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skzkkun · 2 years

Text

cherry blossom season

pairing: felix x reader

synopsis: you and felix have been friends since you were kids; one day, you decide to treat your best friend to the perfect picnic date... wait, uh, did i say 'date', i mean― (reading playlist)

!! this fic is a part of @bruh-changbin's spring fling writing collab !!

warnings: food mention. gn!reader. not proof-read, as always lol. f2l (friends to lovers)-type fluff <3

word count: 3.4k

According to the occasional sign that passes by your car as you pull up onto a dirt road, you and Felix are somewhere in Hwagae.

Felix asks, as he did the entire way to this country destination, "Are we there yet?".

“Yeah, we’re finally here, ‘Lixie.” You giggle softly, nodding with a warm smile as you fling yourself from the car.

“Let's gooo~!” Felix exclaims as he leaps from the car. He looks over at you as he fiddles with something in the boot, then glances around at his surroundings.

There is no sign of any other cars in the area. In the distance he can hear children laughing, birds singing, and the occasional scurry of some hidden creature doing its thing. There are plenty of trees growing, just like your apartment houseplants, but without the undercurrent of fear; they form a canopy over the road, giving the area a feeling of secretivity. As a gentle breeze blows, the fresh scent of wild mint and damp soil is wafted through the air; overhead, the rustling leaves are occasionally pierced by golden shafts of sunlight.

Felix feels a smile spread across his face. “How did you find this place? It's lovely,” he remarks, and turns his attention back to you.

“I’ve wanted to come with you for a while, but it’s even better during cherry blossom season,” You grin, closing the boot with a gentle click. Felix follows behind you as you set off with a woven basket in hand, casting his eyes over the dirt track that leads into the woods.

“There’s more?” he asks uncertainly.

You clamber over a low metal gate, then turn to watch him follow your lead. “Of course there’s more! I didn’t bring you here just to show you a road, sunshine” You exclaim, almost skipping in place as you grin at Felix. He glances uncomfortably down at the dirt track; when you follow his gaze, you snort in realisation. “Oh ‘Lix I– I promise not even a speck of dirt will dare to stick to your pristine shoes,” You reassure him, with a wave of your hand, “I haven’t brought you here to dirty you up, angel, I promise.”

“Well I―,” Felix stammers, his thoughts running away with him.

You give him a puzzled look, before your mouth falls open. At first, you only make a series of unintelligible noises, until you finally regain control of his tongue. “Come on,” you say, brushing hastily past the moment. You thrust a hand out towards Felix, and look at him over the top of your sunglasses. “I promise, it’s worth it. Please?”

Felix feels himself melting, just a bit. "Well, if you insist," he says, and reaches out to take your hand.

You smirk in return. “I always do,” he grins, and hauls Felix awkwardly over the stile.

The walk is not too strenuous, but Felix is a bit panting and suspects you have deliberately slowed his pace to stay with him. For around five minutes, you walk together, through the quiet hush of the trees in comfortable silence, until you reach the hilltop; despite leading the way thusfar, you suddenly step aside as the path heads out of the clustered woods and towards the crest of the hill.

“(Y/n)?”

“I don’t want to ruin the view,” you say lightly.

Felix smiles. “I hardly think the sight of you could ruin anything,” he says softly, because he believes it and because he can, and he relishes the way that you always huff a short laugh in response to such compliments.

“I mean it. I'll be right behind you." You blush, glancing over briefly at the blonde.

Felix gives you a quizzical look, but you merely return it with an enigmatic smile of your own, so Felix gives up on questioning him and starts walking. True to your word, he hears your boots crunching on the path a few steps behind him.

He steps out of the trees and into a green field, abundant with wildflowers. Children playing here can be heard louder here, far enough away to be an undertone instead of an intrusion. In the flower-strewn paths he ascends, butterflies and bumblebees bobble throughout the air lazily. There is, he realises, a large tree at the top of it, its branches spreading into the sky as though throwing themselves up in exultation. It must be nearing noon as the sun hangs high in the sky. This washes the land with a golden wash of light which glints off the dappled leaves of the tree.

The land falls away as Felix crests the hill, and his breath catches in his lungs. The hill flattens out a bit at the top before tumbling down, and Felix’s eyes widen in delight as he takes in the view.

Fields stretch out as far as he can see, dotted with sheep and yet more bright spots of wildflowers waving in the breeze. A stream trickles gently through the midst of them, seemingly in no hurry to make its way along as it splashes playfully over scattered rocks. The woods sweep off to the east, looming over the meadows and leaving their cool shade to meet the tender warmth of the sun. Just where his vision begins to waver, over to the west, stands a small village watching over the fields, its clock tower just beginning to strike noon on the edge of his hearing. Felix's mouth falls open as you approach him, his eyes gazing out over everything as you both stand in the shade of the enormous tree above you.

“(Y/n)...” He murmurs in astonishment, and you nod beside him.

“I know,” You say, and the warmth in your voice makes Felix turn to you excitedly.

You keep looking out over the land with a small smile tugging at your soft lips, turning towards the sunlight like a hero emerging from the depths of winter. “This is all good, right?”

“All go―? (Y/n), it’s– it’s beautiful,” Felix breathes as he looks out over the countryside.

“It certainly is,” You say softly, and Felix realises with a flash that you have not strayed your gaze from his freckled face. He opens his mouth to protest, when his own line of sight falls beyond the edge of the tree’s branches, midway between the light and the shade.

Felix’s favourite large pastel blanket is spread out over the grass; beside it is a gently bulging wicker basket and several bottles of sparkling water.

“Ready for lunch?” You drop to your knees to start unbuckling the straps on the picnic basket.

“You-,” Felix breathes as wonder courses through him. He mentioned something once during an awkward moment, half a century ago, and now here kneels a demon atop a picnic blanket.

"Hm?" You give him a sidelong glance as he concentrates on opening the basket.

Felix’s eyes do not move from him. “You really didn’t have to do all this,” he repeats, no less stunned.

Your hands still. Eventually, his eyes still on the basket, he murmurs, “Well, I did say I’d treat you to something delicious, didn’t I?”

Felix swallows. His stomach is fluttering as though filled with butterflies, and he feels as though he could soar through this beautiful azure horizon, alongside his heart. “Yes, I suppose you did.”

You laugh in delight, and shrug. “I mean, you mentioned to the boys how much you’ve been wanting a simple picnic, it’s nothing really,” you say, your voice softening as you gaze unblinkingly at Felix.

“It’s not nothing, (Y/n) I―,” Felix says, swallowing hard.

“Hey, don’t get all sappy on me yet, you haven’t even seen the food yet,” You say easily, but your eyes are shining, and his lips are parted in a broad smile.

It takes no effort at all for Felix to drop to his knees in front of you. He shuffles forward until you are both face to face, and for the first time in your long friendship, he wraps his arms around you.

You freeze in his embrace for a second, and then all but melt against him. Your arms creep up hesitantly, as though you’re not certain what to do, but eventually, they envelop Felix in his hold. After a moment, you heave a long, wavering sigh, as though releasing a breath you’ve held for aeons.

The sun shines over you both. Birdsong seems to flare, filling the air with triumphant chirps and trills, as Felix hooks his chin over your shoulder and breathes in the scent of him. You groan softly, and turn your face into Felix’s neck.

You both kneel together for a few moments, silently enjoying the embrace. Felix takes the opportunity to hesitantly rake his fingers through the soft strands of your hair. Privately he admires the way the sun turns it into a halo of fire, whilst you settle your arms around Felix’s soft middle and sigh contentedly.

“Well,” Felix says after a moment, and grins in surprised delight when the feel of his breath against your neck makes you shiver. “This is really nice, don’t 'cha think?”

"Mmm," you murmur, and Felix feels the way his face screws into a moue of distaste against his throat at his choice of words. Still, he doesn’t snap back as he so often does; instead, he says lightly, “Worth waiting for, I’d say. But I didn’t bring you here for us to end up cuddling.”

“You didn't?” Felix pouts, casting his eyes over the breathtaking scene you has offered up to him.

You grumble indignantly in his grasp, squirming in a half-hearted attempt to break the embrace. “Shut up, angel,” he huffs, and Felix pulls back far enough to see a tell-tale flush to your cheeks. He beams at him, endlessly charmed, and earns an impatient growl from the demon. “Now, come on, I brought you here to give you a picnic, and I put a lot of effort into it, y'know!”

“Oh yeah, did you bring cake?” Felix asks, his interest suddenly piqued. He pulls back to try and peer into the opened basket, and sighs when he finds you smirking at him. “Oi!,” he protests, pouting petulantly. “I know you joke about me being a chronic sweet tooth but… I’m just craving some cake, okay? Or maybe some―”

“―brioche?” You finish, and as he speaks, a loaf rises from the depths of the basket and waggles itself enticingly in front of Felix. He briefly tries to summon up some semblance of indignance, before he catches sight of the label on its bag.

Plates of sandwiches rise from the basket, arranged neatly with their crusts removed. A gently quivering quiche follows them, still steaming as though not long removed from the oven. A few pies trail along behind it, then sausage rolls, and then – “Oh, when did you make sodduk sodduk?” Felix asks in delight.

“Mmmmm,” You think, watching indulgently as Felix gives up on resisting temptation and snatches one out of the basket. “Just before I woke you up this morning, I know you love it.”

Felix smiles warmly, watching as desserts emerge from the basket. His eyes are drawn to the fairy cakes you place merrily on the blanket.

It takes Felix a moment to wrestle his tongue back under his control as he stares at you, “We can’t eat all this!”.

You drop down on the blanket to sprawl out on his back, propping yourself up on your elbows. You smile amusingly at Felix as he crosses his feet at the ankle and basks in the sun. “Nobody’s saying you have to. You can do whatever you want, sunshine.”

He has a brief moment of indecision, surrounded as he is by so much tempting food, before he follows his instincts and reaches for a sandwich. It is delicious – you know that whipped cream and strawberries, a particular favourite of his. The instinctive groan that spills unselfconsciously from his lips is echoed by a throaty chuckle from you. Felix swallows past the lump in his throat and shoots you a peevish look. “You are planning to join me, right?” he asks.

His mouth is suddenly dry, but the sparkling water takes care of that after a moment, and the bubbles fizz on his tongue like so many words unsaid. His stomach, already beginning to protest after Felix made sure to have a helping of every savoury item on offer, swirls dizzily as he watches you wriggle to make yourself even more comfortable with a satisfied sigh.

You look more relaxed than Felix has seen you in a very long time. As Felix casts his eyes fondly along the line of his long, lean body, he suddenly feels a giddy rush of warmth.

“Summer is certainly on the way, isn’t it?” he chuckles as he analyses the feeling, quietly certain that the heat has nothing to do with it.

In response, you hum as Felix suns himself, tilting his head back towards the sky. It bares the elegant line of his neck perfectly.

Felix fiddles with the cuff of his jacket. “Perhaps I’ll just,” he mutters to himself, and stands up decisively.

He shrugs off his jacket and drapes it neatly over the tree branch alongside your coat. He hesitates for a moment, feeling the heat of the sun on the back of his neck, before unbuttoning his shirt and placing it alongside his jacket. He sighs in relief when the slightest hint of a breeze flows over his forearms as he rolls his shirtsleeves up. Finally, he unties his shoes, tucks his socks into them, and leaves both neatly on the grass beneath the tree.

Taking a moment to inspect the gnarled bark of the tree, Felix sighs softly to himself. The weight of years gone by hangs over him, but not unpleasantly; it drapes over him comfortingly, like a warm blanket on a winter night, keeping away the cold.

Ten years. You’ve done so much together. Travelled to various countries. Vied and bickered and laughed together in the midst of wonders and depravities. Got in each other’s way and then deliberately stepped aside, in a dance that ebbed and flowed through the years. And now you have the chance to continue to be together. And you and Felix have the chance to… what? What is left to do, after doing so much together? Felix turns to look at you, not surprised to find your eyes already fixed on him.

Felix walks out from the shade of the tree and seats himself by your side, closer than he would have done a mere week ago. The sun bathes him in its light as he stretches his legs out and props himself up on one hand. He looks down as you stare back up at him. “(Y/n), you know you didn’t have to do this for me.”

“I know,” You say, earnestly. “But I wanted to.”

“Y- You do so much for me,” Felix adds, his words tumbling from his mouth faster than he meant. He stops, takes a breath, and releases it slowly to calm the hammering of his heart. “And I appreciate that, I really do.”

“I know,” You repeat. A smile tugs at the corners of your mouth as you admire the blush spread across Felix’s freckled cheeks.

“I really shouldn’t ask any more of you when you’ve given me so much,” Felix says. He smiles shyly at you. “But I do have a favour to ask.”

“Anything,” You raise an eyebrow at Felix. “Anything you want. Just name it.”

Felix leans closer to hover hesitantly over you. “Would you let me kiss you?” he asks softly. He cannot help the gentle laugh which escapes him as your eyes widen.

“Kiss me?” You echo, the words stuttering in his throat as you gape up at Felix.

“I’ve never kissed someone before and..." Felix admits easily. “I’d say there’s never been anyone I wanted to kiss, but that isn’t quite true.”

“I… yes,” You manage to stumble through your response.

Felix nods. “I didn't know that I could have, before… well. Everything. And I can’t promise to be good at it―”

“― Sunshine,” You interrupted, suddenly finding your voice. You stare up at Felix, his eyes crinkling fondly despite his impatience. “Please, kiss me.”

He leans in, curling onto his side to hover over you on one arm. His free hand rises to settle on your face, hesitantly at first. However, he gently cups his chin and raises it slightly, his thumb brushing over the sharp line of his jaw. You allow himself to be moved without protest as Felix leans closer and, with a final intake of breath, presses their lips together.

It should, perhaps, feel like an anti-climax. It is a kiss ten years in the making, after all, and for a moment, you suspect neither of you know what to do. And then... and then his lips parted. You tangle a shaking hand in Felix’s hair with a groan. Something seems to click into place as he moans softly in return and eagerly presses even closer.

A long, fevered moment passes. When you part, leaving a few inches between your lips and his, you both smile. “Well,” Felix says, his husky voice sending goose bumps across your body, as he leans down to nuzzle his nose against you, almost as if every fibre of his being is crying out to have more contact with you.

Felix wants to be rid of the expression, so he leans close again, and kisses your lips until they part in a moan of happiness. Then he draws back in satisfaction. “(Y/n),” Felix sighs, grinning as he cannot resist the temptation to kiss you again. And again. And a few more times after that, just because he can.

You bask in the attention for a while, until eventually you pull away from Felix to indicate the picnic with a jerk of your head. “What about that?” you ask petulantly, your kiss-swollen lips twitching as you hide a smirk.

Felix giggles in surprise. “Oh. Yeah, I forgot.”

“But I got all those desserts for you,” You protest in something close to a whine; levelling a knowing look at Felix. “You don’t have room for one bite of dessert?”

“Well,” Felix says, drawing out the word as his eyes are drawn to the spread. He shoots you a sheepish look. “Perhaps just one?”

He ends up eating a slice of apple pie with your head in his lap. His fingers slide across your cheeks as you both lie in companionable silence, the future stretching out ahead of them just as tangibly as the picturesque countryside.

“It really is wonderful here,” Felix says as you doze beneath the combined force of the sun and the angel’s delicate touches.

“Mmm,” You agreed, not bothering to open your heavy eyes. Instead you tilt your head and lean closer to Felix’s hand. “We can stay, if you want.”

“Stay?” Felix gazes out at the fields, eyes fixed on the distant cityscape. “For how long?”

You yawn. “Oh, I dunno. Today. Forever. For however long you want, angel.”

#lee felix x reader #felix x reader #lee felix imagine #felix imagine #felix fluff #lee felix fluff #felix x y/n #skz fluff #skz x reader #stray kids fluff #stray kids x reader #kpop fluff #kpop x reader

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strwbrryblues · 2 years

Text

A Budding Romance

Pairing: Lee Minho | Lee Know x Fem!Reader (AFAB)

Genre: Fluff, Slight angst, Fantasy AU, Medieval AU, Childhood friends to Lovers, Mutual Pining

Additional Tags: Florist!Minho, SoonDoongDori can talk (kinda), SKZ 00z and Jeongin aged down, Minju Jungwoo Minho pretty besties, It’s honestly more like idiots to lovers tbh, Cameos from other group's members

Warnings: Talk of insecurities, SeungJin puppy love (yes gonna put that as warning in case some of you are not comfortable), This was not proofread properly, so if there are any kinds of typos, please ignore it (｡ŏ﹏ŏ)

Word Count: 12.8k

Synopsis: In which it’s not only flowers that bloom in spring, but feelings as well. However, you’ve only just realized that they’ve always been there

A/N: This kind of got out of hand hhhhhh I was planning to keep it short and simple but I wanted to add a lot of elements and description, so I got carried away 😭 Also, I still am visibly confused if Soonie Doongie and Dori are all male or female because I believe that Koreans don’t usually use fem or male pronouns sooo.... yeah you’ll see me almost have a crisis with that 💀

By the way, go check out the other fics from @bruh-changbin ‘s spring fling collab once they’re posted! 🥺💗

[Spring Fling Masterlist]

Spring has arrived. The remnant cold that the winter season had left lingered on the streets for weeks, and it was just the right amount of coolness to battle the sun’s heat.

Minho, upon the early kiss of the sun’s rays, had already set up his little flower shop at the corner of Levanter Street. The place was perfect to catch the eyes of any passerby, as the place was decorated with the newly blooms of spring. And it was around this time that customers alike would pick out from his bunch.

Mothers who usually finished up their spring cleaning would buy a couple or three bouquets they would set on their vintage vases. Men and women pick single stems of flowers as a gift for their newly love, or bouquets to celebrate one’s anniversary. Even witches pass by, their brooms speeding to a stop to look for Minho’s rare plants they can use for their crafts.

To say spring was the busiest season for his little flower shop would truly be an understatement. And so, he had to look for someone to be his apprentice.

After consulting with his friend, Jungwoo—the coffee shop owner just beside his shop—they both decided to put up posters, calling out for new hires. The poster being nicely made by you—Minho’s long time childhood friend.

You three gathered around the side of Minho’s flower shop. His cats trailed along, all three sitting down to watch in curiosity the huddle that formed.

“You know, I clearly don’t see the point of you looking for hire when I’m literally right here.” You frowned, hands both resting on your hips as you still formulated the reason for Minho looking for help, when you can do it yourself; considering your job is a night shift at most, you don’t really have anything else to do during daytime.

Jungwoo, who stood at the opposite side of Minho, crossed his arms as well. “Yeah, you can have Y/n at your beck and call, no need for the awkwardness stage if you ever find a recruit.”

You gave an unimpressed look at the taller boy, “really? I’m at his ‘beck and call’?” His choice of words made you look at him pointedly, while he just shrugged and gave you his signature princely smile.

Minho, who was in the middle of you two, was building up a headache from the constant noise. He averted his gaze from the poster he’d just put up, now pinching the bridge of his nose as he clenched his eyes shut.

And while you and Jungwoo bickered, a fourth person entered the scene, specifically another friend in your little group.

“Minho’s looking for help?” Minju asked, dressed in her maid outfit, minus the apron, as she was about to head to the daycare for work. “I thought Y/n was actually getting paid for always helping? I actually think he doesn’t need any more helping hand.”

At this, both you and the taller boy you’ve been bickering with, turned to the new addition to the huddle, agreeing in chorus.

“See! I told you, Lee Minho!” You laughed almost maniacally while pointing at him. The victorious grin not leaving your face as you went back inside the flower shop, Soonie, Doongie, and Dori following you inside as you called them for their breakfast. “I’m always right!” You hollered, the noise being muffled by the glass windows.

The three who were left outside looked puzzled at the bellow of laughter you let out. But then brushed it off, as it was very normal for them at this point.

“Well, you men figure out what you want.” Minju said, gathering her skirt and clutching tightly on the stack of book that was strapped together by leather, resting on her back. “I’m off to work. Mrs. Yang sent an owl earlier, saying that Jeongin manifested his powers and that we need to keep an eye on him in case he blows anything up.”

Jungwoo looked baffled, as he uttered in disbelief, “blow things up? What?”

Minju shrugs, “beats me. Seungmin blew up Jisung’s toy top last time.” The girl had her fair share of the disastrous kids at the daycare. Just last month, the little alchemist - Seungmin, had blown up Jisung’s top, and the management still had to figure out how it happened. In short, Minju wasn’t even surprised anymore.

The two boys watched their friend leave for work after bidding her goodbye. The taller boy then turned to Minho, “you know, I get that you need the extra help an all, but Y/n really is suited for you.” Jungwoo said. “Not just work wise.” He added, winking at the boy meaningfully as he watched the tip of his friend’s ear, burn bright red at his comment.

Minho groaned, as if he wasn’t thrown off guard just earlier. Of course, he can’t hide his emotions well, especially when his ears always give it away. “You know, it’s better if you just shut up and go back inside your shop and start making coffee. I’ll have my usual order.”

Jungwoo just chuckled, knowing full well that the order he was talking about was specifically for you. His friend has always been like that, ordering coffee—or breakfast at that—for the two of you, and insists he just does it out of convenience, and not because he’d taken a romantic liking to you.

Flashing a grin at the slightly shorter boy, Jungwoo went back to his café to set things up. As for Minho, he went back inside to his shop, to see you sitting on the floor with the cats. Seeing you get along with his cats always tugged at his heartstrings and made his stomach flip in happiness.

“Get your ass off the floor. You’re getting my floor dirty.” He contrasted the feelings he felt inside to what he just said. In truth, he wanted you to stay there longer, and maybe he’ll sit with you and play with the cats as well.

You stood up however, much to his dismay. “You’re such a meanie. If you keep being like that, no one’s going to work for you.” You placed your hands on your hips, and frowned at him.

Oh, how Minho wanted to kiss that frown away from you, but he had to keep it all in.

“What are you doing here anyway? Shouldn’t you still be asleep?” He changed the topic, going around the counter to take his spell book, preparing to cast his daily spell on the shop; a spell that sets the mood of the shop, so customers enjoy their short time inside the shop, and feel at peace.

“I would still be asleep, if only Jungwoo had not barged in my house at the wee hours of the morning; asking me to finish and duplicate that poster.” You grumbled.

At the news, Minho stopped his spell midway, frowning at the news. He concluded that he’d have to reprimand his friend for cutting short your precious sleep. “Then go back home and sleep, doofus.”

You shook your head, “no thanks. I’d rather be here, it’s relaxing.” You sat down again, the cats crowding you once more for attention and affection. “You go and try making and serving drinks all night to drunkards, and see if you don’t find this place calming.”

The thing was, you worked the late shift for a local pub, run by someone you were close to. Even if you hated the scene and alcohol in general, you enjoyed the music that was played by a very locally known bard. Staying until late at dawn, but you still bother to get up early to help out with Minho in his flower shop.

“If you insist,” Minho shrugs, having done with his daily spell. Oh, but his inner self wanted to just drag you to his room upstairs—where he’d made the second floor of the shop his homely space to save money—and tuck you in his bed to sleep, so he knew you were well rested. “Pick up my order from Jungwoo.” Minho left the topic as quickly as possible, to avoid him from blurting out a confession.

You quickly stood up, saluting him, before dusting away on your skirt and running out of the shop.

Minho watched your figure leave the shop completely, and to the shop next door. Once he was sure no one was around, he knocked his head on the counter top, letting out a strangled groan. His ears flushed so hard; he was sure it was hot to the touch.

“Oh, my heavens,” he sighed, cheeks resting on the cold surface of the wooden counter. “I can’t believe I’ve fallen for my best friend.” Minho whined to himself.

He didn’t know when he fell for you, other than the fact that he suddenly finds everything you do to be endearing and heart fluttering.

Soonie, his eldest cat, meowed at him. An amulet he was wearing, that was cast with a spell. allowed him to understand the language of cats, and was able to decipher the meow to be a, “just suck it up and confess to her then.”

Minho glared at his eldest. “I can’t just do that. I’d be ruining what we have now.”

Doongie, his second eldest cat, leaped on the counter and started meowing loudly. “You dumbass! How are you so sure that she doesn’t even feel the same way?”

The eldest cat meowed as well, backing up Doongie’s complaint, “yeah. She’s literally the only person who’s willing to spend all her free time on you despite you always saying you don’t like her company.”

His youngest, Dori, amidst the noise of the two eldest, only rubbed its face gently on Minho’s legs, purring loudly as he let out a silent mew, “I like her. I want her to be our mommy, because she takes care of us really well.”

Minho almost died at how cute Dori was. He was about to reply when you barged in, two hot mugs in hand, while a tray of both your breakfast was balancing on your head.

Minho was quick to stand from his seat, taking the tray off your head as he clicked his tongue. “Stop doing things like this or else you’d end up breaking things.” Or you could get hurt. And he would absolutely be disheartened about that.

You apologized sheepishly, pulling a stall towards the counter and hopping on to it. You placed down the mug, waiting for Minho to place down the tray as well.

Once Minho approached the inner side of the counter, he pulled his stall as well, placing the tray and then sitting down. He took your plate of food and placed it in front of you as he placed his in front of him.

You hummed in satisfaction as the scent of eggs and freshly baked bread filled your nose. Quickly, you dig in, another hum resonating from you as you seemed pleased with the way the food was thoroughly prepared. Sipping on the mug carefully, the hot cocoa drink flowed down your throat, sending you comfort and warmth against the nipping coolness of the spring breeze.

“Isn’t today just lovely?” You let out a sigh of content, before continuing to eat.

Minho could almost see flowers blooming around you like spring time. It fluttered his heart, making him want to just pinch your cheeks and coo at you. But the crumbs of bread that littered at the corners of your mouth was enough to distract and bother him. His hand up and moving unconsciously to wipe them off.

“You’re such a messy eater.” He said, now his other hand grabbing the sides of your jaws to halt your movement. The gesture catching you off guard; the beats of your heart suddenly skyrocketing.

After brushing away the crumbs, Minho went back to eating his breakfast as if not an intimate moment had just occurred. His ears begged to differ, however. But you wouldn’t notice that, considering you’re stuck in a conundrum of your own.

Doongie meowed, and Minho thanked the heavens you don’t understand the cats, because the mischievous second eldest just said something really suggestive, that both flushed Minho’s ears to be redder than it was, all the while having the urge to just throw something at the cat for embarrassing him further.

The awkward tension that rouse was interrupted when the clinking of the shop’s bell reverberated around the room. Minho was only then woken with the realization that he had already flipped the “open” sign minutes ago. The bell signaled the arrival of a customer, who had disappeared in between the tall shelves where Minho usually grouped all gardening tools.

“Welcome to Soonie, Doongie, and Dori’s Flora! We hope you’re having a blooming day!” You cheered out the shop’s name, along with the catchphrase you came up with—specifically you, Jungwoo, and Minju, as Minho wasn’t really on the more creative side in terms of literature.

As much as Minho hated that greeting, whenever it was you, it just seemed right. You, and the word “bloom” just fit together in the same sentence. So, always having you say the assigned greetings to the customer was much to his pleasure.

While he was spacing out again in thought of how very beautiful you looked just now, the customer emerged from the aisles, a small rake and a couple of clay pots in hand. You halted eating your breakfast as you quickly tended to the customer.

“I didn’t think you’d need more help Minho?” The old lady spoke—one of Minho’s usual customers in the shop, who you were also familiar with. “Y/n here seems to be a lot of help already.”

This snapped Minho out of his thoughts, only to witness you giggling. It was cute, but he knows there was some hidden mischief behind your laugh.

“That’s what I told him granny! He’s very stubborn, it’s very annoying.” You huffed, though not meaning it. Minho only rolled his eyes at you, finishing his breakfast quickly and gulping down the remains of his now lukewarm coffee—which he found the temperature to be revolting.

“I guess it’s also not bad to get more help, especially during the spring season,” the older woman closed her eyes, chuckling. “You deserve a rest too, little lady.”

Now you huffed out, feeling helpless at the fact that the older woman made a somehow valid point. That made Minho snicker at you, he can’t help but feel the need to stick his tongue out at you just to add fuel to the fire.

After Minho had set aside his used dishes, he took over your work after you’ve totaled the balance in which the woman had to pay. Minho gathered the trinkets the woman picked out, tying them in a green ribbon before casting a light spell—one that lightens the weight of any heavy material for a period of time—and handing it to the older woman.

The spell wasn’t really necessary as the woman can manage a few trinkets, but Minho felt the need to, after noticing that the woman kept on twisting her wrist in discomfort. In addition, with spring heavy on its way, people right now are keener to observe the changing trends and prices of materials and foods alike; sending almost everyone into a shopping spree in the local market place. In this case, the sweet old lady who now just left, would be more likely to roam the market, carrying more and more things as she buys. And Minho wanted to lessen the burden of the old lady by adding a simple light spell on the things she bought from his shop.

He does the same to every other customer that went through the day, especially those who purchased bulks and bulks from him. You mostly wrote down the receipts and recorded every transaction, as well as doing the sweeping and some watering of the plants on display. Minho arranged and wrapped up bouquets upon customers’ request; having more knowledge in the field.

Whenever he does so, you can’t help but stare at him in silent fascination at how knowledgeable the boy is about flowers, their language, and the perfect complement for each. You watch him work on a customer’s request after having done recording the transaction.

His nimble fingers worked gently in arranging each stalk, being careful in hopes of not breaking a stem. And with the gentle afternoon light cascading his features, you were entranced. To the point where you start feeling your chest tightening; deeming his beauty to be out of this world.

“I... uh... I’ll just go get some water.” You stood up from your seat beside him on the counter, very abruptly that it startled both the middle-aged woman—who Minho was tending to their request—and Minho himself. He looked at you still with shock but it returned to his neutral expression, giving you a nod.

“You should take a break too,” Minho said, before turning back to the bouquet he was working on. You just nodded quickly, trying to flee from the scene.

Going to the store’s backroom, you leaned on the door upon closing. Your mind going on an endless frenzy of scenarios that was caused by the scene you just witnessed earlier. Suddenly, Minho didn’t look friendly to you. And it wasn’t in a bad way. The vision that was suddenly haunting you was Minho moving gently and softly from before, despite the crease on his brows, with the setting looking as domestic as ever.

The boy you’d grown to see since young was mature and different from who you’ve grown to know. The scene played out with a gentle, stern looking Minho who was tending to a child. And the child looked oddly like the man himself, but also looked like you. The next thing you know, however, was Minho turning to you and muttering something. You swore you heard him saying, “honey” to you, in a very gentle tone with a sweet smile.

Suddenly, the small room that nestled silently in the back of the shop had gotten smaller than what you have come to know. The air was suffocating, tightening your chest that rendered you to inhale deep breaths.

“Fuck.” A curse unfamiliar to your mouth, has rolled its way off your tongue as your fist clenched on the fabric of your top. “It hurts.” You whined quietly.

The unfamiliar constricts on your chest made you worry.

Why are you suddenly feeling this? It confused you to no end.

Sliding down the door and crouching, you didn’t let your fists uncoil on the fabric as you kept it to feel solace in the familiarity of the texture. Thinking back to times from before, you always did feel a tug in the pits of your stomach whenever you were around Minho. But it was only now that you noticed its heightened activity, to the point where you feel it constrain your chest.

You tried to steady your breathing. And amidst your heaves, a sudden noise startled you. More specifically, one of a cat’s meow. You turn to the general direction of where you heard the noise, only to see Soonie on top of the stacked crates containing some clay pots.

“Oh! So that’s where you’ve been!” You wondered where the older cat wandered off to midday, as only two were present inside the shop.

“Meow,” Soonie replies, which meant to actually ask you the question of, “what happened?” You wouldn’t have known what he was saying so you assumed it to be a different one—translating it to be, “I like it here.”

“Okay, you be careful when you get down from there. It’s quite high.” You approached the orange cat, booping on its nose.

“You know, I asked you a question. It’s concerning that you’re clutching on your chest like that.” Another meow on your side. Thinking that the cat meant it as “why did you touch my nose?”

“Was it uncomfortable for you? I’m sorry, let me compensate with some treats.” You turned back to the cat, placing your hand on the knob of the door then turning it.

“You know, this conversation is going nowhere. We’re on totally different pages.” Soonie meowed again, but this time, swiftly going down from the crates to follow your steps, in pursue of the treats you promised. “But I could use some of those treats you just said.” Another meow.

“Mhm! I’m sure you’ll enjoy the treats!” You cheered, almost on the same page as Soonie with the talk of cat treats.

The cat made no further reply, only rubbing its body on your leg in anticipation. Even until you got out of the back room, the cat trailed behind you silently in wait.

As you reached the store front, you were greeted however with the sight of a slightly familiar woman. Probably around your age, if not a bit older. It wouldn’t bother you on any day as it could have just been a customer, but you picked the conversation happening with her and Minho.

“I don’t have a written resume right now; I can come back tomorrow if you want.”

“Oh, that wouldn’t matter actually, but if you feel the need to have a resume, then we can arrange to have your interview tomorrow.”

“That’s perfect! When should I come by for the interview?”

“After lunch is perfect.”

“Okay, I’ll be here after lunch tomorrow. Thank you so much for letting me know about it.” The girl bowed in thanks, giving Minho a big, bright smile.

Minho in turn, bowed in return and only watched the figure leave. Noticing your presence as you approached the center of the room, where the cats have gathered around you; stepping their tiny paws on your legs as you crouched to give them treats.

“Are you feeling any better?” Minho asks. However, he got no response from you. Only the sight of your back turned before him sufficed the answer he wished.

“Y/n?” He called for your attention.

This time you replied, but the tone in your voice hinted irritation than what Minho always expected from you—light and happy. “I’m fine.” You dismissed.

Clearly you weren’t. Minho wanted to speak up but Doongie meowed, “someone’s in trouble.” It ticked Minho off, wanting to scold the second eldest of the cats. Soonie did so anyways in his stead, hissing at the younger.

You translated the situation as the cats fighting for the treats you’re giving, making the frown in your face deeper. “Hey, don’t fight.” The statement did not stop the two, only furthering the argument between the two cats, Dori trying to calm the two down, filling the quiet shop in meows and hisses.

The noise made you upset than ever. Doing so, you stood up from your crouched seat, going to the counter to pick up any of your belongings that you left, and putting them all in your satchel. “I’m leaving early. I have to prepare for work.”

Minho can’t help but watch your form walk away. He couldn’t even ask you what the problem was. And it wasn’t even time for your shift at the local pub. It was still around 4 in the afternoon, and you usually left at 5, leaving an hour to prepare for your shift. Clearly, something was happening that you weren’t telling Minho.

The man can only sigh. He’d have to talk to you tomorrow morning instead. Thinking of ways to talk to you, he then turned to the three cats who were still arguing. “You lot can’t keep your mouths shut for a damn second.” Oh, Minho was pissed. And it immediately sent chills down the cats’ furry bodies. The glare was enough to kill, but it was a good thing his eyes held no power to do so.

“It was Doongie. He started it.” Soonie couldn’t help but point fingers at the second youngest, clearly afraid of facing the wrath of their father.

“What? I literally didn’t do anything, you suddenly hissed at me,” Doongie snarled back, to which the older started hissing again. “See! You’re doing it again!”

“Please stop fighting,” Dori timidly mewled, scared of putting more fuel in the fire. The youngest already feeling the seething aura coming from Minho.

“Okay! That’s it! You’re all on time out. No treats for a week, I’m sealing all of it, and no one is going to touch it.” Minho angrily took out all the stored treats in one of the cabinets under the counter, along with the small spell book he keeps handy inside his pocket—containing emergency spells and the like.

The three cats stood up on their little feet, already circling Minho to stop him from taking the treats up to his room and sealing it in one of his drawers.

“Dad! No, we’re sorry! We won’t do it again!” The three meowed in unison, following Minho’s steps, until they reached the top, where a loft has been made from the large space for the cats to settle in. Two doors, one for the bathroom, and one for Minho’s room. And before the three feline could make their entry inside Minho’s room, the door had already been gently shut in their faces.

The three stared silently at the bronze door knob, staring hardly as if it would open with their command.

“This is all your fault Doongie.” Soonie scoffed, making the second youngest rapidly turn it’s head.

“What do you mean mine?! If you hadn’t hissed at me for no reason, then I wouldn’t have fought back, idiot!” The cat’s loud meows echoed around the second floor of the shop.

“I was trying to make you read the room! Your statement was uncalled for!” Soonie meowed back.

At this point, Dori wanted to quiet down the two oldest cat, but he was genuinely growing tired of their argument, that he walked away from them, and jumping to the wooden cat tower of their loft.

Minho on the other hand, successfully sealed the treats, but leaving one aside to give for them. The treat wrapped in a white cloth, containing two of your home made cat cookies. Deeming that the three at least deserved the treat, but they will have to learn to share it for a week.

After doing so, he sat shortly on his bed, thinking of what happened earlier. Of what could have bothered you, that you’ll leave earlier than your usual time, without talking it out with him. And seeing and hearing you sound upset, made his heart break a little. He was confused on what could have possibly gone wrong, but he decided to do his best in making it up for you. Even if he didn’t exactly know if he was the reason or not.

You weren’t doing so well either; the walk to your home was filled with too much scenarios from earlier. Both the one that made your heart clench in something that confused you, and the other giving you that unpleasant feeling.

Upon finding out that Minho was to take in, sooner and probably much later, a reliable helper around the shop—and a beautiful one at that—something inside you felt unpleasant. Your insides churned in a feeling you felt whenever someone disagrees with you to the point they disrespect you. Much closely to unlike but not hate. You couldn’t put a name on this feeling but you wanted it to go away.

Switching your path, you make your way to the daycare where Minju was working, needing the advice and comfort of a female friend. You knew you can’t trust Jungwoo, because not only would he have something up his sleeve, but because the female, and most probably the male population of the area would flock the man, rendering useless for private consultations.

When you peeked into the glass windows of the place, you see only a few children were left. All the others picked up by their parents, or guardians. More notably, the ones left are the trouble makers you’ve come to know—little Jeongin, Jisung, Yongbok, Seungmin, and Hyunjin.

Rapping your knuckles on the door, you were then greeted by Dahyun—one of Minju’s co-workers. “Oh, Y/n. Did you come to talk with Minju?” The girl brightly smiled at you.

Looking at her, the gleeful smile she displayed, rubbed off on you, making you smile in return and forgetting your worries for quite a short period of time. “Yeah! I hope I’m not intruding on work hours?”

“Oh no, work ended hours ago. We’re just waiting for the kids left in here to be picked up, then we’ll be on our way.” Dahyun smiled again, opening the door wider to let you in.

“Teacher! Is that my mommy!” One of the kids, you assumed it’s Jisung from his voice.

“No sweetie, it’s Y/n,” Dahyun corrected, picking up the wood carved nutcracker that the boy dropped as he ran excitedly to the door.

Looking up at you, both in happiness and sadness, little Jisung spoke, “oh… I thought it was mommy.” He can’t help the little frown that painted his face.

You crouched down and pat Jisung’s head comfortingly, “don’t worry! Your mom will pick you up soon!”

Yongbok, Jisung’s twin brother, approached him and held his hand, “mommy won’t forget! Maybe she just stumbled on a cat that needed to be rescued!” The freckled boy made up a scenario of why their mother could be late. And at this, Jisung quickly smiled, nodding in agreement at how their mother is probably a hero in disguise.

Dahyun chuckled, holding Jisung’s hand and leading the twins back inside the room. “Come on. Minju is just preparing snacks for the kids. Apparently they don’t want to go for an afternoon nap.” You chuckled at the statement, somehow relating to the kids for still having some energy left in them.

When you finally arrived, you were greeted with the kids playing around, while Seungmin sat still in one corner, reading a book. Jisung and Yongbok joining Jeongin and Hyunjin in playing a game. However, the little quiet nook Seungmin occupied, was invaded by the other four. Soon enough, the boy reading his story book joined the fray, playing around until Minju finally arrived with a tray of snacks and drinks.

The kids, having been distracted by food, you were finally able to talk to Minju.

“Why did you come by? Isn’t it too early for you to leave the shop?” Minju asked, bunching her skirt before sitting on the floor beside you and Dahyun, conversing but still keeping eye on the kids.

You pressed your legs to your chest, your own skirt pooling to your sides. “I just needed to talk to someone.”

Dahyun being naturally concerned, perked up at the change in your tone. “Why? Has something bad happened? We can help you.” She asked.

You looked down sadly, almost feeling bad for feeling the way you feel, “it’s just, I feel bad for walking out on Minho… I didn’t even explain anything to him, and then I also walked out on the kids.” And by kids, you meant his cats—the term being natural to you and Minho.

Minju tilted her head, confused on what’s happened, “walked out? Did you get into an argument with him?”

You shook your head, “not really… I just felt upset he was really pushing through with looking for a new hire.” Now that you said the problem out loud, you felt it too ridiculous to be even worrying about. But there’s just this feeling of unsettlement that you can’t shake off.

“I’m sure it’s just seasonal, sweetie. You know how it is in spring,” Minju tried her best comforting you, rubbing your back comfortingly.

Dahyun agreed, “yeah. Besides, he probably doesn’t mind you still helping around. You know how things work there with how long you’ve been helping him.”

You stared of blankly, absorbing their words like a sponge. However, there was still something bothering you. It was nitpicking at the very corners of your heart.

“But… I don’t know… the person applying looked beautiful, and it kind of sets something inside me, I don’t know how to explain it,” you sighed. The thought of this beautiful lady working side by side with Minho was making you sad, and you were confused on how you felt. “She also seemed to be kind and gentle.”

Minju and Dahyun turned to give each other a look, already giving name to the feeling you were too oblivious about. “Oh, you sweet, innocent, naïve child.” Dahyun couldn’t help but laugh.

Minju chuckled as well, hiding her giggles behind to which piqued and confused you. “Huh? Why are you both laughing?”

Dahyun waved it off, now breaking into fits of laughter. The kids who were previously distracted by their afternoon snacks, were now huddling around you three. “Teacher is telling a joke! Teacher, tell us the joke!” Yongbok squealed excitedly, tugging on the hem of Minju and Dahyun’s skirt.

Jisung jumped up and down, while Hyunjin was holding on to Jeongin and Seungmin’s hands, who were equally piqued and excited.

Dahyun scowled at the kids, “oh you nosy children, go eat your snacks.” At this, the children pouted and groaned sadly.

“Teacher, unfair!” Jeongin shouted, following another line, “Jeongin always tell jokes to teacher!”

Minju couldn’t help but spill as you still sat in confusion. “Our Ms., Y/n is obliviously jealous.”

After dropping the bomb, you were baffled. The kids looked confused at a word they never encountered before, except for both Seungmin and Hyunjin. The latter quickly shooting his hand up, squealing, “oh! It happens when you feel that someone you love is being taken away from you by someone else!”

Seungmin’s face soured at the mention of the word ‘love.’ “Or, you feel it when someone else has something you want.” The boy related it to something more relatable, to which the other kids now nodded their heads.

Hyunjin tugged at Seungmin, disagreeing to what the boy said; always a lover of romance as he finds a way to justify that jealousy is more akin to be felt with love. “But you feel it with someone you love too! I get jealous when other kids play with you and not with me, because I love you!” The slightly older boy pouted.

The three of you were shocked at the sudden revelation, especially the young alchemist, whose cheeks were now tinted baby pink. “Y-you can come visit my house to play anytime, we’re neighbors after all!” Seungmin turned away from Hyunjin. The latter’s eyes lighted with delight.

The kids, as well as Minju and Dahyun was now teasing the two who was shrouded with what seemed to be puppy love. As for you, you were processing what Minju labeled your feelings as ‘jealousy.’

You thought back to earlier, feeling upset at the scenarios that plagued your mind when you thought back to the lady from before. Hardly even starting work and yet the scenarios made you upset to such an extent where you’re overthinking the lady stealing Minho from you.

“O-of course I’m jealous!” You blurted out, gaining everyone’s attention. Dahyun smirked at the admission, teasing about to roll off her tongue until you added, “he’s my best friend! Of course, I’ll be upset if someone else takes him away from me!”

Dahyun’s eye twitched in irk at your obliviousness. Rubbing her face, she groaned before asking you, “if Minju was ‘taken away’ from you, or someone else got her attention, and the someone was very pretty, would you be upset?”

“I wouldn’t, because they might be talking about something important.” Dahyun nodded at your answer.

“If Jungwoo was talking to you, then someone else pretty would steal his attention, would you be upset?”

“It’s kind of not out of the ordinary, so I would not mind anymore.” You answered once more.

The last question, however, gave back the despair you felt from before. “If Minho was talking to someone else who looks pretty and kind, how would that make you feel?”

You mulled it over, frowning as you gave your answer. “I’d be sad.” You were used to Minho giving you all his undivided attention, despite looking the total opposite, that thinking of him doing so with someone else tugged at the pit of your stomach.

“Ms. Y/n you’re like my mama when papa is ignoring her.” Hyunjin spoke, thinking back to his mother who always pouted when her husband is piled with mails to write back to.

You didn’t think you would have such reactions to this thing. You now only think that this seems too petty to even give it that much attention, but the feeling at the pit of your stomach really wasn’t going away.

“Then what do you suggest I do?” You thought out loud for everyone to hear. Feeling helpless for even having these feelings in the first place. “I even felt my heart squeezing earlier when I glanced at Minho... It was strange.”

Minju was not aware whether you wanted that thought to be heard, but it only confirmed their suspicion of you eventually falling for your best friend.

“Ms. Y/n you’re in love!” Jisung shouted in glee, excited about the news. You only then realized your thoughts were out in the open for everyone in the small room to hear.

“No, I’m not! I think I’m sick,” you blindly reasoned, thinking it could probably be a sickness yet to be discovered. A sickness where you feel your heart almost being squeezed out when looking at someone.

“But, Ms. Y/n, my mama says she feels that way with papa!” Hyunjin reasons out, always on the move for asking about romance to his mom, who was also quite the romantic.

“Ms. Y/n should confess to Sir Minho, right?” Minju wiggled her brows suggestively, while Dahyun gave you a very sly wink.

At this, the kids squealed in excitement, even Seungmin who was not a very romantic child. “Like how Jinnie confessed to Minnie!” Yongbok stared, his eyes twinkling like how his freckles twinkled on his cheeks. The mention once more making Seungmin flush in an adorable baby pink.

“Sir Minho is cool! He takes care of flowers, and has cats!” Jisung raised his hands excitedly, as if testifying his reasons on why you should confess to your friend.

Jeongin raised his hand as well, catching the attention of the other kids as they paid attention to the youngest speaking his thoughts. “Sir Minho is mind reader,” Jeongin starts, his sentence form still lacking as he was still young. “Sir Minho read mama’s thoughts.”

You thought back to Jeongin’s mom who was a regular at Minho’s shop. It was because the woman sticks to her favorite flower arrangement, that Minho starts working on the bouquet before the woman could even speak. Maybe that’s why Jeongin thought he was a mind reader; which you found undeniably adorable.

Upon finishing his sentence, the other boys stared in awe. Talking amongst themselves about how they also want to be a mind reader like Minho. The two daycare teachers only laughed fondly at the kids, while you stared adoringly at how their innocent and imaginative minds are very endearing.

Alas, you could only stay for such a time, leaving just before the last of the kids were picked up by their parents or guardian. Bidding the two women as well, a good bye—with them also promising to drop by the pub for a few non-alcoholic drinks—before heading back home to change out of your day outfit.

Your night—or work attire—was not anything special. Only the dress being a much lighter material to grant you ease when maneuvering around tables and tables when serving. Your shoes as well, changing to a much light and loose leather.

When you arrived, there were already some of the few patrons, with a few of your co-workers setting up the small stage. Seungkwan, one of the famous bards who performs, was already downing a small glass of ale.

“Nervous?” You asked, grabbing on to an apron under one of the counter cabinets, and wrapping it around your body.

The man gave you one of his very popular sassy looks, scoffing, “I could never. You know I’m only drinking a glass so I don’t have to take nonsense from some of the geezers here.”

If anything, Seungkwan was sassy, but respectful, only drinking, when necessary, to double the sass especially in times he needs to—like when someone starts to get too disrespectful to him during or off performance. Nonetheless, he was still a very sweet gentleman, who knows how to make the mood lighter–making him perfect for the job.

You just chuckled, giving him an understanding pat, and wishing him luck with the performance—not like you think he needed, considering the amount of talent the man holds.

The night grew busier and busier, with the thoughts from earlier finally fading. Dahyun and Minju visited you, ordering their usual rose tea with some light snacks. The two were not one with adoring the busy pub scene either, but the place was one of the best servers of alcoholic drinks as well as having the best singer in town–that there was a lot to be competing in.

“The drink was great as always Nayeon!” Dahyun thanked the older woman behind the wooden counter. Minju agreed, but frowned quickly as her dress’ sleeve got caught on one of the wooden splinters.

“Changbin should really get the counters fixed,” she muttered, loud enough for the two other girls to hear her. Unfortunately, the boy mentioned was blessed with sharp hearing, and in a matter of seconds, the man was now next to them.

“Believe me, that’s the third repair this month, but someone keeps picking on it. Chan’s getting frustrated.” Changbin crossed his arms, sighing in exasperation and empathy for his carpenter and artisan friend. The four then sighed in unison, thinking of the hardworking man and already imagining him frowning at how someone could ruin his handiworks.

After serving a few drinks to some patrons, you approached the four. Minju engaged in a short conversation before declaring that she would have to head home and sleep for another early hour shift for the next day. You bid them soon, voicing your concern for them to be careful on their way.

It was then that you, Changbin, and Nayeon were left, conversing for a short period of time before going back to work. Nayeon making the drinks, along with another colleague who had just arrived for his shift – Hansol; Changbin with managing and overseeing everyone, as well as greeting some of the regulars in his pub and even welcoming new faces, even helping with making drinks when needed; while you went around taking orders from the customers along with your co-workers, Chaeyoung, Moonbin, and Minghao.

The bustle of the tavern would have you grow exhausted and render you tired and knocked out after work, usually; however, today you were up and going on your toes. Your mind automatically leans into burning energy as a coping mechanism from what had occurred earlier that day. You were so on a roll that you barely noticed it was time for closing; only coming to mind when Chaeyoung tapped you on your shoulders and offering to walk home together.

“You’ve been spacing out lately, I figured I walk home with you so I can assure you get home safely.” Chaeyoung spoke, giving you a gentle smile as she looked down to fix and dust of her skirt.

You were touched with the kind thought of the girl, and who were you really to deny such an angelic person? You agreed with her, but not telling the reason that you agree because you also want to protect her in case some hooligans were to jump out of nowhere and even attempt to do things to you and Chaeyoung.

You were sent to be more at ease when Moonbin as well as Hansol offered to walk with you two. You knew you were capable of self defense, but with two more people, and a masculine form of intimidation, you were guaranteed safety. So, the walk home was very comfortable, alongside some quirky topics to converse in, it gave you peace at most.

💐

Peace was probably good in its own, but it was kind of bad in some way. Because when your mind feels at ease, you oversleep. Not that Minho minds it, he thinks you deserve all the rest you need after a long night at work. However, the usual time you arrive in, usually a little past noon, he’d expected you’d be there. But you weren’t.

Afternoon rush were very common in his store, and without you, Minho was somehow a fumbling mess here and there. It was bad enough that Sana—the girl who he was supposed to interview—was sat uneasily in a seat at the corner of the shop. The girl offering to help him with managing some of the customers, but Minho politely declined, and now she was forced to just watch as the man hurries from one place to the other.

A couple more hours after the rush hour and you finally arrived, perkier than before. Minho sighed in relief, after having to worry that something else could have happened to you. He greeted you but he got no reply as he watched you approach the cats, a small bundle of treats out of the pockets of your skirt.

“Oh, is that Ms. Y/n?” Sana asked, after having done with Minho’s briefing and approval that today she’d start work, but under your guidance.

“Yes.” He answered shortly, still gazing at you. Sana watched with hawk like curiosity at you two. “Uh…Just approach her and ask; she doesn’t seem too keen on talking to me.” And it piqued the girl, as Minho was left with the conundrum of what could he have possibly done for you to suddenly ignore him, and not his cats.

Sana nodded her head, approaching you cautiously so as not to trigger any negative feelings with you. “Hi,” she spoke timidly but brightly at the same time.

You looked up from the cats who were enjoying their treats—who you didn’t know were currently grounded and banned from eating treats for the week. You gave a curious look at the girl, despite the churning feeling of hurt inside you, you urged her to ask a question, which was obvious from the way she fiddled at the texture of her skirt.

“Minho said I’d be under your wing for the week. I’ll be learning the ropes around the shop with your guidance, as he said you were more experienced.” She said, fumbling again as she hurried to add her self introduction, “my mistake for not introducing. My name is Minatozaki Sana. I live just down the block from the marketplace. And I’ve always been interested in flowers.” Sana didn’t know just how to introduce herself to you, as you seemed to hold that unexplainable air of intimidation while also feeling approachable.

Pushing hard on the gnawing pain in your chest and stomach, you gave her your most genuine smile. You’d do this for Minho, even if there was an unexplainable feeling inside you. You didn’t want to name it jealously. But Sana seemed harmless and quite perfect with Minho, and you can’t help but sigh in defeat inside.

And it went on for a week. Maybe two or three. But Minho was sure you’ve been avoiding him, definitely. Because he’s been watching you for days with those forlorn eyes.

You barely arrived in time for rush hours, the way you always do. And when you had free time, you either spent it with the cats, or you’d go next door to Jungwoo. And it sends him reeling with feelings of hurt and jealousy, more than curiosity.

He asks himself why you suddenly avoided him? Was it something he did? Did he offend you in some way? He’d have deep talks with Soonie sometimes, but the cat just tells him to talk to you about it. But how was he supposed to talk to you, if you keep walking away from him when he was at arm’s length to you?

You were no better yourself. You watched the times when Sana and Minho would talk. They looked so comfortable with each other now. And when Sana laughs at Minho saying something, you just can’t look. Minho looks so soft with his gentle smile, and it makes your heart wrench. You almost want to hurl out your insides not out of disgust, but out of hurt. Hoping that vomiting it out could stop you from having these feelings.

You’ve been frequenting your visit with Jungwoo, just for the sole purpose of distraction. Because it was surely amusing to watch him decline date invites from men and women alike, who holds up the line in his little café. But you’re suddenly into people watching. You watched everyone’s gesture, developing the habit after having spaced out a lot of times. And Jungwoo’s café was the perfect place for it.

You also visited the daycare a lot. Finding comfort in the two girls, while also playing with some of the kids there. And it also piqued at you at Hyunjin and Seungmin’s predicament. After Hyunjin’s puppy love confession, the two have been inseparable. Always doing things together, confiding in the other, when one is lonely. And you felt jealousy for the kids, because you wanted to do the same with Minho.

….

…

You wanted what with Minho?!

You dropped the clay pot you were holding, breaking it to pieces, as both Sana and Minho rushed to your side.

“Y/n, are you okay? Are you hurt?” Minho fumbled, grasping your hand and stepping you away from the broken pieces of clay on the floor. Searching and scanning your hands for any scratch or open wound.

“I’ll go get the broom, you two don’t make a move or touch anything,” Sana hurries to the back room to pick up the long broom and pan.

You were too focused on your hands that were enveloped by Minho’s slightly larger ones.

You wanted to hold hands with Minho. You wanted to hold his hands, the way Hyunjin and Seungmin does. Not platonically, but romantically. You wanted to be there for him when he’s feeling alone, so you can give him your undivided love and affection.

That’s when it hit you that you really were feeling something more for your childhood friend.

“Y/n?” He looks into your eyes with unbridled concern and…love? “You can sit this one out and rest if you're not feeling well. I can even talk to Changbin so you don’t have to go to work.” His thumbs were rubbing the back of your hands in comfort, and it triggered the butterflies inside you stomach, especially now that you’ve something to name that feeling you had been feeling the past few weeks.

Love and hurt. Longing and jealousy.

Sana walks back into the room and starts sweeping hurriedly, all the while speaking out her concern for you. She was about to walk back to the back room of the shop to look for any medicinal herbs for if you did have any injuries.

But you ran away.

You fled from the scene, right after yanking your hands from the comfort of Minho’s calloused ones. Hearing both the concerned and shocked calls from Minho and Sana.

More than heart racing and fluster, you were feeling shame, regret and sadness at the late realization. The hurt from weeks of having it unnamed had increased ten fold now that you have a name for your emotion.

So you ran and ran, until you found yourself once more inside the daycare. It was still early, the kids were yet to be dismissed, so you halt in your running to catch your breath. Your feet aching from the heels you wore. Looking for a bench to sit on along with the other parents and guardians who were waiting. Minju got out on one of the rooms, and was surprised to see you come earlier.

“You’re here early. Anything happened?” She asked, concern written in her face as she scanned your out of breath form.

“We’ll talk later, you just go and finish what you need to do,” you assured her, not wanting to get her in trouble for talking during work hours.

Half an hour passed and the kids were finally dismissed. The five mischievous boys were still around, along with the three other little girls who were busy in their own world.

Minju found it appropriate that you now enter the room, sitting you down on the floor next to one of the children’s small table. “I’ll prepare some tea,” she says, scurrying to the daycare’s small kitchen in the back.

You were left with Dahyun who was quick to sit next to you on the floor. Your skirts littered the floor in bunches. “You need some water, you look like you ran around the country,” Dahyun said, handing you a glass of water.

You were quick to down the glass, and settle it gently on the small table. “I did. I did run to here.” You heaved in and out in slow breaths.

Dahyun nodded her head, sensing something good or interesting has happened. She leaned closer, her hands resting her chin as her elbows were propped on the table.

You know the look she’s giving so you spoke, “not until Minju is seated.” You scoffed, turning your head away as you weren’t really in to explaining everything that happened in repeated times.

Once the girl did arrive, you were quick to explain why you ran, coming to a conclusion, “I also just now realized my feelings for Minho…” You spoke timidly, unbeknownst to you the eavesdropping ears of the rascals.

“I knew it! Ms. Y/n does like Sir Minho!” Jisung announces, more so quick to celebrating than the two older girls.

“Ms. Y/n don’t worry, I’m sure Sir Minho likes you as well,” Chaeryeong spoke timidly, but her eyes sparkled.

“You rascals, you should never listen to adults talking,” Dahyun scolded light heartedly. The kids running away as she chased them around the room.

You thanked her for having quick senses on your feelings of vulnerability. You knew the kids meant well, but you were really in need of some safe space at the moment. Minju took your hand in hers, sandwiching it in comfortable warmth.

You’ve always been jealous of Minju having soft and smooth hands, as yours have always been rough at such a young age. Despite being soft, the surface of your hands were always rough, and littered with creases and lines. It was one of your insecurities, which was why you were quick to pull your hands away from Minho earlier.

“I’m proud of you coming to terms with your feelings, sweetie. But, I need you to be more confident in yourself. I can sense you feeling hesitant and insecure.” Minju softly voiced, giving you hand gentle massages to ease you from your worries. “Will you tell me what you feel at the moment?”

You sighed deeply, before speaking out your thoughts. “I feel very much insecure, you’re right.”

Minju nodded, “will you tell me what you’re most insecure about? I won’t pressure you if you feel uncomfortable.” She speaks, all the while giving your hand gentle presses.

“I just suddenly feel defeated… I feel like I’m not worthy of having Minho. I’m not perfect like Sana. And they especially look good together. Minho looks really comfortable with her, and I felt like I’m disrupting them, when I finally came to terms with how I feel.”

Minju frowned, upset to hear you bringing yourself down. But she urged you to continue, wanting you to let out what you feel so you’d be carrying a lighter load in the future. And once you were done, she was quick to envelope you in her arms.

With you two having sat on the floor, it was easier to engulf you in warmth. You feeling small, yet safe around the warmth of your dear friend. Silently sobbing out your insecurities as she whispered the words you needed to hear in that moment.

Dahyun did her best to distract the kids and give you two the time you need, but she can only do as much, as the kids now turn their attention to you two.

Yongbok gasps, sparkles lighting his eyes as his freckles as the sight of you two, “it’s a cuddle pile!” The little boy giggles excitedly, wanting to be involved in the cuddles.

His twin, Jisung, joins. Running with arms wide open as the two tried their best to hug you and Minju with their little arms.

Jeongin, Chaeryeong, Yeji and Lia as well, running up to you and jumping to hug. Hyunjin and Seungmin going last. Seungmin a bit reluctant, but going along as Hyunjin tugged him along.

“You kids,” Dahyun sighed exasperated, however joining the pile as well, the last to wrap her arms around all of you, even if you all didn’t fit.

Minho wasn’t doing well. Even more heart broken with how you ran away from him; stressed because he never knew what the reason was for you to avoid him. Most of all, missing your cheery aura, that was all for him. He had a possessive side, that was much, but it wasn’t bad. He just was naturally drawn to you like a magnet.

“You should talk to Y/n,” Sana speaks up, noticing the broken look of Minho. “There seemed to be a misunderstanding.”

Minho looked back to her, confused.

“She likes you Minho, that much is obvious,” Sana chuckles. “But she seemed to look at us as something more. You know I don’t swing that way.”

Minho felt bare and exposed. Was he wearing his heart on his sleeves to be read that easily? Was it really obvious that he was giving you the heart eyes? The longing, forlorn looks? The subtle chuckles when he sees you communicating with the cats, but he very well knows that you aren’t on the same page as the cats—as he can communicate with them?

“Let’s close up the shop. You need time to gather your thoughts.” Sana gives him a reassuring smile and pat, leaving for the shop’s front door, and flipping the sign. Carrying the displays inside the shop, and doing a bit of sweeping.

Once Minho snaps out of his thoughts, he helped with closing the shop. A bit fidgety, he was. Concerned, of course, but he was formulating the things he wanted to say. And if Sana is right that you feel the same as him, then he needs to let it all bare. He has to be honest to you and clear up the misunderstanding.

After he closed the shop, and bidding Sana a farewell, he wrote a letter to Changbin, asking for a two day leave in your stead, explaining how you seemed to be out of it and not in the right mindset lately. But also leaving out the fact that he needs to talk to you about something important.

Minho calls for Soonie, asking the older cat to send the letter to Changbin. While some people had their own messenger birds, Minho mostly did his messaging through his cats. Not finding it fit to have a bird as a messenger when he had three cats.

After the older cat left, Minho quickly wrote another letter. This one was for you. Asking for some of your time and talk about what you were feeling. He tried to be very obvious in the letter that he missed you, and he hoped you were feeling up for it. He did say he would respect your decision if you wouldn’t want to talk at the moment.

And after having written the letter, he called for Dori, asking the young cat to deliver the letter. He then watched as the grey cat walked away happily and out of the shop through their little cat door.

“That’s unfair. Why don’t I get to deliver letters?” Doongie meowed, upset.

Minho scoffed at the second oldest. “You’re mischievous. Who knows what you could’ve done to the letter?”

Doongie meowed louder, “I’m literally a cat!”

Minho chuckled, tapping on to his thighs. “I’m sorry. I’ll let you send letters in the future.” He grinned, naturally weak for his cats.

And although Doongie was such a mischievous little one of his, he was grateful for the cuddles that the cat gave him. Automatically giving him comfort.

He decided that he needs the comfort of a male friend, so he made sure to take note in confiding to Jungwoo before he gets to talk to you.

A little while into the afternoon while walking on your way home, a white dove lands softly on your head; blocking your view with an envelope. You noticed the dove to be Changbin’s. You thought back to when Changbin had sent you a mail through his messenger bird, actually expecting a bird close to the more predator type, seeing as the man himself looked intimidating. But you may have judged him by his cover then, because Changbin was a pure and honest man himself.

Picking at the letter gently, you thanked the beautifully, untainted bird. The dove nuzzling the top of your head in affection before flying off.

Upon opening the letter, you see the words written in bold that you’re given two days off from work, without proper explanation. And as much as you want to storm to the pub, or even the man’s home itself, you knew just how stubborn Changbin is once he makes a decision.

Sighing, you snugged the letter safely inside your pocket.

Your mood have slightly improved with Minju and Dahyun’s comfort, as well as having the kids give you a cuddle pile. And you didn’t think you’d be taking advice from a child, but here you were, engraving young Hyunjin’s advice into your brain.

Honesty is the best way to go especially when communicating. Just let it all out Ms. Y/n. If Sir Minho loves you as well, then he will love your everything even if you hate them.

You sighed, thinking how running away from this would be useless. And if Minho were to not reciprocate your feelings, you deemed it better, as long as you know he’s happy. It would be worth the try. You just hoped he keeps being friends with you.

Your thoughts of planning to talk to him tomorrow, as you do have two days off, were interrupted as you felt something brushing on your legs. You look down to see Dori, who had a letter in its mouth. You knew then that it was a message from Minho.

Scared that it would be a message of him scolding you from earlier, you didn’t pick it up. You were afraid you’d let out some tears. Instead, you picked up the cat, and took long strides to your house, finding it more fit that you read the letter in a more private setting.

After setting Dori down inside your home, you gave the young cat some treats, and a small bowl of water. Taking the letter gently out of its mouth and opening it nervously.

However, upon opening, you were not greeted with the ominous aura or wording. Instead, you find that it’s quite hinting differently. At the very bottom, he was asking you to meet him at midnight at Mooncross Lake. The lake where you two would usually play to by yourselves when you were kids.

There seemed to be more to the letter as you read the first alphabets of each word at the left side of the paper. Each row’s first letters creating the phrase “I miss you.”

It raised your hopes. Heightened the feeling inside your stomach. Leaving your heart racing.

Minho knew you all too well. He knows how you loved solving puzzles, deciphering riddles, theorizing, and the like. And for him to incorporate as such in the letter, it left your mind at ease, all the while feeling hopeful.

Hopeful that he’d feel the same.

And so when night came, you were antsy. Dori left after demanding some cuddles from you, and you were left to feel anxious until you felt that it was finally time to meet up with Minho.

The track to the lake was safe, as the path were illuminated by magic lamps. If someone were to jump out of nowhere, and cause trouble, you were prepared; having a small emergency dagger around your neck.

The necklace having its pendant designed in the shape of a dagger. Only does it become the right hand held size when manifested with mana. It was a present that Jungwoo gave to you and Minju to help you to protect yourself especially at night.

Once you approach, the lake, you were greeted with the man’s silhouette, illuminated by the moonlight, both from the moon itself, as well as from the reflection of the lakes surface. The dark tones creating a mirror, an illusion of no land and only space.

You approached the form. An all to familiar form. You know it’s Minho, from all the times you’ve known him and looked at him, you have his everything memorized. Even the gestures and mannerisms he does.

“Minho?” You called out. Your voice acting as knife that cut through the night’s serene silence.

And you were right, as the silhouette now turned to you. Minho approached you, his leather shoes creating a rhythm with the grass and some fallen leaves. Accompanied were the sounds of metal clanking from the lamp he carried, along with the rustle of his rucksack making contact with his shirt. Only now did he light the lamp using the matchbox he had with him.

Setting down the lamp, he pulled out a small blanket from his rucksack. It looked to be the only thing in his pack. He sat down, both your distance from the lake, a good 10 feet away. Once he was comfortably seated, he held out his hand, asking for yours.

You hesitantly gave yours, but freed from his grasp just as fast after sitting. Minho looked away sadly, which you missed as you turned your head away. Both of you still wrapped around in misunderstanding but Minho wants to clear it up as fast, afraid to prolong the heartache he’s been feeling.

The serene silence turns tense. The crickets being the only one to speak its thoughts in the cold spring air.

“I…” Minho starts, after finally gathering his courage.

You turn to look at him, and with the lamp shining from below you two, you were able to make out the distant and hurt look that painted his face. It made your heart clench.

Why was he unhappy? Was the “I miss you” just you reading into too much things, and he’s actually just finding it hard to look for the words to say that he’s not interested in you?

Oh how you wished to go back through time to save yourself from the embarrassment waiting to happen.

“I’m sorry…” He says quietly. And as if the air wasn’t tainted with enough tension and awkwardness, the crickets have stopped their chorus, making the air more unbearable.

You couldn’t handle the tears, as they make their way out your orbs and dance freely to kiss the air of cool spring. You sobbed silently, you breathing held.

But how can you hold your breath for long? Of course you couldn’t. So the silence was once more disrupted as you heaved in deeply, the snot that has formed clogged your breathing, making it more audible that you were indeed crying.

“I know, let’s just stop this. Th-there’s clearly no way you would like me. Why did I even get my h-hopes up.” You sobbed in between your breaths.

Minho was worried with how you suddenly cried. Taking you in his arms, he started rubbing his hands up and down your back. He didn’t mind the wet patch that has formed as he leaned your forehead to rest on his shoulders.

“How can you think this way, Y/n? Of course I like you…” His other hand made it’s way to your head. Your hair loosely hanging, making it easier to thread his fingers through, massaging your scalp comfortingly.

“You’re obligated to like me…because I’m your, f-friend…” You never thought that the word friend could wound your heart so deeply.

Minho felt his heart ache. Did you really see his affection as an obligation?

“See it as you will, but I like you genuinely. I like you to the point it hurts my heart. You don’t even know how much you make me feel at ease when I’m with you…” Minho hugged you closer to him, afraid of losing you if he didn’t hold on tighter.

“I like you even more than how normal friends see each other. I see myself with you. In my past, my present, and future. I’m sorry I haven’t been verbal with my affection for you, but I don’t think words can explain how I feel, Y/n.”

Your sobbing dies down slowly, as you listened to him further explain. And the more he explained, the more your heart was left beating.

“I’m sorry for the unnecessary misunderstanding I’ve created, Y/n. I never wanted to get rid of you. I never even had the slightest thought about it…” Minho explains, after having talked with Jungwoo. Your friend reading your feelings as something akin to fear. It was close, because you did have a fear of losing Minho.

“But, you like Sana. I know, because you look at her with something… it’s something close to love…And when she looks at you, you suddenly look away…” You clenched on Minho’s shirt. Hurt flashing across you once more as you thought to that scene of Minho looking fondly at Sana.

Minho is baffled. He doesn’t even remember looking at the girl in that way. Could it have been a coincidence? Because he remembers looking at you with heart eyes—admittedly—and it just so happens that Sana is right behind you, catching him on the act, that probably triggers his flustered reaction.

Suddenly he can’t help but let out a fond chuckle. And it hurt you more, thinking that he’s ridiculing you, causing you to slightly push him away.

The gesture clutches at Minho’s heart, but he has to clear up the misunderstanding before even thinking about giving up.

“You never let me explain properly…” Minho sighs, taking one of your hand still in his.

You looked away in shame. Ever since talking to him finally, you never made the first step, even having the guts to push him away and put words in his mouth.

As if sensing your negative thoughts, Minho’s other hand cups your jaw, turning you to look at him straight in the eyes, as he starts explaining properly. “Me turning away, was due to Sana catching me in the act of looking at you, fondly.”

“I don’t think I can ever look at someone the same way I look at you. I want you to trust me. To believe me; that my heart is only for you.” He placed a kiss on your forehead, before continuing, “besides, Sana is married, and I believe she’s not interested in men.”

At the news, your eyes grew like saucers. You never noticed this, not even the ring that glistens on Sana’s finger whenever the sun’s ray hit her hands. How could you have missed that?

“Why do you think I let Sana be under your wing? Other than you being more than capable enough to teach a newcomer, it’s also because she said that she’d be more comfortable if she worked with the same gender.” Minho spoke, explaining how Sana had spoke vaguely about having bad experiences with men.

“She seemed comfortable with you though?” You asked, still quite confused.

“About that,” Minho chuckles again, his cheeks now a blooming shade of pink, a tint of yellow from the lamp’s candlelight making the shade a bit orange. “Sana thought we were married, and just so happened to be in a quarrel.”

It was your turn to flush. The thought of being married with Minho fluttered your heart to no end.

“A lot of people seemed to think that way…” Minho spoke. He’s hinting something. Hinting at you how both your affection for each other goes beyond being just friends, that people could easily mistake you for a couple.

“I don’t think I’m done explaining what I feel, but I can’t find any more words, so I will let you have your turn to speak. And if time comes I need to explain more, I will keep letting you know, until you know just how much I adore you; romantically. Because I promise you, no words can explain just how much I feel for you.”

Tears well up in your eyes; overwhelm being an understatement. “I’m sorry I’ve been avoiding you,” you started, heaving in another breath as another wave of tears wells up and ready to fall. “I was scared of losing you, I didn’t know what to do.”

You sniffled, wiping the tears that can’t stop falling. Minho now cupping your cheeks with both hands as he did the wiping for you, making a silent promise to never give you any reason to cry.

“You—she…she just seemed so perfect for you. I can never compete. I’m just me. She’s almost sent from the heavens, made for you. And her hands look soft and smooth and perfect for you…”

Minho grasps your hands with both of his, resting them on his face, “but these are the hands that I love. These hard working ones who helped get through the day. These gentle hands that holds mine when I need them. These caring hands that took care of my kids and flowers with so much care in the world.”

He retaliates your insecurities with the things he came to love about you, and it brought more than enough comfort inside you. “Your hands are rough, and it’s enough proof for what kind of person you are. I’m not saying that Sana is the complete opposite and is lazy—as she’s hard working as well,” Minho chuckles, and it made you let out one as well, knowing that the girl worked hard as well as everyone you knew. “But know that there’s more to you than what you seem. I want you to slowly see yourself the way others, especially the ones you’re close with, see you.”

You nod your head, closing the gap between you to and wrap yourselves once more in a comforting hug. “I apologize again for ignoring you,” you whispered sadly.

Minho rubs your back comfortingly, “I admit I was hurt, but it’s all okay now. As long as you’re here with me.”

You finally sighed contently after weeks of constant hurt and confusion, that you let the words slip past easily from your lips, “I love you.”

Minho can’t help the lovesick grin forming on his lips, as he replied back, “I love you, too.”

An eruption of butterflies from both of you, along with the racing of heart beats, that you swore you can feel his in sync with yours through his thin shirt.

“Does this mean I’m yours?” You asked curiously with a shy smile, looking up from where you rested your head on his shoulder.

Minho’s smile never faded, only growing wider that the corners of his eyes wrinkles in happiness. “Yes. As I am yours, too.”

Your heart wrenches in pain, but not from hurt. You feel something close to a flower blooming, and it was enough explanation that you were absolutely in love with your childhood friend.

“I’m yours, and you’re mine.” You whispered to yourself, smiling.

Minho hears, and replies, “Yes, I’m yours and you’re mine.” He smiles to himself, humming a song in content as he pressed occasional kisses on top of your head, and on your hands that were interlocked. Watching the scenery, just in time as the nocturnal flowers start to bloom, where some even emitted a gentle, blue glow.

Minho could’ve gone with confessing during the day where the flowers were most beautiful to admire and would fit the situation, but this worked well. The night in combination with the nocturnal flowers. They’re like you, he thinks. You’re most active in the night and he found it as beautiful as the flowers in the day. And he thinks that this moment he shares with you tonight, is still as perfect and budding with romance as any other spring love told.

#skz lee minho x reader #lee know x reader #skz lee know #skz fluff #skz angst #skz scenarios #skz imagines #skz oneshots #from bruh-changbin's spring fling collab

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