#server-side scripting

[cognithtechnology]

Server-Side Scripting Explained: Simplifying Web Development

Explore how server-side scripting works, from processing user requests to delivering customized content. Learn the benefits for both developers and users.

[sleepyblr-heart]

i love palyin with my touys (lua)

[pixiel]

Old Tumblr Dashboard (Userstyle)!!

I created a Userstyle for the Chrome/Firefox Stylus Extension that reverts the new dashboard to the old look!

You need to have Stylus installed. So if you don't have it:

Install the Stylus Firefox Addon or the Manifest V2 Chrome Extension (You can install Chrome Extensions on Edge as well)

Once it's installed into Firefox/Chrome/Edge you can proceed with adding this style or any other.

To add the style (Stylus), follow the instructions:

Go to this link: https://userstyles.world/style/11286/old-tumblr-dashboard-userstyle (If it says 'style not found' then the Userstyle.world server is just down, try again in an hour)

Click on "install".

Style will open a tag with it and in the left side you'll have a button that says "install style", click there. (Step-by-step copied from the lovely dorothyoz39 who wrote this in a reply!) If you don't want the sticky header you can remove the labelled script at the top of the css below /* Sticky Header*/

For Manifest V3 only Chrome Or Stylus incompatible browsers:

For Chrome Manifest V3 install the Tampermonkey Extension

Then add the Tampermonkey Backup Script instead of the Stylus version

https://greasyfork.org/en/scripts/492279-old-tumblr-dasboard-backup I highly recommend you switch to Firefox for continued use of good extensions! Stylus does not have a V3 update yet; however, the tamermonkey script works just as good.

Be sure to check for updates regularly and if you'd like, consider supporting me on Ko-Fi https://ko-fi.com/pixiel !

I'm currently taking donations so I can afford a much-needed wheelchair, so please check out my GoFundMe for more details! Any Ko-Fi donations will be added manually to the GoFundMe

..::::HOW TO UPDATE::::..

click the Manage button on Stylus and click the check for update button next to the userstyle, then click again to install!

Make sure to check the Userstyle and see if the version number matches the one below if you don't see any changes!

NEW UPDATE: 26/04/25 (D/M/Y) 23:28PM BST v17.12

16.16: Fixed activity and notifications, they now look like the previous version 17.0: Final update to the new icons bs! Every page should be functional. If theres any missed parts or bugs - let me know! 17.9: Minor fixes and Tampermonkey update! You can also fix the positioning of the Communities button and subnav from this menu as well - it should remember your settings when you update!

Tumblr Post Width & More (OTD+ Userstyle) Is now available!!

OTD+ is an add on for Old Tumblr dashboard that you can use to edit the Post Width, Content Positioning & More - It must be used with Old Tumblr Dashboard installed as well on the latest update! This style might be merged with OTD in the future.

THE CREATOR OF THIS USERSTYLE SUPPORTS THEIR TRANS SISTERS. WE'RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER!

Check the readmore for the changelog, custom code & known issues!

----- Known issues:

Only two columns in Masonry view. Semi-Unfixable, Tumblr creates columns based on monitor size, if I try adding another column (because it doesn't exist) it just perpetually loads on screen. Semi-fix: Zoom out in chrome/firefox and it adds more columns, you may need to change the font size of the page though

Search bar doesn't appear on some pages (like viewing a post), this is because Tumblr removed the search bar on those pages completely. Unfixable but not a big deal

Tumblr has ONCE AGAIN CHANGED THE ACCOUNTS MENU. The menus are now shorter and have less information on them. This is unfortunately permanent. I do not see any way to fix this. Unfixable.

If you want people's icons to stay fixed in place, instead of scrolling with the dashboard change this in Stylus;

Or if you're using the tampermonkey version

Find text:

.NLCTe > div.Evcyl > div > div > .So6RQ.YSitt > .ge_yK > .c79Av > article > header > .RYkKH > .nZ9l5 { pointer-events: auto; top: 55px; transition: top .25s; position: -webkit-sticky; position: sticky; } and replace it with;

.NLCTe > div.Evcyl > div > div > .So6RQ.YSitt > .ge_yK > .c79Av > article > header > .RYkKH > .nZ9l5 { pointer-events: auto; top: 0px; transition: top .25s; position: absolute; }

Solved issues: (Update)

Menus need to be manually closed SOLVED! in V.4 and updated in V.5! The menu & icon WILL scroll with you if you have removed the sticky header CSS, however, clicking anywhere on screen will make the Menu disappear still.

Masonry view in searches is now fixed!

Resized Messenger Chat Box!

NEW UPDATE 16/08/23, 23:55 BST v6.5: Figured out how to reorganise the icons in the header. Let me know if you have any problems with it and make sure to update your Userstyle! Some icons are hidden with Display: Block; you can hide more icons with this method!

Solved issues p2

Brought back SOME of the icons for Tumblrs latest update - Unfortunately, this does not bring back user icons for Reblogged posts! Make sure to yell at Tumblr for removing the icons as well as the horrible dashboard update here! v7.5 Fixed icons for all posts and put them back where they came from!

v6.9.6.9 (I promise this is the last funny number): Fuck Off Buggy The Clown Update + All languages support for the old header design!

v7.0: Fixed the search bar for tumblrs new collections feature, so it looks like the original search bar!

v8.0: Fixed masonry view icons, hidden the reblog icon on dashboard icons, fixed icons in blog viewport

V8.1: Fixed issue with icons not working on soft-refresh & with endless scrolling disabled - be sure to complain to staff!

v9.3: Changed a few things with the search feature, I also made the posts less round.

UPDATE2 11/04/2024: SO We mighhtttt have overrun their servers. 😅 I'm getting a 500 Internal Server Error every time I try to fix it or upload it as a new style - the massive influx of people downloading the userstyle was probably too much. The Tampermonkey backup on Greasyfork works just fine though! Probably easier for a lot of people migrating anyway! UPDATE 11/04/2024:: My code has broken on Userstyles.world, (it is now fixed as of 12/04/24) until this is fixed I have created a Tampermonkey Backup Version of the Userstyle so feel free to use this version if you've broken yours!

https://greasyfork.org/en/scripts/492279-old-tumblr-dasboard-backup

v9.6: Moved the Following | For you | Your Tags to below the create a post panel. Fixed the Accounts Menu! + Bugfixes V10.3: Patio compatibility. Added a way to hide the Patio button & "patio feedback?" button, just search for patio in the code and follow the instructions! v11.0: Temporary Chat feature fix after Tumblr broke it, fixed some positioning issues and j/k scrolling!

v12.3: Fixed a text issue (my bad!), I undid the changes to the replies function and added a way to fix icons order for when you get the communities update!

v12.5: Update to make compatible with the Content Positioning using Tumblr Post Width & More (OTD+ Userstyle) v12.6: Post buttons fixed, icons unable to be fixed yet as I haven't got the tumblr changes just yet - but I will fix them asap!

v11.7: Communities Update, changed the new search bar on communities page to resemble the old one. The search bar still doesn't work on these pages yet for some reason. Blog view icons fixed. v13.0: The icons change should now have a working patchfix! BIG THANK YOU to arcadian-asgardian for sending me the screenshots I needed and testing if it worked. + Minor tweak, communities button resized to fit the rest of the icons better v13.2: Mini fixes now that I have better access to the new changes! Communities icon re-centered, usernames nudged back into place.

V13.5 & v13.7: Nuked the Go Premium button - Re-positioned the search bar on search pages v13.10: Changed a lot of the new look for replies - it's not perfect yet mind. Small bug with the "..." menu moving to the left with shorter replies. Looks a lot more like the old replies section though! Made it possible to remove the reply to reply button just search for "NEW Replies UI" in the userstyle and remove the /* */ around "display: none" OR use Ublock to block the element! v14.1: Reverted the "Original Poster" border + text to look like old version. Edit: Whoops, fixed an issue with showing the timestamps

v13.4: Added a way to fix the communities icon position if you don't have the New Xkit button or have hidden any of the icons. Just remove the highlighted /* */ pair in the code for what you need.

v14.11: Made Premium Perks button available in the bottom left corner for all premium users v15.2: Fixed the Tumblr fuckup AND added a cool new feature that allows you to customise the look of your header & hide the reply-to-replies button if you like, here's how to customise this. Set to "Block" if you want the button/icon visible, Set to "None" if you want it hidden! V15.5: Given labels to options for clarity - now says 'show' or 'hide'!

v15.9: The Boopdate! V16.0: Fixed Search view pages and made them look normal, unfortunately, I can't bring back the dropdown menus for "top"/"All Time" etc - but it should look more like the original now

v16.3: Minor tweaks to make search pages look better

16.10: Fix changes to the notification icons 16.14: Fixed many issues with Tampermonkey Version - including a bug that makes the header go weird when you click on a post, fixed notification icons in small view

16.16: Fixed activity and notifications, they now look like the previous version

16.26: TEMPORARY UPDATE - only changes some aspects of the dashboard - THIS IS FULLY INCOMPLETE AND I AM WORKING ON A FULL FIX FOR THE REST OF THE SITE EDIT: added changes for timestamps!

[prokopetz]

I think the real reason most websites are janky as hell to use these days is because web developers have become so specialised that nobody really understands how anything works anymore. The other day I had to explain why hosting critical Javascript libraries on a third-party CDN is a bad idea to a "lead developer" who genuinely didn't know the difference between server-side versus client-side scripting.

[dragongirlsnout]

Dashboard Unfucker v3.3.0!

As I first discovered today from the massive surge of people reblogging my previous update posts, the shitty new layout is now universal despite widespread protest, since us existing users are now apparently backseat to a Tumblr's hypothetical endless stream of high-revenue new users who are allergic to using social media sites that don't look like every other site. Well, thankfully at least for the time being, reverting the update via userscript is still as easy as ever!

Version 3.3.0 even fixes the new server-side bug where avatars next to posts disappear, because apparently I spend more time reviewing my commits than a multimillion dollar social media platform.

Installation Guide:

A userscript extension is required to run the script. Currently, the only tested extensions are Tampermonkey and Violentmonkey, but you might have still have luck with a different extension if you already use it.

Once you have the userscript extension installed, simply click this link to open the install page. This also works for updating, but make sure the version listed near the top is up to date, since it only fetches the script from GitHub every so often.

And of course, it's all open-source! Contributions, bug reports, and general insights are all appreciated.

Common troubleshooting info under cut:

Script not working

I can't offer specific help without knowing exact details, but two common issues are caching (try clearing your browser cache) and conflicts with New XKit (the script works fine with XKit Rewritten, which I would recommend anyways). If neither of those solve it, you can open an issue on the repository with more details.

Content takes up the full width of the page

This is an XKit feature, Panorama.

[moongreenlight]

Soap (who you’ve never met before ever in your life) being your server during an anniversary dinner with your long-time boyfriend except he took one look at you by the host stand and decided he had to have you. 

Calls you “sweet thing” while he unwraps a straw and puts it in your water glass for you. 

Asks if you’re out with your brother (without making eye contact with your boyfriend) and even after you told him no, he still ‘makes the mistake’ a few other times during the meal. 

Stops over way more than is necessary. Probably has the kitchen intentionally screw up your appetizer so that when you bring it up he can make you feed him off of your fork. For quality control, of course. “Cannae have a sweet thing like you wasting the talents of a pretty mouth like that on something below par.”

Your boyfriend is pissed. Sends back his food twice and makes such a scene that the manager comes over. When he throws accusations of an “overly fucking friendly waiter,” you try to smooth the situation over by saying that everything was fine. Your boyfriend gets so riled that he throws a fistful of cash on the table and tells you it should cover his meal and your ride home. 

Soap swoops in while you’re sobbing at the table. Slides in your side of the booth carrying a scoop of vanilla ice cream topped with an obscene amount of whipped cream and a cherry. Squashes you up against the wall while he coos kind things in your ear. Like he’s reading off a script meticulously chosen to include all of the right things that make you let down your guard enough to agree to let him drive you home. 

“Wouldnae hear of you driving yourself home in this state, kitty.”

And once he finally gets you back to his, he goes in for the kill. Keeps saying the right things, keeps wrapping his arm around you and pulling you right into his side, keeps pushing his face close to yours. So much so that it almost feels like it’s your idea when you- still hiccuping and sniffling softly- lean forward and close the centimeters wide gap between you.

[yunholic-jongholic]

Hi i’m the anon that also wants you to do the jongho fluff🤭 If your requests are still open, could you do one with Jongho where he’s protective over the reader? I think i��d be interesting to see since he doesn’t really show his emotions a lot and doesn’t like physical touch (at least out in the open lol) Thanks!!

Not Just Protective | C.JH x Reader

PAIRING | Choi Jongho x Reader

RATING | Not really bad but just in case; 16+? 18+?

CONTENT WARNINGS | FLUFF, Protective Boyfriend!Jongho, Jealousy, Hint of Possessiveness, Drinking, Alcohol Consumption, Suggestive/Talking about Smut, Bar Setting, Insecurities, Anxiety (Might be missing some. I will have to come back.)

WORD COUNT | 12.4k

AUTHOR NOTE | Omggg yes!! more Jongho fluff stories :3 (I will take all recommendations hehe) I hope you enjoy! This is a bit long hehe. I want to make an ACTUAL protective boyfriend Jongho series story... Maybe one day <3

•

You were in the middle of getting ready for work, slipping into your uniform as you caught your reflection in the mirror. You sighed quietly. The truth was—you didn’t really feel like going in today.

After finishing your associate’s degree, you’d spent months applying to office jobs, hoping for something steady, something that matched your efforts. But all you got in return was radio silence.

So, for now, you were working at a high-end hotel restaurant. Most days you worked as a hostess, other days behind the bar—wherever they needed you, really.

You grabbed your bag, gave yourself one last glance in the mirror, and headed out the door. The familiar weight of your routine settled over you as you walked to your car, keys jingling quietly in your hand.

The drive to the hotel wasn’t long, but your mind wandered the entire way—thinking about everything and nothing. The same playlist played softly through the speakers, a background to the same streets you took every day.

Pulling into the employee parking lot, you took a deep breath before stepping out, smoothing down your uniform. You could already hear the faint hum of the lobby through the entrance—soft piano music, distant conversation, the clinking of glasses from the bar.

Inside, everything was polished and perfect. The floors gleamed, the lighting warm and elegant. You clocked in, slipped on your name tag, and forced the usual smile into place. Time to play your part.

“Morning,” one of the servers greeted as they passed by, already balancing a tray of champagne flutes.

“Morning,” you replied, your voice even but distant.

Another day. Another shift. Same script.

You headed straight to the back to clock in, tying your hair up into a ponytail with practiced ease. Tonight, you were assigned to the bar—one of those nights where they were short-staffed and needed extra hands. No time to dwell, just time to move.

You made your way behind the bar and slipped into your routine, already taking orders, mixing drinks, and putting on your best "I’ve got this" expression.

Then, mid-pour, your phone buzzed from inside your apron pocket.

You let it ring the first time, brushing it off—probably nothing urgent.

But then it buzzed again. And again.

You sighed and glanced around, making sure you weren’t in the middle of something, then pulled your phone out for a quick peek.

Jongho.

Your heart softened a little at the name, even if the timing made you sigh again. You wiped your hands on a towel and quickly stepped to the side, just long enough to answer.

“Hey!” you greeted with a small smile, already feeling a bit lighter just hearing his voice.

“Hey,” Jongho replied. “Have you left for work yet?”

You sighed, glancing down at the towel still in your hand. “Yeah, I’m already here. Just started my shift at the bar.”

There was a pause on his end, then the sound of game effects filtered faintly through the call. “Hmm… I might stop by. After my game, of course.”

You could practically hear the controller clicking in the background.

“Aww, do you miss me already?” you teased, grinning as you leaned against the counter for a second, stealing a quiet moment.

“I’m just bored,” he said flatly.

You rolled your eyes, the smile still lingering on your lips. “Wow. So romantic.”

He went quiet for a beat… and then you heard him chuckle under his breath.

“You know I miss you,” he finally muttered.

That made your stomach do a little flip—like it always did when he slipped up and let the soft side show.

“I miss you too,” you said quietly, the words slipping out more tenderly than you expected.

Your cheeks flushed with warmth, and you felt your heart flutter in that familiar way only Jongho could stir—like no matter how routine the day felt, just hearing his voice reminded you you weren’t alone in it.

There was a pause on the line again, not awkward, just… comfortable. You could hear him shifting a bit, maybe setting his controller down.

“I’ll see you soon,” he murmured, softer this time.

You smiled, still holding the phone close. “Can’t wait.”

Just as you ended the call, a coworker passed by with a smirk. “Ooooh, someone’s blushing.”

You rolled your eyes with a laugh, slipping your phone back into your apron pocket. “Mind your business.”

But you couldn’t help the smile that lingered on your lips as you turned back to the bar, the night suddenly feeling a little brighter with the thought of Jongho stopping by.

You slipped back into the rhythm of work—pouring drinks, wiping down the counter, checking orders. The usual. But your thoughts kept drifting to Jongho. Even just the idea of him stopping by made everything feel a bit easier.

Fifteen minutes later, he walked in, hoodie half-zipped, hands in his pockets, and that usual soft look in his eyes when he spotted you. He made his way to the bar and plopped down directly across from you.

“Apparently Wooyoung and San are coming too,” he sighed, leaning his arms on the counter like a man preparing for war.

You raised an eyebrow, already grinning. “Oh, that’ll be fun.”

He gave you a look. “Fun for you, maybe.”

You laughed, already picturing Wooyoung’s usual chaos and San’s dramatic reactions. “C’mon, they love you.”

“They love teasing me,” he muttered, reaching for the straw in your water cup like it was his now.

“Well,” you smirked, leaning on the bar and lowering your voice playfully, “I’ll protect you… as long as you tip well.”

He raised an eyebrow. “You’re literally my girlfriend.”

“Doesn’t mean you get free drinks and immunity from chaos.”

Jongho just groaned, resting his head dramatically on the bar. “I should’ve stayed home.”

You laughed again, already grabbing a clean glass and sliding it his way. “Too late. You’re here now.”

Jongho sat up again, resting his chin in his hand as he watched you move behind the bar—grabbing bottles, mixing a drink for another customer, wiping down the counter with easy rhythm. You could feel his eyes on you, and when you glanced up, he didn’t even bother looking away.

“What?” you asked, giving him a playful side-eye as you filled a glass.

“Nothing,” he said, voice soft. “Just… you’re cute when you’re focused.”

You paused for a second, surprised by how casual yet sincere it sounded. That flutter in your chest returned, spreading warmth through you in the middle of your shift like it belonged there.

“Stop it,” you mumbled, trying to hide your smile as you turned away slightly, pretending to check something under the bar.

He smirked, clearly proud of himself. “Just telling the truth.”

You leaned back over the bar, elbows resting on the surface as you looked at him. “If you keep talking like that, I’m gonna make you wash dishes.”

“Worth it,” he said without hesitation.

You rolled your eyes, but your heart was already melting.

He reached across the bar, brushing his fingers lightly against yours where your hand rested on the counter. It was quick, subtle—but enough to remind you how grounding his presence was, how even with all the noise around you, it felt like everything quieted when he was near.

Before either of you could say anything else, the front doors swung open, and you both turned your heads.

“I see you, Jongho!” came Wooyoung’s voice, way too loud for the room.

You groaned, laughing under your breath. “And so it begins.”

Jongho muttered, “There’s still time to run.”

You handed him a menu. “Too late. You’re mine now.”

He smiled, already bracing himself. “Lucky me.”

Jongho pulled his hand back with a sigh, sitting up straighter just as Wooyoung strolled in like he owned the place. He made a beeline for the bar, sliding onto the stool right beside Jongho with that signature mischievous grin already in place.

“Awwww, little bear visiting his girlfriend at work,” Wooyoung cooed loudly, nudging Jongho with his elbow. “That’s soooo cute. Look at you—soft and whipped.”

Jongho coughed, clearly trying to play it off, but you could see the tips of his ears turning red. You smirked as you grabbed a couple of glasses, already starting to make drinks for the two new guests.

“Be nice,” you warned, shaking a mixer with practiced ease. “Or I’ll mess up your drink on purpose.”

Wooyoung gasped. “You wouldn’t.”

You raised an eyebrow. “Try me.”

As you moved around behind the bar, you caught the little frown that formed on Jongho’s face. He slouched slightly, muttering just loud enough for you to hear, “Would’ve loved it if it was just us two.”

You glanced at him, your heart tugging a little at how sincere he sounded.

Setting Wooyoung’s finished drink in front of him, you leaned a little closer to Jongho and said softly, just for him, “We’ll get our moment again. Promise.”

He met your eyes and gave a small, grateful smile—one that said he believed you.

Then, right on cue, San walked in.

“Let the chaos begin,” you whispered under your breath.

San arrived moments later, arms spread dramatically as if he were entering a concert, not a classy hotel bar. “Ahhh, I made it! The night can officially begin!” he declared, sliding into the seat on your side of the bar next to Wooyoung.

“You’re just on time,” Wooyoung smirked, lifting his drink. “Jongho’s here being all soft and romantic.”

San raised a brow, glancing at Jongho, then back at you. “You must be something special if he’s skipping game time for a mid-shift visit.”

You chuckled, handing San his drink with a playful shrug. “I’m just that magical, apparently.”

San placed a hand over his heart. “I respect it.”

You noticed Jongho glance at San after his comment—not full-on glaring, but the look definitely had an edge to it. Subtle, but there. A silent watch it kind of moment.

Before things could get weird, you jumped in to shift the energy.

“So,” you said, offering a bright smile as you leaned on the counter, “what are you guys doing this weekend?”

Jongho finally relaxed at the change of topic, leaning back in his seat, his usual calm returning.

Wooyoung perked up. “Our friend Seonghwa is throwing a party tomorrow night. Real classy, probably candles everywhere and a strict 'no shoes in the house' rule.”

You laughed. “Sounds like him.”

“Anyway,” Wooyoung continued with a grin, “he wants Jongho to come, but you know how hard that is. Someone refuses to go to parties unless food, bribes, or emotional guilt is involved.”

Jongho shot him a look. “I just don’t like people.”

“Exactly,” Wooyoung said, pointing at you now. “That’s where you come in. You’re his weakness. Help us. Use your powers.”

You laughed and nodded. “Oh, I’m totally down! I’ll just swap shifts—my manager’s pretty chill. Shouldn’t be a problem.”

“Bless you,” San said, raising his glass in appreciation.

You gave Jongho a wink before turning to help a customer waving from the other end of the bar. “Be right back!”

As you walked off, Wooyoung leaned over to Jongho with a smug grin. “See? She’d trade a whole shift just to party with you. That’s love, bro.”

Jongho didn’t say anything at first, just watched you as you smiled at a guest and took their order, light on your feet, completely in your element.

“Yeah… it is.”

Jongho’s voice was quiet, like the words slipped out before he could stop them. His cheeks flushed a soft pink, and as soon as he realized it, he quickly cleared his throat and looked down at his phone, pretending to check something—anything—to shake off the feeling.

You came back a moment later, smiling like sunshine. “You guys want anything else to drink?”

Wooyoung shook his head. “I’m good for now.”

Jongho gave you a small smile. “I’ll take another water if you’re not too busy.”

“On it,” you said, already grabbing a clean glass. “By the way… what time’s the party tomorrow?”

Wooyoung pulled out his phone and tapped through his messages. “Uhh… Seonghwa said people should start arriving around 7pm. And it’ll go till, like, 2am or something. You know how he is—candles, jazz playlists, and exact timing.”

You laughed and pulled out your phone, quickly setting a reminder with a little star next to it. “Perfect. I’m gonna go ask my manager to switch my schedule now before I forget.”

You were already halfway down the bar before they could even respond—determined, focused, and just a little too excited.

Jongho watched you go, a faint smile tugging at his lips again. Wooyoung leaned over with a teasing grin.

“She’s really doing it. For you. That’s girlfriend of the year energy.”

Jongho tried to play it cool, sipping his drink. “Yeah, well… she’s kind of the best.”

Wooyoung smirked. “You’re so gone.”

“I know,” Jongho muttered, almost proud of it.

San leaned over and playfully ruffled Jongho’s hair. “Aww,” he cooed with a grin, dragging the word out in the most annoying way possible.

Wooyoung absolutely lost it, nearly falling off his stool with laughter.

Jongho shot San a glare and immediately shoved his arm away, smoothing his hair back down with dramatic offense. “Touch me again and you’re walking home.”

San just winked. “Still worth it.”

Jongho grumbled something under his breath, but the corner of his mouth twitched like he was trying not to laugh.

Just then, you returned, a triumphant smile on your face. “Manager said it’s all good! I’m off tomorrow night!”

“Let’s gooo!” Wooyoung fist-pumped in the air.

But before you could rejoin the boys, a customer three seats down waved you over. “Excuse me, could I get another drink when you get the chance?”

“Of course!” you said warmly, already moving in their direction.

You chatted with them as you poured their drink, asking how their night was going, if they were staying at the hotel, and tossing in a few light jokes here and there. It was natural for you—easy. You had a way of making people feel comfortable, seen, like they belonged there.

It didn’t go unnoticed either. The guest chuckled, smiling more with every word, clearly enjoying the conversation. And a few seats away, your little trio of chaos-makers watched it unfold.

“She’s so good at this,” San said, sipping his drink. “I’d leave a tip just for the conversation.”

Jongho leaned his chin on his hand, watching you with soft eyes as you laughed at something the guest said.

“Yeah,” he murmured, more to himself than anyone else. “That’s why everyone loves her.”

Wooyoung glanced down at him, catching that rare softness in Jongho’s voice. A slow, knowing smile spread across his face. “You’re so down bad, bro.”

Jongho didn’t respond. Instead, he looked away, shifting in his seat like he was trying to shake off the weight in his chest. He sat up straighter, eyes flicking toward you behind the bar as you finished chatting with the guest—still smiling, still lighting up the room like it was nothing.

Then, almost out of nowhere, he cleared his throat and said, “Well… once you both finish drinking, may I have some alone time with her?”

Wooyoung raised an eyebrow, clearly enjoying this new side of Jongho. “Oh? Look at you being all bold.”

San grinned around his straw, then shrugged. “Say less.”

He immediately chugged the rest of his drink like it was a challenge, wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, and stood up with a dramatic flourish. “I have no problem being a wingman. Go get your girl.”

Wooyoung, still smirking, raised his glass and finished the last sip slowly. “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.”

“That narrows it down to nothing,” Jongho shot back dryly, finally cracking a smile.

Wooyoung winked and slid off the stool, following San toward the lounge area. “You’re welcome.”

Now it was just Jongho at the bar, quietly waiting for you to make your way back over, fingers tapping lightly on the counter—trying to look casual, but his heart already beating faster.

As San and Wooyoung disappeared into the lounge, the bar grew a little quieter. The clinking of glasses and low hum of conversation continued in the background, but for a moment, it felt like the world had pulled back just enough to make space for the two of you.

You walked back over, wiping your hands on a bar towel as you noticed Jongho still sitting there, alone now, quietly waiting.

“No more teasing?” you asked with a playful tilt of your head.

He looked up at you, eyes softer than before, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “Only from you.”

You chuckled, resting your hands on the counter as you leaned in just a little. “Everything okay?”

He nodded slowly, then glanced down at the glass in front of him, turning it absently with his fingers. “Yeah. I just… kinda wanted a minute with you. Just us.”

You blinked, heart doing that quiet little flutter again. “You have me,” you said gently, voice dropping just a little.

There was a pause—one of those quiet silences that didn't feel empty, just full of things neither of you had said yet.

“I like watching you here,” Jongho admitted, finally looking up again. “The way you talk to people. The way you make everyone feel like they belong.”

You smiled, eyes softening. “It’s just part of the job.”

He shook his head. “No. It’s you. It’s just who you are.”

Your breath caught for a second, the sincerity in his voice hitting deeper than you expected. You reached over the counter, brushing your fingers gently over his hand.

“Thanks for coming tonight,” you said quietly. “It… means a lot.”

He turned his hand under yours, lacing your fingers together, his touch warm and grounding. “Yeah,” he murmured. “I think I just like being where you are.”

And in that moment—amidst the low lights, the quiet chatter, and the clink of glass—it felt like the rest of the world faded out, leaving just the two of you in that small, perfect pocket of peace.

You leaned in, forehead resting gently against his, your fingers still loosely tangled with his. For a brief, breathless moment, the two of you just looked at each other—eyes locked, everything around you fading into background noise.

“Do you want to stay over tonight?” you hummed, your voice low, a little playful, but full of something softer. Your gaze flicked to his lips, lingering just long enough to make your intentions clear.

But Jongho, ever the flustered and stubborn one, pulled back slightly and coughed—completely betraying how affected he actually was.

“Yeah… sure,” he mumbled, scratching the back of his neck. “Just… don’t tell the others I’m staying at your place tonight. They’ll never shut up about it. I’ll hear about it for a week straight.”

He looked away, clearly trying to avoid your eyes now. But you didn’t miss the pink tint rising to his cheeks.

You rolled your eyes with a teasing smile. “God forbid your friends know you actually like spending time with your girlfriend.”

He groaned quietly. “They already know. That’s the problem.”

You laughed under your breath, leaning on the bar again. “You’re lucky I think it’s cute when you act all cool and distant.”

“I am cool,” he muttered, still refusing to look at you—but the smile tugging at his lips betrayed him.

You tilted your head slightly, voice dropping just a little. “You know if we weren’t in public right now, I’d kiss you.”

Jongho’s eyes finally flicked back to yours, a flicker of something unreadable—desire, longing, shyness—crossing his face.

“I know,” he murmured, lips twitching into a small smirk. “That’s why I’m staying.”

And just like that, your heart did that stupid thing it always did around him—fluttered and clenched at the same time.

The night moved on around you—drinks ordered, conversations drifting in and out, music playing low in the background—but your moment with Jongho lingered, hanging like warmth in the air between you.

Eventually, you sighed, reluctantly straightening up. “Alright, I’ve got like twenty more minutes until I can clock out.”

Jongho nodded, sipping the last of his drink. “I’ll hang out here until you’re done.”

“Try not to fall asleep on the bar again,” you teased, walking away to tend to a few final tables.

He smirked behind his glass. “No promises.”

The rest of your shift flew by. You stayed busy, wiping down the counter, cashing out tabs, chatting with a few regulars. Every time you glanced over, Jongho was still there—quietly watching, head resting on his hand, a soft look on his face that he thought you didn’t see.

By the time you finally clocked out and tossed your apron in the back, the bar had mostly cleared. You returned to him, slipping on your jacket.

“Ready?” you asked.

“Always,” he replied, standing up and stretching slightly before falling into step beside you.

The walk to your place was quiet, but comfortable. The streets were calm, the cool air brushing softly against your skin. Jongho kept close, hands stuffed into his hoodie pockets, glancing over at you every now and then like he was making sure you were still there.

Once inside, you kicked off your shoes, dimmed the lights, and threw your keys in the little bowl by the door. Jongho followed behind, slower, quieter, taking in the calm of your space.

You turned to look at him. “You can borrow some clothes if you want.”

He nodded. “Thanks. You always have the best hoodies.”

You smiled and grabbed him one from your drawer—one he’d worn before, one that probably still smelled faintly like him.

He disappeared into the bathroom to change, and when he came out, hair a little tousled and hoodie slightly too big on him, your heart did another quiet little flip.

You were already curled up in bed, blanket pulled halfway up, lights low, your phone forgotten on the nightstand.

Jongho climbed in beside you without a word, slipping under the covers and immediately letting out a soft exhale as he settled in next to you.

You turned to face him, resting your hand gently against his chest. “Thanks for coming tonight.”

He looked at you, his voice barely above a whisper. “Thanks for being my peace.”

You didn’t say anything—you just leaned in and pressed the gentlest kiss to his cheek, letting the moment speak for itself.

And as he wrapped an arm around you, pulling you close, you knew this was it—your safe place, your quiet ending, your little piece of forever tucked into one sleepy night.

---

The next morning, you woke up with the familiar warmth of Jongho's arms wrapped around you, his chest rising and falling in a slow, steady rhythm. His body was relaxed, lips slightly parted, completely lost in sleep.

You shifted slightly, pressing your face deeper into his chest, not quite ready to leave the little world the two of you had created between the sheets. His warmth, the faint scent of his hoodie, the quiet—everything in that moment begged you to stay.

But reality tugged at the edges of your peace.

You sighed softly, carefully untangling yourself from his hold so you wouldn’t wake him. Your feet hit the cool floor as you padded to the bathroom, freshening up and slipping into your daily clothes.

By the time you came back into the room, Jongho was awake—barely.

He was lying exactly where you left him, the blanket halfway off his leg, phone in hand, earbuds in, and music playing just loud enough for you to catch the beat. His hair was a soft mess, and his eyes were still heavy with sleep, but he smiled lazily when he saw you.

“You’re up early,” he said, voice deep and raspy from sleep.

You crossed your arms with a smirk. “Someone in this house has to be responsible.”

He stretched dramatically, his hoodie riding up just enough to reveal the waistband of his sweats. “Mmm, give me like… ten more years. Then I’ll get up.”

You chuckled and grabbed his free hand, giving it a small squeeze. “I gotta head out soon. Want anything before I go?”

He blinked at you, squeezing your hand back. “Just one more hug.”

You smiled, leaning down to press a soft kiss to his forehead before sinking into the bed beside him, letting his arms wrap around you one last time before the day truly started.

You melted back into his arms for a moment, letting yourself indulge in the comfort of it—his warmth, the way his fingers found your waist like muscle memory, and how he let out a soft sigh the second you were close again.

“Okay,” you whispered, cheek against his chest. “Just five more minutes.”

“Mhm,” Jongho hummed, smug. “Told you I was the bad influence.”

You both stayed like that a while longer, the music still playing quietly from his phone. Eventually, your stomach let out a quiet grumble, and you groaned, burying your face into him.

He laughed. “That was either your stomach… or a really dramatic protest about leaving me.”

You peeked up at him. “Maybe both.”

Jongho finally sat up, stretching with a sleepy yawn as you got out of bed again, heading to the kitchen.

“Cereal or pancakes?” you called out.

“Pancakes if you’re feeling fancy. Cereal if you’re running late.”

“I’m always running late,” you replied, grabbing the pancake mix anyway.

He wandered in a few minutes later, still in your hoodie, hair sticking up in soft little waves. He leaned against the counter, arms crossed, watching you pour batter into the pan.

“You know,” he murmured, “you look really pretty like this.”

You looked over your shoulder, eyebrow raised. “Like what? Rushed and barefoot in the kitchen?”

He grinned. “Exactly that.”

You rolled your eyes, trying to fight back the smile creeping in.

He came up behind you, arms wrapping around your waist as he rested his chin on your shoulder. “Let me flip the next one.”

“You? In the kitchen? Scandalous,” you teased.

“I’m multi-talented,” he replied proudly.

You handed him the spatula. “Alright, chef. Impress me.”

He flipped it… and somehow managed to fold the pancake in half mid-air.

You burst out laughing. “Wow. So talented.”

“I panicked,” he admitted, dead serious. “It betrayed me.”

The morning continued with small laughter, messy pancakes, shared bites, and clinking mugs of coffee. It wasn’t fancy. It wasn’t a big event. But it was your kind of morning—full of love in the simplest, most beautiful way.

Jongho had his head leaned back against the cushion, eyes half-closed as you scrolled on your phone beside him. Occasionally, he’d peek over at your screen just to see what you were watching, or randomly poke your leg with his foot like he was silently asking for attention.

You nudged him back. “You gonna nap before the party?”

He opened one eye, looking at you with the laziest smirk. “Tempting.”

You tilted your head. “If you fall asleep now, I’m leaving you behind.”

“Liar,” he mumbled.

You laughed. “Okay… maybe.”

Eventually, you both stretched and pulled yourselves off the couch, the sunlight dipping just enough to remind you the day was sliding into evening.

You walked to your room to pick out something cute but comfortable, something party-worthy but still “you.” Jongho lingered behind, checking his phone, probably responding to Wooyoung's 15 unread messages. Then you heard him call out:

“Do I need to dress up for this thing or is hoodie-acceptable?”

You grinned. “It’s Seonghwa’s place. You show up in a hoodie, he might disown you.”

“Seonghwa would never disown his favorite child,” Jongho sighed dramatically. “Guess I will try anyways.”

You pulled a few outfit options from your closet, debating in the mirror, and called out, “Wanna help me pick?”

He appeared at the door, leaning on the frame like he had nothing better to do—but his eyes lit up the second he saw you holding up outfits.

“You’d look good in anything,” he said smoothly.

“Flattery doesn’t help me choose,” you shot back, but your cheeks warmed anyway.

He stepped in, gently tugging one of the hangers from your hand. “Wear this one. It’s… very you.”

You raised a brow. “You sure?”

He nodded. “Yeah. It’s perfect.”

And just like that, you could feel the shift—the lazy morning slipping away, replaced by the excitement of what the night might bring… and the quiet thrill of having him by your side for all of it.

The sun had just finished dipping below the horizon when you and Jongho stepped out of the car, the glow of streetlights and the warm ambiance from Seonghwa’s house lighting up the front porch like a welcome sign. Music thumped softly behind the front door, the kind that set the mood without being too loud. You could already hear voices inside laughing, chatting, glasses clinking.

You looked over at Jongho as you both approached the door, nudging his arm with a grin. “You ready to socialize, introvert?”

He sighed. “As ready as I’ll ever be. I’m only here because you said you’d stay near me the whole time.”

“I never said that” you teased.

He shot you a look. “Wow.”

You laughed, slipping your hand into his as the door swung open. Seonghwa greeted you both with a warm smile, dressed to perfection as always.

“Hey! You made it!” he beamed, pulling you into a quick hug and giving Jongho a clap on the shoulder. “Didn’t think I’d see you tonight, man.”

Jongho gave a dry smile. “I was blackmailed.”

You grinned proudly. “Happy to be the reason.”

Inside, the space was glowing with soft lights—candles, fairy lights, and the flicker of ambient lamps casting a cozy, social vibe. Some people were lounging on the couch, others around the kitchen island, a few already dancing in the open space by the speakers.

“Drinks are in the kitchen, snacks on the table, and if Wooyoung challenges you to anything, don’t accept,” Seonghwa warned with a laugh before disappearing to greet more guests.

You glanced up at Jongho. “So… what’s the plan? Drinks? Couch cuddles? Social suffering?”

He smirked. “Surprise me.”

You tugged him gently toward the kitchen, already spotting San and Wooyoung waving at you from across the room, drinks in hand, chaos practically radiating from them.

You gave Jongho’s hand a squeeze.

“Welcome to the party,” you whispered.

He leaned in close, lips by your ear, voice low. “Just don’t disappear on me.”

“Never.”

You pressed a gentle kiss to his cheek, watching his face immediately turn a soft shade of pink. He tried to play it cool, but the way his ears tinted red completely gave him away.

You plopped down on the couch beside him, legs brushing his as you leaned in comfortably. He shifted just enough to let you rest against him, your presence fitting perfectly into the curve of his side.

“I’ll be right back,” you said, giving his arm a gentle caress before leaning your head on his shoulder for a brief moment. “I’m gonna grab us some drinks.”

But Jongho immediately pouted, lips poking out slightly as he gave you a look of pure betrayal.

“You just said you wouldn’t disappear on me!”

You giggled, standing up anyway. “I’m disappearing to the kitchen, drama king. That’s like… twenty feet.”

“That’s twenty feet too far,” he muttered, crossing his arms and slouching into the couch like a sulking puppy.

You grinned and leaned down to kiss the top of his head. “I’ll be right back, bear. Promise.”

He peeked up at you with that reluctant smile—the kind he gave only you when he knew he was being ridiculous but couldn’t help it.

“Okay,” he mumbled. “Bring something sweet.”

“You, or the drink?” you teased.

He snorted, finally laughing. “Both.”

You winked before heading off to the kitchen, leaving him there watching you walk away with that same soft, quiet look you’d caught him wearing so many times before.

You made it to the kitchen with no issues—grabbed two drinks (something fruity for you, something simple and sweet for Jongho), and even snagged a cookie from the snack table because, well, why not?

But just as you turned around, ready to return to your pouty, sofa-bound boyfriend, you heard it.

“There she is!” Wooyoung’s voice rang out from across the kitchen like a siren of chaos.

You barely had time to blink before San popped up beside him, eyes wide with fake urgency. “We need a fourth for this game, and it’s literally life or death.”

“What game?” you asked suspiciously, backing up slightly—but too late.

They were already flanking you like bodyguards of mischief.

“Never Have I Ever,” Wooyoung declared proudly, grabbing one of the drinks from your hand—Jongho’s, of course—like it was part of some secret deal.

“We already dragged Yeosang and Yunho in, but they’re boring,” San added, grabbing your wrist. “You’re chaos. You make things fun.”

“Jongho’s gonna be so mad,” you laughed, half resisting as they started guiding you toward the living room again.

“Then tell him to come join!” Wooyoung grinned.

You looked over your shoulder, already seeing Jongho still sitting on the couch exactly where you left him—until his eyes met yours, narrowed in suspicion as you were being dragged away like a crime scene witness.

“Babe!” you called, laughing. “It’s not my fault! They’re kidnapping me!”

Jongho stood up with a groan, clearly considering whether to intervene or let it happen. “I leave you alone for two minutes.”

“Come on!” San yelled. “If she’s playing, you’re playing!”

And with that, you were plopped onto the floor with a group of overly excited friends, drinks in hand, hearts already racing from the chaos to come. Jongho sighed in surrender and slowly sat down next to you, his knee pressing against yours.

“You owe me,” he muttered.

You smirked, clinking your cup softly against his. “I’ll pay up later.”

You sat cross-legged on the floor between Jongho and San, your drink in hand, surrounded by a semi-circle of your most chaotic friends. Wooyoung clapped his hands together like he was about to summon a demon.

“Alright,” he grinned. “Never Have I Ever. The classic. Five fingers up, first one out gets a punishment. Probably something dumb. Or mildly illegal. We’ll see.”

You all lifted your hands in the air, fingers splayed. Jongho, beside you, already looked so done, but his hand went up anyway.

“I feel like I should lawyer up now,” Jongho muttered.

San smirked. “Too late. You’re in too deep.”

Wooyoung looked around like a game show host ready to ruin friendships. “Okay, I’ll start us off strong. Never have I ever… kissed someone in a public restroom.”

Gasps. Scandal. Laughter.

You stayed still. So did Jongho.

But San? Down went a finger.

“Bro!” Yunho shouted, eyes wide.

San just shrugged. “Look, it was clean. And it was late.”

“Define ‘clean,’” Jongho mumbled.

Next went Yeosang, calm as ever. “Never have I ever… lied to get out of a date.”

You dropped a finger. Wooyoung dropped two, because of course.

“Wow,” Jongho teased, glancing sideways at you. “I’m scared to ask.”

“Hey,” you grinned, nudging his knee. “That was pre-you. Obviously.”

San pointed at Wooyoung. “Your turn.”

Wooyoung took a large gulp of his drink. Already ready to bring Jongho down.

“Never have I ever… have slept with someone in this room.”

You flushed and tried to hide your smile as you very slowly, very casually… lowered a finger.

Jongho noticed. His face deep red as he lowered a finger as well.

The group exploded.

“BRO.” “YOU DID NOT—” “OUR BABY BEAR AND HIS GIRLFRIEND!!!”

You shrugged with a smirk. “Might’ve been the same person who’s pouting on the couch earlier.”

Jongho bit back a smile. The group lost it.

“I KNEW IT!” San yelled.

“THEY'RE SO GONE FOR EACH OTHER,” Wooyoung added, already throwing a pillow in the air like this was some romantic K-drama climax.

You and Jongho just exchanged a look. You—grinning. Him—trying so hard not to smile like an idiot.

Yunho, barely keeping it together, wiped his eyes. “Okay, my turn… Never have I ever fallen asleep while someone was talking.”

You, Wooyoung, and Yeosang immediately dropped fingers.

Jongho leaned toward you with a soft grin. “Is this where you confess that I bore you to sleep?”

You laughed, leaning your head lightly against his shoulder. “Only when you talk about video game updates.”

“Wow. Noted.”

After a few more rounds and a lot more chaos—accidental flirty confessions, someone admitting to stealing hotel slippers, San nearly losing a bet to Yeosang of all people—you were all breathless with laughter.

Jongho was still beside you, fingers long since folded, shoulders relaxed, his hand now loosely laced with yours.

You excused yourself quietly from the group, letting Jongho know you were heading to the bathroom. He gave your hand a quick squeeze before letting go, nodding with that sleepy-eyed look he always wore when he was finally relaxed in a crowd.

After finishing up in the bathroom, you made your way back down the hall, but your steps slowed as you passed the kitchen. You could hear low voices—Seonghwa and Hongjoong.

You paused, not meaning to eavesdrop, but their tone caught your attention.

“I don’t know, man,” Seonghwa said, voice softer than usual. “It’s weird… watching everything change. We used to talk every day. Now it’s all catching up with me.”

“I get it,” Hongjoong replied gently. “It’s life, not distance. You’re still his person. He’s just figuring stuff out, like the rest of us.”

They laughed quietly—bittersweet, but warm. It was one of those real moments between friends. Raw, vulnerable. And it made you smile a little, heart full just hearing the closeness between them.

But before you could turn to head back, a voice from behind startled you.

“Hey, cutie…”

You blinked and turned, eyebrows raised slightly.

A guy—mid-twenties, tall, casual smirk on his lips—stood leaning against the hallway wall behind you, clearly tipsy but trying way too hard to look smooth. You didn’t recognize him immediately, but you assumed he was one of Seonghwa’s coworkers or plus-ones.

You gave him a polite smile, already stepping back slightly. “Hey. Sorry—I was just heading back to my friends.”

He didn’t take the hint.

“You here with anyone?” he asked, smile crooked.

You took another small step back, tone firm but still calm. “Yeah. My boyfriend.”

“Oh c’mon,” he chuckled, brushing a hand through his hair. “Guys like that don’t appreciate girls like you. You should hang with me instead. Promise I’m more fun.”

Before you could answer—before you even had to—another voice cut in, low and sharp.

“She already said she’s taken.”

You turned to see Jongho standing there now, just a few feet away, eyes locked on the guy with that quiet intensity he rarely showed in public.

He stepped forward once, not threatening—but very, very clear.

The guy blinked, looking between you two, then laughed nervously. “Whoa, hey man, chill—was just talking—”

“Yeah,” Jongho said, voice calm but icy. “Talk somewhere else.”

The guy held his hands up, muttering something under his breath before turning and slipping back into the party.

Once he was gone, Jongho let out a breath and turned to you, gaze softening immediately. “You okay?”

You nodded, smiling a little at his protectiveness. “Yeah. He was just being annoying.”

Jongho stepped closer, his hand gently brushing yours. “If I’d known someone was hitting on you, I would’ve followed you the second you stood up.”

You chuckled, leaning into him slightly. “Aww. You were keeping an eye on me.”

“Of course I was,” he said softly. “You're mine.”

You squeezed his hand, heart fluttering just a little more than it should’ve. “Let’s go back before Yunho starts a fire trying to make s’mores on the stove.”

Jongho gave you a small, almost shy smile, still holding onto your hand as you walked back together.

But this time, he didn’t let go.

You leaned up and kissed his cheek—slow, gentle, reassuring. His face flushed a little again, but this time he didn’t pull away. He just held your hand tighter.

You both settled back on the sofa, slipping into the comfortable corner you’d claimed earlier. You took a slow sip from your drink, trying to relax back into the night, but you could feel it: Jongho wasn’t quite settled.

His arm slid around your waist with a quiet kind of certainty, pulling you closer into his side. His body was warm, but there was tension in his hold—protective, almost instinctive.

He scanned the room slowly, eyes drifting across faces, especially the people you didn’t know well. His jaw was set, brows slightly furrowed. He wasn’t being dramatic or obvious—but you knew him. You could feel it.

You rested your head against his shoulder, brushing your fingers gently along his thigh in small circles. “Hey…” you whispered. “I’m okay.”

He exhaled slowly through his nose, finally glancing down at you.

“I know,” he said softly. “I just… didn’t like that guy getting near you. The way he talked to you.”

You looked up at him, your voice just above a whisper. “You didn’t even hear the worst of it.”

His jaw tightened again, but he stayed quiet.

“You can relax,” you added gently, cupping his cheek for a second. “I’m here. With you. He’s irrelevant.”

Jongho looked at you, really looked at you, and slowly, you felt his grip soften. His shoulders eased, and he pressed a soft kiss to the top of your head.

“I just don’t want anyone thinking they can treat you like that,” he murmured.

“They can’t,” you said. “And you made that very clear.”

He chuckled under his breath. “Guess I did, huh?”

You nodded, snuggling back into him. “You're kind of hot when you’re mad.”

That got a small laugh out of him, and you felt the tension start to melt away. His hand found yours again, lacing your fingers together and holding them against his chest like a quiet promise.

And even though the music played on, and the conversations buzzed around you, Jongho didn’t pay attention to anyone else for the rest of the night—only you.

Wooyoung appeared out of nowhere—again—this time holding a tray of food like some kind of chaotic party butler.

“I don’t think y’all have eaten,” he said, offering the platter with an uncharacteristically sincere smile. “Here.”

“Thanks, Woo,” you said warmly, taking it from him.

Jongho nodded. “Appreciate it.”

Wooyoung gave you both a knowing grin, already backing away. “Seonghwa’s about to start a fire out back, by the way. Y’all are welcome to join if you ever stop being disgustingly adorable.”

You giggled. “Hmm… maybe.”

“Just don’t set anything on fire,” Jongho added flatly.

“No promises!” Wooyoung called out, disappearing into the crowd again.

You turned your attention back to the food—finger snacks, a couple of skewers, something warm and savory that smelled way too good to ignore. You grabbed a piece and held it out to Jongho, who blinked at you like a cat slowly waking up from a nap.

“Open,” you whispered with a grin.

He smirked but complied, taking the bite and chewing while still holding you close.

“My turn,” he said, grabbing something off the plate and lifting it to your lips.

You took the bite, humming in satisfaction as he wrapped his arms tighter around your waist, pulling you effortlessly onto his lap. He rested his chin against your shoulder, clearly more relaxed now, eyes half-lidded and full of something soft.

“Mm,” you mumbled while chewing, “we’re gonna get too comfortable and fall asleep right here.”

“I could live with that,” Jongho said against your shoulder, voice low and warm.

You turned your head slightly, brushing your nose against his cheek.

“You still wanna join the fire outside?” you asked gently.

He shrugged. “If you want to. I’m good either way.”

You smiled, watching how the flickering lights inside danced in his eyes. “Let’s finish this, then maybe we’ll go warm up by the fire.”

“Only if you promise to keep feeding me,” he murmured with a small smirk.

You laughed, feeding him another bite without hesitation. “Always.”

After finishing up the last few bites from Wooyoung’s platter (and playfully fighting over the final piece), you and Jongho finally stood, stretching just a little before making your way through the house and out into the backyard.

The fire pit was already lit, its flames dancing gently in the cool night air. The warmth reached out to greet you the second you stepped outside, the scent of wood smoke and toasted marshmallows floating lazily in the breeze.

Hongjoong stood nearby with a set of metal skewers, looking like a Pinterest dad with his sleeves rolled up and a mug of something warm in hand. San and Wooyoung were already seated around the fire, Wooyoung aggressively roasting three marshmallows at once while San was arguing with Yunho about the “correct” way to make a s’more.

You and Jongho walked over quietly, hand in hand, and dropped down onto a bench across from them. The fire cast a soft orange glow across his face as he tugged you closer, your knees brushing, your bodies naturally leaning into each other.

“There they are,” Wooyoung announced dramatically. “The lovebirds finally decided to grace us with their presence.”

“You’re just mad we didn’t need your s’more tutorial,” you teased, grabbing a skewer from the pile and poking the fire with it.

“I give great s’more advice,” he argued.

“You almost lit your sleeve on fire ten minutes ago,” San pointed out.

“Details.”

Laughter rippled through the group. Seonghwa passed out mugs of hot cocoa with cinnamon sticks in them—because of course he did—and you took one with a quiet “thank you,” your fingers brushing warm against the mug as you sipped.

Jongho sat back, letting you rest against his side as he draped his arm around your shoulders. He was quiet, as usual, but his eyes were softer than usual too, reflecting the firelight as he watched everyone talk and laugh.

You looked up at him, smiling softly. “You good?”

He nodded; voice low. “Yeah. I like this.”

“Me too,” you said, letting your head rest on his shoulder.

Wooyoung started telling a story that was probably exaggerated, San was already laughing before he finished, and someone tossed another log onto the fire, sending sparks swirling upward into the night.

And in the middle of all of it—your arm wrapped snugly around Jongho’s, the fire crackling at your feet, the sound of laughter all around you, and the kind of night that felt just a little too perfect to be real—you closed your eyes for a second and simply existed in it.

That peace, however, was short-lived.

Wooyoung, with his signature smirk and zero sense of personal space, suddenly swooped in and grabbed Jongho’s arm, dramatically wrapping it tighter around you like he was making a grand romantic gesture.

“There we go,” Wooyoung grinned. “Make it look like a K-drama, come on.”

Jongho blinked, processing the moment… then immediately blushed, his entire face turning that soft pink hue he always got when someone caught him off guard. He glared at Wooyoung and threw a light punch to his shoulder—not hard, but enough to make a point.

“Ow!” Wooyoung fake-cried, laughing even as he stumbled back. “Abuse! I’m just trying to spread love!”

San, witnessing the chaos from the other side of the fire, snorted into his drink. “He’s so whipped. It’s adorable.”

You rolled your eyes, trying not to laugh as you leaned into Jongho a little more, smug. “You know… you didn’t have to pull me closer.”

“I was already holding you,” Jongho muttered, flustered as ever.

“Mmhm,” you teased. “Sure you were.”

He groaned softly and buried his face in your shoulder. “I can’t hang out with you when they’re around.”

“Yes, you can,” you said, pressing a kiss to the top of his head. “You just have to accept your fate.”

“Unfortunately,” he mumbled, but you felt the way his grip on you tightened slightly, like even in the embarrassment, he wouldn’t change a thing.

And as Wooyoung retold the moment to Yunho like it was a dramatic soap opera twist, and San tried to burn a marshmallow into a torch for no reason at all, you and Jongho just stayed wrapped up in your own little world.

A little chaotic. A little sweet. Just perfect.

After the fire had burned low and the group began to scatter with tired smiles and warm goodbyes, you and Jongho decided to call it a night too. This time, though, instead of him staying at your place—you went home with him.

His apartment was quiet when you stepped inside, the hum of the city faint through the windows. You kicked off your shoes and stretched with a sleepy sigh, the scent of smoke from the fire pit still clinging to your clothes.

You frowned, tugging at your hoodie. “Ugh, I smell like burnt marshmallow and regret.”

Jongho raised an eyebrow as he tossed his keys into the bowl by the door. “So… the usual?”

You gave him a dramatic look. “Rude.”

He chuckled as you wandered into his room, flopping onto his bed without a second thought. You buried your face into his pillow and groaned, muffled, “All my clothes smell like smoke. Can I borrow yours?”

When you peeked up at him, you gave your best puppy-eyed look—the one he never resisted.

He sighed playfully, already walking over to his closet. “Why do you even ask when you know I’m gonna say yes?”

“Because I like the illusion of choice,” you said with a grin.

He tossed you one of his oversized shirts and a pair of soft joggers. “Here. You better give these back.”

You stood up and took the clothes with a proud little smirk. “Are you sure about that?”

He paused mid-step, turning to look at you. “Are you… not going to give them back?”

You shook your head slowly, backing toward the bed with a mischievous glint in your eyes. “Why would I?”

And then—with a dramatic flourish—you threw yourself backward onto his bed, hugging his pillows to your face like you’d just found treasure.

He rolled his eyes, but the corners of his lips twitched up. “You’re such a menace.”

“You love it.”

He walked over to the edge of the bed and leaned down, hands resting beside your head on the mattress. “Unfortunately,” he murmured, his voice soft, eyes warm.

You looked up at him with a sleepy smile. “You love me anyway.”

“Yeah,” he said, brushing a thumb over your cheek. “I do.”

You changed into his clothes, the fabric instantly comforting—warm, familiar, like being wrapped in him. His hoodie was far too big, the sleeves swallowing your hands, and the scent of him clung to every thread.

When you walked out of the bathroom, hair tied back and face washed clean, Jongho was already under the covers, the lamp casting a soft, golden glow over the room. He looked up at you with that gentle, sleepy gaze—the one he only gave you when it was just the two of you, in moments like this.

You slipped into bed beside him without a word. The second your head hit the pillow, his arm was already around you, pulling you close like you were exactly where you belonged.

You melted into him, one leg wrapping around his as you rested your face against his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. His hand slid into your hair, fingers brushing softly along your scalp.

Neither of you spoke for a while. You didn’t need to.

The world had quieted outside those walls. No teasing friends, no firelight crackle, no playful chaos—just warmth, soft breathing, and a sense of peace that couldn’t be faked.

“Comfortable?” he whispered, lips brushing against your forehead.

“Mmm,” you hummed sleepily. “You make the best pillow.”

“I try.”

You smiled against him. “Thanks for tonight.”

He kissed your temple. “Thanks for staying.”

You let out a long, content sigh as your eyelids grew heavier, your body sinking further into his hold.

“Don’t let go,” you murmured, voice trailing off.

“Never,” he whispered.

And with that, the room faded into silence—his arms wrapped around you, your breaths slowly syncing, hearts steady and full. The night wrapped itself around you both like a lullaby, gentle and safe.

And sleep came easy.

Together.

---

The next day rolled in peacefully, slow and golden. You and Jongho got up late, lounged around for a bit, shared a lazy breakfast, and eventually decided to head out for the afternoon—no real plan, just time together.

You ended up at a small local restaurant, the kind with cozy lighting and the smell of good food wafting out the door before you even stepped inside. You were excited, already scanning the menu in your head, and as you walked up to the counter to order, Jongho followed close behind.

But something felt… different.

You were halfway through telling the cashier your order when you felt him standing unusually close behind you—close-close. His chest nearly brushed your back, and you could feel the low hum of tension in the way he stood. His arms were loose at his sides, but his presence was… hovering. Protective. Watchful.

You blinked, confused for a moment, then glanced over your shoulder.

Jongho wasn’t looking at you—his eyes were fixed on something across the room, jaw slightly clenched, body stiff. His posture was straight, shoulders squared, like he was trying to make himself look bigger. Tougher.

You leaned back slightly into him, enough to get his attention without drawing the room’s.

“Are you okay?” you whispered, a little amused but mostly curious.

His eyes flicked down to you, then softened just slightly. “Yeah.”

You narrowed your eyes. “You’re acting like a bodyguard. What’s going on?”

He glanced toward the corner again before muttering, “Guy over there’s been looking at you since we walked in.”

You blinked. “Wait—seriously?”

Jongho nodded subtly, his tone low. “Didn’t like the way he smiled at you when we walked past. Just being careful.”

You bit back a small laugh, touched and a little flattered by his subtle burst of possessiveness. “Jongho… you’re kind of puffing your chest out right now.”

“Am not.”

“You are,” you whispered, grinning. “You look like you're trying to win a fight you haven't even been challenged to.”

He huffed softly and shrugged, but he didn’t back down. “He was looking at you like he wanted to come over. Not happening.”

You finished placing the order, thanked the cashier, and then turned fully to face him, poking his chest gently. “You’re cute when you get all bodyguard mode.”

He frowned slightly, but the way his hand slipped around your waist said more than his words. “I’m serious.”

“I know,” you said, pressing a quick kiss to his cheek. “And I love it. Just don’t forget you already won, okay?”

That finally earned a small smile from him. “Yeah… I know.”

He still kept a hand on you the whole time you waited for the food—just in case.

You both took your food to a quieter table in the corner of the restaurant, tucked near the window. Jongho sat across from you, unusually quiet as he picked at his food. Normally, you’d be sharing bites, making sarcastic comments about the weird decor, or teasing each other over who ordered better.

But today… something was different.

You watched him for a few moments, catching the way his eyes kept flicking to the door, then to you, then down at his plate. His body was here, but his mind? Somewhere else.

You reached across the table, gently touching his hand. “Hey,” you said softly. “What’s going on with you today?”

He looked up slowly, blinking like you’d pulled him out of a deep thought. “Huh?”

“You’ve been acting kinda off since this morning,” you said gently. “And not in a bad way. Just… distant. Like you’re stuck in your head.”

He hesitated, glanced out the window, and then sighed, resting his forearms on the table.

“I don’t know,” he muttered. “It’s stupid.”

“It’s you, so it’s definitely not stupid,” you said, giving his hand a soft squeeze. “Talk to me.”

Jongho was quiet for a beat, then spoke without looking at you. “I think I just… noticed a lot yesterday. At the party. The way people talk to you. Look at you. And it’s not that I don’t trust you—I do. I really do.”

You stayed quiet, letting him get it out.

“It’s just… I’m not used to feeling this way. I guess I’ve been thinking like… what if one day you realize I’m not enough? That you could have someone easier. Louder. Cooler.”

Your heart sank, but not in a heavy way—in the way that comes from seeing someone you love finally to reveal something they’ve been carrying alone.

You got up without a word and moved to his side of the booth, sliding in next to him. He didn’t flinch, didn’t look up—but when you reached for his hand again, he held onto it like a lifeline.

“Jongho,” you said softly, “I didn’t fall for you because you’re loud or flashy. I fell for the quiet, thoughtful, stubborn, protective, real parts of you. And you are so enough. More than enough.”

He finally looked at you, and you could see it in his eyes—uncertainty mixing with that deep need to believe you.

You rested your forehead gently against his. “I don’t want easier. I want you. Always have.”

His breath hitched just slightly. “Even when I get weirdly possessive in restaurants?”

You laughed softly. “Especially then.”

He let out a breath of relief, his lips curving into a small, lopsided smile. “I’m sorry. I don’t mean to be possessive.”

“You’re not possessive,” you whispered. “You’re just in love. And so am I.”

And for the first time that day, Jongho relaxed. Fully. Shoulders softening, tension draining, hand tightening gently around yours as if silently saying, thank you.

After lunch, you gently tugged Jongho’s hand and led him outside, not saying much—just quietly guiding him toward the small walking path near the park nearby. The air was cool but crisp, and the late afternoon sun painted everything in soft golden hues.

He didn’t resist, just walked beside you in silence, his fingers tangled loosely with yours. He hadn’t fully shaken whatever he was feeling—his quiet tension still clung to him, like he was fighting thoughts too loud for the peaceful atmosphere around you.

You let the silence stretch for a while, giving him space. Sometimes the best thing you could offer wasn’t words—it was just being there.

Still, your heart ached. You could feel how deep his fear ran. And you knew it—because you carried the same one.

You slowed your steps and finally spoke, your voice barely above a whisper. “You know… sometimes I get scared too.”

Jongho glanced over, a little startled, like he hadn’t expected you to speak.

“Scared of what?” he asked, his tone softer now.

You kept your eyes on the path ahead. “That someone else will come along. Someone louder. Funnier. Prettier. Someone who doesn’t cry when they get overwhelmed or overthink every little thing. Someone who doesn’t wear your hoodies and ‘forget’ to return them on purpose.”

You tried to smile, but it trembled.

Jongho stopped walking, gently pulling you with him. His hand reached out, cupping your cheek as he made you look at him.

“You’re scared of me leaving?”

You nodded slowly. “I think about it more than I’d like to admit.”

He blinked, like he couldn’t believe what he was hearing. “But… you’re you. You’re everything.”

You gave a breathy laugh. “That’s exactly what I think about you.”

For a moment, neither of you spoke. The wind rustled through the trees around you, and the sun dipped just a little lower in the sky. But something shifted in that silence—something honest and wide open.

“I always feel like I don’t deserve you,” he said finally. “Like you’re gonna wake up one day and realize you settled.”

“And I always feel like I’m not enough,” you admitted. “That you’re gonna meet someone who doesn’t get anxious over dumb things, someone cooler, prettier… someone better.”

Jongho stepped closer, both hands holding your face now, his forehead resting gently against yours.

“You’re everything,” he whispered. “I don’t want anyone else. I don’t see anyone else.”

Your voice cracked a little. “Me neither.”

He kissed you, slow and grounding—like he was pouring all the words he didn’t know how to say into that one moment.

And when he pulled away, he didn’t go far. He just wrapped his arms around you and held you, right there on the path, like he was anchoring both of you in place.

Two imperfect people. Both afraid. Completely in love.

And holding each other like they’d never let go.

“You’ve never kissed me in public like that before…” you murmured, voice small and heart still racing. Your cheeks burned instantly, that warmth spreading all the way to your ears.

Jongho looked at you, a little shy himself, but smiling.

“I know,” he said quietly. “Guess I stopped caring who sees when it’s about you.”

You blinked, stunned speechless for half a second—and then he laughed, trying to play it off before his own face turned pink.

“I wish I could do more to prove how much I love you,” he added, scratching the back of his neck. “But it’s hard being broke.”

You laughed softly, the kind that came straight from your chest, warm and full of everything you felt. “That was enough,” you said, voice sweet as honey. “More than enough.”

He glanced at you, and you swore there was a shine in his eyes he was trying to hide.

You walked back to his place hand-in-hand, the world quieter now, both of your hearts a little more settled.

Once inside, you grabbed your bag from the side of the couch, letting out a small sigh. “I need to get ready for work.”

Jongho sat on the edge of the bed, watching you with that same soft look he always saved for these moments—when things felt too good and too short.

“If you want to visit me again tonight,” you said as you slipped your shoes on, turning back toward him with a small smile, “I’d love it.”

You leaned in, kissing his cheek gently, slower this time. “I always do better when you’re around.”

Jongho nodded, his voice low. “Then I’ll be there.”

You gave him one last look—affection in your eyes, a silent promise between you—before stepping out the door, already missing him the second it clicked shut behind you.

And behind it, Jongho just sat there, hand resting where you kissed him, heart full and already counting down the hours until he saw you again.

Work wasn’t too hectic yet, which was a blessing. The evening had barely begun, and the restaurant was still in that calm before the storm—dim lights, soft music, quiet chatter from a few early diners.

Your manager waved you off with a warm smile. “It’s slow for now—go ahead and chill until we pick up.”

You nodded, grateful. “Thanks.”

You slipped behind the bar and perched on one of the staff stools tucked to the side, your apron tied loosely, hair tucked behind your ears. Your coworker, Mina, glanced at you with a knowing smirk.

“Long night?” she asked as she shook a drink behind the counter.

You smiled to yourself. “No… actually, it was perfect.”

She raised a brow, passing you a drink she threw together with a wink. “Perfect usually has a name.”

You laughed, taking a sip. “It does. And he might be visiting later.”

Your coworker grinned. “Jongho?”

You nodded, pulling out your phone and shooting him a quick message.

As your coworker Mina moved back to prep for the night rush, you leaned your elbows on the bar and stared out at the slowly filling restaurant, sipping your drink and letting your thoughts wander. You could already picture it—Jongho walking in, hoodie on, soft eyes scanning the room until they landed on you. And then that small smile of his, the one no one else really got to see.

You sat at the bar, slowly nursing your drink, phone face-up next to you in case Jongho replied. A few more customers started trickling in, the soft hum of the restaurant gradually picking up—but it was still manageable, still slow enough to breathe.

Mina passed by again, offering a playful, “Still no Jongho?”

You smiled. “Not yet. He’s probably on his way, though.”

You turned back to the entrance just in time to see a familiar face walk in—not Jongho.

It was him. That guy from the party. The one who hit on you outside the bathroom.

Your stomach dipped a little.

He didn’t seem to notice you at first, heading straight to the hostess stand. But then, as the host led him toward a table near the bar, his eyes scanned the room—and landed on you.

He stopped. Smirked.

You immediately looked away and pretended to scroll on your phone, heart beating faster—not out of fear, just discomfort.

Mina leaned in slightly, whispering, “You good?”

You nodded slowly. “Yeah. Just… someone I was hoping not to see again.”

The guy casually took his seat, now just a few feet from the bar, and—of course—turned his chair slightly like he was already angling for another conversation.

And as if on cue, your phone buzzed.

"On my way there, don't fall asleep before I arrive." You read the message.

You smiled at the message—but when you glanced up, you noticed the guy was still watching you. Not in a creepy way. Just… like he was waiting to catch your attention again.

You took another sip of your drink, this time slower, more focused. You weren’t nervous. You weren’t threatened. But you were really hoping Jongho walked through that door soon.

Because some people just didn’t know when to quit.

You set your drink down with a quiet clink and slowly exhaled through your nose. The guy was still watching you—subtle, not obvious enough to call attention, but persistent. Like he thought there was still a chance you’d come over and entertain him.

You weren’t about to play that game again.

You stood from your seat behind the bar and walked out to the front casually, as if checking on something, then circled back toward his table—keeping it professional, but not shy.

His eyes lit up slightly as you approached. “Hey,” he said, that same smug smile creeping onto his face. “Didn’t expect to see you again so soon.”

You gave him a short, polite smile. “Yeah, funny how small the city is.”

“You work here?” he asked, eyebrows raising.

“I do,” you replied, voice even and calm. “Which means I’m here to take care of paying customers… not to be flirted with during my shift.”

That made him blink. “Whoa—relax, I was just being nice.”

“No,” you said, gently crossing your arms, “you were being persistent. Last night wasn’t the time, and neither is now. I’m not interested. I’m with someone. Respect that.”

He opened his mouth like he was about to argue, voice dropping into something smug.

“I promise I’m more fun,” he muttered, eyes flicking down to your legs. “Your little boy toy isn’t here to protect you.”

Before you could react, his hand slid up your thigh.

But before your body could even register the shock, the sharp slam of glass against wood cracked through the moment like thunder.

Mina.

She stood tall behind the bar, jaw tight, eyes locked on the guy with the coldest glare you’d ever seen her wear. The bottle she slammed down stood upright—but it was clear the threat wasn’t subtle.

“She is not interested,” she said, voice like steel. “Leave her alone. Or I’ll call security. And trust me, I won’t be the one to regret that.”

You didn’t say anything right away—but the small smirk on your lips said everything. You straightened your posture, eyes locking with the guy’s, letting him see exactly how done you were.

And then, before he could even respond—you felt it.

A shift in the room. A ripple of heat.

You glanced toward the door—and there he was.

Jongho.

His eyes locked instantly on the scene—on you, and the guy’s hand still on your thigh.

And that was all it took.

He stormed over in three long, heavy strides. No words. No hesitation. His hand grabbed the guy by the collar, yanking him up from his seat with a strength you didn’t see coming.

The guy stumbled back, shocked. “What the—”

Jongho’s chest puffed out, standing between you like a wall, eyes burning. “Don’t you ever touch her again.”

His voice was low, but full of fire. Calm in a terrifying way.

The guy tried to play it off, holding his hands up. “Hey, hey—I didn’t know she was—”

“You knew,” Jongho snapped. “And you didn’t care.”

The guy froze, realizing he wasn’t winning this one. Not against Jongho’s death stare. Not with half the restaurant watching. Not when Mina still had her hand on the bottle, like she wanted a reason to throw it.

Jongho stepped forward again, his voice a warning. “Leave. Before I make sure you can’t come back.”

The guy didn’t argue this time.

He turned and stormed off, muttering under his breath, disappearing out the front door in seconds.

Silence hung in the air for a beat—tense, charged, heavy.

Then Jongho turned to you.

His breathing was shaky, and his hands—though clenched moments ago—were now soft as he reached out to check on you.

“You okay?” he asked, voice tight.

You nodded slowly, heart racing. “Yeah. Thanks to you… and Mina.”

Mina gave a low whistle, finally relaxing. “Damn. That was kind of hot.”

You laughed, still breathless. “Kinda?”

Jongho didn’t smile, not yet. His hand cupped your cheek gently, thumb brushing under your eye.

“I’m sorry I wasn’t here sooner.”

You leaned into him. “You were right on time.”

And as the tension began to melt, and Mina muttered something about needing a real drink after that, you clung to the one truth that mattered most:

Jongho didn’t just show up.

He showed up for you.

Every time.

After the guy was gone, your manager came over, told you to take a break, maybe step outside for a bit—and without hesitation, Jongho had his hand on the small of your back, gently guiding you out through the side door, away from the noise.

The evening air was cooler now, the city lights flickering just beyond the alley behind the restaurant. It was quiet back here, save for the distant hum of traffic and the thud of your own heartbeat finally beginning to slow.

Jongho leaned against the wall beside you, arms crossed, gaze downcast. His chest was still rising and falling a little faster than usual.

You stood next to him for a moment, letting the silence stretch. Then, softly, “Are you okay?”

He exhaled sharply through his nose. “That’s supposed to be my question.”

You turned to him, gently nudging your shoulder against his. “Well, I’m asking first.”

He looked at you then—eyes a little glossy with all the emotion he was holding back. “I almost lost it in there.”

You shook your head. “You didn’t. You handled it.”

He ran a hand through his hair, visibly frustrated with himself. “I walked in and saw his hand on you and… I didn’t think. I just reacted.”

“You were protecting me,” you said quietly. “It wasn’t too much. Not to me.”

His eyes searched yours, almost like he didn’t believe you at first. “I was scared.”

You blinked. “Of what?”

“That I was too late,” he admitted. “That something would happen, and I wouldn’t be there. That you’d be hurt or scared and I couldn’t stop it.”

You stepped closer, slowly, carefully, and placed your hands on either side of his face, guiding his gaze back to yours.

“I was scared too,” you whispered. “But then you were there. And suddenly I wasn’t anymore.”

His eyes closed at your touch, leaning slightly into your hands.

“You didn’t fail me, Jongho. You never do.”

He opened his eyes again, softer now. “You’re really okay?”

You nodded, wrapping your arms around his waist and pressing your forehead to his chest. “I am now.”

He held you close, arms wrapping around your shoulders tightly, like if he let go, the whole world might fall apart again.

You stood there like that for a while, just holding each other under the quiet city sky. No pressure. No noise. Just the safety of his arms and the weight of everything unspoken settling between you in the most honest way.

Finally, he whispered, voice so low it was almost lost to the wind, “I love you.”

You pulled back just enough to look up at him. “I love you too. So much.”

He smiled then—small, real, and full of everything you needed.

“Let’s go home after your shift,” he said softly. “I just wanna be with you.”

“Deal,” you whispered, taking his hand again.

And together, you stepped back inside—stronger, closer, and more in love than ever.

•

A/N: I hope you enjoyed :3 (I actually decided to make an entire series of this that is in my drafts already hehehe (this is just a short version, but I might tweak some of it in the actual series)

[dredgesnails]

i genuinely think the people who insist the life series is scripted just don’t understand the difference between something scripted and something that’s been given a basic premise and directives that everyone involved in agrees to play along with for the bit. like, no, specific moments aren’t scripted, but there’s a reason the series isn’t just “best pvper wins” and it’s because they deliberately prioritise entertainment over pure skill because the same person winning every time just wouldn’t be fun.

like, for the most part they’re a bunch of drama kids who have been given the perfect playground to act out the shakespearian tragedy of their dreams (some more so than others) (hello rendog) and they’re given the tools and situation to do so but everything else is just improv. and they’re also just having fun like i think we should all remember they’re doing this to have fun with their friends and play on a server where anything goes and they can grief all they want and sometimes they’ll just make stupid mistakes like walking off the side of a diving board and dying because they were so miffed about losing to a best tower competition they forgot where the stairs were, or blowing themselves up with their own tnt trap because they placed one block in the wrong place.

also i think people forget just how generally predictable people are in general, like after five seasons you can definitely start to guess how people will behave because they’re just like that. joel is reckless and he likes to poke the bear, martyn is good at staying alive but not good at keeping hearts (the difference between winning limlife and going out early in secret life), scott is good at the social game and a formidable opponent but also terribly self sacrificial, bdubs will betray anyone he’s allied with if offered something good, etc etc etc

[redfoxwritesstuff]

Steamy Situations 18+ (Alastor x reader)

Alastor x reader Rated: Adults only Warnings: Smut. It's shower smut. Female bodied reader. Careful with your shower sex.

Summary: You're hot and bored and your husband is busy working. If only there was a way you could distract him, get some of his attention and cool off.

Interested in a Audio version of this fic? Part 1 Part 2 PS: https://discord.gg/q8kqx7ss is an Alastor server a friend of mine started and https://discord.gg/HeEbAHju is a vox server another friend of mine started. More friends are always nice to have <3

~~~~~<3 He had been slouched over his fucking desk for hours, working away at scripts for the next week’s broadcasts. They were perfect, probably had been for a while but when he was stressed, the perfectionist came out in full force. 

The summer heat and humidity had sweat sticking to your skin. Though the curtains were closed all day to keep the harsh sun from warming the house any more than possible, it was hot. 

The silk of your slip clung to your back as you crossed the room, wrapping your arms around his broad shoulders. If you were hot and grimy feeling, he had to be too. 

He huffed at the interruption, making you roll your eyes.

“Don’t roll your eyes at me,” he mumbled, not looking up from the pages in his hands. 

“I didn’t-” 

“Don’t lie to me,” he set the papers down with a huff. “Can I do something for you?”

“I need a shower,” you said, running your palm up the back of his neck, threading your fingers into the short curls that had grown wild with the humidity.

“Take one?” He leaned back into your touch as tension slipped from his shoulders. 

“You need one as well.” Your thumb rubbed at the drop of sweat rolling down the side of his neck.

“It would appear so,” He said with a laugh, shifting to face you. “Do you have something in mind, my dear?” 

“Well,” you slipped into the space between his torso and the desk that had been newly opened up, “If you need a shower and I need a shower, we should both take a shower.”

“Good thing we have two showers!” Alastor’s grin was wide as you struggled against the urge to roll your eyes again. 

“Or,” you drew out the word as you ran your hand up his chest, “We could take one together.” 

“How scandalous.” He sounded anything but scandalized as he patted your thigh, light reflecting off the simple gold wedding band. “Let’s get on with it then.” 

~~~~~<3

You had innocent intentions, stepping into the bathroom. Honest. 

It’s just, when you saw his warm tan skin under the running water, sending the shampoo down the valleys and dips between his strong muscles, you found yourself feeling rather jealous. 

You hadn’t even intended for this to happen. One moment his shampoo was running down his chest and the next it was your hands. Soft, water cooled skin over firm muscles that spoke of how hard her worked to maintain the property jumped and twitched under your touch. 

The water wasn’t hot but it wasn’t cold either, being somewhere comfortably between to soothe away the heat. It did nothing to cool the heat quickly building between you as his hands went to rest on your hips. His frame blocked the spray of the water, mist fanning out around him, catching the light in a way that made it look like he was glowing. 

“What?” 

“You’re so handsome,” you whisper, hands running up his water cooled skin to pull him to you. 

Standing on your tip toes, you trusted him to hold you steady as you slotted your lips over his. Strong hands wrapped around your hips, thumbs tracing circles over wet skin as your naked front pressed against his. Water running over his shoulder filled what little gaps there were between you. 

With a sigh, he pulled his lips from yours only to leave a trail of kisses along your jaw, “Thank you, my Dear. I am but nothing in the face of the beauty you possess.” 

“You flirt,” you tease, softly slapping his wet shoulder. 

“Hardly,” his chuckle seemed to bounce off the walls of the small room, wrapping you up in it as much as you were wrapped in his arms as Alastor croons, “Your beauty transcends even the brightest of flowers” Alastor croons. 

Your protest died on your lips as his warm tongue ran along your neck, dragging higher until his lips pulled your ear lobe between his teeth. You arch in his arms, trying to put space between you. His thighs were pressed against yours, member twitching to life against you as you half heartedly tried to wiggle out of your husbands arms.

“You’re not slippery enough to get away from me yet,” Alastor teased, arms tightening around you and holding you flush against him.

“Alastor,” you whined as one hand run lower, grabbing a palmful of your ass, “We’re in the shower, stop it’s-”

“Indecent?” Alastor teased, pushing her against the cold wet tile of the wall. “Scandalous, even?” 

“Yes,” your voice was weak as he looked down at you, cock pressing up against your thigh.

“Was it not you,” Alastor’s fingers slipped over wet skin, running up your ribs to cup a breast. Skilled fingers pinched and pulled at your nipple, “who disturbed me at my work with this indecent idea? Wishing to shower together?” 

“Yes?” 

Whimpering, you struggled to keep yourself from sliding down the wall. Alastor’s strong thigh pressed between your knees, pushing until they parted under the pressure. You had no choice but to yield until his thigh pressed tightly against your core, ensuring you would remain standing.

“And now? HA! Now you expect me to keep my mind on something other than having my wife’s wet,” He kissed your shoulder as he pressed his thigh against your slit with every word that followed, “naked, soft, inviting body on full display?” 

“Alastor, I didn’t-” 

“Don’t lie to me,” Alastor pulled your hips forward, grinding your cunt against his thigh. “You think I can’t feel your slick? I know that’s not water. I’m going to give you exactly what you wanted.” 

The dark promise in his voice had your core clinching against nothing. Delicate muscles twitched as a soft moan fell from your lips. Blunt nails ran down your sides as he smiled down at you. Fingers dug into the fat at your thighs as he simultaneously lifted you off your feet and pinned your hips against the wall. 

On reflex, you wrapped your legs around him. Shower spray pelted your legs as you struggled to grip his wet body. His hands seemed to have no issue holding onto you though. 

He ran his cock through your folds, gathering the slick and lubricating himself. Each pass over your clit had you arching, gasping and rocking into him as you sought more friction. There wasn’t much you could do though, pinned to the shower wall as you were. It was just how he wanted you, at his mercy. 

“Alastor,” you whined his name. 

“Just hold onto me,” he said as he lined the head of his cock up with your entrance. You tensed in his arms. “Just relax, this is what you wanted.” 

He breached your entrance slowly. You spread around the fat head of his cock little by little as the unrelenting pressure left your body no choice. Pleasurable pain spread through you as he sank deeper and deeper within you. He was large and your body struggled to accommodate him without preparations. 

A shuddering ran up his spine as he bottomed out, forcing you to take all of him in one long slow thrust. Unstretched and unprepared, your body gripped him, walls fluttering around his cock as they strained to accommodate his considerable size.

You clung to him, arching in his arms as he chuckled against your shoulder. His body was burning against yours in contrast with the cold wet tile. It felt good. 

Rocking his hips, he worked his cock through your walls, ensuing you were spread over ever bit of him, taking all he had inside your walls as if there had been any doubt before. You gasped and twitched with ever shift of him inside you. Once he felt you had relaxed enough, he upped slowly from your body, holding you in place with his hands. 

Though his entrance and withdraw had been slow, what followed was anything but. He plunged inside you with such speed and force that your lower back slammed against the tile. He held you in place as his hips slammed into you again and again. 

You could do nothing but hold onto him and hope the water didn’t cause his feet to slip or you to slide out of his grip. Again and again, the head of his cock kissed your cervix with each thrust. 

Gasps turned into moans as he shifted your hips and his, letting the head of his cock rub against the spongy nerves that caused your cunt to flood with slick anew. Your fingers slipped over his shoulders, nails struggling to find grip before winding into his hair. Numb fingers pulled at his wet hair, his broken name all you can say as the coil inside you begins to tighten under his expert touch. 

“So tight,” you can feel his lips move against your neck as he fucks into you savagely. 

“Alas… Alastor,” your head falls back against the tile with a thump that you don’t feel. You’re so close now, so very close. No longer can you feel the cooling spray of the water or the tile. The sound of the shower is lost to you.

All you can feel is your husband’s body pressed against you, the grip he has on your thighs and his cock slamming into you again and again. All you can hear is his breath washing over you, soft praises whispered between moans and the music of his wet body meeting yours. 

With each powerful thrust, you could feel the twitch of his cock against your cervix. He was as close as you were. Knowing that you had the power to reduce the great radio host to rutting into you in the shower sent a thrill through you that was enough to push you over.

Your body clamped down around him as you came undone in his arms. The pull of your cunt trying to suck his cock deeper inside drew a long deep moan from him as his pace grew sloppy. A handful of thrusts later and he slammed himself inside, teeth latching onto your shoulder painfully tight as he tried to stifle moan that always came with his release. 

Rutting his hips into your twitching cunt to continue to stimulate himself, he refused to separate as his cock twitched and spasmed inside, seed shooting to paint your cervix with his essence and claim. 

As both your breathing calmed and he slowly began to soften, you unhooked your ankles from behind his back. His grip went slack, letting you stand on weak legs as his cock slipped out of you, leaving you feeling empty and sore but satisfied. At least for now. 

Alastor hummed as you settled against his chest, arms holding him in a light embrace. There was comfort in the sound of the popular tune and the sound of the shower spray. His strong hands rubbed suds into your body, lulling you further into relaxation. He washed your hair with tender care before allowing you to assist him with his own cleaning. 

Sitting you on the edge of the tub, he dried you with the same tender care. No one would believe he was the same man that so roughly, so quickly took you in the shower. As he rubbed the water from your hair, he tilted your head up and placed a soft chase kiss upon your sleepy lips. 

“I love you,” he said, smile as soft as his words. 

“I love you, too.” 

“Let’s get you to bed my Dear, so I can get back to work.” 

~~~~~<3 TagList: @catticora, @alastor-simp

[renthony]

About & Pinned Post

(Updated January 14, 2025)

Hi! I'm Ren Basel. My pronouns are they/them and I'm in my 30s. I I post a lot of things related to art, media studies, animation, and union organizing. I'm married to @natalieironside and @kryptidkhaos, and @dovesndecay is my drift-compatible right-hand queerplatonic lifemate. If you follow one of us, you'll see the other three.

I write essays about media and pop culture, I wrote a short fantasy story called The Queen of Cups, and I'm currently working on both the first chapter of a graphic novel project and a video essay script for a queer analysis of the show BoJack Horseman. The best way to keep up with & support my projects is Patreon--I post free updates as well as subscriber-only.

I have a Discord server for artists of all sorts to chat, share their work, and self-promo. If you're an artsy person, or just like supporting artsy people, come join us! I tend to be a bit of a lurker on Discord, but I'm trying to be a bit more active.

I run a small candle shop with my husband, which you can follow here on tumblr as @candlesandcantrips. I also run the Covid-Safe Cosplay blog, @covidsafecosplay, along with the accompanying Discord Server.

I'm a broke, disabled, small-time queer artist who pays rent via a combination of countless different side hustles. You know how it is. If you like what I post and want to help me keep groceries in the cabinet:

Ko-Fi

PayPal: renniequeer@gmail.com

Venmo: @ renniequeer

CashApp: $renniequeer

I also have a wishlist that I keep updated with things I need for work, household projects, and a few things just for fun. My family has a group wishlist for things we could all use.

Thanks for reading, and have a great day!

[cognithtechnology]

What Is Server-Side Scripting? A Beginner’s Guide to Dynamic Websites

Learn how server-side scripting powers dynamic websites by handling requests and delivering personalized content. Explore its role in web development without the technical jargon.

[komaedalovemail]

komaedas have you tried straw.page?

(i hope you don't mind if i make a big ollllle webdev post off this!)

i have never tried straw.page but it looks similar to carrd and other WYSIWYG editors (which is unappealing to me, since i know html/css/js and want full control of the code. and can't hide secrets in code comments.....)

my 2 cents as a web designer is if you're looking to learn web design or host long-term web projects, WYSIWYG editors suck doodooass. you don't learn the basics of coding, someone else does it for you! however, if you're just looking to quickly host images, links to your other social medias, write text entries/blogposts, WYSIWYG can be nice.

toyhouse, tumblr, deviantart, a lot of sites implement WYSIWYG for their post editors as well, but then you can run into issues relying on their main site features for things like the search system, user profiles, comments, etc. but it can be nice to just login to your account and host your information in one place, especially on a platform that's geared towards that specific type of information. (toyhouse is a better example of this, since you have a lot of control of how your profile/character pages look, even without a premium account) carrd can be nice if you just want to say "here's where to find me on other sites," for example. but sometimes you want a full website!

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neocities hosting

currently, i host my website on neocities, but i would say the web2.0sphere has sucked some doodooass right now and i'm fiending for something better than it. it's a static web host, e.g. you can upload text, image, audio, and client-side (mostly javascript and css) files, and html pages. for the past few years, neocities' servers have gotten slower and slower and had total blackouts with no notices about why it's happening... and i'm realizing they host a lot of crypto sites that have crypto miners that eat up a ton of server resources. i don't think they're doing anything to limit bot or crypto mining activity and regular users are taking a hit.

↑ page 1 on neocitie's most viewed sites we find this site. this site has a crypto miner on it, just so i'm not making up claims without proof here. there is also a very populated #crypto tag on neocities (has porn in it tho so be warned...).

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dynamic/server-side web hosting

$5/mo for neocities premium seems cheap until you realize... The Beautiful World of Server-side Web Hosting!

client-side AKA static web hosting (neocities, geocities) means you can upload images, audio, video, and other files that do not interact with the server where the website is hosted, like html, css, and javascript. the user reading your webpage does not send any information to the server like a username, password, their favourite colour, etc. - any variables handled by scripts like javascript will be forgotten when the page is reloaded, since there's no way to save it to the web server. server-side AKA dynamic web hosting can utilize any script like php, ruby, python, or perl, and has an SQL database to store variables like the aforementioned that would have previously had nowhere to be stored.

there are many places in 2024 you can host a website for free, including: infinityfree (i use this for my test websites :B has tons of subdomains to choose from) [unlimited sites, 5gb/unlimited storage], googiehost [1 site, 1gb/1mb storage], freehostia [5 sites/1 database, 250mb storage], freehosting [1 site, 10gb/unlimited storage]

if you want more features like extra websites, more storage, a dedicated e-mail, PHP configuration, etc, you can look into paying a lil shmoney for web hosting: there's hostinger (this is my promocode so i get. shmoney. if you. um. 🗿🗿🗿) [$2.40-3.99+/mo, 100 sites/300 databases, 100gb storage, 25k visits/mo], a2hosting [$1.75-12.99+/mo, 1 site/5 databases, 10gb/1gb storage], and cloudways [$10-11+/mo, 25gb/1gb]. i'm seeing people say to stay away from godaddy and hostgator. before you purchase a plan, look up coupons, too! (i usually renew my plan ahead of time when hostinger runs good sales/coupons LOL)

here's a big webhost comparison chart from r/HostingHostel circa jan 2024.

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domain names

most of the free website hosts will give you a subdomain like yoursite.has-a-cool-website-69.org, and usually paid hosts expect you to bring your own domain name. i got my domain on namecheap (enticing registration prices, mid renewal prices), there's also porkbun, cloudflare, namesilo, and amazon route 53. don't use godaddy or squarespace. make sure you double check the promo price vs. the actual renewal price and don't get charged $120/mo when you thought it was $4/mo during a promo, certain TLDs (endings like .com, .org, .cool, etc) cost more and have a base price (.car costs $2,300?!?). look up coupons before you purchase these as well!

namecheap and porkbun offer something called "handshake domains," DO NOT BUY THESE. 🤣🤣🤣 they're usually cheaper and offer more appealing, hyper-specific endings like .iloveu, .8888, .catgirl, .dookie, .gethigh, .♥, .❣, and .✟. I WISH WE COULD HAVE THEM but they're literally unusable. in order to access a page using a handshake domain, you need to download a handshake resolver. every time the user connects to the site, they have to provide proof of work. aside from it being incredibly wasteful, you LITERALLY cannot just type in the URL and go to your own website, you need to download a handshake resolver, meaning everyday internet users cannot access your site.

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hosting a static site on a dynamic webhost

you can host a static (html/css/js only) website on a dynamic web server without having to learn PHP and SQL! if you're coming from somewhere like neocities, the only thing you need to do is configure your website's properties. your hosting service will probably have tutorials to follow for this, and possibly already did some steps for you. you need to point the nameserver to your domain, install an SSL certificate, and connect to your site using FTP for future uploads. FTP is a faster, alternative way to upload files to your website instead of your webhost's file upload system; programs like WinSCP or FileZilla can upload using FTP for you.

if you wanna learn PHP and SQL and really get into webdev, i wrote a forum post at Mysidia Adoptables here, tho it's sorted geared at the mysidia script library itself (Mysidia Adoptables is a free virtual pet site script, tiny community. go check it out!)

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file storage & backups

a problem i have run into a lot in my past like, 20 years of internet usage (/OLD) is that a site that is free, has a small community, and maybe sounds too good/cheap to be true, has a higher chance of going under. sometimes this happens to bigger sites like tinypic, photobucket, and imageshack, but for every site like that, there's like a million of baby sites that died with people's files. host your files/websites on a well-known site, or at least back it up and expect it to go under!

i used to host my images on something called "imgjoe" during the tinypic/imageshack era, it lasted about 3 years, and i lost everything hosted on there. more recently, komaedalovemail had its webpages hosted here on tumblr, and tumblr changed its UI so custom pages don't allow javascript, which prevented any new pages from being edited/added. another test site i made a couple years ago on hostinger's site called 000webhost went under/became a part of hostinger's paid-only plans, so i had to look very quickly for a new host or i'd lose my test site.

if you're broke like me, looking into physical file storage can be expensive. anything related to computers has gone through baaaaad inflation due to crypto, which again, I Freaquing Hate, and is killing mother nature. STOP MINING CRYPTO this is gonna be you in 1 year

...um i digress. ANYWAYS, you can archive your websites, which'll save your static assets on The Internet Archive (which could use your lovely donations right now btw), and/or archive.today (also taking donations). having a webhost service with lots of storage and automatic backups can be nice if you're worried about file loss or corruption, or just don't have enough storage on your computer at home!

if you're buying physical storage, be it hard drive, solid state drive, USB stick, whatever... get an actual brand like Western Digital or Seagate and don't fall for those cheap ones on Amazon that claim to have 8,000GB for $40 or you're going to spend 13 days in windows command prompt trying to repair the disk and thenthe power is gong to go out in your shit ass neighvborhood and you have to run it tagain and then Windows 10 tryes to update and itresets the /chkdsk agin while you're awayfrom town nad you're goig to start crytypting and kts just hnot going tot br the same aever agai nikt jus not ggiog to be the saeme

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further webhosting options

there are other Advanced options when it comes to web hosting. for example, you can physically own and run your own webserver, e.g. with a computer or a raspberry pi. r/selfhosted might be a good place if you're looking into that!

if you know or are learning PHP, SQL, and other server-side languages, you can host a webserver on your computer using something like XAMPP (Apache, MariaDB, PHP, & Perl) with minimal storage space (the latest version takes up a little under 1gb on my computer rn). then, you can test your website without needing an internet connection or worrying about finding a hosting plan that can support your project until you've set everything up!

there's also many PHP frameworks which can be useful for beginners and wizards of the web alike. WordPress is one which you're no doubt familiar with for creating blog posts, and Bluehost is a decent hosting service tailored to WordPress specifically. there's full frameworks like Laravel, CakePHP, and Slim, which will usually handle security, user authentication, web routing, and database interactions that you can build off of. Laravel in particular is noob-friendly imo, and is used by a large populace, and it has many tutorials, example sites built with it, and specific app frameworks.

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addendum: storing sensitive data

if you decide to host a server-side website, you'll most likely have a login/out functionality (user authentication), and have to store things like usernames, passwords, and e-mails. PLEASE don't launch your website until you're sure your site security is up to snuff!

when trying to check if your data is hackable... It's time to get into the Mind of a Hacker. OWASP has some good cheat sheets that list some of the bigger security concerns and how to mitigate them as a site owner, and you can look up filtered security issues on the Exploit Database.

this is kind of its own topic if you're coding a PHP website from scratch; most frameworks securely store sensitive data for you already. if you're writing your own PHP framework, refer to php.net's security articles and this guide on writing an .htaccess file.

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but. i be on that phone... :(

ok one thing i see about straw.page that seems nice is that it advertises the ability to make webpages from your phone. WYSIWYG editors in general are more capable of this. i only started looking into this yesterday, but there ARE source code editor apps for mobile devices! if you have a webhosting plan, you can download/upload assets/code from your phone and whatnot and code on the go. i downloaded Runecode for iphone. it might suck ass to keep typing those brackets.... we'll see..... but sometimes you're stuck in the car and you're like damn i wanna code my site GRRRR I WANNA CODE MY SITE!!!

↑ code written in Runecode, then uploaded to Hostinger. Runecode didn't tell me i forgot a semicolon but Hostinger did... i guess you can code from your webhost's file uploader on mobile but i don't trust them since they tend not to autosave or prompt you before closing, and if the wifi dies idk what happens to your code.

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ANYWAYS! HAPPY WEBSITE BUILDING~! HOPE THIS HELPS~!~!~!

-Mod 12 @eeyes

[manias-wordcount]

Hi, can I request a love triangle between Rin and Yukio, with a female reader.

I hope you have a nice day.

Dress to Embarrass (Yukio Okumura x Reader x Rin Okumura)

𝗔/𝗡: 𝗜 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝘁𝘄𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝘀𝗼 𝗶 𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗯𝗼𝘁𝗵 𝗲𝗻𝗷𝗼𝘆!

𝙒𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚? ⇒ 𝙈𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩

𝙟𝙤𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙧𝙙 𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚𝙧?

𝙗𝙪𝙮 𝙢𝙚 𝙖 𝙘𝙤𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙚?

You’ve always had a hard time adjusting to this job. 

The very prospect of it was embarrassing. The uniform- which you always found to be very cute- had long since become a nuisance to put on, given all the negative attention it garnered. The voices and the script you had to stick to- they were just too shameless at times. Even after you learned how to keep yourself from grimacing every time you had to say “Master~”, it still didn’t prevent you from cringing internally, wondering if this is really the best-paying job in the area that doesn’t require any prior experience. And worst of all, there was the chance of someone seeing you here. 

Someone who you would recognize. Someone who would recognize you.

You know that many of your friends wouldn’t be interested in this type of thing. You even know a few people who are deeply frustrated with the concept of Maid Cafes because of all the horror stories floating around about how the girls are usually treated. But you’re mostly worried about the few who were shameless enough to admit that they’ve been wanting to go to Maid Cafe for a while. You were mostly worried that they would finally work up the courage and would somehow end up at your store, on a day that you were working, during one of your shifts, with you as their server. Because with the amount of luck you’ve had in life, you knew it was all too possible. You knew it was all too likely to happen. In fact, in your mind, it was always a matter of when and who, rather than just what if. But honestly?

If you knew these two were going to be the ones to catch you right in the act…

“I- I- I….uh…”

…you would have never even touched the job application.

At the current moment, you’re struggling to find your words as your eyes dart back and forth between the two brothers who were sitting in your section. In the back of your mind, you can sense some part of you- the one who desperately needs the full paycheck this month and not a dollar less- screaming at yourself to get back on track and at least say your opening line. But the second you walked up and realized that the two cute boys you were sort of hoping would be sitting in your section were the Okumura twins, your brain began to short-circuit. Judging by the way Rin had yet to stop staring at you or close his mouth, it looked like his brain had likely short-circuited too. Just your luck.

“I...uh…” You open your mouth and try speaking again. But your words still refuse to come out as your eye two brothers sit in front of you. On one side of the table, there’s Yukio- one of your teachers. He’s dressed in his exorcist overcoat with his glasses pushed all the way up the bridge of his nose. From where he’s currently sitting, you can’t see much of his expression other than the straight line his lips have been set in and light pink blush dusting his cheeks. It doesn’t help that his glasses have managed to catch the glare from this angle, making it impossible to read the look in his eyes. 

Though if you were him, seeing a girl you currently teach do something as embarrassing as dress up in a costume and call other people “Master~” and “Madam~” for cash would have you feeling all sorts of conflicted feelings. 

That said, you suppose he’s currently in the same boat as you are right now. Because it’s one thing for you to be working here- you at least have the excuse of pay being really good. But it’s an entirely different thing for him to be caught here, seemingly willingly going to a Maid Cafe and sitting down for a meal. The straight-edge, tight-laced Yukio you know and love would have never been caught here.  

Though you can’t say the complete same about his brother…

On the other side of the table, sits Rin- your friend and classmate and Yukio’s equally good-looking older brother- with a menu gripped tight in his hands. You notice right away that he’s also still in his school uniform, likely having just come from cram school lessons with Yukio. However as always, his tie is loosened and his uniform seems sloppily put together in a way that presents to people an attitude of not simply not caring about appearance, authority, and blending in with society. Though, you know him well enough to know that he’s probably the biggest softie and sweetheart you’ll ever meet. Meaning that you always found it unlikely to see him in one of these places, but not impossible. But at least you know you can count on him to be one of your more endearing guests, rather than worst behaved. Hopefully, anyways

Either way, that’s why you’re slow to snap at him for staring at you for so long. You know what feels like to be ogled at. You also know what it’s like to walk up to a customer who you know that you’ll have to have thrown out of the establishment before they’ve reached the end of their ninety minutes. 

But for some reason, you have a funny feeling that his wide-eyed, open-mouth stare has a lot more to do with the fact that he’s suddenly seeing you here at the job you were so tight-lipped about and less to do with how flattering this dress is around your chest. Call it a hunch, but his eyes being trained on your face and not anywhere lower gives you a lot of coincidence in the boy. Well, that, and you swear you can hear his tail starting to thwump repeatedly against his back like a little overexcited puppy, happy to see his friends. If you weren’t stuck in this painfully embarrassing situation you would have been over the moon at the cute display coming from the guy with usually the toughest exterior. 

But you are. You’re stuck here. 

“...so this is why you’ve had to switch to the remedial lessons…”

In your own, personal, maid-cafe-themed hell.

The question that Yukio suddenly voices after you stammer off into the awkward silence (that the three of you were basking in for far too long of a time) is the very thing that manages to break you out of your stupor after what feels like hours of stuttering in front of them. You’re thankful for the question because, without him, you could only imagine how long it would take for you and Rin to get ahold of yourselves. However, it doesn’t exactly mean that you’re happy to see him. You’re not exactly happy to see his brother either. At least not at the moment.

“Oh, um…yeah,” You answer lamely. At this point, you don’t see any purpose in trying to recover and play up your assigned maid persona. “...my shift is usually right after school so I can’t be in class with all the others. Yeah…”

You trail off quietly, facing starting burning with embarrassment. Luckily, Yukio seems to accept your answer quite easily and makes no moves to push you into any more questions. Though, you suppose it helps that he’s currently seeing in front of his table with a notepad and a maid dress that’s a little on the shorter side. 

“I see…” The younger of the two brothers answers, his eyes still hidden by the glasses' glare. You still find it impossible to read exactly what he’s thinking at the moment, but you’ve found that his blush has only seemed to have darkened over time. A clear indicator of…something. Embarrassment? Shame? Attraction? You don’t want to know and you honestly don’t even want to think about it. All you know now is that even the very tips of his ears are red, despite his mostly passive expression. Instinctively, you find yourself shifting nervously in front of them, opting to tug down the skirt of your dress in a last-ditch effort to save some of what little dignity you have left. Though the action was futile. It was meaningless.

Because that sudden movement managed to knock Rin out of his own stupor. And just like that, you had another mess on your hands. 

“Since when did you-?” Instantly, Rin’s voice raises to a high-pitched shout as he points to you- a bright red blush covering his own cheeks. Honestly, you know you should have expected this type of over-the-top reaction from him. But could you blame a girl for being caught off guard?   “And you just-?! And that dress-!”

Before Rin is able to finish what you could only imagine to be a rather tactless comment, his brother reaches over the table and grabs at his collar. A hissed call of the older’s name and an order for him to knock it off is likely very thinly with a threat that Yukio hardly even needs to include. But Rin is still busy gaping at you, blushing hard and pointing even harder as he struggles to voice his thoughts coherently. 

At this point, you’re really starting to feel the pressure of being caught in a rock. And there’s little more to do than sigh and think about what you’re going to have to say on the inevitable incident report you’ll have to fill out based on all the ruckus going on between the two brothers (who had gone from beating around the bush about your maid dress to outright insulting each other and claiming entitlement to be the first to do…something you can’t even be bothered to listen to right now, honestly). 

Sure, you’ve always had a hard time adjusting to this job. You were constantly put in embarrassing positions and made to say and do embarrassing things while dealing with some form of harassment from a guest on nearly every shift. But you knew about this when you walked in and filled out the paperwork. Just like how you ultimately knew that eventually, someone you knew was going to find out what your job was. But, as much as you love them…

“It’s not like you can even do anything! You’re her teacher!”

“And you’re on death row! Who would want that?!”

…did it have to be the Okumura Brothers?

[coffeegnomee]

Devotions though, I'm back thinking about Spoke's video. When Spoke told them he was scripting the dupe war with parrot: Zam's devastating "it's scripted" filled with all the disappointment, sorrow, betrayal, devastation that those two words could be filled with.

Mapicc's "I'd rather be banned than this be scripted".

This is why they're them. This is why everyone looks at them with a healthy little bit of fear, unsure what move they will make. (Zy's post about mapicc got me thinking about this.)

Bc imo it's this. This pure and purified distain for scripting.

Mapicc will exploit/cheat/go too far/murder before questions to stop a scripted story: to stop someone from dominating a story with their own plan without getting the input from the team. He will do that sporadic shit if it makes sense to him. And it really only has to make sense to him. Your script be damned.

Zam's incessant figure-it-out-as-he-goes mentality towards the story. Staying consistent with the character but always reassessing, always rethinking, always being moved by the narrative that others present.

It makes both of them incredibly consistent but also incredibly erratic for the other members.

And especially with like mawn, mapicc just going for the plan with no plan just an outline maybe. taking the conversations, making assumptions, doing things and seeing what happens. And then he gets blindsided by this mentality from zam as well where he thought zam would join or oppose but zam just chose.. sitting out. And for reasons that made perfect sense to himself.

fuck it, i'll write it in this post: both have this very particular way of making videos on lifesteal.

There's two general categories of lifesteal videos:

get the idea to happen on the server and the video is about making it happen, culminating in the success. Generally they go until they make it happen no matter how long it takes.

have an idea at the start the video, and see where it goes, ending wherever makes sense.

Devotions hit that second category more often than not. Mapicc still does the first occasionally, but mawn is a great example of it. The oath is another. The joker, abyss, castle (from both sides), even dupe war from their pov. The dupe was already a sure thing when they started the video, what progressed was what they did with it.

They both so fully embrace the wildness that is unscripted mcrp in a way that goes beyond a lot of the members, even as, obv, unscripted is the law of lifesteal.

Cause like, wormhole is a fantastic example of the first. And the "problem" (difficulty) with it is you don't really have a video if it never happens. So you veer closer and closer to making it happen at any cost.

It's also interesting to think of Leo's trapping Flame video as the first, especially as, for that type of video, his first traps had to fail for the video's progression, but then it got out of hand and he went for the void and an end crystal used in dubiously illegal ways. But the video could not end until Flame died.

Flame's 10v1 is another example of the first. And mapicc went *nope* and objected to Flame thinking it would be that easy to force the server around when it got a little difficult (planning is difficult).

I love both categories fr. but its so interesting to look at the videos and the server because on so many levels, the narrative that bounces around the members is "if I can figure out the video idea, i get what they're doing", which works perfectly for the first, but with the second, and we've literally seen this so much with s5, with the second it's like, okay I get the video idea; why are you still doing it. And the reasoning is so much more hidden and not understood from the outside even though from the inside it's the most logical and obvious series of events.

And what is most fun is how the death star was 1 and then became 2. And the second it shifted from "i will make a death star" into "we made a death star and it didn't work: what next?" was precisely the moment Mane could not understand why Minute would take the 1v1. Because this type of video is not about the results, it's about the journey. It's about standing up for what you believe in. It's about seeing how people react.

And all of that leads to a player who is confusing and unknown and a little bit scary. Who might just end the world, or maybe just your world.

[bluejayblueskies]

The Heat is On | NikNak22

[ID: Six photographs of a hand-bound book. The book has printed paper covers on the front and back, and the spine is bound in copper cloth. The front cover and spine have the book title, The Heat is On, and author name, NikNak22, on them. The front and back covers both have images of painted flames on them, and the back cover additionally has the summary, binder logo, and a QR code to the fic. The title on the front cover is in a large blocky font with flames within it, and the author name is in a script font. The book is also photographed from the top down, showing a black and orange sewn endband and black and orange splattered edges. There are two photographs of the interior of the book, showing the title page and a chapter title page. The title page has the book title and author name in the same fonts as the front cover atop a stylized image of smoke. The chapter title page has a decorative flame icon along the lefthand side of the righthand page, and the chapter text bends around it. The chapter title is in a script font. /End ID]

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All giftees have received their copies, so I can finally post about one of my last bookbinding projects of 2024! It was an absolute pleasure to bind @knickknacksandallthat's fic The Heat is On for the @renegadeguild 2024 bookbinding exchange. This was my first All for the Game bind and it certainly will not be my last, as binding this fic catapulted me into the world of AFTG fics at high speed and I have several others that have already made their way onto my to-bind list.

I had a lot of fun running with the fire theme for this fic, and I had such a vivid idea for a printed cover that it prompted me to try out a three-piece bradel bind for the first time. I'm super stoked with how it turned out, and I'm definitely going to be doing more of this binding style in the future! Overall, this was probably my favorite bind of 2024, and I'm so thankful to the author for giving me permission to bind it, to my giftee for requesting it, and to the Renegade server and its mods for once again hosting this exchange! (It's hands-down my favorite event of the year 💜)