✿ STAY (bias : Felix & Han ; wrecker : ot8 ) since 2022
✿✿ CARAT (bias : Woozi, Joshua, Jeonghan, S.Coups ; wrecker : ot13 ) since 2024 [CUBIC since 2022]
□ I don't have a particular posting schedule... But you will usually find new recommendations post on the member's birthdays or other special occasions...;)
MDNI!!
FACELESS EMPTY BLOGS WITHOUT AGE-INDICATORS WILL BE BLOCKED!!!
SPAM LIKES (aka BOT BEHAVIOR) WILL BE BLOCKED !!
~𝒎𝒚 𝑺𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒇𝒊𝒄 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔 𝒃𝒍𝒐𝒈~
(P.S. i do not reblog or like fics from this account)
🗝 ☁️⋅𓂃 ࣪ ִֶָ☾. 𝙻𝙸𝙱𝚁𝙰𝚁𝚈 .☾ ִֶָ ࣪𓂃⋅☁️
No particular posting schedule; I generally post whenever I am able to make time!
✨but I'll definitely post member-specific recommendations on their birthdays!!✨
💎points to remember if you decide to follow me:
As I mainly recommend NSFW fics, minors are not allowed here. If you decide to follow this blog, you need to have an age indicator on your blog!!
!! MINORS DNI !!
Also, my Seventeen bias are Woozi, Joshua and Jeonghan but I adore ot13...so I recommend fics for almost all members... (except Junhui and Dino because I see them more like brothers and do not feel comfortable reading smut about them)
Please DO NOT SPAM LIKE because that is bot behaviour and not encouraged in Tumblr :)
If you feel you are okay with the rules then scroll down ... Although I do not write myself, the Tumblr is full of amazing writers and I hope I can help you find them so that you all can also enjoy their writings and appreciate them just as I do.
SUMMARY: Your roommate has been in love with you the entire time. However, there has always been a barrier between you two, how long will he endure it before finally accepting whether you were ever meant to be with him?
PAIRING: choi seungcheol x f!reader
GENRE: drama, fluff, angst, college au, oneshot
WARNINGS: mild suggestive content, strong language (not really in this fic), reader has a boyfriend (no cheating, i promise), mixed signals, hurt w comfort, mention of family death, grieving for loved ones, breakup, emotional conflict, implied indecisiveness, slow burnnnnnnnn.
WC: 11.8k
ADD TAGS❦: roommate! seungcheol, sport sc majored! seungcheol, physiotherapy student! reader, unrequited love, one-sided love, domestic fluff (as roommates), platonic relationship, open ending, boyfriend! joshua, jeonghan as moral support, hidden feelings revealed, yearning! seungcheol omg, minghao (my love poetry shifu), no comedy because im not feeling funny today, reader uses she/her pronouns.
a/n: "if you don't have the confidence that you can make them happier than i do, please give them back to me." omg seungcheol what the fahhhhhh how about my mental healthhhhhhh. i will always love you cheol, you're the real man.
Why did the universe decide to bring him to you? It’s impossible for the two of you to become one. You were already bound by a promise.
You and him.
And not him.
When he first moved into the place he was supposed to share with another tenant, he hadn’t expected it to be a woman living there. If he had known, he would have chosen somewhere else. But it couldn’t be undone, he had already paid the deposit and everything else.
He just hoped his roommate would be okay with a guy staying under the same roof.
Surprisingly, you weren’t upset at all. If anything, you welcomed him warmly and politely. He guessed you were just being nice about it, maybe you weren’t capable of saying no. He figured you were probably a pushover, just like him.
One thing he found odd about you was how quiet you were. There was nothing wrong with that, of course. Like with most roommates he’d had before (except when he lived with Jeonghan), people usually didn’t talk much beyond their day, just brief “good mornings” and “how was your day?”
Still, a simple hey would’ve been nice. He thought you were just shy… or borderline rude, though not intentionally.
That was until one time. He stepped out of the bathroom with a towel wrapped securely around his waist. Water droplets dripped from his damp hair as he dried it with another towel. Then he froze on the spot.
You were in the kitchen, holding a tub of ice cream, staring at him blankly.
He stared back, equally dumbfounded that you had caught him in such a compromising state.
You snapped out of it first, quickly retreating to the couch where your show was playing on the television, knees tucked to your chest, ignoring how your ears burned red.
When he returned to the living room, fully clothed this time, you were already gone. He shut his eyes, mentally cursing at how things had probably become awkward between the two of you.
The next two days were… normal. You didn’t try to talk to him, which wasn’t unusual, but after what had happened, he couldn’t help but feel even more uneasy with the silence. He had imagined he’d try to be nice, maybe take the opportunity to grow closer to you, but you made it harder.
Seungcheol wasn’t the type to give up easily. He did try to make small talk, but you always avoided him, not obviously, but just enough. Every time he thought he had a chance, you slipped away, as if the universe itself refused to let him reach you.
“Men of different principles don’t work well together.”
That’s what Minghao told him about his situation. Seungcheol nearly scoffed at that, not even bothering to ask what he meant. Sure, the two of you lived together, but that didn’t mean you had to get along.
Still, he insisted. He wanted to get to know his roommate.
You both respected each other’s privacy and space. So why was it so difficult to even engage, to maybe form a friendship? Even a little interaction would’ve been nice.
“TOGETHER WITH YOU IS MY FAVOURITE PLACE TO BE.”
The first time you actually talked to him was the day you discovered his shitty cooking skills. He had to admit, he was everything but a cook. He just hoped his future lover would never see this side of him, one he never wanted to be found out.
You stood there, staring at his burnt scrambled eggs, if that’s what he liked to call them. He nearly had a heart attack because of you.
“Looking at you makes me want to strive for better things.”
Seungcheol’s brows furrowed at that as he tossed the burnt pan into the sink. “What a nice thing to say. Why don’t you read me a bedtime story too, with a warm glass of milk?”
You simply watched him as he tried to clean whatever charred mess was left behind.
“Have you eaten?” you asked, standing beside him as he grumbled, scrubbing at the pan. “Dinner, I mean.”
“Well…” he said, pausing, “I was planning to, but my dinner burned, as you can see. Guess I’m not having it.” He let out a sarcastic scoff.
“I can see that.”
He stopped mid-scrub and turned to look at you, already not in the mood to deal with anything. He was still irritated. Mostly because Jeonghan had cheated during a card game, which led to him being punished by having to get rejected by the hottest girl on campus.
“It costs nothing to be kind,” he said, frowning. “Are you trying to make my day worse?”
His eyes then landed on the box of fried chicken in your arms… then back to your innocent gaze. He immediately realized he hadn’t meant to take his frustration out on you.
“Oh, okay,” you said simply. “I was thinking maybe we could have dinner together. I accidentally ordered extra.”
Now, he felt like an asshole.
That’s how the two of you ended up having dinner together, sitting across from each other as he devoured the food like there was no tomorrow. He might’ve been terrible at cooking, but he was grateful to have you. You even offered side dishes you had stored in the fridge, which meant he didn’t have to cook much, especially since he had agreed to pay half for the groceries. A deal the two of you had made.
It was safe to say you both started talking after that.
Sometimes, he would ask if you wanted to watch a movie with him, and surprisingly, you said yes. There was always a respectable gap between you on the couch, but despite the distance, he felt… comfortable. At ease.
Other times, after coming back from the gym, he’d find a warm meal waiting for him. You’d leave a small note before heading out to your part-time job. He’d be lying if he said it didn’t touch him—more than that, it made his heart flutter.
It slowly became a routine. If you didn’t have time to wash the dishes, he would do it. It felt fair.
You once mentioned that you loved peaches during dinner. He had no idea what possessed him to buy some the next time he went grocery shopping. You had told him you rarely bought fruit because it was expensive, so you usually left it off your list.
But he restocked it anyway, just because you mentioned it once.
And you were happy.
For the first time, you smiled.
It was rare, but seeing it did something to him, something that made him want to see it again.
So he tried.
Eating together became routine. He found himself not wanting to eat alone unless you were there. Movie nights on Fridays. Grocery runs together, waiting for you to finish your shift, brushing it off like he hadn’t adjusted his gym schedule just to match yours.
He liked this domestic life with you.
Seungcheol never imagined that something so simple would become what he looked forward to the most. Maybe it was because it was you.
Seungcheol liked it better when you were there.
“EVERYWHERE I LOOK, I AM REMINDED OF YOUR LOVE.”
At some point in your life, you become aware that some people can stay in your heart, but not in your life.
Seungcheol never bothered to find out about your relationship status. He simply never considered it, maybe because your life seemed so… normal. Going to class, working part-time, and, if you were feeling productive, doing your laundry and cleaning during your free time.
It was during one of your usual dinners together. By then, the two of you had reached a stage where personal topics weren’t off-limits anymore.
“You know, I used to have a crush on you last semester,” you casually mentioned, right in the middle of eating.
Seungcheol almost choked, quickly gulping down his water. “What? I mean—what happened then?”
“What do you mean?”
He blinked, swallowing nervously, his Adam’s apple bobbing slightly. “Oh, you know… what about now? Do you still…?”
He let the question trail off, trying so hard not to look too eager, the warmth creeping up his neck betraying him.
You laughed. A genuine one as you tried to hold it in.
He frowned.
“I’m sorry,” you said, still smiling at his sulking expression. “I used to, okay? I figured it was just a silly crush. I thought you were cool… charming, even. Well—let’s not go that far now.”
You continued eating, while he just stared at you.
You said everything… except the answer he was hoping for.
“By the way, I don’t think I’ll cook dinner tomorrow. I’ve got plans,” you added casually, as if you hadn’t just changed the topic on purpose.
“Why?” he asked. “Got a date or something?”
You didn’t reply immediately. Then, just as casually, you said, “It’s my boyfriend. I’ll probably be back late. I hope you’re not a light sleeper.”
Seungcheol froze, he watched you continue eating like it was nothing, but something inside him cracked. So you were in a relationship this whole time.
Oh.
Oh.
The realization hit him like a truck. He had never even considered it. Maybe he was upset… or maybe just sad. He couldn’t quite tell.
It explained everything. That your hesitation, the slight distance at the beginning. You had been setting boundaries without ever saying them out loud, and yet, you still treated him with kindness.
It was stupid of him. Because somewhere along the way, he had developed a crush on you.
From the first day he moved in, he thought you were cute. Then the two of you got closer, and he found himself getting giddy over the smallest things. He thought that maybe, one day, you could become something more.
But he never considered this.
—
When he came back to the apartment that night, wasted and drunk after a party with his friends, he was mortified to find himself neatly tucked into the couch with a blanket.
Later, he received a message from Jeonghan apparently, he had run into you outside and helped carry Seungcheol all the way back.
The next time he saw Jeonghan, he was going to strangle him.
It seemed like you had taken care of him while he was a drunk mess. Painkillers and an empty mug sat on the coffee table. He buried his face into the pillow, probably one you had given him.
He didn’t know how to face you after this.
You were already in class by the time he woke up. When he saw the small note stuck on the fridge, he picked it up and read it.
“I made you some egg drop soup. Reheat it before eating. GWS! :3”
Seungcheol pressed his lips together as he reread it.
Your note.
His gaze lingered on the pot resting on the stove.
The headache was bad, but not as bad as the way he felt in class later. That’s when he started avoiding you on campus. What if he had said something he shouldn’t have the night before? He would never live it down.
Still, you found him anyway.
You approached him with a small bottle—something he assumed was for hangovers. “I figured you might not come, but you did anyway,” you said, handing it to him.
He smiled, taking it carefully. “Thanks. You didn’t have to, you know. The soup was great… sorry about that.”
“There’s nothing to be sorry about,” you chuckled. “Nothing to be ashamed of.”
The only thing he was ashamed of was that you had to see him like that. He always wanted to look cool in front of you, but he failed miserably.
And that smile you gave him?
It should be illegal. Because it felt like he wasn’t allowed to receive it, not when you belonged to someone else.
Then someone called your name from afar. Both of you turned.
“Oh—I have to go. My boyfriend is calling,” you said, waving as you walked toward him.
Seungcheol watched from a distance as your boyfriend’s hand rested on your back while the two of you walked away together.
This was why he couldn’t hate you.
Even after everything, you were still kind to him. Maybe because he was just your friend, your roommate. Nothing more. It felt so natural when it was just the two of you, but now, it felt like his hopes had been crushed before he even got the chance to dream.
Someone beside him whistled, throwing an arm over his shoulder. “Damn, they look good together.”
Seungcheol didn’t respond. He simply walked away toward his class, leaving Jeonghan behind confused, but aware his friend was in a bad mood.
—
The rest of the day went by as usual.
He thought the crush would fade eventually, but it didn’t.
If anything, it only grew stronger. Of course it did, you lived together. You talked, ate, and shared a life in the smallest ways. Even after everything was revealed, nothing changed on the surface. You both respected each other’s boundaries.
It wasn’t like he wanted this to happen. Sometimes, you have to forget what you feel and remember what you deserve.
But for him… it wasn’t that simple.
The more he tried to forget, the emptier he felt. Even hookups left him hollow. Coming home afterward made it worse, he couldn’t stand the thought of you seeing him like that.
He didn’t want you to think he was that kind of person. How was he supposed to move on, just like that? When you were the one making lunch—not just for yourself, but for him too.
Meals together felt like something precious. On days when one of you wasn’t there, the dining table felt… empty. Sometimes he would wait until you came home from your shift, just so he could eat with you.
If the peaches ran out, he’d restock them immediately just because they were your favorite.
When he asked about your day, you always answered. No matter how tired you were, you never forgot to cook for both of you. And when he said he had only eaten snacks, you’d quietly make something for him anyway.
It reminded him of his grandmother, how she used to dote on him. That familiar warmth… that was what got to him. There was something about this quiet, domestic life with you that felt comforting. You weren’t much of a talker, but you listened to everything he said. Every word, every ramble. He wondered what it would be like if you were the one talking nonstop.
The only time he had seen it was when you mentioned baking with your mother before casually adding that she had passed away. He felt awful, trying to cheer you up when your expression dimmed.
He guessed that’s where your love language came from. So he changed the subject, told you that you should start baking again.
And you did.
The first thing you made was a bunny-shaped bun, which you shared with him. You couldn’t stop talking about your dream of opening your own bakery, and he let you ramble on.
That was probably the second time he had ever seen you talk that much.
“I’m sorry, I talked too much, didn’t I?” you laughed, setting aside your baking gloves. “Usually Joshua’s the one who listens to me. I guess I don’t do that with others.”
“Oh,” Seungcheol said, forcing a small smile. “So he’s a listener, huh? That’s nice of him.”
He didn’t want to say anything more. Because what could he even say?
He was here, watching you bake while your boyfriend wasn’t. He wondered if Joshua even knew another man was living under the same roof as you.
But he didn’t ask. It wasn’t his place.
You had the awkward tenderness of someone who had never been loved properly and had to improvise. And somehow, despite having someone else, you still found your way into his heart, without even trying.
Words didn’t matter when it came to love. He remembered a show he used to watch as a kid, Mr. Bean. He barely spoke, but he never left Teddy behind.
That’s what you were to him. Quiet, but always present. Filling the space around him without saying much.
He used to believe that happiness came from enjoying your own company. But how was he supposed to do that now? When you were the one who had touched his heart?
Sometimes, the smallest things take up the most space in your heart. Although he never planned to fall in love, it’s because of you that he decided to fall in love.
“FATES BRINGS PEOPLE TOGETHER FROM FAR APART.”
Seungcheol is a patient man. He always has been, but with you, he becomes even more careful. More attentive and more considerate.
Almost delicate.
And yet, you don’t seem to notice at all.
At first, he didn’t mean anything by it. When he first met you, he simply found himself spending time with his roommate. Then somehow, you both started talking more about small things, then about yourselves. He really tried to break it. Tried not to get attached to you.
There was something about you he couldn’t ignore. Not just because you lived together, but because you lived together, and he found himself wanting to know if you were okay. All the time.
The only thing he really knows about you is that you had a boyfriend, and that you were a physiotherapy student, working part-time somewhere downtown near your shared apartment. He was amazed that you managed to keep it up. He knew it wasn’t easy.
And yet, your life just seemed…
Peaceful.
For someone so busy, he couldn’t help but wonder how you even met your boyfriend. Like, how did it turn into something more? People always said no one is too busy for love. They make time for it. He supposed that was true.
Until one day, he noticed something. You were staring at your shoes longer than usual. Then you brushed it off, standing up like nothing had happened, ready to leave.
It only happened once, then it happened again. And again. Eventually, you started asking him questions, like what shoe brands were good for daily wear. Which, in a way, meant you were asking him to go shopping with you.
“Huh?” he looked at you, slightly dumbfounded.
“I was asking if you can help me pick out a new pair of shoes,” you said, showing him the worn-out pair you were wearing. The once clean white had faded, no longer polished. “I figured it’s time to get a new one.
In the end, he agreed to accompany you on a quick shopping trip (not date) for the rest of the evening. He didn’t think much of it at first. Still, a part of him kept wondering if this was really okay, him being out with you like this. But you had told him it was fine. It wasn’t like you were sneaking around or anything.
You were in public. You even asked why he was being such a worrywart about the two of you being seen together. He didn’t say much in return, just stayed quiet, because there was no way you were that gullible.
When Seungcheol thought about it, if he were the boyfriend… wouldn’t you just ask him to come with you instead of your roommate? He wasn’t trying to be dramatic. He was just putting himself in the boyfriend’s shoes. Of course he’d feel a little upset if his girlfriend didn’t ask for his help.
But from what he observed, you seemed completely normal about it.
You were calm. Too calm.
He didn’t want to assume that your relationship was… you know. From what he had heard from Jeonghan, Joshua was a likable guy. The kind of gentleman everyone admired. A dream, really.
And it wasn’t like your relationship with Joshua seemed strained. If anything, you sounded happy. Content. Maybe there were things he just didn’t know. Or maybe it was none of his business.
Damn it.
Why did he care so much? It was almost like he was hoping something would go wrong.
“I don’t know which one suits me,” you said suddenly, snapping him out of his thoughts. “What do you think?”
“How about this one?” he suggested, pointing at a pair of NB530s.
You shook your head. “That one’s expensive. I’m not spending all my money on that.”
“What’s your budget, then?”
You didn’t answer right away, hesitating.
Seungcheol caught onto that and didn’t push. “It’s okay. You can try a few first. We’ll figure out the price later.”
It took less than an hour for you to finally choose. But there was something he noticed. While he was at the counter, he glanced over and saw you trying on another pair. You stood in front of the mirror, turning your foot slightly, checking how they looked. It was such a small thing, but he found it… endearing.
Then, after one last look, you sighed, almost dejected. You handed them back to the staff with a quiet thank you. You clearly liked those shoes, but you didn’t buy them. Instead, when you joined him at the counter, you paid for a simpler pair, the same comfortable sneakers you had settled on earlier.
—
You both decided to take a break afterward, stopping by a café. You sat across from each other, each with your own drink.
“I was wondering,” Seungcheol started, “is it really okay for your boyfriend… for you to hang out with me?”
You sipped your mango smoothie thoughtfully. “I don’t think he minds that much. It’s not like I go out with people often anyway.”
He blinked. “So… he’s okay with it?”
You nodded. “Yeah. I rarely hang out. He probably thinks I’m just running errands—which is technically true.” You shrugged casually.
Seungcheol didn’t want to seem nosy. He just didn’t want to end up being that guy.
A homewrecker, to be exact. “Bros before hoes,” his friends always joked. It was stupid, really.
Your eyes met him again, pulling him out of his thoughts. “I meant it when I said I don’t really hang out with people,” you added. “This is actually my first time in a while… other than with Joshua.”
Now it was his turn to blink at you. “What do you mean?”
“It’s not that I don’t want to go out,” you explained. “It just costs money. So I usually don’t join—I try to save instead.”
“I get that.”
You smiled at him, relieved he didn’t find it strange. “That’s why Joshua doesn’t really mind if I go out… as long as it’s not all the time.” You paused, then added, “But he did ask about my roommate. When I told him you were a guy… he didn’t seem too happy about it.”
Seungcheol swallowed. He had seen that coming.
“I told him it was fine—you’re nice and respectful,” you continued softly. “He even offered for me to stay at his place. His mom bought him an apartment.”
You paused, absentmindedly twirling your straw. “It’s not that I don’t want to live with him… it’s just… complicated.”
There was it again, that familiar look he once knew. That quiet way you kept things to yourself.
“Joshua comes from a well-off family,” you said. “I don’t want to feel like I’m taking the easy way just because he’s my boyfriend. Even if I’m supposed to feel lucky he chose me.”
Seungcheol listened carefully. This was probably the most you had ever opened up to him. He just wished you’d do it more often, stop keeping everything bottled inside. It was hard to understand you when you hid so much.
“That’s why I brought you instead of him,” you added. “He would’ve insisted on paying.”
Seungcheol thought for a moment before replying, choosing his words carefully. “He’s your boyfriend,” he said. “If he wants to treat you well, you deserve that.”
You let out a soft laugh, shaking your head. “You wouldn’t understand. He already pays for everything whenever we go out. I can’t ask for more. It would be too much.”
“There’s no such thing as ‘too much’ when you love someone.”
You didn’t reply to him, only smiled at his words. And somehow, that smile felt… distant. Maybe you wanted to agree deep inside in your heart, but reality had a way of reminding you where you stood.
Seungcheol wouldn’t understand it. Maybe one day he would.
—
Love is an illness to a woman with many goals.
There’s no exaggeration behind that. It’s not something bitter people say after a failed relationship. The moment you experience it, you understand it, and the weight of those words hits harder than you expect.
You’ve spent your whole life longing to be seen, but you’ve also come to realize that when people look too closely, they inevitably notice the ugly part too. To be in a relationship means you have to be vulnerable with your partner, it’s normal. Yet, you’ve never really been able to do that. Not until Joshua becomes your boyfriend.
It’s not that you’re incapable of being in love. Love takes so much energy, emotion and costs a lot of sacrifice to be one. You’re not sure if you’re mentally or physically ready for all that. For someone as goal-driven as you, it was easy to fall for him. Joshua made it easier for you, he never asks for things in return. Just you, unconditionally.
To Seungcheol, you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love.
He saw you that Wednesday at the café where you worked part-time. He waited for you to finish after his gym session, just so the two of you could walk back to your shared apartment together.
When you finally closed up and said goodbye to your coworkers, you spotted him waiting under a lamppost.
He straightened up, offering you a small smile. “Hi. Ready to head back?”
You smiled back, nodding as you walked side by side. “You didn’t have to wait. You could’ve gone back earlier.”
He hummed, hands tucked into his pockets as he glanced up at the night sky. “I can’t do that. It’s dark, and I saw you were almost done. We live together, after all.”
Together.
For some reason, the word felt… wrong. As if it meant more than it should, because you already had someone.
“So, how was your day?” you asked, breaking the silence.
“It was okay,” he replied simply. Then, after a beat, “It’s my birthday today.”
You stopped in your tracks, staring at him. He turned back when he realized you weren’t beside him anymore.
“No way.”
He smiled. “Yeah. Sorry I didn’t tell you. Nothing much happened—my friends celebrated earlier at some grilled place.”
Without another word, you turned and hurried back toward the café. Seungcheol blinked in confusion at your departure. A few minutes later, you came back out, holding a small box.
“Don’t tell me…” His expression softened as you smiled.
Back at the apartment, you managed to find a spare candle from the cabinet. A small cake sat between the two of you—white frosting, strawberries on top.
Seungcheol blew out the candle, while you clapped softly. “Make a wish.”
He chuckled, clasping his hands for a brief moment before opening his eyes again. “Any heartfelt speech for me?” he teased.
You thought for a second. “I just wish for your happiness,” you said softly. “That you stay healthy… and succeed in everything you do.” You gave a small smile, and that smile alone made him want to sigh.
Something about how pure you were—it got him. It was such a simple wish, but it softened him in ways he didn’t expect. He had to remind himself that you belonged to someone else, before he got ahead of himself.
Still, he appreciated you, respected you, and admired you for simply being… you.
He reached out something beside him, a paper bag and handed it to you. You tilted your head in confusion, before peeking inside. Your mouth parted slightly, to find inside were the same pair of shoes you had tried on before, the soft butter yellow and baby blue.
“I can’t accept this—it’s your birthday…” your voice softened, your gaze flickering between him and the shoes.
Seungcheol only smiled, watching the way your fingers traced over them. “Do me a favor,” he said gently. “If you’re happy, then I’m happy too. Just take them. Think of accepting it as your gift to me.”
You looked up at him, for the first time—it felt like you were really seeing him. That smile of yours grew just a little wider. And that alone was already too much for him.
Later on, you sat on the couch, trying them on. He offered to tie the laces for you, and after a brief hesitation, you ended up letting him. As he knelt in front of you, focused on tying them, you found yourself staring at the top of his head.
“I always wondered what it would feel like to have an older brother,” you said softly. “When I look at you… it feels nice having you around. Is this what it’s like?”
Seungcheol froze just for a second. Then he continued tying the laces. “Is that so?” he said lightly. “That’s nice to hear. But my brother’s pretty dull and quiet, so… it’s not that exciting.” He looked up with a small smile.
“Really? That’s disappointing,” you laughed. “I only have a younger brother and an older sister.”
“Why does it matter so much to you?” he asked, leaning back against the couch while sitting on the floor.
You hummed thoughtfully. “Nothing, really. It’s just… nice to be taken care of. You know what I mean?”
“What about your boyfriend?” he asked. “I’m sure he takes care of you.”
You laughed softly, swinging your legs. “That’s different,” you paused for a moment before continuing. “With you, it feels… more platonic. Maybe you won’t get it. It’s like a family. You’re just… there. Always caring.”
It was hard to explain. You couldn’t exactly say that the way he cared for you felt almost like something deeper – like something safe. Something steady. It was almost close like home. Joshua was affectionate, warm, everything anyone could ask for. But Seungcheol, he cared without needing to say much. Without needing to touch.
His affection was quiet and gentle. And that made it feel even more real.
You appreciated him for that.
For you, it was easy to be transparent with him, open up a little without feeling insecure about your situation. Because he felt closer like home. Somehow, without either of you realizing it, you had already become home to each other.
“A BROKEN LOTUS ROOT IS CONNECTED BY ITS STRINGS”
If you’ve ever eaten lotus root, you’ll know that when you bite into it, thin strands still cling between the pieces. Even when it breaks, it doesn’t fully separate. People are like that too. Even after a breakup, something always lingers, an invisible thread tied between hearts.
Seungcheol liked to believe that he was connected to every person in his life by an invisible string. His friends, his family…. and there’s you. It didn’t always have to be romantic. His last relationship had been… normal. Something he thought could become serious, but it ended anyway. Then again, what had he expected from someone he met through a hookup?
That was when he realized he wanted something real. After that, he stopped fooling around. And now… he wondered if this was karma. Falling for you, unrequited. Maybe this was him tasting his own medicine, if that’s what you want to call it.
He told himself that he shouldn’t get attached. But who the fuck is he kidding? He was beyond attached at this point. You were already in his head, running through his fucking veins, settling into whatever was left of his heart – whether he likes it or not.
Seungcheol thought it was already a win that you had started opening up to him. Except that he failed to notice one thing about you. You were loyal to the bone. Everything about you made it clear that your attention belonged to one person. The man you chose, and it wasn’t him.
He wasn’t angry. This was the boundary he was supposed to respect. Still, there were things he couldn’t ignore. Like the way you struggled to open a bottle cap but never asked him for help. You didn’t say anything, but your body language made it clear. You wouldn’t let him.
Or that one Thursday night, when you were having dinner together. Your phone rang, as you excused yourself mid-meal to answer your boyfriend’s call, leaving him alone at the table. Not that he minds, your boyfriend came first. Of course he did. Other times, he would catch glimpses of you on campus with him. And there, he saw it clearly—you let Joshua open the bottle cap for you. You let him do everything.
It wasn’t about the bottle cap.
It was the fact that you made it an exception. Everything about you—your attention, your care, the way you spoke about Joshua, it was all reserved for him. Exclusive and undivided, just for him. And somehow, that drove Seungcheol insane.
Because no matter how much he tried, he simply wasn’t him.
It only got worse when he realized your boyfriend probably didn’t like him. Or at least what it felt like. There was one time Joshua came over. Seungcheol hadn’t expected it. He had just gotten back from training when he saw him in the kitchen. You and Joshua went straight into your room. The door was closed but the voices didn't stay quiet. He didn’t mean to listen, but he heard enough. You were convincing your boyfriend, telling everything was fine. That staying here with Seungcheol was okay.
That’s when it hit him. You always make him feel seen, and then, just as quickly, remind him that everything you have to give belongs to someone else. Your life revolves around Joshua, and maybe that’s what hurts the most. Not that you love someone, but that you love him so completely. You always made sure your boyfriend came first, always reassured him, always chose him.
Seungcheol decides maybe it’s time to find a new place.
—
A knock on his door, as he opens it to see you wearing a soft yellow blouse, paired with baby blue jeans. For a second, he just looks at you. He had to admit that yellow looks good on you. Too good. He pushes that thought away.
“You look lovely,” he says instead. “A date, I assume?”
You nod, smiling, holding up a blue ribbon clip. “Can you help me put this on?”
Seungcheol has to quietly suck in a breath, he takes it as you turn around. You let him. That alone feels new. He’s never really touched you before—not like this. Carefully, gently, he gathers your hair. Clips it the way you asked, slow and precise. Like it matters more than it should.
You turn back around, fingers reaching up to touch it. “Does it look okay?”
“Oh, trust me,” he said softly, smiling, “you look very, very lovely.” The way your face lit up after that, it wasn’t for him. It was for the person you were about to meet.
Watching you like this feels… strange. Like a father trying to let go of something precious. Like trying to let go of something that was never yours to begin with. He knows his feelings didn’t start as romantic. He just… liked having you around. Just appreciated you. Found you endearing. Adored you, in ways he couldn’t explain. Loved you – in the same quiet way he loves his family, his dog… the things that simply mattered, something soft, something contestant, something that doesn’t need words. He hopes his actions were enough to show it, but no matter how much he wants to do more, he knows you won’t let him. Even if you never say it out loud.
—
The rest of the night, Seungcheol spent his time snacking while watching a romcom movie, one that Jeonghan had dragged him into watching every Saturday night at his place. It’s not like he had much else to do. Just a miserable single guy, knowing you were probably enjoying your date with Joshua… maybe even staying over at his place.
He didn’t want to think about it. He really didn’t.
What he wasn’t expecting was the sound of the door opening. He blinked in confusion as he glanced over only to see you rushing in, quickly heading straight to your room.
You didn’t stay over?
His eyes lingered on your door. He hadn’t caught your expression. Were you upset? Tired? Or something else happens.
The next three days passed.And maybe it was just his imagination, but… you seemed quieter. Yes, you were quiet, but not like this. He could sense it—something was wrong. He decided not to push, probably you needed space. He just didn’t know how to bring it up without you shutting down… or worse, pulling away even more.
(Not that you’d ever snap at him but still.)
Something must have happened. With someone or… with him. So he waited. Let you come to him instead.
“The lovers are finally together. All shall be well.”
That’s what Minghao had told him once, when he asked about couples fighting. Seungcheol nearly scoffed at the memory. Of course Minghao would say something like that. His previous relationship sucks, but what can do when he decides to date a shitty person? Not every relationship works like that. Not every fight is worth fixing. He should know that.
Seungcheol sat in the living room, staring at the TV. The movie was playing but his mind wasn’t there. His eyes were distant, unfocused. He didn’t even realise you had been standing beside him.
“What are you watching?”
He flinched slightly, then looked up at you. “Oh—uh… I don’t know. Some romance movie…”
Of course he wouldn’t admit he was watching it because he felt lonely, because he felt… empty.
A moment passed. Then you started to talk. “I didn’t talk with him,” your voice was quiet, pulling your knees to your chest, sitting beside him. “I wouldn’t call it a fight. It’s just… that night—I was supposed to stay over, but his mom came by. Unexpectedly.”
Seungcheol stayed silent. He was listening carefully. That explains why you came back early, but still… the look on your face that night, it meant more than that.
“His mom didn’t look pleased,” you continued. “I mean, she was nice… but…” you paused in between, “it’s just—her expression made it obvious she wasn’t expecting her son to date someone like me. She was polite, but you could still tell…”
Seungcheol turned his head slightly, looking at you. Your expression was small and quiet. It pulled at something in his chest.
“And I accidentally met with her again at my workplace,” you continued, letting out a small breath. “We had some talk and… she told me that she loved her son so much, she hoped that whatever Joshua and I had wasn't that deep and wanted Joshua and me to just… you know.” You didn’t finish the sentence. You didn’t need to.
You buried your face into your knees. “I don’t know… it just feels like the world is against me,” you murmured. “I’m confused, Cheol.”
That look on your face. He’s seen it before, and every time—it hurts. Seungcheol wanted nothing more than to pull you into a hug.
Just once. Just enough to tell you it’ll be okay, yet he didn’t. He couldn’t give you that.
“I’m sorry…” he said quietly. “Is there anything I can do? To make it feel… less heavy?”
His voice always softened when he spoke to you, gentle in a way the world never got to see. Like you’re something fragile. In the end, you didn’t need anything grand. You just stayed there, side by side. Letting the silence fill the space between you. Just... comfortable and somehow, that was enough.
For it to feel a little less heavy.
“I WANT TO BE YOUR FAVOURITE HELLO AND YOUR HARDEST GOODBYE.”
You never noticed when he started watching you more than he should. Only that his gaze always lingered a second longer than necessary. Seungcheol isn’t a fool. He knows you’re sad. The way your shoulders slump after coming back from work. That dejected look on your face like a solemn little puppy. The way you leave your phone lying around, not even bothering to bring it back to your room.
Meals are… still the same, except that you barely eat now. Just picking on your food—so quiet and distant. And he doesn’t try to start a conversation. Not when you look like that, so he just stays there. Even if it hurts. Because seeing you like this so quiet, so… unalive without saying anything about what’s going on. It tears him.
So when he sees you come home one evening, eyes glassy, tears already brimming and then slam your door shut. He freezes at the sight. That wasn’t like you at all.
He stands there for a moment. Hesitating a bit as he stared towards your door. He knows you need space—he knows that very well, but he can’t take it anymore. He hates this. Hate seeing you like this. So small, so broken and so quiet.
It wrenches his heart.
Slowly, he walks up to your door with a soft careful knock, “...hey.” his voice is low and uncertain, “...come on. Talk to me. What’s wrong?” He leans slightly closer to the door, worry already written all over his face and then he hears it.
Your sobs, it was heavy, you were already holding it back so much. And it makes his chest tighten instantly. Whatever it is, he knows it’s bad. Really bad, because you’re never like this. You, who always seems so calm, so composed, so… peaceful. Seeing you like this does something to him. Like this sudden need to protect you – to fix it and to take it all away if he could.
And he stays there. Right outside your door until you let him in. He’s not leaving you, not this time.
It took almost two hours before he finally got an answer from you. So he decided to take things into his own hands. He turned the doorknob and stepped in, quietly placing a plate of sliced peaches on the drawer. Seeing your back turned to him made him sigh.
He sat at the edge of the bed, close enough. “Wanna talk about it?”
You sniffled. Your voice came out small, flat. “We broke up.”
Seungcheol went still. He wasn’t expecting that, but right now he didn’t want to think about anything else. Just focused on you.
“It started with a talk… then turned into small arguments… it’s not even about that, it’s just…” You slowly sat up, your hair falling over your face as you tried to gather your thoughts. Seungcheol quickly reached for the tissue box, gently dabbing your damp cheeks.
“Hey, hey… it’s okay. Take your time,” he murmured. “…you don’t have to say everything at once. Just… let it out.”
You looked up at him, lips trembling. He panicked a little at the sight of your crumpled expression. Quickly, he handed you a fork with a piece of peach.
“Slowly… I’m here, okay?”
You nodded, taking a small bite. “I don’t know… I just… I kind of saw it coming, but I didn’t expect it to end like this.”
You continued, and he listened. “I remember when my mom passed away… three days after the funeral, my sister and I argued. I was never the type to get angry easily, but… our relationship was never good. Even when our mom was still alive.”
You paused, chewing absentmindedly. “I got so mad at her… she didn’t do anything when Mom was sick. I was the one taking care of her the whole time.”
Seungcheol nodded slowly, his hand finding yours. His thumb gently brushes over your knuckles.
“We almost got into a physical fight,” you continued softly. “We were teenagers back then… I didn’t know any better. Maybe I was just holding everything in.” You let out a breath. “Our uncles had to separate us. My sister went with my aunt… and I went with my dad.”
A faint smile touched your lips. “My dad was never really expressive… but that was the first time he comforted me like that. He asked me what was wrong, and I just… broke down. Told him everything.” You exhaled softly. “Sometimes I can still feel his hand on my head… the way he comforted me. That memory alone makes me feel so…”
Seungcheol smiled gently. “How do you feel now?”
“A little better… I guess.” you shrugged.
He nodded. “Then… can I ask what’s making your heart feel so heavy?”
You hesitated at first then looked at him. His fingers still softly tracing over your hand, grounding you. So you told him.
“When your mom dies… it leaves a big hole inside you.” You placed your palm over your chest. “I still have mine here. It’s… huge.”
Seungcheol’s expression softened. He knew grief didn’t just disappear. It stays—maybe changes shape but it will always remain there.
“The grief is still there… even after ten years,” you continued. “People say I’ve moved on… but I think we just learn how to live with it.” You breathed out slowly. “All I can do is live my life without regrets. Make new memories. I know my mom is still with me… here.”
His chest tightened. He felt himself getting emotional. Sniffing slightly. Before he could think too much, he leaned forward and pulled you into a hug. When life gets too heavy, he wishes you would always come to him. Tell him everything. The bad days and the good ones too.
His arms wrapped around you gently, one hand soothing your back, the other resting protectively at your head. And for the first time, you’d let him. You leaned into him, relaxed.
“The reason we broke up…” you murmured after a while, your voice softer now. He slowly pulled back, but stayed close. “…it’s probably me.” you sighed in between. “Even though things were… okay, he told me that he and his mom talked about us.”
You swallowed. “His mom gave us the green light. But the way she said it… she mentioned he’s a one-time kind of guy,” frowning slightly, “and I don’t know… it made me think—does that mean he’s only dating me until he finds the ‘perfect’ partner his mom actually wants?”
Seungcheol listened, every word you pour out.
“I’m like that too,” you continued. “I don’t just date anyone. If I love… I give everything.” Your brows furrowed, “but even if we worked out… I don’t think his mom would ever truly accept me.” your eyes looked down on your palms, “I don’t want to be in a relationship where I have to walk on eggshells all the time.”
There’s a pause, then you continued, “My life’s already been hard enough. My family… my dad loves me.” Your voice softened again. “I don’t even want him to know I’m struggling like this.”
Lips trembled slightly. “I’m sad because… for the first time in my life, someone chose me.” A small, broken breath left from your lips, “…but I guess it was just foolish hope.”
—
Three months passed, just like that. The new year came and went. You didn’t really have any plans during the semester break. Your part-time contract had ended, and you were still considering whether to continue working there, especially with your clinical posting coming up soon.
For now, you just let it be.
Seungcheol had offered for you to join his family’s celebration. (though, notably, he didn’t invite Jeonghan, something about his whole family gushing over him.) It’s not like anything was exciting about going back to your dad’s house anyway. You’d probably just end up bed-rotting.
“Are you sure they won’t mind me coming over?” you asked, closing the car door as you glanced at his parent’s house.
“Yeah, I already told them about you,” he replied, taking your luggage out of the trunk. “Don’t worry about that pretty little head of yours.”
You followed him inside. The moment he stepped in, he was greeted warmly by his parents. And then, his mother’s gaze landed on you. Her smile paused for a moment.
“Oh.” That was the first thing she said.
You swear you could feel a sense of deja vu there, feeling it creeping in. Instinctively, you shifted slightly behind Seungcheol, avoiding her gaze.
“You didn’t tell me your friend is a girl,” his dad mused.
Seungcheol groaned immediately, grabbing both his parents and pulling them aside. You blinked, left standing there awkwardly, fiddling with your fingers.
“Okay, I can explain,” he whispered, like it was some kind of secret mission. “She’s just… going through something. She’s had a rough time lately. So—just help me make her feel comfortable, okay?”
His mother smiled knowingly. “So… you’re sure you’re just friends?”
He buried his face in his hands. “Please don’t start.”
Before anything else could happen, another voice cut in. “Oh my, it’s Cheol!” His grandmother came padding over, immediately squishing his cheeks. Seungcheol groaned in embarrassment, clearly not thrilled about being babied in front of you.
Then she turned to you, her eyes lit up instantly. “Oh my goodness!” she exclaimed, taking your hands in hers. “I never thought I’d see the day Cheol brings his lover home.”
Your eyes widened, her touch was warm and gentle. She cupped your face, brushing her fingers over your cheeks affectionately. You smiled without realizing it.
“Halmeoni!” Seungcheol whined, face flushed. “She’s not—okay, everyone, don’t make it weird. She’s staying with us for the week, so no weird questions.”
You remembered that he’s the youngest in his family. Which means, he’s the baby in the family, and you could totally see it. But more than that, it felt nice being here. The way they welcomed you, even in their own chaotic way. It felt warm like you were meant to be, like close to home.
The whole trip, his family welcomed you warmly. His mother prepared countless dishes, always making sure you ate enough more than enough. His family was loving, gentle in a way you weren’t used to. Especially his grandmother.
Now you understood where his clinginess came from. Cheol once mentioned that his mom had been expecting a baby girl but instead, it was him. It made sense, the way they adored him.
It felt… different. Back then, when it was just the two of you, Seungcheol carried this sort of macho charm. But here, that completely disappeared—replaced by something softer, boyish and loved.
And strangely, it made you feel that sense of deja vu again because Joshua was like that too. He’s someone important and precious to his mother.
You eventually let him go, not because you weren’t compatible but because you were too selfless. No matter how much he begged you to stay… you just didn’t have it in you. He was an only child, and the thought of his mother’s words stayed with you. You couldn’t bear the idea of taking him away for yourself. Like you were stealing something precious. When he asked if you ever loved him, you said yes. Because you did, but you loved yourself more. And you knew you deserved to be someone’s happiness. Someone’s precious person, not someone who had to hesitate.
That was it. Your story with him ended there.
You’ve always been alone independently. Everything should be fine. Just like it was before he ever came into your life.
The sound of water echoed softly. Seungcheol made his way down the small path toward the waterfall, careful with his steps. Then he saw you. Standing there alone.
“What are you doing here all by yourself?” he called out, approaching you as the cool breeze passed through. “My dad’s already grilling—I hope you don’t mind stuffing yourself again.”
You turned, smiling and that’s when you noticed it. His hair has got shorter with a clean cut. It suited him. “You look great,” you said. “Did you get it cut recently?”
He rubbed the back of his neck, fingers brushing against the undercut as he smiled shyly. “Really? I had to. I’ve been applying to be a trainer lately. After this trip… I might get posted somewhere for my practical.”
“Oh…” you trailed off. You didn’t expect that. “…you mentioned it before, I think.” there’s a pause. “How long?”
Seungcheol thought for a moment. "About five months.”
You nodded, quiet again. Your eyes drifted to him still standing there, hand lingering at the back of his neck.
“Do I really look okay with this?” he asked again, a little unsure. “Feels too short.”
“Yeah,” you said simply. “You looked handsome.”
His lips curved. “Really?”
“Very,” you added. “Very handsome and manly.”
That did it. His smile widened, the tips of his ears turning red. You didn’t notice it. He let out a quiet breath, trying to calm himself before he got too carried away. You really had no idea what you did to him.
“Alright,” he said finally, stepping down first and turning back to you. “Let’s head back.” He extended his hand for you.
You hesitated, just for a second.
He noticed it and smiled, soft, coaxing. “Come down, baby. I’m just making sure you don’t trip on the rocks.”
The nickname made you smile. Without thinking too much, you reached out and took his hand. Instead of just holding it, he lifted you. You stiffened slightly in his arms, caught off guard. It was quick and careful. And before you could react, he set you down gently.
“It’s dangerous,” he said casually. “Had to do that.” His hand came up resting on your head. The gesture alone felt soft and affectionate.
You swallowed. Something tight forming in your chest. Then you blinked, and started walking beside him not even realizing that his fingers had already slipped into yours. Interlaced, like it belonged there.
“WHEN I LOOK AT YOU, I SEE THE REST OF MY LIFE IN FRONT OF MY EYES.”
You heard a soft knock on the door before it slowly creaked open.
“Hi,” Seungcheol peeked in with a small smile, closing it gently behind him. “Sorry to bother you… were you about to sleep?”
You shook your head, shifting under the comforter as you sat up against the pillow. “No, you’re not bothering me. This is your room, after all… do you need something?”
He walked over, settling himself beside you on the bed. Close to you. His room had been your place for the whole week. It smelled like him. Felt like him too.
“How was dinner?” his hand found yours, like it was the most natural thing in the world, his fingers slipped between yours.
“It was nice,” you hummed, letting your hand rest in his. “I think I might gain some weight after this trip.”
“More of you to love, then.”
You smiled instantly. He always had a way with words. It was soft, effortless and almost close to dangerous. Everything he did made your heart flutter. Somewhere along this week, you had forgotten the heartbreak from three months ago.
“You should sleep,” you told him gently, still playing with your intertwined fingers. “Tomorrow’s going to be a long drive.”
“That’s exactly why I’m checking on you,” he replied.
You raised a brow. “Says the one who’s driving. Four hours isn’t a joke, you know.”
He chuckled, leaning just a little closer. “Call me ‘oppa’ first. Then maybe I’ll listen.”
“No way.”
You both laughed. It was light and easy. Like nothing in the world could touch this moment. And then it faded slowly. The laughter softened as well as the air suddenly shifted. He was still looking at you. He has been looking at you the whole time. You tried to hold his gaze but ended up looking away, suddenly shy. When did it become like this? Because when did he start looking at you like that? You never really thought about how you saw him. All you knew was, he was someone you grew to care for. Someone you chose to keep in your life.
“I really like having you by my side,” Seungcheol said quietly.
You looked at him again, and smiled softly. “...me too.”
You didn’t realize when it happened, when suddenly he was closer, much closer to you. You didn’t move. You just let him. Your fingers tightened slightly around his, breath hitched as his lashes brushed against yours. The tip of his nose touched yours.
So close. Too close.
Your heart was racing very loud and unsteady.
“I mean it,” he whispered. “I really, really like you… more than you think.”
Your eyes searched his. It was raw and honest, too real. He knew you were still healing. Still picking up pieces of yourself. And even if it took months or years, he was willing to wait.
You blinked. Trying to steady your thoughts, but that hesitation, it was there again. The same one he always sees in you. He wished you wouldn’t hold back. Just this once. Still, he didn’t pull away. He leaned in again—forehead resting against yours. So close it felt like a kiss was inevitable. You knew what this meant. So you chose to stay, but he didn’t close the distance. He just kinda stayed there. Letting the moment breathe, letting you decide.
“I like you too,” you said.
It wasn’t a confession.
Seungcheol pulled back slightly. Searching your face and he saw it. That look—the one he already knew too well. Not empty, just… not the answer he wanted. You liked him but not the way he loved you. That alone itself made his inside crack a little. He had seen this coming but walking away now would hurt more.
“Then kiss me.”
You froze. Then slowly, you leaned in just like before. Your noses brushed, lips hovered a breath away. He didn’t move, letting you take the lead. Just then you stopped. Lips barely grazed his, the soft, fleeting touch. It was not quite a kiss, not quite nothing.
It made his chest ache.
“I’m sorry, Cheol…” you whispered, lowering your gaze. “I don’t want to treat you like an option.” You looked back at him, eyes apologetic and honest. “I don’t want you to feel like I chose you just because I couldn’t have someone else. You deserve more than that.” Your voice softened, “…what we have now… I don’t want to lose it.”
Seungcheol gave you a faint smile, tired but gentle. Deep down he already knew that. He reached up, brushing your hair back, his hand trailing down to your cheek. The gesture was careful and affectionate.
“I know, baby. I know,” he murmured, resting his forehead against yours again. “I just… needed to know.” a pause. “You’re precious to me.”
His arms wrapped around you once more, holding you close and you let him. You felt it, his warmth, his scent and his love. Maybe that was the problem, you seem to incapable of accepting his love for you.
—
That morning, you and Seungcheol had breakfast prepared by his mom and grandmother. He didn’t ignore you, but he was… quiet.
The whole ride back was the same too. At least, when it was just the two of you. You kept glancing at him. Very carefully, trying to read him. You even brought it up last night, asked if he was okay. If things were okay between you. He reassured you and said it wouldn't be awkward, and claimed everything was fine. But even if he said that, his actions told a different story. He didn’t push you away, didn’t ignore you but you could see it. The silence, the way he kept to himself like he was trying to deal with it quietly on his own. It made you feel horrible.
Just like that, your clinical posting started. Days got busier and schedule got tighter. You and Seungcheol barely saw each other now even though you lived under the same roof. Still, whenever you had the chance, you ate together. It was only a small moment but familiar.
That day, you were on your way to collect your academic records. Still in your scrubs, rushing during your break when you accidentally bumped into someone. “I’m so sorry—” you quickly crouched down, gathering the papers that had scattered across the floor.
“It’s alright, I should be the one apologizing,” the other person said, handing you your dropped pen.
You looked up and recognized him. It was Jeonghan, Seungcheol’s friend. You gave him a small smile, murmuring a quiet thank you as you took your things back. You didn’t have much time, you were already in a rush. Just as you were about to leave—
“Wait.” You turned at him. “Since you’re here,” he said, pulling something out from his jacket, it seems like a pendrive. “I was actually going to return this to him, but…” he paused, then handed it to you, “I figured you could pass it to him instead. He’s leaving soon anyway.”
You took it slowly. A slight frown forming. “…what do you mean?”
Jeonghan nodded, like he just remembered. “Oh—right. You didn’t know?”
Your stomach sank.
“He’s leaving today. For his practical,” he said casually. “And after that… he’s planning to enlist.”
Your grip tightened around the object you're holding.
“…military service,” Jeonghan continued. “Pretty long too. He chose the marine department.”
Brief silence filled the air. You didn’t know what to say because you didn't know this. At all. Seungcheol never told you.
Jeonghan tilted his head slightly, watching your reaction. “I thought you knew,” he said. “You two live together, don’t you?”
You forced a small smile. “I didn’t,” pausing, “…but thank you for telling me.”
And just like that, you turned and walked faster. You needed to find him.
You hated it. You hated what you were feeling right now. The same anxiousness creeping into your chest like it would tear you apart the moment you realized you had lost something precious. You rushed back to your shared apartment, but he wasn’t there. There was no trace of him, no presence. Just an almost empty room, clean, quiet and gone. Your heart dropped.
Then you remembered. The train. He once told you where he would be posted, back in his hometown. You didn’t hesitate as you ran to the train station. Panting as you arrived, eyes scanning through the crowd. You came with nothing, just your jacket, still in your medical scrubs. The cold air bit against your skin, but you couldn’t feel it. Your fingers were numb. Your chest was louder. And then you saw him—that familiar figure, standing there.
“Choi Seungcheol!”
His head snapped toward your voice. He was both surprised and confused at your call, before he could react you were already running toward him. You crashed into him, arms wrapped tight. He stiffened for a second, caught off guard.
How could he just leave like that? Without telling you? After everything, after all the love he gave you and just walked away––leave you in the dark? What were you supposed to do if he wasn’t there anymore.
“Why didn’t you tell me you were leaving today?” your voice broke. “Jeonghan said you’re going to enlist after this—am I really that unimportant to you?”
Damn Jeonghan.
Seungcheol blinked, startled, his hands quickly finding yours. “Baby, it’s not like that— I didn’t want to… I just…” He struggled, fingers tightening slightly around yours. “After that day… I thought it would hurt less if I left sooner. Time would pass anyway.”
Your eyes softened, but it still hurts you that he didn’t tell you that.
“Are you trying to forget me?” your voice dropped, quieter now. “…is that why you didn’t tell me? Just leave and take everything with you?” Your breath trembled. “Five months… and then military—it’s going to be more than two years, Cheol.” There’s a pause in between. “How am I supposed to live if you just leave me like that?”
Your voice broke into soft sobs. He cupped your face immediately. It was firm and gentle. “No,” he said, steady. “I love you too much for that.” He swallowed, trying to find the right words. “I don’t want to leave you like this… with a broken heart.” his voice softened. “Wherever you need me, I’ll be there. As long as you’ll let me.”
The announcement echoed. His train.
Your heart tightened. Time was running out. Your fingers gripped him tighter. “Cheol…” Your voice came out fragile, barely holding together. There was so much to say, too much and not enough time. All you knew was… you wanted him.
Seungcheol smiled softly, wiping the tears from your cheeks. “I’ll still be here, remember?” He took your hand, placing it over his chest. His heartbeat was steady and warm. It only made it worse. You weren’t ready for this. Not for him to leave.
You sniffled, leaning into him as he pulled you into a hug, his hand soothing your back. Everything suddenly hit you at once. The regret, the realization and the truth.
“I love you, Cheol,” you said, voice shaking. He pulled you back, eyes searching yours. This time, it was real. “I really do… I’m sorry I didn’t realize it sooner. Not until you were leaving.”
His expression softened, he was relieved at that. Slowly, he leaned in and this time he kissed you. It was soft and gentle. Full of everything he had been holding back. And you let him, finally. When he pulled away, your noses still brushed. Very close. However, your chest still felt heavy, because he was still leaving.
“Please come back faster,” you whispered.
Seungcheol smiled faintly, resting his forehead against yours. “I will, baby.” he gave you one last soft peck. “By the time I come back… you better be doing well, okay?”
You nodded. His hand came up again, resting on your head, those familiar, gentle pats. He kissed your temple. Then, he slipped something into your hand. A folded paper, closing your fingers around it.
“Read it when you get home,” he murmured. “I don’t want you crying alone here.”
The announcement rang again. Final call.
He exhaled, reluctant. He stepped back slowly. Your fingers clung to his for a moment longer. Not wanting to let go, but eventually they slipped apart. You watched him board the train, your vision blurred with tears. As the train began to move, he watched you too. Getting smaller… further away, all alone.
“…shit,” he muttered, resting his head against the glass. “How am I supposed to leave her like that?”
And you’ll wait. And he will too, because when he comes back he knows he’s going to hold you together more than ever before.
By the time you got back to the quiet apartment, your hands slowly unfolded the paper he had given you at the train station. You were still trying to recover from the hollow feeling in your chest after his departure.
He had written you a letter. You weren’t sure if you were strong enough to read it at that moment. But you did anyway.
My lovely ____,
I’m so sorry that you had to find out this way. I sincerely hope that all the words I failed to convey to you in person will, through this letter, finally reach your heart.
When I try to approach you, it feels like a dream that slips away. What should I do?
You, who brought so much light into my life. You, who gave me so much love without making me feel lonely. You, who live in my heart.
I always find myself missing you today, tomorrow, and all the days to come. I can’t hide my growing feelings for you anymore. You have no idea how I feel every day. Sometimes I feel sick, sometimes I cry, all because of this love. I find myself holding my breath every time I look at you, as if the world has stopped. Like the passing wind even if you don’t see me, my heart always moves toward you.
Loving you is such a painful thing. These feelings can’t be emptied. But my dear, please don’t forget this great love I’ve kept only for you. It hurts me to see how comfortable you are in the dark. I just wish you would lean on me more, tell me everything your heart has been holding for so long.
Every day, I hold onto you, yet I can’t seem to let go. Deep down, I know I’m afraid. Your eyes… they look at me as if they understand my heart. Even when I try to distance myself, the memories keep calling me back no matter where I go.
Us, who never wanted to let go. Us, who leaned on each other. I don’t want to lose that bond. But at the same time, I don’t want to live a life where you’re no longer there where you’ve found your happiness, and I’m not a part of it. And that’s the moment where my footsteps stop. This isn’t the life I wanted. I wanted to be by your side forever. Don’t go and leave all my love behind. Even if it’s a little late, maybe it’s still destiny—we will meet again someday.
I hope that one day, I can love you the way I’ve always wanted to. Forgetting you is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. You are the only one for me. Wherever you are in this world, I will find my way to you.
Thank you… for giving me a love that made me feel less lonely.
Love, Cheol.
You were already breaking down, crouched in the empty, cold apartment where he no longer was. Your sobs echoed through the silence, tears falling onto the letter in your hands. You cried so hard, holding the paper close to your chest. There is nothing greater than his love for you, and you will wait with arms open. Just five months and you’ll be alright.
Love is just a word until someone comes into your life and gives it meaning.
FIN.
a/n: wow. the original ending was supposed to be a not happy one, but meh i changed my mind in the middle of it. i think i might be woozi yo. once again, thank uu for staying until the end, apples! big thanks to @ashlinxloves for witnessing my whole procrastination ride n i managed to finish it just as i expected.
PAIRING: Jester!Jeonghan x Princess!Reader
SUMMARY: You've spent your entire life hiding behind the mask of a princess, forced to perform perfection at every moment. There is a single person who see's beyond your mask, but you see beyond his too - and you don't think the jester is as harmless as everyone thinks.
WC: 6,244
AU: Royalty, Implied Magical AU
GENRE: Smut
RATING: 18+ Minors are strictly prohibited from engaging in and reading this content. It contains explicit content and any minors discovered reading or engaging with this work will be blocked immediately.
WARNINGS: Mild mentions of what's proper/what's not in a royal society, reader being frustrated and having repressed feelings of desire and arousal, sexually explicit content featuring vaginal fingering, some mild dirty talk, mild biting, mild exhibitionism (hooking up where anyone could find them), the use of pet names (love / good girl), Jeonghan being a bit of a menace, some magical ambiguity at the end re: Jeonghan, he's kinda a weird lil guy in this I don't know how to explain it, he's implied to be dangerous but he doesn't do anything necessarily scary on paper.
A/N: This is for my milestone request for @gimmegoodname! And part 8348934 of Hali doesn't know how to keep to a reasonable request word count :) Thank you jesus for landing on Jester and Jeonghan - this actually is not at all what I originally intended to write but fuck it we ball because the other idea would have taken me aprox 40k words lmfao
AN 2: This is not beta read so I’m sorry - there will definitely be mistakes! I did proof read/spelling and grammar check but I often miss a lot!
MAIN M. LIST | ASK | FOR MY MILESTONE EVENT
ORANTE PARTIES ARE PERHAPS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE RESPONSIBILITY AS A PRINCESS.
The castle's grand ballroom has been transformed into a glittering display of excess, the crystal chandeliers reflecting torchlight and dappled shadows across polished marble floors, the heavy velvet drapery covering the walls in hues of crimson and midnight blue - all of it tailored to make the inside of the room feel like something from another world.
You hate every inch of it. You hate the weight of your gown and its scratchy material, you hate how you can feel the bone stitching of the corset digging into your ribs, you hate the brittle laughter and the clink of crystal goblets, the venomous whispers behind delicate gossamer fans. Most of all, you hate the way every eye in the room seems to track your every movement, measuring you, judging you, waiting for the perfect princess to make a single mistake so they can talk about it with practiced smiles.
A bard stands at the center of the hall, his fingers dancing over the strings of a lute as he sings a soulful ballad of lovers lost in the heat of one another, of stolen touches and a kind of passion you'll never understand. You wonder what it might be like to experience something like that, to be touched by someone who wants you so badly they risk everything, to have hands on your skin that aren't bound by protocol and propriety. To do something dangerous and sinful, to have someone hold you the way those lovers in the song held each other, with urgency and desire instead of duty.
You'll never be that, of course. You are forever bound to this kingdom where the entire world is your stage, where you must remain untouched and controlled, and you're constantly expected to perform.
You're not the only one performing tonight, of course. You're halfway through a painfully boring conversation with the Lord of Coin regarding taxes when a burst of laughter cuts through the murmur of the party. Your gaze drifts against your will toward the small crowd forming near the arched windows, and though you can't see the man at the center of their attention, you know he's there.
The court jester's voice drifts toward you, mischief wrapped in pretty velvet clothes and a silly hat. You'd seen him earlier tonight, dressed in his best midnight blue velvet doublet and matching pants, little crystals stitchy to the fabric to make it look like he's lost in a midnight sky. His eyes had been filled with particularly vicious mischief when they'd landed on you, but your father had whisked you away to greet the Lady of Harvest before the fiend could slink your way.
Jeonghan is a fiend. You are perhaps the only person at court who thinks behind the practiced smiles, card tricks and juggling that there's something far more dangerous, but you've never been able to convince anyone of it. And why should anyone agree with you? Jeonghan is favored among the court for his wit, rhymes and tricks, thrilling the men and charming the women as he slides through each party like smoke, taking the shape of whatever his audience desires most.
A fresh wave of laughter erupts from his audience, brighter and more genuine than anything else you’ve heard tonight. It makes your skin itch and you turn away from the crowd, focusing back on the conversation at hand and determined not to let Jeonghan ruin your night like he does at most parties, determined to vex you and make you feel affronted and flushed and-
No.
You shove him from your mind as the conversation drags on while you sip spiced wine from your glass. As the Lord of Coin talks, you wonder what it would be like to leave this room. To go get somewhere lost in the city below. To fall into the bed of someone who would touch you like the lovers in the bard’s song, someone who smells like sandalwood and smoke and whose smile is sharp and familiar.
For now, you stay put and keep your eyes on the lord in front of you, ignoring the growing laughter coming from Jeonghan's corner. You hate that he enthralls them so - hate that even though you’re suspicious of him, he charms you in his own way, worming into your thoughts on lonely days, leading your mind astray to wonder how it is he does those tricks of his.
Your father appears suddenly, the Lord of Coin fumbling over whatever he was saying about inflation as the king puts a hand on your shoulder, grinning jovially. "Lord Hastings, forgive me, but I'm here to steal my daughter and spoil her with the fun part of the night!"
"Of course, Your Majesty!" Lord Hasting bows. "Thank you for the conversation, Your Highness."
"The gratitude is all mine, Lord Hastings," you nod, letting your father spin you away as dread knots in your stomach.
The crowd near the arched windows opens up as you approach, the members of the court bowing as you and your father approach the entertainment. Torchlight flickers on their faces, showing how flushed with delight they are as they watch the spectacle in front of them. Jeonghan stands in the middle of the, his midnight doublet fitting him perfectly as the crystals sparkle with his every movement.
Though the jester hat might look silly on anyone else, Jeonghan makes it look fashionable. His long, dark hair frames his angelic face, all sharp cheekbones and carefully sloped nose. His dark eyes find yours immediately, flashing as he grins. Your heart skips a little but you remain uneffected, staring at him as he juggles three daggers for the crowd as they ooo and ahhh at him.
You watch as the blades flash in the torchlight, each one caught cleanly while people gasp and clap. A lady nearby giggles behind her fan just as Jeonghan makes the daggers disappear into his sleeves with a quick motion. The crowd claps as he grins and bows politely, his dark eyes finding you again.
Irritation simmers, your gaze locking onto his and holding it. While everyone seems impressed, your instincts scream danger, wolf in fool’s clothing. The corner of his mouth tilts upwards as he steps toward you, the smell of his sandalwood and smoke clinging to him.
"Your Highness," he greets smoothly. "You look bored. Let me change that."
You say nothing but your father claps, his laughter booming as Jeonghan starts his performance. Cards fly from his hands in quick patterns and your attention is drawn upward as they flit through the air. He dances away from you and leans toward Lord Jeon, plucking a card from behind his ear before flicking his hand and turning it into a coin. The crowd laughs and claps as you stand there stiffly, watching as he charms his way through the nobles until he comes back toward you.
Jeonghan stops in front of you and holds out his hand, bowing slightly at the waist. The crystals on his double clink together as you stare at him, your stomach twisting when he looks up at you through his dark, silky lashes. To anyone else, the look might be reverent, but you see it for what it is - hunger.
"For the best trick tonight, I need a volunteer," he murmurs. The crowd claps excitedly and when you glance at your father, the king urges you forward, excited. “Your Highness, would you do me the honor?”
Swallowing thickly, you place your hand in Jeonghan's. His skin is warm, sending a spark of heat up your arm as he guides you toward the center of the circle where he spins you in a twirl, the skirts of your dress flaring. The lords and ladies clap, delighted and shouting how beautiful you look, how wonderful their princess is. Jeonghan’s touch lingers a moment longer than necessary before he grins and lets go, eyes glued to you as he circles you like a wolf might its prey.
When he stops, he leans close enough that you can see the silver threading in his collar and the way his sleeves are tailored to allow free movement, probably full of pockets for all of his cards and daggers and other baubles he uses for his performances. He's close enough that the sandalwood and spice makes your lashes flutter, making you think of something dark - not at all the cheery jester he claims to be.
"Try not to look so afraid," he murmurs, low enough that only you can hear him. "The court might think you're afraid of a simple card trick."
"I'm not afraid," you snap.
"No? Then why is your pulse racing?"
You grimace. Ever the observationalist, seeing far more than anyone ever dares to give him credit for.
"Do your trick, jester," you growl.
Jeonghan grins as he produces a deck of cards from one of his sleeves, fanning them out again. "Choose any card but don't show me, love."
Ignoring the casual way he uses a pet name entirely unfit for his station, you select a card from the middle of the deck and when you flip it, you see the seven of swords. You angle it away from him, eyes darting between him and the card. His eyes watch you closely, the heat of them making you fight off a shiver.
"Show the crowd, I'll look away. Cross my heart and hope to die."
You roll your eyes when he turns his back to you. The crowd leans in as you flip the card, showcasing the front to them all. They all nod excitedly, tittering behind hands and fans until you flip the card back around, holding it close to your chest and away from Jeonghan.
"Good," he says when he turns back around, tucking the deck away in one of his sleeves. "Put the card against your palm, card face down."
You follow his instructions, holding your palm out with the card face down to conceal the seven of swords. Jeonghan reaches for your hand, his fingers warm as he presses his palm on top of yours, the card firmly kept between both of your hands. You hate the way your skin responds to the contact, the way the sudden awareness of him prickles up your arm.
"Do you trust me?" he murmurs.
"Hardly."
"Clever." He guides your pressed palms upward so that you're both holding the card between you, each of your hands pressing forward with equal force. "Good girl. Keep your hand steady."
A snarl works its way to your lips at the pet name, but before you can snap at him for the impropriety, Jeonghan shuffles closer and the crowd goes quiet. You realize how far away they seem, the sound dull like it's on the other side of a bubble. Jeonghan is close though - so close you have to tilt your chin up to look up at him, his eyes glittering as they watch you.
"You're quite good at playing a dutiful princess," he notes.
"You know nothing about me."
"Don't I?" His eyes search yours, and there's something sharp in his gaze, something that cuts through the fool's mask he wears. "I know you watch everything. I know you see more than you let on. I know you're the only person in this room who looks at me and wonders what I'm really doing here."
Your heart pounds harder, the rhythm so forceful you're certain he can see it in the pulse at your throat. He's far too close and far too observant for a mere jester. The air between your palms feels charged, almost electric, and you're acutely aware of every inch of space he occupies. You want to step back, to put distance between you and whatever game he's playing, but the crowd is watching and so is the king. So you look onward, staring at him as he smirks.
"Breathe," Jeonghan says, softer now, and there's something almost gentle in his tone that makes it worse somehow. "You're holding your breath, love."
“Stop calling me that.”
"Nervous?"
You glare. "No."
His grin widens a fraction. "Liar."
The word hangs between you, intimate and dangerous. No one else speaks to you like this. No one else would dare, but Jeonghan isn't like the others at court. He refuses to be cowed by your title and your cold shoulder, protected by the silly little performance he puts on, convincing others that he's a fool. It gives him a freedom that feels threatening, and you're the only one who seems to notice.
The hand that isn't pressed against yours moves, tracing a slow circle in the air around where your palms are joined. The movement is hypnotic, and you find yourself following the movement, watching as he repeats the motion a few times. For a moment, you feel a little hazy, eyes fluttering as your thoughts grow foggy. Then, your mind sharpens again, Jeonghan’s intense gaze coming into focus.
"Picture your card," he instructs, loud enough for the crowd to hear. "Imagine exactly what it looks like - the edges, the images. The way it's shaped. The colors used, the details of the card face."
You think of the seven of swords, trying to focus on the image of it, trying to use it as an anchor against the way your pulse races. It's difficult to do so with the warmth radiating from his palm and the way his breath stirs the air between you. He's close enough that you can count every one of his eyelashes and see the way his dark eyes catch the light from the chandeliers overhead.
As you try and picture the curling red numbers on the card and blue paint of the swords, you let your eyes flit over his sleeves. His hands. His pockets. You try to work out what exactly the charade is, ready to catch him in his trickery. You always try, and you always fail, never quite able to pin down the source of the performance.
"You're thinking about the card," he says, dropping his voice again so only you can hear. "But you're also thinking about how I'm doing this. Trying to work it out. Trying to catch me." You don't answer, feeling the heat hit your chest and cheeks as you flush under being caught. Jeonghan smirks, nodding. "You also don’t like being caught. Are you afraid of what I'll see when I look at you?"
"You see nothing, jester."
"Untrue." He tilts his head slightly, studying you with an intensity that makes your skin prickle. "I see someone who's hungry to be wanted. Someone who wants to be touched like those lovers in the ballad the bard was singing, with heat and urgency and desperate desire. Someone who wishes there was a person bold enough to touch her the way a princess is never supposed to be touched. To want her not because of the crown but despite it." His eyes glint with something darker. "And I see someone who looks at me and knows exactly what I am. A wolf in fool’s clothing, right?”
You want to deny it, but the words stick in your throat. You hate that Jeonghan is right and that he sees through you as easily as you see through him. There's a part of you that's always craved this kind of understanding, someone who could look past the crown and what lies beneath, but not like this. Not from him.
Being known by Jeonghan feels like standing naked before a predator, and the worst part is that you're not entirely certain you want to cover yourself. Your chest tightens with the contradiction of it, the simultaneous ache to be truly seen and the primal need to hide from his gaze.
"Now," Jeonghan says, and his voice drops again, intimate and teasing. "I'm going to find your card without ever touching the deck again. Without you saying a word." He leans in, just slightly, and you can feel the whisper of his breath against your temple, warm and deliberate. Your skin tingles where it touches. "Would you like to know how?"
You can't answer. Your throat has gone tight, and you're frozen there, caught between the urge to pull away and the strange, unwanted pull that keeps you rooted in place.
"I'm going to read your mind," he murmurs, and his lips are so close to your ear now that you feel each word as much as hear it. "I'm going to look into those careful, guarded eyes and see exactly what else you're hiding."
Your hands are shaking now, both of them, and you know he can see it. The crowd can probably see it too, but they likely think it's part of the act, part of the performance. They don't know that your heart is hammering so hard it hurts, that every nerve in your body is screaming at you to move, to step back, to break whatever spell he's weaving.
"It's the seven of swords," Jeonghan says, and his voice is soft enough to raise the hair on your arms.
Your eyes widen before you can stop yourself, before you can school your expression into something more controlled. The reaction is instinctive, damning, and you see the exact moment he registers it. See the satisfaction that flickers across his face.
"There it is," he murmurs, so quietly that you almost don't hear it over the blood rushing in your ears. "That's what I wanted to see."
Suddenly he steps back, and the loss of his proximity should be a relief but instead feels like an absence. His hand that was mirroring yours drops away to reveal that the card that was pressed between your palms is no longer there. You frown, mouth falling open slightly as he reaches toward your face. You go still as his fingers brush the edge of your jaw, feather-light and deliberate. It's barely contact at all, the barest whisper of his fingertips against you, but you feel it everywhere.
When he pulls his hand away, he's holding a card between two fingers, flicking it to show you the seven of swords. The crowd erupts in applause and delighted exclamations, the sound washing over you while you stare at him. You want to know how he did it, to know what you missed. Had his whispers distracted you from when he placed it there? Was it a trick of the light?
"Your Highness," Jeonghan says, and his voice is pitched for the crowd now, all performance and charm. He bows deeply, flourishing the card. "Thank you for your assistance."
When his eyes meet yours again, they tell a different story. They say he knows exactly what effect he's had on you. That he planned it, wanted it, enjoyed watching you unravel. It makes you step back, putting necessary distance between you as your heart hammers, your pulse deceiving you.
You excuse yourself as soon as the opportunity presents itself, your father turning to another lord as he laughs about something and the crowd pressing around Jeonghan, cutting him off from you. No one notices when you slip away from the gathered nobles, picking up the skirts of your dress as you rush for the exit, skin overheating.
Cool night air washes over you as you step into the gardens and away from all the noise and eyes. The sound of the ballroom has long since faded behind you, replaced by the gentle rustle of leaves and the soft trickle of water from the fountain somewhere deeper in the garden. You inhale deeply, letting the scent of roses and night-blooming jasmine fill your lungs, trying to steady the frantic beating of your heart.
The gardens are empty. Everyone is inside, drinking and dancing and watching Jeonghan perform his tricks. Out here, there's only moonlight filtering through the branches overhead, casting everything in silver and shadow. The paths wind between tall hedges and rose bushes, their blooms pale in the darkness. Your footsteps are quiet on the stone walkway as you move deeper into the maze, away from the ballroom, away from the noise and the eyes and the suffocating weight of your crown.
You walk without direction, letting your feet carry you past marble statues and flowering vines that climb the garden walls. The moonlight catches on the petals of white roses, making them glow like ghosts. Everything is still and quiet, peaceful in a way the ballroom could never be.
Out here, you can think. Out here, you can try to make sense of what just happened.
Except you can't make sense of it. Can't explain why Jeonghan's proximity affected you so deeply, why his whispered words felt like they were carving themselves into your skin, why the loss of his touch left you aching in ways you don't want to examine. You barely know him. You don't trust him. And yet-
"Running away, Your Highness?"
You spin around, heart leaping into your throat to see Jeonghan standing in the middle of the path behind you as though he's materialized from the shadows themselves. His little hat is nowhere to be found, dressed only in the velvet outfit with crystals glittering like stars. The moonlight above catches in his dark hair, turning it silver at the edges. His eyes gleam, and you become hyperaware of the unnatural quiet of his presence.
"I needed air," you say, trying to keep your voice steady.
"Mm." Jeonghan takes a step closer, his movements fluid and unhurried. "Or you needed to escape me."
You don't answer - can't answer, because he's right and you both know it. He moves closer still, slow and deliberate, and you suddenly feel like he's a wolf giving the sheep time to run if it wanted to. You don't run, your feet planted to the stone path even as your pulse hammers in your throat, even as every instinct screams that you should walk away.
"You know," Jeonghan says conversationally, stopping just within arm's reach, "most people can't wait to be near me. They laugh at my jokes, beg for my tricks, hang on my every word." His head tilts slightly, studying you. "But you? You look at me like I'm something dangerous."
"You are dangerous," you say before you can stop yourself. “Even if I can’t prove it.”
His smile is slow and devastating. "Yes. I am."
The admission should frighten you. Instead, it sends heat curling through your belly, making your breath catch in your chest. He's standing close enough now that you can see the way the moonlight plays across his features. He's beautiful, with a sharp jawline and elegant nose, the curve of his mouth full and dangerous, the kind of beauty that bards say is dangerous, luring people into the spider’s web.
"But that's not why you ran," Jeonghan continues.
"It's not?"
He shakes his head. "You ran because of what I said in there. Because I saw through you, and you didn't like it."
"You don't know anything about me."
He takes another step, and now he's close enough that you can feel the warmth radiating from him, can see the way his gaze travels deliberately over your face, your throat, the rapid rise and fall of your chest.
"I already proved that isn't true, love."
Your breath catches. Heat floods your cheeks, your chest, spreading through your entire body. "You're far too presumptuous and entirely impromper."
"I'm observant."His eyes meet yours, and there's something raw in them now, something that makes your stomach flip. "And I know you felt it too. In the ballroom, when I was close to you. The way your breath changed. The way you leaned toward me even as you tried to pull away. The way you're looking at me right now, like you can't decide if you want to run or-"
"Or what, jester?" You demand, huffing. "If you know me so well, just say it."
Jeonghan's smile turns predatory. "Or if you want to stay right here and let me show you what you desire, no matter how improper it is."
Your heart is pounding so hard you're certain he can hear it. "You wouldn't dare."
"Wouldn't I?" He takes one more step, closing the distance until you can feel his breath against your lips, until you're backed against the rough bark of a tree you didn't realize was behind you. "I'm not afraid of your crown, love. I'm not afraid of what anyone would say or do. I'm not afraid of you."
The words send a thrill down your spine that you absolutely should not feel. His hand comes up, not touching you but hovering just beside your face, close enough that you can feel the heat of his palm against your cheek. You grit your teeth, refusing to lean into the hand the way you want to, refusing to give him the satisfaction again tonight.
"Why risk it, then?" You ask. "Only a fool would."
"I am a fool," he agrees. "Let me show you how foolish I am. Let me show you what it's like to be touched and desired. Let me show you what I've wanted to do since the moment I've met you and how I want to make you come undone. Let me make you lose all that polished control you loathe so much."
You should say no. Should push him away. Should remember every reason this is a terrible idea. But your body isn't listening to your mind, and you find yourself leaning toward him, drawing by the magnetic pull you've been fighting all evening.
"What do you say," he asks, hand coming to cradle your face and tilt it upward until you're looking at him with half-lidded eyes. "Do you want your desires answered?"
You lick your lips and his eyes track the movement, pupils expanding. Swallowing dryly, you give the shallowest nod, damning yourself to desire, to the feeling of being wanted and seen.
It's all he needs. Jeonghan's eyes darken, and then his mouth is on yours and the world narrows to just the heat of his lips, the press of his body as he crowds you back against the tree, the rough bark catching on the fabric of your gown. He kisses you like he's starving for it, deep and demanding, his tongue sliding against yours in a way that makes your knees weak.
You gasp into his mouth and he swallows the sound, one hand tangling in your hair while the other grips your hip hard enough to bruise. The kiss is nothing like you imagined. It's not gentle or reverent or careful, but instead it’s consuming, devastating, the kind of kiss that you never knew existed.
He tastes like wine and something darker, something that makes you want more even as your lungs burn for air. His teeth catch your lower lip and you whimper, your hands coming up to clutch at his shoulders, feeling the lean muscle beneath the fabric of his costume.
"I've wanted this for so long," Jeonghan murmurs against your mouth, then trails his lips down your jaw to your throat. "Wanted you. Do you know how difficult it was to keep my hands to myself during that trick? To stand so close and not touch you the way I really wanted to?"
His teeth graze your pulse point and you can't stop the sound that escapes you, half gasp, half moan. He makes a satisfied noise low in his throat, then his hand slides from your hip to your thigh, gathering the heavy fabric of your gown and pulling it up as you pant against the tree, your head digging into the bark.
"Tell me to stop," he says, but his fingers are already tracing the inside of your thigh, moving higher. "Tell me you don't want this. Tell me all my chasing and teasing and prodding is for nothing and that I should leave."
“I can’t.”
"Fuck," Jeonghan breathes against your throat, and the crude word from his elegant mouth sends another wave of heat through you.
His fingers find the edge of your undergarments and he pulls them aside with deliberate slowness, exposing you to the cool night air. When his fingers press against you directly, finding you already slick, you bite down on your lip to keep from crying out. The gardens are secluded and shadowed, but not so far from the ballroom that sound wouldn't carry.
"Don't," Jeonghan says, his free hand coming up to pull your lip from between your teeth. "I want to hear you. Want to know exactly what I'm doing to you. Want to hear every sound you make when I touch you like this."
His fingers slip between your slick folds and you do cry out then, unable to stop yourself. Your hands tighten on his shoulders, nails digging in through the fabric of his costume, and he groans like your pleasure is his own. You feel a shiver go through him and you realize he’s just as affected by you as you are by him and it makes the heat even worse, the knowledge that he wants you this badly turning your blood to fire.
"So wet," he murmurs, his fingers sliding through your folds, exploring you with maddening slowness. "So perfect. Is this what you were thinking about during the bard's song? Someone touching you like this? Making you fall apart?"
You can't answer. Can't form words. All you can do is gasp as his fingers circle your clit with devastating precision, sending sparks of pleasure shooting through your entire body. Your legs turn molten and Jeonghan pins you against the tree with his hips, sliding one of his knees between your legs to keep you pried open for his hand.
"Answer me," Jeonghan demands. "Tell me what you were thinking about."
"Yes," you manage, the word coming out broken. "Yes, I was thinking about being touched."
His fingers press harder, moving in tight circles that make your vision blur. His fingers slide lower, teasing your entrance, and you can feel how wet you are, your entrance clenching around nothing as his fingers trace laze circles where you need him most, your hips twitching.
"I'm going to give you exactly what you want," he promises. "Going to make you come so hard you see stars.
He slides one finger inside you and you cry out, your back arching off the tree. He's watching your face with an intensity that should make you self-conscious, but you're too far gone to care, too lost in the sensation of his finger moving inside you, curling just right, finding spots that make you shake.
It feels so good - better than you imagined, even. Jeonghan is precise, leaning forward to leave bite marks and kitten licks up and down your neck as he works you slowly, finger pressing against your front wall in a way that sends you squirming against him. Your breath comes out in short, quick gasps, sweat gathering at the back of your neck as he fucks you with his finger, the wet press of his hand maddening.
"Look at you," Jeonghan murmurs, his voice rough with desire. "So beautiful like this. So desperate. I want to see you fall apart. Want to see your face when you come."
He adds a second finger and you whimper, your hands sliding from his shoulders to grip his arms, needing something to hold onto. The stretch is perfect, overwhelming, and when he curls his fingers inside you while his thumb finds your clit, you nearly sob, rolling your hips forward into his hand, thighs trembling as you clench down on his fingers.
"You're so tight," Jeonghan continues, his voice a dark purr in your ear. "So perfect around my fingers. I can feel how close you are. Can feel you clenching around me. Do you want to come, love? Do you want me to make you fall apart right here in the garden where anyone could find us?"
The thought should horrify you. Instead, it sends another wave of heat through you, making you clench harder around his fingers. You nod desperately, squeezing your eyes shut as your cunt throbs around his fingers and you writhe against the tree.
"You like that," he says, and you can hear the smile in his voice. "Like the danger of it. Like knowing that you're supposed to be in there playing princess while you're out here letting the court jester play with this pretty pussy."
His words are filthy and crude, and they shouldn't affect you the way they do, but combined with the movement of his fingers, the pressure of his thumb on your clit, the heat of his body pressed against yours, you feel overwhelmed and strung out, the feeling low in your stomach coiling and coiling and coiling until you're babbling and squirming and squeezing your eyes shut.
"Please," you gasp, and you're not even sure what you're begging for.
"I know what you need." His fingers move faster, harder, curling inside you with devastating precision. "You need to let go. Need to stop thinking and just feel. Need someone to take control so you don't have to be perfect for once in your life."
His thumb presses harder against your clit, circling in tight, relentless patterns, and you can feel the pleasure building to an impossible peak. Your thighs are shaking, your breath coming in desperate gasps. Jeonghan invades your senses - the smell of him, the heat of him, the way his teeth scrape against your neck, the way his hair tickles against your skin.
"You're mine right now," Jeonghan growls. "Not a princess. Not a performance. Just mine. Say it."
"Yours," you gasp. "I'm yours."
"Good girl. Now come for me. Let me feel it. Let me watch you fall apart."
His fingers curl one more time, hitting that perfect spot inside you while his thumb works your clit, and the orgasm crashes over you like a wave. You cry out, unable to stop yourself, your body convulsing against the tree as pleasure floods through you. You clench around his hand, throbbing as your body shakes until you feel like you can't breathe.
Jeonghan works you through it, his fingers never stopping, drawing out your orgasm until you're boneless and gasping and oversensitive. He's murmuring praise in your ear now - how beautiful you are, how perfect, how he wants to do this again and again until you can't remember your own name - and it makes you dizzy, feeling like you're drunk off of him alone.
Finally, the waves subside and Jeonghan withdraws his hand slowly. You feel the loss of him like an ache, your legs still trembling and barely holding you up. He brings his fingers to his mouth, and you watch through hazy eyes as he licks them clean, tasting you. The sight sends another pulse of heat through you despite your exhaustion.
"Delicious," he murmurs, his eyes dark and satisfied. "Even better than I imagined."
Reality begins to seep back in slowly. The cool night air on your heated skin. The distant sounds of the party still going on inside. The rough bark of the tree against your back. What you've just done, and who you've done it with.
You should feel ashamed. Should feel horrified. Should be scrambling to fix your dress and run back to the safety of the ballroom. You don't. You feel satisfied and boneless and strangely alive all at once, like you've finally done something that feels real instead of the pretty performance.
When you look up at Jeonghan, you see him watching you, his expression unreadable in the shadow of the tree. The breeze makes the leaves dance, kissing your cooling skin as his hand comes up to cup your face, thumb brushing across your cheek with surprising gentleness.
"Regrets?" He asks, voices soft as the smoke that clings to him.
You should say yes and that this was a mistake, that it can never happen again and that you need to return to the ballroom and pretend this never happened. You should remind him that this is improper and unacceptable. Yet instead, you find yourself leaning into his touch, lashes fluttering.
"No," you admit. "No regrets."
Something like satisfaction shifts in his gaze, and he leans in and kisses you again. This time it's different - softer and slower, less consuming and more like he's savoring the taste and feel of your lips against his. You kiss him back, your hands sliding up his chest, feeling the crystals click against your skin as his heart pounds beneath your palms.
When he finally pulls back, you're both breathing hard again, and your mind is spinning with questions you're not sure you want answered.
"How did you do it?" you ask suddenly.
Jeonghan tilts his head, a small smile playing at his lips. "Do what?"
"The card trick. In the ballroom."
His smile widens, and there's something dangerous in it now."I already told you. I read your mind."
You shake your head, confusion and disbelief warring inside you. "That would make you something magical. Not just a jester with clever tricks."
"Yes," Jeonghan agrees, his eyes gleaming in the moonlight. "It would."
The implication of his words hits you like a physical blow. Your breath catches, your mind racing through everything you know about him, everything you've seen, the way he seems to move through the world like something other. Like something more.
He's grinning now, watching the realization dawn across your face, and then he's kissing you again, harder this time, more possessive, like he's claiming you. Like he knows exactly what he's revealed and doesn't care. When he pulls back, his lips are still close enough that you can feel his breath against your mouth.
"You thought it yourself earlier, didn’t you?" he murmurs, teeth catching your bottom lip sharply. "I'm a wolf in fools' clothing."
SKYE's reaction to Jeonghan's discharge from mandatory service:
(Link to Skye's Masterlist)
SEVENTEEN 14th member AU~
Genre: fluff!!
DISCLAIMER: Just a quick heads-up before you dive in! This is purely a work of fanfiction. Everything you read here is made up, and none of this reflects the actual lives or personalities of the idols involved.
I spent a lot of time writing this, so please do not steal my work; Reposting, translating, or copying this story without permission is strictly prohibited. If you see this story anywhere else, please report it.
Enjoy the story!
Skye couldn’t sit still on her seat. She was finally going to meet Jeonghan after almost 1.5 years. Joshua reached out and tried to calm her down but honestly, he understood her nerves. Jeonghan had been released yesterday and today Skye and him were flying back from Paris to Korea.
Now one might wonder why Skye was meeting Jeonghan after such a long gap since the 2nd oldest member of Seventeen had opted for social service due to his injuries and had been often found cheering for the group activities. But Skye had gone on a self-declared hiatus soon after the conclusion of the 2025 Caratland in March. When Jeonghan started his service, Skye had felt devastated to realize that this was just the start and now one by one she would have to temporarily bid goodbye to 8 more members sooner or later. She hadn’t been able to take that well emotionally. It might seem a little childish to peoplr outside the group but her members understood when after a long time of keeping to herself, Skye finally went up to them and told them her decision of temporary hiatus. Thay had witnessed her struggling for the past few months but gave her space so that she could come in terms with herself. So, when Skye had told them that she wanted to take a break from group schedules and go back to her homeland to finish her college studies, all the members had respected and supported her in her decision.
In early 2025, Skye left South Korea along with her manager Joy and went back to her parents. She did stay in contact with the group as much as possible but it was mostly through texts since her studies kept her busy while the members had their own schedules. But in between her studies, Skye found herself missing her life as Seventeen. So, she had gone back to Korea in September 2025 and talked to her company about her wish to start working on her own album. She would be working remotely with Bumzu and other producers, including some back in her home country. She came back from Korea right after when Hoshi and Woozi enlisted back-to-back and busied herself in her studies and making music. When the notice of contract renewal came, she was sure of one thing…she wanted to continue living her life with her members by her side. So, it was an easy yes for her.
But safe to say she hadn’t been able to meet Jeonghan since then. The day Jeonghan enlisted, Skye hadn’t been able to see him off because she was out of Korea for her appearance in the New York fashion week for the luxury brand, she was the ambassador of. This time during Jeonghan’s release, again both her and Joshua had to be present in Paris for the Paris fashion week and for the ‘UNESCO x SEVENTEEN: Celebrating Youth, Creativity, and Well-Being Together’ event. So, she had been only able to congratulate Jeonghan through text and promised him to pay a visit soon after she reached Korea…the older male had only replied with a wink. Joshua was the only one who had been a witness to how impatient she was to land in Seoul.
“Shua…can we pleaaase drop by Hannie’s dorm? Please…Joy has just checked with his manager and he will be staying at home the day we reach Korea…please…we can surprise him?” Skye had asked Shua with pleading eyes as they settled into their seats in the plane.
Shua had agreed and nodded with a smile. He was amazed at the girl's energy though. While he was dead-ass tired after attending events back-to-back and had opted to stay back in hotel to rest after the events were finally over, the younger girl had ventured out saying she wanted to go see the Eiffel tower last night. But he agreed since this meant that he could also meet his same age friend and congratulate him on his release from the mandatory service.
“We can, Dee...but aren’t you exhausted?”, he still asked.
She shrugged him off. Yes, she was feeling the tiredness creep up her bones but she had priorities. But all her plans of surprising the older male were out of the window since she fell asleep after fighting to stay awake for the first 10 hours in the plane. Skye had drifted into dreamland during the last 3 hours of the flight and her manager almost had to drag her out to the car with the help of Shua after they reached landed in Korea. Joshua and Skye’s house, although not near each other, fell in the same route and therefore they had decided to take the same ride back from the airport. But Shua and the two managers had other plans after the girl fell asleep.
In the car, as Skye snuggled into her neck pillow and wrapped the blanket around herself tighter, Shua motioned to Joy who winked back to him in return.
When Skye finally woke up, the room was dark, only the glowing red fonts of the digital clock on the doorway blinking the time 20:39. When she tried to search for her phone, that was nowhere to be found. So, she made her way out into the hallway which was also eerily dark. This was definitely not her own apartment. “So, where am I?”, Skye wandered. No sooner she was out of the room than a hand came in and covered her eyes. Skye instantly elbowed the person as hard as she could and sprinted away from them.
“Oww…this is how you greet your brother you haven’t seen in over a year?”, a voice too familiar rang out and the lights came back up. Skye’s face looked like a deer caught in the headlights and Joshua who was standing by the switchboard was losing his mind laughing.
“H-how did I end up at your flat?”, she gasped out as she looked alternately between the two older vocal unit members.
Jeonghan’s expression was that of betrayal but his mouth was twitching as he tried to keep his face from breaking into his characteristic mischievous smile.
“Well, I guess you missed me so much that you unknowingly teleported from the airplane right into my apartment.”, Jeonghan said with a smirk.
Skye wordlessly sprinted forward crushing him in a hug.
“Now that’s more like the grand welcome I expected…”, said Jeonghan as he leaned into her embrace.
“Thank me and Joy later…”, Joshua remarked from the back. It wasn’t clear who he addressed but Jeonghan smiled and nodded in response.
Skye slightly loosened her arms and looked up. Her eyes locked with Jeonghan. The latter was slightly taken aback when he saw the glossy eyes of younger girl. Skye didn’t realise when her eyes had watered up and when the tears had started rolling down. However, Jeonghan knew her well enough…she was sensitive…specially over persons she held close to her heart. Joshua had also taken a hint and closed the distance.
“Shouldn’t you be happy now? You promised me you won’t cry when I came back…”, Jeonghan said in a slightly whiny tone like that of a child.
Skye clearly remembered her own words. She had indeed promised that on the day before Jeonghan enlisted. But now she didn’t have control over herself. Staying away from the members she cherished more than anyone for a year had taken a toll on her emotionally but she hadn’t let it show over all the video calls they had had in the past year. Moreover, thanks to the time diffrences an Jeonghan's service timings, her contat with the second oldest had been closer to none. She wordlessly pulled both Joshua and Jeonghan into a tighter embrace and stuffed her face in between the older males. Both the boys hugged her tighter in response.
“Okay…you can cry as long as you remember your other promise…’, Jeonghan continued in a teasing tone.
“And what was that again?”, this time Joshua asked.
“She promised to bake me her famous orange cake…”
“Did I?”, Skye said in a muffled voice as her face was still ensconced between the two boys.
The boys smiled, relieved to hear the girl’s response on their attempts at lightening the mood.
“Hawww…”, Jeonghan gasped with a pout, pulling away from her and Skye leaned back towards Joshua with a mischievous expression on her face. “Shua take her back… I cannot host people who forgets their promises.”
“Okay…okay…’, Skye surrendered. “I’ll make you some if you buy me the ingredients…I cannot make a whole cake out of thin air…can I?”
“Then let’s order in?”, Joshua suggested.
“Nope…we should go to the convenience store…I feel like haven’t been in one of those in ages…”, Skye complained.
“That’s because you haven’t been here in ages…”, Joshua pointed out.
“Well…if you two are up for it, I have no issues.”, Jeonghan replied. “We can also pick something up for dinner…”
“Unless Joshua wants to cook…?”, Skye pepped in a playful tone. The said man shot him a glare.
“I am not doing anything tonight… I am dead tired…”
As the three of them made their way out of Jeonghan’s dorm, Skye clung on to Jeonghan’s arms.
“You have gotten thinner, Hannie”, she said.
“Good thing then that you are back to feed me your delicious desserts and fluff me up again!!”, Jeonghan said, booping her nose.
Sky sighed contentedly. She was glad she was finally back among her best friends just when they had started to come back again. Yes, it would take SEVENTEEN longer to re-unite as 13 again, but they had promised their fans and now she would wait alongside their CARATs until her 13 precious diamonds were back by her side again.
Author's note: I wanted to post this on the day of Hannie's return but so many things got in the way and I didn't feel like writinh at all. But I did end up writing the whole thing and here it is. Lemme know if y'all like it. I am so glad Jeonghan is finally back to us!!
Meet SKYE, the 14th member of Seventeen who joined them in some months after their 4th anniversary in 2019.
Please note that SKYE has no particular face claim & all images used are randomly fished from pinterest or instagram purely to match the vibes; picture her however you want...
Around 50 days till Hannie comes back...I still remember how I was almost bawling within a public bus when he posted on Weverse the day before his enlistment ...damn I survived ㅠㅠ
making an early post since Monday is a a full day:)
Drive me Crazy by @jakedustry
Tumblr. Pure effervescent enrichment. Old internet energy. Home of the Reblogs. All the art you never knew you needed. All the fandoms you c
[Synopsis: There isn’t anything Kim Mingyu can come back home to, no one waiting for him at night when he gets off his shift, so when he finally takes a few days off, his plan consists of two simple things: drinks and sleep. But his world takes a spin around when he stumbles upon a group of officers arresting a young lady begging for help after a night out. If Mingyu has one weakness, it’s people in distress, especially if it involves a child in need.]
Fancast by @belovedgyu
💬 20 🔁 154 ❤️ 809 · "FAN"cast || kim mingyu · ⚬ pairing: actor! kim mingyu x author fem! reader
⚬ word count: 15.7k
⚬ warnings: (pls rea
[Synopsis: as a serious author who has been trying to earn a serious repute in the industry, romance rumors with a superstar is never really a good news. and when the said superstar leans into those rumors, it gets even more annoying to deal with - especially when you have to shoot a movie with him!]
Scripts by @thedensworld
💬 10 🔁 79 ❤️ 769 · Scripts | K. Mg · Pairing: Director Mingyu! x Screenwriter Reader!
Genre: Film Industry Au!
Type: Slowburn, Romance,
[Synopsis: After the failure of his last movie, Mingyu’s only hope for a comeback was you, the best screenwriter.]
Silent Mode by @minniesfiles
💬 14 🔁 151 ❤️ 1554 · SILENT MODE · You never thought your insecurities would’ve led you to the near destruction of your own relationship.
[Synopsis: You never thought your insecurities would’ve led you to the near destruction of your own relationship. ]
the bare minimum by @slut4kwon
💬 20 🔁 286 ❤️ 2657 · the bare minimum — k.mg · pairing: kim mingyu x fem! reader
synopsis: your dating history had been nothing but bad s
[Synopsis: your dating history had been nothing but bad sex and even worse goodbyes. he showed you a patience and certainty that silenced every doubt, proving that you weren’t hard to love; you’d been loved by him all along.]
untitled by @wonwunss
💬 11 🔁 339 ❤️ 3398 · –ᝰ.ᐟ✮ You were never subtle about loving Mingyu. And he was never ready to love you back—Not until you stopped trying
[Synopsis: It wasn’t one grand gesture that changed everything. It was the way your silence hurt more than your love ever did. And maybe that’s how Mingyu finally realized… he lost something worth chasing.]
Leave a message by @haologram
💬 10 🔁 227 ❤️ 1682 · leave a message ᯓ k.mg [m] · — synopsis: you and mingyu have been broken up for a year, and yes, it was over somethi
[Synopsis: you and mingyu have been broken up for a year, and yes, it was over something as stupid and trivial as you'd imagine - something where nuance is important. will you thrown caution to the wind when he's calling you drunk from halfway across the world to beg for you back?]
Wish you would by @wqnwoos
Tumblr is a place to express yourself, discover yourself, and bond over the stuff you love. It's where your interests connect you with your
[Synopsis: You and Kim Mingyu have always walked that thin line between professional respect and something dangerously close to flirtation, but neither of you have ever quite slipped. So covering his newest case should be routine — but suddenly, keeping things professional isn't as easy as it used to be. ]
a bridesmaid's to do list by @81evermore
💬 10 🔁 82 ❤️ 1104 · a bridesmaid's to do list, kim mingyu · When your best friend Jihyo is getting married, you're nothing less than thril
[Synopsis: When your best friend Jihyo is getting married, you're nothing less than thrilled. Your excitement dies a little when you find out that your ex will be attending. Luckily, your friends have already found a solution!]
Sins and Sundays by @memoiresofaneternaldreamer
💬 21 🔁 55 ❤️ 440 · Sins and Sundays · Pairing: Lord! Mingyu x Reverend’s daughter! F. Reader
Themes: Smut | Angst | Regency AU | Opposite
[Synopsis: Smut | Angst | Regency AU | Opposites Attract | Rake vs Saint | Forbidden Romance | Religious Control | Found Family | Inspired by 'Bridgerton' | T.W.: mentions of arranged marriage, punishments, public humiliation, physical violence, whipping, abuse of power]
Some DK /Seokmin x Reader fic recs to mark the day!!
On the Nose by @starlightkyeom
Tumblr is a place to express yourself, discover yourself, and bond over the stuff you love. It's where your interests connect you with your
[Synopsis: where your boyfriend suggests testing out a theory from a comment on a video ]
Just "friends" by @cherrynpink
💬 7 🔁 175 ❤️ 2190 · just "friends" · pairing: situationship!dokyeom x f!reader
genre: situationship to lovers, slight angst, smut (with a
[Synopsis: situationship!dokyeom x f!reader]
Forever and always by @slut4kwon
💬 3 🔁 58 ❤️ 694 · forever and always — l.sm · pairing: lee seokmin x fem! reader
synopsis: being married to seokmin feels like proof that
[Synopsis : being married to seokmin feels like proof that love only grows heavier with time. even after several years, he still looks at you like he's stunned you exist. still stumbles over his words when you hold his gaze for too long. still needs you in that ways words will never be enough for. ]
prom night by @haologram
💬 2 🔁 72 ❤️ 600 · prom night ❆ l.sm [m] · 𝜗ৎ part 4/17 of happy haolidays with haologram!
— synopsis: ten years after being crowned prom
[Synopsis: ten years after being crowned prom queen and thinking you'd left your small town in your rearview, you tuck your tail between your legs and come right back home...only to find out that the boy that took you to prom has been waiting patiently for your return.]
Never forget a pretty face by @miniseokminnies
💬 0 🔁 39 ❤️ 137 · never forget a pretty face —- l.sm
✺ pairing: lee seokmin x fem!reader
✺theme: 1920s au, mafia au, strangers to lovers
💬 13 🔁 132 ❤️ 1316 · where the hell is my husband?! ᯓᡣ𐭩 lsm · pairing: coworker! lee seokmin x f!reader
wc: 7.9k
synopsis: your coworker
[Synopsis: your coworker was extremely oblivious. he was literal husband material, bringing you coffee every morning, walking you to your car in the rain simply because that’s who he was as a person. you made every attempt to show how downbad you were for him, yet he thought you were his adorable coworker whom he hung out with. you needed this man to wife you up immediately and you wouldn’t stop until he finally took a hint. ]
Burning Bridges by @bluehoodiewoozi
💬 5 🔁 80 ❤️ 463 · Burning Bridges · F1 driver!Lee Seokmin x fem!Reader (x ex!Choi Seungcheol)
Genre: big angst. fluff. reader overcomes a
[Synopsis: [Formula 1 AU] When your fiancé chooses his Formula 1 career over you and makes it everyone’s problem, his teammate Seokmin is not about to just sit back and watch.]
Beat ny neat by @nothoughtsjustfic
💬 0 🔁 84 ❤️ 288 · Beat My Meat - L.SM · 🥩Who: Lee Seokmin (Seventeen) x female reader
🥩What: Friends to lovers. Fluff. Humour. A lil bit o
[Synopsis: As it turns out, the term “beat my meat” does not mean what Seokmin thinks it does.]
[Synopsis: : 8 months after the world fell a chance encounter across the clearing flipped everything you’ve come to know upside down. for the second time since the end. ]
💬 1 🔁 70 ❤️ 558 · into the depths — chs · summary: 8 months after the world fell a chance encounter across the clearing flipped everything
A Christmas Proposal by @saythenametotheworld
[Synopsis: You told one tiny lie about being engaged to Vernon. Now you’re spending Christmas with his entire family. Faking it should be a walk in the park, except Vernon is playing the perfect boyfriend a little too well, and it’s throwing you off your game.]
💬 15 🔁 108 ❤️ 866 · A Christmas Proposal | c.vn · You told one tiny lie about being engaged to Vernon. Now you’re spending Christmas with
Ego Death at reverb Records by @goldenhourology
[Synopsis: when Vernon is hired as your new manager at one of the most long-standing record stores in nyc, he ruins the perfectly crafted bubble you curated. he's pretentious, doesn't respect that sometimes you need to work on your thesis during shifts, and did I mention he has an earring? he's annoying and your worst nightmare, but when you decide to take him up on his offer to show you new music, you slowly realize that he might just become your favorite person.]
💬 27 🔁 166 ❤️ 1147 · EGO DEATH AT REVERB RECORDS.
pairing: hansol vernon chwe x f!reader
genre: smut, angst, fluff, frenemies to lovers
Balance by @daechwitatamic
[Synopsis: “I’m just having trouble juggling everything right now,” Vernon tells you when you confront him about his absences around campus lately. You don’t know he means it literally until your roommate drags you along to a traveling, nighttime circus called the Midnight Menagerie and you recognize a sharp-smiled juggler across the ring.]
💬 10 🔁 61 ❤️ 192 · Balance || chs · (banner by @sailorsoons)
Written for the Midnight Menagerie collab in @camandemstudios !! Please chec
All in my head by @studioeisa
[Synopsis: story of you, vernon, and the mortifying ordeal of having a crush.]
💬 10 🔁 99 ❤️ 609 · all in my head 🌼 vernon x reader. · the story of you, vernon, and the mortifying ordeal of having a crush.
🌼 pairing.
Ghost Ride (series) by @chocosvt
[Synopsis: post-graduate, your life sucks especially hard. two jobs, a lazy roommate, and an imperceptible social life have dulled you to grey. nothing seems like it's going to change. until your roommate decides to let her plug crash at your place, and you're bribed into a strange adventure that challenges everything you thought you were.]
💬 16 🔁 99 ❤️ 440 · ghost ride | part one. · ✧✎ synopsis: post-graduate, your life sucks especially hard. two jobs, a lazy roommate, and an
Here you go...some Boo Seungkwan recommendations to mark our Jeju boy's 28th!!
Starlight Eyes by @nothoughtsjustfic
💬 0 🔁 5 ❤️ 26 · Starlight Eyes - B.SK · 🌟Who: Boo Seungkwan (Seventeen) x female reader
🌟What: Little angst at the start. Fluff. Friends t
[Synopsis: The past months together were supposed to be his way of forming a connection with you, a connection that would allow you to see him in a romantic manner— like you had started to with Seungcheol last year. But it seems as if it has just made Seungkwan’s feelings for you burn brighter and his crush to turn into something more. ]
Street Demon by @sailorsoons
💬 8 🔁 84 ❤️ 315 · Street Demon (b.sk) · PAIRING: Mafia!Seungkwan x f. reader
SUMMARY: You’ve been street racing since you could reach the
[Synopsis: You’ve been street racing since you could reach the pedal of a car - it’s the only thing you’ve ever been good at. When Seungkwan shows up to make an offer you can’t turn down, you realize it isn’t about racing anymore - it’s about life and death.]
Just Three Dates by @etherealyoungk
💬 3 🔁 19 ❤️ 139 · just three dates | boo seungkwan · SUMMARY: a late night convenience store run leads to an unexpected encounter when you
[Synopsis: a late night convenience store run leads to an unexpected encounter when you bump into a stranger and end up returning his lost wallet. grateful, he insists on repaying you with dinner. you agree, only to find out later that he was boo seungkwan, heir to one of the biggest conglomerates in the country. what begins as a simple thank you slowly starts to turn into something else when seungkwan reaches out to you again, drawn to you in a way he can’t explain. wary of his sudden interest in you, you make a deal with him: three dates, and if you feel nothing, he walks away with no questions asked. but with each meeting, the lines start to blur. will you push him away, or will you give him a chance? ]
Lunch Hour by @haologram
💬 0 🔁 39 ❤️ 300 · lunch hour ❆ b.sk [m] · 𝜗ৎ part 3/17 of happy haolidays with haologram!
— synopsis: things aren't always what they seem
[Synopsis: things aren't always what they seem, but context clues make it known that you and seungkwan aren't exactly just coworkers.]
The last two to know by @forsvtkwannie
💬 2 🔁 71 ❤️ 771 · The Last Two to Know || Boo Seungkwan x you ♡︎ · genre: idol! Seungkwan x Junior Producer!reader, fluff, suggestive, nan
[Synopsis: “Nana Tour wasn’t just about travel — it was where Boo Seungkwan finally fell in love, and everyone saw it before he did.” ]
Pinky Promise by @wheeboo
💬 0 🔁 44 ❤️ 296 · pinky promise? | boo seungkwan · SYNOPSIS. in which seungkwan reminds you that you are worthy of love.
PAIRING. boo seu
[Synopsis: in which seungkwan reminds you that you are worthy of love]
Pro Rider by @bitchlessdino
💬 1 🔁 26 ❤️ 180 · ProRider (m) · Pairing: Boo Seungkwan x f!reader
Genre: humor, smut
Word count: 4.6k
rating: R
tags: MDNI, open ending,
[Synopsis: Anywhere there’s a FlowRider, you can just about ride any big or small artificial waves safely for any size rider, but there’s nothing artificial about the waves Seungkwan is trying to make with the cute attendant at one of these rides. Just how big of a wave is he going to make? Will he prove himself a pro? And will someone discover themselves to be a pro rider?
Untitled by @wonwunss
💬 1 🔁 79 ❤️ 800 · –ᝰ.ᐟ✮ Seungkwan has always shown his affection through playful teasing, calling his sunshiney best-friend-turned-lover n
[Synopsis: –ᝰ.ᐟ✮ Seungkwan has always shown his affection through playful teasing, calling his sunshiney best-friend-turned-lover names like “dummy” and “idiot”—terms laced with years of shared memories and unspoken love. But when someone else casually calls you the same name, it doesn’t land the same. You’re too polite to say anything, but Seungkwan sees it instantly—and doesn’t tolerate it one bit]
High Maintenance by @seungkw1
💬 0 🔁 0 ❤️ 3 · high maintenance — bsk · ♡ pairing: boo seungkwan x f!reader
♡ theme: friends to lovers, smut [18+ mdni], humor
♡ wc: 6,861
[Synopsis: Seungkwan has smoked weed exactly once in his life, and it went about as poorly as it could. He vowed to never partake again, a promise he's kept until today, when he accidentally ate one of your weed brownies. You spend the night taking care of him so he doesn't freak out, and everything is going surprisingly okay — that is, until he becomes ragingly and uncontrollably horny.]
Kiss me, It's for the podcast by @supi-wupi
💬 0 🔁 1 ❤️ 12 · Kiss Me, It’s for the Podcast - Seungkwan · pairing: seungkwan x reader
synopsis: When your psych professor assigns you an
[Synopsis: When your psych professor assigns you and Seungkwan to run a “relationship simulation podcast,” you both commit to the bit way too hard. Listeners start shipping you. You start panicking.]
(Dividers from @/saradika-graphics & @/strangergraphics)
Hope you all have a good day, readers! (P.S. go stream Serenade album songs...all the songs are so good)
