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it'd be aju nice for a soju rn

[shuajunice]

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[shuajunice]

Thank you to my moot, @epelletart, for replying to my random af post the other day. I present to you my first-ever themed series for SVT!

drop dead - Jun

stupid song - Hoshi

honeybee - Mingyu

maggots for brains - Wonwoo

u + me = <3 - DK

my way - Jeonghan

purple - Minghao

the cure - Seungkwan

begged - Woozi

what's wrong with me - Vernon

less - Joshua

expectations - S.Coups

cigarette smoke - Dino

I'm excited for y'all to read these! Lmk if you wanna be tagged for a specific guy or you wanna be tagged in all of it!

I hope you guys like the lineup! xo

[jjjjjjjjoey]

When ur mutuals w/ some cool ass people rb if u agree

[shuajunice]

WHAT IF—

I WRITE AN SVT SERIES WITH OLIVIA'S NEW ALBUM ????

[shuajunice]

planning another angsty fic lol and i did a little spin the wheel thing to pick which members are involved bc it's gonna be sort of a love triangle

anyway, the combo of the members are a combo that i've never seen before here on tumblr but im excited for the challenge :)))

P.S. i hope no one takes me the wrong way bc im not being mean when i say "i've never seen it here on tumblr" 😭 i just genuinely haven't seen it

[shuajunice]

His Ghost Still Lingers | J.W.W & K.M.G

Pairing: ex!wonwoo x fem!reader, current bf!mingyu x fem!reader, mingyu x wonwoo [platonic], older bro!joshua x fem!reader Summary: Can love survive when the past is still there, but no longer yours? Mingyu knows you love him. But whenever Jeon Wonwoo is near, he feels something unspoken settle between them; something he was never meant to fully understand, but can’t ignore either. Warning/s: angst, sad mingyu, insecure mingyu, some religious stuff Notes: banner by me, non-idol au Song/s: wildflower by billie eilish, this is me trying by taylor swift, needy by ariana grande, ghostin by ariana grande, pov by ariana grande Word count: 15,873

CHAPTER 1: TRADITIONS DON'T DIE

Every year, your family would organize a two-week vacation with the Jeons. They've been friends long before they had children. So, it was a no-brainer for them to live next to each other. When Joshua was born, Mrs. Jeon was already expecting. A few months later, in July, she had Wonwoo. Then, you were born in 1997, and Wonwoo's brother was born the year after.

You all grew up alongside each other—holidays, birthdays, ordinary days that blurred into something constant. So it didn’t come as a surprise to anyone when you and Wonwoo started dating. Your mom was thrilled, Joshua didn’t worry (it was Wonwoo, after all), and his parents had already been treating you like family long before anything changed.

Before dating, you and Wonwoo were the best of friends. By the time you and Wonwoo made it official, it was easy. It felt like stepping into something that had always been there. You stayed that way for years, until he left for college, and somewhere along the distance, things quietly fell apart.

The tradition didn't.

This year's two-week vacation will be held at a beach resort. It's also a special family vacation because this year, your family had invited Mingyu, your boyfriend. It's the first time you're bringing someone.

Well, not that it's entirely new. Wonwoo has been coming along for years due to your history. So while you went on the annual trip as lovers, he never really counted as a guest; he was just there, part of it.

Mingyu isn't.

Still, he was invited without much hesitation. After all, Wonwoo was the one who vouched for him when your mom and Joshua asked.

Spending two weeks at a beach resort was something you, Joshua, and the Jeon children were looking forward to. Especially now that Mingyu's in the picture. Wonwoo liked Mingyu. After all, they were best buds in high school until college.

The weather was perfect. The air was warm, the kind that clung to your skin. The wind was just right and there weren't many people at the beach.

You and Mingyu were sitting on a beach towel with a big umbrella sticking from the sand. Before Mingyu could fully settle into the moment, you leaned up and pressed a quick, sweet kiss to his lips.

"I'll go join Joshua in the water," you smiled as you glanced toward the shoreline where your brother was waiting, waving his arms already calling you over.

Mingyu blinked once, still stunned by the kiss, then nodded with a small smile. "Alright. I'll get us ice cream then."

You got up from the beach towel and looked at him, "Don't trip and fall. Only fall in line and in love with me."

"Dangerous instructions," he said, eyes flicking to the water. "Just don't drown before I get there."

"I won't!" You grinned, before turning and jogging off toward the water.

Mingyu watched you with a big smile on his face before getting up to buy ice cream for the two of you.

The sun was harsher and hotter near the stalls. Mingyu waited in line, shifting on his feet, watching the sand, listening to the distant crash of waves. He had a semi-permanent squint on his face, mentally cursing himself for not bringing his glasses, and sweat dripping from his forehead. When it was finally his turn, he bought the ice creams, paid for them and began the journey back to your spot.

That was when he looked up and saw you.

You were in the water now, laughing as Wonwoo effortlessly lifted you before tossing you back into the shallow waves. You splashed down with a sound that was too bright to ignore. Nearby, Joshua was laughing like he'd seen this exact scene a hundred times before.

Oh, because he had seen this before. He'd seen it since forever. As kids. As teenagers. When you were together—and after you weren’t. He'd seen your whole story.

Mingyu stopped walking. The sight made him sick. The ice cream in his hands started to drip faster. At first, he didn't notice. He was too busy watching the way you resurfaced; hair wet, cheeks flushed, cursing, and laughing as if nothing in the world could weigh you down. Wonwoo stood nearby, relaxed, like this was normal.

To be fair, this had always been normal. He was the only outsider after all.

Mingyu gulped. The cones softened in his grip; his hands were now sticky with melted ice cream.

Then, you looked up. Your eyes found him instantly. "Hey!" you called with a bright smile, lifting a hand above the water, "Come here!"

For a moment, everything stilled. Joshua turned first, then Wonwoo, both following your gaze. Wonwoo was cool with Mingyu. Wonwoo looked the same as always: calm, unreadable, all resting bitch face and quiet eyes.

And Joshua? Joshua was harder to read. Sometimes, Mingyu felt like he was being quietly evaluated by Joshua, as if checking if he could live up to the standards Wonwoo set. Other times, you'd say Mingyu was overthinking because Joshua was, and he quotes, "a literal cinnamon roll". Joshua definitely didn't give Mingyu "cinnamon roll" vibes. If anything, Joshua's the definition of the "looks like a cinnamon roll but can actually kill you" meme.

Mingyu felt the shift immediately; the awareness of being seen. Something inside him tightened, sharp and quiet.

He took a deep breath and smiled. Quick. Easy. Familiar. Like nothing was wrong. Like he wasn't standing there with melting ice cream in his hands, watching a world he wasn't part of.

"Yeah," he called back, lifting the cones slightly as he jogged over to where you were. "Coming, honey!"

Mingyu watched as you got out of the water and met him halfway. You smiled, kissed his cheek, and grabbed one of the ice cream cones.

"Thank you, handsome." You grinned, immediately eating your ice cream.

"Sorry if it melted." Mingyu said, eating his own ice cream. You shrugged it off and said it was fine. When you were both finished, you dragged Mingyu to join Wonwoo and Joshua.

The four of you began to swim around, laugh, splash each other, and just talk about life. Naturally, you drift into an easy conversation with Wonwoo. To you, it was nothing but a conversation with a friend. To Mingyu, it was different.

"Remember when we went to the cafe near the house?" You asked Wonwoo and he laughed.

"Of course!" Wonwoo caught his breath, "It was hilarious. We went there because it was the grand opening and because you were so excited, you bumped into the window thinking it was the door!"

You splashed Wonwoo and laughed.

Mingyu watched. He felt... off. Back in high school, Mingyu never paid much attention to you beyond being Wonwoo's girlfriend. He never really paid any mind to you whenever you'd watch their basketball practices. He never paid you any mind when Wonwoo would cancel game sessions just for you. It wasn't until after the breakup, when Wonwoo left, and you stayed behind, that Mingyu really got to know you.

You were left behind with Mingyu because you were in the same year. Then you grew closer and by the time you were college freshmen, you've been dating him since graduation.

Oh, you were absolutely his whole world.

However, he can't help but feel guilty every time he looks at Wonwoo. He was your first love, after all. Your first love, who still kind of... hovered. Wonwoo didn't beat him up for dating you. Wonwoo didn't unfriend him for dating you. Wonwoo was just... Wonwoo.

Seeing you two fall into a familiar rhythm just did a number on him, and he didn't know if he should go lie down or go home and cry where nobody could see him. Unbeknownst to him, Joshua paid attention to him. Joshua saw how his shoulders slightly dropped as soon as you and Wonwoo entered your own little world. Joshua noticed how distant Mingyu was when the three of you laughed about some old anecdote that Wonwoo shared.

He saw everything.

Joshua drifted closer to Mingyu and slightly nudged him, "You okay?"

Mingyu quickly glanced at Joshua and immediately laughed it off. Joshua knew it was fake, but for Mingyu's sake, he 'bought' it.

"Yes, hyung." Mingyu smiled, though it didn't reach his eyes. "Everything's going... swimmingly. Why wouldn't it be?"

Joshua hummed at that, unconvinced in a way that wasn’t cruel, just observant. His eyes lingered for half a second longer before he finally looked away. “No reason,” he said simply.

And that somehow made it worse.

A moment later, you turned toward them, brushing wet hair out of your face as you walked closer. "You two are being weirdly quiet," you said suspiciously, narrowing your eyes playfully.

Mingyu panicked, but Joshua saved the situation.

"Mingyu's just grumpy because his ice cream melted." Joshua snorted. Mingyu glanced at him and Joshua raised his brows expectantly.

"It was tragic, actually," Mingyu replied, turning to you, slipping into the familiar version of himself before you could look any closer.

Your expression softened immediately. "I'll buy you another one," you promised, loosely grabbing his wrist. "I mean, I know we had ice cream already, but another one wouldn't hurt, right?"

Mingyu stared at your face as you gave him a smile. And just like that, the tightness in his chest loosened enough for him to breathe again.

He's really in love with you.

"C'mon," you kissed his cheek as you tugged him gently toward the shore. "Walk with me, handsome?"

"Always, beautiful."

You waved at Joshua and Wonwoo as you walked with Mingyu to shore.

Wonwoo watched the two of you walk farther down the shoreline, your hand still loosely wrapped around Mingyu's wrist as waves chased your footsteps. For a while, neither he nor Joshua said anything. The only sound between them was the water shifting against the shore and your laughter carrying faintly through the wind.

Then Wonwoo spoke, "They're good together."

Joshua glanced sideways at him, brows lifting slightly. "Yeah?"

For the first time, Joshua wasn't on the same page as him. It wasn't anything Mingyu did or didn’t do, but Joshua was used to Wonwoo. Used to the certainty that came with him. He'd never had to worry before because it had always been Wonwoo. And maybe that was the problem. In Joshua's mind, Wonwoo had quietly set a standard no one else could reach. So, to hear Wonwoo say that Mingyu's a good match for you? That was skeptical.

"Mingyu makes her happy." Wonwoo shrugged, eyes still fixed ahead.

"That's not what I'm skeptical about." Joshua shook his head.

That finally pulled Wonwoo's attention. Joshua sighed quietly dragging a hand through his wet hair before looking back toward you. "She likes him. A lot, actually." He paused. "I just don't know if Mingyu fully understands what he signed up for."

Wonwoo frowned a bit, "What's that supposed to mean?"

Joshua was quiet for a second, carefully gathering his thoughts. "He's dating someone with a history she can't separate herself from," he said eventually. "Most people say they're okay with that until they actually have to live beside it."

Wonwoo's expression shifted—subtle, almost unreadable. "You think he's bothered."

"I think he's trying very hard not to be."

The waves rolled softly around them. Joshua watched the way Mingyu instinctively slowed his pace to match yours farther down the shore, the way you leaned into him without thinking.

"And honestly?" Joshua muttered. "I don't know if anyone could treat her the way you did."

Wonwoo looked away at that, jaw tightening slightly.

"She was loved properly with you," Joshua continued. "That's hard to follow."

For a moment, neither of them spoke. Farther ahead, Mingyu said something that made you laugh loudly enough for the sound to carry back toward them. Instantly, his entire expression softened as he looked at you.

Wonwoo noticed it. Joshua did too. And maybe that was why Joshua sighed, quieter this time.

"But he really does love her."

Wonwoo nodded once. "I know."

Joshua's gaze lingered on the two of you for another second before he finally looked away.

"I just hope he doesn't spend the entire relationship feeling like he's competing with something he was never supposed to beat."

"Hyung," Wonwoo started, "don't be like that. Just give him some time. We're different people. The way I loved her was different and the way he loves her is different. He'll be setting his own standard, he shouldn't follow whatever standard you think I've set."

"I'll try." Joshua nodded. "For her."

While waiting in line at the ice cream stall, your arms were wrapped around Mingyu's waist. He had one arm wrapped around you, and the other stayed on his side.

"What flavor are you getting?" You asked.

"Hmm," Mingyu thought. "Maybe chocolate and a scoop of vanilla with chocolate drizzle."

"Wow." You laughed.

Mingyu hated himself a little for thinking this way. Nothing about this was wrong. You weren't hiding anything from him. You weren't sneaking around or crossing lines or giving him reasons to doubt you. If anything, you had always been honest about Wonwoo—about what he meant to you, about the years you spent together, about how important he still was in your life.

Mingyu understood that. He truly did.

After all, he was a witness of yours and Wonwoo's love story from before and he was a witness of your healing journey on your fourth year of high school because you and him were left behind.

But understanding something and feeling okay about it were two different things.

Because every time he looked at the two of you together, he became painfully aware of how much history existed between you. Not just romantic history. Something older and deeper built into the way you moved around each other without thinking. You and Wonwoo naturally fit beside each other in a way Mingyu still had to learn.

God, that sounded horrible in his head. It made him feel petty. Ungrateful. Insecure in ways he never thought he'd be. After all, he has you. It's him you're dating now, not Wonwoo.

It's him you were kissing. It's his hand you were holding. It's him you're looking for in crowded spaces. It's him you loved openly.

Somehow, he couldn't get that through his head.

After paying for both of your ice creams, you and Mingyu slowly walked back to your spot while talking about random things and the upcoming academic year. Mingyu dreaded it, if he were being honest. This meant he'd see Wonwoo again, and he'd see you drag Wonwoo around while he trailed behind both of you, feeling like a third wheel in his own relationship.

He lightly shook his head and blinked. 'What the fuck is wrong with me?', Mingyu thought.

Wonwoo wasn't a threat. He's not... right?

Mingyu wasn't sure. He knew he was spiraling. Knew he was making himself miserable over something he couldn't even explain properly.

But calling it "nothing" felt unfair, too. Because to him, it isn't nothing.

You lightly nudged Mingyu when you noticed him grow quieter. He glanced at you, and you stopped walking.

He stopped too, and fully turned to you. You stared at him and said, "You've been quiet."

"Have I?" Mingyu asked, playing dumb. After all, it was easier.

"Mhm", you nodded as you continued eating your ice cream. "You okay?"

Mingyu stared at you, and he could've sworn he heard Joshua. It was as if reality was glitching. First, he saw you; then Joshua; then he saw you again; then Joshua. It was alternating quickly. It also didn't help that you and Joshua looked very similar.

"Baby? You okay?"

Mingyu snapped out of it. Now, he saw you with a worried look etched on your pretty face. He gave you a small smile, "I'm fine. Just... distracted."

"Distracted? Wanna talk about it?" You asked sweetly, intertwining your hands together.

"It's nothing serious, babe. It's just... I just realized how much you and Joshua hyung look alike." Mingyu smiled.

You chuckled lightly, "That's it? Well, he's my older brother. Of course, we'd resemble each other."

You reached up and brushed his hair back, "Thank god it's nothing serious. I was worried about you. Let's walk back?"

Mingyu nodded once, "Yup. Let's go, honey."

Mingyu was emotionally distraught. His heart melted when you said you were worried about him, but part of him felt sick.

You weren't the problem. It was him.

CHAPTER 2: THE DREADED FAMILY DINNER

Before you and Mingyu dated, he was very close to Wonwoo. Of course, he was quite the nerdy kid back then. Wonwoo had been one of the few people genuinely nice to him; nice enough to let him join the basketball team. There, Mingyu excelled. He was still nerdy, but he gained a bit of confidence and an improved sense of style thanks to Wonwoo.

Mingyu barely saw you back then because Wonwoo liked to keep his relationship private. Mingyu knew your face before he knew you. He would smile and wave at you politely when you watched practices. Sometimes, he would hear Wonwoo talk sweetly with you on the phone when they hung out at the mall.

He remembered getting a bit jealous of Wonwoo because he had a special someone he could talk to about anything and everything. No matter how hard Mingyu tried back then, connections never seemed to come easily.

How funny fate turned out.

Now, Mingyu was in Wonwoo's seat, and he didn't know if he liked it. He loved you. He really did. But sometimes, being in Wonwoo's place felt a little like standing where everyone still remembered the person before you, all because Jeon Wonwoo sat before him.

Mingyu stared at Wonwoo as he placed some japchae on your mom's plate and the right amount of kimchi on Joshua's plate. He could do that, too, but apparently, it was always Wonwoo's job to do so. Wonwoo wasn't required to do it, no. It just so happened that Wonwoo has been doing it since forever.

Dinner settled into the same rhythm it always did.

Plates shifted around the table. Someone asked for water. Someone complained about the heat outside. Your mom kept insisting everyone eat more despite the fact that the table was already crowded with food.

It was normal, comfortable, familiar. It's the kind of familiar Mingyu had wished for.

Then, Joshua laughed suddenly.

"Oh my god," he said, putting his chopsticks down. "Do you remember that camping trip?"

Immediately, you looked up. "No."

Wonwoo looked up, too. "Yes."

You pointed at Wonwoo dramatically, "Don't encourage him."

Alas, it was too late. Wonwoo was already smiling, Joshua continued to laugh, your parents were amused, you groaned, and Mingyu had no clue what was going on.

Joshua began recounting the time you, Joshua, Wonwoo, and his younger brother went camping. It was a spontaneous trip. Joshua had just received his driver's license and decided it'd be fun to go camping for the weekend.

"That was the weekend I told you I'd be gone, Mingyu-ah." Wonwoo smiled at Mingyu. "That's why I couldn't help you with your project."

Mingyu nodded and said something along the lines of, "Oh, right. I remember."

"Y/Nie cried over a frog!" Joshua cackled and clapped his hands. Everyone laughed, too.

"Noona screamed so loud that Shua hyung almost dropped the grill." Wonwoo's younger brother snickered.

"It jumped on me!" You exclaimed and pouted, resting your head on Mingyu's shoulder in embarrassment. He immediately wrapped his arm around you to make you more comfortable. Wonwoo saw this and smiled before paying attention to the story again.

"It was tiny, Y/N. Give us a break." Joshua rolled his eyes playfully.

"It touched me!"

"Its foot touched you." Wonwoo corrected as he chewed on some bulgogi.

"WONWOO!" You said in frustration, making everyone laugh again. Mingyu gave a small smile, but the fact that Wonwoo remembered little things about you just gnawed at him.

The universe was against him.

One story somehow turned into another. Then another after that. Suddenly, everyone was talking over each other, throwing memories across the table.

Mingyu wanted to yell. "I'M RIGHT HERE!!", Mingyu internally yelled.

"Wonwoo was so crazy because he actually JUMPED into the lake because Y/N lost her Pandora bracelet for some reason." Joshua chuckled.

Wonwoo wasn't stupid. He knew Joshua didn't mean any harm; he always liked telling stories from the past. However, Wonwoo knew things were different now because you now had Mingyu. He could sense that Mingyu was feeling out of place, and he could sense that Mingyu felt something.

They were best friends, after all. At least Wonwoo still thought of him as a best friend.

"Hyung, stop," Wonwoo sighed. "We get it now."

"He literally DOVE IN!" Joshua ignored him.

"She cried for an hour," Wonwoo said. "It broke me because I didn't like seeing her cry, so I swam for it."

Mingyu knew he looked ridiculous with his tight-lipped smile, and he knew he was about to sound ridiculous if he asked questions, but he felt like an ass for not contributing to the conversation, and he would also like to politely let everyone know that he was still present.

"Did you find it?" Mingyu asked in a hushed voice, but everyone was too busy laughing. He cleared his throat and asked a little louder, "Did you find it?"

Everyone stopped laughing. Joshua glanced at Mingyu, and his eyes widened a little. He completely forgot about Mingyu.

Wonwoo smiled politely and nodded, "I did. Good thing it was perched on top of a rock, so I had no problem grabbing it. It just took me a while to find it."

"That's good." Mingyu hoped and prayed that his tone was light. He didn't want your families to think that he was being a dick. Mingyu reached for the spicy chicken, and Wonwoo quickly stopped him.

"Don't get that one," Wonwoo said as he placed a different kind of chicken on Mingyu's plate.

"Hm?" Mingyu blinked. Was he not allowed to eat that specific kind of chicken?

"It's too spicy. You can't have food that's too spicy." Wonwoo pointed out, "You complained about your stomach acid for two days, remember? Coach had to make you sit on the bench for the game."

Mingyu couldn't function after that.

"Aigoo, Wonwoo-ya is so thoughtful and sweet." Your mother cooed.

Just like that, everyone started talking again. Mingyu just stopped working. He didn't know why Wonwoo would remember such a detail.

"Baby?" You nudged him gently. Mingyu turned to look at you, but you were already staring.

You were worried about him. Again.

'Fuck, I hate myself.' Mingyu thought.

"Where'd you go, hm?" You asked in a hushed voice. "You keep zoning out. What's wrong?"

"I'm just very," Mingyu inhaled sharply, "...very embarrassed that Wonwoo hyung would remember a detail like that."

You let out a sigh of relief, "Well, that's Wonwoo for you. He's very caring and very thoughtful."

"Mingyu-ya, please eat some more. I don't want your eomma to think we're not feeding you." Your mother said sweetly to Mingyu.

"Ah—yes. Thank you, eomoni." He picked up his chopsticks almost immediately, eyes dropping to his plate. Across from him, conversation had already started flowing again. Joshua was laughing over something Wonwoo's younger brother said. Your mom was asking Wonwoo something about college. Wonwoo was piling more food into people's bowls despite protests.

Everything was normal. So normal that Mingyu wondered if he was the only person sitting at the table having a terrible time. Beside him, you leaned against his shoulder lightly.

"Eat properly," you whispered.

There it was again, that softness, that warmth, that care. Mingyu glanced sideways, and his eyes softened. You looked completely relaxed beside him.

No hesitation. No distance. No uncertainty. Just you. His girlfriend, looking at him like you always did. Suddenly, guilt crawled up his throat because while you sat beside him as if this were the easiest thing in the world, Mingyu wondered if loving you was enough when there were parts of you he could never touch—years and memories and history that would always belong to someone else.

And for the first time that night, a thought crossed his mind that made his chest tighten.

What if you were never really his to keep?

CHAPTER 3: JOSHUA HONG IS ACCIDENTALLY EVIL

Dinner slowly dissolved, as family dinners always did. No one ever announced the end of it. It just happened naturally. Chairs shifted back. Empty glasses piled together as conversations split into smaller ones.

The adults migrated to the living room for what Mingyu had come to recognize as parent talk: long conversations that somehow lasted over an hour. They even have a glass of wine each.

Wonwoo's younger brother disappeared down the hallway almost immediately, muttering something about showering first before tonight's swim.

Mingyu knew you mentioned it before coming to the beach resort. He didn't expect all of you to like swimming so much. Obviously, he wouldn't get it. He was never there. Of course, there was a late-night swim. That was tradition too.

You had already disappeared upstairs a few minutes ago to change, yelling something over your shoulder about meeting everyone at the pool in twenty minutes. And just like that, everyone naturally fell into place.

Joshua stood up first, then Wonwoo. No words exchanged. No discussion. Just movement. Joshua gathered plates, and Wonwoo collected glasses. Easy. Practiced. Well, they've done this a hundred times before.

Mingyu stared for a second too long before immediately standing, too. Helping felt normal. Helping felt useful. Helping felt like maybe, just maybe, he could stop feeling like a guest.

"Hyung, let me help," Mingyu said with a bit of enthusiasm. He smiled anyway. Lately, pretending had become easier than explaining.

Mingyu grabbed a few of the bigger plates and stacked them together as he trailed behind Joshua and Wonwoo, who were laughing about something. Mingyu jogged a little to catch up, but the plates shook, catching the attention of Joshua. He stopped walking, turned around, looked at the plates, and looked at Mingyu.

"Careful. I bought those plates from Beijing." Joshua stated. "Don't be clumsy."

Wonwoo was looking at him too, but turned around when Joshua turned around. They continued to walk to the kitchen, and Mingyu just stood there. He felt stupid.

Still, he pushed through because he loves you and he wants to stay in your life.

Joshua was washing the plates, and Wonwoo was drying them and putting them on one side. Mingyu carefully placed the expensive plates from Beijing in the sink as Joshua continued to wash them with ease.

Not knowing what else to do, Mingyu moved to Wonwoo's side and grabbed a few plates to put back. Joshua noticed this through his peripheral vision and said, "Ah, leave that. Wonwoo knows where everything goes."

Mingyu froze. His hand tightened slightly around the plate, "Oh."

That was all he said. Just one word. He knew Joshua didn't mean anything by it. A small, rational part of him knew that Joshua was being normal. Joshua didn't mean any harm because it was a fact: Wonwoo knew where things went. Wonwoo had been coming over since he was a kid. Longer than that, most likely. Wonwoo knew everything. It all made sense.

However, a huge part of Mingyu was hurt. Suddenly, Mingyu felt like he was seventeen again: very awkward, poor skin, dehydrated, and socially inept.

Back then, he used to stand near the basketball court with his backpack hanging awkwardly off one shoulder while everyone else laughed like they'd known each other forever. Then Wonwoo had walked over, handed him a spare jersey, and asked: "You wanna join us?"

And just like that, Mingyu had stopped feeling like an outsider. Until now.

Before Mingyu could think too hard about it, Wonwoo moved beside him and gently took the plates from his hands. Then held out a dish towel. "Dry the plates instead," Wonwoo muttered. His voice was quiet, casual. Like it wasn't a big deal, like Mingyu belonged beside him naturally. And somehow, that hurt too.

The kitchen settled into a rhythm after that. Water running, plates clinking. Joshua washing, Mingyu drying, and Wonwoo putting things back where they belonged. No one said much at first. Then, Joshua suddenly laughed. Not loudly, just to himself.

Wonwoo looked over immediately, "What?"

"Nothing." Joshua shook his head, stifling a laugh. Then, a pause. "Okay, remember that one summer..."

"Hyung," Wonwoo groaned.

Joshua grinned.

While he didn't know much about Joshua, Mingyu knew the grin he made. He knew it well. It was the type of grin nerds like him knew all too well, for it was the kind of grin bullies made before they teased someone.

From your stories, Mingyu knew Joshua wasn't a bully. He'd never hurt a fly, but Joshua Hong looked like he was about to bully him.

Joshua looked at Wonwoo and said, "Remember when Y/N insisted on helping us for dinner?"

Wonwoo looked tired. 'Joshua hyung seems to remember a lot of things tonight.' Mingyu thought.

"No," Wonwoo answered, hoping Joshua would drop it.

He didn't.

"You absolutely do." Joshua stared.

"No."

Joshua pursed his lips and dramatically turned to Mingyu, "She dropped an entire bowl of Caesar salad."

Wonwoo sighed like a man accepting defeat.

"The salad went everywhere!" Joshua exclaimed, wide-eyed, before laughing uncontrollably.

Wonwoo looked exhausted. Joshua wheezed beside him. Mingyu smiled politely, still drying plates like he wasn't mentally taking psychic damage.

"Y/N cried because she thought she ruined dinner."

Mingyu glanced up, "She cried?"

"She's always been a crier," Joshua said.

"To be fair, she thought your mom was going to get mad." Wonwoo shrugged. Mingyu noted the subtle defense.

Joshua wiped his tears from laughing, "And then Wonwoo spent twenty minutes convincing her she wasn't in trouble."

Mingyu slowly looks back down at the plate in his hand. Of course. Of course, Wonwoo comforted you.

The conversation shifted again. Joshua was still laughing to himself as he dried his hands. Mingyu quietly focused on wiping down the remaining plates.

"Y/N-ah?" Your mother's voice carried through the house from the living room. "Actually—Wonwoo-ya?"

Without stopping or looking up from his tasks, Wonwoo answered, "Ne?"

"Where's the other bottle of wine?"

Mingyu glanced over automatically. Wonwoo didn't. Actually, he didn't pause or think. Wonwoo simply dried his hands, walked out of the kitchen, and disappeared around the corner. Then he came back holding another bottle.

"It was in the cabinet beside the refrigerator," Wonwoo answered as he placed it gently on the coffee table before returning to his spot.

Joshua didn't react, not even a little bit. In fact, nobody in that moment found it strange that Wonwoo knew where wine was stored in a house that wasn't his.

"Joshua-yah!" Your mother called out.

Joshua looked up, "Hm?"

"Can you get my glasses upstairs, please?"

Before Joshua could answer, Wonwoo casually interrupted, "They're on the side table drawer beside the couch."

Joshua immediately nodded and walked out. No hesitation at all. No "how do you know that?". Nothing. Nada.

Apparently, everyone had accepted that Jeon Wonwoo simply knew things. Mingyu blinked. When Joshua returned, he casually wiped the dining table clean.

A minute later.

"Wonwoo-yah!" His father called out. "Did we bring the card deck?"

Wonwoo pointed toward a drawer without even turning around, "It's in the second drawer beside the TV."

"Found it! Thank you!"

Wonwoo hummed in reply. Mingyu was bewildered. He stared, actually stared. At this point, he was starting to wonder if Wonwoo had blueprints of the house memorized somewhere.

Joshua looked over and snorted, "Ah."

Mingyu slowly turned, and Joshua grinned again. The same 'bully grin' from earlier.

"Scary, right?"

Mingyu blinked. "...Hyung?"

Joshua nodded towards Wonwoo as he wrung the little towel he used to wipe the table with on the sink. "That."

Mingyu looked over, and Wonwoo was putting away cups now. He moved around the kitchen like muscle memory had taken over.

"He's been like that forever," Joshua snorted. Mingyu stayed quiet, then Joshua laughed quietly, "Honestly, I think Wonwoo knows this house better than I do."

Mingyu laughed. Small, automatic. It was probably a joke. Joshua thought for a second and nodded to himself, "Actually... No, I think he genuinely might."

Radio silence.

Wonwoo didn't deny anything. He didn't react either. He just continued putting away cups and plates. Both Joshua and Mingyu stared at him.

"I mean, he practically grew up here." Joshua shrugged.

Oh. Mingyu felt like he was about to collapse. He glanced at Joshua, who was busy wiping the table again, and looked down. He didn't know if he could stay in the kitchen any longer. He didn't want to be trapped with your brother and your hot-and-dependent-all-around-ex-boyfriend.

"I'll, uh, I'll go check on Y/N." Mingyu said before leaving the kitchen.

"Don't forget about our swim night!" Wonwoo called out.

"Of course, he'd remind me. Ugh, what's wrong with me?" Mingyu asked himself as he walked up the stairs to your shared room for this vacation.

In truth, he wasn't up for swimming anymore. However, he didn't want to bring down the mood, and he certainly wanted to make a good impression on everyone. With a heavy sigh, he smiled to himself before knocking and entering your room.

CHAPTER 4: FORGIVE ME, FOR I HAVE SINNED

Mingyu rarely prayed. However, since meeting you, he'd come to realize that your family's the religious type. Not the judgmental kind. Not the kind that quoted Bible verses every five minutes or acted like they were better than everyone else. You'd all go to church every Sunday, and you and Joshua would join Catholic Outreach Programs every two months. He also took note that your family loved to donate often—not because anyone asked, but because helping people seemed as natural to you as breathing. You had mentioned before that you and Joshua were raised to do Christ-like things.

In truth, Mingyu noticed it all. He noticed a lot of things about you. So, he started praying too. At first, he wasn't serious because he didn't want to fake things like that. Besides, he wasn't sure if he believed it all. Sometimes he'd stay over at your dorm and find your Bible sitting on your desk with little sticky notes peeking out from the pages. You'd underline passages and tell him your favorite verses. Sometimes you'd drag him to church and hold his hand during prayer.

So he got curious... then intrigued.

-

It was a perfect, sunny afternoon when Mingyu arrived at your dorm. He had been planning a cute date after finals, and you were finally free that day. He knocked on your door, and you quickly opened it before running back. Mingyu was confused.

He entered your dorm and saw all your clothes scattered everywhere. His jaw was wide open as you looked through your dresses, muttering something about wearing your new white dress on Sunday when you go to church with your mom and Joshua.

"Um... did you need more time, baby?" Mingyu asked, making himself comfortable on your bed.

You looked at him with a sweet smile and said, "This will be quick, but can you help me pick a dress?"

"You can wear a trash bag, and I'd love it, and I'd think you'd be so chic. Wear whatever you want, baby." Mingyu smiled.

"I know, but I want it to be perfect. You've been planning this for a while now. Just help me: the pink dress or the yellow dress?" You held up the dresses in question for Mingyu to see. He began to genuinely, thoroughly think about it.

"Hm, I like both of them, but the pink one looks a bit uncomfortable. It's more of a party dress than a date dress. Wear the yellow one." Mingyu said softly.

You sighed in relief, tossing the pink one somewhere, "You're a lifesaver. I'll go get ready in the bathroom!"

"Take your time." Mingyu smiled as he watched you enter the bathroom. He quickly looked around your dorm and began to clean up. Granted, he still had to figure things out, but he was able to clean up quickly. Checking the time on his watch, he figured he should lie down and scroll through his phone.

Reaching for his phone, Mingyu unlocked it and began to scroll through Instagram.

Like.

Like.

Comment.

Like.

Then his phone died. Mingyu groaned in annoyance. He knew you weren't even halfway done. Rubbing his face with his hands, he charged his phone on your bedside table.

Bored out of his mind, Mingyu sprawled out across your bed, just waiting. He was bored. Then, he noticed your Bible sitting on your desk. Mingyu had stared at it for a second, then he stared longer.

"For someone who claimed she wasn't forcing religion onto people, Y/N sure has a lot of tabs sticking out of that thing," Mingyu quietly said to himself, propping up on his elbows to see it better.

Tiny sticky notes peeked out from pages. Some corners were folded. There were little highlights and underlines everywhere. You'd clearly read it a lot.

Naturally, Mingyu did what any curious boyfriend would do. He sat up, crawled onto your bed, reached for the Bible, and opened it on a random page, a random verse.

Mingyu leaned on your headboard and muttered, "Hm.. let's see here. It says 'Genesis' on top. Is the title of the chapter, 'Genesis'? Why are there tiny numbers on each sentence? This is confusing."

Mingyu's eyes scanned each word, each sentence, until he was fully into it. His eyes moved quickly, and he flipped the page with intrigue. Five minutes later, the bathroom door opened.

"Baby, I'm—" You stopped.

First of all, your clothes were now in your closet. Secondly, the floor was clean. Lastly, Mingyu was no longer lying down. He was sitting upright against your headboard. Rigid. Wide-eyed. Holding your Bible with both hands, staring at you. No greeting. No 'wow, you look pretty as always'. Nothing. Then he spoke.

"Oh, my god," Mingyu said, still in shock.

You blinked, "...Hello?"

Mingyu looked genuinely distressed. Like, actually distressed. "What do you MEAN God flooded everything?!"

"Mingyu, honey... what?"

He pointed aggressively at the page, "It says so right here!" Mingyu scanned the page until he found what he was looking for, "Here, listen: 'I am going to bring floodwaters on the earth to destroy all life under the heavens, every creature that has the breath of life in it. Everything on earth will perish.' What the hell? Also, only ONE guy built the ark?! That's not realistic!"

You could only stare at him. Mingyu stared back, "And why are there SO MANY animals?! Did he live on a farm? It didn't say anything, but holy shit— I mean, sorry. Not supposed to say that while holding this Bible, but oh my god??"

Then, you burst into laughter. You had actual tears in your eyes, and Mingyu looked offended immediately.

"Why are you laughing?!" Mingyu screeched.

"Baby... are you reading Noah's Ark?" You laughed as you walked over to your mirror and fixed your earrings.

Mingyu sat there, clutching your Bible like he'd uncovered classified government information, "You're telling me this actually happened?!"

You looked at him through the mirror and slowly turned around, then smiled dangerously. Mingyu narrowed his eyes immediately. He knew that smile. You walked over and gently held his face, "Baby."

Mingyu stared at you.

"A whale swallowed Jonah."

Mingyu was silent. He blinked a few times as his face slowly contorted into confusion, "A WHAT swallowed WHO?"

You folded instantly, bent over laughing. Mingyu looked horrified as he looked at your current form.

"Why are you saying it so casually?!"

You couldn't even answer. You were wheezing. Mingyu looked at the Bible, then back at you, and then back at the Bible.

"You're telling me, there's MORE?" Mingyu was in disbelief. Now, he genuinely wondered what your family does at church every Sunday. Did you read more unhinged stories? Do you all laugh at the stories of these unfortunate characters in the Bible? He didn't know. He's not sure if he wanted to.

You kissed his cheek, "Baby, there are plagues too. Oh! I almost forgot. There's also leprosy."

"Leprosy? What's that?"

You ignored his question. You wanted him to figure it out on his own. It was more fun that way. "Also, Jesus has a close friend named Lazarus."

"Okay? Um, good for Jesus for having a close friend."

"Lazarus died."

"Oh, I'm sorry. That must have—"

"Jesus brought him back to life."

"Jesus did WHAT?"

"Jesus bestied so hard, he brought Lazarus back to life." You chuckled, amused by his reactions. Gosh, you loved your boyfriend so much.

Mingyu slowly closed the Bible, placed it back on your desk, stood up, and grabbed his car keys. "You know what? Let's just go, babe. I need some time away from... that. No offense." Mingyu said.

"None taken." You laughed.

The two of you left your dorm, locking the door behind you. You walked side by side down the hallway, then Mingyu stopped walking. You blinked and turned around. He was staring at you.

"...What kind of church do you people GO TO?"

You gasped dramatically, "Kim Mingyu!"

"No, no, seriously!" He pointed between you and your dorm door. "Every five minutes you're introducing a new problem!"

"Mingyu!"

"First floods, then whales, then DISEASES—"

"MINGYU!"

"And now people are coming back to LIFE?!"

You were practically wheezing now, clinging to his arm while he looked genuinely betrayed. Then he looked at you, really looked at you. He looked at the way your eyes had disappeared from laughing too hard, the way you leaned on him for support, and the tears gathering at the corners of your eyes.

And despite the Biblical crisis, his confusion, the absolute betrayal, Mingyu started laughing too. You looked happy, and Mingyu had always been a little helpless when it came to you.

If it was true that God created everything—if He made people meet and paths cross and things happen for reasons beyond understanding, then Mingyu was really, really thankful He made you.

And somehow, even more thankful that He gave you to him.

-

Back then, loving you felt easy. Of course, relationships weren't easy, at least not completely. You were insanely stubborn. Mingyu was overly dramatic. You fought over stupid things and made up just as quickly.

But loving you? That part had always been easy. Every time Mingyu looked at you, you never questioned it. He never had to wonder where he stood. He never had to wonder if he belonged beside you.

Tonight felt different.

He was supposed to be getting ready for tonight's swimming, but he was too busy staring at the night sky outside the resort, hands shoved deep into the pockets of his hoodie. The pool lights reflected softly against the water nearby. Somewhere outside, he could hear laughter. Familiar voices. Yours. Joshua's. Wonwoo's.

Tradition again. Always tradition.

Mingyu swallowed. Lately, he had started noticing something ugly about himself. Every memory, every story, every room, every conversation, somehow led back to Wonwoo.

Mingyu hated that he noticed. He hated it even more because part of him wondered if God was punishing him for something.

For falling in love with you. For dating you. For loving someone that had belonged to someone else first.

"God, did You really give her to me at all?" Mingyu chuckled to himself bitterly. "Or am I just keeping the seat warm until Wonwoo hyung comes back again?"

CHAPTER 5: JOSHUA HONG TALKS A LOT, NO?

The pool is quieter now. Everyone else is still around, but the energy softened. The late-night tradition was settling into something slower. Mingyu had left you by the pool because he was tired and wanted to shower. You didn't mind.

Now, you were just in the pool. Not really swimming, but you just stood there, rested your arms on the ledge, and looked at the view. Being the nosy older brother that he is, Joshua noticed you first. He swam to you and stayed beside you. Both of you were silent for a while.

"You're thinking too loud," he said casually.

You glanced at him and blinked, "That's not a thing."

"It is when you're my sister." He looked at you. "You can lie to mom, but you can't lie to me."

You looked away, and he sighed, putting a hand on your shoulder, "Did he say something to you? I'm not scared to kick him out of this trip. Just tell me. Did he make you uncomfortable? Did he force you to do something you didn't want to do? He's way taller than me, but I can strangle him."

"It's not that," you sighed.

"Throw me a bone here, Y/N! I'm not a mind reader. I'm just a very concerned older brother because you've never been like this before. Not even when you were with Wonwoo. So, tell me. What's wrong?" Joshua pushed your hair back gently.

"He's been weird all day. He keeps zoning out. Like, he's here, but he's not here. He's physically here, but he's mentally checked out. I keep asking him what's wrong, but I know he's lying. I just didn't want to confront him on the spot because he could be overwhelmed." You confessed.

"Overwhelmed?" Joshua's brows knitted in confusion.

"Well, if I were him, I'd be overwhelmed too. Imagine being invited on a two-week vacation at a beach resort with people you barely know." You pointed out.

"He knows you and Wonwoo."

"Yes, but that's not the point." You sighed, looking at your hands and glanced up at him, "He just... he kept looking like he didn't belong here. He kept looking at us like he was looking at a men's Dior winter coat through the glass."

"An outsider always looking in," Joshua concluded with a nod. "Yeah, I noticed."

"You did?" You frowned. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"Sweetheart, I told you before, and I'll say it again: if you're having a conflict within the relationship, never bring in other people who could poison your mind. I don't know much about Mingyu, so it'd be unfair of me to just jump right into conclusions without getting to know him first. It'd also be unfair to you because I meddled with something that doesn't concern me. YOU are my concern, not your relationship." Joshua said softly.

"Your relationship concerns should only be between you and Mingyu. Only come to us if your relationship's problem involves us. Right now, it's just you and him." He added.

"What do you think of him?" You asked.

He looked at you with pursed lips, "In my honest opinion?"

"Yes."

"I think Mingyu is trying too hard to fit in. I appreciate his efforts, but it's just painful to watch. He looks like a kicked puppy. He's been trying hard all day. Then he spirals by himself. Always comparing, always thinking too much. As your brother, it makes me kind of annoyed because you're right there, and he's not even paying much attention to you because of his insecurities." Joshua ranted as you nodded slowly.

Joshua looked at you and sighed, shoulders dropping, "I think he's losing to someone who isn't even competing, sweetheart."

He pulled you in for a tight hug, which you reciprocated. "All of you should talk." He mumbled before pulling away. He held you in arm's reach, looking at your disheartened expression.

"But you should talk to him first.... before he talks to Wonwoo."

Just as Joshua was about to swim away and leave the pool, he paused and turned around to face you, "He likes you a lot, you know. Like... a lot, a lot."

"You think so?"

"Y/N, if he's willing to come out here with your family and your ex's family for two weeks, all because of a tradition that started way back when, he's totally committed to you all the way." Joshua smiled.

"Good night, Y/N. Love you."

"Love you too, Shua. Good night."

When he left the pool area, you sighed to yourself and got out of the pool too. You grabbed your towel and dried yourself before going up to your room and shower. When you arrived, Mingyu was already asleep. You gave him a kiss on his forehead and went straight to your bathroom to shower.

When you closed the door, Mingyu's eyes opened a bit before smiling a small smile and drifting back to sleep.

Morning came too easily. The resort was already awake by the time Mingyu was. Sunlight spilled across the curtains in uneven stripes, warm but forgiving. Somewhere outside, waves broke against the shore like nothing had ever been wrong.

Mingyu sat still for a while before moving. He didn't feel well-rested. He didn't feel worse either. He felt... empty.

Like something had changed, and he hadn't caught up to it yet. When he finally stepped out, Joshua was already there. Waiting—not literally. Joshua never “waited” for people. He just happened to be present at the exact moment they needed him. He glanced at Mingyu once, briefly.

Mingyu bowed, "Good morning."

Joshua waved him off and politely greeted him as well. He gestured for Mingyu to sit on the chair next to him, and Mingyu nervously did so.

"This is a really beautiful place. Thanks for inviting me." Mingyu said softly.

"No problem," Joshua said.

"This house is beautiful, too. I'm sure it must've cost a fortune to rent it out for two weeks." Mingyu mentioned, leaning back on the chair.

Now, Joshua swore he's not one of those people, but he slightly took offense. "We own this house, Mingyu." Joshua corrected.

Mingyu was embarrassed. "I'm so-"

"It's okay," Joshua gave him a polite smile, "You didn't know."

Then there was silence. It wasn't awkward, and it wasn't bad. It was just... silent.

"So, um, how are you?" Mingyu asked awkwardly. He wanted to have a decent relationship with Joshua. He wasn't asking for a close relationship like Joshua's relationship with Wonwoo. Mingyu just wanted to have a normal relationship with Joshua, normal enough to know that you can leave him alone with Joshua.

Joshua looked at him and nodded, "I'm good. How are you?"

"I'm good, too," Mingyu replied.

Using this as an opening, Joshua fully turned his body to face Mingyu. "No, you're not." Joshua countered.

"What—"

"Let's talk." Joshua said, "Properly, this time."

"Um, alright." Mingyu was confused, but he kind of felt that Joshua knew something. Especially when Joshua asked if he was okay at the beach yesterday. Mingyu could only gulp nervously.

Joshua, being the professional and polite guy that he was, thought of proper words to direct his points. Eventually, he settled for something simple. "You've been tense since yesterday. Have we done something to make you feel this way?" Joshua asked, keeping his tone light.

Mingyu's eyes widened. He absolutely DID NOT want your family to think they made him uncomfortable. Mingyu shook his head, "No, of course not."

"It's Wonwoo, isn't it?" Joshua stated.

"N-No..."

"Don't lie to me, Mingyu. You kept looking at Wonwoo before you looked at my sister." Joshua huffed, "One might think it's Wonwoo you're dating."

"It's not what it-"

"Oh, I know it's not what it looks like." Joshua cut him off. "I just want you to be honest about your feelings. I know you're bothered."

"I'm just..." Mingyu stuttered, "It's not a big deal, hyung. I was just... overwhelmed. Yeah, I was overwhelmed."

"Bullshit." Joshua was deadpanned. He stared at Mingyu and sighed as he leaned back against his chair, rubbing his face tiredly.

"Mingyu," he said more softly, "I've known Wonwoo almost my entire life. I know the way people act around him."

Mingyu nodded as Joshua spoke.

"I get it. Wonwoo's a catch. He's a gentleman, he's soft spoken, very kind, very level-headed, and very loyal." Joshua added.

Mingyu stayed silent, poking his tongue through his cheek.

"And I know what insecurity looks like, too," Joshua stated, eyes focused on Mingyu. "Look at me when I'm speaking to you, please."

Mingyu looked at Joshua slowly, feeling slightly scared. Joshua sensed his fear and sighed.

"You think everyone's comparing you to him," Joshua continued. "You think every story about him is secretly a reminder that you're not him."

Mingyu's jaw tightened.

"No one is doing that to you except yourself, Mingyu-yah," Joshua said, matter-of-factly. Mingyu frowned. He didn't know whether he should be offended.

Joshua gave him a small smile, "Mingyu, you're a catch, too. Heck, so am I, but that's not the point."

"Then what is the point?" Mingyu sulked, making Joshua chuckle lightly.

"The point is," Joshua shifted in his seat to make himself more comfortable, "you were too busy looking and analyzing Wonwoo, that you failed to notice my sister. You were too busy thinking about Wonwoo being the 'perfect' boyfriend to my sister that you didn't even allow us to get to know you."

Mingyu's gaze softened, "Y-You wanted to get to know me?"

"Of course!" Joshua chuckled, "You're my sister's boyfriend. Of course, we want to get to know you. Mom and I were skeptical, but Wonwoo vouched for you, you know? He was very persuasive; he said you were good at everything."

"I bet you were disappointed, huh?"

"A bit," Joshua admitted. "Wonwoo told me to give you a chance. As for mom, she's just really nice, and she saw how happy Y/N is, so that's enough for her."

Mingyu laughed once, but there was nothing happy about it.

"I know I'm being insane." He rubbed his face harshly. "I know she's right there, and I know she loves me, but sometimes…" He swallowed hard.

Joshua watched him carefully, "Sometimes what?"

"Never mind," Mingyu shook his head and looked away.

"Spit it out, Gyu. The Bible said that the truth will set you free," Joshua said, "and don't look away when we're speaking. Please look at me, it's very rude not to."

Mingyu looked at him, "Sometimes, I see him in the back of my mind." Mingyu confessed. "Then I ask myself if she sees him too whenever she looks at me."

Joshua stayed silent as he nodded, beginning to understand where Mingyu was coming from.

"And sometimes I wonder if she wishes she were holding him instead of me," Mingyu admitted.

"So now the truth comes out." Joshua chuckled. "Thank you for telling the truth."

Mingyu felt some weight being lifted off his shoulders. Joshua nodded slowly.

"Wonwoo was right," Joshua murmured. Mingyu stiffened, staring at Joshua.

"…What do you mean?" Mingyu asked quietly.

Joshua glanced at him, "When Wonwoo found out you and Y/N were dating, he told me something."

Mingyu's heart dropped. Joshua leaned back slightly against his chair.

"He said you were going to keep comparing yourself to him." Joshua chuckled lightly. "Said you'd probably drive yourself insane eventually."

"Oh... he did?"

"Mhm," Joshua nodded. "Then he called me out for saying things about you because frankly, I had said some... unpleasant things about you at the beach yesterday. I said that you weren't Wonwoo and that you could never reach the standard he set."

Mingyu could feel himself panicking, but Joshua reached out and touched his arm. Joshua smiled, "But Wonwoo was right. You're not Wonwoo, you're Mingyu. You love her differently, but it works. You'll set your own standard, and because Y/N is so happy, I'd like to think that you're doing a pretty good job."

Mingyu unintentionally gave Joshua puppy eyes.

"I think what you're feeling is normal," Joshua admitted. "Honestly, if I were in your position, I'd probably feel weird too."

Mingyu sighed in relief. He genuinely thought he was going insane.

"But the difference is," Joshua continued as he slowly moved his hand away from Mingyu's arm, "I'd talk to him instead of suffering in silence."

There was a pause.

"He was your best friend first, no?"

Mingyu swallowed hard.

"He's probably wondering why you're pulling away from him, too."

Mingyu sighed. Joshua was right. He was too blinded by everything he was feeling that he failed to live in the moment. He was too worried about being the "next Wonwoo," but he had absolutely nothing to be worried about because you loved him anyway.

"You should talk to my sister, too. She opened up to me last night, you know." Joshua casually mentioned. "But I won't meddle about that. Besides, your relationship isn't my concern, Y/N is. Treat her right and we'll be just fine, Mingyu."

"Does she hate me?" Mingyu asked in a small voice.

"She could never hate you, Gyu. Y/N's in love. It's so obvious. She's practically glowing and healthy. I honestly love that for her." Joshua confessed.

"You think so?"

"I know so. Now, go." Joshua shooed him away, "Take her out. Let her tour you around. She's been wanting to do that since we invited you. Talk to her then, talk to Wonwoo."

"I will." Mingyu stood up, "Thanks, hyung."

"Don't mention it." Joshua shrugged. "Oh, and Gyu?"

"Hm?"

"Welcome to the family."

CHAPTER 6: "I WAS LOOKING AT HIM, THINKING I COULD NEVER BE LIKE THAT" ... "BUT IT'S YOU WHO I WANT, AND I WISH YOU COULD SEE THAT"

Joshua sat in comfortable silence, gazing at the early morning view in front of them. The sound of the ocean, soft chatters of people in the area, and a few dogs barking in the distance were the only sounds present. Sending Mingyu off to look for you was the best decision he's ever made today.

Knowing you, you'd be walking by the beach. You always loved walking by the beach so early in the morning. Joshua chuckled to himself as he thought of you walking by the beach with some "aesthetic song" playing in your mind. To add, Joshua guessed that it's most likely 'Mariners Apartment Complex' by Lana Del Rey.

The door opened, and Joshua glanced up to see Wonwoo with two cups of coffee. "Figured you haven't had coffee yet," Wonwoo said, handing one of the cups to Joshua and sitting on the seat where Mingyu sat.

'How ironic,' Joshua thought.

Sensing something weird, Wonwoo looked at him and asked, "What's on your mind?"

Joshua shrugged, taking a sip of his coffee, "Nothing. It's just.. ironic."

"What's so ironic?"

"Well," Joshua started, a small, amused smile forming on his lips, "it's just that Mingyu is currently in your seat."

"Oh, hyung." Wonwoo sighed, "We've been over this-"

"Now, you're on his." Joshua nodded towards the chair Wonwoo currently occupied.

"I don't get it."

Joshua laughed, "It's just so funny. Mingyu sat there earlier. We had a talk. It was nice. Now, you're sitting in his seat."

Wonwoo playfully rolled his eyes, "Ha ha, very funny. Is that how old guys joke?"

"I'm not THAT old!"

Now, it was Wonwoo's turn to laugh.

-

"You lose your way, just take my hand. You're lost at sea, then I'll command your boat to me again," You sang quietly to yourself.

'Mariners Apartment Complex' was always your go-to song if you wanted to have a moment to yourself. It makes you feel like the main character in a book you never seem to finish reading. Well, you kind of are. After all, your story isn't finished yet.

"Don't go too far, right where you are, that's where I am," You continued.

"I'm your man," a familiar voice finished for you. You turned your head and smiled when you saw Mingyu. Immediately, you cling to his arm, earning a chuckle from him.

"You look very beautiful, honey," Mingyu greeted sweetly, kissing the top of your head. "How's your morning so far?"

"It's great now that you're here," You smiled sincerely. "Did you sleep well last night? I know yesterday must've been overwhelming for you. It was your first day, after all. I'm sorry if I didn't check on you enough."

"Don't apologize, baby," Mingyu replied. "I slept well, thank you. Yes, I was overwhelmed, but I think I managed."

You stopped walking and pulled back slightly to get a good look at him. Mingyu looked at you, too. As he really looked at you, he began to feel a little ache in his chest. He missed you.

"You know," you started, "I really missed you yesterday. You were... kind of zoning in and out."

Mingyu sighed, "I know. I'm sorry, honey."

"Penny for your thought?" You looked at him with a small smile. Mingyu thought you were so cute.

"We should sit down for this," Mingyu said.

Sitting on the sand with you between Mingyu's legs with his arms wrapped around you, you began to relax and lean back on his chest. Mingyu felt relaxed, too, but he grew nervous about what he was about to tell you.

Unfortunately for him, you noticed immediately.

"You keep doing that," you murmured softly.

"Hm?"

"Thinking too hard." You leaned your head back slightly against his shoulder. "Your eyebrows scrunch together every time, and you're always so quiet."

Mingyu laughed quietly through his nose, "Sorry."

"You don't have to apologize for thinking."

"No," he sighed, tightening his arms around you a little. "But maybe I should apologize for the things I've been thinking about."

That caught your attention. What he said confirmed your thoughts. He was bothered and distracted about something. You slowly turned your head to look at him properly. Mingyu avoided your eyes at first, staring out at the ocean instead.

"Mingyu."

He gulped.

"I think..." He paused, trying to organize his thoughts. "I think I got so stuck in my own head that I forgot how to just be with you."

Your expression softened instantly. "You never have to try so hard around me," you whispered.

"I know that now." Mingyu laughed weakly. "Joshua hyung yelled at me this morning."

That made you snort.

"He did not yell at you. He could never yell, no matter how mad he is."

"Well, he spiritually yelled at me."

You laughed softly, and Mingyu felt his chest ache again because there it was—that sound he missed. That warmth. You.

"I've been weird," he admitted quietly. "And unfair."

"You've been overwhelmed," you corrected gently.

Mingyu shook his head. "No. Overwhelmed is part of it, but..." He exhaled slowly. "I think this started way before this trip."

You frowned slightly. "What do you mean?"

Mingyu stared quietly at the waves. Then, he laughed once to himself. "I don't think I ever told you this before."

There was a pause.

"I remember when you and Wonwoo hyung broke up."

You froze slightly in his arms. Mingyu noticed immediately. Rubbing your arms up and down, he quickly said, "I'm not bringing it up to hurt you. I just... I think that's the first time I realized how much space you took up in people's lives."

You stayed quiet, listening carefully.

Mingyu lowered his gaze to the sand.

"It was a few days before his graduation," he murmured softly. "And suddenly, you just weren't there anymore."

Suddenly, Mingyu was seventeen again.

It was a few days before Wonwoo's high school graduation when Mingyu noticed it. No, he didn't notice the breakup itself. He didn't bother learning about Wonwoo's relationship status. However, he did take note of your absence.

At first, he didn't think much about it. He was seventeen and oblivious, after all. He was more concerned about basketball practice, schoolwork, and whether or not he could convince Wonwoo to go eat after school. Eventually, Mingyu noticed something felt off. He realized you weren't around anymore.

Normally, you'd wait outside Wonwoo's classroom after school. Sometimes, you'd sit with them during lunch. Other times, you'd quietly do homework beside Wonwoo while Mingyu complained dramatically about his life.

You were just... there... every day. You were always clinging to Wonwoo like there's no tomorrow. Then suddenly, you weren't.

Mingyu remembered standing beside Wonwoo near the school gates while students flooded past them. "Y/N's not coming?" Mingyu asked casually.

Wonwoo didn't answer immediately. He just adjusted the strap of his bag and kept walking.

Mingyu blinked and quickly followed after him. "Did you guys fight?"

Still no response from Wonwoo. Now Mingyu was confused. Usually, Wonwoo answered him immediately, even when annoyed.

"Hyung?"

Wonwoo stopped walking and finally looked at him. Mingyu froze. Wonwoo looked exhausted. Not physically, but emotionally. Like someone had reached into his chest and pulled something important out of him.

"We broke up," Wonwoo said quietly.

Mingyu's eyes widened slightly. "Oh."

It wasn't that Mingyu couldn't believe it. The two of you had been together for so long that Mingyu genuinely never imagined you apart. Plus, he knew yours and Wonwoo's history. In his mind, you and Wonwoo were... endgame.

Wonwoo looked away again. Then, very softly, he said, "It's better this way. I'll be off to college soon. I'll be too busy adjusting, and she'll be too busy with senior year; you'll be too busy with senior year, too. It's just... It's just not meant for us, I suppose."

"But-"

"Mingyu-ya, please," Wonwoo said, tears threatening to fall from his eyes. "It's better this way." He repeated before walking off again.

Mingyu trailed behind him. Even at seventeen, Mingyu knew that was probably a lie.

When senior year came, Wonwoo was settled in college. Mingyu grew closer to you without even meaning to. He was there for you throughout your healing process. His friendship with Wonwoo took a pause because of Wonwoo's busy schedule at college.

Then, Mingyu realized he couldn't function without you. He would always look for you, and he'd always feel a sense of relief when he found you. He realized that he had been feeling that way ever since he met you. He didn't understand it at all. He's never felt it before.

Until one day, you hugged him goodbye when he walked you home. His heart flipped, and he had butterflies in his stomach. It finally sank in that he has liked you ever since he met you.

But, oh, how terrible he felt.

His best friend loved you. So much. You loved his best friend, too.

He felt like a traitor, but how can he resist you when you make his day brighter? So, it came as a surprise to him when you returned his feelings and eventually became his girlfriend.

Mingyu blinked slowly as the memory faded. "It's stupid," he murmured.

"No," you said softly.

He sighed. "Back then, I thought I was sad because Wonwoo hyung was sad."

His arms tightened around you slightly. "But now I think..." Mingyu swallowed hard. "Part of me noticed you were gone, too."

You stayed quiet for a long moment. Not because you didn't know what to say, but because your heart hurt for him. Mingyu had been carrying this for years. Quietly. Secretly. Alone.

Slowly, you turned around in his arms until you were facing him properly. His eyes avoided yours immediately. That alone nearly broke you.

"Mingyu," you whispered softly, holding his face gently. "Look at me."

He tried. God, he tried, but the moment his eyes met yours, they started watering instead.

"I know it's stupid," he laughed weakly, embarrassed. "I know it sounds insane."

"It doesn't."

"It does," Mingyu insisted quietly. "Because he's my best friend."

His voice cracked slightly on the last two words. "And I love you so much that sometimes it scares me."

Your expression crumbled instantly. Mingyu finally looked at you fully this time, eyes glassy and exhausted.

"I kept looking at him since yesterday," he admitted. "And every time I did, I kept thinking..." He swallowed hard. "I could never be like that."

Your brows pulled together painfully.

"I could never know your family the way he does. I could never fit into this place the way he does." Mingyu laughed bitterly. "Even Joshua hyung knows him better than me."

"Mingyu—"

"And then I started thinking stupid things." His voice grew quieter. "Like maybe when you look at me, part of you still looks for him too."

You looked genuinely heartbroken now, and Mingyu felt awful, but he owed it to your relationship to be honest.

"Sometimes I see him in the back of my mind," Mingyu confessed shakily. "Then I ask myself if you see him whenever you look me in the eyes."

A tear slipped down his face before he could stop it.

"And sometimes…" He inhaled sharply. "Sometimes I wonder if you wish you were holding him instead of me."

Your eyes filled with tears almost instantly. For a second, you genuinely couldn't speak. All this time, Mingyu had been loving you while secretly believing he was standing in someone else's place. That thought shattered something inside you.

"Oh, baby," you whispered brokenly. You cupped his face carefully, like he was something fragile. "Is that really what you've been thinking this whole time?"

Mingyu laughed shakily, embarrassed now that the words were finally out in the open. "It sounds pathetic when I say it out loud, huh?"

"No." Your voice cracked immediately. "No, it sounds heartbreaking. I'm sorry for making you think you couldn't tell me, but I understand you completely."

Another tear slipped down Mingyu's face, and you wiped it away quickly with your thumb.

"I need you to listen to me, okay?" you whispered.

Mingyu nodded weakly.

"I loved Wonwoo once."

Mingyu's face fell slightly despite himself.

"But I'm very much in love with you."

The difference hit him immediately.

"Really?" Mingyu cried. He couldn't help it.

You nodded, tears streaming down your face as well, "Yes, really. I'm in love with you, Kim Mingyu. I'm sorry for making you feel this way."

"No, I'm sorry for being stuck in my head instead of telling you how I feel."

You and Mingyu sat there, holding each other tight, as if one of you would disappear. Mingyu cried, and you did too. When both of you calmed down, Mingyu wiped your tears away before he wiped away his.

"I was looking at him, thinking I could never be like that," Mingyu said softly.

"But it's you who I want, and I wish you could see that."

"I see that now," Mingyu smiled and kissed your forehead. "I'm sorry for only seeing it now."

"It's okay." You smiled and kissed his lips. He gingerly kissed back and gently cupped your face. The kiss you shared wasn't lustful at all. It was sweet and light. After a few minutes, you pulled away and smiled.

Mingyu stared at you with a small smile etched on his face. He felt immensely better, but he knew he had to talk to Wonwoo.

"What's on your mind?" You asked, running a hand through Mingyu's hair.

"I just realized that I have to talk with Wonwoo hyung." Mingyu sighed. "Do you think he hates me?"

"Honey, trust me when I say this: Wonwoo could never hate you." You stated. You knew Wonwoo like the back of your hand. He could never hate the people close to him. Mingyu was—no, Mingyu is one of them.

"You think so?"

"I know so." You confirmed. "How about you relax first, hm? Let's walk around first. Then, talk to him tonight, after dinner."

"That sounds great, actually. My head hurts from crying."

CHAPTER 7: BEST FRIENDS DON'T HURT EACH OTHER, BUT BEST FRIENDS DON'T BETRAY EACH OTHER EITHER

By the time the two of you got back to the house, the sky had already begun turning orange. Your slippers scraped lightly against the wooden floors as you entered the beach house hand-in-hand with Mingyu. The moment Joshua spotted both of you, his eyes narrowed immediately.

"Oh," he said slowly. "You guys talked."

You immediately pointed at him accusingly. "Don't start."

Joshua raised both hands defensively. "I didn't even say anything!"

"You were about to."

"I absolutely was."

"Ugh, I know you so well, Joshua Hong."

"Well, I'm your very handsome older brother, Y/N Hong."

Mingyu laughed quietly beside you, and Joshua paused for a second. The sound caught him off guard. Not because Mingyu never laughed, but because this one sounded easy. Natural.

"You laughed," Joshua mentioned, eyes focused on Mingyu. He half expected Mingyu to cower in his gaze, but surprisingly, Mingyu laughed even more.

"Your dynamic is very funny. I'm really grateful to witness it. Thank you again for extending me an invitation." Mingyu smiled and bowed.

Joshua exchanged a brief glance with you before smirking slightly to himself. He was proud.

"Anyway," he stretched lazily from the couch, "go shower and change into something comfortable. Mom's making dinner, and apparently, we're all required to participate in Family Bonding Time tonight."

"Ahh, yes. The dreaded "night 2" of our trip. Why must they always do this?" You groaned.

"It's part of tradition, Y/Nie." Joshua sighed, not excited either. "You do know that we'll be the ones carrying this tradition, right? All our kids will be here, and we'll be the ones drinking wine after dinner."

"That sounds threatening," Mingyu muttered.

"It is." Joshua nodded.

From the kitchen, your mother yelled, "Joshua!"

Joshua grimaced immediately, "See?"

You burst into laughter while Mingyu smiled properly for what felt like the first time since arriving.

And somehow, the entire house felt lighter because of it.

Dinner felt lighter tonight, and Mingyu noticed it immediately. This time, when Joshua teased him, he teased back. When your mother asked him to help bring drinks outside, he didn't panic internally before standing up. Even Wonwoo's father had gotten him involved in some ridiculous conversation about beach resorts and grilled meat.

And for the first time since arriving, Mingyu laughed without forcing it. More importantly, he stopped looking for Wonwoo every five seconds. Instead, he looked at you. And every time he did, you smiled back immediately.

On the other hand, Wonwoo noticed Mingyu's sudden change. It was refreshing to see the Mingyu he once knew. Whenever Wonwoo would look at him, he'd often see the shy, nerdy Mingyu who stood by the door of the gym to watch basketball practices. In some way, Wonwoo could still see that version despite having a few changes.

The old Mingyu didn't bother with skincare, but the new Mingyu seemed to be very excited about sharing his routine with Joshua and his younger brother.

The old Mingyu didn't care about his body proportions. If it were up to old Mingyu, he'd stay the same, but the new Mingyu just invited Joshua to the gym he frequents and even showed off a little bit of his arms, which made the moms (and you) swoon.

Despite all that, Wonwoo could still see how Mingyu would be shy when offered more bulgogi. He could see that while he was being talkative, he still wasn't confident enough about what he was going to say. Somehow, that made Wonwoo feel at home.

Wonwoo was really proud of Mingyu. He just wished Mingyu would see that.

By the time dinner ended, Mingyu felt strangely calm. The kitchen slowly filled with the familiar sounds of cleanup. Plates clinked softly. Your mother and Wonwoo's parents disappeared into the living room. Joshua kept stealing pieces of fruit while helping to dry the dishes, despite being scolded repeatedly.

Wonwoo stood beside the sink quietly rinsing glasses. Mingyu watched him for a moment.

"It's now or never," Mingyu thought to himself. Taking a deep breath, he asked, "Hyung?"

Wonwoo glanced over immediately. "Hm?"

Mingyu shoved his hands into his pockets awkwardly. "Do you.. wanna drink outside for a bit... later?"

There was only a brief pause. Wonwoo looked at him carefully. Not suspicious. Not upset. Just attentive. Then he nodded once, "Sure."

Wonwoo wasn't dumb. He knew what was about to happen. It wasn't just a drink. It was more than that.

Night 2 of this two-week vacation was a hit. The whole family played charades that somehow turned into a round of "What Are You Most Grateful For?" and "What Bad Habits Do You Want To Get Rid Of?" Mingyu was most surprised because everyone listened with no judgment. If he did that with his family, he'd probably get a scolding afterward.

As the house grew quieter, the parents had gone upstairs first. Wonwoo's younger brother went up next. Soon, Joshua followed after claiming he was "emotionally exhausted from being everyone's therapist". You laughed at that from the living room while Mingyu nearly choked on his drink.

Eventually, even you grew sleepy.

"You coming?" you asked softly, standing near the staircase.

Mingyu looked up from the couch. For a split second, guilt flashed across his face before he smiled gently.

"In a bit, baby."

You nodded sleepily, completely unaware. Walking over, you pressed a sweet kiss against his lips before heading upstairs. Wonwoo watched the interaction quietly from the dining area. He smiled to himself, knowing that you were in good hands.

The moment your bedroom door closed upstairs, silence settled over the house again. Mingyu inhaled slowly, then stood up. Wonwoo followed him outside without needing to be asked twice.

The night air felt colder now. Waves crashed softly against the shore nearby while the wooden deck creaked beneath their weight. Mingyu sat down first, beer bottle hanging loosely from his hand. Wonwoo sat beside him. Not too close, not too far. For a while, neither of them spoke.

Mingyu stared ahead at the dark ocean while Wonwoo quietly took a sip from his drink. It almost reminded Mingyu of high school again.

Late nights after basketball practice. Convenience store ramen. Walking home together in silence that never felt awkward. Going to the mall on weekends when Wonwoo is free. Playing games together until god knows when.

Back then, Mingyu thought nothing could ever come between them; that nothing could ever become strange between them. Now, he didn't even know where to begin.

As observant as ever, Wonwoo saw the conflict in Mingyu's eyes. He also noted that Mingyu was swirling his drink a lot, a nervous habit. Wonwoo noticed that Mingyu bit his bottom lip longer than usual. He's worried that it might bleed. If Mingyu wasn't going to say the elephant in the room, Wonwoo would give him a nudge.

"You can still tell me anything, Mingyu-yah," Wonwoo said in a soft voice. Mingyu looked at him in surprise.

"What?"

Wonwoo fully turned to look at him and said, "I can tell that you want to say something or ask something. Just go ahead. I'm not a stranger, Mingyu. I was once your best friend."

Mingyu didn't know where to begin. He was so caught up in everything in his head that he blurted out something else instead.

"Do you remember when we used to walk home together after practice?"

Wonwoo smiled faintly, "You complained the entire time."

"Because you never bought me food."

Wonwoo laughed quietly. "Well, I was saving up for dates. I didn't exactly have a job back then. I was depending on allowance."

Mingyu's smile slowly disappeared. "I miss that."

"Me, too." Wonwoo smiled fondly. "We really were attached at the hip before. Contrary to belief, I didn't have a lot of friends. I kept a small circle, and part of that circle is you. You're my best friend."

Mingyu laughed quietly, but there was nothing happy about it.

"That's kind of the problem, hyung."

Wonwoo stayed silent, tilting his head a little as he kept his gaze on Mingyu. Mingyu stared down at his drink. "I think I forgot how to be your friend somewhere along the way."

As soon as Mingyu said those words, tears began to brim in his eyes. He really didn't want to cry in front of his hyung, but he couldn't help it. He felt terrible.

"Why would you think that?" Wonwoo asked. He wasn't born last night. Of course, he had an inkling of what Mingyu was trying to say, but he wanted Mingyu to man up and say it directly. He wanted him to elaborate so they could talk like grown-ups. Most of all, he wanted to ease his best friend's pain. Wonwoo knew that Mingyu wouldn't enjoy his relationship with you if he were stuck with whatever's going on in his head.

"I felt like I stole something that was never mine to touch," Mingyu said through his tears. He looked at Wonwoo, who just nodded for him to continue.

"When she started coming around, I was nervous at first. I'd usually just hear about her, but seeing her in the flesh, I was weirdly happy. I guess I was very happy for you because you found someone you connected with at such a young age. Your eyes would light up every time she'd walk in the room. You looked at her like she hung the stars. She was your whole world."

Wonwoo smiled at that and nodded for him to continue again. It was true. Wonwoo really did look at you that way. You were his first love, the love of his life. Now, he looked at you fondly. Kind of how people look at their first love.

"I didn't know when it stopped being admiration and started becoming something worse. I genuinely kept hoping it would go away. Do you know how awful I felt the first time I realized I liked her?"

"Awful?" Wonwoo asked with furrowed brows. "How come?"

"You were heartbroken, hyung. And I was sitting there realizing I couldn't stop thinking about her or how she's doing or how heartbroken she must feel. Then, when it was just me and Y/N for senior year, we got closer. Then I just.. I started falling for her, hyung." Mingyu sighed, setting down his drink and running a hand through his hair. Wonwoo noted that Mingyu was frustrated and feeling many different things at once.

"I felt like I stole something that was never mine to touch." Mingyu sighed, not even bothering to wipe his tears away. "Every time I looked at her, I felt happy at first... then guilty right after because I'd see you in the back of my mind. Then I think of you hating me for loving someone you once loved; someone who was the love of your life."

"You really thought I'd hate you for that?" Wonwoo almost scoffed. "Mingyu, I was sad because we broke up. Not because she belonged to me. Y/N's a person. You love her. That's not betrayal. The betrayal was that you thought I'd hate you for having feelings you couldn't control."

"You started looking at me like I was someone to be afraid of. I kept wondering why you stopped calling me. I missed my best friend before I ever missed being someone's boyfriend. Do you know how lonely that sounds?" Wonwoo sighed. All his pent-up feelings were finally being released. However, he needed to let it out one by one.

Mingyu cried even more.

"What sucks is that you trusted me, hyung. I thought being happy with her automatically made me a terrible person. Yesterday, every time you were nice to me, I felt worse. I was invited here, but I felt like it was required, not because I'm actually wanted."

Wonwoo shifted in his seat to turn fully and look at him. "Mingyu, I vouched for you because I knew you'd love her properly. Joshua's hard to convince, but when I told him about you, he allowed it because he knew it would make her happy. Joshua is very much in tune with his sister, and I am too. You think I can't tell when she's happy?"

Mingyu could only look at him through his tears.

"Before she was my girlfriend, she was my best friend. She still is. She's very happy with you, Mingyu. As her best friend, I'm very happy to see her happy. That's what matters. What hurt me the most was that you stopped being my best friend long before you started dating her."

"I felt like I needed to compete with you," Mingyu cried, cheeks red and lips pouting.

"You were never competing with me, Mingyu." Wonwoo shook his head. "I told this to Joshua hyung, and now I'm telling you the same thing: I never wanted another version of me for her. The way we love her is different. She chose you. I think you punished yourself more than I ever could, and I'm so sorry that you had to go through that pain alone. Best friends are supposed to hurt with each other, not away from each other."

Silence.

Mingyu covered his face with his hands and just started bawling his eyes out. Wonwoo could feel a pang in his chest as he watched his best friend break down in front of him. 'He must've held that in for a long time', Wonwoo thought.

When Mingyu calmed down a little bit, Wonwoo took a deep breath and said, "If I'm being honest, when Y/N told Joshua about you, and he relayed it to me, I was kind of... mad. I'm only human, after all. I get sad and mad, too. For a few weeks, I was in a bad mood, and I felt betrayed—"

"See?! I betrayed you—"

"But I didn't let it linger, Mingyu." Wonwoo cut him off. If he didn't, he knew Mingyu would spiral once more. "I chose to let it go because I realized that she's a person who deserves to be loved, just. Like. You. Granted, it took some time for me to move on, but if both of you love each other so well, who am I to stop it?"

Mingyu groaned in frustration, "But I liked her while you were dating, hyung. Albeit unknowingly, but still. I was looking for her all the time, and I— I stared at her, too."

Wonwoo snickered, "You didn't think I'd notice? Of course, I knew. I trusted both of you. I know you well enough to know that you wouldn't do anything to hurt me. I know you're not the type of person to steal or betray. I can't really blame you, either. She's a catch, isn't she?"

Wonwoo looked at him expectantly, and Mingyu gave a small nod in agreement before Wonwoo continued speaking.

"Back then, I didn't mind you having a secret crush on her because I knew she went home with me at the end of the day. At that time, she chose me, but that was so long ago, Mingyu. She chose you now. And I'm so happy that I get to see her happy."

Wonwoo laughed quietly through his nose. "You know what the worst part was?"

Mingyu looked up slowly.

"I kept seeing things that reminded me of you."

Oh, Mingyu wanted to cry again.

"Convenience store ramen." Wonwoo smiled faintly. "Basketball shoes that you were obsessed with and have been saving up for. That stupid grape drink you liked."

Wonwoo looked down and added, "And every time something happened, I still wanted to call you first."

"I thought if I chose her, I'd lose you," Mingyu said quietly. Then, he laughed weakly through his tears, "Then I realized I was losing you, anyway."

Mingyu stared at him quietly. Then, his face crumpled all over again. "I'm sorry," he choked out.

Wonwoo blinked. "Mingyu—"

"No, hyung, I'm serious." Mingyu wiped at his face harshly. "I'm so sorry." His voice cracked. "I left you alone, too."

Then, Wonwoo had tears streaming down his face. That made Mingyu cry all over again. Both of them felt silly, just crying so hard in the middle of the night. But somehow, it felt good to release all of it.

Wonwoo wiped his tears and stared at him for a long time before sighing. Then he reached over and pulled Mingyu into a tight hug. "C'mere, you."

Mingyu froze instantly. "Hyung—"

"Stop thinking so hard," Wonwoo muttered quietly as he gave a few comforting pats on Mingyu's back. It was enough to make Mingyu cry all over again.

After a while, Wonwoo pulled away and wiped Mingyu's tears.

"You still look ugly when you cry," Wonwoo said with a deadpanned expression.

Mingyu gasped through his tears. "You're literally evil."

"And dramatic," Wonwoo added. "You're evil and dramatic, too."

"I learned from you, hyung." Mingyu chuckled.

"I learned from Joshua hyung." Wonwoo laughed, which made Mingyu laugh, too.

"So," Mingyu started, "are we okay?"

"We're more than okay, Mingyu-yah," Wonwoo confirmed. "We'll be just fine."

EPILOGUE - MONTHS LATER

Sunday mornings had started feeling familiar again. This week, you and Mingyu went home to your childhood home. Wonwoo came along, too. After all, he only lived next door.

The sound of pans clinking downstairs. Your mother is humming worship songs in the kitchen. Joshua is complaining dramatically about waking up early despite being awake for the past hour already.

Mingyu woke up slowly to the warmth of sunlight spilling across your bedroom floor. For a moment, he simply lay there, staring at the ceiling while listening to the muffled sound downstairs.

A few months ago, Mingyu would've panicked waking up in this house. He would've overthought every interaction waiting for him downstairs. Wondered if he was intruding. Wondered if everyone secretly preferred someone else sitting beside you at breakfast.

Now?

"Kim Mingyu! Y/N Hong!" Joshua yelled from downstairs. "If you don't wake up right now, I'm stealing all the fried rice!"

Mingyu snorted to himself. Yeah, things were different now.

Beside him, you groaned softly into your pillow. "Tell Joshua I hate him."

"He says good morning to you, too, baby."

You cracked one eye open and frowned sleepily. "What time is it?"

"Church time."

That got an even louder groan out of you.

Mingyu laughed quietly before sitting up properly. Your bedroom door was slightly open, and he could already smell breakfast drifting upstairs. He rubbed his face tiredly before glancing around your room.

Then his eyes landed on something familiar sitting on your desk. Your Bible. Mingyu stared at it for a moment. Then, without even thinking too hard about it, he stood up and walked over. By the time you dragged yourself out of bed, Mingyu was already sitting on the small couch near your window. Your Bible rested in his hands while he squinted suspiciously at one of the pages.

You blinked sleepily at the sight. "…What are you doing?"

Mingyu didn't even look up. "Apparently, a man got swallowed by a whale."

You burst into laughter instantly. Mingyu finally looked at you with the same expression he had months ago—genuine disbelief mixed with betrayal.

"I'm serious! Why are these stories so intense?" He flipped the page dramatically. "And why does nobody react normally?!"

You fell back onto the bed laughing while Mingyu fought back a smile.

"You know," he murmured quietly, looking back down at the page, "I think I get why you like this stuff now."

Your laughter softened immediately. Mingyu traced absentmindedly over one of your highlighted verses with his thumb.

"It's comforting." He shrugged softly. "Messy people trying their best. Loving each other badly sometimes. Still being forgiven anyway."

You stared at him for a moment. Then your expression melted completely. "Oh," you whispered.

Mingyu looked up immediately. "What?"

"Nothing," you smiled emotionally. "I just love you."

Mingyu's face softened so quickly it almost hurt to look at. Before he could answer, Joshua suddenly appeared at the doorway holding car keys.

"Love each other later," he deadpanned. "We're gonna be late for church."

You threw a pillow at him immediately. Joshua dodged it easily before tossing the car keys toward Mingyu instead. Mingyu caught them automatically.

"You're driving today," Joshua said casually.

Mingyu blinked. "Me?"

"Yes, you. Mom likes your driving better." Joshua shrugged before turning around dramatically. "Also, hurry up, brother-in-law. Mom hates being late for church."

Silence. You froze. Joshua kept walking downstairs like he hadn't just changed the trajectory of someone's entire emotional state. Meanwhile, Mingyu sat there completely still.

Brother-in-law.

Not guest. Not Y/N's boyfriend. Not Wonwoo's friend.

Family.

You looked at him carefully. "Gyu?"

Mingyu laughed quietly to himself. Then he looked around your room. At your Bible in his lap. At the sunlight spilling through the windows. At you standing in front of him, looking half-awake and beautiful.

Home.

For the first time in a long time, Mingyu stopped wondering whether he belonged there. Because somewhere along the way, without even noticing, he already did.

-

Mass had already ended ten minutes ago. Unfortunately, your mother had no intentions of leaving anytime soon. You sat slumped dramatically against the church pew while Joshua stared blankly into space beside you like a soldier returning from war. Near the altar, your mother continued happily chatting with three different church friends while occasionally pointing toward the two of you.

"I think she's introducing our entire bloodline at this point," Joshua muttered.

You sighed. "She's been saying goodbye since mass ended."

"Classic mom behavior." Joshua shook his head and crossed his arms. "Gosh, imagine how long it'll take her to say goodbye to her church friends when we give her grandkids."

"Oh, lord, I don't want to think about that, yet." You huffed. "The kids would fall asleep first before she finishes saying goodbye."

Mingyu sat quietly beside you, amused. A few months ago, he would've felt awkward sitting here. Out of place. Like, he didn't belong in the middle of your family traditions. Now? Now he was just sleepy.

Just then, his phone buzzed in his pocket. Mingyu blinked before checking the screen.

Wonwoo Hyung Don't let Joshua hyung pick the worship songs on the drive home. He thinks Hillsong is club music.

Mingyu snorted loudly. Joshua narrowed his eyes immediately, "What?"

Just as Mingyu opened his mouth to respond, another text came in that garnered his attention.

Wonwoo Hyung Also, your church is terrifying. Why does everyone know your name already?? You must be popular among the ahjummas.

This time, Mingyu laughed, shoulders shaking and all. You leaned against him curiously, "Who's texting you?"

"Mhm," Mingyu hummed, trying not to smile too hard. Then, another message appeared.

Wonwoo Hyung Wanna buy a shit ton of ramen and play games later?

Mingyu stared at the message for a second. Then slowly, he smiled. Beside him, Joshua groaned dramatically.

"Oh my god," he whispered in horror.

You blinked and looked at Joshua, "What?"

Joshua pointed toward your mother across the church. "She's starting another conversation."

You groaned and started ranting with Joshua again while Mingyu typed back.

Mingyu: only if you're buying the ramen :p Wonwoo Hyung: Me again?! You never changed istg. Fine.

Mingyu looked down at the screen and laughed quietly to himself. Yeah, some things never change, and maybe that was a good thing.

a/n: my bread and butter is finally out! please please please send me some feedback! I'd really appreciate a like, reblog, or a comment! :>

feel free to send over an ask if you wanna talk abt this fic or just want to give a review in general! I'd love to talk about it with y'all :)

[boomylovelyboo]

Yeah hello I cried, this was so well written

[shuajunice]

i'm so sorry 😭 i just rlly love angst

[nerdycheol]

hiii!! i love your works and i just want to take this opportunity to say thank you for inspiring me to write svt fics and it makes me so happy that i saw you gave my latest fic a like and sksksks thank you so much! i hope you have a nice week ahead <3

LOVE YOURE GONNA MAKE ME CRYY 🥹🥹🥹 this means a lotttt to me 💗💗

I really really enjoyed your fic it deserves more than a like and a reblog. So well written

Everyone please go check out this fic it's amazing!! And if you like it do give it a reblog and comment on it<3

[shuajunice]

AAHHHHH im gonna cry fjkgsdkfjgksfjd thank you so much 🥺 you liking it means so much to me and im forever grateful slslsls and the follow back too omg 😭

[shuajunice]

His Ghost Still Lingers | J.W.W & K.M.G

Pairing: ex!wonwoo x fem!reader, current bf!mingyu x fem!reader, mingyu x wonwoo [platonic], older bro!joshua x fem!reader Summary: Can love survive when the past is still there, but no longer yours? Mingyu knows you love him. But whenever Jeon Wonwoo is near, he feels something unspoken settle between them; something he was never meant to fully understand, but can’t ignore either. Warning/s: angst, sad mingyu, insecure mingyu, some religious stuff Notes: banner by me, non-idol au Song/s: wildflower by billie eilish, this is me trying by taylor swift, needy by ariana grande, ghostin by ariana grande, pov by ariana grande Word count: 15,873

CHAPTER 1: TRADITIONS DON'T DIE

Every year, your family would organize a two-week vacation with the Jeons. They've been friends long before they had children. So, it was a no-brainer for them to live next to each other. When Joshua was born, Mrs. Jeon was already expecting. A few months later, in July, she had Wonwoo. Then, you were born in 1997, and Wonwoo's brother was born the year after.

You all grew up alongside each other—holidays, birthdays, ordinary days that blurred into something constant. So it didn’t come as a surprise to anyone when you and Wonwoo started dating. Your mom was thrilled, Joshua didn’t worry (it was Wonwoo, after all), and his parents had already been treating you like family long before anything changed.

Before dating, you and Wonwoo were the best of friends. By the time you and Wonwoo made it official, it was easy. It felt like stepping into something that had always been there. You stayed that way for years, until he left for college, and somewhere along the distance, things quietly fell apart.

The tradition didn't.

This year's two-week vacation will be held at a beach resort. It's also a special family vacation because this year, your family had invited Mingyu, your boyfriend. It's the first time you're bringing someone.

Well, not that it's entirely new. Wonwoo has been coming along for years due to your history. So while you went on the annual trip as lovers, he never really counted as a guest; he was just there, part of it.

Mingyu isn't.

Still, he was invited without much hesitation. After all, Wonwoo was the one who vouched for him when your mom and Joshua asked.

Spending two weeks at a beach resort was something you, Joshua, and the Jeon children were looking forward to. Especially now that Mingyu's in the picture. Wonwoo liked Mingyu. After all, they were best buds in high school until college.

The weather was perfect. The air was warm, the kind that clung to your skin. The wind was just right and there weren't many people at the beach.

You and Mingyu were sitting on a beach towel with a big umbrella sticking from the sand. Before Mingyu could fully settle into the moment, you leaned up and pressed a quick, sweet kiss to his lips.

"I'll go join Joshua in the water," you smiled as you glanced toward the shoreline where your brother was waiting, waving his arms already calling you over.

Mingyu blinked once, still stunned by the kiss, then nodded with a small smile. "Alright. I'll get us ice cream then."

You got up from the beach towel and looked at him, "Don't trip and fall. Only fall in line and in love with me."

"Dangerous instructions," he said, eyes flicking to the water. "Just don't drown before I get there."

"I won't!" You grinned, before turning and jogging off toward the water.

Mingyu watched you with a big smile on his face before getting up to buy ice cream for the two of you.

The sun was harsher and hotter near the stalls. Mingyu waited in line, shifting on his feet, watching the sand, listening to the distant crash of waves. He had a semi-permanent squint on his face, mentally cursing himself for not bringing his glasses, and sweat dripping from his forehead. When it was finally his turn, he bought the ice creams, paid for them and began the journey back to your spot.

That was when he looked up and saw you.

You were in the water now, laughing as Wonwoo effortlessly lifted you before tossing you back into the shallow waves. You splashed down with a sound that was too bright to ignore. Nearby, Joshua was laughing like he'd seen this exact scene a hundred times before.

Oh, because he had seen this before. He'd seen it since forever. As kids. As teenagers. When you were together—and after you weren’t. He'd seen your whole story.

Mingyu stopped walking. The sight made him sick. The ice cream in his hands started to drip faster. At first, he didn't notice. He was too busy watching the way you resurfaced; hair wet, cheeks flushed, cursing, and laughing as if nothing in the world could weigh you down. Wonwoo stood nearby, relaxed, like this was normal.

To be fair, this had always been normal. He was the only outsider after all.

Mingyu gulped. The cones softened in his grip; his hands were now sticky with melted ice cream.

Then, you looked up. Your eyes found him instantly. "Hey!" you called with a bright smile, lifting a hand above the water, "Come here!"

For a moment, everything stilled. Joshua turned first, then Wonwoo, both following your gaze. Wonwoo was cool with Mingyu. Wonwoo looked the same as always: calm, unreadable, all resting bitch face and quiet eyes.

And Joshua? Joshua was harder to read. Sometimes, Mingyu felt like he was being quietly evaluated by Joshua, as if checking if he could live up to the standards Wonwoo set. Other times, you'd say Mingyu was overthinking because Joshua was, and he quotes, "a literal cinnamon roll". Joshua definitely didn't give Mingyu "cinnamon roll" vibes. If anything, Joshua's the definition of the "looks like a cinnamon roll but can actually kill you" meme.

Mingyu felt the shift immediately; the awareness of being seen. Something inside him tightened, sharp and quiet.

He took a deep breath and smiled. Quick. Easy. Familiar. Like nothing was wrong. Like he wasn't standing there with melting ice cream in his hands, watching a world he wasn't part of.

"Yeah," he called back, lifting the cones slightly as he jogged over to where you were. "Coming, honey!"

Mingyu watched as you got out of the water and met him halfway. You smiled, kissed his cheek, and grabbed one of the ice cream cones.

"Thank you, handsome." You grinned, immediately eating your ice cream.

"Sorry if it melted." Mingyu said, eating his own ice cream. You shrugged it off and said it was fine. When you were both finished, you dragged Mingyu to join Wonwoo and Joshua.

The four of you began to swim around, laugh, splash each other, and just talk about life. Naturally, you drift into an easy conversation with Wonwoo. To you, it was nothing but a conversation with a friend. To Mingyu, it was different.

"Remember when we went to the cafe near the house?" You asked Wonwoo and he laughed.

"Of course!" Wonwoo caught his breath, "It was hilarious. We went there because it was the grand opening and because you were so excited, you bumped into the window thinking it was the door!"

You splashed Wonwoo and laughed.

Mingyu watched. He felt... off. Back in high school, Mingyu never paid much attention to you beyond being Wonwoo's girlfriend. He never really paid any mind to you whenever you'd watch their basketball practices. He never paid you any mind when Wonwoo would cancel game sessions just for you. It wasn't until after the breakup, when Wonwoo left, and you stayed behind, that Mingyu really got to know you.

You were left behind with Mingyu because you were in the same year. Then you grew closer and by the time you were college freshmen, you've been dating him since graduation.

Oh, you were absolutely his whole world.

However, he can't help but feel guilty every time he looks at Wonwoo. He was your first love, after all. Your first love, who still kind of... hovered. Wonwoo didn't beat him up for dating you. Wonwoo didn't unfriend him for dating you. Wonwoo was just... Wonwoo.

Seeing you two fall into a familiar rhythm just did a number on him, and he didn't know if he should go lie down or go home and cry where nobody could see him. Unbeknownst to him, Joshua paid attention to him. Joshua saw how his shoulders slightly dropped as soon as you and Wonwoo entered your own little world. Joshua noticed how distant Mingyu was when the three of you laughed about some old anecdote that Wonwoo shared.

He saw everything.

Joshua drifted closer to Mingyu and slightly nudged him, "You okay?"

Mingyu quickly glanced at Joshua and immediately laughed it off. Joshua knew it was fake, but for Mingyu's sake, he 'bought' it.

"Yes, hyung." Mingyu smiled, though it didn't reach his eyes. "Everything's going... swimmingly. Why wouldn't it be?"

Joshua hummed at that, unconvinced in a way that wasn’t cruel, just observant. His eyes lingered for half a second longer before he finally looked away. “No reason,” he said simply.

And that somehow made it worse.

A moment later, you turned toward them, brushing wet hair out of your face as you walked closer. "You two are being weirdly quiet," you said suspiciously, narrowing your eyes playfully.

Mingyu panicked, but Joshua saved the situation.

"Mingyu's just grumpy because his ice cream melted." Joshua snorted. Mingyu glanced at him and Joshua raised his brows expectantly.

"It was tragic, actually," Mingyu replied, turning to you, slipping into the familiar version of himself before you could look any closer.

Your expression softened immediately. "I'll buy you another one," you promised, loosely grabbing his wrist. "I mean, I know we had ice cream already, but another one wouldn't hurt, right?"

Mingyu stared at your face as you gave him a smile. And just like that, the tightness in his chest loosened enough for him to breathe again.

He's really in love with you.

"C'mon," you kissed his cheek as you tugged him gently toward the shore. "Walk with me, handsome?"

"Always, beautiful."

You waved at Joshua and Wonwoo as you walked with Mingyu to shore.

Wonwoo watched the two of you walk farther down the shoreline, your hand still loosely wrapped around Mingyu's wrist as waves chased your footsteps. For a while, neither he nor Joshua said anything. The only sound between them was the water shifting against the shore and your laughter carrying faintly through the wind.

Then Wonwoo spoke, "They're good together."

Joshua glanced sideways at him, brows lifting slightly. "Yeah?"

For the first time, Joshua wasn't on the same page as him. It wasn't anything Mingyu did or didn’t do, but Joshua was used to Wonwoo. Used to the certainty that came with him. He'd never had to worry before because it had always been Wonwoo. And maybe that was the problem. In Joshua's mind, Wonwoo had quietly set a standard no one else could reach. So, to hear Wonwoo say that Mingyu's a good match for you? That was skeptical.

"Mingyu makes her happy." Wonwoo shrugged, eyes still fixed ahead.

"That's not what I'm skeptical about." Joshua shook his head.

That finally pulled Wonwoo's attention. Joshua sighed quietly dragging a hand through his wet hair before looking back toward you. "She likes him. A lot, actually." He paused. "I just don't know if Mingyu fully understands what he signed up for."

Wonwoo frowned a bit, "What's that supposed to mean?"

Joshua was quiet for a second, carefully gathering his thoughts. "He's dating someone with a history she can't separate herself from," he said eventually. "Most people say they're okay with that until they actually have to live beside it."

Wonwoo's expression shifted—subtle, almost unreadable. "You think he's bothered."

"I think he's trying very hard not to be."

The waves rolled softly around them. Joshua watched the way Mingyu instinctively slowed his pace to match yours farther down the shore, the way you leaned into him without thinking.

"And honestly?" Joshua muttered. "I don't know if anyone could treat her the way you did."

Wonwoo looked away at that, jaw tightening slightly.

"She was loved properly with you," Joshua continued. "That's hard to follow."

For a moment, neither of them spoke. Farther ahead, Mingyu said something that made you laugh loudly enough for the sound to carry back toward them. Instantly, his entire expression softened as he looked at you.

Wonwoo noticed it. Joshua did too. And maybe that was why Joshua sighed, quieter this time.

"But he really does love her."

Wonwoo nodded once. "I know."

Joshua's gaze lingered on the two of you for another second before he finally looked away.

"I just hope he doesn't spend the entire relationship feeling like he's competing with something he was never supposed to beat."

"Hyung," Wonwoo started, "don't be like that. Just give him some time. We're different people. The way I loved her was different and the way he loves her is different. He'll be setting his own standard, he shouldn't follow whatever standard you think I've set."

"I'll try." Joshua nodded. "For her."

While waiting in line at the ice cream stall, your arms were wrapped around Mingyu's waist. He had one arm wrapped around you, and the other stayed on his side.

"What flavor are you getting?" You asked.

"Hmm," Mingyu thought. "Maybe chocolate and a scoop of vanilla with chocolate drizzle."

"Wow." You laughed.

Mingyu hated himself a little for thinking this way. Nothing about this was wrong. You weren't hiding anything from him. You weren't sneaking around or crossing lines or giving him reasons to doubt you. If anything, you had always been honest about Wonwoo—about what he meant to you, about the years you spent together, about how important he still was in your life.

Mingyu understood that. He truly did.

After all, he was a witness of yours and Wonwoo's love story from before and he was a witness of your healing journey on your fourth year of high school because you and him were left behind.

But understanding something and feeling okay about it were two different things.

Because every time he looked at the two of you together, he became painfully aware of how much history existed between you. Not just romantic history. Something older and deeper built into the way you moved around each other without thinking. You and Wonwoo naturally fit beside each other in a way Mingyu still had to learn.

God, that sounded horrible in his head. It made him feel petty. Ungrateful. Insecure in ways he never thought he'd be. After all, he has you. It's him you're dating now, not Wonwoo.

It's him you were kissing. It's his hand you were holding. It's him you're looking for in crowded spaces. It's him you loved openly.

Somehow, he couldn't get that through his head.

After paying for both of your ice creams, you and Mingyu slowly walked back to your spot while talking about random things and the upcoming academic year. Mingyu dreaded it, if he were being honest. This meant he'd see Wonwoo again, and he'd see you drag Wonwoo around while he trailed behind both of you, feeling like a third wheel in his own relationship.

He lightly shook his head and blinked. 'What the fuck is wrong with me?', Mingyu thought.

Wonwoo wasn't a threat. He's not... right?

Mingyu wasn't sure. He knew he was spiraling. Knew he was making himself miserable over something he couldn't even explain properly.

But calling it "nothing" felt unfair, too. Because to him, it isn't nothing.

You lightly nudged Mingyu when you noticed him grow quieter. He glanced at you, and you stopped walking.

He stopped too, and fully turned to you. You stared at him and said, "You've been quiet."

"Have I?" Mingyu asked, playing dumb. After all, it was easier.

"Mhm", you nodded as you continued eating your ice cream. "You okay?"

Mingyu stared at you, and he could've sworn he heard Joshua. It was as if reality was glitching. First, he saw you; then Joshua; then he saw you again; then Joshua. It was alternating quickly. It also didn't help that you and Joshua looked very similar.

"Baby? You okay?"

Mingyu snapped out of it. Now, he saw you with a worried look etched on your pretty face. He gave you a small smile, "I'm fine. Just... distracted."

"Distracted? Wanna talk about it?" You asked sweetly, intertwining your hands together.

"It's nothing serious, babe. It's just... I just realized how much you and Joshua hyung look alike." Mingyu smiled.

You chuckled lightly, "That's it? Well, he's my older brother. Of course, we'd resemble each other."

You reached up and brushed his hair back, "Thank god it's nothing serious. I was worried about you. Let's walk back?"

Mingyu nodded once, "Yup. Let's go, honey."

Mingyu was emotionally distraught. His heart melted when you said you were worried about him, but part of him felt sick.

You weren't the problem. It was him.

CHAPTER 2: THE DREADED FAMILY DINNER

Before you and Mingyu dated, he was very close to Wonwoo. Of course, he was quite the nerdy kid back then. Wonwoo had been one of the few people genuinely nice to him; nice enough to let him join the basketball team. There, Mingyu excelled. He was still nerdy, but he gained a bit of confidence and an improved sense of style thanks to Wonwoo.

Mingyu barely saw you back then because Wonwoo liked to keep his relationship private. Mingyu knew your face before he knew you. He would smile and wave at you politely when you watched practices. Sometimes, he would hear Wonwoo talk sweetly with you on the phone when they hung out at the mall.

He remembered getting a bit jealous of Wonwoo because he had a special someone he could talk to about anything and everything. No matter how hard Mingyu tried back then, connections never seemed to come easily.

How funny fate turned out.

Now, Mingyu was in Wonwoo's seat, and he didn't know if he liked it. He loved you. He really did. But sometimes, being in Wonwoo's place felt a little like standing where everyone still remembered the person before you, all because Jeon Wonwoo sat before him.

Mingyu stared at Wonwoo as he placed some japchae on your mom's plate and the right amount of kimchi on Joshua's plate. He could do that, too, but apparently, it was always Wonwoo's job to do so. Wonwoo wasn't required to do it, no. It just so happened that Wonwoo has been doing it since forever.

Dinner settled into the same rhythm it always did.

Plates shifted around the table. Someone asked for water. Someone complained about the heat outside. Your mom kept insisting everyone eat more despite the fact that the table was already crowded with food.

It was normal, comfortable, familiar. It's the kind of familiar Mingyu had wished for.

Then, Joshua laughed suddenly.

"Oh my god," he said, putting his chopsticks down. "Do you remember that camping trip?"

Immediately, you looked up. "No."

Wonwoo looked up, too. "Yes."

You pointed at Wonwoo dramatically, "Don't encourage him."

Alas, it was too late. Wonwoo was already smiling, Joshua continued to laugh, your parents were amused, you groaned, and Mingyu had no clue what was going on.

Joshua began recounting the time you, Joshua, Wonwoo, and his younger brother went camping. It was a spontaneous trip. Joshua had just received his driver's license and decided it'd be fun to go camping for the weekend.

"That was the weekend I told you I'd be gone, Mingyu-ah." Wonwoo smiled at Mingyu. "That's why I couldn't help you with your project."

Mingyu nodded and said something along the lines of, "Oh, right. I remember."

"Y/Nie cried over a frog!" Joshua cackled and clapped his hands. Everyone laughed, too.

"Noona screamed so loud that Shua hyung almost dropped the grill." Wonwoo's younger brother snickered.

"It jumped on me!" You exclaimed and pouted, resting your head on Mingyu's shoulder in embarrassment. He immediately wrapped his arm around you to make you more comfortable. Wonwoo saw this and smiled before paying attention to the story again.

"It was tiny, Y/N. Give us a break." Joshua rolled his eyes playfully.

"It touched me!"

"Its foot touched you." Wonwoo corrected as he chewed on some bulgogi.

"WONWOO!" You said in frustration, making everyone laugh again. Mingyu gave a small smile, but the fact that Wonwoo remembered little things about you just gnawed at him.

The universe was against him.

One story somehow turned into another. Then another after that. Suddenly, everyone was talking over each other, throwing memories across the table.

Mingyu wanted to yell. "I'M RIGHT HERE!!", Mingyu internally yelled.

"Wonwoo was so crazy because he actually JUMPED into the lake because Y/N lost her Pandora bracelet for some reason." Joshua chuckled.

Wonwoo wasn't stupid. He knew Joshua didn't mean any harm; he always liked telling stories from the past. However, Wonwoo knew things were different now because you now had Mingyu. He could sense that Mingyu was feeling out of place, and he could sense that Mingyu felt something.

They were best friends, after all. At least Wonwoo still thought of him as a best friend.

"Hyung, stop," Wonwoo sighed. "We get it now."

"He literally DOVE IN!" Joshua ignored him.

"She cried for an hour," Wonwoo said. "It broke me because I didn't like seeing her cry, so I swam for it."

Mingyu knew he looked ridiculous with his tight-lipped smile, and he knew he was about to sound ridiculous if he asked questions, but he felt like an ass for not contributing to the conversation, and he would also like to politely let everyone know that he was still present.

"Did you find it?" Mingyu asked in a hushed voice, but everyone was too busy laughing. He cleared his throat and asked a little louder, "Did you find it?"

Everyone stopped laughing. Joshua glanced at Mingyu, and his eyes widened a little. He completely forgot about Mingyu.

Wonwoo smiled politely and nodded, "I did. Good thing it was perched on top of a rock, so I had no problem grabbing it. It just took me a while to find it."

"That's good." Mingyu hoped and prayed that his tone was light. He didn't want your families to think that he was being a dick. Mingyu reached for the spicy chicken, and Wonwoo quickly stopped him.

"Don't get that one," Wonwoo said as he placed a different kind of chicken on Mingyu's plate.

"Hm?" Mingyu blinked. Was he not allowed to eat that specific kind of chicken?

"It's too spicy. You can't have food that's too spicy." Wonwoo pointed out, "You complained about your stomach acid for two days, remember? Coach had to make you sit on the bench for the game."

Mingyu couldn't function after that.

"Aigoo, Wonwoo-ya is so thoughtful and sweet." Your mother cooed.

Just like that, everyone started talking again. Mingyu just stopped working. He didn't know why Wonwoo would remember such a detail.

"Baby?" You nudged him gently. Mingyu turned to look at you, but you were already staring.

You were worried about him. Again.

'Fuck, I hate myself.' Mingyu thought.

"Where'd you go, hm?" You asked in a hushed voice. "You keep zoning out. What's wrong?"

"I'm just very," Mingyu inhaled sharply, "...very embarrassed that Wonwoo hyung would remember a detail like that."

You let out a sigh of relief, "Well, that's Wonwoo for you. He's very caring and very thoughtful."

"Mingyu-ya, please eat some more. I don't want your eomma to think we're not feeding you." Your mother said sweetly to Mingyu.

"Ah—yes. Thank you, eomoni." He picked up his chopsticks almost immediately, eyes dropping to his plate. Across from him, conversation had already started flowing again. Joshua was laughing over something Wonwoo's younger brother said. Your mom was asking Wonwoo something about college. Wonwoo was piling more food into people's bowls despite protests.

Everything was normal. So normal that Mingyu wondered if he was the only person sitting at the table having a terrible time. Beside him, you leaned against his shoulder lightly.

"Eat properly," you whispered.

There it was again, that softness, that warmth, that care. Mingyu glanced sideways, and his eyes softened. You looked completely relaxed beside him.

No hesitation. No distance. No uncertainty. Just you. His girlfriend, looking at him like you always did. Suddenly, guilt crawled up his throat because while you sat beside him as if this were the easiest thing in the world, Mingyu wondered if loving you was enough when there were parts of you he could never touch—years and memories and history that would always belong to someone else.

And for the first time that night, a thought crossed his mind that made his chest tighten.

What if you were never really his to keep?

CHAPTER 3: JOSHUA HONG IS ACCIDENTALLY EVIL

Dinner slowly dissolved, as family dinners always did. No one ever announced the end of it. It just happened naturally. Chairs shifted back. Empty glasses piled together as conversations split into smaller ones.

The adults migrated to the living room for what Mingyu had come to recognize as parent talk: long conversations that somehow lasted over an hour. They even have a glass of wine each.

Wonwoo's younger brother disappeared down the hallway almost immediately, muttering something about showering first before tonight's swim.

Mingyu knew you mentioned it before coming to the beach resort. He didn't expect all of you to like swimming so much. Obviously, he wouldn't get it. He was never there. Of course, there was a late-night swim. That was tradition too.

You had already disappeared upstairs a few minutes ago to change, yelling something over your shoulder about meeting everyone at the pool in twenty minutes. And just like that, everyone naturally fell into place.

Joshua stood up first, then Wonwoo. No words exchanged. No discussion. Just movement. Joshua gathered plates, and Wonwoo collected glasses. Easy. Practiced. Well, they've done this a hundred times before.

Mingyu stared for a second too long before immediately standing, too. Helping felt normal. Helping felt useful. Helping felt like maybe, just maybe, he could stop feeling like a guest.

"Hyung, let me help," Mingyu said with a bit of enthusiasm. He smiled anyway. Lately, pretending had become easier than explaining.

Mingyu grabbed a few of the bigger plates and stacked them together as he trailed behind Joshua and Wonwoo, who were laughing about something. Mingyu jogged a little to catch up, but the plates shook, catching the attention of Joshua. He stopped walking, turned around, looked at the plates, and looked at Mingyu.

"Careful. I bought those plates from Beijing." Joshua stated. "Don't be clumsy."

Wonwoo was looking at him too, but turned around when Joshua turned around. They continued to walk to the kitchen, and Mingyu just stood there. He felt stupid.

Still, he pushed through because he loves you and he wants to stay in your life.

Joshua was washing the plates, and Wonwoo was drying them and putting them on one side. Mingyu carefully placed the expensive plates from Beijing in the sink as Joshua continued to wash them with ease.

Not knowing what else to do, Mingyu moved to Wonwoo's side and grabbed a few plates to put back. Joshua noticed this through his peripheral vision and said, "Ah, leave that. Wonwoo knows where everything goes."

Mingyu froze. His hand tightened slightly around the plate, "Oh."

That was all he said. Just one word. He knew Joshua didn't mean anything by it. A small, rational part of him knew that Joshua was being normal. Joshua didn't mean any harm because it was a fact: Wonwoo knew where things went. Wonwoo had been coming over since he was a kid. Longer than that, most likely. Wonwoo knew everything. It all made sense.

However, a huge part of Mingyu was hurt. Suddenly, Mingyu felt like he was seventeen again: very awkward, poor skin, dehydrated, and socially inept.

Back then, he used to stand near the basketball court with his backpack hanging awkwardly off one shoulder while everyone else laughed like they'd known each other forever. Then Wonwoo had walked over, handed him a spare jersey, and asked: "You wanna join us?"

And just like that, Mingyu had stopped feeling like an outsider. Until now.

Before Mingyu could think too hard about it, Wonwoo moved beside him and gently took the plates from his hands. Then held out a dish towel. "Dry the plates instead," Wonwoo muttered. His voice was quiet, casual. Like it wasn't a big deal, like Mingyu belonged beside him naturally. And somehow, that hurt too.

The kitchen settled into a rhythm after that. Water running, plates clinking. Joshua washing, Mingyu drying, and Wonwoo putting things back where they belonged. No one said much at first. Then, Joshua suddenly laughed. Not loudly, just to himself.

Wonwoo looked over immediately, "What?"

"Nothing." Joshua shook his head, stifling a laugh. Then, a pause. "Okay, remember that one summer..."

"Hyung," Wonwoo groaned.

Joshua grinned.

While he didn't know much about Joshua, Mingyu knew the grin he made. He knew it well. It was the type of grin nerds like him knew all too well, for it was the kind of grin bullies made before they teased someone.

From your stories, Mingyu knew Joshua wasn't a bully. He'd never hurt a fly, but Joshua Hong looked like he was about to bully him.

Joshua looked at Wonwoo and said, "Remember when Y/N insisted on helping us for dinner?"

Wonwoo looked tired. 'Joshua hyung seems to remember a lot of things tonight.' Mingyu thought.

"No," Wonwoo answered, hoping Joshua would drop it.

He didn't.

"You absolutely do." Joshua stared.

"No."

Joshua pursed his lips and dramatically turned to Mingyu, "She dropped an entire bowl of Caesar salad."

Wonwoo sighed like a man accepting defeat.

"The salad went everywhere!" Joshua exclaimed, wide-eyed, before laughing uncontrollably.

Wonwoo looked exhausted. Joshua wheezed beside him. Mingyu smiled politely, still drying plates like he wasn't mentally taking psychic damage.

"Y/N cried because she thought she ruined dinner."

Mingyu glanced up, "She cried?"

"She's always been a crier," Joshua said.

"To be fair, she thought your mom was going to get mad." Wonwoo shrugged. Mingyu noted the subtle defense.

Joshua wiped his tears from laughing, "And then Wonwoo spent twenty minutes convincing her she wasn't in trouble."

Mingyu slowly looks back down at the plate in his hand. Of course. Of course, Wonwoo comforted you.

The conversation shifted again. Joshua was still laughing to himself as he dried his hands. Mingyu quietly focused on wiping down the remaining plates.

"Y/N-ah?" Your mother's voice carried through the house from the living room. "Actually—Wonwoo-ya?"

Without stopping or looking up from his tasks, Wonwoo answered, "Ne?"

"Where's the other bottle of wine?"

Mingyu glanced over automatically. Wonwoo didn't. Actually, he didn't pause or think. Wonwoo simply dried his hands, walked out of the kitchen, and disappeared around the corner. Then he came back holding another bottle.

"It was in the cabinet beside the refrigerator," Wonwoo answered as he placed it gently on the coffee table before returning to his spot.

Joshua didn't react, not even a little bit. In fact, nobody in that moment found it strange that Wonwoo knew where wine was stored in a house that wasn't his.

"Joshua-yah!" Your mother called out.

Joshua looked up, "Hm?"

"Can you get my glasses upstairs, please?"

Before Joshua could answer, Wonwoo casually interrupted, "They're on the side table drawer beside the couch."

Joshua immediately nodded and walked out. No hesitation at all. No "how do you know that?". Nothing. Nada.

Apparently, everyone had accepted that Jeon Wonwoo simply knew things. Mingyu blinked. When Joshua returned, he casually wiped the dining table clean.

A minute later.

"Wonwoo-yah!" His father called out. "Did we bring the card deck?"

Wonwoo pointed toward a drawer without even turning around, "It's in the second drawer beside the TV."

"Found it! Thank you!"

Wonwoo hummed in reply. Mingyu was bewildered. He stared, actually stared. At this point, he was starting to wonder if Wonwoo had blueprints of the house memorized somewhere.

Joshua looked over and snorted, "Ah."

Mingyu slowly turned, and Joshua grinned again. The same 'bully grin' from earlier.

"Scary, right?"

Mingyu blinked. "...Hyung?"

Joshua nodded towards Wonwoo as he wrung the little towel he used to wipe the table with on the sink. "That."

Mingyu looked over, and Wonwoo was putting away cups now. He moved around the kitchen like muscle memory had taken over.

"He's been like that forever," Joshua snorted. Mingyu stayed quiet, then Joshua laughed quietly, "Honestly, I think Wonwoo knows this house better than I do."

Mingyu laughed. Small, automatic. It was probably a joke. Joshua thought for a second and nodded to himself, "Actually... No, I think he genuinely might."

Radio silence.

Wonwoo didn't deny anything. He didn't react either. He just continued putting away cups and plates. Both Joshua and Mingyu stared at him.

"I mean, he practically grew up here." Joshua shrugged.

Oh. Mingyu felt like he was about to collapse. He glanced at Joshua, who was busy wiping the table again, and looked down. He didn't know if he could stay in the kitchen any longer. He didn't want to be trapped with your brother and your hot-and-dependent-all-around-ex-boyfriend.

"I'll, uh, I'll go check on Y/N." Mingyu said before leaving the kitchen.

"Don't forget about our swim night!" Wonwoo called out.

"Of course, he'd remind me. Ugh, what's wrong with me?" Mingyu asked himself as he walked up the stairs to your shared room for this vacation.

In truth, he wasn't up for swimming anymore. However, he didn't want to bring down the mood, and he certainly wanted to make a good impression on everyone. With a heavy sigh, he smiled to himself before knocking and entering your room.

CHAPTER 4: FORGIVE ME, FOR I HAVE SINNED

Mingyu rarely prayed. However, since meeting you, he'd come to realize that your family's the religious type. Not the judgmental kind. Not the kind that quoted Bible verses every five minutes or acted like they were better than everyone else. You'd all go to church every Sunday, and you and Joshua would join Catholic Outreach Programs every two months. He also took note that your family loved to donate often—not because anyone asked, but because helping people seemed as natural to you as breathing. You had mentioned before that you and Joshua were raised to do Christ-like things.

In truth, Mingyu noticed it all. He noticed a lot of things about you. So, he started praying too. At first, he wasn't serious because he didn't want to fake things like that. Besides, he wasn't sure if he believed it all. Sometimes he'd stay over at your dorm and find your Bible sitting on your desk with little sticky notes peeking out from the pages. You'd underline passages and tell him your favorite verses. Sometimes you'd drag him to church and hold his hand during prayer.

So he got curious... then intrigued.

-

It was a perfect, sunny afternoon when Mingyu arrived at your dorm. He had been planning a cute date after finals, and you were finally free that day. He knocked on your door, and you quickly opened it before running back. Mingyu was confused.

He entered your dorm and saw all your clothes scattered everywhere. His jaw was wide open as you looked through your dresses, muttering something about wearing your new white dress on Sunday when you go to church with your mom and Joshua.

"Um... did you need more time, baby?" Mingyu asked, making himself comfortable on your bed.

You looked at him with a sweet smile and said, "This will be quick, but can you help me pick a dress?"

"You can wear a trash bag, and I'd love it, and I'd think you'd be so chic. Wear whatever you want, baby." Mingyu smiled.

"I know, but I want it to be perfect. You've been planning this for a while now. Just help me: the pink dress or the yellow dress?" You held up the dresses in question for Mingyu to see. He began to genuinely, thoroughly think about it.

"Hm, I like both of them, but the pink one looks a bit uncomfortable. It's more of a party dress than a date dress. Wear the yellow one." Mingyu said softly.

You sighed in relief, tossing the pink one somewhere, "You're a lifesaver. I'll go get ready in the bathroom!"

"Take your time." Mingyu smiled as he watched you enter the bathroom. He quickly looked around your dorm and began to clean up. Granted, he still had to figure things out, but he was able to clean up quickly. Checking the time on his watch, he figured he should lie down and scroll through his phone.

Reaching for his phone, Mingyu unlocked it and began to scroll through Instagram.

Like.

Like.

Comment.

Like.

Then his phone died. Mingyu groaned in annoyance. He knew you weren't even halfway done. Rubbing his face with his hands, he charged his phone on your bedside table.

Bored out of his mind, Mingyu sprawled out across your bed, just waiting. He was bored. Then, he noticed your Bible sitting on your desk. Mingyu had stared at it for a second, then he stared longer.

"For someone who claimed she wasn't forcing religion onto people, Y/N sure has a lot of tabs sticking out of that thing," Mingyu quietly said to himself, propping up on his elbows to see it better.

Tiny sticky notes peeked out from pages. Some corners were folded. There were little highlights and underlines everywhere. You'd clearly read it a lot.

Naturally, Mingyu did what any curious boyfriend would do. He sat up, crawled onto your bed, reached for the Bible, and opened it on a random page, a random verse.

Mingyu leaned on your headboard and muttered, "Hm.. let's see here. It says 'Genesis' on top. Is the title of the chapter, 'Genesis'? Why are there tiny numbers on each sentence? This is confusing."

Mingyu's eyes scanned each word, each sentence, until he was fully into it. His eyes moved quickly, and he flipped the page with intrigue. Five minutes later, the bathroom door opened.

"Baby, I'm—" You stopped.

First of all, your clothes were now in your closet. Secondly, the floor was clean. Lastly, Mingyu was no longer lying down. He was sitting upright against your headboard. Rigid. Wide-eyed. Holding your Bible with both hands, staring at you. No greeting. No 'wow, you look pretty as always'. Nothing. Then he spoke.

"Oh, my god," Mingyu said, still in shock.

You blinked, "...Hello?"

Mingyu looked genuinely distressed. Like, actually distressed. "What do you MEAN God flooded everything?!"

"Mingyu, honey... what?"

He pointed aggressively at the page, "It says so right here!" Mingyu scanned the page until he found what he was looking for, "Here, listen: 'I am going to bring floodwaters on the earth to destroy all life under the heavens, every creature that has the breath of life in it. Everything on earth will perish.' What the hell? Also, only ONE guy built the ark?! That's not realistic!"

You could only stare at him. Mingyu stared back, "And why are there SO MANY animals?! Did he live on a farm? It didn't say anything, but holy shit— I mean, sorry. Not supposed to say that while holding this Bible, but oh my god??"

Then, you burst into laughter. You had actual tears in your eyes, and Mingyu looked offended immediately.

"Why are you laughing?!" Mingyu screeched.

"Baby... are you reading Noah's Ark?" You laughed as you walked over to your mirror and fixed your earrings.

Mingyu sat there, clutching your Bible like he'd uncovered classified government information, "You're telling me this actually happened?!"

You looked at him through the mirror and slowly turned around, then smiled dangerously. Mingyu narrowed his eyes immediately. He knew that smile. You walked over and gently held his face, "Baby."

Mingyu stared at you.

"A whale swallowed Jonah."

Mingyu was silent. He blinked a few times as his face slowly contorted into confusion, "A WHAT swallowed WHO?"

You folded instantly, bent over laughing. Mingyu looked horrified as he looked at your current form.

"Why are you saying it so casually?!"

You couldn't even answer. You were wheezing. Mingyu looked at the Bible, then back at you, and then back at the Bible.

"You're telling me, there's MORE?" Mingyu was in disbelief. Now, he genuinely wondered what your family does at church every Sunday. Did you read more unhinged stories? Do you all laugh at the stories of these unfortunate characters in the Bible? He didn't know. He's not sure if he wanted to.

You kissed his cheek, "Baby, there are plagues too. Oh! I almost forgot. There's also leprosy."

"Leprosy? What's that?"

You ignored his question. You wanted him to figure it out on his own. It was more fun that way. "Also, Jesus has a close friend named Lazarus."

"Okay? Um, good for Jesus for having a close friend."

"Lazarus died."

"Oh, I'm sorry. That must have—"

"Jesus brought him back to life."

"Jesus did WHAT?"

"Jesus bestied so hard, he brought Lazarus back to life." You chuckled, amused by his reactions. Gosh, you loved your boyfriend so much.

Mingyu slowly closed the Bible, placed it back on your desk, stood up, and grabbed his car keys. "You know what? Let's just go, babe. I need some time away from... that. No offense." Mingyu said.

"None taken." You laughed.

The two of you left your dorm, locking the door behind you. You walked side by side down the hallway, then Mingyu stopped walking. You blinked and turned around. He was staring at you.

"...What kind of church do you people GO TO?"

You gasped dramatically, "Kim Mingyu!"

"No, no, seriously!" He pointed between you and your dorm door. "Every five minutes you're introducing a new problem!"

"Mingyu!"

"First floods, then whales, then DISEASES—"

"MINGYU!"

"And now people are coming back to LIFE?!"

You were practically wheezing now, clinging to his arm while he looked genuinely betrayed. Then he looked at you, really looked at you. He looked at the way your eyes had disappeared from laughing too hard, the way you leaned on him for support, and the tears gathering at the corners of your eyes.

And despite the Biblical crisis, his confusion, the absolute betrayal, Mingyu started laughing too. You looked happy, and Mingyu had always been a little helpless when it came to you.

If it was true that God created everything—if He made people meet and paths cross and things happen for reasons beyond understanding, then Mingyu was really, really thankful He made you.

And somehow, even more thankful that He gave you to him.

-

Back then, loving you felt easy. Of course, relationships weren't easy, at least not completely. You were insanely stubborn. Mingyu was overly dramatic. You fought over stupid things and made up just as quickly.

But loving you? That part had always been easy. Every time Mingyu looked at you, you never questioned it. He never had to wonder where he stood. He never had to wonder if he belonged beside you.

Tonight felt different.

He was supposed to be getting ready for tonight's swimming, but he was too busy staring at the night sky outside the resort, hands shoved deep into the pockets of his hoodie. The pool lights reflected softly against the water nearby. Somewhere outside, he could hear laughter. Familiar voices. Yours. Joshua's. Wonwoo's.

Tradition again. Always tradition.

Mingyu swallowed. Lately, he had started noticing something ugly about himself. Every memory, every story, every room, every conversation, somehow led back to Wonwoo.

Mingyu hated that he noticed. He hated it even more because part of him wondered if God was punishing him for something.

For falling in love with you. For dating you. For loving someone that had belonged to someone else first.

"God, did You really give her to me at all?" Mingyu chuckled to himself bitterly. "Or am I just keeping the seat warm until Wonwoo hyung comes back again?"

CHAPTER 5: JOSHUA HONG TALKS A LOT, NO?

The pool is quieter now. Everyone else is still around, but the energy softened. The late-night tradition was settling into something slower. Mingyu had left you by the pool because he was tired and wanted to shower. You didn't mind.

Now, you were just in the pool. Not really swimming, but you just stood there, rested your arms on the ledge, and looked at the view. Being the nosy older brother that he is, Joshua noticed you first. He swam to you and stayed beside you. Both of you were silent for a while.

"You're thinking too loud," he said casually.

You glanced at him and blinked, "That's not a thing."

"It is when you're my sister." He looked at you. "You can lie to mom, but you can't lie to me."

You looked away, and he sighed, putting a hand on your shoulder, "Did he say something to you? I'm not scared to kick him out of this trip. Just tell me. Did he make you uncomfortable? Did he force you to do something you didn't want to do? He's way taller than me, but I can strangle him."

"It's not that," you sighed.

"Throw me a bone here, Y/N! I'm not a mind reader. I'm just a very concerned older brother because you've never been like this before. Not even when you were with Wonwoo. So, tell me. What's wrong?" Joshua pushed your hair back gently.

"He's been weird all day. He keeps zoning out. Like, he's here, but he's not here. He's physically here, but he's mentally checked out. I keep asking him what's wrong, but I know he's lying. I just didn't want to confront him on the spot because he could be overwhelmed." You confessed.

"Overwhelmed?" Joshua's brows knitted in confusion.

"Well, if I were him, I'd be overwhelmed too. Imagine being invited on a two-week vacation at a beach resort with people you barely know." You pointed out.

"He knows you and Wonwoo."

"Yes, but that's not the point." You sighed, looking at your hands and glanced up at him, "He just... he kept looking like he didn't belong here. He kept looking at us like he was looking at a men's Dior winter coat through the glass."

"An outsider always looking in," Joshua concluded with a nod. "Yeah, I noticed."

"You did?" You frowned. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"Sweetheart, I told you before, and I'll say it again: if you're having a conflict within the relationship, never bring in other people who could poison your mind. I don't know much about Mingyu, so it'd be unfair of me to just jump right into conclusions without getting to know him first. It'd also be unfair to you because I meddled with something that doesn't concern me. YOU are my concern, not your relationship." Joshua said softly.

"Your relationship concerns should only be between you and Mingyu. Only come to us if your relationship's problem involves us. Right now, it's just you and him." He added.

"What do you think of him?" You asked.

He looked at you with pursed lips, "In my honest opinion?"

"Yes."

"I think Mingyu is trying too hard to fit in. I appreciate his efforts, but it's just painful to watch. He looks like a kicked puppy. He's been trying hard all day. Then he spirals by himself. Always comparing, always thinking too much. As your brother, it makes me kind of annoyed because you're right there, and he's not even paying much attention to you because of his insecurities." Joshua ranted as you nodded slowly.

Joshua looked at you and sighed, shoulders dropping, "I think he's losing to someone who isn't even competing, sweetheart."

He pulled you in for a tight hug, which you reciprocated. "All of you should talk." He mumbled before pulling away. He held you in arm's reach, looking at your disheartened expression.

"But you should talk to him first.... before he talks to Wonwoo."

Just as Joshua was about to swim away and leave the pool, he paused and turned around to face you, "He likes you a lot, you know. Like... a lot, a lot."

"You think so?"

"Y/N, if he's willing to come out here with your family and your ex's family for two weeks, all because of a tradition that started way back when, he's totally committed to you all the way." Joshua smiled.

"Good night, Y/N. Love you."

"Love you too, Shua. Good night."

When he left the pool area, you sighed to yourself and got out of the pool too. You grabbed your towel and dried yourself before going up to your room and shower. When you arrived, Mingyu was already asleep. You gave him a kiss on his forehead and went straight to your bathroom to shower.

When you closed the door, Mingyu's eyes opened a bit before smiling a small smile and drifting back to sleep.

Morning came too easily. The resort was already awake by the time Mingyu was. Sunlight spilled across the curtains in uneven stripes, warm but forgiving. Somewhere outside, waves broke against the shore like nothing had ever been wrong.

Mingyu sat still for a while before moving. He didn't feel well-rested. He didn't feel worse either. He felt... empty.

Like something had changed, and he hadn't caught up to it yet. When he finally stepped out, Joshua was already there. Waiting—not literally. Joshua never “waited” for people. He just happened to be present at the exact moment they needed him. He glanced at Mingyu once, briefly.

Mingyu bowed, "Good morning."

Joshua waved him off and politely greeted him as well. He gestured for Mingyu to sit on the chair next to him, and Mingyu nervously did so.

"This is a really beautiful place. Thanks for inviting me." Mingyu said softly.

"No problem," Joshua said.

"This house is beautiful, too. I'm sure it must've cost a fortune to rent it out for two weeks." Mingyu mentioned, leaning back on the chair.

Now, Joshua swore he's not one of those people, but he slightly took offense. "We own this house, Mingyu." Joshua corrected.

Mingyu was embarrassed. "I'm so-"

"It's okay," Joshua gave him a polite smile, "You didn't know."

Then there was silence. It wasn't awkward, and it wasn't bad. It was just... silent.

"So, um, how are you?" Mingyu asked awkwardly. He wanted to have a decent relationship with Joshua. He wasn't asking for a close relationship like Joshua's relationship with Wonwoo. Mingyu just wanted to have a normal relationship with Joshua, normal enough to know that you can leave him alone with Joshua.

Joshua looked at him and nodded, "I'm good. How are you?"

"I'm good, too," Mingyu replied.

Using this as an opening, Joshua fully turned his body to face Mingyu. "No, you're not." Joshua countered.

"What—"

"Let's talk." Joshua said, "Properly, this time."

"Um, alright." Mingyu was confused, but he kind of felt that Joshua knew something. Especially when Joshua asked if he was okay at the beach yesterday. Mingyu could only gulp nervously.

Joshua, being the professional and polite guy that he was, thought of proper words to direct his points. Eventually, he settled for something simple. "You've been tense since yesterday. Have we done something to make you feel this way?" Joshua asked, keeping his tone light.

Mingyu's eyes widened. He absolutely DID NOT want your family to think they made him uncomfortable. Mingyu shook his head, "No, of course not."

"It's Wonwoo, isn't it?" Joshua stated.

"N-No..."

"Don't lie to me, Mingyu. You kept looking at Wonwoo before you looked at my sister." Joshua huffed, "One might think it's Wonwoo you're dating."

"It's not what it-"

"Oh, I know it's not what it looks like." Joshua cut him off. "I just want you to be honest about your feelings. I know you're bothered."

"I'm just..." Mingyu stuttered, "It's not a big deal, hyung. I was just... overwhelmed. Yeah, I was overwhelmed."

"Bullshit." Joshua was deadpanned. He stared at Mingyu and sighed as he leaned back against his chair, rubbing his face tiredly.

"Mingyu," he said more softly, "I've known Wonwoo almost my entire life. I know the way people act around him."

Mingyu nodded as Joshua spoke.

"I get it. Wonwoo's a catch. He's a gentleman, he's soft spoken, very kind, very level-headed, and very loyal." Joshua added.

Mingyu stayed silent, poking his tongue through his cheek.

"And I know what insecurity looks like, too," Joshua stated, eyes focused on Mingyu. "Look at me when I'm speaking to you, please."

Mingyu looked at Joshua slowly, feeling slightly scared. Joshua sensed his fear and sighed.

"You think everyone's comparing you to him," Joshua continued. "You think every story about him is secretly a reminder that you're not him."

Mingyu's jaw tightened.

"No one is doing that to you except yourself, Mingyu-yah," Joshua said, matter-of-factly. Mingyu frowned. He didn't know whether he should be offended.

Joshua gave him a small smile, "Mingyu, you're a catch, too. Heck, so am I, but that's not the point."

"Then what is the point?" Mingyu sulked, making Joshua chuckle lightly.

"The point is," Joshua shifted in his seat to make himself more comfortable, "you were too busy looking and analyzing Wonwoo, that you failed to notice my sister. You were too busy thinking about Wonwoo being the 'perfect' boyfriend to my sister that you didn't even allow us to get to know you."

Mingyu's gaze softened, "Y-You wanted to get to know me?"

"Of course!" Joshua chuckled, "You're my sister's boyfriend. Of course, we want to get to know you. Mom and I were skeptical, but Wonwoo vouched for you, you know? He was very persuasive; he said you were good at everything."

"I bet you were disappointed, huh?"

"A bit," Joshua admitted. "Wonwoo told me to give you a chance. As for mom, she's just really nice, and she saw how happy Y/N is, so that's enough for her."

Mingyu laughed once, but there was nothing happy about it.

"I know I'm being insane." He rubbed his face harshly. "I know she's right there, and I know she loves me, but sometimes…" He swallowed hard.

Joshua watched him carefully, "Sometimes what?"

"Never mind," Mingyu shook his head and looked away.

"Spit it out, Gyu. The Bible said that the truth will set you free," Joshua said, "and don't look away when we're speaking. Please look at me, it's very rude not to."

Mingyu looked at him, "Sometimes, I see him in the back of my mind." Mingyu confessed. "Then I ask myself if she sees him too whenever she looks at me."

Joshua stayed silent as he nodded, beginning to understand where Mingyu was coming from.

"And sometimes I wonder if she wishes she were holding him instead of me," Mingyu admitted.

"So now the truth comes out." Joshua chuckled. "Thank you for telling the truth."

Mingyu felt some weight being lifted off his shoulders. Joshua nodded slowly.

"Wonwoo was right," Joshua murmured. Mingyu stiffened, staring at Joshua.

"…What do you mean?" Mingyu asked quietly.

Joshua glanced at him, "When Wonwoo found out you and Y/N were dating, he told me something."

Mingyu's heart dropped. Joshua leaned back slightly against his chair.

"He said you were going to keep comparing yourself to him." Joshua chuckled lightly. "Said you'd probably drive yourself insane eventually."

"Oh... he did?"

"Mhm," Joshua nodded. "Then he called me out for saying things about you because frankly, I had said some... unpleasant things about you at the beach yesterday. I said that you weren't Wonwoo and that you could never reach the standard he set."

Mingyu could feel himself panicking, but Joshua reached out and touched his arm. Joshua smiled, "But Wonwoo was right. You're not Wonwoo, you're Mingyu. You love her differently, but it works. You'll set your own standard, and because Y/N is so happy, I'd like to think that you're doing a pretty good job."

Mingyu unintentionally gave Joshua puppy eyes.

"I think what you're feeling is normal," Joshua admitted. "Honestly, if I were in your position, I'd probably feel weird too."

Mingyu sighed in relief. He genuinely thought he was going insane.

"But the difference is," Joshua continued as he slowly moved his hand away from Mingyu's arm, "I'd talk to him instead of suffering in silence."

There was a pause.

"He was your best friend first, no?"

Mingyu swallowed hard.

"He's probably wondering why you're pulling away from him, too."

Mingyu sighed. Joshua was right. He was too blinded by everything he was feeling that he failed to live in the moment. He was too worried about being the "next Wonwoo," but he had absolutely nothing to be worried about because you loved him anyway.

"You should talk to my sister, too. She opened up to me last night, you know." Joshua casually mentioned. "But I won't meddle about that. Besides, your relationship isn't my concern, Y/N is. Treat her right and we'll be just fine, Mingyu."

"Does she hate me?" Mingyu asked in a small voice.

"She could never hate you, Gyu. Y/N's in love. It's so obvious. She's practically glowing and healthy. I honestly love that for her." Joshua confessed.

"You think so?"

"I know so. Now, go." Joshua shooed him away, "Take her out. Let her tour you around. She's been wanting to do that since we invited you. Talk to her then, talk to Wonwoo."

"I will." Mingyu stood up, "Thanks, hyung."

"Don't mention it." Joshua shrugged. "Oh, and Gyu?"

"Hm?"

"Welcome to the family."

CHAPTER 6: "I WAS LOOKING AT HIM, THINKING I COULD NEVER BE LIKE THAT" ... "BUT IT'S YOU WHO I WANT, AND I WISH YOU COULD SEE THAT"

Joshua sat in comfortable silence, gazing at the early morning view in front of them. The sound of the ocean, soft chatters of people in the area, and a few dogs barking in the distance were the only sounds present. Sending Mingyu off to look for you was the best decision he's ever made today.

Knowing you, you'd be walking by the beach. You always loved walking by the beach so early in the morning. Joshua chuckled to himself as he thought of you walking by the beach with some "aesthetic song" playing in your mind. To add, Joshua guessed that it's most likely 'Mariners Apartment Complex' by Lana Del Rey.

The door opened, and Joshua glanced up to see Wonwoo with two cups of coffee. "Figured you haven't had coffee yet," Wonwoo said, handing one of the cups to Joshua and sitting on the seat where Mingyu sat.

'How ironic,' Joshua thought.

Sensing something weird, Wonwoo looked at him and asked, "What's on your mind?"

Joshua shrugged, taking a sip of his coffee, "Nothing. It's just.. ironic."

"What's so ironic?"

"Well," Joshua started, a small, amused smile forming on his lips, "it's just that Mingyu is currently in your seat."

"Oh, hyung." Wonwoo sighed, "We've been over this-"

"Now, you're on his." Joshua nodded towards the chair Wonwoo currently occupied.

"I don't get it."

Joshua laughed, "It's just so funny. Mingyu sat there earlier. We had a talk. It was nice. Now, you're sitting in his seat."

Wonwoo playfully rolled his eyes, "Ha ha, very funny. Is that how old guys joke?"

"I'm not THAT old!"

Now, it was Wonwoo's turn to laugh.

-

"You lose your way, just take my hand. You're lost at sea, then I'll command your boat to me again," You sang quietly to yourself.

'Mariners Apartment Complex' was always your go-to song if you wanted to have a moment to yourself. It makes you feel like the main character in a book you never seem to finish reading. Well, you kind of are. After all, your story isn't finished yet.

"Don't go too far, right where you are, that's where I am," You continued.

"I'm your man," a familiar voice finished for you. You turned your head and smiled when you saw Mingyu. Immediately, you cling to his arm, earning a chuckle from him.

"You look very beautiful, honey," Mingyu greeted sweetly, kissing the top of your head. "How's your morning so far?"

"It's great now that you're here," You smiled sincerely. "Did you sleep well last night? I know yesterday must've been overwhelming for you. It was your first day, after all. I'm sorry if I didn't check on you enough."

"Don't apologize, baby," Mingyu replied. "I slept well, thank you. Yes, I was overwhelmed, but I think I managed."

You stopped walking and pulled back slightly to get a good look at him. Mingyu looked at you, too. As he really looked at you, he began to feel a little ache in his chest. He missed you.

"You know," you started, "I really missed you yesterday. You were... kind of zoning in and out."

Mingyu sighed, "I know. I'm sorry, honey."

"Penny for your thought?" You looked at him with a small smile. Mingyu thought you were so cute.

"We should sit down for this," Mingyu said.

Sitting on the sand with you between Mingyu's legs with his arms wrapped around you, you began to relax and lean back on his chest. Mingyu felt relaxed, too, but he grew nervous about what he was about to tell you.

Unfortunately for him, you noticed immediately.

"You keep doing that," you murmured softly.

"Hm?"

"Thinking too hard." You leaned your head back slightly against his shoulder. "Your eyebrows scrunch together every time, and you're always so quiet."

Mingyu laughed quietly through his nose, "Sorry."

"You don't have to apologize for thinking."

"No," he sighed, tightening his arms around you a little. "But maybe I should apologize for the things I've been thinking about."

That caught your attention. What he said confirmed your thoughts. He was bothered and distracted about something. You slowly turned your head to look at him properly. Mingyu avoided your eyes at first, staring out at the ocean instead.

"Mingyu."

He gulped.

"I think..." He paused, trying to organize his thoughts. "I think I got so stuck in my own head that I forgot how to just be with you."

Your expression softened instantly. "You never have to try so hard around me," you whispered.

"I know that now." Mingyu laughed weakly. "Joshua hyung yelled at me this morning."

That made you snort.

"He did not yell at you. He could never yell, no matter how mad he is."

"Well, he spiritually yelled at me."

You laughed softly, and Mingyu felt his chest ache again because there it was—that sound he missed. That warmth. You.

"I've been weird," he admitted quietly. "And unfair."

"You've been overwhelmed," you corrected gently.

Mingyu shook his head. "No. Overwhelmed is part of it, but..." He exhaled slowly. "I think this started way before this trip."

You frowned slightly. "What do you mean?"

Mingyu stared quietly at the waves. Then, he laughed once to himself. "I don't think I ever told you this before."

There was a pause.

"I remember when you and Wonwoo hyung broke up."

You froze slightly in his arms. Mingyu noticed immediately. Rubbing your arms up and down, he quickly said, "I'm not bringing it up to hurt you. I just... I think that's the first time I realized how much space you took up in people's lives."

You stayed quiet, listening carefully.

Mingyu lowered his gaze to the sand.

"It was a few days before his graduation," he murmured softly. "And suddenly, you just weren't there anymore."

Suddenly, Mingyu was seventeen again.

It was a few days before Wonwoo's high school graduation when Mingyu noticed it. No, he didn't notice the breakup itself. He didn't bother learning about Wonwoo's relationship status. However, he did take note of your absence.

At first, he didn't think much about it. He was seventeen and oblivious, after all. He was more concerned about basketball practice, schoolwork, and whether or not he could convince Wonwoo to go eat after school. Eventually, Mingyu noticed something felt off. He realized you weren't around anymore.

Normally, you'd wait outside Wonwoo's classroom after school. Sometimes, you'd sit with them during lunch. Other times, you'd quietly do homework beside Wonwoo while Mingyu complained dramatically about his life.

You were just... there... every day. You were always clinging to Wonwoo like there's no tomorrow. Then suddenly, you weren't.

Mingyu remembered standing beside Wonwoo near the school gates while students flooded past them. "Y/N's not coming?" Mingyu asked casually.

Wonwoo didn't answer immediately. He just adjusted the strap of his bag and kept walking.

Mingyu blinked and quickly followed after him. "Did you guys fight?"

Still no response from Wonwoo. Now Mingyu was confused. Usually, Wonwoo answered him immediately, even when annoyed.

"Hyung?"

Wonwoo stopped walking and finally looked at him. Mingyu froze. Wonwoo looked exhausted. Not physically, but emotionally. Like someone had reached into his chest and pulled something important out of him.

"We broke up," Wonwoo said quietly.

Mingyu's eyes widened slightly. "Oh."

It wasn't that Mingyu couldn't believe it. The two of you had been together for so long that Mingyu genuinely never imagined you apart. Plus, he knew yours and Wonwoo's history. In his mind, you and Wonwoo were... endgame.

Wonwoo looked away again. Then, very softly, he said, "It's better this way. I'll be off to college soon. I'll be too busy adjusting, and she'll be too busy with senior year; you'll be too busy with senior year, too. It's just... It's just not meant for us, I suppose."

"But-"

"Mingyu-ya, please," Wonwoo said, tears threatening to fall from his eyes. "It's better this way." He repeated before walking off again.

Mingyu trailed behind him. Even at seventeen, Mingyu knew that was probably a lie.

When senior year came, Wonwoo was settled in college. Mingyu grew closer to you without even meaning to. He was there for you throughout your healing process. His friendship with Wonwoo took a pause because of Wonwoo's busy schedule at college.

Then, Mingyu realized he couldn't function without you. He would always look for you, and he'd always feel a sense of relief when he found you. He realized that he had been feeling that way ever since he met you. He didn't understand it at all. He's never felt it before.

Until one day, you hugged him goodbye when he walked you home. His heart flipped, and he had butterflies in his stomach. It finally sank in that he has liked you ever since he met you.

But, oh, how terrible he felt.

His best friend loved you. So much. You loved his best friend, too.

He felt like a traitor, but how can he resist you when you make his day brighter? So, it came as a surprise to him when you returned his feelings and eventually became his girlfriend.

Mingyu blinked slowly as the memory faded. "It's stupid," he murmured.

"No," you said softly.

He sighed. "Back then, I thought I was sad because Wonwoo hyung was sad."

His arms tightened around you slightly. "But now I think..." Mingyu swallowed hard. "Part of me noticed you were gone, too."

You stayed quiet for a long moment. Not because you didn't know what to say, but because your heart hurt for him. Mingyu had been carrying this for years. Quietly. Secretly. Alone.

Slowly, you turned around in his arms until you were facing him properly. His eyes avoided yours immediately. That alone nearly broke you.

"Mingyu," you whispered softly, holding his face gently. "Look at me."

He tried. God, he tried, but the moment his eyes met yours, they started watering instead.

"I know it's stupid," he laughed weakly, embarrassed. "I know it sounds insane."

"It doesn't."

"It does," Mingyu insisted quietly. "Because he's my best friend."

His voice cracked slightly on the last two words. "And I love you so much that sometimes it scares me."

Your expression crumbled instantly. Mingyu finally looked at you fully this time, eyes glassy and exhausted.

"I kept looking at him since yesterday," he admitted. "And every time I did, I kept thinking..." He swallowed hard. "I could never be like that."

Your brows pulled together painfully.

"I could never know your family the way he does. I could never fit into this place the way he does." Mingyu laughed bitterly. "Even Joshua hyung knows him better than me."

"Mingyu—"

"And then I started thinking stupid things." His voice grew quieter. "Like maybe when you look at me, part of you still looks for him too."

You looked genuinely heartbroken now, and Mingyu felt awful, but he owed it to your relationship to be honest.

"Sometimes I see him in the back of my mind," Mingyu confessed shakily. "Then I ask myself if you see him whenever you look me in the eyes."

A tear slipped down his face before he could stop it.

"And sometimes…" He inhaled sharply. "Sometimes I wonder if you wish you were holding him instead of me."

Your eyes filled with tears almost instantly. For a second, you genuinely couldn't speak. All this time, Mingyu had been loving you while secretly believing he was standing in someone else's place. That thought shattered something inside you.

"Oh, baby," you whispered brokenly. You cupped his face carefully, like he was something fragile. "Is that really what you've been thinking this whole time?"

Mingyu laughed shakily, embarrassed now that the words were finally out in the open. "It sounds pathetic when I say it out loud, huh?"

"No." Your voice cracked immediately. "No, it sounds heartbreaking. I'm sorry for making you think you couldn't tell me, but I understand you completely."

Another tear slipped down Mingyu's face, and you wiped it away quickly with your thumb.

"I need you to listen to me, okay?" you whispered.

Mingyu nodded weakly.

"I loved Wonwoo once."

Mingyu's face fell slightly despite himself.

"But I'm very much in love with you."

The difference hit him immediately.

"Really?" Mingyu cried. He couldn't help it.

You nodded, tears streaming down your face as well, "Yes, really. I'm in love with you, Kim Mingyu. I'm sorry for making you feel this way."

"No, I'm sorry for being stuck in my head instead of telling you how I feel."

You and Mingyu sat there, holding each other tight, as if one of you would disappear. Mingyu cried, and you did too. When both of you calmed down, Mingyu wiped your tears away before he wiped away his.

"I was looking at him, thinking I could never be like that," Mingyu said softly.

"But it's you who I want, and I wish you could see that."

"I see that now," Mingyu smiled and kissed your forehead. "I'm sorry for only seeing it now."

"It's okay." You smiled and kissed his lips. He gingerly kissed back and gently cupped your face. The kiss you shared wasn't lustful at all. It was sweet and light. After a few minutes, you pulled away and smiled.

Mingyu stared at you with a small smile etched on his face. He felt immensely better, but he knew he had to talk to Wonwoo.

"What's on your mind?" You asked, running a hand through Mingyu's hair.

"I just realized that I have to talk with Wonwoo hyung." Mingyu sighed. "Do you think he hates me?"

"Honey, trust me when I say this: Wonwoo could never hate you." You stated. You knew Wonwoo like the back of your hand. He could never hate the people close to him. Mingyu was—no, Mingyu is one of them.

"You think so?"

"I know so." You confirmed. "How about you relax first, hm? Let's walk around first. Then, talk to him tonight, after dinner."

"That sounds great, actually. My head hurts from crying."

CHAPTER 7: BEST FRIENDS DON'T HURT EACH OTHER, BUT BEST FRIENDS DON'T BETRAY EACH OTHER EITHER

By the time the two of you got back to the house, the sky had already begun turning orange. Your slippers scraped lightly against the wooden floors as you entered the beach house hand-in-hand with Mingyu. The moment Joshua spotted both of you, his eyes narrowed immediately.

"Oh," he said slowly. "You guys talked."

You immediately pointed at him accusingly. "Don't start."

Joshua raised both hands defensively. "I didn't even say anything!"

"You were about to."

"I absolutely was."

"Ugh, I know you so well, Joshua Hong."

"Well, I'm your very handsome older brother, Y/N Hong."

Mingyu laughed quietly beside you, and Joshua paused for a second. The sound caught him off guard. Not because Mingyu never laughed, but because this one sounded easy. Natural.

"You laughed," Joshua mentioned, eyes focused on Mingyu. He half expected Mingyu to cower in his gaze, but surprisingly, Mingyu laughed even more.

"Your dynamic is very funny. I'm really grateful to witness it. Thank you again for extending me an invitation." Mingyu smiled and bowed.

Joshua exchanged a brief glance with you before smirking slightly to himself. He was proud.

"Anyway," he stretched lazily from the couch, "go shower and change into something comfortable. Mom's making dinner, and apparently, we're all required to participate in Family Bonding Time tonight."

"Ahh, yes. The dreaded "night 2" of our trip. Why must they always do this?" You groaned.

"It's part of tradition, Y/Nie." Joshua sighed, not excited either. "You do know that we'll be the ones carrying this tradition, right? All our kids will be here, and we'll be the ones drinking wine after dinner."

"That sounds threatening," Mingyu muttered.

"It is." Joshua nodded.

From the kitchen, your mother yelled, "Joshua!"

Joshua grimaced immediately, "See?"

You burst into laughter while Mingyu smiled properly for what felt like the first time since arriving.

And somehow, the entire house felt lighter because of it.

Dinner felt lighter tonight, and Mingyu noticed it immediately. This time, when Joshua teased him, he teased back. When your mother asked him to help bring drinks outside, he didn't panic internally before standing up. Even Wonwoo's father had gotten him involved in some ridiculous conversation about beach resorts and grilled meat.

And for the first time since arriving, Mingyu laughed without forcing it. More importantly, he stopped looking for Wonwoo every five seconds. Instead, he looked at you. And every time he did, you smiled back immediately.

On the other hand, Wonwoo noticed Mingyu's sudden change. It was refreshing to see the Mingyu he once knew. Whenever Wonwoo would look at him, he'd often see the shy, nerdy Mingyu who stood by the door of the gym to watch basketball practices. In some way, Wonwoo could still see that version despite having a few changes.

The old Mingyu didn't bother with skincare, but the new Mingyu seemed to be very excited about sharing his routine with Joshua and his younger brother.

The old Mingyu didn't care about his body proportions. If it were up to old Mingyu, he'd stay the same, but the new Mingyu just invited Joshua to the gym he frequents and even showed off a little bit of his arms, which made the moms (and you) swoon.

Despite all that, Wonwoo could still see how Mingyu would be shy when offered more bulgogi. He could see that while he was being talkative, he still wasn't confident enough about what he was going to say. Somehow, that made Wonwoo feel at home.

Wonwoo was really proud of Mingyu. He just wished Mingyu would see that.

By the time dinner ended, Mingyu felt strangely calm. The kitchen slowly filled with the familiar sounds of cleanup. Plates clinked softly. Your mother and Wonwoo's parents disappeared into the living room. Joshua kept stealing pieces of fruit while helping to dry the dishes, despite being scolded repeatedly.

Wonwoo stood beside the sink quietly rinsing glasses. Mingyu watched him for a moment.

"It's now or never," Mingyu thought to himself. Taking a deep breath, he asked, "Hyung?"

Wonwoo glanced over immediately. "Hm?"

Mingyu shoved his hands into his pockets awkwardly. "Do you.. wanna drink outside for a bit... later?"

There was only a brief pause. Wonwoo looked at him carefully. Not suspicious. Not upset. Just attentive. Then he nodded once, "Sure."

Wonwoo wasn't dumb. He knew what was about to happen. It wasn't just a drink. It was more than that.

Night 2 of this two-week vacation was a hit. The whole family played charades that somehow turned into a round of "What Are You Most Grateful For?" and "What Bad Habits Do You Want To Get Rid Of?" Mingyu was most surprised because everyone listened with no judgment. If he did that with his family, he'd probably get a scolding afterward.

As the house grew quieter, the parents had gone upstairs first. Wonwoo's younger brother went up next. Soon, Joshua followed after claiming he was "emotionally exhausted from being everyone's therapist". You laughed at that from the living room while Mingyu nearly choked on his drink.

Eventually, even you grew sleepy.

"You coming?" you asked softly, standing near the staircase.

Mingyu looked up from the couch. For a split second, guilt flashed across his face before he smiled gently.

"In a bit, baby."

You nodded sleepily, completely unaware. Walking over, you pressed a sweet kiss against his lips before heading upstairs. Wonwoo watched the interaction quietly from the dining area. He smiled to himself, knowing that you were in good hands.

The moment your bedroom door closed upstairs, silence settled over the house again. Mingyu inhaled slowly, then stood up. Wonwoo followed him outside without needing to be asked twice.

The night air felt colder now. Waves crashed softly against the shore nearby while the wooden deck creaked beneath their weight. Mingyu sat down first, beer bottle hanging loosely from his hand. Wonwoo sat beside him. Not too close, not too far. For a while, neither of them spoke.

Mingyu stared ahead at the dark ocean while Wonwoo quietly took a sip from his drink. It almost reminded Mingyu of high school again.

Late nights after basketball practice. Convenience store ramen. Walking home together in silence that never felt awkward. Going to the mall on weekends when Wonwoo is free. Playing games together until god knows when.

Back then, Mingyu thought nothing could ever come between them; that nothing could ever become strange between them. Now, he didn't even know where to begin.

As observant as ever, Wonwoo saw the conflict in Mingyu's eyes. He also noted that Mingyu was swirling his drink a lot, a nervous habit. Wonwoo noticed that Mingyu bit his bottom lip longer than usual. He's worried that it might bleed. If Mingyu wasn't going to say the elephant in the room, Wonwoo would give him a nudge.

"You can still tell me anything, Mingyu-yah," Wonwoo said in a soft voice. Mingyu looked at him in surprise.

"What?"

Wonwoo fully turned to look at him and said, "I can tell that you want to say something or ask something. Just go ahead. I'm not a stranger, Mingyu. I was once your best friend."

Mingyu didn't know where to begin. He was so caught up in everything in his head that he blurted out something else instead.

"Do you remember when we used to walk home together after practice?"

Wonwoo smiled faintly, "You complained the entire time."

"Because you never bought me food."

Wonwoo laughed quietly. "Well, I was saving up for dates. I didn't exactly have a job back then. I was depending on allowance."

Mingyu's smile slowly disappeared. "I miss that."

"Me, too." Wonwoo smiled fondly. "We really were attached at the hip before. Contrary to belief, I didn't have a lot of friends. I kept a small circle, and part of that circle is you. You're my best friend."

Mingyu laughed quietly, but there was nothing happy about it.

"That's kind of the problem, hyung."

Wonwoo stayed silent, tilting his head a little as he kept his gaze on Mingyu. Mingyu stared down at his drink. "I think I forgot how to be your friend somewhere along the way."

As soon as Mingyu said those words, tears began to brim in his eyes. He really didn't want to cry in front of his hyung, but he couldn't help it. He felt terrible.

"Why would you think that?" Wonwoo asked. He wasn't born last night. Of course, he had an inkling of what Mingyu was trying to say, but he wanted Mingyu to man up and say it directly. He wanted him to elaborate so they could talk like grown-ups. Most of all, he wanted to ease his best friend's pain. Wonwoo knew that Mingyu wouldn't enjoy his relationship with you if he were stuck with whatever's going on in his head.

"I felt like I stole something that was never mine to touch," Mingyu said through his tears. He looked at Wonwoo, who just nodded for him to continue.

"When she started coming around, I was nervous at first. I'd usually just hear about her, but seeing her in the flesh, I was weirdly happy. I guess I was very happy for you because you found someone you connected with at such a young age. Your eyes would light up every time she'd walk in the room. You looked at her like she hung the stars. She was your whole world."

Wonwoo smiled at that and nodded for him to continue again. It was true. Wonwoo really did look at you that way. You were his first love, the love of his life. Now, he looked at you fondly. Kind of how people look at their first love.

"I didn't know when it stopped being admiration and started becoming something worse. I genuinely kept hoping it would go away. Do you know how awful I felt the first time I realized I liked her?"

"Awful?" Wonwoo asked with furrowed brows. "How come?"

"You were heartbroken, hyung. And I was sitting there realizing I couldn't stop thinking about her or how she's doing or how heartbroken she must feel. Then, when it was just me and Y/N for senior year, we got closer. Then I just.. I started falling for her, hyung." Mingyu sighed, setting down his drink and running a hand through his hair. Wonwoo noted that Mingyu was frustrated and feeling many different things at once.

"I felt like I stole something that was never mine to touch." Mingyu sighed, not even bothering to wipe his tears away. "Every time I looked at her, I felt happy at first... then guilty right after because I'd see you in the back of my mind. Then I think of you hating me for loving someone you once loved; someone who was the love of your life."

"You really thought I'd hate you for that?" Wonwoo almost scoffed. "Mingyu, I was sad because we broke up. Not because she belonged to me. Y/N's a person. You love her. That's not betrayal. The betrayal was that you thought I'd hate you for having feelings you couldn't control."

"You started looking at me like I was someone to be afraid of. I kept wondering why you stopped calling me. I missed my best friend before I ever missed being someone's boyfriend. Do you know how lonely that sounds?" Wonwoo sighed. All his pent-up feelings were finally being released. However, he needed to let it out one by one.

Mingyu cried even more.

"What sucks is that you trusted me, hyung. I thought being happy with her automatically made me a terrible person. Yesterday, every time you were nice to me, I felt worse. I was invited here, but I felt like it was required, not because I'm actually wanted."

Wonwoo shifted in his seat to turn fully and look at him. "Mingyu, I vouched for you because I knew you'd love her properly. Joshua's hard to convince, but when I told him about you, he allowed it because he knew it would make her happy. Joshua is very much in tune with his sister, and I am too. You think I can't tell when she's happy?"

Mingyu could only look at him through his tears.

"Before she was my girlfriend, she was my best friend. She still is. She's very happy with you, Mingyu. As her best friend, I'm very happy to see her happy. That's what matters. What hurt me the most was that you stopped being my best friend long before you started dating her."

"I felt like I needed to compete with you," Mingyu cried, cheeks red and lips pouting.

"You were never competing with me, Mingyu." Wonwoo shook his head. "I told this to Joshua hyung, and now I'm telling you the same thing: I never wanted another version of me for her. The way we love her is different. She chose you. I think you punished yourself more than I ever could, and I'm so sorry that you had to go through that pain alone. Best friends are supposed to hurt with each other, not away from each other."

Silence.

Mingyu covered his face with his hands and just started bawling his eyes out. Wonwoo could feel a pang in his chest as he watched his best friend break down in front of him. 'He must've held that in for a long time', Wonwoo thought.

When Mingyu calmed down a little bit, Wonwoo took a deep breath and said, "If I'm being honest, when Y/N told Joshua about you, and he relayed it to me, I was kind of... mad. I'm only human, after all. I get sad and mad, too. For a few weeks, I was in a bad mood, and I felt betrayed—"

"See?! I betrayed you—"

"But I didn't let it linger, Mingyu." Wonwoo cut him off. If he didn't, he knew Mingyu would spiral once more. "I chose to let it go because I realized that she's a person who deserves to be loved, just. Like. You. Granted, it took some time for me to move on, but if both of you love each other so well, who am I to stop it?"

Mingyu groaned in frustration, "But I liked her while you were dating, hyung. Albeit unknowingly, but still. I was looking for her all the time, and I— I stared at her, too."

Wonwoo snickered, "You didn't think I'd notice? Of course, I knew. I trusted both of you. I know you well enough to know that you wouldn't do anything to hurt me. I know you're not the type of person to steal or betray. I can't really blame you, either. She's a catch, isn't she?"

Wonwoo looked at him expectantly, and Mingyu gave a small nod in agreement before Wonwoo continued speaking.

"Back then, I didn't mind you having a secret crush on her because I knew she went home with me at the end of the day. At that time, she chose me, but that was so long ago, Mingyu. She chose you now. And I'm so happy that I get to see her happy."

Wonwoo laughed quietly through his nose. "You know what the worst part was?"

Mingyu looked up slowly.

"I kept seeing things that reminded me of you."

Oh, Mingyu wanted to cry again.

"Convenience store ramen." Wonwoo smiled faintly. "Basketball shoes that you were obsessed with and have been saving up for. That stupid grape drink you liked."

Wonwoo looked down and added, "And every time something happened, I still wanted to call you first."

"I thought if I chose her, I'd lose you," Mingyu said quietly. Then, he laughed weakly through his tears, "Then I realized I was losing you, anyway."

Mingyu stared at him quietly. Then, his face crumpled all over again. "I'm sorry," he choked out.

Wonwoo blinked. "Mingyu—"

"No, hyung, I'm serious." Mingyu wiped at his face harshly. "I'm so sorry." His voice cracked. "I left you alone, too."

Then, Wonwoo had tears streaming down his face. That made Mingyu cry all over again. Both of them felt silly, just crying so hard in the middle of the night. But somehow, it felt good to release all of it.

Wonwoo wiped his tears and stared at him for a long time before sighing. Then he reached over and pulled Mingyu into a tight hug. "C'mere, you."

Mingyu froze instantly. "Hyung—"

"Stop thinking so hard," Wonwoo muttered quietly as he gave a few comforting pats on Mingyu's back. It was enough to make Mingyu cry all over again.

After a while, Wonwoo pulled away and wiped Mingyu's tears.

"You still look ugly when you cry," Wonwoo said with a deadpanned expression.

Mingyu gasped through his tears. "You're literally evil."

"And dramatic," Wonwoo added. "You're evil and dramatic, too."

"I learned from you, hyung." Mingyu chuckled.

"I learned from Joshua hyung." Wonwoo laughed, which made Mingyu laugh, too.

"So," Mingyu started, "are we okay?"

"We're more than okay, Mingyu-yah," Wonwoo confirmed. "We'll be just fine."

EPILOGUE - MONTHS LATER

Sunday mornings had started feeling familiar again. This week, you and Mingyu went home to your childhood home. Wonwoo came along, too. After all, he only lived next door.

The sound of pans clinking downstairs. Your mother is humming worship songs in the kitchen. Joshua is complaining dramatically about waking up early despite being awake for the past hour already.

Mingyu woke up slowly to the warmth of sunlight spilling across your bedroom floor. For a moment, he simply lay there, staring at the ceiling while listening to the muffled sound downstairs.

A few months ago, Mingyu would've panicked waking up in this house. He would've overthought every interaction waiting for him downstairs. Wondered if he was intruding. Wondered if everyone secretly preferred someone else sitting beside you at breakfast.

Now?

"Kim Mingyu! Y/N Hong!" Joshua yelled from downstairs. "If you don't wake up right now, I'm stealing all the fried rice!"

Mingyu snorted to himself. Yeah, things were different now.

Beside him, you groaned softly into your pillow. "Tell Joshua I hate him."

"He says good morning to you, too, baby."

You cracked one eye open and frowned sleepily. "What time is it?"

"Church time."

That got an even louder groan out of you.

Mingyu laughed quietly before sitting up properly. Your bedroom door was slightly open, and he could already smell breakfast drifting upstairs. He rubbed his face tiredly before glancing around your room.

Then his eyes landed on something familiar sitting on your desk. Your Bible. Mingyu stared at it for a moment. Then, without even thinking too hard about it, he stood up and walked over. By the time you dragged yourself out of bed, Mingyu was already sitting on the small couch near your window. Your Bible rested in his hands while he squinted suspiciously at one of the pages.

You blinked sleepily at the sight. "…What are you doing?"

Mingyu didn't even look up. "Apparently, a man got swallowed by a whale."

You burst into laughter instantly. Mingyu finally looked at you with the same expression he had months ago—genuine disbelief mixed with betrayal.

"I'm serious! Why are these stories so intense?" He flipped the page dramatically. "And why does nobody react normally?!"

You fell back onto the bed laughing while Mingyu fought back a smile.

"You know," he murmured quietly, looking back down at the page, "I think I get why you like this stuff now."

Your laughter softened immediately. Mingyu traced absentmindedly over one of your highlighted verses with his thumb.

"It's comforting." He shrugged softly. "Messy people trying their best. Loving each other badly sometimes. Still being forgiven anyway."

You stared at him for a moment. Then your expression melted completely. "Oh," you whispered.

Mingyu looked up immediately. "What?"

"Nothing," you smiled emotionally. "I just love you."

Mingyu's face softened so quickly it almost hurt to look at. Before he could answer, Joshua suddenly appeared at the doorway holding car keys.

"Love each other later," he deadpanned. "We're gonna be late for church."

You threw a pillow at him immediately. Joshua dodged it easily before tossing the car keys toward Mingyu instead. Mingyu caught them automatically.

"You're driving today," Joshua said casually.

Mingyu blinked. "Me?"

"Yes, you. Mom likes your driving better." Joshua shrugged before turning around dramatically. "Also, hurry up, brother-in-law. Mom hates being late for church."

Silence. You froze. Joshua kept walking downstairs like he hadn't just changed the trajectory of someone's entire emotional state. Meanwhile, Mingyu sat there completely still.

Brother-in-law.

Not guest. Not Y/N's boyfriend. Not Wonwoo's friend.

Family.

You looked at him carefully. "Gyu?"

Mingyu laughed quietly to himself. Then he looked around your room. At your Bible in his lap. At the sunlight spilling through the windows. At you standing in front of him, looking half-awake and beautiful.

Home.

For the first time in a long time, Mingyu stopped wondering whether he belonged there. Because somewhere along the way, without even noticing, he already did.

-

Mass had already ended ten minutes ago. Unfortunately, your mother had no intentions of leaving anytime soon. You sat slumped dramatically against the church pew while Joshua stared blankly into space beside you like a soldier returning from war. Near the altar, your mother continued happily chatting with three different church friends while occasionally pointing toward the two of you.

"I think she's introducing our entire bloodline at this point," Joshua muttered.

You sighed. "She's been saying goodbye since mass ended."

"Classic mom behavior." Joshua shook his head and crossed his arms. "Gosh, imagine how long it'll take her to say goodbye to her church friends when we give her grandkids."

"Oh, lord, I don't want to think about that, yet." You huffed. "The kids would fall asleep first before she finishes saying goodbye."

Mingyu sat quietly beside you, amused. A few months ago, he would've felt awkward sitting here. Out of place. Like, he didn't belong in the middle of your family traditions. Now? Now he was just sleepy.

Just then, his phone buzzed in his pocket. Mingyu blinked before checking the screen.

Wonwoo Hyung Don't let Joshua hyung pick the worship songs on the drive home. He thinks Hillsong is club music.

Mingyu snorted loudly. Joshua narrowed his eyes immediately, "What?"

Just as Mingyu opened his mouth to respond, another text came in that garnered his attention.

Wonwoo Hyung Also, your church is terrifying. Why does everyone know your name already?? You must be popular among the ahjummas.

This time, Mingyu laughed, shoulders shaking and all. You leaned against him curiously, "Who's texting you?"

"Mhm," Mingyu hummed, trying not to smile too hard. Then, another message appeared.

Wonwoo Hyung Wanna buy a shit ton of ramen and play games later?

Mingyu stared at the message for a second. Then slowly, he smiled. Beside him, Joshua groaned dramatically.

"Oh my god," he whispered in horror.

You blinked and looked at Joshua, "What?"

Joshua pointed toward your mother across the church. "She's starting another conversation."

You groaned and started ranting with Joshua again while Mingyu typed back.

Mingyu: only if you're buying the ramen :p Wonwoo Hyung: Me again?! You never changed istg. Fine.

Mingyu looked down at the screen and laughed quietly to himself. Yeah, some things never change, and maybe that was a good thing.

a/n: my bread and butter is finally out! please please please send me some feedback! I'd really appreciate a like, reblog, or a comment! :>

feel free to send over an ask if you wanna talk abt this fic or just want to give a review in general! I'd love to talk about it with y'all :)

[nerdycheol]

Whoever sees this should read this. It's written so well I just love it so much. It's sad it's getting only these many responses. If you like it let the authors know don't just stay silent!!!

[shuajunice]

omg the tags kjgsagks thank you so much for this 🥺

[shuajunice]

i rlly like my new username :>

[shuajunice]

His Ghost Still Lingers | J.W.W & K.M.G

Pairing: ex!wonwoo x fem!reader, current bf!mingyu x fem!reader, mingyu x wonwoo [platonic], older bro!joshua x fem!reader Summary: Can love survive when the past is still there, but no longer yours? Mingyu knows you love him. But whenever Jeon Wonwoo is near, he feels something unspoken settle between them; something he was never meant to fully understand, but can’t ignore either. Warning/s: angst, sad mingyu, insecure mingyu, some religious stuff Notes: banner by me, non-idol au Song/s: wildflower by billie eilish, this is me trying by taylor swift, needy by ariana grande, ghostin by ariana grande, pov by ariana grande Word count: 15,873

CHAPTER 1: TRADITIONS DON'T DIE

Every year, your family would organize a two-week vacation with the Jeons. They've been friends long before they had children. So, it was a no-brainer for them to live next to each other. When Joshua was born, Mrs. Jeon was already expecting. A few months later, in July, she had Wonwoo. Then, you were born in 1997, and Wonwoo's brother was born the year after.

You all grew up alongside each other—holidays, birthdays, ordinary days that blurred into something constant. So it didn’t come as a surprise to anyone when you and Wonwoo started dating. Your mom was thrilled, Joshua didn’t worry (it was Wonwoo, after all), and his parents had already been treating you like family long before anything changed.

Before dating, you and Wonwoo were the best of friends. By the time you and Wonwoo made it official, it was easy. It felt like stepping into something that had always been there. You stayed that way for years, until he left for college, and somewhere along the distance, things quietly fell apart.

The tradition didn't.

This year's two-week vacation will be held at a beach resort. It's also a special family vacation because this year, your family had invited Mingyu, your boyfriend. It's the first time you're bringing someone.

Well, not that it's entirely new. Wonwoo has been coming along for years due to your history. So while you went on the annual trip as lovers, he never really counted as a guest; he was just there, part of it.

Mingyu isn't.

Still, he was invited without much hesitation. After all, Wonwoo was the one who vouched for him when your mom and Joshua asked.

Spending two weeks at a beach resort was something you, Joshua, and the Jeon children were looking forward to. Especially now that Mingyu's in the picture. Wonwoo liked Mingyu. After all, they were best buds in high school until college.

The weather was perfect. The air was warm, the kind that clung to your skin. The wind was just right and there weren't many people at the beach.

You and Mingyu were sitting on a beach towel with a big umbrella sticking from the sand. Before Mingyu could fully settle into the moment, you leaned up and pressed a quick, sweet kiss to his lips.

"I'll go join Joshua in the water," you smiled as you glanced toward the shoreline where your brother was waiting, waving his arms already calling you over.

Mingyu blinked once, still stunned by the kiss, then nodded with a small smile. "Alright. I'll get us ice cream then."

You got up from the beach towel and looked at him, "Don't trip and fall. Only fall in line and in love with me."

"Dangerous instructions," he said, eyes flicking to the water. "Just don't drown before I get there."

"I won't!" You grinned, before turning and jogging off toward the water.

Mingyu watched you with a big smile on his face before getting up to buy ice cream for the two of you.

The sun was harsher and hotter near the stalls. Mingyu waited in line, shifting on his feet, watching the sand, listening to the distant crash of waves. He had a semi-permanent squint on his face, mentally cursing himself for not bringing his glasses, and sweat dripping from his forehead. When it was finally his turn, he bought the ice creams, paid for them and began the journey back to your spot.

That was when he looked up and saw you.

You were in the water now, laughing as Wonwoo effortlessly lifted you before tossing you back into the shallow waves. You splashed down with a sound that was too bright to ignore. Nearby, Joshua was laughing like he'd seen this exact scene a hundred times before.

Oh, because he had seen this before. He'd seen it since forever. As kids. As teenagers. When you were together—and after you weren’t. He'd seen your whole story.

Mingyu stopped walking. The sight made him sick. The ice cream in his hands started to drip faster. At first, he didn't notice. He was too busy watching the way you resurfaced; hair wet, cheeks flushed, cursing, and laughing as if nothing in the world could weigh you down. Wonwoo stood nearby, relaxed, like this was normal.

To be fair, this had always been normal. He was the only outsider after all.

Mingyu gulped. The cones softened in his grip; his hands were now sticky with melted ice cream.

Then, you looked up. Your eyes found him instantly. "Hey!" you called with a bright smile, lifting a hand above the water, "Come here!"

For a moment, everything stilled. Joshua turned first, then Wonwoo, both following your gaze. Wonwoo was cool with Mingyu. Wonwoo looked the same as always: calm, unreadable, all resting bitch face and quiet eyes.

And Joshua? Joshua was harder to read. Sometimes, Mingyu felt like he was being quietly evaluated by Joshua, as if checking if he could live up to the standards Wonwoo set. Other times, you'd say Mingyu was overthinking because Joshua was, and he quotes, "a literal cinnamon roll". Joshua definitely didn't give Mingyu "cinnamon roll" vibes. If anything, Joshua's the definition of the "looks like a cinnamon roll but can actually kill you" meme.

Mingyu felt the shift immediately; the awareness of being seen. Something inside him tightened, sharp and quiet.

He took a deep breath and smiled. Quick. Easy. Familiar. Like nothing was wrong. Like he wasn't standing there with melting ice cream in his hands, watching a world he wasn't part of.

"Yeah," he called back, lifting the cones slightly as he jogged over to where you were. "Coming, honey!"

Mingyu watched as you got out of the water and met him halfway. You smiled, kissed his cheek, and grabbed one of the ice cream cones.

"Thank you, handsome." You grinned, immediately eating your ice cream.

"Sorry if it melted." Mingyu said, eating his own ice cream. You shrugged it off and said it was fine. When you were both finished, you dragged Mingyu to join Wonwoo and Joshua.

The four of you began to swim around, laugh, splash each other, and just talk about life. Naturally, you drift into an easy conversation with Wonwoo. To you, it was nothing but a conversation with a friend. To Mingyu, it was different.

"Remember when we went to the cafe near the house?" You asked Wonwoo and he laughed.

"Of course!" Wonwoo caught his breath, "It was hilarious. We went there because it was the grand opening and because you were so excited, you bumped into the window thinking it was the door!"

You splashed Wonwoo and laughed.

Mingyu watched. He felt... off. Back in high school, Mingyu never paid much attention to you beyond being Wonwoo's girlfriend. He never really paid any mind to you whenever you'd watch their basketball practices. He never paid you any mind when Wonwoo would cancel game sessions just for you. It wasn't until after the breakup, when Wonwoo left, and you stayed behind, that Mingyu really got to know you.

You were left behind with Mingyu because you were in the same year. Then you grew closer and by the time you were college freshmen, you've been dating him since graduation.

Oh, you were absolutely his whole world.

However, he can't help but feel guilty every time he looks at Wonwoo. He was your first love, after all. Your first love, who still kind of... hovered. Wonwoo didn't beat him up for dating you. Wonwoo didn't unfriend him for dating you. Wonwoo was just... Wonwoo.

Seeing you two fall into a familiar rhythm just did a number on him, and he didn't know if he should go lie down or go home and cry where nobody could see him. Unbeknownst to him, Joshua paid attention to him. Joshua saw how his shoulders slightly dropped as soon as you and Wonwoo entered your own little world. Joshua noticed how distant Mingyu was when the three of you laughed about some old anecdote that Wonwoo shared.

He saw everything.

Joshua drifted closer to Mingyu and slightly nudged him, "You okay?"

Mingyu quickly glanced at Joshua and immediately laughed it off. Joshua knew it was fake, but for Mingyu's sake, he 'bought' it.

"Yes, hyung." Mingyu smiled, though it didn't reach his eyes. "Everything's going... swimmingly. Why wouldn't it be?"

Joshua hummed at that, unconvinced in a way that wasn’t cruel, just observant. His eyes lingered for half a second longer before he finally looked away. “No reason,” he said simply.

And that somehow made it worse.

A moment later, you turned toward them, brushing wet hair out of your face as you walked closer. "You two are being weirdly quiet," you said suspiciously, narrowing your eyes playfully.

Mingyu panicked, but Joshua saved the situation.

"Mingyu's just grumpy because his ice cream melted." Joshua snorted. Mingyu glanced at him and Joshua raised his brows expectantly.

"It was tragic, actually," Mingyu replied, turning to you, slipping into the familiar version of himself before you could look any closer.

Your expression softened immediately. "I'll buy you another one," you promised, loosely grabbing his wrist. "I mean, I know we had ice cream already, but another one wouldn't hurt, right?"

Mingyu stared at your face as you gave him a smile. And just like that, the tightness in his chest loosened enough for him to breathe again.

He's really in love with you.

"C'mon," you kissed his cheek as you tugged him gently toward the shore. "Walk with me, handsome?"

"Always, beautiful."

You waved at Joshua and Wonwoo as you walked with Mingyu to shore.

Wonwoo watched the two of you walk farther down the shoreline, your hand still loosely wrapped around Mingyu's wrist as waves chased your footsteps. For a while, neither he nor Joshua said anything. The only sound between them was the water shifting against the shore and your laughter carrying faintly through the wind.

Then Wonwoo spoke, "They're good together."

Joshua glanced sideways at him, brows lifting slightly. "Yeah?"

For the first time, Joshua wasn't on the same page as him. It wasn't anything Mingyu did or didn’t do, but Joshua was used to Wonwoo. Used to the certainty that came with him. He'd never had to worry before because it had always been Wonwoo. And maybe that was the problem. In Joshua's mind, Wonwoo had quietly set a standard no one else could reach. So, to hear Wonwoo say that Mingyu's a good match for you? That was skeptical.

"Mingyu makes her happy." Wonwoo shrugged, eyes still fixed ahead.

"That's not what I'm skeptical about." Joshua shook his head.

That finally pulled Wonwoo's attention. Joshua sighed quietly dragging a hand through his wet hair before looking back toward you. "She likes him. A lot, actually." He paused. "I just don't know if Mingyu fully understands what he signed up for."

Wonwoo frowned a bit, "What's that supposed to mean?"

Joshua was quiet for a second, carefully gathering his thoughts. "He's dating someone with a history she can't separate herself from," he said eventually. "Most people say they're okay with that until they actually have to live beside it."

Wonwoo's expression shifted—subtle, almost unreadable. "You think he's bothered."

"I think he's trying very hard not to be."

The waves rolled softly around them. Joshua watched the way Mingyu instinctively slowed his pace to match yours farther down the shore, the way you leaned into him without thinking.

"And honestly?" Joshua muttered. "I don't know if anyone could treat her the way you did."

Wonwoo looked away at that, jaw tightening slightly.

"She was loved properly with you," Joshua continued. "That's hard to follow."

For a moment, neither of them spoke. Farther ahead, Mingyu said something that made you laugh loudly enough for the sound to carry back toward them. Instantly, his entire expression softened as he looked at you.

Wonwoo noticed it. Joshua did too. And maybe that was why Joshua sighed, quieter this time.

"But he really does love her."

Wonwoo nodded once. "I know."

Joshua's gaze lingered on the two of you for another second before he finally looked away.

"I just hope he doesn't spend the entire relationship feeling like he's competing with something he was never supposed to beat."

"Hyung," Wonwoo started, "don't be like that. Just give him some time. We're different people. The way I loved her was different and the way he loves her is different. He'll be setting his own standard, he shouldn't follow whatever standard you think I've set."

"I'll try." Joshua nodded. "For her."

While waiting in line at the ice cream stall, your arms were wrapped around Mingyu's waist. He had one arm wrapped around you, and the other stayed on his side.

"What flavor are you getting?" You asked.

"Hmm," Mingyu thought. "Maybe chocolate and a scoop of vanilla with chocolate drizzle."

"Wow." You laughed.

Mingyu hated himself a little for thinking this way. Nothing about this was wrong. You weren't hiding anything from him. You weren't sneaking around or crossing lines or giving him reasons to doubt you. If anything, you had always been honest about Wonwoo—about what he meant to you, about the years you spent together, about how important he still was in your life.

Mingyu understood that. He truly did.

After all, he was a witness of yours and Wonwoo's love story from before and he was a witness of your healing journey on your fourth year of high school because you and him were left behind.

But understanding something and feeling okay about it were two different things.

Because every time he looked at the two of you together, he became painfully aware of how much history existed between you. Not just romantic history. Something older and deeper built into the way you moved around each other without thinking. You and Wonwoo naturally fit beside each other in a way Mingyu still had to learn.

God, that sounded horrible in his head. It made him feel petty. Ungrateful. Insecure in ways he never thought he'd be. After all, he has you. It's him you're dating now, not Wonwoo.

It's him you were kissing. It's his hand you were holding. It's him you're looking for in crowded spaces. It's him you loved openly.

Somehow, he couldn't get that through his head.

After paying for both of your ice creams, you and Mingyu slowly walked back to your spot while talking about random things and the upcoming academic year. Mingyu dreaded it, if he were being honest. This meant he'd see Wonwoo again, and he'd see you drag Wonwoo around while he trailed behind both of you, feeling like a third wheel in his own relationship.

He lightly shook his head and blinked. 'What the fuck is wrong with me?', Mingyu thought.

Wonwoo wasn't a threat. He's not... right?

Mingyu wasn't sure. He knew he was spiraling. Knew he was making himself miserable over something he couldn't even explain properly.

But calling it "nothing" felt unfair, too. Because to him, it isn't nothing.

You lightly nudged Mingyu when you noticed him grow quieter. He glanced at you, and you stopped walking.

He stopped too, and fully turned to you. You stared at him and said, "You've been quiet."

"Have I?" Mingyu asked, playing dumb. After all, it was easier.

"Mhm", you nodded as you continued eating your ice cream. "You okay?"

Mingyu stared at you, and he could've sworn he heard Joshua. It was as if reality was glitching. First, he saw you; then Joshua; then he saw you again; then Joshua. It was alternating quickly. It also didn't help that you and Joshua looked very similar.

"Baby? You okay?"

Mingyu snapped out of it. Now, he saw you with a worried look etched on your pretty face. He gave you a small smile, "I'm fine. Just... distracted."

"Distracted? Wanna talk about it?" You asked sweetly, intertwining your hands together.

"It's nothing serious, babe. It's just... I just realized how much you and Joshua hyung look alike." Mingyu smiled.

You chuckled lightly, "That's it? Well, he's my older brother. Of course, we'd resemble each other."

You reached up and brushed his hair back, "Thank god it's nothing serious. I was worried about you. Let's walk back?"

Mingyu nodded once, "Yup. Let's go, honey."

Mingyu was emotionally distraught. His heart melted when you said you were worried about him, but part of him felt sick.

You weren't the problem. It was him.

CHAPTER 2: THE DREADED FAMILY DINNER

Before you and Mingyu dated, he was very close to Wonwoo. Of course, he was quite the nerdy kid back then. Wonwoo had been one of the few people genuinely nice to him; nice enough to let him join the basketball team. There, Mingyu excelled. He was still nerdy, but he gained a bit of confidence and an improved sense of style thanks to Wonwoo.

Mingyu barely saw you back then because Wonwoo liked to keep his relationship private. Mingyu knew your face before he knew you. He would smile and wave at you politely when you watched practices. Sometimes, he would hear Wonwoo talk sweetly with you on the phone when they hung out at the mall.

He remembered getting a bit jealous of Wonwoo because he had a special someone he could talk to about anything and everything. No matter how hard Mingyu tried back then, connections never seemed to come easily.

How funny fate turned out.

Now, Mingyu was in Wonwoo's seat, and he didn't know if he liked it. He loved you. He really did. But sometimes, being in Wonwoo's place felt a little like standing where everyone still remembered the person before you, all because Jeon Wonwoo sat before him.

Mingyu stared at Wonwoo as he placed some japchae on your mom's plate and the right amount of kimchi on Joshua's plate. He could do that, too, but apparently, it was always Wonwoo's job to do so. Wonwoo wasn't required to do it, no. It just so happened that Wonwoo has been doing it since forever.

Dinner settled into the same rhythm it always did.

Plates shifted around the table. Someone asked for water. Someone complained about the heat outside. Your mom kept insisting everyone eat more despite the fact that the table was already crowded with food.

It was normal, comfortable, familiar. It's the kind of familiar Mingyu had wished for.

Then, Joshua laughed suddenly.

"Oh my god," he said, putting his chopsticks down. "Do you remember that camping trip?"

Immediately, you looked up. "No."

Wonwoo looked up, too. "Yes."

You pointed at Wonwoo dramatically, "Don't encourage him."

Alas, it was too late. Wonwoo was already smiling, Joshua continued to laugh, your parents were amused, you groaned, and Mingyu had no clue what was going on.

Joshua began recounting the time you, Joshua, Wonwoo, and his younger brother went camping. It was a spontaneous trip. Joshua had just received his driver's license and decided it'd be fun to go camping for the weekend.

"That was the weekend I told you I'd be gone, Mingyu-ah." Wonwoo smiled at Mingyu. "That's why I couldn't help you with your project."

Mingyu nodded and said something along the lines of, "Oh, right. I remember."

"Y/Nie cried over a frog!" Joshua cackled and clapped his hands. Everyone laughed, too.

"Noona screamed so loud that Shua hyung almost dropped the grill." Wonwoo's younger brother snickered.

"It jumped on me!" You exclaimed and pouted, resting your head on Mingyu's shoulder in embarrassment. He immediately wrapped his arm around you to make you more comfortable. Wonwoo saw this and smiled before paying attention to the story again.

"It was tiny, Y/N. Give us a break." Joshua rolled his eyes playfully.

"It touched me!"

"Its foot touched you." Wonwoo corrected as he chewed on some bulgogi.

"WONWOO!" You said in frustration, making everyone laugh again. Mingyu gave a small smile, but the fact that Wonwoo remembered little things about you just gnawed at him.

The universe was against him.

One story somehow turned into another. Then another after that. Suddenly, everyone was talking over each other, throwing memories across the table.

Mingyu wanted to yell. "I'M RIGHT HERE!!", Mingyu internally yelled.

"Wonwoo was so crazy because he actually JUMPED into the lake because Y/N lost her Pandora bracelet for some reason." Joshua chuckled.

Wonwoo wasn't stupid. He knew Joshua didn't mean any harm; he always liked telling stories from the past. However, Wonwoo knew things were different now because you now had Mingyu. He could sense that Mingyu was feeling out of place, and he could sense that Mingyu felt something.

They were best friends, after all. At least Wonwoo still thought of him as a best friend.

"Hyung, stop," Wonwoo sighed. "We get it now."

"He literally DOVE IN!" Joshua ignored him.

"She cried for an hour," Wonwoo said. "It broke me because I didn't like seeing her cry, so I swam for it."

Mingyu knew he looked ridiculous with his tight-lipped smile, and he knew he was about to sound ridiculous if he asked questions, but he felt like an ass for not contributing to the conversation, and he would also like to politely let everyone know that he was still present.

"Did you find it?" Mingyu asked in a hushed voice, but everyone was too busy laughing. He cleared his throat and asked a little louder, "Did you find it?"

Everyone stopped laughing. Joshua glanced at Mingyu, and his eyes widened a little. He completely forgot about Mingyu.

Wonwoo smiled politely and nodded, "I did. Good thing it was perched on top of a rock, so I had no problem grabbing it. It just took me a while to find it."

"That's good." Mingyu hoped and prayed that his tone was light. He didn't want your families to think that he was being a dick. Mingyu reached for the spicy chicken, and Wonwoo quickly stopped him.

"Don't get that one," Wonwoo said as he placed a different kind of chicken on Mingyu's plate.

"Hm?" Mingyu blinked. Was he not allowed to eat that specific kind of chicken?

"It's too spicy. You can't have food that's too spicy." Wonwoo pointed out, "You complained about your stomach acid for two days, remember? Coach had to make you sit on the bench for the game."

Mingyu couldn't function after that.

"Aigoo, Wonwoo-ya is so thoughtful and sweet." Your mother cooed.

Just like that, everyone started talking again. Mingyu just stopped working. He didn't know why Wonwoo would remember such a detail.

"Baby?" You nudged him gently. Mingyu turned to look at you, but you were already staring.

You were worried about him. Again.

'Fuck, I hate myself.' Mingyu thought.

"Where'd you go, hm?" You asked in a hushed voice. "You keep zoning out. What's wrong?"

"I'm just very," Mingyu inhaled sharply, "...very embarrassed that Wonwoo hyung would remember a detail like that."

You let out a sigh of relief, "Well, that's Wonwoo for you. He's very caring and very thoughtful."

"Mingyu-ya, please eat some more. I don't want your eomma to think we're not feeding you." Your mother said sweetly to Mingyu.

"Ah—yes. Thank you, eomoni." He picked up his chopsticks almost immediately, eyes dropping to his plate. Across from him, conversation had already started flowing again. Joshua was laughing over something Wonwoo's younger brother said. Your mom was asking Wonwoo something about college. Wonwoo was piling more food into people's bowls despite protests.

Everything was normal. So normal that Mingyu wondered if he was the only person sitting at the table having a terrible time. Beside him, you leaned against his shoulder lightly.

"Eat properly," you whispered.

There it was again, that softness, that warmth, that care. Mingyu glanced sideways, and his eyes softened. You looked completely relaxed beside him.

No hesitation. No distance. No uncertainty. Just you. His girlfriend, looking at him like you always did. Suddenly, guilt crawled up his throat because while you sat beside him as if this were the easiest thing in the world, Mingyu wondered if loving you was enough when there were parts of you he could never touch—years and memories and history that would always belong to someone else.

And for the first time that night, a thought crossed his mind that made his chest tighten.

What if you were never really his to keep?

CHAPTER 3: JOSHUA HONG IS ACCIDENTALLY EVIL

Dinner slowly dissolved, as family dinners always did. No one ever announced the end of it. It just happened naturally. Chairs shifted back. Empty glasses piled together as conversations split into smaller ones.

The adults migrated to the living room for what Mingyu had come to recognize as parent talk: long conversations that somehow lasted over an hour. They even have a glass of wine each.

Wonwoo's younger brother disappeared down the hallway almost immediately, muttering something about showering first before tonight's swim.

Mingyu knew you mentioned it before coming to the beach resort. He didn't expect all of you to like swimming so much. Obviously, he wouldn't get it. He was never there. Of course, there was a late-night swim. That was tradition too.

You had already disappeared upstairs a few minutes ago to change, yelling something over your shoulder about meeting everyone at the pool in twenty minutes. And just like that, everyone naturally fell into place.

Joshua stood up first, then Wonwoo. No words exchanged. No discussion. Just movement. Joshua gathered plates, and Wonwoo collected glasses. Easy. Practiced. Well, they've done this a hundred times before.

Mingyu stared for a second too long before immediately standing, too. Helping felt normal. Helping felt useful. Helping felt like maybe, just maybe, he could stop feeling like a guest.

"Hyung, let me help," Mingyu said with a bit of enthusiasm. He smiled anyway. Lately, pretending had become easier than explaining.

Mingyu grabbed a few of the bigger plates and stacked them together as he trailed behind Joshua and Wonwoo, who were laughing about something. Mingyu jogged a little to catch up, but the plates shook, catching the attention of Joshua. He stopped walking, turned around, looked at the plates, and looked at Mingyu.

"Careful. I bought those plates from Beijing." Joshua stated. "Don't be clumsy."

Wonwoo was looking at him too, but turned around when Joshua turned around. They continued to walk to the kitchen, and Mingyu just stood there. He felt stupid.

Still, he pushed through because he loves you and he wants to stay in your life.

Joshua was washing the plates, and Wonwoo was drying them and putting them on one side. Mingyu carefully placed the expensive plates from Beijing in the sink as Joshua continued to wash them with ease.

Not knowing what else to do, Mingyu moved to Wonwoo's side and grabbed a few plates to put back. Joshua noticed this through his peripheral vision and said, "Ah, leave that. Wonwoo knows where everything goes."

Mingyu froze. His hand tightened slightly around the plate, "Oh."

That was all he said. Just one word. He knew Joshua didn't mean anything by it. A small, rational part of him knew that Joshua was being normal. Joshua didn't mean any harm because it was a fact: Wonwoo knew where things went. Wonwoo had been coming over since he was a kid. Longer than that, most likely. Wonwoo knew everything. It all made sense.

However, a huge part of Mingyu was hurt. Suddenly, Mingyu felt like he was seventeen again: very awkward, poor skin, dehydrated, and socially inept.

Back then, he used to stand near the basketball court with his backpack hanging awkwardly off one shoulder while everyone else laughed like they'd known each other forever. Then Wonwoo had walked over, handed him a spare jersey, and asked: "You wanna join us?"

And just like that, Mingyu had stopped feeling like an outsider. Until now.

Before Mingyu could think too hard about it, Wonwoo moved beside him and gently took the plates from his hands. Then held out a dish towel. "Dry the plates instead," Wonwoo muttered. His voice was quiet, casual. Like it wasn't a big deal, like Mingyu belonged beside him naturally. And somehow, that hurt too.

The kitchen settled into a rhythm after that. Water running, plates clinking. Joshua washing, Mingyu drying, and Wonwoo putting things back where they belonged. No one said much at first. Then, Joshua suddenly laughed. Not loudly, just to himself.

Wonwoo looked over immediately, "What?"

"Nothing." Joshua shook his head, stifling a laugh. Then, a pause. "Okay, remember that one summer..."

"Hyung," Wonwoo groaned.

Joshua grinned.

While he didn't know much about Joshua, Mingyu knew the grin he made. He knew it well. It was the type of grin nerds like him knew all too well, for it was the kind of grin bullies made before they teased someone.

From your stories, Mingyu knew Joshua wasn't a bully. He'd never hurt a fly, but Joshua Hong looked like he was about to bully him.

Joshua looked at Wonwoo and said, "Remember when Y/N insisted on helping us for dinner?"

Wonwoo looked tired. 'Joshua hyung seems to remember a lot of things tonight.' Mingyu thought.

"No," Wonwoo answered, hoping Joshua would drop it.

He didn't.

"You absolutely do." Joshua stared.

"No."

Joshua pursed his lips and dramatically turned to Mingyu, "She dropped an entire bowl of Caesar salad."

Wonwoo sighed like a man accepting defeat.

"The salad went everywhere!" Joshua exclaimed, wide-eyed, before laughing uncontrollably.

Wonwoo looked exhausted. Joshua wheezed beside him. Mingyu smiled politely, still drying plates like he wasn't mentally taking psychic damage.

"Y/N cried because she thought she ruined dinner."

Mingyu glanced up, "She cried?"

"She's always been a crier," Joshua said.

"To be fair, she thought your mom was going to get mad." Wonwoo shrugged. Mingyu noted the subtle defense.

Joshua wiped his tears from laughing, "And then Wonwoo spent twenty minutes convincing her she wasn't in trouble."

Mingyu slowly looks back down at the plate in his hand. Of course. Of course, Wonwoo comforted you.

The conversation shifted again. Joshua was still laughing to himself as he dried his hands. Mingyu quietly focused on wiping down the remaining plates.

"Y/N-ah?" Your mother's voice carried through the house from the living room. "Actually—Wonwoo-ya?"

Without stopping or looking up from his tasks, Wonwoo answered, "Ne?"

"Where's the other bottle of wine?"

Mingyu glanced over automatically. Wonwoo didn't. Actually, he didn't pause or think. Wonwoo simply dried his hands, walked out of the kitchen, and disappeared around the corner. Then he came back holding another bottle.

"It was in the cabinet beside the refrigerator," Wonwoo answered as he placed it gently on the coffee table before returning to his spot.

Joshua didn't react, not even a little bit. In fact, nobody in that moment found it strange that Wonwoo knew where wine was stored in a house that wasn't his.

"Joshua-yah!" Your mother called out.

Joshua looked up, "Hm?"

"Can you get my glasses upstairs, please?"

Before Joshua could answer, Wonwoo casually interrupted, "They're on the side table drawer beside the couch."

Joshua immediately nodded and walked out. No hesitation at all. No "how do you know that?". Nothing. Nada.

Apparently, everyone had accepted that Jeon Wonwoo simply knew things. Mingyu blinked. When Joshua returned, he casually wiped the dining table clean.

A minute later.

"Wonwoo-yah!" His father called out. "Did we bring the card deck?"

Wonwoo pointed toward a drawer without even turning around, "It's in the second drawer beside the TV."

"Found it! Thank you!"

Wonwoo hummed in reply. Mingyu was bewildered. He stared, actually stared. At this point, he was starting to wonder if Wonwoo had blueprints of the house memorized somewhere.

Joshua looked over and snorted, "Ah."

Mingyu slowly turned, and Joshua grinned again. The same 'bully grin' from earlier.

"Scary, right?"

Mingyu blinked. "...Hyung?"

Joshua nodded towards Wonwoo as he wrung the little towel he used to wipe the table with on the sink. "That."

Mingyu looked over, and Wonwoo was putting away cups now. He moved around the kitchen like muscle memory had taken over.

"He's been like that forever," Joshua snorted. Mingyu stayed quiet, then Joshua laughed quietly, "Honestly, I think Wonwoo knows this house better than I do."

Mingyu laughed. Small, automatic. It was probably a joke. Joshua thought for a second and nodded to himself, "Actually... No, I think he genuinely might."

Radio silence.

Wonwoo didn't deny anything. He didn't react either. He just continued putting away cups and plates. Both Joshua and Mingyu stared at him.

"I mean, he practically grew up here." Joshua shrugged.

Oh. Mingyu felt like he was about to collapse. He glanced at Joshua, who was busy wiping the table again, and looked down. He didn't know if he could stay in the kitchen any longer. He didn't want to be trapped with your brother and your hot-and-dependent-all-around-ex-boyfriend.

"I'll, uh, I'll go check on Y/N." Mingyu said before leaving the kitchen.

"Don't forget about our swim night!" Wonwoo called out.

"Of course, he'd remind me. Ugh, what's wrong with me?" Mingyu asked himself as he walked up the stairs to your shared room for this vacation.

In truth, he wasn't up for swimming anymore. However, he didn't want to bring down the mood, and he certainly wanted to make a good impression on everyone. With a heavy sigh, he smiled to himself before knocking and entering your room.

CHAPTER 4: FORGIVE ME, FOR I HAVE SINNED

Mingyu rarely prayed. However, since meeting you, he'd come to realize that your family's the religious type. Not the judgmental kind. Not the kind that quoted Bible verses every five minutes or acted like they were better than everyone else. You'd all go to church every Sunday, and you and Joshua would join Catholic Outreach Programs every two months. He also took note that your family loved to donate often—not because anyone asked, but because helping people seemed as natural to you as breathing. You had mentioned before that you and Joshua were raised to do Christ-like things.

In truth, Mingyu noticed it all. He noticed a lot of things about you. So, he started praying too. At first, he wasn't serious because he didn't want to fake things like that. Besides, he wasn't sure if he believed it all. Sometimes he'd stay over at your dorm and find your Bible sitting on your desk with little sticky notes peeking out from the pages. You'd underline passages and tell him your favorite verses. Sometimes you'd drag him to church and hold his hand during prayer.

So he got curious... then intrigued.

-

It was a perfect, sunny afternoon when Mingyu arrived at your dorm. He had been planning a cute date after finals, and you were finally free that day. He knocked on your door, and you quickly opened it before running back. Mingyu was confused.

He entered your dorm and saw all your clothes scattered everywhere. His jaw was wide open as you looked through your dresses, muttering something about wearing your new white dress on Sunday when you go to church with your mom and Joshua.

"Um... did you need more time, baby?" Mingyu asked, making himself comfortable on your bed.

You looked at him with a sweet smile and said, "This will be quick, but can you help me pick a dress?"

"You can wear a trash bag, and I'd love it, and I'd think you'd be so chic. Wear whatever you want, baby." Mingyu smiled.

"I know, but I want it to be perfect. You've been planning this for a while now. Just help me: the pink dress or the yellow dress?" You held up the dresses in question for Mingyu to see. He began to genuinely, thoroughly think about it.

"Hm, I like both of them, but the pink one looks a bit uncomfortable. It's more of a party dress than a date dress. Wear the yellow one." Mingyu said softly.

You sighed in relief, tossing the pink one somewhere, "You're a lifesaver. I'll go get ready in the bathroom!"

"Take your time." Mingyu smiled as he watched you enter the bathroom. He quickly looked around your dorm and began to clean up. Granted, he still had to figure things out, but he was able to clean up quickly. Checking the time on his watch, he figured he should lie down and scroll through his phone.

Reaching for his phone, Mingyu unlocked it and began to scroll through Instagram.

Like.

Like.

Comment.

Like.

Then his phone died. Mingyu groaned in annoyance. He knew you weren't even halfway done. Rubbing his face with his hands, he charged his phone on your bedside table.

Bored out of his mind, Mingyu sprawled out across your bed, just waiting. He was bored. Then, he noticed your Bible sitting on your desk. Mingyu had stared at it for a second, then he stared longer.

"For someone who claimed she wasn't forcing religion onto people, Y/N sure has a lot of tabs sticking out of that thing," Mingyu quietly said to himself, propping up on his elbows to see it better.

Tiny sticky notes peeked out from pages. Some corners were folded. There were little highlights and underlines everywhere. You'd clearly read it a lot.

Naturally, Mingyu did what any curious boyfriend would do. He sat up, crawled onto your bed, reached for the Bible, and opened it on a random page, a random verse.

Mingyu leaned on your headboard and muttered, "Hm.. let's see here. It says 'Genesis' on top. Is the title of the chapter, 'Genesis'? Why are there tiny numbers on each sentence? This is confusing."

Mingyu's eyes scanned each word, each sentence, until he was fully into it. His eyes moved quickly, and he flipped the page with intrigue. Five minutes later, the bathroom door opened.

"Baby, I'm—" You stopped.

First of all, your clothes were now in your closet. Secondly, the floor was clean. Lastly, Mingyu was no longer lying down. He was sitting upright against your headboard. Rigid. Wide-eyed. Holding your Bible with both hands, staring at you. No greeting. No 'wow, you look pretty as always'. Nothing. Then he spoke.

"Oh, my god," Mingyu said, still in shock.

You blinked, "...Hello?"

Mingyu looked genuinely distressed. Like, actually distressed. "What do you MEAN God flooded everything?!"

"Mingyu, honey... what?"

He pointed aggressively at the page, "It says so right here!" Mingyu scanned the page until he found what he was looking for, "Here, listen: 'I am going to bring floodwaters on the earth to destroy all life under the heavens, every creature that has the breath of life in it. Everything on earth will perish.' What the hell? Also, only ONE guy built the ark?! That's not realistic!"

You could only stare at him. Mingyu stared back, "And why are there SO MANY animals?! Did he live on a farm? It didn't say anything, but holy shit— I mean, sorry. Not supposed to say that while holding this Bible, but oh my god??"

Then, you burst into laughter. You had actual tears in your eyes, and Mingyu looked offended immediately.

"Why are you laughing?!" Mingyu screeched.

"Baby... are you reading Noah's Ark?" You laughed as you walked over to your mirror and fixed your earrings.

Mingyu sat there, clutching your Bible like he'd uncovered classified government information, "You're telling me this actually happened?!"

You looked at him through the mirror and slowly turned around, then smiled dangerously. Mingyu narrowed his eyes immediately. He knew that smile. You walked over and gently held his face, "Baby."

Mingyu stared at you.

"A whale swallowed Jonah."

Mingyu was silent. He blinked a few times as his face slowly contorted into confusion, "A WHAT swallowed WHO?"

You folded instantly, bent over laughing. Mingyu looked horrified as he looked at your current form.

"Why are you saying it so casually?!"

You couldn't even answer. You were wheezing. Mingyu looked at the Bible, then back at you, and then back at the Bible.

"You're telling me, there's MORE?" Mingyu was in disbelief. Now, he genuinely wondered what your family does at church every Sunday. Did you read more unhinged stories? Do you all laugh at the stories of these unfortunate characters in the Bible? He didn't know. He's not sure if he wanted to.

You kissed his cheek, "Baby, there are plagues too. Oh! I almost forgot. There's also leprosy."

"Leprosy? What's that?"

You ignored his question. You wanted him to figure it out on his own. It was more fun that way. "Also, Jesus has a close friend named Lazarus."

"Okay? Um, good for Jesus for having a close friend."

"Lazarus died."

"Oh, I'm sorry. That must have—"

"Jesus brought him back to life."

"Jesus did WHAT?"

"Jesus bestied so hard, he brought Lazarus back to life." You chuckled, amused by his reactions. Gosh, you loved your boyfriend so much.

Mingyu slowly closed the Bible, placed it back on your desk, stood up, and grabbed his car keys. "You know what? Let's just go, babe. I need some time away from... that. No offense." Mingyu said.

"None taken." You laughed.

The two of you left your dorm, locking the door behind you. You walked side by side down the hallway, then Mingyu stopped walking. You blinked and turned around. He was staring at you.

"...What kind of church do you people GO TO?"

You gasped dramatically, "Kim Mingyu!"

"No, no, seriously!" He pointed between you and your dorm door. "Every five minutes you're introducing a new problem!"

"Mingyu!"

"First floods, then whales, then DISEASES—"

"MINGYU!"

"And now people are coming back to LIFE?!"

You were practically wheezing now, clinging to his arm while he looked genuinely betrayed. Then he looked at you, really looked at you. He looked at the way your eyes had disappeared from laughing too hard, the way you leaned on him for support, and the tears gathering at the corners of your eyes.

And despite the Biblical crisis, his confusion, the absolute betrayal, Mingyu started laughing too. You looked happy, and Mingyu had always been a little helpless when it came to you.

If it was true that God created everything—if He made people meet and paths cross and things happen for reasons beyond understanding, then Mingyu was really, really thankful He made you.

And somehow, even more thankful that He gave you to him.

-

Back then, loving you felt easy. Of course, relationships weren't easy, at least not completely. You were insanely stubborn. Mingyu was overly dramatic. You fought over stupid things and made up just as quickly.

But loving you? That part had always been easy. Every time Mingyu looked at you, you never questioned it. He never had to wonder where he stood. He never had to wonder if he belonged beside you.

Tonight felt different.

He was supposed to be getting ready for tonight's swimming, but he was too busy staring at the night sky outside the resort, hands shoved deep into the pockets of his hoodie. The pool lights reflected softly against the water nearby. Somewhere outside, he could hear laughter. Familiar voices. Yours. Joshua's. Wonwoo's.

Tradition again. Always tradition.

Mingyu swallowed. Lately, he had started noticing something ugly about himself. Every memory, every story, every room, every conversation, somehow led back to Wonwoo.

Mingyu hated that he noticed. He hated it even more because part of him wondered if God was punishing him for something.

For falling in love with you. For dating you. For loving someone that had belonged to someone else first.

"God, did You really give her to me at all?" Mingyu chuckled to himself bitterly. "Or am I just keeping the seat warm until Wonwoo hyung comes back again?"

CHAPTER 5: JOSHUA HONG TALKS A LOT, NO?

The pool is quieter now. Everyone else is still around, but the energy softened. The late-night tradition was settling into something slower. Mingyu had left you by the pool because he was tired and wanted to shower. You didn't mind.

Now, you were just in the pool. Not really swimming, but you just stood there, rested your arms on the ledge, and looked at the view. Being the nosy older brother that he is, Joshua noticed you first. He swam to you and stayed beside you. Both of you were silent for a while.

"You're thinking too loud," he said casually.

You glanced at him and blinked, "That's not a thing."

"It is when you're my sister." He looked at you. "You can lie to mom, but you can't lie to me."

You looked away, and he sighed, putting a hand on your shoulder, "Did he say something to you? I'm not scared to kick him out of this trip. Just tell me. Did he make you uncomfortable? Did he force you to do something you didn't want to do? He's way taller than me, but I can strangle him."

"It's not that," you sighed.

"Throw me a bone here, Y/N! I'm not a mind reader. I'm just a very concerned older brother because you've never been like this before. Not even when you were with Wonwoo. So, tell me. What's wrong?" Joshua pushed your hair back gently.

"He's been weird all day. He keeps zoning out. Like, he's here, but he's not here. He's physically here, but he's mentally checked out. I keep asking him what's wrong, but I know he's lying. I just didn't want to confront him on the spot because he could be overwhelmed." You confessed.

"Overwhelmed?" Joshua's brows knitted in confusion.

"Well, if I were him, I'd be overwhelmed too. Imagine being invited on a two-week vacation at a beach resort with people you barely know." You pointed out.

"He knows you and Wonwoo."

"Yes, but that's not the point." You sighed, looking at your hands and glanced up at him, "He just... he kept looking like he didn't belong here. He kept looking at us like he was looking at a men's Dior winter coat through the glass."

"An outsider always looking in," Joshua concluded with a nod. "Yeah, I noticed."

"You did?" You frowned. "Why didn't you tell me?"

"Sweetheart, I told you before, and I'll say it again: if you're having a conflict within the relationship, never bring in other people who could poison your mind. I don't know much about Mingyu, so it'd be unfair of me to just jump right into conclusions without getting to know him first. It'd also be unfair to you because I meddled with something that doesn't concern me. YOU are my concern, not your relationship." Joshua said softly.

"Your relationship concerns should only be between you and Mingyu. Only come to us if your relationship's problem involves us. Right now, it's just you and him." He added.

"What do you think of him?" You asked.

He looked at you with pursed lips, "In my honest opinion?"

"Yes."

"I think Mingyu is trying too hard to fit in. I appreciate his efforts, but it's just painful to watch. He looks like a kicked puppy. He's been trying hard all day. Then he spirals by himself. Always comparing, always thinking too much. As your brother, it makes me kind of annoyed because you're right there, and he's not even paying much attention to you because of his insecurities." Joshua ranted as you nodded slowly.

Joshua looked at you and sighed, shoulders dropping, "I think he's losing to someone who isn't even competing, sweetheart."

He pulled you in for a tight hug, which you reciprocated. "All of you should talk." He mumbled before pulling away. He held you in arm's reach, looking at your disheartened expression.

"But you should talk to him first.... before he talks to Wonwoo."

Just as Joshua was about to swim away and leave the pool, he paused and turned around to face you, "He likes you a lot, you know. Like... a lot, a lot."

"You think so?"

"Y/N, if he's willing to come out here with your family and your ex's family for two weeks, all because of a tradition that started way back when, he's totally committed to you all the way." Joshua smiled.

"Good night, Y/N. Love you."

"Love you too, Shua. Good night."

When he left the pool area, you sighed to yourself and got out of the pool too. You grabbed your towel and dried yourself before going up to your room and shower. When you arrived, Mingyu was already asleep. You gave him a kiss on his forehead and went straight to your bathroom to shower.

When you closed the door, Mingyu's eyes opened a bit before smiling a small smile and drifting back to sleep.

Morning came too easily. The resort was already awake by the time Mingyu was. Sunlight spilled across the curtains in uneven stripes, warm but forgiving. Somewhere outside, waves broke against the shore like nothing had ever been wrong.

Mingyu sat still for a while before moving. He didn't feel well-rested. He didn't feel worse either. He felt... empty.

Like something had changed, and he hadn't caught up to it yet. When he finally stepped out, Joshua was already there. Waiting—not literally. Joshua never “waited” for people. He just happened to be present at the exact moment they needed him. He glanced at Mingyu once, briefly.

Mingyu bowed, "Good morning."

Joshua waved him off and politely greeted him as well. He gestured for Mingyu to sit on the chair next to him, and Mingyu nervously did so.

"This is a really beautiful place. Thanks for inviting me." Mingyu said softly.

"No problem," Joshua said.

"This house is beautiful, too. I'm sure it must've cost a fortune to rent it out for two weeks." Mingyu mentioned, leaning back on the chair.

Now, Joshua swore he's not one of those people, but he slightly took offense. "We own this house, Mingyu." Joshua corrected.

Mingyu was embarrassed. "I'm so-"

"It's okay," Joshua gave him a polite smile, "You didn't know."

Then there was silence. It wasn't awkward, and it wasn't bad. It was just... silent.

"So, um, how are you?" Mingyu asked awkwardly. He wanted to have a decent relationship with Joshua. He wasn't asking for a close relationship like Joshua's relationship with Wonwoo. Mingyu just wanted to have a normal relationship with Joshua, normal enough to know that you can leave him alone with Joshua.

Joshua looked at him and nodded, "I'm good. How are you?"

"I'm good, too," Mingyu replied.

Using this as an opening, Joshua fully turned his body to face Mingyu. "No, you're not." Joshua countered.

"What—"

"Let's talk." Joshua said, "Properly, this time."

"Um, alright." Mingyu was confused, but he kind of felt that Joshua knew something. Especially when Joshua asked if he was okay at the beach yesterday. Mingyu could only gulp nervously.

Joshua, being the professional and polite guy that he was, thought of proper words to direct his points. Eventually, he settled for something simple. "You've been tense since yesterday. Have we done something to make you feel this way?" Joshua asked, keeping his tone light.

Mingyu's eyes widened. He absolutely DID NOT want your family to think they made him uncomfortable. Mingyu shook his head, "No, of course not."

"It's Wonwoo, isn't it?" Joshua stated.

"N-No..."

"Don't lie to me, Mingyu. You kept looking at Wonwoo before you looked at my sister." Joshua huffed, "One might think it's Wonwoo you're dating."

"It's not what it-"

"Oh, I know it's not what it looks like." Joshua cut him off. "I just want you to be honest about your feelings. I know you're bothered."

"I'm just..." Mingyu stuttered, "It's not a big deal, hyung. I was just... overwhelmed. Yeah, I was overwhelmed."

"Bullshit." Joshua was deadpanned. He stared at Mingyu and sighed as he leaned back against his chair, rubbing his face tiredly.

"Mingyu," he said more softly, "I've known Wonwoo almost my entire life. I know the way people act around him."

Mingyu nodded as Joshua spoke.

"I get it. Wonwoo's a catch. He's a gentleman, he's soft spoken, very kind, very level-headed, and very loyal." Joshua added.

Mingyu stayed silent, poking his tongue through his cheek.

"And I know what insecurity looks like, too," Joshua stated, eyes focused on Mingyu. "Look at me when I'm speaking to you, please."

Mingyu looked at Joshua slowly, feeling slightly scared. Joshua sensed his fear and sighed.

"You think everyone's comparing you to him," Joshua continued. "You think every story about him is secretly a reminder that you're not him."

Mingyu's jaw tightened.

"No one is doing that to you except yourself, Mingyu-yah," Joshua said, matter-of-factly. Mingyu frowned. He didn't know whether he should be offended.

Joshua gave him a small smile, "Mingyu, you're a catch, too. Heck, so am I, but that's not the point."

"Then what is the point?" Mingyu sulked, making Joshua chuckle lightly.

"The point is," Joshua shifted in his seat to make himself more comfortable, "you were too busy looking and analyzing Wonwoo, that you failed to notice my sister. You were too busy thinking about Wonwoo being the 'perfect' boyfriend to my sister that you didn't even allow us to get to know you."

Mingyu's gaze softened, "Y-You wanted to get to know me?"

"Of course!" Joshua chuckled, "You're my sister's boyfriend. Of course, we want to get to know you. Mom and I were skeptical, but Wonwoo vouched for you, you know? He was very persuasive; he said you were good at everything."

"I bet you were disappointed, huh?"

"A bit," Joshua admitted. "Wonwoo told me to give you a chance. As for mom, she's just really nice, and she saw how happy Y/N is, so that's enough for her."

Mingyu laughed once, but there was nothing happy about it.

"I know I'm being insane." He rubbed his face harshly. "I know she's right there, and I know she loves me, but sometimes…" He swallowed hard.

Joshua watched him carefully, "Sometimes what?"

"Never mind," Mingyu shook his head and looked away.

"Spit it out, Gyu. The Bible said that the truth will set you free," Joshua said, "and don't look away when we're speaking. Please look at me, it's very rude not to."

Mingyu looked at him, "Sometimes, I see him in the back of my mind." Mingyu confessed. "Then I ask myself if she sees him too whenever she looks at me."

Joshua stayed silent as he nodded, beginning to understand where Mingyu was coming from.

"And sometimes I wonder if she wishes she were holding him instead of me," Mingyu admitted.

"So now the truth comes out." Joshua chuckled. "Thank you for telling the truth."

Mingyu felt some weight being lifted off his shoulders. Joshua nodded slowly.

"Wonwoo was right," Joshua murmured. Mingyu stiffened, staring at Joshua.

"…What do you mean?" Mingyu asked quietly.

Joshua glanced at him, "When Wonwoo found out you and Y/N were dating, he told me something."

Mingyu's heart dropped. Joshua leaned back slightly against his chair.

"He said you were going to keep comparing yourself to him." Joshua chuckled lightly. "Said you'd probably drive yourself insane eventually."

"Oh... he did?"

"Mhm," Joshua nodded. "Then he called me out for saying things about you because frankly, I had said some... unpleasant things about you at the beach yesterday. I said that you weren't Wonwoo and that you could never reach the standard he set."

Mingyu could feel himself panicking, but Joshua reached out and touched his arm. Joshua smiled, "But Wonwoo was right. You're not Wonwoo, you're Mingyu. You love her differently, but it works. You'll set your own standard, and because Y/N is so happy, I'd like to think that you're doing a pretty good job."

Mingyu unintentionally gave Joshua puppy eyes.

"I think what you're feeling is normal," Joshua admitted. "Honestly, if I were in your position, I'd probably feel weird too."

Mingyu sighed in relief. He genuinely thought he was going insane.

"But the difference is," Joshua continued as he slowly moved his hand away from Mingyu's arm, "I'd talk to him instead of suffering in silence."

There was a pause.

"He was your best friend first, no?"

Mingyu swallowed hard.

"He's probably wondering why you're pulling away from him, too."

Mingyu sighed. Joshua was right. He was too blinded by everything he was feeling that he failed to live in the moment. He was too worried about being the "next Wonwoo," but he had absolutely nothing to be worried about because you loved him anyway.

"You should talk to my sister, too. She opened up to me last night, you know." Joshua casually mentioned. "But I won't meddle about that. Besides, your relationship isn't my concern, Y/N is. Treat her right and we'll be just fine, Mingyu."

"Does she hate me?" Mingyu asked in a small voice.

"She could never hate you, Gyu. Y/N's in love. It's so obvious. She's practically glowing and healthy. I honestly love that for her." Joshua confessed.

"You think so?"

"I know so. Now, go." Joshua shooed him away, "Take her out. Let her tour you around. She's been wanting to do that since we invited you. Talk to her then, talk to Wonwoo."

"I will." Mingyu stood up, "Thanks, hyung."

"Don't mention it." Joshua shrugged. "Oh, and Gyu?"

"Hm?"

"Welcome to the family."

CHAPTER 6: "I WAS LOOKING AT HIM, THINKING I COULD NEVER BE LIKE THAT" ... "BUT IT'S YOU WHO I WANT, AND I WISH YOU COULD SEE THAT"

Joshua sat in comfortable silence, gazing at the early morning view in front of them. The sound of the ocean, soft chatters of people in the area, and a few dogs barking in the distance were the only sounds present. Sending Mingyu off to look for you was the best decision he's ever made today.

Knowing you, you'd be walking by the beach. You always loved walking by the beach so early in the morning. Joshua chuckled to himself as he thought of you walking by the beach with some "aesthetic song" playing in your mind. To add, Joshua guessed that it's most likely 'Mariners Apartment Complex' by Lana Del Rey.

The door opened, and Joshua glanced up to see Wonwoo with two cups of coffee. "Figured you haven't had coffee yet," Wonwoo said, handing one of the cups to Joshua and sitting on the seat where Mingyu sat.

'How ironic,' Joshua thought.

Sensing something weird, Wonwoo looked at him and asked, "What's on your mind?"

Joshua shrugged, taking a sip of his coffee, "Nothing. It's just.. ironic."

"What's so ironic?"

"Well," Joshua started, a small, amused smile forming on his lips, "it's just that Mingyu is currently in your seat."

"Oh, hyung." Wonwoo sighed, "We've been over this-"

"Now, you're on his." Joshua nodded towards the chair Wonwoo currently occupied.

"I don't get it."

Joshua laughed, "It's just so funny. Mingyu sat there earlier. We had a talk. It was nice. Now, you're sitting in his seat."

Wonwoo playfully rolled his eyes, "Ha ha, very funny. Is that how old guys joke?"

"I'm not THAT old!"

Now, it was Wonwoo's turn to laugh.

-

"You lose your way, just take my hand. You're lost at sea, then I'll command your boat to me again," You sang quietly to yourself.

'Mariners Apartment Complex' was always your go-to song if you wanted to have a moment to yourself. It makes you feel like the main character in a book you never seem to finish reading. Well, you kind of are. After all, your story isn't finished yet.

"Don't go too far, right where you are, that's where I am," You continued.

"I'm your man," a familiar voice finished for you. You turned your head and smiled when you saw Mingyu. Immediately, you cling to his arm, earning a chuckle from him.

"You look very beautiful, honey," Mingyu greeted sweetly, kissing the top of your head. "How's your morning so far?"

"It's great now that you're here," You smiled sincerely. "Did you sleep well last night? I know yesterday must've been overwhelming for you. It was your first day, after all. I'm sorry if I didn't check on you enough."

"Don't apologize, baby," Mingyu replied. "I slept well, thank you. Yes, I was overwhelmed, but I think I managed."

You stopped walking and pulled back slightly to get a good look at him. Mingyu looked at you, too. As he really looked at you, he began to feel a little ache in his chest. He missed you.

"You know," you started, "I really missed you yesterday. You were... kind of zoning in and out."

Mingyu sighed, "I know. I'm sorry, honey."

"Penny for your thought?" You looked at him with a small smile. Mingyu thought you were so cute.

"We should sit down for this," Mingyu said.

Sitting on the sand with you between Mingyu's legs with his arms wrapped around you, you began to relax and lean back on his chest. Mingyu felt relaxed, too, but he grew nervous about what he was about to tell you.

Unfortunately for him, you noticed immediately.

"You keep doing that," you murmured softly.

"Hm?"

"Thinking too hard." You leaned your head back slightly against his shoulder. "Your eyebrows scrunch together every time, and you're always so quiet."

Mingyu laughed quietly through his nose, "Sorry."

"You don't have to apologize for thinking."

"No," he sighed, tightening his arms around you a little. "But maybe I should apologize for the things I've been thinking about."

That caught your attention. What he said confirmed your thoughts. He was bothered and distracted about something. You slowly turned your head to look at him properly. Mingyu avoided your eyes at first, staring out at the ocean instead.

"Mingyu."

He gulped.

"I think..." He paused, trying to organize his thoughts. "I think I got so stuck in my own head that I forgot how to just be with you."

Your expression softened instantly. "You never have to try so hard around me," you whispered.

"I know that now." Mingyu laughed weakly. "Joshua hyung yelled at me this morning."

That made you snort.

"He did not yell at you. He could never yell, no matter how mad he is."

"Well, he spiritually yelled at me."

You laughed softly, and Mingyu felt his chest ache again because there it was—that sound he missed. That warmth. You.

"I've been weird," he admitted quietly. "And unfair."

"You've been overwhelmed," you corrected gently.

Mingyu shook his head. "No. Overwhelmed is part of it, but..." He exhaled slowly. "I think this started way before this trip."

You frowned slightly. "What do you mean?"

Mingyu stared quietly at the waves. Then, he laughed once to himself. "I don't think I ever told you this before."

There was a pause.

"I remember when you and Wonwoo hyung broke up."

You froze slightly in his arms. Mingyu noticed immediately. Rubbing your arms up and down, he quickly said, "I'm not bringing it up to hurt you. I just... I think that's the first time I realized how much space you took up in people's lives."

You stayed quiet, listening carefully.

Mingyu lowered his gaze to the sand.

"It was a few days before his graduation," he murmured softly. "And suddenly, you just weren't there anymore."

Suddenly, Mingyu was seventeen again.

It was a few days before Wonwoo's high school graduation when Mingyu noticed it. No, he didn't notice the breakup itself. He didn't bother learning about Wonwoo's relationship status. However, he did take note of your absence.

At first, he didn't think much about it. He was seventeen and oblivious, after all. He was more concerned about basketball practice, schoolwork, and whether or not he could convince Wonwoo to go eat after school. Eventually, Mingyu noticed something felt off. He realized you weren't around anymore.

Normally, you'd wait outside Wonwoo's classroom after school. Sometimes, you'd sit with them during lunch. Other times, you'd quietly do homework beside Wonwoo while Mingyu complained dramatically about his life.

You were just... there... every day. You were always clinging to Wonwoo like there's no tomorrow. Then suddenly, you weren't.

Mingyu remembered standing beside Wonwoo near the school gates while students flooded past them. "Y/N's not coming?" Mingyu asked casually.

Wonwoo didn't answer immediately. He just adjusted the strap of his bag and kept walking.

Mingyu blinked and quickly followed after him. "Did you guys fight?"

Still no response from Wonwoo. Now Mingyu was confused. Usually, Wonwoo answered him immediately, even when annoyed.

"Hyung?"

Wonwoo stopped walking and finally looked at him. Mingyu froze. Wonwoo looked exhausted. Not physically, but emotionally. Like someone had reached into his chest and pulled something important out of him.

"We broke up," Wonwoo said quietly.

Mingyu's eyes widened slightly. "Oh."

It wasn't that Mingyu couldn't believe it. The two of you had been together for so long that Mingyu genuinely never imagined you apart. Plus, he knew yours and Wonwoo's history. In his mind, you and Wonwoo were... endgame.

Wonwoo looked away again. Then, very softly, he said, "It's better this way. I'll be off to college soon. I'll be too busy adjusting, and she'll be too busy with senior year; you'll be too busy with senior year, too. It's just... It's just not meant for us, I suppose."

"But-"

"Mingyu-ya, please," Wonwoo said, tears threatening to fall from his eyes. "It's better this way." He repeated before walking off again.

Mingyu trailed behind him. Even at seventeen, Mingyu knew that was probably a lie.

When senior year came, Wonwoo was settled in college. Mingyu grew closer to you without even meaning to. He was there for you throughout your healing process. His friendship with Wonwoo took a pause because of Wonwoo's busy schedule at college.

Then, Mingyu realized he couldn't function without you. He would always look for you, and he'd always feel a sense of relief when he found you. He realized that he had been feeling that way ever since he met you. He didn't understand it at all. He's never felt it before.

Until one day, you hugged him goodbye when he walked you home. His heart flipped, and he had butterflies in his stomach. It finally sank in that he has liked you ever since he met you.

But, oh, how terrible he felt.

His best friend loved you. So much. You loved his best friend, too.

He felt like a traitor, but how can he resist you when you make his day brighter? So, it came as a surprise to him when you returned his feelings and eventually became his girlfriend.

Mingyu blinked slowly as the memory faded. "It's stupid," he murmured.

"No," you said softly.

He sighed. "Back then, I thought I was sad because Wonwoo hyung was sad."

His arms tightened around you slightly. "But now I think..." Mingyu swallowed hard. "Part of me noticed you were gone, too."

You stayed quiet for a long moment. Not because you didn't know what to say, but because your heart hurt for him. Mingyu had been carrying this for years. Quietly. Secretly. Alone.

Slowly, you turned around in his arms until you were facing him properly. His eyes avoided yours immediately. That alone nearly broke you.

"Mingyu," you whispered softly, holding his face gently. "Look at me."

He tried. God, he tried, but the moment his eyes met yours, they started watering instead.

"I know it's stupid," he laughed weakly, embarrassed. "I know it sounds insane."

"It doesn't."

"It does," Mingyu insisted quietly. "Because he's my best friend."

His voice cracked slightly on the last two words. "And I love you so much that sometimes it scares me."

Your expression crumbled instantly. Mingyu finally looked at you fully this time, eyes glassy and exhausted.

"I kept looking at him since yesterday," he admitted. "And every time I did, I kept thinking..." He swallowed hard. "I could never be like that."

Your brows pulled together painfully.

"I could never know your family the way he does. I could never fit into this place the way he does." Mingyu laughed bitterly. "Even Joshua hyung knows him better than me."

"Mingyu—"

"And then I started thinking stupid things." His voice grew quieter. "Like maybe when you look at me, part of you still looks for him too."

You looked genuinely heartbroken now, and Mingyu felt awful, but he owed it to your relationship to be honest.

"Sometimes I see him in the back of my mind," Mingyu confessed shakily. "Then I ask myself if you see him whenever you look me in the eyes."

A tear slipped down his face before he could stop it.

"And sometimes…" He inhaled sharply. "Sometimes I wonder if you wish you were holding him instead of me."

Your eyes filled with tears almost instantly. For a second, you genuinely couldn't speak. All this time, Mingyu had been loving you while secretly believing he was standing in someone else's place. That thought shattered something inside you.

"Oh, baby," you whispered brokenly. You cupped his face carefully, like he was something fragile. "Is that really what you've been thinking this whole time?"

Mingyu laughed shakily, embarrassed now that the words were finally out in the open. "It sounds pathetic when I say it out loud, huh?"

"No." Your voice cracked immediately. "No, it sounds heartbreaking. I'm sorry for making you think you couldn't tell me, but I understand you completely."

Another tear slipped down Mingyu's face, and you wiped it away quickly with your thumb.

"I need you to listen to me, okay?" you whispered.

Mingyu nodded weakly.

"I loved Wonwoo once."

Mingyu's face fell slightly despite himself.

"But I'm very much in love with you."

The difference hit him immediately.

"Really?" Mingyu cried. He couldn't help it.

You nodded, tears streaming down your face as well, "Yes, really. I'm in love with you, Kim Mingyu. I'm sorry for making you feel this way."

"No, I'm sorry for being stuck in my head instead of telling you how I feel."

You and Mingyu sat there, holding each other tight, as if one of you would disappear. Mingyu cried, and you did too. When both of you calmed down, Mingyu wiped your tears away before he wiped away his.

"I was looking at him, thinking I could never be like that," Mingyu said softly.

"But it's you who I want, and I wish you could see that."

"I see that now," Mingyu smiled and kissed your forehead. "I'm sorry for only seeing it now."

"It's okay." You smiled and kissed his lips. He gingerly kissed back and gently cupped your face. The kiss you shared wasn't lustful at all. It was sweet and light. After a few minutes, you pulled away and smiled.

Mingyu stared at you with a small smile etched on his face. He felt immensely better, but he knew he had to talk to Wonwoo.

"What's on your mind?" You asked, running a hand through Mingyu's hair.

"I just realized that I have to talk with Wonwoo hyung." Mingyu sighed. "Do you think he hates me?"

"Honey, trust me when I say this: Wonwoo could never hate you." You stated. You knew Wonwoo like the back of your hand. He could never hate the people close to him. Mingyu was—no, Mingyu is one of them.

"You think so?"

"I know so." You confirmed. "How about you relax first, hm? Let's walk around first. Then, talk to him tonight, after dinner."

"That sounds great, actually. My head hurts from crying."

CHAPTER 7: BEST FRIENDS DON'T HURT EACH OTHER, BUT BEST FRIENDS DON'T BETRAY EACH OTHER EITHER

By the time the two of you got back to the house, the sky had already begun turning orange. Your slippers scraped lightly against the wooden floors as you entered the beach house hand-in-hand with Mingyu. The moment Joshua spotted both of you, his eyes narrowed immediately.

"Oh," he said slowly. "You guys talked."

You immediately pointed at him accusingly. "Don't start."

Joshua raised both hands defensively. "I didn't even say anything!"

"You were about to."

"I absolutely was."

"Ugh, I know you so well, Joshua Hong."

"Well, I'm your very handsome older brother, Y/N Hong."

Mingyu laughed quietly beside you, and Joshua paused for a second. The sound caught him off guard. Not because Mingyu never laughed, but because this one sounded easy. Natural.

"You laughed," Joshua mentioned, eyes focused on Mingyu. He half expected Mingyu to cower in his gaze, but surprisingly, Mingyu laughed even more.

"Your dynamic is very funny. I'm really grateful to witness it. Thank you again for extending me an invitation." Mingyu smiled and bowed.

Joshua exchanged a brief glance with you before smirking slightly to himself. He was proud.

"Anyway," he stretched lazily from the couch, "go shower and change into something comfortable. Mom's making dinner, and apparently, we're all required to participate in Family Bonding Time tonight."

"Ahh, yes. The dreaded "night 2" of our trip. Why must they always do this?" You groaned.

"It's part of tradition, Y/Nie." Joshua sighed, not excited either. "You do know that we'll be the ones carrying this tradition, right? All our kids will be here, and we'll be the ones drinking wine after dinner."

"That sounds threatening," Mingyu muttered.

"It is." Joshua nodded.

From the kitchen, your mother yelled, "Joshua!"

Joshua grimaced immediately, "See?"

You burst into laughter while Mingyu smiled properly for what felt like the first time since arriving.

And somehow, the entire house felt lighter because of it.

Dinner felt lighter tonight, and Mingyu noticed it immediately. This time, when Joshua teased him, he teased back. When your mother asked him to help bring drinks outside, he didn't panic internally before standing up. Even Wonwoo's father had gotten him involved in some ridiculous conversation about beach resorts and grilled meat.

And for the first time since arriving, Mingyu laughed without forcing it. More importantly, he stopped looking for Wonwoo every five seconds. Instead, he looked at you. And every time he did, you smiled back immediately.

On the other hand, Wonwoo noticed Mingyu's sudden change. It was refreshing to see the Mingyu he once knew. Whenever Wonwoo would look at him, he'd often see the shy, nerdy Mingyu who stood by the door of the gym to watch basketball practices. In some way, Wonwoo could still see that version despite having a few changes.

The old Mingyu didn't bother with skincare, but the new Mingyu seemed to be very excited about sharing his routine with Joshua and his younger brother.

The old Mingyu didn't care about his body proportions. If it were up to old Mingyu, he'd stay the same, but the new Mingyu just invited Joshua to the gym he frequents and even showed off a little bit of his arms, which made the moms (and you) swoon.

Despite all that, Wonwoo could still see how Mingyu would be shy when offered more bulgogi. He could see that while he was being talkative, he still wasn't confident enough about what he was going to say. Somehow, that made Wonwoo feel at home.

Wonwoo was really proud of Mingyu. He just wished Mingyu would see that.

By the time dinner ended, Mingyu felt strangely calm. The kitchen slowly filled with the familiar sounds of cleanup. Plates clinked softly. Your mother and Wonwoo's parents disappeared into the living room. Joshua kept stealing pieces of fruit while helping to dry the dishes, despite being scolded repeatedly.

Wonwoo stood beside the sink quietly rinsing glasses. Mingyu watched him for a moment.

"It's now or never," Mingyu thought to himself. Taking a deep breath, he asked, "Hyung?"

Wonwoo glanced over immediately. "Hm?"

Mingyu shoved his hands into his pockets awkwardly. "Do you.. wanna drink outside for a bit... later?"

There was only a brief pause. Wonwoo looked at him carefully. Not suspicious. Not upset. Just attentive. Then he nodded once, "Sure."

Wonwoo wasn't dumb. He knew what was about to happen. It wasn't just a drink. It was more than that.

Night 2 of this two-week vacation was a hit. The whole family played charades that somehow turned into a round of "What Are You Most Grateful For?" and "What Bad Habits Do You Want To Get Rid Of?" Mingyu was most surprised because everyone listened with no judgment. If he did that with his family, he'd probably get a scolding afterward.

As the house grew quieter, the parents had gone upstairs first. Wonwoo's younger brother went up next. Soon, Joshua followed after claiming he was "emotionally exhausted from being everyone's therapist". You laughed at that from the living room while Mingyu nearly choked on his drink.

Eventually, even you grew sleepy.

"You coming?" you asked softly, standing near the staircase.

Mingyu looked up from the couch. For a split second, guilt flashed across his face before he smiled gently.

"In a bit, baby."

You nodded sleepily, completely unaware. Walking over, you pressed a sweet kiss against his lips before heading upstairs. Wonwoo watched the interaction quietly from the dining area. He smiled to himself, knowing that you were in good hands.

The moment your bedroom door closed upstairs, silence settled over the house again. Mingyu inhaled slowly, then stood up. Wonwoo followed him outside without needing to be asked twice.

The night air felt colder now. Waves crashed softly against the shore nearby while the wooden deck creaked beneath their weight. Mingyu sat down first, beer bottle hanging loosely from his hand. Wonwoo sat beside him. Not too close, not too far. For a while, neither of them spoke.

Mingyu stared ahead at the dark ocean while Wonwoo quietly took a sip from his drink. It almost reminded Mingyu of high school again.

Late nights after basketball practice. Convenience store ramen. Walking home together in silence that never felt awkward. Going to the mall on weekends when Wonwoo is free. Playing games together until god knows when.

Back then, Mingyu thought nothing could ever come between them; that nothing could ever become strange between them. Now, he didn't even know where to begin.

As observant as ever, Wonwoo saw the conflict in Mingyu's eyes. He also noted that Mingyu was swirling his drink a lot, a nervous habit. Wonwoo noticed that Mingyu bit his bottom lip longer than usual. He's worried that it might bleed. If Mingyu wasn't going to say the elephant in the room, Wonwoo would give him a nudge.

"You can still tell me anything, Mingyu-yah," Wonwoo said in a soft voice. Mingyu looked at him in surprise.

"What?"

Wonwoo fully turned to look at him and said, "I can tell that you want to say something or ask something. Just go ahead. I'm not a stranger, Mingyu. I was once your best friend."

Mingyu didn't know where to begin. He was so caught up in everything in his head that he blurted out something else instead.

"Do you remember when we used to walk home together after practice?"

Wonwoo smiled faintly, "You complained the entire time."

"Because you never bought me food."

Wonwoo laughed quietly. "Well, I was saving up for dates. I didn't exactly have a job back then. I was depending on allowance."

Mingyu's smile slowly disappeared. "I miss that."

"Me, too." Wonwoo smiled fondly. "We really were attached at the hip before. Contrary to belief, I didn't have a lot of friends. I kept a small circle, and part of that circle is you. You're my best friend."

Mingyu laughed quietly, but there was nothing happy about it.

"That's kind of the problem, hyung."

Wonwoo stayed silent, tilting his head a little as he kept his gaze on Mingyu. Mingyu stared down at his drink. "I think I forgot how to be your friend somewhere along the way."

As soon as Mingyu said those words, tears began to brim in his eyes. He really didn't want to cry in front of his hyung, but he couldn't help it. He felt terrible.

"Why would you think that?" Wonwoo asked. He wasn't born last night. Of course, he had an inkling of what Mingyu was trying to say, but he wanted Mingyu to man up and say it directly. He wanted him to elaborate so they could talk like grown-ups. Most of all, he wanted to ease his best friend's pain. Wonwoo knew that Mingyu wouldn't enjoy his relationship with you if he were stuck with whatever's going on in his head.

"I felt like I stole something that was never mine to touch," Mingyu said through his tears. He looked at Wonwoo, who just nodded for him to continue.

"When she started coming around, I was nervous at first. I'd usually just hear about her, but seeing her in the flesh, I was weirdly happy. I guess I was very happy for you because you found someone you connected with at such a young age. Your eyes would light up every time she'd walk in the room. You looked at her like she hung the stars. She was your whole world."

Wonwoo smiled at that and nodded for him to continue again. It was true. Wonwoo really did look at you that way. You were his first love, the love of his life. Now, he looked at you fondly. Kind of how people look at their first love.

"I didn't know when it stopped being admiration and started becoming something worse. I genuinely kept hoping it would go away. Do you know how awful I felt the first time I realized I liked her?"

"Awful?" Wonwoo asked with furrowed brows. "How come?"

"You were heartbroken, hyung. And I was sitting there realizing I couldn't stop thinking about her or how she's doing or how heartbroken she must feel. Then, when it was just me and Y/N for senior year, we got closer. Then I just.. I started falling for her, hyung." Mingyu sighed, setting down his drink and running a hand through his hair. Wonwoo noted that Mingyu was frustrated and feeling many different things at once.

"I felt like I stole something that was never mine to touch." Mingyu sighed, not even bothering to wipe his tears away. "Every time I looked at her, I felt happy at first... then guilty right after because I'd see you in the back of my mind. Then I think of you hating me for loving someone you once loved; someone who was the love of your life."

"You really thought I'd hate you for that?" Wonwoo almost scoffed. "Mingyu, I was sad because we broke up. Not because she belonged to me. Y/N's a person. You love her. That's not betrayal. The betrayal was that you thought I'd hate you for having feelings you couldn't control."

"You started looking at me like I was someone to be afraid of. I kept wondering why you stopped calling me. I missed my best friend before I ever missed being someone's boyfriend. Do you know how lonely that sounds?" Wonwoo sighed. All his pent-up feelings were finally being released. However, he needed to let it out one by one.

Mingyu cried even more.

"What sucks is that you trusted me, hyung. I thought being happy with her automatically made me a terrible person. Yesterday, every time you were nice to me, I felt worse. I was invited here, but I felt like it was required, not because I'm actually wanted."

Wonwoo shifted in his seat to turn fully and look at him. "Mingyu, I vouched for you because I knew you'd love her properly. Joshua's hard to convince, but when I told him about you, he allowed it because he knew it would make her happy. Joshua is very much in tune with his sister, and I am too. You think I can't tell when she's happy?"

Mingyu could only look at him through his tears.

"Before she was my girlfriend, she was my best friend. She still is. She's very happy with you, Mingyu. As her best friend, I'm very happy to see her happy. That's what matters. What hurt me the most was that you stopped being my best friend long before you started dating her."

"I felt like I needed to compete with you," Mingyu cried, cheeks red and lips pouting.

"You were never competing with me, Mingyu." Wonwoo shook his head. "I told this to Joshua hyung, and now I'm telling you the same thing: I never wanted another version of me for her. The way we love her is different. She chose you. I think you punished yourself more than I ever could, and I'm so sorry that you had to go through that pain alone. Best friends are supposed to hurt with each other, not away from each other."

Silence.

Mingyu covered his face with his hands and just started bawling his eyes out. Wonwoo could feel a pang in his chest as he watched his best friend break down in front of him. 'He must've held that in for a long time', Wonwoo thought.

When Mingyu calmed down a little bit, Wonwoo took a deep breath and said, "If I'm being honest, when Y/N told Joshua about you, and he relayed it to me, I was kind of... mad. I'm only human, after all. I get sad and mad, too. For a few weeks, I was in a bad mood, and I felt betrayed—"

"See?! I betrayed you—"

"But I didn't let it linger, Mingyu." Wonwoo cut him off. If he didn't, he knew Mingyu would spiral once more. "I chose to let it go because I realized that she's a person who deserves to be loved, just. Like. You. Granted, it took some time for me to move on, but if both of you love each other so well, who am I to stop it?"

Mingyu groaned in frustration, "But I liked her while you were dating, hyung. Albeit unknowingly, but still. I was looking for her all the time, and I— I stared at her, too."

Wonwoo snickered, "You didn't think I'd notice? Of course, I knew. I trusted both of you. I know you well enough to know that you wouldn't do anything to hurt me. I know you're not the type of person to steal or betray. I can't really blame you, either. She's a catch, isn't she?"

Wonwoo looked at him expectantly, and Mingyu gave a small nod in agreement before Wonwoo continued speaking.

"Back then, I didn't mind you having a secret crush on her because I knew she went home with me at the end of the day. At that time, she chose me, but that was so long ago, Mingyu. She chose you now. And I'm so happy that I get to see her happy."

Wonwoo laughed quietly through his nose. "You know what the worst part was?"

Mingyu looked up slowly.

"I kept seeing things that reminded me of you."

Oh, Mingyu wanted to cry again.

"Convenience store ramen." Wonwoo smiled faintly. "Basketball shoes that you were obsessed with and have been saving up for. That stupid grape drink you liked."

Wonwoo looked down and added, "And every time something happened, I still wanted to call you first."

"I thought if I chose her, I'd lose you," Mingyu said quietly. Then, he laughed weakly through his tears, "Then I realized I was losing you, anyway."

Mingyu stared at him quietly. Then, his face crumpled all over again. "I'm sorry," he choked out.

Wonwoo blinked. "Mingyu—"

"No, hyung, I'm serious." Mingyu wiped at his face harshly. "I'm so sorry." His voice cracked. "I left you alone, too."

Then, Wonwoo had tears streaming down his face. That made Mingyu cry all over again. Both of them felt silly, just crying so hard in the middle of the night. But somehow, it felt good to release all of it.

Wonwoo wiped his tears and stared at him for a long time before sighing. Then he reached over and pulled Mingyu into a tight hug. "C'mere, you."

Mingyu froze instantly. "Hyung—"

"Stop thinking so hard," Wonwoo muttered quietly as he gave a few comforting pats on Mingyu's back. It was enough to make Mingyu cry all over again.

After a while, Wonwoo pulled away and wiped Mingyu's tears.

"You still look ugly when you cry," Wonwoo said with a deadpanned expression.

Mingyu gasped through his tears. "You're literally evil."

"And dramatic," Wonwoo added. "You're evil and dramatic, too."

"I learned from you, hyung." Mingyu chuckled.

"I learned from Joshua hyung." Wonwoo laughed, which made Mingyu laugh, too.

"So," Mingyu started, "are we okay?"

"We're more than okay, Mingyu-yah," Wonwoo confirmed. "We'll be just fine."

EPILOGUE - MONTHS LATER

Sunday mornings had started feeling familiar again. This week, you and Mingyu went home to your childhood home. Wonwoo came along, too. After all, he only lived next door.

The sound of pans clinking downstairs. Your mother is humming worship songs in the kitchen. Joshua is complaining dramatically about waking up early despite being awake for the past hour already.

Mingyu woke up slowly to the warmth of sunlight spilling across your bedroom floor. For a moment, he simply lay there, staring at the ceiling while listening to the muffled sound downstairs.

A few months ago, Mingyu would've panicked waking up in this house. He would've overthought every interaction waiting for him downstairs. Wondered if he was intruding. Wondered if everyone secretly preferred someone else sitting beside you at breakfast.

Now?

"Kim Mingyu! Y/N Hong!" Joshua yelled from downstairs. "If you don't wake up right now, I'm stealing all the fried rice!"

Mingyu snorted to himself. Yeah, things were different now.

Beside him, you groaned softly into your pillow. "Tell Joshua I hate him."

"He says good morning to you, too, baby."

You cracked one eye open and frowned sleepily. "What time is it?"

"Church time."

That got an even louder groan out of you.

Mingyu laughed quietly before sitting up properly. Your bedroom door was slightly open, and he could already smell breakfast drifting upstairs. He rubbed his face tiredly before glancing around your room.

Then his eyes landed on something familiar sitting on your desk. Your Bible. Mingyu stared at it for a moment. Then, without even thinking too hard about it, he stood up and walked over. By the time you dragged yourself out of bed, Mingyu was already sitting on the small couch near your window. Your Bible rested in his hands while he squinted suspiciously at one of the pages.

You blinked sleepily at the sight. "…What are you doing?"

Mingyu didn't even look up. "Apparently, a man got swallowed by a whale."

You burst into laughter instantly. Mingyu finally looked at you with the same expression he had months ago—genuine disbelief mixed with betrayal.

"I'm serious! Why are these stories so intense?" He flipped the page dramatically. "And why does nobody react normally?!"

You fell back onto the bed laughing while Mingyu fought back a smile.

"You know," he murmured quietly, looking back down at the page, "I think I get why you like this stuff now."

Your laughter softened immediately. Mingyu traced absentmindedly over one of your highlighted verses with his thumb.

"It's comforting." He shrugged softly. "Messy people trying their best. Loving each other badly sometimes. Still being forgiven anyway."

You stared at him for a moment. Then your expression melted completely. "Oh," you whispered.

Mingyu looked up immediately. "What?"

"Nothing," you smiled emotionally. "I just love you."

Mingyu's face softened so quickly it almost hurt to look at. Before he could answer, Joshua suddenly appeared at the doorway holding car keys.

"Love each other later," he deadpanned. "We're gonna be late for church."

You threw a pillow at him immediately. Joshua dodged it easily before tossing the car keys toward Mingyu instead. Mingyu caught them automatically.

"You're driving today," Joshua said casually.

Mingyu blinked. "Me?"

"Yes, you. Mom likes your driving better." Joshua shrugged before turning around dramatically. "Also, hurry up, brother-in-law. Mom hates being late for church."

Silence. You froze. Joshua kept walking downstairs like he hadn't just changed the trajectory of someone's entire emotional state. Meanwhile, Mingyu sat there completely still.

Brother-in-law.

Not guest. Not Y/N's boyfriend. Not Wonwoo's friend.

Family.

You looked at him carefully. "Gyu?"

Mingyu laughed quietly to himself. Then he looked around your room. At your Bible in his lap. At the sunlight spilling through the windows. At you standing in front of him, looking half-awake and beautiful.

Home.

For the first time in a long time, Mingyu stopped wondering whether he belonged there. Because somewhere along the way, without even noticing, he already did.

-

Mass had already ended ten minutes ago. Unfortunately, your mother had no intentions of leaving anytime soon. You sat slumped dramatically against the church pew while Joshua stared blankly into space beside you like a soldier returning from war. Near the altar, your mother continued happily chatting with three different church friends while occasionally pointing toward the two of you.

"I think she's introducing our entire bloodline at this point," Joshua muttered.

You sighed. "She's been saying goodbye since mass ended."

"Classic mom behavior." Joshua shook his head and crossed his arms. "Gosh, imagine how long it'll take her to say goodbye to her church friends when we give her grandkids."

"Oh, lord, I don't want to think about that, yet." You huffed. "The kids would fall asleep first before she finishes saying goodbye."

Mingyu sat quietly beside you, amused. A few months ago, he would've felt awkward sitting here. Out of place. Like, he didn't belong in the middle of your family traditions. Now? Now he was just sleepy.

Just then, his phone buzzed in his pocket. Mingyu blinked before checking the screen.

Wonwoo Hyung Don't let Joshua hyung pick the worship songs on the drive home. He thinks Hillsong is club music.

Mingyu snorted loudly. Joshua narrowed his eyes immediately, "What?"

Just as Mingyu opened his mouth to respond, another text came in that garnered his attention.

Wonwoo Hyung Also, your church is terrifying. Why does everyone know your name already?? You must be popular among the ahjummas.

This time, Mingyu laughed, shoulders shaking and all. You leaned against him curiously, "Who's texting you?"

"Mhm," Mingyu hummed, trying not to smile too hard. Then, another message appeared.

Wonwoo Hyung Wanna buy a shit ton of ramen and play games later?

Mingyu stared at the message for a second. Then slowly, he smiled. Beside him, Joshua groaned dramatically.

"Oh my god," he whispered in horror.

You blinked and looked at Joshua, "What?"

Joshua pointed toward your mother across the church. "She's starting another conversation."

You groaned and started ranting with Joshua again while Mingyu typed back.

Mingyu: only if you're buying the ramen :p Wonwoo Hyung: Me again?! You never changed istg. Fine.

Mingyu looked down at the screen and laughed quietly to himself. Yeah, some things never change, and maybe that was a good thing.

a/n: my bread and butter is finally out! please please please send me some feedback! I'd really appreciate a like, reblog, or a comment! :>

feel free to send over an ask if you wanna talk abt this fic or just want to give a review in general! I'd love to talk about it with y'all :)

[film-ymads]

hannah montana vibes

[shuajunice]

Domestic Boyfriend AU | K.M.G

Pairing: domestic bf!mingyu x gf!reader Summary: a headcanon of mingyu being your domestic boyfriend! (y'all had just started dating and he's LOCKED IN) Warning/s: very domestic mingyu Notes: i have a minwon fic coming up so im just warming y'all up! it's gonna be angsty, so here's smth fluffy :)

by some miracle, mingyu was able to ask you out on a date after his many, many tries

the date went absolutely well, so you went on more dates. he asked you to be his girlfriend after 6 dates, but you said no. the man was PERSISTENT so you eventually said yes after he told you that he had a "vision".

as soon as you said yes, mingyu had no plans in slowing down bc for him, you were IT. the first time he saw you? dating apps: deleted. girls on his instagram: unfollowed, blocked, and chats were deleted. contacts: exes and situationships were deleted. he was very committed to you even before you knew it.

in mingyu's mind, you're already married

grocery shopping dates "We also need to get stuff from my list." Mingyu says, pushing the cart. "What's on your list?" "Ingredients for tonight's dinner. I'm cooking, so just relax."

sends you furniture links at 2AM "Let's go to IKEA." "We don't live together, Gyu." "Not YET ;)"

cooks for you constantly! You're craving truffle pasta? He's already out buying truffle oil and stuff. You want fries and have no patience in ordering? He's making fries FROM SCRATCH!

talks about "our _____" casually "Our kitchen should be very clean all the time, and I want a kitchen island that's huge." "Our bathroom should have one of those fancy showers that has a 'rain' setting so I can act out emotional drama scenes when I shower." "Our kids are gonna be so cool because we're cool... but you're also very awkward so I hope they only get a little bit of that."

gets extremely excited over mundane couple things "I got us matching house slippers!! Aren't they cute?!" "I don't care if we have different phones because I bought us matching cases!!" "My mom gifted us matching bathrobes and mugs. You can't leave me now because my mom likes you for me, and I like you very much. These robes are so cute!! Let's use all of this on our at-home spa day!"

sends you apartment listings just for "looking", but already calculated commute times for both of you

absolutely the type to stand behind you while you cook, just to hug your waist and bother you,

keeps buying “extras” for his apartment because “you’re here all the time anyway”

gets proud over domestic things. it genuinely feeds his ego. fixing a cabinet? changing a lightbulb? fixing the sink? checking your car? suddenly, he's the man of the house "I'll do it, babe. I'm THE man, after all."

owns an apron that somehow screams boyfriend material

would 100% argue with you in ikea over aesthetics and then apologize by buying you dessert afterward

keeps pictures of you on his fridge like a husband who misses his wife at work. actually, he keeps your pictures everywhere: his wallet, his phone case, by the door (so he can kiss it before he leaves), on his nightstand, and on his bathroom mirror so he can flex his muscles in front of you or just talk to you while doing his skin care routine

if you stay over multiple nights in a row, he starts referring to his apartment as “home” for both of you "Just move in here already!! Or we can get the apartment down the road. It's so pretty!"

definitely the type to say “this reminded me of you” every time he buys random home items

if you jokingly call him your husband once, he thinks about it for the next three business days "Cheol hyung, she called me her husband... I can't function!" *when he picks you up from a party* "Hi, it's me; the husband! I'm ready to pick up my gorgeous wife!" "Let's get married NOW"

secretly loves when people assume you live together already because honestly? in his mind, you practically do "Seokmin thinks we live together, isn't that crazy? Actually, you know what? It isn't."

one day you realize he’s been building a life around you so naturally that neither of you even noticed when it started happening "Mingyu?" "Yeah?" "Let's move in together." "Oh hELL YEAH! You won't regret it, babe. I'm calling the agent about that pretty apartment down the road. We need a place that's new and fresh if we want a fresh start for our new chapter together. God, I love you so much."

a/n: now im jealous of y/n

[shuajunice]

College Boyfriend AU | J.W.W

Pairing: college bf!wonwoo x gn!reader Summary: just a headcanon of wonwoo as your college bf and also your first love Warning/s: - Notes: i have a minwon fic coming up so im just warming y'all up! it's gonna be angsty, so here's smth fluffy :)

would buy you cold drinks from the vending machine on chill dates

he would pause studying to entertain your random thoughts

STUDY DATES!!

he'd definitely be the type to celebrate after finals

he'd also be the type to save his money, so he could take you on fancy dates on your anniversary (and he's been consistent too bc y'all have been together for 5 years) Wonwoo was careful with money, but anniversaries with you were the one thing he never held back on. Every year, he’d quietly save up for months just to take you somewhere fancy—some pretty restaurant with dim lights and a city view, where he’d sit across from you looking calmer than he actually felt. “Don’t look at the prices,” he’d mumble with a small laugh, gently nudging the menu down. “Just order what you want tonight.” When you asked if he really planned all of this himself, he’d smile shyly and admit, “I started saving for this months ago.” The whole night, he’d show his affection in small ways—fixing your necklace when it slipped, refilling your glass before you asked, keeping his hand over yours on the table. At some point, he’d look at you quietly and confess, “You still make me nervous on dates.” And when dinner ended, Wonwoo would intertwine your fingers with his and softly say, “Let’s walk around a little more. I don’t want the night to end yet.”

always packs an umbrella because you constantly forget yours “five years and you still forget your umbrella. good thing you have me.”

if his class ends early, he goes to the library to do his homework while waiting for your class to end “your class ends at four, right? i’ll wait at the library. don’t walk back to your dorm alone, it’s gonna rain later.”

if your class ends early, he'd go straight to your dorm

he's on his phone while he's out with friends and sends you photo updates. he never waits for you to ask; he just sends them "oh look at him, he's so gone." jeonghan teases. "at least include us in the photo so they believe you're out with us." "they're not fragile." wonwoo says, but angles his phone so his friends can be seen in the photo anyway. "say cheese."

CAN READ YOU LIKE A BOOK!!! and also very, very observant “i know you said you’re fine, but your texts got shorter. what happened?”

protective of you even when he's not around “no, stay on the phone with me while you walk back. don't wanna risk anything happening to you.”

never lets you go to bed angry. if you fight, he goes to your dorm and wait until you're ready to talk. his parents told him to never go to bed angry if you fight with your partner, and he took it seriously “you don’t have to apologize for being stressed. come here.”

always ready to pick you up after you hang out with friends. wonwoo would always be outside, holding the cute helmet he bought for you, and lovingly putting it on you

when it was time to apply for internships, wonwoo was able to get one quickly. when you said you were getting frustrated, wonwoo would do mock interviews with you and give you constructive criticism (+ he helped you improve your resume). needless to say, he was definitely a big help because you got in one of the biggest companies in korea

definitely the type to remind you to eat and drink water whenever you don't have classes bc he knows you too well “drink your water first before telling me about your day. yeah, i’m serious. you get headaches when you forget.”

he remembers your class schedule better than you do. sometimes he texts “good luck on your quiz :)” and you forgot you even had one

he’s not huge on PDA around campus, but he’s always touching you somehow. hand on your backpack strap, pinkies linked, and hand on your waist while crossing the street

he starts carrying small things you “might need” because dating you taught him you’re always forgetting something. lip balm, charger, painkillers, etc.

after exams, he’s the type to say “you did well” before asking how you think you did because he knows you overthink immediately after tests “you did well today. i’m proud of you.”

he saves candid pictures of you in a hidden folder on his phone. blurry cafeteria photos, sleeping during study sessions, laughing mid-sentence

if you pull all-nighters together, he gets quieter and clingier by 3am. resting his head on your shoulder while reading over notes “you fell asleep on your notes again. at least pretend to use the pillow i bought you.”

he learns your coffee order so well that he starts buying it before you even ask “i brought your favorite drink. and before you ask, yes, i remembered the no ice.”

he’s already building a life for the both of you, even before you ask. he knows you're a worrier and he doesn't want you to worry about your future at all "I've been saving up lately." wonwoo says as you both walk to the convenience store at 2am. you look at him and ask, "for what?" "a place for us eventually." he shrugs a little. "nothing huge, obviously. just a small, quaint place... somewhere you won't have to leave at midnight just to come to me."

when you graduate together, he takes a picture of you holding flowers and just stares at it for a second because he can’t believe you both made it through college together

OH i can see him as the type of guy who'd gift you a promise ring on college graduation day “Wait, don’t move yet.” Wonwoo gently takes your hand before slipping the ring onto your finger, smiling shyly when your eyes widen. “I know it’s not… you know, an actual ring yet,” he laughs softly, thumb rubbing against your knuckles, “but I still wanted to give you something.” He looks at you for a moment, eyes warm and full of quiet affection before mumbling, “Five years, college, all those nights studying together… and you still chose me every day.” Then he squeezes your hand gently and whispers, “So this is my promise that I’ll keep choosing you too.” A small smile pulls onto his face as he adds, “We made it, and honestly? I can’t wait for the next chapter with you.”

a/n: GOD THIS GAVE ME BUTTERFLIES and im suddenly jealous

[shuajunice]

Please Notice Me | H.J.S

Pairing: part-time barista!college student!joshua x college student!fem!reader (x college student!seungcheol [platonic])

Summary: In a sea of college students trying to get by, Joshua only seems to struggle with one thing: his big, fat crush on you. In a desperate attempt for you to at least look his way, he takes the barista job at your favorite cafe, Handsome Coffee. Will you finally notice him?

Warning/s: cheol being a tease, shua being so down bad, chaotic, kim seokjin mentioned and a bit of jungkook, some swear words, lowkey obsessed joshua, religious joshua, mentions of murder but nothing serious (trust)

Notes: this is in the same universe as my yoongi fic! thought it'd be nice to have it in the same universe bc why not? the beginning part is actually a callback to my yoongi fic (it'll make sense, I promise)

Songs: espresso by sabrina carpenter, sunday morning by maroon 5, enchanted by taylor swift, you are in love by taylor swift, crush by david archuleta, adore you by harry styles, pretty u by svt, just one day by bts, i wish by one direction, everything about you by one direction, i would by one direction

Word count: 20,779

P.S. I had accidentally posted this 😭 so I'm tagging the three people that gave it a like when it got posted so they can read the full fic: @explore-my-world @blqckie @jkoishi-11.

PROLOGUE

Kim Seokjin was very happy. Having established his own successful business, he deserved more than just a pat on the back. After all, he didn't ask his extremely wealthy father for help. Rather, he did all of it on his own, and he worked very hard. Due to this, Kim Seokjin decided it was best to open another branch of 'Handsome Coffee' for a number of reasons: 1.) to manage the original branch's foot traffic, 2.) to target a new market, and 3.) to earn more money. Because honestly, who doesn't want more money?

Seokjin gathered all his courage, savings, and patience and opened a second branch near several universities. It was a smart move, considering his first branch was in the business district. He also made the decision to place some of his part-time baristas to run shifts at the second location. After all, they were university students themselves, and it was more accessible to them compared to the first branch. After three months, when Handsome Coffee was already stable enough, Seokjin thought it was time to hire a manager. After all, he couldn't manage two Handsome Coffee branches at the same time. So, it was time to hunt for the best candidate.

-

Lee Jihoon wanted to be a music producer; a serious music producer. Don't get him wrong, he loved his job at the TV network. He loved his colleagues, he loved the company's building and amenities, he loved its location, and he loved the work-life balance that it offered. However, after three years of working there, he decided it was time for him to stop. It was clear that he wasn't going anywhere with that career path. He wanted to produce music that would speak to people. Heck, he even dropped out just for his passion. Alas, all he did for three years was create background music for the morning news, the afternoon news, the evening news, the late-night news, and if Jihoon was being extra good at his job (not sure how that's possible because he's simply the best at his job), they'd make him create background music for talk shows or dramas.

With a heavy heart, he typed out his resignation letter.

"Dear sir, I hope this letter finds you in good health…" Jihoon mumbled to himself as he typed. He quickly shook his head and erased it. "That's so Hamilton-coded."

He sighed and stretched his back before typing again. This time, he really locked in.

"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities that I have been given in this post. I deeply value the insights I have learned, and I expect them to help me in my future endeavors. I would also like to express my sincere gratitude for being a support system in my growth both professionally and personally. I have enjoyed my time as a television composer and I have enjoyed working with you and the rest of the team. Let me know how I can help in making the transition of responsibilities as smooth as possible for everyone involved. Thank you. Best wishes, Lee Jihoon"

Not knowing what to do after sending his resignation via email, Jihoon went out to treat himself at the new coffee shop that just opened.

Upon entering, Jihoon took note of the aroma that enveloped the whole place. It was clear that the design was catered to students. Ergonomic chairs, a loft-style space, a mezzanine with bean bags, high-speed WiFi, small meeting rooms for group projects, and many, many charging areas for gadgets. The area itself was clearly designed for students to collaborate and study. Jihoon thought he was out of place. Though, he figured, there was absolutely nothing to be insecure about because the students in the cafe were minding their own business. Some were there last night, and others just got there.

"I'm probably the only one who isn't a student." He thought to himself. With one more look at the place, he got up to the counter to order for himself.

"Welcome to Handsome Coffee! What can I get for you?" A young man smiled at him. Jihoon thought the man's eyes resembled boba… now, he wants boba, but he couldn't back out now or that'd be awkward.

"Hi, um…" Jihoon squinted his eyes and read the cashier's name, "Jungkook. I, uh, I'll just have an iced Americano. I'll keep it simple today."

The cashier, Jungkook, nodded and punched his order. After paying, Jihoon waited at the hand-off area and saw a small sign that said: "URGENT HIRING: STORE MANAGER AND BARISTAS".

A voice pulled him away from his thoughts, "Are you interested in applying? Everyone's welcome."

Jihoon looked at the person and found a man sliding his iced Americano and looking at him with a small smile on his face.

"I'm Kim Seokjin, by the way. I'm the manager and I own the place. Um, this is actually the second location of Handsome Coffee. I need someone to manage this place while I manage the main branch."

Jihoon smiled and introduced himself. Then, Seokjin walked around the counter and began discussing with Jihoon about the position. Seokjin may not have the usual talents others have (i.e., singing, dancing, etc.), but he can definitely spot potential in people.

Jihoon and Seokjin took a seat nearby and they continued their discussion. Jihoon didn't expect to get stuck in this situation. He didn't know how to get out of it either. Jihoon then realized that he didn't have a job after sending over his resignation letter.

"When a door closes, another one opens." Jihoon thought, as he looked at Seokjin animatedly, talking to him about Handsome Coffee's roots.

"So, are you in?" Seokjin asked, looking at him intently.

Jihoon thought Seokjin was a kind man. A kind, no-nonsense kind of man who's just passionate about his business. He thought it was a good trait to have.

"Fuck it." Jihoon said to himself.

"Yeah, I'm in." Jihoon smiled as he shook hands with Seokjin. After all, how bad could it be?

CHAPTER 1: THE CRUSH THAT STARTED EVERYTHING

Joshua Hong usually kept to himself. After graduating high school in LA, he went to college in Korea. He figured it was time to get in touch with his Korean heritage even more. The move wasn't easy because he was away from his family, but he took the risk anyway. He wanted to start fresh.

The adjustment was difficult at first. After all, he felt more Western than Asian. He learned about proper greetings, how to address people properly, and how to speak with different levels of respect depending on who he's talking to. It was challenging, but he overcame it.

Making friends was kind of difficult for him, though. The guys at his university already had a set of friends. He was nice to people he met, but he didn't have his own circle.

"It's not that deep," he told his mom one night, "I can survive."

"Joshua, you need to put yourself out there. You don't even have a girlfriend!"

"Mom, chill. I'm still young! I just started college. Besides, I still have plenty of time. Right now, I'm focused on my goal in being a registered Child Psychiatrist."

"Aish, but that's so far away. I know you'll get there, but you still have a lot to do. You're only a freshman, after all."

"Mom, I'll be fine. I'll visit soon, okay? I have to go or I'll be late."

Joshua's conversations with his mom consisted of talks about his future. His relationship with his ex-girlfriend wasn't that serious, anyway. They were on and off for about a year and a half. Joshua didn't really see a future with her, but he liked having her around, liked having a girlfriend to spoil, and liked having a person to talk to. His ex-girlfriend felt the same way. The reason why they were on and off was because they weren't sure where they're going.

Joshua's freshman year consisted of walking to university from his dorm, going to the library to do his homework, and getting invited to parties sometimes because everyone likes having a nice guy around, right? Despite that, he still hasn't made any friends.

Joshua genuinely didn't mind, but it was starting to become lonely sometimes. After all, he was only human. Nevertheless, he just focused on his studies, spoke to his friends and family back home, and roamed around Seoul in his free time.

When summer came around, he went back to LA and spent his summer with his friends. A few weeks into his summer vacation, he got notified that he was added in a Facebook group for sophomores in their university. He browsed through it and saw familiar names and faces. Shrugging it off, he placed his phone back in his pocket and carried on as usual.

Being a sophomore psychology major is trickier than being a freshman. Joshua's classes were now held at the other building which is in the opposite direction of his dorm. He didn't have a car in Korea, nor did he have a Korean driver's license… not yet, at least (even though his mom was pestering him to get one already). If he knew about the change, he'd move to a different dorm. Alas, he guessed it wasn't meant for him.

Now, he had to wake up earlier than usual in order to get to class at least 10-20 minutes before the professor came in. Joshua didn't really fancy waking up super early.

-

Today, Joshua was having a really bad day. He snoozed his alarm 3 times, arrived late, got in trouble for being late, and accidentally handed over his reviewer notes in lieu of his homework which he left on top of his desk. After twenty minutes of begging and pleading with the professor to allow him to hand over the real one before grading, he came out with a small smile on his face and his reviewer on his hand.

He checked his watch and realized he was late for a group meeting for his group project in one of his major subjects. His group mates asked for him to meet them at the university's courtyard which was located at the university's other other building.

"This university has way too many buildings…" Joshua huffed to himself as he awkwardly ran around the university. While running, he took out his phone and started texting their group chat.

It was then that he collided with another person, and the collision was hard, to say the least. Papers and books were strewn around them, and Joshua quickly got up to help gather papers. When he looked up, his whole world stopped. In front of him was you. Your hair was effortlessly let down and you looked at him with a small smile.

"Thanks." You said as he handed you your papers and books.

"You too." Joshua softly muttered to you causing you to chuckle a bit. "Oh, um, I mean, you're welcome." His face was beet red. Was it embarrassment? Was it because he was shy? He wasn't sure, and he didn't care.

"Thanks, again. Bye!" You smiled and left. Joshua looked at you as you walked away, almost forgetting he was supposed to meet his group mates at the library.

Since then, Joshua has been seeing you everywhere. It was as if everything's falling into place. Has he ever spoken to you since he bumped into you? No. He definitely didn't want to talk to you after that. Well, he wanted to, but he knows he'd only make a fool out of himself.

Every time he'd see you, his day instantly got better. It's as if you were the missing piece in his lonely life in Korea. He'd often call his mom and best friend from LA just to talk about you.

"What's her name?" His best friend asked.

"I didn't ask, but does it even matter? She's an angel, I swear. Oh! I saw her today and god, she looked amazing. She had a cute skirt on, paired with a long-sleeved shirt and a cute vest. She even had high socks and some loafers on."

"Are you, by any chance at all, talking about season 1 Rachel Berry?"

Joshua made a face, "Dude, no, I swear I'm not. I'd rather have Santana Lopez. She's hot."

"True. Anyway, back to your crush. Just talk to her!" his best friend exclaimed.

"I'll consider it."

"Or just find out where she hangs out the most and hang out there too."

"That sounds stalkerish." Joshua hummed.

"You idiot. Of course, you'd have to talk to her!"

"BIG NO!" Joshua said. Even the thought of talking to you made him panic. He liked you so much, he might explode.

He ended up taking his best friend's advice and began following you around in his free time. Well, "follow you around" is a strong phrase. Joshua preferred to call it "observing you from afar". At least that's what he uses every time he tells his best friend and mom.

He learned a few things about you:

Your favorite color is (Y/F/C).

You only hang out with two guys everyday. One of them, he learned over time, was your twin. (Equally pretty in his opinion. He had to double check if he was a man or a woman because of his features.)

You always hang out at Handsome Coffee with the guys you're always with. Most often, it's the guy who isn't your twin.

Joshua figured you loved Handsome Coffee so much. He'd go there sometimes even when you're not there, just to get a feel of the place. Joshua grew to like the place too. He always changes his orders, so he could try all of their drinks.

Sometimes, when you're there, he'd hear you laugh with the guy you're with. He couldn't help but feel jealous too.

"Joshua, you're being ridiculous." He'd often tell himself as he observed you from afar. He truly felt ridiculous because who was he to get jealous, anyway? You're free to do whatever you want. Besides, you didn't know him at all, and he doubted that you remembered him at all.

On this day, Joshua watched from his seat as you left with the guy. He sighed to himself and swirled his iced mocha around. Just as he's about to leave, he saw a sign on the window that said: "URGENT HIRING: PART-TIME BARISTAS".

Joshua quickly looked for the manager and said, "I would like to apply as a part-time barista. When can I start? I can deliver, I promise! Please hire me."

Jihoon, the branch manager, looked at him like he was crazy.

"Jihoon, be kind to yourself. He's crazy. You don't need another crazy barista." Jihoon thought to himself as he stared at Joshua, who was waiting for his reply. However, Jihoon had promised Seokjin that he'd give part-timers a chance because they're in need too. With a heavy inhale, Jihoon could only nod, making Joshua happier than ever.

CHAPTER 2: JOSHUA FROM LA LIKES THE REGULAR CUSTOMER AND SEUNGKWAN DISCOVERED IT. GIVE HIM A BONUS, JUSEYO. -BOO SEUNGKWAN

"'Hi, what can I get for you?' No, that sounds robotic." Joshua said as he practiced his dialogue to nobody. After all, he got the solo dorm because he didn't want to deal with having a roommate. "'Hey! Ordering something?' That sounds rude."

Today is Joshua's first day at Handsome Coffee. He's pretty excited. Today will be pretty chill because it's the weekend. Their only customers would be outsiders or university students who have Saturday classes. It's Joshua's first-ever job and he's genuinely looking forward to seeing you as his customer… and he's looking forward to working with his co-baristas and gaining new friends.

Upon arriving at the cafe, Joshua was greeted by Jihoon, the branch manager. All hands were on deck that day despite the slow day. Apparently, Kim Seokjin had told Jihoon that weekends should be full of staff in case there's an increase in foot traffic.

-

It's been a month since Joshua joined Handsome Coffee, and he's been loving it so far. He loves being able to make drinks, loves joking around with his workmates, and he loves seeing you whenever he's on shift. He had learned more about his workmates over time. He even created a personal Google Sheet containing his workmates' profiles just so he can remember them and their roles in Handsome Coffee (he's very forgetful).

NAME: LEE JIHOON ROLE: Manager / Shift Supervisor STATUS: Full-time RESPONSIBILITIES: Manages daily operations, schedules staff shifts, handles inventory, trains new employees, reports directly to Kim Seokjin (owner), handles cafe playlist JOSHUA'S NOTES: his energy resembles a single parent of chaotic children NAME: BOO SEUNGKWAN ROLE: Front Counter / Customer Relations STATUS: Full-time RESPONSIBILITIES: Takes orders, handles customer complaints, recommends drinks, maintains cafe vibe JOSHUA'S NOTES: loves tea (the gossip), cheekbones higher than my grades, knows customer gossip, great people skills, graduated college early (so smart) with the course of Communication Arts NAME: KWON SOONYOUNG ROLE: Coffee & Beverage Specialist STATUS: Full-time RESPONSIBILITIES: oversees drink preparation, trains baristas, maintains drink quality, creates seasonal specials (subject to approval by Kim Seokjin and Lee Jihoon) JOSHUA'S NOTES: energetic, tiger obsessed, creative, dances while cleaning, temporarily stopped studying to save up for tuition, sometimes absent to join dance competitions for extra cash, ex-coffee master at Starbucks NAME: WEN JUNHUI ROLE: Pastry Handler / Bakery Support STATUS: Full-time RESPONSIBILITIES: Plates pastries, slices cakes, restocks baked goods, warms food, prepares pastry displays JOSHUA'S NOTES: martial arts guy, graduated early with the course of Hospitality Management (another smart alec), can work under pressure (honestly so amazing) NAME: JEON WONWOO ROLE: Inventory & Logistics Support / Barista / Asst. Manager STATUS: Part-time RESPONSIBILITIES: Tracks ingredients, restocks supplies, manages deliveries, handles maintenance support, helps in drink preparation, acts as manager when Jihoon is on day-off JOSHUA'S NOTES: calm, quiet, reliable, detail-oriented, full-time gamer while being a part-time worker, no one knows if he goes to uni NAME: KIM MINGYU ROLE: Maintenance Support / Cafe Utility / Custodian / Barista STATUS: Part-time RESPONSIBILITIES: Fixes broken chairs, assembles shelves, moves heavy supplies, maintains cafe cleanliness, cleaning floors, sanitizing restrooms, emptying trash, makes drinks during peak hours JOSHUA'S NOTES: don't let his j.d. fool you bc he's clumsy, 4th year high school, handsome :)) NAME: LEE CHAN ROLE: Custodian / Barista / Delivery Boy (weekends) STATUS: Part-time RESPONSIBILITIES: Maintains cafe cleanliness, cleaning floors, sanitizing restrooms, emptying trash, makes drinks during peak hours, washes dishes, handles delivery JOSHUA'S NOTES: fast-moving, energetic like Soonyoung, 2nd year high school student NAME: LEE SEOKMIN ROLE: Barista STATUS: Part-time RESPONSIBILITIES: Prepares ingredients, makes drinks, restocks drink supplies, assigned at the bar (hot and iced beverage) station JOSHUA'S NOTES: loud, funny, good tandem with Seungkwannie, 4th year high school NAME: XU MINGHAO ROLE: Barista / Cafe Design Support STATUS: Part-time RESPONSIBILITIES: Designs chalkboard menus, creates seasonal posters (subject to approval by Kim Seokjin and Lee Jihoon), decorates cafe according to theme, latte art specialist, assigned at the blended beverage station JOSHUA'S NOTES: loves tea (the drink), calm, meditates before shift, sells hand-painted phone cases for extra cash on the side, I owe him ₩300 for the hand-painted phone case I bought from him, 4th year high school NAME: CHWE HANSOL VERNON ROLE: Barista / Social Media Specialist STATUS: Part-time RESPONSIBILITIES: Runs cafe social media, takes photos of drinks, posts promotions, edits reels/videos, assigned at the blended beverage station JOSHUA'S NOTES: fellow American homie :)), weirdo, 4th year high school (accelerated)

Joining the team, Joshua was assigned at the bar along with Seokmin. Soonyoung was proud that Joshua was able to pick things up fast. It didn't take long for him to get the rhythm of the cafe.

Sometimes, if his schedule allows him, he'd get a morning shift. Morning shifts are really busy. He'd see familiar faces getting their coffee fix before going to class. It's always so loud. Students taking their online classes in random tables with AirPods on, Seungkwan taking orders, professors and students in line to buy themselves breakfast, the coffee machines in effect, the bell of the door ringing, the low hum of the oven, the fridge opening and slamming shut, and one of them calling out orders quickly. It was chaotic, but still doable. After all, the morning shifts are usually for people who are working in Handsome Coffee full-time. Only about 2-3 part-time workers are there.

Afternoon shifts are chill. It's more relaxed because some students are still in class, and others just finished class. Handsome Coffee would be partly occupied for chilling. Sometimes, joggers around the area also go there for their fix of caffeine. This is where Seungkwan steps away from the counter to spill random customer gossip no one has ever asked for.

"Ha Ji-Young is pregnant and the baby daddy is some guy she met at a club. Listen, I'm all for being free, wild, and y'know… the S word, but at least wrap it up. Don't feed into the breeding kink fantasy because once you're ACTUALLY bred, you might regret it. Anyway, I heard her course is pretty stressful, so good luck, I guess." Seungkwan told Joshua on a random Tuesday.

"Where do you get these things?! And who's Ha Ji-Young??" Joshua asked, earning a smack on the arm from Seungkwan.

"Shh, don't be so loud! She's the one wearing an ugly tracksuit by the window. It's so last year. She's probably wearing it because she peaked last year. Did you know a lot of guys and girls follow her wherever she goes? Now they're all gone. Why? Because she's with child. Pretend you don't know, okay? Let's not make her feel awkward." Seungkwan said as they both looked at the subject in question.

"Who are you guys talking about?" Mingyu asked as he got back from bringing the plates to the backroom for Chan to wash.

"Ha Ji-Young." Seungkwan answered. Mingyu's eyes widened and he whispered, "Jinjja? Is it true that she's pregnant?!"

"Like a pregnancy test, POSITIVE." Seungkwan answered. "I heard her crying on the phone a month ago. She keeps telling everyone that she's bloated, but her body is definitely not bloated. Plus, she's a cheerleader, isn't she? She quit cheerleading."

"Oh my god. It's scary that you know a lot." Joshua shook his head as he wiped down the counter. 'Poor Ha Ji-Young', Joshua thought. 'Not safe from Seungkwan's gossip'.

Evening shifts were ones that Joshua loathes. Just as they finish announcing last call orders, they experience a second wave of peak because by some magical force, EVERYONE within the vicinity wants to order Handsome Coffee. Jihoon is at his wits end at this point. He'd call up Seokjin at random times to ask and report things.

"Seokjin-sajangnim, I'm sorry for calling this late. How do we navigate the advanced app orders again?"

"Sajangnim, I'm sorry for calling now, but it's urgent. The customer didn't like their coffee and they're demanding for a Handsome Coupon. Shall I give it or shall I give something else?"

Once the influx of customers are gone, they're too tired to function. However, they still have to clean. Chan usually doesn't work night shifts unless it's a Saturday, so most of the time, Soonyoung washes the dishes because he's quick with it and he's desperate to go home. Jihoon would close sales, Jun would close the pastry area, Joshua or Seokmin would close the bar, Minghao or Wonwoo would close the blended beverage station, and Mingyu and Seungkwan would clean the customer area. Whoever finishes first would help Mingyu and Seungkwan because the customer area has a mezzanine.

Today is kind of a busy day. The university announced that classes have been cancelled for two days, so all the part-time workers are working full shifts. Jihoon informed this to Kim Seokjin, and as thanks, Seokjin told Jihoon that they'll be getting additional payment. Of course, the part-timers were happy, and the full-timers can now rest.

Seungkwan was feeling under the weather, so Wonwoo is currently behind the counter. At Handsome Coffee, regardless of where you're assigned, you're still required to learn the basics about the other stations. As for Joshua, he's only been there for a month. His cashier training hasn't begun because he's not yet beverage certified.

"Welcome to Handsome Coffee." Wonwoo greeted flatly as customers came in.

"Geez, at least pretend to be happy." Soonyoung nudged him. Wonwoo gave the customers a small, fake smile before taking their orders. Soonyoung stood beside Joshua and said, "Alright, let's see what you've got when you're alone. Seokmin-ah, go support Vernon with the blended beverages. He's swamped and no drinks are coming out on his end."

"Got it, boss." Seokmin saluted and quickly went over to Vernon who was, indeed, struggling with the blended drinks. At some point, the blended blue lemonade spilled, so while Vernon was cleaning it, Seokmin made the pending drinks quickly.

Wonwoo sent over the orders to the bar and Soonyoung looked at the screen before turning to Joshua, "Alright, you can do this. Try and do one drink and then when you're done, do two drinks at the same time."

Joshua nodded and began pulling the espresso shot before grabbing the appropriate cup size and pumping caramel syrup in it. By the time the espresso is done pulling, Soonyoung double checks if the shot is good. Thankfully, it is, and Joshua pours it in the cup. He gives it a little swirl before adding oatmilk (requested by the customer) and ice, topping it off with caramel drizzle and a lid. Joshua found comfort in the routine, memorizing recipes and workflows until they became second nature. Well, almost second nature. He still has a lot to memorize, and it's tricky when he's sort of forgetful.

He can never forget your beautiful smile, though. It's his only motivation to go to work.

"Joshua, mocha," Soonyoung called, sliding an empty cup toward him.

Joshua blinked, snapping out of his thoughts before nodding quickly. "Got it."

He pulled the espresso shot before reaching for the syrup, counting the pumps under his breath like he always did. One of the first things he learned about himself while working here was that he tended to forget things when he got overwhelmed. So he developed small habits—quiet counting, mental checklists, and occasionally double-checking the recipe sheet tucked neatly beneath the counter.

Soonyoung slid him two cups to work on to test his speed in making two drinks at the same time. Joshua did well. All he needed was to make sure the milk he was using was correct and if he pulled decaf (upon customer request).

"You're getting fast," Soonyoung remarked from the hand-off area, arms crossed after handing the drinks to their customers.

Joshua let out a small laugh as he grabbed a towel and cleaned the station, "Just trying to keep up."

"And I'm very proud." Soonyoung smiled happily.

Joshua felt a small sense of relief settle in his chest. Maybe this job wasn’t as terrifying as he thought it would be. Maybe he was finally getting used to it.

The café moved in its usual rhythm— orders being called, drinks sliding across counters, quiet conversations blending into white noise, low hum of the oven, the roar of the blender, the sound of ice being swirled inside the cup. Joshua liked this part of working in Handsome Coffee.

It wasn't peak hours, but the customers were going in and out which annoyed the baristas because they'd always look up every time someone entered and went out due to the door chimes ringing. After five minutes, everything was now calm. No one was leaving and no one was coming in. They all enjoyed the peace.

"Fucking finally! I was getting pissed at the door." Vernon exclaimed as he cleaned the blender.

"Me too, and I don't get angry easily. No wonder Seungkwannie is always annoyed." Seokmin said as he wiped their area clean.

"With or without the door chimes, he's always annoyed." Soonyoung chuckled. "True," said Wonwoo as he cleaned his glasses.

Just then, the door chimes were heard again followed by a hushed "god dammit" from Vernon and a groan from Wonwoo, who was already socially drained.

Joshua was grabbing the caramel sauce to refill it when he looked up out of habit as he heard the door. At first, he didn’t think much of it. Just another customer. Just another order, but then he saw you. You walked in with the same guy you were always with, the guy who isn't your twin, laughing softly at something he said as you approached the counter.

Joshua could've fainted then and there. He turned to Soonyoung and quickly said, "I think dishes need to be washed. You don't need me out here, right? Please let me stay at the back. Please, please, please."

"No, what's wrong with you?" Soonyoung asked. "Stay. You need to polish your skills."

Reluctantly, Joshua faced the espresso machine. He glanced at your direction as you and the guy spoke to Wonwoo about your orders. Then, he just froze. He completely froze. "Oh my god." Joshua muttered under his breath.

The guy you were with was very handsome. He was muscular and he seemed like a nice guy. His shirt was tight on him which made his muscular features more evident.

"Is this what a heart attack feels like?" He thought to himself. There's no way he could compete with someone he assumed was your boyfriend.

He forgot if he was holding anything.

He forgot what he was doing before you came in.

He forgot how to breathe normally.

He forgot where he was because in his mind, it was only you in the cafe.

"Joshua?" Soonyoung's voice snapped him back to reality. Joshua blinked rapidly, realizing he squeezed the caramel sauce too hard, causing it to spill out of the bottle and on his hand.

"Oh shit!" Joshua exclaimed. Just as he was cleaning, he overheard something that made his heart shatter into a million pieces.

"Baby, I dare you to pick something that isn't your usual." The guy said.

"Baby? Baby?!" Joshua thought. "Oh my god, he's her boyfriend?! I'm too late. I'm too late. So fucking stupid of you, Joshu-"

"Joshua! You got two drinks to make, man. C'mon!" Soonyoung clapped his hands in front of Joshua's face.

"Sorry, sorry!" Joshua quickly looked at the screen for your orders and quickly made the drinks: iced salted caramel latte and iced chocolate. Easy, right? To normal Joshua, sure. To a panicked-and-potentially-heartbroken-Joshua, absolutely not.

"Hey, man," A voice pulled him out of his thoughts. Joshua looked up and made eye contact with the guy. "I forgot to tell the cashier… Can you make the salted caramel latte less sweet and less ice?"

"S-Sure!"

"Thanks, man. Oh, and can you make it quick? My girl's in a hurry." The guy smiled sweetly before walking over to the hand-off area where Seokmin is conversing with you about their new strawless lid. Random, but informative.

"Stop!" Soonyoung exclaimed, taking the cups from Joshua's hands. "He asked for salted caramel, less sweet. He didn't ask for diabetes and she ordered the iced chocolate, not chocolate with no milk and no ice. What's wrong with you?"

Soonyoung quickly made the drinks and handed them to Seokmin, to which Seokmin called out, "For Seungcheol?"

The muscular guy you were with walked over to Seokmin as Joshua watched this flawless man grab the drinks and hand one over to you. His jaw hung open.

"Thanks, hon." You smiled at Seungcheol. Joshua didn't know if he wanted to faint because of your pretty smile or if he wanted to die because you called Seungcheol 'hon'. Both of you thanked Seokmin and left the cafe.

Joshua's eye was twitching. He didn't know if he was tired or not. One thing was for sure, though. He was heartbroken.

The next day, Joshua was still heartbroken. To make things worse, he's on the night shift. Jihoon is on day-off, so Wonwoo is at the back, counting the sales from the morning and afternoon shifts. It's 7:00PM, and it's only one hour before closing time when the cafe's foot traffic dies down.

Seungkwan sent bar orders from in-app orders, Joshua and Seokmin made the drinks, Jun was heating the pastries (while pre-closing bit by bit), and Mingyu was washing the dishes in the back. The night was slow, and when the app orders were picked up, the guys had nothing to do. Seungkwan, Joshua, Seokmin, and Jun were now joined by a semi-drenched Mingyu. All five men stood in a circle and began talking about their slowest shift ever. Wonwoo walked out of the back and said, "You can start pre-closing. I know some of you are slow, and I want to go home on time so I can stream." With that, Wonwoo walked back inside.

"I'll get the stuff that we can already put in the back, okay?" Seokmin nudged Joshua as he began getting empty whipped cream canisters, metal dishes with chemical solutions inside for their counter towels, empty pitchers, and more.

"Okay. I'll close half of the bar and blend stations." Joshua said as he walked over to the blended beverage station. There were four blenders, so he turned off two of them and began cleaning the two blenders. Seungkwan helped by replenishing everything needed on all stations. Jun had already (successfully) pre-closed his area, so he was sort of relaxing. Mingyu was at the back washing everything Seokmin brought in and prepping the stuff needed for the morning shift.

Just then, the door chime rang.

"Good evening, welcome to Handsome Coffee!" Seungkwan greeted cheerfully. Joshua looked up and saw you. It was weird because you were alone. No Seungcheol, no twin. Just you. It was a breath of fresh air.

"Hi, I just want the large iced chocolate and a slice of carrot cake, please." You smiled and gave your name and payment. Seungkwan sent over the bar order and Joshua quickly made the drink perfectly. He made sure to add chocolate powder on top. You didn't request any, but it was free, anyway. Unbeknownst to him, Seungkwan was watching with arms crossed.

Jun placed the tray with the carrot cake on the hand-off counter and opened his mouth to call your name out, but Joshua stopped him. "No!" Joshua exclaimed. Jun looked at him weirdly.

"I'll bring it over to her. I mean, uh, she seems busy." Joshua reasoned. Jun shrugged and left the hand-off area without saying anything before joining Mingyu in the back room. Joshua placed the chocolate drink on the tray, walked around the counter, and brought the tray over to where you were sitting.

Feeling a presence walking over to you, you looked up and quickly moved your things to make space for the tray. Joshua set it down and said, "Um, hi. Enjoy! I, uh, I added extra chocolate powder to your drink."

"Oh, I didn't ask for any, but how much is it?"

"It's free! Don't worry about it." Joshua smiled, and you smiled too. Gosh, he was a goner for your smile.

"Oh, well, thank you! I couldn't focus in my dorm because my stupid twin is on a group call, so I decided to come here and do a bit of homework. I'll be out of your hair in no time, I swear." You told him and he shook his head, "No, no, no! Take your time. I insist. I mean, we insist. We won't kick you out."

Joshua grinned and you thanked him. Both of you were staring at each other. For him, it was absolutely the best thing ever. For you, it was getting awkward.

"Um, is there anything else you'd like to tell me?" You awkwardly asked and Joshua cleared his throat, "Nothing else. Um, enjoy again!"

Joshua quickly walked back to his station, and you carried on doing your homework. Joshua quickly cleaned the stations along with Seokmin and by the time they were done, Joshua leaned over the hand-off area, rested his chin on his palm, and stared at you.

"How can someone look so ethereal?" Joshua thought. To him, you resembled a fairy. Soft features, beautiful hair, and tantalizing eyes.

Seungkwan walked past the bar, wiping his hands on his apron after wetting his hands. He slowed, then stopped. Joshua hadn't moved in at least thirty seconds, hunched over with his chin resting on his palm, and eyes locked in one direction. Curious, Seungkwan followed his line of sight.

Bullseye!

There you were seated near the window, alone, doing your homework, blissfully unaware that Joshua was gawking. You were hunched slightly over your notebook, pen-tapping softly against the page as you worked through a difficult part of your homework. Your drink, three-fourths full, sat away from your papers, untouched for the moment as it condensed.

He knew something was up when Joshua wouldn't let Jun call out your name. Seungkwan blinked once. Then twice. Slowly, very slowly, his head turned back toward Joshua, still unmoving, still leaning against the counter like the world had paused just for him. Joshua had a tiny smile on his face as he watched you, chin resting on his palm, eyes soft, and completely, painfully focused. His gears were turning, then Seungkwan's eyebrows shot up.

"No way!" Seungkwan thought. He quickly glanced at you, then at Joshua, then back at you, and back at Joshua again. He repeated the pattern three times before sucked in a quiet breath, pressing his lips together, to keep whatever noise was threatening to escape.

"Oh. Oh, this is bad. This is very bad. Well, not bad-bad," Seungkwan thought as he looked up at the ceiling before smirking to himself and looking at Joshua again. "But juicy-bad."

Seungkwan felt like he was going through some kind of heavenly change. It's other-worldly, even! Joshua had never mentioned any girl since they met, but this? THIS IS GOLD. Seungkwan felt like he was transforming into Sailor Moon.

The information made his chest feel tight because there was suddenly something juicy inside his brain and absolutely no one to tell. Not yet, at least.

Seungkwan shifted his weight from one foot to another, fingers twitching at his sides. Should he stand still? Should he walk around? Should he pretend to check the app for new orders? He wasn't sure.

He looked around quickly; once toward the counter, once toward the back, once toward the entrance, and once toward the security camera. He made sure no one else had noticed before him because if someone else had noticed first? It'd be absolutely-positively-unacceptable! He's the gossip king in this establishment and it should remain that way. Someone else finding out before him would ruin his image (not really, but he's very dramatic).

This discovery was his alone. This discovery was his baby.

His eyes snapped back to Joshua who was still staring, still blinking slowly, and still quiet. Seungkwan swallowed hard, pressing his hand flat against his chest as if that would calm the sudden rush of energy buzzing under his skin.

"Oh my god," Seungkwan thought, holding back a squeal, "Joshua has a crush. Joshua from LA. Joshua-who-forgets-recipes-when-nervous. Joshua fucking Hong has a big, fat crush on iced chocolate drinker-resident-baby girl regular."

Seungkwan sucked in another quiet breath and immediately turned away before Joshua could catch him looking.

Abort eye contact. Abort mission. DO NOT get caught.

He started walking again, a little too fast, then slowed abruptly, forcing himself to look normal as he passed the counter.

"Be normal, be normal, be normal." Seungkwan quietly chanted to himself. His whole body tensed when Joshua shifted slightly, and Seungkwan nearly jumped out of his skin before pretending to adjust his apron.

"Don't look. Don't look. Don't-" He looked at Joshua again to see if he noticed. Thankfully, he didn't. Joshua was still busy staring, still busy being a goner.

Seungkwan bit the inside of his cheek to stop himself from making a sound. This information was too big. This is info overload. His brain can only handle so much info. This was clearly too big to keep to himself. Too dangerous to sit on.

His gaze darted across the cafe. He searched and scanned like how Eliza Schuyler was searching and scanning for answers. He was looking for someone. Not just anyone, oh, no. He needed someone reliable, someone who would understand the gravity of the situation. Someone who-

Seungkwan watched Seokmin enter the production area with whipped cream canisters, ready to be used tomorrow morning. Seokmin neatly put them on the counter before squatting down to check if the fridge is clean.

Seungkwan inhaled sharply through his nose, shoulders tightening as he locked onto his target like a predator spotting prey. He wiped his sweaty palms against his apron, took one steadying breath, then began moving quickly, but careful because this? This was classified information, and he needed to tell someone before he combusted.

Seokmin was still squatting in front of the fridge, humming to himself, as he arranged the items in it. Seungkwan approached him like a thief in the night. He crouched down beside Seokmin so suddenly that Seokmin nearly fell over.

"YA-!" Seokmin was cut-off by Seungkwan's hand covering his mouth. "Shh!" Seungkwan hissed before pulling both of them up and leading them to the pastry area.

He removed his hand from Seokmin's mouth and Seokmin could only blink at him. "Why?" Seokmin could only ask. Seungkwan was acting weirder than usual.

Seungkwan glanced over Seokmin's shoulder and said, "Don't look now."

"…Don't look at what, exactly?" Seokmin asked. By nature, Seokmin wanted to look at whatever it was Seungkwan said not to look at. As his head was about to turn, Seungkwan held his face in place.

"I said, don't look now." Seungkwan said in a low voice.

"You're scaring me." Seokmin whispered. Seungkwan swallowed hard as his hands landed on Seokmin's shoulders. His eyes darted toward Joshua, and then at you. At the same time, you sneezed. Joshua thought it was the cutest thing ever. He quietly chuckled to himself.

Seungkwan looked at Seokmin and breathed, "Joshua…"

Seokmin blinked, "What about him?"

Seungkwan sucked in a quiet breath, his shoulders rising like he was about to deliver breaking news on national television. "Joshua," he whispered, voice trembling with carely-contained excitement, "has a crush."

Seokmin's eyes widened as his entire body froze. "…No." He whispered in disbelief.

Seungkwan nodded aggressively, "Yes."

"No."

"Yes." Seungkwan nodded faster.

Seokmin scrunched his eyebrows and covered his mouth as it hung open, "On who?"

This time, Seungkwan allowed a shit-eating grin to grace his lovely face, "Iced chocolate drinker resident baby girl."

If Seokmin's mouth was open before, it was now on the floor. Sensing that Seokmin was about to react loudly, Seungkwan whispered, "DON'T expose him."

Seokmin nodded frantically and crossed his heart. The two men stared at each other before Seokmin said, "You're lying."

"I'm not lying."

"You're joking, then."

"I'm not joking."

Not able to contain himself any longer, Seokmin turned his head to look at Joshua. "I said don't look!" Seungkwan hissed, but it was too late. Seokmin was now looking at the lovesick idiot that was Joshua Hong. Seokmin looked back at Seungkwan and said, "Oh my god."

"I told you so." Seungkwan said.

"You weren't lying."

"No, I was not."

"You weren't joking."

"No, I was not. When have I ever joked about gossip?" Seungkwan crossed his arms.

"What do we do?" Seokmin asked.

"Absolutely nothing. I'll tell you when I have plans. I'll think about it at home. I didn't graduate college early for nothing, you know." Seungkwan answered.

"Sometimes, I forget that you graduated ahead of us." Seokmin shook his head.

Seungkwan rolled his eyes, "Don't hate me, 'cause you ain't me."

"You deserve a raise for this discovery!" Seokmin said playfully to which Seungkwan agreed.

CHAPTER 3: NO ONE MOURNS THE WICKED? NO. NO ONE MOURNS THE LOVESICK, ESPECIALLY NOT CHOI SEUNGCHEOL

"Yes, the wind blows a little bit colder, and we're all getting older, and the clouds are moving on with every autumn breeze."

The song playing in Choi Seungcheol's headphones was indeed a stark contrast to his appearance. The man was very much aware of how he looks. Tall, fair-skinned, with thick brows, an intimidating stare, pink lips, broad shoulders, and a dorito-like build, and dark-toned, oversized clothes to pair with scary-looking black boots.

Screw everyone, right? He loves Disney. He loves the songs, the movies, and he planned on working very hard to go to Disneyland. It's his dream. To everyone else, it seemed so silly. To him, it was his life's mission to give himself a great life to go to every Disneyland in the world. So, forgive him if he's enjoying Princess Anna's voice to kickstart his Monday.

After all, the song parallels his life. It's a new academic year, and he's now a third year college student taking up BS Business Administration Major in Marketing Management. Humming along to "Some Things Never Change", Seungcheol decided it was best to go to Handsome Coffee to start his day.

The door chimed as he entered, followed by a cheerful greeting from Seungkwan. He was somewhat familiar with the staff at his favorite coffee shop.

"Hi, there!" Seungcheol smiled. "Great weather we're having, right?"

"Absolutely! How's the new academic year treating you so far?" Seungkwan asked politely. He was always blessed with communication skills. Those skills alone granted him a bonus from none other than Kim Seokjin himself.

"Oh, it's been quite stressful. I know I'll rise above it, though." Seungcheol chuckled. "Anyway, I don't want to keep you with my boring anecdotes. I'll just have a large iced Americano with two packs of Stevia."

"Oh? Trying something different, are we?" Seungkwan smiled as he punched Seungcheol's order. Seokmin stared at Seungcheol as he gave money to Seungkwan.

"Joshua's competition is a grade-A hunk! Oh, he's already losing. Poor Joshua." Seokmin thought to himself as he shook his head.

"Do I have something on my face?" A voice pulled Seokmin out of his thoughts. He looked up and saw Seungcheol looking at him.

"Oh, no! Nothing is, uh, on your face. You're just, um, very-" Seokmin panicked, earning a painful nudge from Seungkwan.

"Don't mind him. He just graduated high school. He's now a freshman student here." Seungkwan smiled before eyeing Seokmin.

"Oh! Congratulations! What course are you taking?" Seungcheol asked, now interested in the weird barista.

"Music. Bachelor of Arts in Music." Seokmin answered. "Which means I can sing very well."

"Oh my god, he didn't ask that." Seungkwan muttered under his breath. Who could blame Seokmin? He was nervous.

"But now, there's nowhere to hide, since you pushed my love asiiiide! I'm out of my head, hopelessly devoted to youuuu! Hopelessly devoted to you~" Seokmin sang beautifully. 

Seungkwan gave him a look. Jun clapped and cheered from his post. Jihoon watched from the back room's doorway with arms crossed. Minghao's jaw dropped. Seungcheol was too stunned to speak.

"That was... wow! Best of luck to your endeavours in music." Seungcheol smiled. "I'll, uh, wait for my drink over there. Excuse me." 

Seungcheol walked over to the hand-off area and went on his phone. Seungkwan gave Seokmin a look, "Really?"

"I was nervous!"

"You're just like Joshua. Just be cool! Don't be obvious." Seungkwan hissed before going back to the counter. Seokmin began making his drink and handed it over to Seungcheol who smiled, thanked him, and left.

As soon as he left Handsome Coffee, Seungcheol was greeted by the cool air. He took a sip of his iced Americano and hummed in approval.

"It seems the barista isn't only a talented singer. He's also a talented barista." Seungcheol said to himself.

"Who ya talkin' to?" A voice said next to him, earning a tiny jump from him. He looked to his side, and there stood his best frenemy, Yoon Jeonghan, who had a shit-eating grin after being satisfied in giving Seungcheol a fright.

"Don't do that! Jesus." Seungcheol clutched his chest before walking, with Jeonghan matching his stride.

"Where's my twin?" Jeonghan asked. "She left early."

"How am I supposed to know? I'm not her keeper." Seungcheol said as he changed the song. No hate to Pocahontas, but he just didn't feel like listening to Colors of the Wind because he might cry, and crying in front of the Yoon Jeonghan would be a crime and he intends to be out of Jeonghan Jail forever.

Jeonghan took a peek at his friend's phone and snorted, "Really? 'Part of Your World'?"

"What? It's a classic!" Seungcheol exclaimed. Jeonghan nodded, "I know it is. Talk to me when you've listened to the Encanto soundtrack already."

"You just want to be Isabela Madrigal." Seungcheol eyed Jeonghan suspiciously.

"Absolutely! We both have great hair, both pretty, both soft-spoken, both great dressers, and we're both the older siblings. Convince me that I'm not her, and I'll shave my hair off." Jeonghan smirked to himself as he winked at a group of girls. Seungcheol rolled his eyes and continued walking.

Jeonghan quickly stood in front of him, blocking his way, "Where's my twin?"

"I told you, I don't know!"

"Well, she left early and she usually stays with you if she's not with me. So, where is she? Did you commit murder? I was just joking about wanting to strangle her because she ate my muffin that one time, but I didn't mean it, Choi Seungcheol!"

"Okay, whoa! Do I look like I'm capable of murder?!" Seungcheol shrieked.

Jeonghan eyed him up and down before nodding, "You seem like the type."

"I take offense."

"You should. I'm the best Communication Arts student on this campus, and I intend to use my degree to expose you!" Jeonghan pointed at him.

If Jeonghan didn't look so pretty with his bangs, Seungcheol would've given him an uppercut by now.

"I told you, I didn't see her. And stop overreacting! She probably hung out at a friend's dorm or something."

"I love my twin, but she has no friends. She only has you and me." Jeonghan said, looking at his nails as they began walking again.

Just then, they bump into someone causing Seungcheol to spill coffee all over the unknown victim.

"Oh, I'm so sorry!" Seungcheol apologized. "Oh, I ruined your shirt. I feel terrible. Wait a second, you look familiar. Do I know you?"

"I don't think so." Joshua panicked. "I have to go!"

"Wait!" Jeonghan stopped him, "I know you. I know you very, very well."

"You do?" Joshua gulped as sweat began to form on his forehead.

"Mhm," Jeonghan nodded with crossed arms. "You were in one of my general subjects last year! John? Joseph? Jobe? James?"

"Geez, name all of the people in the Bible, will you?" Seungcheol huffed.

"He had a biblical name!" Jeonghan exclaimed.

"It's Joshua." Joshua said in a quiet voice. Seungcheol and Jeonghan looked at him. "I'm gonna need you to speak up, hon." Jeonghan said.

"It's, um, Joshua. My name's Joshua." Joshua said.

"How is that a biblical name?"

"Ahh, yes. The church boy from LA! I remember you now."

Seungcheol and Jeonghan said at the same time. They looked at each other and chuckled lightly.

"Please don't hurt me." Joshua said in a hushed voice.

"Hurt you? I'm too delicate to hurt anyone." Jeonghan scoffed. "Worry about him." Jeonghan cocked his head to the side.

"Me?! What's wrong with me? I couldn't hurt a fly." Seungcheol whined.

Jeonghan snickered, "Tell that to your outfit."

Seungcheol looked down at his clothes and groaned. If things were different, Joshua would've chuckled, but this was his reality now. He can't possibly chuckle, nope. Not when he's in front of his crush's boyfriend. His crush's muscular boyfriend. He can't compete with that.

"Anyway, Josh, may I call you Josh? Sorry about your outfit. I'll make it up to you when I see you again." Seungcheol said.

"No worries!" Joshua began to walk away, but stopped himself. He turned around and said, "For the record, Joshua's a biblical name because Joshua was Moses' aide. He's very loyal, and when Moses died, he took over. So, um, yeah... just thought you should know since, uh, you asked how 'Joshua' is a biblical name. Anyway, bye!"

The two men watched as Joshua walked away with confusion written all over their faces. "That guy is so awkward." Jeonghan shook his head. "He should relax."

"HANDSOME COFFEE!" Seungcheol grinned as Jeonghan eyed him weirdly. "He's a barista from Handsome Coffee! That's where I know him." Jeonghan rolled his eyes, crossed his arms, and began walking with Seungcheol trailing beside him. 

Joshua felt like he made a fool out of himself in front of your extremely hot boyfriend. He shoved his hands in his pockets and kicked a pebble in frustration. Now he felt like a complete loser. Just as he was wallowing in his sadness, you breezed right past him k-drama style. Everything was in slow motion for him. He paused and watched you run to Seungcheol and Jeonghan.

"Hey, wait up!" You said, loud enough for Seungcheol and Jeonghan to hear. They turned their heads and stopped walking when they saw you.

"Oh, finally! Your twin was about to kill me!" Seungcheol said, resting one hand on his hip.

"Where HAVE you been?! I've been looking all over for you! I've been through the mud and the muck, high and low, through the jungle, in the Amazon rainforest, and in mom and dad's attic just looking for you!" Jeonghan huffed and stomped one leg.

"Such a drama queen." You sighed and ruffled your twin's hair when you finally caught up to them, not noticing Joshua's stare. You know who did notice? Choi Seungcheol.

Seungcheol looked at the bright-eyed Joshua who was too busy staring at you. He was too busy giving Joshua a look, not knowing you and Jeonghan started walking away.

"Cheol, you coming?" Jeonghan called out. Seungcheol glanced at him and nodded, "Yeah!"

"Oh, Joshua likes her, and he likes her A LOT." Seungcheol thought to himself.

-

Choi Seungcheol was very bored. He was physically in class, but he was bored. He stared at the professor with a bored expression. He rested chin on his palm as his mind began to wander on Joshua or 'Joshua the church boy from LA' as Jeonghan calls him.

Based on what he saw, it was clear to him that Joshua liked you. Now that he really thought about it, he'd always notice Joshua doing the extra mile for you, but you didn't notice.

"Oh, this is a lot of whipped cream, but I absolutely love it!" You grinned as Joshua handed you the iced chocolate drink. "I even added, uh, extra chocolate powder." Joshua said nervously as he wiped his hands on his apron. "How much will I pay for the additionals?" Seungcheol asked, pulling out his wallet. "Um, no! No charge at all. It's totally free. It's fine. You're fine, so, so fine. I MEAN NOT IN A 'YOU'RE SO HOT' KIND OF WAY. Not that you AREN'T hot, but, um, anyway, enjoy." Joshua quickly ran to the back room. "Well, that was weird." You chuckled and sipped your drink. "Let's go, hon."

If Seungcheol was right about his guess, Joshua has probably liked you for a long time now. Judging by his overall, quick scan on Joshua, he was able to conclude that he's a genuine guy. He's a guy he could trust if he or Jeonghan aren't around to help you. Besides, he thought you two would look cute together.

He quickly grabbed his pen and opened the back of his notebook to start writing his crazy idea.

CHOI SEUNGCHEOL'S PLANS: 1. Make Joshua jealous 2. Say and do things to make Joshua spiral 3. DON'T TELL HANNIE 4. Confront Joshua 5. Be Joshua's wingman

"Poor guy probably thinks Y/N and I are dating." Seungcheol chuckled to himself. To Seungcheol, this was very interesting. The last interesting thing that happened in his life was when his ex-girlfriend totally picked a fight with you on a random Saturday at the mall. Jeonghan was with you at that time and both boys didn't know what to do, but stared. It wasn't until you yelled, "Help me!" that they sprung into action. Seungcheol broke up with the girl then and there because no one treats his baby girl like that. Okay, that was cringey, but you're his and Jeonghan's baby.

You were born minutes after Jeonghan, and you had a few complications which actually made you a bit weaker than other kids, but you were fine. Seeing Joshua made Seungcheol believe that he could look after you.

Seungcheol tapped the end of his pen against the paper, lips slowly curling into a grin as he glanced back at his list, eyes scanning the messy bullet points he had scribbled in the back of his notebook.

CHOI SEUNGCHEOL'S PLANS: 1. Make Joshua jealous 2. Say and do things to make Joshua spiral 3. DON'T TELL HANNIE 4. Confront Joshua 5. Be Joshua's wingman

He underlined Number 1 twice. Not because he was evil. Not because he wanted to make Joshua miserable, but because Joshua's reactions were HILARIOUS. And honestly, harmless fun never hurt anybody. Right?

A slow grin spread across his face as he leaned back in his chair, completely ignoring whatever lecture his professor was rambling about. All he had to do was act a little closer to you than usual. Maybe sit beside you more, sling an arm around your shoulders, call you something ridiculous like "baby" just to see Joshua short-circuit in real time. To make things more in his favor, cute nicknames are normal in your friendship and it's yours and Jeonghan's habit to call everyone "hon".

Seungcheol pressed his lips together to stop himself from laughing out loud. Yeah, this was going to be fun. Very fun. While he's busy doing the first thing on his list, he'd observe Joshua at the same time. After all, a good strategist studied his subjects very well.

For this study, Joshua was his subject and his subject isn't subtle at all. Over the course of his short time observing how Joshua acted around you, plus the k-drama-like gaze he saw yesterday, Seungcheol realized that Joshua was a goner. A lovesick idiot whose eyes followed you like a lost puppy, whose hands trembled whenever he handed over your drink, whose ears would turn pink every time you'd speak to him.

Seungcheol leaned forward slightly, resting his chin on his palm again. His boredom? Gone. It was now replaced with something far more interesting—anticipation. After all, tomorrow's a new day and he already knew exactly where you three would be; Handsome Coffee.

And tomorrow, the experiment will begin.

CHAPTER 4: SEUNGCHEOL CALLS THE SHOTS, JOSHUA SCREWS UP THE SHOTS, AND HANNIE NEEDS A SHOT OF SUGAR BEFORE HE COLLAPSES

"Welcome to Handsome Coffee!" Seokmin greeted cheerfully with a wave.

"Ugh, I regret this already." Seungkwan moped. Jun took a (well-deserved) vacation leave and went back to China for a while, so Seungkwan manned the pastry area today and left the cashier operations to the next best option to take his place (sometimes): Lee Seokmin.

Seungkwan crossed his arms as he watched Seokmin take orders like a pro. Was he jealous? No. He was hired way before Seokmin, anyway. Was he upset? No, he's a professional through and through.

Okay, maybe he was a teeny tiny bit jealous. Interacting with customers is his favorite part of the job. How the hell can he interact with anyone from the pastry section? All he can do all day is fix the display, bake, and reheat. It was boring! No offense to Jun, of course. I'm sure he had fun doing all this pastry stuff.

Seungkwan just found it... a little bit unfair. Mingyu got to interact with customers when he bussed tables. Soonyoung got to talk to customers for a bit while making drinks along with Joshua. Vernon got to speak to them at hand-off. He wanted that too, but Seokmin wasn't trained for baking yet. Besides, Jun submitted his name to Jihoon prior to leaving.

"Damn you, Wen Junhui." Seungkwan thought. "I don't mean it. Please bring me back tangerines."

Just as Seungkwan sighed for the nth time that day, he turned to the door. It seemed to never close as customers always filed in. He didn't know Kim Seokjin that well, and they only met a handful of times when he came to visit, but Seungkwan was sure that with all the money their branch was earning, Kim Seokjin could open a third branch somewhere.

The line was pretty long, so everyone was busy. Except for Seungkwan. No one really ordered pastries when it's peak and if they did, Seungkwan did his job quickly. After all, it was easy to reheat pastries. He folded his arms on top of the pastry case and rested his chin on top of his hands. Just then, the girl of Joshua's dreams entered with two guys. Seungkwan's eyes widened and he turned to Seokmin, who was busy taking customers' orders back to back. He turned to you, then at Seokmin, back at you, then at Joshua (who was doing his best getting orders out quickly with Soonyoung getting quicker and quicker in making drinks which was pretty intimidating), then back at Seokmin, and then back at you.

He gulped and put his hands on the sides of his head, tugging his hair a little bit. Minghao left the back room while putting his apron on to join the production area. His shift just started. He quickly supported Vernon in his area because he was on his own which meant Minghao got to do hand-off duty too.

"Another person to be jealous of." Seungkwan thought, but it's not about his jealousy right now. It's about Joshua and his crush which means his groundbreaking discovery can now be seen in real time. But how can he get Seokmin's attention? 

Seungkwan thought real hard about it. Then his thinking got cut short because Seokmin sent over several pastry orders.

"Ah, shit." Seungkwan muttered under his breath. He read through the pastry orders quickly and prepared them in fast movements.

“Wow, look at Kwannie go! Think you can do it as quickly as him, Josh? Try it. Don’t let the orders swallow you whole.” Soonyoung said to Joshua as he dumped half-made drinks by his side. The drinks were almost complete, they just needed ice.

Seungkwan paid them no mind. He was DESPERATE to get these orders out quickly. Of course, he had to make sure everything was complete before placing it on the hand-off area. After all, he didn’t want to keep going back and forth for every request. When he was done, he looked up and saw that your little group was nearing the counter.

Seungkwan looked at Seokmin with daggers. He needed Seokmin to look ASAP. Pretending to get paper towels from the cabinet under the counter, Seungkwan cleared his throat loudly. When Seungkwan looked up to see that Seokmin was still busy talking, he had to pull out the big guns a.k.a pretending to mentor Seokmin while on the counter.

Seungkwan quickly stood up and smiled at the customer. He glanced at Seokmin’s screen and ‘tsked’, causing Seokmin to stop talking to look at him.

“Double check before you send the order. We both know Soonyoung will get mad if he makes the wrong drink.” Seungkwan said tauntingly, knowing that Seokmin gets nervous easily. As Seokmin was double checking, Seungkwan leaned over and whispered in his ear while pretending to point at the screen.

“Iced-chocolate-drinker-resident-baby-girl is back with the two guys and they’re almost near.” He whispered quickly. Luckily, Seokmin was able to get it as he looked up and saw your group laughing about something. He turned to Seungkwan in a panicked state because if Joshua freezes in front of Soonyoung AGAIN, it’ll be bad for his barista career.

Then, Seokmin slowly smiled. Once he was done with his current transaction, he turned to Joshua, who was taking a breather, and smiled the “I-know-something-you-don’t” smile which weirded Joshua out when they made eye contact, but shrugged it off.

Seungkwan slapped Seokmin’s arm and shook his head, “Don’t! Don’t look at him. Just focus.”

After transacting another customer, it was finally your turn.

“Standing around made me very tired. I’ll go find us a seat. You know what I want, right?” Jeonghan said with crossed arms before he left to find a seat on the ground floor. He hated the mezzanine.

You and Seungcheol approached the counter with bright smiles. Seungkwan’s eyes were wide, Seokmin bit his lip from laughing, and Seungcheol was waiting for this moment. “Baby, what’s Hannie’s usual again?” Seungcheol asked, making sure to emphasize ‘baby’.

Hearing the familiar voice, Joshua quickly looked up and froze. His girl, you, were standing right there with him. Seungcheol, through his peripheral vision, noticed Joshua’s spiral.

“Bingo.” Seungcheol thought to himself as he smiled at Seokmin. For extra measure to make Joshua spiral, he put his arm around you and pulled you close. Seeing this, Joshua went stiff.

“Hannie mentioned he didn’t want an iced Americano today, said he needed sugar in his system.” You said in a hushed voice as you looked up at him. Seungcheol looked at you and nodded, “Okay, so what’ll he get?”

“The iced blended strawberry lemonade.” You answered with a cute smile. Seungkwan and Seokmin watched the whole thing and they had to admit, you guys were kinda cute. But they were rooting for their no.1 LA boy.

“Okay, tell the nice cashier what you and Hannie are getting.” Seungcheol said as he pushed some hair out of your face. Joshua wanted the ground to swallow him whole. He couldn’t breathe. He couldn’t think. He was just… frozen. He was the standing guy emoji.

Seokmin punched your orders as you turned to Seungcheol, “What’re you getting, hon?”

“I’m getting the sea salt latte for a change. Make it large and make it less sweet.” Seungcheol smiled at Seokmin. Recognizing him, Seungcheol asked, “Hey, how’s music coming along?”

Joshua looked at Seokmin whose eyes were wide, “Um…”

“You know each other?” You furrowed your brows.

“Not really.” Seungcheol chuckled. “He sang for everyone at the cafe yesterday. Rad voice.”

“T-Thanks!” Seokmin said nervously. Seungcheol paid for the drinks and slid his hand from your arm to your lower back to guide you to the hand-off area.

Joshua was a mess at this point. He knew that Soonyoung was frustrated at him and he knew he’d get an earful later. He kept dropping things, spilling the milk, and would forget how many times he pumped the syrup.

Just as he spilled the milk again, Soonyoung sighed, “Just throw away the whole milk, will you?”

“Sorry, sorry!” Joshua said as he quickly wiped down the counter. Of course, Seungcheol saw everything and because he’s a menace, Seungcheol smirked to himself and said, “Hey! Joshua, right?”

Joshua nearly dropped the whole drink. Thank god he was able to compose himself before putting it on the hand-off area. “Yes. Yup, that’s me. Hi!” Joshua rambled.

“Are you okay? You look… nervous. Did something happen?” Seungcheol asked with the best look of concern on his face. He knew Joshua wasn’t fine at all.

“I’m okay!” Joshua exclaimed as he handed Seungcheol a tray of their drinks.

“Baby, go ahead and get your drink. I’ll get mine and Hannie’s.” Seungcheol said sweetly. You smiled at him and got your drink from the tray Joshua was holding. Both men watched as you took a sip of your drink and hummed in approval.

“It’s so good.” You raved.

“But you always get this drink!” Seungcheol laughed, causing you to laugh too. Oh, Joshua wanted to die right then and there. He didn’t know if he was jealous of Seungcheol or happy that you liked how he made your drink.

“Yah, hurry up!” Jeonghan called from the table nearby with his legs crossed and hands resting on the table.

“Well, that’s our cue.” You said before looking back at Joshua with a smile, “Thanks again!”

“Thanks, Josh. See ya around.” Seungcheol smirked before walking towards Jeonghan with you.

Joshua, out of habit, watched you and Seungcheol leave. Obviously, Seungcheol knew that Joshua was watching. To add another layer of harmless fun, Seungcheol held the tray with one hand and placed his other hand on your lower back to guide you through the cafe. Joshua noticed. He always did.

Joshua gulped and looked down to continue working because if he didn’t, he knew Soonyoung would have his head. His chest felt tight, his hands were trembling, sweat was forming on his forehead, and he forgot how to make the sea salt foam caramel latte. Soonyoung would kill him for real now.

“Pull s-shot,” Joshua muttered to himself as he shakily pulled the espresso shots, “Four pumps of caramel syrup.” Joshua pumped four times then stopped, “Or was it five? Shit.”

The espresso shots were done. Joshua quickly poured it into the cup. Then he added milk and ice. As he grabbed the lid, Soonyoung stopped him, “Yah, what drink is that?”

“S-Sea salt f-foam caramel latte.” Joshua stuttered. Soonyoung nodded, “And where exactly is the sea salt foam?”

Joshua looked at the drink he was holding and said, “Shit. Um…” He grabbed a clean spoon and scooped some of the ice out of the cup. Soonyoung shook his head and continued working. Joshua quickly placed the drink on the counter before bending down to get the whipping cream from the fridge. He placed the whipping cream down in a hurry causing the drink he made to spill.

“Oh my god, Joshua! Focus!” Soonyoung said. He was frustrated. Joshua felt so bad.

There were no customers in line now, so all the pressure was in production now. Seokmin and Seungkwan looked at each other while everyone was busy. They bit their lips from laughing. They both understood that Joshua was currently spiraling and it was hilarious because he was usually so put together. It’s just funny because all it took was you to turn him into a nervous wreck. 

You and Seungcheol finally joined an annoyed Jeonghan. “Yah, I was waiting for a long time! How hard is it to order? Jesus.” Jeonghan complained.

Seungcheol set the tray down and Jeonghan quickly grabbed his drink. You and Seungcheol watched as he took a sip and he made a face. “What’s wrong?” You asked softly with a hint of amusement. Your twin really was something.

“It lacks sweetness. I might die over here with no sugar in my body!” Jeonghan sighed exasperatedly.

“You can raise your sugar if you eat a lot of rice.” Seungcheol suggested.

“That’s different. I want SUGAR as in, like, something sweet.” Jeonghan sighed. “This drink is sweet, but not sweet enough.”

“Do you want to make it sweeter?” You asked him. Just then, Seungcheol had a bright idea to make Joshua spiral even more.

“I don’t want to be a burden to the baristas-”

“It’s fine. Adding sugar is free. Who knows? They might remake it too.” Seungcheol suggested, earning an impressed nod from Jeonghan.

“Alright. I’ll ask them.” Jeonghan said as he started to get up. “No, you can sit. Let Y/Nie ask.” Seungcheol said.

“Why me?” You pouted.

“Yeah, why her? It’s my drink.” Jeonghan said, crossing his arms. Seungcheol turned to you and said, “Because, baby, you’re the youngest in this table.”

“We were all born the same year, and Hannie and I have the same birthday.” You frowned.

“I’m older by, like, five minutes. That counts. Run along, Y/Nie. I’ll buy you dinner tonight.” Jeonghan said as he handed his drink to you.

Just as Joshua thought he could breathe, you walk right up to him at the hand-off area. His breath hitched once more and he swore he was about to cry. He was so overwhelmed.

“Hi, there! It’s me again.” You chuckled lightly.

“God, thanks for blessing my eyesight.” Joshua thought. “Hi! Is, um, what happened?” Joshua asked. “Wow. Real smooth, Shua. Real smooth. What a stupid question.” Joshua mentally facepalmed.

“I’m so sorry about this, but Hannie over there wasn’t satisfied with his drink. He said it wasn’t sweet enough. Is there something you could do…” You read his nametag, “...Joshua?”

His brain, figuratively, exploded. His heart was beating very fast. He could basically hear his classmate, Changbin, screaming, “LISTEN TO MY HEARTEU BEATEU!~” Joshua could hear fireworks. Joshua could get lost in your eyes and he wouldn’t mind. In fact, he’d burn the maps just to remain lost in your eyes.

“Um, hello?” You waved a hand in front of him and he snapped out of it. “Sorry! Um, yeah, I-I can fix it.” Joshua said.

You had doubts, though. The man didn’t look fine at all. He was sweaty, pale, and he looked like he was about to faint. “Um, I don’t doubt your skills, Joshua. I’m sure you’re a good barista, but is there anyone else available to make the drink? You look… sick. No offense.”

“None taken.” Joshua said, wiping the sweat from his forehead with the back of his hand. “Um… what drink is it?”

“Uh, blended strawberry lemonade.” You smiled.

“Okay.” Joshua said as he grabbed the drink from you and asked Vernon to remake the drink while pointing at you. Vernon looked over and waved at you.

“Do you know her?” Joshua panicked. 

“No.” Vernon snorted. “I’ll remake the drink. Go entertain her.”

Joshua got out of his hair and walked back to you. “Vernon’s making the drink… again. I hope, um, it’ll be enough for uh-”

“Hannie.”

“Yeah, him.”

You both stared at each other awkwardly, so you just looked around, admiring the design of the place. Joshua just looked at you, but he didn’t want to be creepy, so he looked for something to do.

Seungcheol usually paid attention, but he was getting on Jeonghan’s nerves because he kept looking over at yours and Joshua’s direction. Jeonghan let it slide at first, but he was starting to be suspicious. “Is Cheollie in love with Y/Nie?” Jeonghan thought. “Oh, hell no. Not on my watch.”

“So she’s totally being mean and I said- Cheollie, are you even listening?” Jeonghan raised a brow at him. Seungcheol quickly looked at him and nodded.

Jeonghan squinted, “I’m not dumb. Why do you keep looking over there?”

Seungcheol froze for half a second, but he instantly brushed it off with a shrug, “Nothing interesting.”

“Nothing interesting?” Jeonghan’s brows were now raised and he scoffed, “I don’t believe you because if it really wasn’t interesting, you’d only look once. You, my friend, have been looking over your shoulder for a few times now. I’m surprised you haven’t broken your neck.”

Seungcheol’s cheeks turned pink. He was caught, but he won’t let himself falter. “Maybe something interesting happened, no?” Seungcheol said.

“Yeah, you’re not slick and I’ll find out.” Jeonghan smirked lightly. “I always find out, Choi Seungcheol.”

You and Joshua remained in silence. “Thanks again for making my drink. It was good.” You said with a tight-lipped smile.

“No problem. I had fun making it.” Joshua replied. “Geez, Vernon. How long does it take to make the fucking drink?” Joshua thought.

Vernon joined Joshua at the hand-off area, “Here you go. Sorry it took so long.” He left as quickly as he came. You reached for the drink and thanked Joshua, “Thanks again and give my thanks to the guy who remade Hannie’s drink.”

“Okay.” Joshua said in a small voice as he watched you walk away. Unbeknownst to him, Seungkwan and Seokmin were internally freaking out. Soonyoung looked at both of them and shook his head, “Why is everyone so weird today?” He muttered under his breath.

You walked back to the table with Jeonghan’s drink. Jeonghan looked like an excited puppy when he saw the remade drink. It looked even prettier than the previous one. Jeonghan immediately grabbed it from you, took a sip, and his face brightened instantly.

He let out a dramatic sigh, “Finally! Sugar!”

Seungcheol watched you sit, but his eyes quickly darted to Joshua across the cafe. As usual, Joshua was watching again before he went back to work even though he was barely functioning. His movements were slower, his eyes were unfocused, his demeanor was quiet, and he sent occasional glances toward your table. Being a senior barista, Soonyoung noticed Joshua’s behavior and he was tired of it.

Soonyoung put his hands on his hips and gave Joshua a tired look as he knocked over the salted caramel syrup. “Shua, what’s wrong with you today? Just tell me if you’re tired. We can send you home. It’s fine, really.” Soonyoung sighed. He’d rather send Joshua home than have him around and create a mess. Wonwoo and Jihoon were starting to wonder about the amount of supplies they were losing. Soonyoung didn’t tell them it was because of Joshua’s accidents, of course.

You, Seungcheol, and Jeonghan fell into conversation about random stuff as usual. Being the guy that he is, Jeonghan took out his mini fan and turned it on. Just as he sat comfortably, he glanced at Seungcheol who was busy looking between you and the barista at the counter. It was subtle, but not too subtle. Jeonghan narrowed his eyes and began observing the barista Seungcheol was looking at. That’s when he noticed the barista staring at you with love in his eyes. Jeonghan looked at you and then back at the barista. He raised his brows in realization, “The barista likes Y/Nie!”

Jeonghan smirked to himself before he paid attention to your funny anecdote. Meanwhile, Seungcheol let out a satisfied sigh. He knew he got Joshua. He came to a conclusion that Joshua, the barista from Handsome Coffee and the guy from university, is lovesick. “The subject is a confirmed lovesick.” Seungcheol thought to himself. He was pleased that he was able to knock down three steps in one day.

After three hours, your drinks are long gone. Jeonghan stretched dramatically and said, “I’m sick of this place. Let’s go before I end up not coming here anymore.”

“Yeah, let’s go. My butt hurts from sitting.” You chuckled. The three of you stood up and grabbed your things. Seungcheol noticed Joshua staring at you again as he carried your bag for you. Their eyes met for a brief moment and Joshua immediately looked away. Needless to say, Seungcheol was very entertained.

As the three of you were walking, you turned and bid goodbye to the staff. “Bye, guys! Bye, Joshua!” You smiled and waved. Your action gained attention from Seungcheol, Jeonghan, Seokmin, and Seungkwan.

Joshua grinned too wide and bright. He smiled and waved too, “See you soon!”

Seungcheol playfully smirked and put an arm around you, “See you again, Josh.”

Joshua wanted to crash out when he saw that. Like, of course a girl like you would have a boyfriend like that. Seungkwan and Seokmin were holding each other, with one hand on their mouths as they stood by the pastry case, watching it all unfold. 

“Oh my god, oh my god. Did you see that?” Seungkwan hissed. Seokmin nodded, “I did! Joshua faltered. I felt him falter.”

Joshua watched as you walked away with Seungcheol’s arm around you with Jeonghan eyeing him up and down before following. Seungcheol was very pleased. He wasn’t allergic to love. It’s quite the opposite, actually. He loved love. He just isn’t a fan of grown men acting like a lovesick fool instead of confronting their true feelings towards a woman they like.

No one mourned the lovesick. Especially not Choi Seungcheol.

Joshua stood frozen behind the counter, still staring at the door long after you left. The espresso machine hissed beside him, snapping him back to reality. He exhaled shakily. “Tomorrow,” he told himself. He’d do better tomorrow.

CHAPTER 5: SO THIS IS LOVE

Yoon Jeonghan. The campus pretty boy. He knew it, you knew it, Seungcheol it, and everyone else knew it. Girls and boys always double-take when they look at him. It’s both a blessing and a curse. He likes the attention, but sometimes he wants to be left alone. However, it was difficult for a communication arts major like himself to be alone. He’s constantly surrounded by people. It made him envy you. You’re taking up BS Nutrition and Dietetics. He’s happy that you’re happy in your studies, but he envies the peace you have. He loved you—his little sister, even if you were his twin.

Jeonghan is meticulous about appearances. Every morning, he plans both of your outfits. It had to be coordinated, of course. Being twins meant looking like twins, and in his mind, it made it easier to keep track of you. It was only natural. Sometimes, Jeonghan would feel things that you were feeling. That’s why he took extra care of you and he made sure you two never played roughly. He also didn’t want you to experience heartbreak. So, he’d squish every guy’s moves on you. Most of the time, he’d thank the Lord for making you super oblivious to romance. “You’re lucky to have me as a twin”, he’d often say.

Today, on Jeonghan’s free day, he had a mission. He’d straight up confront Joshua alone. Jeonghan is very direct. He doesn’t beat around the bush and he wants to observe Joshua. Seungcheol seemed to be teasing the guy by being extra sweet with his sister and Jeonghan felt the need to check it out. On his first scan of Joshua, he almost approved because Joshua didn’t seem like the type of guy to break your heart. Seungcheol might tease, but Jeonghan would be the judge.

Jeonghan decided to pay him a visit at Handsome Coffee. He entered your room to check if you were still sleeping and when he saw you still knocked out, he smiled to himself before going through your closet. He was wearing pink, so you should wear pink as well. He picked out the perfect pink outfit and laid it on your bed before leaving the room. With one last look in the mirror and a swipe of lip balm, Jeonghan grabbed his tote bag and left.

-

“Got me spinning like a ballerina, feelin’ gangsta every time I see ya”, Jeonghan sang softly to himself as he walked towards the infamous cafe. He pushed the door open and was immediately hit with the familiar aroma of roasted beans hitting him like a warm hug. He scanned the cafe and smiled when he saw Joshua. He instantly fell in line.

Joshua’s working the counter today because neither Wonwoo nor Seungkwan were available to work. Wonwoo was out of the country and Seungkwan was sick. Today, he’s being monitored by Jihoon and Jun. Soonyoung wasn’t at work either because he had a dance competition to attend to. Chan was working the bar today and Minghao was working the blended beverage station.

Jihoon was overseeing Joshua’s communication and math skills. So far, he wasn’t disappointed. Joshua was doing so well, until Jeonghan was in front of him. There was no sign of you, but he panicked. Joshua’s hand shook and Jihoon watched as sweat started to form on Joshua’s forehead.

“Are you feeling hot, Joshua?” Jihoon asked, concerned.

“Um, no.” Joshua gulped. “I’m good.”

He turned to a smirking Jeonghan who had his arms crossed. “Hello, Joshua. I know you know who I am.” Jeonghan said confidently.

“Hi, Jeonghan.” Joshua greeted with a shaky voice.

Jeonghan sighed in satisfaction, “I’ll have my new favorite drink, please. The blended strawberry lemonade. Make sure it has enough sugar.”

Joshua quickly punched his order and Jeonghan paid by card. He looked at Joshua as the receipt was printing and asked, “What time is your lunch break?”

“Um…” Joshua stammered, “In a while.”

“Good. I’ll be waiting, Joshua.” He said slyly and walked away to pick up his drink at the hand-off area. When he grabbed his drink, he sat at a table nearby and waited for Joshua’s lunch break. As he waited, Jeonghan pulled out his iPad and watched a drama starring Byeon Woo-Seok.

An hour passed and Joshua was finally on lunch break. Joshua left the back room and immediately ordered his food. Thinking Jeonghan already left, he was able to let out a sigh of relief. He was very wrong, though.

“Oh, Joshua!”

He heard the sticky, sweet voice of Jeonghan. Joshua grabbed his tray and turned to look at the twin of the girl of his dreams. They say the devil wears Prada, but the devil actually wears pink.

“Yoo-hoo, come here!” Jeonghan called from his seat with a grin on his face. Joshua reluctantly placed the tray down and sat across from Jeonghan.

“Joshua, take a deep breath. You look like a puppy about to be scolded—cute, but also a little pathetic.” Jeonghan smirked.

Jeonghan took his iPad away and crossed his legs and leaned back, “Hello again, old classmate.”

“Hi-”

“I didn’t come here for small talk.” Jeonghan began. “We need to talk,” he said, the words firm, no nonsense.

Joshua blinked. “Uh… about what?”

Jeonghan leaned in slightly, lowering his voice but keeping his gaze unwavering. “About you. And your crush on Y/N.”

“Wait, what?” Joshua panicked. Jeonghan loved the panic in Joshua’s eyes.

“Yeah,” Jeonghan said, tilting his head, “I know about your silly crush and Seungcheol knows about it too. He’s teasing you. I see everything.”

“Her boyfriend’s teasing me?” Joshua asked, immediately feeling bad about himself. He was never a target for bullying before. He definitely didn’t expect to be bullied in college, of all places.

“What?” Jeonghan asked sharply. “What boyfriend?!”

“You know! The guy you’re always with. The one who accidentally poured coffee on me!” Joshua exclaimed. Jeonghan’s face turned from fierce to relief. Then, he laughed. Like, really laughed, earning looks from other tables.

“That’s not her boyfriend. In fact, she’s never had one.” Jeonghan said.

“Never had one? Impossible!” Joshua exclaimed. “She’s too pretty to be single!”

Jeonghan made a face, “I’m single and pretty too. It’s very possible.”

“Right.” Joshua said sheepishly.

“Anyway, I only know you as a classmate. I need to know what kind of guy you are. Because, Joshua, I will find out if you’re the type to hurt her. And trust me, I won't hold back.”

Joshua opened his mouth, then closed it, caught between fear and admiration. “Listen, Jeonghan, I… I like her. I’ve liked her for years now. And I’d never—”

“Stop right there,” Jeonghan interrupted, a slight smirk tugging at his lips. “I don’t want promises yet. I want to see it. How you treat her, how you make her laugh, how you respect her space… Do you understand?”

Joshua nodded quickly. “Yes. I do. I’ll… I’ll show you.”

Jeonghan leaned back, arms crossed, giving a subtle nod of approval. “Good. That’s what I needed to hear. And just so you know…” He paused, letting the words sink in. “…if you ever hurt her, I’ll personally make sure you regret it because I’ll let Cheollie beat you up.”

Joshua chuckled nervously. “Noted. I get it.”

Jeonghan smiled sweetly, “Alright. You now have my permission to court her. Absolutely no extreme activities, okay? She’s weak. No rollercoasters either. She gets tired easily.”

“You’re giving permission that quick?” Joshua was taken aback. He didn’t expect to go this far, actually.

“Yes,” Jeonghan nodded. “Besides, seeing Cheollie act all sweet and shit towards Y/Nie is getting boring. I’ll tell him to stop now. You and Y/N talk here often, no?”

“Well, only small talk.” Joshua said shyly.

“That’s a start. I’ll let you hang out with us now and neither Cheol nor Y/N can say no because I’m the unspoken leader of the friend group.” Jeonghan grinned. “Everything I say in the group is the law.”

“I can see that.” Joshua nodded.

Jeonghan stood up, smoothing his outfit. “Alright. That’s enough. Do you have my number? You know what, don’t answer that.” Jeonghan quickly reached out his hand and Joshua quickly unlocked his phone before giving it to him. Jeonghan quickly added his number, took a selfie, sent a text to himself, and handed it back to Joshua.

“There, I just blessed your phone. I’ll text you her schedule everyday. That girl just listens to me, anyway. I’m basically her manager.” Jeonghan said.

“Is she an idol or something?” Joshua chuckled.

“She could be if she wanted to, but none of you deserve her.” Jeonghan smiled. “Anyway, don’t be a stranger! Send me your schedule too and we can work on a group hangout. I’ll add you in the gc”

With that, he winked and walked out, leaving Joshua both tense and oddly reassured, knowing he’d passed the final boss, at least for now.

-

“Y/Nie, why aren’t you wearing the clothes I laid out for you?” Jeonghan whined. “How can we coordinate now? I told Cheol and our new friend to coordinate too!”

You rolled your eyes, “It’s just today, Hannie. I always wear what you tell me to wear. I just wanted to try my own style today.”

Jeonghan stared at you and sighed, “Fine. You’re lucky you’re my favorite person ever. Anyway, I’m off to pick-up our new friend. You and Cheol will take the bus to the city, yes?”

“Yes.” You nodded.

“Good. Cheol will have the payments covered. We’ll meet you at the mall, okay?” Jeonghan asked.

“Okay. Who’s the new friend, anyway?” You asked sweetly. You were always soft-spoken. It’s one of the things Jeonghan and Cheol loved about you.

“You’ll see him later, dearest. For now, I’ll pick him up. Behave, okay? Listen to Cheol, he’s older. He’ll be here soon.” Jeonghan waved you goodbye and left.

Jeonghan quickly got in his car and made sure everything was set before driving over to Joshua’s dorm. Yours and Jeonghan’s dorm was a bit far from Joshua’s. By walking, it would take fifteen to twenty minutes. By car, it only takes five minutes.

Jeonghan leaned back in the driver’s seat as he parked and put the car on hazard. He quickly shot a text to Joshua. Not even a minute later, Joshua approached the car. Joshua fumbled with the passenger door, trying to look casual.

“Alright, Joshua,” Jeonghan began, voice smooth but commanding, “here’s the rundown. Today is your first official hangout with us. I need you to know Y/N’s schedule so you don’t screw it up.”

Jeonghan reached for his iPad, unlocked it, and handed it to Joshua. Joshua blinked, clutching his water bottle a little tighter than necessary. “Uh… okay. So, this is her everyday schedule?”

“Yes,” Jeonghan said, tilting his head, clearly amused. “Don’t worry, I won’t make you memorize every little detail—just the major points. First, breakfast at 9. Then music scrolling. Then her mid-morning smoothie— it’s a non-negotiable,” Jeonghan said seriously. “Miss that, and she becomes dramatic.”

Joshua nodded, “Got it.”

“I’ll share that file with you, don’t worry. I’ll also send you a schedule on when you can go on dates without clashing with Cheol time, Hannie time, family time, solo time, and friend group time.” Jeonghan said as he began driving.

“That’s a lot.” Joshua said.

“Welcome to the club.” Jeonghan snorted. “Back to the schedule. She likes to wander around the campus for a bit. Then her class schedule starts from there. Today, don’t get distracted. I need you to note how she interacts with the group, how she laughs, her… quirks. This is all vital intel.”

Joshua’s eyes widened. “Intel?”

Jeonghan waved a hand dismissively. “Details, Joshua. You need details. And remember, do not embarrass her. Do not embarrass yourself. And definitely do not argue with Seungcheol. He is her chaos twin, and trust me, he may look friendly, but he is not to be challenged. He’s also protective. Don’t mind the cute nicknames he calls her and don’t mind her calling him ‘hon’. It’s a Yoon thing. If you get jealous of Cheol, you have no place in our group.”

“Got it.” Joshua swallowed nervously. He took a sip of his water.

“And finally,” Jeonghan said, smiling in that infuriatingly charming way, “you just have to have fun. Observe, respect, laugh, and keep up. If you can do all that, I approve. Fail, and you’ll have me to answer to.”

Joshua nodded frantically, trying to act calm while internally panicking.

“Alright, enough briefing. Let’s go meet the others. I’ve already warned Cheollie that you’re coming, so behave.” Jeonghan winked.

Joshua nodded frantically, trying to act calm while internally wondering if dating you came with an orientation manual. If it did, he’d read it the same way he read The Bible; every day, morning and night.

Seungcheol wasn’t looking forward to this hangout, but his heart melted when he saw that you were excited. On the bus ride, he couldn’t help but feel your excitement radiating throughout the whole trip to the mall.

“Your style is different today, Y/Nie.” Seungcheol commented.

“Is- is it bad?” You asked nervously. Seungcheol turned to you and smiled, “Never. You look great. I’m surprised Hannie let you wear it.”

You smiled sheepishly, “I told him that it’s only for today. I love coordinating with Hannie, but it gets too much sometimes. I just wanted to try something new today.”

“Well, I love it. I also adore how you were able to stand your ground. That’s amazing, baby.” Seungcheol smiled sweetly and gave you a gentle head pat.

When you arrived at the mall, you instantly let Jeonghan know. You and Seungcheol were waiting by the fountain when Jeonghan texted back saying that he was looking for a parking spot.

Joshua didn’t realize they were at the mall until Jeonghan parked and turned off the engine. People passed by to go to the entrance and Joshua watched as he tried to calm himself down. He adjusted his shirt for the nth time, glancing at his reflection in the side mirror.

“Relax,” Jeonghan stifled a laugh, stepping out of the car. “This isn’t a job interview, Joshie.”

“It feels like it.” Joshua gulped as he stepped out of the car, still gripping his water bottle.

“Oh, don’t be ridiculous! It’s far from it.” Jeonghan locked the car with a sweet, menacing grin. “This is worse.”

He walked ahead, not even checking if Joshua was following. By natural response, Joshua rushed to follow him, not wanting to be left behind.

“They’re already inside, waiting by the fountain.” Jeonghan said casually as they rode the escalator from the basement to the ground floor. Of course, Jeonghan isn’t Jeonghan without telling a little lie. “Cheollie insisted on arriving early. He said something about ‘needing to scope you out’.” Jeonghan lied, but Joshua didn’t need to know that. “Save it for the best man's speech.” Jeonghan thought to himself.

Joshua choked on his own spit. “Scope me out?! What does that even mean?” Joshua was frantic.

Jeonghan glanced over his shoulder with a tiny smirk on his pretty face, “Don’t worry. You’ll live. Probably.”

Joshua followed closely behind Jeonghan as they stepped off the escalator, his grip tightening around his water bottle like it was a lifeline. Jeonghan walked confidently in every stride while he felt like he looked stupid. Today, Jeonghan looked like he stepped out of a magazine. Meanwhile, he was sweating his balls off.

And then, he saw you. You took his breath away. His world went in slow motion again. He didn’t know how and why you managed to make him feel this way. He didn’t mind, though.

You were standing beside Seungcheol near the fountain, sunlight bouncing off the water behind you. You looked relaxed, chatting softly, completely unaware of the emotional battlefield Joshua felt like he was walking into.

Joshua stood there, frozen. Jeonghan smiled at you from a distance, “There they are!” He said brightly, striding forward like he owned the mall. It was weird, but even if you were separated for a short time, Jeonghan missed you.

Seungcheol noticed them first. His eyes immediately landed on Joshua and narrowed. Joshua felt eyes on him and saw Seungcheol glaring. Joshua felt his soul leave his body. You followed Seungcheol’s gaze and blinked when you saw Jeonghan approaching with Joshua just… standing. Jeonghan turned and saw Joshua, basically frozen, and rolled his eyes, “Yah, you can’t get to know her if you’re standing there!”

“Sorry!” Joshua awkwardly jogged to catch up.

Your brows furrowed slightly. “Hannie? Is that-”

“Surprise!” Jeonghan sang. “This is our new friend, Joshua. We all know Joshua, don’t we?”

Joshua bowed slightly out of instinct. “H-Hi.” He stammered.

Seungcheol didn’t smile, nod, and blink. He just stared. Hard. Joshua swallowed nervously.

“Hi, Joshua!” You smiled, tilting your head. “It’s nice to see you outside of Handsome Coffee. You must be our new friend. I’m glad Hannie made friends with you!”

Joshua blushed.

“It turns out, he was my former classmate.” Jeonghan said casually. “He’s our current victim now.”

Joshua grew even more nervous. Seungcheol finally spoke, “Hey, Josh. Glad to see you.” Seungcheol’s voice was calm, but something about it made Joshua uneasy.

Then, there was silence. Seungcheol stood up straighter, circled around Joshua, and looked at him up and down. Scanning. Judging. Evaluating.

Jeonghan crossed his arms (a new habit of his) and rolled his eyes dramatically, “Oh my god, stop it.” He groaned. Seungcheol ignored him as he stood in front of Joshua after circling around like a vulture.

“Cheollie?” You said sweetly. “What’s wrong? Joshua’s nice. You know him too!”

Seungcheol folded. He loved and hated that ability of yours. Jeonghan slapped Seungcheol’s arm and snapped, “Yah, stop it! Calm down, and last time I checked, I’m her twin, not you. Relax.”

You blinked. Joshua blinked. Seungcheol blinked. The fountain behind you splashed quietly in the background to ease the tension. You were confused at Seungcheol’s behavior. He had never been like that before. He was always so nice to Joshua at the cafe.

Seungcheol sighed through his nose, slow and controlled. Then, he muttered, “I am relaxed.”

“You look like you’re about to interrogate him under bright lights. BE NICE.” Jeonghan shot back and widened his eyes for effect. Joshua mentally agreed, strongly. You stepped forward slightly, peeking around Seungcheol. Your eyes landed on Joshua; soft, curious, and gentle. Joshua forgot how to breathe.

“Sorry about him, Joshua.” You said quietly with a pout.

Joshua blinked rapidly. “I-It’s okay.”

It’s absolutely not okay, but it was worth it because you smiled at him. “Oh my god. Oh my god. Oh my god.” Joshua thought.

“Thanks for making my drink extra special. I know it’s you putting the extras I never asked for. I really enjoy them!” You said sweetly.

Jeonghan smirked.

“See?” Jeonghan said smugly. “She likes him already. So, move out of the way, Choi. He’s alright and whatever I say, goes, remember?”

Joshua internally screamed. Jeonghan lightly pushed Seungcheol out of the way and began walking with their arms locked together, “Keep up, guys!” Jeonghan called out to the two of you.

 You and Joshua walked side by side, trailing behind Jeonghan and Seungcheol. Joshua gripped his water bottle tighter and sweat formed on his forehead.

Say something, idiot! Joshua told himself.

“Um, I love your outfit. It’s- it’s different from whatever you’ve worn before.” Joshua said shyly.

You turned to him with an excited grin, “Really? I dressed myself up! Hannie usually coordinates what we wear so he can easily find me, but he finally let me style myself. It’s only for today, though. I wouldn’t want to upset Hannie. I know he likes styling for the two of us. Besides, he’s more of a fashionista than I am.” You chuckled lightly.

Joshua thought you were the sweetest girl ever. He fell more in love with you. The next two minutes were filled with comfortable silence. Jeonghan led you to the food court. Joshua’s stomach dropped. “Of course,” Joshua thought, “Public eating. Judgment. Evaluation. Humiliation. Wonderful.”

Jeonghan led them to a table near his favorite pizza place. He let go of Seungcheol’s arm and quickly sat down, clearly already tired. You sat next to Jeonghan. Just as Joshua sat across from you, Seungcheol turned to him and asked, “Can you carry trays?”

Joshua blinked.”Who does he think he is, asking me a fuck-ass question-”

“Yes…?” Joshua answered, confusedly.

“Good,” Seungcheol said flatly. Joshua didn’t know if that was approval or a threat. Seungcheol walked towards Jeonghan’s favorite pizza place and fell in line. Jeonghan looked at Joshua with a proud smile, “Congratulations on surviving the first fifteen minutes.”

“Joshie, would you please tell Cheollie that I want A&W today. It pairs well with the pizza.” You asked politely.

“Joshie?!” Oh, you’ll be the death of Joshua.

“Sure!” Joshua smiled.

“Joshua, are you coming?” Seungcheol called from the counter. Joshua looked at you and Jeonghan before leaving.

“He’s adorable.” You chuckled lightly, earning an amused look from Jeonghan.

“Yeah?” Jeonghan smiled sweetly and you nodded happily. “I think so too. I can give you his number if you want?”

“Hm…” You thought before nodding, “Alrighty!”

Jeonghan passed you Joshua’s number, which you saved with a contact name that you’d easily remember: josh handsome coffee.

The food court was packed by the time Joshua and Seungcheol got the food. Seungcheol turned to Joshua and said, “If you want to get the girl, carry the tray. We don’t let her carry stuff.”

Joshua quickly got the tray, but it was heavier than expected. Heavier than expected. Way heavier. “Why is it so heavy?” Joshua thought, but he didn’t falter in front of Seungcheol. He had his pride to protect now.

Seungcheol walked ahead and sat at the table, across from you.  His arms were crossed, eyes sharp. Joshua took a deep breath and walked towards the table with the heavy tray. Steady. Careful. Focused. 

One step.

Two steps.

Three steps. Someone bumped into him. Joshua’s heart stopped when the tray tilted dangerously. Your A&W wobbled. Time slowed. Joshua skillfully lunged slightly forward to stabilize it, gripping the tray harder. The shake steadied. No spill, no disaster.

He carefully placed the tray on the table. Success.

You smiled at him. “Thank you,” you said gently.

Joshua’s heart fluttered. That smile of yours was worth the mini-panic. Seungcheol nodded once, barely noticeable, but Jeonghan saw it and smirked.

Test no.1: PASSED.

-

After eating, Jeonghan dragged everyone toward the fashion hall of the mall. Clothing stores ranged from affordable to nepo-baby goods.

“Shopping time!” Jeonghan declared happily. Your parents gave you and Jeonghan money regularly for clothing allowance. It wasn’t a lot, but it was still a large sum. Plus, Jeonghan made a lot of money by selling both of your clothes, ones that he felt weren’t needed anymore, online. The money he earned from there was split into three: extra clothing allowance, his allowance, and your allowance. You were surprised that Jeonghan even had customers because he never sold your clothes cheaply despite it being pre-loved.

Upon hearing the declaration, Seungcheol sighed. Joshua panicked once more, but when he turned to look at your excited expression, he’ll admit, he was willing to buy you a shit ton of clothes.

Jeonghan entered his favorite store and greeted the sales associates. They already knew each other by name considering he was a regular customer. The associates knew you too because you’d always model for Jeonghan.

Jeonghan shoved random clothes into your arms. “Try this, and this, and this.”

You nodded obediently and went to the fitting room. The three men waited for you outside and sat on what is known as “the boyfriend couch”. After a while, you walked out wearing a soft, pastel outfit.

Joshua froze. He thought you were beautiful. Extremely beautiful.

“Does it look okay?” You asked shyly. You weren’t confident in this particular dress despite it looking cute. Jeonghan praised you as usual and Seungcheol complimented you. However, those comments didn’t matter. You wanted Joshua’s opinion because he was new in your group, a pair of fresh eyes. You looked at him and the other two men looked at him expectantly. Joshua didn’t pay them any mind because he was in his own little world when he looked at you.

“It looks beautiful on you.” Joshua nodded with a happy grin on his face.

You and Jeonghan ended up buying more clothes than usual. Joshua held all the shopping bags. Then, Jeonghan kept handing him more and more shopping bags. “How many outfits do they need?” Joshua asked himself as you all walked to the escalator that led to the parking lot.

Joshua didn’t complain, though. How could he? The clothes you bought made you happy. That was enough for him. Seungcheol walked beside him while you and Jeonghan walked ahead, arms linked together.

Seungcheol walked quietly, waiting for Joshua to mess up. Though, he never did. “You’re not tired?” He asked Joshua.

“A little,” Joshua admitted. “But it’s fine. She’s happy, isn’t she? If the bags I’m carrying are her source of happiness, then who am I to complain?”

Seungcheol hummed quietly. Not impressed, not disappointed. He was simply observing. You didn’t hear the conversation, but Jeonghan did and he grinned like a menace.

Test no. 2: PASSED.

-

After putting the bags in the trunk of Jeonghan’s car, the four of you made your way to the top floor where the arcade is located. The arcade was loud. Bright lights adorned the place and sounds of the game machines rang nonstop. You clapped your hands softly. Joshua saw this and if he were a snowman, he’d have melted already simply by your cuteness.

As Seungcheol and Jeonghan were deciding on which one to play, you stared at the claw machine nearby. You turned to Joshua and said, “I’m always unlucky with these things.”

“Really?” Joshua asked and you nodded.

“All I’ve ever wanted was one of those cute bunnies.” You sighed sadly.

“My princess is sad? Not on my watch.” Joshua had a determined look on his face. He was a man on a mission. “Wait here.” He told you, and you being you, you listened.

Joshua walked up to the counter and bought a lot of coins. Jeonghand and Seungcheol saw him and quickly walked up to him.

“What’re those for?” Jeonghan asked.

“I’ll win her something.” Joshua muttered.

“Ooh! I’ll watch.” Jeonghan said giddily. Seungcheol nodded. Joshua went back to you and quickly inserted one coin in the slot and the machine came to life. You, Jeonghan, and Seungcheol watched as Joshua carefully maneuvered the claw through the joystick. All four of you inhaled sharply when the claw grabbed a beige bunny. You all watched as the claw lifted the bunny up, drew itself back, and successfully made it through the slot.

All four of you cheered. Victory!

“You did it!” You gasped softly as you clapped gently.

Joshua picked up the bunny from the slot and happily handed it to you. “For you,” he said proudly.

You smiled. “Thank you,” you said quietly, hugging your new plush bunny to your chest. Seungcheol watched closely then looked away. Jeonghan nudged him and when Seungcheol looked at him, Jeonghan wiggled his eyebrows.

Test no. 3: PASSED.

-

Later, while walking through the mall, you slowed slightly. Your steps became smaller, slower. Joshua noticed first. “You okay?” he asked softly.

You nodded, “Just a little tired.”

Before Seungcheol could react, Joshua stepped in front of you and crouched down. “Hop on, Y/Nie.” he said.

You blinked and asked, “Are you sure?”

“I’m sure. I don’t want you to walk around tired. Hop on.” Joshua said sweetly. You carefully hopped on Joshua’s back and he held your thighs carefully (and respectfully). You wrapped your arms around his neck and got comfy.

“Thanks, Joshie.” You said softly.

“Anytime, Y/Nie. I’ll be your personal carriage.” Joshua chuckled lightly causing you to laugh.

Seungcheol saw the whole exchange and froze. That wasn’t planned. That wasn’t forced. That wasn’t even part of the test. That was pure instinct. Jeonghan saw it too and smirked.

(Unexpected) Test no. 4: PASSED.

-

Everyone was quiet in the car ride back to the university. Jeonghan drove to Joshua’s dorm first because you, Jeonghan, and Seungcheol lived in the same dorm building. When Jeonghan pulled up in front of Joshua’s dorm building, he turned to look at him, “Thanks for hanging out with us, Shua!”

“Thanks for inviting me.” Joshua said politely. As he got ready to leave the car, you grabbed his wrist and his heart stopped for a second. He turned to look at you and you had the cutest, sleepy look on your face.

“Thanks for the bunny and the piggyback ride.” You said softly.

His eyes softened, “It’s no problem, Y/N. As long as you’re happy, I’m happy.”

“I’m very, very happy.” You said sleepily with a soft smile on your face.

“Good.” Joshua grinned. He said one last goodbye to everyone before exiting the car. You fell asleep when he left. Jeonghan drove slower. He always did that whenever you’re asleep in the car.

“Today went great, no?” Jeonghan said. “What do you think? Is our baby girl all grown up now?”

Seungcheol leaned his head on the window and said, “Perhaps. I guess I’m just not ready for another man to be in our circle and I definitely didn’t prepare for a moment like this. I thought we had more years, Hannie.”

“Well, it was bound to happen.” Jeonghan quickly glanced at Seungcheol before looking back at the road, the dorm building coming into view. “I’m just glad that it’s Joshua. My feelings are light towards him. It’s a good thing. Mom and dad would love him.”

“True, but I’ll still keep an eye on him.” Seungcheol said.

Jeonghan chuckled, “Of course. I’ll keep an eye on him too.”

Later that night, Joshua received a text from you and he instantly replied.

Joshua went to bed that night with a smile on his face.

Just as you were about to put your phone away, Jeonghan opened your door and said, "Hon, it's time to sleep."

"I know. I was about to put my phone away." You said softly. Jeonghan fully entered your room and you felt the bed dip as he sat down and played with your hair.

"Are you happy? Did you have fun today?" Jeonghan asked.

You nodded, "I had so much fun. Thanks for inviting Joshua, Hannie. That was very nice of you."

"It's no problem." Jeonghan said. "Do you like Joshua?"

"Hm... well, he's nice and he's cute when he panics." You said, earning a chuckle from Jeonghan. "I also like his face."

"Alright, that's enough." Jeonghan said. "Get some sleep, Y/N."

"Stay?" You yawned.

"Always." Jeonghan smiled and played with your hair until you fell asleep. When he was sure that you were asleep, Jeonghan took out his phone and sent a quick text to Joshua before falling asleep next to you, too lazy to go to his room.

CHAPTER 6: JOSHUA FROM LA FINALLY GOT THE GIRL WITH THE HELP OF SEUNGKWAN. GIVE HIM A BONUS, JUSEYO. -BOO SEUNGKWAN

Time passed faster than anyone expected. What started as awkward group hangouts slowly turned into routine. Joshua seamlessly fit into your group without even trying so hard and he felt himself become more comfortable and confident.

Mall trips became movie nights. Movie nights turned into casual dinners. Sometimes it was arcade runs, sometimes just walking around the mall aimlessly while Jeonghan complained about boredom and Seungcheol pretended he didn’t enjoy any of it.

Joshua was there for all of it.

At first, Seungcheol watched him like a hawk—sharp eyes always tracking his every move. Jeonghan, ever the more relaxed one, preferred to observe quietly, pretending not to care while noticing everything. Weeks passed, then months and somewhere along the way, Joshua stopped feeling like a guest. He became part of the routine, part of the group; part of your life.

Eventually, Jeonghan would hit him up with hangout messages according to the curated schedule Jeonghan lovingly put together based on his masterlist of each of your schedules.

“I know you’re not working today. Come hangout with us. That’s an order, not a request :)” 

“Today is a friend group hangout! We’re going to the beach. Cheol is driving and you’ll stay in the passenger seat. Y/Nie and I will stay in the back because we’re too pretty to give Cheollie directions :p”

“I know you’re staying in a solo dorm, so we’re moving the hangout at your place. Our dorm is a mess and Cheol’s dorm is too cramped for four people. We’re bringing the food and drinks in return. See ya!”

Jeonghan didn’t want to admit that his baby sister (younger twin) was growing up. Alas, he had no choice but to see it all unfold in front of him. He noticed that you had taken a liking to Joshua. So, he had to do what he had to do—meddle.

Jeonghan started letting you go out with Joshua alone. He genuinely didn’t want to because he wasn’t ready to be separated from you. He wasn’t ready for the possibility of you having a boyfriend. This time, it was Seungcheol telling him to calm down.

So, Jeonghan made the decision of finally letting you go out with Joshua on your own. Not directly, of course. He didn’t want you to feel abandoned. He never said the words out loud. Instead, it came in the form of suspiciously timed excuses.

“Ah… I’d love to go,” Jeonghan sighed dramatically, checking his phone. “But I have plans today.”

You blinked. Jeonghan never had plans that came before you. Plus, he had a perfectly curated schedule that aligned with everyone. All of you had access to that Google Sheet file.

“Plans?”

Jeonghan hated seeing you so down, but he had to push it down. “Very important plans,” he nodded seriously. “I’ll catch up with you later.”

Jeonghan would only give you at least two hours with Joshua before joining you after his “plans”. You looked across the room and asked sweetly, “Cheollie?”

Across the room, Seungcheol would keep his gaze on his phone to avoid looking at your puppy eyes because he knew if he looked, he’d give in.

“Same,” he muttered. “Busy.”

You didn’t question it, but Joshua did. Because somehow, their schedules only became “busy” whenever he’d ask you to hang out.

Which was exactly how you ended up standing in front of Handsome Coffee on a quiet afternoon. The familiar bell above the door chimed as you stepped inside. The warm scent of coffee beans filled the air, mixed with the low hum of conversations and soft music playing in the background.

Behind the counter, Joshua stood frozen. Mid-wipe, rag still in hand, eyes wide because you were standing in front of him with a sweet smile on your face.

“Hi, Joshie!” You greeted.

“H-Hi! What’re you doing here? According to the Google Sheet, it’s a free day.” Joshua said. He’s very thankful for Jeonghan’s skill of organization. It helped his forgetfulness.

“Yeah. I asked everyone to hang out here, but they all said no again.” You sighed. “I know you’re out early today, so I’ll just wait for you.”

“You sure? I still have three hours.” Joshua said as he looked at the clock. You nodded, “Yes. I have my iPad to keep me company. Maybe we can go to the mall after?”

“I’ll go wherever you want, baby.” Joshua said without thinking. Then, he froze again. 

“Baby?” You said, tilting your head.

“Um, sorry! I just- Cheol and Hannie call you that, so I-”

“It’s okay! I like it. I like your speaking voice too. It’s very soft. I’ll sit over there, okay? See ya in a bit, Joshie!” You smiled before walking toward your usual table.

Seungkwan watched the whole scene unfold with his arms crossed. He noticed everything, of course he did. Before, he noticed how Joshua checked the door every few minutes, how he fixed his hair whenever the bell chimed, how he suddenly forgot basic human functions whenever your name was mentioned. It was embarrassing. Extremely embarrassing.

Now, he noticed the new Joshua. He was more confident now and walked with his head held high. His style got better now too. He was laughing more, smiling more, and relaxing more. He was happy to see Joshua thrive, but he was sick of him pining. So, he took matters into his own hands.

By the time Joshua’s lunch break arrived, the two of you were seated at a small table near the window. A sandwich sat between you. Half-eaten. Mostly because Joshua forgot how chewing worked whenever you smiled at him.

“That’s so embarrassing!” You laughed.

“I know, right?” Joshua laughed. “I never went back to that place because the embarrassment eats me up alive every time.”

“Oh my gosh,” your face was red from laughing. “I need to calm down. I’ll go to the restroom for a bit, okay?”

“Sure. Take your time, Y/Nie.” Joshua smiled as you stood up and went to the restroom.

Seungkwan passed by your table, pretending to wipe a perfectly clean surface. He leaned close to Joshua, very close, and whispered, “Ask her out.”

Joshua looked at him, “Aren’t you supposed to be working?”

“I am working. I’m working on helping you to get the girl of your dreams because I’m so sick of seeing you lovesick. Now, ask her out.”

“What?”

“Did I stutter? Ask. Her. Out.” Seungkwan said through gritted teeth.

Joshua panicked internally, externally, and spiritually. “I can’t.” Joshua whispered.

Seungkwan clicked his tongue and said, “If you don’t ask her out right the fuck now, I’ll tell Mingyu to ask her out because I know for a fact that Mingyu flirts with her every time she comes here alone.”

“Mingyu’s doing what?!”

“ASK. HER. OUT.” Seungkwan said before going back to the counter.

Joshua inhaled slowly as he glanced at Mingyu collecting the dirty dishes from tables. His hands felt warm and slightly shaky when you came back from the restroom.

“I’m back.” You smiled cutely.

Joshua looked into your eyes as you sat comfortably across from him. He’s a goner. He’s totally in love with you now and there’s no way in hell he’d let you slip away from him. There’s no way he’d let Mingyu ask you out.

“Y/Nie…”

You blinked softly. “Yeah?”

He swallowed hard. His palms were now sweaty. “Would you…”

Then a pause. You looked at him expectantly, waiting for him to finish his sentence.

“...like to go out with me? Like, as a date?” Joshua looked at you nervously. Silence fell between you. Joshua’s heart pounded wildly. It was loud enough to drown out the entire cafe.

You looked at Joshua with the softest look on your pretty face. Time slowed down as you stared at him. Joshua felt defeated. Your lack of response made him think he didn’t have any chance.

“On second thought, it’s okay if you don’t want to.” Joshua said, looking down.

You gave him a small smile, “I’d love to go out with you, Joshua.”

Joshua froze. His head shot up quickly to look at you with a surprised expression. Did you just say yes to him? He stared at you like you had just spoken another language.

“You… would?” Joshua asked, just to confirm, of course.

You chuckled lightly at his expression and nodded, smiling wider. “Yes, I would, Joshie.”

Oxygen in his lungs? Gone.

Thoughts? Gone.

Brain? Disconnected?

What is air? 

What’s his name?

Who am I?

He’s probably going to faint.

Meanwhile, across the cafe, Joshua’s coworkers were watching. Seungkwan and Seokmin were watching intently, Jihoon had his arms crossed, Minghao was watching with Jun from the pastry area, and Mingyu watched while holding a tub of clean dishes.

“Why are we watching again?” Jihoon asked. “I have stuff to do.”

“Aish, sajangnim, calm down. You have plenty of time.” Seungkwan replied. “Right now, we’re watching Joshua ask his crush out on a date.”

“His crush?” Minghao asked. “I didn’t know he liked iced-chocolate-drinker-resident-baby-girl.”

“Well, he does and Seungkwan discovered it first!” Seokmin said proudly. “Then he told me first.”

“He was painfully obvious, anyway. Soonyoung was annoyed at him messing up the drinks, but I kept seeing him stare.” Jun chuckled.

“Can’t blame him. She’s so pretty.” Mingyu swooned.

“Stop that.” Seungkwan gave him the side-eye. “She looks better with Joshua. You look like a playboy.”

“Ouch.” Mingyu pouted.

Joshua just stared at you. You let out a small laugh at his stunned expression. You leaned in close, rested your elbow on the table, and rested your chin on your palm. “Joshua?”

He snapped back to reality, “Yes!” He said way too loud, earning looks from most people in the cafe. Joshua shrank slightly in his seat.

“Sorry,” he whispered, bowing to people he made eye contact with before turning to you. He opened his mouth to speak, but was cut off by someone calling his name loudly.

“JOSHUA!” A loud voice echoed from behind the counter. He looked over and saw his coworkers staring at him with Seungkwan standing, hands on his hips and eyes narrowed.

“Your break ended two minutes ago.” Seungkwan said with a sassy look on his face.

“What?”

“You heard me. Don’t make me repeat it.” Seungkwan said. “It’s Mingyu’s turn to have his lunch break and he’s whiney.”

Joshua looked at you, then at Seungkwan, and then back at you. He internally screamed.

“It’s okay,” you said gently. “You should go back to work. The sooner you go back to work, the sooner we can go on a date.”

“What?”

“Well, it’s only you and me today. And I did say that I’ll wait for your shift to end. We can go on our first date after.” You smiled sweetly.

Joshua nodded and quickly stood up, almost knocking his chair back. He caught it and placed it back and looked at you. He’s still processing the fact that you actually said yes.

“I’ll see you later.” Joshua said, trying to act cool about it. You nodded with a smile on your face. The same smile that made his brain malfunction. He smiled and walked back to the back room. He quickly put his apron on and joined his workmates behind the counter.

Seungkwa grabbed him by the sleeve. “What did she say?” Seungkwan demanded. He wants the full tea. The others looked at him expectantly. Joshua took a deep breath and said, “She said yes.”

Seungkwan gasped dramatically, “FINALLY.”

Joshua covered his face, slightly embarrassed, but smiling. You watched quietly from your table, hands folded neatly on the table with your iPad in front of you. Your heart was beating fast too. Because now, you had a date with Joshua. You took out your phone and sent a text to Jeonghan to update him.

“Joshua,” Seungkwan whispered sharply. Joshua turned to look at him.

“You just made the same latte twice. You’re lucky Soonyoung’s coming in later.” Seungkwan hissed from the counter.

“Oh.” Joshua blinked slowly. Pause, then, “She said yes.”

Seungkwan sighed. “You really are a goner. You’ve said that four times already.”

Joshua didn’t respond this time. He just let out a small breath of laughter, still smiling as he turned back to his work. Across the cafe, you looked up from your phone for a moment and caught his eye. Joshua straightened instantly, like he had been caught doing something illegal.

You smiled at him.

And for the first time since he saw you, Joshua didn’t feel so nervous anymore. He smiled back before looking away. He was sure he finally found the one person he could proudly introduce to his mom.

EPILOGUE

You to Jeonghan (during the date)

Cheol and Hannie (after picking you and Joshua up)

Seungkwan to Joshua (days after)

Joshua to Mingyu (after Seungkwan’s text)

You to Joshua (a month or so later)

A/N: AAAAAHHH IT'S FINALLY HERE! hope u guys liked it :> pls give me feedback so i can improve!

Fic taglist: @okiedokrie-main @gibbonstar @really-gabby

[shuajunice]

HAHAHAHA i appreciate this review tysm!

[shuajunice]

My girl! I miss you!

MY GIIIIIRL

MY SHAYLAAAAA

I MISS YOU LOADS!!! 🥹🤍

[shuajunice]

SVT: They Confess

Pairing: svt x reader Summary: they confess that they love you but you deflect bc you think it's a prank (but you SO love him back) Warning/s: none Notes: smau

a/n: this has been on my mind for a while and it was better off as an smau and i was right lol

smau reqs are open!

[shuajunice]

You Have a Huge Fight - SVT 14!Member Reader

Pairing: SVT x 14!Member Reader Summary: you have a huge fight Note: Inspired by scenes from rupaul's drag race's untucked episodes. that being said, bold-italicized sentences are quotes from rpdr untucked, some are gen neutral and some are fem

SCOUPS (trainee days) [Raven vs Tatiana]:

You honestly didn't think at all. You were only messing around until it got personal. Seungcheol genuinely didn't want to participate in messing with Seungkwan. As the leader, Seungcheol didn't want to cause any rift between his members. He knew better than to participate in childish teasing, especially when they're only about to debut.

"Yah, quit it!" Seungkwan whined, as you laughed along with Jeonghan, Seokmin, and Vernon. Teasing Seungkwan frequently happened in the practice room. If not him, your other target would be Mingyu.

Today, however, Seungcheol had enough. He was tired, he had things to do, and he didn't want to babysit any longer. Like the rest, he wanted to go home early.

"Be nice to him. That's enough of that." His voice boomed through out the practice room. The rest of the guys stopped laughing, but you rolled your eyes and crossed your arms, "You always try to be the nice one, Cheol oppa."

Seungcheol looked at you with knitted brows. The rest of the guys felt the tension shift as they all looked between you and the leader. "But that's who I am. What do you mean, Y/N?"

"It's just that all of us are trying to have fun because obviously, today has been really tiring. We were just messing with Kwan as usual."

"YOU decided to mess around, not me. I'm the leader, so have some respect." Seungcheol said as he stood up from his seat, earning wide-eyed looks from the guys. Joshua's jaw dropped as he watched the scene unfold. Both of you were having some sort of stand-off. In hindsight, you looked funny; two teens having a stand-off with Justin Bieber-esque bangs while wearing ridiculous outfits that were trendy that time.

"But the lack of decision makes you look like a doormat." You said as Joshua gasped. Vernon let out a quiet "oooh", but both of you were so annoyed that it fell on deaf ears.

"I'M a doormat for deciding not to mess around and tease Seungkwan? That's actually so, so shallow. I don't want to fight you because you're a kid and you obviously don't know any better. I don't care what you think of me. In fact, think that I'm a doormat. Think it, and then when you find out about me a little bit more down the road, you'll realize that you're wrong. Think what you want, Y/N."

JEONGHAN [Everyone vs Serena Cha-Cha]:

Filming a GoSe episode is tiring in itself. Seungkwan would MC the episode you were filming and in this episode, all of you were divided into three groups. Your group consisted of you (as the leader), Mingyu, Vernon, and Seungcheol.

The challenge was to make clothes that are functional. As the leader of a group that consisted of men who can do well on such projects, you had the upperhand. So, imagine everyone's surprise when Wonwoo's team won. Even Wonwoo was surprised. He wasn't even interested in clothes that much.

After filming, you were in a sour mood. Your group members were trying to cheer you up, but you were visibly upset. Jeonghan started teasing you for it when you all went to a samgyeopsal place to celebrate Wonwoo's group's success.

"I really didn't expect our group to win." Jun said, grilling some pork belly.

"Same here. I love our group members, but compared to everyone, we had no clue what we were doing." Wonwoo chuckled, "And it's funny because I was the group leader."

Wonwoo continued to downplay his contributions to their group, causing everyone to disagree.

"You guys are really talented." Wonwoo said.

"But you're here with us, so," Mingyu started, "so, are you."

"We're all in the same caliber." Seungcheol nodded. "Everyone of us."

"Except for Y/N." Jeonghan joked, causing everyone to laugh. They all knew it was a joke, but you didn't take it lightly.

"Wow." was all you said above all the noise.

Minghao raised his hand and everyone became quiet, "I feel, as a leader, you picked the right people for your team, but what you did not do was delegate the right tasks for your team members. The captain always goes down with their ship, even when they try to get out of it."

Jeonghan raised his drink in approval, "I was the team leader, but I made sure that my team was comfortable with what I wanted to do and that I was comfortable with what they wanted to do. It was a huge collaboration."

Not thinking and not having any other backup, you looked at Jeonghan from across the table, "So, they were comfortable with you outshining them?"

"Oh, shit."

"Oh, my lord."

"Oh, fuck."

"Ah, here we go."

Jeonghan intensely stared at you from where he was seated. He clearly wasn't joking around anymore. Sensing the tension, Seungcheol pursed his lips and said, "Yah, let's stop and change the topic."

"No, they clearly have something to say." Jeonghan said sharply. "You got to know when to open your mouth."

"I know that I want to open my mouth right now." You snapped back, earning an 'oooh' from Joshua, who was sat next to you. "All of you have been on my ass the whole day and I'm tired of hearing you guys be so loud! Like, let's sit down and have an educated and civilized conversation."

"Civilized conversation?" Vernon repeated in surprise. He made eye contact with Seungkwan, whose jaw was dropped.

"Yes, a civilized conversation." You confirmed. "Empty cans always make the loudest noise."

This caused an uproar between everyone. Jeonghan looked really pissed off, you were getting on his last nerve. During the havoc you caused, you managed to say something along the lines of, "I'm the only one who finished college here and I read books. I went to school, got my degree, and I read books."

"Yah!" Jeonghan raised his voice. The rest of the guys looked at him while he remained his gaze on you. "None of us read books, is that what you're trying to say? None of us are educated because you went to fucking school?"

"I went to school too." Soonyoung said.

"I read books too, Y/N. You're not special, sorry about that." Wonwoo retorted. He was kind of annoyed that you weren't being a good sport. What was supposed to be a fun challenge, turned into something bitter.

"You're saying you went to school? You're so educated? You're so civilized?" Jeonghan said angrily, standing up in the process of his ramblings. "Who gives a fuck? Go the fuck home! I've had it, officially! I don't appreciate being called uneducated or being referenced to being uneducated."

Everyone started cheering on Jeonghan for spilling the truth. After all, you had no business calling your seniors uneducated.

"I've known you for years, and I've never seen you get like this." Jihoon said in surprise, as he looked at Jeonghan.

"A punk has never gotten me like that." Jeonghan huffed before sitting back down. "And FYI, calling us uneducated doesn't make you more educated than you think. An educated person doesn't call themselves educated. They just let it show. You're not any better."

Then, silence. Only the grilling meat was heard.

Seungcheol cleared his throat, "Bottomline is: we did a great job. We all did. Now, let's drop the topic. Y/N, I'll deal with you later."

JOSHUA [Yvie Oddly vs Miss Vanjie]:

Joshua was never one to lose his cool, but you pushed him over the edge. It all started with a misunderstanding. Jihoon had played the vocal team's recording in the studio and Jihoon had asked Joshua's opinion and he gave fair comments. You being you, took it the wrong way. You genuinely thought he was coming for you and it put you in a bad mood.

"I think a lot of people are very, very frustrated. We're all competing against each other, we start comparing ourselves, and whatever." Joshua said. "So, these songs are very good. I think it balances all of us pretty well. There's no need to compete."

Everyone hummed in agreement, but Joshua caught you rolling your eyes. "What're you rolling your eyes for?"

"Because that's cute to say, but you also said some stuff about me." You said. Joshua's shoulders visibly dropped. He was disappointed in your lack of comprehension.

"Why're you going backwards? I just gave constructive criticism. When Jihoon asked my opinion about your vocals, I had given it a fair review just like how I gave everyone else a fair review. I wasn't saying stuff for the heck of it. This shouldn't be personal, Y/N." Joshua explained calmly, very level-headed.

"He also said stuff about me, Y/N." Jeonghan piped up. "You don't see me sulking, right? Just take it positively."

"I thought we were closer than that, but you wanted to pop off at the couch with me. That's what bothered me." You said. Joshua was now pissed.

"And that's why I'm fucking pissed is because I did NOT pop off at you!" Joshua said exasperatedly. Even pissed, he still had grace.

"Okay, but I'm telling you I thought that you did!" You raised your voice.

"Oooh, don't retract what you said." Seokmin said, shaking his head.

"Yeah, that's not what you said, Y/N. Don't change it." Seungkwan said in a hushed voice.

"You got defensive!" Joshua exclaimed.

"You're such a liar! You were telling me that you were proud of me and yadayadayada-" You rambled before Joshua cut you off.

"Because I AM proud of you!" Joshua said, raising his voice a bit. "I'm so fucking proud of you and everyone else! Constructive criticism can help you be better and I'm sorry fi you took it the wrong way!"

"I won't feel like this for no reason!" You exclaimed. "Clearly, you wanted to come at me for my vocals. I'm part of the vocal team for a reason!"

"Yes, and congrats you're in the vocal team! I'm just saying points that can make you sound better!" Joshua reasoned.

"You know what? I'm done!" You walked out of the room and Joshua tiredly called out, "I was trying to be cordial with you!"

JUN [Everyone vs Aiden Zhane]:

Being in the performance unit was truly a blessing, but sometimes it felt overwhelming when your members were so good at dancing. You were good too, but there are times when you felt insecure. Due to your insecurities, you felt off during practice at times.

After rehearsals, everyone was gathered in a circle in the practice room, bottled water in hand. Everyone was talking about their lapses while you sat quietly.

"I have something to say." Jun announced as everyone looked at him. He turned to you and said, "Y/N, I love you, but we did rehearsals, and I felt like all of us were carrying you."

"Oh, here we go." Minghao muttered under his breath. He was aware of Jun's feelings because Jun felt so bothered.

"Like, a while ago, we were killing it in rehearsals. Did you give me an over the top?" Jun added with attitude.

You shrugged and said, "Well, at the end of the day, I did my job."

"I know you did your job, Y/N." Jun nodded, "But did you think it was good enough?"

"Can I say one thing to get this out of the way?" You asked. "Because from day fucking one, I have had, pretty much everybody, coming for me."

Hoshi's face contorted into confusion, "No one's coming for you. What the fuck?"

"You're overreacting, Y/N." Chan said.

Then the overlapping voices started coming. It was all too much.

"Leave Y/N alone, guys."

"Maybe she's just not feeling it today. We all have those days. Let's not hound her for it."

"Jun, that was too much."

"I kinda agree with Jun-hyung."

Then Seungcheol's voice boomed, full-on leader mode, "At the end of the day, it doesn't fucking matter. Y/N did the job, leave her the fuck alone. Let me worry about the whole group. Fuck you, fuck you, fuck you, and fuck you. I'LL worry about the group. Leave her alone, she's clearly bothered."

"But nobody's attacking her." Jun shrugged.

"What do you mean, 'nobody's attacking her'?! You have have been calling out my name this entire time!" You shrieked.

"I think everything was blown way out of proportion." Minghao said calmly after everything had died down.

"I agree." Joshua said, sitting on a chair with his legs crossed.

Jeonghan spoke, "I feel like Jun has a point that he wanted to say and it didn't register well."

He turned to Jun and said, "What it sounds like, you're saying, 'they gave her the steps, but she still kept fucking up'. Y/N said, 'At the end of the day, I had fucked up the steps. They can tell I got in my head, but when I got out of that space, I delivered'."

"Absolutely." Minghao nodded. "Y/Nie did her best today."

HOSHI [Everyone vs Mimi Imfurst]:

The practice room was too quiet for how tense it felt. Everyone could tell something was off the moment you and Hoshi stopped making eye contact.

Seungkwan was the first to say it, half-joking but clearly testing the waters. "Okay, what’s the beef between you and Hoshi?"

You let out a short laugh, but it didn’t reach your eyes. "I have respect," you started, voice steady but tight, "because it wasn’t your decision, it was management. I get that."

Your gaze finally snapped to him. "But I feel betrayed."

Hoshi’s head tilted, brows furrowing immediately. "Betrayed?"

"I think, personally, I'm sorry," You started, "Dino is a better dancer than you."

A few members shifted uncomfortably. The air got heavier. Dino sharply inhaled and muttered, "Yikes."

"If you wanna get personal, we'll get personal." Hoshi scoffed under his breath, looking down. He was too pissed to even look at you.

“If the choreographer makes a decision about our blockings and formation, are you going to speak up and say something? I had no idea about how you were feeling, but if you have a problem with it, you come to me first. Not—this.” He gestured vaguely, clearly referring to the tension that had been building in front of everyone.

"No," you shot back instantly. "I listened to you—every time you said 'trust me,' every time you said 'it’ll work out.' Now you listen to me for one hot minute."

That got everyone’s attention. Jeonghan was lowkey hiding his grin. This was his reality tv.

"Act the fool, girl." Hoshi said loudly. "Act the fool."

"I helped with that choreography," you said, your voice finally cracking just a little. "Not for credit, not for attention, but to be part of it. And when it was presented? I didn’t exist. I placed in the far back where no one could see me."

Hoshi’s expression hardened, jaw tightening. “That’s not what happened.”

“Then what did?” you challenged. "Why are we sitting here bullying each other? I think it's highly inappropriate."

"No, that's not it."

"We're not bullying each other."

"It's just a formation, Y/N."

"I was at the back last time, but I didn't say shit like this."

Hoshi stepped forward now, eyes sharp. "Don’t twist it like that. We're having a discussion."

"I’m not twisting anything. I did not sign up for this."

"Wait, wait, wait," Minghao interrupted, "How do you not know what you were signing up for? You did this, girl."

"You know what? I'm done." You began walking to the exit.

"You started this shit." Hoshi called out as you continued to walk out.

"That's not very nice." Joshua piped up, earning a look from Hoshi. "What? It's true. Let her cool down."

WONWOO [Everyone vs Trinity K. Bonet]:

Being the only girl in the hip-hop unit was difficult. You worked so hard to work your way up and your members were very proud of you. However, management didn't see it that way. After a particularly tiring session of practicing your unit's comeback, the five of you decided to drink at your dorm's rooftop with the rest of the guys.

Everyone was talking while you were sitting quietly in the corner next to Seokmin.

"You are so clammed up, and quiet now, Y/N. What's going on? What's going on in your head?" Seungcheol said as everyone turned to look at you.

You shrugged and took a sip of your drink, "There's nothing to talk about."

"Are you upset about something?" Jeonghan asked in a sweet tone that only mothers have.

"I mean, it's kind of a slap in the face. I do rap, but I can't execute a rap that I wrote myself." You answered.

"You've been mopin' around like Sally Sad Pants. You can mope or move on." Wonwoo piped up. Mingyu looked at him with his jaw slightly dropped. He didn't expect Wonwoo to say anything and he knew that Wonwoo was already annoyed at you. It was something Wonwoo told him about the other day.

"It's just something that I wasn't able to do and it's frustrating." You sighed.

Not wanting to add fuel to the fire, Seungcheol stepped in, "You know how to embody all of that. Like, you got your fashion on point, you know how to sell a look, you're beautiful, you're gorgeous, and it's just like we all have different qualities about us that makes us individuals, and I just think you have so much potential."

"I understand that if I were on Project Runway." You answered as you looked at everyone. Seungcheol poked his tongue through his cheek and Jeonghan shook his head in disapproval.

"Girl-" Seungkwan sighed.

"Or America's Next Top Model. It would be something different because that requires being beautiful, and putting on makeup, and selling garments." You continued. "The thing I'm doing is rap. Rap is what makes or breaks you."

Wonwoo sighed in frustration, "It's YOU who makes or breaks you."

"Every time I go out there, I feel like I do my best, but they don't."

Everyone went silent. Wonwoo stared at you with daggers in his eyes. He cleared his throat, "Let me ask you a very fair question."

"Shoot."

"What do you successfully? Quickly." Wonwoo asked sharply. Everyone stared at you as you went silent. Wonwoo raised his brows in anticipation.

"I hate that every time we gather after rehearsals, the conversation is always about me." You responded. "I try not to say anything at all, so the focus doesn't go to me."

"But you're passive aggressive, and you asked for it." Wonwoo snapped.

"I didn't ask for shit. You asked me a question." You retorted.

"Because you sit in the corner and you pout." Wonwoo pointed out.

"I'm not pouting about anything." You said.

Wonwoo nodded and leaned back in his seat, "Okay, that's why it always comes back to you."

You only shook your head and leaned back. The tension was thick. "So, um, change topic." Jeonghan said.

WOOZI [Eureka O'Hara vs Trinity The Tuck]:

Being in the vocal team was tiring, but you loved it. Today was one of those days were you just aren't feeling it. You swear you weren't out for blood, but something about Jihoon's directions rubbed you with wrong way.

"Sorry we didn't finish on time today, guys." Jihoon said and a chorus of 'it's alright' and 'it's fine' were heard. To you, it wasn't.

"To me, as a leader, you automatically get more responsibility for something going wrong especially if it's your unit." You piped up, earning looks from the rest of the vocal team.

"Okay, Y/N, where is this coming from?" Jihoon asked tiredly, hand on his hip. You only looked at him and shrugged, "I said what I said."

"Do you have some kind of problem?" Jihoon squinted.

"You have a lack of responsibility is what I'm trying to say. Making us extend until we're tired is wrong." You said. Joshua's jaw dropped. Seokmin and Seungkwan looked at each other with wide eyes. Jeonghan looked away and sipped his water.

"I take responsibility for the things I did wrong, but what I don't agree with and what I think you're very shady about-" Jihoon said.

"It's not shady if it's true." You cut him off. "You're not a very good leader. I don't even know why they chose you."

"Oooh." Joshua said.

"Aish, now hold on a minute-" Jeonghan interrupted, but it was no use.

"You said that I was not a good leader. I was a good leader. Yes, we ran out of time and did not get to do it altogether, but that wasn't just my fault. We were working as a team. That is why you're shady." Jihoon explained. "It's not my fault. Shit happens."

"Am I shady?"

"You are shady."

"Because I feel like you wanted me to immediately go to 'shady' versus stepping up and accepting responsibility." You scoffed. "Just accept that you're not a fit leader. Did you even care to ask us if we liked the line distribution?"

Jihoon looked confused as hell. He didn't understand why you were picking a fight. He was just as tired as you were.

"If you're tired, just say so. You're making it about something else when it's not." Jihoon said.

You shook head, "I'm not done."

Jihoon stepped forward, "No, you're done, and I'm going to tell you why you're done. I explained exactly why I gave you that verse, and Jeonghan for his verse, and Joshua, Seokmin, and Seungkwan for their verses, and if anybody had an objection, they could have objected it and we could've talked it out. So, don't stand there and tell everyone that I didn't do my job because I did."

"I felt like I wasn't included-" You glanced around, but Jihoon was shaking his head at you. He was pissed.

"You always think you're not included. You think I don't know? I know you." Jihoon seethed.

"You don't know me. I didn't get a chance to explain my reason for saying what I said." You retorted with arms crossed.

Jihoon took a deep breath and exhaled sharply, "You know what? I don't want to deal with this. I'm gonna go. You guys enjoy."

With that, Jihoon walked out.

a/n: ugh i miss the old rpdr HAHAHA