So Much Happened This Chapter And So Much Is Going To Happen Next Chapter Oh Reader You Are So Much Better
so much happened this chapter and so much is going to happen next chapter oh reader you are so much better than me cause I would’ve leaped across that table like a frog and punch mike
I HATE THAT MAN!
It was cute seeing reader and hongjoong talk and now everything gonna go downhill probably due to miscommunication or reader getting in their own head.
AHHHHH I CAN’T
i’m excited for the next part keep up the great work! <3
Popular, Boy
☆05: The first fracture.
Pairing: Nerd!Hongjoong x Popular!Reader
Genre: +18, slow burn, angst, smut, drama, dark academic, love triangle.
wc: 10,5k
(sorry, lot of important things)
Summary: Mike's return brings back old wounds, family cruelty, and impossible expectations. Amidst it all, you find solance on Hongjoong.
But alliances form, and the game shifts... you have no idea what's coming.
Warnings: Verbal abuse, family being mean, manipulation, power dynamics, fluff, suggestive.
Series masterlist
☆04 ☆06: The first move.
The living room of the Clarke residence gleams with quiet opulence. Everything is meticulously arranged—vases of freshly cut lilies, trays of delicate hors d'oeuvres, and glasses of sparkling champagne.
Your mother flutters around, checking every last detail, while your father adjusts his tie for the third time.
You sit stiffly on the cream leather sofa, arms crossed. Your outfit—an expertly styled designer ensemble of a short skirt, matching crop top, cropped jacket, and high boots—screams confidence, but your body language betrays your discomfort.
Dann lingers near the edge of the room, notebook in hand, trying to blend in with the staff. She glances between you and your parents, who seem almost giddy with anticipation.
“He’ll be here any moment.” The elegant woman says, smoothing out imaginary wrinkles on her skirt.
The sound of a car pulling into the driveway cuts through the room. The staff lined up near the entrance, their postures straight and practiced. But you, you don't move.
The front door opens, and Mike strides in, flanked by a crisp breeze. He’s tall and impeccably dressed, his tailored suit hugging his broad shoulders perfectly. His dark hair is slicked back, and his smile is radiant.
“Mike!” Your mother exclaims, rushing to embrace him.
“Mom,” Mike says warmly, wrapping her in a hug “It’s good to be home.”
Your father steps forward, shaking Mike’s hand firmly “Welcome back, son. You’ve been missed.”
Mike turns his charm on the staff next, shaking hands and thanking them for keeping the house in order. He’s polite, almost disarmingly so, his every word and gesture oozing charisma.
Dann watches in awe. She’s heard about Mike because of Seonghwa—YN’s perfect older brother—but seeing him in person is something else entirely. He’s like a prince stepping out of a storybook, all confidence and charm.
“YN,” He says, his tone casual but pointed “You’re quiet.”
Your jaw tightens, but you force a smile “Welcome back.”
There’s no embrace, no handshake. Just those two words, cold and clipped. The air between you hums with unspoken tension, and Dann notices the flicker of amusement in Mike’s eyes.
“Thank you, little sister,” Mike says, his tone condescending despite the warm words “It’s good to see you.” His gaze flicks over your outfit, and his smile tilts “You’ve certainly… embraced your personal style. Very bold, YN.”
“Speaking of outfits,” Your mother interjects, her tone brisk, “Sweetie, I expect you to wear the dress I picked out for you tonight. This isn’t just any dinner, it’s a celebration for Mike’s return, and you need to look the part.”
You scoff, crossing your legs “I think I’m dressed just fine.”
Mike’s gaze lingers on your short skirt and boots, his smirk widening “Oh, you’re definitely making a statement. Not sure it’s the one family would approve of, though.”
You shoot him a glare “Thanks for the unsolicited advice, brother.”
The tension between you two is palpable, and Dann feels caught in the crossfire. To her, Mike seems perfect—charming, kind, and everything you aren't. But the sharpness in your voice and the smugness in Mike’s eyes tell a different story.
“Let’s not bicker,” Your father says quickly, trying to diffuse the moment “Tonight is a family celebration. Son, go get some rest before dinner. Darling, you’ll change, won’t you?”
You don't answer, your lips pressing into a thin line.
“Of course she will,” The tallest says, his tone dripping with condescension “YN always knows how to make an impression.”
As your parents and staff begin leaving the room, Mike lags behind for a moment, catching your eye.
“Still bratty, I see,” He murmurs, just loud enough for you to hear.
“Still idiot, I see.” You snap back under your breath.
Dann catches the exchange, her stomach twisting. There’s more to this ‘perfect brother’ than meets the eye, she realizes, but for now, she pushes the thought aside and trails after the staff, notebook in hand.
Something feels… off.
✮ ⋆
The grand dining room sparkles under the soft glow of crystal chandeliers. Every corner of Clarke’s mansion is dressed to perfection, as though the house itself is eager to impress Mike upon his long-awaited return.
The scent of roasted lamb and decadent desserts fills the air, mingling with the low hum of polite conversation.
You sit at the far end of the polished mahogany table, fingers tapping against your wine glass. You're dressed immaculately in a tailored navy dress that your mother picked out for the occasion. Everyone around you gushes over Mike’s accomplishments—the glowing pride of the family.
“Three years, and you’ve outdone yourself, Mike,” Your grandfather says, beaming “A master’s degree from Germany, and already planning your next move. We couldn’t be prouder.”
Mike, seated comfortably at the head of the table like a king, offers a modest shrug, though the grin on his face betrays his satisfaction.
“It’s been a long journey, but worth it. I just want to make sure I uphold the family name.” He gives you a look before he smiles.
Your jaw tightens. You know what’s coming next.
“YN.” Your aunt, Silvia, chimes in, turning to you with a saccharine smile “You’re still in school, right? How’s the business program treating you?”
Fucking business program, you hate it.
You force a smile, your heart racing “It’s… going well. Challenging, but rewarding.”
Mike chuckles, drawing all eyes back to him “Challenging? Business? Come on, YN. You’ve been in undergrad for what, three years now? I could teach you the basics in a week.”
The table erupts into polite laughter, but your cheeks burn. You know the jab isn’t just playful—it’s calculated, meant to belittle you.
“Everyone can go at their own pace and that's okay.” You say, voice sharp enough to make your mother glance at you warningly.
Mike leans back in his chair, swirling his wine “It’s not about pace, YN. It’s about discipline. Focus. Something you’ve always struggled with.”
“That's true, Mikey!” One of the younger cousins laughs “I'm just in my first year of college and it's all too easy, it's not ‘challenging’ as YN says.”
“Maybe the career is only made for men, we are the ones who dominate business in companies.” Your father's brother, William, comments by drinking his wine elegantly.
Everyone laughs at his sexist comment.
"Don't say that, honey!" His wife slaps his arm with a giggle "Your daughter studies the same thing."
"But my daughter is smart and focused." He blurts out with mockery as he gives you a look, and you save yourself the urge to roll your eyes.
"YN is also focused, she has good grades." Your mother says sweetly, defending you.
"But 'good' is not enough, you always have to strive for perfection and not settle for mediocre grades." Mike adds with a shrug.
And the whole table laughs like it's the funniest joke they've ever heard. Your mother shakes her head disapprovingly but says nothing.
Your father clears his throat, trying to shift the conversation, but the damage is done. Mike’s words hang in the air.
Your hands curl into fists under the table. You’ve had enough.
“You always know how to make someone feel bad.” You mutter, just loud enough for Mike to hear.
“What did you say?” He asks, his tone faux-innocent, leaning forward slightly.
“Enough, kids.” Your mother says with an awkward smile.
But Mike isn’t done. He leans closer, his voice low and cutting “You’re a disappointment, YN. You always have been. Pretending to study business when you’re off chasing some frivolous dream.”
You hold your breath when you hear that, that fucking idiot "You don't know anything."
“Fashion design, really? What are you going to do with that, sew costumes for kids’ plays?”
Your parents look at Mike in terror. The topic of your study preferences was always private, so that the rest of the family wouldn't gossip and intrude.
Yes, your parents knew and know about your passion for fashion, since you were a child your dream was to be a designer and create your own brand, but due to the family business they forced you to study business management, and you had to accept without being able to reproach.
Mike knew it too, and still decided to talk.
The table falls silent, and your chest tightens when everyone looks at you with surprise and mockery.
Without noticing, your eyes burn with unshed tears.
“I—excuse me.” You stammer, pushing your chair back abruptly.
Your mother calls after you, but you are already halfway to the door. Heels click against the marble floor as you grab your car keys and storm out of the house.
You don't know where you’re going until you’re halfway across town, your phone clutched in your trembling hand. The only person who crosses your mind is Hongjoong, you need Hongjoong right now.
You don't text or call him, you don't need to. You know he’ll be home.
When you reach his house, you knock on the door, heart pounding as you wait.
Hongjoong answers, his hair disheveled and his face scrunched in confusion.
“YN?”
“Can I come in?” You ask, your voice breaking.
Hongjoong watches as you step inside, the soft click of your heels on the polished floor breaking the quiet of the hallway.
Your dress gleams faintly under the light, the kind of fabric and craftsmanship that scream exclusivity. The subtle sheen of your makeup and the designer heels complete the look, making you seem almost out of place in the cozy, modest home.
His heart clenches. He doesn’t ask questions, not yet. Instead, he offers a small, reassuring smile.
“Come in, pretty.” From the dining room, the clinking of cutlery and quiet conversation filters through. Hongjoong glances toward it, hesitating “Uh… we’re having dinner. My parents are home.”
You straighten, brushing your hair away as if steeling yourself “Okay”
He nods and leads you to the dining room. His parents, mid-conversation, look up as you enter.
“Oh.. who’s this beautiful lady?”
You smile shyly at her, and Hongjoong puts his hand on your bare shoulder.
“Mom, Dad,” He says, clearing his throat “This is YN.”
His parents exchange a look, surprise flashing in their eyes. Hongjoong’s mother, a petite woman with a kind face, recovers first.
“YN, it’s nice to meet you. Would you like to join us for dinner?”
You smile politely, your usual sharpness softened “If it’s not too much trouble, thank you.”
“No trouble at all.” His father says, though his gaze lingers briefly on your dress, shoes, even your watch—items that likely cost more than their monthly mortgage.
You glide into the chair with practiced elegance, every movement drawing attention. The table is set simply—a far cry from the elaborate spreads you’re used to—but something about the simplicity feels oddly grounding.
Hongjoong pulls out the chair next to yours, sitting close but not too close. His parents exchange another glance before his mother breaks the silence.
“So, YN, how do you and Hongjoong know each other?”
Your posture stiffens slightly, and Hongjoong tenses, too. If only they knew how you met and the things that Hongjoong has done under your orders and all those humiliations, they would surely kick you out.
You both share a fleeting glance, silently agreeing to tread carefully.
“We’re in the same business program.” Hongjoong says, his voice steady.
You nod, your hands resting lightly on the table “Yes, we’ve worked on a few projects together. Joong’s very… dedicated.”
Hongjoong’s parents smile, though his father’s expression is tinged with curiosity at the way you call his son.
“That’s wonderful,” He says “It’s good to see you making connections, Hongjoong. Your school’s not an easy one to get into.”
You smile faintly, but there’s an underlying tension “It’s very competitive.” You add.
The pretty woman serves the meal—roast chicken, mashed potatoes, and a crisp salad. The aroma is inviting, but you hesitate for a moment, the simple fare so unlike the complex, perfectly plated dishes you’re accustomed to.
As you eat, Hongjoong’s father can’t help but notice the way you hold the fork, the delicate way you cut the food.
Very elegant and sophisticated.
“So, YN,” He says, his tone conversational but probing “You must be quite driven to be studying at such a prestigious school.”
You pause, your fork halting mid-air “I suppose so. It’s… a good school.”
Again, Hongjoong’s parents share a glance, clearly trying to reconcile the poised, elegant girl in front of them with their down-to-earth son.
“Did you always want to study business?” The female asks gently.
Your hand tightens on the fork, but your smile remains “It's the common choice in my family.”
You say vaguely, your voice betraying none of the resentment you feel. Hongjoong, noticing the slight tension in your posture, jumps in.
“YN’s really good at presentations.” He tries to shift the conversation “She knows how to keep everyone attentive.”
The praise makes you glance at him, your expression softening “And he’s increrible in everythig.” You add a rare note of warmth in your voice.
As the meal winds down, you find yourself surprisingly at ease. The food, while simple, is filling and comforting. The warmth of the room, the unpretentious conversation—it feels like a stark contrast to the cold, high-stakes environment you’re used to.
“You’re welcome here anytime.” Hongjoong’s mother says as they finish, her smile is genuine.
You look at her, and for the first time in a long while, you feel the ache in your chest ease just a little.
“Thank you… that means a lot.”
As Hongjoonng leads you to the living room, you sink into the sofa, the tension in your shoulders finally dissipating.
“Thank you.”
Hongjoong sits beside you, close but respectful “Anytime, pretty.”
After a quiet moment, Hongjoong decides to speak again.
“YN, you don’t have to tell me everything, but… something’s bothering you. Was it your brother? The dinner?”
Your head tilts back, staring at the ceiling as if trying to collect yourself before responding. Your thoughts race, but you don't know how to express them.
You've always been the type of person who keeps your concerns and problems to yourself, not wanting to be a nuisance to others with your stuff. But Hongjoong gives you enough peace of mind to want to tell him a thousand things.
Finally, you sigh, the weight of everything pressing down on your shoulders.
“It was just… the same thing.” You sigh again “My family acting like Mike is perfect. It’s like nothing I do is ever good enough for them. It’s always ‘Mike this, Mike that,’ and I…” You trail off, your throat tightening “I hate it.”
Hongjoong’s heart twinges with sympathy, and he shifts closer, his hand resting gently on your shoulder.
“You don’t have to prove anything to them, YN. You’re incredible the way you are. You don’t need to be him. You’re your own person.”
You smile faintly but it doesn’t reach your eyes “I don’t even know who I am sometimes,” You admit softly “I pretend to be what they want me to be, but I hate it. I hate pretending.”
He leans in slightly, his hand moving from your shoulder to gently cup your face, lifting it so you meet his gaze. His voice is tender, but firm.
“Pretty, you don’t have to pretend. You’re not alone in this, okay? You don’t have to carry this burden by yourself. I’m here for you. I promised you I'd do anything for you, remember?”
You laugh a little knowing what he means, but you know that he didn't promise to do anything just because it's you. He did it because he wanted to come out of the shadows, to be popular.
Your eyes shimmer with unspoken emotion as you watch him, lips parting slightly as if to speak but then closing again. The vulnerability in your gaze makes his heart ache, and without thinking, he leans forward, pressing a soft kiss to your lips.
The moment is warm, comforting, and safe. It’s like nothing else in the world matters right now.
Just then, in the kitchen, Hongjoong’s mother steps back into the shadows, her heart aching for you. She had heard everything—the quiet, broken words, the tenderness between the two. And in that moment, she sees beyond the image you project.
Beneath the designer clothes, the perfect façade, you’re just a girl, trying to navigate the weight of your family’s expectations.
Her heart aches with a kind of pity for you who has everything and yet, nothing at all. She quietly wipes a stray tear from her cheek, then retreats further into the kitchen, giving you the space you need.
Your voice is almost lost in the soft quiet of the room as you look at him once more, a gentle smile beginning to form.
“Thank you, Joongie.” You whisper, eyes reflecting the depth of your unspoken gratitude.
Hongjoong smiles back, his heart full “Always, pretty. Always.”
And for the first time in a long while, you feel like maybe, just maybe, you’re not as alone as you thought.
✮ ⋆
The quiet of the house wraps around you as you step inside, the weight of the night still lingering in your bones. It’s late—almost twelve PM—and the house is eerily silent. No one is waiting for you in the hallway.
The fancy dinner is long over, and you haven't bothered to text them to let them know where you were, knowing they wouldn’t care.
You take off your heels, the cool hardwood of the floor brushing against your feet, and walk slowly into the living room.
There, sitting on the couch with his back straight and arms crossed, is Mike.
“Look who finally decided to come back,” He says, his tone as sharp as a knife “Having a little fun, were we? How nice of you to finally come home.”
Your chest tightens as you stop in the doorway. You haven't seen him like this in a while—his arrogance and superiority seem to grow with every moment he’s home. His sharp gaze cuts through you like a blade, but you stand tall, trying to control the fluttering in your stomach.
“Don’t look at me like that,” He sneers, his eyes narrowing as he stands “You think you can just walk in late after disappearing for hours? You’re pathetic.”
Your heart sinks, but you keep a neutral expression “I didn’t mean to make you wait.”
“Wait?” Mike scoffs, pacing in front of you “You think I care about waiting? I care about you making a fool of yourself in front of the family. You’ve always been a brat, and you still haven’t learned. You’re not a child anymore, YN. You need to grow up.”
Every word he spits feels like venom, but you know better than to show weakness. You know what he’s doing—tearing you down, making you feel small.
This isn’t new. This is just who he is.
“I’m just trying to live my life, Mike.”
Mike pauses, his smirk widening as he leans closer “Live your life? You’ve been living in a fantasy, little one. You think you can just pretend everything’s fine? Everyone thinks you’re studying business because you'll be part of Dad's company, but you never really think about doing it. You’ve been a joke this whole time. You’re nothing like me. You’ll never be good enough.”
You take the words in, letting them sink in as you have done for so many years. It’s painful, but you know how to endure it. You know how to ignore the voice inside telling you you’re not worthless, that you’re more than what he says.
But tonight, it feels heavier.
“I don’t know why Mom and Dad think you’re this perfect little angel.” You say with mockery, looking him up and down.
He laughs bitterly “Because I am perfect. I’ve done everything right. I’m successful. I’m smart. And unlike you, I know how to get what I want. They should be proud of me. But you, YN? You’re just a spoiled child who’s going to get everything handed to her. And still, you fail. You’ll never be me.”
Your fists clench at your sides, but you don't respond. Instead, you bite your lip, trying to keep your composure. The words are harsh, but you’ve heard them all before. He’s always been the same—deceptively charming and cruel when it matters most.
“Well, I’m sorry I’m not perfect like you,” You say quietly, Hongjoong's sweet words resonate in your mind “It's just… I don't want to be like you.”
Mike looks down at you with disdain, his expression unreadable for a moment before he sighs.
“Not even in your dreams could you be like me, pathetic thing.”
You can’t help the flare of anger that rises in your chest at his words, but you suppress it quickly.
Without saying another word, you turn and walk toward the stairs.
From the shadows of the hallway, Dann, who had been listening from the hallway leading to the staff rooms, feels a tightness in her chest. She’s overheard everything, and the way Mike speaks to you… it makes her happy.
Finally someone is taming you.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
The next few days feel like a strange game of charades to you, your home transformed by the presence of your brother. It’s almost like he’s a perfect guest who’s come to stay indefinitely—charming, polite, and always acting like he’s the model son.
He plays the part well, and even the staff, including Dann, are entranced by his manners and wealth. You watch it all from the sidelines, a bitter knot tightening in your chest every time her brother flashes that smile, every time your parents look at him with eyes full of admiration.
And then there’s Dann. She continues her errands around the house, doing what you ask, but now there's an air of something different. She’s captivated by Mike’s presence, stealing glances at him whenever he’s nearby.
She doesn’t know much about him, but the way he carries himself—with that effortless confidence and charm—makes her heart skip.
One afternoon, Dann is walking through the hallway, balancing a tray of snacks for you. As she turns a corner, she almost runs straight into Mike.
“Oh, I’m so sorry!” Dann stammers, gripping the tray tightly to steady it.
Mike catches the edge of the tray, steadying it with ease “No harm done,” He says with a kind smile. His eyes flick to the contents “For me?”
Dann blinks, flustered “Uh… no, for—uh—someone else.”
“Pity,” Mike teases lightly “But still, it’s impressive. Not everyone takes the time to look after others like this. What’s your name?”
“Dann,” She manages, her cheeks heating.
“Dann,” He repeats, his tone smooth, as if committing it to memory “A beautiful name for a beautiful soul.”
Her breath catches “I-I should go. This is for—”
He raises a hand, cutting her off gently “No need to rush. Take a moment to breathe. You deserve it.”
His smile deepens, and for a moment, Dann feels like she’s the only person in the room. She mutters a shy thank-you and hurries past him, her heart pounding.
Mike watches her go, his expression unreadable. Then, as he turns back toward the study, he chuckles to himself, amused by how easily people fall for a kind word and a smile.
Later, when Dann brings you the tray, Dann’s unusually quiet, and you notice her flushed cheeks and the faint smile she tries to hide.
“What’s with you?” You ask sharply, taking the tray.
“Nothing,” Dann says quickly, shaking her head.
You narrow your eyes “Let me guess—my brother said something to you?” Dann’s face goes red, betraying her “Unbelievable,” You mutter under your breath, setting the tray down “He’s not what you think, Dann.”
Dann hesitates, confused “He’s… he’s nice.”
You let out a bitter laugh “Sure, he’s nice. Keep believing that.”
Dann doesn’t respond, her mind too wrapped up in replaying Mike’s words. To her, he was kind and genuine, a stark contrast to your sharp edges.
You, watching her, feel your frustration boil over. You know your brother’s game too well, and know exactly what he’s doing. But you also know trying to warn someone like Dann would be pointless.
For now, you let it go, biting your tongue as the tension simmers beneath the surface.
✮ ⋆
The next few days, Mike couldn’t help but notice Dann more often. She moved through the house quietly, always carrying something or running an errand.
At first, he assumed she was just part of the household staff, but something about her demeanor didn’t quite fit. She seemed too young, too out of place among the polished, uniformed employees.
One afternoon, as he lounged in the garden sipping coffee, he spotted Dann hurrying across the lawn with a pile of books. He called out to her.
“Hey, Dann!”
She froze mid-step, the books wobbling precariously in her arms. Turning slowly, she offers a hesitant smile.
“Yes, sir?”
Mike winces at the formality. “No need for that. Just Mike is fine.” He gestures to a nearby chair “Come, sit for a moment. Those books won’t run away.”
Dann hesitates, glancing back toward the house “I… I really should get these to—”
“Sit,” Mike insists gently, flashing the same disarming smile he used with everyone “I’m curious about you.”
She reluctantly obeys, setting the books down on a nearby table before perching nervously on the edge of the chair.
“So, Dann,” He begins, leaning forward slightly “I’ve noticed you’re always running around doing things. Are you part of the staff here?”
Dann’s eyes widen “No! I mean—” She fidgeted with her hands “I’m not a staff. I’m… I’m the maid’s daughter.”
“The maid’s daughter?” He echoes, raising a brow. He studies her closely, sensing there is more to the story “Then why are you always doing errands?”
Dann hesitates, clearly uncomfortable. Finally, she sighs, her shoulders slumping. She doesn't think anything will happen if she tells him, he is very kind and understanding.
“It’s because of miss YN.”
“Miss YN?” He repeats with mock.
“She… she ordered me to work for her,” Dann admits, her voice dropping to a whisper. “At a party I accidentally spilled my drink on her dress...”
Mike tilts his head, his smile fading slightly “She ordered you to work for her? What dress?”
“It's a pretty expensive one… I heard her mention something like Chanel.” She explains quickly “She told me to choose between paying for the cost of the dress with money or with small tasks. I don't have the money to pay for the dress, so I’ve been helping her out with errands.”
Mike leans back in his chair, processing this information. A slow smile spread across his face, though there was a flicker of something darker in his eyes.
“So, let me get this straight. YN, my little sister, is making you work off the cost of a dress?” Dann nods, glancing down at her hands. Mike lets out a soft laugh, shaking his head “How long have you worked for her?”
“Maybe, a month ago.”
“Well, Dann, you’ve given me a lot to think about.” Before she can respond, he stands, brushing invisible lint from his pants “Better get back to your books. Wouldn’t want YN to get upset.”
Dann nods quickly, standing to retrieve the books. As she hurries away, Mike watches her go, his expression unreadable.
“Interesting,” He murmurs to himself, a sly grin tugging at the corner of his mouth.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
The grand dining room gleamed with elegance, the long table lined with intricate floral arrangements and flickering candlelight. You sit at one end, your mother to your left, and Mike across from you. Your father presides at the head of the table, quietly savoring his wine.
In the shadows of the kitchen doorway, part of the chef’s staff, is there observing the scene as the family begin their meal.
“Sweetie, When will Hongjoong come? It's been more than a week since I saw him.” She smiles kindly while sipping from her cup “Such a lovely boy.”
You smile at the mention of the guy who has been occupying your thoughts lately.
"Tomorrow we have to do an essay for business management class, so he is coming."
Your mom claps her hands with enthusiasm "Amazing! I would love to say hello."
You laugh a little at her sigh, it seems that she likes it more than you would like to admit.
Mike raises an eyebrow in confusion, who the fuck are they talking about?
“Who’s Hongjoong?”
“YN’s close friend. He’s been here many times.” Your mom responds right away “He’s polite, respectful, and always so helpful. And he’s clever, too. I remember when they were working on that literature project. He explained everything to me when I asked.”
Mike smiles mockingly, doing a project together? You, working with someone... It's silly, to Mike this sounds like you taking advantage of a nerd. But his mother is a ray of light, she has no idea.
“I'm sure it's your personal nerd, doing your homework and that, right?”
And he's all right, but that was before everything you went through together during this time.
“Of course not.”
Mike leans back, grinning “No? So why does he always do work with you? Don't you have more friends who want to do projects with you?”
Your mother gets a little upset hearing that “That’s enough, Mike. Hongjoong is a good influence on YN. You could stand to meet him before passing judgment.”
“Oh, I’m sure he’s delightful. Just the kind of guy to fit right in at the nerd club.”
“Son, that’s enough. You haven’t even met the boy. Give him a chance before making assumptions.” This time your father says.
“Whatever. But I’m curious… What is his last name? Is his family part of a company or why are you defending him so much?" He asks with mockery.
You glare at him, your jaw clenches “That doesn't matter Mike, don't meddle in my business.”
“Mike, that's enough. I'm not going to allow you to talk like that about a boy as cute as Hongjoong." For the first time your mother speaks seriously to him.
“Sure…”
“Let's change the subject. Mike, you have to prepare your speech when you take your position at the company. The party will take place next week.” Then he looks at you, "You can invite Hongjoong and your other friends, my dear."
You nod while your mother applauds happily again, but Mike only rolls his eyes.
“Instead of focusing on your ‘friends’, you should catch up with college.”
“Mike.” Your father warns him.
“Also, what about that girl running up and down like her personal servant?” He asks with false curiosity.
Your father clears his throat, his gaze landing on Mike “Dann working for YN was agreed upon by us. She’s working for her to settle her debt. There’s nothing more to discuss.”
“Agreed upon by you, maybe,” Your mother interjects, her voice softer but laced with unease. She doesn’t look up, carefully slicing her steak as if her plate demands all her attention “I still think it’s a bit... unorthodox, forcing a young girl into such an arrangement. Just an apology and letting it go would’ve been more appropriate.”
Your father frowns “And what about the consequences of such acts, my love? This way, everyone benefits. Dann gets experience, YN gets help, and the debt is paid.”
Mike’s smirk widens as he watches the exchange, clearly enjoying the tension.
“Experience, huh? Interesting choice of words for running errands and taking verbal beatings.”
“Mike, don’t say that!” Your mother snaps, finally looking up “The staff could misunderstand it.” She murmurs with panic.
“What?” He holds up his hands, feigning innocence “I’m just saying, let’s not sugarcoat it. We all know YN isn’t exactly... sweet.”
You grip your fork tightly, the metal digging into your palm “Just shut your mouth and eat, Mike. Nobody asked for your opinion.”
“YN,” Your father warns, his tone sharp.
Mike chuckles, ignoring him “See, little Dann must be so scared of her.”
Your mother sighs heavily, setting down her knife and fork “Enough of this. We’re not discussing Dann or her situation any further. It’s settled.”
But the older son isn’t done. He leans forward, resting his elbows on the table, his gaze locking with yours.
“You should be careful, YN. People like Dann have limits. Push her too far, and she might push back. Harder than you expect.”
The words hang in the air, and for a moment, the table falls silent. Your father glares at Mike, but he doesn’t say anything. Your mother busies herself with her glass of wine, avoiding your gaze.
You stand abruptly, your chair scraping against the floor “If we’re done with this delightful family bonding session, I’ll be going now.”
As you leave the dining room, your mother’s voice follows you, tired and resigned “Sweetie, wait—”
But you don’t stop. Mike’s words echo in your mind, and for the first time, you wonder if there’s truth in them.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
“Hongjoong!”
Your mother’s enthusiastic voice fills the grand hallway as the front door swings open to reveal Homgjoong, standing there with his usual boyish grin.
“Good afternoon, Mrs. Clarke!” He says, matching her energy. His warm tone makes her giggle in delight.
“She’s upstairs,” Your mother replies, stepping aside to let him in “She mentioned something about working on an essay. You two have been quite busy with school, haven’t you?”
He nods, the picture of politeness “Yes, ma’am. Lots of group projects lately.”
From the top of the grand staircase, Mike’s deep voice cuts through the air like a blade.
“Is this him?” His gaze analyze Hongjoong up and down. His outfit was very different from what Mike expected from a nerd.
Of course the glasses scream ‘nerd’ in all the letters, but the denim jacket over a gray turtleneck shirt with an abstract print, black cargo pants, a gray beanie on his head, and a black crossbody bag complete the look…
Mike didn't know that nerds had evolved during these three years, that now they can mix with others and you wouldn't know they’re a freak..
Hongjoong’s gaze snaps upward, and your brother appears, descending the staircase with a calm but predatory aura. His tailored suit and sharp features radiate authority, the kind that seems designed to make people feel small.
“Yes, this is Hongjoong,” Your mother chimes in, her cheerful tone unwavering.
Hongjoong extends a hand, smiling “Nice to meet you.”
Mike eyes the hand for a moment before taking it. His grip is firm—calculated, even.
“So, you’re the charity case,” He says smoothly, his words laced with a thinly veiled insult.
Hongjoong’s smile falters slightly, but he quickly recovers “I guess you could say I’m lucky to have YN as a friend.”
Mike raises an eyebrow, his lips curving into a smirk “Friend?”
The tension is palpable, but before it can escalate, your mother interjects “Mike, be nice. Hongjoong is here to help your sister with schoolwork. Don’t scare him off.”
“Wouldn’t dream of it,” Mike replies, though the gleam in his eyes suggests otherwise.
Just then, you appear at the top of the staircase, dressed casually but impeccably as always.
“Joong,” You call, your voice warm, though your eyes flick to Mike in a silent warning.
Hongjoong visibly relaxes at the sight of you “Hey, YN.”
You make your way down, shooting a quick glare at your brother before slipping your arm through Hongjoong’s.
“We’ll be in the study room.” You say pointedly, guiding him away.
Mike watches the two of you go, a bemused expression on his face.
✮ ⋆
The study is bathed in the soft afternoon light streaming through the large windows. Papers and books are spread across the table, though most of it remains untouched.
Hongjoong sits comfortably in the large red sofa, pen twirling absentmindedly between his fingers as he watches you pace the room, clearly distracted.
“Are we actually going to work on this essay,” He teases lightly, “Or are you going to wear a hole in the floor?”
You pause mid-step, shooting him a mock glare “Excuse me for needing to think while I walk.”
Hongjoong chuckles, setting his pen down “Thinking about the essay, or something else?”
You sigh and drop into the seat opposite him “Both, maybe.”
For a moment, there’s silence as you both glance at the notes in front of you. Hongjoong flips through the pages absentmindedly before he leans back and studies you.
“You know,” He starts “This is kind of funny.”
“Uh?”
He smirks “The fact that we’re doing an essay on entrepreneurship, and I remember you telling my parents you’re studying business just because it’s a common choice in your family.”
You blink, caught off guard “You remember that?”
“Of course I do,” He says, his tone softening “It was hard to miss how uncomfortable you looked when they asked about it.”
“I wasn’t uncomfortable.” You lie, crossing your arms.
Hongjoong tilts his head, giving you a knowing look “Pretty…”
You sigh, dropping the act “Fine. I was uncomfortable. Happy?”
He leans forward, resting his elbows on the table “Not really. I mean, it’s not every day you see Miss pretty YN Clarke—queen bee of the school—looking out of her element. What was that about, anyway?”
You hesitate, your gaze dropping to the notebook in front of you. After a long pause, you speak, your voice quieter than usual.
“I didn’t choose to study business. My parents chose for me.”
He blinks, taken aback “Seriously? But I thought you—”
“Thought I was passionate about business?” You interrupt with a bitter laugh “No. I wanted to study fashion design.”
“Fashion design?” Hongjoong’s eyebrows shot up, his curiosity piqued “You? The future CEO of Clarke Enterprises wanted to design clothes?”
And he can see your potential. You have impeccable taste in fashion, not just in the way you always dress, but also in how you can identify others' styles just by looking at them. And he’s a witness to it—whenever he went shopping with you, you always picked things that matched the style he chose after his research on the subject. Your sense of fashion was enviable.
“Laugh it up,” You mutter, though there’s no heat in your tone.
“I’m not laughing,” Hongjoong assures you. “I’m just surprised. You’ve never mentioned this before.”
“Why would I?” You snap, but your irritation isn’t directed at him “It’s not like it matters. My parents made it clear that ‘passion projects’ don’t pay the bills. Clarke family members study business. That’s just how it is.”
Hongjoong frowns, the playful glint in his eyes replaced by concern. “That doesn’t sound fair.”
You shrug, forcing a nonchalant tone. “Life isn’t fair, Joong. Besides, it’s not like I had a choice. My father practically enrolled me himself. My mother didn’t say much, but she didn’t exactly fight for me, either.”
He watches you carefully, his brows furrowed “Do you... regret it?”
“Every day,” You admit quietly “But regret doesn’t change anything. My life’s been mapped out for me since the day I was born. I just… deal with it.”
The silence that follows feels heavy, and for a moment, neither of you knows what to say. Finally, Hongjoong breaks it.
“YN… you don’t have to be what they want you to be.”
You scoff, though his sincerity tugs at something deep inside you “You don’t get it, my family isn’t like yours. I can’t just decide to go against them and do what I want. It’s not that simple.”
Hongjoong leans forward, his voice steady and kind “Maybe it’s not simple. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.”
You look at him, surprised by the determination in his eyes “Why do you care so much, anyway?”
“Because I hate seeing you like this,” He admits “You’re always so confident, so in control. But when you talk about this, it’s like… you’re not yourself.”
You swallow hard, his words hitting closer to home than you’d like to admit.
“I’m just saying,” He continues, his tone gentler now “if you ever want to talk about it, or, you know, vent or anything, I’m here.”
A small, genuine smile tugs at the corner of your lips.
“Thanks, Joongie.”
“Anytime,” He says with a grin. Then, with a playful tone, he adds “Now, can we actually write this essay? Because I’m not about to fail this class just because my partner has a secret dream of designing couture.”
You roll your eyes, but for the first time that day, you feel a little lighter “Fine. Let’s get to work.”
As the two of you finally turn your attention to the assignment, you can’t help but glance at Hongjoong. For all his flaws, he has a way of making you feel like, just maybe, you don’t have to be alone in this.
And that makes you feel happy and secure.
A couple of minutes later—ten minutes to be exact— starting the draft of your essays, you and Hongjoong are supposedly working, but your proximity makes it clear that focus is not the priority. Papers and pens are scattered across the desk, completely forgotten.
You start talking about other stuff until you settle yourself on his lap, and his hands resting on your thighs as he gazes up at you, clearly captivated.
“You really shouldn’t let him get to you.” Hongjoong says softly, his voice tinged with concern.
Once again the topic of your annoying brother.
You smirk, trailing a finger along his jawline “Mike gets to everyone. It’s his specialty.”
Hongjoong’s hand tightens slightly on your leg “Well, not to me.”
You lean closer, your faces mere inches apart “Good.” You whisper before kissing him.
The moment is charged, but neither of you notices the shadow just outside the door.
Dann stands there, hidden in the hallway, her heart sinking as she watches the scene unfold. Your laughter, Hongjoong’s rapt attention—every detail feels like a dagger to her chest.
Her grip on the doorframe tightens as she fights back tears, her mind racing with anger and jealousy.
As you pull back slightly, your fingers lingering on Hongjoong’s jawline, he gazes up at you with a rare softness. The silence stretches between you, not awkward but charged with unspoken words.
“Pretty,” He begins, his voice a little hoarse as if gathering courage.
You tilt your head, teasingly brushing a strand of his hair back “What is it, nerd?”
Hongjoong chuckles softly, but the sound is nervous. He looks away for a moment, his thumb absently tracing small circles on your thigh.
“I was thinking... Maybe we could go out this weekend. Like, just us. A real date.”
Your breath hitches, though you manage to keep your expression neutral. A date. The word sets off a flutter in your chest that you quickly smother. You can’t let yourself feel this way—not for him.
He’s sweet, in a way that disarms you. And yes, there’s something undeniably magnetic about the way he looks at you, like you’re the only thing in the world that matters.
But there’s also a voice in the back of your mind, sharp and cynical, whispering warnings.
What if he’s just like everyone else? What if he’s only here because being with you makes him feel important?
You’ve seen it before—the fake smiles, the shallow affections of people who only want something from you. It’s always been easier to keep your guard up, to let the world think you’re untouchable.
Still, as you look at him now, with his nervous grin and earnest eyes, a part of you wonders if Hongjoong is different.
“A date, huh?” You echo, a playful smirk tugging at your lips “Are you asking me out, Joongie?”
His grip on your leg tightens ever so slightly as he nods “Yeah, I guess I am.”
You tilt your head, studying him, trying to find some crack in his sincerity. But there’s none. He’s genuine—almost painfully so.
“Alright, you’ve got yourself a date.” Your tone is flippant, casual, as if it doesn’t matter. But the faint blush creeping up your cheeks betrays you.
Outside the door, Dann halts mid-step. She had intended to leave, to distance herself from the painful scene, but Hongjoong’s words froze her in place.
A date.
Her breathing stops, and her mind reels, repeating every look, every silly smile he used to give you every time you passed by his friends' table, even before he sat down with your ridiculous social group, and she can't deny how much Hongjoong likes you, even now.
Dann had told herself that he didn’t really mean it, that he was just infatuated, that you didn’t deserve him. But hearing him now, so sincere, so devoted—it feels like a knife twisting deeper into her chest.
She takes a shaky step back, her vision blurring with tears. Her mind is a storm of anger, heartbreak, and self-loathing.
Why her? Why not me?
Dann quietly slips away, her steps quick and silent. But her expression hardens with every step she takes. If there was any doubt before, it’s gone now—she won’t let you keep humiliating her.
Dann rushes down the hallway, her chest tight and her mind swirling with emotion. She doesn’t even notice Mike leaning against the wall near the corner, arms crossed, a knowing smirk playing on his lips.
“Well, well,” He drawls, his smooth voice stopping her in her tracks “What’s got you running off in tears, Cinderella?”
Dann stiffens, quickly wiping at her eyes and turning to face him “Nothing. It’s nothing.”
Mike raises an eyebrow, his sharp gaze flicking to the study door she just fled from. His curiosity piqued, he steps past her without another word.
Dann doesn’t try to stop him, her head hanging as shame and frustration bubble within her.
Quietly, Mike approaches the slightly ajar study door. His keen eyes take in the scene inside:
YN, sitting on the nerd's lap, whose hands rest possessively on her thighs as they kiss.
Your closeness, the intimate way your fingers trail along Hongjoong’s hair, makes Mike’s smirk widen.
He glances back at Dann, who’s standing frozen in the hallway, her shoulders tense. His mind pieces the puzzle together.
Dann’s crushed expression, your little display with the nerd in his designer clothes, that obviously, Mike knows that you bought for him, and the underlying tension he’s noticed between the two girls.
A cruel but amused thought settles in his mind. Of course, you're using that poor guy to hurt Dann. Classic YN. It’s vicious, but… beautifully done.
Pushing the door slightly closed so you and Hongjoong remain unaware, Mike strides back to Dann. He tilts his head, studying her, his tone feigning concern.
“Looks like my sister is having quite the fun time in there, doesn’t it?” He says casually.
Dann’s head snaps up, her wide eyes filled with panic. “You—you saw?”
Mike shrugs, his smirk softening into something almost comforting.
“It’s hard to miss, really. She does know how to put on a show.” He pauses, letting his words sink in before stepping closer “You like him, don’t you?”
Dann’s face burns, and she quickly shakes her head “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“Come on, Dann. Don’t insult me by lying,” He says smoothly, his voice low and persuasive. “You like that nerd, it’s written all over your face. You’re smitten, and YN? Well, she knows it. And judging by what I just saw, she’s enjoying rubbing it in.”
Dann’s lips tremble, but she says nothing. The truth in his words stings too much to deny.
Mike’s expression shifts, his voice softening. “It’s cruel, isn’t it? After everything you’ve done for her, she still treats you like this. Like a pawn in her little games.”
Dann bites her lip, her anger and hurt bubbling to the surface “Why are you telling me this? What do you want?”
He chuckles, shaking his head. “What I want is irrelevant. What you want, though… That’s what matters, doesn’t it?” He steps even closer, his tone conspiratorial “You want to stop her, don’t you? Make her see what it’s like to be humiliated, to lose everything she holds dear.”
Dann looks at him, her eyes narrowing “Why would you care? She’s your sister.”
Mike smirks again, his gaze hard. “Oh, I care, Dann. But not in the way you think. YN’s gotten away with far too much for far too long. It’s time she learns that actions have consequences. And I think you and I? We can make that happen.”
Dann hesitates, her emotions warring within her. Mike leans in slightly, his voice dropping to a near whisper.
“Think about it, Dann. Do you really want to keep being her servant, watching her parade around with him, knowing she’s using you? Or do you want to take back some control?” He pulls back, straightening his tie as if the conversation is no more than business.
“The choice is yours. But if you’re tired of being her shadow… You know where to find me.”
With that, he turns and walks away, leaving Dann standing there, her heart pounding and her thoughts racing.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
Dann sits at the back of the school library, nervously twisting the strap of her bag. The place is nearly deserted, the only sounds are the faint hum of the air conditioning and the occasional rustle of a page turning.
She checks her phone for the third time, anxiously glancing at the clock.
Finally, Seonghwa strides in, his usual air of confidence intact. Spotting her, he saunters over, dropping into the chair across from her.
“You’re lucky I don’t hate this place,” He mutters, propping his chin on his hand “Now, what’s so urgent?”
Dann hesitates, her gaze darting around to ensure no one’s within earshot “It’s about Mike.”
Seonghwa’s brow furrows slightly, but he maintains his calm demeanor.
“What about him?”
Dann leans closer, lowering her voice. “He… approached me yesterday. After YN and Hongjoong—” Her voice falters, and she shakes her head, willing herself to stay focused “He saw me upset and, um, he offered me a deal.”
Hwa’s eyes narrow, and for a moment, there’s an unreadable flicker in his expression.
“A deal?”
Dann nods quickly “He said he knows YN’s been using Hongjoong to hurt me, and he wants to help me… to bring her down.”
A smirk slowly spreads across Hwa’s face, but there’s a calculating glint in his eyes.
“Well, isn’t that interesting?”
“I don’t know what to do,” Dann admits, her voice shaking slightly. “I mean, I hate YN for everything she’s done, and he’s kind. I trust him, but I don’t know…”
“Well, you shouldn’t trust him,” Seonghwa says bluntly “Mike’s not the kind of guy who does anything out of the goodness of his heart. He’ll want something in return, probably something you’re not ready to give.”
Dann bites her lip, her uncertainty clear. His words sound similar to what you told her days ago.
'He's not what you think, Dann.'
“Then what do I do? If I say no, he’ll probably find another way to mess with her. But if I say yes…”
Hwa leans back in his chair, his smirk growing. “You'll say yes.”
“What?” Dann looks at him in shock.
“Think about it,” Hwa says smoothly. “This is an opportunity. Mike’s already got a grudge against YN, and he’s offering you a chance to take her down. Why waste that?”
“But…” Dann hesitates. “He’ll know I’m working with him. He might use me, too.”
Hwa leans forward, his voice low and firm. “That’s where I come in. You agree to his deal, play along with whatever he asks, but you don’t let him know about me. I’ll guide you from the sidelines, help you navigate whatever mess he pulls you into.”
Dann looks at him uncertainty “Why do you want to stay hidden? You and Mike… You know each other, don’t you?”
Hwa’s smirk fades slightly, replaced by a more serious expression.
“Our families are close. Too close. If he knows I’m involved, it’ll complicate things. And trust me, you don’t want him digging into your allies.”
Dann frowns, still unsure “So, I’m supposed to be his pawn, but secretly working for you?”
Seonghwa nods “Exactly. Let him think he’s in control, but we’ll be the ones pulling the strings.” He leans back again, his smirk returning. “And when the time comes, we’ll let the golden boy deal with his sister, then make sure he doesn’t come out unscathed, either.”
Dann hesitates for a moment longer before finally nodding.
“Okay… I’ll do it.”
“Good girl,” Hwa says with a grin “Just remember, no matter what Mike says or does, you keep me out of it. Understood?”
“Understood,” Dann says quietly, her resolve hardening.
As Seonghwa gets up to leave, he gives her a final glance.
“Don’t let him intimidate you, Dann. You’re stronger than you think. And with me in your corner, YN won’t stand a chance.”
Dann watches him walk away, her heart pounding. She feels a flicker of hope, but it’s laced with fear.
She’s stepping into dangerous territory, and she knows there’s no turning back now.
✮ ⋆
The evening air feels heavier as Dann makes her way to the agreed meeting spot. Seonghwa’s proposition lingers in her mind, but now, standing face-to-face with Mike, your seemingly perfect older brother, she feels a renewed sense of purpose.
“You’re late.” He remarks, his tone sharp and businesslike.
His piercing gaze studies her, assessing her worth as an ally. Dann crosses her arms defensively.
“I’m here, aren’t I?”
Mike smirks faintly, leaning back against the wall “Fair enough. So, you’ve decided to take me up on my offer. Good. Let’s not waste time—tell me everything you know about YN and this… Hongjoong guy.”
Dann hesitates, a flicker of doubt crossing her face. Is she really doing this? Betraying her values?
But then she recalls the laughter, the dismissive looks, and the countless times you made her feel small.
Her jaw tightens “Hongjoong used to be normal,” She begins, her voice steady but bitter “He had his own friends. He was part of that freak crowd. Good grades, nothing special. Just a regular guy trying to get by.”
Mike arches an eyebrow, intrigued “And now?”
“Now?” Dann scoffs, bitterness seeping into her tone “Now, he’s your sister’s lapdog. But before that, he was part of the ‘slaves’—as your sister and her friends called them. The kids who did their homework, their projects, whatever they didn’t feel like doing themselves.”
A flicker of surprise crosses Mike’s face, though he quickly masks it.
“Go on.”
“YN and her crew, they humiliated him. Constantly. He was a joke to them. They used him, mocked him, and then, one day, out of nowhere, YN decides he’s worthy of her attention. He just… sat with her at lunch one day, like it was the most normal thing in the world. After that, he started hanging out with them, ditching his old friends. Forgot about them completely.”
Mike’s expression hardens as he listens. He processes the information quickly, the gears in his mind already turning.
“So, you’re saying she picked him up like a… project?”
Dann nods “That’s exactly what it looks like. But the weird part is… he doesn’t seem to mind. If anything, he’s completely loyal to her. It’s like she has him wrapped around her finger.”
The older man chuckles darkly, his smile cold “That sounds like my little sister, all right. Always taking what she wants without a second thought.”
Dann swallows hard, her hands clenching into fists “She doesn’t deserve him. And he doesn’t deserve to just… get away with forgetting where he came from.”
Mike leans forward, his voice low and commanding “You’re absolutely right. That’s why we’re going to remind him—and her—that actions have consequences. But I need more. Details, patterns, vulnerabilities. I want to know everything she’s hiding.”
Dann hesitates, her mind flicking briefly to Seonghwa’s warning not to involve him. She decides to steer clear of mentioning her.
“The others, Mindy, Mingi, San, and Wooyoung, they’re all in her circle, part of the same game. They cover for her, laugh at her jokes, make sure no one crosses her. They’re as bad as she is, if not worse.”
Mike nods slowly. He knows all of your friends, but where is little Park Seonghwa? You used to be inseparable.
His expression is one of calculated determination “Good. That’s a start. Keep watching, keep listening. I want updates on every little thing. The more I know, the easier it’ll be to tear her down.”
Dann feels a chill run through her as she realizes just how serious Mike is. But she doesn’t back down. Dann bites her lip, glancing at him.
“There’s something else—something about Hongjoong.” His eyebrows lift slightly, urging her to continue “He… he always feels like he has to stay on YN’s good side,” She says slowly, her voice tinged with both resentment and a hint of sadness “Even when she’s wrong, even when she’s downright cruel.”
Mike narrows his eyes “What do you mean?”
Dann looks away, the memory of that day in the cafeteria flooding back “There was this one time. It wasn’t long after he started sitting with her, maybe a couple of weeks. YN was in one of her moods, and she was picking on me—making me carry her bag, fetch her coffee, stupid stuff like that.” Her voice trembles slightly, but she forces herself to keep going. “Hongjoong... He didn’t say a word.”
“Typical YN. But Hongjoong? That doesn’t sound like the hero type you’re making him out to be.”
“That’s the thing,” Dann says bitterly. “He’s not. Not really. He just… stood there, watching, like he didn’t want to risk making her angry.” She pauses, swallowing the lump in her throat. “But one day in the cafeteria, something happened. YN took it too far.”
“What did she do?” He asks, his tone colder now.
“I dropped her drink over her purse, Mindy made me get on my knees and beg YN's forgiveness...” Dann says quietly, her cheeks flushing with humiliation even at the memory. “And when I refused, YN stepped on my hand mercilessly. Everyone was laughing, pointing, but Hongjoong defended me… he told her to stop, and after he went after me.”
Mike tilts his head, intrigued “He stood up to her?”
“For a moment,” Dann says with a dry laugh “But you know what happened after that? She ignored him. For days. Didn’t talk to him, didn’t look at him. And Hongjoong? He couldn’t handle it. After a few days…. He apologized to her. For defending me that day in the cafeteria.” Dann says softly, bitterness slipping into her tone.
He arches an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued “And how do you know that?”
Her cheeks flush, and she looks away, remembering the explicit scene she saw that night, debating whether to answer.
“Because… I saw them.” She mutters.
“Saw them?” He presses, leaning forward slightly.
“At Wooyoung’s party,” Dann explains, her voice shaking, “They went upstairs together. I—I didn’t see everything, but when they came back, YN looked… satisfied. And Hongjoong looked…”
Her voice trails off, the implications hanging in the air. Mike’s lips twitch into a smirk, the pieces clicking together in his mind.
“Ah,” He drawls, a hint of amusement in his tone “So that’s how he managed to crawl his way into her good graces again.”
Dann bites her lip but says nothing, her face burning with a mix of shame and jealousy.
Mike chuckles, crossing his arms “Poor little Hongjoong. He’s so desperate to stay on YN’s good side, he’ll do whatever it takes, won’t he?” His smirk grows wider, more cruel “I’m almost impressed. Almost.” Dann looks down at her hands, refusing to meet his gaze “Sounds like he’s more afraid of being cast out than he is of losing his integrity. That’s good to know.”
Dann looks at him, frowning slightly “What do you mean?”
“I mean, that we can use that. If Hongjoong’s loyalty to YN is built on fear of losing her approval, it’s only a matter of time before he breaks.” He steps closer, his voice dropping to a near-whisper “People like that are easy to manipulate. You just have to know where to push.”
Dann hesitates, her gaze darting to the floor before meeting Mike’s calculating eyes.
“There’s one more thing,” She says cautiously.
“Go on.”
“Hongjoong… he asked YN out on a date,” Dann reveals, bitterness lacing her tone “I don’t know when or where, but he did.”
Mike’s expression darkens, a smirk curling at his lips.
“Now he’s inviting her on dates, playing the doting ‘boyfriend’ while she pulls the strings. It’s almost… poetic.” He leans forward again, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper “You know this fairytale won’t last, right? Once the thrill of the game wears off, they’ll both be exactly where they belong—crumbling.”
Unknown to Dann or Mike, you have just rounded the corner, your footsteps halting as you overhears your brother’s mocking voice. You step back into the shadows, your breath catching in your throat.
How does he know about the date?
Your stomach churns. You are drawn to Hongjoong—his warmth, his loyalty, the way he looks at you like you’re the center of the universe—but you can’t bring yourself to admit it.
Pride keeps your walls up, but fear builds them higher.
Fear that Hongjoong’s interest is just another way to climb to the top, that he’s using you like everyone else in your life seems to.
You clench your fists, forcing yourself to keep listening as Mike chuckles darkly.
“Well,” He continues, leaning back against the wall “Let them have their little fairytale moment. Let them hold hands, kiss under the stars, and pretend it’s all perfect.” He pauses, his smirk turning cruel “Because once it ends—and it will end—it’s going to crash down so hard they won’t know what hit them.”
You feel your chest tighten, your brother’s words hitting a nerve you didn’t even realize was raw. You press your back against the wall, your breathing shallow as you fight the urge to burst in and confront them.
Instead, you slip away quietly, mind a whirlwind of thoughts. Hongjoong asked you out…
But what if Mike’s right? What if it’s all just a game to him?
The idea sends a pang of vulnerability through your chest, one of you quickly smothering with anger.
No one uses you, you think fiercely, even as your heart betrays you with the smallest flicker of hope.
As you leave, Dann and Mike have done their chant. As Dann turns to leave, Mike’s voice stops her.
“Oh, and Dann,” He says, his tone almost casual but laced with menace “If you try to cross me or withhold anything… you’ll regret it.”
Dann doesn’t respond. She just walks away, her heart pounding in her chest.
She’s in too deep now, and there’s no turning back.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
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More Posts from Beabatiny and Others
Ahhhhh, I love it! I love it! I love it! I’m just smiling at my phone over words, but it just so sweet!
I’m now craving some italian.
Hi, congrats on 300 followers. I have a prompt request for the celebration. I would like to request a one-shot of jongseob with the prompt from sweet "smiling during kisses".
I would also like to add that the reader be gender neutral. congratulations again on 300 followers! 🎉
hihi! thank you so much for participating, and sorry for the late, hope you like it <3 ; 1k wc ; fluff ; first time writing for soeb aaaa ; and credits to my fav proofreader @sobun1est
300 followers event 🎀
You notice the light of the candles as soon as you open the door of your house, taking the first step inside your apartment.
“I’m home!” you said.
Shortly after, called by your voice, you noticed Jongseob coming out of his room to come and welcome you.
That day was your anniversary; one year had passed since you had confessed your tender love and the "roommate" label had turned into lovers. You had just returned from the small pastry shop where you worked in the afternoons to save up for your studies, and with you, you had a large plastic bag containing your boyfriend’s favorite cake.
Although neither of you was swimming in gold, you were happy with your flat. So you gradually decorated it and created a small home with all the amenities you could want.
“Welcome back, honey” he said to you, coming closer to steal a kiss from you and helping with the bags.
While he went to put the cake in the refrigerator you moved towards the small room, from where a soft light came.
As soon as you entered, you noticed that many candles were placed throughout the room, and in the center, there was a carefully set table. The window was wide open, and the view was of the city illuminated by the few lights of the night.
On the table there were two glasses, and next to them a bottle of your favorite wine. The plates had light red and gold decorations, and the tablecloth and napkins followed that theme.
There was also your record player, who carefully selected the records that had accompanied your evenings throughout that year.
“Do you remember our first date?” the boy asked you as he entered the room.
“When we shared pizza, sitting on this sofa while we tried to guess about the lives of the passers-by under this balcony? How could I forget?” you asked him.
He nodded and moved in your direction, seemingly unable to resist his desire to be by you.
He took your face in his hands and soon joined your lips in a long kiss.
“How about we create a remix, maybe with a slight upgrade?” he asked you, looking you directly in the eyes.
“I would love it,” he replied, smiling.
Everything at that moment brought back memories of the first date, when after a year of living together, since you attended the same university, that boy had come forward to ask you to be together.
“Happy anniversary Seob”
“You too, love” he replied.
During your first date, while you were waiting for the food to come, the two of you sat on the couch. You could only gaze lovingly at Jongseob's slim physique as he was focused on the task at hand—he had stood up to begin the vinyl recordings.
During the first date, you were waiting for the pizza to be delivered, while now you were waiting for the lasagna - entirely cooked by Jongseob - to cook in the oven!
You had once expressed how much you would have liked to taste Italian food, so that's why he chose it for dinner.
He had carefully chosen the order of the music records to listen to, as he had presented them to you during your year together.
To ensure that everything looked its best in your eyes, he had even asked his mother to lend him some of the dish set that she had used for her wedding.
He had discovered your favorite flavor in candles, and in his pocket, he had a crumpled piece of paper with a short poem that he wanted to recite to you.
Now he was sitting next to you on the couch and was following the moves of the first date step by step. He had counted how many times your eyes had crossed, but like the first time, he had gotten lost in your eyes and had opted for a more direct approach.
He had turned to you while you were watching him the whole time - noticing how his face was bright and how he had changed in a year. You vividly remembered all the features of his face and how his expression had gone from full concentration to complete disorientation as soon as he had looked at you.
And now everything was happening again: your eyes had met, and the butterflies in your stomach had started to dance.
He had soon come dangerously close and had canceled the distances. Neither of you could hold back a smile, remembering your first kiss while you were living the umpteenth. Many quick kisses alternated with passionate ones while your bodies also got closer.
You took a brief break to let out some lovely laughs that blended in with the background music like they were the melody itself.
Smiles between the kisses, comforting scents, and the warmth of the bodies that united.
He had moved his hand from behind your neck to your hips- oh how he had become bolder.
You were facing him and found it difficult to keep your eyes closed, so now and again when he drew you away, you gave him a tiny peek.
You loved so much seeing that boy's face up close.
With an awkward and hesitant smile, he looked so attractive with the candles lighting him.
The first time you had been interrupted by the arrival of the delivery boy, while this time by a strange burning smell that began to spread from the kitchen.
As soon as it hit your boyfriend's nostrils, his eyes widened and he suddenly stood up.
"THE LASAGNA!" he said as he ran towards the kitchen.
You giggled as you moved to go and check it out too.
As soon as you arrived in the kitchen you saw him wearing two pink skates and an apron of the same color, as he took the lasagna out of the oven. He hadn't even taken the time to turn on the light, the light of the candles was enough; but he had chosen to wear the apron to avoid dirtying the outfit he had worked on to impress you.
Luckily the lasagna wasn’t burnt, but on the contrary, it had acquired a light crunchy crust that had made that dish even better.
You found yourselves shortly after at the table, savoring that delicious food while you remembered the times gone by, shared moments of the present, and fantasized about future experiences.
ARE YOU READY TO FUCKING DIE, MIKE? IT’S REVENGE TIME BABY! HAHAHAHA I’VE BEEN WAITIN' FOR THIS ONE TURN IT UP!
Popular, Boy
☆11: The first truth.
Pairing: Nerd!Hongjoong x Popular!Reader
Genre: +18, smut, slow burn, angst, drama, love triangle.
wc: 7,5k
Summary: Apologies are given, but not in the way they should be. Old wounds linger, new alliances form, and the first steps towards something bigger are set in motion.
But as the tension rise, one thing becomes clear... this game is only just beginning.
Warnings: Cursing, power dynamics, manipulation, slight physical violence.
Series masterlist. Join the Taglist
☆10 ☆12: The first warning. Coming soon.
The staff stands in a rigid line in the grand hall of the Clarke mansion, their hands clasped in front of them, their gazes lowered but attentive.
The tension in the air is palpable, thick and unspoken. The echoes of last night’s violence still linger in the minds of every person standing there.
Dann’s mother shifts uncomfortably beside her daughter, her fingers tightening around the hem of her apron.
Dann, for once, isn’t fidgeting, isn’t sneaking glances at her phone or zoning out. She’s watching, truly watching, in a way she never has before.
Mike stands before them, dressed sharply as ever, exuding the effortless charm and authority that has always made people trust him despite the cruelty that lurks beneath.
His parents flank him—his father’s expression serious, his mother’s carefully curated into something that resembles concern.
“First of all,” Mike begins, his voice smooth, practiced, “I want to personally apologize for what you all witnessed days ago.” He pauses, his eyes scanning the crowd as if searching for sincerity within himself.
“My behavior was… unacceptable. I let my emotions get the best of me, and I regret that it happened in front of all of you.”
His mother nods approvingly beside him. His father remains impassive.
“It was a private family matter,” He continues, “And I assure you, YN and I have already spoken. She has forgiven me, and we are moving forward as a family.”
Dann’s stomach twists.
Liar. He hasn’t spoken to you. No one has.
“She understands, as I hope you all do, that moments of anger don’t define us,” Mike adds, his lips pressing into something that resembles a remorseful smile. “I’m not proud of how I acted, but I promise it will never happen again.”
There’s silence. Heavy. Expectant.
The staff doesn’t react, but they don’t need to—this isn’t about them believing Mike. This is about them accepting what they are being told to believe.
His father steps forward now, clearing his throat “We deeply appreciate all the work you do for this household. Your loyalty does not go unnoticed, and we want to express our gratitude for your discretion regarding the incident.”
A butler steps in, carrying a sleek tray, and within seconds, small black boxes are placed into the hands of each staff member.
Dann stares at the one in her mother’s hands.
It’s sickening. The Clarke family’s cycle of silence and bribery in its purest form.
Her mother hesitates, looking around nervously before murmuring, “Sir, this isn’t necessary…”
Your mother offers a practiced smile “Of course it is. You all work so hard, and we insist.”
Dann’s mother swallows, clutching the box tightly. Around them, the other staff members murmur quiet thanks, some with forced smiles, others merely nodding, understanding there is no choice in this.
Dann glances up at Mike, who catches her staring. He smirks just slightly, eyes gleaming with something dangerous, something knowing.
And for the first time, the weight of what she’s been a part of settles like a stone in her stomach. She lowers her gaze before anyone sees the regret forming there.
Because it’s too late for regrets now.
✮ ⋆
You’re quieter than usual, but it isn’t something peaceful. It’s the kind of silence that lingers after something terrible has happened, the kind that no one dares to break.
You sit on your soft bed, your body aching, the faint pressure of Mike’s hands still lingering on your throat. The dim lighting casts long shadows, and the scent of expensive perfume does little to soothe the heaviness in the air.
Your parents stand before you, poised as ever, their expressions carefully composed—concern etched into their faces just enough to seem believable, but not enough to be real.
Your father speaks first, his voice low and measured “Darling, what happened… was unfortunate.”
Unfortunate.
That’s the word they use when something inconvenient happens. When an investment fails, when a business deal doesn’t go through, when their son nearly strangles their daughter in front of an entire household.
Your mother sighs, sitting beside you, reaching out to grab your hand “You know how Mike gets. He has always struggled with controlling his emotions.”
Your lips curl bitterly “So that makes it okay?”
Your father narrows his eyes slightly, but his tone remains calm “No one is saying that. But you must understand, people like us don’t air our dirty laundry for the world to see. This is a family matter, and it must remain that way.”
You scoff, shifting in your bed despite the pain that flares up in your ribs “So you want me to pretend it didn’t happen? To protect him?”
“We are protecting you, sweetie.”
You let out a short, humorless laugh “Right. Because you care so much.”
Your mother sighs again, as if you are the one being difficult “Sweetheart, the world is cruel. You know that. Do you really want people gossiping about this? Do you want to ruin Mike’s future over a misunderstanding?”
Your fingers tighten around the fabric of the blankets “Misunderstanding?” Your voice is sharp, disbelief laced in every syllable. “He punched me. He choked me. In front of everyone. What exactly was misunderstood?”
Your father’s expression darkens, the mask of concern slipping just a fraction.
“Lower your voice.”
You bite your tongue, swallowing down the fury bubbling inside you. Your mother smooths your hair back, her tone soothing yet distant.
“Sweetie, we know you’re upset. But we also know that you’re strong. This family needs you to be composed, to move forward. And Mike… he regrets his actions.”
Your body goes rigid at the blatant lie. Mike never regrets anything.
Your father clears his throat, as if the conversation is now settled “We thought you might like this.”
A sleek black box is placed in your lap, the brand embossed in gold. Expensive. Extravagant.
Meaningless.
You don't even need to open it to know what it is.
Another gift.
Another bandage for wounds they refuse to acknowledge. you lift your gaze, meeting their expectant eyes. They wait for gratitude, for acceptance.
So you do. You smile, it’s slow, and void of warmth.
“Thank you,” You say, voice as smooth as silk, fingers brushing over the box as if you actually care.
They relax, satisfied. And in that moment, you make a silent vow.
You won’t forget. You won’t forgive.
And you sure as hell won’t let this go.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
During the week, Wooyoung hadn’t a real plan when he walked into the café, just the vague idea of seeing if the girl from the picture was really there.
The bell jingles softly as he steps inside, and he takes a casual glance around, pretending to look at the menu.
And then he sees them.
Little Hongjoong and that girl.
Hongjoong is sitting at one of the corner tables, wearing a simple work apron, speaking to the girl from the photo. She laughs at something he says before walking away to take another order.
Wooyoung narrows his eyes and strides over to Hongjoong’s table, plopping into the chair across from him.
“The fuck are you doing here?” Woo asks bluntly.
Hongjoong startled, then sighs when he realizes who it is “Woo? What are you—”
“No, no, don’t ‘Woo’ me,” He cuts him off, crossing his arms “Why are you here? And why the fuck is there a picture of you hugging that girl going around?”
Hongjoong rubs the back of his neck, looking exhausted “I work here, and what do you mean a picture of me is going around?”
Wooyoung blinks “...Excuse me?”
“I work here,” He repeats, voice quieter “I didn’t want anyone to know.”
Woo stares at him, then lets out a short, disbelieving laugh “Are you kidding me? You’ve been acting weird as hell, blowing YN off, and it turns out you’ve just been—what? Making lattes?”
Hongjoong exhales “My dad lost his job. I needed to help out. I didn’t tell YN because… I didn’t want her to think less of me.”
Wooyoung runs a hand down his face “Little Hongjoong…. Seriously?”
He avoids his gaze.
Shaking his head, Wooyoung pulls out his phone “Yeah, well, I’m telling her.”
Hongjoong’s eyes widens “Wooyoung, don’t—”
“Too late.” Wooyoung hits send a quick message to you, then smirks “She deserves to know the truth. And you need to stop being a dumbass.”
He groans, slumping in his seat “I hate you.”
Wooyoung just grins “You will love me after this, Joong.”
✮ ⋆
The soft glow of the screen illuminates your face as you lay in bed, your thumb hovering over the keyboard.
It has been a long, exhausting week—one filled with endless frustration, whispered conspiracies between Mindy and Wooyoung, and the dull ache of bruises that still hadn’t fully faded.
And then there, there is the message you were waiting for.
Brat Woo: Babydoll.
Brat Woo: False alarm, little Hongjoong is clean, and that slut works in that cafe, Hongjoong does too.
Bratty Woo: You should talk to him.
You have been fuming, pacing, and second-guessing yourself over and over.
But now, with Woo’s confirmation that the girl in the picture is nothing more than a coworker and that Hongjoong has been working in secret, your anger has simmered down to something else—something more dangerous.
Doubt.
Had you misjudged him? Had you let your paranoia and pain push you into believing the worst?
But then again, why had he kept all of this from you? Why hadn’t he shown up to your date? Why was he so distant after everything you had been through?
Taking a deep breath, you type Hongjoong a quick message.
YN♡: We need to talk.
The message is sent instantly, and you don't have to wait long for Hongjoong to arrive at your home.
✮ ⋆
Hongjoong stands at the front gates of your house, his heart hammering in his chest. The towering mansion, which once felt like an unattainable dream, now looms over him with an unfamiliar, suffocating presence.
The moment the gates open, he strides inside, his breath heavy with anticipation.
A maid opens the door, offering him a polite smile "Welcome, Miss YN is waiting for you in her room."
He barely nods before hurrying past her, his pulse quickening with every step. It’s been a week—a week without seeing you, without hearing your voice.
A week of torment, uncertainty, and the gnawing ache of missing you.
When he reaches your door, he hesitates for just a second before knocking "YN… it’s me, Hongjoong."
A beat of silence. Then, a quiet but firm, “Come in.”
He pushes the door open, and there you are.
Sitting at the edge of the bed, arms crossed, your gaze unreadable. But his eyes immediately drop to the bruises—faint marks on your throat, a cut on your lower lip, a fading bruise on your cheek.
His stomach twists.
"What happened to you, pretty?"
His voice is sharp with concern as he steps forward, instinctively reaching for you, but you tilt your chin up defiantly, stopping him in his tracks.
"Explain yourself first," You say coolly, eyes locking onto his "Depending on your answers, I’ll decide if I even want to keep listening to you."
He clenches his jaw, hands curling into fists at his sides "YN—"
"No," You cut him off "You ignored me for weeks. You left me sitting alone at that restaurant like a fool. You ghosted me after we fucked. And then…" You pull out your phone, swipe through it, and hold up the screen in his face "Seonghwa sent me this."
Hongjoong frowns at the image—a picture of him and Jina at the café, her arms wrapped around him in what looks like an intimate moment. His brows furrow.
The fuck? Is this the picture Wooyoung mentioned?
"Wait—what? When was this taken?"
You scoff, lowering your phone "So you don’t even know."
"No, I don’t—”
“Seonghwa sent it to me the same day as our date. Funny, huh?” Your bitter laugh stings more than a slap "You ditched me for this slut? Really, Kim?"
Hongjoong exhales slowly, his mind racing to piece things together. And then it clicks.
That night. The last-minute call. The way time slipped through his fingers.
“Pretty, it’s not what you think.”
You arch a brow in mock amusement “No?”
“No,” He says firmly, stepping closer, his voice steady despite the storm inside him “Let me explain from the beginning.”
He sits beside you, carefully, as if afraid you’ll push him away.
“That night, when we… When we slept together, I went home and found out my dad lost his job. Without his income, my family will struggle. So I did what I had to do—I found a part-time job at a café. That’s why I kept telling you I was busy after school.”
You stare at him, your expression unreadable. Then, you scoff, shaking your head.
“What a fucking joke.” His stomach sinks “So, you’re telling me that stupid rumor was false?”
“Completely.”
"And why didn't you tell me?" You snap, hitting his arm "I could have helped, and tell my parents to give your father a job or something! None of this drama would have happened!"
Hongjoong lets you hit him, knowing he deserves it "I know, but I didn’t want to burden you. You already had enough going on with Mike."
“You’re an idiot, Hongjoong! I thought the worst!” Another smack lands on his arm, and he barely flinches.
"I didn’t show up to our date because Jina called me at the last minute. She said it was something urgent, and it wouldn’t take long. But when I finally checked the time, I realized you were already gone.” He swallows hard “I meant to explain. But I was a coward—I didn’t know how.”
You study him, your gaze softening just a fraction “And the picture?”
He exhales sharply, running a hand through his hair “I don’t know. But I swear, there’s nothing between me and Jina. She’s just my coworker.”
Silence stretches between you, thick and suffocating. Then, Hongjoong reaches for your hand hesitantly, voice softening.
"Pretty, please believe me. I never wanted this to happen."
You let out a slow exhale, your shoulders slumping "Fine. But I still have a lot of questions."
Hongjoong nods, relief washing over him. Then, his gaze darkens as he looks at your bruises again. He gently cups your cheek, his thumb ghosting over the cut on your lip.
"Now… tell me what happened to you."
You hesitate. Then, in a quiet voice, you tell him.
“Mike.”
He stiffens, his grip tightening ever so slightly “Mike? Why?”
You swallow, looking away "It’s not the first time. He’s always had a problem controlling his anger. Whenever we argued, or I did something he didn’t like, he used to slap me. But this time… it was different. Since he came back, he’s been making my life hell, and I don’t know why."
Hongjoong inhales sharply, his hands clenching into fists "Why didn’t you tell me?" His voice is tight, laced with something dark—rage, guilt, protectiveness.
"Because he scares me," You whisper. This is the first time you admit being scared of Mike.
You look… small, fragile.
Broken.
Hongjoong doesn’t think. He just moves. He pulls you into his arms, holding you close, pressing his chin to the top of your head.
“I’m so sorry, pretty,” He murmurs, his heart aching at the quiet, shuddering breaths against his chest.
You stay like that for a long moment, wrapped in silence, until you speak again.
"He’s been acting weird. Like, he knows things that are private among my friends.”
“What do you mean?”
You pull back slightly “I don't know why, but he suddenly knew about you and our relationship, also the night I went to the club, someone sent Mike a video of me smoking.”
Hongjoong frowns “Someone recorded you?”
You nod “But only my close friends were there. Wooyoung and Mindy would never do something like that. That leaves Seonghwa, San, Mingi, and Samantha.”
He exhales sharply “Seonghwa. It has to be him.”
“But we made a truce. We’ve been friends since we were kids.”
Hongjoong shakes his head “I don’t trust him, pretty.”
You hesitate, thinking “But even if he recorded it… how did Mike get it? They know each other because of our families, but they’re not close.”
Silence. Until one name suddenly clicks into place.
“…Dann.”
Hongjoong frowns “Why her?”
You straighten, your mind racing “Mindy told me that Seonghwa talked with her at the party, something that is really rare. Also Dann gave you the wrong address, and maybe—maybe she even started the rumor about us at school.”
The realization settles between you like a ticking bomb.
“We need to find out the truth.”
You nod, determination hardening your features “We do. Also, I can ask my dad If he has a job for your dad, I don't want you to work in that cafeteria with that bitch.”
Hongjoong chuckles “Fine, thank you, pretty.”
And with that, your heart feels more at ease knowing the truth, knowing that he is with you.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
It had been two weeks since the day Mike had left bruises on your skin, and the sick feeling of helplessness in your gut.
It’s been two weeks since you went to school, refusing to let everyone see you in that state.
As always, your parents refused to acknowledge the real issue.
You sit in your room, staring at the velvet box fanned out on your desk. It’s always the same cycle.
You would get hurt, and your parents would throw money at the problem, expecting you to accept it with gratitude.
Maybe you would have, once upon a time. But not anymore. Not after everything.
You aren’t going to let them buy your silence this time. If they think a luxurious car would make you forget that their golden son had left marks on your skin, they are dead wrong.
If anything, this is the perfect opportunity.
You’re going to take their gift, but instead of numbing yourself in paradise, you would use it to take the first step in exposing Mike for what he really is.
Bringing him down from his pedestal is’t going to be easy. Your parents are blind to his flaws, and the rest of the world worships him. But you have something they don’t.
You have the truth, and you have Hanhah.
Your fingers brush against your phone as you pull up a text conversation. It 's one of many. Over these four years, you had kept in touch with Hannah, sending her money every month to help with the baby.
A baby that Mike had abandoned, a baby who would be turning four soon.
You scroll through the latest messages, lingering on a photo Hannah had sent a few days ago. A little girl with big, round eyes and wisps of dark hair smiled up at the camera, completely oblivious to the world she had been born into.
The sight of her made your chest tighten.
You can feel it in your bones—this is the way to finally shatter Mike’s perfect image. Your parents can’t ignore this. They wouldn’t be able to excuse him once they knew the truth.
But you need to be smart. If you are going to do this, you can’t do it alone.
That’s where Hongjoong, Mindy, and Wooyoung came in.
You grab your phone and fire off a quick message to the group chat you have with them.
YN♡: Meet me at the cafe tonight. No excuses.
You know they would come. They always do. And once they are here, you would tell them everything.
And about Seonghwa and Dann—because you have a feeling that whatever is going on with Mike, those two aren’t far behind.
By the time it is over, you would make sure Mike’s untouchable image is nothing but dust.
✮ ⋆
“You want to tell your parents about Hannah?” Mindy finally says, her brows furrowed “Are you sure about this, babe?”
“I have to,” You respond, voice steady “I can’t let him keep getting away with everything.”
Wooyoung lets out a low whistle “And how exactly are you planning to do that? I mean, your parents are obsessed with Mike. Even if you show them proof, they might cover it up.”
You exhale sharply, already expecting this “That’s why I need more than just the truth—I need to make it so public they can’t ignore it.”
Mindy tilts her head “When are you planning to tell them?”
“If Seonghwa and Dann are involved in this, I need to deal with them first… Then with Mike.”
“You really think they’re working with Mike?” Wooyoung asks.
“It makes too much sense. Mike knew things he had no way of knowing. The video of me smoking, the rumors about Joong, the fake address Dann gave him… someone was feeding him information.”
Mindy taps a manicured finger against her knee “So what’s the plan?”
You lean forward “First, I’ll talk to Hannah. Maybe ask her for a DNA test or something that will make my parents believe me.” You meet Hongjoong’s gaze “You will come with me.”
“Me? I don't even know who she is.”
“You don't need to know her, I just need some support.”
He hesitates for a moment before nodding “Okay.”
You then turn to Wooyoung and Mindy “As for you two… I need you to say something false about me and Joong, make sure Seonghwa listens. Only like that can we know if Hwa and Dann are working with Mike.”
Woo grins, cracking his knuckles “You want dirt? I’ll get you dirt, babydoll.”
Mindy smirks “Oh, this is going to be fun.”
You lean back, exhaling. The plan is in motion. Now, all they have to do is execute it perfectly.
The night air is crisp as you step out of the café, your mind already racing with what needs to be done next. The plan is fragile—it has to be executed perfectly, or everything could backfire.
Hongjoong walks beside you, hands shoved into his jacket pockets, his gaze flickering toward you every few seconds.
“Are you sure you want me there?” He asks. “I mean… Hannah might not even want to see me.”
You inhale deeply, steadying yourself “She won’t care about you, Joong. She’ll care about what I have to say.”
He doesn’t argue, but you can tell he’s uneasy. Maybe it’s because he still doesn’t know everything.
“We’re meeting her tomorrow,” You continue. “She doesn’t know why yet, but she agreed.”
He nods, but you can feel the tension radiating off of him. He wants to ask more. Maybe about this woman, maybe about what you have in mind.
But you don’t give him the chance. Because right now, there’s something more pressing.
Wooyoung and Mindy walk a few steps ahead, already whispering between themselves, likely crafting the perfect lie to spread.
They need to bait Seonghwa. It has to be something good—something that hurts.
“So what should we say?” Mindy asks, glancing back at you. “Something mild or something explosive?”
“Explosive,” You say without hesitation. “Something that makes me look weak. Hwa will eat it up.”
Wooyoung grins “How about we say that you and little Hongjoong broke up?”
Hongjoong tenses beside you. You glance at him but don’t react “Not enough… We need something that will make Hwa really want Mike to know.”
Mindy taps her chin, pretending to think. “How about this—Hongjoong is using you to get popularity and status, you know about it but you’re still with him, done.”
Hongjoong exhales sharply through his nose “That’s messed up.”
“That’s perfect,” You correct.
Mindy shrugs “If we’re going to do this, we might as well make it believable.”
“Just make sure Seonghwa hears it, and if you can, make sure to see if he interacts with Dann.” You remind them. “If it gets back to Mike too quickly, he and Dann will be suspicious.”
Wooyoung throws an arm around Mindy’s shoulders “Oh, don’t worry, babydoll. By the time we’re done, Seonghwa will be begging Dann to tell Mike.”
The four of you reach the parking lot, where your cars are waiting. For a moment, you let the night sink in, let the weight of what you’re about to do settle on your shoulders.
This is it.
The first move.
Tomorrow, you will see Hannah.
Tomorrow, everything will change.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
The drive to Hannah’s apartment is quiet.
Hongjoong grips the steering wheel, eyes flickering toward you every so often, but he doesn’t speak.
You know he has questions—a lot of them—but you aren’t ready to answer.
Not yet.
The known streets fade the further you go, the streets narrowing, the polished luxury of your world giving way to something simpler, something real.
The buildings are smaller, older, stacked closely together. There’s no security at the entrance, no valet, no extravagance. Just a plain apartment complex with rusted railings and dimly lit hallways.
Hongjoong pulls into a spot and cuts the engine. He exhales, rubbing a hand over your thigh.
“Are you sure about this?”
You don’t hesitate “Yes.”
He studies you for a moment, like he’s trying to see past the walls you’ve built. Then, with a slow nod, he pushes open his door.
Holding hands, you two walk towards the little building. The stairs creak beneath your heels as you ascend to the third floor. Apartment 3B.
You don’t knock right away. Your fingers hover over the door for a second too long.
He notices “Pretty?”
Before you can second-guess yourself, you knock. A few moments later, the door swings open.
Hannah stands there, barefoot, dressed in simple lounge clothes. No makeup, no carefully styled hair, just Hana.
She blinks in surprise when she sees Hongjoong beside you, but her expression quickly hardens.
“You brought company,” She says flatly.
You exhale “Can we come in?”
Hannah hesitates. Then, without a word, she steps aside.
The apartment is small but warm. Lived in. A couch with a few toys scattered around, a tiny dining table with an open laptop, the faint scent of baby powder and vanilla lingering in the air.
And then—
“Auntie!”
A small blur of motion comes rushing toward you. Tiny arms wrap around your legs, a little giggle filling the space.
Hongjoong freezes beside you.
You crouch down, smoothing a hand over the little girl’s soft, dark curls “Hi, baby.”
She beams at you, big round eyes shining with pure joy “Did you bring me a present?”
Your chest tightens “I’ll bring one next time, I promise.”
She giggles again, then turns her attention to Hongjoong, tilting her head curiously.
“Who’s that?”
Joong is pale, not believing what he is seeing.
You stand, brushing imaginary dust from your clothes “This is my friend, Hongjoong.”
The little girl stares at him for a moment, “Do you like cookies?”
He blinks “Uh… yeah?”
The little girl grins “Then you can stay.”
And with that, she toddles off toward the couch, already forgetting about him.
Hanhah watches the whole exchange with guarded eyes “You didn’t tell him, did you?” She finally says.
Hongjoong shifts beside you, eyes darting between the two of you “Tell me what?”
You inhale sharply, turning to face him fully. “Joong… this is Hanhah’s daughter.”
His brows furrow “Okay…?”
You swallow, your voice steady but heavy “She’s Mike’s daughter.”
The words drop like a bomb in the small apartment.
Hongjoong’s entire body goes stiff. His eyes widen, darting back to the little girl, who is now occupied with a stuffed bear on the couch. Slowly, like he’s trying to piece together a puzzle that shouldn’t exist, he turns back to you.
“YN,” He says carefully, voice lower now, “What the hell are you talking about?”
You clench your jaw “Exactly what I said.”
Hannah crosses her arms, looking at him like she’s daring him to say something stupid.
“You didn’t think Mike was actually perfect, did you?”
Hongjoong swallows hard, his Adam’s apple bobbing “He—he has a kid?”
“With me,” Hanhah confirms. “And he threatened to ruin my life if I ever told anyone.”
He shakes his head, running a hand through his hair “Jesus Christ, pretty.”
You shift closer to him, lowering your voice “Now do you see why I need to do this?”
Joong exhales sharply, glancing at the little girl again. His expression shifts, something unreadable flickering across his face. And then, he nods.
“I’m in,” He says. “Whatever you need, I’m in.”
For the first time that night, you breathe a little easier.
Because this is just the beginning.
✮ ⋆
The air feels heavy with unspoken words as you and Hongjoong sit at the small, worn-out table across from Hannah.
The little girl, still distracted by her stuffed bear, giggles every now and then, blissfully unaware of the storm brewing in the room.
Hongjoong, still processing, doesn’t look at you, but he holds your hand in his. His eyes are fixed on the little girl, his mind likely racing with questions.
"You’re telling me Mike doesn’t know she’s alive?" He asks, his voice barely above a whisper, the disbelief in it palpable.
Hannah’s gaze darkens "No. He thinks I had an abortion. That’s what he told me to do. He threatened me, said if I didn’t… he’d ruin my life. He was so sure of it. He made me believe it was the only option." Her voice cracks slightly, but she steadies herself.
“But I couldn’t do it. I couldn’t end her life just because Mike didn’t want the world to know about her."
The words land like a punch, and Hongjoong recoils slightly, the reality of the situation sinking in.
"That’s why you’ve been—" He gestures vaguely toward her daughter, still oblivious to the weight of their conversation. "You’ve been keeping her a secret all these years?"
She nods, her face hardening as she looks down at her daughter "I’ve had to. For her safety. For my sanity. I couldn't risk Mike finding out she was alive. Not after everything he said." She pauses, her fingers brushing over the baby’s small hand. “I’ve kept in contact with YN, because… because someone had to know the truth.”
You feel a pang of guilt in your chest, the weight of what you’ve been hiding from everyone—the truth that no one, especially Mike, could ever learn.
You’ve helped her for years, sending money for the baby, but the lies have built walls between you and your family.
It was always supposed to stay secret. But now, you need to bring it all into the light. And you need to do it carefully.
You turn to Hongjoong, your voice low “Mike doesn’t know she’s alive. And he can’t. He will never find out, not from me. And I’ve never let anyone get close to her… until now.”
His eyes flicker with understanding, the pieces finally coming together "So... we’re not just exposing Mike’s secrets, we’re exposing his lies too."
You nod, the weight of the plan growing heavier “Exactly.”
Hannah sits in silence for a moment, as if weighing something in her mind.
“I know this is going to be dangerous for all of us. I’ve lived in fear of Mike finding out. But I can’t hide anymore. This girl deserves to know the truth.”
You exhale, your heart racing “I won’t let him keep his image. Not anymore.”
“Okay,” Hongjoong says finally, his voice steady. “But you know this is going to take more than just telling your parents, right? We need evidence. Something undeniable.”
You nod again “That’s why we need a DNA test. Hannah, you’re going to have to agree to it. It’s the only way we can prove it. If we can show them she is his, there’s no way they’ll be able to cover it up.”
She hesitates, you see the fear flash across her face “If I do this... will it be enough? Will your parents believe it?”
“I hope so,” You say firmly. “And once they know—once we have that proof—they’ll have no choice but to acknowledge him for who he really is. No more pretending.”
Hongjoong watches you for a beat, his eyes softening just slightly “We’ll do this together. But we have to be careful. One wrong move and it’s over.”
Hannah stands up, wiping her palms on her pants, clearly anxious but resolved.
“Okay. I’ll do it. For her. For her future.”
The little girl looks up at the three of you, her big, innocent eyes wide.
“Are we gonna tell Daddy soon?”
Your breath catches in your throat. The innocence in her voice makes everything feel so much heavier.
“We’ll tell him when the time is right,” You say, forcing a smile. “When he’s ready to hear it.”
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
While you and Hongjoon talk with Hannah, Mindy and Wooyoung sit casually in the school cafeteria, their voices just loud enough to be overheard.
Woo, always the playful one, dramatically leans in closer to Mindy, whispering just loud enough for nearby ears to catch pieces of their conversation.
“You heard about Hongjoong, right?” Wooyoung says, shaking his head with exaggerated concern. “Babydoll’s been buying him stuff. Like, a lot of stuff.”
Mindy gasps, playing along “No way. So the rumors are true? He’s just using her?”
Woo sighs, rubbing his temples “I don’t want to believe it, but even YN’s starting to realize it. She told me she’s thinking about ending things. She’s just waiting for the right moment.”
Seonghwa, sitting at a nearby table with other students, doesn’t react outwardly, but Mindy catches the way his fingers still over his phone.
She knows he’s listening. Mindy lowers her voice just a bit, making it seem like she doesn’t want to be overheard.
“That’s not all. Hongjoong’s been acting super secretive. I heard he’s meeting up with someone outside of school. A girl.”
Wooyoung raises an eyebrow “A girl? Who?”
Mindy shrugs, keeping it vague “I don’t know yet, but I’m sure it’s not YN.”
A beat of silence. Then Seonghwa stands, casually stretching before walking off—phone in hand.
Mindy and Wooyoung exchange a look. Hook, line, and sinker.
If Seonghwa really is working with Dann, it won’t be long before this ‘information’ reaches Mike.
✮ ⋆
Dann moves through the crowded hallway, her arms wrapped tightly around her books as she heads toward the library.
She’s been keeping her head down lately, avoiding unnecessary conversations—especially with Mike and Seonghwa.
After what happened to you, after seeing Mike’s violence firsthand, something in her feels wrong.
Maybe this has gone too far.
But Seonghwa doesn’t give her a choice.
“Dann.”
His voice cuts through the noise, smooth and controlled, but she knows him well enough to hear the edge beneath it. She stops mid-step, squeezing her eyes shut for a brief second before turning around.
Seonghwa leans casually against the lockers, arms crossed, looking her up and down with that usual amused smirk. But there’s something else in his expression—something sharp.
“We need to talk.”
Dann swallows “I have class.”
“It can wait.” He pushes off the lockers and steps closer, lowering his voice. “I heard something you’re gonna love.”
She forces herself to look bored “I doubt that.”
Hwa chuckles, shaking his head “You really should be more curious, Dann. You and I both know Mike would want to hear this.”
Her stomach twists “I don’t—”
“The nerd is using YN.”
Dann freezes. Seonghwa watches her carefully, letting the words settle in before continuing.
“Wooyoung and Mindy said it. Apparently, Hongjoong’s only with her for popularity. And get this—she knows it. She’s staying with him anyway.”
Dann shifts uncomfortably, gripping her books tighter “So what? That’s their problem, not ours.”
Hwa’s smirk fades slightly “Are you forgetting who you’re working with? Mike needs to know this.”
Dann glances around, her pulse quickening “Maybe… maybe we shouldn’t get involved in this one.”
His eyes narrow, and just like that, his amusement vanishes. He steps closer, his voice dropping to a whisper.
“What’s wrong with you lately?”
“Nothing,” She lies, shifting her weight.
“You’re acting differently.”
“I just think—” She hesitates, wetting her lips. “I think Mike has enough reasons to hate her already. He doesn’t need this one either.”
Seonghwa scoffs, shaking his head “Of course he does. What’s better than proving she’s pathetic? That she’s weak?” He tilts his head, watching her carefully. “Unless you don’t want to be useful to him anymore?”
Dann clenches her jaw. She feels cornered, the guilt pressing down on her chest.
YN doesn’t deserve this.
But Seonghwa is watching her like a predator, waiting for any sign of weakness. If she refuses, he’ll start asking questions—questions that might lead back to her hesitations, her guilt. If Mike finds out she’s doubting him…
She exhales shakily, looking down at her shoes “Fine,” she mutters. “I’ll tell him.”
His smirk returns instantly “Good girl.”
She doesn’t move right away. Every fiber of her being screams at her to walk away, to stop this before it goes any further.
But she doesn’t.
Instead, she pulls out her phone, her fingers trembling as she types a message to him.
Dann: We need to talk. It’s about YN and Hongjoong.
As she presses send, she feels sick.
She doesn’t notice the two figures watching from down the hall.
Wooyoung leans lazily against the lockers, arms crossed, his grin widening. “Babydoll was right.”
Mindy hums, inspecting her nails. “Honestly, I knew it since the day I saw her talking with Hwa at the party.”
Woo chuckles. “Well, he did what we needed him to do.”
Mindy smirks, flicking her gaze toward Dann “Now lets see if Dann tells Mike.”
Because once Mike hears this, things will really start falling apart.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
The evening air is cool against your skin as you push open the balcony doors of your bedroom, stepping outside with a quiet sigh.
The city lights stretch far into the distance, twinkling against the dark sky.
Everything feels too much—Hannah, the baby, the truth you’re about to reveal. It’s all starting to feel real.
But then, there’s him.
Hongjoong stands a few feet away, leaning against the railing, his gaze distant. He’s been quiet since you got home, like he’s still trying to piece everything together.
You step beside him, resting your arms on the railing "You’re thinking too much," You murmur.
He huffs out a small laugh, shaking his head "Can you blame me?"
You tilt your head, watching him "What’s on your mind?"
He exhales, running a hand through his hair. "Hannah, the baby, Mike. You." He glances at you then, something unreadable in his expression. "This is a lot, pretty. I just… I don’t want you to go through this alone."
You blink at him, caught off guard.
He’s serious.
"You really mean that?" You ask softly.
Hongjoong turns fully toward you, his brows drawing together. "Of course I do. I—" He hesitates, like the words are caught in his throat. Then, with a deep breath, he presses on. "I care about you, YN. More than you think."
Your heart does something strange—tightens, twists, then swells. You don’t know what to say. No one has ever said that to you, not like this.
Not like they meant it.
So, instead of words, you step closer, your hands reaching out on instinct.
He doesn’t move as you slip your arms around his waist, pressing your forehead against his shoulder.
He’s warm, steady, safe.
For a second, he’s frozen. Then, slowly, his arms come around you too, holding you just as tightly.
"You don’t have to do anything for me," You whisper. "Just… stay with me."
Hongjoong rests his chin on top of your head, his voice quiet but firm.
"I’m not going anywhere."
And for the first time in a long time, you believe it.
✮ ⋆
Your room is dimly lit, the golden glow from your bedside lamp casting soft shadows on the walls.
The silence is peaceful, interrupted only by the faint sound of pages flipping as Hongjoong sits on your bed, pretending to read a book but really just stealing glances at you.
You’re laying next to him, your head resting in his lap while you scroll over your social media.
He is about to say something when a sharp knock.
No. Not a knock. A demand interrupts him.
You freeze, and Hongjoong’s muscles tense. Then the door swings open without waiting for permission.
Mike steps inside, composed as ever, but there’s something in his eyes—something sharp, something dangerous.
You meet his gaze, already standing from your comfortable position.
"What the hell are you—"
"You’re pathetic," He cuts you off smoothly "And predictable." His gaze flickers to Hongjoong, and he lets out a small, humorless chuckle "I should have known he’d be here."
"What do you want, Mike?"
"You really are desperate, aren’t you?" His voice is low, full of quiet venom "So desperate for someone to want you that you’re letting this nerd use you. And what’s worse?" He tilts his head, lips curving into something cruel "You fucking know it."
You smile when you hear that. It was them.
"And where did you get that brilliant theory? Park Seonghwa?" A pause "Or Dann?"
Something flickers in Mike’s eyes. Park Seonghwa? What does Seonghwa have to do with this?
You scoff "Of course. You must be proud—controlling people like puppets, just like you always do."
Mike steps closer "And you’re any different?" His voice lowers "You lie to yourself every day, pretending you’re not just as pathetic as the rest of them. But deep down, you know the truth."
"You want to talk about truth?" Your heart pounds as you take a step forward, voice daring, reckless "What about Hannah then?"
The moment the name Hannah leaves your lips, the air in the room shifts. Mike stiffens, his entire body going rigid. The usual arrogance in his expression wavers—just for a second, but it’s there.
A crack. A weakness.
You see it, Hongjoong sees it.
And then, Mike moves.
The slap comes fast, too fast.
The sound of it rings through the room, a sickening crack as his palm connects with your cheek, whipping your head to the side.
The sting is instant, burning hot, your skin already throbbing. You gasp, stumbling back, your vision blurring for a split second.
But before you can process the pain—before you can even react—Hongjoong is already moving.
"What the fuck is wrong with you?!" The anger in his voice is like nothing you’ve ever heard before.
Hongjoong shoves Mike back, his entire body coiled with fury. The sharp contrast between his usual calm demeanor and the pure rage in his eyes is enough to make even Mike falter.
"You don’t get to do that," Hongjoong seethes, standing between you and your brother, fists clenched so tightly his knuckles are white. "Not to her. Not to anyone."
Mike’s lips curl, his composure snapping back into place, but there’s an unmistakable flicker of irritation—maybe even surprise—at Hongjoong’s audacity.
"And what exactly do you think you’re doing?" Mike taunts, brushing off the shove like it was nothing. "You think you can protect her?" He scoffs. "You think she needs you?"
Hongjoong doesn’t flinch "She doesn’t need me," He admits, voice steady. "But I’m still here. And I won’t fucking stand by while you hurt her."
There’s something raw, undeniable in his words. You blink, still dazed from the slap, your hand hovering near your stinging cheek. Hongjoong turns slightly, eyes softening when they land on you.
"Are you okay, pretty?" His voice is lower now, gentle.
Something inside you twists.
Mike clicks his tongue in disgust "Pathetic," He mutters.
Hongjoong’s jaw clenches "Get the fuck out."
For the first time, Mike hesitates.
Hongjoong’s not just some quiet, desperate nerd anymore. He’s furious. Unshakable. And for once, Mike doesn’t have complete control over the situation.
"You’re making a mistake, nerd." Mike finally says, his voice cold, but there’s something else there too—annoyance, maybe even unease.
"Get. Out," Hongjoong repeats, this time his voice lower, quieter—but somehow deadlier.
Mike holds his gaze for a long moment before scoffing and turning toward the door. But before he leaves, he glances at you one last time.
"You think you’re playing some clever game, but you have no idea what you’re doing," He murmurs. "You’ll regret this, YN."
With that, he walks out, slamming the door behind him. The room is suffocatingly silent in the aftermath.
Hongjoong exhales sharply, running a hand through his hair as he turns back to you. His fingers twitch, like he wants to reach for you but isn’t sure if he should.
"Pretty—"
"I’m fine," You cut him off, voice tight.
But you’re not fine.
You’re shaking. Your cheek burns. Your heart is racing. And then, without thinking, you step forward and wrap your arms around Hongjoong.
He melts immediately into the embrace, his arms coming around you protectively.
"I’ve got you," He murmurs into your hair. "I’m right here."
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
Taglist: @mrskill2 @stayatinykatsy @badbitch69420sworld @lunaryoongie @certifiedmoa @jilxxasu @alliecoady98 @maidens-world @Lemonkait00 @yulsr @justconniez @luvvvash @zaynsfl4m3s @nkryuki @boomzen @silenttrxxs @blue5ummer @khaskl08 @unbroken-shadows @vnxlla @latisthegenderfluidwannabealone @milliesupremexx @xh01bri @a-atiny_niawoo @winterstuf @domfikeluva @lezleeferguson-120 @beabatiny @yothangie @lover-of-fics @mingipessego @Ycuhugi @posseup @0407files @cheolright @nyx-y @yeorisanaxox @innocygnet @a-tiny-thing @sannieily @maplelilly05 @ddeonugu @niaee @yunhogrippers @itzyejiluv @sannieworshipper @m0onchild-98 @l0vjoongie
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All rights reserved ♡bunny-hwa. Do not copy or translate my work.
I’m trying to guess if this is when be:first comes in or they come in for an entirely different reason.
| 𝒮𝑒𝓁𝒻𝒾𝓈𝒽 𝐿𝑜𝓋𝑒 | Chapter Three
Ot8!Mafia!Ateez x Female!Reader
Summary: After losing everything through gambling, your father's debts to the Ateez Mafia have resulted in you becoming their property. With no other family left, you are now at the mercy of these dangerous criminals due to your father's reckless actions.
Warnings: None (If I forgot any, don’t be afraid to tell me!)
Amazing Tags: @n0v4t33z @potatomountain for the inspiration
WC: 2k
Nets: @othersideoutlawsnetwork
Tags: @xomakara @jedi-dreea @beabatiny @ateezaddict24 @spenceatiny18 @18fernanda @prodsh00ky @evercodeee @yizhou-time @smally97 @eshia-16 @daniela-f-uwu u @peachyy-joonie @butterfliesinthenightsky @dassmyname @unlikelysublimekryptonite @dollinno @stay-tiny-things @joongscheese @misskarynie @monstacheol @yeosangcutie0615 @mariaa @pinuspot @amphiroxx @kitten4sannie (MOTIVATION THANK YOU) tags to be continued.
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Days had passed since Y/N was captured. Each day felt like a year being passed, it was agonizing. She wasn’t allowed to leave her room since she tried to escape her first day. She had visitors, mainly Hongjoong. Who she’s come to slowly trust but was still afraid of him.
Hongjoong was a nice man, genuinely. His exterior was soft and he behaved tough with his members but he took care of Y/N so well. He’d brush her hair, calm her down if she had a breakdown.
Just as he was doing now.
“Sh, sh, beautiful. Don’t waste those tears on that beautiful face of yours.” Hongjoong’s fingers were quick to wipe away her tears, “I know you don’t want to be here but it has to be this way. We don’t play about our money. Or being backstabbed.”
Y/N looked at him with tear stained eyes, “I know..I’m just, I’m just scared, Mr Hongjoong. Your people scare me.”
He let out a small chortle, “Oh, beautiful.” A small tut left his mouth, “My men are ruthless, I trained them to be that way but I did however, tell them to treat you gently. Cannot allow our only leverage to be damaged.” No one would believe the amount of times their leverage was killed and they never got their revenge. Or money.
That was Wooyoung's fault last time. He was of course punished accordingly in more ways than one (he liked his punishment so it was useless in the end.)
The tired girl nodded as she let Hongjoong pull her close, his embrace was warm and inviting.
“Come now, let’s get you some food.”
Y/N allowed him to gently walk her down the hallway and down a lavish staircase. It led into what she assumed was the grand entrance, but it was heavily guarded and maids were fluttering around, cleaning every corner.
“Kitchen is this way. However I’d advise you not to touch anything until I tell you so. Wooyoung is particular about his kitchen.” Hongjoong pressed his hand against her lower back as he ushered her into the said room.
“Hongjoong is that you?” A voice called out followed by clattering dishes.
“Yeah it’s me, come here, Woo. Want you to meet someone.” With those words, Wooyoung set down his dish and turned around.
A beautiful man was revealed. Was everyone in this house so strikingly handsome? Wooyoung grinned at the newcomer, thoughts already plaguing his mind, “Mm, is this the pretty girl I’ve heard so much about?”
Y/N looked away, all flustered, not used to such compliments or this many at all.
“Wooyoung. Don’t. But yes, this is the shitheads daughter. She’s our leverage till he comes out of hiding.” Hongjoong’s voice only had a moment of authority, shortly returning to a softer tone.
“Oh, okay, well. Can we keep her?” Wooyoung grinned and stepped closer, quickly pushing his leader's buttons.
Y/N stepped behind Hongjoong to avoid the gaze of the man. She wasn’t afraid but his grin was quite compelling, as if to lead her into seduction. It was definitely working. His long hair was stunning and his nose, so damn majestic.
Hongjoong could hear her every thought and he couldn’t help but shake his head, “I swear, between the two of you- you know what, never mind. Anyway, Wooyoung. I have a job for you.”
Wooyoung immediately turned serious, “Yes, sir?”
“I need you to find out more about her father. We need to pinpoint secret hiding locations. Places he’d think we’d never check. If you can, take Y/N to the city and have her show you places. But don’t let her out of your eyesight,” Hongjoong then stepped forward and grabbed Wooyoung’s shoulder, “and don’t do anything stupid. Don’t even try to flirt your way into her pants.”
“Fine, captain.”
“Good, now get ready to go. I have an arms dealer to meet with.” Hongjoong quickly left Y/N to Wooyoung’s devices.
Oh boy, this was gonna be a train wreck.
—
“Ah, ah, slow down little Princess. I was told to keep an eye on you.” Wooyoung scoffed as he tried to chase after the girl. She wasn’t trying to escape, no, she was trying to find her father so she didn’t have to go back.
As she swung the corner to a deli, eagerly looking inside for her father. He was nowhere to be seen. Of course he wasn’t.
He always did this. He ran from his problems and even now, he abandoned his own daughter. Y/N felt lost, betrayed, heartbroken even.
Wooyoung finally caught up to her, “What are you- oh. He’s not here is he?” Wooyoung could feel her disappointment and sheer sadness. He almost felt bad but then again, you don’t fuck with ateez, “Hey, listen. This just means you get to hang out some more with me.” He tried to lighten up her mood but it only made it worse and she broke down.
Fuck fuck fuck fuck.
Wooyoung panicked and lifted her off the ground, “Shit, I’m so sorry, please do not cry.”
Y/N shoved him away but that only angered him. He was trying to be nice and help her.
“Fine, be that way but you’re still going back to the manor.” Wooyoung let her arm go and called Hongjoong, “She’s done being outside for the day, we are coming back, sir.”
Y/N protested as she was flipped onto the man’s shoulder, “Let me go!” Bystanders watched but did nothing.
They knew better not to interfere.
Y/N sobbed in defeat as she pounded onto his back, trying her damndest to get away.
Wooyoung did feel only just tad bad about treating her this way but they need her to find her father. Sure, they could just let it go but then it would set an example for others that they could get away with betraying the group. Wooyoung knew Hongjoong’s ego wouldn’t let that fly. Ever.
“Y/N, please stop flailing around. I don’t want to hurt you.” His voice was soft spoken, showing he meant his words. Wooyoung truly didn’t want to hurt her.
Wait.
He had an idea. Maybe ice cream would cheer her up.
What an idiot, he really thought that was gonna solve these issues? He truly forgot what humans were like.
“If you stop smacking my back, I will take you somewhere for a bit and we won’t have to go back to the manor right away.” That seemed to calm Y/N down, only for her to question him.
“What..do you mean?” Her arms came at a rest on his back as she turned to look at the back of his head. Only for him to set the girl down.
“Ateez owns a few regular businesses, so I’m gonna take you to one, maybe get you some ice cream. How does that sound?” Wooyoung tried to console her, reaching to wipe away stray tears. His polished nails caught her eye. Another beautiful trait of his.
“Okay.. that actually sounds good.” Y/N did truly miss her everyday things, maybe ice cream could numb the pain for a moment.
She hoped so.
—
The parlor was near empty, not many patrons but the ones that were there kind of spooked her.
The parlor was bright in color on the inside, just a few tables and one employee around. That person even scared her. They were covered in tattoos from the neck down as far as she could tell. Why would anyone get ice cream here? Why would a mafia own an ice cream shop to begin with?
“Hello, Mr. Jung, it’s good to see you.” The employee behind the counter smiled, immediately greeting Wooyoung, “Are you getting your usual today?” They were quick to start scooping a green ice cream, presumably either mint or pistachio.
“No, actually I’m here to get something for Miss Y/N, think you can whip up some fresh ice cream?” Wooyoung walked the girl to the counter, her head hung low however.
“Yes sir, I can do that. What would you like, Miss?”
Y/N looked up, all shy like, “Um, can I have neopolitan?” She wasn’t sure what flavor she wanted so she went for something basic.
Once the ice cream was handed to her, Wooyoung brought her over to a corner to relax, “So, Y/N, why don’t you tell me about yourself. I can answer some questions if you’d like as well.”
Y/N picked at the melting cream, “Uh, yeah sure. What did you want to know?”
“Well, can you tell me how your father got you into this mess? Why he ran from us?” Wooyoung became serious, yet was still calm.
“I mean, my mom died a few years ago and we received her life insurance money after that. It was about two hundred thousand dollars I think.” Y/N picked at her ice cream some more before pushing it away, “I never got to see it. My dad I guess, in his grief began gambling. A weird way to cope in my opinion. But, he eventually gambled away their shared savings and her life insurance money. He’s evaded loan sharks and debt collectors for a while. I don’t know how he still has the house, it’s in poor condition anyway.”
Wooyoung continued to listen intently, taking notes.
“He eventually started stealing my savings and such, my rent money also. I have my own place and my own car but he’s still taken things from me.” She hated her father and every ounce of his being, yet she still cared, “That day you guys kidnapped me, was the day he took the last of my money I had. Then he disappeared I guess.”
“I see..” Wooyoung hummed in response, “Well, I’m sorry to say, you’re stuck with us until we find him. But don’t worry, you won’t be stuck in a cell. Well, unless you piss off Hongjoong.” Even though he tried to make her laugh, it didn’t work anyway.
“So what do you want to know about me?”
Y/N shrugged, “I’m not sure I really want to know anything. I don’t want to know things I shouldn’t and potentially be killed.”
Wooyoung laughed before he spoke, “Y/N. I’m not going to kill you. But if you have no questions then. That’s fine. Are you done with your ice cream?”
“Yeah, I am.” Even though she had barely touched it, it had already melted.
“I suppose we can head back then.”
—
“Head up to your room. I need to speak with Hongjoong.” Wooyoung ushered her away and made his way to his leader's office.
Three knocks to the wood and he walked in, “Hello captain. I’m sorry to say that we couldn’t find him in the places that we looked. However I got some more information on him.”
“Go on, Wooyoung. I don’t have all day.”
“Sorry sir. I have learned that Y/N’s father has evaded many loan sharks. Just like he has evaded us. It has me wondering if he has someone helping him. And we may need to look into it honestly.” Wooyoung didn’t like the look that appeared on Hongjoong’s face. It reminded him of something that happened in the past. Something he wasn’t ready to remember.
“He what?” A fire burned in his eyes that went deep. His fists clenched as he went to pinch the bridge of his nose, “Fine. He wants to be a coward and run from us. Little does he know he just fucked with a God.”
Wooyoung began to grin as he realized his old captain was coming back, “What are you planning for us, sir?”
“You know damn well what I have planned. Grab Yunho, I’m gonna need him to prepare a few things, notify Seonghwa as well. I’m gonna need him too. It’s time this fucker pays for abandoning a beauty and fucking with me.”
Y/N’s father had no idea just who he screwed over.
𓇼 𝘈𝘵𝘦𝘦𝘻 𝘍𝘪𝘤 𝘙𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘌𝘱.𝘛𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘦! 𓇼 𓆞 𝘔𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘴 𓆞 𓇼 𝘔𝘪𝘯𝘰𝘳𝘴/𝘈𝘨𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴/𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘉𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘴 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵 𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘥 𓇼 𓇼 𝘰𝘵8/𝘮𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘪𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘴 𓇼 𓆞 2 seater - @mingi-s-dimples yungi x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓆞 Ateez After A Concert - @mingwrites ot8 x reader (scenarios) 𓆞 𓆞 Ateez reacting to Jongho being a “grown man” - @atinydise ot8 x reader (reactions) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Ateez Texts When You Went To Another Idol's Concert - @jjoongstar ot8 x reader (texts) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Between Two Hearts - @call-of-daydreams bf!sugar daddy!jongho x reader x bf!sugar daddy!mingi (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸
𓇼 𝘬𝘪𝘮 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘫𝘰𝘰𝘯𝘨 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 [ 02.18 ] - @yizhou-time prince!hongjoong x princess!reader (timestamp) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 12:30 - @atinyslittleworld idol!hongjoong x reader (timestamp) 𓆞 𓆞 After Hours - @jjoongstar bf!hongjoong x gf!reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Back Off, I'm Married! - @solaris-amethyst non-idol!hongjoong x gn!reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Both Pretty - @skzdust bf!hongjoong x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓇼 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘴𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘩𝘸𝘢 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 A Day Of Sunshine - @mybelovedwoo non-idol!seonghwa x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Away With The Wind - @seongwars dragon rider!seonghwa x ex-dragon rider!reader (series) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Biggest Flex - @daceydeath mafia!seonghwa x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓆞 Bite Me [Part One] [Part Two] - @atzloverr bf!vampire!seonghwa x reader (two-parts) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Cravings - @dancinglikebutterflywings husband!seonghwa x pregnant!reader (drabble) 𓈒𓏸 𓇼 𝘫𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘶𝘯𝘩𝘰 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 3:11 pm - @twilightzoneletters bf!yunho x reader (timestamp) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 A Curve Ball From The Past - @kpopcafeeee baseball star!dad!yunho x mom!reader (series) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 All Of The Girls You Loved Before - @evandsolo bf!yunho x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Bookshop And Bourbon - @ja3hwa mafia!yunho x librarian!reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓆞 Crave Me - @mingi-s-dimples bf!ceo!yunho x gf!model!reader (one-shot) 𓆞
𓇼 𝘬𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘦𝘰𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘨 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 A Lot Like Love - @melodyanqe1 prince!yeosang x florist!reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 A Warm Heart - @jjoongstar statue!yeosang x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Cubicles - @/aflairforthejaz non-idol!yeosang x reader (drabble) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Cured - @acupoftaewithsomesuga doctor!yeosang x nurse!reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Divination - @daemour crown prince!yeosang x maid!reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓇼 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘪 𝘴𝘢𝘯 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 [3:00 PM] - @edenesth dad!san x mom!reader (timestamp) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 23:11 - @iannmin idol!san x idol!reader (timestamp) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 3:32 am - @/iannmin idol!san x idol!reader (timestamp) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 A Smile From Me To You - @yourlocaljonghoe bf!san x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 By My Side - @iannmin non-idol!san x wife!reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓇼 𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘪 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 00:00 - @iannmin newlywed!mingi x pregnant!reader (timestamp) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 B.A.S - @desirehorizon non-idol!mingi x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓆞 Brother - @hanjisungs-bigtittyg0thgf best friend's brother!mingi x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓆞 Dirty Little Secret | Our Dirty Little Secret - @xosannie sex worker!mingi x reader (two-parts) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Everything I Could Ever Wish For! - @makeitmingi dad!idol!mingi x mom!reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓇼 𝘫𝘶𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘰𝘰𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘨 𓇼 𓆞 4:15pm - @daceydeath idol!wooyoung x reader (timestamp) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Best Friend's Girl - @dancinglikebutterflywings best friend!wooyoung x reader ft.san (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Celebratory Fuck - @wooyoungmybelovedhusband baseball player!wooyoung x cheerleader!reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Change Up - @skrrts non-idol!wooyoung x gn!reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Colours Of You - @ae-cow non-idol!wooyoung x optometrists!reader (drabble) 𓈒𓏸 𓇼 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘪 𝘫𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘩𝘰 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 12:31 am - @minghaoslatina idol!jongho x reader (timestamp) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Far Away - @melodyanqel dad!huband!idol!jongho x mom!non-idol!wife!reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Jongho is jealous and Wooyoung is the cause because of course he is - @redzie02 bf!jongho x gn!reader ft. wooyoung (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 In My Head - @callmeagardengnome idol!jongho x music producer!bartender!reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Phone Call - @sweetiesicheng bf!jongho x reader (drabble) 𓈒𓏸
I’ve always been a sucker for angst and this is just beautiful. Words can’t describe how much I love this. The desperate search to bring back your loved one knowing it’s impossible and being told from them to let them out hurts.
Absolutely, once again never ceases to amaze me by how beautiful and amazing your writing is <3
💫Did I even deserve you?💫
✨Pairing: Vampire!Seonghwa x dead!gn!reader ✨Prompt: Vampire Seonghwa is still miserable many decades after losing his soulmate. ✨Word Count: 3.4k ✨Genre: angst, vampire au, soulmate au 🌙Warnings: talks of death, reader is mentioned but not alive in this story, no use of y/n, mentions of Seonghwa not feeding for a long period of time, lost of a loved one, mentions of how he wishes he wasn't on this earth anymore, grief, ghosts, let me know if I missed any warnings! ☀️️Authors note: Got this idea into my head and wanted to explore writing angst in this setting. It is very different from what I usually write and I have worked hard on this one and I am quite pleased with the outcome.
The moon was high up in the sky, illuminating the forest in a light wash of grey. Highlighting the fog that is developing the forest and the castle making it look eerie and abandoned. Cobwebs dancing around windows and moss climbing up the bricks together with the roses that are climbing parts of the castle.
Both beautiful and dangerous.
It was said that sometimes you could see ghosts walking past the windows. Some even claimed to have seen a ghost in the rose garden. Walking around and calling out for their beloved but no response.
Young children were warned not to go there. It was dangerous and better to stay away from a place that would most likely fall in a few decades. The road to the castle was brittled with rocks, thick trees and bushes.
It was not a pleasant road.
Despite that there was a lone figure hiking their way up to the castle, dressed in a black robe. The figure was walking very slowly as if every step towards the castle was painful, making him hurt deeply. Despite that, he continued on with heavy footsteps to the one place he called home.
The owl up in the tree hooted familiarly once he was spotted and the howls of wolves could be heard throughout the forest. None of this bothered the man, for he knew that no one would dare to try and hurt him. A man of the night, a bloodthirsty bloodsucker as the humans once had called people like him.
Now he and his family were nothing more than a mere legend.
A myth.
Something humans wrote stories about without believing they actually existed. Sometimes the man wishes he no longer existed in this world.
It would be easier than walking around the world knowing your fated one was no longer walking this earth.
Unfortunately he was doomed to walk this cruel earth until the end of time as it was now.
The closer he got to his home the more dread and sorrow filled his entire being. He used to be filled with such happiness coming back here but now that was all gone.
The grand doors to the castle opened welcoming, sensing one of its masters returning home. The candles lighting up as he entered the hallway and walked down towards the place where he knew his brothers were residing.
They were expecting him after all. Like they do every year around this time when he gets back from his three month search around the world for anyone who could help him bring back his fated one to life.
And like every year he came back unsuccessful.
It was as if the world was taunting him. Taunting him for not being careful enough. For not appreciating what he had and for being arrogant thinking he could best fate and death because of who he was.
Seonghwa
Your voice.
He stopped what he was doing. Only the wind was blowing in from an opened window. The figure looked around carefully, not making much movements, for us mortals it would have looked like he was completely still.
He shook his head gently. It must have been the wind. It cannot have been your voice he heard.
You are no longer here he told himself as he continued his walk towards the room his brothers were in. He could not have heard your voice whisper his name in the wind. You were dead, no longer walking this earth and it felt like his heart was breaking into thousands of pieces every single day when he remembers that.
He remembers your smile, your laughter, your kindness. Everything that he once took for granted he now misses with such intensity that he does not know what to do with himself. It is like the joy he once had is now gone, sucked out of his body leaving behind a cold empty shell.
He starts walking again. He knows his brothers have heard him arrive and he knows that they are waiting for him. The closer he gets the more he can hear them. Shuffling around in the living room, living their normal lives.
Not stricken by grief.
The doors open once again welcoming, just like the front doors to one of its masters returning home and the noise dies down as he steps inside looking around at his family. They are all there. The first ones he notices are the two brunettes sitting together on the sofa. Yunho, Yeosang. Then he sees the them, San, Wooyoung. The latter holding a large book, open on some random page that they seemed to have been discussing before he arrived. He searched for the youngest of his brothers who he found standing next to the tall blond man near the table. Jongho. Mingi. He counted them in his head, he looked around, searching for the leader of his coven. He found him, standing near the big window gazing out into the garden. Hongjoong.
A part of him felt a little better after doing the count. For some reason he had worried they would not all be here when he came back despite the fact that they were always there. No doubt. They would always be here to welcome him home after his long journey.
The blond at the window turned around and when their eyes met he gave him a smile.
"Welcome home Seonghwa. We have missed you." He said taking a few short steps forward to greet him. Taking him into an embrace which he returned.
"I am glad to be back." Seonghwa replied even if it was only half the truth. He was glad to be back seeing his brothers but in reality he was not overly pleased being back without a solution to his suffering.
"How was your journey around the world? Did you find what you were searching for?" Hongjoong questioned even though Seonghwa suspected he already knew the answer to that just like the rest in the room listening in on their conversation.
"Unfortunately I have yet to find someone or something that could help me bring back my loved one." He told him, his shoulders slumping forward. He tried to put on a neutral face but Hongjoong was smart, he could see through his facade quicker than anyone else in their coven. His eyes had shown a glimt of understanding as he nodded carefully.
"You look awful, have you been feeding at all when you have journeyed???" Wooyoungs voice pierced through the air, clearly targeted at him and he could only shrug his shoulders opting not to look at the younger vampire.
"I do not feel hungry anymore Wooyoung." Was the only thing he could give as a response and if he had not already been dead the look Wooyoung sent him would have put him 5 feet under the ground as they spoke.
"You have to feed Seonghwa. It is not healthily to avoid feeding for as long as you have! Lat time I saw you feed was three months ago before you left!" Wooyoung stalked towards him "Are you telling me you have not feed in three months??"
They stared at each other for a long while. He knew all of them already knew the answer. It was the same every year and like every year before this year Wooyoung always grew furious when he figured that he had been neglecting his own health.
Again.
He could feel the energy around him tense up. The others were clearly not happy at all with this and yet despite that Seonghwa could not get himself to care about it. Had it been the other way around he would have been furious, furious at his brothers for ignoring their health and not eating but since it was him and not them he found himself often not caring. He would rather wallow in his grief, allowing the ugly feelings tormenting him to come to the surface in various ways.
"How is my beloved? Are they still safe in their casket?" He asked, voice cracking at the word beloved.
The very thought of you not being there or the possibility of something happening to you whilst he was gone was terrifying to him and he had to fight hard to stop the tears wanting to well up in his eyes.
Wooyoungs furious eyes soften instantly when he had asked the question and the other looked at him with sympathy. Yunho nodded confirming that you were still safe, still protected in the garden he had grown just for you.
"They are safe Seonghwa. We have made sure nothing could harm them whilst you were away." San said, giving him that kind smile only San could give someone when they needed it the most. Seonghwa felt like he could see the stars in his brothers eyes at that moment and it never failed to amaze him how much love and adoration could be seen in Sans eyes and how it was always something very real. It never faded or changed no matter how many decades had passed and right now he was thankful for it.
For the love and compassion his brothers were showing him.
"Why do you not sit down? Tell us about your journey? What has changed in the world since last time you went outside?" Hongjoong questioned whilst leading him over to the big chair, gently guiding him to eventually sit down in it. A blanket was placed over him, Mingi moving with utmost care to wrap it around him to keep him warm. He almost let words of protests out until he saw the worry in his eyes.
"Your beloved would not want you neglecting yourself like this." Was all he said with a low rumble before standing up and walking over to Jongho.
That stung.
His heart ached at the comment Mingi had said. Everyone had heard it. It was impossible for them not to hear him. They just pretended like nothing had been said but he knew they were silently agreeing with him. Agreeing with the statement that you, his beloved, who no longer walked this earth, would not want him to neglect himself and his health.
He wants to respond. To deny what Mingi has said. He has rationalized in his head that you would be okay with what he is doing so he can bring you back and the two of you can live together again like you did before.
The rest of his coven sits down all looking at him with curious eyes. Waiting for him to start telling them about his journey.
"It is all the same. Nothing has really changed in the outside world. We are still myths and legends. The only thing that has changed amongst humans is their greed. I would say they have become even greedier and distrusting than before."
"Humans have always been greedy and distrusting Seonghwa." Hongjoong cut him off before sending an apologetic look when he glared at his coven leader.
"I would say they are even more so now than before. I searched through every country on this bloody earth and I found no one. No one who could help me bring my beloved back. The sights I saw when wandering should have taken my breath away but all it did was make me angry. Furious that they were not next to me witnessing it all. At one point on a cliff looking out at the ocean I screamed. I cursed everything living and dead that day. I was so angry and I still am." Seonghwa spoke, his hands fiddling with the blanket as his eyes darken in anger.
His brothers look at each other in worry. They had hoped after many decade that Seonghwas fury and anger would dwindle down but it only seemed to grow with each year. Wooyoung looked at his older brother and friend in sorrow, he had been close to you, Seonghwas beloved, when you were still living and breathing. He understood the pain and anger Seonghwa was feeling but he also knew that you would not wish this upon anyone. Once having confided in him that you would want them to move forward to be happy, not to forget but to eventually come to cherish what had been rather than constantly living in the past thinking of what you could have done together if only things had gone differently.
"And I-" Seonghwa started but stopped once he heard it again.
Seonghwa.
He looked around. He swore he had heard your voice again. This time it could not have been the wind for no window was open.
"Hwa? What is wrong?" Yunhos voice brought him back from his thoughts as he turned to look at him.
"Y-you did not hear that?"
"Hear what?"
"Nothing." He shakes his head "It was nothing."
"Perhaps you should go and rest?" Yeosang chimed in and the others agreed, nodding their heads.
Seonghwa looked at them before glancing around again, he was sure he heard you but now since none other than him seems to have heard you he wonders if some rest would actually help him.
So he nods and he can see the other's shoulders drop down in relaxation as if they had been expecting him to put up a fight and argue with them about resting.
"Perhaps I should... but I would like to go see them first." He feels stupid, like a child asking for permission to do something when he is the oldest in the coven. He could do whatever he wanted and if that was to go out into the rose garden and visit you then he could without permission.
He stands up before anyone can answer what he has said, he lays the blanket back on the chair before he strides towards another sets of doors which will lead him back to a corridor and down a few flight of stairs before he can enter the garden.
The doors open immediately for him and he makes a point of quietly thanking the castle for opening its doors for him. He remembers the first time he had gone out on his three month journey. When he had come back inconsolable wanting to leave that room to go see you the castle had refused. Refused to open its doors and windows for its master to go wherever he pleased.
Not until he had calmed down and only the silent tears were staining his cheeks had he been allowed out. It was after his brothers had held him close, allowing him to grieve in safety and then being given a cup of blood to drink by Wooyoung to help stabilize himself.
After that the castle had always listened to him. And now he was walking with a sense of purpose, he had to see you again. It always pains him to be away from you for three months when he spends almost every single day around you. Tending to the roses or cleaning the glass casket you lay inside whilst talking quietly to you about his days or how much he misses you.
As he walks out of the door and into the garden he stops in his tracks when he sees something or other someone walking ahead of him.
You.
He cannot stop himself before he rushes forward and just as he is to grab your hand you vanish.
"No... No no no no no!" He mumbles to himself, now sprinting towards the rose garden, you cannot be gone.
You cannot.
Seonghwa almost trips over the steps leading up to where you lay and he stops at the casket breathing heavily gripping it tightly as he takes you in.
You are still there. Untouched. Just like the way you had been when he had left three months ago.
"My beloved." He whispers and just like that the tears are welling up again in his eyes.
Seonghwa. My love.
Seonghwa gasps as he hears your voice again turning around since he can hear your voice from behind him. He had not expected to actually see you. You are pale, standing there and he notes as he falls down on his knees in shock that you are slightly transparent.
"My beloved. My love." He says while the first tear fall down his pale cheek. His voice is growing thick with emotion and when you look at him with those sad eyes he cannot help himself from crawling up to you trying to take ahold of your hand in his only to realize he is unable to.
"No. Please no. Please." He whimpers looking up at you as the waterworks starts afresh.
You have to let me go.
"No! No no no no please I cannot do that. Please I am sorry I cannot live in a world without you. Please do not leave me." He pleads over and over again trying to take ahold of you but he keeps going through you. His eyes looks almost wild as he tries everything to be able to hold you.
You can see how his heart breaks over and over at not being able to hold you and you know you cannot be visible for much longer.
I love you.
When Seonghwa notices that you are disappearing from his view is when he goes into hysterics. He wails for you to come back to him, he screams in fear, anger and grief and it echos loudly throughout the entire forest. He roars in anger, smashing a statue before breaking down again near the casket. Sobbing over and over again that he is sorry, that he wishes you would come back to him. He asks for death to take him once and for all so he can reunite with you.
He grips his head as he cries, wails and screams in fury and sadness. It is like an explosion he cannot control. Seonghwa is unsure of how much time has passed but he finds that he does not care. All he cares about is that he saw you and he could not hold you one last time like he wished he could. He contemplates for a moment to destroy your casket just so he could hold you in his arms again but he physically cannot make that move.
He cannot destroy your last sleeping place. That would be like spitting on your entire existence if he did, so he finds himself hurting himself and the statues and rose bushes around himself in a fit of anger.
Up in the castle seven figures are looking out of the window from the room they still were in. Hearing Seonghwas wails of agony and grief pained them. It was as if someone was driving a spear into their non-beating heart over and over again.
"I wish I could take away all is pain and suffering. All this grief." Jongho mumbles before leaning close to Hongjoong, hiding his face in the crook of his leaders neck as said man brings an arm around him to bring comfort.
"I never want to find my soulmate... It will only bring even more anguish to him. He will constantly be reminded of his own soulmate who he no longer has. I do not want to make him go through that." San says, tears building up in his eyes.
"You cannot stop it from happening San. Do not deprive yourself of the happiness of finding your soulmate because Seonghwa lost his. That is not something he would want. He would want you to be happy. You know that San." Yunho said whilst giving the younger a sad smile, tears also in his eyes as Seonghwa continues to scream and wail out apologies, curse words and asking for you to come back to him.
"Grief... What is not grief if not love persevering. It is proof of how much he has loved and cherished his beloved. He was just too blind in the moment that he thought he could best death and now all these years later after death won he cannot handle it. Because he has yet to fully accept that they are gone. He has yet to accept that they are gone. It might take years until he gets over the stages of anger, denial, depression and guilt. We will be there to help him through it all. I was thinking of going with him next year so he will not be alone on his journey." Hongjoong says eyes sharply focused on the figure down below.
Eyes slightly widening when he sees something or someone behind his brother before it disappears. He could have sworn it looked like you but he must have been wrong. It was probably the tears in his eyes clouding his vision.
It could not have been you.
You were dead.
Gone.
Forever.
hongjoong being jealous of the other members being talking to reader especially yunho at the end who actively knew that hongjoong was watching. Do it again.
I love this slow build between them and I can’t wait to read more <3
When Flowers Bloom In The Dark [Chapter 10]
![When Flowers Bloom In The Dark [Chapter 10]](https://64.media.tumblr.com/95fcc62ed7ddcbf4e3345dc01a3d7469/e6b40f4c4be2eb91-31/s500x750/a0981b46d91a30675e7dd43e8a4269c9ab254e4f.png)
Genre: Romance, Mafia!AU, Violence, Angst, Slow burn
Pairing: Hongjoong x Reader (y/n)
Characters: Florist!Reader, Mafioso!Hongjoong, Mafioso!Seonghwa, Mafioso!Yunho, Mafioso!Yeosang, Mafioso!San, Mafioso!Mingi, Mafioso!Wooyoung, Mafioso!Jongho
Summary: When you appeared and wept at his mother's funeral, Hongjoong found himself wanting to find out more about you. A regular girl, who owns a flower shop in his territory and has a relationship with the mother that he hasn't spoken to in years, why hasn't he ever noticed you before?
[Warning(s): 18+ for violence, use of weapons, smoking, alcohol consumption, slight gore, gang affiliation, tattoos and character deaths. Minors DNI. This is a work of fiction and does not represent the Ateez members in real life.]
Word count: 3.3K
Chapter warning(s): Mentions of the boys' one night stands outside of the house, Mingi is flirty
Usually, Hongjoong would have been cooped up in his office the entire morning. The others were used to seeing him skip breakfast. So it was weird when they saw him sitting in the second floor lounge, going over papers.
"What's wrong with your office?" Seonghwa asked. Even he was curious as to why the captain was out here.
"There's nothing wrong with my office. I'm just sitting out here for a change of environment." Hongjoong wasn't the best at lying, especially to his best friend.
"Whatever you say..." Seonghwa wasn't convinced but he was hungry and wanted breakfast.
"Can you ask them to send me another coffee when you're down there?" Hongjoong asked. Seonghwa nodded and headed downstairs.
"Morning, hyung." Those that were having their breakfast in the dining room greeted the oldest.
"Morning. Send Hongjoong another coffee. Second floor lounge." He acknowledged the others then gave Hongjoong's order to the maid. She bowed and ran to the kitchen to make Hongjoong's coffee.
"How was Mingi's race last night? I didn't hear anything from him." Seonghwa asked Yunho. Yunho merely shrugged.
"I have no idea, I haven't heard from him either. But considering how he isn't in his room, I'm guessing he stayed out the whole night, probably to celebrate a win. You know those girls like to glue themselves to him." Yunho chuckled, taking a sip of his coffee. Seonghwa hummed and ate his breakfast.
"Mr Park, the physician is here. Shall I let him in?" The butler came in, informing Seonghwa with a bow.
"Yes, wake San and let him know then bring to doctor to his room directly." Seonghwa replied. The butler nodded and bowed before leaving the dining room.
"Was it that bad?" Jongho asked.
"The opponent last night clocked him bad. We just want to make sure there's nothing internal that's too serious." Yeosang informed.
"I've got to go, got a meeting with my contractor for the new casino. Have a nice day everyone." Wooyoung jumped up, grabbing his suit jacket off the chair and running out of the room.
"Wooyoung hyung's been so busy with the casino nearing completion." Jongho noted.
"From what I saw last time, it's coming together nicely though. San's still going through the investors that you put together for him. Everyone seems to want a stake, the two did a good job in securing the lot since it's in prime real estate." Seonghwa said.
"That's a good breakfast. Now it's time to go to work." Yunho stretched and stood up to take his leave.
"There's a car coming in. Open the gates." They all heard Hongjoong come down the stairs, announcing to the mansion staff. Turning their heads, they saw the captain jog past.
"What visitor does hyung have?" Yeosang asked. Seonghwa shrugged but did look at the door way curiously.
"(y/n)! You're here." Hongjoong greeted you at the door.
"Hongjoong, good morning." You bowed. Honestly, you were still trying to keep your shock and awe to a minimum upon seeing this place, it was huge.
"Your drive way is very long. Luckily I took a cab or else I would have had to walk." You chuckled.
"Ah, sorry about that. I should have told you. But anyway, I would have gone to pick you or send a car over." Hongjoong said.
"I'm just kidding. It's no worries at all." You removed your shoes. Hongjoong walked before you, leading you further into the house. The maids and butlers that crossed your paths bowed to you and Hongjoong. It was awkward for you so you just bowed back, compared to Hongjoong who just continued ahead.
"(y/n) sshi, you're our new gardener?" Yunho's eyebrows raised in surprise as he greeted you, as if this was the first time he knew that you were going to be the gardener.
"Temporarily. I overheard Hongjoong needing one so I offered my help." You explained.
"Ah, I see. I guess it's good to know our garden is in the safe hands of an expert." Yunho complimented.
"I'm not an expert but thank you for thinking so highly of me." You smiled kindly. Hongjoong cast a slightly suspicious look at you then at Yunho, then back to you.
"So, the garden is this way." Hongjoong intercepted. You hummed and followed him out the glass doors to the back garden.
"Wow... It looks even better in person." You gasped.
"All the work of the landscaper when we got here and all the other gardeners that have worked here. I'll be honest, none of us here are really good with plants. It's just nice to look at so we decided to keep it and maintain it." Hongjoong rubbed the back of his neck.
"Ah, I see. I'll take note of that." You chuckled.
"Also, if you need anything, any extra tools or equipment, go ahead and get them. We'll reimburse you, you shouldn't pay out of your own pocket." Hongjoong smiled a little.
"Thank you. I'll just survey the garden now." You bowed your head awkwardly and stepped up.
"Isn't that..." Jongho tilted his head.
"Mhmm." Yunho nodded as they all gathered there, keeping their distance but still observing you and Hongjoong in the back garden. Seonghwa remained indifferent.
"You did this... Didn't you?" Seonghwa looked up at the tallest. Yunho merely shrugged in response but his smile was enough of a reply.
"Is it okay for her to be here?" Yeosang asked. No one replied to that, Seonghwa was too busy analysing.
When you looked up from where you were observing the plants, you looked behind Hongjoong to see his 4 friends or brothers standing there, staring at the two of you. Suddenly, you became so self aware and self conscious. Hongjoong followed your line of sight and turned around to see the 4 there.
"I'm good on my own, Hongjoong. If you're needed somewhere else..." You cleared your throat. Hongjoong nodded stiffly, realising he was just standing there with nothing much to add anyway.
"If you need anything, just let me know. Or let any of the staff know." He said. You hummed and watched as he headed back in.
"What are you guys doing?" Hongjoong asked.
"I should be asking you that. Since when were you close enough to her to ask her to be our gardener?" Seonghwa raised a questioning eyebrow. Hongjoong shrugged.
"We're not close. She overheard that we needed a new gardener and volunteered to help temporarily." Hongjoong explained.
"Oh, she overheard coincidentally?" Seonghwa shot Yunho a look, who looked away innocently.
"What?" Hongjoong blinked in confusion.
"Nothing. Just... be smart about this. Inform the others about her being here. I don't want to imagine what will happen to her if she sees us drag a corpse out there or something." Seonghwa said. Everyone nodded and Seonghwa went up to his office.
"Is this why you were working outside today, hyung? Waiting for her arrival?" Jongho nudged the captain. Hongjoong shot Jongho a dirty look and pushed his arm away.
"Of course not. I just needed more breathing space. My office was getting too stuffy." Hongjoong said.
"Sure..."
"Don't you all have work to do?" Hongjoong barked.
"Alright, alright. Geez, hyung. No need to shout." Yunho winced and covered his ears. They didn't realise that you were looking at them the entire time.
"They're an odd bunch." You noted to yourself as you inspected the plants in the plots.
"So are you going to be working outside the whole day, hyung?" Yeosang asked. Hongjoong glared at them and they all scurried away.
"Listen, if she needs anything, get it for her. Drinks, snacks, whatever, you understand?" Hongjoong turned to the butler. The butler nodded and bowed respectfully as Hongjoong went back upstairs. He gathered the files and papers that he had left in the lounge and returned back to his office.
With his coffee in his hand, he pulled back the curtains behind his chair, letting in all the light from the big window. And Hongjoong's eyes immediately found you.
"She's something else." He says to himself as he sees you used your fingers to dig through the soil.
All the other girls he has come across never liked getting their hands dirty but you so enthusiastically touched the dirt with bare hands.
"These two should not be planted next to each other." You noted, looking at the herb garden that was there. You assumed that it was for those that cooked on the estate.
"No wonder you're dying." You pouted a little, talking to the plant as you touched the wilting leaf.
"Miss, please help yourself to some refreshments and snacks. If you need anything else, please do not hesitate to let us know." A butler came out with a tray of items and a small, foldable table tucked under his arm.
"Thank you! Let me help you." You rushed over to help him unfold the lawn table he had with him. He seemed surprised that you had dropped what you were doing and came over to help him.
"Oh, miss. Don't worry, I can handle it." He bowed repeatedly but you took the tray from him politely.
"It's okay." You giggled and put the tray down on the table.
"Thank you so much, miss." He bowed deeply and poured the drink from the job into the glass for you. You smiled and received the glass, taking a sip.
"Ah, wait. There is something. Do you know if anyone uses the herb garden out here?" You asked him before he left.
"I'm not sure. Let me check with the kitchen." He said and went back into the house.
"So there is a kitchen crew here." You mumbled to yourself. You sipped the cold, fruit tea that was prepared. It was very delicious and refreshing while standing out in the sun.
"Miss, I have asked and the chef said that he used to take from the herb garden but lately, the herbs have not been in very good condition and they are not as fragrant as before so he has not been havesting." The butler came out, informing you. You nodded with a hum and thanked him.
"Looks like we have to repot and add some new plants while I try to revive these other ones." You said to yourself, making a mental note.
"So, how bad is it?" A voice came behind you. You straightened up and turned around to see one of men there. You didn't recognise him or knew his name.
"Hello. Nice to meet you. It's not that bad, just need to move the plants around." You bowed respectfully.
"That's good to hear. My name is Seonghwa. (y/n), right?" He tilted his head.
"Yes. Nice to meet you, Seonghwa sshi." You awkwardly bowed again. He exuded so much confidence and power, plus he was so elegantly beautiful, you couldn't take your eyes off him.
"Thank you for helping us. Hongjoong said you volunteered to be our gardener." Seonghwa said.
"Oh, no need to thank. Any chance to work with plants in such a big garden." You shook your head. Maybe you didn't know him but there was an intimidating aura around him. Seonghwa was purposely trying to psych you out.
Just in case you had any ulterior motive in being here and getting close to Hongjoong. He didn't know that Hongjoong was the one constantly seeking you out.
"Do you need anything so far?" Seonghwa asked.
"Not at the moment. I didn't bring my tools with me but I will the next time. Hopefully to revive the herb garden." You said.
"What is Hwa doing?" Hongjoong's eyes widened when he turned to the window and saw Seonghwa standing there, talking to you. You were shifting on your feet, looking a little frightened.
"What's a pretty girl doing out here?" A deep voice appeared. Mingi stood there, a smirk on his face.
"No, Mingi ah. No." Seonghwa shook his head. Mingi obviously didn't recognise you from Hongjoong's mother's funeral.
"Selfish." Mingi scoffed but obeyed and headed into the house. Seonghwa sighed and shook his head. Having seen Mingi come, Hongjoong had raced down. Mingi was one of the ones that liked to get flirty with girls. For some reason, he didn't like the idea of Mingi trying to flirt with you.
"Was that Mingi?" Hongjoong lied and acted nonchalant, trying to hide the fact that he was panting from how fast he ran down the stairs. You blinked in confusion at his behaviour.
"Yes, why? He just got home." Seonghwa raised a questioning eyebrow.
"I... Uh, needed to ask him something... So, (y/n), how's the garden?" Hongjoong changed the subject.
"It's alright. My plan is to revive the herb garden and some stuff need to be moved around, they shouldn't be grown together. And some of them are planted in the wrong soil." You explained.
"I guess the gardener before you wasn't as good as we thought." Hongjoong joked.
"They're common mistakes, I guess." You chuckled.
"Didn't you have to find Mingi?" Seonghwa cleared his throat as he reminded Hongjoong. Hongjoong nodded stiffly, giving Seonghwa a suspicious glance.
"See you later, (y/n)." Hongjoong said. You waved as he went back into the house. Seonghwa didn't stay too long too since you just went back to what you were doing. Honestly, it was awkward to have any conversation with him so you focussed on the plants.
"Mingi ah. You don't recognise her?" Hongjoong asked. Mingi shook his head, a look of confusion on his face.
"She's the girl that was at my mother's funeral... The one that knew her..." Hongjoong reminded.
"Oh! Oh... I didn't recognise her. I've only seen her like once, hyung. I barely remember all the girls that hang with us." Mingi shrugged. Hongjoong facepalmed.
"Whatever but no flirting, okay? She's here to be our temporary gardener, that's all." Hongjoong lectured.
"Yeah, yeah, captain. I get it, she's off limits." Mingi waved him off.
"I was going to tell everyone about her being here and working in the house tonight but I guess I should tell everyone now." Hongjoong sighed and took his phone out to send a text to the group.
"And Mingi, no weapons, no blood, nothing of that sort on the days she's here." Hongjoong said.
"Yes, captain." Mingi saluted and went to the kitchen to find some food since he was a little hungover from partying all night.
"The doctor's done with San." Seonghwa came and informed Hongjoong. The captain nodded and headed upstairs with his second in command to check on their brother. Seonghwa knocked on San's door lightly before the two of them entered. San was against the headboard, with an annoyed look on his face.
"Oh, hyungs. It's the two of you. I thought it was that annoying doctor again." San rolled his eyes, reading documents on his iPad. Seonghwa shook his head.
"He was just telling you to get bed rest, San ah. Yeosang said you went down bad last night." Seonghwa said.
"I'm fine. It's just some minor injuries, it's normal. I don't need bed rest." San shrugged.
"Just listen to the doctor, San. No fighting for a bit. In the mean time, help Wooyoung out with the casino stuff." Hongjoong instructed. San was going to protest but decided against it.
"Fine." He slumped.
"At least until you've recovered. Oversee things as the owner, just don't participate." Seonghwa told him.
"Easy for you to say, hyung. You get into a motorcycle crash and still continue racing." San glared. Seonghwa's eyes widened but San knew what he was doing.
"You what?" Hongjoong asked. Seonghwa muttered a curse and shot San the stink eye before slowly turning to see Hongjoong there, with his hands on his hips and a disappointed frown on his face. San smiled victoriously, he wasn't going down on his own.
"It wasn't a major crash." Seonghwa sighed.
"Still a crash, nonetheless Hwa! How could you continued racing?" Hongjoong scolded. Seonghwa rolled his eyes and held Hongjoong's shoulder, pushing him out of the room.
"Hongjoong, don't overreact. It was a minor thing. No serious injuries." Seonghwa said.
"Still, you should tell me if you get hurt." Hongjoong said.
"I will, I will. Now please get back to work. I don't want to find you loitering in the garden." Seonghwa teased. Hongjoong squinted his eyes at Seonghwa.
"Don't even go there." He warned and walked back to his office to do work.
If Hongjoong was worried about you, he could just periodically check in on you from his office window. No, not creepy at all.
"Luckily I have my spade at least." You sighed in relief as you dug through the soil to uproot one of the plants. You felt bad for creating such a mess and getting the soil onto the pavement. But you needed to move the plants, you would have to help them clean up the pavements later when you're done.
"There you go. Welcome to your new home." You smiled as you placed the plant into the new hole you dug, shovelling the soil over the roots and lightly packing it down.
"Excuse me, where's the bathroom?" You entered the house.
"Let me take you, miss." The maid bowed and led you down one of the hallways. She opened the bathroom door for you.
"Thanks." You smiled and entered. The first thing you did was wash your hands thoroghly, not wanting to drop any dirt or soil on the ground of the house.
When you were done with the bathroom, you stepped out and almost bumped into someone.
"I'm so sorry!" You exclaimed and bowed repeatedly. The man shot you an odd look. He was covered in injuries.
"It's fine." He mumbled and walked past you, continuing on his way. Even if you didn't know him, it was concerning to see someone so badly hurt. Was he in a fight? Or did he get beaten up?
"Miss, do you need help getting back to the garden?" A maid came up to you when she saw you standing there in the hallway. You lied and nodded your head. With a small smile, she led you back to where the backyard was.
"Thanks." You smiled gratefully and went back to the area you were initially working on.
"Yunho sshi?" You blinked, seeing him stand there, looking at the hole in the soil that you had dug up previously.
"Why are you digging holes?" He asked.
"Some of the plants are in the wrong soil or shouldn't be grown next to each other so I'm trying to move them. I can't do it all today but I'll start plot by plot." You explained.
"Isn't all soil the same? It's dirt." He stated. There was such a confused look on his face as he tilted his head at you.
"A lot of people think all soil is the same, just dirt. But there are different nutrition levels, the way they retain water, all that differs from soil to soil. Even how they pack around the roots." You giggled.
"Oh... If all the soil here is the same, our gardeners before you must really suck." Yunho clicked his tongue.
"Hongjoong said the same thing earlier too but all I can say is, being a gardener isn't as easy as it seems." You shrugged.
"You're too humble, (y/n)." Yunho smiled charmingly. The two of you burst out laughing. You were unaware that Yunho sent a small wave to someone who was watching your entire interaction from his office window.
~
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some secrets you say? 👀
| 𝒮𝑒𝓁𝒻𝒾𝓈𝒽 𝐿𝑜𝓋𝑒 | Chapter Three
Ot8!Mafia!Ateez x Female!Reader
Summary: After losing everything through gambling, your father's debts to the Ateez Mafia have resulted in you becoming their property. With no other family left, you are now at the mercy of these dangerous criminals due to your father's reckless actions.
Warnings: None (If I forgot any, don’t be afraid to tell me!)
Amazing Tags: @n0v4t33z @potatomountain for the inspiration
WC: 2k
Nets: @othersideoutlawsnetwork
Tags: @xomakara @jedi-dreea @beabatiny @ateezaddict24 @spenceatiny18 @18fernanda @prodsh00ky @evercodeee @yizhou-time @smally97 @eshia-16 @daniela-f-uwu u @peachyy-joonie @butterfliesinthenightsky @dassmyname @unlikelysublimekryptonite @dollinno @stay-tiny-things @joongscheese @misskarynie @monstacheol @yeosangcutie0615 @mariaa @pinuspot @amphiroxx @kitten4sannie (MOTIVATION THANK YOU) tags to be continued.
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NO LONGER DOING TAGS AFTER THIS CHAPTER, follow if you want to be notified.
Days had passed since Y/N was captured. Each day felt like a year being passed, it was agonizing. She wasn’t allowed to leave her room since she tried to escape her first day. She had visitors, mainly Hongjoong. Who she’s come to slowly trust but was still afraid of him.
Hongjoong was a nice man, genuinely. His exterior was soft and he behaved tough with his members but he took care of Y/N so well. He’d brush her hair, calm her down if she had a breakdown.
Just as he was doing now.
“Sh, sh, beautiful. Don’t waste those tears on that beautiful face of yours.” Hongjoong’s fingers were quick to wipe away her tears, “I know you don’t want to be here but it has to be this way. We don’t play about our money. Or being backstabbed.”
Y/N looked at him with tear stained eyes, “I know..I’m just, I’m just scared, Mr Hongjoong. Your people scare me.”
He let out a small chortle, “Oh, beautiful.” A small tut left his mouth, “My men are ruthless, I trained them to be that way but I did however, tell them to treat you gently. Cannot allow our only leverage to be damaged.” No one would believe the amount of times their leverage was killed and they never got their revenge. Or money.
That was Wooyoung's fault last time. He was of course punished accordingly in more ways than one (he liked his punishment so it was useless in the end.)
The tired girl nodded as she let Hongjoong pull her close, his embrace was warm and inviting.
“Come now, let’s get you some food.”
Y/N allowed him to gently walk her down the hallway and down a lavish staircase. It led into what she assumed was the grand entrance, but it was heavily guarded and maids were fluttering around, cleaning every corner.
“Kitchen is this way. However I’d advise you not to touch anything until I tell you so. Wooyoung is particular about his kitchen.” Hongjoong pressed his hand against her lower back as he ushered her into the said room.
“Hongjoong is that you?” A voice called out followed by clattering dishes.
“Yeah it’s me, come here, Woo. Want you to meet someone.” With those words, Wooyoung set down his dish and turned around.
A beautiful man was revealed. Was everyone in this house so strikingly handsome? Wooyoung grinned at the newcomer, thoughts already plaguing his mind, “Mm, is this the pretty girl I’ve heard so much about?”
Y/N looked away, all flustered, not used to such compliments or this many at all.
“Wooyoung. Don’t. But yes, this is the shitheads daughter. She’s our leverage till he comes out of hiding.” Hongjoong’s voice only had a moment of authority, shortly returning to a softer tone.
“Oh, okay, well. Can we keep her?” Wooyoung grinned and stepped closer, quickly pushing his leader's buttons.
Y/N stepped behind Hongjoong to avoid the gaze of the man. She wasn’t afraid but his grin was quite compelling, as if to lead her into seduction. It was definitely working. His long hair was stunning and his nose, so damn majestic.
Hongjoong could hear her every thought and he couldn’t help but shake his head, “I swear, between the two of you- you know what, never mind. Anyway, Wooyoung. I have a job for you.”
Wooyoung immediately turned serious, “Yes, sir?”
“I need you to find out more about her father. We need to pinpoint secret hiding locations. Places he’d think we’d never check. If you can, take Y/N to the city and have her show you places. But don’t let her out of your eyesight,” Hongjoong then stepped forward and grabbed Wooyoung’s shoulder, “and don’t do anything stupid. Don’t even try to flirt your way into her pants.”
“Fine, captain.”
“Good, now get ready to go. I have an arms dealer to meet with.” Hongjoong quickly left Y/N to Wooyoung’s devices.
Oh boy, this was gonna be a train wreck.
—
“Ah, ah, slow down little Princess. I was told to keep an eye on you.” Wooyoung scoffed as he tried to chase after the girl. She wasn’t trying to escape, no, she was trying to find her father so she didn’t have to go back.
As she swung the corner to a deli, eagerly looking inside for her father. He was nowhere to be seen. Of course he wasn’t.
He always did this. He ran from his problems and even now, he abandoned his own daughter. Y/N felt lost, betrayed, heartbroken even.
Wooyoung finally caught up to her, “What are you- oh. He’s not here is he?” Wooyoung could feel her disappointment and sheer sadness. He almost felt bad but then again, you don’t fuck with ateez, “Hey, listen. This just means you get to hang out some more with me.” He tried to lighten up her mood but it only made it worse and she broke down.
Fuck fuck fuck fuck.
Wooyoung panicked and lifted her off the ground, “Shit, I’m so sorry, please do not cry.”
Y/N shoved him away but that only angered him. He was trying to be nice and help her.
“Fine, be that way but you’re still going back to the manor.” Wooyoung let her arm go and called Hongjoong, “She’s done being outside for the day, we are coming back, sir.”
Y/N protested as she was flipped onto the man’s shoulder, “Let me go!” Bystanders watched but did nothing.
They knew better not to interfere.
Y/N sobbed in defeat as she pounded onto his back, trying her damndest to get away.
Wooyoung did feel only just tad bad about treating her this way but they need her to find her father. Sure, they could just let it go but then it would set an example for others that they could get away with betraying the group. Wooyoung knew Hongjoong’s ego wouldn’t let that fly. Ever.
“Y/N, please stop flailing around. I don’t want to hurt you.” His voice was soft spoken, showing he meant his words. Wooyoung truly didn’t want to hurt her.
Wait.
He had an idea. Maybe ice cream would cheer her up.
What an idiot, he really thought that was gonna solve these issues? He truly forgot what humans were like.
“If you stop smacking my back, I will take you somewhere for a bit and we won’t have to go back to the manor right away.” That seemed to calm Y/N down, only for her to question him.
“What..do you mean?” Her arms came at a rest on his back as she turned to look at the back of his head. Only for him to set the girl down.
“Ateez owns a few regular businesses, so I’m gonna take you to one, maybe get you some ice cream. How does that sound?” Wooyoung tried to console her, reaching to wipe away stray tears. His polished nails caught her eye. Another beautiful trait of his.
“Okay.. that actually sounds good.” Y/N did truly miss her everyday things, maybe ice cream could numb the pain for a moment.
She hoped so.
—
The parlor was near empty, not many patrons but the ones that were there kind of spooked her.
The parlor was bright in color on the inside, just a few tables and one employee around. That person even scared her. They were covered in tattoos from the neck down as far as she could tell. Why would anyone get ice cream here? Why would a mafia own an ice cream shop to begin with?
“Hello, Mr. Jung, it’s good to see you.” The employee behind the counter smiled, immediately greeting Wooyoung, “Are you getting your usual today?” They were quick to start scooping a green ice cream, presumably either mint or pistachio.
“No, actually I’m here to get something for Miss Y/N, think you can whip up some fresh ice cream?” Wooyoung walked the girl to the counter, her head hung low however.
“Yes sir, I can do that. What would you like, Miss?”
Y/N looked up, all shy like, “Um, can I have neopolitan?” She wasn’t sure what flavor she wanted so she went for something basic.
Once the ice cream was handed to her, Wooyoung brought her over to a corner to relax, “So, Y/N, why don’t you tell me about yourself. I can answer some questions if you’d like as well.”
Y/N picked at the melting cream, “Uh, yeah sure. What did you want to know?”
“Well, can you tell me how your father got you into this mess? Why he ran from us?” Wooyoung became serious, yet was still calm.
“I mean, my mom died a few years ago and we received her life insurance money after that. It was about two hundred thousand dollars I think.” Y/N picked at her ice cream some more before pushing it away, “I never got to see it. My dad I guess, in his grief began gambling. A weird way to cope in my opinion. But, he eventually gambled away their shared savings and her life insurance money. He’s evaded loan sharks and debt collectors for a while. I don’t know how he still has the house, it’s in poor condition anyway.”
Wooyoung continued to listen intently, taking notes.
“He eventually started stealing my savings and such, my rent money also. I have my own place and my own car but he’s still taken things from me.” She hated her father and every ounce of his being, yet she still cared, “That day you guys kidnapped me, was the day he took the last of my money I had. Then he disappeared I guess.”
“I see..” Wooyoung hummed in response, “Well, I’m sorry to say, you’re stuck with us until we find him. But don’t worry, you won’t be stuck in a cell. Well, unless you piss off Hongjoong.” Even though he tried to make her laugh, it didn’t work anyway.
“So what do you want to know about me?”
Y/N shrugged, “I’m not sure I really want to know anything. I don’t want to know things I shouldn’t and potentially be killed.”
Wooyoung laughed before he spoke, “Y/N. I’m not going to kill you. But if you have no questions then. That’s fine. Are you done with your ice cream?”
“Yeah, I am.” Even though she had barely touched it, it had already melted.
“I suppose we can head back then.”
—
“Head up to your room. I need to speak with Hongjoong.” Wooyoung ushered her away and made his way to his leader's office.
Three knocks to the wood and he walked in, “Hello captain. I’m sorry to say that we couldn’t find him in the places that we looked. However I got some more information on him.”
“Go on, Wooyoung. I don’t have all day.”
“Sorry sir. I have learned that Y/N’s father has evaded many loan sharks. Just like he has evaded us. It has me wondering if he has someone helping him. And we may need to look into it honestly.” Wooyoung didn’t like the look that appeared on Hongjoong’s face. It reminded him of something that happened in the past. Something he wasn’t ready to remember.
“He what?” A fire burned in his eyes that went deep. His fists clenched as he went to pinch the bridge of his nose, “Fine. He wants to be a coward and run from us. Little does he know he just fucked with a God.”
Wooyoung began to grin as he realized his old captain was coming back, “What are you planning for us, sir?”
“You know damn well what I have planned. Grab Yunho, I’m gonna need him to prepare a few things, notify Seonghwa as well. I’m gonna need him too. It’s time this fucker pays for abandoning a beauty and fucking with me.”
Y/N’s father had no idea just who he screwed over.
Dude…let’s kill Mike
I’M SICK OF THIS MAN I SWEAR!
CHAPTER STARTED OFF SO CUTE WITH READER AND HONGJOONG GOING ON A DATE AND NOW I CAN FEEL IT SENSE THAT JOONG GONNA SHOW UP AT A DIFFERENT VENUE AND READER GONNA BE UPSET AHHHHHHHH
We need to kill Mike we gotta stop him i’m so serious i need reader or someone to hit him if future chapters preferably i want reader to hit him
moving on, I’m excited for the next part even thought it’s literally titled "the first breakdown" and i just know i’m gonna feel sad for reader more than I already do especially after this chapter
keep up the amazing work! <3
Popular, Boy
☆06: The first move.
Pairing: Nerd!Hongjoong x Popular!Reader
Genre: +18, slow burn, angst, smut, drama, dark academic, love triangle.
wc: 10,8k
Summary: You and Hongjoong grow closer, but in your world, trust is a dangerous thing. Mike's cruelty lingers, and in the shadows, a plan unfolds... One designed to break you.
Break your heart, and make you question everything... especially Hongjoong.
Warnings: Verbal abuse, past trauma (?), power dynamics, fluff, suggestive.
Series masterlist
☆05 ☆07: The first breakdown.
The low rumble of the engine fills the quiet evening air as you glance out the window. The car is nothing like the sleek, expensive vehicles sitting in your family’s garage. It’s modest, a little old, and the faint smell of worn leather lingers in the air.
“You borrowed this from your dad?” You ask, raising an eyebrow as you turn to Hongjoong.
He shrugs, his hands gripping the steering wheel with a mix of focus and nervousness. “Yeah. Figured it’s better than taking the bus.”
The bus? Hell no, you have never been in one and you hope it never happens.
You glance at him, a small, amused smirk playing on your lips. The whole thing is… endearing in a way you don’t expect.
“So, are you going to tell me where we’re going?” You cross your legs and adjust your pink leather jacket.
“Nope.” His lips quirk into a smile, but he keeps his eyes on the road “Just sit back and enjoy the ride, pretty.”
You roll your eyes but don’t press further. There’s something about his excitement that keeps your curiosity piqued.
When the car finally comes to a stop, you step out and immediately catch the sound of distant laughter and the faint scent of fried food in the air. Turning toward the neon-lit entrance ahead, your brows knit together.
“An amusement park?” Your voice is tinged with surprise.
Hongjoong steps around to your side, his hands in his pockets and a slightly nervous look on his face.
“You said you’d never been to one, so…” He gestures toward the brightly lit rides.
You glance down at your outfit—high heel boots, a sleek skirt, and your leather jacket—then back at him.
“And you didn’t think to mention that I might want to dress for this?”
He grins, his nervousness fading into a playful confidence “You’ll be fine. You look beautiful and you could rock a runway in a park if you wanted to.”
You shake your head, unable to suppress a smile “Fine. Lead the way.”
The ticket booth is up ahead, and you instinctively reach for your purse, already accustomed to paying for yourself—and for others. But before you can even unzip it, Hongjoong steps forward, pulling out his wallet.
“Two adults, please.” He says, handing over the cash.
You blink, momentarily stunned. People don’t usually pay for you. They just assume you’ll foot the bill, given your family’s wealth. But here Hongjoong is, without hesitation, handling everything.
“Thanks.” You say, your voice softer than usual.
He shoots you a small, reassuring smile “It’s a date, isn’t it?”
The park is alive with energy—bright lights, music, and the unmistakable hum of excitement in the air. You’re not sure what to expect, but as the night unfolds, you find yourself swept up in the moment.
Hongjoong pulls you from ride to ride, his enthusiasm contagious. You scream on the roller coasters, laugh uncontrollably on the spinning teacups, and you surprise yourself by enjoying the bumper cars, laughing uncontrollably as Hongjoong tried—and failed—to outmaneuver you.
Hongjoong made a great effort to win a small stuffed bunny at one of the carnival games, he handed it to you with a triumphant grin.
“For you,” He says, holding it out.
“Seriously?” You ask, but there is no hiding the smile that tug at your lips “It’s so tacky.”
“Tacky but adorable, just like you.” He counters with a pretty smile.
And you find yourself clutching the fluffy bunny tightly as you continue through the park.
At the snack stand, you try to insist on paying, but Hongjoong beats you to it again, handing over the cash before you can protest.
“You’re really committed to this, huh?” You tease.
He shrugs, offering you a bag of popcorn “I like treating you. You’re worth it.”
The words catch you off guard, leaving a strange warmth in their wake. You look at him, the boyish grin on his face, and wonder how he can be so… genuine.
As the day turns into evening, the park’s lights flicker on, casting a magical glow over everything. You stand in line for the carousel, the soft music adding a nostalgic charm.
You climb into one of the ornate horses, your laughter echoing as Hongjoong chooses the one beside you.
“You’re having fun, admit it.” He says, his voice filled with mock accusations.
You tilt your head, a playful smirk on your lips “Maybe a little.”
The carousel begins to move, and for a moment, you let yourself get lost in the moment. The weight of your pride, your fears, and the persona you had carefully crafted seems to fade.
It’s just you and Hongjoong, spinning in a world that feels oddly perfect.
As the evening wears on, you realize something else—you’re having fun. Real, uncomplicated fun. It’s a feeling you’re not used to, and it’s equal parts exhilarating and terrifying.
When you finally board the Ferris wheel, the city sprawls out below you, glittering in the night. The car sways gently, and Hongjoong’s arm rests casually on the back of your seat.
“You’ve been quiet,” He glances at you “What’s on your mind?”
You hesitate, your fingers toying with the hem of your jacket “I guess… I’m not used to this.”
“To what?”
“To someone doing all of this just for me.” You admit, your voice barely above a whisper.
He looks at you, his expression softening “You deserve it, pretty. All of it.”
You bite the inside of your cheek, unsure of how to respond. The gnawing doubt in the back of your mind refuses to let go.
What if this isn’t real? What if he’s just playing along, trying to climb some invisible ladder to the top?
The Ferris wheel car rocks gently as it halts at the top, giving you a perfect view of the glowing amusement park below. The world feels smaller up here, the laughter and music from the park blending into a soft hum. But your focus isn’t on the view.
Hongjoong’s hand brushes against yours, hesitant yet deliberate “YN,” He begins, his voice soft but firm, breaking the fragile silence. You turn to him, caught off guard by the serious tone in his voice “There’s something I’ve been meaning to tell you,” His eyes locking onto yours “Something I should’ve said a long time ago.”
You blink, unsure of where he’s going with this “What is it?”
He exhales deeply, running a hand through his hair “Do you remember the first time we met? On the first day of college?”
You frown slightly, trying to recall “I remember you asking me for a pen and I told you not to speak to me again and get lost.” Both of you chuckle at the memory “You were… different back then.”
He smiles faintly, though there’s a sadness to it “I was, and I remember everything about that moment. How you walked into the lecture hall like you owned the place, and every single person in the room noticed you. Including me.”
You tilt your head, curious now.
“I knew I didn’t stand a chance,” He continues, his voice quiet “You were… YN. Popular, beautiful, confident—everything I wasn’t. But I couldn’t stop thinking about you. And I guess, in some way, I thought if I could change myself, maybe you’d notice me.”
“Change yourself?” You echo, your brow furrowing.
He nods, a faint, self-deprecating chuckle escaping his lips “The clothes, the hair, trying to fit in with your world—it was all for you. Even when I begged you to make me popular, it wasn’t really about the popularity. I just wanted to be enough for you. To have a chance with you.”
His words hit you like a wave, and for a moment, you don’t know what to say.
“You hated me back then.” You murmur, though your voice lacks conviction.
“I didn’t hate you,” He says firmly, his gaze unwavering “I hated how you treated me sometimes, yeah. But I didn’t hate you. How could I, when I was in love with you?”
Your breath catches “In love with me?”
“Since that first day,” Hongjoong admits, his voice barely above a whisper “It didn’t matter that you barely knew I existed. It didn’t matter how hard it was to watch you humiliate me or use me as a punchline. I just wanted you to notice me, YN. Even if it hurts.”
A lump forms in your throat as you stare at him. His words are raw, honest, and so unlike the Kim Hongjoong you’ve grown accustomed to.
“Hongjoong…” You trail off, your voice faltering.
He shakes his head, his hand tightening around yours.
“I know how it sounds. And I get it if you don’t feel the same way. But I had to tell you. Because all of this? It’s real for me. You’re real for me.”
You feel your chest tighten, the weight of his confession pressing down on you. Part of you wants to believe him, to let yourself fall into the warmth of his feelings, but the doubts linger.
“What if…” You begin, your voice trembling “What if you’re wrong? What if this isn’t real?”
“I’m not wrong,” He says with quiet determination “And I’ll prove it to you, pretty. Every day, if I have to.”
His words stir something deep inside you, but the echoes of your brother’s voice resurface: ‘Once the thrill of the game wears off, they’ll both be exactly where they belong—crumbling.’
You bite your lip, trying to suppress the turmoil within you.
“I don’t know if I can trust this.”
Hongjoong leans closer, his eyes searching yours “You don’t have to trust it all at once. Just… let me show you. Let me prove to you that I’m not going anywhere.”
For a moment, you hesitate, your heart warring with your mind. But then, as if on instinct, you lean in and press your lips to his.
The kiss is soft at first, tentative, but then it deepens, his hands cupping your face as yours find their way to his shoulders. For a moment, the world around you disappears, leaving only the warmth of his touch and the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.
When you finally pull away, breathless and flushed, Hongjoong’s eyes are wide, his expression filled with awe.
“Does this mean that we are…?”
“It means,” You interrupt, your voice trembling but steady “That I’m giving you a chance to prove it, then we discuss what will happen. Don’t make me regret it.”
He smiles, the kind of smile that reaches his eyes and lights up his entire face.
“I won’t. I promise.”
The Ferris wheel begins to move again, but this time, as it descends, you feel lighter, the weight of your doubts momentarily lifted.
Maybe this is reckless. Maybe it’ll all fall apart. But as Hongjoong’s hand finds yours again, lacing your fingers together, you decide—for now—you’ll take the risk.
✮ ⋆
The hum of the car engine fades as Hongjoong pulls up to your family’s grand estate, its sprawling driveway illuminated by soft outdoor lighting. He steps out of the old car and quickly moves to your side, opening the door for you with a charming smile.
“Such a gentleman.”
You tease, stepping out in your heels, clutching the medium-sized plush bunny he’d won for you at the amusement park. Its soft, floppy ears brush against your arm, and for reasons you can’t quite explain, holding it makes you feel… warm.
“Well, tonight was special. You deserve the whole VIP treatment.” He quips, offering his hand to steady you.
As the two of you walk toward the front steps, the soft chill of the evening air wraps around you, but you barely notice it. The warmth of the evening lingers, and you’re not quite ready to let it go.
“I had fun tonight.” You admit, your voice softer than usual.
“Yeah?” He asks, his eyes lighting up “You’re not just saying that because I let you beat me at the ring toss, are you?”
You roll your eyes, a laugh escaping as you hug the bunny tighter.
“You didn’t let me win. I’m just naturally talented.”
Hongjoong grins, leaning slightly closer “Naturally talented, huh? I’ll remember that next time I’m getting crushed at bumper cars.”
A comfortable silence falls between you for a moment as you both reach the front door.
“Thank you, Hongjoong,” You say, turning to face him fully “For everything. I mean it.”
He scratches the back of his neck, his cheeks tinged pink under the porch light. “You don’t have to thank me. I just… I wanted you to have a good time.”
“Well, mission accomplished.” You reply, your smile lingering.
The moment feels charged, like the quiet pause before a firework explodes. Slowly, he steps closer, his gaze flickering from your eyes to your lips.
“Goodnight, pretty.” He says softly, his voice barely above a whisper.
“Goodnight, Joongie.” You reply, leaning in.
Your lips meet in a tender kiss, warm and unhurried, the kind that feels like a promise. The bunny slips slightly in your grip, but Hongjoong steadies it with a hand, his touch lingering just long enough to make your heart flutter.
When you pull back, there’s a flicker of hesitation in his eyes, as though he’s reluctant to leave.
“I’ll see you tomorrow at school.” He murmurs, his hand brushing yours one last time before he turns and walks back to his car.
You watch him drive away, the sound of the engine fading into the night. For a brief moment, you stand there, feeling lighter than you have in weeks.
The plush bunny in your arms feels oddly comforting, and you catch yourself smiling at the memory of him insisting on winning it for you. He’d been so focused, so determined, as though nothing else in the world mattered.
But the warmth is short-lived.
As you step inside, the soft click of your heels echoes in the dimly lit foyer. The house feels quiet, almost too quiet, and a sense of unease prickles at the back of your neck.
“Late night, huh?” You freeze. Mike’s voice cuts through the silence like a knife, cold and taunting.
He steps out from the shadows of the living room, his arms crossed, and an infuriatingly smug look on his face.
“So, did Prince Nerd sweep you off your feet?”
You roll your eyes, trying to keep your composure “Go to bed, Mike. You’re not my keeper.”
He chuckles, the sound low and mocking “Oh, but it’s so entertaining watching you play house with your little project.”
You glare at him, your defenses rising “He’s not a project. And you don’t know anything about him.”
Mike raises an eyebrow, stepping closer “Don’t I? Let’s see… Hongjoong, the reformed nerd. The guy who suddenly started hanging out with the queen bee… How curious, don't you think?” Your jaw tightens, but he doesn’t stop “You think that’s love, YN? Or is it desperation?"
"Face it, dear sister. He’s obsessed with you because you’re a trophy. The queen bee who gave him the time of day. Do you really think that’ll last? Once he realizes he can’t keep up, he’ll snap back to reality. And where does that leave you?”
“Stop it,” You snap, your voice shaking slightly.
But Mike only smirks “You’re scared, aren’t you? Scared that I’m right. Scared that once the shine wears off, he’ll remember who he really is—and leave you behind.”
His words sink in like claws, dragging at the fragile hope you’d started to build tonight. You open your mouth to fire back, but the lump in your throat stops you.
Mike leans in, his voice dropping to a whisper “Enjoy the fairytale while it lasts, little sister. Because when it ends, it’s going to hurt.”
Without another word, he turns and disappears into the shadows, leaving you standing there, clutching the bunny tightly to your chest.
The warmth of Hongjoong’s kiss feels like a distant memory now, overshadowed by the weight of Mike’s cruel words.
As you climb the stairs to your room, the doubts creep in, unbidden and relentless.
You set the bunny down on your bed, its soft, innocent face staring back at you as though mocking your turmoil.
Tonight was perfect. But now, you’re not so sure how long perfect can last.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
March, 2008⋆｡
You were five years old, standing in the middle of the schoolyard with a bouquet of cheap plastic flowers and a small silver medal hanging around your neck. The other kids were swarmed by their parents, showered in hugs, kisses, and congratulations.
You stood apart, your smile faltering as you scanned the crowd again and again, hoping to find a familiar face.
But your parents never came.
By the time the babysitter arrived to take you home, the festival had already ended, and the school grounds were nearly empty. You sat quietly in the car, clutching the medal tightly in your small hands, determined not to cry.
You had worked so hard for the performance, staying late after school for weeks, practicing the routine over and over. You had wanted your parents to see you, to be proud of you.
When you finally got home, the house was dark. Your parents weren’t there, of course. They had told you that morning that they might be "a little late," but you hadn’t realized it meant missing the entire festival.
The babysitter gave you a sympathetic smile before heading upstairs. You sat at the dining table, the silver medal still around your neck, as you stared at the empty chairs where your parents should’ve been.
It wasn’t until late at night that you heard the front door open. You rushed downstairs, your little heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and apprehension.
Your parents entered, followed by your eight-year-old brother, Mike, who was holding a shiny trophy in his hands.
“Look at this, first place!” Mike boasted, raising the trophy high.
“We’re so proud of you, Mike.” Your mother said, ruffling his hair.
“Mommy, Daddy,” You began hesitantly, clutching her medal “You missed my dance festival.”
Your parents glanced at you briefly, their smiles faltering for just a moment.
“Oh, honey, we’re so sorry,” Your father said, though his tone was distracted “But Mike had his soccer game today, and his team won! It was such an important match.”
“I won too. I won second place, look.” You said quietly, holding up your medal with a smile.
You looked between your parents, hoping for a flicker of pride, of recognition.
Mike snorted “Second place? That’s just the first loser, YN.”
Your cheeks burned, and your grip on the medal tightened “It’s still good,” You muttered.
The oldest exchanged a quick look before your mother knelt down in front of you.
“That's incredible, sweetie. We’re sorry we couldn’t make it. We’ll make it up to you, okay? Tomorrow, we’ll take you to the store, and you can pick out whatever you want. How does that sound?”
You nodded slowly, but the hollow ache in your chest didn’t go away. You watched as your parents returned their attention to Mike, showering him with questions about his game, reliving every goal and every cheer.
You stood there, forgotten, the silver medal in your hand feeling heavier by the second.
That night, as you lay in bed, you stared at the medal on the nightstand. You thought about the promise your parents had made, the reward they’d offered to soothe their absence.
A reward.
That’s what you were worth to them. Not their time, not their presence, but a material gift to ease their guilt.
And so, even at five years old, you learned a valuable lesson: if you couldn’t earn love, you could at least be compensated for its absence.
✮ ⋆
October, 2017⋆｡
The house was alive with music, laughter, and the clinking of glasses. Streamers in shades of purple and gold adorned the grand living room, and a three-tier cake stood proudly at the center of the dining table, surrounded by an array of delicately prepared treats.
It was your fifteenth birthday—or at least, it was supposed to be.
You stood near the large bay window, your dress a vision of elegance and sparkle, the kind your mother had insisted on getting for the occasion. But your smile was thin and forced, your eyes constantly darting to the growing crowd around Mike.
Your older brother was the center of attention, as he always seemed to be.
Earlier that evening, just as the guests began to arrive, Mike had announced to their parents that he had been accepted into the most prestigious university in the country. The news was met with exuberant cheers and immediate celebration.
Your parents’ pride radiated like the sun, casting a shadow over everything else—including you.
At first, you tried to hold onto the joy of your own milestone, but as the night wore on, the decorations, the cake, and even the guests seemed to shift their focus.
“To Mike!” Your father’s voice boomed as he raised a glass of champagne “For making us the proudest parents alive!”
A collective cheer followed, and you felt your chest tighten. You glanced at your mother, hoping for a gesture of acknowledgment, but she was too busy beaming at Mike.
The words you had rehearsed to thank everyone for coming stayed locked in your throat.
“It’s okay…” You told yourself, gripping the edges of the dress to steady your trembling hands.
As the hours passed, your birthday transformed into an impromptu celebration for Mike’s achievement. Relatives and family friends crowded around him, offering their congratulations. The gifts that were meant for you sat unopened on a side table, forgotten.
Later that night, after most of the guests had left, you found yourself alone in the kitchen, picking at the remains of the untouched birthday cake. Your parents walked in, their faces still glowing with pride.
“Darling,” Your father said, noticing your somber expression “Why are you here by yourself? It was such a wonderful evening.”
You looked up at him, eyes glistening with unshed tears.
“It was supposed to be my birthday party.”
Your mother’s smile faltered “Oh, sweetheart, we’re so sorry,” She said, reaching out to place a hand on your shoulder “But you understand how important this is for Mike, don’t you? This is such a big accomplishment for him.”
“I guess.” You mumbled, though the ache in your chest remained.
Mike walked in then, a triumphant grin on his face “What’s this? Pouting because you had to share the spotlight?” He teased, ruffling your hair in that condescending way that always made your blood boil.
“It’s not a big deal. Come on, you should be happy for me. Not everyone gets into a school like this.”
You clenched your fists, fighting the urge to lash out “Happy birthday to me.” You muttered under her breath.
Her parents, sensing the tension, exchanged a quick glance.
“YN, we’ll make it up to you. Tomorrow, we’ll take you shopping and get you whatever you want. Anything at all.”
You forced a smile, nodding mechanically.
“Sure. Thanks.”
But as you lay in bed that night, staring at the ceiling, you couldn’t shake the feeling of being invisible. No matter how hard you tried, it seemed you would always come second to Mike—the golden child, the perfect son, the one who could do no wrong.
And so, the seeds of bitterness were planted, watered by years of neglect and overshadowed by a brother who always shone brighter.
You promised yourself then that you would never let anyone make you feel small again.
If you had to be cruel to survive, so be it. Because in a world where everyone else seemed to have the upper hand, kindness felt like a luxury you couldn’t afford.
✮ ⋆
July, 2020⋆｡
The dining room was filled with laughter and the soft clinking of glasses. The long table was adorned with an elegant spread, shimmering under the chandelier’s warm glow.
It was Mike’s farewell dinner, a grand event in honor of his departure to Germany to pursue his master’s degree in business management.
The room buzzed with pride and excitement for the family’s golden boy.
You, now seventeen, sat near the end of the table, quiet and composed, your gaze fixed on your untouched plate. You had learned to blend into the background during these family gatherings, where you knew your presence would be an afterthought.
“To Mike!” Uncle William raised his glass for the third toast of the evening “A true inspiration to us all. You’ve always been the pride of the family!”
“Here’s to making us proud in Germany,” Chimed in Aunt Silvia, dabbing her eyes with a napkin “Our boy is destined for greatness.”
Everyone joined in the toast, glasses clinking, voices filled with admiration. Your grip tightened around the fork, your knuckles white as you forced a polite smile.
“And what about you, YN?” Cousin Andrew’s voice cut through the noise like a blade, drawing attention to her “Any plans to follow in your brother’s footsteps? Or is it still fashion magazines and parties for you?”
The table erupted in laughter, the kind that stung more than it amused. Your jaw clenched, but you kept a neutral expression, unwilling to give them the satisfaction of a reaction.
Your mother’s voice cut through the mockery, firm but not forceful.
“That’s enough, Andrew. YN has her own path, and she’s doing well in school.”
“Well, of course she is,” Mike interjected, his tone smooth but laced with condescension “YN has always been… creative.”
More laughter followed, and you felt the familiar sting of their dismissive comments. Years of enduring this treatment had toughened you, but tonight, it felt heavier, like a weight pressing on your chest.
As dessert was served, Grandpa leaned toward you.
“You should be proud of your brother, Little YN. He’s setting the standard for the family. Maybe one day you’ll find your own way to contribute.”
“I am proud.” You said softly, voice steady despite the lump in your throat.
Your father, noticing the tension, tried to lighten the mood.
“Come now, let’s not overshadow YN entirely. She’s done well this year, too.”
“Sure,” Mike quipped, a smirk tugging at his lips “But tonight isn’t about her.”
You pushed your chair back, movements graceful despite the storm brewing inside you.
“If you’ll excuse me, I think I’ll get some air.”
The murmurs at the table quieted as you left the room, heels clicking against the polished floor.
Once outside, You inhaled deeply, the cool night air filling her lungs. Your chest heaved as you fought back the tears threatening to spill.
You wouldn’t let them see your break.
Not now. Not ever.
When your parents found you later, sitting on the garden bench, your father held out a small, velvet box.
“We’re sorry, darling,” He said, his voice soft with guilt “We didn’t mean to make you feel left out.”
You opened the box to reveal a delicate diamond bracelet, the stones catching the moonlight.
“It’s beautiful.” You said, slipping it onto your wrist.
But inside, the gesture felt hollow. No gift could fill the void left by years of neglect and overshadowing.
That night, the bracelet glittering on the nightstand, you made a vow: If the world wanted to underestimate you, you would let it. And then, you would show them all just how wrong they were.
✮ ⋆
Present year (Mike’s return)⋆｡
Hours later, you returned home after dinner at Hongjoong’s house, your mood lifted by the warmth and genuine affection of his parents. But the moment you stepped inside your own home, the oppressive atmosphere returned.
Mike confronted you as always, but you didn’t mind, didn’t talk back. But your chest burned with frustration and hurt.
As you reached the top of the stairs, you passed by your parents’ room. Their voices carried through the cracked door.
“Do you think we should talk to her?” Your mother asked, her tone uncertain.
Her father sighed “She’ll be fine. She always is.”
“I don’t know,” She said softly “Maybe we should get her something. You know how sensitive she can be about these things.”
“A trip, perhaps?” Your father suggested “Or maybe one of those designer handbags she likes. It’s not like she doesn’t enjoy it.”
You froze in the hallway, stomach twisting. Of course. This was how it always went. Gifts instead of apologies. Material things to soothe over their lack of understanding or support.
You leaned against the wall, fists clenching.
As a child, you had cried over these moments, hoping for more, longing for genuine care. Now, you knew better.
You have learned to accept it, even take advantage of it.
If they thought they could buy your affection, you would let them.
Your lips curved into a bitter smile. If they wanted to give you a car, a trip, a bag, or whatever else they thought would ease their guilt, so be it. You’d make sure it was worth their while.
But as you slipped into your room and closed the door, the bitterness remained, gnawing at the edges of your heart.
You should be used to this by now.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
The bustling energy of the school hallway feels distant as you walk to your locker. Usually, your heels click with purpose, your presence commanding attention.
But today, something is off. You aren't radiating your usual aura of authority and sharpness. Instead, you move through the crowd quietly, your thoughts heavy.
Your mind has been restless since the night before, replaying old memories you rarely allowed yourself to dwell on. The echoes of the past—your parents’ hollow apologies, Mike’s dismissive words—lingered, intertwining with the warmth you had felt during the date with Hongjoong.
Why now? Why did those memories resurface now, after a day that had been nothing short of… perfect?
As you approach your locker, you feel a presence behind you. Turning, you see Hongjoong standing there, his brows furrows in concern.
“You’ve been quiet.” He says softly.
You tilt your head, brushing a strand of hair behind your ear.
“And that’s unusual?”
“For you? Yeah.” He says, a small smile tugging at his lips.
You smirk faintly but don't respond. Instead, you play with the lock on your locker, your movements uncharacteristically hesitant.
Hongjoong leans against the locker next to yours, studying you.
“Something’s on your mind.”
You hesitate, pride warring with the strange weight pressing on your chest. Finally, you shrug, closing the locker door.
“Don’t flatter yourself. Not everything revolves around you, Joongie.”
Hongjoong chuckles, but his concern doesn't waver “Okay, but if you need someone to talk to, you know where to find me.”
You nod, taking a deep breath, trying to shake off the unease.
“Today I planned a little meeting at my house, bring a swimsuit.”
✮ ⋆
The sun cast golden reflections over the pool as music pulses through the speakers. Laughter and chatter fill the air as you and your friends lounge around, drinks in hand. Mindy, Samantha, Wooyoung, Seonghwa, San, Mingi, and Hongjoong are all there, the atmosphere lighthearted and carefree.
Dann, ever the obedient little pet, carries a tray of drinks, moving carefully to avoid spilling anything. She approaches the group, her expression unreadable as she sets the drinks down on the small poolside table.
"Finally." Seonghwa smirks, picking up his glass.
"Took you long enough, nerd." Mindy snaps.
"What, did you have to mix them by hand?" Wooyoung adds with a chuckle.
Dann clenches her jaw but says nothing. She had learned that silence is often the best defense. But today, something in her burns hotter than usual.
Maybe it is the sight of you and Hoongjoong sitting so close, his hand around your waist, your chemistry undeniable.
Maybe it’s the way you barely acknowledge her, as if she is nothing more than an accessory in your world.
"You should be more grateful," Dann mutters under her breath "Not everyone is willing to put up with your bullshit."
Silence. Then laughter. You arch an eyebrow, standing up and tilting your head as if you hadn't heard correctly.
"Excuse me?"
Dann swallows, but her resolve doesn't waver "I said—"
But before she can finish, you let out a scoff, exchanging a look with Wooyoung. Without warning, you place a hand on Dann’s shoulder and give her a hard shove. Wooyoung, catching on to the moment, joins in, and together you push Dann straight into the pool.
A loud splash echoes through the air.
Laughter erupts from the group as Dann surfaces, coughing and sputtering, her soaked hair plaster to her face. Wooyoung doubled over, wiping tears from his eyes. Even Hongjoong chuckles along with the others.
Dann wipes water from her eyes, her face burning—not just from humiliation but from something deeper. Something sharper.
As the group continues to laugh, none of them notices the figure watching from the mansion’s balcony. Mike stands at a distance, his expression unreadable, his grip tightening around his glass as he observes everything in silence.
The laughter has barely settled when Dann storms away, her soaked clothes clinging to her like a second skin, her face burning with humiliation.
She can still hear their amusement echoing behind her, but she doesn’t turn back. She wouldn’t give them the satisfaction.
Just as the group is about to move on from the incident, a familiar voice interrupts.
“Sweetie,” Your mother’s elegant tone cut through the chatter, drawing everyone’s attention.
“Yes, mommy?”
Your mother looks over the group with an approving nod “I see you’re all having fun,” She says pleasantly “I wanted to extend an invitation to all of you. This Saturday, we’re hosting a celebration for Mike’s accomplishments. It’ll be a grand affair.”
The mention of Mike makes your stomach twist, but you keep your expression unreadable.
Your mother’s gaze then lands directly on Hongjoong “And you, young man, I would love for you to attend.”
Hongjoong blinks, clearly caught off guard. He isn’t sure if that is true or just a polite formality, but he nods nonetheless.
“Uh, thank you, Mrs. Clarke. I’d be honored to come.”
“Wonderful.” She said smoothly, and with that, she excused herself, leaving the group with murmurs of intrigue about the upcoming event.
✮ ⋆
As the night stretches on, one by one, your friends depart, leaving only you and Hongjoong by the pool. The energy has shifted. The teasing, the careless fun—it all faded into something quieter, something heavier in the air between you.
The water is cool against Hongjoong’s skin, a welcome contrast to the heat radiating between you. His arms wrap around your waist, pulling you closer, feeling the warmth of your sun-kissed body against his own. You straddle his lap, your fingers threading through his hair as you talk.
“And your friends… what are they like?” You ask, your voice softer now, genuinely curious.
Hongjoong chuckles “A bunch of nerds, really,” He admits “Yunho is always energetic, making jokes and annoying. Yeosang is quiet but he is also a weirdo.” You both laugh, you can see in his eyes how much he appreciates his friends “On the other hand, Jongho is reserved and always listening, sometimes scary, but in general we spend way too much time debating books lore and analyzing sci-fi movies like it’s a science.”
You smirk, tilting your head toward him “That’s kinda cute.”
He raises an eyebrow “Cute? You wouldn’t last five minutes in one of our discussions.”
“Try me, I know much more than just fashion and pop culture gossip.”
And for a while, you simply talk. About things that don't matter, about things that do. And for the first time in a long time, you aren't thinking about your reputation, about expectations, or about proving yourself.
You are just there, with him.
At some point, you drift closer, and Hongjoong notices. The way your eyes soften under the dim lights, the way the water reflects off your skin. The way you look at him—not like he is some nerd trying to reach too high, but like he is just Hongjoong.
Without overthinking, he leans in, brushing a damp strand of hair behind your ear.
“You’re different when it’s just us.” He murmurs.
“And you don’t mind?”
He shakes his head “Not even a little.”
Your lips meet, tentative at first, then deeper. The warmth of the water, the way your bodies press against each other—it’s intoxicating. Your fingers curl around the nape of his neck, pulling him closer.
His hands trace slow, lazy circles on your bare waist, and for that moment, nothing else exists.
"You always talk about your nerdy friends," You murmur as you pull back a little, your breath catching against his lips "But you never really tell me about you."
Hongjoong lets out a soft chuckle, shaking his head "And here I thought you didn’t care."
You roll your eyes, but there’s something different now. The barest hint of a smirk touches your lips.
"Maybe I do."
His breath hitches at the sound of your voice, and you feel the faint tremor in his hands as they hover on your waist. There’s hesitation, a slight uncertainty, as if he’s not sure how far to go or whether he’s doing it right. You like it. It’s endearing.
You know exactly what’s on his mind, that quiet nervousness, and it only makes you want him more.
You reach out, tracing your fingertips slowly down his arm beneath the water, deliberate and teasing. He shivers slightly under your touch, his pulse hammering.
When your hand drifts to his chest, you linger there, pressing your palm flat against his skin, feeling the steady rhythm of his heart beneath your fingers.
“Let's go shopping tomorrow after school. You need a suit, and you have to impress my mother.”
“Only your mother?” He teases, making you scoff.
“Think what you want, but you need something that screams ‘I belong to YN Clarke’.”
Hongjoong laughs but nods “All right then, pretty.”
"You’re warm," You note absently, your breath shaky as you let your touch wander.
Hongjoong exhales sharply, his hand lifting, skimming over the curve of your waist. His fingertips brush over your bare skin, and you can feel his uncertainty, the way he pulls back just a fraction when you press closer.
His breath is uneven, like he’s trying to keep up with the rhythm of your touch, trying to suppress the nerves coiling in his gut. He swallows hard.
"YN—"
You cut him off before he can say more, leaning in to kiss him again, your lips meeting his with an urgency that both surprises and excites him.
The kiss is slow at first, teasing, but as Hongjoong slides his hand to the small of your back and pulls you closer, something inside both of you snaps.
The moment his grip tightens, pulling you flush against him, you gasp softly, feeling the heat between you intensify. Hongjoong's kiss becomes deeper, rougher, his hands gripping you like he’s been starving for you, his touch becoming bolder, more eager.
His muscles tense beneath your hands, the slight tremor in his touch betraying his inexperience, but you don’t mind. If anything, you find it charming, knowing you’re the one who can pull this reaction from him.
The water around you suddenly feels too cool compared to the heat of his body against yours. Your arms wrap around his neck, fingers threading through his damp hair as he presses you against the edge of the pool.
He kisses along your jaw, over the damp skin of your throat, sucking lightly before flicking his tongue over the spot to soothe the sting. You shudder at the sensation, your legs instinctively wrapping around his waist beneath the water.
"Joong—" You breathe, your voice barely above a whisper, lost in the warmth of the moment.
But he swallows the rest of your words with another kiss, drowning you both in the heat of it, in the desperation, the raw hunger that feels so real and unrestrained.
His hands roam lower now, gripping your thighs beneath the water, and you arch into him. You can feel his self-control hanging by a thread, the way he stifles every urge to push harder, faster, the way he almost overthinks each move. It’s a mix of hesitance and hunger.
He wants you so badly, but he’s not sure if he’s doing it right. But the more you respond, the more he realizes that’s not what matters. It’s the way you want him that matters.
You guide him without saying a word—your body melting against him, soft sighs escaping your lips as he becomes more confident with each touch. His kisses deepen, and the passion between you escalates.
There’s nothing awkward about this anymore. The hesitation fades, and what’s left is raw, real, and completely right.
"God, you drive me crazy," He murmurs against your lips, voice hoarse with the effort of holding back.
You smirk, brushing your fingers along his jaw "I know, nerd."
Hongjoong groans, his grip tightening as he nips at your lower lip in retaliation. You laugh, but it quickly fades into a soft sigh when he dips his head, kissing along the curve of your shoulder, his lips gentle but insistent.
For a moment, you can feel him stiffen slightly, unsure whether he’s moving too fast, and then you pull him closer, urging him to follow your lead. His hands move with more certainty now, exploring with a quiet passion, and the way his body reacts to yours is nothing short of electrifying.
The beauty of it is not just in the physicality—the way his hands and lips touch you—but in the way he’s learning.
Hongjoong is not perfect, and he’s not experienced, but he’s here.
He’s with you, and the more he responds to you, the more he learns what you need, the more you find yourself consumed by him.
It’s the way he forgets his nervousness, the way he becomes sure of himself because of you.
And you know, deep down, that this isn’t just about the touch, the heat, the kissing. It’s about the way he’s learning to be confident in himself. Because of you.
And that, in the end, makes all the difference.
For once, you let yourself get lost in it. In the way Hongjoong touches you, the way he wants you, the way he holds you like you’re something precious.
It 's intoxicating.
And yet, hidden in the shadows, Dann stands frozen, her chest tightening, her fingers clenched into fists as she watches the scene unfold.
Dann hadn’t meant to stay. She hadn’t meant to see.
But there she is, standing by the edge of the terrace, her heart sinking lower and lower.
It wasn’t just a kiss. It wasn’t just some game you were playing.
This is real.
She has told herself she doesn't care. That it doesn’t matter. But the painful sting in her heart tells her otherwise.
And it hurt.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
The next day, you and Hongjoong find yourselves strolling through an upscale shopping mall. The polished marble floors gleam under the soft glow of designer store lights.
As usual, your style is impeccable—heels clicking in rhythm, and your hair flowing with the air. Beside you, Hongjoong is a stark contrast, casual yet charming in his plain sweater and jeans.
You lead him into one of the most exclusive stores, where racks of tailored suits and elegant ensembles line the walls.
The sales assistants greet you with knowing smiles, instantly recognizing your status.
“Do you even know my size?” He teases, watching you confidently pull out a dark navy suit with subtle pinstripes.
You smirk, holding the suit up to him “I don’t need to know your size. I have an eye for perfection.”
He shakes his head, chuckling as he takes the suit from your hands “You know I don’t need something this expensive, right? I can just wear the stuff I have at home.”
“Not if you’re going to a party as my date.” You say firmly, your tone leaving no room for argument.
Hongjoong smiles softly but doesn’t press further. He disappears into the fitting room, and while he’s gone, you wander the store, your gaze drifting over the luxurious displays.
The weight in your chest hasn’t eased since yesterday. If anything, it feels heavier under the bright lights and polished surfaces.
It’s not about the suit. It’s not about the party. Shopping, spending, indulging—it’s the only thing that ever distracted you from the hollow ache inside. It always has been.
“YN?” Hongjoong’s voice pulls you from your thoughts.
You turn, and for a moment, your breath catches. The suit fits him perfectly, accentuating his broad shoulders and lean frame.
He looks… confident. Polished.
Yours.
“What do you think?” He asks, doing a half spin for effect.
You step closer, your fingers brushing over the lapel of the jacket “You look…” You pause, searching for the right word, then smirk “Like someone who belongs to me.”
He laughs, shaking his head, but there’s a hint of pink in his cheeks “I should’ve known you’d say that.”
After the purchase is made—your card, of course—you both leave the store. You’re holding onto a medium-sized bag containing some clothes as Hongjoong holds a bag with his new suit that costs more than some people make in a month.
As you walk through the mall, Hongjoong’s phone buzzes in his pocket. He glances at the screen, and a small smile spreads across his face.
“What is it?” You ask, curious.
“It’s Jongho, Yeosang, and Yunho,” He says, showing you the message “They’re asking if I want to hit the arcade with them tonight. It’s been ages since we’ve hung out.”
You notice the way his eyes light up at the mention of his friends, and for a moment, your heart clenches.
You nod, keeping your expression neutral.
“You should go.”
He hesitates, slipping his phone back into his pocket “I don’t want to leave you alone.”
“I’ll be fine,” You say with a small smile “Go have fun with them. You deserve it.”
“Are you sure?” He asks, studying your face.
“Yeah,” You reply, tilting your head slightly “I’ll just go home and relax. Maybe binge some show or something.”
Hongjoong doesn’t look convinced, but he doesn’t push.
“Okay, but only if you promise me something.”
“What?”
“That you’ll call me if you need anything.”
You roll your eyes, your lips curving into a smirk “Relax, Joong. I’m not helpless.”
“I know you’re not,” He says softly “But I care about you, pretty. A lot.”
The sincerity in his voice makes your chest tighten. You can’t help but wonder if it’s only a matter of time before those words—his care, his affection—turn into something else.
Something colder.
He leans down and kisses your forehead, his hand briefly brushing yours.
“I’ll text you later, okay?”
“Okay,” You whisper, watching him walk away.
You clutch the bag in your hand, the weight of the expensive items nothing compared to the familiar emptiness settling in your chest.
✮ ⋆
The arcade was alive with the sound of laughter, the ping of game machines, and the occasional cheer of someone winning.
Hongjoong walked in, spotting the boys huddled near the air hockey table.
“Hongjoong!” Yunho calls, waving him over.
“About time you showed up,” Yeosang teases “We thought YN had you on a leash or something.”
Hongjoong rolls his eyes, grinning “Very funny.”
Jongho smirks “For a moment we thought you'd say no, since you've only spent time with her.”
“I also have a life apart from being with her and she also needs her space, so she let me come.”
“She let you come? I didn't know you had to ask permission to go out with your friends.” Yunho snorts mockingly.
“We’re kind of a thing now.” Hongjoong murmurs shyly.
The boys look confused at each other before looking at him.
“What do you mean with that, Joong?”
He hesitates before shrugging, a small smile tugging at his lips “We had a date.”
Yunho drops the joystick he was holding “A date?!
“Wait, wait,” Yeosang says, laughing “YN Clarke? Like, the queen bee had a date with you?”
“The same one.” Hongjoong replies, scratching the back of his neck.
Yeosang and Yunho exchange a look before breaking into wide grins.
Jongho let out a low whistle “I thought you were joking about liking her. She actually went out with you?”
“Yeah,” Hongjoong says, his smile growing “It was amazing. I took her to the amusement park. She even let me win her a prize—a stuffed bunny.”
Yunho grinns “Aww, how romantic. Joongie the Casanova.”
“More like Hongjoong the miracle nerd,” Jongho adds “Seriously, dude. YN Clarke? That’s insane.”
Yunho’s grin widens “Dude, you’re living the dream. A date with the queen bee of the school? You’re officially a legend.”
Hongjoong chuckles, his face reddening slightly. Before he could respond, a familiar voice interrupted.
“Joong?”
He turns to see Dann standing a few feet away, clutching a soda.
“Dann?” He says, confused “What are you doing here?”
“Yunho texted me,” Dann says, glancing at the boys “Thought it’d be nice to hang out.”
Hongjoong stiffs slightly “Oh... Uh, cool.”
Dann steps closer, her gaze lingering on him “It’s been a while. You’ve been… busy.”
He scratches the back of his neck, glancing at his friends for support “Yeah, I guess I have.”
Dann smiles, though it doesn't quite reach her eyes “With YN, right?”
“Yeah,” He answers, his tone cautious.
Yeosang, sensing the tension, jumps in “Hey, let’s hit the games. Air hockey, anyone?”
“Sure,” Dann says quickly, stepping closer to Hongjoong “We can team up.”
Hongjoong hesitates. He knows you don’t like Dann being around him—and he can't blame you. Dann’s feelings for him are obvious, you told him from the beginning and he can already confirm it.
He doesn’t want to hurt Dann, but he also doesn’t want to disrespect you.
“Actually,” He starts, his tone gentle but firm “Why don’t you play with Jongho? He’s unbeatable.”
Dann’s smile falters “Oh. Right. Sure.”
Yunho raises an eyebrow at Hongjoong, but doesn’t comment. They are all aware of the feelings of both, Dann in love with Hongjoong and Hongjoong with you, they just hope that things don't get awkward in the future.
As they move toward the air hockey table, Dann hangs back, watching Hongjoong laugh and joke with the others.
Her chest tightness. Hongjoong was pushing her away—kindly, yes, but it was still rejection. And she knows why.
It 's not fair. She had been there for him when no one else was. She had defended him when people mocked him for being a nerd. And now, he was choosing you. Again.
Her phone buzzes, breaking her thoughts. She pulls it out to see a message from Mike:
Mike C: Stay focused. Remember our deal.
Dann clenches her jaw, her fingers tightening around the phone.
If Hongjoong wants to choose you, fine. But you don’t deserve him. And Dann is going to make sure he sees that—no matter what it takes.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
The cafeteria is alive with its usual energy, but the corner table claimed by you and your entourage buzzes with a more refined excitement. The topic of the day? Saturday’s celebration for Mike at the Ritz.
“So,” Mindy begins, twirling a strand of her perfectly styled hair “Who’s already stressing about their outfit? Because I may or may not have gone a little overboard at Valentino yesterday.”
“Only yesterday?” Wooyoung teases, smirking “Some of us have been planning for days. I’m bringing the tux my dad wore to that gala in Monaco. He swears it’s vintage gold now.”
You scoff, taking a delicate sip of your iced coffee “Monaco tux or not, just don’t embarrass me, Woo.”
“Moi? Embarrass you? Never, babydoll.” He grins, leaning back in his chair.
Mindy sighs dramatically, resting her chin in her palm “I still think about the last party. The lighting, the flowers, the champagne towers. Do you think they’ll top it this time?”
“They’d better,” You reply nonchalantly, though your gaze flickered briefly “My parents love to ‘impress.’ It’s practically their brand.”
“And what time should we grace them with our presence?” Another of your friends, Samantha, asks, pulling out her phone.
“Seven-thirty, at the Ritz. And be punctual. This isn’t one of those parties you can show up fashionably late to.”
“Noted,” Wooyoung says, tapping the time into his calendar “And little Hongjoong? Are you ready to make your grand debut into the Clarke world of extravagance?”
Hongjoong, who has been quietly observing the banter, chuckles softly “I think I’ll survive. YN’s already dragged me through the whole shopping process.”
“Oh, please,” You cut in, smirking “Dragged? You should be thanking me, Joong.”
He raises his hands in surrender, laughing “All right, all right. I owe you one.”
“Just one?” Wooyoung teases again, winking.
Mindy’s eyes lit up as she leaned forward “Wait, what did you go with? Armani? Tom Ford?”
“Tom Ford, It suits him. And trust me, he’ll be turning heads Saturday night.”
“Can’t wait to see it.” Woo says, smirking at him.
“So, how many bottles of champagne do you think your parents are bringing out this time? Ten? Twenty?”
You snort, leaning back in the chair with an air of practiced nonchalance “If it’s less than twenty, I’ll personally tell the caterers to triple the order.”
Wooyoung laughs “Forget the champagne. I’m more interested in how many pastries they’ll have. Last party, I swear I had a religious experience with those chocolate eclairs.”
“Oh, the eclairs,” Sam sighs dreamily “I’ve been thinking about them since then. And don’t even get me started on the tiramisu.”
Hongjoong chuckles, glancing at you “So, is this a party or a dessert buffet?”
“It’s both. A Clarke family event is always an experience. You’ll see.”
“Damn right,” Woo said, raising his water bottle like it was a champagne glass “To YN Clarke and her family's amazing parties!”
The group laughs, the easy camaraderie filling the space. Hongjoong looks at you, a soft smile playing on his lips. You caughting his gaze and, for a brief moment, your confident exterior softened.
The party was just days away, and for now, everything seemed perfect.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
The air in the Clarke mansion was a flurry of activity, with staff bustling through the grand halls, preparing for the evening’s event. The clinking of silverware and the faint aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the dining room, where the family had gathered for breakfast.
You sit at the table, scrolling through your phone, your polished nails tapping lightly against the screen. Across from you, Mike is casually flipping through the day’s paper, looking as composed as ever. Your father is already grumbling about last-minute details while your mother sips her tea, the picture of elegance amidst the chaos.
“Dann, can you help me with this?” Dann’s mother’s voice echoes softly from the kitchen.
Dann, trying to stay invisible, hesitates before hurrying to her mother’s side. Together, they carefully carry trays of food into the dining room.
Your father raises an eyebrow, glancing at Dann as she places a platter of fruit on the table.
“Quite the multi-tasker, aren’t you?” He remarks, his tone hovering between sarcasm and indifference.
Dann stiffens slightly, her cheeks coloring “Just helping my mom, sir.” She says quietly.
Before anyone can say more, your mother sets her cup down with a delicate clink.
“You know, I’ve been watching how hard you work around here, Dann,” She says warmly “Always helping your mother, always polite. I think it’s only fair that we extend an invitation to you for tonight’s party.”
The room falls silent. your head snaps up, eyes narrowing slightly, while Mike’s smirk barely conceals his amusement.
“Mom,” You begin, voice sharp “I don’t think—”
“Nonsense, sweetie,” She interrupts smoothly “It’s about time we show a little appreciation. Don’t you think so?”
Dann blinks, surprise evident on her face “Oh, Mrs. Clarke, that’s… I mean, thank you, but—”
“Of course,” Your father interjects, his tone dry “Just make sure you’re aware of the dress code. It’s black tie, not… casual.” His eyes flick briefly over Dann’s simple attire, and the implication hangs heavy in the air.
Your mother’s jaw tightens, and shoots her husband a pointed look “Which is why, sweetheart, you’ll be lending her something appropriate to wear. I’m sure you have plenty of dresses that would look lovely on her.”
Your lips curve into a slow, calculated smile “Of course, Mommy.”
After breakfast, you guide Dann into your walk-in closet with a sweeping gesture, the dazzling array of dresses catching her wide-eyed attention.
She's already entered the closet next to your room, but this one is much bigger. Her fingers trail hesitantly over the delicate fabrics, her expression a mix of awe and discomfort.
She’s never been surrounded by such luxury, let alone been invited to wear it. The second-hand clothes she normally wears couldn’t be further from this.
“You’ve got so many.” She murmurs, her voice tinged with wonder.
You smile, tilting your head “I know, it’s almost a problem, right? Too many choices. But don’t worry—I’ll help you find something that’s just right for tonight.”
Dann nods quickly, her unease flickering across her face. She’s not used to this kind of kindness from you, and it’s unsettling.
But as much as she doesn’t trust it, she can’t exactly refuse either.
You reach into one of the last racks, where the clothes you no longer wear are stored, you pull out a shimmering emerald gown with a slit up the side.
“Here’s a favorite of mine. It’s gorgeous on, trust me. And it’ll definitely help you stand out.”
Dann takes the dress with both hands, handling it as though it might dissolve in her grip “It’s beautiful,” She says, her tone genuine “I’ve never worn anything like this before.”
You smile, masking your amusement “Well, there’s a first time for everything.”
Moving through the racks, you select another gown, this one a deep crimson with delicate lace detailing.
“Or maybe this one? It’s a classic. Wore it to a charity auction, and let me tell you—it turned heads.”
Dann stares at the dress, wide-eyed “Wow. It 's amazing.”
She’s completely oblivious to the fact that these dresses, as stunning as they are, are from last year’s collections—now outdated by anyone with even a passing knowledge of fashion.
To Dann, they’re the height of elegance.
You pull a lavender gown from the back of the rack, its soft beading catching the light.
“This one’s a little more subtle,” You say, handing it over “It’s sweet and sophisticated. I think it’s perfect for you. You can keep it, take it as a gift.”
Dann nods enthusiastically, her unease momentarily forgotten as she clutches the gown to her chest.
“Thank you, YN. This is… this is so kind of you.”
You wave off her gratitude with a bright smile “Of course. It’s my pleasure. Go try it on, let’s see how it looks.”
She disappears into the dressing room, and you lean against the doorway with a smug tilt to your lips.
The plan is unfolding perfectly. These dresses, while stunning in their time, are no longer the kind that command admiration—they invite quiet judgment.
But Dann doesn’t know that, and that’s exactly the point.
When she steps out in the lavender gown, her face lights up “It fits perfectly,” She says, her voice tinged with shy excitement.
You study her for a long moment, your smile never faltering.
“It looks wonderful on you, just wait until you see everyone’s reaction tonight.”
Dann beams, completely unaware of the double meaning behind your words.
“I can’t thank you enough, YN.”
You wave her off again “No need to thank me. I’m just glad you’ll have something to wear.”
Inside, you’re already picturing the whispers and raised eyebrows at the party. Tonight will be a night she’ll never forget—for all the wrong reasons.
As Dann leaves the room clutching the dress, you lean against the doorway, arms crossed. Your mother’s unexpected invitation throws you off, but if Dann is going to attend, you will make sure it’s on your terms.
✮ ⋆
Dann holds the lavender dress against herself, staring at the delicate fabric in awe. She hurries to the kitchen, where her mother is wiping down the counters.
“Mom, look at this,” Dann says, holding the gown up for her mother to see “It’s beautiful, but I don’t have the right shoes or makeup to match it.”
Her mother glances at the dress, her expression softening with a mix of pride and concern.
“It’s lovely, sweetheart, but you’re right. You need to look your best if you’re going to that party.”
Dann frowns “But… I don’t have anything like that.”
Her mother thinks for a moment, before leaving the kitchen she smiles at her “Why don’t you go shopping? Find a nice pair of shoes and maybe some makeup. You deserve to feel special tonight.”
As Dann mulls over the idea, Mike enters the room, his usual air of confidence trailing behind him. Overhearing their conversation, he leans casually against the doorframe.
“Shopping for the party, Dann?” He asks, his tone dripping with feigned interest.
Dann straightens, clutching the dress tighter “I don’t have shoes or makeup, so I thought—”
“Perfect.” Mike pulls out his wallet, flipping through the neatly arranged bills and credit cards. He holds out a black credit card “Here. Get yourself something nice. Consider it a little thank-you for… being cooperative.”
Dann hesitates but eventually takes the card, murmuring a quiet “Thanks.”
Mike’s smirk widens “While you’re at it, I’ve been thinking. Wouldn’t it be amusing if Hongjoong accidentally ended up at the wrong address tonight?”
Dann’s brows furrow “What do you mean?”
“Oh, you know.” His tone is casual, but his eyes gleam with mischief “If YN’s little nerd showed up at the wrong place, it’d be quite the embarrassment. Don’t you think?”
Dann bites her lip “How would we even do that?”
Mike’s smirk sharpens “Simple. We just need YN’s phone. Once you’re back, we’ll figure out the details.”
Dann nods slowly, the plan settling uneasily in her mind. She doesn’t like deceiving Hongjoong, but the thought of disrupting YN’s perfect evening is too tempting to resist.
Later, at the shopping mall, Dann wanders through the perfume section, marveling at the elegant bottles and their enticing scents. She is about to make her selection when a familiar voice catches her attention.
Turning, she sees Hongjoong standing a few feet away, examining a cologne bottle. His brows furrowed in concentration as he sprayed a tester onto a card.
“Joong?” Dann calls, her voice carrying a hint of surprise.
He looks up, a smile breaking across his face “Dann? What are you doing here?”
“Just… shopping,” She says, holding up a small bag “You?”
“Same,” He says with a laugh “YN told me I needed to step up my game for tonight, so here I am.”
Dann’s mind races. This is her chance to plant the seed of doubt. She steps closer, lowering her voice conspiratorially.
“By the way, did YN tell you about the venue change?”
Hongjoong blinks “Venue change? What are you talking about?”
“Oh,” Dann says, feigning surprise “I thought she’d have mentioned it. YN’s mother invited me to the celebration because I’ve been working for YN, so she told me earlier that Mike decided to move the party to that new place downtown, I'll send you the address, but she said something about Mike wanting a more modern vibe.”
Hongjoong frowns, confusion flickering across his face “Why didn’t YN tell me?”
Dann shrugs “She’s probably just busy with everything. You know how these rich people's events are—chaotic.”
He nods slowly, though uncertainty lingers in his expression “Yeah… maybe.”
Dann smiles sweetly, placing a hand on his arm “Don’t worry. Just show up at. You’ll be fine.”
As Dann walks away, a pang of guilt surfaces. But it’s quickly overshadowed by the thrill of watching the plan unfold.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
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All rights reserved ♡bunny-hwa. Do not copy or translate my work.
this was so cute! I love just the two of them talking and building it’s so relaxing, still haven’t gone out and build a lego set so this will do.
thank you again taking in my request when will i have more no clue, but I know that I can count on you to accomplish them perfectly 💕
🪻Lego Friday🪻
✨Pairing: non idol!Seonghwa x gn!reader ✨Prompt: Building a lego set with seonghwa I don’t have much of an idea around this one I just really wanna build a lego set and from watching seonghwa lego lives building with him just looks like so much fun. ✨Requested by @beabatiny🫶🏻 ✨Word Count: 0.9k ✨Genre: fluff ☀️Authors Note: Thank you for requesting this! It was fun writing and I hope you enjoy it🥰 also sorry this took me so long to write😭
"I wanna build legos."
It was announced to you as you were making some desserts for the two of you. Seonghwa was standing in the kitchen holding two enormous lego bags he had pulled out from somewhere whilst giving you the biggest puppy eyes.
"Do you want me to build legos with you?" You ask fighting back a chuckle at the way he was standing and pouting.
His little nod brought a smile to your face as you finished up the dessert.
"Then we will build legos together! Got any I can build? Nothing too complicated please!"
As you said that Seonghwa was already picking up the different lego sets he had, eager to find one you could work on.
"Baby Yoda? Or maybe some flowers?? Or both??" He holds two sets up for you showcasing one where you'd build baby Yoda or some flowers to have for display.
"Hmmm Yoda looks a bit easier, can I start with that one perhaps?"
"Yes!!!" He nods and then quickly hurries to the living room moving with urgency to move everything to the side so the two of you can build the legos together comfortably.
"Cutie." You say to yourself shaking your head with a little laugh before entering the living room with two cups of dessert and two spoons.
You sit down next to him looking curiously at what he's doing.
"Here! One baby Yoda box for you! I'll work on a darth vader one then!" He says happily while handing you your box.
"Thank you!" You say as you take the box and empty it on the floor in front of you.
The two of you sit in silence for a while sorting through the pieces before you remember something you wanted to share with him.
"Did I tell you what Wooyoung and Yeosang did yesterday when we went mini golfing?" You ask him as you start putting some of the pieces together.
"What did those two do this time?" He asks curious to know what your friends had done. Knowing that Wooyoung was involved it could mean anything from silly things like stealing a bite from someones ice cream to something more chaotic.
"Well they started arguing about the best way to push the ball in the hole and decided to make it a competition." You start telling him and Seonghwas boba eyes are focused on you.
"I'm sensing a but?" he says chuckling and you can't help but laugh and nod.
"Yeah, Yeosang did better and to try and distract him, Wooyoung decided to full on chomp on his shoulder." You show by imitating Woo's chomp on Yeosangs shoulder on Seonghwas shoulder without actually biting him.
His laugh ring through the apartment as he shakes his head at your friends antics.
"That sounds just like them to be honest." He says as he hands you the piece you're looking for whilst showing you where it should go.
"Yeah they truly can't be stopped. We almost got kicked out because of Wooyoungs loud chatter but we managed to get him to quiet down by promising we'd buy him food if he could be a bit quieter so we could play to the end."
The two of you sit and talk for hours, giggling about everything from the legos, to your friends, to things that has happened recently in your life whilst enjoying the dessert from time to time that you had prepared.
"Look! Isn't it cute once it's finished?" Seonghwa ask as he shows you the little Darth Vader figure hes put together and you look at him in surprise.
"How did you finish so quickly?! I'm still trying to figure out what I've done wrong." You say as you hold up your Yoda figure which looks a bit wonky due to you putting the wrong pieces together.
"Ahhh well I'm the pro aren't I? You'll learn quickly if you build legos more often." He says whilst moving closer to you, taking the lego from your hands and undoing what you had put together wrongly.
"Here, let's try again okay? This piece." He holds up a big piece and gives it to you "goes here okay? Whilst this one goes over there."
He helps guide you by pointing where certain pieces will go.
"Thanks Hwa, this is really calming you know." You mumble as you focus on setting up the last pieces of Yoda before showing it to him proudly.
"Ta-daaaa!" You show the lego piece off and he claps his hands excitedly for you.
"It looks great!"
"That's because I had such a great teacher!"
You two take a little break after that, sitting facing each other and chatting about anything and everything.
"I saw that they're playing Coraline again in the theaters for its 15th year anniversary. All nine of us should go and see it since we're nearing spooky season." Seonghwa says while rummaging through the rest of his unbuilt lego.
"It's in theaters?! All of us have to go! We should go dressed up as the characters! Wooyoung could be the talking cat!" You exclaim and Hwa looks excited at the idea of dressing up and going to see it.
"Yes!! I wanna be one of the old ladies with all the dogs." He lets you know.
"Hongjoong should dress as the other old lady then." You laugh and the night ends with you two planning who would be which character as you start on a new piece of lego, this time deciding to build it together while laughing at the idea of getting dressed to go to the movies.
𓇼 𝘈𝘵𝘦𝘦𝘻 𝘍𝘪𝘤 𝘙𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘌𝘱.𝘚𝘪𝘹 𓇼 𓆞 𝘔𝘢𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘴 𓆞 𓇼 𝘔𝘪𝘯𝘰𝘳𝘴/𝘈𝘨𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘴/𝘉𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘉𝘭𝘰𝘨𝘴 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵 𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘣𝘦 𝘣𝘭𝘰𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘥 𓇼
𓇼 𝘰𝘵8/𝘮𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘪𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘴 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 Dramatic Ass - @srslyscary ot8 x reader (texts) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Friends!? - @starillusion13 poly!yandere!ot8 x reader (series) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 From Storm To Sunrise - @ad0rechuu yungi x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Game Over - @mingi-s-dimples topaz x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Gone - @srslyscary mafia!ateez x mafia!reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓇼 𝘬𝘪𝘮 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘫𝘰𝘰𝘯𝘨 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 Forgotten Melodies - @vampwritesstuff non-idol!hongjoong x reader (smau series) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Glares & Snuggles - @skrrts non-idol!hongjoong x gn!reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Guns & Kisses - @hee0soo mafia boss!hongjoong x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Guns and Tiaras - @crimsonbubble mafia!hongjoong x reader (thoughts) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Hades - @lilacmingi hades!hongjoong x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓇼 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘬 𝘴𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘩𝘸𝘢 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 Inner children - @xuchiya non-idol!seonghwa x reader (drabble) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Lego Friday - @solaris-amethyst non-idol!seonghwa x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Little Brat - @mingtinysworld bf!seonghwa x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Maleficent - @lilacmingi maleficent!seonghwa x princess!reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Me And My Husband - @the-midnight-blooms ceo!dad!seonghwa x scientist!mom!reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸
𓇼 𝘫𝘦𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘶𝘯𝘩𝘰 𓇼 𓆞 Luck - @minkieater non-idol!yandere!yunho x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Morning Buddy - @everyonewooeverywhere bf!yunho x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 My Home - @yunniverse bf!yunho x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Office Secrets - @xomakara manager!yunho x employee!reader 𓆞 𓆞 Perhaps In Another Life - @outlawinthisworld1117 priest!yunho x fleabag!reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓇼 𝘬𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘺𝘦𝘰𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘨 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 Thunder Buddies - @yeonmuse non-idol!yeosang x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Until I Found You [Part One] [Part Two] - @edenesth prince!yeosang x princess!reader (two-parts) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Winner Takes It All - @ja3hwa best friend!yeosang x best friend!reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Would You Choose Him Over Me? - @solaris-amethyst non-idol!yeosang x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 White Silk - @skrrts non-idol!yeosang x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓇼 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘪 𝘴𝘢𝘯 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 Home is where you are - @evandsolo idol!san x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 In For A Ride - @ssweetreveries non-idol!san x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Kiss, Kiss, Fall In Love - @itstheghostofmypast bf!san x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Kitten Fever - @kitten4sannie hybrid!husband!san x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Late Night - @sweetiesicheng idol!san x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸
𓇼 𝘴𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘪 𓇼 𓆞 Missing Out - @songmingisthighs dilf!mingi x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓆞 Mr. Mingi - @sugarnspice630 wonka!mingi x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Nail Polish - @atzaurora bf!mingi x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Older, Wiser, And Hotter Than Ever - @skrrts non-idol!mingi x gn!reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Pretty - @no1likejoongie husband!mingi x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓇼 𝘫𝘶𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘰𝘰𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘨 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 Fried Egg - @jjoongstar chef!wooyoung x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Giggle Fits - @pettypuppy-jonghyun bf!wooyoung x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 How To Tame A Brat Tamer - @k-hotchoisan non-idol!wooyoung x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 I Can Hear The Sea - @daemour non-idol!wooyoung x gn!reader (drabble) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 I Don't Want Your Sorrys, I Want You Safe - @dvrktvnnel mafia!wooyoung x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓇼 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘪 𝘫𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘩𝘰 𓇼𓈒 𓏸 Strangers To Friends To Lovers - @adelusionforyourthoughts soloist!jongho x soloist!reader (texts) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Talking To The Moon - @livsateez bounty hunter!jongho x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 The Pool - @beenbaanbuun non-idol!jongho x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Try Again [Part One] [Part Two] - @edenesth assistant!jongho x new maid!reader (two-parts) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Unspoken Pain - @koyagifs non-idol!jongho x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸
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