#2pm x oc | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

concreteburialplot · 10 months

Text

VIRALITY // 08

08 - Play Along

pairing: noah sebastian x fem!oc / nicholas ruffilo x fem!oc

word count: 5.3k

masterlist/intro: here | crossposted: ao3

warnings; irritating moody noah lol, angry/jealous nicholas, alcohol, noah teaching how to play pool, creepy guy at bar, implied past SA experiences, physical fight, blood, love triangle a brewin', 18+ ONLY MDNI

a/n: don’t be mean for no reason & let others enjoy things thnx :)

VALLIE

Noah somehow convinced me to drive us to a bar down the street from the warehouse where we were brainstorming with Bryan.

“So, remind me why you couldn’t have just driven here yourself?” I asked, looking over at him in the passenger seat of my rental car.

“I don’t have a car.” He replies flatly.

“You’re a world famous rockstar, and you don’t have a car?”

I hadn’t notice just how tattooed his hands are until I catch them moving up and down his thighs. The small action reminds me of ways I soothe my anxiety, especially in stressful work meetings.

“Not ‘world famous’, nobody even knew who we were til last month.” He’s quick to correct me and his grumpy tone makes it transparent that he’s still annoyed about getting kicked out by Bryan.

“Right.” I reply shortly.

I pull up to the small seedy bar Noah directed me to. It’s nestled within a larger strip of restaurants and shops. The random tiny city we’re in is not nearly as busy as LA and the buildings are all rustic and brick.

I’m not even parked a whole minute before Noah has already slammed his door behind him and headed towards the front door. At this point I should just expect to have to babysit every single grown man in this fucking band.

When I walk into the establishment, I’m smacked in the face by thick cigarette smoke and my face twists in disgust. It’s packed for 2pm on a Tuesday and almost every single patron is accompanied by a lit cigarette. I spot Noah at the bar already, just receiving his first full beer.

“A cosmopolitan please.” The words can’t come out fast enough, I need alcohol more than air itself right now. The bartender nods and starts curating my order.

Noah scoffs, “A cosmopolitan really? Could you get any more pretentious?”

“Oh my god.” I pinch the bridge of my nose. “Could you just shut up for literally like 5 minutes?” Right on cue the bartender places down a stemless martini glass with transparent red liquid. “At least it’s better that some basic ass beer.” I take a long sip of my ice-cold drink and alleviation begins the moment the alcohol meets my tongue.

He finishes the last of his beer and lands it hard on the wooden tabletop. “Fine. Whiskey and Coke please.”

“What is your deal huh, why are we here? What exactly are we doing?” I ask the obvious, finishing my own drink already and gesturing to the bartender for another.

He lifts his new glass, “You’re looking at it, Thornhill.”

My brows immediately scrunch together, “How do you know my last name?”

“You think you’re the only one who does their homework?” He asks ironically. “You do work with us after all.”

Both of our new drinks are halfway gone already with replacements on the way. Getting plastered midday on a Tuesday with my most infuriating client in some hole in the wall California bar was not on my bingo card for the week. But these boys keep surprising me, it’s almost refreshing. Almost.

Noah is quick to get started on the fresh drink in front of him, maybe too fast. The glass hadn’t even hit the table before it was half gone.

The numbing already growing in my fingers reminds me that all I had for breakfast was a green juice. Noah’s eyes travel over the bar and land on something across the room then back on me. His eyes are mischievous and playful, “You know how to play pool?” His lips spread into a competitive smirk.

I raise my brows at him. The man that was just 30 minutes ago arguing with me about music video lighting now wants to play pool?

“You want to play pool… right now?”

He laughs, which makes me realize I’d never heard him laugh. It’s nice. If I wasn’t already so exhausted by his bullshit already, it might’ve even made me smile.

“So, you don’t know how to play is what you’re telling me.” He slips off the stool and grabs my arm dragging me off my own.

“Hey, hey!” I smack his hand off my burgundy blazer, “This is designer, I’d appreciate it if you didn’t get your bourbon-y fingers all over it.”

His eyes roll so hard I think they might fall out. “Oh, so sorry princess.” He raised his hands up in defense. “Wouldn’t want to get your Prada dirty.”

While derogatory, the nickname makes my cheeks heat up but I’m not quite sure why. “It’s YSL actually.” I correct him, not that it matters but I guess when you pay almost $4000 for a jacket, it seems like it matters.

“See? Pretentious.” He points at me before going over to the table to set up the game.

I brought our drinks and my bag over to a wooden chair just behind the tables so I could keep a close eye on them. I decide that between the weak airflow in the bar and the sticky surfaces that it would be best to shed the jacket. I slip it off my arms and immediately remember that the blazer was essential to the look, since I only have a black lace corset underneath. But with the 4? 5? drinks I’ve had, I don’t care right now.

“Okay so since you don’t know how to-” Noah turns to look at me and seems to forget his words, he just blinks at me with a deer-in-headlights look.

I step closer to him, “Ya know, it’s not polite to stare.” I say in a hushed tone and poke his pointy nose. Whether or not he is actually looking at me like that, doesn’t matter, my confidence is boosted regardless. Surviving in an industry like the one we’re means walking a fine line between power and control. Men are easy to control when you know how to use assets correctly. And right now, he’s looking at the assets on my lace-covered chest.

“What were you saying again?” I ask, putting my weight on my palms at the edge of the table and leaning forward.

He clears his throat and diverts his eyes away from my cleavage. He directs me to a triangle filled with variously colored balls, some solid, some striped and all with numbers on them. “So basically, you want to get all your designated balls into the holes.” He hands me a long stick, “This is a cue, this is what you’ll use.”

“Got it.”

He perks up a brow above an eye, “You’ve really never played before?”

“Nope.” I take a sip of my potent drink without breaking eye contact with him. “Never thought I’d like it. I’ve watched exes play though. Seemed lame.” I say, sounding more apathetic than I actually am.

“Alright well,” He tugs at the hem of his long band shirt, “You might like it.” He knocks back the last of his drink and holds out a hand to me, “You want a refill?”

I drink the last bit of my own, letting the ice slide down the glass and sit on my numbing lips for just a second before handing it to him. “Please, thank you.”

The minute he leaves me, I become very aware that I’m the only female in the dark bar and every set of eyes is on me. I cross my arms over my chest and retract into myself.

Not long after Noah returns, we start playing. He explained how he “broke” the triangle and he ended up being solids which meant that I’m stripes. After a very bad attempt at hitting a ball, he decided I wasn’t doing well.

“No, no, no.” He waves me off before my stick touches the white cue ball. “Here, I can help.” He rounds the table and stands behind me. I obviously knew he was taller than me, but it isn’t until just now that I realize just how much taller he is than me – the top of my head barely meets his shoulders. And the boots I’m wearing have heels, making me even taller than normal. His sizeable hand runs down my spine and hooks it around my hip to readjust my position. His other arm goes to help adjust my arm that’s holding the stick. I can’t tell if it’s the alcohol, but my skin is burning anywhere he’s touching me and the way his hand engulfs my hip completely sends a buzzing between my legs. His fingertips are mere centimeters away from my core and I am extremely aware of it.

“See, not so bad.” He smiles, pulling away from me and it’s only then that I notice he actually helped me hit the ball.

My eyes linger on him longer than they should’ve. It must be this dim bar lighting and the copious alcohol I’ve had that is making see him through a new filter. His smile meets his eyes and he’s just so…bright. His chocolate eyes are so welcoming and kind, a stark contrast to how harsh and cold they are normally. He’s so much more attractive when he’s not scowling at everything I say.

“What?” He wipes off his mouth with the back of his hand. “Do I have something on my face or something?”

“No, no.” I shake the thoughts from my head. “I just don’t think I’ve ever really seen you smile.” I blurt out stupidly. “It’s pretty.”

He rolls his eyes walking over to the other edge, “Shut up.”

“What?” I ask walking over to where he’s lining up his cue to the ball. His tongue his tightly held in thought between his lips.

The cue ball clashes into a grouping and sends balls flying across the table, some landing in holes. “You’re still on your boyband bullshit.” His voice gained his usual attitude once again with a bit of drunken slur.

“What?” I shake my head, “No, no. I’m not talking about that.” I chase after him around the table. “I mean it.”

Though I should’ve taken the excuse he provided himself as to why I was even paying attention to his smile in the first place.

The long-haired boy holds his cue stick like staff looking at me with an unconvinced look. “Don’t say things you don’t mean, Vallie.” He says in a deep gravelly voice that almost sounds like a threat.

My eyes widen slightly when I look up at him. “I meant it.” I repeat softly, this time with a somewhat intimidated undertone.

He eyes me beneath a skeptical propped brow like I just told him something completely out of the realm of possibility. “Let’s just get back to playing.” He grumbles and walks over to finish off drink.

I let out a breath I didn’t know I was holding. Similar to Nicholas, Noah also has a sort of whiplash duality, just different. I see tiny peeks of a sunshine-y Noah hidden beneath his grouchy storm-cloud persona. It makes me wonder what it would take to see more of the Noah that was just joking and smiling with me.

After another round or two and various refills later, I’m winning. Again.

“How are you winning when you just learned how to play?” Noah asks, pushing himself off the pool table. “Are you conning me or something?” His voice now has a thick, noticeable slur to it, but I don’t think much of it.

I giggle, “No. I just like to win.”

He scoffs playfully and grabs his own glass with my empty one. “You sure you don’t want another?”

I bite down on my thumbnail thinking, but ultimately refuse. “Nah I’m good for now.” I’ve hit the fine line of if I have another, I could get sloppy. Sloppy mixed with what I felt earlier with his hand on my hip could get me in trouble.

He nods and heads to the bar. I pull my phone from where I tucked it in the waistband of skirt and rest against the table as I scroll through emails I’d missed. Suddenly, I feel a presence that definitely isn’t Noah’s. It’s larger, meaner, and darker.

“That your boyfriend with you darlin?” Speaks a low southern accent. His words seem harmless, but I can tell by his tone that he’s not.

My eyes rise to meet him, he towers over me about as tall as Noah maybe an inch or two more. He might be as tall as Noah, but he’s about double his size, wide and muscular. His face is angular and sharp, adorned with middle-aged wrinkles. My gaze glances down to notice that he’s holding two drinks, one that looks like the one I’ve been drinking all day.

I keep an arm around my waist, my phone open facing me and prop a brow at him. “Maybe. What’s it to you?” I neither confirm nor deny out of caution.

“Well, I was thinkin’ you could have a drink with me.” He holds out the similar-looking drink. “The bartender told me you’ve been drinking cosmopolitans.”

I analyze the martini glass within a quarter of a second – the red liquid is dull, murky and the ice is bobbing at the bottom. I’ve lived alone in big cities long enough to know not to take drinks from strange men, especially when they look suspicious. I’ve dated enough men to know what this familiar uneasy feeling in my stomach means. My thumb maneuvers slowly and discreetly to my camera app and hit record. I would send my location to someone, if I had someone to send it to.

I smile politely, “I’m okay but thank you.”

As I predicted his energy shifts and he steps towards me, “Oh c’mon pretty girl, it’s not very nice to refuse a free drink.”

The fear coiling around my spine forces me to fake a laugh, “I’ve really had enough, but thank you.”

He steps even closer backing me into the pool table, the curved wooden corner digs into my lower back. The bar is so busy that nobody is taking notice of what he’s doing.

“I don’t think you heard me, it’s not nice to refuse a free drink.” He says lowly within the small space between us. “We could just play a round of pool and have a good time.”

The walls begin to cave in on me and air is vacating my lungs. I’m paralyzed, panicking and my heart is racing so fast I fear it may tear through my ribcage.

From the moment he was just near me I knew, I just knew.

I always know.

“I’m just not interested, I’m sorry.” The words slip from me quickly and I brace for verbal impact.

He bridges the little gap that’s left between us and sets each drink at each side of my hips, caging me in with my arms wrapped around my body and my phone still recording. “You think you’re better off with that toothpick of a date you have?” He hisses.

Right on cue Noah returns, “What the fuck do you think you’re doing?”

I must’ve really been working off survival muscle memory because I had completely forgotten Noah was with me until just now.

The mystery man pulls back from me with the biggest bullshit smile on his harsh face. “Oh, I was just offerin’ your friend here a drink.” He raises the drink to him.

I chuckle nervously and wave him away, “It’s alright Noah, it’s fine, he was just being nice.” I scratch my arm anxiously. I want the interaction to be over and I’m not expecting Noah to defend me, he barely likes me as a person.

“No Vallie, I saw him.” He sets down his beer and points a finger at him. “You were being fucking creepy.” His drunken voice is rising, and I’m scared that it’s only going to make the situation worse.

The man chuckles at Noah like he’s a puppy barking at mountain lion. “What is this your girlfriend or something?” He asks as though that it’s something he hadn’t already suspected.

Noah briefly glances at me then back at him, “Yes, as a matter a fact she is.” He states assertively but his poker face isn’t that good. I’m surprised that he’s even gone this far to defend me but I’m appreciative.

He laughs even harder, “Oh you really expect me to think a girly twig like you can pull a girl like her?”

Noah doesn’t skip a beat, “You think a meathead asshole like you could pull a woman like her?”

While Noah is scrawny compared to this traditionally “macho man”, I think that was the manliest thing I’ve ever seen a man do for me.

However, it is painfully clear how drunk Noah is by the way he chooses to get in this huge man’s face.

“You’d better fucking watch it, Toothpick.” He growls in his face, then breaks eye contact with Noah to look over at me. “This pathetic joke of a man is your boyfriend?”

Noah doesn’t waver, doesn’t back down with tight fists at his sides but I can’t take it anymore. I may not get along with him, but he doesn’t deserve to be insulted like this on my behalf.

“Yes.” I say confidently with a straightened back, even though it couldn’t be farther from the truth. “Yes, actually, he is. And I’ll prove it.”

I instantly realize that I have no idea how exactly to prove it. So, I go with the first thing I think of within a split second.

I give Noah a brief look that says play along – though, I’m not sure he had enough time to understand the message because when I stand on my tippy toes, take his face in my hands, and land my lips into his, he freezes.

It feels like time freezes too as my eyes flutter closed and I melt into the kiss. Drunk in this shady bar, in this shitty scary situation, right now, it feels like it’s just me and Noah. In this moment, with our lips locked, the bar is quiet, everything is calm, and it feels really fucking good to win at pool. I can’t tell if the swirling in my tummy is from the panic or from something else entirely.

When I finally pull from him, my brows can’t help but furrow together in confusion. He looks back at me with a similar expression – though it’s hard to really decipher any real reactions in his glazed over eyes.

What the fuck was that?

The asshole is visibly over the charade. “What the fuck ever. Maybe next time you shouldn’t let your slut of a girlfriend leave the house looking like a whore.”

Before I even have time to process what he just said, Noah’s fist swings and crashes into Mystery Man’s face.

“Oh my god.” I gasp and bring a hand over to cover my mouth in shock.

It takes a second for the muscular man to react, his hand immediately going to his now bleeding nose. He doesn’t fully realize his condition until he holds out his fingers covered in blood.

His mean eyes then land on Noah like he’s a bullseye target. “You little fucking shit.” The man charges at him and in the blink of an eye, he’s on top of Noah on the ground just pummeling into his face.

“Noah!” I run over to him, not really knowing exactly what I could do.

Luckily, we’d already garnered the attention of the whole bar, so other similar sized patrons were able to pull the man off Noah before he had time to do worse damage. They drag him to the opposite corner of the bar and they fade into the background with my focus now being on Noah.

“Fuck Noah.” I mutter as I land on my knees near his head. “Fuck, fuck, fuck.” I stammer frantically looking around at what I could use to help him. The workers near us must’ve read my mind because they brought over a huge stack of napkins. “Fuck, I’m so sorry.”

He says nothing and flutters his glossy eyes closed when I start to clean him up. He winces when I dab the blood gushing from his nose. “I’m sorry.” I repeat breathlessly, trying my hardest to keep a panic attack away. He flinches a bit when I try to gently wipe his busted lip. “Sorry.” I repeat again, because what else am I supposed to say to someone who just got beaten up because of me. I don’t dare go near his already swollen eye until I get access to some ice… or maybe some frozen peas.

“Should I call Nicholas? Or Jolly?” I ask meekly, folding the napkin within my hands.

Noah groans. “Nicholas.” He brings his hand to his forehead. “Don’t call Jolly. He’ll kill us.”

There’s something about that word in that statement. I can’t explain it, but it seems so much bigger than just Noah and I.

Before he finishes his statement, I’ve already texted Nicholas. I’m surprised at how quickly he responded and even more surprised when he says that he’s not even 5 minutes away.

“Nicholas is here? He said he’s visiting a friend at a tattoo shop in this strip.”

“How convenient.” He grumbles sarcastically and uses his hand to cover his eyes.

When I return my gaze to him, I notice his bloody and bruising knuckles. “Oh my god your hand!” I gasp and take his hand in mine. I urgently steal the condensation off a nearby beer glass to wet a clean napkin and use it to delicately clean each knuckle. An overwhelming sense of guilt fills my chest, and another even worse feeling wraps itself around my throat with thorns. My heartbeat begins thumping so hard I can hear it in my ears and I’m trying my hardest to steady my now trembling hands.

He peeks an eye at me while keeping the other scrunched closed. “Are you okay?” His voice is soft with an inflection reminiscent of concern.

My eyes begin to burn the minute he acknowledges my panic and only makes everything worse. I focus intently on where the napkin is meeting his skin. “Mhm.” I know the moment I open my mouth to speak any semblance of emotional control would disappear. I discreetly attempt to stabilize my breathing so that it might tether me back to earth.

“Hey,” His brows knit together and lifts himself up onto his elbows. I never let go of his hand. His other hand finds my chin and gently redirects my gaze to him. “What’s wrong?”

My eyes fill with tears but immediately screw shut in a last-ditch effort to keep my composure. I rarely cry and even more seldom do I cry in front of others. And here am I, about to cry in front of the person I least want to.

The lump in my throat is painful and I try to swallow it down in an attempt to keep my tears at bay. “I’m fine, just let me keep cleaning you up.” My cracking voice gives away just how close I am to unraveling. A tear escapes me and I’m quick to wipe it off with the back of my hand.

He sternly but gently grasps my wrist to stop me from continuing. “I’m not letting you keep going until you tell me what’s wrong.”

“I don’t know… a panic attack maybe?” A couple more tears escape, and I swiftly wipe them away. “You don’t deserve this, this is all my fault.” My eyes fall back down to his bloody hand in my own. “You look like this, because of me.”

He sits up more, analyzing. I can feel him dissecting me – even though we’re both drunk, it feels like he can see right through me. “I think it’s more than that Val. What’s up?”

That’s the first time I’ve heard my name come out of his mouth without some sort of insult attached to it. It sounds nice. I wouldn’t mind hearing it that way again.

My breathing is slowing down marginally, and I choose to ignore that his touch might have something to do with it. Surely it couldn’t have anything to do with it, right?

I take a deep inhale in preparation to speak without crying. I hold his bruised hand carefully with both of mine. I keep my attention on my thumb that is grazing across the black ink on his fingers. “Um.” I press my lips together and take another breath through my nose. He gives me my time, doesn’t rush or interrupt. “I don’t want to talk about it,” I hear my own voice crack and it feels like I’m somehow betraying myself by crying. “But, it’s not the first time something like…that has happened.” I blink some tears from my eyes and still focus on his hand. My voice is small and quiet, not the way I ever like to hear it. “It’s not even the second or third. And they’ve all been so much worse.” I let out a sad, sobby chuckle. “Which is why me crying about this is so fucking stupid because this was nothing. Worse things happen to people all the time and this was just some guy being a creep and–“

“Hey,” He rests his free hand on top of my own that were fidgeting more than I’d realized. “It wasn’t nothing. It was something. Something worth getting in a fight for. Okay?”

“It just shouldn’t be this upset over something so small.” My voice is not even a whisper. “It’s my fault.”

Weak

Is the only thing that is repeating in my head over and over.

I could’ve gotten myself out of the situation sooner.

I shouldn’t have frozen up.

I should’ve just taken the drink.

It didn’t have to escalate to that point.

I could’ve handled it on my own.

I shouldn’t be crying.

I was weak.

I am weak.

Weak.

He sits up and takes my chin into his fingers, titling my face up to meet his. The growing swelling all over his face only makes me feel worse. “You’re not stupid and it’s not your fault.” I know he’s trying to keep it together for me, but I can tell he’s struggling to form and deliver coherent sentences. “I don’t need to know any of the other instances to know that you were never stupid or that anything was your fault. Okay?”

I nod but it’s not enough for him. “I need to hear it.” The look in his chocolate eyes is one I haven’t seen in him before. Even behind his drunken daze and black eye, his eyes are genuine, kind, and concerned. A warmth blooms in my chest – it reminds me of when you’re running from the rain, and you rush into the safety of your car. That feeling of reaching a warm, safe place, that’s what I feel.

“Okay.” I reply quietly. “Thank you.”

While Noah is mere inches away from my face with his hand on my cheek, I hear a familiar voice. “What the fuck.” States an already irritated Nicholas.

Our eyes snap up at him and Noah instantly pulls away as if he has something to hide. Nicholas’ eyes shift between us, seemingly trying to decide which to address first.

“What the fuck did you do Noah.” His tone is immediately defensive.

Noah sloppily falls back onto the floor. His eyes go back to focusing on the ceiling. With Nicholas here, he looks unimpressed, maybe aggravated – definitely aggravated. For the person he told me to call, he seems quite unhappy that he’s here.

“No, no, it’s my fault.” I stop him before he continues to blame Noah. “He was protecting me.” I lower my voice into a whisper for the second half, “He helped me.”

“Bull fucking shit.” He sighs then the crouches down to inspect Noah further. He carefully pushes some bloody hairs away from his face, Nicholas’ touch on him is gentler than even mine. He gets a clear view of Noah’s face, it’s adorned with a black eye, a bruised nose covered in dried blood and a gashed open bottom lip.

“Do you think he’ll have to get that stitched up?” I bring up my thumb and chew on a freshly manicured nail.

He tugs at the injured boy’s lip looking at it closer, “No he’s fucking fine.”

While Nicholas is visibly angry, he seems oddly calm, at least calmer that I expected. I suppose it makes sense though, I’m sure this isn’t his first rodeo with a drunken Noah in a bar fight.

He lets go of his lip letting it harshly snap back into place earning a whine from Noah. “Hey!”

Nicholas stands up straight and offers me a hand to get myself up. Once I’m up in front of him, he gives me a once over, probably questioning my outfit of a lace corset and a skirt. “What were you guys doing here?” He questions angrily and closes a bit of the space between us.

“It’s a long story.” Between the alcohol, the fight, and my fading panic attack, I don’t have the energy to go through it all. He goes to argue with me, and I shut him down, mirroring his low grumbly voice. “I’ll explain later.”

His thick brows fall straight, evidently not liking my answer. He takes a moment, as if he’s trying to decide on the next thing to say without pissing me off. “He could’ve gotten you hurt. He could’ve hurt you.”

I scrunch my brows up at him. Sure, I’ve seen Noah storm out of numerous doors, and I saw him get a little abrasive with Bryan earlier, but would he actually hurt someone? Would he have hurt me?

“He didn’t, Nicholas.” I place my hand softly on his chest in an effort to calm him down. “Believe it or not… he saved me.” The sentence surprises even me as I say it.

Skepticism plasters itself across his face. “Saved you from what exactly?”

My eyes flutter to the ground and the same panicky feeling from before spins behind my ribcage. “It doesn’t matter.” I wave away the technicalities. “Point is, he didn’t do anything wrong. You should let up on him.”

He gives me a you’ve-gotta-be-shitting-me look.

The man from before – which I learned from the guys that pulled him away earlier, that his name was Mike – is being escorted out of the bar by two men who look like security guards.

“Oh, so you didn’t just need one scrawny bitch you needed two?” He practically spits at me while wiggling beneath the guard’s grip.

“Excuse me?” Nicholas snaps immediately turning to narrow his eyes at the man.

He laughs, “This one’s even more pathetic.”

I’m not sure why that, out of everything, fills me with the most rage of all. Anger spreads through me like electricity and every cell in my body propels me towards him.

An arm hooks around my waist and recoils me backwards before my fists can reach his body. Even though Nicholas is shorter than Noah, he still towers over me, and I must look tiny in his arms.

Mike mocks me while the guards try to urge him towards the door.

“Shut the fuck up! Don’t fucking talk about them like that!” I struggle trying to escape from Nick’s surprisingly strong arms.

“Hey, hey calm down,” Nicholas hushes me with a little chuckle. “I got you.” His hand gives my side a reassuring little squeeze. “It’s okay.”

Once Mike is completely out of the bar a heavy weight is lifted from my chest and I can finally breathe again. Whether on purpose or by chance, Nicholas’ arm is still wrapped around me, but I don’t mind it. His warmth is comfortable against the frigid air of the bar. It feels nice, like a shelter.

Only then does it occur to me that any sort of panic or fear I was feeling before was soothed by him. In his arms I feel safe, and it reminds me of the way I felt with Noah earlier.

“C’mon asshole,” Nicholas snaps at Noah who’s looking half dead, still laying on the ground.

Noah covers his mouth and squeezes his eyes closed, “I’m gonna need a fucking trashcan.”

“Enough with the dramatics.” Nicholas rolls his eyes, and I can practically feel the impatience and aggravation radiating from his body. “Get the fuck up so I can get us home.”

There is that word again: us.

Us.

It’s a just small detail of wording but for whatever reason, I cling onto it like it means something.

Maybe my time with them won’t be as fleeting as I thought it would be.

next chapter -> 09 - Lavender Haze

tag list; @ladyveronikawrites @kingdomof-omens @persuasivus @strawberryruffilo [comment if you'd like to be tagged?]

A/N: The love for this story has honestly been so overwhelming (in a good way obv) and I couldn't be more grateful. I really thought this would flop lol so, thank you so much for every like, reblog, ask, or comment. It means the world to me truly. Thank you.

i love hearing your thoughts so feel free to share! (i'm really bad at responding to asks but i still love them 😅 i'm so sorry)

ALSO! Thank you so much for the love on my new series, Intertwined 💗 New chapter coming soon! 💗

#i s2g i’ve edited this so many time i can’t even look at it anymore #so here have it already 😭#cheers to this being the longest chapter of the series so far 🥂#i feel like vallie’s personality really shines through in this one #concreteburialplot works #bad omens fic #noah sebastian fic #noah sebastian fanfic #noah sebastian fanfiction #noah sebastian rpf #nicholas ruffilo fanfiction #nicholas ruffilo rpf #nicholas ruffilo fanfic #bad omens fanfiction #bad omens fanfic #noah sebastian x oc #nicholas ruffilo x oc #bad omens x oc #virality series

83 notes · View notes

pandenewie · 1 year

Text

GAMEBOY

SYNOPSIS:

Heeseung visits the same Gamestop every Tuesday and Thursday after his afternoon lecture. Not only because of the hidden gems he finds in the two for one sales bin, but also because of the insanely cute worker who just picked up that shift…

PAIRING: heeseung x fem!oc

GENRE: nonidol!au, college!au, slow burn, strangers to ???, fluff, angst (light)

WORD COUNT: 6.9k

AN: This is a special chapter for my Sunghoon smau “Diary of a Homewrecker” which you can read here :) You don’t need to read the smau to understand this fic. Can be read as x reader if you want, just change the name to y/n :)

Read part 2 here :))

Everyone who knows Lee Heeseung knows that he’s not the most… romantic of people. Not to say he doesn’t try - the amount of rom coms in his Netflix “Watch again” section could put your average 15 year old girl to shame. But despite the amount of “research” he’s done, all Heeseung’s relationships tend to end before they even begin. Maybe some people just aren’t cut out for romance. And some people just don’t know when to quit…

“I know you think I’m crazy but I promise you, we were flirting.” Heeseung repeats, for probably the 5th time since he got in the car. After years of friendship with the older boy, Jay knows it’s best to just hum and nod in agreement whenever Heeseung get’s like this. Heeseung is a handsome dude. So honestly, the chance of some random girl at their college campus flirting with him is quite large. But is it worth making this much of a fuss about it? Absolutely not.

This is how it always goes with Heeseung. He’ll show interest in someone, talk about them non-stop for a few days, go on a date or two if he’s lucky, before the whole thing ends within about a week. It’s a pattern the boys have become very familiar with - so much that there’s a shared schedule between the other 6 friends for who’s on “Heartbroken Heeseung Duty”.

Jay knows this won’t end any differently from the other times Heeseung has found “the one”. Hell, the whole world probably knows at this point. But with Heeseung being such a hopeless romantic and the glimmer of hope in his eyes as he recounts the story once again, Jay doesn’t have the heart to tell him.

It’s not creepy. At least that’s what Heeseung tries to tell himself, as he walks through the sliding doors of the all-too-familiar Gamestop. He’s certainly no stranger to this place - the cream coloured brick and vibrant “For Sale” signs giving a sense of familiarity. Hell, this place is like a second home at this point. So why does Heeseung feel so anxious today?

Well for starters, it’s Friday. Which marks this momentous occasion as his third Gamestop trip this week. Although many would argue that Heeseung has a gaming addiction, three trips in one week is definitely a first.

Despite Heeseung’s life being what many would call a mess, he has very few routines that he absolutely swears by. Visit Gamestop on Tuesday after his lecture, pick out the games he wants to buy, and hide them at the very bottom of the sales bin. Then, once he gets paid Wednesday night, he’ll come back on Thursday to buy the games. That’s the way it’s been since he started university and it’s something he never planned on changing. That was until he saw her.

Now Heeseung never really paid much attention to the workers at Gamestop. They were usually socially awkward teens just trying to make a few bucks and therefore never stood out to him. Until this week…

As soon as the familiar beep of the sliding doors rings through the air, Heeseung makes a b-line for the sales bin at the back of the store. The shop is as quiet as it normally is at 2pm on a Tuesday, leaving Heeseung to comfortably browse before having to pick Ni-ki up from school at 3.

Just as he is deciding between two games, he feels a presence come up behind him - making him internally groan at the thought of communication with another person. But a sudden cherry voice breaks through his sour mood, causing his ears to prick up at the melodic sound.

“Hi! Is there anything I can help you with today?”

Heeseung turns around to find himself face to face with one of the most beautiful women he’s ever seen. With big sparkling eyes and a grin that seems to light up the room - honest to god, if she weren’t standing right before his very eyes, he’d assume she wasn’t real. But as her head tilts in slight confusion - the bright smile not leaving her face, he releases that she is in fact real and he is in fact staring.

Clearing his throat nervously, Heeseung looks away from the girl - suddenly finding some co-op game on the shelf incredibly interesting. “J-just looking, thanks.” He manages to let out, mentally cursing himself for the stutter and waver in his voice.

The girl's smile seems to grow even more, if that’s even possible. Her eyes crinkle as she gently bows to Heeseung. “Ok, if you need anything don’t be afraid to ask. I’ll just be at the front desk.” She says before retreating to her former position.

Heeseung lets out the breath he didn’t realise he was holding as he watches her walk away. That had to be one of the most awkward interactions he’d had in a while. And yet, he’d do almost anything to experience it again. Because no amount of awkwardness could override the pure warmth he felt in the presence of the strange girl.

So here he stands on a Friday afternoon, mindlessly flicking through the games he has no intention of buying as his gaze focuses once again on the girl at the counter. Part of him is just happy to see her face. The way her eyes light up when a customer purchases a game she’s particularly interested in. The way she laughs and jokes around with her coworkers when the store’s a little quiet. But another part of him wishes it was him. That he’s the one she enthuses over games with. He’s the one making her laugh as if he’s just told the best joke of the decade. For now though, he’s more than happy just to watch.

It’s not creepy.

“It is kinda creepy hyung.” Ni-ki mumbles from his position on the couch. Although his focus appears to be on the game he is currently playing, he couldn’t help but listen intently as Heeseung retold the events of his Gamestop trip.

“Hey! I’m not creepy!” Heeseung exclaims in offence, causing his younger friend to roll his eyes. “I never said you were creepy, just that your actions are.” Ni-ki states matter-of-factly. “Because you’d be so much better.” Heeseung bites back, ripping the controller out of his friend’s hand when the flashing “You Died” comes across the screen. Ni-ki scowls at his hyung as he lays back into the couch. “At least I can talk to girls.” He mumbles, thankful that his friend doesn’t hear the words.

A few weeks pass until Heeseung see’s who his friends have affectionately dubbed “Gamestop Girl” again. Not once in those weeks did she leave his mind; a pang of disappointment hitting his chest each time he entered the store, only to find some pimply high schooler instead. But boy, were those weeks of disappointment worth it for the image in front of him.

Heeseung didn’t think that she could get any brighter - any more perfect. Her warm and cheerful smile was now matched with the golden glow of her skin, indicating a possible vacation (which would explain her weeks of absence). Her hair, slightly longer than before though not enough for the regular person to notice. Heeseung noticed. To put it simply, she was absolutely breathtaking.

“Sale bin guy!”

The sudden exclamation breaks Heeseung out of his thoughts as he looks around the room for the origin of the sound. As his eyes land back on the girl, he sees her already looking at him with her familiar smile. That’s when it dawns on him that he is in fact “Sale Bin Guy”.

“Uh.. what?” Heeseung stutters out as she makes her way towards him. “You always come for the sale bin, right? There’s some nice hidden gems in there - I was actually just on my way to restock it.” She rambles on, walking to the back of the store where the bin is located. Heeseung’s feet seem to move on their own as he follows her to the back of the store.

“So, are you looking for anything particular today?” She asks as she begins filling the sale bin with all sorts of games. “I was kinda hoping you’d have Halo - one of my friend’s has been begging me to play.” He says, taking note of each game as she puts them in the bin. “We have Halo, not on sale though. It’s super popular so it’s usually full price unfortunately.” She says, sending him a quick sympathetic smile. Heeseung immediately decides he doesn’t like this smile as much.

“That’s why I haven’t got it yet, it doesn't really fit my broke college student aesthetic.” He jokes, feeling a sense of pride when she giggles a little. “Maybe if you weren’t buying the sale games every week you could save up for Halo.” She says, causing Heeseung to laugh sheepishly. “I’ve got a feral teenager at home who goes through games like he’s getting paid so… I’ll stick to the sale bin for now.” Heeseung says. Although it isn’t a joke, the girl laughs anyway and that sense of pride shoots through Heeseung once again.

The pair continue to make small talk as Heeseung looks through the games and he only suddenly realises that she’s wearing a nametag. Whilst trying to be as subtle as possible, he glances down at the tag and smiles as he reads the name - Ari.

“Ari, huh?” Jay asks, not even remotely enthusiastic to be talking about his friend’s love life. This one has lasted much longer than the others, he’ll give him that. But it’s not like this has actually gone anyway either.

“Isn’t it just perfect?” Heeseung sighs, his lovestruck tone making Jay want to vomit. “And how many times have you spoken to her?” He asks, causing Heeseung to blush with embarrassment. “Well… technically twice. If you count the first one.” He mumbles, making Jay snicker. “And you’re already head over heels for her? That’s weird, even for you.” Jay says, making Heeseung roll his eyes.

“Didn’t you tell your ex that you loved them after like, 2 days?” Heeseung asks. Now it’s Jay’s turn to roll his eyes - his past relationship often being brought up in an attempt to prove a point. “At least I was dating them! What do you even know about this girl aside from where she works?” Jay asks, going back on topic.

Heeseung stays silent as the realisation hits that he, in fact, knows nothing about Ari. Well that certainly needs to change.

“Can you request some games?” Heeseung asks, practically interrupting Ari as she went to greet him. She looks at him a little in shock before breaking out into her all familiar smile. “Well nice to see you too, what sort of thing are you after?” She asks. “Anything? I just got a Nintendo Switch and all I have is Super Smash Bros and this one about a cup.” Heeseung says, nervously rubbing the back of his neck. “Cuphead? Yeah that one can be kinda weird for new players.” Ari giggles slightly before taking Heeseung towards the switch games.

“Well, I’m certainly the girl you’re looking for; me and my switch are basically attached at the hip.” Ari jokes as she looks at the games they have lining the shelves. “You said you already have Smash Bros which would be one of my go-tos. Another would probably be Animal Crossing which you’ve no doubt heard of?” Ari asks, turning back to see Heeseung nod enthusiastically. “Yeah, so that’s super fun if you’re into more chill games. I personally find it very therapeutic but I can also spend all day playing it so you’ve gotta be careful.”

“Then there’s super well known games like Legends of Zelda, Sonic, and other Mario games. They’re the typical ones that you would get in a beginner switch pack. Zelda’s probably my favourite out of those ones but the others are good too.”

“There’s also a whole punch of Pokemon games. I’m probably not the best to recommend those since I know nothing about Pokemon aside from the fact that they’re cute. But I’ve heard they’re good so if you’re into that it’s worth a try.”

Heeseung honestly feels like he should be taking notes with the amount of information Ari is spitting at him. It’s very clear that she rambles when she gets excited, which Heeseung can’t help but smile at.

“So… see any you like?” Ari asks, beaming up at him as her rant comes to an end. “Uh… I’ll be honest I kinda blanked out. You’re just like… really cute.” Heeseung admits, mumbling the last part. If Ari heard it, she certainly acts like she didn’t as she playfully rolls her eyes at him. “How about you start with Animal Crossing and Zelda? Those are my favourites.” She suggests. “Plus, they’re on sale right now, so perfect for a broke college student.” She adds, a slight teasing tone in her voice. Heeseung just nods in agreement as he follows her up to the counter.

“I’m Heeseung by the way.” Heeseung suddenly says as she’s checking out his items. He’s not sure why he tells her his name - maybe it’s just an excuse to keep talking? “Nice to meet you Heeseung, I’m Ari but you probably already know that.” She says smiling. “Yeah… it’s a really beautiful name.” He says without thinking, causing her smile to widen as she thanks him.

“I’ll tell you what, Heeseung.” Ari says, grabbing a pen as his receipt starts to print out. Once printed, she flips over to the blank side and starts writing something down. “That’s my Nintendo ID and Discord. Animal Crossing can be multiplayer, so once you’ve established your island a little… I’d love to have a look.” She says.

“I can’t believe you’re ditching us to play Animal Crossing with some chick.” Jake grumbles as he pushes his way into Heeseung’s apartment. Sunghoon quickly follows suit, sending Heeseung a disapproving look before sitting on the couch. “I literally see you guys all the time and I don’t know when I’ll get to play with her again. Don’t act like you guys wouldn’t do the exact same thing.” Heeseung rolls his eyes. “Jake wouldn’t know, he’s never had a girlfriend.” Sunghoon teases, causing Jake to shove his shoulder. “Says the guy who can’t even talk to his crush!” A mini fight breaks out between the boys, causing Heeseung to rub his temples in frustration.

“What are you guys even doing here? I text the groupchat this morning that I couldn’t come.” Heeseung says. “They’re here for me. Not everything’s about you, hyung.” Niki pokes his tongue at the oldest friend, causing Heeseung to roll his eyes yet again. “You’re right. How silly of me to think people came to my house to see me.” Heeseung says sarcastically. “Feel free to leave him wherever you’re going. It’d be nice to have my couch back.” Heeseung continues, picking up the pillow Niki sleeps with and throwing it at his youngest friend.

Once the guys have left the house, Heeseung lets out a sigh of relief at the sudden silence. The short amount of chaos from his friends managed to distract him from how nervous he is. He quickly glances at the clock on the wall - 5:50. 10 minutes until Ari’s shift finishes. 10 minutes until he’ll be showing her his progress in Animal Crossing.

Realistically, there’s nothing to be nervous about. He won’t be able to see her face so he can’t get distracted by her beautiful features. Plus he has the game to focus on and hopefully stop him from saying anything stupid. Everything will be fine.

“Heeseung! Can you hear me?” Ari’s cheery voice blasts through his headphones, sending a spark of energy right to Heeseung’s heart. Ok, maybe everything won’t be fine. “I uh… yeah.” Heeseung manages, clearing his throat. “Ok cool. I’m just loading into your island. Where do you want to meet me?” She asks. “Um… I have a cherry blossom tree at the front of my island. I’ll wait there.” Heeseung says, smiling to himself as Ari goes on a mini rant about how cute the cherry blossoms are in the game.

As the two of them continue to explore Heeseung’s island, Ari seems to carry the conversation. She’s letting out praises for how well he’s done despite not playing that long, talking about her favourite parts of the island, and cracking jokes about certain villagers. Heeseung finds himself happily content with just listening to her, responding with hums of agreement and the occasional sentence when asked a question.

“Sorry, I know I talk a lot. You can tell me to shut up if I’m too annoying.” Ari jokes, causing Heeseung’s face to fall. Although she played it off as a joke, part of him thinks that she’s being serious. “Don’t apologize. I like listening to you talk. Especially since I suck at it.” Heeseung reassures. He hopes she knows he means it. The thought of someone like her thinking she’s annoying is just wrong.

“Ok. But I want you to talk too.” Ari says. “What should I talk about?” Heeseung asks, his nerves coming back now that he’s been put on the spot. “I just rambled about my childhood dog for 5 minutes cause a villager reminded me of him. You can talk about anything.” Ari assures.

So Heeseung rambles on about anything that comes to mind. University, work, his friends being stupid, even that one time he had to break into his own house because he accidentally threw his keys in the trash. The game became long forgotten as the two get caught up in learning more about each other.

Heeseung doesn’t even notice the time, until he hears the front door of his apartment open. Ni-ki soon walks into Heeseung’s room, eyes widening when he sees that he’s still talking to that girl.

“Oh? It’s my roommate.” Heeseung says into his mic, attempting to shoo Ni-ki out of his room. Dodging Heeseung’s waving arm, Ni-ki pulls the headphones off his head, yelling a quick hello into the mic before Heeseung fights him off. “Get out you rat.” Heeseung whisper-yells, adjusting the headphones so they’re back in their original position. The sound of Ari’s laughter quickly fills his eardrums, causing a dopey smile to spread across his face. “Simp.” Ni-ki scoffs before leaving to find something to eat.

“I’m guessing that’s the feral teenager?” Ari asks, causing Heeseung to sigh. “Yeah… he can be a lot. I guess I love him though.” Heeseung says, checking the time to see that it is in fact quite late. “I should probably go eat something. And make sure he doesn’t burn down my apartment.” Heeseung sighs, not wanting to stop talking but equally not wanting to starve. Or find himself homeless. “I should probably go too. I’ve got an early class tomorrow.” Ari agrees. “I had a lot of fun tonight. We should do this again.” She continues, causing Heeseung to agree a little too quickly. “Ok well, go feed your feral teenager. I’ll talk to you later Heeseung.” Ari says, disconnecting the call after Heeseung lets out a small “goodbye”

Playing together soon becomes a natural thing for Heeseung and Ari. It started with her visiting his Animal Crossing island without him knowing - leaving small presents for him to find later. That led to a game of hide and seek on each other’s islands, where they would call and time each other to see how quickly they could find each other’s presents. Now, fast forward a few weeks and the two have just started a minecraft server - which Ari affectionately named “Gamestop Besties”.

Besties. Heeseung hates that word. He’d call Jay and Ni-ki his besties. He’d call Sunghoon and Jake his besties. Heck, he’d even call his mum his bestie if she didn’t smack him for it. But the thought of him and Ari being besties honestly terrifies him. Because part of him thinks that’s all they’ll ever be. Besties.

“What the fuck?” Heeseung exclaims, his eyes furrowing in confusion as his character walks back to what once was his and Ari’s beautifully built Minecraft house. He says was because half the house is now missing, with a large hole in the wall. “Creeper.” Ari admits. “I forgot they existed.” She continues. “How do you forget about Creepers?” Heeseung laughs. “Well I didn’t have to deal with them until someone killed my cat.” Ari states.

A moment of silence falls between the two before Heeseung sighs. “I’ll get you a new cat.” He says, walking off to try and find a village. “I’ll start rebuilding the house… and make you a new bed.” Ari mumbles the last part, causing Heeseung to gasp. “You blew up my bed?!?”

It’s been almost a week since Ari and Heeseung last played Minecraft together. Now, for most people that’s not considered a long amount of time. But for people who have been playing together nearly everyday, it’s a big deal. She hasn’t been responding to messages either, which has Heeseung especially worried.

Heeseung gets woken from his sleep by a discord notification. For a second, he considers ignoring it and going back to sleep. That’s until he remembers that he only has notifications on for Ari’s messages.

Heeseung practically jumps out of bed, quickly shoving on the glasses he hates wearing before sitting down at his computer. His eyes take a bit of time to adjust to the bright light before he is able to read the messages:

Aristocat: Hey sorry for not replying. Just had some personal stuff going on ://

Heebeejeebee: u okay?

Aristocat: Uh?? I think?? Idk my boyfriend and I broke up lol

Aristocat: But I’m allgoods now

Heeseung’s eyes widen at the message. She had a boyfriend this whole time? Why didn’t she think to tell him? He can’t help but feel like an idiot for not knowing.

Heebeejeebee: Oh. I didn’t know you had a boyfriend?

Aristocat: Yeah haha I didn’t talk about him

Aristocat: Was gonna wait until we weren’t having problems

Aristocat: But it doesn’t matter now ig

Heebeejeebee: How are you feeling?

Aristocat: Sad lol

Aristocat: I can’t sleep

Aristocat: Can we play minecraft?

Heebeejeebee: Yeah just one sec

Ari fell asleep at her computer not long after loading into their shared world. Partially due to the fact that it was well past midnight. But Heeseung likes to think that it’s because the sound of his voice - spoken in soft whispers as to not wake up Ni-ki, was able to lull her to sleep. The quiet “thank you” she let out before drifting off to dream land certainly made it seem like it.

Nothing gets one's mind off falling in love with a friend quite like alcohol does. As Heeseung downs his sixth shot of night and asks Ni-ki to grab him yet another beer, his friends start to think that something’s up.

“I’m a pussy.” Heeseung groans, setting his empty shot glass down on the table. “No arguments there.” Sunghoon chimes in, earning him a few glares from their other friends. “What? He’s getting all mopey over something that hasn’t even happened. Sounds like bitchless behaviour to me.” Sunghoon argues, the pink flush to his cheeks showing he’s not far off from Heeseung’s drunkenness.

“Maybe you should have some water hyung.” Jungwon suggests, attempting to get Heeseung out of his chair. “You don’t think I’m bitchless, do you Wonie?” Heeseung asks, grabbing the younger boy’s hand and looking deeply into his eyes. Almost pleading with him. “Uh.. well you are single so… technically?” Jungwon grimaces at the sound of Heeseung’s head banging against the table, a loud whine escaping his lips. He soon goes on a rant about how much of a loser he is, Jungwon rubbing his back sympathetically as he looks to his older friends for help.

None of them knows what to do. Heeseung’s dramatic sometimes, sure. And he’s certainly known to get a bit over the top when he’s drinking, but he’s never been like this. Sure, they know he’s crushing on Gamestop Girl. But this is the first time he’s gotten so worked up over someone. It leaves them thinking that his feelings for Ari are a lot stronger than he’s letting on.

Fun fact, Heeseung is a sloppy drunk. This is evident in the way that he can barely stand up by himself, needing both Ni-ki and Ari to carry him out of Jay’s apartment. “My car’s just across the street.” Ari says, pointing at one of the few cars parked at this time of night.

When she first got the call from Heeseung that night, she was excited. But as he started to mumble incoherent words through the line, she quickly realised that he was drunk. The phone was soon taken over by his roommate Ni-ki - who quickly explained the situation. So here she is, driving home her drunk friend and his teenage roommate at 2 in the morning.

“Sorry again Noona. Jay was gonna give us a ride but he got tricked into doing shots with Jake.” Ni-ki apologises, causing Ari to wave him off nonchalantly, smiling gently at the younger boy. “It’s fine. I wasn’t doing anything important. Besides, at least this way I know he’s getting home safe.” Ari states, readjusting her grip around Heeseung’s torso to stop him from falling.

Once Heeseung is safely in the backseat, Ni-ki gives directions to their apartment. Ari finds herself looking through the rearview mirror at Heeseung’s sleeping figure throughout the drive. He was still awake and functioning when he called her, so the fact that he managed to drink enough to pass out since then is worrying.

By the time they’ve made it to the apartment, Heeseung has woken up a little. Although his eyes are still closed - he is at least responding to his name now, humming lowly and nodding his head whenever the word falls from someone’s lips.

The two carefully carry Heeseung up the stairs to his apartment, laying him down in his room. Ni-ki leaves to get his hyung some water, leaving Ari sitting at the foot of Heeseung’s bed. She gently wipes away the hair that has stuck to his forehead and tugs his shirt down that had ridden up, revealing some of his stomach.

“Heeseung?” Ari asks, causing the boy to hum at the sound of her voice - a dopey smile adorning his lips. “Ni-ki’s getting you some water. Can you sit up?” She asks, lacing her fingers through his and attempting to pull him into a sitting position. Heeseung allows her to move him around, dropping his head onto her shoulder with a thud.

“Be careful.” Ari softly scolds, bringing her hand to gently rub the part of his head he hit on her shoulder. The two find themselves in comfortable silence as they wait for Ni-ki to return.

“Ari?” Heeseung asks quietly, his words muffled slightly as he presses his face further into her neck. “Did you do this kinda stuff with your boyfriend?” He continues. Her fingers halt their movement at the sudden question, causing Heeseung to whine and press his head further into her hand.

Ari’s not sure what to answer. Does he mean look after him when he’s drunk? Is it the fact that she’s caressing his head? Heeseung sighs at her silence, mumbling a quiet nevermind before completely pulling away to lay down on the bed. Ari watches him for a moment, confusion written all over her features as she processes what just happened. Part of her knows exactly what he meant, after all, Heeseung isn’t the most subtle person in the world. She immediately shoves that thought down though, not emotionally ready to unpack it just yet.

Finally, Ni-ki returns with the water and gives Ari the greenlight to go home. Part of her wants to stay and make sure Heeseung’s okay, but she finds herself walking out of the apartment before she can even think of an excuse not to.

“Oh my god, I’m so embarrassed.” Heeseung exclaims, resting his head on the table in the kitchen. He can remember everything from the night before, and he’s not sure if it’s a blessing or a curse. Ni-ki pats his friend’s back sympathetically but offers no further help to the situation.

“Do I text her and apologise? Or do I wait for her to bring it up? What if she doesn’t remember and bringing it up only makes things worse? Wait, she was sober so of course she remembers!” Heeseung throws his head back in frustration, letting out a loud groan. “I am never getting out of the friendzone.” He whines, causing Ni-ki to roll his eyes. “You’re hopeless, hyung.” Ni-ki sighs before returning to the game he’s playing on his phone.

Trying to pretend everything is normal proves to be a difficult task. Heeseung remembers very clearly what he said to Ari the night he got drunk. He knows the implications behind his words and part of him wonders if Ari knows too.

She’s been normal, for the most part. Her voice, just as cheery when the two play games. Her smile, just as bright when they facetime late into the night. Everything seems fine on her end, and Heeseung can’t help but feel that maybe he’s the problem.

“Are you still awake?” Ari’s voice sounds through his phone speakers, snapping Heeseung out of his thoughts. “Yeah… I didn’t think you were.” Heeseung admits, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. He grabs his phone from where it’s resting on his nightstand, holding it so she can see his face more clearly. “Can’t sleep.” Ari admits; a small smile on her lips when Heeseung’s face comes into focus. “I feel restless.” She adds, slightly laughing in disbelief.

You’d think after a day of uni, a five hour shift and multiple hours spent gaming, she’d have run out of energy by now. But here she lays at an unspeakable hour in the morning, not an ounce of tiredness in her body.

“Restless?” Heeseung asks, intrigued. “Yeah… like I need to get out of the house or something.” Ari sighs, running her hands through her hair. A moment of silence passes between them before Ari sighs once more.

“I think I’m gonna go for a drive. Clear my mind.” She says, picking up her phone as she goes on a hunt for her car keys. “Okay.” Heeseung says, his heart falling a bit at the thought of her hanging up.

Another moment of silence…

“Do you want to come?”

Sat in the passenger seat of Ari’s car, Heeseung feels his heart being pulled in two different directions. On one hand, he gets to spend more time with the woman he’s grown to love. He gets to bask in her presence, her scent sending his heart into a peaceful bliss. On the other hand, she isn’t as warm as normal. Her voice, not as cherry; her smile, not as bright. It’s as if someone has taken all the light from her heart. And thus, breaking Heeseung’s at the same time.

The car is fairly silent, some random radio station playing softly in the background. Neither Heeseung nor Ari make any move to start conversation - finding solace in the comfortable silence.

As the two pull into a nearly abandoned car park, Ari sits back in her chair - running her hands through her hair once more. Something she does when she’s stressed, Heeseung’s noticed.

“Is everything okay?” Heeseung asks, watching her from the passenger seat. He’s been watching her since she picked him up, her movements, mannerisms, the way she gently hums along to the radio when she knows a certain song. All things that would usually bring a smile to Heeseung’s face. But not tonight - not when there’s clearly something wrong.

Ari hums gently in response, turning in her seat to face Heeseung. Her eyes are tired, though still shimmering in a way that would put the entire galaxy to shame. “Have you ever given so much of yourself to someone, only for it to not be enough?” She asks softly. Heeseung can’t help the way he softly bites his lip, nodding gently to her question. “I think I know what you mean.” He says.

It’s one of Heeseung’s greatest fears, not being enough. Giving your everything to someone, to live, think and breathe all for them, only to have it all to be gone in the blink of an eye. It’s the reason Heeseung has never been in a serious relationship - as much as he is obsessed with the idea of falling in love, he’s scared. Because Heeseung falls hard and fast, and he wonders if there’s anyone in the world willing to fall with him.

Ari is everything Heeseung has ever wished for in human form. She feels and expresses her emotions more than anyone he has ever met. It’s what made her so different from everyone else he’s been interested in. Because some childish part of him believes in fate. And god, does this seem like it.

“You spaced out again.” Ari comments, causing Heeseung to sheepishly rub the back of his neck, mumbling a small apology. “I don’t suppose you have a remedy for a broken heart in that interesting head of yours?” Ari asks. She brings her finger up to gently poke between Heeseung’s brows, the furrow he didn’t even know about immediately fading.

“Me”

Heeseung is an idiot. The mix of shock and confusion on Ari’s face confirms that he did, in fact, say that out loud. His expression can’t help but mirror hers as he racks his brain for something… anything to say that can fix this. Is it even worth attempting to play it off? Or should he just man up and confess? He’s basically already started… so might as well give her an explanation.

“Fuck Ari… I just can’t stand to see you like this. Knowing that I could love you more than he ever did. Treat you better than he ever did. It pains me to think that he would just throw you away like you’re nothing, when there are people like me… people who would do anything to just hold you and feel you and love you.”

“You are so bright and warm and radiant and just so pretty. You’re the most beautiful person I’ve ever laid my eyes on. And I know you don’t believe me, which makes you even more beautiful in my eyes.”

“I know, this is the worst time to tell you but I can’t just keep acting like it’s nothing. Like I feel nothing… It’s killing me, Ari.” Heeseung finishes, the hint of desperation in his voice causing Ari’s eyes to soften.

“Heeseung…” Ari lets out, not too sure how to respond. “I’m sorry. I know you’re upset and I just sprung all my feelings onto you, I should never have-”

“Heeseung.” Ari cuts him off, her tone a little sterner at the sound of his rambling. Heeseung bites his lips nervously as he awaits his fatal rejection. “Listen… you’re amazing, Heeseung…”

And there it goes. The infamous line is one he’s heard many times in his life. It starts off as a sweet compliment, almost tricking him into thinking there’s a possibility that just maybe they return his feelings. But all the hope of reciprocation goes out the window as soon as the word but is mumbled. You’re amazing Heeseung but just as a friend. You’re amazing Heeseung but you’re too much for me.

“Heeseung.” Ari repeats for a third time, once again breaking him out of his thoughts. He lets out a hum to let her know he’s listening, his eyes zoning in on a particularly interesting thread on his shirt. “Can you look at me, please?” Ari asks softly, reaching out to gently pull his hand away from the thread - hoping her touch will help to ease his mind in some way.

Heeseung reluctantly brings his eyes up to meet hers, trying to ignore the way his hand practically goes numb from the warmth of her own. Like it’s ascended to heaven from her touch alone. Ari sends him a small smile before continuing what she’s saying:

“Heeseung, I want you to believe me 100% when I say that you are one of the nicest, most considerate guys I’ve ever met. And I am so lucky to have someone like you in my life, who sees me and cares for me the way that you do.”

But… There’s always a but…

“But… it’s just not gonna work. Not right now, at least.”

Heeseung’s eyebrows furrow at her words. Usually rejections are so blatant and obvious, you’d be a fool to go away with any questions. So why is Ari rejecting him in a way that still leaves him with hope?

“You have been nothing but sweet and patient and attentive towards me and my feelings. You deserve to be with someone who will give you the same back, if not more. I’m sorry but… I don’t think I can do that for you right now… and I don’t know how long it’ll be until I can.”

Ari finishes her sentence with a gentle squeeze to Heeseung’s hand. He slowly lets go of the breath he was holding, being sure to squeeze back. “I understand.” He says quietly, a small smile on his face.

If there’s one thing Heeseung doesn’t know how to do, it’s give up. What sounded like a perfectly normal rejection to most people sounded completely different to Heeseung’s head. Because to him, the difference between no and not now is ginormous. And Ari didn’t tell him no.

The drive back to Heeseung’s apartment is equally as silent as the one before. Despite the relationship between the two not changing the way Heeseung would have liked, he can’t help the small smile on his face and the sudden feeling of freedom in his heart.

They mumble soft goodbyes as Heeseung gets out of the car, Ari winding down her window to watch him walk to his door. Before he can think, Heeseung turns back around to face her - causing Ari’s eyebrows to furrow with confusion.

“I’ll wait for you. As long as you’ll let me.” Heeseung says, holding out his pinkie as a promise. They both know what he means, and the thought alone brings a smile to Ari’s face.

Jay is a good friend. He reads people easily, noticing the small signs of what someone might be thinking. It’s definitely not psychic, but if there’s anyone in the world who’s close - it would be him.

Which is why he’s mentally beating himself up. Heeseung sits across from him at the campus cafeteria, happily eating his sandwich. And for the first time in their years of friendship, Jay can’t tell what he’s thinking.

It’s no secret that Heeseung has been oddly private recently… especially since he’s someone who’s known to share his life events with anyone willing to listen. Ever since the whole thing with Ari fell through (Jay assumes, since Heeseung hasn’t mentioned her in months) Heeseung hasn’t shared the story around his love life with any of the guys.

Speaking of the devil, Heeseung’s eyes light up as he sends a cheerful wave towards someone behind Jay - that someone turning out to be none other than Ari.

She politely bows to Jay before turning to face her friend. “I thought you had a lecture?” She asks. “Yeah but the cafeteria was gonna close and I really wanted a sandwich.” Heeseung says, motioning to the snack he’s currently holding. “You’re such a dork.” Ari giggles, glancing at the clock before her eyes widen. “Oh shit, I’ve got work.” She exclaims, pulling her phone out of her pocket to text someone. “I’ll call you later.” She continues, affectionately squeezing Heeseung’s shoulder before leaving.

Jay’s eyes stay furrowed with confusion, even as Heeseung turns back to face him. “What’s wrong?” Heeseung asks, taking another bite of his sandwich. Jay shakes his head slightly, looking down at his own food. “Nothing I just… I didn’t know you two were still talking.” Jay shrugs.

Now it’s Heeseung’s turn to be confused. He and Ari talk everyday? She even comes around every Thursday night and makes Tacos with him and Ni-ki. Why would Jay think they stopped talking?

The realisation suddenly hits him. Ever since he confessed, he hasn’t felt the need to mention Ari or his feelings towards her to the other guys. Since nothing will be coming from it anytime soon, he figured it’d be best to stop annoying them about it.

“Oh, yeah she rejected me a couple months back.” Heeseung says nonchalantly, causing Jay to look at him in shock. “It’s all good though. She said she wasn’t ready for a relationship and everything stayed basically the same. I just don’t talk about her cause… y’know, not like anything’s happening.” He continues. “Oh, well that’s good to know.” Jay nods, causing Heeseung to smirk at his friend.

“Why… do you miss gossiping about my love life?” He asks, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively. “I’m not Sunoo.” Jay groans, rolling his eyes but smiling at his friend nonetheless. “Don’t worry, you’ll be the first to know if anything changes.” Heeseung says, happily taking a bite of his sandwich.

Heeseung still isn’t the best when it comes to love. But he’s certainly learning. This time last year, he would’ve had his week of crying and moved onto someone new. It’s honestly refreshing for Jay to see such a change in his friend. And if he knows anything about Heeseung, it’s that he doesn’t change for just anyone. Which means that this Ari girl must be pretty darn special.

108 notes · View notes

bebepac · 1 year

Text

Where Do We Go From Here?

I am participating in @choicesflashfics prompt week 28 using: “I saw this and it reminded me of you, and “Sometimes forever doesn’t necessarily mean forever” and past prompt “I don’t regret it... but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t a mistake.” All used quotes will be in bold.

I am also participating in @aprilchallenge for the over all theme Just want to be with you.

This is Part 8 of the Cordonian Arrangement.

The Book: TRF The Series: The Cordonian Arrangement Pairings: MC is widowed, Past Pairings Riley x Nico (Riley x M!OC) , Past Pairing of Liam x Riley Word Count: 2232 Warnings and Ratings: Mention of character death, grief. Mention of pregnancy complications, profanity: / Teen Summary: Riley and Liam try to deal with a very awkward situation.

Original Post 04/14/23 at 2PM EST.

It was barely dawn and the sun was only creeping slightly through the windows. When she moved, his embrace tightened, pulling her back close to him, so that he could lean into her to kiss her neck. He sharply inhaled because her natural scent was so intoxicating to him. He had missed sharing tender moments like this with her.

Riley was still waking from her slumber but to her, it felt like a typical morning, that she had lived every day when waking in his arms was commonplace.

She moaned softly as he continued to gently dot kisses to the sensitive skin of her neck, her body responded naturally to his touch.

“Let’s stay in bed. Don’t go…." she mumbled in her sleep. “Stay with me.”

“Always.”

His voice made her immediately leave that place of pre woke slumber to soberingly wide awake, quickly pulling away from him.

“Liam….”

Fully awake, all the memories of the last few months, and from last night flooded back to her in a wave.

Observing the shock and almost disappointment in her eyes, Liam knew, as she shielded her bare body from him with the bedsheet.

Liam’s voice was heavy with discontentment as he spoke.

“That wasn’t intended for me, was it?” Liam’s gaze was piercing, full of disappointment causing Riley to quickly break eye contact with him. She just couldn’t look him in the face right now, but she wanted to be honest with him; he deserved that.

“No… I’m…. sorry….” She murmured as she turned heading towards the door still draped in the sheet from the bed.

“Riley, we need to talk about this. There’s a reason you came to me last night. It felt right for us to be together that way. We felt like us again!”

“For a brief second, this morning, I forgot the horror that has been my life these last three months. Last night, I was lonely… I wanted to feel…. connected to someone again. I didn’t mean to give you the wrong idea, and for that Liam, I’m truly sorry."

“Do you regret what happened between us last night?”

“No… I don’t regret it… but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t a mistake. It was a mistake Liam. We have way too much history for me to think that you would simply be okay with it. This is all my fault. I should have been clear with you what last night truly was….for me.”

“We made love last night Riley.”

“We… didn’t. It was just sex, Liam. I’m still in love with my husband.” She glanced down at the ring on her finger that she was still wearing. Nico's wedding band dangled from a gold chain around her neck.

“Your husband is dead.”

Riley gasped in shock. Liam immediately wanted to take the words back, but it was too late; the damage was done. Riley shook her head in disbelief.

“Who are you?”

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean it like it came out, Riley. Forgive me, I didn’t mean it Riley. I promise you I didn’t.”

"Yes you did."

"I really didn't…"

“Get out of my house.”

“Riley….No… We’re supposed to take Angelo to the zoo together today.”

“GET OUT OF MY HOUSE NOW!!!!”

"Riley please…."

She adamantly shook her head no.

"Nico was wrong about what you and I could be to each other. I need you to pack your stuff and leave now.."

“Riley, that's not fair for you to say that. We’re still figuring all of this out. This isn’t easy for either of us to navigate.”

“I need you to leave Liam.”

“Not like this. I’m not leaving you like this Riley.”

“Fine, then I’ll leave.”

Riley left his room and locked herself in the master bedroom.

After a few minutes she heard the sound of Liam’s rolling suitcase on the floor, it stopping in front of her bedroom door.

“I’m going to say goodbye to my son before I leave.”

"You should do that."

"For what it's worth Riley, I'm really sorry."

“Goodbye Liam.”

A few minutes later Liam was gone. Riley took a deep breath finally unlocking her door.

Ruby One

“I was sure you said you were here until Monday, how the hell did I fuck that up?” Leo asked when he got on the plane clearly confused and hungover.

“That was the plan.”

“Well what went wrong?”

Liam explained what happened with Riley.

“You’re an absolute fool when it comes to Riley. That woman is a walking red flag right now, and trust me I know a red flag when I see one.”

“What?”

“It’s not her fault though, she lost her husband. You ignored all the signs because you want her back, and Riley’s not there yet. She can't be what you want her to be Liam…at least not right now. You have had a front seat to her grieving Nico.

You know how hard this whole ordeal has been for her. When I saw her last, she was still wearing her wedding ring, and his wedding band. Did she take them off?”

“No.”

“That’s not a woman that’s ready to move on with you, no matter how much you want her to be ready. She’s stuck in that place where she still desperately misses her husband, and wants him back.

She was probably lonely, and let's be honest horny, and you were there, and she sought comfort from you, in that way. You had to know what you were getting into when she showed up at your door last night. Liam, be honest with yourself. It wasn’t the beginning of rekindling of your relationship with her, and you knew that, but you wanted her so much, that you didn’t care. You just wanted her, any way you could have her.”

“You’re right. I love her."

“Liam, you have to give her time. If the two of you are meant to be, she will come back to you. But what you did, didn’t help the situation, you got mad with her and said something incredibly hurtful. It was true, mind you, but hurtful. You do this to her, you know and you need to stop."

"Do what?"

"You impose all these things on her, expecting her to follow them, to be what you what, how you want it, when you want it. Then you get all surprised that she rebelled against you and ran, and put up every wall imaginable to keep you out, this not being the first time she’s reacted this way to you. Does this sound familiar?"

"I'm acting just like father would….."

“You are little brother.”

“Give her some space, and she’ll come back around.”

“If she doesn’t?”

“It was just never meant to be, and if we’re being completely honest here, you lost her over three years ago; it might be time to finally let her go.”

Liam was in a deep state of contemplation the rest of the way back to Cordonia. He decided it was time to listen to his own message that was given to him by the late Nico Karahalios. Liam pulled his own envelopes out of his desk drawer. He had given him two envelopes one said "If it's working" the other one said "If it's not working."

He picked up the "If it's not working" video and began watching.

"Hey Liam. I can honestly say… I’m not surprised.”

Nico smiled. "You thought it was going to be easy, didn't you?"

Nico began to laugh.

"You really did, didn't you?!!"

Nico abruptly stopped laughing. "I'm sorry. This is not helpful.”

"Damn right it's not." Liam thought.

“I’m sure that you were expecting more from me.”

Nico sat silently for a few moments.

"Like what exactly? Did you think this was the part where I am going to tell you how to win my wife's heart back? How to get her to fall in love with you again? I'm not going to do that. I can't do that. She's not going to do anything because you want her to do it. She does things on her own time. That woman has her own mind, and she's not afraid to use it. Liam, she's a different woman than the one that came here a week after you met her in New York. None of the same rules are going to apply. You have to get to know her again as the woman she is now. She’s been a lover and a confidant to me, she’s been a faithful wife, and a beautiful mother. How I won her then, I can’t even take credit for that, I didn't win her, but instead she chose me.

I think she chose me because I was patient with her. I did what I said I was going to do. If I told her, we were meeting at 6PM for dinner, I’d be knocking on her door at 5:50. She could always rely on me being there for her. Comfort and stability allowed her to relax with me, because Riley is not a calm person. Her senses are always heightened, waiting for the other shoe to drop, because of all the hurt and loss she’s experienced in her life. I finally got her to relax with me…and then I died on her. I will never forget the look in her eyes when I told her I was dying. She was completely blindsided. The light after everything she’s endured that you see in her eyes so easily, disappeared. It broke my heart.”

Nico shook his head.

“Our marriage wasn’t perfect. We had our fair share of fights. Our very first year of marriage was particularly tough. We lived with my mother. Can you imagine? Small house, with a newborn, while my cousins helped me build the house we were in now. Our first really huge fight, after we moved in, Riley kicked me out of the house and locked me out.”

Nico laughed.

“From my house. I slept in a tent in the yard for 3 days. My cousins saw me, talked all this macho shit to me, and so I got all ballsy and I went up to MY HOUSE. MY HOUSE THAT I BUILT FOR MY WIFE…And insisted Riley let me back in. You know what happened Liam? Can you guess?”

Nico was silent for a few moments.

“It was the equivalent of upsetting a bee hive. I spent a fourth night out in that damn tent. Day five, I left her alone. Day six, when I woke, she had brought me breakfast, and wanted to talk. Was she still angry with me? Yes, but she had calmed down enough that she could talk to me without shutting down on me. I hope you understand what I’m trying to tell you.

Riley put up with a lot to be in that arrangement with you, that experience changed her. Now, yet again, she will be forever changed from losing me. I don’t know if she’ll come around. I hope she will, because I want her to be happy, Liam. She’s had too much sadness in her life, to not be. I wanted to be her forever, and sometimes, forever doesn’t necessarily mean forever.

So in closing, whatever you did wrong… Make it right Liam.”

Liam decided to take a page from Nico’s book. He gave her space. Finally after the most painful weeks of not speaking to Riley, he decided to send her a text. Riley used to like a good meme in the past, so he decided to send her one.

“I saw this, and it reminded me of you. Just imagine they are butterflies, and I remember how you feel about butterflies.”

Later in the day he noticed she had seen the meme, but she hadn’t responded. He decided not to push and maybe Riley would respond on her own. During the night while Liam was sleeping she sent a meme back to him.

He took it as a sign she was ready to talk.

He immediately called her and once she picked up he started speaking, not even waiting for her to say hello.

“Riley, I completely deserved the way you treated me that day. I’m so sorry for what I said. I never meant it, and I never meant to hurt you. Please forgive me.”

“This isn’t Riley. It’s Athena, we just got Riley to the hospital, she wanted me to call you.”

“What’s wrong?”

“It’s the baby. We’re really concerned.”

“I’ll be there as soon as I can.”

Staff had the Ruby One prepped for departure within the hour. Leo when hearing the news decided to go with him for support. Within three hours they were at the hospital.

"What room is Riley Karahalios in? I need to see her."

"Are you family?" The receptionist questioned, and when he didn't respond she countered with "Only family is allowed back in this wing."

"He is family. He's the baby's father."

"He's right. I am the baby's father.”

She’s in room 224.”

Leo followed as Liam walked briskly down the hall at an accelerated pace.

“She’s going to be fine. Her and the baby are going to be fine. They have to be.”

Athena and Mama K were sitting outside the room when he walked up. Athena immediately stood.

“Athena, what happened to Riley?”

“She was having pains, and there was some bleeding. We were really scared. It’s stopped now. They have her calm and she’s finally resting.”

Liam walked into the room, Riley was snoring, the beeps of the multiple monitors didn’t seem to be bothering her. Taking her hand in her sleep and gently stroking it, Riley still did not wake. So he sat there quietly holding her hand.

He softly whispered to her. “I’m here.”

Riley woke up a short time later.

“What are you doing here Liam?” Her hand tensing slightly under his touch.

“Athena told me you wanted her to call me.”

“No I didn’t….”

“Oh…”

“But I’m glad she did. I told her not to, because, I didn’t want to worry you.”

Riley’s hand relaxed in his again, her free hand rubbing her stomach.

“I thought I lost her, and I can’t lose both of them. I can’t handle that. I’m such a mess right now. I’ve never felt this out of sorts in my life. I’m sorry I got so angry with you. I get that this isn’t an easy situation for you either.”

Liam could almost hear the words of the late Nico Karahalios in his ear. “You have to get to know her as the woman she is now.”

“It’s alright. I know. How about this? Let’s just start over. Let’s forget all the missteps on both our parts, and start at the very beginning. I’m Liam Rys, it’s a pleasure to meet you….”

“I’m Riley. Riley Karahalios.”

And that’s the woman, she is now.

#bebepac writes #the cordonian arrangement #riley x nico #liam x riley #choices fanfiction #choices flashfics #choices monthly challenge #trr fanfic #trr fandom #liam rys #riley brooks #choices fic writers creations

80 notes · View notes

skzfairyy · 1 year

Text

District 9: Chapter 1

Mafia!AU || skz x OC’s || PG-17 ||

Pairings: Bangchan x oc, Minsung x oc, other pairings to come!

Genre: Angst, Romance, Enemies to Lovers, Friends to Lovers, Humor, AU (& so much more lol)

Warnings: Graphic depictions of violence, weapons, language

Status: Ongoing

Wc: 2.4k words

AN: You’ll see a lot of “FB” and “EOF” within this series, it simply means “flashback” and “end of flashback” we figured we should clear that up pretty early, and since Chapter 1 was already pretty long, we decided to split it up haha. See you in two weeks! ~ Y2K

*(AGE 19)- THE SHIFT:

Graduating from these hellish academies may seem like a joyous occasion for some. But for Stray Kids and the Choi’s? Their hell was just beginning.

Yura and Rina were placed in quarters with their guardians, Hwasa and Moonbyul as they took on teaching positions during the day, and became the perfect deadly agents they were trained to be at night. As each girl skillfully completed each of their missions, racking up an impressive body count, they became the most prized possessions of 2ne1 Academy, and their reputations garnered respect throughout all of District 9.

Their duties behind closed doors were always impeccable, which is why they were chosen along with a few other agents to watch over tournament day for the trainees under their care. Seeing as their version of field day was held at 2ne1’s advanced outdoor training arena behind the academy, the girls didn’t have to go far to help make sure things run smoothly.

Moonbyul was the head professor and trainer in charge of the event ever since she started it with headmaster Taecyeon of the 2pm School all those years ago. And this year would be the girls' first time not participating.

As bittersweet as it sounds, Choi Yura is a fresh graduate of her academy with the highest position in combat, as well as Moonbyul’s personal trainee. Her attendance would be just as important today as her mother's and she planned to not be late.

In true Yura fashion, she chose one of her favorite black mini dresses to wear, this one was a high neckline dress with short sleeves, and a simple cutout atop her breast area. It was made completely of her usual spandex-like training material. Making her outfit flexible if she was needed to handle anything that got out of hand. No longer a student, she was finally able to wear her new combat heeled boots that she says “gives me an advantage in height and in battle”.

She displayed her weapons proudly on her body as she placed her dual blades into a new position, a secured harness crossing them in the middle of her back. The curly bob she once had as a teenager had grown out reaching her shoulders. Since she wasn’t fighting today she decided to just wear her black hair naturally with two braids going back into a simple half up half down hairstyle. Too distracted by everything else in the works. Her final touch was the one silver dangle earring paired with a small hoop she always wore, and the golden emblem of her school pinned to her shirt, indicating that she was no longer a student but an administrator for today's events.

With much to get done, Yura would find her sister somewhere on the field later. Byul and Yura were needed in the early morning so they left before Hwasa or Rina could wake.

The latter would be put in charge of the students competing today versus the entire event. Rina would be in charge of the sixth-year students this year since their rounds would be the most intense. Her outfit this morning was similar but different from her younger counterpart. Always opting for a pair of shorts, especially during an outdoor event like this, she chose her black combat shorts and paired them with a simple cropped black t-shirt made of similar material as her sister's dress. Her blades and pistol were secured on her sides as she wore her usual combat boots. Her ears are decorated with studded earrings and they’re on display as she opted for a high ponytail for today's events, leaving her black curls falling beautifully behind her. Also securing her golden pin to her shirt, Rina and Hwasa move to gather their students for the day and lead them outside where many competitors have already arrived and are walking about the campus.

Located at the grand entrance of the academy, were the buses full of students from the neighboring schools, as well as their own chaperones. Coming off of the bus in matching uniforms of dark camouflage pants with black short-sleeved muscle training shirts, and matching boots were the members of Stray Kids. Their silver emblem was pinned to their shirts as all four of them moved to get their boys lined up and sent to the arena for the morning ceremony.

Bangchan was in strict teacher mode for the unit of students he was in charge of, running through the rules and expectations of their own school before allowing them to leave from his view. He was not a student anymore, now that he works for the academy their eyes aren’t on him or his friends. Yet he still felt a need to be on his best behavior today, as well as the others that were brought with him.

Changbin and Minho were finishing up their own speeches with their units when Jisung finally stepped off the bus. He quietly moves over to where Bangchan is and stands at attention not too far away from him. His eyes can’t help but wander, taking in the very busy and active field behind him.

“Chris, the opening ceremony is about to start.” He says turning back towards their group.

Chan notices the flood of people heading over to the main arena and leads their boys in that direction. As their students move as one unit ahead of them, their trainers fall in pace with each other in the back.

“Today’s the day!” Changbin smacks the back of his leader’s back hard. “Are you excited? You haven’t seen Rina since…”

He makes eye contact with a scowling Chris which makes him turn away, instantly dropping the rest of his sentence and dispersing into the crowd.

A month ago the boys were placed on a night mission to secure an art piece for each of the academies and the Choi twins were sent to team up with them. On the ground were Yura, Rina, Bangchan, and Changbin. Back in the van directing them and guiding them out of enemy territory was Minho and Jisung. Everything went relatively smoothly except for one little hiccup.

FB*

“You two choose to fight right now?” Rina whisper yells to her partner as they move quickly through the field of junk separating them from their van parked in a discreet location.

Yura had successfully grabbed both artifacts from the guarded bunker and handed them off to Changbin who had left for the van moments before them. Bangchan had gone to take the guards down at the entrance when the girls were spotted. The two acted quickly as Rina aimed for their chests, shooting two security guards as Yura managed to pry open a nearby window. They both moved quickly through the night along the side of the older building. An alarm sounded as their face masks were adjusted on their face.

Minho began shouting orders to them through their communications piece, barking to turn around and take another route. Yura chose to ignore him and continue to guide them along the way.

“Yura, I am literally standing in front of the monitor right now. And I'm telling you to turn. Around.” His voice is strained through gritted teeth as he speaks, the irritation being quite clear with his words.

“Yeah and as someone who just left 5 guards shooting at me, I’m gonna have to disrespectfully disagree Minho.” She’s just as snarky with her response.

Rina trails closely behind with her gun out. She’s been listening for the sound of people around them as well as having to hear the back and forth of her sister and their teammate. Her own patience wearing thin with the two’s on-going feud.

Before Yura moves ahead around another corner, Rina stops her. Cutting her next gory threat to Minho short as they both hear footsteps moving in fast from the path in front of them.

“Don’t shoot!” Minho says to the two.

“Minho shut the fuck up for two seconds, there’s no time for us to duck and hide anywhere else.” Yura responds, her and Rina’s guns are in hand and aimed as the footsteps get closer.

“Yura if you had any ounce of brain cells left you’d fucking listen to me when i’m giving you direct instructions! Turn! Around!” Minho retorts.

“Wait, Killer, he's right. Don’t sh–” Jisung’s calm voice cuts through as well.

But the girls acted first.

The stranger’s body rounds the corner and Rina shoots instantly, her gun pierces him somewhere on his side, causing him to fall to the ground with a thud.

“You fucking– That was Chan!” Minho yells in both their ears.

“What?!” they say in unison.

Rina holsters her gun instantly and moves to Chan’s side.

“Shit!.” Her hands find the bullet wound.

She turns his body over checking for an exit wound. The man does nothing but moan and groans as she moves his body around like a limp noodle.

“There’s no exit wound, I can't check it out here though, I’ll try to cover this up and get to you guys. Changbin!?”

Rina’s communicating to their last member knowing damn well he heard everything.

“On my way back boss.” His voice is quick as he realizes they’re no longer in a position to joke around.

Rina is fast as she rips off her black sleeve to cover the bullet wound. Her legs are moving to straddle him to get a better angle, noting how her small sleeve is already getting soaked. With a glance to her sister who’s on guard behind her, she lifts her shirt up and off her body and tears it down the middle, wrapping it around Bangchan’s torso and securing it tightly against his wound. Once it’s secured Rina leans over his body and lightly taps his cheeks to get his attention.

Bangchan finally is able to barely lift his eyes open, a bit dazed from the injury. Feeling a warm weight on top of him, he lifts his head, his eyes focusing as he takes in her face. He then notices her lack of a shirt, exposed skin, and sports bra in his direct view. With the lack of blood in his system his head began to spin as his eyes fluttered shut instantly, knocking him out cold.

“Chan? Chan! Christopher, seriously!”

Rina groans as she watches his head fall back with his eyes shut.

“Chan just passed out.” Rina sighs into her comms.

Yura meanwhile, has taken down two guards that found them, she spots Changbin not far from them and moves to call out to him.

“Oi! Jigglypuffs! Hurry up, your papa bear just passed out from catching a glimpse of heaven.”

She glances behind her at Chan’s limp body and Rina’s attempts of slapping him awake.

As Changbin moves to lift up Bangchan’s limp body. Rina turns and glances at Yura, a quick nod of confirmation from the two has Rina directing Changbin out of the alleyway, leaving Yura alone. Seeing as this was the best option for Chan’s health, plus Yura could make it back to the van with the help of their teammate.

“Hey Stink, tell your rabid dog to take the backseat for two seconds, I need you to guide me out of here.”

Jisung glances at Minho with slightly red cheeks, the nickname catching them both off guard.

“I’d rather eat glass than help her again anyway.” Minho hands his headpiece over to his partner, kissing his temple gently before moving to stand outside the van, awaiting his friend's arrival.

“Okay Killer, take a right here. The layout is kind of like in league when we fought the boss from level 78.” Jisung moves quickly pulling her location up and chatting with her happily until she arrives at their location.

By the time Yura arrives, everyone’s inside the van. She bangs on the door three times, as Minho slides it open. The two stare harsh, deadly daggers at each other. Yura’s black dress is a bit more bloodied than how she last left everyone but she says nothing to him as she climbs inside. Chan is being looked over by Rina in the corner, her head lifts briefly to scan her sister’s injuries before turning back to the unconscious boy below her. Changbin moves to drive the van, and Minho takes the passenger side, unable to be in that small of a confined space with the younger Choi girl. Jisung is busy at his makeshift comms table, cleaning off the artifacts as the van takes off into the night.

Yura’s body jolts at the sudden takeoff, falling in the lap of Jisung. His arm is fast to wrap around her waist, stabilizing her while still focused on his task.

“Yura do you not have ears? Do they not fucking work?” Minho’s been stewing on what he’d say to the girl once she arrived and they made it to safety. “If I say don’t shoot, what fucking sense would it make to fire your fucking gun?” He turns in his seat, eyes full of fire as he looks to her.

The girl was quite tired herself after having to fend off and fight her way back to the van. Having someone who wasn’t even her leader nor her boss lay into her for something that she didn’t even do was making her jaw tick in a way that would make this entire van a whole lot bloodier if he wasn’t careful with his words. Jisung’s hand squeezes her gently, only enough for her to notice. That squeeze gave her a slight calming feeling as her eyes did not back down from the hound not far from her. Even Changbin glances at Minho, not particularly fond of how he was speaking to Yura.

“For fucks sake, I shot Chan. We heard footsteps coming so I shot. It wasn’t all Yura’s fault so quit pointing the fucking blame on her while I’m trying to save your friend’s life Lee Minho.”

Rina’s authoritative tone comes out just as harsh as Minho's. Her eyes shoot him sharp daggers, completely over the childish bickering between the two and the insults he kept throwing at her exhausted sister.

“We finished the mission, we’re heading home. So everyone just shut the fuck up.”

Her eyes snapped back to her tasks of dressing Chan’s wounds while everyone did as they were told. Yura ended up passing out in Jisung’s arms, unable to hold back her fatigue much longer. Changbin did his best to distract Minho up front, carrying on conversations that led them all the way to their schools.

Y2K masterlist || series masterlist || last || next ||

#District9 #y2k stories #skz mafia au #skz x oc #skz x reader #straykids #bangchan x oc #kpop #minsung x oc #ChangBin #lee know #Han #seungmin #hyunjin #i.n.#jisung #mafia au #minsung

44 notes · View notes

causeilikelix · 1 year

Text

'Cause I Like You - Chapter Thirteen - Riding the Soundwaves - Two Years Later

↳ Pairing: Felix x OC / Hyunjin x OC (later)

↳ Genre: Romance, comedy, smut (eventual), slow burn, enemies (idiots) to friends (idiots) to lovers (probably still idiots), high school au, college au, non-idol au

↳ See Chapter One for summery and blanket warnings

↳ Chapter warnings: Like one (1) singular mention of being turned on

↳ Read on my A03: Here

↳ Notes: Sorry this took so long! School, work, you get it! The semester is over in two weeks and then I'm gonna write some more.

<- Chapter Twelve- Chapter Fourteen ->

“Good morning, KNU! You are listening to 90.5 The Art, based out of the Korean National University of Arts! I am your DJ for the next hour, Bbokdi. Welcome to the very first installment of my brand new show: ‘I Am Who?’ I hope we get along! You can follow me and interact with me on Kakao talk or Instagram at @Bbokdi_whoshow.

For this show I just wanted to spend some time with you lovely listeners, play some of my favorite songs these days, and do a couple of talking segments. I have a segment for anonymous confessions and a segment for messages you’d like to send to someone else! Seeing as it’s my first show, I asked a few of my friends to submit some for me to read. However, if you would like me to read something, please message me!

I don’t want to talk your ear off right off the bat, so I’m going to play one of my favorite songs. I’ve been listening to it pretty much non-stop all week so I’m excited to play it for you today. So let’s get started and please enjoy this incredible moving song by Day6, and my message to you! ‘Hi, Hello.’

...

Ah, wasn’t that lovely! Again that was a favorite of mine from Day6 called ‘Hi, Hello’. I hope you enjoyed it! Once again you’re listening to 90.5 The Art and I am DJ Bbokdi with my show “‘ Am Who?’

Let’s see, I really want to feel like I’m friends with all of you and I know that will come in time, but I wanted to introduce myself properly. I am a freshman here at KNU and I have always enjoyed music and production, so in an ideal world I will be studying that while here. Some of my favorite artists are Coldplay, NCT, Sam Smith, Macklemore, and of course Twice. So, you’ll likely hear a lot of them while listening to the show! If there’s anything else you want to know about me, please don’t hesitate to send me a message!

Without further ado, let’s get back to the music. I have a bunch of great songs lined up for this set including Bruno Mars, 2PM, and Imagine Dragons!”

~!~!~!~!~!~

“... and that was ‘Mirotic’ by TVXQ!. And honestly, what a classic. I admit that I do like some of the older K-pop, as it honestly did set the stage for K-pop as we know it today.

I hope you are all doing well with your midterms! I’ve been studying like crazy all day and all night. I thought the studying I did in high school was intense, but it’s nothing like that! I wish you all luck on your exam week!

We’re going to go into a quick break and then we’ll be back with your favorite segment: Secret Confessions!

...

And we’re back! You’re listening to me! DJ Bbokdi on 90.5 The Art out of Korea National University of Art. Now it’s time for ‘Secret Confessions’ where you guys send me anonymous messages on Kakao or Instagram and I read them over the air! Sometimes it’s nice to get it off your chest. This segment has really taken off since I started the show a few weeks ago! I’m so happy you guys like it. It makes me feel so warm inside.

Alright, first we have a confession from ‘In My Feels’. Well, we’re already off to a good start! They say: ‘I have had a crush on a boy in my class for the longest time and I feel like I’m in middle school all over again! We’re not in the same group for a project and I don’t know if he feels the same. I like him so much and I don’t know what to do. Help!’

Oh, we’ve all been there, I think. Honestly, it’s been so long since I’ve liked anyone like this so if anyone has any advice, please text it in and let’s see how we can help! I would suggest just talking to them and maybe asking about a concept you’re talking about in class. Make sure it’s something they seem to know a lot about. That way you can get them talking easily. It will make him feel good about being able to help you with something he knows a lot about and you feel good because you initiated an easy conversation.

Next, I have a message from ‘Dog Days.’ They say: ‘Yesterday it was my turn to walk the dog, but I was so tired from school that I paid my little brother to take the dog out instead while I took a nap. My mother got home from work a while later and thanked me for taking the dog out, but I never did! And I didn’t correct her.’

Wow, looks like you got away with it! I bet that feels great to say. Alright, let’s go ahead and play a song and we’ll be right back!

...

Welcome back! Inspired by the first message, I played ‘The Feels’ by Twice and I am unashamed to say I was dancing a little in the studio. It’s such a fun, high energy song and it always makes me feel warm when I listen to it.

The next confession I have is from ‘Bbokie Fan’. They say: ‘Sometimes I go through the radio archives and listen to your old shows to help me fall asleep. Your voice is so warm and calming and I could listen for hours!’ Well, thank you! Oh, that is so sweet of you to say! I hope you’re sleeping in a cold room or something cause I think if you’re sleeping somewhere warm and my voice makes you warm it might... I dunno, make it too warm? Well, anyway, you can look forward to more shows from me! Maybe I’ll play a few quieter songs to help you sleep better.

Next we’ll be hearing from ‘Rainbow’ who says: ‘I want to get this off my chest and I think you might be my safest option. I think I’m gay, and I don’t know how to tell my family. I’ve never had a girlfriend and I don’t want one. I’ve only ever liked boys, but I’ve never had a boyfriend. I’m too scared to tell anyone who I truly am.’

Wow, I’m honored that you told me! Of course, your secret is safe with me. I’ll be honest in return. I can go either way. I’ve liked both girls and boys but I’ve never told anyone about the boys before. Sorry to my friends who are just learning about this! But I don’t think it’s anything to be ashamed of. I think that if you don’t feel safe coming out to your family, wait until you are before saying anything. I know it’s tempting to scream it to the world, but your safety is the most important thing. I’m positive that one day you will find like minded people and you will find someone with whom you belong.

Oh, look. It looks like I have time for one more song before I have to sign off. Hmm... I wonder what I should play. Just kidding, I pre plan my playlists. Once again my name is DJ Bbokdi, thank you for listening to the show today! This is ‘Viva la Vida’ by Coldplay!”

~!~!~!~!~!~

“Guys I am just floored with the support you’re giving me! Just now my Instagram passed two thousand followers! I never would have imagined my show getting so popular in less than a semester, but I am very happy it did!

I have people saying they love the music I play, my advice, and how I sometimes whisper into the microphone. My best friend always says I have a good voice for radio, so I’m glad to be putting it to good use. I just wanted to say thank you to everyone for saying such wonderful things!

Anyway, in the last few minutes I’ve gotten a bunch of questions that I want to answer for you, so we’re switching gears a little bit! I just got the question ‘do you have any pets?’ and the answer is unfortunately no. I would love to adopt a little kitten or a puppy, but I am about to move in with a couple of my friends in an apartment that does not allow pets. So maybe one day! Until then, I satiate my desire to have a pet by going to dog and cat cafes to cuddle with them there!

Someone also asked ‘What was your favorite memory from high school?’ and I had to think about it for a minute. I had so many great memories in high school. However, I would say this. In my junior year I transferred schools and I was worried about fitting in, but right away I ran into an old friend from primary school and from there I met many of the guys I consider my best friends today. So, I think I got lucky in that regard.

Ah! Sneaky! Someone asked what my real name is! I would have told you if I wanted you to know! I know you’re all so curious, but part of the fun is the anonymity. I know you all have so many more things you want to ask, but I’ve been talking forever. So, I think it’s time to play a song!

Honestly, I’ve been thinking about someone I knew in high school a lot. I’ve been missing them and wondering where they ended up. Whenever I think about high school I always think about this song. I used to listen to it every day on the bus ride in. It always motivated me to face the day, and I hope it can help you, too.

This is ‘Amsterdam’ by Imagine Dragons.

...

That last song we just heard was ‘Sugar We’re Goin Down’ by Fallout Boy. Truly, what a classic. I really like the era of music from about 2003 to 2010 with all of those boy bands like Fallout, Panic! At The Disco, Parachute... just to name a few.

Gosh, you guys are swarming me with so many questions! Today I’ve received more questions than confessions, so next week I’ll do an extra long confession segment and focus on questions today! You know I love sharing my thoughts with you guys.

This one reads ‘What did you think of Ali Gatie’s last album? Have you listened to it yet?’

Oh my gosh, of course I’ve listened to it! One of the songs is on my playlist for next week. I really think he has a unique take on...

...

... Which is why I think that is my favorite song off the album. Oh boy, I didn’t mean to talk your ears off about that for so long! We’re going to go through a quick little commercial break and then we’ll continue!

...

Welcome back! You are listening to “I Am Who?” with your favorite smooth-talking DJ Bbokdi! For those of you just joining us, I’ve decided to mostly just answer questions today instead of doing confessions, so I’ll be reading only confessions next week!

Just in, I got a very important question from number 3783, ‘Important! Please read! Are you dating anyone?’ Oh! Haha, I suppose I should have been expecting this question at some point. To be honest, no. I’ve gone on a few casual dates with people but I haven’t had a significant other since high school. I haven’t been terribly interested in dating, since I’ve mostly just been focusing on University!

Next I have a question from number 8236 asking, ‘DJ Bbokdi, what is your number one hobby on the weekends?’

Oh this is an easy one! Lately, when I have free time, I’ve been baking a lot! Last weekend I got to try out this incredible banana bread recipe and...

~!~!~!~!~!~

Welcome to the show! You are listening to 90.5 The Art and I am DJ Bbokdi. For today’s show, since earlier this semester I did a show all with questions and then later did one with all confessions, I figured we needed a show with all music.

You see, finals week is almost upon us and I know we all have a lot of studying to do. Myself included! So I’ve come up with a great relaxing playlist filled with slow songs and some Lo-Fi stuff to help you focus. I’ll pop in to say hello a few times, but for now let’s just enjoy the music!

Admittedly, this playlist was inspired by someone who I miss and hold dear to my heart, and wherever they are, I hope this brings them a little slice of joy. Our first song today is a favorite of theirs called ‘Kiss Me Slowly’ by Parachute. A part of me always knew they were romantic!

~!~!~!~!~!~

Welcome to the new semester at KNU! My name is DJ Bbokdi and you’re listening to ‘I Am Who?’ on 90.5 The Art.

Spring is in the air! Well, kind of. It’s still brutally cold since it’s only January but I’m honestly so excited because that means we only have two more months until cherry blossom season. I long for the warm weather and sunny days. I haven’t been on a decent bike ride in years so I hope to go this spring if I get the chance.

This semester, I have a lot of great things lined up for the show and I hope you love them as much as I do! This semester I’ll be incorporating some new things, like a mindfulness ASMR segment, where each show I’ll be reading out some phrases that will hopefully motivate you. I also have a really exciting show planned for Valentine's Day, so please be thinking about questions and confessions you want to send to me! If you send them now they’ll likely get lost, so just think about it and I’ll let you know when to send them!

Since it’s cold outside, I decided I wanted to share with you some warm and motivational songs to get you going. It’s so easy to let that seasonal depression get you into a rut. I get it, I’m the same way. So hopefully today my show will make you feel a little bit better.

This morning we’ll be starting off with ‘Like Ooh Aah’ from my favorite girl group, Twice!

...

Alright, that last song I played was ‘Red Flavor’ by Red Velvet. This playlist is so warm and wholesome. I hope that these songs are warming you up on this cold day. I think it might snow later, so be careful wherever you’re headed!

~!~!~!~!~!~

Good morning and welcome to the [Show] Valentine’s Day special with me! DJ Bbokdi! Today’s show will be composed of love songs, love confessions, and a few questions from you guys! Typically I avoid questions that get too personal, but I figured I would make an exception today since so many of you have been asking.

Today, we’re going to start right off with a beautiful love song to start the show! This is ‘No Other’ by Super Junior! What a classic!

...

Alright, that last song was ‘For Life’ by Exo. That winter tune made me tear up the first time I listened to it! My roommates made fun of me for it, but I don’t care a bit. It’s just so lovely and an incredible declaration of love.

Speaking of declarations of love, we have some lined up for our anonymous confessions! We have a really interesting one here from ‘Playing With Fire’. He says, ‘I like my dance partner. We’ve been paired together in our classes for the last two semesters and with every project I fall for her more and more. She’s beautiful, funny, and talented, and I can’t believe we’ve been so lucky to work together for so long. Luckily, I think our teachers see that we have chemistry, but I wonder if she sees it?’

Wow, you’ve got it bad, dude. Still, she sounds great and I’m happy for you! Hopefully you can get up the courage to confess. If I were you, I’d at least wait until the end of the semester. You don’t want ruined feelings to make things awkward!

Next I have a confession from ‘Chipmunk’. He says, ‘I’ve been with my girlfriend for two years now, but now I see that I don’t think I’ll ever want to be with anyone else. I want to wait until after we graduate to propose, but I don’t know if I have that kind of self control! I think we can wait that long.’

Oh, congratulations, Chipmunk! That’s so exciting! I hope that you can work with her to build a happy life together. Wow, all of these messages coming in are so happy and warm, I wish I could read them all to you!

Okay, last one before I play another song. This one is from ‘Lovestruck’. They say, ‘Mina-yah! I like you! If you like me back, meet me at our spot and accept my heart!’

How sweet! Mina-ssi, I think this was very brave of them so I hope you can give them a chance! Honestly, for me, it’s always so hard to confess to someone and I think I’ve let a lot of opportunities slip away because of it. So if they’re brave enough to tell you, especially over the radio, I think you could give them a chance.

Anyway, I’m going to play a few songs and go into a quick commercial break and I’ll be back in a few! Starting us off on this set is ‘You Really Are Beautiful’ by Choi Nak Ta!

...

Welcome back to ‘I Am Who?’ with DJ Bbokdi! For this Valentine’s Day special, I wanted to share a little more about myself. In general, I like to keep my identity secret and only a few of my friends know about the show. Especially now that the show is so popular, it’s just easier for me to keep my radio life and my school life separate. But today, because you’re all so lovely and kind to me, I’ve decided to answer a few of the more intimate frequently asked questions.

So! For the first question many of you have asked: ‘Tell us about your first kiss?’. Gosh, it was so long ago. I couldn’t have been older than twelve or thirteen. I remember I was at school, I went to a private Catholic school that was co-ed and one of the girls had a crush on me. This is so embarrassing, but even though I didn’t like her back I agreed to kiss her. So during lunch we went out to the yard and behind a tree and I gave her a little peck. Only a few seconds. It was so embarrassing I couldn’t talk to her for weeks!

Her crush on me went away after that, so I don’t know what that says about my kissing skills. I like to think they’ve improved but it’s not like anyone’s given me any feedback.

Anyways! The next one is... oh boy... ‘Who was your first love?’ This... this isn’t really an easy answer? I had my first love in high school but we knew each other before. She was incredible and pretty and, in hindsight, it was love at first sight. But it took me a while to realize I liked her. In any case, we weren’t close or anything and she liked someone else. She was a piece of work though, but it was fun sometimes. While I never confessed or anything, she made it extremely clear that she wanted nothing to do with me. Last I knew of her, she got accepted into medical school so I haven’t seen her since graduation.

I had a chat with all my friends the other day about this, actually. It was nice to reminisce and think about all the lovely, positive things about my first love. I don’t think I’ll ever see her again, but it’s nice to think about her and I genuinely hope she’s doing well.

Alright, last one before another break! You guys wanted to know if I like anyone now and the answer is... not really? I think I’m still hanging on to some residual feelings from my first love. Those are kind of hard to forget, you know? But anyways, maybe one day I’ll find someone I like. In the meantime, I have you guys!

Okay, for the next song I wanted to play some K.Will, a true romantic classic...

~!~!~!~!~!~

...

And that was ‘You Were Beautiful’! I’ve been listening to a lot of Day6 recently. I don’t know why, but their songs always hit the spot. The instrumentals are incredible and the lyrics are always so powerful. Honestly, I don’t know why I haven’t listened to them more. I used one of their songs as my first song last year, but at the time I hadn’t listened to much else, but I’m glad I listen to them now! One of my... um, friends, kind of... put me onto them indirectly and now I can’t get enough! They honestly don’t have a bad song, if I’m being honest...

I hope that these slower songs have been helping you prepare for midterms this week! I have literally three exams on Friday and I’m tired already. My wrist is killing me from all the writing and the revision I’ve been doing. I think I’ll do well, but who knows. I just hope I won’t fall asleep during my exam. Anyway, enough talking from me. I wanna make sure my voice is rested for the ASMR Affirmation segment here in a few songs!

This next one is from another artist I’ve only recently started listening to. You guys all know how much of a connoisseur of good music I am, so I always love discovering new music. I came across this completely by chance and I wanted to share it with you. This is a great track from LOONA, a group who is admittedly new to me. This is from their album [12:00], ‘Fall Again’...

...

Alright, the last song in that set was [Song] and while I’m loving all of these great songs, it’s time for ASMR Affirmations.

If you’re just joining the show for the first time, my friends all tell me I have a really nice, deep voice for doing stuff like this. Since I’m too embarrassed to release a proper ASMR Youtube series or something, I decided to do it in small bursts to work up my confidence. Since the theme of my show is generally positive, I want to share warm affirmations with you to help you get through the day. Without further ado, here we go, I’m going to whisper into the mic...

Today I will get everything done that I need to, and even if I don’t, tomorrow is another day.

I wake up every day and I do my best.

I am deliberate and afraid of nothing.

I am here for a reason and I will see it through to the end.

Failure is just another way to learn how to do the right thing.

You all are going so amazing on your exams and I am so proud of you for sticking it out even though it is hard.

Your dreams await you.

...

~!~!~!~!~!~

Thank you for tuning into [Show] with your favorite DJ, Bbokdi! I’m so thrilled to be back this semester!

Ladies and Gentlemen, it is an absolutely GORGEOUS day to start the new semester. Last year just whizzed right by and I can’t believe I’m already a sophomore! Honestly, I think the fall semester is often my favorite. Starting the semester when it's warm outside and the energy is high is my favorite. I have some great classes lined up this semester and I have some huge projects I’m working on and, honestly, I’m just loving my youth right now.

This show will continue on as it has. I will share my favorite songs, your confessions, answer questions, and do some warm affirmations to start your day! This morning, I’m just so excited so I want to start off with a bright, warm song that I’ve been obsessed with to get the mood right for the morning. This is ‘Shivers’ by Ed Sheeran, featuring Sunmi and Jessi!

...

And that was ‘The Way I Am’ by Charlie Puth! Hopefully, these songs are giving you the energy to start the day! I’ve been really motivated the last few days, so I want to share it with you! These songs have really inspired me recently.

I want to jump into a few of your confessions because I have some great ones that you guys sent in this morning. This is one from number ‘6348’:

‘I just moved away from my family to go to school here and follow my dream. They all said I would regret it, but I don’t. In fact, I don’t even miss them. I’ve never felt more at home.’

Oh wow, I’m so excited for you! It’s hard, I get that. My family and I moved to Seoul so my sisters and I could get a good education, but over the summer they moved back home to be closer to my grandparents. I miss them, but I know I belong here. So, maybe it’s not exactly the same but we’re definitely in a similar boat. I am so excited that you’re following your dreams! Here’s a confession from number ‘8234’:

‘I have a huge crush on my best friend but I’m so afraid to say anything and mess it up! We’re so compatible but for some reason, I can’t seem to take that extra step. I don’t want to ruin a good thing.’

I think we’ve all been there, Friend. At least, I have. I had a crush on my best friend when I was a freshman in high school I think? Anyways, I’m sorry you’re going through a tough time and I hope you can figure out what to do! If it gets too bad, I would consider talking to your friend and seeing what you can do to keep up a healthy relationship. Remember: communication is key!

Alright, last one for the day, we have a message from number ‘0392’:

‘I’ve been studying pretty much every day for years because my parents want me to succeed, but my secret is that I hate it. I don’t want to study for a while and just live my life. I barely was able to convince them to let me come to KNU but even now they want me to be the top student. I feel like my life has been completely taken over by textbooks and exams and I don’t see an end in sight... I feel so burned out.’

Oh wow, I’m sorry to hear that. Studying is hard and I am so proud of you for sticking with it even though you hate it. I hope that soon you can take a break or talk to your parents about letting you take a break. If you really have worked this hard, you deserve to take a rest. Now that I think about it, I had a friend, I say friend... she didn’t like me, but anyway, she was like this. She studied so much our senior year and she got so many nosebleeds from the stress. My friend, you need to prioritize your health above all else. That is what truly matters.

Also, this is your youth! You will never get these years back and it is so important for you to make the most of it and live your life to the fullest. I know that’s easier said than done but sometimes that just means closing your book and drinking your tea or coffee in silence, or sitting down and listening to your favorite song a million times, or going for a walk.

I believe in you!

...

Alright, that’s about all I have for the day, I have to get to class here soon. We listened to some great music and I have just posted my playlist on Twitter! Before I wrap up, I want to take care of some housekeeping!

As of tomorrow, I will be changing my Twitter handle to something a little more fitting so keep an eye open for that and...

...”

~!~!~!~!~!~

“GOOD MORNING? EARTH to Cha Eunbyeol!” Jiho tugged lightly at the earbud cord dangling from her best friend’s ear.

The girl in question sighed happily as she stared out across the bustling and busy quad. The sun warmed her skin and her favorite radio show warmed her heart. Jiho’s nagging was pure background noise as DJ Bbokdi whispered his final few affirmations of the day into her ear. His rich, smooth voice covered her like warm chocolate and she sighed again. Jiho rolled her eyes and muttered something Eunbyeol couldn’t hear, but it didn’t matter. Not when Bbokdi was talking. Who cared about anything else?

Her sophomore year at KNU was already off to a good start. Eunbyeol’s dance class yesterday went perfectly and she was aptly paired with her favorite dance partner for their final project. The other kids protested, knowing they would get a good grade that way but their professor pretended not to notice. She and Hwang Hyunjin met in her first dance class in college last year, and while they weren’t partners right away, they hit it off swimmingly. They helped each other with their routines and with the choreography their professor had them memorize. Then, during the spring semester they finally got paired together properly for a project and sparks flew. No other dance partner had ever complimented her the way he had. His dance style was distinct and skillful and Eunbyeol wondered why he even needed to take dance classes in the first place.

Eunbyeol only just barely managed to convince her parents that KNU was the place for her to be, and not Seoul National University. Human anatomy and organic chemistry didn’t interest her in the slightest, so she had to go after something she liked. No one except her was surprised when she got accepted into the school. She, Jiho, and Jisung all got their letters on the same day and they met in the library of their high school to open them. Eunbyeol, somehow, was lucky enough to get just enough of a scholarship to convince her parents.

And the rest was history.

She got good grades, had amazing friends, an adorable apartment with Jiho not far from campus, a perfect dance partner, and the warmest radio show to help her through the week. DJ Bbokdi rambled on about something that happened to him earlier this week and she chuckled at the anecdote but finally noticed Jiho pointing at her watch.

“What?” Eunbyeol tugged an earbud out of her ear.

“Don’t you have class?”

“Yeah, I have Fundamentals of Acting of all things at noon, but that’s not for a while.” Eunbyeol waved it off and went to put the earbud back in, but Bbokdi’s voice was rudely cut off by the shrill ringing of her phone. Hyunjin’s handsome profile picture popped up on her phone, alerting her of a call. It was a sweet picture they took together back in March during cherry blossom season. The pair of them smiled into the camera and Eunbyeol could forgive the interruption. “What’s up, Jinnie?”

“Where the fuck are you?” Hyunjin’s airy voice hissed into the phone and Eunbyeol jumped.

“What do you mean? I’m in the quad waiting for class?”

“We agreed to meet at the theater building so we could go in together and get a better chance at being partners for the semester.” Hyunjin’s pout could be heard through the phone.

“Yeah, and I’m going to go! Class isn’t for an hour.”

“You idiot! It’s literally 11:55 right now. Don’t tell me you were listening to that stupid radio show of yours again.”

“What! It’s not stupid! DJ Bbokdi really gets me! Today he played like three songs I’ve been obsessed with recently. Besides, I won’t be late, it’s only-” Eunbyeol checked the time on her phone. “Fuck!”

“I’m never going to speak to you again if I have to be stuck with some random person for the entire semester.”

“I thought Minho was taking this class, too?” Eunbyeol scrambled to gather her things, shoving her papers and books into her backpack unceremoniously while Jiho watched on.

“He had to switch out for his stage managing practicum. I think I have another friend who agreed to take it, but I don’t know if he got in! If that’s the case, I don’t want either of us to be stuck with some rando.” Hyunjin whined.

“Bye, Jiho-yah! I’ll see you at home!” Eunbyeol called to her friend, ignoring the ‘I told you so’ eyeroll that she was so famous for. “Relax, I’m on my way, I’ll be there soon.”

“It’s 11:56 now! If you’re late you owe me dinner. You’d better run!”

With nothing else, Hyunjin ended the call and Eunbyeol wasted no time in picking up the pace. While running she quickly navigated to the radio station app to see if Bbokdi ended his show yet. She fumbled as she ran, cussing under her breath the entire time. Eunbyeol shoved the earbud into her ear just in time to hear the last ten seconds.

“That’s it for me today, my friends! Be sure to tune into [Show] next week! Same time, same place. Now, I have to get to class. See you later!”

“Damn it...” Eunbyeol muttered, racing past the student center without getting the chance to peer in and see if she could see the mastermind at the switchboard.

Eunbyeol stumbled onto the radio show quite by accident. In her first semester, she’d found Jiho listening to it one day because Jisung recommended it to her. Something about DJ Bbokdi just made her heart all warm and before she knew it, she found herself listening every single week. He had the perfect voice for radio, smooth and enticing. And he was friendly and loving and such a wonderful person, truly the whole package. It was no wonder that most of the girls she met on campus always had something to say about DJ Bbokdi and his beautiful voice and beautiful personality. Surely, with a voice like that, he had to be good-looking.

The idea of being ‘just another fangirl’ was abhorrent and Eunbyeol winced at the mere thought. She wanted to be his friend somehow. He’d read a few of her confessions on-air and answered a question or two, but for some reason, it wasn’t enough. It didn’t feel like he was talking to her. Not exactly.

Eunbyeol couldn’t tell if the warmth in her chest was from the show this morning or the physical exertion of running down the path toward the theater building. She’d only agreed to take this stupid class for Hyunjin, who wanted it as one of his electives outside of his majors. The idiot was enrolled for two bachelor’s degrees and still found time to take asinine acting classes and he convinced her to do it with him. She needed a few electives herself, so she agreed. But... it wasn’t the only reason.

Her heart pounded as she made her way closer and closer to the building. She could see it, but he wasn’t standing outside. Hyunjin must have gone inside to secure a partner. The professor for this class did the same thing many professors did. They stuck you with a partner for a semester-long project where you had to equally contribute towards a mutual goal. It’s how she and Hyunjin got close, and how they wanted to stay close. Hyunjin was the perfect partner for her and she for him. It was no wonder why he wanted her to take this class with him. He didn’t want to be stuck with someone potentially unreliable. With that thought, Eunbyeol sped up.

Her phone pinged with a message and she winced, eyeing the preview on her screen as she ran. Hyunjin wasn’t going to wait for her to be late. Eunbyeol’s heart sank at the idea of running up to the building without seeing Hyunjin on the stairs. The only reason she ever liked being late was getting to see him waiting for her. She wished she could see that today: Hyunjin’s slender form leaning against a wall or a pillar and swiping aimlessly through his phone before looking up at her and smiling. She couldn’t decide what she would have missed more. The end of her radio show or her gorgeous best friend.

[Jinnie: Professor Min is beginning to dish out partners as a way of taking attendance. She hasn’t even read the syllabus yet. You’d better hurry!]

A new text from Hyunjin made her lungs claw for breath. Eunbyeol cussed under her breath as she started up the stairs toward the building. The theater building was tall and made of pristine glass. In the evenings, you could look in and see the sparkling chandeliers and ivory marble floors. Her senior showcase would be performed on the expansive stage and just the thought made the hair on the back of her neck stand to attention. She longed to leap and twirl on the hardwood under the lights.

She didn’t have time to stop and peer into the hall to appreciate the stage like she normally did. Eunbyeol wanted to dance there more than anything. Well, except for maybe getting to class on time.

[Jinnie: Just listen to your stupid radio show in the building next time... you’re too whipped for that guy.]

She would have to tell him off for that later. She didn’t have enough brain power to come up with a comeback, but thankfully she could give Hyunjin an earful after class. She wasn’t that whipped.

Eunbyeol gratefully rounded the corner and was glad to see the door to her classroom open. A few students hurried up and down the hallway to get to their respective classes, so at least she wasn’t alone. A boy several feet ahead of her slipped into her classroom and her heart swelled with a moment of camaraderie. At least she wouldn’t be the only one late to class. She glanced quickly at her watch to find that she was only three minutes late, so she might still be able to be partners with Hyunjin. Eunbyeol wasn’t sure she could survive this semester being partnered with anyone else.

“I’m sorry, Professor!” Eunbyeol gasped as she threw herself into the brightly lit classroom. She doubled over to suck in some deep breaths. “I lost track of time, please forgive me-”

“Look at that! It looks like you won’t have to be in a group of three. We’re back to an even number in the class!” Professor Min exclaimed, clasping her hands together.

Eunbyeol slowly straightened out and glanced through the room, her eyes finding Hyunjin as naturally as looking towards the light. Hyunjin sat near the back by the window and he stared at her with wide eyes. His jet-black hair was about as long as his chin but pulled back tastefully out of his eyes with a white ribbon. A few stray stands fell out to frame his slim face. His features were soft and elf-like, with a strong jawline and cheekbones but handsome eyes and lips. His thick eyebrows were furrowed together and he mouthed a few words at her through the classroom. She knew him well enough at this point to tell what he was saying.

“Where the hell were you, what happened?”

“Lost track of time! Who is that?”

Eunbyeol gestured vaguely to the random boy on Hyunjin’s left. He glanced over before scowling at Eunbyeol. She didn’t need to be told that the random kid was Hyunjin’s partner. She hoped he at least saved her a seat. Eunbyeol knew he’d be mad, but they’d have to talk about it after class.

“Oh, okay!” A voice at the front of the room exclaimed and Eunbyeol’s attention was ripped rather rudely from her best friend.

The boy who had slipped into the room before her stood at the front of the room by the professor. He wore a black hoodie, strange for the middle of August, and a black cap that had tufts of blond hair sticking out the bottom. His backpack sagged but his shoulders were straight and showed no strain from the weight. Something about him struck her as familiar, but she couldn’t seem to place him.

“Student? What is your name?” Professor Min, a tall and lithe woman with a long ponytail down her back, once again brought Eunbyeol’s attention back into the room.

“Ah... I’m Cha Eunbyeol.” she introduced herself with a deep bow, missing how the boy at the front tensed up the moment she spoke her name.

“Welcome Cha Eunbyeol! Please find a place to sit with your partner! Ah, please introduce yourselves.”

Eunbyeol rose back up just in time to have her world completely turned upside down. The blond boy turned around to greet her, his handsome face melting into a satisfied smirk that she knew all too well. She never thought in a million years that she would see him again after high school and, in fact, was banking on it. She wanted to forget her entire relationship with him but somehow, fate had brought them together again. She supposed it was her fault for not paying a lick of attention to him after the music video shoot before their senior year. How could she have known they chose the same goddamn university?

The boy took a step towards her and held his hand out to her. He stuffed his free hand into the pocket of his hoodie. Blond hair poked out of the cap he wore from all angles, curling around the back of his neck and flaring out around his perfectly shaped almond eyes. She almost wouldn’t have recognized him with the longer blond hair if she wasn’t hyper-aware of so many other parts of him. His soft hands, plush lips, perfectly angular nose and those beautiful freckles scattered along his cheeks.

If it wasn’t for his signature smirk and the obnoxious nickname he called her, she might not have recognized him at all. When he spoke, Eunbyeol’s jaw dropped and she found herself stuck to her place on the floor. His voice somehow got even lower and it reverberated through her and went right to the empty space between her legs.

“Hello, nice to meet you, Sweetheart.” He whispered the name under his breath so just she could hear it. “I’m Lee Felix. Let’s get along, shall we?”

Oh no... he got hot. Really, really hot.

~!~!~!~!~!~

EUNBYEOL TRIED TO pay attention to the syllabus in front of her, but she’d heard all of the boring stuff before. The professor droned on about things like classroom policy, school policy, and plagiarism for several minutes and Eunbyeol convinced herself that was why she wasn’t paying attention.

Same shit, different day.

Same shit, same guy, different day... different school. Eunbyeol’s jaw set as the thought about the unbelievably hot blond-haired boy sitting next to her. Thankfully, Hyunjin put his backpack on the seat to his right so she could sit there.

Hwang Hyunjin: Her dance partner, the most beautiful man she’d ever seen, her best friend, her crush. Whenever she saw him her heart leaped into her throat and she couldn’t believe that he actually liked her too. Even if he didn’t like her in a romantic sense, he liked her enough to hang out with her all the time and seek out being her partner for class projects. In fact, aside from Jiho, Eunbyeol thought she spent most of her time with Hyunjin and he spent most of his time with her. Not only that, but he was the best dance partner she’d ever had in her life. It was almost movie-like and stereotypical how well they worked with each other, most of the time predicting the other’s moves way before they did them.

“It’s your fault we’re like this.” Hyunjin leaned over to whisper in her ear.

“I know!” Eunbyeol wanted to scream, but she kept her voice as a harsh whisper. “You don’t have to remind me.”

“I would have been happy with either of you but now I have neither? Ridiculous.” Hyunjin rolled his eyes and leaned away, leaving Eunbyeol to wonder what he meant. She didn’t have time to ask before the professor finally spoke up about the project.

“Alright, and now the project!” Professor Min began. “You’ll see the details in the syllabus, but here’s the gist. Your final project will be a pair scene that we work on all semester. You have a couple of weeks to read a bunch of scenes and one-acts. Ideally, your performance will be between ten and twenty minutes. By the third week of class you will have chosen a scene with your partner, by midterms you will perform it once for the class and we will spend a few weeks workshopping each piece. Then, your final exam will be performing your piece at a showcase in the Black Box theater.”

“Oh god, are you sure you wanna take this class?” Eunbyeol whispered to Hyunjin, swallowing the lump in her throat.

“Of course I do. Come on, it’ll be fine!” He responded with a glint in his eye.

“In the meantime, while you all are working on your scenes, you will be doing weekly exercises with your partner.” Professor Min continued and the class groaned at her words. Everyone except... Lee fucking Felix. “These exercises will be in the most important thing you can have with anyone: trust. We will be doing various trust-building exercises in class and out of class for the next sixteen weeks. Every week I expect you to complete one of them and submit a reflection by Sunday at 11:59 pm. While I have some plans for in-class things, there is also a list of things you could do with your partner on the syllabus. There are more than sixteen so you are welcome to do more than that for a few points of extra credit. By the way, that will be the only extra credit I offer this semester. With that, let’s get into the grade breakdown...”

Eunbyeol flipped through to the page that listed all of the things she would have to do. Her eyes widened at the extensive list and nausea bubbled up within her at the thought of doing these things with Lee Felix. Hold hands for thirty minutes... stare into each other's eyes for twenty minutes... cook a meal together... read to each other...

What is this bullshit?

She glanced over at Felix who, like her, was perusing the list. However, he had a delighted smile plastered onto his soft features, making his eyes sparkle in the bright natural light. Felix, the last person Eunbyeol expected to see much less be paired with, looked over at her and balanced his chin with the palm of his hand. He smiled warmly at her. Her heart flip-flopped in her chest.

How obnoxious... ly hot.

“Alright, class. I am going to pass out your first pair assignment now.” Professor Min handed a stack of paper to a student in the front, who took one and passed it down. “On this page, there are three questions you’re going to ask your partner. Simple things, nothing too much. Write down their answers and on the back write a brief paragraph about first impressions. Once you’re done, you can leave for the day and we will start learning about genres in the next class. If you have any questions let me know.”

The room burst into conversation immediately. Eunbyeol glanced over at Hyunjin to see about talking to him instead of her partner, but he seemed to be invested in his. Eunbyeol then turned to look at Felix, who was already looking her up and down with an obnoxiously perfect smile on his face. Slowly, Felix leaned forward to whisper in her ear, sending chills down her spine involuntarily.

“I can’t wait to work on this project with you! I’m sure we’ll have a great time.” Felix shot her a wink and she scowled in response.

“As if!”

“Come on, it’s the perfect chance to catch up. We haven’t seen each other since high school!”

“Yes, and there is a very good reason for that.” Eunbyeol hissed.

“Here-” Felix produced a pen out of his bag and leaned over to scribble something on her syllabus. She tried to wrench her papers away from him, but his veiny hand kept them in place effortlessly. “When you decide you’d like to do well in this class, shoot me a text. Or, actually... you should give me your number, you probably won’t text me first.”

“What?” Eunbyeol blinked in surprise when Felix tilted his pen toward her and moved his syllabus closer.

“Sweetheart, like I’m sure you’re thinking right now, we’re stuck doing this together. Some of these dumb exercises are things we have to pre-plan, so we should talk about what we want to do. If you won’t give it to me, I’ll just get it from Hyunjin.” Felix rolled his eyes, taking a page from the stack handed to him before offering it to her. She took a page and passed it over her shoulder to Hyunjin. She didn’t miss how Hyunjin’s long fingers brushed over her own. “God, these questions are dumb. Let’s get this over with.”

“Fuck this,” Eunbyeol muttered, grabbing a pen from her backpack. She leaned over and wrote her digits on his paper before huffing and looking at the page. After reading the questions, she glanced up at Felix.

In high school, his eyes seemed to shimmer in the light and it was no different now. However, it was somewhat reassuring that he wasn’t exactly thrilled to see her either. On that, at least, Eunbyeol knew they could agree. Felix rolled his eyes, leaned back in his chair, and read off the first question to her. He ran his tongue along the inside of his cheek in annoyance. He glanced over the page at her and heaved a sigh.

Why is he hot even when he’s mad?!

“This is gonna be a long fucking semester, isn’t it?”

~!~!~!~!~!~

“Student Name: Cha Eunbyeol.

Partner Name: Lee Felix

Question 1: Why are you taking this class?

Answer: My (our?) best friend asked him to take it. It’s not in his major, but he said he didn’t want to be alone. They’re not partners now so I guess it didn’t work out.

Question 2: Three interesting facts about yourself?

Answer: One... He likes nutella toast way too much, I think it’s a problem. Two, he’s a music production major. Three, his favorite color is black.

Question 3: What is it that you hope to get out of this class?

Answer: Of course, he said friendship. He loves meeting new people and learning new things and he really thinks that this class will help him to learn how to develop relationships and work with difficult people to work towards a common goal.

Reflection: Professor, PLEASE let me switch partners. If anyone else is unhappy with their partner, I will HAPPILY switch with them. I know all of this is about trust but I wouldn’t even trust Lee Felix to spell his own name correctly, much less do the work. I do not like him and I don’t think we will be a good fit for this project. I’m scared of what will happen if I’m associated with him. What if... what if I don’t hate him?”

“Wow, Eunbyeol-ssi, it sounds like you have to learn to trust people a little more! The fact that you and him seem to clash is the exact reason I do this project every semester. Stick it out and all will be well! -Professor Min”

“Student Name: Lee Felix

Partner Name: Cha Eunbyeol

Question 1: Why are you taking this class?

Answer: Her best friend (also my best friend! Small world!) Hyunjin wanted her to take it so they could be partners for the project. They actually work well together. Also... this fills an elective requirement.

Question 2: Three interesting facts about yourself?

Answer: One: She hates the color black, she prefers blue. Two: She’s at KNU on a scholarship and if she drops this class, she’ll probably lose it. So, lucky for me Eunbyeol is stuck here. Three: She really likes to dance. (I knew that already, but she wouldn’t change her answer.)

Question 3: What is it that you hope to get out of this class:

Answer: She hopes to get out of this class alive. (Sorry, she didn’t give me a better answer before she left.)

Reflection: Honestly, we knew each other in high school but she hasn’t changed much. She likes things done her way and she really doesn’t like me. Unfortunately for her, I think she’s great and I’m super excited to get to work with her on this. I really hope that some of these trust exercises will help bring us a little closer together. If anything, I just want to be her friend. Chances are, she’ll be dramatic about it for a few weeks and then she’ll do it.”

“Felix-ssi, you have your hands full! Normally I wouldn’t share this, but she asked to switch partners. If things were bad, I would allow it. However, it sounds to me like you really care for her and you want to put in the work to do the project and to build your relationship with Eunbyeol. I’ll be rooting for you! -Professor Min”

17 notes · View notes

call-sign-shark · 9 months

Note

Hi, Shark! I paused for a while my chaotic morning. I didn't stopped since 7am (it's 2pm here now) and my back said, bitch, calm down 😂. So, I listened to my body, I'm in bed now, and I decided to send you something I thought yesterday:

Would Heaven fall in love with the other Arthur (Rat's Arthur)? And vice versa, what about Rat and canon! Arthur?

I know they're the same character, but still there are differences between both of them.

🤔

Hey baby Flor, thank you so much for your awesome question because this is so clever and got me thinking a lot. But before answering, I hope you are feeling better and that your back doesn’t hurt anymore. I’m sending you a wild Alfie to massage your sore back! 😌

Regarding Modern!Arthur, even if I try to keep him as canon as possible, the modern context in which he evolves ultimately changes a lot of things in his character. For example, even with anger management issues he cannot just go in a boxing ring and kill a boy with his bare fists without the slightest consequences. Same goes for slashing someone’s face out of jealousy. Regarding his mental illnesses, they also have to be kept under a minimum of control to fit our modern society. While we still need to make progress in treatments of mental illnesses, the access to therapy is easier nowadays than it was in the 1920’s. Which explains why he has some kind of self-control, and is less prone to emotional outbursts than his Peaky Blinders Self. Taking this into account, we can conclude that they are different. Now we can answer the question properly.

Heaven and Modern!Arthur: In a modern setting, they would still fall for each others. I like to think them as soul mates who find each other in every life. Moreover she has this supernatural ability to calm down wild spirits, which is something Arthur needs even in a modern setting. They would meet right after his divorce with Linda, and would have helped him overcome his drug addictions — contrary to the canon!version in which he kinda cheats on Linda with her but is also already clean. Besides, she is also quick witted and bratty, which are traits he appreciates a lot. I guess she’s just more subtle than Rat, who goes full berserk 🤣

Also, what kind of job Modern!Heaven would have? War doctor, forensic doc, nurse, something else?

Rat and canon!Arthur: Here comes the trouble. Arthur and Rat would not fall in love with each other. At least not in a conventional way. Rat is too brutal and unpredictable, while Arthur lacks of control and is mentally unstable, so they would end up fighting with fists for real. Also, Rat would not be able to bring the softness and care Arthur needs. I don’t think he would be happy with a brutal and straight-forward girlfriend. Imo, Arthur needs a woman with an iron fist in a velvet glove. Someone who’s soft, gentle with him, but who’s still in charge. That’s partly why the first version of Heaven could not work — she was way too similar to Rat.

I can picture them meeting on the boxing gym, beating the shit out of each other regularly (like. Really hard.), and then getting high and drunk together, maybe fucking rough like animals, but they won’t be good for each other. Rat is also a very traumatized character: she would not be able to carry both her past and Arthur’s trauma/problems on her shoulders. Surprisingly, they wouldn’t hate each other. Pretty sure they could even grow close. But ultimately their relationship would be quite destructive and I don’t think their love-story would end well. *coughs* Rat would prolly overdose or get killed during a boxing fight *cough*

Note: Rat is shaking Modern!Arthur like a tree while yelling “eh see? She called you Rat’s Arthur. You’re my property now, dumbass. Go make me mojito.”

• Heaven is reader in the ongoing Arthur Shelby x Reader!OC séries Heaven in Your Eyes || Latest chapter here

• Rat is reader in the Modern!Arthur Shelby concept Loose Cannon.

#Heaven Shelby #Arthur Shelby #Arthur Shelby x reader #Arthur Shelby x oc #Heaven in your eyes #peaky blinders #Peaky blinders imagine #Peaky blinders oc

9 notes · View notes

neo-shitty · 2 years

Text

24/8 — skz.

“time flows in the same way for all human beings; all human beings flow through time in a different way.” - yasunari kabawata, beauty and sadness

i think it’s safe to say we’ve all been awake on each hour the day has to offer.

i’m not talking about all-nighters where you’re awake for almost all 24. i mean midnights at cafes, parties reaching the early hours of the day, and the ‘oh fuck, is that the sun?’ moments after realizing you haven’t slept a wink yet...again. basically, just the concept of being physically awake both in daylight and on hours that you shouldn’t be.

this is 24/8, a stray kids drabble collab hosted by yours truly. the prompt for this is simple: where are you during these hours if you aren’t asleep?

guidelines for writing.

˗ˏˋ following the prompt, you can write about anything that could happen in the time you have chosen. you could write about being half-asleep at a 24-hour food chain after a concert at 1AM, or getting tailed by the police at 4, or calling in sick at 9 when you don’t feel like it, or staying after hours at the office or at school in the early evening. as long as both mc and the member are awake, it’s cool.

˗ˏˋ additionally, in-fic pairings should only be member x reader or member x oc. no member x member, please.

˗ˏˋ as this is a drabble collab, typical timestamps are okay (theme literally revolves around it). however, reactions and headcanons are not allowed.

˗ˏˋ all themes are welcome so long as they are labelled accordingly. smut and suggestive content are allowed, however i do not condone smut written by minors, writing with themes of pedophilia, incest, noncon or dubcon.

˗ˏˋ as i didn’t want to put much pressure on conceptualizing an hour-long (in-fic) story, the fics should be as short as possible. there will be no minimum word count but there will be a not-so-mandatory cap max which will be 2k words. i will not be that strict with the limit though. feel free to write as much or as little as you want so long as you do not stray (*wink) from the theme.

˗ˏˋ the deadline of entries will be on june 30, 2022. should you feel the need for an extension, please let me know via ask or dm!

how to join.

˗ˏˋ pick any of the available time slots listed below and pick a member (there are 3 slots each!) then send me an ask or dm stating the two and await for my confirmation.

˗ˏˋ please reblog this post so we can fill in all the spots. i know 24 is a huge number to fill up for 8 members but i’m still lowkey hoping that we could.

˗ˏˋ tag me on your fic when you post it so i can reblog and add it to the masterlist!

check out the collab masterlist here!

entries:

12AM - 1AM - kim seungmin | @soulssung

1AM - 2AM - kim seungmin | @starlostseungmin

2AM - 3AM - lee minho | @chogiwow

3AM - 4AM - bang chan | @/lixesque

4AM - 5AM - seo changbin | @sword6empress

5AM - 6AM - lee minho | @straykits

6AM - 7AM - seo changbin | @bbhlover *

7AM - 8AM - bang chan | @sulfurcosmos

8AM - 9AM - lee felix | @petrichor-han

9AM - 10AM - bang chan | @gwynsapphire

10AM - 11AM - kim seungmin | @lixesque

11AM - 12NN - lee felix | @xiaojunsmintchoco *

12PM - 1PM - han jisung | @kpop-stories-21

1PM - 2PM - yang jeongin | @misosick

2PM - 3PM - hwang hyunjin | @decembermoonskz

3PM - 4PM - hwang hyunjin | @/neo-shitty

4PM - 5PM - seo changbin | @straydestiny

5PM - 6PM - lee minho | @violixs

6PM - 7PM - han jisung | @crispy-chan

7PM - 8PM - yang jeongin | @luvhyun3 *

8PM - 9PM - lee felix | @late-minhours

9PM - 10PM - hwang hyunjin | @starlighthan

10PM - 11PM - han jisung | @minilinooo

11PM - 12AM - yang jeongin | @pastelsicheng

toffee’s note. haha, a little something for 1.2k :3 i know i said i’ll no longer host collabs yet here we are. the idea for this started here, if you’re interested. also thank you so much for reading up to this far. and if you’re choosing to participate, i’m glad to have you here and thank you for your interest!

#skz #skz smut #skz fics #skz fluff #skz angst #skz x reader #stray kids #stray kids smut #stray kids fluff #stray kids angst #collab: 24/8

137 notes · View notes

ask-the-tf2-mercs · 1 year

Text

( pinned )

Do Not Reblog This Post

this post may update from time to time

Info About Shipping | Ask AUs | The Intern

(mobile users: use the link in my bio)

all OOC posts will be tagged: "//mundeez nuts" all fanart posts will be tagged: "//mannmail"

Asks will be posted at 10AM, 2PM, and 5PM CT (Central Time) Fanart will be posted at 12PM CT (Central Time)

( all info about the blog and mod under cut )

Blog Rules

"why hasn't my ask been posted yet?" I queue / schedule posts, and often I have several days in queue. chances are it's in there and will be posted at some point so I ask you to be patient. however, there is always the possibility it's one I deleted either due to me not knowing how to respond, or not feeling comfortable responding

this is not an RP blog. I may be roleplaying as the Mercs answering your questions, but please do not send asks roleplaying as yourself or your characters, and please do not reply to posts doing so either

please keep your questions directed to no more than three Mercs at a time. if you have a question for more than three, I encourage you to ask my main headcanon blog, doobnnoob-tf2 and I will go on and answer that for the whole team. this is because the Mercs will most likely be interacting with each other on the post and I don't want them getting too long

vague asks will be deleted. i.e, asks not directed at anyone in particular; "this is for whoever sees it", "for any of the mercs", "to whoever opens the letter", etc.

do not god-mode your way into forcing a reaction. this means either by spamming asks to try and change the answer to fit your narrative, or sending an ask where you detail out how you want the Merc(s) in question to react. this is a headcanon blog, accept I will respond how I think they would

there is no RED vs BLU. this blog follows "actual" canon, not in-game canon. as in, the comics. there may be asks that reference the BLU team but I will no longer be doing so to avoid confusion

transformation/"specific scenario" asks (for lack of better description) are their own AU. things like Pyro being a dragon, TentaSpy/TentaScout, etc. are all their own timelines separate from any general asks. this is to reduce people spamming "and now I've fixed it" asks in the inbox

do not tag/reply to/reblog a post with things like "kin" or "me" or anything of the sort, especially not "self-ship". it makes me uncomfortable

for personal reasons, I will not answer genderbent asks or child-related asks

no questions pertaining to Merc x Reader/OC/generic S/O character. I'm willing to tackle ficlets involving these topics, however I would prefer to be paid for them as they require a lot of work to get right

if you intend on reblogging a post just to "correct" it, I encourage you to simply make your own post. it's simply rude and uncalled for

this is a SFW only blog. do not send non-SFW or even suggestive asks. I will not give warnings about this, I will just block you - anonymous or not

you can ask other characters questions. Pauling, the Administrator, Saxton, Bidwell, etc. however these may not always be answered, depending on how well I feel like I can portray that character at the time

BYF

I wish to reiterate this: this is NOT a roleplay blog. please do not follow/interact with the hopes of roleplaying with this blog

that said, I may be willing to be lenient on the above rule in the future, but at this current moment in time I'd like people to respect this

I block pretty freely, plain and simple. I'm here to enjoy myself and my time as much as everyone else, and that means limiting people who indulge in content that makes me uncomfortable from interacting with my blog

if you are a proshipper, you're disgusting and fuck off. you're not welcome here

I may not answer every ask. either because I can't think of a good answer, or it's a topic I'm just not comfortable answering. but I will try to get to everything I can

I'm very picky about ships I'll answer things for on this blog, please see my shipping page for more information. and please do not tag non shipping posts as shipping

About the Mod

Daniel / Mundy / Aster

he/vamp/bat, gay-ace transman

28, Oct. 6

CARRD

main tf2/headcanon blog ⛧ furry art blog ⛧ personal blog

I am open to roleplaying outside of this blog! however, only with people 18+ since I myself am an adult

#//mundeez nuts

47 notes · View notes

bananachipfantasy · 5 months

Text

Hello, I'm Ulises, I'm bigender and I'm from Argentina.

I use any pronouns, but specially I feel very comfortable with He/him or They/them. Also She/Her is good for me. :)

I can speak English and Spanish. And my cc comfortable characters are Riley Davies, Rick Lewis, Mackenzie Herring, Adelia Baldwin, Maddie O'Malley, Frank Knight, Amy Young, Celeste Alouest, Ben Shepherd, etc.

Want me to draw something? Just ask!

I do:

-Fanarts.

-OC's.

-Headcanons

-Ships (But with a limit. And if it's OC x Canon, show me that isn't pro ship).

I don't do:

-Nsfw (pls, i'm a minor).

-Complex background.

-Pro ships/fanarts.

Etc.

Game fandoms:

Mortal Kombat, Criminal Case, that's not my neighbour, Lobotomy Corporation, FNAF, FNAF fangames, yo kai watch, Papa's gameria, the binding of Isaac (this game accompanied me throughout my childhood), etc.

Other fandoms: Good omens, TD (Any season, but specially revenge of the island), aggretsuko, Fiona and Cake, Adventure Time, Heartstopper, south park, etc.

Kpop fandoms:

Forestella, Infinite, Golden child, EXO, E'last, Skz, BTS, NCT, VAV, Winner, Ikon, Blitzers, TXT, Enhypen, Seventeen, 2PM, etc.

If you don't like my LGBT Headcanons for X reason, that's fine, isn't in me what you think or opinion. Just don't throw hate at me or impose your HC, share them freely in the comments. :D

And if you are going to make a request for a drawing/Headcanons, be nice, as soon as you are rude I'll block you. Btw, I like to chat, we can become friends while you ask me for something or you can tell me your anecdotes.

DM open.

3 notes · View notes

crowleyesce · 9 months

Text

Hello!

I’m crowleyesce, but you can just call me Crow ^^ I also use any pronouns ~

- I’m multifandom! (my interests change super often and when I like one thing I lose most interest in the other fsghdn sorry in advance for sudden changes in posts)

- I’ll probably post mainly OCs/Fan-OCs, but I’m not gonna hold myself to anything ! I’m trying to post art every day around 2pm est, and to keep it daily not everything is gonna be finished art. my tag is #crowleydoodles !

- You can find me on Instagram and Twitter (i refuse to call it X 😭) with the same @!

Thanks for reading! 🖤

1 note · View note

theprofessionalpromptmaker · 16 days

Text

About the Blog/Pinned Post (Update)

Updated: 4/14/2024

Hello! I’m Mod Poss, the sole founder and admin of this blog. Here at the Professional Prompt Maker, I write a ton of prompts. But this blog is unique from other prompt blogs: my askbox is an uncensored and judgment free zone, because I will write prompts for taboo topics (ex: incest, age gaps, cannibalism, etc.)*.

*NOTE: Specifically NSFW prompts are only available to my patrons.

Support Needed! I am in a horrible situation right now and heavily struggling financially! If you can, please Donate via Ko-fi, Commission Me via Email ([email protected]), or Join My Patreon!

Posting Schedule (Central Time)

8AM to 9AM (Sat & Sun Only) - 3 Dialogue Prompts 2PM to 3PM - Requests (CLOSED) 5PM - Obscure Holidays Prompts (Holidays collected from this site[x]) 6PM to 8pm (Fri Only) - Mod Poss OC Talk & Personal Questions Answered Friday - Weekly Update

Prompt Usage/Crediting

The blog must be credited somewhere on your piece, for both commercial and noncommercial use! Please credit as “The Professional Prompt Maker on Tumblr” or “theprofessionalpromptmaker.tumblr.com”.

Links

Tags Page (OUTDATED)

Randomizer (Warning: No Tags)

Calendar

All Prompts

Extra Services I Do For Money:

Beta Reading for Fantasy (with a focus on helping with worldbuilding, specifically magic systems, cultural aspects, gender/sexuality, and basic biology/environments) - prices vary (currently available to select patrons only)

Prompt Request Commissions (will only be sent to commissioner, never posted) - $2 per prompt created ($1 per prompt for select patrons) Note: Comissions accepted via Ko-fi or Email ([email protected])

Commission Writing for your OCs (“fanfictions” for your OCs with your oversight,) - prices TBA (patrons prioritized)

(More to come)

Recommended Sites & Tools (Not Mine)

For Worldbuilding:

This PDF (HARP Folkways for $15) -- an RPG guide that breaks down aspects of real world cultures to help you design your own cultures. Invaluable to me.

Azgaar’s Fantasy Map Generator (Free) -- a very in-depth and detailed mapmaker with all sorts of cool tidbits. Nothing has ever quite sparked my worldbuilding like designing a map that tells me the temperature, altitude, biomes, etc. of the countries/cities/worlds I’m designing. So much is customizable too, so don’t feel limited by what the map generates/suggests. All the details this map maker has really makes me reconsider clothing, holidays, architecture, etc. since so much about a society is shaped by it’s environment (works very well with the Folkways culture guide). [+ the creator has a Patreon]

MyNoise -- an ambience maker I am currently loving due to all the great high quality ambiences the creator makes and has up on their site.

[More to come]

Want more?

I also have a Patreon and (coming soon!) a SubscribeStar for this blog - some goodies there include:

[NOTE: SubscribeStar is currently available but under construction]

Prompt request & obscure holiday overflow from Tumblr* ($5+)

View patron requested prompts & random weekday prompts + writing craft rants/advice ($10+)

Request prompts NSFW & SFW that will ONLY post on Patreon + receive 10+ prompts per request** ($15+)

Purchase Patreon exclusive prompts*** & Commission private/never-to-be-posted prompts ($25+)

Beta reading & Worldbuilding help*** ($50+/limited slots)

*If I receive a free request and write more than 5 prompts for it, all prompts past the first 5 will only be posted to my Patreon. **Compared to 5 prompts per request on Tumblr. ***Details on Patreon.

And if you just want to help me not be broke, here’s my Ko-Fi!

#mod poss #(updated pinned post using the new text post)

0 notes

seawitch62 · 2 years

Text

Catnip Man at Work

Part Twelve of the Catnip Man Series

Jeonghan x OC (Rose)

Fluff

WC: 1.1k

Catnip Man Masterlist

Rose ends the call.

A Vlog with Lee Junho.

Wow.

Short of staff due to Covid, their misfortune my luck she muses.

SF9 are Gods she mutters but 2PM….

A league of their own.

EspeciallyJunho.

Wow.

Today is my lucky day.

I don’t want nobody else but you but you

cause no one makes me feel

I don’t want nobody else but you but you

Smiling today is going to be great as she sings 'Nobody else'.

"Fuck" she utters I was a idiot.

Remembering her initial introduction to Lee Junho, I was gushing, fangirling, I am supposed to be a professional.

How embarrassing.

He was nice, amused even, guess he's used to it.

He looks pretty fine, though, she grins.

Following him in her vehicle, the other staff do the same.

She vows to herself, to be professional from this moment.

Usually SF9 blasts through the car speakers but in lieu of today she decides 2PM.

'Was it her perfume?

My nose responded to it

Was it her outfit?

My fingertips reached for you

Excuse me, do you have a minute?'

Junho makes an exit, Rose and the other staff follow suit.

"Hungry, got a craving for steamed buns" he explains walking towards the premises.

Junho exits the bakery with a friend.

"Oh No!"

Rose stares in disbelief.

Catnip Man.

Jeonghan.

"What the fuck is he doing here?"

She exclaims under her breath.

Junho explains he ran into Jeonghan and he kindly offered to join the Vlog.

'Shit Shit' she mutters.

Junho introduces Jeonghan to the staff, when he turns to Rose.

"Hello Kitty, imagine seeing you here" Catnip man smiles.

"Oh you know each other? Great!"Junho smiles.

Be professional, you're a professional, Rose tells herself "yes" she replies with a tight smile.

"Rose, should ride with us, don't you agree hyung?"Jeonghan states.

"Yeah sure why not"

"My car" she blurts out.

"We can pick it up later, kitty".

Mumbling "sure"

Rose hops in the backseat Jeonghan joins her.

'Odd thought he would sit up front' Junho thinks to himself.

Junho turns the camera back on and makes intros and greetings explaining how the current situation came to pass.

"Hot hot hot!" Junho yelps as he is videoing the buns tossing them to and fro between his hands.

"Kitty, help my hyung!"

Rose grabs the steaming hot buns, and breaks them apart, swearing under her breath as she burns her fingertips.

"No need, but thank you" an awkward Junho states before biting into the bun.

"Are you okay kitty? Let me see!"

Jeonghan blows on her fingertips, his eyes never leaving her face, then he gently puts her fingers in his mouth.

"OMG will you stop!" Says a very embarrassed Rose.

Junho, staring through his rear view mirror, "well let's get going".

Junho while driving continues his Vlog, 'such a nice guy' she thinks to herself.

Jeonghan randomly talks to the camera but mostly he plays with his kitty's hair.

Rose slides herself further away from him till she is slammed against the door frame.

Slapping his hands away as if he is a pesky fly.

'Be professional, you're a professional'

Junho, for his part, carries on, a true professional.

Finally the vehicle stops.

Rose all but falls out of the car when the door is opened.

Junho explains, he loves nature.

So a walk is the order of the day as he grabs his new camera, time to take some shots.

"Bugs. Insects" Junho says loudly.

"Kitty, why aren't you helping my hyung!"

Totally confused as to what she is supposed to do, she tries to swish the insects away.

"No no no!" As he walks towards her, "like this".

Catnip man has his hands all over Rose, chasing off real and imagined insects.

Insects forgotten Junho watches the Catnip man at work.

"Will you stop!," his Kitty tells him in a very low disgruntled tone.

The spectacle he is causing is gaining attention.

"Please stop".

"Let's go" Junho inputs as he walks away.

Junho spots some gorgeous flowers and stops to take photos.

Jeonghan picks one, "kitty take my photo" as he places the flower between his teeth.

Click click click.

Handing Rose the flower, "for you my love".

Rose inspects the chewed stem, covered with salvia.

"Thanks".

"Do you hear that?," an excited Junho takes off following the sound.

A stream, beautifully situated with the backdrop of trees and green foliage.

Junho at once takes video and still shots.

"I take lousy selfies," he utters.

Jeonghan starts walking along the rock path within the stream.

"Kitty come on, this is cool"

Junho looks at her expecting her to join Jeonghan.

'Professional your a professional'

She does as she is directed.

Catnip man takes hold of her hand, struggling to free her hand she slips on a rock landing butt first into the stream.

A stunned silence followed by boisterous laughter.

Rose is not laughing.

Offering an outstretched hand, which is totally ignored, a chagrined Jeonghan explains "It's a nice day, you will dry off quickly, don't be a sour puss".

Back in the vehicle, Junho tells them the next stop is the grocery store.

As Junho fills the shopping cart with goodies, and finally decides on beef.

Jeonghan adds pasta and other items he warrants are a must.

Next stop as Junho explains is the rental in which he is spending the night.

Catnip man looks at Rose, he winks, " let's get a room!".

Totally ignoring him at this point they arrive at the rental.

"How did I get stuck cooking?"

From time to time Junho takes the tongs and videos himself cooking then returns the tongs to her.

"Let me help" offers Jeonghan as he stands behind her, one hand on her waist the other tossing the beef over the flames grill.

"Keep still, unless of course you want to get burned" he whispers.

"I think of more enjoyable ways to heat things up" he murmurs sensuously.

Finally the food is cooked. The meal prepared.

Time to eat.

"What's that?" As Jeonghan wipes Rose's mouth.

"I missed a bit"

Lips meet lips.

"I got it" he winks at surprised Rose.

The Vlog shoot is done. Time to wrap up and go home.

"Kitty let's get a room, I'm your Catnip your my kitty, I'm in the mood for sexual gymnastics"

as his hand squeezes her butt cheeks.

Rose can go with other staff members retrieve her vehicle and go home

Get a room and enjoy sexual gymnastics with Catnip man

Decisions decisions 😝

1 note · View note

xwayscenarios · 3 years

Text

Higher

Genre: Fluff, College AU, Enemies to Lovers

Word count: 4305

Character(s): Jang Wooyoung (2PM) x OC (Bec)

Warnings: Some swearing, 18+

Part: [FINAL]

For @pcypuddings 😈😁💕

“Bec!” A voice sounded out in the quiet study area in the library, which only made multiple people shhh the owner of the voice. “Oh, shush yourself.” Bec, instantly knowing the owner of the voice, only chuckled before she looked up from her notes and at the approaching girl in front of her.

“What can I do for you, Ash?” Bec smiled as she watched her sit down.

“So, there’s this party tonight at Khun’s…” She started off before being cut off by Bec raising her hand.

“I am gonna stop you there, I’m not going.”

“But why?” Ashleigh questioned as she looked at Bec, slightly confused as to why she down right rejected the idea before she even was able to finish what she was all going to say. Hearing the question only made Bec look at her with the look of “really?”. “Is it because of a certain guy who happens to be best friends with Khun?”

“What do you think, Ash?” Bec stated before looking back down at the book in front of her, continuing to write notes.

“Come on, Bec. You should go regardless of that moron. Loren will be there.”

“And you and I both know that she will not leave her man’s side.”

“Well, if she knows that you will be there, she’ll be by you to make sure Woo doesn’t bother you. She’s practically like the mom of our little group. If I can be away from Khun to make sure Woo doesn’t annoy you, then so can she with her beau.” Ash said as her gaze never left Bec, even though she wasn’t looking at her.

“Well, I can’t anyway because I have…”

“Don’t you dare say homework because I know you finished everything you needed to PLUS the assignments for next week. So, you cannot use that as an excuse. Nor the studying part either, because you’ve been studying all week, you need a break. Let loose and have some fun at the party.” Ash said as she tried to close the book that Bec was currently writing notes down for.

“If I say I will go, will you leave me alone to finish this?” Bec sighed before looking away from the book and up to her friend that was sitting across from her.

“Yes, I promise I will go bug Loren instead.” Ash smiled.

“Fine, I’ll go.”

“Thank you, thank you, thank you!” Ash quickly got up and hugged her tightly. “You will not regret this at all.” Bec only chuckled as she shook her head at Ash’s excitement.

“Now go find Loren and bug her like you promised.” Bec smiled at her.

“Yes ma’am!” Ash smiled back at her before practically running off and out of the library. Bec shaking her head at the sight before resuming her work.

********

Bec sighed as she walked up to this frat party that she somehow got roped into by Ash, a girlfriend of one of the members of said frat, Nichkhun. His frat was known to be a bunch of partiers but they were also some of the smartest guys in the school…shockingly because just by looking at them, or by how many parties they tended to have, you wouldn’t have thought so. Well, except Nichkhun, even though he still gave off the frat boy vibe, he still also gave off the vibe of being a good student. Out of the other five, you couldn’t tell unless you saw them at what they were good at. Due to Loren dating Minjun, pretty much the unofficial head of this frat, even though Taecyeon was the president of it, she got to see Minjun in action with his music production and he was pretty serious when it came to that. There were many days that Bec and Ash went to Minjun’s studio to pick up Loren and saw Minjun working diligently on whatever project or idea he had at the time. Loren always went there while he was working to get her own work done while still being able to spend time with him, she had invited them multiple times to do work there with her since it was chill enough to study in.

That said studio was where she had first met the infamous Woo. His full name being Jang Wooyoung, one of the biggest playboys on campus. He was one of those typical frat boys who could get any girl he wanted. Not like he was ever serious with any of said girls. She could maybe count two times that he had any sort of relationship with a girl that was what he considered serious, which pretty much meant that they were fuck buddies for longer than a month. He left a trail of broken hearts wherever he went. Bec would admit that he was handsome and sexy as hell, it was his cocky attitude thinking if he would smile that dazzling smile at whatever girl it was aimed at, that they would fall to his feet and be at his mercy. He kept trying that with her after a few times they had met due to the mutual friends dating each other, which was why he probably annoyed the hell out of her. He would give her crap about studying and turning her “beautiful self” into one of those typical history major nerds, which only ticked her off more. Ever since then, she tried to avoid him at all costs and whenever she had to be around him, she had made sure to stay far enough away. There were days when even Ash and Loren would stay with her to make sure he didn’t try anything to annoy her.

“Who are you trying to impress with that outfit?” Bec heard the voice of Ash call out over the loud music as soon as she had walked into the house. Bec looked over in the direction she thought she had heard her voice come from and saw said girl walking up to her.

“Who says that I can’t just look good on my own without anyone to impress?” Bec raised her brow up at her before Ash let out a chuckle.

“Touche, touche~.” Ash smiled before linking her arm with Bec’s and pulling her into the house more and towards the kitchen. As much as Bec would deny it, she has been in that house to know where everything was at this point. It was mainly because of her need to avoid Wooyoung at all costs, just so she wouldn’t start an argument with him over something stupid he had said to her about her or just something in general. So, for the sake of her friends, she didn’t want to start something with him and always just avoided him at all costs. Plus, it also meant that she would also avoid the sickening sight of him wooing girls left and right, which aggravated her to no avail. Why it did was something she never came to a conclusion about. As they arrived in the kitchen, Bec immediately began glancing around to see if there was any sight of Wooyoung, just so she could prepare herself for whatever annoying thing he may do or say…or even both.

“Don’t worry, he’s not in here.” Her gaze immediately whipped over to the direction of where the deeper voice came from and saw Junho, one of the six frat members, leaning against the middle island with a smirk on his face as he took a sip of his drink.

“Who says I am even looking for him?”

“Well now the fact that you didn’t even ask who I was talking about, proves that you are…well, were.” Junho chuckled a bit before looking over at Ash. “Where’s Khun?”

“You think I know all of his whereabouts?”

“Since you’re his girlfriend, yes.” He smiled, making his eyes almost disappear as he did. Both Bec and Ash saw Loren walking up behind him before smacking the back of his head.

“Go bother someone else, Junho. I’m quite sure there are many girls here willing to be bothered by you.”

“Oh, look who graced us with her presence, done giving some to Minjun?”

“At least he’s getting some, unlike you.” Loren smiled and ruffled his hair.

“I…get some…” Junho mumbled with a slight pout as he took a sip of his drink.

“Who’s getting some?” The voice that came from behind both Bec and Ash asked. That said voice instantly made Bec tense up, knowing exactly who it was without even looking at them.

“Not Junho.” Loren smiled before walking over to Bec and grabbing her arm to pull her away from where Woo was standing. The action only made Wooyoung raise his eyebrow up at her before he came to realize who it was that she had pulled towards her.

“Well look who’s here… the little history book worm. Finally decided to get your nose out of the books and into present day?” Wooyoung smirked as he went and stood over by Junho, leaning against the counter to look at Bec closer.

“Woo…” Junho spoke softly to him as a slight warning to watch what he says and does after that.

“Don’t you have some skank to flirt into a stupor so you can bed her easier?” Bec shot back with a smirk of her own, which only made Junho choke on his drink. “Cause it’s not like you can do it while she’s not dazed by your so-called ‘charms’.”

“If I wasn’t charming, then how did she get so dazed, hmm?”

“I…”

“Exactly. Point 1 for me. Zero for the history nerd who probably hasn’t gotten any sort of action that didn’t require a history book to read about.” Wooyoung smirked and walked out of the kitchen with Junho in tow. Both Loren and Ash looked at each other before looking at Bec, who was obviously fuming at what Wooyoung had just said.

“Bec…” Ash started off saying as she went to reach for her arm.

“Who the hell does he think he is?!” Bec scoffed as she grabbed two shots that were on the counter and downed them both before grabbing two more and doing the same. “Just because I study a lot, doesn’t mean I don’t get anything!”

“Bec don’t worry about him. He’s not worth your time thinking over.” Ash said before looking over at Loren who tried to subtly move the shots away before Bec would grab more.

“You know what, you’re right.” Bec nodded before quickly grabbing another shot, tossing it back like it was nothing. “Let’s go party.” Bec quickly walked out of the kitchen and into the large group of people who happened to be congregating in the living room. Both Ash and Loren tried to follow but I got caught in a traffic jam of people who decided that was the best time for them to come into the kitchen for more drinks.

After an hour or so, the girls finally found Bec in the crowd, thanks to the help of Chansung since he was dancing with her.

“Hey Bec! Let’s get you outside for some fresh air.” Loren said and grabbed her hand to begin to lead her out of the living room and back towards the kitchen.

“Do you know how much she’s had to drink?” Ash asked Chansung who only shook his head.

“I have no idea. She dragged me in to start dancing with her. Saying something about proving a point to Woo. I could tell she’s drunk but not super drunk yet.” Chansung said to Ash, who only sighed and walked away after mumbling a thank you to him. She finally caught up with the Loren and Bec as Loren was grabbing a bottle of water for Bec to drink.

“Woo is such an idiot. Yeah, he’s hot and all but…” Bec started off before Ash cut her off.

“I know, Bec.” Ash began to say as she led her out the back door onto the patio. Loren followed behind after making sure that no one followed them out there. The last thing Bec needed was someone hearing what she was all saying about Wooyoung.

“God, he’s so aggravating! Every time I see him, I just want to punch his dumb face! Then he can’t be able to easily charm anyone.” Bec said as she sat down on the outdoor couch that was out there, leaning back against the cushions with her arms crossed. “And then he can’t claim to get any girl he wants. Which is a total lie! Because he can’t get me! You know what…”

“What?” Both Loren and Ash asked slowly, looking at each other before looking back at her.

“I should get with someone tonight, just to prove that idiot wrong! Maybe Chansung! He’s single right?”

“Are you sure you want to do that just to spite him?” Loren asked. “How much did you drink while you were away from us?” Ash looked at her like she was crazy for even suggesting what she did.

“Chansung doesn’t even know how much she had before we found her because when she dragged him into dance with her, she was already, according to him, drunk.” Ash sighed and ran a hand through her hair.

“Lovely.” Loren sighed as well before trying to hand the bottle of water to Bec. “Please drink this.”

“I think I am gonna find one of the boys and get it on with one of them… just to rub it in Woo’s face that I got some, and with one of his friends too.” Bec said with a slight slur as she stood up, quickly heading back into the house before Ash and Loren could stop her.

********

Bec sighed and ran a hand through her hair before looking out of the window that was next to the table she usually sat at in the library. She had been there for most of the day already, just trying to keep her mind off of what Wooyoung had said a few days prior as well as the fact that she even had the idea of having sex with one of the other frat members just to spite him and prove him wrong. She was thankful both Loren and Ash had stopped her and made her sit outside with them to sober up enough to send her home to sleep the rest of it off.

“Why am I not that surprised that you are here? Books all over the table… truly living up to your bookworm title here, aren’t you?” Bec groaned at the voice who had said that before turning to look away from the view outside the window and to Wooyoung, who now decided to sit across from her.

“What the hell do you want, Wooyoung? I am so not in the mood to deal with you today… or ever.”

“Oh come on, you know you enjoy my presence.” Wooyoung smirked which only made her scoff as she began to start closing the books and other things in front of her.

“Oh, you are sowrong on that.” Bec shook her head and put all but one book in her backpack.

“Nah, I think you are the wrong one here.” Wooyoung shrugged as he leaned back in the chair and looked around the area they were currently in.

“And why do you think that?” Bec stopped what she was doing to look at him with a brow raised.

“Because I can tell that you want me, babe.” He half smiled, half smirked at her.

“Babe? Babe. Yeah, sure, okay.” Bec rolled her eyes and went to stand up, slipping her backpack on and beginning to walk away from him.

“Stop denying it. I can totally tell you think of me when you try to get yourself off since, like I said before, you can’t get action that isn’t from a history book!” Wooyoung called out which only made Bec stop in her tracks, turning to glare at him before tossing the book that she was currently carrying in her arms at his head. That said book hitting him hard in the head, causing him to yelp in pain. “What the fuck?!”

“You’re such an ass! God! How the hell does anyone put up with you?!” Bec turned on her heel and stormed off, leaving Wooyoung there holding his head in pain.

********

“So, she threw a book at you?” Chansung asked, trying to clarify what Wooyoung all just told him, while trying not to laugh at his friend’s pain.

“Yes, she did.” Wooyoung glared at Chansung, still holding the ice pack he got from the campus nurse against the area on his head the heavy book hit him when Bec had chucked it after what he had said to her.

“What did you say to her to make her throw a book at you?” Both him and Chansung jumped a little at the voice before they both looked over towards the kitchen. Their gaze stopping at the island in the kitchen where they both did not realize that Loren was sitting at, looking like she was doing some studying of her own.

“God, we really need to put a bell on you. You’re like a ninja...” Chansung said with a chuckle before Wooyoung interrupted.

“How long have you been sitting there?” Wooyoung asked. “Why aren’t you with Minjun?”

“Does that really matter right now?” Loren rolled her eyes as she looked over at Wooyoung, closing her laptop in the process. “Now, what did you say to Bec to make her chuck a book at you?”

“I don’t want to say.” Wooyoung mumbled, knowing what he said truly was something he shouldn’t have said to her…especially in public like that.

“See… that answer just makes me want to know more.”

“I’ll tell you!” Chansung smiled as he got up quickly, making sure he was out of reach from Wooyoung, knowing he’d try to stop him. He walked over to Loren and leaned down to whisper into her ear. As soon as she heard what Chansung told her, her eyes widened.

“Jang Wooyoung!” She threw the closest thing she had at him, which happened to be her own little book.

“What is with people throwing books at me?!”

“You deserved it! You’re lucky I don’t kill you.” Loren huffed before gathering her things and leaving, pushing her way past Minjun who had just walked in.

“Hi…babe?” He watched Loren leave before looking between the two guys in the kitchen. “What did you two do?”

“It was all him.” Chansung quickly said with his hands up in defense as he nodded his head towards Wooyoung.

“You’re the one that told her, so, you did something too!” Wooyoung countered.

“I wasn’t the one that said what pissed her off like that.” Chansung scoffed. The two continued to bicker back and forth, making Minjun roll his eyes and head towards the fridge to get something to drink.

“Do I want to know what they are arguing about now?” He heard the voice of Taecyeon ask, looking over at him walking into the kitchen, looking like he just got back from one of his classes, Nichkhun following in soon after.

“One or both of those yahoos said and or did something to piss off Loren to the point she stormed out of here.” Minjun sighed before tossing both him and Nichkhun a water bottle, which they both easily caught. As soon as he had walked into the kitchen himself, and hearing the commotion from both Wooyoung and Chansung, Junho rolled his eyes and grabbed two oranges from the bowl of fruit that was sitting on the island. He soon tossed one each at the two of them, successfully quieting them.

“Will you two knock it off, goddamn.”

“Will people stop throwing shit?!” Wooyoung threw the orange back at Junho who easily caught it.

********

A few days after that, the boys threw another party, but it was more just for them and a few select friends, meaning Ash and Loren who insisted on dragging Bec along for the hell of it. Well, to get Bec to go took a lot of bribing on Ash and Loren’s part.

“I bet you couldn’t even make it a solid night around Wooyoung… like alone in a room, without hurting him again.” Junho said as he looked over at Bec with a brow raised, seeing if she would take up his bet. “The same goes for you, Woo. Bet you can’t be around her all night without saying something to piss her off and make her storm off.”

“Bet.” Wooyoung downed his drink before standing up and looking over at Bec with a smirk, that would make any girl go weak, but it only made Bec roll her eyes. He soon walked off towards his room upstairs.

“What do I get if I last all night? I’ll take you up on that bet, but I want to know the prize.” Bec said as she looked over at Junho.

“$200 sound fair?”

“Fair to me.” Bec smiled and stood up, placing her drink down on the coffee table in front of her since they were all congregated in the living room playing card games together.

“Bec, you don’t need to do this.” Ash said as she looked at her worriedly for happily taking up the bet that Junho put out.

“No, no, I can do it. I’ll be fine.”

“Even though you want to kill him?” Loren raised a brow up at Bec before chuckling softly as she just waved her hand at her to dismiss what she had just said.

“I’ll be fine. He… maybe fine after this.” Bec said as she walked off and towards Wooyoung’s room.

“I feel like we should warn Woo instead.” Chansung chuckled.

“Nah, he deserves whatever is coming to him.” Junho snickered before taking a sip of his drink.

“Is that why you set up the bet?” Minjun shook his head before looking over at Loren with a smile as she patted his thigh. Junho just smiled at him instead of responding back.

“You’re evil.” Ash chuckled a bit.

********

“I’m surprised you took up the bet from Junho.” Wooyoung said as he went to sit down on the chair he had in front of his desk.

“Because I know I can handle being around you without killing you, no matter how much you annoy me and how much I still want to hurt you for what you said.” Bec spoke as she crossed her arms over her chest.

“Okay I am sorry for saying that in public.”

“Only for saying that in public? Not for saying that in general?” Bec scoffed.

“Why would I be sorry for saying that in general? I can tell that you want me.”

“Excuse me? You couldn’t be any more wrong there. Why would I want some stupid frat boy?”

“Stupid frat boy?” Wooyoung stood up from the chair and walked over to Bec.

“Yes, stupid frat boy.” Bec repeated herself, not intimidated by Wooyoung who was standing close to her, his height making him slightly tower over her.

“I am morethan a stupid frat boy, but you refuse to see it.”

“To see what exactly? How so called ‘charming’ you are?” Bec raised a brow up as she continued to look up at him. If anyone else was in the room with them, they could have easily cut the tension between them with a knife. When she had seen him open and close his mouth before glaring at her slightly, she thought she had stumped him but the thing he did next surprised her most. His hands cupped her cheeks, and he crashed his lips against her. What she had done next surprised her most, but she ended up reciprocating the deep, heated kiss.

“Are you sure you don’t want me?” Wooyoung snickered against the kiss.

“Don’t push it.” Bec murmured back before Wooyoung slowly walked forwards to essentially push her up against the wall. His lips soon moved to leave a trail of kisses down her jawline towards her neck before reaching down to pull her shirt off her, quickly tossing it back behind him. His lips soon attached themselves to her neck. A few soft moans left her mouth as he began to nip and suck on her neck. She knew that she would have a few marks there, but she didn’t mind. After some time, Wooyoung moved away from her neck as well as her, which only made Bec let out a soft whine at the loss of contact from him.

“Let’s move this over to the bed, where I can properly worship you like you are one of the famous queens you more than likely read about in your books.” He smirked before he quickly took off his shirt before tossing it behind him, not caring where it landed. Before Bec could say anything back, because she also was a bit mesmerized at the sight of his toned body, he lifted her up into his arms and walked over to his bed, placing her down on it. He got on top of her, smirking as he looked down at her, grinding his hips against hers to see her reaction. At that action, she had let out a soft moan, which only satisfied him that he was able to get her to moan again. “You sure you want this?”

Bec only nodded as her gaze met his. “Nuh uh, baby, use your words.”

“Yes, I want this.” Bec stuttered out, feeling a little turned on by his slight dominance over her already.

“Let’s have some fun then.” He smirked before crashing his lips against hers once again, beginning what would be a very long night for them both.

--------------------------

A/N: I hope you enjoyed this Bec (and anyone else who have read this as well)! I will hopefully be turning FratBoy!2PM into a series with other OCs! So stay tuned for those!

#2pm scenarios #2pm fics #jang wooyoung #wooyoung x oc

17 notes · View notes