💬

( 이석민 ) — the same as 17 ..

[dkiove]

INACTIVE ! ( dkiove .. masterlist 🐡) — hello ! my name is robin >< i am 18 years old and ive been stanning seventeen since 2019 ! — under the cut is my ongoing masterlist ˚ ༘✶ ⋆｡˚𓆟 ( this user does not condone the use of ai ) ( this user does not write 18+ content )

( old to new ) —

📁 EVERY FIVE YEARS, kwon soonyoung. — content: your ex boyfriend, who left you five years ago, came back all of a sudden. will love persevere even through betrayal and longing?

📁 TAKE MY HAND, lee seokmin. — content: while the whole town is in chaos, seokmin is determined to protect you.

📁 ONE LAST SUMMER, hong joshua. — content: your childhood friend comes back after years. your reunion ignites with reconnection and unsaid feelings. one last summer with joshua — warm and true. 📁 THIS ISNT LEAVING, kim mingyu. — content: in searching for a place to study, mingyu meets you, a deaf schoolmate who manages to catch his eye. he soon realizes that no matter what he does, you cant hear not understand him truly. 📁 STARTING OVER AGAIN, kwon soonyoung. — content: breaking up with your boyfriend due to busy schedules isnt always an easy thing. what makes it harder is seeing him again for the first time in an awards show—few weeks after your breakup. 📁 NO MATTER WHAT, jeon wonwoo. — content: despite the long distance and constant challenges, jeon wonwoo is certain in choosing you—no matter what. 📁 YOUR SEA OF LOVE, lee seokmin. — you, a photographer, is offered a job to help revive a under-the-radar city with the aid of 'tour guide' seokmin—the town's go to guy. 📁 THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS, choi seungcheol. — content: choi seungcheol turned from a supportive fellow idol to the person that you could be for the rest of your life. 📁 FOOLING YOU AND FALLING TOO, kim mingyu. — content: when your bestfriend gets set up in a blind date by her parents, she reaches out to you for a plan—go to the date, pretend to be her, and scare him off. 📁 LOVING YOU IS LIKE SEEING THE FIRST SNOW, yoon jeonghan. — content: falling in love with yoon jeonghan is like seeing the first snow of the year—soft, sudden, and unforgettable.

[dkiove]

📁 content: one ticket to a christmas festival show is another way to see your ex-boyfriend who left you five years ago for his career. 📁 wc: 2306 📁 tags: exes au, kwon soonyoung x reader, christmas au

"i know it has been awhile—but he really looks forward to seeing you there"

mrs. kwon handed you a ticket for an upcoming festival in your town. it was for a performance, a celebratory show by various artist who have travelled all the way to namyangju for christmas eve.

with the ticket was a small christmas themed card—the ones that you stick to your presents with the 'to' and 'from' greetings.

"merry christmas, i miss you", was written in red ink—a small handwriting that you remember after all this time. your breath hitched yet your face shows no reaction. you looked up to see mrs. kwon still standing there, that huge cheeky smile on her face as she realized that you have seen the message.

it has been a long time since youve last seen mrs. kwon.

after the heavy breakup, she made her best regards in greeting and including you in several family occassions—but you never had the guts to show up to see the family or their terrible son.

terrible son? who else could it be.

kwon soonyoung, your highschool sweetheart turned boyfriend after 4 months of genuine courtship.

everything used to be breezy. he was a passionate man who knew what he wanted—and he was determined to reach that goal. so when he tells you about his dream to become a successful artist, you offered your full support and patience.

you helped him confide when he dropped out of college to start getting scouted, you attended every practice that burdened his schedule, you bought him new shoes and equipments to lift up his spirits—and he was more than grateful for the effort.

but a few months have passed when things started to deterioate. as he was closer to reaching his dreams, his attentiveness towards your relationship left you behind the line.

you were being disregarded, stood up on celebrations, there were a lot of arguments about making time but none of those got through his head.

it got to a point where soonyoung have began to forget that he had a life before everything else. but in his mind—a few sacrifice couldnt hurt.

from a dream that wished to feed both people, a dream that wished to ignite a supportive and healthy relationship caused a strain—leaving one hanging on a thin thread while one is dragging along with it.

you still remember that one night.

weeks with no proper communication, a sudden ghosting phase, and limited conversations—soonyoung finally decided to shed light of hope. a simple text message asking to meet up in what was your usual 'comfort' spot.

it was a lone bench in the park, farther from where the crowd usually goes. it nested in front of a pond and the sunlight would shine warmly when it hits the water.

this was where everything started—and unknowingly where it will end.

"do you know how much i was so worried about you?", you croaked, feeling the exhaustion seep inside.

it was the first time youve seen soonyoung in days. he havent come home to his parents while you were waiting that he'll show up, he didnt make time to go to your place and spend his usual nights—all he did was practice and shunt everyone else aside.

but now he suddenly arranged something. while you sat there waiting, no certainty that he'll show up—he greeted you with a warm smile and open arms, like nothing has happened.

like he hasnt forgotten who you were and what you guys were the past few days.

"i know that you were worried—im sorry that i havent been answering your calls or texts, i was very busy," he replied gently.

you stared at him for a moment, unsure on how to respond—how to match the calm in his voice when your chest was still cracked wide open. "you were busy?," you mocked, your voice low. "so busy you couldnt send a single message?"

his mouth parted, but nothing came out.

"i looked for you," you continued, hands clenched at your sides. "i sat by your parents' gate hoping youd come home. i waited by my door in case you showed up unannounced like you used to. do you know how pathetic that is?"

"youre not pathetic—", soonyoung tried, stepping closer.

"dont," you snapped. "dont do that. don’t say kind things to clean up the mess you made. i was sick with worry while you—what? practiced until you forgot i existed?"

his face twisted, "i didn’t forget you—"

"then what the hell do you call it?" you asked, eyes burning. "you left me out in the cold, soonyoung. do you know how lonely i was? i tried to support you and give you everything i have but then you didnt even once return the same favor to me"

the silence between you turned sharp, unkind, and unforgiving.

"i kept making excuses for you," you whispered, bitter. "told myself youd come back. that you were tired, that you'd explain. but now im here and youre acting like this isnt a huge deal"

soonyoung could only look down, unable to find the right words to say. even if he tried his best—nothing he could ever replace and outshine the hurt you had been keeping to yourself.

you took a breath that felt like it scraped your lungs raw.

"its over," you muttered, cold and final. "and dont even think of reaching out now."

and he did keep your word. you thought that he'd eventually come running afterwards, apologizing over and over again, sweep you up at your feet and all the exhaustion and hurt you had will be washed away—but he never came.

soon after that, you heard that soonyoung packed his bags and left to seoul—gearing up for his debut.

you didnt feel sad, empty, nor have you felt disappointed. it was those 'oh' moments that catches you off-guard but doesnt have a reaction to follow up with.

you caught wind that he debuted under a famous agency known to create successful names, garnered a large fanbase that exceeded life out of korea, some even said that he was caught in a recent dating rumor with a famous actress—sending shivers down your spine.

soonyoung went viral a few times on social media. thats when you knew that he changed his name to 'hoshi'—a new persona. he indeed did get famous, had a countable sensational songs and choreography that took the internet by storm. and most of the appearance he had on variety shows and interviews, soonyoung always mentioned your hometown.

you would scoff to yourself upon seeing comments praising him. they would say that hes a passionate boy, a family man, and that this future girlfriend or wife would be lucky to have him.

if only they knew about who he really was behind all those moments they have shared with him.

while he delivered happiness to countless people, all he did was make you miserable and waste your time. while he promised forever with his fans, he couldnt even promise a few minutes with you when you needed it most.

all those years has came down to this. kwon soonyoung—or hoshi—has come back to namyangju for a performance of a lifetime.

maybe find his way back to your heart. using christmas as an excuse, the fifth christmas since he has lost you for good.

it replayed in your mind, like his voice sounded it out for you—

"merry christmas, i miss you"

when you reached the venue, it was more crowded that usual. apart from sweaty teenagers nudging through the crowd, small groups of elderly bustled through as well.

from the setlist of artists, it held a diverse play for all ages to enjoy. you had found a similarity from all of them—their hometown was namjangyu as well.

soonyoung too.

you werent sure why you came. you werent sure why you agreed in the first place. it took a few pep talk and convincing yourself—fighting your own demons.

this marks as the first time in five years that you'll see soonyoung not through a screen or huddled behind multiple articles. for the first time in a very long time—he will see you as well.

but in reality, soonyoung didnt come back to rebuild something he left a long time ago. it was hoshi—hoshi came back to perform for everybody; not for you.

in the holiday spirits, the town came alive as well. the trees that had no life was adorned with warm string lights and fuzzy material that brought out a pop of color. snow has fallen gracefully, creating spots on the concrete floor. the faint sound of someone singing on stage.

it was all so beautiful.

there was a sizzling tone from the stage, coming from the microphone that made everyone hiss. the mc tapped on the mic before drawing it up to his lips. "that was a wonderful performance!", he cheered, adhering to the band that just left the stage.

your eyes stay stuck on the falling snow, like petals from a wilting tree. people bumped at you often, children with their coats grazed on your skin, and the world has walked by you.

"now, for our final performance of the night," the mc continued, voice bouncing gently from the speakers, "please welcome our hometown boy, hoshi!"

cheers erupted from the crowd. his name spread across the field like ripples while some screamed, others clapped, and somewhere behind you, a few voices whispered, "he really came back?"

your chest tightened, turning to face the stage.

he was standing in the middle, a microphone stand in front of him as his hands gentle held onto it softly. you havent seen or recognized this person in years.

not in front of you and not like this. and yet, here he was—falling all over again, just like the snowflakes; quiet but impossible to ignore. it was as if you were frozen in place. your arms nested on your side, a faltering expression on your face laying between awe and ache.

maybe to him—if he saw you— it would be like you were just another person in the crowd. but for you, it transcends more than that.

it was a heart and soul that waited for years.

standing alone on the stage, under soft white lights that made the falling snow glow around him like a dream—or a memory you werent ready to remember. one hand gripped the mic, the other rested on the neck of his guitar.

he hadnt changed much. maybe his hair was a little neater, his frame a little sharper, but the rest—the way he stood, the way he kept his head tilted slightly to the side when he was nervous—it was the person that left five years ago.

his name echoed in the cheers around you, but he didnt smile like he used to. no boyish grin, no playful wink at the crowd. just a long, quiet inhale—like he needed it to keep going.

soonyoung's guitar rang softly, pulling everything else to a pause.

the chatter faded. the crowd settled. and time did too.

you couldnt breathe. not because of the cold, or the noise, but because he was here. after five years of silence, of absence, of never calling—he was here, singing under the christmas lights like no time had passed.

and worse, he was singing like he meant every second of it.

all of a sudden, his gaze shifted. eyes landing somewhere. and somehow, it wasnt towards the crowd, not at the lights. but somewhere farther—deeper.

at you. he is looking at you.

the noise in your head dissolved into something else like snow melting on skin. you felt your fingers twitch against the fabric of your coat, like they remembered the feeling of his hand in yours.

you hated how much your heart still ached for that kind of familiarity.

the music slowed and his shoulders lowered—still looking at you. as if the world stopped on his mind too. soonyoung’s breath caught mid-note.

like for a moment, he forgot what he was doing. forgot the guitar in his hands, the crowd watching, and the lights burning into his skin.

between both of you hung the weight of everything unsaid. everything that had happened and everything that was about to unfold right at this moment.

it was as if he took his eyes off of you—you'll disappear again and leave him.

you didnt wait for the final chord. your feet carried you away from the lights, past families clapping with warm drinks in their hands, past kids sitting on their parents’ shoulders.

the snow was heavier now.

unable to answer yourself where you wanted to go, you nearly collided with someone. the woman gasped in fright. you looked up and froze—mrs. kwon.

her eyes widened when she saw you—surprised, but soft. "you did come after all, did you see soonyoung perform?", she asked, voice tender as ever.

your throat ached. "yes, but i have to go now. could you give this to him?", your hand reached inside your pocket, pulling out a small card—similar to the one he gave you.

his mom took them gently, as if they were fragile. "dont you want to see him afterwards? dinner?" she asked quietly. you shook your head, "no, its okay", you gave her a faint smile—the kind that never reached your eyes—before stepping back into the snow.

she watched you walk away. slowly turning into a small figure as you distance stretched between where she last seen you standing. her fingers still held onto the card you handed her.

although conflicted, she knows not to interfere between the matters you and soonyoung has. but she was curious to know either way.

with shaky fingers, she opened the card to reveal a small note written in red ink gel—

"merry christmas too, please dont call :)"

[dkiove]

LOVING YOU IS LIKE SEEING THE FIRST SNOW, yoon jeonghan.

❄️ content: falling in love with yoon jeonghan is like seeing the first snow of the year—soft, sudden, and unforgettable. ❄️ wc: 578 ❄️ genre: fluff

the first snow is often unexpected.

even if there are lots of applications and weather forecast that indicates the expected time and date of when snowflakes starts to fall—it doesnt always go accurate and true.

thats why the first snow of the year is always unexpected.

you could be in any part of the city when it happens. maybe studying in the library, working in your office job, at the hospital, or even taking a random walk at the park.

and then, the wind whispers—and the sky begins to tell you a secret.

when the first flake falls, you might mistake it for ash or dirt accumulated in the air. but when it drops to your shoulder, hanging off your eyelash, resting on the palm of your hand, or land on the lone window you are staring it—your eyes glisten all of a sudden.

the first snow always repeats, but when it comes—the same excitement and anticipation remains.

although cars still proceed, the whole city doesnt stop. those who remain to look up and try to catch the prettiest snowflake into their bare skin often stay still. for a few moment they stop and stand anywhere—and their world stops spinning.

despite breathtaking season, while others strain their neck pointed up—you look in front of you.

while others giggle and laugh, taking pictures and making snowballs to throw at each other—your gaze merely softens as your lips part with a shaky breath.

standing in front of you was a sight worth dying for. a figure worth freezing for. someone worth missing the first snow for. a love that you'll trade any season with.

yoon jeonghan.

while he admires the snow that kissed his skin, you could only look at the way he lightly lifts his head up and embrace the cold. his hand nestles in his pockets while his scarf hangs loosely on his shoulder.

he stood near the end of the street, right beneath the dull light of a waking sun. everything was tinted soft blue and silver—the kind of quiet cold that settles into your lungs before you even realize you are holding your breath.

you havent noticed that the snow was barely there, just a few flakes dancing through. but the way he looked at them—it made them feel more important somehow. like they were the first sign of something. like the morning had offered him a gift, and he was trying to memorize it before it disappeared.

he did not smile nor say anything. he just watched, completely still, as if he created another world for himself. there was something in his expression that made your chest ache—a softness that did not belong to the noise of everyday life. a kind of peace you only ever felt when no one else was awake yet.

you stood a few steps behind him, not saying a word—not daring to. because in that moment, it felt like you were witnessing something too fragile to touch.

and as the snow kept falling, soft as a secret, you could not help but think—if he ever turned around and looked at you now, you might fall for him all over again.

the first snow is often unexpected.

oddly enough, on a random day, on a random street, on a random time, and on a random circumstance; loving yoon jeonghan is like seeing the first snow—soft, sudden, and unforgettable.

[dkiove]

FOOLING YOU AND FALLING TOO, kim mingyu.

📁 content: when your bestfriend gets set up in a blind date by her parents, she reaches out to you for a plan— go to the date, pretend to be her, and scare him off. 📁 genre: fluff 📁 warnings: none 📁 notes: hello :3

"all you have to do is go there and scare him away—easy peasy"

when your bestfriend confides to you about a favor, you had nothing to expect. she was from a wealthy family—her parents always sent shivers down your spine whenever both of you would run into them in public.

wealthy people often buy questionable objects and do drastic things—one of which is setting up their single 24 year old daughter with a guy whose family is a potential business partner.

so when she runs to you, ranting about her disgust, she reaches about a favor.

it was to go to the blind date posing as her, scare off the poor lad, and all is well.

despite your deep refusal of the plan—all memories of her sticking up to you and being there all the time by your side tells you that you cant just say no. besides, this will be your little 'thank you' for all the help she gave the past years of your friendship.

"but what if your family finds out about the truth?", you ask, scared for your life at this point in time. "dont worry—ill scare them away too", she replies confidently.

"from tomorrow and tomorrow only, you will be me—kim jisoo", her hand reaches out to you in support.

"you are not a lonely 26 year old who is still struggling to find a job, but you act as me trying to scare off a probably old geezer from marrying me"

that was the ultimate plan—and even if tramples over your moral beliefs and values; you would do anything and everything for her at this point.

"you're kim jisoo, your family is rich but you dont want to marry this man so you will scare her off", you whisper to yourself for the past 10 minutes since your initial arrival.

the venue of the so called date was in a restaurant that jisoo and her family frequented—almost too much that they could totally be the brand ambassador of this place. it was located in the city, the grand music and shining chandeliers decorated the place nicely—far different from the small eatery you treated as your home ever since.

you were mesmerized. your eyes wandered around the restaurant; the image of families, business meetings, and dates by wealthy people discarded the life you are used to.

it was as if saying that today—and only today that you are able to experience the life of those people. while they are sick of their wealth and influence; you in contrast is still battling to get out of a hard situation they never got to live.

"when the hell is this guy gonna come", you hiss to yourself, looking at the time. he was almost 20 minutes late from the initial discussed time.

a blind date, how stupid.

there wasnt much you knew and was informed about jisoo's arranged partner—and you hoped he didnt have the basics to her life as well as to not blow your cover.

you had rehearsed your lines. you even practiced chewing gum obnoxiously in the mirror. but as the minutes dragged on, the air around you thickened with something heavier than nerves. guilt. fear. the creeping truth that one wrong word could expose you. you didn’t know his world. you barely belonged in it.

you weren’t jisoo. not even close.

and then—

"apologies for being late."

the words floated through the air like a quiet breeze before a storm.

you looked up—and your heart stilled.

standing in front of you was a tall gentleman—devastatingly composed. his black suit fit, a glint of a luxury watch peeked out beneath his cuff, and his black hair was perfectly parted, not a strand out of place.

he bowed slightly, then met your gaze with eyes that didnt waver.

“i hope i didn’t keep you waiting too long.”

you opened your mouth, but nothing came out. he pulled out the chair across from you and sat with the kind of grace that made it clear—he had done this before.

too many times, probably.

you were too stunned to even begin your act yet he smiled politely. “you must be jisoo". it was like switch that flipped inside of you, bringing you back to the reality of the situation.

you swallowed, “that’s right.”

he nodded once, as if filing that answer away. then he leaned slightly forward, "my name is mingyu, kim mingyu". mingyu reached his hand out to you—yours taking his gently with a shy shake.

"shall we order something?"

the dinner was a spread. full of dishes that you cant even pronounce most of the time. there were unfamiliar cuisines and ingredients that contrasted poorly with your usual meals. but despite this odd feeling—you were at home in stuffing your stomach.

now the atmosphere feels cold. there wasnt any words said nor a conversation that lasted for 5 or more lines between the two of you.

there would be moments where you'd look up at him to see him already looking at you, a warm smile etched on his face afterwards. to which you'd dismiss almost immediately—playing the uninterested role.

"ive been meaning to ask about how your family is doing", mingyu asks all of a sudden, taking another sip of water.

your eyes widened at his question, rambling to yourself as you try to find the right words to say. "they're doing great", you nervously chuckle. mingyu in response looked confuse, "really? so your father already got out of the hospital?"

fuck. it was a key detail that bummed you.

"uhm yeah! he's doing great as i said", you muttered, voice faltering slowly. mingyu tilted his head slightly, setting his glass down with the quietest clink. “i see”, he said, softly.

you were getting nervous every second. you were sweating profusely and your mind was running in circles. in your mind, you thought that maybe if you played this sudden act—not someone who is bored, but someone who looks like they dont know what they were doing—maybe he'd call of the date.

but looking at him, it wasnt fair to make things complicated from the get go.

"sorry", you start, feeling weak. "what about?", he asks.

"this is my first time doing these kinds of things, 's not really my field", a short chuckle escapes your lips. mingyu nodded, "me neither", he confessed.

your elbow found its way to the table, your face resting softly against your knuckles as you let out a sigh— "i guess that's the only thing we have in common"

he follows your posture afterwards, glancing at you intently. your eyes meet in subtle moments, dazed and confused on your side while his started to warm up. "can i ask you something?", he says.

"sure. what do you want to ask me?"

"does the real jisoo hate me? that's why she sent you as her replacement?"

you blinked. once. twice. a nervous laugh left your lips, too quick, too light. “what are you talking about?”

your heart was already racing—beating against your ribcage like it wanted out. you straightened slightly in your seat, forcing a smile, willing yourself to keep composed. “i'm jisoo, the one jisoo.”

he watched you in silence for a beat. two. his expression didn’t change, but something in the air between you shifted—quieter now, heavier somehow.

“you know,” mingyu said, leaning back in his seat, his tone still calm, but firmer this time. “when you grow up in a family like mine—you don’t walk into situations like this blindly.”

you blinked again, your smile fading. “i ran a background check,” he said simply, as if he was having a conversation with a friend.

your breath caught. your hand clasp with each other, bowing your head down as you rubbed your palms— "im very sorry! im not jisoo! she's my friend! she doesnt want to be here so she asked me to come and scare you off!"

mingyu chuckled. not mockingly, but gently. like someone watching a sitcom unfold in real life. the kind of laugh that made you want to crawl under the table and vanish completely.

“you must be really close if you’d do this for her,” he said, resting his chin on his palm, still smiling. you looked up warily, your lips slightly parted in surprise, “you’re not mad?”

“should i be?”, mingyu asked, eyes twinkling with quiet amusement, “you didn’t exactly do a great job at scaring me off.”

you groaned softly, covering half your face with your hands. “this is so embarrassing. i thought if i acted uninterested enough, you’d get up and leave. i didn’t expect you to just—stay and ask about her dad.”

“well, if it makes you feel better", he leaned back in his seat. “you were convincing for about two minutes". you peeked at him through your fingers. “two?”

“okay, maybe one and a half.”

you let out a defeated laugh, pressing your hands over your warm cheeks. mingyu tilted his head, watching you— “so why’d you say yes to helping her”

you lowered your hands slowly, letting out a quieter sigh this time. “we've been friends for a very long time and i feel bad for her” you paused, voice softening. “her family has been very controlling of her life so she wanted to steer away from the usual”

mingyu nodded, his gaze softening in turn, “and here i thought i was just that bad of a date.”

you looked at him quickly, flustered— “no! it’s not you! you’re actually—” you stopped yourself before the words ran too far. “i mean, i just wasn’t supposed to be interested.”

he raised a brow, “but you are?”

“no!” you said too fast, “i mean—i’m not! i mean—ugh.”

his laughter was full this time, tipping his head back slightly. all his expression and amusement cowered over you biting the inside of your cheeks in embarassment.

“you’re not very good at pretending, you know", he said through his smile. “i noticed,” you muttered under your breath.

a soft silence settled between you for a beat. not awkward, not tense—just calm. mingyu’s fingers brushed along the edge of his glass, his eyes returning to yours.

“can i ask your name?” he asked suddenly. you looked up, “why? are you planning to report me for fraud?”, a frown formed in your lips.

mingyu chuckles and shakes his head, "no i wont. i just want to know"

"you still want to know?"

“of course,” he said, simply. “i’ve been talking to her all night.”

your lips parted slightly, “its _____,” you said, finally.

mingyu nodded, as if tucking it somewhere safe. “_____,” he repeated, dragging it out slowly as you felt like crawling to a hole and die. “it suits you better than jisoo.”

this dinner wasnt initially supposed to last more than fifteen minutes. it was supposed to end with this man—mingyu—running out of the restaurant and calling his parents that they set him up with a the most insufferable woman ever.

yet here you were, still seated across from a stranger who somehow, despite knowing everything—chose to stay.

the evening air had cooled by the time you stepped out of the restaurant, streetlights casting a golden hue on the pavement. you hadn’t expected him to walk with you—but there he was, matching your pace as if it was the most natural thing in the world.

despite your best efforts to call it a night and act like nothing had happened—mingyu decided to follow you around for awhile. even if you wanted to forget about the whole situation, you found him walking silently behind you the whole time.

in old fashion, a rich man walks his million dollar shoes along the cracked concrete. mingyu trailed along with you in tight alleyways, poor neighborhoods, and the noisy life which is far different from his world.

he would look back from time to time with a smile on his face, an assuring glimpse while you met him with the most fabricated one.

this is absurd.

you stop in your tracks, your worn out sandals dragged on the pavement. mingyu noticed and stopped as well, turning his body towards your direction.

"whats the matter?", he asked simply.

you had grown irritated as the time stretches. this whole situation took a very complicated path—creating an atmosphere of doubt and nervousness in your path.

was he toying with you? putting you in a situation to use against you? was he gonna report you afterwards? all those things rambled through your mind.

"if you have a plan to report me for what happened, i hope you have the time to change your mind", you said simply and serious. mingyu chuckles and sighs, "_____, its okay. im not trying to report you or anything so dont worry about that"

"then why are you doing this?"

"doing what?"

"why are you still here? wouldnt it be better to just forget about everything? for jisoo's sake and yours too?", your voice lowers, barely audible— “i just thought it would be easier that way.”

mingyu looks at you for a long while, eyes unreadable but soft, “what if i don’t want to forget?”. you opened your mouth, then closed it again.

what could you possibly say to that?

the atmosphere was dreading. the warm streetlights, the faint sound of dogs barking in the distance, the crickets hosting an opera louder as usual, his soft gaze meeting with you, and your heartbeat that fastens every second.

"_____, is it okay that i start seeing you from now on?", mingyu tried to smile, soft and casual, but his fingers twitched at his side—betraying the anxiety he felt underneath.

your breath hitched. you didn’t expect him to say that. you blink rapidly, heart pounding, "you shouldnt say things like that"

“why not?”

your eyes met his again—wary and confused—and he swore his heart skipped.

mingyu smiled faintly, trying to keep his nerves in check, “the truth is, ive grown quite interested in you", he chuckled gently, rubbing the back of his neck.

“im saying that if youre not jisoo, then im glad. i want to keep knowing the real you", he takes a step forward, mere inches separating you and him.

“but you’re supposed to meet her—not me,” you mutter, voice small, uncertain. your gaze drops to the ground, afraid that if you meet his eyes again, you might start believing he actually means it.

mingyu doesn’t move for a moment. just looks at you—like he’s trying to memorize this exact version of you: flustered, hesitant, eyes full of questions.

then, quietly, gently— “i think that’s god’s way of answering my prayers.”

your brows knit, looking up at him in confusion, “what?”

mingyu lets out a soft chuckle, one hand rubbing the back of his neck like he’s embarrassed to say it out loud. “before i came here, i didn’t know what to expect,” he admits, voice steady. “i wanted to meet someone i might have interest in—despite the circumstances of how we met.”

you stare at him, the weight of his words slowly unraveling in your chest. this isn’t what you expected. not tonight. not from him.

he shifts a little, eyes crinkling at the corners as he continues, “i’m glad that your friend didn’t want her life to be written for her. i’m glad she went to you for help. and i’m glad you accepted it.”

the air feels different now—charged with something fragile and warm. you don’t know what to say, so you don’t. you just listen.

“meeting jisoo might have been the plan,” he murmurs, gaze softening, “but you’re the person i was supposed to meet.”

your lips part, but no words come out.

mingyu smiles, almost sheepishly, eyes flicking between yours. “so, if it’s alright with you,” he says, voice dropping just a bit lower, more vulnerable, “can i keep seeing you?”

the night wraps around you both like a secret, as if the world decided to slow down just for this one moment, where two strangers met by mistake.

due to jisoo's own accountability of her life, she gave you way to what could be a love that transcends through time. one that chooses to stay genuine and evolve into something more.

the plan was supposed to fool kim mingyu, but even still— he found himself falling too.

[dkiove]

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS, choi seungcheol.

📂 content: choi seungcheol turned from a supportive fellow idol to the person that you could be with for the rest of your life. 📂 pairing: scoups x idol!reader 📂 genre: fluff 📂 notes: there is technically no plot to this but its just a random thought that i had all of a sudden so i just started writing 🤧

your friends back home, who were your number one supporter up till your debut hasn't always envied you like this before—saying that you should leave some 'abundance' for the rest of them.

they say that you have the best of both worlds: the leader of one of the most popular kpop girl groups in all of south korea and the girlfriend of choi seungcheol from seventeen.

you remember your first meeting clearly. in the typical inkigayo backstage—where most love stories began—and yours did too. it was a few weeks after debut and seventeen was already pushing a year of being a group.

you weren't familiar with other talents at this point. despite your best efforts to keep a supportive and respectful mind towards those who debuted before you—all attention came to your group from the meantime.

when your performance ended, you lead your members backstage to catch their breaths and drink water. unbeknownst to you, seventeen was up to perform next—rushing behind you as they make their way to prepare.

it was a simple and accidental bump, a few strings of apologies and bowing down to whoever you knocked into—and it was him. choi seungcheol from seventeen bumped into you, apologized, and you called it a day.

a few more interactions afterwards in occassions: sly smiles in remembrance when they would walk pass by your group in award shows, bowing to each other out of authority, mentions of support to each other's songs, and those typical 'sunbae supporting dongsaeng' moments.

so it wasn't anything serious or something that would bloom more right?

getting ready in your dressing room, you felt the need to buy that one drink in the vending machines. as you walked, you saw someone bending down in front to get whatever they bought.

it was him again.

it led to a simple conversation. he asked how your group was doing, talked about the award show and the upcoming performances, and you laughed at his tiny jokes.

he complimented your outfit and your looks, he said he saw a few viral videos and clips on social media pertaining to you and your group, and he said asked something quite unexpected.

"are you free this weekend?"

it was a question that could have a lot of meanings. maybe it was just a follow-up on your groups' schedule, maybe a friendly hang-out to ease the tension of two artists, or maybe he did genuinely like you.

like you? your interaction started by that one simple bump so why did you assume that he liked you?

nonetheless you said yes. seungcheol then asked if you wanted to go out for a drink—a trip to his most recommended restaurant—to which everything else he suggested, you agreed definitely.

it wasn't long till you both began to actually date. maybe a day or two in a week, tons of personal and sweet messages that leaves your groupmates teasing and asking whenever you smile at your phone, expensive and grand gifts, and public interactions that fans are starting to notice.

he started to become your person. that silent pillar that held you together when everything else starts to get too heavy. that 'secret' viewer leaving encouraging comments on your vlive. and the person that gets you even without the fame and career.

your image grew overtime and so did your relationship with him.

it no longer felt like a 'honeymoon' phase—it started to feel more like home; it began to be real.

but despite this—it also came with a lot of setbacks. being the leaders of two groups chasing dreams and fame, there are also days where you forget about each other—or days where you forget about the other.

since his schedule was packed for some months; trudging through concerts, recordings, promotions, practices, and a typical idol life—you almost felt like a shadow waiting around for him.

on the other hand, when it was your turn to be occupied in what you do—seungcheol would try his best to keep communication going, even if he just gets ignored most of the time.

it was a probing issue that neither both of you have time to address properly. since you were in two similar positions—there was no need to explain and delve into it much deeper.

but boy did it have lots of effect in both of your lives: lesser time, no more phone calls that lasted for three hours or longer, no cute pictures to send to keep the other person going, and no more time to be a couple that vowed to stay regardless.

"i told you to not call me when im at the studio", his frustration slips through the phone. you blink at his response and scoff, "well you didnt tell me you were busy—you were calling me a lot too when we were practicing but i didnt complain so where did that tone come from", you fought back.

"whatever. i'll just call you later when were done", seungcheol would say and you could hear one of his members call him. "dont bother. ill be up practicing till then so i wont answer anyways"

it would be like that for a few times. almost too much that it became like part of the routine. it was the number one rule that came with the conditions of dating someone who has the same job as you do—but love cant be helped.

not when he comes running to your shared dormitory, opting to talk to you outside for privacy while your members squeal and tease in excitement.

seungcheol wouldnt say anything first openly. instead, his head just sinks down to your shoulder followed by a few sniffles. he would apologize over and over again while you try your best to soothe and calm him down.

"im sorry for acting like that" "i should have been more understanding and calm" "from now on my time is yours", a few phrases like that.

and it only took a "its okay" from you to ease all of his overthinking.

subsequently, life has started to come more easier for the both of you. there were more efforts to be understanding, patient, caring, and softer.

seungcheol wanted to live his life progressing with his career with you by his side—and you wanted the same.

it was to a point where you had no care what people will say once when they know the truth. to you—his silent love drowns those who might have something bad to say.

officially dating for 7 years now and he was still the same person as you met him.

cheollie 🍒: see you in the crowd 😚

was his recent message before both of your groups are wandering around the stadium.

seungcheol was still the same as before. he would guide his members to where they would seat (often and coincidentally behind you), bargaining the staff to let his friends use the toilet together (his cute pleading voice always makes you chuckle)—

and the way he claps out loud for you when your group wins against them, not minding if seventeen lost.

it was the little things that counts for him—but it was everything for you.

his sly smile as you walk by, him ravaging about how beautiful you looked to seungkwan who would shut him away, trying to find the person in the crowd who was screaming your name, and admiring you silently fully knowing that you'd come home with him afterwards.

your friends were right about being jealous.

having a wonderful career, supportive fans, and a handsome supportive boyfriend altogether in this lifetime—you indeed have the best of both worlds.

[dkiove]

YOUR SEA OF LOVE, lee seokmin.

content: you, a photographer, is offered a job to help revive a under-the-radar city with the aid of 'tour guide', seokmin— the town's go-to guy. pairing: fisherman's son dokyeom x photographer reader genre: fluff, angst word count: 5325 words note: the longest one ive written yet so please take your time <3, didnt proofread sorry, because its so congested due to how lengthy and descriptive it is—i decided to bolden up the dialouges hehe

"will you stay?"

"who even are you?"

The bus ride to a small serene city was unlike any other.

You were a photographer, a struggling one that is. Unable to make ends meet—you accepted a short project for a tourism department in an unknown city. Thinking that this will be your big break, you didn't hesitate and started packing your bags.

Its for a photo exhibition tasked to capture the lives and scenery of a coastal locale—aiming to use your artistry in a form of publicity to promote their undiscovered beauty.

Already starving for a few days without any proper plan—who are you to resist an all expenses paid work trip. Right?

The staff you spoke to on the phone as you arrived gave you the directions to their office. A small house-like space nestled in the center of the city, in the middle of restaurant chains and a bakery—easy to spot yet also easy to miss.

You sat quietly in front of a desk, fiddling with your fingers as your backpack nestled on the tiled floor. There were a lot of people walking around, carrying stacks of paper, loud phone calls, and a bunch of desks close together with their owners doing their own things.

"I would like to welcome you to our city—I hope you give us your best work", he says behind a pile of papers, sweat evidently trickling down his forehead from the hot and stuffy atmosphere. "Thank you for giving me this job too, I won't let you down", you smile bowing your head down.

"I tried to find someone to give you a tour for your pictures but I believe none of us in the office is available for a full day tour", he anxiously shares, his fingers propping his glasses in place.

"Are you okay working with someone else?", you answer him with a reserved nod, a grimaced smile follows afterwards.

"There's a fisherman here who's son is like everyone's go-to guy", he leans in, "You don't have to worry about him misbehaving because he's a very reliable person—he agreed to show you around town in his motorcycle"

"I see. When can I get started?"

"Tomorrow. He'll be here by 8 AM so meet him here by then"

"will you stay?"

"of course. what is there left to do anyways?"

The sun was awfully a lot unbearable than yesterday.

You stood in front of the office for a long time now—and this so called 'reliable guy' isn't anywhere in sight. 8:30, you check your watch again; a frustrated grumble leaving your lips as your eyes trail each side of the road for an approaching motorcycle.

"My camera will melt at this point", you mumble.

Suddenly, the front door of the office opens. You turn around to see the staff you had talked to yesterday— "You're still here?", he exclaims, shutting the door behind him.

You nod, "Are you sure he's gonna come here? I think we already wasted a few minutes", you say. He checked his watch and hissed, "I see. But please wait for him, he might be in traffic right now"

"I think i'll just go ahead and start on my own, when he gets here please tell him that I won't be needing his help", you start to walk away, the crunch of gravel under your boots filling the protest of the staff.

Then, the sharp revving of a motorcycle cut through the still morning air.

You turned, startled.

A pale blue motorcycle skidded to a graceful stop beside you. The rider killed the engine, kicked the stand down, and pulled off his helmet with one hand—slow, casual, like he had all the time in the world.

Messy black hair. Sun-touched skin. That lazy kind of smile that made you irritated just for how easy it looked on him.

“You're leaving without me?” he asked, voice light but steady. His eyes, soft around the edges, scanned yours with a quiet amusement—as if he hadn’t just made you wait half an hour.

You blinked, caught between annoyance and disbelief.

He offered a hand—not an apology, not an excuse. “Name's Seokmin. Sorry I’m late— there was a boat issue earlier, and my mom made me eat.”

"Now get in since we already wasted a few minutes", he ushers you, throwing a red shiny helmet in your direction to which you almost failed to catch.

"Hold on tight because I'm gonna leave you if you fall down"

The whole day has been exhausting.

Althroughout that awkward and rough motorcycle ride accompanied by Seokmin's sudden cheering and you holding on for dear life—he haven't made the rest of the tour enjoyable.

He showed you around; from the temples, a quick chat with ladies from the market who generously treated him like a baby, the public library, around his favorite restaurants, and everywhere else—he made sure you captured around twenty images per destination.

Now you were catching the sunset on the beach. His motorcycle was parked farther from which he originally planned, the sea hushed around you, and the sun was on its way for a proper goodbye.

You nestled your camera on the sand, making sure it doesn't fall as you began taking pictures of the scenery—Seokmin standing behind you.

"You really know how to capture beautiful moments", he sighs, watching as your finger hits the shutter button once in a while. You rolled your eyes and focused—to which he playfully encouraged.

"You people just look at the camera and say 'wow this is good', but how often do you actually live the moment?", Seokmin grinned—not accusing—just plainfully curious. He carefully adjusted around you and faced in front, his frame caught in camera.

You stop for a moment. At this point, it didn't matter that he was 'ruining' your shot. What he said truly made you stop and reflect— "living the moment?", you thought.

When have you lived in the moment. Back in Seoul, there was no more option for living—everyday was meant for surviving. If you took the time and slowed down for a while, you will bump into numerous people. You will get walked on and trampled on—living in the moment isn't possible.

Seokmin notices your silence and turns around lightly, enough to see you huddled behind the camera. Instead of a photo, you hit record—a few soft seconds of Seokmin standing beneath the fading light.

"Can you move? You're blocking the shot.”, he stands smack in the middle of the frame, arms loose at his sides, a stupid grin already forming— “I don’t think I want to.”

“I’m serious. Move.”

“I am too,” he says, bending down casually, scooping up a handful of sand.

“Don’t you dare—”

Before you can move, he tosses it. Not hard, just enough to scatter toward your legs and the hem of your clothes.

“You—Seokmin!”, you exclaim in frustration yet Seokmin's laughing already—loud, carefree, utterly unapologetic.

You abandon the camera on its tripod—still recording—and start running toward him, your voice tangled in half-hearted threats and breathless laughter.

“I'll kill you!”

“You’ll have to catch me first!”, he sticks his tongue out and bolts, feet kicking up sand as he darts down the beach. You chase after him, clumsy and determined, hair flowing against the wind and your voice echoing across the open shore.

The camera stays behind, lens pointed at nothing in particular—just the sea, the falling sun, and two of you chasing around each other like children.

It captured everything: down to your the footsteps you both left behind, his laughter, him nearly tripping, your slippers flying in the air, and the sea.

And for a few seconds, you’re not a hungry photographer or a stranger in this town. You’re just someone laughing in the golden light, chasing a boy who throws sand and smiles like it's summer forever.

You lunge forward, fingertips grazing the back of his shirt when he suddenly turns.

Seokmin catches you mid-dart, his hands instinctively wrapping around your wrist just in time to steady you. Your momentum halts. The laughter dies on your lips—not all at once, but like it’s being slowly reeled back inside.

You’re suddenly still. His grip is gentle, but firm. Sand clings to your knees and sleeves. Your chest rises and falls too fast for this quiet, and yet—its there. That stillness. That strange second where the world forgets to move.

You look up. He’s already looking at you. Yet neither of you says anything.

His hands are still around your wrist. Your eyes meet in the soft orange light. And for a moment, it feels like the tide has paused—like time has pressed its thumb gently against both your backs.

Your breaths slow. His smile falters, not into discomfort, but something softer—more real.

And then, as if the moment realizes it’s been caught staring too long; you both shuffle and step back—laughing a little, awkwardly and looking around anywhere but at each other.

“You're fast for someone who hides behind a camera all day,” he mutters, rubbing the back of his neck before sitting down at the sand.

“And you’re annoying for someone who clearly wants to be in front of it,” you reply, trying to sound normal, even though your heartbeat is anything but—sitting down beside him.

"I had fun" he exhales, looking up ahead. "The sun is almost gone," you mutter, "Because of you I don't have any good shots", you exclaim, looking back at where you positioned your camera.

Seokmin turns to you with a light smile, "Why are you guys so obsessed with taking sunset pictures?", he says obnoxiously. "Because it's good, it looks good", you retort back.

"The internet has already seen a lot of sunset pictures—would it kill you guys if you actually witnessed it for once"

You roll your eyes at his response—not defeated, just accepting.

"It's beautiful", you say, your breath caught as the beauty indeed is amazing to see first hand.

"I know—it always has been"

"will you stay?"

"i will go once the sun stops shining for us"

Earlier was full of surprises—your night was full of reviewing photos and editing.

You grumble to yourself in the small room inside the office. Your eyes burn from staring at your laptop the whole day—catching up to you in your most vulnerable moments.

Confidently, your progress was utmost 75%. All there is left to do is review the rest of the album and conclude your task it by submitting entries for printing.

It was almost 8 PM in the office. Despite the promised accomodation, you were expecting a five-star rated room and a buffet—only to be met by makeshift bed in one of the rooms inside the office. But luckily for you, their wifi was fast and small space had airconditioning.

Your stomach rumbles with each tap on the keyboard. With new photos appearing, it adds to the hunger building up. You admit defeat and stand up from where you are seated. Although they have given you food for dinner, it wasn't enough to make you feel satisfied.

The night in this city only got more beautiful. There was a warm glow emitted from each story, filled with sizzling stove tops, glasses clanking together, cheers from drunken men, and laughter from children that played on the street.

You walk beyond realization—not knowing where to go.

"Should I just get noodles?", you ask yourself, halting in front of a vibrant store. Nodding to yourself and your budget, you head on inside to find what you are looking for.

There were many selections: lots of choices to choose from. Soup-based, dry noodles, even cold noodles—this store has it all.

Tempted to get a lot, you settled for everyone's spicy favorite: Shin-Ramyeon. You walk to the front to pay only to be met with an empty counter—you looked around for the owner.

The counter sits unmanned, a lone plastic calculator resting beside a buzzling radio. You glance around the small shop—aisles neatly stocked, a few tired posters on the walls—but not a single sign of life.

“Hello?”, you call out, half-expecting no answer.

A moment later, the curtain behind the counter rustles—and out steps a familiar someone—Seokmin.

His black shirt clings slightly from the heat in the backroom, sleeves rolled, a towel still draped over one shoulder. His hair is an evident mess, like he either napped or wrestled with a rice sack.

“Sorry for the wai—”, he cuts himself off when he sees you. That friendly shop owner gesture replaced with a lopsided grin when you appear— “Oh, you.”

You blink, “You work here?”. He scoffs and steps behind the counter, "This is my mom's store. Do you think fishing is the only lifestyle I have?", Seokmin laughs dramatically, hand caught in his stomach for a more comical approach.

"Shut up and let me pay", you mutter, setting the cup in front of him.

“Is that a way to talk to your tour guide? The one you have a crush on?", he says without missing a beat, an annoying smile etched in his lips like he's all-knowing.

You stare, “Excuse me?”

“Come on,” he grins, leaning one elbow onto the counter. “You found out where I am. You showed up during my shift. You bought the exact cup noodles I like. It’s a little obvious.”

You shake your head with a small, incredulous laugh, “You think I went here because of you? You didn't think it was dinner time and I am hungry?"

“Sure,” he says, dragging out the word. “Let’s go with that. Totally not a crush.”

Seokmin slides the cup toward you after calculating the price. His fingers brush against yours—a casual touch, but it lingers a half-second longer than necessary. You can feel it, the way he’s watching you, like he’s waiting to see if you’ll flinch or grin or tell him off.

“You’re annoying,” you say flatly.

“And yet...” he smiles, “you’re still standing here.”

Before you can offer a clever retort, the curtain rustles again—and a warm, firm voice calls out— “Seokmin-ah!”

A woman in her late 50s emerges from the back room, wiping her hands on a floral apron, hair tied in a neat bun. She halts when she sees you at the counter, eyes narrowing just a bit.

“Who’s this?”

“Customer,” Seokmin says, stepping slightly aside, suddenly very innocent.

“Customer?” she repeats, staring pointedly. “Why are you both standing there awkwardly", she adds. “Mom,” he groans under his breath.

But she’s not done. Her gaze flickers to your face, and then her expression shifts— “Wait, are you the photographer?”

You nod cautiously, “From the city?”

“Yes,” you reply. “For the tourism project.”

Her face lights up like someone flipped a switch, “I’ve heard all about you! The mayor won’t shut up. You should’ve said so right away!”. She waves her hand, already moving back behind the curtain.

“Come, join us for dinner. I’ll set an extra plate.”

You glance at Seokmin, who just winces. “This is happening,” he mutters, “Just... don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

“Is this how you treat all your customers?”

“No,” he says, pushing open the curtain for you, "Only the pretty ones"

"That dinner was...something", you say to Seokmin, patting your stomach, a small burp erupts forward.

The whole time was you eating homecooked meals for the first time in years, Seokmin's mom telling you stories about when he was a child, showing embarassing baby pictures to which you took photos off to tease him afterwards, and Seokmin wailing around afterwards.

Now, after helping them wash the dishes—his mom tasked him to walk you back to the offices or he'll never see the sun shine ever again.

"Your mom really knows how to cook", you say, already reminiscing the flavors you missed. Seokmin rolls his eyes, still not feeling solved from his life literally ending earlier.

"Promise me you won't spread those pictures", he pleads. You laugh at his request, "To whom will I share those even"

The night has dawned upon both of you. Seokmin shuffles his hands inside his pockets as you look up to see the moon and the stars shining brightly. Closing your eyes, you took a deep breath as you walked slower.

Seokmin does the same, looking up to see what got you tantalized— "this would be the perfect time to whip out your camera and take pictures", he jokes.

You chuckle at his comment and open your eyes, "If only—I would stand here and do that definitely"

"But someone says to live in the moment so that I shall do", you smile, turning to him. Seokmin grew amazed by what you said, clearly signifying that his comment didn't pass by your ears earlier.

"Live in the moment", your voice trailed, "What does that mean to you Seokmin?"

He thinks about it for a bit, looking forward on the path— "For me, it's not caring about what happens around you. It's staying still and look at what's in front of you"

Your lips part at his words, amazed by the sincerity of his voice. Seokmin's head turns towards you and asks the same— "How about you?"

You only shrug in response, trying to find more things to say. “I don’t know yet,” you murmur, your voice quieter now. “I haven’t begun to start living in the moment yet.”

He hears it—the softness of your voice, the tired honesty in your words. And when he glances at you, Seokmin catches something in your expression that wasn’t there earlier: a flicker of something unspoken and that vulnerability you hadn’t meant to share.

But he doesn’t push. He continues to walk beside you, the silence between you wasn't awkward, but gentle—understanding.

When the office finally comes into view, tucked quietly under the sleepy glow of the streetlights, you both slow to a stop.

You turn to him with a small smile, “Thanks for walking me.”

“Would’ve been a scandal if I didn’t,” he says with a grin. “The mayor would’ve kicked me out of town.”

You let out a soft laugh and take a step toward the door, reaching for the handle—when— “Wait—”, his voice comes out a little too fast, almost like he surprised himself.

You turn back, brows raised.

“Do you..” he starts, rubbing the back of his neck, “do you have anything to do tomorrow?”

You shake your head. “Not really. Why?”

He shifts from foot to foot, clearly stalling, clearly overthinking— “There’s this night market down by the pier. Just something small. Food stalls, paper lights, probably a guy singing off-key with a guitar.”

You blink, smiling at the vision he paints, “Sounds charming.”

“It’s very locally chaotic,” he says with a sheepish grin. “I was thinking maybr if you’re free... you could come with me?”

He glances up, adding quickly— “Not a date or anything. Just a hang out. As your official part-time tour guide.”

You pause—just long enough to watch him squirm. Then, sweetly, “Okay.”

Seokmin's head tilts, “Okay?”, trying to sound it out to reality. “I’ll come,” you say, “For the guitar guy, mostly.”

He chuckles, bright and dorky, and his eyes crinkle. “Cool. Cool. I’ll, pick you up here? Seven?”

“Seven,” you nod.

There’s a beat of silence, both of you lingering. He gives you a small wave, backing away slowly, still smiling.

“Goodnight, ms photographer”

“Goodnight, mr wore a diaper till he was five.”, he chuckles in embarassment, that nickname obviously referenced from one of his childhood stories revealed earlier.

“Try not to miss me too much.”, he adds.

You scrunch your nose, “I make no promises.”

He stumbles slightly over the curb, laughs it off, and jogs the rest of the way down the road, waving once more before disappearing around the corner.

You wait a moment longer, your cheeks warm, smile refusing to leave. Then, finally, you turn and slip inside—heart fluttering a little louder than before.

Maybe tomorrow is the day you begin to live—and maybe he’ll be the reason why.

"will you stay?"

"just for one more night"

The town had dressed itself in lights.

From where you stood, waiting just outside the office, the street ahead looked nothing like the sleepy place you’d first arrived at a few days ago. Tonight, it was glowing—lanterns floated like fireflies overhead, strung between lamp posts and tree branches, swaying softly in the wind. The buildings, usually muted and gray, reflected hints of color in their windows, like even they were smiling.

You pressed your hands into your coat pockets to calm your nerves.

Then you saw him.

Seokmin jogged lightly toward you, his hoodie zipped halfway, his hair a soft mess from the breeze. He looked like he wasn’t even trying to be charming, but somehow was anyway. When he caught sight of you, his face broke into that familiar smile—wide, warm, just a little crooked.

“You look like you’re waiting for someone important,” he teases lightly.

You raise a brow, “I was. Guess you’ll do.” He laughs, mock-wounded, placing a hand to his chest, “Ouch.”

You rolled your eyes, but your lips curved up involuntarily.

The both of you rolled into laughter, falling into step beside each other as you made your way toward the pier where the market had set up. The breeze carried scents of roasted chestnuts, fried batter, and something sugary and citrusy that made your stomach grumble. The sounds of chatter, laughter, and off-key music grew louder with every step.

The market bloomed open like a painting—warm and golden, pulsing with life. Lanterns in soft reds and yellows swayed over narrow walking paths. Stalls lined either side, with vendors selling everything from grilled squid to sweet potato donuts to handmade rings and wooden toys.

“Where do we begin?” you asked, eyes wide. “Easy,” Seokmin said. “Food, then games, then more food, then regret.”

You snorted, “You’re really selling the experience.”

“You’ll thank me when your third skewer changes your life.”—and it kind of did.

You started with seasoned chicken, the spicy kind that made your lips tingle, and Seokmin couldn’t stop laughing at your reaction until he ate one and immediately downed his entire drink. Then came the sweet potato—warm and coated with sugar, which you both bit into too fast and burned your tongues, only to laugh even harder. You shared desserts, argued over which stall’s fishcakes were better, and took turns holding the plush prizes you won at dart booths.

“Look at this guy,” you said, holding up a stuffed pufferfish. “He looks like you when you get hit with spice.”

“He looks like me after hearing that insult.”, he retorts, mouth full with more food.

At a bracelet stall, you lingered too long on the beaded ones, and Seokmin noticed. He waited until you walked ahead, then slipped back and bought the one you kept reaching for but never picked up.

“Here,” he said later, holding it out casually like it was nothing.

You blinked at it, “What’s this?”

“Don't miss your chance and not get what you want—you have to live in the moment remember?"

You tried to roll your eyes, but your heart was already fluttering.

Everything felt brighter with him, even the lights.

Eventually, the two of you made your way toward the pier. You wandered off the path a little, finding a quieter dock tucked behind one of the larger boats. The water stretched wide and glimmering ahead, and the buzz of the market faded into a gentle hum behind you.

You sat stood side by side, the waves imitating the way you both swayed your bodies.

For a while, you just watched the sea, silent.

“Did you have fun?” Seokmin asked eventually, his voice softer now. You nodded slowly, a smile on your lips as you turn to him— “More than I expected,” you said honestly.

“That’s a relief,” he murmured. “I was worried I peaked too early with the pufferfish.”

You chuckled under your breath, then went quiet again. The lanterns above swayed, casting warm shifting halos across the dock.

“I like it here,” you said, staring at the sea. "I feel like I have a place to breath again". He didn’t say anything at first, just plain listening to what you have to share, “It gave me that, too.”

You looked over at him. He wasn’t looking at you; his head was directed at the sky.

And then—a whistle cracked in the air.

The first firework burst open.

A golden flare scattered above, showering light down like sparks from a dream. Then another—blue, then pink, then red. One by one, they bloomed and echoed, painting the sky in color and sound.

You tilted your head back, mesmerized— "Woah", you mutter.

But once the fireworks caught everyone's attention, Seokmin who had his eyes up earlier, looked down—he looked at you.

He watched the way your eyes lit up with each explosion, how you whispered “wow” under your breath without realizing it, how you leaned forward slightly like trying to get closer to it all. There was something so alive in your expression.

And maybe it was then that he reached for you.

Slowly, nervously, his fingers brushed against yours. And when you didn’t pull away, he let them settle—tenderly—between yours. His hand was warm; familiar.

You turned to him, startled at first, yet eager to see what his reaction was.

Only to see that he wasn’t watching the fireworks—he was watching you.

Your breath caught. You blinked once, twice—and then your eyes welled with tears. Not from sadness, not from fleeting joy, just from feeling deeply.

Like something cracked open inside your chest, “Thank you,” you whispered, voice trembling, heart thudding. “Thanks to you, I think... I’ll start living in the moment now.”

Your words hung there, suspended in the air between bursts of color and echoing cracks in the sky. He didn’t answer right away, he knew he didn’t need to.

Seokmin just leaned in, slowly, carefully, and wrapped his arms around you.

And you folded into him—completely. Your face pressed to his shoulder, your arms wrapping around his back. It wasn’t a grand kiss. It wasn’t loud. It wasn’t dramatic.

It was something better—It was safe and it was home.

Above you, the final firework exploded in a thunder of gold, sending falling sparks across the night. But down here—under lanterns and stars, on the dock of a small town—you found something even brighter.

Seokmin.

"will you stay?"

"i ran out of time"

It was the event proper for the city's anniversary.

The fireworks yesterday night was merely an opening—a warm gesture and welcome for today.

Seokmin was still caught in his feelings; the hug, the 'thank you', and the moments that lead up to that ending still lingered in his mind. It was to a point where his mom had nagged him from smiling all of a sudden, daydreaming, and chuckling while eating.

She said he looked stupid, like he had hung the stars. But Seokmin didn't care—he was in love and he isn't apologetic about it.

The first day of the event needed his help. All morning, he had helped people move their stuff to the venue, carrying boxes, fishing with his dad, cleaning, and all sorts of things—but he was more occupied in trying to find you.

In fresh clothes and a bouquet of handpicked flowers, he sniffed and fixed them up properly, walking through the heaps of stalls he had helped set up earlier.

In Seokmin's mind, he was gonna see you and have another wonderful day with you.

But to his demise, he could not catch glimpse of you early on. Despite his best to search, ask around if you came by, he would get 'no' as an answer. Thinking that you were probably busy and chooses to visit the event later—Seokmin finds his way walking to the office on behalf of you.

The sun was shining not so brightly. It had a warm cast that soothed his skin rather than hurt it.

The distance from the venue to the office wasn't as far. He chose to walk instead of using his trusted motorcycle. There was also a reason why he didn't opt to use his motorcycle yesternight—Seokmin wanted to be with you longer than intended.

The office was bustling just from the outside. Seokmin could see from outside that people were busy, probably from the demand and stress of planning this event.

Patiently, he waited outside—hoping someone would notice him and tend to his needs.

And someone did, the person that introduced him and you in the first place. "Seokmin! What brings you here?", he asks, facing his phone to his shoulder to shield the ongoing call he had. "Oh, I was wondering if the photographer is here", Seokmin asks, a small smile on his face.

The staff grew conflicted, a recalling look on his face as he looks back inside—"You guys didn't meet each other?", he asked, confused. Seokmin shakes his head in response. "She didn't tell you then?"

"Tell me...what?"

"She's going back to Seoul today."

"will you stay?"

"no"

Seokmin wasn’t anywhere close to being a runner.

Maybe he had chased a few chickens for his aunt a few times, rushed around to catch crabs, or maybe got called to the Mayor’s office fast—but he definitely wasn’t a runner.

Yet somehow, upon hearing those words—his feet had never moved this fast.

"She's going back to Seoul today"

He barely heard the rest. The words rang loud in his ears, louder than the pounding of his steps against the gravel road, louder than the breath he couldn’t catch, louder than the doubt rising in his chest.

You were leaving.

His heart thrashed like a tide in his ribcage. The wind whipped against his hoodie as he turned corners, leapt across puddles, nearly knocked over someone’s laundry basket. It was almost funny—how he never once ran like this when you were still here.

And yet now—now that you were on your way out of this town that had somehow, impossibly, made room for you—he could barely breathe for the thought of missing you.

The bus stop came into view.

And there you were.

Sitting alone under the curved roof of the waiting shed, camera bag at your side, knees drawn up just slightly. You hadn’t noticed him yet. Your eyes were fixed on the road, unfocused.

Seokmin stopped a few feet away, chest heaving, lungs burning.

For a second, he just looked at you.

You looked the same from the day he had met you—and yet not at all. The same jacket. The same soft hair caught in the wind. But something about this was so different.

“You didn’t tell me.”

You turned sharply at the sound of his voice. Eyes wide. Lips parted. You stood up a little too quickly.

“Seokmin—”, your voice faltered. “Why are you here?”, you asked, genuinely confused about his sudden appearance.

“Why wouldn't I be?” he asked, walking closer, eyes searching yours. "After what happened yesterday night, you should expect me to be everywhere but away from you."

You looked away, guilt passing over your features— "I didn’t want this to feel heavier that it should be". Seokmin takes another step forward, “Then you should’ve at least let me carry some of that weight,” he said gently.

A long silence stretched between you. The wind rustled the bus schedule posted on the shelter wall. A motorcycle passed behind you and faded into the distance.

“My job’s done,” you said quietly. "I came here for work, and now it’s over"

“I know that it's over,” he said. His voice was low, careful. “Does that mean that what we are is over too?”. You looked up at him—eyes wet, but not falling. Thinking of a response, you only sigh in defeat.

Seokmin took a breath. A long one.

“I’m not gonna beg you to stay,” he said, a bit of a sad smile on his lips. "I think this town gave you what you needed—". Seokmin paused, rubbing the back of his neck like he always did when he was nervous.

“I just wanted to see you. One more time. To say thank you. For all the little moments. For laughing with me. For letting me be in your frame.”

You laughed, breath catching on something in your throat. “Thank you too” you whispered— “For reminding me to live in the moment.”

That cracked something in him. He stepped forward. And without asking, without waiting, he pulled you into him.

Your head tucked into his shoulder, arms wrapping around his torso like you had done that a thousand times before. Like it was natural and like it was home.

The minutes slowed.

You could hear everything—the call of a bird, the wave of wind through nearby fields, the faint hum of a bus coming from far down the road.

“Will you keep in touch?” he asked quietly.

You didn’t answer right away.

When you finally pulled back, your eyes shimmered with uncertainty—but also something warm.

“I don’t know,” you said honestly. “I'm not good at those things”

“But,” you muttered, reaching for his hand, squeezing it tightly, “if I ever find myself lost again—I’ll come back to where I last remembered myself.”

Seokmin's heart ached at that but he acknowledged reality as it is.

The bus turned the corner in the distance. Its headlights cut through the curve in the road. You reached for your bag. Slung it over your shoulder. Exhaled.

“Goodbye, Seokmin.”, you waved.

“Not goodbye,” he said, smiling sadly— “Just give me hope that i'll see you again next time.”

As the bus pulled up and you stepped inside, he stood there in the settling dusk, watching through the window as you found your seat and looked out at him.

You pressed your fingers softly to the glass—then to your heart. And he lifted his hand back, smiling to himself as he waved.

Once the bus closed and began to drive away, Seokmin stood there alone, hand still raised, eyes not leaving the road until the last trace of you had vanished.

"Let me see you one more time"

"will you stay?"

"no. but I think you gave me something to come back to"

That sign of hope and connection Seokmin had wished from you never came to his aid.

After you left, he was waiting for a phone call or a small message. Maybe a sudden appearance or a note you had left for him. But it was all nothing.

Slowly, he had began moving forward himself. Seokmin had lived life much better this time in behalf of you. It made him think of how much of a hypocrite he'll be if he hadn't taken the advice he had given you—living in the moment.

So he did. Seokmin continued to live in the moment. Much more slower yet meaningful this time.

It was just another slow afternoon.

The kind where the clouds hung low, and the sea barely bothered to move. Seokmin was crouched on the floor near the dining table, finishing up late lunch.

The fan spun lazily overhead. The radio crackled with some old trot song. The same regulars wandered in and out of the store, bell chimes following each soft step.

He didn’t expect anything different.

“Seokmin-ah!” his mom called from the front of the store. “A letter came for you!”

He was still mid-bite, “From who?”

“Don’t know,” she replied. “But it says 'Seoul' in the stamp.”

That got his attention.

Seokmin wiped his hands on the hem of his shirt and made his way to the counter. And there it was—propped neatly beside the old radio like it had always belonged there.

Square. Sun-faded. His name written in gentle, curved handwriting he hadn't seen in months but instantly recognized—your handwriting.

His fingers hovered for a second before picking it up—carefully, like it might crumble. The front was a photo.

It wasn’t a landscape or a golden-hour skyline. No sunset. No sea.

Instead, it was him—mid-laugh, turning his head, a puff of sand still floating in the air. His mouth open like he’d just said something dumb, his hoodie sleeves flailing a bit as he bolted.

Behind him—blurry and in motion—you. Sprinting after him, arm stretched forward, a grin carved wide on your face.

It was chaotic. A little shaky. Off-center.

Seokmin was immediately sent back to that day.

The day he threw sand at you and you chased him across the beach, laughing like someone who had finally started breathing again. It was the first moment you both forgot time—forgot why you came, forgot what came after.

He flipped the card over, heart caught in his throat. The back was simple—only two lines written in pen, slightly smudged.

“The sea is still here—for the both of us.”

“Seokmin, the tide will guide me back to you soon”

[dkiove]

NO MATTER WHAT, jeon wonwoo.

plot: despite the long distance and constant challenges, jeon wonwoo is certain in choosing you— no matter what. genre: angst, fluff, long distance relationship, nonidol!wonwoo notes: hello!

EVEN IF ITS FAR AND UNFAMILIAR

Wonwoo admires the photos you sent a few hours ago before drifting to sleep—a little while before he woke up himself.

It was a series of images: a streetlamp, candid shots of tiny pigeons eating off breadcrumbs, a breathtaking live photo of the most beautiful sunset taken from a moving taxi, and a quick selfie of you walking in the park.

The distance has been suffocating. 1 week away from each other, a few more years to go— he thought, thumb brushing over the smile plastered on your face from the view of his phone.

It was a battle between the future and the present— a choice between staying with Wonwoo or move for your growing career; and the latter won evidently. Despite the long distant relationship, the mismatched sleeping schedules, the conversations that never seemed to last five minutes— his love unwavers as much as he waits.

Now belonging in two different worlds— Wonwoo stays in the old coastal town you both grew up in while you decided to challenge the future in a loud city that fueled your hopes and dreams.

Yet the same two people that fell in love remained the same in that crossroad— waiting for the day their paths cross again.

EVEN IF THE WORLD CHANGES AROUND US

"Have you heard? Seungcheol and his girlfriend are finally getting married", Wonwoo shares over the phone, a sense of glee in his smile as he stands in front of the bus stop. "No one told me", you cried in response, feeling excited and overwhelmed by this sudden news.

It was morning in your side—just getting your day started while Wonwoo had already finished his.

There was a few silence from the line. Wonwoo continued to eye his surroundings as he could hear your breath and plates clashing on the other side.

"Do you think we'll be doing that too?", Wonwoo asks all of a sudden. There was a sense of unsureness in his voice— but deep down, he already had waited for an answer in his mind; he just needed you to say the things he wanted to hear.

Marriage? Children? Living in the same house? Sharing the same surname?

There was no certainty of those things in the future that you both shared. As much as you wanted to live a carefree life where love exists as an abundance—that silent devotion is not guaranteed to fulfill the cycle you are in.

But one thing is for sure. No matter how hard it is, no matter how impossible a long lasting love sounds like, no matter how long— a heart that perseveres despite challenges will always survive. Hence, the relationship you both have built through trust, patience, and prayers will see the light that is meant for you one day.

"I look forward to that", you reply.

A short response that is layered with sincerity and longing— yet it was enough for him.

EVEN IF THERES NOTHING TO SAY AS LONG AS YOURE HERE

Wonwoo's eyes squint from the brightness of his screen— your face illuminating right in front of him.

He propped his laptop sideways, as if imitating an image of you laying right next to him. It was time for your sunday video chat— the only day where you can exist merely for each other. No work, no studying, and definitely no distractions; just the two of you talking for hours on end.

It was a tradition to keep things alive between you two. Like a matchstick that flames to keep the sparks glowing, or maybe a glue that bonds you both.

Sometimes they were countless things to say. A few long sub-conversations about funny things that are happening from two sides of the world, maybe a little unboxing quip when you receive your shopping package, or him just rambling on about a new game he bought online— the little things to catch up on.

However, there were also moments that felt bleak. The times where they arent that many things to say. It stung a little—having to gather scattered moments from the past few days, stringing them together like offerings in a conversation, only to hear the other person say their week held nothing worth mentioning.

Sometimes these moments causes doubt, a sense of boredom, and an indication of a failing relationship. That's why Wonwoo knows how to appreciate and turn these silent moments into something worth loving for.

"Are you bored? I dont have anymore stories left", you would say, a disappointed sigh leaving your lips.

He would chuckle in response, his cheek resting on his pillow— "Of course not"

"Even if you have nothing to say, as long as you're here then i'm more than happy"

EVEN IF OUR WORLDS ARE APART, YOU'RE STILL THE ONE I WANT

"Why don't you just try dating again? Its been a few years, i'm sure she also has found someone"

Wonwoo would only surpress his urges to punch his friends whenever they would comment this to him.

Has it been days? weeks? months?

It has been awhile since he had heard from you properly. The reality had missed him in the first chance— but now, it was spoonfed to him upon realization.

Fewer messages, lesser updates, shorter calls, and definitely has been awhile since he had seen your face; even if just through his laptop screen.

His friends had adviced him. Talked to him that maybe you found someone else and thats why you havent been making an effort to continue connecting with him. Or maybe that you have fully absorbed the new life you had and came to a choice to abandon him— leave him behind.

Despite the thoughts and the possibilities— he had come to a conclusion for himself.

He'll always choose you, no matter what.

The long distance has started to take a toll on him. But in his mind, if you wanted to end things— he would wait for you to talk it out instead of jumping to malicious assumptions.

If you wanted to be done with him. He'd wait till he can hear it straight from you— then he would try to move on.

But as long as nothing similar has been said to him— Wonwoo still and will choose you no matter what.

No matter the day, no matter the weather, the circumstances, the hardships, whether the tides rise and drowns him, or when the sun chooses to no longer shine for the both of you— Jeon Wonwoo will choose to want you.

you: wonwoo! have you been waiting for a long time? the wifi in my apartment got cut all of a sudden days ago and it took them SOOO LONGGG to fix it 😞 all the messages you have sent the past few days are lengthy as well, it notified my phone after it got connected 😳 i'll read them now after i send this message. i also couldnt seem to reach you on text— i changed sims because that old one is crappy and i dont think you have received them 🤧 is that why you didnt answer my call? because it was unfamiliar? 😭

you: did you wait a long time? im sorry. i hope youre still there like im still here ☹️ lets make up for the lost time! call me when you read this! i'll send you pictures that i took during the days i couldnt send you a message 💕

you: i love you and i miss you so much 😚 until the day we meet again, i'll offer my sincerist apology if i brought you trouble during the past few days. but just know that during those times, you're the only one in my mind 😁

And Wonwoo was happy to be patient.

In spite of challenges, he was happy to be the one that waited. And because of that, he was gifted the most wonderful gift of them all— eternal love that can be felt through the phases of the world.

I WILL STILL REMAIN NO MATTER WHAT

"Wonwoo..", you smiled.

"You're back..", he sniffled.

There were no words left to say.

Just a familiar embrace— warm and worn with time— that silently forgave the distance, the silence, and all the pain that erupted during those times spent apart.

Tears flodded his eyes, nuzzling his head on your shoulder. Your hand pulled him in closer— his body still as warm as the day you left him.

During those years, the distance, the loneliness, silent battles that put your lives at risk, all the tears and the pain— they were all merely the love you have for each other.

Wonwoo's constant wishes that your pain will come to him instead of you were his way of love. Your hopes and prayers that he wouldn't live a sorrowful life if something were to happen was your way of love.

Two people, though tested by time, will find its way back no matter what. The past will be a constant reminder of sacrifices, loyalty, and unwavering love while the present and the future will serve as the fruit of their pain.

All those time, Jeon Wonwoo chose to stay and chose to always remain.

No matter what.

[dkiove]

STARTING OVER AGAIN, kwon soonyoung.

plot. breaking up with your boyfriend due to busy schedules isnt always an easy thing. what makes it harder is seeing him again for the first time in an awards show— few weeks after your breakup. pairing. idol!hoshi and blackpink!member reader | note. lol this is dramatic and cliche | warnings. none

SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi and BLACKPINK’s YN have officially gone their separate ways.

On May 31, industry representatives reported that the two idols had ended their relationship after three years of dating. Later in the day, a source from PLEDIS Entertainment stated, “It is true that Hoshi and YN have recently broken up.”

YG Entertainment similarly confirmed, “YN and Hoshi ended their relationship amicably due to their busy schedules. Please understand that we cannot disclose further details as it is a private matter.”

According to insiders close to the two artists, the decision was made while both were abroad on their respective group promotions. With limited communication and little time to meet, they reportedly parted ways through a conversation over text, choosing to prioritize their careers as their paths began to diverge.

One industry source shared, “The distance between them grew gradually, not out of conflict, but because of how little time they had to be in each other’s lives. They havent seen each other during the last few months and have broken up without talking personally”

Hoshi and YN were first confirmed to be dating in early 2021 after Dispatch revealed photos of them on a quiet dinner outing in Seoul. While both agencies acknowledged the relationship, the two remained private, never speaking publicly about each other or appearing together outside of group schedules.

Notably, both SEVENTEEN and BLACKPINK are confirmed to attend the upcoming Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA) later next month. The event will mark their first public appearance at the same venue following the breakup, drawing attention from fans and media.

Despite the news, fans have shown support for both artists, with many expressing gratitude for their time together and encouragement for their individual futures.

SEVENTEEN is currently travelling back to Korea in preparation for MAMA while BLACKPINK concludes the last day of their concert and ongoing group promotions.

It didnt make any sense at all, but it was the right thing to do.

You and Soonyoung have been drifting apart for awhile now. Due to the heap of schedules, there werent any time for you guys to meet. The first two years were amazing— more than enough.

Soonyoung was a man of his words and made time despite his growing career. After every practice, he would sneak his way to your apartment complex with your favorite foods. When your group is still in Korea, Soonyoung would treat you and your friends for dinner. And before he would leave to travel for work— he would be by your side till morning.

Your friends like him. Your family likes him. And you like him.

But just like any other relationship— it is destined to fall apart. Being members of two popular groups with lots of things to do; practices, tours, world tours, and travel— time is highly precious. Despite your best efforts to be patient and continue to hope that your relationship will mend; it is notable that not everything works out in your favors.

You werent pressured by the company nor have you been taking advices from other people— it was a mutual conversation. A long yet rushed conversation. The world doesnt stop for no one, neither will it stop for both of you; and you understood that.

soonie 🐯🤍: arent we gonna talk in person first? i dont like that we're doing this on text.

you: i also dont think i can wait for a few weeks till we finally have the time.

you: i also dont want to prolong this even further— i dont want to think about this anymore.

soonie 🐯🤍: why do we have to break up? just a few days then we can be together again.

soonie 🐯🤍: this isnt the first time we've gone on tour. we have figured it out before so why cant we do now?

you: stop arguing and just accept this. ive already accepted it already.

you: we are not boyfriend and girlfriends anymore. we barely talk, you barely reply to me, and it feels weird seeing your face all over social media knowing that this is happening behind closed doors.

soonie 🐯🤍: ?

soonie 🐯🤍: alright. if thats what you want.

you: okay. i have to go now.

soonie 🐯🤍: i just want to say im thankful for you. for the 3 years of our lives together— i really do love you. im sorry that it didnt work out, i still hope to see you and hear from you even after this. goodbye.

you: me too. bye.

It has already been a few weeks.

You can pretend all you want, but a part of you still waited—still hoped he'd say something after that. You waited for a 3am call, maybe a long message that would blow up your phone during practice, or even just a simple wish that he appeared in front of you when you exited the building.

But none of those happened.

The group's promotions have ended. Your attendance and performance at the MAMA awards will be the last schedule in your books after a very long time.

The girls were estatic— excited yet anxious. You were too; but definitely for different reasons. SEVENTEEN will be there too, and of course— Soonyoung will see you too. Marking this as the first time you'll see each other after the breakup, there were a lot of teasing from your members. "YN might keep looking back a lot later", Jisoo laughed, garnering cheering and cooing from the others.

You gave them a smile. Just enough to pass as playful. Just enough to make them drop it. But your stomach had been in quiet knots since morning.

The venue is buzzing.

Lights flicker like stars above the stage, and fans scream at every glimpse of an idol that walks through the entrance tunnel. The camera sweeps across the crowd, the MCs smile through perfect microphones, and the show is just beginning.

Then comes the announcement: “Please welcome BLACKPINK!”

The arena explodes. A sea of lightsticks wave furiously as the five of you walk in, elegance cloaked in black and silver. You step out second, just behind Jennie, and your face is calm—composed. Your hands are folded in front of you, your gaze straight ahead.

But your heart? Pounding.

You know what’s next. You know who’s next.

You take your seat slowly. A little too slowly.

Just as you adjust your dress and try to focus on the stage, the lights shift again— “And now, SEVENTEEN!”

A sound like thunder rolls through the dome. Thousands of fans scream so loudly it feels like the ground shakes. Lightsticks flash in unison. You don’t even need to look— but you do.

You turn your head—subtly at first, as if checking the screen. But your eyes aren’t on the screen. They're searching for someone; desperately and carving that image that you longed for.

And then you find him— Soonyoung.

Walking at the back of the group. Eyes bright and squinted, laughing for the cameras. But the moment his gaze lifts and lands on yours, his steps falter for just a second.

And the world seems to stop.

A breath catches in your throat. The lights feel too bright, there were too many eyes, too many cameras— and an overbearing amount of emotions and words unsaid.

But none of it matters. Because he sees you.

Soonyoung's expression drops—not in panic, but in something deeper. Like recognition or like remembering. He doesnt smile, nor did he avoid eye contact— he just nods. Once.

A second is all it takes when the fans notice. Screams that would rise from the appearance of their idols were no longer for them—this time, it’s different.

They saw it.

The camera flashes to you just as your lips part slightly, stunned, trying to recover. Then back to him. The live feed picks it up. The fan chants get louder. Some fans are crying while others start screaming both your names like they’re begging the universe to bring you back together.

“Did you see that?”

“They looked at each other—HIS TINY NOD THOOO 😭”

“ARE THEY GONNA SIT NEAR EACH OTHER?!”

The energy is suffocating. Lisa glances at you quickly, her voice low. “You okay?”. You nod, but it’s a lie.

Soonyoung and his group is now walks behind your row, just a few feet away, and every step he takes drags something inside your chest along with it. Then they sit— and he chooses the one directly behind you.

The air changes; now thicker and sharper.

You keep your back straight, avoiding any movement as your view faces front. But you feel it; his presence, the tension, and the weight of unsaid things that pressed into the narrow space that separates you both.

The moment they sit, you hear SEVENTEEN begin whispering among themselves. “Hyung,” someone hisses between laughs, “that wasnt just a nod.”, “Should I tap her shoulder?”, “Should we scoot your chair a little closer?”

Laughter, muffled teasing, fans going wild and calling your name all over again, screaming, chanting, and crying— yet through it all, Soonyoung stays quiet.

But he doesn’t stop looking at the back of your head; and you don’t stop pretending you don’t feel it.

The show goes on.

Performances blur into speeches, confetti rains and retracts, categories are presented, trophies raised. But none of it matters—not really.

"The winner of Best Performance Artist... SEVENTEEN!"

The arena erupts. The cheering is almost violent in its volume. Thunderous. Electric. Lightsticks fly in rhythm. The boys rise from their seats in celebration. And just behind you—Soonyoung.

You feel him move before you see it. The brief graze of air against your shoulder as he passes by, his hand clapping against Seungkwan’s back, his face lit with pride and something else—something unreadable.

You dont look, you just cant— the entire nation seems to be watching.

SEVENTEEN takes the stage one by one, bowing deeply, their voices shaken with gratitude and disbelief. Each member speaks with trembling smiles and sweat-dampened brows.

And then, it’s Soonyoung’s turn.

The mic is passed to him, and for a moment, the lights feel like they dim—just slightly. Like the stage is waiting too. He holds the trophy close, his eyes lingering on the material as his fingers taps once at the base.

And then he breathes.

“Thank you, CARATs for staying, for showing up for us year after year. We say this all the time, but we mean it every single time—this is possible because of you", He lets out a small laugh under his breath, almost shy— then it softens.

“There are people who come into your life and make it a little brighter. Even if theyre not standing next to you anymore... you remember the light they left behind.”, Soonyoung pauses; the arena turned silent in response.

“And sometimes, if youre lucky, that light finds its way back.”

His smile is small, but it reaches his eyes. “To those people, thank you for existing,for being part of our story— atleast my story. I hope wherever you are, youre doing well. I hope youre happy… and if you ever wonder, I hope you know I still—”

He catches himself: “—I still carry it with me, the good. All of it.”

The crowd explodes. Screaming, crying, and audible sobs. Fans holding banners collapse into their friends' shoulders. A wave of emotions crashes through the dome as the camera cuts—inevitably and perfectly on to you.

Youre on screen; still, poised, and elegant. But your eyes shimmer.

You blink once— slowly. The corner of your mouth tugs, not quite a smile, not quite neutral. Just something caught between grace and grief. You dont shift in your seat, but your hands are folded a little tighter than before.

And Lisa notices. Jennie brushes her hand lightly against your arm in silent comfort, and the world watches as the screen lingers on your face just a second too long.

You were too calm. Which means it hit— and everyone saw it.

Soonyoung hands off the mic. The boys bow again, and as they begin to walk off stage, he glances—just once. Toward your side of the arena. Not expecting anything; but still with hope.

And fans lose control:

“I CANT DO THIS, THAT WAS ABOUT HER.”

“HES STILL WAITING 😭 REF DO SOMETHING”

“If youre lucky, that light finds its way back”—WHY WOULD HE SAY THAT?? 🥹”

“GOD FORBID A MAN MISSES HIS WIFE AND YEARNS ON NATIONAL TELEVISION”

“The switch to her reaction after his speech is CRIMINAL! GET BACK TOGETHER ALREADY”

You sit still, but your heart is louder than any of the screams around you— because you know what he meant.

He didn’t ask for anything. He didn’t regret. He didn’t beg. Soonyoung just believed.

And something inside you—quiet, fragile, and aching— wished you could reach out.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

The dressing room is full of noise.

Laughter bounces off the walls as Lisa scrolls through tweets, reading dramatic fan reactions in mock voices. Rose and Jisoo were already halfway into her hoodie, tossing compliments about the stage. Jennie’s in the corner smirking to herself while sipping water.

“Guys,” Lisa gasps, “they zoomed in on her face the moment he said that line. The timing was insane.” You shake your head, burying your face in a cushion—“I didnt even react!”

“Exactly,” Jennie grins. “Thats why it was powerful.”

There’s a knock on the door.

A staff peeks in, eyes finding yours. “Sorry, YN? Someone asked for you outside.”

Instant chaos: “OHHH MY GOD—”, “NO WAY.”, “SOONYOUNG??”

“YN, go! Go before he disappears again like a kdrama ending!”

You toss them a warning glare as you stand, cheeks warm, trying to act casual. “I’m just going to the hallway. Not into a marriage proposal.”, Jisoo laughs— "Not yet”

You roll your eyes as you step out. The hallway is quieter now, mostly cleared from post-show chaos. The air feels cooler here, almost calming.

Then you spot him.

Soonyoung.

Still in his stage outfit, hair a little messy, holding a water bottle like its the only thing keeping him occupied while waiting. He lights up when he sees you.

“Hey,” he says, smiling like nothings changed. You slow down as you approach. “You’re standing here like youre about to confess your love again.”

He chuckles: “Would that be bad?”. You squint at him playfully. “Id rate it… a solid 6 out of 10 for timing.”

“Ouch.” He presses a hand to his chest in a dramatic manner, “I just won an award and got humbled in the same night.”

You both laugh—really laugh—and it feels easy. Familiar. The way it used to be. He looks at you then, not too serious, but not joking either— “You did great tonight.”

“You too. That speech..”

“What about it?”

You raise an eyebrow. “You already know”. His smile twitches, but he doesn’t say anything. Then he glances down, nudging at the floor with his shoe. “I didnt know if I should say hi tonight. Thought maybe it’d be weird.”

You shrug— “It is. A little". He looks up. “But I don’t mind weird,” you add.

“Yeah?” “Yeah.”

A quiet moment passes.

Then—he exhales, gaze lowering for a beat.

“Ive been thinking about that night,” he murmurs. “The way it ended. The way I just.. let it happen. I shouldve fought harder. I kept saying I was trying, but maybe I was just tired. Or scared. I dont know.”

You look at him gently as he was rambling— “I didn’t know how to ask for you without asking you to wait.”

And you open your mouth to say something—but instead, you step forward.

And kiss him. Just once.

A soft, careful press of your lips to his. Not long. Not dramatic. Just enough to stop his spiraling thoughts— just enough to say I heard you.

You pull away slowly, eyes still close to his; “Youre overthinking again.”

He blinks, a little stunned. Then grins. “Maybe. But that helped." You both laugh, quietly, as if trying not to burst the moment.

“I will text you,” he teases, finally recovering.

“You better,” you reply, already turning back toward the door.

Just before you disappear inside again, you glance back at him and smile. “Text me.”— and then you’re gone.

He stands there for a second, touching his lips like they still hold the shape of yours.

And this time — he doesnt hesitate.

soonie 🐯🤍: my car is parked outside

soonie 🐯🤍: lets get out of here before the fans notice

Fans all around the world is ablaze with speculations following a now-viral fan account stating that SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi and BLACKPINK’s YN were seen reuniting backstage at the 2024 MAMA Awards, just weeks after their confirmed breakup.

The awards night marked the first public appearance of both idols since their reported split back in May.

According to multiple fan accounts and anonymous staff tips, Hoshi was seen waiting for YN outside BLACKPINK's dressing room shortly after the ceremony, where sources say the two shared a private but emotionally-charged conversation. One insider described the mood as “warm, a little nervous… but definitely not cold.”

“They were laughing. She even hit his arm at one point like old times,” a backstage staff member shared anonymously.

“And yeah… they kissed. Just once"

Following this news, a blurry image circulating on Twitter shows the two standing closely in the corridor, moments after the kiss.

The moment, though brief, has ignited rumors of a possible reconciliation between the two artists, who previously dated for three years before breaking up due to conflicting tour schedules and drifting communication.

Fans immediately took to social media:

“ENDGAME!! ENDGAME I SAID!!”

“after hoshi's speech, i cant blame YN. id fold too LOL 😂”

“3 years, a breakup, and they still find their way back. bye im gone”

"LOL! i bet the pinks were giggling and laughing inside the room!"

Pledis Entertainment and YG Entertainment have not released any statements as of this writing.

While the next news about their relationship hasnt been officially confirmed, fans are calling this a “second chapter”— and whether its rekindling or something more, one thing is clear:

The story of Hoshi and YN isn’t over.

[dkiove]

THAT ISNT LEAVING, kim mingyu.

plot. in searching for a place to study, mingyu meets you, a deaf schoolmate who manages to catch his eyes. he soon realizes that no matter what he does, you cant hear nor understand him truly. | pairings. college!kim mingyu and deaf!reader notes: italicized parts are sign language | genre: angst (?) | more: my first mingyu fic! i really did my best to research about writing sign language in means to represent in a way that isnt rude nor portray them in ways that seems caricatured. lowercase intended!

the study hall was busy as always.

mingyu looks around, holding a stack of books in his arms— balancing it once in a while from how heavy it is. his eyes scans the entire space, in search for somewhere to sit and begin his academic dwelling.

a frustrated sigh leaves his lips upon realization that its a full house. the final exams were rapidly approaching— some students opted to stay at school to study rather than get distracted in their homes or even the busy city.

mingyu looks around the study hall once again. his eyes lit up seeing you sitting all by yourself. the tables were average in size; definitely could accomodate him and his stuff. from his observations, your stuff were neatly placed near you— leaving lots of spaces for someone like him who is in need of a study table.

he gathers his courage and approaches your direction. there was a subtle hint of peace in your side of the world. the sunlight illuminating from the big window infront of you shone brightly— little bits of silhoutte landed on your stuff as you continued to write.

clearing his throat, mingyu points to the empty space in front of you— "hi, is someone sitting there? could i maybe join you?"

no response. mingyu's polite smile turn to confusion as he flutters his eyelids. he reaches his finger over to the fabric clothed on your shoulder, giving it a small light tap.

you turn your head rapidly, a surprised look on your face— "is someone sitting here with you?", mingyu asks again.

instead of a quick 'yes' or 'no' response, your hands moved quickly, elegantly:

“i’m deaf. i can’t hear you.”

he blinked, momentarily surprised. you signs? mingyu thought.

'AH' a flicker of surprise crossed his face, setting down his books in the table. like muscle memory, his hands moved too—hesitant at first, but clear:

“oh… i didn’t know. i just needed a seat. may i?”

you froze. caught off-guard and flustered. you could nod your head in response— amazed. mingyu sat in front of you, adjusting his seat.

“you know sign language?”

he nodded. “i would say its okay. my aunt is deaf so we all had to learn”

you observe mingyu sprawling his books on the table, taking his colored pens as he began working. the way you looked at him wasnt 'admiration'— it was a sort of belonging.

as a deaf person, it is still a surprise to you whenever someone is able to communicate using sign language. there is happiness and relief everytime; and mingyu was one of those people today.

your finger tapped on the table close to him, he looks up at you— his head tilts a little bit, beckoning for your question— "what's your name?"

mingyu lifts his hand up, puzzled and confused. you laugh, realizing that he might not know how to properly sign his name. in defeat, mingyu sighed and lend his id— 'kim mingyu', you thought.

"how about you?" he asks in return. a smile etched on your lips as you softly pushed forward one of your notebook, pointing to your name written on the page— 'kang [yn]'

mingyu responds with a thumbs up, biting his lip nervously trying to hide the giggles trying to escape.

you both return to your studies. and for a moment, it was just the two of you in a world of sunlight and scribbled thoughts. no awkwardness, no need to fill the quiet.

you would look up once in a while just to catch him taking glances of you—amused, as if trying to read something between the lines.

some beginnings don’t need noise.

some just need someone who knows how to listen—even when no words are spoken.

---

first interactions often ends at that moment.

but lucky for mingyu, that wasnt the last he'd seen of you.

would he call it a crush? or maybe genuine interest? or could it be just exam preparatory blues; seeking solace in another struggling student. but one thing was certain in mingyu— he wanted to see you.

after every class he would jog quick to the study hall even if he had nothing to study about. you slowly had noticed his sly movements and gestures— choosing to sit with you even if the rest of the tables werent occupied.

mingyu would also 'stare' intently; often catching him stealing glances, hiding behind his book whenever both your eyes meet.

was it a crush? of course it was a crush. but deep inside, there were doubts that clouded your mind.

today was another usual day. except—it wasn’t your usual day.

instead of spending another afternoon tucked away in the study hall with textbooks and silence, mingyu had shown up beside your desk, eyes bright, fingers fumbling a little as he signed:

“want to get ice cream?”

you almost declined—out of habit, maybe—but there was something soft in the way he asked, something unspoken. so you nodded.

and now here you both were, sitting on a worn picnic bench under a shy sun, the air warm and still; racing to eat your ice cream before the heat had got to it first.

you caught him watching you as you licked a drip from the side of yours. you smiled—not with your voice, not even with your hands, just your eyes. a small thank you. he returned it like it was something precious.

"how was your exam preparations?" he asked aloud, then paused—remembering—before signing the same thing slowly, with a furrow of concentration.

you answered with a nod and a slight shrug: “its okay.”

he grinned. “you’ll do great.” then added in a playful, crooked sign, “you’re smarter than me anyway.”

mingyu could only laugh, the sound light, pulling the tension from his shoulders. but then something shifted in the quiet. not discomfort—just the kind of silence that comes when someone is thinking too hard.

his fingers tapped nervously against the paper napkin beside him. you noticed.

“you know,” he said slowly, looking down at his half-eaten cone, “i’ve been thinking a lot lately.”

you tilted your head, watching his mouth move yet his message werent conveyed through sign. your eyebrows furrowed, eagerly pointing for him to use his resting hands.

he sighed nervously, signing— a little hesitant this time:

“thinking. about… you.”

you blinked. he smiled to himself, eyes still not meeting yours. mingyu then looked up. his gaze was steady, but there was a fragile edge to it— "thinking about you, always"

he stopped, shook his head slightly, like the words weren’t lining up the way he wanted. you felt the heat rising in your cheeks. mingyu dropped his hands to his lap for a second, then lifted again. slower now.

“i guess what i’m trying to say is—”

he looked directly at you now, vulnerable and sincere.

mingyu didn’t say the words. his lips didnt part and his mouth didnt move: “i like you.”

not exactly.

but they were there—in every pause, every sign, every glance.

you didn’t answer right away.

instead, you looked down at your ice cream, watched the puddle forming around the edges of the cone. then slowly, you reached over and nudged your napkin toward him, brushing your fingers lightly against his hand in the process.

your eyes met.

you didn’t sign anything.

but he smiled—small, almost relieved. like he understood anyway.

---

may it had been a few dates after that?

a casual after class stroll in the park, bike riding, taking pictures, eating ice cream, going to pop-up stores— mingyu would always take you.

after every end of the day, he would remind you how much he liked you. signing with all his humility and admiration— "i like you" was his message every single day.

but there was always something that gloomed you. mingyu may not have noticed occassionally but you always do. the way he would forget and just continue talking without signing, leaving you in confusion— and when he would snap back to reality, he'd sign a simple "nevermind all that"

in sharing his favorite songs, observing the certain sounds around the environment, calling out to you— he would sometimes forget, and that would leave you off the trail.

there werent any words that could describe the way youre feeling; literally.

its not like you dont like him. mingyu is nice, very nice. he seemed genuine and his actions shared his interest to get to know you better than just treat this like another way to pass his time.

he knew sign language for god's sakes.

thoughts are rushing in— amplifying the noise; not from the silence of your world, but from the heaviness of your heart.

its full of why's, how's, when, what, a lot of those things. it all pounced down one by one slowly; slow yet tormenting. "i like you", it repeated again and again. his actions, his gestures, his intentions— it was all too much.

besides, you both cannot understand each other. you cannot understand him— he disappears whenever he doesnt use his hands to communicate. and most of all, he doesnt understand you.

the emptiness of your apartment was a high contrast from the world you were introduced to when you're with him. it wasnt gloomy— it was warm and bright as he carried you through everything hand in hand.

but then again— you cant understand him and he doesnt understand you.

---

mingyu stared at his phone, your text thread glowing in the early morning light.

a simple good morning, sent over an hour ago. a few emojis scattered underneath—his usual attempt to keep things light, to make you smile through the screen like he always hoped to in person.

he saw the word 'seen' pop up a while ago yet no reply followed.

at first, he brushed it off. maybe you were busy. maybe your phone was in your bag. maybe you saw it half-asleep and thought you’d reply later. or maybe—just maybe—you typed something and forgot to hit send.

he turned his phone over, then back again. the screen lit up. still nothing.

the minutes stretched.

something in his chest felt tight, like a thread being tugged the longer the silence went on.

by midday, mingyu couldn’t focus. he told himself he wouldn’t be that guy—the one who overthinks a single unread message. but still, he found himself walking, when he didnt see you at the study hall, his feet moved almost on their own, until he was near your building.

he stood across the street for a few minutes, watching as people passed in and out, pretending he just happened to be nearby.

but he knew exactly why he was there.

finally, he crossed.

his phone buzzed. he checked it with hope that leapt too fast— not you.

mingyu glanced at the entrance, then looked down at his shoes, sudddenly unsure if showing up like this was a mistake. just as he turned to leave, the door opened.

it was you.

you stepped outside, head slightly down, hand gripping tightly on your bag.

his heart skipped once. he raised a hand instinctively, a soft wave—then he stepped forward, catching your line of sight.

you looked at him; but didn’t stop.

no smile. no sign. nothing.

you just kept walking, slipping past him like he wasn’t there.

his throat tightened. confused, he turned quickly and stepped in front of you, blocking your path gently. you stopped—but only because you had to.

he raised his hands, slow and cautious.

“did i do something?” he signed—you didn’t respond.

your eyes flicked to the side, your shoulders tense. you stepped to walk around him. mingyu's hand reached out—tentative but firm—fingers wrapping around your wrist, holding you in place.

you looked up, startled.

he signed again, this time slower, his brows knitting in quiet worry: “what’s wrong?”

you didn’t say anything—not with your hands. not with your eyes.

you just stared at his fingers on your wrist, like they weren’t supposed to be there. mingyu let go slowly, as if releasing something delicate.

his heart was pounding, but he tried not to show it. tried to stay calm, even though the silence between you was louder than anything he’d ever heard.

your gaze finally lifted—met his for half a second—then dropped again. your hands twitched slightly, as if considering a reply; but nothing came out.

“please,” he signed, his movements gentler now. “if you’re upset... if something happened... just tell me.”

a breeze pushed past the two of you, rustling the trees behind the building. someone exited through the side door. a car honked far off in the street. normal sounds. everyday life. but it all felt strangely distant.

"why are you doing this to me", you signed, for the first time in a very long silence. "doing what?", mingyu responds, confused and frustrated.

you didn’t move, nor reply. leaving him dumbfounded thinking that he was gonna get the answers he ached to have.

mingyu’s breath hitched, chest rising and falling as he stood there, helpless. the silence between you had never felt so loud before—so defeaning.

he signed again, lips quivering, this time slower, his hands trembling slightly: “i just want to understand.”

nothing.

your gaze flicked to the side, deliberately avoiding his hands now. you weren’t just silent. you were shutting him out.

his arms dropped to his sides; and something inside him—snapped.

it wasn’t anger. not quite.

it was heartbreak. the kind that builds quietly in the corners of your ribs, then crashes all at once. the kind that makes you want to puke, nauseous, sick, and disgusted.

mingyu took a step back. hands clenched at his sides. he opened his mouth and for once, he didn’t sign.

"why are you being like this to me"

he’s speaking now. words tumble out of him like something broken loose. his voice cracks; his hands stay at his sides.

you didn’t hear it— you cant hear it. your face remained still, unreadable. you saw his lips move but he didnt sign.

mingyu continues, more desperate now—“i wanted to be someone who could meet you there. in your world. but I can’t find the right signs. and when i speak… you don’t hear me.”

his voice cracked on the last phrase. his eyes burned, throat tightening with everything he couldn’t seem to say in the language you shared.

tears brim your eyes. shaking, your hands move; slowly and desperately— "i cant hear you"

he laughed once. short. bitter. and wiped at his eyes with the heel of his palm. you blinked, tilting your head slightly as a frown etches in the corner of your mouth— "i. dont. understand. you"

mingyu flinches, "it doesnt matter if i talk to you like this or speak, you dont choose to understand me anyways", he responds.

you didn’t move— "if that's what you feel then why dont you go"

his eyes flickers, an unfazed look in his face as he inches towards your direction. for a short while, mingyu couldnt think of a response. you both face each other, waiting for something.

may it arrive or not; it was all a damning question.

even in times like these, the crickets still sounded louder— accompanying the hearts of two people, beating and pulsating softly. the moon still shined brightly, lapsing the tears that adorned the longing eyes of those who seek for answers.

“if i go,” he signs, gentle and careful, “how will you call for me?”

“i’ll just end up looking back at you, terrified that maybe— maybe you’re trying to tell me something.”

“and that isn’t leaving.”

[dkiove]

ONE LAST SUMMER, hong joshua.

plot: your childhood friend comes back after years. your reunion ignites with reconnection and unsaid feelings. one last summer with joshua— warm and true. genre: angst warnings: none? notes: 13.9k characters, lowercase intended!

---

"why are you here?"

"i didnt expect to see you"

---

"HURRY UP! HE'LL BE HERE ANY MINUTE!"

your 'boss' yells from the store's entrance. your hands lifts the cake up from its place— propping it carefully to stop it from falling.

today was a somewhat hectic day. your boss' son, joshua, comes home from the states. he was your childhood friend, classmate, and playmate— but ever since he left that one fateful summer, you never had the chance to contact him after that.

fast forward to ten years later, children who were once nine-year-olds running around has turned into beautiful people who has found their purpose. joshua became a college student while you were trying to live life as interesting as possible— an employee of his mother's small restaurant.

"he said his taxi is near", ms. hong said, her hand scrolling through her phone while the other holds the glass door open.

"you need any help?", seungkwan, your co-worker slash bestfriend, asks as you walk past him. you shake your head, "i got this".

"you seem excited [yn]", he follows behind you with balloons. you roll your eyes at his comment and places the cake on a trolley, getting ready to light the candles. "is it because your crush has come back?", seungkwan leans in from the other side of the trolley, face was annoying as ever.

"of course its because of that! joshua's face hasnt left her mind since ten years ago", another one of your friends and co-worker, mingyu, joined in on the train. both of them bombarded you with questions and teasing but it didnt matter— joshua is back and thats all that matters.

the four of you were good friends. 'were' because it wasnt just you that lost contact with joshua— both of them did too. your mother's were friends and that ran through your bloods. often hanging out in the playground, throwing stones in the lake, sneaking up to each one of your houses to get food for your tiny 'adventures'— you guys were inseparable.

but there was a different bond with joshua. it always shifts from chaotic to serenity when you two were together. even if the four of you walk home in unity, as seungkwan reaches his house; it leaves you and joshua alone.

you remember it clear as day. the energy was off but so familiar. seungkwan has bid his goodbyes as you all walked him to his home— mingyu had departed first since his house was closer.

joshua wasnt talking like he usually do. most of the time during these 'just us two' rituals— he would talk about his favorite tv show his mom let him watch before bedtime. but this was different; he was silent and avoidant. yet his fingers linked and played with the ends of your sleeves— as if he was gonna say something but never did.

upon reaching your home, you both said your plain goodbyes. it was only at that moment that you felt bad for joshua; he was the last to arrive at his destination. he had carried all three of you to safety but he had no one else to walk with him all the way.

you said your goodbye's to each other, but not with a smile. you stared at him deeply during those moments, waiting for something. it was as if you knew that this would be the last time you'd see him so you wanted to make it longer and hard to forget. "joshua, goodbye! lets play near the mountains tomorrow, just the two of us", you smiled lovingly to him— he only sighed and waved.

and you were right. that playdate never came because his father had come to pick him up early in the morning. no goodbyes, no messages, no nothing.

he was gone and he brought your youths with him.

but now, he is back and you couldnt be more excited.

"HE'S HERE!", ms. hong cheered, seeing his son walk up to the store. your breath hitched and all excitement came rushing in. mingyu and seungkwan raced through the front holding balloons and a popper— you trolled behind them with the cake.

you couldnt see him which was part of the plan, he isnt supposed to see you as well. the next moments were a breeze, you heard ms. hong welcome him with a smile and the popper's loud bang followed afterwards.

"bro welcome back!", mingyu would say as seungkwan clapped his hands comically. "and for your next surprise-", your cue was ms. hong's introductory. seungkwan and mingyu parted to the side— revealing you from behind them.

and for the first time in a very long time, the boy that left ten years ago was all you could see in front.

"welcome back"

---

"why are you here?"

"because i remembered you"

---

summer break.

that was the reason. summer break.

joshua's summer has been going well. he helped around his mother's restaurant and things were wonderful. the four of you started hanging out together again— walking through the same paths as before, going to the lake, eating at the nostalgic stalls that all of you had enjoyed.

during those ten years, it was a surprise that he havent changed that much. he still liked the same things, the same songs, and the same shows.

"my first day was so embarassing", joshua said followed by a laugh. both of you closed up the shop and decided to get ice cream—now taking a walk together back home.

"until now i still didnt get why you didnt tell me you were gonna leave", you said, trying to bite off the toppings on your ice cream. joshua chuckled, "i didnt know what to say— i thought you'd hate me"

"why the hell would i hate you?", you grinned, looking at him like he was delirious. "because i like you", he replied simply.

dead. flat. serious. simply.

"what?", you replied, stopping by your tracks as he halted as well, a few inches from you. "i said i like you— i always have", joshua turned around to face you, a contended smile on his lips.

your heart skipped. or stopped. or collapsed into itself. you weren’t sure.

"you… always have?" you echoed, the words tasting too fragile in your mouth.

he nodded, slow. careful. as if saying it again might break the moment.

"even before i left. especially before i left. but i got scared, and then my dad came all of a sudden and it’s stupid but—” he laughed, soft and self-deprecating, “—i kept hoping maybe you’d still be here when i came back.”

you stared at him. you could hear your own breath now, too loud in the silence between you.

"did you somehow.. come back for me," you whispered. "especially for you"

"but your summer is almost ending," you murmured, voice barely above the silence. "will you go again?"

"do you want me to?"

you looked at him, heart aching. "i don’t want another ten yours to past without you"

he took a few steps forward to you, reaching out to your hand, holding it like he never wanted to let go.

"then i won’t go."

you looked at him, really looked. the joshua who used to chase you down with a frog in his hands. the one who comforted you when you scraped your knee. the one who left— the one who came back.

"you idiot," you mumbled. "i waited."

his breath hitched.

and then you stepped forward — the ice cream now melting, forgotten in your hand — and you kissed him. not perfectly. not gracefully. just all at once. like catching up on ten years in one breath.

and he kissed you back like he was never leaving again.

---

"why are you here?"

"because.. i dont know.."

---

"grab his camera quick!"

seungkwan called out on you, ushering you off your seat beside joshua who only laughed at this banter. you rolled your eyes and stuck your tongue out to tease him— earning a glare that threatened to burn a whole through your forehead.

today was the only time the restaurant closed every week, the only time the four of you could feel like a kid again.

you all huddled in joshua's childhood home— and it somehow transported all of you back in time. arguing in the living room while ms. hong is cooking her famous noodles in the kitchen. watching tv and arguing about which characters you are. sharing snacks that you all bought. and just plain being children.

now feels like yesterday, while yesterday seeps back now.

seungkwan wanted to take a picture with all of you, recreating a photo that you had took before. "ill get it," joshua smiled before attempting to stand up from the couch. your hand lands on his chest, stopping him— "no! ill get it", you said, walking to his room.

nothing has ever changed. after joshua left, his mother never changed his decoration nor threw his stuff out. the figurines he collected, the magazines he stacked up, and the toys he had were still there.

"now where is it", you murmured to yourself, walking to the only dresser in his room. you rummaged through the drawers— six of them awaits to be opened.

the late afternoon light spilled through the half-open blinds, casting striped shadows across the room. it smelled like detergent and something faintly woodsy—something undeniably him.

you opened the top drawer first, out of habit. scattered notebooks. a pair of broken earphones. an old, wrinkled concert ticket.

second drawer.

you pulled it open slowly.

shirts, neatly folded. a roll of film peeking from between them. you reached in, fingers brushing against the cold metal of the camera. vintage, just like he said.

but then something shifted underneath.

an enveloped where it was torn from the top hastily.

you paused. you shouldn’t. you hesitated.

but your fingers moved anyway, dragging it gently out. the paper was thick, unsealed, addressed to one person only— joshua hong.

your breath caught in your throat. it was an acceptance letter for a university in london. beneath it, a plane ticket. dated two days from now.

your hand trembled slightly as you held it.

and suddenly, the room felt different. quieter. heavier.

“found it?” joshua’s voice called. you didnt reply, you didnt turn around, you just stood there with tears brimming your eyes.

"what you got there?", he said lovingly, going up behind you. "[yn]?", joshua called out once again, this time inching closer to you as he finally caught glimpse of what's on your hand.

his eyes widened, instantly he came tense as a lump formed in his throat. "when were you planning to tell me?", you faltered, turning around to face him. he stood in front of you, unable to look you in the eyes.

"[yn].. its-", joshua started, yet nothing comes out of his mouth— not the right words. "when were you planning to tell me!", you sobbed once again, demanding and searching for an answer.

"you promised me. you told me you werent gonna go again", you said, voice barely holding it together. "you told me that you werent gonna leave again so tell me why is this happening!"

"please li-", he choked, voice cracking. "how could you.. how could you toy with my sincerity?" you whispered as tears welled in your eyes, fists clenched like they were holding back the rest of what you wanted to say.

"[yn], that was my plan in the FIRST place, in the FIRST place," joshua said, his voice firm but pleading, like he was trying to make you understand.

"i always knew, and i was patient that you'd change my mind"

"change your mind? like you can't do that all by yourself?" you said, voice shaking through the tears, each word dripping with disbelief. "joshua i love you, but how am i supposed to live through another few years without you"

he didnt have time to say something else. not a reply. a clarification. a sorry. it didnt take long for you to leave, passing by his mother, seungkwan and mingyu was standing behind the door.

for the first time in a lot of years, it was [yn] that left first. for the first time, it was joshua that was left behind.

---

"why are you here?"

"maybe to say goodbye"

---

after that day, you havent seen joshua again.

like some old-fashioned sense, he never reached out nor came to you— even if he knew where you are. even so, you still showed up to work. to your surprise, you werent drowning in questions; it was like any other day.

mingyu and seungkwan never actually tried to step on your line, but once or so you would feel them shifting behind you— pushing each other to somehow strike up a conversation. joshua never came as well; he might be busy packing his stuff again.

closing was almost near and it was your duty.

"how have you been?", a soft voiced called as you were locking the front door. you looked beside you and saw ms. hong standing there with a smile, her hands inside the pocket of her coat. you sighed and shifted, keeping a tender smile— "im fine"

"you know, when joshua told me that he wanted to go back here for summer— i was very thrilled", she began talking, walking up closer to you and leaning onto the walls of her restaurant. "all those time i really waited for him to come back"

"but then i realized that i wasnt the only reason he did", you stopped at what she said, dreading for the worst, "he also came back for you"

"i know that he lied about staying— but trust me, he wasnt toying with your sincerity"

"joshua is a coward", you muttered. his mother could only laugh at your quip, "he is— but he's also brave", she smiled. "brave because he knew he was going away yet he still confessed to you and loved you— he was brave to himself and his choices"

your eyes met the concrete floor, sighing to yourself as you listened to her ramble about her son. "cant you persuade him to stay?", was what came out of your mouth, catching her off-guard. with a smile, her hands hovered on top of yours, "joshua is aware of what he is doing— he is capable"

"all he talks about before was how he wants to leave and go everywhere around the world", you look up at her with desperation. "im saying that if joshua wants to stay he will, but if he doesnt— your story will be far from over"

"and at this point, i dont think im the one that can persuade him to stay"

---

"why are you here?"

"because your home is my home too"

---

"SEUNGKWAN RUN FASTER!"

you scream, looking back at seungkwan who almost collapsed on the airport floor in exhaustion. he held up a thumbs up as you continued with your own pace.

today was joshua's flight— and there was no way youre going to let him leave without hearing you out first.

after his mother's words ran throughout your mind all night, it pushed you through a realization that no matter where he is in the world— as long as tomorrow still evolves and he keeps his promise, it doesnt matter anymore.

"where the fuck is gate 5?!", mingyu hisses, looking around the crowd in search for that gate. you huff in exhaustion, "joshua please wait for me"

"my back is killing me", seungkwan cries, catching up to both of you. "just a little more!" you shout, weaving through a cluster of tourists dragging oversized luggage. your eyes scanned the digital sign above — gates 1 through 4 flashing in red.

mingyu was already sprinting ahead, checking every turn like his life depended on it. "this place is a goddamn maze," he muttered, then yelled over his shoulder, "i swear if he already boarded—"

"don't say that!" you snapped, panting, your chest tight from both the running and the weight in your heart.

"gate 5! that way!" seungkwan wheezed, pointing with the last of his strength.

you didn’t wait.

you bolted.

the wind from a nearby open gate blew through your hair as you turned the corner— and then you saw it. gate 5. bright. open. crowded.

your feet slammed against the floor, pushing you forward. everything else blurred. all you could see was the back of a figure in a dark jacket, standing in the middle of the crowd— looking lost, defeated, and waiting.

"hong joshua!" you screamed.

he turned slowly, almost like he thought he imagined it. his eyes widened when he saw you.

you didn’t stop until you reached him, breathless, wild, tears threatening to fall. "[yn]?", he choked.

"i’m not here to stop you," you said quickly, voice shaking. "i just— i need you to know that i don’t care where you’re going. i don’t care how far. just say you’ll come back and ill be here waiting for you"

he stared at you, frozen. everything else — the airport noise, the final boarding call, the security line — faded into nothing.

"i was wrong for not hearing you out but i will be more wrong if i let you leave without knowing how much i love you", you said. "even if its another ten years? twenty years? thirty? i dont care—i will wait", you swallowed hard, trying to steady your breath.

"i dont think that i take that long to shower?", joshua replied calmly. your eyebrows furrowed as you stared at him.

he slowly walked up to you, reaching out to gently cup your cheek, thumb brushing away the tear that finally slipped down. "how am i supposed to leave you behind?", joshua sighed, tucking a loose piece of her in the back of your ear.

they called his name, you expect him to move away and board but he leaned in and kissed you — fast, desperate, memorized — like he was trying to keep you with him in every place he was about to go.

you break away softly, looking up at him— "go, theyre gonna leave you, you whispered with a smile. "i know", he replied.

he didn’t move.

you watched his eyes flicker — not to the gate, not to the flight attendant calling his name again, but to you. only you.

"i know," he said again, softer this time. then he smiled, almost like it hurt. "but i’m not going."

your breath caught. "what?"

"i thought i could," he whispered, brushing his forehead against yours. "i thought walking away would be the easier choice. but now you’re here and suddenly... nothing else feels right."

"joshua—" your voice cracked.

"i was packed, ready, convincing myself it was just a goodbye," he said, taking your hands in his, holding them like they were something precious. "but then i saw you running through the crowd. calling my name. and it hit me— i don’t want a life that doesn’t have this, one that doesn’t have you."

his name was called one last time.

he didn’t even flinch.

instead, he let out a quiet laugh and pulled you into his chest, arms wrapping around you with a kind of certainty he didn’t have an hour ago.

"let them leave without me," he murmured into your hair. "i’ve already found where i need to be— even for one last summer"

---

"why did you stay?"

"because wherever i go, my heart always leads to you"

---

[dkiove]

TAKE MY HAND, lee seokmin.

plot: while the whole town is in chaos, seokmin is determined to protect you.

genre: angst, political uprising set in the 1980s

warnings: mention of we4p0ns, bl00d, m4ssacr3.

note: lowercase intended!

"have you seen the news?"

you walk to the living room, a towel dangling on your arm. seokmin, your husband, is eating his breakfast— "im looking at it right now". his eyes stays glued to the television, feeding himself another spoonful of rice. you go behind him, hovering the towel on top of his drenched hair— shaking gently yet efficiently.

"a small group of radical elements instigated disorder in jeonju city yesterday", the newscaster reports in her usual voice. you stop for a moment, focusing on the news. your hand grips lightly on seokmin's exposed shoulder.

"martial law troops have been deployed to restore peace and ensure the safety of civilians. citizens are urged to remain indoors and comply with curfews.”, your palm meets your lips, masking the gasp you let out. seokmin notices your demeanor and reaches over to your arm, rubbing on it softly.

"what has been going on lately", you say, fear in your tone. you throw the towel on the small table close to you, taking a seat beside him. seokmin sets down his utensils and turns to you— "im sure we will be okay if we follow their instructions", his lips curled into a reassuring smile.

"im not comfortable with you working in these conditions; you get home really late and something might happen", you murmur, airing your concern. seokmin holds your hand, rubbing his thumb soothingly on your skin.

"i will be fine— i promise you that", his lips land a soft kiss on your knuckles.

"i will not let anything bad happen to me— on behalf of you"

---

"how much is this?"

a woman. an old woman, in her late 70's, holding a crane to support her frailing body points to the lonely fish resting atop the container. seokmin looks over, "its 500 won, but since you're my last customer— i'll give it you for 400", he smiles warmly.

delighted and blessed, the lady fishes through her purse and hands seokmin a bill who in return gives her a plastic bag. "thank you, young man", she says before walking away.

"take care!", seokmin sends her off, concluding his day.

it was now 8PM.

today was full of distraught. not only was it empty— the current situation sent the other vendors and their business to the edge. the townsfolk has been rallying and protesting outside the mayor's building for hours on end; seokmin could hear their cries and screams from miles away.

but luckily for him, fate was on his side.

no matter the time or weather— he always managed to sell out his produce. it might not be much but its enough to last you and him a few days.

"today is really that day", soonyoung, a friend and co-vendor of seokmin walks to his stall.

he was a vegetable vendor. his produce is grown organic from his family's farm. before the movement, he would be abudant— but due to the recent situation, he found it difficult to sell the vegetables he fought hard to harvest.

"i guess you could say that, its been rough", seokmin replies, folding the fish nets and placing them in big plastic bags. "rough? you sold out your fishes. my vegetables are basically rotting over there", soonyoung says, earning a chuckle from seokmin.

"what is going on really", he continues. seokmin walks to his friend, the night accompanying both of them. the market had already closed its light earlier— the vendors have lost their hope. some were quick to close their stalls to join the protest while others just gave up.

"i know— my wife is worried", seokmin says— "how are the kids?".

"one of them is sick while the other one is in school", the older man replies, his hands deep in his pockets as he swayed in his own pace from time to time. "i have to go back to gwangju tomorrow, to take care of them", he adds.

"gwangju? what about your stall?", seokmin asks, eyebrows furrowed in curiosity. "its not like im missing out anyways— while our town is fucked, a single soul wont pay a dime for my crops", soonyoung kicks a rock.

its a harsh reality really. in fight for righteousness, the lives of others are burdened. they have to continuously scavenge through life with a stick— while some poke their metals and their guns carelessly at their faces.

"ill get going— see you when i see you", soonyoung says, playfully hitting seokmin's shoulder with his own.

he doesnt say a word; he just watched his friend go inside his truck and drive away to the unknown.

"time to go home"

---

some roads were blocked, some were barricaded, while some were cornered by army men and their long rifles.

seokmin was intimidated; scared, confused, and unsure.

it has been half an hour, stuck in his truck as he tries to find a way home. "poor girl must be waiting for me", he says to himself, thinking about you— probably worried sick.

at last, for what felt like eternity, seokmin has found a way leading to your shared home.

during his trip, he saw people walking in the same direction— presumably to the protest. they had megaphones, tarpaulins, cardboards, messages displayed on every crevice they could find— it was a disaster.

but most importantly, he saw a lady selling sweet potato on the side of the road. parking his vehicle close, he jogged to the seller's stand and bought three. seokmin knows how much you love sweet potato— and to his nature, he'll buy it every chance he gets.

he pulls out his wallet, grabbing bits of his money. "here you go a-", before he could finish, a loud errupting bang shakes the ground. seokmin collapses to the ground, hand covering his ears from the defeaning noise.

he looks forward, smoke and fire etched at the center of the city— the mayor's office, he concluded.

people were running, gunshots were fired, there were screaming, crying, footsteps, and sounds of debris falling on the ground.

wide eyed, seokmin stood up completely. crouching down once in a while as pieces of concrete and other material showered upon him. he turned to see the lady in the same position as him, "miss are you okay? are you hurt?", he asks. the lady replied shakes her head, lips pressed in fear.

"EVERYBODY RUN! THEY'RE GONNA KILL US!", a man in his mid-30's, his shirt tattered as blood trickled down his forehead screams on top of his lungs— pointing behind him where soldiers rush.

seokmin's hand trembles,

"i have to go home to my wife"

---

it didnt take him a whole minute to process. he was out of there in an instant. he wasnt sure if someone had followed him and his truck— but one thing is certain, he was gonna get you.

the neighborhood was quiet when he arrived, but the smoke had gotten closer. seokmin rushes out of the vehicle and runs to the front door of your shared home, "[yn]!", he calls out.

he didnt get the chance to touch the door knob as the front door swung a few moments later— there you stood, fear in your eyes as you face him. "seokmin!", you cried, taking him in for a hug— tight and secure.

you took heavy breaths, hands running all up his body in search for injuries. "are you okay?", you ask, breaking the hug. "im fine—we have to get out of here", he says, his hands pressed gently on both sides of your face— planting a comforting kiss on your forehead.

"what happened?", you ask, but he didnt answer.

instead, he leaves you by the front door as he barged inside— hands scowering through the drawers in search for things you could bring. "seokmin, what are you doing?", you stammered.

"we have to get out of here", seokmin said, emerging from the bedroom holding a suitcase. it was for the trip both of you had packed for jeju— but now seokmin has to use it for this moment.

he rushed, grabbing her arm and leading her back to the truck. seokmin throws the luggage at the back, securing it with a rope. "get in the truck," he spat, eyes still focused on keeping their baggage safe.

you stand there shaken, hands engulfing yourself in a hug. watching your husband be in this kind of state scares you— its like everything he had promised goes the opposite way.

seokmin doesnt see you moving with urgency, his gazing eyes darts to you—"what are you still doing there", he asks in disbelief. "seokmin im scared", you confess, a lump forming on your throat as tears swell in your eyes.

"we have to go now, get in the truck", he pleaded— gripping your arm, face inching closer to you. at this point you could see it clearly, there were cuts on his face, tiny shards and fresh blood everywhere.

"what if they kill us, find us as we try to escape", flow of hot streams leave your eyes, fearing for the worse. it wasnt merely overthinking— it was a call for reality.

if people were killed despite their peaceful manner like what the radio had said— what would they do to people that are actively trying to escape.

you breakdown. seokmin comes to his senses seeing you come undone like this. he breaths slowly, pulling you to his embrace as his hand moves slowly to the top of your head.

"im sorry, im sorry", he whispered in between breaths. "i wont let anything bad happen to you, im sorry", you continued to cry.

"listen, we'll go to gwangju— we'll find soonyoung and stay there until the coast is clear okay?", his voice slowed down. from what was frantic now turned soft and comforting. you nod at his words watching him pull away from you and open the front door of the truck.

"come, take my hand", he said softly, holding his palm out to you—despite the haze, smoke and fear. "i got you", like a calm through the storm, holding out to you like a lifeline; like his life depended on it.

"i always got you"

---

soonyoung coughs, stirring a cup of warm wilk for his daughter laying on the hospital bed. after the recent chaos in jeonju, he was lucky he had left the same night. if he hadnt, he would be one of those who were killed.

"dad, can you turn on the tv?", his daughter pleaded. soonyoung ruffled the girl's hair lightly, reaching for the remote to fulfill her request. "what do you want to watch?", he asks with a smile on his face.

sports channel, "korea's socce-"

history channel, "tonight on hi-"

news channel, "178 killed in jeo-"

kids channel, "coming u-"

wait. soonyoung's eyebrows furrowed, switching back to the news channel. his daughter protested, "daaaad the kids channel!", she whined. "wait a minute darling dad has to see this first", he said, turning the volume up.

"news update on the recent jeonju massacre with 178 were killed last night", his breath hitched at the news. "there had been countless unidentified victims now up for claiming at the morgue", it continued.

"among the casualties were several civilians reportedly attempting to flee the city without proper identification. authorities claim they failed to stop at a checkpoint despite warning shots.”

a rolling shot of names appeared on the screen, those who were killed while trying to escape.

'hwang dalmi

yoon jeonghan

kim yuseok

lee seokmin

boo seungkwan

lee [yn]'

"that's all for todays news, we'll keep you updated"

[dkiove]

EVERY FIVE YEARS, kwon soonyoung.

plot: your ex boyfriend, who left you five years ago, came back all of a sudden. will love persevere even through betrayal and longing?

warnings: none?, cursing, not a very happy ending but it is a happy ending, long-ish

genre: angst, exes

character: kwon soonyoung x reader

“i thought you diedˮ

“why would you think that?ˮ

“after what you did, might as well have diedˮ

you couldnʼt believe it.

five seconds ago, you were cleaning tables and mopping floors— but now, youʼre face-to-face with kwon soonyoung.

“you havenʼt changed a bit, still fiesty ,ˮ he laughs, taking a sip of the coffee you brewed for him.

“neither have you, youʼre still a shameless bastard ,ˮ you spat back, unwavered by his presence— like you should be.

“letʼs skip this part— how have you been? ,ˮ soonyoung waves his hand up in the air, cutting the thick tension of relentless banterings. your eyes flicker at his question; how have you been? coming from him?

five years ago, you were okay; everything was okay.

a smart psychology student whose future is so bright is in a five year relationship with a handsome and kind engineering student who has a place in your family.

but one afternoon, in the place where you both had confessed to each other— kwon soonyoung called it quits. he said itʼs a, ‘its not you, its meʼ situation. then he moved out of the peaceful jeju to face his future in the bustling city of seoul. now after five years, heʼs here again.

“you asshole, how dare you ask me that question ,ˮ soonyoungʼs eyes widened at your rebutt.

“how dare you show your face to me after five years, to ask me how iʼve been ,ˮ you stood up from your chair, fist clenching in frustration and annoyance.

his eyes fixiated on the table in front of you both, a sigh escapes his mouth.

“tell me, why did you come back? ,ˮ you ask— not pleading, nor begging, it was a demand.

“i miss you, [yn]. i missed you so muchˮ

---

“HE MISSED YOU!ˮ

your bestfriend, seokmin, cheers. his voice rang in your ear as he pounced to the foot of your bed— body shaking like a worm. you rolled your eyes and turned to face the wall, forcibly covering your ears with your pillow.

after soonyoungʼs stunt earlier, you left the table and locked yourself in the cafeʼs breakroom. after a few moments, your coworker signalled you that he left.

now youʼre in your dorm room, sharing the story to seokmin— to which you deeply regret now. he was your sidekick; and he was the captain of you and soonyoungʼs love story. the break up tore his heart away, but this sign of reconciliation is apology enough to keep supporting the couple whom he wished had gotten married already.

“kwon soonyoung— heʼs still charming as ever ,ˮ seokmin chuckled. you felt the weight of his body shift, now presumably laying beside you.

“[yn], why are you so tense? ,ˮ he teased as you felt a finger poke your side.

“i get it! you probably miss him too thatʼs why youʼre acting like that! ,ˮ he announces all of a sudden, making you bolt and face him with an angry look.

“I DON’T MISS HIM! ,ˮ you yell. seokmin chuckles at your response and sits back up,

“really? ,ˮ his eyes darted at yours.

“are you sure? for those five years that youʼve been apart— are you sure you havenʼt missed him even once? ,ˮ he questions.

“when youʼre sleeping alone and the room is crazy cold, donʼt you miss his arms wrapping around you like he did before? ,ˮ you knew what he was doing— and you know he isnʼt gonna stop.

“when youʼre having a lonely loser dinner outside to ‘treat’ yourself, are you sure you didnʼt imagine him sitting in front of you and feeding you a bite of the dish?”

“when youʼre at your familyʼs home, you donʼt feel conflicted when your mother looks for him?”

“when walking to the place where you had confessed to each other, you donʼt wish for him to just show up all of a sudden and sweep you off your feet?”

“when youʼre having trouble memor-” — you slap your hand at his mouth, seokminʼs eyes widened at your sudden action.

“i-iʼll be back ,ˮ you tremble, climbing out of bed and running out the door of your shared dorm.

“YOUʼRE GONNA RUN TO SOONYOUNG ARENʼT YOU?”

---

you did not in fact run to soonyoung, wherever he might be. instead, you found yourself at the nearest convenience store near your dormitory. you stand outside, squatting in front of the store, hands on your head as you desperately try to get rid of seokminʼs interrogation out of your mind.

“no, no, no [yn]— donʼt listen to him ,ˮ you slap yourself lightly, trying to focus on the ‘nowʼ than dwell on the past that has left you behind.

you did it once, you can do it again. forget kwon soonyoung and just continue. his presence doesnʼt mean a thing— he might be back but not in your life. sooner or later, he will leave again and you will wish that you wonʼt meet him anymore. it all spirals in your head— the mind is certain, but the heart ever so conflicted.

“you look troubled,ˮ a voice speaks beside you. you look up to see him— soonyoung, smiling lightly.

“care for a drink? ,ˮ he lends you your favorite drink— an invitation.

“no,ˮ you shake your head, a familiar lump on your throat as you stood up from your position and run away.

“[yn]! ,̓ he yells from where you had left him. but despite his efforts to call your attention, you began disappearing from his sight.

good! right?

---

you werenʼt even certain if it was him that talked to you, but it sure did feel like it. you ran back to your dorm, breaking down in front of seokmin whose teasing smile turned to a concerned demeanor when he saw you.

it rained afterwards, hard pouring rain that knocked on your window. now you sit on the floor with seokmin, can of beers in your hand as you rest your head on his shoulder. despite seokminʼs humoric attitude, he was there for you all those times— and youʼre glad.

“the rain is really daunting on you,ˮ he chuckles, taking a sip of the beer can that occupied his hands.

“really? ,ˮ you say, crying was evident from your voice.

“you know, when you told me that soonyoung and you broke up— a part of me was happy ,ˮ he says, catching you off-guard.

you fix yourself up from your position, straightening up and turning towards him; invited him to continue his words.

“in my mind, you were blessed with a life that is going well— you needed something to toughen you up ,ˮ his lips pursed a smile.

“for the past five years, iʼve seen you get hurt and hurt again then smile again then hurt again ,ˮ he reminisces, fingers drawing figures on the wooden floor.

“life really had its way on telling you when to go and when to stay ,ˮ he says, almost in a whisper.

your heart ached, bowing your head down and letting out a sigh,

“it made me think, if i was the only sincere one during our relationship ,ˮ you reply followed by a forced chuckle.

“if the years we had spent together was all in my head— that it never happened in the first place ,ˮ

seokmin shook his head at what you said, lifting your face to meet his.

“it did happen [yn], in those two five years with and without him— it did happenˮ

---

the cafe wasnʼt exactly that crowded today thanks to the cold weather. no one really craved a cold drink nor had the guts to get out of their homes to grab a warm cup of coffee they could make in just three minutes.

on this day, your morning shift had ended— giving you a positive feeling that you can study for your licensure exam for the rest of the day. the stoplight was still green, the cars drove past you and into their own ways; you remained at the other side of the sidewalk.

“[yn] ,ˮ a soft voice called out to you. confused, you turned to your side to see soonyoung— standing there and looking at you.

“can we talk?ˮ

---

dongmun.

dongmun is the place. whether the loud market enticed you or the quiet walkways seduced you—dongmun was that place for you and soonyoung.

few steps from the market there is a small area where you can sit, have picnics, walk your dog, or jog. years ago, this is where student you and student soonyoung confessed to each other— young and longing.

now, it is night; and dongmun got you both wrapped around its fingers.

you dont sit at ‘your’ bench as lovers. you sit and ponder as exes. not a psychology student nor an engineering student— now as a struggling cafe worker who has failed the licensure exam for many tries and a college dropout who sought out seoul as a ticket to a greater life.

“what did you want to talk about ,ˮ you said flatly, breaking the silence that had been occurring for ten minutes now. despite the small benches, there was distance between you two. it wasnʼt just intentional— it was needed.

“[yn] i’m sorry ,ˮ he said, antsy palms running up and down his trousers to soothe himself from the cold weather.

“what for? ,ˮ you replied, avoiding eye contact.

“for everything. for breaking up with you. for coming back. and for leaving youˮ

“why? ,ˮ you asked.

“i didn’t know, i wasn—ˮ you cut him off—

“why did you come back?ˮ

at this point, you both had made eye contact. one was desperate for answers while one was apologetic and lost.

“i came back, because i wanted to know if you’re still here ,ˮ soonyoung replied calmly, feeling satisfied with his answer.

a sigh escapes through your nose as you clasp your hands together,

“well iʼm here so question answered, goodbye ,ˮ you said, motioning to stand up but his hand pulls on your jacket.

“i missed you— i didn’t just come back to jeju, i want to come back to youˮ

you chuckle sarcastically. it was unbelievable and you arenʼt naive to just fall for his words right away.

“soonyoung, shut up ,ˮ you say, forced smile falls on your lips; ready to turn all of this into a joke.

“i’m serious ,ˮ he replies.

“five years ago i had to make a decision. i was an engineering student for godsakes, you think i just wanted to throw all of it away?ˮ soonyoung says.

“i didn’t want to stay here and work a 9–5 job in an office— but you wanted to stay hereˮ

“i asked you right? if you were okay that we run away and go to seoul. i told you that our lives will be much more fruitful there ,ˮ he faces you.

“but you said you didn’t want to because jeju is your life— this is your life right here ,ˮ his arms stretch out, like he was encapsulating jeju to the width of his hands.

“so thatʼs why you broke up with me? because i didn’t want to go with you to seoul? ,ˮ you nodded in disbelief,

“all of that because you didn’t have it your way!ˮ

“i broke up with you because it was obvious that you didn’t see a life with me!ˮ he spat back, voice louder than yours.

“i asked you so many times if you had any plans for the both of us but you kept shutting me off! ,ˮ soonyoung added, his tone breaking.

“you don’t remember? i asked if you wanted to get married after we both graduate and you said that you don’t know. i asked you if you wanted to start living together as a step in our relationship and you said that you don’t know ,ˮ he rambled.

“i asked you! the night that you found out that you didn’t pass that one class, that if you still love me! and what did you say? you said i don’t knowˮ

it all felt like a stab in your heart. It was true— you didn’t see a future within yourself, nor did you see a future with him. you were a college student with lots of dreams in a town that congratulated tradition and a family that fears separation.

when soonyoung mentioned seoul, it felt like a step away from your plans. the future was uncertain; it wasn’t clear. and you feared uncertainties— but you didn’t realize that it was not just you having to face those risky chances, soonyoung was waiting too.

“okay! i was a bad girlfriend and a bad person to you so why did you come back!ˮ you screamed.

“because i thought that you changed your mind ,ˮ he replied. not in a scream, a yell, or an angry voice— it was hopeful, assuring, and hurt.

“i thought that you figured out what you wanted. that you did want to be with me and you want to go with me and face whatever it is that you fear ,ˮ he said, almost in a whisper.

“i know i ended things between us but i wasn’t the one that walked away easily— i said the words but you were the one that left quickly ,ˮ he remembers it like it happened yesterday. moments after explaining his reasons, you didn’t even bat an eye and just walked away.

soonyoung waited on that same spot— hoping that you had realized what you agreed upon to. he waited in hopes that you would run up to him and assure him, but it never happened.

“those five years weren’t easy for me as well...ˮ soonyoung had his head down, hands gripping and running through his hair like soothing a lifelong headache.

“i didn’t know what i was gonna do there. i dropped out of college, i worked two jobs everyday, all i ate was nothing but noodles, i was all aloneˮ

“so that was your plan? for me too? ,ˮ you said.

“you wanted me to go with you so we can both waste our time, starve, and work ourselves to death?ˮ

“no— maybe— but i know that if i had gone to seoul with you, i would be the one starving ,ˮ he looked up,

“i would drop out of school so you can focus, i could work all the jobs in the world so you would have something to eat every day, and that i wouldn’t be alone because i would have had youˮ

you teared up from what he said— fist clenching to somewhat fight back the growing pain that rested inside of you.

“i’m sorry, i shouldn’t have come back ,ˮ soonyoung stands up, fixing the ends of his coat.

“don’t worry, you won’t see me anymore ,ˮ he smiled.

and with that he left— in the place, all over again like five years ago.

---

the next day felt like a hangover.

your head was all over the place, your emotions too. seokmin made sure to comfort you before he had left to go work his tour guide job— but it wasn’t enough.

your day was the same as yesterday. serving customers (hoping that one of them would be familiar), cleaning tables and mopping the floors, and waiting for soonyoung.

his words haunted you. it felt like you weren’t gonna see him ever again— and that scared you. because despite the curse and the hurt that he had put on your life, there was still love for him that never went away.

“please be careful it’s very hot,ˮ you smiled to the customer. her glasses illuminated from the seeping sunlight that entered the glass-walled store. you squint and tried to avoid its beam, turning your head to look out the window.

your breath hitched upon the sight of something— someone.

it was soonyoung. hand on a duffle bag, standing at the bus stop on the other end of the street. you found yourself rushing, running even; just to get to him. it didn’t occur to you what to say or how the conversation was gonna be— but you wanted to get to him.

his back was turned on you, his head facing left to right as he awaits for the bus.

“kwon soonyoung ,ˮ you called out softly, earning his attention as he turned around confused.

“[yn]? ,ˮ he said.

“is this what you mean? you’re leaving again? ,ˮ you said, inching closer to him.

he sighed,

“i have to go back to seoul— my work leave isn’t a whole week long ,ˮ he chuckled.

“soonyoung...ˮ , you said.

“it’s okay ,ˮ he smiled, “it’s all okayˮ

your feet stopped you from getting closer to him. as the city walked by both of you, you remained still.

“i understand already— we both have different paths in our lives ,ˮ soonyoung held out his fingers, in a ‘okay’ sign.

“i came back here in hopes that i can bring you with me to my world, i didn’t realize that you have already built yours all along ,ˮ you felt a familiar pit in your stomach rushing in,

“it’s okay [yn]— live your life fruitfully. you will starve if you go with meˮ

a bus stops behind him, “seoul ,ˮ it said in the dashboard.

“that’s my ride ,ˮ he said awkwardly. he was waiting— waiting that you would rush to him and prevent him from leaving, but it will never happen.

“i’ll see you ,ˮ he waves before turning around to board the bus.

“SOONYOUNG! ,ˮ you call out. he whips his head softly.

“see you as well ,ˮ you said, waving at him happily despite the tears glistening in your eyes.

he didn’t say anything but smile. hurt, but smiled as he steps inside the bus.

soonyoung had left, again— like he always do.

---

the dorm room you shared with a loud seokmin will be empty and silent, you thought. considering that he already left a text saying that he will be back tomorrow in the morning— you will anticipate a long night crying.

juggling the keys to the front door, an envelope catches your eyes; pink and left on the floor. with a furrowed brow, you come and pick it up. it must be from the electricity office, you thought.

“to [yn]..ˮ , written on the front.

confused, you ripped the envelope open to see a letter. you opened it to reveal a long paper with a familiar handwriting... soonyoung...

with wide eyes, you read the first part—

---

“to [yn],

i don’t know if youʼll be able to see this message— i don’t know if seokmin had given me the right room number. but if it’s you then i’m happy :). i know that we wouldn’t be able to talk properly. the pain might be too much for the both of us so i’m just gonna do it all in this letter.

[yn] i’m sorry, i’m very sorry. for leaving you and coming back all of a sudden. the truth is... i thought that you would give me a reason to stay, but i didn’t realize that not all love stories end with a happy ending. when we were together, i was happy— very happy. you were happy with me too right? if not, then i’m sorry.

for you, i’m a very shameful man. for the five years that we were apart, i had always thought that i’m a shameless man. didn’t you see me? on your graduation? haven’t you noticed me? the second customer you had on your first day at work? the guy who lent you a pen when you were studying in the library? for all those times that i came back, i wanted to talk to you— but i know that you didn’t want anything to do with me.

but over the time i realized that i couldn’t stay hidden anymore. but when i did show up, it didn’t work out the way i expected to— and it was all my fault.

i’m going back to seoul now. to work my two jobs with my minimum salary, go home to my small apartment with a broken toilet, starve once again— but during those few moments that i have seen you, i will be happy sleeping tonight.

thank you for everything. i hope that things work out for you. i will pray extra hard that you pass your licensure exam and be who you want to be.

[yn]... if i came back after another five years... what will our lives be? i know you will say ‘i don’t know’ again so the joke’s on me.

goodbye :) see you, after another five years.

see you maybe tomorrow [yn]— whom i left five years ago.

from soonyoung.

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