#less ! jaeyoung

[noelxbe]

coming for the snacks

noel was honestly not too interested in halloween. back in canada he’d follow around his sister as she went trick or treating, that tradition vanished once they moved to korea. but though noel wasn’t too interested in halloween, he still showed up for axis labels halloween party. he’d been so busy lately, all he was doing was work and practicing for project green, it was nice to get a break from it.

he’d secretly wanted to sneak in some alcohol, but at last decided that was a bad idea.

“i’m enjoying the snacks” he says, followed by a shrug before he turns to look at jaeyoung ( @bejaeyoung ). “have you tried these yet?” he says as he hands the other a cupcake made to look like a pumpkin. he looks down at his costume (which he hates), dressed as dora the explorer for today “guess i’m exploring snacks today”.

[slytherinshua]

DECKS THE HALLS : slytherinshua's holiday/3000 follower event.

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[ this is event is now closed ]

note : so we are not quite at 3000 followers yet BUT we are 19 away as i type this (now officially surpassed 3k!!!!!!!!), so i decided to just post this event not as a joint holiday and milestone celebration because i'm super excited about this !! thank you so much for 3k, i love every single one of you and hope that you will enjoy participating in this event and reading the fics that come out of it 🥹🥹🥹

rules : pick 1 idol from the list below along with 1 prompt. the idol list is organized in group name alphabetical order for easy navigation. after you have picked your idol and prompt, send in an ask with your request (ex. taehyun with #1, fresh flowers). i will cross off both lists as the requests fill up (no duplicate idols or prompts will be accepted, and no requests with multiple prompts listed will be accepted). a drabble will be written for as many requests as i can handle. you are welcome to send in multiple requests, but be aware that not all may be able to be completed. (i would appreciate if second requests be sent in a separate ask from the first ones so it's easy to keep track of). with all that being said, thank you so much for 3000 followers i love you all <3

disclaimer : there may not be every idol from a group on the list. this is either because i don't feel as confident writing for them, or i'm simply not as inspired to write for them as other members. it is not because i love the member less than the others.

ampers&one - na kamden, choi jiho, mackiah mercer, or kim seungmo

astro - lee dongmin, park minhyuk, or yoon sanha

cix - kim yonghee, bae jinyoung, or yoon hyunsuk

lucy - shin yechan, choi sangyeop, jo wonsang, or shin gwangil

mcnd - song minjae, no huijun, or bang junhyuk

nct wish - oh sion or kim daeyoung

nomad - hong doeui, shin kangsu, or jeong junho

onf - kim hyojin, lee changyun, lee seungjun, shim jaeyoung, park minkyun, or mizuguchi yuto

seventeen - wen junhui, jeon wonwoo, or xu minghao

sf9 - kim youngbin, lee jaeyoon, lee sanghyuk, baek juho, kim seokwoo, yoo taeyang or kim youngkyun

the boyz - kim younghoon, jacob bae, kevin moon, or choi chanhee

tomorrow x together - choi yeonjun, kang taehyun, or hueningkai

tws - shin junghwan, han zhen, or han jihoon

verivery - lee dongheon, jo gyehyeon, ju yeonho, kim yongseung, or yoo kangmin

victon - han seungwoo, kang seungsik, lim sejun, choi byungchan, or jung subin

wayv - qian kun, ten lee, or liu yangyang

&team - koga yudai, byun euijoo, nakakita yuma, asakura jo, takayama riki, or hirota riki

1 - fresh flowers

2 - sprigs of lavender

3 - folded laundry

4 - crackling fireplace

5 - bright snow

6 - shining northern lights

7 - minty breath

8 - smudged lipstick

9 - matching rings

10 - pastel sundresses

11 - wet swimsuits

12 - hand-knitted hats

13 - ripped boxing gloves

14 - matching tattoos

15 - unspoken promises

16 - dry aged wine

17 - freshly brewed coffee

18 - burnt toast

19 - smooth piano keys

20 - tear stains on a pillow

21 - warmth of skin

22 - gleaming gemstones

23 - ointments and bandages

24 - scarred hands

25 - cuts and bruises

26 - a sharp sword

27 - a rusty dagger

28 - a torn dress

29 - a velvet suit

30 - a stolen jersey

31 - a scuffed motorcycle helmet

32 - a computer screen’s light reflected onto skin

33 - a closet under the stairs

34 - a comforting embrace

35 - a hand-written birthday card

36 - a spell unknowingly cast

37 - a secret heir to the throne

38 - a hot bullet

39 -a favour done in secret

40 - a flood of memories once forgotten

41 - a flushed face and breathless body

42 - a hint of perfume

43 - an empty basketball court lit by street lights

44 - soap suds slipping down one’s shoulder

45 - combing a hand through one’s hair

46 - arms clasped around one’s waist

47 - hands chilly from the cold

48 - thumbs running over one’s jawline

49 - rain running down a cold cheek

50 - knots worked out of one’s shoulder

51 - waking up from a bad dream

52 - huddling under one blanket together

completed fics :

1 - hueningkai + gleaming gemstones

2 - wonwoo + arms clasped around one's waist

3 - jun + thumbs running over one's jawline

4 - jo + bright snow

5 - sangyeop + scarred hands

6 - minghao + a scuffed motorcycle helmet

7 - euijoo + a stolen jersey

8 - yudai + rain running down a cold cheek

9 - kangmin + a hot bullet

10 - yangyang + matching tattoos

11 - mackiah + pastel sundresses

12 - kamden + a favour done in secret

13 - sion + waking up from a bad dream

14 - hanjin + ointments and bandages

15 - jinyoung + smudged lipstick

16 - jihoon + a comforting embrace

17 - sanha + hand knitted hat

18 - yeonjun + folded laundry

19 - yuto + warmth of skin

20 - younghoon + combing a hand through one's hair

21 - jaeyoon + knots worked out of one's shoulders

22 - junho + wet swimsuits

23 - shinyu + burnt toast

[carmenlire]

Semantic Error Omegaverse AU

Been back on my Semantic Error bullshit the past week and I can NOT stop thinking about how perfectly these two would fit an omegaverse au like i'm obsessed!! Jaeyoung is obviously an alpha, however, a lot of people assume that Sangwoo is a beta but he is, in fact, an omega! So enjoy 4.5k words of me describing in excruciating detail what I would write if I wrote this fic <3

I can't decide between making this a world where everyone wears scent blockers/is on suppressants or letting Jaeyoung know immediately that Sangwoo's an omega (because betas don't have to wear scent blockers so wearing them would be a dead giveaway but I could make the sleight of hand work with suppressants HOWEVER I think a core part of this au would be that people who look at Sangwoo see a cold, driven man and just assume he's a beta).

Obviously, I would make this au deliciously tropey and fit in ALL of That Good Shit but I am very taken with the idea/exploration that Sangwoo actually enjoys being an omega. I think masking his subgender would be useful to him but when it's just him or his friends/family, he is very comfortable with who he is-- he obviously does not believe in any of the stereotypes/misconceptions that paint omegas as inferior or needing protecting or only good for one thing or whatever cliche you wanna throw in there.

Alright, we'll say unmated people are expected to be on suppressants so that solves that issue-- this comes with the caveat that omegas/alphas still have two cycles a year in order to keep everything properly maintained (compared to idk the regular 4 cycles a year). I'll hc that it's like a daily pill and it wears off toward the end of the day and that's when individuals may choose scent blockers if they're going to be out longer but obviously in this au, like going to a club with a scent on display would be like The Whole Point in trying to attract someone so i'll digress.

ANYWAY like I said, Sangwoo is very driven and still comes off as very cold so most people assume he's a beta. That suits Sangwoo just fine. He's in no mood for romance and finds alphas fucking insufferable-- always posturing, acting like they're god's gift to the world (to omegas specifically) and he doesn't have time for distractions. however, and I personally think this is important to tie his personality into this AU– he actively enjoys being an omega. 

His parents knew before he presented that he’d be an omega– he enjoyed nesting with his father and if he cares about someone, has a habit of doting on them. Sangwoo knows and values the importance of biology right so it fits that when he does have free time, then he indulges shamelessly in his nature. So, for this AU, I love to think that his bed is a very warm and inviting nest, that he enjoys baking (like I’ve written in previous fics, it fits his analytical mind AND he was a sweet tooth and for this, it’s a way he cares for people). 

And while he’s never had a partner for his heats, Sangwoo does enjoy them. With an acknowledgement that this could get a little messy re: subgenders/biology, this is first and foremost a pure fluff fic and so–

I think heats, particularly for this verse, can be both sexual (need to procreate) and simply biological (need to bond with mate). Again in keeping with the show, Sangwoo puts an abundance of meaning on biology. So while he doesn’t have a mate to bond or produce offspring with during his heats as an unmated omega, there’s still something about them that is deeply meaningful to him.

I hc that they’re less sexual for him (until Jaeyoung lol) and serves as more of an opportunity to connect with his own inner omega. He spends a few days every six months resting in his nest– or broadly, his apartment, where he allows himself to not think about homework or anything. It’s just him being. He bakes, sleeps, watches tv, reads… it makes him feel incredibly centered. And yes, he does own a knotting toy and it is ONLY during his heats that he begrudgingly admits that maybe alphas do have a use after all lmao.

To bring Jaeyoung into it and get this AU started properly, Jaeyoung figures Sangwoo’s a beta– though, the instant before Sangwoo opens his mouth and flays him alive, Jaeyoung does have the thought that Sangwoo has to be an omega– small (much smaller than Jaeyoung at least even if he’s a tall omega), beautiful, and there’s just something about him that compels Jaeyoung.

Of course, after that first conversation, Jaeyoung is compelled by Sangwoo, alright– to be an absolute menace and get his revenge. Lol.

The two get closer, following canon, and Jaeyoung doesn’t realize that Sangwoo is actually an omega until after he saves him from the Quickst asshole. In this AU, Sangwoo wanted to leave because the guy was being a dick, yes, but also because he was well aware that it was getting late and his suppressants were about to wear off– hence, his scent would start to escape.

He refuses to admit that Jaeyoung stepping in kinda make his omega preen– they’re in tune but Sangwoo still thinks that his omega can be a bit baffling (though, he’s only started to really think so since Jaeyoung stepped into the picture).

That’s also mostly the reason Sangwoo doesn’t want to let Jaeyoung into his apartment. He doesn’t let people into his apartment because he’s private yes but also because he knows his scent is undeniable. Still, he’s not an asshole (and, both he and his omega trust Jaeyoung for…. Some reason) so he does end up letting him in.

Jaeyoung is immediately overwhelmed as soon as he steps inside Sangwoo’s apartment. He’d thought, for a minute when he grabbed Sangwoo’s hand and dragged him out of the bar, that he’d caught the faintest edge of a mouthwatering scent but he’d been preoccupied. It becomes glaringly obvious now, though, that it was Sangwoo. That vague scent from the bar is nothing compared the rich, overwhelming scent he’s confronted with now.

If I lean into the trope, I guess I’d make it something that could be sharp– citrus, maybe, that can be sour and sharp but turns sweet and soft when Sangwoo is comfortable. I think that would fit his personality. For Jaeyoung, definitely something earthy, complimentary to citrus– though I’m not sure what that would necessarily be lmao.

Anyway, Jaeyoung is reeling but Sangwoo is business as usual though Jaeyoung swears he sees the shell of his ear turning red. Jaeyoung is a gentleman, though, despite how he’s acted with Sangwoo and he doesn’t comment on the scent (it would be declasse and Sangwoo is actually helping him, he’s let Jaeyoung in and– especially now that he knows he’s an omega– it’s an incredibly meaningful gesture that Jaeyoung and his alpha appreciate).

He doesn’t bring it up until Sangwoo is tending to the cut on his arm and this is the conversation that turns the tide. Jaeyoung is tentative but undeniably curious, asking Sangwoo why he hides his subgender, letting everyone assume he’s a beta. Jaeyoung is surprised, yet again, when Sangwoo matter-of-factly tells him that he doesn’t hate his subgender, actually enjoys it. It isn’t an inconvenience or whatever. It’s something Sangwoo likes about himself.

They’re both stripped down in the quiet of Sangwoo’s living room and come closer to reaching that middle ground. Through it all, Jaeyoung can’t stop thinking about how delicious Sangwoo’s scent is and how he was right to make that long ago guess. It’s so obvious, especially now that Sangwoo isn’t wearing a hat– his lush mouth, delicate features, making it so clear.

Jaeyoung had a red hoodie and leaves it at Sangwoo’s that night. He might not realize it at the time but it’s, obviously, his alpha’s way of staking a claim on Sangwoo, placing his scent in the omega’s space.

Jaeyoung figures Sangwoo will return it to him the next day and forgets about it when he doesn’t.

Sangwoo for his part, closes the door behind Jaeyoung when Yuna calls and slumps against it. It was so late and Jaeyoung’s own suppressants had started wearing off. Sangwoo had never cared for alpha scents, despite supposed biological compatibility– they were too aggressive, altogether unpleasant and stinging in his nose. 

Jaeyoung’s, however, was different. It wasn’t dark or musky but something lush, deep with just a hint of sweetness that made Sangwoo inexplicably want to bury his nose in Jaeyoung’s neck to tease it out further, until it was all he could smell, surrounding him.

He’d expected Jaeyoung to be an ass about finding out he was an omega. While Sangwoo didn’t hide it, he let people make their assumptions. Jaeyoung had surprised him, though.

When Sangwoo finally straightens, his eyes immediately lock on the red hoodie laying over the arm of his couch. He frowns deeply, glaring at it. He should return it to Jaeyoung tomorrow. 

He doesn’t.

And a few weeks later, when Sangwoo’s preheat starts, he’s heading out the door when his gaze snags on the hoodie, still in the exact same spot. It’s Thursday and he’s glad that his heat won’t disrupt his classes this time around. Thanking the fact that he always has a buffer in his schedule, Sangwoo reaches out for the hoodie and raises it to his nose. Jaeyoung’s scent isn’t nearly as present as it was that night but it’s still detectable when he buries his face in it. Something in him calms, preens a little at the scent of an alpha who Sangwoo can admit he… doesn’t quite despise.

It is fall, the morning chilly, Sangwoo rationalizes as he takes his backpack off to put the hoodie on. Plus, Jaeyoung had told him just yesterday that, unfortunately, he had a meeting with an advisor and wouldn’t be able to annoy him today, so there’s no chance that Jaeyoung will find out that Sangwoo is wearing this monstrosity of a hoodie.

As soon as he slips it on, Sangwoo finds himself letting out the quietest purr. It’s oversized, hanging down to mid-thigh, and feels like it’s wrapping him in pure warmth. Lifting the hood to cover his hair, Sangwoo feels content, like going to class during preheat won’t be so miserable after all (for all he enjoys being an omega, it is sometimes inconvenient– like when he’s just in preheat, hoodie able to hide the scent blockers, and has to go to class because there’s a quiz).

It’s just his luck that he leaves class, hoodie still over his head, to run into a wall– that turns out to be Jang Jaeyoung. Startled, Sangwoo’s head whips up and he immediately stills at the look in Jaeyoung’s eyes.

Jaeyoung, for his part, wrapped his meeting up earlier than expected and found himself on the way to meet Sangwoo almost subconsciously. If he thought his need to bother Sangwoo was bad before he found out he was an omega, it’s been downright awful now that he knows. Jaeyoung finds himself seeking Sangwoo out even more often, anytime he has a free moment and knows where Sangwoo is. Yuna calls him a whipped alpha and Jaeyoung can’t even defend himself. Now, seeing Sangwoo in his glaringly red hoodie– seeing an omega he can’t stop thinking about in his hoodie– Jaeyoung’s alpha wants nothing more than to press Sangwoo against the wall and scent him, cover him completely so that no one can see how cute Sangwoo looks while at the same time wanting to preen that Sangwoo deigned to wear something of his in public, at all really.

Sangwoo stiffly replies that he wore it because it was cold this morning and it was sitting right there on the couch. Jaeyoung has his Sangwoo Smile on his face, the one that’s so wide it has to hurt, eyes crinkled in pure delight. They’ve grown closer the past few weeks, guards/defenses inching down, and so Jaeyoung warns Sangwoo, “I’m going to touch you now,” and lays a surprisingly gentle arm over Sangwoo’s shoulders.

To his surprise, Sangwoo doesn’t shake him off. Instead, he leans into Jaeyoung’s warmth– just a little but Jaeyoung, of course, notices. Something in him growls, protectively, happily, at the action.

Sangwoo doesn’t notice the stares as he and Jaeyoung make their way across campus. He knows he aced his quiz but a headache is building behind his eyes, a dull ache starting up in his middle. Typical preheat symptoms but still annoying. It’s cloudy, wind chilly, and he shivers deeper into Jaeyoung’s side, sleeves covering his hands and arms wrapped around his middle.

Jaeyoung looks down, frowning. Sangwoo looks even smaller like this and it’s adorable but unlike him. Looking closer, he sees a flush on Sangwoo’s cheeks.

“Sangwoo,” he asks, “Are you feeling okay?”

Sangwoo shrugs and explains matter-of-factly that his preheat has started.

Jaeyoung’s eyes widen though Sangwoo doesn’t see his reaction.

Jaeyoung isn’t sure what he’s feeling– there’s surprise, that Sangwoo just admitted his heat was right around the corner. He doesn’t know why, but Jaeyoung thought he’d be shy about it. There’s his baser reaction which he isn’t necessarily proud of but can admit, at least to himself– he has the immediate desire to be Sangwoo’s heat partner. Jaeyoung has a need to see what Sangwoo is like during his heat– is he as demanding as he is regularly or does it turn into neediness, edges softened?

Jaeyoung would like whatever way Sangwoo acts during his heat, he knows, but his curiosity is suddenly ignited like a wildfire. And yes, there’s the sudden visions of Sangwoo under him, eyes blurred with want.

But Jaeyoung’s also driven with a need to protect, to care for– and it’s this that he acts on. He steers Sangwoo off campus after asking when his heat will hit in earnest and Sangwoo replying the morning. It’s lunchtime now and Jaeyoung takes Sangwoo to a nearby restaurant.

Sangwoo doesn’t display his usual stubbornness, prickly exterior melting into something more agreeable as he seems willing enough to let Jaeyoung lead the way. It’s a nice change of pace, Jaeyoung can admit, but he knows he’d miss Sangwoo’s mulishness if this was how it always was lol.

They sit at a small table in the corner and Jaeyoung knows the ahjumma who runs the place. She coos over Sangwoo and Jaeyoung’s surprised, again, when Sangwoo lets her.

She returns with hearty portions and teases them both– something about Jaeyoung finding the cutest omega in Seoul or telling Sangwoo that if Jaeyoung proves to be a useless alpha to let her know and she’ll straighten him up.

The food is hot and smells delicious and Jaeyoung doesn’t even think before he reaches for the first mandu and lifts it up to Sangwoo’s mouth. Sangwoo, for his part, does spare a moment to think about shoving Jaeyoung away. 

He rolls his eyes internally, thinks of Jaeyoung as an overzealous alpha– just because he knows he’s in preheat doesn’t mean he has to feed him what is this, the joseon era– but Sangwoo’s omega is closer to the surface than usual and all he really feels after a pinprick of annoyance is warmth. He feels a little miserable and he trusts this alpha– like him too, he can admit to himself if not aloud yet– and he accepts the bite of food from Jaeyoung’s chopsticks.

Jaeyoung’s lips part in surprise at Sangwoo’s easy acquiescence. His alpha and him watch Sangwoo chew carefully, pride and satisfaction in his eyes. The meal continues like that– Jaeyoung feeding Sangwoo the best pieces of chicken, the crispest bites of vegetables– until Sangwoo finally waves him away, full.

Jaeyoung swiftly finishes the meal off and it’s only when the check comes that a hint of Sangwoo’s usual snappishness reappears. He insists on paying, then at least paying half, but Jaeyoung doesn’t have any of it.

Sangwoo rolls his eyes at Jaeyoung being an annoying alpha but Jaeyoung doesn’t pay it any attention, just returning his arm to where it was resting over Sangwoo’s shoulders as he guides them out of the restaurant with a cheery wave to the ahjumma.

They makes small talk on the way back to their apartment building about a new movie or the upcoming deadline for Veggie Venturer. Sangwoo doesn’t even notice until they’re at his door that Jaeyoung had carried his backpack from the restaurant.

At Sangwoo’s door, Jaeyoung finds it even more difficult than usual to turn to his own door and leave Sangwoo. Sangwoo’s leaning against his door and Jaeyoung stands just in front of him.

They watch each other for a moment and Sangwoo has an urge to ask Jaeyoung something but it’s foolish, too much he knows. But still he wants it and so does his omega. His usual defenses are softened by preheat and by Jang Jaeyoung. He’s already learned that’s a devastating combination.

“Hyung,” he asks voice quiet and unsure.

Jaeyoung hums, eyes flitting from the fullness of Jaeyoung’s cheeks, to the way his hoodie sleeves completely cover Sangwoo’s hands. It’s too soon, Jaeyoung thinks, to look at Sangwoo and see him as mine.

“Will you scent me?”

That was not what Jaeyoung was expecting and his gaze snaps up to meet Sangwoo’s even as his alpha preens.

It’s not even a question and Jaeyoung hates the way Sangwoo’s gaze is shadowed with uncertainty, a hint of insecurity. It’s the first time he’s ever seen that look on Sangwoo and he never wants to see it again– displeased that it’s this question that would bring it out, like Jaeyoung wouldn’t love to, like he isn’t fighting the urge to immediately bury his face in Sangwoo’s neck.

He leans down and watches enraptured as the flush on Sangwoo’s cheek grows deeper. “Are you sure, Sangwoo? If this is the preheat talking, if you wouldn’t ask otherwise–”

“I’m sure,” comes Sangwoo’s voice, quiet but sure. He bites his lip, looking away. “I don’t know what it’s like for other omegas but I don’t– I’m still in possession of all my faculties. I wouldn’t ask if I didn’t want it.”

Jaeyoung is still for a moment before exhaling. He smiles, something softer than his usual smirking grin. “Then I’d love to, Sangwoo-ah.”

He goes to lean down just to be stopped by Sangwoo’s hand on his chest. Confused, Sangwoo just shakes his head and gestures to his door. “Not out here, hyung. It isn’t decent.”

Jaeyoung’s nodding along distractedly before the words catch up and he steels himself.

Because seeing a Sangwoo in preheat is a lot. Being asked to scent Sangwoo makes his head spin. But getting to scent Sangwoo in Sangwoo’s apartment– did he mention he’s in preheat? Omegas are notoriously protective of their spaces when they’re in heat and Jaeyoung knows the simple fact of Sangwoo asking him to scent him should have been clue enough but Sangwoo inviting him in, sends his heart skyrocketing.

As soon as the door opens, Jaeyoung inhales sharply. It isn’t overwhelming but it’s present– Sangwoo’s scent is deeper. Nothing like it will be during actual heat but the hint is there, something headier in the usual mouthwatering scent that Jaeyoung has only caught once.

Sangwoo closes the door, leaning against it again, this time inside the apartment. He peels the scent blocker off with little fuss, stuffing it in his pocket. He then reaches out, wraps careful fingers in the soft material of Jaeyoung’s sweater and pulls him closer, gently, like he’s afraid Jaeyoung doesn’t really want to come.

How preposterous, Jaeyoung thinks.

Before he can even open his mouth, Sangwoo is offering, “You can touch me, hyung,” and Jaeyoung spares a moment to wonder how he’s going to survive this.

Slowly, Jaeyoung wraps an arm low around Sangwoo’s back, stepping closer. He leans down and Sangwoo’s scent makes him dizzy already. It’s sweet, calm, and Jaeyoung has the overwhelming need to let it soak into him, wants to cover it with his own scent and see how they mingle. It’s made all the better by the fact that Sangwoo clearly wants this, too, that he asked Jaeyoung for his scent– that he wants Jaeyoung’s scent on him, at all but during his heat.

He can’t help the quiet grumble as his nose makes contact with Sangwoo’s neck. He takes his time, carefully presses against Sangwoo’s scent gland, and thanks to how close they are, Jaeyoung can feel Sangwoo melt into him.

Sangwoo tilts his neck to give him easier access and Jaeyoung lets loose a little more, touch firming up, incessant. He can smell the way his own scent intertwines with Sangwoo’s– something fresh and bright.

It takes him a moment to clue in but Sangwoo’s started purring, a hand lifted into Jaeyoung hair to keep him in place like Jaeyoung would want to be anywhere except right here, mind clouding over with Sangwoo’s scent.

They lose track of time but eventually Jaeyoung pulls back, dazed, just to see Sangwoo looking like he’s about to melt into the floor, pliant and soft.

“Thank you, hyung.”

Jaeyoung’s voice is low, hoarse. “Anytime, Sangwoo.”

Jaeyoung leaves just a few minutes later, taken aback but not at all unhappy when Sangwoo suddenly calls out and darts up to kiss his cheek before slamming the door in his face.

The weekend is torturous knowing Sangwoo’s in heat on the other side of the wall they share. He leaves food for him outside and tries to focus on a project he’s working on with Yuna.

It’s early the next week before he sees Sangwoo, who comes bearing a tray of brownies he made to thank Jaeyoung. And Jaeyoung doesn’t know it yet but Sangwoo baked them at the tail-end of his heat, still clearheaded but mind a little gooey at the edges. His focus at the time– the entire duration of his heat, really– had been Jaeyoung. He’d wanted to give Jaeyoung something, made with his own hands. He watches, more anxious than he lets on, as Jaeyoung’s obviously delighted by the unexpected treat. He immediately tries one and moans at how good it is, his usual goofball self. Sangwoo scoffs at his dramatic reaction but inside, his omega is deeply satisfied.

Jaeyoung starts courting Sangwoo a bit more overtly– really, he’d been doing it since the beginning, though he hadn’t realized. Again, this is pure fluff so a lot of his “revenge” was him backwards courting Sangwoo lmao.

Moving on, the first time Sangwoo lets Jaeyoung into his nest has got to be A Moment. Maybe it’s late at night and they just finished working on Veggie Venturer. They’re a couple in all but name only– Sangwoo has accepted all of Jaeyoung’s courting, though he might not necessarily realize it!! He wears Jaeyoung’s clothes, accepts his gifts, enjoys their time together in the same bone-deep way Jaeyoung does. Jaeyoung, for his part, is just content to take it at Sangwoo’s pace and take what he’s given. He knows the path they’re on and he’s in no particular rush as long as they heading the right way.

So it’s late at night and Sangwoo is tired and leaning against Jaeyoung from where they’re sitting on his couch. He says it’s time to rest and Jaeyoung rouses himself to head home but Sangwoo stops him, asks if he wants to spend the night.

Exhausted, Jaeyoung says sure, assuming he’ll be on the couch but then Sangwoo takes his hand and starts leading him into his bedroom and Jaeyoung can’t believe it. Suddenly wide awake, Sangwoo turns him toward the bathroom to get ready and he does in a daze. When he comes out, Sangwoo’s in bed– no, in his nest, and Jaeyoung’s heart simultaneously turns over and goes into overdrive.

The nest is surprisingly full, though maybe Jaeyoung should finally stop being so surprised at evidence that Sangwoo indulges happily in his omega nature.

Just in a tshirt and boxers, Jaeyoung stands next to the bed, unsure. It’s wellknown that absolutely no one is to enter an omega’s nest without their permission and sure, Sangwoo said he could sleep in his bed but what if he’s changed his mind–

His thoughts splinter when Sangwoo looks over his shoulder. “What are you waiting for, hyung?”

And, well, okay.

Gently, Jaeyoung climbs into Sangwoo’s nest. And fuck, if he thought Sangwoo’s scent was overwhelming before, it’s nothing to this. Sangwoo’s scent is concentrated deep into the blankets, surrounding them, and Jaeyoung feels lightheaded.

He lays down, breath shuddering as Sangwoo wiggles back into him, as he takes Jaeyoung’s arm and lays it over his waist.

Jaeyoung’s overwhelmed but still so exhausted and he falls asleep almost immediately.

The next morning, Sangwoo wakes up with his head on Jaeyoung’s chest and, still mostly asleep, finds himself searching for Jaeyoung’s scent gland. Jaeyoung’s scent mingled with his, in his nest, makes Sangwoo purr with satisfaction.

He never really understood when omegas talked about how satisfying it was to find a partner and figured it was just biological compatibility. Sangwoo feels that it’s more than that, though, that he does get it now. It makes his omega feel safe and warm. It makes Sangwoo happy. And it’s illogical and too fast but Sangwoo knows that his omega and him are starting to consider Jaeyoung his mate. Not now, but eventually.

Still half asleep, Sangwoo shifts until he can bury his nose in Jaeyoung’s scent and Jaeyoung wakes up to his omega, his Sangwoo, scenting him. He’s happy, giddy with the thought that Sangwoo is staking a claim on him, finally. That might not be his goal or even on his radar but it is undeniably a fact.

I might imagine that this is their first kiss– or first time depending on how the relationship has progressed to this point.

Then we get into Sangwoo’s heat (so this fic takes place over maybe 8 months?) and I’ll HC that this time around, Sangwoo asks Jaeyoung to be his partner and Jaeyoung absolutely melts. It turns out that Sangwoo is very soft and needy– not demanding at all, just very pliant. It’s also, like I said in the beginning, not just sexual. The sex they do have is very slow and gentle and overwhelming but they spend just as much time just being together– they cook dinner together, watch a movie with Jaeyoung’s head resting on Sangwoo’s stomach, making out with Sangwoo in Jaeyoung’s lap. Jaeyoung has a thing for marking Sangwoo and when they’re knotted together, they’re both so happy and giggling as they talk, Sangwoo surprisingly rambling about some silly topic and Jaeyoung so, so found as he listens.

And then, of course, there’s an epilogue with them mating and Sangwoo pregnant and them having kids <3 literally just all the fun fluff parts of an omegaverse AU I literally think it would fit them so, so well!!!!

[noelxbe]

bejaeyoung

“you’ve never read a webtoon?” jay repeats. “like, at all—ever? in the history of ever? seriously?” he’s questioning the other as if noel is now an alien he must interrogate. but then again, who has never picked up a webtoon, ever? in this day and age? jay almost doesn’t believe it, but noel sounded so serious that he doesn’t think the older boy is lying either. wow, there really are all kinds of people in this world. “how do you just… avoid reading a webtoon?” he supposes the matter of how doesn’t matter now—jay can rectify the situation instead! jay slides closer to noel, a smile on his face. “well, since it’s part of our workshop right now, we have the perfect excuse to get you to surf the site now. we’ll call it research or something.” it’s not like he’s deceiving anyone either, it would count as research. “so, what’s your favourite genre, hyung?” that’s a good place to start. jay can start making his recommendation from that piece of information. who knows, maybe noel will get hooked on whatever jay made him read. that would stroke his ego.

he shakes his head, “nope, never ever read a webtoon” he shrugs. “is that abnormal?” he asks. “i didn’t think webtoons would be a part of this acting camp… i’m quite surprised they brought it up” he hums “then again, this acting camp seems like much more than just acting, i’ve attended korean workshops, learned about fashion and now webtoons is suddenly a part of it too”. acting was obviously far more complex than noel had thought it to be, it made the acting camp harder than he had expected, so much to learn, but he just had to live with that.

“i mean… it’s not that hard not reading a webtoon, you just… don’t read it?” he tilts his head a bit. “i’d love to share my favourite genre with you, but i don’t have one, i don’t like reading books. the only books i read is for school, but i’m not a student anymore, so i have no reason for reading” he shrugs. “i just don’t see the interesting in reading i suppose”.

[the-somewhat-rambling-reviewer]

Love for Love's Sake EP1

I’ve only watched episodes 1-3 so far.

Given the opening scene, I’m worried Yeo Woon is actively suicidal.

Tae Mayung Ha adapts really quickly to this how possibly being in a virtual world thing. I always have trouble with premises such as these, because, I know if too much time is spent on the main character struggling, it’ll turn viewers off, but I also know someone like me would not last long at all if I suddenly found myself in a different world or what have you. I would question my sanity hardcore, and assuming I decided I was still sane, I would likely kill myself in the process of trying to reverse what had happened.

Did his author friend do this to him?

It’s interesting how I haven’t seen anything online about how a 29-year-old is actively pursuing an 18-year-old. Granted, virtual world (possibly), he’s in a 19-year-old body (possibly), and even in the real world, I don’t think there are any countries where a 29-year-old being with an 18-year-old is illegal, nor do I think it should be illegal, either. But also, if an 18-year-old loved one of mine was with or being pursued by a 29-year-old, I would not have good feelings towards this 29-year-old.

This said, it being fiction, I’m not counting myself as hypocritical for the fact I’m shipping Sang Won with Mayung Ha.

Sang Won reminds me so much of Jang Jaeyoung from Semantic Error.

And unfortunately, it seems I’m the only one shipping these two right now.

I don’t dislike Yeo Woon, but I honestly don’t understand why everyone is cooing over him, either. I feel bad for him. I do think people aren’t taking his grandmother’s death into consideration at all and that he should be given time, and possibly, counselling, to actually mourn her. But other than feeling sympathy for him, I don’t see what makes him so appealable to both the audience and Mayung ha

Back to Mayung Ha waking up in the classroom, the teacher’s reaction was milder than I expected, and in this circumstance, sending him to stand in the hall was likely best for Mayung Ha, but a good teacher would actually be trying to find out what caused such a bizarre reaction in a student.

So, Mayung Ha finds Yeo Woon, and it was smart convincing Yeo Woon that he was close to Yeo Woon’s grandmother. All the same, there are more plausible answers to the question of missing her funeral than, oh, sorry, I was so late that I didn’t even make it.  

Speaking of grandmothers, I no longer take cultural or generational differences into consideration when it comes to abuse. Mayung Ha’s grandmother is a horrible person. Parents from 1950s movies and Thailand BL series and so on who lay their hands on their children are terrible people.

Onto non-horrible people, I love that Kyung Hoon is basically Mayung Ha’s teddy bear. It’s not scary to see when he physically stops Kyung Hoon, and in later episodes, he’ll openly cuddle him multiple times.

Speaking of adorable, bedsharing!

I do find it interesting how Asian shows tend to make much less of a big deal about two boys/men sharing a bed when there’s no romantic relationship in play. Which they should. I’m going to squee over most instances of bed-sharing regardless of whether it’s parents co-sleeping with kids, a couple, or just two or more friends, but I don’t find it commentary-worthy in and of itself when two male characters who aren’t in a romantic relationship end up sharing a bed.

I know Yeo Woon and Mayung Ha will almost certainly end up together, but couldn’t it just be a case of Mayung Ha helping this depressed kid be happy and maybe Mayung Ha ending up with Sang Won?

I’m not sure this new format is doing much better at helping me present my thoughts in a coherent fashion, but I’m going to try it a few more times.

[geekygirl24]

BL Prompts - Chapter 36 Links

Prompt from TroisZKG: Wow, there are quite a few prompts for Semantic Error already but I'll still add mine anyway 😁🤞🏽 Acts of Service. Sangwoo has been very busy and slightly stressed lately and Jaeyoung had been quietly going about taking care of things in the background, either or their lives together or that would benefit Sangwoo in some way personally. Sangwoo slowly realizes. https://archiveofourown.org/works/46231810/chapters/127280785

Prompt from Nessi: No idea if that's too complicated, but I'd really like a Kim-Chay version of the Ep. 13 showdown of Unforgotten Night (Kim's POV) please. https://archiveofourown.org/works/46207009/chapters/127163332

Prompt from TroisZKG - For We Best Love. Gao Shi De/Zhou Shu Yi - mpreg, hurt/comfort, misunderstanding, getting back together The park scene was actually a year after Shi De left and Shu Yi had never told Shi De he became pregnant. After seeing him again, Shu Yi finally convinces himself for his daughter's sake to ask Shi De to allow his 'two' children to meet each other. Shi is shocked to discover both the misunderstanding that had occurred as well as this new secret. https://archiveofourown.org/works/46255276/chapters/127280641

Prompt from KatrinkaRowan: Can I request a Minato Shouji Coin Laundry? Something happens to make Shin feel less confident and Minato builds him back up. https://archiveofourown.org/works/46179736/chapters/127336459

Prompt from MisTResShawnie: Yeah, seems I'm first 🥳 A prompt for Hei Xia Zi and Xie Yuchen in the Assassin AU of chapter 28. Sequel please - let's have that next attack play out for them, shall we! https://archiveofourown.org/works/46279000/chapters/127393279

[fanfic-recs-01]

Misc. fics that may get their own post eventually

This is pretty much just a list of random ships I like that don't have enough fics for their own list yet.

Updated 5/4/25

Langa/Reki

Crossed Horizons by greeneggs101

~Or the one where Langa returns to Canada after a whirlwind summer in Okinawa. He came back with a new hobby and, even more surprising, a boyfriend. Which his friends aren't quite sure is real or not.~

we are each other's mystery by MangaFreak15

~5 times people try to ask Langa out and 1 time he doesn't say no.~

sober up by 13KeithXPidge13

~In which Langa and Reki are so tired one morning they accidentally kiss.~

Reki's Totally Real Canadian Boyfriend by JustGettingBy

~The five times Reki's classmates thought that he was lying and the one time they realized he wasn't.~

Chu Sangwoo/Jang Jaeyoung

I Only Need One Hand To Drive When You're With Me by seaofwonders

~"Sangwoo," he breathes out, taking him in. The soft cotton pajama pants, the large shirt Jaeyoung suspects is his own. He looks at him bleary-eyed, sleep clinging to him like morning mist to flowers. He looks so sweet, untouched by the time that's passed since they’ve been apart.~

Heat of the Moment by reyisawesome

~Sangwoo wakes up hot. Why exactly? Because of Jang Jaeyoung of course.~

Kenji Kon/Ben Pincus

endless forms by AquaQuadrant

~The campers’ boat is sabotaged by Wu’s mercenaries, leaving them stranded on Isla Nublar indefinitely. Through good times and bad, only one thing is for certain; none of them will ever be the same.~

Anton/Viago

Just Like in the Movies by bad_idea_in_a_glass

~Anton and Viago got caught in the middle of a drunken altercation and to keep their respective sides from literally killing each other they pretend to have been secretly dating until things blow over. It doesn't go exactly to plan.~

And there's a chance that things'll get weird. Yeah, that's a possibility. by pintpotjudas 

~Viago gets dumped by the love of his afterlife, and everyone does their level (terrible) best to help him move on. Anton knows a thing or two about not getting the life you thought you were going to have. The camera crew are back to film every moment of it. More or less.~

Heartbreak in Stages by tinkerty_tonk

~Katherine has left Viago heartbroken. Luckily there is one werewolf who knows just how to make it better - Stu. He calls in Anton. Who promptly falls in love with Viago.~

Akashi/Furihata

"How do you feel, Akashi-kun?" by ReizJaruu13

~"Like wanting to snip the life out of Taiga with my 15-inch scissors."A tenor voice answered Kuroko's inquiry with more venom than necessary. Akashi, the teen in question, happened to swipe up the shadow as his instant side-kick to observe (stalk) a certain brownhead who was in charged to accompany the Seirin ace.~

Sometimes Love Is Found Where You Least Expect It by The Lion and The Chihuahua (Riren_Love) 

~After Furihata ends up witnessing Akashi almost poke Kagami's eye out with a pair of scissors, ending with the scissors creating a cut on Kagami's cheek, Furihata is left traumatized with reoccurring nightmares of Akashi killing him every single night. Until, to Furihata's relief, the nightmares stop two months later.~

The Fast Train to Kyoto by courtingstars (FallingSilver)

~kashi Seijuurou is tired of people keeping him at a distance. One day on a train platform, he encounters a certain panicky point guard from Seirin. And he gets an idea. A terrible, awful, foolish idea… Naturally, he has to go through with it. The question is, will Furihata accept his invitation?~

habits by lances

~(or: furihata catches akashi after their match and decides to be brave and cheer him up. it works, only akashi has no business being that suave.)~

Sirius Black/Remus Lupin

The Barista, the Burglar, and the Sofa by orphan_account

~This is the story of twenty-three year old Remus Lupin, an overworked graduate student and underpaid barista, who comes home one day to find an exceptionally attractive man has broken into his flat. Given the neighborhood he lives in, that isn’t a huge surprise. He is surprised, though, when the burglar comes back with a sofa.~

For My Impertinence by synonomy

~After two years of avoiding marriage by sabotaging his parents’ matchmaking attempts, Sirius’ luck finally runs out. At the end of their rope, they offer him one last choice: marry the Lupin boy, or be cast out onto the street.~

Jayce/Viktor

heavy crown by vavavavoom

~AKA the arranged marriage fic.~

Stay Your Pretty Eyes On Course by Neibba

~After the Hexcore collapsed, Jayce gets sent back to where it all started, the day he met Viktor, but Viktor seems to have no recollection of him. What happens when Jayce gets another chance, knowing what he knows now.~

Rate Your Professor by zo_hey

~The reviews were getting out of hand.

Viktor did not care a single bit about them.

Jayce, on the contrary...~

Cup Rune Over by surveycorpsjean

~After a gruesome war finally comes to treaty, it is decided that the King of Piltover will take a bride from Zaun.

Viktor isn't expecting to be a candidate.~

[secretxxpaladaiseu]

Ilseong frowned this time. He gripped her chin and forced her to look at him. "You are the better girlfriend, Jaeyoung. You are the one for me. You might think that you're not worthy, but to me, you're the one for me. You're perfect for me. There's no one else but you in my eyes. Take back all that shit you said about my beautiful girlfriend. I've met horrible girls in the past. Those that use me for fame, who just want a story to tell their friends about sleeping with an idol. You're none of that. You have struggles, we all do. It doesn't make you any less. And you better stop apologizing for this."

Her lips trembled as she looked up at him, listening to him. It still didn't make sense to her, and probably never would. Whatever confidence in herself like that had been destroyed years ago, and knowing her demons only made her self-image that much worse. Even as he told her about the girls in the past, she almost could've argued that they were still better than her. "I...I can't take back how I feel...I can't lie like that..."

[inhobe]

inho and team a perform "don't call me" for the judges / line distribution

the difference having a good team and fun song to perform could change one's excitement level was astonishing sometimes. inho still had some nerves bubbling inside, mostly because he had no control over anything after this point, it was up to the judges to compare and rank them all. it was difficult to just hand all that power over to a group of people. however, the excitement was much more noticeable in his body as the team was getting ready to go on stage.

he hadn't known what to expect when he got paired with sarang, ahyoung, jaeyoung, and jingren. inho wasn't super familiar with any of the four, let alone close to any of them. it'd work out nicely though. the five of them had meshed extremely well together despite most of them not seeming to have any previous connection with one another. it'd made everything about their teamwork far easier as they collaborated and bounced ideas off each other. they'd come up with some cool things to show to the judges.

all that was left was to show it all to the judges.

when it was there turn, inho followed his team members out onto the stage. he loved what they had done for this performance. a few of them had worked together to remix the song, adding an edgier and more rock feeling to it, but not totally changing it from the original. then they paired it with a concept that combined a retro cyberpunk vibe with mad max. unique but a lot of fun.

it wasn't but a few seconds after they took their spots that the music was beginning, and their performance was fully beginning. the line distribution had worked out perfectly to highlight their strengths, in inho's opinion, and provided for some fun back and forth moments between the members.

inho felt comfortable as they performed, feeling significantly less tired as they performed in comparison to how he did during "do better" since he wasn't dancing and singing the entire time on his own. that didn't mean he would let himself fade into the background, that wasn't an option with only five of them. he was focused, confident. his usual smirk and slightly cocky look fit nicely in parts of this song. the way his body moved and his facial expressions changed to match the song surely showed it all. the parts he was assigned showed off his vocal talents nicely as well.

he'd worked closely with all the members on different things. jaeyoung and him had worked to find a good balance as they went back and forth with each other earlier in the song, wanting an appropriate intensity to it. he and jingren harmonized at two different points and all the trialing they'd done was paying off. working with ahyoung on stamina, and sarang on the visuals of it all put the cherry on top of it all.

the three and half minutes really flew by and before he knew it, their song was coming to an end. they'd made it through their performance, and dammit, they'd done great. the previous week he'd just been wanting to get through the song, he wanted it over with. this time, inho felt like he enjoyed performing truly. if this was a more accurate representation of what it could feel like performing as an idol, he thought it wouldn't be a half bad pursuit. inho didn't want to get his hopes up. they still had a long way to go until the finale, and there was no telling what twists and turns could take place between now and then. however, the pride that came after a good performance ended made all their hard work absolutely worth it.

hopefully the judges agreed.

[bejingren]

jingren - don't call me team a | interview

the interview questions were actually some of jingren's favourite parts through all this. a time for his review of the fruition of all the time spent on practicing, and performing. while not necessarily being a naturally chatty person, jingren did decently with questions and answering them. or so he hopes.

"what was the greatest challenge during this mission?" jingren stays quiet as he ponders his answer. there were a few things. but the greatest challenge? it depends on who you ask..and for what point of view. but a generalization was always difficult for him. so broad. they're not looking for the 'right' answer anyway, but merely his opinion. "after doing our line distributions, i wanted to honour the parts i was given. i did not want to drag my group down in any way. my biggest challenge was keeping my voice steady during the parts with heavy dance, but i did my best to make it stable. dancing separately and singing separately are different from combining the two together. but of course, it is necessary and i hope i did my parts well."

"was there another participant who was especially helpful?" his answer might be less about technical things but he had to say it. shout out to his boy, jaeyoung. "everyone in the team was so helpful, we all thought about the concept and didn't leave anyone out of anything. they really kept me on top of things and didn't let me have any time to doubt myself. jaeyoung was particularly good with keeping a smile on my face, even after hours of practice."

"do you feel confident in your performance?" "honestly? yes. i... don't know if i could always say that every time, especially from the start. but this time, i really did feel confident performing this time. and i hope it showed, and wasn't just my 'feeling'."

"have you grown from when you first joined the show?" jingren nods immediately. this one was a no-brainer. "i've changed a lot from when i first auditioned. i didn't know what i was doing back then, and i feel a lot differently about performing, and myself as a performer now. we are only partway and i don't feel like the same individual that entered the show."

[ikjun]

Just come with me. Where are we going? We can’t do it at the library, you can’t make noise there. My office is better. Your office?

SEMANTIC ERROR | EP 6

[gunsatthaphan]

🌹🚨❤️

[soundsaboutrighttumblr]

Chapters: 1/1 Fandom: Semantic Error (TV) Rating: Mature Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Relationships: Chu Sangwoo/Jang Jaeyoung Characters: Chu Sangwoo (Semantic Error), Jang Jaeyoung Additional Tags: kisses and banter, right after the ending scene in that artroom, freshly established relationship, scene continuation, Dialogue, Fluff, Sensuality, In Love Summary:

Did anyone else wonder what the three things were Sangwoo wants Jaeyoung to be mindful of when being with him?

Kisses and banter, set right after the show’s ending scene in the art studio room.

[parkxsora]

sometimes sora just wants to let loose and dance. clubbing probably isn't the most ideal thing an idol could do to pass the time, but it's truly amazing how her face transforms under stage makeup, lighting, and styling. maybe she's an example of a 'take her swimming on the first date' sort of girl, but sora can appreciate the anonymity her own features give her when she chooses not to go all out with the contouring, eyelashes, and extensions. there's less pressure in a club than in a practice room and she can just move without worrying about perfect posture and angles.

she's enjoying her night out, lost in the music and the vibe of the crowd around her, when she's suddenly brought back down to earth by a body stumbling into her. sora, a slight woman herself, has to find her footing and right herself before she can get a good glimpse of the other woman's face; oh. of course she recognizes shin yeonhwa; she's seen that face on television and magazine covers often enough (and perhaps silently admired the woman a little more than she should). "it's no problem!" sora wonders if this what it feels like to be 'y/n' in a fan fiction—not that she reads those. "feel free to run into me again, i won't mind. seriously." she grins, good natured as ever and more than happy to make a new friend. it's only then that she notices another approaching them, his gaze fixed on yeonhwa with a determination that sora recognizes all too well. if you get me out of here, i'll owe you my life, yeonhwa pleads, though sora had already made that decision before hearing the request.

without a moment of hesitation, she wraps an arm around the other woman's waist, comfortable as if they've been friends for years. "where have you been? i've been looking for you everywhere!" she raises her voice, projecting loud enough to be heard by the man approaching them. "jaeyoung's waiting outside for us, we're gonna be late to our reservations." there's no man named jaeyoung, of course, nor is there any late night reservation that is being neglected. sora just comes up with the lie on the spot and uses the moment to guide both of them out of the crowd, out of the club, and hopefully out of that guy's radar. "are you okay?" she lets go of the other woman as soon as the coast seems clear, a quieter atmosphere than the middle of the dance floor making it easier to chat. "what a weirdo."

𖡡 RANDOM CLUB, CHEONGDAM   ●  LATE NIGHT. ♡ FOR ANYONE  →  OPEN !

perfectly curled hair bounced against her back, as she pushed her way through the club. honestly, she really hadn’t wanted to come out tonight; truly a rarity for her. however, her friend had pushed and pushed until she’d caved. sometimes, only loud music and alcohol can turn things for the better. turns out tonight wasn’t one of those nights. she’d had way too much to drink, she was exhausted, her friend that she’d come out with had disappeared with a guy and she was being followed by a creep. could the night get much worse? yeonhwa was not willing to stay and find out.

there’s a hand on her wrist, the stranger trying to pull her into flirty conversation once again and her head is turned, so she feels, rather than sees the other person in her path. she knocks into them harshly, stumbling back slightly and using the surprise to wrench her arm from the stranger’s hold. “oh god I’m so sorry. i wasn’t watching where i was going.” she’s flustered and stumbling over her words, it takes a second for her to recognise the familiar face. “oh, hello! fancy seeing you here! i’m so sorry about that.” she can see the creep getting ready to break into the conversation again, and cannot find the energy with herself to deal with it. “if you get me out of here i’ll owe you my life.”

[carmenlire]

Flex on Me

read on ao3

Sangwoo’s never been one to focus and prioritize physical appearance.

He had a very simple skincare routine that he’d researched thoroughly to both be most efficient and cost-effective. He likes knowing that whenever he reaches into his closet, his clothes have already been chosen with comfort and maximum wearability in mind– he can easily mix and match and the dark colors and muted patterns fade into the background.

Food was energy and Sangwoo ate regular meals, going so far as to set alarms during particularly busy times, to keep his body and mind running at optimal levels and because he had a tendency to forget to eat when he was so engrossed in schoolwork and other projects.

Sangwoo didn’t think he was exceptionally attractive. He didn’t think about his body or appearance at all on an aesthetic level. No one had ever expressed an opinion either way. All he knew was that his clothes were comfortable, his routine remained efficient, and his body was proficient at getting him from point A to point B.

Blackholic was his one vice. There had been one day during his freshman year when the vending machine had run out of the canned coffee. Unwilling to accept a substitute, Sangwoo had simply forgone any caffeine that day.

It was a regrettable decision.

By the time he’d made it to his afternoon Introduction to Computer Programming class, his headache had been excruciating. His temples ached and he was having trouble focusing on whatever the professor was explaining.

Sangwoo knew that he was going through caffeine withdrawal but he enjoyed the taste of Blackholic and going to the vending machine in the morning had quickly become an integral part of his morning routine. So, he accepted the consequences and moved on with his life.

Thankfully, the campus vending machine hadn’t run out of Blackholic again until– until Jang Jaeyoung had decided to launch his mission to Inconvenience Sangwoo’s Life.

It’s been months since Jaeyoung had entered Sangwoo’s life in alarming shades of red and it still surprises Sangwoo at how easily he’d become enamored with someone so completely his opposite.

Sangwoo can’t deny that his life before Jaeyoung seems rather dull in comparison to his days now. He also can’t deny that if given the choice, he’d pick now every single time– no matter how many times Jaeyoung pulls him away from his homework with the promise of kisses, no matter how many times he finds himself thinking about his boyfriend when he should be testing code.

Jaeyoung is an integral part of his routine and Sangwoo is more than happy– eager even– to intertwine their days.

He doesn’t notice it at first, distracted by his boyfriend. While his days before were routine and predictable, being in a relationship adds an element of spontaneity that Sangwoo finds he doesn’t mind.

Not at all, not even a little bit.

Jaeyoung sleeps over more nights than not. The first time he’d allowed his boyfriend to spend the night, Jaeyoung’s eyes had widened in that way they do, showing his surprise and excitement. The bed was a tight fit, Sangwoo’s twin mattress perfectly adequate for him alone but not so much for him plus his much taller boyfriend.

They’d made it work.

Thinking of that first night, Sangwoo isn’t even conscious of the smile on his face, completely unaware of the confused looks his hoobaes are giving him because Sangwoo’s life might be brighter and more fulfilling than he’d thought possible but he still reserves those feelings and displays of emotion for one person.

It’s not until a bag lands dramatically in a seat across from him, that Sangwoo startles back to the present, looking up at his boyfriend who’s already smiling down at him, eyes bright with what Sangwoo has learned is fondness.

“Sangwoo-ah, what were you thinking about,” Jaeyoung asks, sitting in the chair next to him. Sangwoo doesn’t answer right away, instead choosing to study his boyfriend.

Jaeyoung’s hair is windblown, falling into his eyes in a way that Sangwoo refuses to admit raises his resting heart rate. He’s wearing an oversized hoodie with a paint stain on the sleeve and a necklace peeks out from under the collar.

Drawing his eyes back up to his boyfriend’s face, Sangwoo distractedly catalogs the way Jaeyoung is patiently waiting for an answer while letting him look his fill. His gaze is drawn back down to Jaeyoung’s mouth and he watches as it tilts up at the corners, very taken with the way Jaeyoung’s tongue sweeps out to run along the bottom lip before biting it briefly.

Jaeyoung clears his throat.

Blinking, Sangwoo meets his boyfriend’s knowing gaze. Now that they’re in a relationship, Sangwoo had long since decided to be completely honest with Jaeyoung. The two of them had sat down after his confession on campus that night and went over expectations, one of the most important being honest and open communication.

So, Sangwoo doesn’t hesitate to admit, “I was thinking about the first time we slept together.”

Jaeyoung looks thrilled, positively scandalized, leaning closer– so close that Sangwoo feels a little breathless. “In the library, baby?”

Nodding, Sangwoo leans closer still. “You’re very warm, hyung. I sleep better with you.” He recognizes the expression that steals over Jaeyoung’s face, the softening of his brow, the quieter smile his mouth curves into.

Sangwoo hasn’t said it aloud yet, but this is his favorite look on his boyfriend. Privately, he likes to think that this is a look reserved just for him– something just for the two of them to share.

Jaeyoung opens his mouth to say something undoubtedly cheesy but Sangwoo has to add, “Even though you snore a little and sometimes drool on my shirt.”

Shifting from endeared to a look that teases dramatic outrage, Jaeyoung reaches out and pulls Sangwoo to him, resting his chin on top of Sangwoo’s head. “Ah, my beloved Sangwoo! What are these lies you’re telling about your flawless boyfriend. I’m a perfect bedmate and I certainly don’t drool.”

And this might be one of Sangwoo’s favorite parts about Jaeyoung– his playfulness, his teasing. Smiling at first, Sangwoo doesn’t try to stop the small laugh that escape him, more exhalation than anything else.

He feels Jaeyoung move a little, squeezing him lightly as his noses along his hair. Jaeyoung moves back after a moment, releasing Sangwoo.

It’s then that Sangwoo notices the small box on the table. It’s in a light pink shade, a white ribbon tied around it. Looking up at Jaeyoung, he finds his boyfriend grinning at him.

“What’s that, hyung?”

Eyes bright, Jaeyoung nudges the box over to him. “I stopped at a nearby bakery on my way over. I figured that I’d find you hard at work and thought that my Sangwoo-ah deserved a treat for studying so well.”

Sangwoo doesn’t point out that he’s spent more than his fair share of time this afternoon thinking about his boyfriend rather than his upcoming midterm. He just nods carefully and reaches out for the box.

Though he hasn’t said so out loud, he knows that Jaeyoung knows how much he enjoys receiving presents. It was probably a surprise to both of them, how affected Sangwoo is with any treat– a midmorning coffee or a miniature figure from a video game Sangwoo loves, each gesture resulting in Sangwoo looking at Jaeyoung with wide eyes, a quietly pleased smile on his face matching well with flushed cheeks.

Tilting back the lid, Sangwoo sees a single cheerful cupcake nestled in the box. It’s bright yellow with a bumblebee on top. Looking back up at his boyfriend, Sangwoo’s lips turn up faintly at the corners. “Thank you, hyung.”

Jaeyoung hums in acknowledgement, watching intently as Sangwoo picks the cupcake up, smearing frosting across his thumb in the process. Turning his attention back to the cupcake, Sangwoo considers his options.

Any way he thinks about it, it’s going to be a bit of a mess. He’s learned that it’s okay to be a little messy, though, and doesn’t think too much about it as he takes his first bite.

It’s perfect– the icing light and the cake airy with just the right amount of sweetness bursting on his tongue. He lets a little sound escape, a tiny noise of pleasure, pleased that the cupcake tastes good and that his hyung went through the trouble of bringing him something that makes him happy.

Sangwoo takes another bite, leaning into Jaeyoung’s side. His boyfriend shifts a little to make them both more comfortable and brings an arm up to wrap around his shoulders. He’s not hugely enthusiastic about blatant or overt displays of affection, but Sangwoo likes being close to Jaeyoung and often finds himself so distracted with his boyfriend that anything outside of their bubble doesn’t register.

So, he quietly sits and enjoys his cupcake while thinking idly about next steps for his project due at the end of the week. He looks up after a few moments, half the cupcake gone, and finds his boyfriend watching him in the way that makes Sangwoo feel warm.

That’s another one of his favorite things about Jaeyoung– the way his boyfriend’s gaze can cut so deep. Never hurtful, just unbelievably intimate, like Jaeyoung sees everything that makes up Sangwoo, like he wants nothing more than to know every little thing about him.

Sangwoo’s never felt so seen. He likes it.

Sangwoo doesn’t like being the center of attention but he’s come to crave the feeling of Jaeyoung’s eyes on him. Being the center of Jaeyoung’s attention is exhilarating in a way he can’t quite explain, nevermind that his vocabulary is more robust than most people his age.

Then again, most things defy rational explanation when it comes to Jang Jaeyoung.

Seeing the intensity of Jaeyoung’s stare makes something flutter low in Sangwoo’s middle, a feeling he’s grown familiar with since they started dating.

He holds the cupcake up a little as an offer. “Want some?”

Jaeyoung doesn’t say anything for a moment, continuing to look at the way Sangwoo’s slender fingers hold the cupcake. Without warning, he looks up and meets Sangwoo’s eyes for a brief moment before darting forward to kiss him right on the mouth.

It’s a quick peck but it leaves Sangwoo feeling flustered. Jaeyoung looks exceptionally pleased with himself.

“Tastes good,” Jaeyoung says, voice low and teasing. He’s smiling and while his eyes are fond, there’s just a hint of dark bite in his tone.

Rolling his eyes and not deigning to reply, Sangwoo focuses back on his cupcake. He finishes it off in a few efficient bites before taking the time to collect any crumbs. Absently crumbling his napkin, he brings his hand up to lick up a bit of frosting that had smeared over his forefinger.

If he looked over, Sangwoo would see Jaeyoung’s eyes darken at the move. His focus has already switched to the problem set he’s been trying to work through for the past few hours, though, and he’s barely aware of Jaeyoung eventually pulling out his own laptop to work on a freelance project beside him.

The two of them stay at the library until the sun’s almost set, before Jaeyoung finally relaxes back in his chair, stretching his arms over his head.

“Sangwoo-ah, are you almost finished?”

There’s the quick sound of pencil scratching against paper for another minute before it stills and Sangwoo raises his head to look at his boyfriend. “I just completed the last question.”

It’s quick work collecting their belongings before the two of them are standing and start heading towards the front entrance, Sangwoo tucked into Jaeyoung’s side with his boyfriend’s arm resting comfortably over his shoulders.

Sangwoo had planned to work on their game tonight but he already knows before they’ve left the library that this evening will be pure quality time together. They two of them have started a new show recently and while Sangwoo finds the main couple thoroughly annoying and illogical, he’s quite enjoyed getting to know the second couple and is looking forward to seeing their storyline progress.

They stop by a fried chicken place to pick up dinner on the way back to Sangwoo’s apartment and his hyung pays, wearing his signature grin as he reaches around Sangwoo to insert his credit card in the machine before Sangwoo can.

Sangwoo looks up, acting more annoyed than he really is just because it makes Jaeyoung’s smile that much more teasing. “I had it, hyung. You saw the card in my hand.”

Glancing over with wide eyes as he reaches for the bag of food, Jaeyoung tries to look innocent. “I know, baby, but I like paying. Are you going to deny me the pleasure of doing something for you?”

Sangwoo scoffs but doesn’t offer any other resistance, merely reaching for Jaeyoung’s hand and intertwining their fingers as they leave. “Relationships are fifty-fifty, hyung. It’s important that I do my part.”

Letting himself be pulled along, Jaeyoung grins, quick and bright. He squeezes Sangwoo’s hand and Sangwoo’s pulse quickens at the feeling of his boyfriend sweeping a thumb over his wrist. “Sangwoo-ah, our relationship is more than equal. You enjoying dinner is all the repayment I need.”

That doesn’t seem fair to Sangwoo but he doesn’t want to argue, not really, and Jaeyoung knows that.

Sangwoo just sighs, slowing down just enough until they’re in step again.

The walk home is pleasant, quick, full of Jaeyoung’s teasing and Sangwoo’s quiet fondness.

----

Sleep clings stubbornly to the edges of Jaeyoung’s conscious as he hears an alarm going off. He feels Sangwoo move, leaning away as he reaches for his phone to quiet the alarm. Sangwoo relaxes back into his hold just a moment later and Jaeyoung pulls him even closer.

He knows that Sangwoo’s morning routine has changed a little since they started dating. His boyfriend has reworked his schedule so that his alarm goes off earlier, giving him exactly eight minutes to cuddle with Jaeyoung before he needs to get out of bed and start his exercises.

Keeping quiet, Jaeyoung simply breathes, loves the smell of his boyfriend’s shampoo– their shampoo, because in a fit of fancy that still makes Jaeyoung thrilled to remember it, Sangwoo had casually bought the brand that he used.

When Jaeyoung had asked about it, Sangwoo’s answer had been matter of fact. “I like the way that you smell and by using the same brand, I’m able to replicate a similar feeling of comfort. Plus whenever I wear it, I think of you, which is a positive outcome.”

Nosing along Sangwoo’s hair, Jaeyoung feels something still in him. He’s always been one to enjoy his own company or a quiet moment, contrary to being well known for being the life of the party. He has many friends and enjoys a lively social life but finds just as much contentment during a dinner with Yuna and Hyeongtaek. Still, he knows that he has a fairly known reputation as larger than life.

In these moments, when it’s just him and Sangwoo, something restless settles in his chest. He loves Sangwoo– almost desperately, without limit– and just being with him means almost more than he can name.

This morning is nothing out of the ordinary. While Sangwoo is doing his exercises, Jaeyoung likes to scroll through Instagram. They’ll meet in the kitchen for a quick breakfast, talking idly about their plans for the day before Sangwoo will be off and Jaeyoung will head to the gym.

For these few minutes however, it’s just them in a bed that Jaeyoung is more frequently thinking of as theirs and he’s so warm he feels like he could burst.

Jaeyoung’s hand drifts across the hemline of Sangwoo’s sleep shirt. Sangwoo sighs, wiggling a little, infinitesimally closer. Without thinking, his hand slips under the shirt, coming to rest low on Sangwoo’s stomach.

The skin there is soft and smooth and in his sleep haze, Jaeyoung is charmed senseless. He spends the rest of their designated morning time just touching Sangwoo, enjoying the simple feel of him.

He runs a finger over his side before flattening his palm until it’s resting just over his boyfriend’s navel. He loves everything about Sangwoo– every sensible, infuriating thing about the man in his arms.

In this moment, Jaeyoung can’t get enough of how Sangwoo feels, soft and pliant. He doesn’t take for granted the trust that Sangwoo bestows on him, not only letting him into his apartment but resting so comfortable while doing so.

It makes him warm, happy and confident and so totally head over heels that he still has trouble reconciling these feelings sometimes, the way that Sangwoo’s come along and just totally blown his defenses away.

Knowing that Sangwoo’s second alarm will be sounding soon, Jaeyoung gets a bit bolder, hand coming to his boyfriend’s side, sliding his shirt up as he moves. Sangwoo’s always been lean but soft, Jaeyoung’s fingers pressing firmly into his thighs, nose warm when he kisses along Sangwoo’s stomach, nipping gently just to hear his boyfriend’s breath catch.

Jaeyoung squeezes Sangwoo’s hip, enjoys the way flesh gives under his fingers. God, he’s so warm, skin like silk just for Jaeyoung and it drives him crazy, how much he wants.

Deciding it’s time to wake up a bit more, Jaeyoung leans into Sangwoo, kissing him behind his ear.

“Good morning, baby.” His voice sounds low to him, raspy with sleep but by the way he feels Sangwoo shiver, he knows he doesn’t mind.

Sangwoo turns in his arms, cuddling closer until he’s nosing along Jaeyoung’s neck. A noise escapes Jaeyoung– not a moan but something quieter, calmer. A hum of pleasure at being so close.

He feels more than hears Sangwoo echo, “Morning, hyung.”

He lays a hand between Sangwoo’s shoulders, sweeps it low to the small of his back, feels the tiny way his boyfriend arches, just a little, into his touch, more a flex of his hips than anything else, an impression of movement.

Moving further down, Jaeyoung’s hand settles on his ass. Sangwoo hitches a leg over his hip, aligning them even more closely. Jaeyoung doesn’t think, just feels. He palms Sangwoo’s ass and it fits in his hand perfectly. He’s giving major thought to if he can persuade Sangwoo to snooze that second alarm of his when said alarm goes off and Sangwoo’s immediately reaching over again to silence it.

Jaeyoung groans, half in defeat and half because he’d been casually working himself up, not realizing how much until the prospect of following through was taken from him.

“Sangwoo-ah,” he tries, in his softest voice, teasing and low enough to make Sangwoo realize his intent. Before he can say anything else, though, his boyfriend is flinging the covers off and climbing out of bed.

Jaeyoung buries his face in their pillow, thinks about suffocating himself so that he doesn’t have to walk around frustrated all day.

“Brush you teeth, hyung. I’ll be waiting in the kitchen in twenty three minutes.”

Making some noise of acknowledgement, Jaeyoung lays still as he hears his boyfriend move through his morning routine.

He’s roused himself and made it to the kitchen with forty five seconds to spare and their breakfast is a domestic affair.

Jaeyoung hadn’t thought he’d enjoy this so much– hearing about Sangwoo’s upcoming day, debating what to do for dinner tonight, teasing his boyfriend about any little thing that crossed his mind.

He’s wildly endeared by just about everything Sangwoo does and that extends to listening as he debates the merits of switching his current brand of dish soap for one that had a better customer rating.

Sangwoo leaves soon after they finish and the rest of Jaeyoung’s day moves quickly. His workout that morning is extremely satisfying and he pushes himself hard, still riding the edge of frustration.

Jaeyoung has a few meetings later in the morning and spends the afternoon at a local coffeeshop looking up potential date ideas for this weekend when he should be drafting a loose schedule for this project he’s been assigned. He idly wonders if Sangwoo would enjoy an immersive museum exhibit when he gets a text.

Opening the message, it’s a picture of Sangwoo. His boyfriend is looking into the camera, hair damp and cheeks flushed. His expression is disgruntled

According to my weather app, there was only a fifteen percent chance of rain today. The meteorologist was clearly incorrect, as I was caught in a thunderstorm.

Jaeyoung wouldn’t even bother to deny it if anyone was there to call him out– he audibly coos at the picture, can’t help but think that Sangwoo looks like a bedraggled kitten. He saves the picture in the next breath, face aching because he’s smiling so wide down at his phone.

He sends a few texts in reply, a couple with long strings of heart emojis before sending his location, knowing that Sangwoo is done with class by now and that he had to stop by the campus bookstore for something afterwards.

Sangwoo sends a confirmation that he’s on his way now that the rain has stopped and it’s not even a conscious decision for Jaeyoung to leave his table and head up to the counter to order something.

He gets a refill for his own coffee before ordering a drink for Sangwoo. His boyfriend likes bold coffee with a bitter bite and so he orders an iced americano. Looking over the bakery selections, Jaeyoung orders a brownie, too.

Sangwoo isn’t open with it, but Jaeyoung has noticed that since they’ve started dating, his boyfriend has a definite sweet tooth. It didn’t take him long to notice, either.

It started with Jaeyoung offering Sangwoo bites of his dessert since his boyfriend insisted that he didn’t want any. What was one bite quickly turned into Sangwoo wheedling for half and then three quarters until Jaeyoung was ordering treats just for him.

It’s adorable, Jaeyoung thinks, that Sangwoo never orders his own dessert but has no qualms about devouring his.

He hasn’t really stopped to think about it, but he really enjoys treating Sangwoo. Whether it’s an extra piece of fried chicken or another mochi, it makes a kernel of warmth bloom in Jaeyoung’s chest, seeing the way his boyfriend so confidently steals bites from his fork, the trusting look in Sangwoo’s eyes as Jaeyoung feeds him, the delighted flush that steals across his cheeks as Jaeyoung surprises him with something.

Placing the brownie at the place across from him, Jaeyoung is reading an article on his phone about an up and coming video game designer when the chair across from him scrapes against the floor as it’s pulled back.

Jaeyoung looks up, instantly delighted to see that Sangwoo’s hair is still a little damp at the ends. He’s reminded of the first time he saw him like this, the night of the fight with that Quikst asshole.

“Hi, baby,” he greets with a smile, reaching up to guide a stubborn strand of hair out of his boyfriend’s eyes.

“Hey, hyung.” Sangwoo sits down and he doesn’t even say anything before he’s pulling the small plate with the brownie on it closer to him.

Jaeyoung watches him take the first bite and knows from firsthand experience that he could watch Sangwoo do just about anything indefinitely. Eating is no exception.

Sometimes, if the meal if particularly good, his boyfriend frowns a little, as though offended that he’s enjoying it so much. It’s endearing watching the way he carefully plans his next bite, each one planned so as to be the most efficient while minimizing the potential for mess.

It turns out that Sangwoo had just headed over to collect Jaeyoung and that it’s later than he’d expected, the office workers starting to congest the streets as they head home.

Having decided on sushi for dinner, the two of them get ready to head out.

Jaeyoung’s placing his laptop back in his bag when he feels arms wrap around him from behind. Though not unheard of, Sangwoo doesn’t often initiate such overt demonstrations in public. “Sangwoo-ah?”

Though his boyfriend probably wouldn’t admit it, Jaeyoung feels him nuzzle between his shoulders as the arms around him tighten for a minute before letting up. He hears Sangwoo mumble something but it’s muffled against his jacket.

Sangwoo’s backing up a moment later and at Jaeyoung’s questioning look he repeats, “Thank you for the brownie. I really liked it.”

Finding the simple thanks almost too cute to bear, Jaeyoung leans down until he’s in Sangwoo’s space. He knows that now when Jaeyoung doesn’t flinch away it’s because he likes having him in his space and not merely his stubborn boyfriend refusing to be cowed.

Jaeyoung doesn’t say anything for a few moments, content enough to just observe Sangwoo with such little distance between them. He lets his eyes wander over the few freckles that dust his cheekbones to the thin bridge of his nose, over his hair that’s a little fluffier now after having been caught in the rain. After he’s looked his fill, he leans just far enough so that he can nose against Sangwoo’s own.

His smile grows bigger when Sangwoo’s eyes widen and he looks visibly happy.

“Anytime, Sangwoo-ah.”

As they leave the coffeeshop-- Jaeyoung holding onto the handle of Sangwoo's bookbag-- and pause at the crosswalk, Jaeyoung looks over to see Sangwoo frowning. Before he can ask, Sangwoo’s already opening his mouth.

“I shouldn’t have eaten that brownie, hyung. It was illogical when we hadn’t eaten dinner yet.”

Reaching down to intertwine their fingers, Jaeyoung pulls him a little closer as he raises a brow. “Didn’t you say you liked it, though?”

Sangwoo nods as they start crossing the street. “I did but sweets are supposed to be eaten after dinner, if at all.”

“Says who?”

Narrowing his eyes in thought, Sangwoo glances up at him. “If I just ate a brownie but now we’re going to eat an actual meal, then I’ve impacted how ready I am to eat. I should prioritize a meal with the needed nutrients before splurging on something that offers little nutritional value.”

Jaeyoung shakes his head a little, amused, and huffs out a fond breath. “Sangwoo-ah, it’s okay to simply enjoy food. It doesn’t have to meet any requirements. It can simply taste good and be enjoyable.” Sangwoo looks like he wants to butt in but Jaeyoung keeps talking, adding, “It was just a brownie. I’m sure it won’t affect things as much as you think. Plus, even if you don’t eat as much– so what? We can always take some food home and you can eat it later if you get hungry.”

Sangwoo’s clearly thinking what Jaeyoung’s said over. Jaeyoung has to fight the urge to duck down and steal a kiss. His boyfriend looks so focused as he puzzles over this conundrum.

Jaeyoung simply wants to eat him up.

It’s silent while Sangwoo’s lost in thought but Jaeyoung doesn’t mind. He’s gotten used to quiet walks with Sangwoo. He enjoys just being around him, holding his hand, and it’s nice that they don’t need to fill every silence. Jaeyoung is more than happy enough to just walk beside Sangwoo on their way to the restaurant.

They’re rounding the block before Sangwoo comes up for air. “I suppose you’re right, hyung.”

Nudging his shoulder, Jaeyoung blusters. “You don’t have to make it sound like I’m never right, Sangwoo-ah. I bet I’m right as often as you are.”

Jaeyoung can see Sangwoo bite his lip in his effort not to correct him. He grins, appreciating the restraint his boyfriend is showing.

Jaeyoung opens the door for them, resting a hand on the small of Sangwoo’s back as they enter.

Sangwoo looks up, adds, “After all, there are times I’m not hungry when you get dessert but I still eat it. It sounds like the same principle.”

Sitting down as a table, Jaeyoung opens his menu as he glances up at Sangwoo. “Oh?”

Sangwoo nods. “Sometimes it just looks really good and I want to taste it.”

Jaeyoung laughs, before demanding, “So all those times you steal my dessert, you don’t even want it? You thief!”

His chest warms as he sees Sangwoo shyly look down, abashed. “But I do, hyung. That’s what I’m saying. I’m fully satiated from the meal and no longer hungry but then you order ice cream or offer me a cookie and I can’t help it– it looks good and I want some. Even though I shouldn’t since I’m not hungry. It’s illogical.”

Jaeyoung’s smile softens into a look that Yuna usually rolls her eyes at in fond disgust. “Sangwoo-ah, baby. Look at me.”

Sangwoo looks up, gaze steady as it meets his. Jaeyoung reaches over their menus for Sangwoo’s hand. “You’re allowed to be illogical, baby. You don’t have to do everything because it makes sense or is efficient. I’m happy when you steal my food. I like it when I see you enjoying something, especially when it’s something I’ve given you.”

He’s looking closely at Sangwoo so he sees the instant that the shy uncertainty melts away into joy.

“Okay, hyung. If you say so.” Sangwoo’s tone is offhand, like he doesn’t care one way or another but his boyfriend squeezes his hand and Jaeyoung sees just the hint of a smile.

The two of them enjoy their dinner. Jaeyoung brings up tentative plans for the weekend– Sangwoo is very interested in an immersive experience with him– and he helps Sangwoo work through an ethical issue his professor had brought up in class about user experience and design.

Jaeyoung’s not even paying attention as he lifts up a piece of the salmon roll to Sangwoo’s mouth, too busy listing all the reasons they should see the latest animated movie after the museum on Saturday.

It’s second nature, he takes a bite and without thought, gives the next piece to Sangwoo. It’s not until Sangwoo lifts up a hand and says, “No more, hyung,” that Jaeyoung looks down and sees what he’s been doing.

He feels a bit at a loss that he hadn’t realized that he was feeding Sangwoo. He looks back up to see Sangwoo staring at him flatly, not making a single move towards the sushi.

Jaeyoung waves his chopsticks a little, bringing them closer to Sangwoo’s mouth. “Are you sure, baby? I know this is your favorite.”

He expects Sangwoo to remain looking unimpressed and not to deign to answer. Instead, Jaeyoung’s surprised as Sangwoo leans in and takes the bite, closing his mouth over the nigiri before carefully chewing.

It’s not overt, is really barely noticeable. But Jaeyoung is once again struck by a warmth flooding his chest. He thinks it’s probably a lot of things– giving Sangwoo something, seeing him appreciate and enjoy it. His own pleasure in demonstrating his care for his boyfriend in this tangible way isn’t surprising, though he’s never experienced it before with any of his other partners.

Jaeyoung doesn’t really need to delve further and instead snags the check just as Jaeyoung reaches for it. He cuts off Sangwoo’s protests by pressing a quick kiss to his cheek. “Leave it to me, Sangwoo-ah.”

And Jaeyoung is well aware that Sangwoo doesn’t like to owe anyone anything. He’s seen how he treats debts in the past– negligent when money is owed to him but hyper-diligent when he’s the one who owes someone else.

Jaeyoung hasn’t explicitly brought it up, but he’s hoping that Sangwoo is getting the message that there’s no score in this relationship, that he doesn’t have to keep careful tally in a ledger. That, plus, in the same way that Jaeyoung enjoys seeing Sangwoo eat from his hand, he always loves treating him to a meal or outing or anything else, really.

Briefly, Jaeyoung supposes that he just likes spoiling Sangwoo.

They’re back home and ready for bed when they collapse together on the couch. Jaeyoung’s laying down, Sangwoo a warm weight over him. They’re watching the latest episode of a drama and Jaeyoung feels a little tired but not all that sleepy.

Sangwoo is definitely relaxing him. He loves feeling his boyfriend around him, over him, on him.

Jaeyoung has been told in the past that he’s not affectionate enough in his relationships. He knows that was true in the past but he wonders now if maybe he just hadn’t met the right person yet. Because while Sangwoo demonstrates his love in tiny but immeasurable ways, Jaeyoung has been more physically demonstrative from the start. He feels it rise up in him sometimes, the urge to reach out, the desire to make Sangwoo feel him and the sheer amount of feelings that coalesce in his chest for him.

It doesn’t take much to distract Jaeyoung from this episode. It seems to be mostly focused on a side plot, anyway, and he’s not that invested in it. No, instead, he finds himself reaching for his boyfriend– who remains totally glued to the laptop, eyes focused on the screen and not paying any attention at all to whatever Jaeyoung wants to do.

Letting his hands roam over Sangwoo’s back, Jaeyoung feels the way he melts a little further into him, pressing him firmly into the couch. He quickly tires of just feeling him over his clothes, though, and reaches under Sangwoo’s shirt to touch the smooth expanse of skin.

Stilling his fingers as he feels Sangwoo tense, Jaeyoung hums a little as his boyfriend merely adjusts, shifting until he’s straddling Jaeyoung, thighs on either side of his hips, head resting comfortably on Jaeyoung’s chest as his attention never falters from the show.

Taking that as further permission to do whatever he wishes, Jaeyoung’s hands land on Sangwoo’s thighs. His boyfriend radiates warmth and Jaeyoung gives up all pretense of following along, instead losing himself in the feel of his boyfriend.

He rubs his palms down the outside of his thighs in broad strokes, pauses only to squeeze gently at the flesh. Sangwoo feels so good in his hands, so solid and real.

Feeling the slight give of his hips, as he brings his hands up, Jaeyoung swallows a noise building in the back of his throat, knowing not to try to pull Sangwoo’s attention until the episode is over.

Jaeyoung contents himself with feeling his boyfriend up for the remaining minutes of the episode– hands roving over his back, squeezing his ass before moving back to his hips. He’s just hearing the opening notes of the drama’s credits music when Sangwoo starts moving.

He leans up suddenly over Jaeyoung and Jaeyoung loves this too– he’s usually towering over Sangwoo but being on the flipside makes him hot in a different way.

Placing his hands on either side of Jaeyoung’s head, Sangwoo asks, “Were you trying to distract me?”

Jaeyoung gives his best innocent look, wide eyes that he knows makes Sangwoo weak. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Shaking his head a little– to clear it, Jaeyoung thinks smugly– Sangwoo frowns down at him. He’s gotten much better in the months they’ve been dating at telling when Sangwoo is genuinely annoyed, however, and this look does nothing but make Jaeyoung want to play more.

He grabs Sangwoo’s hips, thumbs digging in just a little and is rewarded with a hitching breath.

As he looks up at his boyfriend, Jaeyoung’s struck with how cute he is. It feels like Sangwoo gets cuter every day and he can’t get enough.

Still, something seems a little different now, today. The apartment is quiet, the last of the show playing out as Jaeyoung and Sangwoo study each other.

Jaeyoung takes great pride in knowing Sangwoo. He loves watching him, whether he’s sleeping or playing video games or grocery shopping. He figures that he probably looks at Sangwoo more than anyone else.

It’s not until now, though, that an idea starts to form in his head. His eyes scan over the curve of Sangwoo’s cheeks, and he takes his time dragging his hands from Sangwoo’s knees up his thighs. One hand comes to rest on his boyfriend’s ass, the other inches up until his shirt until Jaeyoung can draw an aimless pattern on his side, over his stomach.

It seems obvious now that he’s thinking about it, that Sangwoo's gained some weight since they started dating. It’s hardly anything, barely noticeable, and only now so because Jaeyoung’s so intimately acquainted with his boyfriend’s body.

Jaeyoung thinks, as he always does, that his boyfriend is cute as shit.

Reaching up to gently grab Sangwoo’s chin, he guides his boyfriend down into a kiss. It starts soft and sweet. Sangwoo’s lips are achingly plush and Jaeyoung’s lost more than one evening kissing his boyfriend silly.

Jaeyoung’s distracted with his realization, though. He knows it makes sense. He's heard about it before, relationship weight gain. Something sparks in him because it supposedly only happens when someone feels happy in a relationship, secure and comfortable. To see evidence that Sangwoo feels like that with him creates a chain reaction in Jaeyoung. Because sure, Jaeyoung is an ace at reading his boyfriend and Sangwoo, now that they're in a relationship, never hesitates to let Jaeyoung know what he's thinking, but it feels different to feel it so tangibly, to see it with his own eyes in a new way.

He knows there's more at play, too. Sangwoo’s diet is more varied now that they’re dating– Jaeyoung likes to try different restaurants and Sangwoo has realized that he likes trying new foods. Jaeyoung acknowledges his tendency to dote on Sangwoo has definitely played a part.

Their kisses grow deeper and Jaeyoung gasps when Sangwoo’s suddenly pulling back, just to start mouthing along his neck. His boyfriend settles against him, hips pressing firmly down and when they align just as Sangwoo bites down, Jaeyoung's eyes roll back at pleasure sparks up his spine.

His thoughts fragment into a million pieces. All he can focus on is the visceral feel of Sangwoo against him, moving in a way that ought to be illegal as he comes back up to his mouth.

The only thing in his head is how much he loves Sangwoo and how much he wants him, all the time, any way he can him him.

----

Sangwoo looks up at the mirror, frowning at his reflection before he looks back down to where he was buttoning his jeans.

Or at least he’d planned to but it looks like that is no longer possible.

He wonders for a brief moment, if he’d messed up last week’s laundry but he didn’t deviate from his standard process so he knows that can’t be it.

Looking back up at the mirror, he’s confused all over again. It’s not that the jeans don’t necessarily fit, they’re just tighter than he’s used to. This has never happened before and as he considers his options, he supposes that he’d been distracted enough recently not to have noticed that as his days changed, there would be expected outcomes.

Sangwoo can admit that before Jaeyoung, his diet rarely strayed from the familiar and routine. He had breakfast, ate lunch at the cafeteria on campus, and dinner was usually a quiet affair with ramyeon at home or a quick fried rice with banchan.

Besides his prized Blackholic, or his weekend trips to a cafe in the next neighborhood, Sangwoo planned his meals for their simplicity and overall nutritional value.

He didn’t have much time between classes and projects and he didn’t want to spend his free time in the kitchen or dining at restaurants. He was competent enough at a few staple recipes– and in the winters, he found the relaxing routine of making kimchi jjigae or, on particularly cold weekend mornings Jjinppang with red bean paste, enjoyable.

Still, Sangwoo had always ascribed food as fuel. His mother vehemently disagreed whenever he visited home– she would always send him back to his apartment with loads of food– but Sangwoo liked his life as simple and predictable as possible and that meant food was no fuss, no frills.

Then along came Jaeyoung.

As the annoying senior wriggled his way into Sangwoo’s life, his routines were carelessly ruffled. As Sangwoo fell for Jaeyoung and allowed himself to enjoy all the ways their lives intertwined, he found a new appreciation for being– well for being spoiled, he supposed.

Jaeyoung was an affectionate, attentive boyfriend. Sangwoo still remembers the jolt of surprise and pleasure when Jaeyoung had handed him that ugly ass cake for his birthday. Even though the circumstances surrounding it were less than ideal, he couldn’t deny the glowing warmth in his chest when he’d realized that not only had Jaeyoung noticed when his birthday was, but he’d gone out of his way to get him something.

And while Sangwoo tries to reciprocate in his own ways and makes a concerted effort to give too– he’s come to enjoy Jaeyoung’s flustered smile when he catches him off guard with a coffee at the studio on late nights, or the happy smile when he sends his boyfriend off for his day with lunch packed– Sangwoo has let himself enjoy being on the receiving end of such kind, thoughtful gestures.

It helps that he has an unabashed sweet tooth.

He’d mostly ignored it, except for his weekly jaunt to that bakery on Sunday mornings, but Jaeyoung had brought it roaring back to the forefront. It seems like every time he turned around, Sangwoo was being surprised with a treat. Each time, Jaeyoung waved his thanks away but it really does mean a lot– and truth be told, is something that seems to have worked its way into Sangwoo’s routine.

That, along with the two of them wandering around Seoul on dates, had surely wreaked havoc with Sangwoo’s careful and consistent meals.

As he studies himself in the mirror, Sangwoo knows that the handful of kilos he’s gained is an accurate reflection of his new lifestyle.

Tugging his pants off and putting them away, instead reaching for a different pair, Sangwoo thinks over this new change.

In truth, he hadn’t realized because he’s been so busy with everything else going on– his first relationship is a lot of time and effort. Jaeyoung himself is a distraction of the best kind, Sangwoo knows. Add to the fact that his courseload this semester is more intense and he’s been busy working with his boyfriend on Veggie Venturer, and it’s no wonder that he hadn’t cataloged the changes and their impact.

Finishing getting dressed, Sangwoo goes into the kitchen. He washes his hands and starts preparing his simple breakfast– a couple of eggs with rice.

Sangwoo’s found that while some things in his routine are now permanently less predictable, he still greatly enjoys maintaining a routine when he can. As such, he eats the same breakfast every morning before heading to campus.

Jaeyoung’s often with him, but this morning his boyfriend had been out of the apartment early in the morning to meet for a group project. Sangwoo plans to meet him at the coffeeshop he’s camping out at sometime in the afternoon after his statistics class ends.

Making breakfast, his thoughts are pulled back to this morning’s realization.

He wonders if he should feel more about it than he does. It doesn’t really make a difference to him– he’d only noticed because his pants fit a little differently this morning. They aren’t a favorite pair of his, Sangwoo idly considers as he pours the eggs into the heated pan. He doesn’t mind discarding them since they had shrunk a fair bit during their first wash because he hadn’t accounted for the specific material blend.

Otherwise, the weight doesn’t really matter. He is still able to get from point A to point B. His mind is still sharp and able to solve problems in a timely, methodical manner.

Sangwoo very quickly comes to the conclusion that if everything remains in a similar state but the only changes are that he can enjoy quality time with Jaeyoung and he gets to eat fun, frivolous foods on a more regular basis, then he really has no reason to complain or alter the way he spends his days.

That issue settled with a minimum of fuss, Sangwoo finishes his breakfast and quickly washes the dishes he’d used, heading off to campus with a first stop at his preferred vending machine.

It’s hours later and Sangwoo is standing outside of his last class. The class before his must be taking an exam because the room’s still half-full and the door is closed.

Wanting to read a quick article about an actress from the current drama he’s watching with Jaeyoung– the headline mentions that she’ll be doing voice work for an animated series next– Sangwoo’s thumbs stall on the Naver search page.

His thoughts circle back around to the thoughts from this morning. Curious, he instead searches for information on gaining weight when in a relationship. Sangwoo wonders if it’s a situation unique to him or if it’s a usual occurrence.

Scrolling through the first page of results, several of the article titles surprise him. Almost the entirety of the first page seems to center around gaining weight during a new relationship– and wanting to lose it?

Sangwoo’s never thought about his weight one way or another. His height and weight increased with each growth spurt and then had settled the summer before he started college. It’s been a few years now at the same weight and he had no opinions on it. He knew what size clothes to buy and that was it.

He also can’t say that weight is something he really notices about others, either. He tries to ignore most people and the classmates he has formed tentative friendships with are important to him because of their personality or their skill in the computer science program.

Weight’s never been a priority, not something that he’d given more thought to than his height or shoe size.

But now that he’s clicking into a few of the articles and starts skimming through their contents, he starts to wonder if he should be worrying more about these few kilos.

Most of the headlines talk about wanting to reverse the weight gain because they strongly dislike it– Sangwoo’s brow twitches into a frown as he sees one person in particular worry that his partner will no longer find him attractive.

Well, that’s something Sangwoo hadn’t considered.

He knows that he’s only gained a little weight– he himself had just noticed this morning after all. Still, it hadn’t crossed his mind that his boyfriend would care one way or another.

As he reads through this article, though, it seems like the person’s worry rubs off on him. He supposes that the anxiety makes sense. Sangwoo had started dating Jaeyoung looking one particular way and if that way changed, it wasn’t completely illogical for Jaeyoung’s feelings about him and his body to change, too.

That leaves Sangwoo feeling much more nervous than he’d been this morning. He doesn’t mind the way his body looks as long as it continues to function in an optimal state.

He thinks that would change, though, if Jaeyoung wasn’t as attracted to him.

Frowning down at his phone, Sangwoo doesn’t notice the classroom has emptied out and he’s the last one standing outside. He doesn’t notice until the professor– who was brilliant but always tardy– comes striding down the hallway and greets him.

Sangwoo hurries to take his seat, aligning everything neatly in his usual spot. He opens his notebook to take notes but is quickly distracted by his revelation just a few moments ago.

He spends the next two hours working through this new puzzle. He considers his options, looking through the whiteboard at the front of the classroom without taking anything in, pen lax in his hand.

There’s a large piece of Sangwoo that still doesn’t think his weight should matter in a relationship. As long as there are no problems, then his body is his to do with as he pleases.

But there’s still that part of him that doesn’t want to do anything to make Jaeyoung less– well, less in love with him, Sangwoo admits.

This might be Sangwoo’s first relationship but he can’t imagine wanting anyone else as much as he does Jaeyoung. It seems foolish to do anything to jeopardize that.

If Jaeyoung doesn’t like that his thighs are a bit softer or that his stomach isn’t as flat then does Sangwoo have an obligation to return to the state that Jaeyoung does like?

Quickly opening a new tab, Sangwoo searches for ways to lose weight. He is immediately filled with dread. He’s never been a physically active person– he abhorred physical education in school and doesn’t have a gym membership. His morning exercises are more to wake up than anything else. He enjoys walking and likes riding his bike but that’s it.

The next logical step would be to give up all of the foods that he’s gotten used to lately, which also fills Sangwoo with dread and a sliver of annoyance.

He likes being able to eat Jaeyoung’s treats– he likes his boyfriend teasing him about stealing his dessert and he enjoys sweets after a meal.

In the course of a class, Sangwoo turns this unexpected dilemma around and examines all the angles. It’s probably the least he’s ever paid attention to a class– with the few notable exceptions of when Jaeyoung had first started his little mission– but by the end, Sangwoo is filled with resolved.

Sangwoo likes how he is now and he likes what he has with Jaeyoung. If his boyfriend has a problem with that then that is none of his concern. After all, Sangwoo dryly thinks, it’s his fault in the first place.

Feeling confident in his decision, Sangwoo heads to the coffeeshop Jaeyoung had texted him earlier. It’s a little further from campus but it’s a sunny day so Sangwoo enjoys the bike ride, especially since there’s little traffic today.

By the time that Sangwoo gets to the coffeeshop, the rest of Jaeyoung’s project members have left and his boyfriend has moved to a smaller table by the front window. Walking in, Sangwoo immediately sees him and he revels in the little flutter in his chest at getting to observe his very attractive boyfriend.

Jaeyoung’s wearing his glasses, so focused on his laptop that he doesn’t see Sangwoo. So, Sangwoo takes the opportunity to study him from his place by the front door.

Sangwoo was surprised at how much he enjoys this, just looking at his boyfriend. He’s lost a lot of time in the mornings or at night or simply walking around their neighborhood, observing Jaeyoung. It’s a view that never gets old.

Finally ready to interrupt his boyfriend’s focus, Sangwoo heads over to the table, placing his bookbag over the back of his chair. Sitting down across from Jaeyoung, his eyes immediately catch on the mismatched plate before him.

It’s been placed squarely on his side of the table. On the plate is a chocolate croissant. The edges are golden brown and the chocolate still looks a little warm and gooey. Sangwoo’s mouth waters a bit in anticipation.

The thoughts of the day come back, though, and he’s hesitant to reach for it. Sangwoo spares a moment to think that Jaeyoung must not have noticed anything different about him, if he’s continuing to dote on him like this.

Unsure, he doesn’t notice that his boyfriend is watching him with that look in his eye– the one that’s filled with fondness and amusement and love.

“Sangwoo-ah, what did that poor croissant ever do to you, to have you glaring at it like that?” Jaeyoung’s voice is full of laughter and when Sangwoo looks up, the warmth in his eyes is familiar and echoes in his own chest.

Sangwoo just blinks at him. “Did you buy this for me?”

Raising a brow, Jaeyoung leans over the table. It’s infuriating that he looks even better up close. He nods decisively. “I did.” He starts frowning. “If anyone else starts buying you pastries, let me know, okay? That’s something only I, Jang Jaeyoung, have the privilege of doing.”

“Yes, hyung,” Sangwoo dutifully agrees.

Looking between the croissant and Jaeyoung a few times, Sangwoo remembers his resolve from earlier and says a mental fuck it. He reaches for the pastry.

The first bite tastes amazing, the bitter chocolate and buttery dough almost instantly waking him up a little from where he’d wilted in the late afternoon stretch. He takes another bite before looking back up at Jaeyoung.

His boyfriend is watching him with a satisfied grin on his face, resting his head on his hand. He looks like there’s no place else he’d rather be than watching Sangwoo eat this croissant.

“Aigoo, my Sangwoo-ah is so cute,” Jaeyoung coos. Sangwoo swallows just as Jaeyoung reaches out and pinches his cheek a little. “I’m so lucky, having a boyfriend that’s so sweet.”

Used to his boyfriend’s antics, Sangwoo still can’t help his smile at hearing his boyfriend’s words.

Deflecting, Sangwoo takes another bite of the croissant. The next few moments are spent quietly- Sangwoo eating and Jaeyoung studying him with the kind of interest that he thinks should be reserved for pieces in museums or especially creative code.

Done with the croissant, Sangwoo snags a napkin from the table. He’s startled when Jaeyoung moves, deftly sweeping a thumb across the corner of his lips. When his boyfriend pulls his hand back, he instantly pops it into his own mouth.

Sangwoo just looks at him. Jaeyoung grins back, winking.

“You had some chocolate there,” he explains, gesturing to his own mouth. He raises his eyebrows as if in a challenge– what else could I be expected to do?

Their conversation quickly picks up from there. Sangwoo loves talking to Jaeyoung. He never would have imagine during those first few days, but conversations with Jaeyoung are stimulating, totally engrossing.

It’s one of Sangwoo’s favorite parts of their relationship. His hyung is wicked smart and his wit is sharp as hell. Sangwoo has lost count of the many times that Jaeyoung has made him consider a different side to a debate or the times he's walked away from a discussion learning something new. Talking with his boyfriend can meander through several topics all in the course of a single sitting.

There aren't many people who can keep up with Sangwoo, or retain his attention. Since almost the beginning, Jaeyoung has been totally captivating. Sangwoo’s prone to thinking that he could listen to Jaeyoung talk for hours uninterrupted- and has on a few occasions, when he needs to talk through a prospective assignment or when he lands on a impassioned diatribe about visual design in different mediums.

Their discussion flows for the next few hours as they grab dinner at a local restaurant that had quickly become one of their favorites. Jaeyoung’s in the middle of dramatically defending his stance that he looks good in every color but especially red when he starts absently plucking his own radish onto Sangwoo’s plate.

Not for the first time, Sangwoo notices that his boyfriend is habitually trying to feed him. He knows that’s just one part of how Jaeyoung cares for him. He’d stumbled across a very interesting website on love languages back in the early days of their relationship and had walked away knowing that Jaeyoung seemed to possess all of them.

His boyfriend has never been shy in complimenting Sangwoo, praising his abilities and teasing him in a way that only he’s allowed. They spend much of their free time together and Sangwoo enjoys how tactile his boyfriend is– whether it’s having sex or a simple arm across his shoulder as they walk down the block, Jaeyoung really enjoys feeling Sangwoo.

Sangwoo feels the same, though he’d been more hesitant at first to initiate such contact. It helps that Jaeyoung always looks so pleased about it, happy and wondrous and excited whenever Sangwoo reaches out first.

Still, this is a daily occurrence in their relationship. Jaeyoung’s always doing this and doesn’t even seem to realize.

“Hyung,” Sangwoo breaks through, gesturing with his chopsticks to the small pile of radish on his plate. “Stop giving me your vegetables.”

Jaeyoung looks surprised for a moment before he just smiles and deliberately places the last piece right on top of the little tower. “Eat well, baby. Vegetables have those nutrients you love.”

Sangwoo just looks at him and it’s hard not to smile too, when Jaeyoung huffs out a fond laugh, looking away sheepishly.

“Well, what do you expect from me,” he blusters, tone defensive. “You’re my boyfriend– I’m the hyung! I’m just doing what I’m supposed to. I get full just from watching you eat, Sangwoo-ah.”

Sangwoo narrows his eyes a little before his shoulders slump in defeat. He sighs and reaches for the piece on top.

He refuses to acknowledge Jaeyoung’s smug look.

Dinner is pleasant, as it always is when it’s just the two of them. Sangwoo likes eating with their friends, too, but there’s something special about having this time to spend just with his boyfriend that makes it all the better.

They stop by a stationary store afterwards because Jaeyoung needs some supplies and pop into the corner mart to pick up a few odd and end groceries.

It’s all so delightfully domestic and Sangwoo enjoys this part of their routine a lot. He finds grocery shopping much more fun with Jaeyoung, even if it’s not as efficient.

When it’s just him, he has a list and knows exactly where to go. He doesn’t deviate, nothing catches his eye.

When he’s with Jaeyoung, however, his boyfriend likes to browse. He’ll pull Sangwoo along as they walk along the beverage coolers or examine the produce to see if anything looks particularly good.

Jaeyoung likes to drape himself over Sangwoo’s back when they do this, wrapping his arms around his middle. Together, they’ll shuffle down the aisle. There’s no real purpose to it, not when they don’t need whatever they’re looking at, but it’s a few moments of them enjoying each other’s company and that is extremely enjoyable for Sangwoo.

Jaeyoung has a habit of reading tabloid headlines out loud when they’re at the checkout line, trying to annoy Sangwoo with his disbelief or scandalized tone.

Sangwoo bears it silently, as always, though the fond look in his eye betrays him."

The walk back to Sangwoo’s apartment is quiet. Their last topic had dwindled to an end and Sangwoo didn’t feel a particularly need to initiate another. While he loves talking to Jaeyoung, silence is also something he looks forward to when it’s shared with him.

It had been a bit surprising at first, that his boyfriend could enjoy the quiet just as much as him. For all that Jaeyoung had done his level best to irritate the shit out of him– never shutting up, being all around loud and present– that very first time Sangwoo had allowed him into his place had gone differently than he’d figured.

Having Jaeyoung assure him that he was simply messaging his friends, the moment where they’d just looked at each other– the silence had been deafening.

When Sangwoo had tended to the cut on his arm, he’d been overly conscious of the way his heart was beating in his chest, the way his breath wasn’t quite as steady as it should have been.

When they’d started working together at Jaeyoung’s studio, seeing his hyung sleeping was an arresting sight. He looked so peaceful, so far from the menace he was whenever he was awake.

And now that they’re together, they both have shared how much they appreciate that they can enjoy the silences with each other. Jaeyoung likes having a quiet place he can crash away from his life outside and Sangwoo– well, Sangwoo just likes that his prized time at home isn’t interrupted by the presence of someone else. No, instead it’s nice to share it with someone.

Not to say that Sangwoo doesn’t still need time completely to himself, but it doesn’t happen quite as much as he’d thought it would.

They’re both in bed now, pajamas on and teeth freshly brushed. While Jaeyoung doesn’t spend every night with Sangwoo, it happens often enough that Sangwoo’s started to think of it as their place in his head.

He’s already putting together a PowerPoint for why they should live together, ready to present it in a couple of months so that they have ample time to find an apartment that can accommodate them both before their respective leases are up.

Sangwoo’s a little more tired than usual. He thinks that he used up too much energy focused on his dilemma earlier.

Now that they’re home, Sangwoo finds himself relaxing completely into Jaeyoung.

His boyfriend is watching an episode of his favorite anime on his phone above him. Sangwoo feels the steady beat of his heart underneath him and it’s comforting, fills him completely with warmth.

He’s quiet, listening idly to the episode as he works through the question that’s been on his mind earlier. After most of the episode has passed by– and Sangwoo has smiled to himself at least three times, feeling his boyfriend laugh under him– he comes to the conclusion that this is something that requires open and honest communication.

Sangwoo told Jaeyoung once that people need to let go of unnecessary things, lest they stop working optimally. He doesn’t want this to be something that drags him down.

So, when the episode finishes, Sangwoo clears his throat.

Lowering his phone, Jaeyoung looks down at him with a small smile, humming to let him know he’s listening.

“I want to talk to you about something, hyung.”

Immediately looking more alert, Jaeyoung sits up a bit more. “What is it, Sangwoo-ah?”

Sangwoo keeps it short and sweet and while he doesn’t outwardly betray his emotion, something in him lightens considerably at the way his boyfriend’s eyes instantly widen in surprised alarm as he starts laying out his thoughts.

Ending things with, “And I’ve decided that I don’t care about a handful of kilos. However, I’ve read online that a romantic or sexual partner might and I wanted to know your opinion.”

Sangwoo doesn’t mention his resolve earlier, that he doesn’t care what Jaeyoung thinks. The truth is, it’s a tiny kernel of worry that he hasn’t been able to squash and he does want to know.

The first thing Jaeyoung does is take his face in his hands and kiss him, long and hard, until Sangwoo’s breathless. He’s caught so off guard, that he doesn’t even try to tamp down on the noise that escapes him– a bitten off moan, a hint of a whine when Jaeyoung eventually pulls away.

Jaeyoung rolls them over until he’s the one leaning over Sangwoo. Caged in like this, Sangwoo feels surrounded. Jaeyoung is so much bigger than him, that it’s easy to feel small. It’s a feeling Jaeyoung likes and it sets another part of him at ease.

“Sangwoo-ah, baby,” Jaeyoung starts, voice quiet but eyes so intense that Sangwoo wants to look away but he’s caught. “I love you so much.”

“I love you too, hyung,” Sangwoo assures him, mouth tipped up in just the suggestion of a smile.

Jaeyoung’s eyes brighten. He shifts a little, letting a bit more of his weight settle into Sangwoo. It’s not uncomfortable– quite the opposite, in fact. One of Sangwoo’s favorite feelings is being pressed into the nearest surface by Jaeyoung. It makes him feel safe, lets him focus on nothing else except the man in front of him.

Sangwoo studies Jaeyoung’s face in the muted light of their bedroom. His gaze drops to his boyfriend’s mouth, always so expressive, and catches on the way Jaeyoung bites his lip.

It’s a sure sign that he’s thinking through what he wants to say, taking his time to make sure there’s no misunderstanding between them.

“I love your mind and your personality and the way you roll your eyes when I tease you– and yeah, I love your body too, baby. But I love it because it’s yours. That’s it. Nothing else. So if you’re asking if I’m still insanely into you and want you all the time, then the answer is yes– and that’ll never change, not as long as you want me.”

Sangwoo opens his mouth to offer a counterargument but Jaeyoung stops him in his tracks. First by shaking his head to stave him off, and then leaning down to kiss him, quicker than a moment ago but dirtier, filled with Jaeyoung’s undying want.

Jaeyoung smiles a little at the way Sangwoo looks up at him after, eyes slowly blinking open and quietly pleased. His boyfriend looks dazed, one of Jaeyoung’s favorite looks on him– his smartass boyfriend, brought down by a kiss.

God, he’s so cute.

Jaeyoung doesn’t let himself look as long as he wants. Instead, he leans back down, slower this time just to hear the way Sangwoo’s breath hitches. He angles his face at the last moment, though, and noses along Sangwoo’s cheek.

“I love you like this.” He nibbles along Sangwoo’s jaw, kisses him under his ear. “Love you any way I can have you.”

Jaeyoung groans a little and can’t help but laugh softly too, because he’s so gone on the man under him and it’s ridiculous, how much he feels right now. He can’t believe that his Sangwoo would have these kinds of thoughts but he swears to himself that today will be the only day, that he’ll make sure Sangwoo doesn’t have a single doubt about how Jaeyoung feels about him by the time he falls asleep tonight.

One of Jaeyoung’s hands sweep down his boyfriend’s side. It comes to rest under his shirt– Jaeyoung’s, because Sangwoo likes to sleep in oversized clothes, and hadn’t that thrown him for a fucking loop the first time he’d come out of the bathroom just to see Sangwoo swimming in one of his favorite band shirts– his fingers flexing over the soft, warm skin of his hip.

“I told you before that I like seeing you enjoy yourself. It makes me happy knowing that you like what I give you and I like taking care of you in this way. I promise you, Sangwoo-ah, I love everything about you and that most definitely includes your body any way it comes.”

Sangwoo feels warm, verging on hot, under the onslaught of attention from Jaeyoung.

The words are short, leaving no room for misinterpretation.

Sangwoo loves the way that Jaeyoung can cut through the bullshit– he knows exactly what to say to him, how to say it, too.

Direct and honest communication doesn’t have to be hard, Sangwoo knows. It’s rare to find someone else who knows how to, though. For the hundredth time, he’s glad that he has Jaeyoung.

“Thank you, hyung,” Sangwoo whispers, more breath than words.

Against where he’s kissing a line down his neck, Sangwoo feels Jaeyoung shake his head. “Never thank me for this, Sangwoo-ah. And if I ever do anything to make you unsure, I want you to kick my ass, okay?”

He comes back up to meet Sangwoo’s eyes for the last part, his own gaze fever bright and his grin devilish.

Sangwoo loves it, loves him.

He nods a little, words getting caught in his throat. It’s okay, though, because Jaeyoung just continues roaming around his body, hand squeezing his thigh rough enough to make Sangwoo gasp– in direct contrast to the way he lays a kiss on the high of his cheekbone, featherlight.

Jaeyoung’s breath is warm against his ear as he takes the lobe between his teeth, nibbling sweetly.

In the next moment– and Sangwoo is easily overwhelmed by Jaeyoung when he’s like this, loves that his brain just turns off and he’s left just to feel– his boyfriend hitches his leg high on his hip.

They fit together well, Sangwoo thinks, flush traveling down his chest at the heat banked under his skin.

“What would you say if I told you that I think you’re even cuter like this, baby? Just when I think you can’t get any more perfect, I wake up the next morning to see I was wrong, again. Every day, Sangwoo-ah.”

Jaeyoung’s voice is low in his ear, rough. A shiver snakes up Sangwoo’s spine, hearing how affected Jaeyoung is over him. It’s undeniably sexy, the way Jaeyoung doesn’t hide how Sangwoo makes him feel.

In fact, Jaeyoung’s shameless when it’s just the two of them. Sangwoo starts to think that he was silly for even entertaining the idea that his boyfriend didn’t find him desirable.

Any remaining tension leaves Sangwoo as the last shred of his uncertainty ebbs away. He arches into Jaeyoung, tightening his thigh to pull them closer together.

“Fuck,” Jaeyoung rasps under his breath and he huffs out a laugh, so turned on and desperate for it. “You drive me fucking crazy, Sangwoo-ah.”

A tiny laugh escapes Sangwoo– pleased that he can have such an effect on Jaeyoung.

His laughter soon turns into a moan though, as Jaeyoung’s hand drifts lower.

Then it’s Jaeyoung’s turn to laugh in his ear, wicked and fond, as he spends most of the night backing up his words with action.

The next morning, Sangwoo is late walking into class for an entirely different reason. He hears his classmates whispering to themselves when he walks in behind the professor, unable to stop the small smile from curving along his mouth. As always, his boyfriend is to blame for his lack of punctuality.

Still, he’s glad that Jaeyoung’s hoodie covers up the most blatant of the marks.

[heretherebedork]

SangWoo finally works up the courage to take a chance only to find out that the chance has to end and knows he can't handle that and knows that is his greatest fear and so he rejects out of hand before he can be hurt, rejects the idea before he can risk himself, rejects his own acceptance to try to protect himself.