#i'm just reminiscing on this kim

[magicaldreamfox1]

sometimes all i think about is you...

[bangytell]

A cheating way jk| m

Don't believe in fairytales, but we got our fantasies And it's me and you, no she. Doja Cat— You right

Summary: Marriage isn't always a good fortune, or perhaps its only the person you married.

Genre: Strangers to lovers, smut

Rated: mature

Pairing: Jungkook x f!reader

Word Count: 3.9k

Warnings: Non idol au! Infidelity, mentions of domestic violence, mentions of the use of alcohol, pet names, mentions of Namjoon, oral(f! receveing), unprotected sex, praise kink and I think that's all

a/n: I know some of you might have already seen this, im re-uploading, please be nice with your comments. Enjoy

The music pounding waves through your now drunk body as you dance along to the beat, and you feel a warm body approaching from behind you, too drunk to care that you sway your hips along his warm body, he chuckles into your skin and you feel a tickle. 

“Didn't know you're that fun to be around” his voice was deep and hypnotic

You didn't reply, but you looked as his curious look traveled up and down your body, the music was still so loud, and the dizziness of your thoughts made you believe that the best decision you could make is to kiss him.

You don't. You sit with your friends and try not to be wasted any longer. Your friends are laughing at some joke, and you focus your attention on the dance floor. He's not around anymore. You begin to feel that he was just some fantasy of your imagination. 

“Are you [Name] Kim?” The question comes from the man next to you. It's none other than him 

“Why would I give you that information?” he smiles wide, and your heart skips a beat 

“Well, gorgeous, you don't really have to, I know that is you” you arch an eyebrow

“How can a kid know me” his smile never leaves his mouth as he answers back

“How about I show you?” You shake your head in denial

“Look, honey, just get yourself home and forget about me”

“That's impossible” you chuckle “Even if I leave, you'll be in my mind” You show him the ring adorning your ring finger. He chuckles as you look confused 

“I'm not jealous” he leans in, and you get a soft sniff to his cologne. It's sweet and intoxicating 

As the night continues, he doesn't leave your side he tells you more about himself and he listens as you answer to his question, he looks and focus on your eyes, your friends are on the dancefloor and after another five drinks and the smell of his cologne closer and closer to your body lets him leave a hand on your thigh, you're laughing and his face is next to yours, his hot breath on your temple and you smile as you ask him: “And what's your name?” he chuckles and leads a hand to cup your face 

“Jungkook, and don't worry, you'll be saying it a lot tonight” You chuckle again, and he kisses you softly and hungrily his lips are soft, and so are his hands all over you.

The ride holding his back as he drives off on his bike to the nearest yet decent motel makes your stomach bubble up in excitement, you're married yes, but at this point there's no turning point.You arrive, he pays and leads you inside the room. He kisses you, and tries as hard as you can, to forget all your life's problems, and he notices how stiff your movements are and how difficult it is for you to live in this moment. 

“Is everything okay, doll?” You sit on the bed and cover your face with your hands

“I'm sorry, you're probably thinking I'm pathetic” he shakes his head in denial and kneels in front of you 

“Talk to me” you lock gaze with him, and he seems to have forgotten about the horniness in his body 

“I don't think this is a good idea” he nods and you talk again “You're amazing, and you make me feel wanted, desired, like a woman and not like someone's trash” 

“Why would you have such confidence in you?” You huff

“My husband, he's been unfaithful since the fourth month of our marriage, and we've been married for ten years now” you sigh, reminiscing how happy you were the first months 

“And why haven't you divorced?” You huff 

“It's a long story” his hands are on one of your thighs, caressing it as you sigh exasperated “Our families practically set our marriage from our cribs, he's been a heartthrob and I just play my part” 

“Is there any reason why you couldn't leave now? You must have some money of your own, and I know you have a career, so maybe you, you can…” you hold his hands 

“Don't feel so frustrated for me, we can forget about each other the next morning” he sighs 

“And if I don't want to?” You look at him in surprise. He cups your face and leans for a peck 

“Jungkook… I don't think this is good for you nor me” 

“Then just give me this night, give me just one chance to make you think of me” You sigh. His sweet touches and kisses make you agree as he hovers your body on the bed.

His kisses are wet and sloppy as your hands travel around his back, discharging his shirt, you take a moment to look at his wingspan and just at the sight your cunt yearns for him. He helps you take your dress from your head and notices the lack off bra, he cups your breasts with his hands and your body quivers at the cold breeze of the winter, soon his mouth has your nipple around his teeth, licking and sucking on one another making you moan his name and he hums into your skin, as a meal he enjoys. One of his hands is caressing your stomach, traveling down to discharge your panties and your hands are pulling his hair, the sound of his mouth making a wet mess all around your breasts makes you shiver. And he adores the taste of you, the smell of your perfume as he leaves a trail of kisses making his way to your pussy. 

He might be young but he knows exactly where and how to get you started, his tongue presses against your clit and loud pants leaves your mouth, soon, his licks become precise and slowly. He's taking his time eating you out, making your toes curling, and a moaning mess. Your hands are once again on his hair, swirling the strands of hair as you moan and mewl his name. 

He adores the way you say his name, the saccharine moans that leave your mouth and the way one of your hands is gripping the sheets in a attempt so stop the way your body keeps meeting his mouth, the way you close your thighs and try to swirl around him, his hands hold you in place as you shout “ ‘m cumin!” He continues the pace he has as you close your eyes, gripping the sheets stronger and letting your juices go through Jungkook's tongue. You're panting as he pulls his pants down, he gets you comfortable as his tip slides against your clit and he moans at the sloppiness of your cunt. He gets inside of you with a guttural sound from his mouth, he grips from your arms as he pounds into you, harder yet slow. 

“You take me in so well… almost like ngh… almost like your pussy made for me” he moans your name and looks in your eyes, he enjoys the way you're not able to maintain the contact, the way you're saying his name and the way your skin sounds every time he crashes into you.

he's pounding, bullying your walls as you scream at the overstimulation, his hands are now around your neck and you know he's done this before, by the way you're feeling the lack of blood through your head, his pace fastens, his movements are less precise and he cums into you with a guttural moan. The weight of his body on you and the heavy panting makes you feel in bliss. He chuckles as he pulls away from you and the sticky feeling has him giving you a worried look. 

“Don't worry ‘bout it” you chuckle, he gives you your clothes and as you dress you feel his gaze upon you “you're going to wear me out” 

“You're so beautiful” you chuckle and pat the empty space in bed, he lays with you and cuddles as you doze off to sleep. 

In the morning the bed was empty, only a small trace of his cologne makes you remember the night before. There's a small note on the nightstand, he has pretty handwriting. 

If you still want to give me moments to remember, call me

His phone number with a small heart drawing. 

The ride home was automatic, nobody was waiting for your arrival and that made your heart clench.  

You call the number on the note, wondering if it was the right decision, you're getting yourself full of bad decisions. 

“Hey, doll” you smile 

“How did you know it was me” he chuckles 

“I've been answering every call from my work hoping that it was finally you” your heart skip a beat 

“Are you free tonight?” you bite your under lip anxiously 

“For you, I'm free now” you chuckle 

“No Jungkook, I have some meetings today, so at night maybe…” he might believe I'm pathetic

“Alright, but I'll take you to dinner before, don't worry I'll text you the address, bye doll” he hangs up and you hear your front door opening, is your husband. 

“Hey [name] I'm just looking for something don't wait for me tonight” you huff 

“Your mom called, she wanted to know if-...” he cuts you mid sentence 

“I know, she called me earlier, since you can't leave even a text” you scoff 

“Go to hell Namjoon” he smiles and grabs his coat on the door 

“Already there babe” a loud thud leaves you alone in that big house again. 

Your day is filled with the reminiscence of the memories from the amazing night he gave you. You have a smile like no other, and as the night arrives, you're back at your house. He texted the address of a nice restaurant, you hear the front door, and your husband appears at your dorm.

“going somewhere?” he grins, and you find that… odd

“not like you care” you answer bitterly, and he chuckles 

“you wouldn't like to be messing with your perfect reputation, are you?” You chuckle this time 

“stop acting like you even care about me, ‘m out” you leave, and his words are a muffled sound as you walk away, you won't allow him to walk you like that ever again. 

The restaurant is further away than what you had in mind, but everything looks perfect as you arrive, there is a host welcoming you and you realize as the host walks you to his reservation that every table is inside a room, you couldn't hear nothing more than the sounds of your heels hitting the floor. 

A slide door opens, and Jungkook has a rose in his hands as he welcomes you inside. He gives you a peck on your cheek, and you feel the heat coming through them. 

“You look beautiful, angel” you smile and sit down. The host has long been gone, and as you too chat about your day, a waitress comes in 

Jungkook orders, asks you if that's okay with you and you nod in agreement, the fact that he's so considerate about you, he cares about your opinion, and overall he just seems so good to be true. 

The night goes smoothly, you laugh and be touchy with him all the time, around his chest, his back, his hands, and he does the same with you. It is an impossible task to try and keep your hands to yourselves.  

“Is there a way I can have you tonight?” you giggle as he caresses your back, the wine in your system has you dizzy enough

“ ‘m here” he chuckles, you're sitting besides each other and yet, he pulls you to his lap, his hot breath on your neck and his hands are on your waist.

“You know what I meant gorgeous” you shake your head in denial and he kisses the gap between your neck and your shoulder, your body shivers. 

“I do know, nevertheless, ‘m not positive this is a great idea” he nods, kissing your neck and stealing a sigh from you 

“Don't think about it, do you like me?” you lock gaze with him and nod “Then just do it” you cover your face for a second, unsure of how this will impact in your future, his warm hands take yours out of your temple “ can't force you into wanting this but” his hands pull you to him, his hot breath now on your breasts as he leans for a kiss on your skin “I think that you shouldn't think about good or bad, but what actually makes you feel something” you nod and pull him into a needy kiss, his lips are always soft and his breath smells to wine, his cologne is intoxicating every reasonable thought in your brain. 

After that night, many more had come, for a week you've been seeing him in motels and the restaurant, he texts you how much he misses you during the day, and he fucks you dumb at night just so you won't miss him that much the next morning–which you actually do–Two long weeks now and for this one night you can't see him, your husband hosts a party at you house and you have to attend.

You wear a beautiful champagne dress with your hair up and every guest gives you compliments as you walk through the room. Your husband has you from the waist as you try to smile to the guests he's going on and on about how gorgeous you are, and how he feels he won the lottery–all lies of course– the night goes smoothly, at midnight almost everyone is out, your husband is holding hands with a pretty young woman, he's too drunk to even care about being watched, you say goodbye to your guests as you see them walk off, to your bed. You follow them, the girl giggles at some stupid joke he just made, you hear the door opening and you rush yourself to not let them use the bed you're sleeping in tonight. 

“Namjoon, you better not be planning on fucking her on my bed” he scoffs

“It's also my bed, so I do what I'm pleased” you sigh, grabbing the girl from her arm and pulling her beside you 

“Leave, both of you” she looks scared and you try to look calm to her, she nods and walks away as your husband stands and push you “You didn't just do that to me” 

“You always ruin my fun” you scoff

“Namjoon, just take the guests room, and get away from me” 

“I thought that by giving you someone to fuck you'll be more accessible” your breath stucks on your throat, you look at him perplexed at his words

“What do you mean?” he looks at you 

“You actually believed that a young handsome man would wanna fuck you for free?” he spits and you shake your head in denial 

he wouldn't, would he?

“You're too old for that” he chuckles and your blood boils in anger. 

“Leave” he scoffs “you can't hear me? leave!” he stands  and walks towards you

“you'll regret this” he walks past you and leaves your house.

you cry your eyes out all night until the sun travels to your eyes making you wake up, your phone is buzzing, the name of your mother on the screen and after a long sigh you answer.

“can you explain to me why Namjoon’s mother just called me all hysterical?”

“well mother hello to you too, good morning” you huff

“This is a serious matter [name] they’ve been our friends since high school”

“So, you're telling me that she’ll stop being your friend just because I don't wanna continue being married to his stupid son?” You scoff

“no! is not that, but… we have a business they are our biggest investor, we could…”

“if this is ‘bout money, I have money” she sighs, and your doorbell announces a guest “gotta go mom”

when you open the door, you wouldn't expect it to be Jungkook, messy hair and heavy breaths, and that desperate look on his eyes… It is also filled with guilt 

“Am I welcome in?” You lift an eyebrow in response 

“Why should I let you in?” You scoff, and his soft features soften at your harsh tone 

“listen, I know that idiot made me look…”  

“just as an idiot, such as him” he nods at your interruption 

“ ‘m aware, but please listen and understand me” 

“I shouldn't” he nods in response and gazes at you with his big doe eyes

“but please…” you sigh and let him in. You close the door behind him, and as soon as your hands are free, he holds them. “he did offered me money, we had a deal… and ‘m a stupid college student with two part time jobs he sweetened his deal” you don't talk, you only gaze upon him in disbelief “he told me to get you to bed and then he'll give me the money” 

“how much?” he shake his head in deny 

“I didn't got a penny from him” you look surprise 

“but you…” 

“I wanted you to feel the same way I felt by meeting you, you changed me, changed my view of the world, my life wouldn't be the same without you” his words sound sincere and his desperate look makes you believe in him

“he said…” your voice gets muffled by his lips, he holds and cups your face and waist closer to him

“Angel… please believe me” he kisses you once more, gently and caressing your blushed cheek 

“I dunno Jungkook, I'm older than you and…” he scoffs

“You're only like eight years older than me and I really don’ care ‘bout that” you chuckle 

“ ‘m only twenty eight Koo” he chuckles

“see? even better, and yes, keep calling me that” you chuckle as you give in to his embrace 

“I was thinking maybe calling you… love” he hugs you closer, the strands of hair touches your face and his hot breath lights something within you 

“You believe me?” you nod, even if Namjoon has told you something he's always looking for a way to hurt you, Jungkook kisses you once more and you feel like melted ice cream into his arms, your hands try to grip from his shoulders as the kiss deepens his hands wander around your back till one of his arms helps you from the knee for him to carry you to the bedroom–by your directions– You're quite unsure of the moment, you've only decided to believe in him, this is still being in an affair, he's still that young man and anxiety kicks in. his lips and hands undressed you as he kissed every inch of skin he found. 

“Is everything okay doll?” you nod and he stops his movements “you don't seem good” you sigh 

“I don’ wanna think ‘bout that now” you kiss him and pull his shirt and notice a playful grin on his lips, he’s so husky and big for a man his age, you caress his soft and warm body as the rest of the clothes that remain on each of you leaves your body. 

You don’t care, it has only been two or three weeks. You know your feelings are true and even if he doesn’t feel it in the same intensity you can enjoy it while it lasts.

Soon his mouth found the way to your dripping cunt he licks and sucks in the way he knows you'll see stars sooner than later. your hands grip to the sheets while saccharine moans escape your breath as his tongue rides you along your orgasm. He licks off the rest of the juices that left your pussy and he hums in content at the sight of it, you're drunk of his features, of his husky body embracing you closer to slide his cock along your folds, with a pant and a moan from him as he slides inside your walls his thrust are slow and his gaze is

fixated on you, the way you are hugging him closer and your hot breath is on his ear as his movements become faster and harder. 

“You feel so good doll…” he moans as your nails grip his back youre leaving mark for sure and he doesnt care at this point, he loves how desperate you sound as he fuck you dumb. his hands are between your ears and the silver chain moves along him, he’s so dreamy you wanna make sure you're awake to be feeling this way, to be so filled with him. 

Jungkook pulls away from your body but his pace doesn't change, now his thumb caresses the nub of nerves to pull you into another orgasm, only the sound of your skin crashing each other's body fills the room. He praises at your moans, at the way you call his name in a desperate mewl. You need him deeper if that's even possible. You need him to fill you up and as he continues you soon reach another orgasm as he, with a guttural moan fills your cunt with his cum. You're dripping while he enjoys seeing the way your hole clenches in search of his cock once more, as if its never enough, cause its not. He gets up to dress again, you cover yourself with your favorite silk robe as the door opens and your husband gasps in surprise.

“You… whore…” he attempts to reach you, but Jungkook quickly steps up in front of you, he’s only in pants and you notice the way he’s almost bursting in anger.

“Don’t call her that” he’s voice is harsh and almost too deep

“And who do you think you are kid?” he tries to push him, but Jungkook doesn’t move 

“C’mon Namjoon, don’ do this” he gasps and step away

“You fucked in my bed and you have the audacity to ask me not to do things” you scoff

“You've done it too, many, many times, and I just got tired of your cheating ass” he huffs

“I’ll ruin you” you scoff and step up from behind Jungkook “And your family too” you scoff at his intent to try to intimidate you

“Leave my house” you say in response, he gasps and tries to grab your arm “Aint saying things twice Namjoon”

“You'll never see the end of this” you huff as he turns and close the door while he leaves

He can’t scare you anymore, you made sure to have things your way, to have most things under your name and his attempts of threat would go unnoticed. Jungkook hugs you when he notices the way your body trembles, he kisses your forehead as he sits on the bed with you on his lap.

You sigh, feeling relief and warmth within you from the man holding you dearly. He hums in your ear as you calm down, you know you want to be with him, for real and as long as he lets you.

“Jungkook?” he gaze you and nods 

“Yes princess?” you sigh fidgeting your fingers

“Can we… date?” he huffs

“No, I'm supposed to ask you that!” he holds you by your waist, closer to his body “Date me [name]” you nod and giggle at his question 

“You're not… unsure, given how everything went between us?” he shakes his head in deny

“No princess, I wanna be with you, doesn't matter how things were” your heart beats with joy “Sometimes you gotta cheat your way through”

masterlist

©️bangytell please do not copy or steal my work, any translation can’t be done this is the only way to read it.

[hey-syia]

Between The Lines

Pairing: Kim Mingyu x fem!reader

Genre: office au, office romance, angst, strangers(?) to lovers, Co-workers to Lovers, fluff towards the end

Summary: Y/n faces unexpected turmoil as she discovers that her new collaboration partner in the office is none other than Kim Mingyu, a figure from her college past associated with painful rumors. As they navigate their professional collaboration, Mingyu's persistent attempts to break through Y/n's guarded demeanor unravel a history of misunderstandings and hurtful rumors.

Warnings: slow burn-ish, reader is bullied in college, puckering of lips against each other, let me know if I missed anything

Word Count: ~3k

My main masterlist

A/N: Happy Carat's Day! This is my first ever fic and I am not sure how this will go. This story is just an idea that has been in my drafts for ages. I hope you like it! Cross-posting it here cause my other account is pretty new and this is not showing up in search results

The harsh hum of the photocopier and the distant murmur of office life formed the backdrop as I stared at my screen, which had just received a notification of an email. The subject line sent a ripple of anticipation through me: "Collaboration Partner Assignment."

Opening the email, my eyes quickly scanned the details. I braced myself for the revelation, but nothing could have prepared me for the name that leaped off the screen – Kim Mingyu. My stomach churned, though I couldn't pinpoint why. Maybe it was the mounting pressure of the project or the unfamiliarity of working with someone from another company. A wave of discomfort washed over me as memories of college days resurfaced, memories I had long buried because of the same name! But it couldn’t be him, right?

I had hoped to leave the shadows of the past behind, but fate had different plans. Mingyu, a name that had once been sY/nonymous with popularity and my own insecurities, was now set to become an integral part of my professional life.

Navigating the familiar hallways towards the designated meeting room, my steps carried the weight of unspoken history. The door creaked open, revealing Mingyu already seated, his eyes lifting from a set of project documents to meet mine. A knowing smile played on his lips, oblivious to the turmoil brewing within me. It was him, Kim Mingyu!

"Y/n, right?" he said, extending a hand in greeting. "I'm Mingyu. Looks like we're going to be partners on this project."

I hesitated for a moment before accepting the handshake. "Yes, Y/n. Nice to meet you."

The sterile hum of the office's fluorescent lights set the stage for a reunion neither of us had anticipated. Mingyu, a name echoing through the corridors of my past, now sat across from me in a conference room. His smile seemed to mock my silent discomfort, reminiscent of college days where he effortlessly commanded popularity, and I existed on the fringes.

"Ready to dive into this project together?" Mingyu's voice snapped me back to the present, his expression oblivious to the tumult of memories that threatened to overwhelm me.

"Sure," I replied, my voice masking the unease within. The corporate battleground was familiar, but the arrival of Mingyu resurrected a dormant storm.

As we settled into the collaborative routine, Mingyu's attempts to get to know me became increasingly apparent. In team meetings, he'd throw casual questions my way, trying to unearth the person behind the professional facade.

"So, Y/n, any exciting plans for the weekend?" he'd ask, a playful twinkle in his eye.

"Same as always," I'd reply, nonchalant. I wasn't one to divulge personal details easily.

But Mingyu was persistent, undeterred by my guarded responses. "Come on, Y/n, there must be something you enjoy doing outside of work. Hobbies? Interests?"

His inquiry probed deeper than the surface, seeking to unravel the layers I had meticulously wrapped around myself. "Not really," I'd brush off, maintaining a stoic demeanour.

In the break room, he'd invite me to join him for a coffee, hoping to chip away at the walls I'd built. "Coffee break, Y/n? It's on me," he'd offer, a friendly smile playing on his lips.

"Thanks, but I prefer working through breaks," I'd decline, my gaze fixed on the computer screen.

Mingyu, always the optimist, remained undeterred by my cool demeanour. "Alright, next time then," he'd say, masking any disappointment that might have lingered beneath the surface.

Our interactions, or lack thereof, became a dance of casual questions met with guarded replies. It wasn't that I didn't notice Mingyu's efforts – I did. The truth was, I had carefully crafted my isolation, and I wasn't eager to let anyone in.

One day, as we reviewed project details, Mingyu tried a different approach. "Y/n, we make a good team, you know? But it would be even better if we understood each other a bit more. What do you say?"

His words held a sincerity that caught me off guard. Maybe it was the vulnerability in his eyes or the genuine desire to bridge the gap. I sighed, relenting just a bit. "Look, Mingyu, it's nothing personal. I'm just here to get the job done."

He nodded, understanding but undeterred. "Fair enough, Y/n. I respect that. Just know, I'm here if you ever want to talk."

The unspoken hurt lingered beneath the surface, but Mingyu never let it show. His attempts to befriend me continued, even if they were met with my persistent nonchalance.

In another attempt to connect, he invited me to a team dinner. "Y/n, we've been working together for a while now. Let's celebrate our progress. What do you say?"

I hesitated, then finally relented, "Fine, but just for a little while."

As the evening unfolded, I found myself in an unexpected situation – Mingyu's infectious charm gradually wearing down my defences. We laughed, shared stories, and for a brief moment, the professional barriers faded.

In the midst of the camaraderie, Mingyu leaned in and said, "See, Y/n? We're not that different after all."

I couldn't help but smile, the walls I had so carefully constructed showing signs of cracking. Mingyu's efforts were slowly paying off, breaking through the layers that shielded me from the world.

As we left the restaurant that night, I couldn't deny the shift in dynamics. Mingyu, once an unwelcome intruder from the past, had become a persistent presence in my present – a presence I was starting to appreciate, even if I wasn't quite ready to admit it.

The echoes of our team dinner lingered in the air as Mingyu and I left the restaurant. Laughter and camaraderie had briefly bridged the gap, but as we stepped back into the office building, I retreated into my familiar shell. The nonchalant exterior was my armour, and I wore it with practised ease.

Days passed, and Mingyu's efforts to break through my walls persisted, but my responses remained unchanged – short, guarded, and distant. The unspoken hurt beneath his eyes grew more evident with each interaction, until one day, frustration etched across his face.

As I sat at my desk, engrossed in my work, Mingyu approached, a determined expression on his face. "Y/n, we need to talk. Meet me in the meeting room in fifteen minutes," he said, his voice carrying a firmness I hadn't heard before.

I raised an eyebrow, caught off guard by the sudden shift in his demeanour. "Sure, whatever," I replied, my tone as indifferent as ever.

The meeting room, a neutral ground for professional discussions, now became the stage for an unexpected confrontation. As I entered, Mingyu was already there, his arms crossed, and a look of frustration etched across his features.

"What's your deal, Y/n?" he began, his voice tinged with a mix of anger and hurt. "I've been trying to get to know you, to be a good teammate, but every attempt is met with this... this wall you've built. What are you so afraid of?"

I sighed, my nonchalant facade momentarily faltering. "Mingyu, I'm not afraid of anything. I'm just here to work, not make friends."

His frustration bubbled to the surface. "You don't have to make it so difficult, Y/n. We're part of the same team, working towards the same goal. Why can't we at least get along?"

I leaned back in my chair, the familiar defences back in place. "Getting along is not a requirement for getting the job done."

Mingyu's eyes flashed with a mix of anger and disappointment. "It's not just about the job, Y/n. We spend a significant portion of our lives working together. Why make it miserable for both of us?"

His words struck a chord, a brief pang of guilt flickering within me. But I couldn't let him see it. "Mingyu, I have my reasons for keeping things professional. Let's just focus on the project and leave it at that."

He leaned in, his frustration giving way to a determination that mirrored the spark in his eyes. "Fine, Y/n. If that's how you want it, we'll keep it strictly professional. But know that it doesn't have to be this way."

Mingyu's proposal hung in the air, and for a moment, I considered the possibility of a truce – a ceasefire in the silent war that had defined our collaboration. The weight of his words pressed upon me, and I decided to break the stoic facade, if only for a moment.

"Fine," I responded, my tone betraying a hint of resignation. "Let's keep it professional."

As the days passed, our interactions adhered to the newfound agreement. Work discussions unfolded without the previous tension, and the strained atmosphere began to ease. However, beneath the surface, the unspoken distance lingered, a reminder of the unresolved history that bound us.

Late one evening, as the office lights flickered in the waning hours, Mingyu and I found ourselves alone in the workspace. The hum of computers and distant traffic outside seemed to amplify the silence between us. Mingyu broke the quiet, his voice softer than before.

"Y/n, there's something I need to know. The tension between us... is it just about work, or is there something more?" His gaze bore into mine, a silent plea for honesty.

I hesitated, contemplating whether to unravel the layers that guarded my past. In that moment, I decided to breach the unspoken barrier. "It's not just about work, Mingyu. There's history – a rumour that tainted my college years, and I believed you were behind it."

His eyes widened, a mix of surprise and realisation flickering across his features. "Rumour? What rumour are you talking about?"

College, a realm of possibilities, unfolded before me. Amid vibrant campus life, I preferred solitude, finding solace in the quiet corners of the library. My routine, a sanctuary, was disrupted when a rumor about me and Mingyu, the campus heartthrob, began to circulate.

Whispers painted a false picture – a rejected proposal, a scornful comment. The rumor, like wildfire, labeled me as the girl who dared to confess, only to face ridicule. My once-unnoticed existence transformed into isolation as judgmental gazes and hurtful labels became my companions.

The most painful aspect was the misunderstanding – the lie that branded me a loner, rejected and ridiculed. The library, my refuge, now felt like a glass house, the rumor exposing me to the harsh scrutiny of others.

Mingyu, oblivious to the storm, continued his life, while I bore the weight of fabricated rejection. The rumor, a dark shadow, cast a long-lasting mark on my college experience. The isolation, self-imposed or not, became my reality.

"The one where it was said I proposed to you in college, and you rejected me, saying you'd never date a loner like me," I confessed, my voice holding the weight of years of perceived betrayal.

Mingyu's expression shifted from surprise to understanding, a furrow forming on his brow. "Y/n, I never spread that rumor. In fact, I had no idea it existed until now. In fact, I wanted to be friends with you back then and expressed it to some of my friends!"

My defenses faltered as the revelation sank in. The narrative I had carried for years, the resentment that fueled our strained collaboration, crumbled like a fragile facade. "But... why would someone spread such a thing?"

Mingyu's eyes softened with sincerity. "I don't know, Y/n. But I promise you, it wasn't me. I regret that you went through that, and I wish I could've been there to clarify things."

The weight of the misunderstanding hung heavy in the room. Mingyu's admission brought forth a vulnerability I hadn't expected, and the unspoken tension that defined our collaboration began to unravel. As we navigate the murky waters of our shared history, the silence transformed into a hesitant dialogue.

"Maybe," he began, choosing his words carefully, "we can move past this together. Start anew, without the burden of misunderstandings."

In the quiet office, Mingyu and I shared a moment where words seemed unnecessary. His hand found mine, a gentle intertwining of fingers that spoke volumes. Leaning in, he kissed me with a tenderness that felt like an unspoken apology.

The kiss was slow, each movement deliberate, as if time itself had slowed down. Mingyu's lips met mine in a dance of connection, a soft exploration that conveyed a shared understanding. It wasn't just a kiss; it was a promise – a promise to let go of the past and embrace the possibility of something new.

As our lips lingered in the gentle exchange, the weight of misunderstandings lifted. Mingyu's touch, comforting and sincere, became a bridge that spanned the distance between us.

The air shifted after the shared kiss, the unspoken tension replaced by a newfound understanding. Mingyu, eyes reflecting a mixture of vulnerability and sincerity, gently pulled away, creating a space for words to bridge the lingering gap.

"Y/n," he began, his voice carrying the weight of unspoken sentiments, "there's something I'd like to propose."

I met his gaze, a silent invitation to continue.

"How about we take a step into the present? Leave the office behind for a while, just you and me. What do you say to a dinner? A date, maybe?" Mingyu's words hung in the air, a simple yet profound invitation.

The corners of my lips twitched into a hesitant smile, the remnants of the emotional whirlwind we had just weathered. "A date?" I echoed, the word carrying a hint of both surprise and curiosity.

Mingyu nodded, his eyes holding a hopeful gleam. "Yes, a date. No work, no misunderstandings – just two people sharing a meal and getting to know each other beyond the confines of the office."

The idea, once foreign, now seemed like a welcome proposition. A chance to rewrite the script, explore the uncharted territories of this evolving connection. "I suppose a dinner sounds nice," I conceded, the tension replaced by a sense of openness.

His face broke into a radiant smile, the lines of relief and excitement mingling. "Great! How about tomorrow night? I know a place not far from here. Casual, nothing too fancy. What do you think?"

Tomorrow night – a prospect that carried the promise of a fresh beginning. I found myself nodding, the corners of my own lips forming a genuine smile. "Tomorrow night sounds good."

Mingyu's joy was palpable, and as he pulled out his phone to exchange details, the office surroundings seemed to fade into the background. In the quiet aftermath of a shared kiss, the invitation extended marked a turning point – a step away from the weight of the past and into the possibilities of the present.

As we finalised the plans, Mingyu's gaze held a promise – a promise of a date that transcended the ordinary, a date that hinted at the potential for something more. The unspoken tension that had defined our collaboration was replaced by the anticipation of a shared meal, laughter, and the uncharted journey that lay ahead.

[dinodontwait]

Between the Lines

Pairing: Kim Mingyu x fem!reader

Genre: office au, office romance, angst, strangers(?) to lovers, C-workers to Lovers, fluff towards the end

Summary: Y/n faces unexpected turmoil as she discovers that her new collaboration partner in the office is none other than Kim Mingyu, a figure from her college past associated with painful rumors. As they navigate their professional collaboration, Mingyu's persistent attempts to break through Y/n's guarded demeanor unravel a history of misunderstandings and hurtful rumors.

Warnings: slow burn-ish, reader is bullied in college, puckering of lips against each other, let me know if I missed anything

Word Count: ~3k

A/N: Happy Carat's Day! This is my first ever fic and I am not sure how this will go. This story is just an idea that has been in my drafts for ages. I hope you like it!

The harsh hum of the photocopier and the distant murmur of office life formed the backdrop as I stared at my screen, which had just received a notification of an email. The subject line sent a ripple of anticipation through me: "Collaboration Partner Assignment."

Opening the email, my eyes quickly scanned the details. I braced myself for the revelation, but nothing could have prepared me for the name that leaped off the screen – Kim Mingyu. My stomach churned, though I couldn't pinpoint why. Maybe it was the mounting pressure of the project or the unfamiliarity of working with someone from another company. A wave of discomfort washed over me as memories of college days resurfaced, memories I had long buried because of the same name! But it couldn’t be him, right?

I had hoped to leave the shadows of the past behind, but fate had different plans. Mingyu, a name that had once been sY/nonymous with popularity and my own insecurities, was now set to become an integral part of my professional life.

Navigating the familiar hallways towards the designated meeting room, my steps carried the weight of unspoken history. The door creaked open, revealing Mingyu already seated, his eyes lifting from a set of project documents to meet mine. A knowing smile played on his lips, oblivious to the turmoil brewing within me. It was him, Kim Mingyu!

"Y/n, right?" he said, extending a hand in greeting. "I'm Mingyu. Looks like we're going to be partners on this project."

I hesitated for a moment before accepting the handshake. "Yes, Y/n. Nice to meet you."

The sterile hum of the office's fluorescent lights set the stage for a reunion neither of us had anticipated. Mingyu, a name echoing through the corridors of my past, now sat across from me in a conference room. His smile seemed to mock my silent discomfort, reminiscent of college days where he effortlessly commanded popularity, and I existed on the fringes.

"Ready to dive into this project together?" Mingyu's voice snapped me back to the present, his expression oblivious to the tumult of memories that threatened to overwhelm me.

"Sure," I replied, my voice masking the unease within. The corporate battleground was familiar, but the arrival of Mingyu resurrected a dormant storm.

As we settled into the collaborative routine, Mingyu's attempts to get to know me became increasingly apparent. In team meetings, he'd throw casual questions my way, trying to unearth the person behind the professional facade.

"So, Y/n, any exciting plans for the weekend?" he'd ask, a playful twinkle in his eye.

"Same as always," I'd reply, nonchalant. I wasn't one to divulge personal details easily.

But Mingyu was persistent, undeterred by my guarded responses. "Come on, Y/n, there must be something you enjoy doing outside of work. Hobbies? Interests?"

His inquiry probed deeper than the surface, seeking to unravel the layers I had meticulously wrapped around myself. "Not really," I'd brush off, maintaining a stoic demeanour.

In the break room, he'd invite me to join him for a coffee, hoping to chip away at the walls I'd built. "Coffee break, Y/n? It's on me," he'd offer, a friendly smile playing on his lips.

"Thanks, but I prefer working through breaks," I'd decline, my gaze fixed on the computer screen.

Mingyu, always the optimist, remained undeterred by my cool demeanour. "Alright, next time then," he'd say, masking any disappointment that might have lingered beneath the surface.

Our interactions, or lack thereof, became a dance of casual questions met with guarded replies. It wasn't that I didn't notice Mingyu's efforts – I did. The truth was, I had carefully crafted my isolation, and I wasn't eager to let anyone in.

One day, as we reviewed project details, Mingyu tried a different approach. "Y/n, we make a good team, you know? But it would be even better if we understood each other a bit more. What do you say?"

His words held a sincerity that caught me off guard. Maybe it was the vulnerability in his eyes or the genuine desire to bridge the gap. I sighed, relenting just a bit. "Look, Mingyu, it's nothing personal. I'm just here to get the job done."

He nodded, understanding but undeterred. "Fair enough, Y/n. I respect that. Just know, I'm here if you ever want to talk."

The unspoken hurt lingered beneath the surface, but Mingyu never let it show. His attempts to befriend me continued, even if they were met with my persistent nonchalance.

In another attempt to connect, he invited me to a team dinner. "Y/n, we've been working together for a while now. Let's celebrate our progress. What do you say?"

I hesitated, then finally relented, "Fine, but just for a little while."

As the evening unfolded, I found myself in an unexpected situation – Mingyu's infectious charm gradually wearing down my defences. We laughed, shared stories, and for a brief moment, the professional barriers faded.

In the midst of the camaraderie, Mingyu leaned in and said, "See, Y/n? We're not that different after all."

I couldn't help but smile, the walls I had so carefully constructed showing signs of cracking. Mingyu's efforts were slowly paying off, breaking through the layers that shielded me from the world.

As we left the restaurant that night, I couldn't deny the shift in dynamics. Mingyu, once an unwelcome intruder from the past, had become a persistent presence in my present – a presence I was starting to appreciate, even if I wasn't quite ready to admit it.

The echoes of our team dinner lingered in the air as Mingyu and I left the restaurant. Laughter and camaraderie had briefly bridged the gap, but as we stepped back into the office building, I retreated into my familiar shell. The nonchalant exterior was my armour, and I wore it with practised ease.

Days passed, and Mingyu's efforts to break through my walls persisted, but my responses remained unchanged – short, guarded, and distant. The unspoken hurt beneath his eyes grew more evident with each interaction, until one day, frustration etched across his face.

As I sat at my desk, engrossed in my work, Mingyu approached, a determined expression on his face. "Y/n, we need to talk. Meet me in the meeting room in fifteen minutes," he said, his voice carrying a firmness I hadn't heard before.

I raised an eyebrow, caught off guard by the sudden shift in his demeanour. "Sure, whatever," I replied, my tone as indifferent as ever.

The meeting room, a neutral ground for professional discussions, now became the stage for an unexpected confrontation. As I entered, Mingyu was already there, his arms crossed, and a look of frustration etched across his features.

"What's your deal, Y/n?" he began, his voice tinged with a mix of anger and hurt. "I've been trying to get to know you, to be a good teammate, but every attempt is met with this... this wall you've built. What are you so afraid of?"

I sighed, my nonchalant facade momentarily faltering. "Mingyu, I'm not afraid of anything. I'm just here to work, not make friends."

His frustration bubbled to the surface. "You don't have to make it so difficult, Y/n. We're part of the same team, working towards the same goal. Why can't we at least get along?"

I leaned back in my chair, the familiar defences back in place. "Getting along is not a requirement for getting the job done."

Mingyu's eyes flashed with a mix of anger and disappointment. "It's not just about the job, Y/n. We spend a significant portion of our lives working together. Why make it miserable for both of us?"

His words struck a chord, a brief pang of guilt flickering within me. But I couldn't let him see it. "Mingyu, I have my reasons for keeping things professional. Let's just focus on the project and leave it at that."

He leaned in, his frustration giving way to a determination that mirrored the spark in his eyes. "Fine, Y/n. If that's how you want it, we'll keep it strictly professional. But know that it doesn't have to be this way."

Mingyu's proposal hung in the air, and for a moment, I considered the possibility of a truce – a ceasefire in the silent war that had defined our collaboration. The weight of his words pressed upon me, and I decided to break the stoic facade, if only for a moment.

"Fine," I responded, my tone betraying a hint of resignation. "Let's keep it professional."

As the days passed, our interactions adhered to the newfound agreement. Work discussions unfolded without the previous tension, and the strained atmosphere began to ease. However, beneath the surface, the unspoken distance lingered, a reminder of the unresolved history that bound us.

Late one evening, as the office lights flickered in the waning hours, Mingyu and I found ourselves alone in the workspace. The hum of computers and distant traffic outside seemed to amplify the silence between us. Mingyu broke the quiet, his voice softer than before.

"Y/n, there's something I need to know. The tension between us... is it just about work, or is there something more?" His gaze bore into mine, a silent plea for honesty.

I hesitated, contemplating whether to unravel the layers that guarded my past. In that moment, I decided to breach the unspoken barrier. "It's not just about work, Mingyu. There's history – a rumour that tainted my college years, and I believed you were behind it."

His eyes widened, a mix of surprise and realisation flickering across his features. "Rumour? What rumour are you talking about?"

College, a realm of possibilities, unfolded before me. Amid vibrant campus life, I preferred solitude, finding solace in the quiet corners of the library. My routine, a sanctuary, was disrupted when a rumor about me and Mingyu, the campus heartthrob, began to circulate.

Whispers painted a false picture – a rejected proposal, a scornful comment. The rumor, like wildfire, labeled me as the girl who dared to confess, only to face ridicule. My once-unnoticed existence transformed into isolation as judgmental gazes and hurtful labels became my companions.

The most painful aspect was the misunderstanding – the lie that branded me a loner, rejected and ridiculed. The library, my refuge, now felt like a glass house, the rumor exposing me to the harsh scrutiny of others.

Mingyu, oblivious to the storm, continued his life, while I bore the weight of fabricated rejection. The rumor, a dark shadow, cast a long-lasting mark on my college experience. The isolation, self-imposed or not, became my reality.

"The one where it was said I proposed to you in college, and you rejected me, saying you'd never date a loner like me," I confessed, my voice holding the weight of years of perceived betrayal.

Mingyu's expression shifted from surprise to understanding, a furrow forming on his brow. "Y/n, I never spread that rumor. In fact, I had no idea it existed until now. In fact, I wanted to be friends with you back then and expressed it to some of my friends!"

My defenses faltered as the revelation sank in. The narrative I had carried for years, the resentment that fueled our strained collaboration, crumbled like a fragile facade. "But... why would someone spread such a thing?"

Mingyu's eyes softened with sincerity. "I don't know, Y/n. But I promise you, it wasn't me. I regret that you went through that, and I wish I could've been there to clarify things."

The weight of the misunderstanding hung heavy in the room. Mingyu's admission brought forth a vulnerability I hadn't expected, and the unspoken tension that defined our collaboration began to unravel. As we navigate the murky waters of our shared history, the silence transformed into a hesitant dialogue.

"Maybe," he began, choosing his words carefully, "we can move past this together. Start anew, without the burden of misunderstandings."

In the quiet office, Mingyu and I shared a moment where words seemed unnecessary. His hand found mine, a gentle intertwining of fingers that spoke volumes. Leaning in, he kissed me with a tenderness that felt like an unspoken apology.

The kiss was slow, each movement deliberate, as if time itself had slowed down. Mingyu's lips met mine in a dance of connection, a soft exploration that conveyed a shared understanding. It wasn't just a kiss; it was a promise – a promise to let go of the past and embrace the possibility of something new.

As our lips lingered in the gentle exchange, the weight of misunderstandings lifted. Mingyu's touch, comforting and sincere, became a bridge that spanned the distance between us.

The air shifted after the shared kiss, the unspoken tension replaced by a newfound understanding. Mingyu, eyes reflecting a mixture of vulnerability and sincerity, gently pulled away, creating a space for words to bridge the lingering gap.

"Y/n," he began, his voice carrying the weight of unspoken sentiments, "there's something I'd like to propose."

I met his gaze, a silent invitation to continue.

"How about we take a step into the present? Leave the office behind for a while, just you and me. What do you say to a dinner? A date, maybe?" Mingyu's words hung in the air, a simple yet profound invitation.

The corners of my lips twitched into a hesitant smile, the remnants of the emotional whirlwind we had just weathered. "A date?" I echoed, the word carrying a hint of both surprise and curiosity.

Mingyu nodded, his eyes holding a hopeful gleam. "Yes, a date. No work, no misunderstandings – just two people sharing a meal and getting to know each other beyond the confines of the office."

The idea, once foreign, now seemed like a welcome proposition. A chance to rewrite the script, explore the uncharted territories of this evolving connection. "I suppose a dinner sounds nice," I conceded, the tension replaced by a sense of openness.

His face broke into a radiant smile, the lines of relief and excitement mingling. "Great! How about tomorrow night? I know a place not far from here. Casual, nothing too fancy. What do you think?"

Tomorrow night – a prospect that carried the promise of a fresh beginning. I found myself nodding, the corners of my own lips forming a genuine smile. "Tomorrow night sounds good."

Mingyu's joy was palpable, and as he pulled out his phone to exchange details, the office surroundings seemed to fade into the background. In the quiet aftermath of a shared kiss, the invitation extended marked a turning point – a step away from the weight of the past and into the possibilities of the present.

As we finalised the plans, Mingyu's gaze held a promise – a promise of a date that transcended the ordinary, a date that hinted at the potential for something more. The unspoken tension that had defined our collaboration was replaced by the anticipation of a shared meal, laughter, and the uncharted journey that lay ahead.

[songbirdseung]

moments / kim sunoo

synopsis: just random fluff moments with your favorite person

pairing: kim sunoo x reader

warnings: tooth rotting sweetness, written in 3rd person

wc: 2.9k

Here's to my sunoo stans who don't get the justive they deserve

"Is there any moments that are your favorite?" the interviewer asking sunoo, hoping to get any information on sunoo's relationship that was just announced to the public.

"I love every moment I get to have with yn but if I had to name a few..." that's when he started to go into his own little world and reminisce on the times he's had with you.

I. Questioning Your Relationship:

Yn sat on the grassy hill, the sun shining brightly overhead as a light breeze played with their hair. Lost in the melody of "Never Gonna Give You Up," they hummed the tune, unaware of Sunoo's approach until he sat down beside them.

"What was it that made me fall for you, again?" Sunoo asked, a playful smile tugging at his lips.

Yn paused their humming, turning to look at him with a grin. "My undeniable charm and dazzling wit, of course."

Sunoo chuckled, reaching over to intertwine their fingers. "I think it might've been your terrible taste in music."

Yn gasped in mock offense, nudging him playfully. "Hey, Rick Astley is a classic!"

"True," Sunoo conceded, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to Yn's cheek. "But I think I fell for you because of moments like this, just being together, enjoying the simple things."

Yn felt their heart swell with affection, leaning into his touch. "Well, get ready for a lifetime of terrible music and simple moments, because I'm never gonna give you up."

Sunoo laughed, pulling Yn closer. "I wouldn't have it any other way."

II. You Feel Like Home

On their anniversary, Yn decided to surprise Sunoo with a homemade dinner, despite their usual lack of culinary expertise.

In the kitchen, pots and pans clattered as Yn attempted to follow the instructions, occasionally pausing to consult their phone or taste-test a sauce with a dubious expression. Sunoo, sensing the chaos from the living room, couldn't resist peeking in to see what was happening.

"What's cookin', good lookin'?" Sunoo teased, leaning against the doorway with a grin.

Yn turned, a faint blush dusting their cheeks. "Just attempting to make us a fancy dinner for our anniversary," they admitted sheepishly.

Sunoo's eyes softened with affection as he stepped closer, wrapping his arms around Yn from behind. "You didn't have to go through all this trouble, you know. Just being with you is special enough for me."

Yn leaned back into his embrace, smiling at his reflection in the kitchen window. "I know, but I wanted to do something special for you. Besides, how hard can cooking be, right?"

As the evening progressed, the kitchen filled with the aroma of their culinary experiment. Despite a few mishaps along the way, they managed to put together a meal that, while not quite gourmet, was made with love.

Sitting down at the table adorned with candles and flowers, Yn and Sunoo shared a laugh as they sampled their creation. It might not have been perfect, but in that moment, surrounded by warmth and affection, it was the most delicious meal they had ever tasted.

III. Where It All Started

Yn had been harboring a massive crush on Sunoo for what felt like forever. Every time they were around him, their heart raced, their palms grew sweaty, and coherent sentences seemed to flee from their mind. But despite their best efforts to flirt, they couldn't seem to muster up the courage to confess their feelings.

Fortunately, Yn had a group of friends who were not only aware of their crush but were also massive shippers of the potential romance.

One day, as Yn sat with the Enhypen in their favorite café, they couldn't resist stealing glances at Sunoo, who was engrossed in a book at the opposite end of the table.

Jake, ever observant, nudged Yn with a mischievous grin. "You should totally ask him to join you for a movie night this weekend. It's the perfect opportunity to cozy up together."

Sunghoon chimed in, "And you can make sure to pick a romantic movie. You know, to set the mood."

Jay added with a wink, "And don't forget the popcorn. Extra butter."

Yn blushed furiously, but they couldn't deny the appeal of the plan. With a nod of determination, they resolved to follow their friends' advice.

That weekend, armed with a carefully curated movie selection and an abundance of popcorn, Yn nervously invited Sunoo over for a movie night. To their relief, he accepted with a smile, and soon they found themselves snuggled up on the couch, bathed in the glow of the TV screen.

As the movie played, Yn stole glances at Sunoo, heart pounding in their chest. And to their delight, they noticed him mirroring their actions, his gaze lingering a little longer than usual.

IV. I Love You

Yn's heart raced as they gathered the courage to speak the words they had been holding back for so long.

"You know I love you, right?" they finally confessed, their voice barely above a whisper.

Sunoo's eyes softened, a fond smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "I hope so, otherwise this whole relationship will get really awkward," he replied, his tone teasing but filled with warmth.

With a contented sigh, they buried their face in the crook of Sunoo's neck, feeling a sense of peace settle over them.

V. My Support System

Sunoo sat hunched over his desk, the soft glow of his computer screen illuminating the darkened room. He had been up late, grappling with a particularly tricky melody for a new song, his thoughts a jumble of notes and lyrics.

Lost in his creative process, he was startled when he felt a gentle hand on his shoulder. Turning around, he saw Yn standing there, a comforting smile on their face as they held out a steaming cup of tea.

"I thought you might need a little pick-me-up," Yn said softly, their eyes filled with concern. "Thank you," he murmured, touched by Yn's thoughtfulness.

With a tender kiss on the top of his head, Yn settled into the chair beside him, offering their support without a word. Together, they worked side by side, Yn offering encouragement and feedback as Sunoo poured his heart and soul into the music.

Finally, as the first light of dawn began to peek through the curtains, Sunoo played the final notes of his song, a sense of accomplishment flooding through him. Turning to Yn, he couldn't help but smile, grateful for their unwavering support.

"Couldn't have done it without you," he said softly, his voice filled with gratitude. Yn smiled back, their eyes sparkling with pride. "Anytime," they replied.

VI. Furniture Shopping

Sunoo sighed as he surveyed the sorry state of his dorm's couch, its once sturdy frame now marred by broken legs thanks to the mischievous antics of his fellow members. With a resigned shake of his head, he turned to Yn, who had volunteered to help him pick out a replacement.

"Well, I guess it's time to go furniture shopping," Sunoo said with a wry smile, trying to make light of the situation.

And so, armed with a list of furniture stores, Sunoo and Yn set out on their quest. They wandered through showroom after showroom, testing out various couches of all shapes and sizes. Some were too stiff, others too lumpy, but finally, they stumbled upon the perfect one.

It was love at first sit. The couch was plush and inviting, with cushions so soft that they seemed to envelop them in a warm embrace. Sunoo and Yn sank into its depths, letting out simultaneous sighs of contentment.

"This is it," Sunoo declared, a grin spreading across his face as he leaned back against the cushions.

Yn nodded in agreement, their smile mirroring Sunoo's. "Definitely. It's like sitting on a cloud." For a moment, they simply sat there, enjoying the comfort of the new couch and the quiet companionship of each other.

VII. Accidents

Yn winced as they shifted on the couch, their ankle throbbing with pain despite the comforting weight of the cast encasing it. They had been laid up with a sprained ankle for what felt like an eternity, forced to rely on crutches to get around and feeling more than a little frustrated with their immobility.

Sunoo, ever the supportive boyfriend, sat beside them, a sympathetic expression on his face as he watched Yn struggle with their discomfort. Determined to lift their spirits, he reached for a marker and carefully began to doodle little hearts on Yn's cast.

"What are you doing?" Yn asked, their curiosity piqued by Sunoo's sudden burst of creativity.

"Just trying to make your cast a little more stylish," Sunoo replied with a grin, his hand moving deftly as he added more hearts to the design.

Yn couldn't help but smile at his efforts, the simple gesture warming their heart despite the pain in their ankle. As Sunoo continued to doodle, they leaned against him, grateful for his presence and the comfort of his touch.

"Thanks," Yn murmured, their voice soft with appreciation.

Sunoo glanced up from his artwork, his eyes meeting Yn's with a tender gaze. "Anything for you," he replied, his tone filled with sincerity.

VII. YN To The Rescue

Yn slipped out of bed, determined to satisfy Sunoo's hunger pangs. They quickly threw on a hoodie and sneakers, grabbing their keys and wallet before heading out into the cool night air.

The streets were quiet and deserted as Yn made their way to the nearest convenience store, their steps quickening with each passing minute. Finally, they reached their destination and hurried inside, scanning the aisles until they found what they were looking for: tteokbokki, Sunoo's favorite late-night snack.

Grabbing a few packs of the spicy rice cakes, Yn made their way to the checkout counter, their heart racing with anticipation. They couldn't wait to see the look of delight on Sunoo's face when they presented him with his beloved treat.

Minutes later, Yn returned home, the warm glow of the streetlights casting long shadows as they unlocked the door and tiptoed inside.

With a smile, Yn crept into the kitchen, quietly preparing the tteokbokki before placing it on a plate and carrying it to the bedroom. They presented him with the steaming dish, his eyes lighting up with delight as he caught sight of his favorite snack.

"You didn't have to," Sunoo murmured, touched by Yn's thoughtfulness.

Yn simply shrugged, a fond smile playing on their lips. "Anything for you, especially when it comes to tteokbokki." And as they sat together in the dim light of the bedroom, sharing the spicy rice cakes and laughing softly.

IX. Stuck With You

Sunoo peered out the window, dismay written all over his face as he watched the rain pour down in sheets, drenching the streets outside. It was supposed to be the day of their long-awaited date, but Mother Nature had other plans.

With a sigh, he turned to Yn, who stood beside him, their disappointment palpable. "Looks like our plans are ruined," he said, a hint of regret in his voice.

Yn nodded, a small frown marring their features. "Yeah, I was really looking forward to it."

But Sunoo wasn't one to let a little rain dampen their spirits. With a mischievous grin, he grabbed Yn's hand, pulling them towards the couch. "Well, since we're stuck indoors anyway, why don't we make the most of it?"

And so, they spent the afternoon huddled together on the couch, surrounded by blankets and pillows as they delved into the depths of Sunoo's movie collection. Some were classics, others were so bad they were almost unwatchable, but they laughed and joked through them all, their spirits buoyed by each other's company.

As evening approached and the rain showed no signs of letting up, they snuggled closer together on the couch, content to stay cocooned in their little bubble of laughter and love.

X. Bad Decisions

Sunoo's eyes sparkled with excitement as he pointed towards the towering roller coaster, its loops and twists standing out against the vibrant backdrop of the amusement park. "Come on, Yn, let's go on that one!" he exclaimed, his voice filled with enthusiasm.

Yn hesitated for a moment, their stomach twisting with nerves at the sight of the formidable ride. Roller coasters were never their favorite, but they didn't want to disappoint Sunoo, who was practically bouncing with anticipation.

"Okay, let's do it," Yn agreed, forcing a smile as they tried to muster up some courage.

The safety bar clicked into place, trapping them in place as the coaster lurched forward, climbing higher and higher until they were soaring through the air.

Yn's heart pounded in their chest as the coaster hurtled down the first drop, their stomach dropping with it. They gripped the safety bar with white-knuckled intensity, their eyes squeezed shut as they tried to block out the sensation of freefalling.

Beside them, Sunoo whooped with excitement, his laughter mingling with the screams of the other riders. But as the coaster continued its wild journey, Yn's initial bravado began to fade, replaced by a growing sense of dread.

By the time the ride came to an end, Yn was a trembling mess, their breath coming in ragged gasps as they stumbled out of their seat. Sunoo looked over at them with concern, his excitement tempered by the realization that Yn hadn't enjoyed the ride as much as he had hoped.

"Are you okay?" Sunoo asked, his voice filled with worry as he reached out to steady Yn.

Yn nodded weakly, their legs feeling like jelly as they leaned against Sunoo for support. "I think I'll stick to the gentler rides from now on," they admitted sheepishly, a weak smile tugging at their lips.

Sunoo wrapped an arm around Yn's shoulders, pulling them close as they made their way out of the amusement park. "That's okay," he said gently, his voice filled with understanding. "As long as we're together, it doesn't matter what rides we go on."

XI. Concert Surprise

Sunoo stepped onto the stage, the roar of the crowd enveloping him like a warm embrace as he prepared to perform for his adoring fans. The energy in the air was palpable, crackling with excitement and anticipation.

Little did Sunoo know, amidst the sea of faces in the audience, Yn stood front and center, a banner clutched tightly in their hands, their heart pounding with nervous excitement. They had traveled for hours to be here, determined to surprise Sunoo and show him their unwavering support.

As the music filled the air and Sunoo began to sing, Yn's eyes never left him, their heart swelling with pride at the sight of their boyfriend commanding the stage with such confidence and charisma. They held up their banner high, the words "Sunoo, You're Our Star!" emblazoned across it in bold letters, hoping that Sunoo would catch a glimpse of it amidst the sea of fans.

And then, it happened. Sunoo's gaze flickered over the crowd, his eyes locking with Yn's as he spotted the banner waving proudly in the air. A smile spread across his face, his heart swelling with love and gratitude at the sight of Yn, their unwavering support shining bright in the dimly lit arena.

In that moment, Yn felt a rush of overwhelming joy wash over them as Sunoo sang his heart out, pouring his soul into every note. They cheered and applauded with the rest of the crowd, their voice hoarse from shouting Sunoo's name, but they didn't care. They were just happy to be here, to witness Sunoo's talent and passion firsthand, and to show him just how much he meant to them.

After the concert, as Sunoo made his way offstage, he spotted Yn waiting for him, their eyes shining with pride and adoration. Without hesitation, he made a beeline for them, pulling them into a tight embrace as he whispered words of thanks and love into their ear.

"Thank you for being here," Sunoo said softly, his voice filled with emotion.

Yn smiled up at him, their heart overflowing with love. "I wouldn't have missed it for the world," they replied, their voice filled with sincerity.

XII. Fake It Till You Make It

Sunoo and Yn lay in bed side by side, the glow of the TV casting eerie shadows across the room as they tried to shake off the lingering effects of the horror movie they had just watched. Despite their best efforts to appear unaffected, both knew that sleep would be elusive tonight.

"Pretty intense movie, huh?" Sunoo remarked casually, his voice carefully casual as he tried to gauge Yn's reaction.

Yn shrugged nonchalantly, their heart still racing from the adrenaline of the film. "Yeah, it was alright," they replied, their tone equally noncommittal.

Silence settled between them, punctuated only by the faint sounds of the night outside. But despite their attempts to play it cool, both Sunoo and Yn were acutely aware of the tension in the air, the lingering unease that the movie had left behind.

"Are you scared?" Sunoo asked suddenly, unable to contain his curiosity any longer.

Yn hesitated for a moment before shaking their head adamantly. "Of course not," they replied, their voice a little too forceful to be convincing.

Sunoo raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. "Me neither," he said, his voice teasing as he tried to mask his own unease.

But as the minutes stretched into hours and sleep continued to elude them, Sunoo and Yn found themselves drawing closer together, seeking comfort in each other's presence.

And as dawn began to break outside the window, casting a soft glow over the room, Sunoo and Yn finally allowed themselves to relax, the tension of the night slowly fading away.

[ohdudedhesflirting]

Is that a mosquito bite ?

Pairing : Kim Jiwoong x gender neutral reader, all the members are quickly mentionned.

Synopsis : The day after an evening with boyfriend!Jiwoong

Genre : Crack, very suggestive.

Warnings : It's very, very suggestive. "Mosquito bites" (Not tagging anyone since it’s very VERY suggestive)

🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸 🌸

"Babe, the boys are gonna get there soon. I will clean up our mess in the kitchen and make breakfast. Come out when you feel like it alright?"

Jiwoong slowly was murmuring close to your ear and patting your head before giving you a quick kiss on your naked shoulder before leaving the room.

Slowly rising up from your shared bed, you slowly stretched yourself after the exhausting night you had with your boyfriend.

Getting out of the shower, you struggled to properly walk. Now that you were fulling awake the drowsiness and tiredness were both than real on your body.

Getting out of the shower, you struggled to properly walk. Now that you were fulling awake the drowsiness and tiredness were both than real on your body.

Getting out of the shower, you struggled to properly walk. Now that you were fulling awake the drowsiness and tiredness were both than real on your body.

Dressing with some sweatpants and a shirt stolen from Jiwoong's closet you went out to greet the members and ask them about their evening.

Lazily, you went to the kitchen, greeted warmly by eight energetic boys and your lovely boyfriend. Sitting down on the kitchen chair, the man kissed your hair and asked you how you were doing.

Excitedly all the boys were telling you about their evnings and how much fun they had.

Suddenly Yujin asked curious "Is that a mosquito bite ?" while looking straight at you with his big innocent eyes.

Both you and Jiwoong looked at each other before your eyes went down, noticing a few red marks getting out of your shirt. The marks were essentially down but a few were still unfortunately poking out.

All the members also went to look at you, curious about what Yujin was talking about. The youngest pointed at the marks and almost all the members exchanged a knowing look before either snorting or laughing or just becoming plainly red. Only Gyuvin and Yunjin were not understanding the situation.

Now you were just terribly blushing and being fully embarrassed. You knew it was a bad idea. You just knew it.

All while reminiscing the night you had, (+18 content) you simply were coughing up from the embarrassment.

"Jiwoong?"

It was Gyuvin puppy like voice asking that brought you out of your thoughts, now all the understanding members were just dead laughing and telling the eldest to explain it to two of the youngest.

With his protecting aura, Jiwoong got closer to you and fakely looked at the marks.

"You are right Yunjin those are bad mosquito bites !"

"You must be delicious then to have been bitten so many times" added Gyuvin.

Now Ricky and Gunwook were completely gone laughing in each other's arms. The 3 other eldest were just trying their best to hold it in and not laugh or looking at you that now just completely wanted to dissappear.

"I guess so" Jiwoong gave you a knowing look and kissed the top of your head.

"Thats it I'm leaving" exclaimed Matthew before leaving the room to go into his, quickly followed by Hao and Hanbin.

Still worried Yujin told you "I'll find you some repellent if you want"

Ricky and Gunwook that had calmed down went back to their full on hearty laughters.

[divineerdrick]

Homestuck: Beyond Canon Upd8 for 413

Happy 413 everyone! We knew we were getting something today, as James announced that earlier. This time, it's an extensive news posts with notes from the whole team. Looks like we've got a few comic pages as well. Let's see what we got!

James: I can definitely relate to what James is saying. Homestuck and its community helped me keep going when it seemed like there genuinely wasn't a path forward. Obviously it hasn't always been sunshine and rainbows, but I do still feel there is a lot of genuine goodness and greatness in our little corner of the internet.

And yay! James is an Aradia fan!

Kim:

Kim is one of the people who grew up with this comic. I honestly can't imagine what that must be like. Although I had a lot of media I enjoyed at 13, I don't feel like any of it had the kind of impact on me then that Homestuck had now. It's not like there wasn't anything good on, either! It was 1993 when I was 13, and WB and Disney were at their apex. But Homestuck hit different. I honestly can't imagine what it was like being able to relate to those kids like they could be your friends in another life, growing up along side them.

Miles:

A beautiful mindfuck is a great way to describe it. Honestly the somewhat over the top, trollish, insincere seeming way that Miles is writing shows a great love for Homestuck and the project in and of itself. The love honestly does come through.

Chumi:

Chumi appears to be even younger than Kim, though I could be wrong there. And she also grew up with it, if maybe starting a couple of years into its run. But it goes a step further for her. Homestuck is her formative fandom. And again, I can't imagine what that must be like, let alone now creating art for it.

Andi:

Andi is another member of the team to have grown up alongside Homestuck. It makes sense that this would create the most talented and passionate people to work on the project. Like many fans, though, they also had Homestuck influence their identity and help them feel safe in discovering who they were. It will always be important we have people like them keeping this fandom alive.

floralmarsupial:

While the way Homestuck inspired me was different, she too was drawn in and influenced by the very artistic questions Homestuck posed. Looks like James has managed to put together a team that has all been impacted by Homestuck in subtly different ways. And I'm totally here for it!

Haven:

Oh wow! Coming in on Murderstuck! Ouch! Still, the effect Homestuck has had on them is very obvious!

It's nice to hear more from each voice behind the project. I'm glad they took the time to make this celebration a bit more personal. But with all that said and done, it's time to read an Upd8!

There is so much to talk about just from this image.

First off, this is the most like Bro that Dirk has ever looked. And it's not just the fact that we've just got a plain white silhouette with shades. There is a lot of chaos in this panel reminiscent of Bro's apartment. That outfit has absolutely never looked wackier. The anime ninja aesthetics combined with the pooffiness of those shorts is already crazy. But the Kamina cape in this looks more cliché villain than anime hero.

While we can't currently see one of the monitors, we absolutely can see that Dirk has been keeping track of our Meat crew. My guess is that the other monitor is Deltritus.

Also we get a throwback with some orange drinks floating about.

Dirk is, of course, being suitably condescending here. After all, in his mind this is the only way to make the narrative matter, to make anything that we'll give a shit about. He probably knows we still enjoy the "narrative kiddy pool" but he's counting on us truly getting invested in what he has planned.

Wow! Nice frame break! Also this art slaps!

Apparently Rose and Terezi are still a thing. Dirk only seems to partially approve of this. From his perspective, the relationship is a very Rose thing to do. And Rose doing Rose things is important to him and his plans. He also appreciates that Rose doesn't have infinite patience for the finetuning that Dirk could spend a literal eternity on. It keeps him on something resembling a schedule.

So are we going to see these "scions" of theirs?

I like that there's an obvious sea horse in that test tube. Also, outside of Hero mode Dirk is still sporting his character features at least. He hasn't slipped into being a full guardian yet.

Well fuck. That might just be the hardest anyone has ever "spoken too soon."

Hell yes! Adult Terezi is awesome! Also, she's not getting rid of her facial features any time soon!

I hope I didn't jinx that . . .

I'd forgotten Terezi can hear Dirk's narrative. She's also very much on the "Get on with it!" train. Dirk was planning to skip ahead anyway, but of course he wants to unveil his creation first.

So Terezi will be the one that actually makes sure the new session happens. I'm surprised Dirk is allowing that. I can definitely get why he doesn't want it automated.

I can honestly believe that Dirk really does care about his creation.

And I can honestly see Terezi playing the long game. I'm honestly curious why she wouldn't, beside Dirk's fuckery.

Ouch.

Also, damn this art is so fucking good!

We've seen the way Terezi can let what she sees as a mistake eat at her. We've seen how far she'll go to fix it. Is John's death doing that to her? Is even this older, seemingly more jaded Terezi unable to let something like that go even with what's at stake?

Or could she possibly be letting Dirk think that's what's going on? I really kinda hope that's it.

Now that's just being mean pretending you don't know what she meant by being in her "CH4MB3RS", Dirk.

Apparently Dirk still has a mouth when he needs to.

FUCKING!!!

DAMN!!!

That's an interesting way of showing them speaking at the same time. Kinda like it.

Okay. That is some legitimate Bullshit. I like that even Dirk calls it out as such. That is a ton of power to just flex like that. His reasoning is sound, but even he knows he's partly doing it because he can.

Wow.

There is so much to potentially read into this moment. On the one had, this might be a genuine Rose moment. Even if Dirk has been manipulating her a lot, this version of Rose might genuinely be appreciative of what they're trying to do.

The other possibility is that Rose is manipulating Dirk this time. There've been hints, and I find it hard to believe otherwise, the Rose is aware Dirk has been manipulating her somehow. She may not have figured out how he's doing it, but I feel she knows. As an ascended Seer of Light, her ability to read the most fortuitous path is literally godlike. I can't imagine that definition of fortune including one where she keeps losing more and more agency. So this might be a moment where she's telling Dirk what he needs to hear to stop him from stealing more from her.

The worst part is he genuine believes that.

[mostlysignssomeportents]

Kinkslump Linkdump

This is my dozenth linkdump! The world comes at you fast, and even though I'm writing 4-5 essays a week for this newsletter, many's the week that ends with more stray links than will fit in that format. Here's the previous ones:

https://pluralistic.net/tag/linkdump/

I managed to turn out five posts last week, despite being on tour with my latest novel, The Lost Cause, a hopeful solarpunk novel endorsed by Rebecca Solnit, Bill McKibben and Kim Stanley Robinson. The tour went great – the book's now a national bestseller on the USA Today list! Here's an essay I wrote explaining the structure of the feeling that the book is meant to convey:

https://www.torforgeblog.com/2023/11/14/cory-doctorow-the-swerve/

This is a climate emergency novel full of rising seas, terrible storms, wildfires and zoonotic plagues, and yet – it is a hopeful novel. What makes it hopeful? It depicts a future in which we are treating these phenomena with the gravitas and urgency they warrant, with our whole society's focus shifting to moving coastal cities inland, weatherizing and solarizing our housing, and creating permanent housing for internal refugees.

While it would be infinitely preferable to live in a world where none of that is necessary, that's not the world we have. This is an sf novel, not a fantasy novel, so all the climate harms we've locked in through decades of expensively procured inaction are present. But the difference between disaster and catastrophe is how and whether we address those harms. Sure, this is a world where superstorms wipe away whole cities and Miami is a drowned mangrove swamp, but it's also a world in which oil executives do not chair UN climate summits or complain that oil companies are being "unjustly vilified":

https://www.cnbc.com/2023/11/27/opec-says-oil-industry-unjustly-vilified-ahead-of-climate-talks-.html

I write a lot, and it's not just this newsletter. Writing transports me from my anxieties and aches. That's how I came to write nine books during lockdown ("when life gives you SARS, make sarsaparilla"). Lost Cause was one of three books I published in 2023.

I'm going to greet 2024 with another novel, The Bezzle, a sequel to 2023's Red Team Blues, about the hard-charging, high-tech forensic accountant Marty Hench:

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250865878/thebezzle

The Bezzle is a story about the shitty technology adoption curve – the way that the worst technologies we have are first rolled out on the people least able to complain about them. After these bad technologies have their sharp edges sanded down on the bodies of prisoners, refugees and kids, they move up to blue collar workers and discount store shoppers, and so on, until we're all living under their thumb.

In The Bezzle, a dear friend of Marty finds himself serving a long sentence in a privatized California prison that flips from one private equity fund to the next, each with even worse, more extractive ways to use technology to bleed prisoners and their families dry. You can read the opening scenes in a just-published excerpt on Tor Books's site:

https://www.torforgeblog.com/2023/11/20/excerpt-reveal-the-bezzle-by-cory-doctorow/

The period immediately before a book's publication is always a tense one, as the first reviews trickle in. Library Journal's Marlene Harris is the first out of the gate, with a spectacular review:

https://www.libraryjournal.com/review/the-bezzle-1802415

Marty’s reminiscences range from obscure financial machinations to heaping helpings of social commentary but always move the underlying thriller story forward in a backwards heist tale that delivers a righteously satisfying ending to the surprise of both the reader and the villain. This novel, like his previous outing, rides on Marty’s voice. He has a jaundiced view of everything, but he tells it with such style and verve that readers are caught up and ride along on the surface until the shark beneath the water jumps out and bites the villain where it hurts.

I'm headed into Skyboat Media's studios on Monday with @wilwheaton to record the audiobook for this one, directed as ever by the amazing Gabrielle de Cuir. Keep your eyes peeled for a presale crowdfunder in January!

I am often asked how I decide when to present an idea through fiction and when to do so with nonfiction. The answer is a complicated one, and I got into it in some detail on Nature's Working Scientist podcast, in discussion with Paul Shrivastava:

https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-023-03394-8

When it comes to politics, fiction and nonfiction are intensely complementary. Nonfiction can convey the data about a social phenomenon, but fiction can convey the meaning of the data. It's one thing to see a chart about inequality, and another to inhabit it through fiction. Marty Hench's narrative adventures are a way into the feeling of living in a corrupt oligarchy.

There are other ways into that feeling, of course. Take Barry Bowen's "Lifestyles of the Blessed & Famous: Preacher Homes Sold in 2023" for The Roys Report:

https://julieroys.com/lifestyles-blessed-famous-preacher-homes-sold-2023/?mc_cid=9678383b64

If a picture is worth a thousand words, then carefully staged realtor drone shots ganked from the Redfin listing for a "pastor"'s $3.5m mansion in Newport Beach is a full-on sermon about the corruption of the Hillsong megachurch:

https://www.redfin.com/CA/Newport-Beach/503-30th-St-92663/home/12363926

Narratives and photos are all well and good, but there's always room for some data. The USA's weird breed of federalism and devolved power makes for some very interesting data. Writing for The American Prospect, Paul Starr rounds up several studies evaluating the "natural experiments" created by enacting very different policies in otherwise similar states:

https://prospect.org/health/2023-12-08-life-death-cost-conservative-power/

The data is in: conservativism kills. Living in a red state shortens your life expectancy. The redder the state, the worse it is. The bluer the state, the longer you're likely to live:

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/1468-0009.12469

The exemplars here are Connecticut and Oklahoma, whose life expectancies were at par until they began to diverge in policies. Oklahoma got more conservative, Connecticut got more liberal. Today, the average Oklahoman will pop their clogs at 75.8, while a Connecticutensian can expect 80.7 years.

Different scholars have parsed out different policy outcomes. Giving Medicaid to children, for example, shows benefits for the next 50 years:

https://www.aeaweb.org/articles?id=10.1257/aer.20171671

The big one, of course, is gun control. Here's the topline: "restrictive state gun policies reduce overall gun deaths." Water also wet:

https://journals.lww.com/epidem/fulltext/2023/11000/the_era_of_progress_on_gun_mortality__state_gun.3.aspx

Fact-free spiritual beliefs like "an armed society is a polite society" are key to conservative policymaking. Pesky progressives who confuse the issue with relevant facts are playing dirty, pointing out reality's unfair leftist bias.

But after 40 years of neoliberal deference to corporate power, the worm is turning. Somehow, a world on fire, filled with megapastors in megamansions who brief for lethal policies, has finally inspired a global vibe-shift (and not a moment too soon!). One of the most tangible expressions of that shift is the revival of antitrust, which has been in a coma since the Reagan administration.

All over the world – the EU, the UK, Ireland, Australia, and the USA – there are new competition enforcers challenging corporate power in ways that were unthinkable just a few years ago. If I'd written an enforcer like FTC chair Lina Khan in 2010, critics would have slammed me for wish-fulfillment too unrealistic for science fiction.

But today, Khan is taking big swings at corporate power, fighting against a calcified edifice of decades of bad, pro-monopoly precedent. The pro-monopoly press hate her, which is why the WSJ keeps publishing sweaty op-eds insisting that she is wasting her time and that monopolies are good, actually:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/07/14/making-good-trouble/#the-peoples-champion

But she is still out there, fighting for all of us. After a pro-monopoly judge stymied the FTC's bid to block the rotten Microsoft/Activision merger, Khan re-filed, appealing the decision:

https://www.reuters.com/markets/deals/us-ftc-tries-again-stop-microsofts-already-closed-deal-activision-2023-12-06/

Critics insist that she's on a foolish errand, but Khan is tackling the most promising face of a sheer cliff, and the plainly anticompetitive merger between one of the world's largest console makers (a convicted monopolist!) with one of the world's largest games publishers is the right place to start. If she can get her piton into one of the hairline cracks in that face, her arduous climb gains a solid anchor for the next stage of her assent.

Of course, Khan's highest-profile action is her case against Amazon, the omnipresent, dystopian poster-child for enshittification, a platform we can't avoid, but which is so haphazardly policed that the bestselling bitter lemon energy drink you order might be bottled piss harvested from its immiserated drivers:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/10/20/release-energy/#the-bitterest-lemon

In a world of murderous, community-destroying monopolies, Amazon stands out for the sheer number of ways it makes the world worse. Amazon maims its warehouse workers and kills its drivers with impossible quotas. It poisons Black and brown neighborhoods with truck exhaust from its giant depots. It destroys small businesses that sell on its platform. It was part of the studio cabal scheming to destroy actors and writers' livelihoods with unfair contracts and AI. Its audiobook monopoly stole at least $100m from independent authors. It makes goods and services more expensive at every retailer (not just Amazon), and price-gouges on its own storefront:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/11/06/attention-rents/#consumer-welfare-queens

Keeping that scam going requires a lot of skullduggery. A new set of leaked internal Amazon documents shed some light on how that inedible sausage gets made:

https://www.vice.com/en/article/wxjbm9/amazon-brags-it-cultivated-california-mayor-with-donations-in-leaked-policy-document

Amazon's "Community Engagement Plan 2024" brags about buying off small-town mayors and astroturf groups in its bid to resist regulations that would limit warehouse delivery van emissions in communities of color (Amazon calls this "philanthropic work"). Coincidentally, that "philanthropy" targeted Perris, a town where residents voted for a warehouse tax to repair the roads that had been trashed by fleets of Amazon vans.

But the real focus of Amazon's "Community Engagement" is California's AB1000, a bill that will limit the construction of supersized, 100k+ sqft warehouses near daycare centers, schools or rec centers. Secondarily, Amazon is hoping to get California to make it easier to advertise alcohol around kids, to "unlock" California's liquor market.

This kind of shameless, mustache-twirling villainry can only go on so long before it meets resistance. One of the longest-running, hardest fought struggles against corporate malfeasance is the farmers' right ro repair fight against John Deere. Deere boobytraps its tractors so that after a farmer repairs a Deere tractor, they have to wait for days, and pay hundreds of dollars, for a Deere technician to come out to the farm and type an unlock code into the tractor's console:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/05/08/about-those-kill-switched-ukrainian-tractors/

Despite multiple state right-to-repair initiatives and a pending rulemaking from the FTC, Deere is still fucking around. Now, they've found out. US District Court Judge Iain Johnson just handed Deere a scathing, 89-page memo rejecting the company's bid to kill a class action suit brought by its customers:

https://www.reuters.com/legal/litigation/deere-must-face-us-farmers-right-to-repair-lawsuits-judge-rules-2023-11-27/?ref=404media.co

The memo hearkens back to company founder John Deere, "an innovative farmer and blacksmith who—with his own hands—fundamentally changed the agricultural industry":

https://www.404media.co/a-massive-repair-lawsuit-against-john-deere-clears-a-major-hurdle/

Judge Johnson tells Deere's lawyers that the real John Deere "would be deeply disappointed in his namesake corporation," and calls out their lying. You love to see it.

This kind of thing is happening all over the world as policymakers, regulators and lawmakers take aim at corporate power. The Australian government just announced that it would force Apple to open up iOS to alternative browser engines:

https://open-web-advocacy.org/blog/new-digital-competition-laws-for-australia/

This is obscure and technical, but that's why it's so exciting: rather than mumbling broad platitudes about competition and user choice, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's regulation targets a critical leverage point where a small change will deliver huge benefits:

https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/consumers-and-small-businesses-to-benefit-from-proposed-new-regulation-of-digital-platforms

While there are many browsers in Apple's App Store, they're all just reskinned versions of Safari, all running on the same core engine, Webkit. Webkit is ancient, undermaintained and feature-poor. Crucially, Webkit does not implement the parts of the HTML5 standard needed for WebApps, which would allow app developers a safe channel to offer apps that don't go through Apple's App Store monopoly chokepoint:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/12/13/kitbashed/#app-store-tax

Now, there's a big jump between announcing this kind of regulation and enacting it. As Mark Nottingham points out, Australia's had an "in principle" commitment to enact a privacy regulation for two successive governments, with no actual regulation in sight:

https://techpolicy.social/@mnot/111546662237364754

So we can't take these announcements as a sign to declare victory and stand down. The policymakers who announce these proposals deserve our accolades for the announcement and they require our constant vigilance until they make good on their promises.

That's the case in Ireland, where the Coimisiún na Meán has just published a fantastic regulatory proposal for recommendation systems, requiring recommenders to be turned off by default and that recommendations based on "political views, sexuality, religion, ethnicity or health" have to be switched off by default:

https://www.cnam.ie/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Draft_Online_Safety_Code_Consultation_Document_Final.pdf

It's especially significant that this is coming out of Ireland, a corporate crime haven that has successfully lured the world's tech giants into flying its flag of convenience, with the guarantee of tax evasion and lax regulation:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/05/15/finnegans-snooze/#dirty-old-town

This rule won't enforce itself. It'll require constant vigilance and pressure. There's plenty of ways to do that on a part-time, voluntary basis, but if this kind of thing enflames you enough to make a career out of it, here's a tenure-track job for an infosec professor at Citizen Lab, fearless slayers of high-tech corporate ogres:

https://jobs.utoronto.ca/job/Toronto-Assistant-Professor-Information-Security-ON/576463017/

That's all for this week's linkdump. It's time for me to go hole up in my office and wrap presents. When I do, I'll be tuning into the latest Merry Mixmas MP3 of Christmas mashups from DJ Riko:

http://www.djriko.com/dls/DJ%20Riko%20-%20Merry%20Mixmas%202023.mp3

Riko's Christmas mashups have been part of my holidays for more than two decades now. He's been making them for 22 years! That's a lot of great holiday mashups:

https://www.djriko.com/mixmases.htm

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/12/09/gallimaufry/#marty-hench-rides-again

[u3pxx]

hey sun! sorry to bother you, but I'm currently doing a commission for a guy who wants a portrait made in the disco elusium style and I've never drawn in that style before ^^;

any tips, especially how to color?

not a bother at all! and while i'm not an expert on the disco elysium art style since i don't think i've done enough studies on it to say that i'm confident on saying what to do, i'll try my best to list out the things i've noticed while mimicking the art style. i'll split this into two parts, the composition of a portrait and the rendering and technical stuff behind it

i'll keep it under read more bc some of these portraits i'll be talking about are spoilers! whoops!

COMPOSITION

there's like, an unbelievable amount of variety when it comes to the portraits of disco elysium! personally, when i'm trying to mimic the art style, i try and look at the portraits in the game and see which of these characters are the most similar personality-wise to the character i'm trying to draw, and then i reference

1. PERSONALITY AND GROUNDEDNESS

let's compare the portraits of these two characters, ok? we have sylvie and idiot doom spiral. right off the bat, TOTALLY DIFFERENT VIBES, and that's good because we can instantly tell what kind of people these characters are supposed to be! and that's something disco elysium is excellent at.

sylvie's portrait is very simple; a very limited palette is used and the rendering on her is rather exact even with the rough-esque rendering that disco elysium's art uses. idiot doom spiral's portrait, on the other hand, is a lot more chaotic. there's more disorder to his portrait with how the paint strokes in the background seem to mix in with his face, there's a disheveled quality to how he's rendered.

ask yourself, how grounded is this character you're drawing? on a scale of sylvie to idiot doom spiral, how normal does their portrait look?

now, i'm not done with this klavier but i think it's pretty obvious that i heavily referenced smoker on the balcony's portrait because they have very similar vibes and role: pretty boy npc who your protagonist may or may not be a little infatuated with pftt (there's just something so different about them! i can't put my finger on it...)

2. WHAT DO THEY STAND FOR/THE ABSTRACT

ok! besides personality, they also have a knack for just doing some gorgeous portraits that truly reflect just, the history of a character and their role in the story. now i'm not the best at analysis so these are just gonna be some very simple observations about kim and dolores dei's portraits pftt.

the big white circle behind kim's face, besides doing an excellent job of framing kim, is very reminiscent of a nimbus which we typically see in religious art. it makes kim look like a very important figure, someone you should listen to. it's also kind of like a nod to how kim is like the few people who's like, civil and even nice to harry after his whole mind-breaking bender.

for dolores dei, GODDD i can rave about this portrait forever, it's such a favorite of mine. first, the rendering of her skin, she's like an opal or a golden statue; it's otherworldly, which makes sense because that's what harry thinks of her. and then, the splotchier and messier rendering below her, it's like she's fading away, she's just a distant memory of the past.

i'll use this very quick doodle of apollo in the de style to explain my point about symbols better. what is it that you want to emphasize about your character? are there any motifs you'd like to show?

i definitely wanted to portray apollo as determined and even heroic-looking in this portrait. leaning into his name, added that rim-lighting as if the sun was shining on him. emphasized his badge by giving it this exaggerated shine on it and lastly, made the background like the one he has when he perceives.

3. LOCATION

for backgrounds, i feel like you can go either three ways: abstract colors, political alignment, and location.

(i'm not happy that i have to use gary as an example here but he's the most blatant example of the second type of background AKSKSKS orz)

ok! so harry's bg, pretty funky, pretty fun. gary's bg, he's a fascist, that's the fascist flag in de. moving along trant's bg looks like a very abstract version of the wall in the building he's seen gazing at, heck, the way he's head is turned to you looks like you just called out his name and he quickly turned around to look at you but he is still very much facing the building.

more examples of those three things! garte: colors. titus: that red block is present on all union members. dicemaker: facing the window in the darkness of her workshop.

RENDERING

de has fairly very realistic looking faces, so brush up on your knowledge of the anatomy of a face or collect many faces/portraits that look the character you're trying to draw and reference the SHIT out of them!

1. BRUSHSTROKES

you're gonna be needing some brushes that have a texture to them ok. you're gonna need to slap those bad boys in that digital canvas and go wild ok. you can still do lineart kind of not everything is like rendered RENDERED bc some portraits make heavy use of smoother-looking black strokes to indicate lineart. ok i love you

2. PALETTES

think back to personality and symbolism, what colors are strongly associated with your character, and how grounded are they. the more normal they are the more minimal colors are used but if there's something going on with them you can go so so so wild

and also, you can eyedrop tool the colors from any of the de portraits, makes life easier pftt

3. HOW TO RENDER? HELP?

i'll go ahead and put my drawing of butch!kim here bc i basically just did a study of kim's portrait pftt. the art style is very painterly so i'm so sorry to say that you're gonna have to paint 😔 i know... i'm so sorry...

so block your colors! block your shadows and chip away on that thang, give it dimension! don't zoom in on your canvas in the earlier stages bc you'll end up fixating on one tiny part instead of the whole painting itself, and that's gonna make the duration of your drawing so much longer lol

ok i've been writing this for way too long and i can't think anything more to add so if there's anything else you want to know that i didn't mention here, feel free to ask me again. now good luck 🫡

[a-10st-s0u1]

I can't sleep bcuz I keep thinking abt this comment I saw somewhere about how they hope Pete and Kenta ends up together.. While I do get the appeal esp after the flashback scenes, the history and the chemistry.. I don't want Kenta to be anybody's second option anymore after all these years/DECADES of mistreatment(UNDERSTATEMENT) from Tony. He deserves to be someone's no.1 priority and choice..

I don't want anyone to settle for him just bcuz they couldn't get their loved one almost like a compensation... Idek if this makes sense but just no.

Pete esp from the last 2 eps was very much into Way at least from what I saw/interpreted( and is seen reminiscing their shared interactions n getting emotional during the last ep)... So in the future Pete & Kenta can be friends or "brothers" as Pete said to Way but please not romantic partners/boyfriends...

Another reason why I am Team KimKenta/KentaKim apart from the fact that they're probably my favorite characters.. But it's okay even if it's not Kim.

In short I just want someone who's devoted to Kenta and loves him for who he is and in the process heals him ...Someone who doesn't give up on him or betrays him....He deserves to be someone's family and home..he deserves to feel NEEDED..VALUED..

He deserves to be LOVED and CHERISHED. And to be PRIORITISED. KENTA DESERVES TO BE HAPPY.

Also I do hope he reconnects and stay close with his bros(Babe,Charlie,Jeff,etc) and slowly integrated with the X-Hunter Team bcuz they would make great friends.

Ok I think I'm done and hopefully I will be able to sleep now.

[bts-hyperfixation]

Summer Madness/kinktober Masterlist

A collection of BTS fanfictions that I am marathon writing over the summer while I'm off work. A total of 33 works spanning different members. This is a long list including the blurbs, so they are all under the cut. All of them include a reader insert

Brotherly Betrayal - JK

You've been dating your high school best friend for three years now, pretty much since you left high school. Lately, though he hasn't been able to make it home from college to see you as often as you both might've liked... His brother, Jungkook, has decided this is completely unacceptable and wants to show you how his little brother should really be treating you. (Spanking, praise, degradation[once], overstimulation, Cheating)

2. Long Day - NJ x HS

After a long day at work, Hoseok isn't really up for the anniversary plans they had made, so they make a few adjustments

3. Is Three a Crowd? - NJ x SJ

Namjoon arrives late to an after-party and finds that the girl he is crushing on has started flirting with another member in his absence.

4. Bring Innocence to Sin - YG

You decide it's finally time for Yoongi and you to start a family but he isn't so certain

5. Pregnant Frustrations - NJ

Namjoon comes home to find his pregnant wife with a bit of a conundrum

6. Finding Solace in Uniform - HS

Hoseok has been struggling with adjusting to military life. Foreign soldier Y/N takes pity on the poor guy and tries to help him out.

7. Repercussions - HS x NJ

Y/N is fed up of not being the center of attention because Namjoon and Hoseok are busy. But can she handle it when bratting gets her EXACTLY what she asked for?

8. Tour Suprise - YG

You surprise your best friend, Yoongi, while he has a few days break on tour. The only issue is you didn't think to check if there was space for you at the hotel... looks like you're sharing a bed.

9. Tempting Tutelage - TH

When you begin to fall behind in one of your university courses, you enlist the help of your childhood friend, Kim Taehyung, to help you pass the semester.

10. Faux Beaux Retreat - NJ

11. Serendipitous PenPals - JK

12. Cold Companions - TH x JM

13. Beta Be Good Enough - SJ

Omega kim Seokjin is about to hit his heat, but his partner is a beta, not an alpha. She expresses her concerns but he will hear none of it, he thinks she is more than enough and now she needs to prove it

14. Tidal Temptation - NJ

15. Friendly Favours - JK

16. Sensual Synthetics - JM

17. Envious Revelations - YG

18. Jealous Regrets - NJ

19. Helping Hybrids - NJ

20. Snack Time - HS

21. World's Best Rapper - NJ x YG

22. Living Legend - NJ x JK

23. Suspicious Flirtations - YG

24. Seductive Revenge - SJ

25. Are You Jealous Baby? - NJ x JK

26. Just a Reminder - JK

27. Small Miscommunication - NJ

28. I Knew it! - SJ

29. Revealing Rivalries - NJ

30. Reminiscent Romance -TH

31. Call Me Daddy, and I'll Call You Tomorrow - NJ

32. Power Trip - SJ

33. Magnetic Meetings - SJ

[acuteobserv4tion]

Season 2 is just all around the best season for everyone, not just Chloe. Marinette being a good person and actually learning, Adrien development as well as him being an actual person (not just some trophy), Gabriel Development with him caring about Adrien, Nino Development in him being a more sociable good boy coming out of his shell, Alya being the one kids can attach to as wanting to be a hero. After that, everyone starts being assassinated.

Season 3 AKA Lila's season

Marinette Assassination (being an a-hole and full-blown stalker)

Gabriel Assassination (willing to knowingly beat up his son and doesn't care)

Season 4

Adrien Assassination (Taking his child neglect issues/needing to feel needed and flipping it to be about his unrequited love for ladybug)

Chloe Assassination (obvious; Astruc hates her and gaslights us about her)

And season 5

Nino Assassination (going from caring friend to remorseless a-hole like Marinette)

And what I believe to be Alya Assassination (she's such a flip-flop now. Help your friend with superhero stuff now that you know. Marinette is having a crisis. This stuff is more important) though I hope I'm wrong

This show is just Character Assassination now. That's all this is anymore. And now I hear they might be assassinating Kim. Throw his development from season 1 and 2 out the window. Kim can be cocky and naive, but now apparently, he's just stupid and angry.

What I once hoped was us seeing his arc in reverse, via Rose Quartz style, is apparently Kim just reminiscing fondly to his girlfriend and Adrien. What happened to the continuity from Dark Cupid where he stopped hanging out with Chloe after she messed with him? What happened with Syren where he stopped crushing on Chloe and asked Ondine on a date?

It's painfully obvious when this show comes up with stuff on the spot because it doesn't line up with what's been established. Especially this new Marinette trauma thing THAT SHE DIDN'T EXPERIENCE AT ALL WITH LUKA OR NATHANIEL. Yeah. Remember Evillustrator? (Or Dark Cupid, Pidgeon 72, etc.)

Good writing is incorporating something new seamlessly by building off of something old. My Little Pony, for example. The Elements of Harmony being descendant from The Pillars is a solid installment with build-up in season 7. And guess what. My Little Pony Friendship is Magic was supposed to end at SEASON 3. Yet writers, new and old, worked together to create a solid storyline.

A show for young girls did that.

I'm sorry. I worked myself up from morning thoughts. I just had to get this out.

The one good thing I can say is that at least in the end, Kim learned a lesson. But they didn't have to make him a stupid jerk for him to learn that lesson.

[aurorawest]

Bargain of Blood and Gold by Kristin Jacques - 3.75/5 stars

Reminiscent of Jordan L Hawk's Widdershins series, but with vampires and werewolves. Also takes place in Maine, which isn't a very common setting. Unwittingly, I bought the second book in the series months ago, and I realized as it got to the top of my TBR that I didn't have the first book! I had to scramble to order it and I was happy I enjoyed it since, obviously, I already have the second book.

Ander & Santi Were Here by Jonny Garza Villa - DNF at pg 2

Captive Prince by CS Pacat (reread) - 5/5 stars

Prince's Gambit by CS Pacat (reread) - 5/5 stars

Kings Rising by CS Pacat - 5/5 stars

I think I loved these books even more on my reread.

Gravity by Tal Bauer - 4.25/5 stars

Probably my favorite hockey romance that I've read.

The Modern Mythos Anomaly by Juniper Lake Fitzgerald - DNF at pg 132

I actually liked the story, the characters, and the writing in general, but this book just needed another few edits to slim it down a bit.

Lose You to Find Me by Erik J Brown - 4.5/5 stars

Leeward by Katie Daysh - 4.5/5 stars

The blurbs on this book are hilarious, because they're all like, tall ships people, and then Mackenzi Lee, hailing it as a lovely queer historical romance. This was a really lovely book and I'm excited for the sequel. Also hoping for more kissing in the sequel since this was a serious slow burn.

Riley Weaver Needs a Date to the Gaybutante Ball by Jason June - 3.75/5 stars

Starseer by Katya Hernández - 4/5 stars

Be Dazzled by Ryan La Sala - 5/5 stars

I loved this book so much!! Oh my god. Super funny, very romantic. It revolves around cosplay which is of course a special interest of mine.

Northranger by Rey Terciero and Bre Indigo - 4.5/5 stars

Flying Without a Net by EM Ben Shaul - 2.75/5 stars

The Watchmaker of Filigree Street by Natasha Pulley (reread) - 5/5 stars

Striking Distance by Sarah Rees Brennan - 4.75/5 stars

I didn't expect to like this as much as I did. The graphic novels were good but changing to a novel format allowed for much deeper characters. Surprisingly devastating and also really funny.

The Old Haunts by Allan Radcliffe - 4/5 stars

The Gay Best Friend by Nicholas DiDomizio - 5/5 stars

Main character is the best friend of both the bride and the groom, and everything surrounding the wedding becomes a train wreck beginning on the weekend of the bachelor party, when the bride asks the MC, Dom, to keep tabs on the groom for her. As someone who is extremely conflict avoidant with friends but not family and romantic partners, I heavily related to Dom. There's also a romance that I really loved.

Romance Languages by AJ Truman - 4.25/5 stars

I think this was my favorite of the South Rock series. It deals with some more difficult topics—Julian's self-loathing over his body image is heartbreaking (and relatable), and Seamus's guilt over the way his gambling addiction hurt his ex was very well done. I'm a sucker for stories where a character learns to ask for help, not to mention difficult parent-child relationships, and this had both. I also appreciated Julian's arc re: sex and virginity.

Darkhearts by James L Sutter - 5/5 stars

Another bandmates-in-love treasure, with a twist—the main character, David, left the band right before they got famous. He ends up falling for one of his ex-friends/bandmates after they reconnect. The author is a musician himself, and it definitely shows (in a good way). I'm really a sucker for The Burdens of Fame, which this book definitely had, but there's actually a really good arc for David and how he deals with his jealousy and resentment over being left behind. Plus he wants to be a carpenter rather than go to college, which was cool.

Brute by Kim Fielding - 4.25/5 stars

We Could Be So Good by Cat Sebastian - 5/5 stars

What can I say about this book? Why was it so lovely? Why did it make me feel so much? Why can I not rate things higher than 5 stars? It's a million stars in my heart. Aside from just being a gorgeous mid-century America m/m romance (my favorite), this one features an Italian-American main character. The stuff with Nick's family was spot-on. I just loved this book. I felt like I was wrapping myself in a big, comfy, historical gay romance blanket.

Drowned Country by Emily Tesh - 5/5 stars

The sequel to Silver in the Wood. Had a very mythic and sort of folk horror vibe. This one is from Henry Silver's POV instead of Tobias Finch's and takes place two years after Silver in the Wood, which is time that Henry has mostly spent sulking in Greenhollow Hall, sans Tobias. Really highly recommend this duology. Emily Tesh is a treasure.

The Alchemy of Moonlight by David Ferraro - DNF at pg 11

[thebluemallet]

A look at my first thoughts on the trailer for Avatar: The Last Airbender

IT'S SOZIN'S COMET!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Are we going to see the attacks on the Air Temples???

That iceberg already looks better than the one from the movie that shall not be named. Just that one shot of the iceberg and I'm fucking sold on the art direction of this show.

SPOT ON casting for Katara as far as looks go. She even has the same face shape.

The parkas on both Sokka and Katara look amazing. Again, much better than what they had in the movie that shall not be named. I love the details in the designs on them.

THEY HAVE OMASHU! O-MA-SHU! WE'RE GETTING OMASHU!

Zuko has a SCAR. He has an actual SCAR. Not just something that looks kind of like a rash.

I've only had Netflix Uncle Iroh for a day and half. But if anything happens to him, I will hurt everyone in this room and then myself.

The Fire Nation throne room looks SICK with the flames cropping up.

It's the Fire Lord! I wondered if we would see him or not. But keeping him in shadows for two seasons won't work as well in a live-action show so I'm fine with it.

(Daniel Dae Kim voiced an Earth Kingdom General in the original series and now he's the Fire Lord!)

SUKI!!!

Honestly, showing Suki and the Kyoshi warriors in the trailer felt like a direct message from the show to fans of the original series that said, "Yes, they will be included and not cut out from the final product, unlike that other project."

Seriously, for those who don't remember, people in 2010 were getting their hopes up that the movie that shall not be named would be a) good despite the whitewashing and b) still include the Kyoshi warriors despite them not being in the trailers.

IT'S THE CRESCENT ISLAND WITH THE TEMPLE WITH THE FIRE SAGES WHERE AANG WILL GET TO TALK TO ROKU! HOLY SHIT!

Okay, I'll admit it. I may have gotten a little choked up when I first saw Aang flying through with his staff.

AANG!!!!!!!! Looking like a badass emerging from the mist.

THE MUSIC! THE MUSIC!

That shot of Aang in the burned forest looks exactly like the shot in the original show! Holy shit!

AGNI KAI!!! I have conflicting emotions about this! I'm excited it's in here but I'm not ready to see Zuko in that much pain.

ZUKO AND IROH FIGHTING TOGETHER!!!! Is this when Iroh got captured by the Earth Kingdom???

Also the animation on the firebending looks incredible and it looks reminiscent of the martial arts style they used for firebending in the show.

AZULA!

It looks like the fire is glowing in her eyes.

Sokka and Katara in the Southern Air Temple maybe?

AND CAN WE JUST APPRECIATE THAT SOKKA AND KATARA BOTH HAVE THE SAME NECKLACES THEY HAD IN THE ORIGINAL SHOW?!!!!!

The tattoos GLOW.

Is this Zuko attacking Kyoshi Island?!

The whole trailer I was chanting Show me Appa! Show me Appa!

AND I TEARED UP WHEN THEY FINALLY SHOWED APPA!

AND THAT MUSIC SWELL!!!! AHHHHH!

I'VE ONLY HAD NETFLIX APPA AND MOMO FOR A DAY AND A HALF. BUT IF ANYTHING HAPPENS TO THEM, I WILL HURT EVERYONE IN THIS ROOM AND THEN MYSELF!

WATER, EARTH, FIRE, AIR!

Oh, but I'm probably gonna have to wait a while before I get to see this, right?

FEBRUARY 22ND?! THAT'S REALLY NOT THAT LONG! I WAS EXPECTING TO HAVE TO WAIT ANOTHER SIX MONTHS!

So yeah, I'm excited for this.

Also, not in the trailer, but the Cabbage Merchant is supposed to be in the show.

[ourchu]

first love | kim taerae

masterlist for this series!

this specific one is based on 20th century girl, which i do recommend watching if you want a good cry-inducing movie. if anything is off i'm writing based off of memory!

word count: 698

staring at the sign above the store you essentially grew up in was interesting. you were now in your late 20's, early 30's and helping your parents move everything out of the store since they decided to finally retire. this decision was mainly spurred on by your sibling graduating university and starting their dream career.

“will you stop staring at the sign and come in and help your parents!” your mother was watching you from far inside the store, nagging you as always despite your age.

”i'm coming!” you called out, walking towards her. “where should i start?”

"you know, something came in the mail for you recently. i think i left it in the office." your mom mumbled, already distracted from her previous request.

but hey, you'll take any excuse to not do some heavy lifting.

“i'll go check it out really quick!” you made your way to your family's office, finding a package addressed to you on the desk.

tearing it open you found a vhs tape, scoffing in disbelief. “i haven't seen one of these in a while.”

you tried to see who sent the package but it seemed to be scratched out. you sighed, looking around and finding your old tv. lugging it onto the desk, you plugged it in and inserted the vhs.

“here goes nothing.” you pressed play, not knowing what to expect honestly.

the screen buzzed a bit before cutting to a beautiful sunset and a field of flowers. a small boy ran into frame, giggling and calling out a name you haven't heard in years.

“taerae! come on, leave the camera alone and play with me!”

a chuckle came from behind the camera, before he appeared. your heart raced seeing him after so long.

“hey, be patient! i promised i'd show y/n the sunset's in europe.” taerae smiled, holding his brother tightly.

“why couldn't y/n just come here to see it then? that way you don't have to take videos.” his younger brother whined, a visible pout forming on his face.

you chuckled, hands wiping below your eyes at the tears that had unconsciously began to fall.

”why don't you say hello to them? you'll get to know them soon enough, after all they're your future in law!” you rolled your eyes at taerae's bluntness.

“i don't want to...” taerae turned to his brother, hugging him tightly.

“c'mon! for me please!” taerae's smile had brought butterflies to your stomach, reminding you of when you'd last seen him.

“hello y/n... don't steal my brother from me!" taerae laughed at his brother, tickling him before the younger ran out of frame.

taerae ran up to the camera, big smile still on his face.

“y/n, we’re still in the 19th century here, but i think you're already in the 20th century huh? i guess i need to go to you now! i can't wait to show you this video so you can see how pretty it is here. one day, i promise, i'll bring you here. i want to share moments like this with you so we can look back at them when were older, reminisce about our youth.” you were just nodding along, smiling just as brightly as he was.

truth be told, you held some hatred for taerae. after he didn't contact you a few months into university, you felt heartbroken. even his friends couldn't reach out to him, also being blindsided.

“i miss you, i really do. i read your email today, you seem to enjoy university so far! don't go falling in love with anyone else though, i have hanbin keeping me updated as well. kidding, i have him looking over you since i can't." he sighed, you could see his hands shaking a bit. “but it's ok because i'll be back soon! so wait for me you hear me, wait for me in the 20th century. walt for me the y/n of the 20th century!”

the video cut to black, you could see your reflection in the tv. you were crying, holding yourself tightly.

kim taerae was your first love and always will be.

[i-myeoni-blogs]

Part 7

Pairing - Non-Idol Wooyoung x Fem Reader

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

"Sending Grace to Miss Kim was a good idea," Wooyoung remarked, settling in beside Y/N on the couch. "We really needed this time alone to talk about us."

Interlacing his fingers with hers, Y/N couldn't help but chuckle deeply. "Talking? How boring. I was hoping for something a bit more... romantic. Perhaps even a little passion," she teased.

"Oh, someone's feeling a bit frisky," Wooyoung teased back, a playful glint in his eyes.

"And why shouldn't I be? It's been five long years since we last saw each other," Y/N replied with a grin. Their banter was a familiar dance, a testament to the easy rapport they shared. "Unless, of course, you're suggesting you spent those years gallivanting about?" Y/N crossed her arms and pouted. “And here I thought you loved me.”

"Didn't you go on dates these past five years? Miss Kim told me about your little dates."

"Oh, did she not mention that those dates often ended abruptly? because I was preoccupied, drowning in my own tears over a certain someone," Y/N deadpanned.

"Ah, well I’m clean too. Because my time was consumed by reminiscing about a certain someone as well," Wooyoung retorted sharply.

"And yet here we are, engaging in mere conversation," Y/N remarked, rolling her eyes as she crossed her arms. "Perhaps you don't want me anymore. Is that it? Now that I'm a mother, my body has changed, and maybe I don't measure up to your past ideals. Perhaps you no longer desire me," she continued, her tone laced with a hint of insecurity. "After all, I have these stretch marks now, and my thighs aren't as slender as they once were. Surely, that's a turn-off for you, Woo."

"Whoa, hold on there. Where is this coming from? I'm still very much attracted to you, more than you realize," Wooyoung replied, reaching out to take Y/N's hand, but she pulled away.

"You're just saying that," she countered, avoiding his gaze.

"Don't believe me?" Wooyoung's tone softened. "Well then, I'll just have to show you."

With determination, Wooyoung rose from his seat, exhaling deeply before gently scooping Y/N up into his arms, bridal style, eliciting a surprised squeak from her.

"What are you doing?" she exclaimed, her eyes wide with astonishment.

"Showing you how much I love you, and how little those superficial concerns matter to me," Wooyoung replied, his smirk reflecting a newfound confidence. "Those stretch marks? I don't even notice them. And as for your thighs..." He paused, his smirk widening. "Let's just say they're a welcomed bonus in my book."

"No, no, no, no," Y/N protested with a playful wiggle, attempting to fend off his advances, her tone carrying a mix of amusement and mock seriousness. "Last time you had this smirk, and you put a baby inside me."

She couldn't help but smile as she lightly slapped his shoulders, her affection for him evident even in the midst of their banter.

"Well then, let's give Grace a sibling," he countered, his words laced with a teasing tone that only added to the warmth between them.

Maybe what they truly craved was a moment just for themselves, a pause from the chaos of the world, a sanctuary where they could bask in each other's love and find solace in each other's embrace. That night seemed to stretch on endlessly, a canvas painted with affection and whispered endearments, reminiscent of the days when their bond was unmarred by strife.

Wrapped in each other's arms, they drifted into a serene slumber, cocooned in a bubble of warmth and security as if nothing else mattered beyond the contours of their entwined bodies. But the morning's intrusion was inevitable, heralded by the gentle kiss of sunlight filtering through the curtains.

"Wooyoung, coffee," Y/N's voice, though near, seemed to emanate from a distant place as she stood by the bedside. "Wooyoung, wake up," her words echoed faintly as if carried away by a breeze until Wooyoung was jolted back to reality, gasping for air in the midst of his office.

His colleague stood before him, concern etched on her face as she offered a cup of coffee. "Chief Wooyoung, are you okay?" she inquired, noting the beads of sweat on his brow.

Managing to compose himself, Wooyoung brushed off her worries with a feeble excuse. "Yeah, I'm fine, just feeling a bit warm," he muttered, attempting to shake off the remnants of his dream.

"Hot, at the end of October?" she countered, her skepticism evident. "Sir, your AC is set to the lowest temperature, and yet you're sweating. Maybe you should take a break, you don't look well."

Ignoring the advice, Wooyoung insisted on pressing forward with his duties, though his words carried a weight that belied his true state of mind. "No, it's fine. It's almost 1 PM; we need to visit Chairman Seo and his girlfriend," he declared, masking his inner turmoil behind a facade of determination.

With a nod, his colleague acquiesced and left the office, leaving Wooyoung to grapple with the lingering echoes of his dream, and the unsettling feeling that perhaps he was not as fine as he claimed to be.

Chairman Seo and Yun Hee were deeply in love. Their comfy home, tucked away in a peaceful Georgian Bungalow, showed just how much Yun Hee wanted a house like the ones in Hollywood movies. And Chairman Seo? Well, he was head over heels for her, always eager to make her happy.

Living away from the busy town, they found comfort in each other, excitedly looking forward to their upcoming wedding. Even though Yun Hee had physically healed from past injuries, the emotional scars still lingered, making her quiet and distant, which worried Chairman Seo a lot. He was scared she might shut down completely.

When Wooyoung and his coworker finally got to Chairman Seo's lovely bungalow after a thirty-minute drive, they were stunned by how much more beautiful it was in person than in the pictures. Inside, it felt like stepping onto a Hollywood movie set, with lots of doors and pretty curtains swaying gently in the breeze, adding to the house's charm.

As they were guided by a smartly dressed servant, Wooyoung's coworker couldn't help but admire how well the household staff worked together. Eventually, they reached the office where Chairman Seo was waiting, the excitement in the air almost tangible.

"Chairman Seo has been waiting for you," the servant said as he opened the door, inviting Wooyoung in, where an important meeting was about to begin.

Chairman Seo, a young tycoon whose wealth rivaled the gleam of Seoul's skyline, had built his empire from humble beginnings, fueled by his own sweat and the modest support of his parents. Despite not towering over his surroundings, his presence commanded attention, his sturdy frame a testament to his resilience and determination. As Wooyoung entered the expansive office, Chairman Seo gestured for him to take a seat with polite grace.

"Please, Wooyoung, make yourself comfortable," Chairman Seo said warmly, his voice carrying a subtle authority softened by genuine hospitality. Wooyoung returned the gesture with a smile, settling into the chair opposite Chairman Seo alongside his coworker.

"You specifically requested my presence for this matter, sir. Might I inquire as to the reason?" Wooyoung asked, his tone respectful yet curious, reflecting both his professionalism and his eagerness to understand the task at hand.

"Hey, just call me Changbin," Chairman Seo grinned warmly, leaning back in his chair. With a flick of his finger, he pressed the button on his desk, its distant chime signaling the arrival of a woman who had been escorting Wooyoung and his coworker.

"Julie, could you please bring us some refreshments? Thanks a bunch," he said, watching her nod before she slipped out of the room. Turning back to Wooyoung, he continued, his tone serious yet tinged with urgency.

"Wooyoung, you're already up to speed on the situation," he began, noting Wooyoung's nod of understanding. "Unlike other business bigwigs, I don't have connections in the police department. I only know one person, Yongbok. When I reached out to him for help, he pointed me in your direction, mentioning your handling of Mr. Lee's case. I've heard good things, so without hesitation, I asked for your assistance. Please, help me out here, Wooyoung. I need those scoundrels behind bars or... well, let's just say, I need justice served."

Changbin's words were laden with determination and a hint of vengeance as he spoke of the three foreigners who had wrecked Yun Hee's life, Changbin's fiancée. Wooyoung grasped the gravity of the situation.

"And right now, I'm putting my trust in you because Yongbok vouches for you," Changbin added, his gaze unwavering as he looked at Wooyoung. Wooyoung returned the gaze, nodding in assurance that he would handle the case with utmost care and dedication.

"I called you here for two important reasons," Changbin began, sounding both careful and concerned. "Yun Hee is now at a point where we can try to talk to her, but she really doesn't want to leave where she is. That's why I asked you to come."

Yun Hee had been getting treatment for a whole month to help her deal with the terrible things she went through. During this time, she kept to herself and didn't want to talk to anyone. It was hard to get her to open up, even though she might have information that could help us solve the case. Right now, all we have are the short video clips from the security cameras.

"And what's the second reason?" There was a tense feeling in the room as the question hung in the air.

Changbin took a moment, thinking about how to explain. He let out a breath and said, "We'll talk about that later. For now, let's focus on getting Yun Hee to talk."

With that, Changbin got up from his chair and walked to the door. It was the entrance to his office from his home. Crossing that threshold meant leaving personal matters behind and dealing with the serious job at hand. As he reached for the door handle, he felt the weight of responsibility pressing down on him, reminding him of the tough road ahead.

In a hushed tone, Wooyoung's coworker uttered, “Chairman is so different from what I had imagined him to be.” The words carried a hint of surprise and realization. “I thought he would be some intimidating businessman, old and gruff.”

Changbin, positioned near the door that linked his office to the rest of the workspace, overheard the conversation. “Yeah, I hear that a lot.” He gently maneuvered a wheelchair, with Yun Hee seated upon it, into the room. Her expression betrayed a mixture of fear and apprehension. After a month confined to her room, stepping out before someone who wasn't part of her immediate family was an unfamiliar and nerve-wracking experience for Yun Hee.

Wooyoung caught the frightened look in her eyes the moment he stepped into the room. Yun Hee, clutching Changbin's hand, seemed to be seeking reassurance in the grip of her friend. It was a look that stirred a familiar ache in Wooyoung's heart—a blend of vulnerability, fear, and a glimmer of hope. He had seen that same expression on Y/N's face before she disappeared.

Despite the urge to avert his gaze from Yun Hee's distress, Wooyoung knew he couldn't. She needed reassurance, a sense of safety, and he was determined to provide it. With a polite smile, he introduced himself gently, "Hello, Yun Hee. I'm Wooyoung. You can trust me, I promise not to breathe a word of this to anyone."

Whether it was the warmth in Wooyoung's voice or the sincerity behind his words, Yun Hee seemed to find solace in his presence. She began to share everything, not omitting even the smallest detail about the three foreigners she had encountered. "I heard them saying, 'Let's go before we miss the last bus,'" Yun Hee disclosed.

Wooyoung's mind immediately latched onto the clue. "The last bus... They must have headed downtown on a blue bus," he deduced aloud, his colleague nodding in agreement beside him.

"Yes, especially on a strike day with limited bus services," his colleague added. "That narrows down our search area."

"We'll focus our efforts there then," Wooyoung affirmed, a glint of determination in his eyes. He knew they were onto something substantial. The urgency of the situation fueled his resolve to track down those responsible and bring justice for Yun Hee. "Thank you, Yun Hee, this has helped us to narrow down our investigation. We appreciate you for taking this step," Wooyoung said with genuine gratitude, a warm smile on his face. It was a small breakthrough, but it meant they were moving forward, and that was everything to him.

Wooyoung turned to Changbin, acknowledging his contribution too. "We should go now, it’s better that we start our work soon."

Changbin offered to escort them out. He guided Yun Hee towards the bedroom first before returning to Wooyoung and his colleague. "Thank you, Wooyoung. I was at a loss about who to reach out to," Changbin confessed, his voice edged with gratitude and regret. "And," he paused as they reached the outside door, "I heard about your wife and daughter. Still, you are helping us. Thank you so much. I'm so sorry."

Wooyoung's response was firm but laced with emotion. "It's okay, Mr. Seo."

Changbin hesitated, considering Wooyoung's situation. "Wooyoung, the second thing I wanted to say was, it’s okay if you withdraw yourself from this case. I'll understand because of your wife and your daughter..."

Wooyoung cut him off with a tight smile. "It's fine, Mr. Seo. I'm in this case, and I'll solve it. About Y/N and Grace, I know their case is in good hands. They'll find her."

Changbin sensed the struggle behind Wooyoung's words, the unspoken fear and hope intertwined. "We should go, Mr. Seo."

“Changbin.”

"Yeah, Changbin." Wooyoung and his colleague left the premises, heading back to their office to discuss the new lead. This clue was vital, and Wooyoung felt a renewed determination to bring the case to a close, for Y/N and Grace, and for himself.

As Wooyoung approached the police station, he felt a curious twist of fate in the air as he stepped through the station doors. And maybe, just maybe, heaven and earth were both working in his favor that day.

Inside, a scene caught his attention. His team, usually engrossed in paperwork or discussions, was gathered around a man—a rather elderly man—who appeared to be recounting something with great enthusiasm. The officers listened intently, their expressions a mix of curiosity and interest. It was a peculiar sight, like a huddle of eager students around a seasoned storyteller.

Wooyoung approached quietly, observing the animated exchange. As he drew nearer, his team noticed him and straightened up respectfully. "What’s going on here?" Wooyoung inquired his voice a blend of curiosity and authority.

One of the officers stepped forward, his face bright with a hint of excitement. "Sir, we've got a lead," he announced, gesturing towards the elderly man who now turned to face Wooyoung, a warm smile spreading across his weathered features.

"I was coming back from the grocery store when I saw this man in a striking black and gold jacket load three foreigners into his van and drive off," the old man recounted, his voice soft with a touch of concern.

Wooyoung and his team were now gathered in his office, listening intently. "You witnessed all of this?" Wooyoung inquired, leaning forward with a serious expression. The old man nodded solemnly. "About a month ago," Wooyoung clarified, seeking confirmation. Again, the old man nodded, his weathered face reflecting the weight of his memory.

"Why wait a whole month to come forward?" Wooyoung probed gently.

The old man shifted uncomfortably under Wooyoung's scrutiny, his eyes darting around nervously. "I didn't think much of it at the time. I thought they might be university students. Oh, my poor eyes," he lamented. "It was only after I saw the news about the missing foreigners that it clicked. I recognized one of them. Sir, I'm quite poor—I have to think twice before paying my television bill. That's why it took me so long."

"Can you show us where this happened?" Wooyoung asked, his tone softening with understanding.

"Absolutely," nodded the old man with a relieved smile, grateful that his concerns were being taken seriously. They quickly made arrangements to visit the location, Wooyoung's investigative team poised for further exploration.

The old man guided them to the downtown area, which appeared quite run-down with its dim lighting and poorly constructed houses. He stepped off the van first, followed closely by Wooyoung and the other officers. As they walked, the old man paused, surveying the surroundings before pointing to a spot on the ground.

"Right here, the van came to a stop," he explained, gesturing towards the pavement. "And I was standing over there at a distance." He motioned back in the direction they had come from. "My house is just over there," he continued, pointing to a dark silhouette nearby. "It was so dark that night, but I could make out the jacket distinctly because it was different—a black jacket adorned with golden cherry blossom embroidery."

Wooyoung and his team listened attentively, nodding as they absorbed the details. The old man's earnestness was evident as he recounted the incident, his voice tinged with a mixture of concern and determination.

Wooyoung glanced around at the downtown streets, noticing how deserted they seemed. The CCTV cameras, which were rarely operational in this area, were predictably out of order. He knew that some people intentionally tampered with them, hoping to get arrested just for a warm place to sleep. As expected, tonight they were useless.

"It's been a whole month, and we still have nothing," Wooyoung muttered, frustration evident in his voice. The heavy rain that night had likely washed away any potential clues.

"You remember the jacket, right?" Wooyoung asked, turning to an elderly man standing nearby. "Could you describe it again? Maybe it'll spark something, anything."

“By the way, may I ask who these foreigners were?” the old man inquired earning a glare from Wooyoung. “Never mind.”

“They were criminals.”

The old man nodded solemnly, and one of the officials stepped forward, ready to record any details he could provide.

The day flew by in a blur, with the AI artist quickly handed a rough sketch and brief details to craft a possible design for the jacket. Meanwhile, the investigative team immersed themselves once again in the case, dissecting every detail, trying to piece together what might have transpired. They were on a mission to track down the bus driver from that fateful day, and fortunately—or unfortunately—they eventually located him.

However, the driver's memory was a dead end. It had been a month since the incident, and all he could recall was dropping off those passengers downtown. He mentioned that the three foreigners had hurriedly disembarked, perhaps because of the rain, but he hadn't thought much of it at the time.

Amidst this flurry of activity, Wooyoung found himself in his office, seeking solace with closed eyes. He was attempting to sink into the embrace of his comfortable chair, savoring the cool breeze from the AC.

"Woo, I love you," Y/N whispered, resting her head on Wooyoung's warm, bareback and planting a soft kiss on his shoulder. Wooyoung chuckled, responding that he loved her even more.

Feeling playful, Y/N wrapped her arms around him from behind, burying her face in the crook of Wooyoung's neck, recalling just how ticklish he was almost everywhere. Without hesitation, she began tickling his stomach, causing Wooyoung to squirm under her touch.

Their bodies pressed close, and Wooyoung couldn't hold back the laughter as Y/N's playful assault continued. Finally, he managed to turn around, swiftly pinning Y/N beneath him, and gently restraining her wrists above her head. "You've become quite the troublemaker," he teased, his breath warm against her face.

"Well, I'm picking up a few tricks from Grace," Y/N replied with a mischievous glint in her eyes, prompting a deep, joyful laugh from Wooyoung. As he looked at her, Y/N gazed back, studying his features as if she were memorizing them, a hint of worry shadowing her expression. Wooyoung sensed her unease and released her wrists, leaning over her but keeping his arms at her sides.

"Hey, what's on your mind?" Wooyoung asked, his tone now filled with concern.

Y/N chuckled softly before speaking, "I missed you, missed this face, this glow," her eyes fixed on Wooyoung's warm, sunset-lit features. "So warm and loving." A tear welled up, escaping down her cheek.

"Please don't cry," Wooyoung whispered, his thumb brushing Y/N's cheek tenderly. "We've been through so much pain. I can't bear to lose you again."

"You have no idea how much I love you," Wooyoung continued, his forehead touching hers gently. "I'd go to hell and back to find you if anyone tried to take you away. You're mine."

"I'll never leave you," Y/N whispered back, her lips finding him in a deep, loving kiss. But their moment was cut short by a sudden knock. Y/N quickly pushed Wooyoung away, sitting up and grabbing her clothes to dress before anyone entered, Wooyoung did the same. "I think it's Grace," Y/N remarked with a hint of urgency.

Wooyoung was in the midst of getting ready when the unexpected knocking on his door startled him. "But she was supposed to come tomorrow," he muttered to himself, pulling up his pants hastily. He glanced around for his shirt, which he had casually tossed aside earlier.

As he hurriedly slipped on his shirt, Wooyoung called out, "Baby, are you dressed?" He chuckled, assuming Y/N was struggling with her own clothes. The knocking grew louder, making him feel uneasy. "Baby? Y/N?" Wooyoung continued, expecting a playful response

However, when he turned around, Y/N was nowhere to be seen. "Y/N? Where did you go?" His voice filled with a mix of confusion and concern, he checked the bathroom and scanned the room, but there was no sign of her. "Y/N?" The knocking now seemed to echo, causing his head to spin.

Panic started to set in as the room felt suffocatingly silent. Wooyoung struggled to catch his breath, his chest tightening inexplicably. Gripping his neck, he felt a wave of dizziness wash over him. Just then, the door swung open. Wooyoung blinked rapidly as he came to, his chest rising and falling with each heavy breath.

Another dream about Y/N slipping away—each time, the pain felt fresh, cutting through the haze of sleep. His colleague, sensing his distress, hurried over and knelt beside him, gently stroking his palm to soothe him.

"Chief, it's okay. You're okay," she reassured him, rising swiftly to fetch a bottle of water. Wooyoung accepted it gratefully, drinking down the cool liquid in one go.

"A nightmare?" she asked softly, receiving a weary nod from Wooyoung.

"I think you need to rest, Chief," she suggested with genuine concern. "You hardly ever leave the office, and even when you do go home, I imagine you don't get much sleep. You're pushing yourself too hard."

"I'm fine," Wooyoung replied in a stern voice.

"No, you are not, Chief. To hell with the honorifics, Wooyoung. You need to think straight, be rational, and okay," Hyeri said firmly. Wooyoung looked at her with surprise—it was the first time she had talked to him informally.

"And you need to focus here. Dammit, Mingi is looking into Y/N's case. So be here, you lovesick gentleman."

"Mind your language and your own business, Hyeri!" Wooyoung shouted.

"I am minding my business. I need our office to be a little more positive so we can solve this case quickly. But sorry, Chief, ever since Y/N left—and I'm not just talking about a month ago—you've been the same as you were five years ago," she retorted, her voice rising. "And don't mind me, but I think this time she might not come back. So get your senses back."

"Get out!" Wooyoung shouted.

"That's what you do, isn't it? When things don't go your way, you become like this. You know, the main problem isn't Y/N—it's you. I wish Y/N never comes back," Hyeri growled as she stomped out of the cabin, leaving distraught Wooyoung alone in his office.

Alone in the quiet of the night, Wooyoung knelt down, overwhelmed by thoughts swirling in his mind. Hyeri's words echoed, planting seeds of doubt that gnawed at him. He left the police station long after everyone had gone home, the night duty officers now the only company left. Going home or staying at the office were both out of the question. He felt lost, unsure of where to turn or who to reach out to.

So, almost on autopilot, Wooyoung found himself gravitating towards the nearest club. Sitting at the bar, he ordered a whiskey neat, hoping it might dull the ache inside him. Glass after glass, he drank as if seeking solace at the bottom of each one. But instead of relief, the memories he wanted to escape flooded back stronger than ever.

The room spun around him, faces morphing into haunting images of Y/N and Grace. His body felt heavy, his mind clouded with the alcohol's embrace. The bartender, noticing his state, offered assistance, suggesting a cab. Wooyoung declined, stumbling out into the chilly night air.

Walking unsteadily down the street, he caught the disapproving glances of passersby, their eyes speaking volumes of silent judgment. Each step felt like a battle against his own body, the alcohol numbing his senses but failing to numb his pain.

Then, just as he stepped onto the pedestrian walk, he collided with someone. The man's voice cut through the haze, icy with irritation. Wooyoung blinked, trying to focus on the stranger obscured by a mask. He mumbled an apology, feeling like an intruder in the ordinary world around him.

The man's cold demeanor softened slightly as he chuckled, a mix of amusement and resignation. "Watch where you're going, buddy. Some of us still have places to be," he remarked before continuing on his way, muttering under his breath about the state of things nowadays.

As Wooyoung was about to take another step, the world around him suddenly dimmed, like someone had turned down the brightness on a screen. Before he knew it, he was collapsing right onto the pedestrian walk. The darkness seemed to envelop him, and a groan escaped his lips—not the kind of groan from hitting the ground, but one born from the ache in his heart.

Wooyoung lay there, feeling the weight of more than just his body. Thoughts swirled like distant sirens, distant flashes of worry. He knew this wasn't just physical pain. The ground beneath him felt unforgiving, matching the turmoil within.

Passersby paused, concern etching lines on their faces as they approached. One voice, gentle yet urgent, broke through the haze. "Are you alright? Can we help?" A hand reached out, offering both stability and comfort.

Wooyoung managed a weak nod "Take your time," another voice offered, calm and reassuring. "We're here."

For a moment, the darkness lightened just a bit. Wooyoung closed his eyes, taking a deep breath, allowing himself to relax for a bit. The pain in his heart didn't vanish, but somehow, it felt a bit more bearable maybe because of the alcohol in his system.

Part 8