I THINK IM GONNA DIE IN THIS HOUSE (LITERALLY) SMAU
Synopsis (SMAU): There's no harm in forcing your friends to a haunted house for a party- at least there's free food! Also, it's totally normal to get bit by a vampire dressed theme worker, right?....Right?
Warnings: Cursing, Slight bullying(all fun and games), Crack, Fluff, Mentions of biting, Reader having absolutely no survival instincts(help)
Pairings: Fem!Reader x OT7!Enhypen
Pls comment if you'd like to be added to the taglist!
Author where are u.....r u going to continue the enhypen smau??
hey...how yall doing......... * looks around nervously * also YESS i will be finishing the ITIGDIH smau!! im sorry for my much abrupt absence but i've been running all over the place with some personal stuff. dont worry though im finally BACKKK YAYYY!!! new chapter will mostly be out by saturday!
HOW DO U HAVE ACCESS TO SO MANY FONT COLORS AND HOW TF DO U MIX AND MATCH AND MERGE THEM HELLO IM CRASHING OUT RN 😭🙏
HII SWEETS I ACTUALLY HAD A HARD TIME FIGURING THIS OUT TOO 😭😭😭 don't worry tho i am here to help!! you can refer to this or this tutorial right here!! i hope i could be of help!! <3
Synopsis: Lilies are something Riki shows up with every week - may it be through school, college or even marriage. One day he brings home plastic ones, joking about how the real ones withering makes him upset. He promises to bring you fresh flowers after his flight next week - so why is the vase still sitting with the dusty unscented fake ones?
Pairings: Commercial pilot!N.Riki x Wife!Reader
Theme: Doomed lovers, Slow burn(kinda), friends to lovers, various settings and timelines (they grow up together), They're so in love lol, Ft. Heeseung, Sunoo and Jungwon, (One skz meme reference)
Warnings: Fluff, Slight suggestiveness, Angst, No comfort, Major character death, Hints of depression at the end
Word Count: 12.7k
Mikki's Note: Helloo!! This is my first ever fic and I'm quite nervous about it, but writing this was so fun! Honestly i didn't know if i should write angst for my first post but I've had this idea forever lololl... i really hope you guys like it! Also, english isn't my first language so please excuse any grammatical errors. Comments, likes and reblogs are much much appreciated! Enjoy <333
The album flips to a picture of you and Riki in your senior year of high school - capturing your very first kiss.
You’d known Riki since you were 14 - curious eyes peering at the new student who had transferred from Japan. He was quite a bubbly child back then, always participating in the latest dance competitions and cracking jokes amidst a serious classroom.
You and him weren't really meant to cross paths, not with him being so bright and social, and you - reserved and opting to maintain your peace. You’d thought he would be like every other boy you admired - keeping distance, sending a polite smile or two. But that all changed on a random Tuesday.
Laughter bubbles in your throat at the memory as you unconsciously rotate the beautiful engagement ring on your finger, heart swelling up with love, the same way it did all those years ago. If it weren't for him, you don’t think you would've ever made the efforts to even interact with the boy.
“.…Is that The Girl in the Glass Case?” the voice snaps you out of your dazed peace and the chair beside you screeches before a figure drops into it. Nishimura Riki - one of the popular kids from the school’s dance crew. You pause your finger flipping the page and crane your neck to stare at him, his sudden presence catching you off guard. “Uh…yea.”
He hums. Why is he even here? Let alone speaking to you? Do you have something on your face? He’s been staring for too long-
“You’re in my class right? Third row last seat?” Your mouth opens and closes like a fish, brain working too fast. A very stiff nod seemingly satisfies him, and he shifts his focus onto the book again.
“Its an interesting book. Do you like thrillers?” Honestly, you don’t know what prompted this. Its not like you are friends, but the way he’s so casually attempting a conversation - limbs relaxed and eyes trailed on the spine of the book - makes you quirk your lips up. “Quite a lot, actually.”
The two of you fall into easy conversation after that, save for the initial awkwardness. You barely spend an hour together before he announces that he has to leave, but the short period of time changes your perspective about him. Hes very different than what you'd thought to be.
"Don’t you have Biology class now? Come, I’ll walk you.” He slings his bag onto his shoulder and pushes the chair back. Stuffing your material into your bag, you imitate his actions before passing him a small smile. “Lets go.”
Interactions are limited to polite smiles and casual conversations about the class and your respective well being after that - and even if one may think that this is quite normal, it’s the start of a new acquaintanceship for you. You aren't one to interact with his group like the other kids of your class - not because they're rude or arrogant - no. But mostly because you shy away from the attention.
This limits your conversations with him, but you always find each other passing small smiles or chipping in points to each other’s ideas during group discussions. You're content with this easy atmosphere between the two of you, not really expecting much association with him individually after the library incident. Oh, if only you knew how much of your thoughts and space the Japanese boy would take up in the future.
𓈒⠀𓂃⠀⠀˖⠀𓇬⠀˖⠀⠀𓂃⠀𓈒
The music bleeds through the hallways, filling the empty space with the sounds of violin and piano. You're just about wrapping up with your club agenda for next week, rubbing a hand across your face to wipe away some of the tiredness seeping through your bones.
Being the president of the literary club demands dedication, effort and time. More so of the latter. And so you find yourself sitting in the vacant club room - long after the school hours have ended and the hallways gone quiet - trying to jot down points for the next activity.
You slump in your chair after some futile efforts, opting against finishing the agenda and rather having half the mind to dash home and binge watch the entire season of Two Broke Girls again. But one thing about you is that you’re awfully adamant on finishing whatever you start. Its something that has caused you to often neglect your health many a time.
Just as you pick up your pen, your hear the violin again, and your brows furrow. The schools good as empty now, save for some of the cleaning staff….so where’s the sound coming from? The hasty writing of yours stares back at you, as if trying to get you to finish it fast.
The chair ultimately screeches back, and you get up, closing the book. A small break wont hurt, right? Your feet drag you out of the room and into the hall, the music getting louder. The closer you walk to the dance room, the more it amplifies. You come to a halt right in front of the dark blue door, which guards the source of the melody gracing your ears.
The pads of your fingertips connect to the cool metal of the handle and you hesitate just for a beat, before slowly cracking the door open. You immediately spot a figure inside - a boy, and your first thought is to close the door and go about your work again. You wouldn’t want to intrude.
But before your brain can even catch up with you, his head snaps towards the door and he freezes mid step. Staring right back at you with surprise gleaming in his eyes, is Riki. You’re already moving to close the door before he can process the situation. “I am so sorry, I didn’t know you were in here and I swear I didn’t mean to disturb your routine, its just I thought someone left the player on again and-”
“Stay.” His voice cuts smoothly through your rambling and you freeze, hand still on the handle - and the thin line of sweat forming on it. “I mean, I don’t mind if you stay.” He adds on quickly after taking in your response. You debate it for a second, but the way hes looking at you so expectantly makes you step inside and shut the door.
He passes you a small smile before wordlessly restarting his routine again and you cozy yourself in the corner of the room, body slumped against the wall. Your eyes follow his movements in the mirror, watching how he moves so gracefully - as if he doesn’t have to take any efforts to execute the dance.
His eyes lock with yours briefly and you look away, embarrassed for being caught. He probably thinks you're weird and creepy now-
But he smiles. You don’t catch it of course, too busy over-thinking and fiddling with your necklace to notice.
Cute.
Riki drops beside you after his routine ends, a bit too close for someone who you strongly consider an acquaintance at best. “What are you doing here?” He runs a hand through his sweaty hair and chugs his water down, eyeing you curiously.
You look at him confused. “Oh sorry. I meant to ask what you were doing in school this late. It’s almost 5PM.”
“Club work.” You sigh, resting your cheek on your knees pulled close. “I have to finish planning activities for next week. Miss Kim wants us to host an event to convince other people to join.” He listens to you speak and wonders if its possible for someone to be so soft spoken.
A comfortable silence settles between the two of you then, the occasional honk of a car in the distance the only sound disrupting it. He mirrors your position after a while, beady eyes poring into you.
“Can I ask you something?” A hum vibrates in your chest. “Yes?”
“Do you want to do this often? I mean- hang out. I want to get to know you. Not just the classmate version of you.”
You fall silent for a beat. “…why?” you barely whisper. “Why would you want to know me? I'm not…. that interesting.”
“I think I’ll be the judge of that, don’t you think?” He smiles then, and you think your heart stops for a second. Your lips quirk up slowly, a small, genuine smile lighting your face up. It’s a small gesture, honestly. But for Riki - oh -he feels like he’s achieved something better than winning a dance competition.
𓈒⠀𓂃⠀⠀˖⠀𓇬⠀˖⠀⠀𓂃⠀𓈒
The meet-ups slowly become routine for the two of you. He always finds you sitting in the corner of the library, tucked away and reading to pass time. Everyday, he shows up and stays hours upon hours, sometimes telling you about his dance crew, sometimes discussing the books you’ve read.
On some slow days, you visit him in the dance room, watching him move across the floor with admiration and respect in your eyes. You sit and chat until the red hues of the horizon bleed into the sky after his routines, occasionally accompanying a small snack box with you which he wholeheartedly accepts.
By the time sophomore year rolls in, you’ve grown inseparable. Hanging out with Riki changes you quite a bit, your reserved persona blossoming into a more carefree and social one.
Your friends notice the change. They whisper about how he’s different with you - always leaving little notes and candies on your desk, but you brush it off as an act of kindness, convincing both yourself and your girls that Riki’s just thoughtful like that.
Hes nice, polite even. He cares for everyone, yes. But he doesn’t stay at school late until only the whispers of the wind echo the building - waiting for his friends to finish council duties. Only for you though, he does.
Its safe to say that his lighthearted humor; his habit of always caring, and that soft smile is a bit too much for your fifteen year old self, and you find yourself falling for him, gradually but surely.
As always, you're heading back to class, filling the air with discussions of exams and plans for the weekend, when you spot something that grasps both your attention and your breath. “Aren’t they so pretty?” Your finger is pointed towards a beautiful bloomed pink lily which sits in the soil beside the sidewalk.
Riki’s chatter dies down and he observes how your face lights up at the flower, like its existence is enough to brighten your day. “Do you like lilies?” He asks, moving forward to pluck it for you. The gasp you let out is part shock part happiness. “Yes, very much.” And the pure awe that gleams in your eyes while you gently wrap your fingers around the stem makes Riki decide then and there, that this wont be the last time you receive them.
He shows up at your doorstep on the last day of senior year as always, and in his hand, with no doubt - is a bouquet of meticulously arranged white and pink spider lilies. You crack a grin, gratefully accepting the flowers and replacing them with the old ones in your vase - which you'd invested in last year after Riki made it clear that the lilies were going to be a recurring occurrence.
”Final day of the last year of school, how we feeling?” The door clicks shut behind you and he reaches a hand out to ruffle your hair, causing you to swat his hand away. “I don’t know, I’m really glad we don’t have to deal with Mr. Choi and his 10 page essays, but I think I’ll really miss this. Like….everything.”
”Speak for yourself angel, I'm so glad I’m leaving this stupid institution.” You frown at that, kicking a pebble as you walk beside him. “You wont even miss the dance crew?” You can practically see the gears in his brain shifting before he sends a lazy grin your way. “Ill miss you more than anything.” Your eyes roll and you playfully shove him, ignoring the way your heart stutters at his words.
“Okay, wrap it up.” He chuckles at your response, pulling you closer to him by the hem of your blazer. “C’mon angel, you know I jest.” The walk to school is peaceful, the air around your filling with mindless conversations. “What are you doing after school today?” His voice is hushed, hesitant.
“Why?”
“I wanna show you something.” His fingers card through his hair, brushing the stray strands out of his eyes. A brow quirks up and you pass him a not so amused look. “Yea, the last time you said that I almost threw up crying from that blasphemous haunted house.” He offers you a sheepish - slightly regretful smile at that, lips turning up into a barely there pout.
He always got like this whenever he wanted something out of you, and knowing him, there was a near definite chance that he’d get it. “Please, angel? I promise its nothing like that this time. You'll really like it, trust me.” With a skeptic click of your tongue and a barely convinced sigh, you decide to indulge in him this once. “Fine.”
.
.
.
“I’m scared and I’m too young to die Nishimura.” You call out from below. He laughs. He laughs. Nothing about this situation was funny considering his idea of “fun” was risking your life to stare at the evening city skyline.
You’d found Riki in the middle of shirt signing, right after your last class. He’d spotted you almost immediately, and had excused himself with a boyish grin. “Lets go. Are you excited?” He’d tugged onto your hand and pulled you up towards the stairwell. “Gee, sure I am.” You had replied, though your tone was anything but, more so laced with uncertainty and a hint of sarcasm.
Now you stand on the balcony of your school, staring at him climbing a ladder that leads to the water tanks almost 5 feet above the initial ground. “Get down, im not gonna get up there.” He passes you a conspiratory smile and you shake your head, taking three steps back with slightly nervous scoff.
“Nope. No. I’m gonna leave-” Before you can even blink he jumps down from the ladder and grabs your arm, pulling you towards the metal piping. “Stop being such a debby downer, you’ll be fine.” You let out a more offended scoff at that. Debby downer? This was your safety we’re talking about. What if you fall- or worse- die?!
Okay. maybe you were being a littleee dramatic. But can you blame a girl? The last time he’d said these words you’d almost spiraled into thinking a seven foot tall talking mummy with a machete was going to manifest in the middle of the room. Oh, you hated those god forsaken haunted houses.
“Breathe, angel. I wont let you fall.” His voice interrupts your unpleasant flashback and you frown at him. “Fine, but im gonna haunt you for life if I do.” He shakes his head with an amused laugh and lets you climb the ladder first. Just as you reach the top, you let out a small sigh and brush your hands to get off any dust.
He follows right after, hoisting both your bags on the wall, swinging his legs over the ledge, and pulling you to sit down beside him. You gasp at the view you’d been ignoring due to nerves and the sight mesmerizes you.
The city sky line stretches out for as long as your eye can see, and the sky looks like a canvas, all reds and yellows and oranges mixing in together. You cant see where it ends and where the towers start - the entire image overwhelming you in the greatest way. Below you, far in the distance, you spot the cars and people dashing towards wherever they have to be, and you realize - really, how small the world can be from up here.
“Do you like it?” You don’t look at him, only nod. “Yea.” He smiles, long fingers slowly reaching out to yours. He entwines them and quietly drops your hands in his lap, turning his head to stare at your side. Riki doesn’t think he’s seen anything more stunning in his entire life.“Has my whole heart.” He whispers. You still think hes referring to scenery and hum, a wide smile spreading across your face. “I can see why.”
But when you look at him, he’s not looking forward. Instead, his eyes are fixated on you. “I…..want to talk to you.” You squeeze your hand in his, encouraging him with a playful smile. “You’re talking right now.” A chuckle rumbles in his chest and he scoots closer. He shifts his focus on the horizon now, voice low and calm, like he has all the time in the world.
“Remember that time when I bruised my jaw during basketball season?”
“The fist fight back in grade 10?”
“Yea.” He smiles lightly. “You had walked all across the court and lectured me in front of my team.” You furrow your brows. “Why are you bringing that up-”
“Let me finish.” His thumb traces light patterns over your hand. “I was kind of pissed in the moment I’m not gonna lie. But then after the game you cleaned my wounds, and I saw those tears in your eyes.” A pause. “No one had worried for me like you do, and my heart broke a little watching you fuss over my stupidity.” There’s silence for a beat, and his gaze drops to your tangled fingers. “I think that’s when I decided I cant let you go. Ever.”
Your breath catches in your throat at the implication. “What do you mean-”
“I love you.” The three words ring out in the silent air and your heart nearly explodes. He’s looking at you now, staring as if he’s trying to memorize every line on your face.
You don’t know what to say, brain scrambling to process everything. “You….” The door to the balcony bursts open and you hear the voices of your friends calling out to you, but you’ve already tuned everything out.
His eyes drops to your lips and his free hand brushes the strand of hair off your cheek. “I do.” His voice has dropped to a whisper and you here another incoherent yell from one of his friends this time. “May I?” Your head moves on your own, nodding only once.
He closes the gap between you and presses his lips onto yours, pausing to make sure you’re really okay with this. You move then, softly capturing his own into your mouth. Sweet. He tastes so sweet. You think.
Your eyes shut close and he pulls you impossibly closer with the hand tangled in his lap and you melt into his touch. His thumb grazes your cheek softly, head tilted for better access.
Click!
The sounds of a camera shutter goes off and your senses finally take in the excited cheering of your friends from below. You break the kiss slowly, unwilling to open your eyes just in case you’re dreaming - but the firm squeeze of his hand confirms that this is very much real. A small but genuine giggle slips past you as you take him in - his face glowing in the dusk, a wide grin decorating his face. His eyes are upturned into soft crescents. “I love you too” You whisper loud enough for him to hear.
Jungwon - a mutual friend- has already climbed up the ladder by now, and he announces his arrival pretty loudly. “Ohmygod finally!” The small bubble you and Riki had formed breaks, and the two of you swing your legs over the ledge and get up, greeting the older boy.
“Thanks a lot hyung. We were kind of having a moment here.” Riki’s voice bleeds out with disapproval and slight annoyance, only gaining a loud laugh from the latter. You notice him waving the camera in his right hand dramatically. Ah, so he clicked the picture.
With barely contained excitement, he shoves the camera in your face- very proudly showing you the picture he took. “Don’t you look so adorable? Took the two of you long enough.”
The film captures a still image of you and Riki with your lips locked. The golden-orange light of the setting sun reflects on your faces and you notice how both of you are smiling mid kiss. You crane your neck to look at him, only to find that his focus is already on you. And then he gives you that boyish smile you’ve come to adore over the years. Its perfect.
This is perfect.
You hadn't imagined this for your last ever day of high school, but you were sure you’d cherish it the most.
Later that evening, Riki comes by with a bouquet red lilies, different to the pink ones you’re so used to seeing. He asks you to be his girlfriend, handing the arrangement to you. The confusion on your gleeful face doesn’t go unnoticed by him. You place the flowers in your familiar vase and jump into his embrace, agreeing to his wish and kissing his cheek.
“Red lilies symbolize love, angel.” The two of you are tangled on your couch, replaying Frozen for the umpteenth time. You tilt your head backwards from your position in between his legs and hum.
“What?” He looks down at you from behind, a soft smile playing on his lips. “I got you red ones instead of pink because red symbolizes love. It represents passion.” You always knew that Riki was thoughtful, but this- oh this - it showed that he cares.
His silent actions make you want to say so much - to express how grateful you are for everything, but you opt for a more hushed, quieter gesture. “Thank you.” You shift in his embrace, movie temporarily forgotten.
”For the flowers?”
“No. For being there for me. For loving me.” And the way he looks down at you with such pure and unfiltered affection confirms the one thought in your head.
It will always be him.
“You're single handedly keeping the floral boutique business running.” A light chuckle slips past your lips as you refill the water in the vessel. He grins, leaning against your doorway. “They should pin me as their star customer if you ask me.” You straighten the petals of the fresh bouquet you placed inside the vase, an assortment of pinks and reds adding decor to your living room.
”You spend too much on them Riki! I cant possibly allow you to invest so much on flowers that eventually wither.” Its like scolding a child, really. He’s awfully stubborn when it comes to this. Don’t get me wrong now, you’ve had this conversation with him far too many times since high school, but he insists on getting them every single time, no matter how expensive.
Two strong hands wrap around your waist from behind and you feel his hair nuzzle your jaw. His head drops to your shoulder, lips pressing to your skin. “Hmmm….at least my love for you will never wither.” His hum rings in his throat, sending tiny vibrations down your spine. “You’re so cheesy Nishimura.”
”You love it angel.” A laugh slips through your lips and you hum, spinning around in his grasp and kissing his jaw. Because you do. You really really do love it.“You shouldn’t be here. Don’t you have class?” Your fingers reach up to fix his hair, which he’d recently dyed blonde as per your request.
After high school, the two of you had mentally prepared yourselves for a long distance relationship, knowing that your dreams laid on different paths.
But fortunately, Jungwon - who was also in your college - had somehow convinced Riki’s parents to let him stay rather than shift back to Japan. And so his nineteen year old self stood here currently with you captured in his arms, grinning up at him.
“Who cares about class?” A small smack lands on his chest and he winces. “Your GPA. The dream job you want. Miss Choi who keeps tormenting poor Heeseung over you.”
His eyes roll at your words, mumbling out in a very bored tone, “Yea well he deserves it- ow! Stop hitting me!” Another firm smack lands on his chest- except this time, harder. “He was trying to find you all over campus last week. Did you tell him you were at the studio?” A sheepish smile colors his face. “…Maybe?” You glare at him, thinking of a way to get him to seriously attend his class. “Okay but I genuinely was going to go to fix my new dance routine…”
“And then..?” You pry, voice already knowing. “…And then I kinda got distracted and ended up in your apartment…but only because I missed you!” He adds on quickly.
You click your tongue, and untangle yourself from his grasp, worried for the boy. There’s no way he can keep this up, for both your and his sake. Maybe Heeseung’s too. “Yea right. You cant keep using that excuse every time to woo your way out. Get to class, now.” Hes already being pushed out your door. “But-”
“Out, now.”
He gives up and lets you shove him outside, eyeing you warily. “Okay but my kiss-”
Slam!
The door shuts in his face, and he can hear your voice muffled through the other side. “Attend all your classes for a week and you’ll get it.”
You hear him sigh outside your door and the sounds of footsteps retreating. Riki could be so difficult when he wanted to, but you liked his quiet stubbornness sometime. It gave you some entertainment.
With a final shake of your head at the door, you retreat back to your room to finish the ongoing assignment you had been writing before he showed up. You silently thank the gods that it’s Thursday, which meant you had a free schedule for the entire day.
.
.
.
After 4 hours of cramming your back in a preposterous position in a hard wooden chair - which you were sure you’d regret later on- you allow the pen to slip from your fingers, eyes trailing to the digital clock on your desk. It reads 18.45. Had you really been writing for that long?
Fingers flexing, you only then register how much your knuckles hurt from staying bent for so long. The chair screeches backwards and you stand, stretching your body. Time for a break. Your feet pad through the quiet atmosphere and lead you towards the kitchen.
You swing your pantry door open, eyes raking over the snacks that you have. Where’s the cheese ramen? Cookies…..muffins….doritos…what the hell. You double check, and then triple check just for sure, eyebrows furrowing in slight frustrated confusion. Did Heeseung finish all of them? You had 4 packs. Oh, when you get your hands on that devil-
Ring!
The doorbell interrupts your grand scheme of revenge (Filling Heeseung’s bed with plastic cockroaches) and you grumble, mildly irritated. You trudge to the hall and roll your eyes when the ringing continues impatiently. “Oh my god, I’m coming! Jeez!” The door swings open and before you can even blink, a series of people - boys, specifically- shove their way inside your living space.
A paw to your foot snaps you out of your initial daze and you almost instantly smile, picking the little white furball up. “Maeum, my baby!” He licks your face eagerly as you coddle him, squishing him against your cheek.
“I would appreciate some of that treatment too.” Your focus finally shifts to the 4 boys sprawled out on your couch as if they own it, eyes locking with Riki who is currently glaring at the canine. “Everyone except Sunoo is free to leave by the way.”
A collective gasp echoes in the air at your words with the sole exception of Sunoo - who looks awfully delighted. “I told you she likes me the most.” Maeum jumps out of your arms and settles down in Jungwon’s lap - who is currently busy trying swat Heeseung for pinching him. You sigh and shut the door which had been open and make your way towards the couch.
With a pout, Riki pulls you next to him beside Heeseung almost immediately and you frown. “Did you attend all your classes?” He nods. “All of them?” You ask again, looking at Heeseung for confirmation who only nods.
Riki points at his lips and taps, pulling you closer to him with a hand on your wrist. A whisper of disbelief leaves your mouth, “You cant be real.” The plush of your lips connects with his and you offer him a small kiss. “EW. No PDA please.” You break away from him and stare at Heeseung incredulously. “This is my apartment which you sabotaged, mind you.”
He shifts farther away from you as to make a point and his face contorts into one of fake disgust. You squint your eyes, the dull ache of hunger in your stomach reminding you of the ramen stealing culprit. “So….” You start, and the attention shifts all on you. “I had 4 ramen packs stocked just last week….” Your eyes rake around the room casually, before stopping on Heeseung’s already guilty face. “I open my pantry today and all of them are gone!”
“What the fuck, I knew leprechauns were real.” All of you collectively shift your heads to stare at Jungwon and he only shrugs. “I hate those tiny green menaces.”
“No way Jungwon has made it this far in life.” Sunoo’s shock makes you crack up slightly, but you quickly regain composure, eyes pinning Heeseung down again. “Anyways, pray tell me Heeseung, do you know what happened to my Buldak?”
He slowly stands up from the couch and retreats to fiddle with his bag. His fingers fish for his wallet and he makes his way to the door. “I’ll buy you 7 packets as compensation.”
“So you admit eating all of them, you bigback!” You yell as he darts out the door, one shoelace still untied. “Im buying you more though woman!” He yells back and you scoff at his audacity. There’s no way this guy is four years older than you.
Maeum settles in your lap and Jungwon lets out a sound of betrayal before making space for Sunoo to sit comfortably. You absentmindedly pet the pup in your arms and lean into Riki’s shoulder. “Im so tired and bored.” He lodges his arm above you on the back rest, pulling you in closer. “By staying at home the whole day?”
He snickers at the glare you send him, pecking your forehead. “You know I jest, angel.” You sigh, briefly closing your eyes. “I’ve been writing that stupid assignment the whole day.”
“What assignment?” You lift your head up from his shoulder and snap your neck to Sunoo, who’s also in your major. “The one on romantic and victorian literature.” If Sunoo could turn any paler, he does in the moment. You sit up straighter at his reaction, disbelief plastered on your face. “Its literally 45% of our grade!”
The phone lodged in his hands drops and he stands up, pacing your living. “When was this announced? I didn’t know this! When is it due?” Maeum seems to notice the shift in atmosphere and lazily picks his head up before dropping it in your lap again. “Literally last week. Don’t worry though, you still have around 4 days to finish it.” You pause, and he shoots you a slightly uneasy look. “I sense a but.”
“Butt, lol.” Sunoo almost chucks his phone at Riki but restrains himself from getting tangled in a half murder case. “But…it has to be at least 25 pages long.” Even Jungwon gasps at this, momentarily distracted from whatever game he had been playing on his phone.
“25 pages?!” Sunoo almost falls to his knees in the middle of your apartment and Riki, as always, thinks this is hilarious. “Better get to writing, hyung.” The former snaps at him harshly, barely even letting him complete his sentence. “I don’t wanna hear anything from the dude who keeps skipping classes.” Riki’s laughter immediately ceases right when the doorbell rings and you get up to open the door.
Heeseung’s face twists into one of confusion at the sight of the brunette sulking on your carpet. “I literally only left for 15 minutes.” He kicks his shoes off and places the two heavy plastic bags he’d been carrying on the coffee table.
“He’s throwing a tantrum, don’t worry about it.” Riki cuts through, sending Sunoo a menacing smile, to which the latter only signs him the knife to throat gesture, sliding his thumb across his neck to mimic a slicing motion - a silent threat. “Count your days Nishimura Riki. You will go bald and your girlfriend will leave you.” Riki sticks his tongue out at the older, only trying to provoke him more.
“Eugh, mint chocolate icecream.” Jungwon - who had been quick to inspect the plastic bags - remarks whilst pulling out a tub of ice cream. That catches both your and Sunoo’s attention, and the boy completely forgets his previous conversation, sitting up straight at the words ‘mint’ and ‘icecream’
“I figured we should just have group dinner since its pretty late and we’re all here.” Heeseung sits beside Sunoo on the carpet and you retreat to the kitchen to put the sweet in the freezer and grab some plates. By the time you come back, the other two boys have also made themselves comfortable on the carpet, huddling around the parcel of takeout. Maeum claims the sofa to himself and decides to sleep peacefully.
You set the dishes down on the table and settle in between Jungwon and Heeseung. The younger reaches for his bag and tries to find something whilst the rest of you plate dinner.
“Hey guys!” You all look at him waving a deck of UNO cards in his hand, a devilish smirk plastered on his face. “Wanna play UNO?”
𓈒⠀𓂃⠀⠀˖⠀𓇬⠀˖⠀⠀𓂃⠀𓈒
“Pick two more.” Sunoo smirks at Jungwon’s move as he places a yellow card down over his own. “Pick up four.” The laugh that Jungwon lets out almost scares you out of your skin. “pick up EIGHT!” The card slams down on your poor coffee table and you can only watch from where you’ve settled down on the sofa.
Three rounds into the game and Heeseung had decided to leave, announcing that his girlfriend needed help with her project. The remaining four of you only knew those were excuses to get out of the never-ending card game but didn’t pry. Two more rounds later Riki had flipped the table and decided to ragequit. Eventually, you had gotten tired of his incessant pouting and huffing from beside you and decided to withdraw.
Now - almost one hour into the game - only Jungwon and Sunoo are left, and as much as you can make out, none of them are willing to back down. Sunoo reels back with giggles, slapping his lap as he plucks a card from the deck he’s holding, and Jungwon’s face instantly drains color.
“Pick up…..twelve.” Jungwon’s cards slam down and he stands up, pointing at the other. “That’s cheating!!” Sunoo’s rolling on the carpet at this point, cards long forgotten.
“Ohmygod you really thought you were gonna win, didn’t you?” - A gasp of air - “Ohmygod your face was pure gold” He cackles, and you almost feel bad for the younger boy.
Riki’s head shifts in your lap and he lets out a bored groan. “Its literally just a game hyung. Tone it down.” Both heads snap simultaneously towards him. “You flipped the fucking table!” A second groan slips out of him - turning sides and burying his face in the plush of your skin.
The next hour is just a bunch of yelling, blaming, and Sunoo ragebaiting Jungwon like he gets paid for it. With a heavy sigh, you shift Riki off your lap to break Jungwon apart from Sunoo - who is currently tackled to the ground. “Okay, its getting late you two.”Jungwon peels himself off first, rolling his eyes. “Whatever, I demand a rematch.”
Sunoo snickers, brushing his sweatshirt clean. “Sore loser.” You’re tugging Jungwon up and about towards the door before he turns even more red from Sunoo’s teasing, lightly scolding him to wear his shoes.
Riki sits up straighter now, shaking his head with disappointment. “Real mature guys.” He decides to finally help you kick the two out of your apartment, grabbing their bags and Sunoo’s arm before dragging him towards the door. “Let me have my girlfriend to myself. Goodnight.”
They can barely get a word in before the door closes on their faces. You let out a loud sigh, walking back to tidy your apartment. The two of you work silently for the next few minutes, finally dropping on the sofa after cleaning after your friends.
You hardly even get to adjust on the sofa before Riki’s pulling you up to your feet again, which you highly disapprove of. He tugs you to you door, and your brows furrow. “What? What now?”
“Just come.” He replies, putting his shoes on and grabbing your keys. The door locks after you pull it shut, following him into the lobby. He presses the elevator and nudges you inside, jabbing the button for the last floor. “Do you know someone up there or…” You trail off, slightly baffled.
A ding hums when you reach the last floor and the doors open. He laces your fingers with his and gently pulls you in the direction of the stairs leading to your building’s balcony.
Cool wind with the hint of something delicious wafting in the air graces you when he shoves the rackety door to the balcony open. You walk to the ledge, leaning over your elbows to admire the nightlife of your city.
The moon shines brightly tonight, and the late hour gives you a sense of peacefulness. Riki leans beside you, chin dropped in his palm. “The moon is beautiful, isnt it?” You shoot him an easy smile, sliding over closer to him. “It is.”
You needed this. After such a chaotic evening, you were ready to crash right into your bed, but this - being here with him - was much better.
“Look.” He quietly points to an aeroplane in the starry sky, a red light twinkling as it covers the expanse of black. “That’s gonna be me some day. Flying the plane, I mean.” You shift your focus onto his features; the way he looks so content and in awe whilst staring at the vehicle.
“And you'll be there with me.” He says, moving to look at you. You give him a confused smile, tilting your head. “I don’t think I should be flying planes, baby.” He pulls you in till your shoulders are bumped together, a firm hand on your waist as he stares back up at the now empty sky.
“No, of course not,” he chuckles, “But I want my world to be able to see the entire world I’ll travel with me.” And the way he says it makes you go weak in the knees. You kiss him then, under the stars, your own way of promising that no matter what, you’ll always be right by his side.
Flowers, as well as a hand clutching them invade your vision abruptly. “Boo!”
The sound breaks your train of memories and you flinch, the photo album dropping from your hands with a thud onto the tiled floor. Your head whips around from where you’re sat on the sofa and a squeal leaves your mouth.
Riki quickly places the flowers on the nearest surface, and catches you when you jump into his arms, spinning you around once before putting you down on your feet. “You’re back early! Weren't you landing tomorrow?” He places his aviator’s cap on your head, intentionally crooked. The fabric of his crisp uniform wrinkles lightly when his arms flex to wrap around your waist, securing you to his chest. “Mmm, surprise.” He hums out, his voice rumbling deeply in his chest.
The way you’re grinning hurts your cheeks, as you wrap your own arms around his neck, pulling him in for a kiss. Your lips move against his and he shifts, inhaling deeply. “I missed you so much..” He murmurs, hands running up and down your waist as he captures your lips once again.
You giggle, fingers carding through his oreo locks as you pull away. “I missed you too baby.” He searches for your lips again, eyes hooded and expectant, but you pull back slightly and peck the corner of his mouth, deliberately missing his lips. “Slow down captain, you should get some rest first.”
He groans, seemingly had enough of your teasing before effortlessly throwing you onto his shoulder and making his way to your shared bedroom. You let out a surprised yelp- cap falling down- to which he responds with a playful spank to your ass.
“I haven't seen my wife in two weeks. I plan on ravishing her.” You squeal, hitting his back. “Riki!”
The door clicks shut behind you, and he places you onto your bed, smirking. “Nope. I can rest later.Right now I need to show you just how much I missed you.”
Rays of morning light filter through the sheer curtains, falling directly in your room and onto your bed. You groan and stir, the dull pain throbbing in you lower half serves as a reminder of your activities last night. He really hadn't been lying when he said he missed you.
A tiny yawn slips through your lips and your eyes barely crack open while you try to sit up straight, but a strong arm pulls you closer and a groan resonated from behind your back.
“Where are you going?” Riki’s voice gruffs out, still laced with sleep. He tightens his grip on your waist and snuggles his face into the space between your shoulder. “I have to freshen up, baby.” You coo out, mind replaying all the ways he took you apart a few hours ago when his bare thigh brushes against yours.
“Later. Sleep now.” He mumbles, half asleep. And you close your eyes once again, sighing in his touch.
A soft kiss to your neck wakes you up and your body rolls around to snuggle into a firm chest. Riki smiles, half conscious. His arms squeeze you tightly and he drops his head in your hair to inhale your scent. “Morning angel.”
You stir, grumbling out a small good morning back, but making no efforts to get up and start your day. Instead, your face presses into his skin and you hum in content, to which Riki lets out a small giggle, and decides to stay like this for a while.
Oh, how he missed you in his arms.
Late mornings with Riki were something you always looked forward to religiously, considering how less you saw him nowadays. He had been very serious about taking you everywhere with him, but 4 flights in and you had gotten immensely tired of the constant travel.
The two of you bought a small apartment then, in a peaceful neighborhood right after your marriage. It wasn’t big or grand, but it was home. “I want to spend my time with you in the quiet. The airport is loud enough for me.” He had said, and so you had picked a comfy 4 room apartment on the 12th floor, since Riki had always loved the thrill of being far above from the ground.
You had settled down as a high school teacher, part timing at a local animal shelter on the weekends. That’s where you had found Bisco, a cute chocolate colored pup who had stared up at you like you were meant to be.
This was the life you had always dreamed of - a nice home, a well paying job, a cute little canine, and Riki, always by your side. It couldn’t get any better than this, really.
𓈒⠀𓂃⠀⠀˖⠀𓇬⠀˖⠀⠀𓂃⠀𓈒
The scent of pancakes hits your senses as you step out of the bathroom, steam pouring out behind you. Water trickles down your neck and lightly drips onto your shirt from your freshly washed hair. You walk into the kitchen, humming at the delicious aroma. “I love it when you’re home, you know.”
Riki stands near the stove with a pair of sweatpants clinging to his waist and your pink apron tied around his bare upper half, ceremoniously flipping the pancakes with a spatula. “Why? Because you miss my beautiful face?”
You snort and hoist yourself up on the counter beside where he stands, observing the coffee he’s got brewing. “Nah, because I get princess treatment since you basically do all my work for me.” He frowns and pinches your thigh with his free hand. “My wife hates me and wants me to die. Am I nothing but a slave to you?”
You swat his arm away, rubbing your skin. “I can’t believe you're so dramatic. What will your colleagues say when they see their captain whining?” He plates the food and puts the pan in the sink, lodging himself between your thighs. Both his hands settle on either side of the counter and he leans, boxing you in.
“Nothing much for them left to say when they already know my gorgeous wife has me whipped.” He murmurs, leaving a wet trail of kisses along your neck and jaw. You laugh, throwing your head back. A hand slaps his shoulder as you weakly try to push him away. “Don’t start now, the pancakes are getting cold!”
He hums, continuing his ministrations. “The pancakes can wait. Just one kiss, please?” The plush of his lips connect to your shoulder and you shake your head. “We both know its more than just one kiss Nishimura. I'm still sore from last night.” He smirks at that, pulling back and raking his eyes over your body. “Ooh, you were so loud-”
“Shut up!” You swat his shoulder again, pushing him and sliding past his frame to the dining table. He follows right after you, plates in hand and laughter echoing the space. “What?” he draws out, “I'm just stating facts!”
With a huff, you seat yourself down across him, crossing your arms. “Oh yea? Well…” A bouquet of lilies sitting on the far end of the table catches your attention and you trail off, reaching over to inspect them.
They feel different at first touch, and on closer observation you realize that they aren't the soft, scented ones you’re so familiar with. You run your fingers along the pink petals, glancing at him. “These are fake.” It’s a statement, not a question.
He hums, swallowing the piece of pancake he was chewing and reaching over to his mug of coffee. “Astute observation miss english teacher.” You roll your eyes, mindlessly caressing the plastic softly. He grins when he sees that irritation on your face and silently laughs. “Oh c’mon, you know I jest, angel.”
His hand reaches out to yours from across the surface and he gently plays with your fingers, taking a sip of his coffee. “You know how I used to bring you flowers every week?” Your head snaps up to look at him.
“I used to do it so that the lilies in your vase never wither….but now with me in a different country almost every month, I don’t like coming back to the sad wilted ones.” His thumb traces patterns over your skin and you place the flowers down beside you, watching his lips upturn in a genuine smile. “So I thought I’d give you ones that will always stay fresh- well, not exactly…but they’ll never wither, no matter what.” Your heart tugs at his thoughtfulness and you quickly move to place them in your vase, discarding the wilted ones which had been sitting there for a little more than 2 weeks.
Riki smiles when you ruffle his hair whilst returning back to your seat. “Aww, that’s so sweet baby, thank you so much.” Bisco jumps into his lap and the two of you divert your attention to the little canine. He lets out a bark and licks Riki’s face as to make his presence known. “Bisco babyy! Did you miss dad?” The pup barks again at that and Riki lets out a laugh, snuggling him.
The morning passes in laughter and Bisco’s funny antics which make you chase him all around the house. By the time you plop down on the sofa, its already lunchtime. Riki sits beside you, laying his head in your lap and staring up at your face. You look down at him when you feel his stare, chuckling lightly. “What now?” Your fingers card through his hair as you reach for the remote to play a movie.
“Nothing, just looking.” You glance at him again, choosing to replay Frozen. “Why? You leaving soon?” It’s a joke, but he shifts his head in your lap and you look down at him, face contorting into slight disappointment.
“.…When’s your next flight?” His eyes trail towards the Disney logo playing on the screen, the animation distracting him from the ugly bubble forming in his chest. “In a week.”
You fall silent at that, and he notices the change in your demeanor. “How long will you be gone this time?” You absently run your fingers through his hair, tugging at his roots occasionally and he sighs- gaze fixated on your frown. “….maybe 3 weeks.” The corners of your mouth deepen further and it sends a pang through his chest.
A heavy silence settles between you after you only reply with a hum, choosing to avoid the conversation and watch Anna sing. But Riki’s mind is spiraling, and his heart feels heavy with guilt. He doesn’t want you to be upset like this. You startle when he abruptly sits up straight and tugs you to your feet, switching the TV off. “Okay, no.”
You let him drag you to your room, fishing through your closet for a new set of clothes. “What….are you doing?” He barely even glances at you as he hands you a cute summer dress you’re yet to wear and pushes you in the direction of the bathroom.
“Taking you out on a date.”
.
.
.
The rest of the week passes by in a blur, filled with constant dates and late night runs to the grocery store or ice cream shop - just because. After your impromptu lunch outing the other day, Riki makes it his one and only goal to spend as much time as he can with you - partly also to keep you occupied and distracted from the fact that he’s leaving so soon.
The two of you lie in your bed now, bodies tangled in a mess of sweat and sheets. Another thing Riki had been hell bent on proving was how much he loved you - and so almost every night, you had found yourself coming undone beneath him as he whispered promises and sweet nothings in your ear.
Now, he drops onto you, groaning. The room falls quiet again- only disrupted by your heaving breathing. “You okay, angel?” He rolls off of you and pulls you into his chest. A slightly tired hum slips past your lips, and you trace the muscles on his biceps, falling into a comfortable silence.
“You think we should add to our family?” His voice comes out hushed, softly tearing through the atmosphere. You pull away to look at his face, sleepy eyes boring into his. “What, you want another puppy?” Riki presses his hand to your belly, wordlessly implying what he meant, and you gasp. “You mean….”
“Yes.” He caresses your cheek with the pad of his thumb, gazing in your eyes with assurance. “A mini me, or you - preferably you.” You smile, bringing your own hand up to place it on his. “I’d love that, yes.”
“Really?”
“Really.”
With that, the two of you drift off into a peaceful slumber- excited for what the future holds.
.
.
.
You wake up to a cold bed, eyes squinting to adjust to the surroundings and faint light intruding your vision. You sit up and blink, regaining half of your senses when a pair of lips connect to your cheek. “Sleep well, angel?” You hum, stretching. Once you’re out of your initial sleep filled daze, you manage to process the surroundings - Bisco in your bed, Riki already in his uniform, and a small suitcase standing beside him.
“You’re leaving already?” Riki wishes he can stay here with you forever, because the way you ask so innocently -barely awake and rubbing your eyes - makes him go weak. “Yes, baby. I have to.” You pout and nod as if you're unwilling to accept it.
“Okay, I’ll freshen up.” You fiddle with the hems of your blanket and throw it off of you, making your way to the bathroom. 30 minutes later, you’re standing dressed and full with the breakfast you ate - frowning down at the boy in front of you.
He crouches up from his former position after securing his right lace, and brushes his dress pants. “Can’t Heeseung sub for you?” He chuckles and pulls you in closer by the elbow, caressing your face. “You know it doesn’t work that way. Plus Heeseung is on paternity leave, remember?”
You lean into his touch, briefly closing your eyes. “Hmm…when’s that gonna be you?” Riki lets out an airy laugh and leans down to peck your forehead. “When I come back, I’ll be sure to make you a mom, okay?” You nuzzle his hand, cracking your eyes open and whispering softly, “Okay, I’ll look forward to it.” The pads of your fingers brush against his aviator’s cap and you straighten it, grinning. “Our baby will be so cute.”
“Just like you.” he reaches out to pinch your cheek and you whine, fixing his collar one last time. “Fly safely.” Riki rolls his eyes, pulling you in for a kiss. “You know I always do, angel.” You sigh after breaking away from him. “I still worry.” He leans down to peck your cheek and clutches his suitcase, smiling at you in your doorway. “I’ll be back in no time.”
With a final hug, he steps out of your house and into the early morning - on his way for the airport.
The keys rattle in your doorknob and you sigh as the door shakes unceremoniously. Exam papers in one hand, and a grocery bag in the other, you struggle to unlock your apartment without dropping either of the material on the floor.
Finally with a huff, the door creaks open and you stumble inside, feet leading you to the dining table. You let out a sigh once the weight from your hands is put down on the surface, and you drop into the chair.
Finals week is such a disaster.
The uncorrected sheets stare back at you, and you contemplate whether to ease the hunger in your stomach or reduce your workload. Just as you’re about to spiral between the two choices, a ring cuts through and diverts your attention.
Your fingers fish for your phone in your coat pocket and the wary look on your face quickly disappears when you read the caller ID and swipe to pick up.
“Hi angel.” Riki’s voice cuts through the speaker and you relax, mind melting away all your worries for a moment. “Hi baby, how’s the Netherlands treating you?” You hear some shifting on his side accompanied by a soft grunt. “Its really beautiful. We should come here sometime, you’ll totally love it.”
You chuckle, shrugging your coat off. “Maybe we should have a second honeymoon then.”
“Done. I’m totally ready to recreate it.” His almost instant reply to your suggestion only makes you laugh louder, shaking your head at his silly eagerness. “Dork.”
“You love me, though.”
He tells you about the things he saw over the past 2 and a half weeks and you tell him about school - the exams, your students, the absolutely preposterous answers your 15 year old children have written.
He laughs through your narration, asking a question or two in between. “Oh, by the way..” Riki’s voice trails off and you hum, urging him to continue. “I saw this beautiful bed of lilies today - they were coincidentally pink too.” A pause, “Did you know that the Netherlands grow the most lilies in the world? And they're somehow the prettiest ones. I immediately thought of you.”
You shift your posture, reaching out to the fake ones in your vase to dust them off. “You miss me that much, captain?” You can practically sense him rolling his eyes from there and silently snicker. “God forbid I try be romantic to my wife.”
You hum, teasing. “Don’t worry baby, I miss you too.” He seems content with your reciprocal and proceeds to yawn. “I’ll be there with you by this time tomorrow, with a very real bouquet.” Another yawn. “You know I was just joking with the plastic ones, right?”
“They’re pretty though.” You set them back in the vase and pet Bisco- who had made home in your lap halfway through the call. “Not as pretty as the real ones.” His voice is heavier now and you smile at the phone. “Okay Riki. Go to sleep.” He grumbles on the other side. “But I wanna listen… to your….voice” His sentence trails off and you know how stubborn he can get.
“You can listen to me talk your ear off all you want tomorrow, but go to bed now. You have an early flight baby.” Your stern but soft voice finally compels him to listen and he shifts again.
“Fine. Goodnight, angel.”
“Good night, fly safe tomorrow.”
“I always do.”
.
.
.
Riki’s flight had been scheduled for 6 in the morning, far early for you to give him a call, so he had decided to text you before taking off.
Huzzband🫶🩷🤭
Hi angel, good morning <3
Taking off in 30 mins
Imy :(
See u soon
Love you <33
Delivered
By the time you wake up, your phone already has a few notifications from him. You get up and reach out for the device, bleary eyes squinting at the screen as you type out replies and send him a picture of you and Bisco.
Good morning Rikiii :3
Fly safely!! Imy too baby :((
*One image sent*
Me and Bisco will be waiting for you!! Love youu <33
Delivered
You go about your day after texting him - moving around the house to tidy it. Thank god it’s a weekend. The rest of the day passes by relatively fast as you busy yourself in correcting papers, occasionally glancing at the clock. Bisco keeps you company, lazily resting around on the sofa whilst your hunched over paperwork, scribbling corrections and totaling marks onto a different sheet.
“Dad’s late, isnt he Bisco?” Your eyes are glued to the clock reading 21:30. Bisco whines in your lap which he’d settled in a few minutes ago, nudging your hand for pats. It wasn’t odd of Riki to come home way later after his flight had landed, but you would always receive a text from him the second he touched ground.
Huffing, you get up and Bisco scrambles off your lap. Its okay, maybe he forgot to text and went out with his colleagues. “Come Bisco, are you hungry?” The pup follows after you into the kitchen and eagerly waits near his bowl, watching as you crouch down and pour him some kibbles. “Good boyyy!” You coo out when he does a trick. “Momma will be outside, okay?” With a final pat to his head you stand up and make your way to the couch.
As you sit down, you contemplate whether to text Riki or not. Its pretty late, maybe you should. You pull out your phone and open his chat, your messages still left on delivered since morning. Just as your fingers move to tap the cursor, the bell rings.
You grin, phone forgotten as you peal yourself off the sofa and towards the door. Bisco joins you, curious eyes peeping to the wood. The door is pulled open by your hand and there- infront of you - stands Riki.
But there’s something off. His smile doesn’t reach his eyes and he hesitates to move. He must be tired. You think “Riki!” You throw yourself onto him and squeeze him tightly, but he doesn’t hug you back. You pull away, arms still looped around his neck as you stare into his eyes. “What’s wrong, baby?” He shakes his head, opening his mouth to say something - but is cut off by a loud bark.
Your head snaps down to the canine who is currently growling at your husband. That’s odd. Bisco never growls at the both of you. His growling gets louder and he almost scratches Riki’s calf, which finally causes you to step away from him and pick up the puppy- who is barking non stop.
“Hey, hey Bisco…what happened?” You pet him, trying to calm him down. “That’s dad, sweetie….why are you barking?” He’s baring his teeth at the man now- threatening him. You don’t know what to do with his peculiar behavior, and walk to his doggy room, placing him down on his bed. “Okayy, stay right here for now.” You mutter quietly, walking across the room and closing the door.
When you turn around, Riki is in the living room, staring at a photo frame - a picture from your wedding. You walk up behind him and wrap your arms around his waist- cheek pressing into the back of his uniform. Why does it smell like ash?
He flinches. Your brows furrow a bit, but the smile on your face stays, brushing it off as exhaustion. “I missed you sooo much baby.” You say, nuzzling your face into him. He sighs and turns around, wrapping his arms around your waist.
“I missed you too, angel.” He whispers, but his voice sounds different- you cant really place your finger on it, but there’s something heavy in his tone- as if he’s saying his words with finality.
You open your mouth to ask him about his flight, but the sharp ring of your phone cuts you off. Both your heads snap towards it and you move to pick it up. Why is Heeseung calling you at this hour? Riki plucks the phone out of your hand - silences it - and places it on the coffee table where your papers lay. “Talk to him later.” A confused look colors your face. “It might be important…Heeseung never calls this late.” Riki stares at you with a clenched jaw, pulling you in again. Your hands rest on his chest, and he drops his head onto your shoulder.
“Please. Im tired.” Your fingers find his clean locks and you caress him, a bit confused and startled when you feel drops of water wet your shirt. “Baby, are you crying?” You immediately try to pull back -worried- but he grips you harder, forcing you to stay still. You run your hand all across his back with a concerned frown, trying to soothe him. “Talk to me Riki….what happened?”
He shakes his head in your touch and lets out a sob. “Just…missed you too much.” You pull back and cup his cheeks in your palms. His eyes are red now and he looks genuinely sad. “I missed you too baby..don’t cry.” Your thumb swipes away a stray tear from his face and you lean in to kiss him, hoping that he’ll feel better.
He kisses you back with force, inhaling sharply. Its unlike all the other ones which are usually soft and slow - this one is fast, and he presses into you deeper, cupping your face in his hands and moving his lips quickly against yours, as if he’s running out of time.
He desperately leans back in when you pull away for air- and you shoot him a confused smile, tapping his cheek lightly. “Calm down, I’m not gonna go anywhere.” His eyes soften with something you cant quite make out, as if he knows something you don’t. With a peck to his cheek, you untangle yourself from his grip. “Go freshen up, I’ll order takeout and you can tell me all about Netherlands, okay?”
He stiffens and nods, mechanically walking to your bedroom. You plop yourself down on the sofa and start surfing for food, tapping against the screen quietly. Ultimately, you end up ordering from your local chinese place- confirming the payment. Right when you’re about to keep your phone aside, your attention shifts to all the messages you’re receiving.
The curiosity bubbles inside your chest and you click on the messages app, brows furrowing the further you scroll. Why is everyone asking if you’re okay? Why wouldn’t you be? Jungwon’s notification pops on your screen and you tap his name to open the chat.
Wonton 🥟🐱
Holy shit ohmygod did you check the news?
Please don’t
Fuck im so so sorry
Im worried, shit the gc is blowing up
*3 missed calls from Wonton🥟🐱*
Pick up.
*7 missed calls from Wonton🥟🐱*
Shit, please pick up
Are you okay?
Text me as soon as you see this please
Ykw fuck that, im coming over rn
Your fingers hover over the cursor, wondering what exactly is going on. Just as you’re about to type out a reply, the device is yanked away from you. Riki snuggles into your side, wrapping his arms around your body and hoisting you up into his lap. “Focus on me, angel.”
His clean woody scent hits your nostrils, although its very dull. You adjust yourself in his lap, smiling and playing with the ring around his ring finger. “Alright. Tell me everything.”
He talks to you through hushed whispers, always pausing and freezing when you mention doing something for the weekend or suggest going out on a date. You find his behavior very peculiar.
Riki’s never been the type to back out from a date - so whats up with him tonight?
“.….Speaking of flowers…” you interrupt his vivid description of the flower bed he saw. “You didn’t bring any back this time?” Your body turns in his lap, and your eyes lock with his already regretful ones. His hand comes up to tuck your hair behind your ear and he smiles sadly, shaking his head. “I couldn’t.” You pout, humming. “Why?”
How does Riki answer that question? How does he tell you something which isnt his place to tell? So he opts with hugging you tightly, resting his chin on the crown of your head. “I just couldn’t.” You respond with a sigh, nodding gingerly.
He proceeds to tell you about everything he has planned for you in the future - The name of your non-existent baby, his next flights, a trip he wants to take you and Bisco on.
Then- quieter- he asks you about your memories together- if you remember your first kiss, your late night conversations in your apartment, all those all nighters you pulled during final year, your wedding.
“You were the most beautiful thing I had ever seen when you walked down that isle.” You raise an eyebrow at his words, playfully pinching his bicep. “Were?”
He smiles and looks at your striking features, before letting out a soft whisper, “Still are.”
You peck his lips and open your mouth to say something, but hecuts you off by gently placing you off his lap and on to the space beside him- standing up to stretch. His actions are mimicked by you, and he sends you a longing smile- moving to kiss the entirety of your face before pulling back. “Ill go to the bathroom and be right back.” You giggle and nod, already missing the warmth on your cheek when his palm drops.
He walks into the dark hallway, out of your vision- and right on cue, the doorbell rings.
You open the door, fully expecting your takeout, but being greeted by a wrecked Jungwon instead. The smile on your face drops, and you usher him inside, voice laced with concern. “Jungwon? What happened?”
His eyes are bloodshot red - presumably from crying. It looks like he’s been running a hand through his hair constantly, judging by the unkempt state of it. You fetch him a glass of water and he stares at you in shock, voice completely hoarse. “…….You didn’t read the news, did you?”
You frown, placing the glass down on the coffee table and tilting your head. “What news?”
He gulps, unable to meet your eyes as fresh tears well up in his own. “Riki….”
You grin at your husband’s name and the boy in front of you stares in horror. “Oh, right! Don’t tell me you’re worried about him, silly! He got home about an hour ago and we’re gonna have dinner soon….you should join us-”
Jungwon firmly grasps your hand, his eyes blown wide in fear and sorrow. “Riki is no more.” The four words ring out loudly, engulfing the quiet apartment.
You rip your hands away from his, staring at him in disbelief and anger. The audacity of him to pronounce your very much living husband dead.
“What the fuck are you talking about?! Riki’s literally in the bathroom right now!”
Jungwon’s eyes soften a fraction and he reaches out - as if you’re a wounded animal, hesitating before wrapping his hands around yours.
“Listen to me, Riki is dead.” His tone seems final.
Your voice raises this time, and you yank him by the wrist, leading him to your bathroom. “You’ve gone crazy Jungwon. I’ve told you so many times to stop consuming so much of those stupid caffeinated drinks-” You slam the door open- only to be greeted by an empty darkness.
The grasp on his wrist loosens and you freeze, mind going blank. What? How could it be? You yourself had seen him go to the room- forget that, you had literally felt him, he’d been with you the entire time!
You take a step back- voice dying in your throat -unable to process whats happening. “How is this possible…..”
Jungwon stills behind you. “No…how is this possible?” You spin around on your heel, eyes crazed and face drained of color. “I saw him Jungwon…he came home-” A gasp for air, “He kissed me. That cant be fake, right? He kissed me and we cuddled and-” You’re grasping his shoulders, shaking him. “Hes alive. Im not crazy, hes alive.”
The boy stares at you in pity, slowly bringing his hands to remove yours from his shoulders - his silent voice slicing through your panicked one -
“Where are his things, then?” You freeze in place, mouth going dry. Where were his things? The living room-
Your feet carry you to the living hall, and only when you stop near the doorway do you remember - You hadn't seen his suitcase.
Your fingers grab the TV remote from the table, hand quivering as you jab in the numbers for the news channel. A bright image of a plane crash pops up, and the news anchor’s voice drills through your ears.
“..……….Decelis Air’s flight number BT340 which had been returning from the Netherlands to South Korea has reportedly crashed whilst landing. The time of accident has been estimated around 17:30PM. Upon initial investigation, it has been determined that there were issues with the aircraft’s control system, causing the vehicle to come down on the runway.
Unfortunately, the authorities have confirmed that there are no survivors. A total of 250 deaths have been estimated, out of which 10 are cabin crew, and two pilots - Lim Dowoon and Nishimura Riki.
My deepest condolences go out to each of the victim’s families…….”
You tune the rest of the noise out as the realization makes you drop to your knees. “No….no…this cant be true..” You shake your head, a sob heaving out of you as you keel over. “He’s not dead, he can’t be dead!” Jungwon switches the TV off and crouches in front of you, pursing his lips. “He’s gone, honey.” Your gaze snaps up at him and you shake your head frantically, eyes and throat burning. “NO!”
Two arms wrap around you and you shake, clutching his shirt. Jungwon caresses your hair, chin resting on your head as he tries to speak with his own quivering voice. “He didn’t make it. He’s gone.” Your head spins. Its getting harder to breath, and you don’t know what to do. “He’s here Wonnie, Riki’s going to come back to me-” Your vision blurs and you desperately claw at his shirt, gasping for air.
He pulls back in worry, scared due to your behavior. “You’re hyperventilating- breathe for me-” The tears choke up your airway and you feel your consciousness slip. Jungwon’s panicked voice is the last thing you hear before the darkness engulfs you.
“Stop it, angel! My sides hurt!” Riki’s laughter cuts through the gloomy fog and you find yourself smiling. Your phone is propped in your hands, in which a video plays - 19 year old you tickling Riki in your then apartment. Sunoo’s laughter bubbles out from behind the camera, and you yell at him to take a picture of Riki’s red face. The video ends, and only then do you feel hot tears streaming down your face. When did you start crying?
“You were so ticklish.” You swipe off the dust that’s been collecting on the grey rock, and wipe the plating clean.
‘IN LOVING MEMORY
Nishimura Riki
2005-2032
Here lies the body of a brilliant pilot, caring son, kind friend, and loving husband.’
It reads.
Your hand moves to remove the wilted flowers off the gravestone and replace them with the fresh lilies you had bought on the way. The white lilies bring color to the depressing atmosphere and a watery sigh slips past you. “Work was hard today, Jason spilled coffee all over Miyeong’s dress and she cried.”
Some might think you’re crazy for talking to yourself. The residents living around the graveyard have been seeing you come to talk to the air for the past 4 years now - always showing up at 17:30. Exact.
“Bisco misses you. He keeps sleeping with your aviator cap. Its kinda filthy now because of his drool and chewing.” You shift. “But whenever I try to take it away he growls at me.” A laugh slips through, and then- softer, “I miss you too…everyday. Especially when I see those plastic flowers in my vase. I wont say its easy to act normal, but I manage.” You purse your lips, restraining yourself from crying as you attempt to joke, “I'm still waiting for those lilies you promised, by the way.”
The wind blows in your face, messing up your neatly done hairstyle. Its like Riki hears you- because a single lily rolls from the grave and into your lap. Your eyes widen at the flower and a small sob makes it way up your throat. “For me?” The wind whistles again- as if answering for Riki.
A watery smile creeps up your face as you will yourself not to break down. The deliberate honk of a car in the distance snaps you out of your emotions, and you whip your head around briefly, before turning back to stare at the tomb in front of you.
“I should go. Jungwon and his wife have to get to little Mirae’s recital. She’s going to be performing solo, and Jungwon will have me by the throat if we’re even a second late.”
You look into your lap again, gently twisting the flower between your fingers. “I….might visit a bit less now. Heeseung says I should cope with other ways.” A pause, and your gaze flicks up. “You wont be too mad, right? I’ll come…just once a week maybe.”
You stand up when the second honk echoes, this time louder. “See you then.” A hand reaches out to pick up your bag- the other one tightly secured around the stem of the lily- and you glance at the gravestone one last time.
“I love you, Riki.”
Taglist: @momnjam @yandere-stories @starmoonlia
*All writing belongs to @cinnamxncrunch. Please do not plagiarize, translate, copy or feed to ai.*
Hi guys I still exist if yall even care....life has been super duper busy but I promise I'll update ITIGDITH 🥹 I have a super yummy jake smau cooking after this pls trust 🙏😖
Synopsis: Lilies are something Riki shows up with every week - may it be through school, college or even marriage. One day he brings home plastic ones, joking about how the real ones withering makes him upset. He promises to bring you fresh flowers after his flight next week - so why is the vase still sitting with the dusty unscented fake ones?
Pairings: Commercial pilot!N.Riki x Wife!Reader
Theme: Doomed lovers, Slow burn(kinda), friends to lovers, various settings and timelines (they grow up together), They're so in love lol, Ft. Heeseung, Sunoo and Jungwon, (One skz meme reference)
Warnings: Fluff, Slight suggestiveness, Angst, No comfort, Major character death, Hints of depression at the end
Word Count: 12.7k
Mikki's Note: Helloo!! This is my first ever fic and I'm quite nervous about it, but writing this was so fun! Honestly i didn't know if i should write angst for my first post but I've had this idea forever lololl... i really hope you guys like it! Also, english isn't my first language so please excuse any grammatical errors. Comments, likes and reblogs are much much appreciated! Enjoy <333
The album flips to a picture of you and Riki in your senior year of high school - capturing your very first kiss.
You’d known Riki since you were 14 - curious eyes peering at the new student who had transferred from Japan. He was quite a bubbly child back then, always participating in the latest dance competitions and cracking jokes amidst a serious classroom.
You and him weren't really meant to cross paths, not with him being so bright and social, and you - reserved and opting to maintain your peace. You’d thought he would be like every other boy you admired - keeping distance, sending a polite smile or two. But that all changed on a random Tuesday.
Laughter bubbles in your throat at the memory as you unconsciously rotate the beautiful engagement ring on your finger, heart swelling up with love, the same way it did all those years ago. If it weren't for him, you don’t think you would've ever made the efforts to even interact with the boy.
“.…Is that The Girl in the Glass Case?” the voice snaps you out of your dazed peace and the chair beside you screeches before a figure drops into it. Nishimura Riki - one of the popular kids from the school’s dance crew. You pause your finger flipping the page and crane your neck to stare at him, his sudden presence catching you off guard. “Uh…yea.”
He hums. Why is he even here? Let alone speaking to you? Do you have something on your face? He’s been staring for too long-
“You’re in my class right? Third row last seat?” Your mouth opens and closes like a fish, brain working too fast. A very stiff nod seemingly satisfies him, and he shifts his focus onto the book again.
“Its an interesting book. Do you like thrillers?” Honestly, you don’t know what prompted this. Its not like you are friends, but the way he’s so casually attempting a conversation - limbs relaxed and eyes trailed on the spine of the book - makes you quirk your lips up. “Quite a lot, actually.”
The two of you fall into easy conversation after that, save for the initial awkwardness. You barely spend an hour together before he announces that he has to leave, but the short period of time changes your perspective about him. Hes very different than what you'd thought to be.
"Don’t you have Biology class now? Come, I’ll walk you.” He slings his bag onto his shoulder and pushes the chair back. Stuffing your material into your bag, you imitate his actions before passing him a small smile. “Lets go.”
Interactions are limited to polite smiles and casual conversations about the class and your respective well being after that - and even if one may think that this is quite normal, it’s the start of a new acquaintanceship for you. You aren't one to interact with his group like the other kids of your class - not because they're rude or arrogant - no. But mostly because you shy away from the attention.
This limits your conversations with him, but you always find each other passing small smiles or chipping in points to each other’s ideas during group discussions. You're content with this easy atmosphere between the two of you, not really expecting much association with him individually after the library incident. Oh, if only you knew how much of your thoughts and space the Japanese boy would take up in the future.
𓈒⠀𓂃⠀⠀˖⠀𓇬⠀˖⠀⠀𓂃⠀𓈒
The music bleeds through the hallways, filling the empty space with the sounds of violin and piano. You're just about wrapping up with your club agenda for next week, rubbing a hand across your face to wipe away some of the tiredness seeping through your bones.
Being the president of the literary club demands dedication, effort and time. More so of the latter. And so you find yourself sitting in the vacant club room - long after the school hours have ended and the hallways gone quiet - trying to jot down points for the next activity.
You slump in your chair after some futile efforts, opting against finishing the agenda and rather having half the mind to dash home and binge watch the entire season of Two Broke Girls again. But one thing about you is that you’re awfully adamant on finishing whatever you start. Its something that has caused you to often neglect your health many a time.
Just as you pick up your pen, your hear the violin again, and your brows furrow. The schools good as empty now, save for some of the cleaning staff….so where’s the sound coming from? The hasty writing of yours stares back at you, as if trying to get you to finish it fast.
The chair ultimately screeches back, and you get up, closing the book. A small break wont hurt, right? Your feet drag you out of the room and into the hall, the music getting louder. The closer you walk to the dance room, the more it amplifies. You come to a halt right in front of the dark blue door, which guards the source of the melody gracing your ears.
The pads of your fingertips connect to the cool metal of the handle and you hesitate just for a beat, before slowly cracking the door open. You immediately spot a figure inside - a boy, and your first thought is to close the door and go about your work again. You wouldn’t want to intrude.
But before your brain can even catch up with you, his head snaps towards the door and he freezes mid step. Staring right back at you with surprise gleaming in his eyes, is Riki. You’re already moving to close the door before he can process the situation. “I am so sorry, I didn’t know you were in here and I swear I didn’t mean to disturb your routine, its just I thought someone left the player on again and-”
“Stay.” His voice cuts smoothly through your rambling and you freeze, hand still on the handle - and the thin line of sweat forming on it. “I mean, I don’t mind if you stay.” He adds on quickly after taking in your response. You debate it for a second, but the way hes looking at you so expectantly makes you step inside and shut the door.
He passes you a small smile before wordlessly restarting his routine again and you cozy yourself in the corner of the room, body slumped against the wall. Your eyes follow his movements in the mirror, watching how he moves so gracefully - as if he doesn’t have to take any efforts to execute the dance.
His eyes lock with yours briefly and you look away, embarrassed for being caught. He probably thinks you're weird and creepy now-
But he smiles. You don’t catch it of course, too busy over-thinking and fiddling with your necklace to notice.
Cute.
Riki drops beside you after his routine ends, a bit too close for someone who you strongly consider an acquaintance at best. “What are you doing here?” He runs a hand through his sweaty hair and chugs his water down, eyeing you curiously.
You look at him confused. “Oh sorry. I meant to ask what you were doing in school this late. It’s almost 5PM.”
“Club work.” You sigh, resting your cheek on your knees pulled close. “I have to finish planning activities for next week. Miss Kim wants us to host an event to convince other people to join.” He listens to you speak and wonders if its possible for someone to be so soft spoken.
A comfortable silence settles between the two of you then, the occasional honk of a car in the distance the only sound disrupting it. He mirrors your position after a while, beady eyes poring into you.
“Can I ask you something?” A hum vibrates in your chest. “Yes?”
“Do you want to do this often? I mean- hang out. I want to get to know you. Not just the classmate version of you.”
You fall silent for a beat. “…why?” you barely whisper. “Why would you want to know me? I'm not…. that interesting.”
“I think I’ll be the judge of that, don’t you think?” He smiles then, and you think your heart stops for a second. Your lips quirk up slowly, a small, genuine smile lighting your face up. It’s a small gesture, honestly. But for Riki - oh -he feels like he’s achieved something better than winning a dance competition.
𓈒⠀𓂃⠀⠀˖⠀𓇬⠀˖⠀⠀𓂃⠀𓈒
The meet-ups slowly become routine for the two of you. He always finds you sitting in the corner of the library, tucked away and reading to pass time. Everyday, he shows up and stays hours upon hours, sometimes telling you about his dance crew, sometimes discussing the books you’ve read.
On some slow days, you visit him in the dance room, watching him move across the floor with admiration and respect in your eyes. You sit and chat until the red hues of the horizon bleed into the sky after his routines, occasionally accompanying a small snack box with you which he wholeheartedly accepts.
By the time sophomore year rolls in, you’ve grown inseparable. Hanging out with Riki changes you quite a bit, your reserved persona blossoming into a more carefree and social one.
Your friends notice the change. They whisper about how he’s different with you - always leaving little notes and candies on your desk, but you brush it off as an act of kindness, convincing both yourself and your girls that Riki’s just thoughtful like that.
Hes nice, polite even. He cares for everyone, yes. But he doesn’t stay at school late until only the whispers of the wind echo the building - waiting for his friends to finish council duties. Only for you though, he does.
Its safe to say that his lighthearted humor; his habit of always caring, and that soft smile is a bit too much for your fifteen year old self, and you find yourself falling for him, gradually but surely.
As always, you're heading back to class, filling the air with discussions of exams and plans for the weekend, when you spot something that grasps both your attention and your breath. “Aren’t they so pretty?” Your finger is pointed towards a beautiful bloomed pink lily which sits in the soil beside the sidewalk.
Riki’s chatter dies down and he observes how your face lights up at the flower, like its existence is enough to brighten your day. “Do you like lilies?” He asks, moving forward to pluck it for you. The gasp you let out is part shock part happiness. “Yes, very much.” And the pure awe that gleams in your eyes while you gently wrap your fingers around the stem makes Riki decide then and there, that this wont be the last time you receive them.
He shows up at your doorstep on the last day of senior year as always, and in his hand, with no doubt - is a bouquet of meticulously arranged white and pink spider lilies. You crack a grin, gratefully accepting the flowers and replacing them with the old ones in your vase - which you'd invested in last year after Riki made it clear that the lilies were going to be a recurring occurrence.
”Final day of the last year of school, how we feeling?” The door clicks shut behind you and he reaches a hand out to ruffle your hair, causing you to swat his hand away. “I don’t know, I’m really glad we don’t have to deal with Mr. Choi and his 10 page essays, but I think I’ll really miss this. Like….everything.”
”Speak for yourself angel, I'm so glad I’m leaving this stupid institution.” You frown at that, kicking a pebble as you walk beside him. “You wont even miss the dance crew?” You can practically see the gears in his brain shifting before he sends a lazy grin your way. “Ill miss you more than anything.” Your eyes roll and you playfully shove him, ignoring the way your heart stutters at his words.
“Okay, wrap it up.” He chuckles at your response, pulling you closer to him by the hem of your blazer. “C’mon angel, you know I jest.” The walk to school is peaceful, the air around your filling with mindless conversations. “What are you doing after school today?” His voice is hushed, hesitant.
“Why?”
“I wanna show you something.” His fingers card through his hair, brushing the stray strands out of his eyes. A brow quirks up and you pass him a not so amused look. “Yea, the last time you said that I almost threw up crying from that blasphemous haunted house.” He offers you a sheepish - slightly regretful smile at that, lips turning up into a barely there pout.
He always got like this whenever he wanted something out of you, and knowing him, there was a near definite chance that he’d get it. “Please, angel? I promise its nothing like that this time. You'll really like it, trust me.” With a skeptic click of your tongue and a barely convinced sigh, you decide to indulge in him this once. “Fine.”
.
.
.
“I’m scared and I’m too young to die Nishimura.” You call out from below. He laughs. He laughs. Nothing about this situation was funny considering his idea of “fun” was risking your life to stare at the evening city skyline.
You’d found Riki in the middle of shirt signing, right after your last class. He’d spotted you almost immediately, and had excused himself with a boyish grin. “Lets go. Are you excited?” He’d tugged onto your hand and pulled you up towards the stairwell. “Gee, sure I am.” You had replied, though your tone was anything but, more so laced with uncertainty and a hint of sarcasm.
Now you stand on the balcony of your school, staring at him climbing a ladder that leads to the water tanks almost 5 feet above the initial ground. “Get down, im not gonna get up there.” He passes you a conspiratory smile and you shake your head, taking three steps back with slightly nervous scoff.
“Nope. No. I’m gonna leave-” Before you can even blink he jumps down from the ladder and grabs your arm, pulling you towards the metal piping. “Stop being such a debby downer, you’ll be fine.” You let out a more offended scoff at that. Debby downer? This was your safety we’re talking about. What if you fall- or worse- die?!
Okay. maybe you were being a littleee dramatic. But can you blame a girl? The last time he’d said these words you’d almost spiraled into thinking a seven foot tall talking mummy with a machete was going to manifest in the middle of the room. Oh, you hated those god forsaken haunted houses.
“Breathe, angel. I wont let you fall.” His voice interrupts your unpleasant flashback and you frown at him. “Fine, but im gonna haunt you for life if I do.” He shakes his head with an amused laugh and lets you climb the ladder first. Just as you reach the top, you let out a small sigh and brush your hands to get off any dust.
He follows right after, hoisting both your bags on the wall, swinging his legs over the ledge, and pulling you to sit down beside him. You gasp at the view you’d been ignoring due to nerves and the sight mesmerizes you.
The city sky line stretches out for as long as your eye can see, and the sky looks like a canvas, all reds and yellows and oranges mixing in together. You cant see where it ends and where the towers start - the entire image overwhelming you in the greatest way. Below you, far in the distance, you spot the cars and people dashing towards wherever they have to be, and you realize - really, how small the world can be from up here.
“Do you like it?” You don’t look at him, only nod. “Yea.” He smiles, long fingers slowly reaching out to yours. He entwines them and quietly drops your hands in his lap, turning his head to stare at your side. Riki doesn’t think he’s seen anything more stunning in his entire life.“Has my whole heart.” He whispers. You still think hes referring to scenery and hum, a wide smile spreading across your face. “I can see why.”
But when you look at him, he’s not looking forward. Instead, his eyes are fixated on you. “I…..want to talk to you.” You squeeze your hand in his, encouraging him with a playful smile. “You’re talking right now.” A chuckle rumbles in his chest and he scoots closer. He shifts his focus on the horizon now, voice low and calm, like he has all the time in the world.
“Remember that time when I bruised my jaw during basketball season?”
“The fist fight back in grade 10?”
“Yea.” He smiles lightly. “You had walked all across the court and lectured me in front of my team.” You furrow your brows. “Why are you bringing that up-”
“Let me finish.” His thumb traces light patterns over your hand. “I was kind of pissed in the moment I’m not gonna lie. But then after the game you cleaned my wounds, and I saw those tears in your eyes.” A pause. “No one had worried for me like you do, and my heart broke a little watching you fuss over my stupidity.” There’s silence for a beat, and his gaze drops to your tangled fingers. “I think that’s when I decided I cant let you go. Ever.”
Your breath catches in your throat at the implication. “What do you mean-”
“I love you.” The three words ring out in the silent air and your heart nearly explodes. He’s looking at you now, staring as if he’s trying to memorize every line on your face.
You don’t know what to say, brain scrambling to process everything. “You….” The door to the balcony bursts open and you hear the voices of your friends calling out to you, but you’ve already tuned everything out.
His eyes drops to your lips and his free hand brushes the strand of hair off your cheek. “I do.” His voice has dropped to a whisper and you here another incoherent yell from one of his friends this time. “May I?” Your head moves on your own, nodding only once.
He closes the gap between you and presses his lips onto yours, pausing to make sure you’re really okay with this. You move then, softly capturing his own into your mouth. Sweet. He tastes so sweet. You think.
Your eyes shut close and he pulls you impossibly closer with the hand tangled in his lap and you melt into his touch. His thumb grazes your cheek softly, head tilted for better access.
Click!
The sounds of a camera shutter goes off and your senses finally take in the excited cheering of your friends from below. You break the kiss slowly, unwilling to open your eyes just in case you’re dreaming - but the firm squeeze of his hand confirms that this is very much real. A small but genuine giggle slips past you as you take him in - his face glowing in the dusk, a wide grin decorating his face. His eyes are upturned into soft crescents. “I love you too” You whisper loud enough for him to hear.
Jungwon - a mutual friend- has already climbed up the ladder by now, and he announces his arrival pretty loudly. “Ohmygod finally!” The small bubble you and Riki had formed breaks, and the two of you swing your legs over the ledge and get up, greeting the older boy.
“Thanks a lot hyung. We were kind of having a moment here.” Riki’s voice bleeds out with disapproval and slight annoyance, only gaining a loud laugh from the latter. You notice him waving the camera in his right hand dramatically. Ah, so he clicked the picture.
With barely contained excitement, he shoves the camera in your face- very proudly showing you the picture he took. “Don’t you look so adorable? Took the two of you long enough.”
The film captures a still image of you and Riki with your lips locked. The golden-orange light of the setting sun reflects on your faces and you notice how both of you are smiling mid kiss. You crane your neck to look at him, only to find that his focus is already on you. And then he gives you that boyish smile you’ve come to adore over the years. Its perfect.
This is perfect.
You hadn't imagined this for your last ever day of high school, but you were sure you’d cherish it the most.
Later that evening, Riki comes by with a bouquet red lilies, different to the pink ones you’re so used to seeing. He asks you to be his girlfriend, handing the arrangement to you. The confusion on your gleeful face doesn’t go unnoticed by him. You place the flowers in your familiar vase and jump into his embrace, agreeing to his wish and kissing his cheek.
“Red lilies symbolize love, angel.” The two of you are tangled on your couch, replaying Frozen for the umpteenth time. You tilt your head backwards from your position in between his legs and hum.
“What?” He looks down at you from behind, a soft smile playing on his lips. “I got you red ones instead of pink because red symbolizes love. It represents passion.” You always knew that Riki was thoughtful, but this- oh this - it showed that he cares.
His silent actions make you want to say so much - to express how grateful you are for everything, but you opt for a more hushed, quieter gesture. “Thank you.” You shift in his embrace, movie temporarily forgotten.
”For the flowers?”
“No. For being there for me. For loving me.” And the way he looks down at you with such pure and unfiltered affection confirms the one thought in your head.
It will always be him.
“You're single handedly keeping the floral boutique business running.” A light chuckle slips past your lips as you refill the water in the vessel. He grins, leaning against your doorway. “They should pin me as their star customer if you ask me.” You straighten the petals of the fresh bouquet you placed inside the vase, an assortment of pinks and reds adding decor to your living room.
”You spend too much on them Riki! I cant possibly allow you to invest so much on flowers that eventually wither.” Its like scolding a child, really. He’s awfully stubborn when it comes to this. Don’t get me wrong now, you’ve had this conversation with him far too many times since high school, but he insists on getting them every single time, no matter how expensive.
Two strong hands wrap around your waist from behind and you feel his hair nuzzle your jaw. His head drops to your shoulder, lips pressing to your skin. “Hmmm….at least my love for you will never wither.” His hum rings in his throat, sending tiny vibrations down your spine. “You’re so cheesy Nishimura.”
”You love it angel.” A laugh slips through your lips and you hum, spinning around in his grasp and kissing his jaw. Because you do. You really really do love it.“You shouldn’t be here. Don’t you have class?” Your fingers reach up to fix his hair, which he’d recently dyed blonde as per your request.
After high school, the two of you had mentally prepared yourselves for a long distance relationship, knowing that your dreams laid on different paths.
But fortunately, Jungwon - who was also in your college - had somehow convinced Riki’s parents to let him stay rather than shift back to Japan. And so his nineteen year old self stood here currently with you captured in his arms, grinning up at him.
“Who cares about class?” A small smack lands on his chest and he winces. “Your GPA. The dream job you want. Miss Choi who keeps tormenting poor Heeseung over you.”
His eyes roll at your words, mumbling out in a very bored tone, “Yea well he deserves it- ow! Stop hitting me!” Another firm smack lands on his chest- except this time, harder. “He was trying to find you all over campus last week. Did you tell him you were at the studio?” A sheepish smile colors his face. “…Maybe?” You glare at him, thinking of a way to get him to seriously attend his class. “Okay but I genuinely was going to go to fix my new dance routine…”
“And then..?” You pry, voice already knowing. “…And then I kinda got distracted and ended up in your apartment…but only because I missed you!” He adds on quickly.
You click your tongue, and untangle yourself from his grasp, worried for the boy. There’s no way he can keep this up, for both your and his sake. Maybe Heeseung’s too. “Yea right. You cant keep using that excuse every time to woo your way out. Get to class, now.” Hes already being pushed out your door. “But-”
“Out, now.”
He gives up and lets you shove him outside, eyeing you warily. “Okay but my kiss-”
Slam!
The door shuts in his face, and he can hear your voice muffled through the other side. “Attend all your classes for a week and you’ll get it.”
You hear him sigh outside your door and the sounds of footsteps retreating. Riki could be so difficult when he wanted to, but you liked his quiet stubbornness sometime. It gave you some entertainment.
With a final shake of your head at the door, you retreat back to your room to finish the ongoing assignment you had been writing before he showed up. You silently thank the gods that it’s Thursday, which meant you had a free schedule for the entire day.
.
.
.
After 4 hours of cramming your back in a preposterous position in a hard wooden chair - which you were sure you’d regret later on- you allow the pen to slip from your fingers, eyes trailing to the digital clock on your desk. It reads 18.45. Had you really been writing for that long?
Fingers flexing, you only then register how much your knuckles hurt from staying bent for so long. The chair screeches backwards and you stand, stretching your body. Time for a break. Your feet pad through the quiet atmosphere and lead you towards the kitchen.
You swing your pantry door open, eyes raking over the snacks that you have. Where’s the cheese ramen? Cookies…..muffins….doritos…what the hell. You double check, and then triple check just for sure, eyebrows furrowing in slight frustrated confusion. Did Heeseung finish all of them? You had 4 packs. Oh, when you get your hands on that devil-
Ring!
The doorbell interrupts your grand scheme of revenge (Filling Heeseung’s bed with plastic cockroaches) and you grumble, mildly irritated. You trudge to the hall and roll your eyes when the ringing continues impatiently. “Oh my god, I’m coming! Jeez!” The door swings open and before you can even blink, a series of people - boys, specifically- shove their way inside your living space.
A paw to your foot snaps you out of your initial daze and you almost instantly smile, picking the little white furball up. “Maeum, my baby!” He licks your face eagerly as you coddle him, squishing him against your cheek.
“I would appreciate some of that treatment too.” Your focus finally shifts to the 4 boys sprawled out on your couch as if they own it, eyes locking with Riki who is currently glaring at the canine. “Everyone except Sunoo is free to leave by the way.”
A collective gasp echoes in the air at your words with the sole exception of Sunoo - who looks awfully delighted. “I told you she likes me the most.” Maeum jumps out of your arms and settles down in Jungwon’s lap - who is currently busy trying swat Heeseung for pinching him. You sigh and shut the door which had been open and make your way towards the couch.
With a pout, Riki pulls you next to him beside Heeseung almost immediately and you frown. “Did you attend all your classes?” He nods. “All of them?” You ask again, looking at Heeseung for confirmation who only nods.
Riki points at his lips and taps, pulling you closer to him with a hand on your wrist. A whisper of disbelief leaves your mouth, “You cant be real.” The plush of your lips connects with his and you offer him a small kiss. “EW. No PDA please.” You break away from him and stare at Heeseung incredulously. “This is my apartment which you sabotaged, mind you.”
He shifts farther away from you as to make a point and his face contorts into one of fake disgust. You squint your eyes, the dull ache of hunger in your stomach reminding you of the ramen stealing culprit. “So….” You start, and the attention shifts all on you. “I had 4 ramen packs stocked just last week….” Your eyes rake around the room casually, before stopping on Heeseung’s already guilty face. “I open my pantry today and all of them are gone!”
“What the fuck, I knew leprechauns were real.” All of you collectively shift your heads to stare at Jungwon and he only shrugs. “I hate those tiny green menaces.”
“No way Jungwon has made it this far in life.” Sunoo’s shock makes you crack up slightly, but you quickly regain composure, eyes pinning Heeseung down again. “Anyways, pray tell me Heeseung, do you know what happened to my Buldak?”
He slowly stands up from the couch and retreats to fiddle with his bag. His fingers fish for his wallet and he makes his way to the door. “I’ll buy you 7 packets as compensation.”
“So you admit eating all of them, you bigback!” You yell as he darts out the door, one shoelace still untied. “Im buying you more though woman!” He yells back and you scoff at his audacity. There’s no way this guy is four years older than you.
Maeum settles in your lap and Jungwon lets out a sound of betrayal before making space for Sunoo to sit comfortably. You absentmindedly pet the pup in your arms and lean into Riki’s shoulder. “Im so tired and bored.” He lodges his arm above you on the back rest, pulling you in closer. “By staying at home the whole day?”
He snickers at the glare you send him, pecking your forehead. “You know I jest, angel.” You sigh, briefly closing your eyes. “I’ve been writing that stupid assignment the whole day.”
“What assignment?” You lift your head up from his shoulder and snap your neck to Sunoo, who’s also in your major. “The one on romantic and victorian literature.” If Sunoo could turn any paler, he does in the moment. You sit up straighter at his reaction, disbelief plastered on your face. “Its literally 45% of our grade!”
The phone lodged in his hands drops and he stands up, pacing your living. “When was this announced? I didn’t know this! When is it due?” Maeum seems to notice the shift in atmosphere and lazily picks his head up before dropping it in your lap again. “Literally last week. Don’t worry though, you still have around 4 days to finish it.” You pause, and he shoots you a slightly uneasy look. “I sense a but.”
“Butt, lol.” Sunoo almost chucks his phone at Riki but restrains himself from getting tangled in a half murder case. “But…it has to be at least 25 pages long.” Even Jungwon gasps at this, momentarily distracted from whatever game he had been playing on his phone.
“25 pages?!” Sunoo almost falls to his knees in the middle of your apartment and Riki, as always, thinks this is hilarious. “Better get to writing, hyung.” The former snaps at him harshly, barely even letting him complete his sentence. “I don’t wanna hear anything from the dude who keeps skipping classes.” Riki’s laughter immediately ceases right when the doorbell rings and you get up to open the door.
Heeseung’s face twists into one of confusion at the sight of the brunette sulking on your carpet. “I literally only left for 15 minutes.” He kicks his shoes off and places the two heavy plastic bags he’d been carrying on the coffee table.
“He’s throwing a tantrum, don’t worry about it.” Riki cuts through, sending Sunoo a menacing smile, to which the latter only signs him the knife to throat gesture, sliding his thumb across his neck to mimic a slicing motion - a silent threat. “Count your days Nishimura Riki. You will go bald and your girlfriend will leave you.” Riki sticks his tongue out at the older, only trying to provoke him more.
“Eugh, mint chocolate icecream.” Jungwon - who had been quick to inspect the plastic bags - remarks whilst pulling out a tub of ice cream. That catches both your and Sunoo’s attention, and the boy completely forgets his previous conversation, sitting up straight at the words ‘mint’ and ‘icecream’
“I figured we should just have group dinner since its pretty late and we’re all here.” Heeseung sits beside Sunoo on the carpet and you retreat to the kitchen to put the sweet in the freezer and grab some plates. By the time you come back, the other two boys have also made themselves comfortable on the carpet, huddling around the parcel of takeout. Maeum claims the sofa to himself and decides to sleep peacefully.
You set the dishes down on the table and settle in between Jungwon and Heeseung. The younger reaches for his bag and tries to find something whilst the rest of you plate dinner.
“Hey guys!” You all look at him waving a deck of UNO cards in his hand, a devilish smirk plastered on his face. “Wanna play UNO?”
𓈒⠀𓂃⠀⠀˖⠀𓇬⠀˖⠀⠀𓂃⠀𓈒
“Pick two more.” Sunoo smirks at Jungwon’s move as he places a yellow card down over his own. “Pick up four.” The laugh that Jungwon lets out almost scares you out of your skin. “pick up EIGHT!” The card slams down on your poor coffee table and you can only watch from where you’ve settled down on the sofa.
Three rounds into the game and Heeseung had decided to leave, announcing that his girlfriend needed help with her project. The remaining four of you only knew those were excuses to get out of the never-ending card game but didn’t pry. Two more rounds later Riki had flipped the table and decided to ragequit. Eventually, you had gotten tired of his incessant pouting and huffing from beside you and decided to withdraw.
Now - almost one hour into the game - only Jungwon and Sunoo are left, and as much as you can make out, none of them are willing to back down. Sunoo reels back with giggles, slapping his lap as he plucks a card from the deck he’s holding, and Jungwon’s face instantly drains color.
“Pick up…..twelve.” Jungwon’s cards slam down and he stands up, pointing at the other. “That’s cheating!!” Sunoo’s rolling on the carpet at this point, cards long forgotten.
“Ohmygod you really thought you were gonna win, didn’t you?” - A gasp of air - “Ohmygod your face was pure gold” He cackles, and you almost feel bad for the younger boy.
Riki’s head shifts in your lap and he lets out a bored groan. “Its literally just a game hyung. Tone it down.” Both heads snap simultaneously towards him. “You flipped the fucking table!” A second groan slips out of him - turning sides and burying his face in the plush of your skin.
The next hour is just a bunch of yelling, blaming, and Sunoo ragebaiting Jungwon like he gets paid for it. With a heavy sigh, you shift Riki off your lap to break Jungwon apart from Sunoo - who is currently tackled to the ground. “Okay, its getting late you two.”Jungwon peels himself off first, rolling his eyes. “Whatever, I demand a rematch.”
Sunoo snickers, brushing his sweatshirt clean. “Sore loser.” You’re tugging Jungwon up and about towards the door before he turns even more red from Sunoo’s teasing, lightly scolding him to wear his shoes.
Riki sits up straighter now, shaking his head with disappointment. “Real mature guys.” He decides to finally help you kick the two out of your apartment, grabbing their bags and Sunoo’s arm before dragging him towards the door. “Let me have my girlfriend to myself. Goodnight.”
They can barely get a word in before the door closes on their faces. You let out a loud sigh, walking back to tidy your apartment. The two of you work silently for the next few minutes, finally dropping on the sofa after cleaning after your friends.
You hardly even get to adjust on the sofa before Riki’s pulling you up to your feet again, which you highly disapprove of. He tugs you to you door, and your brows furrow. “What? What now?”
“Just come.” He replies, putting his shoes on and grabbing your keys. The door locks after you pull it shut, following him into the lobby. He presses the elevator and nudges you inside, jabbing the button for the last floor. “Do you know someone up there or…” You trail off, slightly baffled.
A ding hums when you reach the last floor and the doors open. He laces your fingers with his and gently pulls you in the direction of the stairs leading to your building’s balcony.
Cool wind with the hint of something delicious wafting in the air graces you when he shoves the rackety door to the balcony open. You walk to the ledge, leaning over your elbows to admire the nightlife of your city.
The moon shines brightly tonight, and the late hour gives you a sense of peacefulness. Riki leans beside you, chin dropped in his palm. “The moon is beautiful, isnt it?” You shoot him an easy smile, sliding over closer to him. “It is.”
You needed this. After such a chaotic evening, you were ready to crash right into your bed, but this - being here with him - was much better.
“Look.” He quietly points to an aeroplane in the starry sky, a red light twinkling as it covers the expanse of black. “That’s gonna be me some day. Flying the plane, I mean.” You shift your focus onto his features; the way he looks so content and in awe whilst staring at the vehicle.
“And you'll be there with me.” He says, moving to look at you. You give him a confused smile, tilting your head. “I don’t think I should be flying planes, baby.” He pulls you in till your shoulders are bumped together, a firm hand on your waist as he stares back up at the now empty sky.
“No, of course not,” he chuckles, “But I want my world to be able to see the entire world I’ll travel with me.” And the way he says it makes you go weak in the knees. You kiss him then, under the stars, your own way of promising that no matter what, you’ll always be right by his side.
Flowers, as well as a hand clutching them invade your vision abruptly. “Boo!”
The sound breaks your train of memories and you flinch, the photo album dropping from your hands with a thud onto the tiled floor. Your head whips around from where you’re sat on the sofa and a squeal leaves your mouth.
Riki quickly places the flowers on the nearest surface, and catches you when you jump into his arms, spinning you around once before putting you down on your feet. “You’re back early! Weren't you landing tomorrow?” He places his aviator’s cap on your head, intentionally crooked. The fabric of his crisp uniform wrinkles lightly when his arms flex to wrap around your waist, securing you to his chest. “Mmm, surprise.” He hums out, his voice rumbling deeply in his chest.
The way you’re grinning hurts your cheeks, as you wrap your own arms around his neck, pulling him in for a kiss. Your lips move against his and he shifts, inhaling deeply. “I missed you so much..” He murmurs, hands running up and down your waist as he captures your lips once again.
You giggle, fingers carding through his oreo locks as you pull away. “I missed you too baby.” He searches for your lips again, eyes hooded and expectant, but you pull back slightly and peck the corner of his mouth, deliberately missing his lips. “Slow down captain, you should get some rest first.”
He groans, seemingly had enough of your teasing before effortlessly throwing you onto his shoulder and making his way to your shared bedroom. You let out a surprised yelp- cap falling down- to which he responds with a playful spank to your ass.
“I haven't seen my wife in two weeks. I plan on ravishing her.” You squeal, hitting his back. “Riki!”
The door clicks shut behind you, and he places you onto your bed, smirking. “Nope. I can rest later.Right now I need to show you just how much I missed you.”
Rays of morning light filter through the sheer curtains, falling directly in your room and onto your bed. You groan and stir, the dull pain throbbing in you lower half serves as a reminder of your activities last night. He really hadn't been lying when he said he missed you.
A tiny yawn slips through your lips and your eyes barely crack open while you try to sit up straight, but a strong arm pulls you closer and a groan resonated from behind your back.
“Where are you going?” Riki’s voice gruffs out, still laced with sleep. He tightens his grip on your waist and snuggles his face into the space between your shoulder. “I have to freshen up, baby.” You coo out, mind replaying all the ways he took you apart a few hours ago when his bare thigh brushes against yours.
“Later. Sleep now.” He mumbles, half asleep. And you close your eyes once again, sighing in his touch.
A soft kiss to your neck wakes you up and your body rolls around to snuggle into a firm chest. Riki smiles, half conscious. His arms squeeze you tightly and he drops his head in your hair to inhale your scent. “Morning angel.”
You stir, grumbling out a small good morning back, but making no efforts to get up and start your day. Instead, your face presses into his skin and you hum in content, to which Riki lets out a small giggle, and decides to stay like this for a while.
Oh, how he missed you in his arms.
Late mornings with Riki were something you always looked forward to religiously, considering how less you saw him nowadays. He had been very serious about taking you everywhere with him, but 4 flights in and you had gotten immensely tired of the constant travel.
The two of you bought a small apartment then, in a peaceful neighborhood right after your marriage. It wasn’t big or grand, but it was home. “I want to spend my time with you in the quiet. The airport is loud enough for me.” He had said, and so you had picked a comfy 4 room apartment on the 12th floor, since Riki had always loved the thrill of being far above from the ground.
You had settled down as a high school teacher, part timing at a local animal shelter on the weekends. That’s where you had found Bisco, a cute chocolate colored pup who had stared up at you like you were meant to be.
This was the life you had always dreamed of - a nice home, a well paying job, a cute little canine, and Riki, always by your side. It couldn’t get any better than this, really.
𓈒⠀𓂃⠀⠀˖⠀𓇬⠀˖⠀⠀𓂃⠀𓈒
The scent of pancakes hits your senses as you step out of the bathroom, steam pouring out behind you. Water trickles down your neck and lightly drips onto your shirt from your freshly washed hair. You walk into the kitchen, humming at the delicious aroma. “I love it when you’re home, you know.”
Riki stands near the stove with a pair of sweatpants clinging to his waist and your pink apron tied around his bare upper half, ceremoniously flipping the pancakes with a spatula. “Why? Because you miss my beautiful face?”
You snort and hoist yourself up on the counter beside where he stands, observing the coffee he’s got brewing. “Nah, because I get princess treatment since you basically do all my work for me.” He frowns and pinches your thigh with his free hand. “My wife hates me and wants me to die. Am I nothing but a slave to you?”
You swat his arm away, rubbing your skin. “I can’t believe you're so dramatic. What will your colleagues say when they see their captain whining?” He plates the food and puts the pan in the sink, lodging himself between your thighs. Both his hands settle on either side of the counter and he leans, boxing you in.
“Nothing much for them left to say when they already know my gorgeous wife has me whipped.” He murmurs, leaving a wet trail of kisses along your neck and jaw. You laugh, throwing your head back. A hand slaps his shoulder as you weakly try to push him away. “Don’t start now, the pancakes are getting cold!”
He hums, continuing his ministrations. “The pancakes can wait. Just one kiss, please?” The plush of his lips connect to your shoulder and you shake your head. “We both know its more than just one kiss Nishimura. I'm still sore from last night.” He smirks at that, pulling back and raking his eyes over your body. “Ooh, you were so loud-”
“Shut up!” You swat his shoulder again, pushing him and sliding past his frame to the dining table. He follows right after you, plates in hand and laughter echoing the space. “What?” he draws out, “I'm just stating facts!”
With a huff, you seat yourself down across him, crossing your arms. “Oh yea? Well…” A bouquet of lilies sitting on the far end of the table catches your attention and you trail off, reaching over to inspect them.
They feel different at first touch, and on closer observation you realize that they aren't the soft, scented ones you’re so familiar with. You run your fingers along the pink petals, glancing at him. “These are fake.” It’s a statement, not a question.
He hums, swallowing the piece of pancake he was chewing and reaching over to his mug of coffee. “Astute observation miss english teacher.” You roll your eyes, mindlessly caressing the plastic softly. He grins when he sees that irritation on your face and silently laughs. “Oh c’mon, you know I jest, angel.”
His hand reaches out to yours from across the surface and he gently plays with your fingers, taking a sip of his coffee. “You know how I used to bring you flowers every week?” Your head snaps up to look at him.
“I used to do it so that the lilies in your vase never wither….but now with me in a different country almost every month, I don’t like coming back to the sad wilted ones.” His thumb traces patterns over your skin and you place the flowers down beside you, watching his lips upturn in a genuine smile. “So I thought I’d give you ones that will always stay fresh- well, not exactly…but they’ll never wither, no matter what.” Your heart tugs at his thoughtfulness and you quickly move to place them in your vase, discarding the wilted ones which had been sitting there for a little more than 2 weeks.
Riki smiles when you ruffle his hair whilst returning back to your seat. “Aww, that’s so sweet baby, thank you so much.” Bisco jumps into his lap and the two of you divert your attention to the little canine. He lets out a bark and licks Riki’s face as to make his presence known. “Bisco babyy! Did you miss dad?” The pup barks again at that and Riki lets out a laugh, snuggling him.
The morning passes in laughter and Bisco’s funny antics which make you chase him all around the house. By the time you plop down on the sofa, its already lunchtime. Riki sits beside you, laying his head in your lap and staring up at your face. You look down at him when you feel his stare, chuckling lightly. “What now?” Your fingers card through his hair as you reach for the remote to play a movie.
“Nothing, just looking.” You glance at him again, choosing to replay Frozen. “Why? You leaving soon?” It’s a joke, but he shifts his head in your lap and you look down at him, face contorting into slight disappointment.
“.…When’s your next flight?” His eyes trail towards the Disney logo playing on the screen, the animation distracting him from the ugly bubble forming in his chest. “In a week.”
You fall silent at that, and he notices the change in your demeanor. “How long will you be gone this time?” You absently run your fingers through his hair, tugging at his roots occasionally and he sighs- gaze fixated on your frown. “….maybe 3 weeks.” The corners of your mouth deepen further and it sends a pang through his chest.
A heavy silence settles between you after you only reply with a hum, choosing to avoid the conversation and watch Anna sing. But Riki’s mind is spiraling, and his heart feels heavy with guilt. He doesn’t want you to be upset like this. You startle when he abruptly sits up straight and tugs you to your feet, switching the TV off. “Okay, no.”
You let him drag you to your room, fishing through your closet for a new set of clothes. “What….are you doing?” He barely even glances at you as he hands you a cute summer dress you’re yet to wear and pushes you in the direction of the bathroom.
“Taking you out on a date.”
.
.
.
The rest of the week passes by in a blur, filled with constant dates and late night runs to the grocery store or ice cream shop - just because. After your impromptu lunch outing the other day, Riki makes it his one and only goal to spend as much time as he can with you - partly also to keep you occupied and distracted from the fact that he’s leaving so soon.
The two of you lie in your bed now, bodies tangled in a mess of sweat and sheets. Another thing Riki had been hell bent on proving was how much he loved you - and so almost every night, you had found yourself coming undone beneath him as he whispered promises and sweet nothings in your ear.
Now, he drops onto you, groaning. The room falls quiet again- only disrupted by your heaving breathing. “You okay, angel?” He rolls off of you and pulls you into his chest. A slightly tired hum slips past your lips, and you trace the muscles on his biceps, falling into a comfortable silence.
“You think we should add to our family?” His voice comes out hushed, softly tearing through the atmosphere. You pull away to look at his face, sleepy eyes boring into his. “What, you want another puppy?” Riki presses his hand to your belly, wordlessly implying what he meant, and you gasp. “You mean….”
“Yes.” He caresses your cheek with the pad of his thumb, gazing in your eyes with assurance. “A mini me, or you - preferably you.” You smile, bringing your own hand up to place it on his. “I’d love that, yes.”
“Really?”
“Really.”
With that, the two of you drift off into a peaceful slumber- excited for what the future holds.
.
.
.
You wake up to a cold bed, eyes squinting to adjust to the surroundings and faint light intruding your vision. You sit up and blink, regaining half of your senses when a pair of lips connect to your cheek. “Sleep well, angel?” You hum, stretching. Once you’re out of your initial sleep filled daze, you manage to process the surroundings - Bisco in your bed, Riki already in his uniform, and a small suitcase standing beside him.
“You’re leaving already?” Riki wishes he can stay here with you forever, because the way you ask so innocently -barely awake and rubbing your eyes - makes him go weak. “Yes, baby. I have to.” You pout and nod as if you're unwilling to accept it.
“Okay, I’ll freshen up.” You fiddle with the hems of your blanket and throw it off of you, making your way to the bathroom. 30 minutes later, you’re standing dressed and full with the breakfast you ate - frowning down at the boy in front of you.
He crouches up from his former position after securing his right lace, and brushes his dress pants. “Can’t Heeseung sub for you?” He chuckles and pulls you in closer by the elbow, caressing your face. “You know it doesn’t work that way. Plus Heeseung is on paternity leave, remember?”
You lean into his touch, briefly closing your eyes. “Hmm…when’s that gonna be you?” Riki lets out an airy laugh and leans down to peck your forehead. “When I come back, I’ll be sure to make you a mom, okay?” You nuzzle his hand, cracking your eyes open and whispering softly, “Okay, I’ll look forward to it.” The pads of your fingers brush against his aviator’s cap and you straighten it, grinning. “Our baby will be so cute.”
“Just like you.” he reaches out to pinch your cheek and you whine, fixing his collar one last time. “Fly safely.” Riki rolls his eyes, pulling you in for a kiss. “You know I always do, angel.” You sigh after breaking away from him. “I still worry.” He leans down to peck your cheek and clutches his suitcase, smiling at you in your doorway. “I’ll be back in no time.”
With a final hug, he steps out of your house and into the early morning - on his way for the airport.
The keys rattle in your doorknob and you sigh as the door shakes unceremoniously. Exam papers in one hand, and a grocery bag in the other, you struggle to unlock your apartment without dropping either of the material on the floor.
Finally with a huff, the door creaks open and you stumble inside, feet leading you to the dining table. You let out a sigh once the weight from your hands is put down on the surface, and you drop into the chair.
Finals week is such a disaster.
The uncorrected sheets stare back at you, and you contemplate whether to ease the hunger in your stomach or reduce your workload. Just as you’re about to spiral between the two choices, a ring cuts through and diverts your attention.
Your fingers fish for your phone in your coat pocket and the wary look on your face quickly disappears when you read the caller ID and swipe to pick up.
“Hi angel.” Riki’s voice cuts through the speaker and you relax, mind melting away all your worries for a moment. “Hi baby, how’s the Netherlands treating you?” You hear some shifting on his side accompanied by a soft grunt. “Its really beautiful. We should come here sometime, you’ll totally love it.”
You chuckle, shrugging your coat off. “Maybe we should have a second honeymoon then.”
“Done. I’m totally ready to recreate it.” His almost instant reply to your suggestion only makes you laugh louder, shaking your head at his silly eagerness. “Dork.”
“You love me, though.”
He tells you about the things he saw over the past 2 and a half weeks and you tell him about school - the exams, your students, the absolutely preposterous answers your 15 year old children have written.
He laughs through your narration, asking a question or two in between. “Oh, by the way..” Riki’s voice trails off and you hum, urging him to continue. “I saw this beautiful bed of lilies today - they were coincidentally pink too.” A pause, “Did you know that the Netherlands grow the most lilies in the world? And they're somehow the prettiest ones. I immediately thought of you.”
You shift your posture, reaching out to the fake ones in your vase to dust them off. “You miss me that much, captain?” You can practically sense him rolling his eyes from there and silently snicker. “God forbid I try be romantic to my wife.”
You hum, teasing. “Don’t worry baby, I miss you too.” He seems content with your reciprocal and proceeds to yawn. “I’ll be there with you by this time tomorrow, with a very real bouquet.” Another yawn. “You know I was just joking with the plastic ones, right?”
“They’re pretty though.” You set them back in the vase and pet Bisco- who had made home in your lap halfway through the call. “Not as pretty as the real ones.” His voice is heavier now and you smile at the phone. “Okay Riki. Go to sleep.” He grumbles on the other side. “But I wanna listen… to your….voice” His sentence trails off and you know how stubborn he can get.
“You can listen to me talk your ear off all you want tomorrow, but go to bed now. You have an early flight baby.” Your stern but soft voice finally compels him to listen and he shifts again.
“Fine. Goodnight, angel.”
“Good night, fly safe tomorrow.”
“I always do.”
.
.
.
Riki’s flight had been scheduled for 6 in the morning, far early for you to give him a call, so he had decided to text you before taking off.
Huzzband🫶🩷🤭
Hi angel, good morning <3
Taking off in 30 mins
Imy :(
See u soon
Love you <33
Delivered
By the time you wake up, your phone already has a few notifications from him. You get up and reach out for the device, bleary eyes squinting at the screen as you type out replies and send him a picture of you and Bisco.
Good morning Rikiii :3
Fly safely!! Imy too baby :((
*One image sent*
Me and Bisco will be waiting for you!! Love youu <33
Delivered
You go about your day after texting him - moving around the house to tidy it. Thank god it’s a weekend. The rest of the day passes by relatively fast as you busy yourself in correcting papers, occasionally glancing at the clock. Bisco keeps you company, lazily resting around on the sofa whilst your hunched over paperwork, scribbling corrections and totaling marks onto a different sheet.
“Dad’s late, isnt he Bisco?” Your eyes are glued to the clock reading 21:30. Bisco whines in your lap which he’d settled in a few minutes ago, nudging your hand for pats. It wasn’t odd of Riki to come home way later after his flight had landed, but you would always receive a text from him the second he touched ground.
Huffing, you get up and Bisco scrambles off your lap. Its okay, maybe he forgot to text and went out with his colleagues. “Come Bisco, are you hungry?” The pup follows after you into the kitchen and eagerly waits near his bowl, watching as you crouch down and pour him some kibbles. “Good boyyy!” You coo out when he does a trick. “Momma will be outside, okay?” With a final pat to his head you stand up and make your way to the couch.
As you sit down, you contemplate whether to text Riki or not. Its pretty late, maybe you should. You pull out your phone and open his chat, your messages still left on delivered since morning. Just as your fingers move to tap the cursor, the bell rings.
You grin, phone forgotten as you peal yourself off the sofa and towards the door. Bisco joins you, curious eyes peeping to the wood. The door is pulled open by your hand and there- infront of you - stands Riki.
But there’s something off. His smile doesn’t reach his eyes and he hesitates to move. He must be tired. You think “Riki!” You throw yourself onto him and squeeze him tightly, but he doesn’t hug you back. You pull away, arms still looped around his neck as you stare into his eyes. “What’s wrong, baby?” He shakes his head, opening his mouth to say something - but is cut off by a loud bark.
Your head snaps down to the canine who is currently growling at your husband. That’s odd. Bisco never growls at the both of you. His growling gets louder and he almost scratches Riki’s calf, which finally causes you to step away from him and pick up the puppy- who is barking non stop.
“Hey, hey Bisco…what happened?” You pet him, trying to calm him down. “That’s dad, sweetie….why are you barking?” He’s baring his teeth at the man now- threatening him. You don’t know what to do with his peculiar behavior, and walk to his doggy room, placing him down on his bed. “Okayy, stay right here for now.” You mutter quietly, walking across the room and closing the door.
When you turn around, Riki is in the living room, staring at a photo frame - a picture from your wedding. You walk up behind him and wrap your arms around his waist- cheek pressing into the back of his uniform. Why does it smell like ash?
He flinches. Your brows furrow a bit, but the smile on your face stays, brushing it off as exhaustion. “I missed you sooo much baby.” You say, nuzzling your face into him. He sighs and turns around, wrapping his arms around your waist.
“I missed you too, angel.” He whispers, but his voice sounds different- you cant really place your finger on it, but there’s something heavy in his tone- as if he’s saying his words with finality.
You open your mouth to ask him about his flight, but the sharp ring of your phone cuts you off. Both your heads snap towards it and you move to pick it up. Why is Heeseung calling you at this hour? Riki plucks the phone out of your hand - silences it - and places it on the coffee table where your papers lay. “Talk to him later.” A confused look colors your face. “It might be important…Heeseung never calls this late.” Riki stares at you with a clenched jaw, pulling you in again. Your hands rest on his chest, and he drops his head onto your shoulder.
“Please. Im tired.” Your fingers find his clean locks and you caress him, a bit confused and startled when you feel drops of water wet your shirt. “Baby, are you crying?” You immediately try to pull back -worried- but he grips you harder, forcing you to stay still. You run your hand all across his back with a concerned frown, trying to soothe him. “Talk to me Riki….what happened?”
He shakes his head in your touch and lets out a sob. “Just…missed you too much.” You pull back and cup his cheeks in your palms. His eyes are red now and he looks genuinely sad. “I missed you too baby..don’t cry.” Your thumb swipes away a stray tear from his face and you lean in to kiss him, hoping that he’ll feel better.
He kisses you back with force, inhaling sharply. Its unlike all the other ones which are usually soft and slow - this one is fast, and he presses into you deeper, cupping your face in his hands and moving his lips quickly against yours, as if he’s running out of time.
He desperately leans back in when you pull away for air- and you shoot him a confused smile, tapping his cheek lightly. “Calm down, I’m not gonna go anywhere.” His eyes soften with something you cant quite make out, as if he knows something you don’t. With a peck to his cheek, you untangle yourself from his grip. “Go freshen up, I’ll order takeout and you can tell me all about Netherlands, okay?”
He stiffens and nods, mechanically walking to your bedroom. You plop yourself down on the sofa and start surfing for food, tapping against the screen quietly. Ultimately, you end up ordering from your local chinese place- confirming the payment. Right when you’re about to keep your phone aside, your attention shifts to all the messages you’re receiving.
The curiosity bubbles inside your chest and you click on the messages app, brows furrowing the further you scroll. Why is everyone asking if you’re okay? Why wouldn’t you be? Jungwon’s notification pops on your screen and you tap his name to open the chat.
Wonton 🥟🐱
Holy shit ohmygod did you check the news?
Please don’t
Fuck im so so sorry
Im worried, shit the gc is blowing up
*3 missed calls from Wonton🥟🐱*
Pick up.
*7 missed calls from Wonton🥟🐱*
Shit, please pick up
Are you okay?
Text me as soon as you see this please
Ykw fuck that, im coming over rn
Your fingers hover over the cursor, wondering what exactly is going on. Just as you’re about to type out a reply, the device is yanked away from you. Riki snuggles into your side, wrapping his arms around your body and hoisting you up into his lap. “Focus on me, angel.”
His clean woody scent hits your nostrils, although its very dull. You adjust yourself in his lap, smiling and playing with the ring around his ring finger. “Alright. Tell me everything.”
He talks to you through hushed whispers, always pausing and freezing when you mention doing something for the weekend or suggest going out on a date. You find his behavior very peculiar.
Riki’s never been the type to back out from a date - so whats up with him tonight?
“.….Speaking of flowers…” you interrupt his vivid description of the flower bed he saw. “You didn’t bring any back this time?” Your body turns in his lap, and your eyes lock with his already regretful ones. His hand comes up to tuck your hair behind your ear and he smiles sadly, shaking his head. “I couldn’t.” You pout, humming. “Why?”
How does Riki answer that question? How does he tell you something which isnt his place to tell? So he opts with hugging you tightly, resting his chin on the crown of your head. “I just couldn’t.” You respond with a sigh, nodding gingerly.
He proceeds to tell you about everything he has planned for you in the future - The name of your non-existent baby, his next flights, a trip he wants to take you and Bisco on.
Then- quieter- he asks you about your memories together- if you remember your first kiss, your late night conversations in your apartment, all those all nighters you pulled during final year, your wedding.
“You were the most beautiful thing I had ever seen when you walked down that isle.” You raise an eyebrow at his words, playfully pinching his bicep. “Were?”
He smiles and looks at your striking features, before letting out a soft whisper, “Still are.”
You peck his lips and open your mouth to say something, but hecuts you off by gently placing you off his lap and on to the space beside him- standing up to stretch. His actions are mimicked by you, and he sends you a longing smile- moving to kiss the entirety of your face before pulling back. “Ill go to the bathroom and be right back.” You giggle and nod, already missing the warmth on your cheek when his palm drops.
He walks into the dark hallway, out of your vision- and right on cue, the doorbell rings.
You open the door, fully expecting your takeout, but being greeted by a wrecked Jungwon instead. The smile on your face drops, and you usher him inside, voice laced with concern. “Jungwon? What happened?”
His eyes are bloodshot red - presumably from crying. It looks like he’s been running a hand through his hair constantly, judging by the unkempt state of it. You fetch him a glass of water and he stares at you in shock, voice completely hoarse. “…….You didn’t read the news, did you?”
You frown, placing the glass down on the coffee table and tilting your head. “What news?”
He gulps, unable to meet your eyes as fresh tears well up in his own. “Riki….”
You grin at your husband’s name and the boy in front of you stares in horror. “Oh, right! Don’t tell me you’re worried about him, silly! He got home about an hour ago and we’re gonna have dinner soon….you should join us-”
Jungwon firmly grasps your hand, his eyes blown wide in fear and sorrow. “Riki is no more.” The four words ring out loudly, engulfing the quiet apartment.
You rip your hands away from his, staring at him in disbelief and anger. The audacity of him to pronounce your very much living husband dead.
“What the fuck are you talking about?! Riki’s literally in the bathroom right now!”
Jungwon’s eyes soften a fraction and he reaches out - as if you’re a wounded animal, hesitating before wrapping his hands around yours.
“Listen to me, Riki is dead.” His tone seems final.
Your voice raises this time, and you yank him by the wrist, leading him to your bathroom. “You’ve gone crazy Jungwon. I’ve told you so many times to stop consuming so much of those stupid caffeinated drinks-” You slam the door open- only to be greeted by an empty darkness.
The grasp on his wrist loosens and you freeze, mind going blank. What? How could it be? You yourself had seen him go to the room- forget that, you had literally felt him, he’d been with you the entire time!
You take a step back- voice dying in your throat -unable to process whats happening. “How is this possible…..”
Jungwon stills behind you. “No…how is this possible?” You spin around on your heel, eyes crazed and face drained of color. “I saw him Jungwon…he came home-” A gasp for air, “He kissed me. That cant be fake, right? He kissed me and we cuddled and-” You’re grasping his shoulders, shaking him. “Hes alive. Im not crazy, hes alive.”
The boy stares at you in pity, slowly bringing his hands to remove yours from his shoulders - his silent voice slicing through your panicked one -
“Where are his things, then?” You freeze in place, mouth going dry. Where were his things? The living room-
Your feet carry you to the living hall, and only when you stop near the doorway do you remember - You hadn't seen his suitcase.
Your fingers grab the TV remote from the table, hand quivering as you jab in the numbers for the news channel. A bright image of a plane crash pops up, and the news anchor’s voice drills through your ears.
“..……….Decelis Air’s flight number BT340 which had been returning from the Netherlands to South Korea has reportedly crashed whilst landing. The time of accident has been estimated around 17:30PM. Upon initial investigation, it has been determined that there were issues with the aircraft’s control system, causing the vehicle to come down on the runway.
Unfortunately, the authorities have confirmed that there are no survivors. A total of 250 deaths have been estimated, out of which 10 are cabin crew, and two pilots - Lim Dowoon and Nishimura Riki.
My deepest condolences go out to each of the victim’s families…….”
You tune the rest of the noise out as the realization makes you drop to your knees. “No….no…this cant be true..” You shake your head, a sob heaving out of you as you keel over. “He’s not dead, he can’t be dead!” Jungwon switches the TV off and crouches in front of you, pursing his lips. “He’s gone, honey.” Your gaze snaps up at him and you shake your head frantically, eyes and throat burning. “NO!”
Two arms wrap around you and you shake, clutching his shirt. Jungwon caresses your hair, chin resting on your head as he tries to speak with his own quivering voice. “He didn’t make it. He’s gone.” Your head spins. Its getting harder to breath, and you don’t know what to do. “He’s here Wonnie, Riki’s going to come back to me-” Your vision blurs and you desperately claw at his shirt, gasping for air.
He pulls back in worry, scared due to your behavior. “You’re hyperventilating- breathe for me-” The tears choke up your airway and you feel your consciousness slip. Jungwon’s panicked voice is the last thing you hear before the darkness engulfs you.
“Stop it, angel! My sides hurt!” Riki’s laughter cuts through the gloomy fog and you find yourself smiling. Your phone is propped in your hands, in which a video plays - 19 year old you tickling Riki in your then apartment. Sunoo’s laughter bubbles out from behind the camera, and you yell at him to take a picture of Riki’s red face. The video ends, and only then do you feel hot tears streaming down your face. When did you start crying?
“You were so ticklish.” You swipe off the dust that’s been collecting on the grey rock, and wipe the plating clean.
‘IN LOVING MEMORY
Nishimura Riki
2005-2032
Here lies the body of a brilliant pilot, caring son, kind friend, and loving husband.’
It reads.
Your hand moves to remove the wilted flowers off the gravestone and replace them with the fresh lilies you had bought on the way. The white lilies bring color to the depressing atmosphere and a watery sigh slips past you. “Work was hard today, Jason spilled coffee all over Miyeong’s dress and she cried.”
Some might think you’re crazy for talking to yourself. The residents living around the graveyard have been seeing you come to talk to the air for the past 4 years now - always showing up at 17:30. Exact.
“Bisco misses you. He keeps sleeping with your aviator cap. Its kinda filthy now because of his drool and chewing.” You shift. “But whenever I try to take it away he growls at me.” A laugh slips through, and then- softer, “I miss you too…everyday. Especially when I see those plastic flowers in my vase. I wont say its easy to act normal, but I manage.” You purse your lips, restraining yourself from crying as you attempt to joke, “I'm still waiting for those lilies you promised, by the way.”
The wind blows in your face, messing up your neatly done hairstyle. Its like Riki hears you- because a single lily rolls from the grave and into your lap. Your eyes widen at the flower and a small sob makes it way up your throat. “For me?” The wind whistles again- as if answering for Riki.
A watery smile creeps up your face as you will yourself not to break down. The deliberate honk of a car in the distance snaps you out of your emotions, and you whip your head around briefly, before turning back to stare at the tomb in front of you.
“I should go. Jungwon and his wife have to get to little Mirae’s recital. She’s going to be performing solo, and Jungwon will have me by the throat if we’re even a second late.”
You look into your lap again, gently twisting the flower between your fingers. “I….might visit a bit less now. Heeseung says I should cope with other ways.” A pause, and your gaze flicks up. “You wont be too mad, right? I’ll come…just once a week maybe.”
You stand up when the second honk echoes, this time louder. “See you then.” A hand reaches out to pick up your bag- the other one tightly secured around the stem of the lily- and you glance at the gravestone one last time.
“I love you, Riki.”
Taglist: @momnjam @yandere-stories @starmoonlia
*All writing belongs to @cinnamxncrunch. Please do not plagiarize, translate, copy or feed to ai.*
I THINK IM GONNA DIE IN THIS HOUSE (LITERALLY) SMAU
Synopsis (SMAU): There's no harm in forcing your friends to a haunted house for a party- at least there's free food! Also, it's totally normal to get bit by a vampire dressed theme worker, right?....Right?
Warnings: Cursing, Slight bullying(all fun and games), Crack, Fluff, Mentions of biting, Reader having absolutely no survival instincts(help)
Pairings: Fem!Reader x OT7!Enhypen
Pls comment if you'd like to be added to the taglist!
I THINK IM GONNA DIE IN THIS HOUSE (LITERALLY) SMAU
Synopsis (SMAU): There's no harm in forcing your friends to a haunted house for a party- at least there's free food! Also, it's totally normal to get bit by a vampire dressed theme worker, right?....Right?
Warnings: Cursing, Slight bullying(all fun and games), Crack, Fluff, Mentions of biting, Reader having absolutely no survival instincts(help)
Pairings: Fem!Reader x OT7!Enhypen
Pls comment if you'd like to be added to the taglist!
જ⁀➴ In which fate clearly has other plans for them. pt 3!
masterlist!
part 1!
part 2! (written + texts)
part 3! (written + texts)
part 4 (coming soon!)
The message comes in earlier than you expected.
im outside
You stare at your phone for a second longer than necessary, like it made you mad
“well i guess here goes nothing,” you mutter, grabbing your jacket.
You weren’t nervous. You refuse to be nervous.
You check yourself in the mirror anyway. Just once, then twice. You practically manipulate yourself into thinking you weren’t attracted to him.
“man...” you mumble, before turning away like you didn’t just do that.
Outside, his car is parked a little off to the side, engine still running. He’s leaning back in the driver’s seat, one hand on the wheel, the other tapping lightly against it like he’s trying to stay calm.
He looks up the second you step out, he freezes.
You stop in front of the car, trying to act unimpressed.
“…open the door,” you say.
He snaps out of it immediately.
“right yeah- sorry,” he says, quickly unlocking it.
You slide into the passenger seat, closing the door like you belong there.
He’s still looking at you.
“so..?” you say.
“sorry,” he says again, starting the car a little too fast.
You glance at him.
“why do you say sorry so much?”
“I don’t t,” he
“I’m just nervous”
“its not like im gonna kill you or anything...”
“i wouldn’t mind”
"just drive bro"
He exhales, running a hand through his hair.
“…okay, fine”
“You’re embarrassing,” you say.
“maybe, you still want me right?” he mutters.
You look out the window so he doesn’t see the way your lips almost move.
He keeps glancing at you at red lights like he’s making sure you’re still there. You notice every single time and ignore it every single time.
“dude stop staring,” you say without looking at him.
“I’m driving,” he replies.
“You’re staring.”
“…a little.”
“focus on the road.”
“Yes ma’am.”
You roll your eyes.
“Don’t nt say sorry again.”
“…i’m working on it.”
You huff softly, leaning back in your seat.
“…you’re actually a kinda hilarious”
“still got a pretty girl in my car.”
You pause.
“…don’t get so ahead of yourself.”
“too late.”
The restaurant is… quiet nice.
Not flashy, not too fancy, just warm lighting, the kind of place that feels close to your heart.
You step out of the car, adjusting your sleeve slightly.
He walks around to your side, hesitating for a second like he’s debating something, then just opens the door for you.
You blink.
“thank you...”
“I am supposed to.”
He still lets you walk in first.
You don’t comment on it.
You expected awkward pauses, forced conversation, him saying something stupid every five seconds but instead, it flows naturally, like you’ve known him for long
“You talk a lot, its cute” you say at one point, resting your chin lightly against your hand.
“You don’t talk enough, its scary.. not gonna lie you scare me.” he replies.
“I talk when I need to.”
“So never?”
You look at him.
“…watch it.”
He smiles.
“see? you’re talking. But its scary.”
You roll your eyes.
“…you’re so annoying.”
“You keep saying that.”
“because it’s true.”
“And yet you’re still here.”
You pause, looking at him.
“…don’t get ahead of yourself.”
“too late.”
You check your phone at some point.
“…it’s been an hour,” you say.
He looks at you.
“So leave.”
You meet his gaze.
“…no. you’re free entertainment”
His lips twitch slightly.
“thought so.”
“…don’t say that like you knew.”
“I did.”
You shake your head.
“…you’re actually so full of yourself.”
“only a little.”
“too much.”
When he drives you back, the car feels quieter than before.
You don’t say much. Neither does he.
But neither of you rush it either.
When the car stops in front of your place, the engine stays running for a second longer than necessary.
“This is me,” you say.
“Yeah.”
Neither of you move.
Of course.
You turn slightly toward him, arms crossing loosely.
“Well,” you say. “that wasn’t terrible.”
He lets out a small breath.
“not terrible?”
“don’t get used to compliments.”
“I’ll take it.”
A pause.
You look at him properly this time.
He looks… calmer. Still him. Still slightly awkward.
But softer.
“You didn’t mess it up,” you add.
“I was trying not to.”
“I could tell.”
The space inside the car feels smaller now.
Closer.
He hesitates you can see it in the way his hand tightens slightly on the steering wheel before letting go.
“…just say it,” you mutter.
He glances at you.
“What?”
“whatever you’re thinking.”
He exhales softly, running a hand through his hair.
“…can I kiss you?”
You stare at him.
For a second, you don’t answer.
“…you ask too many questions,” you say.
“That’s not a no.”
“It’s not a yes either.”
“…you’re difficult.”
“And yet.”
You don’t open the door. You don’t move away.
He leans in slowly, carefully.
Like he’s giving you time to change your mind.
You don’t.
His lips brush yours soft, hesitant, like he’s waiting.
For a second, you stay still.
Then your hand comes up, gripping his jacket lightly, pulling just enough to close the distance.
The kiss deepens slightly not rushed, just warm, steady and sweet.
His hand hovers near yours before settling gently, like he doesn’t want to push too far.
When you pull back, it’s slow.
Quiet.
“You’re still annoying,” you say softly.
He lets out a small breath.
“yeah?”
“yeah, but you’re cute as hell. I wanna eat you”
“no ones stopping you.” he chuckled out.
“shut up.”
You open the door this time.
“try not to miss me too much cutie.” you say, stepping out.
“I’ll try.”
You shut the door and walk inside without looking back.
He stays there for a second.
Then another.
Then leans back in his seat, letting out a quiet laugh to himself.
Synopsis: Lilies are something Riki shows up with every week - may it be through school, college or even marriage. One day he brings home plastic ones, joking about how the real ones withering makes him upset. He promises to bring you fresh flowers after his flight next week - so why is the vase still sitting with the dusty unscented fake ones?
Pairings: Commercial pilot!N.Riki x Wife!Reader
Theme: Doomed lovers, Slow burn(kinda), friends to lovers, various settings and timelines (they grow up together), They're so in love lol, Ft. Heeseung, Sunoo and Jungwon, (One skz meme reference)
Warnings: Fluff, Slight suggestiveness, Angst, No comfort, Major character death, Hints of depression at the end
Word Count: 12.7k
Mikki's Note: Helloo!! This is my first ever fic and I'm quite nervous about it, but writing this was so fun! Honestly i didn't know if i should write angst for my first post but I've had this idea forever lololl... i really hope you guys like it! Also, english isn't my first language so please excuse any grammatical errors. Comments, likes and reblogs are much much appreciated! Enjoy <333
The album flips to a picture of you and Riki in your senior year of high school - capturing your very first kiss.
You’d known Riki since you were 14 - curious eyes peering at the new student who had transferred from Japan. He was quite a bubbly child back then, always participating in the latest dance competitions and cracking jokes amidst a serious classroom.
You and him weren't really meant to cross paths, not with him being so bright and social, and you - reserved and opting to maintain your peace. You’d thought he would be like every other boy you admired - keeping distance, sending a polite smile or two. But that all changed on a random Tuesday.
Laughter bubbles in your throat at the memory as you unconsciously rotate the beautiful engagement ring on your finger, heart swelling up with love, the same way it did all those years ago. If it weren't for him, you don’t think you would've ever made the efforts to even interact with the boy.
“.…Is that The Girl in the Glass Case?” the voice snaps you out of your dazed peace and the chair beside you screeches before a figure drops into it. Nishimura Riki - one of the popular kids from the school’s dance crew. You pause your finger flipping the page and crane your neck to stare at him, his sudden presence catching you off guard. “Uh…yea.”
He hums. Why is he even here? Let alone speaking to you? Do you have something on your face? He’s been staring for too long-
“You’re in my class right? Third row last seat?” Your mouth opens and closes like a fish, brain working too fast. A very stiff nod seemingly satisfies him, and he shifts his focus onto the book again.
“Its an interesting book. Do you like thrillers?” Honestly, you don’t know what prompted this. Its not like you are friends, but the way he’s so casually attempting a conversation - limbs relaxed and eyes trailed on the spine of the book - makes you quirk your lips up. “Quite a lot, actually.”
The two of you fall into easy conversation after that, save for the initial awkwardness. You barely spend an hour together before he announces that he has to leave, but the short period of time changes your perspective about him. Hes very different than what you'd thought to be.
"Don’t you have Biology class now? Come, I’ll walk you.” He slings his bag onto his shoulder and pushes the chair back. Stuffing your material into your bag, you imitate his actions before passing him a small smile. “Lets go.”
Interactions are limited to polite smiles and casual conversations about the class and your respective well being after that - and even if one may think that this is quite normal, it’s the start of a new acquaintanceship for you. You aren't one to interact with his group like the other kids of your class - not because they're rude or arrogant - no. But mostly because you shy away from the attention.
This limits your conversations with him, but you always find each other passing small smiles or chipping in points to each other’s ideas during group discussions. You're content with this easy atmosphere between the two of you, not really expecting much association with him individually after the library incident. Oh, if only you knew how much of your thoughts and space the Japanese boy would take up in the future.
𓈒⠀𓂃⠀⠀˖⠀𓇬⠀˖⠀⠀𓂃⠀𓈒
The music bleeds through the hallways, filling the empty space with the sounds of violin and piano. You're just about wrapping up with your club agenda for next week, rubbing a hand across your face to wipe away some of the tiredness seeping through your bones.
Being the president of the literary club demands dedication, effort and time. More so of the latter. And so you find yourself sitting in the vacant club room - long after the school hours have ended and the hallways gone quiet - trying to jot down points for the next activity.
You slump in your chair after some futile efforts, opting against finishing the agenda and rather having half the mind to dash home and binge watch the entire season of Two Broke Girls again. But one thing about you is that you’re awfully adamant on finishing whatever you start. Its something that has caused you to often neglect your health many a time.
Just as you pick up your pen, your hear the violin again, and your brows furrow. The schools good as empty now, save for some of the cleaning staff….so where’s the sound coming from? The hasty writing of yours stares back at you, as if trying to get you to finish it fast.
The chair ultimately screeches back, and you get up, closing the book. A small break wont hurt, right? Your feet drag you out of the room and into the hall, the music getting louder. The closer you walk to the dance room, the more it amplifies. You come to a halt right in front of the dark blue door, which guards the source of the melody gracing your ears.
The pads of your fingertips connect to the cool metal of the handle and you hesitate just for a beat, before slowly cracking the door open. You immediately spot a figure inside - a boy, and your first thought is to close the door and go about your work again. You wouldn’t want to intrude.
But before your brain can even catch up with you, his head snaps towards the door and he freezes mid step. Staring right back at you with surprise gleaming in his eyes, is Riki. You’re already moving to close the door before he can process the situation. “I am so sorry, I didn’t know you were in here and I swear I didn’t mean to disturb your routine, its just I thought someone left the player on again and-”
“Stay.” His voice cuts smoothly through your rambling and you freeze, hand still on the handle - and the thin line of sweat forming on it. “I mean, I don’t mind if you stay.” He adds on quickly after taking in your response. You debate it for a second, but the way hes looking at you so expectantly makes you step inside and shut the door.
He passes you a small smile before wordlessly restarting his routine again and you cozy yourself in the corner of the room, body slumped against the wall. Your eyes follow his movements in the mirror, watching how he moves so gracefully - as if he doesn’t have to take any efforts to execute the dance.
His eyes lock with yours briefly and you look away, embarrassed for being caught. He probably thinks you're weird and creepy now-
But he smiles. You don’t catch it of course, too busy over-thinking and fiddling with your necklace to notice.
Cute.
Riki drops beside you after his routine ends, a bit too close for someone who you strongly consider an acquaintance at best. “What are you doing here?” He runs a hand through his sweaty hair and chugs his water down, eyeing you curiously.
You look at him confused. “Oh sorry. I meant to ask what you were doing in school this late. It’s almost 5PM.”
“Club work.” You sigh, resting your cheek on your knees pulled close. “I have to finish planning activities for next week. Miss Kim wants us to host an event to convince other people to join.” He listens to you speak and wonders if its possible for someone to be so soft spoken.
A comfortable silence settles between the two of you then, the occasional honk of a car in the distance the only sound disrupting it. He mirrors your position after a while, beady eyes poring into you.
“Can I ask you something?” A hum vibrates in your chest. “Yes?”
“Do you want to do this often? I mean- hang out. I want to get to know you. Not just the classmate version of you.”
You fall silent for a beat. “…why?” you barely whisper. “Why would you want to know me? I'm not…. that interesting.”
“I think I’ll be the judge of that, don’t you think?” He smiles then, and you think your heart stops for a second. Your lips quirk up slowly, a small, genuine smile lighting your face up. It’s a small gesture, honestly. But for Riki - oh -he feels like he’s achieved something better than winning a dance competition.
𓈒⠀𓂃⠀⠀˖⠀𓇬⠀˖⠀⠀𓂃⠀𓈒
The meet-ups slowly become routine for the two of you. He always finds you sitting in the corner of the library, tucked away and reading to pass time. Everyday, he shows up and stays hours upon hours, sometimes telling you about his dance crew, sometimes discussing the books you’ve read.
On some slow days, you visit him in the dance room, watching him move across the floor with admiration and respect in your eyes. You sit and chat until the red hues of the horizon bleed into the sky after his routines, occasionally accompanying a small snack box with you which he wholeheartedly accepts.
By the time sophomore year rolls in, you’ve grown inseparable. Hanging out with Riki changes you quite a bit, your reserved persona blossoming into a more carefree and social one.
Your friends notice the change. They whisper about how he’s different with you - always leaving little notes and candies on your desk, but you brush it off as an act of kindness, convincing both yourself and your girls that Riki’s just thoughtful like that.
Hes nice, polite even. He cares for everyone, yes. But he doesn’t stay at school late until only the whispers of the wind echo the building - waiting for his friends to finish council duties. Only for you though, he does.
Its safe to say that his lighthearted humor; his habit of always caring, and that soft smile is a bit too much for your fifteen year old self, and you find yourself falling for him, gradually but surely.
As always, you're heading back to class, filling the air with discussions of exams and plans for the weekend, when you spot something that grasps both your attention and your breath. “Aren’t they so pretty?” Your finger is pointed towards a beautiful bloomed pink lily which sits in the soil beside the sidewalk.
Riki’s chatter dies down and he observes how your face lights up at the flower, like its existence is enough to brighten your day. “Do you like lilies?” He asks, moving forward to pluck it for you. The gasp you let out is part shock part happiness. “Yes, very much.” And the pure awe that gleams in your eyes while you gently wrap your fingers around the stem makes Riki decide then and there, that this wont be the last time you receive them.
He shows up at your doorstep on the last day of senior year as always, and in his hand, with no doubt - is a bouquet of meticulously arranged white and pink spider lilies. You crack a grin, gratefully accepting the flowers and replacing them with the old ones in your vase - which you'd invested in last year after Riki made it clear that the lilies were going to be a recurring occurrence.
”Final day of the last year of school, how we feeling?” The door clicks shut behind you and he reaches a hand out to ruffle your hair, causing you to swat his hand away. “I don’t know, I’m really glad we don’t have to deal with Mr. Choi and his 10 page essays, but I think I’ll really miss this. Like….everything.”
”Speak for yourself angel, I'm so glad I’m leaving this stupid institution.” You frown at that, kicking a pebble as you walk beside him. “You wont even miss the dance crew?” You can practically see the gears in his brain shifting before he sends a lazy grin your way. “Ill miss you more than anything.” Your eyes roll and you playfully shove him, ignoring the way your heart stutters at his words.
“Okay, wrap it up.” He chuckles at your response, pulling you closer to him by the hem of your blazer. “C’mon angel, you know I jest.” The walk to school is peaceful, the air around your filling with mindless conversations. “What are you doing after school today?” His voice is hushed, hesitant.
“Why?”
“I wanna show you something.” His fingers card through his hair, brushing the stray strands out of his eyes. A brow quirks up and you pass him a not so amused look. “Yea, the last time you said that I almost threw up crying from that blasphemous haunted house.” He offers you a sheepish - slightly regretful smile at that, lips turning up into a barely there pout.
He always got like this whenever he wanted something out of you, and knowing him, there was a near definite chance that he’d get it. “Please, angel? I promise its nothing like that this time. You'll really like it, trust me.” With a skeptic click of your tongue and a barely convinced sigh, you decide to indulge in him this once. “Fine.”
.
.
.
“I’m scared and I’m too young to die Nishimura.” You call out from below. He laughs. He laughs. Nothing about this situation was funny considering his idea of “fun” was risking your life to stare at the evening city skyline.
You’d found Riki in the middle of shirt signing, right after your last class. He’d spotted you almost immediately, and had excused himself with a boyish grin. “Lets go. Are you excited?” He’d tugged onto your hand and pulled you up towards the stairwell. “Gee, sure I am.” You had replied, though your tone was anything but, more so laced with uncertainty and a hint of sarcasm.
Now you stand on the balcony of your school, staring at him climbing a ladder that leads to the water tanks almost 5 feet above the initial ground. “Get down, im not gonna get up there.” He passes you a conspiratory smile and you shake your head, taking three steps back with slightly nervous scoff.
“Nope. No. I’m gonna leave-” Before you can even blink he jumps down from the ladder and grabs your arm, pulling you towards the metal piping. “Stop being such a debby downer, you’ll be fine.” You let out a more offended scoff at that. Debby downer? This was your safety we’re talking about. What if you fall- or worse- die?!
Okay. maybe you were being a littleee dramatic. But can you blame a girl? The last time he’d said these words you’d almost spiraled into thinking a seven foot tall talking mummy with a machete was going to manifest in the middle of the room. Oh, you hated those god forsaken haunted houses.
“Breathe, angel. I wont let you fall.” His voice interrupts your unpleasant flashback and you frown at him. “Fine, but im gonna haunt you for life if I do.” He shakes his head with an amused laugh and lets you climb the ladder first. Just as you reach the top, you let out a small sigh and brush your hands to get off any dust.
He follows right after, hoisting both your bags on the wall, swinging his legs over the ledge, and pulling you to sit down beside him. You gasp at the view you’d been ignoring due to nerves and the sight mesmerizes you.
The city sky line stretches out for as long as your eye can see, and the sky looks like a canvas, all reds and yellows and oranges mixing in together. You cant see where it ends and where the towers start - the entire image overwhelming you in the greatest way. Below you, far in the distance, you spot the cars and people dashing towards wherever they have to be, and you realize - really, how small the world can be from up here.
“Do you like it?” You don’t look at him, only nod. “Yea.” He smiles, long fingers slowly reaching out to yours. He entwines them and quietly drops your hands in his lap, turning his head to stare at your side. Riki doesn’t think he’s seen anything more stunning in his entire life.“Has my whole heart.” He whispers. You still think hes referring to scenery and hum, a wide smile spreading across your face. “I can see why.”
But when you look at him, he’s not looking forward. Instead, his eyes are fixated on you. “I…..want to talk to you.” You squeeze your hand in his, encouraging him with a playful smile. “You’re talking right now.” A chuckle rumbles in his chest and he scoots closer. He shifts his focus on the horizon now, voice low and calm, like he has all the time in the world.
“Remember that time when I bruised my jaw during basketball season?”
“The fist fight back in grade 10?”
“Yea.” He smiles lightly. “You had walked all across the court and lectured me in front of my team.” You furrow your brows. “Why are you bringing that up-”
“Let me finish.” His thumb traces light patterns over your hand. “I was kind of pissed in the moment I’m not gonna lie. But then after the game you cleaned my wounds, and I saw those tears in your eyes.” A pause. “No one had worried for me like you do, and my heart broke a little watching you fuss over my stupidity.” There’s silence for a beat, and his gaze drops to your tangled fingers. “I think that’s when I decided I cant let you go. Ever.”
Your breath catches in your throat at the implication. “What do you mean-”
“I love you.” The three words ring out in the silent air and your heart nearly explodes. He’s looking at you now, staring as if he’s trying to memorize every line on your face.
You don’t know what to say, brain scrambling to process everything. “You….” The door to the balcony bursts open and you hear the voices of your friends calling out to you, but you’ve already tuned everything out.
His eyes drops to your lips and his free hand brushes the strand of hair off your cheek. “I do.” His voice has dropped to a whisper and you here another incoherent yell from one of his friends this time. “May I?” Your head moves on your own, nodding only once.
He closes the gap between you and presses his lips onto yours, pausing to make sure you’re really okay with this. You move then, softly capturing his own into your mouth. Sweet. He tastes so sweet. You think.
Your eyes shut close and he pulls you impossibly closer with the hand tangled in his lap and you melt into his touch. His thumb grazes your cheek softly, head tilted for better access.
Click!
The sounds of a camera shutter goes off and your senses finally take in the excited cheering of your friends from below. You break the kiss slowly, unwilling to open your eyes just in case you’re dreaming - but the firm squeeze of his hand confirms that this is very much real. A small but genuine giggle slips past you as you take him in - his face glowing in the dusk, a wide grin decorating his face. His eyes are upturned into soft crescents. “I love you too” You whisper loud enough for him to hear.
Jungwon - a mutual friend- has already climbed up the ladder by now, and he announces his arrival pretty loudly. “Ohmygod finally!” The small bubble you and Riki had formed breaks, and the two of you swing your legs over the ledge and get up, greeting the older boy.
“Thanks a lot hyung. We were kind of having a moment here.” Riki’s voice bleeds out with disapproval and slight annoyance, only gaining a loud laugh from the latter. You notice him waving the camera in his right hand dramatically. Ah, so he clicked the picture.
With barely contained excitement, he shoves the camera in your face- very proudly showing you the picture he took. “Don’t you look so adorable? Took the two of you long enough.”
The film captures a still image of you and Riki with your lips locked. The golden-orange light of the setting sun reflects on your faces and you notice how both of you are smiling mid kiss. You crane your neck to look at him, only to find that his focus is already on you. And then he gives you that boyish smile you’ve come to adore over the years. Its perfect.
This is perfect.
You hadn't imagined this for your last ever day of high school, but you were sure you’d cherish it the most.
Later that evening, Riki comes by with a bouquet red lilies, different to the pink ones you’re so used to seeing. He asks you to be his girlfriend, handing the arrangement to you. The confusion on your gleeful face doesn’t go unnoticed by him. You place the flowers in your familiar vase and jump into his embrace, agreeing to his wish and kissing his cheek.
“Red lilies symbolize love, angel.” The two of you are tangled on your couch, replaying Frozen for the umpteenth time. You tilt your head backwards from your position in between his legs and hum.
“What?” He looks down at you from behind, a soft smile playing on his lips. “I got you red ones instead of pink because red symbolizes love. It represents passion.” You always knew that Riki was thoughtful, but this- oh this - it showed that he cares.
His silent actions make you want to say so much - to express how grateful you are for everything, but you opt for a more hushed, quieter gesture. “Thank you.” You shift in his embrace, movie temporarily forgotten.
”For the flowers?”
“No. For being there for me. For loving me.” And the way he looks down at you with such pure and unfiltered affection confirms the one thought in your head.
It will always be him.
“You're single handedly keeping the floral boutique business running.” A light chuckle slips past your lips as you refill the water in the vessel. He grins, leaning against your doorway. “They should pin me as their star customer if you ask me.” You straighten the petals of the fresh bouquet you placed inside the vase, an assortment of pinks and reds adding decor to your living room.
”You spend too much on them Riki! I cant possibly allow you to invest so much on flowers that eventually wither.” Its like scolding a child, really. He’s awfully stubborn when it comes to this. Don’t get me wrong now, you’ve had this conversation with him far too many times since high school, but he insists on getting them every single time, no matter how expensive.
Two strong hands wrap around your waist from behind and you feel his hair nuzzle your jaw. His head drops to your shoulder, lips pressing to your skin. “Hmmm….at least my love for you will never wither.” His hum rings in his throat, sending tiny vibrations down your spine. “You’re so cheesy Nishimura.”
”You love it angel.” A laugh slips through your lips and you hum, spinning around in his grasp and kissing his jaw. Because you do. You really really do love it.“You shouldn’t be here. Don’t you have class?” Your fingers reach up to fix his hair, which he’d recently dyed blonde as per your request.
After high school, the two of you had mentally prepared yourselves for a long distance relationship, knowing that your dreams laid on different paths.
But fortunately, Jungwon - who was also in your college - had somehow convinced Riki’s parents to let him stay rather than shift back to Japan. And so his nineteen year old self stood here currently with you captured in his arms, grinning up at him.
“Who cares about class?” A small smack lands on his chest and he winces. “Your GPA. The dream job you want. Miss Choi who keeps tormenting poor Heeseung over you.”
His eyes roll at your words, mumbling out in a very bored tone, “Yea well he deserves it- ow! Stop hitting me!” Another firm smack lands on his chest- except this time, harder. “He was trying to find you all over campus last week. Did you tell him you were at the studio?” A sheepish smile colors his face. “…Maybe?” You glare at him, thinking of a way to get him to seriously attend his class. “Okay but I genuinely was going to go to fix my new dance routine…”
“And then..?” You pry, voice already knowing. “…And then I kinda got distracted and ended up in your apartment…but only because I missed you!” He adds on quickly.
You click your tongue, and untangle yourself from his grasp, worried for the boy. There’s no way he can keep this up, for both your and his sake. Maybe Heeseung’s too. “Yea right. You cant keep using that excuse every time to woo your way out. Get to class, now.” Hes already being pushed out your door. “But-”
“Out, now.”
He gives up and lets you shove him outside, eyeing you warily. “Okay but my kiss-”
Slam!
The door shuts in his face, and he can hear your voice muffled through the other side. “Attend all your classes for a week and you’ll get it.”
You hear him sigh outside your door and the sounds of footsteps retreating. Riki could be so difficult when he wanted to, but you liked his quiet stubbornness sometime. It gave you some entertainment.
With a final shake of your head at the door, you retreat back to your room to finish the ongoing assignment you had been writing before he showed up. You silently thank the gods that it’s Thursday, which meant you had a free schedule for the entire day.
.
.
.
After 4 hours of cramming your back in a preposterous position in a hard wooden chair - which you were sure you’d regret later on- you allow the pen to slip from your fingers, eyes trailing to the digital clock on your desk. It reads 18.45. Had you really been writing for that long?
Fingers flexing, you only then register how much your knuckles hurt from staying bent for so long. The chair screeches backwards and you stand, stretching your body. Time for a break. Your feet pad through the quiet atmosphere and lead you towards the kitchen.
You swing your pantry door open, eyes raking over the snacks that you have. Where’s the cheese ramen? Cookies…..muffins….doritos…what the hell. You double check, and then triple check just for sure, eyebrows furrowing in slight frustrated confusion. Did Heeseung finish all of them? You had 4 packs. Oh, when you get your hands on that devil-
Ring!
The doorbell interrupts your grand scheme of revenge (Filling Heeseung’s bed with plastic cockroaches) and you grumble, mildly irritated. You trudge to the hall and roll your eyes when the ringing continues impatiently. “Oh my god, I’m coming! Jeez!” The door swings open and before you can even blink, a series of people - boys, specifically- shove their way inside your living space.
A paw to your foot snaps you out of your initial daze and you almost instantly smile, picking the little white furball up. “Maeum, my baby!” He licks your face eagerly as you coddle him, squishing him against your cheek.
“I would appreciate some of that treatment too.” Your focus finally shifts to the 4 boys sprawled out on your couch as if they own it, eyes locking with Riki who is currently glaring at the canine. “Everyone except Sunoo is free to leave by the way.”
A collective gasp echoes in the air at your words with the sole exception of Sunoo - who looks awfully delighted. “I told you she likes me the most.” Maeum jumps out of your arms and settles down in Jungwon’s lap - who is currently busy trying swat Heeseung for pinching him. You sigh and shut the door which had been open and make your way towards the couch.
With a pout, Riki pulls you next to him beside Heeseung almost immediately and you frown. “Did you attend all your classes?” He nods. “All of them?” You ask again, looking at Heeseung for confirmation who only nods.
Riki points at his lips and taps, pulling you closer to him with a hand on your wrist. A whisper of disbelief leaves your mouth, “You cant be real.” The plush of your lips connects with his and you offer him a small kiss. “EW. No PDA please.” You break away from him and stare at Heeseung incredulously. “This is my apartment which you sabotaged, mind you.”
He shifts farther away from you as to make a point and his face contorts into one of fake disgust. You squint your eyes, the dull ache of hunger in your stomach reminding you of the ramen stealing culprit. “So….” You start, and the attention shifts all on you. “I had 4 ramen packs stocked just last week….” Your eyes rake around the room casually, before stopping on Heeseung’s already guilty face. “I open my pantry today and all of them are gone!”
“What the fuck, I knew leprechauns were real.” All of you collectively shift your heads to stare at Jungwon and he only shrugs. “I hate those tiny green menaces.”
“No way Jungwon has made it this far in life.” Sunoo’s shock makes you crack up slightly, but you quickly regain composure, eyes pinning Heeseung down again. “Anyways, pray tell me Heeseung, do you know what happened to my Buldak?”
He slowly stands up from the couch and retreats to fiddle with his bag. His fingers fish for his wallet and he makes his way to the door. “I’ll buy you 7 packets as compensation.”
“So you admit eating all of them, you bigback!” You yell as he darts out the door, one shoelace still untied. “Im buying you more though woman!” He yells back and you scoff at his audacity. There’s no way this guy is four years older than you.
Maeum settles in your lap and Jungwon lets out a sound of betrayal before making space for Sunoo to sit comfortably. You absentmindedly pet the pup in your arms and lean into Riki’s shoulder. “Im so tired and bored.” He lodges his arm above you on the back rest, pulling you in closer. “By staying at home the whole day?”
He snickers at the glare you send him, pecking your forehead. “You know I jest, angel.” You sigh, briefly closing your eyes. “I’ve been writing that stupid assignment the whole day.”
“What assignment?” You lift your head up from his shoulder and snap your neck to Sunoo, who’s also in your major. “The one on romantic and victorian literature.” If Sunoo could turn any paler, he does in the moment. You sit up straighter at his reaction, disbelief plastered on your face. “Its literally 45% of our grade!”
The phone lodged in his hands drops and he stands up, pacing your living. “When was this announced? I didn’t know this! When is it due?” Maeum seems to notice the shift in atmosphere and lazily picks his head up before dropping it in your lap again. “Literally last week. Don’t worry though, you still have around 4 days to finish it.” You pause, and he shoots you a slightly uneasy look. “I sense a but.”
“Butt, lol.” Sunoo almost chucks his phone at Riki but restrains himself from getting tangled in a half murder case. “But…it has to be at least 25 pages long.” Even Jungwon gasps at this, momentarily distracted from whatever game he had been playing on his phone.
“25 pages?!” Sunoo almost falls to his knees in the middle of your apartment and Riki, as always, thinks this is hilarious. “Better get to writing, hyung.” The former snaps at him harshly, barely even letting him complete his sentence. “I don’t wanna hear anything from the dude who keeps skipping classes.” Riki’s laughter immediately ceases right when the doorbell rings and you get up to open the door.
Heeseung’s face twists into one of confusion at the sight of the brunette sulking on your carpet. “I literally only left for 15 minutes.” He kicks his shoes off and places the two heavy plastic bags he’d been carrying on the coffee table.
“He’s throwing a tantrum, don’t worry about it.” Riki cuts through, sending Sunoo a menacing smile, to which the latter only signs him the knife to throat gesture, sliding his thumb across his neck to mimic a slicing motion - a silent threat. “Count your days Nishimura Riki. You will go bald and your girlfriend will leave you.” Riki sticks his tongue out at the older, only trying to provoke him more.
“Eugh, mint chocolate icecream.” Jungwon - who had been quick to inspect the plastic bags - remarks whilst pulling out a tub of ice cream. That catches both your and Sunoo’s attention, and the boy completely forgets his previous conversation, sitting up straight at the words ‘mint’ and ‘icecream’
“I figured we should just have group dinner since its pretty late and we’re all here.” Heeseung sits beside Sunoo on the carpet and you retreat to the kitchen to put the sweet in the freezer and grab some plates. By the time you come back, the other two boys have also made themselves comfortable on the carpet, huddling around the parcel of takeout. Maeum claims the sofa to himself and decides to sleep peacefully.
You set the dishes down on the table and settle in between Jungwon and Heeseung. The younger reaches for his bag and tries to find something whilst the rest of you plate dinner.
“Hey guys!” You all look at him waving a deck of UNO cards in his hand, a devilish smirk plastered on his face. “Wanna play UNO?”
𓈒⠀𓂃⠀⠀˖⠀𓇬⠀˖⠀⠀𓂃⠀𓈒
“Pick two more.” Sunoo smirks at Jungwon’s move as he places a yellow card down over his own. “Pick up four.” The laugh that Jungwon lets out almost scares you out of your skin. “pick up EIGHT!” The card slams down on your poor coffee table and you can only watch from where you’ve settled down on the sofa.
Three rounds into the game and Heeseung had decided to leave, announcing that his girlfriend needed help with her project. The remaining four of you only knew those were excuses to get out of the never-ending card game but didn’t pry. Two more rounds later Riki had flipped the table and decided to ragequit. Eventually, you had gotten tired of his incessant pouting and huffing from beside you and decided to withdraw.
Now - almost one hour into the game - only Jungwon and Sunoo are left, and as much as you can make out, none of them are willing to back down. Sunoo reels back with giggles, slapping his lap as he plucks a card from the deck he’s holding, and Jungwon’s face instantly drains color.
“Pick up…..twelve.” Jungwon’s cards slam down and he stands up, pointing at the other. “That’s cheating!!” Sunoo’s rolling on the carpet at this point, cards long forgotten.
“Ohmygod you really thought you were gonna win, didn’t you?” - A gasp of air - “Ohmygod your face was pure gold” He cackles, and you almost feel bad for the younger boy.
Riki’s head shifts in your lap and he lets out a bored groan. “Its literally just a game hyung. Tone it down.” Both heads snap simultaneously towards him. “You flipped the fucking table!” A second groan slips out of him - turning sides and burying his face in the plush of your skin.
The next hour is just a bunch of yelling, blaming, and Sunoo ragebaiting Jungwon like he gets paid for it. With a heavy sigh, you shift Riki off your lap to break Jungwon apart from Sunoo - who is currently tackled to the ground. “Okay, its getting late you two.”Jungwon peels himself off first, rolling his eyes. “Whatever, I demand a rematch.”
Sunoo snickers, brushing his sweatshirt clean. “Sore loser.” You’re tugging Jungwon up and about towards the door before he turns even more red from Sunoo’s teasing, lightly scolding him to wear his shoes.
Riki sits up straighter now, shaking his head with disappointment. “Real mature guys.” He decides to finally help you kick the two out of your apartment, grabbing their bags and Sunoo’s arm before dragging him towards the door. “Let me have my girlfriend to myself. Goodnight.”
They can barely get a word in before the door closes on their faces. You let out a loud sigh, walking back to tidy your apartment. The two of you work silently for the next few minutes, finally dropping on the sofa after cleaning after your friends.
You hardly even get to adjust on the sofa before Riki’s pulling you up to your feet again, which you highly disapprove of. He tugs you to you door, and your brows furrow. “What? What now?”
“Just come.” He replies, putting his shoes on and grabbing your keys. The door locks after you pull it shut, following him into the lobby. He presses the elevator and nudges you inside, jabbing the button for the last floor. “Do you know someone up there or…” You trail off, slightly baffled.
A ding hums when you reach the last floor and the doors open. He laces your fingers with his and gently pulls you in the direction of the stairs leading to your building’s balcony.
Cool wind with the hint of something delicious wafting in the air graces you when he shoves the rackety door to the balcony open. You walk to the ledge, leaning over your elbows to admire the nightlife of your city.
The moon shines brightly tonight, and the late hour gives you a sense of peacefulness. Riki leans beside you, chin dropped in his palm. “The moon is beautiful, isnt it?” You shoot him an easy smile, sliding over closer to him. “It is.”
You needed this. After such a chaotic evening, you were ready to crash right into your bed, but this - being here with him - was much better.
“Look.” He quietly points to an aeroplane in the starry sky, a red light twinkling as it covers the expanse of black. “That’s gonna be me some day. Flying the plane, I mean.” You shift your focus onto his features; the way he looks so content and in awe whilst staring at the vehicle.
“And you'll be there with me.” He says, moving to look at you. You give him a confused smile, tilting your head. “I don’t think I should be flying planes, baby.” He pulls you in till your shoulders are bumped together, a firm hand on your waist as he stares back up at the now empty sky.
“No, of course not,” he chuckles, “But I want my world to be able to see the entire world I’ll travel with me.” And the way he says it makes you go weak in the knees. You kiss him then, under the stars, your own way of promising that no matter what, you’ll always be right by his side.
Flowers, as well as a hand clutching them invade your vision abruptly. “Boo!”
The sound breaks your train of memories and you flinch, the photo album dropping from your hands with a thud onto the tiled floor. Your head whips around from where you’re sat on the sofa and a squeal leaves your mouth.
Riki quickly places the flowers on the nearest surface, and catches you when you jump into his arms, spinning you around once before putting you down on your feet. “You’re back early! Weren't you landing tomorrow?” He places his aviator’s cap on your head, intentionally crooked. The fabric of his crisp uniform wrinkles lightly when his arms flex to wrap around your waist, securing you to his chest. “Mmm, surprise.” He hums out, his voice rumbling deeply in his chest.
The way you’re grinning hurts your cheeks, as you wrap your own arms around his neck, pulling him in for a kiss. Your lips move against his and he shifts, inhaling deeply. “I missed you so much..” He murmurs, hands running up and down your waist as he captures your lips once again.
You giggle, fingers carding through his oreo locks as you pull away. “I missed you too baby.” He searches for your lips again, eyes hooded and expectant, but you pull back slightly and peck the corner of his mouth, deliberately missing his lips. “Slow down captain, you should get some rest first.”
He groans, seemingly had enough of your teasing before effortlessly throwing you onto his shoulder and making his way to your shared bedroom. You let out a surprised yelp- cap falling down- to which he responds with a playful spank to your ass.
“I haven't seen my wife in two weeks. I plan on ravishing her.” You squeal, hitting his back. “Riki!”
The door clicks shut behind you, and he places you onto your bed, smirking. “Nope. I can rest later.Right now I need to show you just how much I missed you.”
Rays of morning light filter through the sheer curtains, falling directly in your room and onto your bed. You groan and stir, the dull pain throbbing in you lower half serves as a reminder of your activities last night. He really hadn't been lying when he said he missed you.
A tiny yawn slips through your lips and your eyes barely crack open while you try to sit up straight, but a strong arm pulls you closer and a groan resonated from behind your back.
“Where are you going?” Riki’s voice gruffs out, still laced with sleep. He tightens his grip on your waist and snuggles his face into the space between your shoulder. “I have to freshen up, baby.” You coo out, mind replaying all the ways he took you apart a few hours ago when his bare thigh brushes against yours.
“Later. Sleep now.” He mumbles, half asleep. And you close your eyes once again, sighing in his touch.
A soft kiss to your neck wakes you up and your body rolls around to snuggle into a firm chest. Riki smiles, half conscious. His arms squeeze you tightly and he drops his head in your hair to inhale your scent. “Morning angel.”
You stir, grumbling out a small good morning back, but making no efforts to get up and start your day. Instead, your face presses into his skin and you hum in content, to which Riki lets out a small giggle, and decides to stay like this for a while.
Oh, how he missed you in his arms.
Late mornings with Riki were something you always looked forward to religiously, considering how less you saw him nowadays. He had been very serious about taking you everywhere with him, but 4 flights in and you had gotten immensely tired of the constant travel.
The two of you bought a small apartment then, in a peaceful neighborhood right after your marriage. It wasn’t big or grand, but it was home. “I want to spend my time with you in the quiet. The airport is loud enough for me.” He had said, and so you had picked a comfy 4 room apartment on the 12th floor, since Riki had always loved the thrill of being far above from the ground.
You had settled down as a high school teacher, part timing at a local animal shelter on the weekends. That’s where you had found Bisco, a cute chocolate colored pup who had stared up at you like you were meant to be.
This was the life you had always dreamed of - a nice home, a well paying job, a cute little canine, and Riki, always by your side. It couldn’t get any better than this, really.
𓈒⠀𓂃⠀⠀˖⠀𓇬⠀˖⠀⠀𓂃⠀𓈒
The scent of pancakes hits your senses as you step out of the bathroom, steam pouring out behind you. Water trickles down your neck and lightly drips onto your shirt from your freshly washed hair. You walk into the kitchen, humming at the delicious aroma. “I love it when you’re home, you know.”
Riki stands near the stove with a pair of sweatpants clinging to his waist and your pink apron tied around his bare upper half, ceremoniously flipping the pancakes with a spatula. “Why? Because you miss my beautiful face?”
You snort and hoist yourself up on the counter beside where he stands, observing the coffee he’s got brewing. “Nah, because I get princess treatment since you basically do all my work for me.” He frowns and pinches your thigh with his free hand. “My wife hates me and wants me to die. Am I nothing but a slave to you?”
You swat his arm away, rubbing your skin. “I can’t believe you're so dramatic. What will your colleagues say when they see their captain whining?” He plates the food and puts the pan in the sink, lodging himself between your thighs. Both his hands settle on either side of the counter and he leans, boxing you in.
“Nothing much for them left to say when they already know my gorgeous wife has me whipped.” He murmurs, leaving a wet trail of kisses along your neck and jaw. You laugh, throwing your head back. A hand slaps his shoulder as you weakly try to push him away. “Don’t start now, the pancakes are getting cold!”
He hums, continuing his ministrations. “The pancakes can wait. Just one kiss, please?” The plush of his lips connect to your shoulder and you shake your head. “We both know its more than just one kiss Nishimura. I'm still sore from last night.” He smirks at that, pulling back and raking his eyes over your body. “Ooh, you were so loud-”
“Shut up!” You swat his shoulder again, pushing him and sliding past his frame to the dining table. He follows right after you, plates in hand and laughter echoing the space. “What?” he draws out, “I'm just stating facts!”
With a huff, you seat yourself down across him, crossing your arms. “Oh yea? Well…” A bouquet of lilies sitting on the far end of the table catches your attention and you trail off, reaching over to inspect them.
They feel different at first touch, and on closer observation you realize that they aren't the soft, scented ones you’re so familiar with. You run your fingers along the pink petals, glancing at him. “These are fake.” It’s a statement, not a question.
He hums, swallowing the piece of pancake he was chewing and reaching over to his mug of coffee. “Astute observation miss english teacher.” You roll your eyes, mindlessly caressing the plastic softly. He grins when he sees that irritation on your face and silently laughs. “Oh c’mon, you know I jest, angel.”
His hand reaches out to yours from across the surface and he gently plays with your fingers, taking a sip of his coffee. “You know how I used to bring you flowers every week?” Your head snaps up to look at him.
“I used to do it so that the lilies in your vase never wither….but now with me in a different country almost every month, I don’t like coming back to the sad wilted ones.” His thumb traces patterns over your skin and you place the flowers down beside you, watching his lips upturn in a genuine smile. “So I thought I’d give you ones that will always stay fresh- well, not exactly…but they’ll never wither, no matter what.” Your heart tugs at his thoughtfulness and you quickly move to place them in your vase, discarding the wilted ones which had been sitting there for a little more than 2 weeks.
Riki smiles when you ruffle his hair whilst returning back to your seat. “Aww, that’s so sweet baby, thank you so much.” Bisco jumps into his lap and the two of you divert your attention to the little canine. He lets out a bark and licks Riki’s face as to make his presence known. “Bisco babyy! Did you miss dad?” The pup barks again at that and Riki lets out a laugh, snuggling him.
The morning passes in laughter and Bisco’s funny antics which make you chase him all around the house. By the time you plop down on the sofa, its already lunchtime. Riki sits beside you, laying his head in your lap and staring up at your face. You look down at him when you feel his stare, chuckling lightly. “What now?” Your fingers card through his hair as you reach for the remote to play a movie.
“Nothing, just looking.” You glance at him again, choosing to replay Frozen. “Why? You leaving soon?” It’s a joke, but he shifts his head in your lap and you look down at him, face contorting into slight disappointment.
“.…When’s your next flight?” His eyes trail towards the Disney logo playing on the screen, the animation distracting him from the ugly bubble forming in his chest. “In a week.”
You fall silent at that, and he notices the change in your demeanor. “How long will you be gone this time?” You absently run your fingers through his hair, tugging at his roots occasionally and he sighs- gaze fixated on your frown. “….maybe 3 weeks.” The corners of your mouth deepen further and it sends a pang through his chest.
A heavy silence settles between you after you only reply with a hum, choosing to avoid the conversation and watch Anna sing. But Riki’s mind is spiraling, and his heart feels heavy with guilt. He doesn’t want you to be upset like this. You startle when he abruptly sits up straight and tugs you to your feet, switching the TV off. “Okay, no.”
You let him drag you to your room, fishing through your closet for a new set of clothes. “What….are you doing?” He barely even glances at you as he hands you a cute summer dress you’re yet to wear and pushes you in the direction of the bathroom.
“Taking you out on a date.”
.
.
.
The rest of the week passes by in a blur, filled with constant dates and late night runs to the grocery store or ice cream shop - just because. After your impromptu lunch outing the other day, Riki makes it his one and only goal to spend as much time as he can with you - partly also to keep you occupied and distracted from the fact that he’s leaving so soon.
The two of you lie in your bed now, bodies tangled in a mess of sweat and sheets. Another thing Riki had been hell bent on proving was how much he loved you - and so almost every night, you had found yourself coming undone beneath him as he whispered promises and sweet nothings in your ear.
Now, he drops onto you, groaning. The room falls quiet again- only disrupted by your heaving breathing. “You okay, angel?” He rolls off of you and pulls you into his chest. A slightly tired hum slips past your lips, and you trace the muscles on his biceps, falling into a comfortable silence.
“You think we should add to our family?” His voice comes out hushed, softly tearing through the atmosphere. You pull away to look at his face, sleepy eyes boring into his. “What, you want another puppy?” Riki presses his hand to your belly, wordlessly implying what he meant, and you gasp. “You mean….”
“Yes.” He caresses your cheek with the pad of his thumb, gazing in your eyes with assurance. “A mini me, or you - preferably you.” You smile, bringing your own hand up to place it on his. “I’d love that, yes.”
“Really?”
“Really.”
With that, the two of you drift off into a peaceful slumber- excited for what the future holds.
.
.
.
You wake up to a cold bed, eyes squinting to adjust to the surroundings and faint light intruding your vision. You sit up and blink, regaining half of your senses when a pair of lips connect to your cheek. “Sleep well, angel?” You hum, stretching. Once you’re out of your initial sleep filled daze, you manage to process the surroundings - Bisco in your bed, Riki already in his uniform, and a small suitcase standing beside him.
“You’re leaving already?” Riki wishes he can stay here with you forever, because the way you ask so innocently -barely awake and rubbing your eyes - makes him go weak. “Yes, baby. I have to.” You pout and nod as if you're unwilling to accept it.
“Okay, I’ll freshen up.” You fiddle with the hems of your blanket and throw it off of you, making your way to the bathroom. 30 minutes later, you’re standing dressed and full with the breakfast you ate - frowning down at the boy in front of you.
He crouches up from his former position after securing his right lace, and brushes his dress pants. “Can’t Heeseung sub for you?” He chuckles and pulls you in closer by the elbow, caressing your face. “You know it doesn’t work that way. Plus Heeseung is on paternity leave, remember?”
You lean into his touch, briefly closing your eyes. “Hmm…when’s that gonna be you?” Riki lets out an airy laugh and leans down to peck your forehead. “When I come back, I’ll be sure to make you a mom, okay?” You nuzzle his hand, cracking your eyes open and whispering softly, “Okay, I’ll look forward to it.” The pads of your fingers brush against his aviator’s cap and you straighten it, grinning. “Our baby will be so cute.”
“Just like you.” he reaches out to pinch your cheek and you whine, fixing his collar one last time. “Fly safely.” Riki rolls his eyes, pulling you in for a kiss. “You know I always do, angel.” You sigh after breaking away from him. “I still worry.” He leans down to peck your cheek and clutches his suitcase, smiling at you in your doorway. “I’ll be back in no time.”
With a final hug, he steps out of your house and into the early morning - on his way for the airport.
The keys rattle in your doorknob and you sigh as the door shakes unceremoniously. Exam papers in one hand, and a grocery bag in the other, you struggle to unlock your apartment without dropping either of the material on the floor.
Finally with a huff, the door creaks open and you stumble inside, feet leading you to the dining table. You let out a sigh once the weight from your hands is put down on the surface, and you drop into the chair.
Finals week is such a disaster.
The uncorrected sheets stare back at you, and you contemplate whether to ease the hunger in your stomach or reduce your workload. Just as you’re about to spiral between the two choices, a ring cuts through and diverts your attention.
Your fingers fish for your phone in your coat pocket and the wary look on your face quickly disappears when you read the caller ID and swipe to pick up.
“Hi angel.” Riki’s voice cuts through the speaker and you relax, mind melting away all your worries for a moment. “Hi baby, how’s the Netherlands treating you?” You hear some shifting on his side accompanied by a soft grunt. “Its really beautiful. We should come here sometime, you’ll totally love it.”
You chuckle, shrugging your coat off. “Maybe we should have a second honeymoon then.”
“Done. I’m totally ready to recreate it.” His almost instant reply to your suggestion only makes you laugh louder, shaking your head at his silly eagerness. “Dork.”
“You love me, though.”
He tells you about the things he saw over the past 2 and a half weeks and you tell him about school - the exams, your students, the absolutely preposterous answers your 15 year old children have written.
He laughs through your narration, asking a question or two in between. “Oh, by the way..” Riki’s voice trails off and you hum, urging him to continue. “I saw this beautiful bed of lilies today - they were coincidentally pink too.” A pause, “Did you know that the Netherlands grow the most lilies in the world? And they're somehow the prettiest ones. I immediately thought of you.”
You shift your posture, reaching out to the fake ones in your vase to dust them off. “You miss me that much, captain?” You can practically sense him rolling his eyes from there and silently snicker. “God forbid I try be romantic to my wife.”
You hum, teasing. “Don’t worry baby, I miss you too.” He seems content with your reciprocal and proceeds to yawn. “I’ll be there with you by this time tomorrow, with a very real bouquet.” Another yawn. “You know I was just joking with the plastic ones, right?”
“They’re pretty though.” You set them back in the vase and pet Bisco- who had made home in your lap halfway through the call. “Not as pretty as the real ones.” His voice is heavier now and you smile at the phone. “Okay Riki. Go to sleep.” He grumbles on the other side. “But I wanna listen… to your….voice” His sentence trails off and you know how stubborn he can get.
“You can listen to me talk your ear off all you want tomorrow, but go to bed now. You have an early flight baby.” Your stern but soft voice finally compels him to listen and he shifts again.
“Fine. Goodnight, angel.”
“Good night, fly safe tomorrow.”
“I always do.”
.
.
.
Riki’s flight had been scheduled for 6 in the morning, far early for you to give him a call, so he had decided to text you before taking off.
Huzzband🫶🩷🤭
Hi angel, good morning <3
Taking off in 30 mins
Imy :(
See u soon
Love you <33
Delivered
By the time you wake up, your phone already has a few notifications from him. You get up and reach out for the device, bleary eyes squinting at the screen as you type out replies and send him a picture of you and Bisco.
Good morning Rikiii :3
Fly safely!! Imy too baby :((
*One image sent*
Me and Bisco will be waiting for you!! Love youu <33
Delivered
You go about your day after texting him - moving around the house to tidy it. Thank god it’s a weekend. The rest of the day passes by relatively fast as you busy yourself in correcting papers, occasionally glancing at the clock. Bisco keeps you company, lazily resting around on the sofa whilst your hunched over paperwork, scribbling corrections and totaling marks onto a different sheet.
“Dad’s late, isnt he Bisco?” Your eyes are glued to the clock reading 21:30. Bisco whines in your lap which he’d settled in a few minutes ago, nudging your hand for pats. It wasn’t odd of Riki to come home way later after his flight had landed, but you would always receive a text from him the second he touched ground.
Huffing, you get up and Bisco scrambles off your lap. Its okay, maybe he forgot to text and went out with his colleagues. “Come Bisco, are you hungry?” The pup follows after you into the kitchen and eagerly waits near his bowl, watching as you crouch down and pour him some kibbles. “Good boyyy!” You coo out when he does a trick. “Momma will be outside, okay?” With a final pat to his head you stand up and make your way to the couch.
As you sit down, you contemplate whether to text Riki or not. Its pretty late, maybe you should. You pull out your phone and open his chat, your messages still left on delivered since morning. Just as your fingers move to tap the cursor, the bell rings.
You grin, phone forgotten as you peal yourself off the sofa and towards the door. Bisco joins you, curious eyes peeping to the wood. The door is pulled open by your hand and there- infront of you - stands Riki.
But there’s something off. His smile doesn’t reach his eyes and he hesitates to move. He must be tired. You think “Riki!” You throw yourself onto him and squeeze him tightly, but he doesn’t hug you back. You pull away, arms still looped around his neck as you stare into his eyes. “What’s wrong, baby?” He shakes his head, opening his mouth to say something - but is cut off by a loud bark.
Your head snaps down to the canine who is currently growling at your husband. That’s odd. Bisco never growls at the both of you. His growling gets louder and he almost scratches Riki’s calf, which finally causes you to step away from him and pick up the puppy- who is barking non stop.
“Hey, hey Bisco…what happened?” You pet him, trying to calm him down. “That’s dad, sweetie….why are you barking?” He’s baring his teeth at the man now- threatening him. You don’t know what to do with his peculiar behavior, and walk to his doggy room, placing him down on his bed. “Okayy, stay right here for now.” You mutter quietly, walking across the room and closing the door.
When you turn around, Riki is in the living room, staring at a photo frame - a picture from your wedding. You walk up behind him and wrap your arms around his waist- cheek pressing into the back of his uniform. Why does it smell like ash?
He flinches. Your brows furrow a bit, but the smile on your face stays, brushing it off as exhaustion. “I missed you sooo much baby.” You say, nuzzling your face into him. He sighs and turns around, wrapping his arms around your waist.
“I missed you too, angel.” He whispers, but his voice sounds different- you cant really place your finger on it, but there’s something heavy in his tone- as if he’s saying his words with finality.
You open your mouth to ask him about his flight, but the sharp ring of your phone cuts you off. Both your heads snap towards it and you move to pick it up. Why is Heeseung calling you at this hour? Riki plucks the phone out of your hand - silences it - and places it on the coffee table where your papers lay. “Talk to him later.” A confused look colors your face. “It might be important…Heeseung never calls this late.” Riki stares at you with a clenched jaw, pulling you in again. Your hands rest on his chest, and he drops his head onto your shoulder.
“Please. Im tired.” Your fingers find his clean locks and you caress him, a bit confused and startled when you feel drops of water wet your shirt. “Baby, are you crying?” You immediately try to pull back -worried- but he grips you harder, forcing you to stay still. You run your hand all across his back with a concerned frown, trying to soothe him. “Talk to me Riki….what happened?”
He shakes his head in your touch and lets out a sob. “Just…missed you too much.” You pull back and cup his cheeks in your palms. His eyes are red now and he looks genuinely sad. “I missed you too baby..don’t cry.” Your thumb swipes away a stray tear from his face and you lean in to kiss him, hoping that he’ll feel better.
He kisses you back with force, inhaling sharply. Its unlike all the other ones which are usually soft and slow - this one is fast, and he presses into you deeper, cupping your face in his hands and moving his lips quickly against yours, as if he’s running out of time.
He desperately leans back in when you pull away for air- and you shoot him a confused smile, tapping his cheek lightly. “Calm down, I’m not gonna go anywhere.” His eyes soften with something you cant quite make out, as if he knows something you don’t. With a peck to his cheek, you untangle yourself from his grip. “Go freshen up, I’ll order takeout and you can tell me all about Netherlands, okay?”
He stiffens and nods, mechanically walking to your bedroom. You plop yourself down on the sofa and start surfing for food, tapping against the screen quietly. Ultimately, you end up ordering from your local chinese place- confirming the payment. Right when you’re about to keep your phone aside, your attention shifts to all the messages you’re receiving.
The curiosity bubbles inside your chest and you click on the messages app, brows furrowing the further you scroll. Why is everyone asking if you’re okay? Why wouldn’t you be? Jungwon’s notification pops on your screen and you tap his name to open the chat.
Wonton 🥟🐱
Holy shit ohmygod did you check the news?
Please don’t
Fuck im so so sorry
Im worried, shit the gc is blowing up
*3 missed calls from Wonton🥟🐱*
Pick up.
*7 missed calls from Wonton🥟🐱*
Shit, please pick up
Are you okay?
Text me as soon as you see this please
Ykw fuck that, im coming over rn
Your fingers hover over the cursor, wondering what exactly is going on. Just as you’re about to type out a reply, the device is yanked away from you. Riki snuggles into your side, wrapping his arms around your body and hoisting you up into his lap. “Focus on me, angel.”
His clean woody scent hits your nostrils, although its very dull. You adjust yourself in his lap, smiling and playing with the ring around his ring finger. “Alright. Tell me everything.”
He talks to you through hushed whispers, always pausing and freezing when you mention doing something for the weekend or suggest going out on a date. You find his behavior very peculiar.
Riki’s never been the type to back out from a date - so whats up with him tonight?
“.….Speaking of flowers…” you interrupt his vivid description of the flower bed he saw. “You didn’t bring any back this time?” Your body turns in his lap, and your eyes lock with his already regretful ones. His hand comes up to tuck your hair behind your ear and he smiles sadly, shaking his head. “I couldn’t.” You pout, humming. “Why?”
How does Riki answer that question? How does he tell you something which isnt his place to tell? So he opts with hugging you tightly, resting his chin on the crown of your head. “I just couldn’t.” You respond with a sigh, nodding gingerly.
He proceeds to tell you about everything he has planned for you in the future - The name of your non-existent baby, his next flights, a trip he wants to take you and Bisco on.
Then- quieter- he asks you about your memories together- if you remember your first kiss, your late night conversations in your apartment, all those all nighters you pulled during final year, your wedding.
“You were the most beautiful thing I had ever seen when you walked down that isle.” You raise an eyebrow at his words, playfully pinching his bicep. “Were?”
He smiles and looks at your striking features, before letting out a soft whisper, “Still are.”
You peck his lips and open your mouth to say something, but hecuts you off by gently placing you off his lap and on to the space beside him- standing up to stretch. His actions are mimicked by you, and he sends you a longing smile- moving to kiss the entirety of your face before pulling back. “Ill go to the bathroom and be right back.” You giggle and nod, already missing the warmth on your cheek when his palm drops.
He walks into the dark hallway, out of your vision- and right on cue, the doorbell rings.
You open the door, fully expecting your takeout, but being greeted by a wrecked Jungwon instead. The smile on your face drops, and you usher him inside, voice laced with concern. “Jungwon? What happened?”
His eyes are bloodshot red - presumably from crying. It looks like he’s been running a hand through his hair constantly, judging by the unkempt state of it. You fetch him a glass of water and he stares at you in shock, voice completely hoarse. “…….You didn’t read the news, did you?”
You frown, placing the glass down on the coffee table and tilting your head. “What news?”
He gulps, unable to meet your eyes as fresh tears well up in his own. “Riki….”
You grin at your husband’s name and the boy in front of you stares in horror. “Oh, right! Don’t tell me you’re worried about him, silly! He got home about an hour ago and we’re gonna have dinner soon….you should join us-”
Jungwon firmly grasps your hand, his eyes blown wide in fear and sorrow. “Riki is no more.” The four words ring out loudly, engulfing the quiet apartment.
You rip your hands away from his, staring at him in disbelief and anger. The audacity of him to pronounce your very much living husband dead.
“What the fuck are you talking about?! Riki’s literally in the bathroom right now!”
Jungwon’s eyes soften a fraction and he reaches out - as if you’re a wounded animal, hesitating before wrapping his hands around yours.
“Listen to me, Riki is dead.” His tone seems final.
Your voice raises this time, and you yank him by the wrist, leading him to your bathroom. “You’ve gone crazy Jungwon. I’ve told you so many times to stop consuming so much of those stupid caffeinated drinks-” You slam the door open- only to be greeted by an empty darkness.
The grasp on his wrist loosens and you freeze, mind going blank. What? How could it be? You yourself had seen him go to the room- forget that, you had literally felt him, he’d been with you the entire time!
You take a step back- voice dying in your throat -unable to process whats happening. “How is this possible…..”
Jungwon stills behind you. “No…how is this possible?” You spin around on your heel, eyes crazed and face drained of color. “I saw him Jungwon…he came home-” A gasp for air, “He kissed me. That cant be fake, right? He kissed me and we cuddled and-” You’re grasping his shoulders, shaking him. “Hes alive. Im not crazy, hes alive.”
The boy stares at you in pity, slowly bringing his hands to remove yours from his shoulders - his silent voice slicing through your panicked one -
“Where are his things, then?” You freeze in place, mouth going dry. Where were his things? The living room-
Your feet carry you to the living hall, and only when you stop near the doorway do you remember - You hadn't seen his suitcase.
Your fingers grab the TV remote from the table, hand quivering as you jab in the numbers for the news channel. A bright image of a plane crash pops up, and the news anchor’s voice drills through your ears.
“..……….Decelis Air’s flight number BT340 which had been returning from the Netherlands to South Korea has reportedly crashed whilst landing. The time of accident has been estimated around 17:30PM. Upon initial investigation, it has been determined that there were issues with the aircraft’s control system, causing the vehicle to come down on the runway.
Unfortunately, the authorities have confirmed that there are no survivors. A total of 250 deaths have been estimated, out of which 10 are cabin crew, and two pilots - Lim Dowoon and Nishimura Riki.
My deepest condolences go out to each of the victim’s families…….”
You tune the rest of the noise out as the realization makes you drop to your knees. “No….no…this cant be true..” You shake your head, a sob heaving out of you as you keel over. “He’s not dead, he can’t be dead!” Jungwon switches the TV off and crouches in front of you, pursing his lips. “He’s gone, honey.” Your gaze snaps up at him and you shake your head frantically, eyes and throat burning. “NO!”
Two arms wrap around you and you shake, clutching his shirt. Jungwon caresses your hair, chin resting on your head as he tries to speak with his own quivering voice. “He didn’t make it. He’s gone.” Your head spins. Its getting harder to breath, and you don’t know what to do. “He’s here Wonnie, Riki’s going to come back to me-” Your vision blurs and you desperately claw at his shirt, gasping for air.
He pulls back in worry, scared due to your behavior. “You’re hyperventilating- breathe for me-” The tears choke up your airway and you feel your consciousness slip. Jungwon’s panicked voice is the last thing you hear before the darkness engulfs you.
“Stop it, angel! My sides hurt!” Riki’s laughter cuts through the gloomy fog and you find yourself smiling. Your phone is propped in your hands, in which a video plays - 19 year old you tickling Riki in your then apartment. Sunoo’s laughter bubbles out from behind the camera, and you yell at him to take a picture of Riki’s red face. The video ends, and only then do you feel hot tears streaming down your face. When did you start crying?
“You were so ticklish.” You swipe off the dust that’s been collecting on the grey rock, and wipe the plating clean.
‘IN LOVING MEMORY
Nishimura Riki
2005-2032
Here lies the body of a brilliant pilot, caring son, kind friend, and loving husband.’
It reads.
Your hand moves to remove the wilted flowers off the gravestone and replace them with the fresh lilies you had bought on the way. The white lilies bring color to the depressing atmosphere and a watery sigh slips past you. “Work was hard today, Jason spilled coffee all over Miyeong’s dress and she cried.”
Some might think you’re crazy for talking to yourself. The residents living around the graveyard have been seeing you come to talk to the air for the past 4 years now - always showing up at 17:30. Exact.
“Bisco misses you. He keeps sleeping with your aviator cap. Its kinda filthy now because of his drool and chewing.” You shift. “But whenever I try to take it away he growls at me.” A laugh slips through, and then- softer, “I miss you too…everyday. Especially when I see those plastic flowers in my vase. I wont say its easy to act normal, but I manage.” You purse your lips, restraining yourself from crying as you attempt to joke, “I'm still waiting for those lilies you promised, by the way.”
The wind blows in your face, messing up your neatly done hairstyle. Its like Riki hears you- because a single lily rolls from the grave and into your lap. Your eyes widen at the flower and a small sob makes it way up your throat. “For me?” The wind whistles again- as if answering for Riki.
A watery smile creeps up your face as you will yourself not to break down. The deliberate honk of a car in the distance snaps you out of your emotions, and you whip your head around briefly, before turning back to stare at the tomb in front of you.
“I should go. Jungwon and his wife have to get to little Mirae’s recital. She’s going to be performing solo, and Jungwon will have me by the throat if we’re even a second late.”
You look into your lap again, gently twisting the flower between your fingers. “I….might visit a bit less now. Heeseung says I should cope with other ways.” A pause, and your gaze flicks up. “You wont be too mad, right? I’ll come…just once a week maybe.”
You stand up when the second honk echoes, this time louder. “See you then.” A hand reaches out to pick up your bag- the other one tightly secured around the stem of the lily- and you glance at the gravestone one last time.
“I love you, Riki.”
Taglist: @momnjam @yandere-stories @starmoonlia
*All writing belongs to @cinnamxncrunch. Please do not plagiarize, translate, copy or feed to ai.*
. liked jay since freshman year, in junior year, best friends with sunoo, chaewon, ningning and giselle, quite well known; posts a lot on twt, spoken about by lots of guys in her year.
─── ( park jongseong ) ~ english major at snu
. junior year, best friends with ot7 enha, very well known, known for being focused on his studies; never had a girlfriend because of this.
─── ( yang jungwon ) ~ psych major at snu
. junior year, best friends with ot7 enha, known, known for his love of sightseeing and the gym; also for being a player.
─── ( sim jaeyun - jake) ~ film major at snu
. junior year, very sweet, known, keeps to himself, very close with sunghoon but the two are vastly different, funny and has many secret admirers.
─── ( park sunghoon ) ~ sports sci major at snu
. junior year, ice skater, VERY well known, but he acts like an asshole to most girls, quite a player but no one says anything because of his looks.
─── ( nishimura riki - niki) ~ dance major at snu
. sophmore year, VERY well known, top tier player, girls love him, incredible dancer, friendly with girls but has no time for relationships.
─── ( lee heeseung ) ~ music prod major at snu
. senior year, known for his musical work, somewhat an asshole, doesn’t entertain women, keeps to himself.
─── ( kim sunoo ) ~ sociology major at snu
. sophmore year, sweet to a select few, known, chaewon is his twin sister, doesn’t care about relationships, social butterfly.
─── ( kim chaewon ) ~ dance major at snu
. sophmore year, funny and bold with her words, sunoo is her twin brother, has fun at parties, very known, friends with niki due to admiration from both sides.
─── ( ning yizhuo - ningning) ~ fashion design major at snu
. sophmore year, one of the most popular girls, incredibly close with giselle, known for her chic attire and nonchalant attitude.
─── ( uchinaga aeri - giselle) ~ fashion marketing major at snu
. sophmore year, one of the most popular girls, incredibly close with ningning, known for her beautiful looks and cool girl attitude.
areudirty
theartofmadeline
