#and if I'm already here i might as well go to korean class too

[tardis--dreams]

I hate small classes. I feel like i should let my lecturer know i won't come to class today just because we're already very few people

[ivelle-serenity]

Skateboard 4

Wind breaker

fem bodied reader | smut | action | pwp | jayjo/fml | vinny/fml | wooin/fml | joker/fml | hyuk/fml | owen/fml | enemies to lovers | angsty | the other woman (?) | reverse harem | fluff | SLOW BURN! | all characters featured are 18+

author's note: interaction with Jay is now finally happening 😩👊

✧˖° — windbreaker men

✧˖° — mdni, smut, description of not safe for work content.

✧˖° — this is a story not one shot.

The next day, I couldn't stop thinking about what happened. The events of yesterday were driving me crazy, and I wanted to scream in my room. The Sabbath Crew kept popping into my mind—Wooin, Joker, and especially Jay from Hummingbird. I bit my finger while staring at the blackboard. Our physics teacher was checking our assignments. I did Dom’s assignment as promised, and I also did Jay’s. I ignored his suggestion to work on it together. There was no way I was doing that. Besides, I could handle it on my own.

But when I handed Jay his assignment, he seemed annoyed. Was he really mad at me, or was that just his usual expression?

"Is this real?" Our teacher looked up in surprise. "Dom, Jay, and Demitra got the highest scores on the assignment," he announced to the class. "All three of them tied for the highest score."

Dom’s jaw dropped as he stared at me, but I kept looking out the window. Honestly, the assignment was tough, but I managed to ace it.

"Come on, Sir! Can't you believe I have some hidden genius too?" Dom shouted, making everyone laugh.

"Well, I just can't believe anyone matched Jay's score. He always gets the highest in our class." The teacher looked at me. "It seems our new student is competing with him. This is very exciting." He grinned.

Jay kept his usual cold expression, staring at his notebook. I shrugged and started packing my things since the teacher was leaving and it was time to go home. Our classmates started making noise again as soon as the teacher left. It was like a zoo with all the ruckus they were causing. I never expected Korean students to be this loud.

I froze when I saw someone standing in front of my desk. It was Dom...

"Can we talk to you?" he asked with a sweet smile plastered on his face.

"Who's 'we'?" I replied, then noticed Jay, Mia, and Yuna also standing up.

"We saw how you ride a bike, and I gotta admit, you're really good," Dom said, stroking his chin as if deep in thought. "I don't know what happened yesterday that made Jay win when it was obvious you should have."

"Maybe Jay's just better than her," Yuna interjected, giving me a dirty look.

I smiled sarcastically. "I still don't see why you're all here in front of me."

"Join us." We all turned to Jay. His eyes were directly on mine. "Join our crew," he clarified.

I laughed, but when I realized they were serious, I laughed again.

"What is this? This is so random." I shook my head and put my notebook in my bag. "I lost, so why would I join your crew? Besides, I already did your assignments, so why—"

"Shelly's been gone for months now because of a family emergency in England. We need a rider for the cycling tournament. We're short one person for the next round. It's only temporary," Dom explained, making puppy eyes at me.

I felt like a bucket of cold water was poured over me when he mentioned Shelly's name. I had suspected she might be the Shelly I knew, and now I was right. It really was her.

I clenched my fists.

"And didn't you say that if you beat Jay, you'd join their crew? It means you really want to join—" Mia started, but I cut her off.

"Believe it or not, I was just joking back then." I looked away from them. "I didn't expect you to take it seriously. Look, I'm selling my bike because I don't use it anymore. Just find another rider or bring Shelly back." I stood up. But before I could leave, someone grabbed my arm. I looked up to see Jay staring at me with no emotion on his face.

"I'll do all your assignments this time," he uttered. "Just join us," he said firmly.

"I don't need your help."

"But we do."

I looked at him in disbelief, meeting his gaze. Okay, I had to admit, I wanted to try their tournament, but I didn't want to show my face. I knew Sangho was handling that event. He might recognize me, and I didn't want him to know I was in Korea.

"Fine," I said, and Dom, Yuna, and Mia's eyes widened as if I had said something shocking. "Don't help me with physics, just Korean," I added, looking away.

"Wow, you really don't seem like someone who struggles with our language," Mia remarked, amazed.

I gave them a small smile. "Just tell me the time of your training," I said to Jay.

"We were planning to train right now," Dom chimed in.

Oh fuck

This isn't bad, right? And it's only temporary. They just really need a player for a new match. I sighed, thinking about Shelly again. That woman... So she's Jay Jo's girlfriend. I thought they were talking about a different Shelly because there was no way that woman would come to Korea. Last time she told me, no matter how boring her life got, she wouldn't go to her mother's country.

"I really appreciate you accepting our request," Mia said suddenly as we walked out of the school. "If I could join them, I would, but I'm not really good at biking." She said sadly.

"When is Shelly supposed to come back?" I asked, looking at the parked bikes. I can't believe I kept saying I wouldn't bike, but I still use it to get to school.

"We still don't have any news from her... Actually, I'm starting to worry, especially for Jay." We both glanced at Jay, who was now putting on his helmet.

"Why?"

She swallowed. "Ever since she left, Jay hasn't had any contact with Shelly. These past few months, it's been obvious how down he's been. He really loves Shelly," she said with concern. I paused and looked at Jay Jo again.

He frowned when he noticed me staring, so I quickly looked away.

"She'll come back," I said to reassure her. I can't believe I had a crush on a guy who was Scott's boyfriend.

"YUNA, MY LOVE! CHEER FOR ME IN FRONT OF DEMITRA, OKAY? SO SHE KNOWS HOW MUCH YOU LOVE ME!" Dom shouted from afar.

Disgust was written all over Yuna's face. "You're just training. What cheer are you talking about?" she rolled her eyes. Dom pouted like he was being mistreated by his girlfriend. I just grinned. They are really entertaining to watch. Why would Vinny leave this crew?

I saw Mia approach her friend Yuna. I watched them from behind as we walked, carrying my bike. I didn't know where we were going, but I just followed Dom. They seemed to have a specific place for their training.

I was surprised to see Jay walking beside me. He wasn't riding his bike either, but he was already wearing his helmet. I couldn't help but laugh. He looked cute, though. He glanced at me and raised an eyebrow.

"So... Inertia drift is your thing, huh?" I asked, surprising him. "It was impressive, I watched some videos of you racing." I said, looking at the road. I noticed we were falling behind. Dom walked really fast.

He still didn't say anything. He was like a mute.

"I also watched how you lean in." Based on what I saw, it was surprising that he could pull off that move. It wasn't an easy skill; it was dangerous.

"But your slide is a bit risky. Your grip on the bike isn't in the right position."

"What?"

And now he was finally talking.

I smiled at him. "You need to balance your body. The grip of your hand and your body should be opposite so you can slide lower. That's the technique to make the lean-in look better." I explained. I showed him how I held the bike. "And also, this is how you should hold the handlebar."

He looked confused, but then he suddenly got on his bike and tried the position I showed him. His grip still seemed wrong, so I walked over to him. I parked my bike to the side.

"I noticed from the video that this is why you almost fell. You need to widen your elbows." I moved closer and adjusted his elbow.

I narrowed my eyes as I focused on his grip, then reached out to adjust the position of his hand. Just as I lifted my head to explain, I realized he was staring right at me. My eyes widened in surprise when it hit me that I was actually holding his hand! I quickly pulled away, feeling a rush of embarrassment.

"It's fine." he muttered, causing me to feel flustered.

"So yeah. That's how you do it." I cleared my throat before stepping back a little.

He was silent for a moment. He lowered his hands while sitting on the bike. How could he look so hot?

"Did you master it before you did it in the tournament?" I asked, looking at him.

He shook his head. "No..." It was obvious.

My eyes widened. "So you did it without practice?"

"Hmm," he nodded.

"Where did you learn that, by the way?" I asked as I finally sat on my bike.

"I don't know his name." irritation plastered on his face.

"So it's a 'he'? Does he have blonde hair?" I smirked. "It was Owen, right?"

He stiffened when he heard me mention that name. His expression darkened. He seemed shocked that I knew.

"How did you know?"

"Because I'm the one who taught him that move." I said with bitterness in my voice before looking at the road.

He was silent, but I could see the amusement in his eyes. I couldn't blame him. He might be even more surprised if I told him I knew his girlfriend too. I didn't want to mention that because he might ask more questions. I don't really want to talk about them anymore.

"What's your relationship with him?" he asked suddenly.

"Just someone I know." I lied. "Why? Is he your friend?" I asked, but his face darkened even more. He looked so annoyed.

"I'll teach you about Korean after this training." he changed the topic.

"Why so sudden?" I laughed.

He stared at me for a few seconds before looking away. "Your Korean sounds lame."

"What?!"

[stargazer-sims]

Dance Practice

Eden: Charlie, you are literally the best brother ever! I can't believe you managed this. I mean, I'm actually standing in Sugar Valentine's actual dance studio. I'm kinda freaking out a little.

Charlie: Only a little?

Eden: Okay, a lot! I'm gonna get to watch their dance practice. How many people can say they did that?

Charlie: Not just watch, remember.

Eden: Oh my Watcher... I know! I'm just trying not to actively think about it so I don’t completely lose my mind. How did you even convince them to let me dance with them?

Charlie: I can't take any credit for that. It was all Haru.

Eden: Really? No way. You're totally making that up.

Charlie: I swear I'm not. Apparently, he hasn't been able to shut up about you since he saw your pictures in my portfolio, that day I was here for my in-person interview. From what I heard, he wouldn't stop pestering Ms. Fujikawa and their security people and even Sheridan, until they all agreed you could come.

Eden: Haru... wanted to meet me that bad?

Charlie: Evidently.

Eden: I'm gonna wake up any minute now, aren't I?

Charlie: You're already awake, bro.

Eden: *incoherent fanboy squealing*

Charlie: Word of caution, though. He probably just wants to meet you so he can get into your jeans. He's got a pretty wild reputation, and according to Senjirō, it's all true.

Eden: You gossiped with Senjirō? You've worked with these guys for like, only a week, and the tea is already flowing? And you're so calm about it.

Charlie: They're just guys like us, you know. Anyway, be careful with Haru, okay?

Eden: You think I'm worried about him wanting to get into my jeans, as you put it? I've literally lost count of the people I've slept with at this point.

Charlie: Uh…

Eden: But like, if that's what he wants, I'm not gonna make him work for it. I might die of a heart attack if that really is what he wants, though.

Charlie: All right, fine. But, if you do end up, uh… doing it, don't tell anyone. And for the love of the Watcher, don't post about it on Simstagram.

Eden: Would I do that?

Charlie: Just... don't.

Eden: I won't, I promise.

Charlie: Okay. I'll stay here till everone comes downstairs, and then I'm heading over to Peak Entertainment to meet with Ms. Fujikawa. The security lady said she'd drive you to the rink after dance practice, but text me when you get there anyway.

Eden: I will.

Charlie: Her name is Ji-Soo. She’s South Korean, so you don’t need to speak Japanese. She also looks like she could lift a truck, so don’t be stupid around her.

Eden: Okay.

Charlie: Nikolai's gonna bring your skates to the rink for you, right?

Eden: Yeah, and my sweater and my favourite rink hat. That's what he said before we left. I could've brought them with me, but they don't fit in my dance bag, and I didn't want to carry too much stuff.

Charlie: Makes sense.

Eden: Ugh… afternoon practice. This would’ve been so much easier If I could’ve driven myself to the rink. Then, you could’ve picked me up there, and I could’ve just left my skates and stuff in my car.

Charlie: Yeah, and Nikolai still could’ve used your car while you were here. So, still no morning ice time, I guess?

Eden: No. probably not. Nikolai's signing up for Japanese classes today, and I think they're gonna be in the morning, so even if we could've gotten the ice time, it wouldn't have worked out anyway.

Charlie: That sucks, but at least you've got ice time.

Eden: And the best coach ever.

Charlie: Right. Well, don't wear yourself out at dance practice before you even get to the rink, or the best coach in the world may not be impressed.

Eden: *laughing* Nobody wants to see Nikolai in a bad mood, least of all me, but don't worry. I'll be fine to skate. I'm pretty sure the adrenaline rush from this morning will keep me going all day.

[khiphop-discussions]

Are any of these men still going to the military cause I could've sworn like half of them should've enlisted already but they out here having tours and doing god knows what? Did I miss anything?

Right???? So there's been lots of speculation over the last few years cause lots of people have been approaching military age.

Some people have mental health (and potentially physical health) issues that we don't know about (or at least not in the full depth). It depends on what the Korean government considers "debilitating". So those people don't have to go (People suspect Giriboy is in this category but I've also seen people say he actually does have to go. IDK I guess we'll just wait and see...but we've kinda been waiting for a LONG time already lol). People whose conditions aren't considered "debilitating" enough are allowed to do "non-active duty" work, like social work for example.

Based on recent events in KHH, some people are finding ways to dodge by making their money work for them. So Ravi and Nafla are the two most recent examples. But also, there's allegations that Gwangil Jo* did or is trying to dodge it as well.

*This was alleged during a diss song so take it with a grain of salt obviously

As for 1, there's actually quite a few people in KHH who are on medications that are related to mental health issues. I KNOW they have legal prescriptions which means they are currently, or at least at one point were, under a psychiatrists care. As for the "non-active duty" aspect, I'm not too sure how that works. I wonder if some people end up just working the equivalent of a regular 9-5 (or whatever times people work in Korea cause I know their work lives can sometimes be A LOT more hectic than ours in the US) and then go home? If that was the case, it might be easier for some people to just not announce their "enlistment" and just live their lives like a non-celebrity/entertainer. That would explain artists who just randomly go ghost for LONG periods of time. Again, I have NO clue how that really works though. This is just me thinking "out loud".

As for 2? I know it's illegal but I do NOT hold it against them. I DEFINITELY would be trying to dodge military service if it was me in that position LOL. Of course, the problem is (which I've seen some people highlighting when discussing the issue with Ravi) since some of these people are paying/bribing to get diagnosed with things they don't have, the evaluations are going to get even more strict and invasive which hurts people who are actually living with the conditions. Also, I would think some conditions (like mental health or one related to chronic pains, which are much harder to prove) might be re-evaluated as being "exempt" and even be taken off the list altogether. MC Mong some years ago had a dentist extract teeth unnecessarily in an attempt to dodge. He got caught as well. So again, people who genuinely had to have teeth removed are probably scrutinized more due to this.

The other problem is a class/money issue. Obviously only people with money are able to dodge in this way while the lower classes have no choice but to go.

[eviltiddyprodnz]

xo kitty: episode 2

aww kitty

the teacher should've just gone to the loo 💀 'why are you not dae'

lmfaooo wait i think she just made him her boyfriend for her mom. ( I thought this was going to happen but then just assumed the worst of dae 💀)

she is dating Julianna after all. saving your girlfriend's name as baby when your parents might not approve is pretty balsy tbh. my girl back at 99%

my mind going ↗️↖️⬆️⬇️ trying to comprehend what the fuck this teacher kitty conversation is supposed to be here for

who wrote the dialogues. what are these conversations. 💀 * Kitty walks in * the guy who had seventeen hot playing in the background 'this girl treats Korean guys like Pokemons' huh !???

Where did that even come from. random and unprovoked lmaooo like they've not had a single conversation.

lmaoo poor kitty. but all of this feels so anti climatic.

dae has sad puppy eyes but like at least text kitty 😭😭😭 like tell her what's up.

even kitty is being so chill about this lmao. he's getting clicked with another girl and she's having a monologue best saved for episode 3 🤣 okay i guess

I KNEW THIS WAS GOING TO HAPPEN as soon as I saw food on the table I knew she was going to crash into it but why now 😭

I was about to say slayyy but she just slipped and fell. let me settle open my embarrassment bag.

the way her entire class is about to know about all this. my girl <///3

I'm just going to accept their 0 emotion answers at this point 💀 like how is everything already settled and okay. not even a voice crack in sight

he looks more broken than her 💀

dae's eating it up!!!

aww Kitty 🥺 she's kinda handling it like a champ. let me give her a hug.

lmfaooo why did Q's entire dialogue sound like voice over. what is happening in the production of this show

Dae is the only one acting here 😭

let the wattapad games begin 🤩

at least she scared them away

now Minho sounds like he did a voice over 😭😭😭 why is the dialogue delivery and editing so weird here.

everyone sounds normal now

Minho 💀🤣 i want to say get over yourself but the 'she did this to be closer to Dae AND ME' kinda got me laughing

Minho's accent changed 80 times. Is he British???

she says she doesn't want to talk but you clearly have to?? 💀 I feel like in these moments one should simply just scream the answer ' not cheating cheating on you babe****'

not her being in Dae's room too this could've actually been fun 😭

this is just badly written and boring like at least them in the same room would've been fun!!!

Is Minho Australian or British. Let me Google. A little bit of British in there! also Yuri is his sister irl 💀

Q being real rn. American people will tell you to follow your heart!

Dae is wearing that necklace!!!

I'm sorry but a little scroll through my blogs and you'll know someone wearing a necklace or a ring in a necklace their partner gave them is my kryptonite.

he's acting so well that i am currently rooting for him

lmfao Minho trying to cuddle Dae. #real

not a single emotion in this show is translating through the screen 😔

awww he's sleeping by her door. it's giving puppy, it's giving love, it's giving give me a chance to explain and I'm eating it up 😭

Kitty don't leave your suitcase just on the damn road like that 😭😭😭 the cherry blossom is beautiful but please keep an eye out for your bag!

her mom wants her to stay here maybe idk 🤩

this show is so quiet I'm so serious. not a worry, not an emotion. it's just there. minho's a little funny though.

and she's gone and dae left in the quietest way possible 💀

Dae about to have the worst semester of his life because Yuri's mom will keep them together hence keeping him from Kitty check ✔️

Yuri staring her dad with an open mouth after making that lettuce meme (slay!) if these weren't just consequences of her own actions 😭

Dae running to find his girl in pyjamas. Adorable and real

the kiss that didn't happen was the closest we got to emotions and his dad is here to get him now 😔

they're about to make him sign an NDA my man is GONE

I feel like she could've probably seen the resignation and desperation on his face but she's right to be angry for as long as she likes so I move.

if she choose Minho over Dae, how am I not supposed to feel bad for Dae 💀 once again money ruining things !!!

She clocked in that he's miserable!

this is so unserious why are teenagers having to talk about their relationship

Dae having the worst week of his life, my poor bb. I have decided to adopt him

[remrse]

i'm here with a little update about jaerim, as well as a plot call for this month's event, which jaerim will be hosting! if we haven't already plotted or if you'd like to plot for the event, just hit me up! if you'd like to do an event thread on top of our ongoing threads, i'll be down to do a shorter thread for the event! i'm available on both ims and discord, whichever you prefer.

first things first, jaerim has now taken on the moneybags skeleton which does not change much (or anything, really). to begin with, the gossipgate scandal did not affect him very much as his family is very influential (especially in the arts) so his career was already laid out for him. however, i did flesh out some details about his family that might come up in some threads:

his family is one of, if not the most, influential families in the arts; basically old money with a long lineage of artists (and other art related careers)

they also think they are superior to others because they are "cultured" on top of their wealth

it was always a career in the arts or risk being the black sheep of the family

every child born in the seo family would be sent for art classes, it is as important as learning the korean language

his family is very image-focused, often portraying themselves to be polished and sophisticated, people with refined tastes

naturally, they do not tolerate scandals that could potentially damper their image

they paid off media outlets to keep jaerim's name out of the gossipgate news so while you could kind of make him out in the video, there is no real confirmation of him being in it

they were also the ones that had insisted his then girlfriend have the abortion (see: his biggest gossip girl scandal)

he never had issues with college acceptances because his family name guarantees him a spot in any art program (probably also due to nepotism because he has relatives who are art professors)

while his parents are okay with jaerim dating around, they are incredibly picky when it comes to his potential marriage partner (they do not have to be in the arts themselves, but they would have to be from an influential family)

now, onto the event, which is held at his family's museum! it's basically the opening of a new gallery, with an exhibition curated by jaerim. in line with that, jaerim would display a painting of his, revealed for the first time at the event. the painting would be of a woman, rumoured to be inspired by one of his exes or past love interests/crushes, though her identity is unknown. this is just a brief idea, in need of more plotting. just thought it would be fun to add a bit of drama! with that said, here are some plot ideas i came up with:

maybe your muse could be the subject of his painting and she doesn't know it (or she could know, if she had modelled for him), maybe it could be a nude painting (with or without her consent), anything juicy — nothing's set in stone yet so i'm open to anything!

or your muse (or most people) thought the painting was of her, when it in fact, wasn't

maybe your muse sends a tip in to gg that the painting is of them, even though it wasn't, or your muse knows the painting is of them and intentionally sent it in to gg so everyone else would know too

jaerim's date for the event; seeing as this would be a very important (and public) event for his family, they would expect him to go with someone who is also from an influential family (does not have to be a romantic interest, could be someone that his family thinks is good for him)

or he could just go against his family's wishes and bring someone he wants to bring (because he likes them, or it could even be platonic, like they're just a good friend who could ground him when he's stressed, which he will be at this event)

he could bring you on a private tour of the gallery, either before its opening or after, to beat the crowds. it would be quiet and empty so it could be romantic! he might tell you cheesy things like you're prettier than the artworks or steal a kiss behind some fancy installation with a sign that says "do not touch the art"

jaerim could've auctioned his painting and it was sold to you (for whatever reason — the painting could be of you, or it wasn't of you and you wanted it destroyed, or you just thought it would be funny to see his reaction, or you just liked it and had more money than everyone else lol) and he personally hands it to you after the auction

both of you dislike each other but the media and press are watching so you put on a show just for them, even go as far as to take a chummy picture together

you had wine spilled on you at the refreshment party and jaerim takes you back to the museum to get cleaned or changed (maybe all he has is another set of his own clothes and you walk out of the changing room in his shirt... looking a little scandalous...)

you meet jaerim for the first time at the event; maybe you were introduced to each other during the refreshment party, or you meet on one of the tours around the new gallery. doesn't have to be anything complicated, could just be a first meeting for our muses who do not have pre-existing connections!

not sure if we have any muses who are artists but if there are any, maybe your work is displayed at the exhibition!

if none of these work, i'm down to brainstorm and come up with something fun for our muses! click here for my intro if you need more information about jaerim (it's been updated with the above mentioned changes). anything else, feel free to drop me a message on ims or discord!

[smol-grey-tea]

Secret Ending Three - Chapter Four: Options

Been ages since I've done any writing. Finally sat down to get some done.

I did some research into Korean culture for this chapter. The stuff that Lance says about school looks to be true, from what the internet has told me.

It's funny. My teddy bear's hand in mine, I'm sitting here at Banjul. A cafe. Places famous for the clutter and mess of food. Facing me is my silver haired doll, looking down at the papers he's placed on the table. The surface is clear of crumbs and completely spotless, now covered in notebooks and forms, all ordered neatly beside each other. It's all colour coded and even the pens sit next to each other in their black-blue-red order.

"Now, I've written up, in detail, what each option for us entails. Facts are written in black, opinions are written in blue. Pros on the left, cons on the right. In this folder is all the information you need about the academy, while this folder has information about jobs or other opportunities. Here is a pad for your own notes. Any questions..? Yes, Red?" "When can I go to the bathroom?" "You should have gone during lunch." "But I didn't need to go then!" "Fine," Lance relented with a tired sigh. I think if this were my first impression of school, I'd rather just stay home.

"It looks like a lot..." he says beside me, fidgeting with his sleeves as he takes all the paperwork in front of him in. "I'll definitely be in the same class as you guys though, right?" "Oh, of course, I'll make sure of it," I reply. "In my class, there'll be you, Lance, Yeonho, Soi and Shinbi. I'm the health commissioner, meaning that Mr Yujin gets to boss me around; Soi's the class president, so she kind of represents the class and is in charge when there's no teacher, and Shinbi's the vice president... You remember Soi and Shinbi, right?" "How could I forget that noisy blonde girl who wants to be a model?" "Oh, Soi's not the model, Shinbi is. She's on loads of magazines, but her dream job is to be a full time model for this one company... Hmm, I can't remember the name of it right now, but I know it's a big one." "Yeah... I can't blame you for not knowing, it sounds really boring. Standing around, posing in different outfits. I've done enough of that." "Well, maybe it's boring to you," I considered, sipping the last of my tea. "I just know she really enjoys it... Oh, and I also really like the clothing."

"Well, alright then... But do I have to become a class commissioner or a health president too? It sounds demanding" "You don't have to have any particular role in the school, no," Lance explained, for once refusing the chance to correct someone's poor wording. "But you can if you want to. Unfortunately, those specific roles are already taken, but you can take up similar roles in clubs."

Lance flipped through the academy folder and found the section he wrote on clubs. I don't think there'll be a day that the beautiful and professional way he organises everything doesn't amaze me. There lies, first of all, a contents page, listing all the different clubs in the school. The next few pages go into more detail about what each club is about, who founded them, and other things like where it's held and when.

"I, personally, am a member of the student government. This means that I handle matters relating to the school and making sure that everything runs smoothly, like ensuring that other clubs are being appropriate and not breaking any rules in their activities." "... By cross dressing?"

I watch Lance's pale face cloud pink and smile to myself, watching his eyes find anything to focus on other than us... Heheh... I had no idea something like that might come out of my bear's mouth.

"... What?" Red, who'd returned from the bathroom, asked. "Cross dressing? What do you mean?" "Um..." I struggled to find words without almost bursting out laughing. But Lance cleared his throat, reorganising the papers. "That is none of your concern... Let us change the subject if we're done with this topic." "But-"

"School doesn't just consist of club activities and friends though. You will attend classes every day, including maths, science, Korean, moral education, social studies, practical arts, physical education, music, fine arts, and foreign languages." "Right..." says my bear, head in his hands. "Classes are fifty minutes long with a ten minute break in between and seven classes a day, beginning at eight forty in the morning, ending usually at about four thirty in the afternoon." "Uh huh..." "You will be provided with notebooks for each class and will be expected to make sufficient notes during so that you will be able to pass all the exa-."

"When can I go to the bathroom?" "... Well, the teacher will usually let you go to the bathroom if you ask-" "It's over that way, isn't it?" "Oh... You meant right now."

He stood up and walked in the direction he saw Red walking in earlier, before finally finding his way and disappearing from sight. Lance watched him silently, probably wanting to object, but instead turned his attention back to his notes with a sigh.

"Where do you think the nearest stationery shop might be? We could take him there afterwards and see if he'd like a particular set." "Oh, that's a good idea. I'm not too familiar with this area though. Maybe I'll look it up."

I opened my smartphone and flicked past the background of the seven of us to find a search engine. The clever map on my phone highlights a bunch of different shops, one that's about a ten minute walk away. I never knew before that the internet would let me see a street view of the place from my phone, as if I were there myself. There are a couple of people around and even a dog. On the left is a cute looking candy store, and on the right...

...an estate agent...

... Right. Some of the dolls might have to move. We'll probably have to use one of these.

I wonder... It wouldn't hurt to take a look, right?

The website lists properties that are near and far, small and big, cheap and expensive. It looks like there are a few properties with two bedrooms not that far from our house actually. Might some of us have to move into a place like this?

Just out of curiosity though... Just because they're pretty to look at, some of these four bedroom houses look nice. This one has two bathrooms and even has a pretty cherry tree in the back garden.

"Did you find one?" Lance's cold voice snaps me out of my trance. "Huh..? Uh, yeah. This one looks good." "..." "..." "... That's a house." "... Huh." "No stationery shops around?" "... Oh! Yeah, uh... I found one near here, yeah." "Okay, then let's go there after. But..." "Hm?"

"I'm worried." "Why?" "Hasn't he been in the bathroom for a while now?" "Oh... Come to think of it, yeah." I must have spent longer than I thought on that letting website. "Do you think he's alright?" "I don't know... Would you go and check on him?" "Yeah, I should. I'll be right back."

Through a small hallway decorated with elegant instruments and antique cutlery was just one bathroom. The red colouring above the door handle showed it was definitely occupied, and it's thankfully quiet today, so there's no queue.

I hesitantly knock. "Hey, it's me. You've been a while, are you okay?" There's a shuffle before the door becomes unlocked... Does this mean I should come in?

I'm met with the view of my bear sitting in the corner of the room, huddled into a small ball... It looks quite sad.

"I want to go home," he mumbled, barely audible. "Oh my god... Are you okay? Are you alright? You're not hurt, are you?" I close the door behind me and he simply shakes his head as I cradle him in my arms.

"This isn't gonna work, I'm not good at anything. How am I supposed to go to school? I've only ever watched you at school, I've never actually been there myself. And even if it wasn't so hard, it's always so crowded. If you struggle with school and you've been doing it for years, how awful am I gonna be at it? That silver head thinks it's so easy. At least those dolls were made with the idea of going about society. I was just made to be cuddly and stay home. How am I gonna do this..."

"What? No way! I'm so sorry we made you feel that way, but I promise it's not that bad. And besides, you don't have to get straight As if it's too difficult. We can just take it slowly." "You really think so? You don't remember how that guy used to lecture you every single day and study with you for hours? How many questions you got wrong? You don't remember what he said about Yeonho being bad at maths?" "I..." "Even if it doesn't matter what the teachers think, he'll still be there when I go home. At least in the near future. I can't do it at school or at home and I'll just be bringing everyone else down with them trying to support me. It's not gonna work. Should we just give up?"

"Hey... I know how you feel. School is difficult for me too. But you can't give up when you haven't even started yet. And you don't have to be good at everything. We don't have to worry about exams anyway when we have more important stuff to worry about right now." "But Lance..." "Just... Listen. He's not gonna hurt you. He can be harsh sometimes and definitely a bit intimidating, especially when it comes to school, but he just really likes to stick to the rules. He'll understand if you're not breaking the rules just because you can. You're struggling. It's... Hmm."

Maybe I should have noticed sooner the way that he was getting so overwhelmed by what Lance was saying. And all the papers as well. Even how clean the table was. Lance sure can be a bit overbearing at times... But he doesn't mean it.

"I think it's something that we should just talk to Lance about. He's definitely the expert, right? He's even a discipline guide, so it's his job to help." "Really..?" "Yeah. Even if he can't help, it's best to be straight forward about it anyway. This is your future we're discussing here. We shouldn't just get all the facts straight about the academy, we should get the facts straight about you and how you feel too. Come on. Let's go and speak to Lance now, yeah?" "I..." I looked into his face and held my hand out to him. "Okay. Let's go." His hand is soft and warm in mine.

We didn't have to walk too far to find him though. As soon as we opened the bathroom door, there he stood in the hallway. I'd chastise him for eavesdropping, but I think this is an exception.

"Um..." He clears his throat again, hands visibly fidgeting behind his back. "So... I didn't... Well... I understand if you no longer wish to go to the academy. It's not something that's easy." I stroked the hand in mine with my thumb supportively. "Uh... It might be okay if I try going to the academy... It's just... What if I fail..."

"That's okay. I understand that I might have overwhelmed you with information and may have emphasised the negative aspects too much. I know that I've been quite insensitive towards other people in the past, but I'm working on changing that now." Lance bows his head sincerely towards us both. The ice is melting in his heart...

"I will do everything in my power to help you acclimate to the academy and will ensure that you always stay on top of classes and have enough time off if it becomes too overwhelming. I will personally give you a tour of the school on the first day and give you the highest of quality study sessions, according to your own schedule and preferences."

He straightens himself up and smooths down his clothes and my attention is once again drawn to his tidiness. His clothes had been recently ironed and even his fingernails were trimmed neatly in the same shape and size as each other.

"But I'm not saying this just to impress the owner. We are in competition, after all." I keep almost forgetting... "So I've had to start considering what my life might entail if I am not the one to win. I would like to pursue the position of student government president.

"A big aspect of being the student government president is impartiality and strict adherence to the rules. But I have learned, through Eri's help, the importance of emotions and patience. I know now that another big aspect of being the student government president is trying to understand other people's perspectives and why they might not be following the rules or meeting the highest standards."

Lance looks into his eyes, determined. I don't know how my bear's feeling, but I feel really happy that Lance is saying something so kind and thoughtful. I remember how his nickname, Ice Prince, didn't just come from his looks, but from his past attitude towards people. I'd almost forgotten that Lance hasn't always been so thoughtful. He was getting ahead of himself earlier, talking about the academy without thinking, but it was him who said he was worried. Worried about someone else...

"If you ever find yourself in a problem relating to the academy, you can always come to me. I do not mind and I can always make time to help people in need. That is my vow," he said with a final bow. "I...greatly appreciate it," my bear said, bowing back in reply.

I can't help but smile at this scene. We return to our seats and the rest of the day at Banjul goes much more smoothly. All in all, a good day. I hope I never forget these happy memories together.

[smollobsession]

my slow improvement in doing things continues.

the biggest step so far continues to be that i'm sleeping normal amounts of hours. i average on 8h a night and that's perfect. some days i go up to 10, some days i go to sleep late and still only get 6, but it's not 4 any more so wow yay woo.

i'm making simple lunches for work, but they are healthy and i AM making them :D

i realized that while it's true that i rarely crave sweets now, i still have a strong habit of thinking i need them, buying them, and if they are in front of me i will eat compulsively. but once i put them in the cupboard i forget they exist and i'm fine. (i did quite enjoy the peruvian sweets :D )

I met up with E a few times this week and she gave me a bunch of things. Most notably, a shirt! it fits me and the colors are wild :D i'm not sure what i'd wear down with it, but my wardrobe needs a bit of a refresher ... some time when i get paid and have money to burn i guess grr.

She gave me this herbal supplement that people seem to love by AG but I read once (and double checked now) and it's really hard to make sure that all the 6789098765 ingredients in the supplement don't mess with the ssri. so i think i'll give it back. i'm also gonna ask her to check if her sleeping problems didn't return once she started taking it.

she made banana bread with spelt flour and gave it to me today, it is DELICIOUS!

and finally, she gave me a bunch of perfume testers, one of them was for givenchy's l'interdit and i LOVE it so much i'm actually planning to buy it. again, money, what is it. C might be able to get it for me cheaper, and she also has a small version of it at home that she'll get me! :D having friends is nice.

i kinda want to find a dnd group or go watch hockey again... but all that would do better to wait for my next job, with a hope in more normal work hours.

I did treat myself by NOT buying the skz tour dvd because I was like... I literally don't have a dvd player what is the endgame here. i would much prefer for them to announce a tour here and spend money on multiple concerts.

work is causing a bit of anxiety as always. i had to have some discussions about not being racist in class pls, some insecurities about the upcoming exam etc. also i've already started working on the evaluations because it's so repetitive and boring for some students. what's the point.

i'm lowkey getting inspired to write again, so that lxc/jc fic might get another chapter soon :D it's been... 3 years now? :D if only i didn't keep changing previous chapters so i could at least post is as wip. but no, it only lives in my head :P

i am NOT keeping up with the raids needed to finish that timed challenge in pogo, i should probably do some stupid 1* raids even if i hate them, just to up the numbers. but i really want to do more shadow raids at the weekend. last sunday i went to the center but damn for once it was empty.

yesterday channie came online again and of course i was working but i snuck in 10 min of him during the break. it was so good to see him. and just as i was on the break, lino came to bbl :D <3 my minchan always :)

my korean is going well but i really really need to get a teacher again. i'm eating through duo too quickly :D

[purecantarella]

Stuck With You

so i'm back for a bit, i just thought that the holidays are a nice time for a lot of prompts, in fact i had a list of christmas prompts i wanted to do but here we are. i hope you all had a good holiday and enjoy the fic! jeongyeon x reader : roommates!AU disclaimer/s : nothing but a few curse words.

To say that you and your college roommate didn't get along was the understatement of the century. While you could go a few days without wanting to absolutely rip each other's heads off, it came with so much effort. Both of you had schedules when you were in and out of the house, your classes and work-hours almost explicitly crossed over periods when you knew they'd be at home.

Now Jeongyeon could opt to move in with her other friends but sadly their rents would badly damage her tight monthly budget. She supposed that you were the exact same.

It was a silent agreement you both had that when it came to holidays, she would stay at home and you would go clubbing with your friends at night and she would visit her family the next day while you nursed your hang-over or kicked whatever skank you banged the night prior.

The latter was less likely since you began dating the biggest hoe on the campus. She was the most stereotypical hot girl in college, blonde, leggy, and possessive as ever living hell.

In any case though, you would likely be partying at some random club downtown and Jeongyeon was excited to be able to binge watch the latest dramas that came out during her finals week. She propped herself on the couch in the apartment, Christmas themed snacks sitting in front of her with the screen in front of her serving as the only light in the dark room.

The blonde was well-immersed in what she was watching. Feeling frustrated with the characters and their actions, the Korean woman began yelling at the television, "Yah! If you wanted her to stay why'd you let her go?!"

"Try not to judge the poor man too hard, he's already standing alone in the rain." Jeongyeon jumped and screamed at the sudden voice breaking the illusion of the perfect night. She scowled as she saw your shit-eating grin over your face. The taller girl rolled her eyes before leaning forward to pause her show when you jumped over the couch and sat across from the other woman.

Jeongyeon eyed you strangely but nonetheless leaned back into her position. It was a rare moment when the two of you were able to coexist in the apartment without any argument erupting between the both of you. For a moment, you could almost pass off as friends.

"This stuff you're watching is both dumb and predictable, Yoo." You commented, followed by a snicker. You leaned back to stare at her, amused smile still very much present over your expression. She rolled her eyes and kicked a pillow in your direction. "If you're soooo bugged by the show I'm watching, why're you here?" She quirked a brow while the smile on your face continued to grow. You were enjoying yourself too damn much, she thought. "Shouldn't you be with your perfect sorority girlfriend anyway?"

The expression you wore faded briefly and was quickly masked with a far less sincere smile. "She'd been hooking up with some random ass jock for a couple weeks now. 'Sall good though, she kind of sucked anyway. In all ways, Yoo." You wiggled your brows suggestively, making the other woman giggle softly.

"You're an idiot..." She paused briefly, contemplating whether or not to say it. "...But yes, she was kind of a bitch." You smirked at her, leaning a little closer to her side of the couch. "Aww, Yoo Jeongyeon was concerned about the girls I was bringing home? Careful, I might think you like me." Jeongyeon rolled her eyes again, but it was somehow not hostile at all.

The taller girl didn't respond and merely turned her attention back to the television in front of them. She could still feel your gaze on her and it made her somehow anxious and a little self-conscious. Jeongyeon wasn't exactly looking like a 10 right now while you were fully glammed out, ready for a night on the town.

You always looked good to Jeong, even when you were hung-over out of your mind and spitting insults her way. She'd be lying if she said that you were unattractive in any way. It wasn't exactly your personality that made girls and boys in your campus lust over you incessantly.

Her ears grew hot at the thought of your appearance. 'Why's this coming out now all of a sudden?' She wondered as you turned back to the screen, adjusting your position on the couch. One were your bare forearm was brushing against her sweat-clad calve. Once she gained her composure, you both found a solid rapport, dissing the characters and questioning plot points.

It was foreign for the both of you to talk to each other for hours without completely wanting to strangle one another. It was rather pleasant actually. There were brief moments where either one of you stared at the other only to be caught. It was foreign...but it was also very welcomed.

It was a little after 11:30 when you got up to stretch your back and arms. She eyed your form subtly. Well, as subtly as she could at the very least. You smirked feeling her gaze over you, quickly you turned to face her. A flush taking over her cheeks as she moved her line of sight to the screen. "You aren't going to stay?" She asked, pulling herself away from the pillow she'd wrapped her arms tightly around.

"Nah, I was thinking that we could go out eat. My treat." You muttered before walking over to the coatrack, pulling your faux leather jacket over yourself. You shot her a quick look, eyes intense and deep. Jeongyeon swallowed thickly before faking annoyance.

"We, L/n?"

"Oh don't pretend you aren't hungry, Yoo." You muttered, pointing to the junk food that lay half eaten on the coffee table beside the couch. "That's hardly a substantial meal." She hated to admit it, but the shorter girl was right. It'd been hours since her last half decent meal.

Reluctantly, the blonde woman pulled herself off of the soft, plush couch. You smirked offering her one of your jackets. "Hard pass, L/n. I don't-"

"Oh come on, Yoo. It's the most fashionable you'll ever look, plus I wanna see how you'd look in my clothes." You'd whispered that last bit but it was as if you had screamed it in her ear. Her heart pulsed in her chest before she yanked the jacket from your hand in attempts to get out of your line of sight to hide the blush that was now very present on her usually paler cheeks.

You two'd walked a little distance out of campus in a comfortable silence. The cold nipped you a little since you'd given your thicker jacket to the taller girl and as tough as you tried to act, there was still a tremble that was noticeable if you looked long enough. And Jeong had been staring a little longer than she had initially wanted.

You'd considered to stop by one of the many convenience stores to pick up a portable heating pad when you were pulled closer suddenly to a much taller form. You stared up at the blonde woman who kept her eyes glued forward. You smirked and opened your mouth to spit a snarky remark when she cut you off first. "You say anything, I will shove you into the pavement and keep walking."

You rolled your eyes and nuzzled yourself closer to her. "I was just going to say how warm and nice you look in my jacket." You teased gently before noticing the small smile that grew on the taller girl's face. Soon, you found yourselves falling silent again.

After a while of searching to no avail for a still open restaurant, you both opted to stop by an almost abandoned food truck. You leaned up and read the menu while Jeongyeon adjusted herself a little. "One fishcake for me and some tteokbokki for her please." You said with a kind smile for the old man. The blonde woman stared at you in shock but before she could say anything you looked back at her. Allowing yourself to lean back, your hand keeping you stable.

"Don't look so surprised, Yoo. You may keep a clean house but I've seen the instant packaging of this stuff in the trash." You smiled up at the older girl, for the first time to Jeongyeon, it didn't feel forced or teasing or even snarky. It was a genuine smile.

You leaned onto the metal frame of the truck, taking the food in your mouth, happily humming at the warmth it brought and the savory taste. Jeongyeon approached you slowly before standing beside you, her own food in hand. There were no words exchanged for a good minute. Finally she looked down at you, eyes closed taking in the calm around the both of you.

"Why didn't you move out after the first month we were together?" Jeongyeon piped up suddenly making your eyes open slowly, pulling your attention from the cold night sky. "We clearly didn't get along until tonight." A small grin over your lips.

"I thought it'd be an adventure." You said simply before placing a soft kiss over the tip of her nose. "Looks like I was right, wouldn't you say?"

Just as you said so, a spark exploded in the sky. You gasped happily before pushing yourself off the truck and stared up at the sky excitedly. Jeongyeon followed suit rather easily. She looked down at you, a warmth filling her from seeing the elation in your eyes. Something she's never seen until tonight.

Tentatively, she took your hand in hers. Your expression shifted as you looked down at her hand grasping yours gently before you smiled again, lacing your fingers with hers. A big grin fell over your lips as you nudged her softly.

"Guess your stuck with me for the holidays, huh, Yoo?" You teased before she chuckled softly.

"Yeah, I guess I am."

[halesandy]

For those who learn Korean language

I'm gonna share some sources I use to learn Korean language, as well as some tips that work for me. Feel free to add something of yours to this list, so we can help each other!

Websites

Talk To Me In Korean (TTMIK) - an amazing source to learn Korean from 0 to advanced! They have online courses, textbooks and workbooks with audios, YouTube channel and so so much more that you should check out!

Korean Flashcards - here you can find and print Korean flashcards with emoji! They also have blank flashcards and a few other languages for you to use and learn!

Korean Keyboard - if your PC, like mine, can't work with Korean language when typing, you can use this website. It helps when I need to write something, I just copy the text and past it where I need it.

Good Job Korean - these guys also have great course for beginners, with videos and a lot of practice.

Clozemaster - has a lot of articles for you to read about Korean Language.

Apps

Duolingo - a well known language learning app that can help you build your vocabulary. For the theory you might want to use their website, 'cause for now they don't have it in the app. For the better experience you can buy Premium, but if you don't mind a lot of ads, you can use it for free. You can also use my invitation link for some bonus if you use this app for the first time.

Avocards - make and use flashcards. Here you can find a lot of themes and topics for learning, build your TOPIK I and II vocabulary and even learn K-pop songs!

NAVER Dictionary - the app you will definitely need at some point. It has a huge amount of words and phrases, TOPIK practice, audio and so on.

TTMIK: Audio - for those who chose to learn Korean with TTMIK. This app opens audio for books you've bought from TTMIK. If you're using an unofficial copy of the book, it might be hard to use this app.

Beelinguapp - a storage of texts that you learn to read and understand. I didn't use this app much, but my first impression of it was really good.

Teachers on social media

@ mykoreandic on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube

@ learnkoreanwith.me on TikTok

@ kunkorean and @ jin_koreannerdy on TikTok - those guys from Good Job Korean

@ inakimieee on TikTok and Instagram - also has zoom classes and e-books

Tips

Korean Dramas - watch it with subtitles. It won't be news for you, bit it actually helps.

Listen to Korean songs and read their lyrics

When looking for a word in dictionary, search for two-three more related words for bigger and stronger vocabulary.

Use your virtual assistant (like Siri or Alexa). You can always ask "Hey Siri! How do I say _____ in Korean?"

Read news articles if you don't have enough of time to read books. It will also help you fill your vocabulary with more life related words and phrases.

Textbooks

Korean Grammar in Use - a gem, really. It has three levels, as far as I know, and its way of presenting grammar is pretty easy to understand. You might really need this book.

Dirty Korean: Everyday Slang by Haewon Geebi Baek.

This book is designed to teach you all those sorts of words, the ones that your professors were too scared to teach you, those phrases too raunchy to appear in any textbook and all those expressions you would never, ever say in front of your mother—in short, all the sayings that you actually give a shit about.

Korean for Dummies by Jungwook Hong and Wang Lee

You probably know more about Korean than you think you do. Maybe you own a Korean-made cellphone or car. You may have had some Korean food or watched a Korean film, and maybe you’ve even heard something interesting about Korea in the news. But if you want to learn how to speak Korean, you’re probably interested in speaking and interacting with Korean people. Perhaps you’re doing business with a company in Korea, or perhaps you’re planning to travel to Korea. Whatever the case, Korean For Dummies will go a long way toward helping you get a handle on the Korean language.

Talk To Me In Korean Textbooks. I know I talked about TTMIK enough already, bu listen. They have so many interesting and helpful books for every level of knowledge and situation. My favorites:

Common Mistakes Korean Learners Make

Hangeul Master

My First 500 Korean Words

Real-Life Korean Conversations For Beginners

Survival Korean

How To Sound Like A Native Korean Speaker

I know that it won't be just one part I make. I learn myself and I probably will find more sources and tips that I would like to share.

Let me know if this list was helpful! Also please let me know what books, courses, apps etc. do you use to learn Korean language!

[soojinscherries]

Can you tell us the details about faline or y/n please??

I wrote this out in my notebook a while back, and it's based off of what google would give if you looked someone up.

--

Fauna

(Japanese singer)

Faline Yazawa, better known by her nickname and stage name Fauna, is a Japanese singer, rapper, and songwriter based in South Korea. She is a member of South Korean girl group I-dle, which debuted on May 2, 2018 under Cube Entertainment.

Born: Febuary 13, 2000 (age 22 years), Osaka, Japan

Height: 5'0'' (Soyeon's favorite detail)

Full name: Yazawa Faline

Hangul: 동물군

Kanji: 動物相

(^ might be wrong ^)

Parents: Yazawa Hana

--

Now other facts, that an average fan would have to dig a little deeper to find (bold), or only her close friends know (reg).

--

Faline is an only child, she was born in Osaka, Japan, and moved to Toronto when she was one. Her father, a real prick, left as soon as her mother (Hana) told him that she was pregnant. Hana was 18 at the time of birth, and she raised Faline with some money that her dad gave her after her own mother had kicked her out of the house for being a "Disgrace to their family". Faline never knew who her dad was, and was perfectly fine not knowing.

She did get some trouble at school, because some kids thought it was weird that she didn't have a dad and no one would play with her. The Faline met Elizabeth Hyun, a Korean/Canadian girl, and they instantly became best friends. They stuck together all through elementary, middle, and high school, well, not all of high school. (<- will be explained as the story goes on)

Other friends Faline meets in middle/high school:

Ein Hartvig, Danish and a cool guy, they met after Elizabeth and Elizabeth's soon-to-be boyfriend and Ein's friend set them up on a date, knowing that they already kind of knew each other from being in band together, but not knowing that they both were gay, but it kinda worked out in the end 'cause Faline and Ein continued on as best friends, even on into Faline's idol life. Also the person who taught Faline how to speak Danish. (Fans found out about Ein and Faline being friends when Ein called Faline on his live stream *not sure what to call this show, like whether it could be something almost like Seulgi.zip or Miyeon's show* to prove that they are friends to some Nevies who were in chat). Faline also worked at Ein's dad's car shop.

Caroline/Yujun Chung, Korean, her and Faline had something going on back in high school, even fans suspect it, but what happened in the janitor's closet, stays in the janitor's closet wink wink. And if you asked either of them, they'd say their relationship was never set in stone, so more like fwb. Caroline and Faline met through band, they both played trumpet and sat next to each other in class. And it was obvious that Caroline had a big, fat crush on Faline, but the ladder barely noticed, already having her eyes on someone else. (My mind is blanking here, but that is about it with Caroline)

Then there's Jonas, don't have a last name for him yet, but just know that he's a prick <3

That's about all I can give without spoiling too much of the story. I'll have to figure out how exactly I'm gonna post these, cause I really just wrote them as short snippets, not following any order- But that's a problem for future me, so stay tuned :)

edit: Forgot some minor details, like how when she was 15, she moved back to Japan, and how she decided that she wanted to be an idol on the whim--her Korean skills are a little better than Shuhua’s, she has more mistakes in writing than in speaking, and focuses on her pronunciation a bit more than grammar. She joined Cube the same time Miyeon did, and Miyeon was her first friend in Korea, so she’s also the member she’s closest to in I-dle. She didn’t come to Korea with 0 knowledge of Korean, having 2 close friends who were Korean, she knew a little bit from what they’d teach her sometimes, so she knew some basic stuff. 

She also has a black Maine Coon named Lucky, and a Cockatoo, that lives with her mom back in Canada, named Joy (Yes, named after Red Velvet’s Joy--Faline is a b i g Luvie) :] Might give her a third pet, I kinda want her to be one of those people, like Lisa, who has so many pets that it’s almost absurd- Originally the third pet was going to be a cotton candy corn snake named Zaki, but idk if that’d be too much? Prolly not, I-dle is already chaotic, having the fictional member have a snake shouldn’t be a problem-

[giorgiastastes]

버닝 / Burning (2018)

"It's too close, you might not see it"

What to say about this movie...

The film itself is quite simple, even too easy at first sighting I'd dare to say, but the meaning behind, the interpretations and smart details is what makes it unique and pretty much a masterpiece.

I'm sure that most people, or at least those who usually watch unchallenging to elaborate movies, won't like it. If you're looking for something what will be "explained to you", for the director to give you that big plot twist or long monologue, you won't find it here. But if you want to watch a work of art that'll make you think, reflect and crash your minds, you have a good journey in front of you.

I remember that as soon as I've finished watching it I went online to look for theories, to see if someone else had the same idea as me, if I got it right and what I've missed, and then I planned to write here my thoughts on the real explaination, but after rewatching and searching I've figured it out BURNING doesn't really have a "true" explaination in my idea, or better, the director definitely knows what he believes is the so called truth, but the strength of it is how free of interpretations it is. I've read hundreds theories and honestly all of them could fit just right, so for once I've decided to do something different.

In here I will summarize all the theories, under layers and explaination that I've read, figured out or found, and I will leave to you, the reader, to believe your own "truth"

This will be full of spoilers, it's actually a summarization of the after watch, so read at your own risk, and since I'm taking for granted that you've watched the movie and remember it quite well too, I won't always repeat the plot when not necessary.

• Ben sells organs on the black market. That's how he gets his money and Haemi is aware of this, and decided to sell her own organs to pay off her debt. She even says I'D SELL MY ORGANS IF I WERE YOUNGER. She could also be unaware of this and that's why she dissapears.

• Ben is a serial killer. He seduces fragile women who are very easy preys to such an handsome and carismactic young man, and then gets rid of them after he gets tired. This happens about every couple of months, which corresponds to his journey in Africa timeline. They are the greenhouses he burns, because he knows nobody will look for them, and in fact the police does not care about the greenhouses, just like they don't care about missing women nobody knows about.

Ben also owns all the qualities of a maniac sociopath who's keen on control and feels no emotion or empathy. He never cries for example. He also feels pride in his crime and he's almost tempted to confess them to show how good he is. That's why he says to Jongsu that he will burn a greenhouse close to him, but he didn't mean it in a special terminology, but more like in an emotional sense. He will kill the the closest thing the other has, which is Haemi. He also states that she dissapeared like "smoke".

This would also be justified by the creepy call the protagonist receives by Haemi before she dissapears. The biggest evidence placed by the director to prove that this theory is the most correct one is in the last scene, where Ben is putting makeup on a new girl. For a non Korean speaker it's quite hard to get the reference but Makeup and corpses' cremation are spelled in the same way in the hangul language, therefore the movie showing us Ben doing the girl's makeup is the alternative way to say he's killed her and is now cremating the body, hence his obsession with fires.

He's the one who cleaned Haemi's room and took her cat. He also keeps his victims personal objects as a throphy of some sort.

• Ben is a pimp. He's the trainer for these beautiful, young but poor women who are ready to sell themselves when he convinces them to do so. This is shown as Haemi also become less and less shy as the movie goes on, as seen in the undressing scene, while being more bold and provocative too. He changed her drastically, or maybe only let her discover a different, more free, part of herself. He also applies makeup on them how he would do to a doll, playing dress up for a woman who's now becoming just an object of desire that can be bought.

• Ben is a human trafficker. He sends women into slavery while promising them a life of luxury and happiness. That's why he shows off his idyllic lifestyle, and then sells them in Africa (where he goes frequently), where they'll never be found.

• Ben is a life guru. He teaches unsecure and frustrated women to feel liberated and less oppressed, to leave it all behind and start from scratch. They pay him, that's why he's rich. He also keeps a "souvenir" of every woman he has turned. This could explain why he shows up to the meeting with Jongsu in the finale. If he actually killed or sold these women he wouldn't fall into the other man's trick.

• Ben doesn't exist. He's just the symbol of everything Jongsu is not but aspires to be. He's rich, confident, cultured and attractive. Every flaw and layer of insecurity Jongsu seems to have, Ben lacks. And in the end, when the protagonist finally becomes brave enough to mature, to actually chase the woman he loves, he's able to kill the shadow of himself that only reminded him of how miserable he was.

• Ben and Jongsu are the same person. Much Fight Club like, they're the same human being, just different, extreme sides of one. Jongsu could have a personality disorder or maybe we're just shown two sides of him that prove his mental health issues. That's also why Haemi seems to be involved with both of them without choosing a side, because one is the gentle but insecure fraction, the other the bold but arrogant one. And then, in the end, when such division is making him go insane, he decides to kill his alter ego.

• It's just a love triangle. One of my favorite songs of all time had a similar topic. There's the main character, a shy and quiet boy, who falls in love with a girl who feels foreign and unreachable to him. But he's not the only one in her life. She also has another lover who's much more attractive and manly in a way, and all three start to share this peculiar poliamorous love story, mostly platonic. She's very pretty and feels as free as Venus, torn between two men. Then one day she leaves, and she'll never come back. But while the second boy easily moves on with his life, figuring out it was just a näive fling, the singer remains stuck, obsessing over her day and night, trying to find answers and solutions just not to deal with the realization of her not loving him enough to stay.

• Every character represents a social stereotypes and criticism of modern South Korean classes. I think this is very straightforward, especially Jongsu's jealousy of Ben's wealth, and Haemi's attempt to RISE in the social pyramid, surrounding herself with high class people like Ben or his friends, even letting them make joke of her, to mock her, all of it just to feel part of their group and reality.

• It's all in Jongsu's head.

• The disappearance of Haemi, whether it happened or not or HOW it happened are not the main focus on the movie, which instead is the characters dealing with such loss and lack of knowledge on what happened. Much like the Russian movie Loveless (2017), where the event is only used as an artistical device to let the story progress and the characters' grief culminate. Maybe we really don't need to know what happened to her, maybe she's dead, maybe she's alive and better than ever, but to the movie's intent such information is superficial, it's just the human need to fill our curiosity when were too afraid to deal with the pain of remaining unaware of it. Jongsu is sure she's been killed and that brings him to his next move, but the viewer, he doesn't need to know, because he doesn't need to act, to keep the story going.

• Haemi might have killed herself. Ben is the only one who knows about this and that's why she gives him her cat. She also shows multiple signs of advanced depression, for more than half of the movie is almost like she's not there, like she's already just the memory, the ghost of a girl who once was there.

• The movie itself is just a metaphor. The metaphor is many times used by the characters and maybe not only as a word, part of a dialogue, but the overall film might be A BIG, CRIPTIC METAPHOR.

• Everything is hereditary. From family's fortunes and richness to behavior and inner rage. Jongsu was born poor and will die as such just like his father, and even though he seems like the most innocuous being, he's able to take out his rage on other just like this father. I guess it's in the genes.

• Jongsu is the calf. The calf represents Jongsu's pureness and naivety. And when he sells it, he's also selling his soul in a way.

• Haemi represents South Korea, Jongsu North Korea, Ben is the new Korea, the one always more and more Westernized.

• We're just reading the plot of Jongsu's book. When Haemi leaves for Africa he has plenty of time to write the story he's planning to put into words, and that's what he does. Everything we see after she comes back from her journey is just the plot of the book, and the creation of Jongsu's imagination.

• A modern reinterpretation of the Great Gatsby. Yes, obviously a VERY liberate view of the novel, but many details seem to be quite evocative.

• A criticism to how South Korea treats women. Even the movie itself does this, probably on purpose. The one who disappears is a woman, but the ones who are the main centre of attention are men. She's only a story device, never the real protagonist.

• Ben wanted Jongsu to discover his crimes so he could reach fame if the other ever made a book out of it. He's so full of himself he'd rather be punished for his crimes than never showing off how good he was at covering every proof. That's why he dies almost peacefully, and shed a tear, which he claimed to have never done before.

• The well Haemi reference to, symbolizes falling into prostitution. That's why Jongsu's mother knows about it too, since it's quite obvious she's now an escort. But she states the well is dry, as a way of saying that it's not how easy and fun it might seem.

• This is just the tragic story of a boy who's lost every possible source of love. From his father in jail, his mother who abandoned him, to the only girl that ever showed him affection disappearing, and a new friend who he decides to kill.

• Ben is Death or maybe the devil personified. He helps Haemi get the courage to end it one for all, and even pushes Jongsu to kill, cursing his soul.

[dayseternal-blog]

Hi, I love your blog! ❤️

Could you maybe tell us how it felt when you went to Japan for the first time (or for the first time as being fully aware of the significance of the trip)?

Were you speaking Japanese there or solely English? Did they assumed you were born there upon meeting you for the first time, or were you identified as a foreigner (not intending to be rude or anything, I just watched some videos on the subject and I'm being curious 🦝)?

This is pretty personal.  I’ll share with you my experiences with “back to the Motherland!”

The first time, my family went to go visit my older sister, who was studying abroad.  I was in high school....I couldn’t speak or read any Japanese.  In terms of significance...hmmmmm, I’ll elaborate on that at the end....I was excited to be going to Japan, but it was probably the same excitement as like, going to Disneyland.

I’ve always felt like a foreigner in Japan, ever since the first time.  It was weird to see people who all looked the same.  I never really felt like I looked like them, not even my hair or skin color.  I looked at everyone else and saw them as different from me.  My fashion choices, especially, my social faux-pas, and of course my tongue, always (seemed to me) to blare me as a foreigner.

But Japanese people can’t tell the difference.  I was really shocked by that.

When I studied abroad in Kyoto, an old couple on the street asked me for directions to a store once (I could help them because I passed it every week).  Two reporters mistook me for a Japanese student.  Old men on the street or in the train would look at me or try talking to me.  Even the other Japanese uni students were surprised to find out I was foreign, and they told me they thought I was Japanese.  I’ll always remember how, on the first day of the program when we had to introduce ourselves to all the students, the Japanese students whispered A LOT about me after my introduction because they were THAT surprised to find out.  I was the one who was surprised.  I was surprised that they were surprised!

Well, the most assumptive thing that happened was my assigned language partner (a Japanese boy) who, messaging me for the first time, said he hoped that I would “find myself” in Japan and learn about being Japanese.  (as if I didn’t feel comfortable in my identity?  as if I needed to learn what “Japanese” is?).  I think he was just trying to be nice, but that was so weird to me.  I don’t remember how I replied, or if I replied at all to his message.  Needless to say, as I got to know him, I didn’t like his attitude for various other reasons.  I also thought it was weird how my host mom complimented me on how I hold chopsticks.  I’m sure she was also just being nice, but I felt some type of way about it.  (as if she thought I wouldn’t know how to properly use them? as if my family was incapable of teaching me properly?)

Throughout my study abroad, I felt a little like when I was on the Mainland.  Constantly seeing yourself through someone else’s eyes, in terms of the people who knew or figured out I was foreign.  What do they think of me, a Nikkei, coming to study in Japan?  Do they think I’m trying to be “more Japanese?”  Do they see me as “less Japanese?”  Do they think it’s weird I look like them but can’t speak?  Is it more embarrassing and less forgivable when I make a mistake?  Do they think I’m Chinese or Korean?? (btw that’s an insult because a lot of Japanese people are just that racist).  Why does my being here need to be any more meaningful than another foreign exchange student’s?  I was pretty much there for the funsies and language practice, just like any other student, and it bothered me to think that people might be measuring my distance away from my heritage, as if I’m not exactly as how I should be.

Or for the other foreign students in my classes.  They wished people would automatically see them as Japanese, too, so that they weren’t treated like foreigners.  ???  OK, but what if I want a handicap given to me when people talk to me...am I being ungrateful or something.

Of course, not everyone made me feel like I had to watch myself.  I grew to feel very comfortable at a Japanese church I attended while I studied abroad, and a few Japanese students were very friendly and nice to me.

My experience is colored by the fact that my home is Hawaii, where poc outnumber white people.  Going to Japan is definitely amazing and lucky, but...it’s value for me is not the same as a Nikkei who lives in literally a white-dominant society.  I already look around and see people who look and talk the same as me.  I see my culture reflected across the island.  I just exist without thinking about my race.  I don’t experience racism here, and I know what it’s like after going to college on the Mainland😰.  I’m exactly where I want to be.

Traveling to Japan is like, pretty much, just...  Cheaper Japanese food.  Onsen.  Shopping.  Sight-seeing.  Just immersing myself in MORE and it’s SO FUN.  That’s the sum of “significance” to me in the Motherland.  It’s so fun to enjoy my culture in full-blown magnification, and that’s significant to me.

[najoah]

First Chance [Chapter 6]

Eyebrows furrowing in confusion, I moved the cursor around the monitor. My eyes glanced at the time. 12 minutes before class and I still can't figure out how to print my assignment. The dormitory's printing shop was filled with student, and the owner was too busy to attend to me.

Looking out the window in defeat, a familiar figure walks into view. With his khaki backpack in one hand, and a kimbap in the other, Kyu became the answer to my prayers. I knocked on the window to catch his attention. "Help," I mouthed when he turned to face me.

He snickered as he slung his backpack on his left shoulder and walked into the store.

Casually placing the kimbab in the pocket of his cardigan, Kyu reached out to pat my head – a habit he has taken up on every time we meet. "How can I be of service, my lady?"

Grabbing his sleeve, I pulled him over to the screen. "I might be dumb, but I can't figure out how to print this out."

He leaned in for a closer look. "Well, the computer is in Korean so you're not exactly dumb." His hand reached out for the mouse, and I watched closely - memorizing the step he took for my future references. Not a second later, the printer made a sound - signaling that the job has been done.

"Thank you, you life saver!" I held the paper to my chest, relieved. "I was really about to cry there."

"Small thing. Also," he said, pointing to a little sheet taped on the wall behind the computer, "there's an instruction here in English."

I looked to where he was pointing, and sure enough, there it was. Embarrassed, I hit my head with the palm of my hand. "Okay, I really am dumb. I totally did not see that."

"Of course, you didn't," he said with a hint of sarcasm. He took a quick glance at his phone, "Are you going to East Civ? We have to run if we want to make it."

I looked at my watch. "Shit, you're right."

Kyu strapped on his backpack on both shoulders before holding out his hand to me, "Shall we run, my lady?"

The thought of running across campus filled with me dread. The chance of tripping to my death while walking is already higher than the average human. Plus, the thought of sweat dripping on the side of my face... I shuddered. "I'm sorry, but I don't run."

His hand fell back to his side, his face bemused.

"Let's just take our time," I continued, "We're going to be late either way so let's make the most of it."

He smirked. Wrapping his arm around my shoulder, he said, "Okay, let's take our own sweet time."

Fifteen minutes later, Kyu and I stood in front of the auditorium's door. Eastern Civilization was a mandatory class for all freshman student and is the only class held here. While the auditorium had three different points of entrance, there was only one that is accessible to students. The main door, situated at the back of class. The one that creaks obnoxiously at the slightest touch.

Ah, taking our sweet time was the wrong move.

Kyu and I looked at the door, and then to each other, and back to the door. "In three..." His hand was on the handle, "two, one."

The door creaked open and all six hundred freshman students on campus turned their head around. Professor Choi's lecture halted as he looked to us. Shocked by the attention, I felt my whole body heating up.

"Sorry, sorry," Kyu apologized, bowing to the professor. I did the same before we both made our way to our assigned seat. I was lucky – my seat was on the second last row but Kyu had to make all the way down the hall to his seat with all eyes on him.

Professor Choi cleared his throat, and turned everyone's attention back to lecture. Nestled on my chair, I pressed my lips together in embarrassment.

Nia, seated next to me, placed a small note on my table. I allowed myself a few minutes to calm down before prying the note open.

What a fucking entrance!

I crumpled the note in my hand and shoot her the middle finger. She laughed inaudibly and shifted her attention back to the lecture.

I pulled out my notebook from my backpack, body still warm from our grand entrance. On the new page, I wrote down two words that has become the fabric of my existence: Baek Hyunkyu.

Forty-five minutes of Gandhi and dozens of stifled yawns later, Professor Choi called for the ten-minute break we were all waiting for. I leaned against the chair as my classmates all stood, stretched and made their way out of the class for a breath of fresh air. Any other day, Nia and I would made our way to the vending machine on the second floor but still reeling from humiliation, I wanted nothing more than to stay within the walls of this great big hall.

Despite my eyes closed, Nia's penetrating gaze was burning a hole on my skin. "What do you want?"

"You can't come in like that and not tell me what happened," she whined. "You can't leave me hanging. I've been dying since the moment you walked in with lights beaming behind the both of you. It's a fucking k-drama and I need some context!"

"Shhh!!" I placed my finger on his lip. "Well, you have to wait. I can't say anything with 600 people around."

"Say what?" The deep, and warm voice I knew so well interrupted our chats. "You wanted to know why we were so late?"

We both turned to Kyu, who had made himself comfortable on the seat behind us. With a cup of canned coffee on his hand, he looked back at me with a smirk – sending butterflies to my stomach.

"Hi, Kyu," I greeted, tone flat.

Pulling out the same canned coffee from his cardigan, he smiled back. "Hi, there." Kyu placed the canned drink on top of my head. "This is for you."

I reached for the drink, confused. "Thanks. But what's this for?"

"I'm not sure," he sighed. "Maybe to help you get through the last few strands of mortification that you seem to be tangled by?"

My cheeks grew warm. "We should have just ran over."

"We really should have, " he agreed, his voice teasing. "But someone insisted to take their own sweet time." Then he did something – something that played in my mind whenever I think of him. He winked.

Nia, who was enjoying the K-drama scene unfolding before her, cleared her throat. "Okay, what the hell happened between you guys?"

I pressed my lips together, letting the question hang in the air. Nia could have gotten the answer from me, but I wanted to see what the boy with the smile had to say. In other circumstances, what happened earlier was nothing worth noting. Nia had the right to be curious about Kyu and I coming in together – we hardly acknowledge each other's presence in public despite how close I think we were. Conversations we shared about our hopes and dreams were privately shared over texts. But face to face, we were acquaintances. I revealed so much of me that it leaves me overly conscious of his gaze every time we meet. All I knew was that I had fallen for this boy from the conversations we shared, but I could never tell what he thought of me.

Kyu leaned in, his face now inches from mine. "Ahna rejected me," he whispered, his eyes piercing into mine. For a brief moment, the world stopped. I was swimming in his dark eyes, looking for the answer to the question that keeps me up all night. For a moment, I saw a glimpse of hope, of a future. But the clock moved again when he stood to his feet, leaving me without an answer. "Class is starting." He took a step back smiling at me, before turning his back and walking away.

Nia gasped, "Oh my God."

[forkanna]

WARNING: I did tell you that Rise and Ai will have some views on gender and sexuality that I don't agree with. Well here they come in the next few chapters. Please take everything my characters say with a grain of salt; these are simply very realistic reactions and opinions, even if less than ideal.

[AO3] [WATTPAD]

-----------------------------------------------------

Why could she suddenly hear "Purity" playing in the background again?

"You… huh?" Rise finally managed. She had no idea how long it had taken her to say that much, even though it was practically nothing and she had already said that.

"Maybe… ugh. Now I'm embarrassed."

"What- now you're embarrassed?"

"Yes! Because clearly, it did something for me and it didn't do anything for you, so I'm all alone in caring about this, and I feel so stupid!"

Frantically waving her hands, Rise scooted a little closer as she hissed, "Wait, wait, slow down for a sec! I never said it didn't mean anything to me!"

"You did!" she sniffled, trying to recover from her emotional outburst.

"No, I said it wasn't the end of the world, and it's not that big a deal! But I… I'm not going to pretend I didn't feel anything at all. I did. You just seemed really upset about it, so I was… trying to let you know everything's okay."

Ai was glancing over at her occasionally now, clearly unsure of what she should do. Her mouth opened and closed a few times indecisively. "Ugh. I'm ridiculous. This is ridiculous, I don't know why we can't just be normal friends. What is wrong with me?"

"Um… can I ask you a question?"

"Might as well."

"Is this… Class S yuri, or… did you really…?"

They both looked at each other in shock for a moment. Rise was positive that they both were feeling the same thing, as well: the same sensation one gets standing at the edge of a deep precipice, fighting down vertigo and the unhealthy urge to throw oneself down. She couldn't help tracing the contours of Ai's stunningly beautiful face with her eyes, her proud chin and soft lips…

"O-of course it's just a Class S phase. I've never had a close friend, and everything got mixed up. It's probably similar for you, so we just… we have to work on not getting carried away. Right?"

"R-right! Yes, I…" Rise tried to get ahold of herself. This was too silly; they barely knew each other, all things considered. Brand new friends, fresh out of the shrinkwrap. So what was the use in going so crazy about them misreading signals and sending the wrong ones? They could sort this out.

"Great! Glad we settled that." Ai cleared her throat. "And I'm sorry for trying to blame you for everything."

"Oh, it's okay, we were both a little… y-yeah." Rise chanced a nervous giggle. "Sorry I smacked you."

"Hey, it's not like I didn't deserve it. You were right. Do… you want to…?"

When she didn't finish the thought, Rise prompted, "What?"

"Aiya? We, um, could stop by Aiya for a couple of beef bowls. O-or something." She grimaced. "I already feel like we wasted enough time fighting because I'm an oversensitive asshole."

Rise smiled and moved close enough to put her arm around her. "You're fine. And look; we're fine, too. Nobody's dying!"

"Yeah," Ai laughed very quietly. Rise could swear her cheeks were rosier, but that could easily have been from all the crying.

"I would love to go with you to Aiya. Like, we're friends! We should totally start hanging out like normal friends and stuff. Like, you could even come with me if I'm meeting up with Yuki-chan or Naoto-kun sometime."

For whatever reason, that made Ai stop smiling. But she cleared her throat and shook her head hard. "No. It's fine."

"Oh. Sorry, I didn't mean to… offend, I ju-"

"Wait, wait. I meant… it's fine for you to ask me. I should hang out with other friends besides just you. This is normal. I was… kind of…"

Why did she look so embarrassed? "Go ahead."

"I was talking to myself. Stupid. Trying to reassure myself that normal people hang out in large groups, and it's not you trying to ditch me. I'm sorry."

"Awwww, no need to be sorry." She cuddled her closer, and felt Ai stiffen briefly before letting out a sigh. She could hear it, her ear was so close… "We'll figure this crap out, buddy!"

"Buddy," she snorted. "Don't go too crazy, Risette."

"And you're not a fan." They both laughed and they embraced — really, truly embraced this time, no holding back, no letting the awkwardness hold them back. And it was good. Rise still felt her heart beating a little faster, but that was definitely the kind of thing that could be ignored. And she would — until such time as it went away. Even if it didn't, she could take it; she was tougher than she looked.

"Okay, let's go before I get grosser," Ai half-laughed, half-hiccuped as she drew back. Rise could see she had been crying again — and was already trying to wipe the tears away before she realised what she was doing. "Wh-what?"

"Just… trying to help." She pulled back and got a handkerchief out of her bag instead, handing it to her. "Sorry. Here, this is probably better."

Nodding, she started dabbing at her eyes with one hand while the other fished out her compact. The sound of lamentation as she saw her mascara was loud, but she still just nodded and put the compact away. "Well, I did promise myself I'm going to be less vain. Let's go to Aiya."

"You got it! And it's on me!"

"Wha- no way, I will fight you for that check!"

"BRING IT!"

                                                    ~ o ~

Everything was fine. Rise had been a little worried about how the evening would turn out, given how anxious they both were after their odd brush with lesbianism. No such issues. They were still just getting to know each other, and what better way to do that than over a steaming bowl of rice and beef?

Ai was a pretty interesting girl. She really didn't seem the type to like daifuku — Rise liked them, too, the sticky red bean paste and rice dough was so much fun to chew. But they were so very traditional, and Ai was a thoroughly modern girl who revelled in trends. Between that, her love of Korean dramas and old city pop, retro games, and hatred of aromatherapy, it was interesting how much they had in common even though a few things they definitely didn't. She loved uncovering this more well-rounded picture of the girl she wanted in her life more and more.

The week wore on, and Rise tried to track Ai down whenever she could to help cement their growing bond. They even hung out with the others a few times, and though Kanji and Yosuke kept getting nervous when she would snap at them for making some off-colour comment, generally everything went well. And by much the same token, Rise hung out with Ai's friends — or what passed for them. Kou and Daisuke had seemingly decided to give her another chance as manager. Yu had told her before that she basically just sat in the corner doing her nails, but she was doing much better at actually engaging with the team, by all accounts.

Thursday was different. Ai was gone again, and didn't respond to texts. Eventually, she did get a message back in the evening…

EBI: Sorry I just needed a day

RISE: What's wrong? RISE: Anything I can do? ;-;

EBI: No I'm…

RISE: Ai-chan?

EBI: Listen it's really dumb but my mom called. EBI: And I just needed a little time to get out of my head

RISE: Oh you ditched again? RISE: You're going to get in trouble you know…

EBI: Listen I know you're going to lecture me but just save it EBI: Oh too late you sent yours before I could send mine

RISE: I'm sorry, I just don't want you to fail and get held back

EBI: Yeah I know. EBI: Thanks. :heart:

RISE: You could have told me and I'd ditch with you

EBI: What? No. I wouldn't want you to miss class because of me

RISE: Are you ditching tomorrow?

EBI: …probably

RISE: Where are we going?

EBI: Come on I told you that's not necessary. This is my damage and my weird thing and I have to face it EBI: And sometimes I need to be alone.

RISE: OKAYYYY okay

EBI: Fine. I'm probably going into Shinjuku this time

RISE: I'm really sorry for pushing RISE: Wait what? RISE: ALL THE WAY TO SHINJUKU?!

EBI: Hey I said I needed space and Okina isn't cutting it EBI: And I promise I'll be fine

RISE: ...when and where? Straight to Yasoinaba Station?

EBI: Rise… EBI: Alright I guess I can't stop you

RISE: Really?

EBI: Pain in the ass EBI: Yeah fine… 8AM don't be late or I'll leave without you.

RISE: YAAAAAAAAAAY~ RISE: We're gonna have the best time just you wait!

EBI: Uh huh EBI: Lol you're amazing.

RISE: Huh? Why?

EBI: Nevermind EBI: See you tomorrow.

RISE: Can't wait Ebi-chaaaaaaaaaaan~

EBI: UGH

And that was that. The pop star curled up in her bed with her big plush Jack Frost, grinning into the stuffing as she contemplated what the next day could bring.

                                                    ~ o ~

"What the hell are you wearing?"

"SHH!" Rise hissed at her as she strolled up to Ai on the train platform. "I'm incognito!"

"Uh huh. Can you take those big sunglasses off? It makes you look like a cartoon character."

Rise pouted as she pulled her shades off. At least most of her hair was still stuffed up into an oversized cap; no trademark pigtails to tip off Shinjuku residents that a famous idol had gone truant for the day. "Don't make fun of me. I'm not used to skipping."

"Weak. But I guess it still looks okay, it's just very… Parisian?"

"Whatever. You look cute, though."

"Oh, this?" Ai said airily, swishing out her long bohemian skirt around her heeled boots. Also seemingly suited to colder weather, but her top was a light blue babydoll tee; somehow she pulled it off, even though it was so much less ornate. Her bag was also a little simpler than usual. "I just rolled out of bed and was this fabulous."

"Right," she giggled, bumping her with her hip. The formerly-grumpy girl finally cracked a smile. "This is cute, but you usually have super pricey Prada or Anello or whatever."

"Hm? Yeah, I like this kind of bag. It is Anello — well, Legato Largo. It's more functional."

"Totally." The train pulled in just then, and Rise stepped forward to board once the doors opened, following Ai's lead. "Where are we off to?"

"Shinjuku."

"Well, I know that," she laughed. "But I mean, did you have anything in particular in mind? I mean, it's kind of… a rough neighbourhood, a little."

"Not if you stay out of Kabukicho. And we will," she reassured Rise with a raised hand. "Believe me, I'm even less interested in being jumped than you are."

"Why do you think I'm 'interested' in being jumped?!"

Ai snorted as she held onto a strap and the train took off. "I didn't say you were! Just… because I'm- nevermind, I just meant I don't have a death wish."

It didn't take them long to get to the bustling streets of Tokyo, and switch train lines to run up to Shinjuku. The same way Rise had been relieved to get to Okina, she was even more full of life now that they were really in a thriving metropolis again. So many sights and sounds! Grinning, she turned and grabbed Ai's hands, dragging her forward.

"H-hey, slow down!"

"You're the one that wanted to come here!" she giggled. "So why so slow?"

"Okay, okay, GOD." Taking a deep breath, she brushed down the front of her clothes needlessly, even though they had barely been rumpled, if at all. "Wherever you want. But I do want to stop in somewhere eventually."

"Where?" No response. So instead of dwelling, Rise just sang out, "Okaaay, then let's goooo!"

                                                    ~ o ~

The day was everything she had secretly been hoping for. They dipped in and out of lots of shops, buying one or two things but mostly browsing. Took advantage of the big city to grab foods that weren't readily available in a small town like Inaba. Stopped to speak to some of the more colourful inhabitants. Rise knew vaguely that a lot of gay men hung out there, but she didn't expect to see so many in flamboyant colours, openly acting so, so… feminine. It was both bizarre and exciting. Were there really this many people in the world who bucked societal norms so openly?

All along the way, Ai was becoming more and more comfortable with her. She still sniped and snarked but there was a playfulness to it that surpassed her previous efforts. They further eroded their anxieties about the accidental lip-lock and started to hold hands and pull each other over to see something instead of being horribly shy all the while. Progress was progress.

Finally, a little after they had enjoyed steaming bowls of udon for lunch, Ai dragged her down an alley unexpectedly. Rise asked if this was where she was finally going to get them "jumped", but Ai only laughed that off.

"No, but seriously, where are we going?"

"You'll see… okay… here."

"'Crossroads'? Okay, cool. Is it a karaoke bar?"

"Not… quite. But I promise we won't be long."

The interior was dimly lit, and everything seemed tinted red. There was a sort of warm atmosphere, combined with a raciness because of the low mood lighting. Rise was fascinated; she had been to a few more upscale places because of her work, and some of the venues she had performed at had bars inside, but this was the first standalone public house she had entered. Mostly because she was a couple of years too young to really be doing that…

"Hey, sugar. You lose your way?"

While Rise was still goggling at how deep the voice was that had come out of the kimono-clad woman behind the bar, Ai was smiling and turning fully in her direction, hands clasped so politely in front of her. "Not yet. But you did help me find it once."

The woman squinted for a moment, then gasped and pressed a hand to her chest. "Little Ebi-chan? Is that you?!"

Rise half-expected them to run together like in a movie and embrace, but they didn't; Ai just smiled wider and plopped herself down on one of the bar stools. "It's me, Ai. In the flesh."

"Whooo! I see that, wow. Well heck, you got no business in here; you're no performer."

"No, definitely not," she admitted with a laugh. "And you helped me see that, Escargot-san."

"PFFFFF," she scoffed very loudly, waving one of those meaty hands. Rise couldn't help thinking that this bar definitely didn't need a bouncer because the hostess herself was so strong-looking! "You'll call me Lala or you'll get outta here. Now, I'm pretty sure I'm not gonna serve you two a drop, since your little friend there doesn't look any older than you. Want a lime-and-tonic?"

"Sure. One for both of us."

"Oh! I…" Rise cleared her throat. "Can I have a cherry, if you don't mind?"

"Sweetie, for you? Two cherries." Rise giggled a little, pleased at the concession. While she made the drinks, she asked, "What brings you back to the neighbourhood? Haven't seen you for a couple of years."

"Oh, I heard from Mother again." Even while Lala was sighing, she passed over Ai's drink, and she stared down into its sparkling depths. "Had to get out of my head. I tried bumming around Okina yesterday, but it's just too…"

"It's the sticks, honey. Of course that's not gonna be enough of a distraction. You need flashing lights, dancing, drinking- well… not drinking," she said firmly, pointing at her. "And I'd better not hear you started trying to sneak booze at any of the other places around here, neither. Everybody knows everybody in this neighb-"

"Okay, okay, wow," Ai cackled before taking a sip. "Mm. I promise not to try to scam drinks from other bartenders."

Lana nodded firmly, satisfied for the time being. Then she turned to Rise. "What's your story, sugar? In the same club as your gal pal?"

"Huh? Oh, I… no, I haven't joined her club; they already have a manager."

For some reason, Ai looked worried about this. Why? They both knew for certain that she had no interest in the basketball club — even just being their manager like Ai was. But her answer seemed to satisfy. "Really? Well hell, that's quite a performance you're putting on, queen! All that contouring, and those are fabulous!"

She had gestured to her chest. While Rise was blushing and looking down, Ai cleared her throat and hastily said, "N-no, Lala, she… don't you know her? This is Risette! You've probably, um, probably seen her v-videos, or heard her songs?"

"Oh, it's Risette, is it?" Lala chuckled, waggling her fingers like she were casting a magic spell or sprinkling glitter. "I used to have a thing for Cher — don't even say it, I know, I know. Walking cliché. But I'm sure you can guess how well that went over; I gave that up eventually, settled on this." She fluffed her violet-hued hair… which shifted. A wig?

"No, I mean she's really Risette. Rise Kujikawa? Like, we're going to school together." Nothing. "The Quelorie Magic ads?"

Now Lala was blinking and looking at her again. "Hmm, really? The hair's not right." Hoping to help clear this up and move things along, Rise took her cap off, letting her pigtails fall. They were messier, but she was still more comfortable with them that way than with her hair down. "Ahhh, there it is! Well I'll be- you two ain't kidding, are ya? This would be a pretty weird prank if you were."

"Nope, it's me," Rise laughed awkwardly. Still a little thrown off by some of their word choices — what contouring? What performance, and why were her boobs being complimented?!

"And no, we're not in the same clubs. In fact, I don't think she knows much about my club at all."

The way those words were emphasised threw Rise off even more. Conversely, Lala's eyebrows shot up, and she looked between them for a moment… before gasping. "OH! Ohhhh, well then, that's fine. Just found a famous friend when you moved to the boonies!"

"Y-yeah," she finally sighed in relief. If Rise didn't know any better, she would swear her friend was sweating now; maybe that shine on her temples was just a trick of the light. "It's pretty wild; I mean, she grew up there, but I don't think anybody expected her to go back after she made it big."

"Nope," Rise said distantly.

"Sorry," she whispered. "I, um… I probably shouldn't tell your whole life story."

"It's fine! So, um, Lala, you have a wonderful bar here. Crazy good atmosphere!"

The bartender was still smiling at her and chuckling as one of the curtains rustled that led to the restrooms, Rise assumed. She barely glanced over. "Well, thank you much. Real lovely soul for an idol; they usually end up kinda bitter." Then she did turn to the side properly. "Hey, you'd better stop stinking up my back room, gaijin."

"Whaaaaat?" called out the lively redhead in the yellow dress. Not that her bobbed hair could possibly have been that vivid shade of crimson naturally — though she was an American, so it was entirely possible. Rise had a hard time telling Westerners apart, but there was no way someone that gaudy couldn't be from the States. "Come on, Lala-san! I have to get on my perfume, where else will I?"

Her Japanese was just quirky enough, both in terms of word usage and her bizarre accent, that the others laughed. "You're a riot, sweetie. But congrats, I guess you're part of Ai's club for real now."

"YES!" The woman saluted, other hand on her hip. Then she laughed. "What club is that? The Love Club?"

"Close enough. Erica, this is… Ai-chan?" Ai nodded. That was funny; Rise could have sworn they were old friends of some kind, and she forgot her name? "Ai, this is Erica… An… Andeshi…"

"Anderson," she provided in her normal accent. "Boy, it's weird using English again after all that time Nihongo-ing!"

"Uhhhh, right," Ai laughed, clearly having no idea what she was hearing.

"Hey! I'm Risette, and I want to be the star of your heart!"

That single line made the woman's huge brown eyes shoot even wider. "Whoooaaaa! Holy Schnikes, your English is really good, like you sound like a Yankee and shit!"

Stammering, she managed, "Sorry! I do not… understand…" Then she switched back to her native tongue and hissed, "I just learned that part for a show and like, a handful of other phrases; I'm really sorry."

"Ohhhh, it's okay," she laughed with a huge grin. Something about this woman instantly set Rise at ease; like she was almost as used to doing that as Rise herself. "Why did you learn that?"

"You missed it, honey," Lala laughed. "Risette here's a big idol. And yes, I have seen you strutting your stuff on the news; you're killing it, girl."

"Oh, thanks," she laughed, having already forgotten about that thread of conversation. "But yeah, that was one of the phrases I had to learn for my New York City concert — even though that's the only one I performed overseas. I also learned, 'Everybody having fun tonight?' and 'I love you all!' and a few more."

Erica laughed and applauded, as if she were performing a particularly impressive trick. "Amazing! You might know only a small English but you sound very good!" As the others chuckled again, she turned back to Ai. "So what did she mean? Lala-chan. You and me in the Love Club."

"O-oh, um…" She glanced at Rise, who arched her eyebrows at her. "Ugh. Come on, I'll tell you back here."

While Rise blinked, Ai led the redhead over to a booth in the corner. They were both roughly the same height, though Erica was taller by a hair. Figuring there wasn't much point in watching them whisper to each other, she turned back to smile at the host of the bar.

"Ai-chan didn't tell you why she brought you here, did she?"

"Nope," Rise offered lightly as she tugged one of the cherries out of her glass. "Just that she wanted me to see this place. Maybe you were some kind of tutor? Helped her pass some class? I don't know."

Lala laughed heartily as she wiped down the bar. "Close enough. You know, I'm honestly kind of relieved."

"Huh?"

"Back when I knew this little squirt, she didn't know which way was up. And I could tell she was heading for a fall; she lucked out with her parents, but she was going to throw herself so hard into her new life that she would forget who she was. But it looks like that straightened out eventually."

"Uh… huh," she said dubiously, turning to look at Ebihara again. Now those two were hugging tightly. She would hug some complete stranger and not her? Though the longer she looked…

Erica's expression was taut and pained. It looked like a couple of things they had talked about were less than fun.

"You've got a pretty special friend, Risette. Just go easy on her."

"I will, Escargot-san," she said right away, turning back so she could bow properly.

"Woweeee, everybody's so formal today," she chuckled as she turned to head into the back. But just then, footsteps approached, so she paused in her action to wait and see what happened.

"…and don't you be worried," Erica was saying, her arm around Ai's shoulders. "I wish I could stay and help but I have to go back to Chicago. And I promise, it will get better. Look at me, over thirty years, and I am very happy! And strong, like a wrestler! And beautiful!"

"And humble," Ai laughed, and the others laughed with her. Then she reached up to rest a hand on Erica's upper arm. "But seriously, I could never thank you enough. It's so… nice knowing I'm not alone. Even if I would have to move to the USA to be less alone in a literal sense."

"Oh, you're alone. I'm in a class all by myself — Boss always says this. He even loves my feet because I am so special." When the others exchanged curious glances, she cleared her throat and said, "No! I mean, he takes care of them, with nice shoes! Sneakers?"

"Ohhhhh," Rise said, laughing a little too much to try to hide her confusion and discomfort. She felt like Yukiko. "I was about to say, that seems a little over the line if he's your boss!"

"Yes! Though I am sure he would love them if I gave him a chance. Look!" She slammed her leg up on the bar, and Lala was already rolling her eyes in mild exasperation. "See? Beautiful!"

While Rise was politely examining the pedicure shown off by Erica's strappy sandals, she caught sight of Ai out of the corner of her eye — and noticed she was blushing hard. So either she was a candidate to love Erica's feet instead of this Boss character, or she was being powerfully reminded of something embarrassing. Rise tried to recall a hazy memory, some story about Yukiko and Chie… she only wished she could remember what it was.

                                                    To Be Continued…

[apotatomashedbybts]

The Stains Of Your Love

[GENRE: angst, fluff, mature

Pairing: Jimin×reader, Jungkook×reader

Word Count: 4.3k+]

[Summary: Love is not always what it seems to be. What if you get hurt by the person you love the most? Will you flee away? But how far will you run until love finds you again? ]

Part IV: Healed and Beyond

"Oh thank you aunty!" Jungkook smiled at your mom as she served another serving of mixed seafood stew in his bowl.

One day while talking he unintentionally mentioned about him missing his home and his mom's cooking. So the next Sunday you decided to invite him over to your home and cook for him. Living in Korea for so long had made you almost an expert in Korean cuisine and you didn't want that to go to a waste. Though you cooked all the dishes in this sumptuous feast for Jungkook you didn't tell him about it. Instead you insisted your mom on lying that she made this all for him.

Seeing Jungkook's happy face made your heart fill with content. Another year had passed after the day he revealed his feelings for you but you still weren't sure. Your love for him had grew gradually in all these days spent with him but you wanted something to happen so that you can be positive and cent percent sure. The worm of doubt still ate your heart because you trusted Jimin too and he loved you too but now you were not sure whether he pretended to or not.

You looked at Jungkook with a soft smile as he ate merrily. Suddenly he looked at your way and asked 'what' by moving his head upwards and you signalled back 'nothing' by shaking your head slightly and went to the kitchen to bring the dessert. You two had a very subtle way of expressing that you care for each other and you never made it too obvious though you both understood. You both were comfortable with this and you were grateful to Jungkook for being the gentleman and not forcing you into anything.

After that day of you receiving the call from Director Jung you asked Ga-yeon to take informations from your friends there back in Korea and also not to tell anything about you. In reply Ga-yeon smacked the back of your head and said, "Of course I won't! What do you take me for? Dumbhead!"

You knew that she won't but you still requested her. The last thing you wanted was to get into a connection with your past. After two days Ga-yeon collected informations which made you sad. Jimin wasn't doing well. He looked as if he hadn't slept for awhile. He had even started wearing glasses. Ga-yeon couldn't get the inner details except that he was still in a relationship with Yujin. You understood that Yujin wasn't taking care of him and Jimin wasn't paying attention to himself either. The eye drops might be expired sitting in the shelf. Jimin never liked wearing glasses instead he wore lenses and that's why doctor told him to take the eye drops. You didn't know what to do. You wanted to run to Jimin then and there but something stopped you. You looked back and saw Jungkook, your parents, Ga-yeon, the happiness and love that you received here and the wounds made in your heart by Jimin. All those things stopped you and you told your heart that there are too many people's love that you can't ignore because of someone who only cared in the time of need. So you stayed back and hoped for Jimin to understand his fault and get out of the mess that he had made and get someone who would love him just like you did or may be more...

"Thank you." Jungkook said after you you went out to see him off. You were clearly confused and asked about the reason. He smiled mildly and said, "I know that all those dishes were made by you."

"H-how?" You were shocked.

He sighed leaning slightly on his car and looking up at the sky he replied, "Your mother never went to South Korea instead you were the one who stayed there for so long. And also I noticed your mother's guilty expression and the stain of the stew on your sleeves. After all I am a photographer. Small details can't pass by in front of my eyes unnoticed." He looked at you and smiled broadly.

You looked down and stuttered, "I thought that it would make you happy if my mom did that. Sorry."

Looking at your sad expression he held both of your hands in his and said looking in your eyes, "I know you did this to make me feel home. Thank you so much. It exactly felt like my mom's. You made me feel better."

Looking in eyes and hearing his words made your heart flutter as it did in all those days in the past years. You hugged him and he took you in his warm embrace. You wanted to say that you loved him but couldn't. You two just stood there hugging each other as the moments passed by though you didn't want it to. Yet a very subtle though not a very subtle way of loving each other.

After two days at evening Jungkook came to your house almost breathless and as soon as you opened the door he hugged you tightly as if he loosened his grip even for a little bit you would fly away. You could feel his racing heart so you decided to give him his time and soothed his back gently. After about a few minutes he loosened his hug and looked at you with glistening eyes. You became concerned by the look on his face and took him inside by his hand. After making him sit down on the couch you held his hands and asked as comfortingly as you could, "It's alright, I'm here. What happened?"

He looked down and broke down into small sobs. You never saw him broken like this. The scenario in front of you was heartbreaking and your eyes became moist too. You stood up and hugged his head. He rounded his hands around your waist and cried in your chest. You stood there with your hands on his head for a time that didn't seem to end. As if realising that it had been too long since he started crying you broke the hug and took his face in your palms making him look at you and wiped off the tears.

"Now now, stop crying and tell me what happened otherwise how will I be able to solve the problem?" You said and went to bring water.

Drinking water he became quite stable and said, "Today at university our H.O.D. said that they are going to send me to Korea for some special projects as I excelled in class. They are going to send me there for one year and I can't come back in the middle." He explained the situation to you still hiccuping and drinking water like a baby. You smiled at him and said excitedly, "So? What's the big deal? That's a great news! A huge opportunity I would say. And let me tell you I am hella proud of you." You smiled at him and took the glass to keep it back. As you turned back to do so he held your hands to stop you and said barely whispering, "I can't. I'll miss you. I love you."

His words made your heart fall apart. You went close to him and kissed him on his lips. His expression was that of an utter disbelief. Before he could regulate his thoughts you had already broken the kiss. You smiled at his shocked expression and said softly, "I'll wait for you."

Suddenly the moment got cut off by the sound of clearing throat. You two snapped out of the trance like situation and looked at the direction from where the sound came from. You saw your dad standing at the kitchen door crossing his arms. Seeing his posture Jungkook got embarrassed. He bowed apologetically after standing up and said, "Sorry uncle. I'll take my leave now. Sorry for ruining your evening."

"Stop there young lad! What do you take us old dudes for? Huh? Putting up all those act of being a gentleman won't work. You come here all the time and now saying sorry for such petty matters? Now come and have dinner with us! And stay here tonight." Your dad had started saying with a serious tone and ended with a laughter.

Both of you smiled at him and Jungkook bowed to him saying, "Thank you uncle!"

At dinner your parents seemed happier than usual. You tried to think about the reason that was making them so happy but you couldn't come up with any so you thought of asking them later.

When you went to leave Jungkook at the guest room your mom appeared from behind and said with a troubled expression, "Oh honey! I forgot to dust the guest room today. It's all untidy and dirty. I guess you will have to sleep somewhere else tonight."

As soon as she finished her sentence your dad appeared as if he was waiting for his entry and said with a intelligent expression, "Oh! That seems to be a problem. Why don't you sleep in y/n's room tonight? There's plenty of room in her room!" and he laughed heartily.

Jungkook seemed to catch this opportunity and said, "Are you sure? I can still sleep on the couch!"

"Oh no no darling! I insist you to sleep in y/n's room tonight. Her bed is much bigger than she actually needs!"

And like that you two ended up in the same room cuddling each other for the first time. At first it was awkward but you took the initiative and scooched closer towards him and cuddled him. He became genuinely happy as you did that and brought you closer. The smell coming from him was tentalizing and your heart raced. But it was not only you whose heart was racing. His heart was racing by the thought that finally you accepted him, that he would be able to love you from now on as you deserved and as he wanted to, that he would be able to take care of you. He kissed your forehead and looked outside of your window to the moon.

You followed his eyes and looked at the moon but couldn't look at it for longer. You didn't want to ruin this moment with your scars that you hid so well. To ease your own feelings you asked him, "So when are you leaving? Is it really soon?" You tried hard to control your voice that shook at the end of the sentence.

He just nodded at first in reply to imply that it's real soon and then clearing his throat he said, "The day after tomorrow. I really don't want to. I want to.." You stopped him midway by keeping your finger tips on his lips and said, "It's important for you. I don't want to be the reason that held you back in the road to your success. And like I said earlier, I am not going anywhere. I am the best girlfriend you are gonna get anyways." At this Jungkook laughed out loud and you smiled at him fondly. You tried hard not to cry and leaned closer to him.

"I promise to love.." Jungkook was just starting to say this when you sprang up said, "Please don't! Don't promise. They break always. We are just fine like this, without promises. Aren't we?"

"Yes we are." Jungkook replied mildly and pulled you making you lie down again.

"So your tomorrow is mine!" You said to lighten the mood.

"Yes! My tomorrow is yours, my everyday is." Jungkook smiled pulling you closer and then you two fell into a comfortable sleep.

"Are you sure you are fine with this? We don't have to do this you know!" Jungkook said with a concerned expression.

"Yes I am positive! Don't worry!" You showed him a thumbs up to convince him but innerly you were afraid, very much.

Waking up in the morning that day you decided to go to an amusement park with Jungkook as he loved to have fun rides. Reaching there when passing by a bungee jumping area you noticed how Jungkook's eyes lit up but he didn't say anything because he was aware of your acrophobia. You wanted to make this day count for him before he left for Korea. He wouldn't be here for a whole year and that's what made you desperate to make this day memorable for him.

You thought to yourself that love was indeed crazy and then sighing insisted Jungkook on going on bungee jumping.

Jungkook stood at the foot of the tower looking at you with worry and may be there were some sprinkles of tears in his eyes that were not noticeable for you from such a height. You looked at him and imagined that may be this height was the hurdle in the way of reaching your love. Though that imagination didn't help much but you tried hard to overcome your fear. You looked at Jungkook for one last time and saw that he was giving you a reassuring gesture. Seeing that you felt a relief but that didn't last long. You closed your eyes and jumped shouting loudly, "I LOVE YOU JUNGKOOK!" and in no time you were at the bottom. When you opened your eyes you saw Jungkook right before you with tears in his eyes. After unfastening the belts you were barely able to stand but Jungkook was quick to be your support. He held you firmly yet with care. When the mist fear got cleared from your head you looked at Jungkook and the dried tear marks on his face made your heart melt. You hugged him and said, "I love you my Kookie baby." He smiled in your hair and replied, "I love you much more my y/n/n." He lifted your face up and kissed you, a small but passionate kiss.

When the day ended both of you were tired. After having dinner outside you went to Jungkook's apartment to help him pack. His room was messy as usual and you facepalmed mentally. After packing everything necessary and also some unnecessary things that Jungkook wanted to take with him you sighed looking at the three shirts that he wanted you to choose from for wearing tomorrow. You layed down the shirts on the bed and thought deeply with your right hand under your chin. You huffed loudly because in your opinion Jungkook looked handsome in everything he wore. Hearing your sigh Jungkook looked at you and smiled to himself. Then he went up to you and backhugged you. You were startled at first but there was something in the warmth of his body that made you melt down in his hug. You leaned in closer to him as Jungkook pushed aside your hair and kissed your neck making a wave of pleasure run through you. You turned to him and kissed him. The more you kissed the more deep and passionate it became. His every touch was so full of care and love. In no time both of your clothes were on the ground. The feather touches and kisses that he left all over your body left you wanting for more. Your moans were making Jungkook crazy. He wanted to show you the chaotic passionate side of him but he was not sure. You looked at his eyes and understood what was going through his mind. Pulling him closer you whispered in his ear, "It's okay, you don't need to hold back." and smiled at him. He smiled back seductively and began thrusting with more power. It was nothing like you ever felt. Your mind was going blank from pleasure. You arched your back as you reached your orgasm but Jungkook wasn't done yet. He made you go insane as you had orgasms one after another and your body though becoming weak was wanting for more. When Jungkook reached his climax a heavenly feeling washed over both of you as both of you hit the ultimate orgasm together. Jungkook lied beside you huffing, all sweaty but still looking extremely hot, and pulling you closer he pecked your forehead. You smiled and pulled the sheet to cover your bodies.

"Come on Kook! You are gonna be late!" You shouted after sorting out all his luggages out of his apartment. "Coming coming! I can't find my Timberlands!" Jungkook shouted back from inside the apartment.

You sighed and went inside to find it. After looking for it for awhile you found it under the huge haversack that he wanted bring out himself. You smacked his hips and smiling naughtily you said, "What do I get if I find you your precious Timberlands?" and arched one eyebrow. Jungkook smiled heartily and said hugging you, "How about we have a lip fight? Well, I could have given you something more but someone was just shouting at me saying that we are gonna be late."

"Mmm! Lip fight sounds intriguing. But I am not interested in the "more" thing." You laughed.

"Hey! I know you love it! I saw your face last night. Should I fill in you with the details?" Jungkook replied cockily and then looking at your blushing yet shocked face he laughed out loud.

You started smacking him but he held your hands and hugged you from behind ,"We are going to be late now for sure." He whispered in your ear. You didn't want to let go but had to. You sighed and then urged him to get out of the apartment. After getting in the taxi you both were silent. You leaned your head on his shoulder and played with his fingers. He didn't say anything and let you do what you were doing. While seeing him off at the airport your eyes became teary. His heart was breaking too but he stayed strong for your sake. He hugged you one last time before leaving and whispered, "There's a thing called internet, you know that right? Don't waste those precious tears."

You laughed at his words and waved at him to go. He waved at you back and went away. He looked back at you occasionally and you waited there until the crowd swallowed him.

"You called for me Director?" You asked as you entered director Wilson's workspace.

"Ah! Yes yes! Have a seat!" Director said gesturing you to sit down.

After you sat down director cleared his throat sitting down and handed you a file. You looked through the pages and it was about the next government tie up with other countries. It's one of the most important projects that came up recently. You looked up confusedly and said, "But sir I was sent to Nairobi past month for this same project! Are you going to send me this month too? What about others?"

"See y/n we got a bit of a problem here in this particular country. The newly made cultural community under the foreign culture exchange department are having some issues. And this project holds an immense impact on both our countries. And I don't think anyone would be better than you in solving this current crisis." Director said with a serious yet worried tone.

"Where are you sending me sir?" You asked as the country's name wasn't mentioned anywhere.

At this question of yours the director seemed a little hesitant. He looked at the window and said, "Seoul."

Your heart thumped as the name came out of director's mouth. "I can't go there, in no way." You thought. "I can't get in touch with my past!"

Seeing your colourless face director understood your condition. He said, "Don't worry y/n we took special care about your accommodation and working conditions! You don't have to get in touch with any past workers except Director Jung. Please we are counting on you."

"Alright sir. You can count on me on this! When am I departing?" You said, after all you were a professional and knew how to differentiate your personal world from the professional one.

"Thank you Y/n! You are departing the day after tomorrow. Here are all the informations about your accommodation and tickets are there too!" saying this the director handed you another file.

"For how many days are you going to stay there?" Your mom asked as you were packing bags the night before leaving.

"I don't know mom. The work may take some time. I will try to wrap up things within a month. And they are going to extend my stay there if I tell them to." You replied.

"Did you tell Jungkook that you are going?" Your mom leaned on the door.

"No mom!" Hearing the name of Jungkook brought an automatic smile on your face, "It's a surprise!" You chuckled.

"But are you really okay with going back?" You mom kept a hand on your shoulder and asked worriedly.

You knew why she was saying this. The leftovers of Jimin in your memory still haunted you sometime but Jungkook was always there to protect you. Going back may result in some inconvenience but you believed that Jungkook would be there by your side. The saddening memories brought tears to your eyes and you can't help but compare Jungkook with him. But suddenly as if knowing that you were sad Jungkook messaged you.

You were smiling all the time while texting Jungkook but after keeping the phone down you sighed heavily as melancholy pulled its sheet over you, again. You opened your phone's playlist and played a random song. But after listening to the song that started playing it felt like it was talking of you somehow.

After the song ended you decided to sleep. "If I stay awake anymore my thoughts will eat me alive." You finished packing and facetimed Jungkook. When the call ended your heart wasn't the same as it was awhile ago, it was happy now.

...

Coming out of the Incheon airport you inhaled in the South Korean air. It was not like there was anything different or some magic would happen to you if you did it but you still inhaled sharply. After calling a cab you gave him the address to Jungkook's apartment in Central Seoul. Reaching there you saw Jungkook was coming out from his apartment. You knew where he was headed to so you hid yourself and followed him. Walking a short distance he entered a café. You entered the café too and sat at table which made your back and Jungkook's back face to face, so there was no chance of him seeing you. Rachel, Jungkook told you her name, was already there. She was definitely beautiful and your heart raced fast at the possibility of the past repeating itself. You prayed hard to God to prove you wrong. Though they were talking mildly but you were able to hear them clearly.

Rachel: I ordered your favourite drink!

Jungkook: Wait! How do you know?

Rachel: I have my ways! Now, you don't want me to reveal them! Ha ha!

Jungkook: Yeah whatever! Tell me where are you having problems?

Rachel: (putting her hands on Jungkook's) Oh! The assignments can wait! Let's talk about something else, like us?

Jungkook: (taking away his hands) Listen, I don't have any interest in 'us'. Because I already have a beautiful 'us'.

Rachel: Come on! Forget about her! I bet she doesn't even have time for you because of her all that high profile works! You will be much happier with me. On another note, you can be my boyfriend here, no need to tell her now! You must feel lonely in that apartment of yours. I saw her social media. She is not even that beautiful. You will eventually get fed up with her.

Jungkook: Listen,I have heard enough of your bullshit! I came here only because she told me to help you out! I have told you earlier and I will tell you this last time! I only love her. No matter where I am, no matter how far we are, I will always love her and her only. And about beauty? She is far more beautiful than you. She is the most beautiful person I have ever met! Now, I would like you to not bother me anymore!

Fuming with anger Jungkook stood up and left the café. You watched his walking figure and sipped your drink with happiness, a happiness that you didn't know you were longing for. This incident pulled out the small thorn of doubt that always poked you. Coming out of the café you went straight way to Jungkook's apartment. You knew he wouldn't be there now because he texted you after going out of the café still fuming with rage and told you that he was going to university. As you entered his apartment and facepalmed immediately and smiling to yourself you thought, "Why am I not even surprised?"

His apartment was as messy as always. You cleaned and organised everything while humming to yourself happily.

Jungkook could tell that there was something odd when he entered the apartment without using his keys. He suspiciously entered and his cautious self got even more alarmed when he saw that everything in the there was organised and a delicious smell of Kkanpung saewu (Sweet and spicy shrimp) was coming out of the kitchen. He was now confused as hell. "Has my mom arrived? But she never told me that she would be visiting?" He asked himself. As you heard him entering the kitchen you turned around and said, "Oh! You are home already!" Jungkook felt all his systems shutting down. He was too surprised and happy to react. He got his consciousness back when he felt his tears rolling down his cheeks and you were hugging him. He could barely utter, "You? How? When?"

"Magic" you replied smiling at him.

A/n: It took me so long to write this one down! I have my own excuses though 😅 I hope you enjoy this one! There will be one last chapter may be! Stay tuned! Thank you for reading. Love you all 💜💜💜

P.s.- Ya gurl turned one year older this 10th ! Lmao! I am oldddd!