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icequeenbae · 3 months

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Boy Next Door (m) Ch.1 | BBH

Pairing: Baekhyun x Reader

Neighbor AU, slow burn, hurt/comfort, fluff, smut

Warnings [whole story]: Baek being the neighbor we’re all dreaming of, harassment (nothing graphic), a bit of body image/ insecurity, MC sucks at relationships, explicit content, unprotected sex

Word Count: ~18.5k (total), 4.5k (pt.1)

Summary: Your neighbor Baekhyun has been a pleasant acquaintance since you moved into your current apartment almost a year ago. Could he also be… a perfect match?

Chapter Masterlist: Pt. 1 > Pt. 2 > Pt. 3 > Pt. 4 (fin)

Author’s note: This has taken me so, SO long to write and edit that I cannot believe the time has come to post it lmao I just wanted to write something simple with the classic boy-next-door vibe but as usual, the story ended up being much longer than planned and I am going to post it as a mini-series. Please keep in mind that your feedback is what motivates me to write and post more <3 And biiig thanks to the lovely @beomcoups for taking on the beta duties on this whole story~

Network Tags: @bbh-net @k-vanity @ksmutsociety

PART 1

In the lobby or on your floor – those were the two locations where you’d been bumping into Baekhyun most often. Which wasn’t that strange, considering that you were neighbors. But it somehow always caught you off guard and left you flustered.

Just like the first time.

It happened almost a year ago when you were waiting for the elevator on the first floor of your building with your best friend Yuki, who came early to help you with preparations. A guy in a loose white dress shirt and jeans stepped into the elevator with you, politely greeting you before pressing his floor number.

‘Oh, you live on the 13th as well? So, you and our Y/N are neighbors!’ Yuki exclaimed.

‘Nice to meet you,’ you muttered and bowed, shy from the sudden introduction. He reciprocated, chocolate hair falling into his eyes charmingly.

‘You should come to her housewarming party! It’s in a couple hours,’ Yuki chimed in again. ‘You don’t need to bring anything, it’s just a small thing with a couple friends and neighbors. We’re making sure Y/N-ie settles in nicely here. So please come, we have tons of food!’

If anyone could ever say no to your friend… Well, you had never met such a person. You guessed that Baekhyun was simply too stunned by her enthusiasm, so he said he’d swing by for sure. In a way, you were thankful that she’d asked him – you’d have never had the guts to invite someone like that; especially not anyone as good-looking and cool as Baekhyun.

You regretted letting your bestie invite him the following evening when your party was in full swing for several hours. Most of the food was devoured, so now you were all drinking, crunching on snacks, and conversing; or trying to while jumping from one topic to another.

‘I wish we could gather more often. We all like to hang out with you, you know?’

As always, Yuki nagged at you for being too ‘stay-at-home’ of a friend.

‘I like to hang out too. But home is home. You know parties aren’t really my… favorite pastime.’

‘What is your favorite pastime, lying in bed cuddling your blanket?’ Chanyeol joked insensitively.

He should’ve known better since you were the most troubled in your group of friends regarding relationships. It was super tough for you to find a match, even when you made an effort to get out of the house and meet new people, mostly because of your history of failed relationships where your partners gained interest in someone else. It seemed like you were too plain to hold someone’s attention for long. So, you’d been ‘that single friend’ for several lonely years now. And at this time, you were actually in the very beginning of a new, promising relationship. You were still pretty insecure about it; thus, Yeol’s comment really did make you flinch. He was drunk, so that was understandable, but you still sulked at his words, mainly because they were true.

‘Hey, it doesn’t have to be a blanket.’ You frowned, pressing the straw to your lips in frustration.

‘I’m kinda sad that guy you’ve been talking to couldn’t come,’ Yuki interjected. ‘I wanted to find out what he’s like.’

‘Minho had work-related travel, so he’s resting up.’ You shrugged, sipping your drink timidly.

‘I’m sure the guy made this excuse just to avoid meeting your friends. How long have you known him for, like, two days?’ Chanyeol interjected.

‘It’s been a few weeks, actually,’ you corrected, and Hoseok, Yuki’s boyfriend, muttered a reproaching ‘hyung’ in his direction.

‘Gosh, you’re really this stupid while drunk,’ Yuki shook her head disapprovingly at your friend, who simply shrugged.

Baekhyun was pretty silent during the latest exchange, so when you briefly made eye contact, it reminded you that he could also hear all of that chatter. Which made you want to choke on your drink from humiliation. Thankfully, one of your friends still had some tact left that night, so they quickly changed the direction of the conversation. Still… you’d been mortified for weeks after the event, doing your best to avoid bumping into Baekhyun when leaving for work.

***

The next time you met, Baekhyun was also in the lobby of your apartment building. And once again, before a gathering at your place. Just days prior you had lost it and left your resignation letter at your boss's desk. Working such long hours under the constant pressure of absolutely unrealistic deadlines was taking its toll on you for sure. But when you found out they promoted a person, who was obviously less experienced and capable than you in working (but more capable in flirting with your manager), instead of you… It became the last straw.

Baekhyun appeared right on time as you struggled to push the elevator button with a whole case of beer in your hands.

‘Y/N,’ you heard his velvety voice call. ‘Nice to see you.’

‘Oh- Hi, Baekhyun.’ You greeted awkwardly, puffing from the weight you had to balance.

‘Let me help you with that?’ His suggestion sounded like a question, yet he instantly scooped the case from your hands.

‘You don’t need- thank you,’ you said, and he shook his head to indicate that it wasn’t a big deal.

‘So… having a party again?’ He asked as the elevator doors closed.

‘I wouldn’t call it a party,’ you hummed, looking at your feet. ‘I kinda had to quit my horrible job of 4 years, so my friends are making me celebrate it. Not that becoming unemployed calls for a celebration…’

You trailed off, not wanting to be a nuisance to your neighbor. He was just making small talk.

‘I’m sorry to hear that. Are you taking a break now or looking for something else?’

‘I’ll start looking next week. It’s Friday, my friends are coming… So I’ll try to just clear my mind and rest for one full weekend before I start stressing about a new job. Hopefully, my friends wouldn’t talk my ear off about it – that’s what the beer’s for. My little trick,’ you chuckled sheepishly.

‘Aren’t your friends supposed to treat you in this situation?’ Baekhyun huffed, shaking his head to rearrange his hair and better see you.

‘They should… bring more alcohol with them, I think. I couldn’t have them over for nothing, though.’

The doors opened after a robotic voice announced your floor.

‘Well, anyhow. Thanks a lot for your help!’ You tried taking the beer from Baekhyun, but he didn’t let you.

‘Open the door first; you can’t do it while holding this.’

‘Right. Thanks,’ you fussed, pressing your password in.

Baekhyun quickly placed the case on the floor of your hallway.

‘You should come!’ You blurted out, instantly getting flustered. ‘If you want.’

‘I might drop by if I’m free,’ he smiled softly. ‘My family wanted to have a video call later. That may take long.’

‘Of course. Have fun!’ You nodded, beating yourself up in your mind for being so weird suddenly.

‘You have fun,’ he chuckled, stepping towards his apartment. ‘Oh, and Y/N?’

Looking up at him as he called your name, you were met with his warm yet serious eyes.

‘If you need anything… You know where to find me.’

That made you strangely sentimental.

‘T-thank you.’

He sent you a message later on and let you know he couldn’t make it to your party. But in a way, he was there – on your mind.

***

It was about three weeks after you’d broken things off with Minho. If you could even consider it one, the relationship wasn’t long, only a couple months. At first, you thought it could be something, realizing later that it was only wishful thinking. There was no way the two of you could make it work; you were just not compatible with each other. The more you got to know him, the more you were reassured of that. Your life goals were different, your outlook on relationships was different… even your ideas of quality time with a significant other didn’t match. This time, the initial infatuation wore off rather quickly – probably because you didn’t go out of your way to appease him. You knew it was probably for the better. Pretty much all of your relationships ended the same way, with your boyfriends telling you they found someone else. Someone… more exciting.

This was the case for your first relationship halfway in your first year of university.

‘I’m sorry, Y/N. I just don’t feel the spark, you know? You’re so… domestic,’ your then-boyfriend said in his breakup speech. ‘I’m young, I want to experience stuff, be bold, and have fun. And there are people that I can do this with, who’ll also enjoy it.’

It repeated less than two years later when you’d barely worked up the courage to try and start something with another person. When it happened the third time, you decided you weren’t really made for relationships. It was ironic since you always wanted to be in one. You were very affectionate and were keen on taking care of people. Yes, you weren’t that into big gatherings and parties, and maybe it was a little too difficult to drag you anywhere when you were stressing about the upcoming tests and stuff… But you weren’t completely closed off! Even with those limitations, you were very sociable and had many friends. Was it so bad that you didn’t say yes to every suggestion? Did your inclination to stay at home and have cozy dates instead of outdoorsy stuff make you a non-relationship material? It seemed like every time someone else appeared, your boyfriends easily decided to move on.

And even though you weren’t in love with Minho, this breakup still made you sour. What made this particular day suck was that you’d found out that he was already in a new relationship; happily broadcasting it everywhere.

You weren’t jealous of him for being with someone else. You envied him for being able to find another partner in mere days after you parted ways, while for you, it felt like you’d never find or be able to retain anyone. Ever. Never ever.

‘Earth to Y/N!’ You jumped from someone’s voice ringing in your ears.

Looking up, you saw that the elevator doors were held open by your dashing neighbor, who was staring directly at you.

‘Sorry, I spaced out,’ you quickly entered. ‘Hi.’

‘Hey,’ Baekhyun smiled, pressing the button for your floor. ‘Is everything okay?’

‘Um, yeah. No. I mean-’ You sighed. ‘I’m just a bit out of sorts.’

‘Trouble at work?’

‘No, my new job is great. A huge improvement on the previous one. It’s just… everything else is not nearly as great?’

Yeah, because you pushed yourself to get back on the market to finally not be alone, and here you were. Back to square one.The sniffling you produced startled even your own self.

‘Oh god, I’m sorry.’

‘It’s okay. There’s nothing to be sorry about,’ he replied, his voice gentle. ‘Do you want to talk?’

‘Oh no, I wouldn’t dream about boring you with my stupid problems.’

‘I’m sure they aren’t stupid,’ he said. ‘And I have ice cream. Almost any flavor you could think of.’

You looked at him silently, and he smiled again reassuringly.

‘It’s not mandatory for you to tell me anything. But I can treat my favorite neighbor with some ice cream, can I not?’

‘Am I your favorite just because you don’t know anyone else?’ You snickered gawkily.

‘No. Not just-’

He was interrupted by the usual announcement of your floor.

‘So, what do you think? You can change first and then come, no hurry. I’m free tonight.’

You puckered your lips, genuinely intrigued by his offer. Ice cream sounded perfect right about now. Although agreeing just because of the promised treats was pretty childish, you couldn’t help but be seduced by his suggestion. So, you gave him a shy nod.

‘Okay. Throw on something comfy and come over.’

You entered your respective apartments, and only after the door behind you locked… you realized that your heart was racing.

‘Damn you, Y/N, why did you agree to do this??’ You whined, catching a glimpse of your scrunched-up face in the mirror.

Fishing your phone out of your handbag quickly, you messaged Yuki.

You | I fucked up, Yu!!

You | Idk what to do now…. ㅠㅠ

Ki-yaah | What happened?? Did you like a pic on Minho’s new gf’s SNS??

Ki-yaah | I’m so dumb for telling you about this… I’m so sorry Y/N ㅠㅠ

You | No, not that

You | Who cares about Minho and his girlfriend??

You | I mean, I was a bit salty about this… But I met Baekhyun again!

Ki-yaah | Baekhyun? Your cute as fuck neighbor Baekhyun??

You | No

You | Yes?

You | My neighbor Baekhyun. I blurted out that I wasn’t in the greatest mood, and he invited me to his place for ice cream!

Ki-yaah | WHAT

Ki-yaah | YAH

Ki-yaah | THAT SLEEK BASTARD

Ki-yaah | I hope you’re texting me from his couch

Ki-yaah | Or kitchen counter

Ki-yaah | Or wherever you kids decide to do it

A bunch of obscene emojis appeared on your screen, making you blush on the spot.

You | Do it?? We’re not doing anything. I’m home!

Ki-yaah | So, you’ve already done it?? HOW WAS IT??

Ki-yaah | Waaah, you’re quick these days, Y/N-ah! Finally, you’re learning your lessons

Ki-yaah | I hope you wrapped it up though

Ki-yaah | I wouldn’t blame you if you skipped it, though, I can imagine how starved you are on good sex.. Still, safety first!

Ki-yaah | Wait, so was he?? Any good??

Ki-yaah | You’re silent!

She typed so fast that you didn’t even have a second to write back, mostly from shock – your friend wasn’t always this shameless, actually.

Then she started calling.

‘Yah, why aren’t you spilling the beans?? Too worn out to type, bestie?’ She smirked on the phone, making you cringe.

‘Because there’s nothing to spill! I haven’t even gone over yet.’

There was a second of silence.

‘… What?!’

‘I have to change; I just came from work, you know? My makeup needs fixing too…’

Your phone instantly started vibrating as a video call request came in, which you begrudgingly accepted.

‘Damn, you can’t go like this. It’s not seductive at all!’ She exclaimed.

‘I’m not going over to seduce anyone! And he told me to wear something comfy…’

‘What?? Hm, actually…’ She tapped her index finger on her chin, deep in thought. ‘He does look like the type to be into that.’

‘I-into what?’

‘Cute girls! I told you already, he was probably crushing on you since the time he came to your housewarming party!’

‘Pfft, that’s ridiculous. And don’t bring up him allegedly glaring at Yeol for his stupid comments again, I beg of you!’

‘Alright. But he’s always so nice to you! Oh-Em-Gee, you’d look so cute together,’ she squealed.

‘I don’t have time for this. I can’t have him waiting for much longer, and I need to shower…’

‘Yes! And remove your makeup while you’re at it.’

‘Huh?? If I redo my makeup… isn’t it gonna look strange? Like I’m trying too hard?’

‘You won’t have to redo it. You’ll have only very basic nude makeup on. Looking all natural and cute.’

‘I swear, if you say ‘cute’ one more time-’

‘Can’t a girl dream?? I can already imagine how cute your children would be…’ Your friend kept musing.

‘I’m hanging up.’

‘Yah, take this seriously. Clean up nicely, and let your hair down. Also, shave your-’

‘Yuki!!’

‘You never know!! One second, he’s licking ice cream off his spoon; the other, he’s l-’

Quickly tapping on your phone screen, you canceled this embarrassing call. The vivid images didn’t leave your mind as fast, though, so you shivered, shaking your head to get rid of the obscenities.

‘She’s a bad influence, for sure,’ you muttered, still ashamed of yourself for imagining your neighbor in such a context.

The time was ticking, so you decided that Yuki was somewhat right and needed to clean up. You also needed to hurry the heck up; you didn’t want to make Baekhyun wait too long. Thirty minutes later, you were in front of his door.

‘Come in, come in,’ he ushered you inside, having you change your footwear for the pink house slippers.

Why did he have those again?

‘Cute, right? I ordered them for my niece and got the size completely wrong, but they fit you perfectly. I guess I wasn’t wrong after all.’

He looked at your feet for another second before blinking and clearing his throat.

‘Let’s not waste any more time, everything’s ready. Come on!’

Everything? Did he prepare a whole reception?

You took a good look at the back of his head as he walked you to his kitchen, noticing that his hair was slightly wet. Did he also shower? You swallowed at the thought. He probably didn’t invest as much time into the preparations as you did, though. You blamed your best friend for the inappropriate thought she planted in your head!

‘Here, take a look.’

He opened his freezer, and you gasped.

There was an entire collection of ice cream. Cones, popsicles, buckets… All different flavors and manufacturers.

‘I see you’re impressed,’ he smirked. ‘I have a niece and a nephew, you know? Kids aren’t easy to please these days.’

‘Can’t deny that I am. How many do you have here?’

‘No idea… I just keep buying them. Which one’s to your liking? You can try different ones. I’m in the mood for mint choco and lemon.’

‘Those are my favorites!’ You jumped up like a kid.

‘Really? Both?’

‘Yeah! I haven’t seen a lemon ice cream anywhere, only sorbets! Where did you find it?’ You closed the freezer as he got the two buckets out.

Baekhyun suddenly seemed pleased with himself.

‘You think I give away trade secrets just like that…’ He replied mysteriously.

‘I wanna buy some too,’ you pouted, circling around him while he took the lids off. ‘If you don’t tell me… I’ll eat all of yours!’

‘Ha, go ahead. There’s more where that came from,’ he teased right back, hovering slightly over you.

Lowering your gaze to avoid staring directly at him, you noticed something.

‘What’s this?’

Baekhyun turned back to the counter.

‘Ah, this old thing? You know how ice cream scoops are sold in paper cups or cones? This thing,’ he picked it up. ‘Is to make those. Watch.’

He dipped the instrument in water and shook it slightly, then scooped the mint ice cream, creating a smooth green ball with tiny pieces of chocolate adding to its hue.

‘Cool,’ you muttered, genuinely finding that fascinating.

‘Right? It’s awesome!’

‘Let me guess: the kids don’t appreciate it enough?’ You asked.

‘Those little- Here, you try with lemon.’ He pressed on a small lever and dropped the green globe into a bowl.

You shook your head.

‘I’ll mess it up; you do it.’

‘Come on, Y/N. You can’t mess it up; it’s just ice cream.’

‘Just ice cream? You don’t deserve to know the secret selling spots for this!’

He snorted, moving to the side to give you more space to try and repeat his previous actions.

You dipped it in water like he did and shook it before moving the lemon ice cream bucket closer. Spending about twenty seconds taking aim, you huffed.

‘I can’t do it! Yours is so round and pretty; I am not that professional.’

‘I’ll help,’ he chuckled at your meltdown, holding your wrist and softly pressing down on your hand to guide it. ‘Scoop it this way to make it full and round.’

You did as you were told, yet your mind was far away from the scooping technique. The entire focus of your being was now set on the unprecedented proximity you were in. He held your hand, his chest so close to your shoulder that you could feel the heat radiating off him. When you dropped a yellow ball of lemon ice cream into the bowl, you could only pray that he didn’t notice the goosebumps littering your arms.

‘See? Yours is even better-shaped than mine,’ he hummed close to your ear.

‘Y-yeah.’

As if sensing your perturbation, Baekhyun suddenly stepped back.

‘Trying just two flavors is a waste of an evening. Let’s get more.’

Ten minutes later, you were sitting in his living room at the small table in front of his couch. The bowl with at least a dozen different ice creams sat atop another one, which was filled with ice.

‘No one likes melted goo, right?’ Baekhyun chuckled while constructing this mobile freezer.

You tried all of them one by one, gushing about each flavor.

‘The grape one isn’t tickling my fancy,’ he said, nudging the oddly-colored glob away.

‘Really?’ You reached for it with your spoon.

‘Don’t even try it. That’s bad,’ he scrunched his nose. ‘I can taste every chemical they used to make this grape flavor.’

You laughed, trying it despite his protests.

‘It tastes like… very cheap jelly,’ you said.

‘Exactly! Such a strange texture. Hmm, I shall look for a better option then. My nephew Siwoo loves grapes.’

You smiled at his concern for his youngest family member’s preferences.

‘Your nephews must be the happiest kids in town with an uncle like that,’ you murmured, stealing a bite from the rest of the lemon ball that he subtly nudged your way earlier.

‘They’re pretty lucky, aren’t they?’ He agreed easily, earning a snicker from you.

As you savored the last of the lemon flavor on your tongue, he leaned in, eyes focused on your lips.

‘You eat just like Siwoo,’ he instinctively wiped your lower lip with his thumb.

Looking up at him, you caught the moment he realized what he was doing and retreated.

‘Sorry,’ he muttered awkwardly. ‘It’s a habit.’

Pressing your finger to your lower lip, which was now burning, you shook your head neutrally.

‘It’s okay. You must spend a lot of time with them,’ you scooped more in your spoon to somehow soothe the burn on your lips.

‘Not as much as I’d like. Most of the time, our schedules don’t match up, especially with them living in a different city. I try to have them over or visit them as much as possible.’

Baekhyun’s voice became warmer as he reminisced.

‘I get scolded by hyung a lot for spoiling them. But what can I do? At least they’ll have those pleasant memories and presents to remember me by while we’re apart.’

‘Are they close in age?’

‘About four years apart. Seoyul is pretty grown already; I can’t believe her little brother is going to school soon as well.’ He smiled, remembering something. ‘When she started her first grade, he was so upset. He cried every time she left the house.’

‘Aw, that’s so cute,’ you cooed. ‘So they’re getting along well?’

‘Yeah, apart from the occasional bickering. Siwoo is… a boy.’

‘A little daredevil?’

‘He’s driving his noona insane sometimes. To be honest, I was exactly the same at his age. We’re both lucky to have siblings several years older.’

‘Ah, so your hyung is much older than you?’

‘Seven years. He was almost like a father,’ Baekhyun chuckled. ‘But had he been even a couple of years younger… Pretty sure he would’ve given me a piece of his mind back then.’

‘I wouldn’t ever imagine that you were a maknae of your family.’

‘Why? I had so much aegyo as a child! Yes, my mom had to exercise lots of patience, but I was cute as hell.’

‘I’m sure that’s how it was,’ you hummed.

‘I’m still in the top-3 cutest of our family list. Might even be cuter than Seoyul at times; she’s way too serious these days.’

‘Wow, going over your nephews’ heads after the title… How mature of you.’

‘Hey, don’t blame me for being extremely cute.’

‘Show me some aegyo then,’ you challenged him with a smile.

‘Huh, you wish. You’re not ready for my aegyo, Y/N-ie.’ He responded sassily.

‘Is that so?’ You smirked, holding his gaze up until the chime of your phone provided an interruption.

Your bestie found a great time to pry into your business, which was evident from the message previews on the screen.

Ki-yaah | You’re not texting me back…

Ki-yaah | Which either means that you chickened out…

Ki-yaah | …or his stamina is REALLY freaking impressive

Ki-yaah | Which one is it??? I hope it’s the latter!

You inhaled sharply and started coughing, barely managing to swipe those messages off the screen before Baekhyun could see them.

‘Are you okay?’ He patted you on the back to help you overcome your coughing fit.

‘Yeah, I’m fine. I didn’t realize it was so late… It was so rude of me to keep you up. Let me help you clean this up.’

‘Leave it,’ he shook his head, catching you by the wrist. ‘I’ll put this away later.’

‘I’ll… get going then,’ you stood so abruptly that your legs couldn’t keep up with you, completely numb from being in the same position for so long.

‘Y/N!’ Baekhyun rose to catch you by the arms. ‘Take a second, sit on the couch. Your legs must’ve fallen asleep.’

You swatted at your legs with your palms, urging the blood flow to restore quicker.

‘Sorry…’

‘Why are you sorry? I’m not in a hurry to get rid of you.’ He stated simply.

‘It’s just so late… and… you must have stuff to do.’

‘Nope. I actually had fun. I rarely get to sit around at home munching on ice cream and enjoying another grownup’s company.’

You bit your lip shyly at his words, and he suddenly tsked.

‘Although I feel like we were mostly talking about me. That’s a shame. I want to hear about you as well,’ Baekhyun mused, walking you to the door. ‘Well, let’s save it for next time.’

Next time, he said.

Next time??

You turned your back on him to conceal the shade of your cheeks and pretended to fidget with the doorknob.

‘Let me,’ he reached over you, pressing his warm chest to your back for a second to unlock the door.

But before you could step outside, his fingers wrapped around your forearm in a lax hold.

‘And Y/N… If you ever find yourself craving some lemon ice cream… I’m ready to provide it.’

With that, he pushed the door open and allowed you to leave his apartment.

Masterlist

A/N: Thank you for reading! Another BBH mini-series started 💫 I hope you enjoyed part 1~ Pls let me know what you think via comments, asks and reblogs, my darlings 💜 Also, I am very curious if you are picturing anyone in particular as Hoseok hehe 🙃

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lowskey · 2 years

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A LOOK INSIDE ｡ ° ྀ 𝐍𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐘 𝐓𝐇𝐈 𝐋𝐄'𝐒 ೃ PHONE ft. @2cute gage baek

#♡ ˙ 💌 ✧ — ‧ 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭 / edit.#♡ ˙ 💌 ✧ — ‧ 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘯𝘦𝘳 / nelly thi le — gage baek .#the bfg but its the big friendly neighbor :]#nelly probably made a joke abt it one time or mentioned how its one of her fav childrens book...#IF U DONT KNOW THAT BOOK OR THE STORY IDK WHAT TO SAY...!#ANYWAYYYYY TEA!!!!!!!!!!#SUPERLIKES? ALRIGHT...#she made him a playlist thats crazy... just friends tho... just friends...#that like each other... and superliked each other on tinder okkkkkkk.....#yes she will absolutely sing all kinds of disney songs all day long @__@#shes a walking disney karaoke machine

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jeonride · 10 months

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joshua reading list / fic recs !

don't forget to like + reblog the fics that you like to support the authors <3

navigation

FICS ! ✧*

Hoax (smut, angst, mafia!shua, strangers to lovers) by @lovelyhan

Isohel (modern royalty au, prince!shua, smut, angst) by @toruro

Eyes Meeting, Hearts Apart (mild angst, prince!shua, smut) by @lovelyhan

Mr. Nice Guy (smut, neighbor!shua) by @toruro

Under The Rose (fluff, smut, frenemies childhood to lovers, kinda historical au) by @just-come-baek

Honeyduke Lovers (hogwarts au, unrequited love, hufflepuff!shua x slytherin!reader. yep this is the story of how slytherin becomes undyingly soft for hufflepuff) by @http-mianhae

Steamy (smut, next door neighbor!shua) by @duhnova

written by @onlyhuis :

Cranberry Concoctions (smut, a little angst & fluff, 1920s, prohibition au)

Leaning on The Everlasting Arms (angst, smut, some fluff, bible college au)

Fine Line (fluff, smut, angst, figure skater!shua) by @heartkyeom

Prove it, You Won't (fluff, angst, humor, tattoo artist au) by @leejungchans

Oceans and Engines (fluff, exes to lovers, a lil' angst) by @renjunphile

Lover Boy (regency era romance, commoner!shua x aristocrat fem!reader, historical drama) by @starlightxsvt

Gentleman (angst, fluff, sugar daddy au) by @starlightxsvt

Wildest Dreams (bestfriends to lovers, fluff, humor) by @viastro

The Type (smut, fluff, college boyfriend!shua) by @bitchlessdino

Your Gentleman (smut, camboy!shua) by @wonwussy

Fighting for Your Love (smut, threesome ft. jeonghan) by @rubyreduji

Half Past Five High The Series (ft. mingyu, smut, angst, minor fluff, rich people au, love triangle, cheating. supermodel!gyu, photographer!shua x influencer fem!reader) by @multi-kpop-fanfics

Paint Me Numbers (fluff, shallow angst, guitarist/bandmate!shua) by @chocosvt

Domino (fluff, crack, smut) by @universecorp

Nasty (smut, fluff) by @soonigiri

Menace (smut) by @jeonghantis

You're All That Matters (fluff, bf!shua) by @heartsfromia

Be My Date (fluff, minor angst) by @heartsfromia

Mine (smut) by @luxekook

Meant for Each Other (fluff, soulmate au) by @slytherinshua

Golden Hour (best friends to lovers, fluff, slice of life, summer vacation au) by @dkfile

An Interview with An Angel (meet cute, fluff, reporter!shua) by @hannyoontify

Our Fairytale (smut, fluff) by @zuhacore

DRABBLES / SCENARIOS ! ✧*

at every table, i'll save you a seat (fluff) by @suhnshinehaos

bad habits (exes with benefits, smut, mild angst) by @lovelyhan

pretty when you cry (smut) by @cheolhub

quiet time (smut) by @number1mingyustan

acouasm (smut) by @angelwoozi

when you can't sleep but shua is right next to you (fluff, comfort) by @wonwoonlight

one-up (smut) by @sluttywonwoo

golden boy's mercy (smut) by @bitchlessdino

17. 12 (smut) by @lovelyhan

14. 13 (smut) by @toruro

after a long day (smut) by @sevngmin148

title (fluff, established relationship, ceo) by @leejungchans

relax (fluff, smut, established relationship) by @playmetheclassics

shower (fluff) @husbandhannie

stay up (fluff) by @bitterie-sweetie

about you : valentine's special (fluff, angst, friends to lovers) by @shuawonie

fruit (smut) by @onlyseokmins

i love you, always (fluff, comfort) by @monnn

10.32 (fluff, bf!shua) by @elysianeclipxe

clingy (fluff) and smitten (fluff) by @slytherinshua

we won't change because we're engraved in each other's heart (fluff) by @wooahaes

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novalpha · 10 months

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𝘑𝘰𝘴𝘩𝘶𝘢 𝐹𝑖𝑐 𝑅𝑒𝑐𝑠

♡ Fluff || ୨୧ Angst || ★ Smut || ꗃ SMAU || ⌗ Series || ✿ Drabble || ♤ Mature (No smut) || ✹ Humor

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Virgin killer ♡★ -> @wonusite Part 2

Synopsis: You can’t stand the clear line the cute nerd in your calculus class always draws between you two. However, you’re determined to show him that there’s a fine line between love and hate. And if you happen to get him to cross that line, even better.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Anonymously Yours ♡୨୧✹ -> @joonsytip

Synopsis: After an accidental text message turns into a digital friendship, you and Joshua start crushing on each other without realizing you both see each other frequently in real life. Notable Mention: You both hate each other's guts....

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Pretty when you cry ★ -> @cheolhub

summary. joshua just loves how pretty you look when you’re in tears.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Say it back ♡ -> @diamondyjh

Synopsis: A tipsy Joshua is a clingy Joshua.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Vanilla ★♡ -> @milfgyuu

Summary: Joshua has a secret but perhaps it’s not really a secret at all. Maybe you’ve just refused to see it in an effort to keep your feelings at bay.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Wildest dreams ♡✹ -> @viastro

synopsis: it’s your last year of school forever, and you’re about to meet the most horrifying chapter of life: the real world. now worrying about your life’s lack of spontaneity, you decide to get married to your best friend in vegas for 24 hours.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Beautiful day Sunday morning ★♡ -> @sluttywoozi

Summary: Joshua’s tried everything, but he just can’t stop being in love with his best friend

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Steamy ★ -> @duhnova

next door neighbor!joshua - unfortunately in the middle of your shower your hot water breaks so you have to go next door and ask your unnaturally hot neighbor if you can use his

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Domino ♡✹★ -> @universecorp

Summary: After a one night stand on your birthday, you never expected to meet the stranger again. You also never expected him to enter your life permanently.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Under the rose ♡★ -> @just-come-baek

Summary: You’ve known Joshua your entire life, and it has always irked you when he got praised for the same things you were scolded for. You hate these societal double standards thrown upon you almost as much as people who judge you for it. Thankfully, you have Joshua, who just gets you.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Late to the party ★ -> @sluttywoozi Part 2 , Sundress Szn

Summary: You try to convince Joshua to go to Cheol's birthday party. Joshua tries to convince you to have a party for two | husband!joshua, husband joshua is horny and in love with you

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Your gentleman ★ -> @wonwussy

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Leaning on the everlasting arms ♡୨୧★ -> @onlyhuis

synopsis | as kids growing up in the same church, you and joshua were inseperable, until you got to an age where it was considered immoral for girls and boys to be friends. when you find him again just before graduation, he's different than you remember; but so are you.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Best friend's brother ♡୨୧★ -> @chocosvt

synopsis: joshua happens to be your best friend's older brother. he's pretty, and he's got a lot of cool details about him that you pay a concerning amount of attention to, but he’s just a friend (if you could even call it that). still, what does he think of you, anyway? that is—if he thinks of you.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ To you ♡୨୧★ -> @onlymingyus

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Fine line ♡୨୧★ -> @heartkyeom

synopsis: as a joshua fangirl, getting the chance to interview him as a teenager was an absolute dream. 10 years later with a flourishing career as a writer and a strained relationship with him, he wants to do a 10 year reunion interview about his path to the upcoming Olympics. there’s only one problem: you’re staying at his house and trying not to address your old feelings for him.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Untitled ♡୨୧ -> @gyu-effect

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Paint by numbers ♡୨୧ -> @chocosvt

synopsis: somebody new just moved into the upstairs apartment. they’re loud, irritatingly sweet, and unfortunately, very pretty. but you’re not looking for a new relationship, even if it comes in the form of joshua hong.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Golden Hour ♡ -> @dkfile

summer ends in less than a month, leaving you with a limited amount of time to build up the courage to profess your undying love for your best friend before he leaves again for college. alternatively the summer of pining, featuring a group of annoyed bystanders.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Cranberry concoctions ♡୨୧★ -> @onlyhuis

synopsis | you came to the infamous diamond glass looking for a good cocktail. instead, you found love in a hot bartender who also makes the best cosmos you’ve ever had.

[ More joshua recs will be updated ]

Want more Seventeen fic recs? -> Click here

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silantryoo · 8 months

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BONUS [ LIKEALOOK ] — minjeong-unnie

seoul cafe, 12:13 pm.

WARNINGS ; alcoholic tendencies, mentions of cheating (4.4k)

jang wonyoung met aeri uchinaga when she was thirteen years old.

the japanese girl had transferred schools near wonyoung's main residence in gangnam a week before high school started. wonyoung had known the girl before she had seen her face, hearing the hushed whispers that spread about her next-door neighbors.

she knew of aeri's father and the alcoholic tendencies that lingered whenever his child wasn't around, bumbling around local bars like a crying for help until his next project had made him forget about his wife and her affairs.

she had seen him briefly on the first day of school, waving at a black cadillac escalade, waiting for it to disappear before bursting into tears.

wonyoung wondered whether her mom had felt the same way when she had found out, but the athlete doubted it.

the older woman was heartless.

the young uchinaga was accompanied by her mother that day, and wonyoung couldn't help but realize the striking resemblance between the two when she first met aeri.

the young uchinaga had gotten her scowl from her mother, and it was almost etched permanently on aeri's face until she had met yoo jimin and baek alexandra. their eyes, though soft and bright, held a malice to the world that no one could seem to break. aeri had also inherited her mother's cadence, their voices nearly indistinguishable if not for her slightly happier tone.

but although aeri had gotten her physical appearance from her mother, she had gotten her personality from her dad. unlike her mother's rough interior, the seventeen-year-old was soft-spoken in an almost vulnerable way. it was almost like the young heiress was desperate to be seen for once, just like every other person in wonyoung's school.

aeri was surprisingly shy when the two met, and held a gentle but comforting smile the entire time (which was nothing like the rumors that had already managed to spread through the school during the first week).

wonyoung could see through her, just like she could see through all her classmates.

behind all the money, the cars, and the luxury bags was a child who didn't understand what was going on. she didn't understand the stares that followed her down the hall, or the whispers that seemed to hang in the air once she entered a room.

her eyes told the entire story that she refused to show.

aeri uchinaga was just as scared as jang wonyoung was.

minjeong didn't understand why y/n was so nervous.

the younger girl tried to not make it obvious, and any other person would've missed the fact that the young actress was wiping her sweaty hands on her cashmere sweater, but kim minjeong wasn't any person.

kim minjeong was y/n's.

"unnie," y/n looked over to the girl beside her, waiting for the elevator to ding open. "you don't have to go if you don't want to."

she watched the numbers go up, listening to the younger girl's soft voice. the bright numbers halted at floor three (minjeong's favorite number).

"i want to." minjeong hummed, a constant buzzing invading her stomach.

y/n could only swallow down her nerves.

"are you sure?"

she didn't understand why wonyoung had explicitly asked for minjeong and at the time, y/n had been too excited to think about the outcome that was most likely going to happen. all she could think about was seeing wonyoung and her perfect smile.

y/n could feel a fluttering feeling in her chest, and she didn't know whether it was anticipation or excitement.

"y/n." minjeong hummed, the elevator sliding open. "we're already here. there's no turning back now."

"okay." y/n trusted minjeong, almost more than anyone in the world. "thank you again."

the two stepped out as the older girl gave y/n a warm, loving smile.

"no problem." minjeong elbowed her slightly, the cold air of the a/c dusting a blush on her cheeks. "you know i'd do anything for you."

y/n couldn't help but smile back. minjeong was one of the very few people who could ease her mind. she was the older sister that y/n had always wished for.

y/n walked passed the sign that hung 'seoul cafe', bowing politely at the workers and staff as she made her way to the balcony. she had never been to this part of gangman before, but she could tell from the smell of freshly ground beans (and the fact that choi sooyoung was sitting in the corner) that it was an intimate place, one that very few, very influential people frequented.

(minjeong was too busy ogling the prices as they passed the counter. 7000 won for an iced americano was absurd.)

the younger girl slid the door open, watching as wonyoung's head whipped around faster than she had ever seen before. behind her, minjeong stuttered back, her eyes trained on the two girls in front of her.

minjeong wanted to yell, or cry. she wanted to berate y/n for even being around wonyoung, to tell her that the volleyball player probably screwed her up in the head that she'd still be willing to interact with her, but her vocal cords seemed to stop working the moment she saw a pair cat-like eyes boring into hers.

"y/n!" y/n couldn't help but smile as the taller girl stood up. "hi."

minjeong glared at the girl before her eyes snapped back to the uchinaga.

"hey wonyoung." y/n could feel herself blush. she turned to the older girl, bowing down slightly. "aeri-sunbaenim."

y/n grabbed minjeong's arm, dragging her gently to the two unoccupied seats at the rounded glass table.

"aeri-unnie is fine." aeri smiled before pursing her lips. "hey minjeong."

y/n glanced at minjeong, before meeting wonyoung's bright eyes.

"aeri-unnie." minjeong could feel her heart bursting. she needed to get out of her. fast. "what are you doing here?"

aeri's irises sparkled against the harsh seoul daylight, her eyes lazily scanning y/n before looking back at the girl seated beside her.

"we're going to get lunch." aeri smiled, minjeong's stomach suddenly churning in anxiety.

minjeong could care less about her financial situation. all she knew was that aeri was up to something, and with a single sentence, minjeong would be reduced to nothing.

she can't do that, not after everything minjeong had sacrificed.

y/n looked over to the old girl, taking no notice of wonyoung's unabashed staring. minjeong was in clear distress, and y/n knew that out of all of them, she was the only one on a scholarship, making use of her financial aid as much as she could.

"i'll pay for you, unnie."

minjeong could feel her ears turn red, aeri humming as wonyoung slid over a menu.

"like hell." minjeong was going to treat y/n the way she deserved, nothing like wonyoung or jimin. "let me pay for you. i'm the older one."

"unnie, you were literally complaining to minju-unnie about how you spent too much money last time." y/n rolled her eyes, remembering the comments that minjeong slipped in between bites of her food days ago. "let me pay."

wonyoung looked between the two, frowning at the ugly feeling she got in her chest whenever minjeong was near the younger girl.

"that's because it was me." minjeong reasoned. "you're different."

minjeong always had a habit of spoiling her, even when it wasn't warranted. she wouldn't have minded if it was every so often, but it seemed like every outing the two had, minjeong would always find a way to pay.

y/n hated feeling indebted to her best friend.

"are you two close?" aeri asked, taking a sip of her water.

wonyoung looked between them, biting her tongue.

"me and minjeong-unnie?" y/n looked at the girl beside her, the older girl picking on the power button of her phone. "yeah, she's my closest friend."

aeri hummed, her eyes settling on minjeong.

"i see."

y/n nodded, taking a glimpse at wonyoung who sat quietly beside her. she couldn't help but smile, finding the taller girl so pretty under the beaming sunlight.

she knew that wonyoung always thought she was prettiest on the court - displaying her talent for everyone to see - or on the walkway, and she was pretty. but to the older girl, wonyoung was the most beautiful when she was illuminated in the sun, barefaced like the early mornings they spent together.

wonyoung ripped her gaze away from the laminated sheet, glancing at the girl beside her. she smiled lightly, and y/n could feel her cheeks heat up.

y/n had always been enticed by wonyoung's eyes. the taller girl thought nothing special of them. they were a boring shade of brown, just like everyone else's. she didn't have any striking features like her former captain's sharp, feline-like eyes, nor a striking color that made her stand out.

but y/n loved them, because everything was pretty about wonyoung. she loved every part of the athlete, every scratch, every burn, every sprain, and every tear.

y/n loved - loves - jang wonyoung.

y/n tore her eyes away, suddenly finding the table in front of her interesting.

oh god. she still loves jang wonyoung, she's never stopped.

minjeong looked at the menu in front of her, wiping her palms on her jeans. she looked back at aeri, the older girl looking between her and y/n.

"y/n, order." she slid the menu towards her. the sooner they ate, the sooner they would leave. "don't worry about the price."

aeri leaned back, watching the interaction intensely.

"how long have you two been friends?"

minjeong pursed her lips. aeri was as relentless as the first day she met her.

"since the end of senior year." y/n answered briefly, her head automatically turning to the girl on her left.

wonyoung was just so pretty.

"hey, wonnie?"

wonyoung looked at her, eyes wide and glinting in the light. y/n could feel her heart stop, and there was no more denying that it was always jang wonyoung.

y/n was always wonyoung's.

"yeah?"

y/n smiled and wonyoung swore she just saw an angel. "what are you getting?"

wonyoung hummed, looking at the menu before she pouted. y/n bit the side of her cheek, trying her hardest not to smile.

"i want the crepe but it's too big."

"we can split." her voice was soft, despite the pounding in her heart. "i can pa-."

"it's okay!" wonyoung rushed out, her ears bright red. she wanted to get down on her knees and thank god at that very moment. "i'll pay."

"what?" y/n shook her head. "no, you already paid for my groceries last time."

wonyoung stared at her blankly.

"but i wanna pay."

y/n stared back, not noticing aeri's knowing smile directed at the two.

"but i wanna pay."

"we can just get the crepe, y/n." minjeong butted in, trying not to get irritated at the display in front of her. "since i'm paying already."

wonyoung blinked, glaring out into the streets of gangnam. she knew if she glanced even once at minjeong, she would burn a hole into her head.

"oh." y/n nodded. "that works too."

aeri looked at minjeong, the older girl's eyes scanning her annoyed face. she wasn't good at reading people, but it didn't take a phd to know that minjeong was a bit too overprotective.

she bit back a sigh. jimin always got herself into complicated situations.

"wonyoung wants the crepe." aeri watched as minjeong's face fell. "i'm sure you two can split."

wonyoung nodded, beaming happily as she turned to y/n.

"i want to pay."

y/n wanted to say no. she wanted to tell wonyoung that she didn't need to spend money on her, and although she never felt like she owed the athlete anything, she wanted to give wonyoung everything that she was capable of offering.

wonyoung looked at her, brown, glistening eyes full of anticipation.

"okay." god, why did wonyoung have to be so cute? "you win."

wonyoung bit the tip of her tongue, smiling down at the menu that reflected the harsh light from above. she could feel her heart against her chest, beating loudly as she tried not to squeal.

no matter how long it had been - how undeserving she was of her - wonyoung would always feel the same for y/n.

wonyoung stood up, scurrying to the counter as she tried to recount all the food that the others had wanted (blueberry crepe for her and y/n, green tea tiramisu and ratatouille for aeri, and carbonara for minjeong). the faster she ordered, the faster she could go back to her table and sit next to y/n.

the volleyball player sat down, ears red as y/n smiled at her.

the four stayed quiet for a minute or two, each of them admiring the view from below.

aeri watched as people interacted while she listened to the dull hum of the busy streets. it was relaxing, breaking away from the chaos of their daily lives for a moment of peace.

but aeri was here on a mission, and she knew better than to let happiness consume her.

"minjeong." aeri called out to the unsuspecting girl, ignoring the barista that seemingly popped out of nowhere. "i haven't seen you around in a while. did something happen?"

y/n watched her best friend's eyes widen, gripping her phone like her life depended on it.

"what?" minjeong bowed slightly to the girl in the apron as she set down her food, eyes familiar, but not enough for her to strike up a conversation. "no, nothing happened. i'm just... busy."

aeri looked her up and down.

"okay."

she was an uchinaga. perhaps she was much like her dad, too trusting and gullible with the people she loved, but she was her mother's daughter, and she could spot guilt from a mile away.

minjeong watched as aeri turned her focus to her food, her stomach suddenly feeling queasy.

aeri turned to the girl across from her.

"y/n, right?"

she wasn't dumb. she knew who l/n y/n was. if she were to ask anyone on campus about the younger girl, they would've all said the same answer.

but initial appearances were never the truth. aeri knew that well.

"yeah?"

"you're really pretty." aeri hummed, watching as y/n's cheeks grew a shade darker. wonyoung pursed her lips, looking blankly at her senior. "how come i've never seen you around before?"

"oh, um..."

y/n looked at wonyoung, and a pit settled in her stomach. she knew that face, lips taut, eyes glossed over. it was a gaze that wonyoung held that was once for her.

it was jealousy.

"she's busy too." minjeong answered for the younger girl.

she watched as wonyoung's eyes softened, guilt and shame running through them. wonyoung always used to blame herself for getting jealous.

it was no different this time.

"hmm..." aeri tapped her cheek, not exactly satisfied with that answer. "okay."

maybe it was too late.

she couldn't blame either of them. wonyoung was perfect, and y/n had searched far and wide for someone who could be her jang wonyoung, but no one could compare. as for aeri, she was an uchinaga. she was beautiful, rich, and everything that everyone wanted to be.

y/n just wished she could be wonyoung's y/n again.

"unnie." y/n whispered upon hearing soft tapping next to her. "your food's gonna get cold."

"yeah," minjeong looked up, smiling despite her furrowed eyebrows. "just give me a second."

y/n looked over, trying to see what was more important than food to minjeong, but the older girl turned her phone off, placing it under her thigh before looking back up.

"who were you texting?" y/n wondered if it was minjeong's roommate who had been trying to hook up with her the past week. "is it your girlfriend?"

minjeong rolled her eyes, ignoring the obvious teasing from the younger girl.

"did yuri tell you that?"

aeri looked at y/n curiously. she glanced at minjeong, her eyes shining with happiness as the younger girl continued to ask her about her roommate, grinning as she winked at the older girl.

aeri had to admit. jimin always had a thing for pretty girls.

but then again, jimin also had a thing for complicated girls.

"are you single, y/n?" aeri took a sip of her water, watching as wonyoung's head whipped to face the girl on her right.

minjeong rolled her eyes. "not yet."

"unnie." y/n smacked the older girl's shoulder. she was probably right, but she had just met aeri less than an hour ago and there was no need to air everything out about aeri's roommate.

minjeong shrugged, taking a bite out of her food as aeri eyed y/n across from her.

the uchinaga looked at minjeong.

"what about you?" aeri wasn't stupid. "you don't like anyone, minjeong?"

minjeong stared at her blankly, all emotion void from her figure, except for her eyes. aeri wondered what the younger girl was thinking, but as her phone rang, she didn't have the heart to care.

"sorry, i have to take this." she looked at y/n for a moment before standing from her chair. "it's jimin."

she watched as y/n tensed up, and that was everything aeri needed to know about the situation.

wonyoung watched as her childhood friend walked away, leaving her plate as another barista came in and placed the blueberry crepe in front of her.

y/n bowed, thanking the familiar-looking girl as she walked away.

"it looks good!" y/n smiled, looking up at wonyoung to find her twidling her thumbs. "what's wrong?"

minjeong could only scoff under her breath.

of course.

"nothing." wonyoung shook her head, looking up to find worried eyes gazing back at hers. she loved y/n so much that it hurt. "you and jimin-sunbaenim are still together?"

y/n hadn't thought about jimin in a while. she had purposely missed her last game, and was planning to do so at the semi-qualifiers that were quickly approaching. she didn't have the heart or the patience to deal with her girlfriend anymore (and deep down, she wonders how she ever had in the first place).

jimin was a good person when they met.

"honestly," she missed the jimin she looked up to. y/n doesn't know what changed. "i don't know."

minjeong couldn't hold it in anymore.

she was tired of playing around with y/n. it was sickening to her how she always ran back to the people who never treated her right, and how she always made excuses for jimin - for wonyoung. it wasn't fair.

"are you fucking serious right now?" minjeong hissed, seething at the younger girl. "you told me you weren't still hung up on her."

wonyoung furrowed her eyebrows.

"unnie, please." y/n hadn't seen this minjeong in person since the day she started dating jimin. "we're in public."

"i don't give a shit." minjeong whisper shouted, and suddenly the sun had become too harsh for y/n's liking. "if i knew wonyoung was here, i would've never come."

"you didn't tell her i was here?"

wonyoung should've known better. maybe jimin's words held some truth to them that she had kept denying. maybe she should've stopped denying them.

she wanted to cry.

"i tried to." y/n muttered, her cheeks suddenly red. "but you told me i should bring her, and i wanted to see you today."

wonyoung blinked, her face lighting up in a bright red hue.

maybe yoo jimin was wrong.

"you wanted to see me?"

she loved how wonyoung looked so pretty under the sunlight, the cool air sweeping through her brown locks. she loved her small smile whenever she saw something that reminded her of hyunseo, and she loved her faint giggle whenever she mispronounced a word.

y/n just loved wonyoung, even if wonyoung didn't love her anymore.

"oh my-" minjeong shook her head. "i cannot believe you right now."

wonyoung watched as y/n flinched back, shame coating her features in a way that she had only seen when she was around jimin.

"unnie..."

minjeong gripped her fork, glaring at the younger girl. "you're a fucking liar."

y/n looked down, biting back tears. although it was rare, she hated when minjeong was like this. the young actress cared about what the older girl thought of her, and it tore her to shreds to see minjeong so angry at her.

"don't talk to her like that." wonyoung raised her voice, glaring straight into minjeong's eyes. "it's your fault for not knowing."

she just wanted minjeong to like who she liked for once. she wanted the approval of an older sister, for someone to cheer her on, and for someone to talk to.

"it's your fault for being here." minjeong spat out, gritting her teeth as her anger turned venomous. "you should've stayed away from her like you initially planned to."

wonyoung inhaled, not wanting to be reminded of everything she did wrong with the older girl. she knew she messed up, she knew she wasn't good enough, but she didn't need kim minjeong to remind her.

"unnie."

but she desperately wanted to be good enough to love the girl beside her, even if that meant putting up a facade that she was.

"people change." wonyoung stated half-heartedly.

"people like you don't change." minjeong laughed. wonyoung? change? "they pretend they do and then hurt people like y/n."

wonyoung gripped the hem of her skirt. she didn't mean to hurt anyone but herself. she only wanted to love y/n, but somehow, everything blew up in her face.

wonyoung just wanted to love y/n properly, the way a person should love another.

wonyoung clenched her eyes shut. "i don't want to hurt her."

minjeong couldn't believe what she was hearing.

"now you don't?"

"unnie!" y/n shouted, and it was like the city of seoul had halted at the boom of her voice. "stop it. please."

y/n was tired of everything happening over and over again. she was tired of hurting, of being happy only for it to be shot down.

everything was too familiar, and she just wanted it to change, just this once.

y/n looked at the forgotten crepe in front of her, sniffling as she wiped her free-falling tears away.

"y/nnie?" wonyoung's voice was the only thing she wanted to hear.

"i'm sorry, wonnie." wonyoung's heart clenched. she had never heard y/n like this, so tired and so done. "we should go, unnie."

"y/n-"

"let's go."

minjeong looked at her silently, nodding.

"i want-" wonyoung wanted her to stay, even if that meant that the athlete would stay quiet for the rest of the afternoon. "aeri-unnie's gonna be upset."

"please tell her i'm sorry." y/n muttered. if she could, she would just send minjeong on her way, but she didn't have the strength to argue anymore. "me and minjeong-unnie should really go."

wonyoung stared at her, watching as tears fell down her face.

she never liked kim minjeong. the girl was always too overbearing, suffocating y/n through every step of the way, but wonyoung knew how much minjeong meant to her.

she knew how it was like to idolize someone, to want their approval.

"i'm so sorry."

wonyoung nodded, handing her a tissue.

"it's okay."

"let me pay for you." y/n pleaded, eyes teary as she looked at the girl she loved. "please?"

"y/n," minjeong could feel a blood vessel burst. "be fucking serious right no-"

"minjeong!" y/n had never gotten mad at kim minjeong, not in their two-and-a-half years of friendship. "shut up."

minjeong stared at her, emotions threatening to bubble out of her throat. she didn't know whether she was about to cry from anger or from pain, but all she knew was that what she was feeling was wonyoung's fault.

the taller girl looked between the both of them wide-eyed, clearing her throat to alleviate some of the tension in the air.

"next one's on me then?" wonyoung smiled.

y/n loved wonyoung.

"you're so cute," she muttered under her breath as she stood up, only loud enough for the volleyball player to hear.

wonyoung could feel her entire body light aflame, and suddenly it felt like her head was in the clouds.

"what?"

"huh?" y/n blinked at her, watching as minjeong gathered her things quietly. she watched as the older girl glanced at her, walking towards the elevator with tear-stained cheeks.

y/n sighed. maybe she was too harsh.

she turned back to wonyoung, a regretful smile on her face. "i'll see you around?"

"yeah, um." wonyoung couldn't form words, unable to think in any coherent language. "okay."

y/n smiled, teeth showing as her eyes narrowed.

"bye wonnie."

jang wonyoung loved l/n y/n with every fiber in her body, worthless or not.

"bye bye."

y/n walked away, biting her lip as she tried not to sob in disappointment. she went to the counter, tearfully paying for all their food before meeting minjeong in front of the elevator.

the two entered, feeling the shift of the pulley system under their feet. y/n listened to the hum of the machine, ignoring the tears and hiccups that escaped the girl beside her as they watched the numbers go down.

y/n was tired.

"where'd they go?" aeri returned, confused as to why half the table had gone missing in the last twenty minutes.

wonyoung shrugged, wailing in a small voice. "raincheck."

the older girl leaned down, inspecting her tear-stained face.

"did you cry?" aeri furrowed her eyebrows. what was it with jimin and complicated girls? "what did they do?"

wonyoung didn't mean to cry. she wasn't the one who had gotten affected by the whole debacle, but she couldn't help but wonder if none of this would've happened if she was perfect enough.

"happy tears, unnie."

(actually, she mostly cried because y/n had called her cute, and smiled at her so many times that wonyoung almost forgot how to speak korean.)

aeri raised an eyebrow. "they look like sad tears from here."

"maybe they're both."

the younger girl looked at the crepe in front of her, taking another teary bite before burying her face in her hands.

y/n called her cute.

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taglist (CLOSED)!!

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defrosted69 · 1 year

Text

Shot through the heart

"Hey Dweeb, buy me some bread."

"B-But I'm doing my homework"

"Ah? Do look like I give a single fuck about what your doing? Buy me some bread."

"I-I have no money.."

"Like I care? Stop complaining and buy me some bread already dipshit!"

A girl pushed your chair as you fell flat on the floor groaning from the sudden force that was applied on it. Your glasses fell to the floor as your eyesight has turned blurry and it was hard for you to navigate the surroundings.

"Oh poor Y/n's gonna walk in all 4s? Aweee bark for me~"

Their laugher almost made you wanna hate your life as whole as their torment at you every time you go to school is hellish. It's something that you wish but to end and perhaps it will end if you end your life yourself. But there was one glimpse of hope for you. That one factor left that would keep you from ending it all.

"Hey! Stop what your doing to him Hanni. It's not funny."

The voice of an Angel. Baek Jiheon. She was your senior and the president of the Club you were in. Jiheon was also kind of fond towards you especially with how enthusiasm you were everytime there's an meeting or an activity at the club.

"Awe come on Jiheon Unnie. I was just messing with him."

"Yeah right. Listen to me Pham Hanni. If I ever see you bully Y/N again, I'll make sure to give your sister a visit."

Jiheon's stern voice made Hanni clenched her fist and glare at her. You didn't really know what the two have going on but having to spent your time with your bully and savior, you could tell that the two used to have a past together. Hanni scoffed and left the classroom along with her friends as Jiheon handed you your glasses. Upon seeing her, your heart raced quicker than normal.

"Are you okay Y/n?"

Her angelic voice that send tingles down your spine temporarily froze you in place. Time slowed down as you observed everything about her. The sun was shining behind her and the birds seemingly singing her a song. Everything was so bright around her and you would have hoped nothing but to be with her.

"Y/N? Are you okay?"

"H-Huh? Oh yeah! I-I'm fine."

You stuttered as Jiheon lended you a hand helping you stand up.

"By the way, You don't have anything to do after class right?"

"Yeah."

"Good, cause we kinda have an important meeting later on."

Jiheon's bright smile was the only thing that your mind was processing as you were just nodding at her. She chuckled and gave you a sandwich which surprised you.

"Here's a snack for you Y/N. See you later~"

Jiheon waved at you and left the classroom leaving you a confused blushing mess. Jiheon's kindness is also what makes you fall for her more as this only added to her charms. But as much as you what to admire her, you have a lot of opponents to win her heart.

Everyone admires Jiheon because of her beauty, brains and kindness. In the perspective of everyone, Jiheon was the perfect Girlfriend. Many had tried to sway her heart but a lot has failed and that both gives you relief and anxiety. You felt relief because Jiheon wasn't taken just yet and you have a slight chance. But sadly, you felt anxious because you were afraid that the bond you two build will be destroyed if you confess to her.

But if you were to choose one threat then it would be the School's Prince, Kim Sunoo. Everything about him was perfect. He was gifted academically, athletic, Visuals, everything you asked for was given to him. But the thing that bugs you out is knowing that Jiheon and Sunoo are childhood friends and neighbors as well. Your at a disadvantage as everything about him was perfect yet you were imperfect in every way.

You could only sigh as the day was boring for you but as the final bell was rung, you packed your bag but Minji, Hanni's friend stood infront of your table stopping you as you gulped in fear.

"Hey, Gimme 5,000 won."

Her demanding voice scares you as your eyes began to shift everywhere but hers.

"I-I don't have that money on me..."

"So? Pull out your card or something. I need that money now."

"I.. I can't I don't have-"

The door opened and Hanni was back from her daily task of throwing the trash because of her tardiness in class. She hated it the most because the punishment didn't make sense but she knows that it's her fault too. Everyone in class knows that Hanni wasn't the girl to be messed with especially when after she threw the trash but Minji, used this to her advantage.

"Hanni, the dweeb isn't listening again."

You gulped in fear as cold sweat began to form on your forehead and hands. You didn't want to get beaten up by Hanni again especially now that you are needed by Jiheon in the club. But as much as you want to move, your body stood there frozen. You heard her footstep closing on you as Hanni sighed and boredly looked at you.

"You don't have Money on you Dweeb?"

"N-No I don't have that money on me"

"Tsk! Fine, here Minji. Just pay me back next time."

You widen your eyes as Minji was also caught of guard by what Hanni just did. Usually, Hanni would beat you up and threaten you just to force you to give them money but today, Hanni acted differently. Minji took the money nonetheless.

"Woah, Alright then. Wanna join me Hanni? I'll be hanging out with that 3rd year hottie."

"Nah I'll pass. I gotta visit my Sister today."

"Eh suit yourself."

Minji shrugged her shoulders and left the room. You on the hand, was still in deep thoughts on why would Hanni help you out. You were confused as Hanni grabbed her bag and fixed her things. She was about to leave the room when you finally spoke.

"T-Thank you!"

You must have been dreaming because there was no way that you will be thanking your bully. Hanni just stared at you and sighed leaving the class with no more words for you. It was truly a confusing moment but you just shrugged it off and went to the club room. Your silent sanctuary. You opened the door and saw Jiheon smiling ear to ear towards you along with the rest of the members.

"Y/N, good thing your here. Were about to start anyway."

You smiled brightly but that died down when your eyes saw Sunoo next to Jiheon. He was all smiles but seeing him close to Jiheon and seeing her laugh with her made you sad. You tried to ignore it but the moment Jiheon said

"Sunoo will be part of our club for the moment as our club will be joining the film club for the upcoming festival."

Obviously everyone was all on it because the school's prince was in their club. You didn't want to be selfish but you have no choice but to accept it.

"But the important thing is, Our club will be doing a theater show and this is where Sunoo's club will help us. Now, I have come up that we will be doing a play called sleeping beauty. Now who will be a leads? Any suggestion?"

This is what made you fear the most because it was preety obvious that Jiheon and Sunoo will be the main leads and what's your position there? Nobody, a nobody. You have no rights to disagree as everyone in the club voted for the two of them. It was painful to see the girl that you like be with someone better than you and you couldn't do anything. You stayed silent hoping that this meeting ended sooner than later.

The following days was pure torture for you as seeing them being all flirty with each other breaks your heart. You tried to keep everything in as much as possible as you keep reminding yourself that you have no rights to interfere.

Sunoo was better in every way towards you and you were no match for him. He was gifted while you have to thrive to sharpen your skills just to be recognized by them and if you did showcase them, nobody would even dare to listen to you.

As the days go by, it was pure torture for you but you kept a straight face focusing on making the play successful as it is. But if there was something that you were glad for is that Pham Hanni, your bully seems to have stopped bothering you at all after that time when you thanked her. It also wasn't just Hanni that didn't bother you anymore but even her friends stopped being an annoying bitch towards you.

Though you find it weird, you were glad that Hanni stop bullying you but that torture was replaced with emotional torture as you see Jiheon smiling and laughing with Sunoo. They say that accepting things as they are now is one way of letting yourself free from the pain you are suffering.

But to you that was a difficult task.

Jiheon became a part of your life and for you to let go of the sole reason why you come to school,

To why you still wanna hang in the club room,

To why you had hoped on seeing her smile,

To why you wanna keep moving forward.

It was very difficult for you to let go because if you did, what will you cling into? What hope or motivation will you have to keep moving forward in life? What's left for you to do?

Your mind was filled with more questions than answers as you mindlessly wander the busy halls of the corridors.

The day you dreaded finally arrived. You woke up in a very tired expression even though you had 8 hours of sleep in your body. Your mind was just so exhausted with all the negative thoughts that has filled your mind for the past weeks. You tried your best to accept that you have already lost Jiheon to Mr. Perfect. Everyday, you reminded yourself that you were a loser and a coward for accepting that this was is. You couldn't do anything because you were afraid of change.

Then it hit you. The biggest reason why you cowered out.

You were scared.

Not for yourself

But because

You were scared

Of the change that could happen.

You couldn't bring yourself to change the relationship between you and Jiheon because you were afraid of her Changing her behavior with you. Jiheon was your only friend and a very precious friend to you. Part of loving her is letting her go and seeing her happy.

Her happiness was yours as well.

You tried to place that seed on your mind everyday and today was the day you know that Jiheon will finally be the reason of someone's happiness.

You fixed your attire and left the house where you only live in. Gone were the days where you would greet your parents because there was no reason to greet them anymore. They have left this world and left you behind all on your own.

Upon leaving the house, you notice how dark the clouds were indicating that there's a strong chance that it will rain. You on the other hand could only chuckle softly.

"I guess the universe hates me huh?"

You walked your way towards the school and even though the weather wasn't that great, everything went smoothly for the festival. The festive mood was still felt around the classroom as plenty of classroom has their booth open for all to experience. Seeing the smiles of students made you feel like you lost yours. Even though the school was in such festive mood, everything felt so bland and plain.

You ignored all of this as you continued your trail towards the club room where you were tasked on checking up on the attire of the actors that will use. As you open the door you saw Jiheon in a very beautiful mint green dress. You were star struck as no words was able to describe her beauty. Everything seems to have sparkled seeing her beauty as her eyes landed on you.

"Oh, Y/N how do I look?"

"Beautiful."

It was the only word that you can describe to her but your mouth couldn't say it. You just simply nodded your head as she giggled. The more she showed you her soft side, the more you heart breaks.

"Oh my. You look so preety Jiheon."

Sunoo snapped you back to reality as he himself wore a prince outfit. It was befitting for him considering his title in school and you can tell why many girls would fall for him. He was sparkling just like Jiheon as the two smiled at each other. You sighed and went pass over them trying your best to dissappear on their sights as you wanted to focus on your task.

As the play finally started, many students were all anticipating on seeing how the preetiest girl in school will act towards the prince of the school. It was pretty obvious that everyone wanted to See Sunoo and Jiheon as most of the crowd just doesn't react to other actors at all. But when the pair came out, Cheers and whistles was all that was heard.

Never have you seen Jiheon smile so brightly and shine so perfectly with someone that wasn't you. As much as you admire their amazing chemistry together, the painful scene that was about to unfold infront of your eyes will surely make you realize that you have no space in between the two perfect couple.

The kiss scene where everyone had hope to see, was finally gonna happen. Your heart was starting to crack everytime Sunoo says his lines as he was inching himself closer to Jiheon. As the crowd was at the edge of their seat, you couldn't handle the passionate Kiss the two shared as you damn well that there wasn't suppose to be a kiss scene. It was suppose to be a peck on her cheeks but Sunoo showed everyone his intentions towards the girl. The crowd cheered for them leaving you in pain as you officially lost the girl you admire.

You couldn't handle it anymore as you left the play and walked towards the busy corridors of school not really knowing where to go now.

"Hey Minji."

"Sup Hanni."

"Have you seen the dweeb-I mean Y/N?"

"Nope. Haven't seen the loser since morning. Why Look for that loser anyway?"

Hanni could only just sigh as she has noticed how you actually looked more miserable even when she stopped messing with you. She thought that stopping herself from bullying you would be enough closure for all the wrong deeds she did. But the thing that really caught her off guard was when you actually thanked her for saving him.

It wasn't even in her best intention to save you but it's just that she wanted Minji to shut up. She couldn't react properly after you thanked her as she left the classroom flustered and embarrassed. This was her first time seeing someone thank her for the good thing she did and it felt so weird but in a good way. She felt like her body elevated and something heavy was released from her.

To this day, she still can't understand why she, the biggest bully in her class helped a loser like you. But nonetheless, she stopped bullying you and overall stopped being a menace. Hanni was actually scolded preety hard as the reality of things came crashing down on her. She has never seen her Sister this dissapointed in her and it broke her heart hearing and seeing her sister break down all alone in their kitchen. She realized that she needed to help her sister somehow as her sister was her everything.

Since then, Hanni tried to be a better person and even telling her friends to act more appropriately now which they found weird but followed her. The Old headache of a student Hanni was gone, and in the class was the studious Hanni. Some teachers were even surprised by her sudden change of behavior but they also praised Hanni for changing her bad behavior.

While everything was going her way, she couldn't help but feel bad to the person she hurtled the most.

You.

She would cringe at herself remembering the horrible mistreatment she would make you go through and everytime she remembers them, she wanted to beat herself up over and over again. She made it her goal to sincerely apologize to you but your mood everyday just look so gloom and depressing that she couldn't help herself but shy away.

This action of her would only made her more frustrated as she couldn't bring herself towards you. Now she hoped that this event would help her find you but it's like the universe was setting her up not to even see you as everywhere she go, she couldn't find you anywhere. She was getting frustrated as she ruffled her hair aggressively.

"Where in the blue hell is that dweeb?"

She sighed and decided to rest at her favorite spot in school.

The rooftops.

Even though the weather was a bit chilly and the sun was hidden, the rooftops was still the best place for Hanni to collect her thoughts and she would expect that nobody would be in the rooftops considering how the school is very much active. She pushed the door opening to the rooftops and she was greeted with a soft cold breeze from the humid atmosphere above her. But to her suprised, she saw a figure sitting in the edge of the rooftop as her heart began to race as the worst case scenario that she wishes not to encounter is infront of her.

"Who in the right mind-wait, isn't that Y/N?!"

Her eyes widen as she swiftly moved her feet and grabbed him and pulled him into safety. Hanni was fuming with rage because she didn't expect that you wanted to end you life when she hasn't even apologized to you.

"What the hell are you thinking dipshit?! Do you wanna die that badly?!"

Hanni raised her voice as you looked up tired and exhausted but Hanni suddenly came into your view with a very angry face.

"Hanni? Wha-what are you doing up here?"

You sat up as you were completely caught off guard seeing your bully, well your previous bully getting mad at you after tackling you for some unknown reason. Hanni was now a raging bull after hearing your response. She gritted her teeth in annoyance as seeing her mad scared you.

"W-Wait Hanni.. I-I could explain.."

"You better Dipshit. I'm waiting."

Hanni crossed her arms near her chest as she stared at you intently with burning gaze. This was the first time you saw Hanni this mad and you didn't even do anything to provoke her.

"I..I just wanted some time off to think and I went here."

"Why are you even on the edge of the rooftop. You could have died!"

Weird.

You found Hanni acting weird right now. You blinked several times to wake yourself up as you couldn't believe that your bully, Pham Hanni, just told you how you could have died. Hanni, your bully, cares for you.

"I'm sorry Hanni, but... Why?"

"What do you mean why?"

"I-I mean w-why do you care if I die?"

"You asshole!"

Hanni punched your shoulder but to your surprise, her punch wasn't like the punches she used to give you instead her punch felt like it was out of worry and not out of bullying. It may sound weird to others but that's just how her punch felt right now. She then grabbed you by the collar and pulled you close to her face where you saw her face up close.

"If you died, I'll forever regret of not apologizing to you properly. So don't go fucking around and die just yet!"

Her eyes were furious but you could see that there was a few tears forming on her eyes and this really made you feel weird. Add in that seeing Hanni up close made you saw how beautiful she really was. Her soft skin and plump cheeks made it clear that her cheeks are very squishable. Her eyes who's burning and piercing you right now captivated you and you saw how her lips were perfectly carved.

"What? Why are you staring at me? Answer me Y/N!"

"H-Huh? Y-Yes! I-I won't die just yet."

"Not just yet. Never. Okay? Got that?"

Her demanding voice made you snap your weird thoughts away from her as she sighed and removed her grip on your collar and separated the two of you.

"Anyway, Like I said. I wanna apologize to you for all what I did and I know that even if I apologized now. That wouldn't be enough for all the pain I cost you. So if you wanna retaliate, sue me, or even push me off the edge. You have my consent cause I, Pham Hanni apologize."

Hanni respectfully apologized to you with her body fully bowed towards you. This day was full of surprises for you but seeing Hanni fully bow to you and apologize to you made you confused. One part of you hated her for making your life miserable but one part of you also want to accept her apology because you saw it yourself on how much Hanni has changed ever since she covered you from Minji. You wanted to really believe that Hanni has changed yet you still didn't fully trust her.

"Hanni, y-you sure there's nothing behind this apology? Because honestly speaking What you did to me really made me lose hope in living anymore."

Hanni bit her lip realizing how much of a douche bag she was. She knows that accepting her apology would be more of a stretch than she expected.

"But if there's one thing I learned from Jiheon is that people deserve second chances. The moment you covered me from Minji, I was confused but seeing you be the opposite of who you used to be gave me the idea that you really are changing for the best."

Hanni looked up and her big soft pair of eyes made you flustered as you looked to the side avoiding her gaze.

"S-So Hanni. I accept your apology but you better behave-"

Hanni cutted you off by hugging you tightly. Her action only made you shocked and confused as you have never, and I mean EVER saw her react like this. Pham Hanni, your bully is now hugging you and smiling so brightly at you.

"Thank you! Thank you so much Dweeb! Errr I mean Y/N!"

You really didn't know what to do but your instinct was the one who controlled your body. Your hand traveled to her hair as you stroke her gently making Hanni widen her eyes and realizing what she was doing.

"Ah!"

She immediately pushed you away as you landed on the floor flat.

"Ouch."

"Oh no, I'm sorry Dweeb-I mean Y/N. I'm sorry."

Hanni quickly went to you offering you her hand as you could only sigh. You accepted her hand and both felt weird when their hands touch. Hanni has heen bullying Y/N for some quite time yet this was the first time when both realize something.

You were obviously suprised by how small and soft Hanni's hand were. You expected her hands to be rough Considering she was a bully but her hands felt like it's been taken care of very well.

Hanni was so surprised by your hand. Never once would she feel like her hand melted on someone else's touch other than her sister. Growing up, she was quite sensitive to things and she hated rough hands as she finds them disgusting yet right now, you were proving her wrong. Her hand felt so natural to be with yours as the two of you stared for each other for a while before Hanni realized what she was doing.

She immediately helped you up and pulling her hand away and your hand felt cold when her touch was gone from your grip.

"A-Anyway, what are you doing here Hanni?"

You tried to break the awkward atmosphere around the two of you as Hanni avoided eye contact with you as her cheeks were suddenly heating up.

"T-This is my spot."

"Oh, should I leave?"

"What? No just stay. I mean, I don't mind sharing my spot with you."

"But am I allowed to?"

"Aish. Of course you are. Y-Your my f-f-friend now so I don't mind..."

Hanni pouted her lips as she felt embarrassed saying you were her friend but for you, you were all smiles as you couldn't believe that your bully became your friend. Just when you thought that Jiheon was your only friend, An unexpected surprised came to you and Hanni become your friend.

"This is... Weirdly amusing"

You and Hanni ended up talking about a lot of things as you were surprised that Hanni actually has a lot common things towards you. One of them is the love towards basketball. Hanni tried her best not to tease you about not joining the basketball team but because of your lack of confidence, you ended up not joining. Seeing you all down made Hanni feel sad as well. Sure, she was used to seeing you all sad because she used to bully you but now that she was your friend, she wanted to help you get over that lack of confidence you have.

"Hey Y/n listen to me."

"Hmm?"

"You need to trust yourself. Now listen up, the school Varsity team would be recruiting some fresh legs next month so why don't I help you?"

Your eyes widen in surprise by her propsal. You weren't even sure if Hanni was saying the truth or if she's just playing with her feelings but you ended up agreeing to her. She was all smile hearing your answer as she then came close to your startling you even more. She began to observe you face as she pouted out of her habit whenever she's thinking of something.

"Hmm... Have you ever removed your glasses before?"

"Umm.. Only when I go to the shower or sleep."

"Well take them off."

"Wh-What? Why?"

"Just take them off wil you."

Not wanting to anger the small girl anymore, you removed your glasses as Hanni's pout suddenly turned into a shocked expression.

She has never expected that the person she was bullying looked so differently when he removed his glasses. Hanni was captivated by you facial looks without your glasses as she immediately can tell that without your glasses, you imitated a strong aura which really attracted her. You saw how her cheeks suddenly was turning pink.

"Hanni, you alright?"

"Y-Yeah. You should get a haircut too."

"Should I? But I don't think having a new haircut helps me in getting into the team."

"Nonsense. Trust me you need to get a haircut. Also this should be your cut."

You noticed how skilled and detailed Hanni is when it comes to hairstyles as you couldn't help but smile at her genuine help. It was a weird way of befriending your bully but this was better than having Hanni as your bully till highschool. You had once again a reason to go to school.

TIMESKIP: 1 WEEK LATER

Murmurs was heard all around the corridors as all eyes were on you. It made you feel uncomfortable but remembering the words of advice from Hanni, you brushed off your uncomfortable feeling and walked the hallways of the school.

Everyone couldn't believe that a new student has transfered to their school during their midterms as everyone began to spread of the word. Everywhere you look, you can see everyone staring at you and you just smiled at them. That smile Immediately made the students go nuts especially the girls who began to put makeup all over their faces as they try their best to win you over. Once you were at your classroom, you sat at your usual seat and everyone in class began to whisper at each other seeing a new face but Hanni was smirking from the sight of everyone.

During that 1 week span, Hanni helped you have more confidence by being yourself and actually having a haircut. It took sometime to decide on what haircut you would have as Hanni was your personal assistant on choosing the right haircut. Both of you agreed to go out together to pick some clothes and for once, you actually had fun picking clothes unlike before where you would just buy online. Hanni encourage you to talk to the sales man/lady about the clothes you have and Hanni would be all smile when she saw you casually talking to them.

It wasn't such a big improvement but Hanni was glad that you had atleast some confidence to enter the class like nothing happened to you. She notice how Minji stared at you intensely and she even bit her lips.

"Hey Hanni, wanna bet I can make him my boyfriend?"

Hanni just rolled her eyes at her and smirked.

"I bet you won't."

"Watch me."

Minji was about to turn towards you when you walked past her and went to Hanni smiling.

"Ah, here's the hair wax I borrowed Hanni. Thanks."

"No problem Y/N."

Everyone gasped hearing the words of Hanni. They couldn't believe that the quiet and bullied classmate of theirs suddenly turned into a different person. A more attractive person. It's as if they were looking at a new and reborn version of you which was true. The entirety of the day was how other students came in waiting for you to come out and this really made you uncomfortable. Hanni was the one who shooed them away with her intimidating glare which made them scared as they all left.

"Thanks Hanni. I owe you one."

"You owe me a lot Dweeb. Hehehe~"

Hanni brightly smiled at you and you still haven't got used to how beautiful her smile is. Everything about what you thought of Hanni was immediately changed after hanging out with her. You though she was a no good for nothing student when she in fact was actually quite smart. Hanni grabbed your wrist as the two of you headed to the cafeteria as it was packed with students trying to get their hands on the special jam filled bread. But instead of being the first ones, they were shocked to see how many people have already lined up for it. Hanni pouted her lips to the side as she found it annoying that she couldn't be able to eat her bread.

But the crowd suddenly gasped making you two look at the commotion was all about and there your heart cracked a bit seeing Jiheon all smiles as she waves at the crowd and beside her was her boyfriend Kim Sunooo, the prince of the school. They became a couple after that play and hearing about it only brought nothing but sadness towards you yet you ignored it for the moment.

"Oh it's Jiheon Unnie. Oh well, I wish they have left later on...."

Hanni said making you look at the girl as her lips pouted. It was habit you saw from her whenever she would be sulking and you honestly find it adorable. Seeing her in such state made decide to give her a hand.

"I'll be right back."

"Huh? Where you going?"

You didn't answer her yet her eyes solely focused on you diving into the wave of hungry students squeezing themselves into the crowd. You were Getting pushed and pulled around yet you continued to push through the crowded and congested line. Hanni's eyes never left you as she felt so bad seeing you get pushed around. Her heart was being shattered seeing you struggle as she wishes nothing more than for you to be safe.

But all of her worries would be washed away when you got out of the line catching your breath and showing Hanni a warm smile.

"Hanni, I got the bread."

"You idiot. You could have gotten hurt. Are you okay?"

She placed her hand on your face observing it which you could only chuckle at her. Call yourself selfish but you liked the feeling of Hanni's touch on your face as it just keeps you at ease. You also found it weird that Hanni is somewhat was able to calm you down or even cheer you up whenever you needed it and it's been just a week since you two buried the past and moved to the future as friends. You held her hand to your face and leaned closer to her smiling brightly.

"I'm alright Hanni. No need to get worried."

Hanni was taken back by your sudden bold action. The space between you was shortened because you leaned in closer towards her. Her cheeks immediately turned red seeing you up close and wearing a proud bright smile. She could tell that her heartbeat was racing yet she tried her best not to act flustered.

"A-Alright. L-Let's just go..."

Hanni walked away from you making you chuckle at her cute reaction.

"Ahhh she's so cute....wait, did I say my Bully is cute?"

You shook your head and continued to chuckle as you followed Hanni from behind. Unbeknownst to you was that someone was watching from afar your interaction with Hanni and this didn't sit well with her whatsoever.

It's finally the last day of school and every student was finally gonna enjoy their summer vacation ahead of them but before that was the mighty final exams. This was the giant mountain that they have to climb before they could tatse that sweet sweet summer atmosphere. Luckily for you, you didn't have to worry about your grades because all of them were all straight A's and if you did fail, your final grade will be at most a B- or C+ which means you passed. So you were really relaxing in your room except that there was someone who's really worried about their own grade.

"Damn it! Hey Y/N. How do you get this again?"

You smile and took a seat next to her. Hanni has been hanging out with most of the time. Although you were busy with your club activities and basketball training, you still find time to hangout with her and she actually appriciate how much effort you give her especially when you have a tight schedule.

Hanni would be lying if she say she didn't like you.

Yes, your once Bully turned to the closes friend has feelings for you.

When that first though came to her mind, she wanted to vomit because of how absurd that thought was especially considering that both of you were just starting your friendship and there was no no possibility of her falling for you. That equation wasn't even formulated yet but as time goes on, the more you give effort to hanging out with her, helping her study, and even helping to her sister's job caught her attention.

The speculation of her falling for you got stronger when Minji admitted to her that she likes you. She shouldn't have been feeling so scared and worried but when Minji confessed to her, it made her feel so scared that she could lose you. It also didn't help that Hanni would see you with Jiheon all smiles and laughter. She felt so lost whenever she sees you happy with someone else and not her but she knows that she shouldn't be selfish as well, after all, she's just your friend.

But you keep giving her false hope whenever you appear in her and most of them was were when she needed you the most. When her sister's job was being threaten to be removed, you pulled up and showed everyone the files that her sister's business is legal and labeled in the government. Nobody has stepped up for her or her sister except you. You were silently inserting yourself in the Pham's household without even realizing it. Hanni realized that you weren't longer the Dweeb who would shy away from everything. No, you had become someone better. Someone who pushed out of their boundary just to help someone, someone who was ready to help, someone that Hanni needed, Someone that Hanni loved.

"I heard that your club will be having a picnic at the park this weekend."

Hanni said as you nodded your head at her.

"Yeah, it's like a goodbye ceremony to our seniors who will be graduating this year."

"I see, so Jiheon will be there right?"

"Y-Yeah, of course."

You didn't see how Hanni frowned a little hearing you stutter when she mentioned Jiheon. She knows that she has no chance to winning you over someone who's perfect and everyone admires.

"I also heard from Minji that you two will be watching the fireworks showcase during the weekend. It's at the Beach right?"

"Yeah..."

She tried her best not to sound dissapointed but she couldn't. She had hoped that you wouldn't join Jiheon during the weekend to hang out with her but it seems that you already have plans ahead. This only made Hanni more frustrated as she grabbed her stuff surprising you.

"Woah, where you going Hanni?"

"Home. Thanks for having me over."

Hanni bowed to you as she grabbed her stuff and placed it all in her bag then left in a hurry. It made you feel terrible seeing Hanni leave you so quickly as you wished nothing more but to spend more time with her. You have grown fond of your bully as she was now a changed person. There was little to no signs of her past self resurfacing and this made you happy because you finally have a friend you can hang out freely. But there was a little problem.

You had completely fallen for Hanni.

It was weird to say the least how much your heart always calls out for Hanni. Seeing her change so much for the better was a great thing because you finally realized that Hanni turned into a bully because of her environment growing up and how her family turned out to be. You wanted to help her in every way as you would go out of your way to help her in all possible way to at least make her feel at ease but the unexpected thing happened. As time goes one doing all this for Hanni, you ended up falling in love with her.

Some people may call you crazy for falling in love with your bully but that's just how it works for you.

But there's one thing stopping you from really realizing that you liked Hanni, Baek Jiheon.

Jiheon and Sunoo's relationship isn't going well lately and Jiheon has only you to be her support wall as seeing her cry breaks you heart as well. Jiheon was your first love in your life so she has a spot for your heart but Hanni was slowly making her way into your heart as well. You can't just choose both even if they were both important people in your life.

Jiheon, the girl that showed you that there will always be hope for you. That there is a light in every dark days you have and there's always a tomorrow to look forward too. Jiheon showed you what love can do to a person and how much that can motive them to be better.

Hanni, the girl that showed you that change is the only permanent thing in the world. Everyone can change for the better or worse but at the end of the day, it will be your choice on what change you will do. Hanni showed you that someone can change for the better and it's never to late to try things you wanted to do.

This frustrated you as you don't know the define answer to this question. But this weekend you might have the proper answer to what really is best for you. With a heavy sigh you jumped into your bed with a distress expression.

"I hope what I'm gonna choose is the right one..."

"The park feels so nice right Y/n?"

Jiheon smiled brightly at you. No matter how much she flashes you her sweet bright smile, you will never get tired of it even if she does it a thousand times in one day.

"Yeah, it does."

Everything was set-up perfectly as even the atmosphere was perfect. Everyone all had a smile because even though this was a sad day, it was also a day to be celebrated because of the accomplishment that the seniors are graduating. Jiheon being the best leader of the club made sure that the seniors feel the love they deserve as she handed them gifts as thank you for their efforts.

This has always been what Jiheon is good at, being kind and cherishing anyone no matter who they are. So it was quite easy why you fell for her and to why Sunoo fell for her too. As the orange sky painted the sky, Jiheon's Beauty reflected it's beauty as a soft breeze past her her by. Your eyes saw how glowing Jiheon was as she adjusted her hair behind her ear. Her smile that never seems to fade just shined so brightly that it captivates you.

"Say Y/N."

"Y-Yeah?"

"Can you follow me for a bit? I wanna show you something."

Jiheon grabbed your hand and you felt how soft her hands were. It wasn't everyday when Jiheon showed you skinship and when she does, it made your flutter a thousand times than normal and right now, Jiheon looked so beautiful as she walked you around the park.

On the back of your mind, this felt like a date which you have always dreamed of doing. From laying on the bed dreaming of the day when You would take Jiheon by her hand and walking in the park. This was your dream and right now it was the reality of things. Everything was going your way with Jiheon as she smiled at you and walked with her hand in hand. But one part of you felt hurt knowing this was the everyday view of Sunoo. It felt so wrong liking someone who's already taken.

"Y/N, you have changed a lot huh?"

"Huh? What do you mean?"

"I mean appearance wise, you looked more... A-Attractive and your shy demeanor is now gone. Heck, Your even part of the Varsity team now."

She proudly look at you as your heart melted. Everything you have dream of doing with Jiheon was happening right infront of you yet something didn't sit right with you. It feels like there was a catch with how this was presented to you. It felt like there was a string attached to this and was a set up to something very emotionally draining for you.

The two of you walked all around the park admiring the scenery around as both of you were enjoying each other's silence. No word's was needed between the two of you inorder to enjoy the walk.

"We're here."

Jiheon finally spoke as both of you were standing un the park bridge. The small river below you made it so relaxing as you looked up and saw that the sun was setting and darkness will soon engulf the sky.

"It's a nice place."

"I know right. This place is my little sanctuary. Well I don't think it's little considering it's open to the public."

Jiheon chuckled as you smiled at her. A memory flashed through your mind as your smile only got brighter remembering the first time Hanni apologized to you.

"Y/N, I really wanna thank you for being there for me all the time. I wouldn't have gotten this far if you weren't there."

Jiheon's words caught you off guard as you really didn't expect the sudden words comming from Jiheon. You were obviously the person who admired Jiheon the most and was one of the reason why you continued on but to hear her admit this, made you realize that you were important in Jiheon's life.

"I merely did anything."

Jiheon shook her head and and grasped both your hands as she held it tight. This made you blush at the sudden contact as Jiheon giggle admiring her hands on to yours.

"Y/N, that nothing you speak off is a lot. Whenever I feel like giving up, you were there to cheer me back up. Even before you changed, you were my biggest pillar of support and I really, really couldn't thank you enough but..."

She trailed off and suddenly looked at you with an expression of uncertainty. Something that you were accustomed off whenever Jiheon had trouble with something. Everytime you see Jiheon make that face, it breaks you to pieces and you wished nothing more to help her smile. But something tells you that this issues of her is not something you can easily help.

"But an unexpected thing happen. Call me a crazy bitch for this but I... I actually liked you Y/N."

A phrased that got you frozen on your feet. The words that only played on your mind and imagination over and over again Hoping it would become a reality was now a reality. Your ears heard it very well.

Baek Jiheon.

The girl that became your beacon of hope when things weren't going their way.

The girl that you found amazing and beautiful.

The girl that protected you from the harsh reality.

The girl that made you heart ready to burst.

But

She was also the girl that made you hate yourself.

The girl that cause you so much pain.

The girl that confused you.

Yet

She was still the girl that you loved.

A sad smile appeared on your face. You retraced your steps of thoughts and realized that you already have an answer to your dillema. Jiheon was no doubt the best girl you have ever met and there was no way that the time you and Jiheon spent will be replaced.

"I liked you. I was too afraid to confess to you because I was scared that my confession could destroy the relationship we have. So I tried my best to ignore it and then Sunoo came and I though I should give him a chance. But I thought I would forget my feelings for you but they only grew more. And I ended up breaking up with Sunoo because I don't want to hurt him anymore. "

You were silent as you took this all in. The girl that you liked actually likes you back. That was the only thought that was stuck in your head and you couldn't believe it. You don't know what kind of string pulls was happening somewhere but this was it, Jiheon has finally confessed to you. The moment you have been dreaming off, the moment Jiheon say-

"Y/N, I love you."

3 words, 8 letters. A dream come true for you as Jiheon stares at you with a flustered cheeks and uneasy eyes. You can tell that Jiheon was very genuine with her emotions towards you. This made you flustered as well as your cheeks turn to bright pink leaving you a blushing mess. But time wasn't on your side. The longer the silence keeps playing, The worse case scenario will play out for the both of you. You feared that everything will be awkward between the two of you. With a gulp, you took all the courage you have and finally spoke.

"Jiheon, I-"

"Can't believe Minji got sick on a day like this..."

Hanni spoke to herself while sitting all alone on the beach side observing everyone happily smiling with their friends or loved ones. Today was supposed to be a happy day for Hanni as school was finally over and she gets to watch the fireworks with her friend but she got sick last minute. It also made her feel more sad considering that you are with Jiheon.

Her mood suddenly turned gloomy realizing that you must have the best time with Jiheon.

"He must be all smiles spending time with the girl she likes…while I'm out here, all alone watching the fireworks like the usual. Shit, why should I feel sad anyway? I have always watched the fireworks all alone, what's so different this time?"

Hanni tried to cover up the real reason why she was feeling sad this time unlike the times she was happy being all alone. The fact that a certain Dweeb caught her attention and shifted her perspective towards him. She chuckled at the fact that she was the one who helped him change himself yet she didn't expect herself to fall for him even more.

She saw how you were originally and what you really are a person. A guy with a big heart that was just scared to act because he lacks self confidence in himself. Something that she helped you overcome. But the reason she fell for you wasn't because you changed, it's because of what you showed her even before you changed. It was only now she saw her own mistake of bullying such a person that she felt so wrong falling in love with you. If she can, then she'll do anything to push you to Jiheon because she herself isn't worthy enough.

She can't seem to forgive herself for giving you so much pain and that's one reason of keeping her away from fully confessing to you. In her perspective, you deserve the world, you deserve someone more better, you deserve someone who would love you unconditionally and Hanni has all those things in an X mark.

She looked around hoping to remove those thoughts away as her eyes saw how the beach was filled with couples, families, friends and the like. But majority of them were couples getting all lovely dovey towards each other and a sour expression grew over her face.

"There's no way I will act like that. That's embarrassing!"

Hanni could only sigh as she observe the sea flowing through the sea. The sky has already turn dark and the moon was seen slowly climbing up it's peak but as of the moment, the moon's reflection can be see on the sea. The sound of the sea waves was weirdly relaxing for Hanni as she yawned a little. There was a soft breeze that past her by as she sat comfortably on her solo spot.

"I wonder if things worked out for them. I should probably be ready to face Y/N next school yea-"

"Hanni!"

THUMP THUMP

She froze on her spot. She didn't want to turn her back as she knows who was the person calling her name out. Her heart began to beat faster and all her thoughts began to be in shambles. She could hear your footstep getting closer to her and she wanted to run away right now. But her body was frozen shut as you took a seat next to her.

You didn't speak as you admire the moon's reflection and the sea breeze passing by. Hanni was the opposite, she was staring at you intently. She observed your handsome side profile as her eyes trails every part of your face. From your sharp jaw, small round ears, fluffy messy hairstyle, your Adam's apple and finally to your lips. In her view, your lips looked so perfect for hers as she wanted to know how would your lips locked with hers.

She almost lost herself but she snapped her thoughts away and realize that this wasn't the best situation for her heart and mental state. Something bad could happen or even worse, she might do something she could regret and she didn't want that. She suddenly stood up and turned around but you were quicker than her and grabbed her hand holding it firmly. Hanni silently squealed from the sudden contact as her back was turned against you.

"Why... Why are you here?"

Hanni managed to ask without sounding like a broken person yet you heard her voice. Hanni was at the brink of crying as this broke your heart.

"I wanted to.... See you."

Everything was wrong. This was wrong for Hanni. She didn't like where this was going and her heart was beating fast yet her mind was so confused and hurt. She doesn't want to believe it because she's not the one and she will never be the one for you. She can't accept herself being the person you choose over your first love.

"You could have just called me or texted me to meet up. No need to see me here."

"But I WANTED to see you. I NEEDED to see you tonight. Hanni."

Hanni bit her lips from making enough noise. Her eyes began to show tears as this was getting to painful for her. Her mind didn't want this happen because of the torture she would go through yet her heart was telling her to face it, To face you, to face the person she love.

"Y/N, S-Stop whatever y-your planning. I-I don't wanna to hear it. A-and let m-me go.."

Her body was beginning to shake from the stress of her emotions and her voice was beginning to crack indicating that she was close to tearing up and breaking down. You were no Idiot and you can tell that you were the reason why she was in this state of confusion, of pain and frustration. And tonight was the night you will help her clear all those emotions of hers.

"Pham Hanni, I'm not letting you go especially with how you stole my heart."

Hanni felt like she was just shot straight to her heart hearing those words. It felt so right and at the same time, it felt so wrong to hear those words out of your mouth. Her walls were beginning to break down as small drops of tears began to make their way down to her cheeks.

"S-Stop b-Bullshitiing M-Me and j-just go, leave me already!! Leave me be DWEEB!!"

Hanni's emotion was difficult to control right now and her defense mechanism from you was her screaming and scaring you but that didn't do anything. Instead of backing away, you closed the distance between you and her as you hugged her from behind. Hanni visibly yelped in surprised by your action but she also felt a soft, warm, protective embrace around her small body.

She hated this, she didn't deserve any of this but how come you were so stubborn especially with her.

"Let me go! L-Let me go!!"

Hanni squirmed in attempt to free herself from you hug but the more Hanni resist the more you hugged her closer to you. You don't want to let go of Hanni anymore and you want to protect her at all cost.

"Why... Why can't you let me go... Why do you... Like me..."

Hanni couldn't hold it any longer as she began to cry her heart out. It was painful for you to see and hear Hanni cry infront of you as you could only hug her and explain your take.

"Call me crazy, but ever since you helped me be a better version of myself, I started looking at you differently. I saw different sides of yours that I couldn't see before. The way you tried your best to change yourself made me proud and inspired to do the same. And seeing the side that you rarely show made me realize that you're beautiful, preety, kind hearted, hardworking girl. "

Hanni's strain walls showed cracked as she listened to you.

"Gone were the times when you were called the bully and now is called the the A student in class. How can I not love you when you helped me without any conditions and stayed by my side when I needed it too."

More cracks appeared on the walls.

"I admired Jiheon because of her angelic demeanor but the more I learn about and get to know you, the more I was getting myself deeper and deeper towards you."

"H-How can you say that you l-liked me? I-I bullied you and gave you painful memories. Why do you still love me?"

Hanni turned around and faced you. Her eyes were sad and her tears werw flowing nonstop as you began to stroke her hair.

"Yes you bullied me and I will never forget the pain you gave me."

Hanni avoided your gaze by looking down with her head head hanged low. This was what scared Hanni because there was no justification of what she did towards you yet you only smiled at her.

"But you also changed me and made me a fighter Hanni. You bullied me yet if it weren't for that bullying. I wouldn't be here talking to you, You probably didn't change for the better, and I'll forever torture myself seeing Jiheon happy with Sunoo. You get what I mean? It's like a butterfly effect. None of this would had happened if you didn't bullied me. I wouldn't be here confessing to you because I....."

"I love you Hanni."

Hanni's walls broke down and she couldn't hide it anymore. Her heart won at the end of the day as she cupped your cheeks and pulled you closer to her lips and finally closing the gap as you felt a soft pair of peach flavored lips.

Your world froze momentarily as your lips touched hers. Sparks and fireworks was all over your body. Your mind went haywire before going back online as Hanni pulled herself away from your lips. Her cheeks flushed red as she stared at you with her preety brown eyes. You touched your lips and stared at Hanni and it finally dawn at you at what transpired.

"Y/N. Do you really, really love me? Even after all what I did. You still love me?"

Her face still showed uncertainty but there was also hope now present unlike before. You gulped and took in a deep breath. Your answer to her question will determine what relationship will you have with Hanni.

"Hanni, I already have forgiven you when you apologized ro me. The past is past and what I want to look forwards too is how I'll spend my future with you. I Wil love you even if you turned to an ant, a bear or even a wolf. I love you Pham Hanni. I love you to the moon and back. I love-"

You were immediately cut off by the familiar peach flavored lips as Hanni kissed your lips shutting you up. Once again, her lips just send electrifying tingles all over your body and it also made feel relaxed and loved. You pulled her closer to you as you deepened the kiss.

BANG

Both of you were engulfed by a red light from the sky as both of you pulled away and looked up the sky as fireworks showcase finally began. Multiple fireworks began to explode in the air as the crowd was all mesmerized by the view. But you looked at Hanni as she looked at you two. Both your hearts began to beat again as Hanni pulled you close as your foreheads were at each other's.

"I love you too Y/N. I love you to the moon and back."

She gave you a heartfelt smile that was filled with happiness and love. And you showed your own smiled at her as your heart finally was at ease. You choose the person that your heart desired and didn't listen to your mind. You already went through a rough first love with Jiheon but Hanni, was the perfect love for you.

You could only laugh at the back of your mind realizing how your love story was so unique.

It started from bullying,

To her apologizing to you,

To her helping you change,

To see her change herself as well,

To being friends,

And now

Was finally lovers.

#pham hanni #kpop fanfic #new jeans #hanni #fluff #hanni x reader

472 notes · View notes

xjoonchildx · 2 years

Text

adonis | pjm x reader

🚨 summary: your crackpot of a neighbor will not rest until you throw yourself at the gorgeous paramedic in town. she's nuts, y'all.

🚨 pairing: reader x paramedic!jimin

🚨 genre: meddling neighbors? horny little old ladies with bad-slash-good intentions? awkward OCs who can't find the words to speak in the presence of greatness?

🚨 warnings: one very mouthy senior citizen, sweet/shy jimin, an OC who can't find a clean shirt throughout the entire fic, one very spoiled pomeranian, smoking, sexual innuendo, literally one line of implied smut

🚨 word count: 3.4K (lmao)

🚨 notes: this is my drabble *snort* for the possum anniversary and i am celebrating the wonderful @starlostjimin who is such a cool, funny, amazing, talented person. did you know that 911 is 911 in america AND canada? anyhoo. i hope you like my very first jimin fic ever, and i hope it delivers on the things that you wanted 💕

thank you always to @hobi-gif for being the most amazing beta and person in general.

If you had to wager a guess, you’d say it was Mrs. Choi from the fourth floor who’d dialed 911. That miserable old bat has always struck you as kind of a snitch.

At any rate, that’s how you find yourself standing outside your condo at ten o’clock at night, wearing nothing but a faded bathrobe and a pair of worn-out house slippers. Lights mounted on top of the fire truck idling at your building’s entrance turn the courtyard into a tragic makeshift disco, everything and everyone splashed in flashes of red and white.

You mill around on the damp grass with the rest of your neighbors, each of you turned into temporary exiles in mismatched sleepwear.

Mr. Nam from the sixth floor is yelling into his phone as he paces, giving someone an earful about the disruption. Mrs. Song from the seventh floor was smart enough to grab a lawn chair and she watches the scene unfold like it’s one of her beloved dramas. Mr. Baek from the first floor doesn’t pay any mind to the fuss around him, engrossed in a book good enough to drown out the grumbling and sirens.

But you don’t spot the woman who lives in the unit next to yours – not right away – because it takes her an absurdly long time to heed this whole evacuation business.

When Mrs. Yun finally breezes through the condo’s glass doors, she does so with all the subtlety of a pageant queen. She makes a beeline for you, decked out in a Hawaiian-print muumuu loud enough to wake the dead – accessorized by a full face of makeup, a full set of curlers, and her trusty Pomeranian tucked under one arm.

“What is all this fuss about?” she pouts, giving Chichi an affectionate scratch. You lean over to give the dog your own scratch and she licks your fingers as thanks.

“Hell if I know,” you shrug. “I came outside when I heard the sirens. Which, by the way, was about ten minutes ago.”

“I was busy,” Mrs. Yun sniffs, affronted by your reprimand. She sets Chichi down to pat her curlers and make sure each is still in place. “I have a friend coming over tonight.”

“A friend.”

“Yes honey, a friend,” she echoes, tone haughty. “You should try it some time.”

God, you really should. The only man in your life these days is the Doordash driver and the last time he’d come by, he’d made a clumsy joke about your sodium intake. You’d been embarrassed, sure, but somehow that pales in comparison to this reminder that you’re being outsexed by the little old lady next door.

“You should ask someone when they plan to let us back in,” Mrs. Yun says, tapping her foot impatiently. “You should ask – ” she pauses to look out over the crowd, eyes lighting as she points one fresh gel nail in the direction of the fire truck, “ – him.”

You follow the trajectory of that thin finger with your gaze until your eyes land on Mrs. Yun’s intended target. And then you blink as you take in what is surely the most beautiful man you’ve ever seen. Dark eyes and sandy blonde hair and a jawline so sharp, it could have been cut from granite.

Holy shit.

“I’ll say,” Mrs. Yun grins, and your face burns with embarrassment when you realize you’ve spoken out loud. It flames even hotter when she raises an arm to wave him over.

“Sir? Sir!”

“No. No, no, no, no, no.” You panic, whispering in the most threatening tone you can muster. “Put your hand down. Don’t – ”

But it’s too late. Mrs. Yun has already caught the attention of this Earth-bound Adonis. He makes his way towards you both without delay, wearing an easy smile so devastating it makes sweat bead at your temples.

“Hi there,” he greets kindly. “How can I help you?”

“Thank you, Mr. – ” Mrs. Yun pauses to squint at the name embroidered on the man’s dark navy uniform, “ – Park. What’s all this uproar about tonight, huh?”

“Yeah, sorry about that,” he chuckles, and you find yourself mesmerized by the way his eyes crinkle at the corners. “Someone called 911 because they smelled smoke, so we had to come check it out.” A radio secured to his shoulder crackles with an incoming transmission and he pauses to listen before he speaks again. “Pretty sure they’re almost done checking the building. Old places like this, we’ve always got to put in a bit more attention where the wiring is concerned. Wouldn’t want to leave you ladies in a dangerous situation.”

“Oh, of course not,” Mrs. Yun purrs, making no effort to hide the cheeky once-over she gives him. “We certainly appreciate you being thorough.”

The Adonis – Mr. Park – flushes, clearing his throat as the tips of his ears turn pink. You make a mental note to sit Mrs.Yun down later to explain that a few things have changed since her heyday.

The radio crackles again, a garbled voice coming over the line.

“Sounds like they’re almost done,” he explains, looking down at his feet to find Chichi sniffing at his boot. He crouches down to pet her and she curls into the curve of his hand, eager for his touch.

Somehow you’re willing to bet this man has that kind of effect on everything in his path – men, women, and houseplants alike.

He gives Chichi a few firm scratches before getting back to his feet. The rigid fabric of his uniform pants strains against the lean muscles of his thighs as he moves and Mrs. Yun’s eyes practically bug out of her face. You’d jam an elbow in her side if you thought there was a chance you could pull it off without being caught.

“I’d better get back,” he says, turning to you with one of those debilitating smiles. Your toes curl inside the shabby velvet of your slippers. “Please don’t hesitate to let me know if you need anything.”

“Oh, we won’t!” Mrs. Yun calls out, appreciating his retreating form with a lifted brow. You wait until the man is well out of earshot before turning on her.

“What the hell was that?” you demand.

“That – ” she says with her nose in the air, “ – is why you never leave the house without your face on.”

“You were practically undressing that man with your eyes,” you accuse hotly. “You do know what sexual harrassment is, don’t you?”

Mrs. Yun huffs as she bends down to scoop up Chichi. “I wasn’t harassing the man, I was appreciating him. Fine art is meant to be admired.”

“Oh, please,” you grumble. “And don’t think I missed that little detail about the smoke.”

She narrows her eyes at you.

“Mind your business.”

🚨🚨🚨🚨

One week later, a knock at the door nearly startles you right off the couch. You frown into your half-eaten carton of ramen and set it down on the coffee table, taking a moment to seriously contemplate pretending not to be home.

But then there’s more knocking – more insistent this time.

You pad across the floor, crack the door open and the ramen in your stomach threatens to come right back up.

“Hi again.”

You blink.

“Sorry to bother you, it’s just that your neighbor suffered a fall and she said you would have a key to get into her place.”

The Adonis – Mr. Park – looks a little sheepish as he stands in the doorway, waiting for you to speak like a normal human being with a passable set of social skills. He shoves one hand through his sandy blonde hair and the locks seem to fall back in slow-motion.

“I – y-yes of course,” you stutter, so flustered that you nearly trip over your own feet in your haste to scramble for the kitchen. You dig Mrs. Yun’s spare key out of the silverware drawer and rush back to drop it into his waiting palm.

“I hope she’s okay,” you worry, biting at the inside of your cheek. “I’m right here if you guys need anything else.”

“We’ll take good care of her,” another voice promises, and you crane your neck to peer past the stunning Mr. Park to search for the source of it. A second man stands out in the hallway, a heavy duffel bag slung over one muscular arm covered in a myriad of tattoos. His face is boyish and beautiful and soft, a stark contrast to his powerful body.

Jesus. Who’s doing the recruiting in this city?

“We’ll have this back to you right away,” Mr. Park promises, and your neck heats when he rewards you with one of his sweet smiles.

The second they leave, you make a beeline for the bathroom – and cringe as you stand in the mirror and peel one half-dried ramen noodle off the front of your shirt.

🚨🚨🚨 🚨

15 minutes later, Mr. Park’s picture-perfect partner is knocking at your door.

“Hey there.”

You might have run a brush through your hair and dabbed on a bit of tinted chapstick in the last five minutes, but he notices that – or the absence of one half-dried ramen noodle, he makes no indication.

“Hi again,” you say. “Is she okay?”

“Oh, for sure. Maybe a little banged up, but otherwise she’s alright. She’s asking for you though, if you can walk over with me.”

“Yes, of course.” You shuffle into the hall and let him lead the way, through the open front door to Mrs. Yun’s unit and the narrow foyer that opens up into her living room. She’s upright on the couch, holding an ice pack to her head. The glorious Mr. Park is bent down on one knee at her side.

“I’ll tell you what,” she says, looking as pleased as a queen holding court, “I’m grateful every day for the very dedicated public servants in this city. That was terrifying.”

“But you’re okay, right?” you ask.

“Nothing broken, so far as we can tell,” the Adonis says. “She’s probably going to be good and sore tomorrow, but for now she’s doing just fine.”

“Thanks to Mr. Park and Mr. Jeon here,” Mrs.Yun says sweetly. A little too sweetly, in fact. The wheels in your brain start to turn and you eyeball her from across the room. She peeks at you from behind the ice pack and dons an angelic smile.

“Yes, they are certainly appreciated,” you say slowly, the skepticism in your voice vibrating at a frequency only Mrs. Yun can hear. She beams at Mr. Park as he gets to his feet and starts to pack up his things.

Mr. – Jeon, was it? – slings his heavy duffel bag over his shoulder. “Be sure and take those anti-inflammatories tonight, okay? You’ll be all locked up in the morning if you don’t.”

Mrs. Yun practically preens at the personal attention she’s gotten from these two insanely good-looking men. “I will.”

“You’re lucky to have a good neighbor,” the Adonis says to Mrs. Yun, turning to you with a genuine smile. Your heart thuds in response. “If it’s alright with you, keep an eye on her tonight? She might need your help.”

“I’ll keep an eye on her, alright,” you say with a tight smile, and Mrs. Yun clears her throat.

🚨🚨🚨🚨

“Promise me – right now – that you really fell.”

“What did I tell you about leaving the house with your face on?”

“Answer the question,” you fire back and Mrs. Yun sighs, tossing the ice pack down on the couch.

“Yes, honey, I did fall. I fell in love with that scrumptious Mr. Park the second I saw him. And if I were a woman thirty – ”

You raise an eyebrow.

“ – Okay, fifty years younger than I am, I would be taking him for a spin myself. But since I’m not, I’ve decided that you should have him. Did I bend the truth a little? Yes. But for a good cause. I’m a very thoughtful person, you know.”

“You are outrageous,” you hiss, pacing as Mrs.Yun pretends to look for dirt under her fingernails. “This is a waste of public resources! They’re supposed to be responding to emergencies. Real emergencies.”

“First of all – ” Mrs. Yun is defiant, chin in the air, “ – Nothing ever happens in this town. Nothing. And second, there’s dust in your panties, sweetheart. If that’s not an emergency, I don’t know what is.”

Your mouth falls open in a silent scream and Mrs. Yun ignores it, climbing off the couch with ease to cross the room and crack open a window. She pulls a box out of the tiny accent table perched beneath it and proceeds to light an absurdly long cigarette.

“You’re too damned young to be shut away in your house all the time,” she argues, pursing her lacquered lips to blow a stream of smoke out the window. “Work. Couch. Work. Couch. How can you stand it? Let me tell you what I’d be doing right now if I could turn back the clock and have your youth again: Mr. Park. I’d be doing Mr. Park. You should be doing Mr. Park.”

You stifle a disbelieving laugh. The novelty of your neighbor’s loose lips and bad habits wore off a long time ago, but sometimes she still manages to catch you off guard.

“Well, I’ve got an early morning so unless you have any more unsolicited sex advice to share, I’m going to have to call it a night.”

Mrs. Yun blows another long stream of smoke out the window.

“Nope. I’ve got it all off my chest.”

“Good then,” you say, turning on your heels. You make it all the way to the door before you pause and call out to her.

“And put that thing out!”

🚨🚨🚨🚨

Three days later, you find yourself struggling with an overloaded paper bag from the grocery store. Yes, you’ve purchased the reusable ones and yes, they’re a hell of a lot stronger – but you never miss an opportunity to leave them hanging in the closet on your way out the door.

Something in the bag is wet – well, moist at the very least. And it’s enough to have you gripping the bottom tight with both hands as you try to maneuver your way through the revolving door at the entrance to your condo. It’s an awkward fit inside the narrow sliver of space and as you’re shuffling forward, the door’s momentum dies. You push at it with one foot and lose an onion from the bag, nearly losing your balance in the process.

You blow out a heavy breath and go to push the door again, only this time it smoothly glides away before you even make contact. The misstep makes you jerk forward, but at least the door keeps moving long enough for you to step out of it.

“Think you lost something back there.”

Most of your hair has slipped out of your ponytail holder by now, the strands matted to your forehead with the sweat you worked up on the walk from the car. But when you turn, you can still make out the glorious Mr. Park quite clearly. He drops the onion back into your bag and smiles at you.

“Please, allow me.”

He lifts the bag out of your arms, carefully securing the bottom like you’d done just moments before. With your hands now free, you push your hair out of your face and silently pray that you don’t look as unfortunate as you suspect you do.

“You don’t have to do that,” you demur. “But I appreciate it anyway. Mr. Park, right?”

“Well, I’d much prefer you call me Jimin,” he laughs, the sound of it making heat bloom inside your chest. “But yeah, it’s me again.”

He’s not wearing his uniform, you realize. And though some small part of you mourns the loss of those fitted shirts and pants, his off-duty look – an oversized sweater, jeans and pair of sharp boots – sure as hell doesn’t disappoint.

“Do you… live here?” you ask stupidly, as though a man this handsome could live anywhere on this entire street without someone taking notice. “Or – ”

“No, no,” he says quickly. “I came by to check on your neighbor. You know, after the fall and all. I told her she could call me if she ever needed anything and she asked me to stop by.”

“You gave – ” you pause, shock forcing your voice at least an octave higher, “ – You gave Mrs. Yun your phone number?”

His cheeks pink at the observation. “She’s in her 70s, you know? Lives alone. I really don’t mind.”

You truly have no idea how your chain-smoking, jazzercising, oversexed hellion of a next-door neighbor has managed to convince this man she’s a frail old woman in need of a hero.

Will wonders never cease?

“Besides,” he says, “She’s kind of...quirky, you know?”

“That’s a very strange way to say unhinged,” you counter.

He laughs.

“You’re funny. Come on, I’ll walk you up.”

yun: DID YOU HAVE YOUR FACE ON [ 9:15 PM ]

yun: he told me he helped you with your groceries [ 9:15 PM ]

yun: now tell him to help you out of your clothes [ 9:16 PM ]

you: go to bed [ 9:16 PM ]

Two days later, legs like noodles from spin class, you limp through your front door and sag onto the couch. You might have napped for a second, you’re not entirely sure – but after a knock sounds at your door, you are most definitely alert. Your thighs protest as you force yourself off the couch to answer it.

You crack the door open and it’s him. Adonis. Mr. Park. Jimin.

And you’re wearing a gray workout shirt with what you are certain is one very sizeable sweat stain down the front. Good God, will there ever be a time when you see this man and don’t look like a complete wreck?

“Oh my gosh, did she call you again?” you ask, incredulous. “You are so sweet to do this for her, really but this is too – ”

“ – She didn’t call,” he interrupts, looking just the tiniest bit bashful.

“Oh.”

“Listen, this is kind of embarrassing and maybe not entirely appropriate given I know where you live, but it’s just that I don’t have your number.”

Your eyes widen and your already distressed legs start to feel a bit more weak. Jimin scrubs a hand down his jaw before he speaks again.

“I was actually wondering if you might let me take you to dinner sometime.”

You blink.

“Or I could cook you dinner. I make this really great prawn dish? But again, I’m not trying to be a creep or anything and it’s okay if you’re not comfortable with that – ” he’s backpedaling now, his words coming out in a rush.

“– You are not a creep,” you insist, when you’ve finally come to your senses and figure out how to access your words and use them to form sentences. “I just – I was just not expecting that. But yes, I’d love to go to dinner with you.”

Your knees threaten to buckle at the slow smile that comes over him.

“That’s great.”

🚨🚨🚨🚨

You fling the silverware drawer open and practically rip Mrs. Yun’s key out of it in your mad dash to her apartment. No, you do not feel guilty for letting yourself into her house, the woman has absolutely no boundaries and could use a taste of her own medicine.

You slam the door behind you when you walk in, and Mrs. Yun squints at you from her perch in the window. She blows out a perfect ring of smoke and then raises a brow.

“Got a bee in your bonnet?”

“Give me one of those,” you demand. “Right now.”

🚨🚨🚨🚨

There’s a knock at your door – again – only this time, you already know who’s on the other side. It’s your beloved Doordash driver, bringing an order of your beloved shio ramen. Two, actually.

You open the door to grab your food and Jimin calls out from the couch.

“Need some help with that?”

“Nah, I’m good,” you say over your shoulder.

When you turn back to thank the Doordash guy, he’s staring into your living room, eyes wide and trained on Jimin. You clear your throat and he snaps his focus back to you.

“Have a good night,” he says pleasantly.

And then he gives you a thumbs up.

yun: can the two of you keep it DOWN [ 11:22 PM ]

yun: some of us need our beauty sleep [ 11:22 PM ]

#jimin fic #jimin x reader #park jimin #possumversary

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diabolicalacid · 2 years

Text

— LOVELOVELOVE (prologue)

pairing : semi eita x reader

genre : fluff

summary : eita and love through the years. a tale that begins with the girl next door and culminates with someone he befriends at his middle school over a mechanical pencil.

or, in which eita falls in love over and over again, with the girl next door, with music, with his grandfather’s old guitar, with volleyball, and it ends with him falling for you.

wc : 10.7k (i apologise, i just went with the flow tbh)

music : lovelovelove by baek ye rin

an : this is the prologue to my upcoming semi fic. i have no idea when it will be out. probably not before mid to late september since i have a few tests coming up.

REBLOGS APPRECIATED <3

it’s summer in the country. semi eita is twelve. he’s dawdling on the verge of puberty like a moth whirring under the shade of lamplight. a rather prominent adam’s apple sits at the bottom of his neck, allowing otosan to tease him from time to time, joking he could see it from a mile away if he were to try. and at twelve, on the edge of pubescence, love is a concept as foreign as it can be to oneself. at the same time, love is as familiar as it gets.

eita never invests much of his time thinking about what love could possibly mean. school keeps him busy most of the time, and he never really gets the opportunity to ponder over the particular thought. then again, at his age, it isn’t necessary for him to give it a thought either. he thinks there can’t possibly be anything more to love than what he already knows about it. there is hardly a chance love will turn out to be something grander than what he has already decided it is, at the age of twelve.

love is, he believes, in the brownies his okaasan bakes when she notices the slightest shift in his otherwise calm rhythm, the sweaters his obaasan sews right before the onset of winter to keep their family warm, the continental take out his otosan brings home every weekend as a nice change of pace from time to time. takechi, his only friend around the neighborhood, and also his next door neighbor, knocks on his front door at half past five everyday, inviting him out to play in the evening.

there is nothing more to love than such acts of services, nothing less either. eita decides this at twelve, right before the onset of puberty. he still has a lot to learn about the working of this world, but he thinks he already knows all the details about how it operates. for him, love reflects in doing the smallest things for someone, and while it might not seem like good enough effort, it actually is. as long as there is a wide smile on their faces, happiness in their hearts, a hint of contentment in their gratitude, there is nothing more he needs to do in order to love them enough.

the people around him love eita with everything they have, and he loves them in quantities equal to what he receives, if not more. he loves them in his own ways. in his own time. there is no other definition of love to him. love is in balance like this, like what he has experienced all his life, and he’s fond of the concept of love because it’s so simple, so caring, so endearing towards him.

heat wave surges in the month of may, and eita, with a pair of red flushed cheeks, clammy palms and a forehead drenched in sweat, chases after a turquoise butterfly wafting around his backyard under the supervision of obaasan, who sits on the egawa, sifting through the spinach leaves to separate the dried ones out.

the butterfly flutters, resonating with the pace of the wind current, floating towards the front yard, and he sprints after it, following its unruly trail. obaasan gets off the egawa to keep pace with eita before he runs off somewhere in the neighborhood without company. the butterfly fleets off, diminishing in the vast blue skies on its way to look for a new source of nectar, and eita’s attention is garnered by the sight of several cardboard boxes scattered over the concrete footpath, and a married couple (he can only speculate the nature of their relationship with no absolute confirmation) scrimmaging through the luggage outside the house across the street.

(“hey eita, did you know the house across the street is haunted?” takechi raises a brow, inquiring as he prompts eita to pretend to be interested in what he has to say, pushing his wooden spoon into the scoop of ice cream to take a heavy bite out of it. his words leave eita bemused, confused even, but mostly only a chuckle precipitates at the back of his throat when he thinks about how stupid takechi’s question directed to him truly is.

there was a rumour about tanizaki from house number six hundred six peeing his pants in front of the neighbourhood kids, another one about minatozaki dating a highschooler instead of someone who’s around her age while she’s just thirteen, but word about the house across the street being haunted spinning around the neighborhood is foreign to him. then again, as someone who finds out any and every neighborhood gossip he’s ever heard of from takechi himself, eita shouldn’t expect to know this rumour to begin with.

“no, what are you talking about?” eita questions the claim, deciding to amuse takechi even if it’s just for a moment or two, so he asks for a reconfirmation, eyeing takechi with curiosity, but more so with a puzzled look hanging on his face, while still licking the final splotches of ice cream rendered on his spoon.

“well, they say there are ghosts in that house.” takechi says, shrugging, biting into his spoonful of chocolate ice cream, making eita flinch in disgust at the sight of his teeth digging into the cold dessert, feeling the sensitivity rev in his own nerves as well. takechi digs into the scoop to obtain another spoonful, saying, mostly second guessing his words, “i don’t know if it’s true, but i never go close to that house. i’ve only heard rumors, but i’m still scared.”

“neither should you go anywhere near it, eita.” he warns, peaking eita’s dubiety regarding his words, making him drop his spoonful of ice cream to the ground. the summer heat melts the dessert, sweet liquid dispersing on the hot, summer concrete, snatching the smile off eita’s face, also the motivation to have more of it, although sweat drips down his forehead, wetting the concrete when the drops encounter the surface.

eita doesn’t believe in what his friend has to say. sure, takechi won’t lie to him on purpose. obaasan says friends aren’t supposed to lie, plus, at twelve, there is only so much he knows about being wary of peoples’ lies. takechi isn’t just people though, he’s a good friend, best friend even. but obaasan also told him once that ghosts don’t exist, and thinking thoughts alike is only barren. those beliefs are empty, words with no mass, and as eita grows up, he should know better than to trust concepts akin to those.

“well, i don’t think so.” eita shrugs, dismissing takechi’s claim as he tosses his wooden spoon into the dustbin close by, letting takechi have the last few bites of the ice cream they snuck out to purchase on this summer afternoon. he rejects the idea, earning a frown from his friend, “my obaasan says ghosts don’t exist.”

“well then you should tell your obaasan she’s wrong.” takechi enjoins, a hint of aggressiveness in his voice as he presses eita to believe his words, reasoning with him, “no family stays there for more than a few months. don’t you think it’s strange?”

his words strike a cord within eita because all said and done, they’re true. the house across the street certainly is queer, and coming to think of it, taking into account live observations, no one actually manages to stay there for more than a few months. four months is the most a family can take. a month is the least the neighborhood has witnessed.

takechi takes the last bite of the chocolate ice cream, letting the coolness disperse within to overpower the freakish heat of the sun. he jogs to throw the paper cup into the bin, and to pay the vendor for their treat.

eita thinks about takechi’s words for twenty seconds at the most before scoffing at himself for even giving those empty phrases a thought.

“well, i still don’t believe you.” he stands his opposition, choosing to believe his obaasan, highlighting a pout on takechi’s face. eita begins walking home, leaving takechi behind to follow him if he desires to do so.

he looks back to see takechi idle, unwilling to tag along with a face displeasured by his actions, and speaks up in an attempt to convince him otherwise, “maybe the house is just not good. maybe it has a lot of bugs or something, man.”

“let’s go home now.” eita invites him, gesturing takechi to join him by curling his fingers inwards.

takechi shrugs, humming in agreement with eita, letting his own claims slide past after giving it a thought. although eita believes his obaasan more than he believes in what takechi told him today, doubt still lingers around, and it’s push over his thoughts is quite strong, dodging the initial disbelief. before eita walks in through the gate of his front yard, he spends a few seconds staring at the house across the street and the eerie air that wraps around it.)

“another day, another family.” obaasan sighs, attention caught by the sight her grandson is staring at, as she reaches the front yard, short, tired steps trying to keep up with a youngster’s brisk pace. she pats his back lightly, gesturing him to move to the backyard.

this is the eighth family in the last three years, and the constant motion of families in and out of that house wouldn’t bother her as much if it wasn’t for the fact that she’s the oldest in the neighborhood. meaning, the responsibility of welcoming someone new into the neighborhood falls on her shoulders. at her age, with her bad knees, elbows that ache even at the slightest of motion, and a hunched back, there’s only so much she can take, so she wishes someone would move in permanently once and for all, sparing her the effort to welcome new families all the time.

but it seems the house across the street is truly haunted, with no family finding it within themselves to stay back, and in a neighborhood like theirs where everyone knows each other, rumors are quick to proliferate, which is why she needs to make sure eita doesn’t fall prey to the neighborhood gossip.

obaasan starts taking steps to return to the egawa to continue sifting through the spinach leaves, expecting eita to follow her trail back inside.

before he follows her inside, eita takes a final peek at the new family moving in the house across the street. he spots a girl around his age rushing out of their car, quickly taking a spot next to her mother, a gaming console hanging by her left hand, and the fingers of her right gently tugging onto her mother’s silk skirt as she surveys the new neighborhood she’s been brought into.

she feels a pair of eyes examining her and cranes her neck in the opposite direction, only to spot eita standing across the street with his eyes stuck on her. but she doesn’t find it weird, considering from his point of view, she’s someone new around the neighborhood he has lived in for so long, and he’s seeing her around for the first time. a small smile breaks her lips apart, counting on the boy to return it, but its approach leaves eita flustered, and cheeks that were already red at the expense of the summer heat, turn a shade darker. he runs off inside, and the smile on her lips instantly dims.

“we have new neighbors again.” okaasan announces, walking into the living room with two cups of tea. one for herself and one for otosan.

although he’s already well aware, and the news is nothing new to him following his encounter earlier this afternoon, eita still looks up from his gaming console, not expectantly, rather wearily, tired of the same sequence of events repeating themselves again and again.

otosan and obaasan turn their heads as well, following the announcement that was made, but no one has anything to say in response to it, perhaps because everyone knows she’ll be announcing the same thing to them a few months down the line. no one is surprised at her words, no one is thrilled at the thought of having a new family around for the second time this year already, and it’s only may.

obaasan sighs, looking up from the shirt she’s sewing for eita while otosan looks up from the office documents he’s busy updating. he says, sounding nothing but uninterested, “that sounds nice.” he goes back to working his job, while okaasan takes a seat next to him, nudging him to involve himself in the conversation, pondering, “i wonder if they have a kid.”

“how am i supposed to know that?” otosan mumbles, attention clipped onto the papers in front of him, sounding miffed at her query, even though the question wasn’t meant for him to answer. it was just a thought she chose to express out loud, not expecting an answer to begin with. a rhetorical question. something like a conversation starter of sorts.

she rolls her eyes at his wound up tone, resuming, “someone around eita’s age to keep him company.” she says, sighing, expectant eyes looking at eita who sits next to obaasan, tapping his fingers vigorously against the buttons, attempting to win yet another round of the video game he recently purchased.

“they most likely do.” otosan sighs before he finally joins in the conversation, focus drifting off the documents for a brief while as he tries to find words to comfort his wife’s concern. she finally offers him the cup of tea she had been gatekeeping for so long. he adds to his words in a vague attempt to reassure her, “just because the last two families didn’t have kids his age, doesn’t mean this one wont either.”

‘they do.’ eita wants to intervene the conversation. he knows the new neighbours do have a kid, and he did come across the daughter of the family earlier this afternoon, but he decides not to, resuming his game, knowing all too well that okaasan will force him to make friends with her even when he doesn’t want to. history will repeat itself. he knows this well because that is exactly how he became friends with takechi, and just because that worked out for him, doesn’t mean eita wants this to make it work this time around. he’s fine having just one friend.

“i hope so.” okaasan sighs, yearning for the possibility to be true, sipping from her own cup of tea as she continues looking at eita, but this time around, her eyes are drenched in worry.

he’s a quiet kid. she’s well aware of the fact. he has a difficult time making new friends. she knows this too. as his okaasan, she knows him quite well. at least that’s what she thinks, but really, eita himself doesn’t want to make any more friends. while she thinks he hesitates to talk to new people, the truth is, he doesn’t attempt at all. but takechi tags along despite eita’s reserved nature that holds him back from mingling with the crowd. takechi’s presence let’s her rest with ease. all she really wants is for eita to have a great childhood while he still can, except her aspirations for the same differ from those belonging to her son himself.

“why does it matter?” otosan asks her, curiosity rising because he doesn’t understand the origin of her desperation, sipping some tea before placing his cup on the coaster. he resumes updating the documents in hand, a part of him acquainted to her reasons beforehand. he finetunes his glasses over his nose before he screens through the set of papers, looking for the relevant ones.

“i just think he’ll get lonely if he doesn’t make friends.” she expresses her concern to her husband, still eyeing eita with the same worried look prying her face. eita notices her intense, but loving gaze on himself that’s just as worried at the same time, and in response to it, he leaves the room, hands clutching the gaming console. she sighs, watching him jog off, then turns back to her husband.

her expectations don’t sit right with otosan. though he already knew where the conversation was headed, but just this once, he hoped they wouldn’t end up going down the same road again. otosan wants to roll his eyes at her, but he knows that will only incite a fight, so he keeps it to himself, avoiding a response from his end.

the truth is, he doesn’t understand her one bit, and this isn’t the first time this conversation is being brought up. it’s an everyday thing at this point. eita is twelve, living a good life on his own terms. he’s a kid who knows to balance his academic life with other endeavors he takes a part in. plus it’s not like he doesn’t have friends at all. from what otosan has heard from takechi, him and eita do hang out with some other kids at their middle school. so his wife’s constant worry over the matter makes no sense to him. most of the time, he thinks, she overdoes it.

“you worry too much.” he tells her, taking a hold of her hand to rub her knuckles, reassuring her, “eita is twelve, and he has enough friends already. you don’t have to worry so much about him.” she nods, partly giving up her concern, agreeing with what her husband has to say, but a part of her still lingers in worry regarding the matter.

she spots eita sneaking a glance into the livingroom, eavesdropping on their conversation. he leans against the door jab, softly smiling at her, nodding to his otosan’s words, and she can’t help but return his gesture. she smiles back at him, lips finding it difficult to curve upwards with all the core rn that keeps dragging them down. but her smile, although only small, is still warm. eita runs off to his bedroom after he receives it.

it takes her eight days, but okaasan eventually discovers that the family across theirs has a daughter who is around eita’s age. missus shimada shows up at the neighborhood meeting to take part in a discussion about neighborhood development plans, and okaasan, who is too impatient to hold it in, questions her about her family. shimada tells her she has a daughter, and that puts a saccharine smile on okaasan’s lips, the very thought of her son possibly having another friend warming her heart.

“eita, you should try making friends with kanao, huh? the daughter of shimada’s across the street.” okaasan suggests, wiping wet dishes using a paper towel.

eita looks up from his console, putting a bleak expression on his face, but really, he senses uneasiness bubbling within himself. he knew she would find out eventually. it was only a matter of time before okaasan would meet their new neighbours and find out about the existence of their daughter. only a matter of few days before she would sock him into making a new friend.

the thing is, eita simply isn’t interested. he doesn’t want to get involved with the girl who lives in the house across the street. it isn’t because he doesn’t need another friend. while that’s definitely a part of the reason why, the truth is that he’s scared. takechi’s words certainly left an impact on his mind, and he hasn’t been able to shake the fear off his sleeves.

he hums, expression still bland, finger pressing the pause button on the console, saying, “i might try to.”

his response doesn’t exactly please okaasan. the saccharine smile that the news curved on her lips, and she expected it to return with eita’s compliance, fails to come back to her. his quaint response only stacks up her worry about his social life, and as much as her husband has reassured her that her son has more than enough friends, she’s well aware they’re only for namesake and nothing more. other than takechi, there isn’t anyone her son can rely on.

but she decides not to pry further, knowing eita will only be peeved at her, slipping him an obvious hint, “their daughter goes to the park down the street every evening.”

“you should head there with takechi.” she says, expectant eyes looking at eita who only looks up from his console when he finds her gaze stuck on him.

one has to be very nosey to know details like those is what eita thinks, and the fact that his okaasan knows it, certainly puts him to shame. he sighs, truly embarrassed thinking about just how many questions she had to ask to get that piece of information out of the girl’s mother, responding, “okay.”

her lips part into a small, but content smile, a part of it gleans from his slightly more enthusiastic response, another at the possibility that he might at least try. as long as eita tries, she’ll consider it a success.

making friends with the girl across the street however, doesn’t turn out to be as easy as eita thought it would be. he could just give up, considering he never wanted to do it in the first place. but knowing just how pushy and nosey his okaasan is, he wants to give it just one chance, aiming it wouldn’t work and the girl would end up disliking him.

but over the next few days, every time he steps closer to her in the neighborhood park, aiming to start a conversation, his lips and his limbs, in unison, come up with a new excuse to draw back from the attempt. it’s as if they have a mind of their own. they hold him back from fulfilling the one attempt his okaasan wishes he would make. she only worries about him, urging him more every night over dinner. he smiles and nods, assuring her he will give it another shot, but history keeps on repeating itself for sixteen days.

eita decides to talk to takechi. he knows if there is one person who can make this task easy, it’s takechi, who is as social as one can possibly be. he tells him he wants to be friends with the girl who lives across the street from them, but he’s terrified. she lives in the haunted house after all. if she’s a ghost, eita fears she might hurt him and takechi.

at first, takechi laughs at him, shedding light on how eita was the one to disapprove of his claims and now he’s peeing his pants over the same. seeing him in discomfort over something he was strongly in opposition of only amuses takechi. boredom clicks in after four days of teasing eita over it every change he gets. nonetheless, he becomes friends with girl to help eita initiate a conversation with her. eita learns her name is kanao. he ends up liking the sound of it.

takechi tries dragging eita to the playground. but the resistance on his end is too strong and he finds all his attempts unsuccessful. each one worse than before. eita prefers to stay in his bed. the most he does is walk to the park only to find his friend playing around the place with kanao when he views them from the sidelines, never stepping in.

eita walks to the park, looks at kanao under the four pm sun. the marmalade skies reflect on her soft skin as she sprints around the playground, takechi running after her as the seeker. sometimes he comes across her on her way to the grocery store, hand in hand with her mother. smiles are exchanged but that’s all there is to it. sometimes she sways on the swing in her front yard, her dog keeping her company. specks of innocence linger around and about kanao, almost convincing him she isn’t a supernatural being after observing her for over twenty six days.

but takechi’s words that slipped off his lips, sticky with chocolate ice cream grate at eita’s skin, peeling the courage off of it every time he takes a step closer to kanao. he ends up taking two steps backwards, a strong desire to resist any sort of contact.

“what’s wrong with you?” kanao confronts him, arms crossed, face stricken with genuine perplexion as she towers over eita who sits on the bench next to the sandbox, digging through the grainy texture to kill some time. this happens on the thirtieth day after she finally gets tired of being stared at, and annoyance regarding eita’s skepticism gets to her.

“what do you mean?” he deflects the question, despite knowing exactly what she’s asking about. eita isn’t exactly good at being discrete. this much he knows because he has seen kanao arrest his eyes fixed on her more than once over the last month or so. he gets off and jogs to the side to lift a feeble branch, and starts drawing patterns in sand.

his nonchalance renders kanao even more ruffled at him, and she swats the branch off his hands, raising her voice, “eita, why have you been hiding from me? we can talk. we are friends, you know.”

“we are?” eita meets her gaze, a look of confusion glancing at her through his eyes, because he definitely did not expect her to refer to him as a friend after how he has been acting around her as of late.

“yes, we are.” she sighs, lightly battering his head with her hand, explaining, “i know you think i’m a ghost or something like that, but i’m not.”

“i’m just a girl and i want to be friends.” she shrugs, dilly dallying with her hands behind her back, looking at him expectantly, allowing guilt to disperse within eita.

but more so, embarrassment, because someone told her about the real reason he’s been avoiding her and more than reasonable, it sounds empty and embarrassing. of course it had to be takechi. eita makes a mental note to confront him the next time they cross paths.

“okay, we can be friends.” eita sighs, extending his hand to shake it with hers, calling truce, granting her the benefit of doubt that she isn’t a ghost, but is just a girl around his age who happened to move into the strangest house in his neighborhood.

somewhere in a small neighborhood in miyagi, where everyone knows each other and rumors spread faster than butter on a slice of bread, a friendship blossoms. this time, for real. eita tells okaasan two days later. the saccharine smile she lost over the last conversation with him returns.

“so, was it takechi who told you?” eita questions as the two of them sit under a mango tree in the park, burrowing teeth into the cookies she baked that turned out a little harder than she had expected.

“about what, eita?” at first, she doesn’t understand what he’s referring to, and she starts to look back on every single thing takechi has told her so far. but she’s a smart girl, so it doesn’t take her long to figure out what he’s questioning her about.

“mhm, he did.” she hums, nodding his way, and eita, who was almost sure of takechi’s notoriety, seethes, gritting his teeth when he spots takechi walking their way.

he drops the half eaten cookie into the plate before him, jumping to his feet, and sprints towards who receives the memo that eita is pissed and changes his trajectory to scurry the other way around. kanao’s lips break into the widest grin they’ve known since she moved to the neighborhood, when she looks at her newfound friends fooling around, realizing she’s no longer alone in this new place.

“so,” eita begins, stretching the word, “where are you taking me today?” he asks, much curious and unaware of kanao’s plans for the day.

her giddy self stands in her front yard, balancing herself on her toes as she peeks at the house across the street, waiting for takechi to join the two of them. she listens to eita’s question, but refuses to respond elaborately, only telling him so much, “there’s something i need you guys to see.”

“something i’ve waited to show you for long enough now.” she adds, also adding bulk to his curiosity.

at her words, eita is nettled, because he expected a better response, or at least something more than whatever he received, something he can utilize to connect the dots. “elaborate on it please.” he requests, taking a few steps ahead to tap on her shoulder, pressing her for more details.

kanao loses balance, encountering the ground with a thud, but it doesn’t bother her as much as eita’s curiosity currently doing summersaults does, even when she politely asked him to wait for her to guide him to the surprise rather than asking for it upfront.

“i’m sorry.” eita apologises to kanao who looks at him chafed, just not at the fact that he made her drop herself to the ground. the sight of his friend reduced to concrete because of his lack of patience churns some guilt within, and he protracts his hand for her to take.

kanao accepts his offer to help, allowing her fingers to mesh with eita’s. it makes the blood rush to his cheeks, so he tilts his neck downwards, away from her gaze. this, kanao fails to notice, more focused on getting herself back on her feet. as she rises up to her feet, she tightens her grasp around his fingers, allowing more blood to flow to her cheeks, painting them deep red, making him almost drop her to the ground when he lifts his fingers off her hold. but kanao is quick to stand up, and she clamors, warning him, “you almost let go, eita.”

“i’m sorry about that too.” he apologises again. this time for almost dropping her, and his gaze still stays on the concrete rather than focusing on hers. she doesn’t think of it much, but she worries her dress has been ruined. kanao dusts the soil particles off her white dress before she turns towards the house across the street to wait for takechi’s arrival, forgiving eita in the process, “it’s okay.”

eita mumbles, “thanks.” she hums at him, avoiding offering him a glance, and continues to peek at takechi’s house.

the blood rush in his cheeks dies down after a few seconds, but the memory of kanao’s touch against his skin somehow lingers as one of his fondest ones. it makes him wonder if he really likes kanao more than what he lets himself and the people around him believe. it’s not like he doesn’t already have an idea about his feelings. in fact, on various occasions, whenever he has looked at her laughing under the orange skies and the shadow of the setting sun, the peachy hue reflecting against her soft, shiny skin, the scenario has coerced him to give his feelings a thought. even if it was just for a while, and the thoughts faded away as briskly as they appeared to him.

at the end of the day, those thoughts were only vacant to him, like his feelings towards her hold no mass whatsoever, like having a crush on your neighbour isn’t physically possibly for him, like eita could never love someone that way because he has never known love like that before. like a first glance into what romantic love cannot come to him at twelve. semi eita might like kanao shimada but it has nothing to do with love. the thought swarming his mind is bristled off when he decides he’s probing into it far too much.

although they’ve been friends for almost half an year now, eita has never had kanao touch him for more than a brief moment before this. sure, her skin has brushed past his on countless occasions. she has also held his hand, but she has also let it go just as quick. this, however, is a first for him. the blood rush is nothing much to think over at all. it existed in the moment because he was too flustered by a first time thing. that’s all there is to it. eita can never love kanao. that’s a stretch too far. he might like her, but love is a no go.

“just don’t ask about it again.” kanao requests him, and he hums in agreement, deciding to wait for the surprise rather than imposing.

she invited takechi and him over to her place for something special but never mentioned exactly what it was supposed to be. she said, and he quotes, “there’s something very special i want to show you guys, so make sure you come prepared tomorrow.”

now, there could be a lot of things kanao might want to show him and his friend. a lot of things she might be referring to that eita already knows exist, or perhaps it’s something he’s a complete stranger to.

maybe it’s her pet dog, who eita has seen sauntering around her front yard, and the one who barks too much. so much so that eita can barely sleep at night ever since her family moved across. maybe it’s a new board game she bought. something new for them to play as a trio. he can only guess so much. eita doesn’t know what it’s like to be surprised. his only friend is takechi and he has nothing but a shit ton of crap packed up his sleeve, so this experience is new to him.

takechi arrives, huffing as he bends over his knees to catch a breath, after running down his stairs and across the street to be here on time. kanao sighs, looking at his state in worry, “you could’ve walked here, you know.” she says, reaching out for the water bottle sitting on the swing.

“eita and i would’ve waited.” she tells him, handing him the water bottle in her hands. he takes it off her, quaffing half of it before handing it back. “thanks.” he lets out a breathily, leaning onto her gates, waiting for his nerves to calm down that were under pressure due to his speed.

“okay, guys, let’s go inside.” kanao announces when she notices that takechi’s breathing returning to normal, taking eita by the hand and gesturing the other boy to follow them.

kanao’s touch against his skin and her finger wrapped around his own might not mean much to anyone else, but it makes his blood hot, and it pools at his cheeks. for a second time today, eita finds himself swamped in a feeling he possibly cannot put into words. although he convinced himself earlier that his red blotted cheeks meant nothing, he’s starting to realise, experiencing a blood rush second time today, he might’ve been grossly wrong about it. however, no one else notices because takechi is falling behind as they jog through the hallways of her house, and kanao looks up ahead, not sparing him a glance.

when she finally stops in front of a certain door, her grip against his hand tightens, and eita’s cheeks burn a shade darker, but thanks to the dull lighting scattered around the hallway, when she turns to the side to smile at him, she can barely make out the red gracing his cheeks gazing in awe at her parted lips. takechi stops right behind them, gesturing her to finally show them to their surprise, huffing because she made them sprint to the room, “are we here finally?”

“my legs hurt.” he whines, reducing himself on his knees to express exhaustion.

“we sure are.” kanao confirms his doubt, lips extending furthermore, curving further upwards as she abandons eita’s hand, and holds out her own to aid takechi.

once she gets him to his feet, she opens the door before them, welcoming their eyes to behold the surprise, walking two steps ahead inside of the room, reaching out for eita’s hand again. the red colour that had evaporating off his cheeks after she let go of his hand earlier, condenses along his cheekbones once again.

she introduces them to the room, light giggles intervening her words, “this is otosan’s studio. this is where he makes music.”

“i asked him if i could show it to you guys, and he agreed. isn’t it really cool?” she raises her brows, flaunting the sight in front of them that is her proud possession.

“truly the best room in the house.” she drops eita’s hand, and spreads her own two to the sides to showcase the splendor of the room her two friends are standing outside.

when she loses his hand, eita’s thumping heart regains it’s normal rhythm and the redness on his cheeks begins to dissipate. his eyes begin to glow more and more at the sight before him. what he’s seeing right now, he doesn’t know how to describe, how to put into words, except that it’s like a museum holding some of her father’s most prized possessions.

kanao’s father is a musician. this, she has mentioned on several occasions before. but the scale of his works has always been a mystery to takechi and him. however, the studio in front of them says enough about just how big her father really is, and the amount of equipment makes eita realise he doesn’t know much about music or anything at all. everything around him is foreign to him. the only instrument he really recognises is a guitar that looks a little funky, but it’s skeleton is more or less like the one he had seen at his place a few years ago.

“well, come on in, i want to show you something i’ve been working on.” kanao invites them to follow her lead, ambling a few steps ahead as she herself admires the view around her, but when she turns around to see them anchored in the same position, eyes wafting around the room in awe, she falls back, taking eita’s as well as takechi’s hand in her own, dragging them inside alongside herself.

he’s so mesmerized by the beauty of the place that eita forgets to notice his skin is in close contact with kanao’s for the third time today, and this time around, his cheeks don’t glow a shade of bright red, but his eyes glimmer in a revenant awe as he scans the place while she leads them to some distant part of the room.

“this is my guitar. i am learning to play it.” she lets loose of their hands, snapping her fingers at their faces, demanding them to match her gaze instead of hawking at the walls adorned with instruments, certificates and records. him and takechi snap back to reality in an instant, the view of kanao standing in her white dress with a guitar just a few centimeters short of her carefully nestled in her hands greeting them.

“do you want to hold it, eita?” she offers him the guitar, lightly pushing it his way, certainly complimenting him when she says, “you look like the kind who would be into guitars, i don’t know.”

“you just seem like it.” she giggles as she surmises, voice faltering towards the end when he doesn’t respond or react to her, only blankly staring at her, and she speaks the same thought once again, almost in a whisper, “it’s just that i just think you do.”

“i would love to.“ eita agrees quickly when he notes that his lack of response upset her, sensing the way her voice changed from that filled with excitement to one weighed down by nervousness.

he takes the guitar off her hands, aware he’s a stranger to the instrument and the art. he knows absolutely nothing about the instrument other than it’s physical skeleton, and that playing it with a plectrum is much more convenient than playing it with his bare fingers. despite his unfamiliarity to the instrument, he stands there, kanao’s guitar carefully tucked in his hands, ready to pluck its strings to produce new melody. she hands him her plectrum embossed with little pink flowers all over it’s body. eita takes a deep breath before he lets the plectrum stagger down the path of guitar strings, strumming a tune that’s foreign to everyone in room.

he’s no musician, so whatever melody falls into the space around the trio of friends sounds nothing spectacular. in fact, it almost makes takechi screw his fingers into his ears, and kanao flinches her face muscles at the tune eita creates with her guitar under his hold. she sighs, stepping closer, making an offer, “can i help you a little?” eita nods in agreement when he looks at the expressions sitting on kanao and takechi’s faces following his performance, only vaguely regretting his decision to accept the guitar from her in the first place.

kanao approaches eita from the back, placing her left palm on the headstock of the guitar, and her right palm next to eita’s hand, almost making him jump in place when he senses her skin brushing over his own. she seizes control of his right hand, arresting it under her control. this is the closest he has been to her, and it takes him everything in this goddamn universe to control himself from combusting into flames right in this moment. eita’s cheeks begin flashing red, his heart ready to leap out of his chest at any given moment as kanao’s hand lifts his right hand to strike the guitar strings appropriately.

takechi doesn’t fail to notice the pink shade that lines eita’s cheek bone augmenting darker by the moment. he takes a few steps back, deciding to leave without anyone taking a note of it. he walks out of the room, careful steps leading him away from kanao and eita. he chooses not to say anything as he walks out, and neither eita, nor kanao realise they’re one person short of their trio.

kanao allows the plectrum in eita’s hand to pluck the strings, guiding him into producing a melody that sounds much better than what his solo did. she tells him, sliding the plectrum across another string to produce a sharp note, pausing midway, “i started playing when i was seven.”

“i was never confident in my abilities, so i never told my friends from school about it.” she fesses, pursing her lips at the thought, feeling the pressure of her shortcomings slowly brewing up to reach her throat. but she compresses it to her gut, resuming as she admits, “but i wanted to show you, so here i am.”

“and here you are, holding the same guitar that got me into this in the first place.” kanao’s hand navigate eita’s, permitting a few more notes to be produced as the plectrum glides across the six strings of the instruments.

“you’re quite good.” eita compliments her, sewing a smile onto her lips, and she’s almost about to kiss him on the cheek but retaliates to avoid tension between the two of them.

her tone makes it obvious that she isn’t confident in her abilities as a musician, and he wonders why she would think so, when clearly, she’s a maestro at it and she’s only thirteen right now. he supposes doubting one’s abilities comes naturally to most people, and although there is much more she’s destined to learn about the art she’s engaging herself into, her reach right now just isn’t enough for her to be content with.

eita decides he likes this. he’s enjoying every moment of this. every time his hand moves at the order of kanao’s, something new takes shape, and while there are only seven notes in music as far as he knows, a tune distinct than the last one is created every time the plectrum held between his fingers strikes the strings.

he’s growing fond of it. the sound of the guitar buzzing in his peripheral overflows his heart with certain happiness, and more than anything, eita thinks he wants to keep doing this for a lifetime. kanao maybe a part of the reason why it makes him so happy, but he’s quite sure, more than anything, he has fallen in love with the instrument. it maybe his first time playing, but eita could go on guiding the plectrum to create new melodies for a lifetime without any regret following him.

but a part of him also knows the intimacy between kanao and him is also one of the reasons why adrenaline is sprinting through his veins, and his heart is thumping to and fro against his rib cage. at twelve, he knows almost nothing about romantic love, nor does he think he’s supposed to be acquainted to it. sure, he’s heard of it like everyone else in the world has, but to experience it is another thing. he also knows sakura from his class is ‘in love’ with shota from class four, and just because they’re twelve, doesn’t make their feelings invalid. but he isn’t in love. this much he knows. it’s just a crush.

one thing he’s sure of is that kanao makes him happy. around her, eita’s lips glazed with the orange juice her okaasan offers them each evening, stretch apart a littler wider than they do in response to takechi’s stupid humor. his voice, usually suppressed by his introverted nature, comes out a little happier, a little louder than it does on other occasions. this is proof enough for him to know that her presence in his life is of utmost importance to him. without her, eita is more or less like an empty shell that only echoes when someone speaks through it. takechi is his friend too, but with kanao, there are butterflies in his stomach and the urge to be a happier version of himself is glances through clear enough.

eita definitely doesn’t want to lose her, so he never thinks about his feelings much. for something as trivial as a crush, he doesn’t want to blow off his chance of having her as a friend for a lifetime, so he never really thinks about his feelings much or at all. he always brushes them off his mind like the empty thoughts he deems they are. but right, with kanao standing so close to him, holding his hand, introducing him to something he now wants to explore in depth for the rest of his life, eita’s heart can’t help but perform summersaults around his chest in utmost glee.

“i think i should get going now.” eita speaks up, stuttering around his words when he notices takechi’s absence. with not only his cheeks, but his ears fuming a bright shade of red as well, he decides staying around longer wouldn’t be wise by any means. he bows down to kanao in an apology, saying, “i’m sorry, okaasan must be waiting for me.” he dashes towards the door to the studio, looking back, forming a content smile on his lips, “let’s do this again.”

he jogs away, leaving her bereft with her guitar in the largest room in her house. she doesn’t understand much about the implications of his sudden action, but a smile sits firmly on the edges of her lips when she thinks about how she overcame her biggest fear, revealing about her talent to the guy she likes a little more than just a friend. extending an invitation to takechi was just a formality for him to not feel left out, and for her to not succumb under the pressure of her feelings for eita.

shimada kanao’s father signs a contract with a label in osaka. the label operates on a much larger scale and has a reach farther than the one he was signed with in miyagi. he gets offered a position to work on new music with a better label, and he takes it, plucking a petal off eita’s happiness unknowingly, when he tells kanao they need to move away.

she informs eita of her father’s plans, sweaty palms clutching onto the metal straps of her sling bag, fingertips cramping against the spaces between the metal blobs strewn together into a firm strand, her voice stuttering as words fall out, “i’m moving away next month.”

“where?” he simply asks her, finding it difficult to muster any other reaction to her sudden announcement, something he didn’t see coming on a slow, mellow afternoon, solely out of curiosity regarding the distance that will he separating the two of them for the rest of their lives.

“tokyo.” she tells him, fingers pressing firmer against the metal, nervousness gripping her bones as she waits for a reaction from his end.

eita doesn’t say anything in response to her, but he thinks about it by himself for a few moments. tokyo is pretty far. it’s a three hour drive from where he lives, and he knows he will never get the chance to visit her casually unless his family decides to take a short trip or something like that. he also knows kanao won’t be visiting him either. with both her parents being busy with their respective jobs, it’s nugatory to expect anything from her end at all. as for himself, his family isn’t outgoing, and the best they’ve done so far is to have movie nights on weekends.

so this is how it ends for them. he thinks it’s a rather bland ending to something he genuinely grew fond of over time. kanao’s friendship might’ve been something that was forced upon eita by his mother out of her concern, but it didn’t take him much time to get accustomed to its presence in his life. he even ended up growing rather fond of it. and as much as he would love to deny it, in this moment, he doesn’t want to pull a curtain over his obvious feelings for her. whether they constitute love or not, he never found out, but the thought of her absence from his life henceforth only weighs his heart down in some kind of brutish sorrow. the sudden end of something so wonderful scathes his limbs and organs through and through, suppressing his words alongside, staving him off a response.

eita nods at kanao’s ‘tokyo’ that falls out rather indistinct, shrouded with the palpable nervousness that envelopes her. even he feels it rubbing at his edges with her sitting right across him, and how it slowly transmutes into sorrow, now that she’s over the initial concern of putting out the announcement. it’s indication enough she isn’t exactly glad about this either. he knows this isn’t her fault. it isn’t anyone’s to begin with. but he can’t help but feel bitter. he can’t help but refuse to talk to her furthermore. though he isn’t exactly angry at her, eita can’t help but not say anything to her. so he only nods.

he allows a blank expression sit on his face as he swigs the hot chocolate he ordered for himself at the cafe she invited him to. it scalds his tongue, but the heat running across his epithelium doesn’t incite a reflex on his end. his mind has been anesthetized by her words, clueless he’s consuming something well above room temperature. the burn spreads through his tongue, scragging the surface cells, but that doesn’t seem to bother him much. or at all.

kanao looks at him with expectant eyes, nails practically digging into the metal of her strap at this point, and if she were to continue for a while longer, the force would be heavy enough to leave a few dents behind. she wants eita to say something in response. she knows her announcement was something he definitely didn’t see coming, and she knows it’s rather heartless to expect him to be lively about it, but his silence isn’t helping her either. it’s only making her heart flip in a burning anxiety.

he recognizes the expression in her eyes. they’re lined with tear drops ready to descend any time now. “mhm.” eita hums as a response, because really, the numbness is strangling his thoughts and his words, and as much as he wants to say something, he’s too upset to. but he doesn’t want to leave her barren without a response either. he doesn’t want her to think he hates her for this. because he doesn’t.

the urge to walk out without exchanging words is so so strong that he pushes his cup of hot chocolate across the table towards her, almost stepping out of his seat. but he pauses midway when kanao’s fingers abandon the metal strap and proceed to touch his knuckles in order to stop him, when she realises what he’s about to do.

takechi didn’t show up despite kanao’s invitation to him. he has better things to do, or so he told her when she asked him why he wouldn’t join them. kanao intended for him to be there because she knew eita wouldn’t take the news smoothly. with no damage control in place, his world seems to crumble down even faster, and the rubble tumbles somewhere far off, spurning the opportunity for him to keep it together.

by no means does the slurry of emotions clogging his throat stem from the loss of love. the love in question was never found to begin with. eita never confessed to kanao. he never told her or anyone else that he liked her. he never tried finding out if what he felt was anything more than just a crush. love was indeed a stretch, something too far to leap into, but whatever he felt was never vocalized. takechi had some idea, but that’s all there was to it.

whatever he’s feeling, he thinks, precipitates due to the potential loss of someone who understood him. before eita found out about his feelings for kanao, she was a good friend to him. developing a crush didn’t change that either. even if their friendship was just a matter of an year or so, she managed to offer him some of his best memories. she managed to understand him better than most people around him. and sure, takechi is a good friend as well, but eita always thought he fit in better with kanao. like two neighboring pieces of the same puzzle that complete it. like the morning coffee his father has with some buttered toast. like eita and kanao themselves, who were inseparable once they became friends about an year ago.

“say something, eita.” kanao pleads, cold fingers pressing against his skin to extract a response, scuttling through her words to him.

she didn’t expect eita to be happy about this of course. but she didn’t expect him to be as speechless and crestfallen as he is either. she’s only a friend to him after all. he will eventually find a new one. everybody makes new friends and loses some from time to time. if she was someone more than just a friend, if there was something more between the two of them, things would’ve been different.

the thing is, kanao really really likes eita. she likes him more than just a friend. for her, the boundary between platonic feelings and romantic ones blurred long ago. but she’s quite sure he doesn’t look at her the same way and he never will. she will never mean anything more to him than just a friend. this much, she surmised on her own terms without ever asking him about it.

as she looks at him resting on the chair across her with a bland expression glazing his otherwise smiling face, the one last thing she wants from his end is a response worthy of all the love she has offered him as a friend, to put her own aching heart to ease.

but he walks out of the cafe, leaving behind the paper cup holding his choice of preferred drink, leaving behind kanao who only expected a few words from his side to comfort herself, leaving behind two broken hearts on the table in a random cafe at half past three on a balmy summer afternoon. her words echo in the air as fresh as ever, even as he walks off, and while she looks at him from her seat, fingers digging into the leather of her bag in an attempt to suppress the cry that irks at her throat, she knows this is probably the last time she’s seeing him. she knows he won’t be around as much as he used to be. she knows over the span of next month or so, she’s scheduled to buckle up for a course to learn how to cope with his absence.

however, there is one thing kanao can be sure of without a doubt, and it’s the only thing that’s partly putting her at ease right now. semi eita doesn’t hate her. he might resent the circumstances. he might pretend like he doesn’t care about her absence. he might not talk to her. but of all the people in the world, her friend, eita will never hate her for something that isn’t her fault to begin with.

on the day she leaves for tokyo, and leaves eita behind with his broken heart trying to hold in the feelings without letting them spill, she says to him, lightly holding his hands in hers, right in front of the house that he’s convinced is cursed, not haunted, but cursed for sure, “we’ll see each other again.”

she fabricates her lips to curl into a vague smile that’s ninety percent fake and ten percent an attempt to reassure him, an attempt to pencil in a smile on his face as well. eita hasn’t talked to her in a month at all, and if this is the last time she’s seeing him eye to eye, she wants to listen to him talk, even if it’s just a line or two.

she expects a response from him. while she’s trying her best to reassure him, she needs something from his end as a token of reassurance as well. something she can hold onto in osaka while she’s alone in midst of new people. bereft with a broken heart of full of feelings for a boy she was never able to confess her affection to.

but eita, just like a month ago, doesn’t respond. not even with a hum. words are a far cry. but he nods at her just like he did in the cafe over two cups of belgian hot chocolate and two broken hearts tossed across the table.

“we’ll keep in touch.” she pats his knuckles, pursing her lips, stretching them furthermore in an attempt to enhance her fake smile. but even with that, eita has nothing to say to her. instead, he wiggles his palms, urging her to let go. his reluctance towards her dulls her smile that was a stopgap to begin with.

she swiftly takes her hand back and holds it in air to receive a fist bump. she doesn’t expect him to return this gesture either, but eita pushes his closed fist against hers. soft like a pellet of cotton tending to her wounds. his touch stings, not because it’s forceful like it usually is, but because the absence of enthusiasm is obvious, and the dullness his souls precipitates into with every passing second is palpable enough.

kanao leaves his sight, jogging to unite with her father who is patiently waiting on her to seal her final goodbye. she hollers him to bend to her level, whispering something in his ear. in response, he hands her the guitar that’s too familiar to eita. she takes careful steps back to him, guitar case hanging in her left hand, only making him wonder more and more about what she’s upto. now that they’ve said goodbye, he doesn’t think she needs to come back for a do over.

she hands him the guitar, extending the case further away from her, closer to him, voice barely accounting for a whisper, “take it.”

it’s the same guitar she displayed last year when she chose to open up about her hobby. the same guitar that acted as an inspiration for him to pursue music. the same one that catalyzed the intimacy between the two of them. the same one he learnt to tune his first song on. the same one that made him confirm his feelings for kanao.

as much as he wants to keep it as a reminder of what could’ve been or what was, eita declines, lightly pushing the case away. he knows this isn’t right. no matter how close they were as friends, accepting her guitar as a gift isn’t something he feels worthy of. but more than morals, it’s financial to him. a parting gift would be great compensation from her end, but accepting something so expensive doesn’t seem right when he has nothing to offer himself.

“take it.” she repeats, a little louder this time, pushing the case in his direction, requesting him, “please.”

despite eita’s repudiation, her otosan insists on letting eita have her old guitar, informing him that she has a new one waiting for her at their place in osaka. now, with a gift so expensive sitting in his trembling hands, he thinks it’s only right to respond to her. so far, his emotions have been resisting him from talking to her, believing he might break down if he were to do so, but now with her guitar case bereft in his hand, eita promises, “hey, kanao, i’ll make sure to learn a lot of new songs.”

his voice echoing in her earshot restores a small, soft smile back on her lips, and eita continues, clutching the handle of the case tighter, fingers curling in until the metal leaves a mark on his skin, gulping down the stutter waiting to fall out in order to sound perfectly audible, “so when we meet again, we can play music together.”

the smile etched into her lips spreads apart, and for the first time in the last few days, her curving lips aren’t drenched in deception, and they don’t drip in the pity she’s harboring for herself. hearing eita’s voice clearly for the first time in a month, listening to him addressing herself makes her the happiest she has been since her father broke the news to her.

kanao leaves miyagi. eita stops talking much. the people around him fail to notice the lack of words from him. he was never a talker to begin with, but her absence restricts him furthermore, and he feels it strongly, while everyone around him moves on with their lives, thinking he has always been like that. silent and reserved.

she texts him from tokyo, rambling about her new classmates, and about her she fear of starting conversations because the kids look pretty intimidating. she talks about how tokyo is different from miyagi but all the same, all at once. eita tells her about the new music he learns to play on the guitar she left behind. though he wants to tell her he misses her, that text never goes through, the fear of making things awkward separates his finger from the send button just as quickly as the text was written.

the smile on his face dulls, and whenever okaasan tells him something nice, his lips only extend a millimeter or two at most. the sound of his voice becomes inaudible as ever, and obaasan has the toughest time talking to him, the capacity of her ears withering at the toll of her age. eita, who always laughs at even the stupidest of jokes that takechi spews, stops that. now, only a vague chuckle leaves the space between his lips in response to those.

sometime during winter, the texts from kanao’s end hit a sudden stop. the last she texts him is right before christmas, describing the decorations the city has put up for the occasion. her vibrant texts describing a jolly, red and white osaka are followed by nothing. nothing in terms of content, but everything in terms of emotions, all at once, like the lasting beep of a vitals monitor at a hospital belonging to someone who just died. like the monitor belongs to eita himself. kanao’s promise ends up as a group of empty words. and e m p t y, is exactly what eita feels over the next few months.

somewhere in a small neighborhood in miyagi, where everyone knows each other and rumors spread faster than butter on a slice of bread, the friendship that once blossomed under warm summer skies, quickly withers under the heat of the same sun, succumbing under the pressure of distance.

kanao’s departure breaks eita’s heart.

#haikyuu fanfiction #haikyuu x reader #haikyuu x y/n #haikyuu x you #haikyuu fluff #haikyuu angst #haikyuu #haikyuu anime #haikyuu manga #haikyuu fic #haikyuu headcanons #semi eita #semi x y/n #semi x you #semi x reader #hq semi #shiratorizawa

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icequeenbae · 3 months

Text

Boy Next Door (m) Ch.2 | BBH

Pairing: Baekhyun x Reader

Neighbor AU, slow burn, hurt/comfort, fluff, smut

Warnings: Baek being the neighbor we’re all dreaming of, harassment (nothing graphic), a bit of body image/ insecurity, MC sucks at relationships, explicit content, unprotected sex

Word Count: ~18.5k (total), 5k (pt.2)

Summary: Your neighbor Baekhyun has been a pleasant acquaintance since you moved into your current apartment almost a year ago. Could he also be… a perfect match?

Chapter Masterlist [ongoing]: Pt. 1 > Pt. 2 > Pt. 3 > Pt. 4 (fin)

Author’s note: Okay, I am slightly late to throw this party since the follower count has hit 800 a while ago... BUT NOW IT'S HERE!!! 💜💜💜 And be ready for a bumpy ride with this one. All goes under the cut as it starts off with smut hehe

As usual I'd like to remind you that the more active you guys are, the more motivation I have to update frequently. I'm easy to reach through my asks and I check all of your comments and reblogs~ In any case, I hope you like the first half of this story (just 2 parts ahead!) 💫

Network Tags: @bbh-net @k-vanity @ksmutsociety

Baekhyun’s grip on your waist was tight.

It felt secure and confident enough, so worries about him having to hold you up were long gone from your head. Your usual shyness seemed to have dissipated, and in its place came utter shamelessness.

‘Fuck, Baekhyun-’

Your high-pitched moan made him grunt. He wasn’t very talkative of a lover, but he was invested in making you come. The two of you barely made it into the apartment, starting out at the front door and only just stumbling into the hallway. Where he had you against the wall now.

‘Please don’t stop…’ You begged, finding his grown-out hair to tug on.

Baekhyun’s hips jerked forward, nailing you into the wall, and he groaned into your neck. Barely able to hold on to his shoulders, you swayed your own pelvis to meet his thrusts. Your breathing was ragged, and the deep, messy thrusts had you both on the brink of orgasm.

‘Ooh, Baekhyun, I’m- Amph!’

Your loud wail broke into reality and woke you up.

Later that day you were telling your best friend all about your miserable existence.

‘I hate my life, Yu…’, you whined into the phone.

‘That’s understandable.’

‘Yuki!’

‘Don’t ‘Yuki’ me, I still can’t believe you didn’t drop your panties for that hot neighbor of yours.’ She huffed in the middle of lecturing you. ‘Your subconscious is doing well, showing you what could’ve been.’

‘We barely ever hung out! I couldn’t exactly jump him.’

‘You’re neighbors! Who cares about the ‘three dates’ rule? He’s been to your get-together, you’ve been at his place… eating ice cream.’ You could hear the eye roll.

‘So? That doesn’t mean we’re dating.’

‘Dating-shmating. Didn’t you just mention that you’re horny as fuck for Baekhyun?’

‘So what? I don’t even know what he thinks of me. What if he has a girlfriend?’

Your friend’s laughter filled your ears.

‘He literally cornered you at the door and told you to come back whenever you craved for your favorite ice cream flavor. If that’s not saying, ‘Let’s fuck, Y/N,’ I don’t know what is. I’m actually willing to give him extra points for this. That’s the type of smooth that you need.’

‘I need?’

‘Yep. You’re pretty gentle, you know? He probably got that when he invited you to his house, and you raided his fridge instead of his bedroom.’

She was always in your face about being too slow to open up. You’d had this conversation before, and her stance on it was unyielding – you needed to have a steady male presence in your life to gain confidence for a healthy relationship in the future. But you didn’t think you were made for such arrangements; you were quite conservative about dating.

‘He wasn’t inviting me for sex. There wasn’t anything suggestive of that!’ You countered, not sounding particularly confident.

‘You mean he didn’t make any physical contact all night? Well, that’s not solid-’

‘He did, but it was-’

‘Wait, what?? He did?!’

‘It was nothing!’ You quickly took it back, slapping yourself on the lips.

‘You know what? You don’t even have to tell me. I already know that he wants you, and you want him. I also know you’ll continue dragging it out instead of having sex with the gorgeous boy next door.’

‘That’s actually another reason why I’m reluctant. What if Baekhyun’s not into me? Or in a relationship already? Or what if it ends the usual way? We aren’t just neighbors; we’re the only people on our floor. How awkward would that be?’

Your bestie sighed, probably remembering your past relationships. She, of all people, knew precisely the terms you broke up on and how stressed you were about crossing paths with any of your exes again.

‘It does have the potential to be awkward,’ Yuki pointed out. ‘But also… can you imagine how fun it’s gonna be? You’re always grumpy about having no time for dates and stuff. But you live like 5 seconds away from each other. The universe has outdone itself, you ungrateful woman!’

She fell silent after your huff, and you called out her name to make sure she was still on the line.

‘Sorry,’ she said, not a tiny bit embarrassed. ‘I just imagined having Hoseokie as my neighbor. My body is jealous of you, Y/N. The amount of sex you could be having!’

‘Ugh. I haven’t gotten laid in eternity, yet you keep talking about sex.’

‘Sex is great, you should try it. I can’t even remember what you were like when you had it.’

‘Just as grumpy as now,’ you grumbled. ‘Don’t even count on that making me any more sociable. Once a homebody, always a homebody!’

‘Oh well, at least I’d be happy knowing your body is socializing plenty with your clothes off.’

‘Why would you think about me with my clothes off…’ You gasped.

‘Yah!’

‘I’m hanging up.’ You announced, pressing the red button.

It was your fault for telling your friend about your love struggles. You knew how she was, and you still asked for her opinion.

She texted you immediately after you had one-sidedly ended the call.

Ki-yaah | Rude

Ki-yaah | At least invite the hottie for dinner. Reciprocate his gesture, if you know what I mean

Ki-yaah | But this time don’t wear sweats!! Wear a dress! Something simple

Ki-yaah | And easy to remove;)

You | You are…

Ki-yaah | Helpful?

You | That’s not what I was gonna say, but let’s go with that…

Ki-yaah | So you will??

You | Maybe…

Ki-yaah | Gosh, why are you so resistant!?

You | Idk ㅠㅠ Stop yelling at me ㅠㅠ

Ki-yaah | If you’re really not feeling this guy it’s fine, don’t listen to me~

You | I’m scared of the opposite, Yu… I think I’m starting to ‘feel him’ way too quickly. He’s been friendly once or twice, what if I’m overreacting?

You | It’d look pretty pathetic if I made moves on him, and he didn’t even have any of that in mind…

Ki-yaah | You’re way too hard on yourself, girl. And you still cannot tell when a guy is genuinely interested in you…

Ki-yaah | Remember that party… I was drunk, but even I noticed the way he was looking at you!

You | Exactly, you were drunk! He was probably trying to memorize what I looked like, nothing more

Ki-yaah | Yeah right. Cause when a guy can’t keep his eyes off of you, it’s just him memorizing your features for a composite sketch in case you break the law

You | Stop rolling your eyes

Ki-yaah | I’m glad you noticed!!

Ki-yaah | I wish you noticed men giving you the eyes more often than you notice my eyerolls!

Ki-yaah | Just do it your way. Invite him for a snack, wear something moderately nice, be a tiny bit suggestive and see where he takes this

Ki-yaah | Also keep your counter clear, what if the sparks start flying in the kitchen? Some men get turned on by women cooking, you know? And since you’re a great cook, you might just get your answers quick and efficient~

You | If I could hang up on this chat…

Ki-yaah | Did you write this down?

You | Bye ><

Even if that could be considered decent advice, you still couldn’t muster up the courage to take initiative like this. So all that was left for you was to wait until some random occasion, pleasant or otherwise, brought you together again.

***

It was late.

It was way too late for you to be out, especially grabbing snacks in the supermarket. But you just couldn’t bring yourself to go to bed. You’d been too anxious from overthinking everything in your life recently, from your professional worth to relationships. Getting lost in reflection, you realized you desired someone’s attention and affection. You wanted someone to be close with, not just physically but also emotionally. Intimately. It wasn’t about simply being bored or lonely – any of your friends was a phone call away in cases like that. What you needed was different, and it was something that wasn’t available to you at this time, or, perhaps, ever. So, you decided that a quick run to the nearest store for something to munch on was a great idea.

Spoiler alert – it was not.

‘Damn, why did I buy so many chocolates?’ You puffed into your mask, frustrated with yourself.

Having a sweet tooth came with consequences, and you were really trying to watch your weight since you’d been stress eating for weeks (months?) due to your work-related and other problems. Now was the time to get your diet back to normal, not to maintain the harmful habits.

‘I shall bring those to work if I don’t want to eat all of them myself,’ you thought to yourself, using your code to walk onto the territory of your apartment complex. You were almost home since, thankfully, the supermarket was only a few minutes’ walk away.

The concierge was away, which you noted since you’d usually greet him whenever you came back. You simply headed towards the elevator this time, still consumed by your thoughts. Before you could get close enough to press the button, someone grabbed your wrist, startling you.

‘Excuse me!’

Turning around, you faced the stranger, who decided to stop you in your tracks so unexpectedly.

‘Yes?’

He stared back at you, and you at him. Did you know this guy? Was he new in your building? It was relatively new, so many people were moving in these days. You did, not too long ago. But he didn’t look familiar. Or trustworthy, for that matter.

‘Can I... help you?’

Moving your shoulder back you tried to break free from his hold, but didn’t succeed. This was strange.

‘You’re pretty,’ he suddenly said matter-of-factly. ‘Can I have your number?’

At this point the encounter had become creepy. You went out wearing non-flashy clothes, zero makeup and a mask. How could he even tell whether you were pretty or not? The fact that he was still physically holding you in place escalated the situation.

‘What?’ Dumbfounded, you blinked at him.

‘You’re pretty. Exotic. Give me your number, we can chat.’

Ah, that. You hadn’t been called exotic in a while, and you realized what type of guy that he was.

‘Please let go of me. Kindly.’ You asked, looking around to see if there were any security cameras pointed in your direction.

‘Give me your number first,’ he argued with a strained smile.

The contact became even more unwelcome.

‘Let go,’ you repeated firmly, jerking your arm even though your wrist began to hurt.

‘Oh, come on. I just want your number; I’m not asking for your apartment passcode! Don’t be difficult.’

You were being difficult? This guy would piss you off if he wasn’t getting scarily persistent.

‘I said, let me-’

‘What’s going on?’ A familiar voice, an octave lower than usual, rumbled from behind you.

Turning back, you realized the elevator doors were open, and your neighbor walked through those in long, determined strides.

‘Is there something you want?’ Baekhyun grabbed onto the man’s wrist. ‘Hands off.’

‘Hey, I’m just asking for some contacts, chill.’

The atmosphere seemed to get even thicker with danger. He wasn’t letting go of you, and Baekhyun seemed like he wouldn’t let it fly.

‘You followed her here in the middle of the night, trespassing, by the way, to ask for her number?’

‘What, I can’t be friendly to a nice girl?’

Baekhyun suddenly moved, tapping the intruder on the throat with his palm and using the brief daze of his opponent to unclasp his fingers from you and twist his arm behind his back. Pushing his face to the wall harshly, Baekhyun held him there for a few moments.

‘Let go of me! You’re gonna break my arm, you psycho!’

Your neighbor didn’t seem fazed by the screams.

‘Listen carefully, you fucking punk. I’ll give you ten seconds to make yourself scarce before I alert the police. And if you ever see her again – run the other way. You’ll experience more than a broken arm if you lay a hand on her, you got me?’

The guy only yelped, swearing and begging for mercy at the same time.

‘Do we have an understanding?’ Baekhyun pressed before letting him go.

‘Ye-yes! You’re crazy!’

As soon as he was left alone, your attacker stumbled towards the door and quickly ran out of your building, still holding onto his arm pathetically. Meanwhile, your vision was entirely blurred out, eyes only focused on the broad back in front of you. You were surprised when Baekhyun turned around and slowly walked towards you, looking into your eyes inquisitively.

‘Y/N-ah, are you okay?’ He asked in a much softer voice. ‘Are you hurt?’

His hand touched your reddened wrist gently, and you shuddered.

‘N-no. I’m okay. Th-thank you.’

Baekhyun’s eyes searched your face for clues and seemed to have found some. He took another careful step towards you and cautiously wrapped his arms around you. The action was much needed, and you were glad he did it. His hold made you feel grounded and secure, and you were clinging to him instinctively, searching for comfort.

‘It’s alright. He probably scared you a lot,’ he murmured, voice soothing. ‘But you’re safe now. I’m here.’

Belatedly, you realized that you were sniffling quietly into his chest the entire time, grabbing a handful of his shirt.

‘I’m sorry,’ you whispered, pulling away. ‘I didn’t mean to cause you-’

‘Y/N,’ he instantly cut you off. ‘You didn’t cause anything. But preferably don’t walk around this late all alone.’

Baekhyun cupped your face and wiped your tears with his thumbs.

‘I live just next door. Tell me if you need company, or if anyone bothers you again.’

He paused to look down and bent forward to pick something from the floor. The plastic bag from the store that you dropped during the struggle.

‘Let’s get you home now,’ he hummed, guiding you to the elevator.

‘But-’

‘Don’t worry. I’ll take care of everything.’

Baekhyun delivered you onto your doorstep in silence.

‘Do you have ice to put on your wrist for bruising?’ He inquired, and you nodded timidly.

Not that you weren’t thankful, you were just still a bit shocked, and embarrassed too.

‘Y/N-ie,’ Baekhyun suddenly patted you on the head like a little girl. ‘Are you sure you’re gonna be okay?’

‘Y-yeah. I just need to… I just need a moment.’

He nodded for you to press your passcode in, and held the door for you before giving the bag with your snacks back.

‘Text me if you need anything,’ he stressed. ‘Okay?’

‘Mhm.’ You simply nodded.

You couldn’t exactly say that he was what you needed right now.

‘See you, Y/N-ah.’

***

The incident greatly impacted your (usually) pretty peaceful life. And it actually pushed you towards interacting with Baekhyun much more often – from the occasional small talk whenever you ran into each other, to the actual… hangouts? You swiftly went from acquaintances to friends.

In the span of a few weeks, you became a frequent guest at his home. One could even say that the negative experience turned out to be the catalyst of your relationship. You’d grown much closer afterwards. So comfortable with each other, that you found yourself in his living room in front of the TV every other day.

‘Yah, why didn’t you pause while I was on the phone? I can’t trust you to give me the short version, you take longer than if we actually rewatch it!’

‘What? I can be pretty laconic if I need to!’ You threw a carrot slice at him.

You had so much popcorn lately that a healthier equivalent was more than necessary.

‘What’s this, a bunny attack?’ Baekhyun threw it in his mouth and crunched on it. ‘Get back to where I left off.’

‘Alright, oppa.’

He drove you crazy with his bossiness sometimes.

‘That’s right. Respect your elders,’ he teased.

‘Why do I put up with this…’ Rewinding the episode, you scratched the fluffy head in your lap. ‘Mongryong-ah, I only endure this for you!’

Baekhyun looked down at his corgi.

‘Wah, living your best life, aren’t you, old man?’

‘You didn’t have to mention his age! You’re still adorable, Ryongie,’ you stroked the dog’s back.

‘He likes you too much,’ Baekhyun noted. ‘This grandpa usually isn’t this mellow with strangers.’

‘I’m not a stranger!’

‘With new people,’ he corrected, laughing at your exasperation.

‘I like him too. It’s mutual,’ you hugged the corgi, stretching his long body along yours, and rubbed his belly.

‘Wow. Literally a pile of mush, disgusting.’ Baekhyun said, looking at his happy dog.

‘You’re just jealous ‘cause he’s never this cute with you.’

‘Or I’m jealous ‘cause I want a belly rub too,’ he retorted, finally pressing play.

‘All you have to do is ask,’ you thought.

Unfortunately for you, Mongryong actually lived with Baekhyun’s parents, so you couldn’t use him as an excuse to come over that often. Even though your neighbor was diligently informing you about his pet’s visits. You really should’ve read between the lines, but even if you realized he did like you… It wouldn’t have changed much. You were just not the type to make the first move, so you just went with the flow. And if there was no opening for you to spend time with Baekhyun, you just… didn’t.

But the universe had its own ways of pushing you.

‘Why isn’t it working?’ You grumbled, pressing the numbers on your keypad lock. ‘Please, don’t tell me…’

An odd thought had crossed your mind. You hadn’t changed your batteries since you’d moved in, so what if those had completely drained? Today, of all days! When you went out to buy some cereal and ended up running home from the store under pouring rain?

‘No, dammit!’ You cursed under your breath.

‘Trouble with your lock?’ The voice from behind made you jump.

‘Oh god, when did you get here?’

‘Just now,’ Baekhyun hummed. ‘You look stressed. Are you locked out?’

‘Yeah. The battery died… Very timely. What do I do…’

‘You need a 9V.’

‘A what?’

‘A 9V square battery,’ Baekhyun laughed. ‘Which, I assume, you don’t have.’

You stared at him blankly, looking absolutely clueless.

‘Come here,’ he grabbed your wrist and led you to his door. ‘I’ll go to the store and get you one. But you need to change, or you’re bound to get sick.’

It wasn’t like you would say no – you were shivering already.

‘Here, you can wear this for the time being. And a towel,’ he handed you a small pile as soon as he left his bedroom. ‘Use a hairdryer for your hair.’

‘You really don’t need to-’

‘Go, you’re freezing. I’ll make a quick run to the store and back, and you warm up in the shower.’

‘Thank you,’ you managed to say while he was nudging you into the bathroom.

You locked the door behind yourself just to be sure, although you trusted that Baekhyun wouldn’t try anything. Still, taking a shower at his place was kinda intimate… and exciting. Maybe because it was the first time you’d ever done it in another man’s home?

‘Get ahold of yourself, Y/N-ssi,’ you told your reflection in the mirror.

The color in your cheeks seemed too bright. Taking your clothes off was strangely a big deal, so you hurried up and jumped into the shower quickly. Your body welcomed the warmth, so you spent at least ten blissful minutes under the hot water. Baekhyun’s wash smelled nice, and you stood there for a few minutes, thinking about how familiar the scent was. You’d seen him fresh out of the shower, so you knew this smell even though it was less concentrated on him. And now you had it all over yourself.

‘Stop wasting someone else’s water,’ you scolded yourself for your dreaminess and finished your routine quickly.

The thought of you smelling exactly like Baekhyun made you squirm. Were you a pervert? This shouldn’t have been this thrilling. Continuing to scold yourself, you got dressed.

‘Gosh, this shirt is long,’ you mused, trying to see the fit in the mirror. It reached your mid-thigh and was the best Baekhyun could offer of his own oversized clothes. You daydreamed for another minute about how broad and chic his shoulders must look in clothes like these.

‘I really do need to get a grip.’

Another ten minutes later, you finally stepped out of the bathroom. You found Baekhyun in the kitchen, moving stuff around on the counter. Certainly, with how long you’d been in the shower… he was back already.

‘Oh, Y/N, you’re done already?’ He asked as soon as he spotted you. ‘Sit down, I’m making you some mint tea.’

Mint tea was actually something that you brought into his life. Baekhyun wasn’t into tea – like almost any Korean, he preferred coffee. But once you’d introduced some variation into his beverage selection during one of your visits, he grew to appreciate the new flavors.

Instead of taking a seat, you came closer to see how he was brewing his tea. Baekhyun was very focused, and you couldn’t help but smile.

‘You didn’t have to do this,’ you murmured, sounding softer than you expected.

He looked down at you, eyes wandering around your face for a few seconds before reaching your mouth.

‘It’s no problem. I don’t want you to get sick,’ he said, turning away and licking his lips. ‘Here.’

You accepted the cup from his hands and took a sip.

‘Oh, that’s good! Thanks!’

Baekhyun nodded, watching you have more.

‘Did you get the V.. battery thing?’

‘Oh, about that… They didn’t have any. But don’t worry, I ordered express delivery online, should take a couple hours tops.’

Catching your uncertain expression, he suggested moving to the living room.

‘We can watch something or just chill.’

Although you agreed, you knew there was no way to pay attention to anything on the screen. You were acutely aware of the fact that you were in Baekhyun’s home, wearing his clothes, smelling of his shower gel, and sitting on his sofa. And the person responsible for your unstable control over your feelings was slowly catching up.

‘You sure you’re okay, Y/N-ah?’ He asked, leaning in to touch your forehead. ‘You seem a bit distracted and quiet.’

‘No. I mean, yes. I mean- I’m fine,’ you blurted out too quickly.

He stayed close, examining your face in great detail.

‘Your cheeks are red,’ he said, making you hold your breath. ‘And you’re pretty without makeup. As usual.’

You swallowed, afraid that your voice could betray you if you answered. His lips parted as soon as his eyes fell on your mouth again.

‘You’re always pretty,’ he said, distracted by your lips.

Without realizing it, you cocked your head slightly to the side, inviting him to kiss you. He was slowly getting closer, and your mind blacked out for a second.

When the lights in your head turned back on, you were full-on making out. It started slow initially, then it led to you two viciously attacking each other’s lips. Just the sound of your kissing made you shiver, and the pleasant tickle of butterflies in your belly accompanied this madness. You hadn’t experienced it for so long, it seemed new, and strong, and addictive.

Baekhyun didn’t waste any time, hands wrapping around your unsuspecting form to hold you against him. You gasped for air, but that was a short-lived pause. His tongue slid between your lips mischievously, and you could only grunt. You’d be down for anything he suggested right now. It was hard to tell how much time had passed while you were kissing, but you relished every second of it. His warmth, his skill, his gentle touch… He was way too perfect, and there was no way you could stop at your own volition.

But the doorbell disrupted your craze within a second.

Both of you stared into each other’s eyes, breathing heavily before he finally moved to get off of you. Sitting up, you tugged at the hem of your shirt, unable to recall just when he got on top of you. Not that you minded, anyway.

‘Ah, why did I order express delivery…’ Baekhyun muttered frustratedly, closing his eyes. ‘Give me a minute. No, twenty seconds.’

Nodding, you chuckled at his impatience. You felt exactly the same – eager to pick up where you left off. Although you weren’t the type of girl who’d give in to her desires easily, you’d been tiptoeing around your devilishly handsome neighbor for way too long. What happened just moments prior was solid proof of how weak you were for him. It was the first time ever you dove into a makeout session so fanatically that your memory was spotty afterward.

But the worries suddenly replaced your giddiness. What if he thought… that you were into that sort of thing? What if he now believed that you casually came into men’s houses and jumped them like a hungry lioness? Was it too needy of you?

‘What the hell are you doing here?’

The undertone of Baekhyun’s voice instantly got your attention. He wasn’t pleased to see whoever it was at his door. Could there be any trouble with the delivery?

‘Aw, and I was under the impression you’ve been missing me like crazy, babe.’ The flirty female voice answered.

Oh no.

Oh hell no.

Did he… have a girlfriend?!

The thought was like a cold shower to your body. Of course. An attractive young man lives in a fancy apartment complex and drives a luxurious car… How could he ever be single?

You were so naive.

And now you were about to get caught.

Springing up from the sofa, you darted towards the door and then froze. You couldn’t walk out of the living room without being seen. This was a nightmare, your worst nightmare coming to life.

‘I signed off on your delivery for you. Can’t you be grateful for one second, Baekhyunie?’

Her voice seemed closer. She was definitely inside the apartment. Maybe she’d believe your explanation that he was just helping you out? Solely friendly neighbor stuff? Oh gosh, you were totally done for.

‘Just get out.’

‘Why, are you hiding something?’ She asked, a bit less playful this time.

‘No.’

‘Are you sure?’ You could hear her taking a step.

‘Didn’t you hear me? Get out.’

There were a few seconds of silence that made you quiver with anxiety.

‘Is there someone in there, Baekhyun?’ She repeated.

‘Is it any of your business?’ He gritted. ‘Where do you think you’re- yah!’

The noise from the hallway could only mean one thing – she was walking right this way. Your mind couldn’t develop anything slightly useful at that point, so you simply stood there. In front of the sofa where you’d just almost… yeah.

She stormed into the room, pausing when she saw you. She was taller than you and very, very skinny. If you’d ever met her outside, you’d think she was a model. She wore a black ensemble that you could only guess was some hot-ass designer, and her hair was perfectly styled. She didn’t blink her faux eyelashes once while scanning you head to toe.

‘Are you freaking serious?’

The way she scrunched her nose, almost in disgust, made you shift uncomfortably. You’d definitely tell her off for this, if not for the shame you felt for being caught red-handed as ‘the mistress’.

‘Are you serious? Stop walking around like you own the place.’ Baekhyun fired back from behind her.

‘I go to the States for a few months, and then you’re snatched when I return?’ She huffed in disbelief. ‘Or is she paid to come here? Judging by the attire you were saving up. And I wouldn’t wear anything revealing with legs like that.’

Your mouth opened, but before you could even respond, your neighbor grabbed her forearm.

‘You really are delusional. Get out of my house.’

He dragged her back to the door, and she continued to yell at him.

‘Are you kidding me, Baekhyun? I can’t believe you’d kick me out to stay with some hooker!’

He stopped abruptly, turning to face her.

‘My mother taught me not to swear in front of ladies. But I hope you shut your fucking mouth right now. I’m only warning you once.’

He shoved her forward towards the door and cleared his throat.

‘Get your shit and leave. I’ll have a word with our security about how you got in.’

‘Fuck you, Byun. I’ll walk these heels over your balls when you realize you’ve made a huge mistake!’

‘Please, spare me your sick fantasies.’ He rolled his eyes, swinging his door open. ‘Out.’

The door slammed shut as soon as she left, and Baekhyun sighed loudly. He ran his left hand through his hair, still on edge, and pressed a button to turn the display on to see your floor. When she was gone, he sighed again, this time in relief. And you… felt so confused. And ashamed. And humiliated.

When Baekhyun turned around, it struck you on the spot. You couldn’t face him right now. Suddenly you felt small and exposed, and all you wanted was to be alone. So, you rushed back into the room to grab your phone.

‘Y/N-’ He began, walking after you. ‘Wait.’

You avoided his touch as you busted out of the room.

‘Where are you going?’ He asked as you slipped your feet into your wet shoes. ‘Stop.’

His hand caught your elbow, and you shivered as his skin burned yours.

‘Please, don’t follow me. I need to go.’ You asked, facing the door.

‘But-’

‘Baekhyun.’ You pushed.

He didn’t say anything for a moment. You heard shuffling, and then he put something into your palm.

‘You’ll need this.’

The battery.

Masterlist

A/N: Happy (belated) Lunar Year to everyone btw! And also huge thanks to all of you sweethearts who take time to read my stories and leave me long kind messages and comments, I appreciate you so much ❤️❤️❤️

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