iโll marry you with paper rings || k.mg
โAND IโLL MARRY YOU EVEN WITH PAPER RINGSโ
PAIRING || Mingyu x Female Reader
GENRES ||ย Best Friends To Lovers AU, Fluff, Angst, Childhood Friends To Lovers AU, Slow Burn, Love Triangle (not exactly), Marriage Pact AU, Humour
SUMMARY || When the two of you were little, you and Mingyu had made a marriage pact, agreeing to marry each other if both of you remained single till thirty. Of course, it was just a joke between the two of you and you both went about in your own ways, the silly promise pretty much forgotten. You soon had a huge list of ex-boyfriends and it became a routine for Mingyu to be your human tissue after each breakup. It was a tiresome job, taking care of you, but if the said best friend in love with you didnโt do it, who would? ย
Or, in which, even twenty years later, Kim Mingyu finds himself running to your every beck and call, despite telling himself he wonโt fall for you anymore. ย
WARNINGS || minors dni, swearing lots of swearing, alcohol consumption, wonwoo is an ass (sometimes), mingyuโs friend circle bullies him because what even is new, reader has a obsessive ex, down bad gyu (and yes this is a warning), switch!mingyu, switch!reader, soft sex its more of making love so there arenโt really any dynamics, unprotected sex (do not do this), pet names for both (love, baby, angel, princess, sir), riding, sofa sex. [let me know if i missed anything pls]
WORD COUNT ||ย 28.3k (what happened here-)
A/N || OMG ITS FINALLY HERE. AFTER 8 MONTHS OF TURMOIL, 8 MONTHS OF HATING IT AND LOVING IT, HAVING A WRITERS BLOCK AND CRYING OVER IT ITS FINALLY HERE. This was a huuuuge journey to write this and I hope you guys enjoy it because this fic is truly my baby that I raised. Special thanks to @wonumatics for helping me with the fic (and also making a cameo) and @thepoopdokyeomtouchedโ .
TAGLIST || @alyssngโ @shiningstar-byulxxโ @ashkuuuuโ @venuspradaโ @macaronihahaโ @jyiiscoolโ @sanniekookโ @obaebarbsโ @springdaybreaksโ @just-here-to-read-01โ @hoshipillsโ @jhornytrashโ @jeonnyreadโ @zgzgzhโ @neuvilovedโ @hoeforcheolโ @sahazzyโ @lightprincess-worldโ @watermelon-sugars-thingsโ @idubutilyโ @meowmeowminnieโ โ@raindroponme-onme @nishlovesโ @cosmic-w0lfโ @gyulfriendโ @youre-on-your-ownkidโ @neocarat17 @bias-recsโ @bmkgemzโ @fragmentof-indifferenceโ @peachytokki @hanicoreโ @winterbeartaehyungbestboyโ @toshijimafarmsโ @hyneyedfizโ @weebotakuboyโ @angelfeverdreamโ @aaniagโ @thepoopdokyeomtouchedโ @caramyisabitchforsvtandbtsโ @sea-moon-starโ @jjeongddolโ @k-drama-adictโ @mnstxmnbbโ [if you want to be added to my taglist please fill in this form!]
๐๐๐. ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐
โMingoo.โ
The boy ignored your words as he continued with his drawing, hoping you would stop calling him and get back to your own work. The two of you had been drawing and colouring since morning so it wasnโt really surprising to him that you were already bored, but his art teacher had claimed that he wouldnโt be able to draw well since he was left-handed and he was determined to prove her wrong.ย
โMingoo. Mingoo! Look at me!โ
โMingooโ looked exasperatedly at you, clearly unamused by your antics. You had placed the entire colour pencil box on your head, balancing it as you tried climbing up the arms of the sofa where the two of you were seated. No sooner had you lifted a leg, your whole body shook and the pencil box came crashing down, spilling its content everywhere.
โHey!โ
You had begun to laugh but immediately stopped when you saw how upset he was. Sitting down beside him, you gave him a sad pout as you gently patted his back.
โWhatโs wrong, Mingoo?โ
โI told you not to call me that! Just call me Mingyu!โ He huffed, going back to his drawing.
You rolled your eyes but you were sure he didnโt even notice it, considering how immersed he was in his drawing. โFine, Mingyu. Just so you know, Mingoo is much cuter! Whatโs bothering you?โย
Mingyu didnโt respond right away, which just confirmed your suspicions that he was very, very upset. And when he did look at you finally, his lower lip was quivering as though he was on the verge of tears.
โMy- my art teacher told me I canโt draw!โ The very first tear drop fell as he sniffled, trying very hard to control his tears. You looked at him confused, not sure what he was talking about since Mingyu was clearly the best artist you had seen in your life (however short it was).
โWhat are you talking about? Why canโt you draw? You draw amazing.โ
โShe said since Iโm a leftie I canโt draw!โ
โThatโs because she is just jealous that a six year old draws better than her. I think you are the best artist Iโve ever seen.โ
โYou havenโt even- you havenโt even seen that many artists.โ Mingyu mumbled, rubbing his eyes as he felt the sadness in his heart reduce a little. You rolled your eyes once more (he had come to notice that you seemed to really love rolling your eyes at him) before poking his cheeks once.
โDonโt need to. I just know you are the best.โ
โReally?โ
โMingoo.โ This time he groaned at the nickname. โI think you are the best at everything. You are the best person Iโve ever met.โ
โYou are just six. You couldnโt have met that many people, could you?โ
โYou are underestimating my social skills. But the point is, according to me, you are the bestest person I know, and thatโs why you are my best friend.โ
He snorted. โIt sounds like you are convincing me to get married to you.โ
You gasped at that, and for a second Mingyu was worried he had said something scandalous (it didnโt feel right to him that you would be troubled by this when you used the word โidiotโ many times, which was a pretty bad word according to his mom).ย
โThatโs it!โ You clapped your hand in excitement and something told Mingyu you were going to suggest the most scandalous thing he had ever heard from you. โLetโs get married!โ
โLikeโฆnow?โ
โNo, you idiot!โ He winced as you slapped his arm lightly, though he wasnโt sure if it was because you hit him or because you had sworn again. Maybe it was time to tell your mom that you were always using bad words. โWe canโt get married now, so if we are still single till thirty, letโs get married then!โ
โW-why, though?โ He asked, rubbing his arms gently. Not that he was opposed to this idea. Mingyu thought you were a great friend, you were his best friend after all, and to be honest, in his eyes you were pretty enough (he didnโt have much girl friends unfortunately). But he wasnโt sure why you had suggested this idea suddenly.
You just shrugged. โNo reason. Itโs just that Iโve seen many movies where the best friends get married because no one wants to marry them.โ
โThey sound desperate to me.โ
โSo will you be, if you donโt get a girlfriend by thirty.โ You snickered and that got Mingyu actually wondering. Would he actually never get a girlfriend? Now that he thought about it more, he realised that maybe your plan wasnโt that bad.ย
โSure then. Letโs get married if we are still single by thirty.โ
You raised your pinky finger to him and he immediately entwined it with his,ย both of your thumbs brushing against each other as you smiled at him, causing him to mirror your grin.
โPinky promise that weโll get married if we are still single when we reach thirty?โ
โPromise.โ He whispered.
โOh, by the way, Mingyu?โ
โHmmm?โ
โYou are going to be the worldโs greatest artist.โย
Mingyu rotated the pen in his hand as he absentmindedly stared outside the window. He could faintly hear the teacher teaching something about the different divisions in the animal kingdom but he had no interest in it whatsoever (after learning about the different excretory systems of insects, he had lost interest in biology all together). Through his seat, he could see the school ground and being on the lower floor didnโt help the fact he could recognise all the students who were playing out right now, making him wish he was there instead of his current location inside the sweltering, hot classroom.ย
No one had warned him that middle school would be this boring but after being put in different sections, his school life seemed to have considerably dulled without you. Seventh grade wasnโt supposed to be this lifeless, was it?
He could see your little running form going in circles around the field and he automatically felt a smile tug at his lips. You looked so funny, with that annoyed expression on your face as you struggled to complete your laps. Mingyu dearly wished he had his camera with him, just to click a picture of you in this haggard form and pin it up in his bedroom wall just to tease you.
Just as he was thinking of the million different ways he could embarrass you, he heard his name being called sharply, snapping him out of his train of thoughts.
โKim Mingyu!โ
He jerked up straight to see his biology teacher glaring daggers at him, hand clutching the duster as though he was ready to throw it on Mingyu the second he answered the question wrong.
โEr,โ he stood up awkwardly, eyes darting to the board to search for anything, just anything related to the question, anything that would give him enough hint as to where they were.
Suddenly his eyes landed on Boo Seungkwan who was sitting on the first bench, the extremely talkative boy Mingyu had recently befriended, and to his relief, Seungkwan mouthed him the question.
What are the four divisions of phylum arthropoda?
โUh right, um, arthropoda is divided into arachnida, myriapoda, insectae and crustaceans.โย
The teacher looked slightly annoyed that he had got it right but nonetheless motioned Mingyu to sit down. Letting out a silent sigh, he sat down and looked out of the window, searching for you. His eyes immediately landed on your figure as you and your friends stood in circles for dodgeball, causing him to smile once again knowing you were horrible at the game.
It was funny to him how easily he always noticed you even amongst a huge sea of students. He was always the first one to catch your eyes at the morning assembly and he could always spot you in the canteen during lunch despite the huge strength of students. It was like you stood out the most amongst everyone, and yet at the same time, there wasnโt really anything that special about you.
Thank god he remembered this chapter though he had studied this almost five days ago. Mingyu had finally come to believe that he had, what you called, a โsexy brainโ. It kind of embarrassed him how much you always threw that compliment around him whenever the two of you were studying, but for some reason he didnโt stop you.ย
He just liked it a lot when you complimented him.
The bell finally rang after what felt like hours, indicating that it was the lunch break. Mingyu turned towards the window to see you disappearing into the school building one last time, before he began packing his books into his bag.
โDude, why do you stare out of the window so much?โย
He looked up to see Seokmin leaning on his desk, his usual gentle smile on his face as he waited for him to answer. Mingyu could see the curiosity behind his eyes so he just shook his head.
โNo reason. Itโs just better than studying bio, to be honest.โ
โOh, yeah?โ He asked, peeping out of the window too. Seungkwan came and joined the two of them, having overheard the conversation. โAre you sure it isnโt to just check out the section A girls?โ
For some reason, Mingyu felt heat creep into his cheeks as he glared at the smiling boy opposite to him, who was already laughing in a good natured way.
โThen what?โ Seungkwan snorted. โHis best friend is in that class.โ
โOh? Whatโs her name? Then you must be mad that the two of you got separated last year, right?โ
โItโs Y/N. Of course Iโm mad.โ He huffed, frowning at the very memory. His school had suddenly decided that from middle school girls and boys would be in completely different sections. He remembered whining about this to you because what was the point of studying in a co-ed school if he was separated from his best friend for silly reasons to which you had gently reminded him that you would be meeting at the canteen nonetheless. โWonโt you be angry if Joshua got put in a separate class, Seokmin?โ
Seokmin laughed once more. โOf course I would. But you look like you are ready to set the school on fire for this.โ
โYou see,โ Seungkwan spoke and Mingyu could already tell he was trying to add fuel to the fire from his expression. โThey both are really close. So of course Mingyu was pissed.โ
To this, Seokmin widened his eyes at Mingyu dramatically, clearly intrigued by this new piece of gossip. โOh? Is that so?โ
โItโs not what you both are thinking.โ Mingyu said firmly, finally zipping his bag shut. But one look at Seungkwan and Seokminโs mischievous smirk was enough to tell him that he had dug his own grave.
โAnd what are we thinking, Mingyu?โ
โYou think I have a crush on her.โ He said, his nostrils flaring. Mingyu could feel his ears turning red from the embarrassment but he wasnโt really sure why. What was so embarrassing about explaining his relationship with you, his best friend, to his friends? โOr that we might like each other. But we donโt. Not like that.โ
โUh huh whatever you say, lover boy.โ Seungkwan giggled before beckoning them to get out of the classroom. Mingyu rolled his eyes as he followed his friends out but it did nothing to stop his ears from burning up. Why was he so flustered?
The canteen was as usual crowded and the three of them lined up with their trays to get their food, when he felt his elbows hit someone else.
โOh my god, Iโm so sorry!โ Mingyu began, sure that his clumsiness had gotten him into trouble once again. But luckily, he was met by your annoyed expression (he never knew he could feel so much relief upon seeing you annoyed) as you rubbed your ribs gingerly.
โWatch where youโre going, boy. You could easily have taken off my head with that elbow of yours.โ
Mingyu snorted at your words, secretly glad that he was finally able to catch up with you in the canteen. โI bet I could. After all, who gets tired after running three laps?โ
โYou were watching me?โ You hissed, pretending to lift your tray to hit him. He laughed at you and felt his smile grow as you too smiled back at him.
โHe was watching you the entire time.โ Seungkwan said. Mingyu glared at the two of them but that didnโt stop Seokmin either.
โYeah, nearly got into trouble too, because of that. Thank god you knew the answer or else Park would have had your head for lunch today.โ
โYou werenโt listening to Park? You must have a death wish, Gyu.โย
All of a sudden Mingyu felt his stomach flip, causing him to stumble a little, his plate (now filled with food) nearly falling off his hand if it wasnโt for Seungkwan catching it with a hiss.ย
โWhatโs wrong with you?โ He hissed, carefully pulling Mingyu away from the crowd. The four of them looked at him concerned and he realised he must have looked shell shocked or something, seeing that they werenโt scolding him for his clumsy habits like usual.
To be honest, he felt shell shocked too. What was that? What was that sudden feeling that nearly threw him off his balance? When you had called him Gyu (Mingoo had evolved to Gyu because even you finally agreed; it was cringe), he had felt his stomach drop like he had been dropped from a great height. You had called him Gyu countless times before, and none of them had ever had such a dangerous effect on him before.
โMingyu?โ He heard your soft voice call him, and when you placed a gentle hand on his arm he turned to look at you. You were looking at him worriedly, and for some reason that made him feel even more light headed.
He felt the familiar heat rise up his cheeks and he immediately turned away, not wanting to look at you anymore.
โI- I think I need to go to the nurseโs room. I think Iโm a bit dehydrated.โ he said, deciding that he must have been feeling unwell. What else could be the reason for this sudden feeling? It was very hot after all and they did have an hour of physical education before biology. Maybe he hadnโt drunk enough water?
โOh, okay. Let me come with you-โ You began but he cut you off with a smile
โNo, Iโll go alone.โย
You looked taken aback for a second, but smiled back almost immediately, giving his arm a gentle pat. โAre you sure? What if you faint on the way?โ
โNo, Iโm not that unwell yet. Itโs okay, you guys have lunch. Iโll catch up with you later.โ Nodding at Seungkwan and Seokmin, he quickly ran out of the cafeteria, hoping no one was using the ice bag from the nurseโs room.ย
Now that he was finally away from the suffocating heat and loud buzz of the cafeteria, he wondered why he had refused you to take him to the medical room.ย
โCrap. How many days left for cram school to start?โ You asked, stuffing another handful of popcorn into your mouth. Your best friend looked at you in annoyance for asking the most useless question in between the movie, but nonetheless picked up his phone to check the date.
โTwo days. It starts this Saturday.โย
โFuck, weโve really got to make the most out of it Mingyu.โ
โI know. But you repeating it after every few minutes isnโt really making it better or making the day go slower. If anything, I can already feel the anxiety seeping in.โ
He heard you snort and mumble something about having it easy because of his sexy brain, and he felt a smile tug at the corner of his lips. The two of you were finally in high school, but there was nothing to rejoice about it by the number of extra classes you would have to attend. So here you were, idling away the two week summer vacation you had got, enjoying the โlast glories of our youthโ as you had called it.
Even though Mingyu knew the next four years were going to be a huge study overload (he could actually feel the anxiety seeping in now), he had never felt so relaxed in his entire life like he had in these two weeks.
The two of you had gone to amusement parks, done movie marathons and had even gone to the beach for a few days with both of your families. Even though he knew spending time with you was supposed to be memorable, he couldnโt help thinking that this time it had felt extra special.
He still couldnโt forget that warm feeling that had enveloped his chest when you had won one of the amusement park games and hugged him out of excitement, or the time when the two of you kept pushing each other at the sea until a huge wave crashed into the two of you, causing you to hold onto Mingyu as you both let out shrieks of laughter.
All of a sudden he realised that he had been getting this feeling of warmth whenever he was around you quite often off lately. Not to mention that one time his stomach dropped when you winked at him back at your fourteenth birthday.ย
Well, in his defence you looked gorgeous. Like in a way he hadnโt expected you to. Of course he knew you were pretty. Kim Mingyu wasnโt blind to all those love letters and chocolate boxes you got every Valentine's day. But he really hadnโt expected you to look so beautiful in that dress. Nor had he expected his heart to stutter like that when you showed him the dress, twirling in it.ย
Maybe it was because of the heat inside your bedroom due to all the closed windows and door or maybe it was because he was remembering those confusing emotions, but as Mingyu turned to look at you, he felt his heart stutter once more.
Your hands had a dusty orange on them from all those cheetos you had been munching on from earlier this evening, and your mouth was in an even worse condition. And yet, he felt warmth flood his chest when he realised he didnโt really care for your appearance. It didnโt really matter to him whether you had cheetos crumbs smeared on your lips or whether you were dancing in a beautiful evening gown.
Because you were, well you. You were Mingyuโs best friend of nine years and with someone he had shared every single memory with, be it a happy, sad or an embarrassing one. Of course he wouldnโt care about your appearance (hell, he had even seen you when you woke up after bawling your eyes out for the entire night) so why was this point coming to his mind now?
You were pretty and that was a fact. There was nothing to debate about it and yet here he was, not paying attention to the movie but wondering if all the guys who had chased you were aware of this side of you. Would they still ask you out? Would they still send you roses and chocolates during that time of the year?
He snorted at the very thought of how fake their affection towards you now felt. Mingyu was pretty sure they would run in the opposite direction if they saw you in this condition right now; wearing your old Melody pyjamas while eating chips in the most messy way ever.ย
But he would never do that (assuming there was a hypothetical situation where he had to date you, of course). Because this was what made you you and he loved you for that. Everything about you was perfect in his eyes, including your flaws and mistakes.
Which once again, made his heart to stutter erratically causing him to suck in a harsh breath.
You turned to him when you heard him suck in a breath, your smiling expression changing to that of concern.
โGyu? You okay?โ
โYeah I thinkโฆI think Iโve got a clogged artery.โ Maybe it was high time he talked to a cardiologist.ย
โDammit. Told you to cut down on those snacks.โ
โMe? Or you?โ He laughed, pointing at the heap of empty snack packets around you. You pushed all the packets to his side and he gave you his usual โdefeated smileโ, causing you to laugh once again.
Damn, you were really pretty when you laughed.
โOh but clogged arteries? Please Einstein, I bet you were thinking about a girl, werenโt you?โ
โWhat the hell? Where did that come from?โ He spluttered, taken aback by this sudden confrontation. You punched his arm lightly before wiggling your eyebrows at him (Mingyu made a mental point to ask Seungkwan to stop hanging out with you since you were clearly picking up his habits).
โMy dude, you clearly have a crush on someone. Why else would your heart be jumping like that?โ
โI donโt think I ever mentioned it was jumping?โ
โOh please. Iโve known you for so many years. I know whatโs going on inside your head.โ
Mingyu rolled his eyes. โI donโt have a crush on anyone, okay?โ
โThen why is your heart jumping like that?โ
โI told you it's not jumping-โ
โThe only explanation is that you have a crush on someone.โ You winked, causing him to groan. Letting out a laugh you patted his shoulder gently, letting him know you were joking. โIโm just kidding, Gyu. If you ever had a crush on someone, you would have told me right?โ
โYeahโฆโ Mingyu nodded. He would have told you right away, right? But what ifโฆwhat if his crush was you? Would he be able to tell you then?
โSpeaking of which, one of my friends thinks you are cute! Do you want to go on a date with her?โ
โEr, I donโt think Iโm good enough-โ
โExcuse me?โ You glared daggers at him, causing him to halt mid sentence. โYou are not good enough? What are you even talking about? Anyone who knows you well knows that you are a literal gem! You are smart, cute, handsome and well-mannered! What else does a girl need?โ
โEr.โ He tried thinking of something to say, but his mind was stuck on something else you had said. You had called him smart, cute and handsome? Sure, he heard you say it a million times before but it did nothing to stop the heat creeping up his cheeks.
โGive it a try, please? Suji is a nice girl too, and Iโm sure you both would click. You know I wouldnโt have even told you about this if I knew you wouldnโt like her, would I?โ You asked, your lower lip jutting out in a pout. You looked so adorable right now, pouting at him slightly as you spoke in a soft voice, as though trying to convince a child to do something for you.
As though in a trance, Mingyu found himself nodding to your words. โOkay. But why does she like me? I mean, I barely know her.โ
โI donโt know honestly. She just said she had a crush on you because you looked like her ideal type.โ
โSoโฆshe loves me because I look like her ideal type?โ
You narrowed your eyes at him and Mingyu wondered what had he done wrong. When he still didnโt reply, you rolled your eyes and took the remote controller, switching off the movie and edging closer to him.
โNo, you silly. She doesnโt love you. I said, she has a crush on you. Thereโs a difference.โ
His head spun at your words as he looked at you annoyed this time. Why were you complicating matters when it was clear he didnโt know a thing about this?
โLook crush is like a short infatuation. It doesnโt have much to do with personality, and is mostly based on looks. Love on the other hand, develops slowly, over a period of time. Like you could give a million reasons why you might have a crush on someone but love is, love is justโฆthereโs no reason. You just love them despite everything and anything. Likeโฆtheir imperfections donโt matter at all.โ
โLike how I love you?โ He asked, and you just laughed, slipping your hands into his. He grimaced as you oily fingers brushed against his, but somehow it felt comforting when you entwined your hand in his.ย
โOf course not. We are just friends; everything is platonic between us. What I mean is loving a stranger, like a person you were not meant to be with in the first place. I mean like, not- not Seokmin, me or Seungkwan. Not your family or friends. Someone you accidentally happened to meet. Am I making sense?โ
Mingyu nodded, understanding you very clearly. It made sense in a way. Loving you couldnโt possibly be the same as loving his girlfriend, could it? Loving you was like his second nature, like it was bound to happen and he couldnโt think of a time he didnโt love you and your friendship. Loving you was just so easy and just so natural; that had to be platonic right?
You switched back on the television, and for a few minutes, silence engulfed the two of you before you broke it again.
โYou want to know something, Gyu?โ
โWhat?โ
โI would have definitely loved you if we werenโt best friends.โย
โHi!โย
Mingyu turned towards the excited squeak and found a girl of his age standing beside him, waving a bit too excitedly. He smiled at her politely before beckoning to the empty seat beside him for her to sit down.
He had finally agreed to go on a date with Suji, deciding that it wouldnโt hurt to enjoy a little bit before he became completely busy with his studies. He had tried searching for good places to go on a date that might suit both his and Sujiโs taste, but finding none, he finally had resorted to asking Seokmin for advice.ย
Currently the two of them were at the Food Plaza, a street completely dedicated to small food shops. According to Seokmin, he and his girlfriend enjoyed trying new food from there so it might be a great idea to take Suji there instead of a restaurant which would serve only a particular cuisine.ย
โSo, um, Suji.โ Mingyu began. immediately wishing a hole would swallow him up because of how awkwardly he had started. โWhat do you eat? I mean, like, what would you like to eat? Like- Like cuisine wise?โย
โUh, about that-โ
โWe could have Italian if you like! Or- or, uh, my friend actually recommended me this taco place but Iโve just got to search for it a bit-โ
โIโm actually allergic to a lot of food.โ She cut him off, smiling at Mingyu apologetically. As he stared at her, he could feel the embarrassment sinking in even more.
Oh. Oh. โWhy didnโt you tell me before? I would have picked a different date spot.โ He said, trying not to sound too dejected at how his first date was going.
โI didnโt want to offend you. I mean, it was the first time we were talking and you asked if this was fine with me and I felt it would be rude if I said no.โ She said sheepishly, clearly equally embarrassed at how things were turning out.
Why did she have to overthink so much? Why did she have to be so polite?
โThenโฆdo you want to go somewhere else-โ
โI see a Subway here, behind you. Do you mind if we eat there instead?โ She asked with a smile.
He forced a smile and got up, and she followed his lead. Oh great, this Subway is only a takeaway. โOf course not. Letโs have a Subway then.โ
Mingyu had always had great expectations for his first date. He had always thought it would be at a nice comfortable place, enjoying the food as he got to know his date and vice versa. Never had he thought that he would be eating a Subway for his first date, sitting on one of the plastic chairs kept outside the shop, getting boiled under the hot sun.
The rest of the afternoon passed away in idle chatter. Suji was apparently a straight A student, but she had no other hobbies because she spent every single moment studying (he could understand her position, really, but it was still boring beyond words).They ended up talking about school and grades more than Mingyu had in his entire life and by the time they had finished lunch, his head was already throbbing.
Out of politeness he asked if she wanted to go to the amusement park but she told him she hated the amusement park, to which Mingyu had nothing to say.
Finally finding that there was nothing else to do (and they had nothing in common except for their grades), the two of them decided to call it a day. They bid each other goodbye with Suji thanking him for the food, and Mingyu promised he would catch up with her more (he didnโt intend to keep this one though).
The sun was already setting in by the time he began his walk back home and the atmosphere had gotten relatively cooler, but it did nothing to stop the pricking heat he was feeling all over his body. His head still throbbed from earlier despite finishing nearly two bottles by himself, so he decided to take some rest at the neighbourhood park.
He sat down on one of the wooden benches and finally let out a breath he didnโt know he was holding in.ย
What was wrong with him? Mingyu could feel his head spinning as he felt oddly hot, his clothes sticking to him uncomfortably. Talking to Suji made him feel so uncomfortable for some reason, it felt like he had been talking to a wall the entire time. It was awkward, forced and just so annoying even though he couldnโt tell why.
And he felt unhappy. Unexplainably unhappy. Like he had been forced to choose a career he hated or like he had been told to stop art altogether.ย
Finally, he took out his phone and dialled a very familiar number, hoping you weren't busy at this moment.
You picked up at the first ring itself and he opened his mouth to speak, but no words came out. What was he supposed to say? That he didnโt enjoy the date? He knew you wouldnโt feel offended by that and you would agree with him but then why couldn't he say anything to you?ย
โGyu?โ You asked softly, your voice laced in worry.ย
And that was enough to break him. He let out a sob as he screwed his eyes shut, feeling a heavy emotion wash over him.
โIโm sorry.โ He whispered, though he himself was unsure what he was sorry about. โIโm so sorry. I just-โ
โWhere are you?โ You cut him off gently, and he paused for a second to catch his breath.ย
โIโm- Iโm at the park near our apartment.โ
โIโll be there in five minutes, okay? Just hang in there.โ
True to your words, you were there within five minutes, and he found you crouching down in front of him. Gently placing your hand on his knees, you asked again, โWhatโs wrong? Did something happen?โ
He was still shaking from the aftermath of his sudden breakdown, the nauseous feeling threatening to rise if he opened his mouth to speak. So instead, he just opted to look at you with his teary eyes, hoping you would understand.
Mingyu had always been the softer one among the two of you. He was always the first one to end up with tears when he got hurt or offended, and at the same time he was the first one to forgive anyone for their mistakes. So it wasnโt really surprising that you had learnt to realise his emotions even if he didnโt, and you always knew the right word to soothe him.
โHey,โ You said, still talking softly to him. You took his hands in yours, gently rubbing circles on them with your thumb. โItโs okay. Itโs completely fine that you didnโt like her, you know that right? Sometimesโฆthings donโt work out the way we think they would. But why are you crying? Did she do something to you? Donโt tell me she forced you to kiss her or-โ
โNo, no, itโs not anything like that.โ He inhaled sharply, finally finding his voice back. He didnโt want to ruin your friendship with Suji just because he was confused about what he was feeling and why he didnโt like her. โItโs just thatโฆI donโt know. She felt so boring, bland and dry. Not in the offensive way! Like- like Minghao from my chess class talks about only grades and school too! But I never feel so dullโฆso lifeless with him.
โItโs okay.โ You said with a reassuring smile that had warmth flooding back to his chest, the stupid prickling heat that had been irritating his skin now gone. Pressing a soft kiss onto his knuckles, you said, โWe donโt have to justify why we donโt like or like someone ever, okay? Itโs completely fine.โย
And all of a sudden Mingyu realised what he had been feeling, why he had felt so unhappy and what Suji had missing.
โI felt uncomfortable.โ He said, just realising how comfortable he felt beside you. There was a feeling you radiated, which was something no one could ever replace. Whenever he was with you he felt like he was at home, like no matter what would happen he could always go back to you.ย
Which was a given since you were his best friend. And yet, when he was with Suji all he could think of was you. Of how you made him feel. Of how you made him feel always.
โItโs okay, Gyu. It can happen. You know that Iโll always be there for you, right?โ You smiled at him.
Mingyu smiled back at you, finally feeling like the throbbing in his head dull down a bit. As if on a cue, he remembered something like this had happened to the two of you long ago, another incident of you calming him down which had resulted in the two of you making a silly promise.
Back then it was a promise made at the heat of the moment, with little to almost no thought given to it since it was meant to be a light joke between the two of you. But when he extended his pinky to you and you immediately linked it with yours, Mingyu could feel your seriousness.
โI promise Iโll be there for you too.โย
He pressed your doorbell multiple times furiously, patience running thin with every passing second. What was taking you so long? Were you that badly injured that you couldnโt even open the door-
The door finally swung open and Mingyu nearly flew in, engulfing you into a bone crushing hug.
โOw! Mingyu- It hurts-โ You clawed at his back but he still didnโt let go, pouring all his anger that had built up in the past few hours against you in this hug (he had always been told he had weird ways to show his anger). It was only when he felt you yank his hair at the back of his head lightly did he let you go.
โWhat the hell-โ He began as he pulled away, still clutching at your shoulders. He took a deep breath in when he saw your split lip and bruised cheek, feeling his heart twist in the most horrendous way ever. โDid you think you were doing?โ
Mingyu could feel the huge wave of guilt coursing through his veins right now. He shouldnโt be blaming you. This wasnโt even your fault in the first place. Why was he getting mad at you?
Because after all, this was actually all his fault. The whole reason you had even got into the fight in the first place was because of him.
And yet, you looked unfazed as you rolled your eyes at him, shrugging his hand off your shoulders. You walked into your bedroom and after making sure the front door was locked (your parents had gone out for a week and it was Mingyuโs responsibility to check if you were keeping up with the safety rules set by them), he followed you into your room.
โWhy did you do that?โ He asked once again, as you sat down on your bed with a huff. He followed suit and you turned to glare at him.
โWhat do you mean why did I do that? Of course I had to punch that asshole-โย
โThen are you going to get into a fight with anyone who says they donโt like me?โ
โOf course I will! And it wasnโt even a matter of simple liking. He called you a whore just because you didnโt want to go out with his sister. Who the fuck does that? I needed to get some decency punched into his head!โ You snapped, causing him to flinch at your anger.
Why were you so angry? It was true that even he would have been offended if someone had insulted you, but now you had gotten yourself hurt and that hurt him a lot more.ย
โDid the school send you home early as a punishment?โ He asked as he got up to search for the first aid box, trying to change the subject.
โNot as a punishment. The principal said he was letting me go since he was the one who started it. But they said that if I got into another fight, it would go down in my report.โ
Mingyu hissed at the very thought of your report getting tainted due to him. Squeezing the antiseptic he had taken out from your first aid box onto a cotton bud, he was about to apply it on your lips but you caught his wrist. He looked up at you in surprise only to see you looking at him worriedly.ย
โAre you mad at me?โ
โIโm not mad. Iโm just- Look, you got hurt. Because of me.โ He said, his strained voice giving away the guilt he had been hiding all this time. He was mad at you; but only because you had got hurt so badly because of him.
โNope. Not because of you. I got hurt because of that bastard-โ
โOkay thatโs enough swearing for a day. But why did you do that?โ
โDone what?โ You asked in annoyance, as though it was a stupid question he was asking. โGotten into a fight? Gyuโฆwouldnโt you have done that for me too?โ
โI- I would- I wouldnโt- Yeah. I would.โ He whispered, feeling bile rise up his throat at the very thought of someone insulting you. Was that even possible? What would they even insult about you? What was even there to insult about you? You were so perfect in every way that Mingyu could not even think of any flaw that someone might find in you. โI would burn down the world for you.โ He said, still whispering.
When you heard this, the creases that had formed in your eyebrows due to your anger disappeared, as you burst into laughter. He blinked at you confused, not sure why you were laughing. Nonetheless, he felt his own mood lighten a bit upon hearing your beautiful laugh, his heart skipping a beat when you smiled at him softly.
โOh Gyu.โ You said, grabbing his hand in yours. Right now you were looking so, so pretty that all Mingyu could do was stare at you and nod dumbly, all words dried from his throat. โYou would burn the world down for me? Nah, you are too sweet for that.โ
At this he snorted, jerking his hand away from you and proceeding to dab at your lips. โYou underestimate my love for you.โ
โI donโt.โ You said, wincing a bit that caused him to freeze, scared that he was hurting you more. Seeing your wounds from up close made his heart squeeze painfully, and it oddly made him wish he had taken those punches instead of you. โI know you love me as much as I love you.โ
โThen donโt get hurt.โ He whispered. You blinked at him and he sighed frustratedly, pulling you into another hug. This one was gentler than the previous one and yet Mingyu held as close as he had done before, as though he was scared to let you go. โThen please donโt get hurt. It hurts me. It hurts me to see you like this.โย
He felt you gently pat his shoulder blades before wrapping your arms around his torso, pulling him even more closer. Your scent, which he had grown so familiar with, comforted him as you buried your face in the crook of his neck.
Hugs were not something uncommon between the two of you; you had hugged each other a million times before and nothing had changed between the two of you.
And yet right now, as Mingyu held your body close to his, he was hyper aware of how your skin felt against his, of how comfortably your body fit in his grip and of how his heart raced as you clutched his biceps. His heart hurt, his head hurt and yet, it felt so good to have you in his arms.ย
It really felt like Mingyu was the one who got into a fight; everything hurt so badly. He thought of the raging emotion he had first felt when he had heard that his classmate had hurt you. He remembered the panic he felt when he entered the nurse room and couldnโt find you; he was worried that you were in a worse condition than he had thought you were in and had to be taken to the hospital. And he remembered the relief flooding back in him when the nurse told you had simply been asked to go back home and there was nothing serious about your bruises. It had nearly torn him apart as he waited for the day to get over, dying to go home and make sure that you were actually okay.
He thought of all the emotions he had experienced with you; happiness, anger, sadness, fear, surprise and even disgust. Mingyu had shared a huge journey with millions of memories with you. He really couldnโt even imagine what his life would have been like if it werenโt for you. It was impossible to even breathe without you.
Suddenly he remembered what Seokmin had told him once, that maybe, maybe he was in love with you.
It was back when they were on a school school field trip and students had been allowed some free time around the resort so Mingyu, Seokmin and Seungkwan decided to play on the monkey bars. They were just either sitting on it or swinging aimlessly (sixteen year olds were a bit too tall for a playground meant for five year olds) with idle chatter when you and your group came and sat down on the swing.
Normally Mingyu wouldnโt have really cared and the swings were too far from the monkey bar to involve himself in your talk but he glanced at you and felt himself smile. You were laughing and talking to your friend, the sunlight catching your hair and almost giving you an angelic glow.
It was already warm but Mingyu still felt warmth spreading in his chest, his cheeks heating up within seconds.
Back then, Seokmin had joked, only joked, that Mingyu was in love with you but now, he realised that it may be true.
That maybe, he was in love with you.
And not in the platonic way that you had explained to him. Not in the way where you both exchanged โi love yousโ regularly because you loved your friendship.
He loved you in the way Orpheus loved Eurydice, the way Romeo loved Juliet and the way Louisa Clark loved William Traynor.ย
Because Mingyu had said it for himself; loving you was so easy and just so natural that he couldnโt even think of something else, he couldnโt even see himself falling in love with someone else. Loving you was like a river flowing, something that would have happened no matter what. Something that could not be stopped, because then it would be like a dam that had been forced to be built to stop Mingyuโs emotions from flowing.
โJust promise me you wonโt get hurt.โ He whispered and felt you slightly nod your head. You were gently rubbing circles on his back, with no idea what effect it had on him. โPromise me please. Because I love you so much that I canโt bear to see you get hurt.โ
โI promise.โ You mumbled almost immediately, unaware of the double meaning his words held.ย
But thatโs okay. Mingyu thought. You didnโt have to know about his feelings. He wasnโt going to burden you or your friendship with his one sided love. As long as you were happy, he was okay with it.
After all, some promises were meant to be broken.
Like this one.ย
โWhat did you even want to show us?โ Seungkwan grumbled, squinting through the sunlight looking heavily annoyed.
Mingyu didnโt blame him though. They had been sitting at the cafe for the past half an hour doing nothing, still waiting for whatever โsurpriseโ you had planned for them. The hot weather made everything even worse; Seokmin was already on his fourth ice cream, Seungkwan was sipping his sixth iced americano and Mingyu himself had drunk two large glasses of milkshake and now he wanted to use the washroom so badly but could only resort to shaking his legs.
โIf I tell you it wonโt be a surprise anymore, will it?โ You said, checking your phone for the millionth time.ย
Mingyu realised that this was the first time in weeks he was hanging out with you. College was starting in a month and everyone had decided to take part in activities that might help them boost their respective subject knowledge. Since both of you had decided to major in different subjects, he hadnโt been able to see you much due to the conflicting schedules of your work.ย
He felt warmth bloom in his chest as he watched you smile at your screen, the corners of his lips tugging when he realised how ridiculously pretty you looked. Mingyu had come to terms with the fact that love was indeed blind; in his eyes you would always be the most perfect human being and even though you would never see him in a non-romantic way, he would always love you.
All of a sudden your eyes lit up, and you jumped up from your chair. โHeโs here!โ You yelled as you dashed towards the entrance of the cafe.
Confusion settled between the three of them as both Seungkwan and Seokminโs eyes fell on Mingyu.
โHe? Whatโs she talking about?โ Seungkwan asked urgently, but all Mingyu could do was furrow his eyebrows.
He? Who were you talking about? Was it a new friend? It couldnโt be your-
โGuys, meet my boyfriend!โย
Mingyu felt blood rush up his ears as he stared at you. A boy, of their age, beamed at the three of them along with you, both of you clutching each otherโs hands. The two of you were met by complete silence, which was only interrupted when Seokminโs spoon clattered onto the ground.
โOh, hi!โ He said, laughing awkwardly to ease the sudden tension that had built up. You pulled your โboyfriendโ down onto a chair beside you and it was only when the said man smiled at Mingyu did the truth finally sink in.
You had a boyfriend. A boyfriend.
Suddenly the air felt a thousand times hotter than it already was, compressing against him like it was trying to squeeze all the breath out of him. He felt his stomach drop as you smiled at the man beside you, your eyes holding so much love for him.
A love that could never ever be his.ย
Mingyu felt like he was going to be sick. And his two friends were doing literally nothing to stop the nausea rising up his throat. Seungkwan was glaring very obviously at the newcomer while Seokmin smiled at him awkwardly.ย
You looked at the three of them expectantly, your smile dropping a little when none of them showed the reaction you were clearly hoping for.
Mingyu felt his heart crack a little at your slightly crestfallen face and thatโs when Mingyu realised how stupid he was acting.
How could he be this selfish? Just because he was in love with you didnโt mean that you couldnโt date or fall for someone else. Just because he loved you didnโt mean that you were obliged to return the same feelings. Hell, you didnโt even know that he was in love with you in the first place (which, Seungkwan and Seokmin considered a bit dense of you, because of the fact that it was apparently very obvious that Mingyu was and always had been in love with you; in fact thatโs how they had come to know about this even without him telling them).
โHi! Nice to meet you. Iโm Mingyu. And this is Seungkwan and this is Seokmin.โ He spoke, forcing a smile onto his face for your sake. You immediately beamed back at him and for a second, Mingyu almost forgot that your boyfriend was there.
โHi Mingyu! Iโm Jisung. Y/Nโs talked so much about you! At first I thought your name was actually Gyu.โ He laughed and Mingyu smiled back politely.ย
He engaged himself in a casual conversation with Jisung and you, kicking his two friends lightly under the table so that they could help him a bit too. He didn't want you to feel bad. After all, you had looked really excited when you had first told them about the surprise and he wanted you to be happy.
"I'm hurt, though." Mingyu said with a pout, so that you would understand that he was only joking (he wasn't). "You never told me that the reason you kept putting your club activities over meeting up with me was because you had a boyfriend. You could have introduced us much sooner."
You smiled at him apologetically, a small shy one that caused his heart to stutter a little.ย
โHey, come on.โ Jisung laughed, placing his hand over yours and giving it a squeeze. โOf course she would prioritise me, her boyfriend, over you, her best friend.โ
โExcuse me?โ Seungkwan asked as Mingyu felt his stomach twist in the most revolting way. He felt something catch his throat, his cheeks flaming at the comment more than the unbearable heat of the weather.ย
Mingyu wasnโt stupid; he could feel the sudden tension in the air at Jisungโs comment and your slightly shocked face so he tried laughing it off. He really, really tried smiling at his words, however awkward the smile was, but for some reason he just couldnโt. All he could do was tighten his grip on the glass as he gritted his teeth to stop himself from lashing out.
Never had he felt so much anger towards someone. No matter how much he tried to digest that statement, he just couldnโt stop the bitterness from rising to his mouth.ย
Because it was true.
Mingyu knew it was true, and so did everyone else present at the table.
He would always just be a best friend for you, while someone else played the role of your boyfriend. It was a part he could never play, no matter how much he loved you.
But Jisung telling him that definitely didnโt make anything better. It didnโt make his feelings for you go away or make him realise how stupid he was to fall in love with his best friend. If anything, it made him feel worse. It was like Jisung had on purpose crossed all boundaries, just to rile him up.
โH-Hey guys?โ Seokmin interrupted, as though worried of what Mingyu might end up saying in the heat of the moment. โDidnโt the three of us promise to play on Joshuaโs new xbox at two? If we want to reach on time then we need to leave now.โ
โOh, thatโs right!โ Seungkwan said, standing up and grabbing Mingyuโs elbow to pull him up. For a second Mingyu looked at his two best friends hurrying to leave in a confusion and then it finally hit him what they were actually trying to do.
โAh, yeah. Sorry I forgot to mention this Y/N. But we need to leave now.โ He said, forcing a smile onto his face just for you. You still looked taken aback from your boyfriendโs comment and just smiled back hastily at him.
"Uh, okay. I'm sure we all can hang out together later too!" You called after them, and theyย hastily turned to you, bidding you a goodbye.
The three of them walked in complete silence for a while, as though the situation had not yet sunk in.
A boyfriend. His biggest worry was now coming true.
Mingyu could still taste the bile in his mouth and no matter how much he swallowed, the lump in his throat was still choking him.
"Hey manโฆ" Seokmin said, stopping abruptly and causing the other two to do the same. He looked at Mingyu sadly, before patting him gently on the shoulder. "I'm so sorry."
He could feel tears sting his eyes as he balled his fists to stop them from falling. But no matter how much he tried, he just couldn't stop the feeling of his heart being ripped apart.
Why couldn't he be the one holding your hand right now? Why couldn't he be the one whom you looked at with so much love? Why couldn't he be the one who showered you with love and affection everyday?
The sadness clutched at his heart tightly as the first tear drop fell. Seungkwan clutched his hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze as though he could understand Mingyuโs feelings.
It's okay. He said to himself. You knew this would happen.
He hadn't felt this sad in years, not even when his friend Kwon Soonyoung made his entire friend group think he was the mafia when he wasn't, and definitely not when he had to force himself to keep a straight face when he heard guys talk about how pretty and awesome you were, or when you would open every single Valentine's Day letter and read them out to him, all the while giggling.
Mingyu felt Seokmin take his other hand and the comfort it gave him made him realise once again how grateful he was to the two of them.
He took in a shuddering breath to calm himself down before speaking. "Thanks a lot. For back there."
Seokmin shook his head, once again patting his back. "Don't mention it. I know this won't cheer you up and it probably sounds useless, but you both are going to two different colleges next month, right? Maybe, Iโm saying maybe, you'll get over her. Maybe- maybe the lesser you see her, the easier it will be for you. Plus there's going to be so many other girls too, right?"
Mingyu just nodded, not having the heart to tell him how dull other girls looked to him beside you.
"But I just don't understand how Y/N still does not know that you are in love with her. I mean, even if she can't see it, surely her friends would have noticed?"
Mingyu shrugged, the feeling of dejection finally setting in as he watched the setting sun. But he always knew that one day or another, you would get a boyfriend that wasn't him and he would have to accept that.ย
After all, the promise that the two of you had made was just a stupid joke, right?ย
"Hey Mingyu. If you want, Soonyoung and I could accidently spill poison into that shit excuse of a boyfriend's coffee and Seungcheol or Jeonghan could cover it up."
He let out a laugh at this, feeling his mood lift up a bit. A bit.
"No thank you. I don't want any of you in jail."
"Damn, okay. What does she even see in that asshole anyways?"
Mingyu shrugged. "I guess everything that I lack."
"Hey, hey, hey." Seokmin shook his head at the two of them. "We need to cheer up! And you know what to do after a breakup?"
"Seokmin. To break up you need to be in a relationship in the first place. Mingyu hasn't even confessed to Y/N yet-"
"Do you," Seokmin flashed his eyes dangerously at Seungkwan. "Know what you need to do? That's right gentlemen. We need to stop by Joshua's house to play with his xbox."
"Did Joshua really buy a new xbox? Didn't he buy one last year?" Mingyu asked, already feeling slightly distracted.
"Yes and yes. You can thank me later on for being best friends with the richest kid from LA."
"He's friends with all of us."
"Whatever helps you sleep at night, Seungkwan."ย
๐๐๐. ๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐
The rain poured down heavily as he ran across the wet road, ignoring the way his wet clothes clung on to his skin, making him feel cold and clammy. His sneakers were soggy too, making it almost difficult to run, but he didnโt want to think of the consequences if he didnโt get to you quickly.ย
Mingyu came to a halt in front of a series of bars, taking out his phone hurriedly to check the address you had sent him.ย
Correction: he whipped out his phone to check the incoherent words you sent him with the line "oick ne up pld".
By now understanding your drunk texts had become a second nature to him; he could decipher it as easily as your normal ones. In fact, this current situation was such a common occurrence that he knew that it wouldnโt really hurt you if he reached a minute or two late but he could never get rid of that horrible feeling in his heart that something, something might happen to you if he didnโt find you.
Finally stepping into the bar whose name you had sent, Mingyu scanned the crowd for your familiar face. Being a Friday, the place was really crowded but it didnโt take him long to find you seated on one of the stools near the counter, emptying your glass in a flash before resting your forehead against the counter.
The tightening in his chest returned as he took in your expression, your drunken state causing his heart to shatter into millions of pieces.ย
He hated seeing you like this. He hated seeing you sad, he hated seeing you cry and he hated seeing you so heartbroken. It made him angry at the universe for making you cry, it made him angry at you โboyfriendโ for making you cry, and it made angry at himself.
It made him angry that he couldnโt protect you, or save you from feeling these emotions. It made him so angry that there were days he would just hate himself for not being able to make you smile. What was the point of being your best friend if he couldnโt protect you from those feelings? What was the point of loving you if you still got hurt over love?
Taking a deep breath to calm himself down, Mingyu walked over to your spot and sat down on the stool beside you. Then gently patting your back, he called your name softly. โY/N? Can you hear me?โย
You immediately shot up, looking around a little dazed until your eyes landed on him. Squinting at him a little, you asked in a slurred voice, โGyu?โ
โYeah. Itโs me. Letโs go home, okay?โ He asked, still speaking softly as he gently slung your arm over his shoulder. You let him pull you up from your chair as he tightened his grip on your waist, and you buried your face in his neck.
Mingyu felt your nose tickle his neck as you wrapped both of your arms around his shoulders tightly, but he ignored it and instead focused on literally dragging you out of the crowded place. Once the two of you had made it out safely, he quickly hailed for a taxi so that you didnโt get wet (and because it was physically impossible for him to drag you all the way back home). After making sure you were seated comfortably in the backseat, he slipped in beside you.
โY/N?โ He asked, poking your knees as you rested your head on his shoulder. The strong smell of alcohol on you pricked his nose in irritation but he let you be, allowing you to use his shirt as a tissue. โDid youโฆbreak up again?โย
You nodded slowly, sniffling once before looking up at him in teary eyes. Mingyu felt his heart break once again and it took him all his willpower to not wrap his arms around you and engulf you into a hug before you even spoke.
โHe said- he said something was off. That he didnโt feel that I was really interested in him.โ You mumbled into his shoulder. โI donโt get it though. I really liked him. What did he mean by โI wasn't interested in himโ?โ
โMaybe- maybe it's because you both have busy schedules?โ Mingyu reasoned, not sure why he was trying for excuses for your boyfriend, now an ex. โMaybe he was under stress so he wasnโt able to figure things out in his end?โ
โI donโt know.โ You mumbled. โI-I thought it would work this time.โ
It would work this time.
Mingyu had lost track of the number of times he had heard you spill those words, both in your drunken and sober state. It was a word he heard repeatedly over the years since college and he had thought that maybe after you got a job, he would stop having to hear those words.
But he still ended up hearing them after your every single break up, still sympathising with you like he was just your best friend and didnโt love you in any romantic way.ย
โMaybe itโs time you, uh, try something different?โ Another common response. โLike maybe stop being in a relationship for a while, heal yourself completely and then try?โ
โIโve tried, Gyu. Iโve tried it so many times. But for some reason, I feel like something is missing in my life if Iโm not in a relationship. You understand, right?โ
He did not understand. Mingyu had never been in a relationship before thanks to his one sided love for you but even apart from that, he couldnโt understand how you could jump from one person to another in such a short span of time even though each of it ended in the same sad, messy way.
The taxi finally came to a halt, indicating that they had reached their destination. Mingyu quickly paid the fare and gently pulled you out of the vehicle, him still supporting your maximum weight.ย
Experience had taught him that dragging you all the way up to the fourth floor of the apartment not only was a bit strenuous to him but also hazardous to you (the dark corridors were not helping his clumsy nature in any way). So he slung your arms around his neck and pulled you onto his back, grabbing your knees as he made his way to the apartment elevator.ย
Once he stepped out of the elevator and reached his front door, he slowly let go of your one knee and reached for his pant pocket to get his house key-
Shit.ย
His hand came out empty and he felt panic grab him. Frantically, he reached for his other pocket but all he could feel was his wallet. In his hurry to get to you, he had forgotten to take his key with him.ย
How could he be so stupid? He had always been an organised person and always checked, double checked everything before leaving the house. How could he forget something so important, especially when you needed his help?
Shit, shit, shit. If we stay here any longer, Y/Nโs going to catch a cold. Should I just go to a hotel-
The front door swung open and if Mingyu had been asked at that instant which god he believed in, Mingyu would have said Jeon Wonwoo without a second's hesitation.ย ย
โOh god Wonwoo-โ He began, as his older roommate just rolled his eyes, opening the door wider to let the two of you in. Carefully, Wonwoo helped a now unconscious you slide down from his back onto the couch. โHow did you know-โ
โHow did I know you forgot your key?โ Wonwoo asked, crossing his arms in front of his chest. Mingyu nodded, feeling Wonwooโs disapproval through his stare. โWell, I went to your room to return your book but guess who had sneaked off so late at night?โ
Mingyu averted his eyes down, feeling Wonwooโs gaze pierce through him.
โItโs not that I have a problem with you hanging out so late at night. Iโve never even complained when Y/N crashes in your room. But why do you-โ He inhaled sharply, trying to calm himself down. Mingyu felt guilt wash over him as Wonwoo continued. โBut why do you run to her every single time? Do you have no self respect?โ
He winced at his friendโs words even though he knew they were true. He had himself asked this question many times. Why didnโt he stop going to you everytime? Why did he force himself to shoulder your pain every single time? Why couldnโt he, for once, even hint that he loved you?
โYou keep telling me it's the last time. Every single damn time.โ
โIโm- Iโm sorry. I promise this will be the last time-โ
โYou always say that!โ He snapped. โYou say that it's going to be the last time, and then you go back, and then get hurt as she rambles about her boyfriend and you still stick to her like sheโs not hurting you; like you arenโt breaking inside, like-โ
โThen what do you want me to do? Ignore her messages? Leave her alone in this state?โ
โNo!โ Wonwoo hissed. โBut if you donโt set boundaries, you are going to be her doormat forever! Youโll be a pushover-โ
โFine, I get it!โ Mingyu snapped, mad at Wonwoo for not understanding him and mad at himself for being exactly what Wonwoo had just called him. Your doormat. โI get it, okay? I get what you mean. But I canโt just- I canโt- Fine, Iโll- Iโll get over-โย
Both the men flinched as you murmured in your sleep, causing them to finally pause. Wonwoo sighed as he shook his head, slowly walking back to his room.
โItโs up to you, Gyu. Either chase her or forget your feelings for her. But what you are doing now- itโs just going to hurt you more. Iโll be in my room if Y/N needs anything, okay?โ
With that, he shut the door of his room, leaving Mingyu all alone with a snoring you.ย
โGyu.โ You said, swallowing your food abruptly to speak. It just resulted in the huge lump to get stuck in your throat, causing you to cough as you choked on it. Immediately Mingyu shot up from his chair and thumped your back, slowing it down to gentle pats as gradually stopped coughing. โThanks.โ You muttered, giving him a small smile as tears slid down your cheeks.ย
โBe careful.โ He said worriedly, pouring you another glass of juice. You took a sip of it and set it down, before giving him a bigger smile. Mingyu felt his heart clench painfully as you beamed at him gratefully; as though he was your saviour.ย
โThank you for the breakfast.โ He just nodded, swallowing thickly as he tried to distract himself from your smile; anything that wouldnโt remind him of the way the sunlight from behind gave you a soft glow, the way the corner of your lips quirked up when you smiled, the way- โAnd- and thank you for yesterday. Thank you for always, actually.โ You continued.ย
โDonโt thank me.โ He said, sitting down back on his seat. โThatโs what friends do anyways, right?โ
Opposite to him, he heard someone snort. Both of you turned your attention to Wonwoo, who was busy reading the newspaper (Mingyu had never seen his roommate with a newspaper; in fact the newspapers were only for him).ย
โAh,โ you said, โthank you to you too, Wonwoo. Gyu told me that if it hadnโt been for your timely intervention, we would have frozen to death outside the house.โย
Wonwoo narrowed his eyes at you, as though trying to find the sarcasm in your statement. But you were genuinely smiling at him and Mingyu kicked Wonwoo lightly under the table. You might be stamping on Mingyuโs heart (unknowingly of course) but he knew you were always thankful to Wonwoo.
โItโs okay.โ He muttered, going back to the newspaper. โI was just helping my friend.โ
โYeah, thanks for that too.โ You turned back to him and scrunched your nose. โGyu can be a little oblivious to his surroundings sometimes, right? He needs someone to take care of him sometimes.โ
โAbsolutely right.โ Wonwoo stated coolly, picking up an egg tart that Mingyu had made specifically for you. He eyed Mingyu, before continuing to speak. โHe definitely doesn't keep his own feelings and health in mind and is always dashing to help others, unaware about himself or what state he is in.โย
Mingyu laughed dryly at his roommateโs statement, before shooting him a glare. Wonwoo then continued again. โBut Mingyu is really responsible. And always has everything under control.โ (By now, Mingyu could feel sarcasm even in Wonwooโs breath) โIn fact most of the time, itโs him taking care of me. Besides, I think we can all agree that you need to be taken care of more than him.โ
At this, Mingyu shot up from his chair once again, pulling you up by your elbow. โYou are done right? Iโve already packed some lunch for you. Come on, Iโll drive you back home.โ
You looked at him confused. โBut- But I just started-โ
โItโs okay, you can have them in the car!โ He said, quickly picking up some tarts. You rose from your chair hesitantly, but nonetheless waved Wonwoo a small bye as you followed Mingyu out of the house.ย
Just before closing the main door, Mingyu glared one last time at his roommate, but the older one just smiled at him, mouthing the words, โenjoy your โaloneโ time with Y/N.โ He air quoted the word alone, causing Mingyu to roll his eyes.
As he walked towards his car with you behind him, he made a mental note to talk to Wonwoo about not betraying roommates.ย
โIโm sorry.โ You said, as you finally settled in the car seat. Mingyu looked at you confusedly, not sure where this was coming from. You had never apologised to him before because there wasnโt any need to. He would have gone to pick you up if you had ever texted him, break up or not, drunk or sober. It wasnโt like the two of you were strangers either, where one had to apologise for the inconvenience caused.ย
Wait, Mingyu thought. Donโt tell me she knows about-
โI keep asking you to come so late at night and pick me up. And then I crash into your house just like that. I can understand why Wonwoo doesnโt like me.โ You said, a note of sadness lingering in your voice.
โOh.โ He let out a small breath of relief, feeling a tension release from his chest at your words. Over the years, as Mingyu saw how horribly you dealt with breakups, he had learnt to control his feelings even more whenever he was around you and not let a slip of word either. He didnโt want you to end up like that because of him, even the thought of it brought a stabbing pain to his chest. โOh, donโt be sorry. What are friends for, huh? Iโve known you all my life. If I canโt help you get you home safely, I think your mother will stop thinking of me as her son.โ He glanced at your direction as you gave him a small smile.ย
But Mingyu could tell there was still some weight on your chest so he added, โAnd donโt worry about Wonwoo. He does like you. Itโs just that- It's just that he is worried that one of us might get hurt, you know.โ That one of us being me. โHeโs a great guy, trust me. Heโs nice and caring in his quiet ways. And heโs someone I trust with my life. Apart from you of course. And Seokmin and Seungkwan. And Joshua too.โ
Mingyu saw you smile more brightly from the corner of his eyes as you reached forward and placed your hand over his, which was on the steering. Had it been someone else, Mingyu would have flinched and probably would have accidentally rammed the car into a wall (he was speaking this from experience; needless to say the female coworker didnโt even glance at his direction ever again despite the โcrushโ she previously had on him).
But yours were so warm and comforting, he felt himself relaxing against your touch almost immediately, before realising you were probably watching him. Quickly he straightened up, and inhaled deeply to control his heart that was giving small squeezes every now and then.
โSo, uh,โ He began, venturing into the area he knew might be a bit painful for you. โWhat did he say this time?โ
You seemed to understand who he was referring to by the way you withdrew your hands from his and crossed them in front of your chest. You frowned slightly though Mingyu wasnโt sure if it was because of the sunlight falling on your face or the content of yesterday nightโs conversation.
โI donโt know, Gyu. I donโt know. He said he felt I wasnโt committed enough. What did he mean by that? I always readjusted my schedule to meet him, ditched my friends whenever he said he needed me and god knows what else. What more does he need?โย
โDid you mention that to him?โ
โOf course I did! And he just felt that even though my actions were doing those, it was obvious my heart was searching for something else! Like what is he? A shaman?โ
โEr, didnโt the last guy, whatโs his name? Haejoon? Didnโt he say the same thing?โ Mingyu asked.
โWhoโs side are you on?โย
โYours, of course.โย
โGood to know. But you are right, you know. They always say the same thing. Not only Haejoon and Jongmin. Starting from Jisung, they always say the same thing.โ
โAnd what are you exactly searching for?โ Mingyu asked as he carefully parked the car in front of your apartment. He really wanted to know what was the thing that you were looking for, the thing that caused your break ups and the thing that might finally give you solace. He wondered if he had what you were searching, though he doubted you would even bother looking for it in him.ย
You shrugged as you got out of the door, pulling the bag of food along with you as you got out. โI donโt know. I donโt know myself.โ You said, though in Mingyuโs opinion you didnโt look that affected by it. Mingyu had always loved how cool and chill you always were about life but right now, he was really dying to know what was the key point that would win your heart forever.
โHere, give that to me. Itโs heavy. Iโll carry it.โ He said, reaching forward to take the bag from your hand but you just moved the handle away from him, a playful glint in your eyes.
โWhat? Just because youโve been living in the gym off lately doesnโt mean I canโt lift this much.โ You said, walking up the stairs.
Mingyu frowned and paused for a second, before chasing after you. โHow did you know that? I donโt think Iโve told you-โ
โThose arms donโt lie, Gyu.โ You said with a wink, stopping in front of your door as you rummaged through your purse for the house key. โAnd besides, Seokmin keeps me updated with his pictures-โ
โWhat? Seokmin has been sending you gym pictures?โ Mingyu gasped, feeling his head spin. You just laughed at him teasingly as you walked into the house, a sound which made Mingyuโs stomach somersault but right now his head was in a whirl. โY/N! Answer me!โ
โAnd what will you do if I say yes?โ You said, amused at his reaction as you placed the bag of food carefully on the dining table before turning to you. Your one hand was on your hip, the other on the edge of the table and you were smiling at him brightly, eyes crinkling at the corners.ย
You looked so, so pretty that for a second Mingyu had forgotten to answer your question. It was only when you raised your eyebrows at him did he realise he was staring, and quickly looked down so that you wouldnโt see the heat creeping up his cheeks.ย
โUh, it doesnโt really matter to me.โ And it shouldnโt have mattered. Mingyu knew that Seokmin and you were just good friends, and that Seokmin was really faithful to his girlfriend but still, he couldnโt help feeling disgruntled about it. Why couldnโt it be his gym pictures you were asking for?
โUh huh.โ He heard you say, but it sounded closer than before. Mingyu looked up and almost jumped back, because you were so close to him now, that he could almost count the number of lashes on your eyes. He inhaled your scent; you smelled like his soap. But he never knew his soap smelt this good, never knew its scent could be this intoxicating, slowing down his reactions as you beamed at him mischievously. How the hell did you manage to smell better than him in his soap?
โYou donโt need to pout so much, Gyu.โ You said, cupping his cheeks as you scrunched your nose at him fondly. Despite being six feet, Mingyu felt like a small puppy in your arms, waiting for its master to pet it. It was taking all his resolve not to wrap his arms around your waist and kiss you, or even melt into your touch this easily. When did he become so whipped for you?
โYou know,โ You began a bit absent mindedly this time as you dropped your arms and took a step back from him. โYou look very cute when you pout. But I donโt want you to be sad on my behalf, Gyu.โ
Mingyu blinked at you. โWhat do you mean?โ
โI mean, me being sad isnโt your fault Mingyu. My breakups, getting wasted or even jumping into relationships so hastily isnโt your fault. Donโt blame yourself.โ
โWhat are you talking about, Y/N?โ
You turned your back towards him and walked back to the dining table, carefully taking out the lunch boxes he had packed for you. โI see how you look after each break up. You look so hurt, more hurt than even I feel and somehow that hurts me more. I hate seeing you so hurt. It breaks me-โ You inhaled sharply, trying to control the trembling in your voice. โI hate calling you each and every time, I hate leaning on you so much, I hate dumping all my sorrow over you. I hate it, hate it, hate it. I fucking hate it so much.โ
โBut- Butโ He began, still not sure what you were trying to say. His mind was in a whirl and it was hard getting out the thoughts in his head. โBut I already told you many times that I donโt mind picking you up. I donโt mind being beside you whenever you go through these! If I donโt do these, then who will?โย
โAnd I hate seeing you sad.โ You finally turned to face him and Mingyu felt his heart drop. You wereโฆcrying? โIf you stop being sad, then I donโt mind you coming over to me. OtherwiseโฆI feel selfish. I always feel like an awful person and I hate feeling like this so much. Iโve just wanted you to be happy, you know that Gyu.
He snorted. โWell, you are being selfish. You canโt stop me from doing this much for you. Do all our years of friendship mean nothing to you?โ What was wrong with you? Why were you saying such things to him? Each word that escaped your mouth felt like a slash on his heart, like all the things he had done for you as a friend, as a person he loved and trusted, had meant nothing to you.ย
โGyu-โ
โNo, donโt start again! Donโt okay, donโt! You donโt get to decide what I feel or what I want to do for you! You are being selfish if you think itโs okay for me to stand back and watch you fall apart.โ
โMingyu, please listen to me-โ
โIf you care about my feelings then stop breaking up just like that!โ He yelled. The silence that followed was almost deafening and as Mingyu watched your tears fall more, he realised that he too was crying. His whole body was shaking as he clenched his fists, feeling an anger he had never felt before coursing through his veins.ย
Why did he do that? Why did he say that? Why was he feeling so hurt over your statement? Yes, you were being selfish by telling him to stand back and watch you cry every time, whether he loved you romantically or not.ย
But it hurt him more that you were so ready to give him up was like a huge blow to him. And because of what, it made you sad?
He swallowed thickly, breathing in slowly as he tried to calm down his racing heart. โIf- if you want me to be happy, focus on yourself first. After all, it was you who started it.โ
โAnd one kilogram of cheddar cheese.โ Wonwoo said, and Mingyu reached out to take the last slab of cheese kept in the open freezer, but instead he found himself holding someone elseโs hand, who was holding the cheese he was about to grab.
He immediately jerked his arm back and turned to profusely beg for forgiveness, but froze when his eyes met the other person, who too was staring back at him with a look of shock.ย
Your eyes averted down to your shoes as you took a step back almost immediately, clutching the part of your wrist he had just held. And he would have kept staring at you, trying to think of something to say after last weekโs fight if it wasnโt for the sudden crash sound from beside you that snapped both of you out of your daze.
Mingyu turned to his right to see a curly haired girl staring back at the trio, all the items that were once in her hand on the floor now.ย
โNi!โ You gasped, running towards the girl to help her pick up the things. Mingyu too moved forward to help but Wonwoo was the fastest among the three, picking up the groceries and handing them to her.
As she took it slowly from his hands, Mingyu all of a sudden realised that she wasnโt staring at all the three of them, she was staring at his roommate. At Wonwoo.
His eyes darted to you and you too wore an expression of shock and surprise, as your head moved between Ni and Wonwoo, as though finally understanding the situation.
โAre you okay?โ Wonwoo asked, the question snapping her out of her trance as she looked away, cheeks flushed in embarrassment. Then turning back to him she nodded a little, before asking, โAre you okay?โ
Wonwoo blinked at her for a second before she realised what she had just said, flushing once more as she furiously corrected herself again. โI-I mean, thanks a lot. For helping me, I mean.โ
Mingyu looked at you once again and smirked, as you too mirrored back his expression. He very well could see where this situation was going and for once he hoped that Wonwoo wouldnโt screw it up.
โNo problem.โ Wonwoo said, before looking back at Mingyu. โSo, uh, Mingyu should we-โ
โOh hey, are you sure you donโt want any help?โ Mingyu interjected, signalling at Ni with his eyes, hoping she would get the hint. โLike um, do you want any help getting stuff from the top shelf because-โ
because you are short? Was that rude? Was he overdoing it? But like he was blessed to have you as his best friend, you came to his rescue immediately. โBecause you are short! And Wonwoo is tall! Thereโs nothing wrong in asking a sexy, handsome, tall man to help, right?โ
Mingyu had always thought it was your charming personality and unearthly beauty that got you the long list of lovers but now he made a mental note to add smooth talker to it. Because while he was sure that if he had said that statement Wonwoo would have said no, he could literally see the wheels in his roommateโs brain turning as he mulled over your words.
โSure.โ He said, turning back to give Ni a smile. โWhereโs your grocery list? I could help you.โ Saying that he turned to look at you, tilting his head as he said something to you through his eyes. You pursed your lips a bit but looked at Ni and gave her a smile.
The two of them then disappeared down the aisle, leaving Mingyu alone with you, the coolness from the freezer all of a sudden disappearing as he felt the awkwardness settle in.
It had been a week since the argument the two of you had but none of you had made an approach to talk it out. And now seemed to be the perfect time to talk about it but once again the two of you just stared at the floor, waiting for each other to break the ice.
โUh, so about that dayโฆโ You began, as both of you looked up at the same time. โIโm sorry.โ
โItโs okay. I mean, yeah, even Iโm sorry so-โ
โWell you shouldnโt be.โ You interrupted him. Then taking in a deep breath, you stepped closer to him, looking down again. You looked so nervous and confused, as though you werenโt sure of how to apologise to him.ย โI mean, you shouldnโt be sorry because you were right. You were trying to help me, but, you know- Iโm trying to sort out my feelings still, trying to find out whatโs wrong and uh,-โ
โHey.โ He said softly, putting his hands on your shoulder causing you to look up at him. You looked so sorry that Mingyu almost forgave you then and there. But he knew the two of you needed to talk it out so instead he said, โHow about we talk about this after a few more days? I think we both are affected by this so I think we both should sort out our feelings and thoughts and then talk about it. Youโre right, I do get hurt everytime I see and I know that hurts you too. But you very well know I canโt leave you like that, can I? If our roles were reversed you would do the same for me.โ
You opened your mouth to say something but then closed it, slowly nodding as you let out a sigh and leaned in to rest your head on his shoulder. He felt his muscles tense as he inhaled in your scent, but relaxed almost immediately when you wrapped your arms around his waist. He did the same too, pulling you in closer as you stood like that for a few seconds before breaking the silence again with a chuckle.
โWhen did you become so mature, Mingoo?โ You asked, causing him to groan. โBack when we were kids it was always me taking care of you. When did you grow up so much?โ
โHmmm, maybe if you took care yourself a little bit more-โ
โOkay, okay!โ You laughed, pulling away from him to look at him. You smiled at him softly, the familiar heat sparking in his heart as you nodded at him. โYou are right. I promise Iโll get back to you in a few more days. Wait for me till then?โ
Iโm always waiting for you.
โYou guys are terrible.โ You groaned, tearing the wrapper of the triangular kimbap. You glared at five men sitting opposite to you individually, before taking a bite of food in your hand. โThis is not what I had asked you all for!โ
โBlame that on Mingyu.โ Seungkwan grumbled, shooting a glare in his direction as he picked up a fish cake bar and unwrapped it, dipping it into his ramyeon cup.ย
Mingyu could feel the disappointed look of his friends on him, so he cleared his throat and tried to divert the blame away from him. โCome on guys. You all love eating at this convenience store. Weโve eaten so many times here during our college days! Doesnโt it bring back memories again? Just the five of us, meeting up after a month and enjoying a meal here? Can't you guys feel the nostalgia?โย
He felt you slap his shoulder lightly, and he grabbed it with an exaggeration. hoping that would make you soft for him and you would stop scolding him so badly.ย
โDid I ask you to set up a reunion meeting? I asked you to pick a restaurant according to the guysโ convenience because I wanted to treat them!โ You pursed your lips and glared at him once more, and the situation would have scared Mingyu out of his wits if he couldnโt hear Seokminโs giggling from the corner.ย
โSheesh.โ He muttered, rubbing his shoulder. He was used to being blamed by the group for the simplest reasons such as breathing in the wrong way but he really hadnโt meant to mess up your well intentioned plans. โItโs fine, just eat up. Think that we cannot afford to eat at those pricey restaurants right now and eat up. Besides, I know you guys love this. Werenโt you craving cup ramyeon even yesterday, Wonwoo?โย
Wonwoo froze in the middle of slurping his noodles, before putting it down and saying, โI said I was craving your noodles.โย
Mingyu let out a gasp, not expecting to be betrayed even by his own roommate, (it was evident Wonwoo hadnโt listened to his lecture about not betraying roommates) but it was swallowed by your laughter. He turned to look at you just as you stopped, chuckling at him as though still enjoying the joke.ย
The dim lights of the neon signboard hit you at an odd angle, but it was enough to make you look like an angel. You let out a giggle as he stared back at you, the smile growing on his face involuntarily. He could see the tiredness from the entire dayโs work on your face, but you kept smiling back at him with such tenderness and love that Mingyu felt like his heart was going to explode.ย
Someone cleared their throat at the table, snapping both of you out of your daze and you immediately knitted your eyebrows back into a frown. โOh gosh, Kim Mingyu! We could have been eating barbeque but now here we are stuck-โ You said, shoving another fish cake packet to his face, โ-eating this amazing, nostalgia inducing food!โ
โOh god, it brings back so many memories.โ Seokmin sobbed, rubbing the corner of his (dry) eyes. Mingyu rolled his eyes at his friendsโ dramatics, but he couldnโt help smiling at them. โIt reminds me of the time Mingyu and I kissed.โ
โWha-โ His voice was caught off as Seungkwan spat out the water he had been drinking, spluttering and gasping for breathe as Wonwoo thumped his back hurriedly. And even though Mingyu too was worried about him, the only thing he could do was let out a cry because unfortunately for him, he had been sitting opposite to the Seungkwan, causing all the spat out water to fall on his face.
โSeungkwan!โ He cried as the table erupted in another round of laughter.ย
โOh my god Mingyu, are you crying? Donโt cry baby!โ Joshua asked, mischief laced in his voice. Of all the seats I could have sat on, why did I pick the one next to Joshua? Joshua grabbed a few napkins from the table and began dabbing it on his face, cleaning his โtearsโ. โDonโt cry, Gyu. Weโve got your back always.โ Then dropping his voice a little, he added, โYou know weโve been joking from the very beginning right?โ
Mingyu took the tissues from his hand as he nodded, a small laugh escaping him as he rubbed the rest of his face clean. โYou guys are mental.โ
Suddenly he felt a familiar pair of arms wrap around his torso, causing him to inhale sharply as you leaned against his body, glaring at the other guys. โYeah, why are you pestering my poor baby?โย
Oh god. Oh god. He tried to control his face from heating up, balling his fists so that he didnโt lose his senses due to your scent. Seungkwan must have noticed his sudden change in demeanour because he snorted and said, โThatโs one big baby you have.โ
โBesides,โ Joshua said, pulling him away from your embrace and into his instead. โYou were pestering him earlier too.โย ย
โGetting pestered is just Mingyuโs love language.โ You countered back. โBut of course, it should be only by us. Right Gyu?โ
โI donโt want to be pestered by any of you though?โ He said, to which Joshua pressed his finger to his lips, shushing him. โIf we donโt pester someone as nice as you, someone who can always laugh it off because he knows we are just joking and we actually love him, who else will we pester?โ
โWow,โ Mingyu said sarcastically. โYou guys are such angels. I love my friends who pester me!โย
โI donโt pester you though?โ Wonwoo said, causing โeyโs and โfucking liarโs to rise from around the table. He just laughed at them before raising his can of beer, saying, โTo our friendship!โ
โTo our friendship.โ Everyone echoed back, raising their drinks too, before taking a large sip of it.ย
Mingyu could feel the alcohol slowly settling in his system, a pleasant buzz tingling his entire self. The rest of the night passed by with such speed that one minute he was still eating and joking with his friends and in the next minute he found himself walking beside you, taking you back home.
He had insisted on walking you back home despite your refusal, because apart from knowing that it was dangerous for you to walk alone at night especially in this slightly intoxicated state, he also knew that his own mother would kill him if she came to know that he had let you go just like that.ย
Presently the two of you were walking through an uphill alley, you giggling at some old memory while he complained about the unfairness of it to you.ย
Suddenly you grabbed his arm, causing his heart to skip a beat as you jerked him towards you, looking at him with shining eyes.ย
โGyu,โ you whispered, even though there was no reason to do so, โWant to see something special?โย
โSpecial?โ He asked, his voice a little higher than he had expected it to be. Your face was so close to his that he could almost feel your breath against his neck, gulping slowly to control his breathing. โWe- we have work tomorrow. Donโt you think itโs a bit too late-โ
โOh, donโt be such a spoilsport.โ You scolded him lightly, before smiling at him softly. He prayed to god that the warm, giddy sensation he was feeling in his body was due to the alcohol and not due to how you were smiling at him, eyes shining in a dangerous way as though you were about to show him a secret that was meant only for him.
โOkay.โ He said, straightening up a bit so as to put some distance between the two of you. โBut only if we come back within half an hour-โ
โOh, you can just crash in my house.โ You said, all of a sudden giving him a light shove backwards. He looked at you in surprise as you suddenly took off, screaming at the top of your voice, โRace you to the top!โ
โWhy, you-โ He began, before starting to run too, laughing at your dirty method of cheating. You knew you wouldn't be able to beat him, not when he had such long legs and had a much better stamina than you. But there was no way Mingyu was going to let you win, not when you had decided to win like this.
He caught up with you within a few seconds, throwing his arms around you as he pulled you into a bone crushing hug. You shrieked with laughter as the two of you stumbled, doing your best to break from his grip but all those days in the gym had truly paid off as all you could do was claw at his arms helplessly.ย
โOkay! Okay!โ You yelled, gasping for breath because of how much you were laughing. โYou win! You win, okay?โ But he still didnโt let go, burying his face into your shoulder as he giggled continuously. He could feel that he was losing his grip on you because of his sides aching due to his laughter, but you felt so warm in his arms, your clothes really soft and smelling like you that it made him pull you into him even more.ย
In the back of his mind Mingyu wondered if the two of you were causing too much ruckus so late in the night, but all thoughts were pushed back when you suddenly turned in his arms to face him, wrapping your arms around his neck.ย
Time slowed down as he felt his stomach drop as you beamed at him gently, a soft smile on your beautiful lips as you tilted your head a little, looking at him with nothing but pure adoration. He felt his arms instinctively tighten around your waist, his breath hitching slightly as you leaned into him, noses almost brushing.ย
โThis is it.โ You whispered, your breath ghosting his lips. His mind was swirling as his heart raced, sure you could feel it with how close you were pressed to him. You smelt so, so good; it was enough to cloud all of his judgement. His knees had turned completely jelly at the way you were gazing at him, mouth slightly apart and it took him all his willpower to not drop you as you leaned your entire weight on him.ย
โWh- what is this?โ He asked, finally finding his voice as he forced his mind to come back to the present. He had to focus. He couldnโt let himself sweep away because of this.
The corners of your lips curled up a little, an action Mingyu had always found endearing. โThis is the special thing I wanted to show you.โ
He blinked, trying to process your words. Tearing his eyes away from your face, he looked around slightly bewildered, still not understanding what you meant.ย
You laughed lightly, and he could feel your chest rapidly rising and falling against his. โNo, you idiot. Donโt look around. Just look at me. Us. We are the special thing I wanted to show you.โย
He inhaled sharply at your words, finally the meaning settling in.
You were right. What more could be special to him than the friendship between both of you? The two of you loved each other so much, admitted you loved him platonically, but still, it was such a beautiful thing. The two of your actions and mannerism hadย been shaped by each otherโs influences. He carried a part of you just like you carried a part of him.
โYou're right.โ He said, exhaling slowly as your eyes fluttered due to his breath. โYou are so special to me, Y/N. I- I love you so much Y/N. I love you so much.โ His chest contracted painfully when he said those words but he knew if he didnโt say them, he would combust even if you didnโt get the second meaning of these innocent words.
You sighed contentedly in his arms, before wrinkling your eyebrows in a frown. Then taking in a deep breath you said, โMingyu, I- Iโm terribly sorry for yelling at you that day.โ
โWhat?โ He asked, a little taken aback as he hadnโt expected you to bring that conversation back up for a while, and certainly not now. You just dipped your head low, until your forehead was resting on his shoulder. โIโm sorry. I messed up big time. And I made you feel that I was using you.โ
Something caught his throat at your apology, so he just chose to keep quiet and listen to you, opting to rub small comforting circles on your back instead.
โItโs just that I felt really bad seeing you look so sad on my behalf. Because of me. And I know I asked you back then to pick me up, not to feel hurt but you were right. Because like you said, even if it happened to you I would feel upset. Whether or not you ask me to stay out of it.โ You finally looked up at him, lips slightly apart as your eyes ran all over his face. Even though you werenโt crying, he could see that your eyes had turned glossy. โAnd you were right. I know we already talked about this but still it was half assed so I feel like you deserve this apology. I want you to know that Iโm truly sorry and I donโt want you to get hurt. The best way to make sure you arenโt getting hurt is to by making sure I just donโt jump into relationships. I was never a thousand percent sure of any of my relationships so far and yet I went into them and they all resulted in the same way. So Iโm going to wait for the one that Iโm a thousand percent sure about and only then go for it. How does that sound?โย
โGood.โ He said, giving you a small smile. โI just want you to be happy and take care of yourself, okay?โ
You smiled back at him and nodded, before pushing yourself away from his grip. His disappointment at the loss of warmth soon disappeared when you grabbed his hand and pulled him forward, until you were leading him into an empty park.
โThis,โ You said pointing at the sky. โIs what I actually wanted to show you by the way.โ
โYouโฆwanted to show me the moon? Something we could have seen from your rooftop and reduced the risk of freezing to death while walking through some lonely street?โ
โHahaha. Very funny. Iโm pointing at the stars.โ
He blinked at you, pretending to look offended. โI thought you said we were the special thing you wanted to show me?โ
โYeah, that too. But since you have a very kind and considerate best friend, I even wanted to show you the stars. And as a sorry for the bitch I was.โ If you had said this in an alternate universe where Mingyu and you were dating, he might have dropped some flirty comment about you being the brightest star in his eyes or something but since he wasnโt, he decided to keep it to himself instead.
He followed your suit and craned his neck to see the night sky, not finding a single speck of light in the ink black sheet overhead.
โThereโs no stars, though?โ He asked amusedly, watching you as you swore and kept turning your head, as though changing the angle of observation might help you find one. โI did tell you years ago that light pollution has made it impossible, hasnโt it?โ
โYeah, I know.โ You muttered, still searching for them (Mingyu found it endearing on how persistent you were of showing him the stars and would have fallen for you more if he wasnโt already completely enamoured by you). โI just- I just thought since this was uphill and was a little empty it might be a good spot.โ
That statement caught him off surprise. โYou searched up for this place?โ
Finally you gave up with a sigh, walking towards him in a dejected manner. โYeah, yeah I did. I knew you would walk me home so I spent the entire night yesterday on Google Earth trying to find a good spot.โ Your shoulder slumped a little as you sat down on a bench, Mingyu following suit. โI guess I should have come here physically and checked it before getting you here. Or looked around more on foot instead.โ
โWhat the hell, I literally just told you itโs dangerous for you to roam around in the night on your own.โ He said but it didnโt remove the pout from your face.
โI just wanted to show you how truly sorry I am. That I really, really want you to be happy.โ
He reached over and grabbed your hand, giving it a squeeze. It was surprisingly warm despite how much the temperature had dropped, and he hoped that you too could find comfort in his warmth.ย
โDonโt worry, Y/N. I already forgave you when you said you would finally prioritise yourself. Besides, I can already see Orion up there.โ
โWhat?โ You asked, your head snapping up. โWhere?โ
Mingyu laughed at your eagerness, before you let out a โHey!โ and punched him lightly. โOh please. You are forgetting that Iโm an artist. The best artist you've seen, right?โ He wondered for a second if you still remembered that incident from twenty years ago, when you had claimed that he was the best artist you had ever seen.ย
Your lips stretched into a smile at the memory, causing his heart to jump that it was not only him that remembered such trivial things of your friendship.ย
โYeah,โ You muttered, tightening your grip on his hand as you gently rested your head on his shoulder. โYou are the best artist Iโve ever known. Will always be.โ
As Mingyu rested his head against yours and closed his eyes, he realised just how special the word us was.ย
โGood morning, handsome.โ
Mingyu swivelled on his chair at this weird greeting, only to find Seokmin leaning against the glass door frame, arms crossed over his chest with a rather flirty smirk on his face. He just groaned and rolled his eyes while Joshua just let out a small laugh.ย
โWhat?โ Seokmin asked, looking offended as his smile suddenly dropped, as though his girlfriend had just called him ugly.ย
โGo back to work, Seokmin. Donโt you and Seungkwan have any sound effects to add to the last game?โ Mingyu asked.
Seokmin just stuck his tongue out, before walking over to Joshua, who was still laughing at his antiques. โI wasnโt even talking to you. I was greeting Shua.โ He said, and Mingyu rolled his eyes once again.ย
โWhat brings you here?โ Joshua asked, picking up one of the hundred cups of coffee he and Mingyu had kept in between them and handing it over to Seokmin. But Seokmin just shook his head, opting to take Mingyuโs sandwich instead. He raised his eyebrows a little at Mingyu, asking if he could eat it and the latter nodded. Seokmin took a bite of it, chewing slowly before sitting down on an empty chair.
โSorry, can't really drink coffee much nowadays. And I already had one in the morning. Apparently it dries out your vocal folds and mucus.โ He said. โMakes working for the entire day hard but what else can I do if we are so broke that us sound engineers itself need to record and compose apart from our usual role?โย
โDonโt let Wonwoo hear you about us being broke.โ Mingyu chuckled, before remembering about the other person in the sounds department. โOh my god, how is Seungkwan surviving then?โ
โHe says if he drinks it in excess it will nullify the effect.โ
โOh shit, Seungkwanโs going to retire even before we hit mid life crisis.โ Joshua joked.ย
Seokmin too smiled before pointing at all the coffee cups on their desks. โWell looking at all those cups, I can say the same about the graphics department to be honest.โ
โOh this?โ Mingyu asked, pointing at the cups. โThis isnโt for us, it's for watering the plants.โ
โHeh.โ Seokmin said, before standing up once he had done with the sandwich. โThen you guys will need more of it because we just got a whole new batch of houseplants.โ He placed a file on their desk, clearly another new project, before saying, โGod bless Y/N. Sheโs the best salesperson weโve ever had.โ
โY/N gave this?โ Mingyu asked in amusement, picking up the file to go through it. โShe trusts us too much, considering the fact I already told her we still havenโt finished the last clientโs game yet.โย
โItโs fine.โ Joshua said, leaning back against his chair. โHeโs a nice author. He literally told me, โIt took me a lot of time to come with this huge storyline so I know it will take you guys even more timeโ.โย
โI wish Wonwoo would hire Y/N though.โ Seokmin groaned. โHeโs a great programmer and all but I just donโt get why he hates her so much. He was pretty fine with her at the beginning.โย
Mingyu felt his cheeks burn as Joshua said, โIsnโt it obvious? He canโt stand seeing Y/N use Mingyu even if sheโs clueless. Personally, sometimes when Mingyuโs giving her puppy eyes, I want to scream, cry, throw up and shake her until she starts seeing his feelings.โ
โLooks like Wonwoo isnโt the only blind one among us.โ
Mingyu snorted at this, before adding, โI donโt give her puppy eyes by the way.โ
โYou really donโt know yourself then. You always looked like a dog to me.โ Seokmin commented.ย
โWow. Wow. Iโm going to take that as a compliment.โย
โThink whatever you want. Just because all those girls line up to see your biceps at the gym doesnโt mean I think you are handsome.โ
โAre you salty that you had one less fan girl than Mingyu, Seokmin?โ Joshua asked sweetly to which Seokmin just laughed. โNo way, I have a girlfriend and they all know it. Me and Seungkwan are committed to our beautiful girlfriends. Itโs always the two of you flexing your biceps a little too hard in front of them. At least Wonwoo is chad about it and not like you bitchless losers.โ
โOh no, are you forgetting Wonwooโs new date? That cute girl he met at the grocery store? Also, it's not our fault you guys managed to find love at high school and college. Adult life wasnโt the fun and thrills they had promised us.โ Mingyu complained. โBesides, Iโm in a life long one sided love with my other best friend, not my fault.โ
โYeah, and I had a girlfriend too.โ Joshua said, to which Mingyu and Seokmin deadpanned at him.ย
โYou mean you had a hook up with Wonwooโs ex-secretary.โ
โAnd she just quit the next day. Out of the blue. And no one would have known if Wonwoo didnโt grill us on if we did something to her. Hell he even made you write a thousand times that you will not have office sex. You are lucky it's just the five of us here.โ
Joshua raised his arms defensively. โHey, I told you I donโt know why she quit. I never forced her to do anything. I would never. But the question should be why does Wonwoo need a secretary when heโs actually at the same level as us? Just because opening a gaming company was his initial idea doesnโt mean that he is the CEO now. We all contributed.โ
โAre we all rebelling against Wonwoo today?โ Mingyu asked with a giggle.ย
Seokmin pointed at the door. โShould I go get Seungkwan?โย
โInstead of the secretary, Wonwoo could have hired Y/N. Wasnโt she the topper of her class? I aspire to achieve her dedication.โ Joshua said.
โIn fact, she dropped this file personally this morning. Asked me to imitate her and wish you โhandsome menโ a good morning once it got clearance from Wonwoo.โย
Mingyuโs mouth fell open in disgust. โYou tried imitating her? God, that was so bad I thought you were flirting with us. You captured her horribly.โ
Joshua pointed at Mingyu with wide eyes as he laughed. โSee? This is why Wonwoo won't hire Y/N. She could straight up rob us and Mingyu will jump to her defence even then.โย
He rolled his eyes at them and finally looked down at the file in his hands, trying to skim through the content. Suddenly he felt bile rise up his throat and constrict his air passage as he read more and more, stomach dropping at the rather familiar storyline.ย
โOh my god, itโs so frustrating!โ Seokmin cried, frustratingly wiping away his nonexistent tears. โWhy wonโt Y/N look at you?โ
โDonโt you guys start too.โ Mingyu mumbled, turning back to his desk. He had finally finished reading the storyline of the new game and the frustration of the scene suddenly hit as the air around him changed to seriousness, all the humour from before gone.
โWhatโs wrong?โ He heard Joshua ask but he just shook his head, not wanting to talk about it anymore.ย
โIโm sorry guys. We need to get back to work.โ He said, before switching his computer back on. Through the corner of his eyes he saw Joshua pick up the file and lean in to read, Seokmin peering at it over his shoulders.
โOhโฆโ Seokmin said after some time. โMingyu, Iโm so sorry-โ
โDonโtโ He let out a humourless laugh. โDonโt. Itโs okay. Iโm okay.โ
โNo, you are not.โ Joshua began angrily. โIf Y/N would just-โย
โJust drop it please.โ He cut Joshua off, closing his eyes as he buried his face in his palm. If Y/N could this, if Y/N could that, if only he was a bit more bolder-
โEven a game character manages to confess his love to his best friend and end up together. Just how- just how pathetic am I?โ
He could feel his friendโs sad stares on his back and it just worsened his mood. Every bit of him just wanted to curl into a ball and cry.ย
Why couldnโt he fall out of love with you? Why couldnโt he just stop loving you? Why did you have to be so goddamn perfect in every way that no matter how hard he tried, he still ended up pining for you?
โItโs just a game.โ He said, his voice thicker than he had expected it to be. โItโs just a game. Letโs go back to work.โ
โThis isnโt a date, by the way.โ Mingyu clarified, causing the girl sitting opposite to him to give him a dry look.ย
โItโs not. Itโs a self realisation therapy from your pathetic love life.โ She said, slicing into her meat. Mingyu winced at her words but couldnโt say anything back because, well, she was right.ย
When Minghao had learnt that Y/N had broken up with her umpteenth boyfriend, he had decided to take matters into his own hand and asked (read: forced) Mingyu to go on a date with none other than Joshuaโs sister, Julia.ย
โIf Joshua finds out youโre having a dinner date with me, youโre dead.โ She said, as though being able to read his mind.ย
โAnd if Wonwoo finds out Iโm having a dinner date with his new secretary, Iโm dead. In other words, Iโm in a risky position of being murdered by my best friends.โย
At this, Julia laughed, the mood of the table finally changing from annoyance at being forced to randomly go on a โdateโ to that of one Mingyu was used to whenever he used to play with her everytime he would come over to Joshuaโs house.ย
โItโs okay Dr. Black. Iโll find the culprit and make sure he gets what he deserves. You know how good Iโm at Cluedo.โ
โYeah.โ Mingyu said with a smile at the memory of the younger girl always defeating them at the murder mystery board game. โBut the problem is Wonwoo is too smart while Joshuaโs really creative. It might be hard for you to guess who did it.โย
โItโs fine, donโt worry. Iโm sure all twelve of them want you to be alive for a very long time so that you can get married to Y/N and grow old and boring with her.โ She said, rolling her eyes.
โBy the way, Iโm amazed by all of their deduction skills. Except the four who always hang out with me, I mean. How did they all come to know?โย
โDuh.โ She rolled her eyes at him. โIt was so obvious that even Soonyoung didnโt need to blabber away. Hell, even I knew it before you realised it.โ
โWow, thanks.โ He muttered. โGood to know that Iโm obvious to everyone except that one person I wish would know.โ
Julia chuckled, shaking her head a little. โYou are to blame too. You always run to her beck and call no matter what.โ
โThatโs because-โ Mingyu opened his mouth to explain but she just raised her hand, cutting him off.
โDonโt give me that crap about doing everything for your best friend. Because yes, you should be doing a lot of things for your best friend. But thereโs a limit to everything, Mingyu. Knowingly or unknowingly, sheโs trampling on your feelings. Excess of even good things isnโt healthy for us.โ
His eyes dropped to his food, which suddenly felt unappetizing. He swallowed the food stuck in his throat, feeling a bad taste in his mouth.ย
โBut I- But I just donโt know how to tackle this.โ He whispered, and Julia reached out to hold his hand lightly. He looked up at her and saw the sadness and sympathy in her eyes.ย
โItโs okay.โ She whispered. โItโs okay, Mingyu. We all come across situations where we might feel like we are being trampled by the person we love in some way or the other, even if itโs not their intention. And you know why that happens? Because in that scenario, they arenโt communicating with each other. But all relationships are made on understanding. How can the two of you even be friends if you canโt understand each other? And yet, it is not within our power to be able to completely understand every feeling, emotion and thought of the other person. At that time, you need to communicate. You need to speak out. Ever thought of dropping hints?โย
He stared at her. โ Youโฆwant me to confess to her?โ
She shook her head once more.โNot confess, silly. Stay completely away from Y/N for a week or two. Sort out your thoughts. And then approach her. Objectively speak out your thoughts and feelings to her. She might be taken aback by it but itโs okay, give her some time. Sheโll get back to you.โ
โAnd what if she doesnโt?โ Mingyu asked. His eyes must have been showing his fear because she gave his hand a gentle squeeze before drawing it and sitting back.
โWell then sheโs not the one for you, nor is she a good friend. Whether she says yes or no doesnโt matter. And judging by how you are always by her side whenever she has a breakup, Iโm sure you can accept her no too. But if she runs away without any proper response, then well itโs time to move on. You are a wonderful person, Mingyu. We all want the best for you.โ
He gulped. โI know. I know. But itโs just so- just so hard, you know. I just feel like Iโll lose her. I just feel like Iโll lose.โ
โLose what?โ
โY/N. My love. My best friend. My everything.โ
โYou mean you feel like you are a lose-her.โ
โJulia.โ He said, though he couldnโt help but crack a smile.
โOkay, okay. Sorry. But donโt worry. In that one week youโll stay away from her to organise yourself, Iโll be there with you and help you out. And Iโll make sure all the twelve of us do. You have to, Mingyu. You have to. You have to take a break from her. And think about everything clearly.โย
He smiled at her more brightly this time, head clearing up. She was right. โYeah, yeah. I will. I will, donโt worry. What would I do without you? What would we do without you?โ
โI know right.โ She said, all the seriousness from a minute ago gone as she stuffed an entire piece of bread in her mouth. โThis is why Minghao set you up on a date with me.โ
โFor the last time,โ Mingyu groaned, โthis isnโt a date. Itโs a self realisation therapy from my pathetic love life.โ
โ-self realisation therapy from your pathetic love life.โ
The two of them stared at each other as they said the exact same thing at the same time, before bursting out into laughter.
โSee?โ Julia said after a while, laughter slowly bubbling away. โYou are already getting better as you slowly realise.โ
โYeah, sure.โ Mingyu said. โNow letโs just hope Wonwoo or Joshua doesnโt kill me tomorrow itself when they find out about todayโs plan.โ
โBy the way,โ She said, biting into the last morsel of bread. โIโm curious about my job offer. Why did Wonwoo ask me if I wanted to become his secretary? Not that Iโm complaining since Iโve always been envious of the projects Seokmin, Seungkwan, Joshua and you used to do but yeah, Iโm just curious because this was quite sudden.โ
โOh that.โ Mingyu coughed, not sure how he was supposed to answer this question when it could lead to his partial balding in case Julia pulled his hair in anger. โSo, um, Joshua. He, uh, he had sex with Wonwooโs old secretary so I guess he wants you to keep an eye on-โ
โHe did what?!โ She spluttered, proceeding to stand up and then froze, eyes looking at something behind Mingyu in horror.ย
Just as Mingyu was about to turn to see what had happened, someone behind him let out a yell.
โTaehyung, I already told you no!โย
The familiar voice caused him to turn faster than he had expected, and he nearly jumped out of his seat to get to you. In two strides he was by your side, yanking the manโs hand away from your arm.
He could feel your shocked face on him but he ignored it, choosing the focus on the man in his grip who was making his blood seethe in anger. โWhat the fuck,โ he said, his voice coming out much lower than he had expected, โDo you think you are doing?โ
โAnd who the fuck are you?โ The man glared, trying to yank his hand out of Mingyuโs grasp but he just tightened it, not letting the man budge even a bit. Through the corner of his eyes, he could see a few staff come over to them to break the fight, but all he could see was red, especially when your next few words came out in a scared whisper.ย
โG-Gyu.โ You whispered and he felt a small tugging at his elbow. โYou donโt have to-โ
โGyu? Oh, so you are Gyu? Well fuck off asshole before I beat the shit out of you for ending everything between us.โ
โWe ended because of you.โ You said and Taehyung snarled at you, causing Mingyu to give his hand another squeeze, diverting Taehyungโs attention back to him.ย
โYou were just fucking paranoid, you bastard. Donโt even try to blame it on others. Y/Nโs better off without you.โ
โOh yeah?โ He sneered. โAnd how would you know that considering the fact you are the reason we broke up?โ
What? As if I could even make a move on Y/N. But instead he said, โIs that so? Well good for her then. My girlfriend doesnโt need to date insecure idiots like you.โย
Mingyu felt the air around him drop as the three people around him (Julia had managed to pry you off him) stared at him, but he just prayed that you wouldnโt look very surprised and give away the lie.
In fact, he was sure Taehyun would begin laughing at their faces but that seemed to do the trick. His eyes darted between Mingyu and you, sputtering out words as his face reddened with each passing second.
โYou- you- you cheater!โ He began, pointing an accusing finger at you. โYou liar, you slu-โ
โThatโs enough.โ Mingyu growled, grabbing Taehyungโs collar to drag him out of the restaurant, which wasnโt so hard considering the differences in their builds (he never thought that going to the gym would help him out in this way). Once outside, he let go of the other man, eyeing him disgustedly.
โStay away from Y/N.โ He said flatly, pushing the man a little when he tried to hurl himself at Mingyu. He saw Julia and you come down through the stairs slowly, the former holding you gently as you made your way down. โIf not, Iโll call the police on you and maybe even get a restraining order.โ
โFuck, a restraining order just because I want to get back to her? You are as fucking messed up as that bitch.โ He growled.
โI will call the police right now if you donโt stop calling my girlfriend names like that. Besides, what you are doing is stalking. So get lost now before I actually remove the front two teeth of yours.โ
Holding his wrist gingerly, Taehyung gave the trio another disgruntled group, before turning the other direction and walking away, muttering something about mental people ending up together.
As Mingyu watched his figure disappear down the street, he could feel the adrenaline rush quickly disappearing from his veins. The cool night air pressed against him as he felt his body temperature finally come down from its previous risen state, chest rising up and down as he tried to control his breathing slowly.
Mingyu turned to look at you, and felt his heart clench painfully as he took in your shrunken appearance, nodding vigorously as Julia whispered into your ear, rubbing circles on your back. Walking up to you, he took your hands in his and sighed, before asking, โAre you okay?โ
Your eyes darted to his and stayed there, lips slightly parted, taking in his features as though it was the first time you were seeing him. You stared at him for a few seconds before Mingyu asked again, feeling worry cloud his mind. โY/N?โ
Saying your name seemed to snap you out of your trance as you jerked away from him, removing your hands from his as you rubbed your arms.
โYeah.โ You said, your voice strained as your eyes roamed over his face with an unreadable expression. Now he was getting really worried. What else had Taehyung done to you? Had it happened before? Though Mingyu knew about your obsessive ex, you had never mentioned to him about Taehyung disturbing you before.ย
โYeah, Iโm fine.โ You said, finally looking down. โThank you for pretending to beโฆmy boyfriend.โ The way you said โmy boyfriendโ sounded foreign to Mingyuโs ears, like you were having difficulty pronouncing it. It did hurt him a bit but he was more preoccupied by the way you were acting.
He sighed, taking off his jacket and draping it over your shoulders. โYou are not fine.โย
โI- I-โ You opened your mouth to speak but then closed it, as though still trying to figure out whether or not you were okay. Mingyu could see your mind running in a million different directions so he figured it would be better if you could slowly jot down your thoughts in a more comfortable place.
Turning to Julia, he said, โIโm taking Y/N back home. Iโll drop you on the way, okay?โ
โNo, itโs okay. Iโll take a cab. Donโt worry about me. Just get Y/N back home safely, okay?โ She said, already taking out her phone to book an Uber. With a jolt, Mingyu suddenly realised how much Julia had grown up and that she was no longer the small girl who used to peep into her older brotherโs room through the curtains.ย ย
โOkay. But give me a call when you reach, okay?โ He said as she waved them goodbye before getting into the taxi. Then turning to you, he gave his hand and you took it, though you were avoiding his eyes once more.
Even the ride back to your place was filled with silence and though Mingyu wanted to ask you about what had just happened, he could feel that your thoughts were completely preoccupied. It was only when he parked the car in front of your house did you speak up.
โGyu.โ You said, finally turning to look at him. He froze when he saw glassy your eyes were, your bottom lip trapped by your teeth as you bit onto it to prevent yourself from crying.ย
โY/N?โ He asked worriedly, grabbing your hand with one hand as he cupped your face with the other. โY/N, whatโs wrong? Is it Taehyung? Did he hurt you? Has he done it before? When did it-โ
โItโs not him.โ You said with a sniffle, screwing your eyes shut as the first tear fell, leaning into Mingyuโs touch. He felt his heart squeeze painfully and he gently wiped away your tears with his thumb. โItโs not him. Donโt worry about him, itโs- He just happened to meet me here today and he started acting like that but itโs- but itโs-โ
โItโs what?โ Mingyu asked gently and you opened your eyes to look at him. Taking in another shuddering breath to control your tears, you said, โI- I just realised something this evening. And I- and I donโt know how to deal with it.โ
Worry grew in him as he took in your words. โWhat is it? You can tell me everything, you know that, right?โ
โYeah. Yeah, I know.โ You whispered, shaking your head. You placed your other hand on his and gave it a squeeze, as though trying to find comfort in his touch. โI donโt even know how to say it though. I- I think I will mess it up.โ
โOkay. Okay. Itโs okay.โ He whispered, slowly rubbing small circles on the back of your hand in an attempt to calm you down. โBreath with me. Breath Y/N. Itโs going to be okay. Iโm there right here. Iโll always be there for you.โย
โI know. I know. I just- donโt know what to do about it.โ You rambled, still crying.
Mingyuโs mind was in a whirlwind. For the first time in twenty years, he couldnโt understand what you were talking about, what you were implying or what was making you cry.ย
It was certainly not Taehyung. And it was definitely not something he had said or else you would have been uncomfortable around him. So what had happened this evening that had broken you down like this?
โGyu.โ You sobbed, leaning into the crook of his neck as you buried your face in his shoulder. โGyu, Iโm so sorry for this. Iโm so so sorry.โ Sorry for what? โPromise me youโll never hate me. I can never hate you too. Iโll love you forever. But promise me youโll love me forever too. No matter what happens.ย
โI promise.โ He said, the only response from you being your sobs getting louder as you dug your fingers into his shoulder deeply. And unlike all the other promises Mingyu had made to you, he intended to keep this one.
โHi.โ Mingyu said with a smile, extending his umbrella over your head as he came and stood beside you. Though you were not getting wet, he could see that you were shivering slightly from the cold, rubbing your arms as the rain dripped from the narrow beam sheltering you and fell into the puddle forming right in front of both of you.
You looked up at him just as you sucked in a breath sharply, staring at him with such wide eyes that your pupils were completely blown out. He cocked his head to a side worriedly, smile faltering a little as you continued to stare at him.ย
โY/N?โ He asked softly, taking a step closer until he could wrap an arm around your waist. โAre you okay?โ
You blinked at him, looking away shyly as you muttered a small โyeahโ, finger digging into your arms as you tried hiding your face from him. Mingyu frowned, taken aback by the sudden change of behaviour. Were you shy in front of him?
โHey.โ He said, this time a bit more louder as he gently tugged you towards him until he was practically hugging you, resting his chin on top of your head. He moved his arm up to your elbow, rubbing small circles on it, causing you to let out a sigh as you finally turned to him, burying your face into his neck. โWhatโs wrong?โ
โNothing.โ You muttered, wrapping your arms around his torso as though trying to engulf yourself in his warmth completely. He felt his heart squeeze at your endearing action, a chuckle escaping him as he let you stay in that position, enjoying the sound of rain.
โIs it Taehyung?โ He finally asked, breaking the silence after a while. Your head shot up as you looked at him in surprise, as though caught completely off guard by his question. โTae- What? No! Of course not. Donโt worry, I havenโt had the time to think about him.โ
Mingyu hummed in response, asking you to go on. You rested your head against his shoulder once again, pausing a little as though thinking about how to go on. โIโve been thinking aboutโฆsomething. Something else. A lot of things actually, so uh, Iโve been feeling tired for the past few days.โย
โCare to tell me whatโs running in your pretty head so that I can lessen your burden?โ He felt you relax into his touch but then stiffen almost immediately, slowly slipping out of his grip. He let the arm holding you drop as you made some space between the two of you, still close enough for him to feel your body warmth.ย
He watched you with worry as you chewed on your lips, before looking at him with a rather obviously forced smile. โNope, you unfortunately canโt.โ You said, the smile still plastered on your face. โItโs work related so of course itโs out of your domain.โ
โOkayโฆโ He said slowly, still uncertain but deciding to drop the subject for now. โSo, uh, you said Chaewon wanted to see me?โ
โShe wanted to see us.โ You corrected and even though you had meant it as a joke, Mingyuโs mind couldnโt help but replay that night when you had said us was the special thing you had wanted to show and he felt his heart lighten up a bit at the reminder of it.
But in front of you, he rolled his eyes. โFine, us. Why did she want to meet us?โ
You shrugged. "Said she had to give us somethi-"
"Mingyu!" Someone called him just as he felt a new arm drape around his neck, its owner wedging herself between him and you. He blinked for a second as the heavy smell of perfume and loss of warmth overtook him, before smiling back at the woman flashing all her teeth at him. "How are you?"
"I'm good. What about you, Chaewon?" He asked, gently detaching himself from her powerful grip. "How's work?"
"It's being a pain in the ass so of course I'm not fine." She said with a laugh that Mingyu too returned (politely). โAnyways, Iโve got a surprise for both of you!โย
โYeah, yeah. Youโve been going on and on about the surprise but what is it actually? You said, rolling your eyes a bit. Mingyu had never realised how cute you looked when you were annoyed but right now, you looked absolutely adorable, with your eyebrows slightly knotted together as you huffed out a breath.ย
โSoโฆโ Chaewon drawled, looking at either of them once before pulling out something from her pocket. โI got you us tickets for the 9Muses!โย
Mingyu blinked at her, feeling his cheeks pull into a smile as a new found excitement erupted in his heart. โWait- 9Muses? Really?โย
Chaewon smiled back at him superiorly as she waved four tickets in front of his face. โYeah, yeah. I know, Iโm awesome. You can thank me later on when you and your future girlfriend finally hit off.โ
The last statement caused him to pause, eyes darting to you as a force of habit before looking back at Chaewon in surprise. โFutureโฆgirlfriend?โย
She meant you, right? It wasnโt the first time people had mistaken the two of you for a couple but Chaewon had known you since college which could only mean that she was referring to-
โIโve set you up for a blind date!โ She said excitedly, but Mingyu could feel the colour draining from his face as an ugly sensation rose up his throat. โThatโs why I actually have four tickets-โ
โYou did what?โ You asked, causing him to look at you in surprise. You were looking at Chaewon in complete shock with your mouth slightly open, as though you could not believe what she had just done. Chaewon too seemed to be taken aback by your reaction, because her next few sentences came out in a stammer.ย
โI- I thought- You told me you were sad that Mingyu was never in a relationship so I thought- โ
โI-โ You began, but stopped when you looked at him, immediately averting your eyes to the ground instead. Something was wrong. Something was bothering you from the very beginning but Mingyu could tell that something about this proposal had upset you even more. But what was it? Did you not want to go to the concert?ย
โYeah. Yeah I did say that.โ Then looking up at him, you gave him a smile, though he could see that you were battling with something deep inside. โYou should totally take that person out as you date. Who knows, you both might hit it off really well, huh?โ
Even though he had prepared himself for this very situation many times before, these words coming from you still hit him with a blow. It had been years since he had gone on a date with your friend Suji and yet it still hurt him freshly that you were this eager to give him away to someone else so readily. He was still okay with you always dating someone else but everytime you would try to get him to go out with someone, it would hurt him even more.
But instead, he smiled back at you and nodded to your words. โYeah, who knows? We might actually end up dating.โย
You laughed at his statement, hitting him on the shoulder lightly. โOh my god, I canโt wait to babysit my nephews and nieces.โ
โExcuse me?โ Mingyu gasped, giving you a look of disgust. โThatโs too far, donโt you think?โย
โWell, you are such a gentleman that it would be stupid for anyone to let you go.โ Chaewon commented with a smile and Mingyu felt his cheeks heat up a little.ย
โItโs nothing like that.โ He muttered. He felt you reach out for his hand and give it a squeeze, causing him to look at you. You smiled at him softly, before saying, โDonโt say that, Gyu. You are the kindest and sweetest person in this world. Anyone would want to be with a wonderful person like you.โ
Then why donโt you want to?
But before he could retort to your compliment that had him almost weak in his knees, Chaewon clapped both of you on your backs. โOkay, then! Itโs decided. Iโll send you the details later on, Mingyu. See you on Sunday!โย
โYeah, bye!โ Mingyu waved at the two of you as Chaewon produced an umbrella (practically out of nowhere) and wrapped an arm around you and darted across the street. He watched the two of you with a smile as you struggled to keep up with your friendโs pace, finally breaking free from her grasp when you both reached the other end. Turning back, you waved at him one final time before slipping into your car.
He waited for your car to completely disappear down the street before stepping out into the rain himself, his heart weighing down more and more with each step he took.ย
Time to brace yourself again, Mingyu.ย
โPerfume. Check. Breath mints. Check. Keys. Check.โ Mingyu muttered, going over his things that he was supposed to carry one last time before he actually left. Glancing at the mirror one last time, he smiled to himself, patting down his hair to fix his hairstyle.
Be happy, Mingyu! You are going to a 9Muses concert. And you look fine.ย
Then why doesnโt Y/N think I look good?
The very reminder of you brought up the bile to his throat, his smile dropping almost immediately as he let out a sigh. Exhausted, he crashed onto his sofa massaging his throbbing temples that had been hurting ever since Friday due to his complicated thoughts.
He was going to go to the concert of his favourite band. With you. And with a pretty girl that could potentially be his future girlfriend if things went well tonight.ย
Then why did he feel like throwing up at the very thought of holding someone elseโs hand that wasnโt you? Why did his skin crawl at the thought of smiling, laughing and flirting with someone that wasnโt you?
He felt so sick that a small part of him didnโt even want to go to the concert now. The fact that he would be on a date with another girl with you right beside him was suffocating him so much that he really felt like he was going to die.
He could feel himself shrinking back to his fifteen year old self, when he was on a date and he felt like throwing up. Back then he didnโt know why. But now that he did, it felt even more worse.ย
Mingyu glanced at the clock on his wall, before closing his eyes to calm himself down. He still had an hour to go and pick up Yoobin and then drive to the concert. If he could just-
The doorbell suddenly rang, jerking him out of his thoughts and he sat up straight, frozen as to what to do next.
Who could it be at this time? He wasnโt expecting anyone. It certainly wasnโt Wonwoo as he had gone for a week to live with his parents. Lately, there had been a lot of burglaries in his neighbourhood. It couldnโt beโฆ?
โSnap out of it.โ He muttered, slapping himself lightly before getting up to go and get the door. He was sure that it was a dinner delivery at the wrong address and swung open the door, ready to tell the delivery man he was at the wrong house.ย
But when he opened the door, he found himself staring at you, you who were completely dressed up for the concert and definitely not supposed to be here, you who looked so stunning that Mingyu momentarily forgot to speak until you broke the silence.ย
โDonโt go out with her.โ
โWhat?โ Mingyu asked, snapping out of his reverie as he tried processing your statement. What were you talking about?
You took a step closer to him and repeated your statement. โDonโt go out with her. Yoobin. Donโt go out with her.โ
You reached out to him but all he could react to your statement was by taking a step back instead, feeling even more confused about what you were talking about.
โWhat do you mean? Whatโs wrong?โ He asked. You opened your mouth and closed it, before taking in another step towards him so that you were inside the house now.ย
Taking in a shaky breath, you whispered. โPlease donโt go out with her, Gyu. I know itโs very selfish of me but I-โ
Swiftly, Mingyu closed the door behind you before pulling you close to him by your waist, cupping your face in his hands. โHey,โ he whispered, as you froze in his touch, eyes going glassy with tears. He could feel himself panicking at the thought that maybe someone had hurt you badly but he tried to keep himself calm. โWhatโs wrong? Tell me whatโs wrong, love. Youโve been acting so different these few days and now this-โ
โItโs because I love you.โ You choked, tears finally streaming down your cheeks. โI love you, Gyu. I love you. I love you so, so much.โ
Now it was Mingyuโs time to freeze. His brain seemed to slow down by a million years as a loud ringing filled his ears instead, stomach dropping like he was on a roller coaster. What did you just say?
You covered his hands with yours, gently removing them from your cheeks and holding them in yours instead as you whispered. โIโm so sorry. Iโm so, so sorry Mingyu. I know Iโm really selfish but please donโt go out-โ
The rest of your rambling was completely cut off as he smashed his lips against yours, fireworks immediately exploding in his heart. He felt you drop his hands as you wrapped it around his arms, fingernails digging into his skin as you held onto him while you kissed him back as passionately as he was kissing you. Every bit of Mingyuโs perception was drowned out as you took over his senses, and the only thing he could think and feel was you, you and you.
He ran his one hand fervently against your back while the other pulled you impossibly closer by your waist. His entire skin tingled as you ran your mouth over his again and again, tangling your finger in his locks.ย
Mingyu couldnโt believe it. He just couldnโt believe it. If it wasnโt for the excess blood pumping to his ears and his heart threatening to swell and burst out of love and happiness, he would have been sure that this was just a dream.ย
Finally, you pulled away, gasping for breath, and the loss of warmth caused him to chase after your lips, desperate to get back that euphoric feeling of kissing you.
You laughed lightly as you placed a hand over his chest to stop him, tears once again flowing down your cheeks. Mingyu rested his forehead against yours, cupping your face gently with one hand as you leaned in to his touch even more.ย
โI waited for you so long.โ He whispered, and you screwed your eyes shut, nodding to his statement. โI loved you for so, so long. So long.โ
โIโm sorry.โ You whispered back, opening his eyes to look at him. โIโm so sorry I never realised I loved you and even when I did, I didnโt approach you.โ
At this, Mingyu shook his head, resting both of his hands on the small of your back as you cupped his face, staring at him so softly and with so much love that he could feel his knees going weak. โDonโt apologise. I just- I just wish that I had kissed you in a more romantic setting-โ
โOh, Gyu.โ You said, brushing your lips against his, causing his brain to short circuit once again. โThis was the best kiss Iโve ever had. Itโs you who made it so romantic. Doesnโt matter that I barged into your house an hour before we left.โ
โI think it should matter.โ He said with a pout. โAfter all, you did barge into my house.โย
You pressed a quick kiss on his lips in response. โAnd what should I do to make up for it, baby?โย
Mingyu didnโt think it was possible to fall in love with you more than he already was but somehow, impossibly, you calling him baby had him falling for you even more. The entire world around him had dimmed as he could see only your face, eyes shining and lips quirked in a cocky smile.ย
He didnโt even realise he was staring at you until you reached up and kissed him softly again, closing his mouth that had been slightly open. โGyu.โ You murmured. โI asked you a question.โ
โHuh?โ He asked, too busy kissing you back. Was your heart supposed to dance like this whenever you kissed someone? He wasnโt even sure if his stomach dropping so much as your hands ran over his back was a good sign.
โI asked what I should do to make it up to you.โย
Oh. His eyes flicked to your lip gloss smudged lips, which were swollen and this time Mingyu felt a different kind of feeling spark in his heart. A desire to ruin you even more.ย
โWell,โ he said, kissing the corner of your lips. โYou could let me worship you.โ Another kiss on your jawline, causing you to sigh. The sound shot up a shiver down his spine and he wondered if he would be able to survive even the night. โLet me show you how much Iโve loved and wanted you for all these years.โ
โYes, but,โ you said, pushing yourself away from him. โI should be the one making up to you.โ Saying that, you pushed him, not too hard, but enough for him to stumble back and fall on the sofa (thank god the sofa happened to be there. Mingyu wasnโt sure if he would be able to live with the embarrassment had he fallen on his ass instead.)
He watched you in awe as you climbed onto his lap, straddling him as you wrapped your arms around his neck and he found himself grabbing you by your waist to pull you in closer. You looked so sexy that Mingyu was sure he had ascended to heaven.
You leaned down to capture his lips in yours again, feeling your thumb gently stroke his jawline. He could taste your lip gloss, igniting that fire in the pit of his stomach again as he licked your bottom lip to get more of it.ย
You opened your mouth a little more and his tongue accidentally slipped in, and Mingyu couldn't help but dig his nails into your skin in an attempt to cover up his groan. Your mouth was so wet and warm against his, tongue gliding over each otherโs as you both fought for dominance.
He quickly broke the kiss, before moving to kiss the soft skin right below your ears.
โGyuโฆโ You hummed, the sound sending a shiver through his dick. He really wanted to elicit more of those sounds from you now, so he grazed his teeth lightly into the skin, causing a gasp to escape you. Immediately he soothed the area with his tongue, your gasp turning into a very low moan as pulled at the locks of his hair near his neck. โGyu, I love you so much.โ
โI love you too. Iโve always loved you, angel. And Iโll love you forever.โ He whispered back, leaving trails of kisses on your neck as he moved downwards, finally stopping at the hollow of your neck. By now, he had realised that the best way to get you undone was by grazing his teeth against your skin and then soothing the area with his tongue.ย
But when you shifted slightly on his lap to move even more closer for him, he felt his dick twitch and another groan escaped him. It felt so good, and so, so right doing this with you, whatever the two of you were even doing. Your head was completely thrown back as Mingyu marked love bites all over your neck, gripping on his hair as you grinded down on him. Your moans had gotten much louder by now and with each sound he got out of you, he could feel his dick getting harder and harder.ย
Each time your cunt rubbed against his dick, mingyu felt a small relief wash over him but it just wasnโt enough; he wanted more of it, more of you and he wanted you to want him equally as much.ย
โGyu.โ You whispered, all of a sudden, causing him to pause. He looked at you with widened eyes, panic gripping him that he had done something wrong. โWhatโs wrong? Did I hurt you?โ
โCan you- can you take off your shirt? If you are okay with it? Or else-โ
โYeah, Iโm okay with it, princess. A hundred percent okay. Okay with whatever you do.โ He said, reaching downward to pull off his shirt but felt your hands stop him, causing him to look at you in surprise.
You were looking at him with guilt and a bit of sadness, before you reached down to press a soft kiss on his lips.
โDonโt say that, Gyu. Donโt say that, please. Iโve been hurting you all these years. Knowingly or unknowingly. So donโt- donโt say that, okay? Iโll make it up to you. I promise.โ You said.
For some reason, Mingyu felt his heart soften at your words. It was like a huge knot that had tangled his heart, not allowing it to beat and causing him pain for all these years had finally opened, releasing him from all pain. He smiled at you and nodded, and you slowly let go of his arms, allowing him to take off his shirt finally.
Mingyu always knew he had a great build. He took pride in how well he took care of his body and was kind of used to people complimenting him.
But nothing prepared him for the way you were looking at him right now, like he was some god who had just materialised in front of you. As soon as his shirt was off you sucked in a deep breath, your teeth sinking into your lower lips. Your eyes flicked all over his body, pupils darkening as you took in his physique.
He had never felt so bare in front of anyone and yet, it felt really good being like this in front of you. You lifted your hand slightly and placed it in front of his chest, looking at him for permission. When he nodded a yes, you let your hand finally touch, fingers trailing gently over his toned chest.
It was like you had set his skin ablaze; he could feel where your fingers had trailed against his now warm skin. A low moan escaped his throat when you gently brushed your finger against his nipple, causing you to smirk. Fuck, you were so hot.
โYou are so handsome, baby. And so, so hot.โ You said, leaning down to kiss his jaw this time. Another moan escaped him as you too repeated his action, sucking on the soft skin of his neck before licking it with your tongue. Your hands that were roaming all over his body were making his skin hotter with each second, which was doing nothing to give relief to his achingly hard dick.ย
โCan you take these off for me too?โ You asked sweetly, tugging at his belt. Though he was mildly annoyed that you had climbed off his lap, resulting in the loss of your touch, he quickly jumped off the sofa and undid his belt, shimmering out of his jeans before turning to look back at you.
Your eyes now flicked all over his body as you took in his entire appearance, and he felt his dick twitch under your gaze. Your eyes then moved up to meet his, smiling so tenderly at him that Mingyu had to sit back down to make sure he didnโt melt into a puddle then and there. You climbed back onto his lap, straddling him as you wrapped your arms around his neck.
โHi, love.โ You whispered with a smile, bumping your nose against his.ย
โHi.โ Mingyu said, mirroring back your smile.ย
โCan I ride you?โย
He found himself nodding to your question, anticipation eating away his heart as you tugged onto the band of his underwear, and he raised his hips a little as you both pulled it off. A tiny bit of relief flooded him as his hard dick sprang free, finally able to breath a little.
Mingyu watched you as you took him in with hooded eyes, letting out a sigh of relief as you brushed your thumb against his now angry red tip, already leaking with precum.ย
โArenโt you- Arenโt you going to take off your clothes?โ He asked and you shook your head in negative. โAfter some time. Youโre so pretty, Gyu.โ You replied, wrapping your hand around his length and giving it a gentle squeeze. He thought he could see stars as his head fell back with a groan, hips jerking up to chase your hand as you removed it.
โDonโt tease me.โ He hadnโt meant it to come out as a whimper, just as a request, but right now he was so desperate for you that he didnโt care if he sounded this pathetic.ย
โSorry baby.โ You said, but you were smirking, clearly enjoying the power play here. And for that reason, that made him even harder (if that was even possible) for you. You raised your hip up and slipped your hand underneath your skirt to pull your panties aside.ย
Then slowly, you sunk down. He felt your warm and wet pussy envelope just his tip, and a groan ripped from his throat at the feeling. Your hips too stuttered as you let out a moan, pausing to take in a deep breath. Mingyu could see that you were fighting with yourself to not sink in completely from the way your nails were digging into his shoulders.ย
He didnโt know what came over him but he was so done with playing gentleman with you, so tired of not being able to feel you fully, so sick of keeping himself away from you that he found himself grabbing your hips and pulling you down as slowly as he could.
When you finally bottomed out, the two of you letting out a moan in unison. Mingyuโs eyes rolled back as he felt your warm walls flutter around his length, trying to adjust to the size. The erratic squeezing was not helping him keep his composure and he could already feel his balls squeezing, ready to let go any second from now.
โMingyu.โ He heard you whine, the sound shooting straight up to his brain as his eyes snapped open to look at you. You looked back at him with complete adoration, and Mingyu felt his insides melt, leaning towards you to capture your lips in his.
The kiss was short lived though; as you raised your hips slightly, before bringing it down with a slam. He broke the kiss to groan loudly against your lip as your pussy clenched around his length once more, before you swallowed his moans with another kiss.ย
He felt your hot tongue slip into his mouth, drowning all his moans as you raised your hips once again and brought it down. Gently, you picked up the pace, a small pressure forming in his lower abdomen.ย
โYouโre so beautiful, do you know that?โ You whispered, his moans increasing as you sucked his lower lip. โSo, so beautiful and so perfect. I love you so much Mingyu.โย
Mingyu felt his balls tighten at your words, the knot in his stomach growing tighter and tighter as you whispered soft praises into the skin of his neck, sucking and marking at the soft skin.ย
โI love you. I love you too.โ He whimpered back, burying his face into the crook of your neck. You ran your hand through the strands of his hair as he clutched your waist, trying to find something to ground himself too. The coil was getting too tight, too tight for him to hold himself back and you squeezing the life out of his dick was definitely not helping the situation.ย
โAre you- are you close, Gyu?โ You asked, and he nodded. You felt so good, just so good, with the way your warm and wet walls were pulsing around him, causing ecstasy to shoot through his veins.ย
But now he could feel you slowing down a bit, obviously tired from riding him. You didnโt say anything though, and Mingyu could see you were trying to live up to your promise. So instead he relaxed into the sofa a bit more, before snapping up his hips to meet you halfway.
The sound that ripped through your throat was like music to his ears and he could feel himself threatening to burst, body threatening to snap under the intensity of pressure he was feeling.
โBaby-โ He gasped. โBaby, I canโt- I canโt-โ
โLet go.โ You choked, slamming your lips against his to steal his breath away.
And that was enough for the coil in his stomach to snap. White hot pleasure coursed through his veins as a ringing sound took over his ears, all senses hindered as he lost himself in the bliss. Another groan stumbled out of his lips as you too finally came, doubling his pleasure as you coated his cock with your warm liquid, squeezing it as though to take in all his cum.
He wrapped his arm around you more tightly so that now both of your bodies were practically one, sweat and cum mixing with each other as both of you tried to catch your breaths.ย
After some time, Mingyu felt you ruffle his hair lightly and he finally peeled away from you, only to look up at you. You gave him a tired smile and he felt his heart squeeze, wondering for the millionth time how he had ended up with an angel like you.ย
โHi.โ You giggled, brushing your nose against his as you fondly cupped his cheeks.ย
He felt himself melt into your touch as he smiled back, quickly pressing a soft kiss against your lips. โWhat just happened?โ
You laughed at his question and wrapped your arms around his neck, engulfing him in your scent as he buried his face into your neck.. The two of you stayed like that for sometime, just enjoying each otherโs presence as the only sound heard was your rapid heartbeats and the sound of your slightly laboured breaths.
โI love you, Mingyu. Always had.โ
โHmm?โ He hummed, kissing your collar bone.ย
โYeah. I realised thatโs why I could never be in a happy relationship with anyone. And why they always complained that I wasnโt interested in them.โ Your voice had dropped a little and he could sense your sadness, so he began rubbing soft circles on your back to calm you down. โI kept searching for you in them. I kept searching for you. And- and all this time- all this time I-โ
โShhh. Itโs okay princess.โ He whispered, looking up to meet your eyes. He smiled at you gently. โItโs okay princess. We are here together now, and thatโs all that matters.โ
You stared at him for a second, before whispering. โI hurt you.โ
โYou also hurt yourself, baby. But now, we can help each other out. We can pick up our broken pieces and fix them. This time, together.โ
โOh Mingoo.โ You said with a soft smile. The old nickname reignited a flame in his chest, and all of a sudden, all the years he had spent with you, all the beautiful and sad memories the two of you had created together flashed before his eyes. โWhat did I do to get you?โ
โNo, what did I do to get you?โย
You giggled, leaning down to kiss his chin. โThank you for waiting for me, Gyu.โ
โWhat happened to Mingoo?โ
โI thought you hated it.โ
โI could never hate anything about you or anything that you call me.โ
โSoโฆI can call you mine?โ
โOkay, stop.โ He groaned, and you let out a laugh. โYouโre terrible at jokes.โย
โGod, and you think youโre very funny right?โ You wiggled your eyebrows at him, as though it was a challenge.
โOf course! Do you know how many girls have come up to me at work and told me Iโm so funny?โย
โThere are no girls at your work. Only four other guys who bully you like shit.โย
โFine, at cafes.โ
โDonโt lie- Oh!โ Your eyes widened in horror and Mingyu felt his stomach drop, panic seizing him. โWhatโs wrong? Did I hurt-โ
โThe concert! Your date!โ You gasped, hitting him slightly on the shoulder. Then you began climbing off his lap but he caught you and moved you back, hands firmly on your waist as you struggled slightly. โGyu, weโll be late-โ
โOh, I donโt think we can go to the concert anyways. Iโll just text Yoobin about it.โ You froze at his words, looking at him in complete surprise. โWhat do you mean?โย
โYou still have to make it up to me.โย
Mingyu could see the gears turning in his head as you took in his words, before your lips broke into a smirk. โRight. Right, I do. But what about 9Muses? Arenโt they your favourite band?โ
โNo 9Muses can compare to me spending time with you. Besides, I can go to a million other concerts now that you are by my side.โ
You laughed at his response, before asking, โCan we move to a more comfortable room then, sir?โ
He felt his cock which was still inside your warm pussy stir to life once more at the nickname, and his head filled up with thoughts of how he could fill you up once again, make you feel good and make you his forever.
โOf course love. Can I- Can I ask you a question?โ He asked as you got off him, nodding at his question as you tried to stand with your shaking legs. Mingyu quickly caught you before you stumbled and you wrapped your arms around him and smiled softly, almost causing him to fall instead because of just how pretty you looked. And because of just how much he loved you.
โRemember- remember our promise? To marry each other if we were still single when we are thirty? Will you- Would you-โ
You cut off his statement by pressing your lips against his, but this was unlike any other of the kisses the two of you had just shared. This one was the softest, and yet the most loving kiss Mingyu had ever been given. He felt himself completely surrender to your unspoken confession, letting you glide your hand over his chest until you were cupping his chin, his own hands wrapped around your waist and back, engulfing you with his large body. A tiny realisation flickered at the back of his brain; that he was completely naked while you hadnโt taken off a single article of clothing, not even your panties, but something about your kiss made him feel safe and protected, as though being vulnerable was out of the question.
The two of your lips moved against each other ever so softly, like you had all the time in this world to make for what you had lost over the years. He could feel his heart swelling with love, and he felt his stomach drop with happiness when he felt your heartbeat racing too.ย
Finally, you broke apart the kiss, looking up to him with soft, tender eyes. The fairy lights behind you were giving you a soft glow, and Mingyu was sure that he had just fallen for you even more.ย
โMarry you?โ You asked, and he found himself nodding at your question. For some reason, he was no longer scared of your rejection, and the sense of doubt vanished completely when you smiled at him softly. โYes. Yes I will, Kim Mingyu. Iโll marry you any day and any time. Iโll marry you even if the world says no, even if the world is ending or even if we have to move far away from each other. I love you so much that Iโll marry you in a blink. You are the person Iโm a thousand percent sure of. And Iโll marry you even with paper rings.โ
A/N: Please do tell me what you think about this story!! I worked really hard on it and I would love to know everyoneโs thoughts on it~ Comments and reblogs are appreciated! ย
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