#/ feeling like jumping at people if work goes slow today

[seaofkakera]

Anyways inbox call, no limit for now. Please specify muse in reply, if not it'll be a jumpscare surprise for whoever you get.

[too-much-tma-stuff]

Finally Getting Help (prt. 10)

Mastterpost

A/N: Thank you all for the well wishes about my dog. Unfortunately he didn't make it and pass away Tuesday morning in the vet's office. I was able to get some writing done but I don't have the energy to edit. Let me know if you find any mistakes.

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Jason: hey, thanks for the gun and the tech, it's really cool.

Danny: new phone who dis 😝

Jason: I hope you haven't given too many people guns in the last couple days.

Danny: no I haven't, thanks for texting me Jason. Have you got a chance to try the gun?

Jason: not on anything moving, I've been doing some target practice to get a feel for it though. Looking forward to when I can test it on Vlad.

Danny: aww are you going to avenge my honor 🥺

Jason: if you want me too. I'll bring you his head if you want me too.

Danny: 🥰 you're so sweet. I wouldn't say no to seeing him suffer for what he's done but don't get yourself in any trouble okay? And if you do call me right away. I'll come rescue you 😘

Jason: hey I'm the one offering to protect you! 

Danny: we can protect each other. And fight each other, can you come spar again soon?

Jason: I wouldn't call that sparring, more like brawling.

Danny: eh potato potato, do you want to come fight me again?

Jason: if demon brat won't kill me for it, sure. Can I take you out for dinner afterwards? I have some questions

Danny: It's a date! Just tell me when

Jason: Day after tomorrow? I have some work to take care of first.

Danny: Sounds great! And it is a date right? You don't mind that I'm going to have kids?

Jason: the kids aren't a deal breaker I promise but let's not jump the gun okay? We're going to be family through B so we don't want this to blow up in our faces. Let's hang out, take it slow, see how it goes. You need to be careful about who you let into your life now anyway, you can't just let anyone around you and the babies.

Danny: don't tell me what to do 😠 but you're right. I'm bad about rushing into things. I'm still looking forward to it.

Danny: By the way Jazz uploaded the power point she made about Liminals and Ghosts to the bat’s server thing. You have access to that right? You should read that before we meet and I can fill in the gaps.

Jason: Sounds good, I’ll have a look at it and I’m looking forward to it too. I'll be there at 5 so we can spar before dinner. Don't forget to warn B and your guard dog.

Danny: Damian is a good kid. I'll let them know.

Danny stared at his new phone Tim had given him with apprehension. The chat with Jason had gone very well, and Danny was glad he reached out but there were other people he really needed to reach out to and he was… frankly scared. Sam and Tucker were his best friends and had always been there for him but they both had tempers. Would they be mad that he hadn’t told them he was pregnant? Would they be upset he had left Amity and wasn’t planning on coming back?

He needed to reach out though, the longer he waited the harder it would be to talk to them, and things wouldn’t stay calm as they were now. Vlad would be back to cause trouble again and even though the JLD had control of the portal but he was sure his rogues would find their way through eventually. Vlad had his own portal anyway, and Danny wouldn’t put it past him to open it just to annoy Danny. Maybe try and weaken him a little so Vlad could swoop in and pick him off.

Today was quiet, he needed to take this chance. He sighed and got up off the edge of his bed where he was sitting and ducked out of his room. He didn’t want to do this alone, so he wasn’t surprised when he found himself in the library where Jazz was studying. 

He sat down across from her and reached across, laying his hand, palm up on the table. Without looking up from her book she reached over and placed her hand in his, giving it a gentle squeeze. He smiled at her and took a deep breath before putting on his earbuds and sending a message in the group chat.

Danny: When you guys are ready can we call?

Jazz phone went off too and she checked it, smiled at Danny, and then silenced the chat and went back to her book. She didn’t need to be part of this call but at least she knew what he was doing. 

Sam: Yes, let me just grab Tuck. He’s playing Doomed.

Danny took a deep breath and put down his phone while he waited for them to call and tried not to panic.

When the phone buzzed he jumped and reached for it, joining the call quickly. 

“Hey guys,” He said, awkwardly, waving with the hand that wasn’t holding the phone.

“Hey yourself! What the heck happened Danny?! Basically the whole town joined in in chasing Vlad when we found out what he did but why did we have to find out on tv?! Why didn’t you tell us?!” Sam said, but at least she just seemed stressed, not actually angry.

“I’m sorry guys,” Danny said, wincing a little when he heard Tucker sniffling a little. “I hadn’t told anyone yet. I hadn’t even fully accepted it yet honestly.

“I still wasn’t ready to talk about it, bur Cass is really good at reading people's body language and I guess she clocked that I was carrying them by how I kept unconsciously touching my stomach. When she asked me about it it sorta broke through my denial and I broke down which started the ball rolling on… all this,” He said with a vague gesture.”

“All this is right!The justice league really brought the hammer down on Amity. They’re dismantling the GIW and really pissed at the government and basically all the adults in the town for letting this happen. And they arrested your parents!” Sam said sounding almost excited.

“Sam! That was really insensitive! They’re still his parents, what if he didn’t know!?” Tucker broke in furiously. 

“No it’s alright I knew, Jazz told me. She’s here with me,” He said squeezing her hand though she wasn’t paying attention to the call.

“Okaaay so where is Here?” Tucker asked warily. 

“Ya are you safe? We haven’t seen you since all this went down! Are you really with Bruce Wayne?” Sam asked sounding wary.

“Yes I am. He’s got a foster license and since his kids were the one that found out what was going on it just made sense that I’d stay here.”

“And he’s Not another Fruitloop?” Sam asked warily. “You need to be careful with these rich people you know? They’re basically all crazy!”

“Sam you’re rich,” Danny pointed out, amused. 

“Ya, and? My point stands!”

“Fair enough,” Danny laughed. “But no, I did some snooping the first night I was here and it seems okay. And since he’s got close ties to the Justice League he was able to get the help we really needed, and he says he might be able to help me meet Martian Manhunter!”

“Don’t fanboy out too bad,” Tucker teased him.

“Oh ya? And what if I helped you meet Tim Drake? Would you not be just as bad,” Danny accused Tucker.

“Touche,” Tucker said. “Could you though?”

“I mean maybe? He’s my foster brother now and he seems cool. You two are my best friends, if I’m going to stay I’m sure you could come visit me and meet all of them.” 

“Are you really going to stay there though? I mean once the GIW and everything is cleared out you could stay with either of us. I know my parents aren’t your biggest fans but I know they’d let you stay,” Sam said sounding worried. 

“And I know my family doesn't have a ton of money but they adore you, we’d make it work,” Tucker added looking worried.

“No, guys I really appreciate the offer but… I don’t want to come back to Amity. The Justice League said they shut down the portal and I really need a fresh start I think. I think I’d rather stay here. Jazz too, she’s gonna study at Gotham U and intern at Arkham,” He said. She looked up at the mention of her name and gave him a small smile.

“I’m sorry, you guys are my best friends and I’ll miss you, but there are too many… memories in Amity you know?”

“Ya I get that,” Sam said, looking sad and distant.

“We can still call, and play Doomed together, and visit on breaks!” Tucker said, his chipper tone sounding a little forced. “We’re going to say friends!” He insisted and Danny smiled.

“Of course we will Tuck,” He promised. They might grow apart with the distance between them, but he hoped not, they really were his best friends.

“Ya, my parents will probably be thrilled about this development and want me to come over all the time. They love the Waynes,” Sam chuckled though her optimism also seemed a bit forced. Of course she was more of a pessimist, she probably thought they would drift apart, but knew Danny needed them right now. 

“Soo what’s been going on in Amity since I left?” Danny asked, letting them ramble about the drama, the rumours, and the bullshit that was the bullies and everyone in the school sudden;y pretending they cared about Danny soooo much.

After they finished telling him about it there were a few beats of silence and Danny was just about to suggest they hang up when Sam spoke up again. 

“So, what actually happened with Vlad? If you don’t want to talk about it that’s okay but…”

“No, it’s okay. It’s not what- what you’d think. It’s superhero bullshit really. When I wouldn’t be his son he decided to try and clone me, you met Dani with an I right? She was one of the clones. But he didn’t know I was trans, and my DNA got all fucked up in the portal so none of the clones were stable. I have no idea how many he tried to make that died. But when I found out it was because he had lied to Dani and told her he needed me to stabilize her clone brothers. It was a batch of ten.

“But he lied, he didn’t actually care about stabilizing them, he was going to let them all die. I was only able to save the two that were most stable and only by taking their cores into myself. So I’m not normal pregnant, I’m ghost pregnant. 

What is my life huh?” He finished, chuckling awkwardly. 

“Oh fuck,” Sam said her shoulders slumping a little even as her expression went through a range of emotions. “That’s better in a way but still a whole different type of fucked up! I hope they catch him soon.”

“I hope so too but I don’t think they will,” Danny said with a shrug. “Not before he tries something else. I’m not lucky enough to be able to just move past this,” He said with a bitter little laugh.

“Well, we can still hope. And even if he does cause trouble you have more allies now! You’ve been able to handle everything else he’s thrown at you basically on your own, with the Justice League behind you I know there’s nothing you can’t handle. I mean, Vlad is kind of pathetic anyway,” Tucker encouraged making Danny smile. 

“Ya, you’re right, I’m sure it’ll be fine. Thanks guys,” he said fondly. 

“Of course dude! We’re here for you!” Tucker said.

“It’s really good to hear from you too. Don’t be a stranger okay?” Sam said, a bit worried.

“Of course not, I’ll keep you posted I promise.” Danny assured before they said their goodbyes and he hung up. 

He put down his phone and leaned back with a sigh, closing his eyes for a moment. Next to him Jazz chuckled and there was a soft snap as she closed her book. 

“You did well little brother,” She told him, getting up from her seat she moved behind him and rested her hands on his shoulders.

“How do you know? You weren’t listening.”

“No, but you reached out to your friends and had an honest conversation which isn’t easy. You did well,” She reiterated, squeezing his shoulders.

“Well thanks Jazz. I hope that they’re right that we won’t lose touch, and I’ll be able to handle whatever Vlad does,” He grumbled. 

“I’m sure we will,” Jazz promised. “And either way there’s no point in worrying about it now. Has Jason texted you yet?” She asked, giving Danny the excuse he needed to change the subject and launch into his more petty worries about the upcoming date as she sat back down to listen.

Next

[personasintro]

Employed 01 | jjk

⏤𝘴𝘺𝘯𝘰𝘱𝘴𝘪𝘴; Being independent while living the harsh reality of adulthood is sparked by arrogance in the form of the most infuriating man you've ever met.

⏤𝘱𝘢𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨: ceo!jungkook x reader

⏤𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘳𝘦: fluff, angst, smut, slow burn, enemies to lovers

⏤𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴: explicit language

⏤𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘵: 16.4k+

banner by: @archivedkookie // thank you so much again for making this for me! ♡

index (to be added)

El: I think I'm drunk again

"think or know?"

El: know then

El: turns out I didn't have sex yesterday 

El: god I already masturbated twice today!!!

You could survive without that information, a snicker leaving your mouth at your best friend's messages. She had a date yesterday. Well, you're not sure if it was officially a date or she just hung out with one of her co-workers she's been flirting with for weeks now. 

Elaine broke up with her then boyfriend recently. This co-worker of hers has caught her eyes even when she was in a relationship (with a total douchebag). Not mentioning he's still in a relationship with his girlfriend. They're not on good terms either but still. It's complicated and who are you to judge?

"make it three then" 

El: it's not helping :/

"because he's all you're thinking about"

That one is true. He's been a topic number one in any of your conversations.

El: that's true lol

El: but I'm kinda scared to get involved with someone from my work

"I'm not surprised, it usually is like that"

"but look, you're never gonna find out if you don't try it"

While you're trying to be as supportive as a best friend can be, you do have your own opinion about her little shenanigans. But in the end, you do want her to be happy and not be depressed because of her two failed relationships from before. This guy at least seems to be treating her right and he's a proper gentleman. Not a red flag which cannot be said about the previous two ones. 

El: so you think I should give it a chance?

Jumping from one relationship to another is... you're not sure what to think of it. Everyone's different and you try to keep being open-minded. If he makes her happy and she wants to try it, why not? 

You know you would be more wary, especially after a heartbreak. You would focus on yourself first, recharge and regain self-love or whatever people do after a break-up. 

Before you can type your reply, another message pops up.

El: because he treats me right and everything's perfect... I'm just scared of that one fact of working together

"well working with friends or family never does any good, the same goes for relationships"

That's a fact. In most cases it's the worst anyone can do. 

"but try it if you feel like that's the right thing"

You're not one of those friends who give false hope. You're honest, try to be without getting too honest which could potentially hurt someone. Elaine is a wonderful woman. You've known her for years and have been best friends just as long. It's unfortunate the majority of your communication is done through messages and occasional video calls. Ever since you moved out of the country, you've been away from everyone. 

However, you knew what you would lose in order to pursue a different life you always wanted.

El: what about you tho? have you found yourself a job yet?

The question you've found unpleasant back home – and you still do. 

"no :("

El: don't worry! you just got there

El: I'm sure you'll find one soon x

Sighing, you wish Elaine's words would come true. Preferably very soon.

You send her a quick thank you with a heart emoji before someone slides onto the opposite seat. Met with a wide grin and crinkled eyes at the ends, your before neutral expression turns into a surprise and happiness. You didn't hear him coming!

"Hobi!" you greet him after not seeing his face for a few days.

He's been your friend for quite some time now. Actually, it's safe to say he's been a huge help ever since you decided to move here. It lasts until now and without his help, you're not sure if you would've ever had the guts to leave the comfort of familiarity of your country.

"Hey," he greets, laughing a little as the air becomes more cheerful. Or maybe it's only you and the fact he's no stranger to you. 

Having prying eyes on you almost all the time is still a little uncomfortable. As if they knew you're a foreigner right out of the bat.

Hoseok chose to meet up at his favorite place. He's a little late, but you don't have the heart to scold him for it. You know it's only your anxiety of having to be here alone, feeling strangers' eyes on you. Luckily, you did the typical trick. Staring into your phone, minding your business and trying to act unbothered. 

"Have you ordered anything yet?"

"Ah, no," you shake your head, "Was waiting for you."

You had to tell the older lady to give you more time since your friend should be arriving anytime soon. 

"Sorry for running late, traffic here is no joke." he apologizes, shrugging his overshirt as he hangs it over the bag of his stool.

"It's fine." you tell him, catching his amused expression which causes you to purse your lips. 

"No scolding?"

"I was about to but I changed my mind."

"Of course you were." he laughs.

Before another word can be uttered and a fit of giggles surround the round table, what you assume is the owner – the same lady that asked you for your order earlier – comes back with the same kind smile. Hoseok says both your orders, already knowing your usual choice since you're here the third time already. Like you said, it's his favorite place to eat. Korean barbecue is definitely worth every penny. 

"I didn't wanna tell you on the phone but–" He giggles when he notices your wary look. "You haven't found a job yet, right?" He makes sure.

For some reason, your cheeks heat up in guilt. Guilt from not being able to find out despite living here for two weeks. Okay, it might not be a long time but the whole process of finding a job is way harder. You've been through something similar back in home. Having to experience this all over again feels very saddening. You would lie if you told you haven't had any expectations. Of course, you know it's not going to be easy but still. You hoped it would be easier.

You're a little fucked up from the situation back home. The months you waited to get a job and then lose it in the span of one month. Wasn't your fault, but it still hurts though. 

Shortly said, you just can't allow yourself to experience that again. 

"No." you mumble, placing your elbow on the table as you prop your chin on your palm. 

"Perfect," he says, met with a raised brow from you. "I have a friend."

"Oh god."

"No, listen to me," he presses. 

Hoseok has a lot of friends. Different types of friends. While you haven't been able to meet most of them (which you're sure is not even possible since he's got a lot of them), you've heard of them. 

"He owns a company. A very prestigious one," 

That has your eyes widening.

"He's been looking for an assistant, told me about it when we went out for a whiskey."

"Since when do you drink whiskey?"

"Not the point," he grits, "Anyway, he just mentioned it very briefly but then an idea sparked when I was home. How did I not think of it sooner? Right, like–"

"Hobi." You motion for him to shorten it and to get to the fucking point. 

"Right," he laughs, "So–you should work for him."

You blink and stare, breathing out a chuckle. "Just like that?"

"Well, no." he frowns a little, "You should probably go to the interview–but honestly, you have nothing to be scared of."

"But assistant? What are the requirements? What about–"

"He's gonna tell you everything. We don't talk about work much and he only briefly mentioned looking for an assistant. But you're great and skillful. What else do you need to be an assistant?"

"I don't think it's that easy, Hobi. Especially if it's some big company like you said."

Hoseok leans back, shrugging. "He's my friend. He's gonna take you in." he promises and waves his hand, sending you a little assurement along with a wide supportive smile. 

You're not sure you're assured at all. But you have nothing to lose. You told Elaine to try it because else she wouldn't know. Even though this is not about a relationship at all, there's some similarity to the situation. 

And you're going to listen to your own advice.

Hoseok wasn't lying when he said about his friend's company. That alone made your stomach shrink with unease and the only thing that calmed you was the reminder of their friendship. Regardless of this successful friend of his and what he said about his business, you expected a decent and nice building. 

Not a freaking tallest and biggest building on a street full of companies. 

Holy shit. 

That's your first reaction you luckily keep to yourself while you stare at the tall building. Oh god. You're ten seconds from running away like a coward but you can't. You simply can't let a stupid stress affect you. This is a great opportunity for you. 

Plus, not to mention the lengths Hoseok went through to get you a chance to have an interview here. He talked to his friend because of you, purely because of that you can't disappoint him as well. 

Staring at the building, it screams of wealth even from its exterior. Is it stupid to say it kind of looks a little intimidating? Sure, your nerves could play a role in this as well. It looks like the entire building is covered in glass, in one you can't see through from the outside. Plus it looks super clean. 

Do they get it cleaned often? You laugh at your thoughts, releasing a breath you've been holding before you finally start walking toward the entrance. 

The only info Hoseok gave you was time and date. He told you there's nothing to worry about and you'll find your way around. Despite the lack of information, he tried to assure you. But walking up the stairs, you mentally curse at your friend. He might've done that because he didn't want you all stressed out, but it has a complete opposite effect.

So you remind yourself of his words of assurement and just go for it. 

The tall and huge door is automatic. Of course it is. It opens as soon as you're close enough, fast enough so you don't have to halt your steps which happens often with automatic doors. 

Scent of freshness and (novelty?) hits you pleasantly as soon as you're inside. It's everything you see in big movies. A lot of space, minimalistic but pretty interior. Everything is modern and even people working here are dressed elegantly, in dark blue color that is matched with white. 

"Miss? Where are you going?"

Almost jumping at the sudden presence beside you, you see a bulky man with a security tag attached to his elegant shirt. Even security has elegant attire? Holy fuck, Hoseok, where did you send me?

You're impressed, almost too impressed but that only sparks your stress even more. 

Especially when you see the man patiently waiting for your response. 

"Umm," Great. "I've got a job interview here?"

He scans you as if he's searching for any hints of lying. What is this? A fucking pentagon? 

"They'll give you directions at the reception desk. Please, continue past the detector." he says professionally, pointing at the detector system you've only seen at airports.

"Thank you." You try to send him a polite smile, your legs suddenly feeling a little wobbly in those heels. 

You chose an elegant outfit, a nice soft pink set with a touch of a few decent silver accessories. It's not too much but it screams of elegance which suits their theme. You paid extra attention to your make-up and hair, putting all your effort and not only because it distracted you today. 

The reception desk is at the very end, not hard to miss as a huge logo of the company is lit up and attached to the marble wall. There is a young woman aware of your presence immediately, welcoming you there before asking what you are looking for. If they're surprised to see you here, they don't show it as much. 

After explaining you're here for the job interview, she asks for your name and after she checks your information, she gives you directions to get there. There are a lot of employers, busy doing their job as some of them wait for an elevator. There are three of them! 

Other than that, nobody really pays you any attention as a silent chatter involving business resounds inside the elevator. Some of them get out sooner, some of them wait until it's their turn.

Number twelve lits up as a robotic voice informs you of the floor you situate. You get out, not quite sure where else to go as you look left and right. A little confused, the young receptionist hasn't offered any further information beside getting out on floor twelve. That's until you see a group of young females gathered on the left side of the building. Getting a feeling this is it, you walk toward them.

There is another receptionist desk, a few chairs and leather sofa in the hallway as all of them seem to be waiting. This is it.

"Welcome, miss. Are you here for the interview?" Someone asks, catching your attention as you notice another receptionist with the same attire like the one that greeted you earlier. 

This one has short hair, perfectly straightened and styled.

"Oh, hello. Yes I am." you respond lightly as she nods.

"Please sit down and make yourself comfortable. Can I offer you a glass of water?" she asks after she points toward the group of women that are waiting. 

"No, thank you." you smile, luckily finding yourself a free spot where you can sit down. 

It's interesting to see different types of interested parties. You notice how each of them are women and you wonder if that was a requirement or it's because of something else. 

Either way, they're all dressed perfectly and definitely put their best effort. Again, Hoseok said this is a good and big company, so it makes sense everyone probably wants to work here. It's not like you don't feel like you don't fit it, even though it's stupid and they most likely want this job just as much as you do. However, some of them look confident and determined to even be here. They came prepared. 

You purely judge it by their confidence that oozes out of them, without them having to talk at all. 

And then there's a few of them that look nervous, even though they try their best to hide it and match other's energy. 

As much as there's Hoseok enthusiasm about his friend giving you the job, nothing's sure and the huge queue just proves it.

You definitely feel like you could relate more to the latter. You're a little nervous and everyone's eyes are on the door when it gets open, another woman getting out of there. She greets the receptionist before walking away with confident steps, her heels clacking against the marble floor.

You gulp, curling your toes in your heels.

You sit there and wait. Not going to lie, you think about pulling out your phone and at least entertaining yourself with the device until it's your turn. However, no one seems to be doing that and you definitely don't want to give an impression that you don't want to be here. You can't be sure.

There are eyes everywhere, including cameras that you've noticed are in every corner. They don't miss anything. Every fuck up there possibly could be, they're going to see.

But it does make sense. They need to be protected.

One thing about you is that you don't like waiting. You can be patient but after a while you get bored. You've watched your surroundings for the past forty minutes – what else is there to do? 

Your boredom is bound to end eventually and when your name is called, you spring onto your feet. They must've sent your information to the receptionist on this floor, since she never asked for your name. But that's the least of your worries when you finally walk toward the other room. Too focused on not stumbling and doing something embarrassing, you focus on your steps until you get inside the room where everyone has been walking out of. 

It's huge.

This is no meeting room or room designed for job interviews. This is an office. A huge one with a freaking seating area. Your mouth is agape as you notice a similar design the whole building has. The only difference is the view over the entire city and little coziness this office has. It's slightly more personal without having any personal pictures or anything – at least that's what you've quickly caught onto. 

It's hard to navigate around the room, you're not sure where to go. 

"Are you going to come in or not?"

A deep voice resounds around the corner making your eyes widen and stomach shrink. Embarrassed of being called out at checking this place out and clearly not moving, you clear your throat and reach the corner.

A man. 

He stands behind a desk, eyes focused down as his fingers briefly touch the stack of paper spreaded on the dark oak desk.

Before you can utter a single word, politely greet whoever this man is, he speaks again.

"Are you mute?"

What the–

"No?" you almost scoff, frowning a little which causes him to finally lift his gaze up.

He stares you up and down, scoffing silently under his breath. His dark eyes are one of the first things you notice on him. Even from a distance, you can make out the dominance in them. He's tall and has broad shoulders which are definitely more defined in the white button-up. The black suit hugs his form perfectly, like it's been designed for him.

You're not stupid. This man is important. And young. He's too young to be the CEO. Don't they have someone on their team to do the job interviews anyway? Whoever he is, he's clearly confident and full of himself. Perhaps you're mistaken but well...

He cocks his brow at you, eyes motioning at the two chairs in front of his desk. He's telling you to get there and sit down. 

You listen, despite your eyes attached to his form as he no longer watches you. He sits down, making himself comfortable as he peeks into the papers. Your full name comes out of his mouth, reading it aloud as the question sits in the air for a moment.

"Yes, that's me." you jump in to answer, not wanting to make this any more awkward.

You're still slightly perplexed by the not so pleasant start. Suddenly, you understand why most of the women out there were nervous. 

While you sit down and have him right in front of you just a few feet away, you try not to stare too much. He is young. He could potentially be Hoseok's friend. 

"Have you brought any documents with you? CV? Documents of your skills and diplomas? Anything?"

Gulping, you nod before you pull out your finished CV that Hoseok has helped you with. 

He takes it from you, flipping through the pages as he stays quiet. His face is hard to read. A frown clouds most of his features and he looks stern. Too stern for such a young male.

He briefly glances at you, while you play with your nails out of his eyesight. God. What was that look for? You know you're not overly qualified and you haven't graduated from a prestigious school. Your hope of getting this job is slowly dying down as he remains quiet before he tosses the papers onto his desk.

He leans back, glancing somewhere above your head as he sighs. "Why do you think you're suitable for this position?"

Okay, you got this. Fuck, you hate this question. You need money, clearly.

"You know, most people don't even get a chance to get to the job interview stage. Not people with your CV and education history."

"Pardon?" Your response is immediate. With an edge to your tone.

However, he is unfazed. 

"Why are you here, Miss–" He stops before glancing at the papers again before saying your surname. 

This dude is fucking–

Forget he's the hottest piece of man you've ever seen. You can tell right out of bat he's arrogant, a little too arrogant. You know he probably has different types of people coming into his office, you're aware your education record isn't something mind-blowing... but he can still be polite and not so rude.

And before your attitude can come to the surface, you remind yourself why you're here.

You need this.

This is your chance.

You've been staying in your AirBnB ever since you came here. Since you have no job yet, you can't exactly rent any place. So you're paying for the apartment that's your temporary home with your saved up money. You need to find a job and then a place to live in as soon as possible. 

"My friend told me about this job. He knows the CEO. Maybe you could ask him, he probably knows of me."

He knows the CEO? Really, Y/N? You stupid–It makes you sound as if you're completely relying on your friend knowing the CEO. Which is not entirely true. Still, you chose your words diplomatically and maybe this man could change his attitude since you're coming from – is it an inner circle? – or in the worst case, he's–

"I'm the CEO."

Of course he is. 

Fuck. 

Isn't he too young to be running this place? 

"Oh," you mutter, "Well, Hoseok mentioned you're looking for an assistant and–"

"And you think just because you know my friend you're suitable for this position?"

"No!" you exclaim, maybe too loudly which has you shut your mouth immediately as a frown makes it onto your face. 

Minus the fact he called Hoseok his friend, when he's your friend too, he sounds almost amused and definitely rude. 

"I had people graduating from Harvard coming in here before you."

Congratulations, you mentally snark.

What does he want you to say? 

I'm sorry I wasn't rich and smart enough to graduate from Harvard? 

"All I meant was that Hoseok mentioned you're looking for an assistant and that I should try it," 

You completely miss out the part where Hoseok was entirely confident he's going to give you the job. From the looks of it, he's far from it. 

"I may not have the greatest experience in this field, or I haven't had the luck to have an outstanding education record, but I'm hard-working and I learn fast."

"Hard-working and learning fast is not enough." he informs you.

"What else is there to do to be an assistant?" you ask, your mouth shutting up once again when you see the look he gives you. Wow, he has a very intense glare. "I mean–what does it require?"

"A lot of things. Executive assistant does not only perform administrative tasks, but there's a lot of research and tasks beside it. Not to mention I need someone I can rely on whenever."

"I'm a reliable person."

"Hoseok's word is not enough." he grits through his teeth.

You frown again, starting to get pissed off at his attitude. "I can prove it to you."

"Why should I give you a chance?"

"So I can prove it to you?" you deadpan, his glare dropping as he scoffs.

"You're awful at answering questions." he notes, mumbling under his breath almost as if it's not aimed for your ears.

But you hear him regardless, pressing your lips together as you straighten yourself. 

There's silence that follows. It lasts long, almost too long so you consider walking out of here. His phone vibrates as he reaches toward the device and sighs eventually. 

He puts his phone to his ear, answering with a dry Yes.

He listens for a moment. Frowning as he leans against his chair and looks at the ceiling.

"Yes, she's here."

Hoseok.

He's calling him. 

That has your attention as the young male whose name remains unknown for now glances back at you. With the same stoic expression, of course.

"Ho–"

He sighs, pinches his brow. He's listening, rolling his eyes here and there while you find it amusing. Though you don't dare to smile or even give him some sort of reaction that he might see.

"You owe me." he grits before ending the call. 

He tosses the phone back where it was, not looking pleased at all.

"I'm doing this because Hoseok is my friend."

You stare, ignoring the way your chest clenches with sadness for some reason. Or maybe it's a disappointment and embarrassment. 

"You have five working days to show me your potential. If you mess up, you're out of here."

While your not old self would tell him (very happily) fuck you, you know this is your chance to prove more things and not just to others, but to yourself as well. Even having this company's name in your CV is going to be a major help. 

"Thank you." you tell him instead, standing up as he snatches your documents off his desk and hands it to you.

You snatch it back, offering him a tight smile when he glares at the obvious attitude. 

"Here's the contract. Read it, do not sign it yet. Just an idea of what's awaiting for you." he explains, standing up. 

You feel like nothing can prepare you for what's awaiting for you. 

"I'll make sure you're not going to regret it. I mean it–I know I'm not the perfect candidate to work in your company, but I'll prove to you with my hard work that I could be. And not only because of Hoseok."

He stays silent, simply watching you. Not looking sold at all. 

But you nudge your ego away and accept the challenge this man might be. 

"Thank you again, Mr..."

His jaw clenches. 

"Jeon."

The familiar beeping he has grown used to and is a part of his everyday life, rings around his silent office. It rips his attention off the papers in front of him. With a single click, he accepts the call from the front desk on this floor.

"Mr. Jeon, I'm sorry to disturb you but you've got a visitor." The feminine voice that is somehow a part of his everyday life as well resounds. 

Brows pinching together, he stares at the phone with a slightly irritated look. Everyone knows they should not disturb him when he's in the middle of reviewing potential deals. He likes to stay focused. And even Soyeon's automatic apology did nothing.

"I don't have any visits scheduled." he responds, unimpressed and indeed bothered by the interruption. 

The young woman that has been working for him almost since the very beginning keeps herself composed, not showing how intimidated she is by him. 

"I'm aware, sir. But he's saying he's your friend?"

"My friend?" he deadpans. 

There's only one person who could come unannounced, enough to disturb him from–

"Jung Hoseok?" she asks unsurely.

Of course it's Jung Hoseok. 

No one barely comes here for visits. Everyone – and by that he means everyone that knows him personally or professionally – knows he doesn't appreciate visits. Not before his lunch and not even after. He's here to work. 

A sigh makes it past his lips as he scratches his eyebrow. "Send him in."

Despite the lack of visits he barely gets – just because he doesn't want them – he still made sure people that know him are on the list. In case there is some kind of emergency and for some reason can't be contacted. You never know. He takes precautions. 

Jung Hoseok is one of those people on the list. 

But the difference is no one really abuses that kind of privilege that gets him through security. Basically gives him a free pass around the building. 

"I get it from here, sweetheart. Thank you. He's my friend." He hears from behind the door, a chuckle of disbelief makes it out of his lips before his office door is open.

His receptionist stutters over her words but before she can make a proper sentence, his not by much older friend closes the door with a thud. Arms outstretched and wide grin, he stares at him unimpressed. 

"Surprise!" Hoseok chimes, striding toward his desk as if he owns this place.

Even with his presence here, Hoseok doesn't come here often. In fact, he can't remember when was the last time his friend visited him here. But out of people coming here unannounced, Hoseok makes the most sense. 

It can be seen he's not here often, momentarily ripping his gaze off the frowning and intimidating CEO to admire the spacious office. 

"Indeed," he mutters.

"Oh, come on. At least look like you're happy to see me!"

"Why pretend?" he simply asks, the older pursing his lips as he rolls his eyes. "Is there a reason for your... surprising visit?"

"Of course there is," he confirms, slouching himself in one of the chairs. He sighs in content, a look of surprise at how comfortable that chair is. "Alright, I'm sorry for popping in just like that–but I was around and since you barely answer my calls–"

"I'm busy."

"I know you're, Mr. CEO."

He rolls his eyes at Hoseok.

"So I came to you."

"Why? We saw each other last week."

"I'm gonna ignore that comment," he remarks, causing the younger one to shrug. "Anyway. I thought this would be better to discuss in person."

He sighs, leaning against his chair. "Just spit it out. I'm really busy."

"Okay," he says, propping his ankle against his knee as he shakes his foot. A habit of his friend that he noticed a long time ago. "When we were hanging out, you mentioned something about being in need of an assistant."

"What? You wanna be my assistant?" he jokes, amused by the idea. 

Hoseok rolls his eyes and almost flips him off. But then he remembers his visit here has a purpose. He would rather not risk anything. 

"No, Jungkook. I do not want to be your assistant," he emphasizes, causing his lips to curl into an amused grin. "But I know someone that might wanna."

"Hoseok," Jungkook sighs, "I don't want any of your–whoever that might be–in my company."

"What does that mean?" he gasps.

"Your choice of friends or people you know are... questionable."

"Okay, that's actually very rude!" 

Jungkook shrugs. "It's true."

"How did you know I'm talking about my friend?"

"I didn't, I just called them that to keep it respectful."

"It's not one of my hook-ups!"

"Spit it out. I don't have time for this nonsense." Jungkook sighs, staring at the ceiling. Hoseok is really testing his patience. He's hungry and with a lot of work in front of him.

"My friend moved here recently and has been searching for a job. I thought you could give her a chance, I can totally vouch for her."

Jungkook blinks at the ceiling, staring down at his friend without having to move. "What this friend of yours accomplished?"

Hoseok's eyes widen and he almost stutters. "What do you–"

"Her skills? Education?"

Hoseok is the one who just blinks as Jungkook sits up straight with again, unimpressed look. "I'm not employing just anyone here, Hoseok. This is a successful company for a reason."

"Well–I don't know about any of that but I know she's hard-working and–"

"You don't know and you're here asking me to give her a job?"

"I'm asking you to give her a chance." Hoseok corrects.

"Hoseok, you're my friend–I...I don't hate you–" Hoseok glares at him. "But no."

"Jungkook!" he whines.

"I don't know this person and from the looks of it, you don't know either."

"Just because I don't know her entire resume doesn't mean she's a stranger. Just FYI–" He frowns, "But please. Just give her a chance. I need your help."

Jungkook lifts a brow. 

"You know I never ask you for anything."

That one's true. 

Whatever power Jungkook has in his young age – the age of twenty-eight – Hoseok has never asked him for anything. Let alone use him. He's the most valuable friend he has. Not that he would ever say it out loud. Not in usual situations anyway. Hoseok is aware of that.

"She's been trying to get a job ever since she came here. She lives in–"

"I don't care," he interrupts, scratching his forehead as he tries to soothe the wrinkles there that are caused by frowning. "She probably can't find a job because she's just not... good."

"That's not true," Hoseok quickly jumps to remark. "You know how hard it is to find a job nowadays."

It's silent for a few moments.

"Please."

"Don't." Jungkook stops him, closing his eyes.

"Just give her a chance."

He already curses himself mentally for this. Perhaps he feels a little embarrassed for Hoseok.

"Fine."

He cringes when he hears a loud squeal of excitement.

"Just one interview. That's all I can promise you." he informs him firmly.

"Thank you!" Hoseok sits up straight, his sneakers thumping against the floor. 

"Now go, I've got to work."

He doesn't argue, right on his feet as he can't stop grinning at the annoyed man. 

"Soyeon will give you further information." he mumbles under his breath.

"Great! Well, I would ask anyway."

Of course he would. 

"Don't forget to eat."

"Okay, get out now." Jungkook mumbles quickly, ignoring the teasing smirk from his friend as he strides out of his office confidently.

Hoseok is at your place. If that can be called that.

You're only sure of that because one of the lights stopped working, the bulb burned out. Rather than having to deal with any additional expenses, because you're never too sure and it's better to be safe than sorry, you asked Hoseok if he could come today and change it.

Plus, you need someone to help you with the stress you know your job interview would bring you. And you were goddamn right.

However, that's not the only thing you're bringing with yourself.

Since you gave Hoseok the second card and code to your temporary home, you knew he would be there already. You told him to wait up for you, way before you had the opportunity to meet his friend.

That man can't be anyone's friend. You doubt it.

The moment you get your shoes off and meet Hoseok's sheepish grin, he has no time to react as you reach for one of the cushions and start hitting him repeatedly. He squeals as if his life depends on it, though no real damage is done as your frustration takes over.

"That. Was. Fucking. Awful!" You say with each hit, finally getting the cushion snatched from you as he tosses it back onto the couch behind you.

"What happened?"

Glaring at him, you see it in his eyes. The hidden glints of knowing, even the tiniest tint of apology. 

"Why didn't you tell me he's fucking arrogant and rude?"

His cheeks heaten up as he sheepishly rubs the back of his neck. "He can be rough around the edges, but he's not that bad."

"No!" you yell, "He's even worse!"

"Okay, let's sit down and talk." he tries, giggling nervously as he leads you to sit down.

You do, huffing out as you cross your arms over your chest. The feeling of embarrassment and close to humiliation keeps coming back every time you think about the entire moment you spent in that building. You've never felt more like shit before. He made you question your abilities and skills, judged you by your resume within seconds. He made you feel like you're nothing.

Not mentioning he's not interested in hiring you at all. He made sure to let you know that. 

"Y/N, come on..." Hoseok speaks after a moment, softly and sorry just as he looks.

"Why didn't you tell me? I came there and–" You don't bring yourself to say how hopeful you were when coming there, despite being nervous. "You promised me it's going to be okay." you add way quieter, embarrassed to admit it out loud. 

It sounds childish but Hoseok was the one who sparked hope and confidence in you. He assured you everything is going to work out. Of course you knew it couldn't be all true. There is always a space for failure or something not going according to plan, but this? This is your worst experience in months. Definitely takes the cake for the worst experience here in Seoul. 

"I'm sorry," You hear, his features softening as he squeezes your forearm. "I knew if i told you how he can be, you wouldn't go there. I didn't want you to miss this opportunity."

"What opportunity?" you scoff. 

While you realize he wanted to help, what's the purpose of it if his friend isn't exactly one that wants to help?

"He made me feel stupid."

"No," Hoseok argues, earning a glare from you. He wasn't even there! How can he argue about that? "He's just very selective with his staff."

"Oh, trust me, I figured. I mean, he wasn't exactly secretive about that."

Hoseok nervously laughs and rubs your arms. "But besides that, how did it go?"

"I–" you stop, thinking for a moment. "I don't know if it was me or you, but somehow I convinced him to let me prove myself."

"Y/N, that's amazing!" Hoseok yells excitedly, receiving a pointed look from you.

"I mean... it's worth a shot," you mutter, "But I feel like I'm gonna get fired before stepping in there."

"Listen to me," Hoseok says, scooting closer. Straightening himself, he makes sure you see his persistent features and the seriousness behind them. "You're gonna rock it there. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Jungkook can be difficult and I can't promise he's going to be all sweet, but if you'll do your job well then everything's gonna be fine. Trust yourself."

"Hobi, I trusted myself and coming back from there, I feel like utter shit."

"Come on now..."

"No, you didn't see how he looked at me. He told me people that graduated from Harvard come there looking for a job. Do you get it? Harvard. Or a fucking Yale!"

"Yeah..." he mumbles, "I told you he's successful. So is his company."

"No shit."

Hoseok chuckles, "That doesn't change the fact that you're good. You'll get better."

Nibbling on your bottom lip, you feel panic arising at the thought of going back there. You don't have a choice though. You can't live here for any longer and you need a job desperately. 

"You're the only one that thinks this. And sorry, but that's not enough."

What you mean is that it won't affect his friend's decision in any way. Hoseok is no help at the moment. He got you the job interview which of course has helped, and you will let him know that as soon as your panic fades away a bit. But from now on, it's just you. 

You'll need to prove yourself.

To wipe that arrogant look from Jeon's face.

You were up for a challenge, but this one seems to be the biggest yet. 

Hoseok laughs at your words, knowing very well what you mean. Trying to light up the mood, he pokes your side with his elbow. "I'll beat him up if he's gonna treat you wrong."

"Sorry but from the looks of it, it seems like you're the one who would get his ass beaten."

Snickering at Hoseok's loud gasp – the one you know its purpose is to lighten up the mood once again – you can admit that out loud. The arrogant prick has muscles on him. You could see it from behind that desk alone.

"I'm prepared to take the risks from you." he jokes, teasing you.

"Oh, shut up!"

He laughs loudly, the ringing sound causing your lips to twitch. All the amusement is gone as his face pops up in front of you again. So are you reminded of the negative experience you unfortunately went through not even an hour ago. 

"No offense to your friend, but he's a fucking asshole." you spit, not even thinking of how Hoseok can feel about you cursing at his supposedly friend. You should've been more considerate but rather than being met with offended Hoseok, you hear his laugh again.

"Well, sorry to say this but you need this asshole."

The worst part of it is that he's absolutely right.

You made sure no disaster would happen from the beginning. Like for example, waking up late on your first day of work. Just to be safe, you set up around four alarms to make sure you won't be late.

Besides not eating anything from all the nerves, you've received an encouraging message from Hoseok who puts a lot of faith in you. At least someone does. You certainly stopped the moment you met Mr. Jeon.

Or Jungkook. Like Hoseok calls him.

It feels weird to put a proper name on him. First name, is what you mean. It's weird to even call him by it in your head. There's undeniable respect (or a fear) you have of him. Even by talking to him for a few minutes, it seems like he's going to pop up the moment you call him by his first name in your mind. 

With an empty stomach, minus the glass of water you gulped down before leaving, you get on your way to Jeon Investments Inc. The ride in a cab is full of anxiety and no matter how many times you try to steady your breathing, you feel like you're on the verge of a panic attack. Even the poor driver seems to be concerned as he asks you if you're okay. 

Turns out, after you read the contract once you found the courage, there might be a lot of things you're not prepared for. Minus all the professional terms and conditions you're supposed to comply with, you feel lost. Utterly lost. And fucked.

You've got many questions. Once you ask, you know you will come out as inexperienced and even dumb. Being an assistant is not just taking calls and dealing with emails. That much you understood after reading the ten pages of a very professionally and legally written contract. 

There is so much expected from you and being truthfully honest, you're not sure if you can make it. 

Curiosity got the best of you and after gulping down a whole glass of beer – let's ignore the fact you bought it to yourself even despite your financial state – you of course, googled your boss. Can you even call him that yet? Is he officially your boss? No contract has been signed. Mr. Jeon made sure of it. 

There are many articles about Jeon Jungkook. Most of it is just boring and professional stuff. It contains the same information – and there are not that many to begin with – but from the looks of it, it seems like Mr. Jeon is one lucky fucker. Has been born into a wealthy family and like in the famous books and movies, has inherited the family company. The man is practically swallowed in money.

He's successful. And well known amongst business people. Surely, he's no stranger in this particular circle of people.

But at least this is different from all the books and money. Because even though he's successful and has many official photos from different events, he's no celebrity. His life is purely private and no one digs in it. Which is probably for the best for him. This man is practically mysterious.

You're reminded by your conversation with Hoseok after you calmed down after your breakdown. 

"How did you even meet a guy like him?"

"Jungkook? Ah, I've known him since he was a kid. You could say we're a distant family."

"What?!" You screeched at the thought of it. And you have no idea why. 

How did you find out about it only now?

"Well, my great aunt actually married Jungkook's mom's cousin?" He questioned almost unsurely as he frowned in thought before he nodded. "Yeah. It's a little mixed up and we're not really blood related but yeah."

Thinking about it now, it makes sense. 

Where else would Hoseok meet someone like him? Without a doubt, he must've attended some private college and surely, all types of schools before that. God, he's definitely one of those people that were in a private daycare! You can only assume and you don't want to put any stereotypes on him, but based on what you know about him, he lives a different life than you and most people for sure. 

Who owns millions worth company at the age of––How old is he? 

That's something you forgot to ask Hoseok. 

The cab ride is awfully fast. Which you should be glad for. You're ten minutes earlier which is definitely better than being late. Plus, it will take you some time to get to the top floor. Especially if you'll have to go through the same process with security like before.

You do. 

The security makes you do the same routine like you had to go through when you first got here. It is their job and you fully understand that, though you're a little annoyed when they eye you as if you're carrying a gun underneath all your clothing. After all of that is done and you do have to inform your arrival at the front desk, you're finally allowed to go on the lift. 

You're not even sure if you work at the same floor where Mr. Jeon is, but guess you will find out. Despite your inner nerves and anxiety crawling up your throat, you try to appear confident as if you're not ten seconds from a mental breakdown. 

Your presence is luckily ignored, everyone seems to be on their way to work as most of them exchange greetings. Since you don't know anyone and you're not familiar with any of their faces, you remain silent unless you share eye contact with someone. You have no problem politely greeting anyone. It does put you a little at ease when most employees give you the tiniest tilt of a smile. 

The floor that you're slightly familiar with is less empty than you remember it to be, but there are still a few people walking down the halls. Getting to the front desk, you wait up there when you find it empty. Not trying to get nervous because of it, you keep looking around. You definitely look out of place. No doubt there. 

Someone gets out of the backroom and the female you're already familiar with, gets behind the desk. It doesn't take too long for her to notice you and when her eyes fall upon you, you make sure to greet her and explain why you are here. 

You're not sure if she's informed of your purpose here but she nods regardless.

"Mr. Jeon is not expected to arrive for the next hour. But that doesn't concern you, at least not now. First, we have to give you an attire."

Oh, that's right. 

Everyone has a certain dress code and since you haven't received any clothes, or instruction what to wear, you wore something work appropriate. Something similar you wore to the job interview.

"Come with me." she says with a little smile, motioning you to follow her as she leads you down the hall. 

She stops, pulling out a card from her pocket as she attaches it to the scanner. 

Opening one of the doors that is similar to the next dozen ones you've passed by, you walk inside. It's a small sized room, compared to the big halls and enormous office you were interviewed in. There's nothing special about it, though you wonder what this room is for. Besides a transparent circle shaped glass table and tall sized dressers, there's not much in here. 

Still, the room is designed well and goes with the rest of the company's aesthetic. In the corner you notice a small kitchen cabinet. There is a coffee machine and a table next to the cabinet with two stools. It seems like a breakroom but you're not sure. It seems... small compared to what this company is. 

The drawer being open is heard as the female that is yet to be introduced to you, asks your size. You answer her and watch in awe as she pulls out clothing. 

"Do you prefer pants or a skirt?"

A little taken aback, you look at her and notice her wearing a skirt. Well, you did shave your legs. "Skirt." you respond before thinking it through. 

"You can wear whatever is more comfortable to you. Mr. Jeon isn't too stern about women wearing skirts and it's completely up to us. Of course, you can change it whenever you want. You don't have to wear skirts all the time," she explains as she sets the pile of clothing that matches everyone's attire on the glass table. 

"You can wear your set of clothes too, they don't have to be company's. Some employees prefer wearing this since it saves money. But you're free to buy and wear your own clothes as long as it meets our dress code. Nothing too revealing and in the dark colors, so black or dark blue,"

You try to give attention to every word she says and you desperately let too much information sink in. Her mouth just won't stop.

"The heels you've on are fine. That isn't provided by the company, though we do have some emergency options in the dresser there," She points at one of the dressers. "You buy your own heels, that is something the company gives you money for every two months. It's added as an extra in your paycheck."

Luxury. 

"This room is not an official break room. That's somewhere else, I can take you there," She says when she glances at her watch. "This is mainly just an emergency room when you need to change clothes. It's almost like a storage room. But you can come here and make yourself coffee. I prefer to do that sometimes because it's close to my desk and it's less crowded. No one really comes in here. It's not used as much."

You nod as she glances around.

"The windows are tinted, so no one can see inside. So don't worry about the lack of curtains. You can change your clothes here, it's safe."

"Thank you."

"Very well then. I'll let you get changed. You can put your clothes back in that dresser in the corner and get them back when you clock off."

"Okay, thank you."

And with that, she spins on her heels and walks out of the room. She closes the door after her to give you some privacy. Not wasting any time, you quickly change your clothes and do everything based on what information she told you. The clothes fit and surprisingly, it's very comfortable as well. 

Your hands caress the material of your skirt and without doubt, it's clearly expensive.

Adjusting your hair, you walk out of the room to find her waiting for you. Once she sees you, she wastes zero time and starts leading you elsewhere. You have a lot to catch on.

She briefly starts pointing at the countless doors, explaining what's behind them. As much as you listen to her and try to remember everything she's saying, there's no way you will remember all of it by the time she's done. 

Passing through the glassed big room with a long table and dozens of chairs, she introduces it as one of the meeting rooms. 

"It's the most used one. Big meetings and contracts are signed there." 

There is also a big projector screen on one side of the wall with the greatest view of the city. 

She points to restrooms, not wasting time in going in there as she reminds you there's not much time. 

This girl is like a robot. She says everything fast and there's no hint of doubt or anything. You wonder how long it took her to learn everything. There really is no way someone is able to know all of this in a day. But rather than being met with any sign of empathy, she keeps showing you around and throwing new information on you from every side. 

"As you might have noticed, I work at the front desk on this floor. We will mainly work together, but your job as an assistant is closer to Mr. Jeon. Whatever you will have to deal with and prepare, I will inform you about. It's your job to make sure it runs smoothly."

She says as you follow behind her, trying to match her fast and long strides. 

Oh god, you can't do this. And you're not talking about walking fast in high heels. 

"Now this," she says, close to her desk and across from Mr. Jeon's office, before she opens the door. "is your office."

You both walk inside. Immediately met with the luxurious interior, you stare at the beige and goldish furniture that despite the color, it all seems minimalistic and clean. The entire room smells nice, and is definitely cleaner thoroughly. There's a white desk and behind it is the entire wall of long shelves with binders sorted most likely alphabetically. Even the shelves are backlit with LED lights. Since the entire building is covered in windows, there is an amazing view on your right side as you stand in front of the desk. 

"This will be your workplace. You will handle all calls, emails and everything of that sort here. Of course, you will be required to move around the building, so this place is mostly for you to handle the things where you need some peace and quiet."

"Wow," you manage to say. "This office is beautiful."

There are even nice plants in matching pots that make this place more alive.

"It sure is," she hums, "I don't think you will use it that much though."

You look at her a little confusingly. "Well, it's mainly for those calls and emails. You have tons of other work to do."

You don't get the courage to ask for more information. At least not now when you barely have enough time to blink.

"Follow me."

She leads you further down the hall, knowing every corner like the back of her hand as she greets passing by coworkers automatically. Some of them steal a curious look at you, but their prying eyes are long forgotten when your focus is elsewhere. 

"Saja," The woman calls out, stopping between the huge door frame. 

Across her shoulder, you notice a spacious room with multiple tables and stools around them. This has to be the break room she told you about before. The scent of morning coffee mixed with freshness hits your nose, the freshness that floats in the air through the entire building. 

One of the employees turns around, her gaze falling on her colleague shortly after as she excuses herself and walks up to the two of you. You notice she looks at you for a short period, mainly keeping her focus on the woman in front of you.

"Could you please show–I'm sorry, what was your name again?" she asks, glancing across her shoulder as her apologetic eyes fall down on you.

Ignoring the pinch of embarrassment, your name fills the short silence that is shared between the three of you. 

"You don't mind me calling you by your first name?" she assures.

"No, that's fine." you respond, hoping all of you can be at least friendly with each other. She did call the other woman by her first name. 

"Great," she takes a breath as she turns back facing – was it Saja? "I need you to explain to Y/N what's expected from her, especially today. I showed her around, so I hope–" She glances back at you, "You slightly know your way around."

Saja nods, clearly knowing this beforehand because her reaction is not full of surprise. In fact, there's zero surprise.

"She's your responsibility right now," She reminds her and even though Saja nods, you see her brows slightly raised in a mere annoyance. "Don't forget, Mr. Jeon expects everything to run smoothly."

"Of course." she says.

The woman that has shown you around turns to you, her lips close to a soft smile but her mind seems to be elsewhere. Clearly she's rushing to go back to work, at least you assume that is the reason for her abruptness. When she glances at her watch, it confirms your suspicion. 

"Well, good luck on your first day."

"Thanks–" You stop, giving her a questioning look when you realize you don't know her name. She hasn't introduced herself to you.

Whether the realization hits her at the lack of introduction on her side, she doesn't show it and offers you a simple answer.

"Soyeon."

"Thank you, Soyeon."

"Just listen to Saja here, she will explain the rest to you. And don't stress too much."

That's easier said than done. 

"Any advice?" you ask, chuckling nervously as she gives you a sympathetic look.

"Don't mess up."

Your mouth falling open and a total despair dominating your features, you watch Soyeon wave at you before she scurries away. You swear your heart just dropped and the stress of not being able to do this comes up to you in a bigger intensity. 

Though you seem panicked and not present, you do notice Saja's eyes scanning you from head to toe as she clears her throat. Looking at her, she motions you to join her in the room. Ignoring all eyes on you, you focus on her as she leads you toward the kitchen counter. 

"Mr. Jeon comes at half past eight every morning. Occasionally an hour earlier, so you should always be prepared for that just in case,"

What are you supposed to do? Spread a red carpet for him?

"By the time he comes here, he needs to have his schedule ready for him. You also do that a day prior, sending him his schedule electronically. But you still need to have everything ready the day he comes in, so this means all papers and other details that he needs to check over or have it prepared for him."

You nod along with her explanation as if you've done this before. 

"The assistant before you had that prepared for you, so you don't have to do it today. But it is expected of you to do that tomorrow and from now on,"

"Okay."

"Mr. Jeon doesn't like someone coming inside his office when he's not there. But as his assistant, he prefers all the documents to be on his desk, fully prepared and ready for him, when he gets there. That's where Soyeon comes, she's going to inform you Mr. Jeon entered his office and that's when you bring his morning coffee to him."

Is he a king or a boss?

Mr. Jeon seems like the biggest menace already. 

"Are you listening to me?" she frowns.

"I am, it's just too much information and I'm trying to process it."

You're not met with an ounce of empathy as she scowls at you as if you've done something wrong. That leaves you a little bitter but you don't let it show. You simply just stare at her, a knowing glint in your eyes when you're clearly not scared by her little attitude. What did she expect? Was she I Know It All when it was her first day?

This is insane. 

There's no way anyone that comes to work on their first day knows everything. Not to mention even if that person has experience in this field, every company is different. Every boss is different. Every boss requires something different.

"You better learn fast then. Mr. Jeon doesn't like slackers."

Frowning again, this time you can't fully hide it as you give her a look. Did she call you slacker just because you don't know everything? Which is absolutely fine because Hello, it's your first day here!

She glances at the wall to check the time on a big circled clock that is attached to the wall. Wow, even the clock looks fancy!

Oh shit, she's walking away. Quickly catching up to her, she starts showing you the coffee machine. Automatically, she prepares the cup and barely gives you any time to fully grasp what buttons she's pressing.

"Mr. Jeon should arrive any minute. Soyeon will let you know and you'll bring coffee to him. Along with the papers that are on your desk, I'll show you which ones."

"Won't the coffee turn cold?"

He's not here, he is supposed to arrive. You might not well Mr. Jeon well but he seems like the type to get annoyed when his coffee is cold. And judging by Saja's pause, he most likely is and your guess has been right. 

"If he comes later, you'll just make him another one." 

Mentally shaking your head at the ridiculously over some coffee, she motions for you to grab the cup as she ushers you out of the break room. You try not to spill it, matching her pace as she gets inside your now office in long strides as she opens the door fast and wide. You even passed Soyeon's reception desk but you were rushing to even notice her.

She tosses the stack of documents onto your paper. Ready to walk out, you stop her abruptly by quickly saying; "Thank you!"

She stops, barely giving you a glance across her shoulder as her light hair shines in the natural lightning. She styled it in a neat ponytail that makes her look super professional. 

And with that, she leaves with no words.

She lets the door open, not even closing it behind her as you stare at the door frame where she was standing just seconds ago. Blinking and swallowing down the irritation, you place the steaming hot coffee on your desk. Careful not to spill it over the documents. That would be truly a horror scenario. 

Sighing, you rub your forehead softly, trying not to rub off any make-up you put there. You tuck strands of hair behind your ears, cursing yourself for not putting it up. 

The beeping sound comes from the desk, causing you to jump in surprise as you look around. It's coming from an office phone and you quickly rush to it. You stare at the multiple buttons and touch screen. Logically, you pick up the actual phone and put it to your ear.

Before your mouth opens, Soyeon's voice already reaches your ears.

"Mr. Jeon just entered his office. You have his coffee ready?"

Glancing at the steaming hot coffee, you answer. "Yes."

"Perfect," she sighs, almost in relief. "Oh, not sure if Saja told you but there's an iPad in one of the drawers in your desk. We all have one. That's going to be your best friend from now on."

"Oh, okay, thank you."

In fact, Saja did not tell you about it.

You've got so many questions about the stupid iPad. What's it for? Why do you need to use it? But before you can actually ask anything, Soyeon tells you one last thing before ending the call.

"You better get him the coffee now. Mr. Jeon doesn't like waiting."

Mr. Jeon can go fuck himself. 

Still, you carefully grab the cup of coffee and the documents. Trying to balance it in both of your hands is no joke, but you somehow manage as you rush out of your office. Passing by Soyeon who's on the call, your eyes meet but there's no time for any sort of interaction besides that as you knock at Mr. Jeon's office door. 

"Just get in, he knows it's you." Soyeon whisper yells at you, a hand covering the phone's microphone.

Aren't you supposed to knock? Fuck, you're going to fuck this up so badly.

You can barely open the heavy door, but again, you surprise yourself by managing to do that without any damage done. Being back in this office brings memories but there's no time to dwell on it, not when you have a job to do. 

You see him.

The suit jacket being tossed over the couch that's pressed against the wall, right next to the massive windows. He stands tall, wearing a black button-up with slacks that match his suit jacket. You don't look too much, setting this down onto his desk just as he reaches it and sits behind it. 

When you look at him, you notice the look he gives you.

A look of disbelief that you're really here. He definitely thought you would give up.

But rather than give him that satisfaction – and the fact you need this job – you send him a smile. "Good morning."

You're pleased with yourself. Maybe you caught him off guard by having everything prepared for him. Well, they said he needs these two things from you today and you've managed to do it. That sounds like a success, right? 

"What is this?" he asks, ignoring your greeting like the arrogant prick he is.

He stares at the cup of coffee, annoyance overshadowing his entire features. And you thought he already looked annoyed.

"Your coffee?" you ask dumbly. 

Confused of why he's even asking, you notice his jaw clenching before he looks away to take a deep breath. Breath to regain patience. One he doesn't seem to have. 

"Is this a joke?"

Your eyes widen, a lump creating in your throat as you stare at his cold demeanor. "Pardon?"

"I don't drink macchiato."

How were you supposed to fucking know that? 

"I'm sorry–I didn't–"

You didn't make it. You didn't know.

But he's not interested in your apology. Nor witnessing you being a stuttering mess.

"Black. No sugar." Is all he says through clenched teeth.

Is this a fucking coffee shop?

His eyes are on your hands as you carefully grab the failed coffee. You have a feeling as if he's going to attack you any second and even such a detail like him glaring at your hands seems intimidating.

Sighing, he ignores your presence as he pulls the documents you brought him closer, opening one of them.

With a clenched jaw, you walk out of his office in complete embarrassment and anger. It feels like you're going to cry and you surprise yourself that you already feel this way. This day could not be worse. 

You've managed to already fail and fuck it up, right in front of Mr. Jeon. 

Luckily, Soyeon is not at her desk when you pass by. Finding the right way to a break room, there are less people there than before. Everyone has gone to work.

"What are you doing?" Soyeon suddenly walks in, an iPad in her hands. "Please don't tell me you haven't brought Mr. Jeon his coffee. I saw you walking in there."

Biting the inside of your cheek, you mutter through clenched teeth. "Wasn't the coffee he wanted."

"You got his coffee wrong?" she shrieks as if it's the end of the world.

Preventing yourself from rolling your eyes at the dramatics, you rather explain it. "I wasn't the one who made it. Saja did without telling me what coffee he drinks."

Soyeon stares and you don't know what to think of her look. Does she think you're accusing her that this is her fault? Well, it sort of is but they're colleagues. You don't want to make enemies here. So you nervously chuckle and quickly add;

"She probably got it mixed up."

Soyeon walks closer, helping you to navigate your way with the machine as you silently thank her. 

"She knows Mr. Jeon's coffee preference." Is all she says before she gives you a knowing look, walking away with a sympathetic scrunch of her brows. 

As the coffee pours and the sound of it fills the silence, you stare at the city view. 

She purposely gave you the wrong coffee.

Soyeon never specifically said Saja has set you up. She didn't directly hint at it and perhaps it's just been your rash judgment. Reminded again that this is only your first day here and you don't know anything or anyone, perhaps she made a mistake. That could be the case too. Though you feel bad for thinking the worst, which stems from the fact people are assholes, you focus on doing a good job from now on.

Not that the previous mistake was really your fault. 

You're that kind of person who tries to set the record straight no matter what. So this bothers you even now, but Mr. Jeon definitely doesn't care about any of your explanations. The warning look he gives you when you bring him the right coffee shuts you up immediately. 

Plus, it could all be just a mistake and you wouldn't want to make any accusations over a stupid coffee choice. You haven't graduated from Harvard as Mr. Jeon was so kind to remind you, but you're not dumb. You're not going to make enemies – nor you ever want to. But dealing with not so important things on your first day is not it. Even if your ego and tendency for justice is highly bruised. 

When you're back in your office, you try to make sense of all the papers and documents. There's no one exactly guiding you for it. Turns out the iPad that has been given you shows you Mr. Jeon's schedule. It must've been done by the previous assistant. Everything is neat and in order. You can do that.

You're in the middle of reviewing the device, trying to see how things were previously done so you could do your best, when your phone rings again. You click on the touch screen, staring wide-eyed when it comes to life and Soyeon's voice fills the silence.

"Hey, Mr. Jeon has a meeting at ten. Your presence there is needed."

It's almost embarrassing how your stomach churns at that information – and especially at the thought of it. Being in a meeting full of wealthy men? What are you supposed to do there?

"May I ask why?" you ask – nervously – because you're not sure what you're supposed to do there. 

You've read the contract. First of all, there is too much information for you to remember all of it. Accompanying Mr. Jeon to meetings among other things is one of them, that much you remember. 

"You won't accompany him to all his meetings. This one's big, so you're mostly there to take additional notes and whatever Mr. Jeon tells you."

Is he going to tell you? Because it seems like he expects you to know everything right off the bat. Though you keep that snarky remark to yourself. 

"You just need to be present and actually listen."

A few minutes later, after being navigated by Soyeon to the big meeting room she had shown you earlier, it turns out you were actually right. The room is filled with men wearing suits that scream rich and regardless of their clothing, you can tell they're important. Their age differs, it's a good mixture of young and elders. You do find some comfort when there are two other women there as well. Though, you have no idea what's their purpose or if they're one of the investors, the meeting happens after the official greeting.

They take turns. Setting up their presentations as they continue to speak about either theirs or someone else's business. You're not sure what you're supposed to take notes of. In fact, Mr. Jeon hasn't spoken to you since he successfully ignored your presence here.

He sits at the head of the long table, dark eyes settled on whoever is presenting, listening to them carefully. He has documents settled in front of him, which you soon figure out are the other investors' plans. Whatever they're presenting to him, he has in front of him on paper. You quickly note the nervousness that some men, older than Mr. Jeon for sure, show and truthfully, you don't blame them.

It feels weird to be seated behind the same table as them. You sit on the right side of Mr. Jeon. After a while, he leans back and makes himself more comfortable. Your attention is put on him, noticing he's been playing with a pen, twirling it between his long fingers. Are those rings? You quickly look away, cursing at yourself over and over again. 

Well, it's no secret this arrogant fucker is hot. You haven't had the chance to properly... look at him. The dominance oozes out of him which makes him slightly intimidating. Or maybe it's a mixture of his stern and cold exterior.

You're not a fan of him. That much is clear but none of that is important. You don't need to be one. You just need this job and stupidly said, the money that comes with it. If having to put up with someone full of himself like Mr. Jeon, you will have to endure it. At least until you'll be able to find another job. Having an experience in this company would open many doors for you for sure.

Look at you. 

Here you are thinking of this when no contract has been signed yet. 

A notification pops on your iPad and you stare for a moment before looking around. Are you allowed to look? It's not your personal iPad, it's not like whatever there is is your personal stuff, it must be work related. Before the screen can darken again, you check it. It's a file you open, trying to look as discrete as you can. Everyone's listening to Mr. Choi (if you remember the name in his presentation well), so you quickly take a peek. 

It's a file with everyone's name and the name of their business and presentation. Some of them are marked with a cross and others with a questioning mark. Frowning a little in confusion, you look around. Your breath hitches as soon as you find Mr. Jeon staring at you from your side. 

His stare is cold as ever, his eyes not faltering as you realize. He's the one who has sent you this. You're not sure why you send him a soft nod, silently telling him that you understood.

No reaction comes from him and his attention is directed back to the presenting man.

It continues like this. As the man comes and goes to switch places at the presenting spot and in front of a huge screen, Mr. Jeon slowly sends you his decisions. It's the only communication between you. 

As the meeting continues, you mostly take the notes for yourself as you separate the projects based on Mr. Jeon's previous marks. It's mostly to keep it more neat for you. You're not sure what you're supposed to do with it, but you'll find out from either Soyeon or Mr. Jeon himself. If not, you're just going to have to ask. You're not a fucking mind reader.

All presentations roughly take two hours, you swear your butt has no feeling from all the sitting. Your stomach is empty and it feels like you've lost your butt, it intensifies when you stand up. Mr. Jeon shakes his hand with the others, giving them one last greeting before he walks out of the room. You rush to catch up to him.

Your heels clink beside him as he's aware of your presence. He has to be. Yet he doesn't even spare you a glance as he stops at the elevator and clicks on the button. The elevator door opens immediately, a little surprised how hectic and fast everything seems, you take your place a little behind him.

"I want their presentations sorted out."

Oh my god.

Maybe this day is not going to be so bad after all. 

With a little smugness spreading in your chest, you confidently state; "I've already done that. I'll send it to you."

And then he glances behind him, right back at you as he makes sure you see the lift on his brow. Does he not believe you? Is he impressed? It's so hard to make out what he's thinking. He's definitely a very hard person to be around with. Hoseok deserves a golden medal for putting up with him. 

Irritated by his reaction, with swift taps to your screen, a sound of email being sent fills the elevator.  

You plaster a fake smile at him, making sure he sees it as you softly say. "Already done."

His features harden as he turns around. "I'm staying in for lunch today."

"Okay?" you ask unsurely.

You hear him taking a breath, but you can't see his face since he's not facing you. But he's undoubtedly irritated by your unprofessional response or at all, by your presence. 

"Have you not done any research?" he snarks.

Taken back for a second, you quickly shake yourself out of it. "I have not been informed about your lunch, no."

"Careful, Miss Y/L/N. You're already off to a bad start."

Before you can open your mouth and inform him that the bad start wasn't your fault at all, he doesn't seem to care as he stops you with his palm lifted in the air. His fingers slightly curled as his rings shine.

"This time make sure the coffee is black, or you'll be out of here faster than you can spell coffee."

Opening your mouth at the audacity, luckily for you he turns around right after as the elevator dings and informs you of the floor. He walks out and leaves, leaving you there with an open mouth and anger rising. Before the elevator door can close again, you quickly make it out of there and walk toward your office, hoping your walk doesn't come as aggressive as you feel.

Turns out Mr. Jeon also sends his preference for lunch and it's one of your duties to get it for him. Among all the information Soyeon has been able to give you, one of them is that you either have to get it ordered or get it personally. She explained it when you were on your way to get his freaking black coffee. It's dark just like his personality is.

You might not be an assistant before – you knew getting him things like this would be your responsibility and well, job as well. Mr. Jeon wants this and that. Mr. Jeon prefers it like this. Mr. Jeon doesn't like that.

It hasn't been even a full day of you working, yet you feel like you want to strangle that man. He has power, everything around you, in here, is his. He can afford getting this kind of service and you're paid for it.

Perhaps it's your own irritation that is simply caused by the mentioned man, but you feel more like his slave than an assistant. 

Luckily, he chose Italian for his lunch today and Soyeon helped you in showing his favorite restaurant. How she knows all of that about him is beyond you. Anyway, they could get it delivered just in time, so it's kind of your lucky day. All you have to do is to get downstairs and out of the building to take it. Plus bring it straight to his office, of course. 

"There are a few restaurants that take time to get it delivered, or sometimes they are so busy that they can't get it delivered in Mr. Jeon's scheduled lunch time. That's when you have to get it for him instead."

It's what she told you when she was clicking Mr. Jeon's order.

"There is also a car in the garage that's for this purpose. When you need to run some errands to be exact." 

That freaked you out. 

You're new. Not just here but in this city. You don't know its streets and even though you don't doubt the car has navigation, you're a little stressed about that. But can you show it? No. You don't need anyone doubting you.

Nerves are calmed down when you get your boss his lunch and everything runs smoothly. He gets his pasta and even though he barely acknowledges you, it's a success. 

One of the things you always worried about when coming to a new job is being left out. Being in a new collective is never easy and it can be nerve wrecking for obvious reasons. So when Soyeon suggests you join her for lunch, you relax and happily agree. 

It becomes your chance to meet – as you could say – your colleagues. They're welcoming and curious, asking you how you ended up in the city. For a moment it seems like you're a new attraction and despite all the attention on you, you prefer they engage you in their conversation. Even though you're the main topic of it. 

Saja is there as well. You still don't know what to think of the whole coffee situation, but she seems at ease and not looking as if she was aware of her mistake. 

"So, how do you like it here, newbie?" Max, the tallish dark haired guy with sharp eyes and prominent features asks.

"It's her first day." One of the women whose name you can't remember points out.

Max gives her a look, "So? She already feels about it somehow, right?"

He looks at you, and so do the rest of them as you're just trying to enjoy your beef broth. "It's been slightly stressful, but it's my first day. So I'm just trying to remember everything."

"Honestly, we all have been through that. First days are never easy." The woman speaks again as Soyeon shrugs while Saja reapplies her lip tint.

"Ah, the pressure to not fuck up is tough, right?" Max complains as if he's the one that's been through the most stressful day. Well, he might have. You never know.

"Max." Soyeon warns him.

"What? We're not in the company." He rolls his eyes which amuses you as Soyeon glares at his audacity to roll his eyes at her. 

"I can't imagine being Mr. Jeon's assistant. The pressure must be a lot." The woman says again, her short hair barely reaching the top of her shoulders as she pouts slightly. 

"What are you talking about? Mr. Jeon is a great boss." Saja says, twisting the lip tint close as she puts it into her purse.

"I never said he's not great," But you can. While she remarks at Saja to correct her, she simply shrugs. "I just mean the pressure is even bigger considering his assistant works with him the most."

"I could do it any day." Saja says confidently.

Your and Max's eyes meet for a brief moment, his lips twitch slightly but he seems to not react much. You're slightly curious about his reaction, though you act like you haven't seen it as you continue enjoying your soup. 

"Good luck to you, really," The woman says, "Have you managed to mess something up?"

You swallow down the broth, straightening yourself as you clear your throat. They all stare at you expectedly, the table quieting down. Oh god. "I, ah, I mean is nothing big, at least I think."

They stare even more and you mentally roll your eyes before muttering under his breath.

"I got him the wrong coffee." 

Soyeon turns her head at you, staring and for a moment you think she's silently scolding you. Not that you care, they can all fuck off. You've had a rough day and it hasn't even ended. While the woman stares at you in empathy, Max goes back to eating. 

"I mean it's not that bad." she adds, voicing her empathy. 

"Was he mad?" Max asks. 

"Well," you hesitate, cocking your head to the side. "He wasn't happy for sure."

"Oh poor you." The woman whines as if you're destined for death.

And that's when you glance at Saja. She stares and that's when you know she realizes. You're silent, not really sure if you want to throw her under the bus. It's also a great opportunity to see how she's going to react. She clearly saw your look. It's a silent communication between you.

She clears her throat, "Oh? Was that the wrong one?" 

"Yeah." you deadpan.

"Sorry about that." Is all she says as the conversation drifts to a different topic. You enjoy your meal, finally getting some food into your empty stomach. 

After you're back from lunch break, you get back into sinking as much information as you can on your own. Which means – exploring the new device that has been given to you, along with basic information about Mr. Jeon's meetings, schedule and even the emails he has sent. For a certain time being, you feel utterly lost. Not that's not any news.

You try to not let yourself lose in the craziness and hecticness this company seems to be holding. Everyone seems to work automatically, not mentioning they're synchronized like the greatest machine there could exist. Except, they're all human and perhaps they forget you're one too. Or maybe they just expect you to know everything and jump into this work. Is it possible?

Between the chunks of time you seem to have, you doubt yourself and your abilities. It's not the actual work you doubt. It's the fact that everyone and everything seems to run smoothly and fast, while you're left in your own chaos in the tallest and biggest building on this street. 

Though, you're not as useless as your doubts and anxiety might've made you feel. You get a hang of Mr. Jeon's schedule and work plan. At least most of it. 

This man is busy. Not the usual busy. 

He has meetings every day. It doesn't matter whether they're long or short, it takes most of his time. There is a bunch of material and stuff that needs to be prepared for him – every day – and he has to get through it all. 

No wonder the man is so bitter.

With so much work on his shoulders, you would fuck the money and end this business.

Perhaps, that's why you're not the millionaire here. 

Chuckling at your ridiculous thoughts, you're in the middle of checking the mailbox when the phone rings. Recognizing the four code number, you realize it's Soyeon and you already brace yourself for whatever dumb requests might Mr. Jeon has this time. 

"There is Mr. Kang on the line, he wants to schedule a meeting." 

"Okay–" 

Before you can ask her anything quickly, there's a beep sound before a male's voice resounds in the speaker. Greeting him politely, the call runs smoothly as Mr. Kang seems to be very easy going and helps you navigate yourself even without him knowing. 

You check Mr. Jeon's schedule, noticing Mr. Kang is already one of his partners and it turns out, Mr. Jeon has invested a lot of money into his entertainment business. As he tells you and requests, your boss' presence is needed and it's not a meeting that could be done directly in the company. That's why you choose the day where his schedule is not as crazy. 

You're not sure if you've scheduled it right but Mr. Kang seems to be pleased either way. The call ends shortly after and you're left in silence. Leaning back in your chair, you sigh in relief.

That wasn't so bad. 

With upcoming calls, there are numbers straight up calling you but thanks to the call with Mr. Kang, you already know what to expect. You schedule a few meetings here and there, making sure you make reminders for Mr. Jeon. Some of them had to be added or pushed forward. You're not sure if you're doing well, but you're going with your intention. You'll soon find out anyway. 

Surprisingly, the rest of the days goes like this and your brain is focused on doing the job, rather than stressing over everything. It keeps you pleasantly busy, or perhaps it's because there's no one that brags in here and pours hundreds of new information on you. 

You barely see your boss. He's mostly locked in his office, preferably not wanting to be disturbed – something you quickly pick on. Or maybe it's your assumption because how else would you know? You've been locked in your office (not literally) and doing (hopefully) your job. 

Though, he asks you to bring him one of the old contracts between one of his partners. You search for it, but luckily the previous assistant kept things neat. Therefore, you haven't spent too long searching for it and probably testing Mr. Jeon's patience. 

When you come into his office, after announcing yourself of course with a gentle knock, he taps into his laptop barely giving you any sort of gaze. You're used to it by now. Even though he seems to be busy, you still mentally roll your eyes at the lack of... respect? Acknowledgement? He surely could be more kind if he wanted to.

As you place the contract onto his desk, informing him of it even though he knows, you spin on your heels to get back to the safety and comfort of your office.

"Wait," he says as if it physically pains him to even talk to you. Or maybe it's just the gruff of his voice and the depth in it. You're surely assuming a lot of things. 

Turning around and trying to keep your facial expression polite, you give him a questioning look. One he finally sees when he finally decides to spare you a glance. 

"I need you to reschedule the meeting with Mr. Kang. I already have something planned there."

Frowning in confusion, you try to think back of his schedule you've seen dozens of times by now. Have you made a mistake? You're sure his day was mostly free, in terms of nothing big scheduled and planned.

Or there's a chance he made a mistake? You did send him his schedule though. He must've approved when he had no objections. Until now. 

"Your schedule was free on that day, sir." you inform him, the tone hesitant as if you already suspect he has made a mistake. You're still wary about it though.

He stops typing, his eyes flickering back to your figure for a split second that has your stomach clenched in discomfort. This is it. You're either getting scolded or fired. The first option seems more pleasant. 

"I've got a private schedule." he remarks with the same stoic expression you've seen a handful of times. Does this man have any emotions? Because you're seriously doubting it. 

Oh well. You couldn't have known he has a private schedule. Shouldn't you know about these kinds of things? 

"Oh, sorry. I will reschedule the meeting right away." you say, swallowing down your pride and the need to voice your thoughts. 

Of course, you know you can't speak freely because this is your freaking boss. He's cold and demands professionalism. It wouldn't be right of you to tell him that you didn't in fact know about his private schedule. Because there is no way you would know. 

And perhaps there might be a little luck in all of this. Maybe he clearly sees the distress on your face as he rolls his shoulders before opening his mouth.

"I wanted to add it and send it to you after reviewing my schedule." he informs.

You both stare at each other for a moment, while you're processing the fact he just indirectly told you it's not your fault. He knows you wouldn't know.

"Just make sure the meeting is rescheduled," he mutters, eyes focused on the screen of his laptop again. "You may leave."

Thank you, your Highness.

You leave for real this time. With a tiny feeling of accomplishment in your heart.

Mr. Kang – or what you assume his assistant to be exact – has shown no problem in rescheduling the meeting. You were slightly worried he wouldn't be pleased but after his assistant checked with him, he didn't seem to mind at all.

The sun is setting down and the view from your office is worth every second. You even steal a quick photo of it before you return back to work. 

This room is quite isolated but even the little sounds you could've heard throughout the day, just the ones that let you know this place is active and busy, have subtly faded away. The company is less hectic and everyone's probably on their way home. You won't lie, you've checked time and according to a contract that was given to you, you should've clocked off already.

But – you had a few emails to sort out along with your own personal research of Mr. Jeon's working ethic and schedule. You understand things more now, you studying and trying to get a hang of it certainly helped. 

You're not a coffee drinker but you've made yourself one after stealing five minutes, to get yourself one in the break room. The cup is now empty, sitting on your desk as you've left the door ajar. You have one more email to read before you pack it up. Even Soyeon is not at her desk and you assume she already left home. 

You're in the middle of staring into the screen, your eyes slightly aching as your door is suddenly pushed open. The sound is loud enough to catch your attention, even if it wasn't for your peripheral vision. 

You stare wide-eyed at Mr. Jeon, glancing around as if he's checking to see the room intact. Once he finds nothing suspicious or worth his attention, his gaze falls down on you. 

"What are you doing here?"

Somehow that question is invading, yet it's simple and said with a cold tone.

Opening your mouth, you try to find the right words as he glances at the surely expensive watch hugging his wrist. Not mentioning it all matches with his dark suit. 

"You were supposed to leave an hour ago."

"I wasn't sure–"

"You didn't read the contract?" he cuts you off, frowning. "It clearly states how long your usual working days are."

In fact, you read it. Along with the information that there is something called a basic shift and additional schedule. It consists of special events, occasions when you're needed outside of the company and your usual working time. So far, nobody has really talked about it yet and it's something you need to know about more.

"I wasn't sure–" you continue, louder or at least loud enough to catch his attention and let him know he interrupted you. The way his face twists into irritation is not something you should play with. 

But His Highness is probably not aware that interrupting is considered as impolite.

"--I could leave just like that since it's my first day. Actually, I was planning to finish an email before leaving."

"You're better here when you're well rested each day. I don't need an employee who works overtime because they can't finish their work on time."

The jab is there, loud and clear, one you should've been prepared for. Of course he's going to give you an attitude about this. 

"Didn't Miss Kim tell you when you're supposed to finish?"

You have no idea who Miss Kim is, it's either Saja or Soyeon. But one thing you know, none of them let you know nothing. 

"In fact, no she didn't." you inform him with a pointed look, watching him narrow his eyes at you. 

Whatever he's thinking, he keeps it to himself. "Pack your things and leave."

He goes to turn around and leave, your panic getting the best of you as you quickly jump to your feet. "And come back tomorrow?"

His steps halt to a complete stop as he glances across his shoulder.

"You said you would give me a chance."

"And I'm keeping my word, Miss Y/L/N."

Pressing your lips together, your fingers leaning against your desk as you try to prevent them from shaking. 

"I want all the documents on my desk before eight tomorrow. And don't mess up my coffee."

And he's out of the room, leaving you with your mouth open and eyes widened. You slowly blink, realizing hitting you slowly and surely as your lips stretch into a wide smile.

You're expected here tomorrow. He didn't fire you. 

Yet.

Your legs and walk flow in a confidence you were definitely lacking the day before. Even though this job seems like something where you don't know what to expect every day, you're more content with yourself by your yesterday's performance rather than disappointed and upset about it. 

Though, there is still a slight fear of what's awaiting for you creeping around the corner. But you don't let it ruin your morning. Now when the sun starts to peek in, the morning's fresh air naturally lifts your mood.

Maybe it's not just the fear that could potentially make you anxious. You also have a huge respect for this job. Not only because you need it, but you also want to do your best. While you truly admit you wouldn't be able to work there without Hoseok's help, you'll try to prove you deserve to have a place there.

Mr. Jeon would never even let you enter the building if Hoseok wouldn't persuade him to give you a chance. Figuratively speaking. Mr. Jeon isn't probably the person that deals with employing people from the start. They have to go through different check-ups and rounds until they get a chance to see the boss himself. His word is final though. You don't doubt he's included in all those decisions, but you can't imagine him dealing with every single interested party when it comes to new job positions. 

You truly appreciate Hoseok's help. But you can't help but feel slightly embarrassed that he had to put effort in persuading his friend. You still have Mr. Jeon's face right in front of you. That one look that reminds you why you're there in the first place. 

Your ego has to go. At least you have to push it to a certain level, so you won't get too discouraged. Again, you need this job and the money it offers. This is the only reason why you're walking inside the building, blending in with people you would never truly blend in. At least you don't believe that. 

You're wearing the clothes Soyeon gave you. It's safe to say it's one of the reasons why you look like you're one of them. Well, you are for now. You can only hope you will when you hopefully sign the contract. 

A card is given you at the reception, the kind woman informing you of its use as you simply just have to scan for entry. Not literally. It's just to log in your information to the database of when you're arriving and leaving. Everyone has one.

Glad for this new information, you scan the card in a nearby scanner before waiting for the elevator. You put it into the small and very inconspicuous pocket in your skirt. One thing you've got to say about the attire, is that it makes you confident. You already feel successful while wearing it, which is ridiculous and definitely sounds like it, but it feels like an honor to represent this company. Even on your way here, you noticed a few interested gazes aimed at you.

The material feels expensive, almost forbidden to wear in fear you would stain it somehow. Coming inside here again, you're a newbie regardless of how you feel outside of this tall and massive building. 

As you come up to your floor, greeting who you could call some of your colleagues (despite there's no way you'll get familiar with all of them) Soyeon is not present at her front desk but you're guessing she must be somewhere around. Who you do find and spot coming out one of the rooms is Max. You halt a little, surprised by his sudden presence as he seems equally perplexed to see you. But the look is quickly wiped away as he shoots you a wide and friendly smile. 

"Y/N, so you didn't give up." He tries to joke, clearly hinting at the fact that yes, you're still here. Even though you're not sure why he would think you wouldn't. God knows what they think of you or what information they have about you.

Unless Mr. Jeon is keen to gossip and open with his employees, there shouldn't be too much stuff that could reach their ears. 

"No, not yet." You settle on a faint grin, keeping the joke afloat.

"I do like you, so I really hope you stick around."

"Oh, was that a compliment?" you laugh. He definitely knows how to make someone nervous.

He opens his mouth, a grin still attached to his lips but before he could make you even more assured than he already is (which is a total sarcasm on your part), someone comes out of the break room, interrupting the moment.

"Are you done flirting, Maximilian?" Saja, wearing the same attire as you, hair in a perfect sleek low bun, doesn't bother to show a hint of smile. "Our policy says there are no workplace relationships allowed." She reminds him, almost annoyingly which leaves you totally dumbfounded. 

Glancing at Max, he seems just as dumbfounded because first of all, where's the flirting? Sure, Max is a little on the flirty side but you assume that's a part of his personality. Who knows, but still, such a bold assumption is not exactly appropriate. 

But Max doesn't falter, he doesn't look embarrassed but the way he looks to his side where Saja's standing, he looks her up and down, almost in a bitter way. 

"Is there a reason why you interrupted our flirting?" he asks instead, causing you to almost choke on your spit as you clear your throat and fail to hide the awkwardness you're currently and undoubtedly feeling. 

She chuckles, not buying his attitude. "I need her to show her stuff. So please, take it somewhere else and preferably to someone else. But make sure Mr. Jeon doesn't know about it."

"You and your threats."

"The company's policy. Not threats." She corrects.

Are you interrupting something?

Max turns to you, rolling his eyes. "You know, friendliness is not against our policy."

"Explain it to Mr. Jeon, once he's the one who catches you."

"Catches doing exactly what? Talking to my new colleague? Please." 

You purse your lips, shifting weight on your feet. This is really awkward.

"Max," she says his name, laughing almost bitterly as she shakes his head as if to call out his bullshit. He doesn't move though, lifting his brow. "I'm just informing you."

"I don't need you informing me. I'm very much familiar with our policy. Now, Y/N, it was lovely talking to you and I do hope we will talk in the future, preferably not getting caught by someone." he teases, grinning at you as your cheeks heathen up as you send him an unsure grin. 

You murmur something in return, not even sure what comes out of your mouth as he shoots you one last smile before walking away. Saja stands there, raising her brow at you almost as if it's your turn to get scolded. 

"I wasn't lying. Mr. Jeon does not allow any relationships. I'm sure it's in your contract."

The one that isn't signed yet though. You keep that to yourself. 

First of all, you didn't even think about Max that way. Not unless she made it seem as if it's something bigger than it really was. Not aware of her true intentions, you don't even try thinking of it because it's pointless. 

"Is there a reason why?" you ask instead, her brows shooting up in a silent surprise at your question instead.

"I'm pretty sure it's because it could potentially ruin the progress of working. Just measure to avoid any misunderstandings and problems. Most companies do that. At least the ones I worked at did."

"Max seems like a friendly person. I don't think he was flirting."

A little annoyed as she seems to look, perhaps it's the still ongoing topic that annoys her, she stays silent for a moment. You don't give her the time to respond though. 

"It was nothing but a friendly conversation. Nothing to suspect or worry about."

The look on her face is worth your slightly passive-aggressive reaction as a grin threatens to make it to your lips. "Well, I advise you that."

"Thank you, I will take it to heart." you promise her, almost cackling when her expression drops and it turns more serious.

"Let's go to the office. I need to explain a few things before Mr. Jeon arrives." she grits through her teeth.

Despite the not so friendly exchange, a smile remains on your face as you slowly follow her to your office with slightly more confident steps.

During the ten minutes that are spent in the pleasant interior of your office, you deduce Saja is more informative and helpful than she was yesterday. Regardless of how quickly words spill out of her mouth to the point you think you might get a whiplash (again), you're trying to sink every information she has for you. She even made a few notes, point by point, that consists of basic information you'll need. 

You appreciate the work she put into that, or that she took the time to write all of that, regardless of its length. With that being said and sent to your mail, she leaves you to do your job since the time is ticking and Mr. Jeon will be here any minute. 

As explained and not forgotten, you make sure the cup in your hold and its content is the right one. Despite your boss' words of how he wants his employees well rested (though you're not sure if that's possible due to the amount of stress and work), you have barely slept well. Though, you hope the make-up you're wearing hides that tiny secret well. 

You don't dare to judge. Everyone here seems to be working well, perhaps they don't experience as much stress like you do – obviously. 

Coming inside his office after announcing yourself of course, you're not shocked at the lack of eye-contact and attention as you settle the cup down.

"I hope it's the right one." he says, something in his tone that you can't quite point out. Did he just make a joke? As many things here and in life generally, you don't dare to say and be sure. You don't know him and his personality is something you're still trying to figure out.

It's that moment and a few seconds of lingering silence that eventually causes him to pry his dark brown eyes off the laptop's screen, setting those distant and dark orbs on you. It's the clear quirk of his brow that brings you back into reality.

"Of course it is." It's funny how quickly you say it, with urgency as if you didn't get it wrong only yesterday. To your defense, it wasn't exactly your fault. Actually, it wasn't your fault at all. Saja made it and you just brought it to him. 

It still bothers you that you're the one who messed up in his eyes. Or in anyone's for that matter. He watches you for a second, enough to make you nervous while you're inches from his desk and well, him. He does radiate dominance and coldness. It doesn't make sense that Hoseok is friends with him. He's a complete opposite.

As much as you're curious about the man in front of you, you prefer not to ask your friend too much about him and his life. One, it shouldn't interest you enough to want to know it. Second, Hoseok is a very good friend with him and not only that, they're some distant family. While Hoseok is your friend and the closest person you have in the country, he's not your best friend that could potentially spill you anything. 

In other words, it wouldn't be exactly wise to try and pry. After all, your curiosity should go aside because this is your job. You shouldn't play with fire or dig into this and him. You won't risk that. 

"I had your documents and papers prepared before you came in,"

Stupid. You inform him of something he clearly saw when he came in here. 

"I hope everything's right."

"You hope?" he questions his brow in the same position that has been questioning you. 

He leans back against his chair, elbow resting on the arm handle as he brushes his fingers over his chest. He doesn't pry his eyes off you.

"You really want this job, right?"

You open your mouth and give him a look, once you can't even define yourself but obviously almost spills out of it. He notices it, he surely does because the little twitch the corner of his mouth makes is enough proof of it.

"I want to do my job right, sir. I'm still new and I'm learning." you answer him, diplomatically with a hint of honesty and roughness that definitely doesn't go unnoticed by him. 

Whatever argument he would have prepared, he decides to keep his mouth shut and just watches you with almost piqued interest. Or he's deep in thoughts, like you said, you can't quite figure him out.

"Learning is fine, but I hope you're aware you have to be quick at it. We don't have time for any slackers or slowness."

Well, damn. What encouraging words. 

"I'm not a slacker and I hope I'm not slow either."

If he knew you even dreamed about this job, your first day haunting you even in your sleep.

"You do a lot of hoping."

"Sometimes it's the only thing we can do."

He stays silent for a moment, "I could argue with that," he protests but he says it with no remorse or anything negative. Just merrily points out. "I could also give you a few encouraging words, but I'm not sure what help would that make."

It would certainly make you not want to shit your pants in his presence, but you don't tell him that. 

You're not here long enough, but you can't imagine him being all sweet and encouraging. It just doesn't suit him at the moment. You're aware of your judgment and assuming, so you stop and straighten yourself more.

"I need to see results, not give out hope."

That's a bit cold, but you offer him a short nod.

"Got it."

"Alright," he sighs, straightening himself that he's no longer in his leaned back comfortable position. "I need you to get a car ready for today's lunch. I have a meeting at that time and you're coming with me."

You nod, hiding your shock and maybe fear? Who knows. 

"Any restaurant preference?"

"Italian. The one in the Four Seasons Hotel. Call them and reserve us a table. Just mention the name Jeon and they should confirm it."

"Got it, sir. I'll call them right away."

He nods, scooting closer to his desk, dismissing you with no other words needed. 

Turns out, he has a driver for special occasions. Not sure if lunch with a business partner is a special occasion, but this time you meet Mr. Jeon in an underground garage. Not having the guts to ask if you're late, you keep your mouth shut and the two of you get inside the car. 

You're sure you're not late, you were informed about the specific time when you delivered him the news of the successful reservation. Soyeon, whom you met during the day, has given you some details of how usually these meetings work and how you should prepare. Turns out, you're there to assist Mr. Jeon – schedule any possible future meetings and give him information about his schedule. 

It's understandable that a man with so much work on his shoulders can't remember every single thing, just as much as he can't manage the little details. That's why he has an assistant, that's why you're going. 

The reason for your presence there is no secret to you, and you knew that without Soyeon telling you. Still, you appreciate her trying to help. 

The drive there is spent in silence, a little awkward you would say. One of Mr. Jeon's driver is an older man. Not too old though, maybe old enough to be your father but he seems nice and polite. You can't exactly tell when all you exchanged were greetings before you joined your boss in the backseat.

You also can't say it's the most comfortable ride. You mean... Mr. Jeon is sitting right next to you, even though there's a little space between you – it's still the closest you've been to him so far. 

Man with such distance he seems to radiate, it feels odd to be so close to. He's a stranger, someone who literally has your destiny in the palm of his hands. Big hands at that. 

Something you've noticed before but is clear now as well. You're purely judging the way his phone looks small in his hold. You don't dare to make it visible that you're silently side-eyeing the man. He's not exactly the type to break the awkward silence, but he seems to be too engrossed in his phone to maybe even notice. Or care. 

The silent radio music is the only thing that prevents complete silence. And you find yourself staring from the window, your purse clutched to your side with the needed iPad in it.

It's when a rustling sound comes from the side, catching your attention as you watch Mr. Jeon tucks his phone back into his slacks pocket checking his surroundings out of the window. 

"Mr. Liang owns an agency that represents people who would potentially want business investors to invest in them." Mr. Jeon suddenly says, breaking the silence with his smooth but deep voice.

The moment you both share a look, which is just simply looking into each other's eyes, you almost panic and look away. You hold the stare though, not wanting to get intimidated by the man's eyes or aura. He seems clueless about that, more notes the slight surprise or confusion on your face.

"It's not important information but you can't go there and be completely clueless." he explains, causing you to nod in understatement.

"I thought most business partners come straight to you." Meaning to his company and through their employees, they got to the boss – Mr. Jeon.

You're not ashamed to have a question, a meer curiosity coming to the surface. Mr. Jeon doesn't look bothered, which is a good sign. 

"They do. But most people don't have the resources to do so. We're not a company you can just easily approach. We're talking about millions here, not a few bucks. So owners of agencies like Mr. Liang, they take care of all the important stuff. They take a share from the potential success, that is if I decide to invest in whatever they come up with."

"But they still pay for it, right? They have to be able to allow an agency to represent them."

"Of course. Nothing's for free, Miss Y/L/N," he answers, "If it's a beginner whose business is new, they usually take loans. They still need to pay."

You know how frustrating it feels not to have enough money to be able to go after your dreams. It's a sad reality. People have to take a risk to be able to go after them, most of the time to get into debts. 

It's surely not something Mr. Jeon has ever gone through. You don't judge him. He had the luck to be born into a rich family, which doesn't always have to be positive. You're just comparing the two different worlds. Regardless of that and anything that's obvious, Mr. Jeon was born with a silver spoon in his mouth. 

You wonder if he can even empathize with the struggles these people, or any ordinary mortal is going through. Does he even realize how tough it is for some people? In a way, he's helping them by investing his money into their business but still. It's not for free. You've seen the numbers. He has a good share after that as well. 

After all, he wouldn't invest if it caused him to lose the money. He needs a profit off the things he invests his money into. And from the looks of it, he's doing a fucking amazing job at it. 

You arrive to the Four Seasons Hotel shortly after, Mr. Jeon dismisses his driver's attempt of opening the door for him. It's a little detail but you notice it nevertheless, focusing on yourself instead and trying not to trip in your heels.

Mr. Liang is already inside by the time you get greeted by the lovely staff. Their swift greetings aimed at the man beside you prove he is a regular here. That much was clear to you when he said to mention his name when you were about to make the reservation. 

Just like the most business partners you had a chance to see, Mr. Liang is older than your boss for sure. He's in his mid fifties for sure, but his appearance screams important and business. You're purely judging it by his suit and overall vibe. For his age, Mr. Liang definitely takes good care of himself. 

He's either surprised Mr. Jeon hasn't come alone or because he sees a new face. But judging from the information you've received, you would say it's the second option. You're right because seconds after and after the two men bow at each other, he looks at you. 

"New assistant?" he questions with a smile, outstretching his hand for you to shake.

You politely take it, bowing to him. Mr. Jeon watches the interaction, sitting down as he adjusts his suit. "We'll see."

Is all he says, your frown wanting to come to the surface but you surpass it. It's awkward and perhaps quite embarrassing to hear him saying that in front of a stranger. Mr. Liang seems to be a little taken back, but for whatever reason (or his own sake) he does not ask any further questions. 

They start chit-chatting when menu orders are given to you. You stay quiet, pulling out the iPad from your purse to prepare. Drinks are ordered and you stick to the soda, even though it's nothing like you. It's not like you should care about the bill, one of those two surely pays but still. It's a safe choice. 

"I'll come back to take your meal order." The waiter says, bowing to everyone at the table before he retrieves back.

The man starts picking their food, silently flicking through the menu. "Order something too." 

Mr. Jeon speaks beside you, not lifting up his gaze as he still scans the item in his hands. 

"This should be your lunch break, Miss Y/L/N," he reminds you.

You notice Mr. Liang lifts his eyes to watch you two but his lips stay sealed shut. 

"So order something and eat."

Well, how were you supposed to know that? At least he informed you and spared you the embarrassment of having to spend this meeting with an almost empty stomach. It's a bare minimum but regardless of that, this is still work. You're working during your lunch break. So it is touching that he wants you to eat and not starve.

That would be a really asshole move, considering they're about to have lunch during this.

"Okay." you almost whisper, looking at Mr. Liang as you send him a tiny smile. He reciprocates it and luckily, gives you no attention.

After you order the food, the two business men go straight to work. You assistate, jumping in whenever you're needed and after tasting delicious Italian food, you feel better about the entire meeting. Everything runs smoothly and even though it's hard to detect any positive emotions on Mr. Jeon's face, he seems to be pleased enough with the outcome.

Surely, you can't be a good judge of this, but considering this is your second day properly working in this company, you're proud of yourself because you knew everything. You haven't done anything ridiculously hard, mainly gave information of Mr. Jeon's schedule and did research when he asked you to, but still. You're proud of yourself.

There was not a moment where you were lost and that's a win. Especially in the presence of the boss himself. 

When you get back, Mr. Jeon retrieves back to his office, informing you he doesn't want to be disturbed and all calls should be handled by you or anyone else. You nod at that, bowing at him one last time before you separate your ways. 

"How was it going?" Soyeon asks once she spots you walking by her desk, her eyes sparking with hidden interest and curiosity.

How was it going? You ask yourself. Releasing the breath, a content smile makes it up on your face. "It went actually well."

Soyeon's brows lift up as if she expected something else, though it's quickly wiped away as she gives you a cheerful smile and thumbs up. 

You're ready to walk away but you halt in your steps. "Mr. Jeon does not want to be disturbed." you inform her.

The entire moment is professional, bringing something joyful to the hopeless situation you're in. You're merely informative, making sure Mr. Jeon's orders don't go ignored. Soyeon nods, watching you the entire time you walk to your office.

You sit in your chair, leaning back as you stare at the ceiling, giggling to yourself. The joyful moment doesn't last long though, the phone ringing loudly brings you back to reality and reminds you that nothing is won yet. 

But it's on a good path and that's exactly what you let remind yourself for the rest of the day. 

"Is your boss hot?"

The second day at your work has ended successfully and so far, Mr. Jeon hasn't come to find you and deliver bad news. That's enough to celebrate and perhaps open a bottle of wine to celebrate, but you simply cannot. You can't risk a headache or potential hangover. 

Since living overseas can be lonely and the last thing you want is to bother Hoseok. He has his own job and can't hang out with you whenever you feel like it. Therefore, you didn't consider inviting him over because there's no need to.

And FaceTiming with your older sister is just enough. It's what you used to do most of the time when you were back home. 

She moved out to Spain at the age of twenty-two which is sooner than you. For you, it was difficult to leave home and everyone there. For her, not as much. She has always been more adventurous and braver when it came to stuff like this. That's why it was such a surprise you decided to move here. Well, you did talk about wanting to come here but it was mostly fantasy talk.

She surely didn't take you seriously, knowing you wouldn't just pack your things and leave. However, you've met Hoseok and if it weren't for him, you wouldn't have the guts to leave.

"What? You did say he's young." she elaborates, shrugging at the raised brow you're showing her.

"So he's gotta be hot as well?"

If it were for you, that's exactly how you would describe your boss. Which by the way, seems very inappropriate and you almost get embarrassed for thinking it. It feels weird to be talking about it openly, even if it's your sister. 

She visibly shrugs, propping her chin on her palm. "He's young and successful. It would be a shame if he wasn't hot, just saying."

"He's decent," you hum instead, not giving the pleasure to unknowing Mr. Jeon that yes, he is hot indeed. The fucker knows it anyway for sure. "I'm more concerned about his personality. He's very firm."

You elaborate more, explain her everything from beginning in more details since messages do not give it justice. She's no stranger to your situation. 

"Well, thank god for your friend then," she says after you tell her about the interactions you've experienced with your boss. "And you don't have to work for him forever, right? You just gotta stay there for a while and then you could find something different."

"Whatever that's gonna be, I feel like it's not gonna be anything better."

"Why are you saying that?"

"Because his company is one of the best known in South Korea. He's a millionaire."

"Maybe you could work for another millionaire then." she jokes, earning another glare from you. 

"It's not that simple."

"Hm," she hums, popping a piece of chocolate into her mouth. "Is he like, super famous? I could google him. What was his name?"

You laugh, shaking your head. "He's known but he's private. People tend to put their interest and attention on idols and actors, actresses. Not millionaire heirs."

"You know what you should do?"

"What?" you deadpan, knowing one of her brilliant ideas are about to come out. 

"You should make more friends. You never know. They might help you in the future, in any field."

That's not exactly a bad idea, you know what she means. 

"I'm not gonna make friends just so they could help me when I need them." you point out.

"That's now what I meant," she argues, "Not in that way. But it's not bad to know more people. You gotta understand you don't have your family there, Y/N."

"I know that." you mutter, rubbing your forehead as you make yourself more comfortable in your bed. 

"Just think about it."

"Yeah, yeah." you wave the topic off. "I'm ready to make more friends. But currently, there aren't many opportunities to do so."

"What about your co-workers?"

"Right," You press your lips together. "They're all... I don't know, some of them are very welcoming and obviously, the company is large so I don't know everyone. I don't think it's even possible. But some of them are really serious. I don't know how to explain it."

"Maybe it's a cultural thing?" she questions.

"They're just very skilled in everything and I'm a newbie." You're reminded of Max's words. He calls you a newbie. 

"It will get better, I'm sure."

You're not sure about that, but you nod and end the topic there. You catch up over other stuff, mainly your sister talking about the reconstruction of her and her boyfriend's bathroom. Once a set of yawns keep coming in the midst of your call, you decide to end it there.

Making sure your alarm is set, even though it's automatic by now, it takes you a minute to stare at the ceiling before darkness swallows you whole. 

This time more confident to meet Mr. Jeon's orders and deep eyes that follow you into your dreams.

[neo404]

How about.... Nick Sturniolo as a ballet boy

Ballet boy Nick x reader

The morning was cold, the breeze soft, it was early and the smell of coffee was filling the kitchen, my eyes still adjusting to being awake. I hear my older sister talk on the phone with someone. I sigh, this will be a long day, I hate waking up this early.

“Come on, we are gonna be late.” She says, looking at herself on her phone camera and slicking back some hairs, her black leotard hidden by her pink coat. I smile weakly at her, she really is passionate about this, it makes me happy.

“Going, boss.” I say, pouring the freshly brew coffee on a heat adaptive bottle to keep it warm. A few cars pass by, fewer people walk here and there. The sun is barely rising, the engine of my car roars as I yawn. “Bia, want me to pick you up too?” I take a long sip of the hot coffee and feel a tiny burn sensation on my tongue.

“Yeah, I think some friends wanted to eat us afterwards. Steph is gonna be there, obvi.” I let out a soft groan. “I know, I know. I’ll tell Steph to not embarrass you in front of the cute waiter again.”

“Shut up, Bi.” I start to drive, the soft music of Bias ‘pre ballet’ playlist making me feel like I’m still dreaming, I can hear her taking pictures of herself and I feel the warmness in my heart. She really has come a long way, she has a lot of friends, she is confident and has a loving girlfriend, who loves to embarrass me in front of people I find cute.

I park right outside the petite building in the corner of a street, right besides a coffee shop and adjacent to a small park. Bianka waves goodbye at me and get off the car, I wait of her to enter the building and when she does, I wait for her text.

“Upstairs.” And attached to it is a photo of her smiling to the mirror with Stephanie beside her.

“Tell her I say hi.” I reply. When I put my phone down, I grab my coffee and drink all of it in one long sip. Since it was so early, I had to slow drive to the library for it to open in order for me to start working on my essay. I hear my phone ring as I step out of my car. I pick up and raise the phone to my face. Bias panicked voice hits my ear even with the phone a few centimeters away from it.

“Oh god, oh god.” She speaks. I panic for a slit second too. “I left my pointe shoes in your car.”

“What?” I heard her loud and clear, I just couldn’t believe what she was saying.

“I left them. You have to bring them here, now. Please, the elections for the Black Swan are today and you know how hard I have-“

“I’m on my way, don’t panic. I’ll be fast.” I say as I open the door to my car again.

“Okay, don’t drive too fast.”

“I won’t.”

Thankfully, today seemed to be a slow day for most people because the streets weren’t as cramped as usual. I park, enter the building, and walk upstairs to the salon. I slowly open the door and walk inside, the room is big, filled with mirrors and bars on the walls, people are stretching and adjusting their shoes all around the floor. I see a few girls and guys staring at me, I gulp. I slowly walk to where Bia is.

“Bi.” I call her and she turns around. Hugging me tightly, I pat her back.

“Thanks! Thanks, thanks, thanks. God, I was about to cry.” She let’s go off me, I look around and nervously wave at Steph and her other friends.

“Hi…”

“Take a seat while I put these on, I’ll give you 5 dollars for the inconvenience.” She says as she lures me to a corner where her stuff is. I lean into one of the bars screwed to the walls.

“No needs to.”

“Shush, I want to, plus you can buy yourself more coffee, I swear you are an addict to that thing.” She sits on the floor and starts putting her shoes on. I look around the room, on the other corner, alone, a boy spins and stretches his arms up and to the sides, I see his turn and jump, doing things whose names I don’t remember but I swear I listen to Bia talk about. I become mesmerized by his elegance and figure. It’s like the whole room goes quiet, and it’s only the faint noises of the cars and people passing by, the wind hitting the windows and sliding in throw the curtains and in the middle of that beautiful picture is him, twirling around like no one I have seen. It was all black and white, him being the only color in my mind, until I feel a nudge on my leg. I quickly snap out of my mind. “Who you lookin at?” Bia smiles at me and raises and lowers her brows playfully at me. I quickly turn my face around.

“No one.”

“Come on, tell me. I probably know him.”

“Shhh, I don’t want to have this conversation. I’m leaving.” I stand straight, one foot in front of the other when I feel Bis arms around mine, and her voice screaming. ‘NIIIICK’ in a high-pitched voice. I freeze, all my muscles tensing up. I feel my face getting red and my heart beating faster when the guy I was staring at gives one last graceful spin and turns to look at us, when he sees Bianka he smiles warmly at her and waves to her. Bia makes a motion with her hand, telling him to come closer. “I hate you. I really do. No more free rides to ballet.”

“You don’t, thank me when you guys get married.”

“Won’t happen.”

“You don’t know that.”

“What I do know is that I have a crazy sist-“

“Oh my god, hi Nick.” My back instinctually straightens and I look at this Nick guys eyes, and I become more enamored with his sight when I see they are different shades of blue, I put all the energy and will in my body and soul to not become bright red.

“Hi Bii.” He says, giving her a kiss on the cheek. “Who is this?” he points at me, like I’m not there, and maybe I am not, because if he would have asked me, I would have now said a words due to how nervous I feel.

“Oh, this little guy? He is my amazing brother; he brought my pointe shoes because I forgot them on his car. Can you believe that? anyway, I wanted to introduce you two because he is the one who will come pick us up to go get food.” She says smiling widely. I want to die, little guy? Are you serious, BI? I’m not a toddler.

“Oh, that’s great, I didn’t want to bother Matt today, he seemed pretty tired.” He says to Bi, then he turns to me. “Hi, nice to meet you, I’m Nicolas but you can call me Nick.” He says, every word sliding out of his mouth like he has already predicted that this was going to happen, like he has practiced this, not a stutter, not a slip, never. He was perfect. From his way of dancing to the way he spoke to people, I hated how perfect he seemed. It must not be real; he has to be fake. “You are a guy of few words.”

“Oh, I… yeah, I guess, nice to meet you too.”

I wanted to burry myself on the ground, I wanted to scream and jump out of the window, I wanted to punch him in the face because he can’t be this handsome. I wanted to kiss him, because if he is perfect a all of those things, he must be perfect at that too.

But I was saved by all these random and uncoherent thoughts by the class teacher, who spoke loudly and clear. “Class is about to start, please, all boyfriends and girlfriends and partners out of the room… Mini Bia you too.” I sigh. And then I heard him laugh and I couldn’t hold it anymore, my face went bright red.

“God, why does she call you that?”

“Long story…” I stare at him while he tries to compose himself, he isn’t perfect… but that just makes him prettier.

“You better tell me that story when we eat. I will die if you don’t.” he puts his hand on my arm and squeezes it, a simple friendly gesture that makes my mind go berserk.

“I wasn’t planning on eating with-… yeah, I’ll tell you there.” I smile at him and wave goodbye at everyone in the room. Before I go out, I see Bia smiling at me and putting one of her thumbs up.

I couldn’t get any work done; all I could think of was him. I wanted to talk to him every hour of every day. I wanted to know every single inch of his body and soul, I wanted to know his dreams, hopes, wants, needs, I want everything. I stared at the words on my computer, and the caffeine on my body rushed throw my veins after my 3rd cup of the day. I let out a loud groan of frustration followed by a “SHHH” of someone near me. “I’m sorry.” I loudly whisper back.

I have always been patient, when you have a sister like Bianka you have to be, one of her longest recitals lasted up to 3 hours, without counting the time she spend grabbing her things, getting changed, collecting all the roses and bouquets she received, taking pictures with every single friend and teacher, exchanging instagrams with the new people she met there, going back to the changing room because she forgot something, talking to people, arranging post recital gatherings, deciding where they wanted to eat. The whole deal requires patience, and I have it. But not now, not when I have to wait 4 hours for them to finish training.

But magically I did. Bias text came in, telling me to pick them up. I grabbed my stuff, waved goodbye to the old lady at the counter and went to my car. As soon as the engine roars I start to drive, arriving quickly to the building, I text her back. “Outside.” She reads it but doesn’t reply, I wait for about five or eight minutes. When I ear a little tap on the window. I see Nick bending a bit so his face is at my height, I lower the window.

“Hi, is this mini Bia? The uber app says that’s the name of the driver.” He smiles at me, his hair a bit messy and his clothes changed, more casual and relaxed. I roll my eyes at him but a wide smile is painted across my face.

“That’s me, sir. Come in and I’ll take you to your destination.” He laughs and stands straight; he walks over to the copilots’ side and sits besides me. Bia and her friends open the door and rush inside the car laughing and giggling.

“Sorry for being late, there was a spider in the changing room.”

“What?” I say.

“Just drive.” I do as she tell me, I hear them talk and complain and whine about the roll distribution, but Bia seems happy because she got the roll she wanted, Nick did too. So, I offered to buy them all a coffee after we eat, so they can keep chatting and I have an excuse to try and get closer to Nick.

The restaurant they wanted to go was pretty, string lights all over the roof, lots of plants here and there, calm music paying and a nice sweet smell all over the place. We sat down close to a large window, I sat across Nick, besides Bia. Everyone ordered the food and while we waited, I hear Nick talk.

“So… why mini Bi?” he says looking at me with a smile I gulp.

“Once I went to give Bianka something she forgot at the house to her, and her ballet teacher raised her voice at me, she said ‘Bia, why aren’t you changed yet?’ I just looked at her panicked, then Bia rushed to my side and she was shocked, she says we look identical. So, she started to call me mini Bia when we told her I was actually younger that Bianka.” Nick giggles a bit as I talk.

“You two do look alike.” He says.

“I don’t think that.”

“Really? You literally have the same eye and face shape.”

“Yeah, but some people say we look like twins. I think I am a hotter version of her.” Her friends laugh, Nick doesn’t. His eyes narrow and they go from Bia to me, from me to Bia.

“Speaking of twins. Matt yesterday bought 3 packs of sodas with my card. I want to strangle him.”

“Who’s Matt?” I ask.

“Oh, my brother.”

“His hot brother.” One of Bias friend say.

“Shut up, they look like me.”

“I’m not saying you are not hot.”

“You literally said the hot one, implying only he is hot.” Both of them smile at each other as they play fight. Then, like a bucket of iced cold water, Nick says. “Don’t you think I’m hot?” while looking at me dead in the eyes. I freeze.

“Well… I- I don’t think I should say that because I just meet yo- NOT saying that you are not, just I don’t think it’s appropriate and I-“ he laughs even harder, and if my face was red, not I invented a new color with my cheeks.

“I’m just joking.” He puts on of his hands on top of mine. I gulp and let out a sigh. Once again, I get saved by someone else, the waiter comes in without food, I slide my hands out of the table and grab my pants tightly. God, I’m so red.

“You feel good? you are so red; do you need air?” Bia asks, a cheeky smile on her face. I glare at her.

“No, I’m fine.” I try to play it off.

The food was nice, what wasn’t nice was trying to melt every time Nick laughed or looked at me. we had coffee, we laughed more, I got red over and over again. I left them on a mall, everyone got down but Nick who was ‘grabbing his stuff’. He gave me his phone, the contacts app open and the keyboard composed with numbers filling half of the screen. I look up at him surprised. “Just in case I need a ride.”

“You can tell Matt.” I whisper.

“But I can’t go on dates with him, can I?”

“Oh…. Ohhhhh, shit. Yeah, fuck, sorry. I didn’t mean to curse.” I grab the phone out of his hands and type in my phone number and give it back to him, he smiles and gets down of the car when he closes the door and takes a few steps closer to my sister and the group my phone rings. I pick up.

“I had to confirm.” He says.

“I will never give you the wrong number.”

“You better not. See you around.”

“Yeah, have fun.” I smile at him looking at him throw the window, he waves at me and the all walk inside the mall. I bury myself into the steering wheel, god, thanks Bianka.

Taglist: @freshloveforthefit @shywolfapricotfan @sturnphilia @matty-bear @thenickgirl @stvrniolvsp @paige05 @soursturniolo @miloisdone1 @teenagetrash00 @lovely-calypso @h3arts4harry @malirosee

[madisonstarss]

After Hours (SWITCH!Ryan Howard x SWITCH!Reader SMUT)

warnings: smut, angry sex/make up, reader swears like a sailor, daddy kink, slight degraition, teasing, not proof read

p.s sorry for the kelly hate, i love kelly but it helped move along the story

︶꒦꒷♡꒷꒦︶

The end of the day finally came after a long day of work and most people were heading out. You walk up to Pam's desk as she started getting her stuff together. "I cant believe Toby is making me work late." You let out a groan, "Escpically since Ryan's staying after too. He's been getting on my fucking nerves. Just because were not offical doesn't mean he can flirt with Kelly in front of my fucking face."

Pam offers you a symptheic smile, "Just don't talk to him and he'll come to his senses to apolizge. Im sorry I would love to stay and talk but Jim and I have dinner reservations tonight."

"Thanks Pam, have fun." You give a small smile and walk back to your desk.

~~

You bang your head into your desk. "I can't fucking focus this shit is so boring." You say to no one in particular.

"Well no shit it's boring, its work." Ryan smart mouths as he head over to the printer. You give him a death stare.

"I don't remeber asking for your input."

"What is your deal with me today?" He snaps back, you could feel his glare burning into your back.

"I don't know, why don't you tell me what's your fucking deal with Kelly. I get that shes pretty but she never shuts up and is more annoying than Dwight. I don't get what you fucking see in her." You growl.

He goes silent for a moment.

"Where not dating y/n. I can do what I want." You hear his footsteps coming towards you.

"Fine if that's how you want it that I guess I can stop coming over to your place." You turn around in your chair so your facing him. You stand up and look up at him. You could pracitically see the steam coming from his ears.

"Whatever. Kelly is a lot better in the bedroom."

Oh no he didn't.

That was your final fucking straw. As much as you hated his guts right now, he always turns you the fuck on.

You smash your lips against his. He immetiadly kissed you back. The kiss filled with fire and heat. He quickly broke away though, "Jump." He quickly said. You did as told and he grabbed your thighs and placed you on your desk. He pressed his lips aganist yours again. He bit your lower lip so hard that you let out a gasp. He took this oppurtuinty to sneak his tounge into your mouth, checking out the framillar area. Your hands moved to his chest and quickly unbuttoned his shirt. Your ran your hands along his abs, outlining them.

This wasn't enough. You needed more of him. All of him. You let out a whine agaisnt his lips. "Your so needy." He teases.

"Can you just shut up and fuck me." You complain.

"Be patient." He orders. He pulls your skirt down. "No underwear? You're such a bad girl." He takes your legs and places them on his shoulders. He dove his head into your legs. Butterflies filled your stomacehe as you felt his could wet tounge on you. "

Oh Ryan." You throw you head back in pleasure. You accidently thrust your hips.

"I said patience pumpkin."

You couldn't take it any fucking longer. You pushed his head away from you making him look up at you in confusion. You push him into your chair, making him sit down.

You unbuckle his pants in a haste and pull down his pants along with his boxers. His dick springs up when released, you can already see the pre-cum. You licked it off and slowly take it in your mouth. Ryan seems to lose his patience as well. He shoves your head making you take it all in. You start to gag and start bobbing your head. Ryan lets out groans of pleasure. You gently grind your teeth againist it. You slow down and swirl your tounge at the tip.

You get up and sit on his dick. Slowly moving back and forth. Ryan unbuttons your blouse and throws it on the floor. He starts fondling your breast and gently pinching your nipples. You increase your speed and move faster. Ryan moves one of his hands down to your waist to help guide you and keep you from falling off. His eyes stayed glued to your breasts and they moved with the rest of your body. "Fuck..Daddy." You moan

"Your so hot baby." He takes the hand that was on your breast and moves your hair back. "Please don't stop."

You feel your high coming and grab onto his shoulders for support as you go as fast as your can. "Fuck..Fuck!" You scream as you both reach it and you feel his warm fulids fill inside you. It was your favorite feeling in the world. You come to a full stop and rest your head on is shoulder. He wraps his arms around you and pulls you closer.

"Don't think this will make me stop seeing Kelly." He whispers into your ear."

"Fuck you man whore."

[nadia-zahra]

st5 ramblings plus more

I've been wondering if anyone was talking ab how plausible time travel is for st5, and the first and only post I've seen about it was this really well done post by @endgamebyler. I'm just gonna add on to the crazy-train lol.

The first lines El has in st4 are this:

"Dear Mike, today is day 185. Feels more like ten years. Joyce says time is funny like that. Emotions can make it speed up or slow down. We're all time travelers if you think about it..."

Emotions can make time speed up or slow down

It makes ya wonder if Will's emotions the night he disappeared were so strong that it caused time to completely halt in the Upside Down, and that's why it's stuck on November 6, 1983.

And like if ya really think about it, how the fuck was Will to know he'd been in there for a week? There is no sense of time in the Upside Down, so for all we know he could've thought he'd only been in there for the night. Him thinking he'd only been in there for the night could also explain why time didn't continue moving with the seven days he'd been there.

Plus the st writers' posted this:

It makes a fuck ton of sense for time travel to be involved in st5 if it's supposed to tie Will's disappearance in 1983 and Vecna together. Maybe it'll be able to answer the questions of how tf Will got there in the first place if he didn't use a gate, why tf was Vecna seeking out Will at all, and why was El able to point Will out in the photo when they'd never met.

All of these questions are major plot points that had never been touched on-- maybe with st5 being a combo of st1 and st4 we will finally get some answers.

To rope in the flea and the acrobat for a sec, maybe the way it worked for Will was that he was so fucking scared and desperate for a way out that he accidentally traveled to the Upside Down with unknown powers instead of with a gate.

That's right, I'm tyin in the Will has powers theory cause believe it or not it makes fucking sense for Will to have the power of time control!

To further back up the idea that emotions are tied into Will's Disappearance lore and to Will having powers, EVERYONE who has powers in stranger things uses strong emotions to harness them-- what if Will was just unconsciously using his powers to stop time and escape (aka go into the Upside Down)?

This has already been touched on, but Will having the ability to control time would explain why Henry wanted him so freaking badly. Like the only people Henry didn't want to kill, but instead team up with, were Will and El. El has the power of going into the mind and opening/closing gates, and Will (probably) has the power of time control. If Henry was capable of either getting these two on his side or gaining them for himself, he would be unstoppable.

And think about it-- Vecna only goes after people who are extremely emotional because he thrives off of people's fear and emotions. What if he killed all those poor kids in st4 and in 1979 because they couldn't harness their emotions into powers he deemed valuable like El and Will can?

Furthermore: How did El lose her powers and Vecna gain them?

Well, obviously El was emotionally drained after everything she'd gone through within the last six years (yeah I'm starting with the mf rainbow room massacre) and she had to regain her emotional strength to get her powers back, but before she lost them Henry definitely didn't have the ability to just magically go into people's minds like we see him do in st4. He practically jumped Billy and had to possess him to gain control over his mind, so why tf didn't he have to do that with the other kids?

This is a stretch, but what if Vecna got a lil bit of El's power when that slug thing was in her. Seriously, after she had to manually rip it out from within her body, she lost her powers. That lil peice of Vecna did get squished by Hop, but it was still in there for long enough to cause some serious damage. Enough damage to make El lose her powers and give Vecna a taste atleast.

So to bring this post back to st5 time travel, let's speculate on how it's gonna come into play. They can't just randomly have Dustin or Nancy be like, "Oh no Vecna's back, looks like the only reasonable thing to do is use a wormhole!"-- like no they need an explainable reason why time travel's even involved. Personally, I think it's gonna be with Will needing to go back into the Upside Down and change the past.

Like what if those phone calls Joyce was getting from Will were actually 1986 Will trying to tell Joyce to go to the library or something while in the Upside Down, but he couldn't get in touch? What if he was trying to warn himself and Mike by flickering the lights outside the garage?

Will and Mike have been HEAVILY hinted at being the ones to stop Vecna *cough 20 cough*, but my brain is a lil too fried to add Byler onto this rn.

Point is, time travel is most likely happening it's just a matter of how and when.

[thelaughtercafe]

Ler Hatsuharu, Kyo, and Shigure*

Tea Type: Brown Sugar Boba

Potential Triggers: Suggestive twording mentions, especially in Shigure's, and it has a brief mention in Haru's as well!

Pairing: Hatsuharu/F! Reader, Kyo/F! Reader, Shigure/F! Reader

Length: 1.7k+

Summary: I split up White and Black Hatsuharu here just to give a heads up!

White Hatsuharu:

Ok confession time. Hatsuharu's been a dream Ler of mine since childhood so buckle in.

White Hatsuharu is an asshole.

Love him, but as a Ler? He’s an ass.

That bitch who will pretend he isn’t touching you when you’re falling to pieces.

Tickle you in public discreetly so you jump a foot in the air and look behind your shoulder every 5 seconds only to still manage to catch you by surprise.

Make you squeal, bang your knee on a table at a family dinner, or snort and draw attention to yourself and revel in the blush that fills your cheeks as you scramble to brush off your reaction.

0 shame too omg. You think he won’t do it in public where people can full on see because it’s been teases of exposure before?

Oh sweetie. How naive.

Don’t recommend calling his bluff unless you want to get wrecked right in a public classroom while he apologizes for you “overreacting” and you weakly try to hit him, which does literally nothing.

“You didn’t really think this would work did you? If you wanted me to tickle you more all you had to do was ask, not be a brat.”

He sighs like it’s a big inconvenience as if there’s not a faint smirk tugging at the edges of his lips.

“Guess I’ll have to wreck you more now to keep a desperate brat like you sated a little longer. Now behave before I get annoyed.”

King of cheer up tickles too though. That man will make you laugh with deadpan humor first and then attack later while you’re watching tv and cuddle while he makes you laugh yourself hoarse.

Technique wise he varies. If he wants to startle you he’ll dig in to a place like your hips, sides or ribs but if he wants to draw out the tickling for a long term session he can easily start out slow and methodical and gradually ramp up the heat.

Black Hatsuharu:

Oh you poor lamb. Have fun being fed to the Wolf.

See, White Hatsuharu? He’s a saint compared to when he goes Black.

White Hatsuharu can pace himself, has certain things he doesn’t do so he doesn’t overwhelm you.

Black Hatsuharu uses that against you to make you regret angering White to the point he lost his inhibitions. There’s a reason I made his title “The Punisher” in my notes.

And it definitely has nothing to do with the fact I’ve had a Ler! Haru Lee! Reader Bully fantasy in my head for over a decade what-

So yeah! Black Hatsuharu really only comes out if you either ask for it, verbally or by being intensely bratty.

Or if you provoke another Ler/get tickled by someone else. He’s possessive af and wants to be the only Ler you have, or at least the most memorable.

Therefore, his methods are much meaner than Hatsuharu's. Unlike White Hatsuharu he only Ler’s you in private.

But he’s also much more ruthless.

White Hatsuharu doesn’t use tools or his mouth but Black Hatsuharu uses both liberally so good luck with that.

Will gleefully make you scream yourself hoarse.

Also bondage. And blindfolds. Yup. Sensory deprivation in general.

After all, can’t focus on anything but him when you can’t feel anything but what he’s doing to you right?

Oh yeah, smirks openly the whole time he Ler’s unlike White Hatsuharu's stoic expressions.

He’s also much more vocal, and raunchy as well(if you like twording that way obviously!)

Either way he’ll make fun of you for liking tickling, all while wrecking you to oblivion. Especially if you verbally have asked for him rather than acting up.

“Oh? Were you really so desperate to scream yourself hoarse that you called me?”

He’d snicked coolly as he pins you to the nearest bed or wall.

“You’re being an unusually good girl today. Perhaps my lessons are sinking in at last. …or maybe you’re just that much of a needy ticklish brat.”

Kyo Sohma:

Kyo’s…funny as a Ler.

He likes the control it offers and though he’ll never admit it he also loves the touching more than anything.

A healthy way to show affection that’s not too emotionally draining where he’s in control and can cope with his touch starvation? Of course he adores it.

But he can’t ask for it! That’d be a weakness and Kyo isn’t weak!

Tries to get Yuki and has succeeded one singular time when he went to move him aside and ended up brushing his side.

Yuki left him gasping when Kyo laughed and taunted him and though he still tries now and again Yuki will look at him deadpan, smirk a little and move to attack or wiggle his fingers at him and Kyo is gone before Yuki can so much as take a step towards him.

Kagura teases him about liking it a little too much and that makes him flustered so he tried Hatsuharu.

…He went Black once and he has never tried to Ler Hatsuharu since. He was still confused when he came to, only to find Kyo near tears and trembling from exhaustion.

So his next target was Momiji, and he found rather than forcing it that it came very easily. He had the excuse of the boy annoying him for a cover and Momiji, even if he knew Kyo liked tickling him, never said a word.

Kyo would never admit it but he was grateful.

He’s shyly begun expanding his horizons with the boys in class when he has the nerve to. Little things like poking their sides when they ruffle his hair and such or call him Kyo-Kyo.

When he lers, he tends to act bothered by their weakness. He’ll scoff and act annoyed and tell them he’s “toughening them up” or “helping them get stronger”.

“Can’t believe you’re this ticklish. Tsk. You know what a big handicap this would be in a fight?”

Speaking of; loves to playfight. Will let his tired Lee up, encouraging them to wrestle/spar/try to come at him and then scold them when they don’t have the right form or not enough strength behind their moves before taking them down gently and continuing to wreck.

This is typically the point he can’t hide that giddy schoolboy-like smile he has so try and steal a glance while laughing your head off if you can.

“Hah, wow. That was pitiful. Maybe we’ll just focus on your stamina for now huh? That’s clearly all you can handle at the moment. Let’s see how you do with another 10 minutes of tickling hm?”

Shigure Sohma:

So I dunno too much about Shigure given I’m not fully caught up in canon(I’ve only watched both anime's first seasons since I want to watch the new stuff with friends).

But I do know there’s more to him than meets the eye. He’s got this fascinating darkness inside him that pops out through snide comments that cut someone deep before he covers it.

I believe Hatsuharu referred to it as “being unable to see a wound without rubbing salt in it.”

So, as a person in general and a Ler I peg him as a closet sadist.

To build a little off my prior Fruits Basket headcanons!

In Kyo’s case it’s a more tsundere like affection for exerting control over others, and for Yuki it’s also a touch of closet sadism but he’s much less mature and experienced so he hasn’t grown into it yet or likely even realized he actually is a sadist in some shape or form. This is likely in part due to his trauma and not wanting to be like you-know-who, in any capacity.

Shigure however? Oh, he definitely has had the experience and time and uses it well. He’s explored every facet of himself throughout his years and recognizes his penchant for sadism as an unavoidable part of him.

What does this mean for him as a Ler?

It means his poor Lee is fucked of course. Especially if they know about his darker side. Even if they don’t if it’s been a while since he could let that sadism flag fly and his mask may slip a tad.

Shigure’s mask is cheerful, playful and light.

He’ll make jokes, take pictures or video of you laughing yourself silly or blushing and send it to your friends.

Stupid, fun stuff like that.

Which is why his more cruel side is often such a shock.

But in a dark mood he’s eerily professional.

First off, Shigure is a grown adult at 26, even at the start of the series, and the people his dark side would show for would also be of age.

It’s a big departure from our other babies so I just wanted to clarify.

Let’s just say I wouldn’t be surprised if Shigure had a raging tickle kink.

I’m keeping this sfw but yeah. Something to keep in mind.

In any case, he’s a big anticipation guy. I could definitely see him using blindfolds and silk bondage.

Proceeds to let you stew in anticipation while he works on a new chapter for his novel; maybe has one of those motion activated fans that’ll blow air and listen to you squeal in expectant surprise just for fun.

Once he finally does touch you he may as well not be, initially, his touch is so light. You can barely feel it. He doesn’t truly start till you’re near crying and begging for him to tickle you.

Lives for the intoxicating sense of control and relishes in utilizing it over you. Will absolutely degrade while he lers.

Unlike Hatsuharu; doesn’t make fun of you for liking it we’re way past that if he’s made you beg for it, oh no.

He makes fun of you for begging him for a break, or not to tickle you somewhere.

“Ah, not here you said? But your hips make you squeal so loud for me, and that’s to say nothing of those endearingly pathetic bucks you’re doing in hopes of dislodging me.”

“Come now, a break? It’s only been an hour, my sweet. Surely you’re stronger than that? If not, you have a safe word. Use it if you feel so inclined. Otherwise; keep that pretty mouth of yours shut until I give you permission to do anything but laugh for me. Understood?”

God he’s such an asshole, he’s lucky you love him enough to put up with all his shit honestly.

[jtficprompt]

A Young Outlaw's Guide to Hitching a Ride Home

Prompts for a series of fics I'll likely not get around to ever writing.

Feel free to adopt and adapt, using as little or as much as you like.

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Wonder Woman; Tim Drake; Ferdinand the Kithotaur (title ideas: "Tell an Adult" "Doing what needs to be done")

Batman is on a plane somewhere over the Atlantic. A slow civilian plane, that definitely isn't big enough to fit the BatPlane in the hold.

Which isn't kind of plane Batman takes when he knows Robin is being hunted by the Joker.

Superman looked half dead in the news footage. He was barely walking by the time parasite was arrested.

The Titans seem to be off world. Tim has no idea how to contact the Flash.

That means Wonder Woman. Which means Tim need to get to the Themiscarian Embassy in DC as fast as possible.

(Also featuring: Cooking lessons and discrete child neglect assessment questions with Ferdinand the Kithotaur.)

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Roy Harper (title ideas: "Friends in Low Places" "The Corn Pollen Path" "First Step")

You don't stop shooting up because heroin stops feeling like heroin. You stop shooting up because you find something more important than the next score.

Roy Harper finds that in a seedy bar in eastern Kasnia, when he hears two thugs he recognizes as Joker henchmen talking about "the boss" going bird hunting in Ethopia.

He may be an addict. He may be a has-been. But he was a Titan, and he will be damned if he scrounges for his next score while another Titan falls into that clown's trap.

Even if it kills him. (He tries not to hope too hard that it does).

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Veronica Vreeland; Roxy Rocket (title ideas: "Ronnie & Roxy's Rescue Service" "I'm the Cool Aunt")

"Roxie! Darling! I need a ride! I have to get to Ethopia so I can kill Harley's ex."

Roxie knew Veroinca Vreeland was crazy. She regularly encouraged Harley to kidnap her "for brunch." She dated the Penguin. Voluntarily. Before today, she just didn't know that "crazy" extended to HALO jumps from a rocket plane on a mission to kill the Joker. … Maybe Ozzie has good taste after all.

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Jordan Hill; Barbara Gordon (title ideas: "Someone who's been there before")

"I'm not an idiot, Babs. I've known you and every single member of the Wayne family since we were kids. We don't have time for this. I don't care what you all get up to at night: Jeckko is hunting Jason, and I'll be damned if I let that asshole hurt another kid."

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Garth of Shayaris (title ideas: "Tagging in" "The-Batman's-an-Asshole-Phone-Tree")

"You're telling me that Vic has a program running that goes through the entire internet to sort out if I'm doing 'something weird'."

"I mean, it used to track Dickie-bird. But yeah."

"Because if Dick was doing something weird, it means B was an asshole."

"Obviously. He's still an asshole, right?"

"Yes. And there is a phone tree for this. For when B is an asshole."

"Yes."

"Aren't you supposed to be King of Atlantis right now? Seems like you should have shit to do. Besides following my ass to Ethopia."

"Acting King. And if Arthur can be an asshole and dump all his work on me without asking, I can definitely take a personal day."

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Ra's Al Ghul (title ideas: "Ra's Al Ghul is many things")

"Sir, he has the boy."

"Where is the Detective?"

"He's on his way. But, sir, he won't make it there in time."

"I should never have allied myself with that madman."

Ra's paused and gazed out the window. Talia wondered how may people besides her would recognize regret in her father's face.

"Then I must go in the Detective's stead. Have the hangars ready our fastest plane, then fetch my armor and swords." Her father did not turn from the window as Ubu rushed out to see to his orders. He simply stared out the window until he spoke again.

"Talia. Prepare the pit while I am gone. His father will not thank me for it, but if my folly comes to its worst end I will not deprive my grandson of his brother."

[qyuoza]

Flower Knows (Choi Beomgyu)

“Huh, this is not what I expected when I said I would see you around, but it’s fancy seeing you here”

Genre: Fluff

Pairing: Beomgyu x afab!reader

AU: Flower Shop!au, University!au

Warning(s): None

Synopsis: A cute guy had recently moved into one of the apartments above the flower shop you work at, but who would’ve thought that he was the missing puzzle piece in your seemingly picture-perfect life?

Note(s): This definitely took way longer than I wanted but it was all worth it in the end. I really liked the concept of this fic and hope you guys like it too! I missed writing and hopefully, I can be more consistent in making fics again. I'm sorry for being gone for so long due to writer’s block and other irl responsibilities. ;;

Your life hadn’t always been all that interesting if you were honest, but as someone who didn’t want it to be as mundane and boring, you tried your best to romanticize it to the best of your ability. From your cozy studio apartment that had a beautiful city view, courtesy of saving up like crazy and with the help of your parents, to your easy-going study habits that helped you get by in school. 

Now adding to that list, you also worked at a small flower shop beside your quaint and cozy apartment building. Life couldn’t have been any better for someone like you, the kind of person who appreciates the little things.

“How do you do it?” You hear from behind you. You were too busy spacing out, head tilted and rested against your hand, that you had jumped slightly when one of your coworkers and friends, Kazuha, spoke to you while arranging a bouquet of white roses. The day went pretty slow considering it was a normal Tuesday evening and it started to get dark, so you only had a few customers coming in now and then periodically. Other than that, the shop had been empty for most of the day, the two of you casually lazing around.

“What do you mean?” You ask, confused as to what she is implying. You were slow when it came to these things, at least that’s what you think.

“Your life is so ideal and romanticized, I’m seriously wondering how you do it. I feel like you also have this super secret relationship where you have a sweet and smart boyfriend who’s good at communication. He can also cook and dress well” she laughs.

You chuckle and shake your head in response, you’d doubt you would even find a partner like that in your, almost, picture-perfect life. Everything else you could romanticize, but a relationship? That was out of the question for you. You didn’t believe in it, you thought it just wasn’t meant to be for you and are content with being single.

“I wish Zuha, it’s so hard to find a decent guy these days. I think that’s the only thing I can’t achieve when I’ve been rejected countless times” you laugh awkwardly, trying to brush it off. Kazuha places the bouquet on the counter and goes to grab a ribbon and some newspapers before turning towards you sharply, a confused look on her face.

“Are you serious right now? I’ll go beat them up and conjure up the perfect guy who can love and appreciate you, not like it’ll be hard for you to do that by yourself since you’re already everything anyone could ever want. People’s standards are seriously lower than hell if they’ve rejected someone like you” she huffs while wrapping the flowers neatly. Your face contorts which causes her to mirror your expression.

As the two of you were laughing and bickering amongst yourselves in the shop, you heard the bell ring, indicating that someone had come into the store. Kazuha’s back was leaning against the counter, so you had noticed the customer before she did, and boy was the wind knocked out of you upon seeing his face. Your world stopped short, he looked to be around your age with dark hair and sharp facial features.

“Hi, welcome to La Fleurette! How can we help you today?” You slap on your biggest customer service smile with your voice going up an octave, this causes Kazuha to whip around and also see the new customer and greet him with an awkward quirk on her lips.

“Hello uh— I just moved into a new apartment in this building and I was wondering if you could arrange a small housewarming bouquet? My mother suggested I needed one” he admits shyly. You nod as you start to get to work, gathering a few lilies, forget-me-nots, and white Transvaal daisies to arrange for him.

“These flowers should be a good combination, the white is very easy on the eyes and it gives off a light and pure vibe to make the house a little brighter” You whip up the bouquet quickly and hand it to him before he hands you the money.

“Thank you so much, I’ll see you around then—“ he squinted at your handwritten name tag. “Y/n, pretty name, and pretty handwriting, I’m Beomgyu. I hope to see you more, along with your friend over here” Kazuha waves awkwardly and you reply with a short smile, a bit flustered at his statement.

“Thank you, I’ll see you around as well then Beomgyu, it was lovely meeting you. Take it easy once you settle in” you say sweetly. Beomgyu then walks out of the shop before you see your friend sporting a mischievous grin. 

“What? We always entertain customers nicely, you know that” you whine, but she wouldn’t let up at all. Your friend had finally found some sort of leverage against you, and she wasn’t going to let it go to waste.

“Sure we do customer service all the time, but you two seem like you would have a little something going on” Kazuha teases, nudging you with her elbow.

You groan and walk away from her, he is just a guy that came into the store and happened to compliment you, there was no chance of any feelings blooming from a conversation as small as that.

“Zuha you’re being ridiculous, he is cute but it was nothing other than me being nice and probably him doing the same as well” You retort, and go back to cleaning up.

It was almost time to close up the shop, and you always closed fairly early since it was owned by a sweet older woman whom you and your other four co-workers considered a mother.

"Sure Y/n, keep telling yourself that!" Kazuha laughs from the back, to which you could only sigh in reply. Beomgyu was a customer, it was all customer service, though you also couldn't deny that he wasn’t all that bad looking. It was nice seeing a new face when everyone along your street knew each other.

After finalizing and checking up on everything being in its rightful place, and moving the outside display into the shop, you finally lock up and bid your friend goodbye. Ready for another night full of studying and hopefully achieving your dream as an author, all cooped up in a much better studio apartment, and in a much bigger city.

You walk over to the building just beside the shop and head into the café you frequented and basically became a regular at. You even knew the owner, who was a senior photography major at your university. His name was Kim Seungmin, and the two of you formed a small friendship over the number of times he's seen you at his establishment.

The bell chimes, signaling your arrival and you notice a familiar mop of brown hair from behind the counter making drinks and moving around busily. Seungmin was almost always here working with his friends Jeongin, who was working at the register, and Hyunjin, who was doing his homework in the corner by the looks of it. The café was quite empty, save for four other people including you, so you liked the peacefulness of it all.

“Seungmin! Jeongin!” You smile as you walk towards the register. You were quite happy to see your friends today after a boring day at work, and seeing them immediately brought your mood up quite instantly.

“Y/n! So happy to see you today. The usual? Since you’ve tried everything on the menu at this point” Jeongin chuckles. You nod and roll your eyes jokingly, you’ve tried everything throughout the countless evenings you studied or just chilled there, and it was safe to say you had your favorites and a love-hate relationship with some of the menu items.

“You know me so well innie, and yes! You can just take it where Hyunjin is, I’m gonna go sit with him” you grin, handing over your card to pay. Hearing a huff, you looked in the direction it came from and saw a pouty Seungmin, to which you gave a confused expression back.

“You always pay even though I tell you every time that it’s on the house for my friends, can you at least not do it this once?” Seungmin says. You stifle a laugh and take back your card while giving Jeongin a sheepish smile, but the male only replies with his signature dimpled one.

“Fine, you’re just lucky that I’m feeling tired today to argue” Seungmin does a little victory dance and you chuckle at your friend’s antics. He was always the sweetest thing, so you decided to give in to him at least this once. After all, you deserve a break from working nonstop since the weekend.

You then move over to sit with Hyunjin, who is already looking at you with a grin. It had been quite a while since he’d seen you, so he looked pretty excited upon noticing you walk toward him. The shit-eating grin on his handsome face always meant he had lots of things to talk about. 

“Fancy seeing you here Lee Y/n, how has work been in the flower shop?” Hyunjin immediately speaks up the moment you sit on the chair in front of him.

“Can you not address me like that? Hyunjin, we've been friends for four years stupid, and about the flower shop, work has been pretty slow since it is just that” You sigh for the umpteenth time that day, taking out your iPad from your bag and getting ready to study.

“Any new gossip you have?” The male in front of you chuckles. You suck up your pride and decide to tell him about Beomgyu, who had just moved into the same building where the flower shop was situated. 

“You better not tell a single soul understand? Especially not Kazuha considering that big mouth of yours” you say in a hushed tone. Hyunjin makes a zipping gesture on his lips and you feel a wave of relief wash over you, he’d never rat you out under any circumstances that’s for sure. 

“A new guy moved into one of the apartments in the building next door, he came into the flower shop asking for a bouquet. He’s really cute, but I’m too shy to do anything” you say admittedly, but then grow out of your bashful demeanor after seeing your friend holding in a smile and a laugh.

Truth be told, you were never one to be in love or even have a crush because of how busy your life is, so after hearing about a boy from your own mouth, Hyunjin couldn’t believe it one bit. 

“This guy really did a number on you, because this is one of the first times I’ve ever heard of a boy from you. Except for that time you had a crush on Seung–” you hiss at Hyunjin and throw him a flustered expression. Seungmin was your friend, though you couldn’t deny that you definitely did have a tiny crush on him during the early stages of your friendship. 

“That’s different! I was rejected, you know that” you whisper to him. Your stupid crush truly was the foundation of your friendship to begin with, but you backed off after a year knowing you wouldn’t have a chance with him anyway and ended up getting rejected after he found out through rumors. That’s where it led you to where you are today, a cafe with three of your idiot friends, one of them being a crush that you were over with.

“Tell me about your interaction with this boy. I want to read into what you two might become” Hyunjin snorts, but you know he only wanted to know more about what happened so you tell him. After all, what did you have to lose? It was just a guy you found cute and met for the first time, he only knew your name after all.

“Well, his name is Beomgyu. I don’t even know, to be honest, the interaction was so short but he called my name pretty and said he’d see me around” Hyunjin’s ears perk up at the name and you feel your stomach drop. He beckons Jeongin over as he’s coming in with your order, which indicates that your friend probably knew something about the boy.

Jeongin looks at Hyunjin questionably as he sets your iced caramel macchiato and turkey sandwich on the table, before tucking the tray under his arm, waiting for what the older had to say. Hyunjin clears his throat awkwardly and grins at Jeongin.

“You don’t happen to be friends with a Beomgyu, who just moved into the city, do you?” Your eyes widen in horror as Jeongin nods slowly at Hyunjin’s question.

You were in deep shit, not only were you already talking about a guy you just met, your friends just so happened to know him coincidentally as well.

“Yeah? Why? Did Y/n run into him or something, if I’m not wrong I do know he just moved in next door” You sink into your seat, wanting to crawl into a hole on the spot. There was no escaping the shackles of teasing from your friends as you had always avoided.

“Well, he ran into Y/n today and apparently flirted with her. So what do you have to say about this?” Hyunjin grins like a Cheshire cat, enjoying this entire ordeal way more than you would have liked. 

Jeongin turns to you and adjusts his glasses on the bridge of his nose before laughing softly. “Beomgyu isn’t flirty by the way, so you’re one of the first Y/n” he teases, but you make a swatting motion as you all hear Seungmin call for him in the background.

“I have to go back to the counter but take that as you like. Have fun, he’s in the same major as you too” Jeongin says with a teasing tone and walks behind the counter, meeting up with a pouty Seungmin, who directs him to the line of customers up front that were ready to order.

You turn to Hyunjin again and take a sip of your macchiato, before also pouting at him. “Well, I guess the promise went down the drain. Remind me to never ever tell you any of my secrets ever again” You huff and look down at your notes, sulking and fiddling with your stylus. 

“I’m sorry Y/n, I thought it would’ve been the perfect opportunity since Jeongin is practically his best bud. It’s honestly funny once you see them together” Hyujin leans back and laughs softly, probably recalling a memory that they had shared. You could only give him a tired smile in response and wave him off, you knew he didn't mean any harm.

After an hour had gone by, you decided to take your leave, knowing you still had to feed your cat and get back on track with the next chapter of your book, not forgetting to buy two extra turkey sandwiches before finally going. 

“Bye, guys! I’ll come back tomorrow and stay longer, but you know how grumpy Luna gets” Seungmin gives you his signature puppy smile with a nod, while Jeongin and Hyunjin give you a wave. 

You make your way into the building and make a beeline for the elevator, just wanting to take a nice shower and lounge around in a hoodie with your cat, catching up on Reply 1998.

“I wonder if anyone’s moved into the apartment across from mine, it’s been empty ever since Yeonjun moved out weeks ago” you mutter to yourself, before hearing the elevator ding.

Yeonjun had been one of your first friends whom you frequently saw at the flower shop, he always made periodic visits to buy bouquets for his girlfriend whenever her flowers finally wilted and he recently just moved in with her, so you haven’t seen him around anymore.

“Luna! I’m home, get your fat ass over here” You call for your cat the moment you unlock your apartment door and see your little ragdoll strut to the door, meowing as she brushes against your leg. Bending down to pet her, you then pick her up and carry her to the living room.

“You must’ve been so lonely today, am I right? Don’t worry, I’ll go fix up your food because I love you so much, and then we can just chill on the couch watching Reply 1998” Luna meows at your words and you giggle, nuzzling your nose into her fur. 

Slipping on a hoodie after your shower, you then go over to the living room to see your cat on the couch already. “I swear you seem like you like watching the show more than me” you mutter, to which Luna can only meow at you again, but before you can even turn the TV on, you notice light coming from the apartment beside yours in your peripheral.

“Seems like someone’s moved into where Yeonjun used to be, do you want to greet our new neighbors Luna?” You pick your cat up and wait by the small window across your neighbor’s apartment. 

You see a figure approach and your jaw falls slack, it’s Beomgyu. How sick and twisted did the universe have to be to put your apartments across from each other’s as well? You don't even get another second to react before Beomgyu sees you and gives you a confused look, immediately opening his window as you go to open yours.

“Huh, this is not what I expected when I said I would see you around, but it’s fancy seeing you here” he jokes. You were thankful that you two could speak at a normal volume and not announce your conversation to the entire city, otherwise, this would have been more embarrassing. Just the thought of a noise complaint over a conversation sent a shiver down your spine, you wanted to lay low and be civil with your neighbors.

“I never expected you to live right across from me either. Crazy how the universe works huh?” You joke, and adjust Luna in your lap. Beomgyu chuckles at your words and leaves the window, to which you could only call out his name in confusion as a response. Though, not even a minute later, Beomgyu had a green Amazon parrot perched on his shoulder, leaving you dumbfounded. 

The parrot then moves down Beomgyu’s arm and rests on his forearm. “You’re kidding me, you’re telling me you have a parrot in that apartment of yours? Isn’t he loud since those birds tend to repeat everything they hear?” You ask, staring in wonder. This is the first time you have ever seen a parrot owner, and it’s safe to say you never expected it to be your cute neighbor.

“One, his name is Toto, and two, he is not loud, he is perfectly fine and knows what an inside voice is! Isn’t that right Toto?” The bird bounces and you hold back a wide smile, you had to admit, the bird was just as cute as its owner, only adding to the charm of it all.

“Point taken, sorry. Well, you can see I have a pet of my own, her name is Luna and she’s really lazy with an attitude” Luna swats at your hand and you pout, failing to notice the way Beomgyu’s vision is clouded with attraction towards you.

He already found you admirable and pretty, now to top it all off, you lived in the apartment across from his with your adorable cat named Luna? Beomgyu was practically melting on the inside. 

“Sorry to cut our conversation short Gyu! I have to finish up my book and put this little girl down to watch Reply 1998, you should definitely come over someday. I don’t have many friends that live nearby, so I’d love to have a visitor” you grin, not sure what came of you.

You barely even invited Hyunjin over or Karina, who was your best friend for that matter, so inviting a boy you barely knew over was definitely out of character.

Beomgyu seems to take in your invitation and smiles yet another charming smile that makes your stomach flip. “I’d love to, and as someone who doesn’t have many friends in this city, I really appreciate it. Thanks Y/n, for your time. You really are more interesting than I thought” he replies cheekily. 

“It’s nothing! Think of it as the start of a blooming friendship, and before you point it out, I did not intend the pun” you mentally facepalm, but Beomgyu seemed to be amused at your joke. “You’re genuinely funny, anyways, just open your window if you ever need me. I’ll run over or at least attempt to climb in, but I swear I don’t plan on robbing you” he jokes back. 

“Goodnight Beomgyu, see you tomorrow hopefully,” you say softly and shut your window. Though, you would have never expected the boy to actually take your words seriously, because he had quite literally and unexpectedly appeared in the seat beside your usual spot that you always sit in during your last class of the day.

You set your bag down and sit, taking out your laptop and a notebook, Beomgyu still seems to be blissfully unaware of your presence, so you clear your throat in an attempt to get his attention. The boy turns and his jaw falls open, which you could only laugh at. 

“Wow, I can’t believe the universe constantly finds a way to insert you into my day. That’s crazy” he laughs, ruffling your hair and then fixing it right after. You wished more of your friends did this, and with Beomgyu, it felt like he’d known you your whole life. 

“Do you want to stop by the shop later? I’m the only one working today so I could use some company” you suddenly quip. It was a joke at first, but Beomgyu really did seem to consider it because he gave you a short nod and a grin. 

“What?! I was kidding because I’d feel bad, but you’re seriously keeping me company?” You were appalled, Beomgyu actually wanted to stay in the shop with you? That was new since your friends would absolutely dread being in the shop for more than an hour, though you’ve grown accustomed to being surrounded by flowers half the time. 

“Well, I have nothing better to do, so why not keep you company? We’re friends now are we not?” Beomgyu chuckles.

The sound had made you flustered and you could only nod as your professor entered the lecture hall, preparing for yet another boring lesson that day, but that would change when you have Beomgyu by your side.

Once your class had ended, you packed up and walked down the halls with Beomgyu by your side, going over the lesson for the day and groaning at the absurd amount of things that needed to be done. Suddenly, as you were about to leave the campus, you ran into Jeongin and Heeseung, who were shocked to see you beside Beomgyu.

“Beomgyu? Y/n? How do you both know each other?” Heeseung asks. If he were honest, he would’ve expected you and Beomgyu to meet through them, but it seems like you beat them to it because you laughed at his words. “Kind of a long story but we met in the shop and found out we were neighbors not long after” you explained.

“No way? You’re the girl he–” Heeseung is immediately cut off by Beomgyu, who clears his throat and awkwardly peeks at you, almost rushing with his expression.

“I think me and Y/n really need to get going, I still have to accompany her to the flower shop” Beomgyu smiles and leads you away, making you wave at Heeseung and Jeongin without another word. 

As you crossed the street where your buildings were located, you wanted to ask Beomgyu what on earth Heeseung was talking about but decided not to pry since you guys didn’t know each other like that yet, so you kept your mouth shut. 

“Do you want to get food or anything? I’ll be working until around six or something, so you’re really free to come back since you live in the same building” you say, pushing the door of the flower shop open to greet your other co-worker, Chaewon, who you were taking over for the rest of the day.

“I don’t mind, but you might be bored out of your mind the first three hours, so I’ll keep you company. Contrary to popular belief, I actually like peace and quiet most of the time” Beomgyu explains. You nod and move towards his bag, which he hands to you hesitantly.

“I’m taking these to the back so that you don’t have to carry your bag around, by the way, this is my co-worker and senior, Chaewon. She’s been working here longer than I have and she’s in our circle” Chaewon smiles and waves at Beomgyu before heading back, getting ready to clock out.

“Nice to meet you! Y/n told me about you and how you were friends with Jeongin and Heeseung, welcome to our little group” Beomgyu nods in response and waits for you by the front, sitting on a chair that was just beside the counter. He was happy to find a lot of friends in just a short amount of time, he was worried about not finding anyone at all besides his current friends but was grateful that he met you. It was like fate almost.

You emerge from the back in a simple polo shirt and jeans with an apron thrown over it that had an embroidered ‘La Fleurette’ on the front of it, along with your handwritten name tag that he had grown fond of. “Did you wait long?” You ask, tying your hair in a messy bun just to get it out of the way.

“Not long, don’t worry. By the way, I wanted to ask about that apron of yours, it looks so cute. Did the owner by any chance encourage you guys to embroider that any way you liked?” Beomgyu points at the lettering on your uniform.

You hum at his question, remembering that the owner, Mrs. Kim had taught all the newbies how to embroider and encouraged them to customize their uniform as they liked, as long as it was minimal and not too out there. 

“Yup, the owner taught us herself! She teaches all the newbies these things, and she’s the sweetest. You have to meet her some time” you reply softly and start taking out any orders that need to be prepared. Beomgyu watches and his curiosity is piqued, he wanted to help somehow instead of just going on his phone and being a nuisance in the store.

“Hey Y/n, could you teach me how to arrange a bouquet by any chance? I want to help you somehow” he pipes up. You take a glance over towards him and approach him with a few flowers that were on the counter, along with a few brown papers and brown string. 

You place the items in front of him and can’t help but beam at his enthusiasm. You liked how he shared some interest in the boring and mundane job that you’ve grown to love after a year of working in the shop near your home and university. It was refreshing and heartwarming to you.

“Here, you can take any flower from here that you think would make a pretty arrangement and then I’ll teach you how to wrap it” Beomgyu inspects the flowers set in the small bins on the table and takes a few baby breath flowers, different colored roses, and some stray stems, before experimenting. Though you wondered how on earth he knew about adding the stems, you decided to ask him after, impressed at his amazing guess.

After five minutes of observing him, you notice how beautiful his arrangement came out and quickly move on to the next step to wrap it, to which Beomgyu eagerly responds to your instructions.

“Ok so put it here in the center, and carefully wrap the paper around it. There, now you can tie it” You show him and Beomgyu wraps the bouquet carefully before finally tying the string around it. You see the little sparkle in his eye as he completes his first bouquet and looks at you for approval. “Pretty for someone who claims they’re doing this for the first time, I like it a lot actually” you admit shyly. Truthfully, you wanted the bouquet for yourself, it was really beautiful and it was from the cutest boy you could’ve ever laid your eyes on. 

“Take it then, I mean, your boss wouldn’t mind, right? I could even buy it just so you could have it” Beomgyu says carefully. You blush and shake your head, there was no way you could just let him do this. Ms. Kim really wouldn’t mind, but the thought of Beomgyu giving it to you without a second thought made you flustered. He was really thoughtful because ironically enough, no one had ever given you a flower despite you working at a flower shop. 

“Ms. Kim wouldn’t mind, but I’m embarrassed that you’re giving it to me. I mean, don’t you have a special someone or something?” You mutter, hiding your face from Beomgyu’s eyes on you. ‘Why is he so good at holding eye contact? This is making me shy’ you thought.

“Y/n I wouldn’t be here if I had a girlfriend you know, I rather the prettiest girl I know has this bouquet. I mean, you deserve it” he says honestly.

You wondered how on earth Beomgyu was so open with his attraction towards you, but it’s not like you hated it. Maybe it was finally time to pursue a guy you showed interest in. 

Three hours had passed since your shift started and Beomgyu still hadn’t left because he seemed to really enjoy your company. Aside from occasional customers coming in and out, you both talked about everything from your families, your dreams, your and even your favorite things. You didn’t want it to end, and the moment felt too good to be true. You and Beomgyu even shared similar views and had a lot in common more than you thought.

“I said I would leave after three hours, but I don’t want to leave just yet, you know. I really like talking to you, and it’s insane how we haven’t exchanged contacts yet, so can I have your number and your socials if ever?” Beomgyu says dreamily.

You giggle at his tone and nod, writing your number down on a piece of paper and your Instagram account before going to the back to get his bag. Three hours passed like a breeze because of Beomgyu, so you had no problem spending the remainder of your shift alone because he also had to get going.

“I told you, I don’t want to leave you!” Beomgyu whines, but you shake your head and scold him. He was stubborn but you found it adorable. “You have to get work done and I can’t keep you here all day you know, you need to keep Toto company too. Tell you what, when I close up let’s go to the cafe next door, deal?” You made a suggestion and Beomgyu seemed to hesitate but took up your offer, pouting at the fact that he had to leave you.

“Fine, but you have to text me right after your shift so I can walk with you” you agree and watch Beomgyu leave with him adorably waving at you, to which you wave back and see his form disappear. Then you sigh and squeal with your heart pounding. You wanted to get to know him for a bit longer though, so you settled for acting friendly and getting to know him as a friend first, you wanted to play it safe when you barely knew him for a day.

Around a month had gone by since Beomgyu had moved into the city, and he settled into your friend group quite nicely. He got along well with everyone and had no problem talking to any of you, so you had grown even more fond of him the more you hung out with him. It was usually you two anyway, the duo that felt like they were attached at the hip and couldn’t get enough of each other. You studied at the library together, went shopping, and constantly called until late into the morning.

“Are you sure you two aren’t dating yet? Beomgyu posted you on his story last night where you both went to a diner down the block, and that doesn’t seem like something two besties would usually do” Yeji yawns. By now, everyone seemed to see you two as a couple, but you still brainwashed yourself into thinking it was all platonic in a sense. It just wasn’t the same as someone like Hyunjin though, being with Beomgyu was different. 

“Best friends in the process of dating I guess, I mean we haven’t exactly established what we want to be, so I’m not sure where to go from here,” you say groggily and without much thought. It was an hour until closing and the day was surprisingly busier than most, so you couldn’t wait to get takeout from Seungmin’s café and lay in your bed with Luna while reading a new book that was recommended by Soobin.

“Well, you need to make the first move or something because you will not get anywhere if you hesitate” Yeji smacks the back of your head playfully, and you frown at her. You didn’t want to make any advances that would possibly make Beomgyu uncomfortable, but you couldn’t find the right time either.

Right at that moment, the bell chimes and you are ready to serve yet another customer, but your heart falls out of your ass when you see it’s the exact person you both talked about just a minute ago.

“Hey Y/n, don’t worry, I’m not here to ask for a bouquet, yet, but I wanted to ask you if you know–” Beomgyu pauses, noticing Yeji sneaking away to give you both a moment alone, before continuing once she’s out of sight. 

“As I was saying uh if you wanted to go on a date? Just us, and since we’re both not really the type to go out a lot, I wanted to invite you over” he adds. You look at him, flustered at how open he is, and nod as you take up his invitation.

“I would love to, when?” Beomgyu was now blushing and couldn’t bring himself to look at you, he finally plucked up the courage to ask you out after a month and you were just as eager as he was. His heart couldn’t take it.

“Tomorrow? It’s your day off isn’t it, so yeah I guess tomorrow at like three maybe?” You fiddle with your fingers bashfully and nod, it was perfect and you actually liked the idea of staying in.

“That’s perfect for me, I’ll just come over then,” you say sweetly. Beomgyu looked shy and bid you goodnight before walking back to his apartment.

When he was gone, Yeji burst from the back room and cheered for you. You were finally going on a date with Beomgyu? It felt like a dream, you just couldn’t believe it. After pining after him for a month, you were finally going to be with him. 

“Looks like our little miss has a perfect life, finally found the last missing piece of the puzzle, her perfect boyfriend” Yeji teases. You click your tongue and shush her as you both get ready to close up the shop. You just couldn’t believe it, Beomgyu really did feel the same way and you were relieved he made the first move because you both had waited far too long.

In Seungmin’s cafe, you immediately go to tell him and the others the news. Jeongin doesn’t seem to be surprised but Hyunjin was just excited as you were and Seungmin hands you your order with his eyes wide open. “I mean it was bound to happen, he can’t and never will shut up about you Y/n'' the blood rushes to your face at Jeongin’s revelation. 

“Hope you have fun and stay safe, you two were cowards but I’m glad he made the first move. Again, Y/n don’t overthink it ok? Just be yourself, I’m feeling a confession coming in so don’t try too hard” You thank Hyunjin and apologize for rushing home, but it was just one of those days and they understood anyway. It was a big thing to see you finally dating someone.

You unlock the door to your apartment and almost scare your cat as you hurriedly place your things down, almost forgetting to leave food for her before showering and doing your entire night routine. Once you were in your pajamas, you proceeded to pick a comfy outfit for you to laze around in. You never thought about what to wear, but you grab a hoodie Beomgyu left and a pair of pajama shorts for tomorrow. 

“Luna, should I do my makeup tomorrow?” Your cat meows in response and you nod. Maybe light makeup would suffice, you didn’t want to see your soon-to-be boyfriend looking all roughed up like usual. You then hang your outfit in front of your closet and walk over to your desk which faces the city, you could never get tired of the pretty view as you write your book. 

You open the file of the last chapter file and smile at how far you’ve gotten. You were still in the second chapter when you met Beomgyu, but ever since then you’ve been inspired and now you’re finally at the last few pages before you’re ready to publish it. 

“Can you believe this is about a girl not believing in love until someone comes along to prove her wrong? Thank you to that song for inspiring this and to Beomgyu for helping me finish this book” You laugh and cradle Luna close, burying your nose into her fur. 

To say you didn’t believe in love was an understatement, but it felt like a switch had flipped inside of you upon meeting Beomgyu. You never told anyone about your views on love, usually brushing it off as just you not finding the right person, but ever since you could remember, you’ve only ever been rejected by every person you’ve shown interest in. 

You choked it up as maybe you not being attractive enough for anyone, or maybe you were lacking in a way, but Beomgyu had proved you wrong completely. You thought you could survive being single and were content with it for a while until he came along and showed you that love was something worth waiting for.  

“I finally feel complete Luna, and I’m grateful I was patient enough to be able to experience the thing I used to dread completely” you whisper. Luna nuzzles back against you and you sigh in contentment.

Love had a weird way of squirming itself into your life at the most unexpected moment and in the most unexpected ways. That night, you went to bed with a smile on your face and with your heart racing for the first time ever. 

The date had come quicker than you had initially expected since you woke up at around noon and only had enough time to shower, eat brunch and feed Luna before you started to get ready. You put on Beomgyu’s hoodie and your pajama pants before putting on only concealer, mascara, and brown eyeliner, spraying on a bit of your favorite perfume after.

You pick out a pair of your favorite fluffy socks and put them on, not forgetting to bring your wallet, phone, lip balm, and other essentials in a small tote bag before putting your sandals on and heading over to Beomgyu’s apartment right on time.

“You could’ve texted me and I would have come to get you downstairs, but you’ve been here a handful of times. Come in!” Beomgyu is in awe at your appearance, he never expected you to turn up in his hoodie, making you look even more adorable than ever. You could say the same about him, even in a simple pair of sweats and a shirt, he still looked handsome as ever. 

“What’s first on the agenda today Gyu?” You giggle and set your bag down, before seeing a switch wired up to the TV and an array of games right beside it. “No way?! You actually bought a switch, I can’t believe you. I guess scoring a part-time job at a fancy restaurant has its perks” you joke. 

“I work minimum wage, I had to save up like crazy but I honestly just wanted to buy one so I could play with you since you had one. I mean, I even started grinding on Animal Crossing like a madman” Beomgyu follows you and plops onto his couch as you inspect the games he had.

You felt shy almost, he really bought a switch just so you two could play together? What kind of person would go through that much effort just for you? Only Beomgyu would.

“You’re crazy you know that, but that’s really cute of you. You should be glad I brought mine, but first, let’s play Mario Kart” You grab the controller and hand Beomgyu the other one, making his heart race.

This date was probably one of the best impulsive decisions he had ever made, and seeing your smile was worth the countless shifts he’s worked to get the console. 

From bickering over who won to sharing takeout, and now settling down while watching Harry Potter, you couldn’t have asked for anything better. That was until Beomgyu suddenly got up and you wondered where he was going.

“Wait there, I have to do this no matter how cheesy it might seem” Beomgyu calls out from his room. You chuckle and pause the movie, you needed all of your focus to be on the man since he was doing something special for you. 

Beomgyu comes back holding his guitar and your heart starts racing again. Was he going to sing you a song? And your thoughts were correct as he sat in front of you with a bashful look, tuning his guitar to avoid your gaze. He never thought he could ever love someone so much to the point where he could even write an entire song for them. 

Beomgyu sucks in a breath and looks at you with love in his eyes, there was no turning back from this and honestly, he had nothing to lose. He liked you so much that he’d be willing to do anything for you, so when he sees you tear up upon him finishing the song, he decided to confess everything he’s felt towards you.

“Y/n, my other half that I would’ve never expected was just within my reach. From the first time I laid my eyes on you, I knew you were my everything and threw every thought away. You were on my mind every waking moment and now I fully understand that I love you,” Beomgyu says and takes your hand in his before continuing.

“You made me learn how to show affection towards the one you cared for, doing everything in my power to even see you happy. The countless bouquets I got weren’t even for anything specific, I just needed to see you because you’re prettier than any flower in that shop for that matter. Seeing how passionate you were about your job and how much you cared for others only made me want you more,” he pauses to take in a breath, and you let out the one you didn’t even know you were holding.

“I was broken when you told me about the countless rejections you’ve gotten, how could they not appreciate the most amazing person right in front of them? I will never understand when knowing you was one of the best things that could have ever happened to me, and I hope you know that I will wait for you however long you want me to because I will love you with all my heart” Beomgyu ends his confession and you don’t take another second before crashing your lips against his. You pull away and look at him before letting out a confession of your own because who knew you both felt so deeply for each other? 

“You, are one of the main reasons I started to believe in love again. I was a hopeless romantic writing a book about a girl giving up on love, but you inspired me to make her feel it again. You showed me that love is worth waiting for and that it always comes in the most unexpected ways, I love you so much Beomgyu, I hope you know that. You don’t need to wait a moment longer when I want you just as much” you breathe out. 

Beomgyu kisses you again and he smiles against your lips, nothing else mattered at that moment except the two of you. Even if love really did take its time, it brings the right people together and the wait is worth all the heartbreak and growth in the process.

© qyuoza 2023 -. no part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any manner without the permission from the publisher.

[mlmvoreconfessionals]

Able to do some mass vore and disposal with a willing spiderman pred?

That sounds like a good idea.

He knew he was going to be next. It was supposed to just be a simple robbery, and it had been! They'd gotten the money and were back at their hideout, they should've been safe! But they'd been followed back, and now he's the only one left. He can hear the wet slurps of someone being devoured, followed by a belch that echos throughout the warehouse. That was the last of his partners. And he's going to be next. With nothing else to lose, the man makes a break for the door, hoping to get to the car and drive off before he can be caught. Five men disappeared, after all. Surely that's enough to slow the bastard down! But it wasn't. He feels something sticky hit him in the back and he's being pulled up into the air yelling. He looks up to see S.pider-man on the wall, his engorged gut hanging down low with his partner's bulging it out. And then all he sees is that wide open maw and...GULP! Down he goes. With the last of the robbers gone, S.pider-Man pulls his mask back down over his face. His stomach is stretched tightly, bubbling and churning wetly over the sounds of all their yelling. "I guess the others have started being a bad influence on me..." S.pidey was one of the few heroes that didn't devour people all too often. But between the A.venges and guys like V.enom and D.eadpool...well, it was hard not to start falling into those same habits. On the plus side, he's gotten pretty good at hanging from stuff with so much extra weight in him. Six guys in his gut and he's still hanging onto the wall just fine! Though his stomach is pressed pretty tightly against it and it sounds like it isn't all too pleasant for those guys. Then again, digesting alive in a cramped gut can't be either, and that hasn't stopped S.pidey yet. He presses his gut closer to the wall, letting out a harsh belch as his works on pulverizing his meals. "I know you guys are just a bunch of petty robbers, and you probably don't deserve this, but..." He pushes down again. Something snaps inside of his stomach and he shivers when he feels one of those men start breaking down. "...I seriously can't get enough of this. I'm a busy guy though, so we just need to...speed...this...up...!" Grinding his stomach against the wall and flexing it, S.pider-Man is making short work of all those goons. They scream and yell for a bit, but they all break the same. With enough crunches and cracks, their bodies fall apart in S.pidey's stomach as he wastes them in record time. A few meaty belches are the most they can amount to as the hero's stomach rounds out and shrinks down. S.pider-Man jumps down from the wall, landing on his feet with his round stomach wobbling a bit. A deep fart blows from his ass and...well, he's glad he's got the mask on, or his red face would be exposed. "Guess that's your cue..." He squats down and starts to push. Ever since he started eating like his friends, he'd modified his suit to handle his new diet, so there's no need to take it off as thick logs of crap slide out of his ass and right out of the suit, steadily piling up in a heap under him. He spends about five minutes making a mini-mountain of crap, broken bones decorating the otherwise brown mass. Once he's done, he gives the pile a small salute and heads out the window he used to get inside, taking the stolen goods with him. So long as they're returned, no one will care what happened to the thieves. S.pider-man can at least assure they won't be repeat offenders.

"W-Wait, please, don't eat me! I haven't done anything!" the man begs. He's dangling in the air, stuck in webbing, and just below him is the wide-open maw of S.pider-Man. He's not even the first guy to walk into his trap--the hero's stomach is large, putting his spandex suit to the test as it bulges out with his various meals. "Sorry, no hard feelings," S.pidey says, "but today's been a slow day and someone has to feed me. Being a hero is hungry work, after all!" He lets go of the web he was holding, and the civilian gets out a short scream before plunging straight down into that open maw just like everyone else before him. S.pider-Man didn't even need to gulp--the poor guy dropped straight into that deadly gut. With that settled, S.pider-man scales the wall to get to the webbing he'd made higher up and out of sight so he can lay on it. Hands behind his head, his gut sticking up in the air, he lets out a massive belch and relaxes. Ever since he started eating like a hero, his appetite has been insatiable. He can usually settle it on the various goons that populate the city, but that much eating is bound to lead to more shortages and slow days. But the amount of crime does not change his need for lots of live meat, and S.pider-Man eventually realized he has to start snacking on the people of the city when there's nothing else to eat. He'd honestly had fewer hangups with the idea than he thought he would. Bad guys or good guys, his stomach doesn't seem to care. All it needs is live meat and it's happy. So he's set up these hunting spots around the cities. He finds back alleys that have just enough foot traffic that he can pick off meals for a little while and then sit back and digest it all after. Sure, the random civilians he eats don't really like it, and they aren't exactly going to have a fun time boiling into a thick stew in his stomach, but it's all in the name of protecting the entire city, right? S.pidey needs to eat to keep everyone safe and sometimes that means he has to eat a few citizens to do so. They're at least being sacrificed for the greater good. That's something, right? It's at least a good enough justification for the hero. And besides, the pile of shit he's going to leave in one of the dumpsters back here won't be able to complain about it anyway. He'll melt all these meals down over the course of a couple of hours, dump them out in the garbage, and swing off with no one the wiser. A harsh belch rumbles out of S.pider-Man and he pats his stomach a few times. He can already feel it melting them down...before long, there's just going to be more S.pider-Man, and a few less people he has to protect.

"Urgh...dammit all..." S.pidey feels like there's no end to it! Each time he pinches off a massive log, there's just another one right behind it that he's pushing out! This is definitely his biggest pile to date...biggest meal, too. He'd cleared out some goons working for his villain of the week when D.eadpool called him up and asked for some help. He'd wanted to say no but...couldn't get out of it, and wound up having to devour half of a crime lord's gang thanks to him. He got maybe an hour to digest everything when another villain decided to strike, and S.pidey was stuck eating his hostages. He's still not even sure how he messed that up, but the villain at least seemed to have given up once he ran out of lives to hold over S.pidey's head. After that, though, he ended up being cornered by some fans who did not seem to care about how stuffed his stomach was or how badly he wanted to just go and digest all that meat, so he had to eat them, too to get them out of his way. Then he somehow got stuck dealing with a bunch of prisoners after the cops basically begged him to eat a few...he ate the cops for the trouble, too. By the time he was done, he was basically dragging his gut around, and he was far too heavy to swing away. He's lucky he was able to find a place to hide out and sleep all of it off. It took all night but his body has at least learned what to do with all that meat and pumped it all away by the time he woke up. But that's lead to his current dilemma. He's been shitting for at least half an hour and he still doesn't feel like he's done. Each log is thicker than both of his legs put together and dense, too, packed with bones and clothes from all those guys he ate. He can almost make some of them out, like the ruined cop uniforms and those suits from the crime lord gang. But by now he just wants the whole thing to end! He's left a pile bigger than himself already and it's become annoying. Plus...his stomach is starting to growl. Even dumping the biggest shit of his life and the horrible smell that comes with it hasn't stopped his body from demanding more food. It lets his mind wander to what he plans to eat for the day as he continues pushing out yesterday's feast. He'd just about decided when he felt the last of it finally drop out of him. With a groan, he stands up again and glances over his shoulder. The pile is taller than him at this point, made up of thick logs that a person wouldn't guess a human made, let alone S.pider-Man. All the skeletons sticking out of the crap leaves it pretty morbid...but S.pidey's gut growls again, reminding him he has places to be. So he's quick to swing away, leaving the mass of waste behind. Hopefully, no one minds too much that he did his business in the middle of the park...he's sure the city will get it all cleaned up in no time.

[meatballdonut]

HOME

For some reason, I cant add an actual title

Part two??

Summary: Never having a place to call home can do something to a person. The most apparent side effect, never getting attached. Eddie Musnons changes everything for you, but will you be able to get over your issues?

Warnings: Physical/ Emotional Abuse, Brief mention of an eating disorder, Eddie being Eddie, mild angst.

Characters: Eddie Munson X Fem!Reader, Steve, Dunstin, Mike, random made up people, shitty parents, Jason Carver. 

Pairing: Eddie Munson X Fem!Reader (not really a relationship, but it's hinted that it will eventually happen)

Word Count: 2,167

Master List

When most people say they have a home, they mean they have a place they will always feel safe, welcome, and loved. That is why you have never had a home, sure you've had a place to sleep, but never a home. You've been with your parents youre entire life, but you've never felt welcome, wanted, and nowhere near loved. Instead, you feel used, unimportant, and unneeded. A home doesn't need to be an actual house, a home can be a person, thing, or an idea, another thing you've never had.  As far as you can remember, this is how you've always been treated, nobody allowing you to get close, nobody taking the time to get to know you, and certainly nobody took the time to befriend you, giving you your reputation as the “weird” loner girl who sits by herself all day.  This wasn't the worst reputation you could have, it also wasn't false. You did prefer to be by yourself, saving you from both the awkwardness of getting to know someone, and the fear of becoming their friend. 

There was another mis represented person in this school, Eddie Munson, most commonly called, the freak of Hawkins. You have never spoken to the so-called “freak” but you could tell he meant well. He was usually hanging out with the other kids in the school that didn't fit into any social groups, giving them a home. Putting on shows for everyone to see in the lunchroom, jumping on tables, picking fights with the basketball players, being everything you werent. You weren't quite as lucky as the other kids he's brought into his group, yes you were out of the social norm, yes, you didn't fit into any social group, no, you were not a part of the home Eddie has created. You weren't sure if you wanted to actually be a part of his group, or if you just liked the idea of belonging. Though it was probably for the best, you couldn't help but feel hurt that you were more of an outcast than the “freaks'' of the school. Being so much more of an outcast than them that you didn't belong with them either. Confirming your role as the schools number one loner. 

School goes by in a slow blurr, classes where teachers call on everyone but you, other classes where students work with their friends and you're left to work alone. Except for biology, today was different. In today's class you were meant to dissect a frog, great, but with this project you were also assigned a partner. Jason Carver, the biggest jerk in this school since Billy Hargrove. “How did I get stuck with the weirdo?” He sounded angry, furious at the thought of having to work with someone outside of his social status. “Mr. Carver, I think you will find that y/n here is very intelligent. You might even find you lucked out with your pairing.” The teacher knew what she was doing, giving him the student that would do the brunt of the work. “Whatever” He made no attempt at making his way over to your table, so when the rest of the students took their seats with their partners, you made your way over to him. Neither of you speaking a word, you began reading over the assignment. “Let's lay down some ground rules. You're doing the work, Ill present it, deal?” With a heavy sigh, you dont speak and simply nod acknowledging  and agreeing to his terms. You weren't necessarily mad at the arrangement, you wouldn't have to speak with him too often, and you wouldn't have to worry about one of you going over to the other's house. So you began working, laying out the assignment, figuring out the best way to complete it, and then, dissecting the frog. You've always been squeamish, not liking the sight of blood and certainly not the sight of another creature's intestines. Nonetheless, you finish the first part of the assignment, while neither of you spoke, you could feel him watching you at times. Taking in your focus, and the way you pretended as if he wasn't here. You had caught the attention of the worst person in the school. “You know what, I'll help you with the project. How does your place after school sound?” Oh no, no no no no no. This couldn't be happening. “N-no it's okay, i prefer working this way” He couldn't come over, nobody can come over.  He let out a light chuckle, no way YOU were rejecting HIM. “Nope, i'm coming over after school, and we are going to do this project” The tone of his voice alluded to his very obvious ulterior motives. That's not what you were worried about, your parents would kill you. “Can we do it in the library here at school? My parents hate when I bring company over” For the first time in that class, or ever, you meet his eyes. Trying to show how truly desperate you were for him not to come to your house. By the grace of god, he agreed. The both of you are planning to meet there directly after your last class. 

School ended faster than you had hoped, this was the most social interaction you had gotten in ages. Wanting to get this over with, you went to the library and began working on the project. “I've been walking around for a few minutes, thought you stood me up”  You could see straight through his fake kindness, he didn't want to be your friend, he wanted you for your looks and the title he could have. “No, i've been here, we don't have much left to do”  You could feel the smugness radiating off of him, you couldn't practically hear him smirking at you. “I think we should focus our attention on something more interesting than the project.” There it was, you knew that's what he wanted, and you knew that it was going to be put on the table. “No, I would rather focus on the project”  Silence, gut wrenching silence. He didn't know what to do, or to say. Nobody had ever rejected him so flat out before, How could they? He was Jason god damn Carver. “Think about what you're doing right now y/n, think about the reputation I have compared to the one you have. I could make your life a living hell, so I'm going to ask again. Why don't we focus on something more Interesting” What could he do that would make your life worse. “Pass” your fate was sealed, there was no going back from this moment, but what's the worst that could happen. His threat quickly coming to fruition, he took his hand and swiped all your work off the table you were working at. “You're going to regret this y/n” with that, he walked away, and you stayed putting everything back on the table and continuing to work on your project. 

You werent there for much longer, maybe another thirty minutes. You decided it was time to go home, hoping to either find your parents passed out drunk on the couch, or maybe they wouldn't be home at all. Instead of your hopes coming to life, they were very much intoxicated, which of course means they were mad about something you did. Even if that something was nothing. “About damn time you showed up” Your mother spoke, her words slurred, eyes crossed. Things were about to get bad, as they usually did. She stood up and made her way over to you “where were you” . She has mastered the ‘I'm drunk and I want to sound scary’ tone, and as most people are, she is a considerable amount taller than you. Your mother looms over you, waiting for an answer that will satisfy her expectations. “I was at the school working on a project for biology” you know not to sound scared in these moments, if you do it won't do anything but encourage her to continue. Her nostrils flare, her eyes grow a few centimeters,she's pissed. “Liar”  then starts the nightly routine of your parents taking turns to ‘discipline’ you, even though you are well in your teen years and not in need of discipline.  Punches to the gut, face, arms, legs, any place they can manage to land a kick or a punch, you better believe they will. 

This goes on for a few hours, nobody daring to interrupt them during their violent episodes. You know, as well as everyone else knows, that the walls of your trailer are less than sound proof. If you can hear a car door close from three trailers down, you best believe that they can hear the yells coming from both you and your parents, and yet nobody does anything about it. You've always hoped that one day someone would be the knight in shining armor that you read about when you were a child, but as you've grown you have realized that those were just fairy tales. 

________________ As the days passed, Jason kept his end of the promise, making your life a living hell. Between your home life, and the beatings led by Jason at school, you have no true peace. Nothing to look forward to, nothing. At lunch you try to sit in peace, taking a moment to yourself, but that is quickly ruined by the cool sensation caused by someone pouring their drink directly on top of you. This was your breaking point, finally allowing yourself to feel everything you have been holding back. Tears quickly spill down your face, looking down hoping nobody would see. You honestly needed for people not to see how truly broken you felt. “Guys we finally did it, we broke the weirdo” you could see just how truly happy the person was that you had broken. Before anybody could be too happy about your downfall, someone stepped in. Your hero, the freak himself, Eddie Munson. “I think you've made your point, yeah?” His tall, looming figure doing his best to intimidate anyone watching. His dark clothes, big hair, and striking image managed to get the jerk who poured his drink on top of you to scamper off. “I'm sorry they did that to you” you didn't know what to say, this was the first time someone had spoken to you with no ulterior motive, and this was sure as shit the first time someone had spoken to you after preventing someone from bullying you further. All you could do was look at him, a glimmer of happiness held in both of your eyes, as a sudden weight was lifted off of your shoulder. The weight of not having anybody in your life that you can trust, because, in this one short and fleeting moment, you had him. “Thank you” ��A smile grew on your face, causing one to grow on his. The way his lips curled up into their natural position, a smile. His natural position was a smile, while yours was a frown. His eyes are bright, while yours are dim. He was everything you weren't, he was strong enough to handle the maltreatment of the jocks at school, and he was strong enough to stand up to them for a total stranger. “It's not a problem really, I've been wanting to tell that guy off for a while now, and I've also been looking for a reason to talk to you” He took his seat next to you, while also offering you a spare shirt he had. “Drinks have been poured on me more times than I can count, I always keep a spare '' His smile still had not faded from his face.  He was bright, happy, and warm. “T-thank you”  nobody had ever shown you this much kindness, nobody had ever looked for a reason to talk to you. Eddie Munson has been in your life for all five minutes, and he has already been the first person to do a lot of things.  “Are those the only words you know?” You could tell he was joking, the lopsided smirk planted on his face, the shining in his eyes, nothing about his demeanor hinted at any malice coming off of him. “Sorry I guess I'm kind of in shock, nobody has wanted to talk to me before, let alone stand up for me” Your words were small and quiet, but he was listening. Someone was listening to you. “Why don't you come to sit with us? We've been meaning to add someone else to our crew of misfits” Your stomach did three summersaults, he wanted you to sit with them. He wanted you to be a part of their family, their home. “ I would love that Eddie, I really would” a cheesy grin grew on your face, you had done it, he had done it. Maybe now you would belong somewhere, maybe now you could finally have it. A Home.

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As time goes by | Chapter 7: The difference

Pairings: Eddie Munson x fem!reader

Word Count: 3.8k

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Chapter Summary: The new school year begins with you and Eddie in senior year. You are also back to work at the Arcade, where you meet the red-haired girl who has just moved to Hawkins and her annoying older step-brother.

You wake up the following day eager to go to school, knowing that Eddie would now drive you every day. And that was very, very stupid, but just a consequence of that crush that bloomed into a full-blown love that cherishes every moment you spend with him. 

You leave your trailer but see that Eddie is not yet in his van. You gently knock on his door, opening it after hearing, "Come in!". You can smell coffee and eggs - Eddie and Wayne are in the kitchen, having breakfast. Wayne drinks a bit of coffee from his blue mug, opening a smile when seeing you enter the trailer and sit next to him. 

"Look at my little girl going to her senior year," he says while ruffling your head. 

You smile back and notice how warm and bright his eyes are - he looks like a proud dad, which for all matters, he is. He has been on your side at all your significant milestones, celebrating all the achievements, no matter how small they were. 

"Good morning, sweetheart," Eddie has his mouth full. He is rushing, barely taking the time to chew his scrambled eggs, wiping his mouth with his sleeve. 

"Manners, boy!" Wayne scolds him, and you chuckle. 

"I'm sorry! I have to go, can't be late. I promise I'll clean everything later, ok?" He gets up and picks up his things.

"Wish me luck, uncle Wayne!" you say, getting up and following Eddie out of the trailer. You can hear him saying, "Good luck! Take care!".

Eddie opens the van door for you, and you nod to him in thanks before slipping inside. He enters the van, turns on the radio, and "Crazy little thing called love" by Queen is playing. He reaches for the radio to change it, but you slap his hand away. 

"Please, sweetheart, going to the school isn't torture enough? Let me choose the song."

"Not today, let me have some fun and cheer up the mood a bit," But he insists on trying to reach the radio, and you slap him once more and hold his hand to prevent him from trying again.  

“This thing… called love… I just.. can't handle it…" you start singing along, laughing as you see his rolling eyes. 

"You're too small to be so hugely irritating, you know?" he breaks free from your hold and starts clumsy tickling you, making you laugh even harder.

Several dozen students are arriving to start the school day. The van skids a bit, but Eddie pulls into an empty parking space, not without making many students turn their heads to look, probably terrified by Eddie's driving. As soon as you leave the van, you feel Eddie taking your things from your arms and screaming while touching your shoulder, "Tag, you're it!"

"What? Eds, stop!" but he is already running, crossing the parking lot, and you have to chase him. While some people take a step back and let you both pass, others don't, and Eddie doesn't care if he has to push people to open a path for him. He continues to tease you, "You are soooo slow! Come and get me!"

Eddie runs down the corridor, dodging around corners and any obstacles along the way. You hear some people sighing "Freak" when you both pass by, but you try to ignore them. You enter the cafeteria, and when you almost catch him, he makes a sudden change in direction, jumping over a table, making it more challenging for you to catch up. 

He suddenly stops, and you hear the bell ringing. He declares, "Right on time!"

You try to catch your breath and reply, confused. "What?"

"I know you have Mrs. Kreitzberg in the first period." You notice then that he has taken you to your class, where you see the students taking their seats. "Have a nice class, sweetheart… see you later."

You watch him walk down the corridor to go to his class. You try to concentrate in class but have difficulty taking Eddie out of your mind. 

At your break between the fifth and sixth periods, you go to your usual meet spot with Eddie in the back of one of the buildings. He is already there, taking a cigarette out of his pack of Camels. 

"I need one, this is just the first day, and I'm so fucking done. If this year is anything like the last, I'm killing myself," he says while lighting the cig. 

"Don't be so dramatic, Eds. You'll survive."

He takes a drag on the cigarette and passes it to you. He could have given you your own, but you are used to sharing, so he doesn't mind. And now you take special attention to see where his lips touch to try to touch the same spot when it's your turn. You know it's silly, but it's your secret symbolic way of kissing him. You repeat this with everything you share, bottles, cigarettes, even the single spoon you usually share when eating ice cream. You stay there in silence for a moment, dragging the cigarette in the open air, hands slightly touching once in a while. 

"Gareth will bring your Hellfire t-shirt tomorrow." Eddie breaks the silence. "I know you like to spend lunch with Wheeler, but this is your last year… Would you please sit with us on Fridays? Pleeeease?" he pleads.

He is looking at you with those puppy eyes and squeezing your hand, hoping to win you over. You nod, agreeing, and his face brightens with a smile. You hear some giggling and turn to see. It's Tommy H and his girlfriend, Carol. He is kissing her passionately, and her hands are all over him. 

"I wonder what that feels like," you mutter as you place your chin in the palm of your hand. 

Eddie takes another drag as his attention flicks to where you are looking. 

"What they have is purely physical. He doesn't care about her. She is nothing more than an object to him." Eddie mutters. "Luckily, you're too smart for that; you'll get something much better than this."

"Being smart is getting me nowhere. Maybe I want something, even if it's purely physical."

He nudges you off with a grunt. You lean closer to make sure you see right… Eddie is blushing. 

"Oh my…" You gasped in amusement, dramatically pressing a hand to your heart, "Is that a blush I see, Eds?"

And while you can't quite explain why, you feel the excitement building up inside you because you make him blush. 

"Am I the reason why you are blushing?" You step up to him teasingly. 

"You are the reason for my headache," he replies jokingly. The bell rings, and he snuffs his cigarette into the wall, and you make your way back to class. 

Getting back to work was better than you imagined, making the week pass quickly. Keith was not the ideal co-worker and always asked you to help him set up a date with Nancy, even though you told him several times that she already had a boyfriend. Still, he never complained about trading shifts with you, which guaranteed you would have your Fridays free to go to Hellfire meetings.

Eddie was beyond excited when he saw you going to school using the new Hellfire shirt on Friday. At lunchtime, when you enter the cafeteria, he throws his arms up in the air, signaling where he is as if you don't know the table where they sit. You duck in to kiss the top of his head as you pass and sit next to Gareth. Eddie pokes him, and they change seats, and now Eddie is resting his arm on your chair.

"I'm glad you finally are here with us - I thought that you didn't consider us friends enough to give us the privilege of your company during lunch," Jeff frowns. 

"You know, I was never good with this whole friendship thing, but I'm doing my best," you reply. "Something prevented me from having friends when I was a little girl."

"It must have been your personality," Eddie interjects

"Oh, don't be a dickhead, Eddie," you hear Gareth saying, and you join him. "Yeah, don't be a dickhead”

"Next person to say dickhead is getting a punch to the throat," he threatens, but you all start to repeat the word to annoy him until he pouts.  

"Ok, that's enough, boys, let's give Eddie a break… what were you discussing when I got here?"

"We were discussing how we would prevent a demon from possessing us… or bring us back if any of us is possessed," Jeff explained. 

"Oh, don't worry about me then. If a demon possessed me, I would tell him, 'Go ahead, take it from here, good luck,'" your answer causing a burst of laughter.

The rest of the day passes quickly. When school is over, Eddie drives you back to his trailer, where you spend the rest of the afternoon working on your assignments while Eddie is giving the final touches on today's campaign. Wayne will work day shifts for the next couple of weeks, and you hurry to cook dinner so he can eat before his last day on the night shift. Finally, you all enjoy dinner together before Eddie takes you to Hellfire. 

As usual, Eddie's campaign is brutal. You are all tense, and Eddie has just shifted his position on his throne. 

"Gareth the Great had helped you cautiously make your way down the damp stone corridor leading you to an open space that seems like a garden. You feel the chilly wind and hear a hissing. You notice plants near you blacken and die, and the torches are extinguished."

You are all leaning forward. Jeff says, "What is it?". You just mumble, "Please, not a wraith." Gareth starts, "We're screwed, aren't we?"

Eddie waits for you to settle down and then says in a high-pitched voice while putting the small piece set on the map, "A ghostly figure appeared before you, its haunting presence filling the air with a chill. The wraith floats towards you, its ethereal body transparent and its eyes glowing with an otherworldly light."

You all stare at each other. Shit. "We're all gonna die," Gareth sighs. 

"Witch, your action," Eddie asks. 

You swallow. God, you wish it wasn't your turn. "I-I don't know."

"The wraith hisses in response, its voice echoing in your heads, ready to attack with lightning speed with its spectral claws."

"Cast a spell. Bolts of energy and fire may do," Jeff encourages.

"I'd have to roll fifteen or higher. And you could die; I have to protect you."

"Forget about us; kill it. It's a calculated risk." Gareth echoes

"And it seems you are bad at math," Eddie chuckles. 

"I can't. I can't lose you guys. I'll cast protection."

The battle was intense, with you using all your cunning and magic to defeat the wraith. In the end, you emerged victorious, and Eddie called it a night. The boys take their things, getting ready to leave. 

"Kiss your mom' night for me, Gareth," Jeff teases. Gareth flips him the bird. 

"Behave, boys." you smile, watching them leave while you and Eddie organize the room. 

While riding home, Eddie turns the volume of the music down and asks, "Hey, sweetheart, are you ok?"

You think, "Sorry I was distracted; I'm busy creating perfect scenarios of us being together in my mind... knowing they will never come true." But, when you open your mouth, all you say is, "Yes."

"Has something happened? You are different." he looks worried.

"No, and I'm not different." 

"Back at Hellfire… you never hesitated to put yourself in danger in direct attacks or actions, but now you are playing safe. You are worried about losing one of them. You are even taking more hits and hurting yourself more than you need just to ensure that they are ok."

Well, it's not only about your DnD playstyle. You are also taking a more cautious approach and putting others - putting him - as a priority, no matter how it could hurt you. 

"Maybe I'm just being sentimental because this is our last year playing together. I don't want to go ahead first and face everything alone. Staying behind with them is ok, even if it hurts a bit."

"Are you again scared of being alone?" Now you are sure he is talking about something other than DnD. You just nod. 

"Hey, that's ok. I get it. Whenever I imagine myself being happy, you are there too. I don't think about the future much, but whenever I think about it, it includes you, and that's my favorite part."

"Of course it is; you know I won't let you mess up," you point out making him laugh. 

"Oh, Eds, what are you doing to my heart?" you think while admiring him. 

Saturday morning shift at the Palace Arcade was yours, and Eddie gave you a ride. You gave him a quick kiss on the cheek and raced for the door to open it up and ensure everything was ok. The movement was usually slow in the mornings, so you had time to organize things. 

You are suddenly startled when you hear the blast of Scorpions playing outside. You raise your head to see a red-haired girl leaving a blue Camaro, arguing with whoever was driving, before entering the arcade. She seems ashamed, and you pretend that you have not seen anything. You exchange the money she offered you for coins and notice as she goes to one of the back corridors. You haven't seen her around before.

After a couple of hours, you see the Camaro back at the arcade parking lot, with a tall and muscular young man with shaggy hair in a mullet coming out of it and entering the arcade. 

"How can I help?" you ask. 

"Hey, Miss, I'm looking for my little sister; she came here today to play." He pauses, and you can feel him scanning you with his eyes. "My name is Billy Hargrove; nice to meet you."

He is trying to be charming, but you feel that something about him is off. You can't quite pinpoint what it is, but his presence sets on all the alerts within your mind, making you feel stressed. 

"She is down the corridor," you reply coldly. 

He looks at you, puzzled. He expected you to be fascinated with him, as almost all girls and women usually are, but you are not falling for his charm, which intrigues him. 

"I'm new in town; maybe you could show me around," he offers, leaning on the counter.

"I'm sure you'll find someone to help you with that." if your boss saw how coldly you were treating a potential customer, you would probably be fired, but something about him made you want to run away. 

"Yes, I'll find… I'm sure there are a lot of cows in this city… but you are not one of them. I got a feeling about you." He let it slip a bit of that mask of politeness he was trying to keep up. He is piercing you with his blue eyes that seem to convey a sense of danger and mistrust in you. 

"Billy?" the red-haired girl appears behind him, and you look at her. 

She is looking at him, and you recognize the wide eyes, that expression of fear and anger that crosses her face. It's the same expression you have when it comes to your father. You glare at him, recognizing that he is probably another emotional abuser. 

"You should go now."

"We'll meet again, honey," he teases, touching a strand of your hair before leaving. 

You sigh in disgust and can't wait for the shift to be over so you can return home; hopefully, spending time with Eddie will make you feel better. But unfortunately, as you arrive, you notice a car parked next to Eddie's van. A blue Camaro Z-28. Billy's car. 

You curse, thinking that Billy befriending Eddie is not a good thing. You step into your trailer and close the door behind you. Your father is sprawled on the sofa, shirtless, wearing just a pair of jeans. The house is cluttered with beer bottles and cigarette butts, and you wonder how he made such a mess in just one morning.  

"You better clean everything, you hear me? Or else…" his voice was angry and wobbly. He was already drunk. 

"Yes, sir. I'll be right back." You knew better than to argue with him when he was in that state. Years of dealing with him have taught you that some tactics work better than others when dealing with this type of man, and knowing the right moment and how to act could be crucial for your safety. 

"I surely have angered the gods above." you think. You already have to deal with your father. You don't need another troubled or aggressive man in your life. You clean the house and wait patiently, but the day is ending, and it doesn't seem Billy is leaving. You give up on the idea of meeting Eddie today. You call the arcade, reaching Keith and asking him if you could switch shifts tomorrow, hoping that this helps avoid meeting Billy if he tries to show up again at the arcade.

"I hope you remember that I'm a great friend and tell your friends about it," Keith says, handing over the shift to you. 

"Sure, Sure… now go and enjoy your Sunday," you reply, pushing him out of the door, laughing. 

You have a busy afternoon, but it starts to get empty as the night approaches. Most parents want their kids at home on a Sunday night. You are reading comics to kill time when you hear the door opening. You raise your head and see the red-haired girl. 

She is timid in her approach. She gives you a shy smile. "Hey… I'm Max." she extends a hand. 

You smile warmly at her, shaking her hand and introducing yourself. She seems to get a little more comfortable and even waves at you before heading to the arcade machines after you hand her the coins. You can't help but wonder if she also suffers physical or emotional abuse at home. Your heart aches. She is too young for that. 

It's almost close time; you approach Max, who is still playing Dig Dug. "Are your parents going to pick you up?" you ask. 

"My step-brother should have picked me a while ago. I guess he is too busy on his stupid date and forgot about me. Are you closing?"

"Soon. But you can continue playing; I'll prepare the other things first."

But Max joins you, and you start talking. She tells you about moving from California, how she has a hard time adjusting, and how she is nervous about starting school soon. You notice that she is looking at your comic book. 

"Do you like Wonder Woman?"

"I love it! I had it; this was my favorite edition."

"Had? What happened?"

"My step-brother tore it apart," she whispers. 

Violent behavior? Anger issues? Another red flag. You want to stay as far away from him as possible. But at the same time, it was not fair to leave Max to deal with him alone. 

"Here, take it. It's yours," you hand over the comic book to her. 

"N-No, I can't accept."

"Please? Can you accept a present from a friend?" Max picks it up, smiling. 

You then see Billy's car approaching and signal Max to leave while you pick up the keys to lock the main door of the arcade. You hope he will take Max and go, but you hear his footsteps getting closer, and he yells at Max, "In the car, now! And don't leave!" You turn and see him approaching you with his leather jacket and denim jeans and an excited smile on his face as he closes the distance between you. At first glance, someone could think that he and Eddie look alike, but the difference between them was clear as water for you.  

"Hey, honey. Come here often?" He asks jokingly as he leans towards you, shooting you one of his grins with a wink. His breath smells of beer and weed. You see Max with her head out of the car, looking at you with a worried face. 

"I'm leaving, Hargrove." you try to walk, but he blocks the way. 

"Come with us." it doesn't sound like an offer but like an order. He tries to hold your hand, but you quickly take a step back, trying to stay out of reach. 

"No, honey… Don't do that. I'm good at chasing."

You are jolted back in time to when you were a kid. Eddie is playing basketball with you. This is survival training, as he called it back then. He used the movements of basketball to teach you how to plant your feet so you wouldn't fall if someone charged upon you and how to confuse the other person dribbling away from them. 

You try to remember this now, thinking about trying to elude Billy to cut to the opposite side and hopefully run. You try but fail miserably, as Billy is right there to block you again. 

"This keeps getting interesting! But sorry honey, I'm too good playing basketball to fall for it." you bite your lip, worried that he noticed what you tried to do, and you stand there, immovable, for a moment, holding your breath. 

"All ok here, sweetheart?" Eddie approaches you, casually draping his arm around your shoulder and gesturing with his other hand. 

Your chest seems to relax as soon as you hear his voice and see him, making breathing easier. You can only think that you are safe. Everything will be ok. You look at him as if he is your guardian angel, sending a million thanks to the universe for putting him there at that moment. 

Billy sees you smiling at each other. He notices how you gaze into each other's eyes, how your body language shifts, and you get closer to Eddie, looking for his body warmth. He sees that you are almost in a trance-like state, the expression on your face, and how the connection between you is palpable. Love. This makes him feel pure rage bubbling up inside him. 

"Sorry, Munson, I didn't know she was taken," He turns back to go to his car. 

He gets in the car, seeing you and Eddie hugging and laughing, and his grip tightens on the steering wheel, envy running through his veins, sour and poisonous, consuming him. 

"Let it go, Billy. Let it go." Max pleads. 

"SHUT UP, MAX!" he storms out. "I need to think. I need to plan very carefully what I am doing next," he says while accelerating the car and going away.

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[jacixbliss]

Tacenda

sʏɴᴏᴘsɪs - ʏᴏᴜ ᴀʀᴇ ᴀ ᴄᴏʟʟᴇɢᴇ sᴛᴜᴅᴇɴᴛ ʙᴀʀᴇʟʏ ᴍᴀᴋɪɴɢ ᴛɪᴍᴇ ғᴏʀ ʏᴏᴜʀsᴇʟғ, ᴍᴏsᴛ ɴɪɢʜᴛs ᴀʀᴇ sᴘᴇɴᴛ sᴛᴀʀɪɴɢ ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴇɪʟɪɴɢ ᴡᴏɴᴅᴇʀɪɴɢ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ʟɪғᴇ. sᴜᴅᴅᴇɴʟʏ ʏᴏᴜ ғᴇᴇʟ ʏᴏᴜʀ ʟɪғᴇ ᴄʜᴀɴɢᴇ ʙᴇғᴏʀᴇ ʏᴏᴜʀ ᴇʏᴇs ᴡʜᴇɴ ʏᴏᴜ ʙᴜᴍᴘ ɪɴᴛᴏ ᴀ ᴍᴀɴ ʏᴏᴜ’ᴠᴇ ɴᴇᴠᴇʀ sᴇᴇɴ ʙᴇғᴏʀᴇ. sᴏᴍᴇᴛʜɪɴɢ ᴀʙᴏᴜᴛ ʜɪᴍ ɪs ᴅɪғғᴇʀᴇɴᴛ ᴛʜᴀɴ ʏᴏᴜʀ ɴᴏʀᴍᴀʟ ᴄᴏʟʟᴇɢᴇ ɢᴜʏ. ᴛʜᴇʀᴇ ɪs ᴀ sᴘᴀʀᴋ ɪɴ ʏᴏᴜ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ʜᴀᴠᴇɴ’ᴛ ғᴇʟᴛ ɪɴ ᴀ ᴡʜɪʟᴇ. ᴡʜʏ?

ᴘᴀɪʀɪɴɢ - ʙᴀɴɢ ᴄʜᴀɴ x ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ

⚠️ ᴡᴀʀɴɪɴɢ ⚠️ ᴅᴇᴘʀᴇssɪᴏɴ ɪɴsɪɴᴜᴀᴛᴇᴅ, ᴀɴɢsᴛ, ʀᴇᴘᴇᴛɪᴛɪᴠᴇ ᴛʜᴏᴜɢʜᴛs, ɪɴsᴏᴍɴɪᴀ ɪɴsɪɴᴜᴀᴛᴇᴅ

©️ 2023 jacixbliss All Rights Reserved

Prologue

Beep Beep Beep

Dread, if you could describe the feeling of hearing that alarm every morning it would be dread. Every night you lay your head down against your cold stuff pillow you try for hours to sleep. Hours go by as you toss and turn, staring into the dark abyss that is your room. Some nights you are able to feel your exhaustion kick in and manage to get a few hours of sleep before the alarm goes off. Majority of the time you watch as the lighting shifts from the darkness of the night to the soft glow of the sun coming up to greet everyone.

Groaning into the room you sit up on your bed and stretch your arms up hearing cracks as your body unstiffens from the night before. With a defeated sigh you kick yourself out of your bed and slip your feet into your slippers before standing up fully. On your wall you see the silly cursive writing that says ‘Today will be a great day’. A scoff slips from your lips, the irony of the writing makes you burn in an indescribable way.

Two loud knocks on your bedroom door snaps you back to reality. The call of a honey soaked voice fills your ears from the other side.

“Your name, I order breakfast for us before you head to work!” Your roommate calls out before you hear the footsteps fade down the hallway. With another slow stretch you tread to your door before opening it up, the metal doorknob felt a bit colder than normal.

Today will be a great day

After showering and getting your stuff together for another day of excruciating classes that talk about the same things over and over you find your cheery roommate jumping around the kitchen.

“Good morning Asteria,” you greet with a small wave as you make your way over to the other side of the island and sit down on a chair.

“Mornin’ gorgeous,” Asteria says back as she places a cup of tea in front of you with a plate of colorful fruit. “Ready for tonight?” She questions turning back around to grab her mug of coffee and another plate of fruit and places it on the island facing you.

“Tonight?” You question picking up a blueberry and popping it into your mouth. Feeling the cooling sensation of it bursting open followed by a souriness. Very unpleasant.

“Yes tonight! We have that party at Vernon’s- you know the one you agreed to go to two weeks ago!” Asteria snarks before tossing a blueberry at you. You feel it hit your left cheek causing a soft giggle to leave your lips looking up at your beautiful friend.

Asteria was beautiful, not the typical beautiful where everyone saw it but the unconventional beauty. Her dark skin littered with lighter patches of skin. Her coarse curls framing her face make her freckles bolder than ever. Asteria has vitiligo, not something people see everyday causing people to be off put by her looks at first believing things like she bleached her skin. Regardless Asteria never let the second glances bother her. She has always had males fawning over her left and right that were always turned down with a grumble when they find out she prefers women.

“I can’t go,” you begin with your excuses, feeling her eyes glaring at you as you stare at your tea. “I have too much homework and an exam next week I should study for.”

“No excuses, you promised me.” Asteria whines with a soft thud of her foot. “You are going, end of discussion.” Asteria settles as she finishes up the fruit she was eating.

Today was going to be a great day

[demons2003]

My Boys (Chapter 1)

Description: You grow up with Steve Harrington as well as Eddie Munson. You three were inseparable and didn't go anywhere without the other two. But when high school began you saw that the three of you started to become distant, and cold towards each other almost. Steve gets all of these girls and Eddie becomes the 'Freak' of town. And you? The Queen of Hawkins with a bad attitude. It was an unlikely pairing, but it used to be your whole world. You are forced into being with these two again and old feelings are starting to resurface, but what happens when everything becomes difficult?

Series List

-"Together forever right?" A little Eddie questions as Steve and I put our hands into his. "Together forever!" Steve and I both shout with excitement. "We'll never leave you alone Eddie, we promise," I whisper into his ear and we all pile into a hug. "Then why'd you leave us Y/n?" Eddie whispers to me. "What?" I question stepping back from him. "You left us Y/n. You left as all alone," Steve now joins in. "No no no no no," I whisper, putting my head in my hands as my small body caves in on itself. "You broke your promised!!" They both yell at me before tears fill my eyes. Beep, Beep, Beep, Beep.

Y/n's Pov

I jump awake as my alarm starts going off next to me. I slam my head on it to shut it up. It was a dream. A dream which started as a memory. I think to myself as I climb out of my bed. It had been years since that memory had formed, and fewer years since the promise was broken. But I wasn't the only one to break it and I knew that but for some reason, my brain didn't. I started the slow process of getting ready for school. I hated school. What once used to be something I loved and enjoyed turned into something I wanted to avoid and run away from every day. I still saw the boys there, my boys, but they no longer saw me. I finally grab my piece of toast from the toaster and make my way out the door. The only good thing about school was getting to drive there, and my friends too but I didn't have them just yet. As always, I made my way to Robin's house, which was only next door, as she still couldn't drive herself. Or more, the last time she did, she crashed her car into a parked one.

"Hey lover!" Robin whispers to me as she hops into my car. I smile back at her and lean towards her. "Hey cutie," I smile before giving her a kiss on the cheek. We weren't really dating, well not anymore, but we still loved the little names we gave each other. Plus it confused everyone around us which we loved so much more. "How are you doing this morning?" Robin asks with a worried smile. She was aware that I've had a few nightmares but being next door means there's also a chance that she heard me this morning. "I'm good today, want the day to be over already but like ready to spend it with my people," I finally say after a while, reaching over and giving her hand a squeeze. I love Robin but she doesn't really know about my relationship with Steve and Eddie. It wasn't something many people remember but I at least still did. It was when I felt the safest and the most carefree.

Robin then goes on her rant about a girl in one of her classes who she likes. That was the thing with Robin I always felt sorry for her. If I had a crush on a guy I was able to go straight to him and ask him out if I wanted, but for Robin, she had to spend months or years trying to work out if a girl likes her back and even then she couldn't go out in public in a town like Hawkins. "She's so pretty y/n like I stare too much that I don't even know what's happening in class. What do I do?" Robin asks me as I pull into the school parking lot. I turn my car off and turn towards Robin. "Wanna know what I did when I had a crush like that?" I ask her, knowing that my answer isn't great, but it worked for me. She nods her head at me and I say, "I started to talk to them. Eventually, I could listen to the class and I got to know the person I was talking to," Although it wasn't exactly what I did, it seemed to help Robin feel a little better about the whole thing. "Ok, I'll start with that.....but that will be another day," She whispers before jumping out of my car and running towards the doors. "Hey wait up!!" I yell as I jump out and lock my car before booking it towards the door.

As I open the doors they bang against the walls, causing almost everyone to look at me. I give them all the finger and start walking to my locker hoping that Robin is there as well so I could give her a piece of my mind. As I walk through the halls I notice Steve hovering over Nancy against a locker. I quickly look away sadly and the feeling of jealousy grows in my chest. I hadn't really seen or talked to the boys for too long. I don't know why they stopped talking to me but when they wouldn't talk back I just couldn't be bothered to try to talk to them. But I still couldn't get over my feelings for the boys. It was then that I heard a bang and saw some basketballer pushing Eddie against a locker, him just laughing at something he did. I really missed the boys but I couldn't do anything to fix it. Not without everyone in the school finding out that I knew them and I couldn't do that to them, they'd really have a reason to hate me then.

As I suspected though, Robin was standing at her locker which was located next to mine. "What the hell dude?? You ran off on me!! What was that about?" I whisper yell when I get to my locker. Robin looks away sheepishly and whispers, "I saw the girl I liked and got worried she'd think the wrong thing, I don't know I got worried and in my head! I'm sorry!" She leans over to me and gives me her puppy dog eyes. "Ahhh fine you're forgiven, you know I can't say no to those eyes," I smile before getting my books for my next class. "Now if you'll excuse me, I have a class to get to," I smile sweetly at Robin and walk away to my class. Although I hated school I did enjoy this class as I got to be with Johnathan. We had become friends near the start of our high school life but we don't really hang out in school so this class was one of the only times we get to really hang out, but he didn't seem to be there yet.

I sit in my normal seat, all the way in the back and start to draw in my sketchbook. It helped me to ignore everyone entering the class but as time went on Johnathan didn't come to class, which is weird because he only misses class for work but he lets me know before that happens. When the teacher finally arrives I know that he wasn't going to be here. Maybe he isn't feeling well, but he would've called. As the teacher starts to talk about whatever I start to look around the room, making sure that he isn't here but just sitting in a different seat. But that's when I saw both Steve and Eddie sitting across the room from me and themselves. When were they a part of this class? All of a sudden Eddie seems to turn towards me, almost as if sensing I was staring at him. I quickly turn my head to the front of the room and try my hardest to listen to whatever the teacher is trying to teach us.

At lunch

"Oh, come on, I'm sure he's fine," Robin says on the other side of the table. Since the start of lunch, I'd been asking if Robin had seen Johnathan. Sadly she hadn't which made my nerves worsen. "I mean probably but it isn't like him to just not come to school, not without at least calling to let me know. Maybe I should check on him after school? Just to make sure he's ok?" I ask. Robin gives me a look and says, "If it'll make you feel better maybe you should but why do you care so much about where Johnathan is? Are you interested in him or something?" I laugh and shake my head. "No, no. We're just friends, he helped me when I was going through something. I am just worried about him because he normally lets me know what's going on. And when he doesn't call something is normally wrong or he's going through something," I say to her, hoping she believes me. I wasn't lying to her about it but she had a way of misinterpreting things. And I didn't really feel like having Robin ask me about him every time we are together. I've only liked three people and I don't know if anyone else will come as close as they did. Especially my first 2 loves. "Mmmmm ok," She whispers more to herself than me. It's then that I feel the presence of someone standing behind me, so I turn towards them to find out what they wanted. Slightly hoping that it was Johnathan.

"Hey l/n," Jason Carver says behind me, putting his hand on the back of my chair. I roll my eyes and turn back around to Robin, hoping he'll get the message but still add, "Leave me alone Carver, not interested in what you have to say to me," I feel his hand move to my shoulder and I quickly stand up, my chair scraping on the floor causing everyone to look in our direction. I stare daggers at Jason while he just smiles sweetly at me. "Come on, I didn't even say anything yet," He says to me. "Leave now or you'll find out what happens if you touch me again," I almost growl at him. I hear lots of people whispering to each other about what was happening but I was to focus on what Jason was doing to really hear what they were saying. 

Jason then takes a step towards me, trapping me in between him and the table, making me feel like a caged animal. I hear Robin try to stand but I wave at her to stay where she is, not wanting her to get involved. It would just make it worse for both of us. "Well, why don't you go out with me tonight and we can really find out what happens when I touch you," He smirks at him. Ew, I'm going to be sick. "Or, I have a better idea, I just do this," I bring my knee in between his legs and while he's bent over I punch him in the face causing him to fall to the ground. I hear a bunch more chairs scrape along the ground and look over to see the basketball team and cheerleaders rushing over to him. I quickly turn to Robin and blurt out, "Well, I'm gonna go see Johnathan now before all hell breaks loose. Hurry up and let's go now," I smile before running out of the cafeteria and heading to my locker, hoping Robin is following after me. Maybe wasn't a good idea to punch Jason but god it felt so good to do it.

I open my locker and quickly pack all of my stuff when Robin comes over next to me to do the same thing. "Oh god, that was so funny. But tomorrow may not be so fun for us," Robin laughs at me as we close our locker doors. I laugh with her as we run back to my car. "I mean yeah but it was so worth it," Once we get to my car I unlock it and we hop in before I drive as fast as I can out of the school. "I'll drop you off at your house then I'll head over to Johnathan's, is that ok?" I say and look over to Robin to see her nodding. "Yeah that's ok, but let me know what happened later tonight," I nod my head and drive faster to Robins. I hope you're ok Johnathan. You're starting to worry me a little. 

[mermaidsirennikita]

ARC Review: One Season with the Duke by Addy Du Lac

Out now (and available on Kindle Unlimited)! 4.25/5.

For when you're vibing with... fast physical burns and slow emotional burns, culture clashes, and friends to lovers done right.

With a secret hanging over her head, Hettie has been blackmailed into getting engaged to an asshole. Fortunately, her childhood friend (now Hot and Sizable Duke) Finn, offers a helping a hand... in marriage.

Friends to lovers is a tough sell for me--however, once I realized how much of the friendship in this book was rooted in childhood, I was readier to bite. And I'm glad I did! This is a fun, sweet, surprisingly hot Scottish romance that really focuses hard on the relationship development.

Quick Takes:

--Here's what I dislike about friends to lovers so often: either the hero longs for the heroine but doesn't have the balls to make a move, or the heroine longs for the hero and somehow he Doesn't Notice Her (doesn't get turned on by her) and the heroine is left looking pathetic. In this case, Finn is the one who's very aware of Hettie from the jump. However, she pretty quickly identifies that he's All Grown Up, and he actually makes his move very early in the novel. That, right away, solves a lot of problems for me.

What I expected from there was a marriage in name only, wherein they would, for some reason, wait on fucking for like five billion pages, and I would get increasingly annoyed. But nope! These two are getting down less than a third of the way into the novel, because it makes sense. They're married; the marriage being valid is super important for their general scheme and Hettie's safety; they're not in love (she definitely isn't) but they're physically attracted to each other. Why not?

So it's like, this mixture of duty and genuine interest that brings them together, and I found that compelling. It felt real and pretty authentic to the time period (albeit with the added benefit of them being just five years apart in age and hot). I really appreciated that there wasn't all this handwringing about it from Hettie--no "oh no, I must marry my hot duke friend to escape my evil cousin". She knows she's got a good thing going, and they both are aware that it may never be this dreamy romance (until it is) but they're gonna try and make it work. And a lot of making it work involves the thing they are 100% on the same page about from the get-go: boning the fuck down.

--A lot of the conflict in this book, and I mean this in a good way, felt very old school. There's an evildoer setting out to blackmail Hettie (I personally enjoy a blackmail plot, especially when the heroine is an heiress; there's something about a "MUAHAHAHA" that I just like), obviously. Then there's this stretch in which she's really adjusting to not only being a duchess, but being a Scottish duchess, and I liked the distinction made here. While Finn may be very Englishified in some ways (although he does do a bit of a brogue at the right moments, as all Scottish heroes Must and Should), he is Scottish. His people are Scottish. There is an expectation that his wife will acclimate this, and it's like--not fuckin' easy. I liked that it wasn't easy. In some ways, it felt kind of cinematic while also subverting some of the old school-isms where the heroine goes to Scotland and everyone is all och and aye and just welcomes her with open arms.

In particular, Hettie's mother-in-law does not welcome her with open arms. In many historical romances today, I don't feel like supporting characters who are a) not villains and b) not getting set up for the next book receive much fleshing out. At least, not in the way they used to. But here, we see a woman who is understandably protective of her late husband's legacy, a bit possessive of her son, and......... kind of a bitch to Hettie. However, not a bitch without dimension. She's not flat. There is meat to her character, and there's meat to her relationship development with Hettie. I'm extremely soft for historicals in particular that place an emphasis on female relationships, so that was nice to see.

--You're going to either be frustrated or relieved by the fact that we the readers know Hettie's secret from the start. For some, I suspect this will lead to some "but telll hiiiim", and at points I did feel that way. However, from her emotional perspective, I get why she didn't; and I also personally appreciated knowing her secret from the start. It's not an inconsiderable issue, and I personally find that when a hero or heroine dithers over something we don't even know the truth about... That's where the frustration really comes in.

--We do get a grovel in this one, and it's quite sweet. I can't say much about the grovel because spoilers, but I liked it a lot. There are insane grovels, and there are emotionally sense-making but still deeply felt grovels, and I think this one falls into the latter.

--This book got me to care about two people who are ultimately Good and Solid, in a relationship that is like... not toxic. Which is hard for me! That said, I really like Addy's writing style, and I wouldn't mind seeing her try her hand at a batshit pairing down the road.

--As a random aside, if you like a bit of "she is too young for me and I am a hideous pervert for noticing her ankles" (which I do), there's a dash of that behind why Finn didn't pursue Hettie earlier. She really isn't too young for him by the standards of the time (they're about 5-6 years apart) but he felt very bad for finding her hot when she was eighteen, and I enjoyed that discomfort immensely.

The Sex Stuff:

Like I said, they starting fucking early and they really don't let up. I literally let out a sigh of relief when it began sooner rather than later; I fucking hate the "oh we're married but let's wait until 80% into the book to fuck even though the marriage can literally be invalidated if people find out you're still untouched" dance. Wow, two people thinking with their brains and their libidos!

The sex is well-written and explicit, and like... earthy without being over the top, if that makes sense. I posted that excerpt of Finn commenting on Hettie's scent while he was...................... he's Scottish so down under isn't a joke that makes sense, but he was going down on her. It's the simple intimacies of sex that I found the book did really well. Also, I really liked how they talked about sex with each other--you can feel that there's a friendship there (and he's such a pleaser). And like, there's no shame around Hettie having and enjoying sex without being in love quite yet? That's one thing I appreciated throughout; she cares for him from the start but she knows she's not in love yet... and she's still comfortable with expressing affection for him in a sexual way, and he makes her comfortable with it. There isn't this expectation that being aware of being in love is important for good sex, which I often sense with the writing of heroines. Something that I can't give away happens and Finn is like "maybe no sex for a while" and Hettie's reaction is basically "exfuckingcuse???"

A romantic and emotionally authentic debut, which I think will appeal to many readers--especially those who like historicals that are well-researched and real, without trading in on some of the more problematic aspects of the subgenre. In fact, in general, if you find that historical romances "scare you" a little, I'd say this is a good one to ease your way into the genre with.

Thanks to Addy Du Lac (@thataddylady on here) for a copy of this book! All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[sassycheesecake]

A/N: I don’t know, lack of sleep is making me write angst. I apologize. Got the inspiration from watching 'Puss in Boots : The Last Wish', personal work experience and a story that I played in the game 'MeChat'.

If there’s one thing Kiyoomi Sakusa loathes about his work, it’s the job itself.

The job to take life, wether it be young or old, sick or healthy, man or woman.

He is not an assassin, or a bounty hunter or a hitman.

They can quit their job if they want.

He can’t.

He is always working. 24/7. No vacations or time off since the beginning of time.

Currently, he is standing in the doorway in a hospital room with a blank face, watching a family bid their goodbyes to their father.

End stage of leukemia.

Kiyoomi knows this man has been fighting his disease for a long time.

But the man‘s body is too tired to continue the fight.

Every living being has a glow around them. A warm light of sorts.

Whenever a person or an animal is in the process of passing away, the ravenette sees light sparks leaving the body. Like a fire slowly going out, the last remains of the flame flickering into the dark night.

He hears the faint flatlining of the monitor and the family bursts into tears, it is like déja vu because he has been through this too many times before.

The cries, the grieving, the last sparks leaving the person‘s or the animal‘s body.

Walking to the man‘s body, Kiyoomi lifts his hand and places it on his non-movable thorax.

Feeling the soul of the man, he gently pulls it out of his body, putting it into a vial that he uses for protecting the souls until he arrived back into his dark demension of what he calls home.

Leaving the room without looking back, he arrives back home.

Entering a dark room, some of the souls light up in his presence, almost like single fireflies.

He carefully takes the vial out of his inside pocket, placing it on the shelf on his left side.

Kiyoomi has a place for each soul.

Left is for adults and old people.

The middle is for animals.

And on the right shelf, children.

Lately, Kiyoomi found himself watching over you a lot.

You’re extremely adventurous, loving the excitement and adrenaline that goes through your body.

Whenever you try something knew, Kiyoomi stands close by, watching as you dodge death like a bullet so many times.

Today you’re trying out skateboarding.

Out of all the souls he has seen so far, your soul shines the brightest.

It’s almost like Kiyoomi is drawn to it, sort of like an undefined force.

You roll down the hill with protective gear on your knees and elbows, gaining speed very quickly.

Sitting on the roof of a house, his black orbs observe you like a hawk.

All of sudden, Kiyoomi hears a car coming from the right side of the intersection you’re cruising down on.

You’re not slowing down.

You don’t see the car.

Kiyoomi‘s eyes widen with fear, he jumps down and races towards you.

All that is left to hear, is a screeching of car tires.