rigel's @rsie4me - Tumblr Blog

Apr 28

SIM JAEYUN & HIS RUNAWAY RAPUNZEL

• SYNOPSIS: You had the habit of running away when things overwhelmed you. Jake had a way of always being there to catch you before you fall. Somewhere between stolen glances, half-spoken words and moments that almost meant something, you fell in love. So, you did what you knew the best, you ran. Away from your feelings, away from him. But now you're back, still utterly in love. And he's still the same, still steady, still yours in a way that doesn't count. Except now, there's someone standing on the place where you once stood.

• PAIRING: Sim Jaeyun x afab!reader

• WORD COUNT: 19.2k

• CONTENT TAGS: Non idol au, childhood best friends to ?, reader has long hair.

• WARNING TAGS: MDNI, smut, oral (fem receiving), dub con, intoxication, unprotected sex (pls wrap it before you tap it), lots of guilt.

• AUTHOR'S NOTE: Heya! Missed me? Hope you guys will enjoy! Happy reading♡♡

The country welcomed you back with open arms, you set your foot on familiar ground. Your first breath back home carried a whisper of the past, and it sounded just like him. Jake. The boy who carried you home in his arms on prom night. The night where you abandoned everything behind only to trip over your escape and land in his story. He wasn't supposed to stay but he did. In all the ways that mattered but not in the ways that you wanted.

You weren't trapped in a tower, just a suffocating gym full of unnecessary decorations, harsh lightning, over the top laughter and last minute choices. So, as the plot of your life demanded, you did what any unhinged fairytale princess would do.

You ran.

The music inside the gym was too loud, and not in a fun way, but the I-can't-think-over-the-beat-of-the-music kind of way. You were enjoying the night initially, clicking pictures with your friends, laughing obnoxiously at every stupid thing like this was your last chance at being happy, drinking mocktails and dancing like the universe had pressed a pause button just for this moment.

One moment you were having the time of your life, the next moment your dress started to feel too tight at the ribs. Everyone was enjoying their night but it all started feeling like too much. You dramatically pushed open the side door of the gym, the kind no one really uses because its creaking sound made goosebumps crawl on your skin. Your heels clicked against the tiles of the school's empty hallway as you exhaled deeply. Hands raising up to undo your updo, it has started to give you a headache. You put the bobby pins inside your gown's pocket, hair now loose and you flicked them back as they fell on your face.

Your steps were rushed, more quicker than you meant, mind set only on getting outside, breathing real air, and tearing off the god awful heels that had been punishing you all night. Your head was hung low, eyes focused on your hands grabbing onto the fabric of the gown to walk better when you lost your balance by bumping against something. Or someone.

The sudden jolt knocked the air out of your chest, and you lost your balance, the sound of your heel giving up was louder than your surprised gasp. But before your night could get any worse than this, two hands gripped your waist, pulling you closer in the heat of the moment. Your hands settled against the person's shoulder in a frail attempt at stabilizing yourself.

For a moment, everything stilled. You could feel the fingers tighten a bit at your sides before your eyes met him, like he was making sure this moment was real. Your heart beat loudly in your chest and with the little amount of space you had in between you, there was no doubt that he could feel it too.

"Easy, Rapunzel." His lips curled into a smirk, his voice dripping with amusement, "I don't know why you're running away, but I got you." You broke out of the trance the stupidly gorgeous man in front of you had trapped you in. You pulled back, stepping away to continue your way when you were yanked back by your hair. You hissed, hands reaching up to hold the area that stung, turning around slightly to find some of your hair tangled in his shirt button.

His eyes widened, hands fumbling against his button to free your hair. You stepped closer, removing his hands gently. "Let me," your fingers moved carefully, occasionally brushing against his chest. His breath hitched, but neither of you dared to break the moment.

"All done," your voice trembled at the end. You gave him a tight smile, stepping back only to stumble again when your heel completely gave up and your ankle twisted a little. His hands reached out for you again, this time he grabbed your hand instead before crouching down to inspect your leg.

"Okay, I need you to sit down somewhere first," he looked up at you, hands on your ankle and you nodded. He gently unbuckled the heel and slid it off, his hands lingering as he checked for any injury. You winced as soon as your foot met the floor, the discomfort undeniable. He noticed the flicker of pain in your eyes as you tried to stand, "don't move," he said, standing up and carefully lifting you in his arms to look for a place to sit.

"What are you doing?" You hissed, eyes darting towards your surroundings to check if anyone noticed. "Taking you somewhere comfortable, Rapunzel." He stepped out of the school and towards the parking area, casually adjusting you in his arms as if you weighed nothing. You could clearly see the small freckles under his eyes from up close. You looked away.

"Why do you keep calling me Rapunzel?" You questioned as he put you down to sit on small stairs that led up the parking lot. He huffed out a breath, removing his blazer and undoing the top two buttons of his shirt. He rested his hands on his hips as he looked at you, "well for starters you look like a princess," your eyes widened, heat creeping on your face and he stuttered, realizing the weight of his words.

"What I mean is," he started, the tip of his ears turning red as he struggled to explain, "your long hair, purple gown, the dramatic exit from the prom, should I keep going?" You rolled your eyes, biting back a smile. Then you pondered over his words, eyes falling down on your gown, the lavender satin dress with sheer tulle overlay shining softly under the moonlight. "Okay okay, I get it. I was having a moment, but don't romanticize my downfall like that!"

He laughed, turning his head towards the school's entrance before his eyes locked into you, with a mischievous smile he sat in front of you, hands on your knees, "sorry, but if you're gonna stumble into my arms in a gown, I have to romanticize it." The subtle emphasis on the word 'have' didn't go unnoticed by you. "Where do you live? Let me drop you home, you clearly cannot walk." You took a moment to think, realizing that your parents won't be able to pick you up since they were busy, and you didn't want to ruin your friend's night, you agreed with him.

He carried you bridal style, your high heels dangling from his hand which supported the back of your thighs. "Why are you out here though? Shouldn't you be enjoying the prom night?" You felt him shrug, lips forming a pout, "my date ditched me." Your mouth fell open at his words, but you quickly closed up, "that is so sad." His eyes found yours and he just smiled, "nah, it's fine. I wasn't interested in her, we just agreed to go with each other since both of us didn't have any dates."

"What's your name?" His eyes widened in disbelief, lips parting slightly, "you don't know me?" You arch your eyebrows, wondering if you were meant to know him, but when he called your name in mild offense, you gulped. "Well of course you wouldn't know me, you seem to be content with that little friend circle of yours to notice anyone else." There was a tinge of disappointment in his voice but you could be wrong, "I'm Sim Jaeyun, or Jake as other's call me."

"Ah, Jake. The golden boy?" He narrowed his eyes at you, "you remember me as a golden boy but not my face?" You smiled sheepishly, hands tightening around his neck to steady yourself, "well you aren't wearing your glasses, your hair is parted, you're not wearing your signature oversized hoodie, and half of your face isn't drowned by a book, so not my fault."

He let out a chuckle at your words, shaking his head, "isn't this like, one of those book moments where I take off my glasses, do my hair, wear a nice outfit and suddenly I'm not invisible anymore?"

"No. You look cute with those glasses, but without them you look like someone who'd steal a crown, flirt his way out of trouble and still get the girl somehow."

"Did you just compare me to Flynn Rider?"

"Well you compared me to Rapunzel."

It was supposed to be nothing, just a kind soul helping you in a time of distress, a one time thing. But somehow, it wasn't. You shared each other's numbers after that, then coffee, then late night walks and the rest is history. His friends became your friends. It was easy being with him, he was the kind of person who never made you second guess his intentions. Always so attentive, always so caring. He made it far too easy to fall, and your heart wasn't built strong enough to resist his softness.

You left for university after high-school graduation. He ran to the airport and hugged you like he wouldn't see you again. You promised each other you'd keep in touch. You did. Well, sort of.

And now, years later, you're back, in a different city than your hometown. You had informed your parents about the job you got at a city more opportunistic than yours, how the pay and standard of living was something you didn't want to compromise. "I'll just be a few hours away, mom. You can visit me whenever you like." That didn't stop a pout forming on your mom's face.

The ringing of your phone pulled you out of your thoughts. You glanced at the screen, Mom, you smiled picking up the phone.

"Hey!" You said, trying to keep your voice steady. The boxes were still unopened, your shoes were still on. "Did you reach safely?" Her voice was laced with concern, and you sighed closing the door of your apartment behind you.

"Yeah, just got in a few minutes back." You replied, sitting on your plastic covered couch. "Okay! Be safe." You nodded even though she couldn't see you, "yeah, yeah. I'll call you or dad if anything happens!" You chuckled, pulling your phone away from your ears, "No don't call us." Your eyes narrowed at her words, feeling slightly offensive, "and here I thought you cared about me."

"I do. But we still live away from you. Call Jake instead, he will run to you in no time." Your eyes widened, and you choked on the air as soon as his name left your mom's mouth, "Jake? Sim Jake? Why would I call him?" You could practically imagine your mom rolling her eyes just by the way a sigh left her lips, "why wouldn't you? Isn't he your best friend?"

"He is, or was...I don't know...I don't want to bother him," you hissed, standing up from the couch and moving towards your bedroom balcony. "You will never be a bother for him," now it was your turn to roll your eyes, "I haven't talked with him in ages. I don't know how he will feel about me returning."

"He will be thrilled." You frowned at your phone as if you were on FaceTime with your mother, "how would you even know?" You heard her mutter something under her breath before she deadpanned, "how do you think we found an apartment for you when we never went to that city?" Oh you were doomed from the beginning.

You were about to whine to her about doing things without your knowledge when your doorbell rang, increasing your heartbeat in the process, "that must be him, I informed him about your arrival too." Great. You hung up the phone and hastily made your way towards your door. Your hand hesitated before turning the knob, for a second you wondered if you'll be able to face him after all this time.

The door opened with a barely there creak, and there he was, Jake. His hair was a little long, shoulders a little broad, but his eyes still held the same softness it did, his lips still curled around the edges with the same warmth. And before you could stop yourself, your feet moved.

Your hands wrapped around his neck, pulling him closer. You felt his breath hitch right against the crook of your neck, followed by a slow, hesitant drag of his hands around your waist to pull you closer. You closed your eyes, burying your head on his shoulder, all it took was one look at him for your feelings to come crashing down at you like water released from a dam, sudden and impossible to stop.

You pulled away from him, barely. He smiled, the same boyish smile that made you realize how deep you had fallen for him. "Hey!" There was a quiet tremble in his voice, almost like he wanted to say more but decided against it. You smiled, "Hi," and it felt like you were back in high school, saying goodbye without ever saying what you actually wanted to.

"Um..." your brows creased a bit as you stepped away from Jake, he smiled awkwardly and moved aside to reveal a girl behind him, holding a few bags in her hands as she fidgeted in her place. "This is Mina," Jake said quickly, "she volunteered to help unpack, I hope you don't mind. We can leave if it's too much for you. I know how much new people overwhelm you."

You looked at Jake for a second before they landed on Mina, her hair tied up in a casual bun, her tank top loose and tucked into her jeans. She looked pretty, the kind of pretty that didn't take much effort to maintain.

She took a step forward, now standing right in front of you and pushed the bags in your hand with a smile on her face, "I hope you're not allergic to Thai food." You blinked, "what?"

She looked at Jake briefly as you took the bags from her hands then back at you, "we bought dinner."

"Oh?" You nodded quickly, stepping aside to let them in, "please come in." You internally winced at how awkward you sounded but you didn't fret over it, you weren't prepared for any of this anyway.

Jake walked into your apartment like it's his second home, even when this wasn't your hometown. Mina followed his lead, eyes roaming around the unopened boxes and bubble wrapped furniture lying around. Jake turned around, smiling at her softly before his eyes found yours, "Mina, this is-"

"I know," she grins, cutting him off, turning her head towards you as you approached them, "you're the best friend. Jake never shuts up about you." Your heart skipped at her words, but you nodded, forcing a smile, "It's nice to meet you."

"I was almost out of the apartment to come here when Mina stopped me," Jake started. Mina rolled her eyes then smiled at you, "I just thought you won't mind an extra hand at helping. I was free, and I understand how much effort moving in requires." Jake shrugged, nudging her by his elbow, "the food was her idea," he smiled.

"That's really sweet of you," you thanked, your eyes darted between them as Mina sighed in relief at your words, at the way she leaned in towards Jake, at the way he didn't seem to notice the action. They looked comfortable beside each other, too comfortable. It was almost like she had been around him long enough to matter.

"Let's get started with unpacking," you nodded your head at Jake, and three of you made your way towards different areas to unpack. You made your way towards the bedroom, while Jake took charge of the living room and Mina headed towards the kitchen. For a while soft music from Jake's playlist echoed throughout your apartment along with occasional hum of Mina's gentle voice whenever any of her favorite songs played.

You didn't pay attention to the time that had passed since you started unpacking but the sound of laughter resonating in your apartment made you step out of your bedroom. Your eyes fell upon your living room, all of the things placed just as you informed Jake to do. It looked beautiful.

You made your way towards the kitchen where the voices came from, steps halting as you saw Mina and Jake laughing together at something stupid, "Jake, there's no such thing as proper technique for opening jars." His eyes trailed over her figure, "there is! It's called 'proper wrist torque,' it is a thing!"

Mina rolled her eyes, swatting his arm, "stop being dramatic, let me do my work!" Jake grinned back like he always did when someone got annoyed with his antics. You hovered near the kitchen door, watching the way they interacted with each other, they looked good together.

"Need help?" You asked, finally stepping in. Jake's smile widened as he looked at you, "yes, Mina thinks I'm lying about the proper wrist torque, tell her about it." Mina giggled before you could say anything further, "he's just flexing because I couldn't open the jar. Don't fret over it." You managed to smile at them, "looks like you guys have it figured already."

After a few hours, you groaned lightly stretching your back after you were done with unpacking and cleaning, "seriously guys," you started smiling at Mina and Jake, "thank you so much for helping with unpacking, it would have taken me forever to do this alone." Mina grinned at your pouty expression and made her way towards you, slinging her arm around your shoulders, "I know right! Call me whenever you want any help, I'm so glad to have a girlfriend around me," she squealed excitedly but looked at you expectantly at the last sentence.

"I'm glad to have you around too, Mina." Her face lit up at your words and she beamed at Jake, "I made a new friend!" You couldn't help the smile forming on your face at her excited state and Jake shook his head looking at both of you softly. "I'll go get some ice-cream for all of us after I throw this trash out, you guys wrap everything up and reheat the food in the meantime." Both of you nodded at Jake, bidding him goodbye and continuing your work in silence.

You and Mina slouched against your couch after finishing your wrap up, you played a random movie on your TV as you waited for Jake to come back. You sighed, feeling exhaustion take over you after a long day of travel and moving in. Mina looked at you from where she was sitting beside you and smiled, extending her hand towards you and holding your wrist gently, "you okay?"

Her concerned voice got you out of your thoughts and you smiled at her, albeit a weak one, "yeah, just tired." She hummed, nodding her head in understanding. A couple of minutes passed by in silence, none of you making a move to fill the empty void then suddenly her voice echoed in your ears, "you know he always talks about you, and I got really curious because of him."

You glanced at her, "Jake?" She nodded, releasing her hold on your wrist and tucking her knees up, "yes, he really missed you while you were away." You heart tugged at her words but you masked it with a laugh, "hmm he's clingy like that." She shook her head, smiling down at her lap but didn't correct you because it was the truth. Jake was clingy, but not with everyone, then her eyes landed on you as you bit your lips, a knowing smile creeping up on her face, "that's Jake for you."

The doorbell rang just as you were done reheating the food, "I'll open it!" Mina yelled out before making her way towards the door. "Come on, I'm hungry and I need sleep too," you heard Jake yell as he made his way towards the dinning table in the kitchen, Mina following suit. Three of you ate in silence, finally realizing how hungry you actually were. Jake was scrolling through his spotify playlist after berating both your and Mina's taste in music.

Mina reached over towards Jake's and stole a piece from his plate. Jake didn't blink, didn't even react as he kept his eyes on his phone. "That was mine," He deadpan as he glanced at Mina briefly. "You'll survive," she shot back, chewing on her food like it was just another day, like they have done this before, like they have their own rhythm.

Mina turned towards you as all of you finished eating your meals, "I hope today wasn't awkward for you, I really enjoyed your company." Your eyes fell upon Jake who was looking at Mina then you smiled at her, "It's fine really. Thank you for the food and your help. I truly appreciate it." She turned towards Jake and put her head on his shoulder as she sighed in relief at your words.

You smiled at Jake but your heart stuttered, you wanted to ask 'are you two dating?' but the words got stuck between your throat. Instead you just bid them goodnight and watch them get inside the car and drive off.

"It's been a while, I missed you so much," Jungwon's arms circled around your shoulders as soon as he and Jake arrived at your apartment. You laughed, sliding your arms around his waist nonetheless, "I missed you too." He sat on your couch as Jake made his way towards your kitchen to grab some drinks and you sat beside Jungwon asking about his life updates.

"I heard from Jake you'll be moving away to Japan for a while?" Jungwon nodded his head, hands reaching out to grab the drink Jake bought. "I just came and you're going," you pouted, Jake chuckled from your other side, head leaning on your shoulder to look at Jungwon. You felt a quiet thrill bloom inside your chest and Jungwon gave you a cheeky smile before Jake spoke, "It's okay, it will be for 3-4 months, then we can have our little friend group back."

"And Mina too," Jungwon added, a small smile gracing up on his lips, "have you met Mina yet?" You nodded, "she helped me with the unpacking and also bought me food, I should bring something for her as a thank you." Jake handed you the drink, your fingers brushing against his as you took it from him. "Have you met Heeseung?" Your eyes narrowed at Jungwon, confusion dawning on your face, "isn't he studying law in London?"

"No, he's here. He wanted to do business instead so he left and came here." You hummed, placing your drink down on the table, "you didn't tell me about him." You turned towards Jake after you pulled away from him and he just shrugged like it wasn't a big deal, "you never asked." Jungwon snickered as you glared at Jake, feeling his heart filled with warmth at the familiar scene playing in front of him, "I missed you two together so bad."

You smiled at Jungwon, ruffling his hair, "and I missed you." Jungwon pouted, fixing his hair. "I need to leave, I've to pick up Mina from her work," your gaze followed Jake as he grabbed his things, a weird coil building inside your stomach at the thought of him picking her up from the work. "Jake!" Jungwon called out as Jake opened the door to go out, he spun back, raising his eyebrows at the younger one, "I parceled the documents which Mina wanted on your address, tell me when she'll get it."

Jake nodded his head and then the door shut behind him, "Mina's documents?" You questioned, turning in your seat to face Jungwon, "why didn't you just parcel it to Mina's house?" He tilted his head in confusion, "because they live together." You could feel your heart stop as soon as those words left Jungwon's mouth, "live together?" He hummed in response, "yes, didn't Jake tell you?" No he didn't, you wanted to say instead you shook your head and smiled, "the topic never came up." That explained the closeness.

You sat on your bed, looking at the time, 06:30 PM. Jake had called you when you were on your lunch break that he wanted to invite you for dinner and after trying to dodge his invitation a couple of times, you reluctantly agreed. You sighed, contemplating whether it will be a good idea or not but you found yourself getting ready to go to his apartment.

It was past 07:00 PM when you made your way towards his apartment complex, you decided to walk since he lived only a few blocks away. The evening sky had darkened, streetlights lightening up the path you walked on. You sighed when you spotted the name of the apartment building Jake had mentioned, your eyes unintentionally fell upon the balcony with floor length window, with lights low and golden, you spotted Jake through the open blind and your steps flattered.

You watched as Jake sat on the chair near the window, a slight wince adorning his face. Hoodie sleeves pushed up and hair slightly messy. Mina came up and sat in front of him, on the floor, cross legged, a small box in her hand. She reached up to take one of Jake's hands in hers, opening the box and taking out some ointment and bandages.

You swallow the lump forming in your throat as you stood there and watch as Mina carefully applied the bandage and flick his forehead when he leaned down. You couldn't hear their conversation but you saw Jake smiling at Mina who was pouting. Jake reached forward to flick her forehead back but she caught his hand midair. She said something which made Jake shake his head and lean away, inspecting his hand.

Mina gently took his hand in hers, she talked about something you couldn't decipher and Jake just watched her with his soft eyes. You froze in your spot, feeling like you've seen something you shouldn't have, something intimate. You felt like you should turn around, almost. But then you took a deep breath and made your way towards their apartment.

"Finally, we have been waiting for you." Mina welcomed wrapping her arms around, as soon as you took off your jacket and hung it on the hanger. She took the bag from your hand and made her way inside their kitchen, running past Jake who made his way towards the living room. You slipped off your shoes, smiling at him, "Hey!" You started making your ways towards the couch.

Jake stepped forward, his arms sliding across your waist to pull you closer and dip his head on your shoulder. You inhaled sharply before easing into his hold and sliding your hands across his shoulders. "Hey..." you heard him breathe out, voice low enough for your ears only. He let go of you with a lopsided smile, holding your hand in his as he dragged you towards the couch.

"What happened to your hand?" You questioned as you sat on one side of the couch, beside Jake. His eyes travelled towards his now bandaged hand, "he cut it while helping me with the dinner, he's so irresponsible." Mina sat on the other side of Jake, and he rolled his eyes but leaned back on the couch. "You should be careful," you frowned and Jake slid his hand behind your shoulders to rest on the couch. "It's fine, not that deep."

Mina leaned towards Jake, her hand reaching out to hold his injured one, examining if it was properly bandaged. "You don't have to keep doing that," Jake said, amusement laced in his voice as he watched her. "You don't take care of yourself properly," she mumbled, and your chest tightened at her words.

"Um..you guys start the movie, I need to make a call, be right back." You watched as Mina went inside the bedroom, the door opened wide enough for you to spot Jake's favorite artist's poster plastered across his walls, then it closed behind her. You sighed, watching her be so comfortable around Jake, being so comfortable about using his belongings as if they were hers, it almost reminded you of your younger self when you and Jake were close enough to use each other's things without any care. It suddenly dawned upon you how many things you missed while being away from him.

Your gaze was still fixed on Jake's bedroom door, lost in thought when you felt his hand gently cup your cheek. He turned your face towards him, his movements gentle but sure, silently asking for your attention. "You good? Need something?" Your words got lost in your mouth as you looked into his eyes, he tilted his head, waiting for you to say something but his hand felt so warm against your cheek that you found yourself leaning into it.

Jake smiled, his hand moving from your cheek to your shoulder to pull you closer, "guess your work tired you out," you hummed, still unable to form any words. He then slid his fingers in yours, intertwining them together before giving your hand a gentle squeeze. Mina came back after sometime, slumping against the couch before sighing and leaning her head on his shoulder.

He adjusted his position so she could lean into him properly, his hand still holding yours but suddenly you felt suffocating. Half way through the movie, Mina whispered something to Jake and he laughed, shaking his head as he whispered something back. You could hear them if you focused enough but you decided otherwise. It felt more like trespassing than eavesdropping. Jake's hand left yours to offer you some popcorn, your fingers brushed against his as he passed you the bowl but you pulled back, eyes trained on the movie playing in front of you.

"Jake help me with serving the dinner," Mina requested as she made her way towards the kitchen. Jake followed soon, but you stayed behind, eyes still focused on the TV. You could hear them from the living room, their voices low, you could hear the way Mina complained about something, followed by his voice. Mina laughed after that, loud and clear and you could hear Jake shushing her as he too laughed with her.

You heard the clink of dishes being placed on the counter, you turned your head to see if they were done, just to see Jake gently patting her head as he passed by her, and how she smiled up at him like it's the easiest thing in the world. You reminded yourself that it shouldn't hurt, but it did. It really, really did. And you weren't sure what to do with your feelings.

The rest of the hours pass by in blurry haze, your eyes fall upon the clock, "oh? It's getting late. I should head back." You felt Mina grab your hand when you tried to get up from your seat, "stay the night, I like having you around, it's weekend anyway." Your eyes fell upon Jake who leaned against the doorframe, "stay?" You couldn't bring yourself to reject their offer when both of them looked at you with the same puppy eyes.

"Let me get something comfortable for you to wear," Mina grinned as she disappeared inside her room. Jake tapped your shoulder, "thank you for staying, Mina keeps on talking about you. I think you'd get along well since you're so alike." You nodded, "I feel so too, it will take some time but I'll get used to her." He smiled, leaning his hand on your shoulder. "Does she treat you right?" You couldn't help but ask, you heard Jake hum, "yes she does, I never thought I'd say this but we work well somehow."

You forced yourself to smile, Mina came out of her room just to drag you inside it, not before yelling, "goodnight Jake, it's girls night now." She gave you a hoodie and shorts and pointed towards the bathroom attached to her room. You cleaned yourself up, Mina following suit, while she used the bathroom, you changed your clothes.

Mina came out of the bathroom, now changed into her own pajamas, "this hoodie is a bit too oversized for you, don't you think?" You questioned, laughing at the way it covered your hands and reached your mid-thigh as you climbed her bed. Mina laughed with you and made her way to sit beside you, "it looks good on you." You shook your head, dangling the sweater paws in the air and Mina leaned on your shoulder laughing at your actions, "It's Jake's actually, that's why it's oversized."

You froze, "It's Jake's?" She nodded, her smile flattering a bit, "why? Is that an issue?" You shook your head, your brows creasing, "that wouldn't be an issue with you right?" She tilted her head in confusion and your heart squeezed at the familiar action, "no? It's not an issue with me." You sighed, if she didn't have an issue then you weren't going to have any issue.

"Wait!" Mina squealed, reaching towards the nightstand as you pulled up the covers to sleep. "What? You okay?" You asked, feeling concerned. She turned towards you, showing her phone, "I don't have your number or a picture for the contact pic, let me snap it real quick, you look so pretty right now." Your eyes widened as she panned the camera towards you, leaning towards her vanity mirror to check yourself, you smooth down your hair and adjusted the hoodie.

"Smile for me please?" She requested in a sing-song voice and you couldn't help but smile genuinely as she clicked a few pictures as you posed. "Let me take your pictures too," you reached for your phone and clicked some of her photos. "Okay! Let's take some together," you grinned, taking selfies with different poses and laughing obnoxiously at them.

You look at her as she saved your number and the contact pic, her hair a bit messy with all the movements, but a radiant smile plastered on her face as she proudly showed you the contact. And as you watch her, you realise Mina is too good, too perfect. You couldn't bring yourself to find a single flaw. Maybe Jake was indeed right when he said they both work together very well.

You woke up, rubbing the sleep from your eyes. Mina's side of bed was empty, you neatly made her bed and went inside the bathroom to get freshened up. You brushed your teeth and took a quick shower before slipping into your own clothes. You neared the door of her bedroom when you heard hushed voices coming from the living room.

"You could've just told me about it, Mina." Jake's voice echoed, "it's not that simple!" Mina's voice snapped back. "This is not about you Jake- everything isn't that simple!" There's a silence followed by Mina's words. You opened the door just as Jake turned around and went inside his room, slamming the door shut and Mina looked at you, a concerned expression plastered on her face.

"You okay?" You questioned, stepping towards her and pulling her into a hug. You felt her stiffen under your hold but then she relaxed, hugging you back. "Yeah, I am." You frowned, "did you two fight?" She pulled away shaking her head, "he's just concerned." She smiled, eyes trailing towards Jake's door, "I think he needs someone to talk to, he isolates himself when he gets like this. I need to go out for a bit. It's urgent. Please talk to him." You nodded your head at her and watched her rush out of the door.

You stood outside Jake's room for a second longer than you should have, hand curled into a loose fist, your knuckles ready to knock. You took a deep breath and knocked. The silence followed made you wonder if he'll even open the door. "What?" You could hear the bite in his voice and for a moment it made you stutter but then you answered, "Jake, it's me." There's a faint ruffle of movements from the other side and then the door's yanked opened and you find Jake looking at you, wide eyed. "Can I come inside?"

Jake nodded, stepping aside to let you in. You stepped in quietly, heart in your throat. He didn't say anything as he made his way towards his bed and sat. You sat on his desk chair, eyes raking over his messy hair as if he had been running his hands through it. "You and Mina....are you okay?" You started carefully and he let out a short laugh, "I don't know." You made your way towards his bed to sit down on the floor in front of him, "Mina said you might need someone to talk to."

"She said that?" He looked at where you were sitting, you nodded. "Of course she did." You sighed, feeling frustration radiate off of him, "I don't really know why you guys are fighting but it will get better." He pulled his hair, groaning, "I hope so." You didn't make any other attempt to talk with him, so you both sat there in silence for a while. "Come sit beside me," he finally said, patting the space beside him. You hesitated for a moment before carefully sitting beside him.

"Can we just stay like this for a while?" He asked, shifting in his place before he placed his head on your shoulder. You took a deep breath and your heart beat stuttered at his actions, he's close, he's too close for your heart to not ache with longing. You don't dare to say anything, just reach out to hold his injured hand in yours, "it will get better, I'm here."

"You good?" You were bought back from your thoughts when your coworker Jay called your name. You nodded your head back as you handed him the documents which he wanted. He gave you another look, eyebrows creasing, "you're spacing a lot, are you still not used to the office life here?" You smiled at him, shaking your head, "I love working here, there's just something on my mind."

He tapped his finger on his chin as he swirled in his chair beside you, "if you feel comfortable, you can share it with me, you're the only person here that I like to hang around with," you laughed but agreed with him. Jay joined a few months before you did and the two of you are the only people of your age, making him instantly take a liking to you. "Okay, maybe you could help," you thought out loud and he waited patiently.

"So, there's this boy-"

"A boy? Interesting." You looked at him from the corner of your eyes, "don't interrupt me." He put his hands up in surrender, then leaned up to check if any higher ups were taking a round, "tell me." You sighed, leaning against your chair, "I have feelings for this guy I've been friends with, I went out of the country for university and now that I'm back, he already has someone."

"That's-" he looks at you briefly before averting his eyes somewhere else, trying to find the right words to say, "that's very sad, are you trying to move on?" You pout at him as you lean against your desk, "I don't know, I thought my feelings for him vanished but it didn't. And they look so good together, they even live together." Jay patted your back in an attempt to console you, "it will be alright." You gently hit your head against the desk, "will it really be alright?"

Jay gave you a solemn smile, "with time it gets better." You sighed, mind swirling with everything that had happened ever since you came back, "they had a fight but then next day everything was fine between them. I think they patched things up, I just want him to be happy." You wondered if not saying anything at all will ever do you any good but when Jake called you next day to inform that everything is settled between them you stopped yourself from saying anything further. "Whatever, Mina said she'll help me with my groceries so I need to go."

You bid Jay goodbye and made your way towards the store Mina had sent the address to, you remember her gushing about them selling the groceries more fresher than other stores. You smiled, waving your hand as you called out her name, she turned around, running towards you and engulfing you in a hug. "Okay let's shop." You followed her lead, "Mina," you called out as both of you were picking up items listed on your phone, she hummed in response, "can I ask you something?"

"Yes, ask me anything." She grinned as she pushed the cart towards the cash counter when her phone lit up with multiple notifications. "You and Jake," you collected your groceries in the bag, "how long have you been together?" Mina hurriedly replied before placing her phone back in her pocket, "hmm? almost 3 years." You nod, taking the bags from the counter and make your way towards your car. "Three years is a long time, so even if you guys do fight, it ends up fine right?"

She glanced at you, helping you keep the bag in the backseat of your car, "I mean yes, it isn't like this is our first fight. We handle it very well." You hum in acknowledgement, three years, no wonder they get along so well. Mina nudged you playfully as you got lost in your head, "you good?" You laugh with all your teeth, "totally." Mina doesn't question you further, both of you sit inside your car and you drive off to drop Mina before going home.

You felt your phone ring when you were about to go to sleep, switching the lamp on, you answered the call, "Jake?" You heard some mixed voices from the other side before it got silent, "why didn't you take me with you for grocery shopping?" You frowned as you heard Jake whine, "she suggested me, I would've went with you if you suggested first."

"Mina this is not fair, you are literally plotting to replace me from her life." You heard Jake accuse and Mina shot back, "I'm not doing that, don't accuse me of things I didn't do." You laughed at their bickering but stopped when you heard Mina's phone ringing followed by a complete silence. "You need to spend time with me too!"

"Yes, Jake. I will, where did Mina go?" You could picture Jake pouting as he let out a huff, "I don't know, she's always on her phone these days, barely spends time with me." You nodded, your mind drifting towards the countless times Mina's phone rang. You figured it wouldn't be Jake since he was working overtime, that made you question who's taking Mina's attention so much.

"It's okay," you consoled, talking with him for a few more minutes and hung up. It was a long week ahead but you were looking forward to the weekend, maybe you'd be able to relax a bit and explore the city more. Your phone buzzed with a notification and you looked at the screen to see a text message from Mina. 'Don't mind him, he's just dramatic. I won't mind ditching him for you.' You laughed before sending her a reply and drifting off to sleep.

"Jay, don't worry about it. You'll do great," you were on a call with Jay, trying to encourage him for his upcoming presentation. "Figured you'd say this but you were just like this last week when it was your turn." You sighed, pinching the bridge of your nose, "yes that's exactly why I'm telling you not to worry. The clients are very easy going, I have worked with them on a short project." Jay sighed, probably pacing around his room, "okay, I believe you." You smiled, "good, now go to sleep."

You hung up the call and changed into an oversized t-shirt and shorts when you heard it, a faint tap. You frown, halting your actions, then you hear it again, a little bit clearer this time, a little sharper. Your stomach flips when you realise the sounds are coming from the window, you gulped, slowly making your way towards it when you hear another tap. You wipe the sweat formed on your hand on your shorts and move aside the curtain to check.

And there he is. Jake. Standing below your window like it's not a big deal. You open the window, disbelief written all over your face. He smiled up at you before yelling, "Rapunzel, let your hair down." You closed your eyes to prevent saying anything harsh, your mind still hazy with confusion, "I'm not letting my hair down, what are you even trying to do?" He laughed at your words, and you found yourself staring at him, with hoodie half-zipped, hair messy due to wind, one hand still clutching a small pebble in his hand but he's grinning like he had won a lottery.

"Your window is closer than your phone, I tried calling you but it kept saying you were busy." You stared at him, "it's almost midnight." He nodded, "I couldn't sleep." You shut your mouth after that, knowing all too well how he used to reach out to you whenever he had a struggle sleeping. And just as you were about to yell at him that you'll unlock the door, he started climbing.

"Wait-Jake? No! What the hell are you trying to do?" He gripped the drain pipe with one hand as his other helped in hoisting himself up, "will you chill?" He muttered, swinging one leg over the windowsill and slipping into your room with a soft thud. You stepped back instinctively, "are you being serious?" You crossed your arms across your chest, "This isn't high school, I live alone now, why would you climb through my window?"

He dusted his hands, slipping his shoes off and running off to keep them on the shoe cabinet near the entrance. He comes back, taking a look at your room like he hasn't seen it before. "Nice bed sheet," he smirked, clearly avoiding answering your previous question. "Nice trespassing," you retorted, which made him laugh. He shrugged his shoulders, slipping off his hoodie, now wearing only a t-shirt, he made his way towards your bed and sat leaning against the headboard, like it's his.

"I didn't want to be alone," he confessed, his voice quieter than before, "this was the only place I could think of to come, didn't know where else to go." Your heart tugged at the way his shoulders dropped as he talked, you nodded your head as you sat on the edge of your bed, "where's Mina?" He looked at you, his lips pouting a bit, "she's out I guess, told me she'd be busy."

Jake didn't say anything for a while, just removed his watch, wallet and phone and kept it on your nightstand and laid down on your bed. You stayed where you were, now cross legged as you sat there and watched him without really meaning to. "Did you ever think about me when you were away?" He questioned, his voice low. You glanced at him before focusing your gaze on your lap, "always."

He looked at you, eyes following the way your hands fidgeted, "Did you ever think about us?" You tilt your head up and he was already looking at you, "of course I did. You're my best friend, without you it felt a bit empty." He shifted in his place, smiling at your words, "it's kind of wild right, how we managed to live our lives without each other, all the time that passed, all the chances we missed."

You don't answer him, too scared that your voice may betray you, too scared that your feelings would be overwhelmed if you dwell on that topic any more. Jake exhaled a deep breath, slowly reaching his hand towards you, fingers open, palm up. "Come here." Your heart stuttered, but you didn't say anything. You don't ask why, you force yourself to not overthink about it or try to find meaning behind his actions. You just take his hand, get up and lie down beside him, being careful of the distance. Almost touching, always almost.

Jake cleared his throat, and you huff out a breath, staring at the ceiling. "Still can't sleep?" You ask, head turning towards him as he keeps on staring at the ceiling. "Not really," Jake mumbled, turning his body towards you. "What are you thinking about?" You mumbled, not daring to ruin the moment, he stayed quiet for a second, "nothing in particular, just how things have been lately." You nod, looking away, heart hammering in your chest as you force yourself to sleep.

You're not sure why you asked Mina to meet today, but here she is, sitting in front of you in a cozy cafe she mentioned she wanted to take you to. You watch her sipping her drink, eyes focused on the foam, smiling in a way someone does when their mind is floating in the cloud. "Can I share something with you?" Mina's voice brought you back from your thoughts. "Hm? Tell me," you smiled, sipping on your coffee as you waited for her.

"Heeseung asked me if I wanted to go to the open mic tonight," she started, glancing at you occasionally, "have you met Heeseung yet?" You shook your head no, "I met him in the passing, didn't get a proper chance to talk to him." Mina hummed, "do you think I should go?" You tilt your head, thinking about it, "is Jake going with you?"

"No, he is working overtime yet again. He wouldn't be interested anyway." You hummed, leaning your head on your palm, "then you should go." She smiled at you, a little giddy, a little nervous, "do you remember the dress I wore at Jungwon's party? The red one?" You nodded your head, "yeah, I remember. You looked great in that." Mina sat up straight, placing both her hands on the table, "you think so?" She giggled then her phone's notification went off and you frowned.

"Jake's really been on the edge lately..." Mina started, making you confused, "why?" You questioned. "He's been kind of very protective of me lately," she looked out the cafe as if she's thinking about something, "I think he is worried." You sit straight, clearing your throat, "why would he be worried? Is everything fine between you two?" She sipped her drink, "everything is fine between us, I guess he doesn't want me to get hurt."

You don't reply to her, focusing all of your attention on finishing your drink. Of course Jake would be protective of her, he has every right to. Maybe he thinks with you in the picture Mina might get hurt because both of you share past memories which she wasn't a part of. You swallow the lump in your throat, "are you planning on going to that music fest you were gushing about?" And just like that the topic of the conversation shifted.

You were excited to spend your Friday night watching reruns of your favorite show. You showered, changing into your pajamas and arranging your pillows to maximise your comfort when your phone rang, disrupting your peace. You groan, looking at the screen. Jake. "What are you doing?" You frowned before answering, "nothing, why?" There was a beat of silence before he spoke again, "can you come over?"

"Mina told me you both were planning on going out to eat, why are you calling me?" You heard Jake sigh dramatically, "can't I call my best friend to hangout with?" You rolled your eyes but stood up to get dressed regardless, "I'll be there in few." You hung up the call, getting ready to go to him. You internally thanked yourself that you didn't cook anything.

You reached his apartment, ringing the doorbell, you waited for him. Jake opened the door, and you stepped in, frowning a bit when he didn't step aside. His hands reached up to take your bag off your shoulder and help you with your jacket. You slipped off your shoes as he hung your jacket, "why's your apartment so dark?" You questioned and instead of answering, he stepped closer, embracing you in his arms. Your arms circled around his neck despite confusion creeping up on you because of his actions.

He held your hand and made his way towards his bedroom, and you followed him mindlessly. He left your hand as he opened the door of his balcony and your steps halted. "Jake-" you couldn't bring yourself to continue what you were about to say. In front of you was a cozy dinner date set up, with candles and roses perched upon the table. Fairy lighting was hanging up from the ceiling, casting a warm glow on your face.

You swallowed, eyes roaming around the small set up before they landed on Jake, "where's Mina?" You asked, noticing her absence in the apartment. Jake's smile flattered but he masked it just a quickly, "she's busy, something came up so she isn't here." You nodded, making your way towards the set up as he pulled out a chair for you. He had planned a date with Mina but since she couldn't make it, he called you. Your heart tightened at the thought but you understood. With the amount of effort and money spent on this, you'd have done the same.

Both of you ate the dinner in silence aside from occasionally discussing how amazing the food was. And you found your thoughts drifting off to how lucky Mina is to be able to experience this with him. But you wondered what could be more important than spending time with your boyfriend on a weekend.

You offered to do the dishes while Jake cleaned the table, "Jake, there's stain on my shirt, can you give me a clean shirt?" Jake threw one of his t-shirt at you when you made your way towards his bathroom to get changed. "Put your shirt in the laundry, I'll return it to you tomorrow," Jake yelled as you closed the door behind you.

You changed into his t-shirt, the scent of his detergent along with a quiet musky smell, mixed with something sweet but so Jake engulfed you. You sighed, feeling your heartbeat quickened but you made your way out of his bathroom and towards their washing machine. You threw your shirt in the basket, crouching down to pick up a grey hoodie that fell off.

The strong scent of cedarwood and leather hit your nose, a contrast to what you were used to smelling around Jake and Mina. You frowned but tossed the hoodie back inside the basket. You made your way towards the living room where Jake was, "did you change your perfume? Or use an alternate one?" You asked, leaning against the back of the couch.

"No? I only use the one which I'm wearing right now," you hummed, heading swirling with confusion, "why?" Jake asked as he looked at you. "Nothing. Just asking," you shrugged, "let's watch a movie?" He nodded, selecting the movie of your choice as he sat beside you. Hours passed by, the clock struck past 12, the ending credits rolled out but Mina still didn't show up.

"I think I should go," Jake turned around to protest when the door clicked open, "thanks for having me today Jake, but I need to run some errand tomorrow early morning, it will be better if I'll go." You made your way towards the door to see Mina slipping off her heels, still in her work attire. "Hi babe!" She squealed as soon as she spotted you. You smiled, greeting her in return, then she made her way towards the living room before turning back to you, "had fun on your little date?" She giggled and you followed her inside the kitchen, leaving Jake sitting alone in the living room.

"Where were you?" You asked and she put the glass of water on the counter, "working, you know how bosses can be." She pouted, her shoulders slouched. You nodded your head, "I was just heading out, good night and rest well okay?" She nodded, opening her arms for you to hug and you chuckled, stepping closer to engulf her in a hug. "Good night babe," she mumbled, nuzzling her head at the crook of your neck. As soon as her hands wrapped around you, the strong cedarwood smell mixed with leather hit you again and you stiffened in her hold.

"Mina," you called out, pulling a bit away from her, "were you working late alone?" She shook her head, "yes, that's the reason it took so much time to finish." You took a deep breath, stepping away from her, "I see, I'll meet you tomorrow." You bid Jake goodbye and made your way out of their apartment before your mind ate you up again, trying to read into things.

You made your way out of the elevator of your apartment after a hectic day at work, grimacing when you opened the door just thinking about making dinner. You came out of the shower, still feeling the tiredness seeping deep in your bones, you decided making ramyeon would be the best option. Just as you were about to head to the kitchen, your phone rang.

"Open the window, Rapunzel." Your eyes widened as you rushed to open the window and lo and behold, there he was, balancing himself and giving you a shit eating grin as soon as his feet landed on your bedroom. "Why can't you knock on my door like a normal person?" You pushed his shoulder, "where's the fun in that? Plus I bought food, let's eat." Your eyes finally landed on the bag of food in his hands, "how did you even manage to climb up with this in your hand?"

You followed him towards your kitchen, and started plating the door as he went ahead to slip off his shoes and clean himself up. "You're been coming here way too much," you squint your eyes at Jake who just scratched the back of his head, laughing awkwardly, "why? Do you not like my company?" He was amused as both of you sat down to eat, "it's not that, earlier you and Mina always visited together, I thought you both would continue to do so, it's slightly surprising she isn't around as much as she used to."

Jake's smile flattered a bit, but he shook his head. "She's too busy these days, things are not how they used to be," then his eyes found yours, "you don't find me annoying right? I can totally stop coming here if you want more alone time." Your chest tightens at his words and you reach out to gently squeeze his hand in yours, "why would you say that? If I did find you annoying, you'd be the first person to read into my actions."

Jake laughed, nodding in agreement, because yes, he was someone who could read you the easiest and that's why he was confused as to why you were behaving so distantly with him than you used to, almost like you were slipping away. "My door's always open for you, Jake." He looked at you for a second before his hand turned up to hold yours, "I know."

You sighed as both of you continued to eat the dinner in silence, Mina was spending less time in their apartment, she always bailed out of the plans last minute leaving you and Jake alone. Always so busy, always texting on her phone, you wondered if there was someone who was occupying her time. And somehow you couldn't forget about the scent of different cologne on that grey hoodie and on Mina when you had dinner with Jake, that night.

It was late at night, you had completed all of your chores and were snuggled up on your bed. The series you've been meaning to watch played in front of you, sighing you looked at the time then back towards your laptop screen. "What am I waiting for?" You wondered out loud as you focused your attention back on the screen. Your eyes kept on drifting towards your phone, groaning you closed the laptop and decided to sleep instead.

It was the weekend, after all these months you finally got the time to have a weekend all to yourself, without Jake, without Mina, without Jay, just you. But somewhere along the way, you started getting used to having them around, especially on weekends. You had no idea where Mina was, and Jake had informed you he'd be out with his coworkers. You huffed a breath, pulling the covers over your head and closing your eyes.

The shrill of your callertune in the otherwise silent room woke you up from your slumber, patting your bed to find your phone, you opened one eye to realize it was Jake. You sat up, looking at the time, it was way almost midnight. You picked up the phone, voice still groggy from the sleep, "hello? Jake?" You called out, you could hear faint music coming from the background yet no one spoke then just as you decided to call his name once again, a voice rang, "um hi, this is Sunoo, Jake's coworker."

"Sunoo? Um where's Jake?" You could hear rustling from the other end, followed by a loud huff and then Sunoo's voice spoke, "Jake's passed out beside me, can you pick him up? I'll send you the location." You got up from your bed, already rummaging through your closet for your jeans and t-shirt, "Passed out? Gosh, why does he drink so much when he knows he can't handle it. I'll be there as soon as possible, send me the location. Thank you." You hung up the phone, grabbing your keys to get down into your car and your phone screen lit up with a text message from Jake.

You reached the location, eyes wandering around to find Jake and his friends. You called Jake's phone to inform Sunoo about your arrival and he yelled your name when he spotted you near the entrance. "Geez, he isn't even sitting straight," you complained as Sunoo gave you Jake's phone and helped you to carry him till your car. "I tried calling Mina, but she wasn't picking up her phone so I called you instead. I'm sorry if I ruined your night but my house is too far to take him with me."

"It's okay, Sunoo. I'll handle him. Thanks for taking care of him for the meantime. I wasn't really doing anything so it's fine with me," you gave his shoulder a small squeeze in reassurance and got inside the car to drive Jake back to his apartment. You glanced at him as he slept on the passenger's seat, his brows furrowed as if he'd been stressed about something. You sighed, pulling up inside his parking lot.

"Jake! Wake up," you shook him as you opened his side of the door, "I can't carry you till your apartment, you need to at least be awake, come on." You took off his seatbelt, and he stirred a bit. You sighed in relief and pulled him out of the car, locking it behind you. He draped his hand on your shoulder, leaning all of his weight on you, which made you stumble a bit. "Give me strength!" You muttered under your breath as one of your hands slid across his waist to help him walk.

The walk from parking lot to elevator and then from elevator till his apartment door was more difficult than you imagined. But you managed anyway, you unlocked the door, internally congratulating yourself for being smart enough to get his keys before you pulled him out of the car. The apartment was dark, with no sign of life. You switched it on and dragged Jake towards his bedroom.

"Wow, that was one hell of a struggle," you wiped the sweat off of your forehead after you laid him on his bed. You slipped off his shoes and put in the box where he keeps his collection, took off his jacket and accessories he wore and pulled the covers on him. Hesitantly, you leaned in, lifting your hand to his forehead, fingers brushing along the crease between his brows, like you could smooth it out, like you could understand the reason behind it. He looked so far away, and you weren’t sure if you were allowed to reach him.

You pulled back, getting up from the bed to leave his apartment. "Where are you going?" Your steps halted and you turned around, "to Mina's room?" You mumbled to yourself, confused, you stepped forward, checking if he was sleep-talking. You raised your eyebrows as his half lidded eyes stared back at you, "I thought you were asleep." Jake grinned lazily before a frown adorned his features, "why do you always leave me?" He sat up, eyes glossy and his cheeks flushed.

"Huh?" You sat in front of him as a tear slipped from his, your hand reached up to wipe it and he leaned into it. He sighed, lips trembling, "things are not how they used to be." Your breath hitched as you remembered him saying those exact words when both of you ate dinner a few weeks ago. They weren't for you, he said those words for Mina. Your eyes landed on his intoxicated self, eyes closed as he nuzzled closer to your hand. He wasn't talking to you, he was thinking about Mina instead.

You pulled away, hands trembling as you clutched your chest to ease the pain. Jake frowned as soon as you pulled away, he reached up, grabbing your neck to pull you closer, "you're doing it again, did I do something wrong? Did I hurt you baby?" Your breath hitched, hands falling on his chest to support yourself. Your nose brushed against his and the smell of alcohol brought you back to your senses. "Jake, you're drunk, what are you doing?"

He whined, tilting his head and leaning closer to trail his lips against your jaw. "I'm not drunk," he sighed against your skin, placing a kiss on your jaw. You closed your eyes, biting your lips and pushed him a little. "Jake please," your voice stuttered as he trailed kisses down your neck, the hand on your neck making your head tilt up and pull at your shirt's collar, another sliding across your waist to pull you closer.

"Do you even realise how much I missed you?" He murmured against your shoulder before sucking on it. "I love you but you keep on pushing me away," he licked the spot which now adorned a purple bruise. You closed your eyes, I love you he said, yet he didn't have you in his mind. His hand slides down to tug at your shirt's button to get more access to your skin, fingers working efficiently to yank it open. "Jake, no!" Your eyes opened in shock and you grabbed his hands, standing up hurriedly to leave his room. You entered his kitchen, switched on the lights and opened his refrigerator to find something to drink.

"I'm too sober for this shit," you mumbled, finding a few bottles of soju, grabbing one and opening it to chug it down. The liquid spilled off your mouth as you drank and it slid down your chest, staining your disheveled shirt. You put the now empty bottle in the trash bin, wiping the soju off your chin. You leaned against the counter, trying to shake off the ghost of Jake's lips on your skin. You made your way towards Mina's room, deciding to at least create distance between you and Jake since you didn't want to leave him alone in the apartment fully intoxicated.

Your steps flattered as you reached for the doorknob of Mina's room, vision titling due to your careless movements. One hand gripped the cool metal while the other reached up to steady the dizziness clouding your head. You barely managed to take a breath when you felt a hand grab your shoulder to turn you around and push you against the door. Your hand slid off the knob, breath shallow as you stared up at Jake, pulse buzzing inside your veins.

The cold wood pressed up against your spine as Jake closed the distance between your bodies, one hand sliding up to the wall beside your head, the other pressing against your stomach just to drag them towards your side. You winced slightly when his fingers dug in your skin, he leaned down, pressing a gentle kiss on your cheek. His head dropped on your shoulder, and you heard a quiet whimper escape his lips before his body started trembling against yours as he sobbed.

"I'm so sorry," he cried, hands clutching the fabric of your shirt, "Jake? Why are you crying?" You questioned as you rubbed his back to console him. "I don't know where I went wrong," your stomach churned with the way his voice cracked. He pulled away and you wiped the tears that flowed down his cheeks. His hands lifted up to cup your face, cheeks flushed red and eyes glassy as he looked at you. "My baby," he whispered, dipping his head low to capture your lips in between his.

You gasp against his lips, and he took it as an opportunity to deepen the kiss, tilting his head to the side. Your hands grab his shoulders, to support yourself or to push him away, you can't figure out because your brain isn't cooperating with your body. The soju you drank hums low in your veins, your limbs feeling heavier and your thoughts lighter.

He pulled away to catch his breath, your nails dug on his shoulder as you tried to gather your thoughts, "you're drunk." His lips part, and you blink up at him, his name's the only thing echoing in your brain. "So are you," he smirked, eyes darting towards your lips, "but both of us aren't drunk enough to imagine this, are we?" And the way he said those words, mixed with the way his eyes were locked into you as if you're the only thing that mattered made you do something which sober you would definitely regret.

Your hands reached up, fingers brushing against his jaw, you pulled him towards you, grounding both of you into the moment. His hands settled on your waist, and your spine arched against the door. The soju in your body made you aware of every little thing that happened, the way he leaned his to connect his lips to yours, his breath against your mouth, the slight trembled in your chest, the way his hands bunched up the fabric of your shirt, everything.

"I love you," he confessed, like it pained him to not say it out loud, he bent down, breaking his kiss and carried you towards his bedroom. You couldn't think of anything else other than his intoxicating scent. You wrapped your hands around his neck as he laid you down on his bed, hovering above you. "I hope you'll forgive me, cause I can't stop. Please, I need you." He kissed you again, his hands working on your shirt's button, this time though, you don't stop him. Your hands instead tug at the hem of his t-shirt and he broke the kiss, pulling his t-shirt over his head and throwing it away without a care.

He stayed like that for a while, kneeling between your spread legs, chest heaving, mouth parted and eyes focused solely on you. His hands traced your thighs, slow and deliberate like he had all the time in the world, and you shivered, suddenly feeling overwhelmed by this gaze. His hands slide up, now lurking dangerously near the waistband of your pants, eyes a little glassy but still focused on you.

You lift your hips off of the bed, and he took it as a sign to slide your pants down alone with your panties. Your thighs closed around his hips as the cool air brushed against your wet folds, Jake frowned, fingers digging on your thighs as he dragged them till your knees to open them wider, "don't you dare to hide away from me." He grabbed one of your legs, hoisting it over his shoulder, kissing your ankle but never his eyes off you. You gulped, fisting the sheets. "So beautiful," he breathed, laying down on his stomach, one leg still perched over his shoulder, the other pinned down by his hand.

His lips travelled down from your stomach, trailing kisses and bite marks across as he dipped lower and lower. He kissed your inner thigh before he pulled his tongue out to drag it against your slit. Your hips jolted with his sudden movements, hands instinctively reaching down to grab his hair, "Jake." He hummed against your pussy, sending vibration against it. Your toes dug onto his back as you moaned, back arching against the bed.

He continued to lap at your core like he couldn't stop, his movements a little messy but eager. You bit your lips to suppress your moans and he reached out one of his hands to grab your chin, "wanna hear you make those pretty sounds baby." He then rested his hand against your stomach and pin you in place as he resumed his actions. "You taste so sweet baby, could stay here for hours," he smirked against your pussy, sucking on you and smiling as your moans got louder. His nose brushed against your clit, "fuck, Jake," you cried, head thrown back, "feels so good."

"Yeah?" He questioned, now rubbing your clit in circular motions as he continued to lick on your pussy. Your body jolted with the added pressure on your clit, a tight knot forming in your stomach, "Jake, I think-" you moaned, unable to express yourself with how good he made you feel, "I'm gonna cum." He nodded, never stopping his actions even when his hair stung from where you were pulling them. Your orgasm washed over you like a tidal wave, sudden and all consuming and he pulled away after he made sure there was nothing left to waste.

He climbed up, your hands reaching up to wipe the cum that stained his chin. He laughed at your actions, then dipped his head to capture your lips in a kiss, making you taste yourself. You dragged your hands down his chest towards the button of his pants, pulling it open, he stood up to remove his pants and boxers and come back towards you.

A sigh left your lips as you cupped his face to pull him closer, his hands slid behind your back to unclasp the hook of your bra. His other hand pulled one of the bra straps off your shoulder, then removed the piece of clothing fully from your body.

"Fuck, why are you so beautiful?" He wondered, nibbling one of your nipples while his other hand squeezed the neglected one. He took notice of your blissed out state and adjusted a little to position the tip of his cock against your entrance. You gasped at the contact, gripping his arms to anchor yourself. He shifted his attention on your other boob, lips wrapping around the sensitive bud as he pushed it slowly. "Need you to relax for me," he muttered, looking down to where both of you were connected, "yeah?" He looked back up at your face and you nodded, once he felt your body relax, he slowly pushed more, half moaning, half groaning at the way your walls sucked him in. He nuzzled his head on your shoulder once he bottomed out, resisting the urge to move.

"Shit, you're so warm and so tight." He groaned, kissing your neck to distract his thoughts, "tell me when you're ready." You nodded against his shoulder, getting overwhelmed by how full you felt. "Jake," you whispered, voice trembling, "move please." He perched himself on his elbows, kissing your forehead once before leaning his forehead against it. He sighed, pulling out till only the tip of his cock was buried in you, biting his lips, he slammed right in. "Jake, shit." You moaned, the friction of his cock against your walls too good to handle.

He rocked his hips against yours, finding his rhythm. Your breath got caught in your throat, a startled gasp leaving your lips as he picked up his pace. He moaned loudly when he felt your clenching around him, again and again, sucking him right in. His fingers dug against your hips as he sat straight, lifting and angling your hips in order to thrust into you more deeply. Your eyes rolled back, fingers grasping for his hands as the new angle. "Baby, you feel so good, so good I can't stop," he whimpered, head clouded with the thoughts of chasing both of your releases.

One of his hands slid down to rub circles around your clit, overstimulating your breast sensitive bud. "Jake, I'm close again," your tears fell down your cheeks, the sight making Jake's hips tremble. "Me too baby, fuck you look so beautiful right now, wish I could take a picture," his words made you clenched around his harder and without warning, you felt your orgasm wash over you, soaking his lower abdomen a bit as you trembled in his hold. He followed soon after, ropes of cum spilling inside you, hot and warm, his movements slowed enough and then he stopped completely.

He dropped his weight on you, still buried deep inside you. Jake's breath evened out, too tired to move, his eyes fluttered close. And you don't remember when your own tiredness washed over you, pulling you back into slumber, too blissed out to mull over the consequences of your actions.

You groaned slightly when you heard the ringtone of your phone. Your hands reached out towards the sound, patting the bed till it reached your phone. You squint your eyes, adjusting towards the brightness, the call went off. The silence that followed after that was more deafening than any sound, you felt a weight half draped at your side, you could feel another heart beating against your skin. You sucked in a breath, slowly removing yourself away from Jake's hold. Your phone rang again, you lowered the volume and looked back to see Jake was still deep in sleep.

You threw Jake's t-shirt over your head, shutting his bedroom door behind, you picked up the phone, making your way inside Mina's room for privacy. "Hello?" You cleared your throat, "Hey! I'm so sorry I had to call you this late, you must've been asleep," Mina's cheerful voice rang on the other end of the call. "Wow you're really cheerful for someone who should be asleep," you mumbled, rubbing your eyes. You heard a distant voice coming from her end, a call of her name, followed by Mina's awkward laugh.

"Umm...yeah....uh....I just saw multiple calls from Jake on my phone, it was on silent so I couldn't attend it, he puts his phone on vibration mode while sleeping so I knew it would be useless to call him so I called you instead, did you get any calls from him?" You sighed, eyes falling on the faint imprints of Jake's fingers on your thighs. "You there?" Mina asked nervously. "Yeah, he passed out so I brought him back to the apartment," your hands dug into her mattress as you waited for her to say something.

"Oh my god! He can get reckless sometimes, though I'm glad you are there to take care of him, I can sleep well knowing he's safe in your care," the relief in her voice made your heart ache with something you couldn't name, but you hummed in response, "where are you?" You heard her take a deep breath, "my friend's house." You sighed but didn't question her further, "friend?" You reached up to massage your temple, "yeah, Suzy." You frowned, paying attention to the background, you remember watching Suzy's snapchat stories, she isn't even in the city. "Okay, take care." You hung up the phone.

Your mind went back to the voice that called out Mina's name, the voice was soft yet deep and it was crystal clear that it belonged to a man. Mina was in Suzy's house, she lives alone and is dating a girl, so why is there a man? Did Jake figure that out? Was he upset and drank too much because he found out what Mina was upto? Did he drink too much because he realized Mina was slipping away from him and would eventually leave him?

All of this made you feel more guilty than you previously did, especially after you let your emotions get the best out of you and you took advantage of his vulnerable state. God, how desperate could you get?

You buried your head on your hand, heart racing as fear creeped inside you, how will Jake react when he wakes up? What will be the fate of your friendship after this? You felt angry at yourself for giving in so easily, Mina was cheating on Jake, and he got drunk and you stupidly took advantage of that situation to fulfill your own desires. You weren't sure if you'd be able to see yourself in the mirror feeling ashamed.

You got up, quietly making your way back inside Jake's room, he was still sleeping, lips parted as he snored softly, you sighed in relief and gathered your clothes. Heading towards his bathroom, you cleaned yourself and got dressed. You washed your face, making sure there weren't any signs that would indicate something happened between you both. You gathered Jake's clothes, throwing his pants and t-shirt in the laundry basket.

Now you just need to clean him and make him wear his boxers but you weren't sure how deep it was in his sleep. Still you made your way towards the bed, and he shifted to lay on his back. You held your breath, waiting to see if he would wake up but when he gave no sign of consciousness, you sighed. Taking the warm cloth, you removed the covers from his body to clean him as much as you could, starting from his mouth, then his hands and finally his lower body. You were glad you didn't leave any marks on him. You put the cloth away, adjusting him a little and made him wear his boxers.

You wiped the sweat formed on your head and neck, and stepped away after making sure there all the things were placed as they were before you two got intimate and then made your way out of his room. Checking the time, you made your way out of his apartment and into your car. You trembled as soon as your hands fell on the steering wheel, legs bouncing in nervousness, but you took a few deep breaths and pulled out of the parking lot and towards your apartment.

First thing you did after you entered your apartment was to brush your teeth then throw your clothes in the laundry and take a warm shower to calm yourself. Dressing yourself in a fresh pair of clothes, and laying on your bed, thinking about everything that has happened. You felt your head buzzing, the lack of sleep getting into you, the adrenaline fading away in the safety of your apartment. Your last thought before you drifted off to sleep was whether Jake will forgive you after what happened, because Jake may call you his Rapunzel, but she wasn't a homewrecker like you at least.

You groaned, stirring in your sleep as you sat up to find your phone, grabbing it to see it had a missed call from Jake. Your eyes widened, realising that he would have been awake by now. You were contemplating whether you should call him back when your screen lit up with his name again. "Shit," you bit your nails but picked up the call anyway.

"Where are you?" His voice was sharp, and you winced thinking of the right words to say, "um, my apartment." You heard him suck in a breath, "come to my apartment, need to talk to you." Sweat formed on your palms at the tone of his voice but you found yourself agreeing to come nonetheless.

You hesitated before pressing his doorbell, he opened the door as if he was waiting for you to ring it. You smiled awkwardly and entered the apartment with tentative steps and he closed the door, walking past you to head towards the kitchen. You followed him, sitting on the high stool beside the counter, you waited for him to speak. You observed as he made coffee, his back was turned towards you, shoulder stiffened and a weird tension filled the air around you.

He served you breakfast and the coffee, sitting right in front of you as he made himself comfortable on the other end of the counter. "Why were you at your apartment?" He sipped his coffee, "what type of question is that?" You took a bite of the toast, avoiding his eyes. "Mina called me," he started, briefly glancing your way, "she told me you picked me up from the club." You took a deep breath, "yeah I did-" he put his mug on the counter, "she also told me you were here when she called you early in the morning."

"It's because I was here," you frowned, chill rushing down your veins under his intense eyes, "I had some work, so I left early." He put his hands on the counter, tilting his head at you, "is that so?" You nodded more quickly than you should have, "yes!" He sighed and both of you resumed eating the breakfast. You washed the dishes and he cleaned the counter behind you when he spoke again, "okay, I'll not dance around the topic anymore," he breathed, taking your hand and pulling you towards the living room.

Both of you sat on the couch, with you awkwardly glancing around the room and him focused on you. "Did something happen yesterday?" You turned your head towards him, mouth parting then closing, "um, nothing?" You scratched the back of your ear, "are you sure? Did you put my clothes in the laundry?" Your eyes widened but you shook your head, "do you not remember what happened yesterday?" He leaned against the couch, hands folded across his chest, "what happened?" You gulped, eyes darting towards him and then at the wall behind him, "I picked you up, took off your shoes and jacket, and left to sleep in Mina's room."

"That doesn't explain my clothes in the laundry," he squinted his eyes at you, "I got a call from Mina, since your coworker had initially tried calling her, she asked me about you and everything, after that I came in your room to check on you and your clothes were pooled beside the bed so I put them in the laundry." Your words were frantic, but you hoped he'd take a bait and not question you further.

He looked at you for a few seconds longer, eyes losing their sharpness, he took a shallow breath, clasping his hands together as he looked at you, "are you sure nothing happened between us?" You bit your lips out of nervousness, "us? No, why would you think that?" The corner of his lips twitched, eyes turning glassy but he quickly looked away, taking a deep breath, "okay, if you say so," he picked up the TV remote, "I think I dreamed something which I shouldn't have, it felt too real to be a dream though, but now after talking with you I'm glad to know I didn't do anything I'll regret."

You nodded your head in understanding, turning around to face the TV but your mind was far away, Jake's 'I'm glad to know I didn't do anything I'll regret' rang loudly in your ears. So he thinks being with you is something he will regret. It stung more than you had anticipated, but you knew this would happen. He wasn't yours to begin with.

You sat beside him, laughing at the jokes he tried to crack and comment he made about the scenes but you could hear your heart tearing apart with each passing second. The pain in your chest was suffocating, you needed to distance yourself from him to mend your heart, because you didn't trust yourself around him anymore.

"Are things not going well with you and Mina?" You questioned after the movie ended and all there left was silence in the room. Jake flinched slightly, not expecting you to say anything, "um you could say that." He sighed, leaning against the couch, "we've been fighting a lot, which is stupid because we always solve it as soon as possible." He rubbed his temple, "I'll talk with her when she'll be back." You nodded, slumping against the couch, of course he would try to mend their relationship, they have been with each other for so long.

Your phone has been ringing non stop for the past 10 minutes and you sat on your bed, leaning against the headboard. Your eyes were trained on the way your phone's screen lit up every time Jake called but you didn't pick up. After a while, the call stopped, barely before your phone buzzed with a voice note. You reached out, curiosity taking over as you played note.

"Um, I don't know why you're not picking up your phone, I'm getting worried. If I did anything wrong tell me okay? I will make it up to you just like I always have. Please pick up."

Another voice note chimed in, "I had a talk with Mina, everything is fine between us now. We made things up, and cleared every misunderstanding. I was so focused on my feelings that I never sat down and asked her about how she felt. But when she came back that day and we talked properly after such a long time, I finally understood her and I promised to be better from then on."

Your chest tightened at his words, you remembered Mina telling you about how fights aren't a big deal in between them, of course they would solve these issues too. You exhaled a deep breath, but the sting in your eyes was too overwhelming to control. Your breath shuddered and you buried your head in your hands, trembling, as tears ran down your cheeks. You choked a sob, helplessly gripping your bedsheet to ground you. Avoiding your feelings was the biggest mistake you made, if only you confessed before it was too late, if only. You shook your head, tears streaming down your neck, it was too late, too late.

Another notification erupted and you reached for your phone with a trembling hand, another voice note from Jake. You wiped your nose with the tissue before tossing it in the dustbin, you played the note. "Okay, now I'm not worried, I'm stressed and panicking, are you sick? Maybe that's the reason you aren't picking up the phone. But no worries, I'll take care of you well once I reach your apartment. See you soon, Rapunzel."

What? Your eyes widened, Jake's coming to your apartment? All those attempts at avoiding him only brought him closer to you. Wiping your tears you scrambled you make yourself look at least a bit presentable. You panicked, pacing around your living room to think of any excuse to avoid meeting him. You were deep in thought, fingers tightly clutching on your phone like it personally offended you when your doorbell rang. You screamed loudly, not expecting him to arrive so soon.

You put your hands on your mouth when the doorbell rang again, "open the door, I heard screaming!" You grimaced, knowing that he would climb up your window if you didn't open up so you made your way towards the door, anger bubbling up inside your heart. He wasn't even allowing you to break down properly, why did he have to be so present and so doting and so caring that you couldn't even hate him properly?

"Hi, I knew you were home," Jake wiggled his eyebrows as he brushed past you to enter your apartment. "Hello to you too," you said through gritted teeth. He turned around with that sickeningly sweet smile of his, "it seems like you woke up on the wrong side of the bed." You rolled your eyes as he chuckled, placing a bag on your coffee table, "don't give me an attitude, I brought your favorite pastries for you." Sighing you called out his name but he avoided your voice, making his way towards the TV remote.

"I knew you'd get this cranky-" he chuckled, finally finding the remote.

"Jake."

He ignored you, plopping on the couch as if it was a muscle memory, "the pastries will instantly lift up your mood-"

"Jake, listen to me-"

"Don't worry princess, your prince is here to take care of you." He winked at you, switching through movie titles.

"SIM JAEYUN!"

That seems to startle him enough to stop and stare at you, finally paying attention. "Will you listen to me? I'm trying to talk to you and you keep on deflecting!" His eyebrows crease in confusion, worry lacing over his features, "I am listening to you, I'm not deflecting." You scoffed, running a hand through your hair. He got up, making his way towards you. You turned towards him, jabbing your finger in his chest, "you are."

"I always listen to you," He gulped, chest heaving, not entirely sure about your behavior. "Yeah you do," your lips trembled, "but you listen only when you want to." He swallowed, looking away for a second before his eyes found yours again, "that's-," he huffed, "that's not true."

"Stupid," You whispered but he caught your words. He opened his mouth to retort, but before he could say anything, you stepped forward. Your hands reached up to cup his face, and you pulled him towards you, sealing his lips with yours in a gentle kiss. You didn't try to make the kiss anything more than it was, just a firm press of your lips against his but you hoped he would understand what you wanted to tell him.

You pulled away, hands pressing firmly against his chest as you pushed him out of your apartment. "I hope this kiss told you everything that my voice couldn't," you mumbled as you pushed him out of your door, "I don't want to be your friend anymore Jake, it's better if we never meet each other after this." Jake's eyes snapped back into the moment as those words left your mouth, realization creeping in. He opened his mouth to say something when you slammed the door shut.

He rang the doorbell, knocking the door when he didn't hear any sound from your side, "open the door, let's talk, please, let's talk." You slumped against the door, crouching down as tears slipped from your eyes at his desperate plea, "go away Jake, don't make it any harder for me, I beg you, please go away, I'll do something to myself if you don't." He slammed his head against your head, shutting his eyes close as he choked back a sob. He waited for a minute, before nodding his head in agreement, "okay, if that's what you want."

"Wow, you're eating a lot, I didn't know you had it in you," Jungwon laughed at your words, but nodded, "I missed this food, although I love Japan, home is home." You nodded your head in understanding as you continued to eat. Jungwon had called to meet you at a restaurant and even though you were shocked he returned so abruptly, you were glad he called you because you'd started to feel lonely after cutting Jake off.

"This food is actually very good," you mumbled, nodding your head in appreciation, "I've been eating ramen and cereals for the past few weeks aside from occasionally street food." Jungwon's eyebrow furrowed, "why?" You swallowed the food and went to speak when Jungwon continued, "Also I called Jake to meet up but he said he'll be back in a few days, since he went back home." You smiled, though Jungwon noticed it didn't reach your eyes, "I see."

"Did something happen? I also found it weird that both of you didn't go back home together, you always do that right?" You sighed, knowing the truth would eventually surface anyway, "we had something happen between us, so I broke off our friendship." Jungwon's eyes widened and he choked on his food. You rubbed his back, letting him calm down before you passed him a glass of water.

"Was the fight that bad?" You nodded your head, slumping back against the chair, "yes, it was for the better anyway." Jungwon pouted, squeezing your hand in reassurance, "well if things are bad enough that you need to break off the friendship then you'll be glad to hear that he won't be anywhere near you now." Your eyebrows creased, "what? Why?" Jungwon sighed, "figured you wouldn't know, Jake is moving."

"Why's he moving?" You questioned, feeling your heart race and throat tightened, Jungwon gave you a confused look, "well because of the engagement, what else?" You gave him a blank look and he continued, "I came here early from Japan because of it."

You clutched on the hem of your top, engagement? Jake was getting engaged and then he would be moving away? Him and Mina? They had already resolved their issues and finally decided to take their relationship to the next level? Your ears rang loudly, whatever words Jungwon spoke couldn't even reach you. Sighing, you focused on fighting back your tears so you won't cry in the middle of the restaurant.

Your chest tightened, he chose her in the end. You were never the choice anyway, but you were glad Jake at least knew about your feelings and you won't be drowning in the sea of what ifs. You shook your head, trying to focus back on Jungwon, "-I don't know what will happen now though, especially with you and Jake not being friends anymore, plus your friendship with Mina must have also hit the rock."

You nodded, you had ignored Mina as much as you've avoided Jake so you aren't sure where you stand in your friendship with her. And Jake had always been a responsible person, he must've talked with Mina where it went wrong and decided to act accordingly rather than breaking things off. He looked very happy when he visited you that day for it to be otherwise.

"You didn't break things off with Mina right?" Jungwon questioned, "no, I didn't, not officially at least." He nodded, "then you wouldn't mind coming to the engagement party right? For her sake?" He started cautiously, "I mean, if that's okay with you, I know it would be weird for you to go since Jake will also be there-"

"I'll go," you cut him off, breathing in, "I'll go with you." Jungwon smiled at you, holding your hand in assurance, "you're sure?" You smiled back,squeezing his hand. You don't want to go, but you need to do it in order for your heart to move on, this will be your closure, "I'm sure."

You found yourself standing in front of your mirror, dressed in a lavender colored dress and your high heels. You frowned, trying your best to make your hair behave like you wanted. Your phone rang and a small smile graced your lips as you saw Jungwon's name on the screen. "Are you ready?" His voice echoed through the speaker, "yes, I am."

You took a final look at yourself in the mirror, a laugh escaping your throat as you were reminded of the prom night where your and Jake's friendship started. You promised yourself to never forget the moments shared with him, of the way he supported your dreams and how he made you fall in love. You looked down as your feelings overwhelmed but, taking a deep breath, you made your way out of your apartment. The night was young, the moonlight shining above you as you made your way towards Jungwon's car.

"Jungwon!" You called out, slipping inside his car as he closed the door behind you. "You look pretty," he smiled, taking a look at you. "Thank you, Jungwon," you smiled back, adjusting your hair. "Are you sure you want to go? I think Mina will understand if you decide against it, especially since Jake would be there too." You sighed, giving his arm a squeeze, "I'll be fine, don't worry too much."

You took a deep breath as Jungwon started his car, you don't really know how you'll face him, especially what you'll say. 'Congratulations on getting engaged' that sounded so robotic. What else? 'I always knew you two would end up together?' the hell, he will judge you for saying that, especially after you kissed him. "We're here," Jungwon's voice brought you back to the moment and you could feel your heart in your throat. You had to attend in order to move on.

You got out of the car and walked beside Jungwon inside the venue. Your hands trembled as you entered so you clasped them tightly together. Your mind was swirling with thoughts that you didn't even look where you went and you collided with someone, their hands stabilizing you by holding your arms. You felt the strong scent of cedarwood and leather creeped inside your lungs, all too familiar, followed by a soft breathy whisper of your name.

You tilted your head up, recognizing the voice immediately, "Heeseung?" Mina was cheating on Jake with Heeseung? And he's attending their engagement party like it isn't a big deal? He smiled, engulfing you in a hug. "I didn't know we would finally meet like this," He exhaled, hands squeezing your shoulders just the way he always did when you'd stress over your exams and he would give you his notes to make it easier for you.

Heeseung, Jake's closest friend and yours too. The same Heeseung who always scolded you both when you did something wrong. The same Heeseung who was self righteous enough to always solve the exams without cheating. The same Heeseung who couldn't say no to his parents and tried law to make them happy, the same Heeseung who disappointed them and pursued business instead. You couldn't believe he was capable enough to betray Jake by being with Mina behind his back. This had to be a prank.

He said something and excused himself and went away, but you stood there, still in shock. Jungwon nudged you, taking your hand and dragging you towards the drink section. "You stay here, I need to meet someone." He left you alone for a while. You ordered a drink, sipping it leisurely as your eyes scanned the room in search of Jake.

"You came!" You didn't have to turn around to recognize the voice, Mina. She stood in front of you, eyes twinkling in excitement as she hugged you tight. She looked beautiful, more beautiful than you last remember. Well, the saying happiness makes you glow must be right. The ring on her left hand shined brighter but nothing could beat the smile on her face. "I'm so happy to see you here," she pouted.

Mina grabbed both of your hands, giving it a gentle squeeze but all you could feel was how these were the same hands which held both Jake and Heeseung. "I was worried you wouldn't come," she smiled awkwardly, "especially after...you know..." you looked at her confused, heart beating loudly as you waited for her to continue, "...Jake told me everything." If you could dig up a hole and bury yourself right then, you'd have done it. Surely Jake would tell her everything, this was inevitable but how were you supposed to answer her now? That you kissed her fiancee without his consent then broke off your friendship?

Mina noticed the way the color drained away from your face and she stuttered, "shit, I shouldn't have brought up that topic, it must be awkward for you, I'm so sorry." You shook your head, "no don't apologize, this is embarrassing but I'm fine." Mina nodded, "thank you for coming to my engagement party regardless, I've always considered you a good friend of mine."

You smiled at Mina, though you wanted to do nothing more than yell at her for taking Jake's love for granted but the way she looked at you, the way she apologized, maybe she realized the weight of her actions and chose Jake. Mina bid you goodbye when someone called her and you turned back towards the counter to get your drink.

Standing by the counter, with your drink in one hand you realized how complicated your life had become since you came back to the country. You looked at your phone to check any new notifications, sighing when there wasn't any. You groaned, how will it even be possible, all of your friends were currently attending the engagement party, everyone was here.

Your eyes fell upon the stage and your breath got caught in your throat, there he stood, Jake, in his stupid tuxedo, with his stupid smile plastered on his stupid face as he talked with Mina, Heeseung and Jungwon, laughing at something Heeseung said. You watched the way Mina threw her head back laughing, covering her mouth with her diamond ring cladded hand as she hooked her hand in Heeseung's arm. Stupid Jake, can't he see how the two people he trusted the most are betraying him? Couldn't he see the signs right in front of him.

You couldn't bring yourself to watch him be so stupid. Usually you'd have plenty of reasons up your sleeves in order to run away from your problems but today, Jake's stupidity would be the reason for your escape. You sighed, finishing your drink in one go, taking one last glance at the stage, you frown when you noticed Jake's absence. Whatever, the ring on Mina's hand was enough of your closure, you took a deep breath, texting Jungwon that you'd be leaving early, you made your way towards the exit at the back of the venue.

Your heels clicked against the floor, you unlocked your phone to book a cab. You groaned after getting your ride cancelled yet again. Who even decided to throw the party at such a venue? And why are these driver's rejecting you as if you aren't going to pay them? With a frustrating sigh, you slipped your phone inside the pocket of your dress. Stupid drivers, stupid venue, stupid Jake, and stupid feelings, fuck everything.

You stomped your foot in annoyance as you walked and unfortunately you lost your balance as your heel got caught on a cracked space on the floor and broke off. You yelped, losing your balance when two hands gripped your waist, stabilizing you. Grabbing onto the shoulder and blazer of the person, your eyes widened when you realized who caught you. "You have a weird habit of falling right into my arms, Rapunzel."

Right, out of all the people who could've caught you, it had to be Jake. Destiny was playing with your feelings at this point. You couldn't find your voice as you stared at him but then you snapped back, standing up properly. "You're still clumsy, nothing much changed after high school right?" He chuckled and you cursed at your stomach for doing that weird little flip it did whenever you heard his laugh.

You swallowed the lump forming in your throat, "look, I think you should go back inside." He frowned, stepping closer, "why do you want me to go inside?" You clicked your tongue, did he really ask you that? "What do you mean why? Isn't Mina still inside?" You questioned, tilting your head slightly to look at him in the eyes. "What does Mina being inside have anything to do with me being inside? And why shouldn't I be here? Just because you decided to end our friendship, doesn't mean I'll give up on us."

"What are you even saying?" You snapped, crossing your arms across your chest, "what am I saying? I'm your friend after all, right? A petty little thing isn't going to get in our way." You rubbed your head, feeling the headache creeping in, friend? After the kiss you shared, he still had the audacity to say that you two are friends. Was he mocking your feelings?

"Go back inside Jake, I'm tired of this," you mumbled, not having energy to yell at him. He scoffed, digging his hands inside his pockets, "why do you keep telling me to go inside? Mina has her fiancee with her there, she'll do just fine without me. Heeseung is there for her." Your eyes widened, and you could feel your heart drop to your stomach in real time, "what? Heeseung? Mina? Fiancee?" Jake nodded his head, running a hand through his hair in frustration.

"Yes, Heeseung and Mina, he proposed to her after finally getting the courage." Fuck. All the time you thought Mina was cheating on Jake with Heeseung when in reality they were the real couple all along? And when Jungwon mentioned about the engagement, he didn't really mention Heeseung so you assumed it was of Mina and Jake. "So, Mina and Heeseung were dating, and he finally proposed to her?"

"That's exactly what I'm trying to tell you." He threw in hands in exasperation, "Mina had been in love with Heeseung for so long, and he kept on avoiding her because he thought he didn't deserve her after he disappointed his parents, but finally after a long talk, he finally confessed about his feelings and now they are engaged." You were too shocked to even react to his rambling. All these time you thought Mina was dating Jake but it was never the case? Now you sure looked like a fool standing there with all your delusions.

"Are you even listening to me?" His voice rang in your ears but you dip your head low, too embarrassed to even look at him. You internally cringed at yourself for calling him stupid when in reality it was you. "Rapunzel, come on, don't ignore me like that now." He complained, stepping closer, "I'm trying to say something, can you at least pay attention to me?"

He sighed, and you could literally feel the annoyance radiate off of him. "You left me with no choice," you frowned at his words, finally tilting your head up only for him to step closer. His palms cradled your face, you barely had the time you let out a gasp before his lips were on yours, sudden but firm, just like you did.

He pulled away slightly, hands still cupping your face as he mumbled "you weren't listening, I had to do something about it." You felt heat crawl up your face as you looked at him, a simple kiss, yet it spoke so many things your mouths couldn't. He smiled, feeling proud to have your eyes back on him, "see, it worked, now you're paying attention to me."

You didn't speak, too stunned to find your voice. He rolled his eyes, sighing deeply, "come on, don't pretend you didn't get what I wanted to say," his lips curled into his signature smirk as he leaned closer, "even I got the message when you did the same." A tear escaped your eye and he was quick enough to wipe it. "Why are you crying baby?" He mumbled, resting his forehead against yours. "Are you sure about this?" You hiccuped, still trying to wrap your head around the fact that he is standing in front of you, and that he loves you, just like you do.

Jake sighed, tucking your hair behind your ear and tilt your head so he could look into your eyes more clearly, "you don't realize how long I've waited for this, every moment I spent away from you was torture for me. You always have this habit of running away and somehow run into my arms, you think I'd be strong enough to hold you in my arms but I wasn't strong enough to get back up when I fell for you." He kissed your forehead with a shaky breath, "I love you, I've been in love with you ever since you ran straight into my arms at prom night."

"Jake," you whispered, closing the distance between you and easing into his welcoming embrace, "I love you too, always have. I don't mind running away from everyone else if it means I'll run into your arms, I shouldn't have pushed you away." You closed your eyes as more tears pool inside your eyes, Jake dropped his head on your shoulder, rubbing your back to console you as you cried.

You both stayed like that for a while, just basking in each other's presence after years of separation, and yearning. "Why are you moving out?" You questioned after a while, and you could hear Jake exhale a breath. "Well I shared that apartment with Mina because it's rent was too high, so when she started getting serious with Heeseung and decided she would move out soon we got into various arguments over it. But then both of us talked with each other and I decided I would move out too."

A laugh rumbled out of your chest and Jake pulled away from you, disbelief written all over his face, "why are you laughing? I can afford that apartment just fine but why should I live in an apartment made for two people, I don't make reckless financial decisions." You nodded your head, knowing how well off he really is but it's always fun to tease him a bit. "I know, maybe I could move in with you instead?"

His eyes lit up in excitement and he nodded his head, "I would love that, can we do that?" You chuckled and he leaned in as you pressed a kiss against your forehead. "See, you look best when you laugh, my Rapunzel." He crouched down, unbuckling your heels, "what are you doing?" His fingers hooked around the straps of your heels and he leaned down slightly to pick you up in his arms, just like he did at the prom night.

"So the Flynn Rider managed to steal the heart, flirt his way out of trouble and got his girl somehow?" You chuckled, hands wrapping around his neck to steady yourself. He laughed, adjusting you in his arms, "hmm, my runaway Rapunzel, I told you I always got you."

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