womstarave

[womstarave]

i actually enjoyed the no smut and it was really funny too, i loved it😭

Don't Lean On Me

► 𝙿𝚊𝚒𝚛𝚒𝚗𝚐 - tsundere!outcast!Yeosang x semi-stalker!reader◄ ► 𝙶𝚎𝚗𝚛𝚎/𝙰𝚄 - enemies-to-lovers trope, college au, heavy angst, tooth-rotting fluff, Yeosang is kind of an !asshole (in the beginning), reader fell first but he fell harder, reader is down bad for Yeosang, reader has !stalker tendencies, abandonment in the rain, eventual make up, happy ending ◄ ► 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐/𝚆𝚊𝚛𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐 - PG-14+, kissing scene, suggestive content, threats (both harmful and non-harmful), scene where Yeosang holds your arm to kick you out, mentions of a car accident (non-graphic), no smut this time, sorry folks ◄ ► 𝚆𝚘𝚛𝚍 𝙲𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚝 - 27K words (I can explain) ◄ ► 𝚂𝚢𝚗𝚘𝚙𝚜𝚒𝚜 - Yeosang was the campus freak. An outcast, to say the least. He didn't particularly do anything, well, except cover his face with a black mask and avoid everybody. He never takes it off and nobody has ever seen his face before. But you couldn't help but fall for him, so you follow him every single time. You get caught, however, and he threatens you to stay away from him. To add salt to the injury, you were both partnered for a project that will exempt you from the subject next semester. ◄ ► 𝙽𝚘𝚝𝚎𝚜 - It wasn't my intention to make this as long as it is, and again, easygoing fluff without any drama and plot-twists aren't my thing, but I really wanted to start 2025 with something sweet! Stay tuned because the next one will be EXTREMELY TOXIC. Enjoy! Title from Amity Affliction. Also, I'm really sick right now, bear with me. ◄ ► 𝚃𝚊𝚐𝚕𝚒𝚜𝚝 - @0rangemilk @ginger-mingi @ruubyrubes @oddracha @jaytheatiny @roxannecos @juicy-red @cheolliehugs @sunnysidesins @jjongbearshoney @midnightrebel1028 ◄

► 𝙽𝚎𝚝s - @dove-net @keopihaus @othersideoutlawsnetwork @illusionnet @pirateeznet @hiraya-m ◄

It was him, yet again. It was very easy to spot him as he always took the same spot where he was now at the far corner of the classroom where everybody blatantly ignored him.

But not you though. You could have burned a hole in this guy's skull with how hard you stared at him every single time you saw him. How could you not? The way his rigid posture sat straight as he tuned the world out with his earphones and the way his uninterested eyes would scan all over the room definitely caught your eye.

And you knew that everybody in the classroom did, too. But that was the thing, you weren't aloof to all the sneers and snickers they sent towards his direction.

You tapped the person sitting to your left, who just also happened to be one of your best friends, without leaving your sights on the mysterious man that already made your heart beat unknowingly. "Hey, who's that again?"

You've been in this particular class, the only class you share, but for some reason, you never did bother to ask. Until now.

Yunho glances behind him with a small frown, following the direction of where your index finger was pointing. His brows tilt up ever so slightly as you watch his face slowly transform into that of recognition.

"Kang Yeosang," he said more as a surprise rather than a statement. He turns back to look at you inquisitively. "Very smart, like, really damn smart, but that's not what a lot of people notice at first."

He was right. You were guilty as charged, though, because it was also the reason why you were suddenly interested in him. 

Yeosang wore a face mask that covered half of his face from his nose to his chin. Now, that part wasn't odd in itself since everybody wore them once in a while for whatever reason that may be, but Yeosang wore them literally everywhere. He never took them off, at least, from what you know.

But that was definitely the case. Again, you weren't privy to all the whispers that travelled in the air. Kang Yeosang literally never took the mask off of his face. Nobody has ever seen what the guy looked like.

"Don't be judgmental," you murmured, forcing your head to look forward. "Nobody does something different for absolutely no reason at all." 

"I didn't say anything like that," Yunho counters. "I do admit that it is a bit odd, but hey, whatever works. I mean, look..."

He dug something out of his coat pocket. A small, compact mirror. You raised a brow at Yunho, but he shrugs it off. He angled the mirror and then you realized what he was doing. 

"He's already good-looking with that thing on," Yunho muttered under his breath as you both looked at Yeosang. "Imagine if he actually took that mask off? There will be no pussy left for everyone in this building."

You rolled your eyes dramatically, ignoring his crass statement. What Yunho said, though, you couldn't refute. 

Even with the face mask covering almost the majority of his face, there was no denying that Yeosang was simply gorgeous. There was an itch for you to do something about the mask, but you willed them to go away. It was none of your business.

A pang hits your chest. You suddenly felt bad for him, people were just mean for no definitive reason. It shouldn't have mattered that Yeosang wanted to wear a mask, hell, even if he wore a chicken mascot costume it was still none of everybody's business.

But alas. Such is human nature.

Your class had started, and as usual, it was a bore. Still, you had to endure it for your grades. You couldn't concentrate, however, as your mind kept drifting to the mysterious man who sat at the far corner of the classroom away from prying eyes.

Against your better judgment, you swiveled your head once more to take a good look at him, but your heart leapt to your throat when you made eye contact with him. That meant he was already looking in your direction before you turned.

Your jaw slackened, your heart beating faster and faster you were afraid it would jump out of your ribcage, as you stared into his eyes. They were captivating. It was the understatement of the century. His eyes were a home for a tempest that raged without end.

In short, they were dead. At some point, you were sure that his eyes were once alive because despite the horrors that hid them, you could tell he had a beautiful soul.

A soul that you didn't have anymore, for the moment that your eyes had met his, it was over. He stole it from you just as fast as the light from his eyes was stolen, as well.

Dryness covered your entire mouth when his brow raised in question, challenging you to say something to him since you were staring at him so intently.

You were rendered frozen in your seat. Not for nothing, but he must be doing something to hypnotize you. Yeah, that was probably it, why else would you stay unmoving for the favour of staring at him?

Yeosang tilted his head in curiosity, leaning back on his seat to get comfortable. He crossed his arms, eyes not breaking their contact with yours. You gulped, even his gestures were so fascinating.

There was a world within this classroom, and the only inhabitants in it were you and Yeosang. Forget your class, it was too late for that because you'd already lost yourself in this. Nobody paid attention to the both of you, and nobody had noticed what was going on.

Not even when everybody had started standing up since class was over had distracted you. The one that did, however, was Yunho's hand wrapping around your arm to catch your attention.

You jumped at the touch, your head snapping quickly in his direction, eyes widened, clearly startled. Yunho chuckled in amusement at your expression. "You okay? You seemed pretty lost there," he asked.

You robotically turned back to answer Yunho. "Yeah, I'm good," you cleared your throat. "Just a bit distracted, boring class, you know?"

"Right," Yunho drawled, eyes squinting in suspicion. He stood up, his sling bag on his shoulder already, and smoothly picked up your tote that contained all your notes. "Anyhow. Jongho's already ordered us some brunch, we have to go."

You nodded, hesitantly standing up, watching as Yunho went ahead to the exit and started talking to another friend of his. 

When you looked back at that particular spot, you were disheartened to see that Yeosang was already gone. 

Your eyes tried to find the masked brunette, but no such luck. He must have rushed out the moment you looked away.

What a shame, you thought with an internal pout. You followed Yunho with an aimless gait through the halls, you trusted him to get you to where you needed to go because you didn't even trust yourself right now.

You've always been a sucker for the eccentric. While you didn't think Yeosang was one per se, you were just so sick of normalcy. It wasn't entirely for you.

"Right on time, lazy bums," Jongho smirked, standing up as you and Yunho both approached him. "I already paid for everything---don't even fucking think about it."

Yunho paused, mouth agape, the hand that held his wallet frozen in the air. "C'mon, dude. You can't do this every time. We just want to hang out."

Jongho sat back down, gesturing for the both of you to sit down. "Yeah, well, I asked for it, so it's a no-brainer, yes?"

Yunho rolled his eyes, temporarily accepting defeat, because you all knew none of you would win. Choi Jongho was born into a family that had conglomerates everywhere. He had the money, which you and Yunho had made clear that you didn't need, but he did it, anyway.

You inched a bit closer to Jongho and gave him a small peck on his cheeks. "Thanks, baby bear. But Yunho's right. We can pay for our stuff."

Jongho jokingly pushed you away, making you giggle softly. He hastily rubbed the spot you pecked. "Don't ever do that again," he groaned. "And stop being an ungrateful brat. I swear I need new friends."

You smiled a bit, your lips pursed with the action. It didn't reach your eyes, Jongho noticed. He raised a brow to stare at Yunho, who only shrugged.

You realized that the three of you were in a cafe near the college grounds. The ambience was nice, but you couldn't remember the last time where you just sat like this, enjoying the moment with your friends, and simply just passing time.

Your appetite had long gone, but you couldn't tell Jongho that since he'd paid for the food. You had to at least pretend you were enjoying it. At least, they were. Yunho chuckled at something Jongho said, but you didn't even hear it.'

A certain brunette flashed in your mind again. You paused, suddenly wondering what he was doing. You knew it was ridiculous, Yeosang probably thought you were ridiculous. 

You wanted to dig a hole and bury yourself in it, cringing at the fact that Yeosang probably thought that you were staring at him just to make fun of him, just like the rest. You weren't, though, but he possibly can't know that.

You were pulled out of your thoughts when the distinct clatter of utensils hit your ears. It was Jongho's doing, you frowned in confusion. 

"Alright, what the hell is wrong with you?" Jongho demanded, leaning his elbow on the table, twisting his body so he'd face you. "You've been so distracted the entire time and it's getting on my nerves."

You glanced up at him and stared at him for a good couple of seconds. He wasn't going to yield, so you couldn't keep the eye contact you started. It suddenly got difficult to swallow with how dry your throat was getting. 

"I'm just tired," you mumbled, sounding unconvincing even to yourself. "Don't worry about it."

"Oh, cut the crap," Yunho interjected, cluttering his utensils in a comical way that you couldn't help but let out a real smile. "I know why you're like this. It's Kang Yeosang, isn't it?"

You blushed beet red. You supposed to weren't discreet. The intensity in which your scalp tingles at the mention of his name was electrifying, the sensation akin to when you met eyes with each other prior to this.

Jongho's brows reached his hairline, his expression turning from curious to one of complete surprise. "Yeosang? Flower-looking dude, pale skin, about 'ye height?" Jongho gestured to his own height. "How do you know him?"

You and Yunho looked at each other before turning to Jongho in suspicion. "I have one class with him," you admitted.

"How do you know him?" Yunho questioned with scrutiny. 

Jongho hesitated. He looked between you and Yunho repeatedly for what seemed like a while, before he sighed deeply, looking around him cautiously. When he saw that the coast was clear, he leaned closer. You and Yunho did the same.

"You didn't hear this from me," he said, eyes hard. "Yeosang is, was, my childhood friend. Remember my friend that I always spoke about that always had my back?"

It clicked, and you nodded. "That's him? But you said he's very funny and talkative," you blurted out without thinking. You were genuinely flabbergasted. 

Jongho drummed his fingers on the table, a faraway look in his eyes present before he spoke again. "Something happened that made him the way he is now," he cryptically explained. "It's not my story to tell. All I ask is to not judge him."

You elbowed Yunho and sassed at him with your eyes, signaling with the 'I-told-you-so' look. He smirked, pushing your elbow away.

"Little Miss Y/N here," Yunho sarcastically gestured to you, then ruffled your hair messily. "Has a bit of a crush with your childhood friend---"

"Shut up, I definitely do not," you hissed, though it didn't have any bite to it. You didn't know it was possible for your face to be redder than it already was, but here you were.

Just then, Jongho started laughing, his voice bellowing loudly in the small confines of the cafe, earning your table stares, but you couldn't care less. His gummy smile had always been contagious, so it was no surprise when you started laughing along with him.

"It's such a shame, though," Jongho chuckled away the remnants of his laughter with a small shake of his head. "I know Yeosang even though we fell apart. You're definitely his type, down to a T."

Yunho started to laugh but nodded his head in agreement anyway. "I could see that, honestly. Mingi has a thing or two for you."

"No, he doesn't," you rolled your eyes. Song Mingi was the campus crush, and you did have a crush on him before, but that ship had long sailed and it was fleeting anyway. "What makes you say that, though, Jongie?"

"Oh, wouldn't you like to know?" Jongho smirked, playfully teasing you, much to your chagrin. 

You groaned. "Seriously!"

Of course, you weren't going to tell him that you were definitely curious now. You also weren't going to tell him that you were going to use this information to your advantage.

Jongho flicked your forehead lightheartedly. "He likes cute things, plain and simple," he shrugged, side-eyeing you. "That includes potential girlfriends, too."

The mischief in that Cheshire-like smile that was bigger than anything you've ever seen. You were glad he crossed his arms and leaned back on his seat, you didn’t want him in your face.

That didn't mean you weren't going to think about what he said for days, though.

Unfortunately, you hadn't really seen Yeosang anymore after that. 

He didn't attend the once-a-week class the next week, and you couldn't attend the one the following week. You had an unlucky bout of allergy due to the pollen going around campus. All Yunho did that whole day he visited was roll his eyes at your antics.

You were hoping to cross paths with him again, even though you knew you weren't going to talk to him anyway. You just wanted to take one more peek at him before you continued on with your life.

Yeah, totally not creepy. 

"Good morning, Y/N."

You were forced out of your thoughts when a voice from behind you sounded. You were currently in front of the professors' lounge early in the morning.

"Oh! Good morning, Mr. Park, I'm so sorry to disturb you so early in the morning," you bowed deeply in the presence of  your professor. 

"It's quite alright, dear," Park Seonghwa, your professor in that one class you missed, chuckled. You couldn't help but loosen up, he really was your favourite professor and you respected him a lot. 

He opened his briefcase to get out a stack of papers. "I hope everything is fine on your end? Here, take them," he handed them to you.

You nodded, explaining that it was pollen and that it was fine now. "Wonderful," he said. "Regardless, I expect my star student in my class next week. Good day."

"Thank you, Professor," you bowed one more time before you completely walked away.

There were more notes than expected, you realized that as you riffled through them, skimming just to get a general gist from where you stopped and where you should begin to catch up.

You weren't one of those students that studied a lot, but you also weren't careless about your grades. You just wanted to get by, and you were just lucky that all your professors remember and like you well enough to give you some notes when you miss some classes.

You sighed, contemplating what to do. With all these notes, you had to concentrate on them for a day or two. Final was coming and you didn't have enough time to study the following days. 

To the library it is, you decided. Your feet were already taking you to that sacred place that you love so much. And when you entered, your mood instantly lifted.

You loved how empty the space was, yet it was extensive in nature. It was the perfect labyrinth to get trapped in; once you get inside the minds of great authors or whatnot and relive the adventures, the sorrow, and the laughter imprinted and immortalized by the writings in the pages of their books, you can never leave.

It was perfect. You approached the front desk so you could greet your friend who was working part-time to sustain his scholarship. He didn't notice you at first, but when he did, he was all smiles. 

"Well, look who we have here," he smirked, closing the book he, himself, held in his hand. "Good to see you, Y/N."

You chuckled softly so as to not break the peace. "Likewise, Kim Hongjoong," you nodded. "I need a couple of books about these for my finals..."

Hongjoong gently took the notes Professor Park gave you and scanned them quickly before doing whatever it was he needed to do on his computer. He wrote a series of numbers on the paper before handing them back to you.

"I put the aisles and shelf numbers on every book you need," he murmured, pointing them out. "Shouldn't be too difficult to find."

"Got it. I appreciate the help, Joong," you thanked him. He nodded and waved you off, dismissing you. You couldn't help but laugh under your breath.

Just like he said, the books weren't too difficult to find, and soon, you found yourself with a stack of them. You were pleased when you found that your favourite spot was free, and so, you studied away.

You lost yourself in the process, like you always did when you started, but along the way, there was an itch in your neck that was begging to be noticed.

Subconsciously, you looked up, and your world stopped along with your heart.

Yeosang, too, was busying himself with a stack of his own books. Of course, he still wore that mask on his face, but there was something different about him from the last time you had seen him.

His hair was styled up in a way that looked effortlessly good, his forehead was a bit exposed and you were able to see his eyes clearly this time even though his nose was deep in the book he held. 

He was a couple of tables away from you, isolated from everybody at the very end of the library where you knew not a lot of people went. It reminded you of the way he sat down in your class.

His presence just engulfed you, and you didn't know why. The grip you had on your book would've been suffocating had it been alive, you couldn't stop staring at Yeosang.

His brown cashmere coat perfectly complemented his physique; it made him look very masculine. His cropped out hair fitted him well, and the way he carried himself interested you so much.

The way his fingers moved to turn the pages of his book mesmerized you, brought you into a world where you wondered what it would feel like if that hand was holding yours. He wasn't even doing anything but sit down like someone would in a library, yet he simply exuded grace and elegance.

You knew then and there, that this wasn't just a fleeting crush on a man that doesn't even know your name.

Ever since then, you made an effort to go the library every single day just to peek a glance on Yeosang. Whether it was hours or minutes to an end, you didn't mind. Of course, you didn't want to be borderline creepy, there were times where you actually needed to study and so many times where you didn't realize that he had left because you were so engrossed with your work.

His schedule was simple, you learned that he'd go to the library every other day either to just read or actually study. You took note of the books he read, they were way too advanced for you. Yunho wasn't lying - this man was intelligent.

Your little crush soon turned into genuine admiration. If one would look hard enough, it was easy to say that Yeosang was one of the most hardworking people you've had the pleasure to go to university with.

And just like you, he'd get lost in his world once he got too deep, and it was when you'd take the time to study him just a bit more.

You had memorized the notes that you were given from front to back, word per word, punctuation per punctuation, but you still went to the library anyway.

There were times where Yeosang would subconsciously look forward, he would take a break from reading and stretch his neck, and you'd panic and look down, but you were sure he didn't notice you. You sure hoped he didn't, the blush on your cheeks could be seen miles away.

Hongjoong raised his brow one day when you handed him the book that you wanted to check out for a week, and you couldn't look him straight in the eye.

"The Art Of War?" Hongjoong blurted out incredulously. He sheepishly looked down when a couple of people turned to our direction with a small glare. You bit your lip when he kept staring at the book.

He leaned forward, his voice hushed, his eyes glowing with mirth, but with suspicion nonetheless. "I didn't know you were interested in Machiavellian beliefs and principles."

You weren't. In fact, you didn't give a crap or two about it. Yunho snatched the book from Hongjoong and flipped a couple of pages. "Damn, I can't even understand this," he chortled, giving the book back. "You're really gonna read this?"

You rolled your eyes in half-annoyance to cover up how red the tips of your ears were. You saw Yeosang reading the book for days before he returned it, and you just wanted to see what kind of books he read.

You wanted to know what ran in Yeosang's head as he sat there and read it and maybe, just maybe, you were absolutely insane in the head because you liked him a bit too much.

"Is it so hard to believe that I'm interested in it? Geez," you murmured, grabbing the book and hastily chucking in your purse as if doing so would make Hongjoong and Yunho forget that it existed.

"Yes," they both answered in unison.

You scoffed, offended that they actually thought so, but you couldn't really get mad at them, because it was truly unbecoming of you. You weren't really interested in how the world worked, you were a hopeless romantic, and you wanted to stay that way for a while.

"Maybe it's in the air, someone just returned that book yesterday after a week," Hongjoong scoffed, grabbing a book that you just logged into to check out anything. "Yeah, that guy, Kang Yeosang. Cool guy, a bit withdrawn, kinda weird, but cool regardless."

Yunho's eyes almost popped out of its sockets and he turned to you with the most shit-eating grin on his face. He was about to open his mouth, but before he could, you quickly reached up and covered it. It was a challenge since Yunho was a giant, but you didn't want him tattling. You wouldn't hear the end of it.

"Ah, we have classes in a couple of minutes," you laughed nervously, stomping on Yunho's foot, making him groan in pain that was muffled by your hand. "Bye, Joong!"

You left, dragging the big Jeong Yunho comically while Hongjoong watched with his mouth opening and closing repeatedly like a wee little fish.

Yunho forcefully removed your hand from his face the moment you got outside, but it didn't stop him from giving you that mouth-splitting grin that you wanted to wipe off of his face. "I can expla---"

"Oh, no need," he playfully teased in a sing-songy voice. "You're already head over heels for the guy, it's remarkable---"

"Jeong Yunho, I swear to God---"

"I cannot wait to actually tell Jongho, man, I thought you'd give Mingi a chance---"

You turned around to run away from his relentless teasing, you could hear him laughing behind you. You giggled under your breath and usually you'd entertain his teasing, but you were so confused on what you felt for Yeosang lately.

The entire night was spent on you reading the book and as expected, you abhorred it. You crumpled your face in genuine skepticism, did Yeosang truly enjoy this? 

The more you turned the pages, the more pissed you got, suddenly realizing that you were doing this for a man who doesn't even give two shits about you. It was deplorable. 

After a day or two, you decided to return the book. There was no point in keeping it if you weren't interested in it anyway, but you decided to do it later. You'd sit down on your usual spot first.

To your surprise and dismay, Yeosang wasn't sitting in his usual spot. It wasn't really odd, sometimes his schedule did become sporadic, but still, your heart slowed its beating. You already felt a bit down.

But there would have been no need. Suddenly, you felt a presence behind you as you sat down at your usual spot. Before you could turn around and inspect, they leaned down, and you felt hands on your shoulders. They were firm and sure.

Shivers travelled down your spine when a deep, rich voice hit your ear as they whispered. "Machiavelli, huh?"

The voice was muffled with something, like a mask. Heat soaked up your entire face and the tips of your ears. You had forgotten to put the book away and thought it was a great idea to have it out in the open.

Or maybe, you did it on purpose hoping that Yeosang would see and pique his interest.

"Meet me at the blind spot to the left behind the staircase. If you're not there within three minutes, I will sabotage all of your projects until you graduate," he ordered gruffly, his tone gravelly and unpleasant, to be quite frank. "All of them."

A cold bucket of water could have been poured directly on your head without warning and it still wouldn't be able to bring you any type of dread like those words would ever do. It was insane.

You didn't hesitate, haphazardly throwing all your belongings hastily without any sort of order in your purse before sprinting out of the library. Today was not the day to test the validity of the whispered threat.

A record should've been awarded to you with how quick your feet had taken you were Yeosang told you to. At first, you didn't see him, but when you noticed a shadow fleeting in and out at the very corner of the staircase, you knew it was him. It was indeed a blind spot - no one would be able to see him unless they were looking for him.

The moment you stepped in that hidden area, you were roughly slammed against the adjacent wall. To say you were shocked would be an understatement.

Right away, you tried to cradle your head to halt the oncoming nausea from the sheer force, but your hands were also pinned above your head.

"What," you said rather than questioned. "W-What are you doing?"

When your eyes finally focused on what's in front of you, you couldn't help but let out a small gasp. His black mask covered his face well, but never his eyes. God, you hoped not.

You were right all along, his eyes were beautiful, especially this close. You could smell his cologne, too. Heat started to travel from your neck all the way to your cheeks as you tried not to focus on his scent.

"Cut the shit," Yeosang spat, venom coated in every syllable. His hold on your hands tightens to the point of pain. "Stop following me."

Time stopped at that very second. His voice was a lot deeper than you thought. You swallowed, Yeosang's eyes subconsciously trailing down your throat at the motion. "I-I'm not following you," you squeaked out.

"Oh?" Yeosang tilted his head. The movement would have been cute, if he didn't look angry and menacing right now. One of his hands let go to dig into your purse. He grabbed the book you were supposed to return, but couldn't. 

"You don't look like the type to read Machiavellian beliefs, princess," he gritted out. "And I mean that with full offense."

You frowned, thoroughly confused as to why Yeosang was, frankly, acting like an ass towards you. "You're a judgmental one, aren't you? What if I was?"

"Then what's his name?"

You blanched, mouth getting dry from the sudden question. Yeosang's unimpressed glare catches you off guard. You felt your heart cracking a bit.

"I'm not sure," you admitted, voice small, embarrassed to be caught red-handed in a lie. You bit your lip, looking down towards the floor to avoid his indifferent eyes.

For a moment, you both stayed like that - Yeosang pinning you, and you just staying still just to see what he was going to do. And then, he lets go, and puts his hands on either side of you on the wall with a loud thud.

"It's Niccolo," he murmured, bitterness seeping towards his voice. It made your frown grow deeper.

"N-Niccolo?"

Yeosang scoffed, rolling his eyes sarcastically at you. "Yes. Your brain stutters, too?"

That definitely stung. You didn't know what to say but, "W-What?"

"W-What?" Yeosang repeated, voice higher in pitch in an effort to mimic and mock you as if you were a degenerate. It was honestly offensive, but you were too frozen to do anything. 

"No wonder why you're so obvious, this here," he continued, his index finger tapping your temple once. "Doesn't work quite well, doesn't it?"

It was an eloquent way of saying that you were, indeed, stupid. Your manner completely transforms, it becomes rigid against him. You wanted to scoff, who knew that his angelic eyes held this much contempt in them?

Your mouth opens to defend your honour against his insults, but the same index finger touches your lips, effectively shushing you. Warmth automatically spreads through them.

"Ah, ah, ah, you have absolutely no right to talk right now," he interrupted rather rudely, his voice dropping an octave. You forced yourself not to shiver. "I mean it, Y/N. Stop fucking following me. I don't like my privacy invaded."

You couldn't stop the sigh that bubbled up your chest. "I apologize if I made you uncomfortable, but we could have talked this out."

He chuckled, the sound of it dark and devoid of anything that resembled emotions. "You forfeited that right since the first day. You're not as subtle as you think you are, princess."

"Don't call me that," you frowned, your hand sticking out to push his chest away, albeit weakly. "What is your damn problem?" 

"What's my problem?" Yeosang reiterates, his tone taking an angrier and more aggravated tone to it. "My problem is that you are literally tailing me at the library like I'm some sort of circus zoo animal."

He sarcastically chuckled, more to himself than towards you. "But then again, that's what everyone thinks."

You felt your heart breaking a little when he adjusted the mask he was wearing as if doing so would protect him right now when in reality, you were the one in need of protection. Behind the malice in his voice was a hurt so deep, it was impossible to ignore.

His eyes met yours again, and this time, they were ablaze. "Who put you up to this?" Yeosang snarled. "Who fucking told you to watch me? And why? So you and your stupid little friends would have a laugh and go?"

"No, that's not it, I swear," you immediately denied, shaking your head repeatedly to make a point. "I didn't mean for it to look like that, I-I promise you---"

"So why the hell are you following me? Tell me," he demanded. You yelped when he roughly lifted your chin up. "At least give me the decency of looking at me straight in the eye while you tell me why you've been watching me."

"Ow, you're hurting me," you pried his hand off of your face successfully, slightly glaring at him in the process. "It's not like that," you hesitated, gulping once more before continuing. "Is it so hard to believe that someone actually admires you, or something?"

He raised a brow in irritation. "God, you're so full of shit."

He pulls away, jutting one arm out and shoves your shoulder hard - hard enough for it to collide with the wall behind you. You were stunned at his aggression. 

"Stay the hell away from me," he growled, bending down to pick up the backpack he had that you didn't even notice. He started to emerge from the staircase towards the hallways where, surprisingly, no one was. 

He gave you one last glare, a scathing one. "If I catch you again, I won't go easy on you next time. Save your judgment for somebody else."

You scoffed, emerging from the same spot. You inevitably ended up in front of him; the hallways were narrow, unfortunately. You looked up at him, not knowing exactly what to say. It wasn't like you didn't know where he came from, he was probably creeped out by your behaviour.

But you weren't going to tell him that it was because of your crush with him, especially not now that you know he clearly doesn't like you.

"I'm dead serious, Y/N. Stay away from me," he glared. "Now, if you'll kindly fuck off..."

He moves past you, his shoulders deliberately hitting yours, causing you to stagger back a little bit. The only thing you could do from then was to look behind you as you watched him walk away.

You couldn't help but notice how confident his gait was - how sure he was of himself. You shook your head in disbelief, utterly and thoroughly confused, not knowing what to believe at this point.

Tears started to form in the corner of your eyes. The resonating voice of realization in your head made you numb, the mortification slowly trickling down your chest slowly. It tightens as the shame presents itself at the discomfort written on your face.

It wasn’t like he was wrong, because definitely had a valid point. Still, you couldn’t help the cascade of tears that started to fall from your eyes from the direct confrontation.

A thought had suddenly struck your head as you watched him walk away and disappear when he rounded the corner of the hallway - how did he even know your name?

It wouldn’t be the last time you and Yeosang encountered each other. One way or another, you were especially hyper aware of his presence.

You stopped going to the library. You weren’t an idiot, you weren’t going to frequent a place where you know you weren’t wanted. Yeosang, however, made it a point to glare at you every single time your eyes would meet.

That in itself would have been fine, but when he started to purposely bump into your shoulders hard enough to send you reeling backwards, it became a little personal. You certainly didn’t miss his little smirk when he saw you riled up.

You actively avoided him for good. Curse you for being attracted to the eccentric. 

Today was one of those - you sat in your usual seat along with Yunho while Yeosang was in that same isolated spot he liked taking since nobody wanted to be associated with him. It was fine, it wasn’t difficult to ignore him given his little attitude towards you.

”Hey,” Yunho called softly. You raised a brow in question. “You and Yeosang got beef, or something?”

“No, not that I know of,” you frowned. “Why?”

”Because he’s been staring, or rather, shooting daggers at you the moment you sat down. He figured out your weird little habit of watching him, huh?” Yunho smirked, crossing his arms.

You grumbled a little curse in his direction, making him chuckle at your antics. You didn’t doubt what he said, though. Yeosang definitely didn’t like you and you gave him the ammunition to do so.

The commotion died down gradually when the professor entered the classroom and hushed everybody. Soon enough, you were able to tune out the prickling sensation towards the back of your neck you knew came from Yeosang’s stares.

You bunched your brows up, though, when you noticed that your professor wasn’t carrying his usual lecture materials and, instead, had a small box in his hands. It didn’t happen often with college students, but he definitely had everybody’s attention hanging in a thread successfully.

”Good day, everybody,” Professor Choi San greeted with a soft smile, his dimples deepening at the gesture, along with his eyes that laid subdued behind a pair of glasses that made him look undeniably attractive. He shakes the box that he held in one hand while he gestured to the class with the other. “Before the year ends, I’d like everybody to do a project instead of the usual examinations. It’ll be a two-person team effort.”

You automatically turned to your side and bumped your elbows at Yunho, who was already looking at you with a gleeful smile. However, that bubble soon burst when Professor Choi cleared his throat, effectively silencing the room once again. “Your partners will be randomized,” he shook the box once more to prove his point. “I’ve already picked half of the class, random as well, to pick out names inside this box.”

What the hell kind of concept is this? You couldn’t help but grimace on the inside, you knew barely anybody in this class, let alone work with somebody for a project that would determine if you will pass this class or not.

”It’s better than a written exam, yes?” Professor Choi smirked.

It was a bore. You had no interest in doing the project, but you have no choice. Surely, you didn’t want to pick a random name either. When Yunho was called, the little hope you had in partnering with him got shattered when he picked a name that wasn’t yours.

He still technically won the lottery though, because he was partnered up with Mingi. When he got back to the seat, you couldn’t help but chuckle at his excitement and relief when he showed you the paper that held Mingi’s name.

He, too, was worried he’d pick a random name even though he was a bit more extroverted than you were. “You’ll get lucky, too, I’m sure of it,” he patted your shoulders in faux comfort. “My luck extends to friends, you know?”

You rolled your eyes at him. “I can already see this project being a disaster with the two of you being together like this.”

He laughed out loud at your statement, and as if he had jinxed it, your name was suddenly called. Somebody had already picked your name. When you looked towards the front, it was by this girl you recalled seeing in multiple of your classes.

You offered her a small smile, one she returned awkwardly. She seemed nice enough to you and that’s all that mattered to you. Yunho and Jongho had told you before that you had an uncanny way of making someone like you eventually. 

“Kang Yeosang.”

Your breath hitched, deliberately straining your neck to not turn around and look at him as he walked towards the centre of the room with the Professor. 

It wasn’t just you - everybody turned silent as they all stared at the man with that confident shadow behind him. He knew everybody stared and he didn’t care, and you genuinely admired that mentality. If only you could turn back time and actually tell him that instead of watching him like a creep.

But you were pretty sure that you were the only one who stared at him with admiration. Everyone else judged him for hiding his face, and you could have sworn you felt your break a little more at that.

Finally, he puts his head inside the box and quickly pulls it out, the piece of paper in his hand crumpling with how hard he gripped it. You suddenly wished you could see his entire face to know exactly what he’s feeling.

You could hear the snickers behind you, people relieved that they had already picked a partner, or people laughing at him. They were just plain nasty, and you couldn’t take hearing them anymore.

You held your fists tights, they were almost white with how tight you were holding them. You tried tuning them out, focusing on the sight of Yeosang with Professor Choi.

You frowned, something wasn’t right. The way Yeosang’s brows furrowed. Suddenly, he looked up, eyes meeting yours. You froze, not knowing exactly why he was looking at you.

He took one more look at the paper before pocketing it. “I got L/N Y/N,” he said, clear as day, his deep voice resonating all over the vast classroom.

Your brain definitely short-circuited that day and you can’t read the future, but you were sure that this was the exact moment where you were sure that your life would turn upside down and change.

”Are you sure?” Professor Choi asked, confused, amidst all the hushed whispers that resounded all over the room. 

Redness spreads through your cheeks at all the unwanted attention. You turned to Yunho and tapped his arms cautiously “There goes my chance of being normal in school,” you murmured.

He patted your shoulders in comfort. “Professor Choi must’ve accidentally put your name twice without noticing.”

It was a legitimate cause, you’ve thought the very same thing. You couldn’t help but glance at Yeosang once more, and unbelievably, your cheeks became even hotter to the touch. You definitely wouldn’t mind partnering with him for this project.

And that’s exactly what happened. As it turns out, there was only one person left that didn’t have a partner yet. The girl who was partnered with you insisted that they be partnered, instead, and Professor Choi agreed, leaving you and Yeosang together.

You wanted to give him a piece of your mind for how he was treating you for the last few weeks, but that resolve faltered when you noticed Yeosang’s eyes from a distance. He looked hurt, and you knew why. 

He could hide under that glare or pretend that he was indifferent, but it definitely hurt him to be tossed around as if he wasn’t even in the room in the first place.

To add salt to the wound, Professor Choi instructed all partners to be seated together for the rest of the class. Yunho gave you a small peck on the cheek - platonically - before getting up and making his way towards Mingi.

”Can you guys keep that PDA bullshit somewhere else? So disrespectful to the public,” Yeosang murmured, his voice muffled by the mask, plopping down the seat where Yunho once was. “Does your boyfriend know you were stalking me?”

You scoffed, appalled at what he was trying to insinuate. “First of all, Yunho is my best friend—-”

”Yeah, that’s what they all say,” he smirked dirtily, his head swiveling towards you in a mocking move. “Then you find out they’re screwing. Tell me, are you the type of bitch who’ll give it in some random back alleyway? ”

The ringing in your ears became louder and louder, and it took you everything in your soul to not lash out in the middle of class and just grab your purse so you could smack the living daylights out of this guy.

”And what if I am? You sound bitter to me,” you challenged him, keeping your voice to a minimum, just to rile him up. You’d like to think of yourself as kind, but you are definitely not a pushover.

His brow shots up in mild surprise at your statement, clearly not expecting for you to stand up for yourself. His eyes had this unmistakable fire that contained fiery rage, and instead of standing down, you rolled your eyes at him. His eyes squint in response.

He did start this, but you wouldn’t let him finish. He was about to open his mouth and say something but you beat him to it.

”I feel bad for you,” you chuckled without any humour in it. “Nobody has shown you enough love in your life, it seems, and you don’t look like anybody who has ever given any ounce of love towards somebody else.”

Even if you meant what you had said, you immediately regretted saying it to his face directly. You bit your lip to stop the yelp that wanted to escape your throat when he gripped your arm fast.

”You don’t know a thing or two about me, princess,” he hissed, his grip on your arm tightening to a point of constriction. “You think you do, but you don’t.”

He pulled you harshly towards him. “What the hell are you doing?” You hissed back at him.

You tried to pry your arms away, but all that did was make his grip tighter. You looked around you and was displeased when nobody had noticed what was going on. Even Yunho was busy discussing with Mingi from where he was.

”Watch your damn mouth around me,” he warned you, his face dangerously close to your own. “You have no idea what I'm capable of.”

”Oh, sure. Says the guy who has a freaking face mask around his face like a little coward,” you sarcastically rebutted.

A deep chuckle hits your ears before he lets go. Nothing in particular happened after that, except for the contents of the project.

“Whoever does the best will be exempted for the rest of the year on exams and will automatically get an A,” Professor Choi bargained, much to everybody’s surprise. “You better do well.”

Damn it, you cursed internally. This project would be the challenge of a lifetime. Soon enough, class was dismissed, and you were determined to set things with Yeosang.

But apparently, he was, too. As usual, the moment class ended, Yeosang was nowhere to be seen. You were about to march off in annoyance when a hand from seemingly out of nowhere materialized and pulled you back in the now-empty classroom.

”I’ll cut this short,” he cleared his throat, as if that would do anything for you since he sounded muffled anyway. “I’ll do all the work, all you have to do is—-”

”And why would you do that?” You raised a brow in irritation, feeling what little left of your patience ebb away. “I’d have you know that I’m not half-bad in things like these.”

He grimaced, his fingers pinching his nose bridge like you were the one stuck-up one and not him. “That’s not what I’m trying to allude to here,” he sighed exasperatedly, eyes closed in deep thought. 

“Really, Yeosang? You want me to believe that?”

He went rigid, one eye opening to stare at you. You were caught off-guard by how heavy and lidded they were as he stared straight at you, unblinking. Was it something you said?

”Fine,” he muttered after what felt like an eternity. “We could do a solo performance and stuff.”

”Are you kidding me? That’s not how this works, and you know it,” you sarcastically remarked, throwing your hands up in frustration. You never thought you’d meet anybody that could make you lose your mind like this after Jongho, it was incredible. “Do you live alone?”

He squinted his eyes immediately. “Yes,” he dragged out slowly. “Why?”

”Perfect,” you murmured. You quickly dug into your pocket for your phone and handed it to him. ”Here.”

He frowned, staring at your phone as if you were offering him some sort of alien symbiote and was planning to annihilate him. You jutted your phone towards him again even firmer when he didn’t move. “Well?”

“Hold on a minute,” he blurted out, breaking character for just a second. “Why my house? This is your idea, your house should be the available one, not mine.”

“You think I want to get inside the house of somebody that clearly has distaste for me? I think the hell not,” you counteracted. “I don’t live alone. I have two roommates, one of which you accused me of screwing. I would never live it down if they saw you with me.”

”So please,” you continued, pressing the phone on his chest this time. “Take the phone, put your number in, and your house address, please.”

Yeosang snatched your phone rather rudely, glaring at you scathingly before doing as he was told anyway. You internally rolled your eyes at how ridiculous this all was. But at the same time, you were trying not to explode. Despite the circumstance, you couldn’t believe you were getting your crush’s phone number.

“If you show up randomly at my house one day, I will end you,“ he snarled menacingly, tossing your phone callously for you to catch in the air. “I mean it, you better not.”

“You’re not all that,” you scoffed, annoyed that he would just throw your phone like that. “I might turn into an asshole like you if I absorb all the bad juju you seem to be getting from somewhere.”

You didn’t mean to say it like that, and truth be told, you weren’t one to fight fire with fire - stone with boulder. But the things he’s been saying has been setting you off on your rocker, a taste of it wouldn’t hurt him.

Right?

“I wouldn’t say that just yet,” he sneered. “Famous last words, princess. Nobody knows what the future holds, do they?”

You rolled your eyes dramatically at him, opting not to question him when he led you out of the classroom, opening the door for you to go through. “Anyway, we do this my way, or I’m dropping you,” he mustered up, adjusting his mask a bit as we walked.

“I don’t care, honestly, I just want to pass,” you truthfully said. You heard him sigh irritatingly under his breath.”How do you propose we do this, then?”

“Do you have more classes today?” Yeosang asked, brows furrowed from above that mask. You shook your head in denial. He nodded in acknowledgement. “Great. Let’s head to that cafe near here. The sooner we get this over with, the better.”

He began walking faster. You could barely keep up with him, Yeosang was of average height, however, his legs were long, you noticed, while yours were a poor excuse for a pair. 

“Wow,” you whistled. “I’m not even going to question why you hate me this much, but okay.”

He laughed, the baritone timbre of his voice enhancing the quality of that beautiful sound. “I don’t hate you. Hate is quite the word,” he scoffed. “It’s strong. You don’t matter enough to me for me to spend strong emotions on.”

Your steps faltered a bit. It felt like a physical blow to your chest and tendrils started to wrap around your heart, squeezing it bit by bit until it was fully constricting against your ribcage. What he said stung more than you’d like to admit.

You couldn’t concentrate when you got in the cafe and sat down. You realized that it was the same cafe you had brunch in with Jongho and Yunho. What he said was all you could think about was all you could think about, were you really that bad? 

Yeosang sat in front of you, tinkering on his phone and not paying attention to you for the time being. Not that you wanted him to, anyway, because if he did, he’d see the tears that were starting to form in your eyes.

Yeosang stood up, pocketing his phone, and walked away without even telling you, even out of courtesy and respect, and without looking in your direction. Another blow hit your chest then and there.

You took that opportunity to wipe your tears away, lifting your arm so you could use your sleeves to do so. There was no finesse in it, but you didn’t care. You felt ridiculous, but you felt bad for yourself.

Your head sprung up when something was suddenly placed on the table within your line of vision. Your brows shot up ever so slightly when you registered that it was a cup of hot, steaming, delicious chocolate. Your head snapped towards Yeosang, who just tilted his head at you.

“No ‘thank you’? Damn,” he said sarcastically, pulling on his chair and taking his place back in front of you. He leans forward, his eyes piercing straight onto yours. “Drink. I don’t want people thinking I’m abusing you or something, I’m already stigmatized as is.”

”What in the hell are you talking about?” You blurted out, tentatively reaching out, wrapping your hands around the mug. Warmth immediately spreads through them, seeping deep inside you and reaching the deepest creases of your heart. “T-thank you.”

You went rigid, your muscles tightening against your body, when Yeosang’s finger wipes a lone tear on the side of your right eye. When he pulled away, you immediately started to sip on your chocolate, cursing internally when it started to burn on your tongue, but you didn’t relent. It was a sign that you were truly alive and not dreaming at all.

”Good?” Yeosang raised his brow tentatively.

You nodded a little more enthusiastically than you’d expect yourself to do so. “What about you? I-I can get you one, if you’d like.”

“If I really wanted one, I would’ve gotten one, myself,” he scoffed. This time, you ignored how rude he was, but only for today. He lazily pointed at his face. “Plus, I have this stupid mask.”

You bit your lip, pausing before continuing. “Just take it off.”

Your heart started to pound uncontrollably at that aspect You were already infatuated with this brute with that thing on, what more if he actually took it off?

”Don’t push it, princess,” he snorted, a hint of amusement tinged in his voice. You watched as he took out his laptop from his sling bag, setting it down the table before he looked at you once more. “Shall we start?”

You and Yeosang quickly learned a routine that worked for both of your schedules. You you had to up your meetings from once a week to four times a week just so everything was perfect. You both wanted that exception next semester.

Unfortunately for you, your crush with Yeosang worsened the more time you spent with him. He was everything you liked in somebody, and as rude as his attitude and insensitive his mouth was, you could tell that deep down, you knew that he wasn’t a bad person.

And of course, you still don’t know what he looked like; not entirely, anyway. He never slipped and took it off, not once. Whenever he’d drink something, all he had to do was slip the straw from underneath the mask and drink away, or when he ate, he would lift the mask a bit underneath as well.

It bummed you out, but you respected his choice. Besides, it’s just, well, a face. It wasn’t a deal breaker or anything. Call it an added bonus to the enigma that was Kang Yeosang.

You yelped when something hit the top of your head. Your hands immediately found their place on your scalp, frowning and giving Yeosang a small glare for having the audacity to hit you.

“Don’t look at me like that,” he snapped, setting down the book he used to bonk your head on his lap before he crossed his arms and glared at you. “Were you even paying attention to what I was saying?”

”O-Of course I was,” you said without thinking.

“Oh? What did I say, then?”

”That I’m the bestest partner ever and that you were going to treat me for some ice cream after this?” You peered at him, exaggerating your actions because you knew that would agitate him.

“Yeah, that’s what I fucking thought,” he sneered, moving to grab the book again but stopping midway to take a breathe to prevent himself from potentially committing a crime.

You giggled, covering your mouth with your palms to stop the loud snorts that made you look unlady-like. “Did I hear that right? Goody two-shoes, Kang Yeosang, cursing like a sailor?”

“Yes, because you are the most irritating person I’ve had the displeasure of ever meeting,” he declared dryly. “What are you going to fucking do about it?”

This time, you didn’t even bother to cover your mouth at all and just let loose. Your laugh made your belly hurt, but it made your heart soar. You forgot the last time you just laughed and didn’t care.

”Keep it down, you’re attracting unwanted attention,” he hissed, but it didn’t have that usual intensity in it, as he looked around cautiously before he stared down the floor like he always did.

The both of you were in the campus cafeteria. You weren’t in the mood to go back to that cafe, and Yeosang wasn’t feeling it either, so the cafeteria was the only option left to go.

You weren’t privy to all the stares that were being sent in your direction, not entirely oblivious of what they’re all thinking. But mostly, they were wondering what was funny, especially because it was Yeosang with you.

”Hey,” you softly called out. He didn't meet your eye, but he nodded slightly to signify that he was listening to you. 

You tapped on his hand with your finger once before pulling away. That got his attention and he finally looked at you. “Don’t mind them, they’re idiots,” you reassured. “I think you’re really cool.”

He smirked, tilting his head in curiosity. “You don’t know squat about me, that’s some high-praise for someone who’s practically a stranger to you, little princess.”

Little princess. You swallowed the blush that threatened to warm your cheeks. “I already know what I need the most,” you shrugged, sincerity coating your voice. “You’re literally the smartest person I know, seriously, how do you do it? And I like your mentality, fuck all these people, you know?”

He stayed silent. Usually, you’d hear an insult or two from him by now, but all he did was stare at you intently, his eyes getting shrouded by an emotion you couldn’t exactly pinpoint. It wasn’t malice, and it definitely wasn’t acknowledgement, but you found that you didn’t mind this look on Yeosang. He looked freer this way.

“You remind me of someone,” he suddenly spoke up. Your curiosity peaked with how far away he suddenly looked. “He was the only one who was more annoying than you, and that’s saying a lot, if you could believe it.”

He sounded so nostalgic, and you were savouring this. If he wasn’t being an asshole, he’d have a point most of the time, because he was right, you knew virtually nothing about him. It wasn’t always where Yeosang would divulge in his personal life with you or in general.

“I’ll take that as a compliment,” you remarked, making him roll his eyes so far back in his head, you were surprised they didn’t get stuck in there. “Anyway, is he your friend?”

“The bestest,”  he immediately answered, sighing afterwads. You pursed your lips,  you knew that he didn’t mean to do so.

You hesitated for a bit in fear of saying something you knew he wouldn’t like. Yeosang was what you would describe as a ticking time-bomb - you just never knew what would set him off. “Did something happen between you and him?”

He seemed to realize that he was oversharing. Much to your dismay, his eyes immediately hardened, his eyes brewing a storm that permanently seemed to cause his mind turbulence.

“Anyway,” he cleared his throat, changing the topic like a tidal wave that knew no consistency. It matched that of his personality so well. “I don’t have any classes for the next few days. I got exempted from all of them.”

You scoffed in awe and disbelief before you could stop yourself. It certainly earned you a nasty glare from him. Of course, you thought. This man was literally a genius. Something tells you that boredom is the biggest reason why he hasn’t gotten himself exempted from the rest of his classes.

“What are you trying to tell me? Are you perhaps,” you smirked as nasty as he was glaring at you. “Are you perhaps telling me that you’re going to miss me?”

You were kidding - well, mostly, anyway. As expected, he growled and pushed your shoulder roughly in an attempt to wake you up from your delusional thoughts.

”I’ll miss my peace of mind, that’s what,” he rolled his eyes. “Can you be for damn real for once in your miserable life? I really want to get this stupid project done.”

For some reason, that response brought you relief more than the usual sting you’d feel in your chest. You’ve spent enough time with Yeosang to know that he didn’t mean what he said eight out of ten times. The bar was that low. But the truth was, you knew you’d malfunction if he said that he would miss you.

“Do you still have the address that I gave you?” Yeosang questioned gruffly. He was in the process of putting away all his class notes in that stylish sling bag he always had on him. 

You nodded. “I do. But wait, where are you going?”

He raised a brow. “You’re not my keeper,” he clicked his tongue, standing up and adjusting the bag on his shoulder across his chest. “I’m going home, if you must know. I need to meditate and ask the Lord for some patience for when you go to my house this week.”

You blinked, eyes widened owlishly, repeating the action over and over again just so you were sure you heard him right. Yeah, you were definitely malfunctioning as is.

”I’ll text you the details,” he turned around and began to walk away, leaving you to your seat alone - nobody wanted to sit with you and Yeosang - for your thoughts to wander and go haywire.

Sputtering, you stood up and called to him, ignoring the odd looks you received from the students around. “A-Are you sure?“

He paused from walking, not bothering to turn around. He raised his hand and waved from behind. “Bye, Y/N.”

You were dazed the entire day, not being able to concentrate on the rest of your class, your heart doing somersaults in your chest that felt too giddy for you to relax. Excitement rolled off of you in waves and all you could do was imagine what Yeosang would be like in the comfort of his own house.

But the first thing you thought of was his face. Would he remove the mask? Surely, it gets stuffy and musty wearing it the entire day, and plus, you knew how uncomfortable it could get the longer you wore it, not to mention how it could clog your skin.

Of course, the thought did cross your mind once or twice - was he wearing it because he has something to hide? You always mentally slapped yourself whenever this would cross your mind, everybody was judgmental to a certain extent, but you tried your damned hardest to not consciously do it and make an effort to always remind yourself that it isn’t good to judge people because they all have their own stories.

However, the longer you thought of this, you knew for a fact that you wouldn’t care what was under that mask. Over the month and a couple of weeks, you have come to truly enjoy Yeosang’s company a lot, regardless if he felt the same or not.

You received the awaited text the following night. A laugh bubbled up from your chest when you opened the message like a child opening up presents during Christmas. You found it adorable that his personality also seeped in through his texts. 

‘Tomorrow. Three in the afternoon. Bring your laptop, but no food since I will provide it. Be on your best behaviour, I have a dog I will not hesitate to sic on you.’

“Wow,” Yunho whistled the next day, tossing the phone back at you after reading the text message with a small chuckle. “What a douchebag.”

You replied with a dry chuckle of your own, lifting a dress you snatched from your dresser, hanger still attached and all, and laid it across the bed, beside the area where Yunho was currently sitting down. He stared at the black dress with a scoff.

”Girl, this is a study session, not a funeral,” he chortled. “Then again, if he actually has a dog, it might as well be.”

A shiver passed through you, but you gave him a stern look, anyway. “Quiet, you,” you hissed. “I don’t fucking know what to wear, I don’t want to look like a bum, but I don’t want to try too hard, either!”

“Are you trying to do that project, stupid, by the way, or are you trying to get laid?” Jongho blurted out bluntly from across Yunho, lifting the dress and inspecting it. “If you’re going for the latter, this isn’t the way to go.”

You blushed furiously, slapping your cheeks to conceal the fact, but it was already too late. You loved these two to death, but sometimes, you were just ready to not be roommates with them anymore when they both made fun of you.

“Choi Jongho, I will end you,” you seethed.

He raised his hands defensively in surrender. “Relax, tiger. Just go for a white shirt and some jeans, it’s comfortable and effective. I can tell you right now, he literally wouldn’t give a shit.”

He made it a point to raid your closet himself. “In fact,” he continued, yelping a bit when he suddenly lifted your bra and tossed it like it was bacterial. “He definitely won’t notice, trust me.”

You were mortified, but so was Yunho when said bra landed on his lap. He shrugged it off like it, too, was infectious. “Goddamn it, Y/N, clean your fucking closet,” he groaned. “But I agree. He has that thing literally on his face 24/7, I highly doubt he’ll notice anything else.”

“Here. I got this for you on your birthday, it’s high time you wear it now,” Jongho haphazardly tossed some clothes directly on your face callously. “Hurry up, it’s almost three. He won’t let you in if you’re late.”

”That’s comforting,” you remarked sarcastically. 

Luckily, in your apartment, there was a walk-in closet - perks of living with an affluent roommate like Jongho - and so, you walked in there to change in your own privacy, but you didn’t shut the door so you could still talk to the both of them as you changed. 

You noticed that Jongho had, indeed, given you a simple white shirt and some jeans, but he also handed you the hoodie he had given you. With that, you began to undress and change.

”How’s your project coming along, Yun?” You asked to fill in the silence.

”Good, actually. Mingi is really good at these things,” Yunho answered cheerfully. “We’ve decided to just do a short dance number, he’ll do a remix and I’ll choreograph for us.”

“Mingi dances?” Jongho asked in surprise. 

“Oh, I didn’t tell you guys? Mingi and I used to go to the same dance school before he moved away during high school,” he explained. “This isn’t the first time we’ve worked together, so it helps, you know?”

You were happy for Yunho, and if you were honest, even though Yeosang and you haven’t decided on what to do yet, you were pretty content in being his partner. You paused, however, a line of thought suddenly crossed your mind.

“Hey, Jjong?”

“Here,” the latter answered.

You bit your bottom lip, not really sure how to articulate the thoughts plaguing your mind into coherent words. “Do you have any idea if Yeosang is also inclined in the arts?”

The arts, meaning dancing and singing. There was a fat pause on the other side of the room. You heard Jongho sigh, the springs of your bed sinking down as he sat on it. “Yeah, he is,” he confirmed. “You’re going to find out the rest by yourself, I’m not willing to divulge the rest.”

“No, that’s all I wanted to know. He literally wouldn’t touch me with a ten-feet poll, let alone tell me the juicy details of his life,” you snorted. “Hell, I don’t even know what the guy looks like.”

Yunho made a sound, likely thinking the same thing as you were at the same time as you heard movement on the bed once more. And he asked the same question you had in your head, “Do you know what he looks like?” 

“Of course, I do,” Jongho said incredulously as if he was offended that he was even asked in the first place, until he realized the reason. “Well—“

”Wait,” you interrupted abruptly. “Don’t tell me. I don’t want to know, I will not disrespect his privacy unless he tells me himself.”

You were tempted, who wouldn’t be? Your big, beaming crush on the guy, alone, was enough for you to be curious to know what’s underneath, but it just felt wrong. 

They both laughed out loud the moment you opened the door to go back in the room. “Damn, you’re down bad,” Yunho slapped his thighs in amusement as he laughed even more. 

“Haha,” your voice dripped with sarcasm. You went past them to grab your things and headed towards the door. “I’ll let you know what happens.”

“Ew, I don’t want to know if you guys end up fucking or something,” Jongho gagged exaggeratingly, making Yunho laugh even harder, his entire body contorting with how hard he was laughing.

When you started driving, your brows shot up in mild surprise when you realized that Yeosang’s place was a lot closer than you thought it was. In fact, if you jacked on the gas, you could get there within ten minutes. 

Your hands gripped on the wheel the more your mind worked on itself - there was a huge possibility that you and Yeosang crossed each other’s path at one point and you just never knew. Heat pools in your tummy, he could have been one of the people you encountered everyday and you would be none the wiser because of the mask.

You arrived in no time, and you parked in an even lesser time. An impressive whistle slipped past your lips, this meant that you were on the better side of the city with how easy the accommodation was. When you looked around, every single building looked more modern and sleeker, too.

And you were right. Your mouth hung open ever so slightly when you realized that you were in the affluent area of the city. By all means, you were fortunate to grow up comfortably, but you could still never afford to live in one of the units where Yeosang apparently resided. What’s more, is that he said he lived alone.

You quickly sent a text to him that you were here and put your phone back in your pockets after that quick text. Shame crept in your bones when you looked at your outfit. Had you known that this was where you’d end up going, you would have worn that black dress because as drab as it was, it was elegant enough to fit the opulent vibe of the place. Soon enough, your phone vibrated.

‘Walk in and go straight to the receptionist. Give them my name and press ‘50’ when she leads you to the elevators. It’ll take you directly inside my unit. Don’t forget to take your filthy shoes off.'

You ignored the last statement, your jaw slacking further when you read the message over and over again. Who the hell does that? Geez, you thought incredulously, who the hell has a unit literally connected to the elevators?

But you followed his instructions, anyway. And in no time, the receptionist was leading towards said elevators. She gave you a kind smile as the doors opened and you bowed back politely. The moment you pressed the number, you leaned your back against the walls of the metal box.

It was the last floor on the very top, it made sense that it led directly in his unit. That also meant he had the penthouse. You felt your body ascend slowly, and the best thing you could do was fix your clothes and your hair to make yourself a bit more presentable.

You started to imagine what Yeosang’s space would look like, but more so, you were just curious on what a penthouse would look like since you’ve never been to one before. You scoffed under your breath, Yeosang did seem the type to live in penthouses.

You weren’t expecting anything in general, but however, the last thing you expected was a small presence waiting for you the moment the elevator dinged and the doors parted. 

There it was, with its head tilted, looking at you curiously as you cautiously stepped in Yeosang’s space. This must be the dog, but it wasn’t just a dog. 

You gulped, knees threatening to buckle under your weight, when the dog started to walk forward and sniff your feet, your legs, back to your feet. It definitely intimidated you as you tried to stay absolutely still. 

Yeosang conveniently forgot to tell you that he had a Great Dane. It was so big that if it stood on two paws, it would tower over you.

But all those worries faded away when it yelped a happy yelp and laid down on its back. Her, you found out soon enough, tail wagged back and forth in glee and excitement as her eyes looked up at you, pleading for you to lean down and give her the belly rubs she so wanted.

Who were you to say no to that? 

“Who’s the good girl?! You are, yes, you are,” you giggled incessantly, your hand rubbing on her sweet tummy while your other hand found its way behind her ear. Her happy barks reached your ears and it prompted you to rub faster.

You completely sat down on the floor and patted your thighs. ”Aww, c’mere, you sweet pup, come…”

Your landlord has strict rules against pets, which was such a shame because Jongho wouldn’t have to leave his Persian to his parents and Yunho wouldn’t be going out every so often to spend time with his Golden Retriever at his brother’s place.

”I see you met Nabi.”

You jumped out, startled at the deep, muffled voice that intruded your well-needed little pup therapy. It also startled the dog, whose head rested on your lap, and you couldn't help but feel bad. You were about to give Yeosang a piece of your mind, but when you turned around, you wanted to whine just like her, maybe a bit worse.

He still wore that mask, but that wasn’t what caught your attention. Yeosang leaned casually against the wall behind you, his hair was completely unstyled, a stark contrast to the prim and proper hair he sported on campus. 

But what really got you was his even more casual outfit, it was dangerous. He wore a body-fitting tank top, and you tried not to drool at his exposed arms and the way they absolutely flexed whenever he moved even a single inch. Your eyes traced the veins that were deliciously spread all throughout his hands all the way to his forearms.

And by God, the way his sweatpants hung alarmingly low against his hip bones. And then, his brow slowly lifted, his eyes shining in mischief. It was your cue to look away in shame, because you knew that he knew.

You didn’t say anything when he leaned down, lifting the mid-ends of his pants as he squatted down. He looked you in the eye as his hands slowly started to rub the back of Nabi’s other ear.

”That’s a good girl,” he whispered.

You didn’t even know what to say, you can’t just assume that he was doing what you thought he was actually doing. You stayed silent, not breaking eye contact with him until he stood back up and walked inside. 

“Go sit on the couch so you can settle down. You can leave your things on the coffee table,” he murmured, Nabi hot on his tail as he walked away.

If it wasn’t even more possible, your jaw dropped when you finally took in the interior of the penthouse. It was the epitome of opulence and luxury. The theme was the classic marbled black-and-white overalls, the space was neat, and if it wasn’t for the crystal chandelier hanging from above you, you would have spent more time just looking around. Not to mention, the grand staircase towards the corner that leads to the second floor. 

Yeosang stood by the kitchenette, tinkering at whatever. It was state-of-the-art, but what really made you fall in love was the huge glass window behind him that overlooked the entire city. You bet it would look stunning during nighttime.

Despite your awe, you couldn’t help but blurt out, ”Who are you?”

”Uh, Kang Yeosang,” he replied absentmindedly. Your lips quivered in an effort to not chuckle, “Anything to drink?”

“Just water,” you replied.

He scoffed, crossing his arms. “I should have specified for you to also bring your brain when you come. You didn’t come all the way here for just water.”

“Fine,” you rolled your eyes in offense. “Coffee, then?”

You expected him to say ‘no’ and tell you to, frankly, to fuck off and be serious, but your heart thumped in your chest when he immediately went to work without saying anything.

You watched him move as he grabbed a cup and set it down. It made sense now, he’s always had this elegance to him when he moved and talked, even though he was rude most of the time, and he had this air of grandeur to him that you couldn’t explain.

Your heart was close to flatlining when he wordlessly gave you the freshly made cup of coffee, and it tasted exactly like the one you always order at the cafe you and him always meet up for the project. 

“Thank you,” you whispered.

He hummed in response, setting himself down on the couch across you and relaxing into it. You took great effort to ignore his arms once more. “I think I have an idea on what to do for the project,” he said, directly to the point. “If you’re okay with it.”

You breath hitched, He’s never wanted your approval before. You stared at him expectantly and waited for him to continue. “Don’t make fun of me,” he blurted out. The way he wrung his hands together gave out his nervousness. “Maybe we could just sing a song together.”

You almost dropped the cup on the table that probably cost more than your life. You were expecting a lot of things, but you weren’t expecting that. But then again, Jongho did say Yeosang was inclined in the arts.

“Why would I make fun of that?” You asked truthfully with genuine confusion. “That sounds like a lovely idea. I was in choir until middle school, it’s good on my end.”

Yeosang didn’t say anything. He stared at you deeply, intently. His eyes held something you’ve never seen before - vulnerability. You gave him a soft, reassuring smile, one you knew he wouldn’t reciprocate, but you did it, anyway.

But he did. Even though you couldn’t see his lips, his eyes squinted at the gesture. Just about when your heart was about to give out, you just had to find out that Yeosang’s eyes smiled with him.

“Can I tell you something?” Yeosang asked, softness coating his voice, his body visibly relaxing even more from where he sat. 

“You can tell me anything,” you chirped up. “What friends are for, right?”

His eyes drooped, hooding ever so slightly before he shook his head, a deep chuckle escaping from his lips. You bit your lip to stop yourself from screaming, you believed this was the first time that he actually produced such a sound without being sarcastic or pretentious.

“You are definitely something, Y/N,” he whispered, more to himself, but you heard it. “Anyway, I know how to sing. Uhm, I was training to be an idol. I did it for years before stopping entirely.”

Your eyes widened in surprise, heat coursing through your veins at the newfound information that you also realized that Yeosang divulged by his own accord. You cleared your throat to cover the blush that spread through your cheeks and ears. You would literally kill anyone and anything to be able to witness Yeosang as an idol.

”Was? Is there a reason why you stopped?” You asked softly, trying to be as respectful as you possibly can so you wouldn’t turn him off. The last thing you wanted was to make him feel like you were trying to intrude.

He paused, sighing deeply and exhaling slowly as he closed his eyes and leaned his back down the couch, almost slouching. “I don’t want to talk about it,” he mumbled.

“Okay,” you conceded, nodding towards him.

He opened one eye, staring at you from his peripheral vision. You tried to ignore how long his lashes were even from where you were. “Just like that? You’re not going to ask me why?”

You were taken aback, beyond confused at what he was insinuating. Your heart bled for this man, just what has he gone through?

”Uhm, no, why should I? It’s disrespectful,” you supplied truthfully. “You’re not obligated to tell me, or anyone in general, anything. You don’t owe me, but I’ll lend you an ear whenever you are ready.”

He stared at you with clouded eyes. The thing with Yeosang that you liked was that he wasn’t a liar - what you see with him is what you get - but this time, you couldn’t decipher what lay beneath those enthralling eyes. The closest would be soul-searching but you’d have to be a fool to actually believe that. 

The longer he stared, the more it morphed, transforming into something you finally understood. They were full of hope, those bright eyes shining and reflecting your faltering gaze. Yeosang was the hope that whispered of the sun. 

He swallowed, his Adam’s apple bobbing vertically at the motion. “Would you like to start over with me?” Yeosang scoots closer and juts his hand out for you to take. “Hi, I’m Kang Yeosang.”

You tilted your head, smiling through your teeth as you took his hand, squeezing it lightly as you shook it. “L/N Y/N.”

Things were never truly the same after that. Yeosang’s mouth, as kissable as it looked, was still brutish and blunt, and you were still that blubbering mess around him whenever he’d get a bit too close for comfort, but everything has changed.

You’d keep coming back to his place and Yeosang would always invite you under the pretense of practicing for the performance, but the two of you always ended up doing something else, instead; something more fun.

There was nothing set in stone, the other day, he showed you his drone collection and even let you fly one of them since you mentioned offhandedly that you’ve never tried to before.

Needless to say, you had no talent for this. You had a heavy hand with no coordination.

”Hey, hey, if you break that, I’ll break you,” he hissed when you accidentally manoeuvered the flying robot by mistake and almost crashed it onto the nearby concrete wall.

”I-I’m sorry,” you blurted out, trying hard to set it down before you damaged it. You knew it cost a pretty penny. The both of you were currently on his balcony, fifty stories high. One wrong move could make it crash all the way down.

He sighed exasperatedly, gesturing for you to come closer. “Come here, I’ll help you.”

You were expecting him to just take the remote control away from you, but you were rendered speechless when he pulled your arm and guided you in front of him. He positioned himself comfortably behind you, his hand grabbing onto yours as he did, indeed, help you with the drone.

”The trick is to be gentle with this button,” he murmured, breath tickling the shell of your ear, his fingers guiding yours on said button.

You were surprised you didn’t disintegrate on the spot. What could have, however, was when you tried to teach Yeosang how to cook the next time. 

You didn’t start out being a good cook, but living with Jongho and Yunho taught you over the years. Yunho could burn water and Jongho always spent an exorbitant amount of money on take-outs that didn’t even offer an ounce of health in them.

“You’re literally doing well,” you cheered him on as he tried to toss the ingredients for the pasta dish you were guiding him to make for lunch. “It’s easy, isn’t it?”

”Sure,” he sneered, startling himself when the oil in the pan began to crackle. “If you’re trying to get food poisoning, it is.”

”Stop setting yourself up for failure,” you rolled your eyes. You nudged a bottle towards him, sliding it against the counter for him to take. “Here, wine. Take it.”

You snorted at the wild and confused look on his face as he tried to sauté some shrimp. “I don’t drink,” he sputtered out.

It was moments like these that prevent you from regretting how bad you two started from before. If you knew you’d always end up here, you would do it all over again without any hesitation. You laughed, grabbing onto his shoulders for support. That was another thing, skinship wasn’t lost on the both of you now.

”No, dummy,” you laughed. “It’s for the pasta. Pour a little to deglaze the pan, it’s good for flavour.”

He still looked confused, but ,nonetheless, still grabbed the bottle. It shouldn’t be difficult, right?

“W-Wait, Yeosang, do it slowly, wait—-“

But it was too late. He had managed to pour half of its content straight onto the pan, causing blue fire to rise up and almost hit both of you in the face. 

“The fuck was that? Was that normal?” Yeosang hissed, tentatively stepping back from the flames.

”Well, no, you were supposed to do it slowly—-”

”Then why didn’t you say that in the first place?”

”Because it was common sense!”

It became a routine, minus the drones - you were definitely going to break them one way or another. It was so easy to fall for this man, but it was also so easy to get your heart broken by the same man.

He even lets you take Nabi out for a walk when he’d get too tired to do so. You took that task proudly and quite seriously.

”Wouldn’t want your dad laying it out on me now,” you’d giggle while giving Nabi the ear rubs you knew she loved.

You get it, though. Nabi was one energetic pup, and on one particular day where she wore you out, you didn’t realize that you’d fallen asleep on the couch, not that Yeosang minded. You knew that he didn’t mind.

Your eyes started to flutter awake, still dazed from that afternoon nap that you took, but then you realized what actually woke you up.

Everything came to you bit by bit. They say that the first thing to come and leave both in life and death was the sense of touch. It was soft, you noticed. And warm. You were laying on soft, pillowy thighs. Dazed as you were, you weren’t an all-rounder idiot; you knew it was Yeosang’s. You smile to yourself, you knew you didn’t fall asleep on his lap earlier.

But you were completely done for when you felt a hand, fingers to be specific, run slowly through your hair over and over again. You wanted to groan in contentment, no wonder Nabi likes rubs.

What truly woke you up, however, was his voice. Shivers traveled your arms all the way to your neck, you didn’t even need to strain your ears; Yeosang was singing. It was the song you’d both decided to perform, but you’d actually never heard him try and sing it before. 

It waa supposed to be a jolly tune, something awe-inspiring, but when it came from him, it sounded almost melancholic akin to a lullaby meant to reminisce rather than fill your heart with merry and joy.

He stopped, so did his fingers. “I know you’re awake,” he mumbled.

You pouted, wanting to hear more. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to fall asleep,” you rose up from his lap, your body protesting from the lack of his warmth, voice hoarse from the prolonged unuse. “How long have I been sleeping on your lap?”

He stared at you like he always did, and you wanted to know why because its intensity was strong, but it was impossible to know without asking, because in truth, you were scared to find out.

“You should just stay for the night,” he mumbled, sitting straight up, his form rigid. “I have a guest room upstairs, and frankly, I feel uncomfortable letting you drive out this late.”

Looking around, it wasn’t difficult to deduce that it was well late into the night even though your mind wasn’t all there yet. You gulped, the offer was too tempting to not consider, but you had to go. You just knew that you weren’t going to sleep properly if you stayed.

Yeosang sighed deeply, standing up straight to face you. “Let me walk you to your car, then.”

You blushed in embarrassment. He must’ve seen the hesitation on your face. “O-Oh, there’s really no need—-”

”Let me walk you to your car, at least,” he repeated, one brow arched, his voice firmer and more resolute. It left you no room for any arguments. “Here.”

A startled ‘oof’ leaves your lips when the hoodie that he threw at you hits you square in the face. He rolled his eyes dramatically when you stared at it as if it were an abomination. He snatched it back harshly.

”God, it’s like taking care of a fucking child with you. Raise your arms,” he clicked his tongue, putting his hoodie on for you, looping your arms carefully in. 

If asking to stay the night wasn’t intimate enough for you, this definitely was. When he was done, he held your hand and started guiding you outside. It would have been funny, since it looked like a parent leading their unruly child, if you didn’t feel like you were going to combust on the spot.

It felt like you were on autopilot. Even when you sat in your car, your muscles felt so rigid and robotic. When he leaned down from the outside, his head peeking at you by the window, his toned arms hanging and leaning on the roof. “Drive safe, yeah?”

”W-what about this?”

You bunched up the hoodie in an attempt to take it off, but he stopped you. “Return it next time,” he mumbled.

You nodded, and he returned it with a curt one, patting the roof of your car before he turned around and jogged back inside. You felt slightly bad, he did give you his hoodie, after all, and he only had a tank top on.

You were completely out of it when you drove home, to the point that you reached your apartment without even realizing it. A silent scream threatens to escape your mouth as you bumped your forehead on the steering wheel, there was a faint blush on your cheeks at everything that happened.

You slept on your crush’s lap, and you even got to wear his hoodie. 

You carefully closed your bedroom door so as not to disturb Jongho and Yunho, who you knew were both sleeping since it was late, and as if it was timed, your phone vibrated in your pockets. You didn’t need to look at the ID to know who it was.

“Did you get home safely?” Yeosang’s comforting voice floods your ears, effectively soothing you and making you smile.

“Mhhm,” you hummed exhaustedly, taking your pants off, but not the hoodie, and plopping down unceremoniously on your bed. “You’re worried about me, the world must be ending soon.”

He mumbled a curse so crass, it made you giggle under your breath. “If you die on the way back, who would be my source of entertainment?” Yeosang deadpanned. A shuffling sound on his end tells you that he’s also laying down on his bed. “I’ll be bored.”

“Wow. Good to know I’m nothing but your source of fun,” you scoffed.

“What can I say? Your misery feeds my fun,” he flatly said. There was a pause on the line before a small sigh sounded. “Princess?”

That nickname will always make your heart sing no matter how much time passes. You hummed in response. “Hmm?”

“Would you like to come over again tomorrow? Forget about the project for a while, I just want to watch a movie with you,” he murmured.

Your heart warmed, you’ve never heard him sound like this before. You’ve made up your mind before he even finished talking. “Only if you let me choose the movie,” you grinned.

”Deal,” he laughed. “I’ll pick you up in the afternoon, sounds good?”

“Sounds good,” you affirmed, kicking your feet up in the air repeatedly. You reckon you resembled a flopping fish out of water right now, but you could care less. You had to bite onto your fist to stop yourself from screaming at the top of your lungs.

He said goodnight and was about to hang up, when you stopped him. “Yeosang.”

He hummed, clearly off guard at the sound of his name. “You have a beautiful voice,” you whispered, referring to his singing when you woke up from your nap. “You would have been a fantastic idol.”

He chuckled. “Good night, princess.”

You hugged your phone close to your chest, a grin stretching out from your lips so wide, your mouth was starting to ache a bit, but the high and ecstasy wasn’t going to go down easily. 

Tonight, sleep came easily to you. Yeosang’s hoodie comforted you, wrapped you in the solace you didn’t know you were missing. His scent gave you the calm that you didn’t mind getting off of.

And tomorrow couldn’t have come any faster. You didn’t tell Jongho and Yunho what you were going to do - the teasing would only get worse from then on - but they did give you odd looks here and there.

“Nice hoodie,” Jongho commented out of the blue while you were waiting for Yeosang. He squints his eyes. “It looks familiar, though. Where’d you buy it?”

“I didn’t buy it,” you replied cryptically, earning you a side-glance from Yunho this time.

He was about to say something when you heard a car engine pull up directly in front  of your apartment. The three of you lived on the first floor, so that perk was there. You jumped up excitedly, hastily picking up your purse before dashing out.

”I’ll see you guys later—-” you tried to say before you got pulled back, a hand tugging your arm backwards.

”Hold the hell on, you have a date?” Yunho blurted out, a flabbergasted look on his face present. “Why am I finding this out just now?”

He gives Jongho a look, and the latter’s eyes narrow even further. Jongho’s brow raises before he stalks towards the door. “Let me size up this fucker,” he sneers, cracking his knuckles loudly.

You wiggled your arm free from Yunho to pull Jongho away from the door so you could get out. Your best friends were protective like that. 

“Get back here,” Jongho called out, opening the door wide so he could chase you down. “You can’t just—-wait.”

You were confused, Jongho’s intimidating aura slowly slips out and gives way to confusion all the way to realization. He blanched, face slightly pale as he stared at the car parked just a couple of metres away from where we stood. 

The car window was already open, and Yeosang was already staring at Jongho. He nods once before closing it once again.

“I should have known,” he mumbled, voice dejected before giving you a tight smile. “Call when you need anything.”

He quickly went inside, followed by Yunho who whispered to you the same thing. “Have fun,” he waved before he closed the door.

Yeosang didn't say anything as you both drove away. It wasn’t an awkward type of silence, but you didn’t have the need to fill it. You wanted to give him some space, the way he gripped the steering wheel repeatedly told you everything you needed to know.

Instead, you spent the entire time chastising yourself because your eyes kept traveling at his hands and his face from your peripheral vision. You chose to look out the window, his veiny arms were distracting you a little too much.

He still had the mask on his face but honestly, you didn’t care less anymore. You couldn’t help but also stare at the way he was dressed. He was in casual wear, nothing special, but the way it emphasized his toned chest yet tiny waist got you sweating even though it was quite cool inside the luxurious car he was driving.

“There’s a drive through nearby. I want to get coffee,” he finally spoke. The softness in his voice made your heart pound, it boosted the already intimate setting of being in a car with him.

”Are you going to let me pay for us?” You asked rhetorically.

”Of course,” he shrugged, and you were about to celebrate until he continued. “Of course not.”

You rolled your eyes, an exasperated groan of frustration leaving your lips. The sound makes Yeosang laugh out loud, and he was still laughing even when the drive through speaker crackled on. Cute. 

This was dangerous. You stared at him as he spoke, his deep voice rumbling. It wasn’t fair that his side profile looked this ethereal, but it also wasn’t fair that your heart was slowly giving in to its demands little by little. He didn’t even need to ask what you wanted, he just knew what you needed.

 “Thank you,” you murmured in gratitude when he handed you your iced latte. You grit your teeth when your hands brushed with his as you tried to grab the cup.

The same hand lands gently on your thigh. You thought it was just him being him and he was absentmindedly doing it, but when the searing heat from his palms didn’t relinquish any relief, you couldn’t help but smirk to hide the growing tingle in between your thighs.

”Getting comfortable there,” you said, trying very, very hard not to look at his veiny, masculine hands. It turned you on to no end.

”Does it bother you?” Yeosang asked, not bothering to look at you since he was actually driving. You gulped, the sight of him driving with one hand increased the tingling sensation down there.

“No,” you lied. “Not at all.”

He hummed, giving your thigh a soft squeeze before he resorted to just drawing random lines on it. He made a small sound of surprise. “You work out?”

You blinked repeatedly, not really understanding what he was saying at first. “What? O-Oh, I used to do gymnastics in high school,” you revealed. The activity has made your thighs and legs toned even though you haven’t done heavy routines in a while.

”Used to? How come?”

“Had a nasty concussion. Plus, college was keeping me busy, anyway.”

“Ah,” he acknowledged with a small smirk. “I knew you hit your head somewhere along the line—-”

You playfully pushed his hand away from your thigh. “You ass.”

He laughed, his deep voice rumbling through the small space of the car, and knocking into your heart, as he pulled in in the familiar section of his apartment that led to the parking lot. 

The appreciation you had for this man knew no bounds. During the walk back to his penthouse, no words needed to be said. This was how it was with him, and you didn’t mind at all. The silence was already telling enough.

“Do you like the hoodie?” Yeosang asked the moment he closed the door behind him. 

“I do,” you admitted, grinning as you rubbed Nabi’s beautiful fur, your fingers trailing to the spot behind her ears you knew brought her joy. “Hey, girl.”

”I see,” he murmured, passing you, but not before patting Nabi’s head, and walked towards the staircase. “Follow me,” he beckoned you over with a small wave of his hand.

”Where to?” You asked, following him anyway, albeit reluctantly. 

As you climbed the stairs, something you’ve never done before, let alone go near since you didn’t want to just invade Yeosang’s privacy, especially since you knew that his personal bedroom was located on the second floor of the penthouse.

You will never get used to how simply gorgeous his space was. If you thought that the first floor where his living room was located was jaw-dropping, the second floor was something out-of-this-world. You were able to see the grand chandelier even closer in this section of the penthouse.

Multiple paintings you knew weren’t just ordinary art hung around the walls, which were made out of opulent marble, the swirls of black and white giving the space an elegance you knew cannot just be replicated and duplicated just because.

”Wow,” you whispered, not able to stop yourself in awe.

”Like what you see?” Yeosang asked, his hand absentmindedly trailing over the walls as you both still walked on, you just followed him wherever he took you.

It didn’t take long, and once again, you were in for a wild ride. Soon, the overall theme of the second floor had changed from something bright, to something just a bit darker. The swirled marble of the walls gave way to something pure black, and that included all the paintings, vase, and furniture that surrounded the area. 

“Is this your room? Wow,” you remarked like a little kid in a candy store.

”No,” he shook his head, opening the door to one of the rooms. “This is just a spare bedroom, really. Nobody’s ever used it, so I just store all my old stuff in here.”

You frowned at him. “Nobody? Somehow I find that hard to believe.”

You weren’t lying when you said that. You truly found it hard to believe that he has never brought anybody in, whether it be just a couple of close friends, or even a past fling or some hookups. The last sting of thoughts brought on a horrible churning that started deep in your gut area.

”Well, considering that you were the first one I’ve ever willingly brought here, I’d say it’s not really difficult to comprehend,” he shrugged. “My, uhm, father used to own this before he bought another unit. He would use it for his business.”

You stayed silent, following him inside the bedroom, not anymore surprised to find a large theater setup occupying most of the space. This was another instance of him slowly giving you bits and pieces of his life willingly, and you wanted so badly to ask more about what his family business was, but you didn’t. You didn’t miss the way his eyes faltered when he mentioned it.

“You’re telling me you’ve never had, I don’t know,” you bit your lip. “Flings, perhaps?”

”Of course I did,” he raised an offended brow. “I’m not a eunuch, and not to brag, but I’m not that bad looking.”

You blushed. Yeosang’s part down there was the last thing you’d ever want to think about.

“But I’ve never brought them here,” he continued cryptically, his voice not leaving you any thoughts of questioning him, so you decided to let it slide. “Anyway, I’m going to get the snacks downstairs, why don’t you pick a movie?”

You nodded, getting to your feet and caught the remote that he had thrown your way with surprising reflexes. “What movies are you into?”

“I don’t give a shit, really,” he mumbled, walking away to your devices, and for once, you were glad he was walking away. The blush on your cheeks would just never leave. 

You took this opportunity to try and calm yourself as much as you possibly could. Your corrupted brain was pushing this as a possible date between you and Yeosang, and luckily, the sentient part of it kept pushing that thought back, but it was getting more and more difficult to do so. How could you not? You were in the comfort of his home, in one of his rooms, and in a place where he’s never brought anyone before. Or so he says.

You weren't surprised to find a sizable selection for the movies. He had a state-of-the-art setup, you’d be pretty surprised if he didn’t. He told you to pick whatever you liked, but you weren’t the insensitive type, you wanted him to have a say in it, too.

You were about to sit down and just wait for him to come back when your foot had accidentally gotten caught on something when you tried to sit on the bed. You tried to see what it was and your brows lifted in surprise when you realized that you had tripped on a small box.

It was conspicuously tucked away underneath the bed, but the edge of it was slightly jutted out. You didn’t think much of it, you figured that Yeosang had stored other things in here. Maybe there were other movie selections that he’d kept in here.

So when you grabbed the box and opened it, you just simply weren’t expecting what you’d find. You were gravely mistaken, there were no movies in there. You wanted to hit yourself, of course there wouldn’t be, DVDs were a thing of the past!

There was a piece of paper on top of everything. You inspected it carefully, and you realized that there was a name in it. A girl’s name. You frowned, that was the name of the girl who was picked last for the project.

You gasped, dropping the piece of paper in realization. Professor Choi did not accidentally put your name twice in that box.

You rummaged more to see what was in the box. Instead, there were photos - multiple of them. Your eyes weren’t completely taking everything in, but there were a myriad of photographs that ranged from professionally printed ones all the way to the wallet-sized polaroid prints. 

You bit your lip. You really shouldn’t be doing this, you were invading Yeosang’s privacy, and whether he said it or not, you knew that he appreciated that you didn’t pry on the things he wasn’t ready to tell you. 

You wanted badly to know more about Yeosang, but you knew this wasn’t the way to go about it. The box needed to go, and it was about to, but then, you spotted a particular photo that got your attention. You glanced at the door, and with a shaky hand, you took that photo to stare at it closer.

The lump in your throat was making it difficult for you to breathe, you were nervous, but there was no going back from this.  That wasn’t all, however, it was mostly the photo in your hand.

There were two people in the photo you were holding, one of which you’ve never seen before. He was quite handsome, you noted. He had the biggest grin on his face that made him look so young, you could barely see his face, that’s how wide he was smiling. Had the situation been different, you would have been fascinated by how much he resembled a fox.

And then, there was Yeosang. In an unfortunate coincidence, you picked up a photo where he was still covering half of his face, but this time, it wasn’t by a mask, it was his hands. This photo must have been taken mid-laughter by somebody else.

You’ve never seen him this happy before. His eyes were also smiling, but one thing that absolutely got you was that when you looked closer, you were pleasantly surprised to find a small birthmark on the side of his face. You realized that he must’ve been covering it lately with makeup.

When you turned the photo around, there was a name in there. Jung Wooyoung. And there was a note in there too, one that you knew to be Yeosang’s handwriting.

There were only four words written on it - I am so sorry.

You swallowed, clearly, you weren’t supposed to see this. You suddenly remembered Jongho’s words from before - something had happened that made him the way he was now.

Shame crept in from the bottom of your heart, you had to pretend that you didn’t see any of this, you had to put the box back the way you found it and forget that you ever saw that picture. But it was too late.

”What the fuck are you doing?”

You gasped, jumping up from where you were seated down, causing the box to fall from your lap, exposing what you were doing, which was basically snooping in on his privacy against his will and without his permission.

The snacks he was carrying was long forgotten on the floor, for he must’ve dropped it after seeing you look through the photos. 

You were devastated, but he looked even more devastated as he stood from where he was standing, staring at you with the most disappointed eyes. That was the worst part - he didn’t seem angry, not at all. He looked absolutely broken, and it was your fault.

“Y-Yeosang,” you called out, voice wavering as you felt your tears slowly forming in your eyes. “I c-can explain, please—-”

He looked down at the floor, completely avoiding eye contact with you. Only his fists were moving, they were actively shaking. He had a lump in his throat that he gulped in, albeit with difficulty.

”How could you do this to me?” Yeosang questioned, his voice laced with an unmistakable hint of pain and hurt. He lifted his head, and  heart felt like it was getting pulled out of your chest. “How could you?”

You tried walking towards, the photos on the floor long forgotten, but he raised a palm to stop you. “Yeosang,” you called out once more, your desperation seeping out from you.

”I thought you were different,” he chuckled bitterly. He pressed the heel of his palms on his eyes as if he was trying to soothe an oncoming migraine. “But it turns out, you were the worst of them all.”

Your lips quivered, of all the things he had said to you, the things he had insulted you with, this one statement stung the most, mainly because you knew it to be true. You shook your head desperately. “You know it’s not like that,” you cried, ashamed because you didn’t want to lose him, not like this. “I am so, so sorry, Yeosang, please forgive me, I know I was wrong, please.”

“Get the fuck out of my house, Y/N,” he commanded venomously, pointing a shaking finger on the direction away from the room. He exhaled a shaky breath. “I never want to see you again.”

That was when your tears started to fall from your eyes. “Don’t say that,” you sobbed. “P-Please don’t say that—“

”Y/N, you know what hurts the most right now?” Yeosang spat out, running a hand on his hair in frustration. “I could handle the daily insults I hear at campus every single day. That’s fine, I don’t owe anyone an explanation, they can say whatever they want.”

”But you,” he gritted his teeth. “I trusted you, more than I’ve ever come to trust myself,” he took a shaky breath in. “I let you in. The thing that hurts me the most is that I’ve come to care for you. I care about you, Y/N. Do you have any idea how much I want to slap myself right now?”

“You’re right, I am so sorry,” your entire body was shaking, your legs almost threatening to give out. “I’m so sorry, Yeosang, please—-”

“You made me look like an idiot,” he declared. “Get out. Please. I won’t tell you again.”

He turned around to walk away, but your impulses took action by suddenly running forward to give Yeosang a hug from behind. He freezes from the action, but all that did was make you hug him tighter.

”Please, don’t push me away, not like this,” your tears were free-falling, soaking his shirt. “I’m begging you, please.”

“Goddamn it, you have no right to do this right now,” he snapped, grabbing your hand to pry it away from himself before grabbing you by the arm and callously dragging you downstairs.

”Yeosang, stop it, stop—-”

“I don’t want to hear it,” he hissed, grabbing onto your arm tighter, so tight you were sure he’d leave marks on it hours from now, dragging you roughly, not caring if you stumbled and tripped along the way.

He pulls on his door, giving you one last look before completely pushing you out so harshly, you fell on the floor of the elevator that will lead you out. You looked up at him, fat tears still rolling down your eyes, and he looked straight at you without any emotion as he pressed down the button.

It still didn’t hit you, not until the elevator doors opened again and you realized that you were back in the parking lot. You walked out with your wobbly legs as far as it could take you before completely breaking down on the nearby wall, slumping down and hugging your legs together as you wailed your heart out.

You shouldn’t have done it. He had every right to be furious with you right now, and there was no repairing this, you had broken his trust and that’s not something that would ever be the same again even if you gained it back. 

The rain from above had begun to mix with your tears and soon enough, you were completely soaked from head to toe. You were so deep in your despair that you didn’t even realize that it had begun raining.

Yeosang’s hoodie did nothing to shield you from the bitter cold. There was only so much your body could take until you had begun shivering, and stupidly, you waited a little thinking that maybe, just maybe, Yeosang would change his mind, especially since you didn’t drive here yourself.

But you knew it was never going to happen. Shaking, you got your phone out and dialed the first number that you saw first. You were sniffling hard, your teeth chattering, sobs broken with hiccups here and there.

“Hello?” Yunho’s sweet and comforting voice came through the line.

“Y-Yunho,” you uttered in broken sobs. “C-Can you please pick me up? I need help.”

“Y/N? Are you okay? Hang on,” his frantic voice asked. “Tell me the address, do not go anywhere. I’m on my way.”

You tried your best to describe the location to him before hanging up. You were glad it was Yunho, his name was eerily close to Yeosang’s in your contact list.

You didn’t notice that car that pulled up directly in front of you, startling yourself when an arm started to help you up, handling you with such care you wanted to cry all over again.

“I got you, I got you,” he reassured, not caring if he got wet by the rain, let alone get his car soaked when you sat inside.

“Can you tell me what happened?” Yunho tried to ask, driving out of the parking lot as soon as he possibly could.

You could only shake your head, the words you wanted to tell him caught in your throat. A hoarse and grating sound from your mouth escaped, instead, your lungs wheezing for air the moment your tears started to fall again. The only thing Yunho could do was be patient, even though the sight of you sobbing your heart out squeezed his own.

It had to be bad, he thought. You were never one to cry, you and Jongho were similar in that aspect while he was the odd one out since he was very easily touched. His grip on the steering wheel tightened, his foot unconsciously stepping on the gas in an attempt to get back to the apartment faster.

He got out of the car in record speed to pound on the apartment door. An annoyed, but confused, Jongho answered. “Go to my car,” he panted. Jongho was about to ask when Yunho cut him off. “It’s Y/N, it’s really bad, Jjong.”

No words need to be said. Jongho moved past him, not even bothering to put on any shoes, as he ran to his car and practically flung the door open. You felt yourself getting carried, but you didn’t bother to look up, your tears blurring your vision, anyway.

“Bathroom,” Yunho said, sighing in concern as he watched Jongho carry you in his arms. “Do it quickly, she was shivering really bad when I picked her up…”

Jongho laid you down on the tub and began filling it with water so you wouldn’t get sick from the rain while Yunho did his best to tuck your hair out of your face as much as possible and helped you out of the hoodie that was weighing your body down. Deep in your heart, you knew that you owe these two forever.

“What the hell happened?” Jongho questioned, the anger in his voice straining his own throat. “I’m going to strangle him. Did he hurt you?”

You didn’t respond, Jongho had to hold you by the shoulders and shake you a bit. “Did he fucking hurt you?”

“Jongho, cut it out, you’re scaring her,” Yunho hissed, prying the latter’s hands off of you in a rare show of his own anger. He kneeled down, gently holding your eyes with his own. “Y/N? I need you to tell us what happened.”

And so you did. It was difficult on your part because you had to retell everything that happened. The longer you talked, the more pitiful you looked - your voice was almost gone, your cheeks sullen and pale, and your eyes rimmed with reddish and purplish hues due to crying. You could see it in their faces that they agreed with the one thing you told them after - that it was, indeed, your fault. 

“You didn’t know, okay?” Jongho held your head firmly. “You didn’t know. I should’ve emphasized how fucked up he is before you approached him. ”

“Do you know what’s in the box?” Yunho asked curiously.

You hesitated before answering. “A name. Jung Wooyoung.”

Jongho froze, his hands on his head automatically pulling away as if you had burned him. It pretty much confirmed what you already had in mind - the name had something to do with why Yeosang was the way he was.

All the anger he had simmered down faster than you realized. “I see,” Jongho sighed. “That makes a lot of sense now. Wooyoung is very, very important to Yeosang.”

“Still,” Yunho murmured. “How important has this guy gotta be for him to kick her out like an asshole?”

“Very important,” Jongho deadpanned. He heaved a weighted sigh, completely slumping down on the floor beside the tub. “Wooyoung is Yeosang’s half-brother.“

That night, you already knew that you weren’t feeling the best. There was so much information in your head that you wanted to completely forget for now, but how would you do that when even your own body was reminding you about what had happened today?

If Yeosang forgave you one day, you knew you’d still live with the guilt as long as you’re alive.

You had to skip your classes the next day. As you suspected - more like expected - you had raging fever and there was no way you would be able to go anyway, Yunho guarded your door like a hound.

There was a lot of berating on his end, and admittedly, while it was fascinating to see, the sweet Jeong Yunho had disappeared for a bit when you heard an earful from him when you wouldn’t drink your medicine or eat the soup he bought.

But you had to go the day after that. There was only so much leeway Professor Park could give you without you having to take more extracurricular activities after. The project alone was daunting enough.

That was another thing. You had to tell him that this project with Yeosang might be over and that there was a huge possibility that you were opting out now before it even started.

Your phone kept vibrating in between your classes. You knew it was Yunho reminding you to take it easy. Or perhaps, it was Jongho looking for you. You were actively avoiding him because you knew you’d receive an earful too. Between the two, he was definitely more overprotective.

It was pointless, you couldn’t concentrate on anything. The pounding in your head just wasn’t going to go away in a day or two, even though you hoped it did, and your entire body just felt hot to the touch, sweat kept leaking out of your pores at an alarming rate.

You missed Yeosang already. You were so used to hanging out with him the moment you set foot on campus, and you could already hear the whispers of why you were alone while Yeosang was nowhere to be seen.

It certainly made you mad. The assumption was that you finally got sick of Yeosang and had finally opened your eyes to how weird he was. It wasn’t true at all, you wanted to scream at everyone to stop being judgmental, but you couldn’t even stand straight without toppling over.

It was getting difficult to not give in to your fever. You were walking through the hallways of the campus to get to your next class, not to actually go, but to tell your next professor that you couldn’t attend and needed to go home. You were at your limit, especially when you accidentally bumped into a girl in your class. Luckily, she wasn’t salty about it and asked you if you were okay, instead.

You wouldn’t get the opportunity to answer her. It all happened so fast, black spots were covering your vision and you felt your muscles going weak. Soon enough,  your body just gave out on you, and you came tumbling over, passing out in this girl’s arms.

Yeosang saw everything. He hadn’t meant to, he usually took a different hallway to go to his classes since this one was very crowded, but something in his mind just kept telling him to pass through this one just once. 

Nothing mattered to him at that moment. He dropped everything - his books, his coffee, his inhibitions, his anger - and ran towards you, not caring at all the stares he was getting. He didn’t care, not anymore, especially not when it came towards you.

He didn’t even realize that Jongho had gotten to you first. His childhood friend was kneeling on the floor, cradling your head to his chest, his hands tapping your cheeks in an attempt to wake you up. He didn’t care about that either.

”Wait, what in God’s name are you doing?” Jongho was thoroughly surprised when Yeosang pushed him away and grabbed your limp body towards himself. He didn’t even have time to register anything when Yeosang began to carry you in one go as if you didn’t weigh anything.

“What does it look like?” Yeosang snapped. “I’m taking her—-”

“Hell no, you are not,” Jongho gritted his teeth, grabbing onto his arm to try and stop him. His explosion had already caught on to the other students, it was embarrassing.

Yeosang tried to shrug off Jongho’s hand, but he didn’t budge and held tighter. “You are the reason she is sick, bastard,” he hissed under his breath. He was about to say more, but he was caught off guard at the way Yeosang glared at him.

There was an intense, burning rage of fire in those eyes. He’s known Yeosang all his life, yet he has never seen this much emotion in his friend’s eyes. He was a no-nonsense type of man, and the magnitude of his feelings written in those eyes, the possessiveness, he had no choice but to let go and let Yeosang carry you away.

White lights penetrated through your eyelids even when they weren’t open. It was odd, you woke up with your eyes completely closed, but that flashing light was completely blinding you. It was unbearable.

You sat up with a groan, your hands clutching your head to soothe the pounding headache that made you want to split your head in half. The last thing you remembered was falling completely into that void, blackness swallowing you into its chasm, and then, nothing.

There was a small moment of panic that set in when you looked around and realized that you had absolutely no idea where you were. The only reason why you knew that you were back in Yeosang’s apartment was that the bed you were lying on smelled exactly like him; that sweet, musky, earthy scent that invaded your olfactory senses always brought heaven down to you.

A sudden ache clustered behind your eyes, the worst kind. It rendered you weak all over again, like your body was suddenly remembering that it was supposed to be sick. And just like that, you fell back asleep. 

But not for long. You felt something on your forehead, something wet and cold, and it was disrupting your well-needed rest. Your lips were getting parted a bit, an unconscious groan slipped past them.

“Yunho,” you mumbled, voice scratchy, throat itchy with how sore it was becoming.

Yeosang scoffed softly, his grip on the thermometre tightens ever so slightly, his other hand holding the cold towel on your forehead in place, hoping your fever would lessen, if not completely go away. 

You kept mumbling your roommates’ names, specifically Yunho’s. He knew of Yunho, he didn’t mind him, but he’d rather not hear it right now. He’ll let it pass for now, you were quite delirious, after all. It wasn’t something he couldn’t fully blame you for, it was him who was to blame for what happened to you.

His brow raised when your hand suddenly held his, the one holding the towel on your forehead. “Yuyu, cold,” you mumbled.

”Think again, princess,” his left eye twitched in annoyance, but he kept his voice as gentle as possible. 

You opened one eye so as to not overwhelm yourself with the light. Ah, how could you forget? You squeezed his hand slightly. “Yeo,” you smiled a little. “Are you still mad at me?”

“I don’t know, you tell me,” he muttered, trying hard not to squeeze your hand back with the small nickname you gave him this time. “You are in my house, in my bed, calling another man’s name. You tell me.”

You frowned when he leaned away. “Keep that thing on,” he pointed at the cloth on your forehead. “I’ll be back to get some soup.”

You didn’t have the heart to tell him that you weren’t in the mood for soup and that you just wanted to go to sleep, so just watched him walk out of the room. You had no right to complain, your heart was getting warmer in your chest at the thought of Yeosang still taking care of you even when he was mad at you.

People don’t know how pure-hearted this man was, but you knew. You knew.

When sleep was about to come knocking towards you once more, Yeosang had to tap your cheeks a bit to wake you up. He wouldn’t admit it, but it did make him feel bad, but you had to eat to replenish your energy.

“Open up,” he lifted the spoon to feed you, himself. “Don’t soil my bed.”

You couldn’t help but chuckle a little, the sound of it a bit grating in your ears. His rough-around-the-edges made you feel reassured, like he was never angry at you in the first place. You’d take this over anything any other day.

With his help, you were able to finish the soup very quickly. Here came the hard part, though - you needed to drink some medicine. Your stomach refused to take anything anymore, you didn’t want to throw up.

”Open your mouth,” Yeosang tried to push the pill in your mouth. “I don't want you dying on me.” 

Your fever is taking over your senses now, delirium setting in, and your vision is doubling. “Can I take it later? I really can’t, it’s too bitter,” you whined.

He frowned. “No. I don’t give a damn, take it before I shove it down your throat.”

He sighed exasperatedly when you weren’t letting up. He wasn’t a complete ass, he would never force you to do something you didn’t want to. 

An idea crosses his head. He bit his bottom lip apprehensively, there was one thing he could do, but was it going to be worth it? 

He took a look at your pitiful state. Drops of sweat trickled down your forehead, yet you were still shivering terribly. Your eyes opened and shut themselves repeatedly, yet they remained unfocused on anything.

One thing was for sure - you were still beautiful. The answer wasn’t lost on him.

He takes his mask off, the one that covered the majority of his face, the one he detested yet swore would never take off. He puts the pill on his tongue, grabs your face, then puts his lips against yours.

You mewled, caught off-guard by the suddenness of it, but you were far too gone to notice and care. This was a dream, it had to be. It was the only way to not lose your mind over this. You were too delirious to see his face, and you didn’t realize that you had already swallowed the pill in the heat of the moment.

He pulled away, giving you a small peck on the nose. He walked towards the door to leave, putting his mask back on in the process, but not before looking back at you one more time. It wasn’t the way he would’ve normally done things, but it helped, didn’t it?

”Yeosang, wait,” you mumbled. It came out as a weak call, but at least he heard you when he turned around. You actually didn’t know if he did, but you just hoped he did.

”What?”

“Whatever it is that’s trapping you in your own mind,” you began. You had no idea what compelled you to say it, your delirium was getting to you, but you just had to say it. “Whatever has happened to you, just know that it wasn’t your fault.”

Yeosang froze, his entire body going rigid. “Go back to sleep,” he muttered, teeth gritted. It wasn’t out of anger, it was out of concern.

”Forgive yourself, please,” you coughed one last time before your head hit the pillow to rest. “And forgive me too…”

He wouldn’t go back to that room until the next day. He clearly had a lot to think about.

He was never truly mad at you, not entirely anyway. Rather, he was terrified. He was utterly scared of you finding out the skeletons in his closet before he told you, and he was close, he was so damn close, but when you found out first, he just couldn’t help the anger that filled his veins at that moment.

You slept for another day straight with Yeosang checking in on you once in a while. He didn’t wake you up, you definitely needed that rest to recuperate your energy

Your phone would ring once in a while but Yeosang was quick to assure Yunho, if he called, that you were fine. And if Jongho called, he wouldn’t even bother picking up. He wanted to be petty, what could he say?

By the third day, you were feeling completely fine. You were able to get up on your own and finally shower after staying on the same bed with the same clothes for a couple of days. You were able to deduce that Yeosang had taken you to his other guest room, the one that didn’t have the theater system.

When you got in the bathroom, you were pleasantly surprised to find clothes already provided in there for you. You couldn’t help the beating of your heart, both in adoration with this man and in the hurt you feel for him.

You hugged your knees, huddling in the corner of the shower as your tears mixed with the cascading water from above you. You hoped that it would wash away all the wrongs you’ve done, but you knew it never worked like that. If only things were that easy.

The shower definitely made you feel better, your body was so sore from laying down for days. You needed to stretch, and so when you looked at the time, you realized that it was only seven o’clock in the morning, so you could make breakfast for you and Yeosang.

Your body was on autopilot, years of making breakfast for Jongho and Yunho has trained you for this very moment. You just hoped Yeosang liked what you made, but you would understand if he didn’t.

“Smells good.”

You screeched, jumping a couple of feet away from where you were standing, throwing the spatula you were holding in the air. There he was, standing at the foot of the stairs just watching you.

He sighed, walking and picking up the spatual to hand it over to you. You avoided eye contact with him when he got so close, you could smell him. It makes your head grow weary with dizziness.

“I’m glad the clothes fit you,” he mumbled, clearing his throat. “Do you feel better?”

“I-I think so,” you replied, tucking a strand of your hair at the back of your ears, not knowing what to do now that he was directly in front of you like this.  

When you closed your eyes, you envisioned his face. Not in its entirety, however. You could perfectly see his features one by one when he removed the mask that night, but it was difficult to imagine them all together. Redness coloured your cheeks at the very thought of it. 

It wasn’t lost on him what you were thinking. The nervous ticks of your hands and the slightest shift of your body told him everything you needed to know, that you were nervous. 

You were expecting him to reply with something snide, something sarcastic, like he has always done with you. But instead, he heaved a sigh so heavy, it sounded like he was completely giving up and surrendering. “What am I going to do with you?” Yeosang said.

You frowned, looking up at him in apprehension. “W-What do you mean?”

“First, you invade my privacy by snooping around,” he said bluntly. You winced. “And then, you have the audacity to get sick. And now you’re here, making me breakfast you know I wouldn’t eat in front of you.”

You bit your lip, chewing on it nervously. You let out a small gasp when his thumb gently presses on your chin, pulling it down a little to stop you from doing so. “And then do you shit like this,” he whispered.

”I’m sorry,” you blurted out. “I’m so sorry for everything, I didn’t mean to be sick, but I’m very grateful that you took care of me.”

He smirked, shaking his head. “Yeah, well, did you really think I’d just leave you hanging like that? Did you honestly think that you weren’t important to me enough?”

You blinked at him owlishly, your mouth opened a little as you stared comically at him. “But, you weren’t wrong,” you gulped, your vulnerability overpowering how nervous you were actually feeling right now. ”I did snoop around but I promise you I didn’t do it on purpose, I promise you—-“

”Shh,” he hushes you, pressing his thumb on your lips this time. “I know, princess, I know,“ he swallowed before continuing. “None of it was your fault, i-it’s all mine. I am so, so sorry, Y/N.”

It hurt you to see him like this, the Yeosang you knew was headstrong, upfront, and outspoken. The Yeosang in front of you right now was vulnerable, just like you, nervous, and hesitant to say what was on his mind. His eyes bore into you, they shone with endearment towards you.

His hand makes way to your cheeks, his hand cupping your face tenderly. “I’m glad you’re okay,” he whispered, a tone I’ve never heard from him before. “I’d never forgive myself if something happened to you.”

You sniffled, forcing a smile on your face. “Nah, you can’t get rid of me that easily,“ you chuckled. “I’m strong, aren’t I? Cheer up, Yeo.”

His hand itched to pull your head closer. “I’ve always liked it when you call my name like that,” he confessed, testing the waters by taking one step closer towards you. “When all you hear everywhere is ‘freak’, it sounds like a treat, you know?”

“I’m the only one who should matter,” you blurted out without thinking. “Those people don’t deserve you, they don’t deserve the smart, kind, empathetic person that you are, they just don’t.”

You saw Yeosang close his eyes slowly, his entire body trembling as he held you. “That’s where you’re wrong,” he muttered, both of his hands holding your face this time. “I don’t deserve you.”

“What? Don’t say that—-”

“I told myself to not cross this line before,” he said, walking forward, his hand pushing you backwards until you hit the countertop with your behind. “So I pushed you down a million times, but the truth was, I’d love it if you knew that you were on my mind.”

Your heart was constricting, shrinking on itself, that it hurt to even breathe. The vulnerability in his eyes was making you tear up. You purse your lips to stop yourself from tearing up then and there. “Do you remember what you told me the other night?” Yeosang asked you, his hand going behind your neck. 

You shook your head, not because you didn’t truly remember, but because you can’t even describe what you’re truly feeling right now. “You told me to forgive myself,” he murmured. “But how am I supposed to do that when I was this close to losing you because of some misunderstanding from my insecurities?”

You could feel the weight of what he was saying as something tangible. You gulped, opening your mouth those three little words you’ve always wanted to tell him, but he quickly shook his head. 

“Don’t say it,” he pleaded. “Not yet, Y/N. Not yet.”

This was it for Yeosang, it was now or never. With what he’s going to tell you, it’s either you stay or you don’t. There is no in between. He ran his hand through his hair, something you noticed he did a lot when he was frustrated, as if doing so would lessen his unraveling thoughts and feelings. 

“Fuck,” he hissed under his breath. He can’t do it, where did he even want to start?

It was a constant push and pull between you and Yeosang - he was good at being there without suffocating, you were good at offering your support without asking for anything in return. It infuriated him, yet intoxicated him. All he wanted was to run away when all you wanted to do was lean on him. 

But not anymore, he wasn’t going to run anymore.

“For the lack of a better word, I’m fucked up, Y/N,” he chuckled bitterly, breaking your heart into small pieces. “It wasn’t always like this, you know? I have my reasons, and I was fine being alone, but you.”

He held your hands and warmth spread all throughout your fingertips. It sent sparks down your spine. “The first time I looked at you, you didn’t even notice it. You were the only one who didn’t pay attention to me or said anything remotely stupid about this.”

He was referring to the mask. You stared at him in sadness, was the bar really that low? It wasn’t difficult to not talk about it, it wasn’t your place, and you believed everyone does what they do for a reason regardless or how unreasonable it could be. 

His eyes started to search yours. He wanted to stop breathing. It was those eyes of yours. He swallowed a lump on his throat because you always looked at him like the only thing you saw was him. It was too much for him at times, yet it was never enough at the same time.

“There are a lot of things I want to tell you, but I don’t know where to start,” he admitted. He hated how small he sounded. “I want to tell you everything, I’m just stuck in my head lately, that’s all.”

You didn’t respond immediately, what were you supposed to say to something like that? You weren’t good with things like this, and your heart twisted with hurt as you took a good look at him, he looked hopeful yet sad. Yeosang thought you looked so understanding right now, and he wanted to scream.

“You saw it when you opened the box, didn’t you?”

You tilted your head, confused at first, but you knew exactly what he was talking about. You wanted to hear it from him. “What about it?”

“I’m so stupid,” he chuckled bitterly. “I guess I was embarrassed when you found out that you weren’t going to be my original partner for the project.”

Your heart thudded in your chest. I knew it, you thought. You did have an inkling, but you didn’t want to assume anything. “I don’t know why I did it, but I don’t regret it. Deep down, I think Professor Choi knew,” he continued.

You noticed that he was slowly pulling away, you can read it in his eyes that he’s said enough. You weren’t going to let him do that.

”Yeosang,” you uttered his name with gentle care; with such grace. “You can tell me anything, alright? No matter what it is, I’m here. You have no reason to carry your burdens by yourself anymore.”

You could tell that your words hit him like a hurricane. You stared at him, the conflict in his eyes, oh, how you want to take that all away from him. You definitely wanted to tell him how you felt about him, and you just might. 

Yeosang stepped closer to you, your face almost brushing against his chest. His hand tightened their hold on your and the contact sent jolts of shivers against your scalp. He was having an internal conflict, his resolve slowly breaking down in front of you as his eyes met with yours once again. You almost couldn’t handle the softness in his eyes, it was too much, yet it was everything.

“I don’t think I can do this,” he choked out, eyes reddening. He was pulling away.

But you weren’t going to let him. “You can,” you encouraged, voice gentle yet firm. You brought his hands to your lips and gave them a small peck. “I’m not leaving, even if you push me away. I am not leaving you.”

"No, you don't understand," he counteracted. "I don't want you to lean on me, because I'm falling, and I don't want that for you."

His hands were trembling. "And don't even count on me, because I'm drowning," he gazed at you with despair. "Please don't drown with me."

That hurt more than you thought possible for your heart to take. The emotions behind it were so rough, and for the first time, you didn't know what to do. "What do you want, then?"

"To hold you in my arms," he admitted. "Because I'd let the ocean take me if I can't."

The pounding of Yeosang’s heart slowed down, and finally, he finally felt like he could breathe again. He’d always felt like he was standing on the edge of the cliff, but this time, he could see himself finally jumping towards that liberation he’d always dreamt of chasing.

”Do you trust me?” You suddenly asked him.

It didn’t even take him a second to answer. “With all my heart.”

You suddenly lifted your fingers, eyes never leaving his. The fabric of the mask he wore on his face felt smooth and heavy against your fingertips as you slowly pulled it down and pulled it away from his face. It was the symbolization of it - you were going to set him free. 

To say you were starstruck was the least of your concerns. You’ve never seen someone so astoundingly beautiful that it took your breath away. It was like being hit by lightning - so sudden and intense that you felt like you were being blown away. You took all of his features one by one - his perfect nose, his kissable lips, that adorable birthmark that was now in full view.

It certainly brought tears to your eyes. You cupped Yeosang’s face as your tears fell. “You’re beautiful,” you sobbed, more tears filling your lips as you smiled at him. “So beautiful, Yeo. So, so beautiful.”

“I love you,” he whispered, his eyes filling up with his own tears. Finally saying them felt like something broke inside him yet healed at the same time. “I wanted to tell you in a better setting, in a more graceful way, but I don’t think I can keep it all in anymore.”

It was true. The words just slipped out before he could stop himself. It hung in the air, it felt unreal, and it was suffocating because his chest tightened with a mix of fear and anxiety as he waited for your response.

Your eyes widened and for a moment, you thought your knees were going to buckle underneath you. Before you even understood it, yourself, your hands left his face to snake behind his neck and then you were leaning towards him, your lips finally meeting with his.

It was everything and more. He was surprised at first, but then his lips started to move in sync with yours. It was months of pining with one another, feelings that were left unsaid for most of the time. And now you were here, breathing each other in as if today was going to be your last.

You felt so soft and warm against him. You were everything he ever wanted and now that he had you, there was no way he was letting you go. Not again.

”I love you too,” you pulled away slightly, your faces still inches away from each other. 

He couldn’t help but chuckle, not in amusement, but in relief. For the first time, he just let himself fall. He felt a deep yearning for you, it was far more than the desire to have you for himself. It was the unadulterated love he had for you.

You bit your lips at the sound of his voice, deep and unfiltered without the mask covering it. Yeosang tentatively held your face, his head tilting, the ghost of his lips fleeting against yours. He hesitated. While he wanted nothing more than to capture your lips one more time, he wanted to ask you one last thing.

“If I kiss you again right now, that will mean you will be mine,” he whispered. 

His impatient side was taking over, but no, it was up to you. If you want him, you’ll have him.

You blushed at the implication, but you already knew what you wanted. This was why you fell for him - it wasn’t for what he looked like or what he could and could have offered you, it was his warm and considerate attitude.

Your lips brushed against his. It was meant to be sweet, a confirmation of what your answer was without even needing to spell the words out to him. 

Yeosang’s resolve broke when you parted your lips. You let out a breathy, startled cry when he plunged his tongue straight onto your mouth, and your hold on his shoulders did nothing to calm down the wild beating of your heart. He pulled you close to him as if he was scared that you were going to leave him and all you did was kiss him even deeper to prove that you wouldn’t.

He needed to hear that sweet sound again. It was supposed to be a chaste kiss,  but when he sucked on your tongue after you had teasingly bitten his bottom lip, sweetness be damned. He swallowed your quiet, whiny moans as he held you closer against him, his hand just holding your cheeks as if you were the most precious of treasures.

The both of you were startled out of the kiss when the loud beeping of the fire alarm sounded from somewhere above you.

You paled, quickly pushing Yeosang away to put the fire away from the burning pan of breakfast that you had totally both forgotten in the heat of the moment. You pouted, disheartened at the blackened eggs, or what was left of it.

Yeosang started to laugh, not believing that an egg cockblocked him. It wasn’t the sarcastic laugh you were used to nor was it that passing laugh he’d make when he was restraining himself. No, this was the tummy-tickling type. His entire face was scrunched up, his lips spread throughout his face, his eyes squinting with that unmistakable happiness, and his demeanor light and free. You loved this look on him.

“Stop making fun of me,” you pouted, laughing in between. You never realized how contagious his laughter was, and that realization led you to another thought - you are loving the new things you were learning about him.

“Just leave them,” he said, taking the pan from you to put it down the sink and pulling you plush against his toned chest. 

“Yeosang,” you whined, blushing profusely at his affectionate gestures. It was a total change from who he was just hours prior to this. “Stop, I’m embarrassed…”

When he planted a quick peck on your lips, he couldn’t help but laugh again at your even more reddened face. You were so cute in his eyes, and had he known that he would feel this happy just by being with you like this, he would’ve gotten his head out of his ass a while back.

”I’ll take you out for lunch, princess,” he bargained, holding on to your hand. It wasn’t the first time he said the pet name, but it felt entirely different this time on your ears. “There’s this place I have to take you after.”

You didn’t miss the melancholy in his eyes when he said it, but you tried your best to cheer him up. “Oh? Is this a date, Kang Yeosang?”

”What if it is?” Yeosang scoffed playfully, hugging you from the waist tighter. “Can’t I take my girl out?”

“Who said I was your girl?”

You slightly felt bad at his shocked, widened eyes. You laughed out loud, leaning towards him once more to give him a sweet peck on his cheeks. “Relax, hot stuff,” you smirked when pink tinted his cheeks. “Thank you for loving me.”

A genuine smile crossed his lips, the adoration in his eyes tripling from the words you just uttered. He leaned his forehead against yours, content and happy. “No, thank you for loving me.”

Lunch was better than you could have ever imagined. Yeosang took you to this place that was an hour away from his apartment. Unsurprisingly, it was a high-end place, somewhere you would never have imagined you’d ever dine in.

“Yeo, I feel underdressed,” you frowned in concern, tugging at your dress that you both shopped for on a whim to suit the ambience of the fine dining spot.

”You’re beautiful,” he murmured, leaning down to kiss your forehead. “The most beautiful princess.”

When you finally sat down, he kept looking around, fiddling with his suit uncomfortably. You took his hand in yours in reassurance, it was the first time he went out without his mask and you could tell that he wasn’t used to it.

If only he knew. You ate lunch slowly, not because you were trying to be posh, but because you kept stealing glances at your boyfriend. Your boyfriend. The thought almost made you choke on your food so many times.

He really was the most beautiful person you’ve ever seen, heck, he was even prettier than you ever will be. His features were so refined, like God took his time with him. And now, he was yours.

However, the old Yeosang you knew was still there. He glared nastily at you when you tried to split the bill when you were done eating. You sheepishly smiled at him, putting your card back in your wallet to let him pay for everything. You would make it up to him by kissing him in front of everybody in the restaurant when you were leaving.

Public display of affection wasn’t your thing, but it was so worth it to see his flustered smirk.

”Do you know why I brought you here?” Yeosang questioned, buckling your seatbelt for you like a true gentleman, curiously. 

You frowned, looking around from inside the car. You’ve never been here before and to be fair, when you told him to surprise you, he did deliver. “You’re not going to kill me and dump my body out here, aren’t you?” You teased him.

He rolled his eyes dramatically. “I should,” he murmured. He laid his arm at your headrest, looking behind as he reversed the car. You gulped, he looked hot. “Seriously, Y/N? God, you’re so fucking weird.”

You chortled, the snorting sound coming from you was so embarrassing but you didn’t care. “True, but you love me,” you smirked triumphantly. 

He sniffled, wiping an imaginary tear from his eye. “I know,” he fake cried. “Is it too late for me to find the receipt so I can still return you to the store?”

You gasped, your mouth dropping in mock offense. “Yeosang!”

He wasn’t going to change from that apathetic friend that you had first before this, except that you had the benefit of having his love now. 

The drive was smooth-sailing. You felt like you were in cloud nine the entire time, giggling when he would smirk at you knowingly, his hand on yours the entire time while the other was on the steering wheel. You couldn’t help but notice how smooth his hands were.

Soon enough, you were driving in an area where the houses had great views and were situated in prime locations. You didn’t notice it at first, but the more you drove, the bigger the houses got. You weren’t naive, you had an idea just how wealthy Yeosang’s family was, but you were about to find out just how wealthy they actually were.

”Let’s go,” he murmured, unbuckling his seatbelt after parking directly in front of this gated house - mansion, rather. It was intimidating, the driveway, alone, was long and winding, surrounded by pretty lights and vast greenery. 

He opened your door for you, holding your hand and gently ushering you out. You gulped, if you felt underdressed earlier when you went to a fine dining restaurant, you definitely felt out of place and you haven’t even gone inside yet.

“You could’ve told me we were going here,” you frowned, your mind already getting poisoned by your own insecurities. You gestured to yourself. “I would’ve dressed better.”

Outside the gates was a small hut-looking station, presumably where the security guards were whose jobs were to filter out who entered the property and kick out whoever isn't welcome. Yeosang knocked twice on the window with his knuckles. You were fascinated when the sliding window opened quickly, seemingly like whoever was there wasn’t expecting to be disturbed when they opened their mouth to speak.

But when they saw who was knocking, they immediately shut up. “Young Master,” the guard said in surprise rather than contempt. 

Your boyfriend smiled. “Hello, Juyeon,” he waved slightly. He gestured to me. “I’m with my girl. Open the gates, do not announce my arrival. Wooyo?”

You didn’t pay attention to their conversation, your insecurities getting the best of you. You generally weren’t someone to get intimidated by opulence and the material luxury that this world could offer, but now that it was right in front of you staring you in the face, you didn’t know what to do.

You didn’t realize that the gates had opened and Yeosang was holding your hand again and leading you inside. You smiled politely at the guard, bowing slightly to each other before you turned your attention back to Yeosang.

“You’re beautiful, I told you,” he shook his head, walking forward and leading you in. “If anything, you look perfect.”

He chuckled at your confused face. “There’s someone I’d like you to meet, someone important to me,” he explained, his voice taking on a sadder tone even though he tried to hide it from you. “This is my family home. I want everyone to see you for you and they will accept that because I’d hate for you to change just to fit in.”

You didn’t know squat about construction, but even to the inexperienced eye, it was easy to tell that the way the entire property was built was made up of high-quality and premium materials. You were still on the lawn and it was already boasting a large amount of space. 

“It’s called common courtesy,” you reasoned out, trying hard not to gawk at your surroundings. “I don’t want to look like I didn’t make an effort or anything.”

You faced the front door with him, pausing when he hesitated to push it open. “You’re literally fine, though I understand where you’re coming from,” he reassured me. “My parents are very kind people, trust me.”

You blanched. “Your parents?”

Now you felt totally out of place, you were about to meet his parents! “Yeo, a-are you sure about this? We’ve only been together for a day, are you sure—-”

“Princess,” he stopped you, worry in his eyes at your panicked state. It significantly calmed you down, but it didn’t stop the wild beating of your heart. “You were my friend first,” he smiled tightly at you. “I think my parents would be pleased to meet the person that helped me and was there for me whenever I needed comfort.”

Your chest warmed, his words hitting you directly in your heart. To say you were touched would be an understatement. “I did that for you?”

“In more ways than one, yeah,” he chuckled, ruffling your hair affectionately before fixing it, tucking the stray ones behind your ears gently and tenderly. “Ready?”

If the driveway and the lawn weren’t enough to impress you and make your jaw hit the floor, the interior of the house definitely did. Everything from the living room down the smallest corners of the walls screamed luxury and money, the attention to detail was impressive, especially since you grew up in a humble home.

”Holy shit, Yeosang,” you blurted out as he gave you a tour. “I knew you had money, but this is crazy.”

“Old money,” he shrugged. “Didn’t Jongho tell you we were childhood friends? My little princess can think about that for a second, hmm?”

You rolled your eyes at him, but he was right. It also didn’t stop the blush from rising up your cheeks. You would just never get used to his affectionate nature being out in the open now. 

Besides the few house workers that were delighted at the sight of Yeosang, you didn’t encounter anybody significant yet. You weren’t sure if that was a relief or not, but so far you were enjoying the tour. He showed the pool, the built-in sauna with the promise of using it with you next time, and the outdoor kitchen.

There was also a home theater, but he didn’t stay long. You figured it had something to do with how you two had a falling out a week prior. Instead, he took you to his favourite place - the wine cellar. Apparently, his father loved collecting wine from all over the world. You gulped at the mere thought of the price tag attached to them.

He smirked when he brought you to the main kitchen. Your eyes shone at the granite countertops, the marbled floors, and the custom cabinetry that held every spice and herb known to mankind. There, a kind looking woman approached you with a wide smile. Yeosang introduced her as the head chef.

”I see you got yourself a little girlfriend, Sangie,” she teased mischievously. 

Yeosang cleared his throat, rolling his eyes affectionately as he gave the head a tight hug. “It’s been a while,” he whispered with an emotion you haven’t recognized before. “Uhm, this is Y/N,“ he gestures to you after he’s pulled away. 

“Nice to meet you,” you smiled as the head chef gave you a tight hug of your own. It certainly touched you, it was such a warm gesture and you’ve never met them before, too.

”Hopefully, Yeosang has been treating you well,” she said with a knowing smile. “My, you are very pretty, dear.”

“Who’s very pretty?”

You turned to a new voice from the entrance of the grand kitchen. Judging from what you were seeing, you knew exactly who this woman was. She looked just like Yeosang, except she was much, much older. She had this elegance and grace that one couldn’t get from anywhere else except for age and the wisdom that came along with it.

You bowed in a ninety-degree angle as politely and as respectfully as you possibly can. “G-Good afternoon, Mrs. Kang, I am so sorry to intrude into your house like this!” 

You heard her amused laughter, and when you rose back up, you held back in your own laughter when you saw her hold the shell of her son’s ear and pulled it towards her cheekily. 

“You unfilial son of mine,” she started off, ignoring Yeosang’s groans of pain as she tightened her hold. “You haven’t set foot in here for a while and you dare just show up unannounced? Oh, your father will have a field day with you!”

“But it’s okay,” she giggled, your eyes widening when she held you by the arm. “Finally, you bring a beautiful girl home, oh, I thought my son was going to die a virgin forever!”

“Mum! What the hell?”

Yeosang’s mom was a chatterbox, and she was the sweetest. It made you breathe out a sigh of relief because you were slightly terrified that she’d reject your humble background compared to theirs and her son’s lifestyle growing up.

The only way Yeosang was able to drag you away was when you made a promise to her that you’d come back for tea time.

“Princess, I hope this doesn’t deter you from coming back,” he remarked sarcastically, leading you outside with his hand on your lower back. “I swear everybody here is sane.”

As if on cue, the house staff that would either pass the two of you or you would pass bowed and giggled to themselves in amusement and surprise when they saw Yeosang. You smiled awkwardly at everybody, breathing a sigh of relief when you reached the back part of the property once more, except Yeosang led you to an entirely different place.

“I think everybody is sweet and it’s quite endearing to see them like you,” you chuckled. “I get it though. It’s like they haven’t seen you in months.”

“That’s because they actually haven’t seen me in months,” he deadpanned.

You chuckled a bit, thinking that he was joking just to uplift the mood, but when you saw his facial expression remaining unchanged, your smile dropped. “W-Wait, you’re serious?”

“We’ve been technically together for a while now without the label, have you ever seen my family visit or heard a phone call?” Yeosang scoffed, pulling on your hand to stop you from walking. “We’re here.”

Your mouth parted in awe. Flowers littered your vision, they were a dancing rainbow of pretty blossoms. You’ve always dreamt of getting a house one day with a huge garden like this, you could almost detect the insatiable fragrance this garden offered, and the way the beautiful petals curled from the summer heat made you want to touch them. You could stay here and make this your sanctuary.

”But why? Was there any reason you cut contact with them? They love you, Yeo, I could see that,” you said softly, curiosity dancing in your eyes.

He lifted a finger to point at something. “That’s why,” he said. His eyes were swimming with a mixture of anxiety and longing, but when he blinked, it was gone. He offered you his hand once more. “Come along, princess. There’s someone I would like you to meet.”

You didn’t notice it at first, but there was a person on the far end of the garden. The closer you got, the more you realized that it was a man. He was obscured by all the pretty flowers, but he was there clear as day.

Your heart dropped to your feet, for the man was in a wheelchair, his entire right leg in a cast along with his right arm. Was this the reason why Yeosang chose to leave his family? You were nervous to know the answer.

He didn’t notice you at first, too busy basking underneath the sun that was beaming down on him. He had a soft, serene smile painted on his face that signified that he was truly at peace at the moment. Your brows shot up when you got closer, he was handsome. 

Finally, he looked up, and then his eyes widened. Between Yeosang’s trembling hands and the man’s widened, unsure eyes, you didn’t know what to do, exactly. The three of you were frozen in time.

“Yeosang,” he whispered, eyes hooded with emotions you couldn’t stand looking at, not because you had something against this man, but because you might end up crying if you stare too long. He tried to get up hurriedly, struggling against his restrictions, and it was when Yeosang finally broke out of his trance and rushed forward.

“Damn it, Wooyoung, what the hell is wrong with you?” Yeosang hissed, his harsh voice a contrast to the gentle way he helped the latter sit back properly on his wheelchair. “Have you lost your mind?”

You purse your lips. Ah, you thought, so this was Wooyoung. The genes in this family continue to astound you. You didn’t recognize him at first - in the photo you saw, Wooyoung had shorter hair, and right now, his hair was long enough to reach his shoulders. And he has a thorny rose tattoo that he didn’t have in the photo.

Wooyoung stared at Yeosang when he lifted his pants a little before squatting down to his level, using his hands to lean on the wheelchair for support. The fox-looking man stared at his brother with no particular expression on his face except for his teary eyes. You felt like you were intruding.

Yeosang smirked lightly, without any malice or ill-intent. “How are you, Woo?”

You weren’t expecting much, in fact, you weren’t expecting anything at all, but you sure as hell weren’t expecting your boyfriend’s face to be, for the lack of a better word, bitch-slapped so hard, it sent his head reeling to the side. The loud, cracking sound of skin hitting skin surprised you, to say the least.

“That’s for disappearing on me for months,” Wooyoung hissed, his hand still in the air.

Yeosang’s mouth was parted in shock. He slowly turned his head back to Wooyoung, his eyes widened, but he didn’t say a word. His cheek was slowly growing red and if it wasn’t for the situation, you would’ve laughed at the handprint forming on the area.

After a while, Wooyoung burst out crying, leaning forward to grab Yeosang by his shirt so he could wrap his arms tightly around him. Yeosang relaxes into the hug, patting Wooyoung’s shaking body whilst rubbing onto his back soothingly like a father comforting a son. The only sound in the garden right now was Wooyoung’s silent wails and sniffles.

“How did you even know I was here?” Wooyoung wondered, sniffling, as he pulled away and took a good look at Yeosang by holding onto his face. “You look…happier.”

You blushed when he side-eyes you mischievously, winking at you subtly before turning his attention back at Yeosang. “You’re a jerk, you know that?” Wooyoung further chided, scoffing loudly at Yeosang, who rolled his eyes. “Dad is pretty pissed at you and mum was running around like a chicken without a head. You left me high and dry, bastard.”

“And you?” Yeosang raised a brow, rubbing his cheek, offended.  “What about you?”

“You tell me,”  Wooyoung pushed Yeosang’s shoulder. You wanted to giggle at how different the two brothers were. “You were having so much fun at dad’s penthouse.”

Yeosang was genuinely surprised. “How—”

“Anyway,” he grinned, turning his wheelchair manually to face you. He stretches his arm towards you and waves it to gesture to you to come closer to him. “Come, come,” he said. “I need to know the girl who removed my brother’s stick from his ass.”

“Bold of you to assume we’re together,” Yeosang scoffed, motioning for you to sit down on the nearby bench.

“Keep telling yourself that. Move along,” he turned his wheelchair once more, the wheels going over Yeosang’s foot like a bump on the road. He mumbled a small ‘oops,’ not really caring about the latter’s groan of pain as he clutched on his foot while glaring behind the former’s back intensely.

He grinned again, bringing his hand out for you to shake. “Jung Wooyoung, the better looking brother.”

“Keep telling yourself that,” Yeosang rebutted. “She’s my girlfriend, dimwit.”

“L/N Y/N, the stick holder,” you smirked, bringing your own hand out to shake his. You tried hard not to stare at his cast and his injuries, though you were extra curious about them especially since Yeosang kept looking at them when he thought Wooyoung didn’t notice, and his eyes held pain.

Wooyoung laughed, surprising you with his high-pitched cackle. “Oh my God, I like her, I like her!” He repeatedly said, slapping his own thigh as he laughed. He batted his eyelashes at you. “So, what did you do to bring my brother out of his shell?”

It was when the atmosphere turned tense. Yeosang’s shoulders stiffened, his back muscles turning rigid. “I don’t think we should talk about that right now,” he murmured, sitting beside you and draping an arm across your shoulders.  “There’s so much time, Woo–”

“What, so much time for you to leave again? I won’t see you for months, hell, I might not see you again, knowing you,” Wooyoung scoffed, sighing heavily. He looked up at the sky again for minutes before setting his eyes towards Yeosang once more. “You need to let go, Sangie,” he paused, tilting his chin at me. “Does she know?”

Your curiosity was definitely piqued this time. Yeosang shook his head. “That’s why I’m here,” he sighed. He looked at you, giving you a tight smile. “I figured if you’re going to be with me, you have to know soon, anyway.”

“Is this related to why you covered your face the entire time during this semester?” You wondered absentmindedly, not expecting that it would set off another set of questions.

“Wait, what the hell does that mean?” Wooyoung blurted out in surprise. “Cover your face, how? Yeosang?”

Both of you proceeded to tell in your own experiences on how Yeosang would wear a mask to cover the bottom half of his face on campus and even around you until recently. Wooyoung’s jaw dropped lower and lower down to the floor the more you recounted your experiences, especially how Yeosang was being treated by the other students.

Wooyoung had this forlorn look on his face that got sadder and sadder the more you talked to the point that you regretted talking in the first place. He rubbed his face with his hands frustratedly. “Damn it, Sangie, I told you, I’m fine.”

Yeosang raised a brow, giving his injuries a pointed look, making Wooyoung roll his eyes. “It will heal,” he tried to console, but it wasn’t working. He turned to you, eyes laced with pain, before he sighed and spoke. “There was a car accident a couple of months ago. I was in the passenger’s seat, and Yeosang was driving.”

Hearing that felt like a dream, the sudden shock of it not fully sinking into you until Yeosang tightened his hold on your shoulder. “I like you, and you seem like a nice girl,” Wooyoung continued. “But I have to ask you this - what do you think about Yeosang?”

It definitely sparked something in you, it was an easy answer. “Everything,” you grabbed Yeosang’s hands in yours. “He’s very sweet, a bit of a jackass sometimes, but it’s a part of his personality I’m willing to work around because I’m in love with him. Anybody who doesn’t like him is lost on them, and I feel bad for them.”

Wooyoung seemed satisfied with this answer. His hand patted your free hand before he looked down. “There was this girl,” he began, voice hardening. “Long story short, she was obsessed with him. She followed him everywhere, she even broke into our house one night, I mean, this girl was crazy.”

You gasped, turning your head abruptly at Yeosang, who was avoiding eye contact. You had an idea where this was going, you didn’t want to hear the repeated heartbreak for both of them, but you had to because it will help Yeosang move on. You tightened your hold on his hand.

It made sense. It all made sense. The attitude, the melancholy, and the mask. It just made sense. His face was his downfall.

“One day, we were coming home from the arcade,” Wooyoung continued. “Next thing we know, she was trailing us from behind and trying to line herself to the car,” he shook his head bitterly. “She was drunk. One thing led to another, my side of the car hit a pole head on.”

You gasped loudly, covering your mouth with your hands. Anger coursed through your veins, its hot trail going up your brain at the pain that must’ve brought upon everybody. “As you can see, I’m still recovering. Couple of broken bones,” he pointed to his casts. “But I’m fine. I’m alive, aren’t I?”

“It shouldn’t have happened at all,” Yeosang gritted his teeth. “I should have been careful, I should’ve just driven faster, I should’ve,” he paused, sniffling, rubbing his eyes to stop the tears from falling. “If it wasn’t for me, you wouldn’t have gotten hurt, Wooyoung. You lost your baseball scholarship because of me.”

“You couldn’t have known,” Wooyoung shook his head. “It’s her fault, Yeosang. It was never yours, it’s high time you stopped blaming yourself.”

Yeosang buried his head on the crook of your shoulder and neck, his other arm wrapping completely around your shoulders until he was fully hugging you for his own comfort. You and Wooyoung looked at each other and you couldn’t help but admire the man. The accident should have deterred him, but no, he still looked like a bright and cheerful person. Jung Wooyoung was stronger than anyone you know.

Wooyoung lifted his hand, trembling, wanting to reach out to his brother, but he put them back down. “You already gave up your dreams of being an idol because of this, because of that bitch,” he whispered bitterly. You were taken aback at the animosity, but you couldn’t blame him. “How much more of yourself are you going to take?”

Wetness hit your neck, but Yeosang made no sound. You respected it even though you wanted him to just let it out completely. You smoothed his hair out, whispering sweet nothings in his ear and letting him know that you were here for him. You wanted to cry with him, he has been through so much and you never knew.

“A little birdie did tell me to forgive myself,” he chuckled, sniffling a bit before chuckling lightheartedly. 

You blushed again when Wooyoung wiggled his eyebrows playfully at you. Yeosang pulls apart from you to lean down to hug his brother. It was then that you all knew that that weight had been lifted off of his shoulders, that the ghost of his past was finally leaving him to be the person he once was slowly, but surely.

“Mum and dad had never blamed you, and neither did I,” Wooyoung closed his eyes, rubbing Yeosang’s back. “We’ll heal together, okay?”

Campus was fascinating, to say the least. You had stayed over Yeosang’s penthouse the entire weekend. You couldn’t bear to leave him after that, but right now, you kept adjusting your sweater because makeup wasn’t enough to cover the hickeys that littered your collarbone and your chest.

After much deliberation, Yeosang had decided to ditch the mask. You assured him that whether or not he wore it would not change anything about your relationship, but all he gave you was a small smile and a reassuring peck on the lips.

“I have you now, I have no reason to wear it anymore,” he said. “Plus, it was getting difficult to wear it, anyway. I don’t know why I even started.”

One thing you were excited about, however, was being in the car with him to spend more time with him since you only had one class together. Luckily, both of your classes started in the afternoon, so you had time in the morning to go on a small date.

“Nervous?” You asked him, holding his hand as he stared out at the parking lot of the campus. “We should have taken my car, it’s a little more laidback.”

“No,” he shook his head. “I’ve been hiding who I am for a while and to be quite frank, there’s only a lot of smack talking I can take, and plus,” he smirked, opening the car door and swinging his legs out. “You’re with me. . I refuse to let you get dragged in this shit.”

You were proud of Yeosang, even though he was slightly nervous, you could tell that he was at least trying. Everyone started to stare, you two were definitely eye-catching. You weren’t the most well-known student, but everybody did recognize you for being a friend of not only Jongho and Yunho, but also Hongjoong. 

Yeosang, however, nobody has ever seen him before. You were slightly peeved, it wasn’t that much of a secret that Yeosang was definitely attractive, subjectively and objectively. His jawline was defined, his eyes brighter and more expressive now, and overall, he just looked free.

The closer you got to the crowded places, the more heads turned. Eyes after eyes following your every move, wondering who the handsome man with you was and whether he was a student or just someone you’re with. Yes, people did stare. It was hypocritical and you couldn’t help but get mad, now that Yeosang was more pleasing to their eyes, they chatter with excitement?

“Relax, princess,” Yeosang chuckled, pushing your head towards his so he could plant a small kiss on your forehead. You smirked at all the ‘aww’ and ‘damn’ in the background. “You’re like a little cat with its fur standing up.”

He opened the door to the library for you with a small chuckle and suddenly, his eyes shone with nostalgia. He smirked at you, this was where everything had started, and right now, he was silently making fun of you when you were still technically stalking him back then when you had a crush on him.

Hongjoong smiled brightly at you when you and Yeosang approached the table. “Hey, Y/N. What’s going on?”

You sheepishly gave him the book that you had borrowed from before and avoided eye contact with him when he raised his brows so high, it almost reached his hairline. Even Yeosang was trying not to laugh beside you.

“Y/N, this is the same book from months ago when you were trying to butter up to Kang Yeosang,” Hongjoong muttered, scoffing in disbelief and amusement. “Holy crap, I have to see what your penalty fee would be.”

You didn’t care. You were embarrassed to the high heavens, especially when Yeosang started to put his knuckles in his mouth to stop himself from bursting out laughing. “Yeah? I wonder how that went,” he asked, adding salt to your wounds.

“Oh, you should’ve seen her,” Hongjoong grinned. “She had such a massive crush on the guy, it was hilarious,” he shook his head before clearing his throat. “Sorry about that. Would you like to return a book or borrow one, yourself?”

“I’ll borrow the same book, if you don’t mind,” Yeosang pointed at the Machiavellian book absentmindedly. “I promise to return it on time.”

You hissed at him, actually sounding like a cat, in annoyance. Hongjoong laughed and nodded. “Of course,” he gave Yeosang the logbook and a pen like he did to you before when you borrowed the book, yourself. “I just need you to write your name here.”

“Oh, no need,” Yeosang brushed off. “My name should be in the book. Kang Yeosang.”

“Ah, I see—what?” Hongjoong said before doing a comical double-take with his eyes bulged out from its sockets. It was your turn to smirk and look at him in amusement. He looked at Yeosang up and down with a huge smile. “Holy shit, man, you look amazing! I love the coat on you.”

Yeosang was genuinely surprised. At first, he didn’t know how to react and it made you smile. He was still getting used to genuine compliments and you found it adorable. “Hongjoong was one of the people who didn’t judge you,” you supplied. 

“Thank you,” your boyfriend’s cheeks were tinted pink.

Class wasn’t any better either. Instead of sitting by the corner like he usually did, Yeosang sat beside you proudly. Those who had been there before you came had either looks of curiosity or awe. The two of you couldn’t help but giggle. Soon enough, the class started to fill up, and then Yunho came to sit beside you like he usually did.

“You,” he seethed, giving you a pointed look. You sheepishly looked back. “You went MIA on both Jongho and I, you owe us for making you worry the whole week!”

He notices who was beside me and does a double look before bowing a little. “Ah, hello, I don’t think I’ve ever seen you before,” Yunho juts his hand out respectfully. “Jeong Yunho.”

Yeosang gives me an amused look before he smirks. “But you have seen me before, do you not remember?”

“W-well, no, I don’t think so,” Yunho frowned, his face contorting into confusion before his eyes widened like Hongjoong’s and his mouth dropped open. “Wait, hold on—”

You giggled into your hands, it was so amusing to see your friends’ reactions to Yeosang so far. Yunho’s rant got cut off when Professor Choi entered the room along with Professor Park behind him in tow. You will admit, your two professors were both attractive and you have confessed once or twice to Yeosang that you had a crush on Professor Choi at one point.

There was a third person who trailed behind them and it made you and Yunho snort in amusement. It was Jongho. He didn’t make a point to look at anybody except the professors so he didn’t notice you and Yunho.

“I have Professor Park Seonghwa with me to judge everybody’s performance with me,” Professor Choi gestures to the latter, his dimpled smile swooning everybody present. “I’m hoping for something wonderful today,” he then gestured to Jongho next. “We also have our winner from last semester judging you all.”

You had totally forgotten about that part. Jongho did a solo the other semester. It was the reason why only you and Yunho had been in this class since Jongho was exempted.

Yunho elbowed you amidst all the chatters, droning the Professors’ explanation. “Fucking hell, Y/N, that’s Yeosang?” Yunho whistled in awe. You nodded and he snorted. “I knew it, I damn well knew he’d be attractive, but holy hell, are you sure that’s him?”

“I’m pretty sure I know who my boyfriend is,” you giggled.

You almost felt bad for Yunho, who seems to be going through an internal mental crisis. “Boyfriend? Since when?” 

Coincidentally and unluckily for him, Yunho was cut off when his name and Mingi’s were called. He seemed to forget what he was inquiring about and stood up to go. Mingi passed the both of you and smirked before greeting you.

“Wish us luck,” he chuckled. He waved slightly. “What’s up, Yeosang?”

And then he went with Yunho towards the front. Your boyfriend frowned, taken aback by Mingi’s sudden greeting. “How the heck does he know?” Yeosang murmured in surprise. He had always assumed that the campus jock was a massive asshole.

“Hell, if I knew,” you shrugged. “We barely practiced for this thing, ugh. I’m saying goodbye to those benefits now.”

After the camera had been set up by Professor Park, Yunho and Mingi began to introduce themselves towards it. You had totally forgotten that this will be a recorded performance for submission and future referrence. You clutched Yeosang’s hand nervously and he squeezed back.

You weren’t surprised at Yunho’s skills. He occasionally went to a dance studio and had even dragged you and Jongho with him at one point. However, you were definitely taken aback at Mingi’s deep and raspy voice when he started rapping. What’s more is that the guy could dance too. You groaned, you and Yeosang were definitely done for.

When Yunho went back, he looked genuinely happy, and you couldn’t help but beam at him and be happy for him, too. Even Yeosang gave him a friendly pat in the back as a congratulatory gesture.

By then, it was pretty obvious that Yunho and Mingi would win and be exempted for the next semester. Not that the others weren’t good, in fact, there were a couple of close calls. Dancing and acting seemed to be the norm and since nobody except Mingi had rapped, theirs was remarkable.

“L/N Y/N? Kang Yeosang?”

When your names were called, you suddenly felt like your legs had become like lead. Jongho looked up so fast, you were surprised his neck didn’t crack from the whiplash of looking up at your direction as if he knew you were there the entire time. His hold on the pen loosened as he stared at Yeosang in bewilderment as he started to walk down with you.

“What the fuck?” Jongho mouthed at you, perplexed at what he was seeing. You shrugged and gave him a small wink.

At first, it didn’t hit everyone - especially since a handsome man was walking towards the front of the class with you and they were expecting a masked freak. You had to control your oncoming anger, it was easy to get it misplaced since you were in a position where you could give everyone a piece of your mind, but you didn’t want to embarrass Yeosang further.

“Uhm,” Professor Park cleared his throat to mask his own surprise. “You are Yeosang, correct?”

Your boyfriend nodded, showing his campus identification card. “I think so, yeah,” he joked lightheartedly. 

All hell broke loose after a small pause. Gasps of surprise, whispers and murmurs of your fellow students all talking about Yeosang, the boy who wore a mask and who everybody called weird or eccentric, but that was long gone by now. There was a small tinge of pink on his cheeks at all the attention but when he looked at you, he knew that everything was alright.

“What will you present to us?” Professor Choi tentatively asked as he started to tinker at the recording camera. He set his wise eyes on Yeosang before lowering his voice, a ghost of a smile on his lips. “We would have given you a fair grading even if you chose to wear your self-expression.”

Yeosang gave the professor a genuine smile, going forward to grab two microphones from a still puzzled Jongho. “Thank you,” he uttered. He gave you one mic before turning again. “Uhm, we're performing a song.”

Professor Choi lifts a surprised brow while Professor Park nods, glee evident on his face. “Ah, we haven’t had anybody sing for us yet,” the former supplied. 

“Are you going to be okay? I’m worried for you,” you whispered to him truthfully amidst all the murmurs that were going around the room. 

“I’m still used to this,” he reassured. “Former idol, remember?”

The moment the music started, Yeosang lost his soul into the rhythm. You guys had decided long ago that he’d sing all the main parts while you remained as harmonies. You were proud of  him and you can see that it felt good for him, his voice elevated your soul like it was your catharsis.

You were still annoyed at all the swoons he was receiving, but you decided to ignore it for now and tamped down your jealousy, not when Yeosang was releasing the emotions he’s held within himself for a while now.

But what surprised you was not only was everyone, including Yunho and Mingi, swaying to the rhythm of Yeosang voice, but someone else’s voice had joined to harmonize with you. You looked at Jongho in surprise and it was his turn to wink at you. Yeosang patted Jongho’s shoulder as the three of you filled the room with your voices.

You weren’t sure if that was okay, but everyone went along with it. Soon enough, everybody was singing along with the two of you. Yeosang’s voice faltered and your quick thinking decided to take over for a few seconds so he could contain himself. He held your hand for comfort, this meant a lot to him, but Jongho comically pulled your hands apart, his eyes widening in a ‘no’ stance.

And soon enough, it was over. Just like when Professor Park picked who your partners would be, your performance was also the last for the day. Cheers along with loud claps surrounded the entire room and Professor Choi had to calm everybody down to not disrupt the neighbouring classes, but even he was pleased with the outcome.

“I think it’s safe to say who gets the prize, isn’t it?” Professor Park cleared his throat to hide the smirk that was threatening to spread all over his face. 

It was all surreal. Another good thing happened next and Professor Park also announced that Yunho and Mingi were to be exempted as well since their performance was unique on its own. The four of you shared a wide grin with one another, and before you knew it, your classes for the whole day were also exempted, courtesy of Jongho’s smooth-talking so the four of you could hang out.

“Fuck, man, I didn’t know you could sing like that!” Mingi exclaimed as the five of you started to walk to the parking lot. Since classes were still ongoing, you were free to do and say anything you wanted. “You should be an idol, or something.”

Yeosang put his arm across your shoulder and pulled you closer.  “I should’ve, shouldn’t I?” He grinned. Then, he cleared his throat. “You guys, uh, don’t care to be associated with me, or something?”

“What do you mean?” Mingi frowned, genuinely puzzled. “Do you not like us?”

“N-No! I mean, it’s not that,” Yeosang blanched, making you snort and laugh after. Before he could explain himself, Mingi, ever the people person, slaps Yeosang’s back playfully.

But Yeosang wasn’t the one surprised, it was Mingi. “Woah.” he blurted out. “Your back muscles, you work out too?! Say, mind if I call another friend of mine? I think he’d like to hang out, too.”

You blushed at the imagery that suddenly popped in your head. Yunho gags jokingly while waving his hands in front of him. “Oh, God, I did not want to know about that in your eyes, Y/N,” he barfs. “Also, you have a number one fan now, Yeosang—”

“Sure,” you glared at Yunho before turning to Mingi. “Depends on who's the friend though—”

“Ya! Song Mingi, what the hell did you want?!”

You all turned to the loud source of the voice and you couldn’t help but laugh out loud at Hongjoong who was marching towards your group with a menacing look, until his eyes went to Yeosang again and he snorted in amusement.

“I will never get over what your face looks like. Are you sure you’re not a model?” Hongjoong waved. “Anyway, Mingi texted me to come here.”

Everyone looked at the gentle giant, who was rubbing the back of his neck. “I may or may not have texted him already to come here…”

Yeosang was surprised again when Hongjoong slapped his back like an old friend does when they see them. “So where to? I’m not gonna lie, I’ve been so burnt out by this university thing,” he rolled his eyes. He sees Yeosang’s hold on you and raises a brow. “Woah, are we interrupting something?”

“Maybe,” you replied cryptically.

“Are you guys together or something?” Jongho blurted out, twirling his car keys on his finger. Leave it to Jongho to be blunt as always.

Yeosang possessively wraps an arm all over your waist from behind and plants his chin on your shoulder. You laughed sheepishly at everybody’s bulged out eyes while Yunho started cackling loudly. “It kinda just happened,” you chuckled.

Yeosang looks at Jongho, who had his eyes narrowed suspiciously. “You gonna do something about it, dad?” He joked, making everyone laugh.

Jongho rolled his eyes dramatically, pinching his nose bridge. “Not only do we have to deal with all the crazy energy this group will have in the future,” he stared pointedly at an excited Mingi, who was shaking Yunho’s collar. “But we also have to deal with you two eye-fucking each other constantly. Spare me the drama, please.”

Suddenly, Jongho and Yeosang stared at each other, a million emotions written in their eyes. You nudge your boyfriend closer to Jongho, giving him a reassuring nod. He shyly rubs the back of his neck before turning to everybody.

“Uhm, I’d love to have company in my place,” he began, causing Jongho to raise a brow. “I’ll send everybody the address, it’s only a fifteen minute drive from here.”

You were proud of Yeosang since he was trying to branch out of his comfort space and trying to let people in now so he could move forward and not get stuck in the past where he was all alone. 

“You’re you again,” Jongho mumbled softly, sighing. “Can’t say I miss when you were stuck up and walked around like everybody was going to jump on you. You were a major dickhead, Sangie.”

Before Yeosang could reply, he turned to the rest of the group, who were already planning what to do and who should bring the snacks and stuff. “Uh, go ahead and drive on without us,” he gestured to himself and Jongho.

He turned to you with a small, serene smile. You could have cried, he didn’t even need to say anything, he looked so much happier from when you first met him when he threatened you at the library. “You go ahead without me, princess—”

“Princess,” Hongjoong blabbered out, his delight evident in his tone while the other started to jokingly and openly mock you both for being too sweet.

“I have a score to settle with this brute—” he tried to continue.

“I’m literally right here,” Jongho counteracted, holding his hand to his chest as if he was offended.

You hopped and kissed Yeosang in front of everybody, which resulted in a hilarious ruckus before pulling away and dragging Yunho away so you could get in the car with him. You looked back at your boyfriend, subtly giving him a thumbs, mouthing ‘I’m proud at you’ before completely turning around.

Both Yeosang and Jongho watched as everyone’s car started to peel out of the parking lot one by one underneath the red setting sun of the sky. It painted such a beautiful picture and it set the mood for what was about to come.

Yeosang had a small sense of dread woven into his nervousness. To be fair, it would have been odd if he wasn’t nervous, this was the first time he was talking to Jongho after he had pretty much ghosted him for months, disappearing on him like he did with Wooyoung.

“Listen,” he started, his anxiety through the roof. “I know you’re mad and you have the right to be, but I want you to know that I’m very sorry.”

It was now or never, his relationship with Jongho was on the line. He loved you, but he can’t just turn his back completely to the other person he grew up with. Jongho sighed, the sound of it harsh and unwelcoming.

“I am, I still am,” the latter huffed out. Yeosang hated it, but he understood why. “At least you know how to grasp the situation and you’re not in denial anymore. You piss me off so damn much, you know?”

“I understand,” he breathed out, kicking a nearby pebble off of the ground onto nowhere in particular. This was it, he thought, he had lost Jongho forever.

However, he wasn’t expecting a nudge on the shoulder and a friendly ruffle of his hair. He groaned, as self-deprecating as he was with his appearance, he hated his hair being messed  up, and Jongho knew that.

“You’re a goddamn fool,” Jongho shook his head after. He choked out a laugh from his chest. “I’m mad at you for doing this to yourself. I’m mad at you for blaming yourself even though it wasn’t your fault. I’m mad at you for letting those assholes bully you and bring you down.”

“But mostly of all,” Jongho spoke in finality. “I’m mad at you for not letting me help and be there for you when you needed it the most.” 

And with that, Jongho finally smiled, his teeth and gums all baring out like the sunshine for him to see. Finally, the last burden off of his shoulders and chest was finally being lifted away. They both laughed out loud as they both got into their cars, which were coincidentally parked next to each other.

“So, you and Y/, huh?” Jongho smirked, the playfulness that Yeosang knew him to have back on his face. How he missed it so. 

“Yeah,” he chuckled, hopping into the driver’s seat and rolling the window down so he could still talk to Jongho. “She’s changed me, you know? I mean, I could tell you all the details—”

“Spare me,” Jongho groaned, honking to stop him from talking. “I get it, but I don’t wanna know all the juicy details of your relationship. Just don’t hurt her, or you’ll get a taste of this.”

He lifted his fists up in the air, waving them around comically and causing Yeosang to laugh out loud so much, his tummy and his sides started to ache and cramp up. This was it, this was all he needed. How had he been such a fool to let all of this go? Suddenly, your face popped up in his mind, and he smiled. He vowed to make you happy, for you had given him so much without knowing and asking for anything in return.

“Where to?” Jongho asked after he turned his car on, the sound of the engine being the background noise of it all. It was so fitting.

“You know my dad’s penthouse? The one near yours?”

Jongho’s eyes bulged out. “That’s where you’ve been staying? Fuck, I should’ve known,” he shook his head. Suddenly, he turned to Yeosang with an impish smirk, the delinquency in his face palpable and hard to miss. “Like the old times?”

Yeosang didn’t get it at first, until Jongho revved his engine, smoke coming out of the exhaust at a faster rate, and he laughed, revving his own engine competitively with a grin. When they were younger, they would race each other anywhere - the streets, a dirt road, anywhere. It wasn’t legal, by all means, because they really were young at one point.

“Loser buys dinner for the entire crew?” Jongho chided, his laughter filling the air.

It was contagious and Yeosang went ahead and pressed on the gas. “Deal.”

Dividers by: @strangergraphics

[womstarave]

here’s a buffet everyone 🫦

[womstarave]

we have the same mind i don’t fear

i hate problems. everything should work out perfectly all of the time

[womstarave]

"strategy" - a mini smau series by @liliesformingi. view series masterlist, and outline here.

step 1: "do my highlight, make me shine so bright in the moonlight." | soccer player!mingi x ballerina!reader

author's note: thank you for all the love and excitement on this series!! it's my very first smau series and i'm super excited to share it with you all, hope you love part 1! also, for context, all dark mode texts are mingi, all light mode texts are the reader! warnings: kms jokes, lowk everyone slanders wooyoung and jeongin (but with love)

taglist: @zelinkcrossing @hyunjiiza @zenlackszen @kur0kki @peskybirdysya @nujeskz @jessxxxfwd @xuchiya @bee-gremlin @radblizzardpizzas-blog | send an ask, dm or comment to be added :)

[womstarave]

oh season 3 bell...

[womstarave]

the longest thing i’ve read on here and i would read it all over again

[Wonderland]

Pairing: Pirate!Kim Hongjoong x Fem!Outlaw!Reader

Genre: Fluff, Angst, Smut, pirate au, lovers to enemies to lovers

Synopsis: You only had one goal in your life, take revenge for your parents death. However, when Kim Hongjoong, the man who you believed had betrayed you, comes back into your life, you find yourself reeling as old wounds, affections and mysteries that you had buried deep into your heart threaten to re-emerge.

Warnings: Blood, gore, death, knives, guns, thievery(the usual pirate stuff), Woosan are dating, reader and Hongjoong are disgustingly down bad for each other, Kingdom Wonderland Hongjoong(this is a warning cause that era is dangerous and can cause death), like two smut scenes(smut warnings below the cut)

Word Count: 19458

Smut Warnings: oral(both receiving), cunnilingus, cum eating, fingering(f receiving), marking, unprotected sex(don’t be sick, cover your dick)

You hated the rain. It always ruined your plans. Perched on the roof of the building opposite the head of the police, Park Jinyoung's house, you were trying to discreetly face his bedroom to get a clear shot. Unfortunately for you, the rain decided to pour down the exact moment you had a clear shot.

The thunder rumbled and Jinyoung woke up with a start. If he turned his head, he could get a clear view of you, suspiciously perched on the roof with a gun pointing in his direction.

You had to hurry before he caught sight of you. You had lost your chance and before you got discovered, you had to get away. You slipped off your perch and hurried to the other side, out of sight.

You unloaded the gun and slipped it back into its case, grabbing your mask and concealing yourself so that only your eyes were visible.

You caught hold of the pipe you used to scale up and slid down as quickly as you could. Hurrying out of the dimly lit alley, you tried to work out which route was the fastest.

Making up your mind, you made a sharp left to walk into another alley. Just to your luck, however, you saw two police coming out of the same alley. You turned on your heel to avoid them and started walking towards the port.

This proved to be a mistake because on the port, a crew of what you assumed was pirates was in an intense fight with the police.

Oh well, you thought, at least no one will pay any attention to you.

Swerving your body so that you could see them but they couldn’t see you, you tried moving past them, silently. You should have kept your focus on yourself and not given in to curiosity because the moment you looked up to get a better view of the crew, you locked eyes with him.

The one person you never thought you would see again.

The one person you never wanted to see again.

Kim Hongjoong.

Hongjoong wasn’t particularly superstitious. He was as realistic as a pirate could be. But even he couldn’t ignore the weird chill that settled in his bones as his ship drew near the land of Utopia.

He told himself that it was because he was visiting this place after a long time. After all, the memories he had here weren’t all that happy.

“Are you alright? You look like you’ve seen a ghost” Seonghwa said.

Hongjoong shook his head. “I’m all right. It’s just, coming back here feels…strange.”

Seonghwa gave him a worried look. “We can turn back, you know.”

“No! I’m fine, seriously. Besides we’re running low on resources. We won’t survive another journey, if we turn back now.”

Seonghwa still looked apprehensive, so Hongjoong tried giving him the most reassuring smile he could manage.

“We're here.” Yunho announced as the ship drew closer to the port.

As the ship docked in the port, Hongjoong’s strange feeling of uneasiness grew. He ignored it the best he could and forced a smile in front of his crew.

“Let’s go. We have a day to collect the supplies we need and meet the people we want to meet. Hurry and be back before nightfall.”

With that, they got off the ship to run their errands.

Almost immediately, things went south. As soon as the ship was out of sight, they were cornered by the Utopian police force, like they’d been waiting for them.

Whipping out his guns, Hongjoong yelled at his crew to fall back, shooting some of the policemen, with San on his side. He saw Mingi, the sniper, climbing up to get a better aim and shot the man following him.

Wooyoung and Yeosang were standing back-to-back shooting at anyone who tried approaching them. Seonghwa and Yunho were already retreating to protect their ship, Aurora. Whereas Jongho, who had somehow used all his bullets was in a hand-to-hand battle.

“Captain, we need to get back to Aurora before they kill us all.” San said.

Hongjoong shook his head, “We can’t afford the risk. If they gain control of Aurora, we’re done for.”

San maneuvered around him, shooting two people at once and then stepped away to help Jongho.

Hongjoong’s eyes swept over the area, trying to find an exit. A mistake because his eyes locked with you. Hongjoong froze in surprise, even though your face was covered with your mask, he recognized you immediately.

Your eyes widened when they met Hongjoong’s and you saw him freeze in place. Tearing your gaze away from him, you saw a man trying to attack him from the behind. Acting on instinct, you pulled out your gun, reloaded it and shot the man through the head in one swift moment.

The other police turned around in surprise, not expecting anyone to save the so called ‘pirate king’. Cursing yourself for drawing attention to yourself when all you wanted was to sneak away, you quickly sidestepped the bullet that flew towards you and shot the man who had tried to shoot you.

Meanwhile, Hongjoong, who had found his bearings again, slipped back into the battle.

“You should go back before they get reinforcements.” You mentioned to Hongjoong casually, as if you were talking about the weather.

“Right. Reinforcements. Yeah. Uh–let’s do that.” The great pirate king stammered.

Walking backwards to not give any chance for the enemy, the two of you quickly made your way to Hongjoong’s crew.

Quickly ordering Ateez to get to the ship, Hongjoong and his crew fought their way back to their ship. You dragged your feet, not wanting to get on the ship but not wanting to stay and get killed either.

As you came closer to the ship, you saw Mingi and Seonghwa hanging from the rigging and shooting any police that dared to come close to the ship with their muskets.

A bullet whizzed by dangerously close to your ear and you twisted around to see a group of police following you. You stopped in your tracks, turned around and started picking off the police closest to you.

Hongjoong, who hadn’t noticed this, kept running to the ship and jumped on. Before he realised that he had left you behind, the Aurora started pulling out of the port.

Honjoong heard Mingi yell something and looked up, to see Mingi climbing down shouting something at him.

“What?” Hongjoong asked.

“–Y/n! You left– “Before Mingi could complete his sentence, Hongjoong had already jumped off the ship and started swimming back to the land, back to you.

You shot a man who was running in the direction of the ship and turned around to warn Hongjoong, only to see the Aurora pull out of the harbor, with none of your (temporary) allies in sight.

“Of course”, you gritted out, “of course he would leave you, Y/n, you’re a fool for thinking he wouldn’t.”

You knew you had to get out of here, soon. In your haste to escape, however, you made a fatal mistake. You swear that you looked away for only a second but that was enough for a bullet to hit you in the leg.

Your leg gave out on you and you almost collapsed in pain. Managing to not fall down despite the unbearable pain, you tried limping away, blindly shooting in all directions.

You were clearly not thinking logically because you would have never wasted your bullets like that if you had your wits around. Hongjoong’s reappearance and his betrayal (again), combined with your leg injury was affecting you more than you initially believed.

However, loss of bullets aside, it proved to be a somewhat useful choice because you were able to limp away and sneak into a hidden alley.

You leaned against a wall which hid you and caught your breath, trying to assess the extent of your injuries. You had a few shallow cuts on your face, hands and hips but the main problem was your leg. The bullet had thankfully not cut through any bone, but it had dug in your muscle and was stuck. The bleeding hadn’t stopped and from what little you knew about healing, you knew that if you tried to remove the bullet, you might risk losing your leg for good. You had to find a healer, fast. For the time being, though, you tore the sleeve of your shirt and made a makeshift bandage. You hoped that it would be enough for now.

Next, you tried thinking about a way out. You had no doubt that your hiding spot would be discovered soon enough and the more you stayed here, the more dangerous it was. However, you couldn’t exactly leave because there were police out trying to find you. You couldn’t sneak out nor could you escape them with the way your leg was. The only option you had was scaling the wall to travel by roofs which, again, wasn’t a very practical way.

Since you were running out of time, you decided that you had to scale the wall if you wanted to live. The rope that you carried around for this purpose was definitely not the best option but it would have to do. You neatly tied one end of the rope into a knot and threw it so that it fit around the edge of the ledge just below the roof. Then, you tied the other end around your body to keep you from falling.

“I know you’re here, little snake. Come out before we find you and maybe we’ll let you live.” You heard a someone sing faux sweetly, their voice twisted with disgust.

You had to move fast before they found you. Ignoring the flaring pain in your leg, you forced yourself to start scaling the wall. It turned out that you were a minute too late because when you climbed halfway, you heard a patter of footsteps and the police arrived.

“Oh there she is. Told you we’d find her here.” A policeman said, smugly. “Come down, little outlaw, don’t make us mad.”

You kept climbing, the mix of adrenaline and fear giving you a speed boost. You heard someone click their tongue, like a disapproving parent. A policeman threw a knife at you, trying to cut the rope but missing and the knife buried itself in your back, making you cough blood out. Or maybe they were aiming for your back, in which case, they had achieved their target perfectly.

“Don’t kill her you idiot! Our orders are to bring her alive.” Another police, seemingly of higher rank, reprimanded him.

“I can’t wait to see what the legendary outlaw, Halazia looks like under that mask.” A voice gloated.

“Why do you always call me Halazia? What does it even mean?” You asked Hongjoong, smiling softly when he dropped a kiss on your lips.

“Do you know that you’re the light of my life, love?” Hongjoong asked.

You blushed. “What does that have to do with my question? Are you trying to avoid it? Now I’m even more curious.” You said in mock offense.

Hongjoong just laughed and pulled you in a kiss that made you forget about anything else.

You shook your head, snapping out of it. Now wasn’t the time for reminiscing, especially not about the man who was the reason of your predicament. Panting heavily, you pulled yourself on the ledge with difficulty. Immediately, you collapsed, your body giving up on you.

You heard some thumping down and idly wondered if they were following you up. Barely mustering up the energy to pull out your dagger, you prepared yourself to die as there was no way you would let them take you alive.

“Wait! Please don’t! It’s me, Y/n It’s me, Hongjoong.” A frantic voice called out.

You could recognize that voice anywhere, no matter what. Great, now you were imagining things too.

“You’re not imagining things, love, I’m really here.”

What…? “Hongjoong?” You rasped out.

“Yes. I'm going to pick you up now; it might hurt a little.” He replied and you were gently picked up by a pair of strong arms.

Hongjoong quickly made his way down, as gently as he could to not hurt you more. The feeling of panic he had been experiencing all day got worse when he saw how badly you were bleeding.

“How are you here? I thought you left again.” You mumbled, the delirium from pain making you emotional vulnerable and painfully honest.

Hongjoong felt a pang in his heart at your vulnerable state.

He hurried on, picking up his pace. He had to get you on the ship, to Yeosang, the healer. He couldn’t lose you again. Your head rolled to a side, your eyes closing involuntarily.

“Don’t close your eyes please, Y/n. Please. I can’t watch you die” Hongjoong pleaded.

Hongjoong burst through the door of your childhood house, his eyes searching for you desperately. The moment he saw you, he ran towards you, pulling you close to him.

“Thank god, you’re all right, Y/n. I was looking everywhere for you. I thought I–“

“They’re hanging my parents tomorrow. Jinyoung was successful in framing them.” You cut him off, your voice emotionless. “I’m sure they’ll come for me next. Jinyoung wouldn’t leave me alive.”

“Let’s run away then, Y/n, please. We were going to leave soon anyways. We can leave sooner. The Aurora is almost completely built and I can tell the others that we need to leave earlier. I’m sure they’ll understand, Y/n, please, they love you. Please, darling, I can’t watch you die.” Hongjoong pleaded.

You had to pull yourself out of your memories once again. Your delirium was making you remember things you would much rather forget.

You also knew that Hongjoong had a point. If you let your eyes close and let yourself drift away, you might not come back. You fought against your body, which was telling you to rest, with every bit of your remaining will.

Hongjoong reached the port, and boarded the ship, taking you to the infirmary on the ship.

“Yeosang! Come here quickly.” He ordered

Yeosang hurried towards you, assessing your injuries. He glanced at Hongjoong who was hovering around nervously.

“You’re distracting me, Captain. Get out.” He said firmly.

“I-ok.” Hongjoong turned away from you and walked back on to the hull of the ship. He wanted to stay beside you but he knew that that would only disturb Yeosang and besides he had a job to do.

Hongjoong walked towards the man who was kneeling on the hull of his ship, hands and legs tied. The same man who had thrown a knife to your back.

He stopped a little away and watched as San punched the man straight on his face. The man’s pained whimper almost drew a smile out of Hongjoong.

He walked up to them and whispered to San, “I’ll take care of him.”

San nodded and stepped away. Hongjoong faced the man with a dark smirk. He untied the man and offered to help him up. The man watched his hand warily, choosing to stand up on his own. Bad move. Hongjoong’s smirk widened as he slapped the man hard with the same hand he had offered help with.

The anger that he had been barely suppressing after seeing you hurt had burst out like a volcano.

“I’m going to ask this once and only once. Tell me who tipped you off about us and who ordered you to attack us.” Hongjoong said.

“And what makes you think I’ll tell you that?” The man leered.

"Oh I see what this is. You’re not afraid of us yet, huh.”

Taking out his dagger, Hongjoong circled the man humming thoughtfully. “Hmm, let’s see. You stabbed her somewhere here, didn’t you?” He asked, plunging the dagger in and out of the man’s back, causing blood to spurt out.

The man fell down, crying in pain.

Hongjoong took out his gun, putting is dagger away. “And you shot her…. was it this leg?” He shot the man in his leg.

“Oh, oops! I made a mistake. It was the other leg. Guess I’ll have to rectify that.” Hongjoong said, shooting the man in the other leg too.

The man was sobbing on the floor, a mix of blood, sweat, tears and drool pooling around him. “Please! Please don’t kill me, please. I’ll tell you everything! It was Park Jinyoung. We were just following orders.”

“Oh? I never said I was going to kill you, did I?” Hongjoong said, in mock surprise.

“Please just let me go.” The man begged, weakly.

“Let you go?” Hongjoong murmured as if he was contemplating. “I’ll let you go alright.”

The man sobbed in relief, thinking that he was saved. He was proven to be mistaken however, because Hongjoong stepped over the pool of blood, picked the man up and tossed him in the sea.

For a moment, there was complete silence. Hongjoong turned to his crew members. “What? I let him go, just like he wanted me to.” He said innocently.

“Well, couldn’t you have chosen a less dirty way of doing that? I’m the one who has to clear the whole mess up.” Wooyoung whined, drawing a laugh out of Hongjoong.

At that moment, Yeosang stepped out gaining everyone’s attention. “Y/n's going to be fine. I healed her wounds but she needs to rest to recover all the blood she lost. So don’t go in there and risk waking her up. Let her rest.” He announced.

When you woke up, you were sleeping in an unknown bed and the floor was rocking gently. You turned your head around to get a better look at your surroundings. The dimly lit room looked like an infirmary but all the beds, except yours, were empty. The décor was unique, almost reminding you of– Oh. 

You were on board the Aurora.  

The haziness in your brain slowly decreased as you remembered what had happened. You helped Ateez. They left you. You were going to die. But then…. he came back? 

The fact that Hongjoong came back for you left you dumbfounded. It caused a flurry of a lot of complicated confusing feelings inside you; feelings that you thought you had already gotten rid of. 

“Oh, you’re up.” A voice said from the door. 

You shot up and then immediately slumped against the bed as you felt your head spin.  

“Wait no! Don’t get up. Yeosang said that you need to rest to recover.” Hongjoong said, panicked. 

“How long was I out?” You asked, internally cringing at how gravelly your voice sounded. 

“About half a day. Are you feeling better now?” He asked, his voice weirdly soft. 

 The softness in his eyes and voice was throwing you off, the image of him that you had so carefully built in your mind to protect yourself had started to crack. 

“Why did you come back? I thought leaving people behind when they need you was your speciality?” You tried making your voice harsh but it came off as miserable more than anything. 

Hongjoong didn’t react, almost making you think you hadn’t said anything at all. Instead, with a careful voice he said, “You should rest more. We’ll talk in the morning.” 

“We’ll talk now.” You said, firmly. 

“I had forgotten how stubborn you could be.” Hongjoong scoffed. “Fine. We’ll talk now but after that you have to get some rest.” 

You knew that if you resisted, Hongjoong would just leave so you gave a single small nod.  

“What do you want to know?” Hongjoong asked. 

“Start at the beginning.” You replied. 

“The beginning? You mean– “  

You cut Hongjoong off. “Why are Jinyoung’s men after you?” 

“Oh. That. Well, I've been attacking his ships. Also, he just dislikes me.” Hongjoong smirked. 

“Why? I thought you and him were best of friends?” You asked, sarcastically. 

Hongjoong just shrugged, not giving you an answer.  

You stared at him, waiting. You realized that you weren’t getting an answer out of him and you packed that information away in your brain. 

You changed your approach. “Why did you come back for me?” 

“Why did you help us?” He challenged. 

This was getting you nowhere. Besides your mind was too addled to answer his(or yours) questions. 

You sighed. “This conversation isn’t over. We’ll talk again in the morning.” 

Hongjoong fought back a smile and stood up, walking out and closing the door behind him. Once the door was closed, you slumped down regretting getting outwitted. 

This won’t do, you decided. You couldn’t get put off your game when you goal was so close. You had to somehow stay alive while outwitting both Jinyoung and Hongjoong. You were too close to give up. 

You woke up as soon as the sun rose, feeling much better. You got off the bed and walked towards the mirror, to assess your condition. Yeosang had done a really good job of healing you. Apart from a few trivial scratches that he didn’t bother to heal(not that you wanted him to considering how tired he must have been after trying to keep you alive), you were completely alright. 

Next, you had to work on the issue of your clothes. The clothes you were wearing were in a bad condition thanks to the fight yesterday. Or was it the day before?  

Your glanced around the room, hoping to find something you could wear. You spotted a pile of clean clothes beside your bed and wondered how you had missed it. You picked up the clothes to examine them. You had no doubt they were Hongjoong’s, indicated by the little ‘hj’ on the collar. 

You sighed. You really didn’t want to wear his clothes ever again but you had no choice.  

Just as you were buttoning up the shirt, Hongjoong walked in. He saw you and stopped looking like a deer caught in headlights.  His eyes ran over your figure and his lips parted, letting out a huff. 

You smirked. “My eyes are up here, you know.” 

His eyes shot up to yours and he acted nonchalant as he turned away but you caught sight of the redness of his ears and barely suppressed a giggle. 

Buttoning up your(his) shirt and tucking it in your(his) pants, you told him to turn around. You had stuff to do and getting distracted by a very attractive pirate wasn’t on your agenda. 

You walked towards a chair settling down and motioned for Hongjoong to take a seat opposite you. 

Hongjoong sat down and you let your eyes meet his, waiting. 

“So…” He begins awkwardly. 

“Where are we?” You ask, your voice bland. 

Hongjoong looks surprised, he hadn’t expected your talk to go this way. “Just off the coast of Utopia. We’re waiting to see when we can go back.” 

“I know a place where you can dock. It’s a little far off from the city but your ship will be safe and undiscovered there.” You said, all business. 

“I–ok. Why are you helping us?” Hongjoong asked, seriously. 

You shrugged. “You saved and healed me. I owe you.” 

“You saved us first and only got hurt because of that. You owe us nothing.” He fired back. 

“Then let’s just say that I want to get back as soon as possible and cooperating with you is the only way I have.” You replied. 

“Ok.” Hongjoong said. 

“Okay….?” 

“Don’t you have more to say?” Hongjoong asked, confused. He had expected this conversation to go like the last one the two of you had. 

“Oh, yes, where are my things? Return them to me.” You said and gave Hongjoong the directions to the dock you were talking about.  

It was an old dock which was used before the city shifted away and soon it was forgotten. You had found it on an accident when you were searching for a place to use as your hideout. 

“I’ll tell Yeosang to return your things.” Hongjoong said, pulling you out of your thoughts. 

When Yeosang entered the room, he was met with your smile.  

“Thank you, Sang–uh, I mean Yeosang, you saved my life.” You said, gratefully. 

He handed you your things. “You can call me Sangie, you know. Or have I lost that privilege? And I did not think you needed to thank me for anything.” He said, fornoly. 

Your smile dropped. “I do need to thank you now. Also, I don’t think we–any of us–are on a nickname basis.” 

That seemed to anger Yeosang. “Why aren’t we? We used to be best friends, Y/n, all of us. You know us. Do you really think we turned into whatever image you’ve painted of us?”  

“I never painted any image of you, Yeosang. You say we used to be best friends but tell me why I’ve never heard a word from any of you all this time. You're talking to me now because I’m on your ship after helping you guys escape but would you have talked to me if I hadn’t helped you? Hell, even if you hadn’t been attacked at all. Would you have talked to me if you were in Utopia right now like you planned to be?” You scoffed. 

“I would have. We would have.” Yeosang said, confidently. 

“Sure, keep telling yourself that.” You answered coldly and brushed past him to go to the deck. 

Yeosang sighed. He knew you had a point and he was sure you were not going to treat any of them as your friends before your misunderstanding was cleared. He had no idea how to do that, though, since you would not believe anything they said.  

Yeosang had to find a way to fix things because even though none of them said it, your presence(or the lack of it) was felt deeply by everyone. You were a part of the crew. No, you created the crew with Hongjoong, you were practically the co-captain. Even though you wanted nothing to do with them, you had saved them. Yeosang hoped that that was a sign that you did not hate them as much as you pretended to.  

You stood at the deck, staring at the waves as you tried to organize your thoughts. You had figured out that whatever you thought about your the crew might be a misunderstanding. But you also knew that you had a point. If it was a misunderstanding why didn’t they contact you? Why did they not explain themselves immediately? 

It was the day you had decided to run away with Hongjoong and the kids. Hongjoong had convinced you to run away, to come back and take your revenge later. After all, he had said, revenge is a dish best served cold. And you had believed him. You believed him when he said he loved you and you believed him when he said he was completely and always your side. 

The Aurora was ready to sail and you were hiding in your quarters because if you were spotted by Jinyoung’s men, it would put everyone in danger. 

You had dared to hope. Hope that you would be alright, if not now then soon. As long as you had Hongjoong and your crew you’d be able to face everything. Oh, how naïve you were. 

It was departing time and you waited for the ship to start. However, you could not feel the gentle motions which would have Indicated your freedom. Instead, the ship stood still and your anxiety grew. You tried to convince yourself that there must be some minor problem or even that you had miscalculated the time and it wasn’t departure time yet. 

You heard the banging footsteps of someone coming closer and flinched. You knew that it wasn’t one of your team because their footsteps were never this loud. You scrambled to pick up your knives as you mentally searched for a route of escape.  

As the footsteps grew closer, you positioned yourself behind the door so that you could launch your attack right away. 

The door swung open and a tall, burly man wearing the uniform of the police walked in, holding his gun up. As you drove your dagger in his neck, you mind was already in an overdrive. No doubt Jinyoung had found out about your plan. Saving the crew, especially Hongjoong, was the only thing that your focus zeroed on as you hurried to the deck.  

If you weren’t so frantic, you would have noticed how tranquil it was. There were no sounds of struggle at all. It was as if there were no invaders on the ship. 

You were met with the most dumbfounding sight when you climbed on the deck. The crew and the police were standing side by side, as if there wasn’t any enmity between them. What was even stranger was Hongjoong and Jinyoung talking to each other like they were friends. Hongjoong was laughing like he had no worries in the world, like he hadn’t just betrayed you.  

Your footsteps came to a halt as your brain took in the entire scene. The shock was enough to momentarily disable you from doing anything and that’s when Jinyoung spotted you. 

“Oh there’s the lady of the hour!” He sneered. “What did you do to the man I sent to fetch you? Don’t tell me you killed him. That’ll just add to your long list of crimes.” 

“That would please you, wouldn’t it? To have an actual crime to convict me of.” You spat out, mirroring his sneer. 

Jinyoung actually laughed at that, his laugh dry and cruel. “Come on boys, catch her.”  

“Don’t forget our deal.” Hongjoong's melodious voice rang out. 

Jinyoung rolled his eyes and nodded. 

Your head snapped towards Hongjoong, even as you were struggling to escape. “What have you done, Kim Hongjoong?”  

“Oh my dear, I have done nothing but make a deal.” He said, calmly. 

“What deal?”  

“It was a very easy deal, in fact, the safety of my crew in exchange for you.” He grinned.  

The crew looked at you with mixed emotions of pity and apology but they did not make a single move to go against their captain.  

“What about us then, Hongjoong?” You asked, dreading the answer but also looking forward to it so that your heart could finally break and you’d be free from the torturous clutches of hope. 

“Us?” Hongjoong scoffed. “What us? Ok, I’ll admit, I had fun fooling around with you but do you really think I would love a traitor’s child who is a wanted criminal? I did not think you were that stupid, Y/n.” 

You take it back. You would've rather that he said nothing at all. You shouldn’t have asked, because you were sure that the pain in your heart was lethal. Ironic, wasn't it, that you realised the true extent of your feelings for Hongjoong when he was crushing your heart to smithereens and laughing about it. 

If looks could kill, Hongjoong would have dropped dead. Your glare was burning, rage and betrayal and pain pouring out of your eyes. Even as you were dragged away, your eyes never left Hongjoong’s, burning through his soul. 

You brought yourself back with a sigh. No, you decided, you were not mistaken. There was no way it could be a misunderstanding when even just thinking about it broke your heart all over again as if it was happening to you right now. You were just starting to recover from his betrayal that had left you a shell of the person you were before. You would not subject yourself to more suffering at Hongjoong’s hands. You had had enough heartache. 

You stood at the deck just staring at the waves and feeling the breeze on your face long enough for the ship to pull in the port and for Hongjoong to approach you. 

He cleared his throat. “We’re here.”  

You let your disinterested gaze settle on him. “Well I guess this is it then.” 

“Right. Uh, yes. I just–“ He swallowed. 

“Don’t. Whatever you’re going to say just don’t.” You cut him off. 

“Can you at least let me explain? I’ll never bother you again, if that’s what you want. Please.” He pleaded. 

The anger you had tried to suppress burst out at that. “What do you want to explain Hongjoong? The part where you handed me off to Jinyoung without another thought? The part where you told me that whatever we had was just ‘fooling around’? Or the part where you said that you could never love the child of a criminal? Just what do you want to explain?” You snapped at him, making him flinch imperceptibly.  

But Hongjoong was never the one to back off from a challenge. “Well, you’re alive right now aren’t you?” 

You actually laughed at that. “Tell me Hongjoong,” You said looking at him straight in the eye. “Do I look alive to you right now?” 

Hongjoong had heartbreak written all over his face and you had to fight the urge to laugh again. You could not believe the audacity of his to look heartbroken after what he had done.  

“Just…I know you probably wouldn’t believe me but I just want you to know. I love you. Always have, always will.” Hongjoong said softly. 

“It’s not that I don’t believe you. I can’t believe you.” You turned and walked away before you could see his face fall. 

As soon as the ship stopped, you climbed off.  

Hongjoong saw you get off the ship and he was reminded of the last time he saw you, when you were getting dragged off. 

It was the day before Hongjoong and you had planned to leave with the kids. Hongjoong was on cloud nine because you were going to be alright and with him. He was sure that the plan had succeeded and Jinyoung had no idea about your plan. Nothing could go wrong and the nine of you would finally be happy. Or so he thought. 

Hongjoong stepped out of the house you were hiding in and as discreetly as possible, he made his way to the main street. He still had to gather some supplies for tomorrow. 

He felt someone following him and took a detour. He had to be careful to make sure no one knew anything about the plan.  

He kept his footsteps calm and acted like he hadn’t realised anyone was following him. He turned a sharp right which would hide him for a moment and swiftly hid in an alley, silently. 

The follower stepped around the turn and when he couldn’t see Hongjoong, his footsteps fastened as he sped past the alley without another glance.  

Making sure that there was no one following him any more, Hongjoong breathe a sigh of relief. He stepped out and took a different route to the market.  

However things went wrong almost immediately. As soon as Hongjoong had stepped in a different alley he was cornered by a dozen of men. He recognized them from their uniform. Police. Jinyoung’s men. 

Though Hongjoong was sure that no one knew of your whereabouts except his crew, he still felt a pang of fear when he thought about you. He hoped that you were alright.  

“Well looks like the prey finally stepped in the trap.” Jinyoung’s sneering voice sounded. 

Hongjoong glared at him. 

“Now, now stop giving me that look. I’m only here to talk.”  

“Ah yes, because having a dozen swords pointed at my throat puts me in a great mood to talk.” Hongjoong replied sarcastically. 

Jinyoung actually had the nerve to laugh at that. He ordered his men to drop their weapons.  

“Now Hongjoong. Let’s make a deal shall we? I know that you are planning to smuggle Y/n out tomorrow in your ship.” Jinyoung said. 

Hongjoong realized that Jinyoung had no idea where you were if he had to come find Hongjoong like this. “A deal huh? You must be truly desperate. What if the people find that you cornered an innocent civilian and threatened him like this?” He said, acting like he wasn’t affected. 

Jinyoung sighed. “Fine. I didn’t want to take it this far but you leave me with no choice. Either you help me or I will bring the entire force of the police on your ship tomorrow and massacre your crew. And I will make your beloved beg for death in front of you. Or should I make you beg for death in front of Y/n?” 

Hongjoong blanched at the mention of you. He realized just how much he had underestimated Jinyoung. They should have had been more careful. Of course Jinyoung would know that they were planning to set sail tomorrow morning. Of course he would doubt that they were smuggling you out. Practically everyone knew how close the nine of you were. And Jinyoung had been your father’s friend. He had witnessed firsthand the bond between the nine of you. 

Jinyoung continued like nothing had happened. “Or you could help us and we’ll let the eight of you go free. We’ll never be of any hindrance to you. Tell you what, I’ll even make sure that Y/n remains alive. The decision is yours.” 

“Why would you go to such lengths to get Y/n and then promise that she remains alive?” Hongjoong asked, confused.  

“Oh, kid, you have no idea of how the world works do you? Your betrayal would be a far worse torture for her than anything that I could come up with. Now, we’re running out of time. Make your decision.” Jinyoung laughed cruelly. 

Hongjoong knew what he was going to do would tear apart you and him in the process. He knew that neither of you would be the same again. But he told himself that it was better than seeing you die. At least you’d be alive. You’d hate him but you’d be ok. That’s all he could wish for.  

Hongjoong took a deep breath, readying himself. “Fine. I’ll cooperate with you. But if you ever break our deal, ever, I will find you. And I will tear you apart limb from limb and deliver your remains to your house.” 

The glint in his eyes had Jinyoung shivering and he wondered for the first time if he had threatened the wrong person.  

Hongjoong walked out of the valley and went back to his house, where the rest of Ateez had gathered. They looked up surprised when their captain showed without the supplies and he explained what he had done. There was a lot or anger and a lot of tears but a look of mutual understanding passed between them. They understood why Hongjoong had done that. He knew they would. After all they loved you too. 

When he saw you being dragged away, he clenched his fist, fingers digging into his skin to stop from reacting. He had to stop the disgust that welled up in him when Jinyoung laughed and the pain that overcame his heart when he saw the betrayal in your eyes. He clenched his fist tighter and did not stop even when his fingernails broke the skin and blood started dripping down his hands. 

Hongjoong knew that this would be the last time he would see you so he drank in your features, committing you to memory. He forced himself to not flinch when he saw the hatred in your eyes directed at him. He accepted it all and told himself that this was the least he deserved.  

Hongjoong pulled himself out of his memories. He knew that it would do no good to anyone now. You would not listen if he tried explaining and you had every right to. Besides, it would just sound like excuses or worse, lies to you. 

So he made a promise that even if he had lost you forever, he could still help you without you knowing. He could love you from afar. That would be enough.  

You travelled through the thick forest as fast as you could.  You knew for a fact that Jinyoung had no idea that Yeosang had healing powers so that meant that you had the advantage of time. He wouldn’t be expecting you to be back on your feet so soon. In fact, he might even think that you had died. His guard would be low so you couldn’t waste this chance. As much as you hated meeting Hongjoong again and as much as you hated the fact that seeing him again made you realise you still loved him, you had to admit that one good thing came out of it. 

Your thoughts turned to Hongjoong and the crew. You wondered if he still needed something to hug to sleep. You wondered if he still overworked himself and wished he didn’t because you could no longer help him. And then you cursed yourself for still caring about him. You cursed yourself for opening your heart again just after meeting him once. But you couldn’t forget how he had held you close when he came back to save you. How he had begged you not to close your eyes. And how he was so careful with you as if you would break any moment. 

Turns out, your treacherous heart was your worst enemy after all because it still longed for him. 

You had to focus, you told yourself. You had to be very careful if you didn’t want Jinyoung to discover you before you were ready and getting distracted would be dangerous. You had to put your feelings aside for the moment.  

Swiftly making your way out of the forest thanks to the trail you had memorized, you soon reached the outskirts of the town.  

Slipping off your usual mask and outfit, you opted for an outfit that looked like a normal girl’s. You did not need your mask because you were sure that nobody knew of your identity. No one had unmasked Halazia and lived to tell the tale and you knew that Jinyoung hadn’t told of your real identity to his men.  

Mingling with the crowd, you made your way to your hideout making sure no one noticed you and even if they did, all they saw was a simple town girl.  

You slipped inside the house that everyone thought was dilapidated making it the perfect hideout. You still made sure no one saw you, though, because that would attract unnecessary attention. 

You walked inside, spotting a note from  Lee Minho who was your informant and old friend. No one except you knew that Minho was still alive because like you Jinyoung had killed his family. He had put Minho’s house on fire and Minho had barely survived but his family died. 

Minho knew that you were Halazia. So he agreed in helping you take both of your revenge.  

You took care of the actual ‘killing’ part, while Minho provided you with whatever information you needed. The two of you communicated through notes that you left for each other in the hideout, like this. 

The note that Minho had left you read: “There are rumours that you died. Jinyoung seems to believe so. I don’t. I know you’re alive. Jinyoung has lowered the security. His wife and daughter are out of town.” 

You knew exactly what Minho was saying. Since the security was low and Jinyoung’s family was out of town, this was the perfect chance to attack. You had already made it clear to Minho that you weren’t going to harm his wife or daughter since they were pretty much innocent. 

You decided that you would launch your attack tonight. You left a note for Minho that simply said: “I’m alive” and made your way out of the hideout after donning the outfit that you used when you were Halazia. 

The sun was almost setting and soon it would be dark. It had taken you an entire day to reach the town, even with the trail you had marked so you knew that Hongjoong and the crew would still be stuck trying to find their way out. 

You climbed on the roof of a building, choosing your preferred way of traveling by the roofs to reach Jinyoung’s house. 

You slipped in through the back door, quickly picking the lock. You wanted to see the look Jinyoung would have on his face as you drove your dagger through his heart and shooting him from afar would not give you the same pleasure. You wanted to hear him beg for his life. 

You walked towards his study, keeping your footsteps silent. You thought he’d be alone but you were surprised when you heard the voice of the vice-captain of the police talking to him 

You hid behind the door, listening in. 

“Is Halazia dead?” You heard the vice-captain ask. 

“Yes.” Jinyoung chortled. “And you know the funniest thing? She died thinking that Hongjoong had actually betrayed her.”  

So Jinyoung did think you had died. You wondered what he meant when he said that you ‘thought’ Hongjoong had betrayed you.  

“What do you mean?” The confusion in the vice captain’s voice mirrored your own. 

“Oh did I not tell you?” Jinyoung cackled, the entire story coming out with gleeful laughs. 

Each word that came out of his voice made your heart sink lower and lower. Funny how you found out that Hongjoong had not betrayed you after burning the last bridge of reconciliation between the two of you. 

“Some of my men saw Hongjoong’s ship heading towards the old port. Safe to say that the crew won’t be coming out of the forest alive.” The vice-captain said after he had gotten over the shock of Jinyoung’s revelation. 

You felt the coil of dread grow tighter around your heart. You could not let Hongjoong or the kids die. Not after what you had just learned. You had to see him and apologise for the way you had treated him after everything he had done for you. Even if he wanted nothing to do with you after you had talked, you couldn’t, you wouldn’t, forgive yourself if anything happened to him 

You were out of the house before you could hear Jinyoung’s reply. You travelled as fast as your legs could take you, reaching the outskirts of the forest in half the time you would usually take.  

You scanned the forest trying to figure out where your crew could be. They couldn’t have come out already since they were not aware of your trail. You just hoped that they hadn’t gotten themselves lost or worse killed. 

Tracking the crew would be much more difficult so you decided to track the police. The men Jinyoung had sent wouldn’t know the first thing about being discreet and would stick to the common but longer route. If you found them, you would find the crew. 

Swiftly making your way to the common trail, you found numerous footsteps that indicated that you were right. Jinyoung’s men had passed by here and not a huge amount of time had passed as the footsteps were still fresh. If you hurried, you might be able to catch them.  

You followed the footsteps, going deeper in the forest. Soon, you heard sounds that sounded like fighting. You picked up your pace, slipping in the shadows to not get discovered. 

You had turned out to be right, your crew was indeed ambushed but they were fighting back and weren’t losing.  

You climbed up a tree that gave you range and cover, pulling out your gun. You had only ten bullets and you had to make each of them count. 

You looked at your crew, figuring out who needed your help the most.  

Your eyes fell on Hongjoong who was holding his own against three men and forced yourself to look away, telling yourself that he was fine. 

Wooyoung and San were back-to-back working efficiently, needing no help at all. 

Jongho was fighting alone but Mingi, who was up in a tree like you, no doubt was carrying out his duties as a sniper perfectly and helping Jongho.  

You spotted Seonghwa and Yeosang a few meters away. Yeosang was healing Seonghwa who had a bullet wound in his leg. You saw five of Jinyoung’s men heading towards them and you scoffed at the nerve of attacking a healer. 

You readied your aim and started picking off the men who were trying to harm a healer. Five bullets gone, five men down.  

You turned back towards the fight, half of your bullets used. You saw Yunho getting cornered and scrambled to help him, shooting two men, leaving him to deal with the other two. A man was about to attack Jongho from the back and Mingi hadn’t noticed so you took care of him 

With just one bullet remaining, you turned towards Hongjoong. You felt the fear course through your body when you saw that more than half of the men were focusing on attention. 

You one remaining bullet wasn’t going to be of much help but you fired it anyway. You slid down the tree, pulling out your daggers and rushed to help Hongjoong. 

You jumped into the fight, immediately stabbing two men, your daggers singing. The men were surprised, they hadn’t expected you to suddenly appear. Their shock gave you an advantage and you cut through them quickly, making your way to Hongjoong. 

Hongjoong was doing really good at holding them off and you noticed that thankfully he didn’t seem too hurt. He looked up and his eyes locked with you and he froze.  

You pulled him away from a sword just in time and sent a dagger flying at the man. That snapped Hongjoong out of his trance and he quickly joined you in defeating the men. 

The odds were turning in your favour but then you saw Wooyoung get stabbed and fall to the ground. No one except you had noticed and as the man who stabbed Wooyoung bent to finish him off, you sent your dagger flying to his heart and prayed that it found him before his did Wooyoung. 

Your dagger found it’s mark and the man fell before he could hurt Wooyoung more. San noticed and ran to protect his boyfriend. 

In your haste to save Wooyoung however, you lost sight of the man you were fighting and he sent a bullet flying towards you. Hongjoong pulled you out of harm’s way but the bullet grazed his cheek drawing blood. He sent a bullet of his own towards the man and the man crumpled.  

You had no time to worry about that right now though as the two of you ran to help San. Yeosang had successfully healed Seonghwa and the two had joined Yunho. The eight of you, excluding Wooyoung, managed to beat back the remaining attackers. 

After scouring the area to make sure there were no attackers left and catching your breath, you leaned over Wooyoung to assess his injuries.  

The crew looked like they had questions for you but you gave them a look that said, ‘later’. 

“Yeosang, do you think you could heal Wooyoung right now?” Hongjoong asked, focusing on the priority. 

“Well, I could try but I doubt I’d be able to. My healing isn’t strong enough right now and it’s pretty much exhausted.” Yeosang answered, solemnly. 

“Even if you could, it wouldn’t help.” You spoke up. “Your healing only deals with wounds not poisons, doesn’t it? Look at the area around the wound, it’s blue. The dagger was poisoned.” 

“What? I do keep a few antidotes on the ship but it’s too far away right. Besides I don’t even know much about poisons, our poison expert was always….” Yeosang trailed off. 

“Me.” You completed. “You’re right, Sangie, the ship is too far away. Which is why we have to go to the town. I can get the poison out of him and then you can heal his wound.” 

You were met with seven dumbfounded faces. 

You rolled your eyes. “We don’t have time, guys. We need to move quickly.” 

“Right. San carry Wooyoung. Yunho and Seonghwa, watch our backs. Mingi, make sure no one is following us. Yeosang and I will guard the front. And Y/n…. I suspect you know a faster way to get to wherever you’re taking us, don’t you?” Hongjoong said, not even stopping to doubt you and the crew followed, all of them trusting you completely. 

Your heart melted at how quick they were to trust you even after everything that had happened. If you didn’t have more pressing matters at hand, you would have burst into tears for finally having your family back. Instead, you just blinked away the moistness in your eyes and started finding the trail you had marked. 

As quickly as you could, the nine of you made your way out. Soon you reached the outskirts of the forest. 

“We need to be careful from here. Jinyoung thinks that I’m dead and he must be thinking the same about you guys because you were ambushed. We need to make sure he doesn’t find out we're alive before we’re ready to let him know.” You spoke. 

The crew nodded. “Can we get there without attracting attention?” Hongjoong asked. 

“If we’re smart about it, yes.” You replied, already trying to work out the way you should take. You cast a longing look at the roofs before looking at the alleys. Thankfully, Utopia had a lot of secret alleys, most of which you knew like the back of your hand. 

You told your crew to be quite as you lead them to the alley. They followed, silent and quick as mice. 

Mapping out the twisting alleys in your head, you took them to your house without anyone noticing. 

As soon as you were in, you got to business.  

“San and Yeosang follow me. The rest just make yourself at home.” You ordered, leading San and Yeosang to the room you used as your infirmary. 

You told San to lay Wooyoung down on the singular bed and checked the wound. The poison hadn’t spread too far but you could already see the effects it was having on Wooyoung. He was having a high fever and the paralysis would set in soon. You had to be quick. 

You hurried to the cabinet where you stored the ingredients used for the antidote and took them out making an antidote as quick as you could. You had San make Wooyoung drink the antidote.  

You stepped back and prayed for the antidote to work. You told Yeosang to heal Wooyoung's wound and waited as he worked his magic. Wooyoung’s wound disappeared, leaving only a scar.  

It seemed like hours had passed when the bluish blemishes on Wooyoung’s skin started to fade. The antidote had worked. You breath out a sigh of relief and told Yeosang to go rest.  

Then you turned to San. “He’s going to be fine, but it’ll take some time for the poison to get completely out of his system and for the fever to reduce. It might even take the entire night. I could look over him if you want to rest.” You said softly. 

He shook his head, holding Wooyoung’s hand tightly. “No. It’s alright, Y/n, I’ll stay with him.” You could hear the unshed tears in his voice. 

“Ok.” You said, voice softer. “If you need anything or even if you just want someone to talk to, don’t hesitate to call out. And San? Wooyo getting hurt isn’t your fault. Do me a favour and don’t blame yourself, okay?” 

You pulled San in a hug, kissing his forehead. He nodded, basking in the comfort you offered long enough to pull himself together and then let go. You gave him a soft smile and walked out, closing the door behind you. 

You found out that the kids had already gone to sleep. Seonghwa, Yeosang and Jongho passed out in the two rooms you didn’t use but still had gotten furniture for. While Mingi and Yunho had somehow managed to fit their 6 feet something bodies on your tiny couches.  

That’s when it struck you that maybe the reason you had gotten such a big house and so much furniture was because unconsciously you wished for the nine of you to meet again. Even when you had almost gotten caught trying to get this house, you still never gave up. It even overlooked the sea and you had convinced yourself that you wanted this house because it was pretty much isolated. But perhaps you had wished to meet Ateez again. That thought made you smile. 

You saw that Hongjoong was still awake, though. He looked like he was waiting for you. Or maybe he was just waiting to make sure Wooyoung was fine.  

He was sitting on a chair in the kitchen, probably to not disturb the kids sleep. You realised with a pang that the chair he was sitting on was right beside the chair you usually sat when you had time to eat. 

You slid in your regular chair, adjusting it so that you faced him. “Wooyoung’s fine. He’ll be back on his feet by tomorrow.” You said before Hongjoong could ask. 

He practically melted with relief. “Thank god.” 

You noticed the wound he had gotten on his cheek while saving you had not healed. You reached out and caressed it. “Why didn’t you have Sangie heal this?” 

“He looked dead on his feet after healing Wooyoung. I didn’t want to exhaust him even more.” He said leaning into your touch. 

A familiar mixture of exasperation and love welled up in you. He was still your Hongjoong. Your beautiful, kind, selfless, Hongjoong. You couldn’t understand how you had made yourself believe that he could be anything else. 

You dropped your hand from his cheek, standing up and pulling him to his feet. “Come on, let’s get that thing disinfected. You don’t want to get an infection.” You said, leading him to your room and making him sit on the bed as you rummaged around for the first aid box you used for smaller injuries. 

You nonchalantly pushed his knee away, slotting yourself between his legs to get a better look at the wound and ignored the way Hongjoong’s breath caught in his throat. You also ignored how his eyes were roaming over your face, drinking you in and choose to only focus on the wound.  

You carefully disinfected it. The wound was not too deep and just putting a bandage would work so you apply a bandage over it, tracing your thumb over the bandage once. You quickly step away from Hongjoong, packing up the first aid box and putting it away. 

Hongjoong was still staring at you when you turned back. “We need to talk.” It came out a whisper. 

Hongjoong nodded and you sat beside him. Both of you waited for the other to start.  

“Well..” 

“So…” 

The two of you said at the same time. Both of you laughed and Hongjoong motioned for you to start first. 

Taking a deep breath, you started talking. You wanted to speak calmly but the story came out almost indistinguishable because of how shaky your voice was. Hongjoong understood every single word you said, however. 

You told him of how you had sneaked into Jinyoung’s house to kill him, and how you had heard about what Jinyoung had actually done to the two of you. 

Hongjoong listened carefully and filled in the gaps of your story. By the time you were done, both of you were crying. 

You made the first move and jumped into Hongjoong’s embrace, his arms coming around you to keep you from falling. He pulled you in impossible close as if he would never let you go again. You wouldn’t either. 

When the two of you had calmed down a little, he pulled away from you, looking you in the eyes and saying, “I’m sorry for not telling you earlier.” 

You shook your head. “Don’t be. I wouldn’t have heard anyways.” 

“Still. I’m sorry. I should have at least tried.”  

“Well then, I’m sorry for not listening to you. For not giving you a chance.” You said. 

“Stop apologising for that. You had every right to. You thought that I had betrayed you. I would’ve done the same.” He replied. 

“See? I can’t accept your apology and you can’t accept mine. This will never end. So why don’t we just replace all of our “sorry”s and “thank you”s with “I love you”s? I would much rather hear that from you.” You said, gently. 

Hongjoong agreed. “I love you, Y/n”. 

“I love you too, Hongjoong.” You reached up and pulled him in a deep kiss that conveyed all of the unsaid words between you and Hongjoong. 

The two of you drifted off in each other’s arms, finally feeling like you had found the part that you were missing. 

That morning you woke up feeling unfamiliarly warm. You remembered the events of last night and smiled to yourself, burying your head in the crook of Hongjoong's neck. 

“Finally up, huh?” Hongjoong said and you could hear the smile in his voice. 

Without opening your eyes, you replied, “Were you watching me sleep? Wow, I can’t believe I’m dating a creep.” 

Hongjoong sputtered. “Wait, what? We’re dating?” 

You opened your eyes and looked at him, raising your eyebrow up. “Wasn't that obvious? Or do you think I kissed you and let you sleep with me just for fun?” 

“Well when you put it like that…” Hongjoong said with a shit-eating grin. 

You groaned, burying your head in his neck again. “It’s way too early for this.” You grumbled. 

You could feel Hongjoong laugh, his body shaking under yours and you let yourself smile too. 

You basked in his warmth and couldn’t believe you had survived with him for so long. 

“What are we going to do now, love?” Hongjoong asked softly, suddenly serious. 

You pulled away, meeting his gaze. “I never want to let go of you ever again, Joong.”  

“Me neither. Will you join us?” Hongjoong asked, hopefully. 

“Is there still a place for me on the Aurora?” You asked. 

“Of course there is, Y/n. In fact I don’t think there was ever a time that there wasn’t a place for you. We all missed you too much. Of course, I missed you the most.” Hongjoong added the last part playfully and you giggled. 

“Then of course I’ll come with you, love. But I have some things that I need to do before we leave. A few loose ends to tie up.” You said. 

“I know that, darling. And we’ll help you every step of the way even if you don’t ask for it.” He promised. 

You leant in and met his lips in a grateful kiss. “Maybe when we’re done, we could go in search of Wonderland.” You grinned against his lips. 

“What do you want to do once we become pirates?” You asked Hongjoong curiously. 

The two of you were laying on the roof in each other’s embrace, stargazing. 

“And what prompted this sudden question?” Hongjoong laughed. 

“Oh nothing.” You waved your hand. “Just curious.” 

“Do you know the story of Wonderland?” Hongjoong asked. 

“The story of what?” You asked, giggling. 

“This is very famous story among pirates. Can’t believe you don’t know it.” Hongjoong scoffed, playfully and started his story.  

“Long ago, there was a pirate who was well known for being kind to people who treated him well. Kind of ironic, don’t you think with the image pirates have? Anyways, while he was on a voyage, he spotted an island in the middle of basically nowhere. The island wasn’t marked on his maps either and he was pretty sure he had never seen it before. That pirate was naturally curious, so he turned his ship for the island. He apparently found an unbelievable number of treasures on it. When he came back to take his wife with him there, he couldn’t stop talking about how beautiful that place was and how everyone who lived there was happy. He called the place ‘Wonderland’. It’s every pirate’s dream to at least see that place once in their life.” Hongjoong finished his tale, dramatically. 

You laughed. “Joong, I hate to break this to you but that place is probably imaginary.” 

“Wow, Y/n I can’t believe you’re crushing my dreams before I even had the chance to chase them.” Hongjoong pouted. 

You had an urge to kiss his pout away and so you did just that. Hongjoong deepened the kiss, causing you to moan in his mouth. 

“Ew! Can you two not do that when any of us can walk in and see you?” Seonghwa yelled, clearly disgusted. 

He had come to call the two of you for dinner and he had had to witness the traumatizing sight of the two of you kissing. 

Seonghwa’s yell, made the two of you break apart, laughing shamelessly as you followed him down. 

Hongjoong made a sound of surprise, breaking the kiss. “You still remember that?”  

“Of course I do. Hwa’s expression still cracks me up.” You said, giggling slightly. “We should really go downstairs, though, before one of the kids walks in on us.” 

“But it’s comfortable here.” Hongjoong whined. “And I really don’t want to get up.” 

You shook your head, exasperatedly but still smiling. “Then you can stay here. I’ll go down alon–” 

Hongjoong was up in flash, not letting you finish your sentence. 

“Come on, get up. We have to get downstairs don’t we?” He said cheekily, offering you his hand.  

You let him pull you up, still laughing and then the two of you went down, hand in hand. 

The kids, it turned out, were still asleep. You sent Hongjoong to wake them up while you decided to find something for breakfast. Your kitchen was very bare, since you never had guests over but you managed to scrape together enough sandwiches for the whole crew. Or so you hoped. 

Yunho and Mingi were the first ones to appear, the others following behind them. Wooyoung, who was looking much better, rushed to help you but you waved him away. 

“Are you feeling better now, Wooyo?” You asked, gently. 

“I–yes. Thank you, Y/n for saving me. San told me what happened.” Wooyoung replied, gratefully. 

You shook your head. “You don’t need to thank me. It’s enough that you’re feeling well.”  

Seonghwa and Hongjoong helped you serve breakfast and the nine of you dug in. When all of you had eaten, Mingi and Yunho volunteered to wash the dishes. 

You sat back, marvelling the domesticity of it all. Hongjoong took your hand in his, caressing it softly as if he could read your thoughts. If the rest of Ateez saw the two of you holding hands, they did not comment on it. 

Once the nine of you were done, you gathered around the table, the atmosphere turning serious. You stared at each other, the silence becoming thick. 

“I’m assuming you found out the entire truth, Y/n?” Yunho asked. His tone wasn’t accusatory but you flinched anyway. 

“Yes. And I want to apologize to all of you. I shouldn’t have jumped to conclusions.” You said, quietly. 

“You don’t need to apologize, Y/n. You couldn’t have known. Anyone would have reacted the same way you did. Really, you have nothing to be sorry for.” San said, gently but firmly, the others nodding along with him. You sent him a grateful smile. 

Hongjoong noticed and pouted. “So when I say that, you don’t agree but when San says it you agree? Wow, Y/n, I’m hurt.”  

You laughed, blowing him a kiss. 

“Ugh, not even a day back together and they’re already disgusting.” Seonghwa gagged. 

“I know right.” Mingi agreed. “Y/n are you sure you want to date that guy again?” 

“Mingi are you sure that’s the cause you want to fight for?” Hongjoong jokingly challenged. 

“Oooh looks like Mingi won’t have a crew anymore.” Wooyoung whistled. 

“Please. Hongjoong can’t leave me, I’m his only sniper.” Mingi smirked, confidently. 

You giggled. “You’re not his only sniper anymore, Mings.” 

“Does that mean you’re joining the crew again?!” Yunho asked, overjoyed. 

“I thought that was obvious?” You said. 

All of Ateez broke out into dazzling grins. 

“Group hug!” San yelled, pulling you and Hongjoong. 

Hongjoong grumbled but it was ruined by the huge smile he wore. 

When the nine of you broke apart, Yeosang yelled, “Which one of you took my wallet?” 

Eight pairs of eyes turned to you. 

“What?” You grinned, sheepishly handing Yeosang his wallet back. “It was too tempting to not at least attempt.” 

“Remind me to never hug you again, Y/n.” Seonghwa joked and you laughed shamelessly. 

“So what now? Are we leaving?” Jongho asked. 

“I still have some stuff to do before I can come with you guys.” You answered, regretfully. 

“And we're going to help you with it.” Hongjoong said immediately. 

“You don’t have to–“ 

Your protest was cut off by Seonghwa. “He’s right, we are. Correct me if I’m wrong but the ‘stuff’ you have to do is killing Jinyoung, is it not? I think we deserve to get our revenge by helping you too.” 

You nodded, clearing your throat. “Thank you, guys.” 

“How are we going to do it though? If we just go and kill him, there’s a high chance we’ll get caught and we definitely don’t want that.” Jongho said. 

You smirked. “Oh we’re not just going to kill him. We’re also going to uncover his crimes to the people. Without getting caught of course.” 

“And I’m guessing you’ve got it all figured out?” Hongjoong said, fondly. 

You grinned at him. “You know me too well, Joong.” 

You and Mingi were perched on the roof of the building right opposite to the pub Jinyoung was in. You were keeping a careful eye on it. In case something went wrong, the two of you had to be quick. 

You watched as Hongjoong walked in, acting as if he hadn’t seen Jinyoung. He approached the bar, sliding on the bar stool next to Jinyoung. When Jinyoung noticed him, Hongjoong acted surprised as if he wasn’t expecting him to be there. 

“What is the great Captain of police doing in a bar that is famous for serving to criminals?” Hongjoong sneered. 

Jinyoung covered up his shock quickly. “I could very well be undercover on the chase of someone you know. What is a person who is associated with a well know criminal doing, trying to start a conversation with the Captain of police, huh? Do you not know I could arrest you right now?” 

Hongjoong looked mildly bored at that, as if Jinyoung's threat didn’t mean anything to him. “And on what terms would you arrest a normal businessman who is simply trying to get a drink after a long day?”  

“A normal businessman? You? You are a dirty pirate and you dare–“ Jinyoung was positively bursting with outrage. 

“Do you have any proof of that? You would just arrest an innocent man based on your assumptions? Our police force is really amazing.” Hongjoong snarked. 

“You dare to say that after you have attacked every single ship I sent out in the sea?” Jinyoung challenged. 

“Oh, I see what this is. Someone attacked your ships and you’re just looking for someone to pin the blame on. You are absolutely pitiful.” Hongjoong said, in faux sympathy. 

To any other person who was eavesdropping, it would seem like Hongjoong was really just an innocent citizen who the Captain of police was targeting for no apparent reason. You supressed your grin. Hongjoong was playing Jinyoung perfectly. 

Mingi let out a low whistle. “Wow. Our captain could become an actor if he tried.”  

You laughed silently. “Well he certainly has the face and the talent for it.” 

Meanwhile, Hongjoong leaned over Jinyoung, under the guise of picking up his drink and whispered in his ear, “You’re absolutely right. I did attack all of your ships. But you can’t prove it, can you? If you could, you would have arrested me already. I bet it drives you crazy to always lose to me.”  

Hongjoong sat back on his stool, a sinister smile on his face. Jinyoung was practically turning red with anger. 

“Don’t you think he's provoking him a bit too much? We can’t have Jinyoung leave too soon, we need to buy as much time as we can for Wooyoung and San.” You said, worried. 

“Don’t worry too much, Y/n, it will probably be fine.” Mingi said, but you could detect the uneasiness in his voice. 

Things went wrong as soon as he said that. Jinyoung grabbed hold of a bottle and swung it at Hongjoong but he was too slow. Hongjoong grabbed hold of the bottle, easily ripping it out of his hands. 

“Sit down, old man. Or things will not end well.” Hongjoong said in an easy-going manner but with an undertone of a warning. 

That seemed to anger Jinyoung more and he smashed his glass on Hongjoong’s hand. You and Mingi stared at each other wide eyed. 

Hongjoong winced when the glass cut through his skin.  

“This is bad.” Mingi whispered. “Should we intervene?” 

You were about to reply when you saw Hongjoong glance in your direction and shake his head slightly. 

“No.” You decided. “Not yet. He has it under control for now. Let’s wait a bit.” 

Hongjoong threw a winning smile to the distressed bartender who was signalling to the security before slipping into the shadows. Jinyoung was dragged out, his protests being ignored. 

You sighed as you and Mingi climbed down to meet Hongjoong in the alley. Jinyoung had left far sooner than you had taught he would.  

Hongjoong was waiting for the two of you and you rushed to him, checking his hand. “I told you not to start a fight, Joong.” 

He smiled sheepishly. “Yeah, well, I didn’t think he would get that angry.” 

“We need more time. I doubt San and Wooyoung would be out yet.” Mingi said. 

“Time for me to get to work then.” You grinned. 

“Be careful. He’s already pissed off. Don’t let him kill you.” Hongjoong warned. 

You kissed his cheek. “You worry too much. I have it under control. Now go find Yeosang to heal your hand.” With that, you jumped on the roof, following Jinyoung. 

Hongjoong turned to Mingi. “Follow  Y/n just in case she needs back-up.” 

“Already on it. You listen to her and go find Yeosang.” Mingi replied, going after you. 

San felt like he was going to lose his mind. He was sure he and Wooyoung had searched everywhere for the ‘proof’ you said they would find in Jinyoung’s house. They had found nothing and they were short on time. 

“I doubt he’ll keep anything here where any one can find it. He must have hidden it well.” San said to Wooyoung who was shuffling through the drawers in Jinyoung’s study. 

Wooyoung straightened up and sighed. “You’re right. The problem is we don’t have time. We need to get away from here before he comes back and Hongjoong and Y/n can only keep Jinyoung distracted for so long.” 

San ran his gaze over the room. “If you had to keep such important documents safe, where would you keep them?” 

“I’d burn them.” 

“Thanks, that helped a lot.”  

Wooyoung shot a grin at him, stepping away to look at the bookshelf. San followed, helping him search. 

They could find nothing except rows and rows of books. San turned towards Wooyoung, breath catching in his throat when he saw how close they were. Wooyoung looked at him, his gaze falling to San’s lips. He gulped and took a step back, stumbling. San panicked, trying to catch him before he fell and his hand slammed against a book.  

The book fell down, revealing a safe behind it. However San was too busy making sure Wooyoung was alright to notice. “Are you alrig–” 

“What’s that?” 

“What?” 

Quickly, Wooyoung stepped towards the bookshelf, pulling the books hiding the safe down. He and San shared a look. 

“So that’s why we couldn’t find anything.” San muttered. “It’s locked.” 

“Of course it’s locked, San, who keeps a safe unlocked?” Wooyoung sassed. 

He laughed when he saw San pout, kissing it away. 

“Come on, we have a safe to unlock. What do you suppose the pin could be?” 

“Maybe his birthday?” San suggested. 

“Do you even know his birthday?” 

“…..no?” 

“Great! That only leaves us with like a million options.” Wooyoung replied, sarcastically. 

“Maybe we could just take the safe with us?” 

“No. Jinyoung would find that out immediately and we’d lose the factor of surprise. We need to catch him off guard.” 

“Then we’ll have to try all the million options, I guess.” 

Both of them looked back at the safe, sighing. 

You watched as Jinyoung ambled down the street, still fuming from his run-in with Hongjoong. You were aware that Mingi was following you only a few feet behind. You were sure you wouldn’t need him but any help was always welcome.  

Jinyoung was sticking to the main streets and that was making you worried. You couldn’t stall him in the middle of main road. You hoped he would use one of the many alleys that Utopia had. That would make your work easier. 

As you got closer to Jinyoung's house, your anxiety increased. Fortunately for you, though, it looked like you were in luck because just a few roads away from his home, he ducked into an alley. 

You leaped from the roof, landing in front of him, making him stop. The shadows hid your identity so Jinyoung looked at you in confusion. 

“Get out of my way, I am the captain of the police.” He ordered. 

You stepped in the light and Jinyoung’s face flashed with recognition. “I know exactly who you are, Jinyoung.” You smirked. 

“Halazia. The legendary outlaw who had been stealing the funds of the nation. Or should I call you Y/n?” Jinyoung snarled. 

You laughed. “Funds of the nation? Funds of the nation, huh. I wonder then why the nation hasn’t caught me yet? I mean the Captain of the police even knows my name. Surely it would be easy to track down a petty thief, wouldn’t it?” 

“I was being lenient on you because your parents were the best of friends with me once and this is how you pay me back?” Jinyoung sputtered. 

You knew what he was trying to do. He was trying to irk you with the mention of you parents. You did not give him the satisfaction, though. 

“Oh no, I believe that it’s because those ‘funds’ are actually money you embezzled. You don’t need to worry, they’re in the hands of people who actually need them. Hmm…now that I think about it, they did become funds of the nation after all, huh.” You added thoughtfully. 

Jinyoung threw a punch at you, which you sidestepped quite easily. The rebound made him stumble forward and fall flat on his face. 

You stifled a laugh. “I wonder how they let such a crass man become the Captain of the police? Starting fights in dark alleys and all.”  

Jinyoung got up, ready to hit you again but you were faster. You kicked in the legs causing him to fall on his knees in front of you.  

You grabbed his hair pulling his face up and whispered darkly, “This is where you should be. On your knees. Begging for your life.” 

The fear in Jinyoung’s eyes thrilled you. You had dreamed of this moment ever since that day when you were dragged off the Aurora. However, as much as you would have loved to kill him right there, you had a plan to execute.  

You smirked as you hit Jinyoung's head against the wall hard enough to knock out for a little time but not hard enough to cause any real damage. The worse he would suffer from would be concussion, if you were lucky.  

You looked around for a place to hide his body. You couldn’t leave him in the middle of the road for anyone to find but he was heavy. The best you could do is hide him behind the trash cans with Mingi’s help. 

“Putting the trash where it belongs, I see?” Mingi chortled. 

You couldn’t stop the loud cackle that left you. “Let’s go check on Woosan. Hopefully they’d have found what we need by now.” 

Wooyoung was freaking out. They had not managed to open the safe yet and their time was running out. 

“Seriously why does he need to keep it in a safe? He had already hidden it!” San bemoaned. 

“Just break it.” A voice sounded from behind them, making them jump. 

Wooyoung whirled around. “Hongjoong what are you doing here?” 

“Trying to help you guys? You were taking way too long.” 

“How did you even get in?” San asked. 

Hongjoong rolled his eyes. “You kept the door unlocked. Do we really have time to argue about that?” 

He strode forward pulling a drill out. Wooyoung and San stepped away letting Hongjoong work.  

“Where did he get a drill from?” Wooyoung whispered to San. 

“Well, he’s Hongjoong. Isn’t that enough of an explanation?” San shrugged. 

Hongjoong had soon drilled through the safe and it creaked open slowly. Wooyoung leaned forward to check inside and sure enough the proof of Jinyoung’s embezzlement. 

“This should be enough to get him arrested, right?” San asked. 

“More than enough.” Hongjoong assured. “We just need to make sure they go to the right person.” 

Wooyoung grinned in triumph. “Let’s get out of here then.”  

The triumph was short lived, though, because they heard the front door open and someone stepped in. The three of them exchanged startled glances when the footsteps drew closer to the study. 

The door opened and the Vice Captain of the Police stepped in. 

When you and Mingi reached back home, the night had almost gone by. Your cover of darkness would soon disappear but you still had one last thing to do. Considering, of course, that Wooyoung and San had succeeded. If not, then your plan would be a bust and Jinyoung would start come after you with the full force of the police behind him. 

You opened the door and walked in, to be met by silence. You spotted the proof you had fought so hard to find on the table and smiled in triumph. Your crew had succeeded, not that you had any doubts that they wouldn’t. 

You picked it up, turning to Mingi. “I just need to deliver these now. I’ll be back before sunrise.” 

“Y/n…where is the rest of the crew? If the proof made it here, they should have been here too.” Mingi said, with an undertone of concern. 

You looked around worried. “I’ll check upstairs. You search for them here.” 

You rushed upstairs, praying that they’d be there. However, the only thing that greeted you was darkness and silence.  

You ran back to Mingi. “Any luck?” 

“No. The house is empty.” 

Fear clawed its way up to your throat. The crew wouldn’t leave without a good reason unless… 

Unless…. 

Unless they’d been caught. Unless they’d bargained themselves, again, for your sake. 

You did this. If only it wasn’t for your revenge and scheming and tricks. If only you hadn’t pulled them back, made them help you. If only you were a normal girl with a normal past and a normal life. 

You chewed on your lips as your thoughts spiralled.  

Mingi touched your arm, brining you back to reality. “Don’t make it your fault when we don’t even know if something’s actually wrong. And even if something’s actually wrong then we need you more than ever right now. We need to take Jinyoung down as soon as possible.” 

You nodded. You weren’t a normal girl with a normal past and a normal life. Your life was full of revenge and scheming and tricks and if you couldn’t change it then you had to use it to your advantage.  

The crew had given you a fighting chance by making sure you found the proof and you couldn’t waste it. 

“Mingi, I need to go. This needs to be done before the sun rises.” 

He squeezed your hand, reassuringly. “Do what you need to. I’ll try to find the crew in the meantime.” 

“I’ll meet you back here in an hour.” You squeezed his hand back before leaving.

As you climbed the roofs, your mind was racing. You had to figure out where your crew went and if they were alright.  

You knew Hongjoong would make sure that no harm would come to them. But you weren’t sure if he would make sure he remains alright too. You knew that he would sacrifice himself for them in a heartbeat and that scared you. What if he had– 

No, you decided, that was a dangerous train of thought and one you did not have the luxury to contemplate. Hongjoong would be alright, you just needed to find them. 

You had to focus on making sure you weren’t caught since you were heading to the elite area of the city. It was the most well-guarded area and even one misstep would lead to you being captured. 

You hid and watched as the guards made their rounds. You would about five minutes to pick the lock of the window before the guards came back and you would be exposed. 

You waited till the guards disappeared before quickly making your way down to the balcony. You were in plain sight as you had no cover here and if anyone peaked out of their window or if the guards came back, you would have no time to escape. 

Lock picking was never your speciality, however, as you hadn’t quite managed to master it. And the lock on this window was proving to be more challenging than usual. Your time was running out, though and you could hear the footsteps of the guards coming closer. Just as the guards turned the corner, the lock gave way in your hands and you slipped in, silently pulling the window close behind you. 

Prosecutor Bang Chan was not known to be a very tidy man so you weren’t surprised to find the mess on his table. But he was a fair man and was persistent in chasing his cases to the end. Most importantly, he’d been out for Jinyoung’s blood for as long as you could remember. For the Captain of the Police, Jinyoung had sure made some powerful enemies. 

You knew that if Chan got his hands on this proof, Jinyoung was done for. So, you decided to help Chan out a little. You giggled to yourself. Jinyoung should’ve seen this coming. 

You carefully placed the proof on the table, making sure that Chan would see it as soon as he walked into his office. 

Your work here was done. Now all you had to do was get out of here safely. 

You waited till the guards disappeared again and then got out carefully, shutting the window behind you and putting the lock in place. The only trace you had left behind of your midnight visit was the valuable information lying on Chan’s table. 

You climbed up to the roof and started making your way back to your house. Your thoughts turned to your crew again and you hoped that Mingi had found them. That they were alright. 

When you reached back you were again met with silence but this time the coldness was missing from the air. Walking in, you were met with the sight of Mingi and Yunho passed out on the couch again(they had claimed it for themselves) and you sighed in relief. At least they were ok. You had no idea what had happened but at least the kids were fine. 

You silently opened the door of your room, expecting Hongjoong to be asleep too but to your surprise, he was awake, waiting for you. You shut the door behind you just as quietly as you had opened it, to not wake the others up. 

“Are you ok? Are you hurt? What happened? Is everyone else alright—” Your worry spilled out of you, making your words almost incomprehensible.  

Hongjoong cut you off with a kiss, that you melted into immediately, closing your eyes. It felt good to be held by him, his soft lips on yours, his hands caressing your face. It was so tempting to just stay like this, to let him kiss you till your lips bruised and your mind went blank but you had problems you needed to solve. You pulled away, making him chase your lips.  

“What happened?” You asked, more calmly this time. 

“You didn’t tell me that Minho became the Vice-Captain of the police.” 

“He goes by Lee Know now—what does that have to do with anything?” 

“Well, he wanted to apologise for setting up an ambush for us so he took us off the wanted list. We were catching up with him and we lost track of time. I’m sorry for making you worried. I didn’t think we’d be this late.” He said softly. 

“So you’re free?! You can go back to sailing now without having to worry about being caught?” 

Hongjoong nodded, making you smile. 

“I know this is too much to ask from you,” he began, voice uncertain, “and I know you want a normal life after this is all over but will you join us? Will you come with me?”  

“Of course I’ll come with you, Joong.”  

“Really? But I thought a normal life was what you wanted?” Hope colored his voice even as he asked you that. 

“Love. Look at you. Look at me. Do you really think either of us could have a normal life now?” A smile crept on your face. “Want to know a secret? I like it better this way.” 

“Do you?” 

“Mmhm, I do. Besides, pirates are hot.” 

That drew a chuckle out of him. “Are they now?” 

“Yep. They are. Especially the one standing in front of me.” You giggled. 

And then Hongjoong was kissing you. Or was it you who made the first move? You couldn’t really remember. The kiss was needy and passionate and searing, making everything else fade. Your hands found their place in his hair, tugging on it, making Hongjoong growl in the kiss. The sound sent heat rushing straight to your core.  

Hongjoong’s hands toyed with the hem of your shirt. “Can I?” He asked with an edge of desperation. 

“Please.” You breathed back, just as desperate. 

He made a quick work of your shirt, pulling it off you and throwing it somewhere. He wasted no moment to attach his lips to your neck, leaving a trail of kisses and love bites in his wake. You pushed him backwards, making him fall on the bed, you on top of him.  

“My turn.” You whispered, unbuttoning his shirt and revealing his perfectly sculpted body. You dived right in, coloring his skin with your marks as if he was your canvas. You paused to admire him, his neck and chest covered with your marks, his lips bruised and you couldn’t believe that he was yours. 

Hongjoong used that moment to flip your positions so that you were lying underneath him. His hands hovered over your pants, silently asking for permission. 

“Joong, love, please. I need you. I need to feel you.” You pleaded. 

In no time at all, your pants were off and he started sucking on your clit, making your hands fly to his hair and your back arch. Hongjoong ate you out like he had been starving for years and you were his only meal. It was messy and fervent and had you crying out in pleasure. His nose nudged your clit and your orgasm tore out of you harshly making you feel like you were floating. 

Hongjoong and smirked when he caught you looking at him.

“You think you can handle coming again, darling?” He asked smugly. 

“You look like you need it more than I do, Joong.” You said, pointing at his erection, which was leaking with pre cum. 

Hongjoong’s eyes darkened. “Damn right I do. Tell me if it hurts.” 

He entered you slowly, giving you time to adjust to his length. You whimpered softly at the stretch but soon the pain was replaced by the pleasure.  

“You can move now.” You murmured. 

As soon as Hongjoong heard that, he started driving into you at a speed that had you seeing stars. You brought his lips to yours, the taste of you on his lips only causing you to unravel faster. Both your and Hongjoong’s moans got lost in the kiss. His pace did not slow down even as you clenched around him, both of you chasing your highs.  

“Cum with me, love.” Hongjoong grunted against your lips. 

That was all it took for you to be thrown off the cliff, your orgasm almost blinding you. Hongjoong followed and you felt his cum fill you up. After the two of you rode out your highs, you collapsed against Hongjoong’s chest. He pulled out of you, cursing softly as some of his cum spilled out. 

He pressed a kiss against your hair and then another on your shoulder. “Let’s get cleaned up, love.” 

You shot him a lovesick smile. “Or maybe we could just go sleep.” 

Hongjoong laughed as he brushed your hair out of your face and he picked you up, carrying you to the shower. 

After showering together, and a quick second round, you were lying in the bed, cuddled up against Hongjoong. Your head was on his chest and he was stroking your hair.  

“You know,” Hongjoong began. “I can’t wait to spend our forever together.” 

“Who says I’m spending forever with you?” You teased. 

Hongjoong scoffed. “That’s not what you were saying earlier.” 

“Maybe I’m having a moment of post-nut clarity.” 

Hongjoong shook his head, not able to hide the fond smile that was growing on his face. “Sure love, whatever you say.” 

You buried your face in the crook of his neck, hiding the little smile of your own in his neck. “I love you, Joong.” You whispered against his skin. 

Hongjoong’s smile grew as he whispered a confession of his own in your hair.  

The next few days passed without any news and you could see that your crew was getting antsy. And to be honest, so were you but you did a better job of hiding it. 

“Maybe the evidence wasn’t enough.” You said Hongjoong, not letting anyone else hear your conversation. “Or maybe something went wrong and Bang Chan never received it.” 

Hongjoong shook his head. “Stop worrying, love, I’m sure nothing went wrong. Maybe the case is being investigated and they just haven’t announced it.” He said, gently. 

You had always admired Hongjoong's optimism. But it did nothing to quell the myriad of doubts swirling in your mind. “I should go and check, then. Find out if anything is actually getting investigated. Or maybe I should just go and kill Jinyoung now.” 

“You could.” Hongjoong agreed. “But then he would become a martyr who was killed by a cruel outlaw and the people would never know that the actual criminal was him.” 

You sighed. You had to admit that he had a point. “I hate the fact that you’re right about this.” You whined, making Hongjoong laugh.  

“Aren’t I always?” He retorted. 

The deadpan stare you gave him cracked him up again, dissolving into a fit of laughter. No matter how hard you tried, you couldn’t hide the smile that grew on your face. The effect that Kim Hongjoong had on you was too strong. 

Hongjoong caught sight of your smile but before he could even say anything, you shut him up with your lips. You felt him grinning in the kiss and pulled him deeper in, not giving him a chance to break the kiss. 

Your worries were soon found to be uncalled for, however because the very next day the announcement of Jinyoung’s arrest was broadcasted over all Utopia. They had found him guilty on all charges and he was set to be sent to prison next week. 

“You know,” Yeosang commented, “Utopia’s judicial system can sure be quick when they want to be.” 

You barely suppressed your laugh but the others weren’t so subtle. “Good for us. We’ll be rid of this place sooner.” Jongho cackled. 

You had to admit he had a point. You couldn’t wait to feel the sea breeze in your hair, to feel the waves lapping beneath your ship, to be back to the place you belonged to, to be back with the people you belonged with. It was a wonderful thought. A wonderful dream you hoped would come true sooner rather than later.  

Hongjoong saw that your expression had turned pensive and dropped a kiss on the side of your head. “A penny for your thoughts, love?” 

You sent him a wide, blinding smile that had his heart do flips in his chest. “Just… thinking about much I love you. All of you. And how lucky I am that you love me back.”  

“Don’t say that. If anything we are the lucky ones. I’m the lucky one.” Hongjoong, the genuineness in his voice, words and eyes making you melt. Then he continued, cheekily, “But you love me the most right?” 

You snorted. “It’s not a competition, Joong!” 

“What’s not a competition?” Seonghwa asked, curiously, making both you and Hongjoong yell, “Nothing!” 

“Wow, ok.” Seonghwa grumbled. “Guess we can’t even ask anything now, without the captains getting mad at us.” 

“Captains….? Plural?” You asked, confused.  

“Well, yeah, Y/n, when your referring to more than one person, you use plurals.” Seonghwa said, matter of factly, making Hongjoong snicker. The glare you sent him did nothing to faze him as his laugh grew even wilder after seeing your expression. 

“If I’m the co-captain, does that mean I have the authority to push him off the ship?” You whispered conspiratorially to Seonghwa. 

“As the first mate, I whole heartedly support your decision.” Seonghwa agreed, sporting a grin. 

That snapped Hongjoong out of his laughing fit. “Hey!” He protested. “I can’t believe that two of the people I trust most are leading a mutiny against me!” 

This time it was you who shook with laughter. “Is it a mutiny if everyone already acknowledges me as the captain?” 

You ignored Hongjoong’s yell of, “Of course it’s a mutiny!” turning to Seonghwa and whispering, “Maybe we should do it as soon as we set sail.”  

“Or we could just leave him here.” Seonghwa giggled. 

Hongjoong stared at the two of you in mock betrayal make you smile widely and press a swift kiss to his pout. Hongjoong smirked in the kiss, pulling you closer. 

“Ew. Ew. Ew. Can you not do that when I’m right here?” Seonghwa grumbled. “Why do I always have to witness this?” 

You broke the kiss, laughing wildly when Hongjoong cursed at Seonghwa and Seonghwa walked away rolling his eyes. You were still laughing when Hongjoong swept you in for another, much deeper kiss. 

It was the day. Jinyoung was going to be carted off to prison in front of the whole public. It was also the day you were going to leave Utopia behind with your crew for good. But first, you had some things to take care of. 

You double checked your outfit, making sure your face would be covered. You did not want anyone recognising you as the whole plan depended on making sure no one could trace it back to you. Hongjoong walked over to you just as you were making sure you had everything you needed. “Are you sure you’ll be fine on your own, love?” He asked. Hongjoong trusted your skills but he couldn’t lose you again, not when he’d just found you.  

“Of course I’ll be fine, Joong.” You sent him a reassuring smile, softly caressing his cheek with your hand. “I’m the ‘legendary outlaw’ Halazia remember? I know the streets of Utopia better than anyone else. Besides we need Aurora to be ready to set sail immediately in case something goes wrong.” 

Hongjoong still looked worried but he nodded slightly.  

“Guys? We’re getting late.” Wooyoung called.  

You pecked Hongjoong’s lips, before dropping your hand. “Be careful.” 

“You too.” 

Sending a smile his way, you walked out. 

You pulled your hood over your hair, climbing to the roof. The clock tower showed that you had about ten minutes to get to the town square where Jinyoung’s crimes would be read out before he would be taken away from the public’s eye forever. This was the best and last chance you had.  

You were sure that the square would be packed. Practically every citizen of Utopia who could manage to come would be there. The emotions would be running high, everyone would want to kill the former captain of police. The perfect place and time to assassinate him.  

You grinned to yourself, slinging your rifle over your back. You ran, jumping from roof to roof, making sure no one saw you. Not that there was anyone to see you. The streets were empty. Just as you expected, everyone was in the town square. As long as you remain hidden when you shot Jinyoung, no one would be able to find out exactly who killed him.  

You reached the town hall and checked the time. Three minutes to go. You scanned the surroundings to find a place where you could get a proper aim and could also remain hidden.  

There. It was the perfect place. The roof was high enough that if you were quick you could hide before anyone discovered you and it gave you a good vantage point.  

The crowd below grew restless as the seconds ticked by. One minute left. You held in the maniacal bout of laughter that threatened to spill out of you as you picked you rifle and attached the suppressor. 

“Five,” you whispered, “Four. Three. Two. On—" 

Jinyoung was forced to step out. You couldn’t control your laugh this time as your bullet travelled quickly and silently. It burrowed into his heart as a fountain of red shot out.  

Time seemed to freeze for a moment as the people tried to make sense of what just happened. And then all chaos broke lose. 

You pressed your lips together to stop yourself from making a sound as you slipped into the shadows. You had to be as discreet as possible to not get caught, especially since the crowd would definitely notice the rifle strung over your back. By now you were sure that the shock would be fading off and the police would be searching for the culprit. Minho had promised you to keep them off your back but you couldn’t take any chances.  

Quickly, you made your way away from the town square. There was just one thing you needed to do before you could leave with your boys. The streets were still quiet empty, a small blessing that you were grateful for.  

You slipped inside a seemingly dilapidated house. This was the place Minho and you had decided to meet after. He said he had something to give you. And so did you.  

You were staring blankly at the wall, when the door creaked open, rousing you out of the haze. Minho walked in, grinning and you relaxed. 

“Hello, Y/n.” Minho said, smiling widely, “Missed me?” 

You rolled your eyes at him, laughing. “As a matter of fact, I did not.” 

Minho clutched his heart, dramatically acting like he was in pain. You couldn’t believe that they were going to make him--of all people--the captain of the police force and you told him exactly that. “Ouch, Y/n! After everything I’ve done for you.” He said, in a mock display of betrayal. 

You couldn’t hold back your giggles and both of you dissolved into a pool of laughter. “I can’t believe we’re laughing after we killed a man.” You said, breathlessly. 

That seemed to sober Minho up. “Yeah, right. You and I both have places to be soon so I’ll make this quick.” 

“Make what quick?” 

“Let me speak, Y/n,” Minho sighed exasperated. You nodded, pressing your lips together. 

Minho continued, “Have you heard about a certain outlaw named Halazia?” He smirked. “Well guess what? Apparently she wasn’t really guilty of anything at all. Yeah, so she’s been cleared of all charges. I wonder who she was though. Guess we’ll never know.” He said, with the air of a man who was simply gossiping with his friend. 

You stared at him, speechless. Halazia—no, you had been cleared of all charges? It felt surreal, like a very vivid dream.  

“So—so, this, uh, Halazia person,” You said, trying to play along with Minho, but struggling to keep your voice even, “she can…she can just, you know, wander in the streets of Utopia, um, without covering her face?” 

“Yes!” Minho answered, cheerfully. “it also means that now she has to come visit her friends because she has lost that excuse. She wouldn’t not come visit them would she? Especially since she’s leaving him all alone” 

Knowing Minho, that was a thinly veiled threat. 

You threw yourself at him, hugging him tightly. “Of course I’ll visit you, Minho. I’ll miss you too much not to.” 

Minho hugged you back. “I can’t believe I’m saying this but I’ll miss you too, Y/n. So much.” 

You squeezed him once and then stepped away, smiling. “Now, I have something to give to you too, although it’s nowhere as good as your gift.” 

You handed him an envelope. Minho peered inside, curiously and then looked up at you shocked. “Is this….?” 

“Yes. They’re still alive.” You affirmed. “I don’t know where they are but we’re trying to find them. This is all the information I have. I just thought that you should know.”  

“Thank you, Y/n I—thank you.” Minho beamed, eyes teary. 

“Of course, Minho. We’ll find them. But now, both of us must go. Otherwise we’ll both be late.” You said. 

Minho blinked the tears out of his eyes. “You’re right. Goodbye Y/n, safe travels. And I wasn’t kidding when I said you had to come visit.” 

You laughed. “I wasn’t kidding when I said I would, either. Goodbye Minho. You’ll find them.”  

You walked out of the house, finally feeling at peace. 

Minho clutched at the envelope you had given him, carefully to not crumple it. “I will. I will find you, my love. I won’t stop till I know you’re safe.” He promised.

Hongjoong was starting to get anxious. It was almost time to weigh anchor but you weren’t here yet. He hoped that you were alright, as he chewed on his lip nervously.  

“She’ll be alright, you don’t need to worry so much, Captain. Y/n knows how to take care of herself.” Seonghwa said.  

Hongjoong nodded but didn’t reply. Yes, he knew that you could take care of yourself quite well but there were hundreds of things that could go wrong. He didn’t want to find you bleeding out on a roof, surrounded by Utopian police ever again. That was the scariest day of his life, watching you die because you stopped to help him and being powerless to stop it. 

Just as he was about to suggest going out and searching for you, he heard Wooyoung yell, “There she is!” 

Hongjoong breathe out a sigh of relief when he saw you. There you were, running towards the ship that you had built with him and grinning like you had no worry in the world. it almost felt like he was back to the time before anything had happened, when both of you were free and young and so so in love.  

The last one was still true, at least for him. He hoped that it was true for you too. 

You climbed up the ship, thanking Yunho who had helped you up and waving at everyone else. You were still laughing and happiness was such a good look on you. Hongjoong thought that you looked the most beautiful when you were smiling. 

You turned towards him and before he could say anything, you crashed your lips onto his. Hongjoong kissed you back immediately and he could almost taste your smile. Both of you ignored the disgusted cries of your crewmates, too lost in each other to notice.  

When you finally broke apart, gasping for breath as your body reminded you about your need for oxygen, you noticed that you were alone on the deck with Hongjoong. Everyone else had left, and it seemed like Seonghwa had ordered for the ship to weigh anchor as the captain was a bit preoccupied.  

You looked over to the said captain, who was coming to the same conclusion. Hongjoong’s hair was a mess and his lips were bruised. And he looked absolutely divine.  

“I doubt they need you for a while.” “They could do without us for some time.” 

Both of you spoke at the same time and you laughed. “Lead the way then, Captain.” 

“Please don’t call me that.” Hongjoong groaned, intertwining your fingers with his and pulling you below deck to his quarters. 

As soon as the door closed, you were all over him, kissing and nipping at his lips. Hongjoong matched your eagerness, his hands running over your body. You pinned him down on the bed, moving to unbutton his pants. His dick sprang up, already hard.  

You smirked at Hongjoong, kneeling down and taking him into your mouth. He groaned as you bobbed your head, squirming and gripping your hair. 

“Fuck, Y/n, that feels so good.” Hongjoong moaned, 

You fought the urge to gag, as you sped up, determined to get him to his high. Your cunt throbbed and the sounds Hongjoong was making were driving you crazy. 

“Ahh, fuck, Y/n, I’m going to cum.” He warned, right before he let go. You continued sucking him, determined not to waste a drop. Hongjoong shuddered at the sensation making you grin.   

You let his dick slip out of your mouth, grinning and licking your lips once more, just in case. You looked over at Hongjoong, who was looking at you like you were a goddess and resisted the urge to blush. 

“Come here, love.” Hongjoong pulled you over, lying you down on the bed as he took your panties off. You spread your legs, trying to hide your smirk at his entranced expression. 

 You were already wet enough that he could slip his fingers in without a problem. Slowly, too slowly, he slid his index finger in, causing you to moan at the sudden intrusion. Hongjoong started scissoring inside you, stretching you out for him. He found your sweet spot and you cried out in pleasure. 

“That feel good, huh?” He crooned, his voice making you clench around his fingers. 

Hongjoong sped his ministrations up, eager to be inside you. His impatient fingers made your toes curl as your orgasm quickly approached. However, as soon as you were about cum, he pulled away, leaving you tethered on the edge.   

“I think I’ve stretched you out enough, Y/n.” He chuckled darkly, fully aware of what he’d done. 

You whined in complain, making him laugh quietly. “I just want us to cum together, love.” Hongjoong said, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead. 

He stroked his dick once before lining it up with your hole. Then he slammed down into you causing you to yelp in pleasure at the slight burn. He set a merciless pace, too desperate to slow down. You dug you nails into his back harshly, keening at the sensation. Hongjoong groaned at the sting, sure that there were going to be indents when he woke up.  

Hongjoong’s quarters were full of the sound of skin slapping on skin and the little moans and groans the two of you were letting out. It was, in your opinion, the most beautiful melody in the world. As both of you chased your highs, Hongjoong came to the conclusion that your moans were better than any song he could ever hear. Nothing could compare to this. 

“Ahh, I’m going to cum, Joong.” You exhaled.  

You shuddered as you fell apart and Hongjoong didn’t stop thrusting into you until you slumped down, gasping for breath. He pulled out just after you were done, cumming on your stomach as he sighed in bliss.  

He flopped down beside you, pulling you into his arms as both of you came down from your highs. You snuggled into him, chest heaving as you both caught your breath.  

After a while of holding each other silently, you whispered, “Do you have a washcloth or am I going to have to walk to the bath covered in your cum?” 

Hongjoong snorted. “I do have a washcloth, but I feel like I would like the second option much more.” That earned him a light hearted smack on the arm from you and he laughed again. 

“Come on, let’s get cleaned up.” You nagged, unable to hide the fondness in your voice. 

Hongjoong picked up the washcloth beside his bed, cleaning you up. You winced, still sensitive, when he wiped your core. As you cleaned each other up, you marvelled at the soft domesticity of it all. Here you were, pirate and outlaw, and yet you were so gentle, so loving with each other. Hongjoong, and Ateez, made you feel the most humane you had in a long time. 

You collapsed back on the bed after you were done cleaning up and Hongjoong jumped in right after you. “Don’t you have to go check on the boys?” You asked, holding him closer to you. 

“That’s a paradox,” Hongjoong teased, “You can’t tell me go while not letting me leave.” 

You laughed, “Haven’t I always done that though?” 

“No, I’m pretty sure I’m the one who did that.” He said, lightly. 

“Then I guess the only option we have is not letting either of us go.” You spoke, meaning every word. “I love you, Kim Hongjoong.” 

“I love you too, Y/n.” Hongjoong said, the genuineness in his words making your heart melt. 

“But seriously, don’t you need to check on the boys? Seonghwa must be cursing your name by now.” You joked. 

Hongjoong grumbled. “He can handle it. I’m too tired and comfortable right now to leave. Go to sleep, love, that’s a problem for tomorrow.” 

You had to admit that you were too lazy to get up either. Yeah, Hongjoong was right, that was a problem for tomorrow. Right now, you would just enjoy your rare moment of peace and bask in the triumph and happiness of finally getting everything you wanted. 

You smiled at Hongjoong, who had already fallen asleep, before drifting off yourself. 

Epilogue. 

 You looked up from the loot you were rummaging through when you heard Jongho yell. If it was anyone else, you would have just ignored it, as them shouting without a reason was a very common thing. But no, this was Jongho. You rushed over and you saw that the rest of your crew had thought the same thing as you and they were going towards Jongho as well. 

“What is it? Are you ok?” You asked worriedly. 

Jongho didn’t reply, staring down at the bag he was holding in shock. 

“Jongho?” Hongjoong said, tapping at his shoulder. 

That seemed to shake Jongho out of the stupor, as he pulled out something from the bag. “It really is real,” Jongho whispered, voice shaky, “I was almost beginning to believe that it was just a fantasy.” 

You looked at the thing he was holding and looked up again in amazement. You could hardly believe it either because you too were starting to think that it was just a myth. You exchanged glances with Hongjoong and the rest of the boys as their expressions begun to change from surprise to joy.  

“We finally found it!” Wooyoung chuckled, thrilled.  

You started joined in the laughter as the crew cheered. 

Yes, you had finally found it. That thing that you were searching for months now, ever since you’d left Utopia behind. Ever since you were free to roam the seas. No, ever since you and Hongjoong had built Aurora.  

Ateez’s last goal, the ending. Ateez’s beginning. 

The Cromer. 

Taglist: @hanjisungs-bigtittyg0thgf

[womstarave]

X-RATED X-MAS DAY 1: TATTOO ARTIST SEONGHWA

christmas masterlist 🖤

pairing: tattoo artist!seonghwa x female!reader

rating: 18+

content/warnings: pet names (baby, pretty girl), oral sex (m rec.)

notes: this is just day 1! so if you have any requests or ✨thoughts✨ my inbox is open

NSFW 18+ | MINORS AND AGELESS BLOGS WILL BE BLOCKED

His face always lights up when he sees you book with him. Has a special notification just for it, and he always gets so excited seeing that “Baby 💋” booked his late-night slot. You were always intentional about that, weren’t you? Making sure to make your appointments well into the night. Usually long after everyone else would be gone. He’d be lying if he said he didn’t make those appointments just for you. After all, he could always focus better when it was just him alone with his favorite client. 

Makes himself sick with anticipation just wondering what you’re gonna get this time. There are so many places he hasn’t done yet. Your spine, your sternum, and even your collarbone still lay untouched by his art. And he’s just been begging for the day that he finally gets there. Just thinking about it makes him hard. And you haven’t even walked in the door yet. But simply imagining the way his ink lays out on your skin is so fucking enthralling to him. His baby. His favorite canvas.

Everyone is practically gone by the time you usually come in. And he’s only aware of your presence because of the bell above the door that dings when it swings open. That coupled with the clack of your heals on the tile floor and the way you call his name. “Hwa? You here?” And you continue to his station when he calls to you “Over here, baby.” He fails to hide the way he eyes you up and down as you walk over to him. Smiling when you greet him with a hug, wrapping your arms around his neck and letting his hands fall to your waist.

And he always asks, “What are we doing today, pretty girl?” You start playing with the ends of his hair. He knows what thet means straight away. You frown a bit, letting your lip jut out at him, “I wanted to get my tailbone done. I don’t really know what though…but you always know how to make me look pretty.” He smirks at you, “Thank you, baby. I’ll draw up something really pretty for ya. Now what was our budget for today?” It’s a leading question. You both know it. And you just look up at him with big eyes, lip pulled between your teeth. He never should have asked. It’s not like he was gonna make you pay anyway. Not with money at least.

You always look so painfully pretty in his chair, too. And back tattoos are his favorite. Gives him such a perfect view of your ass. Which you playfully wiggle for him from time to time. Just for him to smack your thigh and tell you to “Sit still, baby” before going back to his work. But he’s always shamelessly hard when he’s tattooing you. Especially when you whine at something hurting. Or when you just talk to him in that sweet voice of yours. The one you use when you want something.

And you do want something. Not just the free tattoo. And Seonghwa always pretends he’s not gonna fuck you. Telling you he has to “be professional” and warning that sex with a very fresh tattoo is a horrible idea. But when he finishes your little tramp stamp and the first thing you do is drop to your knees in front of his mirror? He has no other choice. His fingers are tangled in your hair as you bob your head on his cock. Always taking him so well. Your hands, which are adored with his work, gripping his thighs for dear life. And he can act surprised all he wants, but in the end you’re always just his pretty girl on your knees for a pretty tattoo.

general taglist: 

@swimmingkpopblog @oddracha @drinkingrumandcocacola @minaateez @funnyvxlentine 

@sunnysidesins @skzdust @princelingperfect @seomisaho @bigboymoozz

@fireseo @atzlordz

ateez taglist: 

@certifiedmoa @wooyoungmybelovedhusband @curiousgworge @hyukssunflower @hotteokisms 

@sushiinmidnight @atiny-dime-p1ece @mismatchfluffysocks @vic0921 @vampzity 

@breadpuddingboys @woolysium @desirehorizon @im-ovulation @pommelex 

@dancingwithdeities @maidens-world @jycas @kirbrary @aftertherain-atr 

@staytinyinmybpack @m4n4-s4m4 @jjcanwrite @yvnhoos @uninterested-ghost 

@yizhou-time @shinyj3lly @kyeos4ng @prettygirlslietoo @miriamxsworld 

@tiny2018 @ttdogsworld @kejingken @fandom-freak-geek @minkioswoo 

@bkimrose @strawbshrtcks @dwcljh @linearities @tiredlittlevirgo

@kwoncheesecake

[womstarave]

cutee

insomnia/nightmares with bf!yunho (i'm lowkey feeling really down about my writing lately so i'm gonna shamelessly ask you to be nice to me and leave some feedback)

Four nights in a row. Four consecutive nights you’ve had to deal with this. Waking up in a cold sweat, heart racing, and feeling dazed. You had no idea why, but the nightmares wouldn’t stop. They were never anything memorable. Just fleeting glimpses into whatever hellscape your brain decided to conjure up that night. But their effects were very real.

You had gone to bed tonight bracing yourself to be woken up in the earliest hours of the morning by a bad dream, but it came on just as quick and painfully as the nights before.

Without waking up your sleeping boyfriend beside you, you slipped out of the bed, making sure to pull the blanket back over his shoulders before stepping out of the room. You knew Yunho would probably be a little upset if he knew you didn’t tell him about these repeated nightmares, but it was three in the morning, which meant he had to be up in two hours for work anyway. So you wanted to let him get his rest.

Grabbing yourself a glass of water, you stood at the kitchen counter, scrolling on your phone to try and give yourself some peace of mind.

After four long nights of this nonsense, you were starting to get incredibly frustrated. Without even a clue of why they seemed so persistent, you just felt defeated. And tired. Going off of roughly three hours of sleep every night just was not cutting it, and you could feel yourself getting more and more agitated as the nights went on. 

You scrolled through your phone for a couple more minutes before you heard the very familiar creak of your bedroom door. Looking up, you saw your boyfriend standing in the doorway, half-asleep, with a large blanket over his shoulders.

He stifled a yawn with his hand as he met you in the kitchen, “What’s going on?” He muttered sleepily.

Cute. You couldn’t help but run a hand through his sleep-tousled hair and cup his cheek in your palm. “I’m sorry, love. I just couldn’t sleep.”

“Mmh,” he groaned, leaning into your touch, the tiredness still very evident in his eyes, “Did you have another nightmare?”

You frowned slightly but nodded, “Yeah.”

A soft pout formed on his face as he wrapped his arms around your shoulders, the blanket covering both of you, “You said you would wake me up this time.” 

You leaned into his chest and hugged his waist, “I know…but I didn’t wanna bother you. You have to work super early today.”

“I know, baby,” he kissed the top of your head, “but I still want to be here for you. I feel bad knowing I’m getting all my sleep when you’re just out here stressing yourself out.”

“I’m sorry…”

He squeezed you a bit tighter to his chest, “It’s okay, baby. I’m here now, okay?”

You nodded, fully relaxing into his arms.

“Do you wanna go back to bed? Or do you think you’ll have another nightmare?”

“Can we stay out here? Maybe turn on the TV and lay on the couch?”

He grinned sleepily at you, “You want cuddles?”

“Yes,” you kissed him on the cheek. And even in the low light of the kitchen you can see his ears turn dark red at the sudden kiss.

Guiding you to the couch, he lays down first and pulls you down on top of him, wrapping the blanket around you once again. You flipped through the channels on the TV before landing on a rerun of a sitcom you had never even heard of. 

Laying on Yunho’s chest, you listened to his steady heartbeat while he played with your hair. You mindlessly watched the TV as he held you. 

Only a few minutes passed before you felt the hand in your hair stop on top of your head. Glancing up, you saw that he had fallen asleep. Smiling, you snuggled further into his chest and hoped that you could do the same.

[womstarave]

Sick Day

Bsf!Jongho x Gn!Reader

Summary : in which you accidentally stood up your best friend because of cold.

Cw : gender neutral "you/yours" reader, sfw, fluff, best friend-to-lover (but the lover part isn't here yet), jongho is a tease, reader's size isn't mentioned but jongho can lift them up (he's strong af, it doesn't matter how big or how small you are, he can lift you up as easy as breaking those apples).

inspired by this zayne memories, it's one of my favorite 4* memories of zayne, writing this makes me miss playing L&DS now...

masterlist

You groaned as your eyes slowly opened, you feel your head pounding and body aching. A sneeze comes out from your nose, before feeling the congestion clogging your nose. Everything felt heavy, your limbs sluggish as you rolled over to grab your phone.

1:43 PM.

Your eyes widened in panic.

"Oh my god—Jongho!" you gasped, sitting up too quickly, making your head dizzy.

You were supposed to meet Jongho today. You both had planned this hangout a week ago, and now you had completely forgotten because of this stupid cold.

Before you could even process what to do, a loud knock echoed through your apartment making you flinch.

Dragging your aching body out of bed, you shuffled towards the front door of your apartment, feeling weak and feverish. As soon as you opened it you're greeted with Jongho, his arms crossed, expression unreadable.

"You finally answered, I've been standing here—knocking for the past 20 minutes," he said flatly.

You swallowed nervously. "Jongho, I—I’m so sorry. I—" You cut yourself off with a sniffle, eyes watering. The cold was making you more emotional than usual, and the sight of Jongho standing there, looking unimpressed, made you feel even worse.

Jongho’s stern expression wavered when he saw your bleary eyes, wet nose, and your hair was a mess—Clearly you just woken up—with a bad cold at that. He sigh as he stepped inside, closing the door behind him.

"You should've atleast texted me," he scolded, leading you back to your bedroom. "Do you think I wouldn’t be worried?"

"I—I forgot," You mumbled, sniffling again as Jongho tucked you into bed and sit on your bedside. "I didn’t mean to stood you up…"

Jongho exhaled through his nose. "I know," he muttered with a more soft voice this time, ruffling your messy hair gently before standing up. "That’s why I brought food. I figured something was wrong when you didn’t show up."

Your bleary eyes blinked at him. He ordered food before coming here? So he was never actually mad about being stood up—he was mad because he was worried.

You felt warm—not just from the fever but from Jongho’s actions.

"Just stay in bed, okay?" he said before turning towards the kitchen.

You hummed before sinking back into your bed, sighing softly. After a while of shifting, tossing and turning on the bed—and failed to fall back asleep, curiosity finally got the best of you and you dragged yourself to the kitchen, only to find Jongho rummaging through your cabinets.

"Where did you put your medicine box?" he asked, without even glancing over his shoulder.

"Oh, it’s just right above this cupboard—"

Before you could reach for it, Jongho stopped you with a firm hand on your wrist. "No, stop. I was just asking where it is."

You raised an eyebrow before huffing. "Jongho, it’s just a cold. I’m not disabled." You said slightly irked at him before trying to reach up again.

But before you can even touch the cabinet, Jongho simply lifted you up by your waist making you yelp and placed you on the counter behind him, as if you weighed nothing.

"Still stubborn as ever, even when you’re sick," he muttered, grabbing the medicine and setting it beside you on the counter.

Crossing your arms, you frowned. "I’m sick, and you’re not supposed to treat a sick person like this." You said as you watch jongho reached for a glass, the soft hum of the faucet filled the quiet kitchen as water streamed into the glass. He raised an eyebrow before turned on his heel.

As he walked back, placed the glass beside the medicine and stood between your legs, arms both beside your thighs on the counter—effectively caging you in.

"Oh yeah? Then how am I supposed to treat you?" he asked, voice dropping to a lower register.

You feel shiver run down your spine at the close proximity. "i don't know… maybe a little bit nicer... since I’m unwell," you stuttered, looking anywhere but at him.

Jongho smirked. He reached for your chin, tilting it face so your eyes met his. He leans closer until both of your foreheads touched and breaths mingling. His gaze flickered from your eyes to your lips before focusing back on your eyes, something unreadable in his expression.

"Is that what you want?" he murmured. "You want me to spoil you hm?"

Your brain short-circuited. Your throat dried up, and you couldn’t form words.

Satisfied with your reaction, Jongho finally pulled away, smirking. "Eat the food and take your medicine," he said nonchalantly, walking off.

It took you a moment to process what just happened before you yelled after him.

"Jongho, you jerk!"

divider by @.adornedwithlight | likes, reblogs, and comments are very appreciated ♡

[womstarave]

atz as thirst instagram dm’s

bom note: i used google translate for hj’s part im sorry. also i genuinely can’t stop laughing at ys its literally the entire reason i made this post

[womstarave]

this is adorable🫶

──── 𝗒𝗈𝗎𝗋 𝖺𝗋𝗆𝗌. smg.

ׂ ִ 𝐒𝐔𝑀𝐌. 𝗆𝗂𝗇𝗀𝗂𝗌 𝗃𝗎𝗌𝗍 𝖺 𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘭𝘦 𝗍𝗈𝗎𝖼𝗁 𝖽𝖾𝗉𝗋𝗂𝗏𝖾𝖽. • 𝐩. 𝗆𝗂𝗇𝗀𝗂 𝗑 𝑓. 𝗋𝖾𝖺𝖽𝖾𝗋 𝐠. 𝑓𝗅𝗎𝖿𝖿, 𝖽𝗈𝗆𝖾𝗌𝗍𝗂𝖼 𝐰. pet names, 𝗉𝗁𝗒𝗌𝗂𝖼𝖺𝗅 𝗍𝗈𝗎𝖼𝗁, 𝗄𝗂𝗌𝗌𝖾𝗌, 𝑒𝑡𝑐. | 𝐃𝐀𝐈𝐋𝐘 𝐂𝐋𝐈𝐂𝐊.

reblogs + feedback = appreciated.

you flipped through the pages of your book, settling into the soft surface of your bed. mingi entered your bedroom as you became more immersed in your book.

he sighed loudly, walking towards the bed, not saying anything at first. he sat on his side of the bed for a moment; his back facing you as you continued reading.

after a few minutes, he turned to you, laying back and resting his head on your shoulder.

“hi, pretty boy,” you spoke softly, bringing your arm to wrap around him, burying your hand in his strands.

“hey.” he mumbled against your skin, almost pressing a kiss there. his arms rested against his sides, seeming like he wanted to wrap them around you but he didn’t.

“what’s wrong? hm?” you asked, glancing down at him for a split second. he inhaled, hesitating.

“nothing, i just..”

you closed your book, “go ahead, im listening.”

“i miss you..”

“but im right here, ming,” you giggled, combing your fingers through his hair once more. he shifted, his arms moving closer to wrap around you.

“no, i mean, you. your touch.. and—“ he stopped himself, his arms slithering around your waist, squeezing. his leg was thrown across yours as his body moved closer.

you started to realize what he meant, so you pulled him closer, placing a kiss in his forehead.

“why didn’t you just say so, baby?”

he shrugged, still trying to move closer, as if that were possible. he picked his head up off of your shoulder, glancing down at your lips before he pressed a small kiss against them.

he pecked them once, and then twice, which eventually turned into more kisses than you could count.

“mmph, mingi!” you laughed as he climbed on top of you, his hands coming to drift under your shirt, resting at your sides as he peppered more kisses against your lips.

“missed you..” he mumbled again before giving you one more kiss, one that was more deep, less playful but filled with love and passion.

💌 ──── finally a post from dollerin (we cheered) ^^

[womstarave]

read the whole thing in about 2 hours, a very enjoyable experience i must say

✩°⋆｡ system error ⋆｡°✩ - 48

chapter 48 ✧ be square

< previous ✧ m.list ✧ next >

synopsis ✧ you've always dreamt of having your fantasy-like love story. naturally, hearing the sweet melodic ring of your love alarm was what you wanted the most, right? until it actually happened. four times.

pairing ✧ uni student! choi san x fem! uni student! reader

warnings/tags ✧ timestamps/numbers don't mean anything, swearing

note ✧ final 2 (or 3) chapters will be posted next week so enjoy the ride while it lasts :( (typing this through imaginary tears because icb it'll be over soon, system error is like my baby) i'm down to make bonus chapters so if there is something you wish to see, i'm open to suggestions!

i hope you enjoyed this chapter! as always feedback, comments and reblogs are appreciated! my inbox is always open too so feel free to leave something in there even if it's not related to system error <3

taglist ✧ @flamingi @huachengsbestie01 @minihong99 @staytinyluv @luvpeachkes @gh9sty @dawn-iscozy @zaraxnid @latisthegenderfluidwannabealone @m-ray-72 @leesalts @hyunnjiin @xeirisarax

[womstarave]

y/n just as crazy as me

‎‧₊˚✧ bf!ateez texts ✧˚₊‧

they send you a bf picture

warnings: some suggestive content, unhinged memes… what else? 👀

note: my first ateez text post did pretty well so I figured I’d try this one out too. Thank you so much for all the love! Please feel free to request :)

[womstarave]

i’m pissing myself

texting bf!ateez about period shexxx

pairing: bf!ateez x reader

warnings: mdni, mature themes, some nsfw (?)

a/n: i love the text fics as much as you guys, so here's another one. tysm for reading & interacting <3333

[womstarave]

this made me giggle its so cute

Is That Me?

Streamer!Yunho x Fem!reader

summary : in which yunho makes his in game avatar eerily similar to you and thought no one will notice.

cw : she/her reader, sfw, fluff, gaming streamer yunho, yunho is a tsundere, the reader got some sort of cute agression towards yunho, kisses, they are in love your honor🙏 very short.

this is inspired by this trend on tiktok where people makes their game avatar look like their girlfriend and i find it absolutely adorable

Masterlist

Yunho had been live for a couple of hours now, the streamer is deeply focused on customizing his character in a new RPG. He had spent an embarrassingly long time tweaking the facial features—adjusting the shape of the eyes, softening the lips, picking the right skin color. His chat had caught on quickly.

> “Yunho, that’s literally Y/N.”

> “Bro, you’re not even being subtle.”

> “Tell me why this character looks IDENTICAL to your girlfriend.”

> “Obsessed much?”

He scoffed at the comments, shaking his head. “Nah, nah, it’s just a coincidence,” he muttered, but his chat was relentless.

> “Sure, dude. You even picked her exact beauty mark.”

> “The denial is crazy LMAO.”

But Yunho paid no mind. He was too immersed in finalizing the outfit choices, his eyes locked on the screen, completely unaware of the soft creak of the front door opening behind him.

You had just gotten home from work, tired but excited to finally see your boyfriend. You walked through your shared apartment, following the familiar sound of your boyfriend voice on his gaming room, opening his door only to stop dead in your tracks when you caught sight of his screen.

your eyes widened.

Is that… you on his game?

Yunho was still too focused, humming to himself as he adjusted the character’s hairstyle.

You grinned mischievously before creeping up behind his chair. Without warning, you threw your arms around his neck from behind, pressing against him as you practically yelled in his ear, “IS THAT ME??”

Yunho jumped. His whole body stiffened, his hands jerking the mouse so hard that his character spun in circles on screen. His chat exploded.

> “SHE CAUGHT YOU LMAOOOO.”

> “BUSTED BUSTED BUSTED.”

> “OH, YOU’RE SO DONE.”

He turned his head slowly, wide-eyed, meeting your smug gaze. “Wh-What are you doing here?” he stammered, ignoring the way his ears turned pink.

“I live here, Yunho.” You giggled, squeezing him tighter. “Now tell me—” you pointed at the screen “—why does this character look EXACTLY like me?”

“I mean how are you home so early? and It’s just a coincidence.” He cleared his throat, trying to sound nonchalant.

You gasped dramatically, clutching your chest. “So you’re saying I look basic?”

Yunho’s hands shot up in defense. “No! No, that’s not what I meant—” While he's trying to think of an excuse, his chat was having the time of their lives.

> “AW HELL NAW HE FELL FOR THE TRAP.”

> “RIP Yunho 1999-2025.”

> “Just admit it, bro.”

Meanwhile, you leaned closer, pressing loud, exaggerated kisses all over his cheek and jawline. “Aww, you’re so cute~” you cooed between kisses. “You made me in your game and tried to act like you didn’t! That’s adorable!”

“Quit it!” Yunho whined, wiggling in his chair, but he wasn’t really resisting. His face was completely red now as he tried to hide a big grin on his face behind his hand.

You finally stopped, grinning ear to ear. “Admit it, baby,” teasingly tilting your head. “You remember my face so well you made my character without even looking at a picture, huh?”

Yunho pursed his lips, staying painfully silent, face still hidden behind his hand. His chat knew the truth.

> “He 100% did.”

> “Bro has her memorized at heart.”

> “Simp behavior and I respect it.”

After a moment, Yunho sighed in defeat. “...Maybe.”

“Maybe?” you gasped again, dramatically clutching your heart. “The bare minimum acknowledgment??”

Yunho rolled his eyes, finally relenting. He reached for your wrist and tugged you onto his lap. “Fine, fine. Yeah. I made her look like you on purpose. Happy?”

You beamed, wrapping your arms around his neck again. “Very~”

“Alright, but now you have to stay and stream with me,” Yunho said, acting as if he was the one making the demands.

You didn’t hesitate. “Deal.”

And so, for the rest of the stream, You sat comfortably on his lap, constantly pointing out every little detail he got right—down to the curve of your smile and the arch of your eyebrows—while Yunho pretended to focus on playing. His chat, however, wouldn't live this down.

> “Yunho’s whipped and we love to see it.”

> “Best stream ever.”

> “Y/N never shuts up about how cute he is and honestly? Same.”

Even though Yunho stayed quiet, his shy little smiles gave him away. And deep down, he didn’t mind—because, well… they weren’t wrong.

divider by @.adornedwithlight | likes, reblogs, and comments, are very appreciated ♡

[womstarave]

we are gonna win (rocky) - jeong yunho x fem!reader

summary: coming home to find your bf streaming valorant, he's oh so very puppy coded, 1.3k wc

warnings: slightly suggestive jokes, tooth-rotting fluff, golden retriever whipped bf yunho <3

ateez masterlist / other masterlists

from outside the door to your apartment, you could hear yunho inside. you had gotten a notification about him streaming on your way home, assuming he'd be caught up in his game for at least a few more hours after you got home.

however, as soon as you closed the door behind you, yunho jumped up from his chair, abandoning his computer mid-game, rushing to help relieve you of your heavy bags. “your game! they're killing you!” you flinched at seeing the death animation over and over.

“that's okay, jagi. the game can wait, tell me about your day,” he gently kissed your cheek, helping you put away all of the food shopping. “are you still streaming?” you glanced at the camera directed at his chair.

“yeah, but i can turn it off,” he was about to walk over to his monitor, but you gently grabbed his wrist to stop him. “no, no, it's okay. i just don't want to say the wrong thing in front of all of those people,” you assured him. “you could never say the wrong thing,” he grabbed a dish towel, covering your faces with it from the side.

you giggled, “yuyu, what are you doing?” he pressed a gentle but loving kiss to your lips, taking you by surprise, “just showing my girl the love she deserves.” the blood rushing to your ears was a telltale sign of your flustered state, his words comforting you like a warm blanket in winter.

“honey, you should go back to your stream, your fans miss you,” you tease him, holding his free hand in both of yours. “but then i’ll be the one missing you,” he pouted, his eyes suddenly lighting up, “unless you come and sit with me.”

he looked at you with the softest expression he could muster up, though you remained composed, “but i don't have any makeup on.” the furrow of his brow spoke a thousand words, “jagi, you're beautiful when you don't have makeup on. i promise, you look gorgeous right now.”

to emphasise his point, he wrapped his arms around your waist, kissing your forehead before staring deep into your eyes. you sighed, yielding. who were you to say no to sitting in your boyfriend's lap for the foreseeable future. “just let me get changed into something comfortable quickly, then i’ll join you,” you walked over to your bedroom door.

“can i watch?” he half ran, half stumbled, as he followed you. gently placing your hand on his chest, you pushed him back towards his desk, “next time,” you promised, “your viewers will be missing your pretty face.” he dropped his head, dragging his feet along the floor as he admitted his defeat.

he went to the kitchen first to prepare some food for you both quickly, sitting back down in his gaming chair, the plate next to his keyboard. “boyfriend duties,” he briefly explained his absence to the stream before putting his headset back on.

from the other room, you could hear him as he picked up a phone call. “jeong yunho,” wooyoung's distinctive voice could be heard from a mile away. “careful, woo. i’m streaming,” the blonde warned him. the younger member's eye roll could practically be heard from down the line.

“you're so whipped, you just left your own stream for over ten minutes while in the middle of a game that you definitely would've won-,” wooyoung cackled. “bye, woo,” yunho hung up, a subtle blush creeping up his neck.

wooyoung was one of the biggest supporters of your relationship with yunho, always keeping him in check and making sure he was treating you right. as you walked out of your room in one of yunho's shirts which was too big and a pair of pyjama shorts, your boyfriend could not take his eyes off of you.

his expression mimicked that of a dog seeing a bone, if the bone was walking towards it with a smirk upon it's face. “yuyu?” you gently tapped his open jaw, reminding him that he was staring. “you look so pretty in my clothes,” he pulled you onto his lap, burying his face into the crook of your neck.

smiling shyly at the camera, you waved at all the fans watching, allowing yunho to take a moment to compose himself. “hello, atiny,” you bowed your head slightly, “has he been swearing a lot at the 12 year olds that are better than him?”

the chat immediately began to flood with praises of how calm he had been, and a few viewers warned him of stream snipers. you quickly opened his streaming software to reposition his camera footage over the minimap, hoping to deter any cheaters.

yunho's arms snaked around your waist, reaching his keyboard and mouse with ease. absentmindedly, you massaged his bicep as you read some of the comments that were disappearing so quickly.

“an atiny asked if you would be okay with me spending just one night with them,” you giggled, teasing yunho. instinctively, his grip on you tightened and he pressed his lips together, shaking his head, while maintaining focused on his monitor.

the round ended, and yunho leaned forward a little bit to rest his chin on your shoulder. “would you want to?” his voice was meek, a hint of fear laced within his question. “never, pup,” you scratched the back of his neck gently, feeling his head drop into the crook of your neck as his hands left his setup to hold you as though you would disappear if he let go.

“can i try?” you clicked a random button on his keyboard. he instantly perked up at your words, eager to explain the mechanics of the game and the controls to you.

when he rested his hands atop yours, they dwarfed them in an almost comical way. he guided you through getting the hang of moving around while using the mouse to look for opponents.

“atiny, do you think i can win?” you asked the stream, knowing with absolute confidence you were about to lower yunho's ranking fatally. he read the comments on his phone, blushing as they all started to cheer you on.

there was always a shadow of doubt within his mind that some fans wouldn't like that he had a girlfriend and try and insult you, but he was always pleasantly surprised when they supported you and your relationship with him.

he let you lose as many rounds as you wanted to, despite his teammates getting furious in the chat and reporting him for being a highly ranked player that was so incompetent. there wasn't a thing in the world he wouldn't do for you.

after a while, you got frustrated with doing so badly, letting yunho regain control of the game. he kissed the side of your face over and over, “you did so well, pretty.” you leaned back into him as he began to play with fans, letting your eyes close.

yunho was getting more competitive than ever now, determined to look good in front of the atiny he was playing with. when he took a break from being in the zone, he looked to see what people were saying, the majority of comments telling him to quieten down.

confused, he showed you the screen, asking what they meant. when he didn't get a response, he sat up a little to look at you, noticing your relaxed expression and even breathing. he gently kissed your closed eyelids, whispering a little apology and ending the stream with a hushed speech of gratitude for everyone who watched.

he carefully stood up with you in his arms, carrying you to bed and letting you bury your face into his neck. a rush of excitement coursed through his veins as you moved closer to him in your sleep. he never wanted you to doubt his love for you, pressing a soft kiss to the crown of your head, and joining you in your dreams.

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