#gray high gloss drawers

[junsnow]

Kitchen - Enclosed

[modularkitchen34]

Modern & Stylish Modular Kitchen Design Plans

Originally posted on :  https://modularkitchendesign.co.in/blog/modern-stylish-modular-kitchen-design-plans

The way we think about and use kitchen spaces has completely changed as a result of the beautiful and stylish modular kitchen design plans. These designs offer solutions that are customized for individual demands by combining smart function with stylish looks. Modular cooking spaces are the ultimate example of modern living, converting the kitchen into a practical, effective, and beautiful center of the house with connected appliances, clever storage, environmentally friendly supplies, and advanced technology.

The Modern Kitchen's Fundamentals

Prefabricated modules or components serve as modern kitchens; these may be joined in different ways to suit the unique design of a room. These modules, which each have a specific purpose, include cabinets, drawers, shelves, and counters. Modern homes are usually selected for modular kitchen design because of its flexibility and simplicity of installation.

Key Features of Modern Modular Kitchen design

Beautiful and Simple Style

Smooth surfaces, clean lines, and a simple look are features that define modern modular kitchen design spaces. With built-in appliances and hidden storage options that offer a free of mess atmosphere, the focus is on usefulness and simplicity. Improving the modern look are high-gloss finishes, matte surfaces, and the frequent usage of basic color palettes like black, gray, and white.

High-Quality Materials and Finishes

Modern kitchen modules materials are chosen for their strength, low maintenance requirements, and attractiveness. Stainless steel, glass, wood veneers, and engineered stone are typical options. High-quality hardware and soft-close cabinetry contribute to the luxurious atmosphere, while countertops made from quartz or granite offer an attractive and fashionable work surface.

Smart Storage Solutions

The clever storage solutions that kitchens with modular design apply to maximize available space are one of its most notable characteristics. To optimize storage space while allowing organization and accessibility of necessary kitchen items, pull-out drawers, corner units, and tall units are available. No room is wasted thanks to creative ideas like pull-out pantries and corner cabinet carousel units.

Popular Layouts for Modular Kitchen Design

A kitchen's functioning is greatly impacted by its layout. different layouts can be created for kitchens that are modular to suit varied areas and tastes.

L-Shaped Kitchen

The L-shaped design offers a functional work triangle and lots of counter space, making it perfect for both big and compact kitchens. Because it has two parallel walls, it's a popular and flexible option for modern kitchen styles.

U-Shaped Kitchen

A U-shaped design increases counter and storage space with three walls of appliances and cabinets. Larger kitchens and cooking lovers will enjoy this arrangement since it allows an extremely effective workflow.

Island Kitchen

A kitchen plan which includes an island adds more counter and storage space. It also offers a place for chatting while cooking or a comfortable eating space. Islands are a flexible element to any modular kitchen design since they may be fitted with sinks, stovetops, or extra preparation space.

Parallel or Galley Kitchen

The galley or parallel kitchen arrangement involves a corridor between two parallel walls. With lots of counters and storage space, this design is effective in tiny settings. When room is limited, it is often used in flats and smaller houses.

Customization and Personalization

The flexibility to change and personalize the design to fit your unique needs and tastes is one of the many great benefits of modular kitchens. To fit their style, homeowners have access to a wide selection of colors, finishes, and materials. The kitchen can change with changing demands because of its modular design, which also makes upgrades and adjustments simple.

The Role of Technology

Modern kitchen layouts greatly benefit from technology, which increases productivity and comfort. Smart appliances are getting more and more popular. Examples include refrigerators with touchscreens and ovens that can be operated through smartphone apps. A high-tech kitchen with automatic lighting, smart ventilation systems, and induction cooktops makes cooking and cleaning easier.

Conclusion Modular kitchen design concepts that are fashionable and modern combine usefulness, style, and customization. These kitchens satisfy modern living demands with their beautiful designs, premium materials, and clever storage options. Modern kitchens offer a flexible and fashionable solution that can be customized to meet any area and taste, whether it's a large cooking paradise or a little apartment kitchen. The modular concept is still at the forefront of kitchen design, providing creative and practical solutions for the center of the house, even as technology and the environment continue influencing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What role does technology play in modern kitchens?

Modern customized kitchens are more effective as well as practical thanks to technology. Smart appliances (such as touch screen refrigerators and ovens that can be operated with smartphone applications), automated lighting, and advanced technology ventilation systems are just some of the features.

Q2.Why is combined appliance design important when designing the modern kitchen?

Because kitchen appliances fit into the cabinets, the design stays clear and simple. Along with the saving room, its design supports the look of simplicity in general.

Q3. What are the advantages of smart storage solutions in modular kitchen design?

By making the most of the available space, clever storage solutions provide organization as well as simple access to kitchen needs. Pull-out pantries, corner units, and drawers are examples of features that maximize advantages of smart storage solutions in modular kitchen design.

[dealify]

BEST OFF ROAD CARAVANS AUSTRALIA – 2023

We all know that travelling in your caravan, on your time and your terms, is a wonderful way to explore Australia. The freedom of a good ol’ road trip!

However, if you’re a true Aussie adventurer, searching for the hidden gems and majestic, postcard-worthy views that others can’t find… then it is time to push out from the beaten track and go off-road.

Tackling Australia’s toughest terrain is not for amateurs, and not for the un-prepared. That’s why we’ve prepared (haha) our list of the Best Off-road Caravans for 2023! Let’s get you moving wherever your heart desires via the bitumen, dirt, gravel, mud, or anything else.

These ruggedly versatile, off-road caravans are designed to go where no tiny toyota corolla will go, thanks to additional ground clearance, upgraded suspension systems, heavy duty chassis, all-terrain tires, complete off-the-grid amenities and resilient exterior finishes. Throw in some top-notch safety features and customizable interior layouts, and you’re set up to travel here, there, and everywhere.

Here’s our pick of the Best Off-Road Caravans of 2023 so you can pack up your things, clear your calendar, and head toward the horizon while singing along to “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” at max volume.

SENATOR PROVINCIAL CARAVAN The Senator is completely off-grid ready with complete facilities which are customizable according to your needs and preferences. From a fully-furnished kitchen, to spacious living area with a lounge converting into an extra bed space. The master bedroom houses a queen bed to stretch out and relax at the end of the day. The Senator has a central ensuite. two 95L water tanks plus another 95L gray water tank, external hot/cold shower, washing machine, 2 x 120Ah lithium batteries, and a 600W solar power system. Of course, there’s ample lighting and storage throughout. A reverse cycle air conditioning system maintains the temperature inside regardless of where you go outside.

Elegantly designed and constructed from lightweight aluminum composite, with tough SupaGal boxed steel chassis. You’ll glide over the bumpy stuff thanks to Level 4 Tuff Ride Airbag Suspension of dual axle configuration, 16” all-terrain tires, DO35 tow hitch, electronic sway control, and a break-safe breakaway system. All of these are designed to smoothen your ride while keeping you safe if things get a little hairy. It’s a total winner for a luxuriously comfortable off-road adventure for three people.

OFF GRID LOTUS CARAVAN The Lotus looks mean, dark and serious on the outside, with a clean, bright interior that welcomes a long-term stay. Available in 11 customizable floor plans ranging from 19′ to 24’8” to fit a family of seven (SEVEN!), the Off Grid Caravan from Lotus Caravans is built to withstand the harshest uneven terrains. They don’t compromise on safety or convenience either. Its robust chassis features a G&S Control Rider TwinShock independent suspension with a DO45 coupling & Kojack, 12” off-road brakes and all-terrain Cooper Tires on custom 17″ wheels.

The super-stylish interior boasts modern furniture, matte & gloss laminate benchtops, soft-close drawers, and Italian leather seating. You’ll feel so special sitting in this interior that going back to your normal home will be considered a downgrade. Its REDARC Battery Management System, 200Ah of lithium battery, 800W of solar power, and low-power LED lighting will ensure you’ve got power wherever you go. Two 95L water tanks plus one gray water tank, 2 gas bottles, ceramic toilet, external shower, and a dust reduction system make it ideal for longer off-road explorations. The Lotus Off-Grid Caravan lives up to its name of being the epitome of rugged luxury for your toughest family outback adventures.

SUNLAND LONGREACH Sunland Caravans are known for high-quality, and their Longreach Caravan is no exception. An exterior which is more traditionally styled than the Lotus, and a worthy competitor that has to be on the list of our Best Off-Road Caravans for 2023. Its sturdy construction using composite fiberglass with independent suspension and aluminum chassis are marks of a serious off-the-grid caravan.

It has ample amenities for an off-road adventure, including an external kitchen, fridge, 190L & 60L water tanks, a shower, two 200Ah lithium batteries, four 180W solar panels and sufficient storage. A well-designed, spacious interior with genuine leather seating will keep you comfortable, and soft close drawers will avoid any unnecessary banging or clanging when you’re trying to rest. You even have the option for triple bunk beds, making it perfect for a family of five!

TRAKMASTER PILBARA S The Trakmaster Pilbara S is a beacon of excellence in the realm of off-road caravaning. With twin shock independent coil suspension, hot-dipped galvanized chassis cut for higher ground clearance and better departure angle, and a DO35 off-road coupling, conquering Australia’s roughest roads and trickier terrain will be as easy as walk in the park.

Its features include dual 150W solar panels, AGM deep cycle batteries with a battery management system, two 82L water tanks with monitors, a full ensuite, deluxe kitchen, and innerspring mattress providing cosy comfort while exploring the remote wilderness. Its unyielding durability, capable off-grid features, and rugged design with four choices of floor plans make it a standout choice for couple adventurers seeking the perfect off road caravan for their next holiday into arenas less-travelled.

ORIGINALLY FOUND ON- Source: Dealify(https://dealify.au/best-off-road-caravans-australia-2023/)

[cabinetpai425]

Transforming Spaces: The Art of Cabinet Painting

The heart of any home lies in its kitchen—a space where families gather, meals are prepared, and memories are created. Often overlooked, kitchen cabinets play a crucial role in defining the aesthetic and functionality of this vital space. While replacing cabinets may seem like a significant investment, an alternative and cost-effective solution is cabinet painting. In this article, we will delve into the art of cabinet painting, exploring the process, benefits, and tips for achieving a stunning transformation.

Cabinet painting is an increasingly popular method for giving kitchens a fresh and updated look without the hefty price tag of a full cabinet replacement. Let's take a closer look at the key aspects of cabinet painting:

1. Preparation: Before the first stroke of paint is applied, thorough preparation is essential. Begin by removing all cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware. Clean the surfaces with a degreaser to remove any accumulated grime and grease. Sanding is the next crucial step to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to. Fill any cracks or holes with wood filler, and finish the preparation by wiping down the surfaces to ensure a dust-free environment.

2. Choosing the Right Paint: Selecting the right paint is crucial for a successful cabinet painting project. Opt for a high-quality, durable paint that is specifically designed for cabinets and trim. Water-based paints are popular for their quick drying time and easy cleanup, while oil-based paints offer a more durable finish. Consider the sheen as well—semi-gloss or satin finishes are often recommended for cabinets, as they are easy to clean and provide a subtle shine.

3. Color Selection: The color of your cabinets can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your kitchen. Neutral tones like white, gray, or beige are timeless choices that can brighten up the space and create a clean, modern aesthetic. However, bold colors can also make a statement and add personality to the kitchen. Consider the existing color scheme in your kitchen and choose a cabinet color that complements it.

4. Application Techniques: The application of paint is a critical step in achieving a professional-looking finish. Use a high-quality brush or roller for a smooth application, and be mindful of brush strokes or roller marks. Spray painting is another option, providing an even and flawless finish, but it requires careful masking and a controlled environment. Whichever method you choose, apply thin coats and allow each layer to dry completely before adding the next.

5. Hardware Upgrades: To elevate the overall look of your cabinets, consider upgrading the hardware. New handles, knobs, or pulls can provide a fresh and contemporary feel. Choose hardware that complements the style and color of your cabinets, creating a cohesive and polished appearance.

6. Seal and Protect: Once the paint has dried and you are satisfied with the results, it's crucial to seal and protect the cabinets. Apply a clear topcoat or sealer to safeguard the paint finish from scratches, stains, and everyday wear and tear. This step not only enhances the longevity of your cabinet paint but also makes cleaning and maintenance easier.

7. Benefits of Cabinet Painting:

Cost-Effective: Cabinet painting is a budget-friendly alternative to replacing cabinets entirely. It allows homeowners to achieve a fresh and modern look without breaking the bank.

Quick Transformation: Unlike extensive remodeling projects, cabinet painting can be completed in a relatively short timeframe. This makes it an ideal option for those looking to revamp their kitchen without causing significant disruption.

Customization: Painting cabinets provides endless possibilities for customization. Homeowners can choose from a wide array of colors and finishes, allowing them to tailor the look of their kitchen to their personal style.

Environmental Impact: Choosing cabinet painting over replacement is a more sustainable option. It reduces the amount of waste generated from old cabinets and minimizes the environmental impact associated with manufacturing new ones.

8. Tips for a Successful Cabinet Painting Project:

Take Your Time: Rushing through the process can lead to mistakes and a subpar finish. Dedicate ample time to each step of the cabinet painting process for optimal results.

Invest in Quality Materials: High-quality paint, brushes, and sealers are essential for achieving a professional-looking finish. Investing in quality materials upfront will pay off in the long run.

Test Colors: Before committing to a color, test a small area or a sample board. Lighting conditions can significantly affect how a color appears, so it's essential to ensure you're happy with the choice in your specific kitchen environment.

Proper Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in the workspace, especially if using oil-based paints or spray painting. Adequate ventilation not only speeds up the drying process but also minimizes fumes.

In conclusion, cabinet painting is a transformative and cost-effective way to breathe new life into your kitchen. With careful preparation, the right materials, and attention to detail, homeowners can achieve professional-looking results that rival the impact of a full cabinet replacement. The benefits of cabinet painting extend beyond aesthetics, offering a sustainable and customizable solution for those seeking a kitchen makeover. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a first-time painter, the art of cabinet painting opens the door to endless possibilities for creating a kitchen that reflects your style and enhances the heart of your home.

[sunnyleahomesblog]

Cooking in Style: Trendy Kitchen Remodeling Tips for a Modern Makeover

In the heart of every home, the kitchen stands as a space where families gather, meals are prepared, and memories are created. A stylish and modern kitchen not only enhances the overall aesthetics of your home but also elevates the culinary experience. If you're considering a kitchen makeover, here are some trendy remodeling tips to bring your cooking space into the contemporary era.

1. Open Concept Design: Embrace the trend of open-concept kitchens that seamlessly integrate with the rest of your living space. Knock down unnecessary walls to create a spacious and inviting atmosphere. This not only promotes better communication but also allows natural light to flood the area, making it a brighter and more welcoming space.

2. Sleek and Functional Cabinetry: Opt for sleek, handle-less cabinets to achieve a minimalist and modern look. High-gloss finishes in neutral tones like white, gray, or black add a touch of sophistication. Consider deep drawers and pull-out shelves for convenient storage, keeping your kitchen clutter-free and organized. For expert advice on cabinetry, contact Sunnylea Homes, your go-to partner for elegant and functional kitchen solutions.

3. Smart Appliances: Infuse technology into your kitchen with smart appliances that make cooking a breeze. From smart refrigerators to Wi-Fi-enabled ovens, these innovations not only add a futuristic touch but also enhance efficiency. Imagine preheating your oven on your way home or checking the contents of your fridge from your smartphone. Stay ahead of the curve with the latest kitchen gadgets to make your culinary experience truly cutting-edge.

4. Quartz Countertops: Say goodbye to traditional granite and welcome the elegance of quartz countertops. Durable, low-maintenance, and available in a variety of colors and patterns, quartz adds a touch of luxury to your kitchen. Its non-porous nature makes it resistant to stains, ensuring your countertops stay pristine even after the messiest cooking sessions.

5. Statement Lighting: The entire atmosphere of your kitchen can be changed by the lighting. Incorporate statement pendant lights or chic chandeliers above the kitchen island to create a focal point. Choose fixtures that complement your overall design aesthetic and provide ample task lighting for cooking. A well-lit kitchen not only looks stunning but also ensures a functional and safe cooking environment.

6. Bold Backsplashes: Use a striking backsplash to create a statement. Subway tiles are timeless, but consider experimenting with geometric patterns, vibrant colors, or even textured materials like marble or metal. A striking backsplash not only protects your walls from splatters but also adds a touch of personality to your kitchen.

7. Mixed Materials: Embrace the trend of mixing different materials for a visually dynamic kitchen. Combine wood, metal, and glass elements to create a harmonious blend of textures. From wooden flooring to stainless steel appliances and glass-fronted cabinets, the juxtaposition of materials adds depth and character to your kitchen space.

8. Functional Islands: A kitchen island is not just a countertop; it's a multifunctional space that can serve as a prep area, dining table, or even a home office. Choose a design that complements your kitchen layout and provides additional storage. An island with built-in power outlets can also serve as a charging station for your gadgets, making it a truly versatile centerpiece.

9. Natural Elements: Incorporate natural elements into your kitchen design to bring the outside inside. Consider adding potted plants, herb gardens, or even a small indoor waterfall for a refreshing touch. Natural materials like wood and stone contribute to a warm and inviting atmosphere, creating a perfect balance with the sleek and modern features.

10. Personalized Touches: Finally, infuse your personality into the kitchen design with personalized touches. Display your favorite cookbooks, incorporate family photos, or add unique artwork to create a space that reflects your style. A well-designed kitchen is not just about following trends; it's about creating a space that feels like home.

Embark on your kitchen remodeling journey with these trendy tips, and transform your cooking space into a stylish haven where functionality meets aesthetics. For expert guidance on creating your dream kitchen, contact Sunnylea Homes, your trusted partner in crafting elegant and modern living spaces. Elevate your culinary experience and make your kitchen the heart of your home in true contemporary style.

[luxurycurtainsdesignideas]

Kitchen Cabinets: Kitchen cabinets are a fundamental element of kitchen design, serving both practical and aesthetic purposes. They play a crucial role in defining the style, storage capacity, and functionality of the kitchen space. Here are some notable trends and considerations in kitchen cabinets: 1. Cabinet Styles: Various cabinet styles cater to different design aesthetics. Traditional cabinets with raised-panel doors and ornate details offer a timeless and elegant look. On the other hand, modern and contemporary cabinets feature clean lines, sleek hardware, and a minimalist appearance. Shaker-style cabinets, characterized by their simple, recessed panel design, are a versatile choice that suits a range of styles from classic to contemporary. 2. Cabinet Finishes: Cabinet finishes can dramatically impact the overall look of the kitchen. While white and light-colored cabinets continue to be popular for their timeless and airy feel, darker finishes like deep blues, charcoal grays, and rich greens are gaining ground, adding depth and sophistication to kitchen designs. Matte finishes are becoming trendy for their modern and understated appeal, while high-gloss finishes offer a sleek and reflective surface. 3. Open Shelving: Open shelving is a growing trend that adds a sense of openness and personality to the kitchen. It allows homeowners to display favorite dishes, glassware, and decorative items, adding a personalized touch to the space. However, open shelving requires organized and clutter-free display for a cohesive look. 4. Two-Tone Cabinets: Two-tone cabinet designs, where upper and lower cabinets have different colors or finishes, create a striking visual contrast. This trend allows for creative color combinations that can make a statement and add visual interest to the kitchen. 5. Cabinet Hardware: Cabinet hardware, including handles and knobs, can significantly impact the cabinet's style. Sleek, minimalist hardware complements modern and contemporary designs, while ornate and antique hardware suits more traditional aesthetics. Brass and matte black finishes are trendy choices for cabinet hardware, adding a touch of luxury and contrast. 6. Smart Storage Solutions: Maximizing storage space is a top priority in kitchen design. Pull-out drawers, tray dividers, pull-out pantry shelves, and built-in spice racks are popular cabinet features that enhance organization and accessibility. Additionally, soft-close mechanisms on cabinet doors and drawers provide a quiet and gentle closing action. 7. Glass-Front Cabinets: Glass-front cabinets are a stylish choice that allows for the display of dishes, glassware, and collectibles. They add an element of transparency and can make the kitchen feel more open. Options include clear glass, frosted glass, or textured glass for added privacy. 8. Sustainable Materials: Eco-friendly materials and finishes are gaining traction in kitchen cabinet construction. Sustainable woods like bamboo, reclaimed wood, and low-VOC paints and finishes are being embraced by environmentally conscious homeowners. 9. Customization: Customized cabinets are increasingly sought after to meet specific design and storage needs. Custom cabinetry allows homeowners to optimize every inch of available space and tailor the kitchen's layout to their preferences. 10. Hidden Appliances: Concealing appliances behind cabinet panels is a trend that creates a seamless and integrated kitchen design. Refrigerators, dishwashers, and even microwave drawers can be discreetly hidden behind cabinetry, maintaining a cohesive and uncluttered look. Ultimately, the choice of kitchen cabinets depends on your personal style, functional requirements, and budget. Careful consideration of cabinet styles, finishes, and storage solutions can result in a kitchen that not only meets your practical needs but also reflects your design aesthetic and lifestyle.

[contemporarybath]

Improving Homes With Modern Kitchens in Calgary

In the modern world, kitchens have changed from being just places to cook to being the heart of a home. Modern kitchens in Calgary are a good example of this change because they combine usefulness, aesthetics, and new ideas in design in a way that looks great. With a focus on combining cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and smart use of space, these kitchens have become a sign of both luxury and efficiency.

The Key Parts of Modern Kitchens

Contemporary kitchens in Calgary have clean lines, a minimalist style, and a perfect mix of form and function. They are made to be useful places to work while also being stylish places for people to meet and have fun. Modern kitchens are defined by a number of important parts.

Unique materials and finishes

Modern kitchens in Calgary often use new kinds of materials and finishes that give them a sleek and stylish look. High-gloss cabinets, stainless steel appliances, and quartz countertops are all common choices. These materials not only have a modern look, but they are also durable and easy to clean, which makes them perfect for busy homes.

Open layouts and smart space use

Modern kitchens tend to have open plans that make it easy to move between cooking, eating, and lounging areas. Open plans give a sense of space, making it easy to move around and encouraging people to talk to each other. Smart room use is also important. Custom storage solutions, such as pull-out cabinets and hidden drawers, increase storage space and keep things from getting messy.

Using cutting-edge technology

Technology is highly integrated into modern kitchens, which makes them easier to use and more useful. Smart appliances, like refrigerators with touchscreens and ovens that can connect to Wi-Fi, have advanced features that make daily chores easier. Built-in charging stations, under-cabinet lighting with adjustable color temperatures, and sound systems add to the modern cooking experience.

Design Principles of Modern Kitchens

The "less is more" idea is at the heart of modern kitchen design. Minimalist style is created by using clean lines, simple geometric forms, and a limited color palette. The color plan is mostly white, gray, and neutral tones, which creates an uncluttered and relaxing atmosphere. This way of designing not only looks nice, but also makes the room feel more peaceful.

A lot of natural light

Modern kitchens often have large windows or glass doors that let natural light flood the area. Natural light not only shows off the design features, but also makes the space feel warm and inviting. This focus on natural light fits with the idea of making the indoors feel more like the outdoors, softening the lines between the kitchen and its surroundings.

Geometric Patterns and Texture

Geometric designs and textures add depth and visual interest to modern kitchens. From backsplash tiles with complex geometric designs to textured cabinet fronts, these elements break up the monotony and create a lively and interesting space.

The Effect on Home Value and Appeal

Putting in a modern kitchen in a Calgary home can greatly raise its market value and overall appeal. Prospective buyers are often drawn to homes with modern kitchens that promise a sophisticated lifestyle. The sleek design and useful features of these kitchens make them a big draw for people looking to buy.

Improved functionality and efficiency

Aside from how they look, modern kitchens are made to be as useful and efficient as possible. Smart storage solutions, ergonomic layouts, and high-tech tools make for a kitchen that is not only beautiful to look at but also a joy to work in. Homeowners like how easy it is to make meals, host guests, and do daily chores.

Future-Proof Investments

Investing in a modern kitchen is a good move for the future. The kitchen will still look good and be useful for years to come because it was made with materials that will last and design ideas that will never go out of style. Also, the use of cutting-edge technology makes sure that the kitchen can adapt to new ideas, which adds to its life.

[allstyleretrofitkitchen]

IKEA Cabinets and Stylish Cabinet Doors Can Transform Your Kitchen

IKEA is a name that quickly comes to mind when it comes to constructing a functional and stylish kitchen. IKEA, well-known for their inventive and cheap furniture solutions, provides a large selection of kitchen cabinets that may completely transform your cooking environment. To add a personal touch, you may select from a variety of cabinet doors that perfectly suit your IKEA kitchen. In this blog post, we will look at the world of IKEA cabinets and the numerous cabinet door alternatives.

IKEA kitchen cabinets are no exception to its reputation for smart design and functionality. IKEA has a cabinet size and arrangement to meet your needs, whether you have a small apartment kitchen or a large culinary heaven. The cabinets are made of long-lasting materials that ensure longevity and effectiveness. You may simply personalize your kitchen layout with IKEA's modular system by combining different cabinet sizes and designs.

Let us now discuss cabinet doors. Cabinet doors are quite important in determining the overall design of your kitchen. Because they can rapidly change the look and feel of a room, it is critical to select doors that complement your own style. IKEA has a number of options, such as slab doors and shaker doors, allowing you to design a kitchen that represents your personal style.

Slab doors are sleek and simple, making them ideal for creating a modern kitchen design. They have a smooth, flat surface with no frills or decoration. This sleek and uncluttered style is great for people who want a clean and streamlined aesthetic. Slab doors are available in a variety of materials, including wood, laminate, and high-gloss finishes, allowing you to select the one that best meets your needs.

Shaker doors, on the other hand, have a timeless and traditional appearance. These Shaker-style doors include a frame with a sunken center panel, which was inspired by the Shakers' traditional craftsmanship. Shaker doors add warmth and charm to your kitchen while also complementing a variety of decor styles. Shaker doors can be adjusted to fit your desired mood, whether you like a rustic farmhouse kitchen or a more classic style.

One of the most significant benefits of using IKEA cabinets is the option to mix and match different door types. This enables you to create a one-of-a-kind and customised kitchen design. To create aesthetic interest and contrast, pick shaker doors for your base cabinets and slab doors for your upper cabinets. This design mix adds depth and refinement to your kitchen, increasing its overall attractiveness.

IKEA offers a wide range of colors and finishes in addition to a number of door types. Whether you want a classic white kitchen or a bold and vibrant palette, there is a color to fit your taste. IKEA kitchen offers a plethora of alternatives for constructing your perfect kitchen, ranging from basic tones like beige and gray to bolder options like navy blue or forest green.

When designing your IKEA kitchen, keep the functioning of the cabinet doors in mind. IKEA offers a variety of innovative features, including as soft-close hinges and drawer systems, that make cooking more convenient and user-friendly. These considerate touches ensure that your cabinets not only look wonderful but also perform properly on a daily basis.

Finally, IKEA kitchen cabinets and cabinet doors provide a plethora of options for altering your kitchen. IKEA has a wide choice of solutions to fit your style, whether you prefer the sleek and futuristic aesthetic of slab doors or the timeless beauty of shaker doors.

[kevinszabojrplumbing]

8 Accessories That Can Add a Cozy Feeling to Your Bathroom

In every home, the bathroom is a sanctuary and among the places where you can retreat to relax and be alone. It is also probably the first place you go when you wake up, so you want to ensure it is comfortable, clean, and cozy.

 What Does Your Bathroom Say About You?

 White bathroom

White is a popular bathroom color for many homeowners. It helps open up the room, making it feel and look bigger than it is. It also makes you feel cleaner, fresher, and calmer.

A white bathroom means you are picky, well-organized, self-disciplined, not impulsive, and prefer more cautious and sensible approaches. It also means you value high efficiency from people, which can make you demanding.

 Color chameleon

Adding different vibrant colors to your bathroom is one way to help boost your mood every time you go in. You can add different colors or shades of the same color, showing that you love exploring and experimenting with new things.

Many people incorporate purple in their bathrooms, which reflects an imaginative, intense, and intuitive personality.

 Industrial style

This style mainly involves using concrete in certain bathroom features. You can also include a range of smooth, tints, pebbled, or grainy textures, a rustic patina, waxed satiny gleam, or a high-gloss finish.

This kind of bathroom means you are a no-nonsense and hands-on person who is not afraid to get dirty doing physical jobs like building and heavy gardening.

 Green scene

Adding greenery to living spaces has become a more popular trend. Depending on your preferences and the plants ' maintenance levels, you can have live or artificial plants around the bathroom.

If you choose such a bathroom, you are very loving and caring, and that love extends to pets, family, friends, and pets. It also shows you are enthusiastic, well-balanced, patient, kind, and energetic.

 Resort remake

One thing that people remember when they go on vacations in luxurious hotels is the bathroom. Most of these bathrooms usually have muted colors like gray, black, and white.

If you remodel your bathroom trying to remake the resort look, you are composed, committed, practical, loyal, hardworking, and undemonstrative. It also means you don't like a lot of attention and crave stability.

 8 Accessories To Add a Cozy Feel To Your Bathroom

 Towels

Invest in absorbent, soft, and aesthetically pleasing towels to give you something cozy to snuggle up after your shower or bath. You can buy one color or mix and match cozy colors to match your bathroom color scheme.

 You should also invest in an excellent way to display them. You can invest in different types and shapes of towel racks, look for hooks, or roll them up on a shelf.

 Bath mat

A bathmat is essential because it decorates the bathroom and protects you from slips and slides. You can use another rug to fill the space and bring the room together if you have extra room.

 Shelving

Shelves act as storage and decoration accessories. Therefore, incorporate over-the-toilet shelves plus other wall-hanging or freestanding shelving units.

 Furniture

Adding small furniture pieces like an ottoman, short stool, and end tables can help elevate the space if you have more space in your bathroom. You can use them to sit as you get ready after your shower or to organize and display colorful bottles, towels, candles, etc.

 Art and mirrors

Art makes any space feel and look more homey, and it is an excellent way to distract yourself as you relax. You can also add mirrors that help open up the room and double as decoration.

 Plants

If you have enough space and enough natural light space, plants help add a cozy and spa atmosphere. You can place them on the room's windows, shelves, and other furniture pieces.

 Matching hardware and products

Nothing screams cozy than a monochromatic look. Therefore, try matching your hardware like cabinet and drawer handles, faucets, taps, curtain rings, towel racks, toilet paper holders, etc.

You should also invest in matching bathroom products like shampoos, conditioners, and skincare.

 Scents

The most common scent addition is using candles. You can also have a diffuser and herbs or add a few essential oil drops to cotton balls in a dish. It would help to also take out the trash and remove damp towels.

 What Every Bathroom Should Have

In addition to things that make a bathroom cozier, below are some basic items that should be in every bathroom.

●      Shower curtain

●      Soap dispenser

●      Toothbrush holder

●      Storage bins and baskets

●      Trash can

●      Hamper

●      Bathrobes

●      Hand soap

●      Toilet brush and container

●      Plunger

●      First aid kit or medicine cabinet

●      Toilet paper storage

●      Bathing sponges

●      Makeup towels

●      Slippers

 Written by Taylor McKnight, Author for Madison Lily Rugs

[bentleydesignsoutlet]

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[guncelkal]

vidaXL TV Cabinet High Gloss Gray 47.2"x13.4"x11.8" Engineered Wood

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[clouditae]

First Love | 08

Yoongi x reader | 18+ | college au | tattoo artist au | angst | fluff | swearing | alcohol | mild smut | thigh riding 

Word: 4.9k

You first saw him in the multi-purpose room. Later learn his name, and on your third year, as he becomes your neighbor, you discover his lifestyle. Knowing your crush on him was nothing but that, you wanted to find the courage to look for love. Asking your friend for help, you’re pointed in the direction of the expert. Your neighbor, Min Yoongi

Chapter Index

[12:57 pm] Jerk: Wear something nice

Something nice? Like formal? Cute?  What are you supposed to do? 

You groan, tossing your phone on your bed, and grabbing your shower caddie and towel before entering the bathroom to shower. As you shower, you begin to think of what kind of outfits you have in your closet you can wear. You can put on a pair of jeans and a nice top if you can find one. Should you wear black jeans or blue? A sweatshirt or sweater? A shirt and cardigan? So many simple and boring outfits to wear and you still can’t decide. 

When you finish showering, you step out into your room to still find it empty. Seems Ari is going to have dinner with Hoseok tonight. You toss your towel on your bed as you open your top drawer to your dresser under your bed. You dig through the drawer until you pull out your black bra and panties. After putting them on, you open your closet door and scan through your wardrobe. Of course, like you predicted, you have exactly what you thought. Boring, simple clothes. You continue to dig through your clothes, passing through t-shirts and tank tops you know are not nice enough to be worn in front of Yoongi. 

You freeze. “Oh my God I’m trying so hard to impress the guy I like who’s trying to help me find someone else.” You’re stressing yourself out over something so silly, yet you want so badly to get his attention. Is this ridiculous? It has to be. 

Sighing loudly, you start at the front of the line of your clothes where sweaters and sweatshirts hang. What surprises you is finding a skirt at the start of the line rather than finding a shirt. You pull out the burgundy colored skirt, trying to remember why you have this. Then it hit you. Your mom bought you this skirt thinking you’ll wear this for school. You didn’t have it in your heart to leave it in your room knowing you never would wear it, so you brought it here. Who knew you’d wear it now. 

Pulling the skirt from its hanger, you put it on. The skirt starts at your waist and ends at your ankle. It flows at your movement as you sway side-to-side. Now, what kind of shirt should you wear? You really don’t have anything that can go with it. Well, you do but it’s in the basket and needs to be washed, but you don’t have enough time to toss it in before you’re supposed to meet with Yoongi. Glancing at Ari’s closet, you guess she probably has a lot more cute shirts. You feel guilty about not asking her for permission to borrow her things first, but you know she won’t be answering her phone if you call or text her. You’ll have to apologize to her later. 

Stepping to her closet, you open it to be met with all sorts of colors and styles. You begin to skim through it, passing all the revealing shirts you can never bring yourself to wear. You’re beginning to lose hope until something catches your eye. Bringing out the gray sweater you realize it’s a crop top. Now what are you supposed to do? 

Glancing at the clock on your desk from the mirror, you’ve come to the conclusion that you don’t have enough time to debate. Tossing the shirt on your bed, and putting the hanger back on the rack, you close the closet door before grabbing your towel off your bed and dry your hair. You do what you can with your hair and face in a short amount of time. It’s always wake up, shower and leave rather than wake up earlier, shower and put on makeup then go. Now you actually have to try with a nice outfit like the one you’re wearing. When you’re done, you put on the shirt and stare at yourself in the mirror. 

The end of the crop top meets with the beginning of your skirt, so no skin is actually revealed unless you lifted your arms. Now it’s just time for shoes. Digging through your closet, you’re lucky to have brought your black ankle boots. Putting on a pair of socks, you slip your feet into the boots and give yourself a once over again. You honestly feel cute, and you can’t stop the butterflies from fluttering in your stomach at the thought of Yoongi seeing you. 

Will he think you look cute, too?

You shake your head of that thought as you grab a small purse from the hook in your closet. Fishing your wallet from your school bag, you put it in your purse, along with your keys, and lip gloss. Going over everything in your head to make sure you have everything, you close the closet door. Picking your phone up from your bed where it lies charging, you check the time. You have five minutes to get to the back parking lot. Pulling your phone from its charger you unlock it and go to your messages to send a quick text to Ari.

[5:55 pm] Me: IOU

Locking your phone you take a deep breath before heading out the door. Feeling nervous, you walk in the opposite direction of the hall you normally go. The hall is rather quiet except for the sound of your boots hitting the floor as you walk. You leave your hall, passing the staircase where those living at the end of your hall and those living in the east hall can access. You don’t go down the stairs but enter the east hall, making a right and head towards the door leading to the back of the building.  

Stepping out into the cool night air you suppress a shiver as you start down the steps. Reaching the last step, your eyes scan the small parking lot in the distance. You can’t see all the cars, but with the ones you do, you don’t see anyone or Yoongi’s car. The sounds of laughter can be heard from one of the open windows as you walk past the second housing building. As you get closer, you’re able to see the rest of the small parking lot, and standing next to a familiar car is Yoongi looking down at his phone as he leans against his car. 

You take in a deep breath before walking up to him, thoughts racing with so many of the same questions that you thought of before when you looked at yourself in the mirror. From the sound of your heels clicking, Yoongi looks up to meet your eyes. He locks his phone and pushes himself off his car, looking you up and down before saying, “Good outfit.” 

“Thank you,” you mumble, trying not to look like that simple compliment makes you want to turn into a puddle. From the street light you can see his outfit. He’s wearing all black; the sleeves of his buttoned up shirt is rolled up to his elbow revealing his right arm to be completely covered in tattoos. You’ve never seen those before. You remember your first time dorming here, he wore a short sleeved shirt and you saw just one tattoo. Now it seems like a sleeve. 

“Let’s head out,” he tells you, pulling out his keys from his pocket to unlock the doors. 

You quickly walk to the passenger door and get inside the car. Placing your purse on your lap, you pull the seat belt over and buckle yourself in as Yoongi starts the car. The music plays quietly in the background while he puts the car in drive, turns the headlights on, and turns right to exit the parking lot. 

You try to keep your eyes forward, but you keep glancing at his inked arm. You can’t help but wonder when he got it. It must have hurt to sit there for hours to get one thing done. Then you remember the conversation that happened at the diner between Hoseok and Yoongi. 

“Are you a tattoo artist?” you ask him, fully turning to look at him. 

You can see him give you a quick glance before turning back on the road. “I am,” he replies. 

So that’s what Hoseok and Yoongi meant by shop. “How long have you been an artist?” 

“I got my license about a year ago.” 

“So you’re majoring in arts?” you question, interested in getting to know more about him. You’re going to ask as much as you can before he says something about it. 

“Music production,” he corrects. 

You cock your head lightly. “You want to be a producer?”

“I like music and tattooing. One only needed a high school diploma, so I decided to get more educated in producing.” Yoongi makes a right turn down a neighborhood. “Why photography?” he suddenly voices. 

“Why did I major in photography?” He nods in response. You turn yourself to face forward as you answer, “I know there isn’t a lot to do in photography, but just like this project, I want to work with the wildlife and get people to see what’s happening. I also want to take photos of models on a runway. It would be interesting to see in person rather than on television all the time.” Yoongi begins to slow down, driving by a line of cars with a few people getting out and walking in the same direction Yoongi drives. He continues down the street, passing the long line of cars until you finally see why the cars are parked. People are standing outside a big, two story house with a banner draped along the front with strange signs on it. "We're going to a sorority house?"

"It's a party," he states, finally pulling into a parking spot a bit further up ahead.

You can already feel your anxiety kicking in. "Either way, there is going to be a lot of people," you stammer. You don't do big crowds. They'll judge you and the sorority girls will be mean because they don't know you —

"I'll be with you the whole time. Don't worry," Yoongi reassures, turning the car off and opening the car door to get out.

You shakily get out of the car as well, closing the door as he walks up to you. "You promise?"

He looks at you for a second before grabbing your purse from your shaking hands. He drapes the strap over your head so that it goes across your chest. "Promise. Now today we're just going to have a few drinks, talk to a few people, and relax. You won't be doing anything on your own."

You nod, watching him click a button on his key and hearing his car lock from behind you. You follow him as the two of you make your way towards the house, and that's when you finally hear the muffled music. You couldn't hear it before over your racing thoughts, but now it’s as clear as day. Keeping as close as possible to Yoongi, the sorority house comes to view, chatter can be heard and everyone seems to be having a good time. 

Following Yoongi up the walkway, you can hear the music a bit more clearly blaring on the other side of the door. You quietly take a deep breath and blow it out as Yoongi reaches for the handle and opens the door. The music is loud; the people are loud. Your fear skyrockets. The place is cramped as you maneuver your way through to follow Yoongi further in the house. You can see a big group of people dancing to your left, some bodies grinding on one another while others jump. 

Turning your attention back to what’s in front of you, you realize Yoongi is no longer there. You scan around the area, but find no sign of him. You want to call out for him, but that would make you look like you’re scared, and you don’t want people to know you’re lost and know no one besides Yoongi. Now to a more reasonable excuse, you’re sure no one can hear you over the blaring music. Taking in a deep breath, you continue forward, heading in the direction you’re already going. You keep going until you enter a different, more spacious room. Looking around you realize it’s a sitting area with a few couches forming a square in the middle of the room. A few chairs placed along the walls and another doorway leading to what seems to be the kitchen to your right. 

Not wanting to wander and end up somewhere you don’t want to be, you take a seat at one of the chairs lining the wall, taking in a deep breath to calm yourself. You fish your phone out of your purse and unlock it, seeing a text from Ari. You click on the message. 

[6:48 pm] Ari: ???

You quickly reply, glancing up at the group of people sitting at the couches in the center of the room laughing at something someone said. 

[7:06 pm] Me: I borrowed your shirt

“Did you come here alone?” 

Looking up from your phone, you see two girls standing in front of you. “Me?” you ask dumbly. 

The blonde with blue eyes laughs. “Yes you,” she replies. She’s wearing a white hoodie with jean shorts. Her black haired friend next to her wears the same. You wonder if they’re part of a sorority. 

“I didn’t come here alone, but I did get lost so I’m just waiting,” you inform them, smiling politely, but deep down you’re a bit afraid. You don’t know how to be as social as them, or as bubbly. 

“Well rather than sit here alone, come join us,” the girl with black hair says, grabbing your arm and pulling you to your feet. Her friend joins in as well, now basically dragging you across the room to the kitchen. You don’t have much of an option since you know you can’t decline their offer. Well, they’re really not giving you one either as you enter the kitchen. You’ll just have to follow along and wait for Yoongi to find you, or you find him which would be a miracle if you’re brave enough to wander. That also only depends if you can escape the over excited twins currently dragging you past the kitchen and into another room that has a few people surrounding a folding table. Stepping closer, you notice ten, red cups on either end of the table. It takes you a minute to remember what this setup is, but Ari’s constant begging to have a game in your dorm room jogs your memory. They’re playing beer pong.

“We found a new player!” one of the girls cheers, a hand on your back. 

Eyes of several people look to you, and it’s then that you realize you’re the new player. “Oh, uh. I’ve never played before,” you tell them, tone awkward as you rub your hands together like you usually do when you’re unsure of what to do. 

“Don’t worry about that! It’s pretty simple, really. You just toss the ball across the table into one of the cups and the opponent drinks. You miss, they don’t drink, and the same goes for you, too.” You meet eyes with the blonde as she grabs your arm and leads you to the left side of the table. “Your partner will be Hanbin,” she tells you, pointing to a tall figure standing across the table. 

He’s handsome, you can’t deny that. He has jet black hair, his hazel eyes lighting up as he smiles at you. As he walks to your side of the table, you notice his high cheekbones and pointed nose, his smile crooked. You can smell his cologne. “Hey, new teammate, you ready to win this?” his tone gravelly as he asks. When you open your mouth and say nothing, he chuckles, “Don’t worry. I’ll help as much as I can.” He pats your back. “Let’s start!”

A female from across the table laughs. Just like how Hanbin’s good looking, the girl across the table is beautiful. Her strawberry blonde hair up in a perfect, messy bun, her cognac colored eyes staring at him in a playful manner, and her voice as smooth as honey. She’s wearing the cutest floral dress with a jean jacket. “Don’t get so cocky yet, babe. You’re playing against the champion right now.” 

Hanbin chuckles, shaking his head. "We'll see. My girl is a pro, Sam." Sam, the girl across the table, only smiles. "Let's win — uh. Sorry I didn't catch your name," Hanbin tells you, a sheepish smile gracing his lips.

"Y/N," you tell him in a small voice. These two are so social; it’s hard to keep up.

"Okay, Y/N. Let's kick their asses and be champions of the month!" He holds his hand up for you to high five.

You lightly hit it. "A whole month?"

Hanbin smirks. "Yeah. Every month the sorority has a competition and the winner has their picture taken and hung on the wall for a month." He jerks his thumb behind him to the wall of photos. You look past him and at the pictures of teams from the previous games. "Last time I won was about last semester?" He places his hands on either side of your shoulders, guiding you to the end of the table, standing to his left. "Okay. Who goes first?"

Sam taps her chin in thought. "Well since you're so cocky, I guess we'll let you go first." She tosses both ping pong balls to him.

"It's not being cocky, it's being confident," he exclaims, handing you a ball. You take the ball with hesitation. Are you supposed to just throw it right now? You’ve never played before, and you've never actually seen Ari play. What are you supposed to do? You watch Hanbin raise his hand to eye level, the ball in his first three fingers. He stares in concentration before tossing the ball. It flies across the table and lands straight in the red cup at the front. "And that's how it's done," he cheers, grinning from ear to ear.

"Game just started, bro," Sam's partner chuckles.

"Yeah, yeah," Hanbin begins, turning to look at you, "I'm confident we'll win, so don't feel like you have to make it right now. We have nine more tries to win." You nod, but his words only make you more nervous. So, with shaky hands, you copy his position. Facing the table, you stare at the cups. You'll have to toss it lightly, but not too lightly and not too hard. You toss with medium force, watching the ball actually go in. Hanbin cheers for you as you stare in shock. "Drink up, my dudes!"

Taking out two shot glasses, Sam pours liquor into the glasses, handing one to her partner and takes a shot. And so the game continues on. You've had six shots so far, and you feel the buzz at drink two. You're a lightweight it seems, seeing as you don't really drink. You’re giggling as Sam misses the cups, overshooting the ball. Eventually it’s down to one cup on both teams. You can't aim to save your life, and Hanbin seems like he's not even buzzing.

"Let's make this more interesting," Sam suggests.

That seems to have caught Hanbin's attention. "What do you have in mind?"

Sam smirks at his interest. "We each toss a ball in the cup."

"So one ball each team," Hanbin states.

"Exactly."

Hanbin chuckles. "Deal," he says, tossing one ping pong ball to Sam. You have no idea what's going on, but you watch in silence and slight dizziness as Hanbin gets into his position, Sam getting into hers. Then, as the entire table stares in silence, the two toss their balls. You don't know where to look, but you try to keep your eyes on Hanbin's ball, watching it make it in the cup. He cheers, you cheering along with him. However, Sam and her partner are cheering as well.

"Oh shit, it's a tie," someone laughs.

You look into the cup to see a ball floating. They did make it, and that means she won as well. "What happens now?" you slur.

Hanbin pats your head. "We tied. All four of us end up on the wall."

"That also means we take one last shot," Sam chimes in from across the table, already pouring her glass.

You turn to look at Hanbin with worry. "I don't think I can take anymore," you explain, knowing that if you take this last shot you may throw up.

"Don't worry, I'll take your shot for you," he reassures, pouring a glass, drinking it, and pouring another. You look at him with such admiration as he takes your shot for you. He is your hero at this very moment. You want to hug him with gratitude, but that's not like you. Maybe it's because you're drunk and it seems like you're more of an extrovert when you've had a few drinks in you. You really want to hug him.

"Okay let's take that photo. We're breaking history, ladies and gentlemen," Sam says, handing someone the camera and walking over towards you, followed by her partners whose name you still don't know. She throws her arm around your shoulder, Hanbin doing the same, and the stranger stood next to Sam. You all look to the camera and smile, the flash blinding you briefly.

"That was fun — it was great," you tell them, looking to both Sam and Hanbin as they smile in agreement. "Thanks for letting me play." 

"Of course!" your partner voices, giving you another pat on your back, but it’s a bit more rough. Maybe he is feeling the alcohol kick in. Or he's so happy for his victory that he forgot his own strength. Or you're just over guessing it.

You look at the crowd staring at you, meeting eyes with the person you've been looking for but totally forgot you’re supposed to be looking for him the second you took your first drink. "Yoongi!" you call, tone more high-pitched than it normally is. You happily skip over to him, a big smile on your face. "I just won a game of ping pong!" You shake your head. "Beer pong!"

He stares at you with that blank face you’re beginning to find annoying. "I saw," he quips.

You frown. "Really? Then why didn't you come get me? I lost you earlier and waited at the chairs until you found me, but you didn't and now I'm drunk and a little dizzy. But I made some new friends!" He looks behind you at your two new friends, but his expression looks dejected. For the first time, you’re able to make out an expression, and it made your chest hurt at the look he’s giving. "Yoongi?" you whisper.

He looks back at you, expression disappearing as he looks you up and down before grabbing your wrist and leading you out of the room, past the kitchen and sitting room and into the main room where it’s still packed with dancing and mingling people. You think he would take you out the front door and home, but instead he drags you past everyone and into a hallway. He keeps his hold on your wrist as he lightly drags you down the hall. You wonder where he’s taking you, but your questions are answered when he opens a door, pulling you in with him to the bathroom.

You turned to look at him, shocked as he lets your wrist go and closes the door... locking it.

The butterflies in your stomach erupt, heart racing as you watch him turn to look at you. You’re hoping your flushed cheeks aren't noticeable. Maybe your cheeks are already red from the alcohol.

"At parties, you might find someone you find attractive, and you might end up in a situation like this." He takes a step towards you. "At first you might make out, and that could lead to sex. Our first lesson will be on quickies," he says in such a monotonous tone. 

“W-what?” you babble, taking a few steps back until you hit the wall. 

“We’re not actually going to have sex. All I’m going to do is demonstrate,” he tells you, taking a few steps forward. 

"Demonstrate? How—what do you do to demonstrate... sex?" you quaver, keeping your eyes on his chin rather than looking him in the eyes. You don't want him to see the mixed look of fear and excitement in your eyes. You're more open to wanting him to touch you now than you were when you first met him. Or it's the alcohol letting out your inner feelings.

"Before I start," he begins, crossing his arms over his chest, "do you want to do this? When we agreed to do this, I told you that I would teach you everything. Clearly sex wasn't in your mind when I told you." He stares at you intently. "How sober are you?"

"Sober enough to remember that conversation," you sass.

"Clearly," he articulates. "So when you're alone with a guy like this, he will usually start by touching your cheeks, arms and hands." Yoongi cups your cheeks, your breath hitching as you feel his cool palms against your warm skin. "Whenever you're uncomfortable tell me and I'll stop." You only nod in response, all emotions melting from his touch, leaving you with only one. "He would kiss your lips"—his thumb brushing along your lips—"then maybe move down to your neck."

You feel his hand that’s touching your lips move down to your neck. A shiver runs through you as you watch him continue to demonstrate what can happen in this room right now. He’s talking, but you can't hear him. You’re so lost in your thoughts that you’re fighting your own urges. All you have to do is lean forward and press your lips against his. Feel his lips move around yours for a bit, tongue gliding across your lips every so often before it finally explores your own mouth and dances with your tongue. HIs hands will travel down, under your top, cupping you outside your bra before snaking his way under them to feel you. You'll arch your back to feel more of his hands work its magic. Your body feels weird as you let your imagination run wild. You feel hot, and it isn't like the warmth you felt earlier when you began drinking. This is different.

"This will eventually lead to something more. Sometimes they'll pin your hands to prevent you from touching." You don't know when his hands were on your hips, but he removes them and grabs your wrists, pinning them above your head. You feel something force itself between your legs, brushing along your region. A moan escapes your lips, your body jumping from how sensitive it is.

You freeze in realization. You just moaned. Not only did you moan, but you just realize what that one feeling you’ve had since he started his demonstration. You're horny. What are you supposed to do? You can't play it off as a surprised sound, he's heard it before every time he scares you. You can't blame it on someone outside the room, you can only hear the music. So what are you going to do? You nervously look at Yoongi who was just staring at you. Yup. He totally heard you.

He says nothing. He doesn't say anything to you as he brings your hands together, holding them still with one of his hands as the other grabs your skirt. He lifts it. You can feel your skirt brush along your skin, going higher and higher until it reaches your thighs. The cold air from the air-conditioning hits your legs as you feel his thigh touch your warmth. You stay still as he let your skirt go, his leg disappearing underneath. He then grabs your waist tightly. You don't know what he’s going to do, but as he pulls you forward along his thigh, you inhale sharply, feeling a pleasure course through you.

He pushes you back then forth on his thigh, the friction becomes rougher as your panties become wetter and the fabric of his jeans becomes your source of continuing to feel this pleasure. Your breathing is getting heavier, eyes closing as you pick up your pace. You look down to see if you can view your movements, to see yourself brushing along his thigh, but it’s blocked by your skirt. All you can see is the movements of your hips. Placing a finger under your chin, Yoongi brings your head back up to look at him. You feel his finger travel down and to the middle of your neck before he wraps his hand around your neck, squeezing ever so lightly.

You whimper, feeling yourself build up. You don't have a rhythm anymore as you ride his thigh in an unnatural pattern. All to feel his thigh against your core; to feel him build you up and break you down as you reach your high. And that's what happens. You let out a choked moan as you feel the pressure release itself, your legs shaking, breathing stops as your high disappears.

Min Yoongi gave you your first orgasm.

[agustdef]

I Found You

Pairing: Tattoo Artist!Hoseok x Doctor!Reader.

Genre: One Night Stand to Lovers; Fluff; Angst; Smut.

Word Count: 25.9K

Warning: Angsty. Language. Sexual activities. Daddy kink. Mild mention of pain within pleasure. 

Rating: 18+.

Banner Maker: @httpangelicjimin​ is the lovely human who dealt with me changing my banner and being willing to change the title on this one when I thought to use it for a story I’d pulled at of my ass at that exact moment.

Beta Reader: @mindays​ is the sweetest bean in the world who betas all my stuff and not only corrects things, but makes me feel like I’m not just writing trash. 

YN just wanted a weekend of peace and doing nothing. She’d spent a week doing twelve–hour shifts at the hospital and despite doing her best to take breaks she was drained. So, when one of the other doctors said they needed to swap their three–day weekend for one she had two weeks later she jumped at the chance.

It was like the universe was on her side. 

So, she’d spent Friday sleeping and eating. Somehow, she’d even managed to get in some yoga, which made her body feel like it was on cloud nine. All the tension and stress of being on her feet melting away. It was just what she needed. 

And she planned to spend her Friday night the same way. Surrounded by snacks as she watched the k–drama Goblin from the comfort of her bed and planned to order dinner as soon as the two leads finally confessed. She was so enthralled with the scene playing out – despite seeing it a million times – that she didn’t even notice the door to her bedroom open and her roommate enter.

It was just as the moment she was waiting for was to happen that she was alerted.

“What are you doing?” Beau asked, well shouted.

Startled, YN whipped her head around to stare at the male, eyes wide and chest heaving. Her heart felt like it was going to jump from her chest.

“What the fuck Beau?” YN said.

All she got was laughter and him plopping down onto her bed, obstructing the view of her TV. It’s when YN tried to push him to the side that she realized the moment had passed and the scene moved on to something else. Her nostrils flared and she glared at Beau, reaching out to slap his arm but hitting his breast instead as he tried to dodge.

“Ow,” Beau whined, swatting her back.

YN slapped his hand before he could though and stuck out her tongue. 

“Ow my ass. You know that’s my favorite,” she mumbled.

Beau stuck out his tongue as well, his hand rubbing the assaulted boob. “Yes, that you’ve seen like three times this month alone.” 

“And that matters because?”

“Because you can wait to see it again and we are going out to a party at the tattoo shop and you have to get dressed.”

The expression of annoyance on YN’s face morphed to that of confusion as she stared her roommate down. She reached up pushing his long, curly hair out of the way to press her hand against his forehead. It felt normal, which couldn’t possibly be right.

“We? We are doing what now?” she asked. 

Beau rolled his eyes and rose from the bed. 

“We are going to Yoonie’s shop and enjoying a tattoo party. You haven’t gone out to do anything in almost two months and you can’t use too tired as an excuse. I want you to go. Yoongi wants you to go. And you know it won’t be crazy, so you’re going.”

Naturally, YN had about twelve different arguments for why she shouldn’t go out, but then she saw Beau pout and something in her black soul couldn’t say no. She’d been impervious to his charms once upon a time, but now she was mush. It was ridiculous. 

Also, she wouldn’t put it past him to Facetime Yoongi who’d smile at her one time and make her crack in an instant. Her roommate’s boyfriend was a kindred spirit and made her soft, so saying no to him felt like committing a crime or something.

How she’d attracted people who could weaken her defenses she was unsure. But she guessed they were nice to have around.

Groaning, she threw her head back. “Fine.”

Beau squealed and immediately turned towards YN’s closet, but that was a no go for her. He’d spend forever in there trying to get YN to wear something slightly more over the top then needed. Which would be done for the sole purpose of trying to put her out there to any of the people at the party so he could convince her to go on a date.

Wasn’t happening.

“Nope. I’ll find something on my own. You go get my curl creme and edge control from your bathroom, because I know you stole it,” YN said.

“I didn’t–”

YN fixed him with a glare before he could continue and he stopped talking though there was an eye roll as he walked out of the room.

“Also, I know you took my high waisted shorts too. Don’t think I don’t,” she shouted after him.

Once she heard a series of words cursing her a smile graced her lips. Getting on Beau’s nerves – even a little bit – was always fun. 

With her temporary privacy YN made a beeline to her dresser. Without much thought, she yanked a pair of high waisted gray shorts from a drawer and slipped them on under her shirt.

She’d decided the weekend would be anti–pants.

After that she found a bra from another drawer and slipped it on up underneath before heading to the closet. Obviously, she wasn’t going to go all out but that did not mean that she wouldn’t at least try to be cute. She searched for a bit before finding a lilac, long sleeved, cold–shoulder top. It was a favorite of hers. Tight and flowy in all the right places. She was forever thankful that she’d been home the day Beau cleaned out his closet and had the chance to snap up a few things.

YN slipped off her shirt and pulled on the top before heading out of the room towards her bathroom. She was met part way by Beau with her hair care products in his hands.

“You’re not going to shower?” he asked.

“I showered three hours ago.”

At that Beau shrugged, but then there was this weird smile that graced his lips. It was one that YN was very familiar with and she’d already started shaking her head.

“Can I do your hair?” he asked.

“No.”

“Why not?”

“Because you take too long. We wouldn’t leave for another hour at least because you’d overthink if something is even or if it looks good. And I’m guessing we don’t have that kind of time.”

Beau pursed his lips for a moment, but then shook his head. 

“Exactly. So, give me fifteen minutes to do something with it and put on bare minimum make–up.”

He nodded and retreated from the bathroom. “I’ll text Yoonie and then go down to the car.”

YN gave a thumbs up before she got to work. Her make–up was truly bare minimum with some concealer, mascara, and a touch of gloss. Enough to keep her from looking like she’d worked twelve–hour shifts but not too much that she felt the need to do a full face. Then once that was done, she whipped off her bonnet and took down the twists. She’d planned to leave the twist–out in for a few days, but it needed washing so it could come down sooner.

It took her a total of five minutes to get the hair down, placed how she wanted, and her edges laid. A spritz of oil and some mild teasing of her curls and she was pleased. 

She indeed looked cute enough to be happy with herself.

After grabbing her phone, purse, and backup charger she made quick work of slipping on a random pair of shoes and making her way downstairs to Beau’s car. He was pulled up to the door when she arrived, so the moment she slipped in they were off.

For the first ten minutes of the drive they listened to music and belted the lyrics, but just as they grew closer to the shop Beau turned it down.

“You have to be nice to people,” he said, fixing YN with a look that made her close her mouth as she went to protest. “I know you think you’re not mean, but you’re mean. You can’t be mean. Talk to people before you decide they’re dicks and then you can be however you want. But you’re here to have fun, destress, and socialize. Even if it’s only a little. And no, Yoongi and I don’t count.”

YN sighed, but nodded. But then a thought popped into her head.

“So that means–”

Beau cut her off just as he parked behind the shop. “No. No Jungkook or Jin or any of the boys either. You must branch out to someone else.”

Of course, he was right, so she was just going to go with it. Plus, there was one week where all YN thought about in her off time was that she needed to go out more. However, all her friends happened to be busy that whole week and she couldn’t be bothered to venture out on her own.

“Okay, dad.”

At that Beau glared at her before getting out of the car. YN laughed so hard she barely managed to get her belt off and to the back door before he opened it.

Once they were in the building she could hear the faint sound of music playing and it just happened to be a song she loved. YN followed Beau through the backroom to the hallway that led to all the tattoo rooms and then eventually to the spacious lobby area.

There were people loitering about mingling with each other, but it was not as many as YN originally feared. And honestly fewer people than when Yoongi usually threw get–togethers. So, it was a win for her.

The moment they stepped into view most people’s attention turned to them. Yoongi – who was in the middle of a conversation with Jimin, Namjoon, and someone else YN couldn’t see clearly – smiled their way. He broke from the group with his arms opened and Beau moved quickly towards him, but he was bypassed for YN.

As YN wrapped her arms around Yoongi in a tight hug she smirked at Beau over his shoulder. Beau pouted and glared at them.

“Does he look ready to murder us yet?” Yoongi whispered, amusement clear in his voice.

“Nah, just being a big baby.”

At that Yoongi laughed and pulled away from YN, but that didn’t mean he turned to greet his boyfriend. No, instead he reached up and gently pinch YN’s cheek which earned him a slap of the hand.

“Good to see you’re still eating properly with all that work you’re doing. Those precious cheeks looking plumper than usual, baby sister. So cute,” he cooed.

YN rolled her eyes so hard surely they should’ve gotten stuck. Yoongi always got weird when he didn’t see her for long periods of time because of work. It was cute, but also slightly embarrassing. Like the last time he’d called her little sister in a room full of people YN could count the number of people on two hands who tried to process this Korean man calling some Black woman his little sister.

“Of course, I eat. You constantly leave me food or send delivery to my job. Or have Jin come from all the way on the opposite side of the hospital at mealtimes to bully me into eating at specific times,” YN said.

All Yoongi did was smile and wink at her before turning around to face Beau. Of course, Beau tried to maintain his pout, but all it took was Yoongi smiling and kissing him for that to stop. While YN made fake gagging sounds in the background. 

That earned her another glare from Beau, but again it didn’t last long as he looked between her and Yoongi.

“At this point you may as well find a way to adopt her,” Beau said.

“Oh, don’t worry. Mom already has the paperwork going,” Yoongi said.

It was hard to tell if he was joking though. He’d hinted at that before and since his mother had taken to her the same way he had; it wasn’t impossible that it would be a thought. And if YN was honest, she didn’t mind. His family was amazing and she loved them to pieces. They also reciprocated that love and it felt like she’d belonged somewhere for the first time. Like she had family for the first time in years.

YN shook her head as she tried to get her mind from wandering down that path. It wasn’t great and she didn’t want to ruin her night by thinking about someone who didn’t matter to her. Someone who she didn’t matter to.

“Oh, Hobi’s here. You can finally meet him, Sid. You two always manage to never be in the same place at the same time,” Beau said.

Nodding, YN followed them over to where the boys were standing around. Before she could even speak she was wrapped in hugs. And all of them were so tight that she was unsure if they were trying to break her. Once that was done she stepped a bit away so they didn’t think of clinging to her again.

“Hi to you too,” she mumbled while rubbing one of her sore arms.

Jin laughed as he watched her. “That’s what you get when you go MIA for so long. Even I had trouble finding you and we pretty much worked all the same shifts.”

“Maybe you’d find me if you didn’t spend so much time flirting with all the nurses in my department,” she said.

Naturally Jin didn’t mind being called out in the slightest and merely smirked at her. The dork loved himself a little too much sometimes. Or honestly the ladies loved him a little too much. And men. And non–binary people. Just everyone. Everyone loved him a little too much and as a respectful “fuckboy” he ate it all up.

“Before we’re forced to hear about Jin and the new male nurse in cardiology. YN meet Hoseok. Hoseok, YN,” Yoongi said.

Finally, YN glanced the way of the mystery man from earlier and her eyes widened a fraction. She would’ve been embarrassed if his expression didn’t mirror hers. 

He looked almost exactly like that last – and first – time she saw him months ago, except his hair was longer and a light brown. It looked good on him, like way too good that she was imagining how things would have differed if she’d had all that to pull on.

Of course, while she mildly fantasized the others stared them down and descended into confusion when neither spoke a word.

“Uh, y’all good?” Beau asked cautiously. 

“Do you know each other or something?” Namjoon asked.

Not taking their eyes off each other they both nodded. But Yoongi didn’t find that sufficient and pinched YN, drawing her out of the momentary shock.

“Uh, yeah. We met a few months ago in a club,” she said.

Hoseok nodded. “We slept together.”

That made everyone freeze, mouths and eyes opened wide in shock. But that shock did not last long at all.

Yoongi lost it a little. “Oh goodness, no. No. No. No. You made me listen to you go into detail about that. You basically just gave me a preview of my little sister’s sex life. No.”

Hoseok appeared to be embarrassed by that, but not so much that he tried to escape or hide away. And YN was almost equally disgusted, but not because her sex life had been divulged. She had no qualms with that seeing as she’d done the same thing. But thinking about Yoongi knowing anything that happened that night was just so weird. Her body literally shuddered at the thought.

“My bad,” Hoseok said.

“Yeah, your bad,” Yoongi said.

From there silence remained within the group, but then something shifted in Yoongi and he looked ready to square up with Hoseok.

“Did you sleep with her and kick her out? Hoseok, so help me if you treated her like trash I will hurt you.”

YN quickly moved to put a hand on his shoulder and push him back a bit. 

“Whoa, there. None of that happened. We slept together and he offered to let me stay the night. The next morning I got dressed and we said our goodbyes. He was very nice,” she said. 

It took a moment or two before Yoongi calmed down, but when he did he appeared remorseful for his little outburst. And though YN was a little surprised and knew it was unnecessary some part of her was warmed by having someone willing to back her up.

“Sorry,” Yoongi mumbled.

However, despite Yoongi pulling it together, Beau was looking at Hoseok as if not sure if he was upset with him or not. Which was not good seeing as YN knew of the two Beau was most likely to hurt some feelings on behalf of those he cared about. And it didn’t matter how close he was to the other person, if you fucked up, you fucked up and he was going to tell you about yourself.

“Is this going to make things awkward?” Beau asked.

“It shouldn’t,” Hoseok said.

At the same time YN replied with, “Nope.”

That appeased him enough and YN hoped all of it would stop there, but obviously that couldn’t be the case.

“Go talk,” Yoongi said.

“What? Why?” YN whined.

Yoongi fixed her with a serious expression and she knew immediately that he wasn’t going to budge. “Because I need to be sure it won’t be awkward so you need to go talk about this. Also, I just need a moment away from both of you until the mental image stops.”

“But–” Hoseok started.

“Let’s just do it. He’ll push for forever and then it’ll be bigger than it is. Plus, you did just mentally scar him.”

Sighing, he stood straight up and nodded. “Fair.”

YN stepped out of the way so that he could get by and extended her arm in a flourish. 

“Lead the way.” 

And lead he did. Hoseok took her towards the back and didn’t stop until he entered one of the artist rooms. It was one YN had never been in before so she assumed it was his and was proven correct when she saw some polaroids of him tattooing on the wall next to some sketches.

While she took in the space Hoseok had taken a seat in his rolling stool and watched her. He didn’t rush the conversation, just observed her. And from the way he angled down to her lower half when she finally looked his way, he was also checking her out.

YN smirked at that.

“We fucked, it was good, we did it again in the morning before I left, and there are no hard feelings right?”

That made Hoseok laugh. “As blunt as you were then. You keep that up and I might need another round right now.”

“Another round?”

“Yup.”

“Right here?”

“Yup.”

Then it was YN’s turn to laugh. “You must want Yoon to kill you.”

“I’d be fine with that. At least I got to have some great sex before I die. And isn’t that all anyone could ever ask for?”

And just like that she remembered why she’d even wanted to go home with Hoseok that night. His bright smile, the easy back and forth, the fact that she most definitely wanted to sit on his face and he was more than down for that.

From that point in their conversation, they went to talking about the ideal thing to do before death and then somehow got to talking about some YouTube video Hoseok had seen. It reached the point where he whipped out his phone to show her, standing up so she could see better. Though because of the length standing got annoying fast and despite there being a perfectly good tattoo chair that they could recline next to them, Hoseok sat on his stool and pulled YN onto his lap.

They were so wrapped up in what they were talking about and then watching, that neither of them realized how long they’d been gone. Or how that would look.

Yoongi burst into the room suddenly as if to catch them in the act and neither of them even flinched. And despite them clearly not being up to anything he still glared at Hoseok like he was planning his death. 

“What are you doing?” Yoongi asked.

YN shrugged, turning the phone so he could see. “Watching a thirty–minute video about drama in the YouTube beauty industry.”

For a moment Yoongi’s glare stopped and his brows knitted in confusion as he squinted to see the screen. But as quick as his aggression left it returned.

“On his lap?”

“We got tired of standing,” she said.

At that Yoongi raised a brow and gestured to the tattoo chair as if the answer were obvious, and it was but it didn’t really matter.

YN groaned. “It’s not a big deal.” 

“You’re sitting on his lap!”

“Just be happy it’s all I’m sitting on,” she mumbled.

The gasp that left Yoongi afterwards made her aware that she hadn’t said it low enough, and before she could say anything else he stormed out of the room murmuring about needing bleach.

“Wait, Yoon. I’m sorry,” she shouted as she got up and went after him. Though she was laughing so it didn’t make it any better.

From there she was forced to chase Yoongi around the party until he let her hug him and promised not to murder Hoseok. Of course, it took some of Beau’s help for the second thing because any time Hoseok made a case for himself you could tell Yoongi was thinking about it even more.

After that, she moved about talking to the people she knew, but somehow always ended up in some corner talking with Hoseok about anything and everything. It was nice and she didn’t hate being forced out of her home as much. Of course, she was still tired so a good time and a nice conversation didn’t remove the longing fully.

As things winded down and people started to leave the core group – the people who worked there and close friends – all huddled near the waiting area. They all joked around and dragged each other for everything under the sun. Most things weren’t off limits so it led to a lot of dodging random punches to the arms if anyone felt any kind of way. But no one ever crossed a line.

It remained that way until even they got tired and were ready to head home. YN got up from her seat to use the bathroom and Beau hopped up with her.

“I’ll come with you,” he said.

YN paused and turned to look at him with a raised brow.

“Why?”

“Because.”

Arguing was always a choice, but it was also a waste of time and she really had to pee. So, without a word YN turned and headed to the bathroom with Beau hot on her heels. Once inside she was grateful it was two stalls so she had some distance between them, but it wasn’t much since Beau felt the need to lean against the closed stall door as he talked to her.

“So, what are the odds you sleep with Hobi again?” he asked.

YN rolled her eyes. Of course, that’s what he wanted. 

“Moderate to high seeing as I’ll probably see him more often now that he’s not guesting at shops all the time and we’ll be in each other’s presence a lot more. Plus, he is single and I have no objections to sleeping with him if he’s down.”

“Wait. Did you just give in? That quickly? Oh, come on you usually make me work for it or deny, deny, deny until I leave you alone.”

There was the sound of a toilet flush before YN answered.

“Maybe it’s because you’re a nosy Nancy and I know you won’t let this go. Plus, what is the point of lying to you when I’m sure everyone noticed me checking him out more than once in the past few hours,” she said.

With a slightly harder push she indicated her want to exit the stall and Beau moved to let her out. She tried to avoid his gaze, but she saw him in the mirror as she went to wash her hands. 

Beau stared at her with eyes wide, but slowly a smirk graced his lips. Which was all YN needed to see to know he was not done with his questions despite getting an answer from her so easily.

“So, is this a fucking thing or could it be a dating thing? Do I finally get to go on double dates with you again? We haven’t had those since you and that doctor Jin works with broke up.”

“I don’t know. I’m not even saying we’re going to have sex again; I’m saying I’m not opposed. Whatever happens, happens,” she said, but just as she finished rinsing she continued, “And for the love of Zeus please do not mention that man ever again. He’s been trying to enact some sort of at work booty call situation and has Jin passing me notes. I would rather do anything else but remember dating him.”

At that Beau laughed, well more like he cackled. He found amusement in hearing about how that man just didn’t know how to take a hint. Of course, YN’s “ex” had never gone as far as to make her uncomfortable or cross a line, but he was so damn annoying and she was beyond over it.

“Okay, okay. I’ll let it go. And I’ll never bring up Dr. Mistakes–Anal–Beads–As–Candy.”

Before YN could even turn around Beau ran away, sprinting out of the bathroom at a speed he reserved for when he knew his ass was going to be kicked. And YN did plan to kick it but decided not to once she’d gotten out of the bathroom. At least not do it right then, she’d get her revenge another time. An unexpected time. 

So, while Beau ran to hide YN took her sweet time making it back out front. When she appeared Beau was hiding behind Joon and she didn’t even bat an eyelash or glance his way. She wanted to build the fear. 

With their return everyone started to say their goodbyes and gave out an unnecessary amount of hugs. Yoongi had an early morning work thing so he was going back to his apartment, which meant he and Beau being soft on a vomit inducing level for a few minutes. It was a win for YN because she didn’t have to hear them or happen on their naked forms at some point, but as she was forced to see them snuggle into each other and cooing she kind of wished he was coming back with them. Or that Beau was going with him.

Thankfully, Hoseok appeared in front of her and his presence gave her something else to focus on, even if she could still hear them. Though even that went out the window the moment he leaned down to whisper in her ear. 

“I would be more than okay with sleeping with you again. Like very much so down for that to the point that you could ask me right now,” he said.

YN scoffed at that, knowing he must’ve heard Beau in the bathroom. Which wasn’t hard seeing as he’d asked the questions loudly despite them being in the same space.

“Eavesdropping, are we?” YN asked. 

Hoseok laughed and shrugged. “Just in the right place at the right time. And I’m very glad I was.”

“Ah, okay. Well, I’ll make sure to remember your answer to this thing you didn’t eavesdrop on,” she said.

He pulled away, but only enough to meet her eyes. “You should. You should even give me your number so we can maybe make it a thing.”

Though part of her wanted to laugh, something about the eye contact and smooth words made her just hand over her unlocked phone. Which made Hoseok smile wider than she’d seen, something that she thought would be impossible.

Once he put the number in and called himself he handed it back. YN thought he’d give her space after that, but he just leaned in again. That time he was close enough that she felt his breath on her neck and it sent a tingle down her spine.

“Oh, and I’m down for the dating thing too. So, text me when you have the time to let me take you out,” he whispered.

That time a tingle coursed through her for a different reason, and in a different place. 

YN planned to take him up on those offers, but of course work happened. 

Things at the hospital weren’t even hectic, but for some reason she worked ten times more than she had for months. She was in a constant state of movement, to the point where she ate while walking the halls to do things and only ever sat in the car ride home and when she went to bed. Her body wasn’t happy at all, but it knew there was no stopping. 

Or it at least knew that it would get a short break in between and kept going until that time came.

Her work week was at its end on a Tuesday night. It would be almost two weeks off for her since she’d taken on such a workload that she was mandated a longer off time and her vacation time coincided with that. It was a miracle. Or that’s what it felt like with how shitty her day had been.

It was non–stop running around because an accident occurred and she was in and out of surgeries. Nothing she hadn’t experienced before, but on one operating table there was a pregnant woman who’d been on her way in because of labor. In the end she was fine but trying to stop the bleeding and safely deliver the baby was a draining task. 

After that YN was allowed time to shower and eat, because ten hours in surgery was no joke. 

And because of the strenuous work she’d been moved to doing only charts for her last few hours. There weren’t a lot so she trudged along slowly to get them done. She finished her last one about fifteen minutes before her shift was over.

Of course, she usually hid until time was up but something possessed her to go to the nurses’ station to check on things. However, when she arrived at the station she was surprised to see who was standing there.

Jin was flirting with the head nurse as usual, though the woman merely ignored him. It wasn’t like he was one hundred percent serious and she was older and married. Her kids were Jin’s age. So, the young doctor with his smooth words didn’t faze her. But the true surprise was that Hoseok was leaning against the counter next to him talking with a male nurse.

None of them paid her any attention until she got closer and cleared her throat. 

With her presence clear Hoseok turned to her and she watched as his smile grew and though she returned it confusion bloomed.

Naturally, Jin didn’t let her curiosity last too long.

“Looks like Hobi was right on time. Though I’m glad you showed up instead of making me search your hiding spots,” he said.

“Right on time for what?” she asked.

“Oh, he got tired of the conflicting schedules so he demanded to know when you would be free so he could ta–”

Hoseok cut him off, using his hand to cover Jin’s.

“What he’s trying to say is that I wanted to go out with you soon and I thought this was the easiest way. Though it might seem a little creepy, but I’d hope you could look past that since you did joke about the only way this would work is if I were spontaneous. Plus, you said you’re off for a while after today,” Hoseok said.

Though he appeared confident in his words she could see some uncertainty in his eyes. He probably worried he’d crossed a line. And though usually she’d be put off by that, he wasn’t wrong she had said it. Plus, she’d been serious and joking. With the way life was there was always a high chance she’d keep forgetting or having something else to do. Or he’d be busy with work himself.

But got damn was she tired and in no way prepared to go out with anyone. That must have been clear in her expression though, because Hoseok was already talking.

“I know, you’re ending a week of intense shifts. And Jin told me this one was not great by any means. We’re not going out, going out. I had something planned for us to stay in. It could be your place or mine. Nothing crazy or that requires energy or paying much attention. Promise.”

YN pursed her lips for a moment, but she didn’t hate the idea. She was tired, exhausted was probably the better term, but being in the company of someone else in a relaxing environment sounded good.

“That’s fine,” she said.

In an instant she watched all worry leave his face and his smile brighten even more. That time she had no reservations about returning it.

“Let me finish up and go get my stuff and I can meet you at the main entrance?”

“Yeah. I’ll be out front.”

“Okay.”

“Okay.”

They stood there for a moment staring at each other until Jin got fed up and lightly shoved YN in the opposite direction. After glaring at him she finally made her away around the nurses’ station to talk for a moment with the doctor taking over. It was a few minutes before she headed to the locker rooms and switched from her scrubs to a pair of joggers and a too big hoodie she’d stolen from Yoongi some time ago.

After a quick bye to her people and Jin – who had a few hours more of his shift – she headed to the main entrance. Hoseok wasn’t right in front because that was illegal, so she had to jog a little to get to his car. He leaned over to push the door open for her and she slid in, dropping her small backpack on the floor in front of her.

Once she’d gotten her seatbelt on she expected him to start driving, but after several seconds of nothing she turned to look at him. He wore an amused expression as he watched her.

“What?” she asked.

“You haven’t told me where you would prefer.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah, oh.”

He chuckled at her obvious forgetfulness.

“It’s wherever you want, love,” he said.

“Uh…” 

YN pulled her lower lip between her teeth and nibbled on it while she weighed her choices. At home she’d get comfortable instantly and have everything that she needed at her fingertips. But at the same time she didn’t want to deal with Yoongi being weird and overprotective and she knew he’d be there that night. But Hoseok’s meant spending a night in a bed she was only mildly familiar with, which would end in her waking up more disoriented than usual after a shift like the one she had.

After a minute or so of debate, her sanity won out.

“Yours.”

“Okay then, it shouldn’t ta–”

“But I need to stop by my apartment to get some things–”

They both spoke at the same time and paused when they heard the other. There was silence for a few seconds and then laughter. YN motioned for Hoseok to continue.

“I was saying that it shouldn’t take long. I don’t live far from here. And to answer what you were saying, Beau summoned me to your apartment and gave me that,” he said while pointing to the back seat.

There sat one of YN’s weekend trip bags and immediately she rolled her eyes. Of course, Beau somehow foresaw that she’d chose to go to Hoseok’s or at least he hoped enough to raid her room for things she’d need. 

Sometimes she questioned how close they were when she found herself unbothered by him going into her room to pick clothes for her. But alas what was done was done.

“Well, I guess straight to yours it is.”

Hoseok nodded and they were off. He didn’t try to make conversation and for that YN was glad. Despite the time to decompress at work with her charting it was never good enough because she was still in the environment. On the way home was a good time for her to process and move on with her day. It helped keep the bad things from lingering if she got them out of the way. It also lowered her emotional sensitivity. Sometimes the smallest thing could set her off after a hard day if she didn’t sit with it for a moment.

By the time she finished they were in the parking garage of his building and had been for several minutes. She only realized when her brain registered that she hadn’t felt the vibrations of the car for some time. Free from her haze she turned to look at Hoseok in confusion. 

He smiled. “You were deep in thought, so I wanted to let you finish whatever it was. Not like we’re in a rush anyway.”

At that YN could feel her cheeks heat a little, though not enough that a blush would be clear. She murmured a soft thank you and they got out of the car.

Though she’d been able to grab her backpack from the floor without a problem, Hoseok snatched up her other bag and tossed it over his shoulder. And from the look on his face when she’d reached for it there hadn’t been any use in trying to take it from him. So, she followed him as he led her through the garage and into the building. Once inside he slowed and when they were next to each other his hand went to her lower back, guiding her to the elevators.

Though she’d been a bit drunk the last time she’d come to his apartment she could still remember the way up. Her brain hit her with a barrage of images at every step and once inside the elevator it played out the whole scene of them practically humping each other as they made out.

Hoseok seemed to remember as well because he laughed and then looked at her with a smirk on his lips. She rolled her eyes and nudged him with her elbow, but of course she wasn’t actually bothered at all.

“Don’t think it’s happening again,” she said.

“Don’t think what’s happening again?” he asked, faux innocence coloring his voice.

Yet another eye roll and laughter from him before the doors opened on his floor and he guided her out. The apartment was the last one in the hallway which meant she had to deal with his teasing the entire way there. Once he input the code she pushed the door open to get away from him and his poking.

It was exactly how her fuzzy and then morning brain remembered. Organized with a few things thrown here and there, but by no means messy. There was also a strong smell of what could have been lavender, but YN couldn’t tell.

“You can set your stuff down in the bedroom. And shower if you want. I know you’ve had a long day, so it could help,” he said as he finally handed over her bag.

For a moment YN thought to turn him down because she’d showered, but then she realized how icky she felt. Showers at work weren’t always the best for feeling truly clean no matter how long you stayed in there or how hard you scrubbed.

“I think I’ll take you up on that,” she said.

Nodding, Hoseok led her to his bedroom and then to the ensuite. She set her backpack down in a corner of the room and brought the weekend bag with her. Once she entered the bathroom Hoseok was turning on the shower and then pulling out a towel, rag, and pointed out the body wash for her.

“That should be it,” he said, but paused glancing at her. “Do you need something for your hair?”

YN smiled at the consideration but shook her head. 

“I don’t care a whole lot if the braids get wet and I’m sure Beau packed something for me. But thank you.”

Moving forward she pressed a kiss to his cheek, which made him freeze. When she pulled away he’d collected himself and was smiling at her. He stared for a moment before excusing himself so that she could get her shower in. Telling her to call out for him if she needed anything.

Since she’d showered a few hours before it wasn’t a long one. Beau had packed a shower cap and her bonnet in the bag, along with some things that she most definitely didn’t need since she had no plans to have sex with Hoseok. And even if she did there was no need for the vibrator he put in there. But ignoring that she undressed and threw on the shower cap, jumping into the shower so she could get it done. She stood under the hot water for a while and it helped calm her further, but since she didn’t want to take a century in there she cut it shorter than her usual. 

It took maybe ten minutes or less for her to get herself clean in a way that actually felt like it and then she was done. She dried off in the shower before stepping out. Quickly, she threw on her undergarments – thank goodness Beau packed a sports bra – and then a pair of pajama shorts, plus a too large t–shirt that she’d stolen from Beau who’d stolen it from Yoongi. 

Once done she redid the bun her box braids were in and headed out with all her stuff. The moment she stepped foot into the bedroom she was met with a shirtless Hoseok in low hanging joggers. 

It took everything in her not to stare at the tattoos like she’d done the first time they met. Tipsy her had the man unbuttoning his shirt in the bar so she could get a better look. How they didn’t get kicked out, she was unsure.

“Done already?” he asked, glancing up from his phone.

“Yeah. I took one at work, I just didn’t feel clean enough,” she said.

He nodded though she saw a look flash in his eyes for a second and then disappear as quick as it came. She assumed it was worry or pity, something she was used to when she said things like that. People tended to think she was trying to wash away something that wasn’t physically there and they wouldn’t be completely wrong in that assumption.

YN placed her bag near the backpack and then turned back to Hoseok with a raised brow. 

“So, what are we doing?” she asked.

Hoseok pursed his lips as if in deep thought, but in a second it was replaced with yet another smile. “I was thinking of watching The Old Guard and finishing that season of Kakegurui. We don’t have to move onto season two, but I need to get to the end before I lose it.”

They’d been watching that anime together via Facetime for a few weeks and were maybe four or five episodes out from finishing. And YN wanted to get that done as much as he did. But she also had been upset for weeks about not getting to watch Old Guard. Like upset enough that she accused Beau of betrayal when he watched it without her and Yoongi had to play mediator. Though she was upset with him too, despite his somewhat convincing lie about falling asleep halfway through it.

But regardless of that she couldn’t help the happy feeling that filled her for him remembering that and for thinking it was something she’d enjoy. He was very right and honestly, it was what she needed to fully immerse herself into the relaxation of a break.

“That sounds great,” she said, smiling way too hard.

Without a word Hoseok reached out for her hand and she let him take it. Their fingers laced together as they walked out into the living room. Out there the TV was set up and the couch had a few blankets as well as some fluffy looking pillows. And since it was one of the larger ones that were in an L–shape she knew she’d fit comfortably on it no matter which way she laid.

She was led all the way to the couch and Hoseok practically ripped her arm off pulling her down with him. YN gasped and struggled to right herself as she was practically swallowed by the blankets. It took several seconds to get comfortable, but before she could truly settle into that Hoseok pulled her closer so that she was practically on top of him.

When he stopped moving her around she slapped his arm. 

“Excuse me, sir. You’re getting mighty comfortable are you not?”

Hoseok snorted. “I’ve slept with you and despite only seeing each other a handful of times over several weeks I’ve made it very clear I’m into you. And you fell asleep during that one group movie night using my thigh as a pillow. So not a word about being comfortable, ma’am.” 

YN scoffed at that but didn’t say anything. She had a very vivid memory of waking up the next morning still pressed against his thigh. If everyone hadn’t been sprawled out around them, she would’ve been much more embarrassed than she had been. Which wasn’t that much since the man's thighs made a nice, firm pillow.

“Fine,” she mumbled.

“That’s what I thought. Now what are you craving for dinner?” he asked, pulling out his phone and adjusting it for both to see.

Before she opened her mouth to ask what the options were, he already had a folder where he kept all his takeout apps open. She perused the page until something caught her eye and then she tapped the little app for a pizza place she liked.

“I thought you avoided greasy food after a shift?” he asked.

YN tilted her head back and pouted at him. Of course he was right, but she wasn’t in the mood for something light and healthy. She’d deal with the consequences later.

“Are you going to deny me what I want?” she asked, her voice gentle.

Hoseok’s expression softened as he reached over to boop her nose. But then he stuck his tongue out at her.

“You know I’m not, so stop pouting. And I don’t want to hear not one complaint when you feel like shit in the morning,” he mumbled the last part.

“I will complain as I damn well please!” YN shouted in a burst of energy.

All Hoseok did was roll his eyes and shove the phone closer to her face so she could put toppings on her pizza and order whatever else she wanted. She didn’t get much else. Besides the pizza she got a large coke that she made clear wouldn’t be shared and fries because why the hell not. 

Fries were never a bad choice. Even when she felt like crap the morning after.

With food ordered, Hoseok wrangled her into another position and pressed play on Netflix. She planned to argue but she felt so comfortable and her body physically relaxed, so there was no urge to call him out. Besides, he knew what she was okay with and she knew that if she was actually uncomfortable, he’d accept being called out. They wouldn’t have survived that night after sex if they hadn’t been clear on what was and wasn’t okay.

YN got so caught up in watching and being comfortable that time passed quickly and before she knew it they were halfway through the second episode and his doorbell was ringing. She groaned and fussed about having to move but got up without much persuasion. 

Hunger was still present despite the need for comfort more than anything.

Hoseok went and came back in minutes. By then YN paused the show and moved down to the floor so she sat in front of the coffee table. He laid out all the food, placing her box of pizza in front of her, along with everything else. 

The urge to eat at the smell of the food was strong, but she waited until he returned from the kitchen with glasses and got comfortable next to her. She opened her box carefully and smiled as she looked at the pepperoni, bacon, jalapeno pizza with heart eyes. No time was wasted grabbing a slice and taking a bite. 

By some miracle she didn’t moan out loud afterwards.

It had been so long since she’d had that pizza or any pizza at all. She’d been busy with work and thus that meant avoiding greasy things for the most part. Even when someone had brought it into the breakroom she had opted to grab a poptart before she ran off somewhere. She didn’t realize that she actually missed it.

The way she ate it made her feel almost like a pig, but she’d only consumed three or so slices in the time it took the episode to finish and the next to reach its halfway point. And Hoseok hadn’t made any sort of comment, not that he would judge her about how she inhaled her food.

Though she had spent that time focused on the TV and her food, not even sparing a glance at Hoseok. Carefully she turned her head to see him equally as focused as she was, and his pizza almost gone. Her eyes went wide as she looked from his to hers and back again. She’d seen him eat before, but it still shocked her how fast he could consume food. 

Did he even chew?

After about forty–five seconds of her watching him Hoseok turned his head to look her way. He swallowed the crust he’d shoved into his mouth and raised a brow.

“Yes?” he asked.

“I don’t think you even chewed that.”

He merely shrugged and took a sip of his drink.

“I did chew,” he mumbled after.

“For what? Two seconds?” she asked incredulously.

That made him laugh; one of those throw your head back kind. It lasted for several seconds and at some point YN shook her head and moved her attention back to the TV. Hoseok tried to get her attention after but she shrugged him off, even as he poked her side repeatedly and whined in her ear about wanting attention.

As minutes went by it was a little hard to ignore him, but as the last episode queued up she closed her pizza box – despite having half left – and moved on to her fries. Which got him to stop since she was eating and poking a stomach while someone ate was cause for not a great time. 

But sadly, she barely ate a third of them before she felt the tightening of her stomach and knew it was best to stop. It wasn’t unbearable and she didn’t want to make it that way.

Once she pushed it away from her Hoseok took that as the cue to start cleaning things up and preparing them to be put away. After downing some of her coke in hopes of a burp to make her feel not bloated she went to help, but her hands were smacked away. That didn’t deter her, but after the fourth smack she glared at Hoseok.

“Why are you stopping me?” 

Hoseok paused in his cleaning, turning to her to smirk and wink.

“Because. Now go get comfortable. We’re going back to the couch and staying there for the rest of the night.”

YN pursed her lips for a moment before huffing and leaning back against the couch. 

“Fine. So bossy,” she mumbled, though not low enough.

Again, Hoseok paused and turned to her, but his expression was different. Amusement and a glint of mischief lurked in his eyes. The kind of mischief that sent a tingle down her spine and elsewhere.

“If you truly want bossy, we can always go back to you calling me Daddy, darling. I have no problem changing around this night since you want to misbehave,” he said. 

Naturally, YN stared him down unbothered by his words. Of course, they did something to arouse her, but she was also a brat and wouldn’t back down from such a small amount of intimidation. Especially when she wasn’t submersed in that mindset before the topic was brought up.

They stayed that way for a while. Just staring and waiting for the other to back down, however neither of them did. What stopped them was a yawn that YN tried to keep at bay breaking to the surface. 

His entire demeanor shifted despite the fact that YN saw he was clearly trying to keep his composure. Once he got his expression under control he pointed towards the couch and took everything to the kitchen.

Part of YN wanted to remain where she was, but she also didn’t want to start something she couldn’t finish. And that yawn reminded her of how tired she was – at least physically. She could fight sleep for a while, but her body felt a little sore and heavy. There was no point in keeping the little game going, so she dragged herself up from the floor and headed off to the bathroom to pee real quick. When she returned Hoseok wasn’t back yet, so she crawled onto the couch and positioned herself on her side against the corner of it.

A few minutes passed before he returned and when he did she was laying there scrolling through her twitter feed. She didn’t even notice his presence until he fell onto the couch, putting almost all his body weight on her in the process.

It took a minute or two to get him off, and when he finally freed her he snatched her phone to place on the other side of him. She was ready to take it back, but like the first time they got on the couch he pulled her into his arms to cuddle and placed half her body on top of his.

“So, we have ten minutes left on this last episode and then Old Guard?” he asked.

YN nodded, not finding any reason to disagree with what he said. Nothing in her no longer wanted to go along with the plan, if anything she was more eager now that she was calmer and had food in her system.

“Okay,” he said.

With that he started the episode up again and YN focused on the screen. It wasn’t like anything too exciting was happening, but either way she didn’t want to miss it. 

Once the ten minutes was up they stared at each other for a little while and said nothing. After a while they both shrugged and Hoseok put on Old Guard. YN hyper focused on it, her excitement bubbling in her stomach. However, she found it hard to focus no matter how much she was enjoying it. Her mind kept drifting back to the last episode – or well, the whole season. She couldn’t wrap her mind around what it was, but she didn’t want to spend the whole time trying to figure it out.

She was ready to let it go until Hoseok sighed.

Tilting her head a little she looked up at him and was met with furrowed brows and a perplexed expression.

“Something wrong?” she asked. 

Hoseok seemed startled by her sudden question because his eyes went wide for a second before he pulled it together.

“No. Everything’s fine,” he said.

That was obviously false and YN planned to push him on it, but then he sighed again.

“Okay, maybe it’s not fine. Nothing is wrong, at least nothing bad. But is it bad that I don’t know how to feel about the show and the ending?”

YN shook her head, pleased to see he felt the same way. 

“Oh, my goodness no. I haven’t been able to focus because I couldn’t figure out if I loved it or thought it was meh or anything. Like I know it wasn’t bad, but what do I feel? What does that ending make me feel?”

His body visibly relaxed.

“Oh, thank goodness it wasn’t just me.”

And just like that their movie was forgotten and they discussed the anime in depth. All their thoughts on scenes and the questions they had while watching and still had after finishing it. They got so wrapped up in it that by the time they finished it was really late and they decided to try and watch the movie the next day.

That night they fell asleep wrapped up in each other, closer than they’d been on the couch. Which felt impossible. 

“That’s not allowed! The rules don’t allow you to stack cards. No. No!” Jimin yelled, trying to force Yoongi’s cards back into his hands.

Yoongi smirked and simply slapped them back on top of the pile.

“Yes, you can. Now draw sixteen, bitch!”

Jimin squirmed where he sat on the floor and whined some more.

“It is not. You can’t do that,” Jimin said.

Not uttering a word, Yoongi simply pointed towards YN who was laughing at Jimin’s crybaby antics to the point that tears were falling. Every time she tried to pull it together she looked at his face and saw how upset he was and started laughing again. It took about four attempts to get it together over a minute before she could speak.

“Thems the rules,” she said.

Of course, that didn’t please Jimin at all, but when he looked around for back up no one offered their support. After rolling his eyes so hard they should’ve gotten stuck, he grabbed his sixteen cards from the stack. And he called Yoongi every word in the book while doing it. 

From there the game progressed with more yelling about what wasn’t allowed and Beau and YN locked in an intense battle for who would get Uno first. They kept yelling at each other and glaring whenever one of them did something to screw over the other. When they got down to their last card it seemed like one of them would lunge at the other at any given moment.

As the end drew near, YN was focused on the cards being placed down and stopping Taehyung from leaning over to peek at her hand. She had one blue and one red draw two that she needed to throw down, she just needed the right colors. 

And the universe did not let her down. 

Taehyung dropped a blue card as he stacked it with a yellow and immediately she began to laugh. One of those kinda creepy ones that you would expect from a villain. Turning her head she stared at Beau – who was after her – while she placed the cards down.

“Uno. Uno out, bitch! And draw four,” she shouted.

Though she wanted to savor that moment of staring at Beau’s enraged face she knew that she was in danger. YN’s next move was to roll away from the group, which was perfect timing since Beau already swung to punch her in the arm. She didn’t stop until her body bumped into the couch and someone’s legs, which was far enough away to get Beau to let her be, though the glare he fixed her with could’ve killed her.

All YN could do was smile, wink, and then finger gun at him. Which made him throw an empty can of beer at her, but his aim was shit so it sailed past YN and hit the small end table next to the couch instead.

The animosity fizzled after that though because the round was not over and of course if Beau couldn’t be first he needed to be second. Which meant destroying everyone else with all the stacks, reverses, color changes he had on hand. It was fun to watch them all groan and curse as he just laid out the cards each turn.

YN watched them intently but after a few moments the legs she’d rolled into lightly kicked her. She turned her head to look up at an amused but pouting Hoseok.

“Hi there,” he said.

“Hi.”

“Would you prefer to come up here? It’s more comfortable.”

For a moment YN pursed her lips as if actually thinking it over like it was some major decision, but Hoseok scoffed and kicked her again.

“Fine, fine. If you insist,” she said as she crawled up onto the couch. 

She sat so that her legs were pulled under her and they had a few inches between them, but Hoseok didn’t approve. He wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her closer so that her leg touched his thigh and then he released her, but kept the arm wrapped loosely around her. 

“You have to stop manhandling me, dude. At least take me on a date first,” she teased.

Hoseok scoffed. “We’ve had like four dates. What do you mean? And did you just dude me?”

YN rolled her eyes. “We’ve hung out four times in an apartment that was either yours or mine. And two of those times we slept the entire time. And yes, I did. What about it?”

“You fell asleep first one of those times,” Hoseok said incredulously, but he didn’t stop there. “And don’t act like you didn’t call those dates and consider them valid since you were so busy. Also, how dare you dude me? I thought I was better than dude?” 

“Okay, fine you’re right. But you have not taken me out on a date that involves leaving the house. Also, why are you better then dude? Is there something else I should be calling you?” she asked.

There was silence for a few moments as Hoseok looked at her, eyes wide and mouth agape. He seemed appalled, but YN didn’t know which thing was the problem. With how dramatic he could be anything she said could have “offended” him.

After she poked him in the side a few times he broke his silence.

“Yes, actually. I am not a dude, I am a… I am your… I am…”

Not wanting to interfere, YN watched as he struggled to find the right word for whatever it was he was trying to say. It was amusing to watch how flustered he got as more time went by. At some point he started blushing from it, his ears and neck turning red. It was interesting to see his neck tattooed colored in because of how flustered he was.

And though patient YN decided after two minutes of stuttering and avoiding eye contact that she needed to move things along.

She leaned towards his ear and whispered. “You’re my what, Hobi? My friend? My lover? My boyfriend? My daddy? What is it?”

The way she spoke was so soft and almost innocent, which was intentional. YN loved messing with people in general, so Hoseok was in no way immune to her trying to rile him up. Not even a little bit.

However, while it usually took more to get a reaction out of him he was already reacting before she finished the word daddy. His fingers dug into her side and then suddenly he was tickling her. It was just one hand at first, but then his other joined in and YN started violently squirming in an attempt to get away. 

“Stop,” she squealed.

That obviously didn’t help her at all, if anything Hoseok became more brutal with his tickling. At some point he eased up, but it was only as he adjusted himself to be over her since she’d fallen to the side upon his first attack and her body was sprawled across most of the couch. 

It took who knows how long for him to stop tickling her and by then she was breathing so heavily that it was all she could hear. Though it surely didn’t stop what he whispered in her ear from breaking through.

“You don’t want to test your daddy right now. You will stop teasing me.”

The deepness of his voice excited her and part of her brain wanted her to consider where she was, but it was overshadowed by the part that was wrapped up in him or maybe that part of her simply didn’t care in that moment.

Slowly, she tilted her head back so she could look into his eyes. Hoseok’s soft expression was no more and in its place was a locked jaw and intense eyes. YN could feel her heart quicken and without thought her hands began moving on their own accord, one tangling in his hair.

She felt so drawn into him and bit her lower lip as she felt like her body was on fire. Desire came to the forefront and she could feel the arousal as it built up inside her. And with the way Hoseok’s lips turned up into a smirk it was clear he could tell how she felt; which only made her want it more. Want him more.

But again, they weren’t considering where they were.

One second Hoseok’s head was dipping down and the next it was whipping up, his lips forming a frown and his eyes fixated on something off the couch. Or someone.

“Ow. Why are you throwing things?” Hoseok said. 

Confused, YN glanced around until she noticed an empty beer can on the floor in front of the couch. And after seeing that she followed Hoseok’s gaze to Yoongi who stood a few feet away clearly unamused.

“Maybe because I don’t want you two going at it on my couch. Or maybe because I don’t want to see you going at it at all. You are not fucking in my presence,” Yoongi said.

YN rolled her eyes. 

“No one is fucking or going to fuck in your presence,” she groaned.

“Sure fucking looked like you were about to. And I would love for it to stop looking like that,” Yoongi retorted.

At that Hoseok moved and so did YN, choosing to sit up as she stared down the man she considered her older brother.

“Do I need to mention the love seat incident?” she asked.

At that him and Beau froze. They both averted their gaze, but YN could still see the blush work its way onto their faces.

“That wasn’t… definitely not the same,” Yoongi said.

“Ah yeah, very different. Worse actually. Because who the fuck has sex in a shared living space, let alone perio–”

“Nope. Shut it. Don’t you dare finish that sentence. We promised to never speak of it again,” Beau shouted, while looking like he was going to die of embarrassment.

“That’s what I thought,” YN said.

After that it was a bit awkward. Even YN – who’d been so confident seconds before – felt it. That and an intense heat, as if she weren’t in an air–conditioned space. 

She needed to get out of there, but not because of the awkwardness. Well, mostly not because of it.

“I feel hot enough to pass out. I’m going for a walk,” she said as she stood up.

“It’s late I’ll–” Yoongi and Hoseok started at the same time.

They stared at each other after, but it didn’t last long as Yoongi gestured for Hoseok.

“Uh, I’ll go with you,” Hoseok said.

Shrugging, YN grabbed her phone from the coffee table and headed towards the door. There she slipped on her shoes and grabbed one of the lighter jackets hanging on the coat rack. Nobody would be leaving so it didn’t matter whose she took.

Hoseok was right behind her and she waited for him to be ready before heading out. 

“Don’t have sex in public either,” Namjoon yelled after them.

YN didn’t miss a beat and shouted back. “Not everyone is like you and gets almost arrested for public indecency in the alley behind a cupcake shop. In broad daylight might I add.”

That left everyone laughing, even Hoseok. And without another word they were out of the apartment and in the elevator. 

They remained silent as they headed down and even once they were out of the building and on the street. 

Yoongi’s apartment wasn’t in the middle of the city, but it was near a popular area. Which meant that despite the lateness they had to maneuver around groups of people who walked or loitered about. Thankfully as they got a block or so away the number of people lessened. It didn’t mean they were completely alone, but they weren’t running into people every few seconds.

It was three blocks in when the silence between them was broken.

“Where are we going? If you wanted to walk we could’ve gone to the park, which is in the opposite direction,” Hoseok said. 

YN shook her head.

“I didn’t say I was only going on a walk. I do plan to go to the park, but there’s something else I want first. Though if all this walking isn’t what you want to do I could continue alone. I’ve done it a million times later than it is now.”

Out of the corner of her eye she saw Hoseok shake his head and huff.

“Nope. I said I’d come with you, so I’m following your lead. You can’t get rid of me that easily.”

And to emphasize that point he reached over and grabbed her hand, lacing their fingers together. His grip was firm, but gentle enough that she didn’t feel the need to readjust or pull her hand away.

From there it didn’t take long for them to reach their destination, which was an ice cream shop. When Yoongi first moved apartments they’d all gone on a walk to get a look at the neighborhood and got lost along the way. It was dark out and most things were closed by the time they got back on track and they’d stumbled upon the place to see it still open. That’s when they learned that they could get ice cream until four in the morning no matter the day of the week.

It quickly became a favorite location of YN’s; she’d even come after work some days. Of course, it was out of the way in relation to her apartment, but that didn’t matter. Sometimes she just needed to sit in a nearly empty ice cream parlor and devour four scoops of ice cream covered in whipped cream to get through the day.

Hoseok appeared a little perplex as she turned, pushing the door to the place open but he didn’t utter a word. He simply watched her as she approached the counter with a bright smile on her face. 

“Minho!” she called out.

One of the workers behind the counter whipped around in surprise, but the moment his eyes landed on her he smiled. He held up a finger and then turned back towards what he was doing.

“What flavors are you thinking?” YN asked.

Hoseok didn’t respond right away, which made her turn her head to glance at him. However, instead of looking at her he was up close to the window taking in the ice cream. His eyes were wide as he perused the options. It was cute to see him slowly become more excited as he assessed everything.

She’d gotten so caught up in watching him that she didn’t notice Minho walked up until he cleared his throat. YN looked up to look at him and was met with him glancing between her to Hoseok and doing that stupid eye brow wiggle thing. It made her roll her eyes hard. 

“I thought you stopped working this shift? You didn’t take the test yet right?” she asked him.

Minho’s face went blank for a moment that made her worry, but then a smirk made its way onto his lips. He then proceeded to do that dorky little shoulder dance he only brought out when there was something to celebrate. 

YN was immediately filled with joy.

“You did? You passed? Oh my goodness. Fuck yes!” she squealed. 

That seemed to grab Hoseok’s attention as she noticed him looking at them a little confused. The urge to explain was there, but she was more so caught up in voicing her excitement for Minho.

“I told you you could do it. You were agonizing for nothing. That test is stressful enough without you adding your own overthinking stress,” she said, reaching over to high five him.

Minho rolled his eyes at that. “I know, I know. I psyched myself out. Now it’s done and the new issue is applying for schools. My score was great, but I’m still up against so many people.”

“And you will get into so many places you apply. You’re applying to us right?” she asked.

At first she thought he was going to tell her no, which would result in her being a little pissy with him, but not much seeing as it was his future.

“Of course, I am. You and Jin would kill me if I didn’t and with all the help you’ve both been for getting through undergrad there is no way I would pass up the chance for a residency there. Plus that internship I did means I qualify for more scholarships there. Two of which mean a full ride.”

“I knew I taught you well,” YN said, pride filling her. 

Once their little moment was over she turned to Hoseok still appeared confused, but also he seemed to be content. As if something about the interaction had brought him a little bit of happiness despite him being an on looker.

“Hoseok, this is Minho. He’s a pre–med student, soon to be med student. He interned with Jin and I for a while and we’ve kept an eye on him since. Minho this is Hoseok, he’s a friend and tattoo artist at Yoongi’s shop.”

Both men greeted each other politely.

“Sure, he’s a friend,” Minho mumbled, though not soft enough.

At that YN huffed and reached over to pop him, but of course he moved away before he could. He did the stupid eye bro wiggle again which antagonized her more, but instead of trying to get to him she calmed and reminded herself to remember it for next time she saw him not at work.

“Okay, now that you’re done trying to assault me. What can I get you guys? I assume YN wants vanilla, chocolate chip, moose tracks, and chocolate with enough whipped cream to root her teeth. But what can I get you Hoseok?” Minho asked.

“Uh, I can’t handle nearly as much sugar as her. And I hope I never have to. But… maybe two scoops of Superman ice cream. In a cup,” Hoseok said.

YN didn’t try to defend herself or punch his arm, just rolled her eyes and moved down since there was a line forming behind them and the other worker was already doing her sundae.

As Minho got Hoseok’s ready they talked a bit and appeared to hit it off, which pleased YN. She was glad that Minho would have someone else to talk to. The kid tended to keep to himself and his main friends were scattered around the country at different schools. It was hard not to worry about him even though she knew he was doing fine.

Once they got their ice cream and YN paid – despite earnest protest from Hoseok – she led them to a booth back in a corner. And the moment she plopped down a scoop of whipped cream was in her mouth. Of course, the ice cream should’ve been the focus since it would melt but it lasted a little longer in the cold shop so devouring half of the cream first wasn’t the end of the world.

As they ate there was small talk here and there. Talking about their days or whatever thing they were excited about that was coming up. It was consistent and chill, no pressure to have something uber interesting to say and no need to fill the silence when they both stopped talking to just eat their ice cream in peace.

And it felt nice for YN to be able to do that with someone outside of her normal circle of friends. Of course Hoseok was a part of that circle, but she’d never brought him there so it was new for her. 

New and nice. 

Well, the nice didn’t last for too long. 

Just as YN got to the last bit of her ice cream a few people entered the shop, though she paid them no mind. Not until she heard a voice that was painfully familiar. YN’s head snapped up and her eyes found the person with ease.

There were three people to be exact. A middle aged man was smiling down at a kid that looked around ten and a woman around the same age was looking at both of them with a wide smile on her face. They were in their own little world and though YN wanted to look away; she couldn’t for a moment or so. It hurt, but she couldn’t stop herself from looking. 

She needed to get the hell out of there. 

It took Hoseok grabbing her hand to get her focus back on him. His lips were turned down in a frown and his eyes flickered from her to the people she’d stared at. The questions were clearly present, but as he opened his mouth something in him shifted physically. Next thing YN knew he was smiling at her and standing up.

“Ready to go?” he asked.

Without another thought she nodded, not even bothering to finish her ice cream. She got up and threw the bowl away in the trash can behind their booth. Afterwards she grabbed Hoseok’s outstretched hand and they headed out. 

She was so close to getting away, but her waving bye to Minho screwed her over.

Out of interest, the older male turned their way and they locked eyes. His eyes widened and though YN tried to get herself to move quickly after it was too late. The man leaned down to whisper to the woman and she turned around faster than YN could look away. 

That was the moment YN felt like her chest would cave in. Like she would drop to her knees right then and there. It was as if all her work over the years had been for naught, though she knew that the real issue was the joy she saw on the woman’s face. The joy and the regret. As if she was allowed to feel either of those things when it came to YN.

It took a minute, but YN pulled it together and took the lead heading out of the shop. She kept her pace fast, but not so much that she appeared to be running away from anyone. Because even though she wanted to get away, there was no running from that woman. She didn’t hold that much power over her.

Once outside YN was sure everything was safe, but of course it wasn’t.

“YN!” the woman called out.

Ignoring her was the smart move, but YN stopped walking and turned to look at her. She stood just outside the door with the man and the boy next to her. She still wore that smile despite it being clear that YN was far from happy to see her.

“I thought that was you, baby. I wanted to say hi,” she said.

YN scoffed. “I am not your baby. And I don’t know how many times I can make it clear that I don’t want to say hi to you. I don’t want to speak to you. I don’t want to be in the same space as you. I want nothing to do with you. You do not know me, so please act like it.”

The smile dropped immediately and a frown formed on the man’s face.

“YN, we get that you’re upset, but that isn’t how you speak to your mo–” he said.

There was no way she was allowing him to finish that word.

“Going to stop you right there. She is not my mother and she made that perfectly clear for most of my life. Just because she had reality knocked into her later in life does not mean she gets to change anything. And you are not my father nor are you some sort of authority that gets a say in how I talk to her. Least of all when it comes to respect. Neither of you have respected me as a person, so you get none in return. Not one bit. This is not some little family reunion. None of you are my family. Unless you hold the name Min or are one of the few people who I talk to on the daily you are not my family. You will never be my family. I made that clear after you tried to backtrack. Now keep on doing what you did for over ten years of my life and pretend I don’t fucking exist.”

And with that YN turned on her heel and walked away, dragging Hoseok behind her. She didn’t turn around once, not even when she heard a broken voice calling out to her over and over again. 

That woman could sit with her sadness and guilt for her whole life. YN no longer cared to absolve her of it. 

So, with that behind her YN kept moving forward. Literally.

Once she’d started speed walking away she didn’t stop. Not until they were at the park two blocks away from Yoongi’s apartment in the other direction. Once there she located a bench and plopped down onto it, releasing Hoseok’s hand in the process.

Hoseok merely sat down next to her and didn’t say a word. She knew he had a million questions, but he hadn't bothered to ask them or to tell her to slow down the entire way there. He’d just gone with the flow and she felt bad.

“I’m sorry,” she whispered.

“You have nothing to apologize for. You obviously wanted to get away from them and they didn’t take the hint,” he said.

She nodded because he wasn’t wrong, but then she was shaking her head.

“No. I almost dislocated your arm and dragged you for blocks without saying a word after blowing up on people in a very vague way. I owe you an explanation.”

“You don’t.”

She turned to look at him for the first time since they’d left the shop. He was staring at her with understanding and care, which only enforced what she was going to do.

“I may not need to, but I want to. It’s better that I vent it out instead of keeping it all in like this. I agree with my therapist when he says it’s better for me to tell the story when I feel like I need to get it out no matter how many times I’ve said it and no matter how much progress I’ve made. And seeing as you’re trying to stick around you would find out anyway,” she said.

Hoseok’s expression remained the same for a bit, but then he smiled and nodded at her. His hand reached over to grab hers, giving it a light squeeze.

Taking a deep breath YN prepared herself to get into it. To get sad, angry, and numb all over again. She was better than she used to be, but that didn’t stop the emotions from hitting hard each and every time.

“Okay, so you’ve been privy to the dynamic of me in Yoongi. How we seem like siblings who spent their entire lives together and how his parents treat me as if I am their own. It’s because I basically am. I’m obviously a Black woman in the middle of South Korea who fits so well it’s weird. It’s because my father was stationed here at one point after he married my mom and when it was time for him to retire they wanted to stay here. But they had to go back to the US first. While there they had me and though that meant moving was a little harder that didn’t stop them. So, when I was two we moved here. We lived in a house not far from Yoon’s. And though we didn’t know each other for the first few years here he found me stumbling home crying one day and basically took me in. I was only a year younger than him, so we kept close and he treated me as if we were the same age. His family would watch me sometimes when my parents were busy and eventually it was like my second home. Everything was okay.

“But a few weeks after my tenth birthday my dad got sick and it was so sudden. So quick. One moment he was healthy and the next he couldn’t leave the hospital bed or breathe without help. His health deteriorated so quickly and within two weeks were in the VA hospital saying our last goodbyes. He was gone not too long after I’d said I love you. It was just so much and ten–year–old me was stronger and much more grounded then you’d expect of a kid at that age, but that shit fucking hurt. Hurt to watch him leave us. Hurt to watch my mother break down as she lost her husband. Hurt to watch them put him in the ground.”

At some point YN’s breathing increased and her chest tightened. It reached a point where she had to pause and breathe, like truly focus on the action to stop herself from getting too worked up. Hoseok pulled her closer and squeezed her hand and she could see he was going to say something, but she shook her head and took a deep breath before continuing.

“That hurt, but things got better. Things always pick up after something like that. Everything was back to normal, well as normal as could be with a death in the family. We all were good for a while, but sometime between eleven and twelve something in my mother shifted. I’d known a good bit of my life that she hadn’t wanted kids so soon and I was a surprise. She held no hatred, but it was what it was. But as time went on I could feel the resentment. As she tried to move on with her life in the romance department or just meeting new friends I could tell she just saw me as an obstacle. The love was there, but it was so different then before.

“At some point she sent me to the Min’s house more often and wouldn’t come home for days. The self–doubt on if she wanted me anymore was so strong and just as I thought I was wrong; I was proven right. She’d found another retired military man that she was heavily interested in, but he didn’t have kids and didn’t really want them. Which was fine, but he’d voiced not wanting anything to do with children and my mother couldn’t even muster the energy to say fuck him and find someone else.

“No, she told him she had no kid and that went on for months until I came home one day for something and he was there. He didn’t react horribly, but he was obviously displeased with me. Well, no displeasure isn’t the right word. Maybe disgust was it. But either way that’s all it took before my mother was packing up her things and mine. She was moving in with him and I was going to be sent to a foster care center that dealt with international kids.”

A bitter laugh escaped her as she said it. The memory of how her mother acted like it was natural and treated her as if she was lovingly taking her child on some sort of adventure instead of giving her up. YN felt fully immersed in her own rage and anguish, but not enough that she didn’t notice how Hoseok’s jaw locked and the anger in his eyes. She wanted to stop after that, but she was on a roll.

“Anyway, I stayed there for a week. Again Black girl in Korea where even in an international foster care home I’m the only one. It was horrible. I hated every second of it and I don’t know if it was the bullying or pity that made it so bad. But that Monday came and I was finally sent back to school, where Yoongi met me at the front gates. He didn’t know why I’d vanished and when I told him we skipped school and he took me back to his house. He told his mom and she told us to stay at the house. She returned several hours later with all my stuff and told me I was staying there now. That that was my home now and she'd given my mother a good cussing out and demanded some form of custody. 

“So, from then on the Min’s were my family. They didn’t have a whole lot, but they took care of me. And my mother had the decency to provide money for them taking care of me. Helped feed and clothe me. And at some point I felt okay with it all, but that feeling of unworthiness doesn’t just leave because new people tell you you are worthy and that they love you. I spent so much time worried they’d get rid of me at some point that I was scared to even do something slightly wrong. But eventually Yoongi stopped it for the most part. 

“And when he admitted he needed therapy once we got to college I realized I did too and we took the plunge together. Went to talk out our shit. Got better. Didn’t fix everything, but we just wanted better. Better was all we could aspire for and got damn it felt so fucking good to be better. To feel better. To feel like we could live and thrive.”

YN hadn’t realized tears began to fall until Hoseok wiped them from her cheeks. She blew out a burst of air and tried to pull it together.

“We can stop there. You’ve said so much and I don’t want you to keep going and getting yourself even more worked up. You don’t have to do this, baby,” he said.

Of course, she shook her head again. Stopping would give her time to calm down, but she didn’t want to emotionally decompress and then get worked up again. It was best to get it out all at once.

“I’m almost done,” she said.

“You sure?”

“Yeah. Yup.”

“Okay.”

That time she squeezed his hand to gain strength to continue.

“I went to school for nursing first. I knew I wanted to be a doctor, but I thought becoming a nurse first would help out. It would mean I got hands on while in medical school and where I work now offered to pay for me if I worked there and went to school. So by the time I was doing my residency I was so immersed that I was doing more than a lot of the other residents. And that meant that I worked more intimately with patients. 

“I was on my pediatric rotation when she came in with a little boy with a high fever. They had her step out so when I arrived she wasn’t in the room. I was told to comfort the kid and get him treated. So, I did that. And about twenty minutes in she appeared. I was turned around so she couldn’t see my face, but she thanked me and I recognized the voice. When I turned the smile she’d been wearing was gone and replaced with shock, then anger. She was angry with me. As if I’d done anything wrong. And not being an idiot I put two and two together. I requested to be switched out because of our relationship despite having not seen her in like ten years or so. But instead of just letting me be so we could continue that way, she felt the need to pull me to the side to tell me about myself. How I was wrong for not just doing my job seeing as we had no relationship. How just because we’d run into each other there was nothing that was going to change. How I shouldn’t get my hopes up. How she was living such a great life with her husband.”

“She fucking what?” Hoseok shouted.

“Yup. And I told her that I didn’t give a fuck despite the pain I felt inside as I was being rejected again. I told her it didn’t matter and I wanted nothing to do with her or her family. And then I walked away from her. Then four years later we ran into each other and she had this guilt on her face. She cornered me to talk, to apologize, to say how her son needed his big sister, to say how sorry her husband was. And by then I was so fed up that I told her to fuck off. That I wanted nothing to do with any of that. Then I went to an emergency therapy session to talk that through and get validation on my right to not want to forgive them or deal with my half–sibling. And here we are now. Years later and she still tries. And sometimes I think maybe I should talk to them, but I can’t.”

Without missing a beat Hoseok let go of her hand and used his hands to cup her face so he could make her look at him. His eyes were intense, but kind and he looked at her with sadness, but not pity.

“And you don’t have to. They messed up, not you. You hold the right to choose how you proceed. And if that means not talking to her son then that’s fine. You don’t owe that kid your time when he puts you in proximity to people who hurt you. Especially people who should have been there for you like they were for him. You are doing wonderfully, YN. You are living a life you want and working on your issues. You are being the best you can and that is what matters. You are what matters,” he said. 

His words came down on her hard and before she knew it she launched herself forward into him. Hoseok moved his arms so they wrapped around her and he let her cry into his chest. He simply whispered soft words of encouragement and validation. 

It felt so good. Like she’d lifted a weight off. It didn’t take everything away, but something about it made things feel a little less trash. A little less hopeless. 

It’s what sharing did for her and she was so happy to have someone else to share stuff with. 

They stayed like that for a while until they realized two and a half hours had passed and everyone would come looking for them if they didn’t go back. So, after ensuring that YN was good they walked back to the apartment, hand and hand with laughter flowing between them.

When they’d finally managed to go on a date it was about a month after the incident with YN’s mother. Hoseok had so many appointments and events to go to that for once it wasn’t her schedule in the way. But when he was finally free of work he asked her to accompany him out to an amusement park on a Saturday evening. YN loved them so she didn’t hesitate in saying yes.

Hoseok picked her up after he finished his last session of the day. And he looked way too attractive. His black, ripped skinny jeans gave her the perfect view of his tanned firm thighs. And he’d opted for a short sleeve shirt, which meant that the sleeves on his arms were on display. Also, though YN hated to admit it, the backwards snapback he had on had the weirdest effect on her. Usually she rolled her eyes at people wearing them because they were often try hard, wannabe fuck boys, but the fuck boy aesthetic fit Hoseok well. 

Too well.

However, YN wasn’t allowed to linger on that long. For some reason Hoseok felt the need to rush and practically dragged her down to his car the moment she had her shoes on. And once in the car he seemed very focused on driving so she didn’t try to maintain conversation, just stared out of the window and took the time to relax.

Moments of peace were rare and she’d take them whenever she could.

By the time they arrived at the amusement park Hoseok’s serious focus appeared to dissolve into nervous tics. He chewed on his lip aggressively and wouldn’t stop tapping his finger on the steering wheel. Even when he pulled into a spot and turned off the engine he still stayed that way, not glancing YN’s way at all.

“Hobi,” YN said while placing a hand on his thigh.

It took a moment but when he finally did look her way he put on a smile, though it seemed a little forced. And the nervousness laced into his expression didn’t falter at all.

“What’s wrong?” she asked.

There was a head shake and a shrug from him, which was clearly a lie and YN planned to call him on it until he had a change of heart.

“I’m feeling unnecessarily nervous. It’s normal, the idea of roller coasters do that to me and I get on them anyway. But for some reason it’s worse this time,” he said.

YN opened her mouth to offer something else but was cut off.

“And don’t say we can do something else. I asked you to come here because I wanted to come and know you love amusement parks. It was my decision and I’m sticking to it.”

Again, YN prepared to reassure him that somewhere else was fine, but then he narrowed his eyes at her and she shut up. Even using her hand to mime zipping her mouth shut, locking it, and throwing away the key. 

That got him to laugh and that’s all she needed.

After that they got out of the car and headed towards the entrance. Hoseok paid for them to get in and YN having spent time with him knew not to try and fight him on it. He was the only one besides Yoongi and Seokjin who could get her to put her money away, despite the ongoing war of paying within the friend group.

From there they entered the park which had many people walking around, but not the usual crowd. She chalked it up to people wanting to visit the fair that set up shop about twenty minutes away from the park and had a limited opening. It was also an option that Hoseok had mentioned, but YN knew all too well that fairs were never as exciting as someone thought they were. They’d be a smaller version of the amusement park where you hoped to find something new to do and you would find the same games or rides as the park, at a more expensive price. It just wasn’t worth it.

“So, where do you want to go first?” Hoseok asked.

That pulled YN from her people watching and forced her to look at the rides and games. She wanted to playthings, but she also knew that if they won anything it would have to be carried around the park until they left. So, games were a no. Also, she wanted to get on more calm rides, because she loved them as much as the high and fast ones, but that felt like a good wind down. 

“How about that?” she said while pointing to the biggest ride in the park off in the distance. 

Hoseok looked at her incredulously. Poor man looked scared out of his mind and it was kind of adorable.

“What? Why? Can’t we work our way up to that? There is an adorable merry go round that I’m just dying to see you on,” he said. 

More like pleaded.

“The merry go round is for later. I want to work my way down, not up. But if you’re uncomfortable we can start on something else or not even ride it.”

No matter how much YN wanted to go on the ride she wouldn’t force him. The date was supposed to be fun and she couldn’t live with herself if she made Hoseok do anything that he didn’t want to do.

When a minute passed and he said nothing she knew the answer.

“We can go on the swinging ship instead, Hobi. It’s a good starter ride,” she said.

Hoseok nodded, but the moment she started walking he shook it.

“No,” he said, taking a deep break before speaking again. “We can go on the big one. I’m just not used to jumping right on it and if I’m honest I usually avoid it unless Jungkook drags me on, but I can do it. It’s fine.”

“Hoseok…”

The fear slipped from Hoseok’s expression as he turned to cup YN’s face, a smile forming on his lips. 

“It’s fine. I promise. Though you might have to hold my hand the whole way there,” he said. 

YN rolled her eyes at his cheesiness but held out her hand for him to take anyway. And once their fingers were laced together Hoseok started running. There was a struggle to keep up and she cursed him multiple times, but she kept going until they reached the line. 

Of course it was long and she was ready to wait, but then Hoseok steered her towards a different line which was much shorter. She looked at him with a raised brow, but all he did was smirk and flashed her the two fast passes he had. YN’s eyes went wide because she hadn’t even heard him ask for those. But nonetheless she was excited and expressed that by leaning closer and pressing a kiss to his cheek. 

Instead of averting his gaze like he often did Hoseok merely leaned in to press a kiss to her cheek in return. Which brought a wide smile to YN’s lips and that only seemed to make Hoseok’s grow wider.

They stayed like that – like the dorks they were – until they realized they were next in the line. And that info brough Hoseok’s nerves back in full force. YN did as best she could keeping him calm with sweet words and several hand squeezes. She worried it wasn’t enough as they were strapped into the ride and Hoseok started biting his lip again. The voice in the back of her head told her to tell the person in charge that they were getting off, but then she watched as Hoseok took a long deep breath and the tension melted from his face. He smiled and turned to wink at her as the ride started moving.

That reassured her and since the ride moved she focused on what was in front of her. She felt her stomach dip immediately and squeezed her thighs together best she could as they approached the drop. The discomfort before things got started was her least favorite part, but the feeling she got after made it worth it. 

And it was very worth it.

The ride dropped and she felt like she was in another world as it twisted, turned, rose, and fell again. It excited her and she was so happy that she started laughing, which surely made for a horrible picture but she didn’t care.

By the end of the ride she was more than eager to get on another and though frazzled, Hoseok also felt that way. So, as soon as their stuff was collected from the bin they were on their way. 

They zoomed to every ride they could get to and luck just happened to be on their side almost every time. So, few people used the fast pass lane and that meant they were on a new one minutes after leaving the others. And they used that to ensure they got on as many as possible. The only time they stopped was to get little snacks here and there, both worried that too much would trigger nausea and/or vomiting. 

It was just pure fun. The type that YN didn’t always have time for. And the type that Hoseok didn’t always look for. 

For about four hours they hopped around from ride to ride, but at some point the excitement and adrenaline wore them down.

“Okay. I think I’m getting too old to be getting on these rides all day,” Hoseok said as they finished one of those rise slowly and drop quickly rides. 

He sounded out of breath and YN felt out of breath. There was only so much that a body could take, even if they were technically just sitting there and going along with how things moved. At some point you’d zap all your energy or get your adrenaline too high too often, and that was not good at all.

“Same. Want to switch to games?” she asked.

“Yes, please,” he said. 

And just like that they laced their fingers together and walked towards the front of the park. Most, if not all, of the games were up front. Of course, it was just a ploy to get children excited immediately and thus make parents spend more money sooner. Also, to remind them and the kids to try for one of the prizes as they left. It worked out for them well enough. YN remembered coming as a kid and begging Mama Min to let her spend her allowance on trying for a large stuffed teddy bear. Which she failed to do, only for Yoongi to try once and win it for her. She’d never been so grateful and salty in her life.

But regardless of that she usually did the games because she liked the competition and had mastered a few. So even if she failed for what she really wanted, she got something. And even if she didn’t the world wouldn’t end because she wasn’t stupid enough to spend a whole lot of money on the games. 

Thirteen–year–old her would’ve been shocked.

“How about the basketball one?” Hoseok offered.

That brought a smile to her face.

“Yes.”

Hoseok led them that way and before he could stop her YN paid for three rounds. He of course was displeased but didn’t utter a word about it. In fact, his body language shifted and he released her hand and grabbed a ball from his side of the stand.

“I can’t beat Yoongi, but I should be able to beat you. One of you siblings needs to be taken down a peg,” he muttered.

The urge to cackle at that was strong, but YN maintained an aura of nonchalance. Getting cocky or showing too much confidence would make him nervous and she wanted to kick his ass when he thought he had it in the bag.

After she grabbed her own ball the stand worker started up the timer and they got to work. YN didn’t glance Hoseok’s way once, just kept shooting the balls into the hoop and sinking most of them. Even when the new rounds started she continued to remain focused. It wasn’t until Hoseok missed his last ball that she turned his way, smiling and winking before she shot her ball and it sunk in.

Nothing brought her joy like seeing the defeat and incredulous look on Hoseok’s face after she’d done it. The laughter that fell from her lips was involuntary, but she made no attempt to stop herself. It was just too funny.

“Ho… how are you so good at this?” he asked, practically shrieking.

It took a minute, but YN pulled herself together.

“Who do you think was forced to play with Yoongi so he could practice when he didn’t have team practice? He dragged me everywhere, most times against my will. So, I got decent at it. And then we would come do these games and learned how much force and what angle worked best to force it through. You never stood a chance, love,” she said.

At that Hoseok merely pouted and YN turned to request the large bunny that hung close to the top. She thanked the worker and then turned back to Hoseok.

“I thought you weren’t fond of bunnies?” Hoseok asked.

YN shrugged. “It’s for Kookie, he loves them and he was eyeing this the last time we came here. We had to leave quickly so we didn’t have time to stop though.”

“Oh.”

All YN did was nod and then stare at Hoseok waiting for him to say something else. The pout was still on his lips, but there was also a slight twitch that showed that he fought off a smile. It took a moment for him to notice her looking at him though and then he was shaking his head and focusing on her.

“You want to do a few more? It’s getting late and you know that means a flood of teenagers are about to come,” he said.

“Sure, a few more times of me beating you won’t hurt,” she teased while nudging him.

“Oh, so that’s how it is? It’s on,” he said.

Then just like with the rides they found themselves immersed in games. There were only a few people playing them so they got to play almost immediately. It was a war of games and who could manage to pay first. And though Hoseok did well to beat her with paying, he didn’t fare so well with the games themselves.

After they finished with the water squirting game YN had won all but one game. Besides the bunny she’d given her prizes to kids who’d been nearby or watched their competitions. Hoseok won a baseball related one and had his own snake, which he told YN was for her since she was one. Lying to him about not being good at games and then beating him by a long shot. 

The entire walk to the car he pouted, not uttering a single word. Even when they put their prizes in the trunk and got in he didn’t speak. It wasn’t until he’d started the car, put it in reverse so he could pull out, and then put it back in park did he speak.

“How could you beat me in almost everything?” he whined. 

If YN didn’t find his pouting so adorable she’d be annoyed with him, but there was no way she could resist that face. Even the whining was endearing. The man had her close to whipped.

But despite how much she relished in it she still rolled her eyes at him.

“I spent a lot of time playing games like that. After a while even the ones you suck at become easier. It’s not because you're bad at it, I’m just really good,” she said.

That didn’t stop the whining and at some point she simply unbuckled herself so she could lean over the center console and shut him up with her lips. Hoseok gave in quickly, his hand slipping to cup her face as he pressed closer. And the longer their lips pressed together the more worked up it made YN. At some point she nipped at his lower lip with her teeth causing his lips to part and her tongue the chance to slip in. As their tongues intertwined she pressed closer to him, almost sliding into his lap. And she would have done that if the sound of a car horn hadn’t startled them into pulling apart.

YN’s head whipped around immediately, but she couldn’t find where it came from. Which she was grateful for since she couldn’t deal with the embarrassment of someone watching them.

She slid back into her seat and readjusted her shirt, which had risen as their kiss had grown more aggressive. Once presentable she turned to Hoseok again, who stared at her with an intense look in his eyes and while chewing on his lower lip. Which immediately made her want to kiss him again because they were so soft and nice against hers.

Then a lightbulb moment happened.

Leaning over the center console again she stopped and watched as he tried to close the space but pulled away a little. When she did there was some rumbling sound he made, but no attempt to move close again. 

“How about I make it up to you for beating you?”

If she assumed that his expression couldn’t get any more intense, any more lust filled, she was wrong. Hoseok leaned closer to her as if to kiss her, but then he didn’t.

“You can definitely do that,” he whispered.

And just like that he was reaching over to re–buckled her seat belt and pulled out of the parking lot. As he drove YN turned her head so she could smile without him seeing, because if she learned anything from the first and only time they’d slept together it was that any perceived cockiness from her meant more teasing and she didn’t want that. 

The car ride back to his place was silent, but their lack of interaction didn’t dim the tension in the car. Especially with how much of it radiated from Hoseok. When YN would glance his way his face was serious and his hands gripped the steering wheel so tight that his knuckles were white. And if he happened to glance her way when she looked at him he gave that megawatt smile that sent a tingle down her spine. 

By the time they reached the parking lot YN was sure that there was a damp spot on her panties and feared that any time spent unable to do anything would cause it to grow. Maybe even expand so much that the shorts she wore were affected.

Thankfully, Hoseok wasted no time. He got out so fast that he was at her door before she could fully open it and took her hand to lead her inside. Not a word was uttered as he led her through the lobby to the elevator and even in there he was silent. It made YN antsy, but also excited. They’d avoided sex every time they hung out, despite a few times where it seemed like they’d give in.

Once they were inside of Hoseok’s apartment everything shifted. The tension was still there, but it dimmed. Hoseok had been in front of her the whole time and by the time she’d kicked off her shoes he’d finally turned to her was a calm, soft look.

“What’s wro–” she started.

“You’re sure about this, right? And I don’t mean as in if you’re sure about having sex, but how we’re going to do this? It’s my default and if you want to do it another way we can. But I need to know what you want before I proceed.”

It was almost like the little rambling speech he gave before they fucked the first time and she still thought it was sweet. That despite her reassurances and him knowing she was into it that he’d constantly make sure before he proceeded.

“Seeing as part of the reason I made sure to kick your ass in every game was to get you riled up, yes I’m sure. I appreciate you asking though,” she said.

That first sentence was all that was needed to flip his switch so he went back to the lust driven man from before. 

“Oh, so you thought it would be fun to play games?” he asked, but YN knew it was rhetorical so she remained silent.

When he didn’t get a response from her Hoseok smiled and motioned her forward. And without a thought she moved towards him, though she walked slower than she usually did. Which was something that Hoseok seemed to notice but didn’t comment on. 

YN stopped with a few inches between them, far enough that they weren’t exactly in each other’s faces but she could feel Hoseok’s breath on her. She’d contemplated staying back a little farther but had to remind herself that she’d messed with him enough to get herself in trouble and didn’t want to make it worse.

At least not this time.

But she didn’t have to worry about displeasing him for long, because the moment she stopped his hands cupped her face and his lips smashed into hers. He just barely missed knocking their heads together, but that thought was gone the more she got into the kiss. Just like in the car it was passionate and needy. Hoseok attacked her lips with such vigor that she couldn’t help the excitement and arousal that bubbled inside of her. She was beyond eager to continue just kissing him despite the need for more though. The idea of pulling away didn’t make her happy.

Which meant Hoseok did just that as she nipped at his lower lip. A whine escaped her because of it, but he merely laughed at her. He then grabbed her hand and led her out of the mini hallway and towards his bedroom. Part of her wanted to say the couch was closer, but his bed was bigger and far more comfortable.

The moment they entered the room he released her hand and went to sit on the edge of the bed. He motioned her forward and she went, but when he patted his thigh she hesitated. It was only for a second, but he noticed it.

“I’m not dealing with you talking about being too heavy to sit on my lap. Daddy’s thigh. Now,” he said. 

The fact that he remembered after one instance of her saying that in a non–sexual scenario made her cheeks heat up. Not enough to be seen, but enough for her to be slightly more embarrassed by knowing she was blushing.

Not wanting to prolong anything she carefully sat down on his left thigh and much to her pleasure he reconnected their lips. Her arms moved to wrap around his neck as she pressed closed to him, her breasts pushed hard against his chest. That time she wasted no time trying to get him to part his lips and at first he ignored her, but then he bit down on her lip in a way that was almost painful but was right in the threshold of what she took pleasure in. His tongue slipped in and immediately they were tangled together.

So, wrapped up in the kiss YN didn’t really notice Hoseok’s hands move to her hips and guide her up and down his thigh. Well that and the thickness of her shorts. But when she did begin to feel the friction against her covered crotch a moan slipped from her mouth immediately, though it was muffled by Hoseok’s lips.

At that point she didn’t hesitate in helping him out – though it also helped her. She pressed down on his thigh and moved her hips along with his hands, though she tried to move faster as the need for more pleasure increased, but of course Hoseok corrected her form. He used one of his hands to smack her ass and she knew to stop. Though him spanking her only made her much hornier.

Eventually he moved her faster and their lips parted, but she was so wrapped up in the pleasure of riding his thigh that it didn’t matter. As her hips picked up speed she threw her head back and a chorus of moans escaped her. 

She wanted more. Needed more. 

Hoseok watched her for a while, saw her pleasuring herself and then his lips mouth was on her neck. That sparked something more in her as they trailed down her neck, sucking marks into her skin as they got lower and lower. When they reached the top of her breasts the sounds she made stuttered a little. The skin there grew overly sensitive in sexual situations and that was definitely the case then. Every touch made her feel electrified and thus explained the whimpers that poured out of her.

And she didn’t even have time to feel embarrassed. 

No, YN’s focus was solely on her own high and with how little action she’d gotten over the last few months she got close quickly. And she thought she was a few more strokes away from reaching that, until she was suddenly on her back being pressed into the bed. 

So wrapped up in herself YN failed to notice Hoseok leverage her weight to shift their positions. Instead of on his lap he was between her legs. The only constant was his thigh and the fact that he hadn’t stopped rubbing it against her. 

“You were getting off so well on my thigh, baby,” he said. 

YN nodded, her mind drifting to the way his leg was pressed firmly against her. With him more in control there was more pressure and it made the friction much more enjoyable.

“You want to cum on my thigh? Want me to finish you off this way?”

Again, YN nodded, though it was more frantic. She was so close and she needed a little more to push her over the edge, but then he stopped. A grunt of disapproval escaped her as she felt the climax fade away slowly.

Grabbing her face, Hoseok made her look at him. She was forced to see his smirking face as she felt her high slip away from her. A whimper slipped from her lips and she pouted.

“Nope, don’t give me that. You know you have to use your words, baby. Answer my question,” he said.

“Yes, I want to get off this way,” she practically shouted.

Though seemingly displeased by her loudness Hoseok didn’t waste another second. Instead of his thigh though, he used his knee to press against her. It could provide more pressure and once he started moving it her stomach tangled in notes quickly. Her hands gripped the cover for strength and she arched her back a little hoping to get closer. 

At some point the feeling of his knee hurt a little, but she was so close that she didn’t care. The pleasure outweighed the pain – and even added to it. 

But despite her proximity to reaching her climax she felt frustrated. It felt so far away and she was whining more than moaning at that point. She thought she’d never get there and then suddenly her body tensed, then relaxed. With a jolt she came, her mouth opened wide with not a sound coming out as she rode the wave of it.

There wasn’t much time for her to recover though, because Hoseok already had her shorts unbuckled and pulled them down along with her panties. The cool air made her squirm as it brushed against her sensitive clit. She whined, which made Hoseok pause with a brow raised.

“Done after one orgasm?” he teased.

YN huffed. “Never.”

That made Hoseok smile wider as he threw her clothes to the side and lowered himself so his body hovered over hers. She watched him as his head tilted down to press a kiss to her forehead and then he just continued lower. Her nose, lips, neck, collarbone, her chest. He only paused once he got to the top of her breasts, his eyes flickering up towards her. She knew that look from the first time and immediately narrowed her eyes at him. All he did in return was smirk and then move his hands to the bottom of her shirt instead of just tearing the flimsy material.

The process of getting it and her bra off was fast and before she could throw the material his lips were around her right nipple. He suckled on it and allowed his tongue to teasingly circle the bud. It hardened faster than when exposed to cool air. And despite his complete focus on that one he didn’t leave the left one out. Hoseok rubbed the peak between his fingers and occasionally pulled on it. And at some point he switched nipples giving each the same treatment the other had received.

Somewhere along the way YN’s eyes fluttered closed as she unraveled under his mouth. It aroused her; her body ready for another climax. And though she knew it was possible with him just doing that she wanted something more.

Though she knew what it could earn her YN began squirming underneath him. Her movements were small at first, but the more they went ignored the more she moved. Until finally Hoseok bit down on her left nipple and she released an involuntary moan, that sounded slightly like a scream.

He pressed a soft kiss to it after that and then pulled away from her chest, brow raised as he looked down at her.

“Impatient, are we?” 

“A little,” YN whispered.

And for a moment that made the expression on his face shift. The smile on his lips was genuine and he even reached up to softly caress her cheek. But it truly only lasted for a moment before he was back to staring her down with a mischievous look.

“Rushing me will cost you, baby. But don’t worry you’ll enjoy it,” he said with a wink.

That sparked a little fear into YN, but also made her eagerly anticipate what was to come. And Hoseok was nice enough to not leave her waiting for too long.

Just as he had been before he pressed kisses down her body. The ones across her stomach tickled, but she tried her best to fight the giggles that wanted to escape. She focused on the way he got slower as he got closer to between her legs. How his eyes flickered up towards her every so often as he did it. She thought he would tease her by placing kisses against her thighs or just close enough to her clit without touching it, but he did no such thing.

The moment Hoseok’s head was between her legs his lips suckled on her clit, his fingers spreading her open for him. A gasp sounded from her at the abrupt action, the feeling of his warm mouth heightening the pleasure of his touch. The way he sucked on it with enough force that it stimulated her enough without extra interaction. 

But then he abruptly stopped.

 In place of his lips was his thumb, rubbing slow circles against her clit. His mouth ventured lower, his tongue lapping at the cum from her previous climax. He made a purring sound as he licked her clean and they were almost drowned out by the noises YN was making. She hadn’t realized she missed being eaten out, especially by Hoseok, until he was doing it and she didn’t want him to stop. Surely, she could come several times just from his mouth.

But of course just as she grew comfortable with that he switched it up on her. His tongue still ran along her folds, but he used his hand not against her clit to slip a finger inside of her. Which caused her hips to jolt and her to arch to be closer to him. That made him laugh and the vibrations from it heightened the pleasure she felt and made her arch even more. 

However, Hoseok put that to a stop quickly. 

Because of her neediness he stopped playing with her clit to use that arm to push her hips down. She whined at the loss and was going to vocally object, but then the finger inside of her began moving. It was a brisk back and forth motion, but then he curled it upwards and again her hips jolted. There was no chance for her to move closer though because he maintained pressure to keep her down.

After a bit of going on like that Hoseok pulled away to look up at her. His lips formed a pout, but she knew that it was just to tease her.

“You’re squirming so much, love. Is it because you want more?” he asked.

YN caught herself about to nod and cleared her throat before speaking. Though it didn’t help the voice crack.

“Yes.”

Instead of continuing from there Hoseok stared at her and for several seconds she was confused, but then she got it.

“Yes, Daddy,” she whispered.

“Good girl.”

Those were his final words before his mouth reattached to her clit and he added a second finger. His pace before had been moderate, but that time he moved his fingers at a briskly and slammed them into her as if they were his dick. 

Naturally, there were no complaints from her. With her lip between her teeth she propped herself up on her elbows to get a better view of him. The attention to her pussy was one thing but watching him do it was another. Seeing the way his mouth attacked her clit made her even wetter and she felt the coil in her stomach tightening. 

At one point he hit just the right spot with his fingers that it had her screaming out for him. She even almost lost balance and barely caught herself before she was flat on her back again.

“More. Please more,” she begged.

Despite not using his title Hoseok didn’t deny her of her request. He slid both fingers out and then slipped in three instead. It was a bit of a stretch, but she didn’t mind at all. And a stretch is what she’d need before she could take him. 

And of course, the thought of taking him only brought her more pleasure.

She reached a point where she knew she was moments away from cumming again and she needed it bad. So, she laid back again and used her hands to play with her nipples. Pinching and twisting them to respark their sensitivity. All while watching Hoseok between her legs.

Who knows how long it took, but unlike her first orgasm she felt that one coming. Her body tensed, her hips bucking enough that Hoseok lost his grip and couldn’t stop her from arching up. 

Not that he really tried.

While she came he was still licking her and his fingers were still driving into her. They didn’t slow or falter for a second. And he kept going even after she’d finished. Which meant that he was working on her sensitive pussy. She always needed a minute between orgasms, but Hoseok wouldn’t let up.

Whimpers escaped her lips from the discomfort, but then Hoseok made eye contact. He held her gaze in a way that ensured she couldn’t look away and she watched as he pulled his fingers out of her and licked each one clean. A moan got stuck in her throat as she watched him, her lips aching to be the ones around his fingers instead. 

The show didn’t stop there though. Once he’d licked clean Hoseok lowered his head again and YN watched him lick her thoroughly. She could feel his tongue on every part of her pussy and with the way her body reacted it felt like she was dealing with orgasm aftershocks. But nothing compared to the moment when he wrapped his arms around her thighs and yanked her forward before tongue fucking her.

“Fuck,” she whispered repeatedly.

Her eyes clamped shut, but Hoseok dug his fingers into her thigh and she reopened them. His eyes were still on her as he continued fucking her that way and they entranced her again. All she wanted to do was watch him. 

Then, in an embarrassing amount of time, she found her pussy spasming and herself cumming again. It was strong and a little painful, but nothing that she couldn’t handle. Until of course it didn’t end as it usually did. She laid there for a while and was unsure how much time passed before her body truly relaxed. Her eyes had glossed over and by the time she came to fully Hoseok was hovering over her with a smile but worry in his eyes.

She took a deep breath and then spoke. “I’m good.”

A sigh escaped him and she assumed it was one of relief. 

“Good. But maybe I should give you a break for a bit. I have something else you can do,” he said.

Though a tad drained the idea of him having something for her to do made her perk up. She really hoped it was what she thought it was. 

After pressing a quick kiss to her lips Hoseok climbed off the bed and though confused for a moment soon enough she heard things dropping onto the floor and the sound of a zipper. Following a few deep breaths she sat up fully and watched as Hoseok pushed down his jeans and boxers. 

And just like that she was drooling. 

His dick was hard and a bit red from lack of attention. It pressed up against his stomach and she could see how wide it was. Hoseok was about average size in length, but in girth he definitely surpassed her past sexual partners and the few pornstars she frequently watched if she was failing to cum on her own. 

Him inside her was a nice stretch. That included her mouth and pussy. 

So, the moment she had it within reach she got on her hands and knees to crawl towards him. She stopped at the edge of the bed and though she wanted to grab it immediately she didn’t. Her head tilted back a little and she looked up at him with a soft pout upon her lips.

Of course Hoseok knew what she wanted, but naturally he wouldn’t just give it to her.

“Words,” he said. 

She chose her words carefully. “Can I touch you?”

That stupid mischievous grin made an appearance again and she was sure he was going to deny her or find some way to twist her words. Hoseok was like a genie and you often had to be specific.

But he surprised her.

“Go ahead. I’ll save that for another time. Right now I just want to feel that sweet little mouth of yours.”

YN didn’t need to be told twice. Her hand wrapped around him as she used her other arm to prop her up a little. Not bothering with teasing her mouth opened and she took in a quarter of his dick. She lightly sucked on the tip, coating it with her saliva. That didn’t last for long because soon enough she was releasing the head and running her tongue along him. There was no guarantee that she’d be able to take him fully and she needed something to coat him while she simultaneously jerked him off.

Though her focus was his dick it didn’t mean she left his balls hanging. After she’d hit base her head lowered and she took it all on in her mouth, sucking it hard. It’s what finally got a response out of Hoseok, who tended to try and keep his cool.

And the grunting noise he made only incentivized her. She released it from her mouth and her tongue flicked across both of them. Her mouth occasionally enclosing around one of them.

It didn’t last long because one tug of her braid and she was kissing up his cock until she reached the tip. Her eyes angled up to make eye contact with Hoseok as her lips parted and she took him in. That time she took him in about halfway before raising her head nearly off him. She maintained eye contact as her head bobbed and she got into a rhythm and then she broke it to take him down farther.

Her right hand firmly on the lower half of his dick moved as she moved her mouth. They moved in perfect unison and when her mouth tightened around him, so did her hand. YN worked herself up to a good pace that way, reaching a point where she was moving in a way that made it easier for her to take more of him. It stretched her cheeks a fair amount, but what was a little discomfort when she got to choke on his dick.

And choke she did.

Once she got comfortable she got more adventurous. Doing her best to keep her mouth wide and relaxed she took in most of him, leaving and inch or two untouched. But after several attempts she finally conquered all of it, taking him down her throat and holding it before coming back up for air. She did that as many times as she could.

Hoseok seemed to appreciate it if the sounds he made were any indication. Or the way he fisted her hair.

It was clear that he was close and goodness did YN want him to cum in her mouth. She ached for him to climax as if it were her doing it and with how worked up she was it would definitely lead to hers sooner rather than later.

To move things along her hand moved down to massage his poor neglected balls. She’d been so focused on getting him into her mouth she’d forgotten to give them attention. So, she carefully rubbed them around in her hand, squeezing every so often. 

Response from him was positive and she could feel that he was ready to let go.

“Stop. I am not cumming in your mouth. Not this time,” he said through gritted teeth.

Despite that YN didn’t stop. In fact, she picked up speed and deep throated him while squeezing his balls and despite his efforts to pull her off it didn’t happen in time. His release came out in spurts and shot down her throat. As it did she slowly pulled him out of her mouth, though she didn’t fully release him until she was sure he was done. 

If she was going to get in trouble she was going to make sure she got every drop of it.

The moment she pulled away though she was suddenly being pushed back on the bed. Before she could even respond Hoseok was over her and though his eyes appeared blown out from the orgasm there was also some anger radiating off him.

“What did I tell you to do? Stop. And yet you can’t seem to follow instructions. This is the third time you’ve gotten daddy riled up baby and I’ve been nice but that has to end,” he said.

His voice was so soft with its false sense of kindness that if she hadn’t known what she did pissed him off she’d think it wouldn’t be that bad. But Hoseok was a consistent and forward person, he’d made his rules and intentions clear upon the first meeting and she knew they hadn’t changed. Not unless she wanted something different and even then they wouldn’t budge all that much.

Knowing Hoseok expected no response from her she remained silent, which didn’t seem to make him upset or pleased which she preferred. Honestly, she preferred him to say something, anything else. But he remained hovered over her, his smile growing in a way that almost made him appear a bit scary, which made her worry a little bit about what would come.

Punishment could be anything.

Then after making her squirm under his gaze Hoseok rolled off her, laying on his side beside her instead. He didn’t utter any commands, just used his own hands to spread her legs farther. It gave him the perfect view of her glistening pussy. A mix of her last orgasm and her arousal from sucking his dick. 

Next thing she knew his hand made contact in a swift slapping motion against her pussy and she jumped a little. The pain was sudden and slowly dwindled to nothingness. Not that he really allowed her to experience that relief before his hand made contact again. Each strike was harder then the last and they were so out of rhythm that YN could never truly prepare for the next one. 

Despite that it didn’t stop or halt her arousal, in fact it merely ramped up. If she couldn’t feel how wet she was, surely she could hear it every time he spanked her. The noise was loud and clear.

“So, now your compliant. Not fighting me much or putting up a fuss. Just sitting here and taking it. You must really be enjoying yourself,” Hoseok said just as he made his hardest impact.

A tingle ran down her spine and YN couldn’t be sure if it was from the pain or the pleasure. Maybe a mix of both. Or just his words.

“I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself. I wouldn’t want you to not have some fun. And with how fucking soaked you are, I should be able to do this with ease.”

Before she could process what he meant two of his fingers slipped inside of her. There was no buildup of the pace or the intensity, he simply moved them as quickly as he could and with every push in his palm slapped against her clit. It was overwhelming to go from one intense form of stimulation to the other so quickly and without warning. Her body felt like it vibrated as she endured it.

Very quickly it became too much, because despite Hoseok not having a lot of leverage from his position he still knew how to do it just right. How to bend and twist his fingers just enough to make penetration feel like enough to make her reach climax. 

And she almost reached it, her walls tighten around his fingers and she felt ready to go over the edge, but then he stopped.

Bewildered YN turned her head to look at him. Hoseok just stared at her with a smile. It’s when she realized what her punishment truly was. The spanking wasn’t enough, he was going to deny her orgasm. 

She wanted to scream.

“Open,” he said.

Though she didn’t know why he wanted her to do that she still complied. Her mouth opened as wide as it could get and then he placed the fingers that had been inside her between her lips. And without having to be told her mouth enclosed around them, sucking them clean.

“You thought you were going to get to cum again didn’t you? How greedy of you, baby. You can’t think I’d let you off that easily?”

Not being able to speak, but also knowing no response could make things worse YN nodded. Her movements were slow and she watched his expression closely to see how he’d react. The small genuine smile that graced his lips for a moment let her know that she’d done the right thing.

After she’d thoroughly licked his fingers clean he pulled them from her mouth and they went back down between her legs. They didn’t slip in immediately though, instead he used them to rub circles and figure eights on her clit. It was sensitive from his previous actions, so every touch made her hips buck forward. She couldn’t keep still and Hoseok seemed to be amused by it. 

“So sensitive and responsive. You’d think that you’d be running away from me and yet you press forward wanting more. So eager for daddy, love?” he asked.

“Yes,” YN said, though it came out hoarse so she repeated it.

Hoseok hummed in response, his fingers moved lower and then he slid three inside of her. She’d cum enough and was wet enough that they entered with ease. That didn’t mean she didn’t feel the stretch they caused, which was so delicious that she purred in response to it.

The pace that time was slow. Painstakingly slow. YN wasn’t sure if it was better or worse, but at least it was something. And with her impending orgasm having not faded quickly the buildup happened faster. Though she ached to tease her clit to move things along but knowing Hoseok that would make it worse.

And she feared that he’d snatch it away again.

While she languished in the feel of his fingers her head fell back against the bed and she moaned out. Her hands longed for something to do, so she slowly creeped them up to her breasts. When Hoseok caught wind of the movement he stared at her for a moment before nodding. Not needing to be told twice her fingers lightly flitted over her nipples. They hadn’t been played with in a while but were still rock hard and responsive to her touch. As she carefully tweaked and pulled at them a chill ran through her.

It felt so close and she needed it so bad. She pinched harder hoping to ignite more pleasure in herself and push things along, which helped greatly. Her eyes fluttered closed as she felt her walls pulsate and she hit the edge, but again it was snatched from her.

“Nope. Eyes open baby,” Hoseok said and though she couldn’t see him she could hear the amusement in his voice.

Her eyes flew open and she cried out, her body shaking a little from the feeling of being denied yet again. She felt so frustrated and eventually let out a scream to make that clear.

But that didn’t seem to faze Hoseok one bit. The little shit just laid there and smiled down at her. 

“Poor baby. You can’t hide those pretty eyes from me. You have to watch while I do this. Can you do that?” he asked.

Though her want to be compliant waned she nodded and mumbled a yes.

Apparently, it was enough for Hoseok because he slid his finger back inside of her and continued his painfully slow fingering. 

That made YN more frustrated than she could comprehend and she was eager to defy him, but she thought of something better. Turning her head she looked at Hoseok whose eyes were glued between her legs, but eventually met her own. She chewed on her lower lip and stared into his eyes, whimpering and moaning whenever he hit just the right spot. No matter how much she wanted to close her eyes in pleasure she resisted and maintained that contact. 

It wasn’t instantaneous, but there was a shift in Hoseok. He went from stoic and mischievous to the lust filled eyes he’d had in the car on the way there. His fingers picked up the pace – which she wasn’t sure was intentional – and he watched closely as she continued to voice sounds of pleasure.

Something in him was cracking.

Not seeing that as enough of a change in him YN reached over to cup the back of his head, her own moving closer to press a kiss against his lips. It was gentle, but passionate and she knew that her neediness was clear. After she pulled away, but only enough that she could see his eyes and he happened to hit just the right spot to set her off.

“Please, Daddy. Please. I need to cum so bad,” she whispered.

There was no reaction for a few seconds, but then his fingers pulled out and she thought she’d failed. That wasn’t the case though.

“On your hands and knees, baby. The only way you’re cumming again is on my cock,” he said.

YN was sure she had never moved so fast in her life, because within three seconds she’d flipped on her stomach and pushed herself up. Not only was a climax imminent, but he was also doing her preferred position. The way her stomach flipped didn’t even feel like it relayed how eager and happy she was. 

The moment she was in position Hoseok’s hand was on her hip and she felt his dick rub against her folds. It would have annoyed her minutes before, but at that moment all she could think about was it being inside of her. 

“Condom?” he asked.

Her response was immediate. 

“No. Goodness no. I just need you in me.”

Laughter escaped Hoseok at that and then he didn’t hesitate to push inside. Aware his thickness he didn’t slide in all at once and entered her a few inches at a time. Not that YN would’ve minded him doing that.

Once he made that final inch he paused. 

“You good, baby?” he asked.

Despite barely being adjusted to the stretch she nodded frantically.

“For the love of all that is, yes. Please move. I need you to move,” she cried out.

And that was all he needed to hear.

Hands gripping her waist, Hoseok pulled out and then pushed back in. His pace was moderate and slowly sped up. Just like with his fingers he slammed into her as hard as he could with the kind of leverage he had and YN was thankful for it.

If she had been vocal before it was ten times that with his dick inside of her. Her own moans were cut off by each other when he hit the right spot, especially when he continuously found it. She could feel herself build up again and she would be damned if she lost out one more time.

“Faster. More, please.”

The words were soft, but with the change up in stroke she was sure he heard her. And from the way he also released a series of moans it was clear the shift was needed for both. That both of them were on the brink.

One stroke in particular sent a wave of pleasure through her and she could feel that she was close. 

“Fuck. Close. So, fucking close,” she screamed.

In an instant Hoseok’s arm was around her waist and he was pulling her up to press against his chest. YN was shocked, but she went with it since it hadn’t dulled her own pleasure and she felt so fucking full of him.

“Play with your clit for me, love,” Hoseok whispered in her ear.

Her hand shot down and she used two fingers to press against it. They moved at the same pace that he fucked her in and with how sensitive it still was her hips bucked each time she applied pressure. But goodness did it do the trick.

There was a momentary freeze up and she felt herself unravel a half a second before she did.

“I’m cum…”

The force of it rendered her speechless. Even the moans she’d been letting out ceased, her mouth agape as she came. And it didn’t end quickly nor was it her usual minimal mess climax. She could feel herself squirt around his dick, though it didn’t fully process; too busy experiencing the euphoric moment.

When she finished her body fell forward and Hoseok released his grip, allowing her to fall onto her hands as he continued to fuck into her. His pace picked up, but his strokes were less uniform and a bit all over the place. Soon enough he was cumming inside of her.

“Fuck!” he yelled.

What happened after that was a mystery to YN because she spaced out hard as she came down from her high and regained control of her breathing. When she finally did tune back into reality she was on her back and Hoseok – who was also breathing heavy – was smiling down at her.

“Making you wait wasn’t so bad now was it?” he joked.

Naturally, YN’s hand reached out to swat at him, but she was too tired and missed the mark completely. Hoseok laughed at her and then leaned down for a quick kiss before getting off the bed.

“I’ll be right back,” he said and then went to the ensuite.

Still not fully recovered, YN took a moment to get her breathing back to normal completely. It took a minute, but she did it. Though the way her pussy pulsated proved to be a little uncomfortable and altered her focus a few times.

By the time she was able to sit up Hoseok returned. He grabbed her hand and helped her off the bed, seeing her legs buckle he wrapped his arm around her waist and led her to the bathroom. Once inside he helped her over to the toilet so she could pee, and then into the bath he’d drawn. 

The hot water was too much at first, but after a few seconds and slowly immersing herself she adjusted to it. And it felt so good against her skin. 

After ensuring she was comfortable Hoseok went to leave, but YN reached out and grabbed his hand. A pout on her lips.

“Where are you going? Are you not going to join me?” she asked.

Hoseok leaned down and pressed a kiss to her forehead.

“I'll be back in a minute. I just need to take care of the sheets so we can lay down after,” he said.

That had her blushing and dropping his hand immediately. 

Laughter followed Hoseok as he made his exit to do what he needed, but YN didn’t take it to her. Instead she focused on relaxing in the tub. Her eyes fluttered shut and her body sank lower. She’d gotten so calm and comfortable that she didn’t notice him come back until he moved her body forward so he could slip behind her.

Despite the change it didn’t affect her comfort, it enhanced it more than anything. Her eyes didn’t even open.

At first at least.

Seconds in Hoseok began trailing kisses along her collar. The sudden touch surprised her, despite already being wrapped up in him. But it only lasted for a moment before they fluttered shut again, a content sigh leaving her.

They sat there in silence for a while, but Hoseok had something to say.

“So, is the first date the right time to ask you to be my girlfriend?” 

YN scoffed. “We both know this is like date twenty.”

“Oh, so you acknowledge that our hang outs were dates. How convenient.”

“Oh, hush,” she said as she pinched his thigh.

Of course, he whined about that, but stopped quickly. 

“So does that mean it isn’t and you will be my girlfriend?” 

“Yes.”

“Oh.”

“What do you mean oh,” she said, turning to see his face.

“I thought you’d make me beg.”

“Okay, never mind. I take it back, I won’t be your girlfriend.”

“No, no… No take backs.”

And for the rest of the bath time they bickered, even as they finally made the attempt to clean themselves and not just sit. It was safe to say they were nearly prunes when they finally got out. 

Psst... if you like this pairing I’ll be following their story years after this moment for my Bangtan Boardwalk collab with @BangtanHQ in late August. It’ll be called ‘With All My Heart.’

[vannahfanfics]

Before you read, here’s the previous chapter. New? Start from the beginning!

Crimson Butterflies

Ao3

Chapter 2: Bienvenido

“Gotta make things difficult for me, don’tcha, honey?” Touya grunted, holding a multitool in his teeth as he wrangled with the rusted chains securing the back door of his apartment complex. The girl didn’t answer, of course, considering she was slumped unconscious against the dirty brick wall. Touya cast glances at her out of the corners of his eyes as he worked, checking for the ragged rise and fall of her chest every few seconds. “Can’t walk in through the front door with ya bleedin’ everywhere,” he huffed and pulled the tool out of his mouth, jamming it into the padlock. He fiddled it with a second, jiggling the thin wire within the mechanism, and then twisted. The lock sprung free and the chain slithered to the ground, coiling up like a silver-and-brown snake. 

“All right, toots, let’s go,” he exhaled, still crouching and shuffling over to bundle her back into his arms. She moaned quietly, flinching despite his care not to jostle her too much. Before rising, he took another look at her bruised and bloodied face. “Damn,” he said quietly and brushed a strand of her sweaty, dirt-caked blonde hair out of her scrunched-up eyes. “Someone really did a number on you.” 

“Help me,” breezed past her busted lips, small and pathetic. Touya smiled wanly, then straightened up, the girl dangling limply in his arms. 

“Don’t worry, girlie. I intend to.” 

Despite the bright daylight outside, the apartment complex was gloomy. The few spears of light that snuck through the thick russet-red curtains illuminated the dust particles swirling in the air. Touya edged down the hall, stopping to peer around the corners before moving on. The security guard was slumped in his chair in the front lobby, snoring loudly and sucking moths into his mouth with every rumble and then blowing them back out, fluttering and confused, with every whistling breath. 

“Right where I left you,” Touya joked in a small whisper before skirting around the lobby to the staircase. He set his feet down gently, his boots barely thunking against the old wood. However, each time he pressed his weight down on one leg, the wood groaned loudly. “Shitty old apartment,” he grumbled, looking fervidly back at the security guard, who didn’t stir. “One of these days, I’ll fall through these damn stairs and I’ll sue that old bitch landlord for everything’s she’s worth. How’s that sound, toots?” he huffed, adjusting her in his grip before continuing. “The ticket to the high life, eh?” 

He made it to the second level without incident. He walked down the hall, the toe of the girl’s one remaining boot scuffing gently against the wall due to the cramped quarters, to his room at the end of the hall. 

“All right, sweets,” he mumbled, gathering the girl into one arm so he could reach into his pocket and fish out his apartment key, “Bienvenido a mi casa.” He inserted the key into the grimy brass lock and turned, the tumbler system clicking loudly. The door squeaked as he pushed it open with his toe, and the floor groaned underfoot as he shuffled into the entryway. He kicked the door shut and twisted the lock behind him, then adjusted her to fit in both his arms again. He glanced down to see that the wound in her left side had smeared blood all over his tee-shirt, dyeing the tattered white fabric a bright crimson. Guess I won’t be wearing that one anymore, he thought with a wan smirk. “Let’s get you patched up, eh, girlie?” he said, walking across the small space to his couch. 

“Easy does it,” he said to himself as he draped her down on the torn fabric, nestling a throw pillow under her head. She whimpered and writhed against the cushions, sending a few pieces of stuffing tumbling down to the floor. Touya shushed her while pushing her hair away from her sweaty forehead. “Oi, if you don’t like me now, you’re about to hate me in a few minutes.” 

He left her on the couch while he walked to his kitchen, squatting down in front of the sink to tug open the cabinets. He retrieved the first-aid kit and a bottle of hydrogen peroxide and then closed them. He rifled through another drawer to snag a tattered dishrag before meandering back to the couch. He grabbed the edge of the coffee table and tugged it close, then eased himself down on its edge. He waited a second, honestly worried about whether or not it would hold his weight; the legs didn’t buckle and the wood didn’t snap, however, so he flipped open the first aid kit. 

“Damn, I really don’t know where to start,” he sighed when he turned back to the girl, surveying the countless scratches, scrapes, and cuts littering her body. “Just who did you piss off?” He decided to go with a head-to-toe approach, but tackle the large wound first since it presented the biggest challenge and risk of infection. He pulled his knife out of his pocket and switched it open, leaning over her. “Sorry about your dress, sweets, but it’s in the way.” Carefully so as not to nick her already battered skin, he cut out a square of fabric lying over her midsection, leaving plenty to cover her bust and her nether regions. The fabric clung to the blood-soaked skin, and despite Touya’s attempt to be gentle, flesh still ripped away the cloth as he pulled it away. 

“Damn. You got shanked real good,” Touya grunted when he finally got a good look at the gash. It was about half an inch deep, carving through the muscle between two of her lower ribs. Blood oozed through the torn pink fibers and around the white bone; still, despite how gnarly it looked, Touya was confident that he could stitch it together. “All right, toots, this ain’t gonna feel good,” he grunted while dousing the rag in hydrogen peroxide. Then, with little fanfare, he began scraping away the congealed blood and dying flesh from the laceration. 

The girl sucked in a harsh breath, face pinching up in pain. “I know,” Touya said softly. “It hurts.” Despite the fact that half of his body was now dead, unfeeling skin, that didn’t mean he couldn’t empathize with others’ pain. He worked as quickly as he could to clean up the wound, allowing the girl to settle for a moment before tackling the stitching. It was less painful, though, considering most of the nerve fibers were frayed around the cut. Working silently, he threaded the flesh and tugged it back together, careful not to introduce any outside debris that could present a risk of infection. 

When he was applying the antibiotic-smeared bandage to the freshly-stitched cut, he happened to look at the girl’s face— and found red-orange eyes peering back at him. 

Despite his heart somersaulting in his chest, Touya managed to keep a straight face. He looked back to her side, patting the adhesive against her skin to smooth down the edges. 

“Rise and shine,” he remarked blaisely, sitting up to begin pulling out smaller bandages for her other cuts. He could feel her eyes boring into him, intense despite the haze of pain glossing them over. 

“Where am I?” 

“My apartment. I found you in the alleyway, toots, bleeding like a stuck pig,” he explained before turning back to her. He soaked a cotton ball in antiseptic and began dabbing it over the injuries to her face, careful not to press too hard on the bruised areas. She didn’t flinch away from him, just continued to give him that level and emotionless stare. He applied a bandage to a cut on her cheek, then paused to look down at her. “You got a name, darlin’, or am I gonna have to continue through my repertoire of pet names?” 

“Moe,” she said after a moment of hesitation. “Moe Kamiji.” He nodded, discarding the blood-tinged cotton ball and preparing another. When he leaned back over her to begin dabbing the wounds on her neck, she asked, “And you?” 

“You can call me Dabi,” he answered. He had no idea what this girl’s deal was, so his street name would have to suffice until he decided whether or not he trusted her. She fell silent, sleepily watching him move down her body to attend to her wounds. Once he applied the last of his bandages to an avulsion on her ankle, he sat back with a sigh. 

“All right. You can’t walk around in those strips of fabric, so I’ll get you some clothes,” he said, patting his thighs before standing up. His lower back twinged and his knees cracked in protest, sore after sitting and leaning over for so long. Moe said nothing as he walked away from her, down a small hall to his bedroom. He grabbed a tee shirt and some boxers from his dresser before walking back out. Honestly, he’d expected to find her in the middle of trying to escape; he was surprised to see her still laying on the couch and peering at him with those bright, bright eyes. 

“All right,” he said and gave her the clothes. “You really don’t need to be up and movin’ too much with that gash on your side. Do you need help?” he asked. Moe shook her head, so he turned his back to give her enough privacy to dress. He heard her shuffling behind him, the fabric rustling as she peeled it off her body. She occasionally grunted or groaned in pain, some of them so painful-sounding that he was tempted to turn around. 

Finally, she uttered a meek, “I’m ready.” 

He turned around and almost smiled at the way she drowned in the gray fabric of his shirt; the hem reached the lower end of her thighs with how petite she was. Touya snatched up her ruined dress and lone boot from the floor, walking them to his trash can— it wasn’t like they would be of any use to her anymore. As he dropped them in, he said, “So, care to enlighten me on how you ended up a bloody pulp in a back alley?” 

Moe didn’t speak. She dug her fingers into the fabric of his shirt and stared down at the floor, her eyes sad. Touya waited for a minute, and when it was obvious she was in no mood to divulge, he shrugged. “All right, then. I ain’t gonna force ya to talk or anythin’. Doesn’t matter to me none. Do you have somewhere to go?” 

This time, she murmured a faint, “No.” 

“I thought as much,” he sighed, walking back to her while raking his fingers through his hair. He slumped into his recliner, stretched back into it and propping up his feet. She peeked up at him while he rested his hands behind his head, hesitant. “Look, what happened to ya ain’t none of my business. You’re welcome to stay here until you’re better and then go on your way, or don’t. Though if you stick around too long, I’mma start chargin’ ya rent,” he joked with a smile. The edges of Moe’s lips curled up into a small smile at his teasing. 

He reached down into the small cooler he kept by his recliner, unzipping it and pulling out a beer. He held it out to her in offering, and when she nodded, he pulled out his Swiss army knife and popped off the cap with the bottle opener. She took it, sipping at it silently, and Touya retrieved his own from the cooler before zipping it back up. The gas inside hissed as he popped off the cap, cold white wisps wafting around the lip of the bottle. He sipped at the bitter liquid, watching Moe do the same. 

The sunlight had faded into dusk, eclipsed further by the rain clouds moving in from the east. The gray, thick clouds swelled with water, roiling and rumbling with gentle thunder. As the rain began to patter against the glass panes of his window, Touya recalled the biker a few nights ago with wild blonde hair that had searched for something he couldn’t see. She’d watched her comrades zoom by like she didn’t want to join them. Yet in the end, she’d done just that, disappearing into the mist with her tail lights shining like crimson butterflies. 

Moe tucked her blonde hair behind her ear, eyes coming to gaze at him. They were crimson too, with flecks of orange fire. Then she looked back down to her beer. She took a long swig, drinking like she wanted to forget something. She probably did. 

Don’t we all, girlie, Touya thought and brought his beer to his lips. Don’t we all. 

Yet life didn’t want you to forget certain things. They came back to haunt you, especially when you least expected it.

Enjoy this story? Here’s the next chapter! Please consider perusing my Table of Contents.

[furymint]

For Piano Day. | wc 1,161

"You hear that?" Nolanel stood still, stretching his injured thumb against its wrapping. A floorboard creaked under his weight as he paused. His suspicion drew along the discolored wallpaper and rotten molding. Deeper within, mayhap?

Vera padded to the ceiling-high window further down the hall. She ducked around a lengthy crack in the pane and squinted to discern the image of a snow-ravaged garden in the lower yard. "What's it?" she said. Her breath fogged the glass. She snorted and started for the far door.

Nolanel swallowed. He wanted to lie, to tell her he wasn't sure, that it was nothing. It was probably nothing. But uncertainties cost more lives than truths. If he and Vera weren't the only people in this manor, and if he gave the all clear to the brass for the company to take shelter--there could be lives to pay for his pride. He followed her.

"A piano," he said.

Vera glanced at him. Exhaustion hardened his face; his arms hung limp under the weight of armor. He was sincere, but desperate--and always afraid. He wouldn't blink. The fractured sunlight from the window glossed his watery eyes and greasy hair. To tell him no was to damn him.

"Aye," Vera grunted, and laughed once: the door handle had been stolen. She shoved the door open.

Feathers coated the floor. The couches and pillows had been stripped of fabric, and their innards drifted into loose piles throughout the parlor. Curtains lay in heaps under windows where the upholstery rods had been stolen. Deep in the fireplace, ashes from decades ago stirred from the draft. An untouched painting of a noble woman hung above the empty mantle. Nolanel found himself avoiding her flat gaze as he entered.

Vera inspected the lampshades for secrets. For once, she shut her mouth against comments and only moved what wouldn't make noise. Nolanel shut a side table drawer and whispered to thank her; she curled her lips, batted a roach off a chair, and stomped on it.

"That's the third one today," she grumbled, "and the first was the Duke's regiment's useless corporal."

"You stomped him?"

"Flung him in a ditch." Vera kicked a pile of feathers, sending white plumes whirling towards the ribbed ceiling.

Nolanel rubbed his face. The dirt on his cheeks smeared closer to his eyes and darkened his dark circles. "We've good things to look forward to when we report back, then."

"Oh, aye. So take your detour, loot what you like, and don't think you owe me any favors."

Nolanel stopped. Take it easy, she meant. She won't snitch. She'll take responsibility.

Then she didn't believe him.

"Forget it," he said. "Go upstairs. I'll handle this floor." Nolanel swung around the last of the furniture and passed through the next door.

A sitting room. Walls of displays. Encyclopedias arrayed behind screens. Smashed cases of glass and empty plate stands. Paintings of spring waterfalls and women with tasseled umbrellas. Cracking underfoot, teacup saucers lay shattered on the auburn rug. A plush footstool bore a film of gray mold. No.

The next door squealed as he forced the rusted hinges open. Vines and leaves spread vein-like roots across the dull floor tile. The entire right wall opened into a skeleton frame of battered metal and shattered glass. Upside-down lounge cushions sprawled, their cloth torn open in craters like the skin of corpses left in the sun. A mouse darted to a serving cart and hid amongst the rolled napkins.

Next: a bathroom, stolen faucets and collapsed shelving. The bedroom with bloody sheets and a toppled dresser. He kicked his way into a locked closet filled with relics of dressing gowns. There was a faded mural on every wall of an empty chamber; he spent too many minutes examining the legions of men and chocobos, of foxes twisted in the bloody maws of hounds.

Silence followed him through the enormity of the estate. He mistook the echo of his footsteps for others, his breath for the hiss of opening doors, and his fears for realities. But he had heard the piano. Three gentle notes like a hello. Gods, gods, why couldn't he hear it again?

They were a comfort against misery. Beauty in this destruction, home in this wasteland, surety against the tricks of his own mind. His knees fell weak with blind hurt. He was alone; it preyed on him and he let it because he couldn't feel it when they watched him, those damn people he was trying to save.

There were so many dead flowers here.

Damn this place, this labyrinth of useless wealth and history. What could it shelter him from but the rain? Ice was in windowsills and the wood was full of poison rot. The kitchen held no food. Even in the yard, where a well and fountain poked from the white, there was choking dirt and slime with the water. There was nothing in this house, and no one. He doubted there was a piano. If only there were ghosts, or even gods here, somewhere between the chandelier chains and the sinking floor tiles.

He moved through the rooms, repeating some, naming others, learning to hate more than to know the layout. Animals, wild and afraid, skittered from his step and look. Twice he heard Vera's steps from above. Then a gallery. An office. Monotony. Where was the stairwell? He could fetch her and leave, and that would be it.

Grimacing, he realized he'd been speaking his thoughts aloud. Damn, damn, he cursed aloud too. He careened into the nearest doorway. Another parlor. 

There. A blanket covered half of it. In the corner. An upright piano, the panels removed from the front to bare every string and hammer. Twigs were stuffed into one of the harps to form a birds nest. Dried leaves and bits of seed littered the ground before it. One of the pedals laid cracked among them. The damper, he thought, and laughed--why did it matter at all? He could not play to save his life although the instrument meant all of it.

Nolanel approached and sunk against the yellowed keyboard. Blood from the gauze wrap on his fingers spread on the first key he pressed. By some miracle, it worked. The sound renewed memory in him; he knew he was loved. Watching the strike of the hammers with each note, he tested for the spectrum of strings that housed the nest and avoided it. His heart seemed to slow to the exchange of key and string--the gentle clunk of ivory and the resounding voice of song.

He felt a fool on his knees, too tired to stand, pressing random keys just for the familiar sound, no matter the sound. The blanket lain over the boards touched his shoulder like a comfort. Each key gave a different resistance; some hammers missed their strings; he learned what worked and what didn’t until sleep called him and his red hand dropped.

[allstyleretrofitkitchen]

IKEA's Stylish Cabinet Doors Will Transform Your Kitchen

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