me being delulu as always… fem!reader tw: one swear n deluluness. this is fan x idol okay. wc: 1k
Oh, it was almost too exciting to be able to see Haechan again. A smile unknowingly blessed your face as you tried to breathe. Truthfully, you never understood how fans would pass out at the sight of their artists but then last year you saw him… In absolute awe as you saw him up on that stage, being so close felt so surreal and suddenly you understood those fans as you became lightheaded as he just walked by.
After being a fan for years, never thinking you’d get to see him perform live… Somehow you didn’t cry but after the fact, you cried so bad as you felt overwhelmed with many emotions that you didn’t completely understand. Being able to hear him sing live, his voice so much more sweet and lovely in person with his dancing somehow looking even better in real life… Something in your inner teen felt healed by the experience. He truly shined on the stage and seeing it with your own eyes you were in utter awe.
Being a sunflower since the Neocity: The Origin tour and only getting to see him for the first time at The Dream Show felt bittersweet. You remember watching the content from that tour almost religiously as it gave you some comfort and always made you smile. Seeing how he was gifted sunflowers by fans then and with every tour in every country, slowly you wished for that to be you. You were never good with words, a gift was always the best way to express appreciation for you. And then it was you as you calculate the toss of the sunflower you held all night onto stage to make sure it doesn’t cause issues with him or any of the other members.
He sees it and then he somehow knows as he looks back and smiles at you for just a second before he goes to pick them up. Your legs shake under you as security approaches you to tell you to go back to your seat. Only months later, watching your concert videos back do you notice how his smile appeared brighter that night after the fact. Only then did you realize perhaps the head pat he gave out as he said goodbye to your side of the stage was possibly meant for you by the way he looked in your direction.
And then, here you were again only with send off this time. Somehow you found yourself at the barricade in a sea of other fans that chatter as they waited for the boys. You felt nervous but knew you’d managed to be able to talk to the other members but if you could actually get words out to Haechan, would they be coherent? That was the question.
While in your own world, the door opened and the room filled with screams as they came out single file. Every member looked around to wave and smile, the very last member being him… He looks so sweet as he smiles and his eyes are filled with a light as he kindly greets everyone he sees. When he turns, you feel petrified as you feel his eyes lock with your own. You feel the world slow just like you did in the moment you tossed those flowers to him months ago… His smile seemed to drop and in turn, you felt your heart drop. There’s no way…
Then you see him swiftly move pass the others to get to you. Oh shit…
He points at you and an even bigger smile is seen as he stands on the other side of the gate as a simply says, “Sunflower?”
For some reason, your mind instantly went to he must be talking about the clip in your hair which you reach up to run your fingers over. How stupid were you to think for a moment he’d remember you?
“Oh, yeah!” You laugh, nervously. “I’m a sunflower.”
“No.” He shook his head. “You gave me sunflowers last time I was here...”
“Oh!” You managed to say, now well aware of how you shook. “I’m so sorry about that. I-“
“No. It made me very happy!”
He smiled at you. Oh my, how he looked so sweet towering above you and how you were not crying you don’t know. Yet, what he said was all you wanted to know…
“I’m so glad…” You admit. “How do you remember me?”
“You left…” He struggled with the right word. “A memory? You laughed about it after and you hid whenever I looked at you.”
You do remember laughing at his security as they came up to you. It was also true whenever he looked your direction you’d hid behind the girl in front of you. He even tells you he didn’t expect it from someone who seemed so shy.
“Where’s my gift today?” He asked. “You didn’t throw it up today…”
Without much thought, you reach into your bag to pull out a letter which you hand to him. He looks around before he sneaks it under his arm as security’s focus is elsewhere. Before he goes to others, you ask for a photo and he quickly signs the photocard you have of him.
“What’s your name?” He tilts his head a bit and you actually feel weak by it as he looks at you.
“Whatever you want it to be.” You shrug.
It gets a laugh out of him as well as the others surrounding you.
“For now, I’ll call you sunflower girl.” He nods as he finishes signing the photo card in his hand before handing it back to you. “Every time I see you, I look forward to a gift from you.”
He smiled before he winked and walked down the line. You didn’t fully process that until the girl beside you gave you the video. You don’t remember how long you screamed into your pillows for. It’s not like he had to tell you that, you would’ve ended up doing it anyway.
[18:25] Waking up from your short nap, you find your best friend Haechan mimicking the position you fell asleep in on your desk, staring at you with an expression that can only be described as admiration and longing.
requested by anonymous: 43, 45, 79 + sprinkle of angst + fluff
[03:54]
you groan, wrapping the comforter around your body, letting out a yawn as you trudge towards the front door, your eyes barely open. the doorbell continues to ring furiously, and you furrow your brows at the ruckus.
you swing open the door, to be greeted by your boyfriend, haechan, who is seemingly panting for air. but honestly, who can tell? you’re not even sure if you’re sleep walking at this point.
“what do you want?” you croak, finally giving in to your heavy eyelids, allowing them to rest on your bottom lids. you feel the gush of wind, along with haechan’s swift act of wrapping his arms around you, bringing you close. he rests his chin on your shoulder, his haggard breaths slowly calming.
“i had a nightmare about you and i just wanted to make sure you’re okay,” he says, his hold around you getting tighter. with the little strength you’re able to muster, you give a few taps to his back, “i can’t breathe,” you say, trying to shimmy out of his grip. he resists.
“stop moving,” he chastises, holding you in place. “i am not losing you again!”
you roll your closed eyes, resigning to your fate. “can we at least go to the bed?” you sigh, finally leaning into the hug. you were just getting comfortable, but haechan pulls away, grabs you by the shoulders, spins you around, and wraps his arms around your waist in a backhug.
“lead the way,” he says. you groan again, shuffling your feet as you make your way to your room. haechan follows closely as you get into bed, his arms never letting go of his grip around you.
once the both of you are settled in bed, he snuggles close, his lips pressed to the nape of your neck.
“you’re safe now. i’ve got you,” he whispers.
feeling a little bad for not giving him the attention he probably needs right now, you shift, turning to face him. you press a kiss to his forehead, hugging his head close, “you’re so dependable,” you commend.
“i’ll always protect you,” is the last thing you hear before you knocked out.
Donghyuck reached an arm out to steady himself on the door in front of him. He’d just finished his longest dance practice to date, having begun at 8am and finishing at 2am, he wanted nothing more than to fall into bed and pass out. He’d started rehearsing with 127, moved over to Dream after lunch and then spent the four hours from 10-2 working on solo practice. He’d texted you to make sure that you knew his schedule, he didn’t want you to stay up waiting for him and ruin your sleep as well.
As much as he wanted to curl up next to you, he couldn’t bring himself to risk waking you by going over to your apartment. He turned the handle of his shared bedroom door in the dorm, almost stumbling when the door he’d been leaning on swung open. He kicked his shoes off quietly, not wanting to wake Johnny, before grabbing some pyjamas and heading into the bathroom to get ready for bed.
He reappeared 10 minutes later and walked over to his bedside table to plug his phone in. He knew he had a day off tomorrow, so he made sure to check that he didn’t have any alarm set. He turned around and looked down at his bed, jumping a little in shock at what he saw there.
You were curled up in his duvet, fast asleep.
Donghyuck swore that in that moment he fell in love with you all over again. As he watched the duvet move up and down with your soft breaths, he was overcome with emotion. It had been such a long day and to come home to you being there when he wasn’t expecting it, Donghyuck found himself blinking back tears.
He moved around to the other side of the bed and pulled back the covers before crawling in. You rolled onto your back, making Donghyuck freeze in fear, worrying that he had woken you up. He watched carefully but you made no signs of waking. His eyebrows furrowed as he noticed small mannerisms of yours that made worry course through his veins.
You eyes were moving quickly behind you eyelids and you kept shifting in your sleep. Your brows were furrowed as you turned to face him, but it wasn’t until a small ‘no’ slipped out of your lips that he realised you were having a nightmare.
Donghyuck’s eyes went wide, all feelings of tiredness evaporating as he realised your distress, and he lowered himself onto the bed so that he was next to you. He gently lifted up a hand, brushing the odd pieces of hair out of your face, before moving his hand lower and stroking your arm. Your body responded, rolling over so that you were closer to him. Hyuck managed to get one arm underneath you as you rolled, enabling him to completely wrap you up in his embrace.
He stroked your hair with one hand and rubbed comforting circles into your back with the other, all while whispering sweet nothings into your ear.
‘Don’t panic baby, I’m here. I’m gonna protect you, gonna keep you safe.’ He placed his lips on your forehead for a kiss. ‘I love you so much. So damn much…’
He listened as your breathing calmed into a steady rhythm, smiling to himself, pleased with his accomplishment. He felt your arms move around him and tighten, your head nestling into his neck. He let out a sigh, feeling all the accumulated worries and stresses of the day melt off him as he lay there next to you. He shut his eyes, sleep grabbing a quick hold of him as he came to an adoring conclusion.
Donghyuck didn’t just love you. He was in love with you. Every part of him ached to be with you, to see you, to spend time with you. And he knew, this was it for him. You were it for him.
↳ Lee Donghyuck is great at baseball, and absolute shit at love.
pairing: baseball player! hyuck x reader
genre: baseball!AU, fluff, slight angst, slight crack, slow burn, bff2l!AU, some pining i think?
warnings: injuries, much swearing, pining and obliviousness, lots of food, alcohol, someone gets drunk, parties, drunk kisses , reader is very light weight, more to be added if found
word count: 15.5k words (edited and updated on 15/04/22)
a/n: hmhmhmmm yes yet another bff2l sport au fic for hyuck >:) this was originally for (yet another) sports!AU collab before the host (i-m4rk) deactivated :( i would still like to thank aleina nonetheless for the collab, it really motivated me to write <3
thank you @byeolhyesisi for the beautiful header!!!! its stunning i wouldnt have it any other way <33 and another thanks to @hirokari !!!!!!! tysm for being my first official beta reader and for helping me wiht the fic like 2 days before the release!!!!
and with lots of consideration, i've decided to make a playlist for this fic! songs were chosen by mari (once again, @hirokari ) and it's on her acc since my acc has my personal friends and i dont want them to see my fics HAHA
thank you so much for being here, now enjoy the fic my loves!!!!
playlist here !
i.
When it comes to baseball, Lee Haechan, aka number 66, knows everything. Strategies and tactics, you could always go to him if you needed help.
And according to him, he's pretty good at love too. You call absolute bullshit, because you've been crushing on him for the past 6 months, if he knows so much about love, he should be picking up the hints!
But instead, he brushes it off as just best friend behavior. Who ignores a drunk kiss as best friend behavior?
You watch as Donghyuck swings his arms, the bat in his hands successfully hitting the ball Doyoung had thrown at him. You chuckle at the groan Doyoung lets out, and the victorious whooping that comes from your best friend.
He looks incredibly nice with his baseball cap, it's always been something that's brought your attention. Maybe it's because of the day he said it looked good on you.
"Y/n!"
You don't seem to register, or recognize the voice calling out your name until the person's hand is clasped on your shoulder, and they finally shake you out of your dazed state.
With wide eyes, you find the person calling out for you to be none other than Mark Lee himself, who stifles a laugh behind his fist. "Wow, I didn't know Haechan could do that to you. You were out for like ten minutes."
A fist into his gut causes him to stop his laughter, and instead he doubles over in pain. "Ow! Okay, I'm sorry, jeez."
You retract your fist from Mark, mumbling how you would do it again under your breath, before you turn back to the field.
You probably don't notice, you never do, but you always get immersed by what's going on almost in an instant. Mark notices this every time, and finds it's all because of your best friend.
He remembers the night you came storming into his and Jeno's dorms at 4 am, rambling about how you caught feelings for your own best friend. You went on and on until Donghyuck found you sleeping on Jeno's bean bag by the door.
"How are things with him?"
You turn your head at the very unexpected question, blinking up at Mark with surprise painted all over your face.
"H-huh?"
Mark flicks the side of your forehead, laughing at how you rub the spot he had hurt with a frown, "You know what I mean, Y/n."
"Well," you turn back to the field, and find your eyes trailing and staying on Donghyuck as he runs around. "either I'm really bad at dropping hints, or he's just really fucking blind."
Or the other option, where Donghyuck is very much aware of your feelings for him and is not doing anything about it because he doesn't want anything like that.
Man how you don't want that.
Mark places his hand on your shoulder, patting reassuringly. "He'll see, just trust me."
You trust Mark, you trust him with your life. But not with that. He's been saying it for the past how many months after the drunk kiss he brushed off.
After that party you swore not to drink at parties, after Donghyuck broke it to you that you had kissed him, you thought you would've even faced him.
You promised yourself you would never go to a party. At least, not one Donghyuck would go to as well. A second kiss and he'd see right through you.
Even without being drunk or heck, even tipsy, Donghyuck is and always will be a good person reader. He says it's because of all the true crime documentaries he watches.
Speaking of, Donghyuck mumbles something about yet another one as he packs his duffle bag with his dirty baseball uniform, zipping it right up just as you lean your head back and gaze at your best friend.
He notices how you’re being awfully quiet, and not responding to his questions, like how you usually do. Upon turning, he finds that all you’re doing is simply staring at him, and as your eyes connect, you panic. Checking out your best friend is one thing, but having him catch you checking him out? Especially if it’s Lee Donghyuck?
All you do is shift your gaze to the wide open field, scratching at your wrist nervously. “Sorry what?”
Donghyuck doesn’t answer, instead he takes in your flustered and panicked state, chuckling at your shaky eyes and even shakier voice.
Snatching his (very worn out) baseball cap, he plops it on the top of your head, shaking your head just a second after.
“Ow—what the hell!”
With a jab at your ear, your best friend clicks his tongue, before turning to walk down the bleachers.
He stops suddenly only halfway down, turning his head to wink at you with finger guns. “If you hurry up, I can buy us both lunch.” At this, you grab your backpack, secure Donghyuck’s baseball cap, before racing down the stairs. Free lunch from Lee Donghyuck? Occurs every 6 months, and it feels a little bit like a date. But you won't admit that.
You always liked Donghyuck’s room better than yours. You only had a few decorations here and here and a few pictures of your family and friends back home, but it was practically nothing compared to Donghyuck’s room. Strangely, you have more memories in his room than your own.
You remember unpacking all the Michael Jackson posters he ordered online, making sure not to rip any of them or he would be sure to rip your own soul out. You remember installing the fairy lights he claimed would be aesthetic, and lighting all the scented candles Renjun gifted him simply because Park Jisung couldn’t handle the strong smell of it.
His hoodie has a faint smell of Daegal, Chenle’s beloved daughter/dog, after hiding her in his hoodie’s pocket while sneaking up to his dorms, you remember playing around with her, and the trouble you both were in when you got caught.
And most recently, the excessively expensive laptop stand he bought, that broke after only just a few days of use, but was fixed by dearest Jeno, with the payment of free food for a week.
In other words, Donghyuck’s room (read: only Donghyuck) is more of a home to you than your own room.
The laptop stand Jeno fixed a week ago is on one end of Donghyuck’s bed, the both of you on the other, snuggled up in his blankets as the dialogues of the characters of a Garfield movie whose title you have forgotten drowns out in the background.
The sun is setting, you notice, as the light behind the blinds gets darker and there is less noise from outside. You don't know how many Garfield movies you'd managed to watch by a night, all you know is you’ve had enough of John.
“John kind of reminds me of Johnny,” Donghyuck remarks, as he brings the blanket over your heads. You settle right into the small world you two have made personally just to your liking, warm with the ambience movie night has left the both of you.
You chuckle at his inquiry, curling your legs when you feel a sudden gust of air brush against your knees. “Why? Is it because their names are similar?”
Donghyuck shakes his head, “Just the vibes, you know?”
At this, you start a fit of laughter, a long and hearty one, before you’re left to wonder, “Who’s vibes are you, then?”
“Shrek.” He answers instantly, with no hesitation whatsoever.
“Shrek?”
“Shrek.”
Another laugh slips from your lips before you could stop it, and then you are fully capable of halting. “He’s not even in Garfield, dumbo.”
The glint in Donghyuck’s eyes are bright, mischievous, which shows how clearly fond he is of the situation. He grabs your hand without thought, and you put no thinking into it too.
“So? I’m shrexy and deserve the best life I can get, who doesn’t like Shrek?”
He has a point. About 70% of campus dressed up like him for halloween.
It’s not until Donghyuck slips his fingers between yours, when you notice it. His fingers are soft, warm, and gentle as he pulls your palm closer to his. He’s seeking for nothing but warmth, you know this, but you still can’t help but feel extremely fond of him. Almost too fond. Definitely too fond.
“Who am I, then?”
His hums resonate under the blanket, in the little world you’ve created just for the both of you, it reaches your ears, warms every pit of your stomach, and shakes your heart ever so effortlessly, before he grins and turns to you. “My Fiona!”
Albeit feeling very flustered, you laugh it off, shaking your head amusingly. His Fiona? God, if only he knew the things he does to you.
“Because you act all nice and pretty on the outside, but on the inside you’re just as crazy as me! An ogre!”
“God, I hate you, Lee Donghyuck!”
God, you love Lee Donghyuck.
ii.
“How are you doing?”
Alarmed, you flinch slightly at the sudden voice to your side after not talking to anyone for 2 hours now. You are back at the baseball field, waiting for Donghyuck as usual.
You find that the company who decided to join you is none other than Lee Jeno, number 23 on the field, and one of your friends. You weren’t that close, but you did talk very often. Lee Jeno is one who knows about your harboring, festering, growing crush on your best friend, and he’s completely supportive, apparently.
“I’m good, and you?”
Jeno wipes, the sweat at the back of his neck, shrugging, “I’ve been better. If Chenle let me go to practice maybe I wouldn’t have to run 50 laps.”
"What was he bothering you about in the first place?"
"What else? Lunch."
As expected.
You can do nothing but chuckle and turn back to the exercises unfolding in front of you. You don't entirely get baseball, but you know the general rules (at least you like to think so).You still don't get the hat gestures— or quite possibly the gang signs being thrown out in front of oblivious watchers— and all.
Jeno shifts into a seat next to you, staring rather intently. "So, are you going to do anything about the elephant in the room?"
"What elephant?" You ask. You can't seem to look at Jeno, not when your best friend jumps up and down with snickers when Mark loses some little game to him.
"Your feelings, Y/n,"
At this, you instantly tear your eyes off the field, going to glare at Jeno instead. "Why is it that every time one of you come to accompany me you have to talk about that?"
"You've got to do something about it! I can't stand your movie nights with your flirting and tension. I can feel it from the other room!"
"Well, I don't exactly plan to confess just yet, you know?" Without realizing, you've turned back and started admiring your best friend yet once again. You grin knowingly when he waves over at you and Jeno, waving back shortly.
Jeno grunts when coach calls out to him and beckons him to the field, "Whatever you want, Y/n. I know you two really like each other, it's pretty fucking obvious, so I don't know, drop heavier hints?"
You're not too sure about Donghyuck's feelings for you, and Jeno's advice doesn't seem solid and very believable, but he is right. At this rate, Donghyuck will realize once you two graduate or something.
You sigh and groan when your heart does another flip at the simple action of fixing his hat Donghyuck does. It's just a stupid hat!
That's just the things Donghyuck does to you, you suppose. Scratch that, you know that's one of the many things he does to you.
There's that one time he simply only explained a little bit of the formula you were struggling to understand and you could not focus for the next two hours. The only time you got to focus after that was when he asked which movie to watch after that.
Maybe you should tell him. Would it be awkward for the two of you? Nothing really changed after you kissed him accidentally (read: on purpose. Tipsy, but on purpose.) on the lips at that one party. He didn't even acknowledge it and asked about your headache.
He has your heart in his hold and he doesn't even know he's tossing it around like a baseball.
You really contemplate telling Donghyuck when he reaches your side at the benches, and he notices the way you have something right on the tip of your tongue. He can tell by the way you pick on the skin of your lips and the bouncing of your legs. Yes, something is definitely up with you.
"What is it?" He suddenly asks you. Confused, you hum lightly and lean in, "What?"
"You have something on your mind, I can tell." He points out. First, he points at your leg, "bouncing leg," then reaches up to point at your lips, "skin picking—don't do that by the way, last time it left a really bad wound for days," lastly, he raises his finger to point straight at your eyes. "and your eyes are like, super unfocused. You're looking at so many things at once. What's wrong?"
First, he's what's wrong. Second, how and why does he know all that about you? When did he even notice? And why must he even notice in the first place? There he goes again, making you malfunction without you even knowing.
"I-I'm fine, Hyuck, it's just something Jeno told me before." At this, Donghyuck's eyebrows raise very dramatically. "Ooh, Jeno, huh? Ask you out or something?"
You ought to scoff, and tell him how he said the exact opposite and told you to ask him out, but resist it.
"No, it's nothing, really. I think I'm just really hungry."
Donghyuck halts, and looks up at you with scrunched eyebrows, "Did you not eat lunch?"
You shake your head, "No, actually. Professor Lee had us stay back for an announcement. And then I had to come straight here before the security guards would lock up for their lunch break."
You didn't expect any reaction from Donghyuck but a simple nod of understanding, but instead he's gazing down at you with eyes that are sullen, almost sad. It has you worried instantly.
"I'm so sorry you had to come on an empty stomach." Donghyuck's voice is small, and much to your surprise, guilty. Oh god, was he guilty?
"No—Hyuck it's fine! Really,"
"No, you know what?" You can practically feel the determination radiating off your best friend, as he swings his backpack and duffle bag on his shoulders, "I'm gonna get us both a late lunch."
A double treat in a month? It was like he was trying to steal your heart.
Donghyuck pries off his worn out baseball hat, shoving it on your head.
You're completely sure he's trying to get you to fall in love with him.
And so you have your late-lunch with Donghyuck, or what he would call, a date. How the hell was his intentions not trying to get you to fall in love with him when he calls this a whole date?! And the second one of the month too?! What happened to the once in 6 months treatment Donghyuck?
"I feel guilty," Is his plea. "Y'know you really didn't have to come to practice for me, then."
"Okay, first?" You reach over with a tissue in hand, wiping off the leftover crumbs and maple sauce from the corner of his lips. "Don't talk while you're chewing. You sound ridiculous and there are crumbs everywhere and you can choke."
You chuck the tissue into an empty box of fries, clapping off the crumbs that stuck to your fingers. "And second, I don't regret going without an empty stomach. Look where it ended me! In the canteen, and you're treating me, for fucks sake! This is a win for me."
Donghyuck purses his lips narrowing his eyes at you, "Suddenly I don't feel guilty about having you come to the field with an empty stomach. You know what? Next time you show up hungry, I'm not gonna buy you food."
"Ouch, okay then. Leave the Fiona to your Shrek to starve. Yeah, that's real ogre behavior."
Donghyuck's laugh bounces around the room, resonating in your ears, and you can't help but crack your façade and laugh along with him. Late-lunch is nice, you like late lunches. Especially ones with Pancakes. You don't know why he got pancakes for the two of you, but you don't mind, and you won't question it.
Donghyuck however, has a question for you.
"What did Jeno say at the field?"
"Oh," You are surprised he remembered that, even you didn't really remember it. "just something about Chenle getting him late and granting him fifty laps." That is part of what you two talked about, but you're sure not gonna tell Donghyuck about the other elephant you talked about.
"Oh, okay, cool."
Why do you want him to be interested in the conversation you had with Jeno? He wasn't even in it, and he doesn't even seem curious anymore, but you want him to know. Do you want him to feel jealous? Do you want him to know about your feelings?
"You know," You start. God, are you seriously gonna do this now? "there is this guy,"
Donghyuck instantly perks up at this, swallowing the last of his pancake and wiping his mouth clean. "Ooh, what guy?"
"He's..." How do you describe your crush in front of your crush? Who also happens to be your best friend? "...cool, I guess."
"Wow, let's see if I find him cool."
You want to snicker because of all the time he's boasted about himself and claim how cool he is. "I think he's cool."
"Really?"
You nod at his question, "Yeah. He's your age, actually. He has lots of moles and he's really good at gaming. Though he can be really competitive at times, and he cheats as well, in the end he can accept defeat when defeated."
There was one time where he lost to you in Mario Kart, despite all the times he's tried cheating, and accepted the penalty, which was making dinner and washing the dishes.
"He has a hobby of tracing whatever is in front of him when he talks, and he really likes dogs."
Donghyuck often goes to Chenle's house just for his dog, even though it was a whole 2 hour drive. He claims no matter the distance or time, he'll always make time for those he loves. Which is basically only Daegal.
"He sounds very familiar," Donghyuck mumbles, taking a fry from your plate.
Suddenly, your heart beats quickly and the loudest you've ever felt it race. You can feel the blood rushing to every vein, every beat of your heart resonating through your ears as you see Donghyuck trying to connect the pieces.
"I think I know who this guy is..."
"Really?" You can barely say anything above a whisper, you can't even look at him without having the urge to look away immediately. This was it. He was finally gonna find out about your feelings, and you're gonna have to face whatever his response is.
"It's Lee Jeno!"
...That was the last response you were expecting.
Donghyuck thinks he hit bullseye, he's so very convinced he is when you suddenly choke on your burger and cough hardly, he truly believes he's caught you red handed.
"Oh my god, you think Lee Jeno is cool?!"
You attempt to refuse, to shake your head and yell at him about his shitty hint picking skills, but all you can do is chug your can of sprite to wash down the food from your throat as Donghyuck celebrates at his achievement.
Unlike what he claims about being so good at love, he's absolutely shit at it.
iii.
"I swear to fucking god, Jaemin, I will punch him the next time I see him."
"Yeah? Is it because you find it really hot or the fact that—ow!"
You retract your arm from Jaemin's side with a glare, and earn a petty frown from him.
You came here originally to study and do some Physics homework, but yet once again, any teammate of Donghyuck will always have to comment about your feelings for him.
You swore you wouldn't tell a soul about what happened at the cafeteria, but Jaemin has his way of tricking you into spilling tea. You spilled every moment of it, finding that Jaemin's attentive listening lead you into ranting about how stupid your best friend can be.
"This is basically a rejection, isn't it?" with a sigh, you lean and press your cheek against the hardcover of your physics textbook. "He says it's Jeno because he doesn't want it to be him."
"No, no." Jaemin mumbles. Strangely, it's a lot more comforting than his previous quip, he sounds a lot more sincere and genuine. At this, you look up from your book, into the hopeful and bright eyes of your study buddy.
"We both know he's just really fucking stupid." Yeah, he really is.
"Just give him a reality check, or something. Make something really big to the point where he's realizing his stupid mushy feelings for you and you can finally get together."
Something big? Like flashy big, or a impactful bomb kind of thing?
"What should I do, then?"
Jaemin shrugs, his pen flying across his notebook to write down a few points he missed. You're gonna have to ask him for those notes later. "I don't know. You're the one that knows him best, right?"
He checks his watch momentarily, and a moment later he's packing his stuff. You check the clock, 10 minutes until your next class. You feel a bit for Jaemin, because his next class is in a whole other building.
"Get him jealous, or scream at his face, or something. I'll see you later, gotta go drop off Renjun's lunch that I promised I'd get him and sprint to building B. Hope I don't end up late, bye!"
Jaemin bids you goodbye, promising to send you his notes, along with a last note to do something fast before Donghyuck actually sets you up with Jeno, and all you do is wave back shortly, with his words hanging heavily on your mind.
Getting him jealous won't get you anywhere but yet another petty silent treatment. Last time he got jealous of you and Yangyang going for lunch without him and he wouldn't eat lunch with you for 2 whole weeks. Another time when you went to the movies with one of your classmates and he refused to watch a single movie with you. That only lasted for 3 days though, he couldn't handle watching Shrek all by himself.
God, why did you even meet him?! A part of you regrets meeting him and catching feelings and accidentally kissing him drunk at that one party, and attempting to confess your feelings only for him to read it differently and all.
But another part of you knows you wouldn't have made it this far without Lee Donghyuck. Without his dad jokes and competitive ass and clever mind and all.
Yet another part of you realizes you've been thinking about your best friend for 10 minutes, and you're about 3 minutes late to class. You blame it on Lee Donghyuck.
Due to your busy schedule, and Donghyuck's busy schedule as well, you actually don't meet up today. It's alright, you needed it really. If you saw his face one more time you might have literally punched him. Or screamed about your feelings, like Jaemin suggested you do.
To be frank, you don't think screaming your feelings at him will work. Either it will flop so hard and he'll laugh at your supposed 'prank' or he finally for once in his life actually believes you.
Why must it be your best friend? Why not a stranger from the train, or someone you bump into and spill coffee on? Heck, even a project partner would be okay. Best friends having feelings... that's not ideal to you.
First, it's very likely for one of you to not have the same feelings, and if you do then you might just realize it was just because you were touch starved and you go back to being best friends.
God, do you want that juicy spicy dramatic love story where both the characters are in love, but their status and family keeps them apart so they go off and get married without their families knowing--
Your laptop is suddenly shut, and the movie (movies, actually. You can vaguely remember watching all the Princess Diaries, and perhaps The Notebook, you're not too sure.) you were watching stops. Alarmed, and a tiny bit offended, you look up, only to see your roommate staring at you with her hands on her hips.
"What do you want?"
She looks you up and down with a small frown, shaking her head. You look like you're sick, all wrapped up in your blankets with your room all dark. Without the light from your laptop, your room is completely dark, and you seem to struggle with adjusting your eyes to the dark.
"I think you've watched too many romance movies." She mumbles, staring at your state. Honestly, you think so too.
"I'm going out to the grocery store, you wanna come along?"
Deciding it would be better for you to move around and actually get some fresh air (and the offer of your roommate buying you whatever ice cream you want), you decide you will be coming along.
It's a nice trip, really. You haven't caught up with your roommate in quite some time, so it's great to hear about her recent adventures and fun. She's taking a gap year, after you two graduated from high school she swore she didn't want anything to do with education ever again.
There are two large grocery bags in your hands, and as usual, you're stuck to cart duties.
Among the two of you, you weren't the best at picking the quality things. Except for fruit. Your mother taught you which fruits were fresh and which were not.
Though your body was at the grocery store, your soul is still in your bed, and your mind resides in the conversation you had with Jaemin. Well, with Jaemin, Jeno, and Mark.
Would it really be that bad if you confessed?
Probably.
Do you have the guts?
At this point, you do. You're so sick of dropping all the hints only for Donghyuck to pick them up and turn them upside down, or just straight up marching all over them.
"Y/n, fruits,"
At your roommate's voice, you perk up, and indeed, you have wandered all the way from the entrance to the fruit section without realizing.
You really can't pick which fish to take home, and you should be stopped, really. What if you pick up a really bad mango and it ends up being really sour?
Your roommate goes to the fish section to choose which is going in tomorrow's lunch, and leaves you alone. You stand there, mindlessly tapping at all the mangoes and apples, and though you look very focused. You are not.
Maybe... you should tell him. What are the chances of him rejecting you and drifting away leaving you with a broken heart? Big chances.
But what if he does like you, and say you don't confess until you're both really old after you both have moved on. That's not bad, not bad at all, but at the present you would really like to date Donghyuck.
You decide there, in the middle of a grocery store, with mangoes in your hands and the cold nipping at your skin despite the heavy sweater you wear, that you will tell Donghyuck about your feelings. Scream at him, if needed!
Surely it can't be that bad.
You go home with all the mangoes that had helped you decide on what to do, only to find out that they were the sourest mangoes you have ever tried.
Darn you, Lee Donghyuck.
It's been 2 days since you have last seen Donghyuck, and you are determined and ready to tell him about your feelings, whether it hurts you or not.
You don't know what he's been doing for the past 2 days, for he didn't text you once like he usually does. It must be that one math assignment he finally decided to start on.
Speaking of the devil, your best friend climbs up the bleachers quickly, going to meet you at the top with a big grin on his face. He's changed into his baseball uniform, his baseball hat in his grasp and instead of his head.
Your heart quickens and beats loudly in your ears with every step he takes closer to you, your leg starting to anxiously bouncing up and down and your fingers picking at the skin of your lips.
Quickly, you stop your nervous antics, remembering the time Donghyuck had commented about them the other day. If he caught you this time, you would be sure to mess this up.
"Donghyuck, I—"
"—Y/n!"
He completely disregards you off with no hesitation, seemingly excited to tell you something himself, his grin stretching up to his ears. Though you are nervous and anxious, you can't help but feel a little giddy at how brightly he looks at you. Your voice instantly dies down in your throat, as you wait for your best friend to continue.
He scooches next to you, all while trying to catch his breath, "You won't believe what I did!"
"What did you do?
Donghyuck reaches into his pocket, struggling a little bit, but he eventually fishes out his phone, along with a (very messy and crumpled) piece of paper.
He shoves them into your face, though you cannot see anything and he hasn't even turned his phone on or unfolded the paper. "I still don't know what it is, Hyuck."
Donghyuck backs away from your face, rolling his eyes, but proceeds to turn his phone on and unfold the paper.
It's messy, and you can just barely make out what's written on the paper. It has different colors and pen marks, proving it's trial and error of the process.
"What's this?"
Donghyuck promptly clears his throat, and holds his chin high, clearly proud of his creations. There's a light smirk curling on his lips as he gazes at your curious eyes trying to peek at the paper.
"This, my dear Y/n," He reveals the paper right before you, slamming it on the small space left between the two of you, "is number 66's guide to love!"
He worked hard on it, you can see from all the scribbled words and many side notes on the corners of the paper, and you have to say it looks really cute.
You point at the top of the paper, the title. "Did you write the '2' because you had no space to put it as a legit word?"
"Hush, hush," Donghyuck swats your hand away, "that's not what we're supposed to be looking at."
He points below the title, where the bold words 'LEE JENO'S HEART' is written in a red marker. Below are all the things you mentioned to Donghyuck when you were trying to confess to him.
"Donghyuck—"
"—now I know, I'm a really good friend. I spent a whole 2 days making it, so use it wisely, okay? I have to go now,"
Before you can say anything else, Donghyuck ruffles your head and pinches your cheek with a grin, before he sprints down to the field.
His hair that bounces with each step he takes usually makes you want to run your fingers through them, but after what happened, you want to smack him across the back of his head.
You are so screwed.
iv.
The paper was crumpled and so very messy, and you hoped that if you maybe crumpled it up a little more, you would tell Donghyuck and he would just leave it at that, but Lee Donghyuck being Lee Donghyuck, he made mobile version just for you.
'I have to be thorough, or you might just mess up the whole guide!'
And what are you supposed to do now, tell him that his guide was practically baloney to you and that you were talking about him the whole time?
"Honestly, I think you should."
You throw Jeno a glare at his remark, but you look less threatening to him with the grease and cheese surrounding your lips and stuffed cheeks.
As the guide says, Lee Jeno likes pizza. You told Jeno about the whole 'number 66's guide 2 love' thing, and how Donghyuck instructed you to ask him out on a date, and now here you are.
You wouldn't necessarily call it a date, when you're venting to your date about your crush who isn't on the date with you.
Jeno grabs another slice of pizza for himself, his third slice of the night. If coach caught him eating like this, he'd probably burst. The team was advised to go on a diet due to the upcoming game they had against a nearby rivalry school, and so they haven't treated themselves in quite a bit.
Well, Donghyuck did have that burger and pancake with you, but that was before coach said how important it was.
"Does this mean we have to like, date??"
Your question causes Jeno to choke on his pizza, and he reaches out to wash it down with some soda.
"What the fuck?! No! God no, ew! No offense."
Waving it off, you have to say you feel the same way. Jeno is more of a brother to you. Not that close, but somewhere there.
You still feel conflicted, heck, you even look conflicted to Jeno. You really don't know what to do, with such an oblivious best friend whom you love, and tried to confess to.
"Should I just kiss him drunk again?"
Sighing, Jeno shakes his head. "Y/n, you don't have to do anything, okay? Maybe take some time off him, I don't know?"
You're confused at his statement; take some time off him. What does that mean?
"I mean," Jeno swallows the last of his pizza, wiping the corners of his lips, "you seem pretty stressed because of him, take some time and sort out your feelings!"
You think you need that. You really need that. You missed when you didn't have stupid feelings for your stupid best friend. The fun and love from a best friend is one thing, but wanting more and romantic love? Probably one of the most terrifying moments of realization in your life.
You remember the moment it happened, it was a warm and sunny day. Thankfully, a free day for you. He came rushing in right after his classes ended, and pounced on top of you with laughs and claimed how he wanted to stay there forever.
And then, just as you looked into his eyes, you had a feeling, you had an urge. You wanted to kiss your best friend. You had the urge to smooch him, for heaven's sake!
That moment he laughed and buried his head in your blankets, you knew you had feelings, and you knew you were done for.
"Just don't think of him." Jeno states, pushing the pizza box towards you. You take this as an invitation to eat more, and accept thankfully. "and if you do, don't say anything about him. Think of something else,"
So you do. You try to forget Donghyuck, perhaps just for a few hours, or a day. Just hanging out with Lee Jeno and stuffing your faces full of pizza, talking about Doyoung's musical acting gig, or perhaps Renjun's crazy alien stories, everything, really.
For now, you need to be Donghyuck-free, to clear out your mind and really decide on what to do.
Donghyuck himself can't seem to finally decide on what to do.
It's only been a few hours since you've left, and strangely, he feels... weird. He knows you're going for some lunch with Jeno, you've texted him several times asking if he could choose which outfit was good.
Anything looked great on you, he knows. He also knows Jeno knows that as well, so he simply told you not to worry and to wear whatever you thought was good.
But for some reason... he felt unusual. There was no doubt you've asked him for his opinion on your outfits and such, there was a time you were invited to a dinner party with his family and you changed about 15 times, but every time you looked perfectly fine. He felt fine.
So why was he feeling so weird now?
Now that he thinks of it, he's been feeling a bit weird around you for the past few months.
Something about you has him feeling weird.
He's always felt comfortable around you, he has been since the day he met you, but he finds him a little more tense lately. So strange.
And he thinks about you a lot, like when he glanced at the Garfield CD's you used to watch all the movies the other day, he's thinking of the way you mumble about wanting to eat Lasagna. Or his sweater on the corner of the room, you always said you liked the warmth it had. And his baseball hat, he likes it when it's on yo—wait, what?!
Donghyuck doesn't like the fuzzy feeling sitting at the bottom of his chest every time he's reminded of you. So instead, he's decided to maybe watch a few movies, read a book, heck, do an assignment!
But he still can't ignore the shake of his heartstrings when you send him a selfie of you and Jeno together with pizza in your hands. He'll blame it on the fact that he doesn't like pizza, but all the times he's gone midnight pizza baking with you beg to differ.
v.
Just as Jeno suggested, you tried to take your mind off your festering feelings for Donghyuck.
First, he brought you around town, showing you the small and hidden places of town he found with Jaemin, which shocked you because you thought you'd been to almost every part of town.
Apparently not, because you didn't even know they sold old vinyl discs and posters from the 90's, all vintage and aesthetic. Now you know where Jaemin goes when he feels like getting some decoration.
And then you went for dinner, a simple dozen box of glazed donuts since they were on sale. 50% off, who were you to reject such an offer?
You have to say, you definitely feel much more relaxed, and much more connected with Jeno. He told you about things you never thought he would do, like the time he and Jaemin were middle schoolers, and skipped class for ice cream and came across a teacher the moment they walked out the door.
You’re pretty sure present Jaemin would still do the same thing.
And after that, you took the whole week to yourself. A whole solid 5 days, for you to go do whatever you wanted.
At first, you didn’t know what to do, you had sat on your bed for a whole 3 hours on your phone, not sure of what to do. You watched a bunch of videos on what to do, and after a solid 2 and a half hours of scrolling through Instagram reels, you decided you would make yourself a cake.
Nothing too big or exciting, really, but you found it really soothing. There’s something about mixing ingredients and smelling the delicious dough and eating a chunk of it raw that’s just so special. In the end, it was a small cake with barely enough frosting, but it was marvelous to you, for it was the first time you’ve baked in quite a while.
And then after that, you went to watch another movie, and then work on some homework, and hit the hay for the day.
For the course of the next few days, you didn’t exactly do anything too big or fun, though you would sometimes text Jeno and report to him of your feelings. Now that you realize it, you had such a clear mind and had some fun on your own (especially during painting, Bob Ross was definitely onto something). Jeno was right.
But at the same time, you did lie to him. Just a little bit. How could you possibly not occasionally think of Lee Donghyuck? The baking reminded you of the time you made a surprise birthday party for Mark, but failed miserably as you messed up the recipe. In the end, Donghyuck bought a cake from the bakery down the street, but you did attempt to make another cake the next day. It worked out okay, but was a bit burnt because the two of you were busy cuddling on the couch to notice his awfully quiet timer he set for the cake.
Not to mention painting, and that one time Donghyuck wanted to paint something better than Renjun. In the end he got paint on your sweatpants, nearly had a breakdown because of it, and ended up giving you a pair of his instead.
Okay, yeah, sure you’ve been thinking about Donghyuck. Just a little.
Alright, maybe a lot.
At least you didn’t have to deal with his nagging (that you really miss).
With a clear mind of 5 days, now you can say you still have a crush on your best friend, but it’s not that big. At least you think. Sure, you thought of him a little, but when you think deeper, you question why you even like him.
And by the end of the week, you still question it. But it’s less stressful.
And today, you’re to meet up with Donghyuck, during lunch at the library. You’re excited, really, it was weird to be apart from someone you would be around constantly. A tiny bit lonely.
The library is awfully busy for only 2 in the afternoon, didn’t people eat at the canteen? What happened to that?
Because of this, each seat and desk is preoccupied with either a student with a book, or their laptop out as they do some homework, so here you are, sitting at the back of the library with your phone out and waiting for a text, a call, anything from your best friend. He’s 15 minutes late, which isn’t exactly unusual, but after not seeing him for a solid week, you’re practically shaking with excitement and anticipation to see him.
In your other hand, is a Garfield comic book you found lying around in the kid’s section, and thought it’d be funny to show Donghyuck.
Not so funny, because the moment you opened the book you got a deep paper cut. Right now it has nothing but a tissue wrapped around the wound, soaking through the thin material.
Before you can even realize it, there are rushing steps coming from your right, light pants coming from the same person, before Donghyuck flops down next to you and chucks his backpack across and against the other book shelf.
Once you do realize it’s your best friend whom you had been waiting for, you smile instantly, your heart racing just a little bit. He looks at you with just as wide of a smile on his face, the excitement radiating off him.
“Hey,” Donghyuck breathes out, still catching his breath lightly.
You respond with a soft chuckle, one that stretches his smile even further. “Hi,”
He scoots closer to you, his knee bumping against yours, and that’s when he realizes you’ve decided to wear the sweatpants he gave you after he quite literally ruined yours with paint. It makes him soft inside. “So, how did it go?”
For a moment, you’re confused. How did what go? And then you realize, he was talking about the ‘date(s)’ you went on with Lee Jeno.
“Oh, it was okay, really. Nothing too special happened.”
“You still have my guide, right?”
At this, you unlock your phone, and face it to him, showing his guide to Lee Jeno’s heart. Though you’re a tiny bit upset he mentions it, his triumphant smile makes you feel anything but upset.
However, just a moment later, his smile is curled down into a frown, and his eyebrows scrunch up. You’re not too sure what exactly he’s looking at that’s making him react that way, but you end up finding out a moment later when he grabs your wrist and brings your hand closer to his face.
“What’s this?”
Donghyuck’s fingers clasp at the tissue on your finger, before he pulls it off and finds the papercut. The small grunt of disapproval that leaves his lips is adorable, really, and with the grumpy look on his face? Now you’re questioning why you even questioned in the first place.
Your best friend reaches over to grab his backpack once more, dragging it to his side, before one of his hands is diving into it and searching for something. His other hand is busy holding your wrist gently, being careful not to hurt or irritate the cut in any way.
He pulls out a pack of band aids, as you recognize it to be, but it seems a tad bit different. And you are proven right, as he unwraps one of them, and places it on your papercut. He straightens the band aid out on your finger, before he blows lightly on it, and backs away from your hand with a satisfied smile.
Wrapped around your finger, is a Chewbacca designed band aid, his furry face right on top of your cut. He looks funny with his face curved.
What is also wrapped around your finger, is none other than Lee Donghyuck himself, who stares at you intently as you snort at the band aid on your finger.
You have the answer to your question now. Why do you like Lee Donghyuck? Because he’s an absolute dork who carries around emergency star wars themed band aids in his bag, who will take care of your simple paper cut, who reminds you of your weekly coffee schedule and how the canteen is giving out free cookies, who looks at you as if you’ve hung every star and planet–who looks at you as if you were everything in his solar system in his sky as you tell him about your week.
You have a big fat crush on Lee Donghyuck because he cares about you.
vi.
Due to Donghyuck being convinced that you’re still into Jeno and going out with him, you don’t see him for a long time once again.
‘I wanted to give you two some space,’ He had claimed, a small teasing smile on his face.
It’s too much space, really, because Jeno’s not even seeing you. He’s busty trying to beat Jaemin at this one game and stuff.
So for the course of a couple of weeks, you’re alone. Well, not alone. You did hang out with Jeno and a couple of your friends, but that was like 3 times. And they were all short period meals. You would usually spend hours chilling on Donghyuck's bed (procrastinating, yes).
With all this time in your hands, you've realized.
You are completely smitten for Lee Donghyuck, completely whipped, you might even say.
With all of this time in Donghyuck's hands as well, he's realized.
He misses you, deprived, he might even say. And a tiny bit jealous. But he'll blame it on the days he hasn't seen you.
However, he knows you'll be here, how could you not? It was the teams first game of the season, there’s no doubt you would come and support them. Donghyuck claims it's for them, but the tiny spark in him hopes it's just for him. The spark flickers when he remembers your (supposed) crush on Jeno.
Speaking of his teammate, Jeno nudges his shoulder to Donghyuck’s, sensing the slight nervousness and anxiousness radiate from him. “Hey, you okay?”
It takes a few seconds for Donghyuck to realize he’s talking to him, before he blinks once, twice, and finally understands his words. “Oh, no yeah, just a bit nervous.”
Last time there was a game, Donghyuck had a shin injury and couldn’t join for all the games, instead he sat in the bleachers with you, and cheered the team on. It made him a bit sad, but you and his friends were able to cheer him back up and feel motivated to heal.
Right, that’s just what he needs. Your encouragement, he’ll surely feel confident if you cheer for him, right?
Jeno already knew this before, which is why he had set off before the game and asked if you could go and calm his nerves a little. Of course, you agreed, but only after you buy Jisung and Chenle their snacks. They kept bugging you about it, and so you’re stuck in the canteen just minutes before the games.
“God, can you guys hurry up?”
Chenle snaps his head to you with a pointed look, a distasteful frown on your lips. “Don’t rush us or we’ll choose the wrong ones. You know what happens then, right? You’d have to come back here and buy us more snacks!”
“Okay, fine, fine.” You wave off, checking your phone for the time. About 13 minutes before the game starts. There’s a notification under the clock, and says its a text from Jeno. You unlock your phone to check it.
Lee Jeno 🐶:
[4:36 pm] Hyuck’s getting pretty nervous
[4:36 pm] How much longer are they gonna take?
You:
[4:37 pm] cna’t rush them, chenle’s gonna drag my ass back here later if i do
[4:37 pm] *can’t
Lee Jeno 🐶:
[4:37 pm] he says he’s gonna wait for you, the rest of us are gonna go to the benches
[4:38 pm] just be quick, okay?
It’s not until about 7 minutes before the game is supposed to start, when you finally get to Donghyuck. You’re rushing, panting, with 2 bags of chips and drinks in your arms for Chenle and Jisung while they go look for seats.
Donghyuck’s relieved to see you, just your presence is making him calm down, and the way you look very ridiculous with your plastic bags, it’s almost as if you came in such a state to cheer him up.
“Sorry I’m a bit late,” You manage to breathe out, before raising the bags in your hands. “Chenle and Jisung.” Are the only words you manage to sputter out, before you take another big breath.
Donghyuck’s starts to chuckle at your messy state, feeling his body warm up at the sight of you. What is going on with him?
You’re very satisfied with the way Donghyuck reacts to your arrival, even more at his fond smile, at least you could calm his nerves down.
Just a second later, however, Shotaro, a teammate of his, sticks his head in with a sheepish smile, “Hi guys, coach says to be out in a few, is that okay?”
Donghyuck’s smile falters a little bit, just a little, but he nods at Shotaro’s words nonetheless, “Yeah, I’ll be out by then.”
Once again, his nerves settle in once again when Shotaro leaves, you can tell by his fiddling of his hat, and the slightly shallow sigh he lets out. He pats his face, and jumps on the spot, rolling his neck and stretches his arms, trying to loosen up.
He is interrupted a moment later, as you had placed your hand on his shoulder. It’s not that surprising, really, but Donghyuck still can’t help but give you those wide glazed eyes he would have when he is surprised. He looks cute.
“You’re gonna do well, don’t worry.”
Simple words, that leave so much comfort to your best friend. The way you say it so confidently, the reassuring gaze you give him, the way your hand rubs soothingly at his arm, he’s almost certain he was gonna do as well as you said he would do.
Where on earth would he be without you?
An urge in you says to do more, as if the small affectionate smile he gives you wasn’t enough.
Soon enough, you were following that instinct, reaching forward to wrap your arms Donghyuck’s body, pulling him towards you. You don’t know what had gotten into you, or how you got so confident, but you don’t regret it one bit. Not when Donghyuck was wrapping his arms around you as well, pulling you tighter towards him. You know it’s all worth it.
“What’s this for?” He mumbles next to your ear. It sends tingles and goosebumps on your body.
“Consider it a good luck hug.”
“That’s new. Is this gonna be a regular thing?”
“If you want,”
Donghyuck can’t help but feel a tiny bit excited at your response, nodding against your shoulder. He also can’t help but feel so grateful for you, rushing to the locker room with 2 full bags of snacks just to calm him down, and even a hug? Donghyuck is determined to win this match.
You pull away, just a little bit, but you still pat at his shoulders with beaming eyes, “Good luck,”
A whirlwind of emotions hits Donghyuck, very unexpectedly, and suddenly he feels all too fond of you. The tiny stray hair that sticks up due to friction with his shirt, the way your lips curl up just for him, heck, the Chewbacca band aid he put on for you a few days ago! You should probably take that off.
“You,” He can’t seem to find the right words to say, to express his gratitude. He has too many emotions he can’t even explain, his nerves are long gone, nothing but happiness settled in him. “Thank you,”
You smile at his words, shrugging.
“for being my…” best friend. Why does that sound a little wrong? Why did Donghyuck want more? But he can’t, no, you’re seeing Jeno. A small part of him can’t believe he was the one who set you up with Jeno, but another says he’s doing the best.
He’d do anything for your happiness.
“for being my best friend.”
vii.
They win, just as you expected. Everyone looks so happy, excited, even the opposing team congratulates them with wide smiles, but you can’t seem to feel happy with them. You’re so glad they won, but you didn’t really focus on the game.
As much as you hate to admit it, you were thinking of nothing but your best friend. It was strange to the people around you, especially to Chenle and Jisung. When they would ask you what the rules were, all you did was hum and go back to staring at an empty patch of grass on the field. You didn’t even react when a penalty was announced by the referee.
And here you are now, left in the empty bleachers of the stadium, with whatever leftovers Chenle and Jisung gave to you after the game. You can think of nothing but the whole situation before the game, and Donghyuck’s words.
‘Thank you for being my best friend.’
It doesn’t really hurt, and you’re not sure if it’s because you’ve grown used to it, or because you haven’t really processed it, but it’s all you can think about. It’s on replay in your mind, leaving you to question once again if you should even try at this point.
You don’t notice the figures that begin to emerge from the locker room, each one marching out like ants.
They all notice you sitting there with two bags for chips and a can of coca cola, staring at your phone as you try to distract yourself.
Donghyuck lights up at the sight of you by the bleachers, excitement bubbling in him at what you would say to him after winning the game. Perhaps another hug?
Just a moment later, he stops. His eyes linger on you as Jeno runs up the steps and approaches you, his heart clenches strangely when you look up and smile at him. Why is he feeling this way? Why is he so bothered by the way you look at Jeno with bright eyes?
Donghyuck doesn’t realize that he’s come to a halt until someone else stops right next to him, gazing up at the both of you as well. He realizes it’s Shotaro who’s come and stopped next to him, glancing at the both of you, and then to Donghyuck.
“You okay?”
“I’m–” Donghyuck’s words stop. He can’t shake off this unpleasant feeling, instead, it gets worse when Jeno sticks out a hand to you and picks you up from your seat, helping you dust off all the crumbs from your coat. “–not so sure,”
“You know, I see the way you look at her. It’s different,” Shotaro adjusts his backpack with his uniform, accidentally bumping it to Donghyuck’s. “I think you like her.”
At this, your best friend whips to the side, shocked as ever, “What?! No! No, I think you’ve got it wrong! You–”
The look Shotaro gives him is stern, almost as if to ask for the truth, as if he knew he was lying.
“–I don’t, okay? And even if I did, Y/n likes Jeno. Not me.” He turns back to you two, as you converse about something, throwing up an arm in your direction. “I mean, look at her! She looks–she is happy with him. Who am I to ruin that?”
“So, you’re denying your feelings because you think she’s happy?” Shotaro points out, and it’s a bit scary at how easily he could read the whole situation. “And you don’t want to ruin it?”
Yes! You look so fucking happy and he loves that you're happy, but he can't say full heartedly that he's completely satisfied. Not when he wants to make you happy like that, he wants to see you smile, he wants to be the reason you smile in the first place!
But what can he possibly do to have you smile like that, with so much love? Be a best friend?
Platonic love... he's got that. He's used to it. As much as it is absolutely terrifying and dreadful to admit, Donghyuck wants more than that. More than platonic cuddles and friendly kisses on the cheeks and movie nights and dates and whatever the fuck you two have.
Donghyuck stares at you, your smile, your pretty eyes under the lights of the stadium, your fingers fiddling with the band aid he gave you. He can faintly hear your laughs from a distance, your muffled words, and he realizes that he loves you.
Shotaro leaves one last pat at his shoulder, before stepping forward and setting off to Sungchan, who waves him over with a loud congratulations, “You make her happier,”
He does, Donghyuck remembers the way you mumble about how you didn’t want to take off the Chewbacca band aid because of how cute it looked, and how it was from him, and he remembers the laughs you let out when he had called you the Fiona to his Shrek, and every memory he has of you laughing because of him.
He wants to make you happier, he’s determined to, but the way you walk out the stadium with Jeno makes him a tiny bit worried.
viii.
As this game was one of the first in a long time, that they've won, as like all the other times, they've decided to throw a celebratory party.
Nothing too crazy, or at least that's what it seems like on the outside.
On the inside, it seems tamed enough. A few people are dancing, most people are congratulating the team on their win. Like every other celebratory party.
It's strange really, how you're here. Donghyuck knows you don't like parties, so why are you here?
Was it because Lee Jeno was the one who invited you? You never wanted to go to parties when Donghyuck invited you to some.
Donghyuck wants to slap himself, of course you would take up the offer, you like Jeno, not him.
Your best friend doesn't really want to approach you. One, he's absolutely terrified of rejection, and two, it's not like you want to hang out with him, right? Just Jeno.
Donghyuck doesn't like this foreign feeling of jealousy, especially when it's directed to both his best friends. He can't help but feel like a complete asshole because of the emotion, and he wants to kick himself every time he feels it.
Instead, he tries to distract himself by thanking everyone who congratulates him after a long time of not being out in the field.
While you, try not to think about Donghyuck's words. It's a tiny bit difficult when Jeno notices and tries to get you to spit it out when you wouldn't tell him.
"Oh my god I swear it's nothing, at all."
Jeno doesn't believe you, not a single bit, but he's unable to question you further on it when someone calls him over.
He turns to you with a stern look, poking at your forehead, "This isn't over, you have to tell me sooner or later, okay?"
You wave him off with incoherent noises of (false) agreement, pushing him the other way when the stranger calls out to him yet once again.
If you were to tell Jeno, all he'd do is just wallow in disappointment and just tell you to go up to him and confess.
Strange how you know exactly what he would say and do, and yet you still don't want to do whatever he advises you to do.
One glance across the room, and you spot Donghyuck, talking to a small group of people, who you think have congratulated him on his win.
He looks oddly nice with all the vibrant colors going around the room, a humble smile on his face. Man, he looks too good in just a sweater.
"Hey, Y/n!"
An unexpected call of your name causes you to turn around, trying to find the person who called out to you. It's a mix of two people, you notice, the two people being Kim Jungwoo and Xiao Dejun, two beloved members of the baseball team.
At their enthusiastic voices and bright smiles, you can't help but mirror their happiness, waving them over.
Once they've reached your side, you instantly reach out and bring them both in a warm hug, laughing along to their words of amusement.
"Congratulations, guys! You did so well,"
Jungwoo coos at your words, swinging the group hug side to side, "Awe, thank you!"
Dejun also thanks you, though you can barely make out what he says when he's laughing at the way Jungwoo is swinging you three quite aggressively.
Finally, you part from the warm hug, and decide to talk about how the game went since you barely payed attention to any of it. (Once again, courtesy of Lee Donghyuck, along with a lot more of your crises.)
They tell you of each penalty and interesting thing of the game, with bright eyes and wide smiles, you can almost see the scene right in front of you when they emphasize each turn and twist.
You feel a sense of pride with each fun detail the two make, though you feel a bit guilty for not paying attention as well.
Suddenly, a random student approaches you three, holding a cooler with drinks. His smile is polite, as he pops open the cooler, gesturing to the many drinks contained inside it.
"Care for a drink?"
Dejun denies quickly, "Oh, no thank you." He recalls Donghyuck telling the team of how you swore never to drink after that one party. He wouldn't want to make a mistake and get you drunk again.
The student nods, closing the cooler, before turning to roll it to another group of friends.
A part of you is glad the cooler is rolling away, clearly opposed to the thought of getting even a slightest bit tipsy.
But another part of you says to do it. You're a bit shocked that you're even drawn to the thought of drinking, but it's a lot more tempting than you would want.
Before you know it, you're reaching out and tapping at the cooler guy, "Wait!" To your companions' surprise, you take a few drinks from the cooler, a bottle just almost slipping from how much condensation is on the bottle.
Jungwoo reaches out and halts you before you can pop the first one open, "Y/n, are you sure?"
You shrug his hand off your shoulder, opening the first drink. "I'm sure I'll be fine. Besides, we should celebrate your win! A celebratory drink,"
Before the two can stop you, you're already taking a swig from the drink. They glance at each other worriedly, not sure whether to stop you or not.
Donghyuck hasn't seen you in about an hour. He's at least expected you to congratulate him for his win, or something, but instead he got nothing.
To be frank, he is more worried than upset, really. Where have you gone? What are you doing? He even checked with Jeno, and even he didn't know about your whereabouts.
Did you perhaps leave? He knows about your distaste for parties, he was basically the reason you distaste it in the first place.
Donghyuck glances to his phone, hoping the notification he had just received was from you. A call, a text, voice message, anything.
Instead, he's disappointed at the sight of a text from Jungwoo. Sighing, he quickly unlocks his phone, just to text Jungwoo that he was busy trying to do something, but is surprised at the text he receives.
Zeus B):
[8:32 pm] Heya could you head over ti the kitchen?
[8:32 pm] Y/n is abhir drunk
Though there are typos and though Donghyuck can barely make out what he was trying to type, your best friend gapes at the two words he never thought he would find together in a sentence.
You're drunk?!
How could you be drunk?! Why would you even drink in the first place?!
Donghyuck locks his phone without even responding, heading to the kitchen as fast as he can.
His mind is running with thoughts and questions, he's confused and concerned and oh so frustrated.
Once he makes it into the kitchen, he spots you almost instantly. How could he not? You're sitting at the counter with a sprite in hand, claiming it to be some alcoholic drink.
You look completely out of it, eyelids heavy, messy hair from who knows what, and a lopsided grin on your face.
The moment you land your eyes on your beat friend, who is approaching you with a sullen expression, you laugh out and hop off the counter, placing your sprite by the sink. (Though, it knocks over and spills just a moment later when you fling your arms around.)
"Hyuckiee!! Congratulations!"
Donghyuck did want a congratulation from you, but not this way.
He catches you when you stumble on your feet, pushing your hands from your face when you attempt to squish his cheeks. "How many drinks did she have?!"
Dejun, by the trash can, takes a peek inside it, and finds the drinks you had. He winces at the sight of something he's sure is definitely not any drink. "Uhm, about three?"
"Jesus Christ, three?!" Last time you had like 2 and a half and you kissed him. Donghyuck can't imagine how you would have acted this time. "That's two drinks too much! Why did you let her drink??"
"She insisted!" Jungwoo exclaims, whacking your hand when you attempt to grab another drink on the counter. "Celebratory drink, or something."
"Alright, fine, I'll just bring her back to my place. Thanks for keeping an eye on her."
He doesn't exactly sound grateful, but how could he ever when they let you drink? Jungwoo says it's no problem, but he looks more apologetic for letting you get out of hand. He also looks much more thankful than Donghyuck does, now that he's keeping an eye on you now.
Jeno has the keys to his dorm room, with how much he goes there to take a nap or do whatever, it's practically his room too.
Donghyuck doesn't really want to face Jeno, he is, after all, the one who took you to this party. Why bring you here when he's not even gonna keep an eye on you? Did he reject you?
"Hey!" Donghyuck slaps at the beck of Jeno's head. Jeno turns around, looking very alarmed, but the moment he sees it's Donghyuck, with you in his arms, he's confused.
"I need my keys."
"My god, what the fuck happened to Y/n?"
Donghyuck's hold on you tightens as he snatches his keys from Jeno, feeling a bit enraged that Jeno didn't even know why you were like this.
"Was gonna ask you the same thing. Did you reject her or something?"
"Wha—reject?!" Jeno sighs, remembering the conversation he had with you earlier. That had to do something with this.
"I think it's something you did. She wouldn't tell me, but you two better talk it out."
Something Donghyuck did?! What did he do?!
Your best friend can't help but think about nothing but Jeno's words, trying to figure out what he did to cause you like this.
He's lucky that Doyoung's place isn't too far from his dorm, or he would have broken down at the thought of having to drag you block after block just to get you to his dorm.
Your steps are wobbly, slow, you seem to have more energy on your arms than legs, with the amount of squirming and flinging you do with your arms.
"It's just a little further, Y/n, we're going to my dorm."
"Yay!! I really like your dorm,"
Donghyuck has to shush you of your incoherent noises and spontaneous laughs, at this time of night, with very strict security, you would have to be super careful.
Consider Donghyuck lucky, because the moment you've arrived at his place, the security guard is nowhere to be found, supposedly in the bathroom.
It's a miracle he could even get you up the stairs and into his room without that much noise.
However, the moment he sets you on his carpet, and turns to get some water, he is shocked at the sensation of your arms wrapping around his waist and your groans muffled in his shoulder.
"Y/n, get off! You're gonna make me spill your water!"
The only response he gets is another groan into his shoulder, and an attempt to step aside, only to tumble right into him again.
Huffing, Donghyuck tries to suppress his frustration, turning around to grasp you by the shoulders. "Look, if you wait patiently over there, and let me get your water, I will..." he tries to find something that will be worth a deal from you, anything at all.
His eyes land in his hoodie on his chair, his treasured Michael Jackson one. He's only let you use it twice, and it always seemed to intrigue you when you come over.
"I'll let you use my hoodie, okay? That one."
Donghyuck's not too sure if you fully understand him, you seem pretty sleepy and your nose is scrunching as it did every time you got confused. He ought to give you a kiss on your nose.
Nonetheless, you retreat to sit on his carpet, despite your wobbly steps. The hoodie is tossed on your lap, before Donghyuck goes back to getting your cup of water. He doesn't have any meds to help you sober up, so for now sleep and a cup of water will have to do. He'll probably just text Yangyang to get some for him.
Donghyuck has the cup of water in hand when he turns around, before coming upon the sight of you struggling to get his hoodie on.
It's a bit hard to see you treat his beloved hoodie so carelessly, but a deal is a deal, the hoodie is yours for the night.
Donghyuck can't help but sigh at the sight of you, wondering what got you in such a state. Maybe if he got to the bleachers before Jeno, maybe you'd be in the party with him, sober, and having fun.
What did he do? Why didn't you tell Jeno about it?
Donghyuck's brain is racking left and right to recall anything he did that came off wrong. You haven't seen each other all week, except for today before the game. When you hugged him, and he thanked you for being his... best friend.
Was that what got you like this? But there's no way, you like Jeno, not him, right? There's a spark of hope in his chest, so small, afraid off it being false hope, but it's definitely there.
Donghyuck is brought back to the situation when you give up and flop on the carpet with half of the hoodie worn properly, one arm in place and the other unable to get into the other sleeve.
You look ridiculous, but the sight is almost endearing to your best friend.
Donghyuck walks over to the carpet, setting the cup of water in his bedside table, before kneeling down to you.
He grabs you from the floor, setting you against his bed. You seem to wake up from this action, before you shift uncomfortably in the hoodie.
Donghyuck laughs at your attempts to fit your arm into the sleeve, but halts you just a moment, afraid you would damage his favorite hoodie.
"Okay, stay still," at the familiar voice of your best friend, your eyes open, and a lazy smile curls on your lips.
"Hi Hyuckiee!" You reach your arm over to poke at his cheek, but instead your fingers shifts to his forehead and presses there instead. He swats your hand away, just as he gets your arm into the sleeve.
Donghyuck takes a seat next to you, quite awkwardly, "So uh, what happened?" He questions, while you prop your head on his shoulder.
He tells you promptly to drink some of the water, but you take his hand that points at the cup instead, playing around with his fingers as you completely ignore his instructions.
"Jeno wouldn't tell me what happened to you."
"Why would I tell Jeno?"
Donghyuck's surprised you understand what he says, let alone talk.
He shrugs, taking his hands away from your hold. "I mean, you like him, right?"
It's like his words trigger something in you, and you lift your head from his shoulder to stare at him with a troubled look.
"What?! I don't like him!"
You don't? Then who were you talking about? He made you a whole guide to Lee Jeno's heart, goddamn it!
"But—but that day in the cafeteria..."
"It was you! I was talking about you, you bonehead!"
Donghyuck completely freezes, blood rushing cold with shock.
Him?
"You're your age, and you have so many pretty moles! See?" You reach over and poke at his cheek, though it slips a second later and you stumble into his arms. "Why do you have so many moles?! And why do they have to be so pretty?! I want to kiss them! I want to kiss you!"
"Wait, wait, Jeno has moles too–”
"--goddamn it! He has like t...two moles!" You hold up two fingers after some calculating, and huff in annoyance. "You have them all scattered and–and spread out and messy like they're the stars!
And Jeno is a cat person! He's totally a cat person! Just b-because he's allergic to them, it doesn't mean he doesn't like them more than dogs. He fucking love cats! And you always hog Daegal and any dog you see! You're the dog person, for fucks sake!
And let's not forget your gaming skills. Sure, Jeno and Jaemin and whoever plays until the morning, but do they get gold league—or whatever it was—after 5 days?! Like you?! No!! They could never!!! Because it's—" you reach over and poke at Donghyuck's cheek again, chuckling drunkenly at him "—you!! S-so just let me kiss you for once!"
Before Donghyuck knows it (and definitely before you do too) you're leaning forwards towards him, and he's shocked at the sight of your puckered lips heading straight for his face.
Your lips land just at the corner of his lips, your arms wrapping around your best friend to hold him still.
Perhaps you were the one who needed to stay still, for you know if you were conscious you'd hate yourself for this moment.
Your lips just barely make contact with Donghyuck's, but either way the sensation of it causes so many things to him. His body is frozen with shock, he can't even think of anything but your words that resonate through his mind, and he feels like your lips felt... so warm. Even if you had quite literally crashed your face to his, the kiss was soft, just for a moment before you slip and tumble into his arms once again.
Like a switch, you fall asleep. Right there, on the carpet with your best friend's arms around you.
Donghyuck lies awake the whole night.
You have a crush on him. Not Lee Jeno.
He's ecstatic, he really is, but still has his doubts. Of course he does, you were drunk when you told him. So very drunk.
Some part of him wants to believe it, wants to finally accept his feelings and be with you happily, but another reminds him constantly that you weren't thinking straight.
And he can't even ask you about it, you're knocked out right on top of him, even when he moved you to his bed.
You look so peaceful sleeping, all warm with his hoodie. Donghyuck's not sure if you're feeling hot or cold, because he feels like the room is so hot, but you're wearing 2 layers and clinging onto him like you were a bear in the middle of winter hibernation. (He thinks you look cute too.)
Perhaps Donghyuck was just overwhelmed. Flustered, confused, happy, frustrated, yes, he's definitely overwhelmed.
He finally falls asleep, only just at 4:30 in the morning, about 5 hours after you had completely knocked out.
When you both wake up, it's definitely long after he falls asleep.
It's a Saturday, thank god for that. You would have missed a couple of classes.
When you wake up, to say you're pretty dizzy is an understatement. Yes, you're dizzy, but your mind hurts even more because of how confused you are.
Where the hell are you? What the fuck happened? What time is it?
You find your answers a bit (read: long time) after you wake up, the headache caused you to sit there on the bed (whose bed?? You're not too sure.) for a whole... you don't know how long, but it's long.
The sun is already high in the sky, and even though the curtains attempt to block it out, it still casts an opaque light around the room.
Blindly, you search for any phone at your side, on the bedside table. You find one, much to your delight, but it's not yours.
The time is 09:25 in the morning.
You recognize the phone's wallpaper, it's... Donghyuck. With Chenle's dog. This is Donghyuck's phone, why do you have Donghyuck's phone?
Holy crap you're wearing Donghyuck's favorite hoodie! Why are you wearing his favorite hoodie?!
You soon come to realize that you're in none other than Lee Donghyuck's room, finding him asleep right next to you.
Your heart jumps, very dangerously when you spot him. He looks... too cute for your liking. Pouty lips parted with slow, deep breaths. His hair is so messy, like when he takes his baseball cap after a whole day. And his arms are still circled around your waist, and you hadn't even noticed.
You don't know how long you spend staring at him, but it's long enough for your heart to swell with so much love, your cheeks to heat, so much more than when you had woken up, and there's a smile threatening to curl on your lips.
It's also enough time for Donghyuck to stir awake with the awkward positions of his arms around you.
He wakes up just barely, for a few minutes, before something—rather, someone—move around, quite rushed at that.
Upon further inspection, he finds that it's you, his blankets over your head as you struggle to free yourself and exit his room.
Because of his blanket being ripped off his bed, so is he, tumbling to the ground as you chuck his blanket back at him and leave at an instant.
What the fuck happened last night?
ix.
It's been about 4 hours since you've seen Donghyuck.
Despite that, he's all you can think of. You don't even know what happened last night. You're sure Donghyuck wouldn't take advantage of you, he would never, but you still could have done very crazy things. To add onto that, you still have his hoodie, you're still wearing it, finding the strength to take it off.
Thankfully, your roommate was kind enough to take care of you, have you rest, bring you food and water and proper meds for your headache. So far, you haven't thrown up, which is a major step because you threw up a shit ton last time you got drunk.
You take a deep breath, trying to distract yourself from Donghyuck. Fails miserably, because with every breath you take in, you smell him. His scent. From the hoodie you wear.
It's not like Donghyuck's got it any easier. Unlike you, he doesn't really want to get you out of his mind, he'd much rather find you and tell you what happened and talk it out just like Jeno said.
Did you mean what you said? Do you really like him?
These questions are repeating in his mind, as if on loop, all day long with every activity he does.
And that includes baseball practice. It's clear that he has a scattered mind, his teammates notice it instantly. Their mood maker, sunshine, joker, is doing nothing but standing there with his baseball bat in hand.
He doesn't even flinch when Doyoung throws the ball at him, it flies next to him and into the mitts of Yangyang, who is equally confused as the rest of the team.
Perhaps he had a concussion, that would explain the lightsaber band aid on his jaw.
"Yo," Jeno's hand clasps firmly on Donghyuck's shoulder, but he doesn't move. Instead, he hums mindlessly, still staring at the ground below him.
"Are you okay? Did you hurt yourself this morning? Should we get you to the clinic or something?"
"What? Clinic? Why would I need to go there?"
Jeno shrugs, pushing the worn out baseball in his hand to Donghyuck's, causing him to realize that he's been dozing off the whole time.
"No, I'm fine," The sigh he lets out a moment later begs to differ, and the trouble on his face is proving it. "I think it's Y/n."
"Y/n? Didn't you guys talk it out yesterday? She told you whatever happened, right?"
Donghyuck nods, but he looks uncertain. "Kind of? She was drunk, you know that, and then when I took her to my place she got really weird."
At the new information, Jeno groans, taking the baseball from Donghyuck's hands and chucking it across the field to Mark, who asks for the ball. "I told you to talk it out last night!"
"How could I?! She was drunk! She completely passed out after she confessed—"
"—she confessed?!"
"Yeah, but—"
"—don't fucking tell me you two aren't together yet." Jeno grumbles, fixing the mitt in his hand. Before taking off to the other side of the field, where coach calls for him, he turns to Donghyuck. Very sternly, he reaches out to pull at his ear, staring at him as strictly as he can.
"Go, confess back, or something. It's not exactly my place to say her feelings, but it's mutual. Don't come back until you got a date. I'll cover up for you."
And here Donghyuck thought he was being the best wing man and setting you up with Jeno. He breathes out a small 'thank you,' before turning to leave the field.
He's not sure where he can find you, but he'll search every where for you, for as long as he needs to.
He heads to the library first, reminded of the Chewbacca band aid he put on your finger.
Donghyuck has always been good at guessing games, you found this out when playing optional trivia games. He's been getting better, for the library is exactly where you are.
You came here to try to get rid of the killing headache you have, and to really calm down. It worked, miraculously so, because you find yourself seated on one of the bean bags the librarian installed just 2 days ago, reading a favorite of yours.
Garfield comics. Yes, more to remind you of Lee Donghyuck.
To your utter shock when you put down your thick comic book, there Lee Donghyuck is himself, in his baseball uniform, fresh from practice. Perhaps Garfield is what truly summons him.
At first, he doesn't notice you. He whips back and forth, but finds no sign of you. It's only when he turns to his left, when he finds you.
You look... like a bit of a mess. That's no doubt. Did you brush your hair this morning? Despite the many hours of sleep you had in his dorm, your eyes still are droopy, laced with exhaustion, and your lips are parted in shock. And what affects Donghyuck the most, is his favorite hoodie that you wear.
His favorite person in his favorite hoodie of his favorite artist. Everything he's ever wanted.
You blink, once, twice, before you throw a hand up, shocked, and wave at him.
Now that your best friend is in front of you, you'd have to face him, face whatever dumb decisions you made last night.
Donghyuck throws his own hand up, the corners of his lips instantly widening upwards at the sight of you.
The next thing you know, he's rushing up to you, and sitting in the bean bag next to yours.
"Hey," he breathes out with a pant.
You send him an awkward, almost apologetic smile, "Hi."
Then it's silent. Not one of you are sure what to say, how to say it, when to even start.
You notice the band aid on his jaw, plastered quite messily, sideways and all. It's a lightsaber, matching with your Chewbacca band aid.
The very band aid comes in contact with the other, as you reach over worriedly at the injury. "What happened here?"
"Oh, uh, you kind of made me fall of my bed and scrape my face. It's no biggie, really, I wanted to talk about something else."
Oh. Something else. As in... last night.
For once, you decide to take one for the team, swallowing down your nerves, "So, I'm assuming you're here to tell me of what happened last night."
That is partially correct. He's here to tell you that, and his own feelings. It's been established lightly by Jeno, and your drunk self, that you like him, so what's he got to lose?
"You kissed me."
Albeit very unexpected, you get the context. "Again?!"
"Again." Donghyuck laughs, it bounces around the quiet atmosphere, and sends your heart shaking at the sound of his happiness. "You also told me how you were talking about me in the cafeteria, when I thought you meant Jeno was the one you liked."
The look on your face is absolutely priceless, the shock and dread that creep in your eyes and the gaping of your mouth that grows bigger, god you look really cute. He might just kiss you.
"And how I had so many moles while Jeno had 2, and about how I was the dog person, and how I was the gamer, and... how much you wanted to kiss me."
"God, I never meant to admit it out loud..." You want to dig a hole right there, in the library, and bury yourself there forever, wallow in shame for the rest of eternity. 3 drink Y/n is no good. No good at all.
Admit it? So you actually meant every word you said?
Donghyuck is very obviously enjoying this much more than you are, head on hand as he admires the way you curl there on the spot due to embarrassment.
"Did you mean it?" He suddenly asks.
Yes. There's nothing more truthful than a drunk person, you meant everything you said.
But are you going to admit it that fast? To Lee Donghyuck? The man who gets cocky and smug at every little thing? Never.
"I mean... I guess so—"
It's too quick for you to fully process, but Donghyuck, your crush of who knows how long, your best friend, has leaned over and completely cut you off with a kiss.
His lips are warm, and despite his very rushed actions, they feel so soft against yours. It's bliss to finally have them on yours after wanting to feel them for so long.
He's smiling lightly against your lip, you can feel each crevice and curl of his lips, and you can't help but smile a little as well.
Donghyuck's hands tug at your—his—hoodie, pulling you closer as you knock his baseball hat off to tangle your fingers in his hair.
When the two of you pull away, it's soft, and the light that shines through the window behind Donghyuck makes him look absolutely ethereal. Eyes shining, smile bright, he's absolutely stunning.
There's a jump of your heart when Donghyuck bumps his forehead to yours, the laugh he lets out brushes against your lips, the warmth of his lips still ghosts against your skin, and despite having pulled away, his taste still lingers. You can't help but huff out a chuckle as well, circling your arms tighter around him.
Okay, maybe admitting all those things aren't so bad. You would totally admit it again and go through all the embarrassment just to get that exhilarating feeling of his lips on yours again.
You really don't have to admit it again, for Donghyuck leans in to give you another soft peck on the lips.
"Uhm," a voice to your right shocks you, and the two of you scramble apart with shock when you see a young boy standing there with a book cart in front of him. How did you not notice him sooner?
You recognize him as Jung Sungchan, one of Shotaro's best buddies. He rolls the cart to an aisle right by you, placing a book on the shelf.
"Yeah so Librarian requests that you don't get all that dirt on the carpet, Donghyuck, and not to make out on the bean bags, thank you."
x.
It's Thursday night, movie night with Donghyuck.
This time, you've decided to watch the Star Wars trilogy, because of the band aids your boyfriend owned. Just like when you watched the Garfield movies, you've stopped paying attention to whatever's on the screen yet once again, but this time due to a different reason.
"Ouch—Be careful!"
You roll your eyes at Donghyuck's whimper, bringing his hand closer to you. "Hyuck, I barely even touched it. Now stay still."
A pout is creased on his lips as he watches you carefully wrap a band aid over his cut, (obtained from trying to cut open a bag of chips) his frown deepening when he notices there's no Yoda, or lightsaber on it.
"Hear me out," he starts. At this, you raise your head attentively, an unwanted smile automatically finding its way to your lips at his own grin. "Garfield themed band aids."
You ought to find his idea stupid, very weird, but instead there's a feeling of fondness sitting deep in your stomach, and it blooms with every passing second.
This causes you to lean down and press a soft kiss to his cheek instead, before you turn back to the movie. "You're so weird."
"What about Shrek themed band aids?"
The laughs that leave your lips has Donghyuck swooning, grinning like an idiot, and just from the sounds of your laughter. He can't help but throw the blankets over you two as he pounces at you, attacking your face with many kisses.
Lee Donghyuck may still be really bad at love, but apparently he's been improving. Perhaps he is, because you can sense the improvement every time he mumbles a confession against your skin and kisses you again and again.
synopsis: it’s no lie that haechan only started his college matchmaking business due to his nosy personality. it’s also no lie that he was a little jealous of everyone he had helped out as he had no love life of his own. well, that was until his childhood friend moved back and mysterious love notes started appearing in his matchmaking inbox… addressed to HIM?!
pairing: haechan x fem! reader
genre: social media au, college au, fluff, crack, one sided pining, best friends to lovers
warnings: swearing, mentions of alcohol, jokes about murder and drugs
status: completed!!
started: 1st September 2022
ended: 9th January 2023
update schedule: twice a week (mostly mon & thur)
taglist: closed🤍!!
note: this is a spin-off for “you can’t have me… unless?” however it can be a standalone fic! (i was gonna wait later to post the masterlist but i got impatient and too excited lmao)
⎯ navi for lovesick fools universe
profiles 1/3: mean girls ft. y/n
profiles 2/3: dream squad!!
profiles 3/3: haechan’s alter egos
chapter 1: weirdass bubble tea
chapter 2: lacklustre of a love life
chapter 3: stupid things
chapter 4: no choice😒
chapter 5: maybe he will soon
chapter 6: this is so stupid😭
chapter 7: insults, insults and more insults💀
chapter 8: baby steps
chapter 9: suspiciously familiar🤔
chapter 10: whatever u say buddy
chapter 11: prove u wrong
chapter 12: i wish i could
chapter 13: what a simp’s gotta do😔
chapter 14: no lactaid😩
chapter 15: mark is a hate crime🤬
chapter 16: i don’t care
chapter 17: baby..?
chapter 18: are u… jealous?
chapter 19: if looks could kill😒
chapter 20: chenle vs good advice😮💨
chapter 21: i hate it here😔✋
chapter 22: absolute fool
chapter 23: gorgeous gorgeous girls🥳
chapter 24: stole my heart from the cookie jar
chapter 25: bad omens
chapter 26: the devil’s right hand men
chapter 27: he’s dumb💀
chapter 28: take that back😒
chapter 29: the universe hates me confirmed
chapter 30: im coming for u
chapter 31: genuinely
chapter 32: having a meltdown fr🤡
chapter 33: you and me
chapter 34: where do we stand?
chapter 35: only yours to keep💗 (finale)
Requested by: @fullsunnyhae , thank you for requesting a Haechan imagine hope you enjoy love! :) Also sorry for the LONG wait really tried to make it good!
Synopsis: When the infamous Lee Donghyuck can’t seem to lower his ego he’s punished until his lesson is learned, he really thinks life can’t get any worse especially when he becomes someone’s pet. More specifically, your pet. Bold: Speaking in dog. Bold Italics: Flashback. Italics: emphasis
Warning: mostly Fluff & Humor. Gets a bit angsty! Mention of blood, death, violence and more but not lots of it. TW! Swear word usage, casted of a spell and more. AU imagine! Enemies to lovers. ( A/N: Thank u for 400 followers! <3)
Pairing: Haechan x reader
“Hello ladies”
the infamous smirk was flashed to a group of ladies by the counter in which they sat sipping their coffee. As a barista you’ve learned a thing or two. How to put up with all kinds of customers especially the annoying ones.
And yet you could’ve never prepared yourself in having to put up with Lee Donghyuck’s antics. Frustrated you how it seemed the man never once missed a day without causing a delay in peoples orders. A long line forming, people impatiently tapping their feet, checking the time. The traffic outside was already getting louder the more the morning rises.
“How may I help you?” You raise your voice a bit higher to gain his attention. Stopping his flirting with the girls, he turns to you slowly. Resting himself on the counter he stand up straighter. “Hey haven’t you learned some basic manners? Raising your voice at me- I should get you fired!” He points at you accusingly. Hearing the not so low chuckles from besides you, all three girls making fun of you. Resisting. The urge to roll your eyes you take a deep breath and exhale.
“I’m sorry sir but you are causing a bigger line behind you the longer you take to order. Now may I please know what you’d like? Is it the usual?”
Going to put in his usual iced americano and a scone you hear him speak up.
“Actually! Not today. You know I woke up in the mood of trying something new! Can you tell me the specials please?” He fakes innocence in his tone. Groans come from behind him and you hear the door chiming, already losing customers the more Donghyuck drags on. Losing customers can’t be on your radar especially with a strict manager constantly breathing down your neck.
Telling him the specials quickly you continue to eye the other customers behind him. Angry and frustrated looks were on their faces while Donghyuck still eyed the menu.
“You should really try the season cookie. Christmas is just around the corner wouldn’t want to miss out on the goodies and it comes along with a hot coco.” “Oh I don’t know-“ “But you do know! It’s very chilly out there and who would miss out on some hot coco I mean come on!”
Eyeing you, you restrained yourself from glaring at him. He knew how easily he manages to get under your skin. So much he visits just to continue doing so. “Well it does sound appealing-“ “Good! One seasonal cookie and a hot coco coming up that’ll be $6.50.” Quickly typing it on the screen in front of you, Donghyuck let’s you take his card. “Here’s the receipt, your order should be done in a few minutes, next!”
He would get back to trying to annoy you but when the three girls next to him taps his shoulder to try and regain his attention he simply lets them do just that.
“Oh hello ladies, now where were we?” He smirks again when they giggle fakingly at him.
“Seasonal cookie and hot coco!” After a few minutes he grabs the orders from your hand. “Too bad I couldn’t stay for too long. Would’ve loved to stay and watch your pretty face work endless hours.” He winks at you before walking off. Shooting a devious look to the ladies inside the cafe before leaving.
Rolling your eyes when he was out of sight. 8 in the morning and you already started the day off wrong.
“Egotistical bastard.” You curse underneath your voice. Wiping down the counters that were smudged with coffee stains. The ick in you still stayed because of him. You didn’t know what was up with him. Why he acted that way, not enough attention at home? Is he an only child? Whatever it was it had him thinking too highly of himself. And you didn’t like it one bit.
When the day couldn’t get any worse, pouring rain was happening when trying to catch your bus ride home. Drenched in water you run under the bus stop. Shaking as you try to warm yourself by rubbing your hands down your arms. Not noticing who exactly you sat next to on the seats.
“Aw what happened pretty? Took a shower on you’re way here?” Freezing when you depict the taunting voice to be made out. Ignoring him you continued looking forward. Hearing him sit up, he rests his elbows on his knees. “Why so quiet? Coming down with the flu pretty?” “Stop calling me that.”
“Why?” “Because I don’t like it.” “Why? You don’t see yourself as pretty?” Finally turning your head at him you see the smugness on his expression. Scoffing you shake your head and look forward again. “You know pretty people shouldn’t be getting wet, they need someone with an umbrella….” Hearing an umbrella flap open besides you, a shadow casted upon you. “To save them. If you want you can even call it their Prince Charming coming to rescue them.” He winks at you. Seeing the bus come closer you shake your head.
The people around the bus stop, umbrella in hand got ready to enter the vehicle. “No offense Donghyuck but I don’t need no Prince Charming and especially one who thinks he is. You’re far from it and never ever will reach those standards.” “Ouch.” He responds. The bus parking and opening it’s glass door. One by one the passengers got on. Standing up, he sighs. “Really had wished you would’ve taken my umbrella. Hate it for you to go home catching a cold.” Raising a brow you step on the bus after him when the bus driver puts a hold to you.
“Sorry we’re full, you can catch the next one in 45 minutes?” Shocked, you step out in disbelief. You couldn’t believe it. Through the glass window you see Donghyuck wave at you tauntingly. In his hand he waves his umbrella at you. Blowing you a kiss as the bus drives off.
“Un fucking believable.” Wanting nothing but to just get home you decided in jogging there instead. Yeah it was a forty minute walk but you seriously couldn’t wait forty minutes just for the bus to arrive at that. Gasping when the cold rain hits you again you pick up your pace. Now even more frustrated than ever.
By the passing days. You fought through a cold, the same daredevil now cooing at you. “What’s wrong pretty? Got a cold? Awe poor poor pretty baby.” Ignoring him you turn around and worked on making others drinks. Hoping he’ll simply walk off and flirt with the girls in the cafe like he usually does. “If only you would’ve taken my umbrella…” he gives out a rather loud sigh. Turning back you watch as he picks at his nails and shakes his head. Harshly biting the inside of your cheek you hand him his coffee.
“Iced Americano. Have a nice day sir.” You grit your teeth. Smiling at you he thanks you and stands up. Foolish of you to have thought he would simply walk off. Hearing a whine come from him you cock a brow. “Is anything wrong sir?” “I asked for light ice. This is just one cube of ice too many.” He sets the drink down and pouts. Taking a breath in you bite your bottom lip and nod. “I see let me…remake your drink again.”
“Hello darling.?” An elderly lady speaks. Your attention leaving the annoying brat, putting on a smile you greet the elderly woman. “Hello ma’am, how may I help you?”
“Oh well I just came by to get myself a scone and see if you still had any hot coco left.” She smiles at you. “Yes of course-“ “Actually shouldn’t she also get the seasonal cookie since those two tend to come in a pair?” Donghyuck interrupts you. The elderly eyes the both of you, can detect the tension miles away. A reason why she even entered the cafe in the first place.
“Oh if that’s true then yeah I’d like a seasonal cookie as well.” “Of course ma’am. A scone, seasonal cookie and a hot coco okay.” Watching you work with an amusing look Donghyuck waits for you to finish. Already preparing himself his next misfit to annoy you even more. When getting the order started the elderly woman turns back at him. Furrow his brow at her as he didn’t like her inspecting him.
“May I help you?” He tells her boredly.
“Ahh I’m sorry gentleman. I was just watching how nice you’ve grown up to be. Are you and the cash register together?” Scoffing he fakes a laugh.
“They wish we were. But no, I can never date someone like…them.” He eyes you up judgedly. Hearing him since he wasn’t too far away from you, you grip his order in hand. Wanting nothing more than to dunk the whole drink on him. Maybe then the one to many ice cubes can be ridden.
Nodding, the elderly woman watches your working figure. “Well it’s a shame. Seems like they’d be a good influence to fix that poor wicked ego of yours.” She tells him. Eyes widen he glares at her. “Look lady, the only ego growing here is yours. What just because you’re old you think you can automatically criticize someone?!” Turning around quickly you interrupt Donghyuck’s growing tantrum.
“Ok! Here’s your order ma’am and I’m so sorry for the inconvenience. I just don’t know where these types of customers are coming from I promise we’ll work on that yeah?” Smiling at you dearly she grabs her order. “No worries dear it’s just all part of life. If only there was some sort of miracle that can cleanse the world of ego.” Nodding you turn back to fixing his drink. The elderly woman turns to him one last time. Taking out a kiss chocolate. “We may have had a rough encounter but wishes to you young man.” She smiles at him. Eyeing him one last time as she sets the chocolate by him. Grabbing her order and walking out.
Feeling uncomfortable by her stare. Feeling the chills run down his spine he turns around to no longer see her. Sighing loudly, nails tapping the counter. “Come on pretty I really don’t have all day.” He speaks up. “Here’s your iced americano with light ice. Have a nice day sir.” Wanting to criticize it more he’s put on a hold when he gets a call. Seeing it was his best friend Renjun he decides to just call it a day in the cafe. “See you pretty.” He winks at you, unwrapping the chocolate and tossing it in his mouth. Answering the call he grabs his drink and walks out. Leaving the small rolled up ball of trash on the counter.
From out of the view of the cafe, he throws the iced americano in the trash. Never once was he in the mood for it.
Slamming the door behind you. You huff in exhaustion. Legs ready to give out and plop yourself on the couch. Lately the weather has been wanting rain and currently thunder was heard from outside. The harsh pounds of the rain hitting the window.
You see a few lightning sparks because of the flashing light. Turning the tv on tiredly you watch what was on, not caring if it was interesting or boring you just didn’t want your apartment to be in complete silence. After a while you got up when your stomach wouldn’t stop growling. You waited by the counter as the water boiled. Pack of ramon noodles ready to be made. Yawning as the news come up,
‘Forecast says Seoul should be experiencing high chances of precipitation for the next two weeks. Lots of mist and humidity in the air it’s time to get warm and comfortable, for this storm won’t leave anytime soon.’
Pouring the noodles in the pot, you walk over to your balcony. Glass sliding door the only thing keeping the water from coming in. Another flash of light you see, the wind is heard as it blows by quickly. Thunder louder than yesterday. Glad you managed to get home when it wasn’t as bad.
Turning the channel, you land it on one in which your favorite tv show was playing. Getting the living room situated as you didn’t plan to stand up when setting the noodles down to eat.
A few minutes far from your place, a group of boys were currently versusing each other on the PlayStation. Lots of yells and chants were heard as the competition begins to thicken.
“Donghyuck man help! Jeno and Chenle are absolutely demolishing us!” Jisung calls out to him. Currently on the couch battling a terrible headache he only hums in response. “You okay?” Renjun asks him with worry. “Yeah just have a weak stomach right now. Man this headache is killing me too I think I’m going to lie down for a bit.” Letting him, he walks up the stairs and into his room. A large pang hits him in the pit of his stomach. Crouching as he winced in pain. Taking slow intakes of breathes as he tries to relax.
Walking into the bathroom where he puts cold water on his face. He felt hot, cheeks were pink and forehead above normal temperature. Did he get the flu? Whatever it was, it was kicking his rear end and just wanted it all to go away. Going through cabinets to search for the pain killers but groaning when he can’t find any.
“Hey guys! Where are the-“ gasping when yet another sharp pang hits him, losing balance and falls on the floor. Arm wrapping around his stomach as he feels a few tears run down his stomach. He hasn’t felt this sort of pain since he was 15 and that was because he pulled a muscle on his stomach. But this no this felt even worse. He felt as if his lungs were being squeezed and couldn’t seemed to breathe. Chest tightened and throat went dry. His other arm gripping the carpet in agony. Not a word seemed to leave his mouth, he didn’t know when exactly the pain stopped nor when he passed out. The storm outside kept going and anytime the lightning flashed, his shadow was casted on the wall next to him. When falling completely on the ground in exhaustion from the pain, no movement from him and only the rain drops falling on his window being the only noise in his room. His friends fall clueless downstairs.
With one last lightning flash going off, a shadow appears. Only this time it wasn’t one of a human but of a dog. Just as quickly as it appeared it disappeared when the lightning ray wore out. For the remainder of the night a passed out Hyuck laid on the ground.
The next morning was just as exhausting as the others. Only hoping the week would simply come to an end soon. Even though more people rushed in to order you found it odd when the certain devious daredevil hadn’t shown up yet. Actually liking his absence you were able to finally relax.
The day went on and you found it to be a better day than others. Not the usual annoying voice constantly nagging you from getting anything done, no criticism coming from him or whines because someone hurt his pride. For the first time in a while you managed to put on your genuine smile, making conversation with your coworkers and customers. Happily cleaning the coffee machine that most didn’t like doing. Cleaning up the tables and counters, a true relief for having a day of calmness.
But what was once nice now began to worry you. It was the third day of Donghyuck’s absence. Friday and still no sign of him. Had he finally had enough of teasing you? But you tried not to think much of it. You couldn’t help but listen to the girls who entered the cafe glum to not see him in. “Wonder what happened to him?” One said. “Maybe he found another cafe. We should look around and see.” Rolling your eyes, you felt sorry for them. Not seeing why they were so hung up on searching for the man who only ever saw them as moving tits and ass.
“Yeah we should.” And like that they grab their stuff and go to walk out. “Have a nice day!” You tell them in which they simply ignored you and walked out. Shaking your head you continued cleaning up the place. Only a few hours until you clocked out of work. When arriving to the bus stop after work you look around to see he wasn’t at the bus stop either. No smug looking young man sitting besides you with an umbrella in hand. Getting home you take your shoes off. Raincoat and the other clothing that was attaching itself to you from the rain. Changing into comfortable clothes you turn the tv on. Untying your hair to put it into a bun.
Walking over to the kitchen you hear the voices of the news reporter. “What should I eat?” You tell yourself.
‘21 year old has been reported missing. Been well over three days since his last encounter with anyone, roommates says he was last seen going up to his room and haven’t heard of him since. If anyone has any idea of his presence please dial this number. Lee Donghyuck is his name.’
Slamming the fridge shut, you run over to the living room. Eyes widen you watch as the reporter goes into detail of the same said man you couldn’t stand having around just a few days ago. In shock, you cover your slightly agaped mouth as they give out his information. Picture of him shown, taking a seat. You couldn’t believe what you were seeing.
He couldn’t have gone missing? Donghyuck? He doesn’t seem the type to run away. He couldn’t have been kidnapped no way, he was last seen going to his room? Why would he simply walk away? Many questions run through your head that by the time you snap out, the tv was now showing a television show.
“Wow.” You say in astonishment.
Where has he gone?
Saturday finally came. And while you intended to sleep in the many errands you grew behind in slowly rushed in. Groaning as your body desperately wanted to just simply rest. Dragging yourself out of bed, entering the bathroom and you make a face when seeing your reflection.
Never understanding how one could wake up not looking so…monstrousness. Turning the faucet you begin to brush your teeth tiredly. The shower getting turned on soon after. The beginning of your Saturday and it wouldn’t be you sleeping soundly in a bed.
Out in the cold streets of Seoul, large coat over your hoodie you go through the places you need to finish your errands. From the post office, to appointments needed to have been finished long ago, prescriptions needed to be picked up and groceries needed to be bought. By the end of the day you were walking home absolutely exhausted. The cabs in the streets seemed to all be preoccupied or not tending to anyone. Buses weren’t anywhere near you and you could already feel the rain wanting to kick in again.
Trying to rush to your apartment with the many bags in hand you fail to acknowledge a certain critter following you. Gasping when rain hits your face, now jogging lightly. By the time you arrive to your apartment, the soft droplets were now pouring and now once again you were drenched. Kicking the door open you drop the bags on the ground. Shutting the door you let out a yell of exhaustion. Taking your sweater and coat off. Shoes kicked off to who knows where and you rush to change into warmer clothes. Laying on your bed for a minutes to rest, you furrow your brow when hearing a few noises coming from the kitchen. ‘Could just be the storm messing with you’ closing your eyes, you feel yourself slowly fall asleep.
Until yet another noise is heard. Only this time a loud bang comes from the kitchen. Sitting up quickly, you gulp. Eyeing the bedroom door, opening the closet slowly, you grab the bat you had hiding in there. Turning the knob slowly you take small steps. Hallway dark and the light illuminating the apartment was the one in the kitchen. The noises were getting a bit clearer when approaching the kitchen, bat held up high and with a tight grip. Peeking and seeing no one, you take more steps. Startled when a random figure comes from out the counter. Screeching as you go to hit it, a loud whine comes from what you now see is a rather small dog.
With eyes wide you lower your bat. The brown mixed Maltese dog watches you with the same scared expression you had. Small growls leaving the dog soon after. “Where the hell did you come from?” You whisper, kneeling down. You stretch you hand out, taken aback when the dog tries to bite. “Little rude given you trespassed into my apartment.” You scoff and stand up. Arms at your waist as you eye the dog sitting before you. It’s eyes staring right back at you. Where the hell did you accidentally managed to lock a dog inside with you? Taking a step back when the dog begins to bark. Getting louder and louder as it steps a few steps forward to you.
“Shush!” You try to quiet the dog down. Landlord forbidding anyone in owning any sorts of pets in his apartment. When the dog doesn’t seem to want to quiet down you run a hand through your hair in frustration. “What?! What do you want from me? Food! Is that what you want?!” And while you tried to find ways to keep this dog quiet, from inside the little critter’s head was the 21 year old missing young man.
“Hello?! I’m stuck in a dog’s body!”
He barked in distress. Annoyed that you don’t manage to pick up on what he’s trying to tell you. If he wasn’t so concerned in barking out his frustration then he would’ve realized humans can’t understand dog.
“I need you to help- No I don’t want food! Hear me out! Ugh!”
Wanting to bite your fingers when you pick him up, you drop him just as quickly. Wincing in pain when he manages to get a nip at you. Stopping his antics as he watches you shake your hand from the pain.
“Bad dog!” You tell him. A frown on your face, and while it shouldn’t be giving him of any affect. Donghyuck couldn’t help but whine in guilt.
“Look buddy I don’t know where the hell you came from nor why you followed me if you’re only going to act this way, but this isn’t a joke. I get caught with you here and I’m for the streets just like you.” Watching walk into the kitchen a run your finger through the water.
“So I’ll be considerate enough to send you to the pound.”
“The pound?! Are you insane?!”
Going to pick him up again he makes a run for it around the small apartment. Running around the couch that you try to climb over. Under the table that has you crouching down, into the hallway that causes you to slip slightly for wearing socks. And causing havoc in your room when he managed to paw the door open. “Come here!” You groan as the puppy runs very back under the bed. Planting yourself on the carpet you watch him tiredly. Breathing raggedy as you eye the dog. His small figure self sticking its tongue out as they tried to regain their breath as well.
“No pound!”
…..
The two of you sat on the cold floor in silence. Across from one another as you two just stared at one another. Something about the dog felt off. Eyes looking so life like, kinda creepy really. And you get the sense it’s sharing the same critical thinking as you as to who you are. You were wary of the dog. Tiny but damn right mighty. A slight move from you and it’s eyes turns to stare at whatever limb moved. You sighed and the dog only stood his stance.
You sat up straighter and so did the dog. Furrowing your brow, you tilt your head slightly at him. And as slowly you did, so did they. Quickly tilting your head up, the dog mimicked. Squinting your eyes and leaning your head a bit, the dog replicated your actions. Scoffing, you shake your head. “Creepy.” His heightened senses came in good use for Donghyuck. Growling when he hears your insult and you shut yourself up.
“Alright…” standing up slowly, the Maltese stands as well. “Not going to hurt you little guy…just standing. Getting a cramp here.” Wincing a bit when your leg begins to rush the flow throughout itself. Sighing as the dog stays immobile, you take a few steps to the left. A newspaper on the stool and you pick it up. Unfolding it and laying it on the cold tiled floor. Motioning the newspaper to him, you nod. “Good night.” Retreating yourself back to your room, you close the door and don’t bother ever walking back out until morning.
What a terrible idea.
“A newspaper? They must be joking.” Donghyuck scoffs. Glaring at the floor before him, he huffs in aggravation. Confusion and anger is all he can feel. How is it he got to this point in his life. A dog? At least he should’ve been turned into a Doberman or a Golden Retriever but a Maltese? The world must be one huge joke that he still can’t get the gist of.
Not in the mood to falling asleep just yet, he walks around your small apartment. Judging each and every crevice of the building. Why cream colored walls instead of white? Why three stools if they’re a loner? Why three piece couch, do they need that much room? Hungry, he huffs when trying to find a way up on the counter and into the shelves.
In the bedroom, you were up all night. The urge to get out of bed and check on the Maltese. Especially more when you hear growls, whines and barks from him. Soon following by things falling and stuff dropping on the floor with a bang. You should’ve gotten out of bed and put a stop to it but you didn’t. Too exhausted to yell at a dog, you shut your eyes and forced yourself to sleep.
Donghyuck on the other hand finally managed to get into the jar of cheese puffs after many…many attempts. Stretching his legs after the many falls taken to get the cheese puffs. Burping when he gets half of the jar empty. Walking down the hall and running into the bathroom. He knocks down the trash can, “Oops.” He says it nonchalant and climbs on it. Never once did he think he’d drink out of the bathtub faucet. Obviously not from the toilet, yeah he’s a dog but hasn’t gain the aspects of it. Small licks taken to catch the droplets of the faucet, little legs doing everything in its power to lean him closer and not fall. But luck is never on his side.
A large howl is heard throughout the apartment. Walking out the bathroom was a very damp Donghyuck. Had fallen in the bathtub that was somewhat filled with water. Pooling the floor with water, he shakes himself off. Stains of droplets all over the walls he gets on the couch and brushes himself off. Now understanding why dogs loved it so much. Drying himself faster and it was relaxing he may say also fun. His attention is stolen when he looks over at the shelf next to the tv. Liquor. Oh does he really need some of that liquor.
After knocking other variety of things, he drinks what he managed to leak. It seemed hours into the night before Donghyuck called it a night. Crashing on top of the uncomfortable floor you set the newspaper at and knocked out as soon as he hit the floor.
You were absolutely petrified when leaving the bedroom. Water trailing from the bathroom. Dirty paw prints on the walls. Crumbs of the cheese puffs on the floor. Plates and utensils on the floor broken and scattered. Stools tipped over, paper towels ripped to shreds. Couch stained and wet. The liquor cabinet’s glass door was broken and a few of the glass cups were broken. Liquor bottle tipped over and alcohol pouring onto the floor. And the middle of the entire mess, slept a tired Maltese pup.
Mouth gaped and eyes wide, you step on a pile of crap. Disgusted, you rush over the bathroom to clean yourself up. “Ew!” Turning the knob as the loud rush of water is heard from the living room waking up a hang over Donghyuck. Wincing as the light from the window blinds him. “The heck?” Fur puffed and disheveled, his ears perk at the sound of your groans. A bit dizzy when trying to stand, he lifts his head when seeing you stomp back into the living room. Finger pointing at him, you tell him calmly.
“You’re done.”
“This is absurd! It’s me Donghyuck ! DONGHYUCK. You can’t get rid of me like I’m some chump!”
Trying to get out of your grip, he sees the two of you out on the street. He knows the street. A few blocks away from the coffee shop. He’d assume you’d be going there but when you took a turn that would lead you two to the pound he began to freak. “This is abuse! I want a lawyer for such vile treatment!”
“Stop squirming! It’s best for you to stay there. They’ll care for you.” “Care for me?! IT’S THE POUND YOU FU-“ The pedestrians walking past the two couldn’t help but watch them with curious eyes. Donghyuck couldn’t stop barking and howling. Acting as if you were strangling him to death even though you were only carrying him. When arriving, you could hear the loud barking and meows from the animals barking in the back. Opening the door, you walk in.
“How may I help you?” A man asked from behind the counter. “Oh um, I’m here to drop off a-“ You were quickly cut off when a few guys walked in loudly. Carrying in crates filled with strays that were doing everything they could to get out.
“Get me out of here!” One had whined. Felt weird how Donghyuck could hear them. He always wanted to talk to animals, just never under these certain circumstances. “Run little guy! They’ll kill us all!” Another told him. “I can’t believe I’m back here again.” A white poodle sighs. Donghyuck got chills going up his spine as they are moved to the back of the building. Opening the door as the barks and meows are much more louder and clearer.
“Help!” Is what he hears the most in there. A nightmare it is and he’s not behind bars yet. Donghyuck feels livid. This is it, he’s going to die here for the rest of his life. “I’m sorry about that, you were saying?” “Oh yeah, I’m here to drop of a stray-“ the door leading to the back is slammed open. Both you and Donghyuck watch as a dog is trying to escape. Bolting to the door and scratches it as a man goes to use the catch pole on the poor dog. Horrified by how terrified the dog looked, especially how rough the man was being.
“Stop you’re hurting him!” You try to intervene. “Please stay out of this. We know how to deal with wild dogs.” “He’s not wild! Just scared look how you’re hurting him!” Shoving the catch pole away from him, the dog quickly backs up into a corner. Hyuck sees how hard the black Labrador shakes in fear. The man looks over at the receptionist, reluctantly leaving when he’s told to retreat himself.
“Excuse me, that dog is to be put down today. He managed to escape and now he needs to go back. How may I help you? Were you trying to put that Maltese up?” Watching in worry at the dogs frightened state, you look over at the little dog in your arms. You could see the fear in his eyes, you were horrified by how terribly the animals here are treated. You have to admit you were never educated in what exactly the pound was. Just always assumed the animals there would be somewhat treated at least with food and a bed.
“Hello?” Shaking your head, you turn to him. “Actually no. I Uh, came here because…” “Because?…” sighing, you take another look at Donghyuck. Tilting his head, he wonders what your next decision is. And he just hopes it isn’t you giving him up to the pound. “I’m here to pick up my dog.” You nod. Turning around, and you point at the Black Lab still sitting in the corner. “Him.”
————-
“Could not believe I went to the pound to give a dog up only to come back with an extra one!” Trailing behind you, Donghyuck’s tail wags contently. Turning over at the Labrador walking beside him, head down and hadn’t uttered a word since they left that horrid place.
“Now here I am making my way over to Petsmart and hope my landlord doesn’t kick me out for not just having one dog, not one but two!” A smirk forms on Donghyuck, he chuckles. The three of them making their way inside the store. Growing bored after two minutes of you struggling to pick the right choices for the dogs.
Picking each bottle up in confusion. “Why are there so many brands for one type of food?” You groan in frustration. Trying to read each label carefully but none of the words are processing through your head. Running a hand through your hair, you try to tug away your jeans from Donghyuck’s teeth. “Quit it.” You tell him. But this only had Hyuck continue to do it.
When trying to walk away, you groan when having to drag the small Maltese pup across the floor. “Damn it boy you really are a stubborn brat!” You huff.
“Hello, are you in need of assistance?” A young employee asked you. He seemed to look around your age, the tag on his shirt reading Mark. Nodding quickly, you seem to be ready to break down already. Having such a long morning, with a quick please. Mark smiles at you and motions for you to follow. “Don’t worry I got you.”
Donghyuck couldn’t stop staring at Mark. He’s never seen him around, but it doesn’t take a genius to know when someone’s flirting. Sit and staring at him intently, making jokes to you about him. “Feels like he’s staring into my soul.” Laughing, you nod. “Yeah he kinda just does that I don’t know. Just got him yesterday.” “Oh yeah?” “Yeah- well actually he got me yesterday. Kinda showed up in my apartment out of no where and I tried to give him up but now here I am buying dog products and with an extra.”
Looking over at the Lab, you feel bad seeing how sad he looked. Head was still down and now the dog was lying on the floor. Looking away from them. “Well here are the basic needs for them. I see they don’t have any tags or collars would you consider getting them today?” “Yes please.” Taking you over to the tag machine, Mark shows you all the designs for pet’s. And while Mark continued to joke with you, Hyuck went and laid down besides the Lab.
“So…what’s your name?” But silence. The dog didn’t feel like talking, he kinda wondered if he could even hear him. “I’m Donghyuck.” He tilted his head to get a better look at him to see whether he was awake or not. He was convinced he was going to get no response from him until a small raspy voice spoke up.
“John.”
“So what’s their names?” “Oh uh…I haven’t thought about that yet.” Turning to look at the dogs, you think as to what their names would be. Pointing at the Lab, you look over at Mark. “He looks like a Johnny.”
“Hey! Not too far from your name, what a coincidence huh?” Donghyuck tells him with a airy laugh. His mood is blown though when John only sighs sadly. “And the little one, Haechan.” “Haechan?! You must be joking.” Hyuck scoffs. Looking up at the two humans as they type the names in. “They’re not joking…” After a few minutes, Haechan was now his legal dog name. Brown and white dog bone prints on his collar and the bone shaped tag brightly shining his name. Your name and number on the back.
Johnny got his soon after. Gently putting his collar on, assuring him you weren’t going to hurt him. Petting his head lightly afterwards. “Guess I’ll go check these out.” “I’ll check you out.” As Hyuck waited impatiently for you and Mark to stop flirting, he can’t help but glare at the phone Mark takes out. Phone number of course. “I’ll text you then.” Mark waves you goodbye. “Okay, bye Mark!”
Looking down at the two, “Ready?” “Been ready.” Hyuck scoffs and begins to walk. The long way home was Hyuck leading ahead of the two. Johnny walked slow but never too slow he’d stay behind. Making sure to stay beside you to not cause any trouble. Dropping the bags filled with items on the floor as you were able to sneak the dogs in without anyone seeing. “Go, go quickly.” You ushered them in.
Hyuck struggled a bit to climb the couch but after a few attempts he did. Johnny though stayed at the furthest corner away from the rest. Grabbing the bag filled with food, you take the tape off of the dog bowls. “You guys must be hungry. Well more Johnny than you Haechan. You managed to eat all the cheese puffs I can’t imagine how you can possibly be hungry.” Huffing at you, Hyuck walks over to you.
“Yeah and they tasted like garbage.” Setting the food before him, he feels as if he would gag. “No fucking way.” Moving his head to face away the food. “What? Eat Haechan, I’m sure you can eat anything at this point. And don’t think I didn’t see that half empty liquor bottle, no way it all evaporated from the floor overnight.” While Haechan was busy feeling disgusted over the dog food, you called Johnny over to eat. Standing a few inches away from him, he ate.
“Should be grateful they didn’t leave us back in the pound little one.” Johnny tells him quietly and begins to eat. Looking at him scarf it down, he looks down at him. “…I’m not little. Just miniature size.”
“My god why are we watching this?” Hyuck groans. Growing annoyed by the umpteenth episode of a rom com show. Stretching himself until his hind nails were pressing hard into your skin, you watch him with bored eyes. “Seriously?” “What?” Looking between the two dogs, you see like you, they are a bit lazy. Were you supposed to let them be this way always? Shouldn’t they go for walks? That’s right! Walks. “Alright you two, let’s go for a walk.”
Both heads perk upon hearing the word. “E-Excuse me, you said walk?”
The day was getting a bit chillier. Having to wrap yourself in your jacket, leashes in hand as the two sniffed the place. Well Johnny did, he seemed more happier knowing he wasn’t going anywhere he might feel threatened. So far he was still a bit hesitant in letting anyone in but with the wind blowing meant all the extravagant smells hitting his nostrils.
“You seem to really enjoy walks.” Haechan tells him. “It’s all I did when I was on the streets. You get used to it but I kinda forgot, having been locked up for so long. Really missed smelling all the scents in the world without a care of time.” Hyuck nods. Watching him lift his nose in the air, he decides to follow pursuit. Johnny was right. You could smell all the scents in the world and it felt great. Sniffing the bushes, pavement, the car tiles parked by the side walk. Pieces of candy dropped on the floor, everything. His ear perk up when hearing a group of voices. Ending at a corner where you wanted to cross, Hyuck looks to his left and sees his friends.
“Please, have you seen him?” Jaemin asks to an elderly couple. Sadness in his eyes when he receives yet another no. Renjun’s hair not combed like it usually is. Eyes puffy and tired. Jeno has wrinkled clothes he hasn’t had a chance to iron. Not when he needs to be finding his friend.
“Boys? Boys!” Donghyuck made a run for it but he stops shortly when his leash is tugging him back. “Haechan? Come on let’s get going.” “No! Those are my friends!” Johnny turns to see what he’s referring to. Past owners?
“Haechan-“ Losing grip on the leash, you groan when he makes a run for it. “Haechan! Come back here!” Running after him with Johnny, you see him rushing over to the group of boys. Great. “Excuse me sir, have you seen- what the-“ Looking down, Jeno pushes his glasses back to see the small Maltese dog padding his leg. “Jeno! It’s me Donghyuck!” Feeling slightly out of breath, you begin to apologize. “I’m so sorry, it’s my dog. He’s just a bit, indisciplined.” You say in between breaths. Picking up the leash, Jeno smiles at you warmly. “No worries, cute dog.”
“Damn it Jeno! Stop flirting and look at me!”
Looking down to seeing the dog whine, Jeno leans down and pats his head. Reading the tag, “Haechan. Well aren’t you adorable.” “Missing person?” You ask him. Looking at the pile of papers, your heart stops when seeing it to be Donghyuck’s face. “Yeah…” “Donghyuck.” “You know him?” Jeno stands to face you. Hyuck stops his scratching on Jeno and stares at you.
“He was a regular at the coffee shop I work at, we didn’t have the best interactions. I’m sorry about your friend though.” Nodding, Jeno tries to hold it together. “I’m Y/n. Y/n y/l/n.” “Lee Jeno.” Jeno shakes your hand, bit cold which could mean he’s been out on the streets for quite a while. “Hey Jeno, it’s getting late we better be heading back.” “Jaemin!” Barking at him, Jaemin looks down and furrows his brow. “This your dog?” Nodding, he chuckles. “Cute.” “Oh for heavens sake.” Hyuck grumbles. Hyuck felt disheartened that his friends couldn’t recognize him, worse is how in bad state they were in because of his disappearance. If they looked bad he could only imagine how his family was.
“Well I better get goin-“ “Please take this flyer, you know in case you see him.” “Of course…Hope you find him.” “Us too.” The walk back home, Hyuck didn’t try smelling anything. No tail wagging or talking to Johnny for that matter. Your jeans weren’t appetizing to chew on at the moment. The more the silence went the more Johnny grew curious. When the night came and you decided to go to bed early for work tomorrow, Johnny watched Hyuck silently look out the window of the glass door. Bed right next to him and the large full moon in sight. “You alright little one?” Johnny asked him.
“Mm. I’m okay John.” Still looking out the glass, Johnny recalls back to the missing person flyer. “Are you…human too?” Lifting his head up, Hyuck stares at him with wide eyes. “You’re human?!” Sighing, Johnny rests his head. “Been in this dog’s body for 6 months now.” “6 months…oh god. Does that mean I’ll be in this body for that long? Maybe for the rest of my life.” “What did you do?” “What do you mean? I went home, felt sick and before I knew it. I passed out only to wake up as a dog.”
“I got cursed in this body for being distant.” “Distant?…you didn’t kill anyone and run away right?” Shaking his head, Johnny snorts. “Of course not. I just, I wasn’t there when others needed me. Now I’m destined to live my life without the company of anyone.” “Who cursed you?” “Don’t know. Just know it’s some old woman. She gave me this piece of chocolate and when she found me, she told me what my life would be like for now on.”
“Old woman?…” Hyuck gasps when he remembers the elderly woman he argued with in the coffee shop that day. He remembered eating the chocolate and by the time he got home, it’s when the stomach ache happened. “That witch!” “Have any idea why you’re cursed?” “No idea! I was just living life and now here I am? Can not believe I let an old woman ruin my life. Great!” Moving his head to face away from him, Johnny whispers. “Think I might have an idea what your curse was.” “What?” “Nothing.”
______
“Johnny we have to find that old woman!” “Please Haechan it’s seven in the morning.” Johnny grumbles. Small ray of sunlight warming his black fur, eyes squinting when Haechan pulls back the Draper entirely.
“It’s the only way to bring me back to my human self! Besides you can finally be human too.” “I’ve tried man, she won’t listen.” “Then we make her listen!” “Haechan you’re making a lot of noise, lower your voice-“ “Come on Johnny! Please!”
“Haechan-“ “Please!”
With a groan, you cover your ears with your pillow. The combination of the annoying alarm going off and Haechan’s barking wasn’t making your morning any better. It seemed like Haechan’s barks only got louder and it irritated you more.
With a loud slam on the alarm clock, you sit up. “HAECHAN QUIET”
And he stopped. Johnny quirked his nonexistent eyebrow. “Told ya.” Donghyuck huffs and lays back on his bed. Much smaller in size compared to Johnny’s. The door to your bedroom opens and your loud stomps are heard. Hair a mess and angry blood shot eyes glaring at the small Maltese pup. “How many times do I have to tell you no barking? Anyone finds out you two are living here, and all of us will be without a home!” Walking back to take yourself a shower, Johnny shakes his head and gets up. He makes his way over to his bowl. As he munched on his kibble, Haechan spurred nonsense under his voice.
“Can’t believe I let them boss me around, who do they think they are?” He scoffs. “Our owner?” “Don’t say that Johnny, we are NOT dogs. Just unfortunate people stuck in them.” Sparing a glance over at him, Johnny sees Haechan laying on the floor near him. Not bothering to eat his food or touch his water. Sighing, Johnny walks over to him. “So where do you want to search?” Head perks up, his tail wags in content. “We’ll wait for them to leave, we’ll leave then and try to find locations she might be at.” Nodding, they sat on the couch even when they weren’t allowed on. Seeing you stressfully getting your things together, you give them more food and clean water on the bowl. Grabbing your keys, you bid them goodbye. “No barking.” You want them, a finger pointed at them and a certain look thrown at Haechan.
When the door finally closed, the two waited until they were sure you were far enough. “Okay let’s go!” The way out was a bit more difficult then they thought would be. Everywhere had people walking by, security on guard and cameras on. Any wrong step and they could be caught. “Where Johnny?” Looking at anything that can help them go down the flight of stairs, his eyes focus on a cart of toiletries. Waiting until the janitor wasn’t looking and they bolted. Getting under the covers and on the cart, they were rolled away. Seeing the Janitor entering the elevator. When on the first floor, they wait until the janitor takes them close to their room, close by the exit. And when there, they got off. Quickly running out before anyone saw.
“Okay where did you last speak to her?” Donghyuck asked Johnny. “At the park. I passed out there, it’s where she found me.” Nodding, they headed there. To say the park wasn’t packed would be a lie. Obviously it wasn’t vacant. Too many screaming children and parents not supervising. Food being dropped left and right and other pets on the loose without a leash. “Do you see her?” Donghyuck squints his eyes to scan each and every person and hope the old lady with be one of them. Shaking his head, they decide to leave. “Where did you see the old woman?” Johnny asked him. “Coffee shop, only place I have had my encounter with.” Heading there, they watch as you try to quickly get orders done. A long line forming outside, a bell rung for yet another customer entering the place.
“Wow it’s packed.” Johnny looks down the block where the people waited in line. Must really be great coffee to wait so long. “Yeah it’s always packed.” “You’ve been here before?” Shrugging, Hyuck lays down under the small table right outside the shop. Large window glass giving him the view of the customers and you. “Came here almost everyday.” “So you and Y/n, you two actually talked? Face to face?” “I wouldn’t say talk but yeah. Wonder what they think about my disappearance.” Johnny watches his new profound friend watch you through the glass. His attention on you blocks out the usual girls that would always wait for him there.
Inside, you wiped sweat off of your forehead. Yet again the place was understaffed and now you were stuck taking orders and making drinks. One of Donghyuck’s ‘fans’ was popping their gum, rolling her eyes as she looked at her friend who looked bored. “Can’t believe I ordered a drink thinking Donghyuck would show up.” “Well he is you know ‘missing’.” Her friend tells her. Rolling her eyes, she shakes her head. “Bet he found some chick off the street and ran off with her. Can’t believe I gave him my number.” She scoffs. Her friend shrugs her shoulders, “Well good thing he never called you right?” A gasp comes from her, upon hearing such words from her friend. Holding in a snicker, you call out a customer’s name to signal their finished order.
Today’s weather was a bit warmer than most, unlike yesterday. And while the two were getting used to seeing sets of legs walking by, they see a certain one stop in front of them. Peaking their head from under, they look up and surely there stood the old woman. “YOU!” Haechan barks. “Hello Mr. Lee.” She tells him with a smile. “You did this to me! You had no right!” “Now, now. Let’s not get so feisty…Johnny. I see you’re not so lonely anymore.”
“Hey! Don’t speak to him, this is our business!” “How’s the life of a dog treating you Donghyuck?” “Terrible!-“ Another bark from the small dog under the table do the customers hear. Each giving weird looks to the interaction between the two strays - not so looking stray dogs and the elderly woman.
“Is she speaking to the dog?” One whispers to a friend of theirs. But in the end, they try to ignore it as best as possible. Excusing it by saying it’s what people do when coming of old age.
“Why am I a dog!” “You young adults fail to see the beauty of the world, always cutting it down to something negative. Johnny, you failed to see how big you can grow with the love and support of others. The beauty of companionship and you Donghyuck, Are too egotistical to see that the world doesn’t revolve around you. If I didn’t do anything who knows what consequences would happen to others, it was of my best interest to make that if such consequences would happen it would only pertain to you.” “What do you mean! Speak clearly woman.”
“If you fail to show a change in yourself in a year, you’ll stay a dog forever. That also includes you Johnny. Six months can fly by quite quickly.”
Going to walk away, Hyuck went to follow. “Come back here!” But no matter how fast on her tail he was, she was much faster for an older woman. Losing her in the crowd, he stops in the middle. “Come on little one, it’s not worth it.” Johnny walks up behind him. Feeling worried of only having a year left, Hyuck doesn’t give his friend trouble. Walking back to the chair, they decide to wait under it until your shift ended. And when the night fell, the two still laid there with solemn faces. Haven’t ate an ounce of anything. With a exasperated sigh, you bid your goodbyes and leave the coffee shop. Busy Monday was finally checked off and as you looked either side of you. You catch sight of the two under the table.
“Johnny? Haechan?” Head slightly perking up, you walk over and kneel. “What on earth are you two doing here?” You say, a slight smile on your tired face at the thought that they followed you to work. But for how long were they here? “Have you two eaten anything?” You gasp when you noticed they could’ve gone the whole day not eating. Looking behind you, across the street was a Chinese buffet. “Want Chinese?” And the once gloomy moods overtaking both boy’s bodies were replaced.
You three sat outside eating the food with satisfaction. The two sharing a tray of teriyaki chicken, smiling down at them as they peacefully shared with no conflict. Setting down a cup of water for them, they drink it this time. Downing it in seconds you chuckle, “You two must’ve been in the heat for quite some time. Can’t believe you guys actually waited for me.” Pouring them some more, Hyuck let’s Johnny eat the rest of the food. Walking over to you, he rests his front paws on your leg. Lifting him onto your lap, he watches you finish your food. He just stared. Why? Who knows, but he found it peaceful in doing so. He was finally able to notice the dark circles under eyes. Just how drowsy you looked and the tension building in your shoulders, dying for a massage. He thought back to the old woman’s words,
‘If I didn’t do anything who knows what consequences would happen to others, it was of my best interest to make, that if such consequences would happen it would only pertain to you’
Was she referring to you? Has he been making your stress worse by constantly making your job a lot harder? Smiling at him softly, you rub his head while you finish the last bit of your food. Putting him down, you go to throw the trays away. You would take the bus but the strict no pets policy prevent that from happening. But you at least felt calm knowing you had company the walk home. Shushing them when arriving to the apartment complex, sneaking them in you wondered how they even managed to leave on the first place.
That you came to find out when you saw your door slightly agaped. Walking in and the counter nearest to the door had the stuff on it knocked down. Trying to get to the doorknob in order to open it. The flour fallen on the counter and small doggy paws on it. Looking down at the delinquent Haechan sits with his tail wagging, head tilted as he gives you puppy eyes. “Oops?” Sighing, you go to close the door when you notice a note on the door. An Eviction Notice. You heart freezes in its spot as you read the red printed paper. The two watch you silently. “What’s going on?” Hyuck asks confusedly. Johnny didn’t say anything but by the look of distraught on your face and the bold black letters saying Eviction Notice he knew they wouldn’t be staying here much longer.
Closing the door behind you, you slid down and cover your face in your arms. Crumbling the paper in hand as you feel the frustration get the best of you. Hyuck hears a few sniffles come from you, he felt glued in his spot and contemplated what he should do. Troubled by not knowing how to comfort people. Johnny had already been by your side, and he could only watch. When you had gone up and left the scrunch up ball on the floor, he watched you enter your room. Looking at the paper he takes the next few minutes trying to undo it.
“What are you doing Haechan?” “Trying to read this note-“ a few teeth indents in the paper but he managed to flatten the paper. He feels terrible when he reads the word ‘eviction’ and ‘dogs’ on it. The excessive barking and violation of following apartment complex policy, you’d have approximately a week to move out. “What have I done?” For the remainder of the night, Hyuck hadn’t left his spot near the hallway. Facing your room, your bedroom door was open but no light emitted in there. Utter silence. Your slight sniffs had already muted after sometime. He waited for some sort of sound but nothing. The guilt was eating him from inside out, he couldn’t believe just how much he was making things difficult for you when you’ve been nothing but nice. And now, you were suffering because of him. Exactly how the old woman has told him. Getting up after a while, he walked over to your room. Using your chair to get on, he laid besides you. Closing his eyes to sleep, he jolts a bit when you wrap the blanket over him. It felt nice. He liked it, even though he’d never admit it out loud. And that’s how the night went, he finally got a good nights sleep.
For the next few days only brought you more stress and worry. Looking through apartments willing to take you and the dogs in but to no avail. Johnny’s noticed just how much closer Hyuck attached himself to you. Anytime you began to run your temples he was by your side in an instant. When you began to fidget he let you use his fur to run your hands through. Someone to hug, he’d let you coddle him. When fallen asleep in a pile of paper work, Johnny gave the Maltese a look. “What?” “You like them.” Scoffing, Hyuck shakes himself off before getting off the bed. “I do not.” The Labrador follows suit and snorts. “You so do, you became this lap dog for them. Never in your life would you ever do that.” “Well how would you know?” “Because you never acted that way. What happened to the whole ‘Who do they think they are?’ “I don’t know what you want from me Johnny.”
Walking over to his bowl, he drinks his water. Phone rings and you wake up alarmed. The piles of papers flying in the air as you try to find the phone with fatigue. Yawning, you answer without looking at the caller. “Hello?” Not paying much mind to who could have called, Johnny and Hyuck stay in the kitchen. “Oh! Mark hi!” The licking stops, drops of water splatters on the ground as Hyuck halts in the mention of Mark. “Oh no yeah, I’m not busy…Today?…sure yeah…7 sounds good…okay bye.” Rushing out of the kitchen, Hyuck watches you get up and walk over to your room. “Yo where are you going creep! Trying to spy on her changing?” Johnny teases him. Huffing, Hyuck glares at him. Following you, he climbs on your bed that soon turned to be his as well.
Watching you pick out an outfit had him feeling sour. “What do you think?” You show Haechan one of the few outfits you owned. A special one you had put away. He didn’t say much but then again what did you expect. Going to shower, Johnny walks in to seeing him huffing for the umpteenth time. “Tell me you don’t feel anything for them again?” Rolling his eyes, he faces away from him. It doesn’t last long though for as soon as Johnny lays on the bed he stands up aggravated. “They’re going on a date! A date Johnny! We have to stop it or follow! Yes follow!” “Why?” “Don’t ask why, and as my friend you should just comply.” “Comply? I’m older than you.” Sighing, Johnny finds it amusing seeing the littler dog pace around the bed. When an hour almost goes by, you had finally got out the bathroom.
Hyuck’s pacing stops when he sees you. Taking a seat at the edge of the bed, he watches you finish getting ready. Humming a soft tune as you fix your head once again, you find it adorable seeing him watching intently with the cutest eyes and dilated pupils. “Do I look nice?” Tail immediately wags, forcing himself to eat up all the compliments he wanted to bark at you. A chuckle and you look at your phone, Mark was on his way. As the time ticked you began to pace. “What if it goes wrong? Terrible? What if I’m not significant other material?” A small snort from Johnny that you picked up and you playfully glare at him. “Not funny Johnny.” You pout and take a seat.
Picking up Haechan as soon as he was in arms reach, and you coddled him. Head nuzzling in your chest as your scent hits him, eye locking with Johnny as he gives him a look. Ignoring him, he looks up at you. “I never been on a date before.” You sigh. Pecking Haechan on the head, you hear the door bell ring. Hyuck’s barking took you off guard. Running to the door in which you and Johnny follow suit. Opening the door, there stood a nervous looking Mark. “Hi Mark.” You smile at him nervously. “Hi y/n.” Eye contact is broken when a bark is heard. Looking down, Mark squat down to Haechan’s level. “Oh hi little guy.” Going to let him but Haechan decides to nip him. “Haechan!” You scold him. Lowering his head, Johnny walks over to his friend and picks him off the group with his snout.
“Yeah definitely don’t have a crush on them.” “Shut up.”
“I’m so sorry, usually he’s playful but never aggressive.” “It’s okay, maybe just doesn’t like strangers.” “Still, might need to hire a trainer or something.” You nervously chuckle, walking him over to the sink. Letting water pour on his finger, the proximity a lot closer now. “Thank you.” He tells you softly. Nodding, you open the drawer and give him a bandaid you have in the kitchen just in case. “Shall we get going?” Nodding, you grab your stuff. Taking one last look at the boys, and you point at them. Giving them a look of sternness one of a mother would give to their child to not do anything stupid. Once the door closed, the two who sat frozenly as the two humans left was disrupted.
Jumping off the couch, Haechan’s little claws are heard on the wooden floor. “Come on we have to follow them!” If there’s one thing Johnny has learned from the younger boy is how persistent he is. No matter how much he just wanted to relax, he got off the couch and followed him out of the apartment room. They ended up by an Italian restaurant, where you and Mark were currently having their first date. Across the street, these two furry friends watched them converse. A scoff from Hyuck as he sees you laugh at something your date had said. “Can’t believe he took them here. It’s not even their favorite place.”
“Oh yeah? So what is it?” “They love the Korean BBQ restaurant two blocks from here.” “And how do you know that?” “Because they told me.” “I don’t remember them saying that.” Shaking his head, Haechan lays down on the concrete. “Not now. Back when we were in High School. We went there a few times.” “You and Y/n are friends?”
A scowl on his furry face when he sees Mark lean over. Rubbing off the bit of sauce on your face, a small blush on your cheeks at the action. “We were.” “What happened?” Donghyuck didn’t answer. His mind came up blank upon that question but soon the memories rolled in. Not wanting to think about it, he did what he’s always done. Ignore it. “I don’t know.”
Walking down the side walk of the park, you and Mark came across a soft silence. It didn’t feel awkward and for that you felt grateful. Sun had set and now the street lights were on. You two have seemed to run out of words to say, soft smiles thrown at each other when meeting one’s eyes. It isn’t until you run into a light pole with Donghyuck’s missing flyer hanged on it does the silence end. “I’ve seen his flyer everywhere. Poor guy hope he’s doing okay.” Mark says. Nodding, you grab the flyer. You never had the actual opportunity to look at it, always preferred to remember his face by your memories and not one of a missing person flyer. “Did you know him?” He must’ve noticed your small frown the more you looked at his picture. With a nod, you turn to him.
“Knew him since high school.”
“Come on Johnny! Can’t believe I stopped to let you take a leak!” Haechan’s little legs strived hard to get close to you. Stopping by a tree, he sees you holding a flyer. “We had a fall out sometime after we graduated. But I still saw him regularly, just not in the best encounters.” He heard you. You must’ve been speaking about him. Posting the flyer back up the pole, he gulps when he sees his picture. “Who knows if I’ll ever see him again.” By the time the date was close to over, the two ran fast home. Getting honked at for crossing the streets, avoiding little hands from children who tried to pet them or the door man who tried blocking their way inside. When you arrived they sat a few feet away from the door waiting for your arrival. “Hi boys.” You smile at them warmly. Dropping your things on the empty table, and leaned to pet their heads.
“Really needed this date today. Probably the last times I’ll be happy.” You sigh. Looking around, the small apartment was now filled inside of boxes. No decor as now there were plain cream walls. When the night came and you said your goodnight’s, Hyuck couldn’t sleep. The guilt eating him, he must do something to help you out. He can’t let you sleep on the streets because of him. And as the apartment slept, he stayed up thinking of ways to help you. By the time the sun began to come out, he thought of the perfect idea.
He waited for you to leave. When you did, he scavenged through the piles of paper. “What are you looking for?” “The eviction notice. Help me find it Johnny.” It took a while but when found, he told Johnny to stay. “I’ll be back promise.” “Where are you going now?” “To fix the mess I caused.” Getting to the end of the block, the route to your work was to the left. One he’s grown used to taking for years now, but in this case he didn’t. Instead he took a right turn. Where his home was located at. He feels a sense of nostalgia when his home comes in view. He didn’t hear much chatter inside, then again everyone doesn’t sleep until 3 in the morning so makes sense they would still be asleep. Walking up to the porch he begins to scratch at the door.
It’s currently eight in the morning, Jaemin must be up. And he continues to scratch. He whines and barks in hopes someone will open the door. He gets impatient when nothing happens. Looking up he sees the doorbell, his climbing skills had gotten better for all the many attempts of sneaking out of the apartment room. Jumping on Renjun’s pot plant, he rings the bell. Pressing it many times until someone came to the door. And like he expected, Jaemin opened it. Having bed hair, eyes droopy, sweats and an oversized shirt. He squints his eyes as the brightness outside blinded him. Looking down, he sees the Maltese dog. Furrowing his brow, he squats. “Hey I’ve seen you before…” Absolutely confused as to why a dog appeared at his front porch, he notices the crinkled sheet of paper in his mouth. Grabbing it, he’s opened it to seeing the bold letters saying Eviction Notice. Reading it, at the end has your name. “Y/n y/l/n? Hey I remember you now.” Picking him up, Jaemin runs his head.
“Are you lost? Or are you trying to find a new home?” Hyuck didn’t seem to care of such offer. Maybe a month ago when he was desperately trying to leave but now, you were his concern. Taking him inside, he lets him roam around. Hyuck noticed nothing has changed only the atmosphere. Everything seemed so gloomy. While Jaemin kept reading at the paper, Hyuck used this opportunity to walk up the stairs. His room the furthest away came to view and he made his over there. Door slightly opened, he walked in. He missed his room, everything went untouched. “Y/n could stay here.” That was his plan.
“You’re crazy Jaemin.” Jeno told him. “Yeah we don’t even know them” Renjun buts in. “But they know Hyuck.” “From work. They weren’t even friends.” Currently in Chenle’s lap, Hyuck slightly growls. He didn’t like the false statement given by Jeno. Then again they didn’t even know who you were and the friendship you two once had. “They can help us find him.” “How?”
“They live here, while in return help us find Donghyuck.” “So where do you propose they stay?” “…In his room.” “You’ve gone mad.” The group of boys couldn’t seem to come to an agreement which Hyuck notices just how far fetched his idea was. Maybe he didn’t think it all through.
“And if he returns? Do we kick them out or what?” “We can make some sort of agreement. They save enough for a new place while we find him.” The room went quiet and it only made Donghyuck nervous. What if they said no? For sure you’d end up on the street. Eyes looked at one another, no words said yet in the end it seemed like they all came up with the same answer. “Okay.”
The day went normal until it went bizarre. Not many customers came in which was unusual. Then the elderly woman entered, saying how your days were going without the constant nagging of Donghyuck. “You know…I kinda miss him. Yeah he has his annoying moments but, I really do miss him.” “Give him time, he’ll find his way home.” It wasn’t much with what she said that was odd just the mood she set. Then Jeno and Jaemin arrived. At first they ordered and it wasn’t until they were going to leave that they dropped the bomb shell on you.
“Would you like to live with us?” Eyes widen you stare at them as if one had lost a head. “Uh…come again?” It seemed forever to really register what they had to say but what was the cherry on top, is you agreeing to move in. Tomorrow would be the last day of your stay and by some miracle (or pup), you got yourself a new home for the time being. They helped you move out, and while one by one Donghyuck’s friends carried out boxes Johnny looked at Haechan. “Was this your plan?” Nodding, he looks back at his friends conversing with you. “My room is empty. Might as well put it to good use.” The move in was somewhat awkward. You didn’t really know them but was glad they seemed to have been welcoming. Entering Hyuck’s room you felt weird being in there. Wrong. Looking around, you see the pictures of him and his friends. A few with his family and a smile on your face appears. Sitting on the edge of his bed, you look around his room. He a neat boy, like how you remembered him being.
Getting on the bed, Johnny makes himself at home. Hyuck walks over to you, letting you set him on your lap. “I don’t think I should be here Haechan.” You felt skeptical of the whole ordeal, Hyuck was already getting ready to find a way to make you stay. While he looked back at Johnny for help, you sat him down. Watching you get closer to his gaming desk, he wonders what you’re looking at. Then he remembers what was sitting on top of it. “Is this me?” Picking up the frame, it was of you and Donghyuck in the eleventh grade. He had given you a piggy back ride, a grin on your face and on Donghyuck’s face too. It’s been years since the eleventh grade and yet the memories felt fresh in mind. Walking back to the bed, you lay down staring at it. The two immediately by your side. For the first time since the news, you managed to cry a year for Donghyuck’s disappearance.
Your ‘hatred’ for him had washed away and you now grieved for his absence. Licking your face, Haechan tried to wipe away your tears. For a while it’s all you could do, cry. And when you cried yourself to sleep, Hyuck was too sadden to even move. Now Johnny was left to console the both of you. No matter how confusing the situation between the two were, he never pushed to figure it out. He just listened when someone needed his ears.
“I liked them.” Donghyuck’s soft voice says. “But I liked popularity more.” Turning his head slightly to watch you sleep, he feels his heart squeeze once more. Tears stains on your cheeks. “I always wanted them to feel the same, but when they finally did I pushed them away. Told them, they weren’t good enough.” Johnny didn’t know how to respond, he didn’t judge the boy. He didn’t criticize him, or shame him. Instead he rested his large head on top of his as he watched the two of you sleep. Many made mistakes, he knows that. He’s always hoped he would some day turn human again, but seeing how hurt Hyuck was, now he could just pray the two of you could mend the broken friendship you two once had.
By the next morning, you still felt a tad awkward. You were glad how welcoming the guys were, Renjun knocked on your door, inviting you for breakfast. Chenle made some funny & unfunny jokes. Mark clumsily spilled some orange juice on you in which Jaemin helped clean. And Jisung much like you, shyly smiled and chuckled to one another. The two doggy friends watched from a distance. Hyuck watched Jeno insist to you he’d like to feed them. “You sure? I don’t want to bug you.” “No! No really my pleasure.” Setting the water and food bowls down, he went to pet them. Hyuck as a joke wanted to nip his hand but was given a low growl from Johnny. “Don’t ruin it Haechan.” With a huff, he agrees and lets Jeno pet him. “Cute pup.” “I’m not a pup.” He’d mutter, Johnny to preoccupied in eating. For the days continuing, Hyuck could only smile gladly how well things were settling. You bonded well with everyone. You and Renjun loved cleaning. You games with Jeno and Chenle a lot. Kept Jaemin company when he cooked food. And while Jisung was still shy, you managed to get him to open up more. Now more comfortable to go to you with whatever was troubling him. A younger brother you always wanted.
And while things were going great, Hyuck still hated how sad you were the minute the door to his room was closed with you inside. It’s why you were always out, always avoided it as much as you can. He kept whining each time you began to slip a tear, you didn’t want the boys to see you in such a mess so you tried crying when Haechan wasn’t around. That didn’t work because he was attached to your hip, and in nights when you cried yourself to sleep you kept him outside with his bed so that he wouldn’t whine. “Little one what are you doing outside?” Johnny would say with a yawn, lately he loves spending his nights in Jisung’s room mainly because the boy keeps a lot of snacks in there. Jisung could never say no to Johnny, not with those pretty brown eyes. Having been scratching your door for the past ten minutes with whines to get you to open the door but to no avail, the door stayed close. “They keep locking me out, I need to be in there! Johnny help me.” Continue to scratch the door, Johnny sighs. Taking a seat and soon the door opens to Jeno’s room opens.
“Haechan? What’s wrong little guy?” “Okay why does everyone keeps calling me little?! I just stopped growing at a smaller body size!” A yawn escapes Jeno as he walks over to your door. Going to open it he hears faint sniffing coming from inside. You were crying he noticed. He didn’t know much about what you and Hyuck had, but he does know to not intrude and demand an explanation. “You know what? How about you come to sleep in my room for the night yeah?” “No! Damn it Jeno! Open the door!” “Give them space Haechan, it’s best if they figure their emotions out.” Huffing, he had no other choice but to let Jeno take him away. Another door opens, a faint tired voice speaks out. “Johnny.” Jisung calls for him, rubbing his eyes as he woke up with the other side of his bed empty. Walking inside his room, Jisung closes his door. “There you are boy.” At this point claiming Johnny as his. In Jeno’s room, Hyuck was placed on the boy’s bed, Jeno was about to return to his game but he froze when seeing Haechan stare up at him. “You have freakishly human looking eyes.” He tells him.
Deciding to end the game, he turns his devices off and gets in bed with Haechan tucked in too. “You seem super loyal to them.” He whispers to him. Careful to not wake any one up. Staying still and choosing to just simply listen, Hyuck settles down and listen. “I’ve noticed how sad they’ve been lately but I feel like I might be crossing the line if I ask. I also see how they never want to be in their room, I don’t know. Maybe they find it weird to be in there, I still don’t like the idea of them taking his room for the time being. Feels like we’ve replaced our best friend.” Closing his eyes as Jeno begins to pet him softly. “I miss him, the game matches aren’t the same with out him. House isn’t as loud as they used to be, and even if the aegyo annoyed the hell out of me, I miss his. I wonder where he is, why did he leave? Was it us? I guess I may never know, and that thought alone frightens me.” Turning off his lights, Hyuck tries to stay put. Not being able to see, he uses his hearing to depict whether his best friend was asleep or not.
Lifting his head when he heard the even breathing. He sighs sadly, “I’m sorry I wasn’t the best of friends you deserved to have.” Getting back under the blankets, Hyuck decides to call it a night. The alarm went off, that’s how he spent the morning off. A groan comes from Haechan as he tries to bury himself under the pillows. Getting out of bed, Jeno turns it off and tiredly goes to take a shower. ‘Work right.’ Hyuck thinks. As he hears the shower head turn on he tries to go back to sleep, but he hears your door open. Perking his head up, he climbs down with a thud. Barking to be let out, he hears you knock. “Hello? Jeno? Oh Haechan!” Running out the door happily. He makes circles around you. Even when you can’t make sense of him, it’s obvious he’s happy to see you and wants to check up on you.
“I’m okay Haechannie.” Picking him up, you two walk over to the kitchen, prepping his breakfast where the maknae’s were already eating. “Morning!” Smiling at them, you greeted them as well. “Since the older fellas are going to work today, and it’s your day off, you can come and take a walk with us at the park.” Chenle asks you. “Okay yeah sure.”
The walk ended up taking longer than expected. Instead the group plus the dogs took the entire day out for themselves. Going shopping, eating and conversing about god knows what. For the first time since moving in, Hyuck has finally seen a legitimate smile on your face. His tail always wagged each time he saw you with a smile, at one point it kept wagging in Johnny’s face he had to get up and move on the other side of you. “Hi Johnny, are you bored?” You cooed at him, currently watching Chenle and Jisung bicker about what movie they wanted to watch when getting home. Inside a candy store where you happened to be in front of the chocolate section, your favorites not in sight.
Haechan scowls when Johnny is given head rubs. Johnny felt the jealousy practically radiating off of the Maltese but he chooses to ignore it and relish the comfort of your hand. Hearing him scoff, “Whatever I can get those too anytime I want.” Johnny opens an eye and sees him continuing to stare. “Jealous?” “Jealous?!” Another scoff from him and he stands from his sitting position. “Think you’ve been eating too much kibble.” “So when will it be time for you to admit your feelings for them?” “Stop talking nonsense Johnny it’s not good for you.” “Whatever you say,” The head rubbing stopped as you went to another aisle and look for other candy to purchase. Going to follow, he notices Haechan still looking at the chocolate section.
“You ready to pay?” Chenle asked you. You weren’t going to buy much, only a few in your hand and you nodded. “Alright, I still need to check if they have my sour patch kids, you can get in line before it gets longer.” The store was pretty packed, only two cashiers so it took a while. When it was your turn, you had set your items on the counter. “Found everything you were looking for?” The cashier asked you kindly, he looked pretty stress by having to deal with many customers. “Yeah, although I couldn’t find a box of my favorite chocolates-“ A bark interrupts you causing you to look down, you see Haechan with a box of chocolates in his mouth. Preferably the ones you wanted. Gasping, you grab them from him in bewilderment. “How the…” Setting them on the counter you smile at the cashier happily.
“Never mind, my dog found them.” He chuckles as he looks over the counter and seeing Haechan wag his tail happily. His attention dead set on you. “Cute dog.” You laugh and nod, “Pretty smart too.” You smile down at him and Johnny sees Hyuck visibly shake in content. As you pay for your items, Haechan turns his head over at his friend. “What?” “No crush you say?” “Oh shut up Johnny.” Getting up to walk over to Jisung as he was the first to finish paying, he waited outside with him. The entire plan of today was to go to the park and now that it was currently 5 in the afternoon, the five of you were finally there. Thankfully not many people were there as the sun was already setting. Hyuck and Johnny were currently wrestling which you three found amusing.
It wasn’t intended to stay there until 7 when the sun was down and street lights were beginning to turn on but it was finally time to start heading over to the car. “I’ll put the stuff in the trunk.” Jisung said, “I’ll follow!” Chenle said as he didn’t really like being outside in the dark for too long. Shaking his head, Jisung let’s him follow. “I’ll be there in a second let me tie my shoes.” Nodding, the boys plus Johnny go to the car. Haechan deciding to stay with you, he waits patiently as you tie your shoe laces. ‘Bunny ears, cute.’ He thinks. You haven’t changed much since he last spoke to you properly and not with bickers.
“Can’t believe you still do bunny ears.” Hyuck playfully scoffs at you. “Hey! It’s the only way I know how to tie my shoes!” You laugh as you tie the knot. “See? It’s easy and effective.” Hyuck rolls his eyes as a sheepish grin is present on his face. It was the third time today he had to stop and wait for you to tie your shoes that kept untying.
He’d think it would be the last time until fifteen minutes later you once again stopped to tie your shoes. Stopping you before going to crouch, he does it himself. Pulling at the laces tightly as he ties them quickly and neatly. While doing so, he notices your tongue a bit crooked so he fixes that too. Wiping away the bit of dirt on them, he stands up. “Done.” He smiles at you, failing to notice the blush that slightly creeped its way on your face. Why must you like your best friend?
You finished tying the laces and as you went to pick up your bag you heard rustling behind you. Looking over and seeing Haechan to the side whose attention was on you simply. Furrowing your brow, you turn back but don’t see anything. Not thinking much of it, you stand up with your things, closing your purse as you speak to Haechan. “Ready?” A bark from him and he’s on his feet. His posture changes immediately when the rustling is heard and a lot closer. Growling lowly as to who it could be as he too couldn’t make out the thing behind the noise. Feeling a bit freaked, you begin to take steps away from the large bush near you. “Come on Haechan.” You tell him sternly, walking away quickly. You don’t dare to look back, you began to hear footsteps which only frightened you more and then your arms were tugged.
Yelping, you gasp when a man is getting a hold on you. “Let me go!” You yell. Haechan begins to bark as the man is trying to strip your purse away from you. “Don’t make a sound.” He threatens you, feeling the blade of his knife come with your skin. Shaking in his grasp as his eyes glare into yours. Hyuck continued to bark louder and louder, running over to bite his leg to let go of you. He winces and looks down at the Maltese. “You dumb dog!” He went to kick him but you pushed him back which resulted in him tugging on your hair. Tears begin to fall down your face as he presses the blade further into your skin. Hyuck wasn’t giving up still and as the barks got louder in the (was) quiet park, it ended up gaining the attention of Chenle, Jisung and Johnny.
“Please don’t hurt me!” You plead the man, “Give me your purse!” “Ok! ok!” Going to give it to him, the man doesn’t notice Johnny running over to him. A loud cry comes from him as the hand wrapped around your throat is bitten. Loud growls are heard as he shakes his head aggressively to make the bite force stronger. Getting away from his grip, Chenle and Jisung quickly pull you to them. “Call the police Jisung!” The houses lights near by are beginning to turn on as they get ready to come out. “Are you alright!” One shouts from a distance as they jog over to help. The man currently tackled by Johnny is desperately trying to free himself from him.
Shoving him off, he stands up. Everyone gasps when they see him about to pull a gun. More and more neighbors come out to help, trying to distract him. Advising him to put down the gun. “All I wanted was the purse! Either she hands me it or someone will get hurt!” Hands up in the air as they continue to speak to him. “No need to get violent okay? Just put down the gun.” And for a bit it seemed to be working, but the anger in his eyes should’ve been enough proof to show he wasn’t done making terrible decisions. His eyes were more specifically set on you most of the time. He was angered at failing to steal from you and from this, he now wishes to act his anger upon you. Still on the ground and shaking in Chenle’s arms. You seem to be frozen in your spot wanting nothing more but to simply be in the comfort of your (Donghyuck’s) room.Jisung had already called the police and were currently on their way. There was a silence for a moment, getting the neighbors to think he was about to put down the gun.
“Alright, I will.” As he goes to put it down, he quickly angles it towards you. A chorus of no’s are heard and gasps as they run over to him. Johnny goes to tackle him again but the sound of a gunshot is heard. The man is tackled on the floor, pinned to the ground as the gun is kicked away from his grasp. “Hold him down!” They shout. Looking over at where the shot was fired, they see that you were fine. Everyone was except for your right-hand boy. “Haechan!” Blood was beginning to spill from his abdomen in which the shot was fired into. Jumping in to take the shot, his breathing was lagged. Lying on the grass as he finds it hard to stay awake. Small whines come from him, “No, no Haechan look at me baby.” Brushing away the small fur from his face as his eyes looked distant. “Please Chenle we have to take him to a vet.” You beg him, the sounds of sirens are heard from the distance.
“You guys go, we can handle it from here.” A man who helped tackle him says. Johnny runs over and nudges his head at him. “Come on little one, you can fight through. You’re strong I know that much.” He tries not to panic, finding it hard to keep his cool as Haechan is unresponsive. Only priority is to keep breathing as much as he can. “It hurts.” He whispers softly. Blinking slowly as he’s picked up, a blanket is wrapped around him and is put into Chenle’s car. By now the rest of the guys were called about the situation. The drive there, Haechan was in your arms. He couldn’t focus on much but he could make out your voice. He can practically feel your emotions emitting off you and he wishes he can stand up and lick your tears away but he was feeling tired. Getting rushed inside as they took him away from you, you pulled Johnny close to you as you tried to stay calm.
You don’t know how long he’s been inside getting checked. But you do know it took long that the police officers showed up to get you to answer some questions. Outside, the guys had showed up as well, Jaemin walking over to you, handing you his sweater. “Can you recall what happened that lead the events tonight?” Nodding you spoke, eyes constantly looking back in case the vet walked out with some news of him. But while you were being interrogated, Haechan was getting surgery. Bullet was shot deep inside it caused some internal damage. He lost too much blood and doctor was afraid that he wouldn’t make the night. They managed to stop the bleeding and take the bullet out but as soon as he was bandaged they wanted you to get called in.
“Ms. Y/l/n?” You heard the vet call for you, looking back at the officer, “Would that be all?” “For the moment yes, we will have you called in to the police department to release a statement but for now we will call it a night.” Nodding, you rush inside. “Right in here.” Following, Johnny is having to be stopped by Jeno as he barks to get inside. “Let me in!” By how strong he was, Jisung had to come and help keep him put. “Unfortunately we don’t have the greatest news. The bullet gazed too deep, it did some internal damages, we got the wound to stop bleeding and the bullet out but we believe he might not make the night.” You began to cry as you walk over to Haechan. He wasn’t responsive as the sedative still hadn’t weared off. “We could try everything we can to save him but it may not be enough or we have another way, euthanizing him. Whatever the choice may be, we wanted you to come and see him before it was too late. We’ll give you some time with him alone.”
Closing the door behind them, you break down in sobs. Petting his head as your sniffles are heard throughout the small room. “I’m so sorry Haechannie, you shouldn’t have gotten hurt. I failed to protect you.” While you spoke to him, Hyuck heard you. Yet he couldn’t see you. It was pitch black, he couldn’t move, just heard. “I’m just bad luck.” He wanted to tell you that wasn’t true. He wanted to comfort you and tell you what you’re saying is nonsense but he was just immobile.
“I don’t want to let you go, I can’t.” He felt a tear fall on his fur. He knows it was yours which motivated him to push himself to wake up. He needed to get off of the drugs given to him. “You can’t leave me Haechan, not like this.” Pulling him into your arms, you kiss his head softly. “No matter how stubborn and bratty you could be, you were the best dog I could have ever had.” His nose twitched but that wasn’t enough for him. His eyes needed to him, tail needed to wag and he needed to cover you in sloppy kisses to prove to you he wasn’t going anywhere. “My best friend.” ‘Come on Hyuck!’ He shouts at himself. With all this fighting he began to grow even more tired. Feeling super weak, he just feels sad. Afraid and overall exhausted.
“I’m so sorry I let you down y/n.” A small tear falls down on Hyuck’s face. The tick from the clock just indicated the time going by, time coming closer to his passing. The weather got gloomier, as the boys waited outside and Johnny watched the door intently ready to see you or Haechan come out any time. The windows were being covered in water droplets. And soon thunder was heard following by lightening. You could hear the sound the rain did on the window. Getting louder and harder the more rain it fell. “I’m sorry I couldn’t do more for you.” You kiss his head. You didn’t need to make a decision for him, as you knew that choice was ripped from you the moment that bullet was fired. Haechan felt one last head rub being given from you. Sighing contently as he finally got his head rub. Sleep was consuming him slowly and he tried desperately to calm himself down. Only listening to the beating of your heart and voice.
“I love you…” He says one final time before letting himself get consumed by sleep. “I love you.” You hug your best friend tighter. The door is opened and it doesn’t take long for them to know Haechan didn’t make it. “I’m sorry.” It was exceptionally difficult to walk out and have sets of eyes waiting for any news of him. Shaking your head, they get up to pull you in a group hug. The waiting room is filled with your sobs, as you desperately try to calm yourself down. “I’m sorry.” Jaemin tries to console you. Rocking you softly, the ride home was silence. Johnny hadn’t move since he seated himself in the car. He too mourning for his best friend. Caught up in his thoughts, once again pushing away his emotions. He thought he’s gotten pretty good at it yet now that he tries to swallow down the lump in his throat he finds it impossible to do so.
The car engine is turned off, they tried to help you get out and walk you to the house. Not wanting to let you out of their sight. Going to get Johnny out, the door is knocked into them as Johnny runs off. “Johnny!” They shout, going to turn around. Jaemin quickly pushed you forward. “What’s going on?” “Don’t worry, the boys can handle it.” “Jaemin.” “Johnny ran off but it’s nothing they can’t handle, come on you need to sit.” “What?! He’s run off! I have to go after him-“ “Y/n please you’re hurting, just let me take care of you, the boys are already chasing him down the street.”
Your worries only spreads. You couldn’t focus on anything no more, the loss of Haechan and now the running of Johnny had you in a frenzy. Running your hand through your hair, you simple couldn’t calm yourself. The night kept going and the storm continued on. Johnny didn’t know where he was going just that he needed to be away as far as possible. Yeah it wasn’t fair to you, but he just felt as if he couldn’t think. He wanted to cry, scream and break anything in sight. He heard the boys yell his name but he paid no mind just continued on running. His black shiny fur was soaked by the time he found a dry spot. Panting as he finally let his tears out. Letting the rain combine itself with his tears. He should’ve done more. He kept telling himself that. If only he hadn’t stopped tackling the man, Haechan would still be alive. Then again that was his destiny all along, to stay forever alone. Was he a fool to think his best friend would always stick around.
He doesn’t know whether he’d ever come back. He can’t see himself doing that, it hurts to know he’s only making your grieving worse he can’t seem to force himself to be in an environment where the memory of Hyuck still lingers. Getting shoo’ed by the restaurant manager he was by, he took the rest of his night walking down the wet muddy streets.
You didn’t come into work the next day. The entire house was quiet. The solemn look on their faces when they came home to tell you they couldn’t bring Johnny back broke you. Spending most of your morning in your room, they didn’t bother to get you out of bed or to tell you breakfast was ready. They knew you needed your space and so they did just that. They didn’t notice how lonely the house once was when there weren’t any pets. Now playing with their food, they glance over at the empty food bowls that had Haechan’s and Johnny’s name printed on them. No one dared to talk as they for once had nothing to discuss. Only the clanking of the plates were heard. Jeno checked the time and noticed it was closer to making your way down the police station. “I’ll be taking y/n to the station.” Nodding, they watch him drop his dishes in the sink and go to his room to dress up.
Having to make your way over, involved passing the same park that had you going to the station in the first place. Head down as you refused to look at the spot in which you will forever haunt you. Driving by various of shops and stores, you guys drive by alleys as well. A very dirty and trashy one in particular. With a groan, the figure wakes up with a massive headache. Vision blurred for a bit as their sight comes in view. Smell was horrendous and feeling soreness all over them. Getting up tiredly, they wince as they grip their stomach. Looking down, there was nothing. No scar or bruises. Then they notice their arms, and legs…their fingers and abs. Gasping they sit up and look over at a small puddle that the rain made overnight. Eyes widen as they take in the sight.
“I’m human!”
“See that wasn’t so bad.” Jeno tries to lighten up the mood. Parked in front of a McDonald’s, where he hands you your order. Just left the station half an hour ago where you thought you spent an eternity in there. Sighing, you take a sip from your drink. “All those questions exhausted me.” You two sat on the car eating, the eye bags and puffiness were proof that you didn’t get much sleep last night. With a sad smile, Jeno started up the car and drove you two home.
“I’m sorry for everything you’re going through. Wish I can say more…” “Not your fault. Shit happens and no one can predict it.” Looking at him, he glances at you when he can before his attention is back on the road. “Life sucks.” He chuckles and nods. “That, you are correct.” Driving into the parking space, you two get out and head inside. You heard voices speaking which in contrast to the silence from the morning. Walking into the living room, you freeze when you see everyone gathered to hug one individual in particular.
“Donghyuck?” You gasp. Turning around, he smiles at you softly. “Hey…missed me?” Jeno catches up to you, confused as to why you were frozen in your spot until his eyes meet his friend. “Hyuck!” Running over to him where he pulls him in a tight hug. A few of the guys behind them were wiping tears at the return of their absent friend. “Where the hell have you been?! Were you lost? Kidnapped? Are you okay?” Nodding to all of them, he pulls away from the hug. “I’m okay guys, I am. I just, gosh it’s complicated to explain.” As the boys kept questioning him and his well being his eyes were still on you. Deciding to just let the group of friends be, you retreat yourself to your room, well now old room. Hyuck wanted talk to you, he wanted to hold you and tell you the truth of where’s he’s been at all along. It felt like forever until the group settled down, one by one they asked him about his whereabouts. They couldn’t believe he was staying with a stranger. “A woman?” It was even more confusing how he kept telling him he found it hard to go home and didn’t have much access. “I just got comfortable at some point and now I’m here.” “So you were held captive.” “Not exactly…”
The boys watched him in wonder. Jisung leans over to Jeno in concern, “You think he got Stockholm Syndrome?” He whispered not so loudly. Rolling his eyes, Hyuck stands up. “Well if I must, I’m going to excuse myself.” Making his way back to his old room, he knocks softly. Door slightly agaped and he sees you inside, packing a suitcase. “Don’t know if you heard but, I’ve been camping in your room for some time. Deal was, soon as you came back. I’d leave so, I should be out in a few hours. Will come back for the rest of my-“ Taking the shirts away from you, he sets them on the bed. Closing the door behind him, “Don’t go.” “What?” “I said don’t go.” Eyeing him up, “You’ve changed…usually you would’ve said some snob comment and snapped your fingers at me-“
Walking over to you, he cuts you off by kissing you. It’s something never in a million years would you have expected that. All the emotions you held, the tears you thought had already shed for him only reappeared once more. Hyuck felt a tear fall on him, yours. He also felt you pull him in closer. Pushing him back you shake your head. “Y/n-“ “Don’t.” Turning around to continue packing, he gets a hold of your hand. “Donghyuck let go.” “No, please I need to talk to you.” “What? Are you going to sass me or say something incredibly rude? Oh I know! You’re going to say I can never be considered as your type and not good enough for you right? Or are you going to blame me for ruining our friendship-“
“No! No! If anything I want to apologize to you. I know I’m many years late, I know I fucked up and for that I’m ready to not ever be forgiven but you have to know that as much of a prick I was I do love you.” “Love me? Did you love me the day you humiliated me or threw my feelings in the bin like a piece of trash?” More tears began to slip past your sockets and so as him. “Besides why does it matter anyway? It’s been years, I thought you’d want to ask why I was even staying in your room”
“You were evicted.” “They were quick to tell you-“ “No I knew all along.” “Oh yeah were you spying on me the entire time you disappeared- disappeared…” A loud smack is heard from down the hallway. A loud yelp from Hyuck is heard in the living room. “OW! What was that for?” Rubbing the red spot inflicted by you, you glare at him. “How can you run away like that! You had everyone so worried! You had me worried!” “Really?” Preferring to stay quiet, you turn away from him. “Doesn’t matter, I don’t matter to you.”
“Please don’t say that.” “It’s true.” Slamming the suitcase shut before you get to put anymore clothes, you sigh and look up at Hyuck. “You want to know where I was this entire time?” Nodding your head softly, he holds your face. “I was always by your side.” “Huh?” “You couldn’t really recognize me with all of the fur, but at least you gave me a name. Haechan.” Backing away from him, you stay confused. “How…” Scoffing, you look away, hands on your hips as you begin to laugh. “This must be a joke, you know I just lost him yesterday and to THINK you can stoop so low and make a complete joke out of it!” Shaking his head, he walks closer to you. “I’m not joking y/n, the old lady at the cafe gave me this chocolate piece of candy. I ate it and felt sick, I passed out and woke up as this Maltese dog. I didn’t know where I was until I found you walking home so I followed.”
“Okay you need to go to the hospital and get yourself checked.” “Y/n I’m not lying!” “And I’m not buying it!” Huffing, he ruffled his hair stressfully. “Johnny’s human too! He too got cursed by the old woman but for a different reason.” “Different reason?” “Yes, I got casted because of how egotistical I can be which I truly apologize really, Johnny became a dog because he kept pushing people away and always wanting to be left alone. His punishment is to feel lonely while as a dog and learn what it feels like to have company and appreciate the beauty of it.”
“Hyuck please, just please. I can’t, I’m going through enough. I lost both of them Hyuck. Both! If this is your way of lightening up the situation your just sick-“ “We followed you to your work! It was getting late and we went to a Chinese restaurant. You sat me on your lap and afterwards walked back home because the buses didn’t accept pets on board. If I was lying I wouldn’t have said something you never once told anyone right? And Mark, you went on a date with him which um…well uh I kinda followed, you know just to make sure he wouldn’t try to do things you weren’t comfortable doing.”
His eyes averted between you and the floor. Rubbing his arms nervously as he waited for a response. The more the room went silent the more his nervousness grew. “Please say something.” He almost whispers it. Standing up, you wrap your arms around him. “Your a real pain in the ass you know that?” You mumble in his neck. Wrapping his arms around your torso, he nods. Holding you tightly not wanting you to pull away too soon. “I know, I’m trying to not overdo it.” You snort and agree. Leaning his head against you, he wipes your tear. “I’m sorry I made you cry, I know I’ve been making your life a living hell. Forever will carry that guilt.” “You defended me last night.” He nodded, pecking your nose softly as he pulls back.
Holding your hand, he motions for you to sit on the bed with him. “Well yeah, I may have been small but I tried with what I could. Wish I could’ve done more.” “Hyuck you died for me, you did enough for me.” “Well technically I didn’t die since I’m still here and breathing but-“ Groaning, you lay your head on his shoulder. “See!” “What?” “Making remarks like that just makes me want to tug your hair.” “What?! Why? I’m just saying I can’t die if I’m still alive and well??” Laying back on his bed, you two laugh and look up at the ceiling. “Please forgive me y/n. I know what I said earlier, but I really do mean what I said. I love you.”
Gulping, you nod. “I uh, still have things I need to sort out. I mean how can I be sure this isn’t you messing with my feelings again-“ “Then let me prove it. Let me take you on a date.” “First day back as a human and already trying to date your once owner?” “Don’t word it like that!” Laughing, you nod. Pecking his cheek as he shuts himself up and blushes. “Don’t think I forgive you yet. What you did still hurts like hell, you’re not off the hook yet.” “And so I’ll wait until the day you’re ready.”
“I’m really glad you’re back.” You whisper to him. Tilting his head, he smiles warmly at you. “Me too.”
THREE MONTH LATER
“You know you guys can still back out and just continue living with us?” Jeno tries to convince you guys. Chuckling, you two shake your heads. Dropping the many boxes on the floor to your guys empty apartment. “Thanks, but no thanks.”
The pass three months Haechan has been determined to gain your trust back. Taking you on dates, lowering his snarky comments, becoming more aware of your feelings. He’s just become the old friend you once knew, that including your feelings for him. Now that, that is still scary to admit. For now, you two have decided to live together as roommates. Nothing more, nothing less…(for now).
And now, here you guys were moving everything in. The boys tiredly sat on the floor as they wiped sweat off their foreheads. “What do you guys carry in these boxes?” Renjun blows the piece of hair off of his forehead. “Clothes?” You say to them. “Too many clothes.” Chenle huffs as he lays flat on the cold floor. The apartment had three rooms total, a spare that you guys didn’t know what to use it for. There’s been a few bickering moments where you wanted it to be a guest bedroom, and Hyuck wanted it as a gaming room. When the boys left, you still looked around the place in awe. It wasn’t the best but knowing you had your own home left you feeling content.
“I want it to be a guest bedroom Haechan.” You tell him again. Haechan had now been Hyuck’s official nickname, the name will forever hold special meaning and even if you’ve been calling him that for a month now he still smiles at the mention of it. Pulling you to sit down next to him, he sighs. “Okay, fine. But! I need to make sure our guest is someone we feel absolutely comfortable with and not some stranger that is living with us just to sleep in.” “So you want another roommate?” “Only then will I accept.” “Ok!”
Making the flyers and spreading it on social media didn’t take long. Living in a city where it was a bit too pricey to be living in, people have been coming in a lot. It seemed like the interviews were dragging on and on. Almost felt unsure whether you and Haechan would actually find the perfect roommate. “Well that’s the last of them for today.” He sighs and goes to close the door. Raising a brow when the door is stopped, he looks down and sees a foot. Opening the door he sees a tall man stand in the door way. “Can I help you?”
“I’m here for the extra room offer?” He smiles at him. Haechan felt a chill run up his spine as he looks him in the eyes. Way to familiar eyes. “Sorry we are done for the day.” “Aw man, that’s a shame.” “Yeah…” Shaking your head, you notice how awkward it had gotten. Getting up and walking over to him, you slightly push Haechan aside. “We can fit in one more, what’s your name?”
I hate accidents except when we went from friends to this - haechan imagine
hi! so i’m back. I’ve been swarmed with work these past few weeks and couldn’t get some writing done. finally here’s one and i’m honestly so inlove with this🥺💛
Like always i appreciate all your support! leave a like/comment here if you have any questions or suggestions!
by the way, I opened a KOFI acc. this is totally optional and if only you want to donate😊 any donation will be highly appreciated or you can just leave a like/comment here💛
For my other works you can check them out here, and for my other story series’ you can check them out here.
✩ haechan x reader | friends to lovers | fluff | 0.9k
SUMMARY ◧ in which a spontaneous dance in the kitchen with donghyuck sparks a revelation about how you feel about him. // part of the one hundred ways to say “i love you” series
WARNINGS ◧ an almost kiss (ft. mark as the kissblocker), mention of alcohol
RATING ◧ teen+
TAGLIST ◧ @d-nghy-ck @infnteen
PROMPT ◧ “Can I have this dance?”
friday night dinners at the boys’ shared house is the best way to end your work week, along with the peaceful clean-up that follows.
summary -> haechan is sick, and you are more than happy to take care of him.
warnings -> friends but they have a crush on each other😱
haechan laid in bed, sniffling. he had pulled the comforter back onto his body and curled up.
on the TV was his favorite show, he was currently rewatching it whilst he fought off his cold with rest.
lord knows where he had caught it, but it was unfortunate. days after he had decided to start his trek to college by moving out, he was sniffling and sneezing.
thankfully, he was able to postpone the college signup and tour, and get help moving into his apartment.
“i thought I told you to cover up with the sheet, not the comforter, hyuck,” you slowly opened the door, holding a plastic bag. “i only left for fifteen minutes.” you pulled the thick blanket off of him and folded it at the end of the bed.
the mask covering your face made it hard to see your expression, so haechan returned eye contact with his big, beautiful, brown doe eyes. “i’m cold.”
“i know you get cold, but we have to bring your temperature down. and you refuse to eat ice cream”
“speaking of temperature, I have to take yours again.”
he sat up and pulled his knees to his chest. “because you want me to eat the kind that doesn’t taste as good.” haechan really wanted you to take off your mask, because.. he just wanted you to.
you were gorgeous, and admiring your face could probably cure his sickness.
you shook your head. “i bought an alternative,” a few treats were pulled out of the bag. “ice pops. they’re cheap, and they are basically shaved ice. you can eat as many as you want, anything for the sake of you getting better.”
the thermometer that you had also pulled out of the bag was placed in haechan’s mouth.
haechan pouted while it took his temperature, because of how babied he was right now. it was to get him better faster, but he was supposed to be an adult, moving out into his old place. yet here you were, taking care of him.
“did you get any rest?” you held his face in your hands. partly to just coddle him further.
the thermometer beeped, and you took it out.
102 degrees.
still lower than the previous day.
“no.. I feel like my insides are on fire,” his voice was nasally and cute, the entirety of his nose red and irritated.
“and that’s what the ice pops are for, hyuck,” you peeled off the seal and handed it to him.
he took it from you, and stuck it in his mouth. immediately, his body felt a little more at peace, and his muscles relaxed.
earlier, he tried eating ice.
all that did was hurt his teeth. this was a happy solution to that madness. “how many did you buy?” he mumbled around the pop.
“i bought six, because I knew you would like them. they’re pretty big, so it should last you today and tomorrow. and just so you know these aren’t meals.”
“yeah, yeah,” haechan rolled his eyes and looked back at the TV.
“while you’re occupied, let’s take the sheet off of you, too,” you climbed onto the bed and laid next to him, close enough for comfort, but far enough to keep him from heating up. “you need to rest, once you’re done, got it?”
again, he rolled his eyes, but laid his head against your shoulders. his legs were tucked close to his body.
the show was getting good.
even if he was with you, he wouldn’t want to miss any of it - despite the fact that he was watching it again.
the couple in the show were getting closer, and he could actually see their chemistry. “look, look, they-” haechan pouted.
the ending music of the episode was playing, just as it seemed they would kiss. “how long have you been sleeping..” he set the empty ice pop inside the bag and grabbed another one.
best take advantage of this moment. haechan let you rest back on the pillows, curling you into his side as much as he wanted while covering you up with the sheet.
for extra measure, he slipped the mask off, down and under your chin.
“much better.” haechan grinned proudly.
-
nearly two episodes down the line, he felt his eyelids starting to get heavy, and he began to miss a few seconds of the show at a time. as a boring and ineffective part played out, his eyes began to shut. just then, you decided to wake up.
“hyuck..” you groaned, sitting up. “you didn’t even take your medicine..” it took you several moments to realize that your mask was off, but when you did, you playfully slapped his arm.
“stop, stop! I just wanted to see your face,” haechan pouted for the nth time this visit. “i’ll take my medicine if you give me a kiss.”
you pulled the medicine out of the bag and measured it out. “if you get me sick, I will be so mad at you, lee haechan, because some of us have to function in the real world, as fully functioning adults.” you held his chin and gave him a prolonged peck before handing him his medicine.
“hey!” it was hard to tell what part of his face was blushing, and what was red from his cold.
the way that you nonchalantly acknowledged the feelings you had for one another is what really sealed the deal for him. “thank you,” haechan mumbled as he took the medicine.
“i’m going now, before I catch more germs than I can afford.”
he stood up and grabbed your hand. “goodbye.” haechan’s eyes were wide, and he was feeling much bolder now that he was satisfied and not feeling like his insides were an inferno. he wrapped his arms around your torso and laid his head on your shoulder.
“goodbye, hyuck, take care of yourself while i’m gone, okay?” you rubbed his back and kissed his head. “my phone is always on if you need me.”
haechan retreated back to his bed, where he listened to you leave, before pulling out his phone to text you an unnecessarily long series of heart themed emojis.
haechan would buy you any little thing you like to collect. whether you know it or not, he listens to when you talk about the things you hyper fixate on. he would go through hell to wait in a queue or have a reminder for a sale to buy you what you like, if it meant to see the smile on your face. he brushes it off when you tell him, “how did you remember that i told you i loved these?” or “how did you know i didn’t have this one?” in the end, you end up throwing yourself in his arms, pampering his face with kisses as a thank you.
You always admired people who plays the guitar, specifically, the electric one.
You went around the school, to find a quiet spot. You heard the roaring of a guitar, with a honey-like voice making harmonies together. Your feet dragged you to the sound. Peeping secretly, there you found the lead-guitarist of your school, Lee Haechan. You admired everything about him, the way his fingers nibbled the chords, the way his head was bopping to the song, and how his voice was so unique.
“mind requesting a song instead of standing there like a fool?”
He spoke. Your body took a screenshot and he noticed it, he chuckled attractively, “come here, sit beside me. I’ll play any song you want.”
