#I am the Angst Fairy Godmother

[matchagator]

Clash | jjk (Mature) Ch. 3

Chapter 3 is finally here! I hope you guys enjoy it. I tried updating the tag list but if you are missing on it, just leave me a comment so I can add you next time. Enjoy some long awaited smut. 😈

Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5 | Chapter 6 | Chapter 7 | Chapter 8 | Chapter 9

{Main Pairings:} Jeon Jungkook x Female Reader

{Rating:} 18+

{Genre:} Slice of Life | Neighbors

{Summary:} You're a new resident in your very first apartment excited to enjoy the simple life of adulthood. Unfortunately for you, you continue to run into unruly neighbors no matter how much you try to keep to yourself.

{Warnings:} Mature Language, Enemies to Lovers, Hostility, Mild Angst, Sexual Tension, Banter, Smut, Mild Degradation, Sexual Content, Prank Wars, Unprotected Sex (This list will be updated as each part gets released)

{Tag List:} @erica2283 @i-never-post-but-i-am-here @koobunsblog @jkoma @jjkw-7 @gretesstuff @chimsworldsstuff @rms-expensive-girl @generouschildcolor @moonfaery @coralmusicblaze @roguesthetic @kissyfacekoo @jk97bam @tatamicc @oopscoop @namjoonscrabjuice @joonssidebitch @shaybtsforever @bangtans-momma @itslamia @minayas1998 @chimsworldsstuff @coralmusicblaze @aak22

A long sigh escapes your lips as the small tone of the building keypad grants you access to the main lobby of the complex. You fiddle with your fob as you maneuver your way inside, feeling uncomfortable as you tug down the fabric of your blouse that keeps riding up on your torso. You groan in frustration as the heavy door nicks the skin on your arm while you struggle to balance your work tote, your keys, and your phone. Could this day get any worse?

You gently adjust yourself before strolling down the corridor, reminiscing on all of the things that went wrong earlier that day. Work began as it usually does, running reports and catching up on emails until your clumsy self knocked over the coffee that sat on the edge of your desk. Thankfully, none of your electronics fell victim to the spilled caffeinated beverage, unlike the crisp white blouse you had on that quickly soaked through. It was the most inconvenient start to your day given you had a meeting with your boss not long after.

Lisa came through as your personal fairy godmother, switching your soiled blouse with hers to prevent you from appearing a complete mess in front of your superiors. Unfortunately, you and Lisa weren’t exactly the same size. While her blouse fit you, it was uncomfortably snug and hugged your curves more than you would typically care for. Luckily, it all seemed to work out until you were volunteered by your boss to help the marketing team at a rally downtown, leaving you a sweating mess from the afternoon heat and the crowded streets.

You let another drawn-out sigh seep through the barrier of your lips as your feet drag against the tile floor. Your feet throb in a dull ache from wearing your heels for much more activity than you’re used to compared to sitting in your office. You make the split decision to abandon the task of wearing them upstairs. You slide your feet from the footwear as the sole of your foot meets the chilly sensation of the tile. You moan happily as the pain in your toes relaxes from no longer being constricted within your heels, quickly slipping out of the adjacent shoe as you bend down to pick them up.

The cool feeling soothes the pain as you walk toward the elevators, pressing your elbow against the call button as you balance your heels on your fingertips. As the chime echoes through the lobby, the large luxurious doors open to reveal an empty lift. You smile softly, thankful to be going home after calling various clients and spending most of your afternoon in the sweltering heat. You feel content as you walk into the elevator, not giving a care in the world that you are currently barefoot in the lobby elevator. Typically, you never choose to walk barefoot in such a public area, however, you are nearly home and you don’t really care about anyone’s opinions of you right now.

As the large doors slide close, a hand shoots in between the two structures, causing the chimes of the lift to indicate something is blocking its path. To your horror, none other than Jungkook himself is waiting on the opposite side of the elevator doors, his usual smug smirk stretching across his lips as he fiddles with the piercing between his teeth.

“Well, if it isn’t little miss princess.” His tone is far too chipper, leaving you in an internal panic as you watch him invade the once-tranquil environment of the empty elevator. Of all days to run into your stupidly handsome yet annoying neighbor, of course, it had to be the day you physically look like shit. “You look terrible.” There is a subtle look of sympathy on his lips, his body moist in sweat from what you can only assume was his recent workout at the gym.

You prop your hip out as you cross your arms, still juggling your belongings as you desperately attempt to look calm and collected. “No one asked for your opinion, jackass.” You bite back, completely unamused that you now need to endure his cocky attitude the entire ride up to the seventh floor.

Jungkook simply chuckles mischievously, squeezing by to stand directly beside you as he leans in to whisper closer to your ear. “Just cause you had a shitty day doesn’t mean you have to be a bitch.” He hums contently, moving to stand straight as his large eyes shift over the control panel, making sure the number seven is illuminated.

“Please, what do you know about my day?” You scoff, rolling your eyes in exasperation as you offer him a glare.

Jungkook’s cheeks swell against his eyes as another chuckle escapes his lips, laughing off your comment as if you were telling him some absurd statement. His smile quickly fades as he steps closer toward you, the proximity suffocating you under his stature as the doors trap you inside the small space with the bane of your existence. “I knew the moment I walked into the elevator that you aren't wearing your own clothes, you’ve been out in the heat all day, and you’re not really that upset to see me.”

Your jaw drops open as he so perfectly identifies every flaw of your day, leaving you frozen and perplexed. “…and what makes you say that?” You offer in defense, narrowing your eyes as you refuse to crack under the pressure he’s applying, feeling your cheeks heat up from his obnoxious confidence.

His eyes bore into yours as he steps close, causing you to step back until you press against the wall of the elevator. Jungkook’s pupils shift down to your chest, observing how the buttons of your blouse are gently stretched apart just enough to expose the indiscretion in sizing as he notices the way the fabric hugs your chest, deliciously outlining whatever mounds were hidden beneath. “Your shirt’s too tight.” He speaks bluntly, causing you to gasp at the audacity. He did not say your shirt was too tight. Of course, you knew it was, but how dare he call that out.

You move your hands to cover your chest as he flicks his gaze up to your cheeks, noticing the rosy pigmentation of your skin. Before you can protest, he speaks again. “You have a sunburn on your cheeks.” He states plainly, watching you squirm beneath his stare as the elevator begins to ascend.

How is he able to notice all of these minuscule details about you? Clearly, he is far more invested in you than he cares to admit. You step forward bravely, knowing he couldn’t possibly know that part of you was secretly glad to see him. While you didn’t want to admit it, the man drew you in like a moth to a flame. “And what about me not being upset to see you?” You offer sarcastically, thinking he had nothing to offer for that explanation.

His eyes darken at your question, his tongue poking against the inside of his cheek as the corner of his mouth pulls into a large smirk. He practically purrs at your inquiry, stepping back in victory as he turns to face the elevator doors once again. “That one was just a guess.” He admits, feeling accomplished that he was able to get you to subconsciously admit that you are indeed happy to see him.

You feel a cold wave wash over you, embarrassment crawling over your features as you smack your tongue against the roof of your mouth. “Shut up.”

Jungkook simply shrugs, “Not my fault you’re predictable.”

“You know what, smartass?” You hiss as you shove your belongings forward into his arms. Jungkook turns to face you in shock as his tattooed arm wraps around your bag and belongings, desperately trying to balance the attack of items being shoved his way. Your hands latch across the buttons of your blouse as you quickly tug at the fabric, watching as the buttons easily pull apart to reveal your bare torso. Beneath was nothing more than a nude-colored bralette covering your chest. “This shirt is too tight. Thanks for pointing that out.” You continue growling through your teeth, feeling overwhelmed in vexation as you pull the fabric off of your shoulders.

Jungkook’s eyes widen at the sight of your upper half practically on display for his enjoyment, feeling his mouth run dry at the fact that your bralette leaves him with little to the imagination. You feel a swell of pride as he gawks at you in silence, completely stunned that you just stripped out of your shirt in the apartment elevator.

You ball up the blouse before shoving it into his hands while you retrieve your bag and belongings. “Enjoy the view.” Jungkook stands with his large doe eyes like he was caught in headlights as he holds onto your blouse, still processing the fact that your torso is nearly naked in front of him. He takes in a sharp breath, feeling overwhelmed at the sight as heat rushes down to his groin. He always knew you were attractive, but this new scandalous view has him nearly foaming at the mouth.

You’re saved by the chime of the elevator as the doors open to reveal your apartment door just feet beyond the threshold. You barely glance back at him as you march out of the elevator, fiddling with your keys as you approach your door. You feel your heart thundering within your chest, your features flushing red at the reality that you just stripped in front of Jungkook without a care in the world. It was completely out of character for you, yet that man just drives you to the brink of insanity.

You hear footsteps stumbling forward out of the elevator behind you, quickly opening your door to run inside and hide away from your foolish choices. You walk in, slamming your door shut behind you as you quickly lock the mechanism to avoid any more conversations with Jungkook. What the hell was that? Why would you do something so stupid? You drop your bag on the ground as you drag your fingertips through your hair, tugging against the roots gently in frustration as you let out a groan. That’s it. If Jungkook was constantly going to one-up you, it’s time for you to get your revenge with more pranks of your own.

Outside your apartment door, Jungkook stands quietly in the hallway, processing the most recent events. He stares at your apartment door before looking down at the blouse in his hands. His mind races, feeling himself hardening at the thought of your body with even less clothing than the view you graced him with. He lets out a large sigh before moving toward his apartment, stopping to hang the blouse against your door handle before running his hand through his still-damp strands from his trip to the gym. “Damn, Y/N.” He whispers to himself, shaking his head to avoid any more immoral thoughts.

—

Another day closer to the weekend leaves you hopeful for any kind of plans with your friends to escape your apartment to socialize. While your job constantly has you answering phone calls and assisting guests, you crave an evening with your friends to catch up on the latest gossip without tending to anyone else’s needs.

You shuffle your feet across your apartment floor as you lazily make your way toward your balcony that overlooks the center courtyard of your complex. You’re holding a cup of coffee in one hand and your favorite book in the other, deciding some time outside might help you relax while soaking in some much-needed vitamin D.

Your hands gently pry open the blinds that run across the sliding glass door as you gently tug open the heavy door leading to your balcony. You have a small egg-shaped wicker chair tucked in the corner of the space with a small glass side table beside it. It’s the perfect little nook for you to relax and catch up on some reading before getting ready for your last day of work tomorrow before the long-awaited weekend. You maneuver yourself outside, shutting the door before making yourself comfortable against the cushions of the large chair.

It doesn’t take too long before your legs tuck to your chest, nestling yourself into the rounded chair as you take a sip of the hot caffeinated beverage. You place your mug onto the small table, opening your book to find the small bookmark tucked within the pages. You sigh happily as the warmth of the evening sun kisses your skin even with a calm cool breeze swirling around you to keep you comfortable.

You lean back as you brush your fingers along the crisp pages of your book, letting your eyes scan the words on the page. You grin as your mind flashes with vivid images of the story, your imagination painting the characters as you become engulfed in your reading. You occasionally break your eye contact with the page as you grab your mug, sipping away as your muscles begin to relax.

What you don’t notice is that just beyond the threshold of your balcony, Jungkook stood peering out of his apartment blinds to see you sitting innocently outside. He hasn’t seen you since your moment in the elevator, his mind recalling the luscious sight of your torso scandalously displayed for his indulgence. For the first time, you managed to get the best of him, leaving him speechless and aroused. Now that you were sitting casually outdoors enjoying your book, he figures it’s another perfect opportunity to get on your nerves.

You hear a small click noise as you peek up from the pages, glancing over to the right to see Jungkook’s balcony door suddenly slide open. You sigh with a small groan as he appears, his body decorated in an oversized black t-shirt and simple pair of shorts. Despite the excess fabric covering his frame, you can still see his muscular arms through the sleeves with his tattoos wonderfully displayed as he moves to take a seat on the small sofa he has on his balcony.

He sits down with a plop, by no means moving about the space quietly. You can’t help but roll your eyes at his unwelcomed company. His overgrown mullet is tied back into a man-bun which only draws attention to his defined jawline. You tuck your bottom lip between your teeth as you subconsciously check him out, completely dumbfounded by how handsome he truly was when he wasn’t being an annoying ass.

His large eyes shoot up in your direction as you quickly avert your gaze back onto the page, maintaining your composure as you fight the urge to glance back at him. For once he isn’t doing anything to annoy you or prank you as he sits still looking out over the courtyard. Below, there is a group of people utilizing the community barbecue grill by the pool, the mouthwatering aromas they’re cooking wafting up toward your apartments as it causes your stomach to grumble.

You pause for a moment, contemplating your dinner choices before peering back up to see Jungkook is messing with his phone, clearly avoiding you and engaging with the device. He hasn’t spoken a word to you since he sat down, stunning you at the mere fact that you were both co-existing without going at each other. You smile at the tranquility, hoping that for once, you would be able to enjoy your time around Jungkook without the growing desire to either smack the shit out of him or kiss him until he shuts up.

Just as your mind processes the abnormally peaceful interaction, you suddenly hear music being blasted loudly from Jungkook’s phone. Your smile disappears rapidly as you glance over the top edge of your book, noticing Jungkook leaning back with his arms outstretched behind his head. You wait a moment, realizing that his phone is placed on his thigh with clearly no intention of turning it off or lowering the music. You blink before using your finger to keep your page as you shut your book, offering your neighbor a look of exasperation.

“Do you mind?” Your tone is harsher than you intend, most likely caused by the rapidly fleeting patience you have remaining.

Jungkook is resting back with his eyes closed, his head sitting comfortably on his arms as he leans in the chair while his legs are spread out sinfully. He opens one eye, glancing at you unapologetically as he brings a hand to cup around his ear. “What? I can’t hear you.” He speaks simply, talking over the music as if he didn’t really know what you said.

You slam your book down against your upper thigh, resting it in your lap as you smack your lips in annoyance. “Turn it down.” You hiss, making sure he knew it was a demand, not a request.

Jungkook simply grins mischievously as he drops his arms from behind his head, resting his elbows against his knees. “Turn it up? You got it.” A smug smirk stretches across his lips as he presses the side button on his phone, listening as the music intensifies. “Great song, huh Princess?” He adds, amusement glimmering behind his pupils.

You feel the tension return to your limbs as you ignore Jungkook, opening your book once again before attempting to ignore him, refusing to show that he is successfully getting to you once again. At first, you find it easy to muffle out the loud music, narrowing your eyes to focus on the text printed on the pages until you hear Jungkook’s voice loudly start to sing along to the tune.

His voice is surprisingly good, his tone smooth and rich as he effortlessly sings along with the song. You find yourself momentarily entranced by the sound, even though Jungkook intends to annoy you versus impress you. You ignore him, focusing on your story as he continues attempting to get some sort of reaction out of you.

It isn’t until he changes the song to a more upbeat and musically complex beat that the rhythm begins distracting you, making it increasingly more challenging to tone him out. On top of it all, he starts singing along in a playful manner, dancing and moving around to the beat as if he was completely alone out here. You desperately try to bite back making another comment about turning the music down until you hear Jungkook begin to slam his hands down onto his table to drum along to the music.

You slam your book shut as you stand up, your patience officially snapping as Jungkook insists on getting louder and louder. You have half a mind to chew him out and yell at him for being such an ass, yet you decide to simply grab your mug and head back inside.

Just as you do, Jungkook looks at you with his arms stretched out, disappointed to see you retreat back inside. “What’s wrong, Y/N? Leaving already?” He teases, hoping you turn around and give him the reaction he was looking for. It takes every ounce of you to ignore him, simply pushing open your sliding glass door before quickly disappearing inside. You make quick work of locking your door and shutting your blinds, hearing the distant hum of his music as you move away from the balcony.

You sigh, feeling once again defeated by Jungkook. You had enough of his noisy self, officially coming to the decision that if he insists on being loud, you will file a complaint in hopes that will shut him up. You move to place your mug back into the kitchen sink, wondering what you could possibly do now to enjoy your night and relax before another day of work.

You decide on taking a much-needed shower, hoping that the warmth of the water will help soothe the tension that constantly seems to plague your body. As you strip down and turn on the showerhead, you stand beneath the running water, instantly soothed by the heat. You focus on lathering your body wash and cleaning off your body, not noticing that you unconsciously began to hum the song that Jungkook played outside, swaying your hips slightly as the melody whirls through your mind.

As you rinse your hair beneath the water, you catch yourself thinking about Jungkook’s voice singing along, groaning at the fact that you were still thinking about him even though you were trying to ignore him. You sigh, shaking yourself of the song as you try to focus on anything other than Jeon Jungkook.

—

The roar of Jungkook’s BMW echoes throughout the parking garage as he leans back in the driver's seat, ready to take on another evening shift at work. He glances down a few parking spots until his pupils settle on your Jeep, skillfully parked backward for an easy pullout. The sight of your SUV has his mind reeling, thoughts of your body and smile plaguing his mind as he turns his attention back onto his gearshift.

Since your arrival, Jungkook has only been able to admire your physique while dealing with your bratty tendencies. The nickname princess so easily fit someone who was quick to jump to conclusions and seemed to act like she was better than everyone else. Now, you both purposefully tried to get on each other's nerves, Jungkook taking immense pleasure in watching you scramble before him each time he successfully gets to you.

He shakes you from his thoughts as his large fingers twist the dial of his sound system, his playlist blasting through the speakers as he cautiously pulls out from his parking spot. He passes your car slowly, checking every detail of your Jeep as if expecting to see you tucked inside of it, grinning as he finally speeds off towards the exit of the multi-leveled parking unit.

His music serves as a great distraction from the moderately lengthy drive, sitting back as his tattooed arm is stretched out to grip his steering wheel. Jungkook begins to hum along to the music sounding from his speakers as the sound of a car horn blares in two short bursts. His large doe eyes quickly latch onto his rearview mirror, studying his surroundings. He notices the car behind him is at a reasonable distance from his bumper. There is no logical reason why someone would honk at him of all people.

As the song shifts to something more upbeat, he moves his hand to turn up the volume, focusing his eyes once again on the road ahead. It isn’t until he pulls onto the interstate that more drivers sound their horns, leaving Jungkook utterly confused. He returns his attention to his mirrors, seeing cars on either side of him cruising around the same speed as him. They shouldn’t be honking at him, especially given the fact that he was already going over the speed limit.

Jungkook drives over toward the rightmost lane, letting off on the acceleration of the BMW as he gently starts following the car in front of him. A few cars pass blaring their horns, causing his features to scrunch in confusion. “What the hell?” He grumbles under his breath, annoyed by their persistence. “Impatient asswipes.” He groans, moving back into the center lane as he continues on his drive.

The remainder of the journey to work has a couple more cars honking which only stirs Jungkook’s growing irritation. He sighs in relief as he pulls into his place of work, admiring the way the colorful rays of the sunset seem to paint the sky behind the large buildings.

The hum of his BMW stills as he pulls into the parking garage, quickly searching out the location of his designated parking spot. It doesn’t take him long to park and turn off his ignition, letting out a loud huff of frustration after the impatience he experienced while on his drive. “Is it a fucking full moon tonight?” He scoffs to himself as he pulls open his door.

What Jungkook doesn’t notice is that one of his coworkers is also pulling in, rolling his window down to greet him. “Sup, Jeon.” The man offers with a friendly smile on his face. Jungkook is quick to realize that it is his teammate, Han, who often shared the same hours as he did.

Jungkook nods in his direction to acknowledge him before seeing Han’s eyes widen at the sight of his car. Han slows down until his car is stopped directly behind Jungkook’s, unable to hold back his laughter. “Damn, Jeon.” Han hollers, chuckling in wild amusement as he observes the back of his BMW. “Someone did you dirty.”

Jungkook’s eyebrows instantly pinch together as he tosses his work bag over one shoulder. “What the hell are you talking about?” Jungkook takes a few steps toward Han’s car as he pushes the driver’s side door shut. Han gestures toward the back of Jungkook’s vehicle, pointing a finger down toward his rear bumper. Jungkook quickly makes his way around the car, his eyes noticing a white bumper sticker slapped across the back with the words, I have a small dick, honk for me displayed in bold print.

Jungkook’s face goes pale at the connection between all of the impatient drivers honking at him and the bumper sticker proudly displayed on the back of his car. Han continues to gasp between breaths as he keeps laughing, watching Jungkook’s features morph into pure vexation. “That fucking bitch.” He snarls, hissing between his teeth as Han waves him off to continue toward his parking spot. Jungkook quickly walks over to his car, peeling off the offending piece of vinyl before angrily crumpling it up between his fingertips.

His large eyes scan his surroundings, locating a trash bin tucked toward the stairwell of the parking garage. He takes powerful strides until he’s standing just beside it, throwing the sticker away as his body fumes with wrath and embarrassment. How long has that sticker been on his car? This is why all of those drivers honked at him on the way to work. Who knows how many people noticed it?

“Oh, you’re asking for it, Y/n.” He hisses as he turns back, pressing his key fob as the tail lights of his BMW flash to indicate they are now successfully locked. He rolls his eyes as his fingers claw around the strap of his bag, pressing the tip of his tongue against the inside of his cheek as he avoids the bubbling anger threatening to boil over.

—

Jungkook’s drive home from his overnight shift allowed the reminders of your recent prank to fester in his heart as he tightly grips his steering wheel. He knew he’d need to come up with something else to get you back, ready to move past the simple harmless pranks into something far more embarrassing for you. He let out a large sigh as his BMW pulls into the parking garage of your complex, his large doe eyes instantly finding your jeep parked right where you left it.

“I swear, Y/n. You better watch out.” He groans as a mischievous smile pulls at the corner of his mouth. He notices an empty spot beside you, utilizing the space to purposefully pull in.

Jungkook maneuvers the gear shift into park as he let his head fall back against his seat. His mind wanders between thoughts of you and his frustration, knowing a trip to the gym would most likely take off some of the edge. He shuts off the ignition, opening the door as he drags himself from the driver's seat, sighing as exhaustion sets in.

He tries to focus on anything other than thoughts of you, walking quickly to get inside and get a shower. He taps his fob against the sensor, entering the building as he heads for the mailroom with his work bag draped over his shoulder. He follows the lavish corridor until he reaches the mailroom, moving swiftly to retrieve the mail from his box. He finds the small silver key that is looped around his carabiner hook, turning it to unlock the metal box as he pulls out a few pieces of mail.

He quickly sifts through it, passing multiple pieces of advertisement before stumbling across a white envelope with the apartment complex’s logo printed on the top left corner. He pauses on the parcel, examining it closely before tucking the rest of his mail underneath his arm so that he can open the mysterious envelope. Why would he have a letter from the complex? He wasn’t up to renew anytime soon.

Jungkook wiggles his index finger into the corner of the envelope, pulling up as the frail paper tears at the seam to allow him access to the letter inside. He swiftly pulls out a folded piece of printer paper, unfolding it to see his name and address listed at the top along with a few paragraphs. His eyes narrow as he skims the text, his muscles becoming tense as he reads the words.

Noise complaint

Jungkook rereads the two words as he skims the remainder of the letter, stunned to find the written warning that came along with it. He instantly thinks of you, feeling his anger return as it continues to grow into an insatiable fury. He crumples the paper within his grasp, balling his fingers into a fist as he punches it across his mailbox. “That’s it!” His voice threatens to resonate as a yell as he slams the mailbox door shut, twisting his key to lock the compartment.

He practically storms out of the mailroom, deciding to take the stairs up to the seventh floor to blow off some steam. While he originally planned to go to the gym to work off some anger, he instead fully intends on giving you a piece of his mind.

—

The weekend has finally commenced as you sit back into the egg-shaped chair that decorates your balcony, sipping on a glass of wine as you casually scroll through your phone. You let out a content breath as you sink into the oddly shaped cushions beneath you, your eyes scanning every word on your phone’s display screen. It’s the first real opportunity you have this week to catch up on your social media posts, seeing all of the new occurrences in the lives of the people you know.

You bring your glass to your lips as you scroll through a post of memes, giggling softly to yourself as the sweet burn of your wine slides down your throat. You smile as your finger swipes up to the next post, seeing one of Roxanne’s pictures of her weekend rendezvous with the clubs downtown. You roll your eyes as you study her promiscuous attire and the man draped around her waist.

The tip of your tongue clicks against the roof of your mouth as you shake your head, a small part of you wishing you were out enjoying yourself while the other relishes the much needed relaxation.

You slowly bring the glass of wine back to your lips to indulge in another taste as you hear the sound of a sliding glass door being forcefully pushed open resonating from the neighboring balcony. The sound is abrupt as the glass panels rustle against the tracks, causing you to bring your phone down as you lean forward to peek over toward Jungkook’s balcony.

To your surprise, you find Jungkook stomping his way out onto his balcony with a clear look of irritation plastered across his features. His jaw is tight as he clenches his teeth together, his hand grips around a piece of crumpled paper as he waves it about passionately.

Jungkook’s long hair is damp with moisture, evidence of the fact that he must have recently come out of the shower. He has a plain white t-shirt concealing his muscular frame beneath the loose fabric and a pair of sweatpants hanging from his hips. While part of you capitalizes on the opportunity to check him out, you also realize just how outraged he appears, feeling a shiver course down your spine as he approaches the railings between his balcony and yours.

“Care to explain this shit?” Jungkook hisses, tossing the piece of paper from his hands as the wind carries it to your balcony. You blink in surprise, stretching your arm out to place your wine glass on the small table while you stand from your position. You quickly catch the parchment before it is blown from your terrace, tucking your phone into the back pocket of your jean shorts as you unfold it to study the text.

You quickly realize that the piece of paper is a warning from your apartment complex in regard to the noise complaint your filed about Jungkook’s consistent disregard for his neighbors. You peer up at him, surprised to see him so angry about something that was well warranted. “You’re loud as shit.” You bark back, crossing your arms as you challenge his stare. His hands are gripping the railing as he leaned into his stance, staring at you as if an animal stalking its prey. “Someone had to put you in your place.” You offer with a sarcastic smile.

The way Jungkook’s eyes flash with vexation causes your stance to falter, realizing that you have never seen this type of intensity from him since you moved here. This was the first time that you successfully pissed him off.

“I’ve lived here for three years without one mark on my record.” He continues, a clear growl present in his tone as he threateningly leans into the rail to get closer to you. “I didn’t realize you were such a sensitive little bitch, Karen.” Jungkook barks with clear mockery in his tone, sending you into your own blind rage. Who the hell did he think he is? Your jaw drops open from his accusation. He was the one that insisted on being a noisy neighbor. It wasn’t your fault that you finally stood up for yourself since he refused to listen to you the numerous times you complained about the noise. Now he was calling you a Karen? Absolutely not.

“I don’t have to listen to this.” You spit back, turning to pull open your patio door as you move to retrieve your wine glass from the table.

Jungkook’s eyebrows pinch together as he watches you deliberately choose to avoid his confrontation, determined to continue giving you a piece of his mind. “I’m not done.” He growls, pushing up on his hands as his legs bend up to place his foot on top of the rail. He smoothly pulls himself up so that he’s crawling over the gap between the two platforms, causing you to gasp in shock as he animalistically makes his way onto your rented property.

“Jungkook, what the hell?” You complain, watching as he successfully makes his way onto your balcony, forcing you to listen to him. You don’t give him an opportunity to speak as you rush inside, Jungkook holding out his arms to block you from shutting the glass panel door.

You let out a frustrated groan as you turn to start walking through your living room, tilting your head back as you down the remainder of your wine. The sting of the alcohol burns your throat as you accommodate the large intake, your face squinting together as you gulp it back. Jungkook takes your momentary defeat as his invitation to follow you inside, annoyed that yet again you’re walking away from him.

“Anyone could’ve filed that complaint.” You offer, hoping to de-escalate the situation as you continue to make your way toward your kitchen. “So stop being a baby and deal with it.”

Jungkook huffs in amusement as he stalks behind you, finding your words comical. “Oh please.” He laughs, his eyes following you with laser focus. “You can’t even handle pranks without whining like a spoiled brat.”

Once you’re in the archway leading from the living room hallway into the kitchen, you stop in your tracks, turning around to glare directly at Jungkook, completely unfazed that he continues to step closer until you’re practically hovering inches from each other’s faces.

“Shut up.” You argue back, feeling the tension between the pair of you grow. You blink from the close proximity, forgetting that your neighbor invited himself into your apartment just to continue degrading your character. You refuse to back down, knowing the minute you pull away from him, he would take it as a victory.

Jungkook simply looks you up and down as the corners of his mouth stretch into a malicious grin. He leans forward so that his breath ghosts against your cheek, towering over you to force you into submission. “Bet that’s why your ex dumped you huh, princess?” He teases, his venomous intension stings as your heart lurches with memories of your past relationship. You recall your friends mentioning your ex during what was supposed to be your girl’s night. Jungkook must have picked up on your reluctance to comment much about it, spurring on this sudden rude attack. “Too much of a prissy brat?”

“How dare you!” Your patience has worn out as you press your palms into his chest, pushing him back as you take out your frustration on his toned frame. “You don’t know anything about me.” You continue on, feeling your body tremble from the wrath coursing through your veins. “You’re nothing but a narcissistic deadbeat.”

Jungkook reaches his boiling point as your insult bruises his pride. You have no idea how much he does for others not only in his personal life, but at his job. He constantly puts others before himself and works long hours to do so. When he’s free from work, he spends his time at the gym and with his close friends keeping busy. You don’t know shit about him yet here you are, accusing him of false accusations just as he is with you.

The toxic exchange leaves you both glaring at each other as you become a pit of anger and sexual tension. You desperately hold your ground, refusing to budge an inch as Jungkook takes another threatening step toward you, his nostrils flaring from his irritation. “Shut your damn mouth before I put you in your place.”

You narrow your eyes as you watch his irises darken, feeling another chill shoot up your spine as you step closer, your chest pressing against him as you practically hiss in his face. “Make me.”

Before you can even wrap your mind around the situation, you feel a large hand spread across the span of your back as Jungkook pulls you into him, crashing his lips against yours. You gasp as your senses are overwhelmed with a hint of mint as Jungkook’s tongue bullies through the seam of your lips, invading your mouth as he greedily steals a taste of you. Your palms quickly press against his chest from his assault, your mind rapidly plummeting into oblivion as you relish in his warmth.

While his actions take you by surprise, you equally remember that this is Jeon Jungkook kissing you, your annoying neighbor. You push against his chest, twisting your head to the side as you try to escape his kiss. “What the fuck?” You hopelessly try to catch your breath as you turn to move into your kitchen, walking to the refrigerator to get yourself a bottle of water to help quench the building heat that’s simmering through your body.

You fight the part of you that didn’t want the moment to end, helplessly craving to let Jungkook ravage you and give into the sexual tension you felt since the moment you met him. Unfortunately, your anger is still spilling over, causing you to scoff at his actions. “You know what, you…” you try to retaliate as you pull open the refrigerator door, watching as Jungkook’s hand prevents you from opening it as he pushes against it.

“I said, shut your damn mouth, Y/N.” His guttural voice causes you to submit as his hands latch against your hips, twisting your frame around to trap you between himself and the appliance. You shut your eyes for a moment as he presses your back into the refrigerator, leaning in to steal another soul-sucking kiss.

The moment his lips meet yours once again, you feel your body submit to your desires, wrapping your arms around his neck as you return the same intensity, your bodies becoming a blur of tongue and cheek. Jungkook’s large hands travel up and down your sides as he continues pushing you back, your bodies clinging to each other as your limbs tussle the collection of refrigerator magnets you’ve acquired over the years, knocking a few off onto the ground.

Part of you longs to break apart from Jungkook to give him a piece of your mind, however, his kiss poisons you as you fall for the idea of letting him ravage you. You know you’re attracted to him, yet you never thought the sentiments were shared as you both claw and paw at each other’s clothes as your mind swirls into oblivion. The cold sensation of his lip piercing is a pleasant juxtaposition to the warmth of his lips.

You push back on his chest, breaking apart from your heated makeout as you gasp for air, feeling lightheaded. Jungkook equally pants for breath as he presses his forehead against yours, his eyes baring into you as if he’s hunting you down for the taking. Your body ignites with need, a dull pulsing between your legs exposes your arousal.

“Got any honks today?” Your voice is breathy as you attempt to throw in one more blow to his pride, watching his stare darken and intensify as the memory floods back. Jungkook scoffs, sliding a hand up from your waist until he’s gripping your chin between his strong fingers, moving your head up to stare directly into his pupils.

“It’s anything but small, princess.” He growls softly, leaning forward to grab ahold of your bottom lip between his teeth as he gently gnaws against your flesh. He presses his hips forward, the fabric of his sweatpants doing little to shield your thigh from the probing of his hard length.

You gasp, feeling your throat run dry as your body swelters in need. You gulp back your arousal, forcing your eyes shut as you try to avoid the handsome man manipulating you as if you are a marionette, pulling your strings as your body reacts for him instinctually. “I’m not impressed.” You lie, knowing your comment will only spur him on more as you persist in attempting to annoy him further.

Jungkook grinds his hips forward, causing you to shudder beneath his ministrations as the friction causes your imagination to sinfully picture what he’d feel like inside of you. He drops his hands to your ass, grabbing at the plump flesh as he lifts you up, guiding your legs to wrap around his hips. He takes a few steps toward the counter adjacent to the refrigerator, plopping you down on top with complete disregard for the small appliance being shoved back toward the backsplash.

“Stop being a brat and come here.” He hisses as he tugs your hips forward to tetter your bottom on the edge of the counter. His fingers dig beneath the waistband of your jeans as his fingers make quick work to unfasten the button and zipper, shimming the fabric down alongside your neutral-toned underwear. You willingly allow him access as your hands work to pull the oversized white t-shirt over his head, tossing the material to the side haphazardly as your fingers paw at his toned abdomen.

Jungkook slides his hands back up your torso before he pulls down his sweatpants and boxers to expose his strained dick, erect and angry for attention. Your eyes widen at the sight of it, realizing that you were completely false in your assumptions. It was far from small and your mind craved to feel him slide inside of you. It was a good thing that you were on birth control because the moment your surprise is exposed to Jungkook, he presses forward to wrap a hand behind your head, pulling your lips back to his as he savagely kisses you.

He pulls back just enough to stare at you once more as he aligns the tip of his cock to the center of your dripping vagina, his pride swelling at the manner in which your body is ready to accept him. “Now say sorry before I make you scream.” He threatens, your stubbornness causing you to bite your tongue in refusal.

“As if you could.” You bark back, completely stunned when Jungkook pulls your hips forward to impale you on his cock. You let out a small whine, tossing your head back against the cupboards as Jungkook thrusts his dick into your needy pussy. You fight back the moan that threatens to escape the barrier of your lips as you cling to his toned shoulders, your eyes drinking in the sight of his chiseled waist hammering forward as he pumps his dick in and out.

“Ah, fuck!” You finally moan, unable to keep quiet as each thrust sends a pleasurable shudder through your body as he fucks deeper into you, the tip of his cock hitting your cervix.

Jungkook’s eyes roll back at the sensation of your walls sliding against his member, leaving him huffing as your pussy strangles him for all his worth. “You’re so fucking tight.” He groans as he dips his head forward to feather kisses down the length of your jaw to your neck. He meticulously suckles at your skin, hoping to leave his love bite painted across your skin as his fingers grip your sides, threatening to leave bruises.

You can’t help but moan each time his length assaults your center as your legs tighten around his waist to help guide him deeper into you.

Your fingers claw at his back as the cabinet door rustles behind you from the impact of your body getting jolted into it, desperately reaching out toward the refrigerator to help steady you against the edge of the counter.

Jungkook swiftly moves his hands up your waist till he finds your breast, slipping his hands beneath the cups of your bra and squeezing the flesh within his hands. “Damn, Y/N.” He groans once more, feeling overwhelmed by the memory of you stripping in the elevator just to prove a point to him. Since that day, he’s imagined what your body looks like naked, and he fully intends on utilizing the opportunity.

He grips the fabric of your shirt, tugging at the seams as it splits down the center to reveal the bra you have perking up your breasts for ample viewing. You gasp at the tearing of your shirt, thankful to have worn something plain and unsentimental as Jungkook savagely rips through. He wastes no time finding the clasp of your bra, skillfully unfastening it with one hand while the other helps keep you steady on the counter.

As your bra falls away from your chest, you watch Jungkook’s eyes widen at the sight of your hardened nipples. He runs his tongue against his bottom lip before leaning his head forward to capture one of your nipples within his mouth. You sigh as the chilled texture of his lip piercing grazes the pert bud, your mouth hanging open as he swirls his tongue around it and continues fucking himself into you.

You feel your core tighten around his cock as he continues stimulating every sensitive part of your body, moving a hand up to your free nipple to pinch it gently between his thumb and pointer finger. As if you couldn’t handle any more stimulation, Jungkook’s free hand slides down to your sensitive clit, rubbing quick circles as he coaxes you to meet your undoing.

Your orgasm hits you like waves crashing against the shore, your body shuddering in ecstasy as you scream out his praise. Jungkook releases his grip on your nipple to hold your body from sliding off the counter. He pops his mouth off of your sweet bud, slowing the motions of his hips and fingers as he pries your legs off from around his waist.

Your legs fall limply to the ground as Jungkook’s strong grip rotates you to press your stomach into the counter, refusing to let this be the end of his treatment. “I can’t make you scream, my ass.” He groans as he pushes his dick back inside of you, your hands clawing at the counter space as you’re jostled forward.

The friction of him fucking back into you causes you to moan from the overstimulation, feeling completely full as he pounds against your cervix. You feel a sudden sharp sting across your backside causing you to yelp in surprise. Jungkook groans happily at the sight of your ass jiggling against his slap, causing him to quicken the pace of his hips. You arch your back as you toss your head back, stunned to find your body building itself back up.

Jungkook slides a hand up your spine before digging his fingers into your hair, grabbing a handful close to the root as he gently pulls back. You moan at his ministrations, feeling yourself come undone again as Jungkook has his way with you in the middle of your kitchen.

“Fuck, Y/n. I’m gonna cum.” He groans, feeling the pressure build at his tip as he shoots hot ropes of his cum into your welcoming pussy. Your vision goes white in rapture as you climax a second time, your body going limp against the counter as you feel his seed spill down your thigh. “Don’t move, princess.” Jungkook coos as he quickly retrieves some paper towels from the holder beside you, cleaning himself off before offering you one.

While you clean up, Jungkook pulls his clothing back on as your kitchen is filled with an awkward deafening silence. The animosity that once radiated from the pair of you simmers as you cope with the reality that you both just banged inside your apartment. You collect yourself as you get dressed, noticing that Jungkook is carefully watching you as if he’s still admiring your body before you conceal it beneath your clothing.

“I…I should get going.” He finally speaks, motioning toward the balcony as he starts to walk back down the hallway toward your living room.

You button your jeans as you follow behind him, “Yeah, good idea.” You respond weakly, tired, and blissed out from your two orgasms. Jungkook offers you a gentle look before he pulls open the balcony door, wasting no time to skillfully climb over the railings back to his apartment. You watch in amazement, your mind observing the way his muscles flex with each move, recalling how it felt when he was fucking you silly.

You both offer each other a final awkward stare before disappearing into your respective apartments. You pull your door shut, swiftly closing the blinds alongside it to hide from view as you let out the breath you must have been holding in. “Shit.” You sigh as you press your back into the section of the wall directly beside your patio door, wrapping your brain around the events that just unfolded.

[uva124]

WRITING RANDOM IDEAS THAT I WANT TO PUT IN MY AU BUT I DON'T KNOW HOW OR I'M NOT SURE :D

1-Introduction of Haedus , Nembus and Naos:

See this I'm still debating on this because it's the first impressions of my main characters so it's very important, as I said my movie is not intended to be the best Disney movie that commemorates their legacy, no, I don't really have those intentions, in fact my intention is that it also looks like a parody like Enchanted but with touches of the “Princess and the Frog” movie lol, so the beginning I imagine it like the one in the enchanted movie, only Haedus is the “helper” of the random princess I'm going to put around, the little princess is like those classic ones (similar to Snow White), Haedus arrives as if she was a fairy godmother and helps our princess in her journey, we see that Haedus' personality is more joking and is even sarcastic with the princess in a mocking tone, but in between we can see that he is quite kind to her since well, he is literally fulfilling the role of “helper”, he is also accompanied by the two little stars Naos y Nembus and we can appreciate their relationship as brothers. Continuing with the story everything develops as a classic fairy tale, and in the end the prince stays with the princess and blah blah blah, only here comes the mental image that started this:

-Basically the princess and the prince start singing and dancing while the 3 stars watch everything, but Haedus is seen with eyes of boredom as if this is all routine, in even in one scene I imagine that the prince and the princess accidentally make the 2 little ones almost fall down (or something happens to them idk) and Haedus rescues them to proceed to look at the couple with eyes of wanting to kill them internally but tries to smile, and when already the musical number is going on too long, Haedus says:

“Yeah very nice and all, but you can finish now? we have to go -_-”

I'm still struggling to write this, because I still have to establish Haedus' past and how that explains why at the beginning he acts annoying with Asha and how he looks a bit uncomfortable or surprised to be helped for the first time with his siblings.

But with this scene I posit that in all the time Haedus helped the princesses, even though he and his little brothers do everything can to get her happy ending, they in the end seem to just forget about them when her find their prince.

I'm not sure about this either because I also don't want this scene to leave the message that “all princesses are only interested in getting a man” NOP, I don't want to give that message at all. So yeah, probably I'll deleted this escene.

2-The dynamic of Asha and Haedus (or rather their evolution):

This came to me mainly when I was watching tik tok and a scene from the movie “The Little Prince” popped up, and the dialogue goes like this:

“To me you are but a little boy among hundreds of thousands of other children, I don't need you and you don't need me, to you I am just a fox among thousands of other foxes.”

Later….

“For me you will be unique in the world, and for you I will be unique in the world.”

…..I'll probably have to watch the movie again or read the book, I'd really like to see if I can get inspiration from this.

3-Potential Angst:

You know the song “Monster” from the album “Epic the musical” ? well I plan to have Haedus be considered a monster even among the other stars of his world, and I also imagine a scene where either Magnifico and Amaya hurt Naos or Nembus in a SERIOUS way and just seeing Haedus say “Then I'll become the monster” just feels great to me you know?

Tik tok is giving me a lot of angst ideas, there is an audio from “The last of us” series where Joel loses his daughter and …….. do I have to explain how this can relate to Haedus and their little brothers Naos and Nembus?

[theladybarnes]

CHERRY BOMB: CHAPTER ONE

“One summer can change everything.”

▸ summary: summer’s here and it’s time to have some fun ▸ characters: steve harrington, jonathan byers, nancy wheeler & billy hargrove ▸ word count: 7.8k         ▸ warnings: SMUT (18+MINORS DNI) p&v smut, oral sex (f receiving), unprotected sex, angst, and fluff ▸ series masterlist

“All right Henderson. I can sneak you in..just as long as you remember to vote for me once you get inside. I am looking to win tonight.”

 “Tina, we may have had a few bumps in the road this year, but I promise you, you’ll get that crown.”

 The sound of your friend’s giggling tickled your ear through the receiver. Luck was truly on your side today. Not only were you able to make it to the shops before they closed, thus picking out the perfect outfit, but you managed to get into contact with Tina before she left her house. 

 “Perfect! I’ll be at the south entrance of the gym at eight sharp. They’ll read the votes about ten minutes after that.”

 “I’ll be there. Thanks again for helping me.”

 “Of course, what are friends for?”

  FRIDAY NIGHT, MAY 31st 1985

 The majority of the day was spent holed up in the Byers house. Getting ready away from the curious eyes of your cousin who might slip up and reveal the surprise you had planned. Ironically, it wasn’t the only surprise you’d end up giving when Joyce and Will caught you coming out of Jonathan's room in full makeup and gown. But after an impromptu prom style photoshoot with shy Will, and a quick check over with Joyce, you were off to the school.

 “You sure you’ll be okay for me to take off?”

 “Cinderella never had her fairy godmother stick around at her ball, Creep.” you teased, unbuckling your seatbelt. “Besides,” reaching for your small clutch you pull out a twenty, leaning over to stuff it into Jonathan’s hands. “It’s Friday night and you still have a few hours to take our sweet Nancy out for ice cream.”

 A blush spread over Jonathan’s cheeks and he attempted to give back the money, making you slap at his hand. “Cool it with the pride, Byers.” you argued, “It’s the money for the gas you spent driving me around today.”

 He looked like he wanted to argue about that, but one sharp look at him had him stuffing the money back in his pocket. “Wait,” he snorted, “when did Nancy become our Nancy?”

 “It became that when we finally got around to being friends.” you shrugged, checking the time on the dashboard clock. “If it makes you feel any better, to Nancy and I, you're our Jonathan.” You glanced back at your friend, noting the small smile that he was fighting to stop from coming out. “Okay, Creep. How do I look?”

 He shifted in his seat, giving you a look over before a small genuine smile took over. “I think you look beautiful. And, if Steve doesn’t appreciate all this then he’s an idiot.”

 Now it’s your turn to stop the smile from coming over your face. “Good, I’ll be sure to let him know that if he says otherwise.” Leaning over, you wrapped your arms around Jonathan, murmuring another thank you before you exited the car. 

 The south entrance of the gym was thankfully empty, and you quickly adjusted the strap of your dress as you waited for the door to open up. Just when you thought you were going to be screwed over, the loud press of the latch alerted you quickly, making you step closer. 

 Tina, who decided to change her dark locks into sunny blonde, poked her head out. 

 “I’m here!” she grinned, opening the door fully. Her bright blue dress shined against the moonlight and you had to acknowledge that while she most likely bought it from one of the outlet malls here, she did pull it off well. 

 “You look amazing!” you commented. “Definitely a winner in my eyes.” She twirled in spot, swishing her dress around before she waved at you to come over.

 “That’s good, but only if we hurry up can I get that win!” she urged. Not wanting to waste time, you followed her in. The music began to perk up louder in your ears as you followed Tina’s direction. The hue of red lights slowly came into vision and you softly gasped at the sight of the gym. It was actually a pretty cool looking prom. Something you’d always wonder about back home. With funding in your old school, most proms were held in hotels or banquet halls. But here in Hawkins, it still held onto that small town money and held theirs in the school’s gym.

 “Okay, so here’s your ballot.” Tina sang, reaching over for a piece of cardstock on the table. “The ballot box is down there and after that, you should probably head towards the stage. He’ll be asked to be near there as we wait for announcements. All the nominees are.” she winked before dashing off to join her date. 

 It gave the nerves you had been pushing down, a chance to come back. Shaking your head, you quickly reached for one of the pens on the table, checking off Tina’s name. The familiar name of the boy you were here for was noticeably at the section under ‘King’. 

 As stated, ten minutes after you voted, the lights dimmed to the stage and the music quickly faded out as man stepped away from the small booth connected to the speakers. “How is everyone doing tonight?!” called out the DJ, lowering the music down to clear sound for the announcement. “Class of eighty-five, are you guys ready to find out who your King and Queen are?!”

 The students around the gym erupted into a polite applause. Some even whistled. Your eyes scanned over the gym, looking for the familiar head of hair that usually called out to you like a beacon. 

 Down the line you spot him. He’s near the stage, far off enough that he could lean against the wall, looking over at the stage mournfully. The sight of him in a tux tugged at your heart and you’re worried others might notice the goofy look on your face as you stared over at him. He looked handsome, even in just the plain black suit with a black bow around his neck.

 “We’re pleased to announce that the voting is done and the results are in!” Continued the DJ after a few minutes. 

 “Let’s start out with ladies first, eh? For Prom Queen of nineteen eighty-five, we have..Tina Cline!” 

 Your friend let out a squeal as she quickly dashed over to the stage, going up the small platform’s stairs so that she could run over to her crown. You can’t help but smile, noting how happy it seemed to make her and joined in on the clapping.

 Her date, David McCorkle, was whooping for his partner as she gracefully bowed for the DJ to place the crown on her head. Others hushed down as the man pressed his lips to the mic again. “And as for you prom King we have..Steve Harrington!”

 To your surprise, everyone continued into another round of applause, making you and Steve shocked as he made his way to the stage. From the way things were for him last year, neither one of you would have figured he’d be the popular vote. Especially with Billy and his campaign against him. 

 Steve stepped onto the platform, looking a little shy in front of the people he once saw as fans almost. The DJ placed the crown on top of his head, turning him to face the crowd. Honestly, you’d hate to admit it, but he looked really good with a crown on his head. Even if it was just cheap plastic. Tina quickly rushed over and leaned close to Steve, posing for the photo with a bright smile. 

 “Now that we have our royal court, how about we open the floor up for their first dance?” 

 In typical fashion, Tina and Steve set off in different directions. Tina went to grab her date while Steve left, coming off the stage slowly. Looking towards the crowd nervously as he approached the small circle that had formed around the floor. That’s when you sucked in your breath and stepped forward. 

 Some students began to murmur as you weaved your way through the front. The sound of your name coming out a couple of times before you finally made it to the other side. Steve’s eyes found yours quickly and for the first time tonight, he grinned. 

 You took a few hesitant steps towards Steve when you spoke up. “So, your highness. Is this the part where I bow?” You said teasing.

 He chuckled at that, taking long strides to close the distance between the two of you. The tips of his fingers brushed against your arms before he wrapped his hands at your waist, pulling you close. 

 The sounds of Joan Jett’s Crimson and Clover began to play as the lights turned down into a small spot light towards the two couples. Moving your hands up his chest, you wrapped your hands around his neck. 

 The beat of your heart quickened when you noticed just how close your face is with Steve’s. Every freckle on his face was in clear view and the scent of his cologne only made him more distracting. Despite having done much more than dancing. The lingering feelings you had for him were coming in strong. Especially under the light red hue of the room that cast a warm shadow over his features. 

 “Tell me why,” Steve started, breaking the silence. “Not two hours ago, I showed up to your house, looking to give you this.” He reached into the pocket of his suit to pull out a single prom ticket. “Only for Dustin to come out and tell me you had been gone all day to hang out with Byers.”

 You can’t help but giggle at that. Finding it so amusing that you two were thinking the same thing today.

 “Well, he wasn’t wrong. I was with Jonathan. Running across town to find a dress here I’d like. Then I had to call Tina to help sneak me in so I could see that big goofy grin on your face.” You replied, hearing him hum as you plucked the ticket from his hand to stuff back in his coat for him. 

 “Just to surprise me?” He asked, slightly in disbelief moving his hand back to down your back. He began to rub soothingly as you two continued to sway slowly. 

 “Well, yeah” you chuckled. “I’m always willing to make dramatic entrances. Especially for friends.” 

 Steve turned silent for a moment, only smiling down at you before he leaned to place a kiss on your cheek. “That entrance was pretty cool. Especially considering how nice you look tonight.”

 “Careful, Harrington. You keep complimenting me and I might do something stupid.” 

 He raised a brow, leaning his head down far enough that you could feel his breath fan against your face. “Like what?”

 “Kiss you.”

 That has him reeling back a bit, blush spreading over his cheeks. He looked away from you, averting his eyes to the room before he burst out in a small laugh. “You kill me, trouble.”

 “I like to think I keep things interesting.” you smirked, leaning forward to rest your head against his chest. He hummed in agreement, continuing to lead the two of you in the dance. The song picks up a bit, and you barely peek out to notice other students have joined in the crowd now. Dancing to the upbeat tempo. All except you and Steve. In fact, it seemed like everything slowed down for you guys. 

 My, my, such a sweet thing (Ba-da, da-da, da-da)

 I wanna do everything (Ba-da, da-da, da-da)

 What a beautiful feelin' (Ba-da, da-da, da-da)

 Crimson and clover (Ba-da, da-da, da-da)

 “I love this song.” you admitted softly.

 When Steve stayed silent, you pulled your head back to look at him. Noticing the way he was looking down at you. Almost serious, but with a warmth behind his eyes. Desire. You thought. Just when you’re about to ask what’s wrong, he leaned in suddenly. Pressing his lips against yours. 

 He brought a hand up to cup the side of your cheek, keeping the kiss strong but gentle. The feeling of his plump lips against yours was something you had been missing for a while now and you waste no time in kissing back. There’s a small taste of Steve’s cherry chapstick. How it suddenly tasted so addicting was beyond you.

 It’s not until the song slowly started to slow down again that the two of you pulled away. Steve still kept his hand on your cheek, using the pad of his thumb to rub gently against the line of your lips. It has your chest beating like crazy and you’re praying you don’t look as flushed as you feel.

 “I guess I’m the one who wanted to do something stupid.” he smirked, looking down at your lips. You can’t can’t help but press a gentle kiss to his thumb, causing his eyes to widen in surprise. “Really, really stupid.” 

 You meet him in the middle this time, slanting your lips against his. There’s a moment where the kiss turned from hot and heavy to sweet. Letting you smile when you noticed how shy it made Steve when he pulled back for air again. 

 The song finally came to its end and you both took a step back to clap along with the other students as the DJ approached the mic again. 

 “You guys have been amazing tonight! The best school I’ve played for!” That got the students really riled up. Giving another round of clapping. “I’m gonna take my break now, but the prom committee has a special surprise just for you guys.” 

 From the right side of the stage, the students slowly welcomed a soft blonde up onto the stage. Her outfit looked a lot like the ones you’d see in an ad for the gap, but bedazzled to shine up on the stage. It isn’t until she stood in the direct spotlight that you realized who it was.

 “Is that Tammy Thompson from homeroom?”

 Steve looked over at the stage, face twisting in confusion before he looked back to you. “I have no idea who that is.” You couldn’t help but laugh a bit, looking up at your friend incredulously. “What?” he laughed, still confused.

 “Steve! Tammy was in our homeroom all last year! I thought you two knew each other from the way you’d greet her.” you gaped, covering up your mouth to hold in the laughter that wanted to come out.

 “Was she?” he mused, taking a second glance at her. “What the hell is she doing on stage?”

 The answer came quickly when the lights began to dimmer again, bringing back that warmth in the room as the music picked up again. The sounds of an electric piano began to play and Tammy smiled confidently to the audience before she stepped up to the mic, composing herself quickly. 

 “Is she..?” you said softly looking back at Steve. He shared a similar look of shock before nodding his head.

 “I think she is.”

 “(Turn around)

 Every now and then I get a little bit lonely

 And you're never coming 'round

 (Turn around)”

 The two of you can only look at each other in shock. Tammy had always sung around everyone, whether under her breath in class, or occasionally in the bathroom, or even at lunch to her group of friends. But never would you have ever expected her to be out in the middle of prom, singing for the Senior class. 

 “Every now and then I get a little bit tired

 Of listening to the sound of my tears

 (Turn around)

 Every now and then I get a little bit nervous

 That the best of all the years have gone by

 (Turn around)

 Every now and then I get a little bit terrified

 And then I see the look in your eyes!”

 “Oh my God.” you both said at the same time. Not only was Tammy out of tune, but confidently so. Pushing your face into Steve’s chest, you cover up the sounds of your laughter against his jacket. Hoping it’ll muffle out any noise you make.

 “You can’t laugh!” Steve hissed in your ear. “If you laugh it’s gonna make me laugh!” 

 Biting down on your lip, you pull yourself back to face Steve again. Noting how hard he looks at keeping down his own amusement. But staring at each other only makes it worse and you two burst out in a fit of hysterics. Thankfully it’s drowned out by the very loud chorus of the song.

 “Oh God, I feel like I must look crazy right now.” you huffed, biting down on your lip to stop the grin on your lip. Steve’s laughter died down slowly when he looked down at your face. Using his thumb, he gently tugged your bottom lip from your teeth. Caressing the skin gently with the pad from his finger. 

 “You’re beautiful..” he said softly.

 Your chest swells with the compliment again. His soft confession nearly takes your breath away. Sticking to your word, you lean your head up to his and press a kiss against his lips. Making him wrap his arms around you again. 

 “God, we just can’t stop being stupid tonight.” you breathed trying to pull away from his lips but he chased after you. Grazing his tongue at the opening of your mouth before you parted your lips to kiss him again, feeling his tongue slip inside. 

 Kissing Steve was definitely not on your plans for tonight. But you sure are glad to have happened. Still, you couldn’t help but worry about what might be happening to the two of you. Were friends really supposed to be kissing? How would the two of you feel later on when you were out of the foggy haze of romantic lighting and dancing?

 You quickly pulled back from Steve, going as far to take a step back from him as you shook away the thoughts from your head. He slowly reached out to place a hand on your arm, calling out your name to look over at him again.

 “Hey, are you okay?” he asked, looking at you with concern. 

 “Yeah,” you coughed, trying to sound as calm as you could. “I just..felt lightheaded.” It wasn’t a complete lie but enough that you didn’t feel bad about your answer. But that didn’t matter anyway, Steve was already pulling you back, cupping the side of your cheek to make you look directly in his line of sight. 

 “We’re not really good at this friend thing, huh?” 

 “No,” you admitted, rubbing your hands over his shoulders before wrapping them around his neck again. “And it’s kinda..making me worried.”

 “You shouldn’t worry..” He frowned, “We’re still friends..who are also..having fun.”

 “Oh, so that’s what friends do for fun?” you asked, trying to sound calm about it. Steve blushed a bit, shrugging his shoulders as he nodded. 

 “Maybe that’s something we can do..if you’re into it.” he suggested. 

 What Steve was suggesting felt too much like a double edge sword. Friends with benefits seemed so juvenile for you two. Had you not both felt too much for each other these past few months? What if casual sex messed all that up and you both ended up not even being friends.

 “I’m sorry.” he said, breaking into your thoughts. “I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. Nothing has to change between us.”

 “No!” you quickly said. “You didn’t..” Licking your lips you can’t help but think it over again. Steve was a friend now and sex with someone you trust wasn’t always a bad thing.. “I’d like to try.. But I just..don’t want us to end up not being friends if feelings change.”

 “They wouldn’t.” he quickly answered. “I’d never stop being your friend. Even if you hate me, I’ll always want to be your friend.”

 His reassurance has you smiling a little. “You promise?” He brushes a hand over your cheek, pulling you close again to wrap you in a hug.

 “I promise, trouble..I’ll never stop.”

 SATURDAY, JUNE 8TH 1985

 “Oh God, Steve. Don’t stop!” you gasped, reaching down to tug on the top of his hair. The words only made Steve stop his tongue and its assault on your clit. Pulling his head up a bit so that he could look up at you from the floor. 

 “You’re so bossy.” Steve pouted, placing a single kiss against the lips of your pussy. “Thought this day was about me?”

 The loud bass sound of Soft Cell’s Tainted Love beat through the walls of the upstairs bathroom at Anna Jacobi’s house. Muffling out the sounds you were currently making in the room with Steve. That is, until Steve decided to switch things up by teasing. 

 Growling a bit, you looked down at Steve, still kneeling in the same position in front of you as you leaned against the counter. One leg hooked over his shoulders. “I thought we were doing what you wanted?” you smirked, “I can always just go find someone else who wants to have some fu– OH.” 

 Steve quickly dived back into your pussy, lapping his tongue against your folds before he circled around the bundle that caused you to shake. Reaching back for his hair again, you pushed him harder against you, earning you a groan from Steve. He reached one of his hands up to slide up the leg that was hanging over him, letting his fingertip trace gently against the opening of your core before he gently pushed it in.

 You cried out softly, arching your back a bit from the sink mirror. He took that as a sign to pump his finger faster, quickly inserting another as he wrapped his mouth around your clit, creating a sucking motion that has your eyes rolling to the back of your head. 

 “Shit, Steve!” you cried out, holding onto his hair with one hand and the counter with the other. He continued his work faster, making your breathing cut short and body tighten up before he finally sucked just hard enough to have you seeing white. The wave of your orgasm rips all over you so strongly that you let go of Steve’s hair in fear of accidentally tearing it out.

 Steve continued to pump inside you slowly, letting his hands help ride out the rest of the orgasm while he placed kisses on your inner thighs. “Fuck,” he cursed. “You sound so hot.” Slowly, he pulled his hand out, looking at you carefully as he brought it up to his mouth.

 You watch in awe as he silently sucked on the tip of his fingers. His eyes are dark with lust and he’s holding back a smile as he popped each finger out. “You always taste so good too.” he mused, making you feel the heat on your face again.

 It has your desire coming back and you reach forward to grab the belt against his waist. Pulling at the strap quickly as you work to undo the ties. 

 “Whoa, baby, slow down.” Steve chuckled, moving to place his hands at your hips. “We don’t have to do anything..I just wanted to make you-” His words cut off when you used your other hand to tug him down by the neck. Pressing your lips quickly against his to shut him up. 

 He moaned against you, gripping tightly now as he allowed you to undo the button on his pants. You’re quick to get his pants down enough to slip your hand inside, going past his boxers to grab hold of his cock.

 Steve pulled back from the kiss to let out a hiss. Jaw slacked as he stared down at your hands. Using your thumb to wipe at the precum dribbling out of his tip, you squeeze gently around his cock, creating a stroking motion that has him having to bite down on his lip from crying out. 

 “Aww,” you cooed, looking up at him. “Don’t I get to hear your pretty noises?” 

 A deep red blush spread over Steve’s cheeks and you knew it wasn’t from his own body reacting to the heat of the bathroom. But instead of giving in to your teasing, he reached out to pull you closer by your hips. Lining the two of you up perfectly. 

 Helping him out, you pushed down his pants further, and stroked once more before you lined up his cock to your core. He helped wrap your legs around his waist, stepping forward to brush the tip of his cock to the entrance. You reached a hand up to brush his ever growing hair away from his face so that he could look down at you. 

 Smiling. Steve leaned in and pressed his lips gently against yours. Kissing you sweetly as a distraction while he pushed the head of his cock inside.

 It takes a minute to adjust to his size, having his fingers just inside barely helped prep you. But Steve already knows to go slow. Giving your body a minute to adjust before he pushed the rest of himself in. 

 Feeling full again had you whimpering against Steve’s lips. Moving your hands up, you wrapped them around his neck, deepening the kiss. Steve took that as a sign to slowly thrust forward, keeping one hand at your hip and the other at your back to prevent you from moving out of place. 

 There’s a pounding at the door that you and Steve ignore. Each other’s tongues slipped past lips to swirl against each other while Steve’s thrusts got harder. It’s not until you need air that you drop your head back, letting out another cry. Feeling the head of his cock reach the right angle. Steve let go of your hip to bring his thumb to your lips. 

 “Suck it.” He demanded. You wrap your lips around the digit and do as he says. He groaned a bit at that before he pulled it out of your mouth and down to your clit. Using the overstimulation to his advantage to get you closer to your next orgasm.

 “You’re squeezing me so tight, baby.” he gritted, thrusts turning a little sloppy as he got closer to his edge. “Gonna make me cum so hard tonight.” Rubbing faster circles, Steve leaned forward to place his lips against the nape of your neck. Sucking harshly against the sensitive skin. 

 “I’m so close.” you gasped, tugging at the ends of Steve’s hair. The harsh tug caused him to gasp against your neck before he bit down to mark you. 

 “Come for me, pretty girl.” he said, thrusting faster. “Just for me.”

 His words coax you almost embarrassingly easily and you feel your body tighten again as you hit your second orgasm. The walls of your pussy tightened around his cock and it wasn’t long until Steve was groaning your name. The ropes of his hot cum shot inside soon after. 

 The two of you were still panting when he reached down to pull himself out. You angled your neck down to watch him rub the mushroom head against your swollen sensitive lips before he took a step back. “God, if we weren’t at this party, I might just go to town at that sight.” he muttered, giving your cheek a quick kiss before tucked himself in.

 “Keep talking like that and I just might let you.” you chuckled, still frozen in place. Steve took that as his chance to reach for one of the hand towels on the counter, running it under the water on the sink before he gently helped clean you up.

 “Thank you.” you said softly, letting him finish up before he helped you off of the counter. He only gave a shy smile before chucking the towel into the trash can near the sink. “And I’ll just be taking these back.” You said, carefully reaching into Steve’s pocket to dig for the pair of panties he tried stealing from you earlier. 

 “Aw, but I thought that was my present.” he said, faking a pout.

 “Your graduation present is over at my house. I told you.” you laughed, stepping inside of the clothing before slipping it on. Thankfully you were wearing a summer dress and didn’t have to bother fixing up your outfit too much. 

 “Who forgets to bring a present to a graduation party?” Steve asked, running his hands through the water at the sink. He carefully ran the wet fingers through his hair, smoothing out some of the frayed strands that you tugged on. “I look insane.”

 “I invited you earlier for lunch to give it to you then but you totally ditched me.” You frowned, looking at the mirror to fix your own appearance. The bite mark Steve made would surely become visible in the next couple of hours. But there wasn’t much you could do. Throwing a glance at Steve, you smirk to yourself at how crazy you managed to turn his styled locks into. 

 “I think I managed to make it look better.” you shrugged, readjusting your bobby pin to keep your hair in place.

 He ignored your other comment and tousled his hair again. Trying to get it to look right. “I told you, after the ceremony my parents wanted to get lunch. I wanted to invite you but you got all pouty and left with Dustin.”

 You scrunch your nose at that answer. The very idea of lunch with Steve’s parents sounded too dreadful. Especially when the only time you met them was when you and Steve had left to go to the movies. 

 “Well, I’m glad I passed on that.” 

 Steve walked over to the door, peeking out into the hall to see if it was empty. “Why do you say that?” He asked, glancing back. 

 “Because..it would have been awkward. Meeting officially and all that.” You shrugged. 

 He chuckled a little, cocking his head to the side. “You have nothing to be worried about. Besides,” he tugged you close. The warmth of his palm engulfed your cheek and he looked down at you with a small smile. “It’s not like we’re dating anyway.”

 The words hit you in the face like ice water on a cold day. There was no malice in his tone and you knew better than to think Steve would intentionally use those words to hurt you. But that doesn’t stop your face from frowning. 

 “Right,” you gaped. Trying to reboot yourself back to normal. “Fix your zipper.” You muttered, rolling your eyes. 

 Pushing him a bit, you tear the door open and step out into the hall. Momentarily forgetting about checking for anyone as you rush down the hall and ignore the sounds of Steve calling your name. 

  “I’m officially cutting you two off.” 

 Nancy and you both snapped your heads up from your lounge chairs to see a disgruntled Jonathan with his hands on his hips. You steal a glance to the girl on your right and notice just how red her face had gotten in the thirty minutes you had joined her side.

 “I think we’re in trouble.” you giggled, trying to bite down on your lip. 

 Nancy frowned at Jonathan, a notable sign that she truly was out of it considering most of the time she was more pleased to see him. She reached for your hand and pulled you back into the conversation, ignoring her boyfriend.

 “So, I come into the office, eager to work. I greet Mr. Holloway and introduce myself.”

 “Sounds right.” you nodded, trying to follow along.

 “I literally say my name and not one second after this asshole, Bruce Lowe, yelled at me from across the office. ‘NANCY DREW.’”

 “No way! He stole my nickname!” 

 Nancy held out her hands, looking upset about it. “Exactly! It made me look so..young!” She hiccuped a bit, holding her fingers to her lips before she waved it off. “A-and then, he asks me for coffee.” She slapped at your arm, frowning. “Goddamn coffee!”

 You rubbed at the red skin, nodding your head sympathetically. “What an asshole! Why would they even let you come in as an intern if they wanted like..an assistant or something?” Nancy clapped her hands, looking exasperated. 

 “That’s what I’ve been saying!”

 Jonathan eventually noticed that you two weren’t going to acknowledge him and sat down beside Nancy. Rubbing his hands together as he listened in on the conversation. 

 “I should go there!” you said suddenly. “I should go there and yell at him. Maybe make him cry.” The couple looked at you quizzically but you continued on. “I’ve made a grown man cry before.” 

 “Was that man Steve by any chance?” Jonathan asked, looking slightly uncomfortable. 

 You frown at the mention of his name. It’s been almost an hour since you left him in the bathroom and while you know that you should probably play the whole interaction as nothing. You couldn’t help but feel a remaining sting from his words. 

 “Why are you bringing him up?”

 “Because he’s been staring over here for ten minutes like someone kicked his dog.” He said pointing behind you. All three of you turn to look over your shoulder. Across the large yard was Steve,hanging around the back door of the house. And just like Jonathan said, he indeed looked sad. 

 All you could do is raise a brow at him. What the hell was he upset about?

 “Steve doesn’t have a dog.” Nancy giggled, leaning her head onto Jonathan’s shoulders. 

 You’re somewhat glad to have the girl intervene, joining in on her giggles. “She’s right! I didn’t kick any dog!” 

 “That’s not what I mea—“

 Jonathan was cut off when you leaned forward to shush him with your finger. He swatted at your hand. Trying to get it away from his face. “He’s just probably moody because we’re over here having fun and he’s boring.”

 “Geez, Henderson. Tell ‘em what you really think of me.”

 You wince instantly. Face scrunching up at the voice behind you. Leaning back you crank your head up to see Steve standing behind you, a slightly worried look on his face. 

 “Steve! You’re here!”

 Rolling his eyes, Steve moved over to your lounge chair. Lifting up your legs so that he could sit beside you. “I’ve been here for a while now.” he muttered, placing your legs down over his lap. His brown eyes shifted between you guys before coming back to you. “Been looking for you actually.” 

 “Well, you found me!” you clapped. “Cancel the search party.”

 Steve frowned at your reaction, casting a glance to Jonathan. “Is she drunk?” Your friend sighed at Steve. Nodding his head while Nancy sleepily slumped against him. 

 “They’re both pretty buzzed.” 

 “He’s lying.” you interjected quickly, pointing a finger at your friend. “I am not buzzed..”

 You caught eyes with Nancy and watched as she tried to hold back a smirk. “I’m wasted.” you said, making the two of you burst out laughing. The two boys sighed, and you couldn’t help but frown. It was a party and you were allowed to let loose. 

 “Okay, trouble. How about, we all head out of here and maybe get some coffee in you two.” Steve said, trying to reach out for your hand. The tip of his fingers barely grazed your hand you already felt the familiar heat. Pulling it back, you gave him a dirty look before you climbed off from the chair.

 “That’s so boring, Steve. I’m having fun.” 

 “Yeah,” Nancy added, picking herself up from Jonathan’s shoulder. “Fun!” She tried to get up from her seat but stumbled a bit before she gave up. “Oh that was too fast.” she muttered softly. Jonathan reached out to hold her hand, urging her to sit a bit before he glanced up at you.

 “Don’t you think you’ve had enough fun? I think Steve’s right, we could get coffee and that cake you like from the diner.”

 Jonathan and Steve teaming up was definitely something you didn’t think would happen this summer. Especially when it was against you. Crossing your arms, you look down at the three, feeling betrayed, annoyed, and thirsty..

 “You guys can all go get coffee and cake. I’m gonna go get another drink and find someone to hang out with!” 

 Quickly turning on your heel, you ignore the others trying to get to you and dash towards the house. Other students and some graduates are all around the Jacobi yard. There were some already far more gone than you, and others who were chilling out together. That left you to find a happy middle.

 Entering inside the kitchen, you push past a couple making out with each other in the door way to get to the fridge. Inside were freshly chilled cans of beer. Grabbing one for yourself, you crack open the top and bring the cold can to your lips.

 “Figured you’d learn your lesson from the last time, babydoll.”

 Instantly the beer turned bitter in your mouth. Turning around, you come face to face with Billy. His red blouse was barely buttoned towards the end of the shirt, leaving his bare chest exposed for the world to see. 

 “Booo!” you called out, trying to shoo him away. “Not tonight.”

 Billy laughed a bit, watching as you continued to drink from the can before he brushed past you to grab a can for himself. He stayed close, bringing his own drink to his mouth. “For someone who’s been freshly fucked tonight, you’re still so wound up.” he cooed, taking a long sip. You’re about to open your mouth when you notice where his line of sight was. 

 Instantly your hand jumped to your neck, feeling the spot where Steve had marked you earlier. You’d hurt his dumb beautiful mouth later.

 “..Whatever.” you huffed.

 The beer was not giving you any liquid courage, and you’re finding it harder to focus on a way to get rid of Billy. Even without the mark, you knew he’d be able to tell what you had done tonight from past experience, but it pissed you off that he managed to point it out before you could attempt to hide it.

 “You know,” he started, setting the can on the counter. “If Harrington didn’t do a good job..I’m always here to fix it.” His hand reached out for yours, gently tugging you closer to him. “I’ve got a lot of making up to you..”

 He brushed the tips of his fingers over your arm, trailing upwards towards the scar that remained on your arm from last year. Despite the effects of the beer inside you, that was enough to give you a moment of clarity.

 “Fuck you.” you hissed, staggering back. 

 Billy pursed his lips, settling for gripping onto your arm now to pull you back in. “I think you might wanna change your tune.” he gritted. 

 “I think you might wanna let her go.” said a voice from the doorway. You don’t have to turn to know who it was. But you did let out a breath you had been holding in. “She’s not interested, Hargrove.” 

 Billy chortled a bit, looking over at you before he let go. Holding his hands up as he took a step back. “Back for seconds, Stevie boy?” he smirked. “Didn’t fuck her right the first time, guess you get to have a re–” 

 You’re pouring your beer above Billy’s head before you can truly think it over. The sounds of the liquid hitting over the ground as it rolled off his head and onto the kitchen floor were oddly loud enough to compete with the music currently blasting.

 “I said. Fuck you.”

 Billy wiped his hand over his face, looking at you with red in his eyes. You glanced down to notice that his hands were balled up. And before anyone in the room could react, the sound of a door slamming open caused you three to stop.

 “THE COPS ARE COMING!”

 Simultaneously, everyone dropped whatever they were holding and made a dash towards any available exit. 

 Steve reached out for your hand, pulling you with him towards the backyard. Pushing past everyone so that he could get you back to your friends. The sudden panic and rush had you feeling suddenly sick and you wished you had worn better shoes than wedges you had slipped on. 

 “We gotta bail.” Jonathan said, holding tightly to Nancy’s hand. The girl looked more sober than you last saw her and you wondered if she threw up from the way her hair was pulled back from her face. “Do you think you can take her home?”

 “No!” you cried out, reaching out for Nancy. “We’re supposed to sleep in the basement!”

 Both boys looked at you curiously before Nancy chimed, nodding her head. “She’s spending the night!”

 “Great,” Steve scoffed. The sounds of yelling could be heard from inside the house and more kids pushed their way out the back door. “All right, here’s what we’re gonna do. I’ll take Trouble here to mine. My parents are out anyway.”

 “Shit, okay.” Jonathan said warily.  He glanced at you worried before he pointed over at Steve. “Take care of her, okay? Tell her to call my house in the morning.” His words sounded more like a warning and you can’t help but get emotional over your friend. “Nancy and I will be waiting.”

 “Creep! You’re so sweet!” you pouted, wrapping your arms around Jonathan. Nancy chuckled a bit, joining in on the hug. Missing out on the way her boyfriend blushed from the attention you guys were giving him.

 “Okay, honey. You love the guy, but we gotta go.” Steve urged, reaching gently to pry you off Jonathan. 

 There’s no more room for goodbyes as the familiar sound of Officer Callahan’s aggravating yelling came through the backdoor. Steve wasted no time, grabbing your hand and yelling at the couple to follow him as he ran in the direction towards the back gate. Officially ending your night of partying.

 It’s a blur after you guys left the party. After parting ways with your two friends, you made it to Steve’s car just in time for the adrenaline to make you sleepy. It wasn’t long for you to black out after that.

 You’re not sure what time it is when you wake up, all you know is that you’re warm and there’s lights hitting your face now and then. Blinking slowly, you took in your surroundings, noting just where you were

 The low hum of the house’s air conditioning gave the room white noise, going perfectly with the bouncing reflection that came from the pool through the window. A dead giveaway of where you were actually.

 “Go to sleep.” mumbled a tired voice behind you. 

 You peeked over to see Steve facing towards you. His eyes were closed and from the deep gravel in his voice, you knew he had been asleep. You make an attempt to turn around and face him when you feel the weight of his arm over your waist. 

 “Get your arm off.” you huffed, trying to turn over. 

 Steve did so, waiting until you were able to turn your body to face him before he set his arm down again. Pulling you closer to his chest now. The soft smell of the laundry detergent was enough to make you bury your face into his chest. Feeling the cotton of his shirt rub against your cheek.

 “Why am I here?” you murmured into his shirt, not seeming to worry about what time it was.

 “You were drunk.” he answered, nuzzling his face into your hair a bit. “Couldn’t leave you and Nancy together.”

 “I’m still a little drunk.” you note, feeling the buzz still in your body. 

 “I know, you tried to make out with me three times before I convinced you to sleep.”

 You snap your head back a bit, glancing up at Steve’s face. Even in the dark and low light from the window, you could see him smirking a bit. 

 “I did not.”

 “Did too.”

 Frowning, you put your face back at his chest. The weight of his hand lifted up a bit as he soothingly rubbed at your back. He’s trying to coax you back to sleep, but you feel like your mind sobering up might stop that. How was he still so nice to you when you ignored him for half the night? Why would Steve always end up being so kind to your curtness? 

 “I can hear you thinking..”

 “I’m not, go back to sleep.”

 He sighed softly, shuffling under the blanket. The tip of his toe tickled at your shin. “Only if you sleep.”

 “I can’t, I’m wide awake now.”

 Steve pressed his lips to your forehead. The tips of his hair tickled your forehead in the process. “I think I know of a way I can tire you out.” he joked, making you pinch lightly at his pecs. “Ow!”

 “You’re not funny.”

 “I’m a little funny.”

 He shuffled the two of you, putting himself on his back before he pulled you to rest partially on top of his chest. The sound of his heartbeat was loud against your ears and you smiled at how calming it sounded. 

 “I’m sorry,” you said suddenly. “I was mean tonight.”

 “You weren’t mean.” he said quickly, hand wrapped around your shoulder to press you tighter.

 “I’m always mean and you act so nice to me. Even if I push you away.”

 He stayed quiet for a second before you felt him move his shoulders. Possibly shrugging. “You gave me mind blowing sex and went off to enjoy the party. I don’t see that as being mean.” 

 You want to point out that you ditched him afterwards, suddenly hurt by his words, but you couldn’t bring yourself to point that out. Not when there could be a question as to why. “So you’re not mad at me?” 

 “Nope.” He pressed his lips to your head, reaching down to pull the blanket over you two with his hand. “I was worried you were mad at me..”

 “I’m not.” you half lied. “I’m glad to have hung out with you..even if it was to fool around for a bit.”

 He didn’t say anything for a second and you were worried he had gone back to sleep before he cleared his throat a bit. “Let me take you out for breakfast tomorrow. Make up for skipping out on that lunch?”

 Nodding your head, you drape a leg over his, letting yourself get more comfortable against his body. “Okay, I’d like that.” It was the first honest answer you could give him today and you’re glad it’s enough to relieve the slight ache in your chest.

 “Now as much as I like hearing your voice, I’m exhausted.” he chuckled, sounding slightly relieved by your reply. “Unless you still wanna get tired out..” 

 Pinching him again, you chuckle a bit against him before closing your eyes feeling the feeling of sleep creeping up on you again. “Goodnight, Steve.”

 “Sweet dreams, Trouble.” 

a/n: We’re back again! Looks a bit rough since it’s longer but I really wanted to show moments with Steve that we didn’t get on the show and thought it’d be fun to start off the angst early! 

[thedoover-if]

i'll just call myself the avoidance anon (lol) and yes, we're doing much better, thank you! I'm happy to say that, as a big FU to my (ex) dad, I am now earning three times his salary. haha

anyways, on the subject of kids, I have this scenario where my PC have always wanted to have a child (totally not me btw) but obviously that didn't happen bc of the cheating and divorce. in a game I played recently, the MC's mother had artifical insemination to have a baby. so what if our PC did that too (we better be making big bucks as a marriage councellor or i'll sue) a year or two after the divorce.

I hc my PC as someone who overworks to cope (if I can't see you, you can't see me) and kinda just... forgets to take care of themselves at some point. while spending a day-off on their favorite cafe, they happen to see a happy family walk by and after almost a week of thinking, they're on their way to get an IUI. a few months later, its confirmed that they're pregnant and affectionately call the bundle of joy, 'my miracle'. ('I lost myself but I found you, my tiny miracle')

on the night of the accident, PC asked the sweet old couple next door to babysit bc they're working late aaand... there goes the plot. at some point after the accident, the ex-spouse somehow meets the child and is curious about the father and (possibly) gets even more heartbroken realizing PC most likely went through a pregnancy alone; the morning sickness, pregnancy cravings, and the heightened emotions on top of the soreness.

ex-spouse: 'oh, what are you drawing?'

(c/n): 'ms. penny said to draw my family. this is me; I'm a prince/princess.'

ex-spouse: "oh, is this your mommy and daddy, then?"

(c/n): 'no, mommy is the fairy godmother. that's daddy and his princess.'

ex-spouse: 'your daddy and... his princess?'

(c/n): 'mmh! mommy said my real daddy left to look for his true love, and that they lived happily ever after.'

(the skit is purely for emotional damage LOLOLOL)

ex-spouse is left to be a silent observer as he watches PC put the child to sleep by singing them a lullaby (think 'never grow up' by ts) and watch them be the mother they always wanted to be, except, the spot next to them was empty (different from his imagination) and the warm, loving gaze PC used to give him was now directed at someone else.

for extra angst, i'd like to imagine the ex-spouse's parents being aware that PC had a baby and sends birthday and holiday gifts for the little one. they were even there for the baby's birth. when the ex later called his parents to ask why they didn't say anything to him about the baby, they simply said 'it was none of his business'. of course, the parents would notice PC overworking themselves, but months later, they saw small, positive change with the PC, and when they opened up they were, in fact, pregnant, they didn't want their kid to ruin the happiness PC found (again)

at this point, it just became a mini-au of an au. I'M JSUT SO EXCITED FOR THIS IF JSJAKPQXNWO

hi again! aw that makes me really happy to hear and YESSS CONGRATS TO YOU!!!

uhm...this skit😭😭 emotional damage achieved anon😭 also i love never grow up!! well this story broke my heart WHYY. reading this makes me so glad i didnt add any kids into this horrible mix LOL. and by the end of the book itll just be up in the air what happens with MC and their partner, so you guys can just create whatever scenarios you want haha

and thank you for the excitment!!💗 sorry its taking so long, coding is such a drag (im really slow haha) but it hopefully shouldnt be too long anymore!!

[undreaming-fanfiction]

1k followers...how?

Well, it's here. When I started thinking about writing Steddie drabbles and fanfiction in September 2022, I had no idea it would become such a huge hobby of mine. I also had no idea there would be 1k of you willing to read my thoughts, drabbles and constant rambling.

So, from the bottom of my heart - thank you. Thank you for every like, comment and reblog, thank you for all your tags that I read religiously. Thank you even if you just read and don't interact. I'm still incredibly happy that you found my work worth reading.

A few special mentions and thank yous (especially from the mutuals server, but I love you all and I'm so sorry if I forgot someone):

@thelastwalkingsoul for setting up the most cozy moots corner we could wish for.

@strawberryspence for allowing me to ruin the sky with her and for our very long messages which always make my day.

@unclewaynemunson for the Clarkson cult and constantly trying to steal my cat. Also for using my academic fairy godmother services!

My internet daughter @skeliiix for their silliness and the family tree where I'm apparently (almost) everyone's mother?

@steveshairychest for all the support and not kicking us all out into the other space for that public discussion of the fandom-that-shall-not-be-named.

@stevesbipanic for all the angst. Let us slurp tears of our followers together, fellow Angstflayer bodypart.

@henderdads for the constant stream of sweet and painful posts that keeps me on my toes.

@thefreakandthehair for organizing such a fun fan event and for being a fellow fandom geriatric I can relate to.

@withacapitalp for being someone who appreciates funny mugs and glasses and someone I can commiserate with about teaching.

@frankenstein-ate-my-left-shoe for all the wonderful Steddie song recs!

@steddiealltheway for the Meet Ugly, it melts my heart every time I remember it, for all your lovely works and for joining us in the tiny moots corner.

@yournowheregirl for the absolute joy that was the Dolly fiction, I still think about it sometimes often. Also for all the silliness in the mootland.

@legitcookie and @sidekick-hero for your comments and reblogs, I always notice them (and your works which I'm religiously stalking on public transport, ahem)

And as always, @hoples who was able to point out that I look much happier IRL now that I have an active fandom again. And I can say - yes. Yes I am.

[mirror-to-the-past]

More (Apparently) KH3:Remind and Melody of Memory Stuff

Spiritually pounding on the windows of the Square Enix building- what do you MEAN I find out via YouTube that there's story cutscenes locked behind those egregious Data fights?? (That I'll personally beat... someday...)

(I also just went ahead and watched all the cutscenes for Melody of Memory, because I didn't want to play through a $60 rhythm game, sorryyy)

But first, Re:Mind and its sneaky, sneaky cutscenes...

Everything with Yozora has me Bonkers. I can't believe they've done this. Echoing Sora's first line in the series "I've been having these weird thoughts lately" through his own side of the story, him saying that he doesn't look like how he appears, the 'why do you know that name,' the "save Sora" while immediately drawing a gun on the man in question?? I'm just... *screaming noises* They're bringing everything together with the fiction versus reality stuff they have going on, and guys, I get SO excited when some games go meta. I'm squealing like a little girl; I'm ecstatic. Despite Sora being in (what I now know as Quadratum) and the background of the Yozora fight reflecting that, I can't help but wonder if it was another internal fight due to the arena switching to Sora's Heart Station for a second, akin to Roxas' fight in KH2.

And the music was so pretty... Yozora has a gorgeous theme. The prettier the battle theme, the more insane the KH fight, I say.

Also Riku was dreaming of Sora for a year. Lmao. He just... didn't say anything about it, while everyone was busting their asses. I'll be honest, literally the only way I could take that is that he dismissed his dreams as irrelevant- ah yes, dreaming of Sora? Nothing crazy to see here. Oh, Riku.

Also more importantly than Riku's angst deal- KAIRI WAS LAUNCHED INTO SPACE WHEN SHE WAS A PRESCHOOLER TO ACT AS A KEYBLADE WIELDER HOMING DEVICE, JESUS CHRIST. Kairi 🤝 Megamind 🤝 potentially Superman (I'm not a comics guy):

Getting launched out of their home planets into space in order to escape the destruction of their worlds, given vague and confusing scenarios and instructions to adapt to once they find a new planet, but they really just wanna chill and be loved and keep people safe.

And she's gonna train with Aqua! :D Another professional at getting launched into other worlds (realms). I hope she bonds with Ventus, as I've recently been made aware of their similarities in disposition, and how they are treated by others (hearts of pure light, designated by their groups as "the one who should stay home/be protected", wavering self confidence in their own abilities and self worth). Additionally, the hilarious potential scenarios of Kairi being like "yeah, and my favorite color's actually-" and Ventus interrupts with "Purple. I know," because the man essentially vicariously lived Sora's childhood. I'm super stoked for future Kairi screentime! Loved when she saw Xehanort in her memories and was like 'I don't care if you're a memory, data, manifestation of my heart or any other thing- I hate you, get out of my life forever. Hugs and kisses, die.' Like, 10/10, girl. Fair. Kairi's a volcano wrapped in a sweet package ready to snap at someone.

Riku's like "Y'know Ansem, I'm gonna miss you... 🥺"

And Sora's like "Xemnas, stooop all the violence. How can you take advantage of people with hearts? You should feel your feelings. You're valid, bestie. ☺️"

Kairi's no bleeding heart for baddies, she just wants everyone to get off her damn case, lol!

Also LOL at the fairy godmother of all people being the one to ship Riku off to Quadratum after Sora. My Cinderiku jokes (as well as my previous KH3 post's blurb about Riku determinedly walking into the ocean to find Sora) may not be completely unwarranted, now. Like, Miss 'specialty in dreams?' Miss "If you'd lost all your faith, I couldn't be here. And here I am." Not even to mention "a dream is a wish your heart makes," a very relevant lyric for this set of circumstances, if I do say so myself. I guess that's just gonna be another song I love and sing to myself that now makes me think of KH. 🤷 There's worse things I suppose, for example, like Buddy Holly being stuck in my head for three days straight and making me feel like I'm trapped listening to my uncle's records (thanks, Good Omens).

I ended up re-watching "Cinderella" for the first time in a while because of that part of Re:Mind and MoM. The KH association of the part with Fairy Godmother's appearance is now semi-heartwrenching, given the context of her appearance in "Cinderella," as well:

You have the vocalizing chorus throughout the opening of the scene acting as a callback to Cinderella's "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes" song as well as reflecting her inner thoughts, and she has a dialogue with it while she sobs alone in the garden:

Chorus: Whatever you wish for, you keep...

Cinderella: "Oh, no... no, it isn't true."

Chorus: Have faith in your dreams and someday... your rainbow will come smiling through!

Cinderella: "It's just no use. No use at all."

Chorus: No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing...

Cinderella: "I can't believe! Not anymore..."

Chorus: The dream that you wish... *lyric trails off, unfinished*

Cinderella: "There's nothing left to believe in... nothing..."

[Fairy Godmother materializes next to her]

FG: "Nothing my dear? Oh, now you don't really mean that."

Cinderella: "Oh, but I do-"

FG: "Nonsense, child! If you lost all your faith, I couldn't be here, and here I am!"

[the violin and cello come in to finish the last part of the lyric] "...will come true."

Beautiful scene, really. The chorus assisting the animation is delightful... I watched Bambi and Lady and the Tramp (Bella Notte <3) a lot growing up because I loved that old-timey choral work. So dreamy...

Additional funny/sweet bit: I like how Mickey was freaking out to the point of being pinned down over Riku being unceremoniously dropped into Quadratum via Fairy Godmother's spontaneity and enabling.

'You sent my son to the big city ALONE?! He could get mugged, he could get lost, he could get hate-crimed, he could-'

*jump cut to Riku, and he's trying to gauge the value of Earth Money by spying on hot dog stands. He sheds his first known tear of the series by trying to figure out public transit routes*

Anyway, in the words of Cid:

"But what happens next?!"

[justsomerandomfanfic]

Frog Prince - Thor Odinson X Female Reader

Title: Frog Prince

Thor Odinson X Female Reader

Additional Characters: Reader's parents (Mentioned), Enchantress/Fairy Godmother (Mentioned), and other royal people (Mentioned)

Requested by Anon!

Fairy tale / Fantasy / Grimm Fairy Tales AU

WC: 1,649

Warnings: Royal stuff, Reader is a princess, Reader is mentioned to wear a dress, kissing frogs, it's not slime it's mucus, slight angst, crying, curses, and fluff

You wandered the kingdom, tossing your golden ball in the air; catching it every time. You were a princess, of a royal kingdom, blessed with anything and everything you could possibly desire. But, even though you had everything you wanted, you wanted nothing more than a true friend. One that wasn't royal, one that wasn't rude or snarky like those other princesses you've spoken to at monthly tea parties. You wanted someone loyal, understanding, and sweet. Someone who didn't care about royal status or your wealth or reputation. You wanted a best friend, your partner in crime. Someone who liked you, without any ulterior motives or agendas. Someone you could laugh with, cry with, spend hours talking to, spend days together, and share everything you had in common. You wanted someone just as lonely as you.

You entered the small hidden garden, continuing to toss your ball in the air. It was a beautiful day, warm for early April. A single apple tree stood on the edge of the garden, with an apple tree branch hanging down, offering a perfect place to grab a sweet treat. The sky was a clear blue with clouds scattered across the otherwise cloudless sky. You threw your ball in the air, catching it every time. There were so many trees, shrubs of berries, and flowery bushes. You wondered if there would be any butterflies here today. you haven't seen a butterfly in a long time. The snow had only just melted over the winter and the flowers were just blooming. You loved nature, but being a princess required all your attention. Your father insisted that you be a good queen; he didn’t want you wasting your life sitting around playing dress up but listening to boring politics. As much as you hated that stuff, you couldn’t say no. But, sometimes, you did have some free time to go outside and enjoy the gardens.

You found the old well, covered in overgrown vines and soft green moss, nestled within the thick undergrowth and ivy covering most of the area. You sat on the cobble ledge, looking up at the branches swaying above you. After all these years, you never fail to miss the feeling of the sunlight beating down upon you. Even if it's cold out, you always love the warmth of the sun, warming you up from your head to toe, and making you feel comfortable and safe. When it came right down to it, you missed the feeling of the dirt beneath your feet, the smell of dewy grass, and the feel of fresh air blowing through your hair. You sighed. Why was it that even when you had everything you ever wanted, you felt so unhappy?

You tossed your ball in the air, the golden ball reflecting the sun as it fell down, just brushing your fingers as it bounced; landing right in the well with a splash. You gasped, leaning over the ledge of the well, peering down into the dark abyss. You tried to reach for the ball, but the well was too deep. You sat back, feeling defeated before your eyes began to well up with tears. You sniffed, wiping away the tears and trying to regain control of yourself. You wiped your cheeks dry and took in a shaky breath, trying to calm your nerves. before you, a bush rustled, and you looked up from your knees, watching as a small frog jumped out of the green bush. 

It ribbited, looking up at you before hopping on the ledge of the well only a few inches from you. You sighed, tilting your head slightly as you looked at your new friend. "Hello, Mister Froggie." You greeted the frog softly, not wanting to frighten him. "I wish you could speak, little Froggie," You finished. “So, I am not alone.”

The frog ribbited, going up on his back legs, standing as if he was human, before speaking, "If you wish me to speak, your wish may be granted." The frog said, bowing low to you. 

You stared at the frog with wide eyes, "You do speak." You stated, "Or I'm going mad."

The frog shook his head, "No, my princess, you are not mad. I do speak."

"Well," You began, "What may I call you, Mister Froggie?"

The frog bowed once again, "Thor, my princess. At your service."

You giggled, bowing your head, "My name is Princess Y/N, but please, just call me Y/N." You said.

Thor bobbed his head several times. "Then, Y/N, it is a pleasure to meet you. And, if I may ask, why were you crying?"

You frowned slightly, "My ball fell down into the well." You pointed into the well, "I can't get it out."

The frog glanced down in the well, letting out a hum before looking back up at you, "Well, my princess, you are in luck, for I can get your ball for you."

You instantly smiled, "Really?" You asked excitedly, "You can?"

Without another word, Thor hopped down, jumping down into the well. He swam towards the bottom of the well, before pulling himself out with the golden ball in tow, the ball flying out of the well and landing beside you.

"Thank you so much!" You exclaimed, taking the golden ball with both hands and holding it close to your chest; not caring about your dress getting wet. "Whatever can I do to repay you, Thor?"

The frog only shook his head, "You do not have to repay me, my princess. Just being in your presence is payment enough."

You shook your head, still holding onto your gold ball tightly, "Well, I have to give you something." You insisted, setting the ball down beside you. "Do you want food, jewels, clothes?"

Thor only shook his froggie head, "What would I do with such items? I assure you, my princess, I have everything I need."

"Well," You began, "There must be something you wish."

The frog looked off into the garden, before giving a small shrug, "I suppose, I have wished for a kiss. To break my curse. But, my life as a frog is a sweet one. I would miss it."

You furrowed your eyebrows, "You were cursed? To become a frog? By whom?" You asked, instantly intrigued, wanting to know more about this intriguing frog.

Thor nodded his head, "Yes. My curse was cast on my birth by the Enchantress. She cursed me to become a frog, forever. Unless a beautiful princess kisses me and breaks the curse."

"But why?" You questioned.

"I cannot tell you exactly why she did it. But, I do not want you to think you must kiss me, I am content living my life as a frog. I would not persuade you to do such a thing."

You only shook your own head, "There is no pressure, Thor. I would love nothing more than to try and break your curse."

Thor walked over, placing a froggie hand on yours, "Please, my princess, you do not have to do anything you do not want to."

"Nonsense," You replied with a smile. "I want to help you. And besides, I'd rather make your wish come true than not make it at all."

"If you insist, my princess," Thor spoke before you both closed your eyes, leaning down and pressing a kiss against each other's lips. The two of you pulled apart after a brief moment, opening your eyes, they widened as you watched Thor begin to sparkle and shine. 

His form began to change, morphing until a tall, handsome man stood before you, clad in fine red and gold. His long blonde hair shone like spun gold, framing his face. His bright, blue eyes shined like diamonds, piercing through you. His skin was pale and smooth as marble, shining in the sun. He wore the finest clothing you've ever laid eyes on, silks and velvets draped elegantly over his body. He, overall, looked as if he was sculpted by the gods, and you couldn't help but stare. You quickly realized what you were doing, looking away from the man, blushing deeply.

Thor stood tall, glancing at himself as a great big smile graced his face. "The curse, it's broken!" He exclaimed happily, twirling in a circle with almost childlike excitement in his movements. "I am human! Thank you, dear Y/N, thank you so very much." He cried, wrapping his arms around you, and lifting you up high into the air. You let out a laugh, hugging him back.

"Of course." You said, pulling away from him slightly. "I'm happy that we could resolve your predicament."

"But," He stopped, putting you down gently on the ground, gazing deeply into your eyes, "There is still one thing I would request of you."

Your brows arched upwards curiously, "Name it." You offered.

"If you will, will you marry me? For I truly wish to court you, my princess." Thor pleaded, taking your hands in his as he gazed down at you. 

You blinked, looking down at your bare feet, which were still dirty from wandering the garden. You bit your lower lip. Marriage? You never thought the day would come when someone would ask you. But, you just met Thor that day. Was it too soon?

"You want to marry me?" You asked, looking up at Thor with shining eyes. 

He nodded his head, smiling widely. You bit your lip, looking up at Thor. Even though you only had met Thor that day, you felt a spark, electricity, run through your veins upon seeing him. The way he was looking at you… His eyes were so warm and inviting, making you feel incredibly safe in his company. Was he the one you were waiting for?

You smiled, your heart swelling with joy, "I would be honored to, my little Froggie Thor. I'd be honored."

[fire-breathing-pain-in-the-neck]

Angsty headcanon on Rumpel timeline (aka that timeline where Shrek was never born):

Actually, someone had saved Fiona from that tower before she had saved herself... No, not Prince Charming - Fairy Godmother had immediately called him off when King and Queen signed off their crowns to Rumpel - since Fiona was no longer a princess after that, saving her was no longer profitable for them.

However, lord Farquaad had never learned that Fiona was no longer a princess and kept sending knight after knight fo rescue her. Finally, he had sent Thelonious... and, hilariously enough, this brute had managed to outsmart the Dragon and bring Fiona to Duloc. The wedding was immediately commenced, and Fiona and Farquaad kiss a minute before the sunset... But... how horrible Fiona's shock was when she still became an ogress after that! Obviously, Farquaad didn't truly love her. But how much greater her shock was when Farquaad had immediately turned on her and ordered her to be locked up in that damned tower! And how much worse it became when the very same Thelonious that had rescued her... had dragged her back to that tower and dropped her there!

Fiona was depressed for a few months after that... and then had just snapped out of it... But when it happened... she was already a different person. No longer believing in love, destiny, or romance. No longer even thinking about herself as a princess. Then, she immediately started planning an escape on her own.

However, the memory of that incident was still causing so much trauma for Fiona that she had never told anyone about that, even Puss. And even when she met Shrek, she still was only able to lie to him that no one ever had saved her.

Yep, I am just in the mood for angst this evening

ANON!!!

You’re coming through with the godly ask today, oml.

First off, Thelonious being the one to rescue Fiona? Absolutely. Even though Shrek outsmarted Dragon with the chains, I could see Thelonious getting through with dumb luck and brute strength. I mean, we do know he can take some pretty nasty hits and recover fast from Shrek 3D/4D.

(Also, I know they’re almost separate entities, but if Musical Farquaad already wanted to kill Fiona once they were married, I could absolutely see him trying to kill her once he found out she was an ogre and Shrek/Donkey/Dragon weren’t there. Then she would have to escape a bunch of knights coming after her 😬 which that gives a whole other meaning to her rescuing herself!!)

I love the idea, though, of her using the second round of the tower to reevaluate all of her ideologies and what she believes in about love and fairytales. I feel like it would be a good mirror to what Shrek felt in the first movie after he thought she didn’t love him anymore. Just that initial anger and total feeling of betrayal since everything they thought was a lie.

[angst-fairygodmother]

Widower (A Dad!Diego/The Umbrella Academy Fic)

A/N: I couldn’t stop thinking about it. So I am putting it out into the universe. But not actually making it canon (when did the Dad!Diego fics develop a canon? What is life?) so feel free to just pretend it never happened. I just needed to be angsty. Word Count: 1270 Content Warnings: Major Character Death; poorly handled grief; a few well placed swears

It had been a long time since he’d worn black. Ever since Y/N came into his life, he hadn’t felt like he needed it. He could be freer, he could let color in, he could be happy, content.

Eugene squirmed on his lap. The little boy was too young to know what was going on, just that he was uncomfortable in his itchy black baby-sized suit and that he was bored. Maggie knew a little better, in that she sensed that something was wrong, and that he was sad and squirming or complaining were the wrong thing to do. So she sat dutifully beside her father and brother on the hardback chairs, legs swinging slightly, and tried her hardest to be good. 

“Hey Diego,” Allison murmured, suddenly appearing in the row behind him, leaning forward to talk softly to her brother, a tenderness between them that wasn’t usually there. “Do you want me to take the kids tonight, give you a little time to...deal with things by yourself?”

He turned to look back at his sister, so tired of being sad that his expression was completely blank, lifeless behind the eyes.

“T-t-t-t-t-that’s…” he closed his eyes, swallowing the lump in his throat. “I c-c-c-an’t.”

His stutter hadn’t been this bad since they were just young kids, since he had their father scolding him several times a day for not living up to an impossible standard. Her frown deepened.

“Diego, what do you mean you can't? It wouldn’t be an imposition, and…”

He shook his head. “N-no. If I...i-if th-they’r-re n-not…” his voice dropped to a mumble unable to force his mouth to make sounds at full volume. 

“Never s-s-see th-e-em-m ag-g-g-ain,” she managed to catch, and immediately she wrapped her arms around him from their awkward position. Of course after everything that he’d been through this past week that would be his fear. She felt guilty that she hadn’t thought of it right away.

“Oh Diego,” she sighed. “They’ll be alright, I’ll make sure of it. Or I can take them to the Academy, have everyone there to watch out for them. But I understand. As a parent, your kids mean the world to you. We could have a ‘sleepover’ at your place? Me and Claire, and maybe the others?”

He shook his head and opened his mouth to tell her that he’d be okay. But he knew that was a lie. He didn’t think he’d ever be okay again. But all the old habits Y/N had helped him break - the determination that he had to do everything alone and the certainty that he wasn’t allowed to show how he was feeling - came crashing back down around him like prison bars. 

“No,” he snapped, pulling away from her comforting touch. “I’ll h-handle it.”

“If you change your mind…”

“I’m fine, Allison.”

~

“Daddy,” Maggie asked him a few mornings later at breakfast. “W-where’s Mom-my?”

His eyes met her confused and pleading ones, the beat of his heart catching with the familiar skips of her stutter, and something inside him snapped. He dropped to his knees, face buried in his hands. 

“Daddy?” she asked, voice as full of concern as a four-year-old’s could be. 

But in that moment, tumbling head over heels, around and around, in the black hole of his despair, he could no longer hear his daughter. He couldn’t feel it when her little hand tugged at his shirt. Because it required a person to do those things, and he wasn’t anymore. He was nothing but his grief. 

“Diego,” a voice cut through his fugue. He couldn’t remember when he stopped crying, giving in to emptiness instead. There was nothing special about the voice, but something tickled in his mind that said it wasn’t supposed to be there. “Diego, get up.”

He thought he might have shook his head. 

“Diego, please,” the voice asked, begged. “Your children need you.”

Klaus. It was Klaus talking to him. What was he doing here? How did he get into his house? Where had he been at the fucking funeral?

He sat up and shoved at the hands on his shoulders, pushing Klaus away from him with a snarl, like a feral animal, full of hate and pain and fear and nothing somehow all at once.

“Okay. Calm down,” he couldn’t remember the last time he had heard Klaus sound so level. Because of course he wasn’t phased. It wasn’t his wife, the love of his life lying in a coffin under a mound of fresh dirt. 

“What do you want Klaus?” he snapped, choosing anger over the pain or the numbness he had been cycling through.

“Maggie called me. She’s very hard to understand over the phone. But she said you wouldn’t get up and asked me to come fix it.”

“You can’t. You can’t fix this. Nobody can.” His voice started as a growl and faded to a sigh.

“I know that, Diego. But my niece, your daughter, called and she was scared and what else was I supposed to do? Five’s here too, my chauffeur, entertaining the Squirt and the Bean so I could talk to you.”

“Like you actually care.”

“What?! Of course I care. You’re family, all of you. Including Y/N.”

“Then why didn’t you bother to come to the funeral?”

“I don’t mix well with funeral homes or graveyards. I...just couldn’t.”

Diego frowned, wanting to snap at his brother that he should have been there anyway, but knowing that it wouldn’t have been what she wanted. Y/N had understood Klaus’s fears and nightmares almost instinctively and done everything she could to help him with them. She wouldn’t have wanted him torture himself on her account, not when she wasn’t really there anymore. So he pulled back, shifted into a seated position on the floor, sitting across from Klaus and staring off into the distance.

“Have you...seen her?” he asked after a long while, voice flat.

Klaus shook his head regretfully. “Not yet. I can try again to conjure her, for you right now, if you want?”

Diego thought about it, worrying his lower lip between his teeth. Was that what he wanted? In that moment?

“No. Just, if you do find her or however it works, tell her…” he took a deep, shuddering breath, trying to gather the words within him. 

“A-ask her why she le-ft,” he blurted out. “Why she a-bb-bandoned us. I c-c-c-an’t do this al-l-lone without her.” 

Another sob shook his body and he collapsed like a puppet with its strings suddenly cut. Klaus was quick to catch him, holding his brother up. 

“If she had the choice, I’m sure Y/N would have stayed here, for you. But she couldn’t. I know it’s not fair and sucks,” he sighed, thinking of Dave briefly before returning his focus to the matter at hand. 

“You’re not alone,” he continued sagely. “I know it’s not the same as her, but you have all of us, if you’d just stop being so goddamn stubborn and let us help you. Team Zero and all that shit or whatever.”

When Diego looked up, his view danced past Klaus to Five in the doorway, Eugene asleep on his shoulder, tiny fist balled in the lapel of Five’s jacket (he still wore that goddamn uniform so often and it was weird, though Y/N had said it made sense, a sense of identity wrapped in blue linen). 

“We’re all here for you,” the oldest Hargreeves assured. “And for them.” He nodded his head toward his nephew with a faint, fond smile. “No matter what.”

[magic-multicolored-miracle]

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Leverage Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Major Character Death Relationships: Alec Hardison/Parker/Eliot Spencer Characters: Alec Hardison, Parker (Leverage), Eliot Spencer (Leverage) Additional Tags: OT3, Post-Canon, Angst, Heavy Angst, seriously so much angst, I'm genuinely sorry Summary:

He knows he’s going to die for the team. That’s his job, to take the hits so they don’t have to. You can only fight for so long before it catches up with you. Death doesn't faze Eliot Spencer. Failure though, failure kills.

So I started writing Eliot’s death fic (back in December), because as soon as I jokingly said that my legacy in this fandom would be a death fic for each character my brain went “You’re damn right it will! Let’s get started!” And then I realized that the meanest thing I could possibly do was not kill Eliot. To really hurt Eliot Spencer, you can’t kill him, you have to let him survive. 

[fluffyydumplings]

Poof… Where are We?

Witch One Will Win? - Part 9

Summary: Melted into dust, they descend to a wonderous wonderland of yellow!

Word Count: 738

Pairings: writer!reader x witch!yoongi x writer!jimin / alien!jungkook x vampire!hoseok x werewolf!taehyung

Genre: fluff / crack!au / angst / fantasy!au / sci-fi!au

Warning: none (please do tell me if you find any)

A/N: @hobateas heehee! Heehee! Heee! Longest chapter I have written in a long while.. Very close to the end! That’s where the sci-fi parts kick in.. I love how nonsensical yet fun this fic is. I have so much fun writing it… truly :)

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Series Masterlist

*And poof they went?*

‘And I didn't even get to glare at the other two,’ with his fingers on the bridge of his nose, Jimin sighs.

‘Amber village?’ hoseok looks around, the yellow glistening stones that surround him almost too bright for his eyes to handle.

‘I think so, Hyung..’

‘Me too, Hyung,’ they both nod their heads absentmindedly in agreement.

*cling*

*clang*

*bing*

*bang*

*bong*

*boong*

‘Bibi di bobi di boo boo.. That’s not my line,’ she shakes her head around, a sardonic smile on her pretty little face.

‘Yoongi.. Fairy Godmother of Amber Ville,’ the map disappears from the grasp of their hands.

‘Your map is- wrong,’ she points her wand at the brown scroll.

‘You should throw it away...’

*a moment of utter silence*

‘Noooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!’

‘Okay.. You can have it back..’ she tosses it at them.

‘Thank yo-’

‘Don’t thank me just yet.. You’ll have to go pick up rice grains soon.’

‘Rice grains?’ oh Jungkook was about to have a migraine.

‘Amber old oh village.. Don’t be fooled! That little pile of amber there,’ she teleports there, her fingers grazing that of the amber.

‘That’s all they’ve got,’ in a whisper like secrets shared between friends, she breaks out into laughter.

‘The people want to make scorched rice soup.. That’s what picking up the rice grains are for..’

‘But? How? What?’ hobi is in shambles.

‘Rice on this side of the world is guarded in a chest by a dragon.’

Oh, this would be the perfect moment for Tae to faint..

‘Excuse me..’

‘Excuse me?’ Yoongi flutters along the daisy path and displays a confused look on her face.

‘Yes...’

‘But... Where is this dragon?’

‘There...’

Yoongi seems to end up pointing at everything today..

‘The hole over there? In the ground?’ Tae has hands over his mouth as his eyes budge with horror.

‘Do you have fireproof shields, fairy Godmother?’ Tae pleads with his eyes.

*awkwardness permeates through the air*

‘Just call me Yoongi,’ she was on the brink of tears... Was it of anger, was it of irritation or was it because she accidentally inhaled powdered sugar from the sweet you gifted her two hours ago.

‘Yes ma’am..’

‘Yes yes..’

‘Indeed..’

They all say after one another..

‘Mr dragon! Excuse me, Mr Dragon!’

He is replied with nothing but a breath of warm air that permeates through his soul -the poor tae-shaped soul...

*cue tutorial music*

‘How to Defeat a Dragon!’

‘A guide by Kim Taehyung,’ Hoseok says, not without the presence of a big big frown on his face.

‘Try One!’ Jungkook announces, dragged into yet another one of the elder’s silly role-playing..

‘Try to scare the dragon!’

They both stare at the boy who wears two pairs of teeth as a smile.. He’s grinning widely.. almost as though he was showing you how to make brownies - the kind with extra sprinkles mixed in.. for extra colour rather than flavour..

‘Rawrrrr..’

And he is blown away, as the other two are taken by surprise.. Do they clap, do they scream or do they pay for his hospital bill…

‘I’m okay,’ a thumbs up that signifies his well-being - or simply the fact that he is still breathing.. however much there is left of it at least..

‘Try Two.. Be One With The DRAGON!’

‘Hobi Hyung, Jungkook! Be scared, for I am a dragon!’

And they sit there despondent, terri- they don’t know him!

‘I doubt a dragon would know who we are!’ Jungkook screams dramatically over to Tae.

‘Humans! Scoundrels! Bastards! I am a dragon, therefore you should be scared of me!’

And they sit there with nothing but disgust on their faces..

‘Try three.. Fight the dragon!‘

With their teeth clenched, ‘I don’t think it’s a good plan, Tae.’ ‘I don’t either..’

‘Ahhh… Ahhhh… I don’t want to hurt it!’

‘Try four,’ with fake tears grazing his eyes, he continues to speak his heart out.

‘Befriend the dragon!’

‘Dear dragon, sir- Would you consider befriending the likes of me? I am kind, very kind.. and most of all - very kind.. I am a werewolf in my prime.. We wolves don’t age much though… But, yes.. I am a werewolf..’

The dragon eyes Tae with suspicion..

‘I doubt it understands you, Tae,‘ Hoseok blinks along with that of Jungkook.

‘Try Four,’ with a tired screech on his face, he says once again.

*poof*

‘What in the-’

—

Tae’s Moodboard

—

[raineydays411]

Ember

Tony Stark X Daughter!Reader 

Warning: Child neglect, swearing, angst, death 

Summary: After being kidnapped by Hydra, Y/N does some reflecting on her home life. Especially her relationship with her father

italics = past pov

Bold= thoughts

Italic bold= ghosts 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You never thought your life would end like this. Alone, trapped in a Hydra cell, full of anger and resentment for the one man who was never supposed to break your heart. Of course, up until now you had been pretty optimistic your father would realize the error of his ways and miraculously spend years making up for years of missed recitals, ignored achievements, and multiple other offenses. You always forgave him because, hey the man was a member of the Avengers, what should you expect having Tony Stark as a father? 

But right now, as you lay on the cold, damp floor, writhing in pain from whatever glowey nuclear shit those assholes injected you with, you can’t help but remember the mistreatment and neglect bestowed upon you by your father. 

It was, it was September Winds blow, dead leaves fall

You’ll always remember that September day. The day your entire life had changed 

You were only eight when Loki tried to take over New York. You and your mom were coming home from the store when all of a sudden, people around you started to panic. Looking up, you saw a large portal in a once clear blue sky. Creatures appeared out of no where, destroying anything in their way. Your mother, terrified, took you by the hand and headed for a near by building. But, it seemed that others had that idea as well. Before you knew it, your vision was overwhelmed by the bodies of citizens trying to escape the chaos outside. After a few seconds, you found yourself in a crowed parking garage and no idea where your mother was.

You never saw her again after that.

After three days of searching, the police declared her dead and you were sent to live with your godmother, Pamela Isely. 

She was good to you. She held you through nightmares, told you stories about how your mother and her met, and even taught you how to take care of plants. The only complaint you had was that she would usually leave you alone every once in a while and come back with a lot of money, and occasionally, a loud blonde woman in a clown costume would come through the window and pinch your cheeks too hard. Other than that, you got adjusted to your new life quickly.

Four months passed and your life changed again. It was a cold September day, and you had just got home from school. As you walked into the apartment, you immediately felt a tension in the air, and you saw a man at the table with your Aunty Pam, who looked extremely uneasy and pale. They stared at you until your Aunt spoke.

“Y/N...you’re going back to New York.”

Those words alone made the floor fall from underneath you. You had just settled down. You finally felt comfortable without your mother in the world and now this?? Then the man cleared his throat, causing you to snap back into reality. 

“Y/n, my name is Tony Stark”

 You knew that name, he was the man in the metal suit who helped save New York. You didn’t care at the moment though, you just wanted to know why you were leaving your aunt.

Ignoring Tony, you looked at your aunt and whispered,

 “ Did...did I do something wrong?” 

Immediately, Pams eyes filled with tears as she quickly gathered you in her arms and responded with a loud, 

“Oh no, darling of course not”, She then proceeded to tell you the uncomfortable looking man at the table was in fact your father, who up till now you had never met. In fact, you never even fathomed the idea of having a father as your mom had always told you that you were a gift from some fairies she helped. You turned to the man who quietly sat at the table and looked over the man who was said to be your father.

He was definitely a handsome man. He wore a fancy looking suit and some tinted glasses even though he was inside. His hair was dark brown and messy, as if he was tugging or running his fingers through it. His skin looked to be am olive color but it was hard to tell as he looked kind of pale in the light of the small apartment you called home. You thought it was odd he hadn’t said anything other than introducing himself. 

“ Is it true? Are you really my dad?” You asked in a quiet voice.

He finally spoke, “Yeah kid, I’m your dad”

To you, I did surrender

Two weeks, you didn’t call

It’s been two weeks since you were taken by Hydra. Two weeks since you were injected with that mystery substance. You didn’t die, at least you don’t think you did. But you didn’t exactly feel alive either. You were colder than usual, like your body temperature lowered. You slept longer than normal especially the first three days after you were injected. The guards had to wake you up just to get you to eat. But the most worrying symptom of all is that your eyes were the same shade of neon blue as the liquid that was injected into your body. And everytime your eyes turned blue, something weird would happen. 

For example, the first time you noticed your eyes were blue, you woke up from the first long sleep.The second time, you thought you heard voices, screaming in agony and despair.This was odd because you were the only one in that cell block. As you came back to reality, you realized that you could see other ghostly figures in the once empty cells, and that you were floating three feet above your bed. 

Within the two weeks you were in that cell, you learned that that day you were injected, your heart did stop for an hour until you miraculously sprung back to life with a loud gasp, scaring the absolute shit out of the Hydra guards that were tasked with disposing your body. That would go through physical changes as well. Your once brown skin would change to a pale ghostly blue. And your black kinky hair would change to a shocking neon blue to match the color of your eyes.

For two weeks, you learned the ins and outs of your newfound powers. Two weeks of being pushed to your absolute limits by power hungry scientists. Two weeks of learning the names of the dead around you in those cells. 

It took two weeks, to realize that your father truly didn’t care about you.

And looking back on it, you should’ve known

Your life, goes on without me  My life, a losing game

It had been a year since you had moved into the Avengers Tower with your father. It had taken you a while to warm up to the team and for the team to get used to having a child around. But once you all got to know each other, it was like having multiple aunts and uncles. Especially because you were around them more than your own father. 

Unfortunately, once you had settled in and gotten to know everyone, Tony had locked himself away in his lab. Tinkering on a new project for weeks on end, ignoring his responsibilities as a new father.

Now, this didn’t really affect you till you started school. Tony had forgotten to pick you up multiple times, causing you to wait for hours on end till either Steve or Pepper realized that you hadn’t come home and rushed to the school , only to see you waiting on the front steps talking the ear off of the unlucky teacher who had to stay behind to wait with you.

Of course word got around that Y/N Stark was being forgotten at school everyday, thus prompting the kids at school to taunt you everyday after school.

“Where's your daddy Y/N??”

“I bet he leaves you here so you can get kidnapped so he doesn’t have to look at you”

“Your own dad doesn’t even love you”

Once you got to middle school, you joined as many after school clubs to hide the fact that there was no one to pick you up. And a small part hoped that it would be enough to gain your fathers attention. But it didn’t happen.

“Daddy! I made the volleyball team!”

“hmm, oh that's great kid, can you pass me that wrench”

“Dad! I’m in the robotics club”

“Y/N I’m really busy right now”

“ Hey dad...can you help me with--”

“Not now, go ask Pepper”

No matter what you did, you could never get his attention long enough. Nothing you did was good enough. You never got so much as a “welcome home” or a “ have a good day at school kiddo”. And you were fine with that. You were, because you knew that even though he didn’t show it, Tony Stark really did love you.

But you should, you should not doubt me You will remember my name.

After learning the extent of your powers, which included; flying,the ability to talk and see the dead, energy blasts, floating through walls, and the ability to shut off your powers at will. You decided it was time for you to make plans to escape. 

You’d like to think that you were really good at pretending. 

You did it on a daily basis, really. You pretended to be happy, not to notice Tony’s neglect, like you didn’t see the pity glances the rest of the team gave you. So convincing your captors that they finally broke you down wasn’t really a challenge. 

“....fine..i’ll help you” You said in a tired weak voice.

The two guards were startled at first, not expecting you to speak so suddenly

“You..what?” The younger of the two asked in a suspicious tone.

“I said I want to help you” you repeated a little louder. 

The first guard looked to the second, obviously confused at your sudden change of heart. They had a silent conversation with their eyes, as if debating on whether this was a trick or not. Finally, the older of the two turned to you and said,

“This better not be a trick, Stark.”

And with that, he started to unlock the door to your cell. 

“Okay, now I can either fight them now  and make a break for it, or I can wait till i get to the--” 

Your thoughts were cut off by a loud wailing, piecing your ears and automatically giving you a headache. Wincing in pain you look around the empty cell blocks and try to locate the spirit that’s making all that noise. When you see it, your heart breaks. It’s a young boy, around your age. The first thing you notice about him is that he had white hair, kinda Danny Phantom. As you continued to stare at the boy, his head suddenly turned and you both made eye contact, the movement startling you enough to make you jerk in the hold of the guards

“ HEY, eyes forward!” shouted the older guard. “There's no way out, if that's what you're looking for’ He said in a smug tone.

“I said I wanted to join you, why would I want to escape?” You reply, irritation dripping from your words.

“Just don’t pull any tricks kid.”

God does he have any other lines, you think to yourself mentally rolling your eyes. Sounds familiar.

Oh Ember, you will remember

Oh Ember, one thing remains

“Y/N I’m busy, go as--” “I know, go ask Pepper”

“Oh kid, I’m sorry I forgot” “ yeah, I know”

“You’re on the volleyball team” “ yes dad. For four years now”

“Y/N! I’m gonna be in the lab with Peter so try not to bother us.”

“Y/N me and Peter--”

“Good job, Peter”

“Hey Peter--”

God were you tired of that name. You never ever felt the feeling of envy and anger as much as you did when Peter came into your life. 

In fact, you were still healing from almost losing your family you found in the Avengers. Your dad didn’t want you around the “traitors” as he privately called them, so you were secluded. Watching them from afar and yearning for the comfort of hearing Steves pre-war stories, helping Clint pull off the most ridiculous pranks, helping Wanda teach Vision how to cook, and most of all you missed talking to Natasha. She reminded you of your aunt Pam, mainly because they both had red hair. You hoped that your father would understand this loss and step up now that you really needed a connection, but no. He decided that Peter Parker deserved all his attention. So you stopped trying as hard.

Oh Ember, So warm and tender You will remember my name

You walk into a room with a singular table and no windows. Sat at the table was a bald man writing in a notebook. The two guards lead you to the table and make you sit opposite of the bald man. He looks up at you and smiles.

“So, Ms. Stark has finally decided to comply?” He asks in a smug tone. You roll your eyes and answer back in a sarcastic tone,

“Yeah yeah, just cut the crap and tell me what you want me to do.”

The bald man just smiles and looks at you, as if trying to read your mind to figure out your motives. 

“Well”, he says, leaning back into his chair. “Lets get down to business.” He then proceeds to talk about the process of join his team and what you will be doing. But you don’t hear a word of it. Because you were going to escape this hell hole one way or another. 

“Well then, lets get you changed.” said the bald man. “Yeager, Jennings, take our guest to to her new room. 

“Huh so they do have names.” You think, as they pull you out of the chair and into the hallway. Walking back into the cell block, you make eye contact with that white haired boy again. He’s quiet as he watches you walk back to your room, then he disappears. 

You finally get back to your cell and notice a pair of black spandex, black halter top, grey boots and some black gloves on the floor. Changing into them, you take your hair into a pineapple with a hair tie they had given you. Looking into the piece of metal you used as a mirror, you changed into your ghost form. Suddenly, you hear a male voice behind you.

“Don’t let them know you can do that.” 

You startle and turn around, only to see none other than the white haired boy. He looked equally as startled as he realized you can see and hear him. 

“Why not?” you asked, changing back to your normal self.

“Because, they won’t ever let you leave.You’re already the first one to survive the injection. If they realize you can go ghost, they’ll do everything in their power to control you.”

Your mind flashed to Bucky. How Steve told you that they kept him. Brainwashing him over and over till he just became a weapon. You were not going to let them do that to you. You looked back at the boy.

“Can you help me get out of here?” you asked hopefully. The boy looked at you and said, 

“Well I’ve got nothing else to do.” You let go a sigh of relief. You were about to say something when you heard Yeager and Jennings walking down the hallway.

“They’re coming” You whisper, “ what do I do?”

“This base is small. All the people here are the only ones who know about it. They’re all going to be in the training room you’re being taken to. Wait till you get there, phase into the floor to the basement and blow up the heater. That should cause the whole building to cave in” 

You again don’t get to respond, as the two men finally get to your cell and unlock it. You walk out of the cell, head held high and allow them to lead you to the training room. Despite the look of confidence, you were dreading the next few moments. 

“So how come I’m the only one here?” you ask, even though you know the answer. The older guard looks at you and says

“You’re the only one who survived.” You fake a look of shock and look forward as if the news made you uneasy. And it did. It made you mad that these people didn’t care that they were murdering innocent people. They couldn’t hear the cries and the wails of agony these poor trapped souls emitted. In a way, it was ironic. Back at the tower, you were the poor soul nobody could see. And now you were surrounded by them.

Your heart, your heart is rendered Your loss, now bear the shame

This was the last straw. There was only so much you an take before you broke and this was it.

 Tony didn’t intend for you to hear it, but god did it hurt all the same. One phrase shattered your whole world. 

“You know Spiderling, your kinda like the kid I always wanted to have.”

An tense silence filled the common room. The first time in months you were able to see th eteam and they had to bear witness to this. Of course they did, who else would give you that stare full of sorrow and pity. You barely even noticed though. You were too busy looking at the “heartwarming scene.”

“that's such bullshit” Oh, how you wish you had a camera if only to capture the look of pure “oh shit” painted on Steve's face.

“What..what was that kid?” Asks your father. You turn to him, a fury in your eyes that nobody has ever seen.

“THAT IS ABSOLUTE BULLSHIT.”  You scream. “ FOR EIGHT YEARS I HAVE TRIED SO HARD FOR YOU TO LOVE ME. EIGHT YEARS I JOINED CLUBS, GOT THE HIGHEST GRADED IN CLASS AND FOR WHAT?” 

Tony and Peter look at you in shock “Y/n..wha..what are you talking about?” Peter asks in a baffled voice.

“Oh eat shit Peter! You know exactly what I’m talking about! Do you not find it weird, that your new mentor spends every single second of free time he has on you and not with his daughter?? Or are you so needy for some sort of parental validation that you don’t even care??” 

Deep down you know it’s not Peters fault. Hell, you two probably could have been good friends if your dad wasn’t such a tool. 

“Hey kid, I don’t know what's gotten into you, but that was way over the line.” Said Tony in a stern voice. Your eyes harden.

“Oh, did I hurt your poor little spiders feelings?? I didn’t even know you cared about other peoples feelings Tony? Or is it just your daughters that you ignore ?”

“What are you talking about? I don’t ignore you, stop being so over dramatic.”

OVERDRAMATIC?? DO YOU REALIZE THE ONLY THING YOU KNOW ABOUT ME IS MY NAME??” You are now sobbing. “ Do you even know my favorite color? How old I am?” 

Tony looks at you, eyes wide.”Y/N...” You cut him off

“Just forget it. I understand now. I will never be important to you. Not like Peter apparently is. I just wish it didn't take me eight years to figure that out.” And with that, you run out of the room, tears running down your cheeks and ignoring the calls of your father, the team, and Peter. 

You run for a few blocks and cry in an alleyway. not the smartest idea but you were too upset to care. And as you cry, you don’t notice the dark shadow behind you before its too late and the world goes dark.

Like dead trees, in cold december  Nothing but ashes remain

The hydra base was now engulfed with flames.  Your body was tired from phasing through the walls, and your head hurts from those energy blasts. But one thing brings some happiness in your heart as you watch all the souls that were trapped there realize they are free. All but one, the white haired kid. He walks up to you. 

“So you did it.” He says with a smile. You smile back. 

“Yeah I did.  Thanks to you.”

“Blue suits you.” he says with a blush. You squint at him for a second and let out a chuckle. 

“Thanks” ,You’re both silent for a few seconds, watching the souls leave. You speak up again. 

“Why aren’t you leaving like them” You question him.

“I don’t know, I guess my time here isn’t up.” he says looking out at the horizon. You nod and look at around trying to figure out where you are. 

“So, what are you going to do next” he asks. Your body stiffens as you are filled with resentment.

“I’m going to visit my father.” You say, eyes glowing a neon blue.

You will remember my name.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A/N: HI!so this is my first ever fanfic! i hope anyone who reads this enjoys it!! Let me know what you think and what i can improve on!💕

[y-jw1]

빼빼로데이 ─ pepero day

pairing. baekseung × reader

genre. fluff & angst if you squint

word count. 1.2k words

synopsis. oh how you wished pepero day would be special for you just like what you read in books and watch in movies. somehow, the fairy godmother had other plans for you, though?

now playing. gani ( feat. nathania & harms ), " puppy love"

note. wrote this at 12 am and i'm so sleepy lol i know i'm late for pepero day but let's not mention that HAHAHAHAHAH anyways have a great day ahead, everyone !

NOVEMBER 11 = PEPERO DAY.

everyone dreaded and loved this day as you observed throughout the years of school. boys from higher and lower levels were holding boxes of the said snack, rocking their heels back and forth as they make a little speech for the person they wanted to confess to. girls were also happily confessing to their crushes too. some were shy and some were confident. it was fun looking at them.

you didn't show it but you wanted someone to give you pepero too. no, not just some random person but the person you like─ the person you have feelings for. and that someone is─

" why are you looking all single there? i thought today was pepero day?" an arm wrapped around your shoulder as the bubbly voice of your bestfriend was made known, the tall boy smiling at you.

" shut up. you don't have to rub how single i am into my face, woo" you say, shoving him away from you. he laughs as he flinches from your hands, apologizing lightheartedly and slung his arm around your shoulder again. the close approximity makes your cheeks burn and your heartbeat accelerate, making you discretely shy away.

kim hyunwoo─ that little ( giant ) shit. as much as he ticked you off at times, you cherished him so much. he was your bestfriend and of course, the boy you liked. cliché, right? fate had to assign you into this mess and you knew it wouldn't end well.

trailing your eyes towards hyunwoo, you realize he was holding a little box of pepero. the box was decorated, though clumsily, which you're sure he decorated last night─ and pepero boxes in it. you sigh inwardly, knowing he would confess to the person he liked. no matter what─ no matter how much you'd assume, no matter what you'd think, he'd have feelings for someone else.

it's alright, of course, because as long as hyunwoo was happy, you were too.

" who's the unlucky person you're giving your worn-out box to?" you ask and the boy beside you gasps at your insult, clutching his chest as he feigned fake disgrace. you snicker at him as he argues about how much effort he made over the box and how he spent his pocket money of today for all the materials and the pepero boxes.

" and did you know? the saleslady didn't want to give me this ribbon stickers! i had to force her to give it to me because i'm sure the person i'd give this to would love it!" he continued to ramble on as you arrived in front of your classroom, immediately sitting down on your seat with of course, hyunwoo.

you watch him excitedly putting down the box in front of him, smiling to himself as he fixed some decorations on the side. keum donghyun, who was in front of him, teased the boy beside you for being so whipped.

" who are you giving that to? seems like you made so much effort for that, huh?"

" of course! this is kim hyunwoo we're talking about!"

snickering to yourself, you watch your bestfriend brag about whatever he made last night to donghyun. the person he'd give that to would be so lucky, you thought as you stare at hyunwoo with a smile on your face.

" at the end of classes, i'll be confessing already!"

" what if your pepero gets crushed? pepero crumbs?"

" shut up, yejun!"

and dismissal came pretty quickly. watching hyunwoo excitedly dash out of the classroom without saying goodbye to you made you a little sad but you knew today was a special day for him. you were just his bestfriend and nothing else─ so why would you interfere over a matter you aren't even part of?

" hey, you want a pack of pepero? i bought too much and the person i confessed to doesn't like sweets" minwoo asks kindly, pointing at his now significant other and sliding you a pack of pepero. you smile, thanking him as you exit the room. staring at the pack of pepero, you smile contentedly as you walked towards you and hyunwoo's favorite place─ the bench by the school's garden.

spotting no one but you, you sighed and sat down and placing your bag beside you. you wanted to ask hyunwoo how his confession was and if he had gotten himself someone a date but you somehow figured your should leave him alone right now, thinking he's very much happy with the person he gave his pepero to.

because who would even reject hyunwoo? you must be stupid if you do! ( not kidding )

and before you could open the pepero minwoo gave you, a box falls onto your lap─ making you yelp and the pepero pack flies away. you were about to complain at the person throwing a random box at you when you catch a glimpse at the ribbon stickers decorared on the box.

" don't eat pepero packs of someone who didn't even confess to you, stupid" the familiar voice makes you freeze, holding hyunwoo's box in your hands as you dared yourself to look up─ and speak of the devil, he stood in front of you with a lopsided smile tugged on his face.

" don't throw your peperos, idiot! you can't give this to your crush if it's all damaged" you scold, clicking your tongue as you set the box down beside you carefully. thankfully, the box was still alright and you caught it well but hyunwoo just chuckled.

" that's right─ always handle packages with care. give me that and i'll confess to the person i like already" he says grumpily, taking the box and held it tight in his hands. you were about to shoo him away when he stood in front of you, looking down at you with a smile on his face.

" what do you want now─"

" happy pepero day" hyunwoo says quietly, almost a whisper, as he extends his hands to give you the box. your eyes widen at him, almost as if you were frozen in your spot. it wasn't that you didn't like it─ you loved it, but the boy you liked confessing to you? this must've been a dream you wouldn't and couldn't wake up to unless your alarm blares through your eyes.

" accept it, please! i'm so embarrassed now!" hyunwoo's voice snaps you back to reality, the boy still extending his arms out and his face turned to the side. a brush of pink adorned his cheeks as he rocked his feet back and forth.

" happy pepero day to you too, hyunwoo"

" and i like you, of course. if you didn't know what all this means" he continues, avoiding eye contact and all. you scoff at him, hitting his arm and pulling him close to you to engulf him into a hug.

" of course─ i like you too, hyunwoo" you whisper, making him let out a little chuckle as he wrap his arms around your frame and leaning his head against yours.

somehow, pepero day wasn't so bad this year around, right?

[jetaimin]

bts fic recs : v

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headcanons

✾ ✫ ❦  stuck with you | roommates! au — @jungshookz​

drabbles

✾  must protect scared human | established relationship! au — @bubmyg​

✫  moving out | exes! au — @jkslug​

one-shots

✾ ✫ ❦  heart is where the home is | airport! au — @gukyi​

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✾ ✫ ❦  waterloo | artist! au — @kinktae​

✾ ✫ ❦  fake love | arranged marriage! au — @mygsii​

✾ ✫ ❦  the art of broken love | best friend’s ex! au — @moonlightchildz​

✾ ✫  our last summer | broken relationship! au — @strawberrynamjoon​

✾  foul mouth | ceo! au — @/jkslug

✾ ✫ ❦  paper cranes | childhood friends! au — @aquaminwrites​

✾  falling, falling, gone | college! au — @johobi​

✾ ✫  out of the blue | college! au — @jimlingss​

✾ ✫  white hibernation | cursed! au — @akinnie75​

✾ ✫  on your mind | enemies to lovers! au — @glassbangtan​

✾ ✫  love is not over | exes! au — @rookiegukie​

✾ ✫ ❦  until yesterday | exes! au — @/jimlingss

✾  a fair(y) crime | fairy godmother! au — @/jimlingss

✾ ✫  kismesis | fake dating! au — @sincerelyourfangirl​

✾ ✫  moon child | fantasy! au —@/akinnie75

✾ ✫  the tales of a no body | fantasy / pinocchio! au — @/akinnie75

✾  breath of spring | florist! au — @cupofteaguk​

✾ ✫  limbo | guardian angel! au — @inktae​

✾ ✫ ❦  seoksanhwa | historical! au — @/gukyi

✾ ✫  who they say you are | historical! au — @/glassbangtan

✾ ✫ ❦  consequences | hogwarts! au — @/cupofteaguk

✾  love, guaranteed | hogwarts! au — @/gukyi

✾  roses and butterscotch | hogwarts! au — @btshogwartsfics​

✾ ✫  victorious | how to train your dragon! au — @/gukyi

✾ ✫  rent-a-boyfriend | love service! au — @/jimlingss

✾ ✫ ❦  black marauder | pirate! au — @fantasybangtan​

✾ ✫ ❦  baby, i | pregnancy! au — @jiminsfault​

✾ ✫  papillon | pregnancy! au — @readyplayerhobi​

✾ ✫  good luck charm | roommates! au — @/gukyi

✾ ✫ ❦  broken rings & queens and kings | royal! au — @/gukyi

✾ ❦  along the boardwalk | skater boy! au — @/cupofteaguk

✾ ✫  away from the sun | soulmate! au — @/inktae

✾ ✫  spectrum | soulmate! au — @today-we-will-survive​

✾ ✫  the maze to you | soulmate! au — @/cupofteaguk

✾  i am a dog | yeontan’s pov! au — @kpopisthereasonihavenolife​

two-shots / three-shots / series

✾ ✫  schemes and tricks to win her heart | best friends! au — @crystaljins​

✾  the president’s son | bodyguard! au — @/jimlingss

✾ ✫  funhouse | fairground! au — @golden-yoongi​

✾ ☏  star-crossed | fake dating! au — @gukooky​

✾ ✫ ❦  see you | fangirl x idol! au — @gimmesumsuga​

✾ ✫ ❦  chism | fantasy! au — @kpopfanfictrash​

✾  love so shallow | friends to lovers! au — @/jimlingss

✾ ✫  unspoken rules | friends with benefits! au — @latetaektalk​

✾ ✫  worshippers of the sky | mythology! au — @/jimlingss

✾ ✫ ❦  only you | soulmate! au (incomplete two-shot, but part 1 is already more than perfection by itself [+ it’s a whopping 40k monster]) — @inkedtae​

[notnctu]

POV | PART TWO

━ ❝ i’d love to see me from your point of view.❞

❀ lee donghyuck x fem!reader ❀ genre - slow burn, fluff! angst, (optional smut is marked with ****) ❀ details - best friends to lovers!au, college!au, ft. best friend mark, slice of life?, inspo by pov by ariana grande ❀ word count - 6.1k ❀ warnings - swearing, dangerous reckless behavior, fingering, penetration, public?sex?, unprotected, slight dirty talk ❀ synopsis - Donghyuck gradually falls in love with you, his best friend, through unprecedented intimate moments that reveal more than what meets the eye and a drunken shared kiss on your birthday makes him realize how hard he’s fallen for you. You’re oblivious to it all, trying to indulge and seek a one true love through bad tinder hookups or men you meet at the club, all to only end in self doubt that Donghyuck has to reconcile. And he always tells you what you need to hear, while also leaving out the part where he so badly wishes you can love yourself the way he loves you.

❀ a/n - make sure you read the first part as it’s a continuation! please please leave me feedback, i would really appreciate it :) this is going to be my last long fic for the time being! thanks for dealing with my spam for the past few weeks after months no of writings <3

READ PART ONE

Donghyuck thought about that kiss every night since it happened, yet knowing you didn’t do the same. How unfortunate it was, when he panicked waking next to you in the morning and wondering if you were to confront him about it. However, there was nothing, no follow up. You didn’t remember it and he couldn’t tell if the sigh that left his mouth that morning was out of relief or despair. 

Regardless, that became his epiphany and the more his love for you grew, the more he wished to be around you for all his days. Donghyuck jumped at every text message, picking up the phone to see if it was you and noting the disappointment in his heart whenever it wasn’t. He found himself smiling whenever your name was brought up, fondly thinking of how you make his heart race. 

The moments that you were together, he swears on every universe that he’s the happiest he’s ever been. There’s something about you that makes him want to believe in love, and it’s not because of your unrealistic desires to find one. As selfish as he came to be, he wanted you all to himself and to be the sole reason behind your smiles.

“No Mark?” Asking as you hop into Donghyuck’s car, the clock on his dash reading the red digital numbers 2:12 A.M. 

“Why can’t we just hang out for once?” He whines, but hopes that it’s playful enough to where you can’t tell that he’s actually serious. Donghyuck hears your melodic chuckle and everything inside him rumbles with glee and satisfaction. 

He steals quick peeks over at you in the passenger seat, greedily taking in your appearance. “That’s not exactly how a throuple works, but I’ll let it pass. Mark never has time for us anyways.” 

There is something so intimate about the late nights; the outside world is dead in its sleep and vulnerable to chaos. The streets are completely empty and it truly feels as if it’s you two against the city. It brings no regulations, easy escapes, staying up all night to feel something the day can’t give you. 

You are the perfect person to spend them with. You’re the very definition of a good feeling, where he’s forgetting all his bad days and soaring through the heavens. The most accurate human form of excitement, the adrenaline and sweetest thrills that run throughout his body. 

“There’s something I’ve always wanted to do…” As Donghyuck pulls into a gas station parking lot, the small convenient store is brightly lit with a blinding white sign that reads a popular chain establishment. 

Hyuck blinks at you curiously, head tilt and waiting for you to finish your sentence. Getting out of the car, you stand on your toes and rest your chin on the roof of his car to speak directly to him, “you know that big intersection over on 34th Boulevard?” He catches the mischievous twinkle that shines in your eyes and a grin so fearless fits your face perfectly.

He nods, spinning his car keys on his finger and walking up to the store. But he’s looking back at you with eyes that ask for you to proceed with him, and you’re running towards him with a sudden youthful energy and a jump in your step. 

Your hand latches onto his arm and his gaze drops momentarily to follow it, “I’ve always wanted to just run down the middle of it. To run down a busy traffic area when it’s empty, knowing that this would be the only opportunity to do it without getting run over.” 

“Is that what you’re suggesting we should do next?” Hyuck opens the fridge and grabs his favorite prepackaged ice cream cone. Your grip on his sleeve tightens, your dazzling eyes never leaving his.

He hands you a random popsicle and you take it mindlessly, your train of thought still trying to convince Hyuck to embark on achieving this new thrill of yours. “If you didn’t have anything else planned…”

“Am I some Fairy Godmother? Granting your wishes to come true?” Using sarcasm to hide his undying desire to scream yes! may be the best thing he’s learned to utilize. However, you don’t need to beg any more when a small smile curves at his lips. He’s more than convinced.

“Ah, a happy couple. You two look great together.” The rather talkative cashier compliments while he rings up the icey treats. 

Just before Hyuck can clarify, you’re pulling him closer by the arm and using your fake saccharine smile. “The best boyfriend ever!” His throat freezes, but he’s following your lead closely. Confusion wandering his thoughts, but heart swelling at your usage of the word boyfriend to reference him. 

The friendly stranger laughs wholeheartedly at your giddy act, completely falling for your overplayed nature of a lovey dovey girlfriend. “He always buys me what I want, like this ice cream. He knows it’s my favorite.” You blink innocently up at him, but he finally understands your malicious motive.

Shooting a glare at you, he complies silently and pulls out his card to pay for both of your treats. “Right. Anything my baby wants.” He says the pet name so easily that it shocks him a bit. 

“Hey, you’re a good man.” The clueless cashier smiles even wider and prints the receipt. With a simple gratitude, you both exit the store and you’re laughing the loudest form of mockery.

Jumping into the car, Hyuck is quick to roll his eyes. “He always buys me what I want.” He imitates your previous statement with a silly voice. “I can’t believe you robbed me.” 

The ridiculous scheme actually managed to work, leaving your stomach to hurt from the intense fit of giggles. “My baby? Where did you learn that?” You say between your spurts of laughter.

Heat rises up his neck, slightly embarrassed. “So what? Nicknames are cute.” He admits bashfully, while shrugging his shoulders nonchalantly. 

Your chuckles die down and you’re leaning over the middle console to get a closer look of his expression. “Really? Didn’t think you were the type. You never used them with your exes.” 

“Around you.” A cringe runs down your spine when you witness Hyuck bite his ice cream, settling back in your seat with a grumble.

“Pet names in private.” Now, his palms grow a bit slick with perspiration. “That’s endearing.” Unwrapping your melting popsicle, you don’t probe him more about the subject. Instead, Hyuck turns up the stereo to drown out any more talk about romantic gestures.

After several rounds of finding street parking, Hyuck finally swerves into a spot situated just before the large six-way intersection. The traffic lights blink in view at the end of the street and in the darkness, there are no cars around. An unfamiliar scene, this place is nothing but a wide open road with five lanes that meet in the middle and lead to six different directions. The white painted lines that divide up the road are as chaotic as it looks during the day filled with traffic.

Nonetheless, you are right. There is no other chance to see it so dead, so empty, so free. 

And you’re already hopping out of the car that Hyuck breaks his daydream and hurries after you. Standing the middle of the road is a dangerous scheme, yet these are the thrill seeking moments that you crave too well. 

Extending your arm out and your palm facing the night sky, you grin enticingly at Hyuck to join you in the middle of the chaotic lines and the adrenaline picks up within him. He, too, matches your smile and lets every form of enthusiasm fuel him. 

“Race you to the end.” Hyuck begins bolting down the long runway, causing you to scoff in disbelief at his sudden challenge. 

The wind that takes flight against his body is crisp on his skin and driving his strands into a wild mess. Turning around, he sees that you’re quick on his tail. However, the one thing that catches his eye… the one thing that makes this moment another one of your most beautiful ones is the utter bliss and peace in your facial expression. 

Eyes are closed and arms are spread out as if you’re letting the wind carry you away. The air slips between the spaces of your fingers and the night is filled with nothing, but your gentle out of breath giggles. 

Donghyuck stops in his tracks right under the colorful traffic lights at your astonishing image. And if you are to open your eyes, you’ll see the marvelous image of your sun waiting for you in the middle of the largest intersection of the city with his mouth slightly agape and marked under a trance.

An exasperated sigh escapes as a puff of smoke and his heart works extra hard to pump oxygen in his veins. In his perspective, the excellent city skyline at the horizon remains your background and you’re running toward him with a breathless joy. Another splitting breathtaking image that will live in his mind for as long as he knows you.

So he throws caution to the wind and though it feels too good to be true, he loves his best friend more than anyone he’s ever come across.

By the end of your rendezvous, you two find a secret rooftop to fully enjoy your silent city. Standing side by side, you both lean with your elbows on the ledge. 

There is something so unspoken and intimate about this very moment, where existing in each other’s presences becomes wholly more comfortable than anything in the world. And this safety allows for vulnerable secrets to spill, for questions that your heart has always been afraid to ask to fall from your lips. 

But you’re not here with just anybody. Donghyuck probably knew what was already on your mind, he just needed you to speak them into existence.

“Hyuck, do you think I’m unlovable?” 

Perhaps, it’s the intimacy that allows for him to talk more confidently about how he views you. Heart over mind, he scoffs in disbelief. “Absolutely not. You’re the most lovable person I know! From your happy giggles to your overall easy going aura. We’re not perfect people, but you’re worth every glance and every praise. I wanted to be with you the very moment you made me laugh.” 

Donghyuck passionately rambles on about your attributes and everything you’ve allowed him to experience over the years of your friendship. While he’s always been there for you, you’re always by his side and making sure he’s living a memorable life. He thanks all his sweetest memories to you, that you are the most impactful person of his entire college experience.

“I came to college thinking I’d have my nose in textbooks all day long, but you fell into my life like an opportunity to escape. I love my nights trying to crush Mark on the leaderboards, but I’d give that up any day to run down a major intersection in the middle of the city with you.” 

With a playful soft chuckle, you say something that practically makes his heart stop and regret oversharing. “You know, from how you describe me… it almost sounds like you’re in love with me.”

“Maybe I am.” He bites the inside of his cheek, unsure what suddenly overcame him. His heartbeat pounds in his ears and he’s anticipating your response, trying every way to decipher the quizzical look on your face. Nevertheless, your hesitation causes him to panic and he intercepts before you can respond. “I meant that as your friend.” 

His heart drops into the pit of his stomach, gaze averting away from you. Lies. Lies. More fucking lies. He should’ve waited to see what you would’ve said. 

Nodding knowingly, you lightly place your hand over his. The warmth of your touch soothes his aching and disappointment. Why is he hurting from a simple look? “I know.” He can’t tell what’s worse, the fact that you truly believe he only loves you as a friend or that you saw right through him and are trying to let him save face. 

“Something happened the night of your birthday that I think I should tell you.” Hyuck sighs out all his frustrations. 

He pulls his hand from underneath yours, “you asked me to kiss you as a birthday favor.” There is no confidence to watch your reaction, his eyes remain focused on the dark city. 

Instead of a painstaking rejection, you laugh wholeheartedly and somehow, he feels much lighter. “And did you?”

“How could I say no to you on your birthday?” Peering over, your fingers softly graze your lips and a wandering look is present in your dazed stare.

“It’s not the first time we’ve kissed, Hyuck.” Smiling at him, Hyuck looks cluelessly at you and doesn’t recall another time. He would’ve remembered. 

“Guess who I stole that same request from?” Your eye lashes bat firmly at him and he gulps at your implied question. There was no way.

“Me? When?” This all causes him to rack his brain of lost files, something he must’ve missed.

Sighing, you bid him a kind smile. “Your birthday party a few months ago. Drunk out of your living mind, you pulled me privately into the kitchen and asked if I could kiss you as a birthday gift.” 

Fuck, no wonder why he couldn’t remember. He didn’t remember a single thing from that night. “It was right after my break up.” 

Nodding, you affirm his realization. “You told me that you felt so lonely, and somehow…. someway… I’ve always made you feel seen. Perhaps, you do the same for me and my drunk ass was bold enough to ask for a similar request.” 

But did you kiss him as if you loved him? With the same amount of love that he did the night of your birthday? 

Nonetheless, you shrug off the topic and move on from it all. “We should go, the sun comes up in a few.” 

Hyuck notes this odd detail. You’re not one to end the nights so abruptly, so it almost seemed as if you didn’t want to speak more about it. 

Perhaps, you did kiss him like you meant it but every fear in your body about loving your best friend stops you from admitting it all. 

Because you shouldn’t love your best friend, but something deep down has always wanted to.

How ridiculous he was to believe that you could ever possibly share the same feelings as him. How foolish he felt the moment you burst into his apartment announcing how you’ve finally found the one after another random Tinder date. 

It’s as the night on the rooftop a week ago didn’t even exist or mean anything to you. But that night ate him up alive, to the point where he sought out love counseling from Mark.

“Oh dude, this is serious.” Mark watches Hyuck pace the room, double around the floorplan with his head in his hands with utter frustration and confusion. You’re the only thing that’s been running through his mind the last few days. 

He grunts and rolls his eyes at how Mark’s face had fallen sullen. “I practically confessed everything I loved about her. It’s pretty serious.”

Mark stands and stops Hyuck by the shoulders, looking dead into his eyes. “I’ve liked her before too and would have done some dumb act to get her to like me back. I get it, Hyuck. So, what do you want to do?”

Donghyuck initially scoffs and tears away from his best friend’s intense stare, “of course you liked her too.” His voice fades out at the end of his sentence. “Mark, I like her so much it’s hard to look at anyone else. She’s…”

“Mesmerizing?” Mark finishes his sentence with a small proud grin on his lips. 

Hyuck couldn’t hold the ridiculous laugh that escapes at how smug Mark looks, but then a silence falls over him. He realizes how perfect that word is to describe you. You are every dazzling trance he’d fawn under. 

“It’s wrong, Mark. She’s our best friend, I can’t ruin us.” Hyuck slumps his shoulders forward and a pout extends. His eyes are wandering the ugly carpet but he’s thinking about every moment you’ve smiled. 

“How did this happen in the first place? I thought you never would’ve liked her…” Mark’s question has Hyuck raking his brain to find his epiphany. “It’s not about your ex, is it? y/n is way too good to be a rebound.” 

“No. This has nothing to do with my old relationships, I genuinely like her… so much.” Hyuck understands the implications in Mark’s sudden abrasive questions. Even it’s difficult for himself to say how it all started and so this has Donghyuck reflecting back on his entire friendship with you.

If only he had noticed your lively smiles sooner, a little earlier, it would have saved him all this time searching for someone who would last. You’ve lasted through every college relationship he’s had and that speaks louder than any confession. 

“I never liked her because I never thought I had a chance. Have you seen her? Our best friend who has 400 matches on Tinder.” Though he blames himself for realizing a little late that he loved you, it was always hard to compete with everyone else. 

“So, what changed then?” 

Hyuck leans against the door to Mark’s room and crosses his arms to contemplate. “Not that I have a chance now, but I can’t hold these feelings back anymore. I want to kiss her until we’re out of breath, to love without any conditions, to be the reason behind her every beautiful moment.” 

Mark raises a confused eyebrow, “but you are.”

“The only reason.” Hyuck speaks his truest desires and Mark coughs aggressively before composing himself. Right, he didn’t stutter one bit. 

So, Hyuck had planned to confess, all until you gave him the very reason he couldn’t. When you showed up unannounced with one of those wide grins that has your eyes shimmering with hope, he just knew something was wrong. All his love and future aspirations were replaced with sheer disappointment and envy.

“I’m falling hard for him.” You begin and your hands are clasped together so innocently. “He brought me to this overlook on a cliff and we just talked for ages. It felt so right and then, he asked to see me again!” Your eyes are completely wondrous and distracted, like the one thought in your mind blocked out everything else. Jumping happily, you’re squealing with excitement thinking about this new person in your life and there is no consideration of Hyuck’s silence.

“That’s… great.” He barely stutters to fill the air and to replace the sound of his heart breaking. He lost you before even getting the chance to even have you. 

“I know right!” You yell joyfully and though your smile is the biggest it's ever been, Hyuck refuses to see this moment as beautiful. He’s no longer looking at you objectively, his bias tainting it all and he sees it in an ugly light. As your best friend, he should be happy for you and rooting for you. He’s known more than anyone else that you have been waiting for someone like this your whole college experience.

However, he can’t feel a single good emotion as you ramble on about your alleged one true love.

“Did you need something?” He cuts you off, growing a bit irritated by your endless praise about a man who never wishes to meet.

Clearing your throat, you take Hyuck’s hand in both of your palms. With begging eyes, you say, “my sister is getting married this weekend and they invited you. 

His hold escapes yours as he walks toward his bedroom, “shouldn’t you invite your new man to your family events now.” It’s difficult for him to hide the bitterness in his voice, but you run up to him and grip his arm. 

“But they think I’m dating you, remember? Plus, my mom referred to you by name. She really likes you.” You snicker, clearly not understanding why Donghyuck seems to be rather distant at the moment.

His ears perk up at the compliment and though it’s a selfish thought, he feels content knowing that he was able to win over your family. So, his heart burns at how your hand slowly travels down to intertwine with his own and how your chin rests on his shoulder lightly. His head turns and he is met a few inches away from your tender lips. For a brief moment, he’s staring at them longer than he should. 

“Come on, Hyuck. Be mine for one more time.” Your whisper is gentle and soft, your breath tickling against his cheek. Despite everything, he loves how you make him feel. It’s always a mixture of happiness and safety. There are no fears with you because you’re absolutely fearless. He can’t imagine how he would’ve opened up without you around, that he puts every form of trust into you. 

So, every little thing that you do. every single passing look. every touch and every spoken word. He falls harder for you every time you simply see him, every time you bat your eyelashes at him. And this love that festers inside of him feels easy and genuine. Perhaps, you’ve been his one true love all along. He’s never felt remarkably seen, where every part is exposed and right at your fingertips. 

And you… have been so patiently waiting for just anyone to steal your heart. How can he let just anyone love you? 

“I’m yours for however long you want me to be.” He lightly ruffles the top of your hair before slightly shrugging you off, afraid that your hold will eventually have him saying other sweet implications. “But don’t expect me to enjoy it.” He smirks at your small chuckle, the roll in your eyes.

“At least pretend.” But he really doesn’t have to. He enjoys every moment being yours. 

When the day finally arrived, the grand wedding may have been another day that Hyuck will never forget how beautiful you looked. Prancing out in your bridesmaid dress, you run towards him through the large field of fake grass. He catches you when you jump into his arms, practically failing all over and tripping over the ends of your chiffon dress. He hits the ground, cushioning your fall. 

“Hey..” you grin down at him breathless, hand resting perfectly on his chest as it was the night of your 21st again.

Hyuck gulps and sends you a glare, “I should have dropped you.” 

“That would have been very chivalrous of you.” Sarcasm bites back at him as you push up and off of him. He’s quick on his feet and brushing off any dust from the bottom of your expensive dress, avoiding the long open slit that runs down to expose one leg.

“Donghyuck, you’re looking ravishing.” Your mother steps out, tall and prideful, but with the most delightful expression as she opens her arms to invite him into a hug. 

He leans into it, while cautiously making suspicious eye contact with you. You shrug back, also confused at why your mother has a sudden change in demeanor. “It’s been so long since the holidays.”

“It’s a pleasure to see you again.” He bids your mother a respectful smile when she pulls away, to which she absolutely fawns at and you’re tugging at his sleeve to drag him away.

“The pleasure is all mine. You make y/n a better person.” And there is no context that Hyuck understands this single phrase before he’s walking away from your force. Your mother waves a small sweet goodbye as she watches you two leave behind a cobblestone wall behind the large reception building.

It’s covered in long vines that grow up the old stones, a beautiful background for an outdoor wedding. “Rude.” He whispers when you finally stop pulling him away.

“She was starting to say odd things.” You laugh, quite nervously actually. Nonetheless, you shake out of your nerves and a beaming expression replaces your troubles. “So, guess what? I’m meeting my man afterwards.” Yet again, the curve of your lips at the thought of another rumbles his own yearning heart.

Shoving his hands into his pockets, he looks down while kicking at the loose pebbles on the ground. “Good for you.” grumbles Donghyuck mindlessly.

You don’t notice his low spirits again, you’re talking away about this man as if he’s all you’re consumed with nowadays. On and on, the same speech about how you’re practically ready to give it your all and how he fits someone unimaginable. Eventually, Donghyuck becomes fed up by how your eyes blink up to the sun with another reflection in them. “It’s like you forget who you are when you’re with someone new.” 

And you’re in mid-ramble when you hear his harsh comment that picks aggressively at your skin. It stings, “what?” You cross your arms defensively and raise an eyebrow at him. The tone in your voice is jarringly upset and he opened a can of worms that he isn’t ready for.

Donghyuck swears underneath his breath, looking away at the tall trees behind the small parking lot. “Forget it.” He mumbles, rather frustrated at himself for ticking you off.

“What are you implying?” 

“There is someone that actually makes you a better person rather than someone completely different.” He scoffs, his emotions fueling the worst of him. The words flow from his mouth full of anger and spitefulness. 

Your eyes narrow at him, crossing your arms defensively. “Like you can give me the love you think I deserve? This whole fake boyfriend gimmick has gone too much to your head.”

And his heart is bursting at the seams and all he can see is your angry expression, so he says something he never hopes to regret. Every impulse beats his rationality and in the heat of the moment, Donghyuck confesses, “if only you can see yourself from my point of view and all the emotions I feel when I look at you.” 

With a sharp intake of breath, you’re slightly shocked at his bold statement. You blink cluelessly at him, speechless and deciphering how to respond. The anger fades from the both of you, knowing that the connection you two possess is mutual. Somewhere deep down within you, a light switches on and you’re basking in your sun’s radiance in this moment. 

“Tell me about it.” Your curiosity brings much confusion, but he doesn’t wait a second of hesitation. 

“Happiness, you light up my nights in dark cars with your smile. Trust, there is no one else I’d run down a dangerous intersection with. Courage, being bold enough to dance in a crowded room like no one was watching. Love, when kissing you felt incomparable to anything else in the world. Vulnerability, looking at you and knowing everything about you.” 

Donghyuck takes a cautious step forward toward you. A whirl of thoughts and emotions overwhelmingly flood your heavy mind, but fear no longer holds you back from the one person you’ve always wished to love, harder than any person you’ve ever encountered. “Donghyuck.” 

He freezes at the call of his name, waiting patiently for your next words. “I want to love me the way that you love me... because nobody loves me like you do… even myself. So, I’d love to see me from your point of view.” 

Donghyuck releases the sigh that suffocates him and every firework lights up in his chest. His eyes wander across your canvas and absorb everything wondrous about your features. Even though you’re not entirely smiling, you’re puckering your lips cutely out of embarrassment. And he reassesses how pretty you simply look in your expensive formal chiffon dress and the bold color on your lips that has made you feel good before. 

He thinks aloud, the words leaving his mouth before they can be stopped. “This is your most beautiful moment.” 

When you’re looking up at him to meet his dreamy gaze, a new enthusiasm washes over your entire body. Looking rather inexplicably attractive in his suit, Hyuck stares at you as if you’re all he can see. So, you pull him into the only source of gratitude you can give. A kiss that gives every emotion back to him, one that resembles closely to the one he gave you on your birthday and the one you gave him for his. 

An emotional kiss that tells him more than he can see. He feels it on the tip of your tongue and every ounce of love that rushes over the both of you.

***********

Donghyuck’s wandering hands travel down your waist, over your hips, all until it reaches in between the slit of your dress. His hand instinctively grips at your naked thigh, the feeling of your raw skin driving him wild with impure thoughts. Your hands are quick on his tie, loosening it from around his collar and unbuttoning the first few as you’ve done once before.

“Can,-- Is it okay if--?” Hungry eyes search his face for confirmation, but you’re so lust driven that you’re a stuttering mess. “Do you want this?” 

“Yes.” Says Hyuck without any hesitation. Taking his hand, you’re quick to lead him inside to a more secluded part of the venue. The lavish private bathrooms are brightly lit and he lifts you on top of the marble counters.

“The reception starts in 20 minutes.” You moan as Hyuck kisses down your neck hastily, a hand up the slit of your dress to push your panties aside.

“We’ll make it quick then. I’ll show you love another day.” His knuckle lightly grazes against your erect clit and your grip on his shoulder tightens. Whimpers fall from your lips as your hips mindlessly grind into his hand. “Never took you the type to be so loud.” Hyuck raises an eyebrow and tilts his head mockingly at you.

“This isn’t even close to how loud I can get.” Your statement causes him to swallow hard. Being your best friend, he has kept a rather clear mind from any sexual attraction toward you. He had to know he loved you in order to even see you in that way. 

Gathering your slick, he rubs your clit with two fingers before dipping them into your hole. You lean back into the mirror and prop your feet on the counter to spread open for Hyuck to see. “You let all these idiots fuck your pretty pussy? They don’t deserve you, as a person or a potential partner.” He fingers you deeper and with flicking motions, he hits your sweet spot and causes you to jolt.

“Please, just fuck me. I’ve always wondered how good you’d feel.” His eyes twinkle at your bashful confession, but understands your lustful desires even for your own best friend.

“You think about fucking me?” He asks abruptly, taking his fingers out to suck your juices clean from them. A coined flattered smirk appears on his lips as he unbuckles his belt.

You’re averting eye contact, “well no, maybe just once. I get horny when I’m drunk sometimes.” You admit and he’s rushing to take himself out of his restrictive dress pants. His dick hits the air and he adjusts closer to your dripping core.

And he enters, slowly and slowly inching in so you can adhere to his size. You bite back every yell of pleasure and grip the ends of his dress shirt. Hyuck fills you up deliciously, and you two are connected through bodies beyond any way before. He leans in to give you a sloppy, yet passionate kiss before dragging out his hips and pushing them back in.

There is no guilt, no pain, no sorrows. Knowing Hyuck, he fucks you in the same way he wishes to love you. His hips drive into you passionately and quickly. The time crunch being something that causes him great distraction, but his heart is swelling simply feeling your warmth wrap around him so well.

“My baby is so tight.” Pet names in private. A small grin appears on your face at the sound of the sweet nickname and you pull him closer by tugging his shirt.

“Harder, Hyuck. Don’t hold back anymore.” Moan after moan, Hyuck relentlessly drills into you. His arm is hooked underneath your left thigh to keep it up, and your head keeps banging against the mirror.

Your eyes roll back when his thumb rubs circles on your aching clit. The mixture of both pleasures stimulate you until the build up tension in your stomach begins to reach its peak.

“Cum, I know you fucking want to.” He grunts, keeping the same rhythm that pushes you over your edge. Your walls squeeze around him tightly as your legs shake sporadically from your release. You’re smart to cover your mouth, knowing that the bathroom will only echo your erotic sounds. Your chest rises and falls from the momentum and adrenaline that Hyuck helped you reach, breathlessly trying to calm your heart rate down.

After a few more harsh bumps, he pulls out and motions you forward. Jumping off of the counter, you kneel on the ground and suck his tip lightly. Your swirls are enough for him to empty into your mouth, his hot streams of salty liquid hitting the back of your throat. He looks down at you and your wide eyed expression with his cock in your mouth drives him overboard. 

And you swallow, getting up to lightly plant a sweet kiss on his cheek. A lip stain being worn proudly for just a moment. 

“You amaze me.” Hyuck whispers, holding you against his flushed body and fast paced heart beat. 

“Hurry out you two!” A voice startles the both of you with a knock on the door and you two are quick to readjust yourselves. He hopes to love you a little longer next time, without any interruptions.

***********

After the glorious and excruciating long wedding, you’re walking Hyuck to his car in the small parking lot. During the rest of the night, he held your hand the whole way through and the love that he looked at you with was more than real. 

He talked with your distant relatives as if he’s always known them. Hyuck conducted the dinner table, always knowing what to say. There was no doubt in your head that seeing Donghyuck in the aftermath, he was always going to be someone who was going to make things better. 

The love you long searched for, the love that you had been too afraid to touch, intertwined itself so lovingly underneath the white table cloth. Donghyuck is the one and it took needing to see him a bit more to realize. A little more acceptance from the both of you had to be the final straw.

Donghyuck sheepishly scratches the back of his neck when you reach his car, unsure where the path of your friendship will diverge to next. “Have fun on your date then…” His voice trails off, kicking the rocks at his feet again.

There goes your melodic laughter that soothe his aching heart and the familiar gentle grip on his fingertips. You lift his chin up, the both of you seeing each other clearly now.

From his perspective, you’re absolutely dazzling in the low light and butterflies swirl in the pit of his stomach. He can look at you forever, until months turn into years. He can love you until you two grow old. You’re his fearless, beautiful, inexplicably marvelous best friend. And he patiently waits for the day you’ll let him finally be yours.

From your perspective, Donghyuck shines even when the night overtakes the sky and possibly, the warmth in your heart bubbles across your chest. You can stay with him forever, until months turn into years. You can trust him like it’s you two against the world. He is your silly, charming, timidly benevolent best friend. And you’re slowly falling and hoping for the day you get to be his. 

“I’m not going to see him anymore. He’s not the one.” Hyuck blinks at you, full of confusion and shock.

“But you sounded so happy.” His voice gets lost in the stillness of the intimate atmosphere. 

“No, Hyuck. You make me happy and I’ll say it again for you to hear me. Nobody loves me like you do.” Reaching up, your hand caresses his cheek and he falls into your palm lovingly. His heart runs a mile, reaching the greatest high he’s ever going to feel. He hopes his eyes don’t deceive him, but the utter perfection on your face makes him feel whole.

You wish that Hyuck can teach you to love yourself the way that he loves you. 

“Take me home?” 

“How could I ever say no?”

thank you for being patient with me! its finally done and i will be going on a writing hiatus for a bit. housemating and ridin club will come out sometime soon, but i really need to step away from writing for a bit. please understand, thank you for reading :) 

[yoonia]

Never Falling [M]

➬ Title | Never Falling

➬ Summary | For Park Jimin, you are everything he will ever need—his assistant, his housekeeper, his task runner, his fairy godmother. For you, he is more than everything. You have dedicated your life for him and, before you even realised it, your heart belongs to him alone. The only problem is that he is never yours, and you are living in a world that your love for him is nothing more than a fairytale ending. As you are suddenly given a chance to wake up and face the real world, will you be ready to embrace it? Will he be ready to deal with the world without you in it?

↳ Pairings | Jimin x reader

↳ Genre | Enemies to Lovers!au, Singer!Jimin, non-idol!au, Assistant!reader, Smut, Angst

↳ Ratings | +18 / M for Mature

↳ Warning | Slow burn, mutual pinning (but both are too dumb and stubborn to realise or to admit it), intense foreplay, fingering (f receiving), oral sex/pussy eating (with a bit of biting involved, don’t say I didn’t warn you), size kink (just get along with it), clothed foreplay, breast play, unprotected sex, rough sex.

↳ Word count | 21k words (I’m so sorry!!!!)

↳ Cross-post | AO3 | Inkitt

↳ Story Masterlist: Falling trilogy

↳ Main Masterlist | Mailbox | Commissions

➬ Author’s Note | Written as a commission for @opaljm. Just like I said, I made a little twist from your initial request, but I do hope you’ll love how it turned out. I’m sorry this took so long. Thank you for commissioning me and for giving me all of your support :)

⟶ Taglist | @jiminssizzles , @jeonmisha, @barbikatherine, @melrosaeparker, @hodginss, @ladyartemesia, @justmeandendlessbiases, @luvrssunrise, @anonlovesbts, @ittybittyamy, @4evahevah, @spring2787, @wwilloww, @bonnyskies, @janjaiii, @nightshadevinter, @blue1928, @taeyohonic, @jiminsreads, @imluckybitches, @strangbeyondcompare, @maso-cxhi​, @cypherft-v, @smitssharon02, @ggukjitaejin, @djasheyash99 (unable to tag: @screamingyoonseok, @loulifereader, @kaitlynteddy26, @hoho-cham)

The fancy black sedan is parked right at the side of the tarmac, not too far from where the private jet taking Park Jimin back from his tour will be landing on in a matter of—most possibly—minutes.

The wind outside picks up, and so does your heartbeat. Even the tension in your body rises as you count the passing seconds before he is finally here.

The air conditioner inside the car is running, surrounding you with the cold temperature which is a complete opposite to the heat of summer burning outside, but it doesn’t stop your hands from turning clammy as your nerves are getting all over the place. Running your hands down the pencil skirt you are wearing, you look out the window, expecting to see signs of the jet coming into view, before glancing down at your watch.

“Are you sure that there is no delay from the flight?” you ask the driver sitting in the front. He looks up to you in the backseat through the rearview mirror, suppressing a smile as he spots your fidgeting state before finally answering,

“I am completely sure, Ma’am. I double-checked with the staff just five minutes ago when you asked me about it last time.”

“Right,” you mutter under your breath, looking away to avoid his curious gaze by pretending to look back out onto the tarmac, hoping that he wouldn’t notice how terribly antsy you are.

It is hard enough for you to keep your legs from bouncing out of nerves. Pretty sure that you are far from looking composed as you are sitting here, always looking out the window with your eyes barely focusing on anything important happening around you.

Not that anything has happened yet.

The car falls silent for a moment as you try to focus on something else. But as always, your mind chooses to drift away. Suddenly, you are back with Jimin on his tour, back in his hotel bedroom a few weeks ago, hearing his words and seeing him again the way you did then.

Three weeks, you wonder, counting the days in your head to the last time you saw him. You never knew just how much those three weeks could affect you.

“Looks like you won’t have to wait for much longer,” the driver speaks almost to himself as he has his eyes looking out the car window instead of watching over you. His voice may sound soft, but it is enough to pull you abruptly to the present.

Sure enough, just as you look up to the sky, the private jet comes into view, soaring right above the horizon and preparing for its landing. Your pulse beats faster as you watch the jet slowly descending from the sky, then making its swift landing on the asphalt ground.

As the jet continues to drive along the tarmac, steadily making its way into its parking spot, you almost feel too afraid to look. You close your eyes and press your lips together, willing yourself to calm down just as the jet sets to park and the sound of the machine slowly comes to stop. Sadly, as much as you want to stay inside the car, hiding yourself from the world and from what may become the beginning of your undoing, you still have a job to do.

You should be there when he steps out of that jet. You should be standing right at the bottom of the staircase to welcome him. After all, you are his personal assistant. You are also his manager, his secretary, house manager, the person who is responsible for organising all of his schedules, and lately, organising his entire life—both personal and around his work.

And today, you are his escort and welcome committee, and you need to be there to offer him a familiar face greeting him back after the long tour. But instead of putting on your big girl shoes to play your part, you have fallen completely frozen in the backseat of his sedan, unable to move and to make your way out there to face him.

Three whole weeks have passed since you saw him last, but you are not sure if you are going to be ready to see him again.

Three weeks without him watching every move you make. Without him constantly chastising and complaining on every single thing you do, finding faults on everything around him for you to fix whenever he is not sending you to do some odd jobs or errands on his behalf. Three weeks without him around, without his smile, without his laugh, without his beautiful eyes looking at you as if you are nothing but an open book which he loves to read and study closely until he could figure you out, though a part of you believe that he simply does so just to find your weakness.

Three long weeks passed that you had expected to be your freedom, only to have ended up leaving you feeling suffocated as you felt trapped in your own prison. The prison that you had created on your own without his presence, as he had become the biggest part of your life for so long.

You are his manager and his assistant, and your life has always been tethered so strongly to him for the past five years. And though you were still technically managing his work and his life from far away, nothing has been quite the same when he is not there.

You had been there to join him on his tour in the States that had started eight months ago, until the day you left him to fend for himself while he was in a foreign land. You hate to admit that it was much easier to constantly put your mask on when you had to face him every day. But the time you spent away has allowed you to be complacent and careless, that you had been enjoying too much of your reprieve for being away from him to hide the mixed feelings that you have kept inside for the past year.

The feelings that you had never realised ever existed until that night three weeks ago.

Now that he is back and you are seconds away to return to your duty, you are going to need to put that mask back on. Except that you are nowhere ready for it. Not now, and probably not ever. Not after what you had said to him the last time you saw him.

Your head snaps to face the window when you hear the sounds of the cabin’s door opening, followed by the driver’s voice, “He’s here. Shouldn’t you be out there?”

You turn to meet his gaze through the rearview mirror and see how he is staring at you with an intrigued look on his face. Your voice gets caught in your throat for a moment, but you manage to squeak out, “Right, I probably should,” before forcing yourself to relax.

With one long deep breath, you put on a brave face before finally stepping out of the car.

You force your feet to move toward the bottom of the staircase. Something that you have never thought would be a struggle to do until today, yet there is nothing you could do about it when your knees keep wobbling as you go. You suddenly regret your decision to change your flats to a pair of higher heels right before leaving his apartment earlier. It suddenly seems absurd now to be wearing these heels when the only person you would be seeing today is him, but it is now too late to change anything about it.

Park Jimin is already standing at the top of the staircase when you find your spot at the bottom of the staircase. It is hard to look up with the bright sun shining above your head, but you could easily focus on him. The same way you always do. He is talking to the pilot of the jet, an old friend of his from school, he once said. A young, attractive man who you would occasionally hear the female flight attendant gushing over on whenever you join Jimin on his tour.

Still, your eyes could only see Jimin. Your attention tethered solely on his presence without him even knowing it.

As always, he is dressed so immaculately that you could barely see him looking distraught from the jet lag. Wearing a white buttoned-up shirt and tight jeans, together with his favourite leather shoes and a pair of sunglasses on his face, he looks just as flawless as he always does. The wind keeps blowing on his hair and he repeatedly brushes his hand to put them back in place. The gesture is something that could always take everyone’s breath away, even if he has always been doing it unconsciously out of habit.

In the past, none of these things about him could stir your insides. You have no idea when it first started, but your body has been reacting differently to everything he does. Every movement he makes ignite some sparks inside you and you have become hyper-aware on everything he does or says. Even now, your fingers twitch with the urge to touch the strands of his silky hair, and you clench your fists tighter to keep it together and act like it doesn’t matter. Because none of it should and you have been losing your ability to keep your composure when you are around him.

And it was exactly the reason why you had left and returned to Seoul before his tour had ended.

When you finally look up again, Jimin has turned his eyes on you. You could feel his deep gaze even when the sunglasses are hiding it away from you. His lips twitch with a faint smile. It happens so quickly and brief that you partly believe that you are probably imagining things.

Because he would never.

Then he bids his pilot friend goodbye before making his way down the staircase, keeping his hands inside his pockets and his eyes trailing on you.

You swallow hard and flatten the front of your skirt, keeping your eyes on him the entire time as he steps down the stairs. The sunglasses he is wearing hides his expression as he is standing right in front of you, but his presence alone is already enough to make you feel overwhelmed.

“Welcome back, Sir,” you greet him with your head down. Your eyes rise up to him as you straighten yourself up, finding him looking straight at you.

Jimin nods and runs his hand through his hair, making your heart flutter once again. His gaze is still hidden beneath the sunglasses, but you could still feel its heat. His face is completely unreadable, yet it doesn’t stop you from wondering—has the three weeks of being apart meant anything the same to him?

“Good. You’re here. It’s good to finally see your face again,” he calmly says, and you almost believe that you had caught a relieved sigh slipping out of his lips. “I missed you through the final weeks of the tour. It also felt weird not to have you around during the flight. You are always there, so I was partly expecting you to join me on my way back.”

Your heart jumps. It only has been three weeks since you have heard the silky tone of his voice and already it stirs something deep inside you. And the fact that he said something about your absence makes your cheeks heat up, a spark of joy rising inside you that you could feel your lips lifting up. The smile that is threatening to come forward feels stronger and brighter than usual, but you hold yourself back.

You refuse to think too much of the flutters appearing in your heart upon hearing those words coming from him, and you choose not to question the disappointment that comes to you when he adds, “The staff they gave me to replace you on tour had a terrible job of keeping up with what you do. I had to do a lot of things on my own when he was of no help at all. I shouldn’t have let you leave early before the tour ended.”

You keep your eyes low as you follow him to the sedan, hiding your face from his eyes as you have no idea how to react to that. Though you still manage to at least express your remorse when you tell him, “Forgive me for not being able to be there for you, Sir. The sudden leave was needed to make sure everything will fall into place for your album recording next month.”

Thankfully, your voice comes out much calmer than you had expected it would as you focus on following his quick footsteps. You are also grateful that you are able to hide the disdain in your voice when you talk about your absence.

Enough to hide the fact that it was partially a lie.

Three weeks ago, while you were away busying yourself with his tour schedule, the company had contacted you with urgency, stating that there were some technicalities back at the recording company regarding Jimin’s schedules with his new upcoming album. You were the only person that Jimin had fully trusted when it comes to his work, enough to have you sent back to Seoul in order to make things right.

Except that there was almost no need for you to fly back when you could have handled things from where you were at the time. You had only agreed to fly back home to stay away, to figure things out, because being around him for nearly eight months had started to obscure your logical mind that the leave was needed just for you to get a grip of your reality.

But he really doesn’t need to know that. Nobody does.

“I will catch up on everything that I’ve left behind from the final weeks of the tour once I can arrange to meet up with the replacement staff. But I’ll make sure to contact the company about the problem with the appointed staff later to make sure it wouldn’t happen again, Sir,” you quickly add, while Jimin barely looks at you when he only responds with a quick nod.

“Is there anywhere we need to be today?”

“No, Sir. We have cleared out the schedule for today to give you enough time to adjust to the local time after the long flight.”

“Right. I will still need to catch up on everything. Give me a full rundown on this week’s agenda and make sure that I can make it to my parents’ wedding anniversary dinner next week,” he says, keeping his eyes forward as he speaks.

Meanwhile, the professional clipped tone of his voice makes you blink and you involuntarily take a step backwards. All of a sudden, you are out of the dreamy state you were in since you saw him again, and your lungs start to feel heavy. With each breath you take, the uneasiness you felt before returns to you tenfold.

Jimin turns to you just as he realises that you are not following him close behind. “_____? Is there a problem?” he asks, almost sounding concerned when he sees you standing frozen behind him. Almost. “You do have all the updates that I need to catch up on, I’m sure.”

What he gives you is not even a question, but it sure sounds like he is saying it with an accusing tone. You quickly snap right back to it and answer him, “There is no problem at all, Sir. I have everything prepared for you—the itinerary and all the details about this week’s program. Your family’s gathering and dinner included. I can brief you on everything you need on our way back to the apartment.”

Jimin simply nods, but it is quite obvious that he is pleased with what he had just heard from you. He says nothing else as he slips into the backseat of the car.

You wait for a moment until his door is shut before rushing to the other side and entering the car. Your mind keeps drifting back and forth, running over all the details inside your head. You suddenly begin questioning yourself if you had made sure not to miss anything behind. God forbid that your agitation has made you slip. Any small mistake could possibly ruin this day, and it has always been nerve-wracking as it is on its own.

He has his eyes on his phone when you slide in to sit right next to him on the backseat, and you instantly instruct the driver to start making the trip back to Jimin’s apartment downtown.

As the car begins to drive away from the tarmac, you suddenly feel hyper-aware of his presence right beside you. Sitting here at the back with him had never felt so stifling before. The space between you suddenly feels tighter than usual, and all you could feel is the heat from his body. All you could sense is the glorious scent of his cologne, and your whole body becomes sensitive to every single movement he makes.

Feeling the tension and worries that you might make a mistake, you try to hide your discomfort by looking out the window, watching the sight outside while the car makes its way back to the main road and Jimin is still busy keeping up with news on his phone. Both your blouse and skirt suddenly feels a bit too tight, the fabric feels too hot on your skin, though you are pretty sure that he might not have been paying much attention to your appearance today.

Not like he has ever given you any.

Jimin has probably grown used to being surrounded by gorgeous women—singers, models, all the young female artists who would do anything to gain any slither of attention from Jimin’s eyes—with immaculately done hair and makeup, expensive dresses and heels, and their smooth skin, while you have practically made yourself appear invisible whenever you are working alongside him. It had been marvellously done so you could focus on your job and avoid getting any spotlight aimed at you even when you would be there with him on some of his public appearances.

Even though he had never said anything about how you look or how you dress, you have somehow unconsciously started to upgrade the way you dress to make yourself look a bit worthy to be working beside him. At first, you had brushed it off by making those efforts as a part of your job. That it was simply one of your ways to be on his good side, especially when it doesn’t matter if you had been working for him the longest, Park Jimin doesn’t take lightly for any simple mistake.

You look down on yourself, eyeing on your blouse and skirt, before touching on your hair that has been styled differently. Taking notes of everything that had taken you almost an hour longer than usual to prepare before making your way to pick him up at the airport.

When the realisation dawns on you that you have, in fact, been making an effort just to please his eyes, the discomfort starts to feel even greater. Your hands twitch slightly on your lap, suddenly feeling the urge to pull the hem of your skirt lower to cover more skin. Your whole body itself has grown stiff, feeling completely out of your wits and finding it hard to relax beside him.

What the hell am I doing?

“_____?”

Jimin’s voice breaks you away from your reverie, snapping your attention back to him. You find him looking at you curiously the moment you meet his gaze and a plethora of emotions wash over you.

“Yes, sir?” you ask him, almost wincing at the way you have failed to stop yourself from sounding—hopeful. Of what, exactly, you really have no clue. Maybe you were hoping that he has been paying attention to you. Or maybe you were hoping that he would bring up the uneventful night that had you scrambling out of his room before flying out of the States the next day.

Maybe, just maybe, things really are changing.

His gaze stays on your face for a while longer before he suddenly looks away. There is no indication whatsoever to show that he has caught on to what you have been thinking about, and you have no idea whether you should feel relieved or disappointed about it.

But why should you feel disappointed at all? You have never mattered as much in the first place anyway. After all, you are nothing else but another employee to do his bidding. And that is what has brought you here today.

And he has no qualms of reminding you of it.

“Give me all the updates you have for me and let me know everything that I’ve been missing on. Let’s start with what I have this weekend. What’s the itinerary for tomorrow?”

And just like that, he puts you back in your place, and you have no other choice but put your mask and your big girl shoes back on. Looking away, you clear your throat to get yourself together and start tapping on your tablet before you begin relaying his schedules for him, making sure that he has everything lined up and that the rest of the day would go on smoothly as you go back into the old pattern that has been formed between the two of you for years.

The cold and distant employer who has a thick wall built around him to keep people from getting too close, and his diligent little employee who does everything she could not to break apart under the uncompromising way he treats you.

“So, how was it?”

“How was what?”

Tonight is Saturday night, the day after Park Jimin’s return to the city and almost twenty hours after you reunited with him. You are sitting in your living room, down in your tank top and pyjama pants, scooping up ice cream straight from its tub after dinner. You have your laptop right in front of you, with Yerin’s face taking over the screen as you are spending the night chatting with her through Skype.

Yerin is another assistant working for a different singer from the same recording company as Jimin’s, and she has become a trusted ally who has always been there as your confidant. Simply because she practically endures the same thing you do—to work under a high-strung celebrity and hidden behind the spotlight even when you sacrifice your blood, sweat, and tears to do your job.

You didn’t immediately click with her when you first met her at the company many years ago, until the day you had found out that you were both sharing the same dilemma other than the ruthless job description you have had. That you both shared the need to push down your pride and emotions to be able to function properly under the talented artist you are working with. That alone had opened the door for you to trust her enough to confide in her, to share your troubles when it comes to dealing with your work.

“How was meeting your boss again and having him back in the city? I mean, come on. What else would I be asking you?” she says, making dramatic gestures with her hands before her eyes brighten up and she starts wiggling her eyebrows. “Or did anything interesting happen?”

“No, nothing happened other than the glorious welcome I gave him at the airport. That, and the long, boring drive to his apartment while rearranging his schedules because he needs to have a break this weekend. And that’s just about how excited my life has been for the past 24 hours,” you tell her, rolling your eyes at her hunger for gossip as you take a spoonful of ice cream into your mouth.

Your mind drifts back to yesterday as you lick the spoon clean.

The whole drive back to his apartment had become less intense the moment you began briefing him on his schedules and then taking the notes from the temp that had been sent in to take over your duties back in the States. But the situation only remained that way until you finally arrived at his home.

He barely said a thing as he ventured down the hallway of his apartment, leaving you at the door as you were directing the driver and the home staff to deal with his luggage. It wasn’t until you returned to his side when you finally noticed his fatigue, shown clearly on his face when he pulled his sunglasses off.

The worries you felt for him came so strong that you could barely hide it when you came to him and asked him if he needed anything. But he barely gave you any attention as he dismissed you instantly, sending you home and telling you to take the rest of the weekend off while he would be spending the time to rest.

He probably had noticed how high-strung you were around him to think that you would only become a disturbance if you had stayed. But he was also acting weird around you the moment he was home. He seemed different, as if he was holding back from something, yet you just couldn’t put a finger on it and figure out what it was.

You had felt a swell of triumph when you walked out of his home completely unscathed. Only now that you think about it, you feel somewhat—empty, suddenly feeling as if the distance between you two are becoming greater even when he is near.

“Honestly, all I could say is that it was—decent.”

“Decent?” She raises her brows.

You give her a shrug and avoid looking at the screen. “Decent. Because the only thing he complained about was the replacement staff taking my place after I left the States and, for the first time, he wasn’t chastising me or making comments about my job. So, yeah—it was rather decent.”

“Huh,” she scoffs and leans back. Yerin has been sitting cross-legged on her bed while she is on the video chat with you, enjoying her Saturday night like you do—embracing the leisure of being on your own comfy bed without being stuck in the stuffy manager outfits you both always wear when working.

“That’s good, I guess. Remember when you first started working as his assistant? You could barely stand the guy. I can’t remember seeing you without getting anxious before meeting him each time you were on schedule, or seeing you without a permanent scowl on your face after dealing with him whenever he was done with his long tours.”

You pinch your lips together as you think about it. It shouldn’t be any surprise for you to know that other people could sense it too, that you have always been agitated whenever you are around him. As your employer, Jimin is rather demanding when it comes to his needs. He is also not an easy man to work with, something that most of the staff working for him had admitted to as well. Which has become the reason why people keep questioning on how you could stand working with him for years.

“But seriously, was that all you guys talked about? Work? Nothing about what happened back in the tour and—I don’t know—try and find out what he was up to when you weren’t there with him?”

“You know I could always find out about everything that happened while I was away from the other staff,” you tell her while waving your spoon at the screen. “And I’m not about to prod him on his private life. None of those things are my problem.”

You look away just as you said it, focusing on the dessert on your lap which has been reducing quite fast during the video chat. Even if you were not completely lying when you said that your boss’ personal life would never be your problem, it still doesn’t stop you from caring.

Because there had been times when his personal life really did become your problem. Mostly because they had become a complete mess and you were the only one who could fix them for him.

And it certainly is not helping you from overthinking about it when Yerin suddenly asks you, “Aren’t you worried?”

You look up, sending her an incredulous look. “About what?” you ask her, still hiding the fact that you have been worried about him. “I’m not his babysitter. I can’t watch him 24/7 and he’s a grown man who can make his own decisions.”

Your hand stops midair after scooping up a big bite of ice cream as your mind once again drifts off. The night you met him in his hotel room comes back. You could still see him there, sitting in the dark corner of his room while you stood there, unable to do anything but watch as he unravelled the facade that he had kept on for so long.

He had shown them all to you, albeit not on purpose, and then you ran away the next day.

Your eyes could barely focus on Yerin’s face as you snap yourself back to present, and your words simply come tumbling out of your lips, “I’m not getting paid enough to deal with him and his life as it is, with how busy he is going to be now that he is back. The last thing I need now is to deal with his life outside of work. Especially if he chooses to get himself in trouble again after he had gotten himself out of trouble for years.”

You hear Yerin chuckling softly and your eyes lift up to her on the screen. “Right. It’s not like you weren’t there when it happened the first time either though. And you had done God level’s work to bring him back in line to be the way he is now,” Yerin easily reminds you of the time in your career that had defined your relationship with Jimin. And also the reason why he had entrusted every single thing in his life in your capable hands.

Five years ago, Jimin was a disaster waiting to happen.

He was a constant fixture on tabloids, gossip news, and while his talent—his beautiful voice, his gorgeous face, and his fluid moves on the stage—had been a part of him that had gained him the fame he has today, it had all come together with various rumours, simply because he enjoyed having too much fun. And he was just a little bit too much to handle.

He was, quite literally, the life of the party.

For the public and for his dedicated fans, he was a beacon of light, always fun to watch and to be around. For the recording company, he was a nightmare. Not a single person working for him knew how to handle him and he had gone over more managers than any other artists in the company would. Most of them had given up when he would get himself into trouble faster than anyone could do any damage control to cover his ass.

He would stay up all night or out on random parties instead of keeping up with his schedules, missing out on a lot of them—whether it was his live shows, fan meetings, or interviews, and more often than not, his recording sessions. He would refuse to follow the rules, drinking instead of practicing, ignoring all the warnings from his managers and agents when he would go out on clubs, appearing in public with different girls each night, breaching multiple deals when he kept failing to show up for work.

It had come to a point where his company was backed into the corner with his unruly ways that they had decided to give him a firm warning—to get his act together or they could end his contract. And that was when you came into the picture.

Under his company’s warning and demands, Jimin fired every single person working for him then, cutting off his connections to the parties, to the enablers that had pulled him into his bad habits, before finally hiring you as his personal assistant. He had found you through his agents, who had vouched for your ability of organising his work and his life the way nobody else possibly could. It was a huge challenge for you to take, while at the same time, it had also felt like a punishment when he handed all the tasks from his former staff and employees into your hands. As if he was dumping all of his own weight on your shoulders and placing the anger he had for his bosses on you.

Yet the harder he threw the ball your way, the harder you returned them. Meeting his demands with grace as you tackled them all single-handedly until you gained his trust that, in the end, it had led him to keep you around much longer than any other staff who had ever worked for him before you came into his life.

Ever since you had started working for Jimin, you would always be there within his reach, either with a full itinerary that could choke every second of his day, a time schedule set in hand to help you orchestrate his entire life, or to simply be there for him to follow his commands. You were headstrong on getting him to follow the rules and to have him focusing on what actually mattered—his work, his music, and the fact that the company had invested a lot of money on him and his fame—and he finally did manage to clean his act together with your help. Proving not just him, but also everyone else, that keeping him in line had been something that you could do best.

Even if things have not always been all fame and glory when it came to Jimin. There were still multiple occasions where you had to spin a few of his scandals in the past when you were just starting off to work with him, and it had left a completely poor impression about him which had made you despise him at some point.

At least the feelings seemed to be mutual.

And you never really mind having it that way, just as long as he keeps himself away from trouble—as he has been for the past few years—and when everyone else around him still treats and regards you with more respect. Yerin has been one of those people, as she keeps on bringing it up on any chance she has.

“I don’t know anyone else who could do it like you do,” she says, nearly gushing over you through the screen. “Do you have any idea how famous you are among trainees and newbies at work? They call you ‘the woman with the iron fist’, the only one who managed to deal with Park Jimin like no other—man or woman—could.”

You look at her with a frown. “I don’t care anything about fame. What I need is more money.”

Yerin shakes her head at you. “I won’t argue with you there. These artists love to drain our blood to work for them and pay us with minimum wages we could barely breathe,” she scoffs, before her lips lift up to a smile. “At least you had not only earned his trust, but his attention as well.”

Narrowing your eyes on her, you begin to regret ever sharing your secrets with her. You blame it on the fact that Yerin can be a bit insistent and has always proven how good of a listener she truly is. And you were also partially drunk when it happened.

At least you were still capable enough to hold yourself back from telling her everything, only parts of the conversation that you had with him. Keeping everything else that might have gotten you—both you and Jimin—into trouble to yourself.

Though it is true that Jimin has been treating you terribly hard since you began working for him, leading you to loathe him and to constantly feel intimidated and degraded under his scrutiny, you have begun to develop something else. A different feeling that you had never once thought you could ever feel for him.

You had believed that your feelings have grown for Jimin because you had empathised with him at some point, when he has slowly begun to show a part of him that nobody else could see whenever he is around you. And watching him change and turn his life around has made you gain more respect for him that you began to care about him more than you probably should.

And thinking about him paying attention to you, looking at you differently compared to the way he has been acting around you, is not supposed to make you feel hopeful and happy.

“Now, that is where you’re wrong. The last thing he has ever given me is his attention. He still looks at me the same way he always has,” you tell her, though whether you are convincing her or yourself, you have no idea. “I’m not supposed to care anyway. I’m supposed to still be hating him. Plus, he is my boss.”

“I won’t blame you if you do care or crave for his attention,” she suddenly starts speaking softly. “Look. You are the best at what you do. But you are also human. And it is quite normal for a living, breathing human being to want something and to feel certain things.”

As everything she just said to you slowly sinks in, the words that come out of your lips next are partly involuntary. “But I’m not supposed to feel anything else but respect for him,” you tell her, sighing deeply before continuing, “And as his assistant, I’m not supposed to feel hope for something—more. It’s already overwhelming as it is to be around him when I cannot tell what his mood is going to be like. How can I do my job properly when my brain gets too caught up in trying to figure out the reason why I always feel so happy being around him or why my heart beats differently when I look at him?”

“You could always ask for a transfer,” she says, shrugging. “Didn’t you say that there have been other artists asking you if you could switch jobs now that Jimin has other managers handling his work?”

Could I? — you suddenly wonder. Though you find yourself conflicted, half unsure if you could actually hand your position to someone else and also not sure if you could actually leave his side, for no matter what reason it would be.

And handing your position would not be an easy task. You may have been handpicked by Jimin and his agents in the first place, but you have since made yourself almost irreplaceable. And even if you hate the dismissive and contemptible way Jimin treats you, you still find the pride of having the few rare occasions when Jimin would run to you when he needs anything. Just like how whenever he needs advice and he would only take yours and no one else’s, or when he lets you run something important for him and gets you involved in a few decision makings that he needs to take.

Before you could even respond to Yerin’s suggestion, she has already begun rambling nonstop—

“You know what, maybe transferring is a good idea, after all. What if he is holding himself back because you are his staff? Maybe if you’re no longer working for him, he might be able to show his emotions—”

Rolling your eyes, you cut her off before she could go any further. “The only emotion he has for me is scrutiny. Besides, maybe it’s nothing. Maybe if I could just ignore it, it would simply go away and life could get back to normal.”

She raises her brows. “Normal? What exactly is normal about you and Jimin?” she asks you. “And there is no way he isn’t looking at you differently. Not after what you had told me about what happened the last time you were with him in LA.”

Your eyes widen, and you almost choke on your ice cream just as she said it. Bringing back the talk of your last night in the States brings you back the memory. And you hate the fact that you still cannot erase it from your mind.

“I knew I shouldn’t have said anything about him,” you mutter with a sigh, pinching the bridge of your nose out of frustration and regret.

“Unfortunately, I’m more than glad you did share it with me,” she teases you while wiggling her eyebrows. “Just admit it, you are secretly in love with him. It’s really okay to be honest with yourself. There is nothing wrong with falling in love with your boss.”

“Wait—who said anything about love? I only said I care about him. A little more than I should, maybe, but it’s nothing more than that,” you tell her, before you could even begin questioning yourself.

“Besides, we’re too different, Jimin and me. There is no way he would look at me the same way he would to those pretty models he had been with.”

Yerin only grins. “Have you never heard of that saying? That opposites do attract,” she teases, only chuckling softly when you narrow your eyes on her. “Which brings us back to our earlier topic. Did he really not say anything about it when you came to pick him up at the airport?”

This time, you could only shake your head and sigh. “No, we didn’t talk about it,” you tell her, biting your lips to stop yourself from saying—and I was waiting for him to at least bring it up. “He was drinking at the time. He probably didn’t even realise what he was saying or doing. And judging from the way he reacted when he saw me, it seemed like he doesn’t even remember.”

You press your lips together just as you think about that night, when you came into his hotel bedroom late midnight, finding him alone in the dark with a faraway look in his eyes.

The look that never faded away even when he turned to you, when he spoke with you, as if he was looking through you instead of at you. As if you were simply a figment of his imagination, a part of his dream. As if you were never there.

“Speak of the devil,” Yerin suddenly grabs your attention with her soft gasp. Only that she is not looking at you through the screen. Her wide eyes are locked on the screen of her phone while she has a hand covering her mouth. Whatever she is seeing on her phone at the moment has sent her jaw dropping. Judging from the look in her eyes when she finally looks up to the screen, it must not be anything good. “Looks like you have no choice but to get involved in his personal life again, after all.”

You raise your brows. “What do you mean?”

She sighs. “Check Twitter, girl.”

The serious tone of her voice has your gut clenching tight. Your skin bristling with a sign of something bad coming. Something really bad.

You toss your dessert aside and reach out to grab your phone from the coffee table, opening your Twitter app to find what she was talking about through the trending hashtag, only to have your own jaw dropping and the blood rushing down from your face when you finally see it.

“Oh, crap.”

This is certainly not how you had imagined spending your Sunday morning would be like.

Especially not after finishing one whole tub of ice cream before falling asleep last night. At least it was not a half bottle of tequila, you remind yourself. You probably wouldn’t even be able to walk on your killer heels if you had chosen to drink your hard liquor instead.

And already you could barely walk straight through the front door of Jimin’s apartment without having any hangover getting in the way already. You are definitely not in the state of mind of seeing him again this early.

The apartment seems quiet when you walk in. Jimin has a couple of staff working for him at home, from the cook to the driver and his bodyguard, who would constantly be around, while his housekeeper would only come over whenever he is not home. As someone who has a minor title as his house manager—which is basically just a fancy name for the head housekeeper, to be honest—you know everyone working here personally. You were the one who had interviewed at least half of them, after all. And you are also the one who manages their schedules, their job descriptions, and also spends hours on the daily basis to supervise them and make sure that they are doing their job well.

Today, however, it seems quite obvious that Jimin had sent his staff home. Because nobody has come out to welcome you as you stride across the entrance foyer to the main hallway, and there is no sign of anyone cooking in the kitchen.

After walking past a few doors, you could finally find him. He is standing at the center of one of the small guest rooms which you had altered into a small library to provide space for his extensive collection of books.

Jimin has his back facing the opened doorway. His eyes looking out the window, his hands snugged deep inside his pockets, the sunlight filtering into the room makes him look radiant despite the circumstances. You could see signs of his stress appearing on his face—from the faint lines under his eyes and how his normally perfect hair looks dishevelled, as if he had been running his hand through the soft strands one too many times in his distress.

You stop at the doorway, taking everything in. Park Jimin always carries a certain calmness with him that makes it hard for you to read his moods until the moment he speaks. You could still see that calmness on the faraway look he has in his eyes, though you could also see a hint of his vulnerability hidden in his gaze. Something that you have learned to catch on to after years of working with him.

And it has been the one that could always bring out the tightness inside your chest.

This was how you had found him that night in his bedroom. Well, almost quite the same. Except that it was late at night and you were both in a foreign hotel bedroom instead of this warm, familiar room. He had a glass of whisky in his hand, knuckles turning almost white around the glass instead of hidden away in his pockets, and you had ditched your work outfit for the day, showing him the vulnerable side you had never shown anyone before while he was putting away his own defense and exposed himself to you.

“I need you.”

Your body shudders when his voice echoes inside your head. Then you blink your eyes once, and the image is gone.

“Good morning, Sir.”

If your arrival or your voice has caught him by surprise, he sure as hell is not showing it. But just like how you had managed to quickly pull yourself together and hide away your feelings, Jimin is also quick to hide his own. The moment he turns around to find you there, the gaze in his eyes switches, only the calm and collected facade remains.

He nods rather absentmindedly instead of expressing his relief for having you come to his home this morning before making his way to the loveseat at the corner. He tilts his head once he sits down, giving you a silent signal to take the seat next to him, to which you comply.

“How bad is it?”

You press your lips together, not really enjoying having this kind of talk. “It’s all over the internet. The photos taken of you leaving the club with the female model, Sora, has spread on Twitter overnight and it has begun taking over the tabloids’ headlines this morning.”

You open your purse, pulling out your tablet and turning on the screen to show him every single one of the pages and gossip news showing Jimin, walking out of a fancy club in downtown LA with his arm around the model. While she had one arm wrapped around Jimin’s waist and the other barely able to hide her face from the camera. Each photo had been taken from one angle, revealing that they were taken by one source. The caption and headline that follow each photo says—

‘Our Party Boy is back! And look who the lucky girl he is taking home with!’

Jimin places the tablet on his lap. His jaw ticks with irritation as he reads all the headlines and scrolls through the pictures.

While he is at it, you keep your eyes on him to gauge on his reaction. Deep inside, the questions begin to line up.

Why didn’t you tell me that you went out clubbing while in the States? How much did you drink while you were out partying that night? Did you take Sora back to your hotel?

Would you have gone and met her if I had stayed?

Your body reacts involuntarily just thinking about him and the pretty model. After you had seen the pictures spreading on Twitter last night, you have done all you could to avoid looking at them again. Once again, out of nowhere, the tight clench in your chest grows more intense to each time you think about him touching her, of her clinging onto him, placing her arm around his waist and pressing herself so freely while he has been untouchable by your own hands.

His deep sigh snaps you out of it and you sit back, straightening your back as you prepare yourself to hear what he has to say. If he says anything at all. His eyes find yours and you could see a wave of emotions through his gaze—is it guilt? Disdain? Or perhaps something else?

For one, he has never shown you any semblance of regret whenever he had gotten into this kind of trouble in the past. But now—

“So what’s our next step?” he asks, handing you back the tablet as he forces himself to relax.

Keeping your tone clipped and professional, you look away from his gaze and back to your tablet, showing him the schedule that you had set up to deal with this matter tomorrow. “Your agent and a representative from the company is going to contact Sora and her management to have her statement, let her tell her side of the story about that night. You both need to have the story lined up and clear things up—”

You stop for a moment, not sure if you could continue without letting your emotion show when you add, “—about what happened between the two of you, so our publicist can release a statement. But that also means that you need to tell everyone—” including me, “—if there is anything between you and Sora.”

You swallow thickly once you are done, half expecting to see Jimin waving things off and trying not to hope that he would deny it, release you from your worries and the dread that has been torturing you all night. Until he does it anyway, merely moments before you are running out of patience and start asking him directly about it.

“Nothing happened,” he says with his brows creasing. With a sigh, he shakes his head. “I wasn’t there to go partying, if that’s what you’re talking about. I got bored at the hotel and was pissed off by the incompetent staff running my errands, so figured I could get some time off and get some fresh air. I was only out for a few hours then I stopped to grab some drinks before getting back to the hotel. I entered the club because it was on my way back and met Sora there. She had lost her guards and escorts. I walked her back to her hotel since she was so drunk then I returned to my room for the night. Alone.”

He keeps his eyes on you the whole time he is explaining you this, as if he is trying to make sure that you are listening. Though it somehow feels like he is trying to convince you to believe in him when he emphasises every single word he says to make you believe that nothing ever happened.

You refuse to dwell on it, however, snapping yourself out of it by clearing your throat and switching your attention back to your notes, avoiding his eyes once again before you could get lost in them. “Right. Well, as long as you could explain the whole thing and have Sora support your statement, I’m sure our publicist can prepare the perfect press release to be published soon and have all of this die down before your next album is out.”

You could still feel his gaze on you while you put your attention on your tablet. Your cheeks are heating up right at the spot where his eyes are looking. It takes everything in you to stop your hands from trembling as you type down everything he said.

“This is what happens when you’re not around me,” Jimin suddenly mutters softly, catching you slightly off-guard.

“You just need to be careful next time,” you tell him, and his frown deepens.

“Right.”

All too suddenly, he moves away, pushing himself off of the sofa and starts making his way out of the room. It sends you off to a limbo when he takes his warmth away with him in his departure. But the swift change of mood is enough to send you back to reality and out of the imaginary bubble your mind created between you.

Without looking back at you, Jimin returns to his usual self. Distant, devoid of emotions when he speaks, “I trust that you could handle it. So that’ll be all for now. We can discuss all of this again tomorrow in the meeting.”

The dismissal shouldn’t hurt so much, but you would be lying to say that it does not sting. You should have gotten used to it by now, to have him calling you in when he needs your aid only to have him sending you off the moment he is through with you.

Your head is still spinning when you make your way out of his apartment, your heels clicking on the marble floor while your mind is constantly reeling. You just cannot understand him most of the time, and it is certainly hard to understand the reason why he keeps pulling you close at one second only to push you away—harder each time—the next.

Cold, but also hot. Distant, yet vulnerable. Strong, but still gentle. He is a mix of contradictions, yet so beautiful, intriguing, tempting, while at the same time, tantalising.

One minute he was hot and open, then he quickly went cold and closed shut the next moment, leaving you close to losing grasp of reality the more you are dealing with him. You have been telling yourself that you could handle it. That whatever it is you have been feeling for him is nothing more than an infatuation that would someday disappear. That this whole thing had only started to brew inside you simply for the mystery that he carries with him, and the moment they are gone, they will be nothing else there.

At least, that is what you keep telling yourself each time you begin to try and analyse it.

You are the only one to blame for having all of these conflicted feelings burning deep inside you.

It took only one night to find out that there is a small semblance of care and empathy within you to have your feelings—all hidden and disguised—suddenly unlocked, to finally have them all spinning out of control. Growing too fast the moment you acknowledge their existence, and now you have no idea how to make it all stop.

But you need to try. You need to find out some way to be able to hold yourself together, to push this feeling aside so you could go back to the way you were with him before the entire tour happened, before he had let you see him through his mask. Just like how you had helped him gain his focus back on his work, you would have to take it a step at a time and brush this feeling you have for Park Jimin until it becomes no more. Until his dismissals and avoidance could no longer hurt you. Until his presence no longer sucks the air out the room.

But how much time do you need, and how much more can you take, before you finally break apart under all of this pressure?

—3 WEEKS AGO—

“I need you.”

You had retreated back into your hotel room and had been there for a few hours, and you were getting ready for bed when his phone call came in.

Your hair was already down, your makeup had completely been wiped off, and you had changed your manager suit into your silky nightdress. But none of that mattered the minute you heard his voice on the call. You had nearly gone barefoot when you left your bedroom, your worries had made you hasty when you turned and made a run for it to his hotel suite.

There was desperation in his voice when he spoke, his words breaking that you could feel his pain.

Something was wrong.

You were grateful that Jimin had always let you keep a spare keycard to his suite. After knocking and pressing the doorbell a few times without getting any answers, you opened his door and slid inside to find him.

The entire suite was dark, so you were half expecting to find him already fallen asleep. But it was your duty to make sure that he was safe, which became the reason why you went in anyway, entering the living room hesitantly until you found him.

He was sitting on one of the chaise sofas, looking out the window with the kind of look in his eyes that you have never truly seen coming from him before. Not often, since he had always been so good at hiding his emotions. He had always been so guarded, constantly pushing people away—especially you—whenever they got too close.

That night, he was like an open book. Nothing was stopping him from showing all the mix of emotions through the look in his eyes. It wasn’t until you walked closer when you noticed the half-empty bottle of liquor on the table beside him and the glass in his hand.

“Sir? Is everything okay?” you nervously called him as you came closer, only to have no reaction coming from him. “Jimin?”

This time, as you called him by his name, he flinched and snapped out of it. Though the haunting look in his eyes stayed the same when he looked at you.

“You came,” he said, almost a whisper.

You came to him with a frown, taking a few tentative steps towards him as if he would break if you weren’t being careful. “You called me just now. What is wrong? What do you need?”

He rose up from his seat and stalked closer. The look in his eyes came clearer now and it made your heart race.

“You’re not wearing those stuffy outfits.”

Confused, you looked down only to gasp, finally realising now that you had gone to your boss wearing a nightdress, with only a thin robe to cover yourself. You tightened the robe to cover it and hugged yourself just as he came closer, bringing his warmth around you as he stood at the center of the room with you.

“I’m sorry. I was getting ready for bed when you called,” you nervously explained yourself, afraid that he would comment on how inappropriate it would be to enter your employer’s room looking this way.

“I like seeing you this way,” he told you instead, still with a whisper. Your body shuddered as he reached out, only to stop himself, not sure if he should continue. As if his touch could hurt you. But he was no longer looking at your clothes. He was looking at you. He looked straight into your eyes, before his gaze trailed on your face, as if he wanted to memorise everything.

And you never realised just how close you were standing to each other until he spoke again. “You are always there for me. Always. Whenever I need you, wherever I’ll be, you’ll be there.”

You could feel your heartbeat pacing differently inside your chest. You had never been anywhere close to him before. Not this close.

As he touched the loose strands of your hair, your voice had somehow become hidden somewhere inside your chest. Your lungs were not even working and your chest felt so constricted you had to suck a deep breath. Still, no words could come out. Not only that you could not speak, but you had also lost your ability to think straight.

And he was the one carrying the glass of whisky in his hand.

Standing near him was like being too close to the sun. His presence was so strong, it engulfed you like a flame. But you were too blinded by his beauty and by the haunting look in his eyes to care.

“It’s a part of my job—” you choked out, almost failing to speak. “It’s my duty to be there when you need me.”

His brows creased. “Your job—” he said, echoing your words, though it almost seemed like it was taking him a lot just to let it sink in. Instead of responding, he leaned in, your noses almost touching, and it almost looked like he was about to kiss you. You held your breath. His eyes moved down to your lips, then he stopped.

He took one long shuddering breath and closed his eyes. “I’m so exhausted.”

For the first time, he looked as if he was breaking apart. You have never seen him this way, and you had no idea just what to do. A part of you wanted to push him away, yet another part of you wanted to reach out to him, to hold him and tell him that everything would be alright.

So you did the next best thing. The only thing you knew wouldn’t cross the line with your boss. Not too much.

“You’ve had a long day, it’s normal to feel exhausted,” you told him then while placing a palm over his chest, gently pushing him away. You could feel his heartbeat racing against your palm, but you tried to focus on reaching out with your other hand, to gently pull the glass he was carrying from his hand and took it away.

“You had interviews after interviews—” you continued, wincing when you remembered the hosts from the talkshow and the radio show he was invited in all day, everyone who kept giving him personal questions, prodding into his private life when he was supposed to be there to talk about his music. As if his music didn’t matter. “—you also spent all afternoon practising instead of taking a break.” You kept talking, pulling his attention away from his drink, from you, as you placed the glass away at the table beside you.

His hand was still hanging mid-air with his hazy gaze locked on his palm, as if wondering just where his drink had disappeared to. “And I should have known that the photoshoot would last all night long. I should’ve arranged your time schedule better. Forgive me.”

Jimin gave no response, but he moved his eyes, finally looking at you again. You took his hand and gently pulled him towards his bedroom. “Let’s get you to bed, okay?”

He nodded before letting you take him with you. He seemed so fragile when you guided him to lie down. And he stayed still as you tucked him under the comforter.

Jimin had his eyes closed when you returned into his room with a glass of water and a couple of hangover pills to place on the bedside table, but he opened them just when you pulled away.

“Thank you,” you heard him whisper. Reaching out to grab your hand, he brushed at your knuckles, mumbling softly just as he was slowly drifting off to sleep, “You are the only one I could trust. Everyone else—they all want something from me and they’ll all leave when things get rough, but you—” he sighed, and his voice was already fading that you barely caught it when he added, “—you’re always there.”

—P R E S E N T—

On Monday, you join Jimin to work at his recording company as he begins the process of working on his next album.

The day had started with meetings after meetings in order to get him back on track after being gone for eight months. Early morning, you sat with him through a meeting with the executives where Jimin complained about having been given an inadequate temp when you were away in the final weeks of his tour.

Each time your mind is set on focus into these meetings and in handling Jimin’s business, the event happening the other day at his apartment and everything else that came with it faded away easily, setting themselves aside to let you work without any distraction. Except that something else managed to grab your attention as the morning schedules continued on.

While Jimin is not a person of many compliments, he surprised you—and perhaps everyone else in the room—when he kept boasting on your abilities, further showing all the faults that the temp had for not being able to keep up with what you do.

Then the day continued with another meeting that had been set up with his agent and publicists to talk about the gossip that had been running on course through the weekend. The rest of the meeting was set to plan out some damage control. Again, Jimin praised the press release that you had created with the publicist to deny any rumours between him and Sora, without giving you any trouble before he let his agents send them out to the media.

Putting your employer’s peculiar behaviour aside, you are rather grateful that you had been able to put your head in the game. The relief from knowing that you have done a good job makes you feel lighter once the meetings are over. Bidding Jimin’s publicist and agent goodbye, you are ready to go about with your next tasks for the day.

Only that Jimin has a different plan for you.

“You’re staying until I’m done with the recording session, aren’t you?” Jimin asks as you are leaving the conference room together, making you stop on your tracks.

His album wasn’t supposed to start its production process yet until next month, but it had been planned that he would have a duet song with another artist, whose schedule is going to be so tight that she is only going to be available for recording this week before she would have to go on tour. You were the one who had set the schedule for Jimin’s activities today. And since you had never been involved in his recording sessions, you had planned to leave while he is busy in the studio, as you are responsible to check on his home staff for the day.

“I wasn’t aware that I would be needed for that, Sir.”

“You probably won’t be needed in the studio,” he says, catching you off guard when he speaks in a nonchalant way before he adds, “But I’d love it if you stay until the recording is done.”

Though a part of you wonders what role you would have while he is in recording, you choose not to question it. “I—I suppose that could be arranged.”

Jimin nods. He begins making his way to the studio, walking so firmly down the hallway as he speaks, and you have no other choice but to follow close behind. “I also need to get some gifts for my parents. The dinner is Friday night, isn’t it? I forgot to get them something while I was still back on the States.”

“I already have some gifts prepared. I can have them ready for the night of the dinner.”

He definitely was not expecting that. Turning to you, Jimin raises his brows. “What am I giving them?”

“A couple of antique crystal decanters for your father, a Victorian-style tea set for your mother, and a couple of gift cards for first-class flights to any destination they choose.”

Jimin’s eyes light up with gratitude. “That’s quite excessive for a gift set. How did you manage to get them?”

“You got them. After you heard your father showing some overpriced crystal decanters on Amazon and after your mother lost her favourite tea set when they moved from their old house,” you tell him, keeping your face straight when you speak. “Oh, and you had also heard them talk about having a post—super late—honeymoon.”

“I did, huh?” he asks you without holding back his amused grin from showing. “Well, I hope those gifts can charm them next Friday to forget that I almost never joined their dinner parties before.” He turns away, continuing his walk to the studio. “You did a great job, ______. Thank you.”

Once again, Jimin caught you by surprise with his compliment. You instantly halt instead of following him, not sure how to react. “I—it’s my pleasure to help, Sir.”

He only responds with a nod. “I’ll wait for you in the studio.”

You barely have your head back on the ground when you finally make it to join him in the studio.

You had spent the past twenty minutes or so organising everything that is needed back at his apartment through a video call, grateful that you have appointed a home staff recently who you could hand over your tasks to as you need to stay with Jimin longer than you should have.

He has already stepped into the recording room when you entered the studio. And now you are sitting here, right outside of the small observation room with the glass wall separating you. He is currently talking to one of the producers who is guiding the session. He has his headphones hanging around his neck, his eyes are sharp as he is giving his rapt attention to the producer even when the man has turned to speak to the female singer standing in the room with them.

As always, your eyes stay on Jimin.

Watching him work like this has always made your heart swelling with pride. Even when you have been detesting him for how he has been treating you and how he acts around you, there has always been a part of you that has been secretly admiring him from afar, albeit hidden away under the pressure of your job.

Sitting here, looking at him only through the glass wall and only being able to hear his voice through the speakers, you cannot help but feel as if you are stuck in a time warp. You cannot deny the irony of things when you realise your position now, and where he is at right in this moment.

With you being in separate rooms, where you are sitting with the team of staff for his recording session and Jimin in the air-conditioned recording room with another artist and a multimillion worth producer creating his music, this scene is the perfect metaphor to describe both of your worlds together.

You are the staff, the employee, the secondary class in this music business. The help.

Meanwhile, he is the star, the spotlight, the one who leads the pack and has everyone following him close behind. He will always have the lights shining on him, while you will always be the one to stand in the shadows. Just the same way you are doing it now.

The producer leaves the room, and his assistant is there to take his place.

The exchange allows you to finally notice the other movements happening inside the room, and you catch it just in time as the female singer comes sidling a bit closer to Jimin.

Looking at her closely, your anxiety prickles through your veins. Nari—the female singer who is working with Jimin—is young, a newcomer, and she is incredibly gorgeous. Tall, stacked, skinny, dressed in an expensive-looking skin-tight black pants and a flashy top that is showing too much cleavage for a studio work, she looks no different than the rest of the female artists ever paired by the media to be on Jimin’s side.

Flame of rage burns on your cheeks when you see her reaching out to touch Jimin’s arm. The bitter taste in your mouth returns, followed by an uneasy feeling in your chest. As if there are sharp claws raking down your insides the more you watch them together.

This feeling is familiar, you realise. You had felt it before.

You had this same exact feeling whenever you had to clear any rumours of Jimin dating another female artist that he barely knows in real life, simply because some photographers had captured them in one frame during a local event. You felt it when you had watched him go through a few dates before, and whenever he drained you with excessive work while he treated his female colleagues with care and respect. You could even feel it when you saw those pictures of him with Sora last weekend.

You had always brushed it off, never truly understood what it had meant. Not even when it felt especially intense last weekend before you found out what had happened between Jimin and Sora, before Jimin finally cleared things out for you.

But this time, you finally know exactly what it is.

Jealousy.

And just like that, everything finally sinks in. Everything that you had been denying comes forward, engulfing you in waves without giving you a chance to escape. Then Yerin’s words come back to you, ringing inside your head like a taunt—

“Just admit it, you are secretly in love with him.”

Yes, you are finally admitting it. You kept refusing to admit that it could happen, but now it just seems impossible to stop it from happening—because it already has happened.

You love him.

And just like that, the glass mask that you have been wearing to hide your secrets shattered into pieces, and there is no stopping it when the real side of you that had been stuck inside comes crawling out. Unwilling to be denied even when the reality is right there, taunting you with what you could never have.

You could only look on ahead in silence, keeping a straight face each time you see someone from the recording room glancing your way—though you know that neither of them are looking at you, you realise, as the producer is now sitting right beside you. And you certainly cannot do anything about it when the female singer moves even closer to Jimin.

You can feel the heat of your tears pricking at the back of your eyelids when you see her perfect nails keep raking down Jimin’s arm as they talk to each other. Your own nails are slightly buried into your palms when you see her continuously flirting and flaunting herself to Jimin, from pulling her shoulders back to practically shoving her breasts to Jimin’s eyes, then laughing excessively to whatever Jimin is saying to her right before the recording session starts again.

You cannot help the burning jealousy that keeps pushing on and keeping a straight face quickly becomes a strain. There is no way you could stand keeping this terribly broken mask on until he is done with his work. But you have nowhere else to go, when he was the one who had requested for you to stay.

Then, as Jimin suddenly turns to glance at your way, you quickly look down on your lap, playing it off as if you are busy scrolling down your tab, knowing that it would be too easy for him to see what you are feeling if he ever meets your eyes.

With your head down and your eyes looking away, avoiding his eyes and his intense gaze, you curse yourself for letting this feeling grow this far and for failing to notice its presence until it is too late. Far too late. And you cannot let it grow even deeper.

You shouldn’t.

Because you should not be feeling anything when you look at him. Not when he never looks at you the same way you do to him. You need to remind yourself that you are both living in two completely different worlds.

And you are living in a world where loving him is not an option.

“_______!”

A familiar voice echoes through the hallway just as you are leaving the recording studio.

Today is the second day for Jimin’s pre-recording session for his duet, and once again, he had asked you to stay and join the process. Right now, as Jimin and the other recording staff are still finishing up in the recording room, you had excused yourself to take a lunch break, since they are about to have an evaluation that you have no part of anyway.

You turn around just as the person who had shouted your name comes closer. His bright face coming into view, giving you a broad smile as he matches your steps. “Jung Hoseok. How are you?”

“I’m doing pretty fine,” he says with a broad smile. He looks at you up and down, not even hiding his flirty smile as he tilts his head at you. “Don’t you look lovely today.”

Your cheeks flame and you wave it off. “Oh, please. I know you don’t mean that. But thank you,” you tell him while trying to hide your shy smile.

Hoseok is another artist under the company that you have become friends with for the past few years. He had already gained his own fame and success as an underground rapper and dancer for years before finally joining the company two years ago. Before you knew him personally, you had already become a fan of his that it didn’t take long for you to connect with each other. And you must admit that you have developed an innocent crush on the rapper at some point that you would always feel a bit skittish and shy whenever he was around.

It has been a while since you have met him but he still treats you the same. Always with a ton of bright smile and sly remarks that could make a girl squirm.

“I am always honest when I give my compliments,” he tells you as he joins you to walk down the hallway. “What brings you here today? Is your boss around?”

You give him a nod. “He has a pre-recording session today and he wants me to stick around.”

“Did he, now?” he asks you, raising his brows before looking ahead, keeping a small smile with him as he walks beside you.

“Are you heading out to lunch?” you question him as you are both heading towards the elevator and he only shrugs.

“I’m heading downstairs to the cafeteria and see what they have. I think they have bulgogi specials on the menu. Want to join me?”

You chuckle softly. “Sure, why not?”

Being around Hoseok is like a breath of fresh air.

He is an open book when it comes to his thoughts and feelings, and there is no need for you to tread carefully or to pretend to be someone you are not when you are around him. He is such an easy person to be around, while at the same time, pretty easy in the eyes.

His smile is also quite contagious that you cannot help but have it permanently plastered on your face as you sit with him through lunch. You talk about everything through the meal, and the conversation flows so easily between you as if you have been close friends for so many years.

“How much longer are you planning to work for him?” he suddenly asks you mid-conversation, just as you finished talking about some of the tasks you had recently done for Jimin.

You look up to him from your chicken frittata. A line forms between your brows while his eyes are glowing with mirth. “I’m sorry?”

Hoseok smiles warmly, in a way that you could see his dimples appearing through. “I just fired my assistant last week, since he kept messing up with my work itinerary and my schedules will be tighter with my tour starting soon. I’m not sure if you’ve heard anything about it yet, but I have the position open for the time being. You know that I’ve always wanted to work with you and you are excellent in your work. I really could have someone like you in my team.”

Your throat suddenly feels dry. Even his voice sounds like an echo that you are not sure if you are hearing him right. You grab your glass and chug on your iced water before you could find your voice again. “Are you offering me the job?”

He only responds to you by playfully wiggling his eyebrows. “What do you think?”

This is it, you hear your conscience screaming. This is your way out, your escape.

He leans closer, keeping his voice down when he speaks. “I also got some insight from Jimin’s agent who told me that he hasn’t been paying you enough. So if you agree to join my team, I’ll pay you twice the wage he gives you. I’ll even raise your pay three times of what he is giving you if you can handle all the lengthy tours and the small gigs I have every month in the nightclubs too. What do you say?”

You open your mouth, then close it again. Feeling elated for the offer, but at the same time, you feel nervous to even consider it. The offer really does sound appealing. Especially when it comes with bigger pay. You could already picture all the bills that you have been falling behind in paying, the things you could possibly buy, the places you could go to.

“I’m going to admit that it is definitely a generous offer,” you manage to squeak out, earning another big grin coming from him.  

“I knew you’d agree.”

“But—” you quickly stop him before he could say anything more. “I’m going to need some time to think about it and if—I mean, ’if’—I am taking this offer, I’ll need to have a transition period before transferring myself to you. Jimin has just returned from his tour as well and I’m still easing him back into his tight schedule, so there are already some adjustments that still need to be done even without me leaving the team.”

Hoseok chuckles knowingly. “His team. Of course,” he mutters. It is not a secret that even if Jimin does have a team of staff backing him up, he would always run to you first. “Well, take your time and think about it. Think carefully about it. Then you can call me when you’ve made a decision,” he says, looking pleased with himself and confident as he leans back in his seat. Grabbing his glass of water, Hoseok looks at you with a sly grin. “But are you sure that is all?”

“What do you mean?”

He keeps his eyes on you as he takes a hefty drink, taking his sweet time with it as if he is taunting you. The moment he puts his drink away, a smug grin comes onto his face. “Jimin has a way to make a woman feel special and needed, just to keep them stringing along however he pleases. I was thinking if that’s also the case between the two of you, since you’ve been around each other for a long time.”

Your eyes grow wide, and you quickly shake your head vigorously. “I can assure you that there is nothing going on between us, if that’s what you’re implying,” you tell him with a scoff. “Jimin might be a tough case to handle, but I do love this job. The other people working around him have been the most remarkable and having them around really helps.”

“Really? Nothing at all?” he asks, sounding intrigued. “I’d thought with a gorgeous woman like you, Jimin would have made a move to win you over.” His words send your cheeks flaming, and your eyes grow wide. Meanwhile, he only laughs it off, obviously pleased to see your reaction.

“But you know what, it’s quite a relief to know that he hasn’t,” he adds with a smirk, and it takes everything in you to hold your jaw from falling.

Is he flirting with you?

The old you would have been pleased to find any hint of interest coming from him, though you might also be feeling disappointed to know that his interest had come with a job offer. But all you could focus on and care about now is the offer itself.

A better job, since he seems to be easy to work for and he has a huge team backing him up that you probably won’t have to do too much work, and with better payment.

Yes, you only have the job offer in your mind. Because no matter how many times Hoseok leans closer, how often he brings himself to playfully touch your hand or whisper close, and how often he compliments and flirts with you through lunch, there is nothing brewing inside you. There is no flutter in your chest, no heat burning on your cheeks from his flattery, and the only thing you could feel is guilt.

As if you are betraying Jimin.

Simply by sitting here with another gorgeous man who won’t stop flirting with you, and actually considering taking the job offer, to leave his side before you could risk breaking your heart.

It would be the best option for both of you for the long haul before you could risk what you currently have with him.

Yet why is it so hard for you to imagine yourself walking away from Park Jimin?

“Tie, or no tie?”

It is Friday night, and you are at Jimin’s apartment to help him get ready for his family dinner. As always, he had gone straight to you for advice. He looks lost as he comes to you with a blue tie on his right hand while his black suit is still folded and hanged on his left forearm.

“I think the tie would be too much. The suit is enough. Let those buttons loose to go for a more simple and informal look.”

Nodding his head, Jimin begins loosening a few of the top buttons on his shirt. The sight of him doing it makes your heart race that you force yourself to focus on his face. He doesn’t even notice it when he is so focused on putting on his suit, muttering with a sigh, “My parents rarely have these fancy dinners I don’t even know what would be suitable to wear on these things.”

You approach him, helping him with his black suit after taking away the useless tie from his hand. “This is a special night for your parents. It has been a while since every member of your family can finally come together so I’m sure they have put a lot of effort in preparing for this night,” you tell him once he has his suit on. You step back once he seems to be ready, taking your time to assess his looks before adding, “Tonight will be the first time for you to be there instead of sending flowers and gifts in your place. As long as you don’t show up with a plain T-shirt and jeans, I’m sure this look would be okay.”

Again, Jimin simply nods. “Noted.”

“The gifts for your parents have been loaded into the car, so you won’t be missing them. I’ve asked the driver to help you carry the packages once you are there.”

“Right,” he mutters with a deep sigh. “That’s perfect. I wouldn’t have thought of that.”

You remain rooted at where you are while he turns to look at himself through the mirror, tugging and smoothing down the front side of his suit before he runs his hand through his hair, trying to go for a more messy look.

“Alright. Well, if that’s all you need, then I think I should leave for the night,” you politely say to him once you notice that he doesn’t seem to be needing your help anymore. “Enjoy your dinner.”

Jimin quickly turns around just as you begin to move away. “Wait—you’re leaving?”

Stopping on your tracks, you look at him with a questioning gaze. “Do you still need something?” you ask. “We have gone through the rundown for tomorrow morning. I won’t be needed until then.”

You watch as his brows crease, as if he is thinking hard about something. “That’s true, but you’re always here. You know, when I get home. You’d be here.”

“Ah, well—” you sigh, not knowing what to say. “I usually stay late to make sure that you are well rested before a show and make sure you’d keep up with your itinerary since we normally don’t have time to do it in the morning. But we’ve gone through all of that, so—”

“Do you play chess?” he suddenly cuts you off, making you stop.

“I’m sorry?”

“Chess. Tonight, once I’m done with this dinner. Would you like to stay and play?”

You open your mouth, yet the question dies in your throat. “I don’t really know how to play—”

Again, he frowns. Yet the determined look in his eyes stays. “Right. Then you can choose something else. Anything. You can even pick a movie if you’d like. Just—stay and keep me company,” he rambles on, keeping his eyes on you the whole time. Just as you begin to speak, or to question him about it, Jimin quickly adds, “I—uh, I know I should be resting tonight, but I’ve been getting trouble sleeping since I got back so maybe you can help me drain my energy after the dinner party so I won’t have to drink myself to sleep.”

You say nothing at first. Hope, uneasiness, hesitance, all mixing into one. The refusal is right there, already hanging on the tip of your tongue. Yet the look he is giving you makes it seem like he is not going to give up so easily until you give in.

“Alright. If that’s what you need. I’ll be here when you get back.”

The smile that comes to him is genuine, mixed in with relief when he whispers, “Good.”

The night has grown late.

You have sent all of the staff home for the night and it feels weird to be the only one remains in this spacious apartment without Jimin even around.

Looking at the time, you know that Jimin is bound to be home soon.

You have been pacing back and forth in his living room, feeling uneasy of staying this late and knowing that you are going to have to talk to him tonight. You have spent the last few days considering Hoseok’s offer, and the more resigned you have been feeling after you finally acknowledged your feelings for Jimin, the more you feel that taking the job offer would be the best option. And while you have been waiting for Jimin to return from dinner, your mind has somehow been made up to actually take the job.

Perhaps the transfer is a good idea, after all. Maybe, with more distance between you, you could finally live your life without having to constantly pretend and feel like you are pushed to the edge.

And these feelings you have for him would be a distant memory.

Just as you stop pacing and start twisting your hands together, you hear his footsteps coming through the foyer. It doesn’t take him long to reach the living room. His eyes brighten as he catches the sight of you. His coat has been slung over his shoulder, and you curse the fact that he looks even sexier now when he is exhausted and spent compared to how he looked before he left.

“You’re still here,” he says, almost not believing that you are actually standing there.

“I’m here for you,” you respond to him automatically, and you could swear that you hear his breath hitching for a moment before you add, “You did ask me to stay. How was dinner?”

He gives you a smile that makes your heart ache. “It was great. Lovely. My parents loved the gifts.”

“I’m glad,” you nod, then follow his gaze when he looks over to the table behind you, where you had laid out a bunch of board games you could find and a few DVDs to pick and watch. “I may have gone a bit overboard,” you sheepishly tell him as he walks past, touching the pile of boxes and carefully picking through them.

“You went all out,” he chuckles.

“I couldn’t make up my mind. And I think you’ve seen more movies than I do so I have no idea which ones that you haven’t watched yet.”

He tosses his suit aside, letting it fall on the armrest of the loveseat while he sits by the table. “Right. Let’s see—”

You walk closer, taking tentative steps to join him. “I might have to warn you that I have no experience in board games other than Monopoly.”

Waving his hand at you, he only laughs it off. “I don’t mind. Let’s try to start with something easy. Take a seat.”

His eyes rake down on you as you move to take the seat in front of him. “What the hell are you wearing?” he asks, sounding a bit irritated at the sight of your pencil skirt.

“The same clothes that I usually wear for work.”

Jimin scoffs. “Well, you’re no longer working now and it’s ridiculous to wear that when we’re playing board games,” he says. “Go to my room and grab a T-shirt. There are sweatpants and shorts too in the drawers. You know where to find them.”

“But, Sir. I—”

“And those heels. God, I’m sure your toes would thank you if you take those things off. Wear the house slippers that my Mom always wears when she’s here.”

“But—”

The way he raises his eyebrows makes you stop. “______, go change.”

You press your lips together and nod. “Right. Yes, Sir.”

You move quickly into his bedroom, choosing the first T-shirt you see and the shorts that you had helped the staff place in his drawers this morning. Relief washes over you the minute you have taken your tight fit clothes off and changed them into his clothes, and you softly moan with relief the moment your feet touch the cold floor. The heels do make your feet sore.

Being here in his room, wearing his clothes, his scent engulfs you, drowning you with his presence. You rush out of his room with your head spinning after wearing your hair down.

The heat of his gaze is the one that makes you look up when you return to the living room. His eyes rake down on you once again, this time with a hint of awe in them before they stop at your bare legs. “That looks—a lot better,” he says, and there is no doubt this time that there is a subtle groan in his voice when he says it.

You almost rear back, heat flooding your cheeks that you simply feel like you have to look away. “Thank you, Sir.”

He scoffs again, a bit lighter this time and with a smile when he responds, “And stop calling me with that. I already said you’re not working now.”

Technically, you are still working when you are only here to fulfil his wishes. But the look in his eyes stops you from saying a thing.

“So—monopoly, huh?”

Pressing your smile, you join him on the game table. Hoping that you could at least get on his good side before you could finally deliver the news of you leaving.

You never would have thought that playing board games with Jimin could be a lot of fun. If there is any side of him that you have yet to see, it would be this—the man who refuses to lose and continues to whine each time you win a score on him.

He looks at you just as you laugh, both of you have grown more relaxed than you had ever been when you are together. As your laughter dies down and your pulse returns to normal, you find him still looking at you.

“Is there something wrong?”

He smiles. “Except for the fact that I’m losing?” he chuckles. “Nothing’s wrong.”

Jimin looks down, picking up on the dice with his fingers, yet making no move to toss it back on the table. Before you could even bring it up, Jimin suddenly lifts his face and speaks first.

“There is something—” he begins, looking at you with an intense gaze. “I saw you with Jung Hoseok the other day.”

Your brows rise up. “Yes. I did encounter him at the recording company.”

“You seemed close. But I already know that you’re friends with him,” he says, giving you a smile that doesn’t quite reach his eyes. “What were you talking about that made you seem tense and excited at the same time? You also went quiet for the rest of the day after spending the lunch hour with him.”

Your pulse starts to race once again. The thought of telling him about your plans of resigning from your position had already left you somewhere between stealing his properties and draining out his money during the game. You had it all planned out inside your head for the past few days—how you are going to bring up the resignation, how you are going to offer to be the one giving the interview in finding your replacement, and how you are going to hand out your tasks to them once he has chosen someone to take your place.

But now, everything vanishes under his prying gaze.

There is something new in his eyes. Something that you had never seen before whenever he looks at you. He leans closer, propping his elbows on top of the table.

“Is there something you’d like to tell me?”

His words come out gentle, but you certainly hate the accusing tone that hangs around his question. It irritates you. Enough to finally straighten yourself up and finally let the truth that has been bothering you to come out.

“He offered me a job. A position as his personal assistant after he lost the previous one he’s been working with.”

There is no shock registered on his face, but the air suddenly trickles with tension when he slowly leans back, crossing his arms over his chest. “And what did you say?”

You nibble on your lips. “I told him that I would consider it.”

His jaw ticks. He definitely does not like to hear that. “And what have you considered so far?”

The next part will not be easy. Yet now that everything has been laid out in the open, you have no other choice but to square up and brace yourself as you finally admit to everything. “I have been considering to take it,” you tell him, clenching your hands on your lap to stop yourself from shaking. “He made me a good offer that sounds too hard for me to resist. I love my job and I know I’ve worked for you long enough to be good at it, but he is giving me an opportunity to do something better.”

“An opportunity?” he sneers. “And you really think that it’s the only thing he is interested in giving you?”

“What do you mean?”

Scoffing, Jimin starts shaking his head. “Hoseok is a known player. I’m sure you’ve heard it too, since you’re good friends with him. He loves to play around, to lure any willing female by saying things that he knows they want to hear just to get them into his bed.”

Perhaps he is simply warning you to save you from getting into trouble, but the demeaning tone of his voice only angers you. Hearing your own employer saying things to make it seem like the better offer that you have been hoping to get has been nothing but a scam to get you into a man’s bed sounds degrading, and it pricks at your pride that you suddenly feel like defending it.

“Funny how he said exactly the same about you. And since I’ve been the one brushing off all of the rumours shadowing you and I had been the one to send all your stalkers and obsessed exes away in the past, I know that there is at least some truth in what he said.”

This time, his eyes grow wide in shock. As if your words had served as a slap to his face. Even worse, you are overwhelmed with guilt the minute you said it.

With a remorseful gasp, you mutter an apology before pushing yourself off of your seat. “I think I should go.”

“Wait—” you hear him trying to stop you, but you choose to ignore him. You hold yourself back from looking over your shoulder to see his reaction to your outburst as you leave him behind and rush towards the exit.

Before you could even make it out of the living room, Jimin catches up with you and catches you by your elbow. You turn to him, feeling your pulse racing faster the moment you see the desperation in his eyes.

“Don’t go,” he gently whispers. “Please.”

“It’s late. And we’re both tired and emotional. I don’t think I should stay here any longer than I should. We can probably discuss this further tomorrow so that—”

“I’m not just saying it for tonight,” he immediately stops you from talking. His hold on your arm tightens as he reaches out to hold the other, keeping you steady in front of him so he could look at you straight in the eyes when he says, “I’m talking about everything. Don’t leave me.”

“There are many others who could take my place. I really think it’s time that I move on—” because I have no idea how much longer I could keep this feeling a secret, “—and it would be best for you to find a more capable assistant to—”

This time, he doesn’t stop you with his words. With a not-so-gentle tug, he pulls you close. Your body falls against him with your palms landing on his chest, before he catches your lips with his own, stopping every rambling thoughts and denial threatening to come out of your lips with a kiss.

For a brief second, the world seems to stop turning.

It barely registers to you what is happening, as his lips brush gently against your mouth before he crushes them together with an earth-shattering kiss. The moan escapes your throat before you could stop it, and he uses it to dip his tongue inside, brushing it against yours. He sucks at the corners of your lips, kissing, teasing, until a few more moans come slipping out of you and the tension on your body slowly fades.

Your palms are still pressed on his chest when he slowly pulls back, while his arms had somehow found their way to wrap themselves around your waist. Being curled against his body, he has kept you as his prisoner. There is no escape for you when his lips find yours again, taking it gently this time when he takes your breath away with another kiss.

There is no other option but to surrender to him. To let yourself get lost in his warmth and in the recklessness of his kiss. Your hands are clenched tight against his shirt as you fall further into the delusion, letting your mind take its sweet time to let it sink in before you realise that this isn’t real.

Because it cannot be possible that after all this time, he really wants you. That he wants you just enough to be kissing you with this much desperation.

Your body stumbles to find balance when he pulls away. But with his arms around you, he helps to keep you up against him, making sure that you are close enough to hear his words when he whispers breathlessly,

“I tried—” he says, his voice is thick with emotions. “I tried so hard to pretend that I don’t feel a thing, that I’m not constantly looking your way whenever you’re near. That I don’t think of you even after you’ve left for the day.”

You could only stare at him, your throat burning with the threat of tears. Digging your nails into your own palms, you inflict pain to repel the pleasure that has been caused by hearing his words. Perhaps the pain could also wake you up from this dream, because there is no way that Park Jimin is actually saying those words.

To you.

“Sir, I—”

He opens his eyes, giving you a look which is both hungry and in despair when he begs, “Don’t call me that. Call me by my name.”

“Jimin—”

The sound of your voice calling his name ignites something inside him that he releases a deep groan.

His palms tighten against your covered skin as he pulls you back to him, his kiss grows deeper when he takes you again. Soft growls escaping with every touch, every time you return his kiss with the same need. Your fingers somehow find their way to slide up, tangling themselves through his silky hair the more you are lost in him.

“Tell me you don’t want this. Push me away. Hit me. Tell me I’m a bastard and get out of here while you still can,” he growls in your ear, kissing along your neck and throat before he begins letting you go. Except that you won’t let him.

Deep down, you know that you are heading to a new territory, and there is no return from this if you let it happen. But you also don’t want him to stop. Reaching up, you cup his face with your palms when you ask him,

“What if I want this? What if I want everything you want to give me? What if I want you?”

His palms run down against your ass, clutching on them possessively when he continues to kiss you, then uses the tight hold around your body to hoist you against him so he could take you with him into his bedroom.

The next thing you know, he is dropping you on his bed. He helps you lie down on your back while his kisses trail down the column of your throat. He makes a quick work on your clothes, pulling them off before peeling off his own until he is down on his briefs and you are simply covered in your lacy bra and panties.

“You are incredible,” he whispers as he takes in the sight of you, his hungry gaze running down your body before he finally climbs up the bed.

Your whole body melts so easily against him as he lowers himself, his chest brushing against your body as his lips crash against yours. His mouth moving gently on yours while his hands run down your body, each tip of his fingers leaving hot trails on your skin.

His skin feels hot and smooth under your fingers as you run them down his back, tracing the lines and angles of his muscles and spine, making him flex against them. His tongue flicks against yours while he bucks his hips into you, and your arousal comes to you like a flame licking at your center.

Lost in your own desire, your body begins to move on its own. Your hips swivel beneath him, pushing up your center against his crotch. You moan at the feeling of the rigid shaft hiding beneath his briefs as you brush against him, your pussy throbbing with need.

Jimin pushes himself up only to begin trailing his kisses down your body. His eyes flicker up to look at your face for a moment, waiting for you to stop him, only that you simply nod, urging on him to continue.

He lowers his head, pushing the intricate lace front of your bra out of the way so he could lay a kiss on your breast. He begins gently, kissing around the hardened nub before taking its peak into his mouth, sucking and nibbling the perked nipple until the pleasure comes running down your body.

As the pleasure intensifies, he takes the other peak and does the same thing, feeling the other nipple hardening against his tongue before he bites on it, sending pain and pleasure which you embrace with a breathless cry.

With one hand, he kneads at the other breast, while he finds the source of your heat between your legs with the other. Another cry escapes through your lips as he presses against the soaked center of your lace panties, finding your folds easily and presses down on it, before his thumb brushes against your covered clit.

Your arousal comes flooding out, and your cries intensify as he presses harder, sending your hips jolting up, swivelling above the sheets, pressing against his fingers so he could release you from the agony building up inside.

All of a sudden, he pulls back and starts crawling down. His hot kisses burning your skin and your pulse rises the moment you feel his hot breath falling on your covered mound. He pulls your legs apart, sliding between them before pressing his mouth on your covered pussy.

“Jimin—!”

His lips move hungrily around your clit, and his fingers run an electric pattern when he brushes at the slit, before sliding the panties aside so he could slide his fingers and tongue inside. You buck your hips each time he rolls his mouth on your swollen bud from over the lace, then cry out as his fingers slide in, moving deeper each time you move your fingers.

You have never felt more alive than you do now. As if each kiss, each touch he gives has made your body come wide awake. There is a fiery current running up and down your body, from the tip of your hardened nipples to your core. And he is there, orchestrating every single sensation, every impulse, while he continues igniting all the new ones.

“You’re getting wetter and wetter, ______,” he grunts against your cunt. “I think I can make you come like this.”

He barely manages to finish his sentence, and already you are losing the battle. With one swift push, his fingers reach deeper, pushing deep against your walls while thrusting you over the edge, and you erupt under his talented mouth and delicate fingers. Your body arches while your pussy walls throb wildly around his fingers.

“Jimin, I’m coming—!”

“That’s it, baby. Fuck my fingers and cum around it,” he groans. His tongue flicks to the side, sliding past the lace and finds your clit. He pushes his fingers deep, and takes your clit between his teeth, sending you to another bliss until you see nothing but white clouds under your eyelids.

He helps you come down from your high with a few gentle thrusts of his fingers, his tongue licking your release until your panties grow soaked and start clinging against your skin. As the soft spasms of your climax start to wane, your walls begin to throb with a new desire.

“I want you, Jimin,” you breathlessly beg him, looking up to him just as he reaches down, stroking his cock from over his briefs. Judging from the rigid lines, it is obvious how his cock has grown so hard it looks almost painful while being locked under the restraints of his briefs. “I want you inside me.”

With a low growl, Jimin pushes his briefs down before he does the same to you. He grabs the side of your panties and rips it off of your hips. The shock of having your last barrier snapped away from you is followed by the sight of the glorious, throbbing rod of steel pointing at you the moment he releases himself from his last restraint.

He barely gives you any time to recover from the shock as he nudges your thighs wider apart and positions the thick head of his cock at your opening. Instead of pushing, he guides himself to move away, guiding himself up and down your slit and then forming a circle around your slick entrance, up to your clit, then back again, until he finds a rhythm that leaves you breathless.

“This. I’ve pictured this so many times before,” he says, grunting softly as he continues rubbing himself against you, making you squirm and shift beneath him each time he moves his cock up and down between your cleft, brushing the hard tip against your throbbing, needy core.

Your hips begin to move, feeling the need to have him inside you. There is no doubt in your mind that he could easily see how desperate you are for him when he never looks away from you. But he takes his time. His hips moving and swivelling slowly as he guides himself between your legs, his eyes moving down your body until his gaze connects to yours.

“You’ve thought of me?”

“You have been a huge part of my fantasy. I kept pushing it away because I couldn’t afford to lose you. I've been so afraid for you to find out only for you to run away. So I chose to ignore it, until that night—” he says, stopping when his emotion makes him choke, the words getting caught in his throat that he has to clench his jaw before he could find his voice again without trembling. “Until I saw you that night, wearing that little nightdress, looking vulnerable and unguarded, and all I could ever think about since then was to take you into my bed and make love to you until you would no longer look at me with resentment, that you would never look at anyone else but me, ever again.”

Your mouth drops open, before rounding into a silent moan as he slowly pushes himself into you. His presence has always been so strong. But now, it sure feels like he is everywhere. His warmth enveloping you as he hovers on top of your body, his length buried between your walls, throbbing at the same rhythm as your pulse, and he is deep inside your mind, right where he always has been. Except that you also find him inside the deep recesses that you have never allowed yourself to go to, never knowing that he has been there all along.

His smile is gentle when he looks down on your face, as if he could easily see that he had broken through the last wall you have put on to keep him out, yet there is no gentleness in his thrust as he enters you once again with one strong push.

Your body rocks with intense pleasure as he is finally inside you, filling you up. It feels so powerful that it knocks the air out of your chest and makes your mind grow numb. But your body reacts on its own, as your hands reach down to grab the sheets beneath you, clutching them tightly with your fingers and hold on as you push your hips to him. He wastes no time and starts pumping in and out, hard and fast, and you rock against him, your thighs spread for him and your hands are now clutching tight on his shoulders while moans after moans slip out of your lips with pure need.

He sets his hands on your knees, sliding them along your inner thighs as he gently pushes your legs wider apart for him. With your legs slightly pushed upwards, his cock moves in to a new angle. He reaches deeper as the next thrust comes, pushing the tip of his cock against the sweet spot inside you, earning a gasping moan from you. With a chuckle, he continues to push his cock against the very same spot, again and again. Soon, he has your legs quaking hard around him and your body growing tight with the rising pleasure rushing through you in massive waves.

He continues pounding into you, your bodies slapping together with a punishing, angry rhythm. The sound of skin slapping against skin, his feral grunts and your needy moans, are all mixing together as they continue to fill the room.

“Do you really think that you could leave me? When all I’ve done is to hold back, too afraid to act on what I feel for you because if I’d lose you, I’d lose everything. The only person who could handle me, the only person I trust, and the only person I care about. How could I let you go when I can’t stop thinking about you, every day and night, even when you’re near me?”

He sounds desperate and angry, and you feel his emotion rushing out of him as his thrusts continue to come harder and faster with every word he says. Instead of pain, your body reacts to the pleasure, beckoning him to give you more.

“Don’t stop,” you beg him while you keep swivelling your hips, pushing yourself against him so he could keep hitting deep inside your heat. “Please, don’t stop.”

“I couldn’t even if I wanted to, baby. But I’ve been waiting for this a long time, I want to make this last and you’re gripping me tight—fuck,” he groans, his hips twitching against you as he holds back from releasing himself into his climax far too soon.

Slowing his strokes into a sensual grind, he lowers his head and sucks on your breasts, his hot mouth moving from one tip to the other, suckling on your hard bud and taking each one between his teeth with an urgency that sends your body throbbing in both pleasure and pain as he continues fucking you.

His name comes out in desperate sobs while you continue grinding your hips, moving faster just as he deepens his strokes. You reach up above your head, finding the headrest where you then press your palms against its surface to anchor yourself when he keeps sending your body jolting upward with each hard thrust he gives you.

“Shit,” he groans raggedly, his eyes watching you closely before reaching down to rub your engorged clit.

“Jimin—”

Anchoring himself with a tight grip on your hips, he leans up to kiss your lips. “God, I imagined this for so long. I fucking love you, ______.”

Tears spring to your eyes. Your heart soars as you hear his words. “I—I think I love you too,” you answer him with a sob, both from the emotions that come up to you in intense waves and for the pleasure he is giving you.

He thrusts into you, again and again, pounding hard and deep within your clutching walls. Crying out with pleasure, you come in a sudden plunge around his cock, yet you keep on riding his length while your eyes are closed tight, embracing the waves of your climax. Your screams echo against the walls of his bedroom, followed by his deep grunt as he pushes deep inside you a few more times until his orgasm comes to him in an exploding bliss.

He erupts inside you with a raw groan, pumping furiously into you through his release. The force of his hot cum spurting deep into your pussy sends you to another bliss running through your veins, sweeping off any logic, leaving you in a tight bubble that you feel building around you as you hold him close. A safe space where you could share this moment with him forever.

Moments pass by slowly as if time had stopped, and you linger in this position even as the spasms of your orgasm has faded into nothing. He too has grown lax against you, his arms still wrapped around your middle as if he is trying to anchor you in the present. It takes a while before he finally drops himself beside you. And he quickly finds you again, his arms reaching out to pull you into his chest before you could even think of running away.

Snuggled close against him as you are both bathing in the afterglow of your mind-bending sex, you listen to the steady thrum of his heartbeat while the questions keep running inside your mind.

“What happens now?” you whisper to him.

Jimin tightens his arm around you, pressing you to his chest. “Now, we sleep. Tomorrow, you are going to hand me your resignation letter.”

“What—?”

He shush you just as you push yourself up, but the protest dies down on your tongue the moment you meet his eyes. “I can’t have my girlfriend working as my assistant. What kind of rumours we’ll be seeing on the gossip news when people finds out that we’re fucking?”

“Girl—girlfriend?”

“I want you, _____,” he whispers, kissing the tip of your nose after he said it. His eyes burning into you. “And I know you want me too.”

You choke out a sob before admitting to him. And yourself. “I do.”

“Then be my girlfriend. Please?”

You release a sigh. There is no more reason for you to deny everything. “Yes. I will,” you answer him before leaning in for a kiss. “And I’ll help you find a new assistant to take my place. soon. But then I’d still need a new job.”

He frowns. “There’s no need to. You will no longer be my assistant, but I still want you to be with me. I can’t do this thing without you,” he says, looking a bit sheepish when he admits how much he has grown dependent on you. Another reason why he couldn’t be honest with himself despite what he feels for you. “You are the only one capable of handling everything around me, to help organise my life when I couldn’t. I want us to not only be lovers, but also partners. And I promise you, I’ll treat you better.”

Kissing your forehead, he gently adds, “I know I’ve been a complete dick to you for years,” he says, to which you laugh as you agree with him. “But that’s only because I was too afraid to admit how much I care and how much I need you. I’ll treat you better. I promise. And I promise that I’ll take care of you.”

Your heart swells, but fear also comes crawling inside your chest. Too many things are happening too fast, but right here in his arms, you know that you can work things out. With him. “I promise to take care of you too.”

Jimin gives you a smile before he takes your lips in his.

“You always do, ______. You’ve always been taking care of me. It’s my turn now.”

➬ Author’s Note | Thank you for reading^^ The extended version of this story (unedited/deleted scenes included) is now available on my Patreon!

➬ The story continues: Falling - the trilogy

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