!!! UNDER CONSTRUCTION - NEW MASTERLIST COMING SOON !!!
So this is a masterlist of all of my self-indulgent writing (when I actually decide to post lol). If I write a new fanfiction, expect it to appear here!
Genres
Fluff - 🌸
Angst - 🌙
Headcannons/Bulletpoints - 💧
I don’t write smut !!
Treasure
Skater - Watanabe Haruto x reader 🌸
Nice Boys - Takata Mashiho x reader 🌸🌙
Headache - Bang Yedam x reader 🌸
Scary! - Bang Yedam x reader 🌸🌙
Treasure as Greek Gods/Demigods! 💧
Ateez
Perfection - Choi San x reader 🌸
Water Park - ot8 x reader (platonic) 🌸
Land of the Free - Song Mingi x reader part I part II 🌸🌙
୨୧ fem presenting!reader x bf!park sunghoon | ren says... i love him way too much oops | library
--
park sunghoon come homes to find you and a small bundle also napping on your chest. its ears twitch at the sound of the door opening, and its hazel eyes lock with your boyfriend's.
a cat.
you got a cat.
he wants to be just a little worried about your impulses- ‘what about the litter? will he be happy by himself while you’re both at work? what about the cat hair? is he safe to be around at all??’ but he can’t help melting when the black cat curls back into a ball and you nestle closer, a hand subconsciously coming up to hold him.
park sunghoon is not freaking out. a cat is fine. (he’s freaking out.)
a cat is fine- until one day, sunghoon finds himself with a strange emotion in his chest.
that should be me.
and immediately, he knows he’s just a bit jealous. he’s jealous that whenever you get off work, you get cat treats and toys and buy new structures for the boy to play with and sleep on. your shared apartment is littered with cat related products. hell, you convinced him to get a roomba to vacuum the hair that your new roommate sheds, and he sighs when thinking about the money he spent buying wet cat food just last week.
even sunghoon feels like he third wheels. and that doesn’t leave him sad, or angry, or any negative emotions, but he’s almost embarrassed to be competing against a cat for his girlfriend’s affection.
one day, you’re doing errands. perfect timing.
“listen you runt.” sunghoon sits the furry menace on the bed, not paying any mind to how silly he looks reprimanding a pet twenty times smaller than him. “she’s my girlfriend. you haven’t taken her out on dates, you haven’t kissed her, you haven’t done anything to get as much love as i do. so you better know your place.” and you can’t help but laugh from the doorway of your bedroom at the sight of park sunghoon fighting a 5 month old cat for his girl.
needless to say, the cat still stays, and your boyfriend seems to have gotten a bit clingy whenever the two are around each other.
"how'd you get your cat?" it’s a good story to tell at dinner.
--
reblogs + interactions are appreciated! also no idc that i have 2 cat fics back to back if ur a cat hater leave 😅🫵
I don't think it's infantilizing to headcanon an autistic character as asexual especially since there are many autistic asexuals and a lot of them may see themselves in these characters. What should raise an eyebrow is when they get the "precious innocent baby cinnamon roll who doesn't know what sex is" treatment cause if I'm being completely honest that characterization is offensive to both autistic and asexual people
the premise : u apply lipgloss on felix because ofc he suits glossy lips except it takes an emotional turn???? because felix is perfect sorry. this is fluffyyyy and the sanest reaction to this man being ur bf (and these pics. these pics....)
“lixie, stay still,” you giggle, body nestled between felix’s legs. He's leaning against the bathroom counter, hands propped on the sleek ebony marble as you apply a shimmering lip gloss to his lips.
“but don't you wanna know what changbin said to me?”
“of course i wanna know what creative pickup line he used on you today. of course i do, baby,” you smile and he rolls his eyes at the sarcasm dripping from your tone, his tongue poking against his cheek before gliding in (fake) annoyance over his lips.
“but…” he muses, tilting his head to the side, his hands finding your waist once again (they've been away for two minutes too long).
“but when your mouth moves i can't technically apply lipgloss to it.”
“maybe you're just a bad make-up artist,” he teases, before quickly planting a kiss on your temple. “kidding baby. you're the very best at everything you do.”
“you're actually incapable of being mean,” you laugh heartily, your thumb swiping across his chiseled jaw.
“i am very much capable of being mean,” he pouts, his eyes widening slightly, golden light spilling into his pupils— it refracts into an arrow delving straight into your heart.
“you can't say this in the softest voice and expect me to agree.”
“i am very much capable of being mean,” he repeats, only this time his timber is many many octaves lower. his voice reverberates straight through your stomach, a deep melody orchestrating the untamed butterflies in your stomach.
“this is the equivalent of a kitten throwing a punch to me,” you pull his face closer, and he shakes his head, mouth shut tightly as you reapply the glitter infused gloss on his lips, going delicately over his cupid's bow. his eyes are boring onto you, yet you don't shy away from his gaze. it is a kind one— like a blanket knitted with love thrown over your body.
“done,” you whisper, hands trailing up to his hair, blonde silky locks akin to threads of sunlight. you think he must be favored by the stars— how they stored the sun inside every component of his being for him to keep safe.
“you have the prettiest lips,” your voice is suddenly hoarse, thumb grazing slightly over his lips, ones shaped like a heart— akin to the one freckle he has right underneath his eye.
it wasn't enough for him to have the kindest soul, no, love needed to be etched onto his skin too.
“felix,” you rasp out his name.
he catches your tears before you sense them falling, swiping his thumbs delicately on your cheek. “angel?”
“you're an idiot.”
“am i?” he brings you to his chest swiftly, your nose buried in the orange blossoms and sea notes of his skin— your home, the one you'd recognize in blindness, in despair, in safety, in love.
“i wanted to apply this lipgloss on you because shimmer would suit your angelic lips and then we'd make out. but you just had to be so beautiful and pure that it makes me wanna cry.”
“I'm sorry,” he says and you giggle, more tears spilling from your eyes.
“see, this is what i mean. why are you apologizing. this is so silly and you're so perfect and i can't believe you love me.”
“well i do,” he leans away, kissing your forehead tenderly. the sticky lip gloss lingers on your skin. “i love you so much, angel. i will only ever love you.”
“promise me?” you ask in a feat of vulnerability almost foreign to your being.
“i promise.”
you believe him.
“thank you. please don't put this lipgloss near anyone else or it'll make them cry too.”
“i think that's just you baby,” he grins, his thumb swiping over your thigh comfortingly, then, his nose brushing against your own. “kiss?”
you close your eyes, a sigh of relief, of longing escaping your body. “please.”
to be loved by felix— maybe you're the one favored by the stars after all.
Sometimes I look at my unfinished drafts and think about just posting them anyways
like, some of them are from LITERAL YEARS AGO and I haven't touched them since creating them so they'll never get finished and have no chance of seeing the light of day unless I just post the random unfinished blurbs with cliffhangers.
People treat Chris like a legit therapist forgetting that he's just a normal 26 year old man going through shit too ... yes he always tries to help everyone but it is so unfair that people think it's okay to project all of their issues onto him and then blame him when things go wrong in their lives or when something he said triggers them. He doesn't know you personally and he doesn't know what triggers you. It's unfair to expect him to walk on eggshells around FANS just because they have insanely high expectations of him and forget that he's also human.
You can't expect him to coddle you through your life. At some point you have to take responsibility of your own issues and work through them yourself. No one can do that for you, that's something you have to do alone, and it's the same for anyone regardless of who you are. Yes he provides comfort to a lot of people but you have to stop pushing the boundaries the way you all are - he feels things too. You're not the only one going through things. Maybe think about how he might be feeling once in a while instead of being angry that he was "taken away" from you.
Chan Chan Chan Chan Chan Bang Chan Christopher Bang Mr Bang Chan Channie Chan CHAN CHANNNN omg Bin? Seo Changbin?? The most precious man on earth Changbin!! Binnie !!! Oh but Minho… Jisung…. Minsung omg I love them- also Hyun. And! And! Seungmin too!! 148 frfr WAIT ALSO JEONGIN HELLO??????
<Felix3 lixie~
…
C H A N M Y B E L O V E D bangchanbangchanbangchanbangchanbangchanbangchanbangchanbang-
A/N: Okay so I’m back by popular demand because I LOVE LEE FELIX AND SO DO YALL!!! Anyways, doing this part in bullet points too, so sorry if you were expecting me to make an actual well written fic cause this is not it. As usual, forgive any spelling errors, I ALWAYS miss some on my proof reading cause my word vomit is insane. Anyways, enjoy!
Part I Part II
Warning(s): alcohol, swearing, also some talk about death, but that’s about it. Reader has the title of wife.
HES SO !!!
It was late autumn when you brought the idea up to Felix about getting a bar-hand for the Tavern.
With the weather getting colder, people were more likely to want a hot meal with their drink, which meant that Felix was getting a bit too busy managing both the kitchen and the bar by himself.
And with you serving the tables, keeping track of all the payments, and dealing with the inn residency, you were too busy to pick up his slack.
Felix knew this.
it made logical sense
but it made him anxious to no end...
“My Love, I understand. But we can’t trust anyone.” He said with a frown. You nodded along, wiping the bartop with a rag. When you looked up at your husband, you mirrored his frown.
“I know. That’s why we don’t tell them anything.” You countered, tossing your rag in the sink. You then went around to the tables and began removing the chairs from the top of them, tucking them in their rightful spot underneath.
You were to open for the evening soon, so Felix began to help you prepare by taking chairs off the tables and putting them in their places as well.
“They won’t need to know anything besides we own a tavern and an inn, and that we need their help.” You hummed, dusting off your hands on your thighs and returning to the bar, where Felix was removing the final stool.
You looped your arms around his waist and pulled him closer to you. He gazed into your eyes and you swore you still got butterflies when he stared.
“We need the help, Dear.” You whispered, focusing more on the beating of your lover’s heart than the actual conversation
and with the way Felix was gazing at your lips, it seems like he wasn’t too focused on the conversation anymore either.
“I know we do.” He sighed in defeat, before letting his heart take over and place a kiss on your lips.
When you parted, you smiled at him
You’ll never get used to the feeling of kissing Felix
it always gave you this light, airy feeling in your chest.
Pushing off him, you went back to work, not before placing one last peck on his cheek.
“I’ll post a notice by the door.” You hummed, taking the clean cups from where you left them to dry and hang them on the wine track above the bar
That night, you got a few inquiries about the job, but nobody who seemed truly interested.
But your saving grace came through the door well into the evening.
Hwang Hyunjin.
He was an occasional visitor at your little tavern, opting to come once or twice a week to have a drink and then go off to wherever he went
you honestly didn’t know what he did at night after his visit at the bar.
nor did you think it was you place to ask
none of your business, you supposed
but he always ordered the same thing; red wine and some fresh bread.
all you knew about him was he was a hunter.
Well, you assumed he was a hunter
He would tell stories of being out in the wild woods, how beautiful the world looked from under the green canopies with nothing but the grass under your feet, wind against your skin and the moon in the sky
You liked Hyunjin.
He was always very kind to you and Felix while being at the bar
as well as respected other patrons
not to mention, he never asked questions about your personal life
he only ever asked about what your plans for the future were and stories from the days he didn’t come in
Felix liked Hyunjin too.
He made sure to compliment Felix’s cooking and always left a bit of a tip ‘for excellent company and even more excellent food’
Hyunjin was a good guy in Felix’s mind, no matter what the other patrons said.
some thought he was odd because he preferred to be alone and was very private, but that never really bothered Felix
Hyunjin was nice to him and you
always was.
“Why hello stranger!” You joked, serving the man at his usual table near the back of the tavern
it was closest to the area you had musicians come perform.
Hyunjin always enjoyed the music when he came in
“The usual I presume?” You asked, to which Hyunjin nodded, with a smile.
You returned quickly with his usual order, setting the glass of wine down carefully
Felix liked to fill it to the brim when it was for Hyunjin
“What’s new?” Hyunjin asked, taking a sip from his full glass. You tucked the serving tray you had under your arm before shifting your weight more comfortably on your feet.
“Nothing much. Winter is coming soon, so we’ll have to start preparing the inn for that.” You hummed, letting a humorous grin play on your features as an image popped into you head, “I’ll have to get Felix to start chopping fire wood.”
“I think that is much more of a job for you, not him” Hyunjin laughed, taking a bite of the warm bread you had brought him, “I don’t quite peg Felix as a manual labor kind of guy...”
“You’d be surprised!” You said with a grin, “I’ll have you know, Felix worked as a farmhand for half a year to support us.”
“Now that I don’t believe!” Hyunjin chuckled, taking one more sip from his drink, “Felix is so skilled with domestic things like cooking and keeping clean, I would have never guessed.”
“I guess Felix is good at a lot of things.” You said simply, brushing a stray hair away from your face.
“Speaking of jobs, I see you’re hiring?” Hyunjin asked, nodding his head towards the door where your little parchment was hanging.
“We are.” You turned to look at the posting before smiling back at Hyunjin, “know anyone who would be interested?”
Hyunjin hummed, swirling his drink in his glass a few times before downing the remaining alcohol.
“I’d be interested.” He said, seriousness evident in his demeanor,
“that is, if you would want me?”
You perked up at the offer.
Hyunjin seemed like a good fit for the job
He was charismatic and seemed to be able to think and act quickly
not to mention both you and Felix already got along well with him and he knew the Tavern well from his visits.
“I’ll have to speak with Felix, but I think you’d be a fine fit for the position. Can you maybe come in tomorrow at noon?”
“Sounds lovely.”
“Great! Me and Felix will talk tonight and ask you some questions tomorrow, but truthfully, I don’t see why you wouldn’t be a perfect addition to our operation here.”
Hyunjin smiled with a nod, before standing and bidding you a farewell. He placed the coins he owed on the table before leaving, weaving gracefully between the tables and other patrons
Felix agreed before you even needed to explain your thoughts
If you had to get a bar-hand, Hyunjin was your best bet.
And Hyunjin enjoyed his work at your tavern
It always had felt like a second home to him
well, besides the woods of course.
He felt welcomed by you and Felix!
so spending every evening there was nice, especially now that it was getting cold outside
and he always needed to make more money so he’d be able to live.
And yes, Hyunjin made sure to never ask about your personal lives
because it was truly none of his business to ask you beyond what you were willing to share
However, he wasn’t stupid.
He wasn’t exactly sure about your past with Felix, but he tended to notice things when he would come in.
How you avoided talking about where you and Felix came from before landing in here in Miroh
or why you didn’t have any family or other friends.
or even where you got the long, silver bow that hung behind the bar.
You were good people, who never gave Hyunjin any reason to question that.
So he thought it best to just keep quiet
Working at the Tavern went much more smoothly after Hyunjin joined in
Felix mostly stayed in the kitchen now, but he also helped take a bit of the load off you too by dealing with the inn residences
and Hyunjin worked the bar well, never forgetting to serve the counter as he prepared your orders from the tables with an equal amount of quality and haste.
for months, this system worked well!
even when the dead of winter rolled around and the inn and tavern were at its all time peak in patrons due to the cold weather.
It was another night like this where the bar was packed and many people were sat and stood around the tables
You had a man singing today, his voice beautifully ringing throughout the tavern for all to hear.
You reminded Felix to make a plate up for him for when he was done his performance.
(You think he was named Seungmin? Rumor had it he was once a court musician for the Duchess of the Central Valley before he was dismissed)
You were slipping through the people, trying your best not to bump into anyone or knock your tray over when you felt it.
sharp eyes burning through you.
You made a quick glance around the room when your eyes met with a man in the corner of the room.
He was accompanied by two more men, all of which seemed to be skilled adventurers.
You kept your composure under the man’s scrutinous gaze, however you couldn’t help the sick feeling in your stomach.
You looked away, turning and standing at the bar. You placed your tray down for Hyunjin to put your order on it.
“Jin,” You called, earning a hum form the man behind the bar, “That group in the back. Who are they?”
Hyunjin let his eyes float to the table you were referencing before slightly frowning at you.
“Travelers. I’ve only heard passing whispers about them, but they are known around these parts as 3racha.”
“And?”
“All I know about them is that they often take many quests and wander the lands slaying monsters.”
“Hmm. Thank you.”
You took a deep breath, trying to shake the nerves you felt from being so close to adventurers.
it was the first time you’d ever encountered bounty hunters, and it scared you shitless.
Approaching their table, you put on the brightest smile you could as your eyes locked onto the one who wouldn’t stop staring
A stoic looking fellow with a fur cloak draped across his broad frame.
to his left, a shorter, stronger man holding a large claymore and a nasty look.
and his right was a pretty, squirrelly man that you could feel had this aura of magic surrounding him
You could tell they were strong just from the atmosphere they created around them
“Hello gentlemen, what can I do for you this evening?” You said, tone even.
You weren’t even sure if they were here for you, but you felt defensive nonetheless
The man with the cloak hummed, eyes not breaking contact with yours
“We hear you are famous for your baked goods.” He spoke confidently, voice coming out with an accent, “What would you suggest?”
“My husband spent all morning baking cranberry tarts.” You said, tucking a stray hair behind your ear as you smiled softly, “I would recommend that. We also have a fine selection of beverages if you feel so inclined.”
“Your husband?” The Big man asked, digging the tip of his claymore into the wood of the floor, before he looked up at you, “You mean the man behind the bar?”
“No, that is our bar-hand.” You answered simply, before quipping back, “Why do you ask? Perhaps you have an interest in him? I can introduce you, if you’d like.”
Pretty man let out a chuckle at your joke, before trying to cover it with a cough. Big man’s face heated up in what you could only assume was embarrassment or irritation, before your attention was directed back to the man in the cloak.
You blinked innocently at him, holding your tray limply at your side.
You felt like you were on trial as he stared at you. The tension seemed thick before he cleared his throat and grinned.
It made you feel even more unsettled...
“Tarts sound wonderful. We’ll take three.” He spoke politely, to which you nodded and retreated behind the bar into the kitchen for the pastries.
Felix was working there, washing dishes and humming a tune to himself with a small smile on his face.
It made you happy to see him so carefree.
You came up behind him, wrapping your arms around your husband’s torso.
You could feel the beating of your heart in your throat, and for once it wasn’t from Felix...
“Hey Love.” He cheered, turning his head to be able to place a chaste kiss on your lips, “Busy night, huh?”
“Very.” You chuckled breathlessly, trying not to let the sickness pooling in your stomach read on your face.
You didn’t want to worry Felix with the trouble of 3racha
As much as you loved Felix’s emotional side, it was sometimes a curse.
one that you didn’t need right now when you were barely holding on yourself.
besides, you weren’t even sure if it was trouble yet.
it could be just a feeling of unease and paranoia getting the better of you...
“I’m here for the tarts, A table just ordered some.” You said as nonchalantly as possible.
Felix beamed, eyes lighting up upon hearing that someone wanted to eat his baking.
as if it wasn’t a normal occurrence for people to ask specifically for Felix’s food
“Ask them how it tastes.” He said excitedly, drying his hands on the towel near the sink before helping placing some on a plate and hand them to you, “I tried a new recipe and I need to know if its good.”
“Will do, Dear.” You said with a smile. You eyes fell upon Felix and you felt your chest heave with anxiety and your heart squeeze with worry.
Before you could even think about it, you set the tray down on the counter and wrapped your arms tightly around your husband
Even though he was confused on why you hugged him unprompted, he didn’t hesitate to hug you back, holding you close to him.
you stayed like that for a moment, taking in his scent before sighing.
“I love you so much, you know.” You whispered dreamily, causing Felix to squeeze your body tighter.
“I love you too.” He replied, and you could hear the grin in his voice, making you grin too. When you finally let him go, you placed one more kiss on his soft lips, letting it fuel you enough to go back out there and face whatever was in store for you.
And when you did return to the table, placing the tarts on the wooden surface gently, you willed yourself to be calm and to appear as cheerful as possible
even if your instincts were screaming.
“Thank you, Darling.” The man in the cloak said with a smile. The name sounded like poison coming from his lips and you resisted the urge to grimace.
“Is that all for you, gentlemen?” You asked sweetly, hoping to be done with this interaction and get back to work.
You were sure this feeling was just paranoia and you were overreacting
yes, this must all be a misunderstanding and-
“Actually I have a few questions for you, if you don’t mind.” The man with the cloak answered seriously; Big man and Pretty man were much to busy eating to even speak, which would have been kinda endearing if you weren’t sick to your stomach.
“What can I help you with?” You asked, cringing at the fact that your tone came out a bit more shaky than intended
“I’ll be straight with you, we are adventurers. And we have come to these lands on a quest.”
“ah, I see...”
“Looking for the kidnapped prince from Clé. I’m sure you’ve heard of him by now?”
You felt your heart drop to your stomach as you nodded along to the man’s words. You felt a burning in your throat and you could barely trust yourself to be able to speak.
“Rumor has it, he is being hid away somewhere in this area.” The man in the cloak watched you intently, a wicked grin adorning his features, “You wouldn’t happen to know about that, would you?”
His associates stopped eating for a moment, gazing up at you.
You felt like you were suffocating in this moment.
Like you were drowning, everything around you slowed and you took a breath, hopefully to steady yourself enough before replying.
“I don’t, sorry.” You said weakly, feeling like a mouse caught in a trap.
“Now, we all know that’s not true, (Y/N).” The cloaked man said bluntly, leaning his elbows on the table and tilting his head slightly.
You stared back at him helplessly, feeling like you were an inch tall under the man’s gaze.
He knew you.
He knew your name.
It was like someone pumped your body with lead as you stood staring at the man.
“Y’know, these tarts are very good. I’d love to tell your husband myself how good they are.” The Pretty man hummed, batting his eyelashes at you tauntingly, “What did you say his name was?”
“Felix. His name is Felix.” You said firmly, willing all the strength you have in your body to standing upright.
“How much would you bet that your husband bares a resemblance to Prince Yongbok, hm?” The Big man asked, before pulling out a parchment with a portrait on it. You glanced down and immediately recognized it as Felix on the painting of the royal family that was in the dinning room of the castle.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about. My husband isn’t the prince.” You said weakly, clearing your throat, earning a grimace from the cloaked man in front of you.
“If there is one thing I hate more than kidnappers,” He growled, gaze cold, “It’s kidnappers who lie.”
You could see out of your peripheral Big man grip his claymore as if he was ready to draw it on you.
You didn’t want to start a fight in the tavern while it was full and busy
but you were damn sure not going to let these men ruin everything you and Felix built.
so you did the only thing you could in the moment.
“I don’t lie.” You explained stiffly, narrowing your eyes at the men, “If anything, whatever you’ve heard about that situation is the lie.”
You were hoping to buy yourself some time to think of a way to defuse the situation
perhaps even lead the men outside for a confrontation instead?
That didn’t seem like an option when the man in the cloak chuckled, clearly irritated by your words. He moved his cloak out of the way to reveal the shiny steel of a sword hilt.
but before he could say another word, you felt a warm hand wrap around your shoulder.
Hyunjin.
Your beam of light in the darkness.
“Hey fellas, what seems to be the problem here?” He spoke smoothly, expression light as he held you firmly.
“Nothing.” The cloaked man said, before smiling at Hyunjin. He readjusted his cloak to cover his sword back up, “Just enjoying these lovely cranberry tarts and wanting to tell the chef.”
“Oh, he’s very busy tonight,” Hyunjin chuckled, gesturing around the room before landing his eyes back on the three men at the table, “My dear master here will be sure to tell the chef you enjoyed them though, don’t worry!”
“Splendid.” The man with the cloak said, features bright as his gaze still bore into you face.
You couldn’t help the uneasiness you felt, but with Hyunjin there you knew it wold be okay for now.
“Is that all? My master has many patrons to attend to.” Hyunjin asked with ease. You were almost in awe at how he seemed so unshaken and was so easily able to release all the tension in the air.
“erm.... well...” The man in the cloak mumbled before Pretty man’s face lit up.
“Indeed!” He cheered, glancing between you and Hyunjin, “We require a room to stay in.”
“Excellent.” Hyunjin hummed with a bow, before gesturing to you, “my master will go prepare your key and room for you, if you’ll wait here.”
He quickly sent you away, not without a look of worry that you dismissed with a nod and a weak smile.
You hoped that your expression conveyed how grateful you were to Hyunjin
Because the moment you got to the back to grab a key, you took a sigh of relief.
You were okay for now, but you knew this was just prolonging the inevitable.
so when you closed up for the night and laid down in your room to sleep, you didn’t forget to put the long, silver dagger you owned between your mattress and the frame; hilt out for quick access.
And while Felix failed to notice this, he didn’t fail to notice how on edge you were.
He stripped from his work pants, eyeing you anxiously fiddling with the sheets below you and staring off into space.
“What has you so troubled, My Love?” Felix asked softly, folding his work clothes and placing them on a chair across the room.
“Hm?” You looked up at Felix’s broad back before he turned to face you, eyes soft and face gentle, “Nothing.”
Felix hummed disapprovingly, walking to where you sat on the bed and knelt in front of you.
He laced his hands with yours, studying your face before placing a kiss to your knuckles.
“You can tell me anything, you know?” Felix said
“I know.”
“Then tell me, what is on your mind?”
“I guess it’s just...” You start. You look into Felix’s eyes and feel a sense of warmth.
He always brought you comfort, his empathetic nature was one of the best parts about how in touch with his feelings he was; you always loved that about him.
“I love you so much, it’s painful sometimes.” You begin again, taking a deep breath and bringing Felix’s hand to your cheek. He reacts immediately, cupping your face gently and smoothing his thumb over your cheekbone, face full of worry.
“I’m so happy with you and we’ve worked so hard, I worry sometimes how easily it can all be taken away. How you can be taken away.” You explained, feeling the stress finally spill over as you release a few tears, “Life has no meaning without you. I just get scared sometimes it’s all going to disappear.”
Felix stands before finding his place beside you on the bed, coming so close you can feel his breath across your face.
his heart felt like it was going to explode at your words.
of course he’s had anxieties and worries too
but he’s able to get through it because you’re always there
you’re his stable rock telling him it’s okay and as long you are together, everything will be fine
so he needs to be that for you now.
“Come here, lay with me.” He suggests, pulling you down so you lay in his grasp.
he is warm under you, like the midday sun.
You can count the freckles on his beautiful faces from this distance, like stars painted on an angel.
“I know it’s scary,” Felix begins. His deep voice is resonating in his chest against your head as he smooths his hands up and down your shoulders and back soothingly,
“I love you more than words can describe, (Y/N). And I promise you, as long as I’m still living, I will do everything in my power to be with you. I’ll keep you safe and happy, until my dying breath.”
“I love you.” You confessed again in a hushed tone, nuzzling your face into his neck. Felix grinned to himself, feeling giddy as if it was the first time he’d heard you say those three magic words.
“I love you too.” He repeated, squeezing you slightly.
You laid with Felix in the dark for what seemed like and eternity, with Felix lazily stroking your back and placing soft pecks on your head before he allowed himself to slip into the sweet release of sleep.
But not you.
You stayed awake, listing to the evenness of Felix’s breathing as you relished in his hold.
it felt like the last time you’d feel it.
It was well into the twilight when he came; the man in the cloak.
He moved quietly, only the sound of his feet padding against the wooden floorboards could be heard as he entered the room
he was illuminated by the light of a single lantern, just bright enough to see your sleeping figure.
carefully, he drew his sword and placed the tip at your throat, ready to strike you where you laid.
but he hesitated when he saw Felix grasping onto you so tenderly
why would he..?
“I expected you to come.” you whispered, your bleary eyes reflecting the light of the flame. It shook the man to his core how calm you seemed
“Yet you still housed me and my party...” He said, voice low and deep. you shifted ever so slightly as not to wake Felix or be stabbed through the neck
“Give me one good reason I shouldn’t run you through.” He asked firmly, eyes cold and sharp as he stared down at your tired face.
But you had prepared.
You gracefully swing your arm up so the tip of your dagger laid at his chest. You expression showed no fear, much unlike the man’s, although he did his best to stay composed.
“You want to kill me? do it.” You said simply, pushing the blade closer to the man, “But be prepared to pay with your life.”
Just then, Felix shifted slightly and you freeze.
You would hate to wake him, even now when your life was potentially moments from ending.
The man froze in place too as Felix pulled you closer to him and took a deep breath, seemingly at ease by your presence.
This made no sense...
you sighed, removing the dagger from the man’s chest only slightly.
“Listen, if you’re going to kill me, please not here. I don’t want to wake him.” You begged quietly, eyes softening at the man in front of you.
He was still for a moment before nodding solemnly at you. He backed away enough for you to wriggle out of Felix’s grasp.
However, your movement caused your husband to stir.
“mhhmmm... where are you going, My Love?” He slurred, eyes closed and body still heavy on the bed, but clear concern in his voice.
This behavior confused the man even more as he watched you give Felix’s hand a gentle squeeze.
“Bathroom. I’ll be right back.” You lied with an endearing grin, petting his hair lovingly. The prince hummed before rolling over, facing the far wall and falling back to sleep.
You turned to the man and nodded towards the door, where you both exited.
Placing your dagger and his lantern on the bar, you pulled out two glasses from their places on the drying rack.
“What are you doing?” He asked, voice laced with an uncertainty.
“Well,” You began, grabbing a bottle of wine from behind the bar and uncorking it, “If you’re going to kill me, I’d much prefer to have a drink first, wouldn’t you? It’s on the house.”
The man stared at you for a moment before pulling a stool down and sitting at the bar, sword laying in his lap.
You silently poured the wine into the two glasses, sliding one across the bar to him.
You take a drink from your glass, feeling a sense of dread deep down in your stomach
but it was smothered but this horrifying numb feeling of the inevitability of this situation.
“Can I ask you something?” The man asked after what seemed like an eternity.
“shoot.”
“Why did you do it? Why did you kidnap the prince?”
“I told you, that’s a lie.” You swirled your drink around in your glass before taking another sip of it.
It tasted bitter as it washed down your throat, but you weren’t sure if it was truly from the alcohol or because of what this man was accusing you of.
“Then what is the truth?” The man mumbled, eyes down as he circled the rim of his glass. His lips were drawn into a thin line as you smiled weakly at his request.
“The truth is, we were in love. We are in love.” You hummed, leaning your elbows on the bartop before continuing.
“Its funny, it was actually his idea to leave, you know.”
“What happened?”
“Oh gosh, where do I even begin?”
And you told the man everything; how you began working in the castle as his courtier, how you fell in love, how he got the name Felix, the engagement, the ball, buying the tavern.
Everything.
When you finished, you downed the remainder of your drink and put the glass in the sink calmly.
The man said nothing all throughout your story, and even now he stayed silent. He stared down at the bartop, conflict running in his mind.
“You expect me to believe that?” He finally said, looking up at you. His expression was softer now, almost apologetic.
“Believe what you want.” You said with a shrug, grabbing the hilt of your dagger and holding it at your side, “But you better believe you’ll have to kill me before you are able to lay a hand on Felix. And even if you do kill me, because you know I won’t go down without a fight, good luck bringing Felix back to that wretched place in one piece. He would rather die than go back there and live as the prince.”
The man sat in silence for a moment, trying to read you; see if you have spoke any untruths.
But he couldn’t seem to find any in your tired eyes.
“You know,” The man sighed, grabbing his sword by the hilt, “I pride myself on being a man of honor. One who has a good morality and always does what’s right, no matter the consequences.”
He sheathed his sword and held his hand out for you to shake.
“I want to believe you. Based on everything you’ve said, this place, even how the pri-.... Felix was behaving, I trust you.”
You shake the man’s hand, letting out a deep breath that you didn’t know you were holding.
“Thank you.” You whispered, feeling like you were going to cry from all the tension you had stored up for the past 12 hours.
“I’ll be sure to explain to my colleagues the situation. I’m sure they’ll understand your predicament. Especially Jisung.”
You nodded, but your confusion on who that was must have read on your face because the man in front of you chuckled tiredly.
“I forgot, you don’t even know our names...” The man hummed, before grinning at you, “The name’s Chan.”
“Nice to meet you, now that you aren’t pointing a blade at my face.” You snickered, feeling relieved at the newfound ally-ship of Chan.
“I wont keep you up any longer, (Y/N).” Chan said, bowing at you. You bowed back at him, turning to retreat back to your room
back into your husbands grasp.
But you remembered something.
“Oh, one last thing!” You called back to Chan, who was already at the bottom of the stairs to go back to him room. He looked at you perplexedly, but stopped anyways to let you speak.
“Felix wanted to know how the tarts tasted? He was so happy someone ordered some.” You grinned. Chan let out a breathless laugh, the corners of his mouth curling upwards at your question.
“Tell him they were fantastic. I’m pretty sure my colleague Changbin wants some for the road.” Chan replied, showing off a set of dimples. You nodded before waving the man off, retreating back to your room.
You swore, you have never slept as good as you did that night after your encounter with Chan.
You would also occasionally see 3racha come back to your tavern time and time again
usually when they were in the area for a quest, but they never failed to spend the night and try whatever was specially made that day.
and because of them, you put up a Quest board by the door for people who had odd jobs and were looking for adventurers to complete them.
Things calmed down a bit after that
You were glad, cause it meant you got to spend much more time with Felix, which was nice.
Some nights Felix would hear a song he particularly liked and would emerge from the kitchen to pick you out of the crowd and dance with you.
You always felt happiest in those few moment holding his hands as he twirled you around and sang off key
and on the particularly cold nights, after you were all closed up for the evening,
Felix would read to you, with you snuggled up under his chin and his arms around you, illuminated only by the light of a single candlestick.
It began with simple short stories, but soon enough it became a nightly occurrence and Felix would read novels over the course of a week or two.
And when the snow eventually started to melt and spring rolled around, you would go out to the meadow just beyond the northern border of Miroh and have afternoon picnics.
Felix liked these days best.
You always looked so beautiful, basking in the warm sun while telling him about whatever juicy gossip you heard at the tavern that week.
It reminded him of the afternoons you would accompany him to the greenhouse at the castle, and how those were his favourite days back then too.
only now, you were his wife, and he was free to love you more wholeheartedly.
It was a sunny afternoon and you and Felix were simply enjoying each other’s company
he laid with his head in your lap as you talked about the newest shipment of ale you were to get tomorrow morning, your fingers mindlessly scratching at his scalp.
he let his eyes flutter shut, the sound of your voice and the smell of your skin putting Felix in a dreamy haze
He wasn’t sure how long he had been asleep for when you finally tapped delicately on his cheek.
“Hey, I’m so boring you fell asleep?” You teased, causing Felix to sigh and look up at you.
Felix swore you had to be an angel, especially in that moment.
“You could never bore me, My Love.” Felix replied, voice deep and groggy from just waking up.
He sat up and stretched his arms over his head, blinking his eyes a bit to adjust to the warm orange sun.
“We’d better get back, its almost time to open.” You urged your husband, reaching for the cutlery to put it in the basket you bought.
“I wanna stay here with you.” Felix whined playfully, scooting over to lean his head down on your shoulder.
“We cant stay here, we have to work.”
“whyyyyyy?”
“Because! If we don’t work, we can’t have yummy food to eat or books to read or a place to sleep when it gets cold.”
“That’s dumb. I want to just lay with you in the grass and listen to you talk and hold onto you and kiss you and not worry about anything.”
“I know, but life isn’t perfect like that, Dear.” You finished packing away all the plates and cutlery before placing a kiss on Felix’s head, “Besides, if we don’t open up our place for people to stay and be happy for a while, who will?”
Felix hummed, lifting his head to look at you before leaning in and kissing you.
This time it was longer
Felix felt so lovesick, much like he always does when it comes to you.
He willed all of his love into the kiss, holding you tenderly as you kissed him back with just as much fervor.
When you finally parted, you stood up and held your hand out for Felix. He gladly accepted it, standing too
You made your way down the cobblestone street, swinging your hands back and forth like children as you spoke about how lovely the weather had been the past few days
As you approached the tavern, you noticed there was a man sat on the steps out front
When you actually recognized him, you almost dropped your basket
Minho.
Upon noticing your arrival, he stood up, and blinked a couple times. He seemed like he was the one who was surprised you and Felix were there
He wore simple looking clothes, a cloak for travel, and no crown; this was probably to avoid crowds forming and too much attention…
Felix swore his heart stopped as he froze in place, locking eyes with his brother
He wanted to go to him; hug him and tell him how much he missed seeing Minho.
He had thought about writing to his older brother, but resisted to urge as he was afraid.
Minho wasn’t just his brother,
He was heir to the throne of Clé
Which meant he had responsibilities.
Ones that probably included bringing Felix back
So instead of going to Minho, greeting him lovingly, Felix held your hand tighter and swallowed heavily
“Yongbok.” The Prince gasped, a breathless chuckle passing through his lips as he approached the two of you, “so the rumours were true…”
Felix said nothing, only putting himself between you and Minho and taking a half step back.
He didn’t know why he had come, but his worst fear was you being taken from him.
Upon your reaction, Minho stopped, eyebrows quirked in confusion. His smile faded
“Why have you come?” Felix asked, expression firm, but he felt like he was made of jelly
You held his hand tightly, swiping your thumb gently across the back of it to help calm your husband down.
“For answers.” Minho replied, fingers fiddling with the hem of his tunic as he watched the two of you, “and to see you I guess…”
The Prince walked back closer to the door, nodding his head towards it, “I arrived a bit earlier and I didn’t get an answer, so I assumed you were out. May we talk more inside?”
“Did you come alone, your highness?” You asked, finally speaking up. You weren’t sure if you should treat Minho with formalities or not, but it felt wrong to address him any other way…
The Prince nodded, “I didn’t want too much attention if I didn’t end up finding you. So..?”
Minho once again gestured to the door and you looked at Felix, who still seemed to be glued to the spot on the walkway
In all honesty, he could barely sense anything besides the sound of the blood rushing in his ears and the feeling of your hand in his.
He felt like his brain was shutting down.
This situation didn’t feel real.
It couldn’t be real
“Dear, what do you want to do?”
It was real.
“What do you think?” Felix finally whispered, turning to you. You gazed into your husbands eyes to find panic residing in them
However, you felt oddly at ease
If Minho was alone, he wasn’t a threat to you
For now, at least
Besides, he already had all the information he needed to ruin your life
He found you.
What more damage could be done by inviting him in?
You nodded, urging Felix to go to his brother
Felix nodded, turning back to Minho, who looked at the two of you expectantly
Felix wordlessly approached the door, holding onto your hand still as he unlocked it, allowing the three of you to enter the tavern
Minho looked around the room; if he had any opinion on your tavern, he didn’t say. He simply stood by the bar, as you closed the door.
Felix was still staring at his brother. It had been so long, he almost didn’t remember what he looked like
Had he always had that hair colour?
“Uhm.. can I get you anything, your highness? Perhaps a tea or something stronger?” You asked tentatively, pulling down a couple of chairs at a table for them to sit at.
“Just tea, thank you.” Minho hummed, sitting at the table you prepared for them. You nodded, taking the basket back to the kitchen to put the dishes in the sink and prepare a pot of tea.
Felix still stood near the bar, feeling anxiety bubble up. The only ease he felt was the sound of you in the kitchen; it was the only thing that grounded him.
“What do you want?” Felix asked, crossing his arms over his chest. He missed Minho, but he couldn’t trust him right now.
“To talk” Minho stated, gesturing to the chair across from him. Felix hesitated, bouncing his leg nervously. Minho slyly grinned, “I don’t bite, Yongbok.”
“Don’t call me that.” Felix mumbled, finally coming over to the table and sitting down across from his brother.
He was still weary, but he knew you were close by if anything happened
“Oh yes, I’ve heard you have a new name. Felix, is it?” Minho asked, frowning as he tapped his fingers on the table and hummed, “Interesting choice. It suits you.”
“What do you want?” Felix repeated, leaning forward in his chair with his expression cold. Minho smiled again, playfully looking at the younger man.
“No need be defensive! I told you. I came for answers.” Minho said. You returned, teapot and a couple of teacups on a tray that you sat down the table. Minho thanked you with a smile, only for you to bow.
You felt unsure if you should sit
Technically, you didn’t work for the royal court anymore, but Minho was still royalty...
You decided to stay standing, placing a gentle hand on your husband’s shoulder to hopefully help ease him.
It did, as you felt Felix’s shoulders relax under your touch.
Minho poured himself some tea, the sweet citrus aroma filling the air; He quietly stirred in a spoon of sugar before tapping it against the rim of the teacup.
“First and foremost, It is nice to see you.” Minho hummed, blowing on his drink twice before taking a tentative sip.
Felix was quiet for only a moment before mumbling out “It’s nice to see you too.”
He meant it.
As much as he felt defensive and out of his element, it was nice to see his brother after all this time.
Minho grinned, looking down to his lap at the confession. He chewed his bottom lip nervously before taking another sip of tea
“You know, you really stirred up a lot of trouble back home.” Minho chuckled, lacing his fingers together and setting his hands on the table, “Do you know what mother has been telling people?”
Felix was quiet; he hadn’t heard anything from Clé since you left.
“That I kidnapped Felix.” You answered for him, causing Felix to look over at you. Your expression was unreadable, but you stared at Minho with some sort of resolve
The Prince looked to you, raising his eyebrows and scoffing.
“Exactly that. “The Trusted Courtier took weapons from the armory and forced The Helpless Prince Yongbok to leave with them, never to be seen again.”” Minho huffed in a sarcastic tone, crossing his arms over his chest, “Can you believe it? How absurd.”
“You don’t believe it?” You asked, eyebrows furrowed and lips drawn into an amused pout; Your expression could be described as cat-like; cautious, yet curious.
“How could I when I found this?” Minho laughed, pulling a folded parchment from out of his pants pocket and placing it on the table.
Felix picked it up and opened it, revealing his own handwriting.
He immediately closed it when he realized what it was, causing his brother to let out a laugh from deep in his chest.
“What is it Felix?” You asked, leaning over to look at your husband’s now reddening face.
“I noticed you took all of your journals and letters with you.” Minho hummed, before pointing at the parchment, “But it seems you must have forgotten one.”
“I- Well...” Felix stammered, looking between you and Minho. Sighing in defeat, he handed you the parchment and let you read it.
Your eyes lit up to see it was a letter
addressed to you.
from Felix.
“Dear (Y/N), I’m not sure I’ll ever be allowed to say this out loud, so I’m writing this letter. You’ll probably never see it; in fact, I intend to never give this to you, but I need to say this or else I’ll probably combust. I am in love with you (I can’t believe I just wrote that...). You’re so smart and so kind. I feel warm when I am around you. You are the only person I feel like truly understands me and I hope that you enjoy spending time with me like I enjoy spending time with you. The truth is, you make my days bearable. You are like the sun. The stars in the night sky. I had the realization I have been struck by Cupid’s arrow because I think about you at all hours. You are my muse; I wonder which flowers you like best while I tend to all of them in the garden. I take my dance lessons and I imagine you are my dance partner. When I lay in bed at night, I think about how I must fall asleep quickly in order to see you again. But what I think about most is if you feel this way about me too? I hope so. - Felix”
Minho watched you read the letter, eyes softening as your expression grew ever so brighter as your eyes flicked down the page.
Felix watched you too, clearly embarrassed by his younger self; but all that dissipated as he saw how bright you were.
“I don’t think someone would write something like that about their kidnapper.” Minho hummed, taking another sip of tea as you finished the letter. You folded it up and held onto to it for a moment, feeling your heart flutter at the words.
Of course, you knew Felix loved you more than anything. But it was special seeing how much he loved you and for how long he’s loved you.
You gazed lovingly at Felix, placing a quick kiss to his cheek. He smiled up at you, grabbing onto your hand that laid at his shoulder.
“So.” Minho cleared his throat, “Seeing as I found that, I knew that something else was going on. And I needed to find out for myself. So I followed the only lead I could find.”
“Rumors of a tavern in Miroh?” Felix deduced, to which his brother nodded, leaning back in his chair. He looked around the room before smiling softly.
“and it looks like the rumors were true.” Minho said looking between you and Felix.
A silence washed over you all for a moment. It seemed Minho was pretty understanding of what your relationship with Felix was
however, that didn’t necessarily mean he approved.
“So, what does it mean now that you know the truth?” Felix asked bluntly. Minho stared at him for a moment before leaning forward
“Are you happy?” Minho asked, tone serious as he laced his fingers together again and placed them on the table.
“More than I’ve ever been.” Felix said honestly, staring down his brother. Minho shook his head before letting out a sigh. His demeanor shifted a bit as you and Felix watched him seemingly have an internal struggle raging in his head. After a moment of silence, he pursed his lips and tapped his fingers on the table nonchalantly as he seemingly had made a decision.
“The truth is, I told myself if it really was you, I’d bring you home.” The Prince said simply. He looked down at the table, brushing a hand through his hair, “I thought you had made a rash and irresponsible decision and I was going to bring you back to where you belong. Of course, I’d leave (Y/N) alone. If I brought them back, Father would surely have their head...”
Felix’s grip on your hand tightened, his stomach dropping at his brother’s words.
Minho’s expression softened as he looked at the two of you, taking one last sip from his teacup.
“However, I see now this is where you belong.” Minho said with a nod. He gestured around the room, playful expression finding it way onto his face, “You have made quite a beautiful home here and you seem to be happier with (Y/N) than I’ve ever seen you be at the castle. It would be wrong of me to take that away, I think.”
“Minho...” Felix sighed with relief, thankfulness written all over his face, “I- I don’t know what to say.”
“Thank you, your highness.” You said, bowing at the prince. Minho shook his head and waved his hand, slight pout on his lips.
“There is no need for you to do that, (Y/N). You’re my brother's wife now, so consider the formalities negated.” He said, chuckling to himself, “Besides, I’m not the heir to the throne right now. I’m just a man who came to visit.”
“You should stay for the night.’ Felix exclaimed, smiling at his brother for the first time since he arrived, “The tavern is very lively in the evenings. And I’d love to talk to you more.”
“I can’t stay, unfortunately.” Minho said with a frown, “I’m supposed to be at an alliance coalition with some of the western kingdoms early tomorrow morning, but I snuck away just to see you.”
“One more cup of tea couldn’t hurt?” You suggested, raising an eyebrow at the prince and jabbing a thumb in the direction of the kitchen, “Not to mention, Felix baked a lovely batch of blueberry muffins this morning, and it would be a shame for you not to try one.”
“My brother’s a baker?” Minho teased, turning to Felix and cracking a grin, “No way he would be capable of something like that. I simply must try it out for myself!”
“I’ll go put the kettle back on, and give you two some time to talk alone.” You hummed, placing a quick kiss on Felix’s lips and retreated back into the kitchen; you did take the love letter with you to re-read though
Felix giggled, his body feeling like it was on cloud nine.
He swore, he never felt so happy
maybe it was because he was relieved that his life wasn’t over,
but it was also nice to see Minho again.
The two of them talked as they used to, comfortably and casually.
Felix wouldn’t have the chance to speak with Minho often when he lived at the castle; his brother was much more busy and with conflicting duties and schedules, they never really had the time.
But whenever they did, it was never uncomfortable or awkward.
You didn’t want to intrude on their time alone, so after the tea was done and ready, you brought it to them before scurrying back to the kitchen to make yourself busy preparing for the dinner tonight
Felix asked about Karina and how Clé was doing; Apparently they were well, and Minho seemed to truly love the future queen. Felix also learned that apparent Winter had been married last autumn and was doing well too (Felix felt very relieved to hear this)
Clé was in a minor food shortage, but Minho was hoping to supplement that with an trade alliance with the western island of Halazia, who needed lumber for ships.
Felix then told Minho of the tavern and what it was like trying to afford to get it up and running. He spoke of the evening activities and how he got to do what he loved all the time.
And of course, Felix spoke of you; he told his brother how you supported him always, how you would do anything to make him happy, and how much he adored you as a person. He talked about all of his favourite activities to do with you and how it felt like a dream come true to get to fall asleep next to you everyday.
They were so caught up in conversation, they were both taken by surprise when someone walked in the door
“Wow, you guys have been slacking off today! The chairs aren’t even taken off the bar yet.” Hyunjin huffed out, smile on his face as he hung up his jacket. When he realized Felix was with another man, he flinched and grew flustered.
“Oh, forgive me! I didn’t realize you had a visitor.” Hyunjin apologized with a bow, “Sorry for intruding.”
“Don’t worry about it, Jinnie!” Felix chuckled, turning to Minho, “This is Hyunjin, our bar-hand.”
Hyunjin bowed again, waving at Minho before disappearing into the back to “take an inventory check”
“I guess that would be my cue to leave.” Minho hummed, standing from his chair. He hesitated to go, wanting to spend more time with Felix...
but Minho knew his responsibilities far outweighed his desire.
Felix lunged at him, engulfing his brother in a tight hug, which was reciprocated warmly.
“I’m glad to see you’re doing well here.” Minho said, releasing Felix from his grip, “I’ll be sure to write to you occasionally. And if I can, I’d love to visit you once again.”
“You better! I’ll miss you too much if you don’t” Felix grinned, leading Minho to the door, “Goodbye and safe travels.”
Minho hesitated once more at the door before hugging Felix again. With that final hug, he said goodbye, with Felix watching him walk away until he was out of sight
Felix felt his heart ache at the sight, but knew that he would at least be able to see Minho again someday
which was much more joyous than never hearing from him at all.
“Uhm... Lix?” Hyunjin asked, coming out from the back and leaning on the bar. He had a slight frown on his face and a pout on his lips.
Oh yes, Felix almost forgot he would have to try and explain the sudden visitor, which was very out of the ordinary of him to have.
“Yes?”
“I don’t mean to pry, but who was that?”
“That was my brother.” Felix mumbled, thinking up an excuse. He chewed his bottom lip before gazing up at Hyunjin, “He’s from a far away kingdom, so he can’t visit often.”
Hyunjin’s frown deepened, but he simply nodded, flashing a fake smile.
“Well, I’m glad your brother could visit.” He hummed, before starting to prepare the bar for tonight.
Did Hyunjin really have no further questions for Felix? It felt odd considering that the situation was strange and Felix gave a kind of wishy-washy, short answer.
technically he didn’t lie to Hyunjin,
Minho was from a kingdom far from here.
He just didn’t tell him Minho was soon to be the king of said kingdom
Felix doubted that Hyunjin didn’t have anymore suspicions about his visitor; He had always been bright and attentive, being able to read pretty much anyone. Hyunjin most likely knew something was fishy but simply decided to not say anything about it.
that is, until the bar had closed down for the night and the bar-keep beckoned both you and your husband to the back storage room to discuss something.
“So, what is this all about?” You asked, oblivious to the situation at hand
“I finally pieced it all together.” Hyunjin stated simply, expression unreadable
you furrowed your brow in confusion, looking over to Felix who looked as though he had seen a ghost.
of course he figured it out.
Felix knew he would
But what did that mean for all you’d have built?
so many new people being let in on your little secret made him sick. Putting trust that his and your entire life wouldn’t be ruined in another person’s hands makes him anxious beyond belief.
“Pardon? I’m not sure what you are referring to, Jin?” You confessed truthfully; you weren’t sure what the bar-keep was speaking of, but you could feel your nerves grow weak as you were sure to be able to guess what this could be about.
“I was wondering why we had the honor of a visit from Prince of Clé,” Hyunjin began, eyes darting between you and Felix as he spoke, “I couldn’t remember where I recognized him from at first, but then I remembered seeing his face in the paper after his wedding. And Felix informed me that it was his brother coming to visit, which cleared all my suspicions up.”
“I... I don’t know what to say...” Felix spoke shakily, body trembling.
god he felt so stupid!
of course people would know what the Clé prince -the future king of a neighboring kingdom- would look like.
why did he reveal it was his family...
“The bounty hunters, not speaking of the past, even that Clé longbow you keep behind the bar...” Hyunjin hummed, crossing his arms over his chest with a smirk, “not to mention you bear a striking resemblance to a particular missing prince?”
You were silent, standing like a statue as you assessed what to do.
truthfully, you were even less surprised than Felix that Hyunjin had figured it out; intuition and a few clues you supposed.
“Am I correct?” Hyunjin tilted his head slightly; his gaze was playful as his lips were drawn into a thin line.
Felix looked to you, reaching out his hand to lace his fingers with yours before turning back to Hyunjin with a curt nod.
there was no sense to lie to the man anymore.
Hyunjin bit his bottom lip, staring at the floor. The room was silent and the air was thick with tension
Until Hyunjin let out a breathless chuckle shaking his head. A grin found its way onto his face as you and Felix held your breath
“Honestly, I’m just more upset you guys didn’t tell me sooner” the bar-keep hummed, looking between you two, “how long have I worked here by now? And you still don’t trust me?”
“Sorry Jin,” You frowned, feeling a slight bit embarrassed at him scolding you, “But I’m sure you can understand why we want to keep our past a secret”
“No shit, hey?” Hyunjin laughed, which sounded like a symphony to Felix
He wasn’t going to turn you both in
Honestly, now that he really thought about it, it wouldn’t be in Hyunjin’s character to betray you both like that, so why was Felix even worried in the first place?
Well, plenty of reasons, considering what the secret was.
But it was Hyunjin.
And Felix liked him.
He trusted him.
And you did too.
“Hyunjin, we should have told you the moment we hired you. We are really sorry.” Felix confessed, reaching his hand out to shake the other man’s. For some reason, Felix did feel genuinely guilty for hiding his past from Hyunjin…
It must have shown on his face because Hyunjin simply looked at before swatting it away, pulling your husband into a hug
“Hey, I get it.” He spoke softly, pulling away to wrap his arms around you tenderly, “both of you must have gone through hell. I don’t blame you for wanting to move forward and never look back.”
“Maybe we can, just once more.” You suggested, looking between the two men with a knowing smirk, “I think you deserve a bit more detail onto how we got here, no?”
“Should I put the tea on?” Felix asked, smiling at you and then at Hyunjin fondly.
He couldn’t agree with you more; if he’s going to know, Hyunjin should get the whole story. The truth.
“I’d love to hear all about it.” Hyunjin exclaimed enthusiastically, walking out to the bar and pulling down a couple of the stools, “I’m sure it’s a hell of a story…”
And you couldn’t help but agree; your life with Felix was quite the story…
One that now had more interesting characters in it.
And one that you couldn’t wait to see how it goes next, with the dawn of new connections, but the same love you had and always will have for Felix
——————————————
A/N: OKAYYY FINALLY DONE!! Just over a year this baby has been in the making, but posting my 3racha fic in this universe had me inspired to finally finish it. I know this part has a little less focus on you and Lix, but I get as though other characters and relations are also interesting. I hope you enjoyed it :33
[ rival - chan x fem!reader ] The sun is beating down hard by the time it’s your turn to fight. Rivulets of sweat trickle down your face as you stand, hefting your sword as you wait for Chan.
It’s so fucking unfair, you think. Son of Poseidon, child of the sea – he just needs drink a cup of water or something to feel refreshed. Meanwhile, as the child of Athena, you don’t get any outside advantage. Just your brain.
Out of the corner of your eye, you watch him dump the rest of his water on his hair. White-blond curls stick to his forehead while a few remaining water droplets shimmer in the sun.
You suck in a breath through your teeth, almost hissing. Fucking unfair.
Ignoring the smirk on Chan’s face, you step forward, schooling your features into a neutral mask. Friend or not, handsome or not, you need to focus on training, not his stupid smile.
Not the stupid question he asks every time before a match.
If I win, can I get a kiss?
(If only you could ignore the fluttering in your heart every time he says those words.)
“Hey, Y/N.”
You look up against your will, raising an eyebrow at the smiling boy in front of you. “If you ask me that fucking question again, I’m going to lose it.”
“Fine, then I won’t ask.” He pouts. “But can I get an answer?”
“My answer has been the same for the past five months,” you say flatly, even as heat that isn’t from the sun starts rushing into your cheeks. “What makes you think I’ll change it now?”
Chan smirks. Oh, no. “I don’t know, maybe the way you were ogling me a few seconds ago?”
“I wasn’t ogling!” you snap.
He just raises an eyebrow. “Sure.”
You groan, stoutly ignoring the fluttering of your heart. “If I say yes, will that get you to shut the fuck up?”
“Absolutely.” He looks incredibly earnest as he utters that word, eyes as clear as the lake just a few meters away. And not for the first time, you feel your heart melt a little.
“Fine.” You heft your sword. “But I’m going to win.”
“You sure about that? Now I have something to fight for,” Chan counters.
You open your mouth to reply, but Minho chooses that damn second to blow the whistle. Immediately, you leap forward, sword slashing through the air.
Every swordfight, to you, is a blur. From start to finish, you remember nothing but the slashing of your blade, the clanging of metal, the whipping of the wind against your skin and hair. The sun blazes hot and dry on your head, but you just blink the sweat out of your eyes, singularly focused on the fight.
But today, Chan fights with an intensity you haven’t seen before. He’s never held back before, but something’s giving him a boost today. He’s faster on his feet and with his hands, ducking in and out of your attacks, finding loopholes and openings to force you on your guard.
Swords clash and sparks fly, blinding against the bright sun, until Chan finally flips the blade out of your hand. It clatters to the ground with a resounding noise.
The tip of a blade inserts itself underneath your chin. “I win,” Chan says softly, eyes boring into yours.
For once, you find yourself at a loss for words.
It isn’t only you who’s gone silent. All of the other spectating campers have shut up, eyes riveted on the sight in front of them. A dry breeze blows through the air.
You swallow. “Y-yeah.”
Yeah? What the fuck, Y/N? That’s all you can say?
A slow smile begins to spread over Chan’s face. “I believe you owe me something.” His eyes twinkle as he removes the sword. “A kiss, I think.”
Heat rises in your face again. “Uh…”
“KISS! KISS!” Changbin starts the chant and you throw him a furious glance, even as the other campers start picking up the cheer.
“Too many people?” Chan looks over the crowd of people, raising an eyebrow.
You swallow. “A little.”
Then something’s grabbed you by the waist, someone else is screaming, and there’s a whole lot of yelling and shouting and the sound of water rushes into your ears. By the time you’ve regained your bearings, you’re standing with Chan deep under the surface of the lake, encased in a bubble of air.
Chan grins widely, features awash with the blue of the water. He looks ethereal. “Better?”
A wry smile spreads across your face. “Maybe.”
“Just maybe?” Chan pouts exaggeratedly. Your heart’s defenses melt a bit more at the sight.
“Fine.” In a fit of uncharacteristic bravery, you wrap your arms around Chan’s neck just as his gentle hands settle against your waist. “It’s perfect.”
Genre(s): Best Friend to lovers, non-idol au, fluff I guess??? some angst because I couldn’t resist, Maybe slightly suggestive if you squint, and mentions of some of the other members of cravity
Warning(s): swearing, weed use, but that’s about it
Summary: Your best friend invites you to hang out late at night; that’s expected, since you usually hang out at night, but what you didn’t you didn’t expect was him to tell you something that has been on his mind recently
A/N: I AM IN LOVE WITH KIM TAEYOUNG. Okay but actually, I just really wanted to write this because I’m a self-indulgent fic writer and I want to hang out with Youngtae so badly bruh... So I’m writing this now. I hope you enjoy :)
HE IS SO PRETTY !!!!
Dumbass: I’m outside loser :p
You quickly slipped your old fleece jacket on before stepping out into the crisp cool night. It was late; later than you would usually hang out.
But with Taeyoung’s busy work schedule, you were just glad you were able to go see him. His junky grey car sat idling beside the curb; you could always hear it before you could see it, probably due to the shitty transmission or problems with the wheel bearings that Taeyoung didn’t have the money to fix.
He worked at your town’s local grocery store, mostly stocking shelves. He said it was only until he could find something better, but three years later he still spends almost everyday arranging boxes in the back and accounting for the shipments.
“Hey nerd, what’s the plan?” You said stepping into the car and closing the door behind you. He was wearing a simple black tee-shirt and a pair of baggy jeans. He also had the bracelet you gave him for his birthday wrapped around his wrist. It was a simple silver chain, but you had an almost identical one that you wore everyday.
“Wow, not even a ‘how are you’?” Taeyoung huffed, shaking his head playfully at you, “Straight to business I see...” You couldn’t help the smile the crept up onto you face as you rolled you eyes at him.
“Okay sorry,” You said sarcastically, going to buckle up your seat belt, “How are you?”
“I’m good, thanks for asking.” Taeyoung said flatly, grinning softly at you before putting his hands on his steering wheel, “Is it okay if we go down to the river? Or is it too spooky for you this late?”
You lived in a small town out in the middle of nowhere; the population was low, mostly just families that had been there for generations and the occasional newcomer coming in for work. It was tucked up in the hills and surrounded by woods; It also bordered a river, which was a hot spot for people to visit in the summer to escape the blistering heat. Even though it wasn’t too hot now, it would still be nice to sit out there in the shroud of night and get a nice summer breeze off the edge of the water.
“That sounds fine dude,” You replied, tugging at the sleeves of your jacket, “But it wouldn’t be this late if you would have invited me out sooner.”
“Sorry, some of us have a job.” Taeyoung scoffed, putting his car in drive and pulling away from your house. Without looking away from the road, he tosses his phone into your lap, “You have to DJ because I have to make sure we don’t hit anything.”
“roger that.” You hummed, scrolling through Taeyoung’s Spotify to press shuffle on a playlist titled ‘The Jams’. The song didn’t really matter, since it was just background noise anyways.
“How was work today? You were there pretty late tonight huh?” You asked only for Taeyoung to groan dramatically.
“For some reason, Serim’s dad ordered a double shipment of a bunch of our items, so I had spent ages counting them out,” Taeyoung huffed, stopping at a red light and turning to you, “Why did he do that to me?! When Serim hooked me up with this shitty job at his dad’s grocery store, I thought it was supposed to be fun!”
Taeyoung started waving his hands around as he ranted. You couldn’t help but grin; it was a habit he had that you noticed almost immediately after becoming friends. You think it must just be from him getting too worked up over stuff, because you also noticed he did it when he was excited as well.
“I thought I was supposed to be chill because Mr. Park has always been super chill when we go to their house to hang.” Taeyoung continued, “But nooo! When I work for him, he orders a double shipment out of the blue or asks me to count everything again ‘just to be sure’. I swear he purposely makes me stay longer at work.”
“Youngtae,” You hummed, pointing out the front window at the traffic lights, “Green.” Taeyoung let out a sigh before pressing on the gas.
“If you hate it so much, why do you stay working there?” You asked, rolling down the window to let the cool night air in. Taeyoung approaches the edge of town, turning down the dirt road that would lead you both to the river bank.
“I heard the gas station Minhee work at is looking for someone. You could ask him to help you out.” You suggested, earning a “mmh-hmm” in response from Taeyoung.
“Maybe, but I’m pretty sure the owner hates me for shoplifting candies when we were in middle school.” He said sheepishly, cringing at the memory and pulling off the road; he drove through the long grass to the edge of the river before putting his car in park.
“Besides, I don’t want to be in this hellhole for much longer.” Taeyoung confessed, turning his car off and taking his seat belt off.
“No?” You replied, taking your seat belt off too, opting to lean the seat back a bit more before continuing in a teasing tone, “This place doesn’t tickle your fancy?”
“Not at all,” Taeyoung chuckled, pushing his dark hair out of his face, “You guys made being here manageable, but I can’t stand being here. I feel like I’m going to be stuck.”
“I get that,” You said, staring at your hands in your lap, “We all feel the same, I think...”
“Do you have your pen on you?” Taeyoung suddenly asked. You silently pulled it out of your pocket and handed it to him. He takes a hit of it before frowning.
“What flavour of cart is this? It tastes like ass.” Taeyoung complained, handing the dab pen back to you. You take a hit of it too, humming as you let the smoke fill your lungs.
“Its blackberry I think..?” You replied, bringing the pen up to your eyes to look at it. You shrug, taking another hit of it, “I wanted to try something new. Besides, it’ s not that bad.”
Taeyoung took it from your grasp before placing it between his lips. His eyebrows furrowed as he inhaled with a disgusted look on his face.
“Remind me to never buy blackberry.” He grumbled, giving it back to you as you giggled at him. The two of you sat in silence for a moment. You glanced at Taeyoung’s side profile, as he was seemingly staring out into nothingness.
“Did you hear Seongmin got into university?” Taeyoung broke the silence, and you nodded. He tapped his fingers on the steering wheel while thinking, before leaning back, “I’m happy for him. He moves into the city sometime at the end of august. He asked me and a few of the guys if we’ll drive him in and help him move stuff into the dorm.”
“That’s really wonderful for him,” You said genuinely, eyes drifting away from Taeyoung to look out to where he was staring at. You could see the reflection of the water from the light of the moon, as it was pretty clear that night. You turned back to Taeyoung, trying to read his expression, “don’t you think its wonderful?”
“Yeah, of course.” Taeyoung said, smiling at you weakly before taking a deep breath, “Its just... I’ll miss him, y’know? I think it’s one of the big reason I haven’t left yet. I’d miss you guys too much...”
“Yeah, I understand what you mean.” You said, looking out your open window, “But I think it’ll be okay.”
Taeyoung looked at you, but you were leaned away from him against the window, closing your eyes just to bask in the night atmosphere. He could barely see you in this light, but your figure looked calm and relaxed in the light of the moon.
“You’re not worried about drifting apart?” Taeyoung asked, anxiety laced through his tone as he fidgeted in his seat. You glanced at him before sitting up in your seat.
“Not at all.” You said simply, smiling softly and brushing your hand through your hair, “I think if we all put in a effort to talk or text regularly, no distance could force our little group apart.”
You turn to face Taeyoung, who chewed his bottom lip nervously. His eyes shone like diamonds from the reflection of the sky, and you couldn’t help the grin that came across your face.
“It’s all about doing your part to nurture the relationship, y’know?” You concluded, taking your pen out and having one last hit of it before throwing it haphazardly in the cup holder.
“I guess you’re right... I’m just scared because it’ll be really different.” Taeyoung hummed. He picked at his nails, peeling the polish you did a week ago off them.
“Different doesn’t mean bad,” You replied, before smiling playfully and grabbing his hand to stop him from picking off the nail polish, “Hey, don’t pick off all my hard work!” Taeyoung chuckled at you, looking down at his fingernails and then back at you.
“Sorry.” He said and laced his fingers in between yours, “You’re right. everything will be okay. Besides, we will all move at some point, right?” You hummed in agreement, turning to look out the window again at the river.
Taeyoung’s hand was warm in yours; he felt clammy from the summer humidity, but it fit almost perfectly in yours. Like it was meant to belong there...
You sat in a comfortable silence for a few moments, nothing heard but the sound of crickets in the reeds by the river and the quiet melody of the song playing on Taeyoung’s phone.
That’s how it was with Taeyoung, comfortable.
You and him had always been close, you’d even go as far as saying he was your best friend in your little group of friends. But more recently, you’d been feeling a bit awkward around Taeyoung after an incident that happened that planted this annoying thought in the back of your head...
~
Jungmo had a party about a month ago at his house; His parents were out of town that weekend, so of course all of your friends were invited, plus a few other people you graduated with. Well, of course that lead to a bunch more people showing up (people you didn’t really know), but nobody really minded at the end of the day, since the more the merrier for it.
You, Taeyoung and a few of your other friends were sitting out in the backyard, overall having a good time. There were a few other people around, but you didn’t really notice to much; you were absolutely high at the time, as was Taeyoung and the boys from your friend group which were sitting with you.
“No you’re not listening to me (Y/N)!” Woobin shouted, taking slow, long blinks while putting his hands up in defense, “You would need to go to the boat, Like they do in the movie.”
“no no! I’d just swim around until the flood ended,” You argued, crossing your arms, “Besides, they didn’t even get to the boat in the movie, they just stood up on a rock and the water went away.”
“But the water only went away because of that dumbass squirrel and it’s acorn!” Woobin said with a huff, “Besides, you’ll get tired after swimming for a while. The only way to survive is getting on the boat.”
“What are you two arguing over? I can hear you yelling from inside...” Allen said with a drunken giggle, closing the patio door behind him as he sat down and cracked open the can of beer in his hand.
“How we would survive if we were in Ice Age, The Meltdown.” Taeyoung explained, grinning as he tossed his dab pen to Allen, “Ruby insists you’d die without getting to the boat and (Y/N) thinks they could just swim around until the water went away.”
“You’re both wrong and stupid,” Wonjin said playfully, wagging his finger around the circle before tapping on his head, “I’d just climb up onto the ice wall honestly.” You all let out exclamations in protest, talking about the water coming from the ice wall and Allen let out a hearty laugh at your antics.
“Youngtae,” You huffed in a whiny voice, leaning your head on his shoulder and sticking your lip out in a pout, “You think I could swim to survive, right?”
“If we are going based on the events of the movie,” Taeyoung hummed, tapping his chin clumsily while pretending to think, “I think you could swim for long enough to survive.”
“Ha!” You shouted, sticking your finger in Woobin’s face with a satisfied smile, “See? Youngtae agrees with me, which means I win!” You giggled happily and leaned more into Taeyoung, who slung his arm around your shoulder lazily.
“Whatever, I’m not listening to dumb and dumber.” Woobin said while rolling his eyes. You and Taeyoung immediately began bicker on who was dumb and who was dumber.
“I’m going in to get something to eat, anyone wanna come or need me to bring anything?” Woobin stood from his spot on the lawn and stretching his arms up over his head. Wonjin murmured something about chips while laying on his back and counting the blades of grass near his face. Allen shook his head no, before taking a sip of the drink he had in his hand.
“I wanna come! I have to pee anyways.” Taeyoung cheered, lifting you off of him to stand up. You grabbed onto Taeyoung’s arm and asked for a drink of water, to which Taeyoung acknowledged with a ‘roger that!’; then the two boys went inside, closing the patio door behind them leaving you with Wonjin and Allen and the few strangers from before. It was a girl you didn’t recognize accompanied by a guy you went to high school with, but didn’t really talk to, since he was a few grades above you.
“Hey guys, I think I took too much weed.” Wonjin said with a sigh, flicking the grass lazily, “My eyes feel like they are made of liquid and my body feels like it weighs a million pounds.”
“My mouth is just super dry...” You said, smacking your lips and touching your tongue with your index finger, “My thongue theels like thandpaper”
“You guys should have just had alcohol instead then,” Allen boasted, grabbing your arm to take your finger out of your mouth. He let out a little giggle, rubbing the back of his neck bashfully, “I mean, I had waaaaaayyy too much so I’m not any better off.”
“You probably came outside to make sure you didn’t puke on Jungmo’s carpet...” You hummed, earning a ‘bingo’ from Allen, who chuckled along with you before taking another swig from his beer and then setting the can down in the grass.
“You’ll be fine, Taeyoung is bringing you water for your precious tongue.” Wonjin said and sat up, pulling his phone out and turning it on only to put it back in his pocket. He then smiles gently to himself and snickering, “And Ruby is bringing me chips so I’ll be fine too, hehe....”
“You guys didn’t need anything, right?” Allen asked the strangers sitting off to the side. You turned to look at them and giving them both a polite smile, which they reciprocated.
“No we’re good.” The dude said simply, turning to the girl beside him and kissing her cheek with a grin. She leaned further into him as he pulled her closer, “Right baby?”
“Yeah, we are good.” She smiled at him before looking at you sweetly, “So, how long have you been dating?”
“....Huh?” You asked, furrowing your eyebrows at her, “Dating who?”
Just then, The patio door opened to reveal Woobin with a bag of tortilla chips and Taeyoung with two glasses of water in his hand.
“We have come bearing gifts!” Woobin cheered, throwing the bag of chips down onto the grass only for it to be snatched up quickly by Wonjin. Taeyoung gave you the glass gingerly, before sitting back down beside you with his own glass.
“What happened while we were gone?” Taeyoung asked, looking around at all the members in the little group.
“I was just asking your partner how long you two had been dating for?” The girl said, nodding her head towards you. You felt your eyes widen and your face heat up, as you quickly stared down at the grass. The girl turned to the boy beside her and placed a quick kiss on his lips, “Me and Christopher have been together for only a few months now, but it feel like its been forever. I was just wondering how long have you been dating for?”
“Me and (Y/N).... Uhhh...” Taeyoung mumbled, clearly taken aback by this girl’s question. He scooted a bit away from you, brushing his hair out of his face. The other boys looked between the two of you awkwardly, as you kept your eyes trained in your lap and the grass below.
“We aren’t a couple actually.... Just good friends, that’s all.” Taeyoung replied, embarrassment clear by the tone of his voice and the redness rising from his neck up to his ears. The girl had gone pale, letting out a quiet ‘oh’ before silence fell over the group.
“I’m sorry I assumed.” She apologized quickly, “You guys are just so touchy with each other and I saw the matching bracelets so I assumed. I’m really sorry.”
“It’s fine, you didn’t know.” Taeyoung laughed awkwardly, picking at his fingernails and looking anywhere but you beside him. You couldn’t bring yourself to look up at all. You felt your stomach sink and a horrible feeling of nausea washed over you as you tapped the edge of your water glass.
It went silent again, and you felt like everyone was holding their breath. You hated it. Were you and Taeyoung too clingy? Did people really think you guys were dating. There is no way you’d ever date Taeyoung, he’s your best friend! Why did you feel like your stomach was doing back flips and your face was on fire? You hated this whole situation; it was all too much for you right now.
You lazily checked your phone, pretending to look at the time before you downed your glass of water. You stood up, earning the attention of the rest of the group.
“Its pretty late and I had too much weed, so I’m going to go to bed.” You said with a weak smile, nodding to the couple of strangers, “Nice to meet you both.”
“Are you sure, (Y/N)?” Allen asked, standing up too. He gave you a subtle look of pity as you nodded, plastering a fake smile on your face. You felt like you were hyperventilating with all the eyes on you. It was all to much for you in this state.
“Good night boys.” You mumbled before retreating back inside, not sparing a glance at Taeyoung. Why did this situation make you so anxious. And why did this make you question your relationship with Taeyoung? Was your relationship perceived as more then friends by most people? Aren’t friends clingy anyways, or was it to a different degree you and Taeyoung? But most importantly, why did the idea of dating him not sound so bad to you when you really thought about it? You were going to be sick if you thought about it longer.
It was too much, so you pushed those thoughts as you retreated to Jungmo’s spare room and lock the door behind you, not to come out until the next morning, where nobody brought it up, not even Taeyoung.
Even when you hung out with him a week later, and then last week too, Taeyoung didn’t mention the incident at all, but you both knew it caused a change in the comfortability of your relationship...
~
It felt strange to hold Taeyoung’s hand after the incident. You weren’t sure what happened after you went to bed, but you were feeling a sense a relief that he did hold your hand when he needed it. It was a sign that maybe your relationship could be going back to normal maybe? Taeyoung brushed his thumb subconsciously over the back of your hand. Now buried in the relief arose a strange feeling, the one where your stomach was doing flips and your started to feel a bit warmer and that little thought of dating him crawled its way out of the back of your brain.
“Your hand is super sweaty dude.” Taeyoung laughed, giving it a little squeeze. You let out a laugh too, releasing his hand and wiping yours on your pant leg.
“Sorry, I guess I’m a little hot right now.” You confessed, “I shouldn’t have worn this shitty jacket...”
“I love that jacket, even though it’s so old and shitty,” Taeyoung said playfully, leaning over to grab near the pocket and smiling when he felt the crispy outline of a burn hole, “I remember when we all went camping last summer and you got hit by a stray spark from the campfire and it burned this hole in it. I remember you standing up so fast and me and you patting it out before it could burn you.” He chuckled at the memory, looking up at your face as you felt around the burn hole too.
“That was fun, minus me almost getting lit on fire.” You said grinning at the fond memory before looking at Taeyoung in the eyes, “We should go camping again sometime. Although, preferably when it’s not so hot outside.”
“If you’re really that hot, we could go for a swim in the river?” Taeyoung suggested nonchalantly, the corners of his mouth curling up into a cat-like grin.
“I’d love to, but do I look like I’m wearing a swimsuit stupid?” You chuckled, gesturing to your body before laughing a bit at the idea.
“Not a problem!” Taeyoung hummed, before surprising you by suddenly tugging his shirt up and over his head. Your eyes went from his bare torso back up to his face with a look of shock.
“It’s nothing you haven’t seen before because being in your underwear is basically the same thing as being in a swimsuit,” Taeyoung deduced, opening his car door and starting to undo his belt. His torso seemed to glow in the moonlight from the sheen sweat from the summer heat; he must have been just as hot as you were, but somehow you started to feel it even worse now that Taeyoung was more exposed. You couldn’t take your eyes off him and you felt your heart squeeze a bit, which was increasingly concerning.
“You coming or..?” Taeyoung asked with a smile, leaning down to make eye contact with you. His hands dipped into the top of his jeans, however he did not pull them down yet. You realized he was waiting for you to agree before doing so, which made you feel much more comfortable.
You thought for a moment. You knew this wasn’t a good idea, as the little voice in your head that arose form the party was getting stronger and you could feel the rational part of your head be clouded over by not only your other thoughts, but also the haze of your weed kicking in. You chewed you lip nervously before smiling softly back at Taeyoung.
“Fine Youngtae. Fuck it. It’s too hot” You sighed, taking your jacket off before stepping out of the car too. You piled all your clothing (besides your undergarments) haphazardly on the passenger seat and placed your shoes on the car floor in front of the seat. Now that you were out of the car in nothing but your underwear, you felt the coolness of the night air. However, you still felt just as hot, if not worse. You couldn’t shake the nervous feeling in the pit of your stomach or the beating of your heart the felt like it was going a million miles an hour from adrenaline.
Your nervousness must have showed, because you could hear a hearty laugh come from your best friend as he walked around to the front of the car.
“Relax a bit dude, it’s just me here.” He said, brushing his hair back once more. You refused to look anywhere south of his belly button, for your own sanity, but you did notice his boxers being a ugly plaid pattern from your peripheral.
“If I would have known you’d be seeing my underwear, I’d have worn nicer ones...” You said, trying to sound as casual as possible, but inside your body was on fire. Your brain was shutting down and your body felt jittery and nervous.
“Don’t worry about that, you look fine.” Taeyoung complimented, making your stomach drop. Taeyoung walked past you, going down to the very edge and walking along it, calling after you. “Come on, slow poke! The shallow area should be around here..”
You shook your head, trying to get a hold of yourself; taking a deep breath and following Taeyoung to the shallow part where people usually swam during the day. He stepped off the bank and into the water, having it come up to his ankles when he let out a few curses and curled his fingers into fists at his side.
“Brrrr! Its freezing!” He cried out, wincing at you as you laughed at how cute he was, “I’m going to become a Young-sicle after this I’m sure...”
“I guess I’ll be a (Y/N)-sicle then,” You said, stepping in beside him and feeling a shiver immediately run up your legs from the cold water. Your eyes meet Taeyoung and you both burst out in laughter at the knowing look of biting cold that you both are experiencing.
Taeyoung begins to wade out a bit further, complaining the whole time when you get an evil idea. You follow him, water getting up to around your knees with your grin growing as you close the distance between the two of you, so that you are are now standing maybe a couple feet away from each other again.
“Hey Youngtae!” You called to him to get his attention. He turned to look at you and before he had time to react, you dig your hands into the ice cold water and splash him. He shrieked due to the surprise of water hitting his body and the cool temperature of it of his skin. You laughed at his reaction, quickly doing a few more splashes so he doesn’t have time to recover, getting water all the way up to near his face.
“Quit it! It’s freezing!” He places his hands out to try and block the water from hitting him. Your laughter quickly goes from joyous to scared as he starts wading over to you.
“No wait! I’m sorry!” You said through a fit of giggles, weakly splashing at him to try and keep him away, “I’m sorry, I’m sorry. Youngtae, don’t!”
“You should have thought about that before you splashed me, stupid.” He giggled back, grabbing onto your arm and pulling you towards him so he can wrap his arms around your frame. You let out a squeal as he lifted you a bit, dragging you into deeper water.
“Youngtae, please don’t! I’m sorry.” You struggled against his iron grip, smacking his arms playfully, but you felt the chuckle leaving his chest as he held you still in the water.
“Sorry,” He hummed sarcastically, “Next time don’t start something you can’t finish.”
With that, Taeyoung quickly lifted you off your feet and promptly dunked you in the water, almost crushing you by laying down over you, just to make sure you couldn’t avoid the icy plunge. You screamed from the cold, while Taeyoung sucked air through his teeth at the freezing water rushing over his back. He let you go and you quickly spun around to face him before smacking him on the shoulder.
“Kim Taeyoung I swear, you’re dead meat!” You scolded while giggling at him. His expression mirrored your own, with only a slight hint of pride residing in his features.
“Hey! You were the one who splashed me first!” Taeyoung laughed, leaning back to sit in the shallow water; he crossed his legs, letting the water comfortably wade just under his collar bones. You mumbled in agreement, letting your laughter die down before you sat beside him.
The cool water was frigid at first, but after a few seconds of getting used to it, it felt refreshing. You let out a sigh of relief, feeling the heat from earlier subside even a little bit as you closed your eyes. You and Taeyoung were silent, just listening to the sound of the running water and the faint tune of Taeyoung’s car radio fill the air.
That is, until you best friend broke the silence.
“Hey, uhm.” He mumbled, causing you to open your eyes and look at him; you almost wished you didn’t. He looked beautiful, hair slightly damp, tan skin shining, soft eyes trained on you with his bottom lip slightly tucked between his teeth.
“I’ve been meaning to talk to you about something.” Taeyoung continued, scooting closer to you, causing the water around the two of you to ripple; much like the butterflies that arrive in your stomach from the possibilities of this conversation.
“What is it?”
“Well, I..... uhm.”
“Youngtae.” You said flatly, expression softening as you reached out for his arm to place a comforting touch to it, “talk to me.”
You could tell Taeyoung was anxious from the way his eyebrows furrowed and how his lips were pulled into a thin line. He had the same look before the talent show in middle school; It was the first time he performed in front of anyone and he was so nervous he almost threw up. But, just like now, you were there for him to make sure he was okay.
Like you’d always be.
He let out a sigh, before looking away from you, “I wanted to talk about what happened.. Y’know... at the party.”
It was your turn to be anxious now, body freezing up before you turned to look away too, focusing on the way the moon reflected off the dark water. Was this it? Did Taeyoung not want to be your friend anymore because of how you acted at the party? Did he think you were disgusted with the possibility of dating him? Would he be weirded out if he found out you felt quite the opposite?
“Look, I’m sorry.” He started out, struggling to find the words, “I know you were really uncomfortable and I.... I should have been more aware of how my behavior can be perceived by others. I know that we are just friends and I shouldn’t be so clingy...”
“Please don’t apologize! You didn’t do anything wrong.” You quickly countered, looking down at the way your body distorted through the water. You wanted nothing more than to drown yourself there.
You were the one who froze up and didn’t say a word. You were the one who left him alone to deal with the situation. You were the one who was slowly growing relationship-changing feelings... “It should be me who is apologizing.”
“For what?!” Taeyoung gasped, whipping his head to look at you.
“For making you think that I was upset with you! For leaving and making it awkward between us.”
“You weren’t upset?”
“No.” You huffed out, feeling your face heat up. You take your cold hands out of the water to pat your cheeks gently as you let out a sigh. Your mind felt cloudy and your heart beat went steady against your chest. You blamed the weed for allowing the truth to tumble out of your mouth, “I should apologize because I’m still making it awkward between us...”
“How so?” He mumbled, eyes burning holes into the side of your face as you looked out at the other shoreline. You heaved a heavy sigh, hanging you head before letting all the true thoughts and feelings you’ve been having spill out.
“Because I can’t stop thinking about how much I love you.” You confessed, words flowing from your lips much easier than you anticipated, “Not in a platonic, ‘we are best friends!’ way, but in a ‘I think about you all the time and want to wake up next to you everyday’ kind of way. I didn’t realize it until the party, but I am in love with you and I maybe always have been.”
The silence was deafening, with the only sound being the thumping of a nervous heart and the rushing of the cold water surrounding you. You drop you head, feeling the weight of what you just said.
Taeyoung was quiet beside you, seemingly from shock or being deep in thought.
You allowed the silence only for a moment before you turned to look at him. You couldn’t bear the uneasiness any longer.
“I’m so sorry.” You mumbled, your gaze catching his, “I know we are just frien-”
Taeyoung quickly cut you off by rushing forward, placing a hasty kiss on you lips. It was so quick, you weren’t even sure if it happened as you just stared at him, too stunned to speak.
He...
He kissed you?
“I’m sorry, I should have asked before I did that!” Taeyoung huffed out, running one of his wet hands through his hair as he smiled, mouth slightly agape. You noticed the redness creeping up his neck and cheeks.
“I... I’m just.” He stutters, brain seemingly short-circuited before he cleared his throat and took a deep breath to collect himself, “I just never thought you’d like me back.”
“You... like me?” You asked, heart leaping into your throat.
“Well duh!” He giggled, “I mean, I thought I was pretty obvious about my feelings for you, but I just assumed you never saw me as anything more than a friend. And I’m more than happy to just be a part of your life.”
“Wow, I must’ve be blind...”
“No, just stupid.”
“Okay, that’s a bit uncalled for.”
“Sorry.” Taeyoung hummed, shifting to tuck his knees up against his chest as he wrapped his arms around them. He chewed his bottom lip nervously as his eyes darted down to the dark murky water, “So..?”
“So?”
“Now what?”
“What do you mean?”
“I don’t know!” Taeyoung huffed exasperated , throwing his hands in the air, causing the water around the two of you to ripple. “Are we still just friends or....” He let his voice trail on, giving you a hopeful look, “Does this change everything?”
“I mean,” You spoke softly, feeling the heat rise to your face. Why was it all of a sudden so hard to talk to Taeyoung? You felt like you were choking on the words as you cleared your throat and meekly whispered, “I wouldn’t mind a change...”
Taeyoung nodded, smile slowly spreading across his face as he registered what you said. He turned to you, scooting a bit closer so that your shoulders touched and your faces were a few inches apart.
“I think I’d like that too.” He whispered, voice just barely audible as his eyes wandered your facial features. Without another word more, you slowly leaned in, giving him plenty of time to move away before you placed you lips against his.
You were felling so many things at this moment; joy, excitement, nervousness. But above all else, you felt right.
Being here with Taeyoung, kissing him and letting yourself love him just felt right. Like it was all falling into place and meant to be. You thought about your future with your best friend and how that was all going to change; but you had hope that it would be for the better.
—————————
A/N: In my Taeyoung vibes and I just didn’t have a way to finish it so please forgive a rushed ending. I love this man SOOO much !! Believe it or not, he’s actually my main man in Cravity, even though I haven’t posted about him lol. Anyways, I hope you enjoyed!!!
