Your perfect world collapsed when an accidental drunken marriage with a stranger tainted it. As you navigate all the unexpected twists in your life, you started seeing the world in a different spectrum and the stranger seems to be the one showing you how to live life without expectations.
genre: slow burn (?), fluff, accidental marriage
word count: 10.1k
part one - part two (end)
didn’t expect for this to have this much words so i decided to split them into two parts. lmao. sorry!
Not yet proofread. June 26, 2026
tag list is open! let me know if you’d like to be added!
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“Where are you? Can you come faster, please?” Your friend talked through the phone, currently on speaker call.
About twenty minutes ago, you were just chilling in your bed, mindlessly scrolling through your tiktok… And now, you’re getting rushed by your friend to go to a fancy restaurant you’ve never been before. You slipped on the black heels you planned to wear for the night, muttering a faint “shit” when you struggled to do so.
“I’m almost ready to leave!” You shouted, running to the night stand to grab your phone and purse. “Look, it’s not my fault you’re making me get ready at—” You paused, looking at the clock, “—Nine thirty in the evening!”
“I know! I did say sorry earlier, didn’t I? Make sure you arrive at 10, okay? Drive safely!” The call ended before you could whine.
Shoving your phone inside your purse, you made your way towards the front door.
The restaurant was a lot fancier than you thought it would be. It’s so movie-coded, like a restaurant for rich people. Rich rich people. A place that your boyfriend and his family would love for sure. The place was lined with a red carpet, tables designed neatly with red and white roses, and the lighting was dim and sensual— like something big is about to happen.
The people that greet you were suited nicely. Even the female staff dressed so formal that you had to double check your dress. “Am I too under dressed for this?” You had asked your self. Thank God, your black heels with red soles made you look somewhat expensive. It is a birthday gift from your boyfriend afterall. And he never gifted you anything but luxury items.
“This way, madam.”
You caught a glimpse of your parents before everybody else, your brows furrowing in confusion. Your mother was teary eyed, standing next to your father with a proud smile on his face. That’s when you see the full vision of the scene. Your mom, your dad, your best friend smiling ear to ear, your boyfriend’s parents, his sisters, his best friend, and a couple more familiar faces of your circle.
“What? Why is everyone here?" You asked. Your boyfriend’s mom smiled at you just in time for your mother to sniff her tears away. “What?—”
Then you felt it, the chills that run on your back. It almost felt like you were being electrocuted but not in a good kind of way. Someone kissed your temple and a bouquet of flowers came into the view.
“Hi, my love.” You heard your boyfriend whispered in your ear, his hand slipping in your waist. “I missed you.”
“Hi.” You mumbled, feeling his warmth, eyes looking like a deer in head lights. But for some reason, your sweat started getting cold. “This is why you never replied to my message last night.” You breathed. Why is he here? He should be in London right now for his final exam!
“I had to surprise you.” He replied, standing in front of you this time. Your hands gripped the bouquet a little tighter. Red and white roses, even if you had told him a thousand times that you love tulips.
“I thought you won’t be back until September.”
“Well, I couldn’t wait to do this.”
Your eyes widened when your boyfriend kneeled on one knee, pulling out a red velvet box out of his pockets. You saw from your peripheral vision a lot of phones come up—and they’re all pointed at you. And to what your boyfriend is about to do.
“Love, I’ve been wanting to do this for the longest time and I know that you’ve been waiting for this, too. We’ve been together for five years, we’ve survived the long distance relationship and all the hardships that passed by. I want to thank you for standing by me and believing in me all this time. I want to thank you for never giving up on us. I know five years was too long, but now… Now, I am here.” Your boyfriend, Minjae, took a wavering breath, “I’ve always wanted to ask you this, but… Will you marry me?”
Your breath hitched but not in a way that you wanted. Your breath hitched because you don’t know the answer. Your mouth was itching to say “No” but when you looked up with all the phones pointed at you, you felt like you had no choice. Your eyes connected to your mother’s, tears falling down her cheeks as if she’s the one getting proposed to. To Minjae’s mom, who were nodding lightly as she wait for your response. And to your best friend, already doing tiny silent claps with her hands, beaming so bright at you.
Everyone waited for your answer that failed to leave your mouth.
“Love?”
Your eyes darted back to your boyfriend. His hands were shaking, the ring blinking under the spot light you both in. Still, you struggle to let out a “Yes” to his proposal.
“So, will you marry me?” Minjae asked again.
This time, your mother wailed. “Oh my god! My lovely daughter!”
Then it slipped past your lips, “Yes?” It was more of a question than an actual answer.
“Yes?” Minjae’s eyes brightened. The crowd behind him erupted in cheers. You saw how his sisters hugged in celebration. Your best friend hugging and jumping in enthusiast with your mom. And your dad— your dad, started wiping his tears away and clapped with every one else.
“Y-Yes.” You stuttered, then held out your hand.
The ring slipped in perfectly. No tugging, not loose. It was almost perfect.
Minjae engulfed you, “Thank you. Thank you so much. I love you.”
You hands instinctively pressed on his back, your chin on his shoulder, “I love you, too.”
In a span of minutes, you were bombarded with congratulatory messages. Everyone is happy. Minjae’s older sister even teased how you didn’t know you were attending your own engagement party. And then one by one, everyone started arriving at the venue. Your college friend that you had not seen for years, your high school study buddy, Minjae’s old soccer team, his coach… Everyone you could think of.
It was all planned so well without you. Your engagement party also became a reunion of all sorts. Families, friends, school mates. Even the high school classmates you were never closed with are present. It’s like Minjae invited everyone under the sun.
The ring glittered under the restaurant lights and you’ve been staring at it. Like if you stared long enough it will disappear and the party will be over. You’ve been smiling for endless photos, accepting all the congratulations, acting like a woman excited for marriage.
But deep inside, you’ve never felt so detached to reality. You felt guilty that every time you close your eyes you want all of these to be just a dream. No one noticed how you hesitate for half a second every time they asked if you can’t wait for the wedding.
It’s cause everyone is too fucking happy. And it kills you how you don’t feel the same.
When the party was over, Minjae told you that he has to go back to London the following day. He kissed you goodbye and told you that he might be busy studying. Minjae didn’t even drop you off at your apartment. He just left with his parents and told you that his sisters, Minji and Minhee, will be sending you recommendations of the venues where he planned both of you to get married.
“I can’t believe Minjae did all of this just to propose to you!” Your mother squealed. “He flew from London to Seoul just to propose! Even though he has an exam in two days!”
“Yeah…” You said, almost a whisper.
“Did you hear what he said earlier? He said that once he’s done with Med School, he’s gonna marry you right away! That’s like, 6 months away, darling!”
“Oh, yeah… I heard him.” You flinched at how close the date was.
“Are you okay?” You mom asked, noticing how you squirm under her gaze.
Before you could answer, your dad jumped in the conversation. “Stop pestering your daughter. She’s probably still overwhelmed.”
“Oh, right.” Your mom pressed a hand on her forehead, giggling. “Well, we’re leaving now, honey. Drive safely, okay?”
Right… you did drive here. Maybe that’s why Minjae didn’t bother because he knows that you have a car with you.
All you remember was the silent night after the chaos, the bright lights of Seoul that never seem to dim and the cold pressing into your skin when you got out of your car after driving for fourty minutes. You did detour a couple of times, trying your best to clear your clouded mind before taking the usual route on the way back home.
When you slipped off your heels, your body dropped on your mattress like your soul was sucked out of you. With one blink of an eye, you didn’t even know how you fell asleep. All you know was letting out the deep breath you’ve been holding since, yet your chest still tightened after doing so.
The sky was dull with no sign of sunshine for the day. The coffee you made in the morning had three shots of espresso. You were the kind of person who wouldn’t even bother pressing two extra shots but if it’s the only way to distract you from what happened the night before, you would’ve made eight more presses.
You were munching on your freshly sliced apples, swiping through the pictures Minjae’s sister sent to you. All of the venue she sent were none of your taste. Most were too extravagant, too much flowers in some, then too beige and white on others. The destination weddings that she sent too were… ugly. You can’t find the most fitting word for it.
I’ll ask mom for some opinion. I did like some of it :)
You pressed the blue arrow to reply to her message. You hated adding the last part but you know that you won’t have any other options other than the ones sent to you anyway.
Okay! Minjae liked all of this. I know you did too!
Was what you read before your phone dimmed and your reflection stared back at you. A groan escaped your lips, still not believing that this is your reality now.
Ding dong
You narrowed your eyes at the door, head tilting.
Ding dong
You blinked. You have no food orders and you’re not expecting any delivery. None of your friends gave you a heads up of coming over so who could be at your door right now?
Ding dong
With a frustrated sigh, you made your way to your front door. When you opened it, you didn’t expect for the security guard to greet you with a smile. “Good morning, Miss.”
“Hi… Good morning. Is something wrong?”
“No, Ma’am. You have a very important mail left at the front desk. It’s government stamped so I brought it up right away.”
Your eyes squinted. He handed you the white envelope and bid his goodbye. You thanked him, closing the door and locking it. You didn’t wait to sit in your living room couch. Once you turn your back, you were already ripping up the seal.
Your eyes widened when the paper unfolded.
CERTIFICATE OF MARRIAGE
One hand covered your opened mouth, while the other held the paper tightly. Your eyes scanned everything written on the paper. The date, the place, and most importantly the names… Your name.
Your name and… Jung Wooyoung?
Who the fuck is Jung Wooyoung?
You looked at the date again. March 23rd 2025.
You kept mumbling the date like a ritual. “March 23rd, March 23rd, March 23rd… Mar..ch 23… March… FUCK!” You screamed.
It was your best friend’s wedding that happened in Japan. Small bits of details came rushing in and tiny flashbacks start replaying in your mind. You remembered that you were so upset that night because you were the only one without a partner. Minjae promised that he’ll be there but changed his mind last minute. He said something came up and that he won’t be able to fly out anymore.
The reception happened by the beach, it wasn’t too private and the resort were you all got booked was also right next to another private resort. There really was nothing that could separate the whole beach just for your best friend’s wedding anyway. So, naturally, people from the neighboring resort could pass by.
You finally took a seat on your couch, pressing your fingers at the bridge of your nose, eyes closed. Think, think, think… Remember, remember, remember…
Flashes of dark hair passed through your mind. A man with a pretty smile and perfect set of teeth. His eyes were sharp like a siren. But somehow, you also remembered that they were assymetrical. One doe eye and one fox eye. A video played in your mind complimenting how pretty his eyes were.
“Shit!” You slapped your forehead.
His group of friends joined yours. You forgot how and why but you remembered how drunk you were, as well as half of his circle. Someone from his group brought out a paper that night. You’re too intoxicated to register what it was. But you remembered the tall guy, Mingi… Was that his name? You remembered one of his friends brought out a paper that he said he stole from his Japanese friend, who is a lawyer, and called it a Fake Marriage Certificate.
“Sign this if you’d marry the person next to you!” Mingi screamed, steps swaying every time his feet touched the sand. Then, he handed it to Wooyoung— the guy with the siren eyes. You were the person sitting next to him.
In a drunken state, you leaned in to him. “I dare you.” You said, then laughed. Your best friend’s husband laughed along, before the whole circle erupted.
“Hand me a pen, Mingi.”
And just like magic, Mingi pulled out a pen. “Woooo! My friend is getting married tonight!!”
You giggled. Wooyoung, who is obviously much sober than you are and his friends, seemed unfazed by Mingi’s shenanigans. Wooyoung handed the paper back to Mingi.
“Wow, that is your legitimate signature. I am impressed.” He squinted, trying his best to see Wooyoung’s signature under the moon light and camp fire.
“Sign this if you’d marry the person next to you!” Mingi yelled, once again. This time, handing you the paper.
You look at the person next to you— your best friend’s husband who is still in his wedding suit.
“You’re looking at the wrong way, darling.” Mingi teased.
Blinking, you looked at Wooyoung. “You know you’re handsome.” Your voice slurred. “Of course, I’d marry a handsome man. I do hope you have a lot of money, though.” You hiccupped.
The pen slipped through your fingers. “Oops.”
Wooyoung guided your hand to where the underline is. “I can’t spell my name, shit. Oh wait… There!”
“Congratulations! You two are now also married! Happy wedding day to our two couples!”
“Fuck, fuck, fuck!” You bit your lip, hands running up your hair. “What the fuck!”
You weren’t sure how long you’ve been searching on the internet how to get divorced. You’ve searched the whole thing how to get accidentally married and even though you tried to gaslight yourself that it’s impossible to happen in Korea, the truth was there at your table already.
Someone has filed and registered the “fake” marriage certificate in Japan and it probably got notified and recognized here. Someone has done the marriage paperwork and you need to know who it was.
Most importantly, you need to find Jung Wooyoung. Your registered husband on paper and you two need to get divorced immediately.
If your mom finds out about this, she’ll die and you’re not even exaggerating. She might actually collapse and get a heart attack in front of you if you tell her about this. If Minjae finds out, he’ll leave you— he’ll leave you and all of the person that knows about your engagement will be disappointed and betrayed.
If anyone finds out… you’re doomed. Done. Finished. This will be the end of you.
It didn’t take long for you to find all of Wooyoung’s social media. He wasn’t even private in any of it. You even find his work email. Easy peasy. Without double thinking, you grabbed your marriage certicate and run to your room.
With your macbook placed on your lap, your fingers started typing away all the words you needed to say to Wooyoung. You did your best to come off as polite and professional as possible. You didn’t want to scare the guy off and have him run away from you.
“Please, meet me at Aurora Cafe tomorrow at 9AM.” You typed as your closing message. You hit sent and sighed in relief. He seemed to be an easy-going guy and you hoped that he’ll understand your urgency to meet him and help solve your issue.
Three days passed. One cloudy, one rainy, and a sunny day had passed since you sent that message to Wooyoung. You copy-pasted that and send it to all of his other social media and even on his work email. Despite doing all the effort, all you got was—nothing.
Jung Wooyoung never replied to any of your messages. Now here you are pacing back and forth in your room. In a week, you’ll be taste testing in the restaurants Minjae’s parents booked for you. After that, you’ll be choosing which restaurant will serve at your wedding. Though they did tell you that one of those, Vivant, was Minjae’s preferred caterer.
The venue, organizers, suppliers and such were all documented in the past few days by Minji with a little help from your Mom as well. The last text she sent was something along the lines of finding a designer that will make your wedding gown. You replied a plain, “Ok.” before panicking again on how to track down your paper husband.
You scrolled and scrolled on his instagram feed, trying to find a clue on where he could be working. Is he working part-time? Full-time? Corporate? You have no fucking idea and it’s making you want to pull out all your hair.
Then you saw a coffee photo. A cappuccino with a flower design. Clicking on the screen, the tag Aurora Cafe popped up.
Hongjoong-hyung, your art still sucks. But it’s free so it’s okay.
hongjoong: don’t you dare come back here.
seonghwa: lmao
mingi: is that a dick or a rose?
wooyoung: but i work here!
It all clicked. It all made sense now. Before you knew it, you were grabbing your purse on a mission to go to Aurora Cafe and meet your husband.
You can already smell the aroma of roasted coffee beans from the outside. There weren’t that many customers yet, but there were still a decent amount of people. A soft mellow song drifted from the speakers as you pushed the tall glass door. The cafe glowed beneath the strings of fairy lights, understandably so as its the only source of light besides the glass door and front windows. Aurora cafe was tucked between a bookstore and an old flower shop. People could easily miss it if they don’t watch close enough.
There was a guy in the corner, half chatting to a customer and half mopping the floor. He was the first person who saw you walked in.
“Hello! Welcome to Aurora Cafe!” He greeted, then his eyes widened. “Wait, you’re—”
Your head snapped away from the guy holding a mop when you heard a door opened. It was like a natural hunch, as if your body and your mind already knew that it’s the person you’ve been hunting for. And there he is, holding a freshly cleaned pitcher as well as a bag of coffee beans.
Your feet moved forward to the counter as he did. He smiled at you, warmly, changing the atmosphere just for a moment before you remembered what you’re here for.
You slammed the marriage certificate on the marbled countertop. A guy then appeared beside Wooyoung— you didn’t even notice him tending the coffee cups earlier— watching you march towards his friend like you’re about to grind him like their coffee beans.
Wooyoung looked at the paper placed in front of him. Big, bold, capital letters staring back as he read.
CERTIFICATE OF MARRIAGE
His friend peered over his shoulders as well, gaping at what he has read. “Holy shit!” He exclaimed. “Sorry, not my business.” Then he went back to tending the coffee cups. At least, pretending too. You noticed how his ears were perked up, ready to hear the conversation you’re about to have with Wooyoung.
The guy who was once near the entrance were now mopping the floor suspiciously close to you. Your feet was tapping impatiently, arms now crossed and you wore the best annoyed look you can pull off. Wooyoung raised an eyebrow, acting so clueless about the certificate presented to him.
“We got married.” You said, plainly.
His friend choked, then the cups he’s fixing seemed to collapse and scatter. “Sorry. My hands are extra slippery today.”
“We need to divorce as soon as possible.” You added.
That’s when his mopping friend tumbled over the bucket of water. “Sorry! There was a spot here and I pressed too hard, I think. Don’t worry about me.”
Wooyoung looked back at the document then picked it up. He looked at you, then again at the paper. A smile broke out of his face. “You’re prettier in the sunlight. And sober.”
A cough broke out. At first, you thought it was fake but then his friend seemed to struggle to catch his breath.
“Seonghwa-hyung, are you alright?” Wooyoung asked. So, Seonghwa is the name of the mop guy.
“Good, good. Just choked in my own saliva, that’s all.”
“Hongjoong-hyung, can I clock out early today? I need to talk to my wife.” Wooyoung put an arm over the guy. “Please?”
Hongjoong rolled his eyes but swatted him away. “Go on, then. I expect you to overtime on Friday.”
With that, Wooyoung slipped off his apron, rounded the corner and stood right next to you. “Let’s talk somewhere else.” He was still smiling like an idiot, the complete opposite of your face, “Somewhere without my nosy friends.”
You almost lost your mind. Wooyoung took you to the flower shop, right beside the cafe. He’s still beaming, bubbly like a bottle of champagne. You already concluded that he’s not taking the situation seriously. That you both got accidentally married and that this is a big big issue. A huge problem for the both of you.
You were expecting him to panic but instead, Wooyoung looked amused. He’s like walking on air while you’re walking on a thin ice, ready to break at any moment.
“Jongho-ya. Can I borrow your table for an hour or two?” Wooyoung barged inside. The hanging bells rung, bringing noise to the tranquil place.
You almost punch him.
Jongho, who was busy tying up ribbons, looked up. “Okay… I thought you have work today?” He gawked when you came into the view. “Is that? You’re the girl from—”
“We’re going now.” Wooyoung’s hand slipped in yours as he drag you away.
The both of you were situated at the farthest corner of the shop. Jongho quickly went back to making bouquets. He seemed to be the only friend of his that doesn’t like prying. Maybe…but you don’t know all of his friends yet and you’re not planning on knowing them all.
What you need is to get divorced. And that’s your main and only goal out of this.
“So…” Wooyoung started, with a stupid grin on his face. “You’re my wife.”
Your arms crossed, jaw clenching. “Not for long. We both know that this was an accident. This wasn’t supposed to happen.”
“I don’t know about that. This is the best news I’ve heard in weeks.”
You pinched the bridge of your nose, letting out an exasperated sigh. “I have a boyfriend. I just got engaged a few days ago. I can’t be married.”
Wooyoung’s head tilted. Then his eyes dropped down to your hand. The diamond on your ring finger refracted, catching some of the sunlight filtered through the window. For a second, it looked like Wooyoung finally realized the gravity of the situation, the smile left before the corner of his lips quirked up again.
“Sounds like a ‘you’ problem.” He said.
You groaned, the chair screeching when it pushed back. This man is impossible and you want nothing but to throw a fist on his stupidly handsome looking face. Running a hard hand through your hair, you let out a deep sigh, again.
“I’m serious, I am engaged and my family and his family are already planning the wedding.” You pulled your chair back to its original position. “I’m engaged.” You repeated.
“You’re engaged?” He asked as if he didn't hear it three times in a row.
You closed your eyes and breathed. It’s okay, be nice. He’s just playing with you. “Yes.”
“Why do you look so stressed about it?” Wooyoung asked, leaning forward, arms prepped on the table.
You swore something inside you cracked. Then you immediately became defensive. “Because I got accidentally married to a stranger!” You shrieked.
Wooyoung hummed as he shrugged his shoulders. It was a reasonable answer, you know yourself that it was. However, the guy across from you didn’t look convinced at all.
The two of you sat in silence but with thick tension. You were counting seconds in your head and it has been fourty three seconds since his blank response.
“Fine. I’ll help you.”
You almost jolted out of your seat, then your shoulders finally relaxed.
“After I finish my shift.”
You tensed. “What? I thought you’re not working today because of this?” You asked.
“Nope, change of mind. I want to work again.” Wooyoung’s eye twinkled. His voice lacing with what you could say a ‘teasing’ sound.
“But this is more important!” You tried to reason. He was already getting up from his seat.
“To you.” He said. “See you next door.” Then he walked away.
“Ugh!” You almost threw the chair at him.
Hongjoong and Seonghwa were in the middle of cracking jokes with each other when you and Wooyoung walked back in. Wooyoung went behind the counter as if he didn’t leave for a good hour and like he was just starting his day at the cafe. You slumped on the nearest chair you could place yourself with a scowl on your face.
At least, you brought your phone with you. It’ll be a good distraction while you wait for him finish his shift.
Fifteen minutes in and you’re already too anxious too leave. People are starting to crowd as the sun starts to set far in the horizon. You’ve never met someone so annoying, so unserious, and so infuriating that all you could think of was how to wipe off the smug grin on his face every time he looked at you.
By the time the sun fully set and the lights outside were only of street lights, Seonghwa had moved you to a chair prepped behind the counter with a small folding table. He told you that any moment from now, their regulars would start piling in and they might need to pull more tables and chairs. So, in order to cater those people, he decided to make your own spot behind a working Wooyoung.
A woman customer came in, beaming bright at the barista in front of her— your paper husband.
Must be a regular. You thought.
You lifted your phone higher up to your face than usual. You saw the woman glanced back at you while she ordered. You saw her surprised look, probably shocked why the hell there is a woman behind the counter just scrolling through her phone and not helping.
“Thanks, Youngie.” She said, grabbing her coffee cup a little too close. Her fingers touched with his. “Is that your girlfriend?” She joked, pointing over Wooyoung’s shoulders.
Your phone dropped lower, about to speak and correct the woman.
“Wife, actually.” Wooyoung answered.
You were the one who choked this time.
The lady gasped. “Oh…”
Wooyoung grinned. “Pretty, isn’t she?”
The customer faked a laugh, “So pretty.” Then she settled to a vacant table.
You wished for the floor to swallow you right now. And Wooyoung? Wooyoung was having the time of his life.
You watched him work. Your phone was long dead and was placed back to your purse. With no distraction and source of entertainment, you just watched Wooyoung, Seonghwa, and Hongjoong run the cafe. But your attention always leaned more towards Wooyoung.
Unfortunately, you found out that he’s good with customers—regulars or not. He knew how to greet, what to say, and what would make them want to come back. Even the kids like him. You noticed that he has a stash of lollipops and candies just for them and he never missed a kid from taking home one or a couple.
All the elderly that dropped by knew his name and he was treated like he was their own grandson. Most importantly, Wooyoung remembered everyone’s orders. How? You don’t even know. You’re not one to memorize anything in your life.
But then again, maybe Wooyoung liked this job. No scratch that, he loves this. You can tell that he loves serving people and even though you want to paint him as someone who’s just difficult…he’s actually quite…charming.
Eventually, Wooyoung’s shift ended. He was taking off his apron while you’re already heading towards the door. You were observing the dark wooden ceiling as you wait for him say his goodbye to his boss-friends, Hongjoong and Seonghwa.
“See you tomorrow, Hyung! I promise, I’ll be cleaning up on my next shift!”
“Bye!” Hongjoong waved, the towel he’s holding swaying in the air. “Bye to you, too, wifey!”
Wooyoung chuckled. “Let’s go.”
He told you that he knew someone who works at a law office. Usually, it’s closed around this time but he had already given his friend a heads up. And fortunately, his friends are doing overtime.
“Mingi lives right next to it. He knows the lawyer, too. It’s his Dad’s best bud… or something.” Wooyoung explained.
Wherever he’s heading, you never once felt like you were in danger. Maybe it’s because of what you’ve witnessed earlier at the cafe, and at the same time, Wooyoung didn’t show you anything why he cannot be trusted. And so, you leaned back at the leather seat of his car— which is surprisingly comfortable and clean.
“Do you remember anything that night?” He coaxed, breaking the soundless car drive. His one hand on the steering wheel, while his other elbow rest.
“I don’t remember much. I remember you and that guy, Mingi.” Your lips pressed into a thin line. “He’s the one who handed us that fake marriage certificate.”
“Do you remember anything before that?” He quizzed, turning to you for a quick second, then going back to looking straight ahead.
“No.” You mumbled. “I don’t remember.”
Then a laugh escaped from his mouth. A genuine laugh like he’s rewatching that night in his head. Your brows furrowed, head turning to him.
Wooyoung licked his lips. “You stole our whiskey and drank straight from the bottle.” He chortled. “Then you took one of our glasses and brought it to your friends. The wife—I’m assuming ‘cause she’s wearing a wedding dress— apologized on your behalf then invited us to their camp fire.”
“That’s how you guys ended up with us?”
He nodded. “You cried because your friend got married.”
Rolling your eyes, you huffed. “Duh. She’s my best friend.”
“Then you cried again because you said you’re alone.” Wooyoung added. A playful smirk plastered on his face.
“How do you know that?”
“I was there.” He shrugged. “We were there.”
Your face burned. “God, please. What the hell did I do that night.”
“Oh and… you almost stole my jacket.”
You froze. You thought that you have done every thing embarrassing you could do, turns out you’ve done more. First, crying in front of the strangers you stole whiskey from. Then you went ahead and steal someone’s jacket, too.
“Oh my God, fuck alcohol.” You muttered, pressing your forehead at the console. “Did I return your jacket, at least?”
“Your friend did. I lend it to you when you started complaining about the cold. Then, when it’s time for me and my friends to leave, you keep screaming that I’m stealing your jacket. Really, I’m just trying to get it back. It was expensive.”
“Stop, I don’t want to hear it anymore.” You can feel the heat spreading throughout your body.
“To be fair, I was gonna leave it to you but your friend insisted on returning it.”
“My God…” You shook your head, trying your best not to remember anything from that night. It’s too embarrassing to get reminded of, especially when Wooyoung is right beside you.
Somewhere along the way, you finally had the courage to ask Wooyoung to play the radio or else you might fall asleep. He was humming along the music, sometimes would actually sing out loud if he knows the lyrics of the songs. Another thing you noticed is that Wooyoung has a nice voice. He could actually sing. Honestly speaking, he could be a singer if he wants to.
That would suit him. Pretty voice and pretty face. He’ll be famous in no time. And who knows, you might just buy a ticket front row if that happens.
When the car halted at a red light, Wooyoung sneak a glance at you. His mouth opened, but then decided against it. You picked up how much he was itching to talk.
“What?” You probed.
“Do you love him?” He asked.
“Of course.” You answered, immediately. Too immediately.
Wooyoung simply hummed. He still looked unconvinced yet he didn’t push further. The silence engulfed the both of you, only the melody of a song you’ve never heard easing the mood inside the car.
“My man!” Mingi was towering over Wooyoung when he gave him a hug. “I haven’t seen you since… Ten hours ago.”
You scratched your cheek as you click your tongue. Wooyoung has an interesting kind of friends.
“Me and Yunho are working ‘til 11PM, we have endless paper to copy and fax…and mail…and email. And—” Mingi finally noticed you, a few feet away from Wooyoung. “Hi, Miss. Is there anything I can help— Holy shit!” His jaw dropped. “You’re the crying lady at the beach!” You cringed. “You stole my whiskey!”
The pavement suddenly became interesting. Are these artificial stones or concrete? Cobblestones, maybe? Nah. It’s probably asphalt, isn’t it?
“Ow!” You heard a punch. “What was that for?” Mingi whined.
“That’s why we’re here,” Wooyoung seethed. “We need help.”
When the three of you got inside, another guy was there to greet you. Just like any other friend of Wooyoung, he was shocked—actually— horrified to see you in flesh, like he saw a ghost jumped out of a TV. You told them the basics, yours and Wooyoung’s marriage got filed by someone and it got recognized in Korea. Given that the marriage was fake and only a drunken accident, you need to get divorced right away. But Mingi’s boss won’t be back until Tuesday, which is exactly a week from now.
You paced around their office. “We need to find a new lawyer tomorrow. This can’t be delayed for next week! We need to start as soon as possible and tomorrow is the best time.”
Yunho and Mingi watched you, eyes squinting with curiosity.
“It’s gonna give you and Wooyoung more time to plan, prepare all the necessary documents and such.” Yunho said. “Plus, it’s better if it’s Mr. Kim. We promise none of your family or friends will find out— if that’s what you’re worried about.” He assured.
“No, no, no.” You stopped in your tracks. “I’m having a menu tasting next week! And possibly my gown fitting! I won’t have time.”
“Gown fitting?” Mingi looked at Yunho.
“Menu tasting?” Yunho glanced back.
Then their eyes went to Wooyoung, sitting casually on the couch, reading a magazine. “She’s getting married. For real.” He dropped whatever he’s reading back at the glass table.
“WHAT?” The two giants exclaimed. “You’re— You have a fiance?!”
Their loud voices rung in your ear and you winced. “Yes! That’s why Wooyoung and I need to get divorced ASAP.”
“Well, uh, umm…” Mingi scratched the back of his neck. Yunho, too, did the same.
“We’ll come back on Tuesday.” Wooyoung declared. “It’s almost 10, too. Your phone is dead. And your boyfriend is probably calling you non-stop.”
“We’re not coming back on Tuesday, I’m taking you tomorrow to a different lawyer.”
This time, it’s Wooyoung’s turn to roll his eyes. “We’ll see Mr. Kim on Tuesday. Come on.” You stormed off before Wooyoung could come close to you.“Ya!” He called. The slam of the door was what he got as a response.
Wooyoung glanced back at his friends, Yunho urging him to follow you outside.
“Call us, bro.” Mingi muttered, shooing his friend away.
Wooyoung found you standing beside his parked car, arms crossed and jaw clenched. He swore you could’ve trashed his car if you wanted to. He stood not too close yet not too far. He could almost see steam coming out of you.
“Bring your ID next time, wife.”
Your head snapped to where he was. “Don’t call me that.”
Wooyoung jutted out his lower lip and shrugged. “We’ll see them on Tuesday.”
“There is no Tuesday.”
“Pretty sure there is.” He insisted. “Look, this is your safest option, alright? Unless, you know a lawyer who’s not a family friend of your boyfriend. Or someone, you know for a fact that is not known by his Mom or Dad.”
“I can find one.”
“How confident are you that they don’t know your boyfriend’s family?” Your lips pursed. Wooyoung smiled. “Come on, wife. I’m taking you home.”
For a moment, you stood there, wondering why you suddenly felt like the divorce process is going to be much harder than you initially thought.
The week passed faster than you expected. Wooyoung was right about Minjae calling you non-stop when your phone died last week. Not only were you bombarded with tons of missed calls, his sisters and his mom also left so many messages as if you had ran away to another planet.
Monday - Check Minji and Minhee’s Wedding Gown Recommendations / Send MY Wedding Gown Recommendations + WORK
Tuesday - Meet Wooyoung and Mr. Kim + Meet with the Designer + WORK LEAVE
Wednesday - Menu Tasting (Minji and Minjae’s Mom options) + WORK LEAVE
Thursday - Vivant (booked by Minjae) + WORK LEAVE
Friday - Another Menu Tasting (request by Minhee and Minjae’s Dad) + WORK LEAVE
Saturday - FUCKING REST
Sunday - ???
You looked at your week’s schedule and even though it’s an early morning of Tuesday, your body felt like collapsing already.
“What’s that, darling?” Your mom peeked.
You quickly locked your phone. “Just my schedule for the week.” You faked a smile. “It’s all taste testing and stuff.” You slid your phone inside your pocket. “So, are you leaving now?”
“Yes! Your Dad’s waiting at the grocery store already.” Your mom huffed. “I specifically told him to give me three hours with you here. But look at your Dad already rushing! I’ve been here two hours only!” She waved her hands in the air but picked up her bag, anyway. “This is why I like Minjae, he doesn’t rush you into anything. He’s always respected your time and giving in to what you want!”
Huh.
“Anyway, I have to go. I’ll talk to you again tonight, okay?” Your Mom embraced you. “If ever you need me to go with you tomorrow, just give me a call.”
“Okay, Mom. I will.” She gave you a kiss on the temple and left, leaving you standing in the middle of your living room, sighing a breath of relief.
You waited for a few minutes before heading out as well. Wooyoung told you to go to Aurora Cafe first, then he’ll drive you both to Mr. Kim’s Law Office to finally start the divorce process. For now, you’re both talking on social media— Instagram, to be specific. None of you bothered on getting each other’s numbers yet. You like to think that it’ll be better this way, easy to hide and easy to delete in the future. After all, you and Minjae never exchange any of your social’s passwords. In Minjae’s words, it’s what teenagers do, not adults.
Plus, Minjae does not have social media presence anyway.
By the time you arrived at the Aurora Cafe, Wooyoung was already there. Not in his apron but in a business casual outfit. He sat at the far right corner, lightly tucked, like he knew the possibility of someone you know can walk in at any time. He waved you over and when you got near, you realized that he’s talking to someone over the phone.
He motioned for you to sit down and wait. “Yeah, yeah. I know. That’s already fixed as well, San. Check the folders I left you. I’m gonna be busy this week, okay?”
You took a seat, noticing that the table already has two desserts.
“Uh huh. Yes.” Wooyoung’s eyes trailed on you eyeing the blueberry cheesecake. He pushed the plate closer to you before going back to talking. “I did file a leave. It’s just five days, man. You’re acting like I’ll be out of your life.”
“Fuck off, dude!” You heard.
“I really have to go. My wife is right here already.”
“Wife? Aren’t you going—”
The click of the phone call ending snapped your trance. Your brain short circuited for a moment when you heard the word ‘wife’
Clearing your throat, you grabbed the fork and spoke, “Are you going to keep calling me wife to your friends?”
Wooyoung’s brow raised. “Making it last before it ends.” He pulled the strawberry short cake near him then grinned, “It’s like our group’s little inside joke at this point.”
Of course. Men and their humor.
Surprisingly, Wooyoung was more prepared than you are. He has his documents all organized in a folder and even brought an extra just in case you need one. News flash, you did need it. The lawyer meeting was scheduled in an hour, so while waiting, you sort out your documents as neatly as Wooyoung’s. At least tried to.
Marriage Certificate. Identification cards. Affidavits. Copies and copies of documents you didn’t know existed in the first place. You didn’t even know that you had those kind of things too. Requirements that you didn’t even know long existed in your stack of files at your own office.
“Welcome back!” Mingi smiled. You squirmed under his gaze, remembering how you exploded last week. “Hi, wifey.”
Your brow raised, wanting to fight him but chose to back off. “Hi.” You greeted.
Yunho guided you and Wooyoung to Mr. Kim’s table. You realized how exposed you are in such a tiny office. Mingi took a seat to what you think is his designated working area and so did Yunho. Your ears burned at the fact that they get to hear everything. Well, they are Mr. Kim’s… assistants? Laiasons? You’re not sure. But they do seem to be the only staff Mr. Kim had.
Wooyoung gave yours and his folder to Mr. Kim. Mr. Kim flipped though the papers simultaneously, checking them for a mere second before going to another. “I need another copy of this.” He mumbled under his breath before calling Yunho to photocopy whatever document he pulled out. Within seconds, Mingi was also up on his feet to do the same on another important paper.
“You’re nervous.” Wooyoung spoke. He sat across from you, barely an inch separating your knees together.
“I’m not.” You denied.
“You’ve been tapping for minutes.”
Your eyes dropped to your bouncing legs. Your fingers tapping over them. “I always do that when I get impatient.” Bringing your hands together, you realized that they’ve turned clammy too. Why is this so nerve wracking? I can’t wait for this to be over. Please.
“Okay.” Mr. Kim started. “Let’s start with something simple.” He said, closing the folders. Yunho and Mingi placed the photo copies on his table before returning back to their seat.
“How long have you two been together?”
Silence.
“…Depends on how you define together, Hyungnim.” Wooyoung answered.
Mr. Kim looked confused for a moment. He looked at you and you let out a deep breath.
“Then how did you two meet?”
You told him the drunken story, Wooyoung filling in the parts where it gets hazy. Your best friend’s wedding, the camp fire, the crying… then comes the stolen whiskey… every detail you can lay out.
You also found out that it was Yunho’s birthday. Wooyoung and his friends were in Japan to celebrate Yunho’s 26th. Wooyoung, who recently got broken up by his College sweetheart, was pulled out from his slump on March 23rd to decompress and unwind. And that’s how the two of your worlds collided.
Mr. Kim blinked. “You’re telling me you two never met before all of this happened?”
“…Yes.” You said, biting your lip.
Mr. Kim then gave you and Wooyoung an assignment. Write timelines of what happened that night and gather the additional documents he requested— one of them being certified copies of your marriage certificate (besides the one that was mailed to you) And most importantly, think about the legal grounds to keep the divorce process going forward.
“Legally speaking, it being a ‘mistake’ is not necessarily enough.” He returned the folders back to your hands. “Divorce and annulments are a lot more intricate than you expected.” Mr. Kim gave you a pointed look.
You were already fidgeting in your seat when you heard that. Wooyoung feeling your frustration, shifted, handing you the toy cactus on Mr. Kim’s table. It has a wacky face on it. You heard Yunho and Mingi stifled a laughter. You looked at Wooyoung, eyes narrowed, in which he just shrugged in return. You can tell that he’s hiding a smile, too.
“So, tell me about your spouse.” Mr. Kim broke the silence.
You both froze. You know nothing about Wooyoung and Wooyoung knows nothing about you. You don’t even know his birthday! You learned Yunho’s birthday before your very own husband! Wooyoung doesn’t know your favorite food. He doesn’t know you enough to learn that part of you yet.
Neither knows each other’s families. You know his friends, that’s it. And they all seem a handful. You’re not sure what he does besides working at the cafe. You don’t know his hobbies or his dreams. Nothing. And you’re sure as hell that Wooyoung thinks the same about you.
“Interesting. Married for one year and three months, yeah?” Mr. Kim sighed. “I’ve handled couples divorcing after twenty years, couples after two months. Never a couple who got married drunk in a different country.”
“We’re not a couple, that’s why.” You muttered.
Before the meeting ended, Mr. Kim had asked a few more questions. They were basic and ordinary. Something every lawyer would naturally ask to understand the clients. You wanted to sink further down Wooyoung’s car seat as you remember that part. You wanted his car to eat you alive and never spit you out.
“Current address?”
“Separate.”
“Did you two ever lived together?”
“Never.”
“Any shared finances?”
“Non-existent.”
“Any children?”
“Nope.” —You remember choking on water that Mingi gave you.
“So, this is accidental marriage. Wife wants a divorce and so does the Husband, am I right?” You nodded. “And since it being a mistake might not be enough, what are the other reasons for this to be done ASAP?”
“I’m getting married.” You answered.
“Ugh!” You pulled your hair. “Why do God give me these battles I never asked for in the first place?” Groaning, you pressed your head at the front console. “I’m not your strongest soldier, Lord.”
Wooyoung got inside the car without witnessing your mini crashout. He had left your documents to Mingi to hide. All you have with you is the new list Mr. Kim gave you. And it’s as if fate really wanted to give you a hard time, Mr. Kim won’t be available again until next Tuesday. Which means another week will pass before you and Wooyoung move to step two.
“Are you heading home or should I drop you off back at the cafe?” Wooyoung asked, starting the ignition.
“I’m meeting with my designer.” You lifted your head up, back pressing to your seat. “Their designer.” You corrected yourself. “Can you drop me off at this place? I can give you gas money.”
Wooyoung scoffed. “Gas money, my ass. I’m heading the same way.” You watched him skillfully pull out from the parking area. He pressed a button and the car got filled with a melody of the top charting songs of the week.
You breathed a sigh of relief when your phone hit your bed. The meeting with the designer went… okay. By the time you get there, the dresses were actually already picked out for you. You had expected it to be first meeting— a brainstorming session of what you want your dress to look like, like the type of cloth you wanted, the embelishments, the veil, etc.
You expected to be able to pull out your phone and show her your dress inspirations but none of those happened.
None of those happened because Minjae’s choice, his sisters’ choice, his mother’s choice were already lined up before you. You just needed to choose what you think compliments you the most so they can fit it in your size.
It’s 9:30 in the evening already, any minute from now, Minjae will be calling you. Sitting down in front of your desk, you hugged a pillow and turned on your Macbook. Like clockwork, you received Minjae’s call at exactly 9:35.
“How did the meeting with your designer go, love?”
“Good. I didn’t know you guys already picked out a dress for me.”
“Oh, right. Sorry. Minji has this motif in her mind so we decided to pick out the best dresses that would fit the motif. I forgot to tell you in advance.” Minjae explained.
“Oh…” Your lips pursed. “I hope you tell me about other things regarding the wedding next time.” You said. “So that I don't get surprised, that’s all.”
“But I like surprising you!” Minjae teased.
You frowned. Unamused.
“Fine. I’ll tell you all about it next time.” He said. “Well, that’s all I need to catch you up on for now. I need to go. My professor just send out a new project. I love you!” The other side of the Facetime call ended, leaving you staring at a blank screen.
Wednesday and Thursday weren’t as impressive as you thought it would be and you’re already expecting the following schedules will be the same. You pretty much went to the restaurants Minjae’s family booked for a taste test. You thought it would be your chance to be involved in the wedding planning, but just like the wedding dress, the menu are already chosen as well.
You were there to taste what you think suits your palate the most. But even that seems to have a final decision already as Minjae reminded you how much he loves Vivant’s. They were the most expensive caterer and also offered the most ridiculous wedding food. Crackers and caviar as snack? Who the fuck—
You rubbed the side of your temples. You tried to think of this as the bright side of things. At least, you’re not out there stressing about the wedding while you sort out your divorce with Wooyoung. You like to think that it’s one less stress from everything that is happening with your life.
Does that make you feel a little better inside? Honestly speaking, not really.
You pushed the door open, the familiar ring of bells echoing in your ears. “Hello?” No one was at the counter to greet you.
Jongho, wearing overalls, popped out from the back. He was also wearing gardening gloves, covered in dirt and soil. “Hello… Wife?”
You almost rolled your eyes. “Yeah… The crying lady at the beach, Wooyoung’s wife, wifey... Whatever nickname your friend group have given me. Yes, it’s me.” You mumbled a sarcastic ‘Woohoo!’ under your breath, too.
Jongho snickered. “Well, Excuse me for being dirty. I’m moving some roses to a pot.” He shrugged some of the dirt off his clothes, but all it did was make it worse. You pretended not to see what just happened when Jongho peeked at you. “So, what can I help you with?”
“Uhm…” You played with your foot for a moment, hands hiding behind your back. “Can I… Borrow your table for an hour or two?” You asked.
Jongho chuckled hearing the same question he got from Wooyoung more than a week ago. “Sure, wifey. You can borrow it as long as I’m here.”
Grinning, you bowed your head and thanked him.
He was about to return to potting some plants when Jongho stopped in his tracks. You were in the middle of placing your notebook and macbook on the table. “Does Wooyoung-hyung know that you’re here?”
You looked over your shoulder and shook your head. “We’re meeting again next Tuesday. Plus, he doesn’t really need to know everything.”
Jongho stayed put for a minute then let it go. He went behind a door and disappeared.
You did your business as well. You checked your emails just in case your company has any update for you or sent you something you can help with even though you’re on a work leave. You did specifically stated that you will still be available at any time if ever the company reach out. Filing that work leave was against your will anyway.
After an hour, you had updated everything you needed. You had contacted Vivant to send you variations of their wedding menu as well as asked the designer for your wedding dress update.
We’re meeting with a wedding coordinator next week.
Minji’s message was the first thing you saw when you minimized all of your browser tabs.
Did you see the recommendations I sent you?
You replied.
Yeah, I did. Mom also mentioned this place where—-
You snapped your laptop shut. Are you getting married or they are?
“Jongho-yaaaa.”
“Choi Jongho!”
The bells rang, followed by a bunch of footsteps. Followed by familiar voices you knew well at this point.
“Choi Jongho, our maknae!”
Hongjoong, Seonghwa, Mingi, Yunho, Wooyoung… and two faces you don’t recognize walked in.
Wooyoung was the first one that noticed you in the corner, his head tilting. Yunho noticed you next, eyes widening at your sight. Soon enough, they all saw your figure, seated on Jongho’s special table. Hongjoong and Seonghwa smiled, sneaking glances at each other. Mingi, on the other hand, was the first person who took the seat across from you.
The unfamiliar two were still clueless before Yunho whispered something in their ears. Their jaws almost dropped on the floor, shrieking at the news. You can tell that Yunho had told them that you’re the infamous ‘wife’ of Jung Wooyoung.
“Yah! Choi Jongho! It’s Friday!” Mingi shouted, his eyes diverting to the door that was left ajar. “We were supposed to celebrate Yeosang’s birthday on Monday, remember?”
“We closed the cafe early for this celebration, Jongho! Come out!” Seonghwa was already moving towards the room as he speak.
“It’s his garden room. It’s like—” Mingi’s brows knitted. “It’s… Uh, what do you call that?” You gave him a blank stare.
“It’s a mini greenhouse.” Wooyoung interrupted. “Fits two persons and that’s it. The only people allowed inside are Seonghwa-hyung and Yeosangie.”
“Yunho used to have a greenhouse pass.” Mingi whispered. “Then he stepped on a flower bed. He got kicked out immediately.”
You chuckled at the information. You can definitely picture a curious Yunho inside, probably amazed by Jongho’s plants, then accidentally stepping on a flower bed. You can also picture Jongho’s dissapointed face before kicking out the giant one. You almost laughed at the scenario in your head.
Wooyoung looked over at your smiling face. Your light aura reflecting back at him.
“What made you come here, wifey?” Hongjoong motioned for you to scoot to the other side so he could sit.
You huffed. “It’s been a long day for me. Gown fitting and all. I remembered how peaceful this place was when Wooyoung took me here." You grabbed your laptop towards you when Hongjoong took his seat. “And how silent Jongho was.”
“Wow.” Hongjoong expressed. “Our cafe is right next door where your husband works and you chose to be here?” He put a hand over his heart.
“Your cafe gets chaotic around this time. And Wooyoung’s female regulars might shoot lasers at me if Seonghwa makes me sit behind the counter again.” You said the second line in a joking manner. But given the way all their eyes darted at you, it’s obvious that the joke went over their heads.
Clearing your throat, you forcibly laughed. “There's a joke in what I said, by the way.”
“So…” Yunho trailed. “Where are you going after this? ‘Cause we’re stealing Jongho.” Yunho leaned closer to the table.
“Oh, I need to go to my parent's house. Something along the lines of wedding destinations and venues and… stuff.” Your lips pressed into a thin line.
“That’s too bad. We really thought you could join us.” The guy you haven’t met before pouted. Not that you stared too much and observed too much, but he definitely was the bulkiest of the group. Impressive shoulders and arms… slim waist. Okay, you have to stop.
Blinking, your reply slipped out of your mouth. “Well, I would've loved too. If only I was single as hell and not stressing about what seems to be the wedding of the century.” You didn’t mean for it to sound too bitter, yet it still left an unpleasant taste in your mouth.
The guys looked at each other.
“I’m San, by the way.” His teeth flashed, pushing out his hand.
“Nice to meet you, San.” You shook his hand. Then you turn your attention to the other guy you haven’t had the chance to introduce yourself to. “And you are?”
“Yeosang.” Deep voice. “Nice to meet you, too, wifey.”
“I’m really upset that we’re the last ones to meet you. Yeosang here knew Wooyoung the longest and well, not to brag, but I am Wooyoung’s best friend.” San sulked.
Before you knew it, someone said that they’re all best friends— in which, one person disagreed. Voices over voices erupted in front of you, bantering and no one wanting to hear what the other tried to say. Protests of Mingi being biased to Yunho were yelled out. Someone pointed out Hongjoong and Seonghwa having a soft spot for each other, Wooyoung getting matching tattoos with San, and more.
“My friends get chaotic at the smallest things.” Wooyoung found a spot behind your chair, removing himself from his group’s commotion. “Sorry if it gets overwhelming sometimes.” He apologized.
You gave him a smile. “I actually like watching the chaos like this. My life has always been planned and controlled. Curated. Too perfect, if you will.”
Wooyoung stared longer than usual. Like you opened up a page on him and he's reading every single word. “I think people tend to stress too much trying to get everything right.”
You stared back at him. The chaos in front of you disappearing for a moment.
“The best memories I’ve had usually started because someone messed up.” Wooyoung added.
The group’s fight simmered down, you and Wooyoung stayed oblivious at the fact.
“Ya! Are you spilling secrets about me?” Mingi’s attention turned towards Wooyoung.
Wooyoung scoffed. “What makes you think you're important to our conversation?”
Mingi shoved Wooyoung. You didn’t even realize that he had stood up earlier. “I’ll tell you my favorite quote of mine.” Mingi put an arm over Wooyoung’s shoulders. “Perfect things are lovely to look at but they're usually not the most fun to live for… Live in. Whatever.” He waved his hand in dismissal.
“What he's trying to say is, it’s okay to be imperfect. People are happier when they're not trying hard to be perfect, you know?” Hongjoong stated.
You also almost forgot that he was sitting next to you, too.
being able to understand everything in “wanna play” was such a trip even seeing mada mentioned LOL I’m an NRG fan s0m is my fav and the main reason I have supported NRG the last 4 years??? but besides all that I loved your writing!! It was really good and I hope you write more in the future when you can <3
OMG! I’m also rooting for nrg right now 🥹 i really want them to make it to vct paris! i love s0m too! i barely meet kpop fans who are also into esports or at least knows a lot of valorant like i do LOL! you’re a gem pls adopt me 😭 i was a huge cloud9 blue fan (hence the reference in wanna play about c9) but i only mainly stan the og lineup (tenz and friends 💔) after that lineup got separated, i supported cloud9 til vanity…when he left, that’s when i started looking into other teams to support!
hahaha, and yes, adam! i’m really proud how far he has come now! i met and saw him through ex-c9 vice back in 2021, even got to tune in some of his streams then and he was just trying out in andbox. now here he is, acing 3 times in primetime! i can’t wait to get out of this damn hospi and finish my story really! i have so manyyyyy things i wanted to includeeee!
About: Yunho is a big fan of your gaming streams — especially Valorant. He had been watching your stream for over a year but still hasn’t had the guts to ask if he could play with you. With his members finding out who you are, ATINYs raiding your stream, and your pro player friend seemingly making moves on you, he decided that it’s time to make himself known as well.
[Date Posted: August 12 2025. Not yet proofread. SUPPOSED TO BE A ONE PART STORY ONLY LMAOO]
Note: For those who don’t know anything about Valorant, I tried my best to make a guide here! Hope you enjoy reading!
My inbox are open, we can be friends :)
i decided to include some of my own clips in valorant (this was back in 2022/2023 lol) just so you could visualize and understand what i’m trying to describe on some parts of the story where it gets really technical in valorant! (especially for those who don’t play the game, and have no idea how the game works ^^)
also, just ignore the party (voice comms on the left side - highlighted green) on the clips. i was playing with my friends on the clips. however, in this fic, reader is a solo queue!
--- ---- ----- ✨ ----- ------
That pandemic surely hits your life like no other problem ever. You were just waiting for your graduation rites until everything went on lockdown and that fucking virus took over the world. All that plans of “I just need to graduate then I’ll get a decent high paying job” gone.
One of your dreams was to walk up on that stage and get your diploma but because of that stupid virus, your graduation rites ended up being held online. Were you disappointed? YES. Did you want to throw your laptop away while maintaining a fake smile? Absolutely, yes. It was tough for months because then, not only was everything on lockdown, it was also so difficult for you to get a job.
Surprisingly, your parents saw your struggles through your video calls. They can’t take hearing how it was hard for a fresh graduate to take a job with no prior work experience in your field (besides that one on-the-job training you did) over and over again. All they can do was assure you that one of those days, a company might get in touch.
You’ve always loved playing video games even with your 3-year old windows laptop that was only made for productivity. Those thirty to forty frames per game you get didn’t stop you from playing fps games, especially the new game that was booming during the pandemic- Valorant.
You were so into Valorant that you actually started rooting for an e-sports team. One of them being Cloud9. They weren’t the best team in NA but you felt the connection with the team because of how chill and cool the guys are. They weren’t all that “I am a pro player” vibe when it comes to playing and they genuinely looked like they were just having fun. The organization made it easier for you to love them when they made the Cloud9 Korea team, too.
Out of the blue, before the 2020 ends, you asked your Dad if he can gift you a PC with a decent build so maybe you can try streaming. He wasn’t fond of the idea but when he picked up the “It’s when I play a game and get paid” that sold him. That wasn’t entirely true but you were determined to make a living out of it.
Fast forward now in 2025, you have been streaming Valorant for four years and have improved immensely in game. You’ve been earning a decent amount through Twitch subscriptions and fan donations. Even though Valorant is your main game, you have grown to a bigger streamer that now streams other games too. You’ve been invited to a few Twitch Cons and have promoted different brands and games during your streams. Surprisingly enough, you also made not only streamer friends but also pro players from the game you love.
”What K-Pop groups do you like?” A subscriber asked in your chat.
”I’ve been listening to a lot of ATEEZ lately, not gonna lie.” You answered. The upper panel of your stream flashing “Just Chatting”
You just started your stream for today and as per tradition, you allot a time where you can chat with your community to just chill and chat before playing a game and stress altogether. This is where you mostly joke around with your subscribers and talk to your newest followers. And of course, fight with your moderators that have been with you since 2021.
“My bias? Um, I guess it has to be Mingi, right? Yeah, Mingi.”
ATEEZ’s DORM
Everyone got invited over Hongjoong’s, Wooyoung’s, and Jongho’s. When the members asked why, they were answered with no plans. Initially, Yunho hesitated and said that he wanted to stay at home to relax, but when the members teased him that he’ll just watch his favorite Valorant streamer, he protested yet decided to go with Yeosang anyway.
”Actually, we’re here to also see your favorite streamer play.” Hongjoong spilled the tea while giving each member their canned drink. “Sorry, bro. Yeosang ratted you out.”
Yunho raised an eyebrow. “What?” he said in “I don’t know what you’re talking about” tone.
”Oh come on! We’ve been asking you who she is and you never tell us!” Wooyoung complained.
”How do you know it’s a ‘she’?” Yunho questioned.
”I may or may not have looked inside of your room once while you’re watching her on your pc.” Yeosang admitted, quite sheepishly if you ask.
Yunho’s eyes rolled. Of course Yeosang did. They’ve all been curious why he barely leaves his room now. Even when the other guys are over their dorm, he always finds an excuse to do something inside his room. What does Yunho do? Catch a glimpse of your stream and make sure to send cheering bits so he doesn’t fall off of your top cheering dashboard.
Just a few seconds later, your stream displays on their 65-inch flat screen TV.
”Whoa,” Mingi couldn’t help but get mesmerized by you. Your stream panels scream girly. It’s pink, purple, and white, and is decorated with your favorite flower, cherry blossoms.
“Yah, Mingi! She’s your best friend’s crush, close your mouth.” Hongjoong laughed. Mingi pressed his lips together as his eyes narrowed to Yunho.
”Sorry, bro. But yeah, totally your type.”
“Mingi, right? Yeah. Isn’t he the one that went ‘Slow it down make it bouncy’ before rapping?”
All of the boys snapped their heads back to the TV screen. San lets out a faint “oof” before giggling with Wooyoung.
“Spicy.” Seonghwa talked, laughing with WooSan who sat beside him.
“Is he my bias? Yeah, I think so.”
“Bruh.” Wooyoung wanted to tease, but seeing how sour Yunho’s face had become, he decided to shut his mouth instead.
“I thought Yunho would be your bias.” You read in chat.
Squinting your eyes, you tried to remember who amongst them was Yunho. Your eyes lit up when you remembered. The tall and handsome one that actually caught your attention when you saw them live on Coachella.
“Oh.” Your eyes widened. There was a moment of silence before you continued speaking, “Honestly. He’s too handsome for me. I feel like I don’t have the right to be his stan.” Then you sipped on your coffee, your heart pounding beats on your chest. You didn’t want to be one of those fans who wants to have their Y/N moment, but that night at Coachella, you swore to yourself after the live went off, Yunho’s eyes were set on you. He looked at you like he knows you, like you were someone familiar in his life that he hasn’t seen in a long time.
The sound of your alert subscriber snapped your thoughts.
youknowval cheered x500 bits
youknowval resubscribed via prime
youknowval has been subscribed for 23 months
”Thanks for the sub, youknow. And also the 500 bits.”
”Oh wait, that’s your third 500 bits, sorry I didn’t notice.”
“Ooooh, someone wants some attention.” Wooyoung hummed. Yunho childishly stuck his tongue out. Another stream alert popped on the screen from Yunho as he cheered another thousand bits.
STREAMING Room
“Thanks, youknow. Oh my god, how many bits have you cheered already?” Your hand absentmindedly hover OBS Studio to click on youknow’s account. “We haven’t even started and you’ve cheered 3000 already? Calm down.” You laughed.
”Are you going to play a horror game today?” The chat asked. Most of them were requesting you to play a new popular horror game. ”Sorry, no horror game for today. I need to get my placement rank on Valorant.” You answered, honestly.
With the recent VCT Season ending, new updates are up and new rumors of a new map, perhaps a new agent, have been circulating non stop. You started playing when it was only in Season 2 Act I. It is now Season 9, and with the latest update, a new act— Act IV.
“Chat, is the new battlepass good? I want to know whether I need to finish this act’s battlepass.” You talked.
”There’s a cat in the design??” You exclaimed. “For which gun??” You were getting giddy and excited. You love cats as much as you love dogs. And cats on a gun while playing a shooter game? You’re sold. It was time to give a multi dollar company your money. AGAIN.
“Phantom? Good, love that for me.” That was a sarcastic remark. You were and always have been a Vandal user. Not even a cute cat design can make you switch between your one tap rifle against an amazing spray rifle that hits 149/150 headshot.
”Who are you queuing with today?”
“Uhm, I might solo queue but if I can get my pro player friend to play on 200 ping here in Korea then we can duo.” His name is Adam. You guys met back in 2022 when you went to your first ever Valorant Off/Season Event. You met him backstage along with his teammates and the rest was history. For your whole stay in the US, you got to play with him and his friends and have established a solid friendship with him throughout the years.
uulover: poor adam T.T
ynfan4ever: adam has to use vpn again then gets one tapped before peeking lol
madaa: not queuing to korea rn
madaa: just got my placement rank here and did well
madaa: i don’t want to stress over 1000000 ping and not kill anyone
uulover: lololol queue up bro, we miss u playing together
ynfan4ever: do the Clove trend!
“Ya! Adam! Why are you in my chat bro? You should be sleeping right now!”
madaa cheered x1000 bits
madaa resubscribed at Tier 3 Subscription
madaa has been subscribed for 31 months
madaa gifted 10 viewers Tier 1 subscription!
“Bro, get off my stream!” You couldn’t help but smile though. “And why are you gifting? Eff off. Mods ban Adam right now.” You added, jokingly.
mod_alys: adam can also ban us since he’s subbed at tier 3 /cry/
madaa: i won’t ban you alys ;)
mod_chris: time to retire and give all the benefits to adam
mod_chris: sorry boss, i am one of the lucky viewers that got the gift
mod_yana: why the fuck did i just get gifted by adam POG
mod_yana: i love you forever madaa mwa <3
“Oh god. I forgot that all of you are Adam’s simps! I’m gonna ban all of you myself.”
ATEEZ’s DORM
“Another spicy moment…” Seonghwa commented. Yunho pressed his lips together, trying to hide his scowl. This is why he doesn’t want to watch her stream with his friends.
”At least, you got the homecourt advantage bro.” San titled his head, grinning at his friend. “You don’t have to use VPN just to play with her if you have the guts to ask her.” A throw pillow flew in the air. San was able to catch it before it hit his face. The whole living room now loud and filled with laughter.
Just then, your stream dimmed with the Valorant loading page showing on the screen. Your face cam has become smaller and was placed on the top left corner.
”Every streamer I’ve seen had their face cam on the right.” Wooyoung cocked his head, curious as to why yours is on the other side.
“It’s on the left to cover the map. There’s a bunch of stream snipers nowadays.” Yunho explained. “If she doesn’t cover her map, her enemies might stream snipe her and know where her teammates' locations are.”
”Oh…”
”Plus, she doesn’t have any stream delay so we’re watching her in real time.”
”Aww, you know a lot about her already.” Seonghwa fluttered his eyelashes at Yunho, teasing him.
“Stop guys. There might be another pillow that will be thrown on your way.” Mingi chuckled.
“Sorry, my bad.” Seonghwa dropped his shoulders. “Awww, our Yunho-ya is so cuteeee!”
And Mingi was right. Another pillow was thrown at WooSanHwa’s direction, earning another round of laughter.
Yeosang, who was just happily watching the chaos, decided to grab his phone, take a snap and post it on his instagram story. Your face was barely in the photo but your stream layout that shows your socials were captured.
”Watching Valorant with team <3 @VALORANT” He captioned.
STREAMING Room
“God, I hope my store has good skins. I really really want the same gun as Adam!” You mumbled.It was the Evori Dreamwings. Initially, you said you didn’t want it and that you didn’t need it. You had convinced yourself for a while that you already had a decent skin for your favorite pistol— that it was just a pink cosmetic. But after seeing your friend bonk you with a melee that is shaped as a ribbon with a butterfly at the center… that’s when the regret sinks in.
Adam’s pink ghost skin? Better than yours.
By the time you were ready to spend money, you forgot that it had already expired on the market. Evori Dreamwings gone. And you have to wait the long game for it to pop up on your store that changes every single day. Unfortunately, it hasn’t shown itself since its release.
“I’m tired of my mystbloom. I want a new one. Oh, and is Adam still here?”
mod_alys: prolly not.
madaa: still here. hope you don’t get it
mod_yana: adam i luv u
“Oh, fuck you, Adam. The last time you did was curse my night market and all I got was shitty skins with the lowest possible discount!”
madaa: lmaooo. sending prayers to your next night market!
madaa: i hope it’s worse!
“You know what, go ahead and chat. I will mute you for 24 hours.”
madaa: POG
You slapped a hand on your forehead. Of course, he’s not scared. This guy knows you won’t do it anyway.
atinylurker: do you know that yunho loves to play valorant?
“Wait, what?” You asked. “Yunho plays valorant??”
Your chat was moving faster than usual. Within seconds, you almost can’t read comments anymore. Your brows furrowed with the sudden influx of comments and viewers on your stream. “What the fuck is going on?”
madaa: holy shit, why did your viewers jump from 1.5k to 8k??
madaa: almost 10k?
madaa: hurry up, promote me
“Shut up, Adam! Oh my god, am i getting bot raid? Wait, where’s that chat about Yunho?””
woosanniee: ateez is watching your stream
atinylurker: all the boys!
yeosangswifee: yeosang put you in his ig story!
hotteoksie: wow you are so pretty!
mod_alys: holy what is happening!
madaa: i’m opening up, let’s q babyyyy
mod_chris: the fuck, i just banned like 30 accounts saying no good shit!
mod_yana: the hell are these banned accounts even saying bruh
mod_yana: if you guys are just gonna comment hate, get out of the stream!
“Wait! What do you mean ATEEZ is watching? Holy shit!” You gasped. “What?!? How do they even know my stream, what the hell. I’m getting raided by ATINYs, you guys.”
youknowval gifted 100 viewers Tier 1 Subscription
youknowval cheered x5000 bits
youknowval gifted uyongie Tier 1 Subscription
uyongie cheered x5000 bits
uyongie gifted 10 viewers Tier 2 Subscription
iamthefinale cheered x10000 bits
iamthefinale subscribed via prime
iamthefinale subscribed for the first time!
mod_chris: holy shit yn, this is your peak whuttttttt
“What the fuck. Thank you guys so much. Oh my goodness. My stream is lagging, too. Holy.” You sputtered. “I’m scared to play now, what if I suck! I haven’t warmed up to the game yet!”
madaa: it’s okay. u’ve always been good mechanically
youknowval: good luck ^^
madaa: just aim, no brain
“Adam, get out of my stream and sleep already! Guys, he’s such a number one hater!” You faked demand then pouted. “And thanks youknow, you’re my number one supporter!”
madaa: lmaoo
youknowval: we should play someday :)
You loaded up The Range to start warming up your movement and aim. With 10.2k viewers right now, you need to remind yourself not to suck. And ATEEZ watching you? The pressure is at its highest.
If there is something consistent about you, it’s being inconsistent in the game. There were days where you feel like your enemy team is walking straight to your crosshair, ending the game being the Match MVP or your aim is nowhere to be found and drop a KDA of 5 kills, 15 deaths, and 0 assist.
“Okay, just 5 minutes of this then I’ll do a deathmatch.”
ATEEZ’s DORM
“Hyung, I think she’s better than you.” Jongho’s eyes were glued to the screen. The way you were moving in game was screaming good. Like, really good. Yunho has mentioned earlier that your peak rank is Ascendant 3, but the more Jongho watches, the more he believes that you deserve a higher rank than that. Your movements can be up there with his Hyung. Actually, scratch that, you move like a pro.
Yeah, definitely better than Yunho-hyung, Jongho thought.
”Jongho was so amazed by Y/N that he cheered ten thousand bits.” Hongjoong’s lips parted.
”She’s good.” Jongho shrugged his shoulders. It was his way of saying she deserves it.
Minutes later, you were dominating in deathmatch. Almost all members now are watching in surprise and amazement. Every flick of your mouse aims at the enemy’s head. One kill. Two kills. Three kills. Four. Five.
“What the–“ Mingi has a hand over his mouth now. “Ya, Yunho. She really is better than you!”
”How come she has lower rank than you though?” San asked.
”She doesn’t grind her rank as much. Sometimes she plays unrated with her mods and friends. Then they just troll since that’s just unranked.”
”Wow. I guess that’s the perks of playing with the pros too, right? You get good.” San added. Yunho nodded in response. You get to play with pro players who are top 0.01% players in their regions. And of course, Adam… one of the best duelist in NA right now who’s cementing his name in the pro player scene.
Yunho had watched your stream game with him where Adam would guide you and tell you how to play the game properly; what’s the best position, how to hold an angle, correct crosshair placement, all of the mechanics Yunho had learned by himself— and you, you absorb every word. And that’s why you dominate the game mechanically. If you can’t beat the enemies with your brain, you beat them with your aim.
Your rank doesn't matter to him, really. For the most part, you only grind your placement rank every Act Change because Riot always place the players lower than their peak rank. And you being you, once you reach your previous rank, you stop playing Competitive. That’s when you start playing with your mods or organize games with your fans. Hence why your community loves you. That’s what makes you, you.
“Okay, chat. I’m ready.” You spoke, clicking the ‘Competitive’ and immediately queuing. “Solo? No Adam?” You read a comment. “No. Adam is tired you guys. He got tired getting that 3 aces in one game against MIBR. Let him rest.” You joked.
madaa: thanks for the shoutout POG
“That’ll be the last for today. And didn’t I tell you to sleep?”
madaa: nah, gotta watch a few games of you first
madaa: and be a hater :P
youknowval: madaa tell her to play duelist!
youknowval: kidding. i know you’ll top either way
“Match Found!”
You yelped at the game voice. Your twitch chats now filled with your custom laugh emote. “Sorry, oh my god, I was reading you guys. The hell this game and this timing!” You laughed at yourself.
Bind. Oh how you hate this map so much. It was recently brought back in the map pool but you loathe this map because of how defense-sided it is and those freaking teleporters annoy the hell out of you. Riot said the teleporters are made for attackers' advantage but honestly speaking, it’s just too risky to use. And you don’t even want to mention how it lacks mid-lane. The map is basically just bomb site A and bomb site B.
madaa: i’ll send you 100 gifts if you play Raze
youknow: lol. this is the part where good luck is really needed
“I know right, youknow? Fuck this map. And Raze? Yeah dream on, Adam. I can’t use Raze like you do! You aced three times using this agent yesterday! And now you wanna see me satchel to nowhere?” And embarrass myself in front of nine thousand ATINYs? Heck no. You refused.
Yunho watched you banter a couple of times with your chat. They were insisting for you to play duelist. He grinned to himself knowing that’ll never happen. You hate this map and you also hate playing duelist. You main Sentinels and Controllers, which are the support agents. And if you really have to play a different role, you play Initiator, yet the only agent you play for that is Skye.
The last thing you’ll ever touch in this game is the Duelists. For you, your gameplay just doesn’t suit the role. You're more laid back, guard the sites, and control the map. Not those who need to entry or take space and first duels.
”Look, Adam. Watch me Brim.” And Yunho was right. Of course, you’ll choose to play a smokes agent.
“She doesn’t play duelist, Hyung?” Jongho raised a brow. He thought with your good aim and movement, you’ll be a duelist main.
”No, she plays smokes and senti. Clove, Killjoy, maybe Sage, Viper… those agents.”
”Oh… but her aim fits a duelist role though.” Jongho pouted. He wanted to watch you use at least Reyna or maybe Raze, just like what your friend ‘madaa’ said.
Your teammate lineup: Brimstone (You-Controller), Jett (Duelist), Fade (Initiator), Viper (Controller), Reyna (Duelist)
Enemy lineup: KAY/O (Initiator), Yoru (Duelist), Killjoy (Sentinel), Reyna (Duelist), Omen (Controller)
“Oh thank God!” You sighed in relief. ATEEZ chuckled even though half of them don’t even know why you’re stressing. Yunho, on the other hand, knows. It’s because your team is starting on Defense— which basically means, more chances of winning. Especially if your team owned the first half.
madaa: the lineup was almost us vs mibr XD
madaa: why do you all hate the most efficient duelist in this map?
madaa: also, what a change. your skins are gold instead of pink
“Holy crap, I just noticed the lineup! You’re so right!” You exclaimed. Sentinels are barely used in this map. The comp for Bind usually excludes the Sentinels and more Controller focused.
“I’m still heartbroken by that Evori Dreamwings and it’s been a year. Might as well change a color theme, ya know?” You added, showing off the gold variant of your Forsaken Skin.
It’s pistol round. Everyone has a limited budget. No one can buy full abilities yet. This round is mainly gun fights and who got the better aim and team play. You bought one smoke and a ghost pistol, trusting that your gun will take the win even with not enough smokes (One free by being Brimstone’s signature ability and one bought).
[Smokes main tend to use the default pistol and not buy a gun. Then spend their budget on smokes on first round. Y/N, however, decided to buy only one smoke and a better gun instead]
”Wah, Hyung. She got the guts.” Jongho leaned forward, more focused on the game than before.
”Yeah, I know. They really need that extra smoke for retake just in case the bomb gets planted.” Yunho explained for the others.
”Nah, she’s just gonna one tap everyone in the head then it’s over. Who needs smokes?” Wooyoung expressed. Yunho internally agreed. That gameplay kinda sounds like you. There were many games where your teammates are telling you to wait for the smokes to disappear but you just ignore them then run into the site, killing everyone guarding.
It’s all pistols. You have your ghost and your smokes. Yunho watched closely how you want to play this first round. “I’ll play A.” You talked in Team Voice Chat. You only have one smoke to push off the Attackers in A, and the extra for B, but after that you’ll have to take gun duels and hope for the best.
Viper and Reyna both went to B Site; Viper positioning herself to push to B Garden, while Reyna pushed to Window. You, Jett, and Fade are in A Site; Fade in Bath, Jett over the truck, and you on lamps. All positions are perfect to get initial info where the enemies may plan to attack. When the barrier went down, Viper and Reyna immediately took a peek for info but the enemies were all in A Site.
You immediately smoked down Bath as Fade retreats. “3 Showers. Reyna and KAY/O. Not sure the other one.”
”Killjoy and Omen, Lobby.” Jett took a couple gun fights getting low HP as she backed away too.
You used your last smoke on A Main and positioned your crosshair to showers in case the other agents pushed through. Omen’s smokes started going down.
Gun duels are now happening. Jett went down but was able to take KAY/O with her. It was a good trade, evening out the numbers.
Fade kills KAY/O and you repositioned behind the truck. Enemies are full pushing the site now. You waited for someone to push lamps to kill Fade, who’s now behind triple, as they don’t know your position yet.
Teammates Viper and Reyna are now rotating to A Site to help. “Reyna, do you have blind? Let’s push this.” You said as you hear the sound of them trying to plant.
”Blinding.” Reyna throw out her Leer, then the both of you peeked. You were able to kill Omen and the Killjoy who was trying to plant. Reyna killed Yoru. “No info on Reyna yet.” your teammate Reyna said.
”Possibly still in showers.” You said, getting behind the boxes. “Watch showers and I’ll watch A Main.”
“Sure. Viper is holding showers on heaven too, just in case.”
The spike is down right in front of you, you and Reyna guarding it.
Yunho smirked, two kills already. Wow.
“Showers, showers.” Viper called out. Fade took the hit and died, the string of Reyna’s heal giving away her position. Viper missed a couple of shots before dying. “Shit, I whiffed so bad. She’s low though, no more heal.”
Enemy Reyna threw out a blind, making you and your teammate hold back on peeking. “Let’s hold a cross, I don’t think she knows your position. I’ll peek then peek after me.”
”Yeah, the bomb is right in front of me, anyway.”
You hear the enemy’s footsteps getting closer to you. Enemy Reyna didn’t clear your side as she was too focused on your teammate in lamps. Your crosshair is in her head, you just need to shoot. Within a second, your teammate peek and you start shooting your gun. Round win.
”Good shit.” Jett called.
“All headshots, hyung!” Jongho exclaimed before bursting into laughter.
”See, I told you she doesn’t need those abilities if she can just kill them with her gun!” Wooyoung clapped, proudly.
After winning the pistol and bonus round, your team took a loss at buy round. “It’s okay, we have enough money to full buy.”
“I’ll go B this time.” You talked. Fourth round already but there’s only one score gap. “God, I hate this map.” You said talking to your chat, chat filled the comments with laughing emotes as they watch you stress over the game.
madaa: gg go next?
“Yeah. Might as well gg go next this shitty map.”
As the round starts, Fade barely got info with her abilities. You stayed behind in B Hall as you wait for Reyna’s cue, who’s hiding behind the Tube.
“Rushing B!” Reyna called out. The sound of the bomb immediately getting planted alerted everyone. Jett immediately goes down followed by Reyna who loses the gun fight.
“Killjoy flank!” You told Fade and Viper. Killjoy killed Viper as you and Fade tried to trade her out. Gun starts shooting on your right side but you were able to flick and take down the KAY/O. It’s 2v2 now. As Fade tries to push the bomb site, you decided to push Elbow. You killed the Omen before he could even react but unfortunately, Fade dies to Yoru in hookah.
Both of you and the enemy Yoru know each other’s position. It’s a battle of who can kill who first.
”She’ll win.” Yunho predicted. And just like that, you hold the perfect angle where the enemy will position himself. ATEEZ watches as you kill the enemy, switch to your Celestial Fan melee skin, then defuse the bomb, coolly— as if you just didn’t save that round for your team.
“Holy~” Hongjoong gave you a slow clap.
That was supposed to be a lost round, with Jett and Reyna dying, leaving it a 3v5. Somehow, you and your teammates were able to make it work. The 3 out of 5 kills coming from you. [Clip here]
STREAMING Room
You won your first map. After all that stressful twenty four rounds, your team was able to win 13-11. For some reason, your teammate Fade sucked on attack and your team had a hard time pushing sites. You were even able to Ace during 5th round but still lost the round because Fade refused to defuse the bomb.
Your teammates were even telling her to defuse so you could Ace but whoever the guy that was playing Fade, just don’t want you to get all five kills. You did your best though and took the loss anyway.
youknowval: i clipped the part where you push through the smoke again
youknowval: impatient girl
“What do you want me to do, youknow? The bomb was planted already!” You pouted. “And I was able to kill Omen and Reyna making it 4v2, so…”
youknowval: that’s why it’s a clip :P
madaa: she learned everything from me except wait for the smoke to disappear
youknowval: i know right
youknowval: i believe it’s even between getting kills when pushing smokes and getting killed and spammed through the smoke LOL
madaa: what can you expect from our consistent girl. she got a nice wallbang kills too tho
youknowval: and that yoru kill :))
madaa: cheers to our girl
“Our girl?” San chortled. “Man… I think you’re losing.”
“Oh shut up, both of you! I Match MVP’d my first game! I’m not hearing anything from you boys.” You bantered with Adam and Youknow in chat.
madaa: LOL LOL LOL
youknowval: bind next map again
“Fuck off, youknow. Do you want to get muted?”
youknowval: manifesting Ascent for you
“Yeah, that’s what I thought.”
madaa: manifesting Abyss for entertainment
“Fuck you, Adam.”
Match Found!
Ascent. Thank God.
”Y’all chat, youknow is controlling my server! I got Ascent!”
They said Cupid's Coffee Station has a magic of bringing people together. Yunho happened to take a liking on it ever since it opened right across KQ Entertainment's building. And he also happened to meet you in there. Will the magic work?
[Edited and Updated. Proof-read. June 19 2024]
"Where's Yunho?" Mingi asked when the rest of the members walked in the practice room. Yunho has been in and out of the practice room ever since this morning. This routine of his started about two weeks ago.
Wooyoung laughed, "He said he likes the coffee across the street."
Mingi raised an eyebrow. "Is he... You?"
Wooyoung shrugged his shoulders with a smile on his face.
"Ready to leave, everyone?" Hongjoong, who just finished stuffing his bag, asked. "Where's Yunho?"
"Across the street." Mingi and Wooyoung answered at the same time.
Hongjoong scoffed, shaking his head. Mingi was getting suspicious. What's his friend been doing at the newly opened coffee shop?
Cupid's Coffee Station — Your go-to café ever since you started attending Hongik University. It's one of those café's your college friends can't stop talking about. According to one of your classmates, this café has magic. Solely because it has the power of bringing people together. And by 'bringing people together', what she meant is setting up the most unlikely couples.
You almost laughed, hearing her voice in your head. That does sound ridiculous, doesn't it?
But who are you to talk? Curiosity got the best of you anyway. Here you are every day, every after class, every chance you get, even during weekends.
You've seen a few of your friends meet someone at this place, yet here you are, a regular, and still haven't met anyone.
Magic. Right, who believes in magic anyway. Just because Cupid's name is in this café doesn't mean his arrow is in every corner of this room, too. Or maybe you're just not meant to meet anyone, really.
You shook your head. "If I don't meet anyone here, that just means there's no magic in this café. Simple." You murmured under your breath, your books colliding at the floral table mats.
It wasn't the first time Yunho saw you talk to yourself. He can tell that you're annoyed, or perhaps just exhausted, even though he couldn't hear the words coming out of your lips. He truly wishes he could just ask, but he is not at all confident in his ability to do so. Although, honestly speaking, he'd probably had the courage if his members were with him.
Wooyoung
We're getting coffees too :))
Yunho
-_-
Wooyoung
Mingi is curious :P
Yunho
= __ =''
You were taken aback by the assortment of pastries available at the counter, most of them were usually sold out by now. You felt your mouth water at the sight and you wanted to taste every dish. From the croissant's golden hue, to the strawberry tart's vibrant red color, to the noisette's lovely swirls of chocolate.
However, the lone blueberry muffin on the side was calling for your attention.
You contemplated over the numerous options for a while before settling on the one and only muffin. You've been craving that blueberry flavor for some reason. Although a blueberry tart would have been a better option (which is sadly not available), the muffin will do the trick.
With a pair of tongs, you reached over the muffin, only to have your hand collide with another one. Chills ran down your spine as you felt the shock of electricity against your skin.
Your eyes met the prettiest eyes you've seen in a while. "Sorry. I didn't notice you're reaching for it too." You apologized.
You felt small under his gaze. He's too handsome to be standing near me. Am I even allowed to breathe the same air as this man?
"You can take it, it's fine." He smiled. You swore you could melt at this moment.
You took the blueberry muffin. Overcoming the feeling of how you felt bad that he wants it too.
The door chimes ring and a few voices from inside the quiet cafe can be heard as you both choose a second pastry. The handsome guy tensed next to you and let out a heavy sigh.
"Yunho-yah~"
So, his name is Yunho. His face suits that name so much. It's like an instant name you'd hear, and you would know that he'll be handsome already.
While you push forward to the barista to order your drink, you watch from your peripheral how Yunho gets mobbed by his friends. "Who are you with?" and "You've been here for an hour and you're just eating now?" are some of the jokes they were making, but Yunho shut them all up.
"Ma'am?" Your cheeks flushed, watching the barista wave his hands in front of your face. "May I have your drink?"
"Right. Uhm, I'll take an iced coffee, please. Two shots of espresso." That was what you needed. You need to boost your energy level and your focus. And an iced coffee might just help you with that.
You settled back into your seat after paying for your order. Glancing around, you realize that you have a full view of Yunho, sitting beside his friend; the one that keeps teasing him earlier.
You refrained yourself from grinning. It's amusing to see how shorter the other guy is compared to him, but Yunho is the one that's getting made fun of. You can tell that the other guys are joining in on the fun even though they have their backs to you.
Yunho continued rolling his eyes and shaking his head, particularly when he was being nudged.
You admire his patience. Could never be me. You thought.
Ever since that day, your encounters with Yunho have been frequent. You also noticed yourself having a habit of admiring him from afar. Most of the time, Yunho would be there before you.
And the rare occasions that you'll come before him, you'd see him still head in the same corner and the same seat. Pen in hand, notebook on the table.
"You're going home already?" Your friend asked while you were stuffing your bag with everything.
"Not really, but I need to finish my research." You mentioned.
It's Friday, the last day of finals for spring semester, has just concluded. You know that your friend will ask you to party and celebrate tonight, but you wanted to complete your research on Contemporary Art by Sunday. It was the last thing you need to pass before you can truly enjoy the summer break.
She slumped her shoulders and pouted. "You're no fun." A smile slipped through her lips. "Is it a guy? You met someone in the café, haven't you?"
You snickered. "Right. Magical coffee shop, blah blah blah. Nope! I just love their pastries."
Your friend hummed, teasingly. Her eyes shooting lasers at you. "He's probably handsome."
"Wh-"
"Fineeeeeee. If you can't go, I won't force you. But don't forget to introduce him to me." She winked, grabbing her bag then giving you a kiss on the cheek. "I think I might know who he is." She bumped her hips to yours.
You staggered back to your table, eyes squinted. She did a couple of dance steps that you don't recognize at all.
"It's something to do with spice and chilli peppers." She rolled her eyes, then laughed, before leaving you alone in the room.
"Whatever." You chuckled.
Cupid's Coffee Station
You tilted your head, blinking at the new LED outdoor sign of the cafe. It was blinking red and pink.
To be fair, there was never a day it wasn't lit, but it used to be just a simple white LED light. This time around, the colored LED confused you.
The chimes tinkled when you walked in. You were even more perplexed when you saw how empty the cafe was. All your favorite pastries lined the counter, not even one missing.
Wait, isn't it Friday? Shouldn't there be more people here? You shake your head.
It's probably one of those days where sales are slow... or is it? I don't know!
You pinched yourself back to reality and placed your bag on your seat. Same old routine; books on the table, sketch pad, laptop, and your collection of pens that only one is used for the whole year.
After a few minutes of writing down your thoughts about the painting you have chosen for your research. You started craving caffeine.
Iced coffee.
Yep, that's what you've decided to get again.
"Hello! Welcome to Cupid's Coffee Station!" You were caught off by the new barista. This time, the barista is a middle-aged man and has a bright smile on his face.
Where's the other guy?
"Sorry, something came up for my nephew so this old man—" pointing at himself, "—has to step in again in his own café."
Oh, he's the owner. Silly me.
You gave him a smile in return. "I'd like an iced coffee, please."
"Two shots of espresso." You both said at the same time.
Okay? What?—
"I apologize once again. I also like iced coffee with two shots of espresso."
You bit the inside of your cheek, stopping yourself from questioning the owner. As he makes your drink, you decide to grab a plate and a pair of tongs. That was weird, really.
You couldn't even count on your head how many times you shook your head today. It feels like there's so many things happening all at once. You just brushed off the strange sensation on your shoulders.
Finally! A blueberry tart. You've been waiting for it for the past few days. For some reason, the tart at school doesn't satisfy your cravings.
"I'll also take this." You paid for your order and made your way back to your area.
You turned back to face the man after placing your orders on the table. His hands were cleaning and wiping the table. The coffee thing is probably just a coincidence and nothing to overthink about.
Honestly speaking, there's probably a million people out there who also like iced coffee with two shots of espresso.
It's not a big deal, Y/N. Chill.
Work. Yunho has been working for a total of thirteen hours. The joy he felt was unexplainable when Hongjoong called it a day. He threw his head back, stretching and relaxing his muscles.
Once his bag is packed and ready, Yunho excused himself and told his members that he'll be at the café.
"Well, you can just call manager-hyung to pick you up later." Yeosang said, yawning in the process. The members who were looking at him followed suit. "I'm tired as hell."
"I'm heading home, too. I wanna sleep so baddd~" Wooyoung fussed, hugging San, who was sitting beside him on the floor.
"Make sure to call—" Mingi was cut off when the door closed behind Yunho. He looked at Hongjoong, expecting him to be just as upset as he is. "Hyung! Did you see that?"
All he got was a few laughter from his friends and a pat on the back from Seonghwa and San. "That asshole." Mingi laughed anyway.
Red, pink, white, red, pink, white, red, pink,...
Has this LED light always been colored? Yunho thought. That's unusual.
Yunho was greeted by the sweet and savory scent of the pastries. He was amazed how many are lining the counters.
Unfortunately, he can feel his body slumping from tiredness. So, anything pastry is not on his list today. He's just here to get a boost from caffeine.
"Hello! Welcome to Cupid's Coffee Station!" A man greeted him.
Yunho's brow raised, looking behind the man and trying to locate the regular barista that serves him. "Nephew's out today, bud. What can I get for you?"
Yunho thought of the many options that he wanted. "One red eye, please."
"Great choice! It's been a long day, huh?" The man conversed.
"Today is extra stressful." Yunho smiled, politely.
"It probably is." The man replied, "Thank God, the cafe's empty today. You need that space and rest."
Yunho surveyed the area. This cafe has never seemed so empty to him. Considering that it's Friday, there should be a ton of people enjoying their last day of work and students hanging out.
While Yunho was happy to be able to unwind in his favorite place, he was also sympathetic to the owner. Low sales only occur occasionally, but it most likely hurts small businesses big time.
"Here's your drink."
Yunho offered his card to pay. The man swiped it quickly and handed it back.
"Enjoy your coffee and stay."
Yunho bowed. "Thank you."
Yunho was striding towards his regular spot when he noticed a table marker placed on the table. Table reserved.
He looked around. Reserved? When the café's empty??
Yunho chose the next nearest table but it's also marked as reserved.
You watched Yunho pace back and forth while holding his wooden tray. Brows raised, you try to peak why he's not sitting down. You saw that every table that was vacant was marked as reserved.
Will there be a special occasion to be held here today?
After minutes of contemplating, you built up your courage to walk up to Yunho.
Your steps were extra silent walking towards the very confused man. He was so tall compared to you. So much taller. With light taps on his arms, you greeted him. His back turned, looking even more baffled than ever. Yunho's eyes widened at the sight of you.
You muster up a smile, "Hi. Uhm... I— Well, you see... I was—"
Yunho observed your stuttering speech. Your cheeks flushed and your eyes refused to meet his gaze. His brain was too cloudy to listen to what you were saying. It was like everything was silent and all he could see was you, standing in front of him with moving lips. His mind is blurred, the words you were speaking were not being processed in his head.
"If that's okay with you." You said.
Yunho blinked, "Sorry? I didn't hear what you said.” He cleared his throat, another silent sorry slipping through his lips.
"You can sit with me. It seems like my table's the only one available right now. Everything seems to be reserved..." You trailed. The both of you looked around and agreed with each other silently.
"Uh yeah. Sure. Thank you so much." Yunho smiled. “I really appreciate it.”
Despite every table being reserved, no one else came in. You were silently hoping for at least one customer to arrive to ease your nervousness around Yunho.
You and him sat there in silence; with him occasionally sipping on his drink and scrolling through his phone. While you, on the other hand, tried your best to conceal most of your face on your laptop’s screen.
Every now and then, you would draw something on your sketchbook and analyze your own techniques, before returning to typing absentmindedly for your paperwork.
You can feel Yunho’s stare sometimes. You’ve seen how he fidgets, mouth twitching as if he wants to talk to you.
Time passed by quickly, yet slowly at the same time. At one point, Yunho asked you if you were an art student. You shyly replied, yes, and from that, the conversation flowed naturally.
"I'm really bad at drawing." Yunho grimaced.
"Oh come on! You can't be that bad!" You assured, pushing the sketchbook further to his side.
A sigh escaped Yunho's lips, but the corner of his lips turned when he gently grabbed the pencil from your fingertips. "If you say so."
You could see Yunho drew a circle, then curves surrounding the initial shape he made. He then drew a straight line down, followed by extremely snaky leaves.
You couldn't help but laugh when he added glow and stars around the flower. "You know, you could've just drawn butterflies. That would make more sense."
Yunho shook his head. "Nope, this is a glowing flower."
"See! You can draw!"
"Fortunately, I do believe that you haven't seen my worst drawings." Yunho dropped the pencil, and picked up his phone. After a mere second, his phone screen was on your face.
You put your hand to your mouth to stop the laughter before it could escape. "You drew that?" You asked in disbelief.
Let's just say that it was the most interesting drawing of a giraffe you have ever seen.
"Are you heading home?" Yunho asked, helping you with the scattered colored pencils on the table.
"Yeah, I'll be taking a bus." The both of you didn't notice the time. It's running almost 9 in the evening before you even know it.
Yunho looked worried, but you muffle out a laugh. "It's fine, Yunho. I live quite near anyway. Just thirty minutes away." You explained. "Plus, you said you have a schedule tomorrow. If I remember correctly, Mingi said the call time is 6 AM." You teased.
He had told you about his group, most especially his best friend, Song Mingi.
"I can drop you off?" It was like Yunho was asking himself more than you.
A large black car pulled up and parked directly in front of the large glass front door before you had a chance to decline.
The owner of the cafe appeared unexpectedly next to you and Yunho, making you both flinch in his presence.
"I hope you enjoyed your stay!" He greeted with the biggest smile on his face.
You had to beam back at him because of his contagious smile. Even though he was intimidating when you first arrived, you can now sense his sincerity and kindness.
Not to add, he asked your table if you needed anything else at all, and your table partner requested a refill for his red eye, which resulted in you and Yunho having more conversation to discuss and random things to tease each other about.
"I hope to see you together again here in Cupid's Coffee Station."
The both of you thanked him. The owner opened the door and bid you safe travel.
Like on queue, the car window rolled down when Yunho stepped out of the coffee shop. You, anxiously playing with your hands, next to him.
Yunho walked towards the rolled down window. "Hyungnim~"
There was a conversation between Yunho and the driver. It was slightly inaudible. However, you can overhear him saying that he needs to drop you off at your house.
"It's late in the evening. I can't just let Y/N go and take a bus."
Short silence... A couple more talking... then Yunho whispered a celebratory 'Yes!'
"Let's go Y/N. We'll take you home." Yunho opened the car door and offered his hand.
Take it! And so you did. For some reason, that voice in your head doesn't even sound like you. It was like a compelling voice that you couldn't even say no to.
You had expected Yunho to sit next to the driver but he didn't. As you put the pieces together, you realized that the driver might also be his manager. Yunho told you a lot about his idol life during the twenty questions game you both had.
"Thank you, Hyung. I know we might get in trouble for this, but really, thank you." Yunho talked while closing the car door and getting comfortable next to you.
"We'll be fine." The manager said, though you can hear the faint worry in his voice. "Uh, Y/N, right? Yunho can't get out of the car when we arrive at your house. Please use the door on your side later."
You nodded. "No problem. Thank you so much."
"Hyung, she knows that."
"Just making things clear, Yunho."
You've told the manager your address afterwards.
The car moved, now on its way to the destination. Looking back at the cafe, you watched the lights inside turned off one by one. Lips parting at the sight of the LED outdoor sign blinking red, pink, then it flickered, completely stopping at white.
Yunho noticed your expression. "Something wrong?"
"The LED light!" You pointed, but when Yunho turned around, the car rounded a corner.
"Why— What happened?"
What was that? Shaking your head, "Nothing. It's probably just my mind playing tricks."
❗ Why do you use other idols’ picture and not real person? Do you ship them?
I once made AUs before and using other people’s pictures but even with their faces hidden may cause conflict with the owners.
So, for me, personally, it’s safer to use idols’ pictures that they have already posted on their social media accounts. Secondly, No. I do not ship them.
As much as possible, I want my stories to look as natural as it can get. With that, I scour my favs’ socials and compare what makes the most sense when you put two pictures side by side (for example: two pictures could pass as being in the same place, similar outfits, etc.) Just pictures that would somehow create connections with the plot of the story.
What apps do you use?
I use Phonto, iMessage, and Social Dummy (Socially Dummy has been removed on App Store since Dec. 30 2020. However since I never really deleted mine and the app server was never taken down, I can still use it.)
Where do you find the photos you use on your AUs?
Mostly Pinterest. But I also save photos from Instagram.
