#Fluent Freshman Friday

[jtl-fics]

Fluent Freshman - Part 34

PREV

Sometimes when you have bad anxiety it’s hard to judge how scary something actually is.

FF breaks into a cold sweat practicing his order in line at fast food places. FF shakes with nerves at the prospect of asking about where a certain building was on campus from a stranger. FF’s stomach twisted into knots when he thought Andrew was leading him to his death in the basement of Eden’s. It’s hard when everything in life feels like the scariest and most impossible thing you’ll ever have to deal with.

Still, FF had felt like he had been getting braver. Had felt like he might be getting just a bit better in regard to confronting his fears.

He’d been getting better.

He managed to laugh with the cashier when he ordered combo number two-teen instead of twelve before break. He had asked for directions to the nearest bathroom from a stranger when one of Kevin’s shakes had gone straight through him. He had even gone down into the basement with Andrew and realized he had friends.

Looking at Daniel makes that progress feel far away.

His stepbrother’s name tastes like ash in his mouth.

“I just want to talk.” Daniel says raising his hands up placatingly. “We’re family.” Daniel says pointing between himself and FF.

“We’re not family and I don’t want to talk.” FF says because they aren’t, and he doesn’t. Daniel is one of the top two people in the entire world he doesn’t want to talk to ever.

“There’s your answer, now leave.” Captain Neil dismisses Daniel who still has his hands up.

“C’mon talk to me. We’re brothers John.” Daniel says and FF feels his entire body tense at the name.

“John?” Nicky looks back at him in confusion.

“That’s not my name.” FF hears himself say more than he consciously says it. “It was never my name.” he swallows tart cherry flavored bile. It really was one of Kevin’s better smoothies and FF would feel terrible if he puked it up. The world sways as he tries to breathe through the nausea of hearing Daniel call him by that name again.

He changed it the second he turned 18 last March. He’d signed his contract as a Smith not a Stanton. He would never let someone take it from him again even if hearing his first name still made his heart ache.

He feels Kevin’s hand on the center of his back steadying him and maybe he is swaying and not the world. Kevin takes the smoothie out of his hands before he can drop it.

Nicky must see something too because his friend abandoned the front line to steady him with an arm around his shoulders. He thinks he sees Captain Neil take his place.

“Of course, it was! It’s the name our dad gave you.” Daniel says and FF’s stomach cramps at the thought. “He’s still hurt that you changed it and that you haven’t reached out. Do you know what it’s like to find out your brother was hurt during a press conference?” Daniel asks and FF can see how he’s going for the sympathy card here looking at the others.

It’s his usual tactic.

“Fred is not my dad. You, Lucas, and Greg are not my brothers.” FF can feel a headache coming on along with the stomach cramps. He wishes that Aaron had let him restock on Pepto because the tart cherries maybe aren’t the best thing at the moment.

Daniel has always been the worst part of his stepfamily.

Greg had been a physical bully. Lucas had always followed Greg’s lead. Fred hadn’t looked at him more than he had to from the very moment that FF had made it clear that he did not appreciate the 13th birthday gift of ‘a new name’ and still intended to spend time with his grandmother. His mother had been distant for ages, but he always felt her watchful gaze making sure he did not step out of line, did not give her an excuse to put him back on the medication that left him as a zombie.

Daniel was different.

Daniel wanted things to be a certain way, but he wasn’t like his father or his brothers. He didn’t force FF to change, didn’t bully him into accepting a name that he had never wanted, and never let on to the fact that he was watching.

They’re the same age. Daniel had come to him like he could be a friend something he had been in short supply of after his two years of being little more than a medicated zombie. Daniel had gotten close; Daniel had pretended to actually care and acted like he only wanted what was best for FF.

It might have even worked.

If FF wasn’t such a loyal grandson.

Daniel had tried to poison the well between him and Gran, had tried to tell him that he needed to leave her behind and be happy in his new family.

FF had been stalwart.

Then Daniel had gone after his Gran and FF dislocated his thumb punching him.

“You don’t touch her.” He had said seeing Daniel for what he was for the first time. He saw a monster where a friend used to be but he had told this monster all of his secrets, all of his weaknesses, and had given him ammo.

Daniel came off as sweet and caring. He was athletic. He was a good friend. He was smart.

He was just also evil and made sure that FF suffered every single day they lived together because FF saw that evil in him when no one else had.

More than anything FF had been happy to bid him farewell when he’d signed his legal name on the contract to Palmetto State University’s Exy Team.

Just the sight of him brought up bad memories.

“No brother here to talk to it seems.” Captain Neil says.

“Bye Daniel. Kevin and Aaron, you two can walk back.” Andrew says and FF feels hands on his shoulders and found himself being steered towards the Maserati and FF stiffened instantly at the sight of it. “Smith?” Andrew questions.

FF had been doing better.

Screaming and pointing.

A hand reaching.

A sharp swerve.

Blood in his eyes and smoke in his lungs.

“I’m scared.”

Tiny hands in his.

“It’s going to be okay; I promise.”

Waking up to his grandma holding his hand in the hospital.

He’d been getting better.

“See, you’re still upset over what that guy did. Why are you clinging to the last name of the guy that did this to you?” Daniel asks from behind him, “He almost killed mom and you. He did kill our two-“

“Stop.” FF hears himself say and he turns to Daniel. “Jay and Robin weren’t your little siblings, they were mine. I’m not your family, I never was and never will be. I’m not scared of cars anymore.” A lie mixed in with multiple truths.

Maybe it’ll make Daniel happy to see that FF still knows how to play all of his favorite games.

He turns to Andrew who is staring at him patiently, “I’m not feeling well.” He says.

Andrew looks at him and FF figures he probably looks as shitty as he feels, “Someone will have to sit on someone’s lap.” He says.

“Smithy, sit on my lap.” Nicky says and FF can’t help the way he leans into Nicky’s warmth as his friend guides him to around the car keeping himself between Daniel and FF. Nicky gets in first and FF doesn’t hesitate to crawl onto Nicky’s lap.

He thinks he hears Daniel start to say something, but Andrew slams the door shut on his way to the driver’s side. Andrew doesn’t move from the passenger door, blocking it with his body.

Nicky guides his face into his neck, “Can we buckle-up?” he asks, and Nicky almost dislodges him he’s so quick in his compliance.

“Of course.” Nicky says and there’s the feeling of the seatbelt and the click of it locking into place. Nicky’s hand was in his hair.

FF doesn’t know if it just took a while or if he was just drifting in his thoughts as Nicky stroked his hair. “Are you scared of cars?” he asks voice quiet.

“Yes.” FF answers because it’s Nicky. “I was in an accident.” He explains just as quietly as Nicky had asked.

“Siblings?” Nicky asks voice choking with emotion.

FF pressed his face into Nicky’s neck further and hopes the pressure will stop his eyes from watering. “Yes.” He says. “Younger.” He manages.

Nicky holds him tighter, and FF is glad Nicky doesn’t tell him it’ll be okay.

FF doesn’t know if he drifts or if the others are listening to Daniel’s poison and falling for it. He’s glad that at least he’ll still have Nicky.

Eventually, the doors open, and he thinks he hears Daniel’s voice, but all three doors shut quickly.

“What an asshole.” Aaron spits.

“That doesn’t necessarily disqualify him.” Kevin says.

“We’re not talking about this right now.” Captain Neil hisses, “Smith, we’re going to get you to Abby’s, okay?” he says but FF doesn’t really have the energy to do anything more than a thumbs up.

The car ride is smoother than usual. It’s also quiet other than Kevin reminding him that he’d sleep better if they’d stop by the store to grab more smoothie supplies, Aaron smacking him upside the head, and Andrew threatening to kill both of them if they got tart cherry and avocado smoothie on his interior.

By the time they’re at Abby’s FF is almost asleep in Nicky’s lap but he forces himself to wake up and climb out of the car when Andrew opens the passenger door for them. He finds it hard to look at any of them at the moment.

“Sorry about all of that.” He manages looking down at his feet. “You shouldn’t have had to see that.”

“Smith,” Captain Neil’s hand rests on his shoulder and FF startles slightly as he looks down into the blue eyes of his Captain, “if we got what we deserved, we wouldn’t be Foxes.” He says as FF takes a long and steadying breath. “You have a past and that’s what brought you here.” Captain Neil squeezes his shoulder.

“You’re one of us and we take care of our own.” Andrew says before pushing him towards Nicky, “Get him to bed.” He says.

Nicky didn’t need to be told twice. Abby and Grandma Smith were out checking out a restaurant after the game, the two having become good friends during their stay. FF was glad his Gran was somewhere else and didn’t have to see him like this. FF was even more glad for his friend’s help as Nicky dragged him through his bedtime routine. “Don’t expect this when we’re roomies.” Nicky teased as he helped FF change.

It was hardly five minutes between pulling up and Nicky tucking FF into bed. “We’ll be by tomorrow, call me if that asshole shows up, okay?” Nicky says pointing at him.

FF, still to tired, just gave a thumbs up and closed his eyes.

He just hoped he drank enough of the smoothie that he wouldn’t dream.

***

Nicky left Abby’s house and made sure to lock the door behind him after he had checked a grand total of three times that FF was asleep in the guest bedroom, he’d taken up residency in.

Siblings.

Nicky’s heart ached.

He found the rest of the Monsters loitering outside by the Maserati with Aaron pacing, Kevin wiping his tongue on his shirt, as Andrew and Neil sat on the hood sharing a cigarette.

“He’s asleep?” Andrew asks.

“Out like a light.” He looks over to Kevin, “What’s going on with Kevin?” he asks.

“He tried some of what was left of the Smoothie he gave to Smith.” Neil says with an amused laugh. “He didn’t like it.” He says.

“I’ve been aiming for nutritional, not delicious.” Kevin argues, “Smiths hasn’t complained.”

“Smith is a little too nice for his own good.” Aaron rolls his eyes, “Which is why we’re not letting that asshole get his way!” Aaron adds.

“Being an asshole doesn’t stop you from being good at Exy.” Kevin crosses his arms.

“Obviously!” Aaron returns gesturing at Neil, Andrew, and Kevin.

“I resent that.” Kevin and Neil said at the same time as Andrew just shrugged.

“Hey, what the hell are you guys talking about?” Nicky asks hating feeling locked out of the loop. He didn’t regret climbing in the car to hold FF but there’d been too much time between when he’d sat in the Maserati to when the rest had joined for there to have not been a conversation.

“You didn’t hear?” Aaron asks incredulous.

“I was busy.” Nicky hisses and at least Aaron has the good grace to blush.

“Daniel Stanton wants to try out for the open spot on our roster since Lisa decided to stay home.” Neil says through gritted teeth, “The University already approved that he can try out.” He adds.

“That asshole wants to be a Fox.” Andrew says.

There were many noise disturbance calls from the usually quiet neighborhood that night as Nicky Hemmick let his opinion on this be known to the world.

MASTERPOST FOR ALL PARTS OF FLUENT FRESHMAN AU

NEXT

#Fluent Freshman AU #Fluent Freshman Friday #FF - Pt. 34 #AFTG #AFTG AU #Andreil #Nicky Hemmick #I got you guys in with all the fun jokes #and now we're here #in the awful reality that FF is a Fox #Now you may be wondering #Where in the world did the rest of the smoothie go #The answer is that Kevin dumped it onto Daniel #on purpose #but then regretted it #because how is Smith going to get all his appropriate vitamins and nutrients #without Kevin's handcrafted smoothies #You may also be wondering #Why Kevin is just now discovering that his smoothies taste like ass #and the answer is that he was fully confident in their flavor without tasting them #Smith was just drinking them down! #What a champ

[equallyshaw]

star crossed lovers au! ↳ connor bedard x kailey hughes au! ↳ all about kailey (: ↳ au masterlist! - i do have another post on kailey, but wanted to do more basic facts/clear things up because im a dummy and confused some things in previous posts! - just a fun facts sheet!

kailey clara hughes

born July 7th, 2004.

only child born in los angeles, before they moved to toronto (my own plotline)

blonde haired and green eyes, with brunette hair at a later time

depaul student

majoring econ/finance, spanish minor

roommates and childhood best friends with becca murphy (who dates reichel at a later date)

has had like 2 previous boyfriends that lasted about 6 weeks to 4 months, before her brothers came in and crushed it

candle collector

coffee connoisseur

museum lover

ellen is forever her BFF and vice versa

has dealt with major depression because of the shit jack used to do ):

ends up seeing a therapist and getting on some antidepressants. (which is where jack and quinn have a lovely heart to heart) (both blurbs coming at some point!)

fluent in french and spanish

lacrosse and soccer player. played soccer up until her junior year of college

lover of anything california

rushed for Greek life her freshman year, ran 'home' to alpha chi omega, dropped sophomore year

has done a semester at sea and a study abroad semester

cat lover (has a black cat named crosby lol) (blurb also coming soon)

dislikes hockey with a passion, though connor brings her back slowly but surely

adores Friday night lights and the office (makes connor watch both within the first month of their friendship)

huge book lover, even gives connor the "everybody has a genre you need to find it" lecture

lover of high fantasy (which connor shamelessly reads so she has somebody to talk to about with)

favorite book is 'romeo and juliet' (hehe, this is called star crossed lovers for a reason lmao)

hope you guys liked!

#connor bedard x k hughes au #star crossed lovers au #jack hughes #luke hughes #quinn hughes #connor bedard #Connor Bedard x oc

[5sosfanfictioncatalogue]

50k+ (2) Masterlist

part one

Feels like Coming Home (ao3) - ismaki calum/ashton, michael/luke T, 56k

Summary: All Calum wants is to finish school and get away from his small town. He works hard to seem happy, to be respected and popular at school, to be diffrent, something more. To be someone. All Ashton wants is to get noticed by the boy with the easy smile but guarded eyes. All Michael wants is to escape, to take another hit, another drink, use another body. To feel something. And Luke? Luke just wants everyone to be happy.

Like the Ocean Finds the Shore (ao3) - Clifordiste (cliffordiste) michael/luke G, 71k

Summary: Luke is content living his normal life, sharing his little world with his best friend Calum. Nothing even remotely curious or interesting ever happens to him. Then he discovers an under-the-surface secret about a kid from his class named Michael and a whole hidden world is revealed to him. He is catapulted into a friendship and has to put up with Michael and his stupid blue hair, slowly discovering that not everything is as it seems.

Love is not a Victory March (ao3) - tigerlily_sunshine luke/calum, michael/ashton M, 55k

Summary: In which Calum falls in love with Luke, and things should be simple, but they aren't.

No Chance (ao3) - iCheeseYou (EHook) michael/luke, calum/ashton T, 72k

Summary: So Ashton's going on a road trip with his friend, Calum, and he invited me to tag along. Being the adventurous shit I am, I said yes, but I wouldn't have if I knew that Luke Hemmings was going as well. God, I hate that guy, and the feeling's mutual. Why does that annoying brat have to come along? And Ashton and Calum expect us to be friends? Yeah, right. There's no chance that Luke Hemmings and I, Michael Clifford, are ever going to get along.

Perplexity (ao3) - mattymerlotte (orphan_account) michael/luke M, 53k

Summary: I, Michael Clifford, only have twenty days or so left of my freshman year in college. My experience so far is the definition of mediocre. Until one Friday night when Calum decided to go out partying that I chose to do laundry and while patiently waiting for my clothes in walked a tall blonde boy with shimmering blue eyes. Immediately caught off guard I somehow speak fluent English and talk to him. Mumbling and muttering every word I'm stumbling with each sentence I let out. He tells me his name is Luke.

Tell Me I'm Pretty (ao3) - felixandtae luke/ashton, michael/calum E, 84k

Summary: "Wearing skirts and putting make up on doesn't make me a girl. I have a dick and I can very well show you it. Just tell me I'm pretty, Luke."

Ashton likes to wear make up and Luke likes when Ashton wears make up. But, Luke doesn't like Ashton and Ashton doesn't like Luke. So how did they end up fucking in the auditorium every Friday night?

The Waves Are Ours (ao3) - JetBlackSunshine michael/luke T, 62k

Summary: Alone, friendless and washed up on shore, Michael is a merman in a whole world of trouble. He soon discovers living on land can be tough especially when he falls for a cute land boy who's petrified of the ocean.

What Ifs (ao3) - itcrystal luke/calum, michael/luke, calum/ashton E, 51k

Summary: Luke is a good boy making very bad decisions.

Where the Heart Is (ao3) - LyricalPary (hoseoky) luke/ashton, michael/calum E, 86k

Summary: By the time that Ashton Irwin is twenty-seven years old, he's already a widower and a father of three. After his third nanny quits on him, he comes to the conclusion that life in general doesn't seem to like him very much—that is, until his luck turns around when he discovers a particular nanny by the name of Luke H.

The question now is, can a twenty-two year old man with mile-long legs and a smile made of gold really be the super nanny that Ashton needs?

Perhaps so.

Your Eyes Are Cooler Than My Beating Heart (ao3) - CliffordAffliction michael/luke E, 64k

Summary: Michael is a demon who somehow makes Luke want to die and live all at the same time.

#5sosfanfictioncatalogue #5sos fanfic #5sos #5 seconds of summer #50k #50k masterlist #masterlists

[barnardblr]

friday october 2, 2020

bahaha i hardly use this blog to upload original content,, i mostly come on here to chat with prospective barnard applicants these days but i thought it'd be fun to do the #studyblr community challenge!

day 1 - introduce yourself and tell us what you study

my name's rachel and i'm a sophomore at barnard. i'm a prospective sociology major with a double minor in environmental science (which was the major i applied with) and east asian studies (bc i rlly enjoyed taking mandarin freshman year so i thought why not turn it into a minor?). i don't know what i wanna do post grad but prob the 4+1 grad program at columbia. my favorite club is the lion dance team (follow us on instagram @ cu_liondance !) and my goal one day is to become fluent in mandarin and move to china.

day 2 - explain your studyblr url

my url is inspired by the love interest, nahoko, in my favorite studio ghibli movie the wind rises!

#the 4+1 thing is only if i can get in hahaha o.O #studyblr #bujo #studyblr community challenge #myhoneststudyblr #heyharri #philologystudies #studiousliz #stillstudies #evalearns #pltuo #adelinestudies #serendistudy #heypat #heystudiygn #heyitstudyblr #problematicprocrastinator #studyplants #gloomstudy #mine

[queenmylovely]

Peer Review

Summary: John deacon x fem!reader. Two seniors in a freshman English class. 

Word Count: 4.4k

Warnings: fluff, cussing (ofc), and smut (18+!! marked by ***)

A/N: Cute little oneshot cause idk how to write blurbs. Basically what I wish uni was actually like lol. For you, anon! I hope you all enjoy, and any feedback including likes, replies, and reblogs are greatly appreciated! Requests are open!

Request: hi love your writing!! i was wondering if i could request a uni!john deacon au? maybe something fluffy/smutty?

Masterlist 

(a sassy Deaky fed up with the freshmen’s bs)

☆☆☆

Waiting to take English 101 until your senior year hadn’t necessarily been a conscious decision. More like you forgot that you were required to take it due to your eagerness to take the classes that were actually for your major. So on the first Tuesday of your last fall semester, just eight months until graduation, you were sat in a room full of mostly freshmen and sophomores.

The first thing your professor had everyone do was to get into five groups of five and introduce yourselves with your name, year, major, and hometown. Quickly, everyone grouped up and circled their desks, awkwardly waiting for someone to start.

Since you had been doing this for the past three years, you took the lead, “I’m Y/N. I’m a Spanish major and a senior because I forgot to take this course earlier. And I’m from here, London.”

Your answer gained a couple of chuckles and helped to break the ice as the girl next to you started without hesitation. After her, two more people introduced themselves and then the last guy went.

He had long hair and kind eyes, and his voice was a little nasally but altogether pleasing when he started to talk, “My name’s John Deacon. I’m also a senior ‘cause I couldn’t be bothered to take this class before my engineering ones. And, um, I’m from Leicestershire.”

When he said that he was a senior he had turned to you with a smile that you returned easily.

“Oh thank goodness I’m not the only one,” you half-whispered to him, leaning over conspiratorially. He giggled at your words before the professor called everyone’s attention back to the front.

For the rest of the hour, the class remained in the small groups, reading over sections of the syllabus and then presenting them to the rest of the class. As experienced students, you and John were able to pick out the most important information from the text with just a glance.

John and you made funny comments to each other every so often throughout the class, saying how young all of the freshmen looked and how they were confused at what office hours were. At first, it was mainly you making the comments, which you were happy enough with since he had a wonderful laugh. But after a little while, he made a few comments himself that were far more severe than yours, making it very hard for you to stifle your laughter.

By the end of class, the two of you had developed an ease of conversation and you were slightly reluctant that it was coming to a close. As you packed up your things, you saw John lingering by your desk and turned to him to say goodbye.

He beat you to it, though, and asked, “Where’s your next class?”

“It’s in the psychology building. Where’s yours?” you replied.

“The engineering building,” he answered.  

“Oh, mine’s on the way to yours,” you pointed out.

“It is,” he agreed.

“We could walk together,” you suggested.

“I mean, if you insist,” he said with a cheeky smile and you laughed, lightly hitting him on the shoulder.

The two of you walked over together, chatting about your majors. You found out that John was an electrical engineer major, finishing up in the spring like you. He asked what Spanish majors did and you explained that you wanted to be an interpreter or professor.

“At the moment, it’s looking like I’ll do private tutoring and lessons once I graduate until I find something I really like,” you told him.

“So, are you fluent?” he questioned.

“I better be,” you joked and the two of you laughed. “What about you, John? Do you speak any languages?”

“I took French in primary but promptly forgot it all. Oh, and you can call me Deaky, by the way,” he informed you.

“Deaky?” you questioned a little bit teasingly.

“Yes, it’s short for Deacon. It’s what my friends call me,” he explained.

“Oh, so we’re friends now?” you said with a smile.

“Well, yes, I’d quite like to be,” he said a little shyly, looking away.

“Me too, Deaky,” you assured, and he looked back at you with a grin. You then realized you were at your building and told him so. “Hasta jueves, Deaky.”

“What does that mean?” he laughed as you started walking away.

“See you Thursday,” you called over your shoulder before pushing the door open and going inside.

_____

From then on, you and Deaky paired up together in class and then walked to your next ones. Occasionally, you met up at a coffee shop to study and peer review each other’s work. John wasn’t the best writer, but he tried very hard and improved a lot from paper to paper. You, on the other hand, were so used to writing in Spanish that it took some work to get to a place where John didn’t have to correct your grammar every couple sentences.

About halfway through the semester, the two of you had plans to go over your midterm papers in the coffee shop. It was the Friday before it was due and the plan was to meet at 7:00 and hopefully be done before closing. While you definitely had made progress, you were barely halfway done when you realized that the cafe was closing in 10 minutes. And because you were so engrossed in each other’s papers, the barista was the one that had pointed it out to you. They told you that you could take your time packing up, but the two of you cleaned up quickly since you were the last two in the place, and didn’t want to keep them longer than necessary.

As you stepped out to the street you turned to John, “What are we gonna do? We still have so much to go through and edit.”

“I would suggest we could go back to my place, but my roommates are pretty loud and intrusive,” he told you. He had mentioned his roommates a lot, but so far you had never met them and wondered what they were actually like. Apparently, though, that would be for a different time.

“Oh, then we can go to my place, that’s a good idea. I can’t believe I didn’t think of that,” you chuckled at yourself.

“Are you sure? I don’t want to intrude,” John hesitated.

“Yes I’m sure, you won’t be intruding at all. I want you there, Deaky,” you reassured him with a smile that he returned after a second. “Okay, so I live about 10 minutes from here, if you just want to follow me? There’s plenty of parking on the street, I swear no one there drives.”

“Sounds great,” he told you.

“Perfect. See you in 10 then,” you said before opening your door and climbing in. You waited until you saw him get in his car and turn it on before you started to pull out of the parking space and leave the parking lot. True to what you said, it took exactly 10 minutes before you pulled over and parked, John parking right behind you.

You got out and waited for John, leading him up to your apartment with idle chit chat about the neighborhood. Opening the door, you let him in first, and he followed your lead when you took off your shoes once you were inside.

“We can set up here,” you said, gesturing to your living room which had a couch with a large coffee table in front of it. You set down your bag on your couch, but didn’t sit down. “Let’s get some snacks or something first, though. We got those drinks at the coffee shop like 3 hours ago.”

John followed you into the kitchen, trying not to get in your way. He stood awkwardly just inside the entrance and you laughed. Grabbing his hand, you pulled him the rest of the way in and nudged him until he was leaning against the counter, “You’re allowed to be here, you know. I live alone, and you’re certainly not bothering me.”

He nodded but looked away a little bit, trying to hide the slight blush that had covered his cheeks when you grabbed his hand.

“I’m going to make a cuppa, do you want one?” you asked him.

“Yes please, thank you,” he replied.

“So polite,” you said with a smile and started making the drinks. Next, you pulled a jar of unpopped popcorn. “Do you know how to make popcorn? I always burn it.”

“Um, yeah I do. Do you have a pot?” John replied, stepping up to the stove and grabbing the jar from your hands. You went over to a cupboard and opened it, reaching up to get the pot. It proved just out of your reach though, and you strained. John was watching you, and when you stretched your arm as high as it would go, your shirt rode up and he caught a glimpse of your waist underneath your sweater. He stared only for a second before recovering and reaching up to grab the pot for you.

“Thank you,” you said, turning to face him. In doing so, you realized how close he was. His breath was fanning out over you, and you had to tilt your head up to look into his eyes. You hadn’t always thought of John as tall, but when he was standing so close to you that you were practically touching, he really was quite a bit taller than you. You didn’t know if it was your imagination or not, but he seemed to be getting closer and closer to you. Was that the tips of his or your hair tickling your shoulder through your sweater? Was it just you or was his knee touching your thigh? Whose breathing had gotten heavier, yours, his, both? Before you could answer any of these questions, the kettle whistled loudly, causing the two of you to jump apart.

“The water’s done,” you said plainly, and then cursed yourself silently for pointing out the obvious.

“I’ll get started on the popcorn,” John said, as he turned to the stove and away from you. Because he did, you missed the bright pink on his cheeks.

You unplugged the kettle and grabbed two mugs and tea bags from a different cupboard, pouring the water and let them steep. Walking over to the fridge, you opened it and grabbed the milk. “Milk and sugar?”

“Just one sugar, please,” John replied, still a little awkwardly.

You nodded to yourself and went about making the tea, adding sugar to both and only milk to yours. Once they were ready, you handed John his cup and you both sipped on the tea instead of talking while you waited for the popcorn to be ready. When the first kernel popped and hit the lid of the pot, the two of you jumped and then laughed together.

Once the tension had broken, you started talking more normally again, “So, how many roommates do you have again?”

“Three; Freddie, Roger, and Brian. They’re good blokes, things can just get pretty rowdy. Especially when Fred and Rog are in one of their moods,” Deaky replied with somewhat of a wry smile.

“Are they students too?” you asked.

“They’ve all graduated now, I’m the last one,” John explained as he took the finished pot of popcorn off the burner.

“Aw, you’re the baby,” you said teasingly and you poked him in the side.

He made a sound of indignation and turned to you as he poured the popcorn into the bowl you had set out, “Care to explain to me why I should continue making the popcorn while you tease and attack me?”

“‘Cause I’m cute,” you said with a wink before grabbing half a stick of butter to melt on the stove to pour over the popcorn. John didn’t have a response to that, instead he blushed and watched you starting to melt the butter.

“Why don’t you take our tea into the living room and take out our papers and stuff, I’ll be right in with this,” you said as you stirred the butter, nudging his side with your elbow.

He nodded and hastened to do what you said, carefully carrying the mugs into the living room and digging out his things. In a minute, you joined him in the living room, bringing the freshly buttered popcorn with you and a couple napkins.

The two of you dug into the revision and popcorn with the same fervor. With another hour of hard work, you finished all you could for the moment and it was a good stopping place for the night.

You both leaned back on the couch, brains tired from the constant critical thinking you had been doing.

“Essay writing is tough business,” you said with a sigh.

“Agreed. I’d take vector calculus over this any day,” John concurred.

“Can’t relate,” you said turning to him to laugh. As you did, you saw the shine of butter next to his mouth. Without thinking, you licked your thumb and brought it up to his face to wipe it off, saying, “You’ve some…”

That’s as far as you got before you realized that John was staring at you with wide-blown pupils and his mouth parted. Your paused with your thumb still resting on his cheek. John reached up to grab your wrist, but instead of removing your hand from his face, he kept it there. Slowly, you moved your thumb from his cheek to his lower lip. You brushed over it softly and felt his hand tense slightly around your wrist. Bringing your other hand to the other side of his face, you caressed his cheek before gently pulling his face to yours.

You had been watching your hands’ movements on his face and John had been watching your lips, but just before your lips met, the two of you flicked your gazes up to each other's eyes. Upon seeing the same look of desire he had reflected in your eyes, John took the chance and closed the distance between the two of you.

The kiss was soft and chaste. Pulling back slightly, you slid your hand so it was in his and brought his hand to your jaw. Once it was there, you moved both of yours to the back of his neck and pulled him into another kiss. This one was longer, and more testing. After a moment, you lightly sucked on John’s lower lip, and he groaned deep in his throat, causing you to both giggle against his lips and squeeze your thighs together in anticipation. In retaliation, John gave your lower lip a bite and you moaned, making John smirk against your mouth.

Soon, the kiss became more heated, and when John slid his hands from your jaw into your hair and gave a light tug, you parted your mouth in a gasp. He slipped his tongue in your mouth, teasing your own, making you deepen the kiss even further. In order to get better access and be closer to him, and maybe to get some friction that you so desperately needed, you pushed John so he was sat against the back of the couch and slung a leg over his hips so you were straddling him.

***

One of his hands moved from your hair to your waist, and he simultaneously pulled you closer to him as he lifted his hips up to you. You gasped into his mouth, and the two of you rocked your hips together as you continued to kiss heatedly.

John started toying with the hem of your sweater, running his hand along the strip of your waist that had been exposed to him earlier in the evening. Catching his drift, you grabbed the edge and pulled it over your head. Not wanting to be left out, you pulled on his shirt and he took it off too. As you continued to make out and grind against each other, you ran your hands over each other’s exposed bodies.

Making his way from your mouth to your jaw to your neck, John kissed and sucked light marks into your skin. With his hold on your waist, he pulled you so you were kneeling at full height and started kissing down your chest, mouthing at your nipples over your bra. You moaned and whined at his actions.

But, when his lips came dangerously close to the waistband of your trousers, you pushed yourself away a bit, and in between heavy breaths said, “Um, we should, um bedroom.”

John nodded eagerly and let you stand up so you could lead the way. You grabbed his hand and pulled him to his feet, then practically ran to your bedroom with him in tow. Once you pushed open the door and John was inside, he stopped and pulled you to him again, bringing you into a deep kiss. Slowly, he walked the two of you to the edge of your bed, but before you could move onto it, he lifted you by your waist and threw you so you landed gently in the middle of your bed. You giggled on impact and he chuckled with you.

Returning to the mission of before, John climbed on top of you, kissing your neck hotly as he worked the button and zipper of your pants. Before he pulled them down, he looked up for confirmation and when you nodded, he took them off. Left in only your bra and underwear, you reached for John’s own waistband and he helped you take off his pants, kicking them to the floor.

John leaned up and started kissing you again, holding your face in his hands. Your hands moved from his chest to his shoulders, pulling him closer to you. He took the opportunity to grind his hips against yours and you automatically wrapped your legs around him to keep him close. You were spurring each other on to continually roll and thrust your hips as the other gasped and moaned.

Suddenly, John pulled away, but instead of getting up, he reached underneath you, trying to unhook your bra. It proved difficult for him, so, laughing slightly, you said, “Let me.”

Your hands took his place and effortlessly undid your bra, pulling the straps off your shoulders as you removed it. John groaned at the sight of your breasts and you felt your cheeks and chest heat up at the sound. He must have found it endearing because he smiled to himself and started a surprisingly relentless attack on your breasts.

He took a good couple of minutes just to suck hickeys into the tender skin at the top of your breasts, sucking on your nipples lightly every so often just to keep you on your toes. His ministrations made you breathless and desperate for more, and soon you were writhing underneath him, trying to get any sort of friction on your core.

If John knew what you wanted, he didn’t let on, and with a huff of exasperation, you spoke up, “John, can you please move lower?”

He smiled against your chest and replied, “Why would I do that when I’m having such a good time up here?”

“Please Johnny, I need more,” you whined, the nickname just slipping from your mouth.

John groaned at your words and stopped his movements, “Say it again.”

You quickly caught onto what he meant and repeated, “Johnny, please, please, I need you.”

With what almost seemed like a growl, John moved down your body, pulling your underwear off with him. He spread your legs quickly, and you gasped as the cold air hit your wetness. Without hesitation, John licked a stripe up your folds, groaning at your taste. You sighed and threaded your fingers through his hair to keep him close.

John, on the other hand, wanted you anything but relaxed, and started an assault on your pussy. He started by collecting wetness from your entrance on his tongue before moving up to toy with your clit. He kissed, licked, and swirled his tongue on the bundles of nerves until you were squirming beneath him and the hold on his hair had tightened.

When he looked up and saw that your eyes were squeezed shut and your head was thrown back, he moved one hand to his mouth, coating it in his saliva. Then, he pushed his index finger inside you, making you cry out “Johnny!” yet again. He pumped his finger, still paying attention to your clit until your back was beginning to arch and your thighs were trembling. Knowing you were close, he added another finger and sucked harshly on your clit, fingering you quickly until you tumbled over the edge.

Your orgasm was stronger than you expected, and you felt it from your walls that were clenching around his fingers to the shocks of pleasure that coursed up your spine. Gasping out his name as he continued his motions throughout your orgasm, you unconsciously squeezed your thighs together, keeping John as close as possible. As you came down, your breath evened out and you relaxed your legs, John coming back into view once he could lift his head again.

You would have apologized for nearly crushing him, but the look in his eyes was enough to silence any sorry that would have come from you. His eyes were dark with lust and boring into yours. His mouth was still slick with your wetness, and when he kissed his way up your body, he left little tracks that made you shiver when the air hit them.

When he made it to your mouth and pulled you in for a kiss, he pushed his tongue into your waiting mouth so you could taste yourself. You moaned into the kiss, reaching down to palm John through his underwear. Breaking away from the kiss, you pulled down his boxers and his dick, already totally hard, was revealed to you. As you began pumping it in your hands, John moved his attention to your neck, his kisses being interrupted with moans when you swiped your palm over the head to gather his precum and spread it along his shaft.

You continued jerking him off until he pulled away from your neck, giving your lips another short kiss, whispering, “gotta get a condom,” before he got off the bed and grabbed his jeans. As you waited for him, you remained laying down, but moved one of your hands first to your mouth to wet it, then to your pussy and started rubbing your clit.

John didn’t notice your movements until he was opening the condom and started to roll it down his length. “Fuck, you just couldn’t wait?”

You didn’t stop your movements even as John climbed back on top of you. Instead you giggled and shook your head, “Uh-uh.”

He shot back a smile of his own, shaking his head before he reached down and took your hand from yourself, “Leave that up to me, love.”

Next, he moved your legs so they were bent at the knee and were pushed above your hips. “Is this okay?”

“Yeah, hurry up,” you nodded and looked at him expectantly.

John scoffed at your words and look and took his cock in his hand, pumping it a couple times before lining up at your entrance and slowly sliding in. He moaned as he did, “So fucking eager.”

His words, along with how he felt inside of you made you moan out a weak, “Johnny, please move.”

Obliging, John started moving in shallow thrusts, getting both you and him used to each other. When you started reaching up to him, he leaned forward on a thrust in and went deeper than he had before. You both gasped at the feeling, and you held him to you by his shoulders, telling him, “That, do that again.”

John didn’t take any convincing and started thrusting into you in deep, slow thrusts that made you gasp and moan. You could tell he was holding back some though, and told him, “You can go faster, Johnny. Go faster.”

He did, and sped up his pace until you were crying out with every thrust. You could feel yourself getting close and almost reached your hand between the two of you before you remembered his words earlier, “Johnny, please.”

Knowing exactly what you meant, John moved his hand down so his fingers could rub tight circles on your clit. It only took another minute of this before you were tensing up around him and you could only say “Johnny,” over and over.

“Come for me, beautiful. Let go,” John whispered against your lips before capturing them with his own.

The kiss pushed you over the edge again, and you came with a stuttering cry that John swallowed with his kisses. It was gentler this time, but still lifted you to a high that left your body tingling and satisfied.

John kept thrusting into you, at a slower pace so you wouldn’t be overstimulated. You could tell that he was close though, and urged him on by meeting his hips with your own. Wanting to encourage him like he did you, you kissed along his neck until you reached his ear and whispered into it, “Please Johnny, come for me. Oh- please.”

Your words in his ear set him off and in two more snaps of his hips, John was coming hard, letting his head fall to your shoulder and moaning your name into the crook of your neck. He stilled inside of you, catching his breath. His heavy breathing on your neck caused a shiver to go down your spine, and you laughed lightly.

Hearing your laugh, John placed a sweet kiss to your neck before slowly sitting up and pulling out. He got up and went to the bathroom he had noticed on the way to your bedroom. He came back having disposed of the condom and cleaned the two of you off with a warm washcloth before lying next to you again. He laid on his back and you curled up to his side, laying your head on his chest while his arm rested on your body.

***

You traced little patterns on his chest and he played with the ends of your hair. Planting a couple of kisses to his chest, you chuckled to yourself.

“What’s so funny?” he said, tugging lightly on one strand of your hair.

“Well, I was just thinking that now I’m really glad that I didn’t have to pair up with some freshman for peer review,” you told him before both of you cracked up. 

★★★

Taglist: @somekindof-cheese @gwilyoubemine @deacytits @supersonicfreddie @siriuslovesmarlene @bowiequeen @acdeaky @deakysgirl @sunflower-borhap-boys @deakyfordays @queensilveryrog @happy-at-home @ceruleanrainblues @briarrose26

I just kinda created this taglist so if you would like to be taken off or added, just send me a message or ask!

Reminder that my requests are open! If you would like something in a sort of one shot format/length or blurb, etc. send it in! I’ll write for any of the Borhap or Queen boys (Freddie only platonically), Lucy, Patrick Murray, Gardner Langway and adult!Tim Murphy or possibly any of the other characters these people have played if I know enough about them!

#hope you enjoy cause it was not beta'd #my roommate got a migraine so she couldn't #anyway enjoy cause I did! #queen #john deacon #deaky #oneshot #fluff #smut #queen x reader #john deacon x reader #deaky x reader #deacy #john deacy #john deaky #deacy x reader #disco deaky #disco deacy #deacon #john #fic #queenmylovely #peer review #request

[sevenfactorial]

3,5,22 :)

HA im actually getting around to this finally

3: (truth) What are your three favorite things about your appearance? (dare) List all nine of your tumblr crushes, and describe each blog/blogger in one word.

These are all like, within 2% of each other and tbh I’m not currently reblogging and liking enough for any consistency since they were fairly different just this morning but anyways but whatever

@vacuously-true (uplifting), @bionelly2 (encouraging), @pizzl (energetic), @astronauticall (dynamic), @cromulentenough (curious), @carlscookies (cheerful), @percyboy (chaotic), @ironsilversaltandtea (unexpected*), @fluxion-fluent (cats)

* for context, I’m so used to seeing riffs from media I’m really unfamiliar with so seeing stuff from a rather obscure fandom that I actually do know is super unexpected and fun

(also that was very very dfficult)

5: (truth) If your parents knew everything you’ve ever done, what would they think is the worst thing? (dare) Tag the three nonmutuals you admire most.

I don’t do a ton that my parents strongly disagree with. I guess the underage drinking that I did very little of. Or maybe also the legal drinking which I still don’t do very much of.

Actually during freshman year of undergrad, one of my friends lived off campus so a few of us would walk her home if she stayed until after dark (vast majority of days). They had vague knowledge of this but would be extremely unhappy if they knew I walked most of a mile in the dark (frequently with only one other person) multiple times a week all year. And any other instances of me putting myself in ``danger”

22: (truth) What are three things you’re looking forward to? (dare) Tag the last three people you reblogged posts from, and estimate how many followers they have.

1) Getting to go outside WITH OTHER PEOPLE again. one day

2) Moving somewhere else. I’ve lived in this city for so so long

3) More immediately, I love friday afternoons. It’s been such a good way to end a week for a long time now (with quilting and games or quilting and dinner) and it’s not the same now but I’m happy that we can retain some happiness from it via video call.

from https://sevenfactorial.tumblr.com/post/615048688103047168/truth-or-dare-send-me-a-number-and-i-have-to

#ask game #counter-example

[lucky-bucky-boy]

Fall

Pairing: None at the moment, eventual College!Bucky x Reader Word Count: 1960 Summary: Reader is introduced to the friend group Warnings: The pining has begun A/N: This is the second chapter of Boys Like you. Masterlist Here / Series Masterlist Taglist: @frenchzodiacgirl  @johnnynunzio @all-art-is-useless @necromaniackat @sunflwerstark

-

Early morning alarms, blankets too warm to leave, a tinge of regret at the choice for a 9am class. Rustling of unorganized clothes, quick application of mascara and a hint of gloss, a cup of coffee in one hand and bag thrown over the other shoulder. Scurrying feet of people excited to start their first week of college, sluggish walk of those ready to get the year over with. 

A bubble of anticipation as more chairs scraped against the floor, a need for the caffeinated drink that was almost gone, an observing gaze taking in every person. Mixed group of kids, some obviously freshman, a few looking like they were seniors probably needing another elective to graduate. A few cliqued together groups already forming: a few cheerleaders sitting together in the back, the group of nerds front and center, an oddly pretty blonde football player sitting to the right of the middle with presumably friends starting to sit around him. 

They were intriguing more than anything as they filed in. The blonde sported a Letterman jacket that had “ "Captain” Rogers" on it, a girl with fiery red hair wearing all black, from the boots to her leather jacket plopping into the seat next to him, hand moving to ruffle his hair. Next was a tall man with a sharp stubbled jawline that exuded warmth, oddly followed by your dormmate Wanda, a gorgeous dark skinned girl that had flowing dark brown locks that curled naturally and perfectly and seemed like the type to keep to herself. 

Finally was a boy who was far too handsome for his own good, bright blue eyes that were easily noticeable across the room, long dark brown hair pulled back into a low bun. A pair of grey sweatpants that hugged his thighs perfectly, a plain white t shirt, and his letterman jacket that read “Barnes”. His brooding demeanor quickly diminished when he saw him friends, breaking into a breathtaking grin, sitting behind the blonde. 

Half a mind to go over there, the opportunity was ceased as the professor walked in, introducing himself as Dr.Strange and welcoming everyone to “A Walk Through World’s History”. An eccentric but strict and respectable man, one you easily found yourself respecting and wanting to please and impress. 

Class went on smoothly, syllabus handed out, class introductions where thankfully anxiety didn’t get the best of you. The brunette introduced himself as “James, but everyone calls me Bucky”, and it was already decided that Wanda would be getting questioned about her friend. It was hard not to steal glances of him, but it was the first day of class and falling heads over heels for someone like him was not the best idea. It was difficult however with the teeth pulling redundancy of how first days went. It would be easier next class to not get distracted, there would be something to focus on, hopefully.

Classes melted together in their repetitive nature; “Hi. I’m your professor. Who are you? Alright next. Okay, so now for the syllabus.” A sigh of relief as the last class of Mondays was over and a hint of annoyance when the whole week ended up just as repetitive. It was expected, every first week of school is the worst to get through, easier to watch paint dry than to sit in a chair for hours being told and retold and lectured on policies and procedures of the college and classroom.

Friday held a beautiful forecast, the sun setting a warmth in the air as clouds danced across the sky, a slight breeze that made being outside all the more welcoming. Perfect weather to explore the campus or grab a blanket and watch movies until the dark of night. But that’s not what Wanda had planned.

A night earlier in the week spent rearranging the room, beds on either side of the room with both dresser at the foot of one and both desks at the end of the other. The two of you had set up a television and a few game systems which you assumed was for the two of you to relax. Except Wanda was more social than she seemed.

Nothing wrong with having friends over, but nothing could have prepared you for the group of kids that walked in as all the weeks homework was sprawled out on the bed and laptop open to some YouTube video, various snack wrappers littered on the mess as well. A slight feel of embarrassment as the group of Wanda’s friends from Dr.Strange’s class walked in. 

Each and everyone one greeted Wanda before finding various places to sit in the slightly too small space. Quickly moving to clean up, a move too fast had you bumping into someone, looking up to see the brunette from class, a soft smile gracing his lips. 

“Sorry,” you mumbled.

“Got everything, doll?” He asked, not letting you answer before helping you clean your bed off as his friends started catching up on what happened over the brief few hours they didn’t see each other. 

He ignored your insisting that you had it, throwing trash away and stacking you papers neatly on your desk. “I’m Bucky by the way,” he smiled. 

“Oh, uh, I’m (Y/N). Here sit, sorry Wanda kinda sprung it on me last minute that she invited you all over.” A mumbled apology as you fixed yourself on the bed, covering yourself up and grabbing your phone. 

“Its all good really. You hungry?” He asked pulling his phone out.

“I uh- kinda? I can always eat.”

Bucky turned to look at his friends, “You assholes want pizza?” A chorus of agreements as his bright blue eyes turned to look at you. “What kind, doll?”

A night that ended up being more fun than anticipated. Anxiety fueled decisions kept any bad mistakes from being made. But with every passing moment an ache to be a little closer to Bucky would persist. 

Throughout the night you grew to learn a little about everyone. Steve was the quarterback of the football team and a sweet little Christian boy who was a junior, along with the rest of his friends. They knew Wanda because of Sam, who played soccer with Wanda’s twin Pietro, and may also be the person Wanda had a crush on but that was something not yet confirmed. The pretty redhead was Natasha, a child of Russian immigrant parents who grew up on the rougher side of town and had a mean exterior, but was a softie at heart.

Then Bucky. Real name James, but he adopted the name Bucky, a shortened version of his middle name. He was a junior, majoring in pre-law with a minor in business. He could speak fluent Romanian and Russian. And was a ladies man. 

It was obvious really, but something about the confirmation made a tinge of pain fill your chest. He was so sweet and gentlemanly, a kind and courteous nature with an almost mysterious smile making every girl wonder what he could be hiding. It would be so easy to fall for him. 

A silent promise to yourself as they all left, you wouldn’t become another notch in his belt. Despite the dazzling smile he gave you, and the warm hug, the thanks for letting them intrude, the slide of his (and the rest of the groups) number into your palm with a lingering touch. You wouldn’t be his next prey. Your mother warned you of boys like him.

The sound of way too earlier alarms for a Saturday morning, the smell of coffee brewing, the warmth of the sun creeping in through the blinds, a groan as you turned to your dorm mate who was already wide awake on reading a book. 

“Good Morning!” She chirped at you, eyes never leaving her book. 

“Why’re you up so early?” Another groan as you say up, stretching the last bit of sleep from your muscles. 

“Well, me and the rest of the group decided that every Saturday morning we’d all have breakfast together. And per someone’s request who I am not allowed to say, I was to wake you up and see if you wanted to join us.” Wanda finished her sentence as she sat her book down on her night stand. “Care to join the living for a quick breakfast before all of them head to practice?”

A soft sigh as you grabbed your phone, checking the time to read 7:30 am. “How long do I have?”

“We’re meeting them at 8:30, figured I’d give you enough time to shower if you wanted.”

A soft nod as you stood. “Sure, but,” a playful glare sent her way, “Next time, I’ll hide your phone charger so I can sleep in.”

A soft melody of a giggle, “Noted. Now go get ready.”

A warm shower that wasn’t quite long enough, a quick application of mascara and lip gloss, a warm fuzzy light blue sweater and a pair of black high waisted jeans, worn out converse - perfect way to start the morning of an all too chilly summer Saturday. Wanda led the way as the two of you chatted, it was becoming easier to call her your friend. Sure she was from a more wealthy family, and could sometimes be a pain, but she was down to earth and genuine with every word.

It had only been a week and she was already pushing you to be out of your shell. A passing comment you thought that went unnoticed about hoping to find more than one friend this semester and she had already introduced you to a whole group. A good hearted, strong souled girl you couldn’t help but admire.

Walking into the food hall, the groups of varsity jacketed boys was quick to find, heading in their direction. This time Wanda’s brother was there as well as a smaller boy. Standing off to the side awkwardly you watched as Wanda tousled her brothers hair, standing behind him for a moment before hugging him while he sat. “Is the white hair helping you get any like you hoped?” She teased, earning a laugh from everyone in the group.

A prayer that Wanda would acknowledge your existence again was cut off by a warm hand on your shoulder, turning your attention you saw Bucky, smiling warmly. “Hey, (Y/N/N),” he hummed softly. “Since Wanda is preoccupied - Hey, Pete,” the smaller boy look up from his plate of food, smiling softly, “That’s Peter, hes the kicker for the football team. And the boy with silver hair is Peitro, Wanda’s twin brother who you will very quickly come to learn it 7 minutes and 42 seconds younger than her. She pulls it a lot. Hes on the soccer team, not sure what position though.”

The warm smile never left his lips as he pulled his hand away. “Go grab your food, you can sit next to me when you get back.”

A breakfast that quickly reminded you of breakfast at home, laughter and grumbled groans of tiredness, too much food and a warmth that just embodied happiness. Jokes and smiles, everyone stealing off of each others plates. 

The insistent nagging in your ear to remind you not to glance of Bucky too often, the flutter of your heart you tried to ignore whenever his leg would briefly touch yours. A slight blush when he was so kind as to even take your plate and clean up your mess without even asking. 

As the group begin to leave, Steve came up to you, a soft welcoming smile on his face. “You don’t have to be a stranger in class now, mkay?” His voice has a slight tease to it. “You’re one of us now. And don’t let Barnes scare you off.”

#boys like you #bucky #bucky barnes #james barnes #bucky x reader #bucky barnes x reader #james barnes x reader #bucky fluff #bucky barnes fluff #james barnes fluff #college!bucky #college!bucky x reader #college!bucky fluff #college au

[bab-ybird]

Friday Nights with Defsoul

Pairing: Jaebeom x Reader

Genre: College!au, Best friend!Jaebeom, best friends to lovers, fluff, fluff, and more fluff

Word Count: 8,245 words

[ ft. GOT7 and some DAY6 members ]

A/N Yes, I am aware that I misspelled Jaebeom’s name here, but I wrote this before he clarified the spelling, so until I find time to edit this, you’re just going to have to sit through jAebUm lmao oops; thanks for reading tho! mwah

~

It's been a while since Jaebum last attended a party. Not because he was busy- even though he was- but because he just didn't feel like it. After all, parties were only fun when he was in the mood to get wasted and spend the night dancing with his best friends, so he didn't see the point of attending one when he felt like doing something else more productive.

Like hosting his radio segment. He'd only decided to join the campus' radio station as a DJ in the October of the previous academic year. It was in his third year of college that he composed a significant amount of songs and gained enough experience to be confident enough to share them with the world that was his university. Finally giving into Park Sungjin’s, his senior, antics about becoming a part of the crew, Jaebum now appeared on the station every Friday night to share his music in a segment he (lamely) liked to call "Friday Nights with Defsoul". Now, he was in his second year of hosting the segment, and his fourth year of college, set to graduate at the end of March- if he managed to not screw anything up.

Despite not being in the mood to party, Jaebum couldn't say no to his friend Jackson's invitation- not when Jackson was using this party as an excuse to finally relax from his hectic life. It was rare that Jackson was willing to let loose for the night (he was always so busy with his extra-curricular activities), and since Jaebum figured that his friend needed all his support during this tough time in his life, he agreed to be present. So here he was, half-heartedly sipping at a drink that his over-enthusiastic friend, Park Jaehyung, had given him, standing at the kitchen counter, and snacking on a bowl of chips that he had poured for himself.

"Jaebum! My man!"

Ah. The sweet sound of a dongsaeng forgetting to call me hyung.

Hong Kong native and fellow performance group member Jackson Wang carelessly calls out his hyung's name as he bounds through the kitchen door with a red cup in his hands. "I've been looking all over for you!"

"Have you really?" Jaebum asks sarcastically. "You seemed so eager to leave me alone, by myself, when you went to go mingle with your Chinese friends."

Failing to notice that Jackson didn't come up to him alone, Jaebum almost misses the small chuckle that comes from Jackson's friend. A girl with a lean frame, pale skin, long black hair, and the warmest brown eyes Jaebum had ever seen watches their exchange silently. You stand behind Jackson, watching amusedly as he playfully hit his hyung's arm. "Aish, hyung, don't be like that. They're Chinese, like me. They remind me of home."

Jaebum nods understandingly, patting his friend on the back. "Okay, okay, I get it. Go have fun- "

"EY, LUCAS! Glad you could make it, man!"

And just like that, Jackson forgets about his friends and leaves the kitchen to go mingle with a handful of people who look too young to be at a college party.

"Don't they look a little too young to be here?" Jaebum comments, eyeing the new arrivals and starting a conversation with the girl that Jackson had left him with to entertain.

You seem to know who he's talking about and nod. "Yeah, they are. They're just in high school."

Jaebum's eyes nearly pop out of his head. "Eh?! And Jackson invited them here? How does he even know them?"

Amused at his reaction, you smile. "They met at a summer camp a couple of months ago. You know what he's like, it's so easy for him to get homesick. I'm happy he's able to make so many friends that let him feel like he's at home, even if just for a little while."

Jaebum watches the kitchen door warily, largely aware of the trouble that the underaged teens could get into if they were caught drinking. Sensing his discomfort, you speak up again. "I wouldn't worry too much about them. I made Jackson swear that he would take care of them tonight. No alcohol, no drugs, no funny business whatsoever."

These words unexpectedly give him comfort, despite the fact that they come from a complete stranger. "Thanks." He says. "That makes me feel better."

You nod, but don’t say anything back as you reach into the fridge and grab one of the many smoothie bottles that Jackson liked to stock up on.

"You seem to be really close to him. How come I've never heard of you before?" Jaebum asks.

Swallowing the sip you had just taken, you sit on a counter stool as you answer. "Jackson and I go back. Summer before freshman year, I think? We met at summer camp."

Raising an eyebrow, Jaebum tilts his head, confused. "Oh, so you're-?"

"Chinese?" You chuckle. "No. I'm Spanish-Korean, actually."

Jaebum's head tilts in confusion. "Spanish-Korean? But then why would you go to one of Jackson's Chinese summer camps?"

"I speak Chinese. At least, now I do. Back then, I wanted to get a better grasp of the language before heading off to college, so I decided to attend a Chinese summer camp." You tell him, taking another sip.

"So how many languages do you speak? Or is it just Spanish, Chinese, and Korean?" Jaebum can't stop himself from asking.

You shake your head, smiling proudly. "I'm also fluent in English, Russian, Japanese, and French."

"Wow." Jaebum's voice comes out filled with awe. "That's amazing. It really is, I've never met someone fluent in so many languages. You could conquer the world, probably."

Chuckling softly, you brush the hair out of your face. "Thanks. I'm flattered."

"If you don't mind me asking, why so many?" Once again, Jaebum can't keep his nose out of your business.

"Oh, I want to be a translator or a travel guide." You tell him honestly. "I love travelling, and the only thing I'm good at is talking to people, so I figured I'd make a career out of it."

"That sounds fun." Jaebum comments. "So, your major is-?"

"Majoring in Linguistics, minoring in World History." You answer. "What about you?"

The conversation is suddenly about him, and he thinks it’s such a shame because he could spend all night learning the tiniest details about this very interesting girl.

"Major in Film, minor in Music Theory." He says.

"Oh, you're into music?" You ask. "Do you compose?"

Jaebum nods at this, takes a sip of his drink, and gestures for you to share his bowl of chips.

"Are you, perhaps, on the campus radio?" You raise an eyebrow.

Jaebum is shocked. Unless he told them directly, no one ever even guessed that he was a DJ for the campus' radio station. "How did you know?"

You snap your fingers, looking at him with a triumphant look in your eyes. "I knew your voice sounded familiar! You're Defsoul, aren't you? The DJ that comes on every Friday night?"

Oh, my god. For the first time in his life, Jaebum is speechless. How did this girl, who didn't even know him before this, figure that out faster than any of his actual friends?

"Um- I, uh- "

Taking a sip from your drink, you continue. "I love your segment. I've been listening to it ever since you started."

Wow. "Thank you. That means so much to me, really." Jaebum finally finds his words.

"Although..." You hesitate, and this makes Jaebum even more curious.

"What is it?" He pries.

"Well," You pause. "Have you ever considered, um...calling it by a different name?"

...excuse me? "Come again?"

"Don't misunderstand me, please!" You hurriedly apologize. "Not to be rude, or anything, it's just...your segment name is sort of..."

Jaebum senses that you’re having difficulty putting it nicely, so he offers words of his own. "Lame? Boring? Cliché?"

You nod, relieved that you don't have to say it yourself. "Exactly."

Jaebum gives you an expression of distaste. "I happen to like calling it that, thank you very much. My friends think it's a good name too!"

"I'm not saying that they don't! It's just that you could have a name that's catchier, more unique, more memorable- so maybe one with not too many syllables in it- "

"Okay, okay, stop. I get it." Despite himself, Jaebum finds himself laughing, thoroughly amused by this girl and her personality. "I still don't know your name."

"I’m Y/N." You tell him.

Jaebum offers his hand for you to shake. "Im Jaebum."

"Finally." You say, firmly gripping onto his hand as you shake it. "A name and face behind the lamest radio segment name in the world."

Jaebum's jaw drops as he watches you laugh with an incredulous look on his face. "Wow, you really- "

"I'm joking, I'm joking!" You cackle unreservedly. "Forgive me."

Jaebum decides to poke some fun at you. "No, I don't think I will."

Your face falls. "Ah, oppa, please! We only just met!"

Jaebum shakes his head stubbornly, taking a sip of his drink.

"Fine." You resolve. "If it helps my case in any way, I'll personally make it my mission to find you a better segment name."

Jaebum shrugs, swallowing his drink as he watches you munch on his chips. "I don't see the point of changing it, to be honest. I'll be gone in a couple of months."

"Okay, first of all, graduation's still in March. It's only September, you still have a long way to go." You point out. "Second of all, that's all the more reason to change it! You don't want to leave this school known as the guy who couldn't come up with a cooler name for his segment now, do you?"

Jaebum narrows his eyes. "As much as I hate to admit it, you make a valid point."

"Of course, I do." At this, Jaebum scoffs, making you laugh. "Look, since you're obviously incapable of doing it yourself, I'll do it, okay?"

Jaebum looks at you incredulously. "Yah. Don't you think you've insulted me enough?"

"Sorry! Sorry, I'm joking." You apologize quickly. "I can't help it. I'll stop, I promise. As an apology for my behavior, how about I make you a drink?"

Jaebum accepts, looking into his cup with distaste. "Why the hell not? You owe it to me to make me one, and this one tastes like shit anyways."

You get up from your stool. "I'll be right back."

The both of you fall into conversation so naturally that night, that neither of you notice how long you talk for until the music dies and the small crowd goes quiet. You exit the kitchen to be greeted by the sight of passed out bodies sprawled across the floor, the party host nowhere in sight. While you do a thorough check of the first floor for any conscious party-goers, Jaebum does a sweep of the second floor to find Jackson unconscious on his bed. Setting some painkillers and a glass of water on his bedside table, Jaebum goes back downstairs and leaves the house with you, locking the door as you walk out. You quietly chat about random things as he walks you back to your dorm, and Jaebum decides he wants to be your friend. Obtaining your number, the both of you text each other the next day. And the day after that. And the day after that.

Suddenly, going to parties doesn't seem so bad anymore.

-=-=-=-

Jaebum feels his phone vibrate in his pocket as he exits his last class of the day.

Y/N: Hey, are you doing anything for the rest of the day?

He feels a smile growing on his lips, but he stops himself from smiling at his phone in public.

JB: No, why?

Y/N: Last class' prof isn't showing up, and everyone else is busy. Want to get dinner?

JB: It's like...5pm.

Y/N: Fine. Want to eat food, extend eating into the hours of the night, and call it dinner?

At this, Jaebum allows the corners of his mouth to curl up in a grin.

JB: Sure. Where do you want to meet?

Y/N: I'm at the convenience store in front of the social sciences building. Bring your wallet.

Jaebum can't help but chuckle at this. He immediately stuffs his notebook in his bag, and heads for the social sciences building. When he gets there, he sees you standing outside the convenience store across the street. He's about to cross when he sees you motion for him to stay put, crossing the street yourself. In your hand is a plastic bag of various snacks and drinks that you had just purchased.

"Take this, please." You heave, holding the bag out for him to take. Jaebum receives it, noticing red marks on your hand, left behind by the weight of the bag. "Thank you. God, that's heavy."

"You could've asked for two bags." Jaebum points out, falling into step beside you as the both of you walk in the direction of a nearby park. You shake your head adamantly.

"Tsk, tsk, Jaebum. Don't think like that. It's not good for the environment." You tut, imitating the tone of a mom scolding her child. "Do you want help with your bag?"

He raises an eyebrow. "You just gave this to me, and now you want it back?"

"Not the convenience store bag, dummy." You smile. "Your backpack, I meant."

"Ah. No, I'm fine." Jaebum refuses.

"You sure?" You press. "The bag I gave you is quite heavy, and I'm not carrying anything. I'd feel bad if you were the only one doing the work here."

Jaebum smirks, turning his head to look at you. "What kind of man would I be if I made you carry my bag for me?"

Your jaw drops and you put a hand to your chest dramatically. "Now why'd you have to bring gender roles into this? I'm just offering an exchange of baggage!"

Shaking his head, Jaebum's smile doesn't leave his face as the both of you arrive at the park and settle on the grass. He sits, crossing his ripped-jean clad legs. You mirror his position, sitting in front of him, comfortable in your leggings. Tugging the plastic bag closer, you pours out its contents onto the grass, revealing bags of chips, and four bottles of drinks, two of each kind.

"First things first," You start. "Don't think I'm some kind of gold digger or anything like that just because I told you to bring your wallet."

Jaebum smirks, looking at you with amusement. "Wasn't planning on it."

"I only asked you to bring your wallet because since I bought us snacks, I expect you to pay for dinner." You declare, ripping open a bag of chips. "And not in the gentleman-should-always-pay manner, but in the it's-my-turn-to-pay manner."

"Sounds fair." He helps himself to another bag, opening it and setting it in between them so that the both of them can share. "What are you, some kind of feminist?"

You cock your head to the side in genuine confusion. "Huh?"

"That's the second comment you've made today about gender roles."

"Oh." You laugh, understanding. "No, I'm not. I just don't like it when people hear my words but listen to a different meaning, so I have a habit of saying things explicitly. Miscommunication is so common these days, don't you think?"

He nods in agreement. "Too true."

"Besides," you add, lifting a chip to your mouth but not eating it yet. "it's easier to let people know what type of person you are straight up instead of having them judge every single thing you do."

Jaebum thoughtfully watches you as you continue to munch on your salty snack. As a student, he was too familiar with the saying 'honesty is the best policy', having heard it almost every day, but you take it to a different level, give it a completely different meaning.

Noticing his blatant staring, you raise an eyebrow in the middle of chewing. "Why are you staring at me like that?" You ask, voice muffled by the hand you raise to cover your mouth.

"Oh. Uh, nothing." Jaebum answers, averting his eyes. "You're probably the most honest person I've ever met."

The expression on your face is unreadable, Jaebum decides, as you nod.

"It's a good thing." He adds, just in case it isn't clear.

Not failing to pick up on this, you chuckle, tucking your hair behind your ear. "Really? Most people don't think so."

"Oh? Why not?"

You shrug. "A lot of people say I'm too blunt. Too brutal when it comes to expressing myself. That I don't know how to sugar coat even the harshest words."

"And how do you feel about that?"

You shrug, meeting his eyes. "I don't really care. They're all empty words. At the end of the day, the truth is the truth, and nothing can change that."

At that moment, Jaebum notices the sun starting to set. Its light tints everything in hues of orange and purple, reflecting off of the brown of your eyes. The last rays of the day kiss your skin and the strands of your hair, giving you an ethereal glow.

"Stay put." Jaebum orders, reaching into his bag and digging around for his camera.

"Didn't have plans of moving at all." You comment.

Jaebum brings out his camera and turns it on, hoping to capture the scene before him.

"Smile." He tells you.

Lightly grinning and striking a casual pose, you stare back at the camera lens. You watch as Jaebum frequently changes his position, making sure to not leave any angle uncaptured. He even plucks a random daisy he found, asking you to hold it up to your face and pose with it. You oblige, even moving your snacks aside so you could get up to stand and pose as Jaebum directs you from behind the camera.

By the time Jaebum decides he's done with the impromptu photoshoot, the sun's completely gone, and your space on the ground is dimly lit by a nearby streetlight. You finish the rest of your snacks and drinks while looking at the pictures he took, and when that's done, fall into natural conversation as you walk around, looking for a good restaurant.

"Was that for a project?" You ask as you’re seated at one of the tables in a barbeque restaurant.

"The pictures? No." Jaebum answers, picking up the menu card and scanning it. The both of you had previously decided that since he would be the one paying, he would be choosing the menu for tonight.

"Then why take so many?" You ask, thanking the waitress that comes to bring them your side dishes.

Before the waitress leaves, Jaebum places his orders and returns the menu card. "I had to take a photography class in my freshman year. It became a hobby of mine."

"Do you have a photography account on Instagram or something?" You ask. "Photographers are into that, right?"

"Yeah, I do." He confirms, somewhat baffled. "How are you so good at that?"

"Hm?" You raise your eyebrows. "Good at what?"

"You're the only person to ask me these without me having to mention it first. None of my friends asked about the radio segment or my Instagram. I've barely known you for a week and you've already figured out both!"

You shrug, smiling and sitting up as the meat is served. "Intuition, I guess."

As Jaebum gets to work in grilling the meat, you nibble on the side dishes. Dinner is quiet. The two of you fall into a comfortable silence, your chewing being accompanied by soft sounds of approval at the taste of the meat.

You guys finish eating just before the clock strikes 8pm. You wait outside as Jaebum settles the bill, and you both decide you want to take a walk before returning home.

"Before I forget," You start, brushing your hair back. From his angle, Jaebum can see the way the streetlights illuminate your face, giving your skin a warm glow. The shadows that fall across your features contrast greatly against the milky color of your skin, giving your face depth and definition. The moonlight kisses the highest points of your face and brings a twinkle to your eyes, nature giving you an ethereal glow for the second time that day. Despite it only being his second time to witness this kind of natural beauty, Jaebum didn't think he would ever get tired of seeing you like this, nor did he think he would ever stop craving to capture every single moment like it.

"Def's Soul." You say.

Jaebum blinks. "What?"

"I told you I would come up with a new name for your segment." You state simply. "I decided on one just in time for your next appearance on the station."

"But, that's just my code name."

You hum in disagreement. "No, it's not. Def's Soul. As in, the soul of Def. Your soul."

Jaebum looks at you in amusement. He has to admit; it is kind of catchy.

"Music comes from within, right? By sharing your music to the world, you're giving everyone who listens a peek into your soul, your mind. I thought of calling it 'Peeking Into Defsoul', but that's just not attractive to listen to, it has a weird connotation, and it's worse than what you've got now. You can also call it 'Soul in Seoul; by Def', but I think 'Def's Soul' is the best." You finish your mini ramble about the segment name, turning to look at Jaebum's reaction. Jaebum can see on your face that you’re happy with what you had come up with, and abandons all plans of bickering with you about not needing to change the name of his segment at all.

"Okay." He concludes. "Def's Soul it is."

-=-=-=-

"Hey, everybody, welcome back. I hope you all had a wonderful week, hung out with some friends, aced all your tests. I know I certainly did. Even if you didn't, there's always next week.

Before we get down to business and listen to some sick tunes, I just want everyone to know that I'm going to be changing my segment name. That's right, from now on this segment will no longer be known as 'Friday Nights with Defsoul', but 'Def's Soul'.  As in my soul.

If you want to know why, ask away and I'll reply in a bit, but for now, let's welcome the weekend with Sucker by the Jonas Brothers."

The live comments feed is suddenly full of questions on why he suddenly decided to change the segment name. When the song comes to an end, Jaebum turns the microphone back on.

"A lot of you are asking why I suddenly decided to change the name.

To be honest, it wasn't my idea at all. I was content with the previous name, but I met someone who recognized my voice from radio and told me that it was such a corny name. So, she helped choose a new name, and that's when she mentioned 'Def's Soul'.

Basically, it means that by showing you all my music and my personal playlists, I'm giving you guys a peek into my soul, my mind. A song says a lot about the composer and lyricist, the same way you can tell a lot about someone by the way they compile their personal playlists.

In my opinion, it's one of the most intimate things a person can bare, yet also one of the vaguest. As those of you who study the arts should know, art can be interpreted in many different ways. Some interpretations are exactly the message you want to convey, and others are the exact opposite. So, by sharing my music with you, I'm baring my soul while at the same time, covering it up for you guys to decipher and uncover.

Here's your next look: we have one of my personal favorites, Teenager, by yours truly, featuring my friend, Jackson Wang. Enjoy."

Jaebum switches off the microphone, leaning back in his chair and sipping on a bottle of water as he listens to one of his latest compositions blare through the speakers of the studio.

Things in front of my eyes look new...

You brighten even the deep part of my heart...

-=-=-=-

"You were right." Jaebum comments, sinking down on the grass. You look up, and, seeing the cat in Jaebum's arms, take hold of it immediately, cooing and petting its head. "Def's Soul is a much better name."

You raise an eyebrow, looking at him triumphantly. "Oh? What made you realize it?"

"A couple of kids in my cinematography class were talking about it." He says. "Then I passed a couple of people on my way here who were also talking about it. I guess it just rolls of the tongue more easily."

You grin as you strokes the cat's head. It purrs, nuzzling its head against your arm. "I'm glad."

You stroke it a couple of more times. "What's her name?"

Jaebum looks at you blankly, clearly not paying attention. You chuckle. "Your cat. What's her name?"

"Nora." Jaebum watches as his cat cozies up to you, looking the most content she ever had. "She likes you."

"Really? I like her too." You grin widely, bringing Nora to your face to rub cheeks with her.

"You should cat-sit sometime." Jaebum suggests. "I tend to get really busy with practice."

"Practice? For what?" You ask.

"Dance practice. I'm part of a performance group."

You stare at him unbelievingly. "No way. For real?"

Jaebum nods nonchalantly.

"That's so cool! You're so multi-talented, can I watch you guys practice? I'll take care of Nora in the practice room and I'll stay out of your way. Promise!"

Chuckling at your enthusiasm, Jaebum finds himself nodding. "Sure. You can stay with Youngjae's friend who always comes."

"Yes!" You cheer, then lean down to talk to Nora. "You hear that Nora? We're going to see Jaebum-oppa dance!"

A strange feeling appears in Jaebum's chest, one he can't explain. "What?"

Looking up innocently, you meet his eyes. "Hm?"

"What did you call me?"

Tilting your head confusedly, you answer. "Oppa?"

Calm down, Jaebum, your heart's beating a little too fast right now. Stop thinking about how cute she is when she does that. "Why? You never call me that."

"I was...talking to Nora..." You say, confused as to why it was such a big deal.

Oh, Y/N. If only you knew.

-=-=-=-

A couple of days later, you find yourself walking alongside Jaebum, Nora's carrier in hand. He's leading you to their practice room, telling you stories on the way there. Like how one time, the boys had a bonding night and ended up drinking too many bottles of soju. One of their maknaes, Bambam from Thailand, had apparently unbuttoned the top buttons of his shirt and, singing wildly, started swinging around on a streetlight as if it was a pole. When the both of you arrive at the studio, your stomach hurt from all the laughing you did on your walk there.

As you approach the door, muffled sounds can be heard through the walls from the inside.

"Yah, get that away from me!" Youngjae, Jaebum notes.

"Kim Yugyeom, I swEAR to god I will kick your ass if you- " Youngjae's friend, Nayoung.

"I'm joking, noona, I'm joking!" That's Yugyeom.

"Hyung, please-!" Youngjae again.

"What happened to my hair?!" Bambam, in front of the mirror, probably.

"Really, no one cares." Jinyoung.

Plus, a loud cackle that can only belong to Jackson. That leaves Mark, though he's probably resting on the couch, so everyone's present.

As he slowly swings the door open, you clearly hear the commotion inside- though it sounds more like chaos to you.

"Sorry. They're a bit noisy." Jaebum tells you as he holds open the door so you can walk through.

"A bit?" You scoff. "I'll say."

Fully stepping into the room, your suspicions are only confirmed as you’re met with the sight of five guys and a girl causing a scene in the wide space. From where he stands, Jaebum can see Jackson chasing Youngjae with something furry in his hand, the latter not realizing that it was fake and running away screaming for his hyung to stop. Yugyeom's holding out something as equally furry, except it's directed towards the only other female in the room. The girl, Nayoung, then proceeds to take one of the few pillows on the couch, raising it above her head to protect herself from whatever Yugyeom is threatening her with, before knocking the thing out of his hands and chasing him around the room, ready to beat his ass. Bambam stands in front of the mirror in a state of distress as he runs his fingers through his now blonde hair. Jinyoung stands at his side, looking like he had better things to do, yet still taking the time to laugh at Bambam's situation. All this chaos and Mark is calmly perched on the couch, tapping away at his phone and playing a game.

At the sight of a newcomer, this all stops.

"Everyone, this is- "

"Y/N!" A loud voice that can only belong to Jackson yells. You laugh as one of your closest friends comes running and tackles you in a hug. Jaebum suddenly feels the need to unwrap Jackson's arms, but since he knows that you guys are close friends, he controls himself from following through with his tendencies.

One by one, the others unfreeze from their positions. Bambam is the first to approach, though for a completely different reason.

Sitting down in front of you, he unlatches the opening of Nora's carrier and lets her crawl onto his lap. "Hi Nora~ I missed you. It's been a while." He coos.

Jaebum sets his things down in a corner of the room and watches as Jackson introduces you to everyone. The group's practice ensues after that, and you and Nayoung sit on the couch, making sure to keep out of the boys' way.

While he dances, Jaebum steals glances of you in the mirror. His chest becomes warm and his smile only grows bigger whenever he manages to catch you enjoying the song they're dancing to- his song. Page.

By the end of it all, the nine of them gather in a circle on the floor, sharing tupperwares of Nayoung's homemade kimbap, stir-fried pork, and rice balls. Then, as if the heavy snack isn't enough to satiate their hunger, the group leaves the studio and heads for a restaurant just halfway down the block.

Jaebum ends up sitting beside you and across Jackson. The group place their orders for boxes of chicken and bottles of beer. Once the food arrives, everyone's mouth is soon preoccupied with eating.

"Hey Jaebum-hyung. Are we still up for that music video shooting next week?" Jinyoung pipes up, taking a sip of his beer. "I need to know whether or not I can visit home."

"I'm still looking for someone to help me film. A lot of the people in my class are too busy with their own projects." Jaebum answers. "If I don't find anyone by Thursday, you can tell your mom you'll be home for the three-day weekend."

"Why don't you ask Y/N to do it?" Jackson says, gesturing to you with nod of his head. "You were a videographer at one point, right? In high school?"

You narrow your eyes at him. "I don't remember telling you that, but yes, I was."

"Really? Would you be willing to help us film?" Jaebum asks, turning to his left to face you. "It's for my final project, and you'll be fully credited."

You shrug. "Sure. Just give me a time and place and I'll let you know if I'm free."

The following weekend, you help them film, and Jaebum finds that he really likes the way you do it. He also has fun editing the music video for his cinematography class, and decides that it would be a good idea to film more music and performance videos. The credits are always the same; you as the camerawoman, Nayoung as the hair stylist and makeup artist, Jaebum as the editor, director, and producer, and GOT7 as the cast. It's a fun little hobby.

Months pass and before you know it, it's the last month of your senior year. In a couple of weeks, you would be taking the last exams of your college career and a few weeks after that, you'd be graduating and leaving this place forever.

That should've been Jaebum's only worry.

But he started noticing recently that you were looking a little worse for wear. Your undereye area was looking a lot darker than normal, your skin turned a sickly pale tone, and you lost a lot of weight. He knew that you were aware of these changes as you started wearing masks more, and often hid behind baggy clothing- most of which consisted of his hoodies.

He'd tried talking to you about it, but you, like him, weren't the type to be open about your struggles and personal problems. So, he'd let you be, watching over you from afar, and taking care of you in whatever way he could. Jaebum would drive you to your part-time job if he was free, so you could rest in his car instead of tiring yourself out by taking the bus and walking. He'd show up at your apartment in the morning when he knew you would still be in there, more often than not holding a breakfast pastry and smoothie in his hands. He'd make sure you ate properly and didn't miss any meals, and even helped you study for your exams (Most of his were practical, anyway. He didn't have as much to memorize as you did.). He was the reason the amount of cup noodles you were accustomed to consuming lessened significantly.

Despite all of Jaebum's efforts, you didn't seem to improve at all.

On this particular Thursday morning, Jaebum knocks on your door holding a ham and cheese croissant in one hand and a jug of organic orange juice (courtesy of Jackson) in the other. There's a stumble from the inside of the unit, and you open the door, flustered.

Cute. Jaebum watches as you stand there in your mismatched pajamas, bare face, and messy hair that's sticking up all over the place. You cover your mouth, yawning. He frowns at the sight of your eye bags and sickly skin, but covers this up with a cheery grin. "Good morning!"

"Jaebum?" You mumble sleepily. "What time is it?"

He checks his watch. "Almost 10 in the morning. I wanted to wake you up so you'd have time to eat before your 1pm exam."

At the mention of the academic enemy, your eyes widen. "Shit. I was supposed to wake up two hours ago! I'm not done studying!"

You run back into the apartment, leaving Jaebum to let himself in and lock the door behind him. He watches as you frantically flip through your notes and continues studying your reviewer in obvious distress.

Setting the food beside her, he ruffles your hair. "Eat."

Without looking back to check if you listen, Jaebum makes his way into the kitchen and starts cooking up lunch for the two of you. He figures a healthy serving of spicy soft tofu stew would be just what you needed to get through the day.

Jaebum adds lots of meat to the pot, and even cooks rice for the both of you. While the stew is boiling, he sets the table, bringing out utensils, glasses, and a pitcher of water. By the time he finishes cooking, it's 11am, and he guesses that you have just enough time to eat, shower, and cram study some more.

He brings the steaming pot of jjigae to the dining table and literally has to peel you away from your notes. It doesn't take much to make you eat; you quickly figure out that the sooner you finish your share of the meal, the sooner Jaebum would allow you to return to your cramming. Scarfing down the food with no shame, you finish eating in less than ten minutes, while Jaebum sits beside you, leisurely consuming his portion. He eats slowly, calmly, and watches amusedly as you become frantic about studying again.

Jaebum finishes up his meal and cleans the table, even doing the dishes. When the clock strikes exactly 12:15pm, he forces you to take a shower, holding the door close from the outside. He only leaves after you stop trying to pry it open and he hears the water running.

By 12:50pm, Jaebum is walking you to your exam hall, where he stops a few feet from the door to let you go in by yourself. You stop in your tracks, turn to face Jaebum, and give him a shy smile.

"Thank you..." you start. "For doing what you did. You didn't need to, but you did. All of it."

Jaebum finds himself smiling, his chest warming up. "It's no big deal."

"No, but," you continue. "I'm really grateful. More than you could ever know. I owe you one."

"You don't owe me anything." Jaebum tells you. "Consider this as payment for all the times you filmed for us."

You start to shake your head, but Jaebum speaks up again. "Besides, as your friend, it's sort of my job to take care of you."

You chuckle and smile, staring at him with fond eyes. "Still. Thank you."

Jaebum doesn't expect what you do next. He's frozen in place as you step forward to stand on your toes and press a soft kiss to his cheek. There's no trace of shyness on your face as you step back, give him a bright smile, and turn around to enter the exam hall.

Jaebum's sure that his ears had gone red by the time he finally moves (a good five minutes later). Unable to calm his heart down, he takes deep breaths as he makes his way back to his apartment. The moment he steps in and closes the door behind him, Nora comes padding up to him with her soft paws- the exact moment he decides to let out an excited and joyful scream.

She kissed me. She actually kissed me.

The smile on Jaebum's face never leaves him for the rest of the day.

-=-=-=-

It's a couple of days later that Jaebum convinces you to finally take a break. Between your part-time job and studying for finals, you were exhausted, and it was starting to show physically.

Since he knows that you would study if he left you alone in your apartment, he manages to drag you out of yours and into his with the goal of hanging out by eating a big meal together. Jaebum had prepared multiple boxes and orders of delivery food; pizza, hamburgers, jokbal, fried chicken, bossam, you name it. He's rather proud of how he set it all up in his living room: a comfortable layout of pillows and blankets, the coffee table in front of them completely covered in the food, and his TV ready to play whatever movie Netflix could provide.

"So how do you think you did on your exams so far?" Jaebum asks as you both begin to open up the different boxes of food.

"Let's not talk about that, please. I'm going to want to study again and that completely defies the purpose of this break." You respond, helping yourself to the jokbal.

Jaebum nods. "Fair enough."

He clears his throat. "How are you, then?"

You shrug. "Fine enough. How are you?"

"Fine enough." Jaebum repeats, a small grin on his face. You mirrors his expression when you catch onto what he did.

Meeting with you was always like this. Somehow, you brought out the playful side of him and you almost always ended up giggling at nothing.

"I'm just a little tired but I'll be fine." You add, bringing a piece of meat to your lips and giving him a half-hearted smile.

Jaebum studies you as he eats, stealing glances at you every now and then. When you both decide you're done eating, Jaebum persuades you to rest on the couch while he cleans up. He walks back into the living room to find that you had started watching a movie, and sinks down onto the couch beside you. Hardly paying attention to the movie, Jaebum finds himself watching you.

He's under the impression that you’re completely immersed in the movie and didn't think you'd notice, but you pause the movie and set the remote down, turning to look at him with a questioning look on your face.

"What is it, Jaebum?" You ask.

Jaebum gives you an innocent look. "Hmm?"

"You've been staring at me since dinner. What's the matter?"

Jaebum sighs. He isn't getting out of this one. "I'm just worried, I guess."

"About what?"

"You. You suck at taking care of yourself. Every time I see you, it's like your eye bags have gotten darker, you've lost more weight, you have less energy, you're paler-"

"Okay, okay, I get it." You cut him off, chuckling. Jaebum stares at you incredulously.

"Are you laughing?" He asks. "Is this funny to you? I'm worried about your health and well-being and you have the audacity to laugh at me?"

You shake your head, smiling at him. "You're too cute, Jaebum-ah."

Jaebum stops and his body has no other reaction other than to huff and turn away.

"I'm not laughing at you. Promise. It's just cute how you're so worried." You say. "Why are you even bothered so much anyway? It's not like I'm dying."

Jaebum gives you a deadpan look. "This is what I get for being concerned? You're an ungrateful friend."

This makes you burst out into loud laughter, and it's so contagious that Jaebum can't help but join in. When the both of you calm down, you give him another smile. "You don't need to worry, Jaebum. I'm fine."

Jaebum doesn't agree. He always worries about you. But he doesn't say that and just nods.

You turn away. "Geez, you worry too much. It's not like you're my boyfriend or anything."

Jaebum freezes at that statement. For some reason, it hurt. A lot.

You’ve already resumed playing the movie, so he mumbles to himself. "What's so wrong with that?"

"Hmm? What was that?" You ask, pausing the movie again to look at him.

Jaebum turns his face to look at you. He has no doubt his emotions are displayed all over his face. His heart feels heavy- is it really so bad that he wants to be yours? You made it seem so...unappealing.

"Hey." Your voice comes out cautious, gentle. "You okay?"

Jaebum breaks his silence, raising his eyes to look at you properly. "Would it really be so bad? If I wanted to be?"

Your eyes widen. "Jaebum, I-"

"Answer me. You make it seem as if dating me is such an unappealing concept. Is it really that bad?" Jaebum's voice came out weak, insecure, and he hates it. He was never really the insecure one. Everything he did, he did it with the security of hard work and perseverance to support his confidence.

But not this. How could he ever have prepared for this?

"Of course not." You answer immediately.

"Then why say it like that?" Jaebum snaps.

Oops. Maybe that was a mistake.

You frown. "What are you getting mad at me for? I was just checking up on you, and now you're being all snappy!"

"I just-" Jaebum gives up. "Never mind."

He feels like collapsing. The conversation escalated pretty quickly from him checking up on you, and he hates feeling like he's on the edge of breaking your friendship. He hates not being able to do more. Why couldn't he just man up and tell you how he felt already? How hard could it be?

Evidently, it's extremely difficult.

"No, I will not. Talk to me. You keep avoiding the topic and it's obviously bothering you." You press. "What's the problem?"

Jaebum groans in frustration. "I said don't mind it. I'm fine."

"Do you think I'm stupid, Im Jaebum? You think I'm an idiot?"

"No."

"Then talk to me!"

"No!"

"You're being ridiculous-"

"I said I'm fine!"

"Why's it so hard for you to open up-"

"Because I like you, okay?!"

Oops. That wasn't supposed to come out.

"All I want to do is care for you and take care of you because I hate seeing you suffer. Why do you think I dragged you over here to rest? Why do you think I worked so hard to take care of you all these past weeks? Why do you try to deny everything that I do for you, saying I don't need to? Okay, maybe I don't need to do anything for you, but I want to. Why can't you let me care for you the way I want to?"

Jaebum's heart is racing. He'd never felt anything as overwhelming as this before. The pain of wanting to do so much for someone who didn't want him to- what did that tell him?

You’re frozen, quiet, so Jaebum continues. "If you want me to stop, if you really don't want me to do anything for you anymore, say it here and now. I'll stop for you. Tell me you don't like me back and I'll stop it all."

"It's not that I don't like it-" you start.

"Then what?" Jaebum cuts in, voice hard. "Why-"

"Jaebum!" You snap in a tone that had the ability to zip Jaebum's mouth shut. "Let me speak!"

Jaebum backs down immediately.

You sigh. "Look. I'm sorry I ever made you feel that way. I didn't mean to make it seem like I didn't want you to take care of me. I like it when you show that you care, I really do. It's nice to have someone looking out for you, you know?"

"Then why deny it?"

"I guess I didn't want to be a burden to anyone." You shrug.

Jaebum stares at you disbelievingly. "You'd never be a burden to me."

"And I know that now." You say. "I just- ugh, I didn't want to impose. I felt like I was just an extra load to everything else you were carrying. You already do so much, and here I am, like a newborn baby, terrible at taking care of her own body and needing one of her best friends to take care of it for her."

Jaebum's face lights up. "I'm one of your best friends?" He asks with a cheeky smile on his face.

You hit him on the arm. "Yah. Is that all you got?"

"Aish. I listened, I did!" He insists. "But am I really that important to you?"

You huff and turn away, but mumble under your breath nonetheless, "Yeah."

A wide smile breaks out on Jaebum's face and he can't help but throw his arms around you in a bear hug.

"Y-yah. Wha-what is this? Don't people usually hate it when their crushes call them a best friend? Why are you so happy?" You stutter.

Jaebum lifts his head to look at you. Your face is quickly going red and there's a nervous look in your eyes. He gives you a big smile. "You calling me one of your best friends means you consider me one of the most important people in your life. Even if you don't return my feelings, it's fine. I'll take what you're ready to give me, even if it's just a friend-zone."

And you understand. Jaebum sees it in the way your features soften and the way your body relaxes against his. Suddenly gaining a shot of courage, you lean forward a little bit, smirking lightly.

"I never said I friend-zoned you." You say lowly. You’re mere inches away from his face and Jaebum can feel your breath against his lips.

It's his turn to stiffen, his turn to grow nervous. "You just did..."

You daringly bring your hands up around his neck to bury your fingers in his hair- a sensation Jaebum realizes he'd never get tired of. You smile teasingly. "That was before."

Jaebum gulps audibly. "B-before what?"

You chuckle fondly. "Is the Im Jaebum stuttering? What a historic day."

"N-no, I'm not-"

Jaebum never finishes his sentence because his lips are suddenly trapped in a lip-lock with those of the woman in his arms.

And no, sparks don't fly. They never really do, Jaebum realizes. What happens is much better.

His heart beats faster than he ever thought was possible and his head goes fuzzy. Before this, he was frozen stiff, but the second your lips start to move together, electricity courses through his veins, his entire body awake- alive.

You take over all his senses- he feels intoxicated in the best way possible. His senses are heightened and he's suddenly aware of everything that is you. Only you.

He feels you smiling as you lean back into the couch, pulling him with you. Jaebum can't help but smile himself, as he crawls over your body on the couch, the kiss never breaking.

This. This is a billion times better than the friend-zone.

#got7 #jaebum #College!AU #got7 college #college! jaebum #best friend #best friend! jaebum #best friends to lovers #romance #fluff #GOT7 fanfiction #fanfic #mark #jackson #jinyoung #youngjae #bambam #yugyeom #jaebeom #lim #college! jaebeom #best friend! jaebeom

[catalinaroleplay]

DAHLIA LYON (Shay Mitchell) is looking for her THE YALE CREW connection. Please message STEPH for more information regarding this connection. The status of this connection is currently: OPEN.

CONNECTION TYPE:

The YALE Type Crew.

CHARACTER NAME:

Up to Player.

CHARACTER AGE RANGE:

30 or 31 would be preferred age range. The highest I could go is 32.

SUGGESTED FACECLAIMS:

If you have seen The Bold Type, then you are aware of where I am going with this wanted connection. I have provided a suggestion of face-claims below. I’m all open to hearing suggestions as well! I am hoping for all of the ladies in this crew to be WOC!  Role #1: (Kat Edison inspiration): Constance Wu, Candice Patton, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Aja Naomi King, Brenda Song, Karla Souza, Kat Graham, Tessa Thompson, Gemma Chan, Deepika Padukone, Monica Raymund, Kiersey Clemons, Zoë Kravitz.  Role #2: The Sutton Brady of the friend group has been reserved/future use with an Ana de Armas face-claim. 

CHARACTER DETAILS:

Trigger Warnings: BRCA Gene, Early Dementia, IVF. 

I am a huge sucker about brotps! When I was developing Dahlia, I really wanted to use the inspiration from The Bold Type which is one of my FAVORITE shows in the entire world. I love the dynamic of Kat, Sutton & Jane in the television show, so I wanted to bring it into the roleplay. I am so willing to provide information for you all in terms/information about Dahlia’s backstory (there’s a lot) and currently isn’t a link to her biography on the main, but I will be willing to share my Google Drive about the character. It was long so big warning!

Dahlia started off her Yale Undergraduate in the Fall 2008. Her Freshman year of University was an undecided year. To give you a little bit of insight, the girl spent a couple of months (on/off) crying about her life back home in Catalina Island and how much she misses her friends + family. Overall, she is very family orientated. This was also around the time when her twin sister, Magnolia, gave birth to her son, Milo Park. So, not only was Dahlia feeling as if she was missing this important experience to her sister’s future but every part of her was doubting that she should even BE at Yale University. The truth is, she had every right to be there because the girl is smart and made it known throughout the years of her growing up and her devotion to her education. As well, while Dahlia has traveled to Crema, Italy, before to spend time with her Grandmother with Magnolia. This is the first time Dahlia has ever been away from her whole family and in a city this big. Especially considering, Catalina Island’s population has been very minimal for her entire life.

I had imagined these girls all lived in the same dorm and on the same floor. Whereas Dahlia every right caused herself to be locked up in her room, calling back home long distance and sobbing into the telephone of her father’s and sister, maybe the girls knew about Dahlia and her struggle to adjust to the atmosphere of this new life/chapter she is starting for herself. Perhaps, both of the girls (the Kat & Sutton’s of the trio) knew about Dahlia (who is the Jane of the trio), had classes with her, honestly love her presence around them, but saw that she was suffering. So one evening, they entered into her room and insisted on Dahlia coming with them. Not only was that the start of their dynamic trio, but also it was the start of Dahlia’s growth and understanding that she belongs here. Even if she missed her family and friends back home, it doesn’t mean she’s selfish for enjoying her life and new chapter because she worked hard for it.

Over the years, these girls did EVERYTHING together. Some part of me wants to HC that they have matching tattoos together. Or even went on trips with Dahlia (&Magnolia) to Crema, Italy, which Dahlia showed the girls where she worked throughout the years and as well, the fluent Italian that she knows. These girls know everything about each other. Inside and out. All of their past. All of the secrets they didn’t want to share with the entire world. They are each other’s biggest supporters through and through. It’s why they work so well together, even with all of them being complete and polar opposites in the first place. 

Yet, during age 25, that would change the girls carefree lives briefly. I did imagine all of them were still at Yale, perhaps all doing a Master program (again, their majors are up to the player!). One of the girls, which can be decided on who that will be, had a class and learned about the BRCA Gene. I provided a link for you to read over the information and the purpose for the narrative because it’s a huge part (I won’t deny I took this from TBT storyline but I loved it because it’s unlike I’ve seen before). Frightened, anxious, genuinely worried, all of them decided to get tested on a Friday afternoon, spending their entire weekend being carefree, only for Dahlia to receive a phone call on Monday morning to come by the Clinic later in the afternoon. It was then and there, where Dahlia found out she has the BRCA Gene mutation from her mother, who isn’t in the picture, Mahalia. Not only was it towards till the end of their Masters program, but it ultimately shape shifted their entire world. It was a big change for Dahlia. It made her refute back to the point of doubting herself. It would be a heavy phone call to her family back in Catalina about her mutation. It would be a kick start in Dahlia having to think about her future. In which, she decided to start to freeze her eggs after she graduated from the Masters program, immediately packing her bags and heading back home to Catalina, to start the process. 

After she started the freezing of eggs, she packed up her belongings and went on a trip all over the world because in Dahlia’s mind, this information and news shook her entire world and core. She traveled everywhere. Anywhere. As long as her could go, enjoy the world and make the memories, then she would do it. It made her plan for the worst case scenario. It made her have to realize these other outcomes about this dream future she has. It got very heavy on her. It took her a while to adjust to the reality of constant doctor appointments to make sure everything was okay. The reason why the girls came to Catalina can be for your own reason! Although, it is canon in Dahlia’s storyline that she returned back to her isle after receiving a phone call from her family about one of her father developing early signs of Dementia. Instantly, that’s what brought her home. I did imagine the girls have been kept up in her life when she was traveling. She was no stranger to friends & family for that matter. So I had an idea she messaged them about coming back to Catalina and even more startling news of her father’s illness. Perhaps, that was the reason why all of the girls moved there was to support their girl even more? Maybe even on their trips back with Dahlia - both of them fell in love with the isle that she came from and they decided to move there. I’m totally down for everything!

Right now, Dahlia will be slowly but surely starting the IVF process. She has taken the last 5 years of her life to enjoy things. Now, she’s ready to start the process of having children. I wanted to give everyone a run down on this connection because I am genuinely excited to have this type of dynamic and storyline in the group. I hope it paints an ideal picture of what I am looking for/what I have thought of. I am totally here to listen to all of your ideas and suggestions as well! I want us to all feel and cause this trio to grow forward together. 

EXTRA:

Gifsets: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Videos: 1. (The girls going to Dahlia’s appointmens with her) 2. (The girls often causing Dahlia to often get out of her confront zone) 3. (The girls getting invited to a dinner party and locking themselves in the bathroom after experimenting with some weed)

[joie-university-rp]

BENJAMIN ‘BENJI’ LEVI CLARINGTON is an EIGHTEEN year old FRESHMAN who lived in QUEBEC, CND before coming to attend Joie University. HE is majoring in DANCE WITH A FOCUS IN BALLET and is minoring in EDUCATION. Some believe he looks like TOM HOLLAND, but Benji just doesn’t see it. Benji is currently a TAKEN character.

STUDENT CENSUS RESPONSE:

What made you want to attend Joie University? “Two big reasons! First off, I really wanted to go to school in America. As much as I love Canada, I really don’t feel like the dancing programs we have there really compare to the programs that you can find in the States. Secondly, I wanted to go to the same school as my big brother Hunt. He’s, like, basically my biggest role model, so what easier way to make him proud than to go to the same school as him? (Also, I kinda just missed him being around everyday.)”

What are at least 3 positive or neutral and at least 3 negative traits that you believe you possess? ”Okay. So positively, I feel like I’m really empathetic. Like, I see and understand what others are feeling. I also think I’m fairly conscientious when it comes to most things. Learning physical forms like Krav Maga and ballet… you seriously to disciplined, and I feel like a lot of that comes from being bound to your conscience–which then rolls back into the way you treat people. My third positive trait is also neutral and kinda negative, depending on the situation: I’m a loyal dude. Like, to a fault. And while it’s nice at time, it also sometimes puts me in situations I’d rather not be. And, in the worst cases, it blows up in my face. For negative, I have one really big one: I’m short-tempered. Not always, but there are definitely times where I just… break. Hard. And it’s seemingly random and, honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if some people see it as kinda scary. I can’t really explain it… maybe I get it from my mom’s side. Another thing (one that I think is positive, honestly, although others don’t agree) is that I’m brazen. Like, I say what I mean, I wear what I feel… I’m an open book, as much as I can be, and although that’s great, it’s also just… not, y’know? My other negative trait is that I’m immature a lot of the time. I’m not denying it, but I’m also just kinda questioning why that’s negative? I mean, who wants to drink black coffee and read newspapers all day? I’m 18 and I look like I’m 15, sorry not sorry that I wanna get tipsy and dance to Rihanna in my bedroom all day.”

Which of your traits do you value most? “My loyalty. It gets me in trouble, but y’know what? That’s okay. If I feel something is worth part of me, I’ll give all of me. And I think that’s admirable.”

How can that trait benefit the University (or its student body) as a whole? “I mean, I think I kinda already explained that! Loyalty means sticking together. Because, y’know, teamwork makes the dream work–all that jazz.”

What do you hope to gain from your experience at JU? “A badass dance education, an even closer relationship with Hunt, a bunch of new friends, a soulmate, a new boyfriend, someone who’ll help me pick out clothes for a whole new wardrobe, a big break for my dream career, a pet dog once I’m able to live in Sylvester Apartments… I mean, basically I want JU to be the beginning of the rest of my life.”

What is a quote or song lyric that describes you? “'They tell us from the time we’re young, to hide the things that we don’t like about ourselves, inside ourselves. I know I’m not the only one, who spent so long attempting to be someone else. Well I’m over it. I don’t care if the world knows what my secrets are.’” ~Secrets by Mary Lambert.”

ADDITIONAL HEADCANONS:

Although identifying as wholly cis-male, Benji has never had trouble using his clothing to express himself. Sometimes, he can be found wearing a straight-forward outfit of a hoodie and a pair of jeans. Other times, he’s seen wearing a skirt and his newest pair of Converse chucks. It just depends.

Benji is actually a product of Benji and Hunter’s father having an affair. Benji’s mother actually tried to keep her pregnancy a secret, but once this all came to light, in true Clarington fashion, their father sued Ms. Adelman, using the best lawyers money could buy, and gained full custody of Benji. Ms. Adelman was allowed very strict visitation rights for the first few years of Benji’s life, but not much after that. As a result, Benji has never seen Ms. Adelman as an actual mom and the two don’t stay in touch.

However, Benji decided at a young age that he was going to practice his biological mother’s religion of Judaism. Although he is by no means a strict orthodox, there are still a number of Jewish traditions that Ben makes a point to practice–such as avoiding pork, attending services every Friday, and never being seen without his kippah. He also attended Hebrew School when he was younger and, thanks to the Claringtons being well off, he was able to pay for tutors that taught him both Hebrew and Yiddish. As far as values go, Benji’s relationship with YHWH is one of the most (if not the most) important things to him.

Unlike Hunter, since Benji was a result of infidelity and Mr. Clarington felt a little guilty about suing Benj’s mom for full custody–she was an expensive escort, and Mr. Clarington knew Benji would have a  much better life with him–he did give Benji some liberties growing up. As long as Benji did Krav Maga and kept up with his studies, he was allowed other things he wanted (expensive ballet classes, tutors to learn Hebrew and Yiddish, any video game console he wanted, etc.).

Since the age of 7, Benji has been practicing ballet and other dance styles and his main career goal is to be a dancer/gymnastics performer of Cirque du Soleil. Once he retires, he wants to buy and run a dance studio of his own.

Benji is a polyglot–he is fluent in English, Hebrew, Yiddish, and Canadian French

#taken #male #biography #clarington

[jtl-fics]

Fluent Freshman - Part 35

PREV

"Andrew, wake up." Andrew felt a hand on his shoulder and he lashed out as he always did. He found himself rocketing towards consciousness as he heard Neil's pained grunt. Panic lances through him as he realizes what he had hit instead of the intruder and he's glad they compromised when he and Neil had started to sleep in the same bed.

Andrew pulls Neil in closer to protect him even as Neil groans at the sudden jolting movement.

He needs to get-

"I already moved your secret pillow knife Andrew." The intruder says as Andrew's hand grasps at nothing. He has a second one but the intruder is now armed and Neil-

"Erik and the Hans Moretti Sword Box are the only combination of me, another guy, and blades being stabbed at me that I will accept. Now, wake up." The familiar sounding intruder says.

Andrew blinks awake.

Nicky's frowning face is staring down at him.

"I need to borrow the Maserati, or you need to drive me to Abby's house. Right now." Nicky says without a hint of the fear.

Or, at least, not fear of Andrew.

"What's wrong with Smith?" he asks holding out his hand for his pilfered knife as he rubs Neil's side where he had lashed out instinctively.

Nicky looks at him for a long moment before handing the knife back to Andrew, "There's...I just feel like something isn't right. I want to be there with him, I shouldn't have left him there." Nicky says.

Andrew didn't disagree.

FF had been relaxed and at ease, drinking the disgusting smoothie that Kevin had forced on him, and Andrew had noticed a hint of a smile on his friend's face.

Then that fuckface showed up and FF had looked worse than when Andrew had stabbed him. He still remembered the garbage that piece of shit had spewed and Andrew hated knowing things about his friend that his friend hadn't told him.

Hated that his brain could piece moments that made a horrible amount of sense now. FF staring at his car the first time before climbing in, how he had requested that Andrew focus on the road, Nicky looking at all of them exasperated "Smithy was going to walk back", and-

“See, you’re still upset over what that guy did. Why are you clinging to the last name of the guy that did this to you?” Fuckface asks from behind them, “He almost killed mom and you. He did kill our two-“

"Stop."

Andrew makes himself stop thinking about it. It wasn't something FF wanted to talk about.

"The keys are where I always put them." he says because he thinks if he gets out of bed he might go hunt fuckface for sport. The thought of seeing fuckface's well fucking face as he hits him with the Maserati is not a bad one.

"Thank you Andrew. Sorry Neil." Nicky says and Neil waves it off having mostly drifted back to sleep as Andrew had rubbed his back mindlessly.

Nicky leaves without another word. Andrew settled back into bed hand still mindlessly rubbing Neil's back. He closes his eyes. He thinks about how FF had looked at those two kids a few weeks back.

He'd looked like a good older brother.

He holds Neil tight, focuses on the feeling of his even breathing on his neck, and listens to Kevin's snoring to think about a monster consuming Daniel whole.

******

Sometimes Matt feels like he misses out on things with his friends. It didn't happen that often and he doesn't regret the Thanksgiving he spent with his Mom and Dan. Not a single atom regrets making hand turkeys with Dan or holding Dan and his Mom's bags during their Black Friday spree.

He still felt ice in his stomach when he heard that some of Nathan's men had come for Neil and that FF had gotten hurt. FF hadn't seemed overly bothered by the injury and Matt was looking forward to having the freshman as a roommate once he was fully cleared by Abby.

FF was a good kid and Matt had a hard time disliking someone who so obviously looked up to and liked his best friend. He'd told Dan about the 'Captain Neil' title and the two of them had just about died talking about how sweet they both found it.

Which is why he feels a certain kind of way when he finds out his Skype date with Dan had him miss out on a face that, based on what he heard from an incensed Aaron, was in desperate need of a punch.

"Where's Nicky?" Matt asks.

"He couldn't stop worrying about Smiths, he doesn't have Friday classes so he mentioned something about sticking with Smiths." Aaron explains over his oatmeal and Matt turns his head towards the wall they shared with Neil, Andrew, and Kevin's room as he hears the blender going. Aaron shovels the remainder of his oatmeal into his mouth, "I gotta go. I'll see you later." he says.

Matt waves his roommate off and wonders what the sudden rush was but it was hardly three minutes later that Kevin Day was bursting into their room without knocking. "Aaron, I need your-" Kevin stops gaze settling on Matt. "Where's Aaron?" he asks.

Matt looks at him, "He just left." he says. Kevin looks to the ceiling in obvious frustration, "Anything I can help with?" Matt asks while at the same time cursing himself for asking.

"Have you had breakfast?" Kevin asks immediately.

"Uh...no?" Matt says.

"Perfect. Drink this." Kevin says shoving a smoothie into Matt's hand. Matt looked at the blue-ish smoothie in his hands and then back up to Kevin. "You asked if there was anything you could help with. Tell me how that tastes." he points at the beverage and Matt recognizes the distinct smell of one of Kevin's health shakes.

"I don't want to do this." Matt says setting the smoothie to the side.

"I'm trying to improve the flavor." Kevin says, "It was brought to my attention that it isn't very...good tasting." Kevin adds sounding like the admission costs him something.

"Just now? You just figured out they taste like butt, just now?" Matt asks incredulously.

Kevin flushes, "Smiths drank it without complaint!" he exclaims.

"Yeah, 'cuz Smithster is nice! Also I think his face is just stuck like that." Matt says.

"There was no way I could have known they were gross!" Kevin argues.

"Kevin, most people TASTE the things they're giving to others." Matt points out and Kevin only grows redder.

"Are you going to help me improve the taste or not?!" Kevin demands pointing at the smoothie, "that's phase one right there." he points at the beverage.

Matt considers it, "This is to make these god awful smoothies taste better for Smithster?" he asks finally feeling like there was something he could offer his friend.

"Yes." Kevin says.

"And you can't just taste them yourself....because?" Matt asks.

"I need multiple datapoints, it can't just be me." Kevin answers immediately.

Matt rolls his eyes but he was not one to deny the scientific process, "Fine." he agrees and grabs the smoothie, "You said this was phase one of improving the flavor?" he asks.

"Yes." Kevin says.

Matt nods and brings the smoothie to his lips.

Bitter. Slimey. Why is it spicy? So Bitter. It's liquid how is it chalky?

He immediately spits it out, "Why does it taste like that?!" Matt demands immediately. "You said it was phase one?!" he hisses.

"That's the control. I needed your opinion on where I was starting." Kevin jerks his head to the side towards the entrance of Matt's dorm, "C'mon, we've got work to do." he says leaving the room without taking his godforsaken smoothie with him.

Matt looks to the ceiling like Kevin had earlier. Honestly, the world had been a darker place since Kevin had to take the required science course last year.

****** There was no singular more 'freshman' thing that FF had done, in Nicky's opinion, than the fact that the kid had early Friday classes. Nicky had gotten to Abby's place late and hadn't slept before, too caught up in a conversation with Aaron.

FF had been awake when he'd gotten to Abby's, staring blankly into the fridge and based on how cold his friend's pajamas were he couldn't help but wonder how long FF had been there. So he herded FF back to bed and FF had pressed his face into Nicky's shoulder and hadn't let go. So Nicky had crawled into bed after FF had nodded his consent.

Nicky had slept terribly.

Still, he woke up with FF's alarm. FF's gaze was about a thousand miles away but he got ready for his two early Friday classes robotically. Nicky shot a text to Aaron and Andrew to let them know that he'd stick with FF for the day to make sure that if Daniel showed up he wouldn't bother FF.

FF walked into a wall as he was texting. "Aw, bud." he says and sets him on a new course.

Andrew texted to tell him that Neil was going to talk with Wymack about not giving Daniel a chance.

He heard another thud, "Oh, Smith don't run into that." he hears Abby say worriedly.

Nicky puts his phone away.

Focus.

He gets FF through breakfast and through the walk to campus. He takes a seat next to FF in his Math class and ignores the narrowed eyes of the person who's usual seat he has obviously taken. He turns in FF's homework, pays attention, takes some notes, answers the clicker questions for FF, and guides him out and over towards his next class.

He sees Daniel being shown around campus by Jack.

He texts Aaron for back-up. The two of them manhandle FF across campus just in time for his Japanese class and Nicky and Aaron swear up and down that they are just there to look in on the class. Nicky hands the clicker off to Aaron since the future doctor's handwriting left a lot to be desired.

Eventually it was done and Nicky and Aaron had to maneuver FF through a truly STARTLING amount of people who wanted to 'have a word' with FF. Nicky remembers that kid from months back. 'The Adonis of the Foreign Language Department'

Eventually through a combination of Nicky's polite declinations, Aaron glowering, and FF walking into another wall they managed to escape the Foreign Language department of Palmetto State University.

"I think we deserve a treat." Nicky says, "Everyone who agrees raise your hand." he adds and raises his own hand before lifting FF's hand up and looking to see Aaron lift his own hand up.

"Are we sure he's okay in there?" Aaron asks waving a hand in front of FF's face as they made their way to an ice cream shop that had excellent waffle cones and was the place that sold FF's favorite triple berry milkshake.

"Yeah, this happens sometimes." Nicky says even if it had never gone on this long with FF having to reboot his system. It feels like his friend may have blue-screened but Nicky's willing to wait it out.

"If you're sure." Aaron says expression giving away how unconvinced he is but he moves along, "Did you do what we talked about last night?" he asks.

"Yeup." Nicky says popping the 'p' at the end.

"Good." Aaron says as he opens the door to the ice cream shop.

****** Andrew is walking to Abby's with Neil, Kevin, and Matt to pick up his car. Nicky had texted Andrew that he and Aaron were hanging out at Abby's trying to get FF to snap out of whatever daze he had fallen into.

"We have to let him tryout and there will be someone from the university there making sure it's all fair." Neil spits the word out with obvious disgust. "Like any of this shit is fair!" Neil kicks a pebble on the sidewalk.

Andrew keeps his thoughts to himself that if Daniel just doesn't make it to the tryouts then there's no issue. This whole mess kicked off because he stabbed FF and Andrew wanted to make it right. FF may not blame Andrew and may still reflexively tell anyone who asks that Romero did it, but Andrew can't forget the moment he looked over and saw his knife in FF's stomach and realized that the blood on his hands was his friend's.

"He might be a good addition to the team." Kevin says.

"Kevin, if you say that one more time I'm going to dump phase 3 down your throat." Matt hisses.

Kevin recoils in visible disgust and notably keeps his mouth shut. Andrew will have to get the recipe off of Matt if it's that effective at shutting Kevin up.

They make the final turn onto Abby's street and Andrew's eyes narrow as he looks at Abby's driveway where there was only one car.

"Where the fuck is my car?" he asks.

MASTERPOST FOR ALL PARTS OF FLUENT FRESHMAN AU

NEXT

#Fluent Freshman AU #AFTG #AFTG AU #FF - Pt 35 #Fluent Freshman Friday #Ya'll are getting a long one because the Matt POV took me #Jack is showing Daniel around the campus #And the two of them are both growing INCREASINGLY irritated with the other #Because it's two people who can't help but be so far up their own asses #That having to listen to someone be up THEIR own ass? TORTURE. #Jack was showing him around because the Wymack asked him to. #Wymack was hoping that Daniel would leave #Neil was his usual charming self to the board of directors #Which is to say he ripped them apart #Honestly if Andrew was there at the board meeting the last scene wouldn't have happened #Andrew and Neil would be too busy sexiling Kevin to be walking and see FF #But alas #Andrew was doing homework and eating ice cream #Also Matt and Kevin got up to Phase 13 #Because I'm a sucker for keeping up with themes #Andreil

[peaches-of-1]

The College Crush ~ Chapter 2: Week of Welcome

Black!MC x E’Dawn

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“I’ll be fine, mom.” You said for the millionth time.

No one really supported you in going to Korea not being completely fluent in the language, but you knew enough to get by. Anyways, you knew that enough would know English to help you if you needed it. There were a lot of people from all over the world going to Korea now for a number of reasons. You were going for music. You knew what you wanted to do and were going to work for it.

You wanted your own life. You wanted to make your life as unique and exciting as possible. Even though you weren’t sure about the specifics, you were willing to take the chance.

It seemed to have worked out as you sat under the stars with Hyojong. You two had hung out a lot during this first week of school and were friends. Maybe it’d be something more, but all romantic notions were probably in your head.

“Hey, (Y/N)?” He asked, looking up at the stars.

[7 Days ago]

[11:30am, Monday: INTERNATIONAL LUNCH]

You held the flyer in your hand. The International Lunch was soon, and you were starving. The only thing you had eaten was a rice cake since the Run for Rice Cakes event passed by as you walked to class this morning. It was two people in club shirts who tossed rice cakes to all freshmen they passed by if they chased the golf cart they were in for at least a minute.

Being the slightly competitive person that you were, you decided to run. It was a new spin on the tradition of giving rice cakes to new neighbors. It was nice and thoughtful, but still. It wasn’t that filling. Your stomach growled as you stepped into the cafeteria lobby.

A familiar face waved towards you. It was that guy who helped you find your classroom in the library on Friday. Kim Hyojong. He smiled brightly at you and you waved back. Some girl in a blue skirt put a hand on his shoulder and asked him something.

“Is that the girl the boys keep talking about?” Hyuna asked E’Dawn.

“Yeah. Her name is (Y/N).”

She widened her eyes, “Wow, that’s a pretty name!”

Hyojong nodded, “Sure is.”

“Hi, Hyojong-oppa!” You exclaimed brightly, making him smile. Then you bowed before you asked, “Have you eaten today?”

“No, I woke up late and missed breakfast. At least we’re about to eat soon. How about you?”

You shook your hand, “Sort of. I got a rice cake this morning and ate that, but nothing else.”

He frowned, “You need to take better care of yourself.”

“I could say the same thing about you, oppa.”

The older boy couldn’t help but nod, knowing he had been bested. The girl with black hair nudged Hyojong with her elbow.

“Oh, this is my friend Hyuna-noona, head cheerleader for our football team among other amazing things. She’s older than me, but we’re still pretty close.”

You bowed low, “Hi. Nice to meet you! You’re really pretty.”

“Aww, thank you. I’m going to see if we’re ready to go in.” She said and turned to go talk to someone else, playfully spanking Hyojong before leaving.

He looked back and his hands flew to protect his bottom from another attack, and she laughed. He smiled at her and called her a mischievous big sister.

A question formed in your head, and you asked before you could stop it, “Do you have a crush on her?”

Hyojong blinked and looked at you, “What? No. Gosh, no.” He started to laugh. “We’ve known each other for years. She’s like a big sister.”

A warmth of embarrassment spread across your cheeks, “Oh, I’m sorry.”

“Don’t worry about it.” He said.

“So, you work with new students, huh? What made you want to do that...this?”

He opened his mouth to speak when Hyuna called his name and waved him over. “I need your help getting everyone in line.”

Two of the guys commanded that people line up by grade. As you lined up in front of a girl dressed in green, a guy wearing red plaid pants bumped into you. He swept his light brown hair out of his face and apologized the same time you did. You did it in English though.

“You speak like an American. The way you say ‘Sah-ree’ like that.”

“Cuz I am.” You replied simply.

“Oh, really?” He then continued to speak in English which threw you for a loop. “I was born in New York. Moved here when I was 5. I’m Vernon, by the way.” He held out his hand to shake.

You smiled and shook his hand, “(Y/N), and that’s amazing! I just got here recently. Umm, two weeks ago? I studied Korean for a year during school so that I could come here on scholarship.”

“You must be really smart then.”

“More like extremely lucky.”

He covered his mouth as he laughed. You two listened to Hyuna and another girl tell everyone where to sit. The cafeteria was wide and decorated in reds and blues since they were the school colors. Blue tables and red chairs. Columns had red and blue tiles stuck onto their curves.

“(Y/N), you wanna sit next to me?” Vernon asked after both of you had gotten your meals and moved towards the tables together.

“Uh, sure.” You replied.

You guys were sat at one of the many tables set up in the section labeled for the International lunch. There were a lot of people who came to this university, who had taken test after test and paid so much money just to be able to go to a college where they just barely knew the language.

Vernon pulled out a chair for you, and you thanked him. He even pushed you in after you sat. He sat to your left and his plate had a cheeseburger and fries on them and a small cup filled with ketchup. You had a salad piled high with all sorts of vegetables with dumplings on the side.

The conversation with Vernon was interesting, mostly learning about each other’s lives in America and experiences in Korea. You two talked about old TV shows that played when you were kids, only stopping for a speech by the head of the New Student committee. He welcomed you in several languages trying to make everyone feel more at home.

He made sure we knew that we could always talk to someone on the committee if they had any questions about anything. They had all sorts of people on hand, so one of them was bound to know something in everyone’s native language. If not, then they’d default to English or Korean to communicate. Then he told everyone to enjoy their meals.

Hyojong couldn’t help but notice that you were speaking with another freshman in English and laughing. Even during the speech, the boy tapped your shoulder to whisper something into your ear. You nodded and replied. When he laid his head on you shoulder, you just smiled and looked at him, not moving him from his spot.

When Minho stopped speaking, everyone clapped and the New Student committee got food of their own before sitting down and mingling with the new students.

“E’Dawnieee!” A girl voice called, “I need your help over here!”

“Coming!” He had to sit with the sophomores and with the very touchy Seulgi who had called him to help her explain some things.

He kept glancing at you and saw Yuto, Kino, and Wooseok approach and introduce themselves as E’Dawn’s friends.

You were confused, “E’Dawn? I don’t know anyone by that name.”

“He helped you find your class the other day? Blonde? A few freckles? Cute and a great smile?” Yuto explained.

“Oh, Hyojong-oppa.” You looked around for him and saw a beautiful girl with black hair holding on to his arm. “Yeah, I know him. Do you want to sit with us?”

They nodded and sat down in front of you. They introduced themselves to Vernon and you three began a conversation in English. You weren’t too confident in your Korean just yet, so you did your best to follow what was being said. You tried to understand why you disliked Hyojong being held by that girl so much. Her name tag said Seulgi.

That was probably his girlfriend then. Ever since meeting him, you knew that he had to be dating some lucky person. You were glad for him having found someone he liked but kind of sad it wasn’t you. It made sense, though. They were in the same colors and you were just some American freshman. Korean’s tended to like lighter girls, anyways.

“(Y/N)? Are you still with us?” A hand touched your shoulder.

Your face darted up and met with Wooseok’s face first and then turned to the source of the voice who was calling you, Vernon.

“Uh, yeah?”

“Are you coming to the English expo tomorrow?”

Yuto added, “It’s a great chance for you to get to know other people who can talk to you in your native language.”

“You can meet others who can probably help with your Korean if you want it.” Kino said before he shoved a few dumplings of his own down his gullet.

After thinking about it, you nodded, “Yeah, that sounds great. I’ll have to show up later though. I have a class until 3 and will probably grab something to eat before showing up.”

Vernon smiled, “Good. I’ll be there too. I wanna know if there’s anyone like me there to make friends with.”

“I can always practice my English.” Wooseok said.

Your phone vibrated and you saw your next class started in 15 minutes. Picking up your things, you told the guys goodbye. They offered to walk you, but you told them to finish your food.

[11am, Tuesday: ENGLISH EXPO]

Grabbing a large cinnamon roll from the on campus cafe, you booked it to the conference room where the English Expo was. It was for all students, and it would be nice to hear your language again. Also, there was a large part of your heart that wanted to help non-native speakers get better with pronunciation. That way, they’d be more sure. Maybe you’d even learn some other languages while there too.

You were just so excited about all the possible interactions that you accidentally bit your cheek. It wasn’t too hard, but you were quite tentative about chewing for a few minutes until you finished the sweet.

There were flags of several countries where English was the main language: the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and of course, America. After getting your card swiped, you went into the room and heard a plethora of accents speaking the language you grew up with.

You felt very at home and very happy. People stared at you, but that was only because you were the newest person to enter. There was a sort of game going on. If someone spoke anything other than English that wasn’t just trying to figure out the translation, then they got a circular sticker put on them.

You grabbed a sticker sheet and went deeper into the room. Quickly, three different people of various races came up to you and started asking you questions. You seemed so obviously American, so you helped them with pronunciation while getting to learn about them.

At some point, Hyojong came in. You waved at him, and he hugged you.

“(Y/N)-ssi, how are you?” he asked in English.

“I’m doing well. Oh, I found out something interesting about you yesterday.”

“Did you now?” He scratched his scalp, “What did you learn?”

You smiled, “Your friends call you E’Dawn. I sat with them at the International lunch. They said you were your friends, but I didn’t know because you introduced yourself as Hyojong.”

“Well, yeah. I’d rather you call me by my real name.”

“Is E’Dawn only a thing your friends can call you? I thought we were friends, sort of.” You playfully pouted and teased him.

The look of embarrassment on his face was so adorable, “You are my friend! How can you say you aren’t my friend? I let you call me oppa even though we just met.” Hyojong spoke the last sentence in Korean.

You stuck a blue sticker on his face, “English, oppa~”

A familiar face entered the room and he was looking around for someone. Brown hair and tan skin dressed in the school uniform.

“Vernon, over here!” You called out.

As you waved your hands, he smiled and made his way over after grabbing a sheet of stickers. Hyojong wasn’t too happy that you were calling for a new boy after scolding him, but he was really glad that you had made a friend already.

He hugged you, and you smiled while introducing him to the others you were near. Lisa was the only one you knew since she was one of your roommates wearing a green skirt and had her orange hair tied in a bow.  Kunpimook went by BamBam and wore red pants while his friend from home was in pink with the name Jackson. The oldest was a flat-chested girl named Amber who you really liked in blue pants.

You all talked in pretty fluent English. Some of them had lived in Korea for so long that they had forgotten some of the language this Expo was based on, but it was easy to converse when their memory kicked in. You all ended up exchanging numbers and creating a group chat for speaking English and just because you all clicked so well.

[6pm, Tuesday: HOME PLUS HANGOUT]

Since there were a lot of international people, the school figured there might have been some things they couldn’t have brought from home. Even some kids who just lived in Korea but weren’t going home anytime soon who forgot something they needed. School buses and personal cards went to the event at Home Plus for students to get whatever they needed for their dorms and other living quarters. They all got a school discount for participating which helped a lot.

You hadn’t had time to get toilet paper and wanted something that worked for your bottom. You held up two which were basically the same price and had similar advertising, but one was softer than the other. Did you need softer toilet paper or something firm?

“Well, your booty is firm enough, don’t you think?” E’Dawn popped up with a smile, making you laugh.

“So, you’ve been looking at my bottom?”

He blushed and grinned, “Maybe. Anyways, the soft one is still strong and is my brand of choice. Get that one”

“Awesome! Thanks for the advice.” You put the softer toilet paper into your basket and returned the other one to the shelf.

Hyojong reached out his hand, “Do you want me to hold that for you?”

“I can manage toilet paper and a couple of snacks, but thank you.”

“I still wanna hold something for you...how about this?” He grabbed your hand and beamed through a rising blush.

Your blush was hidden by melanin, but it was there, “Yeah, I guess that’s fine, but don’t you have to y’know do your committee stuff?”

He shrugged, “I can do that while hanging out with you.”

You smiled and felt a head on your shoulder. Turning to see who it was, a new smile appeared when you saw Vernon being the dork he was.

“How’s it going?” He had his own basket full of mostly food and a couple of ribbon ties.

“Goin’ good. Why so many ribbons?”

Vernon signed and lifted up his basket, “I lose them way too easily, so I thought it best to stash up on them.”

You laughed. Hyojong greeted Vernon and began to talk as you three continued to search for other things that you might’ve needed. Hyojong was called away by someone else, and you two finally let go of each other’s hands. It wasn’t until you guys were in the medicine aisle getting some stuff “just in case” that Vernon lowered his voice to ask you a question.

“So, are you and E’Dawn dating? You guys were holding hands, so I thought--”

“Oh, no. We’re just friends.”

He smiled, “Good, cuz I like you.”

“Aw thanks, I like you too.”

“No, (Y/N), I have a crush on you.” Vernon kissed your cheek. “We should get moving. They’re calling for buses, and we haven’t checked out yet.”

He held his hand out to you, and you grabbed it. You two went to checkout with your head reeling. Like, it just didn’t really make sense just yet. He liked you? Like, like liked you. Romantically. He kissed your cheek. You were holding his hand. Like, you had just been holding E’Dawn’s hand because you were friends.

It was something you did in the states with your closer guy friends, and they never read anything in to it. You knew that some people would have, but you never thought that this would be the outcome of it. You weren’t sure how you felt just yet.

“Vernon? Um, I’m not sure if--”

“It’s ok. Take your time. I will wait for an answer and respect whatever it is.” He hugged you and you two got onto the bus.

You fell asleep, and Vernon woke you up when you were back on campus.

[11am, Wednesday: CLUB SIGN-UPS]

You had class during the Monday sign-ups, so you made sure to come to one today. The only thing was that you weren’t sure what you wanted to do. Maybe the English club? Lisa approached you with a girl with dark red hair.

“Hey, (Y/N). this is my friend Rosé. She knows English, too.”

“Hi, Rosé, nice to meet you!” You said in English too. “Have you guys decided to sign up for anything?”

Lisa spoke up, “Actually, we wanted to know if you wanted to join the dance team with us. They were actually going to send someone to recruit you because they think all black people know how to dance, but I thought it better if I did it.”

“I mean. I can’t dance, per say, I have rhythm.”

“That’s all you need. So, how about it?”

You shrugged, “Sure. Why not? I think it’d be fun, especially if I’m doing it with you guys.”

Rosé clapped, “Yay! Let’s go to their booth then! I’m excited! They say it’s sort of like training to be an idol, but a lot easier. Still, a few idols have been chosen from dance teams. Oooo, what if one of us get chosen?”

The three of you laughed, and Lisa shook her head, “I doubt that I’ll ever be good enough to be an idol. I’m struggling too much even learning Korean.”

“But you’re so pretty!” You said. “They’d be idiots not to ask you to be part of a group. Also, I heard you freestyling the other day by the cafeteria. You’ve got an amazing flow.”

“Awww, thanks. You’re too kind, (Y/N).”

The super chipper girl with her pastel hair in a low ponytail clapped when she saw you girls approaching, “So you decided to sign up after all! I’m so glad! I’m Jeon Jiwoo, and we’re always looking for ways to make out team more diverse. We usually dance at football games, but we also have a season for competition.”

She went into the whole spiel about what the dance team did, the prices, the skills you’d be learning. She said there were some things that you girls would need to buy from them like shorts and a club shirt. There were three different dance clubs, girls, boys, and co-ed.

All three of you decided to go for both the girls and co-ed groups. After writing down your emails, the girl said that you’d get an email with a video of the dances you needed to learn along with the proper music files.

“Also, if you’re serious about the co-ed team, find someone to practice your partner work with since you will be doing partner things in the co-ed team. It’s no good if you’ve got the moves but not the chemistry.”

All three of you nodded and thanked her before deciding to get something to eat together.

Vernon saw you leave and was curious. First year students could sign up for only two different clubs since the coursework would be quite rigorous and they didn’t want too much taking you away from studies. He approached the girl who was talking to a taller guy.

“Um, hi?”

“Hi, are you curious in signing up for dance team? We have a group for boys and a co-ed group if you’re interested. Taehyung here is in the co-ed with me.”

The black haired man smiled and bowed, “Call me J. Seph. All groups are limited to 20 members, so the more competition, the better!”

He bit his lip and thought about it, “Did that black girl just sign up?”

“Oh, yes, and we’re super glad. She signed up for co-ed too.” She said in a way that it was obvious she knew of his feelings for her. Why else would he have asked such a question?

“Yo, J. Seph!” Hyojong called, giving him a hug and smiling. “You guys get a lot of sign ups? Oh, hey, Vernon.”

“Hi. I guess I’ll sign up for co-ed too.”

“Awesome! Just write your name, phone number, and email here.”

Hyojong asked, “You signing up for dance team?”

“Yeah, (Y/N) was just here and signed up. I’m crazy for her, and it sounds like fun. So why not? I’ll see you around, hyung. I’ve gotta get to class.”

Vernon left and Somin approached with a box, “Here you go, E’Dawn. Yours was one of the first outfits we got. I’m so glad we decided to pre-order this year. Last time it was a mess.”

“Thanks.” E’Dawn smiled. “Do you know what themes we’re doing yet?”

Somin shook her head, “Not yet. We’ll get it sooner or later.”

[4pm, Thursday: SWING DANCING]

Leaving the International lunch today, E’Dawn called your name. He hadn’t been able to sit with you again today, but he really wanted to talk to you. You waited for him to catch up and greeted him.

“I was wondering if you were going to the Swing Dancing lessons today. I’m going with all my guy friends, so I thought it would be good to ask my girl friends. I mean, my friends who are girls. You know what I mean.”

“Yeah, I get it. And umm, sure. I don’t think I’ve met all your friends, so it’d be great for all of us to get to know each other. You could have just put it in the group chat, and I would’ve seen it.”

He pouted slightly, “I know, but I wanted to ask you in person since we’re in the same place right now. I’m glad you said yes. It’s at 4 in the conference room right there, so don’t forget.”

You didn’t, but you were almost late because you couldn’t find your Mary Jane’s among all your things since you still had not fully unpacked. They were with your extra notebooks, and you would never know why. The swing dancing would take place outside since it was such good weather.

There was a brick wall and a school journalist asked if he could take pictures of you since you actually dressed up for the lessons. Many of the other girls and guys were just and their school uniforms or casual clothing. It kind of made you feel awkward, but you were comforted by Hyojong’s smile.

“You look beautiful, (Y/N). I’m glad I decided to keep my dress pants on instead of changing to jeans.” He said as everyone circled up in pairs while the two instructors were in the center.

Vernon came in late, rushing as it seemed he had just come from something. He waved at you and paired up with a lonesome female. When you were being told the position to get into, E’Dawn didn’t say anything, but his blush was obvious.

You smiled, “Don’t be nervous, oppa. It’s just me.”

He gave you a thankful smile and relaxed a bit. You two did some simple movements just trying to get used to how each other reacted before it was time to switch and repeat with the next partner. Vernon wasn’t too far away, and you couldn’t help feel comforted when his hands weren’t clammy like the last three guys.

“How are you today?” he asked.

“Doing great. I’m so glad your hands are dry.”

He gave you a confused look and you told him not to mind it. Instead, you two started doing the simple triple-step, triple-step, rock step that was the basis for swing dance. You were sort of amazing how easy it was...until he stepped on your foot.

“You’re supposed to go right first. Ow!” You said while limping a bit. “It’s fine.”

“Walk it off. You’ll be ok.” The female instructor said.

After recovering, you had just three seconds before moving on to the next person. All through the night, it was a fun little lesson. It helped you feel more confident in your body and you felt like you had gotten closer to your two guy friends. Lisa was there too, so she suggested you guys get something to eat afterwards.

You said you had to get some work done and decided that you would eat lunch with her tomorrow instead. Then you could eat off campus if time permitted it.

[7pm, Friday: PAINT PARTY]

You had only one class today, and it was cancelled since your teacher wanted to see their son who was working at one of the events today. It was the Puppy Love event where college kids got to meet adoptable dogs and play with them. So you decided to look around campus for a bit and meet up with your friends in the campus Game Room.

“Lisa!” You called and she hugged you.

Rosé was there too, and so you two hugged as well. You asked how they were going with learning the dances so far. Lisa said she wasn’t sure if she was even that good which made your other friend gasp in shock.

“You’re such a liar!”  Rosé said, “(Y/N), she learned the dance in an hour. All of it!”

“Yeah, but what’s the use of knowing the dance moves if you can’t even do them well?”

The rosy redhead looked at Lisa completely shocked and confused, “Are you kidding me? Dance, dance right now, and you’ll have everything down perfectly.”

Lisa was shocked, “What? Right now? Fine, fine, fine. Play the music.”

She stood up, and you looked away for a moment to watch Rosé go through her phone to find the music. Suddenly you felt a pull on your upper arm and Lisa was asking you to do the dance with her too since she was kind of embarrassed to do it by herself.

Being the good friend you were, you decided to stand next to her and do the moves as best you could. People watched as you two performed and soon enough even Rosé joined along with other people who were auditioning for the girls’ dance team.

The next thing you knew, you were dressed in all white and being checked into the paint party event. You, Lisa, Vernon, Amber, BamBam, and Rosé had gone as a group and put your stuff in Vernon’s car. Lisa was in a white long-sleeved crop top with the outline of paisley print in black, white ripped shorts, and black and white sneakers. Rosé was also in a crop top that had bands going around her waist with white boots and distressed jeans.

Vernon wore a regular plain white t that had fake buttons on the shoulders, white cargo shorts, and some old white tennis shoes. Amber had on a tank top and loose basketball shorts while BamBam had a t-shirt and white sweatpants on.

As for you, you had on a plain white shirt with the definition of aegyo on the front, white shorts, and a pair of flip flops that you’d take off before the party started. Your hair was in a protective style to make washing everything out easier. Everyone had towels, and Lisa had brought a pair of goggles. You wondered if you would see Hyojong here.

Hyuna looked amazing with her black hair contrasting the white oversized tank top she wore with white tennis shoes and white fishnets to match. It was one of the requirements on the flyer.

She handed out bags filled with neon paint to everyone else part of the University’s entertainment Society.

“Here’s your bag, E’Dawn. Do you know if (Y/N) is coming?”

“I’m not sure, but I hope she does.” He was in white shorts as well, and a tank top with the school logo on it. It was the same one Hyuna was wearing, but in the correct size.

His tattoos were on display, and he had no idea how you felt about tattoos. You two hadn’t really gotten a chance to talk one on one since this was one of the busiest weeks for him. Maybe if you made the co-ed dance team, he’d get to see you more. Hopefully, he’d get a chance to talk to you tonight.

Hyuna smiled, “Don’t worry. You’re both really awesome people, and you’ve gotten along great so far. Just talk to her some more, and I’m sure everything will turn out fine.”

E’Dawn smiled, “Thanks, noona.”

“Oh, there she is now. Go give her some paint.” She shoved her friend towards you until he moved on his own.

He was kind of sad to see Vernon there with you, but you guys were friends. So far, all of you were just friends. Maybe tonight would change that, hopefully tonight would change everything. Hyojong put on a huge smile and called out your name. You looked at him and waved, moving to hug him, but remembering you weren’t in America. Instead you stopped yourself and simply greeted him.

Hyojong’s heart was in his ears. Were you just about to hug him? If so, why did you stop? Either way, it took him a good ten seconds to recover and hold out the bag to you guys.

“Since you’re here early, you guys get some paint of your own to spay each other with! It’s non-toxic. Just don’t get more than two so that we have enough for everyone who wants some.”

Everyone grabbed some paint and tested it on each other to make sure it worked. Based on the huge pink spot dripping from Lisa’s shirt, it worked. You stayed and talked with Hyojong.

With a smile on your face, you asked, “So, you’ve been involved with everything this week, huh?”

“Yep. Well, as much as possible. Since I’m part of the co-ed and boys’ dance group, it’s best for me to get my hours now instead of later in the year.”

Your eyes lit up, “You’re in the dance team? I signed up for tryouts! Not sure if I’ll get in either of them, though.”

He scoffed, “I’m sure you’ll do great. Didn’t you see the comments on the video?”

“What video?”

Hyojong took out his phone to show video of you and your friends from earlier dancing. It was on the school’s own channel. From the amount of Korean that you could read, the comments said that “black noona” could dance really well. Some said that of course you could dance, you’re black. You chuckled.

“I had no idea they put it up. I thought it was just gonna be part of the weekly montage thing I saw on the school website. Oh my gosh.” You covered your mouth and called your friends over and say it already had 1k views.

After watching, more people had arrived and the sun was taking a header as it turned to night. This was going to be a good way to start off the weekend. While Hyojong was talking to you, he asked what you were into. You told him and asked him the same. As he spoke, you couldn’t stop looking at his eyes even as he turned his head to hand out paint to others.

“I’m sorry.” You said, interrupting him, “But your eyes are beautiful. Like, I’ve never seen eyes as dark as yours, and it takes my breath away.”

Your cheeks instantly got hot as you saw his shy reaction. He looked away and scratched the back of his head, laughing nervously. That must’ve been the wrong thing to say, and you went into fixing mode.

“Oh jeez. I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to embarrass you. I just wanted to let you know that they were really nice. It came out so cheesy though.”

Hyojong smiled, “No. Don’t apologize. I’m glad you like them, and I really like the way you said it. You’re such a sweet girl, (Y/N).”

Your heart was beating quickly when you felt a hand grab yours. Turning your head, you saw Rosé, “Vernon wants you, but he’s being a huge dork. People are starting to fill in, and we don’t wanna lose you.”

“Oh, ok. I’ll talk to you later, E’Dawn. If you can mingle, come find us! We’ll be near the front.”

[2 Hours later]

The music was amazing and you had gotten drenched in several colors of paint, mostly blue at this point and time. Thirty minutes ago, it was mostly yellow. Your bottles from earlier were completely empty and tossed into a nearby trash bin. Amber had BamBam on her shoulders while they danced to the music. Someone who went by the name of Ten had Lisa on his shoulders. They had bumped into each other and started speaking Thai to each other instead of Korean, so they just had to be friends.

Vernon had offered to lift you up, but you were too shy and didn’t want to be a perfect target for repurposed water squirters. They were submerged in huge buckets of paint and aimed at innocent college kids who would soon be drenched in some random color, pink, blue, or yellow. A lot had gotten in your ear earlier, and it wasn’t much fun. The next time you saw it being pointed your direction, you hid behind Vernon.

The blacklights were turned on and the audience glowed. Your bare feet felt the earth mixed with paint and becoming mud but didn’t mind the sensation too much.

“Ok, ok, ok! Listen up!” The DJ spoke into the microphone, “Quiet. Quiet! We have a few special guests from the co-ed dance team here to have a dance battle with a couple of you who are doing tryouts! Oooooo”

“Oooooo” the crowd replied in suspense.

Five girls in paint covered outfits along with five boys who were drenched as well. The girls had their hair pulled back and only three of each paired up. It was the girl who was at the booth whose name was Jiwoo with a guy you knew as J. Seph, a girl named Momo with a dude named Key, and a cutie named Minzy whose partner was Zelo. Somin and Hyuna stood on the sides next to Hui and Hyojong.

They did a two minute dance together that captivated you. Then some of them switched out to be only the guys. E’Dawn looked really confident up there. He even did a dance number with Hyuna and Hui. Vernon was pulled away by a girl with long black hair and curled bangs.

When it was only the girls performing, the same girl came and got you, Lisa, and Rosé to come up on stage after wiping your feet and shoes. Hyojong held your hand and asked how you were doing.

“What’s this?” You whispered.

“Surprise tryouts. Only the most promising are chosen to do it during events, and with your video going viral today, we had no choice.” 

“But Vernon wasn’t--”

“He’s your friend, so we put him at the same standard as you girls. You’ve practiced the co-ed dance with him, right?”

You nodded, “Yeah, but--”

He smiled, “Then don’t worry about it.” squeezing your hand to reassure you.

In groups of three, and one group of four, the impromptu tryouts happened with someone paired up with someone who was already a member of the dance team. Lisa, Vernon, and Rosé did amazing jobs, and then it was your turn in a group of four partnerships. You were nervous since you only really knew how Vernon’s body moved when dancing, but you just had to go with the flow.

The dance was over in a blur. You barely remembered much after doing your final pose, but looking at Hyojong, you did a great job. He gave you two thumbs up and you all bowed. Vernon hadn’t been in your group, but held your hand as they had all the ones trying out bowed together.

An hour later, the party was over and everyone dispersed. Vernon couldn’t stop talking about how amazing you had been up on stage as everyone got stuff from his car and dried off before sitting.

“Like, I didn’t know you could move like that! I saw the video, but your stage presence, oh my goodness! You should be in a girl group, dance line. I’m calling it now.”

Your cheeks were on fire as you replied, “Both of them were way better than me. And you were fantastic too!”

“To be honest,” He used his towel to wipe away some dripping paint. from behind his hair. “I only signed up because I saw that you had. It’s a lot harder than I thought it’d be, but I’m glad you’re helping me a lot.”

After biting your lip, you responded, “I-it’s not a big deal.”

The girls in front of you looked at each other and said that they’d get a ride home on a bus while Vernon drove you home. Your eyes went wide.

“What?”

“Sure, ok.”

You looked at him then back at your roommie and friend, “Are you sure? Are there even buses running at this time?”

Lisa looked at her phone, “There are two more before midnight, so we’ll be fine. College kids have a discount anyways.”

Rosé agreed, “Totally. You two have fun!”

And they ran off before you could protest. What the fuck?

“Are you ok with riding home with me alone?” He asked, something seductive having crept into his voice.

You couldn’t stop the pounding in your heart, but you weren’t sure if it was because you’d be riding home alone with a really cute and flirty boy or what.

Nodding, you answered, “Um, um, yeah. It’s ok. Hehe, I have to ask Hyojong something first.” You were about to go find him which a voice called out to you.

“(Y/N), you did great up there!” It was Hyuna. “You’ll get emailed the results tomorrow before midnight!”

That was your question.

“Oh, ok, thanks! Have a nice night!”

She paused and looked at you and Vernon, raising her eyebrows, “You too.”

Why did she have to say it like that? Oh goodness. So, you got in the car and Vernon closed the door for you. He had picked you and the other girls up from your apartment earlier, so he put it into the GPS. Then you two were off and listening to music.

You didn’t know that E’Dawn had seen you get into the car and drive off, not sure if he had missed his chance with you already. He had meant to ask you to go to the stargazing event tomorrow night with him since he already know you were going. He wanted it to be a date.

He’d have to remember to text you after he helped clean up a bit. Then opportunity knocked, and it sounded like a text ringtone.

You were a bit too nervous for a simple car ride home, so you didn’t sing along at first. Vernon asked more about your home life. Did you have siblings? Favorite things and why? That sort of stuff. He told you the same things and showed you pics of his little sister who was super adorable.

When you two got into your parking garage, he told you to text him when you got to your room. You said you would and he opened your door for you. As you stepped out to meet him, he asked if you had fun tonight.

“I did. I wasn’t expecting tryouts to happen like that, but I’m glad that they did. There’s still some questions I have, but I can text Hyojong about them. You were really amazing up there, Vernon. Also thanks for driving me home.”

He grabbed your face and kissed it, “No problem. I really do like you, (Y/N), so I would do absolutely anything for you.”

“Um, thanks. Goodnight!” You quickly got into the elevator and pressed the button to take you to the right floor.

What the hell was that? Was he actually into you? You told the girls while you ate midnight ramen and they asked how you felt about it as well as telling him about wht happened earlier in the week. You didn’t hate it, but you just weren’t sure if you wanted Vernon to be more than a friend. They asked about E’Dawn, and you got a weird feeling. Not bad, but different.

“I don’t know, either.”

“Well, know! Figure it out!” Rosé said. “Do you want to date? Or do you want to focus on studying? No one can decide that except for you!”

Lisa nodded, “She’s right, you know.”

“Ok, ok. I’ll figure it out.” You said, much more on your plate than just noodles at the moment.

Were you really doing this? Were you really getting all dolled up to go stargazing with Hyojong? You didn’t try this hard yesterday when you were hanging out with Vernon, but he was also going stargazing. Wait, no. It was a group thing. You just said that you would share E’dawn’s blanket with him.

You weren’t even trying that hard. Not like you had spent an entire hour deciding if you were going to wear jeans, shorts, or a skirt and you only got it between shorts and jeans. You sighed.

So maybe you had a crush on Hyojong. You sighed and laid back on your bed.

“It hasn’t even been a whole month, and I have gotten myself into a Korean love triangle!” You said.

Vernon liked you, and you liked E’dawn, but you also sort of liked Vernon, and you also had no idea how E’dawn felt about you. You touched your lips and remembered how Vernon kissed your lips last night. He didn’t push too much and it was gentle. You shook your head and stood.

“Clothes.” The stargazing started at 8, but you could show up at any time.

Still, it was best to get there early to get the best spots and make sure there were spots still available. Even though it was an RSVP, there was no actual limit to how many people could come. You finally came up with an outfit that you were happy with. Cutout leggings, alien themed top plus suspenders, and black boots. Also a jacket if it got cold.

It was 6:33pm and Rosé wanted to do a roomie mukbang with you and Lisa for her viewers because they were surprised to see a new background in her last stream. That lead to them being curious about her new roommates. So, you set out your outfit and joined the others in the living room to eat a lot.

So, E’dawn jumped around his room in the morning when he realized that you saying yes to sharing a blanket with him was real. You actually said yes! It was a weekend, but he had some homework he wanted to finish before getting ready for tonight. However, when the time came to actually pick out his outfit, he had no idea what he wanted to wear to impress you in a casual way.

He would bring an extra jacket for you, no hoodie. Girls loved to wear guys’ hoodies. Ok, so he chose his pink hoodie with green alien outlines on it for you to wear just in case. For himself, though. He didn’t want to hide anything from you, so he picked out a mint green succulent shirt to wear with dark blue jeans and some black and white trainers.

The other guys in his apartment plus friends had signed up to go as well, so they all piled into three cars to save on gas.

It was a nice night, but the mountain was kind of chilly. There was a concession stand set up in case any of the college kids got hungry and didn’t want to have to wait for their order to get there. The two groups got there around the same time and checked in with the sponsor before finding a place to sit. Everyone sat with who they said they would in the group chat.

No alcoholic beverages were allowed, so the boys brought a lot of sodas and water in their cooler and the girls were assigned food. A bunch of boxed lunches and convenience store sandwhiches since they were told to eat before coming here. You still had a lot of feelings to work though. You wanted to ask how E’dawn felt about you, but you were way too shy and it was way too awkward at the current moment.

Vernon was sat on the blanket next to you with a friend of his named Minghao and asked if you could see the Big Dipper. Some time later, him and Minghao went to go find someplace to pee. The buddy system was required in this unfamiliar place made even more unknown by the darkness. You realized Vernon was gone for a while even after his friend returned, so you tapped E’Dawn’s hand.

“I’m going to go find Vernon and make sure he’s ok.”

“Ok. Hey, do you have feelings for him?” He asked before he could help himself.

You looked away and spoke honestly, “Maybe. I’m not sure right now. I’ll be right back.”

“I’m coming to look for you in 15 minutes.”

You two nodded to each other, and you checked near the bathrooms and called into them. No one was there except some couple in the nearby bushes who were fucking. You just ignored them and went to where the cars were parked down the hill.

“Vernon?” You called just loud enough to be heard a few cars away.

You looked at the plates to find his car and were not very happy to see what was going on the side of it. His face was smushed against the face of some other brown-haired girl completely unaware of their surprise viewer.

“Oh.” You said at a regular volume, making them jump apart. “I’m sorry. Vernon was just taking a while, so I just came to check. You’re doing fine. I’ll leave you to it.”

Tears threatened to spill, and you’d be damned if you let him see them. He ran after you and caught your wrist.

“Hey, I’m sorry.”

“You said you liked me! You kissed me last night, Vernon! It was the second time you told me that you like me.” You yelled.

He didn’t look the least bit regretful, “It was the second time, and you ran away! I wasn’t getting anything from you, (Y/N). You didn’t give me an answer about how you felt, so I moved on.”

“IT HASN’T EVEN BEEN ONE FUCKING WEEK, VERNON! Don’t I get to think about it?”

“I just don’t have time for that.” The fuck boy replied awkwardly shrugging off your feelings.

“Clearly!” You said, spitting venom. “You know what? It’s fine. Go finish making out with your plain ass Reverse Harem Protagonist! I don’t care!”

You walked away, no longer feeling the right to cry but wanting to anyways. You were just so pissed! Betrayed! How could he? No time for thinking? Forget that shit. Your mom called you before you were too far up the hill, so you talked to her a bit.

Hyojong looked nervously at his watch. It had been 13 minutes. Two more, and he’d go looking for you. Not even a second later, Vernon came back and said that he and his friend were leaving, some plain looking girl on his arm.

“Where’s (Y/N)?”

“I’m not her babysitter.”

Lisa spoke, “But you kissed her last night.”

Rosé asked, “Who’s she?”

“Monika.”

“It’s Leslie.”

“Leslie. Whatever. We’re going.”

And they were gone. E’Dawn wanted to punch his face so badly but decided to go look for you instead. He heard your voice near the bottom half of the hill sitting on a bench. You were wiping your face and pretending like you weren’t crying as you spoke on the phone.

“I’m fine, ma. It’s just the weather making me a bit stuffy. It won’t last long. I’ll call you tomorrow, ok? Love you.”

He saw you hang up and heard you curse under your voice. You looked at him and looked away before cursing again.

“I know enough English to know you’re lying. It’s not the weather is it?” Hyojong asked.

You shook your head. He knew it. Vernon must have done something to hurt you, or you would’ve been back already. He asked what the mean boy did to you, and got a small chuckle out of it. You told him what happened, and he had never wanted to punch a human so badly before.

“I liked him just enough, he strung me along just the right amount to where I feel so fucking betrayed. Not just by him, but by my heart. How could I be so stupid!”

Hyojong held your hands, “You’re not stupid! Stupid people don’t learn another language and move out of the country for college.”

“You sure?” You gave a bitter chuckle.

“And I know we just met like a week ago, but I know you’re a smart girl, (Y/N). Not just in language, but I saw your books. You’re very smart. Emotions are dumb and they blind you to obvious things, but that’s ok. You’ll bounce back because that’s what smart girls do.”

He used his hoodie sleeve to wipe your face and then gave it to you to put on since he noticed you shivering.

He looked out, “Whenever you’re ready to go back up, I’ll be ready.”

You nodded. After calming yourself down and being thankful for the darkness, you stood and said you were ready. The two of you walked back to the others in silence, using your dimmed phone lights to help find your way. They asked what happened, and you shook your head. E’dawn shook his head, letting them know that they’d be informed later.

You two sat down again and looked at the stars. His fingertips touched yours and you smiled, not thinking too much of it. E’Dawn asked why you came to Korea instead of some in state school.

“I wanted my own life, a life that’s as unique and exciting as possible.” You began. “I’m not even completely fluent in Korean, so no one really supported me. Still, I knew there’d be enough people here that knew English if I needed it. I knew what I wanted and I was gonna work for it.”

He was admiring you and your honesty. You were a genius to him, a bit of madness, but still very hard working. Dedicated. You were absolutely perfect. Why could Vernon not see that you were the stars themselves?

You continued. “A life that I defined, no one else. I wasn’t even sure about the specifics, but I was willing to take the chance.”

His hand was now completely on top of yours, “Has it worked out so far?”

Hyojong saw that you smiled in spite of the horrible past few minutes and noticed you looking at how your hands were together.

You nodded, “I think so.”

“Hey, (Y/N)?” He asked, looking up at the stars.

“Yeah.”

He kissed your hand, “I’m really glad I met you.”

A huge smile crossed your face, “Me too.”

Your phone buzzed. Lots of phones buzzed and pinged. It was your e-mail, from the dance team! It was 11:59pm. Someone liked suspense. You and your friends circled up and opened it at the same time. You guys read the list for the co-ed tearm first. Lisa was on there and Rosé was on there. Vernon was on there. Two girls who were part of last night’s surprise tryouts, Jennie and Jisoo, were on there too. They all cheered.

You weren’t on there.

E’Dawn grabbed your phone, “This can’t be right! I thought--” A grin came upon his face and handed you your phone back, “You didn’t read the whole email.”

With a confused face, you looked through the email again. There was a section for “Spotlight Dancers” Your name was on there next to Hyuna, E’dawn, Taemin, Momo, and Key. They were like the best dancers! That was just for the co-ed team.

Lisa’s name was in the “Spotlight Dancers” section for the girls’ dance team next to Momo’s and another girl’s. You were so happy! You made both teams! You asked E’Dawn what a Spotlight Dancer did and that meant you’d get more stage time and be more important during competition season.

You were so happy that you hugged him but quickly stopped once you realized what you were doing, but you were glad when he pulled you back in. Even when the ruckus of all the contenders getting their results died down, he put his arm around you as you looked up at the stars together.

Maybe Vernon didn’t work out the way you thought it would, but you were more sure about your own feelings for Hyojong. A bit more sure about his for you too, but you didn’t want to talk about it right now. Later was better for now.

#Pentagon #E'Dawn #Kim Hyojong #poc!reader #black!reader #female!reader #E'Dawn x Reader #Reader x E'Dawn #Hyojong x Reader #Reader x Hyojong #College!reader #College AU #College!AU #kpop #k-pop #food #food mention #Story: The College Crush

[bravonovel]

Playing with A Billionaire read novel online on Bravonovel

Playing with A Billionaire https://www.bravonovel.com/playing-with-a-billionaire-7874

Playing with A Billionaire novel is a Romance story about Emma Cole and Ethan Hollen.

When plain simple nerdy Emma Cole goes to Hollen Tower for an interview she quickly realizes she is out of her league. The women of Hollen Tower are gorgeous, and their shoes cost more than her entire wardrobe. But an accident, and a talent for coffee, put Emma in the position to meet the man of her dreams. There's just one problem, he's engaged. And when Emma falls for CEO Ethan Hollen she finds herself in the middle of a dangerous plot she never would have imagined. Ethan Hollen wasn't born with a silver spoon in his mouth but he climbed the ladder to riches very quickly. At just twenty four, he is one of the youngest and most powerful CEOs. With a huge mansion, several cars, successful business, and beautiful fiancée, he has it all. But when internal enemies threaten everything he's built, he must quickly act to save his company and the woman he loves.

You can read Playing with A Billionaire novel on Bravonovel Web or App.

Playing with A Billionaire novel Chapter 1

Prologue

Emma Cole, a nerd in high school and untouched all throughout her life at a community college, was abandoned by her birth parents and grew up in foster care homes all around New York. Whenever her name was mentioned, the people who knew her laughed and called her foul names, since she looked like the female version of Steve Urkel and was easy to pick on and belittle. She had no sense of style. All she wore were big dresses that hid her tiny figure underneath and glasses which didn't do her eyes any justice. She owned one bag-- a beat-up leather she received as a gift from a spelling bee contest her freshman year in high school.

Though she went to school, she had no friends, no family, and no one to teach her about becoming a lady. Emma had done everything by herself since she was one year old-- the age she was dumped by her parents into the foster system.

At age twenty three, she lived in a very small apartment by herself. She wasn't able to land a high-paying job to afford a good house, as of yet. Every time she applied to a vacant position she may have seen in a newspaper in the cafe, they would turn her down when she went to the interviews and the interviewers took one look at her. Appearance was more than her qualifications if she wanted to land a job as a receptionist or personal assistant at one of the big firms in New York City.

Emma decided to stop hoping for a better job and stuck with being a waitress at Carl's Cafe.

Her hell on earth.

Carl was the manager and owner of the cafe. A grown man, forty-five years old, who had experienced all the things he had chosen to chase in his pathetic life. He was a terrible boss and treated his employees as his personal slaves with low wages. One of his nasty habits was hitting on his female employees while on the job, but he never hit on Emma. Although she was a female, she just wasn't his type and was too unattractive to even be bothered with.

____________

It was Wednesday morning.

Emma had only just clocked-in. She placed her bag in her designated locker and began to take the orders of the customers, who were already in abundance for their morning coffee or pancakes and eggs or any breakfast meals of their choice from the menus provided.

She was about to deliver the orders to the kitchen when a pair of hands grabbed her by the arm.

"You have to work a double today. Tisha is sick. I need you to fill in." And he was gone right after his command.

Emma continued to the kitchen to drop off the customers' orders. Since Tisha was sick, she would have to take her place at the cash register and coffee machines. She was about to have another terrible day in hell but, obeying Carl's command, she worked the double shift without complaint.

On Thursday, the same thing happened-- working a double without getting anything extra for filling in. And the same thing happened on Friday.

~~

Emma was drained, but it was finally Saturday, and it was her day off. She decided to visit a library and take several books to the park for a read. It was the beginning of summer, and she needed the fresh air.

She had just stepped out of her narrow bathroom when her cheap phone, which still had raised keys and couldn't connect to WiFi, rang.

"Emma, I need you to come in right now. Be here in less than twenty minutes!"

Before she could object he had hung up. She had really hoped for some free time to herself, and apart from that, she was exhausted, but she had to comply. How would she afford her crap apartment if she was jobless?

She took her precious time getting ready and arrived an hour later than Carl demanded she be there. He was furious with her and yelled at her as soon as she clocked in.

"I told your malnourished ass to be here in less than twenty minutes!"

Indeed Emma Cole appeared very skinny due to all the over-sized clothes she wore. Without even giving him a glance, she went to the customers to take their orders.

When she was making coffee for an angry, beer belly guy at the front of the line, who was yelling at her and calling her names, she lost her temper and threw the entire cup of coffee in his face. He had called her an incapable, handicapped, low-budget paying maid, who wouldn't even get extra if she shook it at a strip club because she looked like the hobbit in Lord of the Rings.

She had never been so humiliated. Yes, she had it rough in high school but it had gotten a little better at college because everyone there seemed much more mature than the bullies at high school. Now, this grown man was yelling at her because his coffee was ten minutes late. It wasn't even her fault. She was supposed to be off today. Had he kept his mouth shut, she wouldn't have splashed the coffee all over his chubby, beard-covered face.

Carl appeared just as the man was about to throw a table back at Emma. "Hey hey hey, what's going on here?"

"That incompetent waitress of yours just threw a damn cup of hot coffee in my face, man!"

"Sir, please calm down and put the table down. I'll handle this," Carl instructed. "Emma! You're fired!"

"What, you don't even want to hear what I have to say? He embarrassed me and..."

Carl cut her off, "Get your things and get out. I can't have you throwing coffee in people's faces and still have you working here. GET OUT, EMMA!!"

Emma threw her apron to the ground, took her bag out of the locker and walked out. "I hated it here anyway," she said as she passed Carl and the impatient customers on the way out.

Prologue ends here.

Emma's POV

I buried my head on my stale pillows when I got home, hitting them with my hands from my anger as the tears came.

I've been fired, what am I going to do now?

I somehow managed to gather myself and my emotions. It was still early.

"There's still time to go to the library and then the park," I said to myself as I got off the bed.

I changed into something skimpier, still concealing my entire figure underneath. I was insecure about my body and ashamed of the scars it possessed.

I started on my heel and headed to the library then the park. I was sitting on the bench reading Counting Raindrops Through A Stained Glass Window, when an old lady with platinum blonde hair sat down beside me.

"Hello dear," she greeted, kindly.

For an old woman by herself in the park, she wore very expensive jewelry. I could tell just by looking at it.

"Hello ma'am," I greeted back with a small smile. I continued with my book as she opened a newspaper.

Twenty minutes into reading, two men in black tuxedos approached our bench. They resembled characters in Men In Black-- not a smile on their faces as they took long strides toward us.

I panicked. I was easily frightened.

The elder woman stood up and extended her arms to them. They held onto her, supporting her to help her stand on her own two feet. They left without another word. Suddenly, I noticed she had forgotten her newspaper. I took it and ran in their direction.

"Excuse me, ma'am!" I called, getting a little closer, but was cutoff by one of the bodyguards.

"Can I help you miss?" he asked firmly, with a tone that made me regret running after them.

"I'm sorry, the... lady forgot ...her newspaper." I was out of breath. Damn, I needed to exercise more.

"Why don't you keep it and educate yourself? Maybe then you'll find out who 'the lady' is, so you can address her by her name next time."

His response was rude but encouraging. I walked back to the bench and watched as the black SUV drove away with her inside. I looked at the page she was reading to the left side of the article it stated: "Personal Assistant wanted at Hollen Tower. Terms and conditions apply."

And, of course, terms and conditions meant college education, knowledge about the job's responsibilities, punctual, fluent in English, impeccable character, previous work experience, related employment history, and more. I had applied for so many jobs like this before but gotten turned down once they looked at me-- like I wasn't human. I wasn't like them.

I wasn't like them, actually. I didn't own a house or a car or have expensive clothes and shoes, or have the ability to wine and dine at restaurants, but I was a human being too!

I was a plain and simple one. I lived in a cheap apartment, wore beat-up clothes that were stained and crumpled; I ate scraps left in the kitchen at Carl's Cafe after breakfast, lunch and dinner were served. After my rent was paid I usually had money for my essential needs, like feminine products and canned foods that didn't spoil in a hurry-- since I didn't own a refrigerator.

I was at rock bottom, but I'd accepted it and learned how to be satisfied with the little I had and could afford. I found comfort in reading books. I loved reading about the poor girls who found princes and billionaires who swept them off their feet, got married and lived happily ever after like Cinderella. I kept on wishing something like that would happen to me, but they were only books; they were fiction. In this modern world princes and billionaires didn't go for poor girls like me. They dated models and designers, and women with the looks, body, and beauty who could fit into their lifestyle. Who would want someone like me?

I got on my feet and left the park before it got too dark out. I was afraid of walking the streets at night.

I arrived at my apartment three hours later. I sat on a hard, uncomfortable chair as I read through the newspaper's articles one more time. Something at the back of my mind told me that I should give it one more shot, but something else just wanted me to give up.

"Look at your life, Emma, you got fired today. You're jobless, the rent would be due at the end of the month or else out on the street you go. You don't have anyone who could take you in and care about you. You have to try to get another job,"  said one side.

"Emma, just give up. You're not going to get a job at Hollen Tower. It's too grand for your taste. They'll do what they always do, take one look at you and turn their faces. Just give up, you'll be evicted, so what? You wouldn't be the first to get evicted and live on the streets. Why not join a gang?" said the other.

I was frustrated. I looked at my life and cried myself to sleep.

I knew when the clock struck seven the next morning I would be out of this shack and on my way to Hollen Tower. I needed to try just one more time.

This time I will make bigger efforts in my appearance to land the job. I will get the job, just watch.

......

Continue to read Chapter 2 of Playing with A Billionaire on Bravonovel Web https://www.bravonovel.com/playing-with-a-billionaire-7874/chapter-2--coffee-maid--131164 Read more exciting novels on Bravonovel App https://www.bravonovel.com/download-bravonovel-app

#Playing with A Billionaire #Emma Cole #Ethan Hollen #Bravonovel #novel #Romance #story #fiction

[gretashand]

Aha I'm already in love with your insta au and I really want more do you have any headcanons? Like for the other characters as well and how they are incorporated into the au??

omg yes!! i have like two waiting to be posted and 4 more drawings im currently working on for it!

basic au hcs

everyone is basically still in university in this au 

allura is getting her masters in international and diplomatic studies and is currently fluent in over 10 languages

shiros getting a phd in applied mathematics and theoretical physics 

pidge is an undergrad double majoring in computer science and mechanical engineering 

lance is an undergrad majoring in astrophysics 

hunk is an undergrad majoring in mechanical engineering 

keith was majoring in astrophysics until he dropped out sophomore year and now works in a garage fixing bikes and cars 

lance and allura both run popular beauty/lifestyle instagrams and actually met through insta when lance shot her a message asking if she wanted to do a photoshoot with him 

they’ve been best friends ever since 

hunk and lance are childhood friends and it was hunk who introduced lance to pidge (who he met through their engineering courses bc how could he not talk to the small genius who had the gall to tell the professor they were wrong the first week of classes)

pidge and keith have been best friends ever since they met freshman year in one of their gen ed courses (turns out mutual hatred/annoyance is a great foundation for a lasting friendship)

broganes

shiro and allura 100% had a meet cute where shiro spilt his coffee all over her shoes in a campus coffee shop  

he felt rlly bad 

they were also v nice shoes 

allura promised it was fine and that he could repay her with a date this friday 

keith and pidge were actually there to witness this and they’d never seen shiro so red and nodding so fast he looked like one of pidge’s short-circuiting robots (when shiro denied this pidge sent him side by side video analysis from what she recorded on her phone earlier that day and the bot that fried itself the day before)

keith knew and was a follower of lance’s insta way before they even met or he even knew pidge was friends with him or that they had gone to the same uni and even had some freshman classes together 

pidge was 100% aware the second she met hunks loud mouthed roommate that he was the same guy she caught keith stalking on insta multiple times every week (the only reason he even has one is bc pidge convinced him to get one back in freshman yr bc there was no point of posting embarrassing/stupid pics of ur friend if said friend wasnt going to see them)

shiro never told him that his gfs best friend was the same lance either 

keith is surrounded by traitors 

everyone knows about this but lance

i have many more but i dont want this post to be too long!

| Voltron Insta AU |

#anon #asks #hc #headcanons #insta!au #instagram au #voltron #voltron legendary defender #shallura #klance

[wizzard890]

Hi Emily! Do you have any advice for moving out? I'm gay and finally moving out to the dorms for college, but it's been stressing me out bc 1) I've never been truly out of the closet before but would like to be, but also I don't know how to handle if my apartment mates are homophobic, 2) the incoming train of financial burden is horrifying and 3) my parents are literally like, you're on your own for preparation for what to bring to your dorm, and I don't know the minimum essential things to get

whoo boy. well, congrats on moving out, and don’t worry, it’s nerve wracking and exciting for everyone, all your roommates will be feeling the same way!

1) idk where you’re going to be living or what college you’re attending, but I never once had a roommate in school who gave a single fuck what kind of sex I was trying to have. it’s college, everyone is desperately trying to climb on one another while naked, most people are way too busy with their own romantic trials to pay any attention to yours. however, on the off chance that your roommates are assholes, that’s what your RA is for. RAs will help mediate bad situations, or even assist you with the process of finding new people to live with. you’ll meet them the first week you arrive, and if you’re worried, go ahead and forge a relationship with them. they love that. think of them as a mom friend with actual institutional power. 

2) I wish I had something bright to say about that. unless you’re very lucky college is a financial nightmare. I worked all through college, and it was rough, but it will help offset loan repayments later. my only advice would be to become fluent in the language of financial aid. scope out how you can take advantage of what’s offered, and don’t be caught off-guard by anything. being well-informed is always a good defense, and it helps me sleep better at night. 

3) your parents are being incredibly unhelpful. obviously you’ll need your clothes and shoes and textbooks and toiletries and whatnot, but beyond that, here’s a basic list to get you started:

a small toolbox

large tupperware containers you can slide under your bed for storage

bedclothes (two sets, so you can do your laundry)

a laundry hamper

a standing lamp, preferably one with those little bendy second lights so you can use it as a desk lamp too

a shower caddy and flip flops if you have to walk to the bathroom

a bathrobe

a towel and washcloths that you have to keep to yourself, shared dorm bathrooms are a nightmare, do not let these items out of your sight

hangers

A MICROWAVE

a hot water pot

dishes + glasses + utensils; not enough to have a party, but enough to make yourself some kraft macaroni with blues clues shapes at 1am

you don’t have to bring food, but be ready to pick some up once you’re settled; chances are you won’t have room for a fridge, so stick to the pantry stuff.

extension cords and power strips

posters/art/photos: having these around makes a huge difference when you’re settling into a cinderblock box. I had a giant black and white poster of bob dylan, a wall of photos I took in England when I was sixteen, some victorian king arthur paintings, and anti-communist cold war propaganda in the bathroom. 

(One last bit of advice unrelated to dorm rooms: I spent my freshman year of college drinking like it was the end of the world. like, no exaggeration, I barely remember most of that year. which wasn’t great, because I ended up in the hospital twice for things that weren’t drinking-related but that I might have caught or noticed sooner if I hadn’t been hungover or drunk all the time. don’t do that. don’t be me. drink in moderation, and only on fridays and saturdays. try to get into wine early so you can only afford so much, and so you aren’t taking tequila shots off of a stranger’s abdomen in an apartment row next to the railroad tracks while it blizzards outside. it’s a grey moment of embarrassing drunken epiphany, and one I don’t want you to have to have.)

So, be responsible, study hard, and remember to always buy lightbulbs for your room. good luck! you’re going to have an awesome time!

#advice is happening here #anon #replies

[queenmylovely]

The Law of Attraction i

Summary: John deacon x fem!reader. Your first week of classes with Professor Deacon.

Word Count: 2.9k

Warnings: little bit of awkwardness, cussing (probably)

A/N: This is the first part of a probably miniseries or two-parter to fill the request I got. I just am incapable of not writing some backstory I guess. Side note: this takes place in the present but John is in his late 30′s. For you, anon, don’t worry, spicy things are coming soon! I hope you all enjoy, and any feedback including likes, replies, reblogs and asks are greatly appreciated! Requests are open!

Request: idk if you write for prof!deaky but like… i’d be so down for that. 

Part ii, Part iii*, Masterlist 

(look at this picture, what the fuck)

💥💥💥

In your junior year of university, you had finally decided on your major after switching between math and physics. You had definitively chosen electrical engineering. While you had enjoyed math and physics, they were much too focused on theoretical equations than on real-world objects, which is where you found most of your interest.

The problem solving and designing aspects of electrical engineering were what had appealed to you the most. You could plug input into equations and get the correct answers in your sleep, so creating was what would challenge you in the way you wanted to be.

Since you had taken all of the math and physics prerequisites already, you were able to jump straight into the engineering classes and labs right away in the fall of your junior year. When you had registered in the spring prior, you had wanted to keep two days empty so that you could have days free for your part-time job at the admin office. This had somehow ended up in you having five classes between three different professors. Two of the professors you had only one class each with, which meant you had three classes with the same professor. Your days off from classes had landed on Mondays and Fridays, which you thought would be good bookends to your pretty heavy Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Plus, the admin job would be good for starting and/or finishing homework when it was slow.

_____

The first Monday of the semester was spent getting a quick brief on your duties as administrative assistant. It seemed like it would be pretty simple; answering phones, putting appointments into the computer’s calendar, scheduling tours, and directing people to the correct offices around campus. They also said that you were free to do homework in your down time.

That Monday was pretty busy though, which was okay since you didn’t have any homework aside from printing out the syllabus. (Which you might have used the office printer to do.)

You had some pretty frantic-looking students asking questions about how to change their classes or where to find their professor’s office. Since you were a junior and had changed your major twice, you were pretty fluent with all of the forms and were able to answer their questions easily. You went home around 5:00, which, with the hour lunch, made for an eight hour day. Since you were taking 16 engineering credits, you felt pretty good with working 16 hour weeks.

Tuesday you started with a System Modeling and Control class that was 75 minutes long, and started at 9:00. The professor seemed nice, which was good, but you were more worried about the professor you had later that day since he was the one you had three classes with. Two of which were labs of no more than 25 students. First, though, you had an Electromagnetic Theory lecture with him on Tuesday and Thursdays.

The class was at 10:30, which meant you had fifteen minutes to walk down the hall from your first class. You figured you would at least get a good seat.

Walking from room 215, you counted the numbers on either side of the hall until you reached 220. The door was cracked open with a rubber door stop and you looked through the crack to see that it was empty. There must not have been a class in there yet. You pushed the door open and walked in, seeing there were actually a couple people there on the edges. The room was lecture style, but pretty small with only four rows with 10 seats each going up from the floor. There was a lectern in the middle of three blackboards that had been wiped completely clean. You nodded at the other students as they looked up at you, but chose to sit in the middle of the front row. Since you were probably getting a later start to electrical engineering than most, you wanted to be front and center to absorb as much information as possible. And perhaps you were a bit of a teacher’s pet at times.

You pulled out the fresh, three subject, college ruled, spiral notebook you had gotten for this course and a mechanical pencil. Labeling the first page “Electromagnetic Theory,” you then flipped the page and wrote the date. You also took out the syllabus for the class and skimmed over it again while you waited for the professor and the rest of the class to get there.

Students slowly trickled in, most opting for the edges of the room and a couple joining you in the front row, but still near the sides. Once it hit 20 past, the professor walked in. He was on the taller side, a man in his late thirties from what you could tell, with brown hair that was shorter on the sides and longer and kind of curly on top. He was pretty handsome, in kind of a dorky way. He was wearing a plaid button down shirt tucked into jeans with a black belt and dad sneakers. You giggled at that last part and found your eyes drifting to his left hand to see if there was a ring there. There wasn’t. You shook your head slightly at yourself. He was your professor, and your professor with who you will be spending over five hours a week, and a crush will not make it any easier to learn, you had to remind yourself.

Just before class started, a rush of ten students came in at once, and one finally filled the spot next to yours. The two of you said hi and exchanged names (hers was Sarah), and were starting to talk about majors until you heard a loud scraping sound. The class turned their heads to the front of the room to see the professor pushing the lectern all the way against the wall. He finished and faced forward, noticing that the class had its eyes on him.

“Well, since I’ve got your attention, I might as well start,” he said with a smile and the class chuckled. “As it says in your syllabus, I am Professor Deacon, but as I know some of you know by your familiar faces, I am often referred to as ‘Deaky,’” he said, putting air quotes around the nickname, which earned another laugh.

“You can call me whichever you prefer, because I really don’t care. Alright, so obviously this is the class for Electromagnetic Theory, so if you’re in the wrong room, go ahead and leave now, we won’t judge,” he paused for a second and when no one moved, continued. “Good, we can get started.”

That first class was spent going through the syllabus mostly, and outlining the type of assignments and materials everyone would need for the course. He had a pretty dry sense of humor, and cracked jokes throughout the class, which helped to put everyone at ease. That being said, it seemed like it would be a very technical and involved class, and the assignments would require a lot of time and were process-heavy. Professor Deacon highly encouraged using his office hours for help or to answer any questions, and you made sure to highlight when they were on your syllabus.

When the class came to an end and everyone was packing up, you chatted to Sarah about it.

“Have you had Professor Deacon before?” you asked her.

“Oh, yeah, I had him for Introduction to Electric Circuits my freshman year. He’s a nice guy, and not too tough a grader. Everyone does really call him Deaky, just so you know,” she answered with a smile.

You nodded, “Good to know.”

She left for her next class and you said goodbye to each other before you walked down to the front of the class where Professor Deacon was.

He was writing something down in a little agenda and you stood waiting for him to finish when he looked up and saw you. “Hello,” he said cheerfully.

“Hi. I’m Y/N Y/L/N,” you said, extending your hand for a handshake. His hand met yours and shook it firmly, and you didn’t miss how warm it was against yours. “I just wanted to introduce myself because I’ll be in both of your labs tomorrow.”

“Oh, that’s you. I had noticed that there was a student on all three of my rosters. Did I have a really good rating on ratemyprofessor?” he joked.

You laughed lightly and responded, “I couldn’t say. I just declared as Electrical Engineering at the end of last semester, so I have some catching up to do.”

“Really? Most people would have a lot of prereqs to get through first. What was your major before?” he asked warmly.

“Well, first it was math my freshman year and then it was physics last year,” you explained a bit sheepishly.

Professor Deacon didn’t seem to think there was anything unusual about changing your major three times however, and just smiled a toothy smile and said, “Ah, that makes sense. Well, welcome to the department, and I’ll see you tomorrow then.”

“Thank you. See you tomorrow,” you smiled back before turning around and walking out the door. You were relieved that the professor you would be seeing so much of this semester was nice, although weren’t sure you would be able to bring yourself to call him Deaky.

_____

The syllabus for the labs had said to only bring a folder, pen or pencil, and to wear at least short sleeves, long pants, and closed toed shoes, all of which you had to be willing to get dirty. As you got ready in the morning, you pulled on a faded pair of jeans, a shirt you had used in the past when painting, and your old pair of tennis shoes. You grabbed a jacket to wear over your clothes as you walked through campus and headed out with just a shoulder bag instead of the backpack you normally took to class.

You drove over to campus and parked in the engineering building’s parking lot. You had bought the parking pass for that building since three of your classes were in it, but hadn’t realized that the engineering labs were in a different building on the other side of campus until the day before. You sighed as you turned your car off, knowing you had close to a twenty minute walk, but put on your headphones, turned on some good music, and started walking over.

The building was old and the cinder blocks were painted white, though you could tell from where it was peeling that it had had many coats over the years of varying colors. You had heard from someone in your Computer Science class (which was an hour after your first with Professor Deacon on Tuesdays and Thursdays) that the building used to be the main Engineering building until the university got an endowment for the new, fancy one. Looking at the building, you thought that it must have been pretty cramped since there were only three large rooms and four little ones, which had since been turned into professors’ offices and what could be called the lobby with a check-in desk and no one behind it. There were two offices for the professors whose names you didn’t recognize and they were both of the left side of the building, opposite of the labs. The last one was on the right side, in between the furthest lab and the “lobby” itself, and had a nameplate labeled “John Deacon.”

Each of the lab rooms were designated for a different type of lab. Lab A was filled with cars and engines which you assumed was for mechanical or automotive engineering, Lab B was filled with drafting materials and models which you assumed was for civil engineering, and Lab C was filled with old computers and motors, which was exactly where you were supposed to be.

There were a couple people already in the room, milling about and chatting to each other. You were glad to see Sarah and went up to her to say hi. Looking around at everyone, the two of you laughed at how you all looked more like house painters than engineering students.

“I’m not entirely sure how our clothes would get dirty, but I guess it’s better safe than sorry,” she commented to you.

“I don’t know, maybe if we accidentally blow something up or it catches on fire, the smoot won’t ruin our clothes?” you guessed and the two of you laughed.

“I for one, wasn’t planning on any explosions, but I guess I know to keep a close eye on you now, Y/N,” said a voice from behind you on your right. Sarah and you whipped around to see Professor Deacon standing right there with a smirk on his face. You felt your cheeks heat up in embarrassment and Sarah had to hide her giggles behind her hand.

“I-I’m- that was just a joke,” you stammered out.

“Hmmm, I guess we’ll see,” Professor Deacon said, walking to where there was a chalkboard at the front of the lab. Before he turned completely away, though, he shot you a wink that eased your nerves about the joke you made, but for some reason sent a shock of adrenaline (or something else) through your body at the same time.

The rest of the lab went better. Professor Deacon started with introductions of everyone since it was a smaller class and people should definitely know each other by the end of the semester. He then went over the lab and safety procedures, congratulating everyone for their proper attire. He himself was wearing these old carpenter pants that looked straight out of a 90’s catalogue and an oversized t-shirt that seemed like it was a souvenir from Bali but had grease stains all over it. And he was wearing the same sneakers as the day before. You couldn’t help but think it was kinda cute that he wore the same sneakers all the time.

He also took everyone on a little tour of the lab building, starting with Lab A and B briefly and then a more indepth look at a room only accessible through the rear of the building. It was a storage/equipment room that housed a bunch of scrap metal, lumber, spare parts, abandoned student projects, and tools. Everything in there was for free use of students of all labs to work on their projects and the projects for the department. To a bunch of engineering students, it was a treasure trove.

Finally, he took everyone back to Lab C and pointed out all of the stations and larger equipment in the big room. After the tour, he had everyone do a little exercise with some of the tools to get acquainted with them. By the time everyone had completed the exercise, the two hours and forty-five had pretty much elapsed and Professor Deacon let everyone head out a little early.

Of course, since you were in his next lab that took place in 15 minutes, you stayed. And, it seemed that you were the only one in both of these labs, so you stood around awkwardly as everyone left. You were about to grab your phone from your pocket when you heard his voice.

“So you didn’t blow anything up, I’m relieved,” he teased from behind you.

You turned around to see him smirking yet again and laughed lightly before replying, “I mean, it’s only been the first part of the first day so I wouldn’t take your eyes off me just yet.”

There was a beat when both of you realized what that sounded like and you saw Professor Deacon’s ears get pink as you felt your neck heat up. Your eyes widened and you determinedly did not make eye contact.

Trying to relieve the tension, he cleared his throat and said, “Anyway, I’m sorry, but you’re about to have the same exact lab in 15 minutes. I would say you could leave but then you wouldn’t meet everyone else, and there are a couple different things that I talk about.”

You were glad that he changed the subject, and further tried to get things back to normal, “That’s okay. I’ll have a leg up on everyone when we try out the equipment.”

The two of you laughed, and you couldn’t help noticing what a nice laugh he had, “That’s the spirit. They’ll be baffled at your ability to use the air compressor slightly better than they can.”

“Hey, I was the best and fastest in the class just now. It might not have been a competition, but you know it’s true,” you said, still smiling, but pointing an accusatory finger at him.

“You’re very passionate. I like that in a… student,” he said, matching your intense gaze. Neither of you had time to think about his hesitation before saying “student” because a group of your classmates walked in at that moment.

Looking down at his watch, he noticed that it was only five minutes before class started, and he walked away, giving you a nod, to go grab the lab rules handouts.

You watched him walk away and sighed to yourself. It seemed the crush you were trying to fend off wasn’t going anywhere, and with all this time spent with him, was only continuing to grow.

💥💥💥

Taglist: @somekindof-cheese @gwilyoubemine @deacytits @supersonicfreddie @siriuslovesmarlene @bowiequeen @acdeaky @deakysgirl @sunflower-borhap-boys @deakyfordays @queensilveryrog @happy-at-home @ceruleanrainblues @briarrose26 @bensrhapsody @painkiller80 

I just kinda created this taglist so if you would like to be taken off or added, just send me a message or ask!

Reminder that my requests are open! If you would like something in a sort of one shot format/length or blurb, etc. send it in! I’ll write for any of the Borhap or Queen boys (Freddie only platonically), Lucy, Patrick Murray, Gardner Langway and adult!Tim Murphy or possibly any of the other characters these people have played if I know enough about them!

#im real excited for the next part #ill have another request thing coming out first though #queen #john deacon #deaky #fic #fluff #queen x reader #john deacon x reader #john deacy #john deaky #deacy #deaky x reader #deacy x reader