042

squid game | still in the works

[player042]

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💌 this is just my side blog dedicated to squid game; I probably already follow you with my main acc loves 💌

© PLAYER042 — please do not copy, modify, steal, or translate any of my works on any platform.

[player042]

"we are human"

* squid game season 3 spoilers ahead

apparently so many people hate the way squid game ended. but in my eyes the writing and the outcome is beautiful in the most grotesque way. gi-hun’s journey becomes increasingly kafkaesque the longer it continues. gihun tries everything to fight the system, he speaks out, he refuses to take the money, he returns with purpose thinking he can make a difference. but nothing he does matters. the system absorbs his resistance, twists it, or ignores it completely. he has power but it’s useless. his knowledge changes nothing. in the end he realizes he can’t destroy the game or fix it. the only thing he can do is make a small, personal choice that goes against everything the game stands for. he sacrifices himself so the baby can live. it’s just one final act of quiet defiance. and that helpless clarity, the understanding that the system cannot be beaten, only briefly interrupted, is what makes his ending so deeply kafkaesque. on top of that, it’s a reflection of social reality. it shows what it means to resist within a system designed to wear you down. his sacrifice is not only personal but also very political. it mirrors what happens to people who try to challenge power structures from inside. and that's the tragedy of it all. not that he died, but that it was the only meaningful thing he could still do.

[player042]

not to be dramatic but this was literally me watching season 3 of squid game, especially the last episode:

like. i was fighting for my life emotionally

[player042]

hi yeah um. sorry for disappearing since valentine’s day like a ghosted situationship. but i’m here again. I finished squid game season 3 in one sitting and now I gotta share all the things that are rotting in my brain…

[player042]

VALENTINE'S DAY | kang dae-ho.

pairing: kang dae-ho (player 388) x reader

summary: ever dreamt of spending valentine's day with dae-ho?

warning: established relationship, and just fluff basically

word count: 2.5k

Some nights were meant for quiet, and some nights were not. Your phone's screen illuminated the dimly lit bedroom, casting faint shadows on the walls behind you as you scrolled aimlessly. You were already in bed, wrapped up in a cozy blanket, your hair still slightly damp from your earlier shower. It had been a long day, and all you wanted was to unwind, maybe watch a few videos before dozing off.

But, of course, Dae-ho had other plans.

At exactly midnight, just as you were about to lock your phone and finally call it a night, the bed dipped beside you. A warm hand slid across your waist, and before you could react, a familiar voice murmured in your ear.

"Baby," Dae-ho purred, his voice low, teasing. "It's officially Valentine's Day."

You exhaled a quiet laugh, not bothering to look up from your screen. "Mmm. Happy Valentine's Day. Now go to sleep."

Instead of listening, he nuzzled closer, pressing a lazy kiss just below your ear. "Nope. You're not sleeping through our first Valentine's Day together. Not happening. Get up."

You frowned, finally glancing over at him, "I wasn't planning on sleeping through it. I was planning on celebrating it like a normal person. Tomorrow. When it's light out. And warm."

"Oh, believe me, we'll do that, too."

His face was half-buried against your shoulder, but you could feel the unmistakable energy radiating off him. He was up to something.

"Dae-ho, it's midnight," you groaned, already knowing he wasn't going to let this go.

"Exactly," he said, pulling back just enough to grin at you. "It's like… we're starting the day before everyone else. Just you and me."

You sighed, rolling onto your back to properly look at him. He was propped up on one elbow, eyes gleaming with mischief, a lazy, confident smirk tugging at his lips. His hair was slightly tousled from lying down, and he was still in the hoodie and sweatpants he'd changed into earlier. He looked comfortable, which only made you more suspicious.

"What are you plotting?" you asked, narrowing your eyes.

His smirk widened. "I wanna take you somewhere."

You blinked. "Right now?"

"Right now."

You groaned, dragging a hand down your face. "Dae-ho, it's freezing outside."

"I know," he said, undeterred. "That's why I brought you that big fluffy coat you love."

You narrowed your eyes further. "And where, exactly, do you want to take me at midnight?"

He grinned, clearly enjoying this. "It's a surprise."

You gave him a deadpan look. "Dae-ho."

"Babe," he cooed, teasing, making you swat at his arm. He laughed, catching your wrist and pressing a kiss to your palm before wiggling his eyebrows. "Come on. You trust me, don't you?"

You stared at him for a long moment, weighing your options. On one hand, you were warm, comfortable, and perfectly content scrolling through your phone until you fell asleep. On the other hand… this was Dae-ho. And when he got this kind of excited, it was hard to say no.

You sighed dramatically. "I hate that I trust you."

His grin turned victorious. "That's my girl. Now, come on. Get dressed."

Still grumbling under your breath, you threw off the covers and sat up, shivering slightly at the loss of warmth. Dae-ho smacked your thigh playfully before hopping off the bed himself, already heading toward the closet to grab your coat.

"You're going to love this, I swear," he called over his shoulder.

"You say that every time you drag me into one of your spontaneous ideas," you muttered, shuffling toward the dresser to grab some warm leggings.

"And have I ever been wrong?" he asked, tossing your coat onto the bed with a triumphant smirk.

You pulled your sweater over your head and gave him a look. "I'm not answering that."

Dae-ho just laughed, stepping forward to help you into your coat. "Come on now. Time's ticking."

And before you could protest, he was already pulling you toward the door, grinning like a kid on Christmas morning.

You sighed, letting him lead you out into the night, a small smile tugging at your lips despite yourself.

The city felt quieter at night, as if even the chaos of Seoul had decided to take a breath. You and Dae-ho strolled down the dimly lit streets, his hand warm and steady in yours. The air was crisp, but not cold enough to bite, just enough to make you lean into his warmth as you walked side by side.

"Where are we even going?" you asked, glancing up at him. 

He gave you a sideways glance, that same boyish grin tugging at his lips. "You'll see." 

Fifteen minutes later, you were tapping your fingers against your knee, glancing at the time again. Dae-ho had told you to wait, flashing that playful smirk of his before slipping away up an old, slightly rusty fire escape. He'd been gone for a while now, and patience had never been your strong suit.

You sighed, looking up at the night sky. It was clear tonight, the stars barely visible through the city's haze, but still stubbornly shining. Your breath curled in the cool air as you hesitated, then finally pushed yourself up. If he wasn't coming back down soon, you'd just have to go after him.

Carefully, you climbed the fire escape, the metal creaking beneath your weight. At the top, you hesitated, peeking over the edge of the rooftop.

And that's when you saw it.

Candles. A blanket spread out beneath the open sky. A bottle of wine, two glasses waiting. And in the middle of it all, Dae-ho, crouched down, struggling to light the last of the candles. He cursed softly under his breath, shielding the tiny flame with his hands as the breeze fought against him.

A smile tugged at your lips. "Need some help there, Casanova?"

Dae-ho jerked upright at the sound of your voice, nearly dropping the lighter. His expression shifted instantly, lips curving into that familiar, boyish grin. "Hey! You weren't supposed to see this yet!"

You leaned against the railing, arms crossed. "Well, I got tired of waiting, and now I see why. You're fighting a losing battle here."

He groaned, finally managing to light the last candle before tossing the lighter aside with dramatic flair. "Damn wind. Totally ruined my grand reveal."

You stepped closer, warmth from the candles flickering against your skin. "It's already perfect."

Dae-ho's lips curled into a soft grin as he stood, brushing his hands off on his pants. "Thought you deserved something special."

Your heart tightened at his words. He always had this way of making you feel like the only person in the world.

He reached for the wine bottle, topping off your glass before handing it to you. "To us."

You clinked yours against his. "To us."

The first sip was smooth, warming you from the inside out. The city stretched beyond the rooftop, its lights flickering like tiny fireflies. Everything felt soft, quiet, intimate. Neon lights flickered in the distance, their reflections dancing on the Han River, but above you, above the noise and the glow, the sky stretched out, vast and endless.

For a while, neither of you spoke. You lay back on the blanket together, the distant hum of the city below fading into background noise. The silence was comfortable, like a shared secret. His hand found yours again, his fingers tracing lazy patterns along your knuckles.

"You know," he murmured after a moment, his voice barely louder than a whisper, "I read somewhere that stars are just old light. Like… what we're seeing is already in the past."

You turned your head to look at him. His profile was bathed in the soft glow of the candles, eyes flickering with something distant, thoughtful.

"That's kind of depressing," you admitted.

He chuckled softly, shaking his head. "No, it's not. It's… romantic, in a way. Even when they're gone, they're still shining. Still leaving a mark."

You stared at him for a long moment, your heart tightening in that annoying way it always did when he said something unexpectedly profound. "You're such a sap," you whispered, but your fingers tightened around his.

"And you love it."

You didn't reply. You didn't need to.

Instead, you leaned in, your lips finding his in a kiss that tasted like midnight and promises. His arms wrapped around you, pulling you closer, grounding you in a world that suddenly felt a little less overwhelming.

Then, as if remembering something, Dae-ho broke the kiss in a sudden, sitting up. "Oh, almost forgot. I, uh, got you something."

You blinked as he pulled out a small velvet box and placed it in your hands.

"Dae-ho…"

"Relax," he teased. "It's not a ring. Unless you want it to be."

You shot him a glare, and he laughed, nudging you lightly. "Okay, okay. Just open it."

Inside, resting on soft velvet, was a delicate gold necklace, a tiny star pendant dangling from the chain. It was simple but striking; subtle, yet something about it felt personal, like it belonged to you before you'd even touched it.

Your fingers traced the charm, warmth blooming in your chest. "It's beautiful."

Dae-ho rubbed the back of his neck, watching you carefully. "Yeah? I just... I saw it, and it reminded me of you." His voice dipped slightly, quieter now. "Something that still shines, no matter what."

You swallowed past the lump in your throat and, without thinking, leaned in, wrapping your arms around his neck. He let out a small chuckle, arms sliding around your waist, pulling you close.

"So, you like it?"

You pulled back just enough to meet his eyes. "I love it."

His grin widened. "Then it was worth it, my valentine."

Dae-ho gently took the necklace from your hands and motioned for you to turn around. You did, brushing your hair to the side as his fingers grazed your skin while fastening the clasp. The touch was brief, but it sent a shiver down your spine.

"There," he murmured. "Perfect."

You turned back to him, fingers reaching up to trace the tiny charm. "Thank you."

His eyes lingered on yours, something unreadable flickering beneath the warmth. "Anytime."

You lay back down together. His arm draped around you, pulling you against him, your legs tangling beneath the blanket. And as you looked up at the stars again, their light spilling across the night like old secrets, you realized how Valentine's Day wasn't just about fancy dinners and overpriced flowers, it was about moments like this. About moments with the one person you were completely and utterly in love with.

The walk home later was easy, your hands still intertwined, swinging gently between you as the city lights flickered against the dark sky. You walked in silence, but it wasn't the awkward kind. It was the kind that buzzed with anticipation, like both of you knew exactly where this night was headed but were savoring every second before you got there. Overhead, the stars still twinkled, faint but steady, like they were in on some secret the two of you shared.

Dae-ho's thumb traced idle circles against your skin, his steps perfectly in sync with yours. The warmth of his hand in yours was familiar, comforting. His fingers tightened around yours, and when you glanced up at him, his grin had softened into something more tender. The kind of look that made your chest ache in the best way.

"You know," he murmured, his voice a little quieter now, "I was thinking about this all day."

You raised an eyebrow, though your heart was already beating a little faster. "About what?"

"This." He gestured vaguely, but you knew he meant more than just the stars or the walk home. His thumb brushed over the back of your hand again, slow and deliberate. "Us. You. The fact that I get to come home to you every day."

Your breath hitched, just a little. It always did when he got like this, when he dropped the teasing for just a second and let you see all that emotion he usually kept tucked beneath his easy smiles.

But, true to form, he didn't let the mood linger too long.

"And, of course…" He flashed that familiar, cocky grin, leaning in until his lips hovered just above your ear. "…how good you're gonna look when that red lingerie's on my floor."

Your skin tingled where his breath had ghosted over your ear as you shot him a sideways glance. A feeling of mischief flickered to life then. Two could play this game.

"Oh?" you hummed, pretending to consider his words. "You're that excited to get home?" Without breaking eye contact, you let your hand trail lazily up to your shoulder, fingers brushing against the fabric of your top. Then, ever so slowly, you slid the neckline down just enough to reveal the thin, crimson strap of your bra. "What if I told you…" you continued, your voice low and teasing, "…I wore it just to not let you see it?"

For a moment, he froze mid-step, his playful grin faltering as his eyes zeroed in on the hint of lace peeking out. You watched, thoroughly amused, as his eyes darkened slightly, the playful glint now laced with something deeper. His tongue darted out to wet his lips, and for a second, you swore he forgot how to breathe. You bit the inside of your cheek to keep from laughing, as he swallowed hard, his Adam's apple bobbing.

"Babe," he said slowly, his voice a little rougher with a warning edge to his tone, but his lips twitched like he couldn't decide between being flustered or amused. "You really wanna test me right now?"

You raised an innocent brow, struggling to keep a straight face. "Test you? I'm just walking, babe. You're the one losing composure over a little strap."

That did it.

He let out a breathless laugh, running a hand through his hair as if trying to steady himself. "Oh, you're in trouble now," he muttered, eyes gleaming with affection and playful menace.

Before you could react, he lunged. You let out a squeal as he grabbed your waist, spinning you around in the middle of the empty street. Your laughter bubbled up uncontrollably, echoing off the buildings as he pressed his forehead against yours, both of you breathless.

"You think you're funny, huh?" he whispered, his lips ghosting over yours, his breath warm and intoxicating.

"I know I'm funny," you shot back, grinning wide.

He chuckled, shaking his head like he couldn't believe what he'd gotten himself into. "You're lucky I love you," he murmured, his voice low and sincere, laced with that familiar warmth that always melted you from the inside out. "Because if we weren't already almost home, I'd prove just how much trouble you're in."

Your heart skipped a beat, but you kept your cool, leaning in until your lips were just a hair's breadth from his. "Promises, promises," you whispered, before slipping out of his arms and sauntering ahead, leaving him standing there, shaking his head and laughing to himself.

You didn't need to look back to know he was watching you with that familiar fire in his eyes.

And damn, you couldn't wait to get home.

Because Valentine's Day had only just begun.

[player042]

happy valentine’s day pookies <3

[player042]

PLEASE MAKE A PART 2 OF A NIGHT FORGOTTEN oh my god i need to see daehos reaction when they meet in the games

omg I LOVE your energy!! actually, I’m almost done with part 2 and trust me a lot is going to happen in that chapter 🤭

but just a heads up, the official start of the games will be in part 3, so I hope you’ll stick around for that, I can’t wait to share it with you. thank you so much for your support!! ♥️

[adelicatebubble]

✉﹕you've got mail .ᐟ squid game fic recs ── .✦ includes both sfw & nsfw ｡°⚠︎°｡

HWANG JUN-HO (황준호)

› IN ANOTHER LIFE

› DON'T YOU WANT A FAMILY WITH ME?

HWANG IN-HO (황인호) / FRONT MAN (프론트 맨) / OH YOUNG-IL / PLAYER 001

› TWO SIDES OF A COIN

› DISTANT FLICKERING'S GREENER SCENERY (PT.2) (PT.3)

KANG SAE-BYEOK (강새벽) / PLAYER 067

› CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

CHOI SU-BONG (최수봉) / THANOS (타노스) / PLAYER 230

› THANGYU NSFW ALPHABET

› BOTH? BOTH!

› A GUT FEELING

› MOVIE SETTING

› INFINITY LOOP

› BREAKING POINT

› WITHDRAWALS

› THE ASSISTANT

› DOC

LEE MYUNG-GI (이명기) / PLAYER 333

› SILENT VENGEANCE

› GUARDIAN

› BOYFRIEND MYUNG-GI IN THE GAMES

› PAZ CON USTED

› MYUNG-GI HAS TO PROVE HIMSELF TO YOU

› GAME OF DECEPTION

› SO NEEDY

› YK I LOVE YOU

› LAST NIGHT

› VIBRATIONS

KANG DAE-HO (강대호) / PLAYER 388

› THE LOOK OF LOVE

› YOU THIRSTY? (PT.2)

› PLEASE (PT.2)

› A WELCOME DISTRACTION

› WE'RE OKAY

› THE THREE OF US

› THE THREE OF US: AFTER THE GAMES

› WHISKEY TANGO FOXTROT

› REVERSE COMFORT

› A NOT SO SECRET SECRET (PT.2)

› JUST LIKE THAT

› WAKING DAE-HO

› EUCLID

› CHAIN OF ARMOUR

› BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU WISH FOR

› SLEEP WELL

› HAIR TIE

› IN THE NIGHT

› A DEBT TO THE HEART

› HEARTBEAT

› HER SUN, HIS MOON

› A NIGHT FORGOTTEN

› ENTITLEMENT

› MY PAIN, YOUR GAIN

› BOREDOM GOT A NEW BESTFRIEND

› CRYPTIC

› AN EXCHANGE

› CHASING A GHOST

› THE LAMP

MULTIPLE

› SHARK WEEK

› CUDDLING

› PROTECTIVE

› HOW THEY REACT WHEN THEY FIND OUT THEIR ONE NIGHT STAND HAD A CHILD

「 creator taglist 」

@aleexoxosstuff - @dollzites - @catchastarorten - @pixiepipedreams - @cherrybyeok - @5iyoomi - @madeofglittter - @erysser - @meadowfics - @luvfae - @choerypetal - @extinctlesspains - @hyunsuloves - @pushingdaisies1 - @greengoblinswifey - @itsnesss - @amoristt - @ferrarifinnick - @player042 - @prettycopperpennies - @cosmictheo - @producedbysohyun - @niniwritesxo - @charmedimsure -

𓂃ⓘ this is not final, edits will be made. thank you for your patience and cooperation ᯓᡣ𐭩

[player042]

ahhh my heart is full ♥️ thank you so much for including me in your recommendations!! and amongst such amazing authors?? can’t wait to check out the full list ✨

[trickbxbes]

𝐖𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐅𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐈𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐞 𝐀𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧

[𝐃𝐚𝐞-𝐇𝐨 𝐗 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫]

Summary: After being the sole winner of the games, Dae-Ho realizes he’s not the same man anymore. Does this version of him deserve his wife?

Warnings: Angst, hurt and comfort, sole survivor Dae-Ho

The sky poured as Dae-Ho reached the front of his apartment building. The dark clouds blocked the twinkling stars in the night sky. His clothes drenched with rainwater. He stared up at the building, more specifically, a window. There was a faint glow of yellow on the walls of that studio.

He shakily sighed, you were home.

But just as he takes a step to enter the building, he finds himself frozen where he stood. His first thought was a simple ‘why can’t I move?’, before it sunk in. It hadn’t been that long to the rest of the world. To Dae-Ho however, it felt like an eternity. All he wanted when he was in those games was to run back into your arms. Your loving arms that always made him feel safe, loved. He had entered the games to pay off his debts so you and him could live a normal life. Because no matter how he tried to keep you from his problems, your kind heart always kept you involved. He felt like he didn’t deserve you, no matter how much you told him otherwise. And that was before the games.

455 people died so he could be here. The money he now owned, came from the blood of those 455 people. Why? Why was he the one to survive? It played in his head like a sick record. And when he thought about it deeper, how many of the 455… did he kill with his own hands?

He was as still as a statue. He knew for a fact, he wasn’t the same person as the one who first entered the games. His once beaming heart of light was now shrouded with grief and darkness. The kindness in his eyes was replaced with a jaded anguish. 455 people. 455.

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

You were in your kitchen, trying to make a meal for yourself. But every movement you made felt heavy. Invisible weights shackled your limbs. The bags under your eyes were deep. Your eyes roll down to the wedding ring on your finger. A reminder of the man you loved so dearly, a man you haven’t heard from in a week.

You knew your Dae-Ho, he’d never do this to you. All of his stuff was still here. Which led you to worry deeply on another possibility. Perhaps the loan sharks caught up to him? Maybe they took him somewhere, and you’d never see him again. The wait was agonizing.

Knock knock knock.

Your head perked up to the door, and you bolt to the door. Could it be? Have your prayers been answered? Opening the door, you see your beloved standing there. Your heart nearly leaped out of your chest. Dae-Ho looks at you, his eyes softening. “(Y,n)…”

Without wasting a second, you hug the man desperately. “Dae-Ho!” Tears well up in your eyes as you clung to him. He’s stiff, stiffer than you’ve ever felt him be. But as he steadily wrapped his arms around you, his grip then got tight. His strong arms nearly squeezed your breath out of your lungs. His shoulders shook slightly, as he held back his own overwhelming emotion.

When you pulled back, you felt his hands gently grip at you as if you’d disappear once he let go. You cup his face, your face contorted with concern.

“Oh God, where have you been? A-are you hurt? I-I was so scared I—“

“(Y,n)…”

Dae-Ho’s voice sounded as if someone had their hands around his throat. Thin, and croaky. Then, you took notice of how different your man looked. His skin was paler, his frame thinner. There was no light in his eyes. “Dae-Ho… what happened…?” You closed the door, and then put your hands on his shoulders.

Your love took a deep breath, he pulled out a card from his pocket. You looked at it with some confusion, but you allowed him to elaborate.

“This card… has all the money to pay off my debt, and more.”

He didn’t break eye contact as he continued, his lip quivering. “But to get this money, I had to endure and do unspeakable things. Things that… made me not the man you once knew.” His hands shakily take yours, as his eyes watered. Your heart twisted in knots seeing him look so broken. Before you could speak, he then asks,

“Would you fall in love with me again… if you knew all I’d done…?”

His question carried a burden he didn’t wish to place on your shoulders. You’re quiet, processing his words. You didn’t have a clue what he was talking about. Your lips part, and you ask,

“What kind of things did you do?”

Your query made Dae-Ho take a shaky breath. The memories of the games made him let go of your hands, as if feeling unworthy. “I-I had to play games, for my survival. So many people died. I found a group though, people I soon called my friends.” A single tear rolled down his cheek, he’s unable to meet your gaze. His shaky hands rose to his chest, holding each other. “But every one of them are gone now. And some of their deaths… were my fault.” His voice cracked, he tearfully looked at you again.

“But all of that was to bring me back to you…!”

Despite everything, all the trauma, all the guilt, he still hoped and begged… he wouldn’t lose you too.

“So tell me. Would you fall in love with me again? After everything I had to do, I’m… I’m not the same person. I’m worse, I’m… I’m not the man you married. I’ve hurt people, I’ve killed people…I can’t change any of that…!So… I have to ask… because…”

You knew what he meant. He loved you, of course he did. Your silence only increased his anxiety. You lift your hand, looking at your wedding ring on your finger. There was a distant look in your eyes.

“If that’s true, can you do me a favor? Let me sell this wedding ring. If you have all that money, I’m sure you’ll be able to find one for yourself. Better than any pawn shop.”

Your words broke Dae-Ho’s heart into little pieces. He looked like a kicked puppy. Even though he was setting it up, he didn’t expect for you to agree with his guilt. “You…really…?” But one thing in your statement brought him anger. The last comment. His eyebrows furrowed. “‘P-pawn shop?’ That ring… belonged to my halmoni. A ring she saved specially for me as the first born son! It’s a family heirloom! A blessing of our love! To sell it… that’d make her roll in her grave!”

“Only my husband knew that! So I guess that makes him YOU!”

You shout back instantly. Dae-Ho’s wide eyes stared into your soul with shock, before they melt into realization. “(Y,n)…”

You take a deep breath. “I will fall in love with you, over and over again. I don’t care what you had to do to survive…! You’re mine!” Hot tears pooled in your eyes next. All the emotions you had been experiencing this past week coming out at once. “Don’t tell me you’re not the same person! You’re always my husband and I’ve been waiting for you…!”

That broke your Dae-Ho into sobs as the two of you embraced each other emotionally. All the pain he had inside of him, spilled out intensely. Everyone who died, everything he lost, all to make it back here. He didn’t need to speak, you knew what he wanted to communicate through his wails.

He didn’t think he’d make it back.

He did everything he could to be here back in your arms.

He loved you, so much.

Your hand found the back of his head, and you stroked it gently. His cries wet your shoulder, his hands gripped your back. You softly wept beside him. He had went through so much misery. The two of you are unable to stand, slowly sliding down to your knees.

Dae-Ho pulls back to hold your face tenderly. His eyes scanning your face for any sign of dismay or deception. But all he saw was your loving gaze as you held his hand on your cheek. He sniffled.

“I’m yours.”

You smiled tearfully, kissing the inner palm of his hand. “I love you.”

Your husband sinks his head into your shoulder again, letting you cradle him soothingly on the floor. “I love you…” You knew there was more to come. He may have escaped the games, but he’d never escape the horrid memories. The monsters of his grief would always come to taunt him. But little did they know that you weren’t going to leave him to their mercy. You’ll be his protecter, just as he was to you.

[player042]

uhhhhhhhh kinda want to gatekeep this from myself but on the other hand I’m too curious now… I think I found my late night read for tonight 😍😍 will be back later xx 🎀

[player042]

ugh, husband dae-ho 😫 and it’s angsty 😫 and there’s comfort 😫 SIGN ME UP!!! but first, like I’ve said before, I just knew I’d love this. and surprise, I DO!

I LOVE THE IDEA, I LOVE THE WRITING, I LOVE THE CONCEPT, I LOVE THE DIALOGUE, I LOVE THE WAY YOU PORTRAY THE CHARACTERS 😍😭 from a literary point of view, i loved the nuances, especially the contrast between dae-ho’s physical return home and the emotional distance he feels from himself and his past. it was incredibly powerful.

and might i just say, her reaction, especially the moment when she suggests selling the wedding ring, was a brilliant narrative choice. it even threw me off balance, so i could perfectly picture dae-ho’s own uncertainty and selfloathing. but beyond that, it showcases how love isn’t just tested in moments of harmony, but is defined in the face of pain and loss. you have such a talent for keeping the dialogue raw and authentic without tipping into melodrama, which is honestly so hard to do with material this emotionally charged. and i’m definitely looking forward to reading more from you.

so thank you for sharing such a beautifully written piece ♥️

[player042]

BABYCAT | kang dae ho.

— Is a threat not a promise?

summary: drowning in debt and desperation, you spend one unforgettable night with a stranger whose touch makes you craving for more, until morning comes, and you leave without even knowing his name. but fate has other plans. when you enter the games to escape your crumbling life, you find him there too, kang dae ho, the man you swore you’d never see again.

in a world where love is a weakness and trust can get you killed, will he be your greatest threat or your only chance at survival?

EPISODE 1: A Night Forgotten

EPISODE 2:

EPISODE 3:

EPISODE 4:

EPISODE 5:

EPISODE 6:

EPISODE 7:

content warnings: romantic softness, emotional intensity, explicit language, dubious consent and power dynamics, violence and physical altercations, sexual content (non-explicit smut), psychological manipulation, substance and alcohol use, financial struggles and debt-related stress, death and graphic descriptions, emotional trauma and mental health themes, toxic relationships and morally grey characters.

author’s note: this is a (dark) romance story that begins before the events of squid game season 2 and follows the show’s storyline as it unfolds. while it's part of an ongoing series, each chapter can be enjoyed as a standalone. there are no mentions of y/n or descriptions of the female reader's physical appearance, allowing for full immersion in the story.

© PLAYER042 — All Rights Reserved. please do not copy, modify, steal, or translate any of my works on any platform.

[trickbxbes]

𝐖𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐅𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐈𝐧 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐌𝐞 𝐀𝐠𝐚𝐢𝐧

[𝐃𝐚𝐞-𝐇𝐨 𝐗 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫]

Summary: After being the sole winner of the games, Dae-Ho realizes he’s not the same man anymore. Does this version of him deserve his wife?

Warnings: Angst, hurt and comfort, sole survivor Dae-Ho

The sky poured as Dae-Ho reached the front of his apartment building. The dark clouds blocked the twinkling stars in the night sky. His clothes drenched with rainwater. He stared up at the building, more specifically, a window. There was a faint glow of yellow on the walls of that studio.

He shakily sighed, you were home.

But just as he takes a step to enter the building, he finds himself frozen where he stood. His first thought was a simple ‘why can’t I move?’, before it sunk in. It hadn’t been that long to the rest of the world. To Dae-Ho however, it felt like an eternity. All he wanted when he was in those games was to run back into your arms. Your loving arms that always made him feel safe, loved. He had entered the games to pay off his debts so you and him could live a normal life. Because no matter how he tried to keep you from his problems, your kind heart always kept you involved. He felt like he didn’t deserve you, no matter how much you told him otherwise. And that was before the games.

455 people died so he could be here. The money he now owned, came from the blood of those 455 people. Why? Why was he the one to survive? It played in his head like a sick record. And when he thought about it deeper, how many of the 455… did he kill with his own hands?

He was as still as a statue. He knew for a fact, he wasn’t the same person as the one who first entered the games. His once beaming heart of light was now shrouded with grief and darkness. The kindness in his eyes was replaced with a jaded anguish. 455 people. 455.

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

You were in your kitchen, trying to make a meal for yourself. But every movement you made felt heavy. Invisible weights shackled your limbs. The bags under your eyes were deep. Your eyes roll down to the wedding ring on your finger. A reminder of the man you loved so dearly, a man you haven’t heard from in a week.

You knew your Dae-Ho, he’d never do this to you. All of his stuff was still here. Which led you to worry deeply on another possibility. Perhaps the loan sharks caught up to him? Maybe they took him somewhere, and you’d never see him again. The wait was agonizing.

Knock knock knock.

Your head perked up to the door, and you bolt to the door. Could it be? Have your prayers been answered? Opening the door, you see your beloved standing there. Your heart nearly leaped out of your chest. Dae-Ho looks at you, his eyes softening. “(Y,n)…”

Without wasting a second, you hug the man desperately. “Dae-Ho!” Tears well up in your eyes as you clung to him. He’s stiff, stiffer than you’ve ever felt him be. But as he steadily wrapped his arms around you, his grip then got tight. His strong arms nearly squeezed your breath out of your lungs. His shoulders shook slightly, as he held back his own overwhelming emotion.

When you pulled back, you felt his hands gently grip at you as if you’d disappear once he let go. You cup his face, your face contorted with concern.

“Oh God, where have you been? A-are you hurt? I-I was so scared I—“

“(Y,n)…”

Dae-Ho’s voice sounded as if someone had their hands around his throat. Thin, and croaky. Then, you took notice of how different your man looked. His skin was paler, his frame thinner. There was no light in his eyes. “Dae-Ho… what happened…?” You closed the door, and then put your hands on his shoulders.

Your love took a deep breath, he pulled out a card from his pocket. You looked at it with some confusion, but you allowed him to elaborate.

“This card… has all the money to pay off my debt, and more.”

He didn’t break eye contact as he continued, his lip quivering. “But to get this money, I had to endure and do unspeakable things. Things that… made me not the man you once knew.” His hands shakily take yours, as his eyes watered. Your heart twisted in knots seeing him look so broken. Before you could speak, he then asks,

“Would you fall in love with me again… if you knew all I’d done…?”

His question carried a burden he didn’t wish to place on your shoulders. You’re quiet, processing his words. You didn’t have a clue what he was talking about. Your lips part, and you ask,

“What kind of things did you do?”

Your query made Dae-Ho take a shaky breath. The memories of the games made him let go of your hands, as if feeling unworthy. “I-I had to play games, for my survival. So many people died. I found a group though, people I soon called my friends.” A single tear rolled down his cheek, he’s unable to meet your gaze. His shaky hands rose to his chest, holding each other. “But every one of them are gone now. And some of their deaths… were my fault.” His voice cracked, he tearfully looked at you again.

“But all of that was to bring me back to you…!”

Despite everything, all the trauma, all the guilt, he still hoped and begged… he wouldn’t lose you too.

“So tell me. Would you fall in love with me again? After everything I had to do, I’m… I’m not the same person. I’m worse, I’m… I’m not the man you married. I’ve hurt people, I’ve killed people…I can’t change any of that…!So… I have to ask… because…”

You knew what he meant. He loved you, of course he did. Your silence only increased his anxiety. You lift your hand, looking at your wedding ring on your finger. There was a distant look in your eyes.

“If that’s true, can you do me a favor? Let me sell this wedding ring. If you have all that money, I’m sure you’ll be able to find one for yourself. Better than any pawn shop.”

Your words broke Dae-Ho’s heart into little pieces. He looked like a kicked puppy. Even though he was setting it up, he didn’t expect for you to agree with his guilt. “You…really…?” But one thing in your statement brought him anger. The last comment. His eyebrows furrowed. “‘P-pawn shop?’ That ring… belonged to my halmoni. A ring she saved specially for me as the first born son! It’s a family heirloom! A blessing of our love! To sell it… that’d make her roll in her grave!”

“Only my husband knew that! So I guess that makes him YOU!”

You shout back instantly. Dae-Ho’s wide eyes stared into your soul with shock, before they melt into realization. “(Y,n)…”

You take a deep breath. “I will fall in love with you, over and over again. I don’t care what you had to do to survive…! You’re mine!” Hot tears pooled in your eyes next. All the emotions you had been experiencing this past week coming out at once. “Don’t tell me you’re not the same person! You’re always my husband and I’ve been waiting for you…!”

That broke your Dae-Ho into sobs as the two of you embraced each other emotionally. All the pain he had inside of him, spilled out intensely. Everyone who died, everything he lost, all to make it back here. He didn’t need to speak, you knew what he wanted to communicate through his wails.

He didn’t think he’d make it back.

He did everything he could to be here back in your arms.

He loved you, so much.

Your hand found the back of his head, and you stroked it gently. His cries wet your shoulder, his hands gripped your back. You softly wept beside him. He had went through so much misery. The two of you are unable to stand, slowly sliding down to your knees.

Dae-Ho pulls back to hold your face tenderly. His eyes scanning your face for any sign of dismay or deception. But all he saw was your loving gaze as you held his hand on your cheek. He sniffled.

“I’m yours.”

You smiled tearfully, kissing the inner palm of his hand. “I love you.”

Your husband sinks his head into your shoulder again, letting you cradle him soothingly on the floor. “I love you…” You knew there was more to come. He may have escaped the games, but he’d never escape the horrid memories. The monsters of his grief would always come to taunt him. But little did they know that you weren’t going to leave him to their mercy. You’ll be his protecter, just as he was to you.

[player042]

uhhhhhhhh kinda want to gatekeep this from myself but on the other hand I’m too curious now… I think I found my late night read for tonight 😍😍 will be back later xx 🎀

[jess-emurphy]

Looking into the camera like I pissed them off????

[player042]

lol ok almost a month after creating this blog and I’m just now finding out that I can’t leave asks on other blogs with this account???? how am I supposed to interact with my pookies here???? shocked and upset !?!?!!!!!!

[player042]

NOOOOOOOO who hurt you 😭 we will fight them for you and send them to the games. You deserve all the love in the world and I hope you‘re giving yourself a lil break 🫶🏻

your message made me ugly cry and laugh at the same time and I love you for that 😂♥️ i definitely feel better now and I hope you’re doing good as well? much love to you <333

[player042]

Hey so just wanted to ask if you still accept requests? :)

hi babes, yes my requests are open. just a heads up though, I currently have around ten or eleven requests waiting to be written. with everyday life drama and exam season going on, I sadly can’t promise they’ll be done quickly. however, I’ll definitely try, and on a positive note, I’ll have more time next month, so things should move faster then. soooo yeah, you’re always welcome to send your request in! ✨

[player042]

Hiyaa just read your update and I wanna say THANK YOU for all the amazing stories youve shared. Pls take your time ok 🤍

ok so i’ve procrastinated answering all of these loving asks that I’m now getting so emotional again. thank you for caring and for your understanding, it really means a lot. i didn’t expect getting this much love 🥺♥️ but I think I’ve took enough time, I just want to be back here and read and write xx ly

[player042]

literally wanna wrap you in a blanket burrito rn 😭💘

awww you know what, this sounds like the best idea in a very long time. please proceed my dear anon <3 (i’ll order the real burritos for us btw)