#obviously if i pursue this with kim i can rewrite the past and get a second chance

[fruitydiaz]

at first i was like why didn’t they make the sex flashback with shannon clearly a flashback like the others in the episode and then i realized that it wasn’t a flashback eddie’s just actively rewriting his relationship with shannon while eating lunch with his girlfriend and plotting to cheat on her with the random woman he met at a boutique that slightly resembles his dead wife who did in fact ask him for a divorce before she died but eddie’s not gonna remember that detail rn is he

[goldenlaurelleaveswrites]

Juleka vs. the Forces of the Universe ch 9

Juleka vs. the Forces of the People of Paris

Juleka vs. the Forces of the Universe (AO3)

Hi everyone! Thank you so much for your patience with this chapter. I know I had warned you that updates might not be as often, but I didn't think it would take me this long. If I'm being honest, this (and the next two chapters) were 90% written when the last one went up, but between life stuff and the first scene in this just not cooperating with me... things took longer than anticipated.

I still need to rewrite a few scenes for the next chapter, and I'm still in the middle of job hunting so I can't guarantee when the next chapter will go up, but I'll try not to make you wait a month! 💖💖💖

Also, please do yourselves a favour and check out this AMAZING piece of art created by the extremely talented @sayuri12moonlight 

_________________________________________________

“Alright, now close your eyes.” Marinette’s eyes fluttered shut. “Ok, I’m going to do the eyeshadow now.” 

Carefully, and with the gentlest amount of pressure she could, she began brushing the pigment across Marinette’s eyelid. The way she had learned to in the most recent session of the makeup masterclass. The masterclass had been the perfect excuse to move up the photoshoot, but it was also serving as the perfect excuse to spend more time with Marinette. 

Because she needed models to practice the techniques on. And it was easier to do it with one person at a time. That way, there was no bored Alix bouncing around the room, or squealing Rose and Alya, or nervous Mylène to distract her. 

And if it meant a greater opportunity to figure out what was going with Marinette—besides her frankly ridiculous belief that Luka didn’t like her— and why she wasn’t pursuing Luka when she so obviously wanted to… Well, she was never one to look a gift horse in the mouth. 

The question was, how was she going to get back onto that topic. The night they had been working on math homework, Marinette had brought the subject up. Or rather, given her a way to bring it up. 

Dipping her brush into another eyeshadow, she thoughtfully tapped it against the palette to dislodge any excess as she tried to figure out a way to start the conversation. But before she could think of a casual opener, Alya beat her to it. 

Alya 🦊?!: ADRIEN IS @ THE PARK 

Of course, he was.  

Alya 🦊?!: HES DOING A PHOTOSHOOT

Seriously? How many photoshoots had he had at the park in the past year? Even after all the research she did.  

Alya 🦊?!: THIS IS OUR CHANCE

Not likely.  

Alya 🦊?!: EVERYONE GET HERE ASAP

Not a chance. 

Marinette had opened her eyes, her brows furrowing as she read the texts. She could almost see the anxiety brewing in her friend. 

Mylène 🌼 : I can be there in ten. But I have a date at 3 so I can’t stay long. 

Alix 🛼 : Kim and I are racing

Alix 🛼 : Should I bring him too? 

Alya 🦊?!: ABSOLUTELY NOT 

Rose 🌹💗: I’m about to take my brother to the movies

Rose 🌹💗: But good luck!!! 💗💗💗🥰🥰🥰

Alya 🦊?!: Mari? Juleka?

Alya 🦊?!: COME ON

Alya 🦊?!: HE WONT BE HERE MUCH LONGER

Alya 🦊?!: WE HAVE TO HURRY 

So much for finding a way to get the topic onto Luka. 

A look of total defeat washed over Marinette’s face as she began to pull herself up off the floor.“I guess we should get going-“

“Why?”

Marinette gaped at her, her mouth opening and closing. “B-because… Alya said so-“

“Do you want to go?” 

“I-I…” When was the last time someone had asked what Marinette wanted? Because looking at her friend’s face, she couldn’t help but think it hadn’t been for a long time. Guilt washed over her; she had been part of the problem. If she hadn’t discovered Marinette’s secret, would she still be? She shook her head. Now wasn’t the time to be thinking of herself. 

“We can go,” she mumbled, “but only if you want to.” 

Marinette’s eyes darted over to the pictures on her wall, swallowing loudly. “I’m supposed to go…” she bit back the urge to tell Marinette that she wasn’t supposed to do anything she didn’t want to. “I’m supposed to like Adrien…” Marinette mumbled, not sounding very convinced or convincing. But before she could say anything to even begin to unpack what Marinette had just said, her friend continued, her eyes glued to the floor. “I’m supposed to be with him. That’s what Alya keeps telling me…” 

Her stomach sank. She did not like where this was going. 

“And Alya is always right about these things.” Alya? Always right? Maybe in Alya’s head- but why would Marinette- “She says he and I are meant to be.” She was really starting to hate that phrase. 

“Alya isn’t always right,” she said gently. Especially about this. “You don’t have to-“

“The rest of the girls too. And my parents adore him. And Tik- my other friend. They all say Adrien and I were made for each other. Sometimes,” Marinette mumbled, “it feels like the universe is telling me I’m supposed to be with him.”

What?

“And if the universe is telling me something…”

“But what about what you want?” 

Marinette looked away, biting her lip. “I- it doesn’t matter. He- he doesn’t… We should probably get going before Alya-“

Alya 🦊?!: HES LEAVING

Alya 🦊?!: you guys missed him

Alya 🦊?!: WHERE WERE YOU

Alya 🦊?!: WHY DIDNT YOU ANSWER???!!!

She didn’t miss the way the tension almost melted out of Marinette’s shoulders. “We should- we should get back to the makeup then. You need to build up your portfolio, right?” she asked with a wavering smile. 

“Uh, yeah… what you said, about the-” 

Marinette sighed. “I know it’s silly, but… sometimes… it doesn’t matter.” she shook her head and plastered a horribly fake smile on her face. “I’m just going to… I’m just going to go to the washroom real quick. I’ll be right back!”

She laid a hand on Marinette’s knee before she could get up. “You don’t have to listen to Alya. Or the others. You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to… but… do you need to… do you need to talk? You know I’m always here for you, right?”

“I’m fine,” Marinette’s voice was bright and cheery. Her words were an obvious lie. “I’ll be right back.” 

It was clear to the topic was closed. But as she watched Marinette disappear into the washroom, no doubt to try and collect herself, she couldn’t help but think about what she had said. 

And the more she thought about it, the more her stomach began to churn. Alya wasn’t shy about saying Marinette and Adrien were meant for each other. She knew the whole class was guilty of it in one way or another. She knew freaking Andre was guilty of it. 

But Marinette had said… 

Who else was saying it? 

                                                              ***

Her head was still reeling from her talk with Marinette as she trudged across the gangplank. A melancholy melody floated up from below deck; the question was, was Luka picking up on her mood from all the way up here? Or was he playing it for himself? 

She made her way below deck, nudging open the door to their bedroom. 

Luka was sitting on his bed, his guitar in hand —as always—and he was glaring at his phone. That was new. 

“Hey, what’s up?’ she mumbled as she plopped herself on her bed. 

He jumped. That was new too. He was usually pretty aware of his surroundings. 

“Nothing,” he sighed before trying to smile. “How was the makeover session?” 

The thing about Luka and Marinette was that they were both terrible liars. 

“A. Not a makeover, just me practicing makeup. B. You suck at lying.”

“I’m not-“

“You say you’re fine. Your music says you’re close to dead inside.” She got up and settled herself beside him on his bed. “You wanna talk about it…?” Her voice trailed off as she caught sight of his phone screen. 

Alya had sent him a barrage of texts demanding to know where Marinette was and why she wasn’t answering her phone. More than half of the texts mentioned Adrien and how this was Marinette’s chance to get with him and have her happily ever after. 

He hadn’t answered any of them. But from the open text conversation and the look on his face, it was clear he had read them. 

“Sometimes,” he sighed, his eyes glued to the phone screen, “it feels like the universe is trying to tell me something.” His eyes flickered to some of the pictures they had on their communal photo wall. His eyes seemed to land on the picture from a group outing from the previous summer. One where they had all gotten ice cream from Andre’s. His eyes seemed to fixate on Marinette’s peach and mint… Oh no. “And if the universe is trying to tell me something, shouldn’t I listen?”

“No.” 

                                                             ***

She cringed as she watched Marinette flail desperately before toppling over into the bushes. Adrien was chuckling, even as he held out his hand to help Marinette up. But that just made things worse. From where she was standing, it looked like Marinette had tried to scramble back—or maybe get up on her own— but it looked like her hair had gotten caught in the branches. 

“Those two really are made for each other.” 

She groaned. “Are you kidding me?” 

“Excuse me?” She blanched. She hadn’t meant to say that out loud.  She turned in the direction of the voice. Sitting on the bench next to the one she had been sitting on was an old man in the brightest Hawaiian shirt she had ever seen. He was looking at her quizzically. “Why would you say they aren’t made for each other?” 

Did this guy know Marinette and Adrien? 

“Ummm…” he was still staring at her, waiting expectantly for an answer. Well, if he wanted an answer, she may as well give him a good one. “Because they’re terrible for each other.” 

The man’s brows furrowed in confusion. “Why would you say that?”

“Because she can’t get a single sentence out straight around him-“

“Ah,” he sighed wistfully, “young love-“

“Because,” she barrelled on, cutting him off, “he sends her anxiety into overdrive. And he never shows any real interest in her except when it’s convenient or they’re in a group setting. And she’s so convinced of his supposed perfection that she can’t see that their friendship is almost completely one-sided. Not to mention, she can’t admit to his faults. And he barely acknowledges her existence most of the time.”

“Oh… I see…” the man mumbled. “Well, I must be off. Thank you for sharing your… thoughts with me.” The man hurried away before she could say anything else. 

                                                             ***

She was beginning to understand where Marinette got the idea that she was supposed to be with Adrien. It seemed like the people of Paris had decided the two were made for each other. 

“I just think they’re so perfect for each other. How can you not see it, Lise? Adrien and Marinette are made for each other.” 

Oh gross. Even Bustier was shilling that nonsense? And why did everyone keep saying that?

“I don’t have time for any of this nonsense, Caline. And neither should you. We are educators, not matchmakers.”  

“There’s no reason we can’t do both. I’m going to pair them up for the group project they’ll be starting today. They can study together and see what a lovely pair they would make.”

Oh no. 

“Whatever you say, Caline. Now, if you’ll excuse me. I need to go prepare the lab for my next class.” 

She ducked out of sight of the door that led to the teacher’s lounge. She hadn’t meant to eavesdrop. But she was glad she had. Because if Mme. Bustier was going to try and set up Adrien and Marinette... she was just going to have to stop her. 

But the question was how? 

She watched as Mme. Mendeleiev walked out of the teacher’s lounge and turned to head towards the science lab. Mme. Bustier came out a minute later, carrying a piece of paper. She peered a little further out from where she was hidden behind a recycling bin. 

There were names on the paper Mme. Bustier was carrying. It looked like… a list! A list of the pairings for the group project! 

Silently, she tailed Mme. Bustier to the classroom. She watched as the teacher placed the list on her desk before ducking out of sight as Mme. Bustier made her way out of the room, not bothering to lock the door behind her. 

She knew where the list was. She knew who Marinette was supposed to be partnered with. But how was she supposed to fix this? 

If she went in and switched the names, Mme. Bustier would notice and just change them back. And that also ran the risk of the teacher recognizing her writing. But she couldn’t just leave the groups as they were… 

A flash of blond hair in the corner of her eyes sent the gears in her mind turning. 

                                                             ***

She had never thought it would be Chloe coming to her rescue. And she had never thought Chloe would fight so valiantly. But she didn’t mind being wrong. 

Especially when the sight—well, sound really, given she was hovering out of sight just outside of the classroom— was so glorious. 

“This is ridiculous! Utterly ridiculous!” Chloe screeched to Mme. Bustier, who she was sure was close to cowering.  

She chanced a peek through the classroom windows. Mme. Bustier was holding her hands out in front of her, but whether she was trying to placate Chloe or protect herself from potential projectiles was unclear. “Now Chloe…” Mme. Bustier said in that voice that she always used when she tried to reason with students, regardless of how reasonable her expectations of her students were. “I don’t know how you found out about the project, but I’ve already assigned partners. I put you with Sabrina; I thought you liked working with-“

“It doesn’t matter how I found out!” It was probably better that Chloe didn’t mention she had overheard her ‘talking’ on the phone about the project. The harder it was to trace this back to her, the better.“I’m going to work with Adrikins!” She almost felt sorry for Adrien.  

“But Chloe-“ 

 Chloe had already whipped out her phone and was waving it tauntingly in the air. This was it, the critical hit. “I’m sure my daddy would love to hear all about how you won’t let me work with someone who could help me achieve my best.” 

Mme. Bustier blanched. “W-well, I suppose I can change the groups, Chloe.”

She ducked out of sight, smiling as she strolled down the hall to find Rose before the lunch period ended. That had been easy. Almost too easy. 

And while Sabrina wasn’t a great partner, Marinette had been stuck with far worse. 

                                                            ***

She had to remind herself not to glower at the camera. Or Alya. Or Nino. 

She was sure Alya had put him up to it, but as far as she was concerned, he was still guilty. She should have known to be suspicious when Nino suggested the class—sans Chloe and Sabrine, who had gone shopping— have a picnic in the park. Nino was not the kind to organize group outings unless it was to shoot one of his short films. She was just glad Luka had come to walk her home from class and had ended up tagging along. 

Although… she cast a surreptitious glance at him as the photographer arranged Kim and Ivan into the frame. The look on Luka’s face when the photographer had directed Marinette to stand right beside Adrien had been a look of pure resignation and defeat. One that matched Marinette’s. 

She should have known better! 

Adrien had had to leave class early because there had been a problem with some of the pictures from his most recent photoshoot. Enough so that they had to be retaken. Unfortunately, she had only found out the reason why Adrien had to leave early after they had arrived at the park. 

And once the shoot had wrapped, Alya had suggested they all take a bunch of pictures so Adrien could start his own photo wall. And the photographer had agreed to take some of the pictures as the photoshoot had wrapped early. 

Which was how they had ended up here. With yet another person—another adult—directing Marinette and Adrien together because ‘they look so perfect together’ as the photographer had said. 

Hadn’t anyone heard of the phrase ‘looks could be deceiving?’ 

She needed to do something. Or else those poor idiots would take this as another sign from the universe that they weren’t supposed to have a chance with each other. 

The flash of the camera’s bulb nearly blinded her. But the photographer’s disgruntled grumbling brought her clarity. 

“The balance is off…” the photographer was grumbling as he looked at the image on the viewfinder. “It looks all wrong… the heights are all over the place!” 

This was her chance. “Excuse me,” she mumbled, squeezing herself out of the back row where the photographer had placed her. She could feel her classmate’s eyes on her, no doubt surprised she was speaking up. But she didn’t pay them any attention. “I have an idea.” 

The photographer’s head snapped up so quickly, she was worried he was going to give himself whiplash. But he just beckoned her over, still grumbling under his breath, complaining about the vast height differences and how everything he tried just looked like a school picture. 

Quickly, she explained her idea. And as she did, the photographer’s smile grew. The last words were barely out of her mouth before the photographer was barking new orders, directing them on how to rearrange themselves. 

Originally the photographer had had the tallest in a row at the back, with everyone else standing in a row in front of them. Very much like a school picture. Which had been weird given they were supposed to be fun pictures. But on the other hand… she couldn’t blame him for being exasperated given how all the height differences had thrown off the other arrangements he had tried. 

But thankfully, her idea was working. 

Adrien was still front and center—as it seemed he always was—but instead of having the tallest people stand in the back, they were all sitting with Adrien on a bench. And the shorter people were standing around them, which made them all easier to frame. 

Kim was sitting on one end of the bench, with a very smug-looking Alix standing next to him with her elbow propped up on his head. Max was standing behind the bench, smiling over Kim’s shoulder. Nino was sitting next to Kim, with Alya standing behind him, resting her chin on top of his head. Then there was Adrien, sitting in the middle of the bench, with Nathaniel placed behind him. She had placed herself beside Adrien, with Rose’s arms around her, hugging her from behind. Ivan and Mylène were sitting on the ground right in front of the bench. And Luka and Marinette… 

Luka was sitting beside her. On the end of the bench. With Marinette beside him. 

“That looks much better!” The photographer cried. And she couldn’t help but agree. 

                                                            ***

“I’m afraid I’m all out of pistachio today!” 

Marinette’s face fell. “Oh… well, could I have two scoops of blueberry then?”

“I’m all out of blueberry too.” She narrowed her eyes at Andre. It wasn’t even noon yet. How could he already be out of two flavours? How could he already be out of those two flavours? “But I have plenty of peach and mint!” 

There it was. 

 “Actually…” Marinette said in a small voice, but Andre was already pulling out his scooper. 

“Peach for his lips, and mint for his eyes! Eat this and your true love will-“

“I’m not really feeling ice cream anyways. What if we grabbed a smoothie instead.”

Alya narrowed her eyes at her. “But we’re getting ice cream.” 

She shrugged. “You guys already have yours. But I don’t really feel like it, and if he doesn’t have what Marinette wants, she doesn't have to get it.”

“But, the peach and mint! It’s the perfect combination for you, pretty Marinette. It was made for you!”

What was with people and saying that? Was all of Paris in on Alya’s schemes? 

She didn’t know. All she knew, was that she was sick of people saying Adrien and Marinette were made for each other. 

“You sell other people mint and peach ice cream. Right?” 

Andre’s eyes widened to the size of saucers before his brow furrowed in confusion. “Yes…?”

“So Marinette isn’t the only one you give mint ice cream to?”

Andre stared at her. She imagined that if his hands weren’t occupied with his ice cream scoop and a cone, he would be scratching his head. “No…?” 

“Same with the peach?” Andre nodded, and she raised a brow. “So the mint and peach weren’t really made for Marinette.” 

Andre’s face began to turn the colour of his cherry ice cream. “But they are. Peach for his lips and mint for his eyes-“

“You could say that none of your ice cream is made for someone.”

“But he and Marinette are made for-“

“In fact, you could say that ice cream is for people to choose.”  

“But-“ 

Alya was outright glaring at her now, suspicion flashing in her eyes. “Girl, seriously? Just let him give her the peach and-“

“Actually,” Marinette’s voice was quiet but still had the strength to cut through Alya’s words, “I think I’m going to get a smoothie too.”

_________________________________________________

Yes, I know a good photographer can take pictures of diverse groups. But since most of the adults in this show have been shown to be incompetent, I figured adding one more would be excusable.

Also, since I couldn't find a canon first name for her, I named Mme. Mendeleiev after the physicist Lise Meitner.

[decayedflower]

Stranger II

⋆ gif is mine

Pairing: Yang Hongwon x Reader

Genre: Underground rapper!Hongwon, Barista!Reader | angst, fluff

Word Count: 5.6k

Summary: Don’t get attached. This was his number one rule. Attachment means getting hurt. Attachment means vulnerability. You are the only person you can trust. So how could she so easily sneak past and break the walls he had worked so hard to build around his heart when all she is, is a stranger?

Warnings: cussing, some angst, hamin being a noodle

A/N: Sorry this took forever to upload, life happens ya know? Next chapter should be more exciting as the ball gets rolling. Hope you guys enjoy :)

You told yourself that no matter how in love you were with someone, you could detach yourself from your emotions enough so that—should the day come—you could live your life without them.

Looking at yourself now, you admit you’re a little ashamed. You couldn’t stop bawling your eyes out for 2 weeks straight. You guess you didn’t do as good a job ‘detaching’ as you thought you did.

You mentally slap yourself. You once lived your life without him bitch, you can do it again. 

It was on a rainy Monday afternoon that you found yourself in bed—cheeto dust on your titties—marathon watching Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-Joo. Curse Nam Joohyuk. How could a man be so goddamn perfect? He was handsome, funny, loving—and most certainly not a CHEATER. 

You sigh and decide that you should probably get up and shower before Hyeri comes home and sees your miserable state. You feel bad worrying her so much. She’s always been way too kind and selfless for her own good.

You grab a fresh set of pj’s and determinedly head to the bathroom. The least you could do was stop moping and try to clear your thoughts of him. For both your sakes.

Just as you finish that thought, you catch sight of the item sitting on top of your dresser. Your favorite hoodie. His hoodie. You scowl and toss it into the trash bin. If only all men were like Nam Joohyuk. The world would be a much more peaceful place.

“Sooo, hey.”

“Yeah?”

“You know how Princess Peach is always getting her ass kidnapped?”

You laugh at the odd question. “I do recall the kidnapping of the Princess Peach ass, yes.”

“Well, it just hit me. Why doesn’t the bitch ever fight back? I mean,” Jin places a hand on his hip thoughtfully, “how is it that she manages to get kidnapped by the same dude every single time? She’s a princess. Shouldn’t she have high level security?”

“Huh. I never really thought about that.”

“How could you not! She has marshmallows for bodyguards. It’s outrageous.”

“Does it really matter?” you ask.

He sounds genuinely offended. “Of course it does. You ever see Daisy getting kidnapped?”

“Well, no but—“

“Besides, isn’t it a little ridiculous how there’s this expectation that Mario has to save her? I mean, he’s not even a prince or a knight, he’s a plumber! An italian plumber! The amount of disrespect is just astronomical considering the lengths he goes to—”

“Seokjin why are we talking about this?” You ask, baffled. You take a look at your workstation and head to the stockroom to get more large size cups. Jin trails behind you, obviously upset with your lack of interest in the conversation.

 “It’s a legitimate concern, Y/N. Someone needs to pay attention to these details and it is the duty of I, the consumer, to voice the—whoa whoa whoa, since when do we have oatmeal raisin cookies?!” He screeches mid-rant, staring at a pack of cookies he holds in his hand.

You whip around to have a look, not believing your ears. “What the fuck?”

It’s true. The box of oatmeal raisin cookies sits atop the third shelf, right next to the double chocolate chip cookies.

“The boss sent an email out on Sunday,” Yoongi stands at the doorway holding a box of promotional flyers. If it were possible, you swear tumbleweed would have made its way between the three of you with the silence that follows as you and Jin stare at each other blankly.

“Which,” Yoongi drawls out, “I guess neither of you read.” he states dryly, walking away.

“Who the hell likes oatmeal raisin?” Jin asks defensively. Personally, you couldn’t agree more. Oatmeal cookies on their own were tolerable—it was the raisin part that completely ruined the entire cookie.

“They’re Satan’s spawn,” he scowls, tossing the aforementioned cookie back in the box as if it had personally insulted him. You chuckle and shake your head, walking back to your station with the box of plastic cups.

You start stocking them back up on the counter, making sure it looks neat. 

“Hey Jin,” Yoongi calls out from the front of the store, “can you grab that window marker and write out the menu again? The rain washed some of it off.” He says, examining the missing bits of letters, nose scrunched in annoyance.

You could practically hear the way the older boy starts seething at Yoongi’s lack of use in honorifics. The tips of his ears flare a bright red, his eyes wide in disbelief.

“I’M SORRY, COME AGAIN?! I couldn’t hear you over the DISRESPECT.”

Seokjin takes great pride in being the oldest of the crew. He enjoys taking care of the others as if they were of his own blood, you included. He has a somewhat sarcastic sense of humor—but never overbearingly so—always exaggerating his facial expressions and reactions, which you personally find charming. Seokjin is also infamous for his constant dad jokes, the younger ones usually cringing at their cheesiness and have you bending over in laughter. (The other boys beg you to stop egging him on as it only fuels his desire to keep them going.) That being said, Jin is not someone who gets easily irritated. When it comes to certain things, he is just, well, a bit of a drama queen.

You stifle a laugh, watching as Yoongi pinches the bridge of his nose, a heavy sigh leaving his mouth, very obviously regretting his choice of words. “Hyung, will you please go rewrite the menu outside?”

“Thank you! Can’t you just do that from the get go? I swear you kids are so ungrateful sometimes. I mean, you all seem to forget how I practically raised you brats—”

“Hyung, please get your ass outside or so help me I will go into that break room right now, clock out, take the longest nap of my damn life and just leave you two out here to die.” 

“Alright, alright,” he says, putting his hand up, “I’m going geez. What a drama queen.” He huffs his way to the entrance, shaking his head, marker in hand. “And you guys say I’m the dramatic one.” He scoffs, shaking his head.

Yoongi stands there looking up at the ceiling with his hands on both hips as if silently asking the heavens for a tiny shred of patience.

You snicker behind your hand. You swear hearing those two bicker is your daily source of serotonin. 

It’s 3 more hours into your shift when Hamin shows up at the front counter with his signature soft boy smile.

He first visited the cafe during the summer one day back when you had just been hired. The intense summer heat wave had him coming in search of some shelter from the sun and a drink to cool off. The Grind was promoting the seasonal summer drinks and naturally, as a new hire, you tried your best to advertise it. It was only your second day on the job and in your nervous state you sold him a drink that, to just your luck, wasn’t available that day. You apologized profusely afraid that he would turn out to be a Karen, but Hamin had been very sweet about it. He befriended you after that, making frequent visits to the Grind, declaring that he had found a hidden gem.

After talking to him some more you learned that Hamin had studied psychology for two years at a local college before he decided to drop out and pursue his musical career. Of course he didn’t tell you that last part up until a couple of weeks ago, so you had been under the impression that the reason he spent so many hours at the coffee shop was to study for his exams. You weren’t the type of person to pry into someone’s personal life unless they decided to tell you themselves so you never asked. Ever since Hongwon confessed to you that both he and Hamin were working towards becoming musicians, Hamin began to share more about himself to you. He figured that now that the cat was out of the bag, he could be more open with you. Prior to that day, you knew very little about Hamin’s personal life.

“Hey you! You’re back,” you beam. 

“Yeah, gotta grind,” he pats his bag for emphasis. “Ha! Grind...” he snorts suddenly. “Get it? Cause we’re at...” he gestures to the shop and laughs to himself. He looks goofy standing there in his bright lavender tie dye hoodie, a big contrast to the muted colors of the walls. His tall lean form stands out like a sore thumb. An Adidas baseball cap adorns his head but it’s so washed out you can’t even tell what color it is—or is supposed to be. 

You laugh, shaking your head.

“Oh come on, it was funny,” he says, leaning on the counter.

“It was funny the first couple times Jin said it when I just started working here,” You correct.

“You still laughed though,” he winks at you, making you laugh again. “Anyway,” he straightens up, “Can I get the usual, please?”

You grab a cup and start writing his name. “Just you this time?” 

“Nah, my idiot friend is coming but he’s gonna run late so I’ll just order ahead of him.” He sighs, reaching into his pocket in search of his wallet. “How much is it?” He asks, fumbling through a bunch of receipts and cards.

You wave him off. “On the house.”

“No way, I can—”

“Hamin, dude, relax. You do this every time. I keep telling you, discount: friend. Total: zero.” 

“You gotta let me pay every now and then. I don’t want your coworkers to think I keep coming here to leech off you…”

“Look, if you were really taking advantage of me, you wouldn’t keep disappearing on me for weeks at a time. Consider it an advance payment for when you finally let me hear a song of yours. ”

“Sorry…” He smiles sheepishly, “It’s a deal then. Thanks Y/N, you’re the best,” he grins. You flip your hair dramatically, playing along.

You make his drink and note that work is slow enough, so you head over to his table instead of calling him over.

You place his drink on the table, “so what’re you working on today?” He looks up and thanks you, taking a sip before he answers.

“A solo project. I don’t have anything now that’s worth listening to though…” He says dejectedly. Admittedly, he’s been going though somewhat of a writer's block. 

“That’s okay! I didn’t mean to pressure you. Whenever you’re ready, I’ll be glad to give it a listen if you’re still willing to let me. Good music also takes time, right?” You smile encouragingly.

Someone yells out your name before he’s able to respond. You turn at the sound, “Oh hey!” you exclaim when you see your roommate. You turn back to wish Hamin luck on his writing.

“Thanks for the lunch, Hyeri,” you pat your stuffed tummy in satisfaction. “I forgot to prep mine last night so I was honestly just gonna wait until I got home to eat,” you confess meekly.

She showed up during your shift planning to ask you what kind of food you were in the mood for so she could bring it to you, but Yoongi caught on and sent you on your lunch break so the two of you could eat together instead. Min Yoongi was a godsend. 

“I knew it! Y/N, you have to eat your meals! Do you know how detrimental it is to your health if you’re constantly working and skipping your meals?!” you cower as she scolds you. 

“I know…sorry. I just forgot...” you squeak.

“Ugh. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to raise my voice, I just worry about you,” she sighs, taking her seat again.

“And I’m so thankful!” you say quickly placing your hand on hers, “I’m sorry you’re always having to take care of me. I’ll work harder so that I don’t become a burden to you. I promise. I haven’t been myself these days but...just give me some time.”

She grabs your hand with both of hers, “Hey. You’re never a burden to me, Y/N. You’re like a sister to me. And I would never put your emotions against you. You need time to heal and that’s okay. Take it at your pace. I will always look after you, no matter what. Okay?”

Your heart warms at her words. You were so grateful to have her for a best friend. You engulf her in a hug and look at the time. 

“I should head back. My break is just about over. Thank you for everything, Hyeri. Are you staying? I’ll make you a drink. On the house. You can study there?” you ask.

“Well, I was planning on going to my school’s library, but I guess I could use a drink…” She paused for a moment. “Is Jungkook working today?” She asks, hopeful. 

Her crush on your coworker was so amusing. “Unfortunately for you, not today, sorry.” She pouts cutely.

“I’ll make you a green matcha latte?”

“Pretty please.”

You giggle, “Okay, let’s head back then.” 

It was a good thing the two of you decided to eat at the chinese restaurant across the shop, so the walk isn’t long. You came here so often that the kind elderly woman who owned the restaurant had memorized your order. You couldn’t help it that their sweet and sour chicken was bomb as hell. What you would give for that recipe.

You’re internally groaning at the thought of having to go back into work when Hyeri stops in front of the entrance and lets out a low whistle. 

“Whoa, hey. Which one of your coworkers drives a damn motorcycle?!” She points to a sleek, graphite motorcycle parked on the curb, two cars away from yours. 

“Whoa. Uhh...no one, not that I’m aware of. Jin drives a Honda Civic and Yoongi ubers cause of car issues.” You shrug, opening the door. “Must be a customer’s.”

“Well, I don’t know if it’s just me, but that thing is screaming big dick energy.” She says, following behind you. You laugh and smack her shoulder. 

“You say that but what if it’s some old bald dude that listens to metal?” You ask, leading her to a table farther in the back so she can study peacefully. 

“Well err...hopefully not. I’m just saying whoever rides that thing, I wouldn’t mind riding too. Hell, I could ride all night…” she trails off. You bury your embarrassed face in your hands and try to hold in your laughter so you don’t disturb the customers. 

“Oh my god. Stop talking. You’re gonna get me in trouble.” You point at a chair, “Sit here and I’ll bring your drink. Behave,” you warn playfully.

“Yes ma'am,” She winks and points shooter fingers at you. You laugh with a roll of your eyes, heading back to clock in. 

“You seem...distracted.” Hamin says, amusement lacing his words.

“Huh?” Hongwon turns at the accusation with wide eyes.

He sighs. “I mean,” he says crossing his arms, “ever since you got here 15 minutes ago, it’s like you keep looking around for...something.”

“So, you’re saying for the past 15 minutes you’ve been watching me like a creep?” He turns his attention back to the music software in front of him. “I told you I don’t swing that way.” he says, clicking random notes on the half-finished project.

Hamin snorts. “Don’t change the subject. What‘s got you so distracted dude?” He asks, slurping up the remains of his drink through his straw.

“The only distraction here is the eggplant sitting in front of me...” He trails off when you enter the coffee shop with your friend in tow. You’re laughing, giving her a smack on the shoulder playfully at a joke she tells you.

Hamin stops his obnoxious slurping when he follows his friend’s gaze. “Ohhhhh!” he grins.

“What?” He snaps. “No ohhhh. Whatever you’re thinking, stop it right now.”

“I’m not thinking anything.” Hamin brings his hands up defensively. “Brain empty. No thoughts.” He taps the side of his head with his index finger. “Buuuttt if you were so interested you could’ve just asked, you know.”

“And what would I have asked exactly?” He asks with a tinge of annoyance.

Hamin tsks under his breath, exasperated. “Oh come on. I mean Y/N. You wanted to know if she was working. Am I right or am I right?”

“Why the hell would I wanna know that? I don’t even know her. ”

“Hongwon!” He’s caught off guard at the sound of your voice. He internally slams his own head against the table and forces a smile when you approach the table, avoiding Hamin’s gaze.

“Y/N, hey…”

“Hold on, you know each other already?” Hamin asks obnoxiously, “I only briefly mentioned you to him, but you already know his name!” Hongwon shoots daggers at the side of his head.

“Actually,” Hongwon says through gritted teeth, “we talked for a bit when I was on my way out the other day. It would have been rude of me to not introduce myself since she’s your friend.”

“He was even kind enough to walk with me on the way home even though it was raining. Thanks for that by the way, you really didn’t have to do that.”  Hamin’s eyebrows shoot up in surprise. Shit. The smile you give him is so sincere that he almost misses what you say completely.

“Really!” Hamin grins, clearly enjoying the situation. He pats his shorter friend’s head in mock endearment. “That’s so sweet of him! I mean, considering he lives in a completely opposite di—” Hongwon sends a swift kick to his shin underneath the table.

“Fuck!” Hamin rubs the spot and laughs through the gritted teeth. “I mean...that’s sweet of him considering he’s normally so shy.” He growls at Hongwon and plasters a smile when he looks back at you. You probably think they’re both lunatics.

“Right…” You laugh, unsure of what’s happening. “By the way, did you want a drink? I’ll make it for you.” You tell Hongwon.

“Oh, uh yeah I was just gonna get an americano. Let me just—” He starts to stand up and take out some cash when you stop him.

“Are you sure that’s okay?” He asks. “I don’t want to get you in trouble…”

“Don’t worry, I get free drinks and pastries since I work here.” You say.

“And she shares them with me because I’m her favorite customer. Right, Y/N?” Hamin wiggles his eyebrows at you. You laugh and pick up his empty cup.

“Is he always this much of a moron when he comes here?” Hongwon asks, scrunching his face in distaste. You laugh and ask them to wait while you bring them coffee. 

Hamin waits until you’re completely out of ear shot before he begins his interrogation. 

“You know, for a pair of strangers, you two seem very well acquainted.” He states, eyes narrowed.

Hongwon scoffs. “You know, I don’t know if anyone’s ever told you this but somehow you have a really punchable face.”

“I don’t know if anyone’s ever told you this, but you’re a terrible liar.”

“Oh shut up. I didn’t lie. I didn’t tell you because I didn’t think I needed to.”

“‘I don’t even know her,’” Hamin mimics.

“I don’t know her. I know her name, that’s it. Not the same thing.”

“So you like her.”

He laughs. “What are you, five? How could I like her? I just met her, idiot.”

“You walked her home.” He says pointedly.

“Part way. I only did it because it was getting late and she’s your friend.”

“Ha! Since when do you care about my friends?”

“She’s a girl, it’s different. If something happened to her because I looked the other way, it’d be on my conscience.”

“You live in completely opposite directions.”

“So what?”

“You wouldn’t even do that for me.” Hamin deadpans.

“Yeah but you’re not a cute girl.” He shrugs, crossing his arms.

“So you think she’s cute!” He slams both hands onto the table, leaning forward to peer into Hongwon’s face accusingly. 

“So what? She is cute.” He shoves him away, “that doesn’t mean I like her.”

“Hmm. Okay.” Hamin smirks and leans back in his seat.

“What?” He snaps.

“Nothing,” He says with a look on his face that screams everything but nothing.

Hongwon drags his hands over his face. “You really piss me off, you know that?”

“You may have mentioned that before,” he replies, appearing unbothered.

He’s lucky you decide to come back at that moment. He swears he’d have slapped the smile off his face had he been left alone with Hamin for a minute longer.

You set down the coffee and start to walk back to the counter. “Well, I shouldn’t bother you guys too much so I’ll leave you to it.”

“Wait, Y/N!” Hamin shifts in his seat to face you. “Are you busy Friday?” This puts Hongwon on alert.

 “Hmmm...no, I don’t think I have anything going on actually. Why what’s up?”

“You’ve been wanting to hear some of our music for a while now, right? Well,” he loops an arm around Hongwon’s shoulder, “guess who has a gig that night?”

“No way!” You squeal, covering your mouth with both hands. “Wait, but I thought you didn’t have any music that’s finished.” You frown.

“Well, it’s not that we don’t, I just kinda wanted you to hear our new stuff first. But now that I think about it, this is as good a time as any. If you’re interested, a friend of ours is hosting a party and he asked a couple of artists to play for him. It’s at the Henz Club.” 

“You mean that scary looking club in Mapo-gu?”

“Scary? I mean sure, some odd looking people hang around there, but they’re all pretty chill for the most part. Right Hongwon?” 

Hongwon slaps his arm away. “Right. Well, you’re welcome to come but you don’t have to if you’re uncomfortable.” He supplies. “We’d understand if—oof!”

“Nonsense!” Hamin butts in, shoving his elbow into Hongwon’s side. “You can bring your friend over there if you want, so you don’t have to worry about being alone.” He motions his head in the direction of Hyeri who—not so discreetly—pretends like she hasn’t been trying to make out what the three of you have been talking about for the past 10 minutes.

“Ah, but either way we won’t ditch you after the performance, I promise. How about it?”

Hongwon is still recovering from having the wind knocked out of his lungs and before he knows it, somehow you’re agreeing and Hamin is giving you the details. 

“I’m so excited, I can’t wait to hear you guys.” You say cheerfully. 

“You should see this guy on stage,” Hamin gestures to Hongwon, “he really puts on a show. Like a true rockstar.”

 “You know, you saying that doesn’t make me feel good,” Hongwon says with a frown, sitting back in his chair defeatedly. 

 “Oh and don’t be surprised if you hear a lot of screaming.” He ignores him, “There’s always a lot of fangirls, especially for Hongwon. They literally come in swarms, it's crazy.”

“Oh my god. Stop. You’re so embarrassing.” He groans, looking away.

“Wow, you’re really hyping him up,” you laugh.

“Ignore him. He’s just saying whatever the hell he wants.” 

“No way, it’s really the truth.” He insists, folding his arms across his chest.

“Y/N! We need you in the back!” Yoongi calls out, his head poking out from the staff only door. 

“I gotta go. I guess I’ll see you guys on Friday!” You say, waving. “Coming!” You call out, following after your coworker.

Hamin smiles stupidly as you leave. “Isn’t she sweet!”

Hamin and Hongwon hang around at the café for a few more hours until they decide to grab a bite to eat. For the remainder of the time they spent working on their music, Hongwon had not uttered a single word. The most Hamin had gotten out of him was a “sure” when he suggested they get burgers before heading home.

He exits his car, watching as Hongwon removes his helmet to fix the mess it makes of his hair. 

Sighing deeply, Hamin leans against the side of his car, hitting the park button on his remote. “Come on, don’t be so cold. How long are you gonna give me the silent treatment for?” 

He slips his hands into the pockets of his jeans, dreading to ask but needing to know. “Are you really that pissed off because I invited her?”

Hongwon slips the hollow side of his helmet onto the handlebar and mimics Hamin, leaning against his motorcycle. “Depends,” he says, taking out a pack of cigarettes from his back pocket to light one up, “why’d you invite her?”

Hamin considers his answer carefully, shifting his weight onto the other leg. It’s obvious that Hongwon is already upset, so anything he says will probably get him angry anyway. “I was hoping maybe you guys could hit off,” he says at last, deciding to be honest.

In truth, Hongwon isn’t surprised to hear this—he actually suspected it—but it still pisses him off nonetheless. It wasn’t the first time Hamin tried setting him up with someone. He wasn’t looking for a relationship. This was something he had told him countless times and yet, he continues to pull stunts like this.

“I know you said you aren’t looking for a relationship,” Hamin continues when he proceeds to bring the cigarette to his lips without a reply, “but I just think you could at least talk to her and—“

“And then what? We fall in love, get married and ride off into the sunset?” He cuts him off abruptly.

“No, I just—“ he starts to say but stops when he can’t think of how to word it correctly.

“I know what you’re thinking. You’re thinking Y/N went through a bad breakup, and so did I. You think maybe the two of us can find the comfort we couldn’t find with our previous relationships, in each other.” He pauses to take a drag of his cigarette. 

“I’m sorry to burst your bubble, but that's a load of shit. This idea you have that love can just make me forget about all my trauma, is a load of shit.” Hamin flinches at the sudden aggression in his tone. This really didn’t come across the way he intended it to.

“Guess what, I’m fucked up Hamin!” He continues, raking a frustrated hand through his hair. “I have too many damn issues and I don’t need some chick to try to figure me out or fix me. I told you already, I’m happy with the way things are. I’m not gonna play into your stupid games just because you want to play fuckin’ cupid.” Hongwon scowls, taking another drag of his cigarette.

Hamin keeps his gaze on the ground, frustrated with how easily and accurately Hongwon is able to guess what he’s thinking. He didn’t realize how terrible it all sounded out loud. He racks his brain for something—anything—to say and argue that those aren’t his intentions, but Hongwon is speaking again before he’s able to do so successfully. 

“I don’t care if you invite her. Just don’t go expecting anything out of me.”

He nods his head weakly. “I didn’t mean for it to sound like that, bro…” He says scratching his neck, “I’m not trying to find someone to fix you...” he trails off.

“It’s cool.” He sniffles, the cold air getting to him. “Sorry. Didn’t mean to snap like that.”

Hamin is taken aback for a second, not expecting him to apologize. He kicks the floor with his sneaker, “S’cool.”

“You still hungry?” Hamin asks, afraid that their little spat would create unnecessary tension between them.

Hongwon tosses his cigarette onto the floor to put it out with his sneaker. “Fuckin’ starving.”

You went home together with Hyeri later that afternoon once your shift was over. It was always nice to go home when the sun was setting and the air felt cooler. You loved how quiet the city got, allowing you to simply be one with your thoughts. 

Unfortunately for you, today was not one of those days.

You release a sigh as you continue to pretend to not notice Hyeri’s constant fidgeting. “Hyeri, if you want to know so badly just ask already.”

She releases a giant breath as if she had been holding it this entire time. “Oh thank goodness because I felt like I was actually going to die if you didn’t say something soon,” she says grabbing your arm excitedly, like a puppy who was just called over by its owner. 

“What were you doing with those two hotties I’ve never seen before?” You couldn’t tell what made her more excited―the fact that she found them so attractive or the fact that you were talking to men other than your coworkers. “Is one of them single?” she stops walking and gasps, “Are they both single?!”

An older lady walking her Chihuahua gives you a scornful look as she passes the two of you and you bring your finger to your lips to shush Hyeri. “Sorry,” she says with a giggle, “but this is huge!”

You pull her along with you to cross the short crosswalk and to the steps of your apartment complex, “It’s not a big deal. Besides, you’ve seen Hamin before.” You say, slipping your house key into the lock and opening the door.

“Okay but, this time there was another guy too. And you guys talked for like 20 minutes! On your shift!” She says, removing her shoes quickly to stand in front of you excitedly. You stop untying your shoelaces to give her a look.

“He’s a friend I made through Hamin. Who is also just my friend,” You tell her slowly as if you were explaining it to a child but you can tell by her smile that she’s not listening. You sigh and slip your work shoes off, putting them in the hallway closet. Hyeri hovers behind you, not wanting to be too pushy but also too worked up to leave you alone.

You stand up straight and turn around. “Okay fine. Hamin invited me to this party,” this already has Hyeri clasping her hands over mouth, “he and his friend are playing a gig for a friend—”

She’s squealing and jumping around before you can finish your sentence. “And they want you there as their plus one! Oh my—”

“But I think Hamin knows about the breakup and he feels bad and that’s why he invited me,” you say quickly. Hyeri stops mid spin to give you an incredulous look. “I mean, they kind of saw the whole thing since it happened at work,” you say glumly.

Hyeri wraps her arms around you when she sees how you deflate at the reminder. “Hey, don’t make such a sad face. You guys have been friends for a while now, right? I haven’t met the guy but I’m sure he invited you because he wants you there and not because he pities you.”

“Sorry. I think I’ve been trying too hard not to think about it so all the negative thoughts are really hitting me now,” you say, resting your head on her shoulder. She always had such a comforting mom warmth to her.

She releases you and gives you a comforting smile. “Do you want to go?”

“Well,” you sit on your bed exhausted, “I actually didn’t know Hamin played music until recently. I’ve really been wanting to hear some of his stuff and apparently his friend does music too..”

“Girl, there’s your answer! Who says you have to spend your days sad and alone after a breakup? If you want to go, go.” She encourages you. She had a point. Although somewhere in the back of your mind, you felt guilty. When Hamin invited you, you were super stoked and set on going but now that you were really thinking about it, you couldn’t help but think of Jaewon.

“I can tell you’re overthinking this,” Hyeri says. “Don’t. You’re a free woman! Free from a man who took advantage of you and didn’t know how to treasure you. Do whatever the fuck you want because it’s no one’s business. It’s not like you’re planning to go sleep around.” She crosses her arms across her chest, “and even if you are guess what, it’s still no one’s business.” She says vehemently.

You pick at your nails and bite your lip. “Okay.”

“Okay?!”

“Yeah, I’ll go.”

She squeals again and launches herself onto you. You land with an oof on your bed, her head barely missing yours by an arm hair. “Oh, one more thing though,” you manage to say from beneath her. “They kind of invited you too.”

Hyeri lifts herself up at this. She stares at you with wide eyes, “what do you mean?”

“I guess they saw us talking together and figured we were friends. Also, they caught you trying to eavesdrop on our conversation.” You tell her.

“Nooooooooooo,” she cries and runs to throw herself onto her bed face flat.

“It was the hiding behind an upside down textbook for me,” you snicker.

“Y/N, please I’m in the middle of dying of embarrassment.”

[e-mangos]

Goblin: Episodes 13-16 (Final Thoughts)

I cried so much, my eyes and lips are dry and I’m cradling a thermos of water now as I write this. Having heard about the postponement of episode 14 for this week in exchange for a “special” episode, I decided to wait and binge watch 13-16 all at once, which turned out to be both blessing and bane. I gotta tell ya, when it rains on “Goblin”, it bloody hell pours.

I don’t know, guys. I may be reaching, but me thinks the universe has it in for Kim Shin/Goblin.

Loses his family and mortality for disobeying a foolish boy-king’s jealous commands.

Gets sword shoved through his chest cavity. Rots in pretty field for decades. Alone.

Wakes up as the Goblin and is tasked with being a guardian spirit. Spends 900+ years wandering the earth. Alone.

Finally finds his bride only to lose her--ironically in a bid to keep her alive. Instead of dying, a creature of fire gets banished to a spiritual Siberia where chapstick doesn’t exist while said bride goes on her miserable way with no memory of their love. Spends nine years alone.

Finds his way back via a (strange) loophole, reunites with bride and then loses her again when she sacrifices herself. Not only that, best friend and sister pass away. Spends several more decades alone.

Numbers one and two I can understand. It’s three and four that get my knickers in a right knot. While I can understand why Goblin had to go away after removing the sword--consequences are consequences after all--I just can’t wrap my noggin around why he had to suffer during that time. I mean the man is a hero, both as Kim Shin and as Goblin. He sacrificed himself to rid the world of evil and what does he get in return? Nine years in a barren wasteland between life and death.

Why? Hasn’t he had enough? What exactly did he do to warrant such cruel punishment disguised as “mercy”? This is the core of my dissatisfaction with this ending. I’ve nothing against loneliness in fiction. When it feels like a contrivance, however, it loses all meaning. It becomes another cheap sleight of hand to wring a couple more tissues worth of tears from viewers. What makes it hurt more is how much Goblin didn’t deserve it. I can get behind him having to go away for 9 years--hell, I loved it because it evened out the playing field between him and his bride--but if he was going to come back anyway, couldn’t he have spent the time in a spiritual Bali? Even he was going to be alone, couldn’t he have been stranded on a beach or in the field of flowers where he first passed? Why is he always left waiting for so long?

A part of me wants to think it’s because if he had gone somewhere comfortable, perhaps he wouldn’t have wanted to come back; he wouldn’t have fought his way back to Eun Tak. Eun Tak’s future was obviously set in stone, so what if Goblin’s return was a given and they all just had to wait the “divine” nine years until she turned 29? Although Goblin wouldn’t have known he was destined to return, the Almighty would’ve, so why not send Goblin somewhere more chill?Why did this poor man have to cross country through a blizzard with only a piece of paper for company? Adding insult to injury, Eun Tak kicks the bucket barely a minute after enjoying wedded bliss. Whut? Admittedly, her death initially excited me. I assumed her dying would somehow “rewrite” the issue of her pesky mortality and his lack of; you would think such a noble and brave sacrifice would warrant her becoming an angel or a fairy or a sprite--bloody something!--with a bit more longevity. Nope. In the end, we get the return of barely legal!Eun Tak. Is she just going to keep reincarnating until she uses up all four of her lives? Oh boy.

That being said, the finale was still an emotional tour de force. Never has a time skip been more satisfying. Eun Tak’s age was always a sore spot for me, so I appreciated the drama giving her time to mature and “catch up” (though how much you catch up to a millennium old supernatural creature prone to fits of childishness is debatable lol) to Goblin. It evened out the playing field having a self-realized and self-confident Eun Tak rebuff Goblin’s clumsy advances; a perfect mirror of their first meetings where she relentlessly pursued her new hubby and Goblin played it too-cool-for-school because 900+ years alone can make a guy rather bitter. It was particularly fulfilling watching her fall back in love with a man she has every right to be wary of because even though her mind forgot him, her heart was--in some ways--beating for his return. Of course her being older also made their spicier engagements more entertaining. Say what you will, but those 900 years did wonders for Kim Shin’s ability to sweep a girl off her feet. My goodness, Gong Yoo can get it. *Eagerly awaits all of the kissing montages sure to flood Youtube in 3...2....1...*

Sun Reaper. Where do I start with you two? Theirs is a story of regrets, almost’s and could’ve beens/should’ve beens. That age-old cliche of two lovers constantly missing each other isn’t a new one but it still feels like Kim Eun Sook managed to put a fresh coating on it in that both remained cognizant of the lost chances. They willingly chose to continue walking past each other--and with good reason. There was too much baggage between both Sunny/Grim Reaper and Kim Sun/Wang Yeo. Plus’ there’s something pure (and painful) about knowing you can be with someone, but choosing not to for both of your sakes. Again, that idea of love trumping life, death and everything in between rings strong and true between Grim Reaper and his Sun Queen. Seeing them finally get their “happy ending” made all of Lee Dong Wook’s tears truly worth it.

While it suffered from a rambling middle and a rather rushed closing that screamed of Kim Eun Sook’s signature cheesiness (hur hur), “Goblin” delivered. The mythos alone is enough to fuel spin-offs and sequels (yes please!). This, coupled with one of the best OST since 2005′s “Soulmate” and you’ve got a drama that packs an emotional, visual and auditory punch; a real treat for all the senses. It’s truly rare for me to enjoy the entire cast, but hats off to you Kim Eun Sook; from Deok Hwa to teenage Wang Yeo, the actors made each and every character lovable, relatable and most importantly, real. You could feel every beat of their emotions; all the highs and the lows were played out with such depth and rawness that you couldn’t help but cry and laugh and rejoice with them. Writing for an ensemble cast can be challenging, but Kim Eun Sook is quickly shaping dual couple storylines into an art form.

Because the episode was great..because it wasn’t...because it was decent, but all my days watching “Goblin” were the happiest....