#Sojung x reader

[vex91]

Chu Sojung - Doesn't matter

Pairing: Chu Sojung x Female Reader

Fandom: WJSN

Requested by: @slowlydifferentbluebird

Request: I'm here to ask some content for my WJSN bias, Exy 😌

What about Exy getting a crush on Dayeon's best friend(the Reader) but she can't accept easily the fact you're younger so she acts all tsundere. I'll let you choose the genre: fluff, angst, suggestive or a mix of them lol

Keep your good work and stan WJSN, y'all ❤

Zazá

Summary: Sojung never went for younger girls, most of the time it were women her age but for some reason something was drawing her to you and in the end she couldn't fight it.

Warning(s): Smut, 18+ content, 5 years age difference, fingering

A/N: Thank you for requesting friend, hope you'll like it❤ I don't trust people who don't shake their ass when unnatural is playing😒

3rd's POV

"Guys, my friend will come over today so please behave today alright?" Sojung look up from her phone at the sound of Dayoung's voice. It wasn't an everyday occurrence for the girl to bring her friends to the dorm so it surprised the older girl "Are you saying that we don't know how to behave?" Juyeon who was making a snack for herself asked from the kitchen, Dayoung nodded earning a glare from the other girl. Jiyeon who was sitting next to Sojung just nodded and got back to texting someone.

The rest of the morning went by pretty normally or at least as normal as it could be at their dorm but the thought of Dayoung bringing home a friend kept appearing in Sojung's mind. Since Dayoung herself out of all of them wanted them to behave then this friend had to be special which only made the older girl more excited to meeting her.

Finally the time for you to arrive came and all the members were in the living room, pretending to be doing something there but it was obvious that they wanted to catch a glimpse of you. A doorbell rang and Dayoung ran up to the door, opening them and jumping on you for a hug "Aww I missed you so much Y/N, we really need to hang out more" All of them could hear you laughing at your friend's behavior and Sojung's heart skipped a beat at the sound of it.

It was beautiful.

Dayoung pulled you inside and showed you off to the other members "Guys this is Y/N and Y/N you already know their names" Sojung's eyes landed on you and she swore in that moment that she never saw anyone more beautiful than you looked right now. Her eyes couldn't leave you even when Dayoung started dragging you to her room, she only looked away when Juyeon elbowed her lightly. Looking to the side she only saw younger girl's smirk and she already knew where it was going so before she could say anything more, Sojung quickly excused herself to her own room.

But her mind was still plagued with you.

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

In the end Sojung was too big of a shy coward to ask Dayoung about you so she asked Hyunjung to do it for her because she knew that out of all the members she would probably tease her the least. That's how she managed to find some informations about you and honestly she wasn't sure if she should be happy or sad.

You were 5 years younger than her.

Nothing out of ordinary except the fact that Sojung never dated girls younger than her, especially 5 years younger. Her pride of never falling for younger girls started wavering ever since she met you and despite wanting to get to know you better, she hesitated. What would Dayoung think? Or even you, were you even into older women?

This made her act cold towards you whenever you came over to their dorm or just visited them during practice. You asked Dayoung about it because honestly it made you kinda sad that she ignored you like that, you thought that it was because of something you did so you felt guilty. If only you knew that in reality Sojung just wanted to have you all to herself even when she wasn't able to express it well.

In her room whenever she felt turned on and masturbated, all she thought about was you and how she needed you. During times like these she hated her stupid pride because if it wasn't for it then she would already confessed. Now it seemed like a distant dream.

Well at least until that one night.

You came over to sleep over at their dorm. At some point Dayoung was called to the studio for something important so you were left alone in her room. Sojung went to the room to retrieve her headphones that she left there before but she didn't expected you to be there alone. You locked eyes and the atmosphere changed "I-I just came to grab my headphones. I won't disturb you long" Quickly grabbing her headphones Sojung was about to leave before your voice stopped her "W-Wait, can you stay" She hesitated but in the end she had a hard time declining, so she took a sit on the bed next to you.

Silence took over the room, you sat awkwardly next to each other not knowing how to start a conversation. You looked like teenagers instead of grown adults in that moment. The awkwardness was painful to both of you so you decided to break it and find out something that bothered you for a while now.

"Did I.. did something wrong that bothered you?" Sojung looked up at you with a confused face "Did something? Why?" Now it was your turn to look confused because how she didn't knew about it when she clearly avoided you "I mean, I must have did something wrong right? You avoid and ignore me ever since we met" Finally understanding what you meant Sojung felt guilt creeping inside her. She never meant to make you feel like you did something but now that she thought about it, it did looked like that.

"No you didn't do anything I swear, it's just.. nothing" She looked down, too embarrassed to look at your face but what she said made you curious so you got closer to her and made her look at you. Her breath hitched at the proximity of your faces "It's clearly something, what is it?" The softness of your voice made her blush furiously as she tried to even the beating of her heart, scared that you're close enough to hear it. The closeness only made her more and more desperate for you and you were completely clueless about the effect you had on her.

"You really don't know what you're doing to me huh?" Sojung whispered, you weren't sure what she was talking about until you saw her hands gripping the bed tightly and her flushed face. The dots connected in your head and you started to have an idea about what was going on. Smirking you got even closer to her "Why are you stopping yourself from it then?" Her mind started becoming more and more clouded with the need for you "You're younger than me" Her reply was quick and short, it was getting harder for her to think normally at this point as your scent started enveloping her.

"We're both adults right? It doesn't matter if I'm younger or not, I can make my own decisions and right now I want you to fuck me like you mean it" All the right judgment left Sojung's mind after your words, she quickly connected your lips in a messy kiss. The roughness made you moan against her lips driving the older girl even more crazy. She finally had all she wanted right in front of her and she didn't wanted to stop herself now.

Her hands quickly pulled your pants down, her hand started circling around your clit earning a series of whimpers from you "Dayoung can come back soon so I need to be quick" She kissed you again as her two fingers entered you. Her pace was slow at first but it soon changed and before you knew it, she was slamming her fingers in and out of you with an incredible speed. Just like she said Dayoung could be home anytime so she had to be quick. Soon she found the perfect spot to hit to make you become an even bigger moaning mess. Since the other members were home Sojung tried to swallow all your moans with her mouth as she continued making out with you.

The familiar feeling started creeping in you and soon you came on her fingers. Sojung helped you ride out your orgasm before pulling her fingers out of you and tasting them right in front of you. The moment would last longer but the sound of Dayoung's voice downstairs brought you both to earth, the older girl helped you fix yourself but right before Dayoung came back Sojung whispered something in your ear.

"When Dayoung falls asleep, come to my room for a second round alright?"

Now that she had a taste of you Sojung won't be able to avoid you again, none of you complained about it though.

[fillinforlater]

New Lyrics

Male Reader x Chu Sojung (Exy)

Length: 2170 words

Tags: angry sex, body writing, mutual pinning to walls and chairs, hard sex, riding, cursing, fishnets, fishnet stockings kink, standing sex, creampie, lyrics on your body, lyrics might hit a bit hard to home, idol!Exy /producer!you

Inspiration: the ideas and pictures/gifs send by @friskyriskywhisky

Credit: @friskyriskywhisky for giving the winning requests!

(A/N: I chose this fic as the winner. Reason? Uhm, I liked it a tad bit more, the flow of words was very easy and fuck, I might have a thing for fishnets/stockings in general. Enjoy Exy!)

“Fuck, we’re out of paper.”

Exy crumbles up the final sheet filled with hollow, unfulfilling words and throws it in the corner of the recording booth. She spits out the cap of the marker, which turns out to be a dumb little mistake. As she goes to pick it up from the dark blue carpet, she doesn’t notice the awkward position of her marker. A dark line forms in one of the openings in her fishnet stockings. 

“Watch out,” you laugh at her when she notices. “It won’t come off easily. Or did you want to play tic-tac-toe with me?”

Exy rolls her eyes and licks the tip of her thumb. She rubs the marked spot while groaning in frustration. This recording session has gone nowhere, hell, it hasn’t even started because her text is still bullshit words in a bullshit structure with bullshit rhymes. That’s how she said it, not you, but you tend to agree, it is not a good text.

“You can just type on your phone, you know?” you say into the silence, the booth drowning out any echo.

“I fucking know, but it’s just,” Exy groans again. The marker is still resisting her attempts at cleaning. “It just feels wrong. The lyrics feel like ass on a phone screen. They look dishonest, powerless, and smell like the rotting body of the CEO.”

“Exy,” you sigh and rub the bridge of your nose. “Get your act together. You’re not a child. If you need more paper to figure this out then go get some. I’m literally just here for the recording.”

“Only the recording? I thought we were gonna do something afterwards?” 

Exy raises an eyebrow. She swipes away the free-swinging microphone in a dismissive gesture and glares at you. Tension rises, but you are uncertain if Exy feels the sexual part of it as strong as you do. Judging from the way she crosses her fishnet-covered legs over one another and adjusts her short pencil skirt, she is either very casual about it or tries to seduce you.

But the way Exy then grabs your wrist, you suddenly doubt that you will get lucky tonight. Maybe this is bothering her more than you thought. Maybe the poor lyrics dictated by her company have finally gotten to her. Maybe she is sick and tired of having to save her parts all the time. After all, it’s still business. 

You expect her to pull you up and throw you out into the hallway, however she is pulling something else up: the sleeve of your hoodie. Your bare, entirely clean arm comes to light, just to be met and stained by the black tip of Exy’s marker. Letters quickly taint your skin, from elbow to wrist.

“Nah, fuck that,” you shout and free yourself from her grip. “I’m not your paper. Wait, what the hell is this? You can’t even use this! It’s like only curse words.”

“Yes.”

“Are you crazy? This won’t come off in—fuck, Exy, stop!”

Exy pins you to the back of your chair and continues to scribble. This time, she uses your forehead and cheeks to spread angry syllables. She is surprisingly strong and continues to keep you down long enough for you to be marked by her marker. She forces your head side to side to read the new lyrics, until you’re finally able to break free.

Grab her hips and hammer into the wall. The entire room shakes at the impact and Exy winces. She drops the maker and you quickly pick it up. It might be a childish thing to do, but you are eager to return the favor and paint her face with black curses as well.

“Fuck, asshole!” Exy shouts and stamps on your foot. “Stop it, now!”

“I don’t even think about it,” you growl and firmly hold her beautiful face steady. “Go on, spout your nonsense lyrics so you can read them in the mirror later.”

“Fuck, I hate you!” Exy punches your sides. “I want this to end / our love is nothing but a mess / We have fun at night, but during the day we fight / With all of my might I try to find you ag—

“Why did you stop?”

“I—I,” you stutter, looking at Exy’s fierce eyes that pierce through your mind. “I was just puzzled—ouch, what the—”

Exy gives you a painful punch right above your hips. The jabs she gave before were nothing compared to this, hell, it might even leave you bruised. Exy gets a hold of the marker and continues her artistic outburst on your other arm.

“Those are the lyrics, you moron. Gosh, you should just shut up and be a piece of paper. I try to find you again / but you’re not the same / you’re lame and all my thoughts are in vain.”

The two of you engage in another struggle. This time the fight is more playful, no rough punches, no throwing into the wall. It’s certainly no coincidence that Exy’s blue jacket slides down her slender shoulders to reveal her white crop top with nice, firm melons beneath it. More importantly, she also shows more of her paper-like skin now.

You easily take the marker from her fingers and place it on her exposed biceps. Exy grabs the hem of your hoodie and pulls you right to her face. Her lips are right there, ready to be parted with your tongue, but she denies you the kiss. Instead she moans the lyrics right into your face.

“I just want you back and all the fun we had / Get me out of the dark, the black in my head and throw me—fuck, just write!”

“There is no more space on your arm!”

“Then go further down!” Exy groans and presses herself onto you. You feel her abs flex the same way they do when you fuck her in your bed. Push her back a little and put the tip of the marker on them to write Exy’s euphoric moans.

“Throw me on the bed / Use your tongue, use your hands / don’t give me a chance, make me cum.

“Fuck me right her, right now, fuck!”

Exy’s shaking hands pull up the hem of her pencil skirt. Between her panties and your face are mere inches—and of course her fucking fishnet stockings. The way this tight-knit net wraps around her full thighs always makes your head spin. Exy knows, hence why she is wearing them quite often around you. 

Today, you won’t wait until she pulls them down at home. Your fingers entwine with the fabric and you tear a large irregular hole right at Exy’s crotch. The young woman is eager to pull aside her panties to show you how dripping wet she is. You are eager to get rid of your pants to show her how rigid she makes you. 

“What are you waiting for?” she says, sultry, spit dripping from her lips.

From one confinement to the other. The inside of cotton boxers is traded for the slick insides of Exy’s pussy. The two of you groan in unison as you inch deeper and deeper. Exy stabilizes herself with arms firmly wrapped around your nape, while you reach for her thighs to find a better position to thrust. She is clearly not amused, her patience thinner than a sheet of paper. 

“Can you fucking start alr—oh my God!”

Exy’s mouth is agape, the remainder of her sentence stuck in the back of her throat as you begin to thrust hard. You stare at her face, the black letters and words spread all over it. The lyrics tell the story of a woman desperate for her lover. She wants to be pleased, she begs for it, although the guy is an egocentric asshole.

Maybe you are the asshole for her. At least you will now.

“Shut up, Exy!” you shout right at her, fingers firmly digging into flesh and fishnets. “You better save your voice for that fucking rap. I don’t want my skin to be wasted for nothing.”

“Ts,” Exy manages to hiss as you move your thrust upwards to make your cockhead reach the hottest depths of her tight cavern. “S-stop complaining, you got your revenge. Just, fuck, look at me!”

Exy flaunts her scrawled arms and shoulder to make her point, but you reject it by latching onto her collarbone with your lips. A strong waft of her cherry scent, mixed with the strong alcoholic smell of the marker makes for a weird sensation as you leave a hickey on her.

“Fuck, people might see it,” Exy whines in between her moans. 

“Good, I hope everyone sees it.”

You reach for her butt and give it a firm smack before picking her up. Spin around and pin her against the next wall to continue your hard fucking—at least that was your plan. However, Exy takes a moment of your brief inattention and pushes you back onto your chair.  

Her pussy lips still wrapped around you, she doesn’t wait another second to pounce on you. You know her riding is always intense, but today she is absolutely merciless. Her fingers dig into your shoulder, her teeth bite your lip, her hips fuck you numb. 

You feel your legs begin to tremble, rubbing against the continuously tearing fishnets. Wet sounds and loud moans come from both sets of Exy’s lips as she is fucking herself senseless as well. She has become a beast, unable to control her lust. She will take you down, but she is bound to fall as well.

“Fuck, fuck, Exy, I can’t—”

“Cum, cum already! You fucking ass—ah!”

Thank God the room is soundproof or else the entire building would know of Exy’s violent orgasm. Wails at first, then waves of girl juice that run down your twitching cock. Warm, wet, tight—Exy’s pussy is as perfect as ever. Thank God again that you can blast your cum into it. Your entire body twitches and accidentally pumps all the white batter up into her. 

“We’re not finished!” Exy groans. She tries to adjust herself in a more comfortable position, maybe with you on the ground, but this time you catch her sleeping. With one arm hooked under her knee, you make her stand upright, far enough away from every wall, one leg high in the air. Exy’s flexibility is taken to her limits, but even though she groans in pain, you won’t relent. The only thing that keeps her stable on her one, swaying leg is you.

“You’re fucking right.”

You groan through the initial pain of using your spent cock to pierce Exy open again. With her, a second round is always worth it, no matter the cost or heart-stopping overstimulation. She deserves the hard thrusts deep into her wet core, while you deserve to feel the entirety of her fishnet covered leg. 

“Shit, fuck, fuck,” Exy whimpers into your face before you press a peck on her cheek, right at one of the many obscene words on her skin. Her hands move to zip open her skirt to give her more leg room for the artistic position. You on the other hand opt for more drastic measures: ripping more holes into the dark web. 

Wet skin continues to hit wet skin, even as you decrease the pace a little to make each thrust harder and more precise. Exy giggles when you miss her g-spot and screams in ecstasy when you hit it perfectly. It’s like a game for her, where she can only win, either by seeing the disappointment in your dirty face or by feeling sparks of pleasure fill her breeding hole. 

You hate this kind of game. You just want her to crumble, to succumb to another orgasm on your dick and milk you completely dry. Each minute you spend inside her and not on recording the rap part could lead to awkward questions by the higher ups. Reality is often disappointing, but you won’t go without a bang.

Drop Exy’s leg and instead get a hold of her long hair.

“Exy, you will fucking cum now!”

“What—oh, fuc—ah!”

All your remaining energy is bundled into a final assault on Exy’s cunt. Your cock is a piston on fire, rapidly leaving and penetrating the soft flesh at the right spot. You know Exy too well, she can’t play this stupid game forever. She grits her teeth, but her eyes already roll to the back of her head.

“Cum.

“Cum, Exy, you horny bitch!”

Once again, wet juices all over your base and thighs. The warmth from inside her is spread all over you, so it’s time to give her a good filling. To your massive first load, you add another impressive surge of cum. You pull yourself out, but before all of the white stuff can stain the carpet floor of the booth, you catch it with your hand.

“Ah, fuck. You got a paper towel or something?” you laugh and Exy’s playfully smacks your cheek.

“Get lost, asshole.”

(A/N2: omo, these have really set me ablaze fr)

[rj-s]

I Love You So

Reader x Exy

Not requested

Genre: angst

Words: 263

A/N: I need more wjsn (the black) fics and i love the song and aaaaaa iamsoinlovewithchusojung but idk what this is 😀 i need to start writing fluff 😔 but do we want a part 2 or nah cuz this is kinda shit honestly

When you and Sojung first started dating, everything was perfect.

'I just need someone in my life to give it structure, to handle all the selfish ways you spend your time without her.' you thought.

She gives you butterflies and makes you whole. You felt, complete.

Time flew by, and she started to get home late, and get addicted to her phone. She's been smiling and texting someone. You accidentally saw a text when she was in the shower and the text was rather flirty.

'Oh, so there's someone else.'

She's everything you wanted, but you just can't deal with all her lovers.

"You're the one." She said.

She always tells you that. You wanted to believe her but her actions always speak louder.

She came home later than usual today and there was an unfamiliar perfume coming from her hair. But you decided not to say anything about it.

You went back to whatever you were doing while she went to take a shower.

A while later, she came back hugging you from behind, kissing your cheeks.

"Tough day?"

"Mhm." She nodded while she pressed kisses on your neck.

She's only giving you love when she's down and needs another.

You wanted to enjoy it but your head says otherwise.

'I've gotta get away and let you go, I've gotta get over.'

"But I love you so." You said out loud.

"Hm?" She stopped and looked at you.

"I love you so." You turned to her.

"I love you so." She smiled like nothing was wrong and kissed you on the lips.

[bewarexy]

추른

[sunflowersoonyoung]

a devil and an angel | umji & sowon

w.c ↠ 2.3k

pairing ↠ umji x fem!reader x sowon

genre/s ↠ fluff, smut, office au!

description ↠ After a tireless day working as an intern at a publishing company, you enjoy spending the evening venting to fellow intern Yewon. The budding relationship between you and her is inadvertently thwarted by sexy, somewhat mean Vice President Kim Sojung.

warning/s ↠ suggestive themes, alcohol

a/n ↠ there may be more parts to this! I feel like I could write more for this AU. I love the contrast between the two relationships! Plus Sowon is so hot in this universe. Also, sorry that it took me so long to write it 😭 I hope it was worth the wait!

-

Collapsing into a chair at an empty table, it was quite relieving to be off of your feet. Although it was only lunchtime, the day had seemed to have stretched on forever. You absently stirred your rice with chopsticks and scanned the dining room for Yewon. She was running late.

As fellow interns from separate Universities, you had developed a close friendship through sharing your daily struggles with one another. As interns, you received low pay, which led to minor exploitations from management - who worked you extra hard and held you to high standards. It was draining, but you were learning far more than University could teach you, so you persevered.

Yewon had a considerably tougher time trying to fit into the workplace. She could be clumsy, but she worked hard to make up for it. Additionally, she had the sweetest personality you had ever encountered. Hence, you had made the effort to befriend her.

Abruptly someone dropped into the seat beside you, their lunch tray clattering on the table surface. Yewon looked exhausted, her eyes swollen with dried tears. She offered you a meek smile.

“You’ve been crying,” you comment, and her smile fades. With her interest fixed on her food, she begins to recount her experience from just a half-hour earlier with a distraught expression.

“I was assigned a printing job, and messed it up,” Yewon sighed, “when I expected one of the managers to come over and scold me, tell me to restart like always, the Vice President Sojung came up to me instead. I-I’ve heard things about her, but nothing compares to seeing her in person.”

You also had heard a smattering of opinions about the Vice President, Kim Sojung. She was a devil in the form of breathtaking beauty, lacking tolerance for mischief and foolery no matter the perpetrator. Ruling with an iron fist, it did not take much to get on her bad side and end up without a job. She explained why Yewon was practically trembling.

“She didn’t say much. Just scoffed and said she would never accept s-someone like me into the company,” Yewon’s lip quivered, blinking back tears. You wrapped an arm around her shoulders, drawing her figure against yours in an attempt to soothe her.

Yewon was almost like a younger sister to you - albeit with a dash of romantic tension. To hear of this injustice overwhelmed you with hot fury.

“Don’t listen to her,” you murmured against her hair, “she doesn’t know anything about you, not like I do. You’re the hardest worker I know, Yewonnie.” She draws in a shaky breath, peering up at you from her position buried in your shoulder. Her smile is warm and genuine, making your heart flutter.

“Thanks, (F/n). That means a lot.”

You decided to distract her by recounting your morning, gradually shifting away from the gloomy mood whilst finishing lunch. She seemed grateful for the distraction because despite your assurance she was still shaken.

Eventually, with empty lunch trays in hand, you both stood intending to go separate ways. Yewon cleared her throat and turned back to face you.

“Hey, (F/n)?” She called, her voice small, stopping you in your tracks, “um, do you want to meet up after work and get dinner together?”

You didn’t even try to restrain the wide grin that immediately plastered over your face.

“Yeah, let’s do that.”

-

You waited in the frigid evening air by the front of the company building, hands pressed into the pockets of your slacks.

All you knew was that Yewon had a few extra tasks to complete and was going to finish late, knowledge you had gained only thanks to the handful of texts she had managed to send. You didn’t mind waiting for her, anyway.

As you kept your interest upon the passing cars, a woman passed by with perhaps the longest legs you had ever seen. She looked incredible from behind in a tight pencil skirt, hips swaying elegantly with each lengthy step. Stopping at the curb, she fished her phone out of her handbag and thumbed a swift text. As she stood waiting, she turned and caught a glimpse of you.

The realisation washed over you. This gorgeous woman, with glossy raven hair running down her back like a waterfall and sharp fox-like eyes full of intelligence, was none other than Kim Sojung. The descriptions you had overheard matched her perfectly. Your mouth went dry as her gaze fell across you.

“You’re that intern, (F/n),” she mused, pressing a thoughtful finger to her lips, “I’ve heard good things about you.”

Anger boiled up in your throat, and before you could suppress it, a snarky comment slipped free, “it’s a shame you couldn’t be this nice to Yewon. Otherwise, I might’ve believed that you were a kind person.”

Immediately regretting your words, you felt a cold chill trickle down your spine when her initial surprise melted into an amused smirk.

“Oh?” She chuckles lightly and your cheeks flush, “you’re cute.” A sleek black car pulls up to the curb and she opens the door, winking at you before she departed. You’re left stunned to the ground, still untangling the mess of events that just occurred.

Regardless of the animosity that you harboured for her, you had to admit that she was practically oozing sex appeal.

“(F/n)?” A warm hand grasped your shoulder, shocking you from your daze, “Is everything okay?” Yewon was wearing an expression full of concern as she peered back at you. You swiftly grounded yourself and swallowed your surprise.

“S-Sure, sorry. Let’s go.”

-

The night sky was a deep shade of navy, city smog shutting out the stars.

Yewon stumbled, her cheeks pink in the dim light of the streetlamps. With her arm looped around yours, she clung to you, using you as her support. It seemed alcohol did not mingle well with Yewon, even if you’d only had six glasses of beer between you both. You felt glaringly sober compared to her.

“C’mon, we’re almost at your house,” you laughed as she stopped to reach for a tree branch hanging over the sidewalk, her interest captured by the blossoming flowers. You caught one for her and pressed it behind her ear, earning a pleased giggle from her.

Yewon still lived with her family in a spacious house blocked off with a black iron gate, automated with fingerprint ID.

Expecting to simply bid her goodnight and make your way home, it caught you by surprise when she wrapped her arms around your waist. Her hair tickled your nose, clouding your nose with her sweet scent. She hummed contentedly, and it seemed you were not going anywhere for a moment.

“Y-You’re … my favourite person, (F/n),” she stammered, her voice muffled against your shoulder, “I really, really like you.” Tightening your grip on her, you savoured the confession with each passing second - as if taking a breath would shatter the moment.

She withdrew, maintaining eye contact despite the lack of lighting. You could faintly make out her round cheeks and long lashes but still couldn’t measure her expression. Fiddling with her purse, she eventually retrieved a twenty-thousand won bill and placed it in your palm. You gasped and tried to return it but she hushed you softly.

“Use that and get a Taxi back instead of walking,” Yewon spoke calmly, in a manner that convinced you of her growing sobriety.

Leaning forward on the tips of her toes, she pressed a chaste kiss to your lips. It left you dazzled, observing breathlessly as she turned on her heel and retreated home through the tall gates.

-

With both of you standing idly by the printer waiting for a copy job to finish, an awkward silence simmered between you. Though you had hoped the alcohol would erase Yewon’s memories from last evening so that she could continue being her sweet, bubbly self and you could pretend that nothing had ever happened, it seemed luck was not on your side.

You accidentally met eyes and Yewon blushed various shades of pink, turning her head away as quickly as she could. She was too innocent. It made you flutter, excited to initiate with her a simple relationship filled with sugary actions. Holding her hand, feeling her head lull against your shoulder as you watch a movie together; little things like that.

“Hey, (F/n), right?” The tension was broken by a passerby manager, someone in charge of the editing team if you remembered correctly, who slowed to stop in front of you.

“We’re having a meeting in room four, can you bring us coffee? There’s six of us. Yewon can finish whatever you’re doing here.” Without even waiting for a response, he was gone, leaving you with a half-explained task. You were not even sure where room four was.

Coffee was not something you were unused to making, however. Usually, when staff members were tied up, it was you who brought them their hot beverages.

After filling six cups, setting them on trays and asking someone where room four was located, you made your way to the meeting room; thankful that the door was already open. You did not expect to collide with someone, the force causing you to lose grip of the tray in your hands. Coffee practically exploded over you and the stranger, hot liquid turning cold as it seeped through your white button-up.

Sojung stared you down, her thin blouse soaked. She looked less than amused; she was fuming, actually. Her jaw squared as she tried to steady her furious breathing.

“I-I’m sorry,” you manage to stutter out, aware of the attention you had drawn from the others in the room. Sojung seems unfazed by your apology and all of a sudden you wished painfully that you could take this hefty mistake back. As much as you hated her, she could end your short career at this company with a single signature.

She took your wrist with an iron grasp and began to drag you down the corridor. This is it, you thought woefully.

Sojung yanked you into her office and slammed the door shut behind you. You stood with your eyes glued to the floor, too afraid to look up and see her enraged visage.

“You messed up big time, young lady,” she scolded, her back turned to you. There was a flurry of movement, the sound of fabric rustling. When you finally looked up at her you were staring at the crease in her back, the clasp in her ivory bra. You almost choked on your spit, but Sojung seemed mostly unbothered, casually hanging her soiled blouse over the back of her chair and stalking towards you.

You gasped as she pressed a card into your hand, realising that it was her personal bank card.

“You’ll go down the street, and you’ll buy me a new shirt. The director is coming to that meeting, and I won’t be embarrassing myself in front of her by showing up in a coffee-stained blouse.”

She stood dangerously close, and it took all of the restraint you possessed not to shift your gaze from her face down to her wispy figure. You gulped heavily, feeling your skin absorb all of the heat in the room.

A slow smirk paints her lips as she observes the effect she has on you. Sojung advances on you, her steps gradual but taunting. Each click of her heels on the smooth flooring marked your demise.

Pressing your back against the door to keep your distance, Sojung placed one finger beneath your chin and tilted your head up towards her. Her bank card slips out of your hand.

“You’re naughty. Aren’t you lucky I like you?”

Her lips grazed yours slightly, ghosting over yours as if to tease you. The contact shot tingles all over your body. Cocking her head, she kissed you roughly.

Sojung wasted no time, possibly because her meeting was looming and she needed that change of clothes pronto. Her tongue pushed against yours, her saliva sweet as it mingled with your own, gripping your wrist and massaging your palm against her breast.

She guided you back to her desk, unbothered by the mess of paperwork that you sat on. You could feel the papers crinkle beneath your backside. Sojung’s assault shifted to your neck, forcing your attention back to her.

Sharp nails buried into your bare thighs as she parted your legs, sliding down your underpants from beneath your skirt. She harshly tested her thumb against your clit, furrowing her brow when you yelped in pleasure, your hips instinctively seeking out her touch by bucking back against her.

“You better keep quiet love,” she hummed, “else everyone will know what we’re up to in here.”

Heat throbbed painfully between your legs when she ducked down, breath clouding against your slick vagina. It took every ounce of strength in your body to swallow the deep moan that threatened to emerge as her tongue tasted you for the first time.

Your hand flies to your mouth, the only way for you to hold yourself back because now she was eating you out with full intensity. It seemed as if Sojung couldn’t care less how difficult it was for you to keep quiet.

One finger slid inside of you and you arched your spine in response, practically throwing yourself back against the desk. Sojung’s grip on your thigh was deliciously painful.

“Fucking come,” she growled, and the command practically makes you come on the spot. You muffle your cries with the palm of your hand, legs trembling as she keeps licking. The overstimulation made you see stars.

You’re almost sobbing, ears ringing and drowning out the sound of her low chuckle.

“I’ll need that shirt now, sweetheart. Get yourself something nice to wear while you’re at it. And don’t worry about the price.”

[streetlight11]

We Were Wrong

Summary: What one favour was thought to be harmless with no growing feelings involved, turns out to take a whole new turn during the process

Theme: college au, childhood frenemies to lovers

Genre: angst (not really), slowburn, romance, slightly suggestive, fluff

Warnings: mild language, light mentions of sexual activities

Pairing: Seo Changbin x Fem!Reader

WC: 10.1K

a/n: Hello! I'm back... Though I won't be posting weekly anymore, I will be going back to posting my works as often as I can! Here's a cute little fic with our dwaekki <3 Enjoy :)

It was a bright Tuesday afternoon. You were having lunch with your friends at the cafeteria where Sojung was just complaining to you girls about her horrible blind date last weekend. “Can you believe he didn’t know how to eat me out right? I had to guide him and teach him how to do it, it’s horrendous!” You stifled a laugh as Lisa and Eunbi didn’t bother to hide their laughter. “He needs to get lessons from Changbin. That guy is a fucking pro.” Sojung continued, to which you immediately scowled upon hearing that name.

Changbin or as you’re more familiar with, Seo Changbin, is actually your childhood neighbour and also enemy. You grew up hating that boy’s guts. He was a loudmouth in preschool that just annoys the shit out of you. He can be very obnoxious to the point where you can’t stand his presence. It only worsens when you go to high school. It’s like he was your shadow that couldn’t seem to leave you in peace.

“Why is everyone saying that? He’s such a jerk who thinks he’s so good at everything.” You scoffed while stabbing the chicken meat in your plate, only for Lisa to smirk.

“That’s because he is good at everything, especially eating a girl out.”

“Disgusting.” You said as you took a rough bite of the chicken. Just then as if on cue, Eunbi’s eyes traveled past your head and soon smirked before announcing his arrival.

“Speaking of which, here comes the prince charmings of Hankuk U.” She said, nodding her head at where she was staring. Curiously, you turned your head only to find that everyone else had done the same. The girls in every table began to whisper and squeak when the guys glanced their way and gave them flirty gestures. 

The reason why they’re popular is because of two reasons. The 8 of them were a part of the school’s soccer team and they were famously known for their frequent yet amazing one night stands. People claimed that they were heavenly in bed and all of them were excellent when it comes to satisfying a girl’s needs. Almost every girl on campus has definitely experienced it with at least one of them once. The reason why I said almost every girl is because you’re probably the only one who hasn’t gone there.

Not that you plan to any time soon anyway. You would rather stay away from them, especially your childhood enemy. For some reason, your gaze was fixed on Changbin as you watched him strut down the cafeteria with his hands tucked into his pants pockets.

He was wearing a black ripped jeans, a light grey long sleeved shirt which wraps snugly around his thick arms like a hug, along with a pair of black combat boots. His hair was dyed black with a few strands of green highlights. You also noticed he has an undercut that peeks under the styled up bangs to show part of his forehead while his hair flops down his face with a volume. 

Would you say he grew up well? Sure.

Does this mean you don’t hate him anymore? Fuck no.

Would you put your hatred aside to see if what everyone said about him was true? Of course not.

Right when you were about to turn away, Changbin’s eyes flickered over to your table, that’s when his gaze met yours. He walked past your table without breaking eye contact even after he was a few feet ahead. He had his head slightly turned before he finally breaks away and focuses his attention to what’s in front of him. 

A few minutes later, you were just listening to Eunbi rant about her controlling parents when your curious eyes began to wander around the room. You weren’t really looking for anyone in particular despite looking like you were. It wasn’t until you spotted Changbin a few tables diagonally down from yours with his back towards you but his head was turned around and his eyes were on you.

How long has he been staring at you?

You shifted in your seat as you diverted your eyes to your plate briefly before looking back at Eunbi who was seated opposite you. 

A few seconds later, your eyes flicked back past her head only to be met with the back of his head. A small sigh of relief left your lips before focusing back on your friends. After you were done with your lunch, you girls got up to leave. You forced yourself not to look over at his table despite feeling a pair of eyes burning a hole into your skull. You were halfway down the hall when a heavy arm slings over your shoulder. 

“Hey princess, mind if you walk with me for a bit?” Changbin asked you directly, not sparing a glance to your friends.

“Why?” You frowned, glaring at him in the process.

“For old time sake, how about that?”

“Mmm, no thanks.” You said as you pushed his arm down your shoulder. Changbin lets out a soft chuckle before he comes back to your side only this time, holding his gaze with your friends.

“I’m sure you ladies wouldn’t mind if I steal her for a bit, hmm?”

You expected them to reject him and say you needed to head to class soon. You weren’t ready to hear them easily let him steal you away as if class wasn’t gonna start in 10 minutes time. With that being said, Changbin gives them a flirtatious wink before he slides an arm around your waist and begins to tug you down the opposite hallway. After you were quite far from your friends, that’s when you pushed him away and frowned at him.

“What the hell are you doing?” You asked in annoyance, only for him to smirk at you calmly.

“Relax, you fool. I just wanted to get some time alone with you.”

“Why?”

“Because I missed you.” He sounded very genuine but you knew this was just an act.

“Bullshit. You have no reason to miss me when you literally fuck different girls every night.” You said as you were about to walk away when he grabbed your wrist to stop you.

“Okay fine, that’s not why I pulled you aside for…” Changbin sighed as you stared at him quietly with a prominent frown on your face. You waited for him to continue, feeling him let go of your wrist while he did so. “I actually need you to do me a favour.” You raised your eyebrow at him tauntingly.

“I’m listening…”

Changbin scoffed but then continued.

“I need you to be my fake girlfriend for 2 months.”

“2 months?! What is this? The Bachelor?” You asked in shock after hearing his proposal.

“Look! I know it sounds like a lot but I just need you to be my fake girlfriend for 2 months and then we can go back to hating each other.”

“Why must it be 2 months? What shit did you get into this time?” You asked slightly impatiently this time, feeling like your brain might combust. 

“My mom wants to matchmake me with this rich girl but I don’t like her. She made a deal with me that if I can’t find a girlfriend in two months, she’s going to matchmake me with that rich girl.”

“And so you’re asking the girl who is the least of your favourites, to pretend to be your girlfriend? The irony.” You scoffed, looking away from him for a brief second before he clicked his tongue in annoyance.

“Can you please just help me out over here?”

“Why me? Why not ask the girls you’ve slept with. I’m sure they’ll do an excellent job in being your girlfriend for two long months.”

“They’re nothing but strangers to me. I know nothing about them. Besides, the girl my mom wants to matchmake me with is also the same girl who spilled that chocolate milk onto your skirt in high school.”

“Kang Leena?!”

“Bingo. So are you gonna help me or not?”

“That depends. What do I get out of this?”

Changbin seemed to think hard for a few seconds before he spoke up a suggestion that you couldn’t seem to avoid, “After all of this ends, I promise to leave you alone for good.”

“Sounds about right.” You said, making him roll his eyes at you despite his lips tugging up into a smile.

Looks like you would be starting this operation in a week’s time. 

Changbin and you exchanged contacts so that you can communicate with each other on days where the other is busy with personal stuff. That night, you were just watching a tv series on netflix in your living room when your phone dinged a few times with a message. You reached over to take your phone off the table only to find three messages from Changbin.

Changbin: let’s set down some rules for this fake relationship

Changbin: you list out 5 do’s

Changbin: I’ll list out 5 don’ts

You: sure captain 🙄

Changbin: Co-Captain actually 😉

You: whatever

Changbin: hurry up and give me 5 do’s 

You: can you give me a minute?! Jeez…

You: okay, 5 do’s; Go on dates every week so we’ll get comfortable with each other. Hold hands or hug in public, be it in school or outside. Be nice to each other for the sake of this fake relationship. Be comfortable doing all these things mentioned with the other so that your parents will believe our act. And lastly, try not to kill each other during these 2 months

Changbin: go ahead and write a whole essay will you

You: shut up before i slap on some super glue to your lips

Changbin: you can’t even get me if you tried

You: try me

Changbin: 😒

Changbin: ANYWHO

Changbin: 5 don’ts; NO hooking up with outsiders during these 2 months. NO texting or calling for at least half of the week. NO discussing this fake relationship agenda to either of our friends. NO dishonesty during these 2 months. And last but not least, NO kissing on the lips (anywhere on the face except lips)

You: i’m pretty sure that first no is solely meant for you

Changbin: please, you’re just being modest

Changbin: i’ve heard stories about you going on a few horrible dates 😏

You: how would you know? You don’t even have a civilized conversation with me

Changbin: i have my sources sweetheart 😘

You: God you’re annoying

Changbin: thank you, and i intend on being the most annoying fake boyfriend you’ve ever had

You: fuck off

Changbin: too late princess 😆

You: i hate you

You: when does this stupid thing start?

Changbin: should we start this weekend with our first date?

You: sure, i’m free for the weekend anyway

Changbin: of course you are… okay, I'll pick you up at 4?

You: yeah whatever

Changbin: please wear appropriately for the date, i don’t want to look like i’m bringing around a homeless mother of 3

You: says the one who looks like they only have child sized clothes on for their overly grown sized body

Changbin: are you saying i’m muscular? 😏

You: fuck no

Changbin: rude… but i’ll give you that

You: are we done? Cause i wanna go back to my movie

Changbin: what are you watching? Can i join? 😏

You: BYE

You locked your phone and soon tossed it to the side, letting out a soft scoff before you turned your attention back to your tv screen despite hearing a soft ding sound coming from your phone. A few minutes later, you checked your phone to see what it was, only to smile when you saw the text he sent you.

Changbin: haha. Thanks for agreeing to help me with this. I really appreciate it 😊

Maybe this won’t be a horrible 2 months after all.

Weekend was finally here, you remembered Changbin saying he’ll pick you up at 4. You had already given him your apartment address a few days ago so he didn’t text you the entire day. Not that you cared, your fake relationship deal wouldn’t officially start after the date anyway. Now the problem is, you were struggling with what to wear. He didn’t specify what you were doing today so it was a little difficult for you to decide on your outfit. So you chose to text him to clear your questions.

You: Seo Changbin

Changbin: yes, my love?

Your heart skipped a beat. Wait, what…

You: where are we going later?

Changbin: it’s a surprise 

You: 😒 is it skirt/dress friendly?

Changbin: it is but I think it’s best if you wore jeans

You: okay

Changbin: see you :)

A small part of you weren’t used to seeing this side of him but you didn’t mind it. If you were going to see his nicer side for 2 months straight, you’d be down for it. So with that being said, you managed to find an outfit for your ‘first date’. You opted to go for light washed denim skinny jeans, a white tank top, a lilac cardigan and your favourite pair of white sneakers. Your hair down in a center parting as it flows down in pretty beach waves. You wore your daily light makeup but nothing too extravagant since you weren’t that kind of girl.

After you were done, you stared at yourself in the mirror to give yourself one more look to make sure everything was okay. Besides, this was all fake anyway so surely he wouldn’t care if you didn’t look anywhere close to as pretty as the other girls he’s dated or hooked up with before.

You were just replying to the girls in your group chat when there was a knock at your front door. You left your bedroom to go greet who was at your doorstep. Without checking the peephole, you pulled your door open only to find Changbin standing there leaning against your door frame. He was wearing a black skinny jeans with a navy green button up sweater and a pair of white sneakers.

“Hey fake girlfriend, ready for our first date?” Changbin said, making you roll your eyes at him as you pushed him by the chest gently.

“Please don’t call me that. Another thing to add to our list of don’ts…”

“So can I call you baby?”

You gave him a look after locking your door before you started to walk down the corridor with him.

“No.”

“Why not?”

“Because… I don’t want you to.”

“Why?” He asked as he pressed the lift button and soon turned to you with a pout.

“Call me by my name, you imbecile.” 

“But I wanna call you baby.”

You found yourself groaning in annoyance softly before you spoke up to give in to him, “Fine, but not in school.”

“Okay!” Changbin grinned as he let out a soft giggle. 

A few minutes later, you were staring out his car window when you realized he was bringing you to the open ice rink. You panicked as you whipped your head towards him only to squeak, “You’re taking me to go ice skating?!”

“Yeah.”

“I can’t skate!”

“I can. So it’s fine.”

“That won’t help. You’ll probably just leave me struggling like a baby giraffe trying to walk.”

“Hey, I can be nice when I want to. You’ve just always seen my mean side all the time.” Changbin shrugged his shoulders, making you scoff. He soon pulled into the parking lot outside the ice skating rink. You both left the vehicle and began to make your way to the entrance. He walked beside you but never touched you. Upon arriving at the counter where there was a line of people waiting to rent their skating boots, you joined the queue with him beside you. 

The wait was quite fast as you managed to rent out your boots and made your way into the rink. After you’ve secured the shoelaces, you watched him stand from his seat, noticing how you were still seated down.

“Come on baby girl, we don’t have all day.” Changbin said as he grabbed your hand and tugged you up. Right off the bat, you almost lost your balance and you weren’t even on the ice yet.

Changbin catches your waist while you clinged onto his biceps. A soft whine left your lips, earning a loud cackle from him. Slapping his chest for revenge, Changbin hissed but that smile never left his face. “Come on Y/N, we have to start moving.”

“I’m scared I’ll fall down! I can’t even stand properly on a dry surface!”

“Just hold my hand, you’ll be fine.” Changbin said as he began to gently drag you towards the ice rink. Once he entered the rink on both feet, you were still at the edge of the gate, feeling envious of how he glided through the ice in perfect figure 8’s. Just then, he appears in front of you with both hands outstretched to you. He told you to hold onto him but you stubbornly shook your head. Changbin snarled at you, making you growl. 

“Do you trust me?” He asked.

“Not right now. No.”

“Y/N…”

“Fine!” You said as you went to grab his hands while he gently guided you forward, letting you step into the rink one leg at a time. Once you finally stepped into the rink, Changbin began to skate backwards while still holding your hands. You spent the first 30 minutes just trying to get your feet coordination right, scolding him every once in a while if he tries to be funny. You were just skating on your own when a sudden crash behind you made your heart stop while your feet skidded slightly to keep your balance. A scream left your lips as you then felt warm hands on your waist followed by a familiar voice in your ear.

“Look at you, skating well on your own.”

“In case you forgot, you were the one who left me alone.”

“But you still made it halfway around the rink, so you’re welcome.” Changbin smiled as he skated past your side to meet you face to face, only for you to narrow your eyes at him. All he did was laugh before he jokes around with you while skating backwards to make sure you didn’t fall.

After you were done with the one hour, you both left the rink to change back into your shoes. Changbin returns the boots to the counter before he rejoins you at the corner of the entrance. You were just scrolling through your instagram when you felt a pair of thick arms wrapping themselves around your waist. Changbin rests his chin on your shoulder only to hear him lightly giggle in your ear, “Where should we eat?” He asked, making you sigh. 

“I’m craving for sushi…” You said. Right after you say that, Changbin pulls away from you sharply to let out a loud excited yell that leaves people turning their heads to you. You spun around and shoved your palms onto his mouth with a disapproving frown on your face. 

“See, this is exactly why I don’t hang around with you. It’s because you’re so bloody loud!” You snickered at him, pushing his face back slightly before removing your hands from his mouth. Changbin’s face drops a little and you feel kinda bad. It looks like he was actually offended by your words. 

“Is that why you hate me?” His voice was so soft and gentle, you almost wanted to slap yourself for saying that to him.

“I…”

“It’s okay. I know I can be obnoxious most of the time. Even my friends say that.” He said as he began to walk towards the exit. You quickly joined him by his side, only to notice his shift in attitude. So with a gentle hand, you slipped your fingers into his right palm before you grabbed it. He stopped walking and turned around to you with a small frown on his face.

“I’m sorry… for what I said.”

“It’s okay. We should get going.” Changbin smiled but you could tell it wasn’t a genuine one. You let go of his hand and soon made your way back to his car.

It’s been an hour since you arrived at the sushi place. Both of you ate in partial silence, engaging in a few short conversations along the way but it wasn’t flowing. You felt bad ever since what happened at the skating rink earlier. Even though he told you it was fine, a small part of you felt guilty for treating him like that. After he paid for the food, he told you he would send you home and so you quietly nodded. 

He didn’t walk you to your door but you totally don’t blame him. Once you’ve said goodnight to him, you left his car quietly. Not even 5 seconds later, he was already pulling out of the side and driving off into the distance.

You’re officially a horrible person.

It’s been two weeks since your first date and things have been slightly changing between you and him in school. You were no longer on each other’s tails consistently. Although Changbin seemed to have forgiven you for what you said that day, it was quite obvious that your mutual hatred for each other was still there. It was a Friday late afternoon and you had a netball tournament that day. You had just finished your afternoon classes and were currently rushing over to the other side of campus where the indoor sports hall is located. 

You were running late due to your lecturer being a bitch and letting you off late even when you told her you had a tournament half an hour earlier. Upon arriving at the hall, you were quite surprised to see that the bleachers were almost full. You rushed over to where your teammates were, only to see Changbin seated amongst the crowd on the second row of bleachers.

His lips curved into a lopsided smile as you briefly looked away from him to join your friends. You put down your bag and took out your attire to change into. After you were done, you came back out of the changing room only to jump back when you saw a familiar figure leaning against the wall seemingly waiting for you.

“Why are you here? Is everything okay?” You asked softly in confusion, earning a shake of his head before he pushed himself off the wall.

“I just wanted to wish you good luck.” Changbin said.

You nodded subtly and was about to walk off but he gently grabbed your wrist to stop you.

“That’s it? No thank you kiss?”

“You’re so irritable.” You sighed as you leaned in to give him a kiss to his cheek softly and said, “Thanks for your good luck wish. See you at the bleachers.” You then jogged back out to prepare for the game, missing the way Changbin had a smile stuck to his face even after he joined his friends back at the bleachers. A few minutes passed, you were leading the scores by 5 points for this first game.

You tried your best to guide your teammates on where to go, earning a few points along the way. The first game went well as you won with a hefty 18-9 points.

It was currently break time so you took this time to hydrate yourself and do a few rounds of practice. You drowned yourself in water when Eunseo asked you if you wanted to do some practice throws with her. You were just practicing your straight toss with Eunseo when Changbin spoke up from the first row bleachers to step on your tail.

“Come on Y/N… Is that all the power you have?” His lips curled into a horrible smirk that leaves you huffing. You caught the ball from Eunseo only to call him out with your finger.

“Wanna see what I can do?”

Changbin pushed the tip of his tongue against his inner cheek before he stood up and walked over to stand beside Eunseo. He never even spared a glance to her nor did he flirt with her for he only had eyes for you. He gestured for you to throw it to him with his outstretched arms. With one strong pull, you threw the ball to him in a straight throw. The ball flew across at a powerful speed that made him stumble back a step with a loud huff leaving his lips, not to mention the loud thud when he caught the ball in his hands. 

You raised your eyebrow at him tauntingly, earning a light smirk from him, “Not that weak, huh Changbin?” You asked as he tossed the ball back to you but with less power. 

“Fine, guess I was wrong then.” Changbin said with a shrug of his shoulders, making you scoff. A few minutes later, the third game started and your rival team was quite a strong one. Except, they had a lot of foul plays. You were about to catch the ball that Yeri passed to you when your opponent forcefully crashed into your side as she elbowed you in the face.

You fell harshly, slamming your shoulder onto the ground, a sharp pain struck your left shoulder and also your nose as you began to feel something wet flow down your cupid’s bow. Because the game was still going, no one properly came to check on you except for Minju who was near you. You sat up while gripping onto your shoulder only to hear someone direct her words to you.

“Watch out captain. I’ll make sure you get benched after this.” It was the girl who pushed you. With that being said, you growled as you stood up, wiping your nose with the back of your hand, ready to pounce at the bitch but Minju stopped you.

“Y/N you can’t, you’ll get disqualified.” Minju said and despite knowing she was right, you were too pissed to keep that in mind.

So you simply told her to continue playing while you went off to the side to fix your shoulder and nose bleed. You clutched onto your shoulder while you stayed by the side to watch your teammates. Just when you saw Yeji catch the ball, you yelled at her saying you’re open. She passed the ball to you fast but what happened next was in a split second. Right when you had the ball make contact with your hands, a firm shove to your side made you lose the ball yet again.

This time, you collapsed on your knees while your hands flew out to stop you from hitting face first. This made your already injured shoulder to dislocate. A loud scream left your lips as the referee penalized the girl from the other team for causing an injury.

You laid on the ground back flat as your arm was in a weird position. Next thing you knew, Changbin came forward to join where Yeji, Minju, Sana and Eunseo were crowding around you.

“Go get me an ice pack.” Changbin ordered one of the girls as Yeji immediately got up. Changbin came to kneel behind your head where you were laying down, only for him to stare at your dislocated shoulder.

He gently felt the bump to see how he should pop it back. That’s when Yeji came back and soon Chan joined your side.

“Remember what our coach told us?” Chan asked.

“Yeah. I need to push it down but this is gonna fucking hurt.” Changbin said as he looked at you with a frown.

“Just do it already!”

“I’m kinda warning you, dumbass.” Changbin said nonchalantly as he soon told you to hold onto something. He grabbed the parts he needed to hold in order to pop your shoulder back into place. With one quick push, your shoulder popped back into its socket, earning another scream from you.

It was even more painful now then when it dislocated. Nevertheless, Yeji quickly pressed the ice pack onto your shoulder to soothe the stinging pain. Your breath got heavy as you closed your eyes in relief.

All the while, Changbin’s hands never really left your shoulder even while you heard him just telling your teammates on how to aid your shoulder. When you opened your eyes, Changbin had just finished instructing the girls as he glanced down at you. His eyes held the galaxy even when his face was upside down from your point of view.

“How are you feeling?” He asked.

“Better… Thanks.”

Changbin nodded as he soon got up but before he did, he slid his hand up your neck only to caress your cheek with his thumb subtly. You sighed, allowing your members to help you sit up. You managed to get out of the court to sit on the bench. Despite not being able to take part in the next games, your team ended up winning the tournament.

After the tournament ended, you were all just listening to your coach giving some advice and wise words while you noticed the crowd began to disperse. You sat on the bench with an ice pack pressed against your shoulder with the help of bandages wrapped around your shoulder and under arm. When you girls were finally dismissed, Yeji and Minju came to ask if you needed a ride home.

You hissed upon moving your shoulder slightly, feeling like it was about to break again but someone’s voice answered for you.

“I can take her home.” Changbin said, making you glance to the side and see him walking over with his hands tucked into his jeans.

Your friends knew about your mutual hatred for Changbin which is why they looked at you skeptically and asked if you were sure about letting him drive you home. When you gave them a nod, they simply told you to take care before they began to go separate ways with you. Meanwhile, Changbin helps you with your bag, asking you to not move your shoulder as much. 

Changbin joins you by your side, sliding an arm around your waist as you turn to him with a frown.

“You do realise I can walk just fine right?”

“I know but can’t I just hold you while we walk?” His question made you pause, staring at him softly before deciding on your answer.

“Y-Yeah… Sorry…”

Changbin chuckled lightly, continuing to walk by your side. Once you safely made it inside his vehicle, he jogged over to the driver seat and was soon on his way. The ride back to your apartment seemed faster than usual but you were actually glad he was here with you. He offered to walk you to your door so ultimately, you invited him in.

It didn’t escalate to anything serious, it was just him chilling with you for a bit and helping you out with some things before he headed home. 

Looks like things are going pretty well between you and him, you just hope it stays this way.

The next morning, you woke up to a stinging pain in your shoulder. You must’ve slept wrong during the night because it fucking hurts like shit. And the first thing that came to mind when you were in a shit ton of pain, was to call the one person that you could think of the minute you wake up. The call got answered after the second ring which made you barely wait.

“Hello?” His raspy morning voice immediately soothes your cries despite the stinging pain in your shoulder. 

“C-Changbin…”

“Y/N? What’s wrong? Are you okay?” There was a rustle in the background as his voice instantly grew alert.

“M-My shoulder… It hurts…” Your voice became a soft whine, knowing your cries were definitely heard by him. 

“Okay, wait there. I’ll be there in 5 minutes. Don’t move okay, I’ll be right there.”

Changbin ends the call without saying goodbye but you couldn’t care anyway. You were curled up on the bed, feeling like your muscles were tearing and your bones were cracking. You quietly screamed into your mattress, gripping tightly onto your shoulder as if it would do anything to soothe the pain. Just as you were crying and whining softly in your bed, the sound of heavy footsteps began to scurry down the hall and soon enough, your bedroom door burst open.

The next thing you know, Changbin hops onto your mattress to crawl over to the other side and soon pulls your upper body up gently. He handled your shoulder with the utmost care, making sure your head was buried in his chest while he began to softly massage your shoulder. You hissed and screamed a few times whenever the pain was unbearable.

“I know, I know baby, it’s painful but it’ll go away soon, I promise.” Changbin said as you cried further into his chest. Your free hand grips onto his bicep nearest to you, squeezing it every time the pain gets too much to handle.

After a few more minutes of massaging your shoulder, the pain indeed began to subside and the sting was no longer spine crawling. Your tears had stopped flowing, your breathing got much calmer now but you still had your hand resting around his bicep. It was so quiet in the room that the only thing you could hear was the sound of your stifles. Just then, Changbin uses his hand which you had hold of his bicep, only to gently tuck your hair behind your ear and move it down to caress your cheek with his thumb.

“Does it still hurt?” He asked, to which you shook your head. His other arm was resting around your back to support you but his hand was on your rib, holding you securely in his arm. You snuggled deeper into his chest, loving the warmth he gave you.

Changbin decided to scoot you back a little along with himself, until he felt his back leaning against your stack of pillows. He gently adjusts you so that you are now sitting comfortably between his legs. 

You were laying on your side so your injured shoulder was facing outwards while your head and other arm rested against his chest. Changbin had one arm around your waist while the other hand decided to play with your hair. He soon slides his hand down your arm, cupping your elbow gently while he looks down at you. From his point of view, he could only see a small section of your face but he saw your eyes still open. He smiled as he leaned down to place a very soft kiss to the top of your head. You felt this but you chose not to acknowledge it. 

Just then, his free hand reaches up to glide his finger along your cheek before it tucks beneath your chin and carefully tilts your head up. Once you were facing him, you locked eyes with him shyly and he could tell. 

Changbin’s smile never left his face even after he cups your cheek fully in his palm. He leans down to let his lips hover right above yours. You could already feel the feathery touch of his lips brushing against yours before your fake relationship rules suddenly flashed into your mind. With that being said, you turned your face further into his hand right on time, earning a small frown from him.

“W-We can’t… It’s the rule…” You whispered with a heavy heart yet he agreed with you.

“Right… Right, sorry…” He replied in defeat before he told you to sleep a while more. He ended up taking care of you, staying at home with you the entire day. 

Maybe this was just out of pure courtesy. Maybe this was just for the act. And maybe, just maybe, this wasn’t an act and that whatever he did was genuinely honest.

It’s already been 2 months since your first ‘date’ and nobody still has any clue about your secret. You had one more date left before his family gathering the following day. Both of you managed to control your urge to act on your feelings because you forced yourself to think about all the mean things he’s ever said or done to you but all that goes down the drain every time you hang out with him. It doesn’t help with your growing feelings for him either. 

It was a Saturday late evening. You and Changbin planned to go to the bowling alley for your last activity of the day since that was the only activity you haven’t done yet during your weeks of dates. You arrived at the bowling alley only to find that it wasn’t as packed as you thought it would be. 

He rented a lane for you along with your bowling shoes. Both of you made your way to the very end of the room where your lane is with you carrying the shoes and him carrying the bowling balls. He told you to start first so you did. When you accidentally threw your ball into the gutter, Changbin couldn’t help but laugh at your failure.

“Seriously? You’re a Netball captain and yet this is the best you can do for bowling?” He teased you, making you scoff.

“Oh yeah? We’ll see about that.” You said smugly before taking the bowling ball and soon aimed it properly. You threw it with as much power you could muster, watching it roll down the lane in a perfect line. The minute it hit every one of the bowling pins and formed a strike, you turned around to raise your eyebrow at him tauntingly.

“What were you saying?” You asked, only to see him smirk. He pokes his inner cheek with his tongue, feeling competitive all of a sudden.

“Very well. May the best person win.” 

Minutes ticked by without you realizing, the game was about to end with you leading ahead by just 6 points. Things were starting to get intense as you were on your final throw now. This last throw will determine who wins.

With very careful aim and a precise throw, you watched as the bowl swirls down the lane in an awful curve. You panicked as the ball began to swerve to the right near where the gutter was. However, right before it reaches the pins, the ball swirls back in only to hit every single one of the pins, earning a strike for you. Which means, you won the game. You squealed as you bounced around excitedly.

Upon turning around where you thought you would find him being all salty and sulking in the corner, Changbin walked up to you with his arms wide open so you threw yourself on him. You wrapped your arms around his neck, feeling his arms hug your waist perfectly to allow his hands to rest on either side of your ribcage. 

He spins you around before putting you back down. When you pulled away with a giggle, Changbin’s eyes naturally flew down to your lips as his smile only got wider. Your heart was stammering in his chest as you slid your hands forward to cup his neck. 

After what felt like forever, Changbin’s eyes flicked back up to meet yours before he nudged your nose with his, scrunching his nose cutely. 

“Shall we go?” He asked, to which you simply nodded at him. 

Both of you returned the items back to the vendor, making sure you left no belongings behind. You were just walking towards the lift lobby when Changbin’s fingers easily slipped down your inner forearms, down your wrist only to then lace his fingers with yours swiftly. You chuckled softly knowing he was probably loving this.

“How long did you wait for this?” You asked with a teasing smile on your face.

“Since our date today started.” 

You couldn’t help but giggle as you both entered the lift together. You stood side by side in the lift, allowing the quietness to surround you. Just then, you felt him squeeze your hand softly to gain your attention and it did. You glanced over to him, not surprised to find him already staring at you softly.

“Are you ready for tomorrow?” He asked as he leaned against the lift wall.

“I think I am but are you? Besides, you’re the main character tomorrow, not me.”

“As long as you’re with me, I think I’ll be fine.” His words were so reassuring, you found your heart melting a bit. Upon seeing your gaze drop, Changbin tucks a finger under your chin only to tilt your head up.

“Everything will be fine. I promise.” He said with a smile, making you nod softly to say you trust him. He slides his hand over to cup your jaw but the sweet moment got cut short when a group of rowdy teenage guys entered the lift at level 5. They filled almost the entire lift that you literally buried yourself in Changbin’s chest for comfort.

Changbin notices the way those guys were sneaking glances over to you and how some of them were openly checking you out. While he was busy glaring at them, you too noticed the attention you had on you, not to mention the whispers you heard from beside you.

“How did he land such a hot girlfriend like her? He’s literally so short.” 

You needed to do something. You need to remind them that you’re not interested in them. With that being said, you glanced back to Changbin, using your free hand to gently grab his chin between your thumb and index finger. You turned his head to make him look at you as you purposely pushed your body against him. Changbin panicked for a second when he felt you pressed against his front but he soon recovered and played along with you.

“Baby, can we go home? I want you so bad…”

“Mmm, be patient baby girl. Or do you want to be punished?”

“I want you to tie me up and make me scream your name.”

“Such a naughty girl for me, huh?” Changbin smirks as he begins to kiss your exposed neck, leaving soft whines out of your lips. 

Changbin’s free hand slides over your waist, only to grab hold one of your clothed ass cheeks. Your breath hitched in your throat as he brought that hand back up to rest on your lower back. The minute the lift doors opened, the guys left without a single glance spared to you and Changbin.

He pulls away from you, immediately apologizing for grabbing you inappropriately like that. As much as you knew that was wrong, somehow, you liked it.

You liked it very much.

Both of you soon abandoned whatever happened in that lift, making your way back to your apartment as he told you he would walk you to your door. Once you were standing right in front of it, you turned to him to say your goodbyes even though you were suddenly dreading it. He was still holding your hand, his thumb softly caressing the back of your hand comfortingly. 

“I um… I had a good time today. I hope you did too.” Changbin began first.

“I did. Thank you… for everything these past two months.” You said, despite your voice almost faltering near the end. Changbin noticed this but he chose not to embarrass you by acknowledging it. 

“I guess this is goodnight then? I’ll see you tomorrow at 3?”

“Mhm! Goodnight Bin…” You whispered as he frowned a little when he saw tears starting to pool in your eyes. Next thing he knew, you quickly leaned in to kiss him on the cheek and soon unlocked your door. The minute you were in the comforts of your house, you instantly slid down to the ground with your back against the door. You quietly cried, not wanting him to hear you.

The past two months have been a roller coaster ride. Neither of you had any expectations of getting anything out of this. He solely needed you to fake date him for a few weeks so that when he finally had to face his parents who wanted him to marry a rich girl, he would have a valid reason to stop the arranged marriage seemingly because you two were ‘in love’. Nobody told him that he would actually fall in love with the one girl, he would never in a million years guess. His heart was yearning for you and he would do anything to have you back.

But he made a deal with you. That if this goes exactly the way they planned, he will promise to leave her alone for good. No matter how hurt and broken he would be.

Today is the day where you would have to face his family. You had to show off your fake girlfriend attitude to show that you were in love with their son and that they cannot arrange a marriage for their son. The only problem was, you don’t feel like a fake girlfriend anymore. You don’t think you can pretend like you’re in love with their son simply because you already are in love with their son.

So while you gave yourself one last look in the mirror, you had to force your tears away so as to not ruin your makeup. You wore a beautiful baby blue dress that flows down to stop at your mid calves. This was something you’ve never worn before but for this special occasion, you wanted to put a good first impression on his family. 

Which is why when you heard the knock on your door, your heart started to race in your chest. You let out a shaky sigh before telling yourself you can do this. With your purse in one hand and your heels in the other, you left your bedroom only to head straight to the front door. 

You pulled the door open, ready to greet the person standing outside but instead, your voice got stuck in your throat. 

Changbin was looking as handsome as ever in that black smart pants with a white button up shirt tucked in, a black leather vest and a tie hanging loosely around his neck. His hair was parted near the center as his bangs flops down with a volume so that it doesn't rest flat on his forehead.

He scanned your outfit from head to toe just like you did before he commented first.

“I… Wow… You look… really pretty.” He said under his breath, making you do the same for him. You let out a giggle to lighten the mood as he allowed you to lock the door and soon walked down the corridor with his hand in yours. 

“Why didn’t you wear this for our dates? I don’t think I’ve seen you wear a dress in all the years we’ve known each other.”

“I only wear dresses on special occasions… Today is one of them.” You smiled, making him mimic your facial expression. 

The ride to his parent’s home took about 1 and a half hours but never once was it boring or awkward. Changbin made jokes, you talked about random topics, you had a mini carpool session, literally no awkward silence moments were present during the journey and for that, you were thankful. 

When you finally arrived at his old house, he parked the car and soon left the car with you. His house was fairly huge, knowing he comes from a wealthy background. Right before you reached the front door, Changbin felt you hold back so he turned to you. He reassured you and his words brought you a different kind of comfort, one that only he knows how to do.

Immediately, you were met with his parents, his older sister, and a couple you’ve never seen before. The only person you recognized besides Changbin’s family, was none other than Kang Leena herself. 

The look on her face clearly shows that she had no idea you would be here let alone with Changbin.

“Hi mom, dad, noona. I hope I’m not late. I actually wanted to introduce you all to my beautiful girlfriend, Y/N.” Changbin announced as his sister’s eyes grew wide as her frowning lips soon turned into a bright smile. 

“Y/N?! You’re dating my brother?! I’m so happy for you two!” His sister said, making you giggle. 

Just then, his mom’s face dropped but she greeted you nonetheless. The first few minutes at dinner seemed a little tense between Changbin, his mother and Leena but you were quick to save the dinner by making light conversations and jokes with them. After dinner, all of you gathered at the living area where you sat next to Changbin and Chaerin. You were just listening to Chaerin telling you about how much she missed you when Leena’s mother spoke up.

“I’m sorry to cut this short, but I think we should really get on with the purpose of why we’re here.” You turned to look at Changbin’s parents who seemed to be in a dilemma. 

“I’m sorry if we had wasted your time, but I will not be marrying your daughter.” Changbin said firmly as you simply stared at him while he spoke. 

“Excuse me? My daughter can give you anything you want. She is definitely way better than your girlfriend here. She probably can’t even do anything for you. We can give you and your family all the luxury you want. What do you say?”

“You want me to ditch my girlfriend for your wealth? I think you have the wrong guy. I don’t want your money.”

“What do you want then son? We can give you anything you need. You name it.” Leena’s father said. Just then, Changbin’s mother stood up to speak her ground firmly. 

“We thought our son wouldn’t find the right girl to settle down with… and that he would just keep messing around. Looks like I was wrong. In fact, he looks really happy with his life right now and if it’s because of this girl, then we’ll gladly welcome her.”

Leena scowled as she glared at you but you didn’t care.

“You’re making a big mistake Changbin.” 

She said, only for Changbin to smirk, tilting his head to the side softly before he raised his eyebrow tauntingly to ask, “Am I though?” She let out a groan of frustration before she stormed off, her parents following behind closely. After they left, Changbin’s parents apologized to you only for you to brush them off saying it wasn’t a big issue. You stayed behind for a few more minutes before Changbin offered to send you home. 

The ride home was a little more quiet compared to on your way there. However, one thing that’s prominent was how he reached over to lace his fingers with yours, keeping his hand on top of your lap. You told yourself not to fall asleep but you did anyway. 

When he finally arrived at your apartment building, you were already heavily knocked out so he carried you up to your unit level.

He unlocked your door for you, carrying you to your bedroom. After he had taken off your heels for you, he tucked you into bed, making sure not to change you out of your clothes simply to respect your privacy. His heart swelled when he felt you gently grip onto his hand as if not to let him go. Changbin’s heart broke into a million pieces. 

He already loves you. 

You won his heart.

And yet, the cruel reality just decides to end things for you two. So with one heavy heart, Changbin leans down to give you a very soft and chaste kiss to your lips. It almost felt like he was kissing nothing before he whispered his last words to you.

“I hope you know that I love you.” 

With that, he left.

The next morning, you woke up slightly drowsy probably from the lack of sleep you’ve been having recently due to your pending assignments. You groaned as you stretched your limbs out. You realized you were in your apartment which means he must’ve carried you all the way up here. This thought made you smile as you turned to get out of bed but the note sitting on your bedside table didn’t go unnoticed. So you took it and saw in curved letters written on the front page, was your name.

The contents of it however, did not do a good job to prepare you for what’s to come.

~Dear Y/N,

If you read this in the morning, you probably would’ve known that our ‘fake relationship’ agenda ends here. I can’t thank you enough for agreeing to help me out with this. I know it might’ve sounded ridiculous the first day I told you but hey, we made it. Haha. Remember our do’s and don’ts we listed out? I think we actually nailed it, don't you think? You have no idea how many times I wanted to break that last don’t.

Anywho, I’m pretty sure you remembered our deal before we started this whole thing… That if we managed to convince my parents to not go ahead with the arranged marriage for me and Leena, that I will leave you alone for good. Looks like your wish is coming true. I’m glad we met years ago. I’m glad you came into my life. And I’m glad that you chose to be my partner in crime for this.

I wish you a happy and peaceful life from today on. May you find the right one for you who would treat you with so much love because you deserve it. Truly.

Take care Y/N :) See you around~

At the end of this entire letter, you were now a crying mess. Your heart was shattered. You couldn't stop the tears from falling. You missed him. You wanted to tell him that you loved him. To tell him that he is everything you wanted. To tell him how much he changed your feelings for him during the last 2 months. You can’t let him leave just like this. 

No way.

So when you arrived in school, you desperately hoped to bump into him somewhere since you two didn’t share your classes together. Unfortunately, he was nowhere to be seen. Even his usual group of friends didn’t show up in the cafeteria or in any parts of the school. You were just walking to class with your eyes scanning the entire campus when you heard a group of girls in that table beside you talking about a soccer match this evening. With that being said, you turned to Sojung, Lisa and Eunbi only to ask, “Is the soccer tournament today?”

“Yes! It starts at 6pm later at our stadium! Are you coming?” Sojung asked, to which you nodded with a small smile.

If you couldn’t find him on campus, you were pretty sure you’d find him on the field.

Hours later, you were now seated in the middle row of the concrete bleachers of the school’s stadium. There were too many people in the crowd but they weren’t the ones you care about. The one you cared about was nowhere to be seen. The game was about to start and the crowd was beginning to cheer loudly for the school team players. You watched as they announced the opposing school team, earning cheers from the supporters for their campus.

A few seconds later, they announced your school team players and as expected, the crowd grew wild. You watched as the boys began to flood in pairs. They had their jerseys on which means you could see their names on it. Just when you thought he decided to go MIA, a familiar back came jogging in last as his name was seen in bold letters at the back of his shirt.

CHANGBIN ‘08’

You kept your eyes locked on him the entire time even on the field, witnessing how good of a striker he was. During their half time, you saw the way Changbin took a huge gulp of his water but soon his eyes began to scan the crowd as though searching for someone. Of course it would be impossible for him to spot you amongst the crowd when you literally look like a bunch of ants from his point of view.

After another round of matches, your school team came out as the winner for this tournament with a hefty score of 12-6.

You smiled upon seeing them do a group hug on the field. They were celebrating their victory and so was everyone else in the crowd. Just when you saw Changbin’s head turn to look directly in your view, you glanced down. Sojung noticed this so she asked, “Are you okay?”

“Y-Yeah…” You smiled as you tried so hard not to cry.

She knew something was wrong so she turned back to the field only to see Changbin’s gaze focused completely in your direction. He had a deep frown on his face and that’s when Sojung knew, there was something going on between the two of you.

With that being said, she suggests that you go to the washroom. The only washroom that was the nearest would be the ones at the ground level of the stadium and you had to walk towards them before entering the tunnel. Your mind was too fuzzy to think so you blankly agreed to it. You made your way down the steps, eyes naturally fleeing up but it was a mistake. The minute you did, that’s when you locked eyes with Changbin who was crossing the running tracks and was slowly getting nearer towards the bench.

Your breath hitched in your throat as you watched him look down to continue walking but his frown did not go unnoticed. You made it to ground level as the girls around you began to squeal and wave obnoxiously to get the boys’ attention. Meanwhile, Changbin had made it to the bench where he was just wiping his sweat with his small towel and taking a sip of his bottled water when his gaze landed on you.

He wanted nothing more but to go over there and hug you. All he could think of last night was you. But he already gave you that note. He can’t take his words back now. So with a frown, he turned around to let his back face you. Changbin already threw the ball to you. The ball was now in your court. What would you do? Many questions flooded your mind but it all came down to one answer.

Get him back.

With that in mind, you decided to make a detour. Instead of turning right to head into the tunnel, you continued walking straight. The whispers around you got louder and louder, that it didn’t seem to go unnoticed by the boys. Because the minute you were just a few metres behind Changbin, Hyunjin turned to see you coming so he quickly slapped Changbin’s thigh and nodded his head to you with a smile.

Changbin turned around to face you fully as he stared at you softly but you could tell he was broken inside.

“Y/N? What are you doing here?” He asked as you stopped a few inches away from him.

“Remember the last don’t?” He stayed quiet but he nodded, watching as you took a step closer.

“When was the first time you wanted to break that rule?”

“The morning after when you called me because you were in pain.”

“It’s over now, isn’t it? So go ahead.” You whispered as you were now standing just a fist length apart from him. Changbin naturally slides his hands around your waist while you rest your hands on his cheeks. His lips tug into a smile before he finally leans in and the minute your lips touched, you heard a mixture of responses from the crowd but the more prominent one was the cheers.

He hugged you against him while you cupped his soft cheeks in your hands. Changbin pulls away for a quick breath only to kiss you again deeper, feeling him lick your bottom lip. You smiled into his mouth, pulling away to let your noses touch and your lips hover over each other. You weren’t sure when to say it but he decided to say it first.

“I love you.”

You fluttered your eyes open only to see him already staring down at your swollen lips through his lashes. You smiled as you kissed him sweetly before pulling away again to finally say your three words.

“I love you too.”

[yoonjinkooked]

Anyone But The Groom | myg

❅ Summary: After a meet-cute that brings all the romcoms to shame, you realize that for once in your life, the stars have finally aligned and presented you a guy that might be able to make you believe in love at first sight. Only to find out that you’re in charge of planning his Christmas Eve Wedding.

❅ Title: Anyone But The Groom

❅ Pairing: Yoongi x female reader

❅ AU: Wedding Planner reader x Arranged Marriage groom Yoongi

❅ Genre: fluff, angst, smut, slow burn, will-they-won’t-they type of relationship

❅ Word Count: 36.5k (I AM SO SORRY)

❅ Warnings: cursing, alcohol, Yoongi not technically cheating on his fiancé but it’s a gray area (flirting), angst, TWO POV CHANGES IN THE FIC (Yoongi’s perspective), excplicit smut: edging (m receiving), overstimulation (f receiving), cumplay, cumeating, fingering, handjob, unprotected sex, creampie. Also, the character of Sojung is Sowon from Gfriend (her real name) so if you wanna imagine her like I did while writing, go ahead. 

❅ Movie Inspo: The Wedding Planner (2001)

The amazing banner is by @kookdiaries, of course.  This fic is a part of the Christmas in July collab, the  A Winter Wedding Season part, hosted by @kookdiaries, @kithtaehyung and @xiaokoo. 

A lot of people beta-ed this monster so if i forget to mention someone PLEASE shout at me to edit! Betas, Editors, Test Readers that I can’t thank enough: @joyfulhopelox, @xiaokoo, @sunshinekims, @bangtanhome @kithtaehyung & last but not least @dinamitae. Thank you, it meant the world to me. 

So there we go. My first ever collab. Hope you enjoy! Let me know what you think of the story and if it’s what you expected 🧡 Taglist is at the very bottom 🧡 (btw, this was a bitch to format and i am sorry if there are any mistakes!)

You are a fool for not taking the basket - a fool that had made that very same mistake countless times, a fool that should have known better. Yet here you are, juggling various boxes of Christmas lights, struggling to squeeze the phone between your shoulder and ear as you listen to Taehyung rant, sounding rather unhinged. 

“I’m dead serious, I will talk to Marianne and tell her that we need to stop using that caterer. This is like the fourth time he fucked me up to the point of nearly ruining the entire event!” he complains. You can relate, having been on the receiving end of catering trouble with the particular company he is yapping about and while you wanted to help or somehow console him, now is not the time. 

“Taehyung, I love you to bits and understand your frustrations but I am literally drowning in white wired neutral colored Christmas lights, trying to differentiate them from black wired neutral Christmas lights and pick one of each and my phone is about to slide from my shoulder, fall to the ground and break into a billion pieces - I can’t talk right now.” 

“You could have been a normal person and invested in wireless headphones, you know.” 

“I don’t want to pay for something that I’ll end up losing in a matter of days,” you point out in irritation, having already been through this conversation with him. More than once. 

“Or regular wired headphones even, that would give you-” 

“Taehyung, I can’t talk. Bye,” you interrupt him, still hearing him rant as you juggle the boxes in your hands attempting to free one and finally end the call. A minor struggle ensues and two boxes fall out of your hands but at least you can put your phone away. You need a moment, though. Deep breaths, just like your therapist had told you. In and out, eyes closed, ignoring the annoying and incredibly loud music that fills the store. 

Okay, you are focused and in control. Easy and simple: get what you need and leave as soon as possible. You just have to open each box and make sure that the lights in them are the ones described on the shelf - it wouldn’t be the first time that the store mistakenly labels them and causes you to want to break a thing or two. 

You hug the seven boxes close to your chest, having made sure you’ve picked every single neutral one you could find. Unfortunately, as you make your way to the cash register, little trinkets catch your attention - Christmas decor was in full swing late November and having a few Christmas themed events set up, your mind was in overdrive - the little snow angels can be used as gifts for the company Christmas dinner you were in charge of organizing - and the candy canes will be a good addition to pretty much every single event scheduled in December. When it comes to decorations, you have the attention span of a goldfish. 

And there it goes again - your attention, fleeting from your grasp. This time, it isn’t because of the displayed items - it is because of a man. And admittedly, it’s been a while since that has happened. Standing in front of the ornament section, dressed in a long black coat with a beanie covering his platinum hair, he looks as confused as a cat trying to catch a laser. You’re close enough to see his facial features clearly - he looks both cute and serious, as if he was making a life changing decision and not picking Christmas ornaments. He is attractive enough to make you stop in your tracks immediately. 

You stand there, like a complete idiot, still clutching your haul, as you try to decide if it’s even worth it. Approaching a random man in a store for no reason other than finding him attractive might be a sign that you should worry about the state of your love life, or lack thereof. On the other hand, why not? You can help out a guy in need and maybe flirt a bit, just to make sure you still ‘got it’. Reasons don’t matter anyway, not when you feel this sudden, unexplainable urge - to see him up close, to try and speak with him, help him - anything. It was as if a magnet was dragging you to him, despite all common sense. 

Maybe you have gone insane - it would come as a surprise to absolutely no one, given the abundance of stress caused by work - it’s always hectic but holiday season is pure and utter hell. Yes, you may very well completely off your rocker but you decide to walk towards him. He doesn’t register your presence, not until you are standing right next to him - he is startled, jumping in surprise but chuckling soon enough. 

“You scared me,” he shakes his head, giving you a quick once over. 

“Sorry,” you awkwardly respond, taking the opportunity to have a better look at him - the hair under the beanie is definitely dyed, making him look younger than he probably is - you wouldn’t give him 30, but he’s not too far off, you’d say. “You looked very… confused?” 

“By this?” He waves at the shelf in front of him and you nod. “I very much am, yes. Can you help? Do you work here?” he inquires. 

“With how much time I spend here, I might as well,” you mumble under your breath but he caught it, an inquisitive eyebrow catching your attention. “I’m an event planner, shops like these are practically my storage unit,” you shrug - a big mistake. Just as one of the boxes slid out of your grasp, he reaches out and catches the box before it hits the ground. 

“Nice reflexes,” you don’t hide that you’re impressed - he practically pulled the Edward apple move right in front of you. 

“I used to play sports back in the day,” he shrugs casually. “So, event planner, huh? I imagine you know a thing or two about buying presents then?” 

“A thing or two?” you snort at his suggestion. “I know entirely too much about it - and I’m offering my present buying expertise pro-bono - what are you looking for?” You can’t hold back a smile when he offers one to you, obviously amused by the exchange that you have initiated. It is still very random, but at least it turned into a friendly conversation. 

“I need two gifts,” he tells you, resuming the scanning of the shelf in front of him. “Either unisex or for a woman. And I have no idea what they need or want to get,” he tells you. 

“Hmmm,” you ponder out loud, already narrowing down the list of options that was forming in your mind. “On a scale from one to ten, how much does each of them mean to you? Because that will immediately limit our budget and thoughtfulness,” you joke. 

“Well, one is literally a one, because I don’t even know the person - it’s just a cordial gift that I have to get. And the other one,” he frowns, making you smile at the sight of him trying to put a number on how much the person means to him. “I’d say… a three?” 

“Ouch,” you laugh. “A one and a three. Okay, we’re keeping it fairly low budget then. Let me borrow that shopping basket of yours for these lights and I’ll find you the perfect gift,” you suggest, trying to ignore the giddiness that was taking over you at the sound of his laugh as he thrust his basket towards you, letting you drop all of the boxes into it and freeing your hands in the process. You make a move to take the basket from him, but he shakes his head - oh, he’s also a gentleman. So far, so good. 

“The least I can do is carry your load, especially if you save my ass,” he jokes. “Now, where do we start, Miss Event Planner?” 

“It’s Y/N,” you roll your eyes. “Pleasure to meet you, by the way,” you offer him a hand which he accepts immediately. God, his skin is soft! Why are you even noticing that? 

“Nice to meet you, Y/N. I’m Yoongi.” 

“Well, Yoongi, we’re obviously not looking for anything too expensive or personal,” you explain as you start walking, smiling as he follows you immediately. “If you don’t know someone or don’t particularly care for them, you want to go for something that can either be used, something functional and handy, or something so incredibly neutral that they can easily re-gift it if they don’t care for it.” 

“Is there a whole… branch of science dedicated to gift buying?” he laughs in bewilderment - you turn just in time to catch traces of a cute smile, before he manages to hide it. Why, you’re not sure. All you know is, he’s cute and you’re making him laugh, which is more than enough in your book. 

“If there is, I’ve earned a PhD,” you joke. “Seriously though, if you don’t know them, the less thought you put into it, the better. A kitchen tool is always a good idea - if they don’t need a fancy strainer for their pasta, they definitely know someone who needs it.” 

“Well, I don’t know one, but three definitely doesn’t do any cooking,” he informs you. 

“Hmmm,” once again, the mental gift list in your head is sized down. “What’s our budget?” 

“Ugh, anything,” he shrugs awkwardly. “I don’t want to be a cheap gift giver but I’m also not sure if I need to break the bank for it.”

“Candles!” you decide immediately, smiling as you notice the surprise on his face with the sudden exclamation. “You can never go wrong with candles. Decorative and practical, and if they don’t want it for some strange reason, they can give it to someone else easily. Also, the good ones aren’t too cheap so it’s right in the price range you’re aiming for.” 

“You… are really good at this,” he laughs. Someone being impressed by your talent in gift buying is a new one but you’d be lying if you said that his reaction didn’t flatter you. 

“We’re all good at something - candles are on the left,” you lead him through the store. “What are you good at? I take it, not gift buying?” 

“Absolutely not,” he laughs. “I’m in finance. Stupid, stressful, office job.” 

“It’s not stupid if you like it. Although, even if you do like it, it can still get stressful. Every career path has its ups and downs,” you shrug as you stop in front of the candle section, immediately hit by the smell of what you can only describe as Christmas. The cinnamon, apple, mulled wine and vanilla mixtures encompass the both of you and if you weren’t in the danger of fainting from the strength of it, you’d take a deep breath to take it all in. Christmas time is hectic but nothing beats the smell of it. 

“I imagine your job is like that,” he reaches for one of the candles, twisting it disinterestedly. “Everyone thinks it sounds fun, and on paper it does, but it’s one of those things that’s a lot harder than it looks like.” 

“It definitely is,” you confirm, glad that for once in your life, you have met someone who gets it. Everyone thinks that party and event planning is all fun and games - while sometimes it is, they obviously never had to handle a drunk bridal party, a ruined wedding cake, last minute caterer cancellation or a fire caused by fireworks after repeatedly telling the host to not fire them off inside. “It’s fun on most days though and I’m pretty good at it, so I don’t complain much. But we have more pressing issues to resolve - which scents do we pick? What do you think? Anything drawing your attention?” you ask, not wanting to push your choices on him. In your line of work, you guide people towards their decisions, help them pick and then make it a reality. You don’t make the decisions in their stead and you definitely won’t do it now. 

Not unless Yoongi specifically asks, that is. And given how lost he looks at the abundance of candles displayed before you, he probably will. 

“I want to play it safe so… vanilla?” it sounds more like a question than a statement - one that makes you wince - he frowns, reacting to your disappointment. “What? Why not?” 

“You’re not wrong, it is simple,” you let him know, reaching for a different vanilla candle, this one slightly smaller than the one in his hand. “Unfortunately, vanilla is a big hit or miss. I mean, all scents are, really. But I’ve met people who have quite visceral reactions to the smell of vanilla and can’t stand it. Maybe your 1 and 3 hate it, too.” 

“Okay, so no vanilla?” he asks, to which you can only shrug. “You’re more trouble than you are help, you know,” he jokingly comments in a whiny tone. 

“I’m just saying what I’ve learnt from experience,” you lift your hands in surrender, still clutching the vanilla candle. “Look, the safest bet would be something Christmas-y. They might still hate the scent, but it follows a theme that we’re going to be living with for the next couple of weeks. And if they hate it, they can make it a Christmas gift for someone.” 

“What does Christmas even smell like?” he frowns. “You’re lucky you’re in finance,” you roll your eyes, not missing the smile that appears on his face. “Christmas smells like… home. A warm hug. Gingerbread houses, candy canes and cinnamon. Family time and mulled wine for when you can’t stand family time anymore,” you describe it to the best of your ability, realizing that it might make you sound weird - it’s too late for that. “If I were you, I’d go for apple cinnamon or mulled wine. Or one of each.” 

“Apple cinnamon and mulled wine?” he asks. 

“Dude, if Mariah Carey is blasting through the speakers, buying Christmas themed gifts is the safest bet you can make,” you point out, no longer able to ignore the sound of her belting out high notes over the store’s speakers. Yoongi contemplates your words for a long moment, still looking over his options. You can’t hide a smile when he finally makes his selection - one apple cinnamon, one mulled wine. Placing them into his basket, he turns to you, tutting his head to the side. 

“Now, how in the world do I decide which one to give to whom?” 

“Nuh-huh,” you laugh, shaking your finger no. “That was pro bono. The rest of my services come with a price, I'm afraid.” 

“Would a cup of coffee be enough of a payment?” 

You are able to catch the meaning behind his tone - it’s not just a joke, it’s a proposition. You didn’t imagine that it could get as far as getting coffee with him but the suggestion is clear. And in your mind, you’d be a fool to refuse. 

“Hm. I can work with that,” you exchange smiles, with you growing increasingly amused by the subtle blush that colors his cheeks. Realizing he might be into you, you do your darn best not to skip as you follow him towards the cash registers. 

Two cups of coffee later, tears of laughter fill your eyes as you clutch to your stomach, bending over, attempting to keep your voice low and not attract the attention of other customers. Yoongi’s laughing, too - more amused by your reaction than by his story. 

“No wonder you’re hopeless with gift buying,” you wipe your eyes. “You must have used the remainder of this years’ luck to run into me today, of all people.” 

“I know, right? The only better option would be a personal gift shopper,” he jokes. 

“Uh, debatable,” you argue, instantly making him shake his head with laughter. “Remember, most of the events I plan have goodie bags. I could transfer careers to become a personal shopper in a blink of an eye.” 

“Would you want that, though?” he asks, turning the conversation towards a bit more serious, although still laid back topic. “Or is event planning something you always wanted to do?” he wonders. 

“It wasn’t my childhood dream, if that’s what you’re asking, but if I were to look back, I’m not sure if I even remember what my dream was,” you tell him honestly. ‘It happened by chance, just a product of knowing the right people and good organizational skills. The rest you learn as you go, I suppose. Trends change, people want different things. Understand, adapt and organize. It’s keeping me content at the moment but who knows what the future holds?” you emphasize your words with a shrug, consciously refusing to think about the promotion that has been mentioned by your boss, a few times in the past weeks. You’ll think about that once your next wedding is a success. 

“I wish I had that kind of… is spontaneity the right word?” he wonders to himself. “I’m more of a careful planner, with clear ideas where I want myself, my business and my life to go.” 

“Oh, I’m a control freak at work,” you laugh immediately. “I have to be, if I want to keep myself sane and my clients happy. But in life… I’m still at a place where I’m perfectly fine with going with the flow.” 

“That’s what I envy,” Yoongi points out, sighing wistfully as he leans back into his seat. “Tell me, does planning weddings make you want to make your own a seven day extravaganza festival or something?” 

“That depends entirely on the person,” you laugh, remembering how Taehyung has his own personal scrapbook of ideas that he keeps to himself alone, ideas he plans to use when his day comes. “I think it drove me in the opposite direction, honestly. At the ceremony and the wedding party, I’m on the sidelines, observing and ready to fix any possible issue. I like staying on the side. Once my time comes, if it comes, I’ll probably just elope.” 

“Funny,” he comments, offering you a smile. “It’s a bit… contradictory, isn’t it?” 

“Is it, though? I’ve seen it all, from drunken uncles making a scene on the dance floor to four-piece cakes falling apart in front of the bride’s eyes. I don’t want that shit for myself,” you chuckle, shaking your head as you feel your spine tingle at the very thought of that being something you experience on your wedding day. “I just want peace with my man, you know. We can find an excuse to party anytime - I want that day to be simple and meaningful. Although talking about it is absolutely useless, since I don’t intend to wed anytime soon.” 

“Oh, come on,” he laughs in disbelief and you giggle, shaking your head. “You can’t tell me that there isn’t a line of guys just waiting for you.” 

“Perhaps there is, but not for marriage,” you joke, laughing when he rolls his eyes at you. “I work entirely too much. The last man I spent time with that wasn’t a friend, colleague, client or a family member was this random dude I met while shopping for Christmas lights.” 

“Oh, is that so?” he laughs, pretending to be impressed. “How did that go?” 

“Well, I’m still not sure about that,” you play along. “He was funny and made me laugh a lot. Hopeless when it comes to buying presents,” he interrupts your jest to laugh. “But I’d say he’s cute enough to make up for it.” 

“Interesting,” he blushes again but doesn’t back down, deciding to follow your flirtatious direction. “That sounds… like something worth exploring.” 

“I’ll know if I end up with his phone number at the end of the day,” you shrug, reaching for your nearly empty cup of coffee, using it to hide the grin that took over your face. You have never been a smooth talker, especially not with someone you’ve just met, but the words were just flowing out of you and who are you to question it? Especially when they’re reciprocated and Yoongi makes sure that they are. 

The silence between you isn’t uncomfortable - it’s calm, contemplative, as if both of you have other things on your mind but can’t quite keep your eyes from each other. You can only guess what is happening in his head but yours is filled with thoughts how your stars must have aligned well today. The stress and pressure you were under this morning seemed to have paid off with this comfortable moment of calmness, with a man whom you barely know at all but are more than willing to try and uncover more. 

“And what if he suddenly has to cut things short?” Yoongi breaks the silence sheepishly. “He may or may not have a scheduled call with a potential client in a different time zone and would have to be home soon to get prepared for it?” 

You could tell that he feels awkward, that he doesn’t want to end your impromptu outing just yet, but you smile and wave him off. “I’d tell him I know what it’s like and that if he’s interested, we can continue it some other time.” 

“Okay, I can’t keep talking like we’re not talking about us, it’s making me nervous and confused,” he blurts out and you laugh at his cute awkwardness, noticing how he’s wiping his hands at his jeans - he must feel more nervous than he lets on. “I have to go but I would like to… keep in touch with you, if that’s okay.” 

“I’d love that,” you answer honestly. 

“I still have a bit of time, so… I can walk you home, I guess?” He offers a suggestion that warms your heart and makes it skip a beat instantly. 

“I drove here,” you explain regretfully, angry at yourself for not taking a chance and strolling to the shopping mall, now wishing you had more time to spend with Yoongi. “You could walk me to the garage, though?” 

“It’d be my honor,” he announces dramatically, making you giggle for the nth time today. 

 “Wait,” Tae interrupts you. “Did you kiss?” he demands. 

“No, we did not kiss,” you roll your eyes as you snuggle deeper into your comforter. After the day you’ve had, you’re dead tired and ready for sleep, despite having two cups of coffee in a row just hours earlier. Sleep was waiting for you with open arms but your best friend wanted details and everyone knows what the priority order is in situations like these. “He walked me to the car, we exchanged phone numbers and he just smiled and waved.” 

“He should have kissed you,” Tae comments, pausing to take a sip of whatever it is that he was drinking - red wine, probably. “If I was in his place, I would have kissed you.” 

“No,” you whine, shaking your head. “No, it was perfect the way it was. I wouldn’t have been against a kiss but it totally wasn’t necessary. We met like… two hours before that, we know the bare minimum about each other. If we continue texting, there might be plenty of chances for a kiss. Or two. Or three. Or-” 

“I get it,” he interrupts you, laughing. “I get it, you met a guy, fell in love at first sight and now you are a firm believer in true love again.” 

“Pfft, no,” you deny it immediately. “I believe in partnership and long lasting ones, too. Soulmates, true love and shit like that… I mean, you know the divorce rates of couples whose weddings we organize.” 

“And the amount of divorce parties we plan afterwards,” he mumbles in agreement. “You do like him though, don’t you?” 

“I do, as much as I can like someone I’ve just met,” you remind him. “I don’t know, I’ll send him a text and see where it goes. But I definitely had an amazing time with him. You’d like him, too. He has this dry sense of humour that would either bring you to tears or drive you up the wall,” you laugh, remembering Yoongi’s deadpan expression as he said the funniest one-liners you’ve heard in a while - and your best friend is Taehyung, so you hear plenty. 

“The way you describe him, he sounds more like the ‘drive me up the wall’ type,” he jokes and you silently agree, having a feeling that Yoongi and Taehyung might be a bit too different to function in harmony. “So, you will text him, right? You won’t let this one slip out of your hands like you did the last one?” 

“Ha!” you let out a humorless laugh. “The last one didn’t slip out of my hands, he dumped me. And yes, I will text him. Probably as soon as we’re done with this conversation.” 

“Good. Go text him and sleep well. Bye.” 

Your mouth opens and you double check, staring at your phone in disbelief - he really did end the call, just like that. You laugh at his antics, but decide to take a chance - just like you did earlier today, faced with a lost and confused Yoongi. 

Hi, it’s Y/N. Just wanted to let you know that I had fun today. It was very random but one of the best days I’ve had in a while. 

Hope the call went well. Don’t be a stranger. 

Clicking send before you could second guess yourself, you lock your phone, twirling it between your fingers as you let the jitters take over you - the ones that make you twitch in expectation, bite your bottom lip and your leg bounce as you wonder if you did the right thing and if it’ll lead anywhere good - or anywhere at all, for that matter. 

You put the phone on your bedside table, far enough to be out of your immediate reach, and turn off the lights, even going as far as to turn your back to it - for tonight, your phone no longer exists, not even if it lights up and buzzes. 

Despite your tiredness, you had a feeling that sleep won’t come easy tonight - not when you can’t shake Yoongi and his cute, blushy expression and black beanie out of your mind. 

You are running late, which is not something that happens often - thankfully, you’re enough of a control freak that you won’t actually be late for the start of your workday. No, you are simply late for being early. Delaying your arrival to the office even more, you stop to grab a coffee from your favorite street vendor, smiling as you tip him and smiling even brighter as you feel the distinct text message vibrations in your bag. 

It’s him, it has to be - it has been the whole weekend. Not non-stop, thankfully, because you can’t handle that amount of texting with someone you’re developing a liking for. It wasn’t non-stop but he replied to you on Saturday, texted you first on Sunday and the reason for the bags under your eyes is him, because you were texting until late last night. 

And you know, you just know, that it’s a good morning text from him. 

He is funny, smart and good looking - everything you want in a guy. And you just… ran into him in the most random of ways. And now, you can’t stop grinning like an idiot, shake him out of your mind or wonder if you should ask him on a proper, official date today. 

“You look so in love, it’s sickening,” are the words Taehyung chooses for his greeting as you join him in your shared office, barely seeing him from the floral arrangements that decorate his desks - he is drowning in flowers. 

“Good morning to you too, sunshine,” you mumble as you take a seat behind your desk, much better organized than his. “And for the record, I’m not in love. You can’t fall in love with someone you barely know.” 

“You do like him, though,” Taehyung points out. 

“That I do,” you agree easily, knowing that no matter what you do, you can't control the smile that threatens to take over your face completely. “But that’s a conversation we can save for our lunch break. Sojung will be here at 10AM and she’ll be joined by the groom this time, so I want to make sure that everything is ready and set for them to pick,” you point out, not wanting to get in a situation when Yoongi can distract you from your work obligations. 

“You say that like you haven’t dropped 10 custom made wedding moodboards in our shared drive over the weekend,” Taehyung comments and you look down, guilty - you do tend to work more than you are paid for, often spending weekends browsing for ideas and creating your own. “I have to say, I’m impressed at how you found that guy. If I approached a girl randomly in a store, I’d probably be taken away by security.” 

“Probably,” you agree with a chuckle. “Enough of that now - I’ll get the venue catalogue ready for them to browse and you get those flowers in order. Somehow,” you add, worriedly looking at the mess on his desk. You have faith in him though, he’s an event planner for a reason. His method might be more hectic than yours but the end results are equally brilliant, if not even better, if you’re being honest. 

“I hate doing arranged marriages,” he sighs, shuffling around one bouquet to the other side of his desk, trying to organize the space. His comment catches your attention and makes you frown instantly - what is he talking about?” 

“You’re talking about Sojung?” you ask in confusion, eyebrows raising instantly when he nods. “What makes you think it’s arranged? She never made a comment like that.” 

“Y/N, please,” Taehyung snickers. “You’ve been doing this for years, I figured you’d know better. The budget for the wedding is insane, we’ve been working with her for weeks and the groom is yet to make an appearance, she is from a ridiculously rich family with big businesses everywhere and did she ever even call him by name?” 

“Well when you say it like that…” you comment, suddenly realizing that everything is true - Sojung seems like a lovely girl, very polite and friendly, despite being the rich girl prototype. Not once did she refer to him by name - both you and Taehyung refer to him as ‘the groom’, but the puzzle pieces didn’t fit until now. “I mean, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s arranged, but yeah, it could be.” 

“I’m calling it, it’s arranged,” Taehyung shrugs, pushing a bouquet of pink peonies away from his mouse and keyboard. “But that’s good for us, if you think about it. Sure, true love is a lie and all that but he most likely won’t be an opinionated groom and we’ll just make Sojung’s dreams come true, just having to deal with her and her alone.” 

“True,” you agree, knowing how much easier it is when only one person is in charge of being the opinionated one. You cringe on the inside remembering the track record of marriages with weddings like that. “Now - work. We can gossip after we meet him.”

“Okay, Miss Pushy.”

You ignore his comment, used to the banter - it’s hard not to be, considering you’ve been working as a team for years now. Your best friend, your work partner and the one who got you to this job in the first place - if he wants to refer to you as Miss Pushy, he can. 

It takes you quite some time to organize the venue catalogue but it would have taken you a lot more if you had more than a few weeks notice - 24th of December is an incredibly popular date and the venues you’ve managed to tentatively book with the possibility of cancelling the reservation was low - good for you both your company and yourself have made connections, making last minute bookings doable, although not preferable. 

Winter events aren’t your favorite but when it comes to weddings, you definitely prefer them over spring and summer weddings. For one, it’s always inside, save for a possible bridal photoshoot in the snow. Spring weddings often end in sudden showers, mud and a whole lot of cursing. As for summer weddings, one word alone is enough to make you cringe - sand. 

Winter weddings are nice and cozy. Sojung was also a fairly easy client to work with, especially given her family name and status - so far, there have been no requests for swan ice sculptures, which was enough to make you happy. So long as her future husband isn’t a piece of work, this might just end up being one of the calmer weddings you’ve planned. 

It’s only when you’ve finished organizing the catalogue that you remembered the earlier text you’ve received. It was impossible not to grin when you saw the name that flashed on your screen. You were right - it was Yoongi. 

Good morning, Y/N. I hope you slept well - sorry for keeping you up so long last night - I feel bad but we never seem to run out of topics to talk about. 

I have loads of meetings today - the one with one & three, too. Hope your day doesn’t suck as mine will lol

Yup, you can feel it - the pain in your cheeks as you hide a smile, the swarm of butterflies filling your stomach - all tell-tale signs of your growing interest, of your slowly developing crush on him. You can deny it to Taehyung as much as you want to, but you can’t hide the truth from yourself. You like him, stupidly so.

Good morning! I enjoyed texting you last night - if you’re up for it, we can upgrade it to a phone call tonight? I had a lot of fun - you’re fun. I hope your day doesn’t suck at all. May your coffee be cold, meetings short and 1&3 happy with their candles! :)

This time, you hesitate for a second before sending. A part of you, a very vocal and demanding part of you, wants to ask him out - not for an upgrade to a phone call. No, a part of you wants him one on one, wants an opportunity to flirt the life out of him. The more boring, saner part of you forces you to wait - you did make the first move, you did put it all in place for him to invite you for that coffee to begin with, you even texted him first. You want him to be the one to make the next move. Maybe he will, maybe he won’t, but he surely doesn’t leave you waiting too long for a text. 

I’d love that! Can’t wait to talk to you. I’ll let you know how the gift giving goes - if your master plan comes true, I owe you at least another cup of coffee. Dinner, even?

Bingo. Bingo, confetti, fireworks and glitter - it worked. He did it, he made the next move - well, the next half-move, if you’re being specific. Good enough for you - more than enough! 

Definitely! Talk later, have a meeting soon! :)

You put your phone down, sure that the conversation is over now - but lo and behold, your phone buzzes again - and it’s him. 

Talk later :)

It’s the first time he used an emoji. He is absolutely not an emoji person. You consider yourself a good people reader and there is no way in hell that Yoongi is a type of person that uses emojis. You have proof to your claim too - he did not use a single one in all the texts that you’ve exchanged last night. Yes, of course, you’re not a fool - an emoji doesn’t mean much and you are absolutely not going to read too much into this but… he used one. 

“You are absolutely sickening,” you turn to face Taehyung, who has a shit-eatting grin plastered on his face. “You just can’t keep him out of your brain or your phone, can you?” 

“Shut up,” is all you say, locking the phone and returning the focus to the moodboards on the computer screen. 

“You’re a fucking goner,” he laughs at you. “I’m so going to enjoy watching this unfold.” 

You ignore him - it’s the only way you can survive him right now. Focusing on the tasks ahead, on your bullet journal and presentations, it becomes easy for you to push both Taehyung and Yoongi out of your mind. Sojung will be here soon and if you want to make her wedding happen the way she wants it to, you need to guide her to making some final decisions today. Or, at the very least, organize visitations to the temporarily reserved venues. The more you have prepared, the easier it’ll be for her to decide and you can just hope that the groom is a yes man who wants to make his future wife happy. 

Right on the clock, right at 10, a knock on your office door makes both Taehyung and you look up - Sana, the head secretary, peaks her head through the door and smiles. “Your 10 o’clock is here. Are you ready?” 

“Absolutely, bring her in,” Taehyung tells her as you both stand up and get ready to greet Sojung and her fiance - she walks in, dressed in a matching cream dress and coat, a bright smile gracing her gorgeous face - she smiles brightly, like she always does, 

“Taehyung, Y/N,” she greets you both with a quick kiss on the cheek, before taking a step back and smiling at you. “Y/N, you look beautiful today! All smiley and happy.” 

“She met a man,” Taehyung immediately blurts out, causing you to nudge him in the ribs - a bit too hard, but he deserves it. Your interaction makes Sojung laugh, but after several meetings with both of you, she has gotten used to it. 

“I can’t wait to hear all about it,” she giggles, taking a seat in one of the chairs placed on the other side of Taehyung’s desk. “Do tell.” 

“Oh no no,” you laugh as you drag your own office chair to Taehyung’s desk, knowing that you will have to be face to face with both her and her future hubby. Speaking of which… “We need to talk about your man first. Is he not going to be joining us today?” you ask, as politely as you could, unsure if it’s a sensitive subject or not. If Taehyung’s right and you are organizing a wedding for an arranged marriage, Sojung might not be comfortable with these questions - unfortunately for her, they still need to be asked. 

“Oh, he’s running late,” she waves her hand dismissively. “He called me to let me know that he’s stuck in traffic but he should be joining us soon enough. We can start without him, however. I’d hate to waste more of your time, I already feel bad enough about his late arrival.” 

“Nonsense, we’re yours for the next hour,” Taehyung offers her a kind smile as he takes his seat next to you. “But, there are a few things that we can show you, just to hear your opinion. If something is a hard pass for you, he’ll likely support it being off the table.”

“Absolutely,” she agrees. “He’s an opinionated but simple man, if I’m being honest. I don’t think he’ll hinder you two, or me, in any way.” 

Huh. Maybe it’s not arranged after all - she speaks nicely of him, smiling as she does so. You hope it’s not - Sojung really is a breath of fresh air and seems genuine - she deserves a man that wants to be with her with his entire being. 

“Okay then, let’s get started,” you clasp your hands together dramatically but still smiling. “I’ve gathered a few ideas over the weekend and I’m curious about your opinion.” 

Minutes pass as Taehyung and you take turns in showing her your findings and suggestions and her carefully scanning them, saying no to things instantly and agreeing to some as a possibility. Your initial instincts from the first few meetings with her were right - she wants it all to be elegant and organized but nothing too flashy. Taehyung was showing her a perfect little arrangement full of winter jasmine when another knock on the door interrupts you. Sana peaks in through the door again. “The groom is here.”

“Ah, finally, the man of the hour,” Taehyung laughs. “Let him in Sana, please,” he tells her as both he and Sojung stand up - you are quick to join them, leaning a bit to the side to prevent Sojung from blocking your view - your curiosity is at its highest peak, ready to finally be face to face with Sojung’s other half. 

“I apologize for being late,” you can hear him before you see him. “The traffic was horrible.”

For what feels like the longest moment ever, your entire world stops - everyone and everything stays still, time stops passing, the earth stops spinning. For a moment that feels like an eternity and then some, everything stops as you make eye contact with Sojung’s husband-to-be. 

Yoongi. 

The same Yoongi that was texting you an hour ago, the one who made you laugh until your stomach hurt, the one who you spent the whole of last night thinking about, as you exchanged messages about anything and everything, life changing and irrelevant. 

Just like everything around you, he freezes, too. You can see his eyes widen but before he can say anything, or react in any way, you are already on the move. 

“No trouble at all,” you force your most professional smile, the one you wear whenever you are dealing with bridezillas or even worse, their mothers. Stoic and charming as ever, you hold your head high and your back straight. “Please, join us.”

“Taehyung, Y/N, this is my fiance, Min Yoongi,” Sojung introduces him, and the very mention of his name makes your lip twitch. He still has his eyes glued to you, while you look away, in search of a way to let Taehyung know. Doing it in front of both Sojung and Yoongi is impossible and as you are seconds away from an angry meltdown, you need to let your partner know. 

While Taehyung shakes Yoongi's hand, you hook your arm under his free one, earning a look of confusion from your best friend. “Pleasure is ours, Yoongi. Taehyung and I need to bring the rest of the material from our main office so please, make yourself comfortable and Sojung can fill you in on some of her opinions.” 

“O-okay,” he awkwardly mumbles. Sojung is none the wiser, smiling at her husband-to-be and Taehyung doesn’t bother hiding the bewildered look on his face. However, he lets you drag him away out of the office - not to the main office, though. The door you push him through leads to a room you refer to as the storage room, which only makes his confusion grow. 

“Y/N, what the heck-”he starts as you close the door behind you. 

“It’s him,” you hiss, keeping your voice no louder than a whisper. Taehyung obviously doesn’t put two and two together - how could he, it is completely insane. “It’s him! The guy I met at the mall? The guy I’ve been texting all weekend?” At that, his eyes grow wider than you’ve ever seen them go before - his mouth drops and as seconds pass, he opens and closes it slowly, trying to think of words to say. 

As are you - what do you do now? You… Yoongi didn’t cheat on Sojung with you, other than texting, nothing happened, but that’s a betrayal on it’s own. What if they are not exclusive? You’ve seen weirder shit happen, even with upcoming newlyweds. And if you do say something, what if you lose a client? Both his and her family are loaded and this wedding can hold the promotion both you and Taehyung have been eyeing for a while. You thought that this was the last step for taking your partnership to the next level and becoming higher figures in the firm - your boss said as much. Can you ruin that by telling the bride that her future husband had an impromptu date with you and has been texting you since?!

“What the fuck are you going to do?” Taehyung finally finds the ability to speak - you are not so lucky, simply shaking your head in silent bewilderment, trying to comprehend the severity of a situation you were put in and not by your free will. He was just a guy - just a normal, cute guy with a cute beanie and a dry sense of humor. It was not supposed to be like this. 

“I.. I can’t say anything, can I?” you wonder out loud, still trying your very best to keep yourself as quiet as possible, not wanting Sojung and Yoongi to be able to hear you. “It was still… platonic, I guess. Yeah, he’s a shithead but he didn’t… cheat.” 

“Yet,” Taehyung adds angrily and he’s right - he is so right. If you weren’t the planner that greeted him today, who knows how far he would be willing to take your flirt. 

“Yes, yet,” you confirm in annoyance. “And now, I know and he knows that I know so it won’t be happening. Can we lose them as clients? Is that something you’re comfortable with? Just because he’s a shithead?” you ask. After all, it’s not your choice alone - the two of you have been teammates, equal partners for years. Every decision regarding work is made by both of you - dropping this opportunity on your behalf would be unfair and possibly harmful. 

“We can’t,” he sighs in agreement. Both of you know it, this is your golden ticket - a ticket to a promotion - less work, more pay, bigger events with more staff available. “Can you do it, though? Can you go through this without… strangling him with your own bare hands?” 

That is a very good question. You want to say yes - after all, you are a professional. No, you have never had to deal with something as bad, or as personal, as this situation, but you can put your job first when you must. It’s not like you had the time to actually develop feelings for him. Yes, you developed a strong liking but that’s it. You do not know him well and finding out that he is engaged to be married just proves it. Without a doubt, you are strong enough to plan this wedding and keep your emotions at bay. Whether or not you can keep your mouth shut is another thing. 

“I can,” you reassure both Taehyung and yourself, turning to taking deep breaths to calm yourself down - your pulse too, as it went into overdrive the second he stepped foot into your office. “I think I’m going to have to talk to him at some point. But until that point comes, I can ignore it just fine. And if that point comes, I will not make a scene, I will not ruin it.” 

Taehyung sighs, grabbing you by the shoulders - you are surprised but don’t move, letting him shake you gently as he gives you a serious look. “Promise me you won’t fuck the groom.”

“Of course not!” you snap, only to remember that you need to be quiet. “I’d never do that!” you hiss at him, insulted at the very thought of you going behind Sojung’s back like that. 

“Let me rephrase that,” Taehyung takes a deep breath, still keeping a firm grip on your shoulders. “Promise me that you will nip those emotions in the bud and keep your head clear. Promise me you won’t let your feelings, of hurt, anger, love, of whatever - get into your head. Keep them at bay and keep him at bay.” 

“I promise,” you tell him and you mean it. You would never do that and after what you’ve just experienced, growing closer to Yoongi is very literally the last thing that you want to do. “I will find a way to resolve this with him, I will keep my trap shut and plan the shit out of this wedding.” 

“And if you have to cry it out, don’t keep it in,” you roll your eyes at Tae’s order. “Y/N, I’m dead serious. This is anything but normal. If anything changes, if it becomes too much, you need to tell me and we need to sort it out. We can make it happen but if your head or heart isn’t clear, we’re fucked.” 

“I promise,” you repeat. “I will do this. I will do it well. And if I can’t, you’ll be the first to know.” 

“Good. Now take a deep breath and make up an excuse because they’re waiting for us.” 

You can feel Tae’s eyes on you as you look to the ground, taking a few deep breaths to calm yourself down and prepare yourself for facing him again. All things considered, you are incredibly lucky that you’ve faced the truth today and not somewhere down the line. It was only two cups of coffee and texting. Nothing more, nothing less. A random one night stand held more meaning that whatever it is that you thought you could make with Yoongi. 

He is your client. He is getting married. And you are one of the best event planners in the city. You will organize the best wedding ever and you won’t bat an eye. 

“Let’s do this.”

Fixing your sweater, you take a few deep breaths and pause with your hand on the doorknob - a moment, nothing more than a moment. As soon as it passes, you will smile and go about this meeting like you would with any other. 

“Sorry for the wait,” you sound chirpy, going above and beyond to not show Yoongi’s presence affecting you in any way. In fact, you don’t look at him at all, instead having eyes for your desk alone. “Turns out we didn’t find the invitation samples we’ve saved. I know Sojung had already selected a pattern but it was nothing more than another option,” you lie, knowing that you have to explain your empty hands. 

“It would probably confuse you even more,” Tae adds, taking his seat. As he got to the desk before you did, you had to turn to the chair that actually belongs to you - the one positioned directly in front of Yoongi. You were hoping to sneak your way into Tae’s chair but today really isn’t your lucky day. “Now, let me show you what we-” 

“Oh, hold on,” Sojung interrupts him, which forces you to make eye contact with her for the first time since you left the storage room. If she picked up on the change in energy, she isn’t showing it. “Yoongi was thoughtful enough to bring us little gifts but he wasn’t aware that we will be meeting with more than one planner,” she awkwardly looks towards him. You still keep your eyes glued to her, grabbing a hold of your favorite purple pencil, feeling the urge to do something, anything, anything at all to distract yourself, repeatedly clicking it on and off as you wait for the hardest hit of all. You already know what it is. You’d be stupid not to. 

“Yes, I haven’t realized that you work as a team,” Yoongi sounds awkward, way more awkward than he did back on Friday. 

“It’s easily fixable, though,” Sojung giggles, “Taehyung can simply take my present.” 

“No, I could never-”

“But it’s-” 

Yoongi and Taehyung speak over each other and all you can do is listen, avoid looking at him and mentally pray for your chair to swallow you whole and save you from this catastrophe. Just minutes ago, you thought that it couldn’t possibly get any worse. It can, it absolutely can, because you know you are getting a candle. 

“I insist,” Sojung continued, giving the decorative bag that was in her hand to Taehyung, reaching over the desk to do so. This was your signal that you can no longer ignore Yoongi - sure enough, he is doing the same thing Sojung is, leaning towards you with a burgundy red paper bag in his hand. 

Oh, how you wish you could refuse. With a tight lipped smile, you take the bag from him, careful to avoid your skin touching his. “Thank you,” your voice is not nearly as chirpy as it was before, but you are hiding the bitterness in it - at least you hope so. Opening the bag, you can officially no longer hide the bitterness, letting out a chuckle that might pass as amusing but in reality is incredibly ironic. 

I mean, apple cinnamon is basic. Simple. Mulled wine is more complicated, implying you might have given it more thought. Give the apple one to one and the wine one to three. 

Staring at you from the bottom of the bag is apple cinnamon - the very candle you had helped him select, the candle that ironically brought you two together for one afternoon and now is nothing more than a reminder of what you are to him - a zero. 

“Is everything okay?” Sojung sheepishly asks, obviously alerted by your chuckle. 

“Oh, no, no,” you are quick to fix the situation, smiling brightly at her with a smile she returns. Slowly, you make eye contact with Yoongi for the first time since he’d entered your office - your smile doesn’t falter, not even when you look him directly into his eyes - eyes that are swimming with mixture of panic, guilt and maybe even something more. “Apple cinnamon is my absolute favorite, you’ve nailed it. It’s a very thoughtful gift, thank you very much.” 

Your tone doesn’t have an ironic note to it but you know that he can understand the message - the lump he swallows is proof enough. He is probably scared shitless of you outing him in front of his wife to be, telling her that he flirted with you shamelessly while promised to her, naming her a three on a 1 to 10 scale of importance. 

Luckily for him, you are not an impulsive person and can let your anger simmer slowly and quietly, for the longest time. A promotion is hanging over your and Taehyung’s heads and Yoongi has a whole lot of luck today because your mouth is shut and will remain so until they drive away to the honeymoon you will schedule in a limousine that you will rent for them. 

“Thank you, Yoongi,” Taehyung interrupts the awkward silence, probably sensing the energy you’re emitting - after years of working side by side with you and being your friend, he can feel the waves of negative emotions long before they’re ready to hit. “Now, we’re already running a bit late and since we’re planners, our entire being functions on punctuality - let’s not waste more time and get down to business.” 

“Right,” Sojung agrees. “We’re going to start with the venues, right?” she asks. 

“Yes,” you answer her, slipping completely into your professional role, now very confident that the facade won’t crack, at least not before 11 o’clock. “Every possible cottage, villa, country club that we have reserved are here,” you struggle to turn your monitor towards them, sitting quite a bit away from it - much to your dismay, Yoongi is the one who helps you. “Thank you,” you mumble quickly, opening the correct powerpoint. “Now, all of these are simply tentatively reserved, as a favor to our company so our time with each place is limited. For organization’s sake, we need to narrow down your choices today and then, if you decide that’s what you want, you can visit the venue with us - we highly recommend that you do, as some of these pictures don’t do the venue justice,” you explain. 

“Alright then,” Sojung leans closer to the monitor, and to Yoongi - you don’t miss the way she touches his shoulder gently. Arranged marriage, your ass - they obviously have a decent connection, at the very least. “Let’s see what we have here.”

Your personal phone has remained on mute from the moment Sojung and Yoongi had left your office. Being the smart woman that you are, you had the number separated from your business one, giving you the luxury of ignoring Yoongi the whole day while still being able to tend to unavoidable calls and emails. 

And boy, is he relentless. The last time you checked, you had over 10 missed calls and 20 texts. None answered and none read. You do not want to hear it, saving the remnants of your energy and sanity for things other than his excuses. 

Glass of wine in hand, you stare switches from the phone to the apple cinnamon candle, both placed theatrically in the very middle of your coffee table - you wanted the sight to mock you, to remind you of what a fool you were. 

At the end of the day, Yoongi did not wrong Sojung - he did not cheat on her, he did not lie to her (that you know of), he did not even approach you first, nor was he the one to start flirting. He did not wrong her - flirting with another person is a gray area, a gray area you wouldn’t feel comfortable with if you were his fiance, but still - nothing wrong, not on paper. 

In reality, he didn’t even wrong you. Did he ask you out on a date? No, not specifically. Having coffee or dinner can still very much be a friendly activity and he did not call it a date - he did not kiss you, he did not make a direct move, nor did he at any point say he is single. 

You are the guilty one, not him. Despite your better judgment, despite knowing that you barely know the guy, you’ve allowed yourself to get your hopes up, if only just a little. The flirt and banter got to you, he was cute and you have been single for long enough to know that you are emotionally ready for another person to make your life a bit more colorful. Your hopes weren’t high, but they were there. It’s your fault more than it is his, and that’s the bitter truth that you need to accept. That, and the fact that you now have to plan his wedding. 

The flowers were already selected and the venue choice was narrowed down to two places - both Sojung and Yoongi were incredibly easy to please, which was a blessing in disguise - the less time you have to spend with him, the better. A road trip is in store for tomorrow afternoon, the four of you are meant to meet at the large venue first, have them check it out and then drive to the smaller option, hopefully with the couple reaching a decision on the spot. You will have to spend more than an hour with him tomorrow and you only have tonight to prepare for it. Oh, how lucky you are to be calm, collected and professional. Those qualities have saved your ass countless times, but this one might be the biggest of all. 

You were on the second glass when the doorbell rings - and you ignore it willingly, knowing that it’s Taehyung on the other side. He had spent the better part of the day checking on you, double checking on you, asking if you can go through with this and wondering if you should drop the wedding after all. Once you finally snapped at him and ordered him to drop the topic entirely, he was quiet, save from insisting that you get together tonight, to watch a movie or drink yourselves to an early grave - basically, to do anything to distract yourself. 

You refused, but Taehyung isn’t the type of man to back off from a challenge. The doorbell rings again and without batting an eye, you ignore it, sipping calmly on your wine in silence, eyes locked on the stupid candle that you had helped him pick. After there was no response to the third doorbell ring, he had turned to knocking at your door - rather loudly, at that. 

“Taehyung, go away!” you snap, knowing that the walls are thin enough for him to hear you. “I told you I don’t need company tonight. I’m busy. Go get drunk alone!” 

“It’s me.” 

The glass slips from your hand but by some miracle, you manage to catch it before red wine stains your favorite pastel yellow comforter - the shock had made you lose your focus and your grip, because never for the life of you did you think you’d hear Yoongi on the other side of the door. 

You still didn’t want to open the door but something told you that he won’t be leaving anytime soon. Besides, you can’t push that conversation away for too long - maybe it’s better if you have it here and now, you backed up with liquid courage and with no witnesses around. 

Sighing, you stand up from the most comfortable sofa the world has ever known and waddle towards the front door to your apartment, wrapping yourself even tighter in your comforter. With one deep breath, you unlock and open the door. 

You are not surprised to see him breathless, dishevelled even. It’s also easy to notice the relief on his face - it’s so obvious it’s practically palpable. He thought you wouldn’t open the door and would continue to ignore him. Perhaps you should have, but it’s too late for that. 

“How did you find out where I live?” you ask the most obvious question, hoping for a simple answer. He and his family are loaded, which was something you didn’t know last Friday when you approached him. The last thing you need is to know that with a bit of money, someone can find personal information about you. 

“Taehyung told me,” he answers. “No!” he immediately jumps up when he notices your reaction, the eyeroll paired with the jaw clench. “Don’t take it out on him, I practically begged him to give me an address and I think he only did it to save his job.” 

“Did you threaten him?” you are bewildered. 

“No!” he almost yells, very obviously offended. “Of course not. I’m not going to… use my wedding as a wager. He just knows that in order for stuff to proceed normally, or as normal as they can actually be, we need to… well… talk. So don’t blame him.” 

“I’m not sure if a talk is necessary,” you are reluctant. Deep down, you know that it truly is - it’s just that you really don’t want to do it. “I can separate my private and business life with ease. From the moment you stepped foot in my office, you became nothing more than a client - a client whose wedding I have to plan and I think it’s both in your best interest and mine for it to all go smoothly. And it will, I can assure you.” 

“Y/N,” he sighs, leaning his hand on your doorframe - he looks tired, worried, as if it has been eating him out the whole day - it probably has. “Are you not even going to give me a chance to explain myself?” he asks. 

“Is there a need for that, though?” you wonder. “We met by accident, we had coffee. A few texts were exchanged and that’s it. You did not lie to me about your… relationship status and I was dumb not to ask. You didn’t wrong Sojung, you didn’t wrong me. As far as I’m concerned, there’s nothing to explain - the only thing that needs attention is how we will proceed from now on and I insist that it is nothing but professional. No friendly banter, no texts, no calls - in fact, you probably should delete my number and only use my business one if we need to discuss wedding details. You can rest assured, you are nothing but a client in my eyes.” 

You’re not lying. In your eyes, that’s all he is. In your mind though, perhaps even in your heart, if only in traces, he’s still the guy that you clicked with with ease you don’t know you’ve ever experienced before. Which doesn’t mean that you can’t ignore it - you know you can. 

“I understand that you don’t want to listen to an explanation but can you at least give me a chance to say one, for my own sake?” he pleads with you. Knowing that there is nothing he can say that could make you change your mind, you decide to give in, stepping aside and opening the door to your apartment fully and signalling him to walk in. After a second of hesitation, he walks inside, not moving past the hallway - you’re thankful for that, as you really don’t want him to overstay his welcome. 

“Okay, let’s hear it,” you sigh, wanting him to know that this is not pleasant for you, if he wasn’t even aware of it already. Looking him over, you notice how jittery he is, reminding you of how he was wiping his hands on his jeans back when you were at the café. Switching from one leg to another, he runs a hand through his platinum blond hair, taking a deep breath almost as if he is bracing himself. 

“The first thing that you need to know and that I’m not sure if you’re aware of, is that my marriage with Sojung is arranged,” he starts. So it turns out that Taehyung’s hunch was on point - good on him, you weren’t able to figure it yourself. “We have known each other for years and I do consider her… a friend, I suppose. But there are no romantic feelings between us, even though we are going through with the wedding.” 

“It’s surprisingly common,” you nod your head disinterestedly, looking away from him and around the hallway, not wanting to look at him and his pitiful face for too long. “I’ve organized plenty of weddings for couples that were marrying for nothing more than duty. And quite a few of them are happily married now, too, so there’s hope for Sojung and yourself.”

“Y/N, it’s not like that,” Yoongi sighs, pausing for a moment as he shakes his head. “It doesn’t matter. That’s not the reason why I’m here - that’s not the explanation I owe you.” 

“You don’t owe me anything but the price of my wedding planning services.” 

“I never planned on approaching you,” he continues as if you didn’t interrupt him at all. “I didn’t even see you before you approached me. I don’t know what I was thinking, or if I was thinking at all. I just… really enjoyed spending time with you and I wanted to get to know you better. The last thing on my mind was Sojung. And that’s unfair to both of you.” 

“It is, especially to her,” you agree. “But again, other than a minor lapse in judgment, you did nothing that is more than… morally gray area wrong. I was the one who approached you and other than flirting that led to absolutely nowhere, nothing else happened. If you want to come clean about it to Sojung, you have my blessing,” you add with a shrug. If that is what will make him sleep better at night, he might as well do it. You did not know him before, you have no metaphorical blood on your hands. “I, however, have a job to do and I plan to do it well. Once again, I’d appreciate it if our communication from now on is strictly professional and as far as I’m concerned, you are nothing but a client. And if you do want to tell Sojung about what had happened, I will act accordingly and understand if you do not want me in charge of your wedding. Taehyung could do it alone, or with the help of another of the planners in our company - we have plenty that you can pick and choose from.” 

“It’s not about that,” Yoongi seems irritated with you now, or perhaps with himself, but you couldn’t care less. “I’m just sorry I didn’t tell you everything from the get-go. I know we didn’t touch on the subject but I should have raised it myself.” 

“Tell me one thing, though,” your curiosity got the best of you and there was a tiny, miniscule part of you that was incredibly salty about this whole ordeal and wanted to kick him in the shin - you went for the verbal version of that. “Were you going to tell me at some point? At the dinner you tried to schedule? Or before that? Or ever, really?” 

His reaction is almost painful to watch, the guilt and cringe taking over him. It’s enough to make you realize that no, he did not make specific plans to tell you. At some point, he might have, but he did not plan it. 

“That is all I needed to know,” you nod with a kind but incredibly fake smile. “You should get going, Yoongi. I need my rest and so do you - we have a long day ahead of us tomorrow - there are venues to pick” 

It’s obvious that he wants to say more, that he is not done speaking but what it is that he wants to say will remain a mystery to you - possibly even to himself, seeing how he is struggling to put the words out. He might want to say more but you’re no longer interested in listening - as far as you are concerned, everything between you is sorted. You emphasise that point with opening your front door and signalling him with your hand to leave, the exact same way you signalled him to come in just a minute ago. For a second, only a second, he hesitates but he listens to you and leaves, turning around to face you on your doorstep. 

“If you change your mind and want to talk more, you have my number,” he tells you. 

“And you do not have mine - remember, only the business one. As far as we’re concerned, my private phone number is out of service. Have a good night, Yoongi. I’ll see you tomorrow,” you don’t wait for a goodbye but you don’t slam the door in his face either, instead choosing to close it softly, locking it immediately. You stay in place until you can hear him walking down the stairs to the floor below - only when you’re sure that he’s left, you return to your sofa of comfort and the trusty glass of wine. 

Taehyung will have to pay for giving him your personal information - while you understand the intention, it is not something you are cool with, seeing as Yoongi already knows entirely too much about you. That being said, at least you can put it past you now - you are free to go about organizing this wedding like the pro that you are. 

It’ll be over in about a month, anyway. And after that, you won’t have to deal with Yoongi in any shape or form, and for now, that’s good enough to make you truck through this ordeal. 

“Are you sure that you’ll be okay with the two of them alone?” Taehyung asks you for what has to be the fifth time, despite your answer always being the same. Wrapped up in your coats and scarfs, the two of you are in the parking lot of the large woodside villa, leaned on your respective cars, as you wait for Sojung and Yoongi to make an appearance - they are not late, but like the control freaks that you are, both yourself and Tae have arrived early. 

“How many times have I told you that I’ll be perfectly fine?” you ask in annoyance, now starting to grow seriously bothered with his constant need to check in on you. He has your wellbeing in mind, you know - but it’s still annoying. “That’s the whole reason we drove here separately. We’ll check this place with them together, and then you can go rescue the baby shower from a pending disaster - I’ll take care of the second venue and no, I won’t break down because I am alone with them. You know that, so stop bugging me already.” 

“I’m just worried Y/N,” he sighs. 

“I know,” you nod, rolling your eyes. “But if I assure you multiple times that it’s all fine and dandy and that the issue had been sorted last night, I expect that you can listen to me and respect that. I’m not a teenager, Tae. This is my job - I am capable of handling this.” 

“Okay, if you say so,” he lifts his hands up in surrender but you have a suspicion that this won’t be the last time he checks on you today. Whether he is doing it as your team member or as a best friend - you don’t know and it doesn’t matter. You’ll reassure him and tell him off if need be. “I just hope they arrive soon, cause I’m freezing my nuts off over here.” 

“Well, Sojung always was punctual,” you comment with a shrug. “Which can’t be said for her groom, if yesterday’s meeting is anything to go by.” 

“See!” Tae exclaims so loudly, it startles you. “You won’t even say his name! I know you are bitter and have every right to be but that confirms that you aren’t okay with this.” 

“Min. Yoongi,” you deadpan. “I can damn well say his name, Taehyug. Let it rest - you’re the only one that’s keeping this conversation alive - both Yoongi and I have buried it already.” 

“Wait a second, Sojung is calling me,” Tae interrupts your conversation and you barely listen in to what he’s telling her, instead choosing to shuffle the snow around with your feet. While you understand the worry, you wish that after all these years, Taehyung could have more faith in you and your professionalism. Granted, this situation is anything but normal but you know better than to put your job at risk for a guy - especially a guy you had barely gotten to know by the time you realized he’s the last person in the world you want to get close to. 

“Sojung is not coming,” Tae tells you and for a moment, you’re taken aback by this information. Instantly, you wonder if Yoongi had told her something and she wants nothing to do with either him or you. “She has an urgent meeting for her non-profit and she is apologizing profusely,” he explains. 

“Damn it,” you sigh. You guys needed their final decision for the location today - if you have to postpone the whole thing, especially after driving all the way out of town… what a waste of time. “When does she want us to reschedule it for?” you are already scrolling through your calendar, trying to find a time to squeeze her in before a bridesmaid dress fitting for another wedding and a bachelorette party that you are organizing this weekend. 

“She doesn’t,” Taehyung laughs - both his reaction and the information confuses you. “That’s why we’re in a pickle. Yoongi is minutes away and she trusts completely that he will be able to make the decision himself. Basically, it’s gonna be his call.” 

“And I’m going to have to go to the next venue with him alone, won’t I?” 

“Yup,” Taehyung confirms your suspicions. “Unless you want me to stay here and get someone else to cover the baby shower. I’m sure Sana will find someone to fill in-” he stops talking as you raise your hand, shaking your head at him. 

“Nope. Not needed. I’ll handle it and we’ll have the venue selected by the end of the day,” you reassure, both him and yourself. “I’m amazed that Sojung doesn’t want to be a part of this, though. I mean, she did, she was supposed to be here but… did we ever have a bride that didn’t want to be included in the venue selection?” 

“Never,” a chuckle leaves Taehyung as he shakes his head in disbelief. “In most cases, it’s their word that counts more than the grooms. This one is a first.” 

“Guess it really is an arranged marriage after all,” you mutter under your breath, deciding that kicking snow with your boots was once again more interesting than being the subject of Taehyung’s worried gaze. It was getting annoying to the point of you feeling actual relief when you could see a car driving towards the parking lot, easily recognizing Yoongi’s platinum hair from behind the windshield. Yes, it had gotten to the point when him joining you is considered a relief. 

Less than a month. Less than a full month and this will all be over. 

“Hi everyone,” he greets you as he jumps out of the car, one entirely too big for someone living in the city - perhaps he doesn’t live in the city - like many other things about him, you didn’t ever find out where he actually lives. Greeting him with a formal nod, you follow Taehyung as you meet him halfway. “Did Sojung explain already?” 

“Yes, we know she won’t be joining us,” Taehyung confirms. “We’ll guide you through this venue and give you as many details as possible. Unfortunately, I will not be able to go with you to the second venue that you’ve selected - Y/N will be in charge of that,” he signals towards you and you force yourself to smile kindly. 

“Yes, I will be the one guiding you through that one and explaining all the details. That is, of course, if both Sojung and you are fine with that,” you add, still wondering if there’s a chance of Sojung changing her mind and wanting to see the place herself - that would make you waste your time twice, and to you, time is money. 

“Oh yes,” he nods quickly. “We’re on the same page about all of this. She liked both venues, she’s fine with me making the final call,” he tells you. Huh. Soulmate behaviour, right there. 

“Alrighty then,” Taehyung chuckled nervously and it makes you wonder if he might be the one feeling the most uncomfortable out of the three of you. You are completely free of emotion, stoic and professional, while the nervousness that Yoongi was exhibiting last night in your hallway is nowhere to be seen. The only one that appears to be uncomfortable in any way is Taehyung and you can’t blame him - but after his earlier overprotectiveness that annoyed you, you don’t particularly care to help him either. “Let’s see what we have here, shall we?” he asks, leading the way towards the grand entrance of the villa. You silently follow, letting Yoongi walk before you, hoping that this day will somehow pass faster. 

“The decision, ultimately, is about how many people you want at the wedding,” you tell Yoongi as you turn in place, standing in the place where couples normally put their wedding arches. “This one is smaller, fits less people and once we add all the floral arrangements and decor, it’ll look even smaller. It feels… more intimate, more meaningful. The villa is perfect if you have a bunch of family and friends to whom you want to flaunt your wealth,” you joke, but your smile disappears quickly. “But at the end of the day, it’s all about what Sojung and you want - small and meaningful or grand and wealthy.”

You watch as Yoongi runs a hand through his hair, sitting on one of the presented guest chairs, one that would be on the side of the groom - the seat belonging to one of the parents, usually. You wonder if the hair thing is something he does when he feels nervous or uncomfortable because right now, he looks like a mixture of both. 

“It’s all about what we want,” he repeats your words under his breath. It is easy for you to pick a favorite between him and Sojung - at least every move that she makes doesn’t show that this is an arranged marriage she isn’t interested in. Or maybe, you’re the problem - he did not seem this down when Tae was with you. “Is it normal for people not to know what they want for their own wedding?” he asks, lifting his head up to look at you. 

“Oh, absolutely,” you laugh. “More often than not, they have no idea. And if you get someone who knows exactly what they want, they are usually incredibly hard to please. It’s alright to be indecisive. It’s okay to want more time to think about it. Hell, it’s okay to tell Sojung to make the final call - but at the end of the day, it really is about what you guys want. Nothing else should matter.” 

“It’s an arranged marriage,” he says sarcastically. “Neither of us wants anything.” 

“Well, being two grown adults, you probably should have considered that before agreeing to it,” you point out the obvious, only to curse yourself on the inside. You’re doing it - you are crossing the professional line and that’s something you’ve promised yourself that you will not do. “Ideally, you get married only once. So yeah, it is about what you want. And if you don’t want anything, then it’s the lesser of two evils. Do you want 40 people at your wedding or 400? Do you want food made a la carte, pre-decided menus or a buffet? I can offer you advice based on other arranged couples whose weddings I’ve organized,” you add. 

“Please do.” 

“They always go for the lesser of two evils,” you shrug. “Few guests, especially if everyone attending knows it’s arranged. Pre-decided menus, one to pick out of four, including a vegan option, of course, that they get on the RSVP. Short reception time, no honeymoon. That’s what they go for. If that’s what you guys want, I can make it happen.” 

“No,” he shakes his head, finally seeming decisive. “It might be arranged but I harbor no ill feelings for Sojung,” he tells you and this time, he’s crossing the line - you’re letting him, too. This is not a topic we should be discussing. “I don’t know her well but I know her well enough to know she doesn’t want 400 people attending. We’ll go for this venue and work on the details as we go,” he tells you and you nod, quickly jotting it down into your notepad - you are as old school as possible, always with your notepad and trusty purple pencil. 

“I will be speaking to Sojung later today, since we have to schedule the wedding dress shopping for tomorrow,” you inform him. “I’ll ask her myself if she agrees, but I suggest you do it first - it’s only fair. And if you are both on the same page, by tomorrow, we will reserve this venue for good, and then we can proceed with picking out the decorations and the rest. I will need both of you to work on your guest list - either individually or together. This venue can hold 100 guests, 120 if we push it. That is your maximum, the minimum can be the two of you and witnesses. The sooner you prepare your guest list, the better - with less than a month left until the 24th, you will need those RSVPs, especially if they include an option to select their own food,” you spit out the information, noticing his eyes widen in panic with the tasks and details you were spilling out. “If you need any help at all, both Taehyung and I are here - even with the guestlist. But for now, I suggest you go home, think about the venue again and talk to Sojung. The rest can be overwhelming, but we’re taking it one step at a time,” you tell him. 

“I never thought that wedding planning could be this… comprehensive,” he lets out a humorless laugh, one that you join - your laughter also lacks humor. In fact, you sound tired. 

“Welcome to my world,” you announce theatrically, before taking a deep breath. “Okay, that’s it for today. Go home, talk to her and start thinking about the guest list. Unless you have any questions?” you add, realizing that you’ve completely overlooked that part of the whole excursion. 

“Actually, I do,” he tells you, standing up from his seat - he doesn’t move or walk towards you, which you appreciate. So far, things have remained fairly professional and you’re trying desperately to keep them that way and not let your façade crack. “Are you even okay with doing all of this? After… everything?” he asks. 

“After what?” you ask, an angelic smile gracing your face. He catches your drift and lets out an awkward laugh. “I am one of the best event organizers in the country, Yoongi. And I’m not fluffing up my ego when I say that - it’s the truth. Especially if I’m working on an event with Taehyung. The little… accident that occured before won’t make me falter.” 

“And what if it makes me falter?” he asks. The question makes your heart skip a beat but you do your very best not to let it show on your face - after all, you’re a proven champion in controlling your reactions. “What do I do then?” 

“I want to say that it sounds like a ‘you’ problem but that’s a bit rude, isn’t it?” 

“Ha!” he laughs out loud, this time actual, genuine laughter. “No, after everything I think it’s pretty fair of you to say that. It is a ‘me' problem. I apologize for even asking - you were too fair considering everything and the least I can do is respect your decision and keep things strictly professional and friendly.” 

“I would truly appreciate it if you’d do that,” you tell him honestly. “I am okay with organizing this. I’ll organize the shit out of your wedding and it’ll be the talk of the town if that’s what you want,” you promise him with a smile. “But the scratch is there - I won’t call it a wound because it’s not what it is. It’s a scratch. A scratch that still stings if you add salt to it. So let’s keep it professional. It’ll make things easier for me, and I’m sure for you, too.” 

“I will do my best,” he promises you. “Thank you, by the way. For doing this.” 

“Nonsense,” you give him your best, charming smile and at this point, it no longer feels fake - it once did, it really did, but it has become second nature to you. Less than one month and it’ll all be over. “It’s my job, after all.” 

When asked, event planners often have different answers to the question of what’s the worst part of their job. Most would probably answer last minute delays or change in plans - and those truly are a pain in the ass. A bunch of people would answer organizing kids’ birthday parties - a whole bunch of your colleagues even refuse to take on events like that, as not everyone is made to work with kids. While it’s not your favorite thing in the world, you can handle kiddie parties and you survive delays and plan changes. What you do hate though, with every fiber of your being, is ending up alone with the bridal party. 

The bridesmaids, sisters, mother, mother-in-law, sisters-in-law and every single woman of importance to the bride, along with the bride herself - it’s always loud and giggly and all too much for an ambivert like yourself. While you do organize your bachelorette parties, you do your very best to avoid attending them, and as an event planner, you often have to. But at those kinds of parties, it’s easy to stay on the sidelines. When it comes to wedding dress shopping, you somehow always end up in the mix and you hate it. You absolutely hate it. 

By some miracle, being the angel of a bride that she is, Sojung does not have a large bridal party - three friends, one sister and her mother - that’s it. No one on Yoongi’s side of the family is here and you know better than to question it - you are just glad you don’t have to deal with 20 loud and opinionated women who want to see Sojung pick out a dress. 

So far, she has tried three dresses, all of which fit her perfectly. On a beautiful woman like herself, even a sack would look amazing. She had an elegant style, picking unassuming and not too flashy or fluffy dresses. Once again, she has proven that she has taste and that she is one of the most chilled brides you’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. 

The dress she is wearing right now makes her look absolutely stunning, even with her make-up free face. You can only imagine how breathtaking she will look once she goes through all the bridal touch-ups and makeup. It’s a simple and sleek long-sleeved dress that goes all the way to the ground and follows her body line almost perfectly, barely widening at the end. The only skin it shows is her shoulders, and if she were to go for an updo or half-updo, you can see it working perfectly. Simply, yet breathtakingly elegant. That somehow describes both the dress and Sojung herself. 

“Yeah, I think this is my final choice,” she smiles at her own reflection, obviously happy with the final result. Her friends and family erupt in cheers which startle you for a second, but you awkwardly laugh and join in on their clapping. Eh, you suppose it’s a feeling you’ll understand when your close friend or you yourself find your dress. Now, it’s just a bit awkward but you are more than happy to have one more item off your checklist. 

“This deserves a celebration!” Sojung’s mother announces. “We’re all going for drinks, the mother of the bride is paying,” she laughs when the other girls start clapping and cheering. “Y/N dear, do you want to join us, too? We’ll be happy to have you,” she adds, and her invitation is nothing short of genuine - you’ve heard her praising you as the best wedding planner Sojung could have asked for. 

“Oh no no,” you refuse immediately, smiling at her. “I have a wedding to plan. Besides, I still need to stay here and so does Sojung, unfortunately,” you say, looking at Sojung herself. “They need to take your measurements and see if there needs to be some modification to the dress. Since we’re running on a tight schedule, we need to have it done today.” 

“Oh, not a problem at all,” she smiles at your explanation. “You guys go, I’ll join you later, maybe even convince Y/N to join us,” she tells her group and after a bit of a discussion about where to go, they leave the two of you with the seamstress. Sojung insists that you join her for the measurement part and you do, without thinking twice about it. Organizing the thing is only part of the job - being the emotional support is another, something you’re not truly warned about before joining this line of work. 

Both of you are quiet as the seamstress dances around Sojung, moving the fabric to see how well it fits and moves on her, looking for absolute perfection. Sojung is looking at her reflection and you notice what you can describe as a sad smile on her face. She catches you looking in the mirror before you can look away, but she smiles at you. 

“You know how they say that once you try the dress, you’ll know it’s the one?” she asks and you laugh, having heard the theatrical “this is it, this is the one” one too many times to count - you don’t hold it against the brides, though. The idea is that it’s their special dress, the one they will (hopefully) only choose and wear once. 

“More than once, I’m afraid,” you joke, making her giggle. 

“Yeah, I imagine you’ve heard it a lot,” she mumbles, turning a bit to the side to look at her own profile. “I thought it would feel like that, too. You hear the stories, you see all the wedding shows and you imagine this magical moment that can’t compare to any other special occasion that you’ve ever experienced in your life.” 

“It doesn’t happen to everyone,” you reassure her with a kind smile once you notice her looking at you in the mirror. “Some brides love the extravaganza. They live for attention. Some women who have other interests and character usually just pick them and are done with it. You’re not the first one I haven’t seen shed tears of joy.” 

“Oh, I get that,” she nods, letting the seamstress turn her body towards you and away from the mirror. Once again, you notice that Sojung doesn’t look nearly as happy as brides usually are - not nearly as happy as she was on other occasions. “I just suppose that it’s started to hit me that this is an arranged marriage, after all.” 

To that, you’re not sure what to say. Her statement explains the sadness, as well as the lack of excitement at finding the perfect dress. Even in regular circumstances, this conversation would be a hard one to have, but given your… familiarization with Yoongi, prior to realizing that he is the groom at one of your weddings, it is even harder. 

“Those are still incredibly common,” you tell her, hoping that you sound reassuring. “I’ve planned my fair share of them. And believe it or not, they have a decent turnover rate. Sometimes better than marriages built on pure and utter love.” 

“Both mine and Yoongi’s parents were married like that,” she tells you. “And we both ended up with loving families. I know we’re not… doomed from the start. It's just… at times it doesn’t feel right. It doesn’t feel entirely wrong either but it also doesn’t feel completely right."

“Getting cold feet is also completely normal,” you reassure her, doing your very best to make her realize that her feelings are more than valid. “It happens more often than you realize, both with brides and grooms. It’s normal, with marriage being such a huge step and change. From my experience, I’d advise you to sit down and speak to Yoongi about it, honestly. I don’t know how close the two of you are but I’ve seen an insane amount of respect you have for one another and one another’s opinions. If you are second guessing yourself, talk to him. It might be more helpful than you think.” 

Or, you could be shooting yourself in the foot and losing a wedding that might lead you to a promotion. Honestly, you’d rather lose the promotion than seeing someone as kind as Sojung sabotage herself. Her behaviour towards you left a bitter taste of guilt in your mouth from the moment you found out who Yoongi actually is - time and time again, you had to remind yourself that it’s not your fault and that you did nothing wrong. Whether or not that had influenced your advice to her, you don’t know for sure. What you do know is that she is too likeable for you to hold anything against her. She genuinely is a decent human being and it would be so much easier for you to go through this if she was a bitter bitch. Maybe then the taste of guilt wouldn’t haunt you - however, it’s something you’ll never find out. 

“I think you might be right,” she nods thoughtfully, a small smile forming on her face. “Even if it’s just a casual conversation, it might be helpful to talk with him about it.” 

“Exactly,” you confirm. “Planning a wedding… it’s crazy. You have so many things to think of, so many choices to make, as well as compromises you might not be ready for. It takes a toll on both sides, so it really would be good for you to sit down and just… talk.” 

“Thank you Y/N,” she smiles at you gratefully. “You’re truly the best.” 

“Just doing my job,” you laugh, wondering in your own head how the fuck did you get from having a crush on a random guy from the mall to having to convince his bride-to-be not to leave him in a matter of days. Less than a month and it’ll all be over. 

“But I want carrot cake,” Yoongi looks like a sulky child - very literally, seeing as he pouts and crosses his arms, acting like he just got grounded by his parents. It’s amusing to see a grown ass man act like that over something as simple as cake - almost as amusing as it is to see a heavyweight businessman with platinum dyed hair - although, in the past week, it had changed to a more neutral color - it’s a more natural blonde, which you are silently grateful for, as it would definitely look better in the wedding photos - you’re sure both Taehyung and Sojung share the sentiment. 

“Look,” you lean across the table, doing your best to hide your smile. “I love carrot cake, too. It’s my absolute favorite, in fact. But the amount of people that can’t stand the sight of it is incredibly high and I can promise you that at least one third of your 60 guests will have their gag reflex activated at the very sight of it.” 

Both Sojung and Taehyung laugh loudly at your explanation, which is entirely caused by previous experience. Yoongi hides a smile but he is still pouting, still pissy about his damn carrot cake. And you get it, you truly do, but the wedding is not just about him. 

“Y/N makes a very accurate point,” Taehyung backs you up. “The safest bet is to go with the classic - chocolate, vanilla, either or both. That way, even if you have someone who absolutely hates chocolate and or vanilla on your guest list, they’ll have no right to complain because it’s a classic and they’re absolutely weird as hell for not liking it.” 

“You two are so funny,” Sojung laughs, before turning to Yoongi. “I do want to honor your love for carrot cake, though. Is there a way to make it happen? Like… one tier?” 

“Of course,” you nod, exchanging looks with Seokjin, your favorite pastry chef in existence. 

“For 60 people, we can look at a medium sized three tier cake,” he explains. “Carrot cake tends to be more moist than regular chocolate sponge, so it would have to go on the very top, as the smallest tier. Which also makes sense organization wise, since the groom and Miss Wedding Planner over here are the only two people who’ll want to eat it.” 

“Oh shush,” they all laugh when you smack him on the shoulder with your trusty notebook. “Can you make it happen or not? Three tiers, bottom two chocolate sponge with vanilla cream filling and top carrot cake? Or should I take this to your biggest competitor who I know will gladly bend over backwards to make the cake happen?” you tease him, laughing at the scowl he sends your way. 

“Sold,” he grunts. “Now, let’s see what the two of you want the decor to be like. Here you have some examples,” he tells them as he pushes his cake portfolio towards them. “Of course, if you have some specific ideas other than carrot cake on top, I can make it happen. Take your time to look through it.” 

As expected, Sojung and Yoongi reach their decision easily, choosing to go for a simple, white, three-tier cake that will include the same winter flowers that Sojung’s wedding bouquet will have. Sooner than you thought is possible, the two of them gave Seokjin their blessing and were on their merry way, leaving you and Taehyung with your friend and frequent partner, as well as a bunch of cake to eat. 

“I can’t believe you’re that unlucky,” Seokjin laughs as you stuff your face with more cake - the carrot one, of course. “One time you meet a guy, the one time you’re ballsy enough to make the first move, he ends up being a client. I couldn’t be as unlucky as you are even if I tried.” 

“Tell me about it,” you mumble with your mouth full. “I was fuming when I first figured it out, but I’ve had time to cool off. So far, it’s been smooth sailing.” 

“Yeah, except both of them have expressed having cold feet,” Taehyung rolls his eyes. 

“Which is perfectly normal,” you pause to swallow - no more pigging out for you today, you’ve already must have had three full slices, even if you know damn well how each of the cakes Seokjin had presented tastes like. “Besides, you saw them today. They’re fine and dandy.” 

“I beg to differ,” Seokjin laughs. “They’re friendly, not fine and dandy. My theory is that by the time the wedding day is here, Mr. Groom will realize he’s madly in love with you.” 

“Please,” you roll your eyes. “That’s not going to happen. Sojung is a damn catch and he knows it. He was able to pretend like nothing had ever happened.” 

“You talk as someone who doesn’t realize the way he looks at you when your eyes aren’t on him,” Taehyung tells you. “Oh! Wait!” he gasps dramatically. “You are someone who doesn’t realize how he looks at you when he knows you’re not looking at him.” 

“Interesting - is he looking at me in a way that says I’d totally date you if you weren’t planning my wedding or is it a different kind of vibe?” you snap at him, annoyed at his suggestion. Yoongi might not be the man of your dreams but he sure as hell isn’t stupid - and you are fairly certain that if he is sneaking glances at you, they aren’t of the nature Taehyung thinks they are. “Meeting him was nothing more than a happy accident. Finding out that I am organizing his wedding was an unfortunate accident that saved my ass from possibly being hurt somewhere down the line. He has been fully cooperative and almost completely professional - and you, my dear friends, are imagining things. You want gossip and drama and the groom having a thing for me would provide you with both.” 

“While I can’t argue with that,” Seokjin starts, to which both you and Taehyung laugh. “It doesn’t mean it’s not the truth. I’ve spent half an hour with them and I promise you, he had eyes for you more than for his bride to be.” 

“Arranged marriage,” you explain. “They’ll be alright and I’ll be promoted. All is well.” 

You refuse to continue the conversation. As far as things go, you are more than happy with the current state of your relationship with Yoongi - as you’ve said, it is strictly professional, with a few jokes here and there - no different than the one you have with Sojung. By the time you watch him greet her at the end of the aisle, you’ll leave all the bitterness behind you. It still might be here in traces, but by then it’ll be long gone. 

You might even take up Sana on the offer to set you up with a friend of hers - she’s been mentioning him for ages, insisting that he’d be perfect for you. You refused her multiple times, saying you are fine as you are and you aren’t looking for anything but things have changed. As long as he’s not engaged to be married (and your client, at that), you might just give it a go and fully leave the Yoongi mess behind you. 

“And what about a live band?” Sojung asks, as the two of you follow Taehyung through the many rows of the exact same gift shop that you and Yoongi had met in - he is following the two of you in silence and it’s difficult to tell how he feels about coming back here, but it was nothing more than an accident, since Taehyung had picked the place and as far as you know, he has absolutely no idea where exactly your and Yoongi’s meeting took place. 

“That’s something Taehyung and I disagree on, big time,” you tell her honestly. “You’ll hear two differing opinions. He’ll always go for a live band at weddings and I’d rather you just give a list, hire a DJ, tell him which songs are a must and which are a skip and be done with it.” 

“Why are you against a live band, though?” Yoongi interrupts your conversation. 

“Well, too many things can go wrong,” you explain, continuing to walk with Sojung, not even sparing him a glance. “From broken equipment, a drunk lead singer, a bass player who tries to chase around the bridesmaids… you name it - we’ve seen it.” 

“Yeah… no live band?” Sojung suggests, looking back at Yoongi and you turn to face him too, just in time to catch a nod. 

“No live band,” he agrees easily. 

“Well, that was easy,” you joke. “I know a few DJs but if you have an idea of what kind of music you want, it doesn’t really matter who you’ll pick. You’ll just need to come up with a list of songs you want or would like to hear, as extensive or as minimal as you’d like - and the general genres, as well as if there are some songs you absolutely do not want to hear.” 

“I think you might have just found your first hurdle with us,” Sojung starts laughing. “What? Why? How?” you are on full alert. 

“I like… pop music. You know, the top 40 stuff. Yoongi, however, is a huge fan of hip hop,” she informs you. This causes you to stop in your tracks and turn around. Yoongi freezes in place too, confused by the judgmental gaze you give him. 

“You like hip hop?” you ask, finding it hard to imagine him listening to Snoop or Eminem. It just… doesn’t go with the businessman person that he has. Then again, it goes perfectly with the confused dude in a beanie that you’ve met. 

“I do,” he answers, slowly. “Am I not allowed to?” 

“No, no, you absolutely are,” you shake your head, snapping out of it quickly. “I’m just surprised, that’s all,” you explain, and turn back to Sojung, remembering that she is still very much next to you, listening to the entire exchange. “You’re going to have to find a middle ground there, I’m afraid. I just need a final list and you need to compromise.” 

“I’m fine with the top 40,” Yoongi shrugs as he walks side by side with you. “I mean, I doubt our parents would be particularly interested in dancing to Big Poppa.” 

You laugh so loud, it actually makes Taehyung stop from in front of you and turn in surprise. Both Sojung and Yoongi laugh at your reaction, but you want the ground to swallow you whole. Not only do you have a very specific, embarrassing surprise laugh, but you really do not to fluff up Yoongi’s ego - and you just did that. 

“Sorry about that,” you laugh awkwardly. “Now, let’s go and create those goodie bags.” 

Goodie bags are something that Tae is particularly fond of, therefore, he is often in charge of selecting the content with the couple. You simply tagged along because you need to make sure that he doesn’t go overboard with the pricing - between the two of you, you are the one who tends to keep her eye on the budget. 

Luckily, it’s Christmas season and the wedding is very much centered around it, which gives you a plethora of choices. They’ve selected one cute silver ornament to go in each bag, so yourself and Taehyung ended up with having to pick more than sixty (experience had taught you to always get more than the needed number) ornaments of the same designed and load up your cart, while Sojung and Yoongi walked around the store, looking for more ideas. 

“Why are you glaring at them?” Taehyung asks under his breath once he notices that your eyes are not on the cart, nor the ornaments, but on the two of them, walking around. 

“I’m not glaring at them, I’m watching them,” you offer him a frown. “I’m still a bit worried it’ll all go to shit and we’ll end up with a cancelled wedding, if I’m being honest. They get along well but it’s so obvious that they… don’t really want this. It’s kind of sad to watch.” 

“Tell me honestly - would you want that to happen?” Taehyung asks, causing you to shake your head immediately. 

“Absolutely not,” you answer in a heartbeat. “For one, we’d lose a big wedding. And that’s just the most superficial reason. That happening would probably end up hurting a whole lot of people, probably the two of them, too. And last but not least - it wouldn’t change anything for me. I don’t know why you seem to think that I’d jump at the chance. I consider that chapter to be done, that book to be closed.” 

“I know you do,” Taehyung reassures you in a low voice. “I just wonder if you’d open it if things were to change.” 

“Seeing as we’re currently packing their goodie bag gifts, I doubt we’ll ever have to find out,” you point out the obvious, proceeding to add more ornaments to your cart. Taehyung butting into your business is now starting to get on your last nerve but you’re still holding back from snapping at him at full force, knowing that this is more about your well-being and not gossip. 

He does keep his mouth shut, at least for now, letting the two of you work in silence before finally pushing the cart to where Yoongi and Sojung were standing. It took you a moment too long to realize which display they are in front of - the candle one. 

You allow yourself to close your eyes and take a deep breath - you deserve a moment to brace yourself. While you are mostly okay with the current circumstances, standing at this very place with him and his wife to be is not fun. It’s not fun at all. 

“What do you think about candles?” Sojung turns around, with two small candles in her hands. “They fit the theme, don’t they?” 

“Absolutely,” Taehyung agrees. “They are a great gift and the tiny ones can easily fit a medium sized goodie bag. You can pick more than one scent - not all of them have to be the same - go for different Christmas themed scents, or maybe even include two tiny ones instead of one larger candle.” 

“I love that idea,” Sojung beams at him. “How about we do one vanilla and one Christmas themed, two smaller ones in each bag?” she directs the question to you. 

“No vanilla,” Yoongi speaks up before you even have a chance to open your mouth. The three of you turn to look at him, but unlike Taehyung and Sojung, you know exactly why he said what he did. And you don’t know what to think about it. He doesn’t look at you, but at his fiance, as he explains. “Someone once told me that the scent of vanilla is a big hit or miss. Those who love it, adore it. Those who don’t like it, absolutely hate it,” he explains. 

“That is… very true,” Taehyung chuckles, but given that you don’t end up on the receiving end of his glance, you think that he has no idea that Yoongi got this information for you. 

“Okay, no vanilla,” Sojung smiles, going for the apple cinnamon instead. Oh, the irony. “This is like one of those you got for Tae and Y/N, right? Let’s get those but smaller. That would mean… 120 little candles.” 

“130,” you correct her. “Always have more, always have a backup.” 

“130,” she nods. “How the hell are we going to get all of these to the car?’ 

“Together,” Taehyung jokes. 

It goes on for another hour, the four of you walking around the store in search of tiny gifts. Admittedly, you should have made a better plan before getting here - all the four of you had in mind were Christmas themed gifts - nothing more, nothing less. It was hectic, more hectic than you’d like it to be, but at the end of the day, you got it done and on the way to the parking lot, all available hands between the four of you carrying bags upon bags, Sojung started insisting that Taehyung and you join them for dinner. 

You had no other obligations to use as an excuse, as this appointment was your last of the day but before you could lie and make something up, Taehyung was agreeing and you had no choice but to join their party of three. Just two more weeks. Only two weeks left. 

“Trust us, getting a DJ is the best possible choice,” Taehyung tells them - if anyone but you notices that he is decently buzzed by now, they say nothing. The wine had gotten to him quickly, like it often does. You can handle your alcohol better than he can, but even you can feel the slight buzz caused from the overly expensive red wine that Yoongi had ordered. 

He and Sojung spared no expense, picking a rather fancy restaurant for an impromptu dinner. And despite your earlier reluctance, the evening has so far been very enjoyable. You were once again proven that both Sojung and Yoongi are likeable people, down to earth and funny, albeit in very different ways. It’s interesting to watch, really. Sojung has such a bright and easy going personality, while Yoongi is more on the quieter side, with a special talent in speaking fluent sarcasm. They are the complete opposite to one another, which makes you think that they are either a match made in heaven or a pending disaster. 

“There’s still more work you’ll have to do there, though,” you remind them as you reach for your glass. “We need at least two or three hours of music to work with.” 

“That one will fall on Sojung,” Yoongi chuckles awkwardly. “I am too big of a snob when it comes to music and I don’t think my picks would get the crowd to boogie.” 

“You’re just like this one,” Taehyung nods his head towards you dismissively, while Sojung and Yoongi laugh at the insulted expression on your face. “She knows her music and doesn’t shut up about it. On the drive here, a random song was playing on the radio, right?” He starts telling the story and you close your eyes, wishing that when you have picked your best friend for life, you went for someone who doesn’t yap so much when drunk. “You’d think she’d just enjoy the song, maybe sing along or something. But no, oh no. Y/N here went on a whole rant on how the song sampled the same song that… Childish Gambino sampled or something, even going as far as giving me an actual year when the original was released.” 

“I’m sorry, I know useless information, it’s just the way I am!” you defend yourself, although you are not really insulted. In a way, it’s easier when you’re the butt of the joke - then you don’t have to make an effort to be funny. 

“Gambino?” Yoongi asks. “Then it has to be Bootsy Collins, doesn't it?” 

Your eyes widen at the same time as your jaw drops, shock coursing through your body. “Oh my god, how the hell did you know that?!” you gasp. 

“I mean, my first guess was Redbone,” he shrugs casually. “And ‘I’d rather be with you’ has been sampled one too many times - although, very well sampled, if I might add. It’s one of the best songs ever created, full stop,” Yoongi agrees. 

At the exact same time, both Yoongi and yourself start singing the chorus of the song, both very off key and you being decently buzzed. “I’ve unleashed a monster,” Taehyung sounds dejected, his head in his hands, while Sojung is laughing loudly at the entire scene. 

“No, Tae, you don’t get it,” you try to explain, your words too fast to sound fully coherent. “It’s the perfectly chill but sexy song and when you hear that guitar and he goes I’d rather be with you-ou, yeah, yeah I’d rather be with youuuuu,” you sing, with enough sanity to keep your voice quiet to avoid further embarrassment. 

At this point, both Sojung and Yoongi are laughing at your… sudden display of passion towards a song - to the point that Sojung has to dab a napkin below her eyes to make sure none of her makeup is ruined by the tears of laughter. Tae is just looking at you, with what you can only describe as a mixture of disbelief and surrender. He can’t with you, he just can’t, and that is something that makes you cackle even when you’re fully sober. 

“I can’t believe I’m stuck with you as a friend for the rest of my life,” he deadpans. 

“Oh bub, the feeling is mutual,” you coo at him, before turning to Yoongi and Sojung to explain. “I’ve known him for more than half of my life. There is no one I love more and there is no one I hate more, especially when we disagree over an event we’re in charge of.” 

“Which doesn’t happen often, at all,” sarcasm drips out of Tae’s every word. 

“This dinner was the best idea we’ve ever had,” Sojung laughs. “It’s very nice to see the two of you having fun and not all… business-like and proper.”

“Now you know us after hours,” you joke, stretching your hand to Yoongi who lifted up the bottle of wine in offer. “At the end of the day, it’s our job and people pay us to make sure that their special days go without a single hitch. We’re hardly changing the world, but we try.” 

“You still make people happy,” Yoongi comments, resting his chin on his hands, looking at you from across the table. “I think that goes a long way.” 

“I agree,” Sojung smiles at you. “We can spend hours here, comparing careers and talking about which one means more, brings more or requires more, but all that matters is that you’re doing something that you enjoy. And making people happy sounds like a good job to have.” 

“Says the one with a non-profit organization,” you jokingly roll your eyes, everyone joining in on the laughter. “You literally change people’s lives on a daily basis, children’s lives.” 

“I do what I can,” she humbly shakes her head. “It’s not nearly enough, but it’s something. And the two of you make people happy, one by one. I know that not everyone will remember their event planner in 5, 10 years time, but we surely will.” 

How? How can she be so kind? So good with words, so sweet and friendly? She’s the perfect girl in every way. With Yoongi’s eyes glued to you, which you can feel clearly even though you are not looking at him, you realize how much easier this would be if Sojung was unlikeable. It would have been so easy to dislike her, even hate her. You couldn’t, no matter how hard you were to try, and luckily for you and your sanity, you really don’t want to try. People like her deserve the world. 

“I too am glad we had this dinner,” Yoongi speaks up - by the time you decide it’s safe to look at him, he is looking at his half-full plate and not at you. “It’s nice to get to know you guys better, since all of us have really been focused on the planning.” 

“It’s our pleasure,” Taehyung tells him. “We don’t often get to,” he starts, only to get interrupted by his phone. “Oops, excuse me, I need to take this,” he quickly gets out of his seat and you worriedly look as he exits the restaurant. 

“I think something went wrong at the bachelor party he is organizing,” you mumble. 

“You think?” Sojung wonders. 

“Mhm,” you nod, staring at Taehyung through the restaurant glass door. “I can tell by the look on his face. Besides, the problems most often occur at bachelor parties.” 

“Why is that?” Yoongi wonders.

“Eh, usually the best man brings over strippers, since they don’t want to ask us to schedule that particular appointment,” you chuckle. “Too much alcohol, too many men. Same goes for bachelorette parties, they are a handful. Let’s just say we’re happy you’ve both decided to skip on those,” you give them a meaningful look, to which they both laugh. 

“Honestly, I thought about organizing something with my friends, but,” Sojung is interrupted just like Taehyung, the sound of her phone ringing literally startling you. “Oh, I am so sorry, I have to take this, it’s about the organization,” she quickly explains. 

“Go, go,” you urge her, watching as she runs towards the toilet, looking for a quiet place where she can take a call. You watch her with a worried glance before realizing that you are suddenly left alone with Yoongi. Taehyung is still on the phone, talking animatedly, angrily even with someone and you look away - meeting Yoongi’s eyes instantly, as the two of you have no choice but to stay awkwardly silent. 

You were doing so well earlier, you were proud of yourself. It was easy to push him away, to be able to go about your day without giving him much thought in any way other than the oh, that’s the groom of the wedding I am helping plan. At night though, when you are alone in silence, with nothing but your thoughts and music keeping you company, you do feel a bit hurt, if only for a brief period of time. You allow yourself to devote a small chunk of your night to grief for what never was and never will be, and smile at him politely the next time you have a scheduled appointment. 

After the venue selection, you haven’t been alone with him and you wish it had stayed that way. With Sojung next to him, it’s easy to focus on what matters the most. With him alone, it’s easy to remember how elated and happy you felt that day, how hopeful you were for what that impromptu coffee date could bring. 

It’s awkward and neither of you can hide it, with you looking away whenever your eyes accidentally meet and him fiddling with the tablecloth like a nervous child. The wine you’ve had can’t be of any help, either. 

Probably a second before the awkwardness became completely unbearable, Taehyung rushes back in the restaurant, looking completely panicked. “I’m so sorry about that - I need to go, ASAP. I already called an uber.” 

“Wait, what happened? Are you sober enough to deal with it? Do you need me?” 

“The best man trashed the hotel room,” he explains quickly as he gathers his stuff - coat, notebook he used to jot down random ideas while you were talking and a few pencils. “I need to get there right away, if I wasn’t sober enough moments ago, I am now. And no, I don’t need help, I can handle it. Enjoy the night and get some rest. Ugh, can you guys explain to Sojung what happened? I really need to run, the car is waiting for me already,” he is already walking towards the door. 

“Yes, don’t worry about it,” Yoongi yells after him, as loud as it is acceptable in a high-end restaurant like this. “You really are on call all the time, aren’t you?” he asks you. 

“24/7,” you confirm, sighing as you lean back into your chair. You worry, knowing how much stress this will bring to Tae. You shouldn’t have listened to him and joined him anyways - at least the two of you can sort it faster than he can alone. On the other hand, you are glad that you don’t need to deal with drunken men. “That makes it sound like we’re surgeons or something but let me tell you, shit goes down at those parties.” 

“I’m glad that the ones I’ve been to haven’t been that extreme,” he laughs. It’s awkward, all of this is awkward - the two of you alone, the forced laughter, everything. You wish that you could somehow use an eraser and completely delete the awkwardness that lingers between you, or even better, turn back time to that day and never approach him to begin with. 

Luckily for you, Sojung approaches the table, saving you from the awkwardness. “Taehyung had to leave,” Yoongi explains to her. “Bachelor party emergency. It sounded bad.” 

“Ugh, now I feel even worse,” she sighs in annoyance. “I’m afraid I have to leave you, too. Sammy called me and there is a problem with the bank transfer and I need to go and solve it, sign some papers to confirm it - I’m so sorry, but it can’t wait.” 

“Do banks work at this hour?” you are confused, seeing that from what you know, banks usually tend to be closed after 9PM. 

“They do when your father is a businessman too rich for his own good,” you can hear the irony in her voice - something that you have liked about Sojung from the get-go - she is not a typical rich girl, despite having all the conditions and money to be so. “I’m so sorry.” 

“We can call it a night then,” you suggest. “I need to call someone to drive me home anyways, it’s better if we end it here.” 

“No, no, no,” she speaks up, lifting her hands. “You guys didn’t even have a chance to finish your dinner, please stay and enjoy the rest of the night. I’ll send over a driver to pick up your car either tonight or tomorrow and you can take an Uber - what time works best for you?” 

“Sojung, I can’t let you do that...” you start. 

“You can and you will,” she rolls her eyes at you casually. “Yoongi, make sure she gets home safe and text me if someone needs to drive her, okay?” she asks, obviously realizing that he is the more likely one to cooperate between the two of you. 

“Will do,” he reassures her. “And you drive safely, please. I know you’re in a rush but… don’t rush,” he reminds her as she, similar to Tae, grabs her belongings. 

“I will. I’m so sorry about this, guys, but I hope you enjoy the rest of your night. We’ll talk tomorrow, okay?” She smiles at you and the moment you nod, she is out of the restaurant, leaving you to sit across the table with a guy who is the literal embodiment of your current ‘what could have been’. 

“I know that you probably want to get this over with as soon as humanly possible but I’d like it if you would at least finish your dinner,” Yoongi is mumbling, once again sounding nervous. If you didn’t see him drink one and only one glass of wine, you’d say it’s because of alcohol but knowing he was definitely the most sober out of the four of you, you know it’s not alcohol - it’s you. And you don’t like it. 

“Things might be a bit awkward but it’s not like I’m a demon and you a crucifix,” you joke, but the moment the words are out of your mouth, you realize how stupid it sounded. “I am okay with this. It’s a bit awkward but hey, awkwardness makes life colorful, doesn’t it?” 

“It sure does,” he mumbles. “If nothing else, at least you can rest assured that I feel horrible.” 

“That doesn’t make anything better, Yoongi,” you shake your head. “God, how could you even think that? You’re making it sound like I hate you or something.” 

“You don’t?” he asks, disbelief noticeable in his voice. 

“Of course I don’t,” you wave him off. “Come on, we’re both grown people. The situation wasn’t comfortable but it’s hardly the worst I’ve had to deal with. You’ve treated me with nothing but respect since. We’re okay. We’re good,” you reassure him. 

You aren’t lying, not one bit - the two of you are okay. Awkward, but okay. However, in your mind and in your head, things aren’t as peachy as you want to make them seem. 

“If it wasn’t sad, it’d be funny, wouldn’t it?” he asks, and you can’t tell if he’s asking you, himself or the universe. 

“What do you mean by that?” 

“Sojung knows, you know,” he tells you. You can practically feel your heart drop at that. 

“She knows that we’ve met before?” you ask, your voice shaky and your mind in complete overdrive, trying to put two and two together, trying to go back and try and see if there was a time when she acted differently around you. “Since when?” you ask him when he nods. 

“Since the day we decided on the venue,” he tells you. 

For the second time in a matter of seconds, you can practically feel your heart dropping. That would mean that Sojung knew that you were interested in her fiance the day you had a heart to heart while dress shopping. She listened to you convincing her that her feelings are valid and normal, all the while knowing that you’ve kept your mouth shut about Yoongi. 

“Oh god, I hate myself,” you blurt out, feeling as if you are going to drown in guilt. With each second that goes by, you remember how kind she was to you and you wonder if it was all an act because almost all along, she was aware of the truth. 

“No!” Yoongi snaps, startling you. “No, it’s not like that. Listen to me - she is very genuine. The amount of respect she has for you has gone through the roof. She liked you before but after finding out that we’ve met before and in which circumstances, she… Y/N, I don’t know her as a husband should know his wife but I do know her better than you do. She truly likes you and respects you even more. She was not bothered by it.” 

“Of course, I’m sure she was over the moon with happiness,” you roll your eyes. 

“I’m dead serious,” he tells you. “She appreciates honesty more than anything and she needed that truth to come from me, not from you. Seeing everything that you have done since, the way that you’ve helped us despite everything… trust me, she does not hold anything against you. Even if she wanted to, she couldn’t - you did nothing wrong.” 

“You should have told me that she knows,” you mumble, shaking your head. “Everything I’ve said to her was honest and true, I was nice because I wanted to be nice. And now she’ll think I was just kissing her ass to make sure I don’t lose the event.” 

“It’s not like that,” Yoongi tries to calm you down but it isn’t exactly working. “Sojung and I… we don’t love one another. It makes this entire situation very peculiar, we are more friends than anything else and we are… doing this while not truly wanting to do this. She understands what had happened that day and she knows that you’ve drawn the line. I’ve told her that, too - how I barely even got you to hear me out and how you were adamant that we will be nothing but professional. This conversation unfortunately breaks that.” 

“I’m glad you told her Yoongi, don’t get me wrong,” you admit. “Among the guilt, there is relief too. I just wish you had told me.” 

“Would you have changed your approach?” he asks and you stay silent. “Be nicer to her? Be ruder to her? Dropped the wedding completely? Or would it all stay the same?” 

You are either incredibly easy to figure out or he is a very good people reader. You can’t tell and you can’t afford to think about it, in all honesty. He knows the truth and so do you - nothing would have changed. You wouldn’t bring up the topic with her, nor would you change your approach. You would remain equally distant from Yoongi and professional with both. 

“You asked me that night if I would have told you,” he continues talking while you stare at your half empty plate of food, focusing on it because you know that looking him in the eyes would make it even worse. “Walking into your office that day made the wedding real. It’s been hanging above my head for a long time, to the point of me always knowing I’d end up with someone my parents pick, since I wouldn’t have the will to put up a fight. But Sojung was the one who was involved with planning - I was away from it and it made the wedding almost fictional to me. It didn’t matter who was sitting on the other side of that desk - the moment I walked into your office, the wedding became real. If someone else was there, if Taehyung was alone - if any other scenario had occurred that day, I would have told you the next time that we met. Because just like Sojung, you deserve the truth.” 

You don’t question the honesty of his statement - nothing that happened the day you met was planned. You can understand that the wedding he didn’t even want was the last thing on his mind. What he did later was wrong, texting and deepening the relationship, if only just plationicaly - but could you honestly say that you wouldn’t be tempted to do the same? If you were in his shoes, expected to marry and spend the rest of your life with someone you don’t truly love - no matter how likeable they are - could you honestly tell yourself that you wouldn’t let yourself have a prolonged moment of weakness like he did? 

No. That’s why you can no longer hold it against him. The two of you had chemistry that was off the charts - if he wasn’t expected to marry Sojung, you have no doubt in your mind that you would have gone on that dinner with him - maybe even more than one. The two of you clicked and the pull for you paired with the fear of going through something he doesn’t really want overwhelmed him. And as much as you want to hate him, hold it against him, stay salty and say that it’s all his fault - you can’t, because you understand. And you forgive. 

“I’m not sure what I can say to that,” you admit, once the silence had become too long, too uncomfortable, suffocating even. “I trust that you would do it, I’m not questioning that. And it’s a bit of a relief, because thinking that you would have played me kind of hurt. But what’s done is done. We’re okay now and I consider everything sorted. When I say that I hope you and Sojung have a long, happy life, I mean it. You both deserve it.” 

“Thank you,” Yoongi chuckles darkly. “The problem is that neither one of us wants it.” 

You know that too, you can see it in him now, you saw it in Sojung’s eyes when she was staring at her reflection in a wedding dress - they truly don’t want it, but are going through with it nonetheless. You know it but you can’t understand it. And while you can’t understand it for the life of you, you can absolutely respect it. Some people are just built differently.

“I’ve told you both - you need to communicate. You are both grown adults - incredibly smart adults, at that. I think you could go well together but it can only work if the two of you put effort in it. And that’s something I have no right to comment on, advise on or honestly, even think about because for a moment there, I honestly thought that I could fall for you,” you chuckle, laughing at just how damn unlucky you are. “And now I’m planning your wedding. But it’s okay. It’s a ‘me’ problem, isn’t it?” 

Yoongi stays silent and you are glad - him saying something could possibly hurt you more than you had already hurt yourself. The thought of a man that you like liking you back being the worst thing you’ve ever experienced is unbelievable. How could it have happened like that? Why did you approach him that day, why did you create this mess for yourself? And for him, too. Because you know his feelings aren’t clear either - you know that you are on his mind a lot more than you should be. And now you know that Sojung is aware of it, too. 

“I need to go,” you tell him, slowly putting down your napkin and pushing your chair away. “If I stay, I’ll end up saying things I’ll regret and I’m smarter than that. Don’t worry, I’ll call someone to pick me up, I won’t drive,” you interrupt him before he can even speak. “Thank you for being honest with me, Yoongi. In another life… who knows.” 

With that, you stand up and leave, taking advantage of him not facing you to approach the bar and cover the bill - that wasn’t part of the plan, he insisted on paying for dinner but your dignity wants you to cover this one, no matter how hard it’ll hit your bank account. 

Texting Sana to pick you up, you take your time on the way to the parking lot, deciding to wait for her in the safety of your car - luckily, Sana always has her phone glued to her hand, so she responds quickly, letting you know she’s already on the way. Knowing that it’ll take her at least 10 minutes to get to where you are, you allow yourself to have a moment of pure weakness - a moment that you have been avoiding for almost two weeks. 

Embarrassed, you wipe away at the tears, the streaks of mascara on your hands mocking you. In the silence of your car, you finally let your emotions out, the sadness, anger and disappointment, knowing that the mix of alcohol and a heart to heart with Yoongi had gotten the best of you. On the bright side, crying it out should help, you suppose. That’s what they say, at least. 

“Who would have thought,” Hoseok sighs dramatically as he makes himself comfortable, twirling the whiskey in his hands while grinning at him. “The Min Yoongi, getting married. What’s that one song called - First of the gang to die?” he asks. 

“Hoseok, I’m pretty sure that’s not what Morrrissey was singing about,” Yoongi laughs at his comment. “Although, the expression fits my predicament, so I won’t complain about it.” 

“Two days left of your bachelor life,” he comments - it’s funny, how Yoongi would have expected that his best friend won't be the one to help dig the hole that he is already in. Every comment of his makes it worse, although Yoongi knows that isn’t Hoseok’s intention at all. “And you decide to spend your official last night as a free man with just me and the most expensive bottle of whiskey you could find?” 

“I’m not in the mood to celebrate,” Yoongi chuckles darkly, twirling his own glass, watching the ice slowly melt and mix with the liquid. Whiskey like this shouldn’t be served on the rocks, but he couldn’t afford to care tonight - not when he plans on having more than one glass. “It’s all arranged. We don’t need to make a circus event out of it - the wedding will only have sixty guests after all, why would I need anything other than a drink and my best man for my last night of freedom?” Yoongi wonders, only just realizing how bitter he sounds. All that comes out of him these days is bitterness and it’s only becoming worse, the closer the wedding date gets. He has two full days and it still feels like a fever dream, a nightmare that he will wake up from at any moment. He keeps on hoping that reality is close, that he’ll open his eyes any second now, but it won’t happen. 

“You still can’t get that planner girl out of your head, can you?” 

Hoseok knows him better than Yoongi would like to admit - it’s hard for him not to, they’ve been friends for more than 20 years. Yoongi might be able to hide from others but whatever it is that is going on - Hoseok will recognize it immediately. “Yes,” he admits without having to think twice about it. “At first, it was even easy to push it away, when she pushed it away, too. Now I’m back to her being all I think about when I’m not thinking about the damn wedding.” 

“I can’t believe it escalated to that level,” Hoseok comments, to which Yoongi laughs. 

“Oh, I can. I just wish it didn’t. It would have been so much easier for all of us if she hadn’t approached me that day - if I didn’t continue it, asked her for coffee, for her number… She, Sojung and myself would have been dealing with a lot less drama if I had used my brain.” 

“At first I was surprised to hear how well Sojung handled it but it makes sense - she doesn’t want this any more than you do.” 

“She doesn’t,” Yoongi agrees. “But she’s also more willing to stick it through. You know, there were a few moments when I thought that she is… hoping that something happens between myself and Y/N. If something happened, it would give us both an excuse that we are too scared to find ourselves.” 

“Then why don’t you look for it?” Hoseok sounds irritated now and Yoongi can’t blame him. “Neither of you want this. You’re grown adults, for fuck’s sake! It doesn’t matter if you like someone else or not - why are both of you agreeing to something that you can avoid?”

“Because it was supposed to be easy!” Yoongi snaps, nearly spilling the liquid from the glass. Realizing how he is overreacting, he pauses to take a deep breath. “It was supposed to be easy and simple, done without thinking. I never cared enough about any woman in my life to want to oppose the idea of marrying someone my parents think is best for me. Now that I do, it’s too late and she’s planning the bloody wedding.” 

“Every relationship ends in one of two ways,” Hoseok starts again. “You either stick it through and stay together for the long run, or you break-up. There is no third option. Either stuck for life, whether in a good way or bad, or forever appart. You and Sojung could end up in both ways. On one hand, I can see you growing to love one another after you have a chance to get used to everything, after getting to know each other better and building… a life together. But at the same time, I can see you ending up an old, bitter couple that resents one another because they wasted the chance of a lifetime for something neither of you have wanted.” 

He’s right - Yoongi has gone over it himself, both in his head and outloud, countless times, both before getting engaged to Sojung and especially after meeting Y/N. 

“I sure am glad that you’ll be the one delivering the best man speech,” Yoongi deadpans. “I can’t wait to hear it, especially if it’s as hopeful as the one you’ve just given me.” 

“Yoongi, cut the crap,” Hoseok laughs at him. “You might be making the worst decision of your life and what for - to make your parents happy? We live in the 21st century, they’ll survive if the woman carrying your offspring isn’t of royal blood,” he rolls his eyes. 

“It’s not about that, you know it,” Yoongi is exasperated, tired from it all. “They just-” 

“Have a son that is a grown ass adult and runs his own company,” Hoseok interrupts him. “And who is allegedly capable of making his own decisions for himself - just as Sojung is.” 

“Are you actually suggesting that we should call off a wedding that is happening in two days? Is that your idea?” Yoongi asks, dumbfounded. 

“I’m saying that for once, both of you, or at least one of you, should do what they actually want. If that’s a wedding, perfect. If that’s to call it all off, perfect. Yoongi, I’d go through hell and back for you - you’re my best friend, you know I consider you a brother. I’m worried that you’ll be making a huge mistake in two days' time, but if that’s your call, then I’ll stand by your side as your best man while you make it.” 

“Ugh, this is not how bachelor parties are supposed to go, is it?” 

“Absolutely not,” Hoseok laughs at him. “Yoongi, you still have two days. If it doesn’t feel right, talk to Sojung. You were honest with her before and you can be honest with her now. Your family, her family, the sixty people that will be there… They all know it’s a deal, not a relationship. People would talk about it for two days and then it’ll all be over. Or, you will clear your head and actually mean the vows that you will say to Sojung. Because what’s been happening for weeks now isn’t fair to you, to Sojung, nor to your wedding planner.” 

Hoseok is right - the problem is, that is a conversation that should have happened the day Yoongi had found out that Y/N is organizing the wedding, not two days before it. Cancelling it, following his heart and not his brain, would only make it worse. Yes, it’s unfair towards all three of them, but changing it would only make it worse. It would be too much for him to do that to them, he can’t do that to them. Not to Sojung, not to Y/N. 

“It’s too late now,” Yoongi decides after a long moment of silence. “It’s already set in stone.” 

“Then here’s to the happy couple,” Hoseok lifts his glass, mockingly toasting Yoongi and his fake marriage-to-be. That’s all it is, after all - a mockery, something fake, something neither Yoongi, Sojung or any of their guests believe in. It’s all it deserves - mocking. 

And that’s just something Yoongi’s going to have to learn to live with. 

Nothing feels more wholesome than seeing all your plans come to fruition. One by one, as the flower arrangements filled up the room and white cloths covered the chairs, you could feel and actually see how it’s all coming together - all the brainstorming, the presentations and sketches, hours that spent into making it all happen - piece by piece, it’s coming together, right in front of your eyes. It’s wholesome, joyous, so incredibly fulfilling. 

Today, it doesn’t feel that way. At least not completely. Yes, you are proud of your work and you can’t help but internally awe at how beautiful everything looks but there’s an air of sadness that covers you - it follows you with every step you take, like a cloud that hangs above you, a reminder of how for the first time in your entire career, you can’t say that you are 100%, truly and genuinely happy for the soon-to-be married couple. 

At least you can say that you’ve handled it with as much dignity as humanly possible. One more day and it’ll all be over - you will be able to say that you did a good job, that you are a good wedding planner and a good person, respectful and understanding. 

“I can’t believe you pulled this off in a little more than a month,” Sojung comments as she walks over to you. “You and Taehyung really are the best planners in the business.” 

“Thank you, but let’s wait until you are married and then you can confirm it,” you suggest with a smile, knowing all too well that something might go wrong - some items might arrive late, someone might make a mess, something might break - there’s still time for things to go wrong, unfortunately. “It really is stunning though, isn’t it?” 

“It is,” she nods. “I’m glad Yoongi ended up selecting this place,” she tells you. The mention of Yoongi makes you feel instantly uncomfortable, which is ridiculous, seeing as he is in the same room as you are, only a few rows away, speaking to Taehyung. His presence didn’t make you feel entirely peachy but talking with Sojung about him - it’s worse. Knowing that she is well aware of what happened between you and Yoongi didn’t change things between you on the outside. On the inside, however, you have been drowning in guilt ever since the night Yoongi had told you that she knows. 

“Everything fits together perfectly,” you sigh, but it’s one of relief. Your heart has given up and is going through it’s grieving process, something that you wish you could stop or at least control better. But you know that everything will be easier after tomorrow, and that is why the sigh you’ve let out is not of annoyance, anger or anything negative - it’s one of relief. 

“It really does,” Sojung agrees, looking over the hall before you. It’s almost done to the point of perfection and it’s exactly the way she and Yoongi wanted it to be - elegant, pretty, but not too over the top. The flowers are your absolute favorite, along with the cream colored tiny Christmas lights that are covering the ceiling - not too many of them, of course - you’re only looking for just a dash of casualness and hipster, not an overwhelming amount of it. 

“All we need to do now is to set up the wedding arch,” you come back to your senses, not wanting to waste time aweing at the scene in front of you when you’ll have more than enough time to do it tomorrow. “We need the boys to help us with that one, I’m afraid.” 

Taehyung, Yoongi and the florist worked together to carry and center the floral wedding arch exactly where it should be, with you being their navigator. It was annoying - a little to the left, a little to the right, just a bit more forward - you could see the annoyance growing within them, making you want to jokingly yell ‘PIVOT’ just to see their reactions - you did not, as you want to live to see tomorrow. After a bit of a struggle, the arch was placed in what you deemed it’s most suitable place, front and center at the end of the aisle. 

“Well, there we have it,” you clasp your hands together, forcing yourself to smile, trying to keep it as genuine as possible. “Go and stand under it, almost-newlyweds - let’s see what it looks like!” you urge Sojung and Yoongi, making shooing motions towards the arch. 

It’s easier than you thought it would be - to see the two of them standing like that, facing one another under the beautiful floral arch. Knowing what Sojung’s dress looks like, it’s easy to imagine her in it and how perfect the moment will be - the photographs are going to be beautiful. They fit each other well and they will look absolutely amazing when it happens. 

But the longer you watch, the harder it is - you see them making eye contact, smiling awkwardly and a lump forms in your throat, no matter how hard you try not to let it get to that. It hurts, you can’t lie - but it’ll be over soon and it is for the best. 

“It looks amazing,” Taehyung comments cheerfully, saving you from having to say it yourself, whether he is aware of it or not. “It will be absolutely gorgeous, I can see you in your suit and dress - everyone will be in awe of you,” he tells them and you find the strength to nod, still smiling at them and hoping you’re not showing the sadness that is overwhelming you. 

“Wait, I want to see what it looks like,” Sojung suddenly pipes up. “Y/N, can you come here for a second? Let’s change our point of view, I want to see what it looks like as a viewer, not as a bride,” she tells you, waving you over with her hand. 

For a moment, you are frozen while your mind goes in overdrive - is she doing this on purpose? If so, does she have a malicious intention? She knows the truth, yes, you know that now, but she always acted the same towards you - always nice, always friendly. A change this sudden doesn’t make sense - you have to believe she isn’t being mean on purpose. That just doesn’t sound like the Sojung that you’ve gotten to know lately. 

You slowly walk towards them and the way she smiles at you confirms that there can’t be any bad intention behind her action. Or you are a complete fool, which you doubt but would that really be a surprise to anyone? Without much of a choice, you switch places with Sojung and stand right in front of Yoongi, staring at the ground below you, at the stairs that lead up to the arch, at Taehyung and Sojung - your eyes darting anywhere, looking and anything and everything except him. You can’t look at him - you can’t, you just can’t. 

You can hear both Sojung and Taehyung talking but you can’t decipher the words - it’s like you’ve blocked everything, every sound and every sight and decided to completely draw yourself in. Is it self-preservation? Probably. But it can only last so long and before you could stop yourself, you lift your head and finally look at Yoongi, only to find him already staring. 

There is… so much. So much unsaid in the way he looks at you, emotions that you can see swimming in his eyes, things that make his mouth open just barely, before he closes it again because he can’t. And you can’t. There are so many things that have to remain unsaid, now and forever and knowing that it’s like that, being faced with it in such a voyeuristic way, in front of your best friend, his future wife and Yoongi himself - it’s too much. It’s too much. 

“I have to....,” you start, blurting out words only to realize you don’t have an excuse. “I have to go and check something, if you’ll excuse me,” the words slip out of you before you can stop them, forming nothing but letting everyone know exactly what is happening - the shame of them knowing, realizing that they know what’s bothering you only makes it worse - you go as fast as you can towards the door, barely stopping yourself from breaking into a run down the aisle. You open the grand door quickly and slam it just as fast, not stopping in your tracks but walking away from the venue, as quickly as you can. 

The weather is ice cold and your sweater doesn’t do much to protect you from it, but you couldn’t care less. In fact, you find the cold comforting, much more comforting than the warmth of the venue - in the cold, you are alone and calm, finally able to breathe after being too scared to even do that. 

You have failed and made a scene - in front of both Sojung and Yoongi, something that never should have happened. You promised yourself, Taehyung as well, that you can do this, that you can go through this without a hitch and for a while, it was the truth. And now you want nothing more than to be as far away from this as physically possible. 

Walking all the way to the parking lot, you settle for leaning onto your car - the metal freezing through the denim of your jeans, but it’s not like you care. Your coat and bag are both inside, one of them holding the keys to your car, leaving you stranded - you can’t leave without going back and you’re not ready to go through that. 

You don’t even know if you want to leave. No, you do - you want to stay, do your job properly and finish the task that you’ve started, like the professional you have pretended to be. Oh, how well you pretended, for weeks. You were even able to fool yourself. And here you are now, in the parking lot, on the verge of tears. For the second time, too - only the first time around, after that damn dinner, you didn’t have the energy to fight the tears. 

Now, you do. You don’t know why - it could be the remnants of your dignity that are preventing you from showing them that you felt so bad, you were brought to tears. Taking deep breaths, you slowly calm yourself down, repeating over and over again in your head that you only have to survive less than 24 hours of this and then, you’ll be fully free. 

“Y/N!” you hear a voice call out for you, your head snapping up in surprise. You figured that if anyone was going to come after you, it would be Taehyung - the last person you expected to see is Sojung, running towards you in distress, your coat in her hands. “You will freeze to death!” she comments worriedly as she approaches you. 

“I’m okay,” you shake your head. “I like the cold.” 

“You will get sick, you can’t be out here like this,” she insists, lifting up your coat. Not having the strength or will to argue with her on it, you slide your hands into the sleeves and let her help you put your coat on. The distressed look is still present on her face - for the first time ever, you see her in what you can only describe as panic. “I am so sorry, Y/N.”

“What?” you are confused. “Wait, what for?” 

“I… wasn’t thinking straight,” she sighs, closing her eyes. Now you know it’s not distress - it’s guilt. The look on her face - pure guilt. “I just wanted to see what it looks like from a guests point of view, I didn’t even think of how stupid it was, how unfair it was towards you, I-” 

“Sojung,” you silence her. It’s unusual but not entirely awkward - both of you are speaking about something that you refuse to name, you are walking around it while being fully aware of its presence - and it’s not working. At least not anymore. “You have absolutely nothing to be sorry for. I understand and I know what you meant by it. It’s me who should be sorry,” you point out, once again feeling the wave of guilt approaching. “That was incredibly unprofessional of me and you do not deserve that.” 

“Y/N, stop it,” Sojung sighs. “You’re human. And this is… a very shitty situation,” she decides after a moment of pondering - it makes the both of you laugh. A very shitty situation, indeed. “I wish that things weren’t like they are, I really do. I’m sorry that it’s hindering you in doing your job and I’m sorry that… this is something that… constantly brings negativity to you.” 

“It’s not like that,” you shake your head, offering her a sad smile. “I love my job and you still are a joy to work with. The… shitty situation is far from simple but it’s manageable. That was  just a moment of weakness, nothing more. Everything will go according to plan from now on,” you reassure her - and it’s not empty. You believe in it. After feeling so humiliated by your own weakness, you will do whatever it takes, move heaven and hell if you must, just not to let it show again. A moment like this will not happen again. 

“We’re making a mistake,” Sojung starts laughing - it’s not a fun laughter, it’s one of panic. “We’re all making a huge mistake. Me, you, Yoongi - all of us, together. And why? Why are we doing this? Why am I marrying him? Why is he marrying me? Why are you planning our wedding? Why do we consciously keep doing things that… don’t bring us joy?” 

You are taken aback by her sudden rant, never seeing that kind of negativity from her before. It makes sense though, she was hiding it the same way you were. And still, none of that negativity is directed towards you. Even now, even now, she is not directing anything ill to you. And at this point, you’re starting to think that you might deserve it. 

“I don’t know,” you shrug, answering honestly. “It’s easier than the alternative? We don’t have an alternative? We’re too scared?” you throw out guesses, random guesses that you don’t really believe in. “It doesn’t matter anymore. We’re still sticking to what we have decided to do. And tomorrow, a new life will start for all three of us.” 

“Will it, though?” Sojung asks. “Will it really?” 

“I don’t know,” you admit. “I can only hope, ‘cause what else do I have?” you laugh awkwardly. Silence falls between the two of you and you take a few deep breaths. “Thank you for speaking with me about this, for coming after me. Thank you for everything, really. I promise you, nothing like what happened earlier will happen again.” 

“Y/N-” Sojung starts  but stops talking immediately when you shake your head. 

“No, it’s all good. We’re good,” you insist, despite knowing that she doesn’t believe you - despite knowing all too well that it’s a lie that not even you are buying at this point. “Let’s go back inside and wrap it up, huh?” you start walking before she can stop you. 

“Y/N-” she tries to speak with you again, but you stop in your tracks, turn around to face her and offer her a genuine smile. You like her - if the situation was the least bit different, you could see yourself being friends with her. But tomorrow, she will be his wife and being close to her would imply being near him and that’s not something you can handle. That being said, when you smile at her, although your smile is sad, it’s genuine, 100% genuine. 

“It’ll all be okay,” you reassure her. “Let’s go back inside.” 

This time around, she doesn’t try to stop you. You walk back inside the venue, with her by your side, both of you acting as if nothing ever happened. 

You avoid Yoongi’s eyes for the rest of the day. 

Two more hours. That’s all it takes. Two more hours and it’ll be over and done with. Well, the actual wedding - the celebration of it will last longer but at that point, you’re guessing that it won’t matter. Or, you’ll simply find out when it happens. 

It was easy to not think about what’s going to happen - you were busy, extremely busy, already at the venue at 6AM after a sleepless night full of tears. Your make-up and outfit was perfect, planned and executed to make you look as professional as possible and hide the things you don’t want others to see. 

Tae didn’t get to question you but that’s all on luck - he was as busy as you are, rushing from room to room, not having a chance to stop and grill you when he had to worry about helping Seokjin move the cake to the refrigerator. The whole morning, the two of you were running all over the place, in opposite directions, either yelling at each other from across the room or on the phone, trying to coordinate your tasks and positions, all while periodically checking in on Sojung and Yoongi - you on her, and Taehyung on him, because you know better than to make that kind of mistake. 

Everything was going according to plan but you can never be too sure - you counted the chairs three times, despite knowing that the number of them won’t change - for all you know, someone could have taken one to climb up and decorate the ceiling and hadn’t returned it to it’s rightful place. Wedding days are hard, but today, it’s easy - you have so much work, you don’t even have time to think, much less feel and for that, you will be eternally grateful. 

“Okay, the hall is ready,” you talk to yourself, looking through what you call the back door - one that leads to a long hallway that which then branches at the end into two separate rooms - one for Sojung and her maid of honor, the other for Yoongi and his best man. You scan the grand hall once, twice, three times, making sure that everything is in the exact place that it should be. The closest family members of both Sojung and Yoongi arrived moments ago, with Taehyung greeting them, introducing himself and taking them down the aisle to their assigned seats. Of course, they can still move around and mingle - they likely will, once other guests start to arrive, but them being here makes any possible trouble increase tenfold - whatever might happen, if it happens in front of them, it’ll be harder to solve. “Flowers, there. Lights, there. Arch, perfect. White covers, there. Mistletoes all over the place, there. Candles, there. Candles - not yet lit. Fire hazard. No bueno - we don’t want that. Will be lit minutes before,” you talk out loud. 

“They say that talking to yourself is the first sign of madness,” a voice speaks behind you, startling you to the point of almost making you jump out of your own skin. You recognize the man immediately - it’s Hoseok, Yoongi’s best man. You haven’t met him formally but you have seen him arriving with Yoongi and recognized his name from countless lists that you have been scanning in the past few weeks. He’s incredibly handsome - the suit fitting him like it’s tailor made - and in fact, it might be. A bright smile is prominent on his beautiful face - he is by far the happiest looking person on the premises. 

“You just cost me at least 5 years of my life, best man,” you frown at him, a hand on your chest as your fast beating heart calms down. 

“Sorry about that,” he chuckles, as charming as one can be. “You already seem to know who I am - may I know who you are?” he asks you, a slight hint of flirtation audible in his voice. 

“I’m the wedding planner,” you reply. His reaction - the widening of his eyes as realization comes to him would be funny, if the situation isn’t as sad as it is. 

“Oh,” he says and you’re pretty sure it sounds more meaningful than he intended it to be. 

“Yes, oh,” you chuckle awkwardly. “This has to be the best ‘OH’ I’ve ever experienced,” you joke, hoping that the humor will make it easier for you and brighten the situation at least a little bit. On surface level, it works - Hoseok starts laughing. 

“You’re funny,” he comments. You don’t know how to answer that, simply nodding with a kind smile. “And you and your colleague have done a great job. The venue looks amazing.” 

“Thank you very much,” you thank him. “I’m about to go check on the bride but how is the groom doing, with two hours left to go?” you ask. It’s not a trick, nor are you hoping that he will read between the lines - there’s nothing there to find. You simply want to know how Yoongi is doing without actually seeing him. You want to make sure that it’s all good and that he is doing okay but not put yourself through the torture of seeing him ready to be married - you will only face that view once he stands at the end of the aisle, and you plan to look away. 

“He’s…” Hoseok struggles to find the right words. Somehow, you once again ended up making everything worse for you - that was not your original plan. “He is doing okay. I mean, we all know what’s going on here, so I’d say he’s as okay as he can be.” 

“Maybe that’s all he needs to be,” you shrug, but you know that your pretend reluctance isn’t fooling him - the way he eyes you up is proof enough. “If you’ll excuse me, I’m going to check on Sojung and see if she needs any help,” you tell him, making a run for it before he can stop you. You don’t believe that he would, but you’d rather not leave it to chance. 

Before you turn left, to her room, you look at the door on the right and pause, thinking, wondering, if this is your last chance to tell him what you want to tell him. But what do you want to tell him? Is it even something you know? You wish it was different? You hope he and Sojung have a good life? You regret ever approaching him? All of those are true and none of them need to be said or heard. You’ve had your chance to speak your mind and you have closed that door. You’ve closed that door the day he walked into your office and you’ve locked it the night you left him alone in the restaurant. 

Forcing a smile for the nth time, you open the door, walking inside quickly to see Sojung with her sister - she is already fully dressed, veil placed on her long, curled locks, and a face full of makeup done so well it almost looks inconspicuous - the only reason you know about the large amount of makeup that is on her is because you’ve gotten used to watching her bare face in the past weeks and honestly, she’s prettier without it. But the whole getup - the dress, hair, face, veil - it makes her one of the most beautiful brides that you have ever seen. 

“You look absolutely stunning,” you tell her, feeling a sudden wave of emotion - but this one isn’t negative. In a very unusual way, you have grown fond of Sojung, and seeing her like this makes you feel happy - almost enough to mask the sadness completely. “Everything looks perfect outside, I wish you could see it,” you tell her, knowing that the last picture in her mind is of the almost fully decorated hall - you’ve done more in the meantime. 

“Thank you,” she tells you, honesty seeping out of every word. You exchange smiles, both a bit sadder than they should be. Her sister steps aside, allowing the two of you to meet in the middle of the room and when Sojung reaches for your hand, you accept it gladly. “It doesn’t cut it, a simple thank you isn’t enough to express the gratitude that I feel for everything that you’ve done for us. For me. All of it.” 

“Don’t you dare make me cry, Sojung,” you warn her through laughter, fighting back the tears the same way she is. In the weirdest way possible, you have bonded and the moment you’re in now is so raw and genuine, it’s impossible to fight off the tears completely. “You make the most beautiful bride and I hope you enjoy every part of your wedding.” 

“Now you’re going to make me cry,” she chuckles awkwardly, blinking away the tears, looking away from you. You lock eyes with her sister, who observes your interaction but says nothing, although she does have a strange expression on her face. She knows that you and Sojung get along well, but you’re not sure if she’s aware of… everything that has transpired. 

“Can we go outside?” she asks. “Like, to grab some fresh air? It’s all a bit overwhelming and I know that there’s a back door-” she starts. 

“Yes, of course,” you nod. “Do you need a coat? I don’t want you to freeze to death,” you point out, knowing that the dress doesn’t have thousands of layers and the last time you were outside, it was snowing. But Sojung shakes her head, grabbing a hold of your hand again and making her way towards the corner of the room, towards the door that leads to the garden that is normally used for spring weddings. You don’t even try to stop her, not even in an attempt to prevent from getting the ends of her dress wet with snow. 

Luckily, you don’t walk directly into the snow covered grass - the sides of the venue are covered in cobblestone, one that matches the walls. Sojung is safe, so long as she doesn’t slip and you’ve made sure that she is wearing flats - one too many accidents with brides in high heels have happened in your career - in fact, ‘wear flats’ might just be your number one advice to any bride-to-be. 

“Oh this is much better,” she takes a deep breath, her exhale visible from how cold it is. 

“Are you sure you don’t want a coat or something?” you check again, looking around like the fool you are, as if you might find a rogue coat lying hooked on a window or something. Something catches your eye and your head snaps to the right - right on time to see him. 

He’s away from you, almost completely with his back turned - next to him is Hoseok and the two are engaged in a conversation, keeping you safe from him turning around and seeing you. You and his bride to be. 

The world stops. For you, the world stops moving, everything stops and all you can see is Yoongi, wearing his suit, nervously swaying from leg to leg, completely oblivious to you being able to see him - completely oblivious of his future wife standing right behind you, already in her wedding dress. The world stops and you could swear that for a moment, so does your heart. 

As fast as it has stopped, it starts moving again - faster, with you unable to balance it, think clearly or make conscious decisions - there’s only one thought in your mind - you need to leave. In the speed of light, you turn to face Sojung, startling her with how fast you move - she had her eyes glued to Yoongi as well. 

“Sojung, I can’t,” you gasp, realizing that you might start hyperventilating. “I can’t stay. I can’t be here. I can’t. I just can’t. I’m so sorry but I can’t.” 

“Y/N, breathe,” Sojung grabs you by the shoulders. “Breathe and calm down, please. You don’t have to. You don’t have to stay. I understand. We will all understand. If you need to go then go, but now I need you to pause and calm yourself down because you’re on the verge of what looks like a mental breakdown and I don’t want that to happen to you.”

It’s usually you who runs that speech and brides that are panicking - with the tables turned, you can only imagine the state you’re in - if you look anything like the brides you have calmed down over and over again, no wonder Sojung is mildly panicking. 

“I thought that I could but I can’t,” you admit in a defeated gasp, no longer able to hold back tears. “I feel… I just feel. And I can’t. I’m so sorry Sojung, fuck, I’m so sorry!” “Stop apologizing,” she orders you in a calm town. “There is nothing you should be apologizing for. I understand and if you need to leave, I want you to leave. You need to do what’s best for you. If that’s leaving, then go. But I need to make sure that you can get home safely because I don’t think you can drive.” 

“I can,” you reassure her. “I’ll calm down before driving. I just… I need to go.” 

Sojung looks troubled for a moment but what she does next only makes the tears flow faster - she pulls you in for a hug, not caring if she wrinkles her dress or if your running mascara ruins her veil. She hugs you tightly and you let her hold you, the moment of weakness taking over you. You don’t know how long you stay in her embrace but when you pull away, you are no longer crying or breathing heavily. 

“I will never be able to thank you enough,” you manage to utter. 

“Neither will I be able to thank you,” she sounds sad, perhaps even sadder than you. You must be so pathetic and sad to watch, you can’t blame her. “Just… be safe. We can talk later. Go and put yourself first, please. I don’t want to see you broken, Y/N. I don’t.” 

“Thank you,” this time around, you are reaching for her hand and squeezing it. You hold it for a long time before finally letting go and walking away, in the opposite direction from Yoongi - if he is even outside anymore. In hurried steps that quickly turn into a run, you beeline towards your car, thanking your lucky stars that you’ve kept your car keys in the pocket of your blazer this time around. Your phone, too, which you are going to have to use soon because Taehyung needs an explanation and an apology - a thousand apologies, to be more specific. But none of that matters this second - all you can focus on is getting to your car and driving away as fast as possible. 

No matter what he did, Yoongi couldn’t stop his leg from bouncing - his nerves were getting the best of him, that’s for sure. He went to get some fresh air, paced around the room a dozen times, had a strong drink, both talked to Hoseok and stayed silent for a long time. He did it all by the book, even going so far as to do what Y/N jokingly called yoga breathing - deep breaths, in and out, until he finally feels calm again - she’d say it works like a charm with nervous couples. 

None of it worked. Absolutely none of it - he was still nervous, noticeably so, and it doesn’t help that everyone else around him seems to feel the same way. His energy definitely bounced over to Hoseok, turning his usual bright smile to a frown, while Taehyung is as far from his chirpy self as possible. Yoongi has seen him serious before, angry even, if only for a fraction of a second - but he has never seen him this nervous - he checks his phone every other second and when Yoongi is not the one pacing across the room, it’s Taehyung.

Yoongi has ignored it for long enough, but now he’s making him feel even worse, if that’s even possible. “Taehyung, what is happening?” Yoongi’s voice startles him - he looks at him wide-eyed, stopping in his tracks in the middle of the room. “Is everything okay out there?” 

In the few weeks that Yoongi has known him, he has realized that Taehyung is very direct and honest, speaking his mind and expressing his opinion with ease, even though he has a talent of picking his words carefully. This is the first time Yoongi sees him not having an answer ready - he looks puzzled, worried and perhaps even a bit panicked. “Everything is okay,” Teahyung reassures him. “The guests are arriving, everything's in its place, the bride is ready - all is good.” 

He is lying to him - it’s clear as day. Yoongi exchanges looks with Hoseok and he silently confirms it - both of them tend to be good people readers, but Hoseok never fails - if his look tells Yoongi that Taehyung is lying, he is lying. The only question is - about what? 

“Taehyung, are you sure?” Yoongi asks again, hoping for an honest answer this time around. 

“Positive,” he tells him. “Sojung is ready, everything is perfectly decorated, as far as I know everyone’s happily mingling and waiting for the ceremony. Even the carrot cake top tier on your cake looks amazing,” Taehyung cheekily adds, probably trying to distract him. 

It fails - miserably. He mentioned Sojung, the venue, the guests, the cake - all the things that are the most important. The one thing, or to be more specific, person, that he did not mention is Y/N. And that would explain why he’s as jittery as he is now. 

“Where’s Y/N?” 

Bullseye. All of a sudden, his face drops and so does his act. 

“Yoongi, she left,” Taehyung admits, his voice low and somber. “She couldn’t, she just couldn’t. Sojung told me that she had made sure she was calm enough to drive and Y/N texted me. Everything is okay and according to plan but she’s not here. She couldn’t take it.” 

How could she handle it? No, why would she handle it? Why would she stand there and watch him marry another woman when she knows he doesn't want to do it, when she knows that he has spent the better part of the last month ignoring the feelings he has for her. Why would she stand there and watch Yoongi marry someone else when she is definitely not the only one who… feels something. Yoongi can’t and he won’t name it - he wouldn’t do it even if he could - but what he feels for her is more than anything he has ever felt for Sojung. And they both know it. 

“I need to talk to her!” Yoongi jumps up immediately. 

“Talk to whom?” Taehyung is wide-eyed, completely panicking. 

“Y/N.” 

“Dude, you can’t leave your own wedding,” Hoseok jumps onto his feet, practically running towards Yoongi, the hand on Yoongi’s shoulder squeezing him tightly. “Are you completely out of your mind? You’re supposed to be getting married in less than half an hour - if you wanted to run, you should have done it a lot earlier, Yoongi!” 

“I am not running anywhere!” Yoongi snaps at him, annoyed at the way he is berating him. Yes, it’s in his best interest but now’s not the time that he can focus on it. “I need to speak to Sojung, right now,” he tells them, already walking towards the door - both Taehyung and Hoseok try to stop him, yelling words that he can’t understand. “Guys, I have to!”

“You can’t see her in a wedding dress, it’s bad luck!” Taehyung gives Yoongi his final attempt to stop him - to that, he laughs. 

“With the luck we’ve had so far, I doubt it would change much,” Yoongi shrugs, opening the door despite their protests. Walking quickly across the hallway, he opens the door to Sojung’s room without bothering to knock, rudely scaring both her and her sister - there is relief in Sojung’s eyes as she turns to look at him. 

“Yoongi,” she sighs, not moving from where she is standing. Her sister rushes out of the room, probably knowing that they need privacy. Seeing Sojung in a wedding dress is borderline painful - she is gorgeous, absolutely stunning. It hurts to see her like that, a smart, kind and beautiful woman, ready to marry him - and it is not enough. 

Yoongi hates himself for it - it would have been so much easier if he could have just fallen for Sojung. He had every reason to - she is literally perfect. He likes her, she is amazing - but he knows he doesn’t love her and the chances of him ever loving her are… probably non-existent. And having her know that as well makes it so much worse. 

“I can’t,” Yoongi sighs, those words releasing what feels like the weight of the entire world off his shoulders. “Y/N left and I can’t. I’m in love with her.” 

If there is a hell, he will burn in it for all of eternity for saying this to her. He can’t even look her in the eyes - but she can look at him. Slowly, she walks towards him, Yoongi looking at the skirt of her dress until she puts a hand on his cheek. Gently and slowly, she lifts his head up, making him look at her. There is a smile on her face but it is not one of sadness - it’s one of relief. 

“I know,” she whispers. “I know. And we can’t do this. We can’t do this. Not to us, not to her.” 

“I am so sorry,” Yoongi finds himself struggling to speak, choking up with emotions he didn’t even know he felt - guilt, worry, sadness and relief, all at once, at full force. “I am so sorry.” 

“You don’t have to be,” she shakes her head, suddenly chuckling but Yoongi sees the tears in her eyes. “I don’t want this either. I like you, I like you a lot but I don’t love you. And we are not meant for each other. Even if Y/N did not become a part of our lives, we still wouldn’t be meant for each other. And I know the two of you are in love. It hurts so much to watch it - but only because I want to see both of you happy. I want to be happy, too. It doesn’t hurt me because I envy her - it hurts me because I know we’re making a mistake.” 

“How did we let it get this far?” Yoongi asks, leaning his head into her hand as she slowly caresses the skin of his cheek. “How were we this stupid?” 

“We thought we were doing the right thing,” she tells him and she’s right - that’s the only reasonable explanation. “And we were both cowards, waiting for the other one to end it. But we can’t escape it anymore, we can’t be cowards. We need to end it - together.” 

“Are you sure of what you’re saying?” Yoongi asks, his heart going into overdrive as he realizes that his wildest dreams might become a reality - he might have a way of escaping his own personalized hell - not only that, but Sojung can escape hers, too. “Are we really going to do this? Are we really just… going to not have the wedding?” 

“I don’t want to marry you,” she chuckles. “No offence!” she adds quickly, realizing how that could sound to an innocent bystander - but to him, it was music to his ears. 

“None taken,” he laughed, the former feeling of the weight of the entire world falling off his shoulders happening again. Relief washes over him. “We’re ending this? Right here, right now?” 

“Hell yes,” she laughs, taking off the veil from her hair, looking happier than Yoongi ever remembers seeing her. She takes off the engagement ring, too - the one that they had picked together, as his proposal was nothing more than a conversation where they agreed to go through with what their parents want - there was nothing romantic about it, not that he is the type of person to get on one knee anyways. Smiling, Sojung presses the engagement ring into the palm of his hand. “Let’s cancel this - go out there, tell everyone it’s over and that they should enjoy the party. Then I’ll go get a massage and you go get your girl.” 

Not knowing what else to do, he pulls Sojung into a bear hug, the both of them laughing - in these past few minutes, they've had more fun than they’ve ever had together - all it took was to decide to cancel the damn wedding. Hand in hand, the engagement ring squeezed between them, they walk out of the room - Sojung’s sister, Hoseok and Taehyung are all in the hallway, with Taehyung looking like he’s about to drop dead out of shock. 

“Yeah, we’re cancelling the wedding,” Yoongi announces, smiling brightly. 

“YOU’RE WHAT?!” all three of them yell at the exact same time. 

“We’re cancelling the wedding,” Sojung laughs. “We don’t want this. We really don’t, we both have better things to do and we don’t want to trap ourselves in a loveless marriage. It might have worked for some but we’d rather not test the theory.” 

“Are you sure?” her sister asks, the calmest one out of the three of them - it’s obvious this was something Sojung talked to her about - Yoongi should have realized sooner that she didn’t want this any more than he did, and was silently begging him to end it. 

“Absolutely positive,” she smiles brightly at her. 

“If that’s what you want,” Hoseok shrugs. “It’s completely crazy but neither of you has ever been particularly sane, if I’m being honest.” 

“But what about the wedding?” Taehyung manages to stutter, his words reminding them of all the effort that both he and Y/N had put into making everything perfect - that’s the only part of this decision that bothers Yoongi, the only negative side to it. “What do you say to the people? What do we do with all the… How? How do we? Why? What?” 

“Oh, the ceremony is cancelled, not the party,” Sojung laughs - she seems to have a solution to everything. “You can all eat and have fun and dance and celebrate us being free. It’s all going to go according to plan, except the two of us won’t be here. Get drunk. Throw away the carrot cake. Have the best Christmas Eve party ever.” 

“You do know that you have an entire room of guests waiting for you to get married, right?” Taehyung asks, still wide-eyed and shocked.

“Yes,” Yoongi nods. “And Y/N is not there. That says a lot. So we will say it ourselves and people will either understand or they won’t. But we’re doing this.” 

“Let’s go,” Sojung pulls him by the hand before anyone can try to stop them - not that anyone would. Hoseok and Sojung’s sister have both given up and while Taehyung still looks like he’s about to faint, he does not move to stop them. 

They walk, almost run, opening the door that leads to the main hall - at once, all the heads turn towards them and Yoongi can practically see eyes widen as they realize that they are walking hand in hand - this is not how things are supposed to go. Some people stand up, others start whispering but he and Sojung ignore it all, walking to the wedding arch and standing beneath it - both of them are struggling to hide their smiles. 

“Everyone, there’s been a change of plans,” Sojung announces, letting go of his hand - Yoongi still keeps a hold on her engagement ring, placing it in the pocket of his suit. “We’re not getting married. Not now, not ever!” she has to raise her voice in order to be heard over the simulations gasps that fifty or so people have released. Yoongi very purposefully avoids looking at his parents - he knows he’ll get an earful about it later, but he doesn't care. And he also knows very well they will respect his decision. Eventually. 

“We don’t love each other,” Yoongi says, shrugging. “We’re great friends and that’s it. We don’t love each other and we don’t want to get married. So, we’re not gonna do it. We’re sorry that we’ve let it get this far and that you had to drive all the way here - you get to keep your presents and money envelopes - either return them, keep them or re-gift them. Stay, eat well, dance all night long and celebrate Sojung and myself - celebrate us individually. Us doing what we actually want and not what we think we’re supposed to do.” 

People are still talking, Yoongi’s mother even standing up and slowly approaching him - Sojung sees it too and turns to face him. “Go. Now. Go and get her.” 

Yoongi doesn’t have to be told twice. He kisses Sojung on the cheek, both of them laughing as he turns and rushes out of the room, breaking out into a run - Hoseok offers him a supportive hit on the shoulder as he runs out, hearing the sounds of Taehyung and Sojung reassuring everyone that yes, it’s really happening and no, it’s not a bad thing at all. He feels bad about leaving Sojung to deal with it but she has pushed him herself - she knows that he needs to get to Y/N and that he needs to do it as fast as possible. 

Sitting down in the driver’s seat of his car and starting it, driving away from the venue and from a life he was never supposed to live feels liberating - it’s the first good decision that Yoongi has made in a long time. A very long time, really. The last time he made a good choice was when he accepted Y/N’s help in that shop. 

He can only hope that he will have a second chance at making the right decisions with her. 

You need to move. It’s something that’s been on your mind for a while - you have outgrown this apartment a long time ago and now, staring at the crack on the ceiling - not a particularly large or dangerous one but a crack nonetheless - you decide that that will be your next goal. 

Make a home for yourself. Maybe somewhere closer to the office - closer to Taehyung, too. But also not on one of the main streets - you don’t want the noise to disrupt the peace. 

Lying on the floor in your pajamas, staring at the crack in your living room ceiling and thinking about finding a new place is how you’re dealing with… everything. You don’t even know how to name it, or which moment to point out. It’s how you’re dealing with the wedding happening, and with you running away from it, as well as with the notion that you will eventually likely have to explain to several people why you had run away - and you do not want to think about those pending conversations. No, you don’t want to have those conversations at all. 

It’ll all go well, of that you’re sure of. You’ll just have to… apologize to Tae and step in to do him a big favor in the future. The rest can be postponed, hopefully. 

A knock on the door confuses you, shaking you away from the daze you’ve thrown yourself into - you quickly look at the clock, realizing that it’s no way it’s Taehyung - the ceremony must have finished by now but the party is still ongoing and he’d have to be there. You decide to ignore it, not wanting to deal with people right now but as the doorbell rings, you sigh, admitting that it might be important and begrudgingly make your way to the door. 

Opening it quickly, you are frozen in place as you face Yoongi - in his suit with perfect hair, groom Yoongi. Blinking rapidly, for a moment you wonder if you are hallucinating - but no, you are not, he is here and breathless, probably from running up the stairs all the way to your fifth floor apartment. He’s here - full groom. 

“What the fuck are you doing here?” you blurt out quickly. 

“The wedding is cancelled,” he tells you. 

“The wedding is WHAT?!” you yell at him. 

“Cancelled. Not happening. Called off.” 

“Oh no, it’s not!” you shake your head, now in a full blown panic. “No, it’s absolutely not! We are going back there right now!” you yell as you try to put on your sneakers but you are shaking, your whole body is shaking and you can barely figure out which sneaker goes on which foot. “We’re going back there right now and you are getting married!” 

“Y/N, what are you doing?” he asks and you laugh at the stupidity of his question. 

“Driving you back to the fucking venue,” you finally manage to put on your shoes, looking back to grab your coat, as well. “You’re going to get married and repay Sojung for this bullshit, I don’t care how.” 

“Y/N, stop,” he puts up his hands in the air and you give him a second - one second alone, one second to explain himself before you drag him by the arm and force him into your car. “Sojung wanted to cancel it too. We’ve reached that decision together.” 

‘Wait, what?” 

“We talked,” he sighs, looking a little dejected - whether it’s because the wedding is cancelled or because you’re asking too many questions, you can’t be sure. “We finally talked and were honest with each other. It was a mutual decision and she was as happy about it as I am. She texted me that she’s having fun at the dinner - everyone is, actually.” 

“Huh?” you can’t ask anything other than simple questions, still trying to wrap your mind around what he is telling you - it’s insane, it’s completely insane. 

“Y/N,” he laughs nervously. “We’re not getting married. Sojung and I dumped each other and told everyone to have fun and celebrate us not getting married. Everyone is okay - well, maybe not Taehyung, I think he almost had a heart attack.” 

“Oh god,” you realize the chaos he is in - the chaos he is in alone. “I need to go, I need to help him. He needs to make sure that everything is taken care of, that what can be refunded can get refunded, that-”

“Y/N!” Yoongi yells your name, shutting you up immediately. “He and Sojung are taking care of it. And according to Sojung, they’re having fun. Can you please stop panicking and let me finally tell you that I’m in love with you, now that I finally can?” 

“You’re what?” 

“In love with you,” he repeats himself. “Way more than I should be, probably. You… have taken permanent residence in my head - you’re all I think about, day and night. I’ve felt so much guilt about everything and being free of it now makes me realize how stupidly in love with you I am. And while I know you’ve felt something for me, while I know that we have chemistry, the wedding being cancelled doesn’t mean I expect anything of you. You can close the door in my face if that’s what you want to do. I’ll go and leave you be. But if you’re going to do that, you can only do it after hearing that I am in love with you.” 

And just like that, your head is no longer spinning, you are no longer shaking. You stare at him, the irony of him professing his feelings for you in his wedding suit, and you can tell that he is being honest. It’s so easy to see it with him - it’s easy to know that he means what he says and that if you tell him to walk away, he will do just that. 

“What… what do you expect me to say?” you manage to utter. 

“Anything,” he laughs nervously. “Tell me to leave, tell me you feel the same way for me too, tell me you’ll think about it - anything. Or even leave me hanging - after the shit I’ve put you through, it would serve me right.” 

“You didn’t put me through anything,” you shake your head. “I could have handed over the wedding to another planner - I’ve chosen to organize it and put myself through it. You made me organize a perfect wedding that’ll never happen,” you laugh, sounding distraught. 

“God, you really are a complete workaholic - that’s the point you want to focus on?” he asks, and while he sounds annoyed, he is smiling at you, a smile that tells you that it’s not half as annoying as it is endearing. Which is crazy, but it’s not like you’re entirely sane either. 

“I’m sorry, I’m wired like that,” you whine. “Seokjin even made you a carrot cake tier!” 

“And I’m sure someone from the 50something people there will enjoy it,” he laughs. 

“Now what do we do?” you ask him, cowardly throwing it over to him. “You and Sojung are over? And neither of you is unhappy about that.” 

“Y/N, both of us were silently begging the other to be the one to quit it,” he sighs, reaching for his pocket - your eyes widen when he pulls out the engagement ring that was on Sojung’s hand - the same hand that you have held earlier today. “I’ll exchange this into a nice pair of earrings for her or something. She still deserves to have it. But we’re good. She told me to come here. I told her that I’m in love with you and she knows. It’s all over.” 

“Except this?” you ask, sheepishly. 

“Except this,” he confirms. 

“And what do you want to do about that?” 

“Start over?” he suggests. “Not in a way that we pretend the last couple of weeks had never happened but… maybe go back to the Yoongi and Y/N that laughed in that coffee shop and texted all night while they should have been sleeping to be rested for all the meetings they had scheduled for tomorrow? If you want to?” 

If you want to. The funniest part is, you don’t know if you want to. 

Up until this exact moment, it was never an option for you. And even thinking about it was venturing into dangerous territory, so you’ve avoided it. Not once did you stop and think about this particular scenario because it… was impossible. Until today. 

If you want to. Do you want to? You don’t know and that’s the closest thing to the truth that you can come up with. What you do know, however, is that you don’t want this to stop. You do want him in your life - and maybe, possibly, try. 

Fuck it. You had the balls to approach him then, you’ll have the balls to risk it all now - before you can give yourself a chance to overthink and chicken out, you are grabbing him by the tie and pulling him closer to you. He stumbles into your apartment but seems to easily catch your drift because the moment he is standing stable, his lips are on yours. 

It’s like a firework had exploded - so much pent up emotion, from both your parts, finally surfacing, finally becoming real and able to be enjoyed. The kiss is a mix of relief, sadness and impatience - before you knew it, you were pushing the suit off his shoulders, in a rush to get him out of his clothes - he, on the other hand, was too preoccupied with his hands squeezing your ass as he all but slammed you into the hallway wall. 

“I take it that you don’t need time to consider my offer?” he chuckles, planting kisses down the side of your neck, laughing even more at your struggle to get out of your sneakers. 

“You haven’t offered me anything,” you point out, laser focused on removing his tie as quickly as possible. “You just showed up on my door and told me your wedding is cancelled and you’re in love with me. I didn’t hear an offer there at all.” 

“Y/N,” he gives you a warning glare. 

“Yoooongi,” you mock him, laughing as you start unbuttoning his shirt, not wanting to waste time and wanting to get your hands on him, acting like the two of you have a ticking time bomb above your head when in reality, you have all the time in the world. “Let’s just… fuck now and talk later, okay?”

“You don’t have to tell me twice,” he announces before biting your bottom lip, proceeding to make you let out a loud laugh when he lifts you up with ease,letting you hook your legs around him while he squeezes your ass. He does so with ease, which you find amusing, as you did not imagine Yoongi being particularly strong. Today, he’s full of surprises. 

“The door at the end of the hallway,” you mumble, preoccupied with kissing him - other than helping him navigate his way to your bedroom, you do not want to talk - words are useless and are a waste and the only thing you want to do now is feel. 

And feel you do. 

His skin, incredibly soft to touch and pale, save from the blush in his cheeks - his rough lips, rough from the cold and not in the way he kisses you - he kisses you like he means it, like he has wanted to do this all along, like the only thing he ever wants to do is just kiss you. 

As you run your hands through his hair, you smile at the softness - despite being bleached and colored at least twice since you’ve met him, it too is soft, just like every other part of him. Every other part of him except his cock. 

You feel every inch of his hardness when you grab it in a firm hold, first over the fabric of his pants and then directly, sneaking your hand inside to wrap your fist around it. Sounds that escape him with every move of your hand, especially as you circle around the tip - make you want to do more, move faster, finish him quicker or perhaps prolong his misery. From what your hand can feel, he has a beautiful cock, thick enough to make you swallow a lump in anticipation for what’s coming - and he is so hard, so hard for you and only you - it’s the reassurance you didn’t know you needed. 

You edge him, very unplanned and surprising both you and him as you bring him to the very brink of an orgasm only to stop moving your hand and focus on kissing him instead. You can sense his frustration but that only makes your satisfaction grow. If he doesn’t like it, he can flip you around and fuck you stupid if he wants - but unless he tells you to stop, you’ll edge the shit out of him. 

He doesn’t say anything, rolling with the punches but what he does is retaliate in his own way, sneaking his hand down your pajamas and moving your underwear to the side, exposing your entrance to his fingers. As you start moving your hand along his cock again, purposefully changing the strength of your squeeze, he follows your lead and teases you, circling his fingers along your entrance before moving them to barely graze your clit - it only lasts a second, before you could feel the pads of his fingers back on your wetness. He is definitely retaliating and you can tell, but apparently, you also have more self-control than he does. Without saying a word, you speed up the movements of your hand, making a point to reach and grab a hold of his balls, too - his own movements freeze and he groans loudly in your ear, nearly toppling down onto you. It takes a few moves of your hand against his hardness before he is close again and for the second time, you stop your movements. 

A groan of annoyance does leave him this time around but other than that, he shows no other signs of frustration. You kiss him, smiling innocently and enjoying what he sees as torture. In a way, it is, because he could make you scream his name if he were to press his fingers just a bit harder and rub just a little bit faster, but you enjoy the leisure pace that he has and even more than that, you enjoy the power you hold over him in this moment. 

Third time’s the charm, they say. Yoongi no longer hesitates and his fingers are sliding in and out of you at a changing pace - at times, he is fast and rough, acting as if you will squirt all over him at any moment (which you would have, if he didn’t change the pace), then slow and languid, enjoying the sounds that escape you - sounds of pleasure and not of frustration. 

His reactions are another story - this time, due to all the previous edging you put him through, he approaches the end faster and you are even more ruthless with your movements, dropping his cock completely merely seconds before he reaches his orgasm. This makes him lose it, dropping his body on top of yours, his hand still stuck between your legs as he groans loudly right against your ear. 

“Y/N,” he growls into your ear - that sound alone is enough to make you giggle. This is the only form of retaliation you’ll ever get a chance to have and you want to take advantage of that. Not that you really have anything to make him pay back for - you just enjoy seeing the physical proof of your power over him. How could you not? “If you continue like this, I’ll explode and cum all over the sheets.”

“I don’t see a problem with that,” you giggle. “Well, I do, it’d be a pain in the ass to wash the sheets. You getting to come inside me sounds like a better solution though, doesn’t it?” you tease him, laughing at the way he pulls back to give you a look - his eyes are as wide as saucers at your words. He’s completely crazy for you and it feels so good to know that it’s mutual - you’re not the only one who wants this, you’re not the only one that can’t see anything else but the one who is in front of you.  

“Are you clean?” he checks immediately. 

“Clean and on the pill,” you inform him with a cheeky grin. “What about you?” 

“I’m clean and have a thing for creampies, so I’m in heaven right now,” you both laugh as he struggles to take off your pajama bottoms - you struggle with removing what’s left of your clothes simply because you’re in a rush - in an insane rush to finally feel one another fully, completely, in every way possible. 

Not a moment too soon, he slides inside you, both of you groaning loudly in relief. He doesn’t waste time, nor does he savor the moment - he starts thrusting into you, strong. You are a mix of limbs, moans and grunts, incoherent even in the way you kiss, with your mouths simply brushing together, your tongues lazily tracing one another as the pace of his thrusts speeds up. Other than the sound of his moans and your headboard hitting the wall, you can’t focus on anything - and when he starts rubbing at your clit in time with his deep thrusts, you are a goner. 

He stretches you out so good and his fingers are magical - you have no choice but to repeatedly ask for more, cursing and moaning at the mix of sensations you are under. Your fingers move from the grip they had on his hair down to his naked back, where you dig them into his skin, hard, in response to a particularly harsh thrust that he had given you, his cock hitting the depths you didn’t even know existed. His fingers circle your clit faster, only pausing to pinch at it, and that’s when you kiss your sanity goodbye. Squeezing your walls around him, it’s your orgasm that rushes it to his own, hot spurts of cum filling you up as he shakes above you, moaning your name over and over again like his own personal prayer. 

You melt away into the softness of your bedding, still clutching to him for dear life, your brain running a thousand miles an hour, matching the speed of your heartbeat. His heartbeat matches yours too, as he is glued against you, his deep breaths tickling your ear before he starts leaving kisses along your neck. 

It’s Yoongi who moves first, and it’s to prove that he does have a thing for creampies - he moves down the bed and sits between your spread legs to shamelessly ogle at the way his cum drips out of you, reaching with his finger to rub the drops against your clit - overstimulated, you arch your back and moan in pleasure. Without an ounce of hesitation, Yoongi lies down with his face between your legs and proceeds to eat you out like no one had ever had done before. You are thrashing in a matter of minutes, pulling hard at his hair and coming on his face as he licks it all up, both his release and yours. 

“This was so fucking good, I can’t even think straight,” you admit in a sigh once he finally lets you go and lies down beside you. He doesn’t pull you in for a hug and while that would normally be a warning sign to you, you’re not worried now - not when he turns to you and looks at you like you are the only thing that matters. No one had ever looked at you like this. No one. And you’ve had plenty warm  your bed and treat you to multiple orgasms. 

“We fucked. Now it’s time to talk,” he reminds you of your earlier words, to which you laugh. 

“You really want to take me to that dinner, don’t you?” you ask, a little bit uncomfortable with the way he is pushing towards the conversation. You know it’s a conversation that you need to have and that you need to have it soon, but you wanted to enjoy the post sex lazy moment a little bit longer. Not with Yoongi, though. He wants his answer. 

“I really do,” he admits immediately, nuzzling his face into your pillow. “I want to date you. Fuck you every night, if you let me. Multiple times a night, if possible. Listen to hours upon hours of you complaining about every bridezilla you’ll ever have to deal with. I want to talk to you, learn more about you, share playlists with you, and cook for you. I just… really want to try being with you, Y/N. I want to finally do what I’ve wanted to do since I watched you drive away in the mall parking lot. To have a chance and do something with this.” 

His words warm your heart, you’d be a fool to deny it. And while you want every single thing listed, you’re well aware that the level of emotions that the both of you have reached does not really match the length of your… relationship. Technically, you’ve had one unofficial date and fucked once. That’s hardly a good foundation for knowing that you are in love with him. And that is the phrase - in love, not love. You can’t love him, not yet - you don’t know enough about him, and despite the unusual trajectory of your relationship, you would need more time to know it’s the real deal. But you are in love. You are and you’d be a fool to deny it. 

That doesn’t guarantee you a happily ever after, nor would it ever, but it does tell you that having him in the bed next to you is right. 

“None of that guarantees anything,” you remind him. “I want to try too, but we’re going to have to be realistic. Let’s take it slow. Just… start getting to know each other. Dates and… talking, lazy movie nights that end with mindblowing sex… As long as we don’t rush it and follow our own pace, a pace we both agree with, I really want to try, too.” 

“I am perfectly fine with that,” he smiles at you - it’s possibly the most genuine smile you’ve ever seen on him, the one that is hard to control and impossible to hide, no matter how hard one tries - the one that makes your face hurt because you are so genuinely happy, you couldn’t smile any wider even if you tried. “I have almost rushed into something I wasn’t ready for at all and it nearly cost me a chance to be with you,” he shakes his head, possibly at his own stupidity. You don’t blame him, though. You did before but you understand now and you doubt you’ll ever blame him for it again. “I don’t want to make a mistake again, especially not with you. I already made one too many and I don’t want to do it again.” 

“Yoongi?” you smile at him, no longer able to ignore the warmth that fills your heart. 

“What?” 

“I’m in love with you, too,” you are confident as you say it back. In love is safe. Love is… something that might come up along the line, if you’re lucky. But in love you are and he deserves to know that he’s not alone in that department.  “Just so you know… FYI.” 

He says nothing but he doesn’t really have to - the smile on his face says all that you need to hear and so does the way he grabs you by the waist and gently tugs you towards him, until you are lying on top of him and smiling down at him, feeling his cock harden against the skin of your thigh - the night is long from over. 

He knows it too, as he starts kissing you again, his hands caressing your cheeks as he does so. And this time too, he kisses you like it’s the only thing he ever wants to do. 

“This cake is amazing,” Sojung comments with her mouth full of the fluffy goodness - she even tried the carrot cake one and even that one was amazing. “You did a great job.” 

“Well, even a shitty wedding needs a good cake,” Seokjin shrugs casually. 

“Hey!” Sojung snaps with her mouth still full, pausing to swallow her bite. “Don’t talk like that about my wedding that never happened! Everyone had fun and ate well - they even had an amazing cake. It’s the best wedding I’ve ever attended,” she jokes, smiling brightly. 

“Eh, it’s in my top five,” Seokjin laughs with her. “And the cake is pretty darn amazing, if I do say so myself. But you know how the saying goes - those who can’t wed, bake.” 

“Well, I can’t wed and I can’t bake,” Sojung laughs. “Basically, I’m screwed?” 

“Basically, yeah,” Seokjin smiles brightly at the way she laughs at her own joke. “You know, I do teach baking occasionally. In the off-wedding season. If you want to, I can… tutor you.” 

There is a brief pause, as both of them consider the possibilities his offer is bringing - in a way, both of them know that the offer isn’t necessarily limited to baking. Seokjin doesn’t have to confirm it - Sojung can see it in the way he smiles at her. And she smiles back. 

“You know, I think I’d like that,” she announces. “When does the workshop start?”

taglist:   @moonchild1  sunshinerainbowsbts  iwishselena  sumzysworld  @shrimpmsg​

[felicitywrites]

fragments | jimin x reader [10]

© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED | felicitywrites on tumblr (2022) NO reposts, translations, or any type of distribution allowed.

synopsis: your heart sank to your stomach as you stepped out of your room, and right there in your kitchen was the last person you ever wanted to see again. he acted as though he still lived there with you, knew each and every corner like the back of his hand and you blinked harshly trying to convince yourself you were dreaming.

impossible. this is impossible.

what was park jimin doing in your apartment, in your own loose bathrobe, pouring you a cup of coffee as he greeted you with that stupid smile on his face, when three years ago, you were certain he was out of your life forever as he left you here on your own and run into the arms of someone else? this should be a dream, you repeated.

until you figured out it actually wasn’t – because this was that day, the one before you confronted him about his affair.

unfortunately, you were about to relive the same day over and over again, and you had absolutely no idea as to why.

pairing: professor!jimin x author!reader

genre: 70% angst, 20% smut, 10% fluff

warnings: an emotional rollercoaster, infidelity, betrayal, self-destructive behaviors, unhealthy coping mechanisms, pining, toxic and abusive relationships, self-blaming, gaslighting, smut

status: COMPLETED

word count: 8.4k

song recs: milk & honey - billie marten (alt version) | the butterfly effect - before you exit | the other - lauv | who - lauv ft. bts

taglist: @mickmoon @mawwnsterr @peanutbutterjm @sweet–catastrophee @loljrau @bri-mal @christiandosworld @park-jimin-isnt-real

author's note: if you're still here, i would like to say thank you so much for keeping up with this fic! i know this isn't as explosive and brilliant as a lot of chaptered fics are but it warms my heart knowing that there are amazing ppl like you guys who enjoyed reading this as just as much as i loved writing it. i'll forever be grateful, for each and everyone of you who made fragments shine in its own way <3 3 special chapters to go! ilysm xx

[fic masterlist]

chapter warnings: ANGST, unnamed illness, emotional detachment, neglect, self-blaming, mentions of self-destructive behaviors in the past

A man and a child.

You walked into the elevator, pressed on the eleventh floor, and as it shut, you repeated the words. “A man and a child..”

It took you about fifteen seconds to find yourself standing outside the door of your then apartment unit before you dared to bring up your finger over the button, taking a deep breath while you contemplated it.

Just a few minutes ago you were thinking about your father and his family–the possibility of them having been invited by your mom is the only thing that would make sense, despite it making you feel a bit uneasy.

It wasn’t like your parents couldn’t be friends it didn’t surprise you when they reunited the past year, thanks to Sojung who put in most of the effort into the closure she had always believed they deserved.

You realized how admirable of a character Sojung is to your father’s life, and the way she easily got along well with your mother was something you’d anticipated, hearing from her how much time she spent listening and understanding the history of your family.

However, as your index finger hovered centimeters away from the doorbell, you froze abruptly. Your head spun around the hallway where you stood, skimmed over the doors of neighbors closed off, feeling so far away from you–from the rest of the world.

You couldn’t explain why it felt overwhelming all of a sudden like a hole was forming inside you, right at your heart, almost as if it was preparing to swallow you in entirely.

Because then your phone buzzed from your coat pocket, and you quickly picked it out to see who had texted you, and your heart stopped beating at the name that popped up the screen.

It’s your father, asking you if you were available the next weekend for a short trip with Sojung and Mirae–reminding you of a promise you made your little sister

You gulped loudly, knuckles turning white at how hard you’re gripping the device as you slowly lift your head back at the door, and the words hit you all over again.

A man and a child.

And then you remembered Taehyung, of how he insisted that you come over to your mom’s place for her to help you figure out the title for your book.

As if it wasn’t already strange enough, he could’ve just brought you along with him to that dinner he was having with his father. You wouldn’t mind, why would you? Sitting down listening to the old man talk business wasn’t new to you anymore.

You could simply hang out with his mother out at the veranda, choose to hear about her wine expertise and her furniture design choices instead.

Why did he drive you here out of the blue?

But you were stunned at the unexpected click at the door, and you stepped back instantly as it swung open. Your breath hitched at a figure that appeared before you, and you looked down, unable to face whoever’s about to welcome you.

It wasn’t your mother. If it were, then she would’ve screamed or spoken a word, maybe greeted you with a hand in the air ready to snap at you for taking too long to arrive.

Yet there was complete silence, and you couldn’t make out the hesitant footsteps heading towards you as you hid and sunk within yourself.

The oddly familiar sound of a voice calling your name was the last straw, and you spared a second to gaze up to find the source, an inscrutable emotion written all over your face.

You were in a trance, as though your body lost touch of the ground, feet hanging in the air as its coldness left you frozen, unmoving, the world around you washed away into nothing.

Maybe you have washed away into nothing. But then it was everything.

Because then he was standing a couple of steps across from you, staring at you, crestfallen at the expression on your face–like you had never wanted it to be him to be at the other side, waiting for you to come.

After two years and a half, you were face to face with Park Jimin again, and you didn’t know why. But it was killing you somehow.

It was killing you as painfully and agonizingly slow as possible, because as soon as your eyes met, you heard a shuffle and you trailed where it came from, seeing a small, young child, stumbling over his steps as he blubbered his name, no, not his name.

“Pa..pa?” and the trance you were in suddenly shifted, and you were slapped hard with reality–pushing you back to the ground, feet landing but barely.

It truly felt like dying but in slow motion. A man and a child.

His heart shattered for you, that you were certain, as he turned his attention to the child, and you saw a woman rushing to pick him up.

You croaked, a lump forming at the back of your throat with the name that slipped out of your lips.

“Yoojin?”

It must be another one of those nightmares that would haunt you after stressful days when you thought you were about to sleep peacefully in bed.

It should be just a nightmare.

Yet the more you tried to convince yourself that it was, the more reality kept hitting you bluntly, with no care for you or the amount of pain you went through because of this person now standing behind him.

That one person who was always right behind Jimin, like she was his own shadow looming over him for so long that you felt as if your existence in his life was just a dream.

You wanted to ask what she was doing at your mother’s place, why she came and with him and that young child, you didn’t even feel like asking about because a huge part of you knew it will only break you if you do.

But your mother arrived in between the tension, in between the silence, she came to rescue you from the doom, you could almost taste it.

You were going to question yourself why you were feeling hurt by all that when for a very long time you’d been fine with the hard truth. Besides, there’s Taehyung, you’re happy and in love with him, right?

Something was wrong but the moment your mom held your hand, everything else disappeared. Her words in your ear were like electricity coursing through your veins, waking you from nearly losing your consciousness.

“Sweetheart, please come in. We’ve been waiting for you..”

We? You frowned a little, but she didn’t accept any objection as she gestured for the other two to walk back inside, while she helped you walk towards the entrance.

Your legs were numb, your vision was becoming hazy as you were grabbing into her arm for support.

The distance from the door to the living room took a lot longer, and the minute you were sitting down on one side of the couch and your mother was running to get you a glass of water from the kitchen;

Your blurry eyes met Jimin’s deep brown ones, looking at you in concern but careful not to get too close, making sure the proximity wasn’t making you even more uncomfortable.

And Yoojin…

She’s leaving behind him, the child wrapped around her torso as she carried him to the bedroom. You watched her disappear before turning your head to where your mother returned, offering you to drink.

You mumbled a soft “Thanks, mom,” before sipping from the glass enough for you to be able to recover. It was definitely out of the ordinary for you to react that way, especially at how long you haven’t felt this consumed.

The energy you earned earlier that day was drained out of you, and all you could feel was exhaustion and fatigue, but the look on your mother’s face told you something.

It was like she was silently telling you to get it together, and funnily enough, you did try.

Funny, maybe that’s the only word you could think of describing the following events of that night. Life played with you and for the most of it, you had no idea.

As your mom started speaking to you, you caught Yoojin in your peripheral view, watching from the hallway, swallowing as you stared into her eyes. It was easier to be kind and offer a smile, but for some reason, you couldn’t afford it.

She understood anyway, but you figured maybe you and her could have a little chat after.

“Listen, sweetie,” your mom cooed, tucking away loose strands of your hair behind your ear, you flinched, hating the sound and the way Jimin was standing idly without any sort of reaction on his face.

“I’m here for something else,” you simply stated, looking away from them and your mom glanced over at him and for the second time that night, you saw Jimin’s face turn sullen.

“We know. Taehyung called.”

You scoffed, unable to process your thoughts as you haphazardly switched emotions, from shock to disappointment, to sadness, now, to anger.

“So, he planned all this?” you puzzled, incredulously laughing after. “What?”

“Y/N..” it was Jimin’s turn to try and appease you, calm your nerves, and though for him it was like trudging over dangerous territory, he still wanted to do something. After all, he came all the way here for you, nothing and no one else.

He wouldn’t waste another second without trying again.

It hurt to look at him then when his sullen expression was causing your heart to swell. He wasn’t doing it on purpose, and it’s affecting you in ways you never have imagined were still possible after everything that happened.

Your mother looked at him one last time, and then at you, before she considered it as her cue to leave and give you two some time to talk, without even asking if it was okay with you.

It’s okay, but you weren’t even sure what to say to him.

Two years had gone by, and the time you spent thinking about him and where he went left as you moved on with your life.

To you, Park Jimin had been nothing but Lee, the main character of the book you’d successfully written–and picturing him like that again, real, had stopped crossing your mind.

And then your fingers ached as you cast them a look, seeing your ring finger beautifully shining, taunting you all the same.

There’s a ring attached to it, and the feeling was close to when you took one of it off, the ring he gave you years ago.

You were too far gone to realize that you’d been wearing that ring for a while. You never tried taking it off, thinking Taehyung loved seeing it himself.

Little did you know the ring didn’t come from him.

“Y/N,” Jimin called for you again, and finally, you faced him fully. “You’re here..” you whispered, and for a split second, you searched for Yoojin from afar but you realized she wasn’t there anymore.

He seemed to notice, and before you could even start asking him, he plucked out the courage to open his mouth and say something. Anything, everything.

“I’m sorry… for bringing her with me..”

It was such an odd thing to say for him to start the conversation of why Min Yoojin was there, and why they were together. You could easily put two and two together but you tried not to, wanting to hear it from him instead.

If there’s one thing you learned from your relationship with Jimin, it’s that you need to give people time to explain themselves, let the truth come out before you come to any conclusion yourself.

You forgot to give Jimin that time, and maybe it was why even after so long, you’re still often bombarded with these unanswered questions about what happened between you and him.

Even with Taehyung by your side, you still wondered the why’s and the how’s, and without Jimin, you were unable to come up with answers.

“I don’t know where to begin..” he chuckled awkwardly, distracting you from your thoughts. His crescent eyes in full view made your stomach somersault, immediately getting you in on a trip down memory lane with the way you automatically reacted and replied the same way you would always do before.

“Hold my hand,” you casually muttered, as if it didn’t come from you. His eyes grew wide, mouth hanging open at your words. “Wait, what?”

You smiled, and it did wonders to him as much as he did with you.

“I um, I guess you can if it helps you better with whatever you’re gonna say… I don’t know..”

You were being nice, genuine, and it was far from how you were minutes ago. It’s not a big deal for him though, because he was reaching for your hand before you could even think twice.

With him, everything was natural and easy, but then you were justifying your actions based on the fact that Taehyung knew this, he’s the one who planned that anyway.

“You’re still wearing this…” he said, running his thumb across the dainty ring around your finger, and you followed his gaze, concentrating on the way the band looked perfectly on you.

“Still?” you asked, eyebrows creasing in confusion. “What.. this isn’t..”

This isn’t the ring you gave me, you were supposed to say but didn’t. Of course, it’s not. They weren’t the same ring, there was not a resemblance.

He sighed, moving away from you yet still holding you. “I regret not coming back… Not coming back to bring you home… to me.”

“I… I should’ve done a lot of things, but I couldn’t do it. Not when you didn’t even want to see me or talk to me. But then this, you’re wearing this after everything. I don’t.. understand..”

“Jimin,” you croaked, “What are you talking about?”

And then he was in tears, in complete surrender to the battle that had been ensuing inside of him. He broke free from the shackles he put himself into so that he could get to you somehow.

So that he could get back to you somehow.

He had to try, no matter what.

“Don’t you want to meet him?” he asked in between hiccups, wiping off his tears staining his reddened cheeks as he got up, letting go of your hand.

You stood right after, head spinning at the pain stinging within the walls of your heart. Your mind was emptying at each attempt of him to say something, to find the will to say everything he came there to say.

You’re still the woman he had loved for years, but there’s a whole other part of you missing and it hurts him to watch you lose it, to see you grasp for something you couldn’t reach.

“You’re not making any sense, Jimin. Look at me, and tell me what’s up. Please?” you begged, though your voice was strained. You couldn’t cry, not because you didn’t want to, but because the tears weren’t coming.

You felt empty and hollow, precisely why you weren’t in tears like he was.

And the more he was trying to dodge the question, the more it was getting harder for you to reach whatever it was that you were holding out for.

Then the familiar, tiny voice called both your attention, though it was more of yours than his.

“Ma-ma?”

Jimin froze in spot, eyes wide as he slowly turned to the direction of a young boy standing meters away, rubbing his eyes and pouting his lips.

“Jiho, where are you–”

You were at a loss for words, watching the boy stare intently and curiously at you from a distance, and even more so as Yoojin came running behind him and stopping when she caught you looking back.

The boy looked just like him. Jimin. It was uncanny, that he was an image of his childhood self, the boy in the pictures he kept with him after he moved out of his family house to live independently and away from his parents.

You realized then you had to ask, “Is he your… child?” and the moment he and Yoojin heard it, they exchanged a meaningful glance before you spoke again.

“Did you two…” but your mother’s voice from the front door halted you.

“This is enough, Y/N. How could you… How dare you… How dare you forget about your child? Hm? I can’t believe this..”

And then it came as a hot liquid poured over you when your mother’s hands stomped her feet towards you and shook you by your shoulders, as though waking you up again, knocking some sense out of you.

You couldn’t feel anything, not a single visible pain, and Jimin lost all his ability to move or speak, just turning away so as not to see you crumble or fall.

It was so close, you were so close to your surrender.

You could almost taste it, but your mother stopped and started sobbing uncontrollably with her hands still glued around your weak body.

Then you said it, for the first time, silencing the room and the rest of the world.

“My child… I… I have a.. child?”

Jimin helplessly looked at you, meeting your dull eyes and he kept up a facade that he was fine, better, stronger. He felt the need to be, not wanting to hide away anymore.

“We have a child. You’re Jiho’s mother, Y/N..”

Three years ago

“I found this in her work computer..” Sooyoung handed Namjoon an envelope full of printed copies of a diary you had written since you started working for Kim Publishing.

“You should’ve just sent them via email..”

She rolled her eyes, “It’s her diary, Joon. I can’t just send you those randomly. Besides, I read them and they were…”

“They were what?” he asked, leaning over the railing as they met up at the roof deck of the office building. She sighed, following his movement. “She seemed to have been losing a lot of time. Like, say, in one day she’s full of plans and then the next, she forgot about everything she did. She kept missing time, and kept forgetting certain moments. At first, I thought maybe it’s just one of those common scenarios we all go through our forgetful phase. Maybe due to stress and all that. But I don’t know, she didn’t seem to know why it was happening.”

It never made sense to your friends, let alone to you. You always thought of time as relevant, always wanted to take time into doing literally anything.

You always thought of time as anything but how Taehyung viewed it.

After the time loop, was when everything went into some kind of roller coaster, with you stuck in one of the seats and everyone had gone off.

You thought you were in control, that you knew best but what you didn’t know was that the encounter you had was a mere coincidence or a strange phenomenon.

It didn’t happen to force you a lesson or two or make you realize what you lost and what you could have.

It was there for a different purpose.

It happened for you to view time as a piece of you–an element of your being, the reason why you ended up the way you did.

You were meant to see how time changed for you and Jimin and on everyone else around you. How time caused the riff but also caused its repair.

When you had last seen Jimin, he asked you for an escape, away from the world and reality the two of you found yourselves in. You refused, left, and went back home despite the desperate need to return and come with him.

Be with him again because that’s what you had always wanted.

Yet time for you had been warped, and you let fear consume you, shut all doors so you couldn’t see what’s out there, You were right, you were at a standstill for years while Jimin found a life of his own, a way of coping, whether or not it was healthy or just.

Time changed you, and Taehyung came into your life in a whiplash. He’s everything you ever wanted to be, spontaneous, strong-willed, funny, outspoken–he’s the kind of perfect you felt you never were.

So you found your way towards him because then you had nowhere else to be.

While you were unaware of the missing time and the blurring lines between what’s real and not, life was taking different turns and you were trying to see each of its ends without you knowing.

After you visited your father’s house by the cliff and his new family, you got on the train and returned home–only to end up at the motel you and Taehyung stayed in.

You met those people who owned the place, including the woman you met at the bus stop the day before the time loop happened.

She told you about the ring, as the kids kept saying they found it while cleaning, and when Taehyung came for work, they realized it was yours.

The woman wanted to ask if the same ring was the one that left the permanent mark on your finger, but didn’t–because then you wore another ring, in the same finger you had the mark etched.

She told you to come to find him, Taehyung, thinking it was him who became the reason why you dreaded Mondays. You left, and everything else was a blur after that.

Because then it wasn’t Taehyung whom you called back on the train.

It was Jimin.

He answered, and asked to meet at the cafe near your office–and it wasn’t your idea of a place, but you came anyway.

The moment you came, he noticed the difference in you. But he shoved it away, thinking maybe it was just the hormones. By that point, you were three months pregnant, but you started acting strange. It was like you didn’t know you were carrying a life inside you.

When you were locked in your room while Sooyoung was helping you, you would always ask for him, but whenever he’d call or come over, you’d act indifferent, like you didn’t want him anywhere near you.

So, Jimin stayed away, until your mother came to speak with you, only to find you hurling over the toilet bowl, throwing up that she knew what was happening.

Everything about Jimin and the pregnancy had been suppressed by you, replaced by fragments of time and memories you built as a coping mechanism.

The book you were to write three years after that, was the reality you created for yourself, leaving the truths hidden somewhere inside you.

Hidden where you couldn’t search for them even if you tried.

You wrote the time loop, the occurrences after that, and the three years you spent after the break-up; all of which were read by your friends, and when you gave birth to your child but didn’t want to do anything with him.

They decided to let your mother read into that diary, then tell Jimin himself.

You fell ill, beyond explanation. You lost a lot of time, memories, most of them suppressed to conceal another set of memories, others replaced in your attempt to not face them out of fear and uncertainty.

Jimin brought you home, and for weeks, you were alright, until you’re not.

You kept asking him about Yoojin, about your old apartment, about your job, about the blueberry pancakes he had stopped making you.

He tried so hard to make your stay, fulfill the promises he wasn’t able to do, but then you were slipping away faster than he did once before.

You left him, and your child–alone in that place he thought you called ‘home.’

You left and ran to the person you’d always wanted to see again, Kim Taehyung.

Not knowing the truth, he let you in, and Namjoon found you–told him everything but he wanted to help you the best he could. He brought you to different specialists, tried to find alternatives for you, even helped you remember.

Two years later Jimin lost track of his own time, ending up in Sydney to find an escape. Hurt. bewildered, he found her again. Min Yoojin.

But even then, all he could think about was you.

It was always you.

It has always been you.

“I should get going, Jimin. It’s late, I can’t stay here..”

He looked lifeless, nodding as his eyes were out there in the horizon where darkness met darkness. Yoojin rubbed his arm in comfort, hoping to ease him a bit before she leaves.

“You can talk to her tomorrow, don’t leave yet, or ever.. Jiho needs you both in his life, you know that, right?”

It’s unbelievable even for her, as the words left her mouth. Yoojin had grown back into the same person she was in her university years, the same person Jimin had fallen in love with.

Except that this time, they weren’t here as one. She has a family of her waiting for her back at her parents’ home, the family she built in Sydney–whom Jimin learned to love like his own.

A single mother of twins, Yoojin met someone and got pregnant, but it didn’t work out for her. She hustled through life on her own, managed to land a job enough to pay her bills and the needs of her children.

Her family refused to help until Jimin saw her at a restaurant where she worked as a waitress. He helped her reunite with her parents, even making them think they were back together so that they’d invite her.

As ridiculous as it seemed, it was a way for Jimin to relieve himself of the leftover guilt–of breaking your heart, of ruining your relationship with him.

Of letting your pain turn into something somewhat permanent like the mark on your skin from the promise ring that once held his so-called promises.

He felt guilty for causing you that much pain that you went ill, which you didn’t even know you had. It should’ve been him instead, he should’ve been the one in pieces, not you.

“She’s still wearing the ring, what does that mean..” he mindlessly said, still avoiding Yoojin’s gaze. “Do you think she’s… starting to remember?”

“Jimin, I don’t think she’s capable of forgetting how it felt… To love you, I saw the way she looked at you. I know I’m not the right person to say this to you but she’s still the woman you loved many years ago. I’m sure she feels just the same.”

It will truly make him the happiest if Yoojin was right. But then the thought of Taehyung weighed him down, knowing how much you cared for him; how dear he is to you.

It wasn’t the time to feel any sort of jealousy, especially with someone Jimin trusts when it comes to taking care of you. He knows the man loves you with all of his heart, despite everything.

And as Yoojin gave him a reassuring pat on his shoulder before turning to leave, Jimin felt the weight lift a little bit, his eyes softening at the sight of the woman who was once the embodiment of his grave sin, the person he had once chosen when he left you.

The irony was mocking him, that in all of this, he’s nothing but a loser. He’s not the person he was decades ago, he’s become irreparable, a lone vessel living.

“Jimin?”

He tilted his head, seeing Yoojin leaning by the glass door of the balcony. “She’s awake, she’s um, watching Jiho…”

And he flew from where he stood, back inside to where Jiho was sleeping in. to the guest bedroom where your mother was sitting at the opposite side of the bed, and you kneeling over the side where Jiho slept soundly.

The door slammed open, revealing him heaving and panting, both heads turn to him but your mother got up and excused herself, nudging his arm as she passed by him with a soft smile before walking out.

You were watching his movements, expression calm and so much different than earlier. Your hand traced along Jiho’s milky skin, admiring the warmth it was giving you.

No words were spoken for another minute and two, and you returned all your attention to the boy, then running a hand on his hair, your fingertips gliding across his cheek, careful not to wake him.

You didn’t realize the curve of your lips was forming into a smile and Jimin sat on the edge of the bed, heart pounding in his chest while he watched you.

It was not the first time you held Jiho, but to him, it felt like it was–he wanted to forget about what happened before you left.

He simply wanted to start all over again.

“How is he so beautiful?” you breathed, tapping a finger on the tip of his nose.

“I know,” he grinned, reaching for his leg and holding it gently. “I think about it all the time..”

You sighed, hand placing above Jiho’s, right on his stomach. It felt foreign, to have him this close to you. You still couldn’t believe he is your child.

You’ve always wanted one, your mother reminded you earlier, you hated how you forgot about that part of all things. When she told you everything that happened nearly three years ago, you asked her if it was okay for Jimin to finish the story. You wished to hear his side of things.

But she insisted so you listened to her until she was about to tell you why Yoojin was there when Jimin came bursting through the door.

Now, you’re left with that one remaining question in mind, but you couldn’t find it in you to ask.

Instead, you diverted the topic to something else. Just something to ease the tension in the air around you and him. “So, you and Taehyung met?”

He gaped, but then he nodded, waiting for you to continue.

You nodded right back in understanding, “I see,” you replied. “Guess I just forgot about that too, no?” you sarcastically pointed out.

“Y/N..” he stood, then sat down on the floor beside you. You’re in awe as he took both of your hands in his, stealing you away from Jiho’s.

“I didn’t know it was you..” you cried, tears streamed down your cheeks that instant, lost in the haze as you were when you first saw him that night.

There were no apologies enough for you to say, of running off to Taehyung and leaving Jimin behind with your child, even though it wasn’t your fault, to begin with.

For two years and a half, you thought he was the one who left you again. The one who came back into your life, only to leave you in pieces the second time around.

You didn’t know it was him who stayed, but not you.

He slipped his hands around your neck, ran his thumb to wipe away your tears. You could see it in his eyes, the similar exhaustion and fatigue you felt. They were proof of his surrender, and it pained to look into those beautiful eyes that were full of stars when you first saw them.

Trying his best not to fall back into tears, Jimin gulped down and showed you off a smile, the best one he could offer.

“How could I forget about you? And him?” you looked at Jiho, feeling your tears fall ten times harder. “It–it doesn’t make sense, Jimin. How is it possible? How did it happen? Where did it all go wrong..?”

He lay his forehead onto yours, breathing as he shushed you, and you wailed into his arms, clenching your fists behind him. You let everything go out, all the questions, the thoughts, the pain that had resided in you for so long.

“It’s not your fault. Please, stop. It’s fine, we’re fine. Okay??”

He kept rubbing your back, comforting you as you went on and on. “No, it’s not okay. Two years, Jimin. That’s two years that I didn’t even see him, or you… All along I believed I was leading a different life, and you’re gone. I was… with someone else. And I know it’s not Taehyung’s fault, I love him, I care about him. But how was I deserving of such a happy ending when you’re left on your own, taking care of our child. It’s selfish, Jimin. I’ve been selfish this whole time.”

His heart stopped, most likely because of the way you kept addressing Jiho as our child. It gave him a little bit of hope, just enough to put a smile on his face, a good amount of hope to live by in each second of his life.

Since she saw you at Hyerim’s party, three years after you broke up, Jimin knew he still loved you. He felt it the moment he found out it was you in the bathtub. It never really went away, everything that you made him feel.

When you were in bed, lips devouring each other’s and you let it out that you’re still in love with him, Jimin felt in deep in his bones. To him, it was rewarding, even though a huge part of him understood he was undeserving of your love and forgiveness.

He hurt you, and until that moment you’re sunken into his chest, crying your heart out, he could feel it within. It’s all his fault. He did that to you. It was him who destroyed everything you had built amidst the heartbreak and trauma you went through with your parents’ divorce.

Jimin knows, that there’s not a slight chance you’re coming home to him, and if you will, it would only be because of Jiho. Not him. You don’t love him anymore.

When you found it hard to keep going, you inhaled deeply and released one last heave before you gently pulled away from him, your eyes still drawn to him as you did.

Taehyung was going to come and pick you up, which he knew as well, but before you could even move one bit, he decided to shoot his shot, one last time.

“Y/N,” he pushed your hair behind your shoulder and sighed softly, admiring your rosy cheeks and puffy nose, watching as your expression shifted into another emotion. Relief. You’re still hurting, that’s for certain, but at that moment, you’re relieved.

Jimin looked ethereal under the yellow light, just how Jiho was when you first entered the room.

Deep down, you’re glad that Jiho got his facial features from his father. You couldn’t imagine looking at him and seeing parts of yourself in him when the truth was, and always will be – you abandoned him, your child.

You left him when you were supposed to be there holding him.

This is better, you thought, skimming over Jimin’s face, every part of it. His eyes, his nose, his lips, his cheeks, you’re keeping it in memory, wanting to remember it as how you memorized Jiho’s face.

I won’t forget about them anymore, you swear, full of conviction and determination to get through all of that. You’re about to say something when he caught onto you first.

“Y/N,” he repeated, “I’m not going to ask you anything anymore, but this–” he took your hand, placed his thumb on your ring finger, and gazed at you fondly. “I don’t know why you’re still wearing this, but you don’t need to. You need to be happy, and I can see that you truly are… with him. He loves you with everything he’s got, and he cares about you deeply. Knowing that is more than enough for me to go on. I want you to remember that. Will you do it for me?”

He continued, gulping down the fresh batch of tears gathering in his eyes.

“You have no idea how much I wanted for this to happen, for you to remember me. For you to come here and meet Jiho. If I were to die tomorrow, I would die happy, knowing that in a way, in your way, you came home. Or at least, you found your way back. It means the whole world to me. You don’t need to stay right now, that’s not the point of all this. I want you, no, we want you to take the time you need to figure it out, to live, to publish all the books you want to write, to go out there and live for yourself and no one else. You can always see Jiho whenever you wish, there’s no need to contact me if you don’t feel like it, your mother can bring him to you. You’re not guilty of leaving, there’s no reason for me or anyone to blame you. You were ill, and that’s not your fault. I hope that as soon as you’re out of here, you’re leaving the regrets and the guilt, but not us. Not Jiho. You are his mom, his mama, he knows and he’ll wait for you to get better, alright?”

You’re beyond speechless, but it didn’t matter, because what you did next served as your response to everything he had said. It’s not that you don’t love him anymore; you came into terms with it as he spoke, that loving Jimin was like reading your favorite book over and over.

Each time that you go over and reread it, you fall in love with it a little differently. You love it for a different reason, could be one tiny detail that you observed or in the next time, you love it because of a certain character or a particular scene.

Loving Park Jimin felt just like that. You smiled at the realization, remembering that fateful time loop where each day you were seeing repeated sceneries, cycles, moments – yet, the way he made you feel was all different depending on which day it was.

One day, you loved him because he knew where to touch you – right where it hurt a bit worse, then another day came and you loved him less because he messed up.

It was why even if he scarred your heart deeply, you couldn’t find it in you to completely hate him. He was going to marry you, he made that decision and told your mother about it. That was the part you failed to see.

But it was one solid proof that you can love just about anyone, except that they’re not Jimin. He’s a part of you that you can’t erase. You will always have to remember him no matter what happens or no matter how long it takes.

Loving him came in waves, in steady or unsteady breaths, in shallow or deep waters, in warm or cold weathers. Even though you won’t remember him in specifics, your heart will always do.

You wanted him to at least feel it, even if that was the last time you’re going to see him. He’s right. You have to live, you didn’t need to stay. You have to live and get better, for Jiho and more importantly, for yourself.

And you will, when the time is right, you can still find your way home.

But right then, you leaned in and brought your hands around his neck, tilting your head and grazed your lips against his. He cried, returning the kiss as gently as he could, fighting himself not to go further even though it was all he could think of.

Taehyung’s coming to take you home. Jimin reminded himself that before pressing his forehead onto yours, pulling away as you exhaled a breath, tears rolled down your cheeks and he wiped them away with his fingers just as fast as they fell.

“Taehyung’s on his way.. I’ll leave you here with Jiho, okay?”

You sighed and nodded, detaching yourself from him and he stood from the floor, helping you get up on your knees. You gave him a tight embrace and whispered your gratitude before he slowly exited the room, holding the door open for a second to call you back.

“Wait, Y/N?” you turned to him, anticipating. He smiled, crescent eyes in view, “Life in Between Us, Not After..” he said, you narrowed your eyes.

“What’s that..?”

He chuckled, fingers running into his hair then paused hesitantly, “The title of your book? Your mother asked me to suggest anything for you. She said she’s not as great with words as your aunt so…”

You placed your hand over your chest, feeling your heart bloom like flowers in the spring, repeating the words, flashing him a smile after.

“Life in Between Us, Not After…” you nodded gratefully, “Thank you, Jimin. Lee will surely love that..” He laughed, leaning his head on the doorframe, “Oh yeah? Lee. What a pretty name.”

You grinned proudly, “Yes. Lee’s students gush over his name. Just that one detail and they’re head over heels. You should read it when it’s out..”

“I will. Thank you, Y/N, for writing that. I’m so proud of you.”

And he closed the door behind him, leaving you breathless, all giddy with excitement to tell Namjoon about it tomorrow.

You crawled into bed next to Jiho, cradling him as you soon drifted into a relaxed nap.

The next morning, you woke up feeling light-headed, and the first thing you saw was Jiho’s face right in front of you. You instantly smiled, and the door swung open slightly, revealing Taehyung and his morning mess of hair. He came, but he didn't bring you home.

“Hey,” he said, raising a hand to greet you and you let out a small chuckle, motioning for him to come inside. He did, and you noticed the paper bags he’s carrying.

“Breakfast?” you asked, and he shook his head. “Jimin left these for you. They’re medicine and vitamins.”

You sat up, taking the bag from him. “Medicine?” he nodded, “Prescription pills… Your mother has told you everything, yeah?”

“Yes. I uh, I haven’t thanked you yet for–”

He waved you off, “No, Y/N… It’s nothing. I just did what’s right for you.”

Sitting down at the edge, near Jiho’s feet, Taehyung looked over at him then at you. “Will you be upset if I say I saw him first?

You paused, mouth hanging open, ‘You did? When?!” he grinned, holding your hand, “He and Jimin came to visit you sometimes at home. You’re in your room writing, and I would let them in, let this kid wander about, eventually, he saw you through the pictures in the hall. His first word, did Jimin tell you?”

You shook your head, he pinched your cheek. “Mama, that’s his first word…”

“Oh, God… Taehyung..”

He sighed and reached for you, bringing you to his chest, and held you as close as he ever could. “You’re doing so much better, Y/N. I hope you don’t forget about all this, but even if you do, I want you to know that I will be here for you… every step of the way. You don’t have to come home with me, you can stay here at your mom’s or somewhere else. But I will help you, okay? I will never get tired of holding you like this, even if soon you’ll come up and tell me I don’t have to. I just want you to make that call for yourself.”

You’re gripping the paper bag in your hand behind his back, overwhelmed with emotions but you remained as calm and collected as possible.

It was hard to imagine that the memories you had kept with Taehyung weren’t all real. It was even harder when you realized that he accepted you, despite you choosing him as a kind of a side effect, and living with him as an alternative.

It pained you to think how much hurt you caused him. But you could feel it still, that he loves you amidst all that. He continues to care for you, to hold you despite the circumstances.

Despite the uncertainties.

Taehyung loves you, and he will always do.

You and he walked out into the balcony to talk for another hour, leaving Jiho still sound asleep in bed. He told you Jimin went off to take Yoojin to the airport, and you finally had the answers you forgot to ask for the previous night.

Jimin went to Sydney to finish his doctorate, one of the youngest in his batch to become a doctor in education, met Yoojin for the third time – helped her reunite with her family she had lost contact with. She had twins, the father ran off and left and she kept living and working to bring food to their table.

He told you about that one instance where he almost punched Jimin when he brought Yoojin. You knew Jimin loved her the same way you loved him, you had always known.

You laughed as he told you about Namjoon and Sooyoung as well, especially with the way Sooyoung cried every night thinking about you. She would read your journals over and over, writing her own notes just in case you end up asking about details.

You asked him about your created memories; the trip to private islands, the cabin retreat for you to write, the reunion you had with Seola and Sungmin.

Taehyung said they were real. All of them.

You then figured out not everything was just fabricated by you, but there were moments of blankness, those days when you’re locked in the bedroom, writing.

You would talk about memories that didn’t happen between you and him but between you and Jimin. That hurt him a lot, yet he needed to help you. He wanted to.

He said you wrote about dreams and occurrences in your life, like that time loop – which was the reason why Namjoon agreed to publish it. He believed it was too good to be true, maybe a little terrifying but it was also what had driven him and Sooyoung to trace your memories for you.

You were in tears half the time, but they were not because you were hurt. You just couldn’t believe how lucky you were you had that support system.

You then remembered some other stuff, like Namjoon and Sooyoung’s soon-to-be child, your father, Sojung, and Mirae.

Sooyoung gave birth to a daughter, whom you will meet very soon – you took note of that. Your father, on the other hand, moved down south as you remembered.

Hoseok. You asked Taehyung about him and he told you he did become president of Jung University. And Hyerim… she didn’t disappear as you recalled.

Taehyung said she came to you once, apologized, and then left without hearing what you had to say. She left the country right after, never speaking to you or Jimin or Hoseok ever again.

Finally, Jungkook and Eunhye. You didn’t know why you wanted to know about them but you asked anyway.

“Their son is turning one in four days. They invited us, your mother too.”

You took note of that as well, already planning it in your head, shopping for baby clothes and stuff with Jiho. You’re bringing him with you… You couldn’t wait.

Taehyung had light in his eyes throughout your conversation with him, and for the first time in a long time, he was relieved of his pain – watching you relieve your own.

You told him you’re meeting your therapist as soon as possible, and you’re coming with your mother. He offered to drive you but you declined, wanting your father and his family to be there with you and your mother so he’ll be driving.

By the time Jiho was knocking from inside through the glass doors, you looked at Taehyung again, thanking him for everything he had done for you.

But you didn’t want to keep burdening him, he didn’t deserve that. You wanted him to focus on his job, his life. You wanted him the same things Jimin had wished for you.

You wanted to look after yourself – and not depend on anyone other than your family.

You’re letting him go, promising him you’d come back healthier, better, stronger.

You’re moving out of his apartment, showering him apologies and though he refused to accept them, you still said it. You’d pay him back in return someday…

He was not as devastated as you had expected him, it was as if he knew what was going to happen as he had said to you…

He will continue helping you, holding you, no matter how you see him. He will always love you.

Both of you walked back inside, heart at ease and lightweight. He proudly watched you bond with Jiho, hoping for you to go fight through this and everything else.

He’s going to be a friend to you, anything. But he will stay, just like everybody else in your life.

Loving you for him will always be like watching the sky at full speed. He’ll lay somewhere comfortable and watch you transform, change, shift, but at the end of the sunset – your heart that he ever so loved will continue to race.

There will always be another day for you, another time to live and prosper. Another time for you to be spontaneous and be who you want yourself to be.

You’re sitting in the living room watching cartoons with Jiho, who seemed to have gotten along pretty quickly with you, enjoying your company. He would call you mama every ten seconds, and your face would beam constantly.

Taehyung sat in a corner still watching you.

“Oh, I have a title now. Listen–” you announced, he hummed, smiling brightly, “Tell me.”

You grinned, bringing up your manuscript with a new cover page that read, Life In Between Us, Not After. His smile went bigger, so as yours.

“It’s perfect, Y/N…”

“It’s not my mom who gave it, though?” you pointed out, feigning disappointment.

He raised his eyebrows, crossing his arms over his chest. “Well, I kinda knew that it’s not her idea.” You giggled, and he stared at you as you returned to your spot on the couch, lifting Jiho so he’s on your lap.

“You’ll be okay, Y/N... Everything will be okay,” he muttered more to himself, spending the next hour observing you, but in a different light this time.

[previous] [next]

[closedafterdark]

Partners

LOOΠΔ Kimberly Lippington x Male Reader

8038 words

categories: smut, oral, tsundere! lip, detective! lip

Read on AFF

A bright, spring morning is anything but upon your return to Starship Precinct following your suspension for allowing the now rogue Detective Lee Luda to escape. While many were excited for your return, being called into Captain Choo Sojung’s office the moment you got out of the elevator meant the problems were only beginning. All eyes were on you as you walked by Kim Jiyeon and especially Son Jooyeon’s desks.

“What are you all doing? Get back to work!” Captain Sojung ordered in a loud voice before slamming her door shut.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” she yelled the moment you sat down in front of her desk. “It’s bad enough I had to suspend you for defying my orders, but for you to continue working the case while off the clock?”

“Boss, I managed to find Park Chaeyoung…” you said quietly.

Captain Sojung glared back at you. Many at the precinct were no strangers to be on the receiving end of the Captain’s temper. From mislabeled case files, to her podium in the briefing room being moved a full half-inch - everyone knew not to get on her bad side. Luckily for you, you never did anything that warranted to provoke her. That is, until now.

“No. You didn’t just find Park Chaeyoung. You slept with her.” Captain Sojung said in a soft, cold tone. Despite it not having the same volume level, each word is chilling and sent shivers down your spine. “I chose not to say anything about you and Jiyeon because you both promised me it wouldn’t affect your work. And if that wasn’t already enough, you slept with Jooyeon immediately after Jiyeon asked for a break. So you work the case even after I specifically told you not to. You get the Lieutenant to arrange a meeting with her liaison from the Dreamcatcher Precinct. And what do you do with her? You fuck her too! Seriously, how hard is it to not stick your dick into every female you work with? Well, am I wrong?”

You were unable to refute the Captain’s claims. The no nonsense, straightforwardness of your superior put things into perspective about what exactly happened during your one week suspension. Somehow, you managed to sleep with a different woman every day, with Bora being the only one you saw multiple times.

“No, ma’am.” you quietly reply.

“Oppa.” Sojung said. You knew that whenever she dropped the formalities, she was talking to you as a friend and not as your superior officer. You looked at her straight in the eyes and saw a hint of sadness.

“I know the breakup with Jiyeon was hard on you, as well as being on a forced suspension. I also know why you let Luda go. But you can’t use these meaningless one night stands as a coping mechanism. Sooner or later, everything is going to come crashing down. When you’re absolutely alone - all those thoughts fill your head. Trust me, I know. I’ve been through it.”

“You’ve let someone you trusted escape? You’ve gone on a date with a florist who turns out to be an internationally wanted criminal? Or you find out your Lieutenant’s liaison is someone you used to be close friends with who happens to know your ex very well?”

“Focus on the big picture here, fool.” Captain Sojung replied back angrily. “I know what it’s like to bury yourself in work after a major breakup. You can’t let it consume you.”

“Jiyeon was everything to me.”

Captain Sojung looked at you and noticed tears beginning to stream down your face. She was thankful the blinds on her window were closed, preventing curious people from snooping around to see what you two were discussing. The only sounds made were the fans inside her computer and you quietly sobbing.

“I always said she meant the world to me, Sojung. And because of one fuck up, I lost her. Do you know why I haven’t been the same that day?” you fumbled in your pocket and pulled out a small, velvet box. After handing it to the Captain, she opened it. Inside was a simple diamond engagement ring.

“I planned on bringing it up at the hospital. But once we discussed the case, I couldn’t help but accuse her of helping Luda. Maybe it was me projecting my insecurities in a negative way. I wasn’t in the right state of mind. I guess… I guess Jooyeon was there to comfort me. She’s always been so nice and I guess I was seeking solace in someone I could easily confide to. Chaeyoung was a throwaway one night stand, I’ll give you that. That still doesn’t excuse me letting her get away. But Bora… I don’t know. Have you reunited with someone from the past and felt nostalgic? Like, what if you chose them back then? How differently would your life be now? It’s just… I don’t know. Working the case and being intimate with her. I… felt something, you know? Something I thought I felt with Jiyeon. But I guess what they say is true.”

“You can never truly forget about your first love.”

--

Two flashlights are shined inside a wrecked car. The airbags were deployed with traces of blood staining the cracked windshield and driver’s side window. Upon careful inspection is a card left on the passenger’s seat. A gloved hand picks it up and places it under the flashlight.

“What do we got?” you asked, shining your own flashlight at the card.

The plain white card only has six words printed on it. Three in black, three in pink.

“Playing With Fire, See U Later!”

You take a look at your partner and reciprocate their frowned expression. It’s been five years since these types of calling cards have been left at the scene of a crime. You thought they were gone for good.

German shepherds sniffing the surrounding area for clues while the bright red and blue lights from various police cars filled the darkness of nightfall as the surrounding area was sanctioned off with yellow police tape. Considered to be the early evening for some, you were awoken from your sleep after it was reported that several gunshots and screams could be heard.

“Detectives.” someone said from behind.

You and your partner turn around and are met by a shoulder-length haired woman wearing a precinct provided windbreaker and a badge on her neck thanks to a thin chain necklace. It was hard to make out much thanks to the ample blanket of darkness but her large eyes and fair complexion gave her a glowing-like appearance. Three simple words - the woman’s ranking and her name were embroidered on the left side of her jacket. Lieutenant Ha Sooyoung.

“What is it, boss?” you asked. 

It was a nickname you bestowed upon her on your first day at the precinct. The confident aura and way she was able to lead those around her lead you to believe she was the captain of the squad. One mistakenly sent email and a slightly awkward encounter at the break room later, you learned the actual captain was away on a special mission. Expecting her to be intimidating and cold in demeanor, you were pleasantly surprised to find out she was anything but. When not on the field or consuming her various fruit flavored yogurts, Ha Sooyoung was known as a bit of a wisecrack. As much as she enjoyed cracking jokes and playing harmless pranks on people, she cared about them even more. Everyone considered her the “mom” of the precinct, willing to drop whatever she was doing and lend a willing ear to those who had concerns or just wanted to talk.

“Seems like they’ve made a comeback.” Lieutenant Sooyoung replied, holding up another calling card. The words were in all pink this time along with the quote: “Love to Hate Me, You Never Know!”. Before, the cards left behind only contained individual letters or a black or pink line on them. You weren’t sure what to make of these new ones, but knew that the criminals who were all but dormant for the past five years have resurfaced.

“Who?” your partner asked.

“It’s someone your partner here knows very well.” Lieutenant Sooyoung said, raising an eyebrow at you. Having known you the longest out of everyone in the precinct besides your partner, you confided to her about how you were transferred to your current precinct and of the various unsolved cases you had. The Lieutenant was particularly famous for her passion when it came to work but also quips and being able to come up with one-liners on the fly.

“Very amusing, boss.” you said, maintaining a calm expression while asking for the calling card in her hand. It was a piece of laminated papyrus leaf with very high quality ink used. You knew such a card would be quite expensive to make, meaning the criminals either had their own private source - or, there was a possibility to trace it to a public entity with a bit of research. “They’ve been busy.”

“I still have no idea who you guys are talking about.” your partner said.

“How have you not heard of them? They’re-” Just then, your phone began ringing. Taking it out of your pocket, you pressed the green button to accept before placing it against your ear.

“Hello? All right, I’ll be there soon.”

You end the call and place your phone back in your pocket before facing the Lieutenant and your partner. You nod to Lieutenant Sooyoung, who nods in return as she understands the current situation.

“I… gotta go. I’ll see you guys back at the precinct.” you said, patting your partner’s shoulder twice before making your exit.

“Tell them I say hi. And make sure to get the full fat strawberry yogurt.”

“I’ll make sure to bring back the durian flavored one for you, boss.”

“Hey! I will end you if you do.”

You smiled and flashed her a peace sign before getting into your car and driving off. It seems the preliminary investigation is finished as the tape is being collected and the additional backup units are also making their leave after having checked in with Lieutenant Sooyoung. Thanking the final officer for their hard work, she turns to your partner and crosses her arms. The mischievous smirk on her face is one that arouses suspicion.

“What…?” your partner asked.

“Don’t you want to know where he suddenly went off to?”

“Not particularly.”

“Still don’t want to admit it then, huh? Fine.” Lieutenant Sooyoung teased. Taking out her phone, she began scrolling for something until she stopped and showed it to your partner.

“What the fuck…” your partner said, wide-eyed. “Why are you only telling me this now!”

“Because we are professionals and on the clock, Detective Kim Jungeun.”

“Unnie…” Jungeun whined.

“Just admit you like him. You practically fell for him his first day at the precinct, remember?”

“I’d rather not.” Jungeun said, bringing her hair to her face and using it to shield her eyes.

--

Captain Sojung was able to call in a couple of favors and have you relocated to a new precinct instead of being fired. You were thankful, although it was sad having to say goodbye to a place you called home and all of the memories that were made. You noticed Jiyeon and Jooyeon didn’t attend the farewell party. Which was fair, you probably would’ve done the same if you were in their shoes.

Walking in the unfamiliar hallway of the precinct filled you with uncertainty and hesitation. It’s been awhile since you had to start over and be the new kid. The warm color tones and wavy lines on the floor put your mind at ease slightly as you go and find your assigned desk.

Greeting you when you arrive are a welcome card and the computer monitor on which displays the precinct’s logo and name underneath.

“Blockberry Precinct…” you said to yourself quietly.

Bowing your head to the few employees working next to you, you put your bag aside and immediately work on the case files assigned to you. Having to fill out a large volume of paperwork is something you humorously described yourself as “being allergic to”, but you knew it had to be done.

“Knock, knock.”

You looked up and were met by a stunning dark haired woman with bright, large eyes hidden behind a pair of gold framed glasses. The rosy pink tint of her lips were curved upwards as she smiled and handed you an unmarked hot beverage cup which you assumed contained coffee. While you wouldn’t call yourself a coffee drinker at all, you accepted it due to not wanting to get on anyone’s bad side, especially on the first day.

“Good morning.” she said cheerfully. “You must be the reassigned detective. My name is Ha Sooyoung.”

“Ah yes, hello.” you replied, standing up and greeting her with a bow. She raised both of her hands and waved them, saying there was no need to be so formal with her.

“How do you like the precinct so far? It’s not much, but it’s home.” she said, sitting on a vacant chair next to your desk. Trying your best not to stare, you couldn’t help but notice the woman who introduced herself as Ha Sooyoung wearing a cropped, tight fitting button up shirt with a black tie which showed off the contour of her breasts. Her midriff was prominently displayed due to this - fair colored skin and the cutest navel you have ever seen, as far as navels are concerned. She proudly showed off her abs that led to well-formed hips accentuated by a skin tight pair of jeans. She was the perfect combination of curves and being toned.

“Good morning, unnie!” a glassy-eyed raven haired woman greeted Sooyoung before heading to her own desk.

Watching various uniformed officers and even custodial staff saying hi to her, you knew she was of a high enough ranking. She was on the younger side appearance wise. But the mature aura she possessed and the way she knew about you led you to believe she is the captain of the precinct.

“I’d love to stay and chat some more, but duty calls.” Sooyoung suddenly said to you. She brushed off her jeans and fixed the wrinkles in her shirt before addressing you once more. “Make sure you send me that email and put the case file on my desk afterwards.”

--

The next several hours leading into your lunch break pass by relatively quickly. You were looking forward to it - trying out a new recipe you learned from watching a video, but also to have peace and quiet alone. It seemed everyone had their preferred partner for eating, something you missed about Starship Precinct. If nothing else, having established friendships and work relationships with your old squad made going into work something to look forward to.

You opened the door to the break room, peeking your head inside slowly and breathing a sigh of relief as you found it completely empty. Taking your food out of the shared refrigerator, you heat it up in the microwave. You hummed to the tone of a song that seemed familiar but you were unsure how the lyrics went. Scrolling through your phone, you didn’t hear someone else enter the room.

“Boo!”

A pair of hands are firmly planted on your shoulders. You were startled - almost dropping your phone as you fumbled to catch it. You turn around and are greeted by Ha Sooyoung covering her mouth, trying to stifle a laugh. She runs her fingers through her long, shiny hair before pushing it behind her and heading to the refrigerator.

“Mind if I join you?” she asked, peering her head to presumably look for her food.

“Not at all.”

Sooyoung smiled as she handed your meal from the microwave and replaced it with hers.

“Mind telling me why you’re eating here alone instead of going out with the others?” she said, her back towards you as she entered the time it would take to heat up her food. Even from this vantage point, you could tell she was well toned through the defined muscles on her back. You questioned to yourself internally if all captains of a police precinct got to know her detectives personally on a one-on-one basis. Sojung was the same - however the two of you already knew of each other well before either of you were ever a part of Starship Precinct.

“Not much of a social person.” you replied sheepishly. “Don’t do too well in large groups of people. Figured no one would want to hangout with the newbie.”

“I understand.” Sooyoung said, sitting in the unoccupied seat next to you. “There’s no need for you to do anything you’re uncomfortable with. I’d like to be your lunch buddy though… if you’re okay with that?”

“Yeah, I’d like that.”

“If you don’t mind me asking, what case were you working on before you came here?”

“Oh, it’s -”

“Unnie!”

The door opens once again suddenly. The sounds of loud, cheerful voices and heels clanking against the floor with each step alerted you that people have begun returning to the precinct. The person who called for Sooyoung leaned against the door frame. There was a hint of arrogance her body language was giving off - back against the wooden beam while crossing her arms. Her pearly white button up shirt was complimented with a frill scarf-like accessory that looked more like a napkin from a fine dining establishment. The blazer she wore was form-fitting: it was evident she had put in a lot of time into meticulously picking out her outfit. She appeared to be ready to hit the runway at a moment’s notice.

“Unnie, there you are. We’ve been looking all over for you!”

Sitting adjacent to the both of you, she slouched slightly in the chair. Placing her left elbow on the ear of the chair, her focus was solely on Sooyoung before she turned around and faced you.

“Oh, you must be the new rookie. Hi! It’s nice to meet you. My name is Kimberly Lippington.” she said, flipping her hair in a whirl of brown and blonde wind and extending her hand out.

“Ah yes, h-hello.” you replied timidly.

“Not this again...” Sooyoung said, shaking her head. “I’m sorry about her. She can be a handful sometimes.”

“I am not! Anyways how is your first day so far, rookie? Yeah, I remember my first day. But that was so long ago. If you need help with anything, don’t hesitate to ask me.”

“He’s actually-”

You shook your head at Sooyoung, placing your index finger in front of your lips. Sooyoung’s eyes widened as she smiled and formed an imaginary zipper with two fingers. The woman who is known as Kimberly Lippington has piqued your interest - you were curious what more else she would reveal about herself.

“How long have you been here?” you asked.

“About to be a whole year in a few weeks!” she said proudly.

“Pft, please.” Sooyoung scoffed. “Since when has four months become twelve? You’ve only been here ⅓ of the time you claim.”

“Unnie!” Kimberly Lippington whined. “You’re making me sound like an egoist!”

“I’m pretty sure you’re doing that yourself. Who was the one who described herself as the eclipse to twilight? Which, by the way, makes absolutely no sense.”

“Figures you wouldn’t understand. Only visionaries and those with a deep knowledge of the universe would. Am I right, rookie?”

The door is open for a third time today. You are thankful, breathing a sigh of relief about not having to answer her question. In walks in the same raven haired woman who greeted Sooyoung earlier in the morning. Her hair cascaded down like a waterfall - her eyes bright and expressive. The smile on her face was warm and inviting, a stark contrast to the person next to you who was slightly pompous and haughty.

“Sergeant, the captain is looking for you. She wants you to bring sunbaenim as well.” she stated, motioning her hand towards you. You rubbed the back of your head in embarrassment as Kimberly Lippington’s expression went from confident to shocked. 

“Wait, wait, wait. So you’re not a rookie?”

“Come on, Kim Jungeun. We’ll explain to you on the way.”

“Kim Jungeun...?” you asked as the three of you made your way out of the break room. “As in the Supreme Leader Kim Jungeun?”

Sergeant Ha Sooyoung burst into laughter at your sudden realization as Jungeun hit your shoulder and pushed you behind your back.

--

“You just had to reveal my real name like that, unnie. Now everyone calls me supreme leader or claps like him when I pass by!” Jungeun whined.

“Hey, it’s not my fault you introduced yourself with that ridiculous nickname. I mean seriously, who else called you that on purpose besides yourself and Jinsol?”

“I’m the one who has a ridiculous nickname?” Jungeun asked, glaring at her superior officer and raising her left eyebrow. “Correct me if I’m wrong, but I don’t think I’m the one who makes the guys I bring home call me mommy.”

“H-Hey! Guys love calling me mommy…”

“Uh huh. Keep telling yourself that, unnie.” Jungeun said, rolling her eyes in mild annoyance as she leans against the Lieutenant’s car.

“You know… Every second you’re here talking to me is another second she’s with him. If I had to take a guess - she could be confessing to him as we speak.”

No sooner had the words left Lieutenant Sooyoung’s mouth that the sound of a door being closed was heard. She peered inside and saw Jungeun crossing her arms after having put her seatbelt on.

“Come on we have to hurry unnie!”

--

The place you were called to was a cafe - one you frequent often due to its close proximity to the precinct. The interior decor provided an intimate cozy feeling, something much needed after being out in the chilly winter evening. You ordered a hot peach green tea waiting for your contact to arrive. Taking a sip of the hot liquid after blowing on it to cool it off, your throat and body begin to warm up.

“Oppa!”

You stood up and turned around, being greeted by a tight embrace. Having the wind knocked out of you slightly, you looked down and found the culprit was a cute woman whose mostly brown hair with blonde highlights tickled the bottom of your jaw. She is Jeon Heejin - someone you have gotten close to over the years. The defining traits upon looking at Heejin were her cute moles: one just below her eye and another on her right cheek.

“Hi Heekie.” you said, smiling. While Jungeun was your main partner, you have been assigned to work several cases with her before. She earned the title of senior detective by virtue of having been in the precinct the longest. Her particular nickname was bestowed upon her by the squad - an amalgamation of her given name Heejin and bunny; due to her shared physical characteristics with the animal.

“Oppa, where were you this afternoon? Lunch was so boring! I had to listen to Kim Hyunjin talk about various types of yeast and why she hates sourdough bread.” Heejin said as she pouted at you, puffing air through her nose while she made a face that looked mostly cute and less intimidating and angry. You pinched her cheeks, stretching them slightly as she adorably continued to ask you where you were.

“I’m sorry, Heej. I was a bit busy today. But why did you call me here? What’s so important you couldn’t wait to tell me tomorrow morning at the precinct?” you asked as Heejin let go of you and sat on the opposite side of the table.

“Pft, you’re no fun oppa. Always wanting to be so serious about things.” Heejin teased. “But I called you because I have some good news.”

“Remember that case we worked on last year?”

“How could I forget. Not everyday you have the scene of a murder where the main witness is a dog.”

Heejin laughed. “It was funny watching you try to communicate with the dog by barking.”

“So what is the good news you have for me, Heej?”

“Take a look.” she replied, handing you a plain manila file folder. You opened it, observing the crime scene photos and a summary about the case attached. It contained the standard briefing report - photographs of blood stains, weapon used, a trail where the victim tried to escape. You sighed while skimming through them. That is, until you reach the final photo. Upon first glance, nothing is out of the ordinary. But something catches your eye at the very bottom.

“How could we have missed this?” you asked.

“That’s what I’ve been asking myself all afternoon. Which is why I’m still mad at you for leaving me alone with Hyunjin!” Heejin pouted. Even during tense situations, she knew how to lighten the mood.

“I’m sorry, Heej.” you said, pinching her cheek softly. “Why don’t we go eat some grilled meat tomorrow? Promise.”

“Oppa.”

“Hmm?”

“The other reason why I called you here is because Sooyoung unnie and I planned something.”

“What? You and boss did?”

“We had to since you’re always so oblivious!”

“About what?” you asked with a confused look on your face.

“Oh my god.” Heejin replied, rolling her eyes. “This is why we did it. You know Lip unnie likes you right?”

You laughed. “Kim Jungeun? Likes me? You’re funny, Heekie.”

“Oppa, I’m serious! She’s been in love with you ever since your first day at the precinct.”

“That’s absurd. All she ever does is call me a pig and hit me whenever I compliment her about a case or how I like the outfit she wore on that particular day.”

“Unnie squeals so loudly and goes on and on about how she almost melted hearing you tell her she's pretty when we’re fixing our makeup in the restrooms. So I sent fake texts to Sooyoung unnie to show her saying I was planning on confessing to you right now.” Heejin cheerfully said as she showed you her phone.

“Heej, I don’t know…” you said, still doubtful about the new information you were given.

“If you don’t believe me, why don’t you ask her yourself? But do this first...” Heejin teased you, crossing her arms before grabbing your hand and placing it on the side of her head as the automatic entrance to the cafe opened.

“Jeon Heejin!”

The loud voice startled you slightly as you looked up and were indeed greeted by an angry Jungeun. Her nostrils were flared as her cheeks are a slight rosy pink. You knew she was one to wear glasses whenever she was off the clock.

“What’s sooo important that you had to call my partner away from work?”

“I have no idea what you are talking about.” Heejin said, feigning innocence.

“Don’t play dumb! I saw the texts. You know what you said!”

“Jungeun, I-”

“Be quiet.” Jungeun snapped at you. “And you. He’s my partner. Don’t try to sway him.” Before either of you could say another word, Jungeun grabbed your wrist and dragged you out of the cafe.

Once the commotion quickly subsides and both you and Jungeun are far from earshot of the cafe, Heejin smiles once more.

“Good luck Jungeun unnie. You too, oppa.”

--

Jungeun continues holding onto your wrist until the two of you find an empty bench next to a lamppost. Having had enough, you forcefully remove her hand. Massage the tender skin, you see her glaring back at you.

“Jungeun, what the hell was that? Why were you so rude to Heejin?”

“Why didn’t you tell me you were going to meet with her?”

“Why would I do that? I don’t have to report to you about my location everywhere I go. You’re my work partner Jungeun. It’s not like you’re my girlfriend...”

“You’re a jerk…” Jungeun said as you saw her eyes begin to water. It was the first time you ever saw any other emotion from her. Maybe there was indeed some truth to what Heejin told you. But it wasn’t enough. You had to probe further.

“Look, Jungeun.” you said. “I’m sorry if I came across as harsh. I didn’t tell you I was meeting with Heejin because even she didn’t tell me what it was about. All she said was to come to the cafe and that she had some information for me.”

“Yeah, right.” Jungeun said, pouting. You never knew she had such a soft, cute personality to her. Most everyone knew her as chic and curt, but caring about those closest to her. Your working relationship consisted of teasing each other and being a strong duo when it came to solving cases. Seeing her lower her defenses and be vulnerable in front of you lead you to believe she was being sincere.

“But…” you began. “You did sound pretty jealous when talking to Heejin. Is there something you aren’t telling me?”

“W-What?” Jungeun blurted out, surprise evident on her face. “Why would I be jealous?”

“I don’t know, Jungeun. Heejin and I were just talking. There was no reason for you to tell her to not try to sway me. Sway me from what, exactly?”

“What are you implying?” Jungeun asked, raising her voice. “It’s not like I l-like you or anything, p-pabo.”

“So you like me, Jungeun?” you teased.

“I never said that.” she pouted. You could tell from her refusing to look you in the eye that her words betrayed her feelings.

“Kim Jungeun.”

“What?” she said.

“Look at me, please.”

Jungeun still refused, prompting you to hold onto both sides of her shoulders and shake her slightly until her gaze met yours. You gently squeezed both of her cheeks together, causing her eyebrows to furrow as she looked at you slightly annoyed. You smiled and leaned down, pressing your lips against hers. They were extremely soft - containing a nice pink hue from her lipstick as her eyes fluttered close and allowed you to deepen the kiss.

The two of you finally disconnect after a few minutes, both of your breath could be seen thanks to the chilly evening weather. You pressed your forehead against hers as she wraps her arms around your waist. Her eyes were glistening with tears, but you knew this was different. Earlier it was because your tone was harsh, stating an obvious fact while getting Jungeun to openly admit your feelings for you. Now stood before you a completely different person, one that could take some getting used to. But also - one you were happy to get to know better.

You and Jungeun continue to look at each other lovingly as you take turns giving each other soft, sweet kisses. Still in each other’s embrace, it seems the both of you refuse to let the other go. Five years. Five years was the amount of time it took you to open your heart up again and allow someone inside. With one final kiss, Jungeun looks up at you and says something you never expected to hear from her:

“Do you want to come over?”

--

Jungeun seemed to do pretty well for herself - what with her apartment located in a private area. The elevator was large enough to contain twenty people by your estimate. The two of you hardly spoke on the ride up, occasionally smiling at each other or connecting your pinkies together.

The clear glass window gives you a wonderful sight of your partner and now soon to be a significant other. You always considered her fairly attractive, as were pretty much all of the members of the squad; but you never noticed how beautiful she truly is. The way her skin glowed even under the ugly fluorescent lighting. The way she pouted randomly just because. How she had a helix and orbital piercing that shined just as brightly as she did. Or how she scrunched her cute nose because she caught you staring at her through the reflection a little too long.

When the elevator finally dings and the doors open, Jungeun steps out first. Coolly offering her hand while still looking away you take it, interlocking your long fingers with hers. Your hand was a bit damp due to nervousness, something that Jungeun didn’t bother to point out even though you’re sure she noticed. She leads you down the long hallway, each apartment unit looking the same as the last.

No sooner had the door to her apartment closed with the familiar jingle signifying it was now locked did the two of you find yourselves in each other’s arms once more. Each kiss you gave her contained fervor as you quickly unbuttoned your shirt and helped her remove her soft-feeling sweater. She smiled at you as you gently bit her lower lip, causing Jungeun to moan. You then find your way to her neck, lightly sucking on it as your hands began to unbutton her jeans which were form-fitting to her perfectly toned body. 

You weren’t sure how different your relationship would become - having been close work partners and one of two long standing duos in the precinct, the other being Heejin and Hyunjin. Both of you took the next step to become something more. While you were no stranger to having a relationship in the workplace, you were slightly worried how this could affect the already established dynamics within the squad. The thought quickly dissipates however, as Jungeun reciprocates your kisses and starts to become a bit more aggressive.

She removes your second and final shirt before her hands fumble their way to your pants. Your hands are not idle, as they snake their way to her back and find the clip connecting her bra. Jungeun’s bust was far from big, but it proved to be an unnecessary problem. Once the silky fabric hit the floor, you were greeted by her perky breasts.

Once your pants have been unzipped and are lowered, she cups your crotch, earning herself a breathless moan from you. Both articles of clothing are removed from your body as you do the same to her own pair of jeans. All Jungeun is left in is a matching black silk thong.

“I n-normally wear panties but felt like spicing things up today.” she moaned as you pinched her nipples. Any sort of facade Jungeun was trying to put on was beginning to break as you felt them start to become erect in between your fingers.

“Are you sure you aren’t wearing them because you expected me to sleep with you?” you teased before latching back onto her neck. You soon joined Jungeun in releasing your own satisfied moans as you felt her hand grab a hold of your cock. She gave you several short strokes, going up and down as she combined twisting her hand in a corkscrew motion while grazing her thumb against your desperately leaking slit. Your breaths got heavier as the mood in the room began to increase in temperature. Jungeun skillfully removes her thong with one hand, leaving you both fully exposed to one another.

Your cock continued to throb and strengthen in Jungeun’s small hand as she kneels down on the pile of discarded clothing surrounding the both of you. She stroked your shaft several more times before running her tongue upwards and collecting the precum dribbling out of you.

“Fuck, Jungeun…”

“Do you know how badly I’ve wanted this?” she quietly said before spitting on your cock and spreading it all over with her hand that was stroking you. She puckered her lips and kissed your length, moving from your base and deepening each wet kiss until she finally reached the tip. One long, strong kiss that doubled to suck out more of your precum. She looked up at you before finally parting her lips and taking you inside her mouth for the very first time.

Jungeun’s mouth fit like a velvet sleeve on your cock - warm and wet were just some of the sensations you felt. In the same agonizingly slow pace she used while she stroked you, you looked down and saw a soft pool of blonde hair as she bobbed her head up and down your length. Placing her hands on your thighs for support, she was rewarded with soft moans and sighs of satisfaction as you felt your knees could give out from any moment as the pleasure she was giving you spread throughout your body.

It seemed like she knew just what you liked, swirling her tongue around your tip while running it against the underside of your shaft each time her head descended. Her eyes formed inverted crescents as she maintained eye contact with you. Your hands did not remain idle as you ran them through her beautiful long blonde hair. Jungeun seemed to take the hint as you felt no opposition from her end. You placed both of your hands onto the back of her head and gently guided her rhythm as she took more of your cock inside her mouth. The only sounds emanating from the two of you are your moans and heavy breathing and Jungeun’s throat gargling on your cock. You alternated between having her bob her head and you thrusting inside her mouth. These actions encourage and excite the both of you. Jungeun saliva began to seep out of her lips and thoroughly coat you as her nails dug into your skin. You pushed the back of her head down all the way to your base and released a noiseless scream as her eyes looked up at you in satisfaction. Your orgasm arrives without warning. Feeling your cock throb inside her mouth, you explode in her mouth with long pulses. Thick ropes of hot semen paint a work of unseen art as Jungeun giggles, causing her tongue to vibrate against the underside of your length. Despite the two of you not wanting the moment to end, Jungeun tapped on your thighs to release your hold on her. She withdraws her head inch by inch as you admire the glistening caused by her saliva as it drips onto the floor. She opens her mouth and lets you admire her draining your balls. Swishing it around her mouth several times, she tilts her head up to show your load going down her beautiful neck and throat. Humming in satisfaction, she sticks her tongue at you - evidence that she has consumed it all. You helped Jungeun onto her feet as her legs wobble slightly. She smiles at you and grabs a hold of your shaft once more, stroking you several more times before dragging you into her bedroom.

When the two of you reach the bed, you gently push Jungeun on her back. You admired the glow of her skin as a thin layer of perspiration caused it to glisten. Her heavenly moans filled your ears as you kissed upward on her thighs, taking a bit more time on the inner creases before making your way towards her awaiting pussy. The heat radiating from it is enticing - watching how wet she was caused you to sink your head lower. Jungeun realizes what you are doing and holds onto both sides of your face.

“You can eat me out later, baby.” she moaned. “I can’t wait anymore. I want you inside me. P-Please.”

You rose from between her legs and repositioned yourself in front of her entrance. Grabbing a hold of your shaft, you slapped her slightly splayed lips with the tip of your cock. Jungeun whimpered as you teased her a bit more in order to lubricate yourself. Holding onto her thighs, you spread them apart and create another first moment for you both as you enter her.

The soft silky flesh greets your cock kindly greets you as a sudden rush of sensations overloads your body at once. Her walls grip onto you tightly, almost refusing to let you go. You felt your cock throbbing inside her as it continued to squeeze you for dear life.

“Oh my god…” Jungeun breathlessly said.

You give her several shallow thrusts, allowing her to adjust to you - which was much easier said than done as her pussy’s tightness made it a bit difficult to withdraw from. Once the initial hurdle was crossed, it became easier to fuck Jungeun as your cock began to be lubricated. Her bed softly creaked in rhythm to your thrusts as the two of you looked in each other's eyes. She wrapped her feet around your waist and used her strength to pull you down on top of her.

Jungeun’s eyes were filled with desire - but also genuine happiness towards you. The two of you give each other a weak smile before connecting your lips once more. While your tongues get acquainted once more, Jungeun moans in your mouth with each and every thrust of your cock. She playfully runs her fingers through your hair as your palms hold onto the bed below for support. Noticing your stamina was slowly starting to deplete, Jungeun places her hands on your chest and softly pushes you off her body. As you look at her with confusion, she smiles and motions for the both of you to trade places.

Jungeun straddles your lap before laying on top of you. She reaches below and rubs your tip against her pussy before having it return back inside her. The wet and warm walls caused you to moan louder than you expected as she pushes her tiny cute butt against your lower body. This position allowed you to pinch her hardened nipples once more as she fucked herself on top of you.

The sweet honey inside her body glazed your cock in a familiar sweetness as it made each entrance inside her silky walls extremely smooth and effortless. She interlocked her toes with yours as the sounds of her bed and your skin smacking with each other began to increase in volume.

“Baby…” Jungeun managed to moan out.

She tilted her head slightly, asking for a kiss as you continued to stimulate her nipples while she fucked herself against you. Feeling her pussy’s walls pulsate, you knew it wouldn’t be too much longer until Jungeun’s orgasm arrived. Several more thrusts on you was all it took - Jungeun screamed loudly as her toes squeezed yours while her silky flesh did the same to your cock. You pinched her erect nipples and raised your hips to push your cock inside her as a steady stream of vulgar language and erotic moans escaped Jungeun’s lips.

“Baby… that was… f-fuck…” Jungeun said in a half moan, half laugh as the sweat on her back stained your chest. Having used her remaining energy, you watched as her eyes showed exhaustion - and a desire for more. Each kiss sent an electric-like current into her spine as you feel her walls still pulsating. Her body unconsciously pushes back against you. Holding onto her hips, you removed Jungeun from your cock. Both of you moaned at the loss of each other’s warmth as your shaft glistened with her sweet juices. Giving her time to rest before going again, Jungeun is on top of you - both of you holding one another as you rub her back and give each other kisses.

“You did so well, Jungeun.”

She holds your face, rubbing her pussy lips against your cock as she gives your forehead a peck. She moves on and does the same to each of your cheeks. Then, your nose. Once she captures your lips once more, biting your lower lip tells you she is ready to go.

Jungeun removes off your body and gets into position in front of you on her hands and knees. Though she wasn’t curvy like others in the precinct - or a complete gym rat like the Lieutenant, she still had a lot to be proud of. You kissed her back several times before holding onto her hips.

“I want to make sure we can’t get out of bed tomorrow, baby.” Jungeun said, turning her head back towards you.

You felt the breath leave your body as you entered her once more. You didn’t think it was possible, but Jungeun felt even wetter and tighter from behind. Holding onto her wrists, you began to fuck her once more. Her orgasm made it so that the hot flesh kept you trapped between its velvety silk walls.

“Fuck, baby…”

Jungeun’s moans of pleasure caused you to increase your rhythm as her bed creaked in silent protest. Neither of you said anything, too lost in the moment as your shaft throbbed inside her. Her upper body gave out as you saw her bury her face into the silk bed sheets below.

“I-I’m cumming…” you moaned to say as the pressure inside you was unable to be suppressed any longer. You grabbed her arms and raised her body once more as she began to push her beautiful backside against you.

“M-Me too, baby.”

Using your final amount of energy, you fucked Jungeun as fast as you could. Her loud, needy moans and the bed frame creaking loudly only motivated you to increase the pace even more. With one final thrust, you joined Jungeun in ecstasy as you erupted for the second time of the night. Her walls tightened deliciously around you as you felt that she too succumbed to another orgasm. You gave her several weak thrusts in order to ensure that you have fully emptied yourself inside her.

The two of you gasped and panted heavily as you both collapsed onto the bed. Jungeun managed to turn herself around - mirroring the same position she was at previously. Giving each other satisfied, loving kisses, she straightened her back as the two of you watched her splayed pink lips release their vice-like grip on your cock. Your semen and her juices were mixed together as they ran down her beautiful thighs and onto your own and formed a pool on the bed sheets.

“Baby… that was so intense.” Jungeun said, her voice barely above a whisper.

“It was amazing.” you replied, tucking several loose strands of her hair behind her ears before running your fingers through her golden locks.

“Want to go another round in the shower?” Jungeun asked. And although you wanted nothing more than to satisfy her request, you wanted to savor the current moment with her a bit more.

“We’ll have plenty of time for that. Why don’t we take a nap first?” you said, wrapping your arms and pulling her in for a hug. Jungeun giggles as she laid her head on your arm. The two of you looked at each other - her eyes glistened with happiness as she brought you closer to her. Another kiss. It was a seal of sorts; assuring one another that you were now partners in more ways than one.

--

A dark brown haired woman enters a relatively fashion forward boutique. She garnered stares from the employees and a few patrons - partly due to her beauty, and partly because she was wearing sunglasses at night. Black knee high boots, form fitting black jeans and a black sweater that outline the curvature of her breasts were complemented by her bright red lips and a red zippered leather jacket. A slightly intimidating aura radiated from her. Running her fingers through the various clothes, she eyed each one as an employee slowly approached her.

“Can I help you find something, ma’am?”

She turned around and smiled. “I’m looking for a gift to give my boyfriend. Something to welcome him home with.”

As the employee bows and goes to the computer to find what would, the wind chime on top of the door makes noise as it is opened. The sounds of high heels echo loudly with each confident step. They stop behind the woman who raises her head in acknowledgement, but does not turn around.

“I was wondering when you were going to show up.”

“I’m here to take back what’s mine. I’m here for him.”

[jeonronwoo]

𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫-𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬 → 𝐂.𝐒𝐂

Pairings: Non idol!Seungcheol x female!reader

Word Count: 5.3k

Warnings: Strict parents, mentions of Violence, gunshot, suicide.

Genre: Romeo and Juliet!AU, Angst.

Summary: “You never thought you would fall for your sworn enemy, you know this only happens in movies, and that was real life. But destiny had other plans for you.”

a/n: i have already posted this before, but i decided to repost it because the old one had a lot of errors and i wasn’t happy with it, anyways i hope you like this one better and please give me feedback i would love to heart what you guys think of it. enjoy. ♡

You looked at your reflection in the mirror and almost started crying, you felt pathetic, you never knew why your parents wanted you to get married so soon, you were still twenty-two years old, you had plenty of time to find the right husband for you, you were just starting your life, you don’t want to get married anytime soon.

A knock on the door brought your attention back, you took a deep breath and closed your eyes trying to prevent the tears from flowing down your cheeks. You allowed the person at the door to enter, you saw your brother, Jeonghan standing there when he saw you and smiled.

Jeonghan was the only person in your family that truly didn’t want you to suffer, he always protected you and made sure that none of your parents harmed you in any way even if it was by using their harsh words. You were thankful to have Jeonghan in your life, if it weren’t for him you wouldn’t have made it this far.

“Well look at you, don’t you look pretty?” Jeonghan said smiling, you smiled weakly back, he frowned and sighed. He saw right through you, he knew don’t want to do this, and he wishes he could help you. He took your hand in his and patted it. “Don’t worry, I’ll be there every step of the way, and besides, the boy downstairs is actually pretty nice. Trust me.” Jeonghan assured.

You trusted your brother, you looked at him for reassurance, when he smiled nodding, you sighed and linked your arms with his and went downstairs. You descended the stairs and saw your parents having the time of their life with your soon-to-be fiancé. You rolled your eyes mumbling,

“Why don’t they marry him instead.”

You and Jeonghan walked inside the living room and your parents’ attention turned to you, they smiled and the man turned around, once he saw you he smiled widely and stood up. He was handsome you had to give him that, and he didn’t look like the rest of the rich kids you know. He walked over to you and held out his hand, you were thinking he was going to shake your hand, but when you held out your hand, he placed a soft kiss on your knuckles.

“Nice to finally meet you, I’m Joshua.” the man said and you faked a smile. Now you understand why, he has good manners, no wonder why your parents and Jeonghan like him very much, he was a true gentleman.

“Likewise, I’m Y/N.” you said and he smiled and let go of your hand. You stood still waiting for your parents’ orders, not wanting to anger them, the last thing you wanted right now was being shouted at.

“Joshua offered to take you out on a date so you can get to know each other better, what do you say?” your father asked and you kept your hard gaze ahead of you.

“As you wish, father,” you answered and he smiled pleased with your answer.

“Very well then, off you go.” your father said, giving Joshua his approval.

You turned your head to look at Jeonghan who smiled reassuringly, you then turned your head to Joshua who held his arm out for you, you linked his arm with his silently and watched him smile.

“I will have her home by the time of her curfew.” Joshua promised and your parents smiled.

“Enjoy yourselves, kids! Have fun.” your mother said waving at you smiling widely.

You left the house and saw Joshua’s car parked in front of it, like the typical rich kids, he had a fancy car, he opened the door for you and you smiled and entered buckling your seatbelt, he closed the door and walked to his side and got in and buckled his seatbelt as well and started driving.

***

You sat in front of Joshua who was talking about his business, you didn’t care honestly, you were tired of the same topic being spoken by your father, and here you thought you were going to have fun. Joshua noticed how tensed and bored you were and blushed in embarrassment.

“I’m rambling and boring you, aren’t I?” he asked his voice small, and you felt bad, you shook your head smiling a little to assure him.

“No no, you aren’t I just zoned out, I tend to do this a lot, it happens and I don’t know how.” you lied smoothly and he smiled relieved, believing your lie.

His phone rang and he looked at it his eyes widening, he looked at you and excused himself to answer it throwing a bunch of apologies before going to answer it.

You looked around bored as hell, your eyes fell upon a boy who seemed to be around Jeonghan’s age, he was having a drink with a girl, and he looked as bored as you did with Joshua. His eyes met yours and he stared at you titling his head to the side before smiling.

You turned your head quickly and looked back at your glass. After a moment or so, you heard someone clearing their throat when you looked up you saw the boy you were looking at earlier standing in front of you.

“May I ask what a beautiful girl like you doing here all alone?” he asked and you raised your eyebrow at him, his bluntness surprising you.

“Shouldn’t I be the one asking you this?” you asked and he let out a chuckle.

“Sassy? I like it. It’s not every day I meet a rich girl this way. But that’s not what I’m here for.” he said and sat in Joshua’s seat in front of you.

“Excuse me, but I don’t think I invited you to sit down,” you said looking around for Joshua who was taking too much to answer his phone.

“My name’s Choi Seungcheol, and I couldn’t help but notice how miserable you looked sitting with the guy you were sitting with earlier. I know because you have the same look I’m wearing sitting with the girl I came with. So, I say we ditch both of them. What do you say?” Seungcheol asked, you looked at him shocked but smiled teasingly.

“And what makes you think I will say yes?” you asked and he smiled back liking your confidence by every passing second.

“I don’t, but I promise I’m more fun than the rest of the rich kids,” he said winking.

You weren’t that naïve to leave with a boy you just met, you sat back and put on your hard gaze once more and simply gave him the answer to his offer.

“No.”

Seungcheol didn’t seem shocked by your answer and that’s what made you confused, he smiled and simply stood up and giving you one last smile and said before leaving.

“You’re going to be trapped for the rest of your life if you don’t stand up for yourself. Make your own rules, don’t follow them if you don’t like them, you don’t need anymore breaking, you’re already damaged.”

With that Seungcheol left and your eyes following him as he returned to his table once more, his words hitting you hard, was it that hard for you to cover how broken you were? Or did he really saw through you?

“I’m so sorry for being late, it was just my father,” Joshua said but you didn’t listen to him, Seungcheol’s words ringing in your ear loudly.

***

It’s been a week since your last date with Joshua and also meeting Seungcheol, you couldn’t get him or his words out of your head, it seemed like he saw right through you, was he that good at reading people or it was obvious that he heard your screams for help? Either way, you really wanted to meet him again. You googled his name and turns out that he was the son of the founder of Choi Enterprises. Your father’s biggest rival.

Cliché isn’t it? How you were bound to meet the son of the rival family, and it turns out that you were interested in one another. But that wasn’t going to stop you from meeting him again. You already had everything planned, you were going to ask your friend, Sojung to help you.

You put on your shoes and grabbed your phone and some cash to go and meet Sojung. Luckily your parents liked her enough to let you hang out with her but to be honest, you think it’s because they want Jeonghan to marry her, but that wouldn’t happen because Jeonghan already have a girlfriend and they loved each other so much.

You saw your mother looking at you with a raised eyebrow as she saw you getting ready to leave, “And where do you think you’re going?” your mother asked and you turned to her with a fake smile you replied,

“I’m meeting Sojung for lunch.”

Your mother looked at you sceptically before nodding letting you know that she was okay with it, you smiled and looked at Jeonghan and then at his car keys. He looked back at your mother making sure that she wasn’t looking then gave you a nod to take the car keys.

You quickly left the house and got in the car and drove away before anyone sees you driving your brother’s car. You heard your phone ding and you grabbed it and saw a message from Sojung telling you where you can find Seungcheol. You smiled and thanked her and drove to the location she sent.

***

You arrived in front of a bar, you shivered with excitement and took a deep breath before getting out of the car to enter the bar. Once you entered, your eyes wandered around the place with awe, it was the first time you ever went to a bar, so you were unfamiliar with the place. Your eyes fell upon Seungcheol who was sitting alone on a chair, you smiled and fixed your hair and walked over to him.

“Is this seat taken?” you asked, he turned around slowly but once he saw you he smiled his dimples decorating his cheeks causing your heart to almost melt, he took a sip of his beer.

“Looks like I was right from the beginning,” he said chuckling slowly causing you to get confused.

“Pardon?”

He shook his head with a smile and motioned for you to sit on the chair next to him. You both were silent for a few moments, you honestly didn’t know what to say and started wondering why you were here in the first place. Seungcheol noticed your small dilemma and decided to help you.

“You know, I didn’t quite catch your name,” he said and you looked at him with a smile grateful that he decided to cut the tension between the two of you.

“Oh, it’s Y/N, Yoon Y/N.” you answered and he laughed sarcastically.

“Silly fate, the daughter of my father’s sworn enemy sitting down with me right now. I assume you already know that we’re supposed to be enemies right?” he said and you smiled tilting your head to the side.

“I thought you make your own rules.” you said causing him to crack a smile in interest impressed by you.

“Using my own words against me, I’m genuinely impressed.” Seungcheol said causing you to smile, the barista returned and Seungcheol said, “A glass of wine for the lady please, you drink right?” he asked and you nodded.

The barista returned and handed you your glass, you smiled thanking him then turned to look at Seungcheol. You two talked back and forth and you felt yourself loosen up. Seungcheol was a really fun person to be around, and he was very interesting and not a stuck up like almost all of the rich kids were. He had a good heart, and you admired him and the way he was talking about what he loves making you feel warm inside.

He also asked you about your interests and you started talking about them enthusiastically happy that you found someone who found what you were doing fun, and interesting. You felt like you know each other for years, and you loved how comfortable you were with him. You were sitting with someone who understood how you felt, you relaxed knowing that you weren’t the only one miserable from the life you were born in.

It’s been two months since you met Seungcheol, and you started to date secretly, you loved him with all your heart and he loves you just as much, you couldn’t ignore your feelings towards each other, and he decided to ask you to be his girlfriend. He was there for you and always risked everything you ever dreamt of, he took care of you and was always there for you and made you happy.

The only one who knew you were dating is Jeonghan because he noticed how happy you became lately, and also he may or may not have caught you making out with Seungcheol on your bed. Although he was surprised seeing you with him and reminded you that neither of your family is going to accept your relationship. Nevertheless, he was really happy that you finally found happiness and he also became good friends with Seungcheol.

You sat at the dining table next to your brother, and across from your mother. You looked at your father and noticed that he was absolutely pissed, you didn’t know why but you could tell that it was from business.

“Jagi? Are you alright?” your mother asked and your father looked at her his eyes held fire and answered.

“No, Choi fell ill and now his son has taken control over the business, that boy made me lose my clients and goods!”

You bit your lip to stop yourself from smiling, you were proud that he proved everybody who doubted him and said that he wouldn’t make a good CEO and underestimated him. The biggest proof in front of you was how angry your father was.

“What? His son is now the CEO?” Jeonghan asked completely surprised, looking at you with confusion and you nodded, your small encounter going unnoticed by your parents.

“Yes, and looks like he isn’t as stupid as we thought, he knows what he is doing.” your father replied and you said absent-mindedly,

“He must be proud of himself.”

Your eyes widened and before you could take back what you said, you saw how all your family looked at you in utter shock at the words you have spoken. You panicked when you saw how your father was staring at you.

“I mean that he must be proud that he beat a good enterprise like yours? father, he can boast about how he is now keeping up with the Yoon Enterprises.” you explained trying to save yourself.

“I agree! But we can’t let him enjoy himself that much.” Jeonghan backed you up. You looked at your father who seemed to be convinced by your words.

“Aren’t you such a smart girl Y/N? You would make a good CEO.” your father praised and you smiled relieved.

“I learnt from the best, father,” you replied and continued eating your food.

You ate in silence for the rest of dinner, you were too scared to say anything stupid again and wouldn’t be able to get out of it easily. Your father suddenly spoke up,

“By the way, tomorrow night we’re meeting Joshua’s family,” your father announced and you looked at him blinking and internally groaned.

“What for?” You asked.

“Because tomorrow you will officially be engaged to Joshua.” your father replied and you dropped your fork.

You looked at Jeonghan who was looking at your father, you kept your mouth firmly shut. You silently stood up excusing yourself saying that you were going to sleep and went to your room. You paced around the room not knowing what to do. You couldn’t get married to Joshua, you already had a boyfriend whom you love very much. You grabbed your phone and sent Seungcheol a message telling him to meet you at your secret spot.

You knew he was going to be furious with the news, but you had no option, your father would never let you marry him. He was the same boy that your father was angry with not thirty minutes ago. You have an idea as to why he wanted you to marry Joshua faster, he wanted to be partners with Joshua’s father so they can take down Seungcheol’s enterprise.

When the clock hit eleven-thirty, you were already climbing down the tree planted in front of your window and descended it gracefully. When you were on your feet you quickly ran away from your house. You saw Seungcheol’s car parked at the end of the street, you ran faster towards it and when you reached it opened the door of the passenger seat.

“Let’s go,” you said and buckled your seatbelt looking back to make sure no one saw you running away. Seungcheol drove away quickly.

***

You sat in front of Seungcheol your head down as he paced back and forth in front of you in frustration and not thinking straight. You looked up at him to see he was gripping on his hair tightly. You just told him the news about you marrying Joshua and he wasn’t pleased.

“No way, you’re not going to marry him. No, over my dead body.” Seungcheol finally spoke up. You looked at him and sighed running a hand through your hair.

“It doesn’t work like that Cheol, I can’t just go to my father and tell him I don’t want to get married, he will kill me,” you said trying to think of another idea, Seungcheol sat on his knees in front of you and taking your hands in his.

“I can go to your father and tell him that I want to marry you, you know how much I love you, Y/N.” he said looking into your eyes and kissed your hands and you answered weakly.

“My father literally hates you.”

“I know, but I don’t care, you’re the only person that matters the most to me in life, I would drop everything just to be with you,” he said and kissed your lips lovingly. You put your hands on either side of his face and kissed him passionately.

You wanted nothing more than to be with him, but how can you do that? Your father was very strict and what he wanted he got. He didn’t care that he was sacrificing his daughter’s happiness for the sake of his business. And besides Joshua didn’t deserve this, he doesn’t deserve a wife whose heart was with another man. You considered him as your friend and you didn’t want to hurt him. You pulled away from Seungcheol and rested his forehead against yours.

“I just want to ask you to run away with me, but I don’t think you would want that,” he said and you closed your eyes.

He was right, you couldn’t just drop everything and run away with him, even if the idea sounded so nice and tempting, but you can’t just go and leave everything behind, you couldn’t leave Jeonghan behind, he was the only one who supported you and you didn’t want to disappoint him or put him in front of your parents and be their punching bag.

“I’m so sorry Cheol, you know I would if I could. But I can’t leave everything behind, I can’t leave Jeonghan alone.” you said and he nodded understanding your point. “But I can postpone this ‘engagement’ as much as I can, and I will ask Jeonghan to help me,” you promised and he nodded smiling.

“And I’m not going to let you slip away from me easily, even if it meant I had to fight the whole world just to be with you.” Seungcheol said and you kissed him.

This time you kissed him feverishly and he replied your kiss with the same passion getting on top of you running his hand all over your body taking your clothes off piece by piece as the two of you made love the whole night.

***

It was dawn, the sun still coming up, you climbed into your room and it was dark, you opened the lights so you can take your clothes off. But was surprised when you saw your father sitting on the sofa. Your heart dropped in your stomach and your breath hitched, your father stood up and walked towards you, you backed up until your back hit your wardrobe.

“May I know where have you been?” your father asked his voice as cold as ice, you tried to control your breath but couldn’t, it was too late to come up with a lie, and you’re sure that he knows everything by now.

“N-Nowhere.” you replied. Your father raised his hand to slap you across the face and you flinched closing your eyes, however, though you didn’t feel anything. You opened your eyes and saw your brother holding your father’s arm.

“No father, you aren’t going to lay a finger on her, not as long as I’m alive,” Jeonghan said dangerously and hid you behind his back. Your father stared at him wide-eyed scaring you.

“You dare to go against me? Your father?” your father asked in disbelief and this time he slapped Jeonghan across the face. You cried as you saw your brother but he held you back, your father yanked Jeonghan and you had to watch your brother getting beaten up by your own father.

Your father grabbed him by his shirt and threw him on the floor, hitting him over and over again bruises forming already. You tried to pull your father away from him but it was in vain. Your mother walked in with a panicked look on her face and gasped when she saw the scene in front of her.

“Y/F/N! What are you doing?! This is your son! Leave him!” your mother cried as she pushed your father away. You were quick to pull Jeonghan away from the scene and dragged him to your closet locking the door.

You heard banging on the door but you didn’t care, you looked at Jeonghan who had bruises all over his face and arms, and you were sure he also had bruises on his body, but they were covered. You put your hand over your mouth grabbed the cotton from the cupboard along with some alcohol that you kept there in case. You grabbed a plushie and rested Jeonghan’s head on it as you cleaned up his wounds.

“I’m sorry, I’m so sorry Jeonghan, please forgive me.” you said crying, Jeonghan was too weak to answer. When you finished he had his eyes closed. You didn’t want him to sleep on the floor, it wouldn’t be good for him when he is like that.

Your phone rang and you got it out and saw it was Seungcheol, you answered immediately crying hard.

“Seungcheol.”

“Baby girl?! What happened? Are you alright?!” he asked frantically, you just cried harder and looked at your brother.

“He knows, my father, he tried to slap me but Jeonghan stopped him and he beat him up bad, I’m so scared, Cheol,” you said and he was quick to soothe you.

“Don’t worry baby, I will come to get you both right now, you’re not staying with this monster,” he replied and your eyes widened.

“No, Seungcheol, listen to me! He is going to kill you if he saw you!” you said already thinking of the worst scenarios.

“I don’t care, as long as you’re safe and sound, I can take care of myself,” Seungcheol said and you shook your head crying again.

“No! You don’t understand he is going to be furious, don’t worry about me, just please don’t come, I don’t want to lose you! I wouldn’t be able to live if something bad happened to you.” you said and you heard him sigh from the other side of the phone.

“I’m sorry Y/N, but I promised to protect you till my last breath, and I’m staying true to my words.”

And with that, the line went dead.

***

You sat anxiously on the floor still locked in the closet, Jeonghan started to gain back his consciousness and he tried to sit up but couldn’t, so you helped him to sit.

“I’m so sorry Hanni, I did this to you, I’m so sorry," you said and he tried to brush your tears but couldn’t. He was about to say something but someone knocked on the door hard.

You gasped and got closer to Jeonghan, you were scared that it might be your father, but suddenly you heard the familiar voice that you loved so much.

“Y/N? Baby, open the door, it’s me, Seungcheol.”

You stood up and unlocked the door and threw yourself in Seungcheol’s arms as you cried and held onto him tightly never wanting to let go. He tried to calm you down, it broke his heart to see you this vulnerable, you were never like that. He pulled away from you softly.

“Come on, come with me! I won’t leave you here, let me get Jeonghan and then we will leave and never come back.” Seungcheol said and you nodded and quickly with the help of Seungcheol you were able to help Jeonghan stand up.

Jeonghan let out a cry of pain and Seungchoel draped his arm around his neck and you did the same to the other arm.

“What about my father?” you asked worriedly.

“He is locked in the basement, we have to hurry now!” Seungcheol replied.

The three of you walked so you don’t hurt Jeonghan, you reached the front door and opened it and you were about to leave but were stopped by the voice of your father’s.

“If you take another step I will shoot you.”

You turned around slowly and gasped, Jeonghan tried to push you behind him but you didn’t leave his side. Seungcheol stopped in front of the two of you.

“Drop that gun, I don’t want to hurt you,” Seungcheol said dangerously, your father laughed creepily and honestly you were scared, you’ve never seen him like this before.

“You think you can threaten me in my own house boy? You’re stupid to think that my kids will go with you. So, I suggest you walk out of the door now or else you’ll get a bullet in your skull.” your father said and you looked at him crying.

Seungcheol didn’t seem intimidated, so he just grabbed your hand and turned around, from the corner of your eye you saw your father raising his gun and aiming it at your lover, you gasped and hugged Seungcheol tightly and turned your back to your father, the bullets piercing through your back.

“Y/N! No!”

You fell on the floor and Seungcheol fell with you and let out a loud cry, he hugged your body close to him. Jeonghan was screaming in rage, Seungcheol quickly got his phone to call the ambulance. You held his hand and tasted the metallic liquid, Seungcheol was crying waterfalls, he held you close to him.

“It’s okay,” you whispered, he shook his head his bottom lip trembling, as he cried looking at you not believing this happened.

“No, it’s not! You shouldn’t have done that, it’s me who is supposed to protect you. I promised you, and now you made me break my promise! This all my fault,” he said and you raised your hand weakly to wipe away his tears.

“Don’t blame yourself, love. I have never been more okay than now, please stop crying. It’s okay, I don’t feel any pain. I want to thank you for making these past two months the most amazing time of my life, you truly made me happy. I love you so much, Seungcheol.” you said and he cried harder and kissed your forehead.

“I love you more baby.” he said. Jeonghan bent down weakly and you looked at him smiling slightly,

“Don’t cry Hannie, please. Thank you for everything you’ve done for me, I couldn’t ask for a better brother.” You whispered, let his tears fall before pressing a kiss to your cheek.

“You deserve the world, Y/N. And even though I wasn’t the best brother, god knows how much I love you.” Jeonghan said.

You smiled at him and a loud scream erupted and you saw your mother who was finally able to get out from the room your father locked her in, when she saw you she ran towards you trying to stop the bleeding. She felt so guilty, but she knows it was too late to apologise, she wished she had treated you better and gave you the happiness that she was supposed to give you as her duty as a mother.

“No no not my baby please, I’m so sorry baby please forgive me, I’m so sorry please, anyone but her no, please! She is just a girl!” she yelled and you smiled patting her hand that was holding yours.

“It’s too late for that mother, but I forgive you.” you whispered as Seungcheol held you tightly against his chest.

You looked back at your father who was down on his knees not believing what he just did. You stared at him for a while before coughing up blood which made him cry knowing what he just did, you looked at Seungcheol and smiled. You closed your eyes as darkness washed over you. Unable to hear the loud cries of Seungcheol who just lost the person he loves the most in the world.

Seungcheol stood in front of your glass coffin with a dead look in his eyes. His heart stopped beating the moment yours did, he was no longer the boy you fell in love with. He eyed you and smiled slightly, you looked peaceful as if you were sleeping, your pink dress and simple makeup made you look like Aurora from Sleeping Beauty.

“I’m sorry I broke my promise baby, I’m sorry that I couldn’t protect you. I miss you already, but that’s no problem now because I’m going to be with you.” Seungcheol said smiling as he drank the small bottle of poison.

He kissed your lips for the last time in his life and waited for a couple of moments until the effectiveness of the poison kicked in. Suddenly, he started to feel like he was being stabbed in his whole body, he let out a cry and fell on the floor next to you, despite being in unimaginable pain, he still wore a smile on his face knowing that he was going to meet you. Seungcheol closed his eyes happy that he will be reunited with you again.

Jeonghan entered the church with a bouquet of flowers, his girlfriend, Miyoung next to him trying to comfort him as much as she can, he didn’t know what was waiting for him once he stepped inside and saw the body lying on the floor.

Jeonghan gasped running towards the body to check who that was, he saw it was Seungcheol and started crying when he saw the bottle in his hand, Miyoung called the priest telling him what happened. Jeonghan looked at his sister then at her lover who was lying on the floor with a smile on his face he spoke.

“Because they couldn’t be together in this life and he couldn’t be without her, he decided that they should be together in the afterlife. Wherever the two of you are, I hope you’re both together and happy.”

[seoracle]

DRIVERS LICENSE; i

Pairing: Bang Chan x Idol! Gender Neutral Reader

Genre: Fake Dating! AU, Angst, Lovers to Enemies(?), Occasional Pining, Comedy, S for potential smut(??)

Summary: Y/N has become an overnight sensation with ‘Drivers License’, Breaking records left and right...But what if the press gets wind of the ill-matched lovers and their company decide it’s the perfect attention ploy?

Word Count: 3.2K

Warnings: Swearing (a lot near the end), Drinking mention

A/N: this was meant to be a drabble... now it’s becoming a series...i’m sorry

“...and the winner of Inkigayo today is...Y/N with ‘Drivers License, Congratulations!”

You step towards the center of the stage and take the trophy and bouquet from a rookie idol, who flashes a bright smile at you, but you can see the envy in his eyes. You once had that same hunger and ambition that he seems to reek of, it’s a reminder of how far you’ve come.

Taking the mic, you begin to sing a more sultry and edgier vibe than usual, which seems to gather more screams from fans than usual. You remember what Seulgi taught you and gaze at the camera lens with a subtle pout, trying to capture the angst of the song in your gaze.

It feels ridiculous, feigning emotions you no longer feel, singing a song you begged the company not to put out in a corset fitted shirt that’ll leave your ribs sore and reddened. It’s pathetic and cliche, you quite literally sold your soul (well, heart) for fame. 

“Yeah, you said forever, now I drive alone past your street…”

Everyone behind you waves at the camera, signalling the show is ending. You leave last, taking several confetti bits for your scrapbook, which is the only thing keeping you from remembering this is all real. 

Backstage, Iris and San are waiting in your dressing room, they greet you with proud grins and slaps on the back. 

“Well, if it isn’t miss twelve...no, thirteen wins in two weeks.” San praises, enveloping you in a hug.

“Could be thirteen by tomorrow~” Hums Iris in a sing-song tone.

A groan leaves your lips, while slumping into an uncomfortable chair. You tune out their excited plans for your makeup and hair tomorrow, San says something about an end of year Award show.

All you want is to go home to your empty dormitory and sleep.

When you finally arrive to the ‘comfort’ of your ‘studio apartment’ (box room), it isn’t long before you strip down to your pyjamas and aggressively rub off the layers of makeup that seem to cling to every pore and fine line of your face. The cold air from the fan soothes the aching of your body from your strict workout routine. You stay awake until 4am, reading comments from netizens and replying to fans on your fancafe, it  was hard not to become obsessed with checking what people thought; whether they loved or loathed you.

[+184 -93] Y/N is talented, but they look devoid of emotion since last week...maybe singing a song so personal isn’t a good idea….what if the person it’s about hears it…..

User FYL**8 was right, it had become draining trying to convey emotions you’d long let go of. Your debut song was fresh and fun, it didn’t garner much attention but at least you hadn’t had to fake emotions and relive your first heartbreak.

Although the memories of the breakup didn’t hurt as much, the happiest ones were the most painful. The feeling of ignorance, thinking he meant forever and believing him completely...it was all so distant yet felt a fingertip away.

That night you slept with a heavy heart, remembering what it felt like when he’d hold you close and right and kiss you on the head to soothe your worries. Why did it have to end? Why like that? You try to drift into a nice sleep after another exhausting day but to no avail, thoughts of him are flooding every thought. Has he heard it? There was no way he hadn’t, he loved to check out every ranking song for inspiration or for another artist to add to his monthly playlist. 

Would he get angry? Sad? Laugh at your pathetic feelings? He was right in the end, when it came down to it you only shared your feelings when it was too late.

Stupid Christopher fucking Bang.

It wasn’t often you’d refer to him as Chan, you had met him when he only saw it as another name for himself that he hardly used. Back when his hair had been fluffed up curls that he couldn’t contain and his light freckles weren’t covered by BB Cream. When he didn’t belong to the world and only loved you.

After months of forcing yourself not to, you hastily search “Stray kids Bang Chan + Y/N”, Then “Stray Kids Y/N” and finally “Skz Y/N”. The results are minimal and far inbetween, mostly tweets from fans wishing for a collab and oddly enough one person making edited photos of you and them, which are so convincing you have to remind yourself you hadn’t met them.

Thoughts drift to his friends, the ones who didn’t know Chris was even seeing someone and had been for over a year. They tried to sugarcoat it, say they forgot, it’s hard to keep track when you’re training and all that. 

The sinking feeling you felt when Minho asked how long you’d been together, guessing a month at most. When you did reply, ears burning with embarrassment he coughed and muttered “Oh.’, That had stung.

Everything had seemed so perfect, until you opened your eyes and saw it for what it was.

You don’t end up sleeping much, two hours at most, Then it’s time to get ready and head to the Broadcast Studio for today’s event. All you know is it’s a show about giving advice, the reviews aren’t great but you aren’t allowed to turn anything down because fame is a double-edged sword that you can barely grasp as is.

Iris and San are already waiting for you when you get there, within minutes makeup is being patted into your skin and your outfit is laid out on the chair next to you.

“Sleep more, Y/N-ah, I had to use a double coverage concealer to hide your dark circles.” Iris said in a fretful tone.

“I try, it’s hard being famous.” You reply jokingly, flipping your hair the best you can. Iris smacks your hand away and frantically finds her hairspray.

Within twenty minutes you’re dressed and not one hair is out of place, San pulls you aside with an uncharacteristically stern face. 

“The company have specific goals for sending you here, they want you to delve into a story of heartbreak to comfort today’s victim, while keeping anonymity and remaining as vague as you can.” 

Of course, even a show about helping others is fictional.

You nod solemnly and prepare to go on air, sitting on a cushion next to a popular comedian who doesn’t bother to even look at you. A well-known Streamer is on your other side and you begin polite small talk, which seems to irritate the host.

“We’re on in 3,2….1!” A sharp click follows the director’s queue and the host bursts right into the introduction.

After you’re introduced it’s easy to tune out, you couldn’t give a shit about that stuck-up comedian and the actress to their right. Instead you think of how the fuck you’re supposed to conjure up an emotional performance with little to no time to prepare.

‘My ex-boyfriend hid me for almost two years’ no, not even worthy of a cheap gossip magazine. ‘I thought my boyfriend loved me, turns out he loved his career more’ Maybe...but you sound too needy. 

“Today’s guest is Lee Chaeun of Suwon! Tell us your story, please.” 

You turn to look at the guest who walks onto the set and sits at the head of the pillow mats. She’s clearly a young girl, her baby face is covered by face-framing layers of shiny black hair and her eyes are already glassy.

“Last year, I began dating my crush after years of admiring him from afar...Everything seemed so perfect until last week….He dumped me by text message saying he needed space and now he’s with someone new..” Chaeun bursts into tears and the host fakes a sympathetic face and passes her a box of tissues.

“Ah, you’re young...you don’t know anything yet. This is a normal phase for teenagers, men realise themselves and break girls down so they become beautiful women. It’s just a case of a little girl not wanting to grow up!” Chimes in the Comedian, who talks about his falsities as if they’re facts.

The audience erupts into laughter and the heartbroken teenager lowers her head in embarrassment. Which only makes you more enraged, Who told that guy he was funny?

“Chaeun has every right to be upset!” You exclaim, cutting through the laugher like a hot knife. “When a relationship ends when everything seems alright for one person, it's cruel. Being blindsided isn’t a joke. It hurts and she deserves closure, and to move on someday to a better person..What happened to her shouldn’t happen to anyone!”  You barely register a gentle hand on top of yours, far too surprised by the fact there are tears dripping down your face. Crying wasn’t an option, so you pull yourself together and apologise to Chaeun and the host you cannot stand.

“Y/N, You seemed personally moved by Chaeun’s story, have you experienced a painful breakup?” The host asks curiously.

“You could say that,” You begin with a wry smile. “I was with someone who lived a double life, they were completely different when they were with other people...Things ended when I was still planning for future dates...it made me realise how fake they were.”

The guests all nod and you squeeze Chaeun’s hand, she smiles at you seeming relieved that she isn’t the only one who has felt this kind of pain. 

Everything goes smoothly after that, other guests chime in and the actress that seemed snobby is openly discussing her ex vomiting all over her Valentinos. You can’t help but wonder if the company really suggested this, or if it was divine intervention (Choi San, your manager). 

You don’t feel so alone anymore, everyone is guaranteed several things, two being love and heartbreak of some kind. 

“Thanks to singer Y/N and actress Sojung, Chaeun was able to feel a little better...Thank you for joining us on ‘Help No Counsellor!’, Join us next week when…’

“Choi San, you sneaky bastard.”

He tries to act surprised but a shit-eating grin soon overtakes his acting, Iris shakes her head and zips her makeup bag closed. It isn’t long until you’re all at The Min’s enjoying red bean bread and warm tea.  “What does inept even mean? I’m assuming it’s a good thing because Wooyoung kissed me after saying it.” San mentions, his lips curving upwards at the fond memory.

“I’d have to agree with Woo, it fits you perfectly.” You reply, circling around his question while Iris tries not to choke on her food.

Fits of laughter die down when you spot a familiar face, Lee Mijoo. 

Her blonde hair flows down her back in loose curls and her soft eyes seem to enchant everyone, admittedly even you for a short time.Behind her is a slightly taller figure dressed in all black and your stomach drops.They don’t seem to notice your presence, so you decide to use this valuable time to hide behind a menu. 

San and Iris try to play along best they can, but it is quite distressing that all of this has happened so suddenly, with no prior warning. But he did bring you here, a lot. So it’s amusing to see his date ideas haven't changed. 

As he’s walking past you he pauses, and you want to shrivel into a hole and die, He’s clearly recognised you but can’t be 100% sure due to The Min’s menu covering your entire face. 

“Y/N?” 

Shit. You cannot hide from this.

Slowly taking the menu away and placing it down on the table you smile at him, maybe a little too forced but it’s the best you can do. His hair is blonde now, his curls are long gone but his smile is as genuine as ever. 

Stupid Christopher Bang and his stupid ‘I-totally-didn’t-break-your-heart’ attitude.

“Chan, nice to see you. Still obsessed with their double shots?” You humoured, he seemed grateful for that.

“Oh, absolutely...and I see you’re still not saving any bean bread for anyone else.” 

You laugh, it’s a bittersweet one at best but nevertheless it’s a laugh.

'Well it’s great to see you again, I’d love to exchange numbers if that’s alright?” 

Without thinking you nod and oblige him, much to your friend’s disappointment which is evident by their glares. Mijoo exchanges smiles with everyone, who could hate her? She was funny, kind hearted and beautiful in every aspect. 

When they finally leave to their outside seats you breathe a sigh of relief and sink into the chair.Iris strokes your hair and San grabs more snacks to go, the walk home isn’t peaceful. It’s awkward and silent, which only makes your head spin more. When you drop off Iris you know a lecture is coming, San hates doing it but you know he tells you what you need to hear, even if it hurts.

“Look, I’m happy you were able to brush off all the hurt today but earlier on you were crying about….this. Don’t give him the power to hurt you twice.”

“You’re right, thanks Sannie.” You reply, taking his arm and smiling at the warmth of his (Wooyoung’s) fuzzy coat. 

Once San leaves and you get inside, it’s a matter of minutes before you hop in the shower and get rid of all the hairspray and mascara that’s been making you itch all day. The warm water soothes away your nerves and the impending frostbite from being outside in the cold for far too long. 

Once you feel clean and somewhat scalded you step out onto warm fluffy towels (cheap warm fluffy towels with holes in them) and get situated for bed.

Just as you exit the bathroom your phone rings and you answer immediately, it’s probably Iris wanting you to play a new Among Us mod with her. 

“Iris?”

“Uh, no, Chris.” 

“Oh.” is your initial reply, why would he call you at midnight?

“Where you asleep? I’m sorry I’ll call back another ti-”

“No!” You interject, much too eagerly. “No...it’s fine. I’m not even in bed yet.”

“Oh” He sounds relieved, much the opposite of you.

“I just wanted to congratulate you...The song, it’s great. What’s it like actually singing one you wrote?”

“Great,” You admit with a smile he can't see, “It feels...genuine. I Couldn't stand the thought of giving the song away.”

“I can see why.” He replies in an unreadable tone.

“Did it make you uncomfortable? Me singing...about-”

“No, why would it?” He cuts in, he sounds slightly agitated.

“Look, Chan, I’m sorry. I should’ve texted you, well I did but you changed your number. But it’s my story too, okay? I needed to heal somehow.”

Minutes pass with no answer, as if he’s trying to think of exactly what to say without getting more irritated or to spare your feelings.

“When did I become Chan?” His voice comes out wavering,and it hurts you.

“That’s what everyone calls you now, you’re not just Chris the trainee anymore.” You reply in a gentle way, trying to ease the building tension.

“But to you, when did I stop being Chris?”

“Probably when you broke my heart,” You deadpan, before adding a ‘kidding’ and bullshit reason.

“You weren’t kidding, but you broke mine too. Don’t make me the bad guy.”

This had taken you aback, you had been in a perfectly happy relationship for almost two years and then he changed his mind, said he wasn’t happy and it wasn’t your fault. When the fuck did you break his heart?

“When exactly did that happen?” You query, “Before or after Mijoo?”

Chan lets out a dry laugh, “Don’t talk about what you don’t understand.”

“Well what does it matter? You never told me shit anyways.” You snapped.

“That’s because you wouldn’t fucking listen. Maybe to you it was all sunshine and roses but I was struggling, I changed and outgrew us. I didn’t want to but you were stuck in dreamland where we’d debut at the same time and live happily ever after. I realised it wasn’t going to happen and set you free so you wouldn’t be embarrassed.”

“Embarrassed?” You bark,”Fucking embarrassed of what exaclty? I left that shithole you call your company by choice and worked my way up. I’m not embarrassed, but you should be. You’re a fucking sellout Christopher Bang.”

Before he can reply you end the call and throw your phone at the wall, it would’ve broken only for the forty dollar case the store assistant convinced you to buy. You burst into tears just like you had that night when it all came crashing down. He must’ve loved seeing you in pain, because he keeps doing it even now.

That night, you wish for everything to go back to a time before him and the heartbreak that followed.

It’s early on a Friday when you’re called into a board meeting with the CEO, Director and San, who looks like someone stepped on his clay masterpiece. You still haven’t been told anything and as the minutes pass by you wonder if they found out about you getting drunk at Club Suran several weeks back. What if someone saw San there too? What if–

Suddenly the doors open and in walks JYP’s CEO, followed by several others and finally Chris. He looks as confused as you, but you quickly look away before he spots you. Last night was still fresh in your mind and you didn’t need anymore reminders or conversations with him.

“Dispatch has sent us several photos of you two together, spanning several years.” Your CEO announces, an Executive pulling the photos up on the screen behind her. “Including one from yesterday.”

“That was a coincidence, we broke up a long time ago.” You admit, she seems satisfied with your answer and nods, which makes you remember that damned dating ban you have.

“Usually, we’d shoot down these rumours immediately...but this could be quite beneficial to both Stray Kids and Y/N.” JYP’s CEO adds, “Stock prices have shown a rise for both of your albums, and real time searches are at an all time high.” 

“I have a girlfriend.” Chan states, arms folded. “So that’s out of the question if you’re implying we fake a relationship.”

“Look Bang Chan,” Begins one of the Advisors, “It’s all for show, we’ll plan every detail and your girlfriend will keep her mouth shut if she knows what's good for her. Frankly, our sales aren't what they used to be and you need this, if you want complete musical and artistic control.”

Chan takes a while to think, you know this is all he’s wanted. Control over everything he and the boys put out there, with no censorship or edits by anyone else. Your CEO assures you you’ll also benefit from the agreement, including your debt fully cleared and money in your bank account as soon as you sign on the dotted line.

“How long does this last?” You ask, pen in hand.

“Twelve months, then you’re free again.” 

Chan looks to you for conformation and you ignore him, signing it and standing up to leave. You only stop to sign more formalities and then you and San head back to your local coffee shop. 

“Well, you sure have a funny way of moving on.”

[vex91]

WJSN Masterlist

(f) - fluff, (a) - angst, (af) - angst + fluff (s) - smut

Kim Hyunjung:

- Our secret (f)

- Unexpected (f)

- Sweet jealousy (f) (s)

Wu Xuanyi:

Nothing yet...

Kim Jiyeon:

- Our secret (f)

- Caught (f)

- Wingwoman (f)

Chu Sojung:

- Doesn't matter (f) (s)

Park Soobin:

Nothing yet...

Lee Luda:

- Sunday's discoveries (f)

Nam Dawon:

Nothing yet...

Son Juyeon:

- Worth it (f)

Cheng Xiao:

Nothing yet...

Meng Meiqi:

Nothing yet...

Lee Yeoreum:

Nothing yet...

Lim Dayoung:

Nothing yet...

Yu Yeonjung:

Nothing yet...

OT13:

Nothing yet...

[seodami]

Freezing cold | WJH

GIF is from @gotseventeens :)

Genre: FLUFF and a slightly slightly tiny bit suggestive (but not really tho), camping

Warning: none (except kissing and cuddling haha)

Word count: 2477

Pairing: idol!Wen Junhui x reader

Note: Soooo I actually wanted to post this in autumn but well now it’s winter haha. I really loved the TTT episode of going seventeen when they were camping so here is my camping seventeen imagine. Jun is such a cutie OKAY!!!! Also all the mentioned names who are not seventeen, are either their real friends (from research in the internet) or fictional names. I don’t know any of their relationships of course so it’s all just for fun :) I hope you keep that in mind. Enjoy!

It was cold. Freezing cold. One breath and a whole train of clouds was coming out of your mouth. It was already early December so the weather was quite reasonable. Either way you preferred staying inside cuddling your boyfriend wrapped in a cozy blanket while hearing his friends bicker about what movie to watch next.

But here you were, in the middle of trying to lit a bonfire with just two sticks since no one thought about bringing a lighter. What clever friends you had. However since it was Joshuas early birthday gift, you just had to embrace the cold creeping up your spine. He stated he really wanted to go camping again in one of the vlives he did, so all the boys could think about, was fulfilling his wish and planned a whole camping trip into the woods. It was a very sweet idea and you even helped gathering some stuff you may needed like blankets and pillows. Just no lighter.

You honestly had no idea where you exactly were. You may or may not have been fallen asleep on Jun’s shoulder and waken up just when you arrived at the destination. Jun had tickled your belly playfully, knowing exactly that this was your weak spot. Let’s just say it would have been a more pleasant way to wake up with soft kisses on your cheek. But Jun is Jun and that’s why you love him so much.

You let out an annoyed huff and fell back on your butt after trying for almost half an hour now to lit that fire. But nothing. “It will never work. Maybe we should just drive to the next convenience store and buy a lighter.” you mumbled over your shoulder, trying to reach just anyone with your words. Your hands were freezing cold by now and all you wanted to do was having some warmth at least.

“I know, I feel like we are back in Stone Age. Come on it’s the 21st century.” Youngmi, Seungcheols girlfriend of two years, sat down next to you, offering you a hot pack, as if she knew your hands were dying. “Thank you.” You muttered with a smile in her direction. “Where are the boys anyway? It’s like half of them disappeared.” You stated, taking a look around.

There were only a few of the dozen people, who tagged along nearby. Seungkwan, Eunbi and Wonwoo were currently still picking things up from the car. Sojung, Jeonghans girlfriend, Jihoon and Bree, Joshuas girlfriend were still trying to set the tents up, even though they already had about two finished. You made a mental note to help them later on. The warmth in your hands were more than comforting for the moment.

You watched Minghao and Minhi, his girlfriend, hanging up a hammock together while laughing. “I don’t know exactly. I think Cheolie said something about collecting more wood for the bonfire with a few others.” Youngmi said with a small grin. With a small nod you wrapped the big Jacket around you a bit tighter.

It was one of Juns padded jackets, you stole out of his wardrobe this morning. It still smelled like him, making your heart feel warmer than before. When he saw you with his coat reaching your feet all he did was pulling you in a bone crushing hug, calling you his caterpillar. Jun really had a fascination but so charming side to him, you fell deeper and deeper in love with him every day. Even after over one and a half years of dating, he never failed to make you feel loved and special. You knew it since day one. He was your one. And you were his one.

“I have absolutely NO idea where Jun is though. Maybe I should have paid more attention on him than this fire.” You chuckled, holding the hot pack against your cold and pink cheeks. Youngmi just shook her head laughing. “Oh don’t worry, the boys hopefully can take care of themselves.” She added playfully, leaving you giggle.

And just as you wanted to keep trying to rub the sticks together, you felt a hug from behind you while your boyfriends significant scent immediately hit you. “Baobeii I’m baackk. Have you missed me? I bet you did.” With his loud voice right next to your ear, you rolled your eyes giggling. “You bet I did. Where did you even go? The fire won’t lit and my hands are freezing cold.” You whined hearing Youngmi next to you giggle.

Jun took both of your hands in his and kissed them from over your shoulder. A warm rush went up your spine while you were trying to hide your smile. “Better?” He asked you intoxicatingly sweet to which you could just nod. “I was driving to the convenience store with Jeonghan, Josh and Seokmin like I told you. We bought a lot of things.” He told you with a chuckling tone.

With a surprised face you turned around in his arms to look at his beautiful face. “You were at the convenience store? I had no idea.” You mumbled leaning in his touch. He nodded laughing, pulling you closer. “Yeah I told you.”

You mumbled a sorry into his chest, making the boy feel all fuzzy inside. “I bought a surprise...” he remembered why they were there in the first line. He pulled out a lighter from his pocket. You let out an excited squeal, never have been more happy to have a lighter in your life before. You took the lighter from Juns hand, cupping his cheeks and pressing a fat kiss onto his cheeks. He let out one of his adorable giggles, leaning into your touch.

“Thank you Baobei! That’s exactly what we needed, right Youngmi?” You turned to the older girl besides you, her watching the couple in awe with a smile. She nodded with enthusiasm. “Exactly. Thanks Jun.”

While the three of you, now with more hope, tried to start a fire with Jun still cuddled next to you, you noticed the group from the forest coming back with tons of woods loaded in their arms. Seungcheol was already whining over the cold before you could even see them.

They all made a huge pile next to a tree and loaded some of the wood into the bonfire, which was actually starting to work. And after a while, you and Jun finally succeeded in lighting the fire. The warmth was so alluring, you almost didn’t want to move at all.

By now, it was already dark as the winter evenings could be. A few stars started to appear over the camping area behind the tall trees. Some of the taller guys hang up some fairy lights, dunking the whole place in a beautiful orange and yellow warm light. Around the bonfire, blankets and pillows made the earthy ground look way more comforting. The tents hidden behind the trees were all built and filled with sleeping bags and other comfy sleeping utensils.

When you thought their bickering over movies was bad, you clearly haven’t seen them deciding in which tents they would sleep. Clearly no one really wanted to share a tent with 7 other people. Or be with a couple alone (that specific comment coming from Chan and Jihoon, who both had to share one anyways with at least one cuddling couple. You sent Jun out there for a Rock Paper Scissors game to win your lucky place in one of the smaller tents.

In the end you were together in a tent with Jun, Youngmi and Seungcheol, which you definitely found quite pleasant compared to the big tent, which Vernon, Kino, Wonwoo, Hoshi,Yua (Hoshis long time best friend and since the latest events also girlfriend), Eunbi, Seungkwan and Chan had to share.

Jihoon on the other hand had to share a tent with Minhi and Minghao, about what he definitely wasn’t too happy about. “At least still better than being alone with Jun and Y/N” he said sighting, making everyone die from laughing too much. You on the other hand just stood there dumbfounded looking up to your boyfriend, who seemed to be just as flustered as you were. “Oh shut it, we’re not that bad.” You pouted intertwining your arm with Jun’s. “Suuree” Seungkwan laughed hugging Vernon from behind.

As the tents were all assigned, the atmosphere was just so beautiful and comforting. Some were laying in their tents just talking or even napping, others were sitting and laying around the warming bonfire, eating s’mores or bread. The soft crackling of the fire was mixed with quiet chatting and laughing. The smell of sweet marshmallows and Juns scent floated around you. You felt like home. It was so cosy and snuggly. Just so warm.

You were laying down with your head in Juns lap. His hand occasionally stroking through your hair while also feeding you with his newly made s’more creations mixed with the sweet potato he was eating. He swore you it was delicious even though you didn’t want to believe him at first. However after trying you were actually pleasantly surprised at the taste. It wasn’t bad at all.

Joshua was playing the guitar laughing occasionally at Bree’s stories. Wonwoo and Minghao were reading books while Jeonghan and Sojung were sleeping deeply besides you. Peaceful was the only word that came to your mind. Everything was so peaceful.

Suddenly you felt a pair of lips against the corner of your cheek and then on the corner of your lips. You chuckled looking up to your boyfriend. He had a pout on his face, making him look more than adorable. “Can I have a kiss, Baobei?” He asked you. Without saying anything more, you pulled his head down to yours, so that your lips could touch properly this time. Your hand in his neck played with his hair in the back, gently tugging on it.

You loved kissing Jun. You just loved it. For you it was a sign of pure love. It was your way of showing him what you feel for him and you knew he loved the feeling of your lips on his just as much as you did. Sometimes you were just crazy for each other and couldn’t stop showing your love. And sometimes others were tired of watching you two make out in the most random situations but you couldn’t care less. He was the love of your life.

“Oh no, Jun and Y/N are back at it again.” Seungkwan joked as he noticed your faces melted together. Jun just laughed in between your many kisses. Eunbi, one of his close friends he invited, gave him a light punch on his shoulder, which he dramatically held as if he was hurt. “Oh stop. It’s cute. You’re just jealous.” Eunhee, who sat next to Eunbi wrapped in a blanket laughed. “Are you, Seungkwan?” Seungcheol teased him making kissy faces. Oh, they all already had way too much Soju intus.

Seungkwan rolled his eyes playfully, giving Eunbi a shove as well in her side. “Yeaah I’m especially jealous when I hear them being ‘active’ at 3 am, when the whole house wants to sleep, trust me.” Said boy joked sarcastically, watching you and Jun break out in laughter.

“Hey that’s not funny. You can laugh. We all try to sleep.” He kept arguing. “That’s true...that’s true...” Chan smiled through the pain, earning a sympathetic smile from his Hyung before all laughing again. Yes. Definitely too much Soju.

As the evening slowly slipped into night, more and more of the big group decided to make their way to the tents to sleep. Just by looking at Juns face in your lap, you can tell he was on the brick of falling asleep. His thick eyelids screamed for sleep after the long eventful day and the more his eyelids fluttered shut, even if he tried his best to stay awake, you knew it was time for him to sleep.

At this time only Seungcheol, Youngmi, Vernon, Kino, Eunbi, Eunwoo, Chan, Wonwoo, Hoshi and Yua were still awake, chatting quietly over the dampened crackling of the fire, which by now had shrunken a bit in size.

With one hand you gently stroked Juns hair out of his forehead and eyes, while pressing a soft kiss onto the corner of his lips. “Baobei...you want to sleep? We can go in the tent.” You suggested quietly, watching his eyes flutter open once again with much effort. You smiled with your heart blooming full of love. How could you love him so much? You don’t know. But it was the best feeling in the world.

He nodded sleepily, his hands searching for yours. You intertwined your hands together, helping him up to head towards your tent after biding good nights to the rest.

Jun was especially clingy when he was tired. He hung onto your back, nearly tripping over his own feet. You guided him into your tent, besides your own tired state and made yourself bed ready. The air got colder and colder as you went further away from the warming fire. Under your jacket, you wore two of Juns hoodies since they were big enough on you to layer them, plus they smelled like Jun, which was just another pro. You helped your boyfriend to wear another layer of fabric since he would be sick or even dead in the morning if he wouldn’t. The more layers you wore, the warmer it got, but it was still freezing.

Jun’s arms sneaked around you once again. He could hear your teeth clattering against each other. “Are you cold, Baobei?” He asked quietly to which you nodded against his chest, gripping the material of his hoodie behind his jacket. “Come here. We’ll just share a sleeping bag. It’s warmer.” He mumbled drowsily, making some space inside his preheated sleeping bag.

Without second thought, you climbed inside, still clinging onto him and his comforting body warmth. A sigh left your lips, your cheeks pressed against his. “So much better.” You whispered making him giggle.

“I love you.” He stated quietly, making goosebumps appear on your skin. You were pretty sure it was Juns tired voice and not the cold. “I love you” you replied with just as much feeling. You couldn’t see much so you tiredly tried to make out his lips by touch. You both giggled once your cold fingers found his soft lips. You pressed a sloppy kiss onto his lips before laying your cheek against his again.

And after that it didn’t took long for the both of you to fall asleep in the ice cold tent. It may have been a freezing cold December night but for you and Jun, it felt like the warmest summer morning. You just loved this man that much.

[sunflowersoonyoung]

bittersweet | sowon & soyeon

w.c ↠ 1.8k

pairings ↠ sowon x gn!reader, soyeon x gn!reader, soyeon x yuqi, sowon x yuqi

genre/s ↠ established relationship au!, non idol au!, angst, minor smut (breast groping), infidelity

description ↠ soyeon and yuqi come over every weekend to have a double date with you and your girlfriend. and, every weekend, secrets are masked beneath the dinner table.

warning/s ↠ two broken relationships, cheating, lots of angsty feelings and feelings of guilt, heartbreak

a/n ↠ I think this a really unfortunate and (hopefully) realistic one shot about how cheating can hurt a lot of people. I don’t mind writing about cheating, but at the same time I don’t want to “romanticise” it, and so this is the result. 

requested by anon

“Did you make a new side dish?”

Sojung, your girlfriend, was finally serving up her various completed dishes onto plates, wafting a combination of mouth-watering scents into the steam-hazed kitchen. But, today, there was an extra plate.

“Yeah. Yuqi said she likes pickled radish.”

Yuqi and Soyeon were your close friends and a couple. Each weekend, you hosted a dinner filled with alcohol and laughter. This was such an occasion, with the couple due to arrive at any moment.

“Hmm? I don’t remember her saying that,” you replied off-handedly, but you hardly lingered on the discrepancy. After all, these evenings tended to end with you in an alcohol-induced daze. You may have simply forgotten it.

Just as you were setting the dishes onto the dining table, there was a knock on the front door. You ran across the house, eagerly greeting the couple upon opening the door.

Yuqi and Soyeon stood on your doorstep, lit dimly by the light bleeding from inside your house. Yuqi was beaming at you with a bright smile, a black plastic bag clinking by her hip - obviously carrying multiple bottles of soju.

Your gaze flickered over to Soyeon and her sharper, more severe features. She tucked her short, bleached hair behind one ear as your interest connected with hers for a moment too long. You quickly looked away, your cheeks burning.

“Y-You’re just in time,” you said, smiling, “dinner’s ready.”

“Yay~!” Yuqi hummed, passing you to stride through the house. For just a moment, you and Soyeon were alone, tension prickling on your bare skin, your hands trembling, your teeth sinking into your bottom lip.

You led Soyeon inside as well, finding the other two in the dining room in an innocent, brief embrace. Yuqi was quite affectionate, after all.

But as Yuqi withdrew, you caught a glimpse of Sojung’s face - a vulnerable simper on her expression. Something you had not seen for a long time.

It was strange, but nothing you would obsess over.

After all, you had your own secrets to worry about.

As usual, everyone sat in couples on opposite sides of the table. You and Sojung on one side, Yuqi and Soyeon on the other. Yuqi withdrew a bottle of peach soju and began to fill everyone’s shot glasses.

“How has your work been, Soyeon?” You inquired - a question that came perhaps too early to sound natural but thankfully went unnoticed - potentially due to her career as a music producer, which was bound to spark interest in the conversation.

“I’ve been busy,” she replied, “a solo artist in our company is having a comeback soon, so I’ve been working on her album constantly.”

You nodded slowly, a feeling of pride swelling in your belly; that you knew someone like her seemed incredulous.

Soyeon smiled at you pointedly, and your heart fluttered. In response, you took a swig of peach-flavoured soju, swallowing bitterly and distracting yourself by filling your plate up.

“Wah! You made pickled radish, Sojung-ah! Thank you!” Yuqi was grinning broadly, stealing heaps of it for her plate.

“I knew you liked it,” Sojung replied warmly, “I thought you’d appreciate it.”

Yuqi spoke quietly and genuinely, “I do.”

They shared a strangely long stare, and it was Sojung’s turn to take a long gulp from her shot glass. After that, you dined in fragile silence.

Finally, Yuqi shattered it - she was usually the type to thrive in awkwardness.

“How have things been for you guys? Been on any dates recently?” She asked, a playful lilt in her voice.

You chewed stressfully on your bottom lip as you answered, “ah, Sojung has been too busy with work recently. She could only get tonight off, so I suppose this is our date.”

You could not help the bitter feelings that rose to the surface as you explained this. It had been a sore point for both of you, a source of arguments and the reason you slept so far apart on the mattress.

As a high ranking employee, Sojung worked more than you would have liked. When she returned home, she would go to bed without uttering a single word.

That is no excuse for what you’re doing, you thought, you know that.

“Oh, that’s similar to how things are for us,” Yuqi replied, a strained smile painting her features, “but I suppose we can make up for it tonight.”

She and Soyeon shared a moment of intimacy as Yuqi grazed her fingertips over Soyeon’s knuckles.

“Of course, baby,” Soyeon murmured, catching Yuqi’s hand and pressing a light kiss to the top of it.

You glanced towards your girlfriend, feeling your stomach drain of warmth upon observing the couple. Sojung did not even look at you - her eyes remained trained on Yuqi. You swallowed, draining the rest of your shot glass.

The evening went smoothly after that, laughter bouncing around the room as dark green Soju bottles began to empty. Considering your girlfriend had done most of the work, you alone went to wash the dishes.

You had your hands in the hot dishwater when arms snaked around your waist, making you flinch. That scent was familiar and yet different.

“S-Soyeon!” You gasped, pulling out of her embrace, “the others are so close.”

“You looked upset at the table,” Soyeon hummed lowly, “Is everything okay?”

“Not in the slightest, and you know that,” you replied, your heart growing heavy with guilt, “We could ruin two relationships if we were found out. And you looked so happy with Yuqi.”

“An hour ago, I did. Tonight, we’ll go back to sleeping in separate beds,” Soyeon’s voice crackled with desperation.

“You know that’s no excuse,” your eyes burned with tears as you proceeded, “The right thing to do would be to break it off. We’re the bad people in this situation. You know that, right?”

Soyeon cupped your face and kissed you, and your anxiety melted away. You had been craving affection of any form, and she had known it.

But it felt wrong. It always did. It was dangerously bittersweet.

Soyeon’s hand wrapped around your wrist tightly, dragging your palm to clasp around her breast. You instinctively massaged the pliant flesh, feeling her nipple peaking through two layers of clothing.

And then reality struck you in the head, and you gasped, pulling away.

“I said not now, Soyeon,” you mumbled, “we’ll get caught. Is that really what you want?”

“In a way, I do,” she replied, grinning. Of course, she was teasing you, but at that moment, it only made you feel queasy.

You returned to the dishes, the ground swaying beneath your feet. You could not help but picture it; Yuqi’s face, Sojung’s face, both horrified as they stared at you and Soyeon.

“Sorry, sweetheart, I didn’t mean that. I was just playing with you.” Her fingers rubbed against your shoulders comfortingly.

“I know,” you replied, a small smile playing on your lips.

Soyeon kept you company as you washed and dried dishes, occasionally pressing light kisses to your jaw and cheek and making you flutter.

“I’m going to go back to the others. If I’m gone too long, it’ll seem suspicious,” she announced finally.

As she disappeared from the room, leaving behind only the faint taste of her perfume, you began to conclude your chores, wiping suds onto your pants and sighing in relief. The quiet atmosphere became soothing, only to be interrupted by Soyeon’s exclamation.

“What the hell?!”

You furrowed your brows out of fear, hearing heightened shock and horror thick in Soyeon’s tone. You took off out of alarm, tearing through the house, feeling frightened.

Yuqi and Sojung had shifted to the lounge and stood in front of Soyeon with dreadfully pale faces; their gazes fixed to the floor. Soyeon stood numbly, her hands balled into tight fists.

“Wh-What is it?” You stammered, your bones aching out of panic.

“Soyeon, don’t,” began Sojung, but this only seemed to infuriate Soyeon further.

“They were kissing!” Soyeon scowled.

Yuqi could not even lift her head; her expression doused in shame. Sojung was peering at you fixedly, and when you met her eyes, you saw no genuine emotion. She was not ashamed. She was empty.

“I can’t fucking believe it,” Soyeon’s tone was sour. You moved to place a hand on her shoulder, uttering gently, “Soyeon, stop.”

“Why? They betrayed us!”

“We betrayed them too!” You shouted, interrupting her.

Everyone was looking at you now, and you felt all of the air in your lungs go icy. Hot tears spilled down your cheeks.

“W-We were together too,” you said, your voice thin and trembling, “Soyeon and I.”

The stillness of the room collapsed into audible sobs. You knew Soyeon and Yuqi were fighting, but you could not discern their words over the loud buzzing against your ears. By the time the cloud of overwhelming emotions in your head cleared, Sojung had taken Yuqi’s hand and stolen her away.

“Soyeon,” you spoke helplessly. She did not look up.

“I’m leaving,” she responded quietly.

“Please don’t leave me alone here,” you pleaded, your eyes searing from dried tears.

“We did something terrible today (F/n),” she said coldly, her gaze heavy, “All four of us. I can’t build a new relationship on top of that.”

With that, Soyeon left.

You could not remember what happened after that. All you knew was that you woke up the following morning on your sofa, going to work despite your fragmented heart.

Amidst all the pain, Sojung and Yuqi manufactured a new relationship. They blossomed, but it would never be true love because, in the end, they would forever be fraught with guilt.

You sent Soyeon countless texts, hoping for a conversation even just as friends. She did not reply. She was probably burying herself in her work.

In the end, it took months for you to regrow. Your heart resembled a burnt forest. Eventually, plush vegetation began to sprout from the arid, charred ground.

You no longer felt that bittersweet emotion of losing two relationships: one broken relationship that you could have pretended was okay forever and one pleasant one that would never have worked.

[softstanwrites]

freelancer 6.1, changkyun x reader

an: I broke this one into two parts because I really just wanted to post something. also got a lil lazy towards the end. 

word count: 1860

warnings for mentions of blood and makeshift surgery i guess.

She froze, the feeling of her own consciousness floating above her. Her eyes went a little blurry as she tried to focus on the situation at hand. His voice became instantly recognizable, even after not hearing it for three years, and threw her thoughts into a flurry. She never thought she’d see him again and definitely not like this. 

“Changkyun,” She spoke breathlessly. “What the fuck are you doing here?”

He groaned, moving his head to look up at her with blurry eyes as she shuffled closer to him. The harsh light from the hallway light framed her adding a halo around her. Angelic, he thought. A smile came to mind but he couldn’t will it to his face because of the immense pain that he was in. Instantly, the harsh throbbing in his body, he let out another strained groan as he fought to keep himself awake, slumping down further against the wall. His arm dropped to his side and she could see what was causing all of his pain. A wound, on his abdomen and it was bleeding profusely. 

She jumped in shock, “Wha - what the fuck? Were you shot?” She asked and received no intelligible answer. Changkyun instead mumbled something and rocked his head back and forth. She pulled his shirt up and away from his injury to get a closer look. As she’d expected, a bullet wound not any bigger than 10 mm. She steeled her nerves before taking a look at the wound closer. She couldn’t see the back end of the bullet. It was deep inside of him and that was going to be a problem. 

“Changkyun,” She called to him and she covered him with his shirt again. She looked over his face. His eyes hazed over with pain and brimmed with un-cried tears. “Changkyun,” She waited for him to respond back. “I’m going to go get my phone. We need to call the ambulance.” She said moving up away from his crumpled form on the floor. But before she could he mustered up all the strength he could, jolted to her and grabbed her arm, stopping her but sending waves of intense pain through his side. 

“No” His hoarse voice shouted out. She was dumbfounded.

“Changkyun, you’ve been shot!” She exclaimed but remembering where she was she lowered her voice. She had been trying to keep herself calm, invoking her doctor’s persona. But with Changkyun showing up unexpectedly, hurt, and now refusing actual help, it was enough to make her want to pull her hair out. “You need medical attention. Now, is not the time for you to be a stubborn bastard.” She stirred to get up but he held onto her arm. She wanted to remove his hand but she could see that his eyes were nearly closed and his mouth mumbling words. She moved closer to his face putting her ear to his mouth. 

“Please Y/N, don’t call. Just help me out right now.” He begged in a strained voice. “I’m not going to make it if you leave me here. Please, it hurts so much.”

She looked down at him, seeing him in so much pain made tears come to her eyes. Her breath became ragged as she watched his eyes close, pain still written all over his face. He was still breathing but his breath had become extremely shallow. She couldn’t keep her composure and quiet tears slipped from her eyes and fell down her face.

“Fuck,” She whispered out, removing herself from him. She shakily made her way back into the apartment looking down the small hallway inside. She could still hear Sojung’s loud music playing from her from her room. As long as she didn’t come out of her room she could move Changkyun into her room and go from there. She puts turns to put a stopper in the door before returning to his side. She wrapped her arms around his body, making sure to steer clear of his injury.

“Okay,” She braced getting ready to use her strength to pull him up. “I need you to stay quiet, Sojung can’t know I'm bringing you in here.” She didn’t get a response from him, not even a strained muffle and it made her heart quicken in panic. In one fell swoop she brought him up to nearly standing position, almost falling before centering his body weight with her own. Slowly, she shuffled through her open door and down the hallway to her bedroom. “Alright, we’re almost there,” She whispered to him, beads of sweat starting to form on her forehead. The two of them were in the home stretch, already passing the living room and the kitchen and just making it past Sojung’s bedroom door on the left hand side. Her bedroom was just past the hall closet on the right side, right before the bathroom that sat at the end of the hallway. Before she knew it she was shuffling through her door, Changkyun in tow. 

She placed him on the bed before checking his breathing. He’s breathing but it’s so soft. Barely even there, She noted, before exiting the room. She ran back to the front door checking in the building’s hallway to see if any evidence of Changkyun was left, thankfully, nothing was there so she closed the door and locked it before moving to Sojung’s room. Y/N needed to make sure that she wouldn’t come into her room. She knocked on the door and waited for a muffled come in over all the music before opening the door. 

“Hey.”

“Hey, what’s up?” Sojung said, turning from her art that was in front of her. It was a large canvas that she had propped up against her wall, the undone painting seemed to be of the Seoul skyline at night but it looked skewed and offset. She grabbed her phone, and turned down the music that was blasting through her speakers. 

“Nothing much, I’m just going to head off to bed.”

“This early?” Sojung questioned, not knowing Y/N to really be the type to hit the hay before 1 am.

“Yeah, I’ve got a meeting to go to in the morning before my shift so I need to wake up early for it tomorrow” The lie running off of Yn’s tongue with ease.

“Oh, should I turn the music down for you?”

“Oh no no,” Y/N acted, pushing off her concerns. “I'm probably going to listen to some asmr or something till I fall asleep. I just wanted to let you know.”

“Okay then, goodnight Y/N” Soojung said, sending her friend a soft smile.

“Night” Y/N mimicked Sojung and smiled back, even sending her a little wave before closing the door to her room. Y/N waited for a heated moment for Sojung to turn her music back on before rushing back into her own room. Once inside, she locked the door and turned on her desk lamp, pointing it at her bed. 

Changkyun laid on her bed almost completely still, the sight of him almost lifeless made Y/N panic. But she took deep breaths to calm down, reminding herself of all the training that she had gone through. Y/N rummaged through her supplies that she had in her room. Some of it was medical supplies that she had used during college on dummies that they had allowed her to take home, some of it was things that she had brought on the internet with a discount that her job had given her. She grabbed the thing she would need to help him like gauze, towels, large tweezers, skin glue and antiseptic fluid and cream. She carefully took off his blazer and started unbuttoning his shirt when he started to stir in her grasp and his breathing became heavier and more weighted. Y/N watched as his eyes strained open and he looked around the room. 

“Hey, I asked you to help me out, not help yourself.” His voice came out strained and rough but she welcomed it. It was a good sign that he wasn’t on the brink of death like she had assumed and had enough strength in him to still be his annoyingly witty self. 

“Shut up, I need to be able to see what I’m doing.” He wanted to laugh at her reaction but his wound made it too painfully. “I need you to breathe slowly and deeply, okay?”  Changkyun nodded as she took off his shirt and re-positioned him on the bed. She tossed the two items on the floor before grabbing a pair of latex gloves and putting them on.  She tied two pieces of gauze tightly around his abdomen, above and below the gunshot, to stop most of the bleeding. Then she started to inspect the gunshot. With gentle fingers, she pressed around the injury to see if she could locate the bullet and when Changkyun flinched and groaned, she knew she had found it. She turned to grab her tweezers and sanitize them, ready to remove it when he spoke up.

“Wait, wait,” He sounds exasperated, the remnants of pain not leaving his face. “You’re just going to go in? No morphine? No nothing?”

“Well maybe if you had let me take you to the hospital, I could get you all that but I don’t have any of that stuff here. You’re going to have to tough it out, babe.” 

Y/N didn’t realize that the world slipped out until it was already hanging in the air. Turned back to him and thankfully for her, his head was facing the other way. She waited for him to say something but he hadn’t reacted to what she said. Not a little quip or snarky comment, or even a grunt from him. So she decided there wasn’t a reason to address it. Besides, she had to focus on the task at hand. She scooted back to the bed in her chair and carefully inserted the tweezers in his side using her hand as a guide. 

She had found that the bullet was pointed outwards and if it had more momentum it would exited his body. She wished it had because this would have been an easier job to do than to watch his face scrunch up in pain every time she pulled on the bullet but finally she got it out. From what she could tell, it had hit no major arteries or organs.The only thing now was the healing process and hopefully avoiding infection. She cleaned the wound and dressed it antiseptics before closing the wound with skin glue. She cleaned it again before covering it up with gauze and wrapping his whole lower abdomen.

She cleaned up, taking all the bloodied materials used and either cleaning them or sneakily throwing them down the trash chute in the building. When she returned back to her room, Changkyun had already fallen asleep. His chest raised and fell at a slow but steady pace and after watching him intensely for over 10 minutes, she figured that he was stable enough for her to get some sleep as well. 

[softwonjunnie]

strike three  ⚾ chapter five

“sometimes, you find love where you’d least expect it.”

☽ baseball team captain!jinhyuck x softball team captain!reader

☽ college!au    

☽ ft. up10tion’s jinhyuck, uniq’s seungyoun, up10tion’s wooseok and most likely other produce x 101 contestants aswell

☽ also kim jiyeon, cho sojung and kim hyunjung of wjsn just to have a face to those names, but if you want to imagine your own people go ahead because this is mainly a produce x 101 fic

☽ fluff and bits of angst, possibly more mature content but only following a warning

☽ second person view, female reader who goes by your name (y/n)

☽ word count  : 3k

☽ finished at 2019-11-25, 9:30 pm cet

☽ a/n : finaaaallyyyyy! sorry for the long wait... i’ve had quite a lot going on in my life lately, both physically and mentally (and a maaaajor writers block when it came to this...). thank you all for waiting. also, go check out jinhyuk’s solo debut! it’s great!!

ALSO! click here to find jinhyuk and y/n’s clothes for the party!!

trigger warning : mentions of anxiety/panic attacks! 

Masterlist l Chapter one l Chapter two l Chapter three l Chapter four l Chapter five 

↬ The two of you spent a good amount of time that evening together, getting to know each other’s kissing styles so that you could be prepared for the party. Or, to you, it was more of a moment to get to know the whole act of kissing itself. After some time, you actually grew more confident and less scared of the party. Or, at least that’s what you thought in the moment.

But when you woke up the next morning, there was a huge lump in your throat. You were a bit on-edge the whole day, and your mind wandered back to thinking about the party any time it could. 

As Fridays were the teams’ only weekday free from practice, parties were often held on exactly those days, except for if there was a game the morning after. Games were most often either on Saturdays or Sundays, with sometimes a celebratory party on Saturday evening if the game went well. There weren’t any games until the nationals, so the whole weekend would be free for players to be hungover, so Wooseok had planned his party on a good day. After school, you went straight back to your dorm to get some rest before Jinhyuk would pick you up at 8. Right as you were done eating a quick dinner, Sojung came crashing in through the door.

“Girl, I saw this in the shop window today and I needed to get you it for tonight,” she said as she placed a shopping bag on the floor in front of you.

“Didn’t you have class today?”

“Yes I did, but since when does that mean I have to attend it?” You chuckled at her response but grinned, reaching down to the bag. You saw that it was from a shop you had heard from - not exactly a cheap store.

“Sojung, I can’t take this. It must’ve been super expensive,” you said, giving her a thankful yet sad smile.

She shook her head at you. “It was on sale, like 70% off! And give it back tomorrow if you want to, just please, please, wear it tonight.” You stood still, only thinking about it for a few seconds, before agreeing. You nodded at her and could instantly see how her whole face shone up. “Try it on, then! Go!” 

You picked the piece of clothing out of the bag, and - it was really pretty. It was a black shoulderless dress, with the sleeves merely a little bit puffed. It was decorated along the chest and sleeves with strings, and only held up by two strings over the shoulders. You were stunned. “Have I ever told you that you have great taste in clothes?” Sojung only grinned and you could really tell how excited she was to see you in it. 

You got changed quickly, and when you were done, you turned around for her to see you - and her mouth hung agape. “Wow. Just wow,” she said and you couldn’t help blushing. You walked over to the full-length mirror by the front door and watched yourself. You weren’t someone who usually dressed up all fancy; you usually didn’t have a reason to. But now that you had, you felt confident. You looked good. The dress hugged your body in just the right places, and it wasn’t too short or too long for your taste. You smiled at the sight in the mirror. 

Sojung’s voice soon interrupted your thoughts. “Jinhyuk is going to love it. And you.” And now you were blushing even harder. You hadn’t thought yet about Jinhyuk seeing you in that dress, and suddenly you got really nervous. He had pretty much never seen you like this, all dressed up, and you were unsure of how he was going to react. 

“Let me do your hair!” Sojung’s mother was a hairstylist, so she had been taught how to work with hair from when she was very young. She always braided your hair for your competitions and put your hair in pretty hairstyles for special occasions. This time, she put your hair up in a cool ponytail and gave your hair some pretty waves. Just as you were about to check yourself out in the mirror, there was a knock on the door. You checked the time on your phone, 7:41, before opening the door - and behind it stood none other than Jinhyuk.

“Oh, you’re early!” you exclaimed, a bit surprised as you didn’t expect to see him so soon.

“And you’re really pretty,” he said and grinned, pulling you in for a hug.

You heard your own heartbeat very loudly in your head. Did he really call me pretty just now?, you thought to yourself. You breathed deeply to try to collect yourself, and put a bright smile on your lips as you pulled away from the hug. Your eyes scanned his outfit; he was wearing a white button-up with thin black vertical stripes, and its hem was lazily tucked into his ripped jeans at some parts. The jeans’ holes over his knees were so large that his whole knees were sticking out - but it looked cool nonetheless. And on his feet, a pair of regular white sneakers that matched his shirt. His outfit was simple, to say the least, yet it made him look very handsome. “Well you don’t look too bad yourself,” you snickered and nudged his side with your elbow.

“Do you need some more time or are you ready to leave?” You nodded and went to grab your phone, and on the way back you saw Sojung who was still watching you with a big smile plastered on her lips. You pulled her in for a hug.

“Thank you so so much,” you whispered to her and squeezed her extra tightly.

“It’s my pleasure,” she said back, pulling away from the hug to smile at you. 

You walked over to Jinhyuk who was holding his out hand for you, and you took it in yours. You put on your shoes and waved a last time to Sojung before leaving through the front door. “How are you feeling?”

You two began walking towards the exit and you let out a small sigh. “A bit nervous, but I’m fine.”

“Don’t be,” His thumb stroked the back of your hand softly as you went out through the front door, heading towards the parking lot. “I won’t leave your side, and you know you can cancel the kissing if you want.”

You nodded to yourself, but couldn’t get any more words out of your mouth. You wanted to do it, you really did - you really wanted people to think of you two as a legit couple for the contest - but it frightened you. A lot. Just the thought of being that close to Jinhyuk, kissing Jinhyuk, in front of all these people made you dizzy. But you had to stay strong.

You two soon reached Jinhyuk’s car which was parked in the school’s parking lot. As the party was going to be in an apartment off-campus, there was a drive of a couple of minutes, but Jinhyuk filled it up by talking to you about all kinds of nonsense to calm you down. When you arrived at Wooseok’s apartment, Jinhyuk ran around the car to the passenger’s seat to open the door for you and help you out. You smiled at his actions and thanked him, and he threw his arm around your waist to keep you close before leading you inside.

The room you first entered was the combined hallway/living room, with big speakers playing some kind of EDM music and lamps shooting beams in green and blue all over the room. There was a smell of alcohol, so strong your nose itched a bit. The room was filled with students with red cups in their hands, some dancing slowly and out of sync to the music, some just standing upright and talking. “Let’s find Wooseok,” Jinhyuk said and you nodded at him.

The room was so crowded that it was hard for you to get through, and Jinhyuk’s grip on your waist tightened, making sure that you wouldn’t fall away into the mass. You two made it into the kitchen after a few moments, and there was Wooseok, chatting with a girl who was sitting on a kitchen counter. You hadn’t seen her on campus before, but you assumed she went to your school - but you thought she must’ve been in a lower grade than you, as she looked a few years younger. She had light brown wavy hair that framed her pretty looks, and dark freckles that were sprinkled across her face.

“What’s up, man?” Jinhyuk said when you approached the two of them.

“Hey, I’m glad you both could make it!” Wooseok snickered, a grin spreading across his lips. “Guys, this is Natasha.” He introduced the girl and she waved to you with a cute smile. “Natasha, this is Jinhyuk and Y/N.”

“It’s nice to meet you,” you said and Jinhyuk nodded next to you.

“You too!” Natasha exclaimed and pulled a hand through her big, fluffy hair to get it out of her face.

You could really understand why Wooseok liked her (if it was actually real and not just to get on better terms with her father, that is). Everything about her was pretty - her smile, her nose, her hair, her eyes. If Wooseok is actually using her, you thought to yourself, then this is awful. Then she deserves someone much better.

The boys soon got immersed in a discussion about some football game, and Natasha was pulled away after a little while by one of her friends to the living room-area. You weren’t particularly interested in the conversation going on, but as you scouted the room you didn’t notice anyone familiar, so you had nowhere to go. So you stayed right next to Jinhyuk. And his arm never left its place around your waist.

After a while, you felt a tap on your shoulder. Turning around, you saw someone you knew. Kim Jiyeon, a senior and the greatest batter of the softball team. You two weren’t exactly best friends, but as you were teammates, you knew each other well.

“Hey girl! I didn’t think you’d make it,” she rejoiced and pulled you in for a hug.

Giving her a squeeze back, you smiled to yourself at her excitement. “It’s nice to see you!” You two pulled away from the hug. “I didn’t know you’d be here.”

“Well, this guy forced me to come here with him,” she said and pointed towards the boy standing behind her - Lee Hangyul, the baseball team’s strongest shortstop. He was responsible for more double plays than any other shortstop in the league last season. He was also a quite nice guy, one of the few boys on the team who didn’t consider himself “too cool” to talk to you softball players. He and Jiyeon were sworn best friends, and according to them only so - though a lot of people thought there was something else going on between them.

The boys broke off their chitchat and you all five started small-talking together instead. The boys soon went to get some drinks, and Jinhyuk kissed your cheek as he mumbled into your ear that he’d be back any minute.

Jiyeon leaned against a kitchen counter before she started talking. “So... How are you feeling about the competition? Are you nervous?”

You were confused. What contest was she talking about? “Do you mean the national championships?” you asked, to which she shook her head and smiled at you.

“No, the one tonight.” You searched through your mind. Did Jinhyuk mention any contest? Had your memory been erased in some magical way? Jiyeon saw your struggle and spoke up again. “The kissing contest. The round of ~too hot~, don’t you know? You and Jinhyuk are up against Natasha and Wooseok. The couple the crowd likes the most wins.”

Your heart stopped. Was this for real? You weren’t only going to kiss Jinhyuk in front of all these people, but you were going to be judged by them? The thought of them watching your every move, how your mouth moved against his, made your stomach twist. Your mind went blank and you stopped breathing for a few seconds.

A hand on your shoulder woke you up again. “Y/N? What’s going on?” Jiyeon’s voice echoed through your head along with the loud music and you blinked a couple of times to try to see clearer. Everything was dark. Your breathing became heavier.

“I-I-I need to get some air...” you let out all in one breath before turning around and moving as quickly as you could through the crowd. There were people everywhere, dancing and hollering at each other. The tunes coming out of the speakers made your head hurt, and the extreme smell of alcohol didn’t make it any better. As you pushed yourself between the students, you felt a strong pain in your chest and your breathing intensified. I just need to get outside, you thought to yourself. I just need some air...

Finally, after what felt like hours, you found a back door that lead to Wooseok’s small backyard. Pulling the handle down with all the power you had left in your body, you let the door slide open and you threw yourself outside, letting it close behind you. You sat down on the grass and it was as if you finally let loose. Like everything just poured out of you. The anxiety over having to kiss him in front of someone, anyone at all, and the anxiety of knowing they will judge you from all that you do. You started hyperventilating, and now tears were falling along your cheeks nonstop. You felt like someone was choking you. The world was spinning and you reached forward with trembling hands to try to stabilize yourself to the ground.

Suddenly, your arms were pulled gently up over your head and your hands were held by another large pair of hands. “Breathe,” a voice whispered lowly.

You recognized it - it was Jinhyuk’s.

“Do it with me. Breathe in,” he said and really emphasized the in, signaling for you to take it slow. “and out.” And so he continued. You tried your best to follow him, even though it was hard.

And Jinhyuk was nothing but patient with you. He took it slow, and focused on helping you bring you up from all of this. His thumbs alternated between stroking the back of your hands and wiping tears off your cheeks.

When you eventually calmed down and could breathe properly again, you felt another wave of feelings wash over you - but this time, it was feelings of embarrassment. You had been sitting here crying like a total freak, in front of one of the most popular boys in school, a boy you knew talked to all his friends about almost everything - especially when it came to girls.

You looked away as he let go of your hands, and could feel your cheeks heating up instantly. Your hand went up to draw your fingers through your hair, a habit of yours for whenever you got embarrassed. “Are you okay?” the boy in front of you asked, seemingly worried.

“Yes,” you spoke in a weak voice, feeling like your voice wasn’t strong enough not to crack if you were to say anything else.

“What caused all of this? Is it the kiss?”

You shook your head. ”No...” you mumbled. “or, yes, kind of. I don’t know.” A couple of lonely tears ran along your cheek once again. “I heard about the... competition.”

“The what?”

“There’s apparently some kind of contest between you and me, and Wooseok and Natasha.”

You looked up at him after finishing your sentence, and Jinhyuck pulled a face you couldn’t quite understand, but he looked really confused. “What?!”

“Jiyeon told me about it, and...” You let out a sigh. “something just happened. I couldn’t control it. I needed to get out of there.”

Suddenly, Jinhyuck pulled his arms around you and engulfed you into a soft hug. “There’s absolutely no pressure to do this, okay? We can go back to the dorm right now if you’d like to.”

Shaking your head, you pulled away from the hug and wiped away the last of your tears. “I can go through with the kissing, it’s just the contest that I’m not up for.”

“I could go inside and tell them to call it off?”

You looked up at him with hope in your eyes. “Could you do that?”

He nodded and smiled at you. “Of course. Anything for you.”

A weight lifted off your shoulders and you could finally smile again. Did he really mean that? Saying that was really sweet of him, and it didn’t seem like he only said it for the deal - it seemed like he genuinely cared for you.

“Thank you.” He nodded and reached forward to cup your face, stroking your cheek with his thumb ever so softly, before standing up and walking back towards the house. But as he was about to enter, the door was opened by someone else - Seungyoun.

“Is she okay?” He asked, shooting a worried glance over towards you.

Jinhyuk nodded. “Just... be gentle with her,” he muttered under his breath before heading in to the party and letting Seungyoun walk over to you.

He stopped right in front of you and sighed, before saying “We need to talk.”.