#ateez ensemble x reader

[yunhoee]

Summary: The year is 2031, and y/n is looking for a fresh start on her vacation with her sister. 3 months post breakup, and she's ready to stop wallowing. Korea has been a dream location for y/n for years, she is excited for all the sightseeing and food! Her sister has other plans, when she suggests attending a certain someone's charity birthday event.

Pairing: idol!Seonghwa x corporate!reader

Genre: fluff, romance, angst, seonghwa x reader, ateez ensemble

Length: 8,947 words

Author’s Note: I’m not sure yet if this fic will have smut! Once that has been figured out, I will update the tags if I need to :) I hope you enjoy! I don’t have a proofreader, so I apologize if there are any errors!

You jolt awake to the sound of your airplane pilot asking everyone to remain seated, because the plane will be landing soon. It takes you a few minutes to figure out where the fuck you are. You decided to take sleeping medicine since flying isn’t your favorite. The last thing you remember is the flight attendants making your bed. You are an established 35 year old, so the first class seats on a long ass flight were much needed.

Ten minutes later, you’re situated and looking out the window. You peek to the seat next to you, to see your younger sister somehow still asleep. It’s her 21st birthday, and you both are finally going on the trip you’ve been trying to make happen for years now. You gently wake her up so that the seat can be upright. She has the same look on her face that you did, so you leave her alone until she’s more awake.

So what exactly is this trip you’re on? Well it’s you and your sister’s dream trip to Korea. You’ve been promising your sister a trip together to Korea since she graduated high school, but could never get the timing right and here you are in 2031, finally making it happen. Over the years, you both have formed a love for Korea through k-pop, k-dramas, and food. It was exciting to be going to all these places you’ve been dreaming of seeing for years. You weren’t into k-pop as much anymore, but still had your favorites of course. You love to travel so knowing you’re about to land in Korea feels surreal.

“Oh my god, Y/n! I can’t believe we are about to land!” Your sister whispers excitedly.

You smile back at her, “Me either!”

You both watch the window in excitement during the landing process. You will be in Korea for at least the next two weeks. Your first stop and most likely home base is Seoul, but you both plan on going to as many different cities as you can.

A few hours later

Your sister pushed open the hotel room door, “Damn, Y/n! You rolled out the red carpet for me. This room is huge!”

You laugh and respond, “Well we’ve been trying to make this happen for so long, and we don’t get to travel together often so I wanted it to be special. My new promotion didn’t hurt either.”

You both laugh as you’re taking in the room, and the views from the room. You’ve spent the last decade climbing the corporate ladder, it all feels worth it in moments like this. Being able to have no budget on this trip and spoil your sister rotten, what’s better than that?

“Em, do you mind if I take the first shower?” You asked as you started gathering your shower things.

Emma responds, “You’re good! I need to rest and eat my snacks for a little bit!”

You smile and nod. The bathroom is honestly luxurious. You spent a few minutes just looking around. The shower is huge, and the water feels amazing. After taking an extra long and boiling hot shower, you’re at least feeling somewhat more human. Walking back into the room, you find your sister frantically speaking Korean on the phone with one of her friends. You just smile and lay in your bed, assuming it’s just something about her friends.

Emma is in the fall semester of her third year of college. She is also minoring in Korean, which is partially why we are here. We planned a few grad school visits, just to see if she is interested in them. But her being fluent in Korean is so helpful for this trip. You’ve always been the older sister, the second mom to Emma. Now that you’re in a new country where only Emma speaks the language fluently, it’ll be nice to take the back seat to some things.

Honestly this trip for you is a break from life altogether. You’ve been crushing it at work, as usual, but went through a pretty nasty breakup almost 3 months ago. It was definitely one of those moments where you felt as if you had to start all over again. You thought your ex of 5 years was going to be your husband. He got scared of how serious things were getting, and decided to cheat. So yeah. This trip is the start of your new life. The last 3 months have been filled with unimaginable grief and hurt, but you were done crying. Your ex making things official with his mistress was exactly what you needed to make this trip happen.

As you’re mindlessly scrolling on social media, you hear your sister end the call with her friend. She comes over and sits on the bed, and you can tell something is up just by the look on her face.

“What?” You ask in an exaggerated tone.

Emma puts on a smile and the most charm she can muster, “Thank you so much for bringing me on this trip, y/n! I love you so much and I’m so excited to start our adventures together.”

You’re completely confused now, “What the hell did you do, Em? I’m so excited for us too, but why are you acting suspicious as fuck right now?”

Emma responds, “Nothing! I’m just really excited for our adventure to get started, so I made plans for us tonight!”

Y/n’s mouth drops open, “Tonight?! EM! Are you crazy? We just had an almost 20 hour travel day! Look I know you’re young, but I can’t do the same things you can. I’m 35! I need my sleep.”

Emma looks dejected, “I’m sorry. I was just really excited, and my friend was able to get us tickets to this event tonight. It’s going to be really cool, lots of celebrities too. My friend works for the company, so it’s a really cool opportunity.”

Y/n grabs Emma’s hand, “I’m sorry if I came off aggressive, I was just surprised. You should totally go, Em! What a cool opportunity for you! I wonder if you could even network.” Y/n finished talking, but is now lost in thought trying to figure out how to give her sister tips on how to network.

Em squeezes your hand, “Hey. No work talk on this trip okay? I have barely seen you because of work the last 3 months. You haven’t been slick.” She pokes your side.

Y/n smiles, “Yeah because of the breakup, I kind of turned into a workaholic. But no more! I’m starting brand new on this trip. –About earlier, please go? Can you go with your friend? I would hate for you to miss something like this because I’m too tired.”

Emma responds as she’s standing up from your bed, “Oh I suppose I can just go with my friend. But you didn’t even let me tell you who’s at the party. Or I guess who the party is for.”

You quirk your eyebrow, “Who’s the party for?”

Emma smiles deviously, “Park Seonghwa.”

You immediately freeze. Surely Emma isn’t talking about the Seonghwa from ATEEZ. They’ve been doing things as a group here and there, mainly in Korea. After their military service, they’ve been slow to return to their previous schedule. Which you were happy with, they deserve a break. Coming to Korea, you hadn’t even thought of the chance of getting to go to one of their events. They have always been your ult group, but it’s definitely slowed down since their hiatus, and your life getting busy. Your ex hated ateez, but especially hated Seonghwa. Honestly, a huge red flag you simply ignored.

Y/n sighs, “Is this like a public event? I don’t want to be creepy and just show up to a closed event.”

Emma sits on the bed next to you, “So it’s Seonghwa’s birthday, but he wanted to make it a charity event. Hence the tickets. It’s actually a really big event, since it’s the first one KQ has put on in a while. There will be a handful of different organizations there, and all the proceeds from tonight will be split amongst the groups!”

You smile, “Wow. That doesn’t surprise me, they’ve always been generous.”

Emma responds, “There’s going to be a bunch of different fun activities. Lot’s of KQ staff, atiny’s, and just people who support Seonghwa and ateez. My friend who works there said the members would love it if fans came too.”

Y/n is in disbelief, “Your friend works for KQ? Damn Emma, that's crazy.”

Emma chuckles, “Minoring in the Korean language helps. I did a project on KQ last year, and my friend was just an intern at the time. Now she’s a full-time employee! I’m so excited to finally meet her in person. But I told her all about your situation, and how you’d be hesitant to come. She wanted me to tell you that Seonghwa is really excited at the thought of seeing international atiny again, since it’s been a few years since they’ve performed outside of Korea.”

Y/n thinks for a moment and sighs, “So I guess I’m going tonight?”

Emma squeals, “Yes!!! You won’t regret it! I really think tonight is going to be a lot of fun! And you’ll get to see ateez members again!”

You groan and pull the covers up, “So what do we wear? I’m barely functioning right now, so I’m going to need your help.”

Emma jumps right up, “I’m on it! You can just rest until it’s time to get ready.”

You hum in response and immediately fall asleep.

You awaken to Emma shaking you awake.

“Oh my god I started to think you were dead. Get up, we need to get you ready! We leave in an hour and a half.” Emma pulls on your arm and helps you stand. To be honest, the jet lag was hitting hard. Everything currently didn’t feel real. You just knew you needed to move.

Emma was able to get you into a chair in the bathroom. She starts brushing and straightening, as you try to come back to reality by going through social media. A coffee and thirty minutes later, you were in a much better place.

Emma sighs in relief, “There. All straight. I’ll get your dress and accessories all set up! Come out once you’re done with makeup.”

You grab her arm and smile, “Thank you. I literally couldn’t have done this without you. And oh my god!! You look so cute! I was so out of it, I’m so sorry I didn’t notice!”

Emma smiles at her sister and spins to show her the full outfit. After more compliments, Emma is begging you to start makeup because time is running short.”

You giggle and start going through your makeup bag. You weren’t sure what dress Emma picked out, so you just went with your normal makeup routine. Adding extra things here and there, since this is a big event.

Emma peeks her head in, “You look hot! My one request is that you have a red lip! It will be perfect with your dress.” She’s gone before you can respond.

You shrug and start digging in your bag for your red lipstick.

A few minutes later, you’re walking out to see what Emma picked out for you. The second you see the dress you protest.

“Isn’t this a charity event? I packed this dress in case you forced me to go clubbing.” Y/n crosses her arms.

Emma puts her hands up, “Hey, you can’t be mad at me for trying.”

You both are laughing as she gets out her option b dress. She pulls out a strappy a-line black dress. It was mid-length with a slit in the side, but it hugged every curve. Your cleavage is on full display.

Y/n looks at her sister horrified, “You don’t think this is too much” as she gestures to her chest.

Emma shakes her head, “You’ll definitely get some stares, but we’ll cover up on the train. I already asked my friend, and she said there’s no problem with showing some skin! They’ll know we’re foreigners anyway.”

You look in the mirror again. You can’t deny that you look hot, adding red lipstick was definitely the move. Emma and y/n move around the room gathering their purses and making sure they aren’t forgetting anything. One of your straps has already fallen twice, it’s beautiful but a pain in the ass. Your sister hands you your coverup for the train, and you both rush out the door.

As you’re walking you ask, “So where is this happening?”

Emma responds, “They rented out an event center like ten minutes away from here. Nari, my friend who works at KQ, already gave me directions so we’ll be good. She’s going to be watching for us as well!”

“Wow how generous of her. Are you two pretty close?” Y/n asks.

Your sister smiles, “Yeah we’ve been online friends for almost three years now! I can’t wait to finally meet her.”

Y/n smiles back at her sister, and the two of you walk to the train in comfortable silence. You both are admiring all of the new around you. Once you’re seated on the train, the anxiety starts building. The thought of seeing ateez again after being a fan for so many years. The last time you saw them was the tour before they enlisted, which was maybe around four years ago. The nerves are settling in. Before a few hours ago, you had no idea that you would even have the opportunity to see ateez. You are laughing at yourself in your head, feeling like a young fangirl again. You push the nerves down, tonight was all about having fun with your sister and admiring ateez from a distance.

Emma pulls you out of your thoughts, “So I guess I should mention that there’s going to be a ton of cameras outside the event.”

You raise your eyebrow, “Cameras? Well I guess that makes sense. Maybe there will be a way we can go around them?”

Emma smirks, “I wouldn’t count on it. Ours is the next stop.”

You look up and see the next stop is Gangnam. You’re pretty sure that’s the wealthy area of Seoul, makes sense. You can’t help but notice your heart picking up its pace when it’s time to get off the train.

“Are you sure this dress is okay? And that it’s okay for us to be at this event?” Y/n asks Emma.

Emma tries to comfort her sister, “Of course, y/n. It’s a charity event, so anyone with money is welcome. If it makes you feel better, you could always make a donation.”

Y/n breathes and smiles, “Yeah you’re right. I think that would make me feel a lot better. We just aren’t celebrities, so I’m worried about the cameras. Or people questioning why we are there.”

Emma slows to a stop and pulls y/n to the side, “You’ve got to trust me on this okay? My friend works for the company, we are technically her guests. You’re hot and have money, you have no reason to be worried. There’s going to be different activities to raise money, and lots of alcohol. Let’s just have fun tonight, okay?”

You smile at your sister, “You really are all grown up. You’re right, I’m sorry I’m just jet-lagged and nervous.”

You both laugh as you continue walking to the venue. The closer you get, you start to see a lot of security.

“Let me call Nari and tell her we’re about to come in!”, Emma says as she pulls out her phone.

From the distance you can see the venue, people dressed to the nines entering but not before going through a tunnel of photographers. You can also hear MATZ playing inside, trying not to freak out, you decide to let the music give you courage.

Emma grabs your arm, “Okay she’s inside waiting! Let’s go.”

Emma handles security and shows your tickets. They wave you through and you are met with paparazzi everywhere. You try to keep a smile on your face, while you and Emma rush through the cameras. Once inside you both can’t help but laugh. Your laughter is cut off when you look around and see how beautiful the venue is. You are relieved to see that you are in fact not overdressed.

“EMMA!” You hear someone yell. You see a girl run over and nearly tackle your sister with a hug. A smile appears on y/n’s face when she sees her sister finally getting to meet her friend. They spend a few moments laughing and hugging.

“Nari! This is my sister y/n!” Emma brings her over to you.

You take Nari’s hand, “It’s so nice to meet you! Thank you for inviting us tonight! This place is beautiful.”

Nari smiles at you, “I’m so happy you came! I know you both are fighting jet-lag, but I promise tonight will be worth it.”

Emma responds, “Here give me your coverup, y/n! I can give it to the person checking items.”

You’re hesitant, but slowly take your coverup off.

“You’re sure this isn’t too much?” Y/n asks.

Nari reassures you, “Not at all! You look hot! I know the members will appreciate that dress”

Your eyes nearly bulge out of your head, “Ah well I think you are just being nice! Besides, I probably won’t be that close to them.”

Emma returns and Nari asks her, “You didn’t tell her?”

You’re immediately on edge, “Tell me what?”

Emma sheepishly smiles, “Well I didn’t think you would come if I told you.”

Nari rolls her eyes at Emma and explains, “Our seats are right by them. I work for KQ, but over the years I’ve become friends with the members! They’re really excited to meet my American friends. Actually they’re the reason I had two extra tickets. Normally staff only get one, but they knew my situation and insisted on giving me an extra one.”

It takes all of your strength to not run out of the building, or fall to the ground. Yes, you’re an atiny and have been for years. But meeting the members was never on your list! You can be very shy, especially when you’re nervous.

“I wish weed was legal here,” You whisper to the girls.

They both laugh and Nari suggests, “How about we get a drink first? Then we will have to find our seats! But I promise, they’re excited to meet you! I told them you’ve been a fan since the beginning.”

The three of you walk to find a server that has glasses of champagne. The information Nari just told you is making your legs a little wobbly. You’re definitely going to get Emma for this. You grab a glass, chug it, and put it back on the tray.

Grabbing another one, “Okay, ready as I’ll ever be.”

Nari giggles, “I promise you don’t have to be nervous.”

You nod your head, as if that’s going to happen. Nari leads you to your table. The table is near the stage, you weren’t expecting to be this close. You are going to have a nice chat with Emma after this for leaving out so many important details. Once you get seated, you start trying to secretly do some breath work. Thankfully you’ve been meditating for years, so it doesn’t take long to get your heart rate back down. Putting on your professional face, since that’s the only way you’re going to get through this without throwing up. Just in time too, you hear a familiar voice.

“Nari!” You look over to see Hongjoong coming to say hi. He looks incredibly beautiful, it’s hard to not just stare at him.

They speak for a few moments in Korean. Emma also joined in and introduced herself in Korean.

“And is this your sister?” Well there’s no turning back now.

You smile, “Hi! Yeah I’m y/n, Emma’s older sister. It’s so nice to meet you, Hongjoong!”

He sits in the empty seat next to you, “Nari tells me you’re an atiny?”

“Yeah! I started listening to ateez in 2019, and was lucky enough to go to a few shows when you came to America over the years”, Y/n says with a light blush.

Hongjoong’s eyes lit up, “Ah really? Which city were you in?”

Y/n explains, “Well you never came to my state, but the closest show near me was always Chicago! I traveled there multiple times for your shows.”

He smiles, “Chicago is always so special to us. I’m glad to know you were there.”

You can’t help the tears that prick your eyes, “You’re so endearing, Hongjoong. I can feel your love for atiny just by looking at you. I’m glad to know you weren’t secretly a jerk.”

Hongjoong laughs as you see his eyes become misty, “I just understand all that goes into being a fan. The money spent, the time, I don’t take that lightly. It means a lot to me that people would disrupt their normal lives to see our music.”

You smile brightly, “Well you’re one of the most talented people I’ve ever seen! Every penny spent was well worth it.”

A staff member is waving for Hongjoong.

“Can we take a quick picture?” Hongjoong asked.

You’re surprised, “Oh my god of course. I should definitely be the one asking you.”

Hongjoong laughs and you both stand up. Handing your phone to your sister, you don’t miss the shit eating grin she’s wearing. You can basically hear her telling you ‘I told you so’, but at this moment you really don’t care. Hongjoong places his hand around your waist, surprised but not mad about it, and he pulls you in close. You both smile brightly, and Nari says something that makes you all start laughing.

Hongjoong holds your hands, “Thank you for coming, y/n. I know you were really nervous, but we wanted you to come. I’ll see you later?”

You smile hoping you weren’t bright red, “Yeah of course. Thanks jjoong.”

His eyes light up at the nickname as he’s walking back towards the staff. You plop down in your seat and just stare in shock.

“I’m waiting for my thank you.” Emma says with a smirk.

You roll your eyes, the alcohol is starting to make you warm and fuzzy. Or maybe that was just from your conversation with Hongjoong.

Someone comes onto the stage, and starts the event. You have no idea what they’re saying because it’s all in Korean, but you don't mind.

You take this time to look around. Your table being in the front, but a little off to the side. You see that there’s one table to your left, and the one next to that is ateez’s table. You try to not just stare at them, but wow. The last time you saw them this close, was their final concert before their military service. Most of them look physically bigger, and a little older, but it’s still your ateez. You can’t help but smile at the thought. Your strap falls for the millionth time, interrupting your thoughts. You sigh and pull it back up.

A bunch of clapping causes you to look on stage. You see Seonghwa shaking the man’s hand and coming up to speak. You smile as you see him start speaking. You’re not sure what he’s saying, but he’s absolutely perfect. Your heart eyes showing from a mile away.

“Stop drooling,” Your sister whispers with a smile.

You shoo your sister so you can go back to staring lovingly at Seonghwa. He’s just so beautiful, how could you not?! You feel much more relaxed now thanks to the alcohol. As Seonghwa ends his speech, the waiters all come out with what you’re assuming is dinner. It smells delicious, and you begin eating without a second thought.

Nari asks you, “I’m glad to see you feel more comfortable! Are you having fun?”

Y/n smiles, “I am! Thank you again. So what else is going to happen? Emma clearly didn’t fill me in on anything.” You give your sister a dirty look.

Nari laughs, “Well right now the members are preparing for the short concert they’re putting on for us.” You look to where ateez was sitting, to see that none of them are there anymore. Nari continues, “After that, there will be different games to raise money for the organizations tonight. Oh and then we will head to KQ for the afterparty!”

Your eyes widen, “Afterparty? At KQ? Are you sure I’m allowed to come to that? I don’t want the members to be uncomfortable!”

Nari looks at Emma, “I see why you didn’t tell her.”

They both laugh and Nari continues, “You and Emma are already on the list. If that doesn’t make you feel better, then just know that you also have a personal invitation from Hongjoong.”

“You guys are trying to kill me.” Y/n says before taking a giant swig of her drink.

The tables have been cleared, and the lights go out indicating the beginning of the concert. It feels surreal when the lights come back on, and ateez is standing on the stage. Their aura fills the room, you can feel the energy levels rising. Since this is Korea, you know the expectations for concerts are much different here than in America. Especially since this is a charity concert. The music starts, and ateez begins performing. The fact that they’re performing Crazy Form right in front of you, and you have to just sit there is difficult. You love hyping them up.

You and Emma start dancing and singing along quietly in your seats. The other side of the table is filled with Nari’s work friends. The more you and Emma are enjoying yourselves, the more Nari and the other staff at the table join in. At this point your table is having the most fun, singing and dancing while sitting together. This entire time you want to pinch yourself. How is this real?

The next song they perform is Bouncy, you and your table getting more rowdy by the minute. Everyone feels the alcohol taking away their worries. Hongjoong walks over to your side of the stage, laughing at the sight of kq staff and new friends. He loves the energy, and encourages it. After a few more songs, and lot’s of giggling from your table, Hongjoong begins to speak before the next song.

“Thank you everyone for coming! It’s been such a special night celebrating Seonghwa turning 33. We only have a few more songs before all the games and fun begin. But I wanted to dedicate this next song to a special atiny from America. Her coming tonight was all by chance, and I think that just shows the deep connection that ateez and atiny will always have. We will always find a way to be together, even by accident.”

Your eyes are watery and you smile at Hongjoong. Emma hugs you from behind while sitting, knowing you’re probably trying not to cry. Dreamy Day starts playing, and you have to try even harder not to cry. The members are all making sure to come to your side of the stage and wave. None of this feels real, but your heart feels like it could explode with how happy you are. Your table starts waving their arms to the chorus, and you of course join in. Emma hasn't seen you smile this big in a really long time.

After the show, you just sit there for a minute sipping on water. Still trying to convince yourself that all of that just happened.

You feel Nari’s hand on your shoulder, “Alright let’s go get more drinks and see what games there are!”

Y/n smiles and walks with Nari and Emma. The three of you decide to take a shot at the bar together, before grabbing your mixed drinks. Walking into the other main room you smile. It’s decorated like a carnival, all the games you used to play when you were younger were there. There’s an atm, so you go pull out a good chunk of cash. You walk back to Emma and Nari and hand them both a stack of money.

“Go ahead! I’m going to check out the different organizations over there” You point to the booths on the other side of the room. “I want to make sure I get my donation in, before I get too tipsy.”

Emma asks, “Are you sure? You don’t want us to come with you?”

Y/n smiles, “I won’t be gone long, and then I’ll come find you!”

Emma nods her head, “Thank you for the spending money! Call me if you get lost.”

You laugh and walk towards the booths. Your strap falls…again. You pull it back up as you get to the first booth.

You smile and say, “Hello.”

The people look at you and then look at each other. One of them manages to say, “Sorry. No English.”

You internally slap your forehead. You’re in Korea, of course they don’t speak English. You look to where Emma was, and she’s gone.

Y/n apologizes in Korean to the people at the booth. She feels someone closely behind her, probably waiting their turn. So she goes to move out of the way.

“Wait.” You hear the person behind you say.

You turn and are shocked at what you see.

“Seonghwa.” The name came out of your mouth so naturally.

He laughs, “And you must be y/n? I was looking for you.”

You’re surprised by that, “You were looking for me?”

Seonghwa nods his head, “Yeah Hongjoong wouldn’t shut up about you. I wanted to meet you myself.”

You can’t help the blush that appears on your cheeks, “Can I ask you a favor?” You surprise yourself by your boldness.

“Anything.” Seonghwa smiles.

You look back to the booths, “Can you translate what these organizations do for me? I would ask Emma or Nari, but I already sent them off to play games. I was wanting to make a donation, but it’s hard when I don’t know what they do.”

You don’t notice, but Seonghwa can’t stop smiling at you, “Of course. I’d love to.”

It took about twenty minutes for Seonghwa to explain the different organizations. You decided on the orphanage that was from Seonghwa’s hometown. Thanking him profusely for translating. He’s surprised to see you walk up to the organization from his hometown, something in his chest begins to stir. He sees the people at the booth jump up when they see your donation amount. They begin bowing and shaking your hand. He can’t help but chuckle when he sees your surprised face. You kept telling them it wasn’t necessary to thank you, you were happy to help.

You walk back to him, face flushed. You were so embarrassed by their big reaction to your donation, you didn’t notice your strap fell…again.

Seonghwa gently pulled your strap back onto your shoulder. You look at him with wide eyes, heart pounding.

“What made you pick them?” He looks to the booth you just came from.

You smile, “Well it’s your birthday. I wanted to support a place from your hometown. Is that okay?”

Seonghwa responds, “Of course. You just surprised me.”

You say cheekily, “I’m full of surprises.”

You both laugh and your heart races when you see the way he looks at you.

“Well, I guess I should find Emma and Nari. Thanks again for helping me!” You say with a smile.

Seonghwa asks, “Can I walk with you?”

You look surprised, “Oh of course! You don’t need to get back to your party?”

He smiles, “Nah. I’m off duty now.”

The two of you begin walking to the carnival part of the party. You can’t help but look at all the games, wondering how they got everything in here.

“Wanna play?” Seonghwa asks, standing in front of the skee ball.

You respond, “Yeah! Let me go to the atm real quick.”

He stops you, “No I want to pay for you. Please? It is my birthday.”

You stand there conflicted, “Fine but only a few games! I’m perfectly capable of paying for my own games.”

Seonghwa smirks, “I’m fully aware. Let me take care of you tonight.”

You blush at his statement, but nod your head.

The two of you begin your skee ball game. It only takes a few rounds for your ultra competitive side to come out.

Seonghwa stands triumphantly, “Ha! That’s 5-1. I thought you said you were good at this game?”

You gasp at him, “I am!! It’s because you have longer arms, and the setup is a little different than what I’m used to!” You are very clearly pouting over losing.

Seonghwa can’t stop the laugh that explodes out of him. While you stand there pouting.

He looks behind you, “The air hockey just opened up, want to lose on that too?”

You give him a dirty look and walk to where the air hockey machine is.

“I’m actually really good at this, so you better watch out.” Y/n says with confidence.

Seonghwa chuckles, “That’s what you said at skee ball.”

You roll your eyes, “Let’s stop talking so I can stomp you. Then you’ll see.”

You both have spent the last ten minutes being ultra competitive with each other. The two of you are completely zoned in, and determined to win this game. The trash talk comes out so naturally anytime one of you scores, or someone misses. From the outside, it doesn’t look like two strangers who just met tonight.

“HA! Game point for me!!” You yell as you serve the puck.

Seonghwa says nothing, he’s too busy trying not to lose to you. He hits the puck back, but accidentally makes the puck fly up off board. It’s not the first time your finger has been smacked by the puck, but it always manages to hurt really fucking bad. You drop into a squat, holding your finger tightly.

“Ow! Fuck.” You yelp. You squeeze your eyes and just wait for the pain to subside.

Before you know it, you feel two hands on your elbows lifting you back up to stand. You look to see that it was Seonghwa, and he looks terrified.

“I’m so sorry! Is your finger okay? Can I look at it?” He asks with worry.

You smile, “Don’t worry, I’m fine! It hurt really bad when it happened, but the pain already went away.” Seonghwa doesn’t look convinced so you continue, “You’re telling me your fingers have never been hit while playing air hockey? Seriously, it happens all the time, I’m okay.”

Seonghwa lets out the breath he was holding, “You’re right. I’m sorry though that it happened. I didn’t like seeing you in pain, it really scared me.” He looks into your eyes, the concern for you still there. Seonghwa continues, “But if you promise you’re okay, we should find something else to play.” This is when he notices your strap fell in the commotion. He fixes it gently…again.

“Ah I see. You’re trying to get out of finishing the game so you can’t lose right?” You say cheekily.

Seonghwa smirks, “Nah, I just felt bad beating you after your finger got hurt.”

Your eyes widen as you argue that he was actually not going to beat you, and Seonghwa can’t help but burst into laughter. He loves teasing you.

-After beating Seonghwa in air hockey-

You have the biggest shit eating grin, “Hey better luck next time yeah?”

He shakes his head at you, “A sore loser and a sore winner? You continue to surprise me, y/n.”

You pout, “No I’m not! Maybe you’re just not as good as you thought?”

Seonghwa’s eyebrows raise as he holds in a laugh, “Is that so?”

Y/n smiles and checks her phone. Shit an hour has already gone by.

“I’m sorry, I should probably check on my sister.” You say, and are sad at the thought of having to say bye to Seonghwa.

Seonghwa responds, “You don’t need to apologize. Let me help you look.”

You spend the next five minutes looking around. The two of you gushing over how fun the event turned out, and how it was decorated perfectly.

“Y/n!” You turn your head to see Emma sitting with Nari and her friends.

You smile and walk over, “Hey! There you are. Are you two having fun?”

Now that you’re closer, you notice a boy sitting next to your sister. Even though your sister is very much an adult, you still feel fiercely protective of her.

Emma responds, “It’s been great! I see you found Seonghwa.”

You turn to formally introduce him, “Oh yeah he helped translate the charity organizations for me! We’ve been playing games for a while, but Seonghwa, this is my sister Emma! Emma, I’m sure you don’t need the introduction.”

They laugh and greet each other.

Emma says to Seonghwa, “You were always my bias! It’s so nice to meet you, you’re even more beautiful in person.”

Seonghwa smiles and puts his hand to his chest, “Thank you! It’s always nice to meet atiny.” He looks at you cheekily, “Was I your bias too?”

You’re surprised by the question at first. You’re not sure if it’s the alcohol, or just being in Seonghwa’s presence. The confidence is radiating inside you.

You tilt your head, “Why do you want to know?”

He turns to you and fixes your strap that had fallen…again, “Hm. Just curious.”

You pretend to think for a moment, “I always loved all eight of you, but no. I have..different tastes.” Your smile radiates throughout the room.

Seonghwa can’t help the smirk that appears, “So bratty.”

You don’t notice how Emma and Nari are nearly screaming because of the flirting and tension between you two. You haven’t even noticed that Hongjoong was sitting with your sister and her friends.

Hongjoong interrupts, “Damn Seonghwa, just take her home already.”

You both immediately put distance in between each other. You walk and take the empty seat next to the random guy sitting by your sister. The blush is still lingering on your cheeks. Did you really just do all of that right in front of your sister?! You need to get it together. Seonghwa takes the seat next to Hongjoong, at the other side of the table. It’s a big round table, so you can still see each other.

You try to change the conversation, “So Emma, want to introduce me to your friends?”

The people they were hanging out with are Nari’s friends who also work at KQ. You now know that only Nari, Hongjoong, Seonghwa, and one other speak english. You encourage them all to speak Korean comfortably, you didn’t mind at all.

They continue their conversations. A waiter comes by, and you gladly take a drink from the tray. You begin sipping it while looking around the room. Everyone seems to be having a really great time. You look across the table to Seonghwa, who’s already looking at you. Your heart starts pounding, and you try to be calm as you give him a small smile. You look away and take a big swig of your drink.

You check the time and see that it’s already 9:30pm. You already know you only have a few more hours until your body just completely shuts down from exhaustion. You decide to send a quick text to Emma, hoping she’ll let you skip the after party.

“Oh no you don’t!” Emma stops mid conversation with her friends. Everyone at the table now looks confused at her. She continues, “Y/n is trying to leave early! No way! You can sleep all day tomorrow, we’re not going back until the early morning!”

You look at her shocked, “Early morning?! Are you trying to kill me?!”

Emma isn’t having it, “I don’t want to hear it! We never get to do stuff like this together, when will we ever be in Korea like this together?”

Your head drops and you sigh in defeat, “Okay okay. I’m going to go find the bathroom, but I’ll be back.”

Emma nods and is back into her conversation, you stand and start walking away. Thankfully the bathroom isn’t far from where you’re sitting. After you wash your hands, you start fixing your hair and makeup. When you walk out, you see people going up the stairs. You look to where your sister is, still engrossed in her conversation. You let curiosity take you up the stairs. There’s more tables, and more conversations happening. You’re drawn to the two big doors that are open, leading to the balcony. You stand and hold the railing, your breath taken away by the night beauty of Korea.

“There you are.” A familiar voice from behind.

You smile and turn, “Here I am.”

Seonghwa walks and stands next to you, “I thought you might be trying to sneak and go back to your hotel.”

You giggle, “No way. Emma would kill me.”

Seonghwa smiles, “You’re a good big sister.”

You’re surprised by his words, “Oh- thank you. I definitely have room for improvement, but I love taking care of my family.”

Seonghwa can tell how sincere your words are, he feels how genuine you are. The two of you are unaware that you are both just standing there staring into each other’s eyes.

Seonghwa clears his throat, “I-I meant to come get you because they’re about to start the closing speeches.”

“Oh!” You turn and start walking with Seonghwa, “Thank you for coming to get me! I had no idea.”

He smiles and the two of you walk in comfortable silence back to the main room. He walks you to your table and you thank him again.

“It’s no problem, y/n.” He surprises you and fixes your strap…again. “Don’t run away tonight without saying goodbye. I want to make sure I get to talk to you again.”

You can’t help the blush that appears on your cheeks, “Okay.” You say, nothing more than a whisper.

Seonghwa smiles at you, and walks back to his table. You plop into your chair, in a daze. You look up to see that you missed the fact that Nari and Emma were already sitting and saw the whole thing.

You cover your face, “Don’t.”

Emma has a devious smile, “Oh I don’t know what you’re talking about y/n. I definitely haven’t noticed the palpable chemistry between you two, or the way you two look at each other, or the way he fixes your strap for you.”

“Stoooooop.” You whine, “It’s really nothing. Maybe just a little flirting? But he’s an idol, we can’t be anything more than friends.”

Nari asks, “Why not?”

You look confused, “What do you mean? It’s been awhile since I’ve actively been into k-pop, but I know how strict the dating rules are. Even if there aren’t rules though, the fans take dating pretty hard.”

Nari responds, “You can’t really listen to the people who get angry when an idol starts dating. They clearly have an unhealthy parasocial relationship. Besides, Korea has taken positive steps when it comes to idols dating in the past few years. Especially when the members came back from military service, I think most atiny just want them to be happy.”

You smile, “I’m glad things have gotten better, but I don’t think you guys should get your hopes up about Seonghwa and I. He’s amazing and we get along really well, but he can have anyone he wants. I’m not Korean, I don’t speak fluently like Emma. I wouldn’t be against learning, I just think there’s a lot of reasons he wouldn’t want to pursue a relationship with me. Besides, I’m two years older than him.”

Emma slumps back into her seat, “I knew you would argue against it.”

“Em-” The MC interrupts you, ending the conversation for now. Most of the time you have no idea what’s happening. You pick up a few familiar phrases here and there. At one point the whole room is instructed to sing happy birthday to Seonghwa. His smile took your breath away. Seeing the other members love on him and tease him, it was very endearing. The two of you make eye contact, and you give him a big smile.

To end the celebration, you recognize the people you donated to from Seonghwa’s hometown, standing on stage to close it out. At least that’s what you assume since you don’t understand Korean. Until you see them point to you and everyone turns to look at you. The room erupts in cheering, and you are sitting there horrified. You have no idea why all these random people are clapping for you.

Emma translates, “They’re celebrating the largest donation their organization has seen to date! Y/n, they’re thanking you!”

Emma grabs your arm and walks you onto the stage, internally freaking the fuck out.

“I’ll be your translator,” Emma whispers in your ear. She tells you that part of the contest was seeing who would donate the most. Since you committed to $10k usd a month for an entire year, that makes you the winner. You really wish you would’ve known that before.

The owners of the orphanage both hug you, and thank you profusely. You have Emma explain to them that you didn’t know about the competition, and that you just really loved what they were doing. Unfortunately for you, the crowd loved that even more.

The prize is a trip to Jinju to see the city, and to also tour the orphanage so you can see where your money is going. You feel really touched by them and can’t help the tears that prick your eyes. You thank them yourself in Korean, and hug them both once more. Once you all are off the stage, you are able to exchange contact information so you can figure out your trip.

While all of this is happening, you miss the way Seonghwa is looking at you. Like you personally hung the moon and stars.

Hongjoong elbows him, “Stop drooling.”

After saying bye to the owners, you shyly went back to your seat. You could feel all eyes on you, your strap decides to fall…again. God you couldn’t wait to rip this dress off. Once you sat, Nari grabbed your hand and squeezed it gently.

“I know you’re embarrassed, but you did a really good thing,” Nari says to you.

You smile, “Thank you. I love being able to help financially.” Your genuine aura is like a warm hug to Nari.

She whispers, “Your boyfriend didn’t take his eyes off of you once. He looked like he was ready to fall to his knees.”

You laughed at the boyfriend comment, but looked to where Seonghwa was sitting. He was already smiling at you, and gave you a thumbs up. You couldn't help but blush.

Hongjoong teases Seonghwa, “Did you really just give her a thumbs up?”

Seonghwa whines, “Stop, I panicked okay?!”

They both laugh together at Seonghwa’s unusual behavior.

Nari and Emma are figuring out who’s riding in the cars, and who’s taking the train.

“Damn it, we’re one person off. We could’ve all been in the SUVs, but we have one too many,” Emma says.

You take that as a sign, “That’s okay! I’ll just go back to the hotel, I’m really tired so I don’t mind at all. That way you all can ride together!”

Emma gives you a dirty look, while trying to figure out an alternative that doesn’t include you missing the after party.

“Oh Seonghwa!” Emma says.

You turn and Seonghwa comes up to your group.

“Are you all headed to the after party?” He asks the group, even though he is only looking at you.

Y/n responds, “Ah well we have one too many so I’m just going to head back to the hotel! That way everyone else can ride together.”

He fixes your strap…again and says, “Ride with me?”

Your eyes widen at the offer, “Oh I don’t want to inconvenience you, or get you in trouble.”

Seonghwa laughs, “I’m 33 years old, who am I going to be in trouble with? Besides, I really wanted you to come. It’s not an inconvenience.”

You think about it and ask, “But what if your fans see a random woman leaving with you? Wouldn’t that be a problem?”

He lifts your chin so you meet his eyes, and puts his hand back down, “Why would that be a problem?”

At this point your cheeks are red, “I-I just thought you had to be really careful who you’re seen with.”

Seonghwa smiles, “Nah, not anymore at least. Atiny knows we are grown men. Besides, I don’t think it would be that crazy if we were seen together. You made a really big donation to my hometown, articles are already being written. If anything, people will think we’ve become friends after your generous donation.”

You try to ignore the fact that articles were being written about your donation. You weren’t expecting all this attention. You decide to take a leap.

“Okay. I’ll ride with you,” You say to Seonghwa.

He smiles brightly, “Great.”

“Are you two done now? As much as I love the flirting going on, y/n is still my sister and it makes me want to barf,” Emma says with her hands on her hips.

You lightly smack her arm and whine, “Why do you have to make everything weird?!”

Emma laughs, “I’ll see you at the after party okay?” She looks at Seonghwa, “Look I know you’re my bias and everything, but y/n is my sister. You better make sure she gets there safely.”

You smile at your sister and Seonghwa places his hand on her shoulder, “You have my word. She’s safe with me.”

Emma nods and Nari is smirking at the two of you. They leave with the group, and a part of you is internally screaming. You look at Seonghwa to find he’s already looking at you. He nods his head to the direction you need to go, gently grabs your hand, and leads you through the crowd of people. After stopping multiple times for Seonghwa to say bye to people who attended, you finally make it to the back of the building.

You see the line of black SUVs just waiting for you. What you weren’t expecting were the lines of cameras that were also waiting for you.

Seonghwa says, “We just need to wait for my manager, and then we can head out.”

You smile and nod, your conversation interrupted.

“Well well well. What do we have here, Seonghwa?” Wooyoung says with a smirk.

Seonghwa rolls his eyes, “The staff SUVs were full.”

Wooyoung not fully convinced, “Ah. Got it. Well I’m Wooyoung! I’ve heard all about you tonight.”

You smile at him, “Hopefully nothing bad. I’m y/n, it’s great to meet you!”

“There you are! I was looking for you Woo- oh hey! You’re the girl Seonghwa won’t shut up about!” San says with a big smile.

You and Seonghwa look at each other and laugh awkwardly.

You save Seonghwa from having to respond, “Hi San! I’m y/n, it’s nice to meet you!”

After a few minutes, the topic of you and Seonghwa has finally died down. The boys talked about the night, and how happy they were with the turn out. Seonghwa gets the okay from his manager, and now you are about to go to the car.

Seonghwa looks at you, “I apologize for the cameras. Will you be okay?”

You smile, “Yeah! Don’t worry about me.”

Seonghwa, San, and Wooyoung go out first. Hoping the paparazzi focus their cameras mainly on them. You’re able to sneak behind them without it being too much of a spectacle. You wait by the cars for them to be done with the cameras. You weren’t sure which car to get in.

They’re walking away from the cameras, and Seonghwa waves you over to the right car. He opens the door for you, and you both get in. It’s just you, Seonghwa, and the driver.

“I hope that wasn’t too terrible,” He says.

You shake your head, “Not at all! It ended up being super easy.”

Seonghwa chuckles, “Good. I want you to be comfortable.”

You blush and respond, “I really am okay. You don’t have to worry. I actually feel bad, because you’re doing too much for me!”

Seonghwa looks into your eyes and asks, “Have I not been clear about my intentions?”

You nearly gulp at the question. There’s just no fucking way this is happening right now. As you are internally panicking, Seonghwa presses the partition button. Now it’s just you and him.

You ask quietly, “What do you mean?”

Seonghwa fixes your strap…again but this time his hand lingers, “I am very attracted to you, y/n. I haven’t been able to take my eyes off of you all night. I have this feeling, that maybe you feel the same way about me.” You are swimming in his big brown eyes, probably the most beautiful you’ve ever seen. He continues, “Can we see where the night goes, together?”

[peachyscenes]

from the gazebo | mafia!werewolf!ateez x fem!reader

note: this is a snippet of a piece that i'm currently working on. it's definitely not finished nor is it halfway completed, but out of the 10k words written so far, this is one of my favorite parts. publishing date to be determined. definitely inspired by ice on my teeth.

San and you spent most of the day walking about the estate. You had most of the layout memorized. Their bedrooms were also in the right east wing, but scattered, half of them on the third floor and the other half on the first floor. Employees slept in the left west wing of the estate. You asked San if you’d be sleeping there as well since you're also an employee.

“You're a Helper. Very different from regular staff.” You cocked your head.

“How so?”

San helped you pour your tea, insisting on doing so even when you told him it wasn't necessary. You mentioned how beautiful the gazebo looked from your floor, so he took you. You’re both currently taking a break from the tour. The Victorian style of it, of the entire estate actually, was hard to describe as just beautiful. It took your breath away, and you couldn't believe that you'd be living here from now on.

The little girl inside you is squealing with excitement. If only you could tell her that the prince charmings that saved you were not your average, good-doing citizens.

“How do I put this… You're like a personal assistant. It's pretty common for therianthropes to have Helpers, though usually they're put in education programs to be more… refined?”

“Oh…,” you look down at your appearance. You left some buttons undone of your sleep shirt, the bandages peeking out of the opening. Seonghwa had given you some ointment to help get rid of the faint bruises that scattered your body quicker. Your hair was also untamed at the moment, too tired to brush it out when you woke up this morning. “I don't think I have the refined part down.” San chuckles, sipping on his own tea before continuing.

“There are special circumstances where someone can spontaneously become a Helper. In this case, when the contract was signed for you to be… given to us…” You notice how he chooses his words carefully. “You became a Helper. It's illegal to give or sell people without a reason, hence why most are labeled as Helpers.”

It makes more sense as to why you weren't taken seriously when you were with Dongwook. You were considered a Helper for him, which you didn't even know such a concept existed until now.

“The werekin world sure is different.” San lets out another chuckle.

“You’ll get used to it.”

You want to say more, because it's obvious that their world is different from the regular therianthrope world. You're literally in the hands of the biggest crime syndicate of your city. There's a prolonged silence between you two, just enjoying the weather and the comfort of each other's company. Some minutes pass by when another thought occurs to you.

“I’m sorry for all of these questions, but when you said I’d be like a personal assistant, do you mean like waking you up in the morning?”

San nods slowly, but you know there's more to it. He seems to hesitate to tell you, but you place your hand on his. There's a small smile painting your face, and though your face looks tired with sunken eyes from being bedridden for so long, he can't ignore the small palpitations of his heart when your eyes reflect stars.

“Helpers are companions. Kind of like…,” he pauses, thinking of the right way to describe your role.

“Lovers?” You finish for him. He nods, feeling a bit bashful. He wants to say more about it, but he doesn’t want to make you anxious or feel pressured.

“I'm sure Hongjoong won't push you to do more than what you're comfortable with, but the average Helper assists in companionship, that's what makes them different from staff.”

You nod, thanking him with a squeeze of your hand. You notice the faint bruises that litter his knuckles and you want to ask San about it, but you're not sure if it was appropriate, so you opt to stay silent.

You both sit together under the gazebo, sharing things about each other. From the window of his bedroom, Seonghwa spots the two of you as he's finishing his phone call with Hongjoong.

“Should I go over the details of her contract with her? She seems to be getting along well with some of them.”

“Some?”

Seonghwa chuckles at Hongjoong's tone.

“Wooyoung said she hasn't met anyone else yet. Only him, Yeosang, San, Yunho, and I.”

“And me.”

“Yes, and you, Hongjoong.” He hears a sigh from the other end of the line.

“I would've liked to go over it with her… but I'm getting some serious information here about Dongwook.” Seonghwa hums. While you have knowledge that Dongwook has been taken care of, it seems that he wasn't alone. He was double crossing Hongjoong, so now they have to find out who he was actually working for. “Not to mention… I sent some people to look into her sister.”

“Her sister?”

“Yeah, I met with Stray and Chan said she looked familiar. Felix confirmed that he bought a document from her parents three years ago for a job and confirmed it was her. Saw her in a family photo.”

Seonghwa looks out again at the garden, this time, someone else has joined San and you. You laugh hard at what Jongho says to you, with San seemingly trying to disprove or defend himself. He gets back to Hongjoong.

“Let's not tell her anything. At least not until we have confirmed information.”

They bid each other goodbye. Seonghwa turns back around to look at you and his breath hitches. You're staring up at him and once you both make eye contact, you wave up at him. A small smile spreads on his face, and he waves back. Seonghwa leaves the window, turning towards Wooyoung and Yunho. Wooyoung looks bored as he lays on Seonghwa’s bed facing up. Yunho is leaning on his vanity, picking at his nails. Seonghwa had to hold back from scolding him as his perfumes were moved.

“Hongjoong sent some people to look into it already, but I need you two to look into her sister as well.”

“Huh?” Yunho quirks an eyebrow. “How come?”

Seonghwa’s eyebrows furrow as he purses his lips in thought. To be frank with himself, he's not quite sure either. But after having Yeosang look into your family history and your connection to Dongwook and what he's been up to for the last couple of years behind their backs, it's likely that you have eyes on you. From who? He can't say.

“It's just a hunch. I’m not even sure myself, but we need to keep her safe.” He looks back at the window. If he's quiet enough, he can hear your laughter.

“We made a promise to her. No harm will come her way.”

[ao3feed-ateez]

Whispers of the Pack & Bound by the Moon

read it on AO3 at https://ift.tt/Zum7QFN by Kouero They had thought their pack was complete. Six fantastic alphas and Two equally amazing omegas. They had even settled down with their Music to have pups of their own. Three precious pups later. They had met her…. OR The Stray Kidz pack had three pups and just discovered a wonderful daycare run by an omega and her pup. As they introduce more pack, they realize she is their true mate. Words: 1780, Chapters: 3/?, Language: English Series: Part 1 of Silent Bonds Fandoms: Stray Kids (Band), ATEEZ (Band), TOMORROW X TOGETHER | TXT (Korea Band) Rating: Mature Warnings: Underage Sex Categories: F/M, M/M, Multi Characters: Lee Minho | Lee Know, Seo Changbin, Kim Seungmin (Stray Kids), Bang Chan (Stray Kids), Han Jisung | Han, Hwang Hyunjin, Lee Felix (Stray Kids), Yang Jeongin | I.N, Reader, Choi San (ATEEZ), Choi Jongho (ATEEZ), Jung Wooyoung (ATEEZ), Park Seonghwa, Kang Yeosang, Kim Hongjoong, Song Mingi (ATEEZ), Jeong Yunho (ATEEZ), Huening Kai, Choi Soobin, Choi Yeonjun, Kang Taehyun, Choi Beomgyu Relationships: Stray Kids Ensemble/Everyone, Stray Kids Ensemble/Reader Additional Tags: Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics, Non-Traditional Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics, Alpha Bang Chan (Stray Kids), Alpha Lee Minho | Lee Know, Alpha Seo Changbin, Alpha Kim Seungmin (Stray Kids), Alpha Hwang Hyunjin, Alpha Yang Jeongin | I.N, Omega Han Jisung | Han, Omega Lee Felix (Stray Kids), Fluff and Smut, I'm Bad At Tagging, Omegaverse Omega Reader-Insert, Mentioned ATEEZ Ensemble, Other Ships Not Mentioned in Tags read it on AO3 at https://ift.tt/Zum7QFN

[honeyhotteoks]

into the aurora・series masterlist

series summary: a relationship with all eight members of ateez. you weren't supposed to fall in love with them, but you do.

pairings: ot8 x reader genre: contemporary, reverse harem - ateez ensemble x fem!reader warnings: handled on a chapter by chapter basis, but overall warnings for fluff, smut, angst, and triggering content current word count: 208.6k

📚 fic masterlist | 💌 into the aurora asks

book one summary: you didn’t expect to run into choi san outside of the venue, especially when your phone was dead and you were stranded in a random city. a kind offer for a phone charger turns into so much more, and you end up falling into a relationship with all eight members of ateez.

📌book one masterlist 🔗into the aurora: book one (original) on ao3 📖into the aurora: book one (the 2025 edit) on ao3 ✨into the aurora; book one pinterest board

book two summary: coming summer 2025

📌book two masterlist 🔗 into the aurora: book two on ao3 ✨into the aurora; book two pinterest board

[justbelievinginmagic]

like a waltz⎯ part 2: fondu.

pairing(s): ateez ot8 x fem!reader; this chapter is heavily wooyoung x reader focused with a bit of san x reader & yeosang x reader! series summary: when 8 mysterious bachelors arrive to town and fall for your charms, will you be able to reach your goal to be prima ballerina or be dragged into a selfish waltz between love and obsession? glimpse: wooyoung and you dance around one another for a month - will he commit to being your patron or will it all be a fun game for the mysterious stranger? somewhere in the distant future, you wake up. warnings/tags: inspired by Ateez’s Ice on my Teeth MV & Teasers, Mafia AU, Ballet AU, early 1900’s AU with some divergences in tech advancements (i.e if i think itd be cool to include, this world has it earlier than irl), 3rd person POV, use of YN, mxm, polyteez, MATURE topics, allusions to sex work in ballet, allusions to exploitation in ballet, implied sexual themes (not really for reader x ateez), strong language, ballet lore, angst, fluff, flirting, suggestive topics, lies, manipulation, wooyoung is a sweet gentleman, medical drugs, traumatic foot injury, unequal power dynamics, injuries, alcohol mention, reader discretion advised, +18 readers only. let me know if there are any more tags i should add. a/n: hi! i'm not completely happy with this chapter (mostly the ending) but it has doubled in word count so I thought itd be good enough lol. i love woo in this fic, he's sweet and flirty. he is the glue for the entire polyteez x reader later on. let me know what you thought of this chapter plssss. next chapter will probably have yunho x reader :) word count: 11k first chapter <- -> next chapter series masterlist read on ao3!

fondu; french pronunciation: [fawn-DEW]; sinking down, melting.

That wasn’t the last time she saw Wooyoung in the ballet boudoir. No, for the next seven days, he was there for every show whether it was a matinee or evening performance. He’d be there, sitting in his box - the cursed box number eight – dressed to the nines. She swore his eyes only watched her when she was performing; it felt like her own shining spotlight, chasing after her back and forth, back and forth, back and forth across the stage. It felt electric as she took glances up at his box to see his curled lips and opera glasses peering down at her. YN didn’t wonder where he looked when she was in the wings, because no matter what he’d visit her.

Her.

Not the other girls.

Not the Prima Ballerina.

Her.

During intermission and after the show, he’d be waiting beside the small vanity (the one she shared with four other ensemble members.) Never did his gaze stray to the other girls – and some tried to tempt. He was one of the most attractive men they’ve had in a long time, and the air of mystery he held was intoxicating. A viable bachelor, a way to climb. Ballerinas were hard-workers after all; they loved and knew the long game.

They’d swish past him in their enticing leotards, skin-tight with no tutu to complete their look. They would bare their neck as they gathered their long hair into a bun. Glance at him through their lashes as they stretched.

Still, he waited patiently, arms crossed as he leaned back against the white vanity’s desk. His brooding eyes zeroed in on the boudoir’s doors. Only when he caught her in his sight did he light up like a firework across the night sky.

“Hello swanette,” he’d coo out with the sweetest grin, hand outstretched to her.

“Hello Wooyoung,” it felt dangerous to call him by his first name, intimate. None of the others ballerinas called their patron by their first name – even the ones fucking one another.

YN wasn’t stupid or oblivious. She knew what this was – what this could end up being. She’d watch the prima ballerina, the principal dancers, really all of the rising starlets of the ballet over the years. They all covered their kiss-bruised skin with make-up, tugged on thick nylon tights that would hide their patron’s affections from audience’s view. She wasn’t sure if she wanted that – even with Wooyoung’s handsomeness. In some ways, her pride bit at the thought with rabid hatred; sourness on her tongue at the thought of not truly being different, not truly earning her way to the top.

Regardless of her conflicted feelings, Wooyoung hadn’t hinted at any of that – even after a week. He hadn’t provided monetary aid either so perhaps he was waiting. A bittered part of YN never understood patrons who didn’t sleep with their proteges. (But then again, it was rare to begin with. She hadn’t met one prima ballerina, one feature dancer who hadn’t slept with their patron.) She was always half-expecting him to let his hands dip lower and lower or high and higher, but, to her surprise, they remained fairly decent. He liked grabbing her waist, his thumb would rub circles over the boning over her bodice but it’d stay relatively far from anything intimate. (Any touch from a man in the public society was intimate though. She still flushed and felt the rush of feelings she didn’t quite understand how to place.) In her mind, he had yet to make a move.

Not even a cheeky kiss.

…

It was nice.

He was nice. She could sometimes forget that he paid to sit and talk to her in-between dances. He smelt nice; he looked nice; he acted nice. The fancy-free touches he gave with little thought were something she could enjoy considering the worser options. (Julia had covered up a nasty bite mark on her collarbone the other night.)

Wooyoung and her would speak of nonsense most nights – idle gossip, comments about the show, the dancers, the town-folk, and the bourgeoise that sat in the seats of the theatre. Who’s who in this town? He’d wonder, and she’s point them out under her breath; the men of the high-class with their wandering eyes and their wandering hands all over their own ballerina. Far cruder touches than Wooyoung’s reverent gentleness as he leaned close into her bubble to hear her whispers.

“That man is the owner of the factories popping up across the port,” she’d tell him, pointing with a lithe finger. (Luckily, all the men had one thing in common; they’d never glance upon another patron’s ballerina; they’d never look their way as long as Wooyoung remained distant.)

“Shohei Takahashi.” YN said, watching as the rich factory-owner pressed a greedy kiss to the mouth of the ballerina of his choice. “Huge factories with little pay. I blame the winter gloom on him.”

Shifting her gaze, Wooyoung followed her eyeline easily as he raised his drink to his mouth.

“That’s Lord Frederickson; he’s the biggest importer of goods. Owns the port and its processing factories. Anything coming in and out goes through him. He’s favored by the King – if you believe the King still has a say around these parts.” Wooyoung smirked at that as he watched her jump to the next.

“Kim Dohyun – big shot in the banks,” she said. “I think he’s trying to start a monopoly, but what do I know?”

“A lot,” Wooyoung replied, quickly, before taking a swig of his drink. His dark eyes slid over each man with a snake’s laziness before he locked his attention on her. “Brilliance and beauty.”

“Charmer.” She teased.

“Only for you.”

He’d flatter, flirt, and call her all sorts of sweet names. Beautiful, swanette, little swan, pretty swan, pretty.

-

The ballet was good for two things – pretty art and petty gossip. And despite her claiming she was an artist, first and foremost, she liked gossip just like anyone else. She was used to listening in, eavesdropping, or being told the news by the youngers. It wasn’t often she was the one gossiping.

“C’mon, he didn’t comment at all about Wooyoung?” YN asked one of the older ballerinas before a show.

“No, YN. He didn’t.”

It was a snap of an answer, but she couldn’t blame her. It was the third time she had asked. (Tiny had gotten her habits from someone after all.)

“I heard from someone that he was, like, like, a runaway prince,” said a younger girl, sighing out as she clung to the barre. “He’s as handsome as one.”

“Princes don’t run to Cromer,” Julia commented, tying her hair into a bun.

“But Lords do?” Everly snorted.

“Ha-ha-ha,” she sarcasmed out. “At least I’m getting my costume paid for next season,” Julia countered, tossing a sweater towards the other girl.

“So, none of the other patrons know him?” YN tried again, falling into a full stretch in frustration. Hunched over, she huffed.

“Nope – could be a traveler. You haven’t asked him?” Mina retorted.

YN struck a nasty face at that, scrunching up her nose. As if. Of course she has. All she had gotten was basics. He was from Aurora. He was in town for a while. That’s all she ever got from him.

Did he like the show? Of course, you were in it.

How was his day? Better now that he was here.

How was his stay in Cromer? Was it always this cold? He was too used to Aurora’s temperatures; he missed the bright sun and humidity.

What did he do for a living? Charm you.

It was like a game of chess, trying to get actual answers out of him. If he wasn’t so fun to talk to about other things, she’d be frustrated. Or more frustrated. After all, Wooyoung wasn’t like the other men in town – he was new and exciting. Despite all his mystery, despite the tell-tale hints of tragedy as a protégé and patron, she couldn’t help but begin to fall for the bright smile that greeted her at intermission.

-

It had been two weeks. He’s slowed his attendance to only every other night, warning her that he had other business to attend to on certain days. But he’d still hover around her vanity when he did show. He’d gotten more nosy she noticed. Not in a bad way. Fingers prodded at the make-up containers; he’d peer into her bag, spotting her folded clothes and sometimes a book or two in it. She noticed from the corner of her eye as she’d get ready for the next act, shimming into another feathered costume.

He’d lean on the edge of the vanity, giving her more room than usual and talking but not saying much and always, always, averting his eyes. It made a warmth bubble in her chest. Respect. He respected her. It was rare here. In under a few seconds, she had the new bodice on, snapped and tied with ease. Her skirt shimmied on and fluffed.

“Decent, little swan?” he queried, eyes still facing towards the ceiling.

With a true smile, she’d nod. Tonight, with affection bubbling in her chest, she reached out to cup his chin with gentle fingers and guide his face down to meet her gaze. His skin felt electric-hot beneath her fingertips like the hum of new-powered light bulbs at the cinema.

“Hello pretty,” he crooned. A tempting smile crossed his face as he shifted forward at her guidance. His fingers pressed against the vanity shifted to land on her waist. He liked the way the feathers felt, the beads he could fiddle with, and the warmth radiating from her.

“Spin for me?” he encouraged.

She held back an eye roll of fondness; when had she grown so fond?; he had seen this costume far too many times, but each time he had her spin about, and he’d grin and flatter and flirt. And she’d flush and flutter.

As she twirled, his fingers barely left her waist, feeling the fabric, feathers and beading twist and tug at him with her movement. He wished her hair would be out of the perfect tight bun, so it’d flow down freely. But Wooyoung didnt encourage such a thought – he was a reasonable man. For now.

“Beautiful,” he complimented, tugging her by her waist to stand in between his legs.

His fine velvet pants brushed against her nylon-tight clad legs. His fingers fiddled over her waist, dancing across beads and sequins, handsewn and delicate. Just like every night. He didn’t climb higher or lower, simply thrummed his fingers across her mid-section as he smiled at her pleasantly. 

“She makes it, you know,” there was an exclamation from a local eavesdropper, Tiny.

The youngster grinned over at Wooyoung from her spot, warming up on the floor. The little girl was cute in the eyes of Wooyoung; the tiny ballerina flashed him an innocent smile even when YN glared at the younger with a clear look of ‘shut up.’

“Makes what, kid?” he queried, glancing her way.

“Her costumes! We all do – or well, we all pay for them. Not YN though! She sews ‘em; all of hers are made by her!”

“Tiny,” YN tried to hush, but Wooyoung squeezed her waist playfully firm.

“Really?”

His tone was melodic as his gaze trailed from the tips of YN’s ballet shoes over her long-toned legs clad in white stockings with the smallest of rhinestones sewn into the fabric… over the white tutu before trailing around her bejeweled waist of beads, false pearls, and feathers. The feathers curved around her, hugging her chest. Everything was tied together with the pretty white-feathered clips in her hair. Everything looked exquisite.  

“You never told me that,” Wooyoung commented. He pouted at her.

That wasn’t the reaction she expected. Surprise, yes. Perhaps pity? Perhaps disgust? She couldn’t afford a seamstress after all. It was embarrassing.

“You never asked,” YN retorted.

He smirked, a rumble of a pleased laugh bubbling in his chest.

“I guess I hadn’t,” he admitted.

Had he asked anything about her… other than her dancing talent and the daily gossip of the theatrical world? He tilted his head as he took her in again. How much did she know about him?

Some questions he answered; others he twisted words until they were onto another conversation. His questions remained on her work. How long had she been in the ballet? How did a beautiful talented woman not have a starring role? Did she like it here? Did she like him?

Their conversations always ended back to that. More times than not she thought he was playing her like a cat would play with a mouse. While he paid for entrance to the foyer de la danse, like most of her suitors, he had not taken her up as a protégé. Most of the girls who had a patron reassured her that it took time. Some had to fall to their knees first before he agreed.

So, now when his head tilted as he examined her, it felt like the air changed. Ever magnetic but something deeper as his finger picked at a bead with his fingernail.

“You made this?” he asked again, fingering at the beadwork.

Its intricate pattern caught the light on stage beautifully, but he never noticed it made a pattern of a lily pad, ‘til now.

“Yes,” she said, shivering as his touch tickled her ribs.

He noticed her glancing aside, almost shy.

“What other talents do you have, swanette?” He queried, voice low.

“Far too many,” she teased before she escaped his grasp to go towards the now empty-vanity.

Tease them, the older ballerinas had advised. They like a chase, just be sure to let them catch you every now and then. Julia had told her.

There was the stain from their first meeting. A remnant of his rouge-covered fingers in the fine-wood of the ivory vanity. It never seemed to leave despite her scrubbing. Her finger brushed over it on its way to pick up a powder puff to press it into her skin. Wooyoung’s fingers trailed over her arm, looking over her shoulder in the mirror.

“You surprise me,” he admitted. “You know my hyungs love fashion – they’d love to meet you.”

“You don’t know my fashion-taste, Mr. Jung,” she told him, raising a brow. “Just my costumier’s taste.”

“Oh, Mr. Jung, hm,” he repeated in a tut. His chin pressed into her shoulder, face tilting ‘til his lips nearly pressed against her skin. Hot breath fanned over her shoulder down her chest. Gooseflesh tickled up her spin.

“Did I upset you?” he teased before whispering in her ear. “I’m sorry I didn’t ask about your pretty costume.”

She snorted, a bit unlady-like but it made his own lips twitch into a smile. He liked her smiling.

“It’s okay, Wooyoung,” she replied simply. “I didn’t expect you to.”

This wasn’t what the patrons wanted to talk about. Men never spoke of such things.

“I should’ve,” he corrected her. “I want to know about you.”

The air burned for a moment between them, his dark eyes settled on her in the mirror with the pull that only gravity had on someone. There was more here. In these moments, it didn’t feel like a game or an agreement or a partnership of exchange. Not when he looked at her like that.

“So, you sew?” he asked, still closer than acceptable for their society. Pressed into her back, his arms trapping her in. He urged her to lean into him, his chest broad against her back.

“My mother is a seamstress – was. She’s now in a factory rather than an independent shop.” She admitted. “I learned from her.”

“What about your dad?” he asked.

She shook her head before going to pressing powder into her skin with a puff. He huffed a bit as the perfumed thing invaded his nose.

“Not around anymore.”

“What did he do? Did he leave some coin around for you and your ma’?” he asked.

YN sighed out, reaching for the rouge pot next. “Miner. There used to be diamond and gold mines outside of town. I mean, there still are, but they aren’t like they were before. He never found anything worth anything – and when there was a cave in,” she sighed again. “My mother had always provided more; he didn’t leave much. Except me…”

Wooyoung’s hand soothed up and down her arm

“I can’t remember my ‘ma or ‘pa. Doesn’t matter. Doesn’t define me. Don’t know much about them - if they sewed or worked at all. I just knew I had to work to survive.” He stated casually. “But Hongjoong, he’s like my brother - he sews in his free time. He’s made all sorts of things for us. So, I know a bit about that.”

Us… it was the first time Wooyoung had mentioned others. This was the first time she had learned anything about the mysterious man. YN itched to ask more about who us were, more about Hongjoong, more about what he had done growing up. How did he end up here, dripping in enough coin to go to countless shows, countless ballet boudoir meetings. But she didn’t know if she could. She didn’t want to pressure him. Push him.

“Maybe I’ll meet him one day?” she instead led, following his thought from moments ago. “Hongjoong and your hyungs?” she added. C’mon, tell me more, tell me more.

Wooyoung smiled bright, almost excitedly before his face fell dramatically. He was prone to that she’d noticed, ever expressive despite the stony gaze that fell over him when he didn’t know she was looking. His grin tumbled into a pout, big lips pressing out and puppy dog eyes gleaming in the gas-light.

He held her closer. “Not yet. I like having you to myself. They love the ballet – they’d love you.”

They. Us. Again, he spoke of others.

Who were they?

They’d love her?

-

In the third week, Wooyoung offered to buy her drinks from the Opera House’s bar, and she always refused. She didn’t want to fall into his arms intoxicated – especially with her aching muscles already. Alcohol wouldn’t help recovery. Instead, he made a game of bringing back a sweet from the concessions. Ones that the kids in the audience would nibble on. It’d always be half-eaten by the time he joined her in the boudoir – which made her smile. It felt intimate as she snacked on the other half of a cookie or taffy after the show. She’d sit on top of the vanity as he watched her eat.

It was during these times they began to talk about what they liked. Sweet or sour? Spicy or mild? What’s your favorite color? Hot or cold? What’s your favorite food? Favorite season? Favorite song?

She learned a lot about him. And he was sweet. His answers were sentimental as he yapped and yapped.

“I like seafood more than anything,” he said in between bites of the cookie she shared with him.

The boudoir was growing colder; the radiator had been turned off for the night. The hallway outside of the room was dim. She was in her own clothes for the first time; her costume hung in the costumier’s closet. Her worn-brown jacket was drawn tight as she and him sat on the vanity.

“Meat over vegetables for sure. But, any stew needs to have vegetables to feel right. But shrimp, mussels, clams, oh, tofu is needed too! Seonghwa makes the best stew – it reminds me of Aurora.”

He could ramble on and on, and YN didn’t mind it was so late as she made mental notes. Not just of the names he’d drop every now and then but his favorites. His preferences. She’d think about it as she made her own meals late at night – while she stood in front of the stove and stirred her potatoes and gravy. Was Aurora seafood better than Cromer’s? She’s only ever had the smallest of fish if they could afford one.

They were the last to leave the opera house that night, practically kicked out by the Madame who insisted upon the time. The moon hung high above them as they walked onto the main street of Cromer. The streetlights were lit; some flickered in the cold air; after all, not all lamps were gas yet. The cobblestones were wet with rain from earlier in the night.

“Let me walk you home?” Wooyoung asked. He was haloed in a gentle lamplight. His cheeks were round from eating the last of their shared treat and his eyes almost sparkled.

She swallowed. Don’t let them into your house; their house is the only fair game. She had heard the ballerinas warn her. Some even insisted on not letting them take you anywhere beyond the Opera House’s porch. There were plenty of spare rooms, they said.

Wooyoung was able to read her easier by the day.

“It’s late, YN. Please.” He insisted. “I’m a gentleman.”

His arm was offered, politely.

It was cold; rain was clinging to the clouds, tempting to pour.

He gave her another look, half-stern… half bratty? Wooyoung nudged his arm again in her direction.

“O—kay,” she conceded after a moment, taking his arm. He was warm against the cold.

But that was just Wooyoung after all.

-

“I saw YN walking home with her patron!” The gossip was electric the next morning.

“They’re in love,” Tiny swooned.

“They don’t know each other!” Another chimed.

“Did you—” there was a question on the tip of their tongues.

“Was he-“

“Had they-“

“No, no; he was a perfect gentleman,” YN reassured. “He stayed on the street as I entered my apartment. My mother had been watching from the windowsill. He simply waved and was off.”

Some of the ballerinas hummed their relief; others huffed their discontent.

“He’ll declare his patronage any day,” Julia whispered to her. “He has to.”

-

On the next Saturday, Wooyoung had ‘snuck’ in before the show. It was not often a patron was allowed before the show – it wasn’t as ‘exciting’ as intermission or after the show. The girls would be in their own clothes, usually warming up or trying to stay warm in the chilly room. His cheeks were flushed from the falling snow; he looked youthful as he bounded up to her, surprising her. Cold hands grasped hers as he spun her about.

Her hair was down. Her costume on, but her feet were in thick wool socks, and her face bare of makeup. It was a surprise he was here, and she felt the flare of insecurity, of worry, flush over her. He hadn’t seen her not so imperfect. Ballerinas were meant to be perfect. Wooyoung didn’t seem concerned as he lifted her into his arms to twirl her again as he chuckled and giggled. He sounded a bit like a hyena but it only made contagious giggles tumble from her own lips.

“Wooyoung,” she giggled nervously as he whirled them about.

All eyes watched her and him; some girls whispered in each other’s ears.

“Happy anniversary, pretty swan,” he chimed out as he finally set her back on the ground.

He looked at her with such innocent joy. His hands shifted from her form to cup her jaw and squeeze her cheeks. Over the past few weeks, his touchiness had grown. His favorite was to do just this, squish her cheeks fondly.

Dark eyes stroked over her features; her cheeks were pink beneath his fingers. Her eyes were bare of charcoal. Her lips were a nude shade. He noticed that despite his cold hands from the wintery outside that she was equally chilly… the entire boudoir felt cold at this time actually. A miniscule purse of his brow crinkled his forehead.

“Anniversary?” YN queried, raising a brow. Her hand rose to stroke the back of his hand softly, her blunt nails circling his skin.

The butterflies fluttered in her ribs, nibbling at her bones warningly. He was celebrating their anniversary? Had any patron done that? She’d have to ask the others.

He looked almost annoyed as if shocked she’d forget the day they met. The glower on his brow was handsome and statuesque before he frowned at her seriously. Her blood felt like fire, then; the skin on the back of her neck turned a clammy hot.

“It’s been a month,” he said, the words not as strict as his face. Instead, it sounded like a reprimanded child’s voice.

“Oh! I know that; I didn’t know you’d celebrate it,” she admitted, warm eared.

And she did. She hadn’t had a patron-suitor this long before but she kept count of the days. Noting them down with precision as she did with everything in her life.

He huffed; perfectly gelled hair fluttering with the action. Grumbling under his breath childishly of this and that, he took a too-close step into their embrace. His leg found a way between hers. He was so warm despite the melting snow on his outer coat.

“Of course I would,” he grumbled, thumbs going over the apples of her cheeks. “I’ve enjoyed getting to know you. I do like it! I assume you’d-”

He was babbling at this point, grumbling about this and that quickly. She giggled, and his frustrations eased at its sound.

“I’m sorry,” she replied, hand squeezing one of his hands gently. “I’ve liked getting to know you, too.”

And she had gotten to know him… somewhat. His favorite foods, books, art, and whatnot. She knew that he had moved here over the past month, that he liked the ballet but loved theatre more. Singing was his favorite thing. He had money. He had asked her far more about herself. He knew she’d lived here her entire life, practiced at the company for nearly just as long as she’s breathed. He knew about her family and her mother’s-tired rants after a day at the factory. He knew what treat she favored; he knew that she got cold easily. He still felt like a stranger despite their closeness. Like all she saw was what he wanted her to.

“Of course, you have,” he preened before stepping back.

His hands left her cheeks to present a small velveteen gift box, almost magically.

“Now, accept my gift, pretty.”

She awed at it, insisting he didn’t need to while equally feeling chuffed that he got her something. It was a small box, and her mind raced to think of what could be within. Jewels, diamonds, perhaps it was just a trick… or a treat. Whatever it was she felt a hum of excitement. With a fond look at him, she took the box and opened it.

A pretty pearl necklace rested on a crushed-velveteen cushion. Polished silver-white pearls. She had never had pearls before. Never seen them so up close. Only replica pearls made of melted plastic were what she knew. These had a different sheen, a prettiness to them that felt ethereal.

Pearls were expensive; pearls are things upper-class women wore in multiple loops across their bared throats to tempt their partners to glance down at their bosom. They are status-symbols. She would’ve never been able to afford these – not even just one pearl. Meanwhile, he had bought her a long, long strand, long enough she could wear it in multiple loops. They glimmered and shined in the lamp-light as she carefully reached out to graze their pearlescent surfaces.

“Woo,” she breathed out. “They’re beautiful.”

She hadn’t expected this sort of gift – especially after how little monetary incentive came from him. Her eyes rose from the gift to meet his eyes. They were watching her face with tenderness. His smile curled on his lips, and he couldn’t help the rumble of a fond chuckle from bubbling up in his chest.

“To match you,” he said, easily, before his fingers grazed hers to lift the necklace. “Turn around, baby.”

Baby… he hadn’t called her that yet – just as she hadn’t ever called him Woo. He noticed that and couldn’t help the thrum of excitement, puppy love, adoration, whatever you call it, go through his veins.

YN did turn. Her hair was pushed aside by now-warm hands. Frowning, he felt how icy her skin was; she shivered as the pearls caressed her bare skin. Carefully, he clasped the pearls about her throat ‘til they rested across her decolletage in a double string of pearls.

She stared into the vanity’s mirror. Wooyoung smiled over her shoulder, content as a cat as he watched her admire herself. He sighed, fingers rearranging her hair to rest around her attractively. His fingertips grazed her hair for the first time, fondly, and playfully as he tousled her strands. His hands landed on her shoulders; she was cold, cold, cold. His hands slid from her shoulders to her biceps slow.

“So beautiful,” he sighed. “The necklace looks good, too,” he teased as an afterword, close to her ear.

Her cheeks flushed. A hand rose to stroke over the gift admiringly.

“It is pretty, thank you,” she turned around in his embrace, his hands sliding over her shoulders as she did so. He cornered her to the table. Her hands rested on his forearms, thumb brushing over his coat. She wiped away at some fallen snow, melting on the rich fabric. Glancing up with a genuine smile, she asked him: “What shall I gift you?”

He hummed low. Fingers slid up her arms slowly, eyes grazing over her face thoughtfully. Before he proceeded to unbutton his fine-woven coat-jacket. Her breath caught. What was he doing? Her eyes flickered from him to the room around them. Many of the girls were watching them brazenly. Some with lovestruck eyes as if witnessing some penny film in the nickelodeon; some were looking with jealous-ridden eyes.

She licked her lips, a flash nervous as he shook off his jacket with ease to reveal a fine silk tunic. It was a dark color; she realized he had worn nothing but black each night. Like a night sky shining with starlit clouds, the fabrics clung to his frame temptingly. She glanced up to his face as he swooshed his jacket over her bared shoulders. 

It engulfed her in warmth, his warmth. The intoxicating smell she had begun to recognize as Wooyoung smothered her. The deep spiced-floral cologne filled her senses of him, him, him.

She couldn’t help but let out a jittery breath, not expecting this from him as he smiled down at her, satisfied. He didn’t do much more. She wasn’t sure what she was worried he was going to do in first place.

“Wear them for me during the performance?” he requested.

YN shifted her arms, a hand raising to touch the pearls around her throat again before her other hand rose to catch the coat from slipping off her shoulders. His own hands rose to rearrange the jacket over her, rubbing her arms up and down slowly.

That was all he asked for? Even now, she knew other patrons would request far more. A kiss even wouldn’t have surprised her to be honest – he could’ve stolen one from her lips and not a person would’ve batted an eye in the boudoir. Instead, he warmed her, thumb grazing up and down her now-jacketed arm.

“I will,” she acquiesced. “The Madame might be upset at the costume violation,” she teased lightly. “But, I will do it for you.”

He laughed, the thing a crow-like tone. He hadn’t shifted from her, hands rubbing up and down still. “If she does, I’ll handle it. A pretty girl like you deserves pretty things. And to show off those pretty things.”

She smiled at him. She shocked herself as she rose up onto the tips of her toes, easily with her experience on-pointe, and pressed a sweet fleeting kiss to his cheek. She could smell his after-shave; his skin was soft and warm and inviting before she pulled away to smile up at him.

“Happy month of knowing you, Wooyoung.”

“Here’s to many more,” he smiled warmly.

-

The pearls clung to her neck tightly, tighter than how Wooyoung had clasped them. They needed to be so they wouldn’t clank and clink into her face with each pirouette and jete. She stood out in the ensemble with the pearls gleaming on her throat. No other ballerina bore real pearls except her. No one – not even Odette. And for once, she felt the eyes of the crowd on her. There was a murmur in the crowd; some pointed. But all she could do was search for Wooyoung’s eyes. 

She had a bad habit of looking up at Box 8 in general now. Her gaze would flicker up and up, head tilting as she snuck small glances towards the private box Wooyoung had claimed. Usually, she’d catch his eyes, staring at her solely and smiling a small smirk in the shadows of the theatre.

But it wasn’t just him today. In the shadows of the theatre, she could see his familiar form, his opera glasses glinting in the low gas light of the grand chandelier. But behind him, dark blurs of shades, were other figures. She squinted.

It shocked her at first, doing a double take as she performed a jete.

What? Who?

There were others with him; he turned to say something to the one beside him.

It surprised her that she knew the form of him so well to know even in darkness and distance that he sat in the front. But she knew in her core as the figure turned back to look at the stage. Wooyoung sat in the front in his usual spot. A figure sat beside him, shadowed in a brimmed hat. And one, or was it two, figures shifted behind him.

When she left the stage, she remained waiting in the wings, peering and squinting at his box.

“He has guests,” an older ballerina whispered in her ear, startling her.

“Is there a woman?” she whispered back, trying to get a good sense of the forms.

It looked like ghosts behind him, two…or maybe three shifting figures. She saw one lean forward and cup a large looking hand against Wooyoung’s ear. Glinting rings winked at her, taunting her as fingers hid the stranger’s face from view.

“That one looks like a man,” the same ballerina advised to her.

They both squinted as a reflection from the Odette’s glamourized costume glared into their eyes. Looking away, YN rubbed her eyes before looking back at the box. It looked like only three figures now.

“What of the other… others?” she asked.

“I can’t see.”

“Neither can I.”

All she knew was Wooyoung was not alone.

-

She tried asking about as they waited for the next cue – was there men? Was there women? What can you see? But when they crept onstage once more for their small promenade across the stage as a ‘flock’ of swans, her stomach dropped.

Box 8 was empty.

-

He didn’t come visit during intermission, and she felt uneasy. Had he left? Why? A childish part of her cried out it was their anniversary. Her fingers fiddled with her pearls. The Madame glared at her addition as she passed the large open doors of the boudoir but said nothing.

-

He didn’t come after the show either.

-

When she crept out of the Opera House, her pearls were hidden beneath a coat. And there was no sight of Wooyoung outside. A fragile thing in her heart peeked out and she swallowed down the disappointment as she began her walk home in the cold snow.

Why had he left? He left mid-show with his friends? It burned despite the chill.

-

The next day, YN felt nerves eating up her stomach. She was a creature of habit, a person of rehearsals and repetition. Why hadn’t he shown? Why did he leave? Was he unhappy she hadn’t gotten him something? Was it due to the kiss? Was she too forward? Was he unhappy with her? He had never not shown up to the boudoir after a show. He had never left during a show, and he’d seen the show countless times now.

YN had arrived early to the boudoir, hoping to practice away her worries. Clad in her warmest clothes, she began to warm up on the floor.  She only got so far when she heard a voice.

“YN!”

It was Tiny. Her footsteps were a flurry of tip-tap-tapping as she rushed towards her. “YN!”

The little one hadn’t changed into her costume yet, wearing a dark brown skirt and matching orange blouse. A hooded cape kept her warm.

“He’s one of the new bachelors! He’s one of the bachelors!” the young girl cried out in excitement as she charged into the room. Her giggles were light and fluttery as she bounced on her toes. “The ones who have taken over the Ateez Mansion. He’s one of them! He’s one of them!”

“What?” She paused in her movements.

“Your patron! Your patron! It’s in the paper! Remember his box had more folk last night, right? It was the other bachelors!” she squealed. “I heard from the newsie! ‘Kim Yeosang, the finest tennis player this side of the Atiny Sea, spotted at the grand Cromer Opera House last night accompanied by frequent ballet goer Kim Wooyoung and others. This is the athlete’s first public appearance in Cromer since his move into the famed Ateez Mansion.’”

“Kim?” she queried.

Wooyoung had introduced himself by Jung Wooyoung.

“Maybe they’re brothers!” Tiny exclaimed. “An athlete, YN! He must be fit. And handsome!”

“And rich,” another ballerina commented from across the boudoir.

YN was still confused. “He’s never mentioned brothers – I mean, he mentioned he had friends that were like his brothers. But the only name I’ve heard has been Hongjoong… Seonghwa.”

Tiny repeated the names curiously. “I didn’t hear the newsies say those names. Just Yeosang and Wooyoung! Maybe it’s in the paper. Do you have 5 coins?”

5 coins! It made her splutter. When did she have money to toss at papers?

“No,” she laughed.

“Well, I just thought with the necklace and all – he hasn’t paid anything?” Tiny gossiped.

Her cheeks flushed as she shoved the tiny ballerina away. “Not yet.”

Her hand self-consciously fiddled with the pearl necklace. Kim Wooyoung. It felt weird to think rather than Jung Wooyoung. And, Kim Yeosang, she wondered. She hadn’t heard the name but she wasn’t privy to most sports. Who had time for sportly leisure in this age – especially as a trained ballerina? But a world-known tennis player… it made sense how he’d have money. Why move here? Sure, it was a major port, crawling with trade, but it was just Cromer.

Hongjoong. Seonghwa Yeosang. Wooyoung.

Who were they to Wooyoung?

Were they here last night? Were they the reason he left without even a note of warning?

-

That night he didn’t appear in his box. There was gossip amongst the girls.

“Maybe it was too good to be true.” A dancer taunted

YN. Jealous and envy were bitter dregs of ballet society.

She found herself playing with his necklace more and more.

-

“Miss YN, if you continue to fiddle with that god-forsaken necklace on stage, I’ll rip it off your neck myself.” The Madame croaked, her cane thudding against the floor during their debrief of the latest performance.

“Sorry,” YN managed to get out.

“Sorry doesn’t fix mistakes. Which you’ve been making. Your pirouettes were sloppy all evening; improve or else I shall remove you from the scene.” Her words went in one ear and out the other. Like they had all night. She was just in her head.

She had thought it was different between them – why had he given the cold shoulder? Was it the cold shoulder? She wasn’t sure. Weren’t things fine between them? He had gifted her pearls for goodness sake.

When had she begun to care about the relationship? YN had never cared for her patron-suitors but… she did like Wooyoung. Had she disappointed him? Had his guests warned him away?

She licked her lips, barely hearing the criticism pouring out of the mouth of the Madame of the Opera House.

-

The next day at intermission, there was a white-papered note on her vanity. Bounding up to it excitedly, hope in her stomach, she unfolded it to reveal the too-neat cursive script of the Madame.

‘Remove the necklace or face a fee for costume violations.’

Her necklace was gone the next act. She couldn’t face any more costs.

-

It was two weeks before she’d see Wooyoung again.

When he did return to the Opera House, it was done in a Wooyoung style. Rather than waiting until intermission, he strode through the boudoir’s door with the confidence of someone who owned the place like he had on their ‘anniversary’. YN was by the vanity per usual; make up caked on her face and her neck bare.

“Hello, pretty swanette,” he greeted, his arms wrapping around her waist in an embrace. The scent of him hit her like a train – she hadn’t realized she missed it. Missed him. Her jaw tightened in annoyance.

No, she didn’t want to miss him. He was the one disappearing like a ghost. No wonder he stayed at the Ateez Mansion; he fits right in with the phantom stories there. Her lips were stern as she painted on her rouge with a fine-precision brush. She tried to not to make eye contact with him, tried to not to seek out what he looked like tonight. Were his cheeks rose-flushed from the cold? Was he wearing the silken tunic or a warmer velvet?

“Swanette,” he repeated, shifting her in his arms. Swaying her softly.

Her head tilted; her face twitched as she placed the brush down and grabbed the coal-eyeliner pot.

“Oooh,” Wooyoung cooed out. Minty breath fanned over her neck. “You missed me.”

His voice wasn’t pleading or angry or upset. In fact, it was almost giddy. He took pleasure in her displeasure. It wasn’t like she was giving him attention – or perhaps the lack of attention was so obvious, it was simply attention all over again. Intentionally ignoring someone meant they were on your mind. He was on her mind. She wondered for a moment was he like her – searching for the spotlight.

She finished applying her eyeliner as she felt his lips almost touch her bared shoulder. Her jitter was clear and he chuckled. Dark eyes watched from over her shoulder.

“Your necklace is gone.” He commented, pouting. Long fingers tickled at her neck, as if the pearls were simply invisible around the column of it.

No reply as she placed the make-up down, shifting in his tight embrace but never leaving it, never breaking the bond of his arm around her midsection. He smiled at that. So, for a moment, he simply laid his chin on her shoulder – waiting. He was an optimistic man and, even if she was frustrated, she didn’t pull away from him.

“Your left brow twitches,” he noted casually after a while, making her brow furrow.

“When you’re angry.” He clarified.

“How do you know that?” she countered, breaking her silence with a bite.

He smiled at her words. He got her to talk.

“I know you, swanette – which is how I know you are upset with me. I’m sorry I was gone.” He apologized.

She swallowed and glanced to the side. It was silly to be angry at him. He’s just--- a man. A rich boy with too much money to flaunt. This entire situation was stupid. She never pined after a man, after a stupid patron, too. She focused on her work not men. When had seeing him made her so… excited? And when had not seeing him ruin her day?

His pout came into view as he reached out to tip her chin his way.

“What else, hm?” he urged, thumb petting at her chin. “I was gone for days unannounced but what else could be making you distant?” He sighed, searching her eyes. “Was your necklace not pretty enough? Were the girls cruel? Were-“

“You had guests that Saturday.”

His eyes sparkled at that almost like the gleam of ice in a whiskey glass. He smirked. “Yes, I wanted them to see you.”

“They - you didn’t come to the boudoir.” She followed up her statement, shifting her head from his grasp.

He paused before like a cat prowling his gaze fell into a lazy leer. “Is that why you’re upset with me?” he crooned.

“I’m not—”

“Don’t.” he cut her off, sharp but not cruel. There was a jingle of a singsong in his next words. “You were jealous.”

Now, that made her splutter. “I was not jealous!” she turned around to face him fully. “You left before intermission and then stayed away. I saw you whispering to them!”

“You didn’t like someone stealing me away from you,” Wooyoung continued, smirk on his lips.

“You’re being ridiculous,” she accused him. He was acting like he was the one being courted after not herself. “I-I just wanted—”

“You wanted to meet them, hm?” he swept in a step to wrap an arm about her waist. It was strangely comforting despite their conversation taking a bubbling turn. Almost as if he was reassuring her with his closeness. “Wanted me to show you off?”

She grimaced, not meeting his eyes. Did she? Over the weeks, she had felt a lot, conflicting and confusing.

“I got your hopes up, hm?” he continued to tease.

“Are they your brothers?” she countered, seriousness to his teasing. “Hongjoong? Yeosang? Seonghwa?”

“I told you I don’t know my family, no brothers to my name,” Wooyoung replied easily.

“Your name maybe, but what is your name? Mr. Kim Wooyoung?” she said, raising a brow. Wooyoung’s tongue licked over his teeth as a low bittered rumble of a chuckle built. “Or is it Mr. Jung Wooyoung?”

“Jung Wooyoung to you,” he hummed. “Hongjoong and Seonghwa got me out of a tight spot. Yeosang is like my brother; I trust him like one. You remember a lot, don’t you, swanette?”

She nodded tentatively. It didn’t answer her burning questions of why were they there with him and why did he give her a false last name or did the papers have the wrong one?

“He said you were the prettiest there. He had wanted to meet you – I wanted to show you off, swanette.” Wooyoung reassured.

“Why didn’t you?” it sounded of a whine and her cheeks burned in humiliation. Why did she want him? Was she so used to his praise and attention?

Thumbs went up and down her sides reassuringly. “We got pulled away, is all. It wasn’t intentional. I had wanted them to meet you. I swear it.”

Wooyoung was a charmer, she knew this. But his words tasted so sweet, so honey-sweet. It was hard to question him when it felt real.

“You didn’t mean to leave?” she asked, feeling foolish. Foolish for wanting to know, foolish for asking, foolish for caring at all.

“No,” he laughed out. “Trust me, I’d rather spend time with you than what I got caught up in.”

There was a pause as she took in his face. He had a faint cut over his brow, covered by his perfectly styled hair. Her eyes fell back to meet his gaze.

“Say you missed me?” he encouraged, leaning forward with a smirk. “It’s been weeks; you had to miss me?”

Was this a game? Was this the way patronage felt? A tug back and forth between enjoying their presence while being dreadfully aware that this was all paid pretty folly for them.

“I missed you,” he said when she took a moment too long.

Another beat hung in the air as she pressed her lips together, trying to decipher her confused emotions. There was just one emotion she could figure out.

“I missed you, Wooyoung.”

-

“What happened to your pretty pearl necklace?” He asked later that night. Their tension had eased only a smidge. He sat on the corner of the vanity; multiple treats sat beside him on a silver platter. An apology he said. It had all of her favorites.

“Madame requested I no longer wear it. I’d receive a fee to my costs.”

He scoffed. “Stupid. I’ll talk to her.”

“She won’t take to talking,” she laughed. “She’s the worst woman I’ve ever met.”

“Does she give you a hard time?” he queried.

YN nodded her head as she took a bite out of brownie.

“She’s always disliked me,” she admitted. “I wasn’t as dedicated to dance when I was young. I liked reading and wanted to go to school like the rich girls in the audience. Madame thought I was disobedient.”

“You were just carving your way,” he said.

She shrugged as she offered the other half of the brownie to Wooyoung. He took a nibble, his mouth forming over her own bite.

“I’ll pay the fee,” he said softly after a moment. “Wear it tomorrow.”

He reached up to tuck a strand of her free hair behind her ear.

-

There was someone with him once more. Box #8 looked cramped with Wooyoung and this mysterious man sitting side by side. Throughout the entire act, all she could see was them. Wooyoung grinning and whispering to the mystery man.

Waiting in the boudoir, the pearl necklace around her neck felt hot, like it was on fire. When Wooyoung bounded inside, he looked ecstatic. 

“I brought someone to see you,” Wooyoung revealed in a false whisper, the tone muddled loud with excitement like a child keeping a secret. “I told you I wanted to show you off.”

His hands squeezed hers before with a flourish he spun her around. Hands leaving hers only to find home on her waist. Holding her steady as she was faced with the broad chest of a suited man. Fine fabric draped over his form, tailored from his large shoulders to his lean waist. Spectacles rested on the bridge of his nose, a gleam over his eyes. His hair neatly gelled back into a pompadour.

“Swanette,” Wooyoung’s timbre of a voice was close to her ear; so close, that he could smell her perfume, her hairspray, her hair gel – all aromas that made up the blossoming scent that was uniquely her. Intoxicating. His breath kissed her skin and made her shiver. She could feel the pearly white of his teeth smile against her. “YN, this is San.”

San smiled a smirk down at the dancer, his amber brown eyes flickering to look at Wooyoung. Approval burned in his eyes, and Wooyoung’s grin grew.

San’s hands weren’t large or imposing like his form as he reached for her hand. With gentleness, he clasped her hand and raised it to his mouth. The cat-like smirk didn’t fade even as he pressed a short kiss to her knuckles.

“Miss Y/N, Wooyoung has spoken so much about you,” San’s voice was lower than Wooyoung’s, and it held a honey sweet tone. He hadn’t let go of her hand. “You are a beautiful, talented dancer.”

“Thank you,” she shook his hand softly. “I appreciate your kind words. And it’s nice to meet one of Wooyoung’s friends.”

Wooyoung’s chest rumbled against her back. He squeezed her hips, fingering the place where the beads of her bodice meet her tutu.

“Sannie is my best friend,” he whispered close to her ear. “And he isn’t a kind-worded man; you must’ve really wooed him, swanette.”

San rolled his eyes, hearing Wooyoung’s words. His fingers twitched in her grasp before he let go of her hand carefully.

“Don’t slander me.” He warned before his eyes settled back fondly on her. “I’m a very nice person, little bird.”

“I’m glad to hear it,” she replied. “How do you know Woo – did you grow up in Aurora?”

San’s face twitched at the mention of Wooyoung’s previous hometown. “I’ve known Wooyoung since we were tots.” he said, agreeing.

“Do you stay at the Ateez Mansion as well?” she queried.

San nodded. “I do.”

“He likes to decorate the place. He like shiny things.” Wooyoung added, half nuzzling into her shoulder.

“And he likes to blab, if you haven’t noticed,” San countered. “I thought this was time for me to meet the woman you couldn’t shut up about?”

Wooyoung’s hands rose off of her waist in defense at his friend. A curling smirk on his lips, teasing… bratty.

“Excuse me,” he snarked. “I’ll leave you two to it then.”

He stepped away, making her turn to glance at Wooyoung. His face looked serious but there was the air of teasing that Wooyoung just had. His dark eyes shifted from his friend to her with a cat-like slowness.

“I’ll be back,” he pressed a quick kiss to her temple, surprising her.

Her heart jumped and stuttered. He had never done that before. Her ears turned bright red to rival her rouge lipstick.

San smiled at her, his first true smile. It wasn’t curling or seductive but boyish. A grin that made his eyes shut and his nose scrunch. A soft laugh rumbled from his chest. He eyed her with that same grin as she rubbed her temple where his lips had touched, shocked.

She looked after Wooyoung as he scurried away, a rhythm to his steps. His hands tucked cooly into his jacket. If he had been facing her, she’d see the coy grin, boyishly spread on his face. Maybe a cocked eyebrow.

“He’s affectionate,” San revealed. “I’m surprised he hadn’t stolen a kiss yet.”

“He’s a gentleman,” she defended, blushing.

“Gentleman, huh?” the broad-shouldered man repeated with a lilting brow.  He glanced towards the multi-storied doors that he just passed through.

“As much as a man can be while spending money for the boudoir,” she commented. She blinked once and then twice. “I mean— all the men here are gentlemen. . . “ Her laugh was awkward, fumbling.

Perhaps the kiss shook her up a bit too much or YN was surprisingly too comfortable around San already – loose lipped enough to break the allusion of the foyer de la danse. There was a pause before he leaned in. She leaned away out of instinct, hands and form pressing backwards into the vanity. San’s smile hadn’t shifted from his lips nor did the playful grin change to anything offended. He kept her trapped there.

“I don’t know much about this opera or ballet shit,” San admitted, his voice bashful despite his profanity as he pushed his glasses up the bridge of his nose. “While my household have plenty of enthusiasts... I’m a bit of a novice at this, Miss YN.”

It was charming his confidence in not knowing. It was also charming how he covered for her insult, shifting the attention.

“I see,” she murmured. 

“This is all new to me,” he glanced this way and that at the room. “Wooyo had said he had befriended the prettiest dancer, not that he came to this. What is this place?”

He didn’t sound cruel or tricking. He sounded curious if anything. He leaned forward on the vanity, one arm pressing into the wood to hold his weight as he leaned in close. It reminded her of when she and Wooyoung met. The closeness, the intimacy, the magnetic energy. She thought it was strange to have it with one person, let alone two, but here they were.  

She licked her lips as she ghosted after his gaze around the room. The boudoir in front of her looked like its own scene out of an opera or play. Every girl in their spot; every patron a leading role in their own fantasy.

“Ballet is costly, Mr. San,” she started, her tone low and quiet. He hummed in response.

“These gentlemen-” she continued her post-humous correction through gritted teeth. She saw one of the regular patrons slide a hand over a ballerina’s thigh lower and lower. YN scowled, looking away for the benefit of the girl. “-pay. They pay to see us up close, to talk to us. Our time is theirs.”

“And?” he continued, tearing his eyes away from another patron and his ballerina.

“And anything else they want is theirs,” she managed to get out.

San frowned before spotting Wooyoung returning from where-ever he had ran off to, now carrying back three glasses. One was precariously balanced in between his ring-covered knuckles as he hurried back with careful steps.

“Hello, love birds,” he called, raising his brows playfully. His eyes darted at the closeness between the two of them. San shifted politely away from her.

“Love bird?” he repeated to his friend. “Says the peacock fluffing its feathers.”

Wooyoung crowed out a laugh. It caught the attention of a few ballerinas.

“I’ll take that. I’m handsome.” He flipped his head back to push away his hair that has swung in front of his eyes.

San’s smile returned with ease as he swooped in to grasp one of the glasses before anything more spilled to the wood planks below.

“Swanette?” Wooyoung offered one of the glasses her way. In the glass was no amber liquid but water? She raised it to her nose and sniffed suspiciously.

“It’s just water, baby-doll,” the smaller man reassured.

“She’s a smart one,” San commented.

He smiled politely before taking a sip of his drink. His actions were slow around her she noticed. Or maybe Wooyoung was so high-energy that his friend felt slower in comparison. He moved with intention. Careful. Concise. 

“What were you chatting about?”

“Nothing.” They both said at the same time.

“Intriguing,” Wooyoung countered before smiling wide.

He looked so happy. His smile was so comfortable and yet beaming. She didn’t know it but she was matching the look on her own face. San glanced between them, fondness crinkling his eyes. He cleared his throat.

“Miss YN was just explaining the boudoir to me.” He repeated.

“Boudoir… isn’t this the foyer de la danse?” Wooyoung queried.

“Nickname,” she tried to reassure.

“And what did she say?”

“It’s a whore house,” San said cooly, taking a sip.

Her face flushed at that. “No, I did not!” she exclaimed. Wooyoung glanced between them, amused.

“She wouldn’t have,” he snorted in agreement. “She’s a lady.”

“Its essentially what she said,” San sighed out, raising a brow at his friend.

There was a long moment between the two men before the smaller man looked to her. Wooyoung glanced her up and down.

“Is that true?” he whispered. Concern flashed in his eyes.

“Woo, I – “ she glanced aside, anxiety tumbling. Like theatre, the façade of the boudoir worked only when there were the illusions in place. But now Wooyoung’s careful concerned gaze made her feel like something was wrong. Trouble. Like the theatre was aflame. Like something was changing. “I’ve never- Wooyoung has been my first patron.”

“I’m your patron?” he bumbled out, brows pursing.

Had he thought… they were something else? San had called her his friend. The woman he wouldn’t stop talking about.

She nodded nervously.

“I thought so – you hadn’t paid but the necklace, the treats, everything-“

“Swanette-“ he started, talking over her as he took a step forward. But she didn’t have another chance to voice her words. San’s arm curled over Wooyoung’s shoulder.

“It’s a good thing we’re her patrons,” San insisted. “Patrons like them-” he glanced around at the men in the foyer de la danse with disdain, taking a protective step forward as well. “-aren’t to be trusted.”

YN was shielded from the boudoir in that moment. Like a bird caged in, but was she truly caught? Or was she in the warm embrace of a nest?

San looked at Wooyoung with a little nod, and, with that, the shorter smiled.

San grinned at her, and it sent a zing up her spine, electric.

“I’ve got you, honey. We’ve got you.”

And YN believed them that night.

-

In the dark of another night, her eyes flickered open. She wasn’t in the expensive automobile, nor cradled in Seonghwa’s arms. The last thing she remembered was the gentle rise and fall of his chest and the smell of everything that made Seonghwa Seonghwa. Bittered ground coffee beans, warm vanilla, and a hint of something deeper, something like burnt florals. Elegant and strict-cut like him. How many nights had she spent consumed by that scent in his sheets?

Now, she felt a strange conflicted fondness for his scent. It comforted her as much as it made her stomach churn. A bittersweet situation.

Even now as she blinked her crusty eyes, YN sought it out. Sought him out. It itched at her anger. He wasn’t safe now. Were any of them?

She went to move, push off the too-warm sheets from her form. The room crackled with a lit fire-place; the smell of smoke was heady in the air. She could barely move. Her body didn’t hurt, but her limbs felt slow and sticky like she was submerged in honey, melting into molasses. With a small whine, she shifted under the luxurious covers of the bed restlessly, rustling them as she tried to push herself up.

“Be careful, sweetheart,” a voice rumbled out.

Her bleary eyes shifted to look around the room. Ah, of course, it wasn’t her room. Her sheets were never so heavied. Her fire-place wasn’t ever lit. He stood in front of the flames, a pick prodding at the logs.

Her face sturdied, frowning at him as she tried to move again.

“Don’t move too quickly, sweetheart,” he sounded soft as he put back the pick and approached the fluffed bed.

“Are you in pain?” the man asked, kneeling beside her.

He smiled fondly at her, a hand going to wipe hair out of her face. She wanted to turn away from the love written over his face. Her numb legs reminded her of what had happened. It hadn’t been a nightmare.

“Don’t touch me,” she mumbled, blearily.

“Are you in pain?” he pressed again.

He petted her hair back, tucking it behind her ears. She felt coddled like a pet. Her brow twitched.

“I can get Yunho; the doctor promised him that he gave you enough medicine that you wouldn’t feel a thing until tomorrow’s check-up. If you are –” the man chuckled lowly. “He’ll have hell to pay.”

She glared. The mention of doctors, of Yunho, of everything made the flickers of her rage burn.

“Yeosang, stop,” she bit out. The haze of sleep was fading and as she took deep breaths of the smokey air she felt her anger grow.

His smile faded for a moment at her abrupt command. He licked his lips as his hands mother-henned about her. Fixing the covers to lay lower, fluffing a pillow. She wanted to wiggle away.

“Yeosang!” she snapped again as he continued to fuss.

“YN.” His voice rumbled out warningly.

There were footsteps outside his door. He glanced towards it before, with a deep sigh, he shook his head.

“I know you’re upset.” Yeosang sympathized softly. His hands slid from the comforters to rearrange her hands to rest on her stomach. His fingers intertwined with hers. “But you don’t need to be hurting on top of that. So, I’m going to ask again – are you in pain?”

She glared at him. Why did he have to look at her with such softness? Such devotion. Did he plot her injury? Did he know? No, for some reason, she felt like Yeosang couldn’t manage such cruelty – even if he was cruel on the court. And there was the glaring obvious fact that he hadn’t been in the mansion for some days.

“YN,” he pushed again.

“No,” she admitted.

Her gaze fell to their interlocked hands. His thumb brushed soothing circles and the occasional ‘x’ across the back of her hand. He smiled, small and kind. Relieved, she realized.

“Good,” he breathed before he leaned forward to press a warm kiss to the back of knuckles.

Her fingers twitched. He didn’t move after the kiss. His chin rested there on her stomach as he stared up at her. Yeosang always held this reverence, similar to Wooyoung. Eyes of devotion she used to think, but unlike Wooyoung’s playful gleam, Yeosang’s had a look to his eyes. Of seriousness. It wasn’t a darkness, no, his eyes were the most honeyed-ambered of the bunch, soft and gleaming like a fire-place’s embers. There was no humor, no teasing, when it came to her. Steadfast, knowing.

He breathed in her skin, lips hot against her skin.

“Why are you here?” she asked after a moment.

He frowned at her, head unmoving.

“You were away on business – you had been gone for days,” she continued. “And now you are just back?”

“I heard what happened to you, sweetheart,” he offered. “I had to come back.”

“How did you hear? It’s only been hours – no letters could reach you that quick.” She retorted.

Yeosang’s smiled against her knuckles. “I had a feeling.”

It felt like he was painting an ‘x’ on a treasure map – all pointing to the fact that she was right. They had done something – they had known something; they had planned this. Her own lovers. The same men who had made her melt into the idea that she was safe with them.  

She scoffed and, with the little energy she had, she pushed his cheek away from her. It didn’t do much. How much pain medication was she on to be so weak, so drowsy?

“Seonghwa had mentioned you were upset, but not this upset,” he pouted as if she had slapped him.

“How would you handle this, Yeosang?” she bit back. “If someone had broken your arms? Your wrists?”

He’d understand; he had to understand. He was dedicated to his sport; the fearsome Kim Yeosang. Awarded countless first-places and countless prizes for his talent on the court. But instead, she saw this sadness flood his gaze. Not tears, no, he never cried.

Yeosang’s hand rose to stroke her cheek with a gentle forefinger. Far too gentle compared to the harsh words, he spoke next.

“I would have never tried to leave, sweetheart. I know better; I wouldn’t have tried it ever.”

[missgraylock]

North and South: Beginnings - Prologue and Chapter 1: A Wolf in the Woods

Summary: A fragile peace has settled between North and South of the border. You and your cousin live a quiet life on a secluded farm, attempting to hide both your omega status and your origins. After a faithful meeting everything is about to change, and your past hunts you down. But in your time of need, someone aids you from the shadows.

"North and South: Beginnings" is an omegaverse tale in a medieval setting, where our ensemble will experience plenty of fluff, angst and very steamy moments. Ateez is the main focus here, with Seventeen as their allies. Stray Kids is the enemy, but this is a fictional work that doesn't reflect the real life persons in any way (love you SKZ).

This is my first long fic and English isn't my first language, so bear with me. This work is not proof read. I have a goal to post at least one chapter a week, and it's going to be a long story. Buckle in!

pairing: reader x non-idol! San, reader x most of Ateez for the smut tbh genre: romance, smut, angst, A/B/O, omegaverse, AU chapter: 1 of many, word count is 2361 for this chapter rating: 18+ minors dni warnings for this series: dom! san, unprotected sex (don't do this), oral sex (both receiving) fingering, group sex, breeding kink, pet names (good girl, pretty, etc.), lots of gratuitous smut, violence and blood. divider by: @cafekitsune

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Prologue - The Escape

South of the border, 15 years ago

A mature alpha sits at the end of a long table. His gray, thick hair elegantly swooped back. He has an intense and demanding gaze on the sunken shape further down the table. 

Mr. Min, with his shoulders sloped slightly, struggles to keep his eyes on the intimidating presence. 

“It’s a real shame to see the state of the once great Min clan, but there’s fortunately things that can be done to aid you on your path back to greatness”.

Mr. Min’s eyes widen slightly, though he’s prepared for what’s to come. 

“You have a young granddaughter? Whose mother was an omega?” The alpha states. It’s not really a question.

Mr. Min nods, a pang of sorrow in his chest. “I do, she’s only 6 years old”.

The alpha dons a small smirk. “In an exchange to cover your debts, I want her betrothed to my son, Christopher. They shall marry when they have presented and are at an appropriate age, but she must present as an omega. Naturally.” He says coolly. 

Mr. Min is not surprised by the Bahng clan leader’s demand. The Min clan, once prosperous and known to be a clan of exceptionally beautiful and capable individuals, fell into despair after the clan conflicts between the North and the South. 

As the clan leader, Mr. Min could not handle the loss of several of their pack members during the all out war, which happened through majorly bad luck. It hit him especially hard to lose his only child, Nara. 

He ended up drinking and gambling away most of their fortune, and he was currently finding himself in a very tough spot. He was one of the few remaining in the clan, including his grand niece Leliana and granddaughter [Y/N], who were both in his care.

At this point, all he wanted was security for the girls. No more goons knocking on their door late at night, demanding payments and making threats. If the girls got married into prosperous families, they would at least have stability and food on the table. 

He knew that the Bahng clan was infamous for their brutality, especially towards their omegas, but he tried to push the thought away to the back of his mind. Maybe Christopher would grow up to be kinder than his father and the other alphas in their clan. The chances were slim. 

Mr. Min folded his hands and nodded to Mr. Bahng. “They’re still so young, but if this is what it takes for us to finally have peace, then so it must be”. 

---------

“Are you out of your mind?” Leliana yelled at her grandfather. Mr. Min stood with his back against the wooden door of their humble abode. 

“Leliana, please I-” He couldn’t finish his sentence as a stale loaf of bread flew through the air, barely dodging his face.

“You know how they treat their omegas. They keep them confined and beaten. Forced to have litter after litter”. Tears of rage were streaming down Leliana’s face. She could not accept this life for her younger cousin. 

Mr. Min tried to explain how it would help them all in the long run. How the clan could slowly but surely rise back to greatness. She could tell that he tried to close his eyes to the sacrifice that he had made for what he called “the greater good”. She stormed up the stairs to the little bedroom where [Y/N] was half asleep.

“Leli, I’m having a bad dream”. [Y/N] stretched her arms up to Leliana as she crawled into their narrow bed. “I know pup, it was just me and grandpa disagreeing about something, it’s going to be ok”. [Y/N] sighed and fell shortly back to sleep, but Leliana’s mind was racing. 

She muttered to herself “a blanket, matchsticks, a knife, wool socks and a scarf, what else?”. 

She knew what she had to do at sunrise. 

---------

Chapter 1 - A Wolf in the Woods

Along the border, present day

You’re struck by something inconvenient

You pull the covers underneath your chin, watching your cold breath hit the sunlight creeping through the window. “Can you tell me about true mates again Leli”? 

Your cousin looks at you with a smirk. “Of course, lover girl” she says teasingly. You feel a slight blush in your cheeks. 

Leliana clears her throat. “Sometimes, when an alpha meets an omega, they can sense a bond through each other’s scents that goes even deeper than what regular mates have. It’s the bond of true mates. They will gravitate towards each other like the Moon to the Earth, creating an immensely supportive and loving bond, and a rock solid foundation for a thriving pack”. 

You feel a tingle in your chest. Just the thought of meeting an alpha scared the living daylights out of you, but you couldn’t suppress your curiosity. 

Both your “aunt” and “uncle”, the beta couple that took you and Leliana in during a blizzard 15 years ago, continuously warned you both about the dangers of alphas. Especially seeing as you both had presented as omegas. 

You tried to reassure them that you would never let an alpha near you, but you still felt a sting of longing after the unknown, with only Leliana’s stories to soothe you. In an attempt to stay hidden, you both rarely saw other humans. 

You spent most of your time as milkmaids in the remote mountains on the border, only occasionally running into traveling merchants or vagabonds. 

Your aunt and uncle never had the children they so dearly wished for, and felt blessed the night you two stumbled onto their deck. 

As you both reached your teens and presented, a new anxiety rose for the couple. How could they protect someone as rare and valuable as you were, from the clans that were willing to use violence to catch omegas. 

Omegas were not only exceedingly rare, but both you and your cousin grew up to be stunningly beautiful, a trait that apparently ran in your families. 

To ease their anxieties somewhat, you choose to wear collars that would cover up your mating patches. If, god forbid, any alphas caught your scent and chased  you down, they would have an extra obstacle if they tried to force a mating mark on your necks. 

If you saw someone approaching as you were out herding the goats, you would carefully wrap your shawls to cover more of your faces, making it harder for the strangers to catch the beauty underneath. 

Being an omega felt like so much of a burden. All the fear and the precautions that followed with it were tiresome, and you wondered if you’d ever make peace with it all.

“Enough daydreaming, we need to get to work little one”. Leliana rose from the bed, stretching her hand down to yours. You took it and lifted yourself up with a grunt. 

You covered up in a brown pinafore dress, donning extra thick woollen socks as it was still a lingering winter outside. Leliana boiled water in the kettle over the soothing fire, as you found two cups and tea leaves. 

Your breakfast this morning was a delicious sourdough loaf, goat cheese and jam - all made by your aunt. 

Even though you should be really hungry, you felt rather nauseous this morning. “You ok?” Leliana asked, furring her brows.

“Yeah, I probably just need to get moving and let my body wake up properly”. You used your sleeve to wipe the cold sweat off of your forehead.

After finishing your tea and meal, you wrapped huge scarves around each other's necks, laughing at the inelegance of layers upon layers of winter clothing, constricting you slightly. 

You stepped into the sunny but snow covered yard. It was a beautiful day with clear skies, and the cold mountain air hit your nostrils. You felt the nausea dissipate somewhat. “Good morning girls!”, your aunt waved from outside the barn. “Morning auntie! Where's uncle?” you asked. “He’s taking stock of the firewood inside the barn, this winter has been longer than we anticipated and he’s a bit worried we’ll run out” She grimaced. “I’m sure he’ll sort it out though. Are you heading to the goats?”. You both nodded, and explained that you needed to make sure that they had found running water, as the brooks were still covered in ice. You waved goodbye, and started walking the path to the forest line where the goats would gather. You could hear their bells getting closer, and you started to take stock of the herd. “There’s one missing” Leliana observed, “maybe she’s wandered further up the path?”. You offered to go look for the missing goat, and were relieved that the snow had melted to a point where you didn’t have to struggle in it anymore. A low ridge of stones followed the path, a sign that you were on the exact border between the North and the South. You gulped, your thoughts drifting into the endless stories about the horrors of the last war, where both sides took massive losses. A clan from the South decided to attack clans in the North, in a hunt for more omegas, as their own omega population had dwindled. 

Even though many Southern clans cursed this escalation, they still had to back their own, and a brutal war escalated. Since then, peace has been balanced on a knife's edge, only motivated by avoiding pain in each nation, and a wish to avoid more loss than they already had. The North was still distrusting of the south, and would occasionally send scouts along the border to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.

You heard a timid goat’s bleat ahead of you, and snapped out of your spiraling thoughts. She was just ahead of you on the path, trying to find an opening in the icy brook to drink from. You fell softly to your knees next to her, picking up a rock to smash the ice. 

---------

San’s perspective

San felt another icy drop hit his neck, and he ran a hand through his damp, black hair. He’d walked far from their outpost this morning, as it finally was a clear and crisp day and the sight was exceptional. He made sure to weave along the tree line, staying somewhat hidden between the trees as he peered across the mountainside. 

As a part of the Ateez’ clan’s allegiance with the other Northern clans, they were expected to patrol along the border, just in case the Southern clans were building outposts for military purposes. He’d never seen anything suspicious himself, but he didn’t mind the solitude, a respite away from the constant chaos of his beloved pack. 

As San wandered beneath the bare canopies, admiring how the sunlight filtered down between them, he caught a scent so intense he almost fell to his knees. It smelled like a warm July day, a rose folding itself out in its prime and as sweet as honey. 

His mind raced, it was still March in the mountains, where on earth were these divine scents originating from? That’s when he saw you. 

At first, it was just a bundled up little shape kneeling by the brook, clad in somewhat disheveled garments. As he crouched and slowly walked closer, he could see long, wavy hair peeking out of your woolly, hooded shawl. A wide belt enhancing your feminine figure.

The scent was intensifying as he was closing in on you, and he gripped a tree trunk with both his hands, to keep himself steady. 

Omega, the word echoed in San's mind. He shook his head in disbelief. Had he randomly stumbled over what his pack was so desperately longing for? What he imagined but didn’t let himself hope for every night as he crawled under the covers all alone?

He snapped out of his racing mind as your scent suddenly soured, and he saw you falling to your side, wrapping both of your arms around your stomach. He gasped in shock, but still held himself in place, white knuckling the tree. 

You were writhing on the ground, and he could tell that you were in pain. He felt an intense rush of wanting to run to you, to hold you and scent you, but he knew he had to be careful to not reveal himself along the border. 

Your pull on him was heavy, and he felt his mind fully occupied by both your irresistible scent and his own panic. Then he heard your voice. 

---------

“Leli! Help!” It was all you were able to yell, as the sharp pain kept stabbing you in your abdomen. 

When you had room for thoughts, you were only cursing yourself. It was obvious that you were in heat, and that you had failed to pay attention to the fact that it had been 4 whole months since your last one. 

Light cramps convulsed in your belly, but you found solace in the fact that you were still in pre-heat, and not completely incapacitated yet. “I’m coming!” You heard Leliana in the distance, trying to focus on keeping your breathing steady. 

You felt a sudden prickling on your neck. A voice in the back of your mind. You quickly looked around but it was hard to focus. You wrote it off to the intensity of your pre-heat kicking in. 

“Aw shit, it’s your heat already?” Leliana looked at you with a sympathetic gaze, and reached for your arm. You stood up, gathering the goatling in your arms, leaning on Leliana for support. 

“Let’s get this one back to the herd, and then get the hell back home before this gets any worse”. 

It was a relief to be back in the safety of the cabin and your bed, while your temperature fluctuated from hot to cold under the covers. You sipped on a special brew that Leliana cooked up from last summer’s dried herbs, easing your symptoms. 

As you felt your eyelids get heavy, you couldn’t help but recall the shivers that went down your spine by the brook. Something calling for you. 

---------

Any feedback is much appreciated for this newbie. <3 Comment if you want to be on a taglist!

Masterlist / Next >>

[whimsicalwritingsandmore]

Aurorise | ateez x reader

Pairing: prince!ateez x dancer!reader

Genre: royalty, historical fiction, poly, adventure

Word Count: 1568 words

Summary: The story of how you, a dancer, upheaved an entire monarchy all by falling in love with eight princes.

a/n: from the poll, the next post will be college!ateez! :) Enjoy! <3

Aurorise - A kingdom where dawn's first light paints everyday masterpieces. (Reference: Kingdom Ideas)

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

As far as you recall, you weren't supposed to come back home. When you joined the travelling dance group, your plan entailed travelling from kingdom to kingdom and settling in whichever one promised a fruitful life.

The kingdom you grew up in, Aurorise, reigned with a dysfunctional monarchy and an impulsive King whose decisions were based on his emotions rather than logic, and this was often to the detriment of his kingdom. He had 16 sons, who formed their own groups consisting of 8 each. And his wives divided themselves similarly, in support of the ones in the line to succession. You had no business with how the royals lived their lives but their irresponsibility took a toll on the betterment of the village. The King’s decadent lifestyle was a clear symbol of the excesses of the ruling class.

Your family didn't want to leave. Your father, who had once been close friends with the King, was ready to lend support to the monarchy if needed like a true patriot as he saw himself, and your mom wanted to be by his side as a dutiful wife.

 However, she did urge you to pursue your life elsewhere because you deserved to live a good life that felt right for you. So much to the disappointment of your father, you ventured out into the world and became a world renown dancer alongside your trusted friend, Hoshi.

Together, the two of you along with some friends, established yourselves as an acclaimed dance group known as Lumiere - a radiant group, sparkling in gold ensembles with a gentle glow and performed with grand splendour and flamboyance. 

Until, one day, you received a letter from your cousin requesting your group’s presence and attendance in celebration of her alliance to Prince Chan, the Crown Prince and first in line to the throne.

Now you didn't dislike your cousin, rather, the two of you hardly ever exchanged conversations with one another. Because while you focused on seeing and touring the world, she focused on being selected as a possible betrothed to one of the princes. Her wish came true and you hardly ever saw her again. Your father urged you to do the same but you disagreed, not wanting a life bounded by strict rules and expectations.

At first you considered not going, but as you continued to read the letter, it felt as if there was a sense of urgency coming from your cousin’s message to attend and so, against your better judgement, you told Hoshi the circumstances.

Hoshi was more than happy to oblige and now, here you were, standing outside in front of the palace in the stupendous courtyard with the royal family just above you on the palace balcony and many guests gathered around.

In all honesty, you felt like a prey being watched from every angle and direction. While you waited patiently alongside him, Hoshi’s gaze was fixed on your cousin standing next to Prince Chan in the balcony. Sadness washed over his features as he looked on and realising the distant look in his eyes, you gave a reassuring nudge to ask if he was okay. He snapped out of daze and smiled at you, looking away to the other end of the courtyard.

This was one of the reasons you didn't want to come. Your cousin and Hoshi had a past history with each other, one that ended terribly for the latter. He loved her dearly and she possibly had feelings for him at one point but ultimately, their fates led them elsewhere, away from each other.

Hoshi never talked about it and he never spoke ill of your cousin or the monarchy. He continued to live his life, following his dreams and passions with a smile plastered on his face every time you saw him.

You were snapped out of your thoughts as it was announced that the King had arrived and behind him eight of his sons strolled in. You recognized this group instantly. They called themselves Ateez and were regarded as the rebellious group of princes. Prince Seonghwa, the oldest, is second in line to the throne and was the only one, perhaps besides Prince Yunho and Prince Jongho, who actually followed the rules of the court.

Prince Hongjoong and Prince Mingi didn't care; they did whatever they want when they felt like it. Meanwhile, Prince Yeosang was known to be sleeping most of the time while Prince San and Prince Wooyoung are a duo who revelled in causing chaos and mischief.

Their other eight brothers who addressed themselves as Stray Kids, tended to follow the rules a bit more because of Chan’s imminent succession to the throne, but would find themselves at times revelling in mischief and tricks like Prince San and Prince Wooyoung.

Knowing this made you become fully aware of the fact that Prince Chan might be the only saving grace for this kingdom, and perhaps Prince Seonghwa to some extent. The rest of the princes seemed iffy.

In the meantime, you wanted to go home. You preferred being at home while your mother prepared delicious treats than standing in the palace courtyard in the blistering hot sun with haughty nobles.

But then, when one of Her Highnesses began to chastise your cousin extremely loudly for everyone to hear and hurling spiteful comments at your cousin’s meek attempts to explain things, you found yourself clinking your anklets as a response to siding with your cousin.

The King found your retaliation amusing as no one dared to oppose any of his wives. He signalled you out of your group to the centre of the courtyard.

"What's your name?"

You bowed respectfully as you answered, "Y/L/N Y/N, Your Highness."

"Y/L/N?” he asked, the name felt familiar to him, “Are you Y/L/N's daughter?"

"Yes Your Highness." 

"Hm, you were not there for the selection for the bethorals though."

"I was not in the Kingdom at the time, Your Highness. My group and I were performing in another kingdom."

"Your group?” he watched your group at the side, “What's the name of your dance group?"

"Lumiere, Your Highness."

"Do you mean, the most renowned and currently talked about dance group?"

"Yes Your Highness."

"The most well-known dance group is from this kingdom and there has never been a performance!" The King suddenly bellowed.

No one muttered a word as the King looked around, waiting for someone to answer.

“Well!?” he yelled

You responded gracefully, "We tried to perform at the Kingdom's banquets a few times, Your Highness. But we were rejected every time. We left afterwards and began performing in other kingdoms."

"Hm,” he grumbled, “Well you will perform now."

"Excuse me Your Highness," one of Her Highnesses interrupted, the one who ridiculed your cousin, "But this insolent girl was rude to me. She needs to be punished!"

"I said, they will perform now." The King reprimanded.

Her Highness pursed her lips and stayed quiet, seething with anger and eyed you with contempt.

"You may begin." The King announced.

You glanced at Hoshi who gave an encouraging smile.

"Hoshi-ya." You sang.

"Yes ma'am?" He sang cheerily.

"Shall we dance?"

You clinked your anklets as a sign for the drummer to begin playing, and he followed the rhythm of your anklets to the beat of the drum. The two of you began your performance that enthralled the entire crowd. 

Your performance was a riot of colours, as you twirled, your skirt flared around like a fiery halo and you were a whirlwind of energy with your feet almost barely touching the floor while your body bent and moved to the rhythm of the music. As the melody played, you and Hoshi moved in sync, each twirl and step in perfect harmony with each other. The performance was an expression of opulence and exuberance. All eyes were transfixed on your group with complete awe and fascination.

Little did you know, eight pairs of those eyes were that of the eight princes. You had caught their attention, bewitched and enchanted them with your talent and they watched with enthusiasm and attentiveness. Surprisingly, they also felt a twinge of jealousy as Hoshi grabbed you by the waist gently and spun you around gracefully.

Your performance ended with you sitting on the ground and your gaze to the floor. The applause was thunderous but you did not know about the princes' interest until, a red veil was thrown from the balcony and landed on top of you, covering you completely.

Your eyes widened in shock. In your culture, red veils are for brides and brides-to-be. Brides-to-be would be gifted a red veil that was selected by their future husband to wear on the wedding day, signifying the union between the two. As a result, a gesture like this would have your people whispering and talking.

You grabbed the hems of the veil with shaky hands and lifted it slowly to see who was bold enough to do something like this. The applause had died down and silence filled the courtyard.

Looking up, you saw the culprit leaning over the balcony with a smile on his face, making sure it was known that he was the one who did it. Behind him, stood the rest of his brothers looking at you expectantly.

You couldn't believe it.

Prince Choi San beamed radiantly, looking at you with adoring eyes.

[chokchokk]

𝐝𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐞-𝐛𝐲 𝐦𝐞 | ateez ensemble

a geondal/organised crime!ateez series

𝚜𝚎𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚜 𝚜𝚢𝚗𝚘𝚙𝚜𝚒𝚜 : You just wanted to live, never wanted to be rich, yet ten years later, you are swimming in money— planning to drown in it, and maybe because it's fate, there's a bounty put on you by a past you didn't know would catch up.

As their secret getaway driver to success, your men say you should be more careful, but it's been a while nobody knew what you are capable of, hasn't it?

It's time for one final ride, Y/N.

𝚐𝚎𝚗𝚛𝚎 : noir, smut | korean mafia/geondal!au | chaebol!ceo!au

𝚌𝚘𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚝 𝚠𝚊𝚛𝚗𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜 : korean mafia, organised crime, chaebol (the rich in korea), toxic masculinity, brothels, prostitution; porn with plot, everybody wants reader (ateez ensemble x fem!reader), reader is milf (without the child part), please refer to each part for more specific warnings

𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚝𝚞𝚜 : on-going

chapters under the cut~

spotify playlist* | main masterlist (* updated as the series goes)

CLEAR.

𝔰𝔢𝔯𝔳𝔢 𝔱𝔦𝔪𝔢 | san : seonghwa | 18.2k

DEPART.

ROAD.

DRIFT.

ACCELERATE.

GETAWAY.

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join here or get in my inbox, leave comments, anything! :) thank you!

[multiwreckedmess]

Kinktober Day 1

Prompt: Costume Pairing: San x fem!reader WC: 1,900 Summary: When you and your boyfriend have a minor disagreement on what to do for your halloween costumes, you hatch a plan to have him see your side.

This is a work of fiction, it does not represent San or any Ateez member. On top of this it is an 18+ work. For my comfort and boundaries please if you are under age do not interact with this. 

TW/CW under the cut

TW/CW: Sort of petplay, reader called “kitty”, “kitten” as well as “babe” and “sweetie”, oral (m. receiving), unprotected intercourse, finishing inside, tail plug mentioned. I think that’s about it.

Staring into the monochrome abyss of San’s closet you huff. “Babe? What are we wearing for Hongjoong’s Halloween party?”  He doesn’t turn from his game, frantic clicks of the mouse filing the space where his reply should be.  “Babe?” You ask again, foolishly hopeful.  More clicking, punctuated by a flood of curses under his breath.  You purse your lips and turn to him, the silhouette of his chair blocking him. “San?”  His fist slams into the table, “SHIT! Sorry. Dead. I got 1 minute. What? Sorry.”  “Costume. Halloween party?”  “I was thinking we’d buy a couples-”  “BUY?” Your eyes bug incredulously. The thought opens wide a can of childhood trauma. Years of your parents insisting that you create your costumes with clothes either from the second hand store or existing closet pieces with minimal single use articles. While others got to dress as Jesse from Toy Story or Cinderella, you had to figure out your best approximation of what a witch would look like in modern dress.  San’s brows furrow in confusion. “What? Yes? How else do you get a costume?”  “Where is your spirit of creation?! I might as well dress up like a cat if you’re just going to buy some shitty costume.”  San rolls his eyes, exasperated. “You can’t make a cat into a couples costume.”  “You go ahead and buy the costumes. I’ll put together mine and show you how much better it is.”

 It’s manipulative, you know it is, as you examine yourself in the mirror. You’d probably never wear this ensemble out, but it was about the message. Fuzzy ears clipped to the top of your head matched beautifully with the tail plug tickling the back of your thighs from under your skirt. It was almost unfair, almost.

 Leaning against the doorframe you watch him click away, unaware of the treat sitting mere meters away from him. You knock and wait patiently with a small smirk tugging at your lips.  “He-holy shit,” San turns and stops in his tracks, eyes racking over your body. Whatever he was doing or going to do long forgotten he launches himself from the computer chair. He whole body throbs for a second as his arms tighten around you and lift, moving you with ease. For a second he considers tossing you fully onto the mattress but decides better, it would be a waste instead placing you in the center of the bedroom. “Such a pretty kitty,” San purrs, pushing your hair behind your ear. Nails scratching lightly at your scalp, his eyes shine as as shiver runs down your body.  “So you like it?” You tug slightly at the half gloves covering your wrist, smoothing them taut to you. Small rubber paw prints adorn the palms, soft and squishy and pink. Your stockings have them too, just at the ball of the foot, with matching pretty pink bows at the tops of the thighs. You twirl, tripping lightly as the rubber paws grip the ground more than you’re prepared for. San’s arms wrap around you again and secure you as his chest blocking your tumble.  “Maybe a little dangerous to wear out,” he muses, hand trailing your spine.  “We’ll have to take care of that, won’t we kitty?” His mind feels hazy as the blood flow redirects southwards. He shouldn’t be as attracted to this outfit as he is. You just look so cute, so so SO cute it makes his head swim.

 It’s impossible to hide the pulse of interest in his sweatpants, comfy and breathable grey cotton leaving nothing to the imagination. “Take care of what?” You bat your eyelashes dumbly, prolonging the game. Your hands skim down to the waistband of his pants, feeling the flex of his lower abs as his breath catches. His own hand pushes up the back of your skirt, tugging lightly at the tail, stirring the plug within you just enough to make you whine.  “Don’t worry kitty, just follow me,” he smiles, palm cupping your ass. “get on your knees for me, won’t you?”  You’ve never dropped to your knees faster, looking up at his toned body with wide eyes. He barely moves his head to look down at you, only his eyes following. Your mouth waters, staring at the tented outline pressing insistently to the fabric.  “Be a good kitty and open your mouth for me,” his thumb strokes your cheek, your jaw softening and falling open in his hand. One handed, he pushes the top of his pants down, thick cock springing from the confines. Heavy and musky he taps the head on your outstretched  tongue, sucking in air through his teeth. It the eager twinkle in your eye as you patiently wait for his next instruction that stokes the fire in his gut. “That’s it, now just the tip sweetie, just a little lick for me,” he coaxes.

 Tongue flicking gently against the underside you listen for his breathy moan, mischievous smile tugging at the corners of your mouth. You barrage him with sweet kitten licks all over the head of his dick. As much as he can control his body he couldn’t control his expression, fighting to keep his eyes open his eyelids flutter. “Li’e tha’?” You ask, words slurred with your tongue lolling out.  “Just like that,” he sighs, “just keep your mouth open babe, let me do the work.” Letting the weight of his member rest heavily on your tongue you hold your head still, eyes fixed upwards, gazing at his face. Gathering your hair into a loose fist at the base of your scalp, his hips press forward into your inviting heat. It’s barely halfway down before he feels the resistant tight ring of your throat against him. Hazily he shallowly thrusts against it, the sound of your soft gags awakening something primal in him. Tears welling in your eyes you work hard to breath through your nose as he loses himself briefly to the rhythm. “Doin’ so well-,” he gasps, “a lil’ more. Such a good obedient kitty. A lil’ more for me.”

 Your core throbs impatiently, gut twisting and tightening. His choked back moans and lack of oxygen have you lightheaded, your own hand wandering between your thighs to provide some relief to your unattended sex. Subtle twitches of his thighs and cock tell you he’s close, an unrepressed moan burbling up from your lungs has him retreating quickly, strands of spit and salty precum bridging the gap in your bodies.  “Don’ wan’ cum?” You gulp and gasp, wiping your lips on the back of the arm warmers.  San shakes his head, eyes unfocused and breathing heavily.  You don’t have time to question why before he is pulling you up by your forearms and tossing you face down into the unmade sheets of the bed like you were little more than a misplaced pillow. He’s on you nearly as fast, hand running up the back of your thighs to your slit.  “Practically dripping,” he growls and giggles all at once, giddy. You push back on his hand with a moan.  “All for you,” your voice is horse and ragged.  “Good kitty.”

 The blunt pressure of his cock breaching your entrance forces a harsh exhale from you. Your skirt is bunched and balled into his fists at your waist, little more than makeshift handles for him to use as he pushes his way into your tight heat. The slickness of your arousal eases the push as his hips roll against you, deeper and deeper with each stroke until he’s fully seated in your cunt. Elated, you wiggle back at him, shaking the tail still snuggly held in by the plug.  San marvels at how your walls stretch and hug to accommodate his thickness. The audio visual experience of your small moans and tight hole eagerly sucking him back dulls his wits. For a moment he drops the skirt to palm your ass, spreading you so he can better watch himself disappear as he shallowly fucks into you, absentmindedly stroking the fur of the tail draped down your back. It’s just enough to jostle the plug, tight ring of muscle flexing to hold it in.  Your chest tightens and vision blurs, elbows faltering and falling cheek first into the mattress. “It feels good,” you try to say, only bubbles of spit and moans managing to make their way out of your mouth.  “You’re so fucked,” San laughs as his hips snap into you faster. “You’re so hot.”  “Fuuuuck,” you groan in agreement. “I’m fuuuuucked.” The words bounce with the shaking of your body, uncontrolled and automatic. San fists your strip of a skirt, using it as leverage to fuck into you harder and faster. You can hardly breathe as your orgasm rolls over you, one after another, walls clenching and spasming around his cock. Fingers claw at the bed, twitching as you pant and groan and swear underneath him.  He drops his hold on your skirt, unceremoniously allowing you to crumple to the bed as he pulls from you.  “Nooo,” you whine pitifully at the loss of sensation. Exhaustion plagues your muscles but your gut needs more, craves more. You ragdoll as he pushes you to your back, clambering between your thighs again. It’s rougher than he’s every been with you. You stomach flutters and flips and he practically folds you in half, pressing your knees up to your armpits and sliding back into you.  “Don’t worry kitty, you’ll get your treat,” he murmurs in your ear, breath tickling your jaw.  This angle is a different kind of intense, his body weight heavy on your lungs, restricting your airflow just enough to have you buzzing. His biceps flex as he holds himself and your legs up as best he can, your stockinged feet waving loosely in the air with each thrust. You hold onto him, clinging to his back with all your might. Your ears ring and rush as you lose yourself in his motions.  “Cum, please, cum,” you chant into his shoulder. “Fuck your cum into your cute kitten.” Spit and sweat commingling on your lips. You curl up, forehead pressed to the junction as you climax, vision darkening and eyelids fluttering.  You’d scream but your lungs are empty and diaphragm clenched. Everything burns from the inside out. Gasping, you bite down on his trapezius, his strangled groan of pleasure and surprise breaking through your haze as his hips stutter and slam as deep as he can go into you. The warmth of his release coats your walls as they work him.

 San whimpers and then giggles quietly.  “Sorrysorrysorrysorry,” you spew in a whispered prayer.  “Don’t apologize to me,” he kisses your cheek. “Intense right?”  You don’t answer, eyes closed in bliss. All is quiet except for your breaths and the occasional light smack of lips to skin as you pepper eachother with pecks. You let him lower your legs to the bed, release slightly seeping out around his cock as he moves you. “You like the costume?” You trade an obvious question with a second obvious question.  “Skirts ruined, sorry,” he giggles again. “Pussy ruined.””

 You glare at him. He shifts slightly, balancing himself on one arm as he grabs an errant ear from between the pillows. “See? Pussy ruined. Besides, not a couples costume so-” it was such a San answer, letting you win the battle but not the war.

I’m really not promising much if anything but I wanna write more frequently sooo here you go. As usual, please let me know if I am missing tags or if you’d like me to add any TW/CW that are sensitive for you to any upcoming fics!

Also i noticed the formatting is a little fucked on mobile i’m so sorry i think it’s that i copy paste in from another doc but like...it’s hard to tell. It’s the first paragraph. Sorry!!

[cheollipop]

Hello!! sleepovers fuck yeah i love sleepovers~ firstly CONGRATS on 2k 🥳 the idea of sleepovers makes me feel so soft so my submission would be pure soft loveydovey fluff!! (ot8 ateez ensemble/poly! fem reader)

the idea of (f) reader being sick and unwell and all of the boys scramble to make her feel better and comfort you but it’s also utter chaos because they’re all trying to be the best boyfriend taking care of you! at the end of the day you end up comforting them too and you all end on top of eachother all cuddling watching tv and being affectionate (members that dislike skinship just finding comfort next to everyone)

just picturing them all trying to take care of you in their own way- woo trying to make favourite soup, jongho serenading you quietly, san stroking your hair, seonghwa cleaning you up when you’ve been sick?? like the list goes ON and on for them!! but also them interacting with eachother the competitiveness- the protectiveness acting like you’re dying when it’s literally just a flu 😭

so soft for them🥹

~id also SO be down if some nsfw love making etc was sprinkled or suggested like bathing together and taking care of ALL your needs ygm~

will be bundled up in my blankets all cozy to read your work, hope you enjoy writing it i know i’ll enjoy reading it🥰 mwah

2𝙠 𝙎𝙡𝙚𝙚𝙥𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩

omg bunnie hello!! you sent me this beautiful ask so now we're on a first-name-basis tyvm (and you get a tag). "my submission would be pure soft loveydovey fluff" you didn't lie!!!! this is so so SO cute omg, and the way I'm coming down with a cold rn too,, the universe practically sat me down and told me to write this or else. ahem. anyway, I won't lie, I was a bit stuck trying to figure out what to write for this one bc the fluff part is so beautifully written as it is;; so you get smut!! and I'm feeling like a little tease, soooo... hehe sorry~ ^^ thank you so much for your kind words!! I really hope you enjoy reading~ mwah <3

pairing: park seonghwa x fem!reader x jung wooyoung

w.c.: 0.7k

tags: smut, fingering (f), praise, some teasing, pet names, soft doms!woohwa, but seonghwa's in charge ^^, and he cares more about your health than what you want ^^

nsfw under cut—minors dni!

Blunt nails scratched at your scalp, shampoo suds slowly making their way down your temple as Seonghwa worked them into your hair. A damp patch spread through the thin pajama bottoms where you’d been leaning back against his thigh, his body propped up at the edge of the porcelain tub. You sank your body further, chin dipping under the warm water with every exhale, a whine on your lips as skilled hands disrupted the bubbles around your crotch.

Kneeling on the tiled floor, Wooyoung worked your cunt under the veil of floral-scented foam, two fingers pumping bathwater into your heated walls while he took in the breathy noises leaving your mouth.

“Something wrong, love?”

Seonghwa’s voice sent a shiver down your spine, walls squeezing around the digits fucking into your g-spot with practiced ease. “Hwa, please.”

“You asked for this, didn't you?” He teased, massaging the spot behind your ears with his thumbs.

“No,” you whimpered, “wanted you to fuck me, please,” you rutted against Wooyoung’s palm, trying to create friction over your clit.

“And he said no,” Wooyoung—head tilted in amusement, his eyes focused on the progressive shifts in your expression—reiterated Seonghwa’s earlier instruction, scoffing at the angry leg kicks creating soapy waves around your immersed figure.

“Darling, you’re sick,” the older man tilted your head upwards to meet your narrowed gaze, leaning down to press a kiss to your heated forehead, lips pausing over your skin before pecking it once more and moving away as he straightened up. “I’ll fuck you nice and full once your fever goes away, how’s that sound?”

An exhaled laugh blew out of Wooyoung’s nose, the effect Seonghwa’s words had on you evident in the tight squeeze around his fingers. You nodded enthusiastically, eyelashes fluttering while he peppered a few more kisses over your temples and nose, only for your attention to be drawn back to the man at your side, head snapping towards him as he began pistoning his fingers into your cunt with restless vigour.

“I’m the one making you feel good, pretty girl, pay attention to me,” Wooyoung cooed, his free hand cupping your face, thumb tenderly caressing the highest point of your cheek while the fingers stuffed within your drenched pussy guided you towards the steep edge of your orgasm.

“Woo, please, ngh- I’m,” your spine arched against the porcelain, the pressure in your lower belly growing hastily and your pussy leaking hot slick into the tepid water.

“Come on, darling, show me how hard you’re gonna come on Youngie’s fingers,” Seonghwa’s honeyed tone reverberated in your ear, delicate hands kneading into your tense shoulders.

Your hips lifted off the tub to meet Wooyoung’s thrusts, his fast-paced rhythm shifting to deliberate glides of his fingertips over your sensitive gland, your eyes rolling to the back of your head as your orgasm crashed through you, your body floating off the edge while Wooyoung guided you through it with mumbled praise. Plush lips planting kisses over your damp skin, a warm stream of water washing the floral shampoo out of your hair while you spasmed under the two men’s touch. Your voice—hoarse and broken—echoed between the tiles, persistent fingers languidly stroking your walls as you came down from a mind-numbing high, reaching between your quivering legs to paw at them until they left you stretched out and empty, clenching around nothing.

It took you a few moments to take in your present state, to register the deep breaths in the steamy room as your own, to feel the rough washcloth wiping off the layer of sweat glimmering over your skin, another set of hands kneading the flesh at your hips to ease the trembles shaking your figure. You sighed as you relaxed back into the hard surface behind you, eyes only fluttering open when Seonghwa broke the comfortable silence, lips parted and hand loosely clutching the cloth near your breast, the hard length of his cock throbbing against the back of your head.

“My good girl,” he smiled, eyes brimming with lust as he took in your limp, fucked-out form. “‘Gonna get better quickly, or will I have to fuck you back to health?”

[mint-yooxgi]

{4} - Written in the Stars - Yandere!Idol!Yeosang X Tall!Chubby!Reader

Soft Yandere AU & Idol AU

Genre: Mature, Horror, Angst, Fluff, Slight Humor, Slow Burn

Pairing: Yeosang X Reader (ft. future Ateez and Skz ensemble)

Words: 12,502

Warnings: Slow burn. Minor fatshaming, oc gets called a bitch a few times (not by anyone important), minor assault and uncomfortable/inappropriate comments made towards the oc. K-Drama moment. I think that's all This is a Yandere story, it will contain themes such as stalking, violence, obsession, possessive natures, and just general overall creepiness and swearing. You have been warned.

A/n: It's been literally forever since I updated this omg, but I hope you all enjoy this part!! I'll edit it tomorrow after I wake up, so please excuse any mistakes. I'm super tired and not feeling the greatest at the moment because of it. Anyways, as always, feedback is greatly appreciated! Enjoy~

Also, gentle reminder that I don’t do tag lists.

Disclaimer: It's not often this chapter where this applies, but the following is important to note:

"This represents a line spoken in Korean."

"Bolded represents a line spoken in English."

"Bolded and italics represents a line spoken in Japanese."

Mini Masterlist - Part One - Part Two - Part Three

Placing the mug onto the table in front of you, you pull out a chair and sit down.

“I’m serious!” Winry laughs. “Rumour on the street is that you and Yuta are dating! After those images of him holding your hand at that award’s show went viral, it was the talk of the town.”

Letting out a puff of air, you run a hand over the top of your head. “It must not be a very popular story. Mark hasn’t said anything about it to me.”

“Maybe he’s jealous.” She shrugs, taking a sip from the mug you’ve already provided for her.

Immediately, you start laughing. “I highly doubt that.”

“Yuta is your biggest wrecker in NCT,” she shrugs casually.

“Yeah, but he doesn’t know that.” You reply.

“You told him that Ten is your bias, but not the fact that Yuta is your wrecker?” Winry quirks a brow.

“Essentially,” your shoulder lifts nonchalantly in confirmation. “Also told him that he was my first NCT bias cause he wouldn’t stop complaining about it.”

“Damn,” she breathes. “Boy must have ascended when you told him that.”

“You’re blowing things out of proportion.” You shake your head teasingly. “They’re just my friends.”

“Are you sure they think that?” She quirks a brow. 

Only, before you can respond, her phone rings. 

“I’m so sorry,” she grins sheepishly, checking who the caller is. “It’s Wyatt.”

Understanding passes over your features. “Well, aren’t you going to answer it?”

“Are you sure?” She looks genuinely hesitant to.

“Of course! He’s your significant other, after all!” You encourage her to answer by motioning towards her phone. “You haven’t talked lately cause of his business trip, right? Please, be my guest!”

A grateful smile tugs onto her lips as she stands from your kitchen table. Not even a moment later, she’s pressing accept on the call as she retreats into your living room for a bit more privacy.

You watch her disappear around the couch, noticing how she tucks herself away in the corner by the balcony. Her voice is low, so you can’t really make out what she says, but from the expression on her face you can tell just how happy she is to be talking with him. You smile.

Shifting your gaze to your hands, you pull your mug in closer to yourself. A moment later, you bring it to your lips, taking a small sip of the hot chocolate you’ve made. At least it’s cool enough for you to drink now.

Pulling your phone out of the side pocket of your leggings, you decide to distract yourself for the time being. You don’t want Winry to feel as if she has to rush her conversation with her significant other. After all, they haven’t spoken in over a week, let alone seen each other recently. With their busy schedules, you can’t even remember the last time she spoke about seeing him.

Scrolling through Tumblr, you check your notifications. 

Despite being a published author, you still maintain some of your blogs from before. The sentiment is far too great for you to give up now, and you enjoy it too much. Besides, it’s fun to post little pieces here and there on your old writing accounts. When inspiration strikes, it strikes hard.

There are only a few select people that know you still do this. Well, more than just a few. Still, it’s quite fun to see new readers message you asking you if you’re really who they think you are, only for you to reply that you are not. It’s like a huge game of detective for your followers that are convinced you are who you say you are not, but don’t have any proof. Of course, you use an alias online now, but regardless, you don’t think you could give up your blogs, even if you tried.

“Sorry about that.” Winry’s voice manages to pull you out of your thoughts.

Locking your phone, you place it beside your mug on the table. "No worries at all; I don’t mind.”

She smiles, but from the way she begins to fidget in her seat, you can tell that she has more to say.

You quirk a brow.

“Wyatt came back a few days early. He said he wanted to surprise me, but when he got back to our apartment, I wasn’t at home.” She begins.

You hum in acknowledgement.

“He said he had a surprise he wanted to give me, and that he wanted to take me out for the day.” She continues. “I told him I was spending time with you.”

You take another sip of your drink.

“Of course, he seemed a little disappointed, but he understood-“

“Winry, if you want to go spend the day with your significant other, don’t worry about me.” You reply.

“But we planned for us to spend the day together…” She counters, shoulders twitching as she fiddles with her hands beneath the table.

“I know you want to see him.” You smile assuringly. “It’s been, what? Two months?”

“Almost three.” She breathes out, whole body stilling as she stares at the top of your kitchen table almost absentmindedly.

“Then, by all means! Go! Spend the day with him!” You motion for her to stand. “We can always reschedule. Who knows when you’ll get to see him like this again.”

“Are you sure?” Hopeful eyes meet your own.

“Positive.” You nod, quite enthusiastically. “Go have fun with Wyatt! We saw each other last week, and I’m sure we’ll see each other again soon.”

It’s as if a tension lifts from her entire body. “You’re the best!”

You laugh, watching as she scrambles to her feet and towards the front door. “I know.”

“I owe you. Big time for this.” She says as you follow her to the front. “Seriously, I can’t thank you enough.”

“I need to run a few errands, anyways.” You wave her off, holding your mug delicately in your one hand. “Gives me an excuse to go do some things I’ve been putting off before tomorrow.”

“Oh yeah, your signing is tomorrow, right?” She finishes slipping on her shoes.

You nod.

“We’ll be there.” She states, rather firmly.

“You don’t have to-“

“Nonsense!” She shakes her head. “I’m coming to support you, and I’m dragging his ass along with me, too. Payback for this little ‘surprise’.”

The two of you share a small laugh.

“Okay, well, say ‘hi’ for me, and have fun!” You smile, holding the door open for her as she exits your apartment.

“Will do!” She calls over her shoulder as she heads down the hallway. “See you later!”

Waving your final goodbye, you shut the door softly. As soon as the lock clicks into place, a small sigh is escaping your lips. Well, there go your plans of spending your day with your friend.

Oh, well. It happens.

Stopping off in the kitchen on your way back to the table, you’re quick to place your now empty mug in the sink. A few steps later, you’ve moved over to grab your phone off of the top of the table, shifting to put Winry’s glass into the sink as well. 

Leaning against the counter, you scroll through your phone. You do have a few things you could get done today, but you weren’t really planning on doing them until later. Perhaps you can find a café or something when you’re finished, and get some writing done.

A sudden message from Jongho in the group chat catches your attention. It appears that they’re all at the dance studio for practice, as he’s sent a selfie to go along with it. Only, you can tell he was really sneaking a picture of the two males doing… whatever it is that they’re doing in the background.

You:Please tell me that’s some kind of elaborate stretch I’ve never heard about and not choreo for your next comeback.

You: And if it’s neither… Damn, you guys really get it on in the studio? I heard some of you were freaky, but I didn’t think you were that bad

Mingi: BAHAHAHAHAHAHA

You honestly laugh at how many emojis this man uses.

Seonghwa: Why? Are you interested in what goes on during practice?

Yunho: Wanna watch?

The side eyes Yunho sends you have you quirking a brow.

Jongho: Uh-oh, now the hot Cheeto is mad.

Another picture is sent, this time of Wooyoung angrily storming towards where you believe Jongho to be sitting. You can see both Mingi and San laughing in the background of this one while Hongjoong just looks exasperated.

Wooyoung: If you’re gonna sneak pictures of me in compromising positions to send to our sexy author friend, at least make sure to get my good side.

Jongho: What ‘good side’?

Wooyoung:Do you see? Do you see the harsh words I have to put up with from my junior everyday?

Yeosang: To be fair, he’s not the only one wondering

At the pondering emoji Yeosang uses, you cannot help but send a few laughing ones of your own.

Wooyoung: NOT YOU, TOO!

Wooyoung: First, you break my heart by giving me false hope that I’m your bias. Then, you won’t even tell me that I’m your wrecker. And now, you LAUGH at my MISERY?

Wooyoung: You are a meanie >:(

You:Wait wait wait

You: I knew that, but how did YOU know that? :0

A slew of laughing emojis are sent from a bunch of the guys, you smiling down at your phone. This short interaction has really served to boost your mood, and you cannot help the way a few chuckles escape you as you read their continued banter back and forth.

Hongjoong: You should come hang out with us sometime during practice. At least that way I know Wooyo will behave.

You can practically hear the whine Wooyoung is sure to let out in response as you read this message, and you cannot prevent the way your lips quirk upwards.

Seonghwa: Yeah! The staff seem to like you, and our manager already said it was okay.

A moment where you see a few of them typing their responses.

Wooyoung: Besides… you’d get to watch us dance~

You: Be honest, is this another one of your attempts to figure out my bias?

Hongjoong: No! 

Hongjoong: Most definitely not! 

Hongjoong: Why would you think that? 

Hongjoong: I would never!

You receive a photo from Yeosang of Hongjoong intensely staring down at his phone, his ears clearly bright red as he pouts.

Yunho:Betrayal…

You shake your head in amusement.

You: As long as you can guarantee I won’t be in the way, or be too much of a distraction… I’ll think about it.

Several various cheering emojis are sent to you by some clearly overexcited males (Wooyoung, Mingi, and Jongho), while the others are able to type out their excitement with small phrases.

San: Since we’re now all apparently taking a break… what are you up to currently?

You: Me? Well, I was supposed to spend the day with a friend, but something came up, so now I’m going to go run some errands. Might find a café of something and do some writing.

Hongjoong: Did you even get any sleep last night?

You: Hey! Of course I did! Besides, you’re one to talk. I woke up to five messages all an hour apart. You were up WAY later than I was. You need more sleep than I do!

Hongjoong: It’s not my fault I do my best work at night.

A meme is sent from you of a man in a purple shirt pointing his finger in the air while saying ‘you got me there’.

You: I swear, one of these days I’m going to knock you unconscious and FORCE you to sleep

Hongjoong: That’s rich, considering YOU are practically always awake when I am

Another meme is sent from you of a stuffed bear wrapped in a blanket burrito while laying on a bed. A knife peeks out from the blanket. The caption reads something along the lines of, ‘I will sneak into your house and replace all your drinks with sleepy time tea. You will be forced to breathe in comforting scents which soothe the mind, and as you fall unconscious, the last image you will have is of me smiling over you with a nice warm blanket tucking you in. This is a THREAT.’

Wooyoung: If this is how you threaten people, then I want IN

Mingi: Oh, oh! Threaten ME next!

You: You would not BELIEVE how many times my one friend sends me this, especially when it’s like, five am my time, and they’re just sitting down for dinner in their time zone.

Hongjoong: You drive a hard bargain…

Yunho: My god, I think he’s actually listening for once…

Seonghwa: I have been trying for YEARS-

Hongjoong: It only works if she’s the one to do it.

Wooyoung: I’d listen, too, if I had a pretty lady always telling me what to do.

San: Yeah, yeah, we all know you’re an obedient sub.

Wooyoung: LIKE YOU WERE THINKING ANY DIFFERENT!

The cackle that escapes you nearly causes you to drop your phone.

Mingi: Wooyo’s got a point…

You: Am I suddenly in the wrong group chat?

Yunho: Nope, same one. You should see how mad Jongho looks right now.

A photo is provided by Wooyoung this time of the youngest sitting against the mirrors with a frown on his face. He hugs his knees to his chest as he stares down at his phone.

Your own brows furrow in confusion, but before you can respond, Yeosang beats you to it.

Yeosang: Will you all stop fucking flirting with each other?

You nearly drop your phone.

San: Oop- we’ve gone and made Yeo mad

Wooyoung: Just cause YOU’RE not her favourite doesn’t mean you have to spoil OUR fun, Sangie.

You: Woah, woah, woah, who said he’s not my favourite?

This seems to shut all of them up for a good few minutes.

Seonghwa: Yeosang’s your bias?

Another minute of silence.

Yunho: You seem to have incited a war.

Another picture is sent. A pile consisting of Yeosang, Jongho, Wooyoung, and Hongjoong all seemingly rolling around on the floor is shown. San stands to the side with Mingi, the former attempting to pull the pile of males on the floor apart while the latter laughs.

You send some side eye emojis along with a few laughing faces.

You: You guys are really THAT desperate to know who my bias is?

Mingi: Does that mean Yeosang ISN’T your bias?

A shrugging emoji is all he receives from you in response. For now.

You: Any one of you could or couldn’t be my main bias. 

You: Like I said, you have to buy me a drink first ;)

Wooyoung: Why can’t you just tell us? :(

A sigh escapes you, thumbs hovering in the air over the keyboard as multiple of them seem to agree with Wooyoung’s inquiry.

You: It’s just a personal thing I have. 

You: I don’t mind telling other people, but when it comes to the actual people it involves, it’s a different story. I don’t know how much my opinion of each of you matters, but I’ve never really enjoyed picking favourites when that choice is told to said people. I don’t like the connotations of multiple people getting their hopes up that I’ll pick them as my favourite, only to choose someone else. I don’t like disappointing people, and I also am all too familiar with the feeling of not even being someone’s last choice. If I tell you who I bias, it will most likely be at some point when we’re one on one. If you’re still interested at that point.

You:I just-

You: Did that make sense? I can try and explain it better if you need me to.

Yeosang: We understand. Don’t force yourself to do something that makes you uncomfortable.

Wooyoung: Don’t worry! We’ll stop bothering you about it.

Yunho: Wooyoung… just agreed to stop pestering someone…

San: It’s a Christmas miracle!

Jongho: He’s still pouting about it in the corner…

A photo is received showing both Hongjoong, Mingi, and Wooyoung all standing dejectedly in the corner.

You: Damn, are you guys going to start growing mushrooms like Tamaki from Ouran now, too? I didn’t realize my opinion of you mattered so much.

You: If it makes you all feel any better, I think you’re all wonderful people. I thought that before I met you, and getting to know you all has only solidified that fact.

Quite a few typing bubbles appear onscreen. A moment later, you’re flooded by emoticons either blushing, screaming, and, or crying happily with hearts surrounding them.

Seonghwa: You’re a great friend

A soft smile caresses your features as you read his comment, a subtle heat rising up your neck. At the way the others all emphasize Seonghwa’s message, you cannot help the way your heart begins to flutter inside your chest. Truly, his words mean the world to you, and the fact the others agree with him is simply icing on the cake.

After sending a quick response to them, you decide to actually get out of your apartment for the day. It takes you no time at all to grab your one notebook, some writing tools, and your laptop, just in case. Packing everything into your one small cream coloured tote with the Skz Zoo characters on it that you got from their one concert, you head towards the door.

Slipping your shoes on, you grab your purse, slinging that over your opposite shoulder. You do a quick check in the mirror to make sure you still look okay before slipping out of the door. The faint clicking sound of the lock sliding into place is starting to become a familiar comfort to you every time you leave your apartment, walking down the hallway towards the elevators in the next second.

The ride down to the main floor is a bit slow, you focussing on your phone the whole time. Naver Maps rests open on the screen, doing a quick search of the area to find the best stores for what you’re looking for. Already, you have a mental list of what you need to get, and you figure doing that before settling down in a café to write will do you some good. That way, if you get on a roll, you don’t have to worry about cutting your time short to pick up what you need.

Stepping into the lobby, you send a polite greeting to the security guard behind the front desk before exiting the building.

The moment you step outside, you head over to the bus stop. Sitting on the bench, you wait for the respective bus to come, plugging in your headphones all the while. At least you can take your time now, and maybe explore the area a bit more when you get back. If you’re up for that, that is.

Half an hour later, you find yourself at a small shopping centre. You don’t need much, but you do need to get a few new replacement pieces of makeup. Then, you figure you can check out the bookstore before finding a place to work on your novel.

The night of the award’s show, you managed to finish off both your favourite shade of red lipstick, as well as your liquid eyeliner. Normally, you don’t wear makeup very often, but since you have a bunch of events coming up, and no personal stylist, you figure you should at least look somewhat put together. Not that that ideal will last long.

Still, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Entering a few different cosmetic stores, you search around for the best deal. The first one you went into was sold out of the liquid liner you like to use, anyways. You swear by it, as it’s application is the easiest to deal with. At least, in your opinion. That, and it dries quickly, and isn’t prone to smudging.

Perhaps you should also get a pencil liner while you’re at it…

Standing in front of the display with your favourite shade of red lipstick already held in your one hand, you look over all of the options. It appears as if this store is having a sale on their eyeliner, the words ‘buy one, get one half off’ practically glaring back at you from the sign.

Your eyes light up as you spot your favourite liquid liner. Almost instantly, your hands reach out to grab one of the last two on the shelf. Then, comes the hard part. Picking a pencil liner to go with it.

That’s when you notice another person shifting closer to you almost timidly.

Turning your head, you see a person somewhat hesitantly standing a few feet away. Their appearance is slightly androgynous, their black hair falling to their shoulders in a semi-wolf cut. Every now and then, you see their gaze darting to you almost nervously, their eyes lined with black liner.

“I like your hair,” you hum, purposely focussing on the display in front of you as you pull one of the two options you’ve been looking at off of the shelf. “I think it suits you nicely.”

Almost instantly, the person’s eyes light up despite them averting their gaze, “Thank you.”

You blink, as if realizing something.

“Oh, I’m so sorry! I’m completely blocking the display.” You step to the side, smiling politely at the person beside you.

Timidly, they smile back, taking a step in closer to the display.

Reaching your one hand forward, you pull the other pencil liner you’ve been considering off of the shelf to compare it to the other one in your opposite hand. Your brow furrows, looking over each one of them carefully and attempting to find out what the difference is between the two brands.

“I personally like this one better.” A voice from your right draws your attention, and you notice the person beside you glancing down at the liner in your right hand. “It last longer, and if you want to go for a smokey eye, it blends really nicely.”

“Really?” Your voice sounds hopeful.

“Yeah!” They smile somewhat shyly. “Though, if you don’t want it to smudge, then I would go with the other one you’re holding. It’s more of a gel pencil, if that makes sense.”

Softly, you nod your head. “I don’t usually wear a lot of makeup, but I never fuck around with my eyeliner.”

“Oh, yeah. Eyeliner can practically smell fear.” They joke.

A small laugh escapes you, and you notice them chuckling along, too.

“To be honest, I’ve never really been into makeup, but I don’t mind it every now and then.” You admit, sparing a glance down at the products held in your hand.

“I love it.” They say, only for their whole body to stiffen in the next second. It’s almost as if they said something wrong, for they glance towards you in what you can only assume is fear in the next moment.

“That’s so cool!” You grin, eyes crinkling at the sides. “I really love the way you’ve done your eyes today. It really makes them pop.”

Instantly, their shoulders relax and they shuffle a bit from foot to foot. “Thank you.”

“When I was younger, I was always obsessed with different coloured eyeliner.” You say, putting the one pencil liner back onto the shelf since you’ve decided to go with the other one for now. “Never used them, but I would always beg my mom to buy them for me.”

“I think my mom nearly had a stroke the first time I asked her to buy lipstick for me.” They voice lowly, as if sharing a precious secret. “She was a little hesitant at first, but when she saw how much I loved it, she couldn’t resist getting me more. Now, it’s like a recurring joke between us for her to get me a new shade every year for my birthday.”

“I love this for you!” You grin widely. “That’s honestly the best.”

“I’ve always wanted to work in the film industry for a few years now, but it’s quite competitive even getting a foot in the door.” They tell you.

“I can imagine.” You nod sympathetically before your eyes are widening as if you’ve just realized something. Then, quickly, you’re introducing yourself, seeing as you haven’t bothered to yet.

“I’m still working on that name stuff, but for now you can call me Zed.” They say, bowing slightly to you.

You bow back.

Ten more minutes are spent talking with Zed in front of that display. You even manage to go on your brief makeup is gender neutral rant after they express the same ideals.

“Everything is gender neutral if you’re brave enough.” You comment lowly, adjusting the strap of your purse over your one shoulder.

“Here, here.” They mock toast you with the few products held in their one hand.

“By the way, you mentioned being a makeup artist, correct?” You meet their gaze.

“Yeah, you’re correct.” They nod once in confirmation.

“This may be really weird considering we just met, but if you’re free tomorrow morning, I have an event I need to attend, and I would love someone to do my makeup for me. I’m not the greatest artist myself, and I would definitely pay you for your work!” You begin, somewhat shyly.

“Sure! What time would you need me to be at the place?” They ask.

Five minutes later, and you’ve exchanged contact information with them after explaining the details.

“I thought you looked familiar.” They mumble, almost to themselves. “I heard about that speech you gave two weeks ago, it was all over the news. I just didn’t realize that that was you.”

“Yep!” You chuckle, grinning widely from ear to ear. “That’s me!”

“Is that why you’re picking up products today?” They quirk a brow.

“One of the reasons.” You confirm. “I have the rest at home, but you’re more than welcome to bring whatever you think you may need tomorrow. I know it’s super short notice, and we just met, but I really appreciate you agreeing to do this for me.”

“Hey,” they shrug, “work is work. As long as you’re serious about it, that is.”

“Of course!” Comes your immediate reply. “You’re also welcome to message me anytime! I really enjoyed talking with you today.”

“Me too,” they smile.

“Thanks for the recommendation, by the way.” You wiggle the pencil liner held in your hand.

“No worries at all.” They chuckle. “You looked like you were struggling, and I’m always happy to help.”

You begin to make your way towards the cash line with Zed in tow. Except, you notice them holding only one liner in their hand, as opposed to the two they had earlier.

“Are you not going to get the other one, too?” You tilt your head curiously. “It’s buy one, get one fifty percent off.”

“I don’t think two is in the budget for me right now,” they chuckle, somewhat embarrassedly. “Money’s a little tight between jobs.”

You pause momentarily, turning right back around and pulling the other product they had been looking at off the shelf before grabbing the other one that’s still held in their hand.

“What are you doing?” Their voice is a little frantic as they follow closely behind you.

“Buying something for my friend.” You reply, somewhat matter-of-factly. “What does it look like I’m doing?”

“You don’t have to!” Immediately, they begin to protest.

“Think of it as a small ‘thank you’ from me to you in advance of tomorrow.” You reply, stepping into line with them beside you. “Besides, I want to.”

They purse their lips slightly, shuffling from foot to foot before muttering out a low thanks.

“Don’t even worry about it!” You smile at Zed. “It’s my pleasure.”

Idly, you continue to chat with them as you wait to be cashed out. As soon as you’re done, you hand them their items while standing just outside the store.

“Thank you so much.” They breathe, almost in relief.

“Really, it’s no problem.” You smile, tucking your own items into your tote bag. “I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“Yeah! Just text me the details as soon as you can, and I’ll be there!” They reply eagerly, tucking their own products into their back pocket.

“Of course!” You wave as they begin to take their leave. “Talk to you later!”

The moment they’re out of sight, you cannot help but smile more to yourself. They were so nice, and you honestly loved every second of that interaction with them. If only more people were like them.

Adjusting the strap of your tote, you turn back to face the other shops lining the space. There’s really only one other store you’d like to check out before leaving to find a café soon.

On the way to the bookstore, you quickly text all of the information Zed will need for tomorrow to them. They reply quickly with a ‘thanks!’ And some excited emoticons.

Again, you grin to yourself, happy to have made a new friend.

Rounding the corner of the hallway, you spot the bookstore at the end of the row. The sign is bright, and you can see a bunch of people milling about the one section near the front. Despite this not being the store you’ll be having your signing in, there seems to be a large display of your books in the middle of the store. Luckily, your picture doesn’t seem to be anywhere near the table like the last bookstore you had visited.

Shuffling passed a few people, you’re quick to head over to the manga section. There’s a volume of Tokyo Ghoul in Korean that continues to elude you no matter how hard you try and find it. You really just want it to complete your collection at this point, and it has one of your favourite characters on the front.

Crouching down to look on the bottom shelf where you see the different volumes of the manga you’re looking for residing, you’re quick to scan them all. Your eyes practically light up as you see the one you’re looking for, only a sharp gasp coming from down the row draws your attention.

The sound of quick feet approaching you causes you to look up to see a girl and two guys rushing over to you.

“Hi, oh my gosh, are you the author of this book series?” The girl excitedly holds out a copy of the second novel in your first published series.

You blink up at her owlishly, “Uh…”

“You’re so cool! I really admire your work!” She squeals, drawing even more attention to yourself from the people around you.

“Thank you,” you smile politely.

“Anyways, I’m so sorry for interrupting you.” Her face immediately goes bright red as she averts her gaze. “Do you think I could get a quick picture before I leave?”

“Sure!” Slowly, you stand back to your feet.

Handing her phone to one of the guys behind her, the girl steps into your side. A wide smile is on her face as she throws up a peace sign, holding your book proudly on display. You immediately mirror her enthusiastic expression, heart warming at how happy she looks.

After a few pictures are taken, she’s turning to you once again.

“Thank you so much!” She bows lowly, nearly hitting her head on the table beside you with a full display of One Piece on it. “Again, sorry for bothering you!”

You have just enough time to mutter a ‘not at all’, before she’s giddily hopping away with the two other males in tow.

Turning back to the shelves of manga, you go to crouch down once more to pull the volume of Tokyo Ghoul off of the bottom.

“Hello, My Love.” A voice says from above you.

Figuring the person is talking to someone else, you opt to ignore them for now. Instead, you reach out to finally pull the volume off of the shelf.

A harsh clearing of someone’s throat is heard as a shadow looms above you.

“I said,”they say, much more firmly this time as they nudge you, not very gently, with their foot, “Hello, My Love.”

The sudden push causes you to stumble slightly, steadying yourself on the bookcase in front of you.

Turning your head, you peer up at the person, a slight frown tugging at your features. Quickly, you stand back to your feet as you see a male staring at you quite expectantly. He appears irritated, the corner of his lips tugging downwards, standing slightly shorter than you with his arms crossed over his chest.

“My bad, I didn’t realize you were speaking to me.” You incline your head in apology. “But please, don’t call me that.”

His brow quirks, clearly amused by your response. “Aren’t you into that shit, though?”

“Excuse me?”To say you’re caught off guard by his sudden attitude would be an understatement.

“You write about all that sappy romance stuff.” He replies.

“That doesn’t give you a right as a stranger to invade my personal space, or say something like that. I don’t know you.” You blink at him.

A puff of air escapes his nose in annoyance. “But you’re that author chick.”

“And?” Your brow furrows even further, taking a small step away from him.

“Come on, Baby, don’t be like that.” He sighs, his jaw twitching.

“You’re the one that approached me.” You counter. “And, please, don’t call me that.”

“You’re different than I thought you’d be.” He states, giving you a once over. “Bigger.”

“I’m sorry?” You recoil slightly, appalled by the sudden disgust on his features.

“I said you’re beautiful.”A sly grin pulls onto his features as he takes a step closer to you. “You’re not like other girls.”

You blink at him, quite rapidly at that in your state of shock. “What do you mean by that?”

“Oh, I think you know, Petal.” His eyes are suddenly hooded as he takes another step into you.

“Don’t call me that. Please.” You manage to slip around the corner of the table you’re standing beside.

“Why are you being so difficult?”The man mutters to himself, shaking his head. 

A call of someone’s name from the side draws both of your attention, and you see two more males staring intently at the one standing closest to you. The way they wear smug grins on their faces as they give you pointed once overs says it all.

“I’m getting there.” The man before you snaps at the two others.

“Did you want something?” It’s your own voice that seems to draw his attention back to you.

“Oh, look at you! You can speak a bit of Korean!” His tone is nothing short of condescending. “That’s wonderful!”

“I have nothing to say to you.” You state, rather bluntly before move to turn away from him. “Now, if you’ll excuse me.”

“Where are you going, My Dear?” The way he drawls out that nickname has a shiver of disgust running down your spine. The fact that he snatches your wrist in his hand has panic seizing your entire body.

“Please, stop calling me those names.” You yank your wrist out of his hold. “Don’t touch me, either.”

“Come on, Darling,” his eyes flash, “don’t be like that. I only want to please you. To show you my devotion-“

“Get away from me!” You begin to scramble away from him, noticing you’ve started to draw some attention from a few of the staff members working in the store.

The two other males suddenly turn and begin to head towards the exits while two staff members approach you.

“What’s wrong with you?” There is nothing but ire on his features as he spits out these words at you. “All I’m offering is a chance for you to recreate those sex scenes from your books with me. A once in a lifetime opportunity, if you ask me. It’s not like people are lining up to be with you, anyways. You should be grateful I’m even giving a fat bitch like you attention.”

“Is everything okay here?” An older gentleman with a name tag interrupts, looking between both you and the male before you.

“I’m sorry to cause a commotion, Sir.” The way you immediately incline your head in respect to the elder male clearly catches him off guard. That, and the fact that you actually answer him in proper Korean. “This man won’t leave me alone, and is making me extremely uncomfortable. He’s making rude and inappropriate comments towards me, and thinks he’s entitled to assault me.”

The woman standing beside the male gasps, recognition flashing in her eyes. Her one hand comes up to point at you, “You’re that author from the award’s show!”

This draws the attention of a few more people standing around you, whispers being heard as a few more people recognize you from the display of your books a few tables over.

Politely, you smile at the woman, nerves skyrocketing as more and more attention is brought upon you. Again, you incline your head in respect as she looks slightly younger than the man, but still older than you.

“You said this man was bothering you?” She immediately turns a sharp gaze to the person standing closest to you.

“I was just leaving.” He huffs, purposely brushing past you and bumping quite harshly into your side. “Fucking bitch.”

Eyes follow him all of the way out of the store as he rejoins his two friends in the hallway.

“Are you alright?” The older gentleman turns to look at you.

“Yes, thank you.” You once again bow to him. “I’m sorry, again, for causing a disruption.”

“It’s not your fault.” The lady shakes her head, immediately wrapping you gently in her arms and guiding you towards the back of the store. “Come with us, we’ll call security and have them escort you in case that man comes back.”

“Thank you, I really appreciate it.” You smile lightly, seeing as she sends a kind one back.

Looks like you’re not getting that volume of Tokyo Ghoul today, either.

Sitting in the staff room at the back of the store, you let out a long sigh. You clutch your tote close to yourself, purse resting between your feet on the floor. Your phone resides in your hands, and you scroll aimlessly through Tumblr while you wait for security to reach the bookstore.

Opening your messages, you’re quick to type one out.

You: Why do people feel entitled to another person?

Placing your phone upside-down on the table before you, you let out another sigh. Not even a moment later, you pick your phone back up.

Jongho: Did something happen?

Mingi:Is everything alright?

Hongjoong: Are you okay?

Your eyes widen at how quickly you’ve gotten responses, but that’s when you realize: you texted the wrong chat.

You: Shit, sorry! Wrong chat! Just forget I said anything.

Wooyoung: You message something as ominous as that and expect us NOT to be worried?

Yunho: Jongho’s already putting his shoes on.

You: Wait, does that mean you guys are done with practice for today?

Seonghwa: NO, we are NOT!

You:… you guys don’t wear shoes when you practice?

Yunho: We do, it was just a figure of speech.

San: He meant that Mingi and Yeosang are holding Jongho back from racing out the door as we speak.

You: Damn, this reminds me of my wondrous ‘protection squad’ days.

Seonghwa: Protection squad days?

You: Nevermind. Like I said, just forgot I said anything.

The door opens and in walks security. You take a few minutes to describe what happened and what the man that assaulted you looks like before the two guards are escorting you out of the store. One walks in front while the other walks behind you.

“We’ll lead you to your car, or the bus stop, and stay with you until you leave.” The one says to you.

“Thank you very much, I really appreciate it.” You bow slightly while walking.

The guard simply smiles at you from over his shoulder in response.

Once you’re on the correct bus on your way back to your apartment, you finally allow yourself to breathe a sigh of relief. Pulling out your phone, you check your notifications.

Immediately, you’re greeted by tons of worried messages from the boys, and even a few from some Stray Kids members. Looks like Wooyoung told Changbin, who in turn told Minho, Hyunjin, and Seungmin.

You: I promise I’m fine, just an uncomfortable encounter at a store.

Another round of messages are sent to you by the Ateez members, and you reassure them yet again.

You: Well, I could go for some boba now as a pick me up. Any of you know a good place in the area? The one by my house just closed for renos.

You notice a few of them typing a response before the first one comes in.

Yeosang: There’s one in the back alleys near Sinsa that’s really good. I’ll send you the address.

A moment later, a link to the Naver page is uploaded to the chat by Yeosang.

You: Thank you!!

Wooyoung: Daaaaaaamn Yeosang, you had that ready and LOADED

San: Don’t hate the man just cause he was prepared.

Yunho: Well, WE may have to prepare HIS funeral now

A photo of Yeosang being held in a headlock by Jongho is sent to you almost immediately after that message gets sent.

You laugh, a smile pulling at your features as you shake your head at your phone.

You: Don’t hate the player, hate the game.

A few more messages are sent between all of you, ending with you wishing them luck with the rest of practice. They eagerly tell you to come visit them soon, to which you reply that you will.

Twenty minutes later, and after switching buses once, you find yourself standing outside of the little boba shop Yeosang recommended to you. It has a cute little awning over the door, a soft pink in colour, while large windows line the front of the shop. It doesn’t look too busy, from what you can see, but the menu has a variety of options and you are more than eager to try them.

A small bell jingles as you enter the shop, the worker behind the counter smiling politely at you as you approach. Luckily, you already know what you want to order from looking at the sign outside, so you manage to do that fairly quickly. 

Five minutes later, you have your glass in hand as you seclude yourself in a corner seat. There’s a half-wall with plants resting on top of it to your left, while an open view of the store sits to your right. You’re directly across from the entranceway, but you cannot see the order counter, nor the worker anymore. Two more tables sit to your right, a small hallway stretching down after that towards where you’re sure the bathrooms reside.

Your tote rests on your left between your body and the wall, while your purse is on the booth beside you to your right. Considering you have a wall behind you, and there aren’t very many people in the shop, you feel comfortable enough to pull your laptop out. Once you’ve set everything up, you’re taking a sip of your drink while staring at the document you had been working on last night.

Scrolling back up to the top of the chapter, you begin.

Editing what you wrote the previous night takes some time, but by the time an hour has passed, you’ve start to write more for the chapter you’re currently on. It took a little bit of time, but you finally know how you want to end this particular scene, and you’re challenging yourself to see if you can finish it before you finish your drink.

Unfortunately for you, you’ve always been a fast drinker. Especially when you haven’t had much to drink all day.

The sound of another glass being placed onto the table before you draws your attention from your screen.

“Sorry to interrupt you,” it’s the worker you ordered your drink from before. “I saw your speech from the awards show when it aired, and I just wanted to say I really admire you. Thank you for everything you do! I didn’t want to say anything before since I was on the clock, but my shift just ended and I noticed you hadn’t left yet, so I wanted to say something before I went home.” They smile shyly, “and give you a refill of your drink. Work hard, and have a lovely day!”

“Oh, thank you so much!” You smile back at them as they clear your empty glass from the table. “That’s so kind of you!”

A nod is all you get in response as a soft blush begins to dust their features. Not even a moment later, they turn away, leaving you on your own once more.

Another hour and a half passes by with you furiously typing away at your laptop. You’d like to say that you hardly get distracted, but there seems to be this one person who has been constantly walking passed your table in hopes for you to notice them. The first few times, you glanced up, eyes being drawn to the movement given how close they were to your table, but by the fifth time, you started to ignore them.

That is, until they decided to actually approach your table.

The conversation was short, and awkward. They kept stuttering over their words, not to mention they kept interrupting you while you’re trying to work.

That’s the one thing that irritates you no matter what. Nothing is worse than being in the middle of writing a scene, deep in the flow of words, only to be interrupted or distracted by someone. Really, you know it’s not their fault, but you still cannot help your annoyance at the situation. Once or twice, you can brush it off, but the third time they do it, you’re a little blunt with them when you respond. You don’t mean to be, but alas, it happens.

Approximately fifteen minutes go by without another interruption, and you manage to finish the scene you’re working on. You’re almost done with the current chapter, and all that’s really left to do is round it out, and edit the final product. To say you’re happy with what you’ve done would be an understatement.

This time, when you notice someone approaching your table, you don’t even bother to glance up. You figure it’s that person coming to bother you again, so you opt to continue typing away at your laptop, staring intently at your screen.

The sound of two glasses being placed onto the table has your ears quirking, even more so when you hear the chair across from you scraping against the floor.

A tremendous sigh escapes you, “Look-“

Your words die in your throat as you see the person now sitting across from you. They wear a black bucket hat, strands of what appears to be newly bleached hair sticking out from beneath the material. They blink at you with somewhat wide eyes, freezing in their movement of pushing a brand new cup of boba towards you.

“Yeosang?” You keep your voice low, blinking at him in mild shock. “What are you doing here?”

He smiles faintly, resuming his motion of pushing that one drink towards you. “Practice ended early.”

It is then that you glance at the time, seeing that it’s starting to become late into the afternoon. You honestly haven’t been keeping a close track of time while you’ve been here, only truly registering how long you’ve actually been writing for.

Softly, you close your laptop. “Aren’t you worried about being spotted?”

“Not here.” He shakes his head. “It’s actually a really common spot for a lot of us. The staff are discreet, and not many people know about it.”

Briefly, that interaction with that one worker earlier who brought you your second drink flashes through your mind. You smile in understanding, “I see.”

“Are you okay, though?” He blinks a few times, innocently. “You seemed irritated when I got here.”

Your eyes quickly scan the shop, not seeing that person who kept bothering you earlier in their spot by the windows.

“Better now,” you reply, honestly. “Just kept getting distracted, is all.”

“I thought you didn’t like using your laptop in public?” He quirks a brow, taking a sip of his own drink.

“When I’m up against the wall, anything goes.” You shrug, and almost immediately, he starts choking on his drink. “Oh my god, are you okay?”

He waves you off, hitting his chest with a fist lightly. 

Soon after, he clears his throat. “I’m good.”

“Good.” You chuckle faintly. “Last thing I need is your fans coming after me for choking out their favourite member.”

“I think you should be more worried about Wooyoung.” He comments, a hint of irritation on his face.

Your brow furrows, “Why?”

“He’d be next in line.”

Your eyes nearly bug out of your head.

“I-“ you blink rapidly a few times, swallowing the sudden dryness in your throat. “Are you implying Wooyoung wants me to choke him?”

“He’s not the only one.” Yeosang replies, a slight bitterness lingering in his tone. “Mingi has spent many a night ranting about how he wants to be suffocated between your-“

Yeosang seemingly catches himself in the last second as he spares a glance at you.

Your mouth hangs open in pure disbelief, blinking at him in shock. You hands rest on the table before you, a vibrant heat rising to your cheeks. Of course, you can most certainly incur where Yeosang was going when he was speaking just now, your heartbeat thundering in your ears.

“Sorry.” He averts his gaze, somewhat embarrassed.

In the next moment, you’re shaking your head.

“No, no,” you manage to organize your thoughts, clearing your throat, “I’m just surprised, is all.”

“What? Surprised that some idols have horny fantasies, too?” He quirks a brow, slight amusement shining in his eyes.

“Oh, no.” Your nose scrunches as you shake your head mildly. “If they read my books and thoroughly enjoy them, that fact doesn’t surprise me at all.”

“Then, why do you look so shocked?” He tilts his head slightly in inquiry.

Your lips pull back in a tight smile. “Don’t worry about it.”

“I’m curious, though.” He blinks, taking another sip of his drink.

You reach out to grab the full glass, noticing how the drink appears to be the same one you’ve been drinking since you got here: matcha milk tea with pearls.

“You’re aware I am a fan of Ateez, correct?” You look at him somewhat expectantly.

“Believe me, I’m well aware.” He nods along with your words.

From the way he still stares at you, with those wide eyes, has you exhaling lowly.

“Let me put it this way,” you take a sip of your drink, noticing how the label said it had been made with soy milk. In the back of your head, you wonder if he knows you’re lactose intolerant, or if it was just a personal choice on his part. “How would you feel if you suddenly found out Emma Watson admitted to having sexual fantasies about you?”

Yeosang freezes right before your very eyes, nodding slowly as realization crosses his features. Then, as if making another connection, his brow furrows.

“You find Mingi attractive.” The statement is a bit blunt as he says this, grip tightening over his drink.

“I thought I told you that I find all of you attractive?” You quirk a brow playfully at him in response.

“Right.” He nods, seemingly in recollection before halting all movement once more. “But you desire Mingi.”

If you didn’t know any better, you’d say that hint of bitterness is back in his voice again.

“I desire many things, Yeosang,” you begin. “That doesn’t mean I’m going to indulge in them.”

“But you would if he offered?” He places his glass a bit firmly back onto the top of the table.

“Probably not.” Your face scrunches slightly as you consider his words. “I don’t know him like that. I don’t know any of you like that, and it takes a lot for me to be intimate with another person in such a way.” You meet his gaze. “Are you familiar with the term demisexual?”

The way he blinks at you blankly is answer enough.

“It means a person has to have a strong emotional connection with someone before experiencing sexual attraction.” You explain.

He shakes his head, still not quite understanding.

“It means I don’t do hookups.” You add. “Hookup culture is not for me.”

Understanding crosses his features as his lips part slightly, a soft ‘oh’ falling from him in the next second.

“On top of that, I am also demiromantic.” You continue. “Meaning the same thing, only this time it’s considering romantic attraction. It takes a lot for me to fall in love, and it takes a lot for me to be intimate with someone.”

“So, you wouldn’t-“

“No.” You shake your head, cutting him off. “I may have desires, Yeosang, but there is a huge difference between reality and fiction.”

His eyes narrow slightly at you in response, and you can practically see the gears turning in his head.

“You’ve fantasized before? About your bias?”

You nearly spit out your drink as you go to take a sip. Coughing a few times, you rub at your chest, noticing how he hasn’t torn his eyes off of you for a single second.

“I’ve fantasied more about my own characters.” You admit once you finally manage to get your breathing back under control.

“That’s not a ‘no’,” he hums, brow quirks slightly in amusement.

“Why? Suddenly curious about whether or not I’ve fantasized about you?” You turn the question back on him, noticing how he begins to splutter almost immediately.

The way red begins to slowly creep up his neck has you laughing.

“I’m just kidding.” You reach across the table to pat his hand gently. “Though, I could have sworn you were about to ask me about my Ateez bias again.”

He averts his eyes only briefly, “no.”

“I mean, if you want to know, I don’t mind telling you.” You shrug. “We are alone, and you did buy me a drink.”

You can see the sudden eager gleam in his eyes as he leans the slightest bit forward in his seat. His lips part, and you hear the breath he takes before his shoulders seemingly deflate. 

You quirk a brow.

He shakes his head, somewhat dejected. “I’d rather not.”

The way he suddenly looks tense before you has you cautiously trailing your gaze over him in response. You’re about to ask if he’s sure of not, but at the way he shakes his head, almost absentmindedly as his hand tightens around his drink once more is all the answer you need.

So, you decide to change the subject.

“How was practice?” Your soft inquiry seems to manage to pull him out of your thoughts.

You take another sip of your drink as he responds, a gentle tug of his lips upwards as he recounts the way Hongjoong had to chase Wooyoung at one point to continue learning the new choreography.

“You should have seen the way Jongho practically lunged at his phone each time it pinged.” Yeosang half rolls his eyes. “He thought it was you every time.”

Your eyebrows raise in amusement, swirling the contents of your drink around in your hand. Honestly, your heart warms at the thought of Jongho being so excited to message you that he literally jumps at his phone every time.

“I thought you guys said I wouldn’t be a distraction?” You tease. “Just imagine what it would be like if I was actually there.”

“You think Mingi’s bad for using his pelvis during concerts?” Yeosang shakes his head, almost exasperatedly.

You laugh, tossing your head back as your eyes crinkle at the sides.

Again, once you manage to calm down, you notice Yeosang staring at you exactly like he did that first day you met him on the plane. Though, again, you brush it off.

“Well, I know for a fact the Mingi Stans are not complaining.” You grin. “You should see the amount of videos my friends who bias him send me of him when he does those things. It’s fun watching them freak out over it.”

“But you don’t?” He quirks a brow.

“Maybe I do, maybe I don’t.” You shrug casually. “I have my own selection of videos and pictures of my biases that ruin me in the best ways.”

“Ah, so you’re not immune.” He nods in understanding.

“Oh, most definitely not.” You snort. “I am just as…” you hum, searching for the right word, “feral as some of my friends. You just haven’t seen it, yet.”

“Are you offering to show me?” He quirks a brow.

“Depends.” The corner of your lips quirk upwards deviously. “When’s your next comeback, again?”

Yeosang leans back in his chair, observing you carefully. “You know, now that we’re friends, I think you should hype us all up more.”

“I can do that.” You readily agree. “Next comeback, I’ll give you all my live reactions. Well… within reason.”

“I look forward to it.” He grins.

“If the other guys get weirded out by it, then I’m blaming you.” You point an accusatory finger at him playfully.

“I’ll take full responsibility.” He raises his own hands in front of himself, almost as if in mock self-defence.

“You better,” you joke. “I don’t wanna lose my new friends that quickly. I really enjoy talking with you guys.”

Yeosang’s lips twitch upwards faintly in the corners, almost involuntarily. “I enjoy talking with you, too.”

“Oh?” You quirk a teasing brow. “Even when we flirt in front of you? Which we weren’t, by the way.”

Yeosang’s lips part, mouth opening and closing in protest despite no words escaping him.

“Nah, I’m just kidding,” you playfully pat his hand that he still has resting on top of the table. “If I ever make you uncomfortable, don’t be afraid to tell me. Boundaries are important, especially when they’re your own.”

“I will.” He smiles faintly.

“Same goes for if I start rambling too much, or if I’m being annoying, or if-“

“You’re not annoying.” The suddenness that Yeosang cuts you off with surprises you. “Why would you think you’re annoying?”

“I, uh-“

“Who told you that you’re annoying?” His brow furrows, clear confusion on his face. There’s something else there, you can see it shining behind his eyes, but you’re unsure of what it could be.

“Just a general comment,” you smile, somewhat tightly at him in response.

“Oh.” He seems to calm down, if only slightly. “Well, don’t think that you’re annoying. You’re not. I enjoy talking with you, and I enjoy listening to you speak.”

You blink in mild shock, a shy smile pulling at your lips as you avert your gaze.

“Thank you, Yeosang. That really means a lot to me.”

“Don’t be afraid to be yourself around me.” He swirls the content of his drink around slightly. “I quite like the real, unfiltered you.”

Your breath hitches in your throat, and you cannot help the way your back straightens. However, before you can so much as thank him again, he’s clearing his throat.

“So,” he stares intently at the contents of his drink. “What’s your favourite colour?”

You think this is probably the most talkative you’ve ever witnessed Yeosang to be, and to say you’re caught off guard is an understatement. You both continue to ask each other questions, laughing and getting to know each other better as the time continues to pass around you.

Before you know it, another hour and a half has passed, and you notice that the sun is beginning to set in the distance. Though, that’s not the only thing you’ve started to notice.

For the past twenty minutes or so, you’ve spotted two girls sitting a little ways away from your own table. They constantly peer over towards you, whispering quite loudly to each other while staring between both you and Yeosang. 

You’re starting to get worried. The last thing you know he needs is word to get out that he’s been seen out with a girl. The setting could heavily imply a date, and that fact alone is enough to have you swallowing nervously. He doesn’t need a scandal, and you would hate for that to happen, especially since you consider all of Ateez to be your friends now.

“I’ll be right back.” Yeosang whispers lowly as he pushes his chair out from the table.

You find you can only nod in response, watching as he disappears down the hallway to your right for the moment.

Carefully, you observe the girls after pulling out your phone. Resting it on the table, you begin to put your laptop away, cleaning up your mess to appear as if you’re getting ready to leave. Every now and then, you glance to them, straining your ears to attempt to overhear their conversation.

“No, I’m positive that’s him.” The one says. “I saw this online forum post about how this place is common ground for a lot of idols, especially him.”

“It’s hard to tell since he’s wearing a hat, and not looking in our direction.” The other replies, not as lowly as the first girl who spoke. “Besides, why would he be out with someone like her?”

The first girl shrugs. “Maybe it was a dare, or a private contest.”

“He seems to be having a good time.” The second one bitterly mutters.

“He could be pretending.”

“He’s not that great of an actor.”

Your eyes widen slightly. Some fans they seem to be, considering how they seem to be acting right now. Still, their conversation worries you.

“We should follow them when they leave. It looks like she’s packing up, anyways.” The first one whispers again to her friend.

Your heart drops, and you find yourself grabbing your phone. You do your best to appear casual as you open your messages to send one to Yeosang privately.

You: Bad news. It looks like those two girls sitting behind us might have recognized you. They think we’re on a date, but they’re not 100% convinced you are who they think you are.

You just hope he sees your message before he comes back out.

A moment later, you see he’s replied.

Yeosang: We should leave then.

You:Great plan!!

You: Except that I overheard them saying they’re going to follow us to find out if you are who they think you are. You’re lucky you’re wearing that hat.

You: Wait, I have an idea.

You: Call me crazy, but I think we might be able to fool them into thinking that they’re wrong about who you really are.

Yeosang: What do you have in mind?

You: Keep your head down when you come back out, and then just follow my lead.

Yeosang: That sounds ominous.

You: I know. You’re going to have to trust me, though. Can you do that, Yeo?

It takes a moment for him to respond, and you cannot help the way your one finger taps at the side of your phone nervously as you wait.

Yeosang: I trust you.

You: Heads up: I’m about to get up close and personal with you real quick. I won’t purposely do anything to make you uncomfortable, I promise you that, but if we want to make this believable, we’re going to have to act like a couple.

Again, it takes a moment for him to respond, and you can feel your heart positively thundering inside of your chest. Anxiety floods your veins, and already you can feel your palms beginning to sweat. You just hope you look calmer than you feel.

Yeosang: I trust you.

You: Alright. Wait another minute and a half or so, and then come back out. Make sure all of your hair is tucked beneath your hat, too.

Placing your phone onto the top of the table, you’re quick to reach into your purse. Digging around beneath your wallet, you manage to pull out the case you’re looking for.

You place it onto the table, right next to your phone.

Turning to your opposite side, you rummage around in your tote bag. A small black box is pulled out, and you’re quick to open it. A small tube of lipstick falls into your open palm, and you toss the now empty container back into your tote.

Grabbing your phone, you make a show of using your reflection to apply the shade to your lips, making sure it’s evenly applied before you’re standing back to your feet. Then, you’re reaching over to grab your bags, slinging your purse over your one shoulder while you hold onto the tote in your hand. Once your other hand is free, you grab your phone and slide it into your back pocket before grabbing that case from on top of the table. 

Luckily, as you had been talking with Yeosang, he had already managed to finish his drink. He also took the liberty to return the empty glasses to the front, so all you have left is to give your final glass back to the worker behind the counter.

A few steps later, and you do just that, your tote hanging off of your arm lightly. You can just feel the gazes of those two girls following you the whole time, and just as you cross the small space of the boba shop, you see Yeosang appear from the back hallway. His head is angled downwards, pretending to look at something on his phone, and you notice how his hair is now completely tucked beneath that hat of his.

Purposefully, you make a show of skipping the rest of the way over to him eagerly.

“Kyungmin!” You giggle, pulling him closer to you by his wrist. A gentle kiss is placed onto the side of his exposed cheek, a red lipstick stain now painting his skin. “Let’s go get tteokbokki! I’m hungry!”

Quickly, you begin dragging him out of the shop, handing him both your tote bag to carry, and that small case held in your hands.

“Don’t forget to put your glasses back on. I know you hate them, but I think they make you look so handsome!” You purposely stand on his right side, blocking him as much as you can from the two girl’s view. Luckily, your height practically swamps him, his figure hidden quite easily behind your frame.

Yeosang is quiet, nodding faintly to your words as he walks beside you. He’s already tucked his phone into his pocket, opening up the case with your glasses inside seamlessly. He’s quick to slip them on as you step outside, wrapping your one arm around his shoulders as you walk down the deserted back alleys.

Unfortunately, you can practically hear the two girls scrambling after you once you get a certain distance down the street.

Subtly, you lean into Yeosang’s side.

“They’re still intent on following us.” You whisper lowly as you pick up your pace.

“What are we going to do?” There’s a slight panic to his voice that you notice almost immediately.

“Do you trust me?” Your eyes dart to another, more secluded alleyway you can see up ahead.

Yeosang swallows thickly before nodding his head.

In the blink of an eye, you’ve pulled him into that side alley. Your left hand rests beside his head, blocking his view from the entranceway, but also ensuring his face is covered should the two girls come rushing around the corner.

“We don’t have much time, but we have to make it convincing that we’ve just been making out.” You say, quite bluntly as you lean into him.

You swear Yeosang’s eyes nearly bulge out of his head.

“We can’t slip up now, and the staging is important.” You bring your right hand up and lick your thumb, moving to smear some of your lipstick in the next second. “I’m really sorry it’s come to this, but I think it will work.”

Yeosang’s eyes briefly dart downward, and you assume he’s now staring at the stain of red on your thumb. He swallows thickly. “I trust you.”

Moving as precisely as you can, you begin to smear some of that red on your thumb on the corner of his mouth.

“I’m really sorry for doing this, I swear to you I’m not just making you do this for the adrenaline kick.” Your words are rushed, and you swallow the dryness in your throat. “Luckily with my height I can cover you, but you’re going to have to make it look like you’re grabbing onto me. Most people are startled and embarrassed if they catch a pretty heated pda session. I’m going to bet they won’t stick around to find out afterwards.”

He nods his understanding.

“I’m going to put my knee slightly between your legs, okay?” You keep your voice low.

“Okay.” Yeosang replies, somewhat breathlessly.

Any second now.

“Grab the back of my neck with your left hand, and angle your face towards mine. Put your right on the back of my waist. Slip it lower if you think it’ll be more believable.” You instruct, giving him an impromptu lesson on stage kissing and angles. You may not actually be pressed against him, but it most certainly will look like you are, and that’s the most important part.

Instantly, his hands are on you, and you feel him pull you closer. Whether it’s subconscious or not, you don’t know. All you do know is that his right hand rests just above the curve of your ass, and your breath hitches slightly from his touch.

You squeeze your eyes shut, feeling your blood rushing through your veins as your anxiety continues to skyrocket. You just hope beyond everything that this works.

You hear the sound of feet hitting the pavement, and a sharp gasp followed by a loud exclamation of ‘oh my god!’.

Slowly, you turn your head to face the opening of the alleyway, seeing the two girls standing there. Red is clear on both of their faces as they splutter in their spots, shifting their gazes everywhere around the alleyway but at you.

Your eyes narrow, irritation shining on your features as you glare at the two girls for ‘interrupting’ you.

“What?” Your voice is nothing short of sharp as you finally speak.

The two girls remain silent, attempting to stutter out an answer.

“Do you mind? I haven’t seen him in two months, and I’d really love to spend some time with my boyfriend.” You snap, a prominent frown on your features.

“We’re so sorry!” The one girl immediately bows to you, quite clumsily. “We just thought-“

“What? You thought what?” You cut her off, shifting slightly so your head is turned more towards her while your body still covers the majority of Yeosang’s.

You can feel his grip tighten over you, but you choose to ignore it for now.

“We thought he was Kang Yeosang from Ateez.” The other girl replies, somewhat ashamedly.

“And that gives you the right to stalk us?” Your gaze narrows once more. You scoff. “Why would Kang Yeosang from Ateez be out at this time of day? Here, of all places? He’s probably at a schedule or something. He is an idol, after all.”

That’s when you realize: these girls don’t recognize you. For that, you’re grateful.

They remain quiet.

“You hear that, babe?” You purposely turn back to Yeosang. “These girls think you look like an idol! I told you you were handsome! I don’t want to hear another doubt about yourself come out of your mouth again.”

The way you’re leaning into him makes it look like you’ve placed another kiss onto his cheek. Yet, only you and he know that your lips never grace his skin.

“We’re sorry for interrupting.” The first girl bows clumsily to you again, shoving her friend back the way they came.

“I told you it wasn’t Yeosang!” You can hear the one friend harshly whisper to the other.

“You were right.” You hear the other sigh. “Besides, he wouldn’t be caught dead with an ugly bitch like that, anyways.”

The moment you hear their voices fade away into the distance, their footsteps no longer resounding against the pavement, you’re breathing a sigh of relief. A light smile paints your features as you turn back to face Yeosang, immediately moving to step away from him.

Only, the feeling of his hands tightening around you has you clearing your throat, seemingly snapping him out of whatever daze he seems to be in.

“You can let go now.” You mumble lowly.

“Oh.” Immediately, his hands retract, as if burned. “Right. Sorry.”

You notice Yeosang shifting slightly back and forth on his feet, a frown soon marring his brow as he looks down at the ground.

“Thanks for trusting me,” you smile at him, rummaging around in your purse for that pack of tissues he gave you that one day at rehearsal. “I’m so sorry for invading your space like that and subjecting you to be my fake boyfriend just now. I swear to you I wasn’t just doing that to cop a feel, or say you’re my boyfriend, or anything weird or creepy like that.”

“It’s alright.” He smiles assuringly at you. “I didn’t mind at all.”

Heat immediately rises to your cheeks from his words, handing him a few tissues so he can wipe the lipstick from his face.

“I’m just glad it worked.” You breathe a low sigh of relief.

“Me too.” He smiles, rubbing at his cheek with a tissue.

Still, he swears that he can feel the tips of his fingers tingling from where they had just been pressed against your skin. His heart absolutely pounds in his chest, and he can’t seem to erase the feeling of your body barely pressed against his. Really, he wouldn’t have minded if you actually touched him, but then again, he thinks he probably wouldn’t be able to stand right now if that had been the case.

“So,” your voice catches his attention, a light smile painting your face as you adjust the strap of your purse over your shoulder, “You hungry?”

[peachyscenes]

ateez recs: fic series edition

these are fics that have genuinely changed my brain chemistry. most are ot8/ateez ensemble.

the places between us by @written-in-flowers

HOLY SHIT! warning for anyone who comes across this, it is a HEAVY read. lots of content that may feel uncomfortable. oh my godddd the way i was screaming at the protagonist for making stupid decisions. honestly one of the best reads i've had in a while i won't lie to you.

clair de lune by @atzfilm

this series had me gripping my fucking sheets. it was so so good and i wish i could read it for the first time again. this one also has slightly heavy themes so warning to those who wanna read it.

into the aurora by @honeyhotteoks

lots of crying, sobbing, and even more crying. they all love each other so much, this is what i show to people when they ask me what love means. everyone is a ride or die here.

like a waltz by @justbelievinginmagic

i actually found this gem on ao3 (WE LOVE YOU AO3 🫶🫶). ateez are all red flags in this but i'm just like the protagonist, COLORBLIND ASF! not her fault though #letherdance. it's not completed yet but definitely recommend!!!

like the moon by @sunmoonjune

FREE BUG!!! SHE JUST WANTS TO HAVE A FAMILY!!! FUCK HER DAD!!! ateez clan are bug's ride or dies and i stand with them!!!

the answer by @berryunho

hongjoong is so fucking uncanny in this. every time he's up to no good i hear music from hereditary playing. ALSO FUCK YOU SAN!!!

in love and lore by @shadowynn

y/n helps someone and suddenly gets eight lovers, can we give her 5 big booms?

hotel california + paradise gardens by @mint-yooxgi

give me whatever the protagonist has (minus the people that are targeting her). 8 HOT lovers who would give me the world, genuinely love me, and got MONEY?? ladies, don't EVER settle for less.

not all that glitters is gold by @the7thcrow

TOOOOO GOOOODDD. i wanna give wooyoung a hug but also punch him.

pirate king by @chaseatinydream

the first ateez x reader i read and it was so beautiful. the lore the storytelling the world buildup was top tier and i wouldn't change a single thing about this. i love that the protagonist is her own character and while i love an x reader where i can imagine myself, this is so incredibly well made.

cat's cradle by @raincoreee

i have no idea when this'll update (i have hope) but sannie is a cat and reader is gender neutral!!

don't forget to support and show love to these amazing authors. may fanfiction never die 🙏🙏🙏

[yunhoee]

A Trip to Remember- Chapter Two

Summary: The year is 2031, and y/n is looking for a fresh start on her vacation with her sister. 3 months post breakup, and she's ready to stop wallowing. Korea has been a dream location for y/n for years, she is excited for all the sightseeing and food! Her sister has other plans, when she suggests attending a certain someone's charity birthday event.

Pairing: idol!Seonghwa x corporate!reader

Genre: fluff, romance, angst, seonghwa x reader, ateez ensemble, suggestive, cursing

Length: 4,643 words

Author’s Note: I'm still figuring out Tumblr, so an updated masterlist will be coming soon. I hope you enjoy the second chapter! :)

You’re surprised by how forward Seonghwa is, but you also can’t deny the sexual tension you’ve been running from the moment you met him. The way he’s fiddling with your dress strap while he waits for your answer, all while staring into your eyes. You feel the electricity in the air, it scares you, but you’re too busy staring into his brown eyes.

“Okay,” You say shyly.

Seonghwa smiles with so much endearment, “Okay.” He waits a moment and then decides to ask, “Do you mind telling me about yourself? I want to know more about you.”

You nod, “I’m a manager for a tech company, I’ve spent years working to get where I am now. I’m 35, and well you’ve met my only sibling.” You both smile at the mention of Emma. You’re not very good at coming up with fun facts so you ask, “Is there anything specific you want to know?”

Seonghwa hesitates and then asks, “Are you single? You don’t have to answer that if it’s too personal.”

You smile, “It’s okay. I am single, I went through a pretty bad breakup a little over 3 months ago. Actually, this trip was my way of a fresh start. I was tired of being sad, and my ex started officially dating his mistress. I’m ready to move past that time of my life. We were together for 5 years, but I don’t miss him at all.” You giggle and look at Seonghwa, “Is that bad?”

He laughs, “Not at all! I’m sorry that it didn’t end well, that must’ve been really hard. But look at you! In Korea, riding with me to an after party. Would the past y/n believe it?”

You start laughing, “Absolutely not! I’ve been working 24/7 for the last 3 months, but I meant it when I said this trip is my fresh start. I’m not going back to how I was.”

Seonghwa grabs your hand, “I’m so proud of you, y/n. I know we just met, but you’re really inspiring. I was completely blown away from your generosity towards the orphanage in Jinju. Now hearing what the last few months have been like for you, I am captivated by you.”

Your eyes widen as the blush spreads across your cheeks, “I-I just really enjoy helping people financially. It’s one of the major perks of my job.”

Seonghwa smiles, gently puts his hand on your cheek, and leans in, “You didn’t say anything about the last part.”

His cologne fills the air you breathe. His touch is like fire to your cheek. When Seonghwa is this close, your thoughts are less reasonable and more on instinct. How are you supposed to be making good decisions while Seonghwa is holding you like this? You thought the sexual tension was bad before, well it’s a hundred times worse now. You’re scared to move, to blink. Fighting every ounce of your body to not just jump him right here right now. You notice his other hand that’s not on you, is shaking. The thread you had left of self control snapped, and you kissed him. 

It’s not just a kiss, it doesn’t feel like one you’ve had before. Seonghwa quickly reciprocates, fully making out now. The feeling you get is unlike one you’ve experienced. Most first kisses are a little awkward with silly mistakes. Not this one. It was like your mouths were made for each other and fit perfectly. You didn’t know anything besides the fact that you needed more. The kiss has turned frantic, you both need more of each other right now. It was like a dam breaking, there was no stopping this now. 

“Oh shit! We were wondering what was taking so long!” 

You find yourself straddling Seonghwa. His arms wrapped tightly around your waist, and your hands holding his face. The two of you look absolutely horrified, and you clumsily get back into your seat. Wooyoung wished so badly that he had a camera. 

Seonghwa clears his throat, “Sorry about that. Give us a second.” Seonghwa closes the car door. Wooyoung is laughing maniacally, most likely running to tell the rest of the members.  

You both sit quietly for a moment, fully back down to earth. Seonghwa’s kiss sent you to outer fucking space. 

You decide to break the silence, “I’m really sorry about that. I’m not sure what overcame me. I’m sorry if that made you un-”

Your sentence is cut off by him grabbing your chin, pulling you in for a sweet kiss. He pulled away, but is still close and is looking directly into your eyes. 

He smooths out your hair with his hands and says, “Don’t do that. Not with me.”

You open your mouth to ask what he means, but you can’t form the words. He doesn’t even have to tell you, you already know. This is the fastest and most connected you feel to a person in this moment, and you would be lying if you said it didn’t scare you. 

Seonghwa goes back to his side of the car, “You might want to fix that red lipstick.”

You finally notice how smudged Seonghwa’s face is with your lipstick. You’re embarrassed, but it’s also kinda hot. The two of you spend the next ten minutes removing every trace of your time together. 

He sighs, “Wooyoung has probably told everyone by now. I wouldn’t be surprised if your sister knows.”

You cover your face in an attempt to hide your blush, “Oh god. I’m never going to hear the end of this.” Seonghwa chuckles and gently pulls your hands from your face, “That makes two of us. We should probably head in, I’m sure everyone is waiting for us now.”

“Alright, let's get this over with then,” You say as you open your door.

Seonghwa looks you over once to make sure you didn’t miss anything. You notice a bit of red lipstick on his neck. Your face is turning red again, but you reach out and wipe the lipstick off. 

Seonghwa has a mischievous smile, “I left that there on purpose. I wanted them to see how you marked me.”

You lightly smack his arm and whine, “Stooooop. I’m going to be permanently red at this point.”

Seonghwa smiles and kisses your cheek, “I like it.”

The two of you walk into KQ together, trying to act as normal as possible. Seonghwa explains that the party is happening in their cafeteria. You see birthday decorations lining the walls, and hear music blaring from what you assume is the cafeteria. The two of you walk in, you spot your sister sitting at a table and head for her. 

“Hey guys!” You and Seonghwa greet everyone at the table. 

Hongjoong responds, “Ah there’s the birthday boy. We were wondering if you two were ever going to show up.” Everyone at the table is looking between you and Seonghwa as you sit next to your sister. Seonghwa takes the chair next to Hongjoong, which is a few people away from you.

Seonghwa comes up with an excuse, “Yeah sorry our driver took the wrong turn, so we were stuck in traffic.”

Emma stares directly at Seonghwa, “Is that so? How interesting, we heard a completely different story from Wooyoung. Something about Seonghwa being covered in y/n’s lipstick, and y/n sitting on your-”

You cover Emma’s mouth, “Anyway! We’re here now! Let’s drink and have some fun!”

Emma removes your hand from her, and she has the biggest smirk on her face. Before she can say anything, you shoot up from your chair.

“I-I’m going to get a drink!” You manage to say as you’re walking over to the makeshift bar. 

You miss the way that Seonghwa follows you with his eyes the entire time. Emma didn’t. The rest of the table is engrossed in their conversations, so Emma catches Seinghwa’s eye and motions for him to sit next to her.

He’s sweating bullets and sits down, “What’s up?”

Emma chuckles, “I’m just going to be honest. I thought maybe you and my sister would hookup, I was actually hoping you would. I’m confused though. I’ve seen the way you look at her, the way you just watched her walk over to the bar. Do you have feelings for her?”

Seonghwa is taken back by Emma’s boldness, “Uh-I mean I really enjoy being around her. I just want to get to know her more, since we only just met tonight.”

Emma doesn’t fully believe it but doesn’t push it, “Okay. I didn’t mean to come off so strong, I was just surprised since you just met. But just between the two of us, I’m rooting for you.”

Emma and Seonghwa smile at each other, and he goes back to his seat before you come back. You’re at the bar, and decide to take another shot before coming back with a mixed drink. As you walk back to the table, you notice a girl you haven’t met before. She sits in the open chair next to Seonghwa. Something inside of your stomach drops, you already have a feeling something bad is going to happen. You sit back in your chair, and already notice that this girl is doing everything she can to flirt with Seonghwa. 

The alcohol is pumping through you at this point. You’re fully tipsy, as you continue sipping on your drink. 

Emma grabs your hand, “Let’s dance!”

She pulls you along with Nari, and the three of you walk to the makeshift dance floor. 

“Who the fuck is that girl sitting with Seonghwa?” Emma asks Nari as soon as you all are far away enough. 

Nari looks and rolls her eyes, “It’s one of the manager’s nieces. She’s been trying to get with one of the members for years.”

You notice the way Seonghwa and this girl are laughing together. Talking as if they’ve known each other forever. It makes your stomach turn. You down the rest of your mixed drink, which you already know is a bad idea but you really don’t care.

Emma is visibly annoyed, “Okay but why is he being so friendly with her? Wasn’t he just making out with my sister?”

Nari sighs, “Well the boys have to be careful with her, they don’t want anyone getting in trouble. Seonghwa is probably just being friendly, I’m more worried about what she will do.”

Your eyes start to burn, you didn’t notice that tears were forming. Nari and Emma immediately notice, and pull you so you’re not facing him anymore.

Nari tries to comfort you, “I wouldn’t worry about it, y/n. People flirt with the members all the time and nothing ever happens. I think Seonghwa is just being nice.”

Emma rolls her eyes, “Well we also feel like being extra friendly. Nari, do you know any guys who would want to dance with us?”

Nari’s eyes light up, “Oh my god you’re diabolical. Let me go find some of the members from bbtrippin!”

All you know is the music is blaring, and you are dancing on someone. Nari brought a bunch of her work friends over to dance. The alcohol hit you hard, quickly becoming drunk and having zero care in the world. The staff was well prepared for this. The room is dark, but they brought in different portable strobe lights. 

The guy who is dancing with you is one of the cute dancers from bbtrippin. Everyone is just letting go and having fun, nothing serious. The music is mainly a mix of songs that are popular, not just ateez. But the next song that started was Bouncy, and everyone went crazy. Now everyone is singing and dancing even more. Someone bumps into you, and you see it’s Hongjoong. So then you and Hongjoong start singing and dancing together. The two of you are drunk, and just having the best time. Even in your drunken state, this still feels like the best night of your life. 

Someone turned on Cyberpunk, and the members couldn’t help but get into formation. Everyone was laughing their asses off, the members were all so drunk. Obviously they weren’t in their right mind enough to sing as well, but it was crazy to see how their bodies moved almost automatically. They were all giggling so much, it was so cute. At the end, we all clapped for them as they fell into the nearest seats panting. 

Everyone is laughing and finding an open seat. You unintentionally make eye contact with Seonghwa who is sitting across from you. It looked like he was about to say something to you, but was interrupted by the girl from earlier who came and sat in his lap. He looked surprised, but didn’t immediately push her off. It feels like someone dumped ice water over your head, you feel yourself starting to sober up almost immediately. You’re not sure why you feel a pit in your stomach, it’s not like you guys were dating. You watch Seonghwa flirt openly with her, whispering something in her ear. She giggles and you stand and start to walk away, before Hongjoong stops you.

He looks concerned, “What’s wrong?”

You put on your best show, hoping he doesn’t notice the tears brewing in your eyes, “Nothing! I just have to pee.”

Hongjoong reluctantly lets you leave. You take this as your chance to get the fuck out of here. It’s 1am, so you book a car to come pick you up. Thank god Emma downloaded the app for you at the hotel. At this point you’re nearly sprinting out of KQ, you know it’s only a matter of time until your sister realizes you left. Especially since you know you weren’t very convincing to Hongjoong. Once you finally find the right car, you’re on your way back to the hotel. You decide to text Emma, now that there’s no way for her to stop you.

Hey! I’m in a cab headed back to the hotel. Sorry, I wasn’t feeling well. Have fun and stay safe! Let me know if you need money for anything. 

Emma instantly starts calling you. You feel guilty, but you also can’t talk to her right now. What are you supposed to say? You made out with Seonghwa, and then you saw him flirting with another girl, and now you’re crying in a cab. You’re sure that Emma has already figured it out anyway. 

You finally make it back to the hotel. It feels like a major walk of shame going to your room after your night. You’re embarrassed at how much seeing Seonghwa with another girl impacted you. He’s single, he’s allowed to be with whoever he wants. So why are you unable to stop the tears from falling? Maybe, somewhere in your subconscious, you were hoping that Seonghwa felt the same as you. 

The shower is boiling hot, but it feels so good. At this point, you’re not as sad but angry. Why was Seonghwa being so lovey with you, and leading you on. He said all the right things, just to go and flirt with another girl. Well whatever. Fuck him. You’re in your comfy pajamas, and crawl into bed. You can’t believe everything that has happened, and it’s only your first night of your vacation. Well one thing’s for sure, you learned your lesson from Seonghwa. You text Emma that you made it, and are going to bed.

She responds almost immediately, “I’m going to kill him.”

You shake your head at your sister’s temper, “Please don’t. It’s really okay. We are both single, he can do whatever he wants. I guess I just misinterpreted.”

The tv is on, and you’re attempting to fall asleep. Your body is absolutely exhausted, but your mind is racing. You feel like an idiot. Why did Seonghwa tell you he was interested in you, if he was just going to immediately get with another girl. Maybe he just said those things to get you to kiss him. That thought was even more upsetting, you didn’t think he was like that.

You hear the door unlocking, and brace yourself for a lecture from your sister.

“Before you start asking me a million questions, can you at least bring me water from the fridge?” You ask your sister. 

Emma doesn’t respond, but you hear the fridge open. 

You turn and sit up, “I’m really sorry I left you. I just needed to get out of there-”

You stop talking at the sight of Seonghwa standing in your room, holding a water bottle for you. 

He sounds out of breath, “You didn’t misunderstand.”

You’re shocked that he’s actually in your room right now all you can manage to say is, “Seonghwa.” 

He starts towards you but stops himself, “Do you mind if I sit on your bed?”

You sit up and motion for him to come over. He sits right next to you, his feet still on the ground. You’re surprised by how frantic he looks. 

“I’m so sorry about earlier. I was jealous that you were dancing with other guys, so I was acting like an idiot. I’m sorry that hurt you, after everything you told me about your ex-” He can’t even finish the sentence, he just puts his head in his head. 

You touch his arm, “Hey it’s okay. I overreacted. We are both single, you’re allowed to do whatever you want.”

Seonghwa looks at you with wide eyes, “Don’t say that. I know you feel the same. When we kissed- I’ve never felt like that before.”

“S-stop. Please. I can’t do this.” You say with a lump in your throat.

Seonghwa looks like he’s trying not to cry, “What do you mean?”

You take a shaky breath, “I think the way I acted tonight is proof enough that I’m not ready for a relationship. The instant connection I feel with you is scary. When I saw you with that other girl…I didn’t respond how I should have.” You look in his eyes, “I’m so sorry, I just don’t think I’m ready yet.”

A tear falls from Seonghwa’s eyes, “I fucked up, I lost your trust. Please can I have a chance to rebuild your trust in me? I’ve never felt this way about someone, y/n.”

You think for a minute, and almost give in. Almost.

“You have nothing to apologize for. We just met. Besides, I live in America and you’re all the way over here. I don’t speak Korean, and you’re a celebrity.” You collect your thoughts for a moment and meet his watery eyes, “I just think there are a lot of things working against us. I’d rather things just end things now, if I feel this way after just one kiss…I can’t start something like that. I’m so sorry Seonghwa. I just think I’ll be the one getting my heart broken at the end of it.”

Seonghwa feels speechless, his vision is blurry from the tears falling from his face. He stands quickly, surprising you. He walks to the edge of the room. 

“Well I disagree, but I respect that you need more time.” He meets your eyes, “Just so you know, the things you brought up, none of them are deal breakers for me. I already speak English, and I would make regular visits with you mandatory for my contract. Just think about it, okay?”

You respond quietly, “Okay.”

Seonghwa immediately turns and walks out of your hotel room. You fall onto your bed, and the tears immediately stream down your face. 

Five minutes later, Emma enters your room. She walks to your bed, and sees you all curled up eyes red from crying. 

She sits with you, “What happened? I gave Seonghwa twenty minutes, but he only used ten. Then when he came down, it was obvious he had been crying. Now I find you crying. What’s going on, y/n? I thought the two of you would’ve made up.”

You shake your head, “I’m just not ready to put myself out there again. Things with Seonghwa…the way I feel about him, I just need more time. Can we talk more in the morning? I’m exhausted.”

Thankfully Emma doesn’t argue, and goes to shower before bed. You turn off your lamp, and promptly cry yourself to sleep. 

You wake up to the smell of food. You roll over and see Emma standing awkwardly as the hotel worker brings in your tray of food. They speak for a moment, and then the employee leaves. 

“What time is it?” You ask. Your voice raspy from the light before. The memories quickly come flooding back, and your head starts throbbing.

Emma laughs at your disheveled state, “It’s 6pm, we slept all day.”

You groan, “Oh my god my head is pounding.”

Emma brings you over an assortment of food, as well as medicine for your headache. 

You smile, “Wow thank you. You were so prepared!”

Emma shrugged, “It wasn’t me. Seonghwa had all of this sent over. He asked me to text him when we woke up, he knew you were going to be in bad shape.” 

You are pretty shocked to hear that after last night's fiasco, but are also grateful. You begin digging into your food, and chugging water.

“So I was thinking”, Emma starts, “What if you spent the next few days in Jinju? Nari told me that the people at the orphanage are already asking when you’re coming. It seems that they are eager to show you their hospitality since you gave such a large donation. You could spend a few days away from Seoul, clear your head, and then we could meet in Namhae since it’s not far from there.”

Y/n is surprised by Emma, “You aren’t coming with me?”

Emma responds, “Only if you feel comfortable taking the train there alone. A local guide will be picking you up from the station. I was planning to spend a few more days here with Nari. We could meet up in Namhae, and then continue our trip from there?”

Well you definitely don’t want to hold your sister back, but this is rather surprising. But maybe Emma is right, it would be nice to get away from the city for a few days. Even though you literally just got here. Park Seonghwa really did a number on you. 

You ask, “You said someone will be picking me up from the train station?”

Emma smiles, “They were so insistent and excited to have you, I couldn’t say no. But yes, a local guide will be picking you up so you don’t have to do any navigation. Your train leaves tomorrow Monday morning at 8, and then I’ll meet you in Jinju on Wednesday and we can travel to Namhae together. Does that sound okay?”

Honestly, you were a little confused as to why it felt like your sister was trying to get rid of you. But you were also too exhausted to question further. You can’t deny it though, you are pumped at the idea of exploring Jinu for the next few days. The people who work for the orphanage you donated to are extremely kind as well. 

You shrug, “Sure. You are acting suspicious by the way, but I’ll go along with it.”

Your sister giggles, “Nothing gets passed you does it? This will all make sense soon enough.”

Y/n ignores her sister’s very suspicious comment, honestly you’re too jetlagged to care. You scarf down your food, and go to the bathroom to take a quick shower. 

After your shower, you and Emma make a quick stop to the 7-eleven across the street from the hotel. The two of you spend a good thirty minutes just being excited, and looking at all the different food and beverage options. You both decide to sit inside and snack on some cup noodles. 

“So how’s your head?” Emma asks.

You respond, “After the food, medicine, and shower I’m doing much better. What about you?”

Emma gives a thumbs up, “I’m great! You forget, I’m much younger so I bounce back fast.”

You scoff, “I suppose that’s true.”

There’s an uncomfortable pause followed by silence as the sisters finish up their snacks. Emma wants to ask about Seonghwa, but she can feel that y/n isn’t wanting to talk about it. This whole situation has really shocked Emma. She wasn’t expecting you to be so into him. You’re normally pretty reserved, so when Wooyoung came in yelling that you and Seonghwa were making out in the car she didn’t believe it at first. But then she saw the two of you walk in together, and she instantly realized that Wooyoung wasn’t lying. The way you look at Seonghwa, she’s never seen you look at someone like that before. Based on what Nari was telling her, this also isn’t normal for Seonghwa. He was more into flings, and relationships that weren’t going anywhere. 

Emma also will never forget the look on Seonghwa’s face when she was screaming at him. He looked absolutely panicked when he realized you had left, and that his behavior was why. Emma was ready to grill him, but his response surprised her. Seonghwa was nearly in tears when he was begging Emma to let him apologize to you. The whole ride to the hotel, he was so upset with himself. The original plan that Emma and Nari had come up with, was just for the two of you to hook up with no strings attached. Emma knew you were in desperate need of a good fuck, and Nari said that Seonghwa would be the perfect match since he’s not really into relationships. Or so they thought. 

The rest of the night consisted of you packing up the few things you took out from your suitcase, and scrolling through your phone in bed. You fell asleep around 8:30pm (thank you, jetlag). You wore something cute but comfortable to the train station. Emma was nice enough to come with you, so at least you didn’t have to navigate yourself to the station. 

“Alright I think you’re all set! The train leaves in 15 minutes, so that’ll give you enough time to get situated,” Emma says.

You smile, “I’ll see you on Wednesday, and no more surprises after this okay? I think I’ve had enough for a lifetime since getting to Korea.”

Emma laughs, “Of course. Just remember, keep an open mind. I know how stubborn you are, but maybe just this once see where it goes before shutting it down completely.”

You look at your sister confused, “Okay now I’m even more suspicious. What the hell are you planning, Emma?”

Emma smiles and nods to the train, “You better go, I don’t want you to be late because you missed your train. I love you, and just try to relax and have fun! You deserve to be happy.”

She gives you a hug and gently nudges you to the train. You get on the train and find your seat. You get situated in your seat, and now your mind is racing. What could Emma have possibly planned for you?! 

The ride to Jinju was actually delightful. You loved being able to look outside the window, and see so many different parts of Korea. Your playlist and convenience store snacks also make the trip very enjoyable. You’re only a few minutes away from Jinju when you realize you didn’t ask where to meet your guide. 

The train has finally arrived in Jinju. You pack up your things, and go to grab your suitcase. It takes a few minutes, but you have made it off the train. The station is pretty packed, so you begin looking around and walking towards the exit.

“Y/n!”

Your head turns and your eyes widen, “Seonghwa?”

[ao3feed-ateez]

Star Bound

read it on AO3 at https://ift.tt/csuSUkh by rollingthunders Living on The Halazia with the infamous Captain Hongjoong and his space pirate crew has quite a few... perks. OT8 X F!Reader [1st POV] Words: 8139, Chapters: 1/?, Language: English Fandoms: ATEEZ (Band) Rating: Explicit Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence Categories: M/M, Multi, F/M Characters: Kim Hongjoong, Park Seonghwa, Choi San (ATEEZ), Choi Jongho (ATEEZ), Kang Yeosang, Jung Wooyoung (ATEEZ), Jeong Yunho (ATEEZ), Song Mingi (ATEEZ), Reader, 1st POV Reader Relationships: ATEEZ Ensemble/Reader, Park Seonghwa/Reader, Kim Hongjoong/Reader, Kang Yeosang/Reader, Choi San (ATEEZ)/Reader, Jeong Yunho (ATEEZ)/Reader, Jung Wooyoung (ATEEZ)/Reader, Song Mingi (ATEEZ)/Reader, Choi Jongho (ATEEZ)/Reader, Choi San/Jung Wooyoung (ATEEZ), multiple other pairings Additional Tags: Smut, Romance, Threesome, Threesome - F/M/M, Sex Toys, Alternate Universe, Alternate Universe - Space, Porn With Plot, Rough Sex, Double Penetration, There will be more tags in each chapter, Series of Oneshots, everyone is bi, just unhinged mfs in space read it on AO3 at https://ift.tt/csuSUkh

[all-about-kyu]

Hi! For the WIP game, may I request Ateez and number 3? Thank you 💕

ohhhhh boyyyy this one was going to destroy people 🫠

Summary: You’ve always ridden your motorcycle with your brother and his best friend since the moment you had your license. When your brother isn’t around, though, maybe you’ll ride something else. Pairing: Jongho x fem!reader Tropes: brother’s best friend au Genre: smut Rating: R 18+ Active Warnings: language Prospective Warnings: unprotected sex, dirty talk, possessive pet names (mine, my) Word Count (at abandonment): 516

Other Attic Items

Going for rides has always been the way you and your brother have bonded. Since the moment he got his license and trusted himself to let you ride with him, Yeosang has brought you along with him. Jongho would almost always be there too. He and Yeosang are two peas in a pod. Nothing could ever be bad enough to stop them from being friends. You were never really close with Jongho. Not until you also got your motorcycling license and started riding your own instead of being Yeosang’s passenger. Even now, though, Jongho doesn’t say much to you. He’s far more interested in chatting with your brother. It makes sense with him being Yeosang’s best friend.

You’re on your way to the place the three of you always meet up before going out for a ride. It’s gorgeous out, so you opt to wear something a bit more form-fitting rather than a thick jacket like you’ve had to for the past few months. Normally, you meet up with Yeosang before heading to where Jongho is likely already waiting for you. Your brother had told you to go ahead, though, since he had to wrap up a last-minute project his boss asked him to do. 

As you approach the small park, you see Jongho, but your brother is nowhere to be seen. A small noise of confusion escapes your lips before waving to the car beside you, asking if you can merge in front of them to turn into the parking lot. They let you pass, and you see Jongho wave lazily to you as you approach. He’s leaning against the worn wooden fence in front of his bike, scrolling through his phone. Despite the warm weather, he’s still wearing his black leather jacket and a pair of black jeans. He’ll always say he’s not too hot in that ensemble, but you know he must be dying slightly due to the sun beating down on him. Your bike rumbles smoothly as you park it beside Jongho’s. 

“Where’s Yeosang?” you question as you place your helmet on one of the handles.

“Damn, am I not exciting enough for you?” Jongho teases, not looking up from his phone.

“No, no, it’s not that.” you explain, “I just expected him to already be here too.”

Jongho finally looks at you. His eyes scan your body for a second before refocusing on your face.

“He told me he couldn’t make it. The project his lazy boss gave him is probably going to take him all day. Do you still wanna ride?”

“Y- yeah, do you have a specific place in mind?”

“Not really, let’s just see where we end up wandering off to.” he smiles lightly.

You always talk to people on your rides. Strangers next to you more often than not. You know, people tend to be more careful driving around you due to how exposed your vehicle is. That just gives you more opportunity to have a friendly chat, though. Jongho is currently ahead of you and a lane over. You’re simply following his lead through this ride.

[missgraylock]

North and South: Beginnings - Chapter 4: Thievery and Reconcilement

Summary: A fragile peace has settled between North and South of the border. You and your cousin live a quiet life on a secluded farm, attempting to hide both your omega status and your origins.

After a faithful meeting everything is about to change, and your past hunts you down. But in your time of need, someone aids you from the shadows.

"North and South: Beginnings" is an omegaverse tale in a medieval setting, where our ensemble will experience plenty of fluff, angst and very steamy moments. Ateez is the main focus here, with Seventeen as their allies. Stray Kids is the enemy, but this is a fictional work that doesn't reflect the real life persons in any way (love you SKZ).

This is my first long fic and English isn't my first language, so bear with me. This work is not proof read. I have a goal to post at least one chapter a week, and it's going to be a long story. Buckle in!

pairing: reader x non-idol! San, reader x most of Ateez for the smut tbh

genre: romance, smut, angst, A/B/O, omegaverse, AU

chapter: 4 of many, word count is 6,4k for this chapter

rating: 18+ minors dni

warnings for this series: dom! san, unprotected sex (don't do this), oral sex (both receiving) fingering, group sex, breeding kink, pet names (good girl, pretty, etc.), lots of gratuitous smut, violence and blood.

for this chapter: descriptions of domestic violence, smut!

divider by: @cafekitsune

Masterlist / << Previous / Next >>

Do you prefer to read on AO3? 📖

This is a long chapter, but trust me—it pays off if you stick with it to the end *cough cough*

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Chapter 4

Thievery and Reconcilement

A disaster happens, and a chance to reconcile with San arises You’ve just put the roast on the dining table when your uncle enters the front door, his face grimacing in pain. Your aunt catches it as well.

“Has something happened?” she starts to get up from her chair.

“I just rolled my ankle and it’s swollen, but it’s not a big deal, please sit down dear” he tries to keep his voice as neutral as possible, but you can hear the strain. 

As you take a breath through your nose, there’s a hint of something familiar in the air, but it’s not something from your own household. It lingers in your mind. 

Your aunt huffs and walks over to him, helping him down in a chair next to the table. He collapses down, resting his foot on a low stool.

“A young man actually helped me,” You’d been a bit occupied with setting the table, but now your ears perked up. “very strong lad, from one of the northern clans.”

Leliana’s eyes meet yours, as she dons a cheeky smile. 

“Really! Tell us more about this mystery man uncle.” you narrow your eyes at her sudden giddiness. 

Your aunt chimes in, “one of the patrols perhaps?”

“Yes yes, so dutiful that he wouldn’t even come in for supper as thanks.”

Your eyes widen, and you feel a sinking feeling in your chest. Part guilt, part longing. 

Leliana senses your stress, but she’s still got a mischievous look on her face.

“What does he look like then?”, her question earns an amused chuckle from your aunt.  

“Well, somewhat tall, dark hair — like many young men around here I guess.” Your uncle shrugs, and Leliana groans at the lackluster description. 

“What? You know I’m not the best at these kinds of details,” you stop and study your uncle, wondering if the mystery man could be someone other than San — maybe some of his pack mates. You pick up on the unique scent again. It has a hint of that distinct pine tree freshness. 

“Wait, he did have quite deep dimples when he smiled — happy now?” Leliana turns her head to look at you, and she can’t help but notice how you struggle to keep your composure. Your uncle looks at you now as well — his eyes narrowing. 

“Wait, is something going on? Do you girls know him by any chance?” Leliana stays quiet, and leaves it up to you to answer. 

It has to be San. His scent is still in your uncle’s clothing, seeping faintly into the room. 

Your aunt looks at you expectantly now as well, but you hesitate as you quickly go through different scenarios in your mind. They might be angry or disappointed that you’ve interacted with a stranger, especially an alpha. On the other hand, you’ve already rejected him and you don’t like to lie. 

You decide to tell them about your two meetings, and how it culminated with you sending him off with his tail figuratively between his legs. You’ve explained how he gave you a gift, always kept his distance but also his quick advances and bold words, attempting to convince you to join him. They sit in silence, pondering. 

You had honestly expected them to scold you for even entertaining San. 

“Well, what he did for your uncle was very selfless, I must say.” Your aunt says matter of factly, as she looks at your uncle. “He seemed like a very decent lad indeed.” Leliana seemed to share your surprise at their measured reactions, her eyebrows now almost at her hairline. 

Your uncle clears his throat, as the mood in the room shifts from upbeat to something more melancholic.  

“To be honest girls, we always knew there would come a day when the outside world would catch up to you. We won’t keep you as caged birds.” 

Your aunt nods along solemnly.

“I just hope we’ve managed to make you good judges of character — there’s a lot of people out there who want to take advantage of you two, but there are good people that will enrich your lives as well.” 

“Maybe we’ve even done too good of a job,” your aunt smirks at you, hinting at your tirade at San’s proposal. Leliana giggles now, and you join in. 

Night falls, and it’s silent in your shared bedroom. Both you and your cousin are deep in thought — your aunt and uncle’s words replaying in your minds. Even though you’ve grown up within rather strict confines that often felt frustrating, they also provided predictability in your daily lives. After tonight’s conversation however, it really feels like your lives have opened up — the future is yours to navigate as you wish. 

As you close your eyes, you envision San’s face. It’s clearer than it’s been, possibly influenced by his scent lingering on your uncle’s coat downstairs. He gently waves to you from afar. 

You wake up to the sun filtering between the curtains, squinting from the bright light in the room. You peek over the window sill, a blue sky appears above and you can hear the loud buzzing of bees in the flower beds below. It was another beautiful summer day. 

You shook your cousin awake, and you dressed yourself in your lightest linen dresses. The day was made to be spent outdoors — more specifically in a cool river pool. 

After a quick breakfast, you grabbed a satchel and filled it with some leftover bread, a couple of apples and a hard cheese. 

You were about to head out the door when your uncle whistled sharply. 

“Bring the bow please, I’ve seen a mountain lion stalking not too far from here, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.”

Archery was your choice of weapon, so you fetched the bow and quiver, swinging it around your shoulder, tightening it against your back. 

“Done, see you later!” the two of you waved at your uncle, barreling out the doorway.

---------

You skipped down the path in the nearby woods, your fingers interlaced in your cousin’s. The thought of immersing your overheating skin in the cool water made you giddy, free from any chores or other concerns for a while. 

As you arrived at the river pool deep in the woods, you stripped yourself of all your clothes and waded into the water. It was undoubtedly made up from the icy water of a rapidly melting glacier further up the mountains. As you swam around in peace, you had half expected Leliana to start asking about San again, but it seemed like she was uncharacteristically occupied in her own mind today.

You were both just enjoying the carelessness of having almost a whole day to do whatever you wanted, postponing the big and potentially consequential conversations for a little longer. 

You suddenly felt a shiver in your skin from the coolness, and decided it was time to reheat in the sun again. You pulled your dress over your head, wringing the excess water from your hair as you pinned it back up in a bun.  

“Well hello again pretty omega, remember me?” Your eyes shoot up at the sound of a man’s voice, as Hyunjin steps out from behind a tree. Another pair emerges from the other side, isolating you and your cousin from the path. Leliana is only a couple of meters away, but you stand frozen as your heart starts pounding in your chest. You feel vulnerable in your little dress and your bow out of reach.  

“Oh, you were right hyung — they truly are quite pretty”, one of the other men chimed in, crossing his bulging arms across his chest. It revealed a dagger on his hip, the hilt shaped after a crescent moon. They were undoubtedly from a southern clan.

“Delicious even” the third man states, slimmer than the one next to him — with darker eyes and an intense stare. 

You eye your bow and quiver on the ground.

“Don’t even try pretty, you better leave that where it is.” Hyunjin’s snake-like eyes are fixed on you, like he’s about to pounce if you make any sudden movements. 

“Oh, you’re the creep from the tailor?” Leliana challenges him, and his mouth snarls slightly. You can tell that she’s trying to buy you time to figure out an escape route, but your mind is too overwhelmed, drowning in adrenaline.

“Minho. Jeongin . Grab the bitch. I’ve got this one.” 

Leliana didn’t stand a chance, as the two men had already flanked her, grabbing her arms and wrestling them behind her back. 

Hyunjin was already charging you, and you could only back up — paralyzed by fear. As he was about to grab your arms, your fingers darted into your tousled bun. The next thing you knew, you jabbed at his eye with it, and he yelped in pain. 

“Fucking bitch! What did you do!” His hand was pressed instinctively against his hurt eye, as he was stumbling backwards, trying to find his footing. 

“Run [Y/n],” Leliana was screaming at you “you need to find help, please run!” 

You only had seconds to dwell on your conflicting feelings, but you knew she was right. You stood no chance against three men set on capturing you both. 

Minho and Jeongin were still confused by the spectacle in front of them, but Hyunjin had started to recover. In a split second you managed to grab your bow, swinging the quiver over your shoulder and started running. 

You felt tears well as you had to turn your back to your cousin, but you were prey now, and you had to run for your life. 

As your heart and mind raced, you took a quick glance behind you. Hyunjin started to chase you down now — your head start shrinking by the second. You were still a ways off the homestead.

“This is what you’ve practiced for” you tried to reassure yourself, pulling an arrow from the quiver on your back.

In an elegant turn, you were kneeling on one knee in the grass, angled towards Hyunjin. Your hands were trembling but you managed to release an arrow towards him. 

Hyunjin ducked, barely dodging your arrow.

He quickly looked back up. “Really you little bitch? You can’t even hit me!”

He started running again, only a few meters away now. 

It was your last chance. You pulled the bowstring in a lightning fast move.

Your shakiness made the arrow waver on its path, but it hit him on his lower thigh.

Hyunjin screamed as he fell to the ground. 

He was incapacitated, but you didn’t trust it to last very long. You saw him clutch the arrow, trying to yank it out of his now weeping flesh, cursing and groaning. 

Snapping out of the intensity of the situation, you got up and started running again. 

“You can run all you want, but we’re coming to get you!” He yelled after you — his voice almost drowned out by the loud and rapid heartbeat in your ears. 

You were almost at the homestead now, and you weren’t being chased anymore. A group of people stood on the porch, one of them catching sight of you. 

“They took her!” You cried at them, recognizing your uncle among some of the neighboring farmers. 

You crashed into him — your hands clutching the front of his shirt.

“Hey, slow down, what happened?” He looked down at you concerned, the other men gathering around you.

“Southerners, they took her. They took Leliana.” Tears ran down your cheeks now, the full impact of what had transpired hitting you like a ton of bricks.

“Where are they?” Your uncle cupped your face now, trying to keep you focused.

“By the river pool,” you pointed towards the woods “one of them was chasing me but I shot him in the leg, I think he’s still back there.” 

Your uncle gave a quick glance to the men around him, nodding. 

“You’re going to stay here now, promise?”

You gasped, shaking your head.

“No! I can help! Please uncle!” You were fully sobbing now.

“No chance. It’s not safe, go inside and lock the door — now!” Your uncle's authority was undeniable, and you hung your head low in resignation.

He was suddenly off, the rest of the men in tow. You stood with your face in your palms, trying to catch your breath in between the sobs. You made your way into the house now, your mind racing about your cousin. Terrible scenarios appeared, but it was out of your control. As soon as you were inside, you made sure to lock both the locks on the outer door. 

Your uncle had gathered the men around the dining table, with his arm around your shoulder. Your eyes were red and puffy now, and a quiet anxiety was pulsing through you. 

Your aunt looked equally concerned, making a ruckus in the kitchen to keep herself occupied. 

“So all we have is a broken arrow and blood on the ground where [Y/n] shot one of them, and the girls’ items left behind.” Your uncle sighed.

You had all hoped to find them, or at least capture one of them. 

“There was quite a lot of blood though, she probably hit an artery.” One of the neighbors chimed in, giving you an acknowledging nod. 

“I think we can rationalise that they’re keeping Leliana alive, but we definitely need help getting her back. They could be part of a large clan and even have allies at the ready.” They all hummed in agreement.

“I’m seeking out the closest northern clan, they’re going to be capable.”

You leaned further into your uncle’s embrace, the knot in your chest loosening slightly at the mention of rallying to get your cousin back. 

“I found this by the way, is it yours?” You perk up, as your uncle presents an item in his palm. San’s hairpin.

You were on horseback now, your arms stretching around your uncle. You were heading for the Ateez patrol outpost, as you got directions from one of the nearby farmers. 

It dawned on you that you’d see San again, and you didn’t know what to expect. Your mind was occupied by Leliana, and you wondered if the clans would get involved in something that could potentially escalate conflicts. The peace had been resting on a knife’s edge for years now, and you had never really experienced turmoil in your adult years. 

As you arrived at the cabin, a tall, slim figure was already heading out the door. 

When he spotted you, he waved inside for the rest of the men to exit. 

“Greetings, you seem to be in a rush?” He enquired, as your horse came to a stall. 

“Yes indeed, my niece has been abducted by a southern clan, identified by a dagger.” 

Three men were gathered outside now, two of them towering above a shorter, yet well built man. You could see the surprise on their faces. This was the first time in years there had been an actual breach in the underlying rules and morals keeping the peace. 

“That is very grave, and it sounds like time is of the essence, like it often is with abductions.”

Your uncle nodded quickly.

“I’m Yunho by the way, from the Ateez clan. This is Mingi and Jongho.” They both lifted their hands in a silent greeting towards the pair of you. 

“I’m Marcus, this is my niece [Y/n], we live at a homestead only a few kilometers away.”

The men cast a knowing glance at each other by the mention of your name. 

You’d been quiet so far, but you couldn’t help yourself. 

“Is-is San around?” You met Yunho’s eyes, and they softened immediately. 

“He went back to our clan home earlier today, but I think it’s best we all go there now. A situation like this needs to be handled rationally, but it’s acute of course.” Yunho said reassuringly. Your uncle agreed. 

Jongho went back into the cabin to pack up their essentials quickly, as Mingi rode down to the homestead informing your aunt of the situation. 

“Let’s get a head start, they’ll catch up to us later,” Yunho swung elegantly over his horse “follow me.”

---------

After what felt like ages later, a massive timber manor manifested itself in an opening deep in the pine wood forest. It had several smaller dwellings surrounding it, a whole acre full of different sorts of vegetables, a field of trees and bushes you reckoned to be an orchard, as well as a sturdy stone fence surrounding the sizable perimeter. 

San’s words were true — this was a clan with their shit together. 

As your horses approached the stone wall gate, its doors opened and a figure appeared. 

“Marcus? What are you doing here?” It was San. 

You peeked from behind your uncle’s back, and your eyes met. San gasped, and it felt like the world stood still. You swore you could hear your heartbeat out loud, as you disappeared completely in his deep brown eyes. 

Younho cleared his throat, breaking the obvious tension between the two of you.

“San, we have an emergency, her cousin has been abducted by a southern clan just a few hours ago, we need to gather everyone.”

San snapped out of the moment with a dazed look on his face.

“Gather everyone — yes, yes of course.” 

Even though the situation was grave, Yunho couldn’t help but suppress an amused smile.

San sprinted up towards the mansion’s entrance, as Yunho led you towards the stables. 

A few moments later you were at the doorstep, two large wooden doors in front of you. They had fine, ornate carvings of flowers and branches. You slid your hand into your dress’ pocket and let your fingertips slide across the hairpin you’d pocketed. 

Yunho opened the doors into a large entranceway, with a wide staircase in the middle.

“They’re probably gathered in the living room, come with me.” He took a turn left, and led the way through a hallway. Its walls were made of timber, decorated by framed paintings and dried flowers. You wondered if the men had made these themselves. You took a deep breath through your nostrils, and the smell was incredible. It was like an explosion of flowers, trees and grass, with accents of herbs and fruits. 

You heard the sound of voices buzzing now, entering a large room that somehow still felt very cozy, featuring a fireplace and several couches and cushions spread across the floor.

You instinctively scanned the room for San’s face in the group of men, and he was already looking at you. 

A shorter man with sharp features turned around — an aura of authority radiating off of him. 

“Marcus and [Y/n] I presume, I’m Hongjoon — captain of the Ateez clan.” He gave you a slight bow, and you both bowed back.

“I hear your niece has been captured by a southern clan? I’ll need all the details.”

Yunho led you and your uncle to sit on the couch, and San sat across from you. His distance seemed intentional. A smaller man with an attentive and friendly face settled next to you. “Hi, I’m Wooyoung, are you ok?” He whispered in your ear, and you instantly felt a genuine warmth from his words.

“I’m ok, I think, I’m just very worried.” Tears started to gather in your eyes again, as Hongjoong conversed with your uncle. 

Wooyoung offered you his open palm, and you decided to lay your hand in his, as he carefully interlaced your fingers.

“You’re an omega right? I’m one as well.” Your eyes widened as you barely had met other omegas before, and it just deepened the bond that was rapidly forming between the two of you. Wooyoung carefully stroked over your thumb with his. 

“Yeosang is also an omega,” nodding towards an angelic being sitting in one of the corner couches, leaning into a man with sharp features just like Hongjoong’s. 

“that’s Seonghwa, Yeo’s mate — he’s an alpha.” You took in Seonghwa’s inherent elegance, as he listened intently to the discussion in the room. 

“You’ve already met Yunho, Mingi, Jongho and San I guess?”

You turned to meet Wooyoung’s eyes at the mention of San’s name. 

He smirked a bit now, as you realised that he had heard about you before. 

You felt San’s eyes on you, but you didn’t have the resolve to look at him right now. The intensity of the day was catching up to you, and you felt completely drained. 

You could hear doors slamming in the distance, and soon enough both Mingi and Jongho entered the room. 

Hongjoong rose to his feet, clearing his throat.

“Alright everyone, here’s the situation we’re in. One of our own has been abducted by a southern clan — a clear breach of the agreements in the peace treaty.” The mood in the room was tense as the captain spoke.

“It’s unacceptable, and we need to do something about this quickly — not only to show that we’re strong, but to save [Y/n]’s cousin here.” His gaze dropped to you, giving you a careful smile. The rest of the men gave you a sympathetic look. 

“It’s important that we don’t escalate this any more than necessary, so I will seek advice from both the Seventeen and Got7 clan. My instinct tells me that it’s worth meeting with the southern clan responsible to try to negotiate first.”

You gnawed on your lip, something in your gut telling you that Hyunjin’s clan wasn’t the negotiating type. 

“Yunho, Jongho, I’m sending you back out to inform the other clans about the situation.” 

They both nodded, already standing up.

“The rest of us here, we need to have a backup plan for the patrols, as well as taking stock of our armor and weapons — they need to be in tip top shape. Just in case.”

The gravity of the situation felt overwhelming, and without really thinking about it, you rested your head on Wooyoung’s shoulder. You could hear a small purr from his chest, as he wrapped an arm around your back.

“Marcus, [Y/n], you’re free to stay here as guests. I understand if you want to go back to your home, but there could still be vital information both about the attackers and Leliana that would be useful to us.”

“Of course, we can stay until tomorrow, but I need to get back to my wife then, I don’t like the thought of her staying by herself at the homestead now.”

Hongjoong nodded. 

“Yeo and Woo, can you show them the guest rooms? I’m sure they’re tired and need to rest up, it’s nightfall already.”

Wooyoung basically bounced off of the couch in excitement, running down the hallway.

Yeosang came up behind you, shaking his head.

“I’m sorry, he can’t contain himself sometimes, we don’t have visitors that often.” You gave him a light giggle, and he smiled sincerely back at you. 

Before you left the room, you turned around to look at San. He looked like he was about to follow you, when Mingi laid a hand on his chest to ask him something. 

His eyes flickered between you and Mingi as you disappeared further down the hall. 

Wooyoung and Yeosang were quick to make up your guest rooms. They were lavish with large windows, and their own bathrooms. 

You couldn’t wait to dive into the huge bed. 

“I left some extra items for you [Y/n], a robe, water bottle, hair and tooth brush, but just come knock on my door if you need anything else please!” Wooyoung suddenly wrapped his arms around you, and you froze for a second. Then you fully accepted his embrace, and took in his calming omega scents — the bond between you felt like something only akin to the one you had with your cousin. 

You hugged your uncle goodnight in the hallway, closed the door and quickly slid under the covers. When the mansion started going quiet, the singing feeling in your chest intensified. It was like a vortex of anxiety, all the painful and dark emotions creeping through your mind and manifesting in your physical form.

Hours passed and sleep eluded you completely. You couldn’t stop seeing her pained face as she yelled at you to run. 

You needed to change strategies if you were going to get any rest tonight. 

You slipped out of bed only wearing a short slip provided by Wooyoung, your bare feet shuffling silently across the cool floors.

You were now in the dimly lit hallway — a row of doors on both sides. Right across from you hung a little plate with a scribbled “W” on it, and you decided to gently open the door.

You spotted Wooyoung's unmistakable little shape under a blanket — his mixture of black and bleached locks poking out on the top.

“Woo?” You whispered.

To your surprise, his eyes peeped up from under the blanket.

“[Y/n], is everything okay?” his voice was hazy.

“Yes, I just… I can't sleep. I feel so bad.”

Wooyoung pulled his covers open, holding them up as he sliding further into the bed.

“Come here. I'll hold you.”

You closed the door behind you, and settled in next to his warm body. It didn't feel awkward at all — it felt familiar and somehow just right.

Wooyoung spooned you, as you finally closed your eyes and drifted off.

---------

You woke slowly to a soft knock on the door. Mingi's face appeared. “Woo?” 

Wooyoung was still asleep, nuzzled in your neck.

Mingi realised that both of you were in the bed, and you could tell that he did a deep intake of air through his nostrils. You swore you heard a low rumble from his chest, as the scent of two warm omegas hit him. Your eyes met, and you could feel the heat from his gaze. He bit his lower lip ever so slightly. 

Wooyoung stirred awake now, his hair going in all directions as he rubbed his eyes. 

“Yes Mingi?”

Mingi snapped out of the trance he was in.

“Breakfast, coffee — it's all waiting for you upstairs.”

Wooyoung stretched his arms, yawning dramatically. 

“We'll be there soon!”.

You’d both slipped into something comfortable, and Wooyoung took great pleasure in brushing through your long hair. 

“So San’s clearly in love with you.” You could see his teasing smirk reflected in the mirror.

“Stop it, don’t you think we have more pressing matters right now?” You huffed, not able to fully hide your amusement.

Wooyoung kept smirking, “what if I told you that he saved my life — well kind of.”

He sounded more serious now.

“Really?” You left it up to Wooyoung to elaborate.

“Yes, my family sold me off to an older alpha who mated me by force — ” You did a sharp intake, “He’s beat me overy anything — if he thought dinner was served too late, if he found strands of my hair on the furniture, I was constantly walking on eggshells.” 

You turned around and looked Wooyoung in the eyes. He didn’t seem affected.

“It’s ok, it’s been years now. Anyway — we had to stay at the inn in town once, and San witnessed him punch me. He actually beat the shit out of him.” He grinned.

“He saw all my bruises and wondered if I had a safe place to stay, and when I said I didn’t-he offered me to stay here for a while. I never left.” 

You wrapped your arms around Wooyoung in a tight embrace. 

“He’s pretty wonderful you know. Just not the most eloquent.” You giggled, and you felt something bubbling in your chest. An excitement to get upstairs and see him. 

Wooyoung patted your head gently, and grabbed your hand — pulling you with him upstairs.

The smell of pancakes and fresh coffee was overwhelming, masking the alpha scents slightly. 

As you entered the kitchen, Mingi, Seonghwa, Yeosang and San were already in deep conversation around the dining table. They all turned around when you appeared.

“Good morning sleepy heads” Seonghwa gave you a warm smile, “[Y/n], your uncle is getting a tour of the grounds from the captain, they’ll probably be back soon.” You nodded gently. The space next to San on the bench was vacant, and you decided to sit down next to him. His face lit up in surprise.

“Hi.” you said softly. A pink flush rose in his cheeks.

“Good morning, did you sleep well?”

“I did, really well actually, despite Woo clinging to me like a bear cub.” You could hear Woo protest as he prepared two cups of coffee at the kitchen counter. 

They all laughed now, and the mood in the room felt comfortable and relaxed. 

San leaned closer to you. “Are you leaving today?” he said in a hushed voice, wanting to keep your conversation between the two of you. You could feel your thighs brushing together, and the energy between you two was charged and almost crackling.

“I was thinking I might stay, if my uncle and Hongjoong agrees — I want to be a part of this, getting her back.” 

San nodded. “I hope you’ll stay.” His whispering voice was laced with sincerity and longing, and you could tell he was holding himself back from touching you. Wrapping an arm around you. Reaching for your hand. Anything.

Wooyoung placed a coffee in front of you, and a plate with banana pancakes, berries and cream. You squealed in delight, and San grinned next to you. 

Hongjoong and your uncle entered the room now, and you took the opportunity to explain why you wanted to stay longer. They didn’t see any issues with it, and you could positively feel San’s excitement radiate off of him when he realised you’d stay. 

---------

You hugged your uncle goodbye in the entrance hall, promising to send him a pigeon if there were any new developments. San stood behind you, his protective alpha energy out in full force now that you had reconciled. 

“[Y/n], can we talk in private?” You nodded, and he reached for your hand.

You took it, and he led you to the empty living room. He closed the door behind you, pulling you down to the sea of pillows on the floor. 

He opened his other palm. An invitation for you to lay your hands in his. You did, and the magnetic draw between you was palpable. 

“I’ve been a pompous idiot. I’m so sorry for what I said to you. I was in the wrong and I also rushed you when we barely knew each other. I just couldn’t help but feel like you were already mine.” 

The honesty in his words sent a deep pang right into your chest. You let go of your grudges that were already just hanging on by a thread.

“I forgive you, whatever is between you and me is confusing and intense. It can probably cloud our judgment as well. Your alpha just got really eager and I felt like I had to protect myself.” You could see the relief soften his nervous face.

“Can we start over?” His thumbs gently stroked your fingers now.

“Good idea.” You smiled at each other. 

Before he could say anything else, you leaned forward and gave him a gentle kiss on the lips. He winced slightly at first, but recovered quickly, leaning back into your kiss. Weeks and weeks of yearning culminated in this moment between you. 

You wrapped your arms around his neck as you kiss deepend, and the world completely disappeared around you. 

San’s hands were on your hips now, lifting you into his lap. 

He pulled away from your lips for a second, your noses brushing against each other.

“Do you know that you smell like roses, the pink ones that bloom early in the summer,” You giggled at his sincerity, tucking back the hair that had fallen into his eyes gently. 

“Having my rose petal in my arms like this — it feels so right. Like it’s meant to be”. 

You preened at the nickname.

“San.” You whimpered, leaning even closer into his embrace.

“I love it when you say my name like that. The little sounds you’re making, I don’t know if I can hold myself back anymore.” 

He crashed his lips into yours again, as the intensity of your kiss was escalating. You cupped his face as his fingers slid up underneath your camisole. His fingertips were ghosting up your sides now, stopping at the lower outline of your breasts. 

“Can I touch you more, my petal?” he whispered.

“Yes San, please, I need more.” A rumbling sound originated from deep in his chest, a golden hue flickering in his eyes. 

He let his thumbs swipe over your stiffening nipples, and a shiver of pleasure ran down your spine. He lifted the camisole over your head, discarding it among the pillows. His swollen lips detaching from your kiss, moving down to your breast instead. You could feel the flicker of his tongue against your nipple — his hand was on the other, pinching you slightly as you moaned softly down towards him. 

He leaned you backwards now, until your back was laid against the soft pillows. Your hands were under the hem of his shirt, pulling at it. He grinned at your eagerness, pulling his shirt off. He cupped your face in his hands now, as you felt the weight of his heavy body on yours — his broad chest flush to your bare breasts. 

You spread your legs slightly, letting him settle in between your thighs. You could feel his hardness pressing against your core, as he nudged it slightly against you, making you whine and wriggle under him. He leaned back to a kneeling position, his fingers at the hem of your shorts. He looked at you asking, and you gave him a nod, biting your lip. 

He pulled them completely off of you, letting his hands slide back down your thighs. Your breath was heavy, and the air in the room was filled with your scents and anticipation. 

“Just relax, I’ll take care of you.” Before you could respond, his lips was on your inner thigh, leaving a trail of small love bites and kitten licks along it, getting dangerously close to your core. 

The next thing you knew, you could feel the flat of his tongue against you, as he dragged it slowly and teasingly upwards. You moaned loudly, feeling yourself getting wetter at his attention. He licked at you slowly, only lingering at the top as he sucked on your bud lightly, making you intertwine your fingers in his hair. The pleasure was so overwhelmingly intense that you pressed him slightly towards you, making him groan into your core. He was fully eating you out now — like he had been starving for weeks. 

You suddenly felt a fingertip teasing your entrance, swiping the wetness around it. He pushed his finger slowly into you, and you clenched down. He found the grooved spot, and slipped another finger in, rubbing it slowly. 

“San — don’t stop.” you whined, making him even more eager to please you. 

His movements were faster now, his fingers pumping rhythmically in and out of you, while his lips surrounded your bud — sucking and swiping at it. 

You felt your orgasm approaching quickly, and pressed his head against you as your hips buckled and your back arched. San kept at it, prolonging the ripples of pleasure that waved through your body.

“I love seeing you like this, all fucked out by my hands,” he looked up at you, his hair damp and lips all swollen and red now. 

“That was — it was incredible San,” You tried to catch your breath again as you slowly came down from your high. 

“It’s my turn now”

San had laid down on his back next to you, and you quickly straddled him. 

“You don’t have to do anything petal, we have all the time in the world.” he said earnestly.

“I know, but I want to” you cocked your head at him, pleading. He laughed slightly, his hands resting on your thighs, rubbing small circles. 

You started to slide down until you knelt between his legs. He was rock hard and leaking, his heavy cock resting against his trail of dark hair. The sight of it made you salivate. 

One of your hands was resting on his hip, as the other gripped the base of him. You gathered some spit in your mouth, letting it drip out from your lips, spreading over his tip. San was already groaning from the sinful display in front of him. His bare naked omega taking care of him so well. 

You wrapped your lips around him, sliding him in against the back of your tongue. San’s hands were in your hair now, gathering it at the back of your head to keep it from being in the way. 

“That feels incredible, just like that.” 

You looked up at him with his cock hitting the back of your throat, meeting his already fucked out eyes. Seeing him this pliant under you just spurred you on, as you started taking him in your mouth in a steady rhythm. As you kept a firm grip on his base with one hand, you snaked the other underneath it, cupping his balls gently. His hips bucked at your touch, and you let your thumb swipe against the delicate skin while you kept your movement going. 

“You’re going to make me cum, please — ”

“Cum in my mouth San, I want to swallow all of it.” Your dirty words were extremely effective, and you could feel his cock starting to pulse.

He pumped ropes of warm cum at the back of your throat now, shaking under you.

You swallowed it diligently, and pumped him gently to avoid overstimulating him. When he was empty, you sat back looking at him, reaching your tongue out to show your empty mouth.

“Holy shit, that’s the hottest thing I’ve ever experienced. My girl is incredible.” he panted.

You giggled, getting a bit shy now from the filthiness of it all, sliding down besides him. He reached his arm around your shoulder, pulling you in so your head rested on his chest, intertwining your legs. 

“We’re so screwed, how are we going to keep our hands off of each other now.” 

You both started laughing at his statement, as your bodies relaxed from the pleasures of your orgasms.

“Who says we have to?” You replied, as San pulled you closer, reaching for a blanket nearby to pull across your naked bodies.

You suddenly heard a knock on the door. You looked towards it, seeing Wooyoung’s face appear in the doorway.

“Oh there you are — wait, what the hell, what have you two been up to?” He basically yelled out.

“Woo, please lower your voice” San tried.

“It smells like sex in here! You two sure made up fast, haha!”. 

San chucked a pillow in Woo’s direction, keeping you close in his other arm. 

“Anyway, you’re both needed upstairs. Cheol and Jaebeom have arrived.”

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