✨ Writing worlds where stories breathe. #LyraVaelenWrites
FanFiction: Currently K-pop and Anime
*Disclaimer: All works are fiction. While they may draw inspiration from real life or outside the genre, they are not direct accounts. Characters are original or loosely inspired, but not true-to-life.*
Hello, here you will find the master list of all my works for easier access. I do hope you enjoy.
*Disclaimer: All works are fictional. Some elements may be inspired by real life or even ideas outside the genre, but nothing is a direct account. Characters are either original or loosely inspired by real people, though they aren’t meant to be true-to-life representations.*
Azalea moves to South Korea on a whim to escape her past, but unexpected friendships soon challenge her to step out of her comfort zone and confront the fears she tried to leave behind.
Got7
Concert Dreams (MDNI) - Jackson Wang
Starr and her best friend scored tickets to a Jackson Wang concert, and it turned into a night they will never forget!
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When Azalea and Jooheon returned to the banquet room, they noticed the group had migrated to a cozy area with a couple of love seats and a large couch arranged in a semicircle. They joined the others, Azalea taking an open spot on the sofa next to Hyungwon while Jooheon claimed a seat on one of the love seats.
The evening unfolded with the natural ups and downs of socializing. The guys would often get up to mingle with other groups, and occasionally, members from those groups would come over to chat with them. Sanghee and Azalea, however, mostly stayed seated, only getting up for brief trips to the bathroom, the drink station, or the buffet.
Azalea picked at her food nervously, her appetite suppressed by her heightened anxiety. She tried her best to engage in conversations when members or groups approached their spot, and the guys were kind enough to introduce her each time. She quickly realized how out of her depth she felt; she didn’t know any of these people or their roles within the organization.
Whenever Azalea admitted this, the responses were a mix of surprise and appreciation. Many were taken aback by her lack of recognition but seemed to value her honesty. She noticed a common thread in their reactions: a sense of gratitude. It struck her that these individuals, so often treated as idols, genuinely appreciated being seen and spoken to as regular people.
Despite the warmth of these interactions, each one weighed on Azalea in a new way. The more she realized how rare it was for them to experience regular human contact, the more overwhelming the evening became. She couldn’t help but feel a pang of sadness for them constantly in the public eye, admired but often dehumanized. It made her all the more determined to treat them with genuine kindness, even if it was just through simple conversations.
Hyungwon, noticing her slight withdrawal, leaned in with a soft smile. “You’re doing great, you know,” he said quietly, his tone reassuring.
Azalea gave him a small, grateful smile in return. “Thanks, Hyungwon. It’s just... a lot.”
“I get it,” he replied. “But trust me, you’re handling it better than most would.”
His words gave her a slight boost of confidence, enough to keep going as the evening wore on.
Later that night, the room continued to buzz with conversation, laughter, and music. The guys had been mingling with other guests, but suddenly, someone unfamiliar entered their circle. It was clear by the way the guys responded that they knew him well, and the warm smiles on their faces made it apparent that they hadn’t seen each other in some time. Azalea observed the interaction quietly, watching as the guys greeted him with high-fives, fist bumps, and pats on the back. The camaraderie between them was noticeable, and she couldn’t help but smile at how happy they were to reconnect.
She and Sanghee were engaged in their own conversation, keeping their voices low so they wouldn’t disrupt the guys’ reunion. The two were discussing their favorite romantic comedy movies, a topic that always brought a sense of comfort. Azalea had brought up 50 First Dates and The Wedding Singer, two classic Adam Sandler films, and they were animatedly discussing the charm of his roles when they didn’t notice the guys gesturing toward them, signaling they wanted to introduce their new friend.
Azalea didn’t realize what was happening until Minhyuk, who was standing beside the newcomer, smiled brightly and turned to them. “Sanghee, Azalea,” he said, his voice full of excitement, “I’d like to introduce you to our friend Kai. He’s in multiple groups. His main one is EXO, but he’s also part of SuperM.”
Azalea immediately felt a surge of embarrassment flood her cheeks. She hadn’t been paying attention, and now, it seemed like she’d missed an opportunity to properly greet someone. Her face reddened, and she quickly looked up at Kai, trying to recover. “Oh, I’m so sorry! I didn’t know you were coming over,” she said, her words stumbling out. “I didn’t mean to be rude.”
Sanghee, on the other hand, greeted him with the familiarity of someone who knew exactly who he was. She smiled warmly at Kai. “It’s so nice to meet you,” she said. “I’ve heard a lot about you and your groups.”
Azalea smiled awkwardly, still flustered. “I hope you’re having a great time tonight,” she said, trying to keep her composure. “Penny really put her heart and soul into this event. It’s everything to her.”
Kai, noticing her nerves, smiled kindly. “I am, thank you. She did an amazing job. Everything looks fantastic.” His tone was warm and friendly, putting Azalea at ease slightly.
She couldn’t help but blush slightly at the compliment, feeling a mix of gratitude and nervousness.
As Kai rejoined the guys, continuing their conversation, Azalea tried to return to her discussion with Sanghee. However, the encounter had left her heart racing, and she couldn’t shake the feeling of being out of her depth. Her thoughts swirled as she tried to calm herself, but she was still flustered from the interaction. It felt like everything was moving so quickly, and she wasn’t sure how much more she could take. The crowd, the introductions, the pressure to keep up it was all starting to feel like too much.
She had already met members from so many groups—Seventeen, EXO, BTS, NCT 127, SHINee, and The Rose—but there were still so many people she hadn’t met yet. The number of groups and faces was overwhelming, and she wasn’t sure how to keep up with it all. Her nerves were beginning to get the best of her, but she didn’t want to show it. She didn’t want to burden anyone with her feelings of being overwhelmed. Instead, she forced a smile and tried to focus on her conversation with Sanghee, hoping the night would become more manageable as it went on.
As the laughter died down, the guys settled back into their spots, and the conversation shifted. They resumed their earlier discussion with enthusiasm, catching up on what they had missed and reminiscing about old times. But soon, their attention turned back to the girls.
Minhyuk leaned forward with a mischievous grin. “Hey, you two, what are you talking about? Is it secret girly stuff that we can’t hear?” he asked playfully.
Azalea smiled and shook her head, a light laugh escaping her. “No, Minnie, we’re just talking about Adam Sandler movies right now, but that’s not where it all started. You can go back to whatever you were doing,” she teased.
Jooheon, never one to miss out on a chance for fun, chimed in with a raised eyebrow. “Wait, but what if we want to join in?”
Sanghee followed up, her voice teasing as well. “Yeah, well, what if you guys get busy again? We ain’t going to wait for you.”
The playful banter had everyone laughing, even Azalea, who was trying to keep herself composed. The tension she had been holding in started to ease a little, even though her heart was still racing from the overwhelming atmosphere. She was managing to play it off well, pretending like everything was fine. Surprisingly, Jooheon hadn’t caught on yet, which made her feel like she was doing a decent job of keeping her anxiety in check.
As the group continued their lighthearted exchange, Penelope made her way back over to check on her friends. Her presence was always a welcomed one, and Azalea appreciated the concern she always showed for those she cared about. “Hey everyone, how are you guys enjoying the night? Sorry, I’m just now getting back over to you. You know how these events go,” Penelope said with an apologetic smile.
Azalea smiled, hoping to reassure her friend that everything was fine. “We’re all having a good time, Penny. Don’t worry. Whatever we needed, we’ve gotten on our own, like we should be. I’m in good hands over here,” she said, her tone warm and light to avoid raising suspicion.
Kihyun added, leaning back with a grin, “Yeah babe, we’re fine. Don’t worry about us. You’ve got other guests to look after. You have us every other day,” he said before planting a quick kiss on Penelope’s cheek.
Penelope smiled, grateful for the reassurance but also knowing she still had a lot to juggle. “Alright, alright. I’ll check in with the others, but I’m glad you’re all doing well,” she said before walking off to mingle with the rest of the guests.
Azalea watched her go, feeling a small sense of relief. She had managed to hide how overwhelmed she truly felt for a bit longer, and as long as Penelope couldn’t see through her, she was going to keep playing it cool. With a deep breath, Azalea focused on staying present, hoping the night would continue without too many more surprises.
About twenty minutes later, the group was in the middle of a lively conversation when someone suddenly leaped onto Jooheon’s lap, causing a ripple of surprise. Azalea’s heart skipped a beat, and for a moment, she forgot how to breathe. She froze, not knowing what had just happened.
“JACKSON!” Jooheon exclaimed, breaking into a wide grin as he wrapped his arms around the man who had so boldly jumped into his lap. Azalea watched, still startled, as the two embraced like long-lost brothers. Once the mystery man climbed off Jooheon’s lap, the two stood up. They shared another hug, their joy at reuniting evident in their animated conversation.
“What’s up, man? How have you been? It’s been a minute since I’ve seen you. I missed you, dude!” Jooheon said, his voice filled with genuine warmth.
Jackson grinned back, clapping Jooheon on the shoulder. “I missed you too, man. Life’s been crazy, but it’s so good to see you.”
The rest of the guys quickly joined in, each taking their turn to greet Jackson with hugs and laughter. It became clear to Azalea that while the entire group was close to Jackson, there was something powerful about the bond he shared with Jooheon. Watching their reunion was heartwarming, but Azalea’s own emotions began to overwhelm her. Her heart was racing, and the crowded atmosphere was starting to press down on her. She felt like she was nearing her limit.
Just as she debated whether to excuse herself, Jooheon turned and gestured toward her and Sanghee. “Hey, Jackson, let me introduce you to our friends. This is Azalea, and this is Sanghee. Ladies, this is Jackson Wang. He’s part of GOT7.”
Azalea, preparing to offer her usual polite bow and greeting, was entirely caught off guard when Jackson stepped forward and pulled her into a hug. “It’s nice to meet you, Azalea,” he said warmly.
Her body stiffened at the unexpected contact, but she quickly masked her discomfort, knowing the guys were watching. She could feel their eyes widen, knowing they understood how she typically reacted to touch from strangers. Summoning her composure, she managed to smile. “It’s nice to meet you too, Jackson,” she said, her voice steady even as her pulse raced.
Jackson turned to Sanghee and gave her the same enthusiastic hug. “It’s nice to meet you, Sanghee.”
Sanghee, less fazed by the sudden embrace, smiled back. “Nice to meet you too, Jackson.”
Jackson turned his attention back to Azalea, and she took the opportunity to steer the conversation, hoping to appear as comfortable as possible. “How long have you and the guys known each other? I can tell you’re all really close,” she said, doing her best to keep her voice light.
Jackson laughed, rubbing the back of his neck. “It’s been over a decade now. I’ve honestly lost track of the exact year, but yeah, we’ve been through a lot together.”
Sanghee chimed in, “That’s amazing. It’s rare to see friendships that strong these days.”
Azalea nodded, blushing slightly as she added, “Sorry if I’m asking obvious questions. I’m still new to all of this, and I don’t know much about anyone yet.”
Jackson waved her concern away with a smile. “No worries at all! It’s nice to meet someone fresh to the scene. I’m getting to know someone completely new, too.”
The vibrant hum of conversation and laughter surrounded Azalea like an unrelenting wave, each sound crashing harder against her fragile nerves. Her chest tightened with every passing second. She smiled faintly, her mask of composure perfectly in place as the group carried on, oblivious to the storm raging inside her. When the guys shifted their focus to another lively discussion, she saw her chance. Quietly, carefully, she slipped out of the room, her heart pounding so fiercely it echoed in her ears.
The moment she stepped into the solitude of the bathroom, her composure shattered like glass. Her hands fumbled to lock the stall door as the first tear slipped free, quickly followed by another, then another. A sob escaped her lips before she could catch it, her body trembling as she leaned against the cold metal wall. What was I thinking? The words repeated like a cruel mantra in her mind. I don’t belong here. This is too much. I’m too much.
Her breathing became shallow as shame and self-doubt consumed her. Every comforting word the guys had offered earlier replayed in her mind, only now they felt hollow. They said I wasn’t a burden, that I could tell them if I felt overwhelmed. But how could I? How can I admit that I’m falling apart in front of everyone? She bit her lip hard, the pain a small anchor against the rising tide of her emotions. How pathetic am I, a grown adult, hiding in a bathroom because I can’t handle a party? There’s only one way to fix this. I need to leave. I can’t do this anymore.
The thought stung, bringing fresh tears. She clutched her phone, her shaking fingers navigating to the ride-share app. Her vision blurred as she confirmed the pickup, relief and panic warring within her as the screen displayed: Your driver is two minutes away. That wasn’t much time. She splashed cold water on her face, but it did little to hide the redness around her eyes or the puffiness in her cheeks. I just need to get outside without anyone seeing me.
She peeked out into the hallway, holding her breath as she scanned for any sign of someone who might stop her. The coast was clear. Bolting down the hall, she reached the door and pushed it open, the cool night air hitting her like a slap. The car pulled up at the curb, and she climbed in, her hands clutching her bag tightly as she gave the driver a weak smile.
The drive home passed in silence, the streetlights blurring into streaks of light through her tear-filled eyes. As soon as she stepped through her door, she kicked off her shoes and went straight to her room. Her dress slid off in a crumpled heap, replaced by an oversized hoodie that felt like a cocoon against the world.
She turned her phone to vibrate, not wanting to deal with any notifications or calls. She crawled into bed, her body sinking into the mattress as exhaustion overtook her. Tomorrow, she’d have to explain everything to Charli. She dreaded the conversation, but for now, all she wanted was sleep, a reprieve from the weight of her emotions. Pulling the covers over her head, she let out a shaky sigh, wishing for an escape from the overwhelming ache in her chest.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a like, reblog, notes, and/or a message in my inbox! I would love to hear your feedback! ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆
Saturday morning brought a sense of anticipation unlike any other for Azalea. The sunlight streaming through her curtains felt brighter, the air lighter, and the nervous energy in her chest stronger. This day was special, and she was determined, one step at a time, to make the most of it.
She lingered in bed for a few extra moments, letting herself wallow in the calm before the whirlwind of the evening. Picking up her phone, she typed out a quick message to Jooheon:
Azzy: Good morning ☀️Shine! See you later tonight 😊.
Hitting send, she smiled, imagining him reading the message. His presence, even through a simple text, brought a bit of reassurance.
Azalea swung her legs out of bed, ready to start the day. First on her list was a long shower, followed by a relaxing bath soak, a small ritual to calm her nerves and help her feel refreshed. Tonight was going to be a lot, and she needed every bit of tranquility she could gather beforehand.
The difference today was that Penelope had insisted that the girls get ready together at their place. It was a comforting thought, knowing she wouldn’t be alone for those final, nerve-wracking hours leading up to the event.
Penelope would be arriving soon to pick her up, and Azalea was grateful for the support. She wasn’t just nervous about the party itself, but about stepping into a world she didn’t entirely know, surrounded by people who were part of a lifestyle she could only imagine.
She reminded herself of her plan: take everything as it comes, lean on her friends, and enjoy the moment as much as possible. With that resolve, Azalea began her morning routine, the excitement and nervousness swirling together like a perfect storm in her chest.
When Azalea and Penelope arrived at the apartment, Azalea was met with a scene she never could have anticipated. The living room had been transformed into a Salon Suite, complete with hairstylists and makeup artists setting up their tools. The air buzzed with excitement, and the faint scent of hair products and cosmetics filled the air.
Azalea stood frozen for a moment, taking it all in. Her chest tightened, and her eyes filled with tears. This was something she had only seen in movies or dreamed about, never imagining it could be part of her reality.
“Penelope…” Azalea’s voice broke as she turned to her friend, tears streaming down her cheeks. “This is incredible. I’ve never had anything like this done for me. Thank you so much.”
Penelope smiled warmly and wrapped her arms around Azalea in a tight hug. “Azzy, don’t cry! You’re going to make me cry too!” she laughed softly, though her eyes glistened with emotion. “I wanted us to have a special day. I’m so glad you’re here to experience this with us. You deserve this, Azzy. You really do.”
Azalea clung to Penelope, overwhelmed with gratitude and love. It wasn’t just about the hair and makeup or the preparations for the evening. It was about being seen and valued in a way she hadn’t expected. Penelope’s thoughtfulness left her feeling deeply cherished.
“Thank you for including me in this, Penny,” Azalea whispered. “I feel so loved right now.”
“You are loved,” Penelope replied, gently wiping a stray tear from Azalea’s cheek. “Now, let’s get to it! Tonight is going to be amazing, and you’re going to look absolutely stunning.”
With that, Azalea allowed herself to be swept up in the magic of the moment, her nerves beginning to settle as the professionals worked their magic. Every touch of a brush and every styled curl felt like a step closer to stepping into a new, exciting chapter of her life.
Since Sanghee and Azalea were Penelope’s guests and riding with her, they arrived early at the venue. Penelope needed to ensure everything was in order before the guests arrived, leaving Azalea and Sanghee a bit of time to explore the space.
The large banquet room was breathtaking, with an elegant yet inviting layout. Rows of tables and chairs were meticulously arranged for dining and socializing, each adorned with delicate centerpieces that complemented the room’s decor. Scattered throughout were plush reclining chairs, cozy love seats, and sleek couches, creating an atmosphere that was both sophisticated and comfortable. The overall vibe was warm and welcoming, with natural lighting flooding the room and highlighting the beautiful details.
Azalea took her time absorbing her surroundings. She noted the thoughtfully designed layout, making mental notes of key areas. A door near the main entrance led to a hallway with restrooms, and she was grateful to know the route ahead of time. Navigating unfamiliar spaces could be challenging for her, especially when anxiety sets in. This advanced familiarity gave her a sense of control and calm.
As she moved through the space, her eyes wandered to the high ceilings adorned with intricate chandeliers, the subtle yet elegant drapery along the walls, and the way the room’s ambiance seemed to promise an unforgettable evening. She suspected the lighting would shift later, perhaps dimming to create a more intimate and festive atmosphere.
“This is a beautiful setup,” Azalea remarked softly to Sanghee, who was also scanning the room with quiet admiration.
“It really is,” Sanghee agreed, her tone reflecting the same appreciation. “Penelope knows how to plan something special.”
Azalea nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. She was grateful for this early opportunity to orient herself, knowing it would help her feel more grounded once the room began to fill with guests. As she stood there, she resolved to take everything one step at a time, leaning on the sense of comfort and familiarity she was building in these quiet moments before the event officially began.
Penelope joined Sanghee and Azalea with a glowing smile.
“How did it go, Penny? Is everything good?” Sanghee asked, her tone warm and curious.
“Everything is perfect,” Penelope replied, her satisfaction evident.
“It looks great, Penny. You did a wonderful job. Thank you again for the invitation,” Azalea added with a soft smile.
“Thank you, Azzy. And thank you both for coming. I’m so excited it’s finally here,” Penelope said, her voice brimming with excitement.
As she finished her sentence, the lights in the banquet hall dimmed slightly, transforming the atmosphere into something more intimate and magical. Penelope’s eyes lit up, and her smile grew even brighter. It was clear to Azalea that this was the moment Penelope had been eagerly anticipating, the arrival of the guests.
Azalea felt her nerves spike. Her mind raced with questions: Who would walk through the door first? When would the guys arrive? Would she feel comfortable in the crowd? She took a deep breath, determined not to let her anxiety show. She didn’t want to distract Penelope from enjoying her moment.
The three girls stood together, focusing on each other and chatting to stay relaxed. Suddenly, the sound of familiar voices filled the room, pulling Azalea’s attention toward the entrance.
Kihyun, Minhyuk, and Jooheon were the first to walk through, and their lively conversation and laughter made them easily recognizable. Azalea instantly felt a wave of relief wash over her. Following closely behind were Changkyun, Hyungwon, and Shownu, each adding to the warmth of the group as they approached.
“Thank you all so much for coming!” Penelope said warmly, embracing Kihyun with extra hugs and kisses. Sanghee similarly greeted Minhyuk, their joy evident.
Jooheon lingered slightly behind the group, his eyes briefly landing on Azalea. His breath caught as he took in her appearance. She looked stunning, her dress accentuating her beauty in a way that stirred his feelings. He quickly masked his emotions, not wanting anyone to catch on to them.
Azalea stood in front of the guys, her A-line Illusion Scoop Asymmetrical Satin Lace dress in Dusty Rose catching the dimmed lighting of the banquet room just perfectly. The sleeveless design highlighted her graceful shoulders, while the scoop-neck illusion bodice, adorned with a delicate swirling black embroidered pattern, added an elegant contrast to the softness of the satin fabric.
The intricate black embroidery on the bodice framed the sweetheart lining beneath, creating a captivating focal point. As she shifted slightly, the high-low asymmetrical skirt swayed gracefully, its hem trimmed with matching black lace that subtly peeked out, adding a trendy and polished touch. The banded waist accentuated her silhouette, showcasing her poise and confidence.
Hyungwon was the first to break the silence, his voice warm and genuine. “Azalea, you look amazing tonight. That dress is stunning.”
“Pink really is your color,” Shownu added with a smile, his tone calm and assured.
Changkyun, ever the jokester, winked and teased, “Maybe we should start calling you Pinky.”
Azalea laughed, her nerves momentarily eased. “If you do that, I.M, I may have to punch your pretty face,” she replied playfully, causing everyone to chuckle.
As the lighthearted banter continued, Azalea caught a glimpse of Jooheon standing quietly, his expression unreadable. Yet, his gaze lingered on her a moment longer than usual. While the others continued chatting, she felt a small sense of comfort amidst her nerves. The night was only beginning, but for now, surrounded by her friends, she felt a little more at ease.
Penelope excused herself to begin mingling and welcoming guests as more people filtered into the banquet room. The guys stayed behind with Sanghee and Azalea, continuing their lighthearted conversation. However, as the room grew busier and filled with groups and members from the organization, Azalea’s nerves began to spike. She tried to focus on the conversation, but the growing noise and crowd made her uneasy.
Jooheon noticed her fidgeting and the distant look in her eyes. He stepped closer to her and spoke softly, “Hey, you wanna go outside and get some fresh air? It’s getting a little stuffy in here, and I was heading out anyway.”
Azalea looked up at him, realizing he was offering her a way to decompress. She gave a small smile. “Sure, I’ll join you.”
They slipped quietly through the door and stepped outside into the cool evening air. The noise from the banquet room faded, giving way to a peaceful calm. Azalea exhaled deeply, grateful for the momentary escape. “Thank you, Joo. I was starting to feel a bit overwhelmed in there,” she admitted.
Jooheon gave her a knowing look. “I could tell by the look in your eyes, Azzy. You can’t hide that from me. That’s why I asked. I wasn’t really hot. I knew you wouldn’t say anything if I didn’t.”
She blinked, surprised by his perceptiveness. “You can really tell just by looking at me? Can anyone else? Or is this something only you notice?”
Jooheon shrugged, a slight grin on his face. “I guess it’s just me. I’ve gotten pretty good at reading you.”
Azalea laughed softly. “Well, thank you. I’m actually having a good time so far, but I definitely needed this little break. I didn’t realize how many people would be here. I guess I didn’t think the groups would be so big. The boy bands I am used to max out at five members,” she said with a giggle.
Jooheon chuckled. “Yeah, I get that; you’re doing great. Ready to head back in? It’s been a few minutes, and I don’t want anyone to think you disappeared for too long. Gotta keep things low-key.”
She nodded, appreciating his thoughtfulness. “Let’s go.”
Together, they walked back into the banquet room, Azalea feeling slightly more at ease with Jooheon by her side.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a like, reblog, notes, and/or a message in my inbox! I would love to hear your feedback! ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆
Monday morning, Azalea stepped out into the crisp air, feeling a small surge of excitement as she dropped her RSVP into the postbox on her way to the café. The weight of the envelope as it left her hands was like a promise to herself to seize the opportunity that awaited her.
As she unlocked the door to the cozy café, the smell of freshly roasted coffee beans and pastries greeted her, a comfort she’d grown used to. The quiet hum of early-morning prep gave her time to think about something pressing: what on earth would she wear to the event?
Azalea wiped down the counter while mulling over her options. This wasn’t just any event. It was her first time stepping into that world alongside Jooheon and the rest of the group. She wanted to strike the perfect balance of looking confident and staying true to herself.
The answer was clear: she needed Penelope. Shopping with Penelope was always an adventure. Azalea smiled at the thought of the two of them sifting through clothing racks, laughing at outrageous outfits, and hunting for the perfect dress. Penelope’s eye for style was unmatched, and Azalea knew she’d feel more prepared with her friend by her side.
Azalea planned how she’d pitch the shopping trip throughout her shift as she poured lattes and greeted regulars with a warm smile. After the last rush of the day, she would send Penelope a message to touch base if they could hang out and spend time together; that way, they could plan and prepare for the event. The excitement bubbled up, making her day behind the counter feel lighter.
As she served the final customer before closing, Azalea couldn’t help but feel grateful for the small café. This place kept her grounded while she prepared to enter a new chapter of her life. The week ahead promised both challenges and joy, and she was ready for it all.
When Azalea got home, she removed her shoes, settled onto the bed, and pulled out her phone. Typing quickly, she sent a message to Penelope:
Azzy: Hey, Penny, I sent my RSVP out today, like I told you. When I was at work, I realized I need to find an outfit for the event. Let me know when you’re free one of these weekends so we can go shopping. I will definitely need your help and expertise to find the right thing!
Azalea hit send, feeling a little flutter of excitement. Penelope’s enthusiasm for fashion was contagious, and the idea of a shopping trip together lifted her spirits.
Penelope’s notification pinged a few moments later, and she glanced at her phone. Seeing Azalea’s name, she smiled and opened the message.
Penelope quickly typed her reply:
Penny: Hey, Azzy. Thank you for letting me know you sent the RSVP. I would LOVE to go shopping with you! I will check my schedule and let you know when I’m free. A shopping date sounds like a lot of fun. I’m excited!
Azalea’s phone buzzed as Penelope’s response came through. Reading the text, Azalea grinned, already looking forward to their time together. She could practically hear Penelope’s excitement in the text.
After setting her phone aside, Azalea leaned back with a sense of relief. With Penelope’s help, she knew she’d find the perfect outfit and maybe even gain a little extra confidence to face the upcoming event.
The party was just a week away, and Azalea’s excitement was starting to blend with a growing nervousness. A couple of weeks earlier, she had managed to find a beautiful dress during a shopping trip with Penelope. This memory brought a small smile to her face. But as the event drew closer, her mind began to race with questions and concerns.
She was thrilled to spend time with the group in their element, eager to see the dynamic that made them so special. Yet, the thought of being surrounded by new faces made her stomach twist. How many people would actually be there? If most groups were as large as theirs, originally seven and now six members, a “small gathering” could easily mean dozens of people.
Azalea worried about how she might handle the crowd. Would she cling too much to Jooheon, Penelope, or the others for support? She didn’t want to seem overly dependent or needy, especially in front of strangers. It wasn’t just about appearances. She genuinely wanted to make a good impression and confidently navigate the evening.
One lingering question bothered her, though: Would Wonho be there? Penelope had never mentioned whether he was invited or planned to attend. Azalea didn’t know much about his current business relationship with the group, and she wondered how seeing him might affect the dynamic.
Taking a deep breath, Azalea decided she needed to focus on preparing herself mentally for the event. The outfit was ready, but she knew confidence would be her most important accessory. Maybe she’d call Penelope later to discuss things or even ask Jooheon for tips on what to expect. She resolved to push aside her doubts and take things one step at a time.
Azalea knew her primary focus had to be getting through the week at the café. It was always a mix of steady new faces and the occasional rush of regulars, and the familiar rhythm of taking orders, brewing coffee, and making pastries usually helped keep her grounded.
This week, though, every task seemed like a countdown to the event. Each latte Azalea poured, and every pastry she arranged on a plate reminded her that the big day was drawing closer. Between the comforting hum of the espresso machine and the soft chatter of customers, her mind kept wandering back to the party.
What would it be like to step into their world? To meet other people who shared such a unique bond with the group? Would she be able to blend in, or would she stick out as someone who didn’t quite belong? The questions buzzed in her head like the café’s background noise.
Still, she reminded herself to take it one day at a time. Her co-worker Minho noticed Azalea’s slightly distracted mood as they closed up for the evening and teasingly asked, “Got something big coming up this weekend, Azalea?” Azalea just smiled and said, “Kind of. Just trying to get through this week first.”
She knew Minho wasn’t far off. All Azalea could do now was focus on finishing her shifts, staying present, and holding onto the excitement beneath her nerves. Once Saturday rolled around, she’d be ready, or at least as ready as possible.
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Saturday afternoon, Jooheon arrived at Azalea’s apartment promptly at 1:00 p.m., his demeanor casually warm. Azalea greeted him at the door with a radiant smile and wrapped him in a quick hug.
“Thanks for coming over, Joo. I’ve been so used to being around everyone that I didn’t know what I’d do this weekend if I were stuck here alone,” she admitted with a light laugh, her voice tinged with relief.
“Anytime, Azzy,” Jooheon replied, stepping inside and removing his shoes. “We’re on a break right now, so I’ve got time. It’ll be harder to have these moments once we’re back in the studio and gearing up for tours.”
Hearing his words, Azalea felt a sadness she hadn’t expected. The thought of Jooheon and the guys being busy and away created an ache in her chest. She realized how much their presence had become a source of comfort and happiness. She didn’t know how to handle that thought. The idea of less communication with Jooheon hurt the most.
“Hey, Azzy, are you okay?” Jooheon’s gentle voice pulled her from her spiraling thoughts. “You zoned out for a minute. Were you thinking about something heavy?”
Azalea blinked, startled. “Oh, sorry, Joo. I guess my thoughts got the better of me again.” She gave him a sheepish smile. “I hadn’t really planned anything for today. We could watch movies, go shopping, or grab food, whatever sounds good to you.”
Jooheon chuckled, noticing her flustered expression. “You do that a lot, huh? Drift off into your own world?” he teased, giving her a playful nudge.
Her cheeks flushed. “Yeah, I guess I do. Sorry about that.”
“Don’t apologize. It’s part of your charm,” he said with a grin. “How about we just stay in and talk for a bit? If we feel like going out later, we can. No pressure.”
“That sounds perfect,” Azalea agreed, visibly relaxing. “I’m awful at making decisions. It makes me uncomfortable sometimes.” She glanced away, embarrassed.
Jooheon’s gaze softened. Why is she so adorable when she blushes? He thought before quickly shaking off the notion. “No problem. We’ve got all day, so there’s no rush. Speaking of decisions, have you thought more about Penny’s event?”
Azalea nodded, her face brightening. “I have, actually. You helped me a lot with that. Hold on, let me message Penny real quick.”
She grabbed her phone and sent Penelope a response:
Azzy: Hey Penny, I’ve thought about the event and decided to give it a shot! I’ll fill out the RSVP and send it off first thing Monday since I missed the mail today. Thanks for thinking of me!
Putting her phone down, Azalea turned back to Jooheon. “I’m actually excited now. I can’t wait to see you guys in your element. It’s going to be like watching lions on a safari.”
She giggled at her own analogy.
Jooheon raised an eyebrow, feigning offense. “Really, Azzy? Lions? Are we just animals to you?” he teased, smirking.
She laughed. “In the best way possible, of course!”
“Alright, alright. So, what do you want to do now?” Jooheon asked.
“Honestly, can we just stay in? I don’t really feel like going out,” Azalea admitted. “Do you want to watch a movie? And don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be Marvel. I like all kinds of movies.”
“Okay, then what’s your all-time favorite?” Jooheon asked, curious.
“That’s tough,” she said, biting her lip. “But for this time of year, it’s The Crow. It’s a childhood favorite of mine. It’s perfect for October.”
“The Crow? Sounds good to me. Let’s watch it,” Jooheon agreed.
Azalea pulled up her digital movie library and started the film. They settled onto her bed. Azalea cocooned under a pile of pillows and blankets while Jooheon leaned comfortably beside her.
As the movie played, Azalea couldn’t help but feel a swirl of emotions. The Crow had always resonated with her deeply, its themes of love, loss, and redemption striking a chord. The tragic death of Brandon Lee during filming only added to its sadness. She glanced at Jooheon, grateful for his presence. Somehow, he always made her feel safe even when the storm of her emotions threatened to overwhelm her.
And for Jooheon, sitting beside Azalea and watching her reactions to the film, he found himself noticing all the little things that made her... her: the way she’d clutch the blanket during tense scenes, the glimmer of unshed tears in her eyes, and the small smiles that appeared during tender moments.
What is this feeling? He wondered silently. But for now, he let it be, content to simply enjoy the quiet moments they shared.
By the time the credits rolled on The Crow, Azalea couldn’t hold back her tears any longer. The haunting melody of the ending credits song filled the room as she let her emotions flow freely. The movie’s soundtrack was one of her favorites, and it resonated deeply with her. Charli is the only person who ever knew how much the movie meant to her because she was there through the tough times.
Jooheon, noticing her silent tears, leaned over and wrapped her in a gentle embrace. He didn’t speak, just held her, letting his presence reassure her that it was okay to let it all out.
“I’m sorry,” Azalea murmured, her voice trembling. “This movie always gets to me. There’s just so much behind it, beyond the storyline. It’s always affected me, ever since I was a kid.” She wiped her face and gave him a small, watery smile. “Okay, your turn. You get to pick the next one.”
Jooheon scanned her movie library, which was impressively varied, ranging from romance to horror and everything in between. His eyes lit up when he spotted something. “Let’s watch Deadpool. It has the same theme of revenge and redemption, but with much more humor. Plus, you can’t go wrong with it.”
She laughed and nodded. “Good choice.”
As the movie played, Azalea turned to Jooheon during a quieter moment, her eyes sparkling. “I’ve been meaning to tell you something. It was supposed to be a surprise, but everything that happened last weekend threw me off.” She paused, smiling shyly. “I started listening to your guys’ music. And honestly? I love it. You’re all amazing.”
Jooheon’s eyes widened in surprise. “Really?”
She nodded enthusiastically. “I wanted to be prepared after I met you and Shownu, and I thought I had time before mini golf to dive in. But then we had your birthday party, and everything moved so fast. I also avoided the internet completely. I didn’t want to watch any music videos or interviews. I just wanted to know you guys, not the image people try to portray online.”
Jooheon chuckled, shaking his head. “Azzy, you’re incredible, you know that? Most people don’t even think about separating us from our image. It’s refreshing.” He smirked mischievously. “Although if you’d watched our music videos, you’d have seen Wonho in the older ones.”
Azalea grinned. “Well, as one wise group once said, hindsight is 20/20.”
He gave her a mock glare, and they both burst out laughing.
“I’m glad I waited,” she admitted. “Meeting you all at the party first made a difference. It helped me see the real you. If mini golf had been the first time, I’m not sure how things would’ve gone without knowing everyone’s dynamic.”
Jooheon’s expression grew serious. He leaned in and hugged her tightly. “Azzy, I’ll always be sorry for what happened at mini golf. I never want to hurt you like that again.”
She returned his embrace, her hand soothingly rubbing his back. “I know, Joo. I forgave you. Don’t punish yourself for it anymore, okay? We’re good.”
When Deadpool ended, the lighthearted energy returned. They decided to order dinner, debating over takeout options and joking about which dishes would make the best post-movie snacks. The night was far from over, but it was already shaping up to be one of those memories Azalea would cherish forever.
As the clock struck midnight, Azalea and Jooheon reluctantly acknowledged it was time for him to head back to the dorms. They had spent hours making memories, sharing laughs, and deepening their connection, but reality beckoned. Both knew they needed to sleep at some point, and Azalea didn’t have the accommodations for guests.
They hugged at the door, a warm embrace that lingered a moment longer than usual. “Good night, Azzy,” Jooheon said softly as he entered the quiet hallway.
“Good night, Joo,” she replied, her voice touched with an inexplicable sadness. Azalea felt a pang in her chest as the door closed behind him, an ache she hadn’t expected. She quickly grabbed her phone and typed a message:
Azzy: Please let me know when you’re home safely. I won’t be able to sleep until then.
Moments later, her phone buzzed with Jooheon’s reply.
Joo: I will, Azzy. Don’t worry.
Feeling slightly reassured, Azalea climbed into bed and turned on The Office for background noise. The familiar humor was comforting, but her thoughts drifted back to Jooheon.
About thirty minutes later, her phone’s screen lit up again.
Joo: I’m home and in my room. Sweet dreams, Azzy.
A small smile crept onto her face as she responded.
Azzy: Thank you, Joo. Good night.
Placing her phone on the nightstand, Azalea closed her eyes, her heart still fluttering from the day’s events. She knew she’d have to talk to Charli tomorrow, and the thought made her chuckle softly. Charli would definitely have some strong opinions about everything that had transpired.
As the soft sounds of The Office filled the room, Azalea drifted off to sleep, wondering what the future held for her and Jooheon.
Charli answered the video call with a groggy expression, raising an eyebrow at the radiant smile on Azalea’s face. “It is way too early for you to be that happy, Azzy Baby. What’s going on?”
Azalea laughed and leaned closer to the screen. “Oh, C.J., so much! I invited Jooheon over yesterday because I didn’t have any plans. I’ve gotten so used to being around everyone that the thought of being alone all weekend was kind of terrifying. Plus, I figured Penny and Kiki deserved a break from me. They’ve been so amazing, and I didn’t want to bother them.”
Charli rubbed her eyes, already sensing this was going to be an interesting story. “So, does that mean you guys worked everything out from last weekend?”
Azalea nodded enthusiastically. “Yes! I know I didn’t explain everything before, but we discussed it when he came over. Penny saw your birthday post, and everyone surprised me with those flowers I posted. Yesterday, we stayed in, talked, watched movies, and had dinner. It was nice, honestly.”
Charli tilted her head, studying Azalea momentarily before asking, “Azzy, I have a serious question for you. Do you have feelings for Jooheon?”
Azalea’s eyes widened in shock. “What? No, C.J., we’re just friends! Why would you even ask that?”
“I was just wondering,” Charli said with a shrug, her tone light but curious. “I’m glad you two could talk it out and stay friends, though. You need all the friends and support you can get, especially with me being so far away.”
The girls spent the next hour catching up on their week, laughing, and sharing stories. Before they knew it, 8:00 a.m. had arrived, and they reluctantly said their goodbyes.
After the call ended, Azalea sat on her bed, Charli’s question lingering in her mind. Did she have feelings for Jooheon? No, that couldn’t be it. They were just friends. These odd feelings must be because the friendship was new and uncharted territory.
Shaking her head, she pushed the thought aside and got up to start her day, ready to prepare for the week ahead. But somewhere in the back of her mind, Charli’s question refused to fade completely.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a like, reblog, notes, and/or a message in my inbox! I would love to hear your feedback! ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆
Later that week, Penelope stopped by the café to see Azalea. Azalea looked up and smiled brightly while she was busy wiping down the counter. “Hey, Penny! How are you today? How’s work going?” she asked warmly.
Penelope returned the smile, adjusting her bag on her shoulder as she leaned against the counter. “Hey, Azzy! I’m doing well. Actually, work is the reason I stopped by.” She paused for a moment, her eyes twinkling with excitement. “So, you know I’ve been planning this big event for my company, right? Well, I get to invite a few friends to it. I already gave Sanghee her invitation, and now I’m here to give you one too.”
Reaching into her bag, Penelope pulled out a sleek, embossed envelope and handed it to Azalea. “Make sure you RSVP as soon as you can,” she added with a grin.
Azalea took the envelope, tucking it into the pocket of her apron with a grateful nod. “Thank you, Penny. I’ll take a look at it when I have a break. Now, let me get your order,” she said, setting the envelope aside for the moment and moving toward the register.
Penelope watched her with a fond smile. “Take your time, Azzy. No rush.”
Penelope picked up her to-go order with a cheerful goodbye to Azalea and returned to the office. As she walked, her excitement for the upcoming event mixed with a hint of nervousness. The event culminated months of planning, and she couldn’t wait for it all to come together. As thrilled as she was, Penelope couldn’t help but worry about Azalea.
The invitation wasn’t just for any gathering. It was a high-profile event that would draw a small crowd of celebrities and industry professionals. Penelope knew Azalea wasn’t used to unfamiliar crowds, especially in settings as dazzling and fast-paced as this one. While the guys being there might provide some comfort, Penelope worried it still might be overwhelming.
Azalea’s introverted nature and discomfort in unfamiliar social situations weighed on Penelope’s mind. Adding to that was the fact that the event would feature idols, individuals from a world Azalea wasn’t familiar with. Penelope didn’t want Azalea to feel like she was being thrown into the deep end without preparation.
As she returned to her desk, Penelope resolved to take action. She decided that after work, she’d send Azalea a thoughtful text explaining more about the event. She wanted to give her friend a clear picture of what to expect so Azalea could confidently decide whether to attend.
“I just don’t want her to feel blindsided,” Penelope thought. “She deserves to know what she’s walking into. It’s the least I can do.”
That evening, Azalea was relaxing when her phone buzzed with a text from Penelope:
Penny: Hey, Azzy, I wanted to tell you a little about this event so you can make the right decision. It’s a mingle mixer with idols and people from my company. It’s not too formal, just a casual get-together for everyone to catch up since many haven’t seen each other in ages due to tours, military service, or life. The guys will be there, Sanghee will be there, and, of course, I’ll be there, too. Just think about it. You don’t have to decide tonight, but the sooner, the better, since we need a headcount. I didn’t want you to feel blindsided because I know how you feel about unknown people and big crowds.
Azalea smiled at the message, feeling touched by Penelope’s thoughtfulness. Someone rarely went out of their way to ensure she felt comfortable in situations like this. She quickly typed a response:
Azzy: Thank you for letting me know about the party. I’ll consider everything you said and let you know what I decide.
After sending her reply, Azalea sat in thought for a few moments. She decided to reach out to Jooheon, knowing he’d give her honest and supportive advice.
Azzy: Hey Joo, I’ve got a question. Do you think you can talk through something with me?
Almost immediately, his reply came back:
Joo: Of course, Azzy. You don’t have to ask me that, you silly girl.
She chuckled at his response and started explaining.
Azzy: Penny came by the café today to give me an invitation to her event. She just texted me about what it actually is. I’m kind of worried and nervous about it. I know you all will be there, which is my saving grace, but I don’t know anything about your world or anyone else who’s going to be there. I have enochlophobia, so I’m kind of scared about being there. I feel like if I don’t go, I’ll disappoint Penny and you guys. What do I do?
Jooheon’s reply came after a moment.
Joo: I can’t tell you what to do. That’s your decision, Azzy. But I can tell you this, you’ll be safe with us if you go. Like our little sister, you’re family. We’ll protect you. Stay with any of us, and if you ever feel uncomfortable, just say the word. We’ll do whatever it takes to help you feel okay. You know Penny would never put you in a position to make you feel uneasy.
Azalea reread his words and nodded to herself. He was right. Penelope would never intentionally put herself in a difficult spot. She smiled as she texted him back.
Azzy: Thank you so much, Joo. You’re so right. This is why I wanted to talk to you. You always put my crazy mind at ease.
Jooheon responded almost instantly.
Joo: Your mind may be crazy, but it’s my crazy.
Azalea giggled, feeling lighter than she had all day. She knew she’d think on it a little more, but Jooheon’s reassurance had already begun to ease her fears.
Later that evening, Azalea stared at her phone, debating whether or not to send a message she’d typed and erased twice already. Finally, taking a deep breath, she decided to go for it.
Azzy: Hey Joo, I have a question, only if you’re free and don’t already have plans. I’m stuck here all weekend and know I’m going to be bored out of my mind. Would you want to come over and hang out on Saturday? We don’t have to decide what to do right now. Maybe we’ll figure something out together. No pressure at all, though. If you’re busy, I completely understand!
She hit send before she could second-guess herself again.
At the dorm, Jooheon sat with Changkyun, watching TV and scrolling through his phone. When Azalea’s message popped up, he couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at his lips as he read it.
Changkyun, ever observant, caught the subtle shift in Jooheon’s expression. “Hey, Honey, who’s that? You look suspiciously happy over there,” he teased, leaning closer to glimpse the screen.
Jooheon quickly tilted his phone out of view and smirked. “It’s Azzy. She’s just checking in,” he replied casually, though his tone betrayed a slight softness.
“Azzy, huh?” Changkyun raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. “You’ve been texting her a lot lately. Anything you want to share with the class?”
Jooheon gave him a pointed look. “We’re friends, that’s all. She was asking for advice about the event earlier. Nothing more to it.”
Changkyun chuckled, clearly unconvinced. “Uh-huh. So why did you get that goofy look every time she texts you? You sure there’s nothing more to it?”
Jooheon rolled his eyes, trying to play it cool, though his heart skipped a beat at the question. “It’s not like that,” he said, maybe more to himself than to Changkyun. “We’ve only ever talked as friends. That’s it. You’re reading too much into it.”
“Sure,” Changkyun said, smirking knowingly before returning to the TV.
Ignoring the maknae’s teasing, Jooheon quickly typed a reply to Azalea.
Joo: I’d love to hang out! Let me know what time works for you, and I’ll be there.
Hitting send, Jooheon leaned back against the couch, but his thoughts refused to settle. Changkyun’s words lingered, replaying in his mind. Do I feel something more for her?
His mind wandered back to the day they played mini-golf, his twinge of jealousy, and how her smile had stayed with him long after they parted ways. The idea made his chest tighten and his pulse quicken.
Was it possible he was feeling something beyond friendship? And if he was, what did that mean for them?
Jooheon shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts. He didn’t want to overthink things. For now, he was just looking forward to spending Saturday with Azalea, and that was enough.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a like, reblog, notes, and/or a message in my inbox! I would love to hear your feedback! ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆
Azalea froze when she heard the knocks on the door, even though she had been expecting them. Her nerves were on edge; she hadn’t ever invited anyone into her small studio apartment before, let alone for such a heavy conversation. She glanced at herself in the mirror, attempting to smooth her disheveled hair. There was nothing she could do about her red and puffy eyes, a result of crying intermittently throughout the day.
Taking a deep breath, she opened the door. Her gaze avoided Jooheon’s as she stepped aside to let him in, hoping he wouldn’t immediately notice the telltale signs of her emotional day. As soon as she shut the door behind him, she started walking toward the main room, gesturing for him to follow. However, as she passed him, Jooheon gently grabbed her wrist, pulling her into a tight hug.
Caught off guard, Azalea’s defenses crumbled. The tears she thought she’d managed to suppress began flowing again. She stood there with her arms to her side, not knowing what she should do with her hands. Jooheon’s voice was soft but full of regret.
“I’m so sorry, Azzy. I know part of your tears are because of me. I hate seeing you like this.”
He held her close for several minutes, his shirt becoming damp from her tears. When he finally let her go, she kept her head down, avoiding his gaze as she turned and led him toward the bed. She sat down, gesturing for him to sit beside her.
As Jooheon took in the surroundings, his brow furrowed slightly. The studio was as small as Azalea had described, with no real kitchen, just a microwave and a small counter. His heart ached at the sight of how modestly she lived.
When their eyes finally met, Jooheon reached over to gently wipe the remaining tears from her face. His touch was tender, his expression serious.
“Let me start,” he said, his voice low but steady. “Because I know this is mostly on me. I mistreated you, Azzy, and you didn’t even know why. That’s on me. Last night, when you were getting close to Wonho, I—”
Azalea’s eyes widened in surprise, but he raised a hand, signaling her to let him finish.
“Before you say anything, I know it was your first time meeting him, and I know how friendly and welcoming he is. I shouldn’t have felt the way I did. But there was this... pain seeing you with him, and it messed with my head. It made me act out of character, and I took it out on you. That was unfair to you and him. Wonho’s one of my best friends, and I was being ridiculous.”
He paused, taking a deep breath before continuing.
“You mean a lot to me, Azzy. I was so excited to see you yesterday, but then it felt like I was losing you to him. Like you forgot about me and were ready to replace me. Instead of talking to you and being mature about it, I shut myself off. I let that stupid jealousy fester, and it spilled over into today. When I saw the hurt in your eyes this morning, I realized how much of an idiot I’ve been. I’m sorry. Truly.”
Azalea stared at him, her chest tightening as his words sank in. She didn’t want to cry again, but the tears came anyway. This time, they weren’t just from the pain of the past day but also from the weight of a decision she needed to make.
Should she tell him? Should she let him in on the struggles she had kept hidden from everyone except Charli? How much was she even ready to share?
Jooheon’s brows joined together in concern as he noticed her tears. “Azzy, are you okay? Did I say something wrong?”
She shook her head quickly, wiping at her face. “No, Joo. Thank you for telling me. It’s just... It’s a lot. I was excited to meet Wonho, but I wanted to spend time with you last night. When you cut me off like that, it really hurt. But there’s more to it. I’m battling with myself, trying to figure out if I’m ready to even open up about it.”
Jooheon reached out, placing a comforting hand over hers. “Take your time, Azzy. Whatever it is, I’m here. Whenever you’re ready.”
Azalea took a shaky breath, mustering the courage to speak. Her hands trembled slightly, and she clasped them together to steady herself.
“I was really hurt when you kept calling me by my name this morning,” she began, her voice quiet but steady. “It might seem trivial or silly, but it hurt. It made me feel like I did something wrong and couldn’t figure it out. It felt like our friendship didn’t mean anything or wasn’t the same as before. When you wouldn’t tell me why you were calling me by my name, it felt like I was being shut out. That was my breaking point, Jooheon. That’s why I left.”
Her voice wavered, and she swallowed hard, fighting the tears threatening to spill. “I knew my emotions would bleed into the room and make everyone uncomfortable. I didn’t want that, not for you, not for anyone. So I left.”
She paused, trying to collect herself, but the next part of her confession was more challenging. Her chest tightened, and a tear slid down her cheek despite her best efforts. She sniffled and turned her face away, wiping at her eyes.
“But...” Azalea hesitated, her voice breaking. “The main reason I was able to get so close and comfortable with Wonho last night is that he gave me a sense of peace and comfort I’ve missed for a long time.” She looked back at Jooheon, her expression earnest. “And before you get any ideas, it’s not a romantic longing. It’s... something else entirely.”
She paused again, her hands trembling as she wiped her tears. “I had an older brother, Joo. And I miss him every single day. Wonho reminded me so much of him. The way he smiled, the way he talked. I didn’t expect that feeling. It was almost like he was with me, just for a little while.”
Azalea broke down again, tears flowing freely now. Jooheon instinctively reached out to comfort her, but she held up a hand, needing to finish.
“Only C.J. knows everything,” she admitted, her voice thick with emotion. “I’m not ready to talk about him fully. I slipped up once during dinner with Penny and Kiki and mentioned my brother, but that’s all I said, ‘my brother.’ I never mentioned him again. I can’t because the pain is still so fresh, even after all these years. But with Wonho, it felt like a small piece of me was healing last night.”
She looked up at Jooheon, her eyes filled with vulnerability. “That’s why I told you I was talking to C.J. this morning. She helped me sort through my feelings about my brother and you. When you were cold to me, it made everything worse. And then, when I bumped into you after I walked back in and we talked, it brought back all the confusion and pain. I didn’t know how to handle it, so I left.”
Azalea’s shoulders slumped as she finished speaking, the weight of her emotions leaving her exhausted. She finally looked at Jooheon, searching his face for a response, her heart pounding.
Jooheon froze momentarily, his mind racing as he tried to process everything Azalea had just shared. A wave of guilt washed over him, heavier than before, as he realized the depth of her pain and how his actions had heightened it. His chest tightened, and he felt at a loss for words. Yet, the sight of her trembling with fresh tears stirred something in him.
Without thinking, he leaned forward, gently wrapping his arms around her. He pulled her close, cradling her as if shielding her from the world’s weight. She melted into his embrace, her sobs muffled against his chest. Jooheon’s hand moved steadily along her back, his fingers threading lightly through her hair in a comforting rhythm. He could feel her tears soaking his shirt, but he didn’t care. All that mattered was being there for her in this moment.
“Azzy,” he murmured, his voice low and filled with regret, “I can’t even begin to tell you how sorry I am. I never wanted to hurt you, not like this. I don’t know what I was thinking, or maybe I wasn’t thinking at all. I let my emotions get the better of me, and I didn’t stop to think about how it would affect you. That was selfish, and I hate that I made things worse for you.”
He paused, his throat tightening as he struggled to find the right words. “You don’t deserve any of this, none of it. I should have come to you sooner and talked to you instead of shutting down and pushing you away. That’s on me, and I’ll regret it for a long time.”
He leaned his cheek against the top of her head, his voice softening even further. “Thank you for trusting me enough to share what you did. I know that wasn’t easy for you. And I know you’re carrying so much more than what you just said, and that’s okay. You don’t have to say anything more until you’re ready. Just know that I’m here and want to be here for you in whatever way you need.”
Pulling back slightly, he cupped her face gently in his hands, his thumbs brushing away the tears still falling. His gaze was steady, earnest. “I value you, Azzy. I value our friendship, our bond. It’s one of the most important things in my life, and I hate that I put that at risk because I couldn’t handle my emotions. I hope you can forgive me someday. But if you need time or even space, I’ll respect that. I just want you to know how much you mean to me and that I’m willing to do whatever it takes to make things right.”
Jooheon stayed still, his hands lingering softly on her cheeks, his eyes searching hers for any sign of what she was feeling. All he could do now was wait and hope she’d give him the chance to prove himself.
Jooheon’s phone vibrated softly in his pocket, but he didn’t reach for it immediately. His focus was on Azalea, seated across from him, her hands nervously fidgeting with the hem of her sweater. Her voice was calm but carried an underlying weight as she spoke.
“Thank you, Joo. I really mean it,” she said, her eyes briefly meeting his before darting away. “I know we haven’t known each other that long, but I already feel this... connection with you. I can trust you in ways I can’t with most people. That’s why I felt comfortable telling you a little about my brother. I haven’t even mentioned him to Penny, not because I don’t trust her, but because... It’s just hard. Thinking about him still hurts so much, and sometimes it feels easier to just... not talk about it.”
Jooheon nodded, his chest tightening at her vulnerability. “You don’t have to explain, Azzy. I get it. Some things take time, and I’m honored you trusted me enough to share even a little.”
She smiled faintly, a flicker of warmth breaking through her otherwise somber expression. “Thanks. I’m not sure I would’ve handled things differently if I were in your shoes. I can’t blame you for reacting how you did.”
He smiled in return before asking, “Hey, is it okay if I use your restroom?”
Azalea chuckled softly, gesturing toward the small hallway. “Of course. It’s not like you could get lost in here.”
Jooheon laughed along with her as he stood, making his way to the restroom. Once inside, he pulled out his phone, curious about the notification he’d ignored earlier. It was a message from Penelope.
Penny: I was scrolling Instagram when I saw a post from Charli. Did you know today is Azzy’s birthday? She never told me or anyone else, apparently. Did she mention it to you? Everyone here said she didn’t say a word last night.
Jooheon froze, staring at the message in disbelief. Her birthday? He quickly scrolled through his mental timeline of their conversations. She hadn’t mentioned it at all, not even in passing. Why would she keep that to herself, especially today of all days?
Not wanting to make her uncomfortable, he decided to keep the revelation to himself. He typed a quick response:
Honey: No, she didn’t say anything to me either. I had no idea. Thanks for letting me know.
Almost immediately, Penelope replied:
Penny: She doesn’t like cake, but we’re assembling a flower arrangement for her. I’ll add your name to the card 😊.
Honey: That’s perfect. Thank you for doing that.
As he put his phone away, Jooheon’s mind raced. Why wouldn’t she tell anyone? Was it because of everything else she’s been dealing with? He resolved not to push the topic but decided to do something special for her, even if it was subtle.
Returning to the main room, he found Azalea sitting quietly, scrolling through her phone absentmindedly. Her expression was calm but distant.
“Hey,” he said, breaking the silence. “I was thinking you’ve probably had a lot on your mind today, and I’d bet you haven’t eaten much.”
She looked up, tilting her head. “You caught me. I haven’t really had an appetite.”
“Well, that won’t do. Let me order us some dinner. My treat,” he offered, flashing her a warm smile.
Azalea hesitated before nodding. “Okay, sure. Thanks, Joo. That sounds nice.”
As he pulled up a delivery app on his phone, Jooheon carefully selected dishes he thought she might like, ensuring he picked comforting and familiar options. He wasn’t going to mention her birthday outright, but he silently vowed to make sure the rest of her evening felt a little brighter.
Azalea’s voice trembled slightly as she looked at Jooheon. “Joo, are we okay now? I need to know. I’m so sorry if I upset you last night. I know you said it was on you, but if I did something wrong, please tell me. I don’t want to make the same mistake again. I don’t want to lose you…” Tears welled up in her eyes as she spoke. Her vulnerability lay bare.
Jooheon noticed immediately and moved closer, sitting beside her on the bed. Taking her hands gently in his, he leaned in, his expression earnest. “Azzy, look at me. Please don’t cry,” he said softly. “This wasn’t your fault. Not at all. You were just being yourself, and that’s what I love about you. This was about me and my insecurities. I told you how I felt jealous because I thought someone else was taking the attention I wanted from you. It was stupid and selfish, and I should never have let it affect me the way it did.”
He paused, making sure she was hearing every word. “You and Wonho have every right to be close, just like you are with the others. He’s one of my best friends, and he’s amazing. I let my emotions cloud my judgment, and I’ll work on that. I promise it won’t happen again. But Azzy, I need you to know we’re good. I’ll understand if you need time to think about our friendship or where we are. Take all the time you need.”
Her eyes stayed locked on his, the tears finally spilling over. “Joo, I don’t need time,” she said, her voice breaking. “I don’t want to lose this friendship, and I don’t want it to end. That’s why I was hurting so much. I thought you hated me and didn’t want anything to do with me anymore.”
Jooheon gently wiped the tears from her cheeks. “Azzy, I would never do that. Not unless you told me to,” he said with a small smile, his sincerity shining.
Before either could say more, a knock interrupted the moment. Azalea stood and walked to the door, assuming it was the food Jooheon had ordered. Instead, she found herself staring at a stunning bouquet of azaleas, sunflowers, jasmine, baby’s breath, and roses. All are arranged beautifully in a vase. Her expression shifted to confusion as she glanced back at Jooheon.
“These must be for someone else,” she muttered, reading the card attached. But her breath caught as she saw her name. “To: Azalea, From: The Family,” it read.
Tears threatened to fall again as she returned to the room, placing the bouquet on her dresser. Carefully, she opened the small card tucked inside and read the message:
Happy Birthday, Azzy. We love you so much!
Love your family,
Penny, Kiki, Sanghee, Minni, Honey, I.M, Papa Bear, Wonnie, and Wonho.”
Her voice wavered as she turned back to Jooheon. “Wait… how did you all find out it was my birthday? I never told anyone.”
Jooheon gave her a sheepish smile. “Penny texted me earlier. She said she saw a post from Charli on Instagram.”
Azalea’s cheeks flushed. She had forgotten entirely about Charli’s annual posts. “Oh, right. I didn’t think anyone would notice,” she said softly.
Azalea took a quick picture of the flowers and sent a heartfelt thank-you message to her friends in their group chat. She also made a vague post on her private social media, intentionally leaving out the card to respect everyone’s privacy.
Not long after, there was another knock at the door. This time, it was the dinner Jooheon had ordered. As they unpacked the food, he asked, “Do you want to watch something while we eat? Maybe a Marvel movie?”
Her face lit up with a smile. “Doctor Strange?”
“Perfect,” Jooheon agreed, smiling back.
They settled on the bed, sharing laughs and diving into conversation as the movie played in the background. For the first time in 24 hours, everything felt right again.
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Jooheon stepped back inside, his thoughts heavy as the early morning light filtered through the windows. The household was gradually coming to life. Penelope and Kihyun were in the kitchen, the smell of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air as the others stirred lazily in the living room. Hyungwon, ever the deep sleeper, remained undisturbed by the activity around him.
Jooheon’s eyes swept the room as if searching for something or someone. His brow furrowed when he noticed the guest room door was ajar, but Azalea was nowhere in sight. A flicker of concern passed over his face as he paused in thought. Where had she gone? She hadn’t mentioned any plans to leave.
Meanwhile, Charli had been mulling over her earlier conversation with Azalea. Though she believed the discussion had gone well, she knew her friend’s tendencies too well. She picked up her phone and sent a quick message to Penelope, her worry now too great to keep to herself.
Charli: Hey, Penelope, it’s Charli. Please keep an eye on Azalea today. She’s in a fragile emotional state and might act impulsively. We had a good conversation, but sometimes, she can fall back into her headspace after a talk like this. I’m afraid she might make a rash decision.
Penelope’s chest tightened as she read the message. Her eyes darted to Kihyun, who noticed her worried look. She handed him her phone, letting him read Charli’s message. He nodded, understanding the weight of the situation.
Penelope quickly typed out a reply.
Penelope: I’ll do my best to check on her, but she sent me a message earlier saying she had already left. She didn’t say much. She just said she had some things to care for.
After hitting send, her fingers hovered over the screen, her mind racing. What should she do now? Should she reach out to Azalea or let Charli handle it since she seemed to understand the situation more clearly?
As Penelope stood in thought, she noticed Jooheon walking in, his expression troubled. She hadn’t even realized he had been outside.
“How long were you out there?” she asked, stepping toward him.
“I’m not sure,” he replied, his voice tinged with unease. “I was talking to Azalea out there. She said she’d been talking to her friend and seemed upset. I asked if she was okay, but she didn’t say much. We stayed outside because everyone else was asleep. I came back in after I had some space to think. Where is she now?”
Penelope hesitated, the concern in his tone making her even more uneasy. “She sent me a message earlier saying she had left,” she explained. “She said she had things to do. Then Charli messaged me, saying I should keep an eye on her because she’s been struggling emotionally. I didn’t know until now. She must not have told Charli she was leaving.”
Jooheon’s stomach churned at her words. Guilt gnawed at him. He replayed the conversation from earlier in his mind. He’d sensed her sadness and seen the tears she tried so hard to hide, yet he hadn’t pressed her to stay or opened up more himself. Worse still, a feeling he didn’t want to admit simmered inside him. Seeing her so comfortable and at ease with Wonho the night before had stirred an uncomfortable jealousy. He didn’t fully understand it, but it had been enough to make him pull back, to create distance when she might have needed him most.
Penelope studied his face, noticing the guilt that seemed to weigh on him. “Jooheon, did something happen between you two? You seem really upset.”
He shook his head, pushing the thought aside. This wasn’t about him. Right now, he just needed to make sure Azalea was okay.
“No, unfortunately, we didn’t talk about much,” Jooheon said finally. “She mentioned her friend helped her feel better, and she said she was going to pack and change. But she didn’t say she was leaving.”
Penelope studied his face, noticing the worry that lingered there. “She’ll be okay,” she said reassuringly. “We’ll check on her. She probably just needed some time to herself.”
Jooheon nodded, but his chest felt heavy. He silently vowed that if she needed him, he would be there, no matter what. All he could do now was wait and hope she would let him in when she was ready.
C.J.: AZALEA ROSE HART! You left Penelope’s house with just a message while she was sleeping? You didn’t tell anyone else and snuck out? What is going on?!
Azalea stared at the message, her stomach twisting. She wasn’t sure how to respond or if she even wanted to. She could try ignoring Charli, but Azalea knew that wouldn’t work. Charli wouldn’t give up; she’d blow up her phone until she got an answer.
Azzy Baby: It’s late for you, C.J. But if you really want to talk, video call me. It’ll be easier to explain that way.
Within moments, her phone buzzed with an incoming video call. Charli didn’t waste time with pleasantries.
“Azzy, what is going on? Talk to me,” Charli urged, her tone a mix of concern and frustration.
Azalea sighed and positioned her phone so Charli could see her face, though she avoided eye contact with the screen. “I just... I couldn’t stay. After we talked earlier, I felt a little better. But then I ran into Jooheon when I came back inside, and everything I was trying to push down was flooding back.”
“What do you mean? What happened with him?” Charli’s brows knitted together.
Azalea hesitated before continuing. “It’s stupid, really. He called me by my first name instead of Azzy. It’s such a small thing, but it felt like a punch to the gut. He wouldn’t explain why he stopped calling me by my nickname, and it hurt. I asked him about it, and he just avoided answering me.” She paused, taking a shaky breath. “That was my breaking point, C.J. I couldn’t handle it anymore. I told him I was fine, but I wasn’t. I went to the guest room to change and pack, and while doing that, I realized I couldn’t face him again or anyone today.”
Charli listened intently, her expression softening as Azalea poured out her feelings.
“I figured it was better for everyone if I just left,” Azalea continued. “Jooheon was the only one awake, so sneaking out was easy. I thought if I stayed, it would make things awkward. Our emotions would’ve been obvious, which could have ruined the day.”
“Azzy...” Charli began, her voice gentle but firm. “Running away doesn’t solve anything. You need to face this, even if it’s uncomfortable. Did you tell him how you felt?”
“No,” Azalea admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “I couldn’t. He already seemed upset, and I didn’t want to make things worse. It felt easier to just... disappear for a while.”
Charli shook her head. “You know that’s not the way to handle it. You’re only bottling things up more. He cares about you. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have tried to talk to you at all. You’ve got to let him in, Azzy. You owe it to yourself to stop carrying this alone.”
Azalea nodded slowly, tears pooling in her eyes. “I know you’re right. I just... I didn’t know what else to do.”
“Then promise me you’ll take some time to think and figure out how to talk to him. And don’t shut Penelope out, either. She’s worried about you,” Charli said firmly.
“I’ll try,” Azalea whispered.
“That’s all I’m asking,” Charli replied with a small smile. “I’m here if you need me, okay? Anytime.”
“Thanks, C.J. I mean it.” Azalea ended the call, her heart feeling a little lighter but still weighed down by the thought of the conversations yet to come.
Azalea lay in bed, her body sinking into the mattress as exhaustion weighed heavily on her. After the emotionally draining call with Charli, she decided she needed a moment of stillness. The clock on her nightstand read only noon, though the day felt endless.
Her phone rested beside her, untouched. She had deliberately set it aside, deciding she didn’t want the distraction. The soft hum of Marvel movies played in the background, a comforting noise as she tried to let her mind wander to something other than the tangle of her emotions.
The peace was short-lived. A soft buzz broke through the movie’s dialogue, pulling Azalea’s attention back to the phone. Reluctantly, she reached over to check, assuming it was another message from Charli.
What she saw made her chest tighten.
It was a message from Jooheon.
Joo: I am sorry if I upset you or if I am the reason you left. I miss you. Can we please talk? If you do not want to talk today, that’s okay, whenever you are ready. I just miss you, Azzy. I am sorry.
Her breath caught in her throat as she read his words. The familiar nickname and the sincerity in his apology hit her harder than she expected. Tears welled up in her eyes, and before she could stop them, they spilled over, tracing warm paths down her cheeks.
Azalea put her phone down gently as though the weight of the message itself was too much to bear. She curled up on her side, the sound of her quiet sobs blending into the faint music from the movie in the background.
She hadn’t been ready for this.
Azalea rolled over and squinted at the clock. The glowing red numbers read 3:00 p.m., and her phone lay on the pillow next to her. She realized she had cried herself to sleep. A pang of guilt hit her as she remembered Jooheon’s message. She hadn’t responded, but the whirlwind of emotions earlier had left her unsure of what to say.
Taking a deep breath, she picked up her phone and re-read his message. The sincerity in his words stirred something inside her. She knew they needed to talk, and the sooner, the better. She typed out a reply, her fingers hesitating briefly before hitting send.
Azzy: I’m sorry I didn’t respond sooner, Joo. I fell asleep. I’d love to talk to you. Would it be okay if we did it in person? We need to talk, but it would be better face-to-face. I’d rather not drag this out. Let me know when you’re available.
The response came almost instantly, as though Jooheon had been waiting for her reply.
Joo: I agree. I feel like this is mostly my fault, and I’d love to talk face-to-face and clear the air with you as soon as possible. I actually left the guys at Penny’s after I found out you were gone because I felt bad. Do you think we can meet today? I can come to get you. I know Penny usually does because of your sense of direction.
Azalea smiled faintly at his mention of her poor navigation skills. For a moment, it lightened the heaviness in her chest. She typed back quickly.
Azzy: I’m still pretty tired and don’t feel like going out. Would you want to just come over to my place? It’s small, but we have enough room to sit and talk.
Jooheon’s response was immediate, and his excitement was evident even through text.
Joo: Sure! Just send me the address, and I’ll head that way.
Azalea hesitated for only a second before sending him her address. Her heart raced as she pressed send, a mixture of nervousness and anticipation coursing through her. She glanced around her small apartment, wondering if it was presentable enough, but quickly decided it didn’t matter. What mattered was the conversation ahead.
She set her phone back on the nightstand and took a deep breath. For the first time that day, she felt a glimmer of hope that things could be resolved.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a like, reblog, notes, and/or a message in my inbox! I would love to hear your feedback! ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆
The next morning, Azalea stirred awake earlier than everyone else, the sunlight filtering through the curtains and casting soft golden rays into the room. The previous night’s events played in her mind, a blend of laughter, lingering unease, and moments of quiet reflection. She decided she needed some fresh air and a chance to clear her head, especially before her video call with Charli.
Azalea glanced around the room and realized the house was still blanketed in the quietness of sleep. Everyone else was sprawled out in various states of unconsciousness. The guys had taken over the living room, their limbs sticking out from under blankets in a chaotic yet endearing mess. She suppressed a laugh, the sight reminding her vividly of the times her brother and his friends would camp out in their living room during childhood sleepovers. The nostalgic image tugged at her heart, leaving her with a bittersweet sentiment.
Careful not to disturb anyone, she quietly grabbed her phone and slid her earbuds into her pocket. She switched her phone to silent mode, and the slight tap of the screen changing the settings, which sounded louder than she expected in the hushed atmosphere. She tiptoed to the back door, pausing momentarily to survey the scene one last time.
The sliding door loomed as her next challenge. She wrapped her fingers around the handle, moving it slowly to avoid squeaking or loud thuds. With painstaking precision, she managed to slide it open just enough to squeeze through. The cool morning air greeted her, carrying with it the scent of dew and the faint chirping of birds.
Once outside, she took a deep breath, savoring the freshness of the morning. The sunshine kissed her skin, and she felt the previous day’s weight start to ease. She let the warmth wrap around her like a comforting hug, leaning on the porch railing as she let her mind wander.
Azalea appreciated the quiet moments alone, her thoughts darting between her unresolved feelings with Jooheon, the companionship of the night before, and the unexpected waves of healing brought on by Wonho’s familiar energy. The open air felt like an essence, giving her the space to untangle her emotions and prepare for the day ahead.
When the time came to call Charli, Azalea pulled out her phone and slipped in her earbuds. She took one last glance toward the house, reassured by the stillness that no one else had stirred. This was her moment, a chance to confide in her best friend without fear of interruption or judgment. With a slight smile tugging her lips, she tapped Charli’s name and waited for the video call to connect.
As Azalea settled into the porch chair, the familiar sound of the video call connecting brought relief. Charli’s face appeared on the screen, her warm smile immediately grounding Azalea in the safety of their friendship.
“Good morning, Azzy Baby! This is a change of scenery,” Charli said, her voice as bright and inviting as ever.
Azalea managed a small smile, but it quickly wavered. “Hey, C.J., I needed some fresh air... and to talk to you.”
The concern in Charli’s expression deepened as she tilted her head. “What’s going on? You okay?”
And just like that, the dam broke. Azalea launched into everything that had transpired the night before. She started with meeting Wonho, his energy and characteristics, and how they struck a deeply familiar chord; it felt like her brother was somehow there with her. Her voice trembled as she described the unexpected sense of healing it brought, the way it felt like a tiny piece of her brother had come back to fill the void he had left behind.
Charli listened intently, her gaze unwavering, and occasional nods encouraging Azalea to keep going. When Azalea moved on to talking about Jooheon, her confusion and unease poured out. “Everything seemed fine, C.J. We were joking and having fun, but then... something changed. It was like a switch flipped, and I don’t know why. I tried asking him about it, but he said he wasn’t ready to talk. So I let it go, but... it still feels unresolved.”
Charli’s brow furrowed as she processed Azalea’s words. “Maybe he just needs some time to sort out his feelings. That doesn’t mean it’s your fault, though.”
Azalea nodded, wiping at the tears now streaming freely down her cheeks. “I know... but it’s hard. I just don’t want him to think I’m ignoring him or that I don’t care.” Her voice cracked, and she paused, trying to steady herself. “It’s just so much, C.J. Wonho, Jooheon, Anthony... all these feelings in one night. I didn’t even realize how much I held in until now.”
Charli’s heart broke seeing her best friend so vulnerable. “Oh, Azzy... you’ve been through so much, and it’s okay to feel everything you’re feeling. You don’t have to hold it all in. That’s why I’m here, remember?”
Azalea let out a shaky laugh, her tears still falling, but her heart feeling lighter. “You always know how to make me feel safe, C.J. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
“That’s what best friends are for,” Charli replied, her smile soft and reassuring. “Take your time to process all this. You don’t have to figure it all out at once. And about Jooheon, when he’s ready to talk, he will. Just keep being patient and kind like you always are.”
Azalea nodded again, her breathing steadier now. She felt comforted just letting it all out, knowing Charli was there to catch her when she felt like she might fall. The weight of the previous night still lingered, but it felt more manageable now as if she could take it on piece by piece.
Azalea sniffled and wiped her tears, a small smile tugging at her lips. “You know what’s funny, C.J.? The living room right now looks exactly like our house used to when Anthony would have his friends over.”
Charli raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Oh really? What do you mean?”
Azalea couldn’t help but chuckle softly. “It’s just... It’s a total mess in there. All the guys are sprawled out everywhere, on the couch, floor, in the weirdest positions. It’s chaos, but it’s kind of comforting, you know? It’s like a snapshot from back then.”
Charli smiled knowingly. “Classic guy sleepover vibes. You have to show me.”
Azalea hesitated momentarily, not wanting to disturb anyone, but the thought of sharing the hilarity with Charli was too tempting. “Alright, but I have to be quick. I don’t want to wake them up.”
She carefully adjusted her phone and turned the camera around. She gave Charli a brief but clear view of the living room with a slow, steady hand. Hyungwon was curled up in an armchair, clutching a pillow like it was a lifeline. Shownu was stretched out on the couch, his arm dangling off the side. I.M and Jooheon were on the floor, one with a blanket over his head and the other using a hoodie as a makeshift pillow. Wonho was curled up on the floor in front of the couch, a pillow between his legs and a blanket missing.
Azalea giggled as she zoomed out and quickly turned the camera back to herself. “See what I mean? It was a total disaster zone. But it’s kind of sweet.”
Charli laughed, her face lighting up at the sight. “That’s amazing. It really does look like one of those nights when Anthony and his friends would take over the house. Nostalgia central!”
Azalea nodded, her smile growing wider. “Exactly. It’s chaotic, but it makes me feel... safe in a weird way. Like I’m home.”
Charli’s voice softened. “That’s beautiful, Azzy. Maybe that’s his way of reminding you he’s always with you, even in the little things.”
Azalea’s chest tightened with emotion, but it wasn’t overwhelming this time. It was warm and comforting. She nodded slowly, grateful for Charli’s words. “Yeah... maybe it is.”
The two friends shared a quiet moment of understanding before Azalea leaned back, letting herself soak in the sunshine and the connection that made everything feel just a little bit easier to bear.
Azalea stayed outside a little longer as the call wound down, savoring the morning’s peace. The warmth of the sun and the support of her best friend wrapped around her, and for the first time, she allowed herself to just breathe.
Azalea’s heart felt a little lighter as she said her goodbyes to Charli, the weight of their conversation settling in more comfortably. She could breathe for the first time all night without feeling like everything was pressing down on her. Still, it didn’t erase the exhaustion she felt. Talking about everything she had kept inside had drained her, leaving her emotionally and physically spent. She glanced around, hoping the others were still asleep, and decided to take a moment for herself.
After some time sitting on the back porch, Azalea stood, feeling the slight chill in the air. The quiet of the morning had helped to calm her thoughts, but now she felt the need to retreat and recharge in solitude. She decided to head inside, thinking that everyone was still resting.
She moved as quietly as possible, carefully opening the sliding door to avoid making any noise. But her movements were suddenly interrupted as she stepped into the living room. She froze when she saw a figure standing by the couch, their presence catching her completely off guard.
It was Jooheon.
The sight of him startled her so much that she jumped slightly, a sharp breath catching in her throat. She hadn’t expected anyone to be awake, let alone him. She quickly tried to mask her surprise with a weak, hasty smile, her gaze darting away from his. She didn’t want him to see the tears she had just begun to wipe away.
But it was too late. Their eyes met, and in that instant, Jooheon’s face shifted into one of concern. He must’ve seen the evidence of her tears, even if she hadn’t said a word. He reached out instinctively, gently taking her hand and leading her back outside through the sliding door.
Azalea’s heart raced as he pulled her away, unsure of what to say. She had hoped to avoid anyone noticing her vulnerability, but here he was, clearly wanting to talk.
“What were you doing out here?” Jooheon asked once they were outside again, his voice laced with worry. “You scared me. How long have you been out here?”
Azalea inhaled sharply, her throat tight as she fought to keep her composure. “I’ve been out here for a while,” she replied quietly. “I woke up early and needed some fresh air... just wanted to think for a bit. Then I had my call with C.J., so I stayed out here just in case anyone needed the bathroom. I didn’t want to disturb anyone.”
The tension between them hung in the air like a heavy fog. Jooheon’s eyes never left her face, his concern deepening. “Azalea, why aren’t you looking at me?”
Her heart skipped a beat at his use of her name. It was so unusual, so direct. Why hadn’t he called her by her nickname? Her mind raced, the anxiety of the moment bubbling up again. “I wasn’t sure if you wanted to talk to me,” she answered softly, her voice tinged with uncertainty.
Jooheon’s gaze softened for just a moment before it sharpened. “You were crying, weren’t you? And you didn’t want me to see it,” he said, interrupting her before she could finish. “Why were you crying?”
Azalea felt a lump form in her throat, her emotions threatening to spill over. She had told Charli everything and convinced herself she was fine, but the weight suddenly hit her again. “Joo, I... I don’t want to talk about it right now,” she said, her voice trembling. “I talked to C.J. about it, and we worked through everything. I’m better, I promise. I just... didn’t want you to worry about me. I’m fine now.”
Jooheon didn’t seem convinced. His fingers gently cupped her chin, guiding her face back up so that their eyes met. The warmth of his touch was like a steadying force, but the sadness in his gaze only made her feel more vulnerable.
“Please don’t lie to me, Azalea,” he said quietly, his voice steady but full of concern. “Are you really okay?”
Azalea swallowed hard, feeling the tears she had fought to suppress begin to well up again. She nodded quickly, trying to appear stronger than she felt. “Yes, I am. Why do you keep calling me by my full name? Are you mad at me? You’ve barely talked to me since last night, and now you’re only checking on me because I’ve been crying. Did I do something wrong?” The words slipped out before she could stop them, and she regretted them as soon as they left her mouth.
Jooheon’s expression softened, his brow furrowing slightly as if the weight of her words had struck him harder than expected. He reached for her hands, holding them gently. “I asked you last night if you were okay, and you said you didn’t want to talk about it. I left it alone, but now... now you’re not even calling me by my nickname, and it feels like I’ve done something wrong. If I’m being honest, that’s one of the things I talked to C.J. about,” she admitted, her voice breaking slightly as the tears finally escaped.
Jooheon’s face turned serious, his eyes searching hers.
Azalea removed her hand from Jooheon’s grasp and wiped her tears away quickly, still feeling that knot in her chest. “I just... I don’t know what to say anymore, Joo. You’ve been so distant, and I feel like I’ve messed up somehow. I’m sorry. I just need to go get changed. I’ll be okay. I promise.”
With that, Azalea stepped back inside, her heart heavy with confusion and sadness. She headed straight for the guest room, locking the door behind her as she tried to steady her racing heart. Her hands trembled as she leaned against the door, tears falling freely now that she was alone.
Her emotions were unbearable, and her mind raced with thoughts of Jooheon’s expression and voice and how he had looked at her, concerned but distant. She needed to get everything packed and leave. Her mind was a whirlwind, but she could only focus on escaping the overwhelming emotions for a little while
She couldn’t shake the feeling that she had messed everything up. His use of her name instead of her nickname had been like a dagger to her heart, a subtle reminder that something between them wasn’t right. She pressed her hands to her face, muffling the sobs that shook her body.
After a few moments, Azalea gathered enough strength to start packing her things. She moved robotically, folding her clothes and tucking them neatly into her bag. At the same time, tears continued to stream down her cheeks. She couldn’t stay any longer, not like this. The tension with Jooheon was too much, and she didn’t want to drag anyone else into her emotional turmoil.
Grabbing her phone, she quickly texted Penelope:
Azzy: Hey, Penelope. I had to head home early to get some things done. Thank you so much for everything. I’ll see you soon, and I promise I’ll let you know when I’m back safe. Don’t worry, I won’t get lost this time. 💕
Azalea hesitated momentarily before hitting send, glancing around the room one last time. She didn’t want to leave without saying goodbye to the others, but the thought of facing Jooheon again made her stomach churn. This was the best way to avoid more pain for both of them, she thought.
She quietly ordered a rideshare, slipped her packed bag over her shoulder, and walked out the door as silently as she had come in earlier that morning. The house was quiet except for the occasional soft snores from the living room. Her heart ached as she passed by, resisting the urge to glance at Jooheon one last time. Slipping out the front door so quietly, it went unnoticed.
The rideshare arrived quickly, and Azalea climbed in, sinking into the seat with a heavy sigh. She stared out the window as the car pulled away, watching the scenery blur past. Her tears had slowed, replaced by a dull ache in her chest.
“Maybe this is for the best,” she whispered, clutching her phone tightly. She didn’t know what would happen next, but for now, she needed space. Space to breathe, process, and figure out where she stood with Jooheon and herself.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a like, reblog, notes, and/or a message in my inbox! I would love to hear your feedback! ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆
Saturday morning arrived, and Azalea woke up feeling excited and nervous. She stretched lazily in bed before grabbing her phone to send a few messages. First, she messaged Charli:
Azzy Baby: Hey, C.J., I just wanted to let you know my plans for the day. I’m packing an overnight bag for Penny’s place in case I stay over. I’ll update you tomorrow!
Next, she messaged Penelope:
Azzy: Good morning! I’m up and getting ready now. Just let me know when you’re on the way!
Finally, smiling, she texted Jooheon, someone she’d grown surprisingly close to over the past week. Their conversations had been effortless, ranging from silly jokes to meaningful reflections. She typed out her message:
Azzy: Good morning, Joo! I can’t wait to see you later!
She placed her phone on the nightstand and started her morning routine. She began with a shower, letting the warm water wake her up fully, followed by a luxurious soak in the bath. It had become her go-to way of preparing for the day, a moment of calm before the whirlwind of activity.
As Azalea got ready, she couldn’t help but think about the group and how much she missed them, even though she was about to spend the entire day in their company. The bonds she was forming with them were unlike anything she’d experienced in a long time, and the thought filled her with a comforting sense of belonging.
Midway through packing her overnight bag, her phone buzzed. It was a message from Penelope:
Penny: Hey, Azzy! We’re about ten minutes away. See you soon!
Her heart beat with anticipation. It was time to gather her things and head downstairs to meet them. She double-checked her bag, grabbed her phone, and locked her door behind her. A grin spread across her face as she stepped outside and went downstairs. It was shaping up to be a day to remember.
The car ride to mini golf was lively, filled with laughter and playful banter. Penelope, Kihyun, Sanghee, Minhyuk, and Azalea shared stories and jokes, making the trip feel much shorter than it actually was. When they arrived, the rideshare dropped them off in front of the mini golf course, and they stood near the entrance, waiting for the others to come.
It didn’t take long before the rest of the group walked up, wearing subtle disguises—caps, sunglasses, and masks—to stay incognito. Despite their precautions, their excitement was noticeable, and the energy only heightened when everyone exchanged greetings and hugs.
Azalea felt her heart skip a beat as Jooheon’s eyes met hers. His gaze softened, and a smile lit up his face. She mirrored his excitement but kept her hug as casual as the others, trying to keep things as subtle as possible.
As the group chatted, a figure approached from behind Kihyun. A broad-shouldered man with a bright smile wrapped an arm around Kihyun’s neck affectionately. “Hey, guys,” he greeted warmly.
The reaction was instant and electric. The guys cheered, rushing to surround him in a massive group hug. Azalea, unsure of what was happening, turned to Penelope, whose expression was a mixture of joy and emotion. It was clear that this moment was deeply significant.
Seeing Azalea’s confusion, Penelope leaned closer to explain. “That’s Wonho,” she said softly. “He’s one of their closest friends and used to be in the group. There was a lot of drama, but for the sake of the group, he stepped away. It left a big hole, but they’ve stayed close. I invited him as a surprise. Now you get to meet everyone.”
Azalea watched the scene unfold, her heart swelling at the genuine love and camaraderie in front of her. She couldn’t help but smile as Wonho made his way around, greeting Penelope and Sanghee with big hugs.
As he approached Azalea, she couldn’t help but notice his imposing physique. His muscles were evident even under his casual clothes, and she briefly thought of her brother, who had loved working out just as much. The resemblance tugged at her heart, bringing back a bittersweet ache.
“Azzy, are you with us?” Penelope’s voice broke through her thoughts, pulling her back to the moment.
“Sorry, Penny. Were you talking to me?” Azalea asked, a little flustered.
“Yes,” Penelope said gently, her concern evident. “I wanted to introduce you. Are you okay?”
Azalea nodded quickly. “Yes, I’m fine. I just got lost in thought for a second.”
Penelope didn’t press further, though the look in her eyes suggested she wasn’t entirely convinced. She turned to Wonho. “Wonho, this is our friend Azalea. Azalea, this is Wonho.”
Azalea gave a polite bow, mirroring how she’d greeted the others. “It’s really nice to meet you. I hope you have a great time tonight.”
Wonho’s smile was evident beneath his mask, his eyes crinkling warmly. “Nice to meet you, too, Azalea. I’m sure it’ll be fun.”
There was something about his presence that immediately put her at ease. She couldn’t quite place it, but standing near him felt safe, familiar, even comforting. Maybe it was the connection to her brother she hadn’t felt in so long. As the night went on, she hoped she’d find some clarity, but for now, she was content to enjoy the moment.
As the group entered the lively mini-golf course, the air was filled with neon lights, playful music, and the sound of laughter from other players scattered around. Azalea’s mind, however, was elsewhere. She felt a knot of emotions twisting in her chest, and she couldn’t shake the familiarity that Wonho’s presence stirred within her. Pulling out her phone, she typed a quick message to Charli:
Azzy Baby: Something strange happened tonight. A new guy joined the group, and I can’t explain it, but he reminds me so much of AMP. It’s bittersweet, like a warm hug and a sharp ache all at once. I’ll tell you everything tomorrow. Love you, C.J.
She tucked her phone away with a deep breath, hoping to shake off the heaviness.
Penelope noticed Azalea’s distraction and gave her a reassuring pat on the shoulder before turning her attention back to the group. The guys were already at the counter, enthusiastically debating the best ball colors.
“Green is obviously the superior choice,” Minhyuk declared, holding up a lime-green ball.
“Not if you’re trying to win,” Changkyun quipped, rolling his eyes and reaching for a bright red ball.
The attendant explained the rules, but most of the group only half-listened, their energy buzzing with anticipation. As they headed to the first hole, Azalea tried to focus on the moment, letting the playful chatter around her draw her back into the present.
Minhyuk couldn’t resist showing off at the first hole. “Alright, prepare yourselves for the ‘Minhyuk Miracle,’” he said, dramatically winding up for his shot. He swung without looking, sending the ball ricocheting wildly off a rock and back toward his feet.
“Impressive,” Shownu deadpanned, earning a chorus of laughter.
Azalea stepped up next, taking a moment to steady herself. Her ball rolled smoothly across the green, stopping just a few inches from the hole.
“That’s how it’s done,” Jooheon said with a grin, clapping as Azalea beamed.
Wonho approached with a quiet determination, his swing precise but not perfect as the ball bounced off the hole’s edge. “Guess I’m rusty,” he said with a sheepish smile.
Penelope leaned toward Azalea, whispering, “At least he’s good-looking enough to make up for it.” They both laughed, her spirits lifting slightly.
As they moved on to the next hole, the group’s energy became even more infectious. Kihyun was the first to attempt the challenge at the iconic windmill hole. He crouched dramatically, pretending to calculate the perfect angle before swinging hard. The ball smacked into a spinning blade and shot backward.
“Perfect execution,” Hyungwon said with mock sincerity, earning another round of laughter.
Azalea’s turn came, and despite her best efforts, her ball ended up stuck inside the windmill. Wonho crouched beside the obstacle, peering at it like a detective. “It’s not stuck,” he declared solemnly. “It’s strategizing.” The group laughed, and Azalea couldn’t help but join in.
Between turns, Azalea found herself drawn into casual conversations with Wonho. His easy demeanor and warm, familiar energy slowly eased the ache she hadn’t realized she was carrying. She didn’t notice the subtle way Jooheon’s mood shifted. His usually bright expression dimmed as he watched Azalea’s attention shift.
By the time they reached Hole 9, affectionately nicknamed “The Loop-de-Loop Showdown,” the group was in full competition mode. Changkyun stepped up first, cracking his knuckles. “This is where champions are made,” he declared confidently. His ball shot up the loop but didn’t make it all the way around, rolling back down.
“Looks like you’ll have to settle for second place,” Sanghee teased as she took her turn. Her ball wobbled through the loop before dropping awkwardly off-course.
Wonho grinned as he prepared his shot. “Time to put these muscles to good use.” He lined up, swung smoothly, and sent the ball soaring through the loop. It rolled straight into the hole, earning cheers from the group.
“Show-off,” Penelope said, sticking out her tongue.
The final hole featured a carnival-style Ferris wheel with rotating buckets. Shownu’s shot missed entirely, prompting him to shrug with a laugh. “Guess I’m retiring from mini-golf,” he joked.
When it was Jooheon’s turn, he quickly glanced at Azalea before lining up his shot. His ball landed in a bucket but popped out before it could settle. “Close, but no cigar,” Azalea teased, her laughter lighting up the moment.
Finally, it was her turn. With the group cheering her on, Azalea focused on the timing and sent the ball toward the Ferris wheel. It landed perfectly in a bucket, triggering the bells and lights.
“Unstoppable,” Wonho said, giving her a playful nudge on the shoulder.
As the group celebrated and began to leave the course, Azalea caught Jooheon’s gaze. His smile was there, but it lacked its usual warmth, the kind that always seemed to brighten the room. The subtle change in his demeanor gnawed at her, sparking a flicker of worry in her mind. Had she done something to upset him? Her heart sank at the thought, but she couldn’t put her finger on what might have caused his mood to shift.
The realization unsettled her. Jooheon had recently become her anchor, the one who could effortlessly lift her spirits and make her feel seen. To feel a sudden distance between them was jarring, and she couldn’t help but replay the evening in her mind, searching for any misstep or overlooked moment that might explain his change in mood.
But Azalea wasn’t one to make a scene, especially when the night was full of laughter and friendship. So, she did what she always did when emotions threatened to bubble to the surface. She stuffed them down, burying the discomfort beneath a mask of smiles and easy laughter. It wasn’t the time or place to bring it up, not when everyone else seemed so happy.
As the group exited the course, the cool night air greeted them, refreshing against their flushed cheeks from the excitement of the game. Minhyuk was already recounting his most “legendary” shots of the evening, exaggerating every detail to make himself the game’s champion.
“I think we were all there, Minhyuk. No need for a replay,” Changkyun groaned.
“Let the man dream,” Sanghee teased, nudging him with her elbow.
Azalea laughed along with them, trying to focus on the joy of the moment rather than the unease twisting in her chest. Beside her, Penelope was chatting animatedly with Hyungwon about her bold (if unsuccessful) windmill shot while Wonho walked a few paces ahead, still glowing from his loop-de-loop victory.
As they approached the cars, Penelope turned to the group with a bright idea. “Hey, it’s still early! Why don’t we all head to my place? Sanghee and I just got that new party game, and I’m pretty sure Minhyuk will insist on proving he’s the champion at something tonight.”
“Bold of you to assume I won’t,” Minhyuk said, grinning.
The group exchanged glances, and one by one, they agreed. It felt like the perfect way to extend the evening, and nobody was ready for the night to end just yet. Azalea hesitated for a moment, glancing at Jooheon, who nodded.
“Sounds fun,” she said, her voice steadier than she felt.
As they caravanned to Penelope and Sanghee’s apartment, the mood in the cars was light. Music blasted, and jokes flew back and forth as everyone unwound further from the competitive energy of mini-golf.
Sanghee ushered everyone inside when they arrived, directing traffic like a seasoned host. “Snacks are in the kitchen, drinks in the fridge. Help yourselves. And someone grab the game box from the coffee table!”
Azalea drifted to the couch, where Jooheon was fiddling with his phone. She sat beside him, close enough to feel his presence but not so close that it felt invasive. “Are you okay?” she asked softly, keeping her voice low so the others wouldn’t hear.
He glanced at her, his expression softening just a fraction. “Yeah. Just… a lot on my mind.”
“Anything you want to talk about?”
“Not yet,” he replied, offering her a small smile that still didn’t quite reach his eyes.
Azalea nodded, not wanting to push. “Well, I’m here if you do.”
“I know,” he said, his voice quiet but sincere.
The moment was interrupted by Penelope’s loud declaration. “Alright, everyone! Who’s ready to lose to the reigning champion of fun?”
“You can’t call yourself the champion until you’ve actually played!” Minhyuk protested as he set up the game.
The energy in the room shifted as the game began, laughter and playful banter filling the space. Azalea let herself get swept up, grateful for the group’s distraction and warmth. Even though the unresolved tension with Jooheon lingered, she felt a small sense of peace surrounded by her friends.
Tonight had been a mix of emotions, healing, and joy tempered with an undercurrent of confusion. As she glanced at Jooheon one last time, catching him laughing at one of Changkyun’s sarcastic remarks, she decided to find the right moment to talk to him. For now, she would let herself enjoy the evening, holding on to the good parts and letting their warmth carry her through the uncertainty.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a like, reblog, notes, and/or a message in my inbox! I would love to hear your feedback! ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆
Azalea woke up and saw a response from Jooheon waiting for her:
Joo: Thank you for letting me know you’re home safe and making my day more special. Sweet dreams, Azzy.
Her heart fluttered as she read it, a faint rose blush starting to appear on her cheeks as she smiled. She quickly got ready for the day and prepared for her video call with Charli, eager to reminisce about the party.
During their chat, Azalea excitedly shared every detail, how amazing the decorations were, how fun the games had been, and most importantly, her interactions with Jooheon. Charli listened intently, happy to hear her best friend’s joy.
When Azalea told her about Jooheon asking for her number, Charli couldn’t help but laugh. “You know, Azzy, that sounds like more than just friendly interest to me.”
Azalea brushed it off with a laugh, not taking it seriously. She trusted Jooheon’s kindness and wasn’t reading too much into it. She didn’t know that Charli, like Penelope, had her own suspicions, but Charli decided not to bring them up further. She knew Azalea’s history and didn’t want to overwhelm her.
Their conversation shifted to lighter topics, how the cafe had slowed down again, Charli’s newfound free time to organize accounts at the office, and her plans to hit the beach more often and catch up on World of Warcraft. The two friends laughed and joked for an hour before wrapping up with their usual “love yous” and goodbyes.
After the call, Azalea found herself unsure of what to do next. She didn’t want to bother Penelope, knowing she’d probably want some downtime with Kihyun after yesterday’s party and spending the last few weekends with her. And as much as she was tempted to text Jooheon, she hesitated, not wanting to seem too eager.
Instead, she turned on her favorite comfort show and mindlessly scrolled through her phone. Hours passed until a notification snapped her out of her trance.
Message: Hey everyone,
The message read from a number she didn’t recognize. Curiously, she opened it and saw the full text:
Ki: I wanted to make a new chat to add Azalea and the girls. That way, when we plan big group outings that include them, we have them all in one place. I’m pretty sure everyone but Azalea has each other’s numbers, so why don’t we all just say our names when we respond so she isn’t freaking out about what’s going on. BTW, this is Kihyun.
Everything suddenly clicked, and she laughed. As the names popped up, she saved them into her phone with nicknames: Ki, Joo, Penny, Puppy, Sang, I.M, Papa Bear, and Wonnie. Once she had everyone’s name, she renamed the group chat “Family.”
Amused, she sent Jooheon a message:
Azzy: I guess we got a head start last night, Joo.
Jooheon’s phone buzzed, and a smile tugged at his lips, seeing her name. But as he read the message, he couldn’t help feeling a little self-conscious. She wasn’t wrong, but he appreciated the humor.
Joo: Yeah, I guess. But at least now I know I can text you outside of that group chat 😀
Azalea chuckled, feeling a warmth in her chest. The group chat might have made things official, but her private connection with Jooheon was already special.
Azalea and Jooheon immersed themselves in an unexpected conversation rhythm as the day passed. Texting back and forth, their initial hesitation melted away as they discussed everything from their favorite songs to their go-to movies. The quote battle became a highlight of their exchange, each challenging the other to identify lines from iconic films.
Joo: “You can’t handle the truth!”
Azzy: Pfft, easy. ‘A Few Good Men.’ My turn, Joo!
Azzy: “Why so serious?”
Joo: ‘The Dark Knight,’ of course! Okay, let me think of a tricky one...
Their lighthearted banter made the hours fly by. Azalea was surprised by how easily she could talk to him. It felt natural, effortless, and safe. When the time came for her to prepare for the upcoming workday, she sent him a quick message to let him know.
Azzy: Hey, if I take longer to respond, don’t worry. I need to get some stuff done for work tomorrow. Laundry, dinner, shower, the usual.
Jooheon replied almost instantly:
Joo: No problem, Azzy. What’s for dinner?
Azalea hesitated for a moment before responding:
Azzy: Honestly, just microwave ramen. Studio living doesn’t leave me much room to cook, so I opt for quick and easy options.
Reading her reply, Jooheon’s heart sank. The thought of her relying on quick meals tugged at him. He couldn’t help but imagine surprising her with a homemade dish, something warm and hearty, to make her day a little brighter.
But as much as he wanted to, he knew it wasn’t the right time. They had just met, and he didn’t know Azalea well enough to ask for her address without seeming odd. Asking Penelope would also feel suspicious, and he didn’t want to risk pushing boundaries too soon.
Still, he couldn’t shake the thought of Azalea. She was unlike anyone he’d met before; she was kind, genuine, and unguarded in a way that made him want to know her even more. The idea of asking her on a date crossed his mind, but he quickly dismissed it. He didn’t want to rush things and risk scaring her away.
Instead, he settled for texting her a playful reply:
Joo: One day, I’m going to make you the best meal you’ve ever had. You just wait, Azzy. But for now, I’ll let you get to it. Sweet dreams in advance, okay?
Azalea smiled at his message. She hadn’t felt this kind of connection with someone in a long time, and while it was still new, she wanted to explore it.
Azzy: Sweet dreams to you, too, Joo. Thanks for keeping me company today. Talk soon?
Joo: Anytime, Azzy. Talk soon. 😊
As Azalea prepared for bed for the night, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of comfort. She felt genuinely excited about the future for the first time in a while. Little did she know, Jooheon was lying in his own bed, replaying their conversations and smiling at the thought of her.
The “Family” group chat lit up with messages Wednesday evening as everyone discussed details for the upcoming Saturday mini-golf outing. Kihyun started the conversation:
Ki: Alright, let’s figure out the car situation first. Who’s riding with whom?
Penelope replied quickly:
Penny: I’ll be picking up Azzy with a rideshare. There’s room for one or two more if needed. If Ki’s still at the house with us, he can join our ride.
Sanghee jumped in:
Sang: If we book an XL, Minny and I can ride with you. We should double-check vehicle sizes and see if we can all fit.
Kihyun agreed, keeping the momentum going:
Ki: That’s a good idea. Let’s explore the options for XL ride shares. It should be easier to group as many of us as possible into one vehicle.
Hyungwon added his own solution:
Wonnie: If that works, then the rest of us can fit into my car. Problem solved.
After a brief pause, Kihyun followed up:
Ki: Great, that’s one thing sorted. Now, let’s aim to meet at the mini-golf place by 5 p.m.
Penelope addressed Azalea directly:
Penny: Azzy, I’ll pick you up around 4 p.m., so we have plenty of time to get there. Oh, and don’t forget to bring an overnight bag, just in case! You can leave it in the guest room.
Azalea reread Penelope’s last line, and just as she was about to ask for clarification, Penelope sent another message:
Penny: After mini-golf, everyone’s invited back to the apartment to hang out. If it gets late, anyone who wants to can stay the night. I just wanted you to be prepared, Azzy!
Azalea smiled at Penelope’s thoughtfulness and quickly typed her reply:
Azzy: Thanks for the heads-up, Penny. I’ll pack what I need and let C.J. know if anything happens.
The chat continued, with the group cracking jokes and debating who would dominate at mini-golf. Azalea felt a growing excitement as the plan began to come together. Her heart warmed at how effortlessly the group included her and made her feel at home. She couldn’t wait for Saturday, not just for mini-golf but to spend more time with everyone who had already started feeling like family.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a like, reblog, notes, and/or a message in my inbox! I would love to hear your feedback! ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆
Penelope and Azalea stepped into the apartment and were immediately greeted by Kihyun, Sanghee, and Minhyuk. The three of them were lounging in the living room, surrounded by festive birthday decorations that filled the space with a sense of celebration. Penelope and Azalea joined them, with Kihyun and Minhyuk making room on the couch for them to sit next to Sanghee.
“Thank you again for the invite. I’m really excited to be here tonight,” Azalea said warmly, her eyes scanning the decorations. It was clear how much thought and care had gone into making the space feel special for Jooheon’s birthday. The attention to detail touched her.
“Is there anything else that needs to be done? I can help if you need me to,” she offered, glancing at Kihyun.
He gave her a familiar teasing look that made her grin. “You know I’m always going to ask,” she added, playfully sticking her tongue out.
Penelope chimed in before Kihyun could respond. “Okay, you two, calm down. And no, Azzy, everything’s done. We’re just waiting for the food delivery, which should be here any minute. After that, the guys should get here by five.”
Azalea nodded and smiled before turning her attention to Minhyuk and Sanghee. “How have you two been? It’s been a while since I’ve seen you,” she said sincerely.
Sanghee returned her smile. “We’ve been good, just busy with work. I’m glad you’re here too.”
“Yeah, excited that our new friend is back for more fun,” Minhyuk said enthusiastically. “And that we get to play mini golf next week.”
They all laughed and settled into small talk, catching up and exchanging stories. The room’s vibes put Azalea at ease, even as her anticipation for the night grew.
A knock at the door broke their conversation. Kihyun stood to answer it as the party’s food delivery arrived. He brought the food to the kitchen, setting it up on small burners to keep it warm while they awaited everyone’s arrival.
Azalea couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and nerves as the clock inched closer to five. She silently pleaded with time to speed up so the others could arrive, especially Jooheon. She couldn’t wait to see the look on his face when he walked into the surprise waiting for him.
As the conversation flowed effortlessly among the group, a sudden flurry of knocks on the door interrupted them, each one louder and more insistent than the last. The telltale sign was clear. The rest of the guys had arrived. Kihyun rose from his seat and moved toward the door while the others quickly rearranged themselves in the living room. Sanghee now sat closest to the door on the couch, Minhyuk sat slightly in front of her, Penelope positioned herself next to them, and Azalea stayed tucked in the corner, concealed from view, a deliberate placement for the final surprise of the evening.
The door swung open, and the guys entered the room, their voices lively and energetic. Jooheon was the last to step inside, his eyes widening as he took in the decorations and the effort put into the setup. “Wwwoooaaahhh! This is amazing. Thank you so much! I didn’t expect all this!” he exclaimed, his face glowing with appreciation as he hugged everyone in gratitude.
As Jooheon embraced Kihyun, his back to the group, Penelope seized the moment. “Hey, Jooheon! One more surprise over here!” she called, her voice carrying a teasing lilt.
Jooheon turned, his curious expression melting into pure joy when he heard Azalea say softly, “Hey, Jooheon. Happy Birthday.”
Jooheon’s face lit up like the decorations around him. “Azalea!” he exclaimed, rushing toward her for a warm hug. “Thank you so much for coming. Now my party feels complete!”
The other guys, just as surprised to see Azalea, followed suit, offering hugs and warm welcomes. Azalea smiled, her nervousness melting away in the wave of friendship and kindness. She eventually settled back into her seat, her cheeks bright red from the excitement.
“Since this is a party, we need some music,” Hyungwon announced, breaking the buzz of chatter. Minhyuk quickly grabbed his phone, scrolling through Spotify before selecting a playlist with upbeat, party-ready tracks. Soon, the room was filled with laughter, dancing, and lighthearted banter.
Azalea found herself twirling playfully when I.M noticed her outfit. “Wait, isn’t this one of the outfits we picked out at the mall?”
She nodded, beaming. “Yes, it is!” she replied, letting out a laugh as she gave a little spin to show off her look: a sleek square-neck contour sculpt long-sleeve bodysuit paired with distressed mid-rise baggy jeans and white ankle sneakers.
As the music faded after a particularly energetic song, Kihyun clapped his hands. “Alright, everyone! Let’s eat before the food gets cold.”
The group moved to the kitchen, grabbing plates from the counter with a delicious spread. Jooheon subtly maneuvered his way next to Azalea in line, leaning slightly toward her. “Are you enjoying yourself?” he asked, his voice soft yet curious.
Azalea smiled warmly. “I am. But tonight isn’t about me; it’s about you. So, are you having a good time?”
Jooheon’s lips curved into a grin. “I’m having an amazing night so far. Definitely one of the best. Let’s see if it earns the title of the best by the end.”
After filling their plates, they sat at the table, conversing with the others. Azalea shared a funny story about her coworkers trying to pry into her life, mentioning Kihyun in passing as “Penelope’s boyfriend” to deflect their curiosity. The table erupted in laughter at her recounting.
The talk eventually shifted to the excitement for the upcoming mini-golf outing, with everyone chiming in about their plans and strategies.
Once dinner was over, Azalea naturally started helping Kihyun clean up, the two working seamlessly in the kitchen to clear the table and load the dishwasher. Penelope stood and clapped her hands to get everyone’s attention. “Hold on, everyone! Stay where you are. We’re not done yet. There’s one more surprise!”
She began passing out small plates and forks before disappearing into the kitchen. When she returned, she carried a cake adorned with vibrant decorations and placed it in front of Jooheon.
Penelope placed the cake gently on the table, revealing a masterpiece that instantly captivated everyone. The cake was designed as an adorable honeybee, its plump body painted with bold black and yellow stripes and yellow wings.
A pool of yellow “honey” spread out to the side of the bee. The word “Honey” was written in gold lettering at the center of the puddle, catching the light and drawing attention to the detail.
Jooheon’s jaw dropped, his expression a mix of delight and awe. “This is incredible,” he said, running a finger just above the design as if afraid to ruin it. “You guys really outdid yourselves.”
Kihyun smirked, crossing his arms. “It’s all Changkyun and my brilliant design ideas, of course. The bakery just brought it to life.”
Azalea leaned closer to take a better look, her face lighting up. “This is the cutest cake I’ve ever seen. It’s so fitting!”
Jooheon grinned at her and then at the rest of the group. “I don’t even want to cut into this. It’s too perfect!”
Penelope laughed. “Well, you better, or we’ll all be sitting here staring at it instead of eating dessert.”
Jooheon laughed, his eyes lighting up at the sight of the cake. “You guys went all out. Thank you so much! I love this!”
The group broke into a rambunctious rendition of “Happy Birthday,” their voices filling the apartment as Jooheon leaned forward to blow out the candles.
With a chuckle, Jooheon finally took the knife and carefully sliced into the cake, revealing a fluffy golden interior that matched the theme. Everyone clapped and cheered as he plated the first slice and offered it to Azalea.
She waved her hands, laughing. “It’s gorgeous, but I’m not a cake person. You enjoy it!”
They teased her lightly but quickly dove into the cake, commenting on its flavor and marveling again at its design. The honeybee cake became the centerpiece of the evening’s conversation, cementing itself as one of the night’s most memorable highlights.
After the cake was cut and the cleanup was done, everyone moved back into the living room, ready to continue the night. The music resumed, and the atmosphere echoed with laughter, chatter, and energy. Azalea found herself drawn into the group’s playful dynamic, watching how naturally they interacted with each other. Their camaraderie warmed her heart, and she felt grateful to be included in such a close-knit circle.
The music varied from upbeat party anthems to slower tracks that set a mellow tone. Azalea danced occasionally, sometimes by herself and other times alongside one of the guys. They kept a friendly distance, their movements lighthearted and full of humor. She loved the environment’s comfort; there was no pressure, just pure fun.
During a quieter moment in the playlist, Jooheon approached her. “Hey, Azzy, want to join me on the balcony? I could use some fresh air.”
She nodded, fanning herself dramatically. “You read my mind. I’m melting from all that dancing.”
They stepped onto the balcony, where the crisp evening air was a welcome contrast to the warm, bustling living room. The city lights twinkled below, and a soft hum of distant traffic filled the space between them.
“Are you having a good time, Azalea?” Jooheon asked, leaning casually against the railing.
“I am,” she replied sincerely. “But like I’ve told you before, this is your night. Quit worrying about me, Joo. The real question is, are you having a good night?”
He smiled at her use of his nickname. “Joo, huh? Most people call me Honey. But I like it. It’s different.”
She shrugged playfully. “Guess I’m just not like most people.”
He laughed softly. “No, you’re not. And yeah, I’m having an amazing time. Thanks to all of you for making it so special.”
He hesitated for a moment before speaking again. “Can I ask you something? It’s okay if you say no.”
“Of course. What’s up?”
“Would it be alright if I got your number? I figured we could text about Marvel or... anything else, really. But no pressure.”
Azalea smiled, touched by his shy sincerity. “Of course, Joo. Give me your phone.”
He handed it to her, and she quickly added her number, texting herself to save his number as well. “There, now we’re officially connected. Feel free to text me whenever. I’ll reply when I can, okay?”
His face lit up as he hugged her tightly. “Thank you, Azalea.”
“Anytime,” she said warmly. “And you can call me Azzy.”
They returned to the living room still chatting, their conversation natural and easy. Penelope intercepted Azalea as Jooheon walked back to the group.
“What was that about?” Penelope asked, a knowing look on her face.
“Oh, nothing much. He asked if I wanted to cool off, so we stepped out for some air. We just talked for a bit, and he gave me his number so we can talk Marvel movies and stuff,” Azalea said casually, though her cheeks were slightly flushed.
Penelope’s eyes widened. “Wait, he gave you his number? Jooheon never gives his number to anyone outside this group.”
Azalea shrugged modestly. “I mean, I guess I’m sort of part of the circle now. Nothing too crazy, Penny. And thank you again for introducing me to everyone. I really needed this. You have no idea.” She glanced at the group and smiled. “But let’s focus on the birthday boy tonight, not me.”
Penelope smiled approvingly and patted her shoulder before heading back to Kihyun. She slid her arms around him and whispered, “She’s fitting in perfectly. And I think we might have a secret admirer on our hands.”
Kihyun followed her gaze toward Jooheon, who was stealing a quick glance at Azalea before looking away with a sheepish smile. “Do you really think he likes her?”
Penelope grinned. “I’ve got a feeling. I’ll keep an eye on it, but something tells me there’s more to his smiles than just being polite.”
Kihyun chuckled, leaning in to kiss her softly. “If you’ve got a feeling, I won’t argue.”
The night unfolded with laughter, music, and lighthearted fun. Azalea danced more with the group, her infectious joy and presence undeniably felt. As the evening drew on, it was clear that she was becoming an integral part of their circle and, perhaps, something more to one of them.
As the evening wore on, the guys decided to call it a night. They said their goodbyes one by one, hugging everyone as they left. Each farewell was warm and heartfelt, and Azalea was no exception to their circle of affection.
When it was Jooheon’s turn to hug her, his embrace lingered longer than the others. He leaned in slightly, his voice low so no one else could hear. “Don’t forget, you can text me anytime, Azzy. Doesn’t matter what time it is; I’ll reply when I can.”
She smiled, appreciating the sentiment. “Thanks, Joo. I’ll keep that in mind.”
Reluctantly, he let her go, keeping his expression casual to avoid drawing suspicion. Azalea thanked him once more and wished him a happy birthday, and then watched as the group filtered out the door, their laughter trailing into the night.
Once the guys were gone, Penelope grabbed her keys, ready to take Azalea home. They said their goodbyes to Kihyun, Sanghee, and Minhyuk, hugging them before heading out. “See you all next weekend,” Azalea called cheerfully as she followed Penelope out.
The ride home was peaceful, the city lights casting a soft glow as they rode in the back of the car. When they arrived at Azalea’s apartment, she waved goodbye and thanked Penelope for the ride before heading inside.
Once settled, Azalea grabbed her phone to send two quick messages.
The first was to Charli:
Azzy Baby: I have so much to tell you tomorrow when we speak. 😊
The second was to Jooheon:
Azzy: I’m home. Have a good night, Joo. Happy birthday again. ❤️~Azzy.
Feeling a warm contentment settle over her, Azalea set her phone down and climbed into bed. It had been a night filled with laughter, connection, and joy, one she wouldn’t soon forget.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a like, reblog, notes, and/or a message in my inbox! I would love to hear your feedback! ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆
Azalea’s phone buzzed in her apron pocket during her shift the next day. When a quick lull occurred, she glanced at the screen to see a message from Penelope.
Penny: Everyone voted for mini golf! Now we just need to decide when. I suggested next weekend to give us more time to plan since this weekend is coming up so fast. What do you think?
Azalea couldn’t help but feel a twinge of disappointment. Logically, Penelope’s suggestion made sense, but the thought of going a whole weekend without seeing everyone left her feeling down. Still, she knew it was for the best. Quickly typing back, she replied,
Azzy: That sounds like a good plan. Let me know what everyone else decides!
Penelope passed the idea along to Kihyun so he could discuss it with the rest of the group. Still, not long after, another message popped up on Azalea’s phone.
Penny: This weekend is Jooheon’s birthday! We’re planning a surprise get-together for him on Saturday, and you’re invited! Let me know if you’d like to come so I can pick you up before the guys arrive. That way, you can be part of the surprise.
Azalea’s heart skipped a beat. Jooheon’s birthday is this weekend. Our birthdays are so close! she thought. Excitement bubbled up at the prospect of seeing everyone, even if the occasion was different than she had imagined. She said this is still a mini gathering before the actual group outing. However, she quickly reminded herself it was about Jooheon, not me, so she should keep the focus there.
Without hesitation, she replied,
Azzy: Of course, I would love to be there! Thank you for the invite. Let me know what time is best to be ready.
Penelope’s response was prompt:
Penny: Be ready by 3. I told the guys to bring Jooheon around 5, and I don’t want to risk anything ruining the surprise.
Azalea felt a genuine smile stretch across her face, one that lingered throughout the rest of her shift. Her coworkers, who were used to her polite smile for customers, noticed this change immediately.
“Okay, Azalea, what’s going on?” one of them teased. “You’re glowing today.”
“Oh, nothing,” Azalea replied with a laugh, though her giddy mood was impossible to hide.
When Azalea got home that night, she pulled out her phone to message Charli. She typed out everything that had happened during the day, starting with how the group had chosen mini golf and how the outing was planned for the following weekend, right on her birthday.
She explained how she had decided not to mention her birthday to anyone, as she didn’t want the focus to shift or make it seem like she was seeking attention. She also told Charli about the surprise party for Jooheon and how thrilled she was to be invited.
After hitting send, Azalea set her phone down, knowing Charli wouldn’t see the message until morning. Despite not getting an immediate response, sharing her thoughts made her feel lighter.
With a smile, she finished her nightly routine. She climbed into bed, and excitement for the weekend continued to build up as she drifted off to sleep.
The rest of the week felt like it dragged on forever as Azalea eagerly counted the days until Saturday. She couldn’t wait to see everyone again and celebrate Jooheon’s birthday. When her alarm finally went off that morning, she practically jumped out of bed, her excitement driving her every move.
Determined to look her best, she chose a new outfit she had bought during the shopping trip to Forever 21. After hopping in the shower, she carefully followed her skincare routine. She moved on to the one makeup technique she knew. She kept her hair down, giving her bangs a quick touch-up with her straightener. As she got ready, she couldn’t contain her excitement, snapping selfies at every step and sending them to Charli.
The guy’s music played in the background the entire time, and Azalea found herself enjoying it more than she had expected. They were incredibly talented. Still, she decided not to mention to them, especially tonight, that she’d started listening to their songs. She wanted to save that revelation for another time, maybe next weekend. Tonight was about Jooheon.
Her phone buzzed with a text from Charli.
C.J.: Who’s this girl? She’s hot.
Azalea burst out laughing.
Azzy Baby: Stop it, C.J..
C.J.: Come on, Azzy Baby!! You look so good. I can’t wait to see the outfit. You don’t even need to try, and you look amazing. Who are you trying to impress? 😉
Azzy Baby: C.J.! No one! And I don’t look good. I wish I knew how to do makeup better. I’m just trying to look decent for the party. Everyone always looks so put together, and then there’s me, who looks like I wandered out of an orphanage. But I’ll send you a photo once I have the outfit on.
By 2:00 p.m., Azalea was finally putting on her outfit. Once everything was in place, she stepped back far enough in the bathroom to take a full-length mirror shot. She sent it to Charli and waited nervously for her response.
Moments later, Charli replied with a single wide-eyed emoji.
Azalea stared at the message, unsure how to interpret it, and quickly sent a laughing emoji to fill the silence. Before she could dwell on it, her phone buzzed again. This time, it was a text from Penelope:
Penny: Ten minutes away. Meet me downstairs.
Azalea grabbed her bag, double-checked to ensure she hadn’t forgotten anything, and headed downstairs to meet Penelope, her heart pounding excitedly.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a like, reblog, notes, and/or a message in my inbox! I would love to hear your feedback! ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆
Monday rolled around, and Azalea still rode the high from her weekend at Penelope’s. Her good mood didn’t go unnoticed at work.
“Wow, Azalea, you seem different today,” Sung remarked as she stood at the counter.
Min-Ji leaned over from her station, nodding. “Yeah, there’s definitely a glow about you. Did something exciting happen?”
Azalea smiled, her cheeks flushing slightly. “I just had an enjoyable weekend hanging out at Penelope’s.”
Sung glanced at her curiously. “Oh, by the way, who was that guy with her the other day?”
“Just her boyfriend,” Azalea replied casually before returning to work.
Later that afternoon, while the café was at a downtime, her phone buzzed with a message from Penelope.
Penny: Hey! We’re texting the guys, too, but we’re trying to plan a group outing soon with everyone. We want to gather ideas first. We can do something fun as a group and text it to me. I’ll pass them to Ki, and then we’ll make a poll so everyone can vote. After that, we’ll figure out the best time to do it!
Azalea read the message with a smile and quickly typed back a response.
Azzy: That sounds amazing! Once I have some ideas, I’ll send them to you. Thanks again for an incredible weekend. It meant a lot to me.
The rest of the day went by in a blur of orders and cleaning, and by the time Azalea got home, she was ready to relax. She showered and then drew a warm bath, letting the water ease her into a calm state. As she soaked, her thoughts drifted to potential group activities she could suggest.
Paintballing? Laser tag could be fun. Or go-karting... Oh, and mini-golf! Those are always great for groups, she mused. She remembered a spot back home where you could do all those activities in one place, but she wasn’t sure if they had something similar nearby.
Her thoughts also wandered to her birthday, which was fast approaching. She hadn’t mentioned it to anyone and didn’t plan to. Birthdays had always been bittersweet for her. Charli and her brother had been the only ones to make them feel special, and now, she preferred to let the day pass quietly. Drawing attention to herself wasn’t her style, and the idea of disrupting the group dynamic with personal celebrations made her uncomfortable.
Once out of the bath, Azalea dried off, got into her pajamas, and sent a message to Penelope before settling into bed.
Azzy: Here are a few ideas I thought of: Paintballing, Laser Tag, Go-Karting, and Mini-Golfing. Back home, there’s a place where you can do all of these in one spot. Not sure if there’s something like that here, but I thought these could be fun!
Meanwhile, Penelope was in her living room with Kihyun, Sanghee, and Minhyuk when her phone buzzed. She picked it up, smiling as she read Azalea’s message aloud.
“These are solid ideas,” Minhyuk said, nodding.
“I like all of them,” Sanghee agreed.
Kihyun quickly pulled out his phone and sent a message to the guys’ group chat:
Kihyun: Hey, Azalea sent some awesome ideas for our group outing: Paintball, Laser Tag, Go-Karting, and Mini-Golfing. What do you all think? Should we just vote on these?
The responses came in almost immediately, with everyone agreeing that her suggestions were perfect and that adding more was unnecessary.
Back in the living room, Penelope laughed as she texted Azalea.
Penny: Hey, Azzy, guess what? The guys liked your ideas so much that they didn’t want to add any others. We’ll just vote on the ones you came up with. Let me know your top pick so I can tell them your vote!
Smiling to herself, Penelope set her phone down, anticipating how much fun the next group outing would be.
When Azalea woke up on Tuesday morning, the soft light streaming through her window was accompanied by the familiar alarm of her phone. She reached for it groggily and saw a message from Penelope reminding her to pick a top choice for the group outing. The suggestion sparked a smile, but she wasn’t ready to decide. All four options seemed like they would be exciting. She could already picture the laughter and mayhem each activity could bring. Questions lingered in her mind. How competitive would the guys get? Could the chaos escalate into something awkward or hilarious? Would someone take it too seriously?
“I’ll think about it later,” she mumbled, setting her phone aside and swinging her legs out of bed. After a quick shower and breakfast, Azalea put on her work uniform and exited the door, ready to start the day.
At the café, the air was filled with the decadent aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the chatter of morning customers. Azalea tied her apron and stepped onto the floor, her practiced smile in place. The rhythm of the café was familiar. She took orders, delivered steaming cups of coffee, and balanced trays of pastries as she moved between bustling tables.
Despite the rush, her thoughts wandered to the group outing. She chuckled quietly as she imagined scenarios: Shownu might be the calm leader in paintball, while Jooheon would definitely bring the competitive energy in laser tag. Mini-golf? That could turn into a comedy show with their playful banter. She mused that go-karting might be the wildcard, imagining everyone zooming around and laughing as they bumped into each other.
“Azalea, you seem distracted today,” her coworker Minho said with a raised brow as they passed each other behind the counter.
“Just thinking about some plans with friends,” she replied with a shrug and a smile.
“Well, don’t think too hard. You might spill something!” Minho teased, earning a laugh from Azalea.
The day flew by in a blur of orders and conversations, but Azalea found her thoughts shifting to a new idea during her short break. She realized it might be time to listen to their music. She’d held off until now, not wanting the polished image of their public personas to overshadow her impressions of them as people. I’ll just stream their songs, she decided. No videos yet; I want to enjoy the music without any preconceived ideas.
By the time her shift ended, Azalea felt both tired and content. She headed home, the evening sun casting a warm glow over the streets. Once home, she quickly changed and settled into her cozy routine. As she relaxed, she mentally revisited the group outing options. All four sound so fun. How am I supposed to choose just one?
Finally, Azalea reached for her phone and typed a reply to Penelope.
Azzy: Hey, I’ve been thinking, and I love all the ideas! Paintball, laser tag, mini-golf, or go-karting all sound amazing. I can’t pick a favorite yet, but I’ll let you know soon.
Setting her phone down, she felt a slight buzz of excitement. Between getting to know her new friends and exploring their music, her world steadily expanded, and she was ready to embrace whatever came next.
After a few hours of aimlessly scrolling through the internet, Azalea immersed herself in her usual video and meme exchange with Charli. The two had a rhythm to their long-distance friendship, sharing laughter across time zones, sometimes in real-time when Charli was awake and other times leaving surprises for the other to find later. Azalea also spent some time streaming a few of the guys’ songs, her curiosity gradually becoming admiration.
As the melodies played softly in the background, Azalea’s thoughts returned to the group outing. She didn’t want to hold everyone up with her indecision. It’s not that serious, she thought with a smile. They’re probably not even waiting on me, but I still want to give them an answer soon.
Finally, she made her decision. Grabbing her phone, she messaged Penelope:
Azzy: Okay, Penny, I think my vote is mini golf! This was a hard choice because all the ideas sounded terrific, but mini golf would be a blast. Let me know what everyone else says! No matter what the choice is, I’m so excited to go. I won’t be disappointed either way.
Feeling a sense of relief, she hit send. Sitting on the couch with Kihyun, Penelope noticed her phone light up and smiled as she read Azalea’s message. “She’s chosen mini golf,” Penelope said, passing her phone to Kihyun.
“That’s a solid choice,” Kihyun replied, quickly typing a message in the group chat to inform the others of Azalea’s vote. Now, it was up to the rest of the guys to weigh in. Once the votes were tallied, they could devise a plan and a date for their adventure, which it would turn into with everyone going together.
Azalea leaned back on her bed, feeling a little lighter now that she’d made her choice. Mini golf with this group? That’s bound to be hilarious, she thought, her excitement building. Whatever the outcome, she knew one thing for sure: this would be a day to remember.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a like, reblog, notes, and/or a message in my inbox! I would love to hear your feedback! ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆
The alarm buzzed softly at 6:30, its low buzz just enough to stir Azalea awake without disturbing the rest of the apartment. She stretched under the covers, her body resisting the call to get up after the late night before. The pale light of dawn crept through, casting soft patterns on the walls. She stayed still for a moment, letting herself wake up slowly, her thoughts foggy but warm as she replayed snippets of the night before.
The guest room was quiet, and Azalea didn’t want to risk waking anyone by opening the door too early to grab some tea. Instead, she resolved to power through her grogginess. She glanced at her phone. It was almost 7:00 a.m., time for her video call with Charli.
Propping herself up on the pillows, she tapped the screen and waited for the ring to connect. It barely rang twice before Charli’s familiar voice came through, bright and cheerful.
“AZZY BABY!!”
Azalea suppressed a laugh, quickly shushing her friend. “C.J., keep it down! It’s still early, and I think everyone else is asleep,” she whispered, unable to hide the smile in her voice. “Besides, I’m exhausted. We didn’t go to bed until after two.”
“Ooh, my girl was up late, huh? Spill! Tell me everything!” Charli whispered conspiratorially.
Azalea couldn’t help but giggle. She went into a detailed recap of the previous day, her voice enthusiastic but soft as she recounted the movies, the playful banter, and the unexpected but endearing moments, like Jooheon’s hug.
“And then,” she added, her cheeks warming narrowly, “there was this moment where I noticed his dimples when he smiled, and… I don’t know. They caught me off guard.”
Charli stayed quiet for a moment, listening closely. She could hear the slight shift in Azalea’s tone whenever Jooheon’s name came up, but she decided not to tease her. Instead, she focused on Azalea’s excitement about finally meeting people who shared her love for Marvel, a connection she’d always struggled to find back home.
“That’s amazing, Azzy,” Charli said warmly. “I’m so happy you’re finding your people.”
Azalea nodded. “Yeah, it feels... different. Good, but different. We’re starting the next set of movies today. There are four left on the list.”
“Four?” Charli laughed softly. “You’re really doing the most, huh? I love that for you.”
The conversation shifted as Charli filled Azalea in on her week back in Florida. “Same old, same old,” Charli said. “Weather’s still bipolar, hot one day, cold the next. But hey, no hurricanes this season so far, so that’s a win.”
Azalea chuckled. “That’s Florida for you. Always keeping us on our toes.”
Charli’s voice turned thoughtful. “Speaking of seasons, it’s almost time for our favorite holiday. Got any Halloween plans yet?”
Azalea hesitated, her smile fading slightly. “Not really. I’ll probably just stay home. I haven’t even decorated this year.” Her voice grew quieter. “You know how I get after it... and being away from you makes it harder.”
Charli softened. “Azzy, I know it’s tough, but you’ll get through it. You always do. And remember, no matter how far away I am, you can call me anytime, okay?”
Azalea felt a lump rise in her throat but swallowed it down, grateful for Charli’s unwavering support. “Thanks, C.J. That means a lot.”
Before they knew it, it was 8:00 a.m. The two friends said their goodbyes, and Azalea hung up, letting the phone lay on her chest for a moment. A wave of homesickness washed over her, catching her off guard. She wiped at the tear that slipped down her cheek, taking a deep breath to steady herself.
Just then, her phone buzzed with a message from Penelope:
Penny: Morning! Everyone’s up and getting breakfast. Come join us when you’re ready!
Azalea sat up, running her hands over her face to mask any trace of her earlier tears. She caught her reflection in the mirror and offered herself a small, encouraging smile. “You’ve got this,” she whispered.
After smoothing her hair and taking one last deep breath, she stepped out of the guest room and into the living room, where the cheerful murmur of voices and clinking plates greeted her. Penelope waved her over with a grin, and Azalea returned the smile, letting the warmth of the group lift her spirits as she joined them for breakfast.
Azalea joined Penelope on the couch, her plate balanced carefully in her hands as she slid into the seat beside her friend. The warm aroma of breakfast filled the room, mingling with the soft tone of conversation. Penelope looked up with a knowing smile.
“How was your date with Charli this morning?” she asked, her tone gentle.
Azalea smiled faintly, taking a sip of her orange juice before replying. “It went well. She is excited for me, especially after I told her about everything that happened yesterday.” Her voice softened as she added, “I did feel a bit homesick after we hung up, though. I miss her so much, you know? But talking every week helps.”
Penelope placed a comforting hand on Azalea’s shoulder. “That’s completely normal. It sounds like she’s cheering you on, though. You’ve got this.”
The two continued chatting as they ate, sitting together on the couch. At the same time, the guys remained in the kitchen, their laughter and banter echoing faintly. Jooheon, who had casually positioned himself near the living room doorway, caught snippets of their conversation. Though he wasn’t trying to eavesdrop, Azalea’s voice drew his attention in a way he couldn’t quite explain.
His thoughts spiraled briefly: What’s going on with you? You barely know her. Why does what she’s talking about matter? Just keep it together, and don’t make this weird. She’s clearly been through a lot. Just... focus on today.
By the time everyone finished breakfast, Azalea had taken it upon herself to help Kihyun clear the table and start on the dishes.
“Azzy,” Kihyun said with a raised eyebrow as she rolled up her sleeves, “you know you don’t have to help. You’re a guest.”
Azalea smiled, shaking her head. “I know, but if you won’t let me pay for anything, at least let me help. It’s the least I can do. Otherwise, I’d feel like I was taking advantage.”
Kihyun chuckled, relenting with a slight nod. “All right, deal. But don’t think you’re off the hook from relaxing later.”
“Deal,” Azalea replied with a grin as they worked side by side, quickly tidying up the kitchen.
When they joined the others in the living room, Azalea noticed Jooheon and Shownu leaning against the coffee table. She tilted her head, a hint of concern in her voice.
“Hey, guys, that coffee table doesn’t exactly look like the most comfortable backrest. You can sit closer and use the couch if you want. I don’t mind if no one else does.”
Jooheon didn’t hesitate, shifting to sit on the floor closer to Azalea and using the couch as a backrest. Shownu followed, settling near Penelope and Kihyun.
Once everyone was situated, Kihyun grabbed the remote and grinned. “All right, let’s start Homecoming.”
The group settled in as the opening scenes of Spider-Man: Homecoming filled the screen, the room quiet except for the occasional rustle of snacks or a soft chuckle at a witty line. Afterward, they transitioned seamlessly into Black Panther, the action and emotion of Wakanda captivating everyone.
When the credits rolled, the time showed just past 1:00 p.m. Penelope stretched, breaking the silence. “Okay, time for a break,” she said. “We’ll stop here for lunch, then move through the last two movies this afternoon.”
Azalea nodded, feeling the room’s energy shift as they prepared for the next part of their Marvel marathon. The day was unfolding with an ease she hadn’t expected, and she couldn’t help but feel a growing sense of belonging among the group.
The group decided to switch things up for lunch with a pasta dish, and Azalea’s face lit up at the suggestion. Penelope revealed they already had the ingredients on hand, and Kihyun immediately volunteered to cook, claiming it wouldn’t take long.
As Azalea followed him into the kitchen, a familiar pattern unfolded. “Let me help,” she insisted, rolling up her sleeves.
Kihyun turned to her with an exaggerated sigh, hands on his hips. “Azalea, we’ve been over this. You’re a guest. You don’t need to lift a finger.”
“And we’ve been over this,” she shot back, crossing her arms. “I feel guilty sitting around while you do all the work. It’s not fair.”
The bickering began, escalating into playful accusations of stubbornness and overly polite guest etiquette. The sounds of their back-and-forth echoed through the apartment, drawing the attention of the others.
From their spot in the living room, Jooheon leaned forward, grinning. “What’s going on in there?”
Penelope smirked. “Oh, just round two of ‘Who’s More Stubborn.’ I’ve got my money on Azzy this time.”
Shownu, more reserved, watched the exchange with mild amusement, his brow furrowed as though debating whether to intervene.
Finally, Shownu stood up, his hands raised dramatically. “All right, children, break it up!” he announced; Jooheon joined him, stepping into the kitchen. “Azalea, you’re officially part of the group now, which means Kihyun’s cooking comes with no strings attached.”
Azalea blinked, caught off guard by his declaration. “Wait, does that mean I’m, like, adopted or something?”
Jooheon grinned. “Exactly. Welcome to the family, sis. I’ve always wanted a little sister to annoy.”
Penelope burst into laughter while Kihyun shook his head, muttering something about “chaos” as he stirred the sauce.
Kihyun sighed dramatically. “Can I please get back to cooking without an audience?”
“Fine,” Azalea replied with a mischievous grin, stepping away, only to pivot back moments later. Spotting the stack of plates in a nearby cabinet, she began setting the table.
“Azalea,” Kihyun said, his voice filled with warning.
She turned to him, feigning innocence. “What? I’m not cooking. I’m just… preparing.”
He groaned in defeat as Azalea stuck her tongue out at him, her victory sealed.
Penelope and Jooheon dissolved into laughter from the living room while Shownu rubbed his temples with a quiet chuckle.
“You’re all exhausting,” Kihyun muttered, though a small smile tugged at his lips.
By lunch, the atmosphere was filled with laughter and the warmth of a makeshift family, each member settling into their unique role in the group dynamic.
Penelope leaned closer to Jooheon, lowering her voice with a grin. “Told you Azalea was going to win this one.” They both chuckled, careful not to draw attention. Unaware, though, Azalea caught the exchange and glanced at Jooheon, seated beside her. His broad smile was hard to miss, and she couldn’t help but smile back before concentrating on the task.
Once lunch was finished, Azalea insisted on helping Kihyun clean up. However, their earlier debate was still lingering in the air. Together, they cleared the table, rinsed the dishes, and loaded the dishwasher. As the appliance hum filled the kitchen, the group moved back to the living room to continue their marathon.
By 3:00 p.m., they were settled in to watch Infinity War. Everyone returned to their seats from earlier in the day, with Azalea tucking herself into her usual cozy corner of the couch, wrapped in her blanket. Jooheon sat nearby, entirely engrossed in the movie.
As the intense scenes unfolded, Jooheon unknowingly rested his hand on Azalea’s leg, his thumb idly moving in small circles. Azalea noticed but didn’t say anything. It didn’t bother her. It reminded her of simple, comforting gestures she and Charli used to share. Besides, with her onesie and blanket providing separation layers, it felt more absent-minded than intentional.
The room was silent except for the movie’s dialogue, but Azalea had prepared for this moment. Before they’d started, she’d discreetly grabbed a small pack of tissues, knowing full well that these last two movies always made her emotional. Though she tried to stifle her tears, the film’s distressing moments hit hard, not just because of the story but also the memories of her losses.
She thought she was hiding it well, but Jooheon, still absentmindedly rubbing her leg, noticed the slight jerks as she tried to suppress her sobs. He didn’t say anything, respecting her space and assuming it was just the weight of the movie’s emotions.
When Infinity War ended, they seamlessly transitioned into Endgame. The atmosphere in the room grew heavier as the final scenes played out, leaving everyone reflective. By the time the credits rolled, it was nearly 9:00 p.m.
Azalea excused herself, retreating to the guest room with her blanket and belongings. Once inside, she changed into a clean outfit to wear home and packed her things. Her face was red, and her eyes puffy, but she didn’t bother trying to conceal it too much. After all, the movies were a good enough excuse for anyone to tear up. She made sure everything was packed and ready for her to leave before she exited the room with her bag for the last time and a warm smile on her face.
As soon as she returned to the living room, the energy shifted. Jooheon’s gaze caught hers, and his expression softened with concern for a moment. He quickly masked it with a bright smile, pretending nothing had changed.
“I had a great time this weekend,” he said, standing to stretch. “Thank you for organizing this. I’m already looking forward to the next adventure.”
Azalea beamed at him. “Me too! I had such a wonderful time meeting everyone. Thank you all for being so welcoming. I already feel like part of the group.”
Shownu, ever-composed, added, “Hopefully, we can go somewhere together next time. It’d be nice to see everyone in a different setting.”
“That would be amazing,” Azalea agreed. “I’ve missed being around people like this. Thank you all for making me feel so at home.”
Penelope stood, grabbing her keys. “Alright, if you want to hang out a little longer, go ahead. I’m going to take Azzy home.”
Azalea exchanged hugs with everyone before following Penelope to the door. “Thank you all again,” she said, turning back to the group one last time. “This weekend was exactly what I needed.”
The weekend’s warmth lingered as the door closed behind them, leaving the others to reflect quietly on how quickly their bond had formed.
When Penelope returned, the guys were still lounging in the living room, deep in conversation. She set her keys on the counter and joined them, smiling as she spoke. “Thank you all for making this weekend such a success. Azzy had such a good time; I could tell from what she said and how she acted. She seemed... lighter, more at ease. It’s been a while since I’ve seen her like that.”
Jooheon chuckled, leaning back against the couch. “Yeah, though I was a little worried about this guy here,” he teased, playfully grabbing Shownu’s shoulder. “I wasn’t sure if he would scare her off with his usual antics.”
Shownu laughed, brushing off the jab.
Kihyun raised a brow, smirking. “Honey, I’ll give you credit. You did tone it down. You could’ve gone full ‘over the top,’ but you didn’t. We appreciate it. Though I have to say, it was nice having someone who could match your energy about Marvel. The rest of us were running on fumes by the end.”
Jooheon shot him a mock glare but couldn’t help laughing along. As the group’s laughter subsided, he hesitated momentarily, his thoughts racing. Would now be a good time to ask for her number? I could say it’s to talk about Marvel or get to know her better. Or should I hold off? What if the others have already asked?
Breaking the silence, Jooheon shifted gears. “So, what’s next for us? Are we actually going to plan that group outing like Shownu suggested earlier?”
Penelope nodded thoughtfully. “I’ve been thinking about that too. We should get everyone involved. Saturdays would probably work best for Azzy. She’s got plans every Sunday morning, so those are off-limits. But Saturdays make sense for all of us anyway, no work the next day, and we can always come back here to hang out after.”
“Sounds like a plan,” Kihyun agreed. “We’ll get everyone’s input. Penny, you can check with Azzy to see what kinds of outings she’s into, then let her know we’re brainstorming for something the whole group can enjoy.”
Jooheon tilted his head, curiosity getting the better of him. “What does she do on Sundays that’s so important? It must be big if she schedules everything around it. Does she have a boyfriend or something?”
Kihyun and Penelope exchanged knowing looks before bursting into laughter. Shownu sat there, looking confused but amused.
“No, nothing like that,” Penelope said, her tone softening. “Every Sunday morning, Azzy calls her best friend Charli in America. They talk for an hour and catch up on their week. They’ve been doing this since Azzy moved here and never missed a call. It’s... non-negotiable for her.”
“Charli’s all Azzy has left,” Kihyun added. “She has no family, and Charli is more than just her best friend. She’s her lifeline. Penny keeps Charli updated occasionally, and she’s even Azzy’s emergency contact. Charli’s been planning a surprise trip to visit her here.”
Jooheon’s expression shifted slightly, his usual carefree demeanor giving way to something quieter, more introspective. Penelope noticed the change but chalked it up to genuine interest in a new friend.
Shownu, ever the gentle giant, spoke up with a rare tenderness. “That’s... really important to her, then. We should do what we can to make sure nothing interferes with it. Sounds like she’s been through a lot.”
The room grew quiet for a moment before Kihyun broke the silence. “It’s getting late. Let’s wrap this up. I’ll message the group chat tomorrow so everyone can start throwing out ideas. Penelope, once you get Azzy’s suggestions, we’ll add those too. Once we’ve got a list, we can vote on the best and pick a weekend that works for everyone.”
Jooheon nodded, standing and stretching. “Sounds good. Let’s make it happen.”
As the group gathered their things and headed for the door, Kihyun and Penelope stayed behind, offering a cheerful “Goodnight!” in unison. The apartment quieted as they exited the front door, leaving the lingering warmth of a weekend well spent.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a like, reblog, notes, and/or a message in my inbox! I would love to hear your feedback! ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆
The café was winding down for the evening, with only a few lingering customers left. Azalea had already finished most of the cleanup, so once the last patrons exited, she locked the door behind them and focused on tidying up their area. Glancing outside, she noticed Penelope waiting by the door, bundled up against the evening chill, and smiled to herself.
After finishing up, Azalea joined the other staff in the back. They completed their tasks, walked through the back door, and locked it behind them. As they rounded the corner to the front of the café, the group exchanged goodbyes before heading their separate ways.
“Hey, Penny! I’m so excited about this weekend,” Azalea greeted her warmly.
“Me too, Azzy!” Penelope replied with a grin. “I just ordered a car, so it should be here soon. Ki was thrilled when I told him you asked him to stay this weekend. He was planning to head back to the dorms so you wouldn’t feel overwhelmed, but now he’s really looking forward to hanging out.”
Azalea felt a wave of appreciation for Kihyun’s thoughtfulness. She already felt at ease around him, so knowing he’d stay made her feel even more comfortable. It also relieved her that tonight would be a quiet introduction to the apartment, allowing her to settle in without too many people around.
The car arrived, and the two climbed in, chatting about the weekend plans as they rode to Penelope’s apartment. When they entered, Azalea’s face lit up as she spotted Kihyun sitting in the living room, scrolling on his phone.
“Hey, Azalea,” he greeted her with a smile.
“You can call me Azzy if you want to,” she said with a small laugh. “I’m glad you’re staying. I was worried you might leave.”
“Since you asked, I couldn’t leave,” Kihyun replied with an easy grin, his words making her smile grow even wider.
Penelope led Azalea to the guest room so she could get settled. “Take your time, Azzy. We’ll be out here when you’re ready.”
The room was simple. It had four bare walls, a small dresser, and a neatly made bed. Azalea placed her overnight bag on the dresser and changed into her black pajama pants and matching tank top. She pulled out her throw blanket, a cherished gift from her brother, and spread it over the bed. It was a small comfort she had never traveled without, along with the stuffed animal Charli had given her. Once everything was in place, she took a deep breath, feeling a little more at home, and headed back to join the others.
In the living room, Penelope and Kihyun looked up as Azalea approached. “Okay, so I was thinking about the movies,” she began. “Since we don’t have enough time to do the entire Marvel saga, maybe we could focus on the main Avengers’ introduction films. I’ve got a list of the key ones, but it’s still about 36 hours of content. So, we’ll need to narrow it down. I only request that we include Black Panther. He’s one of my all-time favorite heroes.”
Penelope and Kihyun exchanged knowing smiles.
“That’s perfect, Azzy,” Penelope said. “We can go over your list with the guys tomorrow and decide which ones to prioritize. You’re going to love spending time with them. But for tonight, let’s get some dinner, relax, and rest. We’ve got a long, fun weekend ahead of us.”
They ordered takeout, ate together while watching casual TV, and enjoyed the calm evening. When it was time to turn in, Azalea retreated to her room, where she pulled her blanket over herself and snuggled her stuffed animal. Before closing her eyes, she sent Charli a quick message:
Azzy Baby: Hey, C.J., I just wanted to let you know I’m safe at Penny’s and going to bed now. Thanks for encouraging me to come. It already feels like the right choice. Goodnight!
With that, she drifted off, ready for the adventure the weekend promised.
Azalea woke to the soft glow of morning light streaming through the blinds. She stretched but stayed in bed, hesitant to leave her room too early for fear of waking Penelope and Kihyun. Reaching for her phone, she saw a reply from Charli waiting for her:
C.J.: Hey, Azzy Baby. Thanks for letting me know that you’re safe at Penny’s. Have a great time this weekend! I can’t wait to hear all about it on Sunday. Love you.
She scrolled through her social media accounts to pass the time as she waited until she knew someone was awake. Not soon after, another message popped up. This time, it was from Penelope.
Penny: Good morning, Azzy! Ki and I are up making breakfast. Come join us if you’re awake!
Relieved to know she wouldn’t disturb anyone, Azalea quickly got ready and headed out to the kitchen. The smell of pancakes and eggs greeted her as she entered, and her eyes lit up when she saw Kihyun by the stove, flipping pancakes with practiced ease.
“Good morning!” she said, a hint of surprise in her voice. “This looks amazing.”
“Morning, Azzy,” Kihyun replied with a grin. “I hope you’re hungry!”
She hesitated momentarily, wondering if he’d gone to the extra trouble just because of her, but she decided not to overthink it. The three sat at the table, chatting and enjoying the hearty breakfast.
Midway through the meal, Kihyun glanced at his phone. “The guys just texted. They’ll be here in about an hour.”
By 9:00 a.m., a knock at the door signaled their arrival. Kihyun got up to answer it, and in walked two men, both dressed comfortably in sweatpants and hoodies. The first was tall, reserved, and a bit mysterious, offering a quiet smile as he hugged Kihyun in greeting. The second practically leaped in, his energy filling the room instantly.
“All right, let’s go! Movie time!” he announced, his excitement contagious.
“Tone it down, Honey,” Kihyun teased, shaking his head while laughing.
“I thought I was being calm!” the lively one shot back with a grin, earning a laugh from Penelope, who was watching from the living room.
Kihyun motioned for the newcomers to follow him into the room. “Come on, guys. Let me introduce you to Azalea.”
Azalea stood nervously as Kihyun began the introductions. “Azalea, this is Shownu,” he said, gesturing to the taller, quieter man.
“It’s nice to meet you, Shownu. Thanks for coming,” Azalea said, bowing politely.
Kihyun turned to the other man, his voice laced with amusement. “And this bundle of chaos is Jooheon. Jooheon, meet Azalea. She’s the one who came up with the Marvel marathon idea.”
She returned the greeting with a bow before sitting back down, trying to shake off her lingering nerves. Penelope took the lead, explaining the plan. “Azzy here had some thoughts about which movies to include, but we wanted to run it by you both before locking anything in.”
Jooheon plopped down on the floor near the coffee table, grinning. “Let’s hear it!” Shownu joined him, sitting cross-legged and looking expectantly at Azalea.
Taking a deep breath, she began. “I was thinking we could focus on the main Avengers’ origin movies and, of course, the Avengers titles. But even with that, it’s about 36 hours of content, which is too much. I made a list of movies we could cut, but I have one non-negotiable request: Black Panther stays on the list. He’s one of my absolute favorite heroes.”
Jooheon clapped his hands together. “Agreed! No way are we skipping that one.”
After some back-and-forth discussion, they managed to trim the marathon to a manageable 24 hours, starting with Captain America: The First Avenger. They all got up to make final preparations before the first movie. Azalea slipped into her room to grab her blanket and stuffed animal, texting Charli quickly to share her excitement.
In the living room, Kihyun made popcorn while Penelope laid snacks on the coffee table. Azalea settled onto the couch, feeling a mix of nerves and anticipation. As the opening credits rolled, the group relaxed into an easy rhythm, making jokes, trivia, and energetic commentary. For Azalea, it was the perfect start to what seemed to be a memorable weekend.
As the movie’s final scenes played out, Kihyun looked at his phone to check the time. Noticing it was nearly lunchtime, he stood quietly and headed to the kitchen, placing a pizza order. Knowing the group’s healthy appetite, he opted for four pizzas, two pepperoni and two cheese, to keep things simple.
As the credits began, Azalea leaned back on the couch, letting out a small sigh. “I love and miss Stan Lee’s cameos,” she said sadly. “They were like little treasure hunts in every movie. You never knew how he’d show up, but it always made the scene so much better.”
The room agreed, with Shownu nodding and Kihyun offering a “Definitely.”
“So, what’s everyone’s favorite moment from the movie?” Jooheon asked, his voice casual but his gaze lingering on Azalea. Although the question was for the group, it was clear he was eager to hear her take.
Azalea didn’t hesitate, leaning forward as she answered. “Honestly, they tried to emphasize Steve and Peggy’s love story, which is fine. But for me, the heart of the movie is Steve and Bucky’s friendship. It’s such a powerful bond; it goes beyond family and blood. Sometimes, the bond between two people who are not related can be so much more than those who share the same DNA. They’ve got this unfaltering loyalty, and I think that’s what makes their story more captivating.” She paused momentarily, eyes lighting up as she added, “But if I had to pick one scene? It’s when the 107th breaks free and storms back into camp. That whole sequence is so raw and triumphant. Sure, the fight with Red Skull is iconic, but I love the setup moments that show Steve’s true leadership and courage.”
Jooheon couldn’t take his eyes off her as she spoke, his usual playful demeanor replaced by a quiet intensity. Kihyun leaned against the wall, arms crossed, watching the exchange with a knowing look. Meanwhile, Penelope subtly glanced between Azalea and Jooheon, biting back a smile.
A sharp knock at the door jolted everyone out of the conversation. “Whoa,” Shownu muttered, his brows furrowing slightly as he glanced toward the door.
Unbothered, Kihyun straightened and headed over. “Relax, it’s just lunch,” he called over his shoulder, returning moments later with the pizzas stacked in his arms. He set them on the table, carefully opened the boxes, and placed plates and napkins around.
“Alright, everyone, let’s eat before we start the next movie,” Kihyun announced with an air of authority.
Azalea smiled at him, her gratitude evident. “Thanks so much for this, Kihyun. How much do I owe you for my share?”
Kihyun’s brow arched, and he shot her a pointed look. “You don’t owe me anything. You’re a guest here, remember?”
Penelope chuckled from her spot on the couch. “Azzy, you’d better not argue with him. Remember what happened with Wonnie the other night?”
Azalea groaned, rubbing her temples dramatically. “Don’t remind me. He wouldn’t let it go, no matter how much I insisted. I hate losing those kinds of battles.”
Penelope grinned. “Well, Ki’s worse. Trust me, it’s not even worth trying to fight him on this.”
Azalea glanced over at Shownu for confirmation, and he gave a subtle nod. Meanwhile, Jooheon was laughing while holding his stomach, his dimples on display. The sight caught Azalea off guard, and a faint blush crept up her cheeks. She quickly looked away, putting her plate down and excusing herself to the bathroom to regain her composure.
When she returned, everyone had settled back in the living room with their food, ready to start the next movie. Azalea reclaimed her seat, taking a bite as the opening scene of Iron Man played on the screen. The lively chatter softened, replaced by the familiar and soothing tone of the Theme song as the group immersed themselves in the story again.
By the time the group finished watching Iron Man, Thor, and The Avengers, it was just after 7:00 p.m. The living room felt cozier now, the soft hum of post-movie chatter filling the air as they stretched and shifted around. “Let’s take a break and figure out dinner,” Shownu suggested, leaning back and rubbing his neck.
“We had pizza for lunch,” Kihyun added, tapping his fingers on the coffee table. “How about something different?”
“Burgers and fries?” Shownu offered, glancing at the others for approval.
“That sounds perfect,” Azalea chimed in.
“Yes, Papa Bear, excellent idea,” Kihyun teased with a playful grin, causing Azalea to giggle.
“Wait, ‘Papa Bear’?” she asked, looking curiously at Kihyun.
“Yeah,” Jooheon interjected with a grin, leaning forward. “That’s what we call him. Shownu’s like the group’s dad, calm, steady, and always looking out for us. Big teddy bear energy, you know?”
Azalea laughed. “That actually makes sense.”
“They call me Honey, by the way,” Jooheon added. “Feel free to use it, too.”
Azalea smiled, her cheeks flushing slightly at his warm tone. She again noticed how prominent his dimples were when he smiled, especially when he smiled so big. Meanwhile, Penelope and Kihyun exchanged knowing glances, their expressions unreadable but amused by the growing interaction.
Kihyun clapped his hands together to refocus the group. “Alright, let’s get organized. Everyone, give Penny your order, and she will place it. In the meantime, stretch your legs. Once the food arrives, we’ll eat at the table and maybe knock out another movie or two before calling it a night.”
The food arrived just after 7:30 p.m.. They gathered around the table, the aroma of burgers and fries filling the air. As they dug in, the conversation shifted to Azalea, with the group asking her about her life before and in Korea, her friendship with Penelope, and her thoughts on meeting them.
Azalea wiped her hands on a napkin before answering. “Honestly, when Penelope told me about you guys at the dinner party, I decided not to look up anything about you. I wanted our interactions to feel natural without preconceived ideas about who you are.”
The room went silent for a moment as her words sank in. Even Penelope looked surprised, her brows lifting. “You didn’t?”
Azalea shook her head. “Nope. I figured if you guys wanted to share something about yourselves, you would. Until then, I wanted to treat everyone like you are- regular, normal, ordinary people. I thought it might make things easier for all of us.”
Shownu, Kihyun, and Jooheon exchanged glances, their expressions softening with gratitude. “That’s... really thoughtful,” Shownu said quietly.
“Yeah, it means a lot,” Kihyun added, his voice warm.
Without warning, Jooheon stood and walked over to Azalea. He hugged her tight, heartfelt, catching everyone off guard. Penelope’s mouth fell open slightly, and she shot Azalea a questioning look. “Are you okay?” she mouthed.
Azalea nodded subtly before returning the hug, lightly patting Jooheon’s back. “You’re welcome,” she said softly. “Like I told Penny, I believe in respecting people for who they are, not for what they’ve done or how the world sees them. You guys are no different.”
Jooheon pulled back and returned to his seat, his dimples still visible as he smiled. Penelope, meanwhile, fumbled for her phone to send Azalea a quick apology. She paused, realizing Azalea had left her phone in the guest room all day.
Once dinner was finished, Azalea insisted on helping clean up. She carried plates to the sink, rinsed them off, and loaded the dishwasher alongside Kihyun. The others returned to the living room, debating which movie to watch next. As Azalea finished wiping the counters, she glanced over her shoulder, feeling a newfound sense of belonging with the group.
By 8:45 p.m., the group started tidying up, their laughter and chatter mingling with the soft clatter of cleared dishes. Penelope and Kihyun disappeared into her room to change. At the same time, the guys headed to their respective rooms to slip into something more comfortable. Azalea decided it was the perfect time to retreat to the guest room. Once inside, she checked her phone and quickly changed into a new set of pajamas. She had been saving something special for this night: a cozy Iron Man onesie she had brought along.
“This will definitely get a laugh out of Jooheon,” she thought, smiling as she zipped it up.
Her phone buzzed with a message from Penelope:
Penny: Sorry again for Jooheon earlier. He’s affectionate, but I know sudden gestures like that can be overwhelming for you.
Azalea responded quickly, fingers flying over the screen:
Azzy: It’s okay! It caught me off guard, but after we talked, I felt more at ease with him, like when Wonnie held my hand. Thanks for checking in, though, Penny.
Satisfied, she slipped her phone onto the bedside table and tugged the onesie hood over her head. Iron Man’s iconic face stared back at her from the small mirror on the wall. With a grin, she headed back to the living room.
Penelope and Kihyun were sprawled on the couch when she entered, chatting quietly. They looked up as she walked in and immediately started laughing.
“Oh my god, Azzy!” Penelope exclaimed, clapping her hands together. “I love that onesie! Pure perfection.”
Kihyun leaned forward, a playful smirk tugging at his lips. “That’s so you. I bet Jooheon doesn’t even notice at first; he can be so oblivious sometimes.”
They all giggled, and Azalea pulled the hood further down over her head, determined to make it as apparent as possible.
Shownu emerged from the hallway a few moments later, looking freshly changed, followed closely by Jooheon, who had just come from the bathroom. Everyone settled back into their spots as the conversation shifted to their plan for the night.
Azalea stood near the TV, arms crossed in mock seriousness. “Alright, here’s the deal. Since it’s almost nine, I was thinking we could—”
She didn’t get to finish. Jooheon interrupted, his voice rising in mock shock. “Wait... Azalea! What are you wearing?”
Penelope and Kihyun burst out laughing, practically doubling over. Penelope managed to get out, “Took you long enough, Honey!”
Azalea struck a dramatic pose, pointing at herself with exaggerated flair. “I am Iron Man,” she deadpanned, her expression unchanging.
Jooheon blinked, momentarily stunned by her nonchalant delivery. Shownu, meanwhile, chuckled, shaking his head as she walked back to the couch.
Azalea continued as if nothing had happened. “So, as I was saying, let’s watch Age of Ultron next and finish with Civil War. By the time we’re done, it’ll probably be after two in the morning.”
Jooheon sat back, his dimples deepening as he grinned. “You really planned all this out, didn’t you?”
Azalea nodded enthusiastically. “Of course! I’ve watched the Marvel Cinematic Universe way too many times. My best friend C.J. always says I have an unhealthy obsession with it.” She paused, her cheeks reddening as she lowered her hood and tucked behind a blanket. “I watch everything chronologically, movies, shorts, and shows. It’s a whole system.”
The group erupted into laughter, the sound filling the cozy living room.
“You left out that little detail earlier,” Penelope teased, nudging her friend.
Azalea shrugged. “I didn’t want you to think I was a weirdo. Back home, people always thought I was strange. C.J. was the only one who got me.”
The atmosphere shifted slightly at her admission. Shownu and Jooheon exchanged glances, their expressions softening. Kihyun and Penelope both looked down, their faces unreadable.
“Azalea,” Jooheon said gently, “you’re not weird. You’re just you, and that’s awesome.”
Azalea peeked out from behind her blanket and smiled. “Thanks. I guess I’m still not used to people being this nice to me.”
Jooheon grinned. “Alright then, Iron Man. Let’s kick some Ultron butt!”
By the time Civil War ended, the clock had crept past 2:00 a.m. The group was visibly exhausted, yawns spreading like a chain reaction. Kihyun grabbed a stack of pillows and blankets from the corner and tossed them onto the floor.
“Alright, rock-paper-scissors for the couch,” he announced, and the guys immediately started arguing over who would get the coveted spot.
After a quick game and some playful shoving, everyone finally settled down. Everyone said their goodnights, retreating to their respective rooms.
Azalea double-checked her phone in the guest room to ensure her alarm was set for her early morning call. Satisfied, she sank into the soft mattress, pulling the blanket to her chin. Her thoughts drifted briefly to the warmth and laughter of the evening before sleep claimed her entirely.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a like, reblog, notes, and/or a message in my inbox! I would love to hear your feedback! ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆
As Azalea awoke, her mind stirred as she remembered Penelope’s text from the night before, which was left unanswered. She checked her phone to see if Charli had a message before he could proceed with the situation. She needed to know what advice Charli had for her. Sure enough, there it was.
Charli’s message was thoughtful, as always:
C.J.: I know, Azzy Baby. This seems sudden and fast. Penny just seems really excited. It might’ve been a thought that escaped before she could process any information. You’ve done that before, too. It sounds like something you’d enjoy. We’ve done this a million times. Think about it. It sounds peaceful. You’ve visited her house before, so it’s not entirely new. She even offered you a private room and knows we talk, so it’s not like she’s taking that away from you. Plus, there’s a door that you can lock if you feel uncomfortable. Don’t shoot it down just yet, okay? Really, think about it first. I love you.
Azalea reread the message, Charli’s calm reasoning sinking in. She was right; movie nights were nothing new to her, and Penelope had taken steps to ensure Azalea would be comfortable. Maybe it wasn’t as bad as it seemed.
Still, she needed time to think. The idea of meeting more new people and spending the night away from home felt like a lot. As she got ready for work, she hoped Penelope wouldn’t stop by the café today, not because she was upset but because a little extra space to process her thoughts would be helpful.
Across town, Penelope woke up feeling a pit of anxiety. She checked her phone immediately, but Azalea had not replied. She frowned, her excitement from the day before now replaced by worry. Did she come on too strong? Did she scare Azalea away?
Kihyun noticed her restless energy over breakfast. “Stop stressing,” he said gently, putting down his coffee. “Just give her space. She’s not the kind of person to ghost you; she may need time to think about everything you threw her way. Don’t go to the café today. Let her come to you when she’s ready.”
Penelope sighed but nodded. “You’re right. I’ll give her the space she needs. I just really hope I didn’t mess anything up.”
Penelope finished preparing for work, trying to distract herself from her nervousness. Meanwhile, Azalea made her way to the café, determined to sort through her thoughts and devise the right words to respond to Penelope.
The following day went by smoothly for Azalea. The café was bustling with activity, which kept her mind engaged and helped the hours fly by. She quietly mulled over Charli’s advice and Penelope’s invitation throughout the day. The more she thought about it, the more she realized Charli was right. She was overthinking things. A Marvel movie marathon sounded like the perfect escape, especially since the films had always made her happy. She even mentally organized which movies they could watch chronologically to maximize the experience. Since the marathon was only two days, they could vote on the key films to watch for the best flow.
By the time she made it home that evening, she felt more at ease with her decision. Settling onto her bed with her phone in hand, she sent Charli a quick reply:
Azzy Baby: C.J., you were right, as usual. I will message Penny and let her know I will go over for the movie marathon this weekend. I even have ideas about which movies to watch and in what order. I can’t believe I was so nervous about this.
Feeling a little more confident now, she moved on to texting Penelope:
Azzy: Good evening, Penny! I hope you had a great day. The café was super busy, so the day flew by for me. I am sorry for not responding sooner. I just needed time to think about everything. I wanted to let you know I’m all in for the movie marathon! I even have some ideas about what we can watch and the order. I’m a bit of a pro regarding this, LOL. Also, would it be okay if I came over Friday night after work? It might be easier that way, and we can get an earlier start on Saturday to squeeze in more movies. Let me know what you think!
Over at Penelope’s apartment, she was lounging in the living room with Kihyun, Sanghee, and Minhyuk when her phone buzzed. Not thinking much of it, she glanced at the screen, only to light up with a grin when she saw Azalea’s name. Her excitement must have been evident because Kihyun leaned over, snatching the phone before she could stop him.
He read the message aloud with a smirk. “What did I say, Penny? Give her a little time, and she’d come around. And look at that. She’s even bringing her own ideas to the table. That’s great!”
Sanghee, chatting quietly with Minhyuk, chimed in, “Actually, Min and I were talking earlier. Since Azzy’s still getting to know the guys and you’re introducing them slowly, we figured we’d head back to the dorms for the weekend. That way, it won’t feel overwhelming for her. If we’re all here, it’d almost feel like hosting the whole group at once.”
Kihyun nodded, “Yeah, I’ll stay at the dorm, too, or maybe I’ll just find something to do during the day while you guys watch movies. I can come back at night to sleep.”
“We’ll figure it out when the time comes,” Penelope replied with a small laugh, still giddy over the message. Not wanting to leave Azalea hanging, she quickly typed out her response:
Penny: Hey, Azzy, of course you can come over on Friday! That’s a great idea! I’ll swing by after work, and we can head to my place together. That way, we can chat about your movie ideas that night and plan for Saturday. We should discuss the final picks with the guys to see what they think. I’m so excited about this!
Moments later, Azalea replied:
Azzy: Oh, absolutely! I was thinking the same thing, checking with everyone. Also, is it okay if Kihyun stays? I know he doesn’t technically live there, but I’d feel bad if he left because of me. I really like everyone and want to get to know you all better. Plus, that way, you won’t feel stuck entertaining me the whole time. I know I can get boring, LOL.
Penelope read the message and turned to Kihyun with a triumphant smile. “Well, looks like this weekend’s plans just got even better. She specifically asked if you could stay, so no more excuses.”
Kihyun blinked, surprised, before a warm smile spread across his face. “She did, huh? Well, I guess I’ll stick around, then. That’s really sweet of her.”
Penelope grinned as she showed him the message, feeling like the pieces of the weekend were finally falling into place.
⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆ Thank you for reading! If you enjoyed this story, please feel free to leave a like, reblog, notes, and/or a message in my inbox! I would love to hear your feedback! ⋆⁺₊⋆ ☾⋆⁺₊⋆
