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BORROWED LOVE.

IN WHICH. . . Born into one of Seoul's most influential families, you've always known your life will be planned for you. But when your parents announced your arranged marriage, you refused to let them decide your future. You came up with a brilliant plan: convince everyone you're already seeing someone. Via a dating app, you met Kim Sunoo, an ordinary university student whose biggest worries is classes and part-time shifts. You agreed to fake date until the marriage was called off. But when staged dates turned into genuine laughter and stolen moments became memories, the line between borrowed affection and real love started to blur.

27.1k wc⠀‎❀⠀‎ luxury & rich people au ♪♪ kim sunoo x fem! reader 𐧘 explicit mature content, fake dating, angst with comfort, families issue, different financial backgrounds, arguments, jealousy, unresolved & resolved sexual tension, dry humping, unprotected sex, brat x brat tamer, mean dom sunoo, breeding kink, couch sex, degrading & praising, choking, happy ending. lmk if i miss anything!

playlist: messages from her - sabrina claudio, truth is - sabrina claudio, reflections - the neighbourhood, better off - ariana grande, dear god - tate mcrae.

perm tag list [always open]: @lolliloopsy, @kristynaaah, @lac4ygal, @sacrificemuraa, @hoonguin, @enhaxlhs, @ryulshot4sho, @yangvitta, @pleasantheartsworld, @cherryw0n,

borrowed love tag list: @bamb1bgirl, @f-nari, @baedreamverse, @fancifulrealist, @areikii, @zoe1love, @dollhoonie, @edogawadoyle, @fixonfairy, @classyloredestiny, @nct-sticker-127,

from author: my first sunoo fic and i gotta put him with fake dating trope because why not. this is nawt proofread so close your eyes if you see any errors.

The moment you were born and took your first breath of the air, you never had a say in your life. Not even once. Not even to demand for your parents to buy you your favorite toys. Normally, childhoods was supposed to be filled with innocence, fun while children run around freely as they shrieked and screamed in glee, embracing the sunlight shining down on them. Childhood is a crucial part in everyone's lives. How one experience their childhood will shaped their personality and future in the long run.

Safe to say, you never experienced any of that—not the kind of freedom children were supposed to have, not the chance to run around as free as a bird and not the chance to play with plastic dolls or going to the playgrounds. No, the moment you were able to learn to read, talk and write, you were thrown into classrooms.

Classrooms with specially-hired tutors for different languages that cost an organ. You spent most of your time in a room of four walls, with different tutors drilling different content into your mind. It got to the point until you could hear them even when you're asleep. While normal children spent their time outdoors, you spent your childhood learning and inhaling all forms of content at the speed of light, locked in a room and treated as a machine.

It became worse the older you get. It didn't help that you're the daughter of one of the most influential families in Seoul. Your family is The Family. Your parents were fixated and hell-bent on the idea of turning you into the next ideal heir, wanting you to be at your best. They sent you to the best school that offered the best education and the list goes on.

And for the entire time, you never tried fighting for your rights. What's the point when it's as clear as day that your parents won't listen to you? Hence, you took the safer route of keeping quiet, simply bowing your head while tuning their words out whenever they opened their mouths.

"Smile for the cameras, (Name). Remember everyone's eyes is on you," your mother warned you for the nth time.

"Yes, Mother," you replied, letting her readjust your necklace although there wasn't any point since no one will be looking at it. But you didn't have the heart to tell her that.

The woman stepped back once she's satisfied. She led the way, stepping out of the room with you walking beside her, easily matching her pace. Every step you took made a click-clack sound as your heels touched the marbled, polished floor. You held your chin high, hands politely resting in front of your lap—just like how you were trained to do so since young.

You reached a pair of closed doors with security standing on both sides. They simply spared you and your mother a glance before opening it, granting you entrance. Your mother was the first to move, stepping in with you hot on her heels. The moment you appeared, the first floor filled with both men and women dressed in expensive, luxurious and tailored-made suits and gowns all turned in unison.

Multiple eyes landed on your figure. Some were intrigued. Some were pleased. Some were jealous. In conclusion, there's different emotions just from seeing you, something you were used to ever since you was forced to attend your first event. Your mother started descending the round flight of stairs and you followed, eventually reaching the bottom.

The woman gracefully stepped onto the small stage that was specially set-up for today's event. The moment she stopped, the press went wild. The sound of cameras going off echoed throughout the room. Your mother made no move to stop them, simply letting them take as many pictures as they need and once it died down, she took that as her cue to speak up.

"Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for coming down to an important day for all of us. Today's celebration is worth celebrating and it will be revealed later. I shall not take up too much of your time. Please, help yourselves to the food and drinks," she said, gesturing to her right side, where a wide variety of food held in long, silver and rectangular-shaped containers was displayed on a row of tables.

The crowd cheer and some made a beeline to the mouth-watering food. Some chose to mingle among the crowd, breaking into smaller groups to chatter with familiar faces. You, on the other hand, wasn't allowed to roam around by yourself, even if you're already a young woman in her twenties.

Instead, you have to follow your mother, similar to a dog owner taking it out for a walk in the park. Except in this case, you're treated as an auction item, meant to be shown off with your mother proudly displaying you in front of the crowd. She introduced you to people after people, names who you couldn't be bothered to remember. You played the role of the perfect, obedient daughter—laughing, giving feedback and saying sugary-coated words at the appropriate times, all to appease to strangers who only viewed you as the daughter of The Family.

They didn't bother trying to learn more about you—your likes, dislikes, hobbies, pet peeves and so on. The next one hour passed and you were already desperately wishing to head home, to face-plant into your bed but you knew if you do that, your parents will be furious. You were now standing in a corner of the room, observing the sea of people.

Your parents were nowhere to be seen, only for them to step onto the stage, both mother and father standing side by side. Their sudden appearances made the crowd go silent, curious to what they planned to say. This time, your father spoke up. His voice was firm, commanding and authoritative—the voice of someone who spent most of his time in meeting rooms rather than his own home.

"Good evening, everyone. I hope the food was enough to meet your expectations. But not to worry, there's still plenty more in the kitchen. If anyone is still feeling hungry, let me know so the staff can bring them out. Better to finish them than throwing it away," he joked and a series of laughter echoed among the crowd, even though it wasn't funny at all.

Once the laughter settled down, he resumed speaking.

"I'm sure everyone must be curious about why we're all gathered here today. It's simple. My daughter, (Full Name), will be getting married in six months' time."

Silence.

The crowd erupted into a loud round of cheering and clapping, matching joyous smiles on their faces. All of them turned to face you—standing in the corner of the room, perfectly well concealed from any watchful, prying eyes but not watchful enough for you to become the center of attention. Your eyes widened, blood turning cold. The empty glass of wine slipped from your grasp, landing on the polished floor and it shattered upon contact.

Some people gasped, stepping away from you but you paid them no mind. You tuned your surroundings out until all you could hear was the sound of your heart pounding rapidly against your chest. A lump lodged itself in your throat, refusing to let you breathe.

You curled your fingers tightly, arms firmly pressed against your sides. Anger burned hotter than embarrassment as something warm crept up the back of your neck. To make matters worse, no one knew the truth. The truth about how your parents had signed you off to someone—a complete stranger, like you're not viewed as a human but rather, an item.

You had enough. Enough of your parents dictating your life, using and treating you like a tool without giving you a say in your life. You needed a plan, fast. The sooner you find one, the higher the chances of the engagement being called off.

~

"I'm telling you, I'm onto something."

"Sure you are."

"Alright, someone needs to put you in your place because the disrespect is getting out of hand."

Sunoo sighed in exasperation, rubbing the small between his eyes. He sworn he could feel an incoming headache after hearing his two friends—Nishimura Riki and Yang Jungwon, bickering like an old, married couple for the unknown time. The three were currently at a cafe situated not far from their campus. It's one of their weekly or daily hangout areas, somewhere for them to rewind and destress after surviving a day of lectures.

"Can you two stop arguing just for five minutes?" He complained. Being the oldest among the three, sometimes he have to step forward to act as the meditator, which could backfire on him.

Keyword being sometimes.

The pair turned a deaf ear to his words and continued to argue with one another. Sunoo sighed, starting to pack his things when he saw his phone screen lighting up from where it laid on the table. He accepted the call immediately, relieved that his knight in shining armor have arrived.

"Jay hyung? Thank god you called. I'm about to lose my mind with these two idiots," he complained, ignoring the offended "hey!" from his friends.

The older man chuckled and Sunoo was able to hear what sounded like two children screaming and shrieking in glee in the background. "You're welcome, Sunoo. But, I'm afraid I need your service. Are you free?"

"Any where else's better than here," he replied without hesitation.

"Wow, the betrayal is real," Riki muttered under his breath, crossing his arms as he sulked like a child.

"Since you said that, mind coming over now? My wife and I have a important dinner to attend and you're the first person we thought of to look after the—OW! Hey, don't pull my hair!"

Sunoo blinked when Jay yelped in pain, followed by a series of loud child-like laughter from his children. He could practically imagined it—his friend struggling to keep them under control while he was still on call. It's enough for a faint smile to stretch across his face.

"Jay hyung, is everything alright?" He inquired.

"Yup, all good. I swear, kids have too much energy that it's draining to watch over them. You're coming, right? I'll double your pay," he said hopefully.

The university student rolled his eyes. "You don't have to do that. You know I'll babysit them without getting paid. I'll be there in thirty minutes."

"Great, thanks a lot, Sunoo. You're a lifesaver," Jay thanked him and they hung up after bidding one another farewell.

"Was that Jay?" Jungwon asked the moment Sunoo ended the call.

"Yeah, he's heading out and needs me to watch over his kids," the student replied while rising from his seat, slinging his bag over his left shoulder.

"Have fun. Say hi to the kids for me," Riki said and Jungwon nodded in agreement.

"Sure, see you guys then. Try not to fight once I'm gone," he replied, waving and left the cafe, heading to the nearest bus stop.

True to his words, it took him exactly thirty minutes to arrive at his destination. He could hear children screaming on the other side of the door. Shortly after, the door was opened to reveal Jay's wife—Rin. Her face lit up like a lightbulb, like she was greeted by an angel sent from heaven or a knight in shining armor.

"Sunoo, thank god you're here!" Rin greeted, stepping toward him to pull him into a bone-crushing hug, nearly cutting off his oxygen supply.

"Rin, you're gonna kill the poor boy if you continue squeezing him like a soft toy," her husband chided.

The woman released him from her vice-like grip. Sunoo burst out laughing when he saw weariness etched across the older man's face. Not to mention, his older daughter of the two—Naeyeon, was hanging over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. The young girl was whacking her small fists but to a grown-man like Jay, her attacks was nothing.

"Fatherhood looks good on you, hyung," he remarked.

Jay rolled his eyes. "Don't even start, Sunoo. Come in," he and his wife moved aside, letting the boy entered after he removed his shoes and turned to the hallway, "Nari! Uncle Sunoo's here!"

Sunoo gasped, an offended look on his face. "Uncle? I'm only one year younger than you!"

The man ignored him and a young girl around the age of five to six, dashed towards Sunoo. A wide and innocent smile stretched across her cute, round face at the sight of him.

"Uncle Sunoo! You're here!" She exclaimed, jumping into his awaiting arms, dropping to his knees and spread his arms wide open.

"Nari! You're so cute!" He squealed, rubbing his cheek against the girl affectionately, eliciting a round of giggles from the child.

"Hey, why do I feel like you're trying to steal the spotlight?" Jay deadpanned, bending over at waist level to place his older daughter down—Baekhwa.

"It's not my fault your kids like me more than you," he replied sassily.

Jay gawked, acting like he was struck right in the heart. Before they could broke out into an argument, Rin quickly stepped forward with one hand on her husband's chest.

"Alright the two of you, don't argue in front of the kids or they're gonna learn from you. Jay, we have a event to attend. If we don't leave now, we're gonna be late," she directed the last half of her sentence to the man.

"Oh shi—I mean, you're right," he stammered, nearly cursing out loud in front of the kids, managing to stop himself from Rin's pointed look.

Both husband and wife ran around their house, grabbing whatever they need before they were finally ready to leave. Jay's hand was on the doorknob when he stopped, turning to Sunoo who had moved the kids to the living room, now playing with them.

"Sunoo, call us if something happen," he called out from the doorway.

"Don't worry, hyung. I got this. Just go and have fun," he answered, waving the couple off.

Jay nodded, shoulders sagging in relief and left with his wife, the door closing behind him. Once their parents were gone, the two sisters took that as their cue to pounce on Sunoo, who let out a dramatic and exaggerated pained shout, falling to the floor dramatically. Overjoyed, both Baekhwa and Nari cheered and jumped about on the spot.

"Look, we did it! We managed to take down Uncle Sunoo!" Nari exclaimed, smiling triumphantly eye to eye.

Sunoo laid still for a few seconds, pretending he was dead. Only for him to make his move when Baekhwa poked his cheek. He shot up from the wooden floor, easily scooping the two girls up into his arms. The sisters shrieked and screamed at the top of their lungs, struggling to free themselves but it was to no avail.

"Alright, that's enough from you. How about we do some coloring, hm? I can help you with your homework," he proposed, not really having the energy to do any form of physical activities any longer.

"Boooo! I don't like homework!" Nari protested, jutting her lips out in a pout.

Laughing, he reached out to pinch her cheek. "Now now, it's best to finish them so your teacher won't scold you. You don't want your parents to find out you're being naughty, do you?"

Nari gulped at his words, knowing how stern and scary Jay can be if he were to find out she hasn't done her homework, like the diligent child she should be. She managed to free herself, running back to the living room where the coffee table's surface was covered in a mess—papers, crayons and textbooks.

Baekhwa, on the other hand, simply remained in his arms, her small hand gripping onto the front of his shirt. He looked down, cooing under his breath at how she's struggling to remain awake.

"Aw, poor baby. Let's put you to bed, shall we?" He murmured, kissing the top of her head and stood up, heading to her bedroom on the second floor.

Between his hectic life as a university student who has one year left before graduating and his unstable part-time job to babysit children, Sunoo loved his current life and wouldn't trade it for anything else.

By the time Jay and Rin returned home, it was close to eleven in the evening. Sunoo was still wide awake, having taken over the coffee table to work on his assignments when he heard the door opening and closing, followed by approaching footsteps. He looked up to see the couple returning and stood up, wincing at the stiffness in his limbs.

"Sunoo, you're still here?" Jay asked, frowning when his eyes landed on him.

He shrugged his shoulders. "Yeah, I'm not leaving until you're back, hyung. It's not safe to leave the kids alone."

"How are you planning to go home? It's already late and there's no more buses," he pointed out, glancing at his watch strapped around his left wrist.

"I can call an Uber—"

"No you're not. You can stay over for tonight. I'll drop you off tomorrow," he interrupted.

Sunoo rolled his eyes. "No, it's fine, hyung. I don't wanna trouble you."

Jay clicked his tongue and waved off his words with a dismissive flick of his wrist. "Sunoo, we've been friends for a while and you're still the same as always. Just accept my offer or I'll knock you out and bring you to the guestroom."

He blinked. "…Are you threatening me to stay over?"

"Yes, drastic times call for drastic measures."

Sunoo stared a few seconds longer and when it's clear Jay isn't taking no for an answer, he sighed. "Fine, I'll stay over."

Jay smiled, pleased. "Good answer. You know where the things are. My house is your house too."

Sunoo snorted, moving to keep his things. "Careful, hyung. If you say that, I might end up staying here forever."

"Yeah, and you're gonna be a bad influence to my kids."

"No, I won't!"

~

"So, let me get this straight—"

"What is so hard for your pea-sized brain to not understand?" Giselle interrupted, unfazed with the sharp glare she received.

Sunghoon scowled, throwing another side eye before turning back to you. He leaned forward, elbows resting on his thighs with his half-empty cup of iced vanilla latte held in his right hand.

"As I was saying, your parents announced to the press that you're getting married in six months?" He continued.

You nodded, taking a slow sip of your own beverage.

You're currently having lunch with your two closest friends—Giselle and Sunghoon. The three of you knew one another through your parents' connections. Both came from similar backgrounds—influential families in their own special areas. Unlike most people you have met, the two of them were genuine and treat you as who you are, forgoing your title and status, something you're immensely grateful for.

"Do you know who you're marrying?" Giselle asked, pointing her fork at you after swallowing her mouthful of food.

"No, they only announced my engagement, which has already spread across the Internet," you replied.

Sunghoon whistled, now leaning back into his seat with his long legs stretched out before him. "How do you feel now that you're more famous? Ow!"

He yelped in pain, visibly flinching on the spot. You didn't have to look down to know Giselle had kicked him in his shins, suppressing the urge to grin by taking another sip of your drink.

"You dumbass, you know how (Name) feels about love and relationships," she retorted.

The other simply raised his hands in mocked surrender. "Calm down, woman. I'm only joking around. Damn, I'm trying to lighten the mood and this is the kind of reaction I get. Boring."

Giselle rolled her eyes and you sighed, placing your now empty cup down on its saucer. "It's fine, you two. I need a plan to convince my parents to call the marriage off."

The two shared a look and Sunghoon chimed in. "How about you find someone to be your boyfriend?"

You blinked, bemused.

Giselle cleared her throat. "He meant a fake boyfriend. Someone who can play the role of a boyfriend until the marriage is called off," she clarified.

You pursed your lips. "That sounds possible but how do I find someone who's willing to do that?"

"You have many fans out there. I'm sure someone is dying to be your fake boyfriend," Sunghoon deadpanned.

You scrunched your nose. "I'm not picking someone from the fan club. What if they're crazy? I don't wanna die because of them. And if I do, my blood's on your hands."

"Hey! It was just a suggestion!"

"How about you download a dating app?" Giselle offered.

"That's literally the same as what I said," the man pointed out but you paid him no mind.

"What dating app do you recommend?" You asked.

Giselle smirked, knowing your interest is piqued. "Bumble. Just go undercover, don't reveal your real identity until you've met him face-to-face. Tell him you need him to be your fake boyfriend and done!"

"That's a recipe for disaster," Sunghoon chirped, hissing between his teeth when Giselle kicked him in the shins again. "Ouch! For fuck's sake, can you stop kicking me!?"

She stuck her tongue out at him, acting like a child despite her grown age. "No, men like you piss me off. Shut up if you have nothing better to say."

He muttered something under his breath, scooting as far as he could, not wanting to get another kicking from her. You, on the other hand, pulled your phone out and wasted no time in downloading it. It was easy to find, located at the top after typing the name of the application. Giselle moved closer, snatching your phone out of your hand before you could blinked.

"What the-hey! Give it back!" You exclaimed, lunging forward but she only moved the device out of your reach, cackling mischievously like a witch.

"Let me help you set your profile up," she said, adding another sentence at your worried look, "don't worry! I won't choose any weird pictures."

"That's not reassuring," you answered without missing a beat.

Giselle gasped, placing a hand on her chest with a mocked offended look on her face. "How can you not believe me? After everything we've been through!"

You merely rolled your eyes, used to her antics. "Fine, but seriously, don't choose any stupid pictures or I'll kill you, Gi."

"No promise!"

"Giselle!"

Thirty minutes later, your Bumble account was officially set up. Giselle handed your phone back afterwards and true to her words, the pictures she chose wasn't anything weird or borderline offensive. The pictures doesn't outright revealed your face, going with the mysterious and alluring route to attract people. After all, you're the daughter of the most influential family in Seoul. If someone were to find out you're on an dating app, you can imagined the entire Internet going wild over it.

"Thanks, Gi. Hopefully I can find someone," you thanked her.

"No problem. The sooner you do, the better it is. I'd get started on the hunt if I were you," she chided.

You sighed, running a hand through your hair. "I know, I know. I should get going before my parents lose their minds."

Sunghoon shot you a rare sympathetic look, eyes following you as you stood up. "For what it's worth, we're proud of you, (Name)."

You stopped mid-action, ready to take your wallet out. "What's with the sudden words?"

He ignored your attempt of lightening the mood. "We've seen you constantly bowing and submitting to your parents without resisting them. It's a surprise when you mentioned you want to do something to call off the marriage."

Giselle nodded from her seat. "He's right. And as your friends, you have our support. You can come to us anytime if you need help. We promise."

Your heart swelled with gratitude at her sincere words and you flashed them a grateful smile. "..Thanks, you guys. I wouldn't have known what I'd without you two."

"Probably still a puppet and listening to your parents," Sunghoon muttered under his breath.

Giselle reached out to deliver a strong, powerful kick to his shins. This time, he couldn't hold back the pained shout that echoed throughout the restaurant, gaining other people's attention as they turned to your direction. You sighed, shaking your head in exasperation at your friends' antics, taking the chance to sneak away when they were distracted.

~

"Welcome back, Ma'am. Your parents is waiting for you in the dining room," the head butler of your family greeted, bowing at a sharp ninety-degrees.

"Did they mention why?" You asked.

He shook his head and you sighed. "..Fine, thanks for letting me know."

"Of course, Ma'am. Do you need me to lead the way?"

"No need for that. You should go and take a break. It's past your working hours," you replied softly.

The butler paused before his features softening, a faint smile appeared on his face. "…Yes, Ma'am. I shall do that. Please, enjoy your dinner."

You nodded and the man left, heading in the direction of where all the staff stayed in, located on the left side of the estate. You walked to the dining room, every step you took echoed throughout the quiet and long hallway. There were framed paintings hung on your left side—featuring pictures of your grandparents, followed by each generation, one after another.

The last painting located nearest to the closed doors had you and your parents faces. Unlike the previous generations, who were smiling, the three of you weren't smiling. In fact, anyone with eyes and common sense was able to notice how you don't looked like a family. But rather, you looked more like acquaintances who just so happened to stay under the same roof.

You stopped, an unreadable look on your face as you stared at it before looking away, opening the door without bothering to knock. The dining room itself was just as majestic as the rest of your estate—spacious and luxurious. The table was already set—utensils and a wide range of dishes placed on the table, specially made by the in-house chef.

Your father was the first to speak, eyes landing on your face from his seat. "(Name), you're here. Take a seat. We have something to discuss with you and it's about your engagement."

Engagement.

Hearing it was enough for your stomach to twist into itself. You said nothing, simply sitting on the nearest chair, opposite of your mother and on the left of your father, who sat at the head. You didn't pick up the utensils, hands resting on your lap as you stared at a random spot of the clothed table. The air itself was thick, tense and suffocating. You sworn you could feel invisible vines wrapping around your neck, as if it's daring you to make a move.

"Your fiance is Cho Hajoon."

Your blood turned cold. You recognized the surname. The Cho Family is someone who directly serves the President of Seoul and among the list of influential families, they are a league over everyone else. Including you. Which was why it's a surprise to you and it also made you wondered: just how were they able to persuade the Cho Family from accepting the marriage proposal?

As far as you're aware, they mostly keep to themselves, rarely doing public appearances and preferred working in the shadows. Nothing much is known about them, not even their family members. Even if you're dumbfounded by the news, you didn't show it on your face, choosing to simply acknowledge it with a simple nod of your head.

This time, your mother continued from her seat. "Hajoon is a nice and charming young man. We are certain once you are wedded to him, you will be able to birth a child that contains both of the families' lineage."

Your gaze drifted from your mother's composed state to your father, desperately searching for any possible signs that one of them will realized how utterly absurd this sounded. However, neither of them seemed fazed, like they were completely fine with it—fine with the idea of throwing their daughter into an engagement, just so she can produce a heir.

You weren't their daughter anymore. In this engagement and discussions, you were nothing more than a vessel. A means to preserve two prestigious bloodlines beneath a single family name. Your chest tightened to the point it's hard to breathe.

You wanted to react—to burst out laughing like an maniac or to stand and flip the entire table upside down. But you didn't. Instead, you sat perfectly still, your posture immaculate as ever and your expression unreadable. Years of etiquette lessons had taught you how to smile through discomfort, how to hide anger behind poise and most importantly, how to swallow every emotion before it could became an inconvenience.

Hence, you remained silent. Not because you agreed to it. But because, you already have a plan in mind. All you need was to find the perfect, ideal person who is willing to step into your world and be your partner in crime.

Two hours after a very much suffocating dinner, you were now laying on your bed, hugging one of your many pillows close to your chest while scrolling through Bumble. Even though you were desperate, you didn't want to end up fake dating someone who doesn't meet your standards. There were different kinds of people you encountered on the For You page. Some were gym freaks. Some were into fashion. Some were only looking for one-night stands and the list goes on.

You continued scrolling, rejecting almost everyone that appeared on your screen until you stumbled upon an interesting picture. Interesting enough for your thumb to freeze over the screen. You blinked, bringing your phone closer to get a better look.

It's a selfie that was taken from above. The man has dark, silky hair that framed his face, parted neatly down the middle with a few loose strands grazing his forehead. Unlike most of the guys you've seen on Bumble, this particular man's features was…soft. He has gentle slightly oval and fox-like shaped eyes, a straight nose and a pair of plush pink lips.

In the picture, he worn a cream knit sweater that looked comfortably worn, the warm color complementing the fair complexion illuminated from the bright overhead lights. There was no luxury cars, no performative pictures, no expensive watches or branded items deliberately shown. It's clear he wasn't trying to flaunt his wealth or status.

It's just him, simple and real.

And for some reason, your thumb hovered over the screen a little longer than it had for everyone else. Out of sheer curiosity and nothing else (at least, that's what you told yourself), you swiped to the second image, only for your breath to hitch in your throat.

Unlike the first, the second image looked far more polished—a huge contrast to the previous picture. He's dressed in a tailored black blazer layered over a low-cut black shirt, the dark fabric accentuating his fair skin. One sleeve was casually rolled up to his forearm, giving the seemingly format outfit a relaxed touch. You sworn you were able to see veins too.

His dark hair was tousled this time, soft strands falling over his forehead effortlessly, like he had ran a hand through it seconds before the picture was taken.

However, what stole the spotlight, other than his handsome face, was the glossy and yummy-looking red cherry delicately held between his fingers. The stem was pinched as he held it just a few millimeters away from his lips. He wasn't looking at the camera but rather, he's looking to the side, almost like it was taken without him noticing.

There's an effortless elegance to the shot and yet, it didn't come across as vain or overly curated, compared to what you have seen. If anything, it felt… natural. There wasn't any cringe-worthy captions shown either. Just his name, age and a few of his likes and dislikes.

"Kim Sunoo…" You whispered his name, savoring the feeling of it rolling off your tongue and a small, almost imperceptible smile tugged at the corner of your lips.

Interesting.

Before you could second guessed yourself, you swipe in the opposite direction and exited the app without hesitation. However, it didn't take you long to receive a notification.

Sunoo: uh hello? i saw you liked my bumble profile.

That's fast. I guess he isn't the type of guy to wait around.

Not wanting to come off as too desperate or as someone with the intention of ghosting him, you answered him exactly six minutes later, not too long and not too short. You laid on your bed, typing and deleting, the cycle repeating itself three times before you settled with a simple and polite response. Not harsh but not too nice either, just somewhere in the middle.

You: hi, yes i did. you're kinda cute :)

Your message was immediately read, like he was staring at his screen the entire time, waiting for your response.

Sunoo: oh. aren't you a little too bold for someone who i've just met on an dating app? You snickered, amused and your fingers flew across your screen, typing. You: why? don't tell me you're shy? Sunoo: no, im not. im just surprised. anyways… tell me something about yourself.

Before you knew it, you spent the next two hours or so texting Sunoo on Bumble, occasionally changing your positions—laying on your left, then right, then on your stomach, on your back and the list goes on. You talked about everything and anything, jumping from one topic to another, like you were long lost friends who got reunited again.

It's strange, being able to click with a complete stranger immediately. You knew you're moving too fast but you didn't have a choice. You took a deep breath, plucking up the remains of your courage and typed a particular sentence. Once you were done, you read through it at least three times, ensuring you didn't make any spelling errors.

You immediately sent it before doubt could take over your mind.

You: are you free tomorrow? if you are, let's meet. there's something i need to discuss with you. Sunoo: is this you asking me out on a date? You: maybe, maybe not. what do you say? Sunoo: i'm free tomorrow. where are we meeting? You: perfect, here's the address and let's meet for lunch. [address sent]. Sunoo: alright, i'll see you tomorrow. good night!

You replied with your own good night text and placed your phone on the bedside table, now staring at the ceiling of your bedroom. All you can prayed that Sunoo wouldn't bailed on you last minute and that maybe, just maybe, he's someone who is willing to help you out too. With the thought in mind, your eyelids gradually grew heavier until you ended up falling asleep, entering the land of dreams.

~

"You're what."

"I'm going on a blind date later," Sunoo repeated what he said, word for word.

Jungwon and Riki exchanged a bewildered look between themselves. Jungwon was the first to speak, being the most blunt person in their small trio group.

"Who's the victim?" He asked.

Riki laughed and Sunoo, on the other hand, gaped at him, rendered speechless by his words. Jungwon simply smiled, batting his eyes like a cat that was caught red-handed by its owner.

"Victim? I'd have you know I'll be an amazing boyfriend," he fired back.

Jungwon snorted. "Oh, I don't know about that, hyung. You can be… dramatic sometimes."

Sunoo's left eyebrow twitched, feeling flames of anger surging up. He held himself back, not wanting to cause a scene in a public area. Not when there are people around. He glanced at his phone, seeing that he has an hour left before his blind date and got up from his seat, earning identical confused looks from his friends.

"You know what, have fun being singles, you two miserable losers. I have a date to attend," he proclaimed, waving to them while ignoring the offended looks he get.

"Hyung, I'm not a loser! If anything, he's the loser," Riki exclaimed, pointing at Jungwon, who let out a gasp of his own.

"What? No, you're the loser!" He argued and just like that, they started squabbling while throwing words at one another.

Sunoo silently slipped away, heading to the nearest bus stop to take one of the buses that will bring him to the city. He wasn't sure why out of every possible places out there, you have chosen to meet in the city and to be more specific, it's in an infamous restaurant. The kind of restaurant where only rich people were able to afford the bills.

People like Sunoo, on the other hand, won't even dared to step into the place. When he arrived, he double-checked the address and the postal code you sent him. He searched the name and even used his current location.

And yup, he is indeed standing in front of what seemed to be a five-stars traditional Korean restaurant. It's spacious, considering how it's able to occupy a plot of land on its own. Sunoo had to tilt his head back to take in the building, nothing but awe written all over his face. With him wearing his best semi-formal outfit he put together, he stood out like a sore thumb as men and women wearing tailored-made suits and shimmering dresses.

Snapping back to reality, the university student entered the building, only to get the shock of his life when he's greeted with a lobby. An actual lobby with a few people standing behind the counter while attending to a few people who have queries that needed to be answered. Soft classical music was playing from the speakers that blended in with the hushed chatter of people around him.

Damn, this is too much for a poor peasant like me.

"You must be Sunoo, right?"

He jumped, startled when a voice spoke up from behind. He turned, the automatic greeting resting on the tip of his tongue was swallowed the moment his eyes landed on you.

Oh.

Standing a few feet away from him was a girl who seemed to be the same age as him, dressed in an navy dark blue blouse that's neatly tucked into tailored high-waisted pants with a long dark coat effortlessly draped over her shoulders. Sunoo's able to tell every piece she worn was no doubt expensive and can only imagined wearing clothes like that in his dreams.

The girl was wearing sunglasses—a rare choice of accessory, considering how she's indoors. It was only when she moved it up, placing it on her head was when he couldn't hold back the gasp that left his lips.

"You're…" His voice trailed off, unable to finish his sentence.

The girl merely smiled, an amused glint in her eyes. "Yup, I'm (Full Name), the daughter of The Family and also, the girl who you've matched with on Bumble. It's a pleasure to meet you."

You stepped closer, reaching out your right hand with practiced elegance. Sunoo blinked, forcing himself to respond by accepting your handshake. He can only prayed that you don't feel how sweaty his palm was from his sheer nervousness. He couldn't tear his eyes away from your face, like he's mesmerized by your presence and appearance.

At this point, everyone's gazes were on you the moment you revealed your identity. From the corner of his eyes, he could see how some were whispering among themselves. Some had even pulled their phones out to record. He internally groaned, knowing his face will be spreading across the Internet tomorrow.

You, on the other hand, was unfazed. Sunoo knew you were used to it—the fame, the constant feeling of being watched and whispered about, like you're some sorts of attraction rather than a human. And that thought alone doesn't sit right with him. Before he could say anything, you dropped your hand, breaking the handshake.

"Come on, it's almost time for our reservation," you said and then, you did something that made his brain malfunctioned on the spot.

You moved to stand on his right and intertwined your fingers together. The motion from start to end was smooth and fluid like water. It happened in a blink of an eye. The moment he felt your hand—smoother and slightly smaller, pressed against his own, his brain stopped working. He couldn't moved or speak, unable to think of anything else other than the thought of your hand.

More importantly, how well your hands fit together, like you're the last two missing pieces for a puzzle.

You inched closer so you can whisper to him, your voice low and reduced to a whisper. "I'd start smiling if I were you. So people will be able to take my good sides."

"…Huh?"

That was all he could say. The next thing he knew, he had entered the restaurant. The interior was as extravagant as the exterior. It's covered in an attractive shade of red with some gold splattered across it. Guests were seen seated by their respective tables. Waiters and waitresses dressed in the standard uniforms walked back and forth, serving food and tea to them.

A waiter led the way for you and Sunoo. Just like before, everyone's eyes immediately landed on the two of you. When they noticed your intertwined hands, he sworn he heard a series of surprised gasps and how some started talking among themselves, not making the effort to lower their volume. Almost like they wanted him to hear their words.

"Isn't that (Name)? What's she doing here with another man?"

"I've never seen him before. But, they're holding hands. Do you think they are dating?"

"Maybe. No one knows the truth but them."

"Wait, then what about the engagement? Won't the Cho Family be pissed if they find out the daughter's already seeing someone?"

Dating? Engagement? Cho Family? What are they talking about?

Many thoughts ran through his mind at the speed of light, to the point that it's making his head spin. The waiter brought you to a more secluded area that's located further into the restaurant. He stopped before a closed door, moving to slide it open to reveal a small private dining room. Sunoo was dumbfounded—the top notch level hospitality and how everyone seemed to recognize you.

Something doesn't feel right.

He wasted no time in beating around the bush the moment the waiter closed the door after he stepped in, taking a step away and pointed at you.

"I think it's time you tell me what the hell is going on," he stated.

You cocked your head to the side. "What are you talking about?"

He narrowed his eyes. "Don't play dumb with me, (Name). I may not be on the same league as you but I'm not blind to how the public react when they recognized you. And I heard some things. How you're engaged to the Cho Family."

You flinched at the last three words and it didn't go unnoticed by him. Sunoo made a mental note and tucked it aside. When the silence prolonged, he sighed loudly and made a show of walking to the door.

"Fine, have it your way. I can just walk away right now and pre—"

"Wait."

He stopped, his back facing you.

What you didn't know was the faint triumphant smile that stretched across his face. Sunoo isn't dumb. He knew from the moment he matched with you and how you made the first move, you're different from the other girls he met, as cliche as that sounds. He looked through your Bumble profile that night. The very same night when you spent two to three hours texting one another.

He wasn't sure why but there's something striking about the pictures you choose. Most were faceless or taken at certain angles to hide your entire face, only showing certain parts—your eyes, side profile and anything that is not your full face. Sunoo was curious, wondering why one would go to such a length on an dating app, a platform where people used to find love or create new bonds.

It's only when he heard you introduced yourself was when it hit him. You're no ordinary person. You're not like him—a university student whose only concerns was meeting deadlines, dealing with incompetent people and so on. No, you're living in a different world. A world so different that there's an unbreakable line set between you and him.

"Yes, do you need something?" He asked, slowly turning to face you.

You frowned, lips pursed in a thin line. "..I need your help."

Sunoo couldn't helped but snort. "Oh really? I can guess something's up the moment you asked whether I'm free or not."

You ignored his sarcastic jab, not falling for the bait and pressed on. "I need you to act as my fake boyfriend."

Silence.

He stared at you, waiting for the punchline, some sort of grand and dramatic reveal he had seen in those reality or comedy shows. He waited for someone to pop out from their hiding spots, to announce that it was simply just a prank, a silly and harmless joke.

But there was nothing.

His lips twitched, forming an awkward smile as he forced out a borderline shaky laugh. "Congrats, you just made the funniest joke I've heard in my entire life. You're joking, right?"

He expected you to burst out laughing, to tell him he had seen through the prank. He expected anything from you but you did none of that. Instead, you merely blinked your eyes at him, your gaze firm and unwavering, resolve absolute too.

Sunoo's smile faltered at your lack of reaction. "..You're serious."

"Yes, I am. I'm not the type to fool around."

He moved to the nearest chair and plopped down onto it ungracefully, feeling his strength leaving his body. "Hold on, why did you choose me? I'm not like you. I'm not rich nor do I have lots of connections. I'm not from a famous family. I'm just a university student that does babysitting as a part-time job."

You nodded, like his words made sense. "Exactly, you're the perfect choice."

Sunoo stared at you, like you have spoken in a different language or grew another head. "But why?"

You sighed, like the answer itself was crystal clear. "Because you're a complete stranger. No one knows about you, which means they won't suspect or doubt your words."

"I don't know if I should be offended by the fact you just called me boring."

You brushed off his words. "We just need to do this for six months. Six months of pretending we're dating until my parents call off the engagement. Once it's done, we can go our separate ways."

Sunoo continued staring and openly gaping at you. "…Is this some sort of grand idea for a show or something? Because this does not feel real to me."

"I can assure you it's real," you stated calmly but the brief glimmer of amusement in your eyes said otherwise.

Sighing, he leaned back into the chair. "..Alright, so what do I get out of this? Surely there's some form of rewards, right? Do I have to sign an NDA?"

"I can give you anything you want."

He blinked for the unknown time. "Anything?"

You hummed. "Anything."

"If I want you to pay for my uni fees, will you do it?" He asked.

"Sure, if that's what you want."

"What about paying for my driving license?"

"That's easy."

"Will you say yes if I ask you to sponsor a three months vacation?"

"Yea, why not?"

He ran a hand through his hair, trying to wrap his mind around this. "…Fine, I'll do it. I'll think about my rewards when the time comes."

You paused, surprised. "That's fast. People will normally need more time to think before coming to an decision."

He scoffed, waving off your words with a dismissive flick of his hand. "Oh, please. Nothing about this is normal to begin with. I mean, who expects to end up matching with the daughter of The Family on Bumble? And to be her fake boyfriend too."

You chuckled, the sound soft and light. Sunoo pointedly ignored how it made his heart fluttered.

"You're right, Sunoo. In any case, I looked forward to working with you, boyfriend."

~

As you expected, live recordings and pictures of you and Sunoo walking hand-in-hand spread like wildfire. It's everywhere, taking up everyone's feeds. No one can escaped it. You weren't surprised with the turn of events. At first, you didn't plan on revealing yourself in front of everyone but you changed your mind when you realized there's a faster way of speeding things up.

The sooner you make your first move, the sooner your parents will change their minds. You were unfazed when you were summoned to your father's workspace, a private room that no one other than him is able to enter. Everyone else was strictly forbidden from entering, unless permission was granted.

You pushed open the door, seeing your father seated by his desk, as imposing and intimidating as ever and closed it behind you. You stood where you are—near the door. He didn't speak, eyes locked on your face with an unreadable look settling itself in place. You knew what he's doing—how he's trying to make you submit, trying to turn you into something you're not.

He cleared his throat. "(Name), what is the meaning of this?"

"I have no idea what you're talking about, Father."

He narrowed his eyes, mild irritation flickered across them. "Don't lie to me. I've seen the Internet. Everyone is talking about you and… and that boy. Do you know what you have done? You're embarrassing your mother and I."

You ignored his words, not wanting to engage in a futile and one-sided arugment with him.

"His name is Sunoo, Father. And he's my boyfriend," you proclaimed.

Your father went as still as a statue, not blinking or even breathing, like he was frozen by Medusa's power. The only form of reaction you got was his left eye twitching slightly, his jaw clenching and fists tightening until his knuckles turned white. While he's silently seething and boiling in fury, you were perfectly cool and collected, unbothered.

"Boyfriend?" He repeated, practically spatting it out like it's venom, slowly corrupting his organs from the inside. "Since when do you have a boyfriend?"

Well, that wasn't a question you expected. Still, it's a good thing, since he had already believed the little bold stunt you pulled.

You crossed your arms. "We've been dating for the past five months and we met through our mutual friends."

The man scowled—a permanent expression for someone as cold-hearted and ruthless as him. "And you expect me to believe your words? How do I know you're not lying to me."

"I can bring him over for dinner tomorrow if you want," you proposed, apologizing to Sunoo in your mind.

"..Fine, bring him over. I would like to talk to him."

You suppressed the urge to roll your eyes. If it was any other families, one would've assumed he was simply looking out for you, like how a father should to his only child. But when it comes to you and your father, it's different. He doesn't act like a proper father and instead, act more like a leader. The kind of leader who's widely feared by the entire company, never needing to raise his voice to make himself heard and is able to make everyone obey him without resisting him.

That pretty much sums up the kind of person your father is. A man who's your flesh and blood, someone who you inherited your surname from. Other than that, there's nothing else.

You nodded. "Will do."

"Good, you can leave," he dismissed you, not sparing you a second glance and diverted his focus to his laptop, like the busy man he is.

The moment you stepped out, your shoulders sagged with relief, the tension leaving your body. You returned to your room, reaching for your phone that was left on your table. You clicked on Sunoo's contact and called him, bringing the device near your left ear. The moment he picked up, you wasted no time.

"Sunoo, we need to talk."

"What? Why? Does it have something to do with me being famous now?" He asked incredulously. It's funny how you could imagine his expression, making you smiled to yourself.

"Yea, my dad wants to meet you tomorrow so you'll be meeting my parents for dinner."

Silence.

"What"

You had to pull your phone away from your ear at his sudden outburst, not wanting to get your eardrums damaged before bringing it back.

"Is something wrong?" You inquired.

Sunoo audibly sputtered. "Is something wrong? Oh, yes there is! What do you mean I'm meeting your parents tomorrow!? It's already six in the evening! I don't have time to prepare for the dinner. What am I supposed to say? How am I supposed to act?"

"Sunoo—"

"Oh god, what if they ask how did we meet? What am I supposed to tell them? Oh, we met via an dating app and I didn't know she's the daughter of The Family. Haha, silly me!"

"Sunoo, can you lis—"

"Do you want me to serve my head on a plate and give it to your parents? I told you before, I'm not born in a rich or influential family like you. It won't be easy to try and convince them that we've been dating for a while. Sure, the public believes it but what if they don't? Am I gonna get killed or executed in secret?"

"Kim Sunoo, let me speak," you cut him off firmly.

The boy paused. "..Right, sorry. I got too caught up in the moment."

You chuckled, turning to lean against the edge of the table with one arm crossed across your chest. "It's fine, it's good for you to feel something. It means you're human."

"Aren't you human too?"

"..Not what I meant but moving on, I'll meet you tomorrow for breakfast. We can discuss what we're gonna tell my parents and get you some new clothes too," you replied.

Sunoo made an offended noise. "Hey! What's wrong with my clothes? I'd have you know, I have some sense of fashion too."

You snorted, amused with his protest. "Oh, I know you do. But trust me, if you want to survive in my world, you need to look the part and once you do, it'll help to get people off your back. Trust me."

"Those are the words of an untrustyworthy person," he pointed out and you sworn you could hear his smile in his words.

"Haha. Very funny. If that's what you want, you can come up with a plan yourself," you retorted.

"What? No! Okay fine, I'm sorry! I trust you! Where are we meeting tomorrow?"

"Just send me your address and I'll come pick you up. Be ready by ten or I'm dragging you out of bed myself."

"…Yes mam."

~

True to your words, you pulled up to Sunoo's apartment building with the address he provided at ten sharp. You texted him, telling him you've arrived and he replied with a "okay, coming down now." You checked your reflection in the overview mirror, ensuring you looked decent before you heard countless voices outside.

"Hyung, are you sure about this? What if she's cat-fishing you?" A boy with feline-like features asked, walking beside Sunoo who's covering his ears, looking annoyed.

"Yeah, what are we gonna do without you, hyung? Who's gonna take care of us?" Another boy, who's the tallest among the three of them, chimed in while walking on Sunoo's left, sandwiching him in the middle of his two friends.

You remained seated in the car, watching while drumming your fingers on the steering wheel. The three boys hasn't noticed you yet, giving you the chance to eavesdrop on their conversation. Sunoo sighed, all loud and dramatic, stopping to whirl around to face his friends, arms on both sides of his hips.

"You two need to stop overthinking and trust me. I've already met her and she's not a cat-fisher," he replied.

Somehow, hearing his words and how he's taking your side made your heart fluttered. The two boys were surprised, not expecting Sunoo to defend you with this much passion. The trio exchanged a few more words in a softer tone and you took that as your cue to step in. Getting out of the car, you cleared your throat.

"Hi boys, mind lending Sunoo to me for today? We're gonna be late for our date," you said.

The three snapped their heads to you in unison. Unlike Sunoo, who was unfazed to see you, the same couldn't be applied to his two friends. Their eyes widened, jaw dropping with matching stunned expressions on their faces, like you appeared out of nowhere, as if you haven't been listening the entire time.

You burst out laughing, bending forward with your hands wrapped around your sides, clutching it, amused with their stunned reactions. What you didn't know was the way Sunoo looked at you—how his eyes softened with something painfully similar to adoration. How the corners of his lips curled upward in a faint smile, like you're actually dating.

This didn't go unnoticed by his friends, being the nosey people they are. His friends shared a look among themselves but didn't voice it out loud, not wanting to suffer from Sunoo's wrath. Despite his seemingly cute and docile appearance, he can be a force to reckon with if one were to push his wrong buttons.

"In that case, we'll leave you two lovebirds to it then. Have fun!" the tallest boy exclaimed, quickly dragging the other away while ignoring his futile struggles to free himself.

You finally calmed down, ready to wipe the tears away but Sunoo beat you to it. He stepped closer, close enough for his cologne to engulf itself around you in a loose hug. Your breath stuttered, heart slamming stop when he stretched out his left hand. His index finger brushed against the skin under your eye, collecting the few warm and damp tears droplets.

What he did next made your mind malfunctioned.

Sunoo brought it up to his unusually glowing lips and your eyes trained in on the pinkish tip of his tongue, licking up your tears, like a cat grooming its own fur. Except in this scenario, the action seemed to have a different implication behind it. Your face turned as red as a tomato, mouth opening and closing but you couldn't uttered anything.

"Y-You—are you crazy!?" You managed to splutter out, tripping over your words.

He simply blinked, like he wasn't responsible for your flushed and flustered state. "What? I don't want to stain my clothes. Let's get going or we're gonna be late for whatever reservation you made."

He walked round you, getting into the passenger seat, leaving you standing there—outside with your heart thumping at a rapid and unsteady pace. You weren't sure but there's a small, tiny part of you that's starting to wonder if you'd ever survive the performance you've started in the first place.

The drive was quick, taking only roughly thirty to forty minutes and you arrived at your destination—a shopping mall located in the busiest and crowded part of the city. It's the kind of places you often frequent but the same couldn't be applied to Sunoo. He walked beside you, taking in his surroundings with obvious awe and amazement, head turning left and right while he try to take in everything.

"Sunoo, you're gonna trip if you don't look where you're going," you called out to him, hooking your arm around his as you dragged him further into the mall.

"Why are we here? Don't tell me you're planning to do the same thing again," he asked, easily matching your pace and didn't push your arm away. You told yourself that he's doing this to maintain the facade and how it doesn't mean anything else.

You shot him a look. "Did you forget what I told you? We need to get you an outfit so we're here to shop for clothes, duh."

Sunoo sighed but the way his eyes gleamed with amusement said otherwise. "Yes, Your Majesty. Whatever you say."

"Men…"

"What's that supposed to mean?"

You flashed him an closed-eye smile. "Oh, don't worry about it."

"That's not assuring at all."

~

You brought him to a store that specialized in selling men clothes.

The staff—one woman and two men, greeted you by bowing at a sharp ninety degrees the moment they saw you entered the shop. Sunoo remained quiet, letting you do the talking. He wasn't blind to notice your slight change of posture, how you carried yourself with grace and everything that a member of the influential family should have.

He wouldn't say it out loud, but seeing you in your element sent dangerous chills down his spine.

"Good morning, Ma'am. Is there anything we can do to help you today?" A woman greeted you as she stepped forward.

You nodded, pointing at the boy standing beside you. "I need you to choose some outfits for him for a dinner tonight. I don't care about the price. Just put it on my card."

"Yes, Ma'am," the woman turned to Sunoo and extended her left arm. "Sir, please follow me."

He blinked, looking left and right before pointing at himself, with wide eyes and parted lips. You chuckled, nudging him with your elbow.

"Yes, you dummy. She's talking to you," you said.

"You can't blame me for double checking! I've never been treated like royalty before," he hissed under his breath, wary to keep his volume down to prevent the nearby staff from hearing him.

You rolled your eyes, shooing him away, like he's some sort of parasite and sat on the nearest couch, deciding to scroll through your phone while waiting for him. You thanked a staff when he placed a tray filled with all kinds of pastries, a small fine china pitcher jar with a tea cup that was placed on a small plate down on the low round coffee table before you.

You leaned forward, plucking a random pastry up and popped it into your mouth, scrunching your nose slightly at the overwhelming sweetness that exploded at every bite. You wanted to grab another pastry, unable to help yourself, only to hear a loud and scandalized gasp. You looked up, heart slamming against your ribcage when your gaze landed on Sunoo.

He's wearing a solid dark blue long-sleeves shirt. There's another layer underneath it—with a light blue shirt with vertical white stripes with the collar tugged out and the first button was buttoned. The lower half of his body was covered with a matching pair of dark blue long pants with two deep pockets at the front.

Your eyes lingered on his broad shoulders, that was further accentuated thanks to the double layers he worn, your mind starting to wander off into the deep end but you were quick to regain your composure. You can only prayed he doesn't noticed your slight flushed cheeks.

Thankfully, he paid your staring no mind, for he was focused on the display of pastries, wasting no time in helping himself to them. Unlike you, who doesn't like overly-sweet things, he was different. He had no problem with the insane amount of sugar in the pastries, on cloud nine with every bite he took.

Your eyes flicked down, noting the faint crumbs on the left corner of his mouth but he didn't notice, too busy savoring each and every pastry that's spread out on the tray. Your hand moved before you knew it, stretching out your thumb to wipe the crumbs away gently. Sunoo froze mid-chewing, body going as still as a statue when he felt your light, fleeting touch.

Your thumb lingered near his mouth, nearly touching if one of you inched closer. You stared at one another, unable to break eye contact, like your surroundings were blurred out until it's just the two of you. You didn't know what took over you as you pulled a bold move—bringing the very same thumb that was near his mouth, to your own lips and licked the crumbs up with the tip of your pinkish tongue, darting out from your lips.

All the while without looking away from him, your gaze holding him in place. You weren't sure what kind of expression you had on your face but whatever it was, it seemed to have an effect on Sunoo, considering how you heard his breath audibly hitching in his throat, how something unreadable and dark gleamed in his eyes before it was gone.

Knowing you have such an effect on him made your heart purred with pride and joy. The feeling of having him wrapped around your fingers is enough for satisfaction to bloom deep in your chest, like a newly-nurtured flower.

Cough, cough.

The brief but tense moment was interrupted by one of the staff clearing her throat, bringing you back to reality. Both of you turned to the front, to see the woman from earlier holding a few clothes in her arms. Sunoo made a startled noise when he saw it, shoulders dropping with a wave of dread washing over him.

"Don't tell me I have to try all of those," he bemoaned, sinking further into the couch like his energy was zapped out of his body.

Chuckling, you shook your head. "You don't have to. I think the one you're wearing now looks good on you."

Sunoo looked down at his fit, rising to his full height to get a better look at how the clothes hugged his figure and made a noise of approval, lips curling up in a faint, pleased smile.

"You're right. I'll take this then," he declared.

The woman stepped forward. "What about these clothes, Ma'am? Should I put them back?"

You glanced at it. "No need, just pack all of them for me. We have somewhere else to be." You turned, ready to head to the counter to make the payment when Sunoo stopped you, his hand grabbing your upper arm, stopping you.

You looked over your shoulder, noting the disbelief evident on his face. "What's wrong? Did you not wanted them?"

Sunoo opened and closed his mouth. "No, that's not it. Why are you buying all of them? I only need one set and it's expensive!"

You were unfazed, shrugging your shoulders. "Alright, and? I don't see your point, Sunoo. You're not paying for the clothes. You can keep them as gift and do what you want with it."

He stared at you before letting out a humorless chuckle, releasing his grip from your arm. "You're unbelievable. Do you really think money is the issue here?"

You sighed, starting to get annoyed and fully turned to face him, crossing your arms. "What are you talking about? Just get straight to the point. I'm not a mind reader."

His eyes lingered on your face, something unreadable flickered across his face. He parted his lips, only for him to close it, gaze averted to the side.

"..Forget it, it's not like you'd understand from my point of view," he muttered, "I'll change and wait for you outside."

You frowned at the sudden change of his behavior. "Sunoo, wait—"

He turned a deaf ear to your words, ignoring how you reached out to him, only for your fingers to brush against the edge of his sleeve. You remained where you were, watching as he ventured further into the shop before disappearing once he rounded a corner, returning to the dressing room to change.

"Ma'am, this way please," a staff called out to you, extending his arm to where the counter was.

"O-Oh, right. Coming," you answered, throwing another glance in the changing room's direction before you followed him, pulling your wallet out of your bag.

You made the payment, not even checking the total amount and dumped your wallet back in. Thanking the staff, you took the five white large paper bags from them, stepping out of the shop to see Sunoo was already waiting for you. He silently took three bags from you, walking beside you. By now, more shops were opened and there was a larger crowd as compared to before.

Your eyes kept darting to your side, checking his face—trying to read and gauge his emotions but it's futile. Not when he managed to maintain a good poker face, preventing you from reading his feelings. Unable to take the tense and awkward silence any longer, you cleared your throat and gestured to the nearby escalator.

"We can head to the second floor to eat. There's a cafe that has really good food and drinks here," you proposed.

"Is it expensive?" He questioned.

You blinked, not expecting that question out of everything else. "No, not really. It's reasonable priced so—"

"Good, because I'm paying," he interrupted, already making a beeline to the escalator.

You gaped, dumbfounded by his words before you rushed to catch up to him, stepping onto the moving escalator as it brought you up. "What are you talking about? Why are you paying? I'm the one who dragged you out."

Sunoo ignored your words, staring ahead of him pointedly. You scowled, disliking it when someone refused to acknowledge your presence or words when you're talking to them. You moved to the next platform so you're taller than Sunoo. You clicked your tongue when he turned to the side, straight-up refusing to look at you, like you're not worth his attention.

Annoyed, you moved your bags to your left hand and reached out to clasp your fingers around his chin. Your painted nails glimmered under the lights as you forcefully turned his face forward, forcing him to look at you. Sunoo's eyes widened, taken aback with your bold action. He wouldn't admit out loud, but with how you narrowed your eyes at him combined with the determined and irritated look, it does something to him.

Something dangerous.

"Look at me when I'm talking to you," you said in a low, slow tone, ensuring that every word in your sentence was properly articulated.

With the close proximity, Sunoo could smell your strong perfume—a mix of vanilla and lemongrass. It coiled itself around him, engulfing him in an invisible hug. It's enough to make his mind nearly blanked out too.

Keyword being nearly.

His saving grace was when you finally reached the second floor, forcing you to step off the moving platform. You continued walking, leading the way to the cafe like nothing happened, leaving Sunoo behind, who have forgotten how to function. He ran a hand through his hair, messing it up in the process and sighed, the sound heavy and long.

He placed a hand over his heart, feeling how it's rapidly beating against his chest. Sunoo isn't stupid or ignorant enough to not know what he's feeling. The rational part of him is frantically ringing the emergency bell, telling him that the longer this goes on, the harder it is for him to back out once it gets messy.

But the other part of him—the part where he's a people-pleaser, someone who couldn't say no when they need his help, thought otherwise. Sunoo groaned under his breath, unaware of how he's blocking other people's path with him standing in front of the escalator, forcing them to walk around him. He was lost in his own thoughts, unaware of how you had noticed he wasn't by your side as you marched towards him, like a man on a mission.

"Yah, Kim Sunoo!" You shouted his name, earning the attention from people around you.

He flinched, caught off-guard and when you got close enough, you grabbed his free hand—the hand that's not holding any bags. Sunoo yelped, nearly tripping over his feet as he stumbled after you. His eyes remained fixated on your back, how you walked with your chin tilted up, showing no signs of backing down, even when there's people staring, whispering and filming you with their phones.

His gaze trailed down to your hand that was wrapped around his wrist. The sight tugged at his heart for an unknown reason. He decided, against his better judgment, to savor the current moment and not worry about the future, even if it might cost him to be heartbroken.

~

Before you knew it, evening has arrived and Sunoo will be here any minute to have dinner with your parents, where he will also be formally introduced as your boyfriend. You weren't allowed to leave the estate to pick him up, much to your annoyance. You knew what they were feared—thinking you were lying to them, that your relationship was nothing but merely an facade and an performance.

You laughed bitterly to yourself, if only they knew the truth.

You were checking your reflection in the body-length mirror situated in a corner of the room, ensuring you looked decent enough when someone knocked on your door.

"Ma'am, your boyfriend is here," the head butler informed on the other side.

"Let him in," you replied, hearing the door opening and it went quiet. Too quiet for your liking.

You turned to face Sunoo, who stood by the doorway and your breath was punched out of your lungs. He's covered in black from head to toe, able to pull off both a mixture of elegance and simple look with no effort. A loose black blazer draped across his broad and firm shoulders. Beneath it was a plain white crewneck shirt, a huge contrast of the sleek midnight-black fit.

A pair of black trousers fell neatly to his ankles, accentuating his long legs, making him looked taller than usual. There's no flashy accessories—just a simple silver pin holding the blazer together, catching the light whenever he moved. His jet-black hair was meticulously arranged in such a way that's styled away from his forehead, leaving a small portion of it hanging over his left eye. With his hair away, it drew more attention to his fox-like eyes, and making his eyebrows looked sharper than before.

He looked both deadly and attractive. Deadly for your poor fragile heart and attractive for your eyes. He looked polished and refined, not looking like the regular university student he was a few hours ago. But rather, someone who belongs in your world.

You found yourself staring far longer than you intended and far longer for it to be considered polite. But Sunoo didn't call you out. Not when he's doing the same too, staring at you with an awe look on his face.

"You… clean up well," you stammered out, barely able to hear your own words through the loud and uneven hammering of your own heart with blood rushing through your veins.

Sunoo smiled, forcefully dragging his eyes up to lock gaze with you, willing himself to stop them from going any lower than your neck. "You too. Shall we get going? Wouldn't want to keep your parents waiting."

You nodded, tucking a few strands of hair behind your ear as you approached him. The way his eyes scanned you from head to bottom didn't go unnoticed by you, sending the all-too familiar sensation of heat pooling in your stomach. You were about to walk past him when he stopped you, reaching out his hand with his palm facing upward.

"Did you forget we're supposed to be pretending?" He murmured, noting how you furrowed your brows.

"Oh, right…" You replied, raising your hand to place it above his.

Sunoo intertwined your hands and fingers together. You tried to ignore how it's a perfect match, like you're the final two missing puzzle pieces to complete the puzzle. His hand is larger than yours with calloused fingerpads pressed against your hand. Your heart somersaulted when he absentmindedly ran his finger along your knuckles.

Snapping out of your trance, you led the way, closing the door behind you and descended the round flight of stairs, reaching the first floor. You were greeted by the head butler, who bowed and his features softened at the sight of you and Sunoo hand-in-hand.

"Both of you look stunning," he complimented, his voice filled with nothing but utmost sincerity.

Your cheeks flushed and Sunoo chuckled, flashing the butler a warm, grateful smile. "Thank you. Would you mind showing us the way to the dining room?"

You threw him a look, impressed with his manners and the tone he used. The butler nodded and bowed at a sharp ninety degrees.

"Of course, sir. Please, follow me," he said.

The butler led the way with you and Sunoo walking behind him. Just like the mall, the boy couldn't help but take in his surroundings with evident awe and amazement written across his face. You snickered under your breath when he nearly walked into a pillar, if not for you managing to direct him away in the nick of time.

"You might wanna close your mouth before a fly flies in," you whispered, having to lean close to him.

"It's not my fault, alright? I thought houses like this only exists on television? Wait, you can't even call this a house. It's a whole estate," he hissed.

You snorted. "You're overreacting."

"Alright, now you're just calling me broke right in my face."

"No, that's not what I meant, you—"

Before you could finish your sentence, the butler came to a stop and you sealed your mouth shut, knowing you have arrived at you destination. Sunoo was quick to take note, straightening himself and patted down his hair while the butler knocked on the closed doors, moving to open it a few seconds later.

You entered first, with him right beside you. Two pairs of eyes landed on your approaching figures the moment you appeared in their sights. Sunoo squeezed your hand, no doubt feeling intimidated by your parents' presences—something you couldn't blamed him. You dragged your thumb along his knuckles, reassuring him silently without opening your mouth.

Don't worry, I'm here with you. If anything happens, I'll protect you.

Judging from the thankful glance you got, you knew Sunoo have gotten the message. Both of you took your respective seats—with him pulling your chair out for you before sitting on your right. With this, you're facing your mother and Sunoo facing your father. The table was already covered in a pristine white table cloth—metal utensils, bowls and plates were strategically placed before each of you.

There was even a massive bouquet of flowers placed in a vase that's placed directly in the middle of the long oak table.

Clap clap.

The head butler clapped his hands and at the cue, the staff working and maintaining the estate entered. Each of them held a tray of mouth-watering food. It took them a solid five to seven minutes for the process and once they were done, the table's surface was covered in a wide range of traditional Korean food—Kimichi Stew, Seafood Pancakes and so on. There were even both rice and noodles.

From the corner of your eyes, you had to stifle the chuckle threatening to leave your lips at the flabbergasted expression on Sunoo's face, how he couldn't believed what he's seeing. What you're used to isn't the norm for him. Your father cleared his throat and the air thickened, catching everyone's attention.

The man's stern gaze landed on the boy beside you, who didn't flinch at all, another thing you're impressed with.

"So, you're Kim Sunoo. The boy who's my daughter's… boyfriend," he started, pausing for a brief and obvious moment before he finished his sentence.

You rolled your eyes when you heard the word 'my'. Your father wasn't the kind of man to use that, unless it's during the useless social charity events or when he wanted to show that you belonged to him and that you're nothing more than a chess piece.

"How did you meet her?" He questioned, jumping straight to the point without hesitation.

You groaned to yourself, feeling a headache coming your way. Sunoo, on the other hand, remained unfazed.

"We met through a mutual friend group. The more we talked, the more we realized we have lots in common and one thing led to another," he replied without missing a beat.

Your father hummed, the same unreadable look not budging. "'I see… What are your intentions with her?"

"I want to treat her well and give her the love she deserved."

The man arched an brow. "Really? How do you plan on doing that?"

Sunoo hesitated for two seconds before responding. "I want to be there for her no matter how far apart we are, to lend her my shoulder to cry on or listen to her ranting." He glanced at you briefly before returning his attention to your father. "I don't care what we do as long as we can be together."

Your hands that were resting on your lap, grabbed a fistful of the fabric of your dress as you brunched it, hating how your heart kept betraying you back-to-back. It's ridiculous. You knew what he's doing—him selling the role and playing the perfect, ideal boyfriend. The kind of boyfriend who every parents will love and fight among themselves to have.

Heck, you've rehearsed this a few hours ago, during the afternoon over lunch—discussing about what he should and shouldn't say. Anything to get on your parents' good side and anything to prevent you from being sent off to a loveless marriage. You knew he's doing this for your sake.

And yet, why does your chest feel so warm after hearing his words? Why does your cheeks feel flushed, like someone had placed a heater in the dining room?

Your father was still unconvinced. "I see… What about you, Sunoo-ssi? What do you do for a living?"

"I'm a third-year university student."

"What are you studying?"

"International Business."

"And what are your plans after graduation?"

"I'd like to work for a few years to gain experience before opening a childcare center of my own."

You snapped your head up so quickly that you nearly broke your neck, fighting against the urge to reveal the surprise that nearly made itself visible on your face.

A childcare center? That wasn't what he told me.

Sunoo noticed your bewildered expression and smiled sheepishly. "I do babysitting as a part-time job. I don't earn a lot but it's something I love doing. And in the future, I wish to have kids of my own too."

The way his eyes flicked to your direction while he spoke made your heart somersaulted. You knew the implication behind his words. Your mind started drifting before you could stopped yourself—thinking about the future, being married to Sunoo and bearing his children—

You were quick to shake the thoughts out of your mind, roundhouse kicking it to somewhere far away. The further it is, the better it is for you and your sanity. Unaware of your current dilemma and the internal battle you're having, Sunoo continued answering your father's questions with ease and confidence.

"What about your parents? What do they do for a living?" Your father asked.

"My mother teaches at a primary school and my father's a corporate employee."

"Any siblings?"

"I have an older sister. She's married and staying with her family."

At this, the man narrowed his eyes, leaning forward slightly to rest his elbows on the table. "So… you have no political influence. No business empire. No inherited wealth. Tell me, do you understand the position my daughter holds?"

"I do."

"The scrutiny that comes with it? The media constantly following you around? The public's eyes watching your every move? The expectations you need to follow and meet?"

Sunoo nodded, determination written all over his face. "Yes, I understand all of it."

"Despite knowing all of that… do you still intend to pursue her?"

Silence.

Sunoo looked at you again and this time, his features softened. His eyes gleamed with an emotion you knew too well—the emotion of love.

Oh.

"I do."

"Why?"

Everyone in the room was able to hear nothing but genuine curiosity in your father's voice. You weren't sure when but at a certain point of the endless questioning, your father was no longer aggressive nor was he looking down at Sunoo. But rather, he's curious. Curious to know what a third-year university student whose dream is to open a childcare center, can do to make his daughter happy.

Sunoo took a slow breath, inhaling and exhaling. "When I'm with her, I want to see her smile and make her laugh. She dislikes overly-sweet things, preferring bitter and salty food over sweetness. She doesn't like it when people don't listen to her. She loves shopping and buying gifts for people she cherished. She can be stubborn, fierce and firm at times. She's not (Full Name) of The Family to me. She's just (Name), that's all. She's my safe space."

Silence.

For a painfully long and awkward moment, no one spoke. The silence grew suffocating. You could hear your own heartbeat pounding in your ears as you kept repeating two words over and over, like a broken and endless cycle.

It's fake. It's fake. It's fake.

He's only acting, only saying what you've gone through during the afternoon. Just following the plan you consolidated together. Nothing more and nothing less.

But the more you think about it, the more it stuck to you. Why did every sentence felt so genuine? Why did your chest tightened every time he looked at you? And most importantly, why did his answers sounded less than a performance but rather, a quiet confession?

You clenched your fists until your nails dug into your palms, using the pain to ground yourself. You forced yourself to face the front, to avoid looking at him. Because you couldn't. Not when your heart and mind is starting to sway after hearing his heartfelt words.

Not when you're starting to fall for Sunoo.

"Wow, that was stressful."

Sunoo commented, undoing the silver pin that held his blazer together and ran a hand through his fluffy and smooth pitch-black hair, messing it up in the process. You said nothing, walking beside him with your eyes staring ahead. You couldn't looked at him, afraid of what you might do if you do. Afraid of crossing the invisible lines and ruining whatever you had made with him.

"I think your parents like me," he continued, peering at you, observing your reaction.

You hummed, nodding slowly. "Really? What makes you say so?"

"I have a feeling. Your mom even pulled me to the side before we left. She said I'm invited to this… charity event that's happening this weekend."

The two of you are taking a walk in one of the open-aired gardens, enjoying the cool night breeze while smelling the fresh and sweet fragrance of flowers. You're supposed to be feel relieved that the major objective had been cleared smoothly without any hindrance. You stopped, coming to an abrupt halt at his words. Sunoo copied you too, looking at you with confusion and something else that's unreadable for you. Something you couldn't quite put your finger on.

He frowned slightly. "You alright?"

"Fine," you answered quickly. Too quickly for your liking.

He scoffed. "No, you're not. You haven't said a word after dinner. And you have that look at you."

"What look?"

"The look where you're pretending you're fine even though you're not. Even when you're on the verge of exploding," he said softly.

And god, maybe it's the way he said it—like he knows you better than you knowing yourself. Maybe it's the way his eyes and voice softened unconsciously as he stared at you. And maybe, just maybe, it's the idea that you're starting to grow soft and letting down the walls you built around yourself.

For whatever reason it was, your throat tightened, like there's something lodged, making it hard for you to swallow. You turned to the front, staring at a random flower that has bloomed under the moonlight.

"I think you should go. I'll text you about the details of the event soon," you said.

Sunoo pursed his lips, debating if he should obliged or refused. But when it's clear you refused to drag the topic any further, he sighed in defeat.

"..Alright, I'll see you on Saturday then," he murmured, sparing you one last, fleeting glance before taking his leave, leaving you standing there, countless thoughts running through your mind at the speed of light.

~

"I knew this will happen," Sunghoon exclaimed the moment you finished telling them the series of events—the little heart-fluttering moments you had, how the dinner with your parents went smoothly and how you're finding yourself swaying.

Giselle rolled her eyes and pinched the bridge of her nose. "No, you didn't. You're just making shit up."

"Listen here, young lady—"

You cleared your throat, quickly stepping in before they could start bickering back and forth. The last thing you wanted was for the three of you to get kicked out for being a public nuisance. All of you were at a cafe, finally having the time to meet and catch-up with one another. Sunghoon, on the other hand, had just returned from a business trip and his face was all over the news—with him managing to secure another investor and gaining a new business partner for his family company.

"Guys, please, we're in public. Can we act like normal civilized people without going at one another's neck?" You sighed.

Sunghoon rolled his eyes, taking a sip of his drink—a classic black Americano, like the true eighty year old elderly man he is. "You're cooked the moment you accepted the idea of asking someone to be your fake boyfriend," he paused briefly to point at you across the table, "you should know what you were signing up for."

Giselle narrowed her eyes. "Sunghoon, don't you think you're taking this a little too far?"

The man blinked, shooting her an incredulous look. "Too far? How is it too far when I'm only saying the truth? Besides, you're the one who's at fault too."

"Me? What the hell did I do?" Giselle squawked, eyes widening.

"You gave her the brilliant idea of getting a fake boyfriend," he deadpanned, sarcasm evident in his voice.

"Yeah, I admit it was my idea but how is it my fault that she fell in love with Sunoo? Feelings isn't something I can control," she fired back.

"Well, yes, but—"

"That's enough."

Your friends were quick to shut their mouths at your cold, firm tone, efficiently shutting them up.

Sighing, you crossed your right leg over your left with your arms crossed before your chest. "Sunghoon, I know you're looking out for me but you don't get to act like that and point fingers at Giselle. None of this is her fault, you should know that."

The man parted his lips, but thought better of it and made the wiser choice of closing it, huffing while sulking like a spoiled child whose parents refused to buy a toy for them.

"I do know that. I'm just worried about you, (Name). You're the type of person who loves with her entire heart," he murmured, features softening with concern glimmering in his pupils, "I'm not saying it's a bad thing, but I just want you to be careful."

Despite the stern facade you put upfront, it wavered when you heard the utmost sincerity in his words. You sighed for the second time and uncrossed your arms.

"I know, Sunghoon, trust me. I'll handle this as soon as possible," you assured him.

Giselle blinked, her eyes darting between you and him, invisible question marks floating above her head. "Wait, what do you mean by that? Are you gonna kill him or something?"

"What? No! I'll just, change my feelings and end the fake relationship the moment my parents call off the marriage," you exclaimed.

Your friends shared a quick glance among themselves and Giselle spoke up, furrowing her brows. "Are you sure you can handle this?"

You forced out a laugh, a laugh that's borderline shaking and waved off her words. If your friends caught it, they chose not to point it out.

"Yeah, I'm sure. Don't worry about me. I'll be fine."

~

You're not fine.

You're standing in a corner of the room—your usual spot for events like this. Events where it's a complete waste of time. Events for your parents to go around, plastering fake smiles while sharing warm hugs with their many foes standing in the same room as them. You didn't have to suffer the usual procedure of being parade around as auction item and it's all thanks to Sunoo.

Speaking of him, your eyes kept drifting back to him, watching how he easily blended in. Even if he hasn't been to a formal event before, his warm and friendly personality felt like a breath of fresh air. It's like he's a walking beacon of light, gesturing and waving to anyone and everyone to interact with him.

When you first arrived with Sunoo beside you, his arm draped around your waist, the venue fell silent. Everyone's eyes were on you, observing your movements like a hawk watching its prey.

"Hey, isn't that the boy from the article?"

"Yeah, it is. I'm guessing the rumors is true. They really are dating."

"They look good together. But what about the marriage with Hajoon?"

"No one knows. I heard both families are still discussing about it."

"It'd be a shame to break them up. They look madly in love."

You weren't sure what to feel about the last sentence, coming from a group of women who never knew when to lower down their volume. The thought of you two looking like a happy couple made your cheeks flushed. No one—even your parents, knew the truth.

You led him to your parents, where he greeted them politely with a smile stretching across his face. To everyone's surprise, your father acknowledged him with a firm nod of his head and a handshake. Everyone knew how cold and aloof the man is. To see him willingly acknowledging someone else's presence meant only one thing—Sunoo had earned your father's respect.

That feat alone was enough to put him on the spotlight.

You had excused yourself, intending to grab some light snacks from the spread-out buffet. Only for you to return to see your fake boyfriend was already surrounded by both men and women. Which brings you to your current dilemma—having to watch while silently simmering in jealousy as a girl who's the same age as you, was standing too close to Sunoo.

Anyone with eyes can tell he looks good and ridiculously handsome, to the point it's driving you up the wall. A charcoal-black cropped jacket rested loosely over his shoulders, the wide-collar giving the outfit an effortlessly and eye-catching fashionable touch. The silver buttons on the jacket caught the light at every movement he made, just enough to capture anyone's attention.

Underneath it was a pale lavender striped dress shirt that peeked through it, its crisp collar framing his neck while the oversized cuffs extended past the sleeves of his jacket. It's subtle but yet, it's enough to keep anyone's eyes on him long enough. His plain black trousers sat perfectly against his frame, falling to his shoes neatly, giving off the impression that he's tall.

Clothes is just clothes.

And yet, when you looked at him, your heart fluttered, nearly leaping out of your chest. Your hands shook, overwhelmed with the urge to reach out to do something—to grab him by the front of his jacket, pull him in and kiss him. You curled your fingers around your barely-touched glass of white wine, gripping it so tight that it's a miracle the fragile stem didn't snap.

"You look like you're planning a murder," Sunghoon commented, sliding up to you casually. His eyes followed the direction of your attention and when he realized what or who you're watching, he whistled under his breath, "damn, you're really jealous."

"I'm not jealous," you replied without missing a beat, taking a slow sip, eyes unblinking while watching how the girl laughed, leaning in with a coy smile and batting her eyelashes at Sunoo through the rim of your wineglass.

Your friend sniggered, downright amused from his role as a spectator. "Right, and I'm the president of Seoul. Eyes don't lie, (Name)."

"One more word and I'm gonna strangle you in front of everyone."

"Oof, tough crowd."

You rolled your eyes, choosing to ignore his presence while you continued observing from where you stood. You hated how the girl is genuinely interested in listening to whatever Sunoo was telling her. You hated how he didn't realize she's trying to hit on him. You hated how he lets her invade his personal space, allowing her to stand as close as possible. The last straw came in the form of her boldly resting her hand on his arm and giving it a light squeeze.

It's nothing serious but boy, does it made you see red.

"Alright, I think you need some fresh air before you actually murder someone."

The next thing you knew, Sunghoon dragged you away from the closed venue. His hand was clasped around your wrist. You nearly tripped over your own feet, managing to down the remains of your wine and dumped the empty wineglass on a tray of a passing waiter. You were oblivious to how Sunoo's attention was distracted, noting your retreating figures and most importantly, how his jaw clenched at you leaving with another man.

A man that's not him.

"What the hell was that for?" You snapped the moment you're out of the room, now standing in the vacant and quiet hallway.

Sunghoon raised his hands in mock surrender. "Woah, calm down. I'm just trying to help you out."

You blinked. "What are you talking about?"

"Where are you planning to take my girlfriend?"

A familiar voice pierced through the silence of the hallway. Sunghoon's grin widened immediately, like he knew something you don't and like he had planned this. You turned around slowly, your gaze immediately landing on Sunoo's approaching figure.

His previous neat and tidy hair had fallen slightly out of place, a few strands brushing against his forehead. His breathing was controlled but the feral-like look in his eyes said otherwise. One hand was clenched in a fist while the other rested stiffly by his side. To make matters worse (or better for your weak heart), he wasn't smiling.

Gone was his usual friendly and warm expression, now replaced with nothing but utter coldness, as cold as ice can be. You've never seen Sunoo like this before—all quiet and aloof. But god, does it do something to your heart, sending dangerous thrills down your spine.

You weren't the target of his rare intimidating gaze. But rather, it's actually your friend—Park Sunghoon, also known as the culprit responsible for stirring the pot. The two men stared at one another in silence, with you in the middle, afraid of breaking it and afraid that if you do, some horrible things might happen.

Sunghoon was the first to break it, chuckling under his breath and crossed his arms. It's clear he's enjoying this—with the mischievous glint in his eyes. The kind of look he has when things went his way without hindrance.

"Your girlfriend?" He repeated.

Sunoo didn't reply immediately, stepping forward at a slow but steady pace. Every step he took echoed among the hallway, until he's strategically standing in front of you, subtly hiding you from Sunghoon's sight.

"Last I checked, she still is," he pointed out calmly.

The words themselves wasn't hostile but it's the tone he used. How there was no warmth in it. You could only stared at the back of his head, eyes wide and lips slightly parted. How he hid you from Sunghoon's sight didn't go unnoticed by your friend, who arched an brow and smirked knowingly.

"Ah… so that's what this is about," he murmured, soft but loud enough for Sunoo to hear it.

You blinked, unable to connect the dots together. "What is?"

Sunghoon chuckled, his sharp and pointed teeth showing when his lips tugged back. "You don't know? He's been watching you ever since I stood by your side. He didn't care about the girl who flirt with him. He was watching you the entire time, in a room full of people."

He paused briefly, letting his words sink in before he continued.

"And when we left, he immediately followed."

"It's because you dragged her out. By her wrist," Sunoo retorted without missing a beat.

Sunghoon hummed, slowly nodding his head. "So what is it? Were you jealous because I touched her or was it because she willingly left with me?"

"Sunghoon, don't—"

The two men ignored you, treating you like you're invisible. You could practically feel the air thickening with tension, on the verge of exploding.

Sunoo's jaw muscle twitched, teeth grinding down on one another. He narrowed his fox-like eyes, giving him a more imposing and intimidating look. His shoulders tightened, muscles tensed.

"I'm just looking out for her," he answered through gritted teeth.

Sunghoon snorted. "You sure? You looked like you're ready to go to war for her."

"Sunghoon!"

Sunoo ignored your outburst. His entire focus was directed at your friend, who kept adding fuel to the fire that has been burning nonstop for the past five to minutes.

"Yeah, I'll do anything for her."

Silence.

The teasing and playful grin on your friend's face faltered at his honest, firm and unwavering tone along with the simple but effective words. The distant chatter and music from the venue was reduced to nothing but a consistent hum in the background, now acting as white noise.

Your heart stopped beating. You couldn't moved an inch, couldn't breathed properly and couldn't tear your eyes away from him. It wasn't a dramatic confession, the kind of confession you have seen in dramas and wished to experience it too. It wasn't grand—with him shouting at the top of the rooftop, practically announcing his feelings to the entire world.

No, it's simple and honest.

That's what get you, enough to make your heart tightened. While you're busy staring at Sunoo with faint softness and admiration, he was busy glaring down at Sunghoon, almost ready to throw hands with your friend.

Sunghoon, on the other hand, scanned the younger man's face for any ounce of uncertainty, wanting to figure out whether he's telling the truth or lying. But when he found nothing, the realization settled over him almost immediately.

That Sunoo's serious.

He laughed under his breath, the sound quiet but held a lot of weight. "Damn, you really beat my expectations."

Sunoo frowned. "What?"

"Nothing, I've heard enough. I'll leave you two alone. Sounds like you have a lot to talk about," he said, throwing you a playful wink before leaving, returning to the venue, like he hasn't forced the both of you to address the elephant in the room.

The moment the doors shut, silence returned and it's painfully awkward. The kind of silence that you have no choice but to confront it now. You didn't say a thing, watching as Sunoo was the first to react. He sighed, shoulder slumping and ran a hand through his hair, further messing it up in the process. You didn't know what kind of expression he has but you could feel the frustration vibrating through his body.

You bit your lip. "Sunoo, I—"

For the second time in the span of a day, you were being dragged away. Unlike before, your body visibly reacted to Sunoo's touch. The moment his slender fingers encircled itself around your wrist, your breath caught and your heart nearly leapt out of your chest. You stumbled after him, eyes still fixated on the back of his head.

"Where are we going? What about the event?" You managed to ask, looking at the closed doors that only get smaller and smaller with the distance widening.

However, he didn't reward you with an answer, keeping his lips firmly sealed shut. You were left with no choice but to follow him while your heart hammered against your chest at an unsteady rhythm.

~

You ended up in one of the many vacant rooms. You paused, looking around to take in the change of surroundings. There were furniture covered in white cloths. One sweep across the room was enough to tell you it's meant to be used in the future, but you weren't sure of the exact purpose. However, that's not the main reason why you're here.

You crossed your arms, eyes following Sunoo as he paced back and forth, seemingly having an internal conflict with himself.

"Sunoo, what was that about?" You asked, breaking the silence.

No answer.

You pointedly cleared your throat. "Hello? Earth to Kim Sunoo? Anyone home?"

He paid you no mind. The only noise you heard was his footsteps as he goes back and forth. Your left eyebrow twitched, unable to tolerate this any longer and decided to jump into action. You approached him and when you got close enough, you reached out to grab the front of his jacket, brunching the fabric between your fingers.

That finally got his attention, his eyes snapping up to meet yours, taken aback with the sudden and bold move.

"(Name)? What the hell!?" He exclaimed.

"You weren't listening to me and you know I hate it when people don't listen," you retorted, slowly backing him up until he hit the smooth surface of a table, now sandwiched between you and the table.

Sunoo swallowed nervously, his Adam's Apple bobbed up and down. He had to grip the edge of the table, fingers curled around it. He couldn't think about anything else, other than the soothing warmth emitted from your body, able to feel it through the many layers of your clothes, making his heart fluttered and his palms growing sweaty.

"Well? Are you gonna start talking?" you murmured, your voice low and hushed, sounding like a velvety whisper.

Sunoo averted his eyes to the side and you clicked your tongue in disapproval, raising your hand to grab him by his jaw and tilted his head forward. You heard how his breath caught in his throat and how his eyes widened at the mere contact. Just to push it a little further—out of mere curiosity and nothing else (is it?), you leaned in until you're pressed, chest to chest.

You're impressed with how his gaze didn't drop lower, even when you're certain he's able to feel your soft and supple breasts squashed between your bodies. If it was anyone else, you would've flipped them off or called them out for their rude staring.

But when it comes to Sunoo, you didn't mind having his attention.

"Earth to Sunoo? Are you still here or…" Your voice trailed off, lowering further to a sly, knowing and almost seductive purr, "could it be you're distracted?"

"And whose fault is that?" He breathed out, sounding incredibly breathless for someone who didn't do any form of strenuous activities.

"Clearly yours because you're being very stubborn for someone who wanted to fight a man who's twice your size," you pointed out.

His eyes darkened a shade and he moved. You let out a startled gasp when your positions was switched—with you now pinned against the edge of the table and Sunoo barricading you against it. His arms were placed on both sides of your frame, closing off any potential escape routes.

Not that you were planning on fleeing in the first place.

He did the same as you—clasping you by your chin. Your head was tilted back, forcing you to look up a little to be on the same eye level as him, making the apparent invisible height difference more…obvious. Your breath stuttered when he ran his thumb stroked the line of your jaw, his fox-like eyes never leaving your gaze, not even for a split second.

He chuckled, the sound low, breathless and oh so sinful at the same time. Sunoo leaned forward, forcing you to lean further back until you have to prop your elbows on the clothed surface. He's close, so close that your noses grazes one another as your breaths mingled in the same space. Your eyes flicked down to his lips, the pinkish tip of your tongue darting out to wet your own.

Sunoo inhaled sharply—a sound you saved into the back of your mind, craving to hear more of it. You weren't sure who moved first. One moment you're staring at one another and the next, you're kissing. Your mind blanked out the moment his lips met yours. There's no fireworks going off in your mind, no loud and cheering sounds and time didn't slow down.

Instead, it's different.

If anything, you felt at peace, like you've found the source of light after wandering through life without anyone guiding you. Your eyelids fluttered shut, sighing into the kiss—the sound itself filled with nothing but content. Sunoo groaned, low and deep, like it came from the depth of his throat.

The kiss grew heated within the next few seconds. You were pushed down until you're completely laying flat on the table, the edge of the table digging into the underparts of your knees. Sunoo forced you to spread your legs so he's standing in between it. The change of position allowed your cores to align together perfectly, drawing soft moans from the both of you.

You wrapped your arms around him, threading one hand through his hair while the other glided down his chest as you feel him up, savoring the way his breath stuttered and how his stomach muscles contract under your touch. Your fingers fumbled with the first silver button you felt, attempting to unbutton it but Sunoo stopped you, his hand over yours.

"We can't," he murmured, his breath hot against your swollen lips.

He chuckled at your bemused and disappointed look, one hand busying itself to push the fabric of your dress up, revealing more of your skin, inch by inch until your lower half was exposed. Sunoo planted a light, fleeting kiss on the corner of your mouth before trailing butterfly kisses down the expanse of your neck.

You whimpered, nails scrapping against his scalp as you tilted your head back—a silent plea for more and who is he to deny you of what you want?

"So pretty and responsive for me," he purred, voice smooth and sweet like honey, drawing a high-pitch gasp when he nipped at the area under your left ear, feeling your body visibly flinching, pushing yourself further into his chest.

"Sunoo..hngh, do something, p-please," you pleaded, barely able to breathe properly. Your entire body was burning, like you're being burned alive in a furnace.

He cooed, the sound mean, belittling and condescending. "What do you want, pretty? C'mon, be a good girl and tell me what you want. I'll give it to you."

You parted your lips, the words on the tip of your tongue, only for your voice to die when he cupped you through the thin fabrics of your underwear. His palm was warm, one large hand easily engulfing itself over your pussy easily and effortlessly. The sudden contact—feeling a large surface area against where you needed him the most, drew a loud moan, only for it to be cut short when he crashed his lips against yours.

You shivered, body going pliant and mind going gooey when Sunoo ran his tongue along the seam of your lips. You parted your lips obediently, granting him entrance and he explored every inch of your cavern with one slow, thorough lick. You moaned into his mouth at the weird but heavenly sensation of his tongue running along the upperrow of your teeth, making you clenched down on nothing and your underwear to be further stuck against your pussy.

"Please," you sobbed against his mouth.

Sunoo broke the kiss, leaving a string of saliva as he leaned back to take you in. The sight beneath him sent heat straight down to his cock, twitching against the restraint of his trousers. You were so flushed that it even traveled down your body, only to be covered by the fabric of your dress. The thin spaghetti straps had fell off your shoulders, tugged low enough to show off the plump curve of your breasts. Your eyes were glazed over, lips swollen and bruised.

To put it simply, you looked absolutely breathtaking and wrecked, even though he hasn't done anything.

Yet.

"Ah ah, I didn't say you can move, did I?"

He clicked his tongue when he saw you attempting to close your legs, only for him to force you to spread them further apart, like you're presenting yourself to him. Your cheeks turned a darker shade of red—out of mortification and embarrassment, at how exposed you are. Unlike Sunoo—who still looked the same, you're certain you looked nothing but a flushed and needy mess.

You sniffled, eyes turning glossy. "Please.."

"Please what?" He prod further, drawing a frustrated and disappointed sob from you.

Seeing you like this—barely able to utter a coherent word with flushed cheeks and teary eyes nearly made him purred, satisfied that he's the only one who gets to see you like this. Because he's a tease and wants you to work for it, Sunoo inched closer and closer, now wrapping your right leg around his waist.

With this, your cores are aligned together and he moved his hips in a slow, languid motion. You whimpered, eyes nearly rolling to the back of your head at the delirious friction, able to feel the grith of his cock through the annoying fabrics of your clothes. The teasing contact does nothing but to further highlight the emptiness you're feeling and how desperately you wished to be filled to the brim.

Sunoo inhaled, his breath hitching as he looked down, watching with dark and hooded eyes at the visible and evident wet spot on your red lace panties turning darker and darker. His mouth watered, tempted to drop to his knees, to bury his face between your legs, to taste what you have to offer to him.

But he can't. Not when there are still people around. Not when there's a risk of you getting caught and the possessiveness in him doesn't want anyone to see you in your vulnerable state. Not when it's a sight reserved for him and him only.

He pressed down on your clit with his thumb, the light pressure ripping a wrecked cry from you. He sworn under his breath, leaning forward to rest one hand on your waist and the other on the left side of your head, ducking to kiss you while rutting his hips against yours, like a beast in heat. You couldn't kissed him back, whining and moaning into his mouth.

The table moved along with him, the legs scrapping against the polished floor, giving off a series of creaking sounds. Both of you didn't care how someone can walked in on you, choosing to enjoy the current heated moment and the feeling of your bodies pressed together. You arched your back off the table, mouth dropped open in an "O" shape as his cock rubbed against your pussy.

Your lace panties provided enough friction for your toes to curl into itself. Sunoo broke the kiss, burying his face in the crook of your neck.

"S-Sunoo, c-can't," you gasped, words borderline slurring.

"Yeah? You gonna cum, princess? Cum without me fucking you yet?" He cooed.

You whimpered, squeezing your eyes shut at the tightening sensation that's gradually building up at every thrust from him.

"P-Please.. close."

"Cum for me."

At his words, violent shockwaves traversed through your body. Your legs trembled like fallen leaves as you came undone underneath him, right there in the barely furnished room with nothing but covered furniture acting as your witnesses. You knew your lace panties was beyond ruined, the thin fabric soaking up your slick. Sunoo was quick to follow suit, spilling into his boxers.

He collapsed on top of you, face still buried in your sweaty neck. Both of you remained in your current position for a while. The room fell silent, except for your loud breathing as both of you struggle to catch your breath. Sunoo moved, pushing himself up and he helped you to your feet, his hand wrapped around your wrist with a loose but possessive grip.

Your dress automatically fell down, covering your still shaking legs and your embarrassingly wet panties but it's not enough to cover the lingering feeling of his fingers digging into your hips, warm and all the more alluring. At first, none of you spoke, unsure of what to say after all of that. This time, Sunoo was the one who broke the silence, like he had made up his mind and what you just did was the cherry on top.

"(Name), I—"

"Look, just forget it."

Sunoo stilled. "..What?"

You chuckled, the sound shaky. "It was just… a heat of the moment. I wasn't thinking straight and I had too much wine."

He frowned. "But—"

You firmly shook your head, unable to find it in yourself to hear the rest of his sentence. Not when this entire relationship was nothing but fake. Not when you were finally presented with the chance to put some distance between you and him. Not when you can plant your feet down and draw the line.

"No, Sunoo, just.. forget it, alright?" You said, looking at him with a smile that doesn't meet your eyes.

Hurt and disappointment flickered across his face and he clenched his hands into fists. "Are you really sure that's what you want?"

No, it's not. I want more of this. I want this to be real.

You swallowed, shoving the words—the truth, down your throat. "Yeah, I'm sure. No regrets."

His gaze lingered on you, long enough for you to know he's trying to read your mind but not long enough for him to succeed. He sighed, a look of defeat appeared before it was gone when he blinked.

"Fine, if that's what you want. I'll leave first and you can follow afterwards," he said, sparing you one final glance before stepping out once the coast was clear, leaving you to deal with a mess you just created.

All because of your cowardice.

~

You started avoiding Sunoo like he's the plague ever since then. Which was easier said than done, considering how he had gotten on your father's good side—good news for the man but bad news for you. Heck, even your mother warmed up to Sunoo, now treating him like her own son, even telling him he's welcomed anytime.

Your friends—Giselle and Sunghoon, welcomed him with opened arms and friendly smiles. Although, there was still some tension between him and Sunghoon. You weren't blind to the nasty side eyes Sunoo threw at the man, who seemed unfazed, like he's the innocent man here, when he's anything but that.

You, on the other hand, had gave Sunoo the cold shoulder.

Yes, you knew you're a coward and what you're doing is unfair to him. But honestly, can anyone blame you? The thought of your parents finding out the truth had been residing in the back of your mind ever since you and Sunoo shook hands to it. But for the past few days, it grew bigger and bigger until you couldn't avoid it anymore.

To make matters worse, your parents have told you some crucial news. News that you had been waiting for and dreaming about for a long period of time. It happened out of nowhere—just the three of you having dinner in silence. You were stirring your food about, not having the appetite to stomach anything while your mind kept drifting back to a certain university student, only for your father to break the silence.

"(Name), there is something we want to tell you," he started.

At this, you looked up and he continued once you gave him your fullest attention.

"After discussing with the Cho Family, we have decided to cancel the engagement," he announced.

Silence.

It's funny. You have dreamed of this moment—the moment when you were freed from the shackles weighing you down and you could spread your wings, to be free from the arranged marriage.

But yet, you felt nothing but emptiness.

You swallowed, tightening your grip around your utensils and forced a smile onto your face, the kind of smile that doesn't meet your eyes. "Oh, that's great. What about the Cho Family? How did they react?"

Your mother chimed in. "They were fine with the decision. Just like the public, they can see the chemistry you have with Sunoo. It's the kind of chemistry that no one else can replicate. Your father and I will be willing to accept him as your boyfriend and husband, if you've thought that far."

Despite your solemn feelings, your cheeks heat up at the word 'husband'. "We.. We haven't. We're still young and we wish to move at our own pace."

Your parents shared a quick and unreadable look but didn't prod further, much to your relief. Your father had finished his meal, dabbing the corners of his mouth with the napkin before he turned to you, giving you all of his attention.

"For what it's worth, I can see that boy treats you well. Whenever you're together, you're able to smile more and you looked lighter, like he's able to relieve your burdens," he spoke up.

You blinked, surprised by his sudden words. "Father, I—"

It's not like that. We were merely acting. None of it was real to begin with.

He shook off your attempt to speak, leaving you no choice but to keep your lips shut. "Should you ever wish to marry him, I just want you to know you have our blessings."

Your head snapped to your mother, an incredulous look on your face and she nodded in agreement, her eyes softening. Despite the internal conflict you have been dealing with, your eyes turned glossy. You sank your teeth into the plush meat of your bottom lip, stiffing the urge to burst into tears, right there and then.

Maybe it's because your parents have warmed up to someone that doesn't belonged in the same world as you. Maybe it's because they have started accepting Sunoo and treated him like he's their own biological son. Whatever reason it was, it's enough to make your shoulders loosened, just enough for you to breathe without feeling suffocated.

"I… Thank you," you whispered, keeping your eyes lowered to the table, because you didn't have the courage to look them in the eyes, not wanting to ruin the rare, happy and serene moment.

Nor do you have the courage to tell them about your intention. Intention of ending things with Sunoo.

~

"What's gotten into you?"

Sunoo blinked, snapping back to reality to see Jay sitting on the individual couch in the living room. The university student is at the older man's house, deciding to seek for advice from a proper adult. And who to ask from other than his beloved friend—who's married and has a family? Thankfully, the two girls weren't at home and were away for school, saving Sunoo from any further embarrassment.

Jay arched an eyebrow, looking at him from the rim of his mug. "You've been sighing nonstop for the past thirty minutes ever since you came over. Now spill. Don't make me threaten you with violence."

The student rolled his eyes, sinking into the couch and stared at the blank television screen before him. "Hyung, what do you do if you fell for someone but both of you agreed to fake date?"

Silence.

Instead of being surprised or confused with the random but oddly specific question, the man gave him a knowing look, leaning forward to set the mug down on the low coffee table.

"This is about (Name), isn't it?" He asked gently.

The mention of your name made Sunoo flinched and his reaction didn't go unnoticed by his friend. He raised his head—all wide eyes with surprise written all over his face.

"How…?"

Jay snorted. "Don't tell me you've forgotten the fact that your faces was plastered everywhere on social media? I don't know if you knew it but her marriage with the Cho Family is called off."

Sunoo's mind was spinning. "Wait… does that mean…?"

"Yeah, I know you're fake dating (Name) and with your previous question, it's obvious you've fallen for her. It's also obvious why you two fake date in the first place. She might contact you sooner or later, wanting to tell you to break up but Sunoo, it's up to you whether you want to follow her decision or not."

"Hyung, what are you saying?"

Jay rolled his eyes but despite that, the faint smile was filled with nothing but fondness. "I'm saying, if you want to make her truly yours, you need to step up and be a man."

The younger went quiet, pursing his lips in a straight line as he pondered over his friend's words. "But how do I do that? She's stubborn and no matter what I say, she won't listen to me."

At this, Jay's eyes gleamed with mischief. "How about I ask two adorable helpers to help you with your situation?"

"Oh no, hyung, don't tell me you're gonna ask your kids for help…"

"Just trust me."

"That's tough."

"Hey! Show some respect to your seniors!"

~

It turned out Jay's so-called brilliant plan was for you and Sunoo to help babysit his two daughters together. Jay being the impatient and impulsive man he is, had told his kids that Sunoo will be taking care of them for the whole day tomorrow. Children being children, were overjoyed when they heard someone will be joining their beloved uncle for babysitting duty.

He had texted you—the message itself was short and brief.

Sunoo: hey, i know you don't wanna hear from me again but i'm gonna babysit my friend's children tomorrow and i need your help, please? my friends couldn't make it.

He felt bad for lying but as the saying goes, drastic times called for drastic measures. Drastic times referred to him forcing his way through to make you talked to him while drastic measures referred to him accepting Jay's help, much to his annoyance.

After sending the message, he thought you'd leave him on delivered or read. But to his surprise, you replied within five minutes, like you had been waiting for his message.

You: alright, just send me the address and i'll be there tomorrow.

Sunoo couldn't help but feel disappointed when he saw your response. You didn't ask any questions but then again, what could you even asked? Nonetheless, he sent you the address, sighing when you read it and didn't answer.

Which brought Sunoo to his current situation—him waiting anxiously for you to arrive. Jay and his wife were away—the loving husband decided to bring his wife away for a short three-days vacation, so the two adults can spend some time away from their children, leaving both Nari and Baekhwa in his care.

Knock knock.

Sunoo sprung up from the couch the moment someone knocked on the door. Thankfully, the two girls paid him no mind, eyes glued to the television while they watched their favorite cartoon shows that was currently airing now. He slipped away, making a beeline to the door and opened it, revealing none other than you on the other side.

And god, does he want to pull you into his arms, maybe shake you until you spill the beans and many other things. Seeing you again after the past two to three weeks without any contact felt like a breath of fresh air. You were dressed casually—a black turtleneck with a pair of gray high-waisted pants with a belt wrapped around your waist.

"Uh, hello? Earth to Sunoo?" You called out, waving your hand in front of him.

He blinked. "O-Oh, sorry, I spaced out," he moved aside, allowing you to enter.

When you walked past him, he's able to get a strong whiff of your perfume, the fragrance enough to nearly make him lose his mind. Sunoo quickly moved to close the door and his ears registered two pairs of light footsteps heading his way.

"Uncle, who's this?" Nari asked, looking at you with wide, round and curious eyes.

You and Sunoo shared a glance, like you're able to read one another's minds. When he saw you're about to introduce yourself, he was quick to cut you off, praying with his entire heart that you will go with the flow and not embarrass him in front of the kids.

"This is my girlfriend, (Name)," he declared and to make it more believable, he draped his arm around your waist, pulling you closer until you're squashed against his side.

Sunoo pointedly ignored the bewildered look you threw his way, no doubt confused with what he blurted out. To his relief, you didn't call him out for his bluff in front of the kids, allowing him to have some form of self dignity. Nari gasped out loud, a look of awe now on her face and her sister—Baekhwa, approached you.

With the drastic height difference, the girl had to tilt her head back to look at you.

"You're very pretty!" She exclaimed, complimenting you.

You were taken aback by the sudden compliment but lowered yourself until you're eye-level with Baekhwa. From where he stood, Sunoo could see your features softened and the soft tone you used when you talked to her. Somehow, seeing you going all soft and sweet with kids is making him feel things.

"Thank you, you're very pretty too. What's your name?" You asked, reaching out to pat her head, drawing a shy and pleased giggle from her.

"I'm Baekhwa! And this is my sister, Nari! Is it true you're Uncle Sunoo's girlfriend?" She asked, wasting no time in beating around the bush.

You glanced up at him, pausing slightly when you noticed he has been staring at your interaction with Baekhwa the entire time with a firm and unwavering gaze. It's clear he's eavesdropping on your brief conversation, wanting to hear your response. You swallowed, tearing your eyes away from Sunoo and turned back to the girl, who's waiting with an expectant glint in her eyes.

Call yourself a softie or whatever, but you're not going to be the cause for the light in her eyes to dim away, which was why you chuckled and nodded.

"Yeah, I'm his girlfriend," you answered.

The way he sharply inhaled didn't go unheard by you and you tucked that aside, making a mental note to question him when the kids isn't around. Clearing your throat, you rose to your full height and clapped your hands together, gaining everyone's attention.

"So, is there anything you two wanna do?" You inquired.

"Let's play house!" Nari exclaimed, jumping up and down on the spot but her brief moment of happiness was ruined by Sunoo throwing her a warning look.

"Nari, don't tell me you've forgotten the promise we made? You need to do your homework or else your teacher will be angry," he chided.

"Whattt? But I don't wanna!" She whined, puffing her cheeks, in an attempt to make herself as adorable as possible.

This time, it was your turn to watch as Sunoo crouched down so they were at eye-level. His eyes softened, reaching out to grab Nari's hands with his own and ran a thumb along her small knuckles.

"Nari, do you want me to tell your father?" He asked, raising an eyebrow.

The mention of her father made her gulped, freezing. "N-No! Don't tell papa!"

Sunoo nodded, his eyes twinkling with mischief as his lips tugged upward in an amused smirk. "Are you sure? If you don't want me to tell him, will you do your homework now?"

"Yes, Uncle Sunoo! I'll do it right now!"

Before any of you could react, the young and short girl sprinted back to the living room. You were able to hear the rustling sounds of her digging through her bag, most likely searching for her homework. Sunoo looked down when something was pulling at his pants, to see Baekhwa raising her arms—a silent request for upsies.

He obliged, easily picking her up with one arm supporting her from below while the other adjusted her in his arms. Baekhwa giggled, clearly on cloud nine with her small hands gripping the front of his shirt.

"Uncle Sunoo, can I play with (Name)!?" She asked, her body practically vibrating with excitement.

He glanced at you and you shook your head, gesturing to the flight of wooden stairs behind him subtly. He knew your implication, giving the girl an apologetic look.

"Sorry princess, but (Name) and I need to discuss something and it's important. Go and help your sister with homework and we'll be back once we're done," he said.

Thankfully, she didn't question him further, nodding and he set her down. Once she was out of sight, Sunoo led the way to the second floor by taking the short flight of stairs. He brought you to the guestroom that's also his room whenever he's babysitting the kids. The moment he closed the door, you wasted no time in jumping on him.

"What the hell was that, Sunoo? Why did you tell them that I'm your girlfriend?" You asked, crossing your arms with a scowl on your face, the previous soft and friendly facade now washed down the drain.

He snorted and copied your posture, leaning against the door behind him. "And why not? I don't see anything wrong."

Your left eyebrow twitched. "Have you forgotten the reason why we're fake dating in the first place? It's to convince my parents to call off the marriage."

He was unfazed, cool and collected while you, on the other hand, was seething with rage and frustration. It felt like a one-sided tense argument that was about to burst at any moment.

Sunoo didn't look away, his gaze fixated on your face. "I remember that crystal clear. But, what if I were to tell you that I don't want this to be fake anymore?"

You faltered. "What are you talking about?"

He chuckled under his breath, the sound itself rather bittersweet. "Do you really not get it?"

Your breath stuttered. You knew perfectly well what he meant. You knew the meaning behind his words, which does nothing but to confirm your deepest fears. You clenched and unclenched your fists, your arms resting by your sides. Seeing the lack of response and hesitation from you, Sunoo pushed himself off the door, approaching you at a slow, steady pace, like a predator stalking its prey before pouncing.

This went on until the back of your knees hit the edge of the bed. You gasped, your vision tilting backward as you fell. Sunoo was quick to follow—pinning you down one knee between your legs, close but oh so far. His hands was braced on the neatly-made sheets, wrinkling it in the process. The way he stared down at you made your cheeks flushed, feeling all shy, small and vulnerable.

You looked to the side, hearing him clicking his tongue in disapproval. Sunoo moved, grabbing your chin, dragging you back, forcing you to face him.

"What's wrong? Getting all shy on me now? What happened to the loud and bratty attitude from before?" He taunted, his voice dropping to the condescending tone, sending shivers down your spine.

"You piss me off," you retorted but despite yourself, your words were borderline shaking. Sunoo could hear it. Of course he does, with the knowing smirk stretching across his face.

"Oh, do I? Then, why aren't you pushing me away?" He purred. Just to further prove his point, he tilted your head further back and leaned in, close enough for his breath to graze your lips.

Your eyes betrayed you, instinctively flicking down to his own lips. Your lack of answer and slight hesitation satisfied him.

"You know, you talk a lot but the moment you're beneath me, you become putty and quiet. You need to be put in your place, sweetheart. Bratty girls like you need to learn what happens if you keep crossing the line," he murmured, pressing his thumb down on your bottom lip and pulled it down, watching how you willingly let him do whatever he wants.

"Sunoo…" You whimpered, the sound leaving before you could stopped yourself.

He sworn under his breath, heat shooting straight down to his cock which twitched against the hard, uncomfortable restraints of his jeans. He felt it—the last remaining shreds of his sanity leaving his body the moment you whimpered his name.

"Fuck, you drive me crazy."

He didn't give you time to muster a response, craning his head forward to kiss you. Sunoo tilted your head to the side, allowing the kiss to deepen as he practically shoved you further into the sheets. He felt the way your body melted underneath him—how you wrapped your arms around his shoulders, yanking him closer and how you obediently parted your lips for him.

He was wary enough to not rest his entire weight on you, not wanting to crush you. He moved his knee further up, simply touching your core through the fabric of your pants, drawing a high-pitched and breathless whimper from you. Your hips jerked upward, only to get pinned down by him, one hand gripping your waist, hard enough to leave searing indents behind.

"Do you know what I've been thinking about ever since the event?" He murmured through the kiss, lips hovering over yours, like he couldn't bear to be separated. "I thought about how sweet you sounded, falling apart for me. About how good you were to me, how you begged and how needy you become when you're close."

You outright mewled at his crude words. Sunoo didn't have to look down to know you're dripping wet between your legs, the thought making him smirked.

Instead of kissing you again, he moved down, leaving wet and sloppy kisses along your neck, having to pull your turtleneck down so he can have more access. Your pulse stuttered when he nipped at your skin, hard enough to make you jerked. While his mouth was busy leaving marks on your skin, his hands moved like they have a mind of its own.

He traced the silhouette of your body, fingers playing with the hem of your pants. He pushed your turtleneck up from below, wanting to see more of you when—

"Uncle Sunoo? Are you there?"

Both of you froze, like a pair of deers caught in headlights. The seemingly innocent question from Nari felt like a harsh slap to the face, reminding you of the reality and the rather scandalous position you're in. You stared at one another, wearing the same flustered and caught off-guard look, only for you to react first.

"Ow!"

Sunoo yelped when he was roughly shoved to the side, landing on the bed with a slight bounce. He remained in his new position, watching with wide eyes and an offended look as you stood up, patting down your hair and clothes—attempting to look as decent as possible, even if your hands were shaking.

You didn't spare him any ounce of your attention, spedwalking to the door and opening it, revealing Nari standing on the other end.

"Oh, Aunty (Name)! You're here too!" She greeted you, "wait, why were you in the same room with Uncle Sunoo? Were you arguing?"

You choked on your spit, able to feel his intense gaze boring holes through your head. "No, it's nothing. We're done talking. Have you finished your homework?"

Nari's face lit up like a lightbulb. "Yes! Lemme show you!"

She grabbed your hand—hers adorably small as compared to yours, leading you down the stairs and taking you away from Sunoo's sights, leaving him on the bed. The previous intense heat had settled down, now wrapped around him like an invisible embrace. His mind drifted back to the way you submitted to him without resistance, drawing a long and heavy sigh from him as he ran a hand through his hair.

He's done waiting and he made up his mind—to make you rightfully his at the end of the day. And it was only a matter of time before that happens. He just needs to play his cards right.

~

Safe to say, you found yourself distracted for the rest of the day. You tried to maintain your composure—distracting yourself by playing with both Nari and Baekhwa, entertaining the kids to the best of your ability. But it was easier said than done, especially when the source of your dilemma was seated right beside you.

Sunoo sat on your right, sitting way too close for your fragile, wavering heart. He's so close that your clothed knees knocked into one another whenever one of you shifted. To make matters worse, the way he sat wasn't helping either—one arm draped across the back of the couch and his hand resting on his lap. And of course, his legs were spread open in a manspreading position.

You kept peering at him from the corner of your eyes whenever he wasn't watching while Nari sat on your lap, rambling about something. You alternated between humming and nodding here and there, not wanting to get called out for not listening to her.

Right now, it was close to nine in the late hours of the night. Both Nari and Baekhwa were already fast asleep in their respective bedrooms, taking their nap after playing and exhausting themselves. You were clearing the mess the two kids left behind while Sunoo had stepped away, most likely calling someone as he stood in the kitchen.

Once you were done and the coffee table was clear of any mess, you sat back down on the couch and your mind starts to wander—unable to get rid of the feeling that whatever you're doing, it felt strangely domestic, like you're married to Sunoo, having two young and energetic kids of your own and being able to afford a cozy, comfortable home for yourselves.

Fuck, what is happening to you? You're supposed to end this and not digging a deeper hole for yourself.

"…me?" Hello?"

You blinked, perking up to see Sunoo waving his hand as he stood before you, his phone held in his left hand.

"Jeez, what's gotten into you? I've been calling out your name and you were spaced out," he pointed out, "do you want pepperoni pizza? We can share."

You nodded, ignoring your heart pounding against your chest. "Yeah, sounds good to me."

He nodded and sat back down on the couch and just like before, he's glued to your side. You inhaled, shoulders tensing and going as still as a statue, able to feel the heat emitted from his body. You nearly shot up from the couch when Sunoo placed his free hand on your knee, drawing random patterns on it.

"Sunoo…"

"Yes?"

You gulped, eyes dipping down to his hand. "What are you doing?"

"Nothing," he innocently answered but his action was anything but innocent.

You didn't push him away, watching with your heart hammering as his hand trailed higher and higher, moving along your leg until he's holding your waist in a gentle but possessive grip. Your breath audibly hitched, body heating up when he slide it under your turtleneck—giving you a sense of deja vu, reminding you of the intense and heated moment you had in the guest room a few hours ago.

You breathed in, curling your fingers in when Sunoo traced the hem of your pants with his fingers. He then does something that caught you off-guard, making your heart fluttered.

He hooked his fingers through the belt and in a smooth, fluid motion, yanked you over until you fell into his lap. You squeaked like a mouse, hands scrambling, only to grab the back of the couch while the other grabbed onto his right shoulder. With this, you're straddling him, on the couch and in his friend's living room.

The turtleneck you worn was tugged upward, showing off an inch of your skin—the sight further spurring Sunoo, who's craving to see more of it.

"We can't. The kids are gonna wake up," you whispered frantically, leaning back when he tried to kiss you.

He gave you a flat and unimpressed look, both hands now on your waist. "I've been patient, (Name), waiting to have you like this for a long time. But since you brought it up…"

His voice trailed off. In a blink of an eye, he flipped your positions—resulting in you now seated on the couch with him kneeling between your legs that were thrown over his shoulders. Heat pooled in your stomach at his eyes clouded in desire.

He smirked dangerously, the sight making you clenched on nothing. "Then you best be quiet. Wouldn't want them to wake up to see you ruined, do you?"

He didn't wait, impatiently yanking your pants down and flung it aside, not caring where it landed, leaving you wearing the turtleneck and your soaked pastel blue underwear. He made a cooing sound, dragging you further down the couch until your bottom half was hovering in the air. You made a strangled sound as Sunoo buried his face between your legs. Your thighs trembled at the sensation of him inhaling, almost like he's in heaven.

"Sun—oh!"

You cried out, quickly slapping a hand over your mouth when he licked you through the thin fabric of your underwear. His tongue is hot and wet, ripping another muffled moan from you. You gripped onto the couch's armrest for dear life, to ground yourself while the other remained on your mouth—reminding yourself to be mindful of your volume.

But it was easier said than done.

You didn't register him tugging it aside, kicking your legs up when he licked a long and flat swipe from your entrance to your pulsing, aching clit. You squeezed your eyes shut—a grave mistake on your part, for it does nothing but to heighten your sense of touch, feeling the sharp tip of his nose poking your entrance.

You couldn't register the sounds you're making—a series of muffled, barely audible moans, whines and mewls that kept spilling from your lips as Sunoo feasted on you like a starving man. The way he ate you out felt like you were being devoured from inside and outside. It's messy but calculative, like he's trying different methods to figure out what makes you fold, what makes you squirm and what makes you tipped over the edge.

You let out an embarrassingly high-pitch moan, your hand barely doing anything at this point as he wrapped his lips around your protruding click before sucking on it, hard. The sudden, piercing sensation made you arched off the couch, your turtleneck sticking to your skin uncomfortably as sweat trickled down your face.

Without moving back, Sunoo reached up to drag your hand away—the very same hand that's covering your mouth and intertwined your fingers together, pinning it down on the couch, leaving you in a helpless position as you're forced to take what he gives you. You sank your teeth into your bottom lip, nails digging further into the armrest until your knuckles turned white.

"Don't be shy, princess. Let me hear you," he murmured, peering up at you beneath his eyelashes, his breath fanning against your soaked pussy.

You sobbed when he buried his face deeper—a feat you didn't know was possible, his tongue sliding in and reaching places you didn't know was reachable too. Your free hand moved before you could think twice, pulling your turtleneck up, succeeding in taking it off and dumped it on the couch, showing off the simple, plain color bra underneath.

Sunoo groaned, eyes raking over your heaving chest appreciatively, greedily drinking in the sight before him without any shame. Determined to hear more angelic sounds from you, he ran two fingers along your puffy, dripping folds, collecting your slick and rubbed it together. You felt him experimentally poking his fingers against your entrance, waiting for your permission.

"P-Please," you gasped, your eyes still squeezed shut.

"Nuh uh. Open your eyes and tell me what you want," he demanded, doing quick kitten licks to your swollen and pulsing red clit, eliciting a series of choked whimpers from you.

You swallowed, complying with his demand. The sight before you nearly made you cum right and then. His eyes were half-lidded, hair strands falling over them but it did nothing to hide the evident lust clouded in them. You didn't have to lift your head up to know the lower half of his face was covered in a layer of your arousal. It's a scene straight out of a pornographic movie.

You whimpered, tightening your grip on his hand that was pinned down on the couch. "Please.. wan' you."

He tutted, tracing his fingers up and down along the seam of your folds, still waiting. "You gotta be more specific. What do you want?"

You sobbed, frustrated with how he's dragging this minigame. "Mean. You're so mean," you babbled.

Instead of being offended with your words, Sunoo chuckled, low deep and dangerous. You knew you've crossed the line, with how his eyes darkened a shade. Much to your sheer disappointment, he withdrew, still kneeling on the floor with your legs hoisted over his shoulders.

"Mean?" He repeated, mocking your tone. "You didn't answer my question and now you're calling me mean? Seems like you need to be taught a lesson."

Maybe it's the way he talked to you in that sinful, belittling tone. Maybe it's the way he looked you, like you're beneath him and isn't worth much. Whatever it was, the words slipped from your mouth before your fogged mind could catch up.

"If you don't fuck me right now, I'll ask Hajoon to fuck me instead," you snapped.

Silence.

The next few seconds of silence that followed was thick and tense, cackling with tension threatening to explode. You watched with wide eyes as Sunoo slowly rose to his full height. His hands moved—one covered in your slick while the other's still clean, working on unbuckling his trousers. The sound of the button and zip coming undone echoed in the quiet living room—foreshadowing what's to come.

He pulled both his trousers and Calvin Klein boxers down, low enough to free his cock. You gulped as it sprung free from the restraints, watching how it slapped against his shirt as it stood upright. The mushroomy tip had turned an angry shade of red from the lack of attention, a bead of precum sitting on the slit, on the verge of rolling down.

"On your hands and knees."

Huh?

You blinked, snapping out of your staring trance, looking at him with a dazed look. Your lack of response only annoyed him, making him scowled. He reached out, manhandling you to his desired position. Sunoo shoved your face into the couch, not bothering to give you any cushion to support yourself as he climbed onto the couch.

The space was small and cramped, your left knee hovering dangerously close to the edge but you didn't care. Your back was arched in an awkward angle as you were presented to him, with your ass facing him. You screamed when the fat mushroomy tip pushed past your folds, shoving his fat and thick cock in without warning.

Your mouth dropped open, forming an "O" shape, eyes rolling to the back of your head at the overwhelming pain from being stretched beyond your limit. Sunoo was generous and patient enough to let you adjust to the sudden intrusion. He hissed when you unconsciously tightened around him, almost like you're sucking him in, never wanting him to leave.

Wrapping his hand around your neck while the other rested on your hip, fingers brushing against your hipbones, he pulled out until his tip was still inside you before slamming back in again.

"Ngh!"

You moaned and Sunoo took that as his greenlight to continue, setting a steady pace. The living room was filled with the lewd, obscene sounds of skin slapping against skin and your moans that blended in seamlessly, creating an orchestra where the two of you are the players while your bodies is the instruments.

You didn't know you're even drooling, unable to close your mouth as all of your senses focused on the intoxicating feeling of his cock sliding in and out of you, reshaping your insides to the shape and outline of his cock. Your hand slipped and you braced it on the floor, scraping your nails against it as you further arched your back, pushing yourself back against him.

"Sun-Sunoo, f-fuck, more, hah," you babbled, your eyes going misty and dazed.

He leaned forward, pressing his clothed chest against your naked back, saved from you still wearing your bra and whispered into your left ear, his hot breath grazing your sensitive skin at every word he spoke.

"Can that fiance of yours fuck you better like I do, hm? Does he know how much of a cockslut you are?" He taunted, each word dripping with evident malice and jealously.

You didn't have the heart to correct him, to tell him the marriage was already called off, too far gone to ponder over his words. A series of "ah, ah, ah" left your lips when he shifted the angle slightly, his tip kissing that one spongy spot hidden between your gummy walls. Sunoo knew he hits bulleyes from your reaction, wasting no time in abusing the same spot, over and over.

The hand previously on your hips moved up, tracing along your spine, leaving goosebumps and heat behind in his wake. He expertly unbuckled your bra, letting it fall forward, freeing your bouncing breasts. Your nipples hardened immediately at the cool air. Sunoo grabbed one of it, kneading the plush flesh like it's dough, groaning when you tightened around him.

The thought of potentially being caught by the kids had long left your minds, only thinking about chasing after your pleasure. Your knees buckled, nearly giving way but Sunoo was faster. With impressive strength, he grabbed your left leg by the knee and hooked it backward, forcing you to hook it around his hips.

The change of position allowed him to slide deeper, until you sworn you could feel his cock kissing the entrance of your womb. He moaned, burying his face in the crook of your neck, tongue darting out to lick the sweat off your skin, tasting saltiness on his tongue.

"What if I put a baby in here? Will it take?" He grunted, spreading his fingers across your belly, able to feel the faint outline of his cock as he continued pounding into you.

"Please.. w-wan' it," you begged, looking over your shoulder, giving him wide and teary eyes.

"Yeah? You want it, baby? Want me to fill you up? Pump you full and make you carry my children?" He cooed, hand snaking further down to rub at your engorged clit that's stretch obscenely wide around his cock.

You keened and he took that as a yes, now pistoning his hips with a newly found determination. The determination to get you pregnant. Sunoo can see it—you with your stomach swelling, waddling about in your home, looking down at your unborn child or children, with a fond smile on his face.

Just thinking about it was enough for him to cum, spilling deep inside you as he painted your walls white while he continued fucking into you, like an animal in heat. You whined at the feeling of being filled to the brim, stomach bludging slightly and your orgasm followed shortly. Your walls violently convulsed around his cock, milking him dry as you squirted, spraying everywhere—your sweaty bodies, the floor and even the couch.

The living room soon fell silent, with both of you still laying on the couch and Sunoo still buried inside you. He slowly turned you around, seeing your flushed cheeks, dried tearstains and glossy eyes. And yet, you're still as beautiful as ever, even after looking like a wrecked mess. He gingerly brushed a few hair strands away from your face, tucking them behind your right ear, searching for any discomfort.

"You alright?" He asked softly, lips jutting out in a pout.

You stared at him, nodding weakly. "Yeah.. I'm fine. We should probably clean before they wake up."

Sunoo ignored your words, pulling you closer so he can embraced you. He changed your position slightly so you're laying on top of his chest, able to hear the beating of his heart with your ear directly resting on top of it.

"Sunoo—"

"Shhh, just let me hold you like this and then we clean," he interrupted, patting your head and honestly, who were you to deny him?

~

You only gave him five minutes before forcing him to his feet, chiding at him to clean and get rid of the evidence before the kids wake up. It took both of you twenty minutes to freshen up and clean the couch to the best of your abilities, before you're now seated at the dining table, eating the pizza Sunoo had ordered.

None of you said a word, until you broke it, unable to hide it any longer.

"So… what happens to us now?" You asked, voice soft but audible for him to hear.

He didn't answer immediately, taking his time in chewing the mouthful of food. "I don't want this to be fake. At least, it wasn't fake to me anymore. I want this and us to be real."

Your eyes widened, the half-eaten pizza held in your hand starts slipping from your loose grasp. "…You're serious?"

He nodded firmly. "Yes, I am. I know we initially agreed to fake date until your parents called off the marriage. I know it's supposed to be fake but ever since I met your parents, things start to change. I noticed many things about you—how you played with your fingers when you're nervous, how you bit your lips when you're hesitating and how you scrunched your nose when you get annoyed. And for what it's worth, I don't regret agreeing to fake date you."

Your pulse stuttered, heart nearly leaping out of your chest at his sincere and heartfelt words. "I…I don't know what to say."

Sunoo shot you a pointed look. "You could've said anything but that, you know. Especially after we just fucked."

"Sunoo!"

He threw his hands up in mocked surrender. "What? I'm just saying! But enough about me, isn't there something you need to tell me? I know you're hiding something from me. Call it a guy's instinct."

Instead of deflecting or avoiding his question, you let out a relented sigh, eyes dipping to stare at a random spot of the table. "My parents called off the marriage. They've also given us their blessings if we get married in the future."

Sunoo remained silent, knowing you weren't done yet.

"I thought I'd be happy when they told me but I felt nothing. No excitement. Instead, I thought of you," you smiled to yourself, "I thought that since it's over and as per what we discussed, it's only right for me to end the relationship. You shouldn't be chained to someone like me for the rest of your life. You deserve someone better and—"

"I don't care about that."

You stopped when he cut you off, his voice firm. Sunoo stood from his chair, the four legs scrapping against the floor. He walked round the table until he stood at your side. You remained seated, watching as he cupped your face with his hands, thumbs tracing your jawline, causing your heart to skip a beat at the light, fleeting contact.

"I don't care if we're born in different worlds. I don't care that dating you means there's expectations I have to meet or my face will be plastered on social media. I only care about you, (Name)," he murmured.

You blinked, unaware of tears rolling down your cheeks until he shifted his thumbs up, wiping them away with such tenderness that it made you melt.

"But, you should be. You should care about the public. What if they call you a gold digger? What if your life gets ruined because of them?" You protested.

Sunoo chuckled, leaning down to press his forehead against yours. "Silly girl, they can call me all kinds of names for all they want. I don't give a damn to what they have to say as long as I have you by my side. I love you, (Name)."

And that was the final straw. Fresh tears freely rolled down your cheeks as you sobbed and wept like a baby. Seeing this, Sunoo cooed, pulling you into a much-needed and comforting embrace as he ran his hand through your hair, allowing you to cry to your heart's content, not caring about the awkward position putting a strain on his back.

"You're such a crybaby," he teased, voice soft and filled with fondness once you've calmed down.

"Yeah, but I'm your crybaby now," you retorted with a wavering voice.

He paused and when your words sink in, he smiled from ear to ear. "Yeah, you are."

You giggled, inching forward to kiss his cheek. "For the record, I love you too."