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˚ ⏤͟͟͞͞ Come and take a lookie

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Wae you like dat Minzy~~?? TTToTTT

lvi. on and off-stage drama

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

CHAPTER FIFTY-SIX ─ on and off-stage drama.

❛ i swear i don't love the drama, it loves me ❜

Choi Eunyoung's Perspective

"What?!" I breathed out, "Inhyuk's going back to his village? Taesung and Jay are quitting Eclipse? What- what do you mean by that?"

"Exactly," Sunjae nodded remorsefully, "They're saying that they'll finish this festival performance one last time and then quit. But Inhyuk's already left. He's staying with his parents in his village."

It felt as if my entire world was falling apart. I couldn't let this happen. I was supposed to change the future for the better, not create a bigger mess. I had to fix this, by whatever means necessary. 

"Well, we gotta stop this," I said decisively, "Let's talk to Taesung after rehearsal."

"It's a plan," Sunjae said, smiling. His face twisted into an expression of shock when he looked at his watch, "Oh! We're ten minutes late!"

Narrator's Perspective

"What language is this, even?" Yumi exclaimed looking at the script, "Thou lovs't me not with the full weight that I love thee? This nutjob has written the entire play like this! How did I even pass the audition?"

The other students who were part of the cast sat and watched the 'couple' in adoration instead of revising their scripts. They whispered and giggled uncontrollably, much to Yumi's irritation. Taesung, however, was not-so-secretly enjoying it. He was basking in the attention, and the fact that people thought he and Yumi were a real couple made his heart swell with joy.

"You'll do fine," he placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. His touch still made sparks dance across her skin. He leaned towards her face and gave her a smile, "We've got plenty of time, hmm?"

"What's your role anyways?" Yumi asked, looking anywhere but at his face.

"Oliver," he answered, not shifting his gaze.

Yumi began furiously flipping through the pages of the script. All of a sudden, she gasped, "Seriously?"

"What?" Taesung asked, sitting next to her, peering into the script.

"Oliver and Celia get married at the end?" she scoffed, but her flushed face said otherwise, "On the basis of what? I swear Shakespeare was on crack each time he picked up his pen."

"How could you say such a thing about him?" Eunyoung said. She had just gotten there along with Sunjae, "Why hasn't rehearsal started yet?"

"Well, the director suddenly fell sick so the writers told us to revise on our own for today," Taesung explained.

"Oh, we ran here for no reason," Sunjae said, chuckling while shooting a knowing glance at Eunyoung. Eunyoung smiled back, "I know right?"

"Ooooh, damn are you two a thing now?" asked one of the girls sitting close to them, eavesdropping.

"How 'bout you mind your own business?" Yumi sneered with hostility.

"How am I supposed to ignore it when they're flirting right in front of me?"

"Maybe you need a lesson on personal space?" Yumi said, taking a step away from her. 

The girl rolled her eyes, then picked up her things and walked off, muttering under her breath.

"You seem to be in a mood today," Eunyoung observed.

"You can thank Shakespeare for that," Yumi replied.

"I don't know why you hate a man who died several centuries ago," Eunyoung uttered.

"I don't know why you like a man who died several centuries ago," Yumi countered.

"I don't like the man, I just thing his work had a timeless element to it."

"And so here we are."

"Okay, okay, stop the bickering," Taesung said waving his hand between them.

"We're not bickering," Yumi shrugged.

"That's just how we get along," Eunyoung agreed, giving Yumi a small smile.

"As long as there's no bloodshed, I'm good," Taesung said.

"How's the prep for the Eclipse performance going?" Yumi asked eagerly. Her question was followed by a long, awkward silence. Taesung stared at Sunjae, Sunjae glanced at Eunyoung, and Eunyoung looked at Yumi nervously.

"I guess you don't know," Sunjae said as gently as he could, "Inhyuk left for his village, because he wanted to help his parents out... He's also planning on dropping out."

"What?!" Yumi exclaimed. Heads turned to see what the commotion was about. She stood, completely stunned for few seconds, "What's going to happen to your band?" She shot a worried look at Eunyoung, as if to say What is happening? Is this our fault?

"Taesung, didn't you-" Eunyoung gestured him not to mention it, shaking her head as subtly as she could. She didn't want to give Taesung and Yumi a reason to argue again. Sunjae covered up his blunder, "Didn't you say you were going to call him?"

"Um... yeah I was," said Taesung, glad that they hadn't mentioned to Yumi that he was going to leave the band, "He didn't pick up."

"So, Sunjae and I were thinking," Eunyoung began, "That we go and visit his village and bring him back to his senses. What do you think?"

"I'm in," Taesung said, looking at Yumi, his eyes full of expectation.

"What if we can't convince him?"

"Oh, you pessimist," Eunyoung groaned, "If he doesn't agree voluntarily, then we'll kidnap him, okay? Are you in or not?"

"I'm in," she said, realizing she wasn't left with much of a choice.

"Good," said Sunjae, "We leave tomorrow?"

"Yeah," said everyone in unison.

There were a few minutes of silence as they all went back to reading their scripts. A moment later, Eunyoung looked up, "Hey, Taesung?"

"Hmm?"

"I had to ask you about that..." she trailed off.

Taesung frowned with confusion, but the realization hit him soon enough and she said, "Oh,  right. Of course," he said, getting up, "We'll be back."

Yumi and Sunjae watched them get up and go outside the auditorium.

"That was weird," Yumi said, furrowing her brows.

"Breathe if you're jealous."

💿

"Any updates?" she asked Taesung, "About my dad? Was the information I gave conclusive enough?"

"Yeah, they've started the investigation," he answered, "My dad said that considering his history, he'll most likely get a life sentence. He wanted me to ask if it's okay with you."

"Yes, absolutely," Eunyoung said decisively. 

Taesung blinked a few times, "Okay, if that's what you want."

"It is."

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

nana's notes: bet u didn't see that one coming

delphi's notes: yumi and sunjae are such an awkward duo lmfao 

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

CHAPTER FIFTY-THREE ─ expect the unexpected.

❛ and it feels like the start of a movie i've seen before, but you're not here ❜

Ryu Sunjae's Perspective

I practically ran down the stairs, my heartbeat drumming on inside my chest as I felt a new kind of giddy excitement to meet Eunyoung. I had always felt incredibly happy at the thought of her, but this was different. With all that had happened yesterday, it felt like all the puzzle pieces fit perfectly and we were together at last. Everything in my life seemed to lead me here, to Eunyoung.

To my disappointment, on descending the last stair, instead of seeing Eunyoung's smiling face greet me, I saw her sister, Yumi waiting impatiently. Before I could speak, she turned around suddenly, making me jump a little. She was glaring at me with a kind of resentment and disgust that made me feel sick. I took a step back, cowering before her.

"You know, I wanted to be happy about you and Eunyoung," she said menacingly, "But now I'm thinking that you're all kinds of trouble."

"What did I do?" I asked, furrowing my brows in confusion.

"Last night, you guys must have had your rom-com moment in the rain," she started, "But now Eunyoung is lying in bed with a 100 degree fever."

"What?!" I yelled way too loudly, my eyes widening and my heartbeat quickening, "Eunyoung is sick?!" It made me mad. Guilt seemed to be gnawing at my heart as I realized it was my fault. Before I could get a response from Yumi, whose rage had been replaced by surprise at my exaggerated reaction, I began running to Eunyoung's front door.

"I wouldn't go in if I were you," Yumi said. I stopped in my tracks. She continued, "Mom's been up all night taking care of her and her opinion of you is not exactly favorable."

Narrator's Perspective

By the time Sunjae and Yumi had reached school, there was a strange awkwardness between them since Eunyoung wasn't there to play the mutual friend. But when Yumi considered the situation in her mind and concluded that it would be a lot worse if Eunyoung had been with them, because then it would have been Yumi third wheeling with a couple who was so obnoxiously sweet she would have vomited. So, she sat there with Sunjae, feeling grateful for the awkward air that had settled between them.

"So, are you in the school play?" Sunjae asked her out of politeness. He had begun to get a little restless because of the silence. He had imagined his bus ride to college a lot differently. He thought it would be romantic with Eunyoung next to him. But instead he was forced to deal with Yumi; He knew by instinct that she was just tolerating him because of Eunyoung, and honestly he felt the same way.

"No, I'm not," she said without looking at him, "I don't even want to get into all this festival nonsense. I'm the last person to do a thing like a school play. And they chose a Shakespeare play? Forget it."

You ask a simple question... Sunjae sighed internally, "I just thought you would audition- you know, since your boyfriend is in the play."

I guess Eunyoung hasn't told him... This made Yumi feel a little at peace; The fact that Eunyoung was guarding her secret well was a comforting thought.

"Do I seem like the kind of person to humiliate myself on stage because my boyfriend i decided to do it?" she asked formidably.

"I guess not," Sunjae said, giving up on making pleasantries, "I gotta go anyways." He practically ran away from her.

💿

The auditorium was filled with playful banter and friendly conversations. The cast of the Shakespearean play As You Like It that had been casted so far were gathered there for the very first practice. The actors crowded the stage, discussing their roles and reading their scripts. The director and writers responsible for translating the play into Korean occupied a table with various sheets of paper stacked and a microphone to maintain some order.

"Excuse me ! Everybody! May I have your attention please?" asked the girl who was given the role of director. The chaos settled down, slowly but surely, "Thank you. Is everybody here? Or is someone missing?"

"Eunyoung isn't here," Sunjae answered promptly. His comment was followed with some girls eyeing him and whispering among themselves.

"Oh my gosh!"

"Do they like each other or what?"

"I swear there's something going on since the field trip!"

Sunjae wondered if he was being too obvious but chose to ignore the gossip.

"What's her character?" asked the director, looking down at her list of participants.

"Rosalind," he answered. He could hear more whispers.

"Rosalind?!" she repeated, taken aback, "Our Rosalind is absent? Why on earth would she miss the first rehearsal?"

"Uh, she's down with fever!" Sunjae told her, "Pretty bad, actually- hundred degrees. Her sister told me." He ignored the giggling that followed his rather enthusiastic answer.

"Oh, dear," said the director a little calmer than before, "Well, tell her to take care, then. And tell her that absenteeism will not be tolerated except for health related reasons. I'll let her off the hook this one time."

Sunjae heaved a sigh of relief. The writer sitting next to the director whispered something in her ear. Her eyes went wide, "She's one of the writers too? That is... unfortunate."

"Could you be any more obvious?" Taesung sneered.

"Shut up," he snapped, "At least she's in the play."

"Ouch," Taesung said defensively, "Damn, Sunjae didn't think you were stingy like that."

"By the way," began the director, addressing Sunjae, "What's your character?"

"Orlando," he answered plainly.

"Good," the director smiled. The students began hooting and screaming with excitement.

"Okay, settle down," said the writer. He took the microphone from the director, "We don't have an actress for the role of Celia. Does anyone have any suggestions? Anybody wishing to audition?"

A lightbulb suddenly lit up in Taesung's head, "I know someone who could play the role."

"Do they have a name?"

"Uh, yes," he answered, the palms of his hands feeling sweaty, "Choi Yumi from the Practical Music Department." Once again, people began ooh-ing and ahh-ing. 

"Bring her to rehearsal tomorrow to audition," said the writer in a matter-of-fact tone. Taesung smiled ever so slightly. Now he would get to spend some time with her...

"Okay, so since we don't have Rosalind or Celia, we can start with act one, scene one..."

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

nana's notes: yumi is literally ready to fight sunjae

delphi's notes: don't mess with yumi

xlix. drifting away

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

CHAPTER FORTY-NINE ─ drifting away.

❛ still want you all the time, still in a corner of my heart ❜

Choi Eunyoung's Perspective

A couple weeks after college lectures began, I felt as miserable as ever. It was as if I was living the same day over and over again. From the moment I opened my eyes, there was a throbbing pain in my head that weighed me down. As I went about my routine, I felt like a machine, soulless and mechanical. The feeling of regret had become increasingly oppressive, leaving my brain feeling foggy. I could feel a constant ache in my heart and my brain dwelled on my stupid, drunken actions.

Not only had I gone and confessed to Sunjae like an idiot, but I had also kissed him? I couldn't believe I had been so impulsive. Thinking about how uncomfortable he must have been made me want to bury my head in a hole in the ground. At the same time, I couldn't stop reminiscing on how magical the moment felt back then. His soft lips against mine, and the silent whisper of the crickets chirping on that chilly night; I could vividly remember the warmth of his body, and how it was like every inch of our bodies were meant to hold each other.

I had told myself a million times not to get worked up over a drunken kiss. I reminded myself several times that he hadn't said a word to me since I told him to forget about it. The logical part of me said that I did the right thing by apologizing, because in what universe would Ryu Sunjae like me? Yet, there was another voice in my head that said that he would have pushed me away of he didn't like me. There was something in the way he kissed me that I couldn't quite explain. Or maybe, I knew what it was, but admitting it meant that everything became real, and I don't think I was the least bit ready for it.

The truth was that in the fear of losing him, I had ended up pushing him further away from me. Maybe that was how it was meant to turn out all along. Maybe it was better this way. The further he stayed from me, the safer it was for him. My attention turned to the clock, and my movements became immediately hasty and panicked as I grabbed my bag and rushed out the door.

 Choi Yumi's Perspective

I dragged my feet along the pavement, my head hung and a yawn escaping my mouth. It wasn't even that early, yet I could already feel a strange sort of fatigue weighing me down. Ever since the field trip, I had spent several sleepless nights, contemplating everything that had happened. This third time travel had been the most eventful one by far, I realized. I would stare up that the ceiling in the middle of the night, millions of thoughts racing through my tangled head. 

I wondered what it all meant; Taesung offering to be my boyfriend to help me get rid of Minjun. Even after Minjun had given up on harassing me, Taesung and I were still "dating." Everyone knew about our "relationship" and the both of us agreed that it was best to put up a show for a while longer. But I couldn't help but wonder whether he had any ulterior motive in suggesting that?

Another thing that I couldn't stop thinking about was the way he had kissed me in front of the whole department. His touch, that felt demanding yet gentle at the same time, the sweet aftertaste of the kiss, and the distance between us that had finally disappeared for a few short, fleeting seconds, were all so vivid in front of my eyes. Every time the thought crossed my mind, I could practically feel his soft grip on my wrist, and the warmth in his touch that quieted all my fears. It was just for show, I told myself. But it all felt so real...

A high-pitched meow from somewhere in the  nearby bushes perked my attention as I followed the sound. I bent down when I saw a tiny, black kitten between the branches of a wild scrub that grew on the sidewalk. A smile surfaced on my face as I reached out a cautious hand to stroke it's little head. While I continued to pet it, I let out a chuckle as the kitten kept pushing it's head towards my hand every time I paused.

"Looks like you're having a good time."

I stood up abruptly on hearing Taesung's oh-so-familiar voice sound in my ears. For a good few seconds, I found myself staring at his face blankly. Somehow, I was always in awe of how good he looked, without trying at all. There hadn't been many moments him and I had spent alone since the field trip, and seeing him like this, outside school, with no one around made me feel oddly vulnerable and nervous.

"Where'd you come from?"

"That's not how you greet your boyfriend, now, is it?" he said cocking his head to a side, smirking. I scoffed at him.

"You're not really my boyfriend."

"For now I am," he argued.

"Only in front of others," I countered.

He went quiet for a couple moments, staring blankly at my face. I felt my cheeks heat up as the seconds passed by. I tried to distract myself by looking at the telephone pole behind him.

"How's your scar?" he asked suddenly, meeting my eyes, "Does it hurt anymore?"

I was definitely flustered, and muttered out some incoherent nonsense. He had never brought it up since we were in the hospital.

"What?"

"I said umm..." I said, trying to muster up some courage to answer him, "It doesn't hurt now, it's just there," I went quiet for a second and them asked, concerned, "How's your shoulder? Does it hurt anymore?"

"Nope," he said, putting on a fake brave face. But I could see the hurt behind his eyes, "It healed pretty quickly."

Seeing him trying to hide his pain made my heart ache like never before. Will things ever go back to the way they were?

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

nana's notes: eunyoung you blind fool get yourself some glasses-

delphi's notes: taesung in the header TT

previous chapter next chapter: saturday (out now!) list of chapters here!

xlv. break free

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

CHAPTER FORTY-FIVE ─ break free.

❛ have you ever had someone kiss you in a crowded room? ❜

Choi Eunyoung's Perspective

I leaned on the railing at the edge of the mountain, looking onto the scenery. Bright, blue skies with scanty clouds above, and a lush, green valley below. The air around me seemed to be cool and still, as if it was holding it's breath, waiting for something to happen. It tingled against my bare legs, stinging ever so slightly, making me reconsider my decision to wear a skirt. 

My feet remained rooted to the ground, but my mind wandered back to the future in 2023. It was a painful picture painted before my eyes, which I could see with a hurtful clarity in my mind. My warm hands holding Sunjae's hands, that had gone cold. How my heart ached to even think of it. And the doctor's formal sympathy while telling me he passed away...

"Eunyoung?" asked a soft, gentle voice behind me. I turned around, my face melting into a smile on seeing Sunjae looking at me with his earnest, beady eyes, "What're you doing out here? Everyone's sitting near that stage thing and chatting."

"I was just looking around," I told him. My silly heart begun beating faster as he came to stand beside me, looking at the scenery, admiring the miracle of nature. I turned to do the same, and strangely enough, it all looked much more beautiful with Sunjae by my side. My shivering had ceased, replaced with a comforting warmth. I felt the blood rushing into my cheeks when I realized he stood with his elbows resting on the fence, just like mine, just close enough to touch.

"It's so beautiful," I breathed out.

"It is," I heard him say. My heart nearly jumped out of my chest when I turned to see him looking right at me. I could hear the thumping of my heart in my head like a steady drum beat. Goosebumps erupted on my skin. 

Can I really let myself believe this? After all that has happened? It all felt like a dream.

"Aren't you cold?"

"I am, but it's o-"

Before I could finish talking, he began taking off the jacket draped around his shoulders. I went completely, silent, watching him in awe. Had he always been this thoughtful? Nothing felt real. He leaned towards me, ever so slowly, maintaining minimal distance while he gently tied his jacket around my waist. His face nearly touched mine, and I could feel his breath on my cheeks. That was the closest I had ever come to exploding on the spot.

"You're going to feel cold," I said, my voice barely a whisper.

"I'll be fine," he assured me with his dimpled smile.

How was I supposed to say no to that?

Narrator's Perspective

A few hours after arriving at the field trip destination, the entire area was buzzing with excitement. The sunset was as early as half past five; Once the place was enveloped in the darkness of the night, no one had felt so alive. There was a joyful chatter in every tent, students talking, getting to know each other, playing drinking games. Some had promptly gotten drunk already, making fools out of themselves while it entertained those around them.

Meanwhile, Yumi had finally had just about enough of Minjun's antics. He was definitely a stubborn fellow. "Doesn't he have anyone else to bother?!" she yelled out to no one in particular. To her surprise, her prayers were answered.

"What's the matter?" asked Taesung, who had overheard her desperate pleas.

Yumi stared at him blankly for a few moments. Unable to hold herself back in frustration, she blurted out, "Oh, you have no idea! Minjun sunbaenim won't leave me alone. Doesn't he have the brains to understand that I'm not interested?! Is he retarded or what? Can't he just leave me alone?! It's driving me insane!"

Taesung stared at her, blinking his eyes rapidly as if to process all that she had said at record speed. The truth was, that avoiding her all these weeks had been absolute torture for him. Yumi had been such a significant part of his life, and then suddenly, she wasn't. At this point, he was willing to do anything to be around her. And seeing her uncomfortable and distressed because of some guy made his insides burn with rage.

"I'll help you," he declared decisively.

"Help? Not even god can help me," she sighed, "How do you plan on doing it?"

"I'll be your boyfriend."

Those four words were immediately effective in snapping Yumi out of her frustrated and angry state to a state of awe. She stared at him agape, trying to figure out the meaning behind those words. Boyfriend; the word echoed over and over in her mind.

"What?!" she blurted out a bit too loudly. Some people turned to stare at them. Taesung held her wrist with a surprisingly soft and gentle touch and took her behind a tent where they could talk in peace.

"I didn't mean it like that," he said in a hopeless attempt to defend himself. He did, in fact mean exactly what he said. It was just that he chickened out and now was trying to cover up, "I meant I'll pretend to be your boyfriend till the crackpot leaves you alone."

The offer was too tempting. "Deal," Yumi breathed out.

💿

"Can't I take a shot as a punishment instead?" Yumi pleaded.

"Nope!" said the game organizer, "You have to!"

"I'll take two shots," Yumi made him a counteroffer, "Please!"

"Not at all," he said, refusing to settle, "Don't be a spoil sport!"

Yumi heaved a sigh of annoyance. Not only had she gotten dragged into a drinking game by one of the girls from her department, but the game also happened to be spin the bottle. Yumi wondered why, out of all the weird Korean drinking games, they decided on spin the bottle? And now she had to kiss Minjun. It felt so terribly unfair that she was about to lose her first kiss to him. 

As they both stood up, Yumi with hesitation and Minjun with eagerness that was uncomfortable, everyone began clapping and jeering with excitement. Why did they like watching people suffer?

Looking into Minjun's eyes with all the hatred in her body, she took a deep breath. "It doesn't even matter," she told herself, "Let's just get this over with."

Just as their lips were about to meet, sealing the moment forever, Yumi felt someone's grip on her wrist that made her stop immediately. Her wrist was caught mid-motion, the unexpected hold halting her in her tracks. The grip was firm, commanding her attention, yet impossibly gentle, as if afraid to harm her. She turned sharply, startled, and her breath caught as her gaze met Taesung's. His eyes held hers for a brief, electrifying moment—dark and intense, a silent storm brewing in their depths.

Before she could speak, before she could even fully process, she felt his lips crash onto hers, silencing every thought and scattering every word she might have said. The kiss was bold and unyielding, yet it carried an undercurrent of tenderness that left her breathless.

Her entire body ignited, a wave of warmth sweeping over her as if she were standing too close to the sun. It was a sensation unlike anything she had ever known—a perfect collision of chaos and calm. Instinctively, she leaned into him, surrendering to the moment, letting herself be swept away. His hand slid up to cradle the back of her neck, his fingers threading gently through her hair, grounding her amidst the whirlwind. His other hand rested lightly on her waist, the touch feather-soft yet searing, as if it left an imprint on her very soul.

Her heart pounded wildly, a frenzied rhythm that echoed in her ears, and she wondered if he could feel it, too. His lips were impossibly soft, softer than she had dared to imagine, their every movement deliberate, intoxicating, as though he were memorizing her with each kiss.

The world around them seemed to dissolve, its sounds and sights fading into oblivion until all that remained was the two of them, locked in this timeless moment. The press of his body against hers, the heat of his touch, the magnetic pull between them—it was everything, consuming her entirely.

Every fear, every doubt, every restraint she had ever held onto melted away. In his arms, she felt weightless, free, as though nothing else mattered but this—their shared breath, their entwined hands, and the unspoken emotions that passed between them like a secret only they could understand.

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

nana's notes: bet you didn't see that coming

delphi's notes: FINALLYYYYYYYYY

next chapter: saturday list of chapters here!

xli. threads of fate and regret

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CHAPTER FORTY-ONE ─ threads of fate and regret.

❛ you stood there in front of me, just close enough to touch ❜

Ryu Sunjae's Perspective

Fireworks seemed to go off inside me when I walked into the interview room. A wave of deja vu hit me when the rapid thumping of my heart sounded in my ears just like the first time I found out that Eunyoung was going to interview me. Since the time I started preparing to release 'Sonaki,' all my past feelings slowly began resurfacing. I could envision myself, a lovestruck nineteen year old sitting in my bedroom and writing the song, thinking of Eunyoung and occasionally gazing at her window that was just in front of mine. I kept telling myself that it was just a memory in the past. I couldn't accept the fact that my feelings were exactly the same after fifteen long years.

It felt quite pathetic, to be honest. To think that I spent two years with her by my side, and still never had the guts to tell her how I felt filled me with insurmountable regret. I would have given anything to go back in time and hold on to her. 

Sitting across from her, responding to each question with careful, practiced formality, felt like the most challenging task of my entire career. With every carefully measured word, I felt my resolve slipping, as though the years we spent apart had only heightened this ache within me. It took every ounce of restraint not to close the distance between us, to forget the cameras and the professionalism and tell her just how much I'd missed her.

As I spoke about the song, Sonaki, describing it simply as a memory from my youth, my heart pounded with the urge to reveal the truth. There was a cruel irony in it all, sitting there explaining how the song was about my first love while she remained unaware that she was the muse behind every line, the inspiration behind every note. She was still, unknowingly, my everything.

In my mind, I could see myself breaking the silence, confessing it all—how she had stayed with me, haunting my every step and shaping every melody I'd written since. But in reality, I remained stoic, carefully choosing my words, my gaze avoiding her eyes for fear of giving it all away.

"I used to be a competitive swimmer back in high school. I remember despising it whenever it rained on my way home after a long day of training. But the day I met her was a rainy day. After that day, I mysteriously found myself unable to hate the rain any longer. It was magical, unlike anything I had experienced before," I said, pouring my heart out.

"That's such a beautiful way of expressing your feelings. I'm sure whoever she is would be touched to know it."

"Actually I never got a chance to express my feelings," I confessed with an embarrassed chuckle, "It was an unrequited love."

Choi Yumi's Perspective

I sat nervously shaking my leg in the police station. I had caved and agreed to meet Taesung to help him. The truth was that I wanted to understand him. I wanted to believe more than anything that he was innocent; And if I had the power to prove that he was, then I wanted to pour my heart into this case and win at any cost.

Taesung emerged from behind one of the doors, being dragged by one of the police officers who clutched his jacket with a death grip. The nostalgia was way too obvious for me to ignore. I found myself remembering the last time I saw him sitting across me. His hair was no longer wild and crazy like back then, but a sort of mischief shone in his eyes. A smirk that seemed to ridicule the man dragging him was plastered across his face.

The two sat down across from me, the man glaring at Taesung. For a good few moments I found myself staring at Taesung. Despite the dull, muted tones that replaced his bright biker jackets, he still looked as good as the first day I encountered him outside the music club. I found it quite unfair that I looked like a Tim Burtons character while he looked ready to start a photoshoot.

"So, you're going to help me or not?" he asked right away.

"Depends," I said skeptically, "How exactly did you get yourself into this mess?"

"I have no idea."

"You have to answer seriously or I can't help you."

"So if I answer seriously you'll help me?"

"Just answer the damn question," I sighed, realizing he was just as petty and childish as before, "I haven't got all day."

"My bad," he cleared his throat, "So you know my father is a detective in the Violent Crimes Division, right?"

"Yeah," I replied, feeling curious and anxious at the same time.

"One day he had to go to one of the places where Kim Youngsoo was allegedly hiding. But he suddenly fell sick that day. 102 degree fever; And look, I'm not the biggest fan of my dad, but I couldn't let him go there like that. That's why I went in his place. Then the guy who was supposed to be there with him never showed up."

"That's quite the story."

"I'm not done," he said, "I completed the investigation like he told me to, and I brought the report home. He gave it to the higher ups and everything was fine for a couple of days. Later, we found out that he messed up the dates and the other guy went the day after that. That's when they found my fingerprints all over the place. I tried to explain this to them but they refused to believe me and now I'm here. They don't believe my dad either."

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

nana's notes: writing sunjae's pov made me sob he loves her so much T_T when will it be my turn...

delphi's notes: leave it up to taesung to get into that kind of mess 👏

next chapter: saturday (out now!) list of chapters here

xxxiv. the rose that grew thorns

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CHAPTER THIRTY-FOUR ─ the rose that grew thorns.

❛ my heart only wants you the moment you say no ❜

Narrator's Perspective

To Yumi, it seemed like all she did was stand and wait since she time travelled for the second time. But what other choice did she have? If she was completely honest with herself, she envied Sunjae and Eunyoung's instant connection. Things just seemed to fall into place for them. Not that they were completely carefree, though.

So, once again, she stood among the sea of students dispersing from school. The sun shone it's piercing rays over the campus, and the cheery chatter that filled the air along with the insane humidity was already giving Yumi a migraine. Her eyes searched the crowd for a messy-haired, cat-faced boy in a blinding biker jacket. 

The moment she spotted him, her eyes lit up, and her lethargic posture on the bench suddenly became erect as she practically sprinted across the street. "Taesung!"

He turned sharply to look at her, his expression as grim as ever.

"Look, I'm sorry for-"

"What the hell's the matter with you?!" he snapped at her, his face twisting with rage, "I don't know what sick prank you're playing with me. What exactly are you sorry for? That your mother comes and yells at me at seven in the morning?"

"Taesung, what?" Yumi tried to ask, her mind in utter confusion.

"She comes up to me before school, threatens me not to come near you or she would file a restraining order. And you come up to me not once, but twice, to apologize?" He said the last part like a question, as if it was just that shocking, "You're the one who asked me to piss off, so here I am, minding my own business and then you appear out of nowhere saying shit that barely makes sense. Look all I wanted to say is that it would be really great if you and your family stopped attacking me in the streets, thanks."

Heads were turning, and Yumi felt a lump in her throat and tears forming in her eyes. She lowered her head, and began walking away as her tears threatened to spill at any second.

Somewhere in the crowd, Eunyoung and Sunjae stood silently, watching the scene unfold before them. Eunyoung's heart twisted in pain. The story seemed to click in her mind as she came to a hurtful realization. Their mother must have overheard their conversation from the previous day.

"Sunjae I'm sorry, can we reschedule-" she began, but he cut her off.

"Go, go, I'll be fine, I swear," he urged. She said a quick thank you, running after Yumi.

 💿

Eunyoung unlocked the door to her house as fast as she could, rushing inside. When she stepped into the living room, her heart sank. Yumi was curled up on the couch, her knees drawn to her chest, sobbing uncontrollably. Without hesitation, Eunyoung hurried to her side, pulling her into a tight, comforting embrace. Yumi continued to weep into her shoulder, her tears soaking through Eunyoung's shirt.

Eunyoung had only seen her like this once before—when Yumi's mother had passed away. The sight of her closest friend in such deep pain tore at her heart. After what felt like forever, Yumi slowly pulled back, her voice trembling as she said, "It hurts, Eunyoung... it hurts so much. My chest feels like it's been stabbed, like there's a weight crushing it. I've... I've lost him, Eunyoung."

Tears filled Eunyoung's own eyes as she gently took Yumi's shaking hands in hers. "Oh, Yumi," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.

"I've hurt him so much... He hates me now- hell, I hate myself!" Yumi cried, her words broken by sobs. Her face was drenched in tears, her eyes swollen and red, the tip of her nose glowing. The raw pain in her voice and the way she trembled made Eunyoung's heart ache even more as Yumi's sorrow spilled out through her shaking sobs.

"It's not your fault, Yumi," Eunyoung assured her. Her own voice shook, but even that couldn't hide her genuine belief in those words, "None of it is your fault, Yumi. You have believe that. For me. And for mom. You know how much she cares about you and never wants to see you hurt or grieving. She's trying her best to protect you, Yumi. The accident was a horrible tragedy and it was nobody's fault that it happened."

"I ruined his life," Yumi continued to weep, her throat beginning to ache, "I should have never been here in the first place!"

Eunyoung had never felt as helpless as she had in that moment, watching Yumi cry achingly. She tried as hard as she could to wipe her own tears that blurred her vision. 

"At the hospital," Eunyoung began, trying to gather herself, "He checked with me a million times if you were going to be okay. He made sure you would be alright before shifting rooms. He really cares about you, Yumi, I mean it. He does care. You need to remember that. You need to cling to that hope."

 Eunyoung could practically hear Taesung's earnest voice in her ears.

"Eunyoung, hear me out for a minute. I know you, your mom and everyone hates me and I'm like number one on your hitlist, but I just need to know one thing and I swear I'll get lost. Is Yumi going to be alright? Just tell me that much, cause I NEED to know. You just need to tell me that much and then I'm going to shift rooms. I promise I won't interfere with her life EVER again."

Yumi's sobbing reduced a little bit, and Eunyoung saw it as a small victory as she saw a little light returning to Yumi's swollen eyes.

"I really want to believe that," Yumi whispered.

"You should," Eunyoung affirmed, "Because it's true."

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

nana's notes: sunjae being the considerate king that he is <3

delphi's notes: TAESUNG NOOOOOOO

next chapter: friday (out now!) list of chapters here!

xxx. the memory of you

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

CHAPTER THIRTY ─ the memory of you.

❛ i miss the old ways, you didn't have to change, but i guess i don't have a say now that we don't talk ❜

Kim Taesung's Perspective

I felt my heart drop the moment the woman who was supposedly waiting for me turned around. I barely recognized her at first; But my memories of her must have been etched into my brain permanently, because a part of me knew. That it was her. Her long and flowing hair was no more, and the only part of it left hung over her shoulders. As I stood there in front of her, staring, I found myself entranced by her face, just like I had all those years ago. I had seen her for the very first time at the music club, and the incident replayed in front of my eyes as if it took place only yesterday. Our eyes met- ever so briefly, and it was as if fireworks had gone off. Her features still held the same harmony- soft, with a air of gentility, yet they had an inexplicable charisma that captivated me.

I could practically feel my heart pounding in my head. My hand had begun trembling. I continued gazing into her eyes, trying way too hard to avoid the scar on the right side of her face. I practically had to tear my eyes away because my heart and soul ached as if they were being pierced by a thousand needles. There was that same emptiness in her eyes that always perplexed me. It made me so curious. What could she have possibly gone through for her eyes to look so lifeless and miserable. I wanted to know so badly. I wanted to know her better, and I failed to do it every time.

Our eyes met again after some stupid formal dialogue, the sound of which was drowned out by the deafening sound of the frantic beating of my heart. I felt like I was back in my teenage body, staring at her from afar and overthinking the gift she gave me- that I bought over and over again for years. The flush on my face must have been so obvious and for a second I almost felt sorry for my colleague who stood and watched us in confusion. My gaze shifted to her scar again, and I had to look away from her entirely because of the pain I felt in my chest. It was as if someone had ripped my heart out of my body and broken it in a million parts like it was made of glass. 

The truth was that I blamed myself to this day. There was nothing that I regretted more than failing to protect her. In hindsight, I wondered how things would have turned out if I just followed basic safety protocol. What was I thinking? Riding a bike with no helmet? That too with someone I cared about. I would give up anything to go back in time and fix it. Would that have fixed everything?

On my way home, the only thought that occupied me was that despite everything that had happened- the time that had passed, and the very obvious scar on Yumi's face, she was still just as pretty as fifteen years ago. That's the thing that made me feel ridiculous; In front of Choi Yumi, I was just a nineteen year old boy with a stupid crush.

Choi Yumi's Perspective

I sat in my room, staring at the floor, lost in thought. It was insane. I had endless questions that could never be silenced. How had I run into Taesung in this timeline? Why and how did he end up become a police officer...

Then, something inside me clicked

A familiar face flashed in front of me- Gahyun, the crazy bitch obsessed with Taesung. Her screaming voice and her shaking hands pointing to me in accusation appeared in front of me.

"You!" she shrieked. Her hollering voice echoed and rippled through the previously quiet, still hospital halls. The other patients shrunk back, closed their curtains to avoid looking at the scene she was causing and others went to call for help.

"What do you want?" I sighed, "And for god's sake lower your volume."

"You're the reason my Taesung is injured!" she continued yelling, "If it weren't for you, he would be perfectly healthy at home! Now- all thanks to you, he's going to have that hideous scar on his shoulder! Ugh, it's all your fault! How could you be so selfish?!"

A fire began burning inside me that started as a spark then exploded in an instant as I cried out with tears of agony forming in my eyes, "Don't you dare pretend like you know shit! He CHOSE to drop me. In case you haven't noticed, this damn thing on my face is going to be permanent. God, just stay out of it! You don't deserve to come here and yell at ME and cause a scene! Get out!"

My breathing became erratic, and it was as if steam was coming out through my ears. I was furious. Not because she was crushing on the same stupid teenage boy as me. Because of how right she was. If it wasn't for me, Taesung would be okay.

"Yumi, is everything alright?" asked a concerned Eunyoung who had just returned home, looking even more miserable than me.

"I remember everything now," I said, feeling dazed and confused, but at the same time things seemed to make more sense, "Did we really yell in the hospital like that?"

"Oh, yeah," she tried to tell me gently, "Everyone heard."

"God."

I ran a hand down my face, sighing for what must have been the millionth time that day, "What's up with you?" I asked, trying to change the subject.

"Don't even ask," she responded, sighing, "Sunjae's death was suicide."

I suddenly sat up straight, my ears perking up. The word seemed to crash right on my head as my chest began feeling tight. I never spoke about it, but my mother's death haunted me to this day. She couldn't endure the abuse from my father and ended her own life. I was too young to understand it when it happened, but it dawned on me now. The thought that I was not very different, that I would turn out the same made me cower in fear every time I thought about it.

I pulled Eunyoung into an embrace, and I could feel her surprise to my impulsive action. "I'm sorry," I whispered. The room was then filled with the sound of our breathing and the soft banging of the snow against the window.

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

nana's notes: wonyoung's face card in the header tho-

delphi's notes: taesung having a whole melancholic monologue is everything.

next chapter: friday (out now!) list of chapters here!

xxix. blackout

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CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE ─ blackout.

❛ life is emotionally abusive and time can't stop me quite like you did ❜

Choi Yumi's Perspective

My eyes scanned my surroundings. White walls, busy chattering, phones ringing everywhere and a sense of urgency and busyness in the air. A police station. I looked down at myself. I was back in my formal attire- trousers, white shirt, blazer, that kind of stuff. Although I may have looked normal on the outside, I felt weird. I had never felt this way since my first day of work, and I could scarcely describe the feeling. Everything seemed new, and foreign, even though it was the same work I had done for most of my adult life. Maybe it was nostalgia because of the strange ache and longing in my heart.

Being a lawyer wasn't something I enjoyed. In fact, the last thing I enjoyed... I don't even want to think about it. I would feel a rush of adrenaline after winning a case, then the sense of emptiness would soon return to engulf me. It was an endless cycle that I was stuck in. 

There are certain cases that I receive that require me to go to the police station. This was one of them. I fiddled my thumbs anxiously- as if it was my first day on the job. I felt like an idiot; Which usually means something out of the ordinary was about to happen, so I braced myself accordingly. I had previously met the police when they came to my law firm, but today I had to meet a detective because it was a case of murder.

All of a sudden, an extremely familiar fragrance hit my nose. It came so unexpectedly that I nearly convinced myself that I was imagining it; but the reality was so evident. Slightly woody notes, like sun-warmed cedarwood and a sudden freshness, as if I was standing on a beach at dawn. The air around me was left fresh and alive and the scent was intoxicating and my mind wandered back to the first time I smelled it. It was almost as if I was back in high school, standing in the perfume shop, carefully picking out the perfect present.

I stood up, and taking a second to steady myself, I turned around rapidly to find myself face to face with a face even more familiar than the fragrance. I was met with those same beady cat eyes, but they seemed to have lost their spark. Kim Taesung. A voice in my head whispered his name, trying to grasp the reality in front of me. His disheveled hair had become tamer, and his bright and colorful apparel was replaced with hues of grey and black with a splash of olive green. He looked dull and dejected, and the glint of mischief had disappeared from his eyes. I had recognized him instantly, because his face had been imprinted in my mind. The rapid beating of my heart sounded in my ears, just like it had fifteen years ago. Yet, he looked like a completely different person. It was like someone had switched off the lights inside him.

"Choi Yumi?" he said it like a question mark, his eyebrows raised slightly.

"Do you two know each other?" the police officer behind him asked, confused. For a moment, his words his words faded away and I stood entranced before Kim Taesung, staring blankly. I felt the same I had the first time I saw him. But now, there was a rift between us that was too evident. He seemed so far away even though he was right in front of me. Something that was once new, fresh and full of hope had withered like flowers during the winter. 

"It's been a while," I said, snapping out of my trance, my lips curling upwards ever so slightly. My hand reached up subconsciously to rub the back of my neck.

He simply nodded, shifting his gaze at the ground and his effort to keep it professional was evident, and I would have laughed if I could, but I kept my lips zipped shut when the sound disappeared on the tip of my tongue.

The police officer who I had previously met (who's name I had already forgotten) looked at me curiously, probably hoping I could answer his earlier question.

"We went to the same high school," I told him curtly, plastering a fake smile and turning to look at Taesung, but never meeting his gaze. My eyes glazed over the badge on his jacket. Violent Crimes Division. It felt surreal that he had become a detective- just like his dad. 

Then, suddenly, our eyes met, and time seemed to freeze that exact moment. They're so dull. I thought to myself. I couldn't get over how depressed his eyes looked, like the spark had disappeared. They looked like they were crying out for help. It pained me to look at him that way, and a small part of me pointed an accusing finger at me. Was it my fault? Another voice in my head said that it was unfair. And that he didn't deserve to feel sad. I watched as his eyes shifted to the scar on my face, then shifted back to my eyes, as if he couldn't bear to look at my eyes. The look of pity on his face made me want to cry and scream.

I tore my eyes away, looking at the other police officer. I stole a quick glance at his badge, then said with my best professional smile, "Shall we begin?"

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

nana's notes: not yumi forgetting the other police officer's name 😭✋

delphi's notes: and this kids is why adulthood fucking suuuucks.(this pair of adults are not the best example though)

next chapter: saturday (out now!) list of chapters here!

xxvii. dead end

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CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN ─ dead end.

❛ remember when we hit the brakes too soon? twenty stiches in a hospital room ❜

Choi Yumi's Perspective

I dragged my feet across the pavement, walking unwillingly towards the school gate. My hands clutched my backpack tightly as I sighed for the fifth time since I got off the bus. My eyes fixated on the ground while my mind was filled with echoes of what I said to Eunyoung the previous day.

"You're not even my real sister, so why does it matter?!" I had yelled out stupidly. How could I have been so thoughtless? I clearly remember the instant wave of regret that washed over me the next second after those words left my mouth. It was true that Eunyoung had been getting on my nerves. But what I said was completely out of line. We'd been friends our whole lives, and I always considered Eunyoung my sister. My own family abandoned me; my abusive father refused to take care of me after my mom took her own life. Eunyoung's family treated me like their daughter, and this is what I say to her?

"Are you auditioning for the role of a haunted spirit in a horror movie?" piped a familiar voice. I whipped my head around and my tensed shoulders relaxed when I saw it was Taesung, "Because if you are, you're doing an amazing job."

"Hi," I sighed, still half occupied by my thoughts. For a while, we walked in silence, the only sound was that of our footsteps against the road.

"Did your sister totally fire you yesterday?" he asked me.

"She was asleep when I reached home yesterday," said my lifeless voice, "I left early today because I couldn't get myself to face her. I feel like shit."

"That's what you get," he sneered mockingly, "I would have slapped someone across the face if they said that to me."

"You're making me feel a lot better, thanks," Even though my eyebrows were frowning, I couldn't fight the smile tugging at my lips as my heart felt infinitely lighter.

Narrator's Perspective

This particular morning, a strange, still silence hung over the living room. Neither Eunyoung nor her mother spoke a word to each other, and the soft sound of utensils clanking against each other was as loud as ever. Eunyoung's mother pondered over what could possibly be the reason behind Eunyoung's sudden quietness, and Eunyoung's thoughts circled back to Yumi's words no matter how hard she tried to distract herself.

She felt completely pathetic and idiotic, her chest tightening with a wave of disappointment. How had she been so blind? She had always believed that their friendship was built on trust, mutual respect, and a deep sense of loyalty. But now, in the cold light of Yumi's indifference, it was clear she had misread everything. The way Yumi dismissed her concerns, her casual disregard for the years they had spent together, made her stomach churn with a bitter sense of betrayal. She never thought that their bond could hold such little value in Yumi's eyes. To think that something she cherished so deeply had meant so little to her friend was a blow she wasn't prepared for, and the unwelcome realization left her feeling utterly alone. 

"Can I stay home today?" Eunyoung's meek voice asked.

"Why?" countered her mom, the words full of concern, "Are you not feeling well?"

"Yeah, I'm not feeling too great."

Eunyoung's mom took the seat next to her, placing a hand on her shoulder, "Are you an Yumi in a fight?"

Eunyoung's jaw dropped as she exclaimed in shock, "How?!"

Eunyoung's mom smiled knowingly, then chuckling at the disbelief on her daughter's face. "Do all mothers have telepathic abilities or are you special?" she demanded.

"I think it's a Choi family thing," said her mother, "Your grandmother did this all the time, and it drove me nuts."

"Grandma is practically a witch," said Eunyoung, her voice cheerier than before.

"I'm gonna tell her you said that."

"Don't you dare!"

The previously empty living room was now filled with the lively sounds of their giggles. Once the silence returned, Eunyoung's mother held her daughter in a silent embrace, "You can stay home today- as long as you're sure you won't regret it tomorrow."

"We both screwed up," Eunyoung said in a whisper.

"Shhh... I know."

Moms really do have superpowers.

💿

"Oh god, look at the time!" Yumi cried out.

"Are you saying that because you're bored?" asked Taesung, slightly hurt, "It's only been an hour."

"No, I'm serious, look at the time," she said, pointing to the clock.

"Oh my god it's already 8?!" he exclaimed, a hint of disappointment showing through his tone. He turned to look at Yumi, and that's when he realized how close they were sitting. Soon, the living room was filled with the soft sound of their breath. Their eyes met, continuing to stare at each other for god knows how long. Yumi could feel her face getting warmer as her grip on the guitar tightened. Taesung's arm lightly brushed hers, and for a split second it was as if sparks went off and they both pulled away hastily. 

Taesung stood up abruptly, clearing his throat in a way that was so obviously fake that even a deaf person could see through his mediocre acting attempt. Yumi placed the guitar on its place on the wall and began gathering her stuff, desperately trying to ignore the thumping of her heart.

Choi Yumi's Perspective

The engine of Taesung's motorcycle hummed beneath me as we sped down the quiet streets. I tightened my grip around his waist, feeling the warmth of his body through his jacket. The wind rushed past, lifting my hair and tossing it wildly behind me, the cool breeze tickling my neck and cheeks. It felt exhilarating, the way the air seemed to carry all my thoughts away, but at the same time, my heart pounded louder than the engine.

I could feel the heat rising in my cheeks, partly from the wind but mostly from the way my chest was pressed against his back. The closeness was overwhelming, making me acutely aware of every little movement—how his muscles tensed as he steered, how his scent mixed with the fresh night air. I lowered my head, burying my face against his shoulder to hide my embarrassment, hoping he didn't notice how stiff I was with nerves.

I wasn't used to this—being so close to him, feeling every shift of his body under my hands. Every time the bike turned a corner, I clung a little tighter, my heart fluttering, both from the thrill of the ride and from the proximity I wasn't sure how to handle.

"Are you sure this is alright?" I asked him when I realized that we were both without helmets.

"Yeah, it's short distance," he said on a whim, but his carefree tone did nothing to ease my anxieties. I felt a pit in my stomach, like my gut was trying to tell me something. Or maybe I was just hungry.

Suddenly, there was a whirring noise and I lifted my head to see where it was coming from. My eyes landed on a white taxi, driving in the wrong direction, charging straight towards us. "Taesung, Taesung look-" I must have screamed in his ear. The bright, white headlights seemed to be blinding me as I squinted, then it was as if the world began spinning. There was barely any sensation in my body. The last thing I felt was my head hitting the pavement and a splash of red as the world around me disappeared.

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

nana's notes: karma bit yumi's ass

delphi's notes: moral of the story; Always trust your gut!

next chapter: saturday (out now!) list of chapters here!

xxiv. the start of something new

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR ─ the start of something new.

❛ you know i want you bad,  show me mercy ❜

Narrator's Perspective

"Where were you last night?" Eunyoung asked Yumi as they got on the bus. She couldn't shake off the feeling that she had been kept in the dark about something. Yumi choked out a mock cough to cover up her gasp. She was really hoping to avoid any confrontation- because she hadn't decided how she would deal with it.

Yumi remained silent till they took their usual seat at the back of the bus. Her eyes blinked rapidly, darting from one side to another, frantically trying to come up with an alibi.

"I had plans, so I ate out," she said vaguely; but she knew it wasn't a satisfactory answer.

"Plans with who?" Eunyoung chuckled mockingly, "Since when did you have friends?"

"How nice of you to say that," Yumi snapped sarcastically, "I do have friends now; times change."

"Sure they do," Eunyoung mumbled. It was just a playful comment, but Yumi's words stung more than they should have. After all, there had never been secrets between them. Curiosity grew in her mind as she pondered what could possibly be the secret that Yumi was so determined to keep from her.

💿

"Hey, Eunyoung!"a familiar voice called out to her as she was heading to the newspaper room. She stopped, then turned to find Kim Harin running towards her. It was like a reminder that she had travelled back in time, and hadn't seen these people in ages. It made her reminisce of all the people she once knew, but didn't keep in touch with; and she couldn't help but feel sorry that there was a point where they weren't a part of her life anymore.

Harin had been Eunyoung's closest friend, apart from Yumi, who worked at the newspaper just like her.

"God! I haven't seen you in ages!" she chirped, walking alongside Eunyoung towards the newspaper room, "But it made me realize that I have a popular friend."

"What do you mean?"

"Don't you know?" she asked inquisitively, "People gossip about you all the time. I heard about how you rejected Jihoon sunbae. Someone sitting behind me was going on about how she wondered where you got the audacity from. Honestly, I'm glad you did it. Someone had to put him in his place."

"I didn't know people made such a fuss," said Eunyoung, gazing blankly at the empty corridor before them, "But then, again, nothing ever happens around here."

"I know right?! They're just desperate for entertainment," she agreed enthusiastically, "Enough with the gossip, now. I read your article on the swim team and it was fabulous! I can't imagine anyone who could have done it better."

"Thanks," said Eunyoung with a wide grin, "I'm so glad you liked it. I'm also grateful that someone appreciates my writing. You know it means a lot, right?"

"Of course! But I was only stating the facts; There's no one better than you on our team," she beamed.

I couldn't hide my smile as I entered the newspaper room. God knows for how long I was grinning; But one thing I know for sure, is that my childhood was a magical time.

💿

Choi Yumi's Perspective

My feet felt rooted to the ground as I stood before Kim Taesung's front door. It was as if I was paralysed. A million questions swirled through my mind; Was this really a good idea? What would Eunyoung say if she knew what I was up to? Why was I here? Every cell in my body was screaming at me to run away- go home! But I just couldn't; I couldn't take a step forward either.

Suddenly, my hand reached up to slap my face lightly. I realized that what I needed to do was start acting sane. This wasn't a big deal. I was just learning something new, and a friend of mine was helping me out. I heaved a sigh at my odd behaviour and pressed the doorbell.

I cracked my knuckles nervously as I heard footsteps nearing the door. I nearly fell backwards when the door swung open to reveal Taesung's face that stretched into a dimpled grin on seeing me, "You're here, piano girl?"

"I sure am," I said, trying to hide the awkwardness in my voice. It was at moments like this that I realised that among Eunyoung and I, god gave all the social skills to her; even though we weren't related.

He stepped aside, "Come in. And unclench your fists while you're at it. It makes me feel unsafe."

💿

"Put your index finger here."

"Here?"

"Yup. And then your middle finger here- yeah."

"Now?"

"Your ring finger has to be here."

"Is this right?" I asked Taesung. I had lost track of time as minutes slipped through my fingers while I sat in his living room. The silence that was once deafening at the start of our guitar lesson had now turned comfortable. The room would go silent every time we stopped talking and the room would be filled with the soft sound of our breathing. 

Just as I was getting less jittery, I looked up at Taesung who was already looking at me with his beady eyes. We were sitting so close. His arm held the guitar in my hand, brushing against my back ever so slightly. In my determination and focus, I never batted an eye at our proximity and I suddenly became conscious of it.  I felt my breath hitch as a warmth crept up my face. Once again, an unnatural stillness settled in the room. The both of us seemed to be holding our breaths, waiting. 

I tore away first, fixing my gaze on the coffee table in front of the couch, letting go of the guitar. He lunged to prevent it from crashing to the floor, "It's only your first lesson. I think it's a bit early to break the guitar so soon, don't you?"

Any reply I may have come up with me disappeared on the tip of my tongue.

"It's six-thirty already, should we call it a day?" he asked, looking at the clock.

"Yeah..." I replied, wide-eyed, "I'll see you tomorrow?"

"Unless you run away," he said, "And considering that look on your face, I would say it's very likely."

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

nana's notes: eunyoung having her nostalgia moment and then yumi's having a quarter-life crisis.

delphi's notes: a cookie to the person who guesses where the lyrics are from.

next chapter: friday (out now!) list of chapters here!

xxii. you and me and awkward silence

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO ─ you and me and awkward silence.

❛ don't you notice how i get quiet when there's no one else around? ❜

Narrator's Perspective

"Why are you all standing like that?" Taesung asked his friends who stood on the other side of the safety door of his house.

Taesung's birthday had arrived at last, and his friends' plan of throwing him a surprise party had fallen into place. Yumi stood at the front- against her will, for Inhyuk had pushed her ahead while everyone fumbled. The Eclipse members and Sunjae held balloons in their hands, and Yumi held the box containing the cake and a small paper bag.

All she could do was stare at his face as he repeated his question impatiently. Realising Yumi wasn't responding, Inhyuk jumped in and exclaimed, "Happy birthday! Did you think we'd forget?!"

A slow smile appeared on Taesung's face as he chuckled in disbelief. His hand reached for the doorknob, which he pushed open. The party was not a large one- the members of Eclipse, Sunjae and Yumi, but it was a meaningful one. They entered his house one by one, as Taesung stepped aside to make way. While everyone else dispersed, putting up the balloons, Yumi stood frozen before him, staring blankly, "Happy birthday," she uttered quietly.

Taesung stood motionless for a brief moment, admiring the girl in front of him. Her voice sounded like music in his ears. His eyes remained fixed on her, unable to pull away. She was dressed in a baby blue dress that hovered above her knees. The dress was sleeveless, drawing attention to her graceful arms, and it boasted a sweetheart neckline that framed her collarbone beautifully.

"Thanks," he smiled, "I'm glad you're here, piano girl."

There it was again. That nickname. Yumi thought to herself, clearing her throat. It took all the willpower in her not to misinterpret his words. What did he really mean? Plus it was really hard to focus with him standing right in front of her. She couldn't bring herself to look away from him. He was dressed in a simple monochromatic outfit- black jeans and a plain white t-shirt, and it was evident that he wasn't expecting company. Yet, there she was, staring. She moved past him, placing the cake on the coffee table in front of the couch.

"Is that for me?" he snapped her out of her thoughts, gesturing to the bag dangling from her wrist. 

"Huh?" she blurted out, "Oh, right! I got you a little something."

"What is it?" he asked as he peeked into the bag after she handed it to him. 

"Look at it later!" she spoke more urgently than she intended to. Taesung's face twisted into a confused frown, setting the bag aside for time being. His suspicion was evident through his expression, and Yumi realized that she had pretty much shot herself in the foot. A blush surfaced on her face from embarassment as she moved to where everyone else was standing.

Why am I even here? She wondered. She barely knew these people. Yet a part of her wanted to be there for him. How heartbreaking was it that his parents couldn't be there for their only son's birthday? Yumi wondered if what she felt for him was pity or something more? Yumi pushed the thought away, refusing to explore it further. It was too terrifying, too soon. She prayed she'd never have to confront those feelings.

Choi Yumi's Perspective

It was as if  I had zoned out for the entire duration of the party. I think this was my fatal flaw. I spent to much time thinking. I never took action. I just sat and thought. And thought. And thought some more until even I was afraid of my thoughts. Before I knew it, everyone had left, leaving me alone with Taesung. The thought made me want to dig a hole in the ground and bury my head in it. I told myself that since I was the only one there, I should help clean up the mess. Yet, in the back of my mind, I knew that every moment spent with him was special.

"You don't have to stay," he remarked, breaking the awkward silence that previously filled the room, "It's getting late."

"Are you kicking me out?" I asked with a hint of hostility in my voice, "I want to help."

"Who am I to argue with you?" asked to no one in particular.

We worked in silence, neither of us knowing how to start another conversation. I realised what a horrifying thing it was to be alone with my thoughts- especially with him around. Why was I behaving like this? It's not like I'm a teenage girl- I mean, I am, but I'm not at the same time. Half of me wished I could go back to my time and everything would be normal. I would be working at a miserable law firm, just like I studied for; But there was another part of me that kept stealing glances at Taesung as we picked up the trash from the wooden floors. 

What the hell is wrong with me?!

After we finished picking up the confetti and remains of the balloons (that had been popped by our small yet lively party), we stood in the living room, which had now become devoid of any evidence that it was full of liveliness a while ago.  My gaze wandered around the room and I stood completely still as if my feet were rooted to the ground. My eyes finally fixed on the green guitar placed against the wall. It was as if I was hypnotized by it as I took an unconscious step towards it.

"Do you like it?" he asked, as I tore my eyes away.

"What?"

"Do you like the guitar?" he repeated himself, the corners of his lips tugging at a smile. 

"Ummm," I stuttered, "I... I guess so? It's a nice guitar."

"Do you play?"

"No."

"Do you want to?"

I suddenly found myself unable to answer his seemingly simple question. I froze there, my stubborn voice refusing to speak. The truth is, that I felt drawn to the guitar. It was something new and exciting. I took another look at it; It was as if it had been calling my name this whole time.

"I can teach you if you like," he offered, and I thought he might have observed the manner in which I was staring at his guitar.

"Right now?" I said with too much enthusiasm. I bit my lip- was it too much?

"I mean, if you really want to," he stammered out, taken aback by my sudden display of eagerness.

I glanced at the clock, "It's already 9 o' clock," I observed.

"You're right. I should let you go home," he realized, "We can meet after music club practice tomorrow. If that's okay with you?"

"But it closes at 5," I frowned, "Where will we go?"

He thought about it for a brief moment, "How 'bout you come here?" I felt heat rise up my cheeks, "Here?" I asked, trying to figure out if I misheard him.

"My dad is usually not at home, so we won't have any disturbance," he explained.

"Sure," I agreed, trying my best to sound nonchalant.

It was almost as if I was breathless. What do I call this feeling?

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

nana's notes: the tension between yumi and the guitar-

delphi's notes: something is brewing...

next chapter: friday (out now!) list of chapters here!

xv. echoes of yesterday

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

CHAPTER FIFTEEN ─ echoes of yesterday.

❛ if i may just take your breath away, i don't mind if there's not much to say. ❜

Narrator's Perspective

"Eunyoung?" Inhyuk called out her name as she turned to look at him, "I thought you might be here."

Eunyoung stared at him blankly for a few moments, trying to figure out who he was, until she realised he was Inhyuk. Her eyebrows shot up in a moment of realization, "Oh it's you, Inhyuk! You were at Sunjae's swimming competition, right?"

"Yeah that's me," he breathed out, "I'm surprised you remember."

"I have a good memory," Eunyoung smiled politely, "Sunjae stayed over at your place, didn't he?"

Inhyuk nodded in agreement, "You're right, he did. He didn't come to school today."

"I figured," there was a bittersweet taste on her tongue as she recalled the various events of the previous day, "How's he feeling? He was heartbroken yesterday; first the doctor's words then his father's..."

"He won't tell me anything," Inhyuk complained, frowning, "He only told me about his shoulder."

"He couldn't get himself to talk to his dad about it," explained Eunyoung, looking down as she recalled the conversation she overheard, "Can you try to get him to tell his dad? He needs to know. Sunjae might act tough, but these are though times, and he needs all the support he can get."

"I will," Inhyuk assured. After a pause, he added, "Sunjae's really grateful for your support too. He didn't say much, but he mentioned how you were there for him. I wanted to say thanks from his behalf."

"There's no need to thank me," Eunyoung smiled, "What are friends for?"

Kim Taesung's Perspective

I caught a glimpse of Yumi from accross the fence dividing the boys and girls schools. My gaze fixed on her face; Her long hair fell messily on her shoulders, the breeze sending a few strands flying in random directions. A wide smile lit up her face as she laughed with her friend. The cigarette from my hand fell to the ground as my grip loosened without meaning to. Its soft thump on the pavement broke my focus and I put it out with my foot.

The lunch bell clanged, jarring me back to reality. I blinked, the bustling crowd of students a harsh contrast to the empty space where Yumi had stood moments ago. My feet, traitors that they were, hadn't moved an inch while I was lost in the memory of her.  An inexplainable feeling lingered in my heart, recalling the last time I encountered her. Her hair seemed to fall perfectly and her face seemed to be sculpted by the gods.

"Maybe I should quit smoking..."

💿

I found myself becoming increasingly foolish as I acted on impulse rather than rational thinking. To be fair, I had made quite a few impromtu descisions that didn't turn out in the best way; But this was different. Since I started taking my motorcycle to school, I had always taken a shortcut, which allowed me to reach home within fifteen minutes. It was quick and convinient, and it had worked for me.

The final strains of band practice faded into the background, a dull ache settling in my fingers from the worn strings of my guitar. Today, however, the usual post-practice routine held no appeal. Instead, a strange compulsion tugged at me, leading my feet towards the unfamiliarity of the music club exit.

There, I lurked like a lovesick fool in a bad spy movie, trying my hardest to appear nonchalant. Every fiber of my being screamed "obvious stalker," but dammit, if my Oscar-worthy performance didn't deserve an award. 

The bus doors hissed open as Yumi momentariy dissapeared from my sight. My heart hammered a frantic rhythm against my ribs as I raced to my bike, a silent vow forming on my lips. "Stay cool," I muttered, the words muffled by the helmet that encased my head. "Just a casual bike ride on a beautiful day, nothing suspicious to see here."

Except, the day wasn't particularly beautiful, the traffic was a congested nightmare, and my definition of "casual" had never involved weaving recklessly between lanes, desperately trying to keep the bus in sight. Finally, a sliver of victory – I found myself gliding beside Yumi's window, mirroring her movements on two wheels.

A ghost of a smile played on my lips, hidden beneath the confines of the helmet. Her profile was a masterpiece, framed by the bustling cityscape. Yet, a pang of guilt twisted in my gut. Was this the kind of guy I wanted to be? A creepy stalker on a bicycle? Or maybe, just maybe, there was a fine line between devotion and desperation, and I was teetering precariously on the edge.

Narrator's Perspective

"Since mom wasn't home last night, Sunjae and I came upstairs. We sat there talking for sometime, and then it almost seemed like he was going to..." Eunyoung's voice trailed off as the scene replayed in her mind. Warmth crept up her face, recalling their proximity. Thinking of the moment now felt like it was a fragment of her imagination as she questioned whether it really happened. The real question, a silent scream echoing in the chambers of her heart, was: had she truly fallen for him? This wasn't the blind adoration she'd felt for him back in her "Eclipse" phase, a time when his brooding good looks and mysterious aura had captivated her from afar. This was different. This was a closeness born of shared secrets, whispered conversations in the dead of night, and a connection that transcended the superficial.

"What?" Yumi inquired, itching with curiosity, "Can you stop trailing off like that? You've done that too many times. I'm starting to question your storytelling skills."

"Nothing," Eunyoung evaded the topic entirely, not wanting to get caught up in her emotions, "It's not important. I'm really worried now. Can I really change things? Do I have that kind of power or was I lying to myself this whole time? I'm afraid of loosing him now more than ever. I'm scared, Yumi."

Yumi placed a supportive hand on Eunyoung's shoulder, "You really think it was a coincidence that you came here with the help of Sunjae's signed CD after Sunjae's death? It's not over yet, trust me."

☾⋆｡𖦹 °✩⋆｡° ✮

nayoung's notes: yumi being the supportive bestie that she is. hope u liked thiss!

delphi's notes: fRiEnds you sayyyy.

next chapter: saturday (out now!) (sorry for the late update) list of chapters here!

winter wonders

girlfriend!minji x fem!reader

synopsis: a cozy christmas eve with cinnamon, cocoa, and peppermint sets the stage as yn spends the evening with minji and her family. amid festive decorations and shared moments, they navigate love, family dynamics, and their evolving relationship. between gingerbread decorating and intimate conversations, yn begins to feel like part of something bigger, but the night ends with a playful reminder that love doesn’t always follow the rules.

warnings: implied insecurity and unhappy family?; other than that none i guess it's just fluff :3

a/n: AHAHA back with another masterpiece (i hope) i’m trying a new writing style which are just basically my rawest thoughts so yeah this is very raw :D i hope you enjoy reading though. (early) merry christmas every1☃️🎄

a warm blend of cinnamon, hot cocoa, and peppermint fills my cozy apatment’s air. christmas is coming. the decorations have been set up, the trees have been decorated, and the gingerbreads were about to be frosted. i’m in my kitchen, still waiting for minji to come in through my apartment door with her smiley face, it’s 5PM, she should’ve done with her work. three minutes into the thought, the girl that had been occupying my mind finally arrives.

“ynn!” she excitedly exclaims my name with her hands up in the air. oh, she brought potter. i immediately handed minji her apron after giving her a quick peck on the lips. how was your day? i was meaning to ask before seeing her furrowed eyebrows and pouty lips, i grinned at the sight and get back to decoraring before she sense my gaze and caught me being an absolute loser when it comes to loving her.

fortunately, before i couldn’t resist the urge to once again kiss her lips senseless and possibly ruining yet another christmas eve activity. she looked up and with a soothing tone, asked me, “how was your day?” i was more than pleased when she asked that, she senses my thoughts, i like having my mind read.

“not much, since final season is over i’ve been focused on catching the hours i’ve been awake to study, i walked around the block near at three ans got brunch. how about you?” she has all my attention the moment those lips part.

“oh you know, it’s been a whirlwind lately,” she begins, concentrating on piping icing onto a cookie, “this morning, we had a photoshoot for vogue korea. they wanted to capture both traditional and modern concepts so we got to wear hanboks and some chic contemporary outfits. it was exhausting but so rewarding,” she pauses, selecting a gumdrop for her gingerbread man.

“after that, we had a meeting about our upcoming independent projects. since leaving ador, we’ve been navigating everythung ourselves—planning, scheduling, even managing our social media. it’s a lot of responsibility, but it’s empowering to have creative control.” her eyes met mine, a mix of excitement and fatigue, “honestly, it’s been nonstop, but at least i got to soend more time with you which is the best part of my day.” there it is again, the glimmer of her eyes washing over me. i don’t think i can continue this conversation—looking in her eyes too—any longer without a kiss or two so i went back to my gingerbread house and didn’t ask anymore questions furthermore.

“my parents invited you to dinner tonight. are you willing to come this year?” she used a softer, more tender vocabulary than last year. somehow, even after spending more time (with the girls) than ever to get used to the feeling of togetherness, i still feel a tinge of anxiety and annoyance when i picture a family dinner. a real family dinner. where everyone is included. she had tell me how her family is like at times. i thought for a second and replied, “do they know about us?” to my relief, minji smiled and nod, “they’re a lot more familiar with your name rather than the girls.” with a few words of reassurance we drove to her house after covering the gingerbread cookies with a nearby cloth.

i drove, she hasn’t got her driver’s license yet. “relax bro, they’re gonna like you. you’re a great person.” i muttered thank you though i wasn’t sure if i were even a good person to begin with.

“there! that’s my house.” i was mesmerized when i took my glance of the house. it wasn’t the traditional korean house like i imagined, rather, it was a modern, fully decorated house. i laughed realizing that her house has the most, what was the word again? crowded. yeah, her house is very crowded with all the christmas lights and decorations.

the first meeting with her family was surprisingly comforting to me. her mother shared the same gaze and speaking tone with her, offering me some pear juice—i politely accepted it and chug it down in one breath, i was nervous. we sat on the dinner table, everything is ready.

“you want galbijjim or roasted chicken?” minji whispered softly as she took my plate, her voice barely audible over the quiet hum of conversation. everyone else had already started eating, but she, as always, made sure i was served first. it was a simple gesture, yet one that spoke volumes—a habit she’d carried since the day we met, placing my needs before her own with an ease that felt like second nature.

“both.” i smiled for the first time after arriving at the house, my nerves has started to relax. the dinner table feels warmer than i expected, with the soft hum of conversations swirling around me. the glow from the christmas lights, which feel like they’re everywhere, dances across the room in little flickers, adding to the festive atmosphere. minji’s parents are seated at the head of the table, her mom, just as graceful as minji, making sure everyone’s glass is full and everyone’s plate is filled.

“so, yn,” minji’s dad says, breaking through the noise with his deep voice, “how’s life been treating you? what have you been up to lately?” his tone is casual, inviting—like he’s genuinely curious, not probing.

i clear my throat, suddenly aware of the quiet that surrounds me. “oh, uh, not much. just finished finals, so i’ve been... trying to breathe again,” i laugh softly, the nervous tension in my chest easing a little. “and spending time with minji, obviously.”

minji looks at me with a small smile, her hand subtly brushing mine under the table. it’s comforting, knowing that in a room full of unfamiliar faces, there’s this unspoken connection between us.

her mom laughs, a light, melodic sound that makes the whole room feel a little less stiff. “you two always seem so happy together,” she says, her eyes warm. “i’m glad to see minji with someone who makes her smile so much. it’s rare, you know.”

i glance at minji, a soft flush creeping onto her cheeks, but she doesn’t look embarrassed—just content. she catches my gaze, and for a moment, the world outside the dinner table fades.

“you guys have been such a great couple,” her dad adds, and i can feel the weight of the words settling in, almost like a compliment wrapped in a quiet approval.

i smile at minji’s parents, grateful for the warmth they’re offering, and without thinking, i reach for the galbijjim, placing a piece on minji’s plate before mine. it’s a small thing, but in this moment, it feels like the right thing to do—following the same simple gesture she’s done for me so many times before.

"thanks for having me," i say softly, almost shy.

her dad gives me a knowing smile, and i see minji’s mom glance between us before she turns back to the table, her face lighting up with the joy of the moment. there’s something peaceful about this—being here, in this space where i’m allowed to be myself without any pretenses.

the meal goes on, each dish more delicious than the last, and slowly, i begin to feel like part of the family. it’s the little things—the way minji’s mom keeps her eye on me, making sure i’m comfortable, or how minji subtly moves closer to me every time i glance her way.

when dessert comes, a sweet red bean cake topped with powdered sugar, the conversation shifts to quieter topics. minji’s mom shares stories from minji’s childhood, laughing about the times she was a little troublemaker, always getting into things she shouldn’t have. i find myself laughing along, feeling like i’m part of this intimate, warm circle, and when minji rests her head on my shoulder as we sit together, i think to myself that this is what christmas is all about.

there’s no pressure, no need for perfect moments. just us, together.

the night grew as the conversation grows, her parent had asked me about my future plans and intentions with their daughter out of nowhere. in the midst of that conversation, her brother came home with a couple of his friends. woah, they really all look alike. they sat on the floor, not long from where we sat but the milisecond frown that i made is enough to make minji aware of my uncomfyness.

“wanna go home? finish our gingerbreads?” she whispered once again. i also like when minji refers to my apartment as home, it makes me feel like i have succeeded in building a home i once never have. i nodded, “can i... can minji stay over at my place tonight mr. kim?” with a rush of courage i asked her father before stepping outside, “i promise i’ll be good, eh-” realizing how childish i must’ve looked i retreat to the car—after minji’s dad patted my back several times, approving.

as we drive back, minji is quiet, her hand brushing against mine as she hums softly to the music. it’s comforting, the way we don’t need to say much. just the presence of each other is enough to make everything else fade. i can’t help but smile to myself. i know there’s still a lot of questions ahead—about us, about where we’re going—but right now, all that matters is that we’re here.

as soon as we step into my apartment—home—minji pushes me up against the wall and started to kiss me all over the place. i pull away, chuckling nervously. “wait, wait. i promised your father i’d be good.”

minji grins, that mischievous glint in her eyes. “yeah, but i don’t,” she teases, her hands sliding up my shirt, her fingers just grazing my skin. “keep resisting me, and i’ll keep doing things to you.”

and just like that, all the uncertainty from earlier vanishes. i can’t help but laugh, my heart pounding in my chest. she knows exactly what she’s doing to me. but for now, as we stand there in our home—together—it’s perfect. i don’t need any more words.

you got the lucky dog!🍀

kim minji x fem!reader

synopsis: yn’s fear of dogs holds a painful secret—one she’s forced to face after rescuing an abandoned puppy. with the help of minji, a kindhearted vet, yn begins to heal, finding comfort, love, and a new beginning as they raise juntos together.

warnings: mention of violence and abusive parent; slight angst, they got a happy ending tho; yn’s kinda insecure; NOT proofread

a/n: cried a little bit while writing this😓 ngl this does feel kinda rushed but i'm eager to post atm💪

dogs, your nemesis.

for as long as you could remember, the sight of a dog triggered a quiet panic inside you, a swift, choking sensation you could never quite shake. the fear reached back to a single moment: a hot, blinding summer afternoon in your childhood when you’d been innocently clutching a sausage, nibbling on it between games in your backyard.

out of nowhere, a mangy, rabid-looking dog charged toward you, eyes wild and fixated on the piece of meat dangling from your fingers. your stomach clenched, and you bolted, heart hammering. behind you, the dog's growl tore through the air, relentless, growing louder with every pounding step. in a last-ditch effort to escape, you threw open the back door and stumbled into your house, the safety you expected replaced with the sound of your father’s yelling.

in your mother’s fearful eyes, you saw a reflection of your own—both of you trapped, just in different ways. the dog scratched furiously at the door, the sounds outside colliding with the shouts from inside, fusing into one. from that day on, the fear of dogs burrowed deep, layered atop memories of helplessness and chaos. a fear you never let anyone in on, because it wasn’t just about dogs. not really.

so when you found a shivering golden retriever puppy in an alley one night, the old terror resurfaced in full force. you froze, your first instinct screaming at you to turn back, to pretend you hadn’t seen anything. but its pitiful whimpers held you in place. it was helpless—abandoned, like you sometimes felt—and before you knew it, your legs moved you forward. you knelt, pulse thudding in your ears, and scooped it up with shaky arms, hardly able to breathe with the puppy pressed so close.

that’s how you met her—minji, the vet.

she barely glanced at you before reaching for the puppy, her voice soft as she murmured to it, hands working quickly and carefully, inspecting its wounds. her calmness unsettled you, made you feel more visible than you were used to. you tried to focus on anything but her, on the puppy’s gentle breathing, on the antiseptic smell of the clinic, until her voice cut through.

"you did the right thing, bringing him here," she said, a faint smile playing on her lips. "he’s lucky someone cared enough."

your throat tightened. lucky? you hadn’t felt lucky for a long time, but you managed a nod, murmuring, “i just... didn’t want to leave him behind.”

minji’s gaze lingered, something almost knowing in her eyes. “what’s his name?”

“he’s- i found him in an alley nearby,” you whispered, avoiding her gaze. “but, i... i wan’t to care for him. perhaps naming him juntos, it means ‘together.’” the name felt like a promise—a shaky one, but a promise nonetheless. one you weren’t even sure you could keep.

minji’s smile softened, and for a fleeting second, her hand brushed against yours as she took juntos back for bandaging. you flinched—too sharply. she noticed but didn’t say a word, just let her hand fall away. that simple gesture, her unspoken understanding, caught you off guard. you’d been expecting questions, pity, maybe even a push for you to “face your fear.” but she left it at that, moving about the clinic as if it were normal for someone to shake with fear over a puppy.

you didn’t expect to be back so soon.

the next day, juntos’ bandages seemed off, smeared with what looked like blood. an excuse to see her again? maybe. but you couldn’t bring yourself to admit it. you convinced yourself it was about juntos. so you showed up, fidgeting in the clinic’s waiting area, hoping she’d think you were here for the right reasons.

when she walked in, her eyes caught yours, a glimmer of something like amusement hidden behind her calm gaze. “betadine, not blood,” she said as if she could read the question in your mind. “the bandages are fine.” but she changed them anyway, her movements careful and precise.

“i don’t mind if you bring him here, though,” she murmured, a slight teasing edge to her voice. “but i have a feeling you’re looking for an excuse.” her fingers lingered on juntos’ fur, and you realized you’d been holding your breath.

she smiled, her expression softening when you finally met her gaze. “here,” she said, writing her number on the back of your hand in a quick, effortless scrawl. “in case you need to talk. or…if you need more excuses to come by.”

your fingers curled around the ink, something fragile swelling in your chest. you nodded, feeling a familiar tightness in your throat. but all you managed was a quiet, “okay.”

that night, you lay awake, heart pounding as you stared at the number on your hand. for the first time in a long while, you felt something other than the hollow echo of fear. instead, it was a pull—toward something unknown, terrifying, and yet…warm.

***

weekends with minji felt like a series of small discoveries.

she invited you over, and though you hesitated, the thought of being near her felt like a safe place to fall. her home was everything yours wasn’t: bright, open, brimming with life. the centerpiece of it all was her aquarium, an underwater world you could have stared at for hours.

“had a fish named darwin once,” she mused, watching a neon-blue fish dart through the coral. “he was my first, actually. still have him, though he’s in there somewhere.”

her words tugged at something inside you, memories of your own darwin—a small, loyal fish who hadn’t made it past the summer of his first year. the reminder stung, reminding you of all the broken things you’d tried to piece together but couldn’t. her tank was alive, flourishing, while yours had long since turned empty and forgotten.

you couldn’t hide the flash of pain in your eyes. minji noticed, and in her typical quiet way, didn’t press. instead, she let the silence settle, her fingers tapping gently on the glass as if the aquarium itself could tell you the words she left unsaid: “it’s okay if things don’t stay whole.”

but there were moments where the walls closed in again. one night, as you sat across from her at her kitchen table, memories crept back in unbidden—old, ragged shadows of barking dogs and slamming doors. you felt your hand tremble, and minji’s gaze shifted to you, her calm unwavering.

“sometimes, fear doesn’t just disappear,” she said quietly, her voice a soothing presence in the room. “it stays. but that doesn’t mean you’re not strong for feeling it.” she took your hand, squeezing it gently, grounding you.

for a moment, you wanted to pull back, to recoil from the comfort. comfort was a dangerous thing; you knew what it felt like to lose it. but her hand stayed steady, and gradually, so did you.

weeks turned into months, and in those countless moments between, you felt the slow but steady shift of something breaking open inside you, each barrier crumbling bit by bit. with juntos growing, his playfulness began filling the empty spaces of your days. there was something comforting in watching him bound around, carefree, tugging at loose socks and nuzzling against you when you’d lay on the couch, seeking comfort of his own.

one crisp evening, you found yourself in minji’s home again. juntos lay between you, sprawled out and gently snoring. minji was beside you on the couch, her warmth a steady presence, her hand softly resting near yours. you realized that each time she was near, the raw edges of your past felt less jagged, the fear that had once left you feeling trapped loosening its grip. in that quiet space, your guard started to wane.

“minji,” you whispered, looking down at juntos. she turned to you, her gaze steady but soft, the way it always was when she sensed you were holding something close to your heart.

“i… i don’t think i’ve ever told you why i’m so afraid of dogs,” you began, voice a little strained, almost uncertain. she nodded, giving you all the patience you needed. you took a shaky breath, “it wasn’t just the dog chasing me that day,” you explained, memories resurfacing with the weight they always carried. “it was my father. after i ran inside, he…” your words caught, but her hand was there, a quiet assurance resting gently over yours.

“he wasn’t a kind man,” you finished softly, voice barely above a whisper. “every time i see a dog, i… i can’t help but remember that day. all the yelling, the anger… i just, i get scared. and sometimes it feels like that fear will never leave me.”

minji’s thumb moved gently against the back of your hand, grounding you in that tender silence she always kept between you both. “fear doesn’t vanish overnight,” she murmured, her words like a warm balm. “but it doesn’t define you, either. it’s okay to carry it. and it’s okay to take your time with it.” she smiled, something knowing and gentle in her gaze. “you’re safe now. you have me, juntos, and maybe… maybe a chance to make peace with what happened.”

over time, it wasn’t just about juntos anymore. it became about building a new kind of life. together, you and minji nurtured him into adulthood, watching him grow into a big, playful bundle of loyalty, his devotion to you both a source of constant joy.

and, gradually, those fears began to fade, softened by the endless moments of safety and love that now filled your life.

years passed, and you found yourself with minji and juntos in a place you’d never thought possible—a modest home in the countryside, surrounded by a sweeping green field that stretched as far as the eye could see. juntos loved to roam here, his boundless energy set free across the vast, open land.

one evening, with the sunset painting the sky in shades of orange and lavender, you and minji stood side by side, watching juntos chase after a stray butterfly. her fingers intertwined with yours, a faint smile on her lips as she glanced at you.

“this,” she whispered, her eyes glimmering with something soft and steady, “this feels like home, doesn’t it?”

you looked at her, feeling the weight of every struggle, every ache, and every moment of growth that had brought you both here. there was peace now, an assurance that what you’d found together was real, solid. you nodded, smiling as you leaned your head against her shoulder. “it does. finally.”

together, you watched juntos play in the grass, his golden coat glowing under the fading light. the future felt boundless, the green fields around you symbolizing a fresh start, a life you’d both built from scratch—stronger, safer, and filled with love.

when minji slipped a simple silver band onto your finger one quiet afternoon, in the same green field that had become your sanctuary, you felt a warmth you hadn’t known was possible.

“we’re together,” she whispered, her voice steady, her gaze unwavering as she met your eyes.

“together,” you replied, a promise wrapped in that single word, as juntos circled around you both, tail wagging, bearing witness to the life you’d built—a life where you’d found peace, joy, and a love that felt like home.

after going silent for a good minute, you opened your mouth, “how does a daughter sound to you?”

ੈ♡ njz ˳·˖✶

𝜗𝜚 kim minji ᡣ . ٜ̥ .𑁩

maybe aquariums aren't so bad after all

bad things come at midnight

the moment between us

you got the lucky dog!🍀

winter wonders

𐙚 pham hanni ໒꒰՞ ܸ. .ܸ՞꒱ა

ice cream!

°｡ 𝒟anielle marsh . ૮ ♡ﻌ♡ა

ﾟ ˖  ꕀ 𓂂  ⠀kɑng haerin ᓚ(^. .^)

bad things come at midnight

✶ . ࣪ ׅ 'lee hyein ₍ᐢ.⑅.ᐢ₎

the moment between us

best-friend!minji x fem!reader

synopsis: in a cozy night filled with cheesy romcoms and laughter, best friends yn and minji find themselves tangled in each other's arms, both oblivious to the feelings simmering beneath the surface. a spontaneous kiss breaks the tension, leading to a moment that changes everything. as they navigate the blurred lines between friendship and something more, they discover the warmth of connection and the promise of new beginnings.

warnings: mild sexual tension; very very very short; obv not proofread; intended lowercase.

a/n: in my productive writer era pt.2😼 this has been collecting dust in my draft tbh

it was one of those cozy nights—the kind where you and minji settled in for your weekly binge of cheesy romcoms, the air filled with the scent of popcorn and laughter. you snuggled into her arms on the couch, a warm blanket draped over your legs. glancing up at her, you were struck by how beautiful she looked, illuminated by the flickering screen. her hair framed her face perfectly, and the way her eyes sparkled made your heart flutter.

without thinking, you leaned in and pressed your lips against hers. the kiss surprised her at first, and a rush of panic coursed through you. but then she melted into it, returning the kiss with a sweetness that made everything else fade away. the movie continued to play, but you both lost yourselves in the moment, your lips moving together as the world outside disappeared.

when you finally pulled away, breathless, you noticed her glasses were fogged up. you gently pushed them up her nose and brushed a few damp strands of hair from her forehead. her cheeks were flushed, and you couldn’t help but giggle at the sight of your lipstick smudged across her lips.

“you’re so cute, you know that?” you said, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness.

minji grinned, her eyes sparkling. “you’re not so bad yourself,” she replied, her voice teasing.

the moment felt different now, filled with a warmth that had always been there but had never been fully acknowledged. as you both settled back into the couch, the tension shifted from uncertain to hopeful. maybe this was the start of something new, and you couldn’t help but feel that it was a step toward something deeper between you two.

bad things come at midnight

vampire!haerin x fem!reader x vampire!minji

synopsis: yn’s escape from a cruel orphanage leads her to the grand castle of two mysterious sisters, minji and haerin. as secrets unravel, yn discovers she is the reincarnation of minji’s past lover, a revelation that ignites dangerous desires and bitter jealousy. caught in a web of immortal love and betrayal, yn must decide if her new life is truly a blessing—or a curse that comes with the night.

warnings: mention of blood; mild violence; past character death(?); implied past trauma; slightly suggestive; intended lowercase; not proofread i ain't have time for that🤪

a/n: should've made this into a two part series but meh🤷‍♀️ i didn't have a lot of time to write so it may be great at some parts but shitty at some parts😔😔

it was a stormy night, the wind howling as the rain lashed against your body. cold seeped into your bones with each step, your hands trembling as you made the final delivery of the night—a warm meal from the restaurant downtown. you shivered as you fumbled with the heavy iron gate of the grand gothic castle, a place that looked like it had been frozen in time since the 16th century. the owner had been a regular for months now, ordering the same meal at the same time, always asking for it to be left on the table in the center of the lobby.

you knew the routine by heart: the towering arches, the dim lighting, a few candles flickering amidst weak bulbs, and that unsettling dust-covered tarp draped over a massive portrait you’d never dared to look under. tonight, however, something felt different. your instincts prickled, the hairs on your neck rising. you couldn’t shake the feeling of being watched.

as you set the mushroom soup down, the steam rising in comforting curls, you felt it—a pair of unseen eyes scrutinizing your every move. high above, hidden among the shadows of a grand chandelier, a bat stirred. its sharp gaze traced over the bruises and cuts littering your arms and legs, remnants of your life outside these walls. it noticed everything.

you flinched, your mind flashing back to the orphanage. the place you had called "home" for as long as you could remember. ever since the kindly former owner had fallen ill and her cruel sister had taken over, life had become unbearable. you and the other children had been turned into unpaid laborers, your meager earnings siphoned off to fund the new owner’s lavish lifestyle. as one of the older children, you took it upon yourself to steal bread from the restaurant where you worked, enough to share with the youngest in the orphanage, ensuring they didn’t starve.

but tonight, as you prepared to slip out and head back to the orphanage before curfew, you froze. a voice—a voice like silk draped in steel—cut through the air.

“you, child.” you whipped around, your heart leaping into your throat. standing before you were two women—no, not women. their pale skin gleamed in the dim light, their eyes too sharp, their bodies too still. one was tall, almost statuesque, her beauty cold and regal. the other, shorter, with an air of restless energy, her feline-like eyes gleaming in the shadows.

“sit,” the tall one commanded, her voice smooth yet laced with authority. instinctively, you took a step back, but her piercing gaze seemed to hold you in place, compelling you to obey. you felt the chair beneath you as if it were a trap, pulling you closer to them.

“good girl,” the shorter one smirked, her voice carrying a playful menace. “it’s much easier this way.”

you glanced at the table where you had left the soup, your mind racing. “what do you want?” you managed to stammer, your heart pounding like a drum in your chest.

“we want to know about you,” the tall one replied, her eyes studying the bruises on your arms. “i’m minji, and this is my sister haerin. we’ve been watching you.”

“watching me?” you echoed, disbelief mingling with fear. “why?”

“because you’re interesting,” haerin purred, tilting her head. “you’ve got spirit, and we admire that.”

“and you’re alone,” minji added, her tone softening slightly, though the chill in her eyes remained. “you don’t belong in that orphanage. it’s a wretched place, isn’t it? we can offer you something better—a life free from suffering.”

the weight of her words hung in the air, thick and suffocating. you recalled the nights spent huddled with the younger children, stealing bread to stave off hunger, and the feeling of despair that often settled in your chest. “what do you mean by ‘better’?” you asked cautiously, curiosity creeping into your voice.

“you’d be safe here,” minji said, taking a step closer, her presence both alluring and intimidating. “we have everything you could ever need. food, shelter, freedom. no more curfews, no more cruelty. just… comfort.”

“comfort?” you scoffed, still wary. “how can i trust you? you’re… different.”

haerin chuckled softly, her laughter echoing in the empty hall. “different, yes, but we are not monsters. we’re offering you a chance to escape a life filled with pain. think about it. the choice is yours.”

“i don’t want to be a prisoner in some castle,” you shot back, but doubt crept into your mind, nagging at you. “what’s the catch?”

“no catch,” minji reassured you, her voice almost hypnotic. “just the opportunity for a new beginning. you’ve survived alone for too long; let us show you what it’s like to be cared for.”

as the weight of her words settled, you felt a flicker of hope—a tantalizing possibility of belonging. it was so tempting, and yet…

“why me?” you asked, your voice barely above a whisper.

“because you’re resilient,” haerin replied, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “and we like resilience. you’re not like the others, are you? you’ve got a fire in you that deserves to be nurtured.”

“imagine it,” minji urged, her gaze penetrating. “you could be part of something extraordinary, a life filled with adventure and mystery. we’ll teach you everything. you won’t have to hide anymore.”

you hesitated, feeling the storm outside rage on, a mirror to the turmoil within you. the allure of their offer was strong, yet fear held you back. “what if i regret it?”

“you won’t,” haerin said, a smile playing on her lips. “i promise you’ll never look back. we’ll protect you. besides, if you don’t like it, you can always leave.”

“but where would i go?” you replied, your voice barely audible as reality settled in.

“that’s the beauty of it,” minji said, a hint of a smile creeping onto her face. “you wouldn’t need to go anywhere else. this could be your home.”

the warmth in her words felt like a balm to your weary soul. you looked at them, their expectant gazes piercing through the darkness. the thought of escaping the orphanage, of finally finding a place to belong, was intoxicating.

“i… i don’t know,” you admitted, wrestling with your fears and hopes.

“take your time,” minji said gently, her demeanor shifting to one of patience. “but we’re here, waiting for your decision. whenever you’re ready.”

as you sat there, the flickering candlelight casting shadows on the walls, you realized that this might be the chance you had been yearning for—a chance to escape a life of pain, to embrace something unknown yet enticing. but as the thought settled in, doubt gnawed at the edges of your mind. was it really that simple? could you just walk away from everything—into the arms of two strangers who seemed far too perfect, too predatory?

your eyes darted to the chandelier, the bulbs dying to light the room. everything about this place screamed danger, from the eerie silence to the sisters’ unnervingly graceful movements. and yet, beneath that fear, a different emotion stirred. curiosity.

"how do i know you're not just trapping me here?" you asked, your voice barely above a whisper, but the words heavy with the weight of your mistrust. "everyone promises something better, but it's never real. how are you any different from the people who made me promises before?"

minji’s expression softened, her gaze turning almost empathetic. "you’re right to be cautious," she said, her voice like velvet in the air, soothing but still sharp enough to cut. "the world has been unkind to you, but we’re not here to offer empty words. we offer something real, something tangible."

"and what is that, exactly?" you countered, your suspicion hardening again. "you talk about a better life, but what do you even want from me? people don't offer kindness for free."

haerin’s lips curved into a smirk, her sharp eyes gleaming in the dim light. "you're clever. i like that." she leaned forward, resting her arms on the table, her movements feline and calculated. "we’re not asking for much. just… loyalty. you’ll find that in time, it’ll be mutual."

"mutual?" you repeated, the word sounding foreign in your mouth. "and what happens if i decide i don't want to stay?"

"then you leave," minji answered smoothly, her voice a serene melody, though her eyes flickered with something darker, more possessive. "but trust me, after you’ve seen what we offer, you won’t want to."

their words draped over you like a fog, thick and seductive, but still, something nagged at you. you had learned the hard way that promises often concealed something sinister. every adult in your life had betrayed you in some way, from the orphanage owner who claimed to take care of you, only to bleed you dry, to the people who pretended to care, only to vanish when it mattered most.

"i'm not like the others who come through here, am i?" you asked, testing the waters. "you’ve had other people… visitors."

minji’s smile thinned slightly, but her composure remained flawless. "none like you."

"what makes me different?" you pressed, leaning forward. "why me?"

for a moment, silence stretched between you. haerin’s eyes narrowed, assessing you, while minji seemed to be weighing her next words carefully.

"because you're already part of our world," haerin finally said, her voice lower, more dangerous. "you just don’t know it yet."

the hairs on the back of your neck rose, a shiver running down your spine. "what do you mean?"

"you’ve been surviving on scraps and shadows your whole life," minji added, her tone delicate but firm. "the world you’ve known is just a sliver of what’s out there. you’re different because you’ve been forged by hardship. we see potential in you."

"potential for what?" you asked, your voice trembling slightly. "to become like you?"

"perhaps," minji said, her eyes glinting. "in time. if you choose to. but for now, all we offer is safety, shelter, and a way out of the life that’s been choking you."

you could feel your heartbeat in your throat, each thud echoing louder than the last. the weight of their offer pressed on you like a storm cloud, and yet… there was still a small voice inside, warning you, screaming at you to run. but run where? back to the orphanage where starvation and abuse awaited? back to a life where your only escape was through stolen bread and the brief, bitter moments of freedom when you were alone in the streets?

you stood, your legs shaky, but you didn’t back away. “i don’t want to be a pawn in someone else’s game,” you said, voice firm despite your pounding heart.

minji rose as well, graceful and composed. “you won’t be,” she promised, stepping closer, her hand reaching out but stopping just shy of touching you. “you’ll be a part of something greater, something far beyond what you can imagine.”

haerin stood, moving to the side like a shadow. "the question is, do you trust yourself enough to take that step?"

your breath caught in your throat. trust yourself? did you? every instinct in you screamed not to trust them, not to believe in the honeyed words of two ethereal creatures who barely blinked. but beneath that fear, there was a whisper, a tiny voice asking—what if this is real? what if you finally had a chance to escape?

you glanced from minji to haerin, their eyes fixed on you, waiting. the candlelight flickered, casting elongated shadows that danced on the stone walls, and you realized there was no clear answer, no certainty in either path. but the thought of going back to the orphanage, to that suffocating misery, was enough to make the decision for you.

with a slow, shaky breath, you nodded. “fine. i’ll stay.”

minji’s smile returned, soft and triumphant. “good choice,” she said softly.

haerin’s eyes gleamed, her smirk deepening as she let out a low, satisfied laugh. “you won’t regret it. welcome to your new life.”

after showing you around the house and talking about each of your backgrounds while sipping warm tea and nibbling on cookies, minji and haerin finally asked you to choose one of the rooms you liked. "just pick one, it doesn’t matter. i’ll ask someone to send you clothes and other things you need."

you frowned when minji mentioned 'someone,' but quickly brushed it off. while you were weighing which room suited you best, haerin excused herself to head to her own room.

"ah, don’t worry about her. she’s an introvert, probably ran out of energy for interaction," minji shrugged, gently placing a hand on your shoulder. "so, have you decided?"

you nodded, pointing to the room across from minji’s—not too large, but its window facing the garden stretched beautifully upwards. "aha! a good choice, i think we’ll make great partners."

though you had many questions about minji’s choice of words, you didn’t dare voice your curiosity. minji left you alone in the room after wishing you goodnight. "welcome to your new life, yn."

after cleaning yourself up—getting out of your rain-soaked clothes, taking a warm bath for the first time in years, you finally went to sleep. that night, you dreamt of a fragment of your past. your parents came to pick you up from the orphanage, taking you for a bike ride in the city park, and then sharing your favorite chocolate ice cream. you smiled in your sleep.

***

the next morning, your body's automatic alarm kicked in. just as the clock struck 4 a.m., you woke up. you turned to the window; the day was still dark—of course. rather than continuing to sleep and lazing around, you decided to get up, clean the dust and cobwebs hanging from the ceiling, and maybe even make breakfast. minji and haerin hadn’t shown their faces yet; they were probably still deep in slumber in their respective rooms.

after the brief tour minji and haerin gave you last night, you were fairly familiar with the layout of the grand castle. ‘turn right, then go straight,’ you repeated in your mind as you walked toward the kitchen. upon arriving, just as you suspected, the kitchen was a mess—it seemed minji and haerin had never cooked before since there was only a lump of bread that looked like it had been made ages ago and a… dead rat? you jumped slightly as you mentally mapped out how to clean this cursed kitchen.

with nothing else to do, you decided to head to minji's reading room—she had allowed you to read any book you liked, except for one red leather-bound book protected by a glass case as clear as water.

as you entered the grand library, time seemed to stand still. the books in this library looked more extensive than those in the city library! wow, from one end to the other, all you could see were books! you cheered inwardly, the doubts that had lingered in your heart last night vanished. even without the luxury they offered, you would want to stay here, surrounded by your favorite things: books.

without you realizing it, the sun began to rise. its bright light made you squint. you hurriedly closed the book, returned it to its place, and rushed back to the kitchen—you needed to start tidying up; you couldn’t act like an unruly child.

“oh, so you’re up, I see? i was just sending haerin to wake you,” minji said, wearing a knee-length floral dress, her hair down, illuminated by the warm glow of the hanging lamp as she prepared an omelet in the once-messy kitchen. even the latest modern tools were neatly arranged.

“do you like it? haerin and i just ordered it, but it arrived so quickly, right?” you nodded at both questions, walking over to minji—her tall figure towering over you. “do you need help?”

“you can set the plates on the dining table.” her gentle gaze met yours, and it took just a moment for you to nod, promptly carrying out her request.

as you carefully placed the plates on the long, ornate dining table, the distant sound of minji humming from the kitchen filled the air, her soft voice weaving through the silence of the grand castle. there was something strangely comforting in the way she moved through the house, her presence always bringing a sense of calm. you finished arranging the silverware, trying to focus on the task, but the scent of freshly cooked eggs and the warmth of minji’s voice were hard to ignore.

minji emerged from the kitchen, carrying a tray with practiced ease. her movements were graceful, almost too perfect for such a simple task. “you’ve set everything so beautifully,” she remarked, her dark eyes meeting yours briefly before she set the tray down. there was an intensity in her gaze that made your heart quicken, though her tone remained gentle.

you busied yourself with adjusting a plate, your fingers fidgeting under her watchful eyes. “thank you... you make everything look so easy,” you murmured, trying not to let your voice tremble. minji chuckled softly, her eyes never leaving you. “i’ve had a lot of time to perfect the little things,” she said with a cryptic smile, her words hanging in the air. time—what did she mean by that? the question lingered, but before you could ask, she gestured toward the chair beside her. “come, sit with me.”

as you sat down, your thoughts still swirling with uncertainty, haerin appeared at the entrance of the dining room, her eyes narrowing slightly as she took in the scene. “i was looking for you earlier,” she said, her voice low but pointed. you glanced at her. “sorry... haerin-unnie,” you mumbled, eyes downcast. she approached, her fingers brushing lightly over your shoulder, a fleeting touch that sent a shiver down your spine. “don’t do it again,” she whispered, her lips barely curving into a smile before she turned to join her sister at the table.

with both sisters seated on either side of you, the tension in the air was palpable. minji’s calm, steady presence contrasted sharply with haerin’s quiet intensity, leaving you caught between their different energies. as minji served the food, her movements so close you could feel the warmth of her arm, you couldn’t help but wonder—how long could you stay balanced between them?

you tried to steady your breath as minji poured tea into your cup, the delicate clink of porcelain breaking the silence between the three of you. her movements were elegant, precise, like everything she did was part of some silent performance. you found yourself staring at the way her fingers wrapped around the teapot handle—long, slender, but there was a quiet strength in them that both unsettled and intrigued you. she caught you looking and smiled faintly, a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes.

“you don’t have to be so nervous, you know,” she said, her voice low and smooth. “you’re safe here, yn. as long as you follow the house rules.”

haerin, who had been quietly watching from across the table, let out a small huff, leaning back in her chair with an amused smirk playing on her lips. “minji, you always scare them with that ‘house rules’ speech.” her tone was light, but there was a sharpness behind it. “besides, it’s not like we bite… at least, not without permission.”

your eyes darted between them, unsure how to respond. minji shot haerin a brief glance, her expression unreadable, but you could feel the tension simmering just beneath the surface. haerin's teasing words lingered in the air, and though you laughed nervously, you couldn’t shake the feeling that there was truth hidden in her jest.

minji reached out, placing her hand lightly on your wrist. the touch was gentle, but it held you in place, drawing your attention back to her. “don’t mind her,” she said softly, her thumb brushing over your skin. “you’re our guest, and we’ll take care of you. isn’t that what you wanted?”

the question caught you off guard, pulling at the thoughts you had been trying to suppress since you arrived. was this what you wanted? the quiet luxury, the sense of safety, the promise of something more? your life had been nothing but chaos, a constant struggle to survive, and now here you were—caught in the orbit of these two enigmatic sisters, both offering something you hadn’t known you craved. and yet, the unease remained. could you really trust them?

before you could answer, haerin stood, her chair scraping softly against the floor. “i’m going for a walk,” she announced, casting a final glance at you. “if you decide you want some fresh air, come find me.” she didn’t wait for a response, disappearing down the hallway with her usual silent grace.

left alone with minji, the air felt heavier, more intimate. she still hadn’t let go of your wrist, her touch lingering longer than necessary. when she finally withdrew her hand, her gaze softened, as if she could sense the storm of emotions churning within you.

“take your time adjusting,” she said, standing and gathering the empty plates with practiced ease. “this place… it’s not for everyone, but i think you’ll come to appreciate it. and us.”

she smiled again, that same enigmatic curve of her lips, and with that, she disappeared back into the kitchen, leaving you alone with your thoughts.

***

after a few days living there and wanders through all the rooms, you found yourself with nothing left to do. the silence of the house felt strange and a little unsettling after the business of the orphanage. you weren’t used to having free time, and you weren’t sure how to spend it. at first, you thought about going back to the library, where you felt comfortable, but the nice weather outside caught your attention.

a walk in the garden sounded nice.

then, a new idea came to you—flowers. the garden could use some color, and maybe minji would like that too. feeling excited, you decided to skip the library and instead made your way to minji’s room. you knocked on the door gently, a little nervous but hoping she’d agree.

"come in, i didn’t lock the door."

you stepped inside, and the sight before you took your breath away. minji was in her room, draped in soft fabrics that hugged her form in all the right places. her hair cascaded around her shoulders, framing her face in a way that made your heart race. the dim light filtering through the curtains created a warm glow, emphasizing her delicate features. she looked ethereal, almost otherworldly, and you couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement at the sight of her.

“what brings you here so early?” minji asked, her voice smooth like velvet. there was a softness in her gaze that made you feel both comfortable and exhilarated, as if she could see right into your thoughts.

you hesitated for a moment, trying to find the right words. “i was thinking... the garden could use some flowers, and i thought you might want to come with me to pick some.”

minji’s expression shifted slightly, her playful demeanor softening. “oh, sweetie, that sounds lovely,” she replied, her tone warm. “but i really need to rest and i have to be ready for... other things.”

you felt a pang of disappointment, but you understood. “right, of course. you need your rest.”

“but,” she said, leaning closer, a teasing smile playing on her lips, “you’re welcome to go on your own. who knows, maybe you’ll find something beautiful out there.”

you swallowed hard, feeling a rush of warmth at the way she was looking at you. “maybe I will,” you replied, trying to sound casual even as your heart raced.

“just remember, if you find something special, you’ll have to show me when you get back.” her gaze held yours for a moment longer, a spark of something electric passing between you.

“i will,” you promised, your voice barely a whisper. as you turned to leave, you couldn’t shake the feeling of her eyes on you, a lingering warmth that stayed with you as you made your way to the garden.

stepping outside, the fresh air washed over you, but the image of minji lingered in your mind—her beauty, her laughter, and the way her presence made everything feel just a little more intense. you took a deep breath, determined to find the perfect flowers, even if it meant doing so alone.

***

the path to the market felt very familiar. back at the orphanage, you were often sent by the chef—who still had a conscience and didn’t report you when you stole some snacks from the kitchen—to shop. your mind wandered again. is this really okay? leaving them suffering in that orphanage alone? but you quickly pushed those thoughts away. when an opportunity arises, you must take full advantage of it.

you encountered a few acquaintances—the market vendors—who were taken aback by your appearance. “uh, yeah. someone rich adopted me!”

upon arriving at the flower shop, you spent a while selecting and inhaling the scents of the flowers. you approached the owner and asked them to send someone to plant flowers in the castle garden—with minji and haerin's permission, of course. you settled on white peonies and cherry blossoms for minji, and black dahlias with dark purple orchids for haerin.

you hummed softly on the way back, deciding to stop by the bakery you used to visit with your parents when you were little. ha… the interior of this bakery hadn’t changed at all, and the smell was exactly as you remembered. after ordering a pain au chocolat and a cup of cappuccino, you chose to sit by the window, watching people go by.

your family used to be very wealthy until a problem caused your parents to divorce, losing their fortune and abandoning you on the streets. you pushed those memories far away, even though you still lived in the same city as them—wondering if they still remembered you after the issue ended five years ago. maybe you could visit other places with minji and haerin later. this time, you went straight home after finishing your food and drink.

as you made your way back to the castle, your mind raced with thoughts of minji. the flowers in your hands felt like a bridge between you, a gesture of gratitude for the kindness she had shown you. but beneath that gratitude lay a hint of confusion. could it be that minji saw you differently than you intended? you shook your head, dismissing the notion. she was a figure of strength and beauty, almost like a maternal presence, someone who offered you solace in a world that had shown you little kindness.

when you entered the castle, you found haerin in the living room, her feline grace contrasting sharply with the imposing architecture. she looked up, her gaze assessing. “where were you?” she asked, an edge of concern lacing her tone.

“the market,” you replied, holding up the bouquet as if it would validate your actions. “i got flowers for you and minji.”

her expression shifted slightly, a flicker of something unreadable crossing her face. “you didn’t tell me you were going out. you should have asked first.”

“i—”

“it’s not about that,” she cut you off, her voice softening. “just be careful. you never know what could happen out there.”

your mind raced as haerin’s words sank in, but something still didn’t add up. the timing, the way she spoke—there was more to her confession. you weren’t naive; it wasn’t just a warning. something darker, something bitter, lingered beneath the surface of her words. jealousy. you could feel it, even though she hadn’t said it outright. haerin wanted something—no, someone—that wasn’t hers.

you took a shaky breath. “why tell me all of this now, haerin? if you’re trying to protect me, why make it sound like you’re... bitter?”

she gave a small, sharp laugh, her eyes narrowing slightly. “you think i’m bitter?” her tone was mocking, but there was a flicker of something real behind it. “maybe you’re right. but it’s not because i’m jealous of you.”

a chill crept over you. “then what?”

haerin stepped closer, her voice low as she spoke. “it’s because you’re not who you think you are, yn. you’re playing a part you don’t even know about. this isn’t some fairytale where you get adopted by a rich woman and live happily ever after. you were brought here for a reason.”

“what reason?” your voice came out sharper than you expected, frustration edging into fear. “what are you talking about?”

she hesitated, her gaze hardening as if weighing her next words. then, with an almost dismissive shrug, she dropped the bombshell: “we’re vampires.”

the room seemed to tilt for a second, your breath caught in your throat. it couldn’t be. vampires? it sounded ridiculous, impossible—but the look in her eyes said she wasn’t lying. the blood drained from your face, your hands shaking slightly.

you backed up, trying to process the words, but before you could respond, the door swung open with a force that made your heart lurch. minji stood there, her usually calm face twisted in fury. “haerin,” she growled, voice sharp as ice, “what the hell did you just do?”

you saw it then—minji’s eyes, no longer just a deep brown, now gleaming with something unnatural. anger. hunger. her gaze flicked to you, and for the first time, you felt fear crawl up your spine. she was taller, more imposing in that moment, her presence dominating the room.

“you weren’t supposed to know yet,” minji hissed, stepping toward you, her movements too fluid, too quick. “you weren’t ready.” the rage in her eyes flickered with something else, something primal. you stepped back, your heart pounding in your ears.

“i—i didn’t—” you tried to form words, but they wouldn’t come. your back hit the wall, and suddenly, minji was inches away. her eyes darkened, and you could feel her breath on your neck, the air shifting as she leaned in closer, too close.

you froze, terror gripping your chest as you realized what she might do. her lips brushed your skin, cold and soft, and for a moment, the world narrowed to just her touch. then her teeth grazed your neck.

“minji!” haerin’s voice cut through the tension like a whip, snapping minji out of whatever trance she was in. she stepped back, blinking as if waking from a dream. for a second, her face softened—then the fury returned, but this time it wasn’t directed at you.

“you did this,” minji snarled, turning to haerin, her voice low and dangerous. “she wasn’t supposed to know yet.”

you gasped, stumbling away from them, your hand clutching your neck where you could still feel the ghost of her touch. the fear and confusion twisted inside you, but there was something else—a deep sadness, a realization that maybe this great opportunity wasn’t what it seemed. everything was unraveling so quickly.

as you backed away from them, memories of your past flooded back—your family, the life you had lost. it was all connected, somehow. the reason you’d ended up in the orphanage, the secrets your parents had kept from you. they hadn’t abandoned you because of money or misfortune. no, it was something more twisted. your parents had once been part of a world like this, a world of power and darkness. you were caught in the middle of something far older than you had known.

you clutched the side of your head, the memories flashing too quickly. your mother’s distant eyes, the arguments late at night when they thought you weren’t listening, the day they left you at the orphanage, telling you it was for your own safety. everything clicked into place.

“i should’ve known,” you muttered under your breath, looking back at minji with wide, terrified eyes. “this wasn’t a coincidence. i look like him, don’t i? your husband.”

minji’s gaze softened, but the sadness in her eyes was undeniable. she didn’t deny it.

and in that moment, you realized this was much bigger than you could have ever imagined. maybe you were just another piece in their long, immortal game—used to fill the void of their eternal loss.

as the warmth of minji's bite coursed through your veins, the world seemed to shift. a flood of memories that didn’t belong to you rushed into your mind—fragments of another life, another time. you staggered slightly, clutching minji’s arm as flashes of faces, voices, and emotions overwhelmed you. one face in particular stood out—a man’s, someone who felt strangely familiar. his voice echoed in your head, filled with love and devotion... for minji.

“i remember him,” you whispered, your voice barely audible. “i remember... being him.”

minji’s eyes widened in shock, her grip tightening around your arm. there was a flicker of recognition, of something deep and ancient between you. “it can’t be,” she murmured, her voice trembling. “you’re... you’re him, reincarnated.” her words were barely above a whisper, but the weight of them crushed you. the memories, the feelings—they weren’t just fragments; they were yours.

it made sense now. the pull you’d felt toward minji, the unexplainable connection, the way her face had felt so familiar, like something out of a dream. you had been her husband, a lifetime ago. the man who chose mortality over immortality.

“he didn’t want to live forever,” you muttered, piecing it together. “he refused to become what you are.” the revelation hit you hard, and you looked up at her, searching her eyes for answers. “that’s why he left, isn’t it?”

minji’s expression shifted, sorrow filling her eyes as she nodded. “he couldn’t bear the thought of eternity. he chose to live a normal life, to die. but he promised... he promised he would find me again, somehow.”

the air in the room thickened with the weight of those words. you had been brought back to her, against all odds, against time itself. and now, you were standing in front of her once more, caught in the web of fate.

haerin’s gaze flickered with a mix of emotions—jealousy, frustration, and something deeper, a bitterness that had built up over years. “you always win, don’t you, minji?” her voice cracked, the mask of coldness slipping away to reveal the hurt beneath. “even after all this time, even after everything... you still get what you want.”

minji looked at her, pain in her eyes, but there was nothing she could say to soothe her sister’s wounds. “haerin…”

“no, don’t,” haerin cut her off, her voice hollow now. “i need to go.” she turned away from the two of you, her steps deliberate but heavy. “i can’t stay here anymore.” she paused at the door, her silhouette framed by the dim light of the castle’s hallway. “take care of her,” she whispered, almost too softly to hear. then, without another word, she disappeared into the night, leaving the castle quieter than it had ever been.

you stood there, unsure of what to say, unsure if there was anything to be said. but minji’s hand found yours, squeezing gently, grounding you in that moment. her eyes, once filled with rage and hunger, now only held a quiet sorrow.

“i’m sorry,” she whispered, her voice barely audible, the weight of her confession heavy in the air.

weeks passed, the castle settling into a new rhythm without haerin’s presence. and soon, everything started to fall into place—your memories, the truth of your past. you weren’t just some random girl caught in their world. you were the reincarnation of minji’s husband, the one who had chosen death over the curse of immortality. you had been given a second chance, a chance to live again, but fate had brought you back into the very world you had tried to escape.

and yet, this time, you didn’t run.

three months later, the castle felt more like a home. the cold, stone walls were softened by the warmth of life within them. the garden bloomed with the flowers you had planted, a mix of color and life that mirrored the changes in your own heart. the past no longer felt like a burden—it was part of you, and part of minji.

one evening, you sat at the long dining table, minji by your side, your parents across from you. the room was lit by soft, golden light, the warm glow of candles filling the space. laughter echoed through the halls as you shared stories and memories, the tension of your earlier days here forgotten.

minji’s hand rested on yours, her touch familiar and comforting. your parents, who had been lost to you for so long, had accepted this strange, new life you had found. the weight of the past had lifted, replaced by a new beginning.

you looked at minji, and she smiled—a smile that carried a hundred years of longing and love. and for the first time, you felt truly at peace. this was where you were meant to be, not just as minji’s eternal love but as part of a family once more.

and haerin? wherever she was, you hoped she found her own peace, away from the shadows of the past.

as the night went on, the warmth in the room grew, not just from the fire crackling in the hearth, but from the love shared around the table. for the first time in your life, you felt truly whole.

and in that moment, everything felt right.

maybe aquariums aren’t so bad after all

pt. 1 > pt. 2

kim minji x fem!reader x uchinaga aeri

synopsis: y/n thought she had moved on. but when aeri—her enigmatic first love, returns after five years of silence, old feelings resurface, threatening to disrupt the relationship she's built with minji—the person who now holds her heart. as y/n navigates an emotional storm of unresolved tension and buried memories, she is drawn back into aeri’s world, seeking the closure she’s always needed.

warnings: minji and reader kissed; not proofread; messy and cringe(?) at some parts.

a/n: there’s actually so much potential for this fic but i’m just in the mood to post somehow so, yeah.

after the lecture ends, you and minji stayed in the completely empty lecture hall in silence.

“what were you saying?” you asked minji again even though you heard her the first time, you were too frightened with the thought of telling her abour aeri. what would she say? what if she decided to stay away from you? you couldn’t risk it, she’s the most important person in your life.

“who really is ms. aeri? you look very angry when we meet her yesterday at the aquarium, and now you’re drooling all over her...” she played with the hem of your sweater, looking down.

“i’ll tell you when i’m ready okay? until then, stay by my side okay?” you give minji a reassuring smile though your mind panicked when you catch a glimpse of aeri outside the lecture hall.

you still have a few classes today so minji went home first—preparing the things to bake a cake. you didn’t meet aeri for the rest of the day and minji picks you up when all of your classes are done. linking arms together, you two walked to the parking lot while discussing your tasks for the baking session—yet again, you catch a glance with aeri, she was there with one of her old friend in her office that’s just by the parking lot.

***

“why are they suddenly so close?” aeri asked her friend, walking together to a nearby cafe.

“aeri honey, you were away for five years. what makes you think that y/n would wait for you that long?” karina’s confused voice answered her question with another question.

“i don’t know... perhaps, this promise ring?” aeri put up her left hand, a cartier ring perfectly coiled there.

“well, did you see she still wear her’s?” checkmate, she doesn’t know. aeri bit the insides of her cheeks in frustation, she’s anxious again, “you guys seriously need to talk aeri. resolve the old feelings y’know.”

“how?” aeri played with the ring on her finger, she thinks you must’ve hate her.

“i’ll tell you what, i’ll arrange a dinner with her family for opening. i still keep in touch with her mo–”

“deal!”

while aeri and karina talks about the plan to resolve the old feelings, you and minji were busy falling in love. well, at least the chemicals in your body produces lots of oxytocin when minji helps you decorate the cake and her lips were inches away from yours.

“minji,” she turned her face to look at you and you swear it almost give you a heart attack, your heart is beating so loud and your face started to get red you’re afraid minji might notice it.

“y-you, you’re too close...” you quickly focuses back to the cake to distract the fact that you can feel her breath against your lips.

“o-oh, sorry.” she pulled back from the kitchen counter, rubbing the back of her neck—internally screaming.

“yeah, i don’t mind.” you managed to keep your cool and flirty demeanor and slightly smirked towards her, the cake is almost done. after some finishing touches, a cake with a cute and pretty impressive decoration is placed on the dining table.

“who’s gonna have the first bite?” you asked, giving minji a fork.

“how about we just feed each other at the same time so we could have the first taste together?” minji suggest and idea that you quickly agreed to. you both laughed after tasting the chocolate cake, tasty.

“woah, we should probably open a bakery look how talented we are...” minji laughed so cutely, suddenly you don’t know what made the cake so sweet.

after some more eating and cleaning up the mess that were left, you and minji tucked in yourselves on the couch and turn on the good old classic romcom, The Notebook. you both stayed quiet and really pay attention to the movie despite this is the 17th time you watched it together until near the end of the movie. you snuggled closer to minji, resting your head on her arm. she looked down for a moment and thought, ‘she looks so good right now i can kiss her...’ then just out of sudden rush of courage and impulsive act, she tilts your chin up and before you can ask her what is she doing or calculate what might happen, she pressed her lips onto yours. you can almost taste the strawberry chapstick she always use while instinctively recipocrating her kiss, you both smile into the kiss, only pulling back when you two run out of breath.

“w-whaaat?” you sit back up on the couch, wiping the excess saliva left on your lips.

“i’m– i just did it out of impulsiveness and i’m sorry but,” minji paused to wipe her lips too, “i didn’t know that you’ll kiss me back.” she continued with a flirty tone.

“so, uh, you-you like me?” you don’t know what kind of expression you should put but you’re sure it must be so chaotic.

“since 8th grade...” she answered with a nod and you two just sit face to face on the couch, cheeks still red and lips still swollen.

“so are girlfriends now or what?” you finally break the silence, still trying to gain composure.

“if you’d like to.”

“oh please, i nearly couldn’t form a coherent sentence right now and you’re asking me if i want to be your girlfriend?” you hugged minji and you picked another movie to watch after—decided to do a marathon of ghibli films.

minji spend the night after—as you promised earlier. and almost like a routine, you wait for her to fall asleep, scutinizing every single movement of her breathing and traced her features before going to sleep. you’ve always put your phone on do not disturb mode whenever you’re with minji, so the next morning when you wake up, you’re quite surprised seeing dozens of texts from your mother inviting you to dinner with aeri and karina.

as you watch minji sleep last night, you’ve decided to let go of the past and choose to focus on your relationship with minji. you do want to hear an explanation from aeri though, you replied to your mother, asking is aeri spent the night there. she didn’t but your mother gave aeri your number. lucky for you, aeri messaged you first when you’re still contemplating on asking your mother for aeri’s number.

( aeri: hey

aeri: are you free today?

aeri: i hope we can resolve the things between us

aeri: say, let’s eat lunch together at the new restaurant that just opened downtown? )

***

as soon as minji wakes up, eat breakfast and shower, you explaines to her about aeri. her expression was... normal? but when you tell her you’re going to eat lunch with her and possibly resolve things, she pouts incredibly cute—clinging to your arm.

“do you have to meet her today?” you give a peck on her pouty lips, you rarely sees the clingy side of minji.

“the sooner the better, sweetheart.” you caress her hands, give her one more assuring words and lots of kisses before going out to the said restaurant.

you drive to where the restaurant is located—which turned out to be stone’s throw from the aquarium you visited yesterday. instead of playing your playlist and sing your lungs out like you used to did, you started to construct the conversation you’d possibly have with aeri. you take confident steps towards the entrance, but as soon as you see her wrapped in an elegant but casual black dress, red rosy lips, holding a glass of martini the memories flows back in. you gulped before walking up to her, cracking the best (awkward) smile.

“ms. aeri? have you been waiting long?” you take a seat in front of her, still using the honorific, “did you order yet?” your eyes darted across the room, unable to directly look into her eyes.

aeri hummed in response, “i ordered you a ceasar salad too.” you quitly say thank you, you both stayed quiet until your plates are empty and aeri orders another glass of martini.

you silently contemplate in your seat, heart beating faster than you’d like to admit. the memories of your relationship with her, the good times, and the heartbreak flood your mind, but you keep your composure. this isn't about falling back into old habits; it's about getting answers.

aeri takes a sip of her martini, her eyes scanning your face, as though gauging how much has changed in the time they’ve been apart. she begins to talk. “i know i owe you an explanation,” she begins, her voice calm but a little hesitant. “i didn’t come back because... i thought i could offer you more by staying away.”

“you thought leaving me for five years without a word would somehow be better?” you frowned, fingers clenching around the water glass in front of you. your gaze were still on the other side of the room though.

aeri sets down her drink, leaning forward. “at the time, yes. i wanted to become someone you could be proud of. someone who wasn’t just your father’s assistant. i thought if i could establish myself, we could finally be on equal ground.”

“that’s not what I wanted, aeri.” your voice shakes, “i didn’t need you to be something else. i needed you to be here.”

“i see that now. but back then, i thought i was doing the right thing. i worked hard, hoping that when i came back, we could pick up where we left off... but time passed. you grew up, and i was still stuck in the past, holding onto something i wasn’t sure you even wanted anymore.” a familiar chuckle flows through your ears as aeri’s expression softens, regret seeping into her features.

you felt the weight of those words. part of you had been waiting, even if you didn’t want to admit it, but the more time passed, the more you found yourself leaning on minji. the more minji filled the gaps aeri had left behind.

“you’re right,” you said quietly, finally meeting aeri’s gaze after so long, “i did grow up. i’m not the same person i was when you left. and i think… i needed you to come back sooner if we ever had a chance.” a familiar chuckle flows through your ears, a small smile tugging on her lips—though it’s bittersweet.

“i really missed my window didn’t i?” aeri sighs, running a hand through her hair, “i know. but i had to tell you, y/n. i couldn’t just let things end the way they did, without you knowing that i never meant to hurt you.”

“i appreciate that,” you replied with a softer tone, finally being able to relax, “i think i needed to hear it, too.”

for the first time in the conversation, there’s a sense of peace between you two. it’s not the kind of peace that rekindles a relationship but the kind that offers closure—a finality that allows both of you to move on.

“I’m glad you found someone like minji.” after a brief silence, aeri reaches across the table and squeezes your hand.

“i’m sorry for everything. i hope this gives you the closure you need.”

“it does,” you admit, “and i hope you find happiness too, with karina perhaps?” you laughed along with her.

you exchange a final, lingering look before stands up to leave, a weight lifted off your shoulders. you know that this chapter with aeri is finally closed, and as you stepped out of the restaurant and into the sunlight, you feel ready to fully embrace the future—with minji.

back at home, you returned to minji’s side, her heart lighter. you wrapped your arms around minji, pulling her close. when Minji looks up at you with those bright eyes, there’s no hesitation in your mind anymore. you know who you want to be with, and you’re ready to give minji all the love she deserves.

“so... how did it go?” minji asks, her voice a little shaky but curious.

“it’s over,” you replied softly, kissing minji’s forehead, “i’m with you now, and that’s all that matters.”

minji smiles, burying her face in your chest, and for the first time in a long while, you felt at peace, ready to build a future with the person who was there all along.

maybe aquariums aren’t so bad after all.

pt.1 > pt.2

kim minji x fem!reader x uchinaga aeri

synopsis: as you began to validate your feelings for minji, the bottled feelings bubbled up and resurfaces. we couldn’t really let go of the past, i think.

warnings: pedophilia?!??; avoidant coping mechanism ; broken humor + english; not proofread; intented lowercase; lmk if i miss anything!

a/n: this is my first ever fic after not writing for quite a bit of time so lmk if there’s any room for improvement (there always will be actually...) also i didn’t expect that it would be this long and random😭😭😭

you woke up in the middle of the night to your phone buzzing in your hand, ‘king michael jackson🕺🤺’ being the caller’s id. you quickly answered the call, minji’s husky voice meets your ear as soon as you said ‘hello’ with a hoarsy voice.

“you’re still awake?” minji asked, to which you replied, “if you don’t say what you want right now i’m getting back to sleep.”

“alright, alright! uhm... i’m in front of your door step...” you checked the time and it’s LITERALLY 2AM, you rushed to the door finding minji with a rosy tint spread across her face.

“again? get in here it’s freezing!” sometimes you even wonder why the two of you are friends as you brew a pot of tea and she sneaks up to your back, huggimg you with a stupid smile. yeah, why are you even friends? you two should be dating by now. it’s a routine by now that minji would come at your door whenever she couldn’t sleep at night, and you’d serve her a cup of tea with honey, talking about random things until she’s finally tired and asks you to go to bed with her—you enjoyed every second of the routine obviously. waking up with minji in your arm, her pillow face and messy hair, always give you a reason to stay alive. now here you are again, tracing the precious features on her face, noticing her slow breathing pattern—the way her chest moves up and down rythmically—the soft glow from the clown fish night lamp that she bought for you for your 9th birthday gleaming behind her back (she has the one that shaped like a blue tang, like nemo and dory). you slowly close your eyes as the girl in your arm snuggles closer and tomorrow you both will get ready in haste, regretting (you both know you'll do it again and again) the midnight conversation.

***

“at this point you two should move in together,” one of the girl in minji’s class, hanni pham, lazily sips her coffe. the class was cancelled because the professor—mrs. kang—fell down the stairs, and you were trying so hard to hold back the laughter when mrs. kang’s assistant inform the lecture was dissmissed and you’re free to go tp anywhere you like.

“you’re practically living together anyway.” she shifts her gaze towards your hand, which somehow intertwined with minji’s.

“and i’m the one talking while these two love birds are dating in front of me!” she slams her hand on the table gently, you look up to her and say, “hey it’s cold and we didn’t bring any heatpack plus i think this is a good way to warm our hands too, bonding time ’yknow.” you smile to minji which gives you an approving nod.

“okay, i’m gonna look for danielle and let you two act so tooth-achingly sweet.” hanni packs her bag and hurriedly leaves you two. to be honest you didn’t even know what makes you warm, minji’s hands or the fact that you’re holding hands with minji. you’ve done it countless times but lately if feels.... different? but since minji seems so nonchalant about the fact that you are practically dating or the way you two act behind closed doors. you shake your head to banish the thoughts and continued reading.

fortunately for you, before the thoughts roam back and you couldn’t focus on your reading anymore, danielle and hanni comes back with lunch! remnants of annoyance have completely gone from hanni’s face and the four of you discussed about random girl things while eating.

“hey y/n mind if i come over to your house? i left my keys there this morn-” before minji could finish her sentence, hanni exclaimed, “see?! dating!”

“yo hanni pham at this point i believe you’re in love with y/n-unnie.” danielle laughed in amusement.

***

as planned earlier, minji comes over to your house to pick up her keys. you decided to brew another pot of tea while minji searches for her keys, you were concered about what might happen to your bedroom.

“i swear i left it on your nightstand!”

“check my desk,” continues to chew bread, making another one for minji, rumbling noises soon be heard as minji proudly hold out her keys in front of you, “hehe, thank you y/n~” you swear her little giggles always sent you off, you were frozen for a moment before snaps back to reality.

“hey btw, my professor said someone will cover her up while she’s recovering.”

“i wonder how will they look, i hope it’s a pretty woman.” almost immediately, minji scoffed, “so you can drool through the whole lecture? nuh uh girl, this is not high school, i’m not taking notes for you to copy anymore.” you step closer towards minji, holding her cheeks in your hands.

“aww, jealous? of course not, pretty people are more bearable sweetie. now ’cmon let’s give that new ice cream shop a chance.”

***

“ha, it looks like auntie diva’s strawberry shortcake ice cream will never be replaced...” minji sigh in dissappointment, you two have been competing to find a better strawberry shotcake flavored ice cream since you go-to ice cream shop has closed because the owner moved overseas.

“where’d you wanna go next? i still have a few hours before my study session, i’ll just tag along.”

“you’d follow me anywhere?”

“as long as i’m alive.” you shrugged your shoulder in a nonchalant manner even though your heart could literally burst out right now.

who knew the place kim minji picked would be one of your biggest nightmare, aquarium. you refused to come inside and had to wait outside the last time you went there with minji and her family—technically it’s her, your parents and her parents.

“seriously kim?!??” even though you decide to follow minji inside and give aquarium a second chance, your voice is heavy with noticeable fear and annoyance, holding tightly to minji’s arm. the two of you pass halls and halls full of ocean creatures, until you reached the peak performance, walking tunnels with gallons and gallons of water above you ready to explode due to minor inconvenience!

“y/n, ’cmon this is the way out and we’ll buy plushies from the gift shop.” minji were so close to drag you inside the tunnel before you remember that you’d follow minji anywhere she’ll go. with a gulp, you nervously step inside the moving floor of the tunnel.

“see? we’re gonna be fine, enjoy the view sweetie.” she started to take more pictures of you together, admiring a shark passing by or pointing towards a weird ass looking fish. by then you thought, ‘huh. maybe aquariums weren’t so bad after all, the memories have slowly fading too...’ you start to enjoy the scene near the end of the tunnel as you catch a glimpse of a familiar face admiring the beauty alone. long, straight brunette hair being clipped messily, white shirt and black glasses, paired with a chic hand bag. you take steps closer towards the woman to clarify her identity. she opens her mouth at the same time as you, looking as shocked.

“y/n?” “aeri-unnie?”

the reason was here, the reason you never wanted to go to aquariums was here. you quickly grabbed confused minji’s hand and pace your way out—didn’t stop to buy plushies from the gift shop. you drive in silence as minji didn’t dare to utter a word in front of your angry face, after taking minji to a restautant—still in silence—you dropped her at her house without saying anything.

fuck, fuck, fuck. you should’ve known, sooner or later that she would come back and you wouldn't be able to hold it back. you couldn't sleep all night, only to come to school to encounter that nightmare.

“morning class, let me briefly introduce myself. my name is aeri uchinaga, you can call me ms. uchinaga and i’ll be replacing mrs. kang until her ankle is fully healed.” you tried to shift your focus to the whiteboard but the way aeri walks, and the way she talks...

“y/n, can you please explain problem number 5?”

***

aeri was the love of your life. or at least that’s what you thought when you first met her as a junior assistant at your father’s research lab. you two have a lot in common, from your favorite angle while talking selfie to your motto—when life gives you lemons, make mojitos. you two eventually grow closer more than ‘father’s research friends’ and ‘boss’ daughter’ and dated when you entered high school. no one knew about this relationship but it was wrong, of course, but your father got caught up with his work and your mother didn’t really pay attention to you. aeri was 23 and you were 16. even though you’re the one suggesting that you two should wait until you turn 21 before started dating again, you still bawl your eyes out when aeri decided to take new opportunities overseas. after whispering promises she’d be back before your 21th birthday, she flew to new york city while you stayed in korea.

you study hard to enter forensic science major while minji pursue art major, you kept the secret so well that the only person that knew about this were only you, aeri, and God. 3 years later, she didn’t come back and your heart finally seeks for new opportunity. the girl that have always stayed by your side, kim minji. it’s inevitable that you fell in love with her, you grew up together and spend most of the times of your life seeing each other’s faces—though when you dated aeri she’s more often questioning your whereabouts and made new friends.

aquariums. aeri have took you to countless aquariums in the country—besides the fact that her job deals with marine animals daily. you always listened to her with glimmering eyes full of adoration and amaze, her explanation is always so easy to comprehend. you avoid aquariums ever since aeri moved overseas.

now here you are again, listening to her easy-to-comprehend lecture. you didn’t knew that she take a turn to forensic science, that got you thinking, was that the reason she didn’t keep her promises? to study the subject that intrigues you the most and explain it to you the way she used to explain the noticeable difference in blue tang’s pattern? before the thought continues even further, a pair of arms sneaks into your waist, nearly making you scream.

“it’s me your girlfriend minji! i sneaked in because you seem distracted.” God, minji’s tiny voice still makes you weak, yet the voice of the woman in front of you sound so nostalgic. you didn’t want to think about these matter of feelings anymore. you took a piece of paper, wrote a little note and slide it to minji.

‘i’m sorry about yesterday. i wasn’t supposed to give you the silent treatment.’

minji took a peek quietly as if it was her lecture and aeri would send her out if she’s not listening, you grinned remembering your high school days. and it doesn’t slip off from aeri’s sharp observation, she still remembers that stupid grin of yours whenever you’re at ease or pleased and she silently curses at herself for not coming back at the time she promised you to. she leaves the lecture room while eyeing you and minji after giving assignments. seconds later, minji pushes back the paper.

‘yeah, i do feel sad... if you let me stay over at your house the whole week i’ll forgive you😋’

you give her a small agreeing nod and focuses back on writing the important parts of the lecture matterial from aeri’s laptop that were projected, you felt a tap on your arm.

“also, who the fuck is aeri?”

MHJ vs HYBE vs NJ is sad

Backstory

I've been into Kpop for more than 2 years (I got in during lockdown) and I know (at least to some extent) how the Korean industry works. The slave contracts, the countless training sessions and the blood, sweat and tears (literally) are what makes Kpop the most interesting and depressing industry of them all. And we may advocate for changes in it, because this industry (administratively) sucks ass and should be illegal most of the terms and conditions that the trainees and idols face day to day. This applies to all industries as well.

I stan BTS, EN- and LSF, also casual listener of other groups such as TXT, AESPA, ITZY, SKZ, EXO, ATEEZ, G-IDLE, BP (as solo artists) and solo artists like IU and many more. (Is a lot of musical TMI about me but is for you to get the gist of what I'm going to say next).

But (again TMI), I studied back in high school business, particularly in accounting for 3 years and I went to a uni course for a semester on business. So I understand mildly the entails of it and how it works.

Now that's out of the way, let's go to the next point, shall we?

Main event

For those who don't know or are not into the kpop scene and such, there has been a controversy surrounding MHJ (former CEO of ADOR (music label under HYBE), HYBE Labels and recently with NJs and the lawsuit against ADOR. Why? Well, according to HYBE and provided evidence to the courtroom after filing a lawsuit, MHJ was defaming, disclosing private information against HYBE LABELS and Co,, including groups like BTS, LSF, ILLIT and many more under the same company, while violating breaches of her contract plus abusing her power in the company and trying to split-up ADOR from HYBE.

Resulting to MHJ stepping down from being the CEO to Creative Director for 3 years for ONLY NJs and then she was released. However, MHJ decided to quit that position. And for the next few weeks, a big storm came to HYBE after that.

NJ broadcasted a live on Weverse (a Kpop communication app) talking about their conditions if HYBE and ADOR still wanted to work with them. One of those conditions was bringing back MHJ as CEO. Given with a deadline. The deadline passed, and yes ADOR adjusted to their demands except one...the return of MHJ.

Now, MHJ is a controversial figure in Kpop. And a very concerning one, this woman is a certified pedophile and groomer since she with SM Entertainment. And this was reflected on groups like RV and Shinee, and many more under SM.

As a consequence, NJ members are "advocating" for a termination of their contract with ADOR (their label) due to mistreatment and contract violation from their part. Claiming that they won't pay for fees due to this termination and that their case for their claims is solid. But that is not the case apparently, since none of their claims seem to be backed up. And their contract is still active with the label.

My opinion The situation is getting worse for everyone, especially for NJ. The girls are in a complicated problem that they, most likely, developed it themselves by throwing their lives to MHJ. One thing is having gratitude to your boss their guidance but other is kissing their ass at every moment and treating them as if they did nothing wrong and that is you and them against the world. Even the parents support her. I'm not siding with anyone but I have to say that all their actions against the company are going to be futile due to the lack of evidence and invalidation of their clams. And them saying that ADOR violated their contract is a huge mistake since NJ are the ones who are violating the contract saying that they are no longer under them and doing things that violate it. Meaning, the ones who are loosing are the girls, with all and career. Is truly a sad situation for everyone.

For reference

MHJ (Min Hee Jin) NJ (NewJeans) SKZ (Stray Kids) LSF (Le Sserafim) EN- (Enhypen) BP (BlackPink) RV (Red Velvet)

Reference https://youtu.be/eyEMkcN73Lk?si=QCgQ4wsaxymvbpqo https://youtu.be/SetopX8i_u8?si=v-2PypVKaHSE7OKT https://youtu.be/AEhHk6E0m2o?si=5Yt0G5fc71rml-iB&t=2618 https://youtu.be/0yXJqWP2DXY?si=G0lurBtzI4MvlhJi

This is only an insight of the issue and how I feel about it, I don't have a reason to hate/discriminate against them. I may understand that some of you might have different opinions on the matter, however be respectful about it. Just don't be an asshole.

love,

~lovely