Chained to you (ongoing)
You tried to snuck away from your marriage by making a scandal on your own: have you photographed with someone outside a bar that will cause enough humiliation for your parents. Not knowing the man you chose for your ploy was your fiancĂŠ himself. You thought youâve seen enough of the real world, but being with Taehyung only unraveled so much more.
Genre: angst, romance, unconventional relationshipÂ
Warning: eventual smut
A/N: cross-posted from wattpad; updates are uploaded in wattpad first
1 2 3 4Â next
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Jeon Jungkook
curiosity didnât kill the cat (completed)
Prompt: âYouâre early,â said the grim reaper with a hint of amusement.
Genre: angst, romance, sageuk au, grimreaper!jungkook, fantasy au, royalty au
Warning: eventual smut, violence
A/N: final parts (Part 5 to 7) are uploaded in wattpad
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Crash and burn (completed)
You failed to see it coming.
You were already in the middle before it began.
Genre:Â fluff, angst, Idol!Jungkook
entry
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Min Yoongi
Sapiens (completed)
Men are monkeys, babies are puppies, you were set on living as a cool aunt who'd only appear on reunions bearing the coolest gifts. That is until Yoongi made you think otherwise.
Genre:Â Fluff, talks about marriage, Idol!Yoongi
entry
In Love and War (myg) (ongoing)
Progress: 2/3
entry/part 2
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Kim Seokjin
In Love and War (ksj)Â (ongoing)
Progress: 1/3
Drafting: Part 2
Disclaimer: This is a work of fiction. This work does not reflect the true character of the real-life persons mentioned.
Yoongixreader; idol!au; romance
Part 2/3
Part 2
The next day at work was stressful.
Rumors got around that you were hooking up with the myg. This led to you, here, fidgeting on your seat in Mr. Bang's office.
You watched him as he massaged the side of his head. The first words he uttered to break the deafening silence was, "Is it true?"
Already knowing what he's talking about, you did not dare to play fool, "No."
The firmness in your voice took him aback. "That's what everyone's talking about right now. At least in the Company. I'm sure the incident will not leak, but rumors about your relationship will do slip through."
"Also, these are the pictures we confiscated from Wrath," he followed through, distributing different photographs of you and Yoongi on different occassions. Most were just on a restaurant, some were just when he invites you for a stroll along the Han River, and there was this one time when he fetched you from your place. All of which would be a dating scandal for sure if they fell on the wrong hands.
Your heartbeat raced out of your ribcage. This could mean the end of your job. You love the work's flexibility and creativity. It is a reputable company and if you will be dismissed because of indecency...
"No. It's a misunderstanding. Yoongi and I are close friends but he's my boss first, I mean I was assigned to his team, basically making him my boss. Anyway, that's us okay, but we were not in a romantic relationship. We do have a relationship, as friends? We casually hangout, yes. And those pictures, some of them were even taken two years ago. Until now, we're just friends. What is wrong with that?"
"Were you with other people?"
"I- no. Is that a big deal?"
"Y/n."
"I know," you blurted out. You find it difficult to put words together. This is why you told him that you'll stop seeing him if ever things do blow off. You didn't want to do that to him. He's a great person despite his persona. He's annoying most of the time, but that's just him on the surface. You got to know him eventually, he deserves to have a normal relationship outside of work without other people giving it a different meaning.
"It's just that it's unfair to fire me over this. I'm beyond capable--"
"Hold on, who's firing who?" Mr. Bang interrupted.
You clasped your hands tighter and replied, "Am I not being fired?"
For once, his serious face showed a glint of amusement. He laughed, "Who told you that?"
"I thought, I mean, you did call for me."
"'Cause I want to hear the truth from you," he responded. "And if you're telling me that you're not romantically involved with him..." Mr. Bang let out a chuckle and shook his head as if there the whole thing is ridiculously funny.
You did not say anything and waited. Mr. Bang gaped but recollected himself right away. "Okay, I believe you. You may go back to work now."
Sighing in relief, you've been wanting to ask if that's all of it, however you weren't the type to nudge things around when doing so would not make things in your favor. So you let it go. The most important part here is you still got a job. Your mortgage won't pay itself.
---
Instead of eating in the cafeteria, you chose to have your food delivered in your office. You could not stand the stares you've been receiving the whole day, then the faint whispering as soon as they're on your back. So much for being subtle.
Then there came a knock on the door.
"Come in," you commanded, eyes not leaving your computer screen.
"Hey,"
Yoongi.
You stopped what you're doing and turned your attention completely at him. He seemed just came out from practice.
"Hey," you replied. "Take your seat, how can I help?"
He brushed his palms on his trousers before walking slowly towards your table, taking his seat. You watched as his adam's apple bobbed before he opened his mouth to say something.
But there came no word or sound. So he tried again, "You ran out yesterday. I was wondering--"
"Oh yeah right. Sorry, I don't, you know I'm not good with people. It was a knee-jerk reaction," you explained yourself, feeling shy about your behavior. With a deep breath, you continued, "I was supposed to talk to you yesterday. About your plans?" you trailed off.
"What about it?"
"You were clearly not amiable to any of my proposal,"
"I'm not. It's not the direction I want to head on to."
"Can you walk me through the direction you want? So that my work would be more relevant and aligned."
"I just want to continue whatever I'm doing now. No need for changes."
"Mr. Min. We've reached the flat line. Theoretically, the next point will be downwards."
"This industry is a roller-coaster Y/n. You can't exactly predict what will happen."
"I'm aware of that, but how else can we see ahead?" you trailed off, before continuing, "Min Yoongi, there are a lot of people looking up to you. Millions are looking forward to see you perform, to know more than you're letting on, the crowd is still excited to see what you have up on your sleeve."
He sighed, not out of frustration, but of resignation, "There's nothing more."
It was a hard pill to swallow, hearing it from him made you sad. He's more than a subject to you, at some point, you also became a fan of his work and you still want to see more in the future. However, at the moment, you realized he doesn't need you as a woman on the chair nor a fan, he needs you as his friend.
"Yoongi," you carefully treaded, "Everything's up to you. Whatever that is, I think you deserve it. Also, it's okay to take a break. It doesn't mean quitting. No matter how long would that take."
He raised a brow, "You guys are not giving me any,"
You pursed your lips and inhaled at the jab, "I'm sorry. I can help you talk it out with Mr. Bang or you can ask your manager about it," you reached out, but with a scheme forming at the back of your head.
"Investors will pull out," he countered.
"I'm sure they can deal with that," you assured him.
Then he asked, "Will you come with me?"
"I--" that one took you by surprise. The lines between work, patronage, and friendship continuing to blur around the edges. "I'll see if I can make some arrangements," you replied.
---
Moments later, you feel like a mom accompanying your child to the principal's office. Yoongi went straight to the point as if he's only reminding Mr. Bang about the weather yesterday, like how the sun was too hot on his skin so he decided to stay in for the day.
"You can go on a break, but you should also get your shoulder checked," Mr. Bang lightly replied. You noticed how the topic is not too big of a deal when you thought that the matter should be discussed carefully. For sure they have talked about this many times already.
"That's not going on a break. Come on," Yoongi complained, his mouth subtly pursing in a pout.
Mr. Bang leaned back on his chair, retaliating, "It's hitting two birds with one stone."
"You just want me to stay within the city."
The CEO nodded once, "That too, but don't I make a point? It's the same as looking after your health, besides you complained lately that the shots are not enough. You've gone through therapy sessions too."
You eyed Yoongi, unknowingly plastering concern on your face. He's a homebody, for sure his break won't include any rigorous physical activity. You wonder how serious his shoulder issue is. He seemed fine on his stage last week.
You carefully and slowly butted in, "Yoongi's schedule's packed for the next two months, then while he's on a break, I might put some rework on my team's proposal." going with the tactic that may snuck in your ulterior motive. Yes, you said he could get a break. You didn't tell him when. You know this information since understanding your subject matter is part of the requirements of your proposal.
Knowing Yoongi, he grew a lot, he's not the type of guy who scurries away from responsibilities anymore. He can be a choosy-lucy sometimes, but he'll do it anyway, excellently.
He sent daggers your way as if saying he could see through your betrayal. Then his lips slowly rose to a smirk, "Why not start the rework now?" he blurted out.
"Let's finish that so you and I could have a break after. Then I'll revisit some doctors while I'm on it," he explained.
Mr. Bang was quite surprised with his sudden amiable stance, "Okay, then we're good! I'll ask your manager to book appointments for you,"
"I'm not following, I still have to oversee the newly launched group's trajectories, I have some of our actors requesting to consult with me." Those are on top of your administrative tasks. 60 days will be too tight to attend on other team's projects.
"Am I not the priority? I think you need to go with me when I'm on my schedule--"
"Which is like everyday? I have other work to do also--"
"--so you could properly draft your deck. Haven't you thought of feasibility study before chucking in stuff in my professional life?"
"I'm your angle on an audience perspective,"
"That's the thing, you lack perspectives."
Your jaw went slack at his remark.
---
Your legs grew tired fast. As much as he's being led in and out of studios, broadcasting stations, theaters, and shoot locations, his team might have climbed the Namsan tower and back with all the walking involved in his schedule. Whenever you see Yoongi lazing around in the Company, you thought he had it easy with his class A status.
Regardless, you find it pointless, joining his entourage. The tasks that have pended and the juniors you have to teach doubled because your or Yoongi's schedule rather couldn't make room for your own workload.
His schedule became yours. You grit your teeth at the thought.
You almost bumped Nara, his stylist, when she suddenly halted. Looking around, you noticed everyone else did. Silently catching your breath, you waited for them to walk again. This was his third schedule for the day, it was a recording session of some of his collabs he's exploring.
Nara turned to you and tilted her head in a direction. Your eyes followed her movement and saw a make-shift aisle with Yoongi at the head.
"Why are you lagging behind? Come here," he instructed, his tone similar to the one you've heard he used on Holly, his dog.
You nearly combusted, you feel your nerves popping by your temples.
"Ms. Y/n?" he taunted.
--
By the time the recording was finished, it was already eight in the evening. You were able to breathe as you found the four hour waiting time convenient. You took your laptop and replied to your emails which quickly piled up given that you've been away from your desk for three days.
You were able to review some deck materials of others' data-drill teams of other artists and groups. The productivity made you feel lighter.
People were loading in their respective vans to go home when you heard Yoongi call for you. He was on his limo van beside yours.
"Where are you going? I'm not yet done for the day, they'll go back to the HQ, so you ride with me."
Having no time to ask questions, your van's driver have shut the door in your face.
You sat on the empty captain seat beside him reluctantly. The leather chair was cushioned enough to cocoon yourself. His van's interior looked spacious due to the high ceiling. It's easy to determine that even at a standing position, you could comfortably stand inside the vehicle.
Pulling on the seatbelt, you felt the vehicle hum to life before it took a reverse.
The lights were dimmed to warm yellow, glinting on the upholstered interior. The walls were lined with varnished wood and black leather, the blinds were closed, and you thought it's unnecessary given how the windows were heavily tinted. On a second thought, Yoongi's van was as if to mimic a room. You turned around and found his working equipment at the back and high-end speakers were at the corners.
You feel tired, but voicing that out would be inappropriate, seeing how Yoongi tries to sneak in some sleep while on the road.
Opening your journal to add on the notes you had for the day, you scribbled, keen on collaborations to explore and produce different genres --- content: sharing the creative process??? birth of a song...
You tapped your pen on the leatherbound notebook as you brainstormed ideas,
"That's a good one, but that's supposed to be a secret," he whispered by your ear, his breath tickling you all of a sudden. You leaned away in surprise.
Raising a brow at him, you replied, "Well of course that's why we have editors for that. You can also review it if you like prior to their release."
He hummed, then startlingly took your journal away.
"Hey!" you protested.
"Let's see what you have here," he teased as his eyes darted around the journal to browse your notes. You on the other hand reached out for it to stop him. "Yoongi!" he chuckled as he faced away from you taking the note with him. "Wait! I want to see," he replied.
"No, they're just, they're rougher than rough drafts! Give me it!" you scolded and your hands were all on him but the seatbelt were restricting you too much.
"Bringing the fans backstage? You want them to see me naked?" he questioned.
"There will be logistics to address that, tsk, Yoongi. Hand.it.over."
You unbuckled yourself from the seat and stalked towards him. Glaring at the thief, you snatched your notebook away from his prying hands. The relinquishment was successful until the van jolted into a stop, messing up your balance.
His eyes widened as he reflexively put his arms around you, making you fall onto his lap.
You both grunted at the impact of your bodies clashing together, his breath fanning your face.
His hands snugged perfectly at your sides, it was just a fraction of a second before he guided you to stand up.
Yoongi slid down his hold from your waist back to your forearms, helping you steady yourself. "Go back to your seat and wear your seatbelt," he said. You exhaled and followed suit, carrying your belonging.
"Yes, sir," you sarcastically replied.
It didn't pass by you but his eyes darkened at your response.
You were basically exhausted by the time you arrived at his penthouse. You expected it to be bigger, but his place is very straight to the point. A short hallway with a huge blue abstract painting occupied the left wall, you turned right and the path opened to his living room. Yoongi went to the door and it revealed his studio.
The space was soundproofed and it was pretty similar to his studio in the company.
"Take a seat," he gestured towards the couch before he proceeded to his chair and opened up his computer.
Monitor screens occupied the wall as if it was a futuristic cockpit. You would love to spread your excel data sheets there all at once. You've bet it will be beautiful.
You stood a foot behind his enormous chair as he clackered away on his mouse and keyboard. Then he said, "This is what I'm working on,"
Those were the last words you remember he said before he got absorbed into working in his music. Minutes passed and as if he forgot you were even there. The way he experimented with the reverb on the bass surrounded you in a cocoon, making you fall asleep.
It took you a few moments to realize where you are. You slept on your subject.
Fuck.
That was rude of you. You abruptly stood up and frantically folded the sheets, fluffing the pillow and piling them up on the corner of the couch.
You scurried out only to find Yoongi in his oversized shirt and trousers. His hair is still wet and there's a towel hung around his shoulder.
He looked at you and for a second, you noticed how clear his eyes are, if you're not used to his passiveness, you almost mistook his gaze for curiosity.
"Ah, good morning," you greeted, listless.
--
"Is it true?" Lesley asked. You got a break from being on the field since Yoongi's schedule stays in the HQ building. This led you to slip away from his team and actually go to yours. Looks like it was a bad call when everyone just wants to extract information from you.
"You're in a relationship with... with goat?" she whispered carefully.
I want to skin him alive. Sometimes.
"Employer-employee relationship, yes," you tastelessly replied.
"I mean,"
"And if so, does that matter concern you? But for your peace of mind, we're not. It was an accident, people misunderstood it and shaded colors on the situation," you snapped.
Lesley wheeled her chair closer to your space. For a second, it might have been smarter to stay in your own office rather than working on the hotel table. Others also wheeled in and it was your male co-worker this time that spoke, "It's not only about that dressing room incident, some people saw you having frequent dinners together. Just the two of you."
Lesley nodded eagerly.
You replied, "We're friends."
They both raised a brow at each other.
You rolled your eyes, "I'm being honest here--"
"We saw him visit you in your office. Alone."
"I work under his team," you justified.
"Alone," she emphasized.
"Twice," you played down.
Then the dude corrected, "A handful. But I'm being quiet about it," Lesley gasped and squealed. Nearby people looked at her outburst.
"Lesley!" you whispered angrily.
"Y/n?" Yoongi's voice made you sit straight.
"Speaking of," your male co-worker muttered under his breath while he wheeled his and Lesley's chairs away from you.
You cleared your throat and stood up, "Sir," you greeted to acknowledge his presence.
Yoongi scrunched his forehead in confusion at the salutation, but he went on,
"Dinner?"
You heard collective gasps around you. Mostly from Lesley. And a snicker from that guy you barely know. Maybe he's been around for only a month now?
"I-- what? Why? I mean," you distractedly rambled.
Yoongi shifted on his place, "It's Wednesday. We already skipped last week?"
You swallowed your nervousness. It is only now that you can see why other people would misunderstand. So you tried your best to set your boundaries.
"Actually, I can't right now. I'm swamped."
"I can wait,"
"Let's, I'm, I'll just get something in my office."
"Okay,"
After shutting the door, you faced him, "I feel bad about doing this to you. You became my friend as much as you annoy the hell out of me. But I think we need a break to protect your image."
"I don't need a break," he defended. "What? It's none of their business who I eat dinner with."
"And your words! Now I understand why some people would misunderstand, including Mr. Bang! He already asked me about my romantic relationship with you,"
"What?"
"Yeah, he asked if the rumors were true and of course I said no."
"What?"
"You don't need to worry about it, that's clear now. It's not that you'll get fired over it, I'll be the one who'll be axed because you're the revenue generator and I'm on the support line. Don't worry, he didn't fire me over it,"
By the time you were rambling on, no words were digested by his brain. He was still processing the fact that you thought you were not in a romantic relationship with him and that everything was a one-sided pining.
Yoongi laughed hysterically, his shoulders shook, gums showing, his eyes glinting, but his brows were scrunched in a way that it was not a pleasant laugh. He feels insulted.
"I--" he muttered but he let out a few nore laugh he couldn't contain.
"I'm speechless, Y/n. Wow," he shook his head in disbelief.
"Do you think someone would block their Wednesday nights and call you whenever the weekend's free? I thought--
--God, you're unbelievable.
--No, I'm unbelievable.
--I'm delusional and hysterical. I thought we're..."
"Oh," you whispered at the discovery. You don't know what to feel. The situation's quite embarassing for you. How could you not know?
"Oh?" he parroted at a louder voice.
"I'm not initiating skinship because I respect your boundaries, that's why I make an effort to get to know you personally, I make an effort to talk to you. It's not that I'm counting but I gave you gifts even if it's not your birthday, I give you a ride whenever I can, I send you meals in the middle of your day, you're the densest person I know! Even my manager knows I have a thing for you!"
"You didn't tell me," you retaliated.
He was dumbfounded. "God, I'm supposed to hate you right now but I'm finding you irresistably cute. I'm a freak. I'm out of my mind. I like you! I still do!"
"I," you scratched your head, leaving the side of your hair messy. Yoongi took a step towards your personal space, he pat down your disarrayed area of hair before tucking a stray strand behind your ear. "I don't know how stupid this genius of a brain can get. I like you, you fool." he muttered under his breath while sarcastically chuckling.
With furrowed brows, he rested a palm on the side of your face. "Look at me,"
You turned your head down and muttered, "I can't."
"What do you mean?"
"I, I really don't see you that way, Yoongi. You're my boss first. That's weird."
"Really?"
"I can't. You should have told me clearly at first. I haven't had a boyfriend or even a suitor, so how would I know? I've been thinking of you as a boss who's also a friend. It was a work relationship from my point of view."
Yes, he or both of you, did all those things but you've known each other for so long and his acts of kindness were too spread far apart for you to even give meaning to them. To be fair, he's been always on his world tour, he would be only in the country for a month or few.
Yoongi sighed defeatedly and uttered, "Fuck," as he sat on your table, his arms propped on his sides. He hung his head low and you couldn't utter another word as you just stood there, looking at his defeated stance, and scanned the way his veins strained along his forearms as he gripped the edge of the table.
Now that he confessed, he realized that he fucked everything up. Now, you won't hang out with him knowing he has caught feelings and you're not on the same page. Knowing you, you'll avoid any situation to hangout with him. Just so you could spare him from developing deeper emotions and hope that he'll move on eventually. All this time, he thought that somehow you knew and being a cool person that he knows, you were just being chill.
You're fucking too chill and dense.
Yes. That's you. How could he not realize that. Well, now he was reminded. It's like adding two and two together and the answer is simply staring at him straight in the face, confused, and have a fucking platonic view of him.
The MYG.
The GOAT.
The man who have received millions of wedding proposals from all over the world.
And yet, the woman he pines for doesn't return his interest.
Disclaimer:
This is a work of fiction. This work does not reflect the true character of the real-life persons mentioned. Also, I do not own the picture above (though this picture owns me. Like, who isn't?!?!)
Yoongixreader; idol!au; romance
Part 1/3
At the time when most people are asleep, save for some who is swamped by table summaries which are to be presented later at the same day-
Labor was not your dream, but here you are, crunching nine zeroes for the capitalists. Who would have thought that real life could be this lucrative? Who would have thought creativity thrives in datasets and equations?
Almost everything could be translated into numbers.
1 for yes
0 for no
The scent of brewing coffee proliferated the space, it mixed with the fishy smell of cup noodles at three a.m. The AC was on full blast but you could feel your body sweat in self-generated body heat.
When was the last time you took a bath?
Wetting your hair feels like washing away all the equations and tasks listed in your head. The coolness and refreshing feel of shower is not ideal right now that the presentation deadline is just around the corner. Specifically, later, in the morning.
If it wasn't just your late realization on some additional factors that could be significant on your projection, you wouldn't be this hairy oily mess. You blame your stupid brain for gearing up to be smart enough at the last minute.
If it were someone else, they could have just go through as planned, but not you. You hate doing things half-assed.
If there's something to milk out of the cow, you'll squeeze the tits high and dry.
In this case, that cow is Min Yoongi. Producer /Â Songwriter / Rapper / Singer / Model / Influencer / The GOAT - not only of the Company you work for, but also of the industry he works in.
On that thought, cow isn't a fitting comparison.
"Hey, you're still here?"
Your ears perked up at the sudden noise that cut through your silent working space.
You found Min Yoongi, a.k.a the Greatest of All Time, by the door. His forehead scrunched as he sniffed the foul smell of your office.
"Do you live here?" he asked further.
You stood up from your swivel chair and subtly squirmed at the peeling off of your skin that has been in contact with the leather for hours.
"For the past three days, yes. Don't you dare report me to HR. They might ask me for my rent," you replied as you stretched out your spine and limbs.
Without an invite from your end, he welcomed himself to your temporary home. Yoongi shut the door without taking off his gaze full of disgust and judgment. He eyed you head to toe and back. Mismatched slippers on your feet, to your hideous elephant pants, faded brown oversized tee which matched your nest of a hair because to him you utterly looked like crap.
"Go home. You must. Look at you," he reprimanded as he waved a hand to your direction.
"I'm almost done. Just one last check, making sure everything's good for the deck later. I'm gonna blow your mind," you replied, a smug grin plastered on your face.
He let out a chuckle, "You're blowing my mind already," he retaliated.
"I mean look at you, I, myself, couldn't stand this sight."
You clenched your teeth for the uncalled backhanded compliment.
Taking in a deep breath, you closed your eyes and reminded yourself that you're talking to the man who provides food on your table, a roof over your head, and satiates your strange addiction to the smell of new glossy colored books of anything under the sun.
Hardbound and thick ones.
Just like his attitude.
You faked a smile, and bowed down, "Mr. Min, thank you for your uncalled concern. I'll be heading home in a while."
Yoongi shifted his stance and cooly offered, "You can hitch a ride. I'm about to head home too."
He's quite a workaholic himself, but your dedication's still unmatched.
You waved your hands in front of you, shaking your head, "No, I'm alright, Mr. Min. My stench would only irritate you. You should be able to relax as you wind down. Both of us had a busy day, but I'm sure yours was more hectic seeing that you're still here at-"
The digital desk clock switched to display 4:00 a.m.
"-four in the morning."
Yoongi didn't back down right away. He weighed his options first before taking a step back.
From a concerned boss, his judging face came back before taking a step away.
"Okay, if you say so," he conceded before turning around.
He twisted the door open and stepped out of your office as he uttered a silent goodbye.
"Mm, yes, take care boss!" you politely greeted back.
Working with Min Yoongi has been easier as years go by. At first, he was in doubt of your capabilities. In all fairness, who would believe that data analysts could be of help in entertainment industry? He creates and put it out there and wait for people's reaction. If it works, then good, if it doesn't then he could try again on the next album release.
While you acknowledge that life is indeed full of trials and errors, perusing all the information at hand does not hurt. It works as a hedge in times of failure, and works as a catapult in times of success.
Soar high, fall with a plush on your ass.
That's the company's trade secret. They're willing to spend millions on data to gain billions.
They spend their money smartly on you. Though your six-digit monthly salary is not that obvious with your choice of clothing, people would gape at the fixtures and books in your penthouse.
That painting that occupied most of your foyer wall? You spent a million on that. It's a good investment though. The resell value is high.
The books that lined up your hallway crossed out the need for paint or decorations.
The sofa, oh, fine Italian leather that's expensive as your car.
You fell asleep on that couch and blacked out. You always do.
Apparently, three alarms were not enough to wake up a sleeping log like you.
That's why you almost slipped in the marbled bathroom to freshen up decently in five minutes. Showered in perfume, and slipped in to your formal suit.
Tying your hair into a bun is the easiest option.
Still, you made it 10 minutes before the meeting.
You barely slept, but the excitement to share the outcome of your research gave you an adrenaline rush.
You looked alive despite the bags under your eyes.
An alive dehydrated panda.
If there's such a thing.
But no panda will be as small as you, given that zookeepers do watch their weight. All pandas you've seen are all fluffy, while you look...
dehydrated
freeze-dried
Anyway, you could care less. You're friends with your fitness coach who you haven't seen in three months, and your dermatologist who you haven't seen in six months. They could play fairy grandmother once you're free.
That means getting the board and the management to give your brilliant project a Go.
Watching Yoongi stroll in the conference room made you nervous a bit. You'll be talking about his career progression after all. You smiled at him as you take in his effortlessly chic outfit. You chose the right artist to work for. Only Yoongi could pull off an all black suit and steel framed eyeglasses and still look like a superstar instead of a businessman.
You're barely a people-person, but converting human behavior into numbers made it easier for you to fulfill your line of work. As important people filed in, you eyed your team on the side of the room as you gesture for them to give the deck materials.
Those papers were still quite hot as they just got printed this morning by your associate. They panicked when they learned you tweaked at the last minute but assured them you got them covered.
That's the downside of working with you. You deliver exemplary works, but you're a bad boss.
You haven't asked for a team really.
But Mr. Bang, the CEO, was quite keen on it. It didn't help much since you still worked until 4 am just a while ago.
As the meeting started, you gradually become excited as you go through the presentation. At the peak of it all, after presenting them the demographics of the fan base, the casual audience, and the target public, you excitingly showed them the graph version of your artist's discography vs. album sales.
Yoongi shifted uncomfortably on his seat as he eyed the steep incline on the screen.
"However, let's take a look here." You prompted before your associate proceeded on the next slide. A zoom in on his last three albums.
You shifted your stance as you pointed out, "We do have a steep curve, but the past three are on the flatter side. Ceteris paribus-"
Mr. Bang cleared his throat and you knew what that meant,
"If we continue in our direction, without changing anything, and not considering other unexpected factors, we will not be able to maximize and use to our advantage the untapped audience."
"We have 25 million users but the engagement is at 30%. This peaks at 60% when the artist releases content--"
"People do have their own lives," Yoongi interrupted but you did not let him disturb your practiced speech.
"This is worse than four years ago when we garnered more promising engagement--"
"People do grow up and have jobs," he interrupted again which by now turned some heads away from your deck and directed to him.
"With all due respect Mr. Min," you diverted to his direction, facing away from the powerpoint.
You took a deep breath, before starting, "I'm here to maximize your potential,"
He scoffed, "Are you my voice coach?"
That left you silent.
Yoongi's mouth formed a silent "Oh,"
"Maybe you're my runway coach? Art director? Publicist?"
"No?" he added further in a mocking tone.
You pursed your lips in a straight line, looking around the table to get somebody's defense. Your gaze finally settled on Mr. Bang.
He's not meeting anyone's stare, but browsed through the next pages of the material.
"My point here is," Yoongi declared, "I'm an artist first, Ms. Y/n, I create. Spontaneously. I do respect your numbers, but don't you think focusing on these takes away my authenticity as a person? You do forget that people vie for my honesty."
More like tolerating his attitude, you want to mutter under your breath but stopped yourself from doing so by gripping your fists by your sides.
"Let her finish. I find these projects interesting. Magazine interviews..."
Yoongi scoffed, "I've done that already,"
"But they're all limited to your music," you retorted.
With a flair of both of his hands, Yoongi reasoned out "Because I'm a musician, what else should I talk about?"
Mr. Bang then went back to reading out loud from the short bickering of the two of you, "Socials and fundraising parties, talk shows guesting, tell me about them, Y/n."
Yoongi answered before letting you, "I'm a performer, not some sort of personality."
"You are a personality, whether you like it or not. You're mysterious and people like that, but to keep them intrigued we have to let them peek at your personal life. People wants someone they can resonate with, or at least someone who inspires them in the middle of the mundane. As much as they do love your music, we will gain more if you let them have a peek," you defended.
"I'm in this industry for ten years. They've seen it all, Y/n."
"Not quite," you retaliated.
"They haven't seen you as an adult. They see you as a performer, yes. As I said, people love following personalities they can reach, even though vicariously, even if just on surface level brain stimulations. We give them understanding, comfort, healing, that's what the company is all about."
"Look, you can continue your own creative process, but you just need to put yourself more out there. Press loves stories. Intriguing, good, bad ones. For a celebrity, you sure do love to keep to yourself."
"It's called privacy."
"While being a public figure?"
"There are boundaries."
"And we're looking for expansion of those boundaries. We can compromise. We have to. There are other celebrities who are willing to do more. We can't just keep on dropping big bombs once in a while. Small consistent contents will ball up like a snowball and will have a greater impact on your stability in the industry."
"I know you already made a name. We just have to squeeze it dry."
Yoongi visibly flinched at your metaphor. Regardless, you continued,
"You're an artist. Great artists take risks. At this point, we're doing a well-calculated risk, and there is no measure to how this will turn out but the projection looks good. Show them the chart, Lesley," you told your team.
"The only thing we can do is take it. There's no perfect science, but we have to try it out and see where it will lead us."
"It shows desperation, Y/n."
"It shows strategic business plan while giving you an avenue to challenge your creative process and authenticity. We will lift the contract off with Wrath, let their paparazzis swarm, we will save millions and divert 20% of that funds to your security," you rifled on.
"What's there to hide Yoongi? You're a clean person as far as we know,"
As far as you know
He clenched his fists, teeth gritting, at your proposal.
You could have told him you don't want to see him anymore.
What would happen to his Wednesday dinners with you?
The occasional getaways if you were kind enough to not work on long weekends. He must be the busy one in the relationship given that he's the biggest star in the Company. Turns out the kingmaker's the real star of the show, working behind the scenes, on the sidelines, crunching and nerding out on lines and graphs.
He has come this far while protecting his privacy. Yoongi always get away with the excuse that it's part of his image. Being mysterious. When in fact, he only enjoys the animosity when there are no cameras when he's with you. It's not that he's ashamed of the relationship he has, it was because you made it clear with him, that all this will end if everything blows up in the press.
Mr. Bang cleared his throat as he rested his chin on his folded fingers. He carefully threw you a look before the scrutinizing gaze landed on his most prized talent. It was a fraction of a second when he realized he got his two best people batting heads in front of the board and officers.
"Y/n is right," the vice chair voiced out. "I second," said someone from the board.
The rest of the men and women on the long conference table nodded in agreement. Some of them hopefully looking at Yoongi.
"Besides, whether it's a good or bad image, publicity is publicity. We need to give something new for the country to talk about. They're interested in you, but they do respect your personal space most of the time," said one of the talent heads.
Mr. Bang spoke up, "How can we make sure Wrath will not release any of their wildcards against Yoongi?" he voiced out, looking at the Legal counsel.
"It's in the contract. Any materials on the artist enclosed within the contract period must be held with strict confidentiality. We are imposing grave penalty once they violate it if ever we decide to terminate the protection deal."
Mr. Bang nodded, "I'm absolutely sure that our artist is clean and does not have any criminal records. His school records are clean. We have filed them," he assured everyone on the table.
Someone chuckled and raised, "More than that, he's the most sought after bachelor. For sure everone's dying to know who he's dating."
You unknowingly took a step back as you listen to them exchanging opinions.
On the other hand, Yoongi is visibly not pleased with any part of the meeting.
"That's a private matter of our artist," Mr. Bang defended.
The person shrugged and quoted, "As Y/n said, he's a public figure. His life is meant to be under the public eye. It's not offensive at all if you ask me--"
"No one's asking for your opinion," Yoongi jabbed, the table fell silent.
"I don't agree with this. You will move at my own pace. If you can't ride with me, I can easily switch management." He declared with finality before walking out of the board room with his manager following suit and apologizing on his behalf.
A loud sigh escaped Mr. Bang's lips.
He took over the meeting and told everyone, "Y/n's idea is promising. We just need another meeting to discuss it while I'll talk to Yoongi for the mean time."
Everyone nodded in satisfaction before they started filing out of the room.
You stayed behind together with your team. Mr. Bang turned his chair to face you. "Please leave me with Y/n," he ordered your team.
The boardroom's door clicked shut before Mr. Bang started, "Thank you, Y/n. It was a wonderful presentation, though I wished I get to hear the end of it. I will review the deck and I'll get back to you. I do have a gist of what you're proposing, but..." he trailed off before tilting his head to one side as he tried to put together the words, "I see you haven't talked to Yoongi about it."
"Mr. Bang, I didn't because everything was not finalized until the last minute. Actually, same projects were retained but I thought diverting the angle on the important numbers and emphasizing these would bring light to the why of things. I only wish the best for his career. If you actually look at slide 25, you'll see the age distribution of the population, we're gathering young ones still despite his tenor in the show business. I looked deeper into the age bracket A and found that, based on consumer and entertainment index, lifestyle was the most common interest with other age groups. It is the strongest suit and tapping into this interest-"
"He wants to retire, Y/n," Mr. Bang uttered silently.
The news shocked you. Retirement was not in his vocabulary. He's been saying how he would perform on stage until he's all wrinkly and wonky. That's how much he loves his job as an artist and as a performer. Though you have noticed how he picked up on some collaborations involving his hands on its productions, performing his own work is still incomparable.
"The crowd just gives me so much energy. Most time I don't even know where I am, what timezone I'm in, but each stage feels surreal, new, it never gets old. I think I'll do this until I can't anymore," you remember him saying one time.
So it then became your purpose to help him achieve that dream. Now that he doesn't want it, out of the blue, perplexes you.
Your heart dropped to the pit of your stomach. You can't put a name on your emotions as of the moment. It was a mix of anger and betrayal, irritation and all negative things. He never told you, not that he's obligated to, but with the relationship you had with him, you thought he'll trust you enough to tell those things.
On second thought, it is a private matter. You have no say on what he wants, if retirement was his plan then okay.
But not without you talking him out of it.
-----
It was freezingly cold in the studio and music was blasting together with the random beeps of camera shutter.
You were waiting for Yoongi to finish his schedule before he ends his day. It was in the middle of the week, the time when his photoshoots are usually scheduled. You mostly meet him too after for dinner, having formed a relationship with him. It was a good timing to bring up what happened and what you learned in that meeting the other day. You could have texted him, but that would be unprofessional of you. Besides, it's a work matter.
Crossing your arms by your chest, you observed him from afar. His long and messy hair surely suits him. His cheekbones were highlighted, giving a chiseling effect on the hollow of his jaw and cheeks. Yoongi pocketed a hand, his thumb out, before swaying his body lazily to change his body angle. You unknowingly smiled. In a proud way. He always do things in an elaborate manner while appearing effortless.
He caught your gaze, so you gave him an acknowledging nod. What he did next was unexpected. He paused the shoot, by raising his hand, before jogging to you. It left you flustered and suddenly anxious from all the attention you're getting. Everyone's gaze were on you, or rather on Yoongi. Eyes would always follow his every move.
You shifted, starting to feel uncomfortable being part of everyone's field of vision just because the Star is in front of you, sharing the same space as yours.
"You done with work?" he casually said, unaffected by the curious stares he's receiving.
You shook your head no before finding your voice, "Please finish your shoot, don't mind me, I can wait."
His brows furrowed in confusion before his gaze became softer, "Okay, you can wait in my dressing room," he said to you and it was your turn to be confused. You met his gaze, but he averted his, making you thought he got shy for a bit.
"I can't concentrate with you watching my shoot. I'm not used to it," he muttered, the confession was meant to be heard only by you.
"Oh,"
"Okay," you nodded before turning your back on him and headed straight out of the studio.
As you walked through the hallway, you reprimanded yourself for not being able to think of that alternative. You rarely met him in his personal space, so it didn't really occur to you.
You didn't wait too long, you saw him walking towards the door of his room twenty minutes after. Pushing yourself off the wall, you greeted him with a curt bow. He looked surprised finding you outside.
"Why are you here? I told you to wait inside," he told you before ushering you in.
"Ah, that would be inappropriate. It's okay," you assured him.
He shrugged off of his coat outfit, leaving him in his black shirt. You watched him as he brushed his long hair back and was about to undo his pants before he remembered you were in the room. You quickly turned around, heading to the door. "I'm sorry! I... why are you changing in front of me? I'll wait outside, I--" you rambled as you hurry off, opening the door.
"Y/n! Wait!" he tried to stop you but it was too late.
Shock registered in everyone's faces, from Yoongi's manager, his assistant, makeup artist, stylist, and everyone else on his team. They glanced at Yoongi who was in the middle of undoing his pants and at you whose face were flushed red.
They quickly scurried away while one of them shut the door close as they shouted their apologies.
tags: idol!au, fake dating trope, enemies-to-lovers
status: Ongoing (1/3)
It was that kind of Friday night (more like Saturday morning). You drank two shots too many, stayed on the dancefloor one minute too long, before the floor started spinning on your feet, or maybe you were.
Or maybe it's the number on your suite's door
Or your keycard's the one's floating
Or maybe the key slot's pulling a prank on you, avoiding your aim as you slam the damn card in.
You stumbled, the knob swinging down like magic.
"I'm never gonna drink again," you grumbled. A recurring resolution that floats in your mind which would be gone and forgotten as soon as you dive in your bed for the night.
Part 1
Having projects in LA is much more fun. You get to party and run around without scrutinizing eyes. Although you do miss the coldness of Seoul, the sun and the smell of weed in random corners of Hollywood is like an adventure in your backyard.
Your manager might kill you tomorrow, but you're quite sure that the alcohol will wear off by the time you board the plane back home. Or maybe not. That would make sleep easier to come though.
After the fashion week in New York, 4 weeks were spent in the west coast for several shoots and shows. You'll fly back home and do projects again for a month before going to Dubai, then Paris, for runway shows.
You never found modelling glamourous. When you were starting, you spent a whole day waiting in line just for you to walk for less than 5 seconds. Most times you get to wait out in the cold or in a humid heat, just for you to get snubbed and scrutinized for being too meaty, too thin, too tall, not small enough, not a blank canvas, too sharp, too soft.
You learned to not take those snide comments and backhanded compliments too seriously. Over time.
You got to be confident in your bare skin and embrace each curve and freckle and stretchmark. If you only knew how confidence could boost your presence, you could've worked on it when you were just starting.
Cold air grazed against your exposed skin. In contrast to LA's hot weather, their air-condition is freezingly too much. You squirmed and took refuge in the warmth of your duvet and pillow. It's odd and warmer than you're used to but you're not complaining. The blanket have somehow wounded around your body, cocooning you in a warm embrace.
"Happy birthday!!!"
Shouts and cheers jolted you awake, but it shortly ended up in screams of horror and surprise as you relayed frantic glances to different pairs of eyes.
"Turn the live off!"
"Jin hyung! We agreed on behaving!"
"How many saw that?"
"Who the heck are you?!"
"I don't know! Why are you in my room?!" you defensively replied. "Who are you, people?!" you freaked out.
"They're my members! And that's our camera director!"
"Oh my god my head's aching," you groaned and bent forward, cradling your pounding head in your arms.
It was then when you recognized the familiar faces you just saw. Everyone knows them.
You sighed when you realized you were still in your tank top and underwear.
"Who sent you here?" Jin asked, perplexed, his arms were folded against his chest in a defensive stance. You took offense at his action, making you scoff.
"This is my room. I know I'm getting quite an attention in the runway scene but you... you..."
you couldn't continue the accusation you were formulating because heck, why would he, a global star, would sneak his way into your suite, unless,
"You're a pervert stalker!"
He gasped and his brows furrowed. You could almost see smoke puffing out of his ears as his face flushed with red fury.
"You're in my suite! You're the pervert stalker!" he shouted back.
A stout man then stormed in the room, his eyes alarmed. "What's happening here? Who are you? Seize her!" he shouted orders after tall men in black filed in.
"What would you do to me? Back off! I'll sue you!"
The man replied, "You should've known better before pulling this kind of stunt to my artist. You'll go to jail."
You shook your head and frustration seeped through you at how you felt misunderstood and ganged up on. You further backed away from one of them reaching out to you. "Call my manager! I'm not some freak psycho who's after any of you. I'm famous too, you know!"
You're not the kind of person who uses her fame, but it was a cornering situation you desperately need to get out of.
"If you touch me, I'll sue you for harassment."
"You entered his suite without permission."
"This is my room!" you insisted. But now you weren't so sure as you were hammered drunk last night.
---
You were now seated on the couch as you fidget nervously. It was then cleared out that you got the wrong suite and that the door was held open early in the morning for their surprise to Jin. That explains the headache and groggy state you're in, barely getting any sleep.
Their manager pretty much yelled at the ridiculous stunt and fired the staff in charge right there and then.
"Y/n!" your head whipped up at the sight of your manager rushing in through the door. You looked up at her and couldn't hold back the tears you've been holding.
"Ms. Seo!" you uttered and ran up to her, hugging her as you seek refuge in her arms.
"What happened?"
"My father happened. If he'd just let me stay in his hotel and didn't belittle my job too much, I could've avoided this. And Alex! He bought so much drinks for me!"
"Who's Alex?" she asked back, confused.
"The friend I made last night."
"Y/n!" she reprimanded.
"He was nice! And then... and then..."
"Your talent got into my suite. She was too drunk to notice," Jin cut you off.
You whirled towards him and said, "You could've woken me up. Or something,"
"You're not the only one who's been busy and tired. Luckier you, you got to party."
His manager then stepped in, knowing how bad tempered he can be. "I figured you saw the video already. It was live so despite us taking it down, his fans still got a snip of it."
Both of your managers got into a conversation disregarding the two of you as if you were children. They were like parents calmly talking about the situation, understanding each other's statements. While you threw Jin a heated stare, he only shook his head out of utter disappointment.
The whole situation is not pleasant to you either, but Jin's expression is out of this world. His ice-cold glare sent shivers down your spine, making you do nothing but avert from his killer gaze.
You buried your face in your hands out of regret. You somehow knew your partying habit would get you into trouble sooner or later, but you've been very careful. It's just that you thought that once you're out of the party scene, you're deemed safe.
"- we will be talking to our lawyer about this, so I couldn't make any promises."
"Either way, you should cooperate with our investigation if you're not hiding anything."
"We're not. We'll agree to it as long as this is settled legally and you have a warrant."
"She trespassed!"
"It was an accident. An honest mistake on her part. She was..." Ms. Seo sighed in shame, before saying, "intoxicated. Isn't that obvious? She didn't mean any harm. Mr. Kim isn't hurt. Anyone isn't."
"Do you know what this has caused my artist's reputation?"
"So does mine. She wouldn't have slipped in if the door was locked."
"So you're really going there?"
"I told you we'll cooperate but with legal safeguards to protect us."
A ring have cut through the intense bullets flying to and fro across the room.
It was your phone.
Dad calling...
Shoot.
You flinched. You couldn't even dare to press the red button and just kept staring on the screen.
"Y/n," you glanced up at Ms. Seo with teary eyes, asking for her to take it on your behalf. She shook her head and urged you to take it.
With a sigh, you picked up the call and closed your eyes as you brace yourself.
"Dad?"
"Is it true?" his voice sounded menacing.
You held in your breath and stalled, "I don't know what you're talking about."
"You know I don't take bullshits. I've let you on your own and this is how you repay me? I don't care who you sleep with but at least have some decency to not get caught and bring shame to the family!"
"It's not like that. It was an accident. I didn't," you let out an exhausted breath. "My manager and I will fix this. Don't worry."
"The damage has been done. People have traced who you are. Do you know you're being painted as a rebel heiress? Your pictures with models and few personalities, partying, are all over the internet and the news. Now, the public are even scrutinizing us, your parents."
"Is your manager in the room?" he asked after a beat.
"Yes."
"Put me on speaker."
"But dad, this isn't the right time. We have other people in the room," you replied, meeting the eyes of everyone who seemed to be listening to the call. A staff barged in and talked to Jin's manager, showing him something on the tablet.
"Other people involved in this matter you mean?"
"Yes."
"Better. Put me on speaker. Now."
"Sir," Ms. Seo greeted once you've put it on the coffee table.
"I'll compensate for everything my daughter has caused. Money is not an issue here. Cancel all her contracts from this point on and my legal team will help you with the penalties. Y/n will fly back here to Seoul."
"Dad!"
"I already told you to not join the circus, Y/n. I won't let anyone slander this family. This is your last straw. You burned it. Now, go back here,"
The line ended, leaving you all speechless.
--
It has been a month since you were flown back to Seoul. The wound was still all painful and bitter for losing the momentum you've had in the fashion world. In a snap, your father has proved how he could end your career anytime he wants.
On top of compensation, a threat to pull out of the current deals they had currently with the band were laid out on the table unless their management will not release any single statement for the matter.
The surprising part is that, everything in your life was laid out there. Out for the world to read. You became more famous, in three-folds, than you've been ever before. Soon, some stories were spun up how you and Jin met. Someone have caught a picture of the both of you in a museum, coincidentally. They even got a wind of how the scandal affected your career and that your influential family have paid millions to protect you.
Soon after, your father released a statement on your behalf. That you have done nothing wrong and you've been nothing but being independent on your own. The recent events have pushed him to step in and save you from scrutinizing eyes.
When he was asked on his thoughts about your nonexistent relationship with the idol, he stated, "My daughter's recovering from the whole fiasco. I have nothing to say about the rumors."
Then again, because of a vague statement, the whole situation was being painted as a Shakespeare piece. A star-crossed lovers. Your father being painted as a good-natured villain, while you, a rebel turned into a princess who was swept off her feet by a prince.
It was a well-cooked slow burn love story now for the media and for the fans of both sides. An orchestrated piece where hints and bits were dropped off for anyone to connect the dots.
And now you're here, in a meeting room with Jin who's calmer than before. A pitying gaze on his eyes which annoyed the hell out of you.
You couldn't help but scoff.
Tables have turned in more ways than one.
"The PR stunt was slow but effective. Making it organic and believable for everyone." Jin's manager spoke up.
You on the other hand, has been on the blind side of things.
"I thought everyone was paid off. Why are we having this meeting?" you turned to Ms. Seo.
She looked at you and said, "Your father and I have settled everything. We're now on the second phase of the plan. They also agreed to this."
"What's happening?" you asked in utter confusion.
"We're writing a romance movie. So you could get back to your modelling and Jin would be painted in a better light. The damage has been done the moment you were broadcasted on live. We just tipped the opinion of the public to the pastured side," she explained.
--
"This is ridiculous!" you declared after the walkthrough. "You agreed to this?!" you snapped at Jin, who was just silent all throughout the meeting.
--
You flew to Paris a day after that under some hideous disguise so no one could recognize. After settling in, you got ready for the first take. A natural look. You took a morning stroll through the winding streets, heading to a bakery before walking back to your place. You walked slow towards the rented apartment, your face bare and gracefully pale to sell off the movie script everyone wrote.
Beep. Shutter.
And the first scene was set.
--
"Pictures would be published a day later so you'd be safe. By the time they got a wind of the situation, you guys are both back here in Seoul. Taking the second sequence," the PR adviser discussed as he peeled off the storyboard.
--
Seokjin's looking at you at an arm's length distance before grabbing your hand. His hands are cold and pale from the city's harsh breeze.
"I can't believe we're doing this," you whispered, your scarf now covering almost half your face. Your outfit was straight out of a hallmark movie while he's wearing a ridiculous oversized pink sweater and khaki shorts. "And your outfit, seriously?"
He pursed his lips and pulled you towards him, gently. He then whispered to your ear, "Don't make me laugh. I was supposed to be in disguise when meeting you."
"You're attracting attention to yourself by being hideous," you retorted as you felt his hug tighten, his head burying on your shoulder.
Beep. Shutter.
"That's the point," he hoarsely replied.
You sighed. "I'm sorry. I know this is tiring. We could just..."
Seokjin shook his head. "It's okay. I'm sorry for putting your career in jeopardy."
"It's my fault. Don't be sorry. I got you in so much trouble."
"It's no one's fault," he settled.
You let out a sigh against his chest.
Then he spoke, "You should push me away. I chased after you, but you're done, remember?"
"This is ridiculous."
"You've said that for a hundredth time. Now do your part, Juliet," he replied in a teasing tone.
You gulped and couldn't help but chuckle, in response, Jin tucked your head in. "Don't laugh, you're making me laugh. We'll blow this up. Really, you're such a bad actress," he said through gritted teeth while fighting a smile off his face.
With that you pushed him away with a glare.
"I'm a freaking model. I can act," you reprimanded him, raising an eyebrow in a challenge.
He tilted his head to the side, "Not like that, be heart broken."
He reached again for your hand but this time you spat it away.
"Fine," you turned around and ran towards the building, hiding your face as if you're sobbing, but in reality, the whole scenario's sending you to madness.
With all the relentless shutters you've heard since the scene, you only hoped a couple of them would look convincing.
--
"Your boyfriend's here," Ms. Seo announced while you were getting your makeup ready for a shoot. Deals started pouring in right after the release of your heartbreaking pictures. As a strategy, the most unassuming gig was picked. A coffee commercial.
You turned to your manager with wide eyes as the staff pretended to hear nothing. Your makeup artist paused a bit before pretending on powdering your face as a touch up.
"We broke up. What are you talking about?" you carefully treaded, earning silenced gasps from your stylist to the floor manager and even the photographer who were suddenly in your perimeter.
Ms. Seo shrugged and left the studio. You saw Seokjin walking in in his crisp white shirt and slacks, his hair slicked back and looking handsome as ever.
"Everyone out! Be back and we'll start in 15!" someone announced, sending you in utter confusion.
You watched him as he made his way towards you. Neither of you spoke as you waited for the last person to leave the room.
Once the studio doors clicked shut, you uttered, "We're not scheduled to shoot in two days,"
Seokjin shrugged, his hands tucked behind him.
"The team thought we need a follow up. We couldn't just make up all of a sudden with all the pushing and swatting done in Paris."
You chuckled, "You told me to push you away."
"I did."
You sighed in exasperation and decided to move on. Walking up to him you crossed your arms against your chest. "So what do I need to do?"
He brought flowers and handed it to you, saying, "There're cameras across the window, you just have to accept these and be photographed."
You rolled your eyes and stepped to him, handing out your hand to accept the flowers.
He raised a brow and said, "Closer,"
You took a step closer and gently grabbed the bouquet from him. A lingering hold to let the moment be captured.
Then you turned away, back to a spot covered by the wall. He stood there by the window, staring at you.
"How's everything so far?"
You nodded back and replied, "Good. Let me know if I need to do anything for you. I owe you for cooperating to this ridiculous plan."
Jin let out a bitter chuckle, "It's for my image too. This is a lot of work, but it's the best way to get out of this situation."
"If it's of any comfort to you, my branding soared, for being a real adult. Whatever that means," he added.
You nodded in understanding, "So we'll just squeeze the lemonade out of this."
He laughed at the comparison you used, but nodded in agreement. "Yes. I'll consider this as an acting gig. You should too. For your portfolio."
You chuckled back and nodded, "Okay, thank you, Jin."
--
You briskly walked to Jin's car at the end of your appointment for that day. You're now on the second sequence, a scene where Jin is driving you home, stopping for a quick dinner along the way.
You huffed as you pulled his car door shut.
"Hi," you greeted, untangling your thick red scarf from your neck.
"Ready?" he asked as you buckle in. You looked around and remarked, "Wow, this car isn't really tinted huh."
He laughed. "It's for my safety. In case you'd do anything bad to me."
"As if," you retorted and chuckled back.
You were both advised to be careful as the traction of your story has been picked up by different news agencies. Along with your hired photographers, real paparazzis are now out there to get you both.
"Assume as if you're really sneaking away. Just get on the spots we told you so our team can have clear shots," Ms. Seo reminded on the phone, minutes before the stage.
Few minutes later of battling through the city, he parked the car on the riverside. As he pulled the handbrake, you asked, "I thought we're having dinner."
"Yeah, but too many people. I prepared ahead here," he replied before taking off and opening the trunk.
You followed with curiosity and laughed when you found camping pots and utensils and a few packs of ramen. Then he revealed a plate of jokbal tightly packed.
Your mouth watered at the sight and turned to him in glee. "Oh my god," you told him with a grin.
He stared at you for a while and didn't say anything. So you proceeded, "This is amazing, Jin! I like it," you informed him before digging for the water bottles and the portable kettle. Beyond you are the trees, the hood facing the empty parking lot.
"Where do we go?" you asked after securing the bottles and kettle.
Jin stuttered, blinking, before saying, "Just here," he replied in a rasp.
"Oh, okay," you agreed right away seating on the trunk and opening the bottle of water then pouring it in the kettle.
You looked around and through the dimly lit forest park. You turned to him as you wait for the water to boil, "I haven't seen any photographers though, you sure we didn't lose them?" you asked as you watch him take a seat beside you.
"They're around somewhere. I'm sure. They have to hide well so it won't be too obvious," he replied, his voice sounding stressed. With a concerned look, you asked, "Is everything alright?"
He bit his lip and nodded, "Yeah, just tired."
You stood up and went in front of him. With your arms wide open, you told him, "You can recharge. I give hugs for free."
Jin chuckled and shook his head as his gaze wandered on your face. There was something in his eyes you didn't used to see and you attributed that to his exhaustion. He must've a busier schedule and this is an additional work for him.
He wrapped a hand around your waist, then pulled you closer to him, resting his chin on your shoulder. You automatically hugged him back, giving the back of his head a gentle caress.
You settled between his thighs as you sighed out a hum. "This is nice," you muttered.
"It is."
Shutter.
--
"From thereon, we'll let the issue die down. We will circulate a story on your breakup after a month." the PR head finished, turning to everyone.
"Questions?"
--
The stunt was a success and despite you having both supporters and haters, the scandal winded down into a much positive note. Offers came back according to Ms. Seo. Which is why you're in Dubai for an editorial shoot.
You thought everything was over when your father have paid off everyone. You didn't even know he'd go through pins and needles to clear your name. May it be for the sake of your family's reputation or you as his daughter, you didn't go further to distinguish. On a family dinner, when you informed him you'll be flying out of the country for your projects, he didn't comment much about it. Well aside from a threat of you going to parties.
Slumping down the couch, you reached for your phone. You posted a photo of the sunset in the desert to update your followers before heading for bed as you have an early flight to Paris tomorrow.
--
You woke up to a notification.
From: Kim Seokjin
Don't I look handsome?
You chuckled at the message and the selfie he sent. He has cucumbers covering his eyes and his hair was up in pigtails. You took note of how unfair his plump lips looked even without filter.
Typing in, Very., you replied.
Not long after, he messaged back,
When are you coming back?
In two weeks
I'll treat you to a meal.
We'd broken up by then, though?
Ouch.
You laughed at his reply as you get ready for the flight. You and Jin have formed a friendship over the situation. It wasn't that difficult. He's dorky and kind though you thought he was really a snob at first. Which was fair considering how you've almost ruined everything for him.
--
No official statement on the confirmation of your relationship was published, however news articles have released news on your breakup due to your busy schedules. You took off from social media for three days as everyone bombarded you with questions, cheer ups, and hate messages.
It was a cold morning, so you opted to stay in your apartment instead of heading out. Besides, cameras would still be hot on your tail since it's been less than a month since the breakup news.
"And now, exhale as you crunch up, tucking your navel in," the soothing voice of the instructor and your ragged breath were the prominent sound in the four-walled space.
"You know it's coming, now, hold it," she added further after a bit.
You grunted and pushed yourself despite the burn on your upper mid. With a laser focus on the wall, you huffed down as the doorbell rang.
With labored breath you wiped your forehead, turned on your stomach and lifted up in a cobra position to give the sore muscle a nice stretch.
The doorbell rang once again.
You hurried towards the door, expecting Ms. Seo, only to be surprised when faced with Jin's equally surprised face.
He tried his best not to look down, though your red-flushed face and sweaty look made his mind haywired. You were equally comprehending as to what he's doing at your door in broad daylight until you remembered proposing to eat in your apartment instead for safety reasons.
You slapped your forehead, making him also flinch out of a trance you barely noticed. "Shit, I completely forgot. Come in," you rambled as you opened the door wide open for him.
He didn't move an inch, his ears red, as he put a hand on the back of his neck. "I could visit another day, you must've been busy. It's alrigh-"
"No, no! I was just finishing my workout. I'm done now," you countered as you take a step forward only then to realize how you inappropriately dressed you are.
"Please come in, I'll just change my clothes,"
Jin swallowed down his nerve and you feel like you've put him in an uncomfortable situation. Pursing your lips, you said, "Look, I'm genuinely inviting you in and admitting that it's utterly stupid of me to forget. Why don't you use my kitchen for those takeouts while I change? I'll be back in a jiffy."
In a resolve, he decidedly nodded and walked himself in. You turned your back on him to lead the way to the kitchen.
"The dishes are in this cupboard, cups are on this side," you opened cabinets one by one to show him. You turned to another counter and pulled a drawer open around your hip, "Utensils are here,"
"Y/n," he sternly called for your attention.
Whipping your head to his direction in inquiry, your round curious eyes almost lashed something in his gut. "I'll help myself. Go get changed,"
"Oh, yeah right. Okay!"
You scurried to your bedroom to put over a loose shirt, its size meant to be big to even hang past your hips. You squeezed into black tight shorts right after.
Walking back to the kitchen, you saw him silently unpacking the food he brought. It was just the unclicking of tupperwares, soft tuds of the containers as he laid it all down the counter with much practiced ease.
"Hey," you greeted as you darted out right beside him.
He gasped in surprise but before you could tease him about being jumpy, he let out a light chuckle.
"I just brought a few," he diverted, going back to his unpacking. You could see the egg rolls generously sprinkled by spring onions and carrots, the kimchi slices were stacked neatly, the picked yellow radish where cut in nice squares, and your mouth watered at the sight of spicy-red octopus legs.
You swore you almost caught yourself drooling.
Jin's eyes widened a fraction as he held your gaze, your eyes were twinkling with wonder and amusement.
He nodded and teasingly voiced out, "Ah, food is your weakness I see,"
You feigned a sad face and said, "People who feed me are my weakness,"
Red painted his neck and ears at your unknowing attempt at flirting.
"Oh, come on," he called out. "I brought soda to pair these with," he diverted, once again. You scowled and replied, "Boo, I have soju and beer here."
Not waiting for his reply, you headed to the fridge and fished out two of each drink from your stash. You set the drinks on the island and navigated to the cupboards for glasses.
"Do you drink?" you asked, but still preparing for two without his answer.
"I- yeah,"
The beer bottles clinked and popped as you expertly opened one using the other. Pulling the drawer out, you fished for a spoon and used that to the other bottle.
You seethed as you watched and mixed somaek on two glasses at the same time. Pouring out the soju first, your gaze were laser focused on the glasses' imaginary lines. The soju bottles clinked on the marble as you placed them aside.
You then poured the beer next, both bottles filled the glasses up with a fizz.
You grinned as you finished both drinks, topping of your mixing with strong taps of spoon on each, mixing the drink with a fascinating swirl.
Handing the somaek to Jin, you raised your glass to him and drank as you cheered, bringing the plate of octopus legs with you to the living room.
Sitting down on the floor by the couch, you waited for Jin to settle down as he transferred the dishes to the coffee table.
Once he was sat down across from you, you started your interview, "How was it back there in your company?"
His forehead scrunched, before saying, "What do you mean?"
"The breakup. I mean, our breakup. I haven't opened my phone because notifactions kept on coming. I thought of changing my number after to keep it from exploding."
Jin let out a silent 'Ah' before replying, "The staff knows the real story, so only the agency is the most peaceful place out there."
You nodded in understanding. Lucky him. The most safe place for you is the 20 meter perimeter around your building. "How did you get here by the way? The basement?"
He nodded as he started munching on the food.
"Hang on, do you want rice?" you offered, but didn't wait anyway for his reply as you stood up to get bowls.
Author: @kpopfanfictrash as part of the Nightmare on Tumblr.com collab with @underthejoon , @bratkookâ , @hobidreamsâ , @junghelioseokâ , @jungkxookâ and @suga-kookiemonsterâÂ
Creative Contributor: @baebae-goodnight FOR THIS MOODBOARD LIKE. look at it.Â
Pairing: Jimin / Reader (female)
Genre:Â Fantasy / Enemies to Lovers / Princes of Hell!AU / Witch!AU
Word Count:Â 41,774
Rating/Warnings: 18+ for sexual content. Fingering, dirty talk, oral (female), condom-less sex (with mention of other protection), breast play.Â
Graphic injuries occur to main characters throughout the story. There are action/fight scenes.
Summary: Â As penance for a crime committed long, long ago, the Witch Council banished you to the feared Tholoss forest. Your sentence was one hundred thousand days of solitude â or death, whichever came first. Your only hope of salvation comes from the demon names routinely sent your way; creatures who escape the inner circles of Hell and pose a threat to the mortal realms. For each demon you kill, days are removed from your sentence. For years youâve existed, biding your time, until one morning you receive a name which throws your entire world into chaos: the name of Park Jimin, High Prince of Hell himself.
You failed to see it coming.
You were already in the middle before it began.
Genre: fluff, angst, Idol!Jungkook
Word count: 6.5k
---
The pot clanked as you scoop out the last dish you prepared for your guests. You werenât planning on renting out your parentsâ home again as youâre focusing on your full-time work as an entry-level consultant, but they offered a handsome amount to be accommodated. Besides, all you have to do is to have the place professionally cleaned for a one week stay in exchange of a one-month worth of your salary. Their only request is to keep their stay confidential and extremely private. Meaning, no advertisements to be made that includes their name, in any form, after.
Such request was not new to you as youâve had several celebrities over the home. When you took over it, as asked by your mother who moved to the east coast with her boyfriend, you didnât imagine the place to be famous among personalities. Some offered to buy it, but your divorced parents agreed not to sell the estate. Besides, they donât need the money anyway. Well, itâs reasonable, seeing how the quaint blue house sits right on top of the cliff with an amazing ocean view. Itâs a prime property.
You heard vehicles rolled into a halt outside. That must be them.
Taking off the apron, you hung it by the island counter and rounded out to the living area. Your yellow wrap dress swayed as you navigated your way outside.
You heard a juggling of suitcase and keys before the heavy steps stopped by the front porch.
With the most hospitable smile you could muster, you opened the door.
âHi! Mr. Sejin?â you queried, one of them met your gaze with anticipation while the other didnât even bother to throw you a glance.
âHi. Thatâs me,â the one in glasses spoke. You held out your hand for a greeting in which he shook gladly.
âI hope it was easy to find your way here,â you told him while glancing at him and his companion who showed no care for your small chit-chat. The other male roamed around the porch. He aimed the lens to the birds that flew on the oak tree.
Beep.
Shutter.
âYour instructions on the site were helpful,â Sejin replied.
âGlad to hear that,â and an awkward pause, thinking if you should also entertain the other occupied guest but decided against it for now. âCome in! I figured you travelled far from the city, so I decided to provide lunch. A welcoming gift,â you diverted politely.
Sejin scratched the back of his head as he hummed. âI need to go actually. I just drop Jungkook off and go back,â he explained. You observed he has an accent.
You blinked in surprise. âOh,â you muttered at learning his deal and the name of his companion.
Your heart sunk at the thought of wasting food. First, you anticipated a group, so you cooked several dishes. Second, you put an effort on it. Well, thereâs nothing much to do about the situation really.
âYes,â Sejin replied.
âOkay, I understand. I thought⌠you sure you donât wanna eat something before you go? I prepared a lot thinking, well, you paid for a group,â
âAbout thatâŚâ
âWe can have a quick talk inside,â you cut him off, noticing youâre still hanging by the front door. You held the door open for him. While Jungkook muttered something to Sejin in a different language. Without waiting for a reply, he walked down the steps and around the house to head for the cliff. You shut the door close after.
âPlease, take a seat,â you gestured to him upon arriving on the living area.
âThank you,â
âSo, I assume youâre a manager or something of the guest,â you started. âHit me.â
âExcuse me?â
You threw a sheepish smile, âIâm sorry, I mean, whatâs the protocol around his stay?â
Then you started, âYou donât need to worry about his privacy, Iâve read the NDA you sent ahead. Do I need to print it or you have a copy with you?â
âI have one here,â he replied, pulling out the document from the folder you didnât notice he was holding. You stood up and grabbed a pen from the console. After a quick browse, you scribbled your name and signature on the margins of each page.
âHere, you go,â you said, handing him back the papers. âDo I have anything I need to know or do you have questions?â you followed through.
âThank you," he replied, collecting the papers from you. "So, Jungkookâs not picky, just let him know what heâs having and itâll be better to give him choices.â
You furrowed your brows in confusion. âExcuse me?â
Is Sejin expecting you to babysit him?
Sejinâs eyes widened a fraction, âYou donât have butler service here? Or chef? Sorry. I thought I asked my team to book a private place frequented by personalities.â
âIâve had few of them over, but they have their own staff. This is my parentsâ home and Iâm just a caretaker here. I have the place deep-cleaned before visits, provide linens and towels and other necessities, but no, I donât cook for my guests,â you explained. Sejin threw a look on the prepared dinner table then back at you.
âWell, thatâs only for now. A welcoming gesture. As I said earlier.â
Sejin shifted on his seat, looking uneasy.
âI stocked the fridge and pantry for a quick whip and snacks, he could use it as heâd like, and Iâll be restoring it after 3 days. On the house. Thereâs a market 20-minute drive away from here, if he needs something,â you supplied to ease his worries.
He nodded. Then for a moment, he raised a finger and pulled out his phone. âLet me call someone,â
You nodded back and as much as possible you stopped yourself from furrowing your brows. He didnât leave the room and his accent changed to a thicker and staggering one, making you think heâs angry at whoeverâs on the other line. His face remained calm though, but his voice is deeper and louder that you start feeling uncomfortable.
Itâs not your fault they missed on that. Youâve put everything on the website and did not oversell the place. You have a consistent five-star review and were even praised for always going an extra-mile for your guests. Changing linens, towels, toiletries, and even providing few groceries, during their whole stay in the home. You have a separate quarter outside, making it easier for them to reach you should they have problems. Well, such call only happened once, when you fixed a water heater in the middle of the night. Overall, the home is in good condition as it is well-kept.
You presume the call was about to end as Sejin replied with okayâs and yesâs.
He dropped his phone with a sigh and looked at you, still troubled. You looked at him, waiting for a verdict.
âSorry for the confusion. I understand our staff made a mistake, but I just want to know, if Jungkook needs something, how can he reach you?â
You threw a timid smile and replied, âMy quarterâs in the backyard. I have an intercom there. The phones are in the kitchen, the three bedrooms, and in the living area,â you pointed at the phone hung on the wall by the window.
âOkay. Iâll just talk to him. Thank you so much, Ms. Y/n.â
--
The door swung open then shut close. You looked up at the sound of slow heavy steps. You found Jungkook with a camera hung on his neck as he surveyed the place. You looked for Sejin and the door opened right after, his head peeking, âMiss, I need to hurry, please take care of Jungkook. Call me if thereâs an emergency.â
âAlright!â the door slammed close making you fumble in closing the tupperware.
âMr. Sejin, wait!â
But it was too late as you heard his vehicle rolled off the driveway.
With pursed lips, you placed the packed food down. You looked up and accidently met Jungkookâs eyes.
âAh, Mr. JungkookâŚâ
âJust Jungkook,â he corrected.
âJungkook. Iâll place this in the fridge for you,â you gestured, starting your monologue in a sing-song voice. You headed for the fridge and closed it with a soft thud.
You glanced at the food on the table then at him, âYou can have your lunch if youâd like,â you said in a pitch higher, keeping your tone cheerful.
âThen, Iâll be bringing my pots backâŚâ you trailed off, facing towards the two big pots on the stove, carrying the two on both of your sides, and then turning your attention back at him.
âThe pots and other utensils are in those cupboards. I just got them cleaned,â you directed, glancing at the shelves.
Finally, fully turning to him, you said further, âYou can dial 000 if you need anything like changing linens or towels, or if you need extras.â
You sighed out with a practiced smile, placing down a pot on the counter. You reached for the house manual tucked in the corner.
âHereâs the house rules and manual for you,â you finished, sliding the leather binder across the island.
At a pause, he didnât say anything more than a thumbs up and a meek thank you.
You nodded and bid your goodbye, carrying your two pots with you, âWell, I hope you enjoy your stay here! Rest well and have a great day, Jungkook.â
With a last glance and tight-lipped smile, you headed to the backdoor, opening it against the push of your hips, and walked back to your mini living space at the backyard. On your way there, you checked through the flowers and plants for anything you missed while watering them this morning. At a curb, you pushed the fence gate open, leading you to a smaller yard in which your rusty modern quarter is situated.
It looked like a little barn house, the high roof was made to make space for a high ceiling. You had it constructed before moving in since you thought the home is too big for one person. Your mom was initially okay with terminating her rentals of the home in your place, but you figured that such occasional income would be a waste.
Your quarter is much easier to clean and maintain. The white walls were minimally decorated with local artwork. There's a couch by the window, then your bed is on the elevated platform. You have your own bathroom and kitchen too and a laundry closet. You had it planned out and custom built for your needs. Especially the kitchen. It might seem small, but it has almost everything. The designer you got for the place is very smart with storage spaces.
Thereâs also a full-length extended mirror at the corner, expanding the space. Itâs pretty much a house on its own but still comparably small to your parentsâ vacation home.
---
You woke up at the sound of your alarm clock. You got ready for your morning routine and browsed your closet for a dress to wear. You picked up a green floral one with capped sleeves and a wrap fit.
Getting the heavy-duty apron hanging by the door, you slid your garden scissors and wore garden gloves. You started watering the plants in your yard first, inspecting the plant for any pests and just basking in the morning scent of the ocean.
Then you moved to the bigger houseâs garden, then to the front driveway. You have a gardener whoâs visiting you once a week to trim, clean, and look after the plants. All you have to do is water them. Especially now that it looks like rain wonât come anytime soon according to the forecast.
The sun was already high and quite harsh on your skin when you finished. You figured you should wake up earlier tomorrow. Unclipping the apron, you wiped a sweat off your forehead and folded the heavy material by your elbow.
Turning back to the side of the house, you saw Jungkook on the front porch with his eyes in small slits, still in his pajamas.
âGood morning,â you greeted promptly while stowing away the hose.
âGood morning,â he replied with a small but deep voice, it almost came out as a murmur.
You dwelled a little bit whether you should extend your interaction with him. In the end, you decided to just throw him a tight-lipped smile and headed back.
Youâre conscious of going overboard. Taking into account how they chose this place for a vacation. Or maybe heâs just alone for the entire stay. You have no idea. Regardless, itâs safer to not interact with the guests if not needed. Sticking to hiâs and helloâs are better.
After your garden work, you prepared for the rest of your day. You procured another wrap dress from your closet. You have tons of them. Theyâre comfy, loose, and flattering. You donât need to change outfit if you need to go outside for some errands. Itâs also presentable enough for video calls.
Two days into his stay, youâre somehow thankful that your guest isnât fussy. He never called you once over anything. Though it worried you how no one really came by and itâs really just him. Thereâs a car on the garage but you never saw him use it to go out for a drive. His interactions are limited to you greeting him good morning and a smile and a nod.
Out of curiosity, you searched for his name online and was astonished with the results you found. You even typed his name wrong. The first result was a muscly big Korean man, but in the swarm of those pictures, you recognized your guest.
Leading you to his band.
Their name looked familiar as you saw it on the email and document sent by their team.
âOooh. Okay,â you muttered to yourself as you explore Google.
Then a recent news was on the first page, involving him.
Jungkook of BTS spotted with an international model
You hesitated to click on the article and dig deeper. It was a second pause but you re-typed your search query with the article title and lots of blogs and pieces from news sites popped up. Some of his fans were enraged, while some are appealing to his privacy. You decided to stop there to not form any unnecessary impressions on him. He seems like a good guy and well. The industry heâs in is just like that.
You breathed out and try to put the information you learned at the backburner.
Then you realized thatâs why heâs here and all cooped up.
A sliver of pity seeped in but you were quick to recognize it. You apprehended yourself for the matter is truly none of your business.
Closing the tab, you diverted your attention back to work.
Itâs four in the afternoon and you just finished a call when you headed out of your place.
You stood in the middle of your yard and stretched. Then you heard footsteps behind the gate, making you turn around.
You met Jungkookâs doe eyes, his hands in his pockets, then he bowed and muttered an apology.
âItâs fine! Out for a walk?â you queried with an accommodating smile.
âUh, yes,â
âHave you been to the cove?â
âCove?â he asked with a swirl at the end.
âThe beach. Down the cliff,â you pointed to the direction.
âAh!â he exclaimed, understanding what youâre talking about. He shook his head once, âNo⌠I donât know where is that.â
You walked a bit towards him but still leaving a few meters in between, chatting with him over the fence.
âYou should see it. Thereâs not much people there at this time of year,â summer just ended and the cove is a bit out of way from the famous tourist spots.
He closed his mouth and nodded.
âHow do I go there?â he asked after a beat.
You turned to your house, thinking if you still need to stay online. Youâre done with your tasks and the meeting wrapped up everything. But still, you need to monitor any last-minute calls or emails. You turned back to Jungkook.
âI can show you, let me just get my phone.â
He nodded and shifted his stance outside the gate. You rushed inside and grabbed your phone on the coffee table and took your purse hanging by the coat rack.
After locking the door from the inside, you sauntered towards Jungkook, his eyes wandering on you.
âDo you have your car keys?â you asked, throwing a friendly smile.
--
You pointed him directions down to the beach. His eyes glinted in entertainment as you wind down the slopes in the midst of the thick forest. At the intersection, you further instructed, âTurn right here.â
The place is near and just a few minutesâ drive away. The silence was filled with your occasional directions and clicking sound of the signal. Thereâs not much place to point out at the tourist beside you aside from the junction leading to the town center in which you told him he could visit should he need any supplies.
The parking lot is empty upon your arrival. Jungkook drove to a spot nearer to the sand and he wandered a bit on the dashboard as he turned off the engine.
You alighted the vehicle right after, closing the car door with a soft thud. Being aware of his steps, you walked towards the shore and turned to him to see if heâs okay.
He let out an impressed hum with downturned lips as he looked at the view then back at you. The wind were blowing his hair in an organized disarray. You stepped aside and let him walk first. Upon reaching few meters from the shore, you sat down and let him be.
The sun brought smile on your lips. You tucked your hair on one side, following the direction of the wind and let the loose ends be blown by the afternoon breeze. Your gaze traced the twinkling surface of the ocean until its horizon. The lilac sky bled in orange and red as the sun sets. You stared, for God knows how long, as the sun flickers upon kissing the water.
You watched it sunk, until darkness enveloped the earth, giving the moon its spot for the time being. It was a scene you've watched a hundred times, still, each sunset is a bit different from the other.
A satisfied smile and sigh left you as you dusted off your hands. Your eyes wandered around for the sight of your guest, but he was nowhere to be found.
âJungkook?â you called out.
You were startled at the voice coming behind you, âHere,â
You turned around and found him smiling and waving at you, you clutched your chest in relief. He diverted his gaze from you and stared at the horizon. âYou ready to go?â you asked carefully.
He hummed an approval and reached for your hand. You took it and lifted yourself up with his help and muttered your thanks before letting go of him.
The drive home was quiet, but the atmosphere became much lighter than sitting in an enclosed space with a stranger earlier. You looked at Jungkook humming quietly as he navigated back to the mountain. Itâs good to know that he enjoyed going out to the place you recommended.
The car revved off as he pulled into a park. You unbuckled your seatbelt and thanked him for the ride.
âNo, thank you. For going with me,â he replied in a much standard american accent.
âIâm glad to hear,â
You slowly walked away, pointing to the side of the house, âWell, I must go. Enjoy the rest of your evening, Jungkook.â
You sent over a wave which he replied with a crinkle in his eyes. Tracing your gaze from him to your feet, you finally turned around and walked on your way.
---
At 6 am, you woke up and started your routine of watering the plants.
Wearing a wrap dress again, you clipped on your gardening apron. It was cold out and the water from the hose is freezing. You attached the head and turned it to a moderate spray.
It is only now when you recognized how the morning sings: A peaceful white noise laced with the riff of the birdsâ chirping. The ocean from afar played the bass while the spray of the fresh water as it hit the soil and leaves strung the melody.
When you reached the houseâs backyard, you saw Jungkook standing by the backdoor.
âGood morning,â you greeted, this time, with a wider smile on your face.
He replied with a more enthusiastic voice, âGood morning!â
He was wearing a white bucket hat, his shirt and sweats are both baggy but that didnât hide the way his shoulders and chest were built.
You watched him as he jogged towards you in his slippers.
âLet me help?â he asked, reaching for the hose.
You hesitatingly pulled away for him to have it. Maybe you could let him water the plants for a bit.
âIs everything okay in the house?â you asked to fill in the silence.
He glanced back at you before eyeing the ground heâs watering.
âYes. Everythingâs good.â
You stepped to the side to give him space as he walked along the section of greens and flowers. After a while, you noticed that his face is becoming bothered and serious, as if grasping for anything to say.
Cutting him some slack, you fired again, âDo you have any plans for today? Any place to visit?â
Scratching his neck and holding the hose on the other hand, he carefully constructed a sentence. âI donât know many places with no crowd.â
You hummed, thinking that maybe he could go for a hike. But that would be risky if heâs going alone.
âI can accompany you to a forest reserve. We can go trekking,â you offered instead. He turned to you, delighted for your offer, âReally? Can we go today?â
âYeah sure. Let me just continue watering so weâll be faster,â
He let out a chuckle handing you back the hose. âOkay, I will get ready.â
You nodded as you waved him off. âSee you in an hour?â
âOkay. See you!â
--
After taking a quick bath, you whipped snacks in your kitchen. You prepared a bigger bag to store the lunchboxes, first-aid kit, blanket, and an umbrella. You made sure there would be enough water for the trek and the meal, making the jug and tumblers taking up much of the space. You slipped in your wallet and phone, the only personal items in the pack.
You changed to your leggings and loose shirt, topping it with a wind-breaker suitable for any weather. Although according to the forecast, itâs just cloudy today and thereâs a low chance of rain in your area.
By the time you sauntered to the front yard, Jungkook was already there leaning against the car. You heard the engine running, making you walk a bit faster to reach him. You made sure you were on time.
He beamed and asked, âLetâs go?â
âAll ready,â you replied, smiling, walking around the car.
âI prepared some snacks. Just in case,â you informed him once you were both inside. You turned back and placed the bag on the backseat. His eyes followed your movement as he replied, âNice.â
You typed in the address on the GPS and it quickly registered the reserve. You browsed to confirm the route before re-centering the system.
âOkay, letâs go!â you cheered as you relaxed on your seat.
Only music filled your ears together with the crunching of the asphalt outside as the car rolled through the hills. Jungkookâs cornering is impressive. The car glided smoothly through the winding roads. He shifted the gear as you go downhill and would shift again on an uphill. He would easily shift back to drive when he assesses that the plane would be relatively flat.
âYour driving is impressive,â you hummed not thinking much on the compliment you threw. âThis is what you call cruising,â you added, bopping gently to the music on the stereo.
Jungkook just chuckled as he quickly threw you a glance, âThank you,â he muttered.
âDo you drive?â he asked after a beat.
You turned to him and tilting your head, you answered, âI have a license, but I barely drive.â
He laughed meekly in knowing, âBut you live on mountain,â
You chuckled back and nodded in acknowledgement, âI drive from time to time, but I mostly hitchhike when I need to go to town.â
His forehead scrunched a bit before saying, âHitchhike? Thatâs not dangerous?â
âItâs not. Theyâre my neighbors and of course I only ask that from people I know,â you told him, laughing a bit.
âI just got here six months ago. I used to live in New York, and you donât really need a car there.â
âBut whereâs your car? You said you drive here sometimes.â
âItâs with Uncle Ben for now. Iâm having it fixed.â
He nodded. Silence filled again as he maneuvers through another winding road. This time, the turns were sharper.
You were used to the scenery passing by. Giant Sequoia trees mostly covering the view, opening up to an open field from time to time. While LA has always been gray and yellow for you, the upper state is an array of colors. Of brick red, sky blue, and royal ocean, of lush green, sahara brown, white fog, and still yellow. Living here never crossed your mind for the concrete jungle gave everything you need within a walking distance.
Jungkook stole a glance at you. He, too, never knew the upstate was this beautiful.
Now he knows. And he knew thereâs so much yet left instore.
Upon your arrival at the park, you took out the tumblers you prepared and offered him one. Jungkook let out an astonished hum and accepted it with his cute thank you.
âSure,â you replied. âIâll leave the bag here and get it later, in case we get hungry,â you informed him.
You went on your way, leading Jungkook to the entrance. He swiftly handed a bill to the cashier as he crossed over your shoulder, his chest brushing against your back. You took a tiny step to the opposite side to give him space. âThanks,â you muttered to him.
The Park was pretty empty. Surprisingly. The giant redwoods provided a dense cover against the sun and the air felt cool and light. All you have is a map, water, and your phone tucked in your windbreaker, the chirping of a bird above echoed through the forest, then followed by a reply.
You walked in silence treading through the unpaved road until it got narrower and narrower. The map in your hand crumbled more as time goes by, making sure that you wonât get lost. When you saw a sign, you diverted back to the paper in your hand, letting you know where you are at the moment. You almost tripped on a protruding root if not for Jungkook pulling you back to him, his hand firmly grasping you by the elbow.
A chuckle escaped your lips for your clumsiness. âSorry,â you told him.
Jungkook silently grabbed your map and walked ahead of you. âJungkook,â you called after him, catching up to his large strides.
âItâs a loop. We'll not be lost,â he told you in a teasing tone.
You replied carefully as you watch your steps, âBut itâs diverting to other trails. If we end up to a 5 hour path, Iâll murder you here.â
He turned back at you with a childish smile on his face, âWe have the whole day,â he replied, his cheeks upturned and his doe-like eyes glinting.
Jungkook paused, his forehead scrunching, âYou hear that?â he asked. You continued walking to him and replied, âHear what?â
When you reached him in an armâs length, he held your forearm, stopping you.
You wandered your eyes around and squinted for anything heâs talking about.
âI can hear water. Is it the falls?â he asked, looking at his own map.
You both looked at the brochure, both your fingers tracing through the route. You saw itâs too far, that canât be the falls.
âNo, it might be a creek. Here,â you pointed to the nearer destination. You looked up at him, his eyes in utter concentration as his gaze wandered around the map then looked up to the path youâre walking.
He walked towards the path to the creek and you just silently followed him. You hissed and thought that you were not fully equipped for a longer walk, but whatever, youâre with a tourist.
Jungkook led the way, stopping now and then to wait for you. At the nth time he turned around, you told him, âJust go ahead, I can see you.â
He didnât listen and still waited. He chuckled when you approached him, your cheeks are now painted in faint red and youâre sweaty. The cool air from the forest doing little to dry your skin up when the wind blows.
âYou tired already?â he teased. You rolled your eyes at him. He sure is having fun. At least youâre glad for entertaining him though you hate the cavalry youâre going through right now.
âIâm not built for this,â you told him. All the exercise you can get is from doing gardening and your own housework. You donât even clean the vacation home and hire someone else to do the job. You can pretend to be fit for an hour, but more than that, your mask will fall off.
âAre we there yet?â you asked him, taking a break and leaning against a tree after checking for any ants and bugs.
You opened your tumbler and drank in huge gulps.
Jungkook nodded as he opened his own and drank, mimicking you. After screwing it shut, he walked behind you, pushing you off the tree by your shoulders. âLetâs go,â he said in an encouraging tone as he playfully pushed you forward like a cart.
You grumbled in response, making him laugh.
---
Two hours past lunch, you managed to go back to the entrance. You walked to the car to get your bag and headed to the picnic grove.
When you saw the log table and chairs, you figured you wonât be needing the blanket you brought. Jungkook happily sat down across you as he waited for you to unpack.
You laughed and told him, âDonât expect too much. Itâs just sandwiches and patties.â
âIâm hungry. Everything will be tasty,â he replied glancing up to you with a glint in his eyes. You wondered how true it is to see stars in someone else. You chuckled and shook your head at the thought.
With the forks you brought, you both dug in for your late snack-slash-lunch.
Jungkook let out an impressive hum as he ate the patties first. You thought his eyes couldnât be rounder but they did as he chew in delight, the juice seeping through the sides of his lips. You smiled widely at him, handing him tissue for his mess.
He took it and scrunched his forehead and let out a sound you havenât heard from anyone. What you could only tell is that heâs enjoying what heâs eating.
âI love protein,â he announced, digging in for another bite. After finishing a patty, he assembled himself his own sandwich. You separated the lettuce and tomatoes on another container to keep them fresh.
You watched as he carefully took the top off to place the lettuce and the thinnest slice of tomato he could find. You proceeded eating as he took the sandwich to his mouth. You faced to the side as you drank your water.
Placing down your paper cup, Jungkook refilled it from the jug you brought.
âThanks,â you muttered.
âYour cooking is nice. I ate the lunch you prepared, and I finished them all,â he told you as he munches on.
Your eyes widened a fraction, âAll of them?â you asked, wondering how food for ten people have fit in in his stomach.
He chuckled, then clarified, âI ate lunch then dinner.â
You nodded in understanding. You guessed itâs normal for someone who has a big body like him.
âIâm glad you liked it. We can have seafood for dinner today. I know a nice restaurant down the coast,â you suggested.
Jungkook hummed in approval then he looked up to catch all the food he put in his mouth.
âThat will make up for these sandwiches,â you lightly told him.
He looked at you and said, âItâs not bad. I like it,â he insisted while chewing. After a while, he went on, âThereâs protein, carb-carbohydrates, fiber,â he listed, though his wet lips were a little bit distracting as he recited. You wonder if heâs intentionally pouting, or his mouth is just like that.
You just nodded in agreement, saying, âYouâre right. But Iâm still taking you to that restaurant,â
âIf youâd like,â you added.
Jungkook smiled, his nose in a scrunch, as he put a thumbs up.
He swallowed down and said in enthusiasm, âOkay!â
âI love vacation,â he declared to no one as you let him have the last patty. If you knew that he was someone with a monstrous appetite, you could have prepared more. You mistook his lean figure and underestimated the amount of food. Funny thing is, Jungkook ate so much, you held back one sandwich and two patties so he could have more. You ate slowly and stopped eating before he did, leaving all the food for him. You turned to the side and leaned back to watch the birds as you heard their flapping wings.
He glanced at you and traced your line of vision. He smiled and muttered something in his language.
When the boxes were empty, you piled them up and tucked it away.
âWe could rest here for a while, if you want,â you told Jungkook, whoâs looking through the forest. He shook his head then faced you.
âWhere to next?â he asked.
You hummed, âWe can go for a drive along the coast then stop over for beaches. Theyâre quite all the same but for the sake of activities. If you want to do that,â you answered.
He contemplated and his solemn look told you that heâs a bit tired. So, you offered, âIâll drive this time.â
âBut youâre not used to driving,â he argued.
You rolled your eyes, âItâs like walking and riding the bike. The last time I drove was just a week ago, when I took my car to Uncle Ben.â
Jungkook seemed convinced and handed you his car key.
On the road, you could tell he was trying to stay awake. You turn the volume down and switched on your slow songs playlist as you told him, âYou can sleep. Iâll wake you up once weâre there.â
He just hummed but then you heard him snore seconds after.
You pursed your lips to suppress your laugh. After giving his sleeping figure a quick glance, you became more energized as you maneuver the slopes, both hands on the wheel.
Minutes later, you winded on the familiar coastal highway. You tapped lightly on the steering wheel as you entertain yourself with the faint song playing on the radio.
âI donât want to set the world on fireâŚâ you whispered, following the tune silently as much as you could.
The whoosh of the passing vehicles on the opposite side of the road, the hum of the engine, and the soothing music, they all worked like a soundtrack to an opening scene in a film. With the coast coming in to view.
You forgot you weren't alone as you cruised through.
When the next song started, nostalgia seeped into your consciousness. You smiled at the feeling. Itâs been a while since you went out and had fun like this.
Glancing at the side mirror, you switch on your signal, preparing for the exit. You slowed down as you drove through the streets. Parking lots and inactive stores sprawled left and right. Still, you stopped at intersections and followed the stop light.
The car rolled into a break and you glanced at Jungkookâs side profile. At the green light, you carefully stepped on the gas, driving towards the beach entrance.
You drove to your desired parking slot, near a pavilion. Pulling the handbrake, you turned at your passenger still sound asleep.
He looked too peaceful to be disturbed, so you decided youâll give him a few more minutes.
Alighting the vehicle without turning the engine off, you went straight to the vendo machine you saw and bought two iced coffees.
You turned around at the sound of a car door closing. Jungkook was squinting against the sun as he looked for you. You sauntered down the stairs and walked to him. âDo you want coffee?â you asked, offering him the bottle.
Jungkook accepted it, muttering his thanks in a raspy voice.
You sauntered back to the car to turn it off. Jungkook waited for you outside as he surveyed the area. Then you led him to the concrete table near a coconut tree. There were elders and families enjoying their time playing and strolling. You sat on the table, your feet dangling in the air, as you twist your bottle open.
Jungkook followed suit, standing beside you, using the table as a support, his shoulder brushing yours.
You felt your heart skipped a beat, making you sit still. You were confused at to what you were feeling. Looking at the man beside you, his lips were in a straight line, not even throwing you a glance even if you knew he could see you in his peripheral vision.
Jungkook looked distant as he stared at the vast ocean.
Cold washed through you as you caught yourself being attracted to him.
Who wouldnât be?
Even prior to knowing who he is, you could sense his strong aura. Youâve had your fair share of Jungkooks in your life and when every time someone like him comes by, it felt new. Theyâre a trailer truck you didnât saw coming, hurling towards you in top speed for them to only crash and burn.
Youâll pick yourself up again, piece by piece. Then when you thought you're good on your own, youâll meet another. The signs were familiar and clear, yet it all felt the same. New and captivating, yet old and sickening.
Despite the realization, you pretended to be okay. You made it through dinner and made it through the drive back home.
Time went by in a blur: your soft conversations and his knowing glances, the way his eyes gleamed like there were stars in them, the way he would place his subtle touch you thought you havenât noticed before - like his hand on your waist when you walk, like sitting beside you on that restaurant instead of sitting across. All throughout you didnât point it out. Afraid to ruin the bubble.
That night, Jungkook walked you to your house. When you thought he would stop by the fence, he followed until your front door.
You turned to him with uneasy eyes and fast beating heart.
âGood night,â you muttered meekly, forcing a smile on your lips.
Jungkook pulled you back to him when you turned around. You gasped as you met his calculating eyes. In a blink, his lips smashed against yours. Fire swirled in your veins as it flickered off in tendrils.
You both crashed and burned. Tangled in your sheets, he left you memories that you knew would give you a hard time reliving. As they all did.
Somehow, at the precipice, you knew what you have with him is temporary. You wished for it be real, but you know better. As everything comes down from the high, you prayed that his memory of you will haunt him. Like what all your past lovers went through.
Still, until the last minute of your time together, you wished this one is different.
Men are monkeys, babies are puppies, you were set on living as a cool aunt who'd only appear on reunions bearing the coolest gifts. That is until Yoongi made you think otherwise.
Genre: Fluff, talks about marriage, Idol!Yoongi
Word count: 5.3k
----
"I don't wanna get married," you answered firmly without looking at the man who asked. Yoongi knocked on your door at 1 in the morning to hangout. You were on your bed reading a book while he's fiddling on his phone on your couch. Your extra pillow and comforter laid out on the side.
"Why not? You have a job and you live on your own," he asked further, watching you as your eyes read the sentences at the bottom page line by line.
You flipped to the next page and replied, "I can't even look after myself. Add another one in the picture then more in the future... nuh-uh."
"I think it's the opposite. You'll have someone to look after you, cutting that work in half. As for the children, they would be amazing and you'd be a cool mom."
You scrunched your forehead as you tried to concentrate on the sentence you're reading. Something about how humans are social beings and how the same behavior can be observed in chimpanzees.
"I don't wanna share my bed and I like to fart in peace. As for children, even one, would cost me millions. I already spend 5% of my salary on laser treatments, a fortune on my gym membership and diet, I also pay for my parents' vacation. How about my spa days, facials, therapy, shopping spree? What I mean is, I love living this way and I don't want gremlins sucking out all my hard work. I did that to my parents. I'd hate to have another me," you finished, shutting the book as your concentration's diverted to Yoongi's entertainment talk at 1 am.
"Your reasons are ridiculous."
"Because marriage is."
"And money shouldn't be an issue here."
"For a superstar like you, it isn't," you countered.
"It's not. I don't understand why you're against it."
You sighed and placed the book on the bedside table. "Yoongi, I know it's your 1 am thoughts speaking. I can list down reasons from overpopulation to climate change, from recession to farting in peace, from debating where to spend a holiday to letting myself go to bed without washing up. Can we just drop this? Okay marriage is wonderful, for you. For me, it's not. We agree to disagree. I'm sleepy, okay?"
âYou just want to continue your disgusting way of life,â he attacked.
âI do. Iâm not giving it up.â
Yoongi looked dejected, but you failed to notice that as you turn off your bedside lamp. He huffed and tucked under the covers before reaching for the lamp beside the couch.
During your first few months in Seoul, you were introduced to him by a mutual friend and when that friend learned that Yoongi was looking for a conversation partner, you were set up with him. You became friends eventually as you both learned that aside from the language, you vibed along each other. A year passed by and you still kept in touch. However, he only got busier and busier. Yoongi would show up at your place early in the morning like this and would have breakfast with you after. Your friendship with him is different in a sense that while you go out for dinners and night outs with your other friends and officemates, time with Yoongi would be watching tv together and having breakfast. He would call sometimes for you to join him in a road trip and you would spend an entire day on the road, eating ramen at rest stops. While you go to karaoke with people, you would be singing to the radio in his car. Despite all that, you like it. He's nice, funny, and sometimes scary, but nothing that you couldn't handle.
And that's his thing.
Aside from his members, you were the only one who could handle him.
------
It was already 2 in the morning when you arrived in your building. Your clothes a bit disheveled but still decent, your hair waved down from a bun due to a hair tie you lost somewhere in one of the clubs you hopped in with your friends. You were smiling to yourself when you were stopped on your tracks at the sight of someone standing opposite the door of your apartment, all clothed in black, the hoodie hiding the face.
You sighed in relief when the man looked up and you recognized Yoongi. "You scared me," you told him, your hand clutching your chest.
"Just open the door. I've been waiting for 30 minutes," he muttered under his breath.
You silently went to your door while he kicked himself off against the wall, walking behind you. You slowly typed on the keypad.
"Remember the passcode so you won't have to wait outside next time," you said, turning the knob and swinging the door open.
The light flickered on at the movement. Your eyes immediately caught the half-eaten toast on the table, the avocado browning on top, unrecognizable, if you didnât remember the breakfast you had this morning. Your clothes and towels were sprawled on the floor and the dining seat.
You swept through the mess while Yoongi turned all the lights of your studio apartment on.
âI was in a hurry this morning, I forgot to clean,â you excused, throwing the clothes on the hamper, flinging the towel on your shoulder, and grabbing the plate to the sink.
You paused at the sight of empty bowls and utensils, all left unwashed. You placed the plate on the counter and headed for the hamper, dumping the towel there.
You found Yoongi, his back on you, and heard a stream of water rush through. You ran to him in a stride, holding his hands. âIâll do it! Just sit on the couch, Iâll be quick,â you insisted, grabbing the gloves and stopping him from washing the dishes.
He didnât insist and walked away. After a beat, you heard the air sweeping in the apartment as he opened the window. He wagged your sheets off.
âWhen was the last time you cleaned?â
âI just changed those last week!â
âYeah, but your place feels stuffed.â
After a while, you heard your vacuum in a silent whir. You twirled around, seeing Yoongi vacuuming the floor.
âYoongi. Iâll do it. Just sit,â you complained, feeling a bit embarrassed at the situation he found you. He didnât reply and just continued cleaning.
âI have a busy week. Iâm supposed to clean on Saturdayââ
âItâs already Saturday,â
âYou know what I mean.â
âYou have a small space. You can clean this in 10 minutes.â
âI know. I was just really busy.â
âYou can clean this after work.â
âMy boss invited us for dinner then my friends called.â
âYou could have had househelp or pay for cleaning service.â
âThis is a studio apartment and I live alone.â
âThen just get married,â
You dropped the spoon youâre scrubbing and turned to him. Yoongi was crouching down, reaching for the crooks and nooks of your table with the vacuumâs portable nozzle.
âMin. Seriously.â
âIâm just saying.â
âWhatever, grandpa,â you groaned. âI shouldâve said yes to that one-night stand with Eric or whoever he is,â you muttered, but in that small space, he heard you loud and clear.
âY/n!â he yelled, the vacuum still working in a whir, the hood of his jacket falling off, revealing his glowing face. Why did you purchase that damn expensive silent machine?
âWhat? Next time send me a message when youâre coming over, okay?â you annoyingly replied.
He huffed, âSo you could fuck an Eric behind my back?â
At times, his visits would turn into banters, mostly when you both express your different opinions on things. You donât take it to the heart, but he could get annoying, and you could sense when heâs annoyed too. You know better not to reply as his voice was filled with venom.
---
You were alone in his place at ten in the evening. Yoongi texted you his passcode and asked you to wait for him. He arrived home at midnight, finding you asleep on the sofa with your laptop still turned on. He didnât bother to wake you up and covered you with a duvet instead. You didnât even stir as he slipped a pillow under your head.
âMorning,â you greeted as you rounded the counter to watch him cook.
âSorry. I thought Iâd finish early last night,â he said as he flipped the pancake.
You leaned your hip against the counter, your eyes trained on the pan. âItâs okay.â
âPrepare the coffee,â he commanded. You chuckled and walked off, âGood morning to me too. Thank you, self, letâs prepare coffee for Yoongi.â
At the table, you both silently started breakfast. Itâs the weekend and you woke up earlier than usual as youâve heard the rustling in his kitchen. His place is bigger and very well maintained, unlike yours. Well, he has someone cleaning up for him, but youâd rather save that money for yourself.
âAre you moving out of your place?â he asked as he drank from his glass.
You looked up with curiosity, wondering how he knew. You havenât told anyone.
âI am. How did you know?â
He tilted his head towards the living area and said, âI didnât mean to, but you left your laptop on last night. Itâs opened on a listing.â
You shrugged then shook your head in resignation, âMy landlord raised the rent. Itâs just outside my budget. Then all the places I found within my price range are a bit far from my work. Although,â you trailed off, turning your full attention on him. You placed down your fork and knife.
âI found this really nice place in digital city, they have a nice wide park at the front, then the sunlight is good, itâs near museums. Itâs just a bit over my price range, but not as high as the increased rate of my current place. What do you think?â
âItâs far,â he commented, slicing on his pancake.
âBus is cheap,â you supplied before munching on the scrambled eggs.
Yoongi swallowed, his brows furrowing, then said, âYou have to wake up early.â
âThatâs easy.â
Placing his knife and fork down, he asked, âWhat if you work late at night? Youâll travel an hour on your own taking a taxi? You always finish late,â he ended picking back up the knife and fork again. He watched you intently as he works on another slice.
You pursed your lips, considering the point heâs implying. However, thatâs the best deal you could find so far.
âIt would be a waste to let it pass though,â you defended.
âWhy the hurry?â he asked with a hint of his dialect accent.
âThe landlord wants me to move out in a month,â you informed him, your lips turned down and you sighed in exasperation.
âHe canât do that.â
âI know! But someone else is already interested and wants to move in asap. He told me last week,â you said in a pout.
âThen just stay here until you can find a place. Iâm sure somewhere nearby would open up soon,â he nonchalantly offered as he continued eating.
You waved your hand, âI canât do that to you. Thanks for the offer though. Digital city is not a bad place, itâs upscale, though a bit far, but yeah, I like it.â
Yoongi placed his fork down and sternly looked at you, âItâs not sustainable. Imagine going back and forth for a year early in the morning,â he started, his free hand emphasizing his point, âthen how much a taxi ride would cost across the city late at night? Youâll get tired. Transportation is expensive too.â
You shrugged and defended, âWhat can I do then? It is what it is.â
âJust donât rush. Itâs not easy to look for a place. In the meantime, just stay here. Itâs the end of the month so move in here as soon as possible so you wonât have to pay for your rent next month.â
You paused and gauged his expression. He seemed serious and genuinely offers you a solution. He has a point. Your lips quivered and your heart exploded in gratitude.
âYoongi!â you yelled. Then you walked to his side and hugged him by the waist.
âYouâre so nice. You didnât really have to, you know. Are you sure?â you murmured, leaning your head on his shoulder.
âYeah. I have a spare bedroom here. I donât really mind.â
You let him go and grinned, âIâll move out as soon as I can, I promise.â
âDonât bother yourself too much about it. Prioritize your work,â he grumbled, stuffing a piece of bacon in his mouth. You beamed at him regardless. You reached for the pitcher and filled his half-empty glass of water.
---
A month passed by and you kind of dwelled into some kind of normalcy living together. Itâs nothing much different really. Except that your hangouts and breakfasts occur every day now. You would take turns in cooking and cleaning, making it easier for both of your schedules. Surprisingly, your weekends are pretty much spent apart. You would go to the gym or be out for a run in a whole morning then just camp inside your bedroom for the rest of the day.
You were browsing again for a place and took note of a good prospect. Maybe youâll give the contact a call tomorrow. Work piled up again, allowing you less time to browse, but finishing a project got you an ample free time to do anything you want for now. The apartment looks neat in the picture and the rateâs good. It made you somehow relieved and hoped that you could move out soon. Although you know Yoongi doesnât mind, youâre still not comfortable with the idea that youâre staying in his place for free. The grandpa just wonât budge.
The front door beeped and swung open, revealing your friend and current landlord. You sauntered to him, but you were stopped on your tracks when you could smell the alcohol even at a meterâs distance.
You scrunched your nose at the scent, observing his hazed state, âAre you drunk?â
He chuckled, âNo. Just buzzed,â he answered, fumbling out of his shoes.
You turned around and headed for the kitchen to fetch him a glass of water. Yoongi followed suit and silently accepted the drink.
He let out a refreshed sigh after he downed the whole glass in one shot. His cheeks are a bit red and his eyes looked sleepy.
You chuckled at the sight and brushed his hair away from his face, cupping his cheeks against your palm. âYou should take meds, so you wonât have a headache tomorrow.â
Yoongi hummed, his weight was beginning to rest on you. You ducked away from the smell of his breath.
âYou stink. Wash up and sleep already,â you told him, walking out and going back to the living area to continue your search.
His bedroom door fell shut and ten minutes later it swung open again, revealing him in his usual sweater and shorts. He looked more awake now.
You glanced back to your laptop and said, âWhy arenât you asleep?â
âJust âcause.â
He sat beside you, watching what youâre doing. His arms were idly placed on your back.
âYou still looking for a place?â
You nodded and hummed.
âY/n,â he called.
You just hummed back, scrolling down the page. You clicked on one particular result and read the details.
Yoongi sighed beside you, making you look at him. Your eyes met his.
He glanced down to your lips before leaning in. Your eyes fluttered close as he placed a chaste kiss.
You were confused at his action for a bit because you didnât see it coming at all until the last second. However, Yoongi didnât give you time to process as he dove in for another, kissing you deeper.
He took your laptop from your lap in one hand and placed it on the coffee table. His hand snaked through your waist, pulling you closer to him. His tongue felt warm and invading. All of your senses fell shut and all you could focus on was his kiss. You parted away, glancing at his half-lidded gaze. Yoongi trailed kisses from your cheeks to the side of your face. You squirmed as he coyly bit your earlobe.
âYoongi,â your voice came out softly. Your hands were placed on his upper arm and your palms pushed against it, feeling its firmness.
âIâm sorry. I got carried away,â he replied, his voice rasped.
You met his eyes and said, âItâs okay. Really,â you assured him. You were surprised at his sudden display of affection. It made you wonder what pushed him to be that way or maybe it was just the alcohol. Heâs a good friend and given his persona, you just thought that he wonât ever see you that way.
Yoongiâs a good guy. Heâs a good friend.
But as a loverâŚ
You clenched your fists at even entertaining that thought.
âY/n,â he called, pulling you out of your turmoil.
His eyes intently glanced into yours. âIâm okay, youâre okay, right?â
You nodded, unsure.
âWeâre okay. Nothing has to change,â he muttered.
âAlright,â you replied meekly. Somehow relieved. You looked down as you placed your hands on your lap. Yoongi held you by your wrists and wrapped your arms around him. Your head came into contact against his chest, wafting a hint of his bodywash.
You donât know how long youâve stayed in that position. Yoongi laid down later on, taking you with him. Neither of you spoke and just enjoyed each otherâs company as youâve done before hundreds of times, though less the cuddling.
As your eyes fell shut from the way heâs caressing your back and patting your thigh in a rhythmic lullaby, you reminded yourself: nothing has to change.
---
You were sweaty from the body heat hogging your personal space. Your disgust turned into calmness when you found Yoongi sleeping peacefully next to you.
Every time he would come home, he would pester you in your room, stealing your laptop and use it to watch random YouTube videos. You just sigh and hit him with a pillow but would end up laughing with him at some funny compilations until your consciousness ease down and fall asleep. Heâs very much making the room youâre using his own bedroom. You didnât complain and just let him be.
Just then your tummy grumbled, letting out gas. You giggled in embarrassment and saw his forehead in a scrunch, telling you heâs awake.
He moaned and complained, âWhat kind of garbage did you eat last night?â
You beamed even though he kept his eyes closed, âGood morning!â
âYou farted,â he whined, stealing the pillow under your head and covered his face with it.
You laughed and proudly declared, âBe honored. I only fart in front of my brother.â
He took the pillow out of his face and glared at you.
âWe kissed. Thatâs gross.â
Chuckling, you replied, âWell, aside from that.â
---
It was the holidays, but you have nothing to spend it with. You were just really planning to stay at home and rest like youâve done for the past weekends, but Yoongi managed to drag you back to his hometown. You left at dawn, cruising through the highway at a relaxed pace. Youâve done it a couple of times but being on the road and enjoying the scenery never gets old.
He fondly glanced at you singing along to songs and he would laugh when you rap to Eminem. Most of them were just babbles and broken distinguishable words at each end of the line. When you managed to rap a full half verse, he cheered.
It went off to the chorus and you both sang to it, with you doing the double lines.
âJagi, you improved now,â he told you, his eyes glinting in amusement. You know your rap is bad, but his comment made you happy.
âIs that a compliment? Iâm honored,â you teased, beaming at him. You ignored the endearment that slipped out of his mouth. You noticed he does it often lately, but never called him out on it. Still, his use of endearment and physical affection didnât change anything.
âNo. You still suck at it, â he replied in a serious face.
And thatâs one of the reasons why. He would turn back to his savage self in a blink.
You laid against the headrest, glancing at him. You chuckled when you caught him grinning, his gums showing.
You turned to the back seat and found the dessert you packed safely in place. Itâs a courtesy for you to not come to someone elseâs house empty-handed. When Yoongi argued that you didnât have to, you scowled at him and told him to let you be. At the end, he just gave you his do-what-you-want nod.
You were not nervous at all when you met his parents. They were nice and welcoming. If youâll be meeting the parents of a supposed boyfriend, maybe you have run for the hills now, but itâs Yoongiâs parents. You heard a lot about them, especially his dad. Yoongi impersonates the way he talks and would even quote him.
The time of your arrival was just nice for lunch. You sat beside Yoongi and thanked his mom and dad for allowing you to come over and for the meal they prepared.
In the middle of it, his mom asked, âY/n, how did you meet our Yoongi?â
She was in contrast of the cold demeanor of his son. Sometimes, you wonder where he got it. âThrough a mutual friend, Mrs. Min. I was his conversation partner for some time. Yoongi helped me with the language here a lot.â
At this, his mother looked interested, âHow did that work?â
You turned to your friend if he would bother explaining, but he just continued eating, âYoongi and I just talk about things. We take turns in practicing the language weâre learning. Then we would correct each other.â
His father nodded and his mother let out a knowing, âAhâŚâ
Then they further asked about your life in your home country, as well as your parentsâ thoughts on working abroad and away from them. Basically, you were in a hot seat for a few minutes asking about your family, how you came to Seoul, and your career. It went on until Yoongi interrupted.
âIs this a job interview?â he rudely asked, making his parents pause at their questioning.
You turned to him, abashed, but he was just chuckling. His parents, on the other hand, both pursed their lips and looked at you hesitatingly, wondering if they were being offensive.
âItâs alright. People are usually interested in those things if you come from a different background,â you told them reassuringly.
âI get these questions a lot,â you added. Which is true. You memorized the answers to those frequently asked questions like the back of your hand. You know when to pause to wait for their oohâs and aahâs, what expression would prompt you to explain further, and even the gestures of your hand.
But since Yoongi ruined the flow of the conversation, you looked around and talked about the interior of the house and how big it is. You started with the collection you noticed.
His father basked in your amusement on the ornaments displayed at the corner, âI chose them myself. I curated this,â he gestured on the wall, âall the way there to that wall,â he joyfully told you, pointing at the intricate shelf divider. The mini sculptures, furniture, and paintings made the space looked like a museum or a presidentâs office.
Yoongiâs mother frowned at her husband and turned to you, âYoongi spent a lot on those displays because of his father. I told him itâs too much!â
âWhy? It looks nice and they can pass it to their children and grandchildren! The values of these will go up! Donât you agree, Y/n?â
âI bought some myself too, so they have more to pass on,â his father added, defending himself.
You donât know how to react amidst their banter that you just looked at Yoongi again. Thankfully, this time, he caught your gaze.
âDid you had my room cleaned? I donât want to sleep in the guest room,â he diverted.
His mother answered, âOf course! We prepared the guest room too for Y/n.â
Yoongiâs brows scrunched. âYou shouldnât have bothered. We sleep together.â
Your mouth fell agape at his bluntness.
âYou sleep together?â his father parroted.
Yoongi simply nodded, âShe lives with me. Havenât I told you?â
Then he mumbled, âI thought I told you over the phone? Ah, maybe that was Jin.â
You laughed meekly and clarified, âItâs only temporary, Mr. and Mrs. Min. Yoongi kindly offered me a spare bedroom in his apartment. Iâm moving out maybe in a month? The landlord told me that his tenantâs lease would end soon.â
"You didn't tell me this," Yoongi pointed out, his tone sounding a bit tensed.
You chuckled and lightly replied, "I told you I won't stay for a long time."
"You didn't tell me you have a place already. You should've let me know so I could check on it."
You glanced at his mom then to his dad nervously before going back to him. You're nervous at the way he's acting sore about it. In front of his parents.
You smiled, trying to lighten up the damp atmosphere he caused, "You don't have to, Yoongi."
"I have to, I'll be sleeping there."
Your eyes widened a fraction and you turned to his parents defensively. They're looking as shocked as you, but for a different reason you badly want to correct.
"It's not like that, Mr. and Mrs. Min. We're really just friends."
His mother laughed, though it sounded forced, âWe know how kids are these days. No need to explain yourself, Y/n.â
You were about to correct her again when Yoongi placed his spoon down with a thud, startling the three of you. He let out a loud sigh and stood up. âIâll check up on Holly,â he muttered.
"Yoongi-" you called to stop him from leaving you with his own parents, but he just ignored you and went out.
You pursed your lips and bowed down to his parents in apology. "I'm sorry for his behavior. He's just tired from the long drive." You looked up and threw a timid smile, "I'll talk to him later."
His dad opened his mouth to say something but kept still while glancing at his wife.
"I think you should go after him now. It's okay," he finally said after a beat.
"Ah..." you trailed off, thinking about how to explain. "Just let him be for a few minutes, Mr. Min. He'll come back."
And true to your words, his parents were surprised when their son came back to the table few minutes later in the middle of them asking you about the Korean dishes you like.
Yoongi just silently sat down and took his chopsticks. You looked at him as he browsed the table and you immediately picked a meat for him, placing it on his plate.
"I don't have kimchi," he muttered.
His mother was about to stand up but she stopped when her husband placed a hand on her forearm.
You reached for your own serving and placed it beside him.
"You can have mine."
You turned to his mom as she let out a chuckle.
"I'll get more for you, Y/n."
"Oh, thank you, Mrs. Min,"
The whole table was silent even after Mrs. Min went back and placed down new plates of kimchi for everyone. It was only for a while before she cleared her throat and talked.
"Do you have a boyfriend, Y/n?"
"Mom," Yoongi warned.
You lightly answered, "None, Mrs. Min,"
She pursed her lips as if thinking. Her eyes switching between you and her son making her suspicious.
You know how mothers would be against people coming from a different background, so you reassured her again.
"Yoongi and I are really just good friends, Mrs. Min. He invited me here since I have no one to spend the holiday with. I really owe you a lot for allowing me to tag along."
She waved her hand off, âAnything for my precious Yoongi.â
Smile escaped your lips at her endearment.
---
The rest of the weekend holiday was good. His parents took you to a nearby farm while Yoongi basically just tagged along. He left you talking to them and would walk behind. Every time you find it hard to explain or understand things you would turn back and call for him. He would catch up and join in to help, then would lag behind later.
It was already late in the evening when you arrived back in the city. You went straight to your room and washed up for bed, feeling the blues of another work week seep into your consciousness. At the end, your exhaustion from the travel lulled you to sleep.
"Jagi,"
You stirred at the familiar voice. Swaying between sleep and wakefulness, you hummed in reply.
Yoongi whispered your name this time.
You hear a click and warm light flashed against your closed lids. Squinting your eyes open, you found his nervous ones. Yoongi was kneeling on the floor, leveling his head to yours. You pulled back a bit to see his face.
"What?" you groaned at him when he kept staring.
"I..." he trailed off, his eyes unfocused, not knowing where to start.
He closed his eyes in agony and you furrowed your brows in worry. "Is everything alright?"
He looked at you quickly and nodded yes. "Everything's fine. Perfect."
"What time is it?"
"It's 3 am."
You moaned in annoyance, "What the hell, Yoongi? Go back to sleep."
"I haven't. I can't sleep."
You sighed and moved back, away from your side of the bed, giving him space, "Lie down and close your eyes."
He hesitated for a bit but still followed your order.
Once he settled under the sheets, he found you going back to sleep. He muttered your name under his breath.
"Fuck you. I have work at 9 am," you grumbled.
He called for you again.
But this time, you turned your back against him in reply.
Yoongi slipped his arms from behind, spooning you, his fingers clasping against your left hand.
"Yoongi, please, let's sleep," you whined, firmly holding your eyes closed.
He sighed slowly before whispering carefully against your ear, âMarry me?â
Silence.
You could feel his heart beating fast against your back as he waited in anticipation. It was a shot in the dark, literally and figuratively. Yoongi just had this eureka moment when you arrived home. You fell into his life and swirled in the gaps and cracks he barely noticed that was there. He thought he had everything, until you. You were the person he thought he wouldn't mind not having, but seeing how everything clicked into place, the picture became complete. Like the varnish he thought he wouldnât need on a painting he just finished.
"Fine," you replied, your voice soft and tender. Then you added, "Just let me sleep," you said in a firm tone.
Yoongi let out a relieved sigh. "I sent flight tickets to your parents. Next week. I took care of everything for their visit. My parents will visit the city too," he whispered, careful with the volume of his voice.
You let out a sigh, "I'm telling you if this marriage will be fucked up, I'm leaving."
He groaned in response, "Let fuck fuck with itself," he murmured while he squeezed more into your space, inhaling your scent. Sleep came fast to him as he finally made you agree.
Prompt: âYouâre early,â said the grim reaper with a hint of amusement.
Fantasy au, sageuk au, royalty au, grimreaper!jungkook, reader, romance, slow-burn
Words: 1.9k approx. Part 4/7
Content warning: smut, violence, angst
This is the last part in my Tumblr account. Part 5 to 7 (fin)Â can be found in my wattpad account
--
You stayed home the whole morning, staring out the window. You watched the cars passing by the bridge crossing the Han river.
Now you're plopped down on the couch while Jungkook is vacuuming the floor.
"Don't you have work today?" you asked.
Jungkook shook his head in reply. "There's no one on my schedule. I checked."
"Why don't you have a TV here? How do you pass time?" you whined. You might be safer compared to being outside, encountering different souls and human energies, but you thought this kind of boredom could kill too.
You learned last night that you don't tire out like a human does. It's your energy running out, which can be restored by sleep, rest, or eating food offerings for those who passed. However, if you stayed long enough wandering, those wouldn't suffice. Ghosts like Taehyung's assignee and the man in that business district, they feed off from wandering souls like you. Your energy is still of a human because you died in a wrong time, but they could easily get your energy from your form.
Jungkook didn't respond and continued cleaning.
You sighed. You're fully rested, so you can't really go back and sleep the day off.
You jumped at an idea, "How about I visit my funeral?" you didn't really want to. You don't want to see your family and friends being sad because of your passing. Besides, the spirit guide promised you that you could go back to your old life. You just have to wait. And you have a powerful grim reaper protecting you, so you're all good.
He shook his head, and firmly said, "No. It's not safe there. I told you that's a hotspot for starving souls."
"But I have you!" you insisted.
Jungkook turned off the vacuum, placing a hand on his hip, squaring his shoulders. He then said, "Remember when the lady almost got you? What if we encounter five of them? I'm not omnipotent, Y/n. I'd lay my life to protect you, but I don't really die so it's pointless. Once you're out of my grasp, you're on your own."
His warning rendered you speechless. Unconsciously, you huffed in a pout.
Jungkook's expression fell at your reaction, but there's nothing else he could do.
The doorbell rang.
Both of you turned to the sound.
The grim reaper tucked in the vacuum, leaving it to stand, before going to the door.
"Sir Jeon," you heard a wavering man's voice.
"Mr. Choi, what brought you here?" Jungkook queried, his voice tensed. He repeatedly wished for you not to show yourself and he hoped telepathy would work. But of course, your curiosity won. You peeked from the hallway and saw a man in his 30's.
His gaze shifted from Jungkook to yours. His eyes widened in thirst. For a second, the white of his eyes faded.
"Mr. Choi," Jungkook snapped.
The ghost stared back to him, as his eyes went back to normal.
"Sir Jungkook. It's my daughter. She's having a fever and her mother's not yet back from the business trip," the man explained.
"Her nanny didn't show up this morning. She's been alone since last night," he went on, his sweaty hands fidgeting as he asked for help. "Please, help her."
Jungkook stilled for a moment, before responding, "I'm not allowed to make calls in the human world, Mr. Choi. I'm not allowed to interfere on that matter."
Mr. Choi kneeled, pressing his hands together, and begged, "Please, sir. I, I tried to help. I've been trying to possess a human's body but my soul is too weak. I haven't fed for weeks. I couldn't visit a burial without getting killed by a starving ghost. Please, you're all I have."
"Mr. Choi-"
"Her!" he pointed at you.
"She can help."
Mr. Choi looked at you, his eyes pleading.
"Please help my daughter," he asked you directly.
Jungkook backed away from the door, "No," he sternly said. "She's not fit for what you're asking."
The man argued, "She just died! I can feel her energy from here, she could possess anyone easily!"
Then insisted, "Young lady, please. It's not that much. Just bring her to the hospital."
Jungkook stood firm, resolved to kick the man out, "I said no. Go-"
"Jungkook. It's okay. I'll help him," you said to him.
"Y/n," his voice laced with disapproval, while the man bowed repeatedly. "Thank you! Thank you!" he uttered over and over in gratefulness.
--
When you arrived at the apartment complex, you started looking around for someone to possess. You saw a college student, much like you, walking. Jungkook stopped you before you could take a step.
"Not her. She's not well rested. You'll be stuck in her body if her soul surrendered."
You nodded and tried to look for another. There's another woman, but she's with her child. It seemed like they're waiting for a taxi.
You surveyed the area. There are only cars passing by the highway.
Mr. Choi hesitatingly spoke, "Please hurry, it took me long to get to you,"
He pursed his lips shut when Jungkook sent him a deadly glare.
Clasping your hands together, you decided to go for the woman. You looked at Jungkook for permission, but he's been nothing but adamant.
So, you strolled forward, with much determination.
Upon nearing the lady, you whispered, "I'll be quick, promise," though she couldn't hear you.
You stepped into her shell, her soul resisting. You can feel yours slowly seeping in.
You tightly closed your eyes and soothingly muttered, "I'll be quick. A young girl's alone in the apartment and she's been sick. Please."
You opened your eyes and felt your spirit settled. You stared at the lady's free hand, then you felt a tug.
Her son stared up at you and said, "Mommy, there's the cab," he informed.
You looked at the driver and waved your hand dismissively. You crouched down to the boy's height and held his face.
"Mommy needs to visit a friend's place first. Okay?" you spoke, while trying not to be startled by your new voice.
The boy nodded.
You gave him a reassuring smile which turned to joy when he smiled back. Showing a gap between his teeth.
Holding the boy's hand, you faced Jungkook and Mr. Choi.
Mr. Choi beamed and led the way to his daughter.
--
You sat beside the hospital bed as you listened to the doctor. "She'll be monitored every four hours. You have nothing to worry about," he smiled at you and to the boy beside you.
"Thank you, doctor. I'll call her mother right away," you informed him.
"Don't mention it. How kind of you to look after your friend's child, Mrs. Kim," he said.
You blinked repeatedly and smiled awkwardly, "Ah, of course."
Then you looked at him as you wait for him to leave.
After an uncomfortable silence, you renewed your smile, "Doc?"
"Ah, yes. Well, then... I have to go. Lots of patients to attend to."
You nodded in reply. You watched him walk away before tripping on his own steps. A chuckle escaped Jungkook's lips, he tried to suppress it to no avail.
--
By the time you managed to bring the boy and the lady back to their home, the sun was already down. The lamp post flickered as you stepped out of the building. Then a snowflake fell on your nose before it passed through, landing on the pavement.
You reached out your hand to catch the first snow only for it to slip through.
Your lips pulled into a bitter smile. At least, you couldn't feel the cold.
Noticing your feet, you moved forward, one step after another.
If you were alive, the road's roughness would scrunch under your feet, the falling snow crystals would land on your skin then would melt away; if you were alive, you'd see your breath in this unforgivable winter.
It's only been days since, but you couldn't help but become impatient. More than a week of waiting would feel like a year.
"You okay?" Jungkook asked as he walked beside you.
Turning to him, you said, "Could be better,"
He nodded. "Let's find a door,"
You touched his arm to stop him, you feel like walking. At least that way, you'd be able to feel the first snow with your eyes.
"Can we walk instead?" you asked.
He frowned and answered, "You look tired. You almost spent a day in someone's body. It should've drained you. I'd need to ask Yoongi or Taehyung to bring us food."
Taking off your hand from him, you tried your best to hide your disappointment. "Just 5 minutes," you bargained. He paused to think, assessing the situation. Afterwards, he agreed.
"Thanks."
You walked forward, watching the sky. The orange light from the posts sparkled against the falling flakes. You basked in the simple beauty you failed to appreciate.
The glitters on the pavement
The rustling of the road as a car passed by
The ding of the bicycle dashing through, towards you
You stood frozen in shock as the biker permeated. It felt like the gravity engulfed you out of your soul, if that's still possible. You're left with nothing now, this is your form at your purest state.
You wobbled and before hitting the ground, Jungkook pulled you by the elbow. Your chest flushed against his as you looked at his face. His features etched with worry.
It felt familiar.
his hold
his arms,
his eyes,
this scene,
the weather.
Everything.
A dĂŠjĂ vu.
Jungkook felt it too. That was evident on how his concerned frown softened into a gaze of longing and admiration.
He couldn't put a name on his emotions, but it felt unstoppable.
It felt right to close the distance between you.
It felt right to rest his palm against your crimson-painted cheeks.
It felt right to acknowledge the pull.
Your eyes shuttered close as his lips met yours.
Everything felt familiar.
You both knew.
And as if the spell that bound you worn out, you pulled apart from each other. Averting each other's eyes.
Jungkook broke the silence by clearing his throat. He then muttered, "Let's go home. You're tired."
After a while, he found a door by the sidewalk. He jerked it to see if it's open and after confirming, he shut it close again.
He laid his hand out to you, at which you took without protest.
Then you were now in his apartment's hallway.
The rest of the night were spent in silence as he retreated to his room.
--
"Taehyung brought this for you," Jungkook blurted as he saw you stirring awake.
The space was lit by the morning light and clanking of plates rung through as the two grim reapers prepare on the dining table.
"I heard you had a rough day. I wish I could've brought food earlier, but I had a graveyard shift," Taehyung explained in a sad face.
You waved your hand dismissively, "It's fine. No worries. I just slept it off."
Taehyung's face lit up, he looked at you, smiling, "I got porridge. They put shrimps and eggs on it. First class."
"I also got tangerines. Though we must save two handfuls for Yoongi-hyung. He's on his way here."
The main door banged open at once, startling you.
"Oops, sorry 'bout that. Hi Y/n," Yoongi greeted.
Jungkook placed the last plate on the table before looking up at the eldest, "Yoongi-hyung, come eat with us."
genre: angst, romance, unconventional relationship
warning: eventual smut
A/N: cross-posted; the story continues at Part 18 in wattpad;
1 2 3 4
Part 4
words: 2,595
Drumming your fingers on the steering wheel, you unconsciously bit your lip as you tried to sort your thoughts out. You even closed your eyes⌠forehead scrunched in confusion as your failed attempt to detach yourself from all the happenings irritated you more.
Prompt: âYouâre early,â said the grim reaper with a hint of amusement.
Fantasy au, grimreaper!jungkook, reader, romance, slow-burn
Words: 3.4k approx. Part 3/5
Check this out on my wattpad account! I post one part ahead there.
--
Hollowing emptiness filled up your chest as a barren land came into view. An empty riverbed covered with ashes. You squinted against the ray of the sun.
You see nothing but the sky's horizon, another glare of light sent you looking down. Your hand served as the only shade against the glaring sun.
Blink.
Everything went dark.
A yearning love.
Your fist was clenched against your heart as it ached from within. You feel butterflies in your stomach. The unsettling yet warm feeling grew and grew until it became too much it made you curl down.
Everything feels soft against your skin. Silk satin draped around your body. You looked up, finding yourself in a bedchamber. Lamps were laid out on the wooden floor and on the tables, lighting up the darkness with dimmed warmth. You saw a man. His back against yours. His shoulder spanned wide as he slipped in a red robe.
Your fingers ached to reach him, to hold.
You lifted your hand.
Then suddenly, you're running on an empty hallway. Things passing in a blur.
Your eyes feel strained, your face drenched wet with sweat and your mouth could taste the salty tears running down your cheeks. Lifting your layered petticoat, the silk of its outer skirt crumpled against your palm.
Despite the confusion, you continued running. You just know you have to.
You have to escape.
They're coming.
Then a sudden realization stopped you in your tracks. As if air was pushed out of your lungs.
A high-pitched cry ripped through the air, like a wounded animal's, but it was from you. You found the helpless sound coming from your throat. You stared down at your arms grasping your body for something you could hold.
You realized you lost everything you fought for.
You're empty, yet you're filled full to the brim. Your cup overflowing with gut-wrenching pain, loss, and grief. Those emotions were deep-rooted from the love you have for him.
It dawned you.
It's all his fault.
The man you thought you love.
It's his fault.
He brought you nothing but suffering. You laid your heart out and sought for the little love he could give.
Yet there's been no one to yearn for but him, the future you could have together, the family you could have built. If things were just different.
A nightmare
That's what it is.
You jolted awake in a cold sweat.
Breathing in and out, you calmed yourself. Everything was just a dream. You're not dead. You're here in...
Whose place is this?
You turned to the creak of a door. Jungkook's all dressed in black. A fedora hat on his hand.
"Y/n," he greeted. "How was your sleep?"
"Jungkook?" you asked. Confused at how you knew his name.
His eyes went wide before nodding. "Yeah, I'm Jungkook, your assigned grim reaper."
You exhaled as you realized last night was not a dream. You died by mistake. In your sweater and pajamas.
"By the way, I have clothes for you. I figured you should come with me. For your safety,"
He then opened his bedroom door wider for you to come in.
--
The black trench coat felt heavy on your shoulder. Your outfit is similar to his, except the sordid hat on his head. He figured you could look like a grim reaper to ward off any wandering souls. Scaring them might help, save for the starving ones like the woman you encountered last night.
It's been five minutes of standing by on a bus stop. He just stood there and stared off in a distance. On an ordinary day, you thought you'd be stared down by the odd combo of your outfits, but at that moment, your presence was not visible to their eyes.
Jungkook pulled out his tablet as you watch the pedestrians crossing the street, envying how they go on with their mundane routine. Jungkook's brows furrowed as he navigated through the gadget, as if re-reading something.
You saw a ball rolled off the street, its owner chasing after the object. The boy sped off at the last few seconds, oblivious to the truck speeding above the limit.
Pointing your finger to the child, you tried to notify the people around you, "The-the..." you stuttered.
There's no time.
You ran to the boy without much thought, failing to notice you went to your desired position in a blink.
The grim reaper whipped his head up at the air's whoosh. His eyes widened as he saw you pitting yourself against the truck to protect the boy. Jungkook yelled after you, anger and worry bubbling from his chest at your stupidity.
Before he could yank you out of the way, a lapse in time occurred. No one felt it, except the grim reaper who's baby-sitting you.
Then the truck swerved to a different direction, screeching tires marked the road as the driver desperately tried to stop. But it was too late.
Shocked gasps rippled through the watching crowd. You turned back at the boy's sudden cry. He was attended to by his mother whose face was etched with burdening worry. You stared back to the man laying on the pavement. His body being crowded by the bystanders as they called for an ambulance.
A strong grip yanked you to the other side. Jungkook was raging. He was lost for words for a second before ending up shouting, "Who the fuck do you think you are?!"
You flinched from the pain of his gripping hold and from fear.
You took a step back.
"I... he's a child. The truck..."
"Why would you interfere?! Is that child's life different from the man's?! Who are you to weigh lives on your hands?! Have you lost your mind?!"
Lips trembling at his outburst, you looked back at the site of the incident. "I didn't know, I didn't mean to..."
I didn't mean to kill him.
You yanked back your arm, covering your ears upon hearing a voice. You stared at Jungkook in horror.
I think I am... I'm going crazy, you thought to yourself.
"He's alive!" Someone from the crowd shouted. The sound of ambulance echoed, approaching in a distance.
Jungkook dragged you to the scene, never letting go of you as he crouched down to hold the man's wrist.
A sigh of relief escaped his lips.
"He'll be fine," he muttered, more like to himself.
"I'm sorry," you told him, guilt laced in your tone.
--
The rest of the day were all spent in silence. Jungkook fetched two more souls and all the while you were just there beside him as he does his work, basically acting like his shadow.
You were walking down the sidewalk of a business district after sending off his last soul for today. He was supposed to send off three if not for your interference. He should've 6 souls left after this day, but you being in his roster and the child's suddenly shifted fate this morning, he's still 8 souls away from finishing his duty.
He tapped off on his tablet with a resigned hum as he found his schedule empty.
Tucking in the device back to his coat, he stared off across the buildings like an old man.
His gaze then fell to yours. Your eyes filled with innocence as you watch him.
He tutted before continuing walking. You sauntered after, head down.
"Ngghhhh..." you looked up at the noise and almost yelped at the gory looking ghost. His clothes were tattered, but he looks way more decent than the one you encountered last night. His eyes were dazed, staring at you.
Jungkook calmly diverted you to the other side, placing himself between you and the ghost, and you both kept on walking. He patiently said, "Don't stop. He wouldn't dare."
You followed his instruction, but your eyes were somehow glued on the man, seeing one of his shoes is missing. Jungkook hissed, "Eyes ahead."
You flinched and diverted your head forward. Only to face a busy lady engrossed on her phone. Jungkook halted pulling you in front of him to get you out of the way.
It's your first time seeing his face up-close in daylight. It was only then when you noticed that he's not wearing his fedora, his hair is clean-cut short, showing his eyes and ears. His hair is still down but gone were the unruly curls you remembered he was sporting.
"Your hair changed," you muttered, gaze grazing the outline of his face.
Jungkook blinked. Once. Twice.
Flick!
"Aw!" you yelped as you rub your forehead. The area he hit felt pulsing.
You glared him down, "What was that for?!"
He leaned back a bit, cocking his head to the side, "Thought of rebooting your brain. Guess my power's limited."
Your jaw went slack at the insult.
He stepped to the side and continued on walking. He then decided to brief you, "As an ordinary ghost, bumping through a human would mess up both of your energy. It's best to avoid them when you can."
Nodding in understanding, you strolled to his side, carefully avoiding any living humans on the sidewalk.
"Where are we heading?" you asked him.
"Nowhere," he replied.
The both of you kept walking for what felt like an hour. When he took a turn at the end of a curb, you couldn't help but complain, "For how long are we walking, can't you just teleport us to that place? I'm tired."
He turned to you, realization dawning on him. He then looked around and found an empty cafĂŠ. Without saying anything, he walked again.
"Aish, that arrogant jerk. @2^;*&! $%#4," you grumbled under your breath.
Jungkook held the door open for you. It's a wonder that he stays chivalrous when he's like the arrogant narcissistic bastards you've met before. One second he's looking after you, the next he acts as if you're a lint he's living with. A dirt he wants to dust off but will continue to live on his life.
He looked at you indifferently as you passed by with a glare.
You took the seat near a window, then the grim reaper followed, taking the seat in front of you.
The cafĂŠ was relatively empty. Its interiors adorned with fake plants and orchids. The walls were painted with wood and brick-like patterns. The table has a centerpiece of tissue holder, plastered with italics, "A true heart remembers".
Your gaze then turned back to Jungkook. You opened your mouth to say something, but his expression cut you off.
There he goes again.
Looking at you as if you're a parasite he's yet to figure out. His condescending stare ticks off your nerves.
You raised a brow, "What?"
He inhaled with a hiss, then tapped his fingers incessantly on the table as he exhaled.
"I haven't met someone as unfortunate as you," he started.
Lifting a hand closed to a fist, he unfolded his pinky finger, "You're below an average college student,"
followed by the next, "You barely have friends,"
and another, "You died on the way to your solitude, by mistake at that,"
Cocking his head to the side, he spoke to himself this time, his gaze averting yours, "Maybe if you're not a sore loser and attended that party, you could have lived, and I wouldn't be in this dire situation."
"I mean..." he trailed off.
"Nothing's so special about you,"
"Why?" he pouted, wondering as he held his hands up. You scowled. "Aside from brave stupidity, there's nothing much."
You shouted at his relentless insults, startling him.
"Will you really keep this up?" you asked, voice laced with sheer annoyance.
With his eyes wide, he reiterated, "I'm helping you here!"
He waggled his hand beside his forehead, saying, "I've been racking up my brain,"
Then he gestured towards you, "While you create trouble one after the other,"
"Maybe you don't have one. Don't try so hard," you retaliated.
Crossing your arms on your chest, you added, "Maybe if you're not a sore loser and did your life differently, you wouldn't be a grim reaper and you wouldn't have to put up with me."
He closed his mouth at that for a moment, before muttering, "I've been at this job ever since. I'm finishing my duty so I could live as a human."
The rush of triumph turned to guilt in a flicker.
"You were not reincarnated?" you curiously asked.
"I..." he trailed off, "I haven't asked. I don't know. Really."
You frowned, "Why would you want to be a human, anyway? You're powerful. You don't get tired, you don't get to work and fit a measly salary in a month, you don't have to study," the list on your mind could actually go on as to why he's better off than you.
"It's lonely to be alone," he simply replied.
"And that's my dream, as a grim reaper. We all want to be human after delivering 700 souls. I haven't questioned that career path ever since."
Your right cheek twitched. He's weird, they're weird. It's weird talking about supernaturals as if it's a corporate world. Jungkook sounded like a corporate slave.
At that, you sighed in realization. Even in the Afterlife, or whatever dimension you're in, it's all the same.
He called your name, reaching for your hands across the table. "That's why we should figure out how to fix your fate line. The spirit guide's helping us, but what if we discover something important to your case? The faster we figure things out together, the better."
Your gaze shifted from his hands to his face.
The surrounding brightened. Birds were chirping and you're hearing the still water's splashing against the bank.
You found Jungkook beaming at you. The first genuine smile you saw from him. The corners of his lips lifted into a curve, a bit of his gums showing, his pearly whites sparkling, his eyes twinkling in joy.
He's wearing a cylindrical hat, its wide brim filtering out the rays of the sun. His hair is in a top-knot as you can see through the partly transparent headpiece.
His dimple accentuated as he spoke, "Marry me,"
When you didn't answer, he mistook the confused look on your face. "The King gave us his blessing. The General, I mean, your father knows. He also agreed," he further explained.
"Jungkook," you breathed out.
Then the brightness faded, bringing you back to the cafĂŠ.
Jungkook was in much astonishment as you. You snatched your hands away, leaving his palms open.
It's of no-use but you truly felt your heart beating fast. You stared back to his eyes and again your heart skipped a beat.
"What was that?" he asked. "Did you see what I saw?"
You nodded. "I, we," you tried to compose a coherent sentence, but failed.
He nodded eagerly, "I need to make a call," he stood up, not waiting for a reply.
Jungkook went outside the cafĂŠ as he dialed on the phone. You met his eyes, and he didn't back down, giving you a steady intent look.
You could only see his mouth moving as he spoke.
Then waited, as he stared at you.
You steered away from his gaze as he snapped out of a trance. After a while, he brought his phone down.
You watch him go back to you, averting your eyes.
He wet his lips before saying, "The spirit guide is on an important matter right now. His secretary insisted on meeting him as planned."
"Have you told her what happened?" you asked.
Jungkook nodded, "I did, but he's with..." he trailed off and pointed his finger up.
Well, you can do nothing for now. You need to wait.
You nodded in acknowledgment.
--
It's nighttime and you were now in his apartment. You were sitting down on the couch as he paced back and forth in his living room, dizzying you in the process.
"Jungkook," you warned for the second time, begging him to stop.
"You asked to marry me, we were husband and wife, in our past life, so grim reapers do have a past," he chanted for the nth time.
"Hah! How dare them lie to us. They just wanted us to do their work without us making a fuss? 700 souls! Do you know how many criminals, psychopaths, nagging wives, and alcoholic husbands I've dealt with? It felt like a thousand! In exchange of what? This apartment and these boring clothes, that's it!"
He ranted.
"I should tell Taehyung and Yoongi about this," he resolved.
You let out an exasperated sigh. "And what? Form a union?" you asked with sarcasm.
He looked at you in horror, "Marriage is only for two people."
"Are you stupid?" he added before fumbling on his phone.
You rolled your eyes. You should've felt offended, but you couldn't even bother to correct him. That's how hopeless you think he is.
And stupid
And narcissistic at that.
"I didn't ask to marry you. You asked to marry me," you nonchalantly repeated for the second time again. However, you didn't even bother if he heard you or not. Jungkook also didn't care. His brows in a furrow as he waited for the other line to be picked up.
It seemed no one answered, but he tried again.
"Taehyung!" he exclaimed.
"Are you done?" he asked, taking a seat beside you.
"Meet me at my place and bring Yoongi hyung. I have big news for you, you wouldn't believe it."
"This is more important! Absolutely! It's a secret and you'll know it first from me."
"Ah, I can't go there. Too many roaming souls. I have..." he paused, looking at you, before continuing, "I have a baggage here."
You gaped at the use of his words.
Jungkook stood up, heading to the window. "No, I can't carry it. Just bring home soju and pears. Ah and if there's some porridge and rice cakes. Okay? Bye!"
He turned around and grinned at you, "I have a treat coming for you!"
Then you thought, he reminded you of Jimin's pet. That white ball of fur who did nothing but eat carrots and cabbage all day long.
"Cats, and dogs, and rabbits are lucky, they have a working pet to buy them food," you mockingly teased Jimin one time who's beaming at his bunny as he watched the cute monster chew.
--
"What?!" Taehyung yelled.
Jungkook smugly nodded. Taehyung stared at you then back to Jungkook. "So, she's your wife?" he asked to confirm.
You winced and cringed and you craved to fold your fingers. Taehyung is worse than Jungkook.
The bunny nodded once and proclaimed to emphasize a point, "She asked me to marry her."
You bit your lower lip in annoyance and threw the rice cake back to the paper plate. The three grim reapers were startled by your action.
Donning a fake smile, you tried your best to be patient and slowly explained, "Jungkook asked to marry me."
"We were in a lake," you started.
Taehyung looked at you attentively as he's sitting across the coffee table, ready to hear the version of your story. You pulled his hands to yours, "Then he held my hands,"
"He smiled at me, like this," you demonstrated. Trying to copy the face you remember with all the twinkling eyes.
"Then said, 'Marry me,'"
Jungkook, who's sat beside you, abruptly slapped your hands away from his friend. "Ouch!" you fussed, glaring at him.
"Why did you have to hold his hands? Saying that! Doing that!" he protested.
In which you argued, "So you'd remember! Your ass is too up high on your head! Why?!"
A giggle escaped Taehyung's lips as he nuzzled near Yoongi. "Look at them, they're so cute together!" he squeaked as he hugged the man. You winced at his remark.
Yoongi hissed in irritation. He pushed Taehyung's head away while the younger tried to brush his head off against him. Yoongi still won.
Out of the three, Yoongi seemed the most normal to you.
"Maybe you have to relive your life together to remember what happened," he muttered.
"But grim reapers are not supposed to remember their past, Jungkook. You have to be prepared."
Then he went on, "I knew grim reapers who crossed the 7 Trials without knowing their past. I also knew some who learned about who they were, but still chose to vanish. I don't know why."
He stared up, looking both of you in the eyes, as he said his final piece, "Remember who you were, but don't get too attached to your past. There's only one way forward."
jjkxreader
Prompt: âYouâre early,â said the grim reaper with a hint of amusement.
Fantasy au, grimreaper!jungkook, reader, romance, slow-burn
Words: 1.5k approx.
Part 2/5
A/N. Omg help me, Iâm doing my best to cut this story short without compromising the love story. This is just supposed to be a drabble in 3 shots but now Iâm currently on the 4th. 7.7k words and counting. I hope to end it soon.
Check this out on my wattpad account! I post one part ahead there.
--
"Good morning, Sir," Jungkook greeted the man clad in white behind the humongous desk.
The man nodded back, "Jungkook, Y/n, have a seat."
You sat down after Jungkook did. If you're being honest nothing felt divine in this place. You wonder if this is heaven or just a penthouse office in Gangnam.
The man breathed in before speaking, "I pulled out Y/n's profile from the database and she's currently under your roster, Jungkook."
You looked at the two-faced grim reaper. His posture went rigid at that, as if a silent understanding of something grave.
"As she's not yet supposed to pass, as per her fate line... I still need to hand this over to the board for deliberation."
Hearing that pissed you off. So you decided for them to hear your piece, "Then what? Clearly, this is a mistake on your part. Do you take human lives this lightly? I've been hearing the same over and over. That this is not supposed to happen. I have family, friends, dreams, all of them gone in a blink. And you're passing me around like a ball. To a person of authority, to this committee, to be deliberated. I didn't know heaven is this bureaucratic ass much like humanity."
Jungkook gasped at your slander of the higher ups, much more on the expletive word you used to describe Heaven.
He stared at you in shock and worry, his eyes begging you to apologize. For him, your words and actions are much as well as his. You're in his roster. Meaning... if he failed to deliver you to the Gate before the 7 Trials, he'll be one soul short. He won't be able to leave this limbo. Forever. He got 10 souls left out of 700 that he's supposed to guide to Afterlife. You must not piss off a spirit guide.
You just raised a brow at Jungkook. His face painted red out of anger.
He suddenly stood up and bowed to the man. "Apologies, Sir. She must still be in shock. I may have failed to brief her enough before this meeting," he explained, still head down.
"I ask for your kind understanding, Sir," he followed.
The man waved his hand and let out a chuckle. "It's fine, it's fine. I've heard worse."
"Please, take your seat, Jungkook."
In which Jungkook followed.
The man turned to you, breathing in, "Y/n. How entitled of you to think that this is Heaven. We're still on Earth, but aren't. We are your messenger before the Afterlife. Heaven's still a long long way."
"I need to know first if your case is entwined with another fate line," he paused, thinking of a way to explain it in simpler terms.
"There's much more behind the dimensions known to humanity. This world, the universe, is a series of strings. Each called a fate line. Relatively, you have diverted from your path. You may choose to continue on the one you're travelling now or go back at the crossroad and live out your life."
"I can still go back?" you confirmed. The man nodded. "It's just like untangling your fate line, bringing it back to its place. It's not easy, but it's doable."
"How? How can I do that?" you eagerly asked. He breathed out and leaned back on his chair.
"Let the water flow its course first. I promise you I'll figure it out. For now, you have to stay under Jungkook's protection. You're living as a spirit for now, but your energy may attract unwanted beings. Humans are safe from them because they're in an unconsumable form."
At this Jungkook nodded. "I can feel it. She's like a meat flavored tofu to the roaming souls."
You winced at his metaphor.
The man clasped his hands as he gave his dismissive remark, "You'll receive a call, Jungkook. Keep Y/n safe until then. Give me 2 Julian weeks at most."
When the grim reaper stood up, you followed suit. Jungkook bowed and thanked the spirit guide. "That's generous of you, Sir. I know how busy you are. Thank you for your time."
When you didn't pay the same respect, Jungkook pulled your hand down, forcing you to bow. "Thank you," you muttered.
As you both turned back to the door, the man watched you intently. Jungkook's hand clasping yours. He let out a sigh as he looked above. "What now?"
The door fell shut as he thought he could only stall time.
--
Jungkook and you whirled out of a cobblestone wall. To him, passing through a wall seemed nothing, but to you, it's a wonder. You stared back where you came from before bumping to his back.
"Ow," you winced, massaging your nose.
He passed you to the other side of his back, his left arm caging you.
"Stay close," you heard him whisper. Out of curiosity, you peeked over his shoulder only to find a hideous ghost. Her hair sticks out in all places, large veins protruding around her eyes. Its color dilated in black at the desire to get to you.
If you still have a beating heart, you might have passed out then and there.
Your grip on Jungkook's coat tightened. He casted out a scythe on his right hand as he pulled a phone from his pocket to call someone.
"Taehyung, I found your assignee. She's here outside Jongno HQ."
After the call, Jungkook stepped back, thinking the roaming soul wouldn't dare to challenge a grim reaper.
But she stepped forward, garbling noise falling out of her mouth. Her grimy hands reaching out. She disappeared in front of him then you felt a pair of cold hands grabbing you from the back of your neck. You yelled in horror as Jungkook spun around whirling out a whip to cuff her hands off you. The being retreated as she let out a blood-curdling scream. You couldn't bring yourself to look. Your head buried in Jungkook's chest as you held on to him for your dear life â ironically.
His other arm wrapped around you. "Don't face her," he muttered as he snapped the whip back to scythe, pushing back the roaming soul back with an invisible force. It sent her flying a few feet back.
Taehyung arrived just in time to rope in his assignee.
"Tsk, tsk, tsk, I told you I'd find you. Nice choice of hunting grounds. In you go," he then pushed the unruly soul to the wall. He quickly sent a salute to Jungkook and followed right after into the headquarters.
Silence passed but your breathing's still ragged. You've been staring at the pavement for you could only remember her face, her hands reaching out to you, when you close your eyes. You could still feel her cold hands at the back of your neck. You flinched when Jungkook tried to soothe you. His hand caressing the spot where you were grabbed awhile ago.
"I'm sorry. Ghosts like her usually wouldn't dare. She seemed out of it," he muttered. You broke down, your knees wobbling, and you cried your heart out.
What did I do wrong to deserve this?
You died out of some mistake, what now of the people and things you left behind? You still have hope to go back if not another starving soul would get to you before the man on the penthouse figure everything out. Your whole life depends on a grim reaper whose job is to take souls.
The irony.
I don't deserve this.
You thought as you shook your head. Jungkook crouched down, concern filled his eyes. He called your name calmly.
Then again, in a whisper.
You looked up to him with your tear-stained face, your eyes and nose red from all the crying. He held your face in his hands as he wiped away your tears, tucking your hair away from your face.
Then he said, "I'll protect you at all costs. My life is in your hands as much as yours is in mine. Trust me," his eyes filled with sincerity.
--
At a beep, the door to his apartment unlocked. He ushered you in. His place is overlooking the Han river. It's minimally designed, wood and stones adorned the space. A sleek leather sofa served as the centerpiece of the living room you just entered.
He then led you to a door, "You can stay here with me. Here's my bedroom," he said as he entered.
"Excuse me?"
"Why?" he asked.
You didn't want to come off as an old-fashioned lady. You slept with your friend, Jimin, with no malice at all. But this... the man before you is a stranger. It feels weird.
"I... I can take the couch," you replied instead.
He nodded nonchalantly. "Okay, if that's what you want."
jjkxreader
Prompt: âYouâre early,â said the grim reaper with a hint of amusement.
Fantasy au, grimreaper!jungkook, reader, romance, slow-burn
Words: 1.5k approx.
Part 1/5
âYou coming tonight?â your friend, Jimin, queried. The airâs getting colder these days. Gone were the colors of autumn that used to cover the path youâre taking and only left with the cold wet pavement.
You shrugged, âI have reports to finish.â
Meaning a netflix series you have to catch up on in the comfort of your couch. You were already deciding if you should order chicken wings or just go with a hot choco. Maybe ramen... you might need to stop by the store for kimchi. Youâve ran out last week.
Jimin whined, âAgain? I thought you just finished the other day? Isnât it finals in two weeks?â he knew youâre not just up for any party. He barely hitched you up on one, but he thought youâd give it a try, considering youâre a semester away from graduation in two weeks time.Â
âThat also. Itâs the finals,â you wittingly replied. Then faked a complaint, âUgh, thereâs too much to catch up on. I want to graduate already.â
You turned to him and gave out a sheepish smile, âHereâs my building. Iâll join you guys next time! Bye!â
It was a good call. It has been raining cats and dogs for hours. The heavy rain droned out the cityâs noise outside your apartment and nothing could be more perfect right now with you and your laptop and a can of beer at hand.Â
The sky lit up with lightning followed by a loud rumble of startling thunder.
In a blink, a shadowed figure appeared beside your bed. You yelped in surprise.
Out of instinct you threw him whatever youâre holding. He didnât flinch and you just watched as the fedora hat fell off his head, revealing a set of unruly curls covering his eyes.
You gasped, hands covering your mouth.
The strangerâs eyes fell shut in annoyance at the sudden beer facial wash.Â
Before he could even speak, you shouted, âWho the fuck are you?!â
âWhat are you doing here?â
âIâm calling 911!â
You questioned and threatened. Words coming out in spitfire.Â
He patiently wiped the stinking liquid off his face then taking a look at his watch while you dial for the police. Only then you realized you lost grip of your phone before even pressing the green button.Â
You tried to pick it up only to stare in horror as your hand went through.Â
You stared back at the strange man while you took everything in. Heâs wearing a black trench coat, black gloves, and black combat boots. A character straight out of steampunk.Â
He let out a sigh and a forced smile.Â
âYouâre early,â said the man with a hint of amusement.Â
âI just received your death notification while fetching a soul. He made a fuss and we had some problems so, apologies for being late.â
Is he crazy? A psychopath? A stalker?
âAh, how rude of me. Jeon Jungkook. Your grim reaper, at your service.â
Youâre beyond shock.Â
You thought you needed to be sent to a mental hospital for even believing whatever the freak is saying right now.Â
He raised his finger and sighed before pulling out a tablet under his coat. Itâs as if he has done this a thousand times as he nonchalantly fed you information you couldnât grasp.
âL/N, Y/N. Your cause of death should be of old age at 93 on August 10, 2090.â
Cocking his head to the side, âI need you to come with me to the headquarters so we can settle this.â
You gaped in utter shock.
âIâm dead?â
Jungkook nodded, âYes. You had a car accident while crossing Adelaide...â he paused and swiped on his gadget, â1 hour and 2 minutes ago.â
You were about to speak when he held up his hand. âI know you have a lot of questions, but we need to get going. My shiftâs ending in 0:00 and I still have one soul left to fetch today.â
In a daze, you stood up and followed him outside your apartment. The elevator dinged as it opened. He flashed his bunny-like smile and gestured towards the lift.Â
âAfter you,â
You walked meekly, unsure whether this is some kind of prank being pulled by Jimin. Is he his friend? Is this your punishment for ditching him nth times in a row?Â
Jungkook stepped into the elevator as you look for cameras. Your run-down apartment has none.Â
Then the lights inside flickered, making you jolt.Â
Ding!
The doors whooshed open only to find yourself in a grand bedroom. Wails of grief from the family rung through your ears as you followed his footsteps, still out of your sanity.
An old manâs body is laying on the bed, with the machine showing a flatline on the bedside. Jungkook wore off his fedora as he greeted the old man whoâs staring at his grieving family.
âSir. Itâs time.â he informed solemnly. The man turned to you his eyes flashed with understanding. He stared up to Jungkook and nodded, accepting his fate.Â
You pursed your lips as you held onto nothing but your hands. As Jungkook opened the bedroom door, you three were led to a neighborhood, outside of a mansion.Â
Thereâs a car waiting. Jungkook held the car door open for him. With a last look at the house, he silently rode the car. The door falling shut after.Â
You were speechless. This...
isnât a prank.
Youâre dead.Â
--
âThat was fast,â Jungkook said, sounding happy. âAh I love fetching old people sometimes. Smooth as butter,â he told himself as he dust off his hands out of habit.
When he turned to you, his nose crinkled in light disgust.Â
âCome with me,â he ordered.
You followed suit and couldnât even utter a word. Barely understanding whatâs happening.Â
A minute of silence passed as you walked down on the neighborhood.Â
âIâm not supposed to be dead, right?â you asked, remembering what he said earlier.
You watched the back of his head bob up and down. âThatâs why Iâm bringing you to the headquarters in Jongno district. Youâre my first odd case,â he explained.
âHow... how would I live? When I donât have my body anymore?â you walked up to him. Stopping him from taking a step further.
âShouldnât we get my body first?â you asked, frantic. He just stared back at you and replied, âAnd what? Hide it in a fridge?â
âI donât even have one in my house,â he followed then continued walking.
You felt utter frustration. Itâs unfair. Extremely unfair. They did some kind of mistake then now you have to suffer. What kind of shit are they on to?
âBut I wasnât supposed to die! As you said!â you yelled at him. Tears welling up in your eyes.Â
He stopped and turned back to you. He looked around and grabbed you by the arm. Jungkook walked towards a door and went in and as if thereâs a sudden shift, quite of a whiplash, you exited to another door leading to another neighborhood.Â
He didnât stop walking and you tried your best to stop him as he just moved forward despite the cobblestone wall ahead of you.Â
In a blink, you were led to a white-washed hall. Endless counters like those in a bank with red digital numbers on top of each one.Â
He didnât let go of you as he tapped on the self-service queue machine.Â
A receipt is printed, a ding heard, then you were being dragged again 10 counters down the hall.Â
His pissed off face were gone in a second as he flashed his friendly smile on the lady behind the desk.Â
âJungkook! Itâs been 3 Julian years!â she greeted enthusiastically.
Then inquired right away, âAnother stubborn soul?âÂ
She turned to you, and ranted on âOh poor young lady, no need to worry. Youâll be reincarnated after passing the 7 trials! 49 days if youâre a noble soul but thatâs 1 in a million traveling the afterlife. Youâll just spend a decade on average! We have a long queue at the gate, you see. You should fall in line now.â
She talked out in one breath then turned to the arrogant grim reaper, giving out a wink as if she just solved a problem for him.
Jungkook shook his head and leaned on the counter. âSheâs not supposed to pass yet. Here,â
He took out his tablet and showed your profile. The lady frowned before another âOh,â in surprise passed her lips.
She then swallowed and feigned a smile. âI have to call a higher up for this. Give me a sec.â
The lady dialed something on the telephone and spoke, âSir, we have a case 3 here.âÂ
âUnderstood.â
She looked up at both of you after the call. The door to your left opened as she let you in.Â
âFollow me,â she said in her top-notch customer service tone.
You were lost after a series of turns and doors and lifts.Â
At another turn around the end of a hallway, you saw an intricate carved-out door at the other end.Â
genre: angst, romance, unconventional relationship
warning: eventual smut
A/N: cross-posted; the story continues at Part 18 in wattpad;
1 2 3 4
Part 4
words: 2,595
Drumming your fingers on the steering wheel, you unconsciously bit your lip as you tried to sort your thoughts out. You even closed your eyes... forehead scrunched in confusion as your failed attempt to detach yourself from all the happenings irritated you more.
So what if he has a woman?
It shouldn't be surprising at all because he's accomplished, has a good family background, and for sure, the looks that everyone would kill for.
Did I just admit that he's attractive?
You scoffed at the thought. Those sleepless nights you spent on analyzing worksheets after worksheets finally altered how your brain functions.
Your phone rang, pulling you out of your reverie. Its noise cutting through the deafening silence in your parked SUV. Then a knock came through the window, startling you. "Fuck!" you said out loud, clutching your chest.
It was your bodyguard. "Saeho!" you shouted at him sounding annoyed but it only muffled through the car door.
Taking a quick glance at your phone, you saw it was the devil you were just thinking about seconds ago. Instead of taking the call, you chose to open the window instead and talk to Saeho.
"What?" you snapped at him, also wondering how he found you so fast.
"You need to head back inside, Ma'am," he said in a stern voice, not liking the disappearing act you pulled.
You sighed and said, "I know. Just give me a break."
He watched you lean your head back on the headrest as you try to recollect yourself. The ringing of the phone just ended when it rang again with the same caller id. With a drag, you handed out the device to Saeho, but he just looked at it.
With another nudge of the phone in the air, he took it slowly from your hand.
"Sir," he answered as he put it by his ear.
There was a pause before Taehyung spoke up.
"Where is she?" he asked, his voice laced with darkness that even made a big man like Saeho gulp.
"She's safe, sir. We're in the basement parking. She's inside her car. She gave me her phone for me to answer," he explained.
"Get her back here. Now."
Then you heard the line cut off.
Saeho handed back the phone to you and pleaded for you to follow his boss' order. "Ma'am, this way, please," his voice having a more hint of emotion now as he snuck in his arm through the window to unlock your door.
With a huff, you alighted from the vehicle and passed him your purse.
Saeho followed your steps, taking an enough distance from you like he always does. You suddenly stopped from your tracks and faced him again.
"I can't really go back there this soon. I'm still annoyed," you wondered out loud, leaving the man in conflict. It really is indeed difficult to serve two masters at once. He didn't know what happened when he saw you rushing down the hall and it was not his place to ask why. But he was smart enough to deduce the reason behind your act.
He might not show it but he feels bad for you, but at the same time, he wants to keep his job. Taehyung pays him a handsome amount which sustains the needs of his wife and ailing child.
"We're in no hurry but we have to keep moving, Ma'am," he replied in compromise.
You turned around an walked towards the entrance at a much slower pace. He opened the door as you headed inside the elevator lobby and waited for a lift.
#
"She's tightly guarded, Sir. We can't find a window to execute the plan," the man spoke through the phone.
The news earned a sigh from the other line.
"Keep trying. It'll be more difficult to get to her once the ceremony's all over."
"Copy, sir," then the hired man ended the call.
Regardless, the receiver prepared himself for the worst, and that is having to do everything by himself.
"Useless bastards," he muttered under his breath.
It was two hours before midnight and they only had little time left to act on the situation. Once they miss this window of opportunity, they'd have to take matters to their own hands and it won't be a pretty sight.
There were still no progress from the team he sent. It was difficult to bypass the heiress' security. Although they blend well in the crowd, his men were trained enough to recognize the security team's tactic.
Namjoon wasn't the type to get his hands dirty. No matter what job that is.
J, negative
He then replied without hesitation,
Plan B
He threw the phone on the table with a thud after sending the text message.
#
When Jungkook received the order, he immediately left the hotel suite to pursue his target.
#
Saeho approached Taehyung cautiously and said, "Number unidentified, but I sent someone to follow through and extract information."
Taehyung's jaw tensed in response. "Why not grab one of them now?"
"We can't do that without grabbing much attention. Unless, that's fine with you, sir," Saeho replied. Taehyung's eyes were deeply set on you as you talk with your colleagues. He roamed his stare on their faces then to the people within your perimeter, then back to you. His eyes met yours.
Without breaking away from your gaze, he uttered, "I'll bring her back to her room. Keep me updated."
"Yes, sir."
Saeho then gave way to Taehyung as he strode the distance between you. From his cold demeanor, he flashed a warm smile to your colleagues, making them flustered.
You felt his hand slid around your waist. His hold was gentle yet firm.
"S-sir!" one of your colleagues managed to utter a greeting. Both men and women looked at your fiancĂŠ with admiration.
You casually introduced him to them. "This is Minho, Song, and Hyeji. My team in one of my projects. And you already know Jae."
Without further ado, Taehyung said, "Would you mind me taking my wife back? We need to head back early for tomorrow's wedding."
This made you take a step back but with his kind of hold, you were only able to put an unnoticeable distance from him. "Already?" you voiced out in protest.
"Sure!"
"Of course," your team replied in unison.
"You need to have a proper rest," Taehyung told you before flashing his swooning smile back to your colleagues.
"Thank you, excuse us."
You were still confused as he led you out of the banquet hall. You were stuck to his side until you could finally free yourself from his grip once you stepped in the lift.
"What's happening? Isn't it rude to just leave our own party? Like that?"
He's getting on your nerves and your annoyance is also starting to get the best of him. He thought the attitude was because he was 10 minutes late to your dinner.
Taehyung let out a sigh and faced you after pressing the floor button for your suite. "Charles will handle it. I just want you to get your rest."
Though that was just his excuse.
You crossed your arms in front of your chest, "If you were paying attention, I was still in the middle of a conversation with my team when you decided to have things your way. I didn't like that."
He tried his best to hide his sarcastic smile by looking down but you caught on. Your brow twitched in annoyance. His actions and the way he treats you makes you feel disrespected. No matter how much you want to cut ties with him, you need to know the tricks hidden up his sleeve.
Why would the news of merger suddenly brought harm to your family's life
Why the Kims, your supposed protector, are sweeping important facts under the rug
Why does your father trust them so much
Questions that you're sure would pile up as you try to uncover the truth. Despite that, you're determined to protect what's yours even though that means selling your soul to the devil.
You stared deep into his eyes.
"Fine. See you tomorrow at our wedding," you let out in a dismissive tone.
He sighed inwardly in relief as he watched the door slam right in front of him.
The room was dark as you entered. With a sigh, you blindly took off your accessories starting with the earrings.
You're getting married tomorrow and it's really happening. To an estranged childhood friend, a man you barely know, a lover of someone else. Red flags that were enough to stop someone from proceeding with the foolish ploy.
But this is for your family's sake.
The Kims are a possible threat you had to understand first.
On a flick of a light switch, you were startled to see a man standing in the middle of your suite. You almost squealed in shock but it got cut off when he approached you in a stride, stifling your voice.
Fear rose up in your chest and your imagination had gone haywire with the thought of why would be someone in here.
"Hush, I'm not here to harm you," he looked at you intently and you slowly start to associate a name on the man's face. It should have comforted you but it only added to your growing fear and confusion.
Jungkook?
He saw the recognition that flashed your eyes, then he continued in a much lower and hushed voice. "Promise me you won't scream, I just need to talk."
Your brows furrowed. What is Taehyung's friend doing in my room, surprising me like a murderer, in the middle of the night?
Just to know what the fuck is going on you nodded your head thrice, still breathing heavily, with your pulse racing.
Once his grip loosened, you immediately took a step back, holding your purse in front of you as if that was enough for a weapon to defend yourself.
"What are you do--" your loud and scandalous voice made him cover your mouth again. You didn't see how but he's now on your back, your body tightly pressed to his.
"Not so loud," his voice laced with irritation. It wanna made you scoff, you should be the one irritated in this situation, not him.
"Taehyung's not who you think he is," he murmured, hoping that will stop you from fighting him off.
You did your best to calm down to show him that you're ready to listen. Not that you don't know what he's talking about. You know who the true Taehyung is.
Jungkook loosened his hands on you once he thought he piqued your curiosity.
You turned to him, a little bit surprised at the very close distance he had put in between.
You looked up a bit to meet his eyes.
"I know who Taehyung is,"
You told him, full with pride.
He was about to speak when you cut him off, "So if you're here to warn me about his lover, you can leave. I've already decided," you told him and he seemed surprise at the news. It looked like that was not the thing he was pertaining about but you could care less.
This marriage is more than you and your feelings.
If being close to the threat will help save your family, then be it. If they're not and they're really trying to help, then better.
Jungkook raised his eyebrows in surprise, "You're truly whipped," he said in disbelief. Well that was not new to him. He knew Taehyung during his teenage years. He knew how he was or is with the ladies.
"I'm not. I-" you were about to spill some sensitive information but you luckily caught yourself.
No one else is supposed to know about this except you and your private investigator, Hoseok.
"Well that sucks but that was not just it, Princess," he informed, the title he used sounded like a mock.
"His family will use yours to get what they want. This might bring harm not only to your family, but to everyone."
#
Tilting your head to the side, "then this will be just another billion dollar venture for them," you stated after Jungkook told you what he could let you know... for now. He has yet to see for himself and the organization which side you're on. It was a huge gamble for them to involve you in this. If it were up to him, he would rather not involve a socialite like you. The type that Taehyung lures in and break. But to Namjoon, you were different.
He silently strode to the door and looked into the peephole to see if there are guards. "How did you get in here anyway?" you asked him, as you were sidetracked from his movement.
"The balcony," he stated as he walked back. "They'll eventually monopolize the IT industry. All the servers, engines, systems, running in this country will be under their control. Just masked in different names."
"We traced that 65% of the sector belonged to their family already. Indirectly,"
"and if this will go out of hand, there will be irreversible repercussions." he finished as he stood before you, meeting your gaze intently.
You walked around the living area of the hotel suite, settling on the couch. "I didn't know they had that slice too," you blurted out as you went in deep thought. The Kims are involved in a lot of ventures. May it be in security services and systems, management consultancy, logistics, and others. But so is your family. Well your mother's side to be specific. With it being more prominent in hospitality and airline industry.
You traced back your gaze to the intruder.
"Regardless, that's none of my business, Jungkook. The world is what it is." you told him.
And he knew.
A privileged woman like you won't understand it. Because the system fits well for you that you became a part of it.
His jaw almost twitched in disgust, but he managed to mask it off with a smirk. "Your family will be their puppet. You will bear the damages once things fall out of place,"
"Then I'll make sure it won't," you replied, looking at him straight in the eyes.
Taking a deep breath, you suggested, "I could pretend this didn't happen. I'll let you slip back where you came from without sending a distress call to my security next door." then you took out a black device out of your purse, lifting off its switch. Then you placed your thumb on top of it, ready to press it in any second.
He let out a chuckle. "You'll be lying dead on the floor before they arrive here, don't underestimate me."
You let out a sweet smile and shook your head. "I'm not. I know you're very capable of that seeing how you managed to get here," then you unceremoniously pressed the device which made made him jump to his feet and briskly left, leaving the glass door open. All the while making sure that you know how pissed he is and he's not yet done with you. If eyes could kill.
Saeho barged in right after a beep. "Ma'am," he let out. When you seemed fine, his eyes scanned the room immediately, looking for any threats.
With your gaze on the glass door, he jogged onto it seeing that it was ajar.
You stood up and headed into the bedroom. "Please close it. It's getting cold," you calmly ordered as you closed the bedroom door shut.
summary⢠whatâs a girl to do when her sweet, innocent baby lab partner isnât quite so sweet and innocent? well, heâs a grown-ass man, and youâre about to learn that the hard way.
pairing⢠jungkook/reader
word count⢠12.9k â ď¸
rating⢠18+
genre⢠smut | humor | college!au | fuckboi!au | fratboy!au
warningsâ˘Â sexual content, exhibitionism, unprotected sex, oral (male receiving), masturbation, dirty talk, everybody is still pissed tf off and consequently has an attitude, but then also everyone is soft đĽş, drinking/partying, taehyung gets done dirty and also canât tell his disney princesses apart, seokjin mulls over his many career options
a/nâ˘Â THE END IS FINALLY HERE đđđđ iâm so relieved, but also so, so sad. thank you to everyone who joined me on this long, goofy journey and encouraged me to keep going with all of your wonderful messages and feedback, and thank you to everyone who took the time to welcome my baby into their lives and love her as much as i do! i truly appreciate every single one of you beyond words and i only hope you feel your time spent with me was time well spent. thank you, thank you, thank you đđđđđđđđ
You tried to snuck away from your marriage by making a scandal on your own: have you photographed with someone outside a bar that will cause enough humiliation for your parents. Not knowing the man you chose for your ploy was your fiancĂŠ himself. You thought youâve seen enough of the real world, but being with Taehyung only unraveled so much more.
Genre: angst, romance, unconventional relationshipÂ
Warning: eventual smut
A/N: cross-posted from wattpad; updates are uploaded in wattpad first
title: after midnight 02Â - dawn
pairing: jeon jungkook x reader
genre: angst, smut, fluff, fwb!au, fuckboy!jk, doctor!reader
word count: 6.0k
warnings: unprotected explicit smut
a/n: uh,,,, hi,,, hopefully this is just as good as the first one whoops uhÂ
Thereâs a signature scent that lingers over the surface of everyoneâs skin; aroma never replicating another personâs, changing with each encounter and always unfamiliar. Jungkook is no exception, only that something about his specific musk is addicting, practically has your head woozy and feet hovering over the ground, floating in his direction at every reunion.Â
Even as a doctor you canât self diagnose what youâre feeling.
genre: angst, romance, unconventional relationship
warning: eventual smut
A/N: cross-posted from wattpad; updates are uploaded there first
1 2Â 3 4
Part 3 teaser:Â Looking around, Taehyung was nowhere to be seen. Although this was just a casual dinner, he could at least have the courtesy to come with you in a family gathering.
Part 3Â
words: 3.9k
"I can't believe you ditched me for two weeks," Sunmi complained as she finished the coffee in her cup.
She went on a surprise visit in your office as you were preparing to get off your duty.
To distract her from her rampage, you told how your mom has been doing after the accident. Then you went on how your wedding with Taehyung will push through regardless. However, you didn't tell her the full story on how that one unfolded. It was a long story to tell and you don't have time for it.
You let out a tired sigh. "I'm caught up with a lot of stuff, Sunmi," you simply uttered.
She then replied, "A text won't hurt. But I get it, fine. You're always this cold anyway," she said as she rolled her eyes.
Glancing at your watch, it's already 7 pm. "Look, I have to visit my mom before going home," you told her, sending a signal that you really have now to go.
Your mother hasn't woken up yet but the doctor said that her reflexes are getting better. The other day, when her finger moved, relief washed through you. It's a little progress but it meant a lot. It gave you hope.
"And when are we going out again?" Sunmi asked, with a glint of hope in her eyes. You cleared your throat as you contemplated whether you should join her in one of her parties or not. The last time, she got you in deep trouble.
Sunmi wore her puppy eyes as she stalked towards you, "Please? I'm stressed because of my boss. I want to go out again with you!"
"Sunmi, I can't party all the time," you retorted.
"You speak as if you go to parties with me so often! It was just that night when I managed to get you that drunk," she complained. You laughed at her reasoning.
She then pouted, "You're a fun drunk... or I think you're really fun if you just let loose without alcohol."
"Being drunk is not fun. I'll think about it. If I'm free, I'll go with you," you resigned just to get her off your back.
You both headed out of your office then your bodyguard muttered something silently as he held his earpiece. Sunmi was taken aback by his presence.
"You have a bodyguard now?" she asked as you both headed towards the lift. You were used to having Saeho follow you around and learned to ignore him. Now that Sunmi pointed it out, you became conscious as you conversed with your friend.
Nodding back at her, you said, "For safety, according to Taehyung."
She chuckled back at that, "More like for him to keep track of you."
"I have to meet him someday, you know," she added, "If he looks as bad as you were saying, I could do something about it."
You bit your lip at her rambling.
She turned to you excitedly, "Oh, I have this model friend of mine, I can hook you up with him,"
"Sunmi..." you uttered, giving her a warning to shut up.
She raised her brow, "What? I can't let you get hooked by some rich SOB. I'll disown you."
"Or is he a DOM?" she asked boldly as she took your left hand near her face, observing the ring again.
Her question made you scrunch your forehead in confusion.
"Dom?" you asked.
She nodded back as she lets go of your hand, "Dom. Dirty old man."
The elevator doors opened at the lobby floor. You slowly walked out with her by your side and with your security behind you.
"A lot of them are driving in a fancy sports car. He exactly fits the description you gave me. Plus that kind of ring?" she took a deep breath and shivered.
At that, you purse your lips. You're sure the man behind you heard that, you just hope that this won't get to Taehyung's knowledge.
"I didn't tell you he's old. We're of the same age," you defended, trying to save yourself.
"Oh,"
"Are you coming with me? I can drop you off somewhere," you offered as you come out of the revolving door.
"Nah, I have my car down the street. I'll see you soon, okay?" she said, with threat in her eyes.
Just in time, a familiar black Benz rolled off in front of you.
Shortly after, Taehyung emerged from the driver's side. Surprise was evident in your eyes as you watched him walk his way towards you. He was casually dressed in a dark green sweater and brown trousers.
"Too bad, you're taken huh?" Sunmi whispered beside you. She was also ogling at him. For some reason, a blush crept up in your cheeks.
You were flustered as to how to handle the situation at hand, but firstly, you wonder what he's doing here.
"Let's go?" he casually asked as he stopped in front of you.
Sunmi is now watching you two with disbelief in her eyes. She looked at you then at Taehyung's hand which he nonchalantly reached out to yours, taking your hand in his. Sunmi noticed the rings you both were sporting.
You gulped as you watched her dumbfounded reaction.
"You liar," she muttered accusingly.
Taehyung turned his head to your friend, "Pardon?" he said, his voice sounded distant.
Before the situation gets out of hand, you decide to come clean. "Sunmi, this is Taehyung. Taehyung, she's my friend, Sunmi."
He looked like he didn't care, so you proceeded, "I have to go now, Sunmi."
She nodded back but it looked like she's out of it.
Taehyung then ushered you to the passenger side.
Once you were both inside the car, he shifted gear after glancing at the rearview mirror. You saw Saeho getting in your SUV as they pulled in a convoy.
#
"I'm meeting your father in the hospital," Taehyung simply told you while navigating through the bustling city.
"And I have to talk to you about the wedding,"
What? Is he backing out for real?
Your pride was crushed again at the thought of him abhorring being with you.
"My secretary booked a venue already. We can accommodate up to a hundred guests," you told him.
His forehead scrunched at the information, "Make it 300."
You were relieved at what he said but more so it made you scoff. You already think that a hundred was too much but given that you also have to invite some of your dad's colleagues, you and Jae settled on a hundred guests.
Also, you don't want a grand wedding that will be difficult to top off once you have your real one.
"300 is too much," you muttered, holding your tongue in your cheek.
"Aren't we having it in Waldorf? Your hotel? We can hold more guests if that's the case."
"Send me your list and I'll take a look at it," he added.
He made it clear that he's not into details. Why is he making a fuss about it now? But knowing the reason behind that was beyond you.
At the stoplight, he fumbled with the dashboard and browsed through his contacts. He stopped at one particular name and pressed call.
The person picked up after a few rings.
"Mr. Kim!" a voice of a man which sounded too girly for a baritone one was heard from the other line.
Taehyung smiled and greeted, "Charles, I have something for you."
"What is it? A yacht party? or do you want it on a ferry like the last one? I heard you're getting married!" the man named Charles rambled on the phone, his voice sounded more excited than before.
You watched Taehyung in disbelief.
"It might be too late to inform the guests about that. We're having it at Waldorf," he replied.
"Oh," Charles' voice sounded a bit disappointed, but he quickly recovered.
"In Incheon! That will be fine. What's your target date?"
"The soonest,"
Charles didn't even falter as he quickly asked, "Number of guests?"
"Three hundred?"
"A grand one! Make it a thousand!" your jaw dropped at where this conversation is going. You glared at Taehyung beside you who were having too much fun.
The traffic moved forward and you huffed in your seat.
"Make this event worthwhile for your portfolio. My wife is pretty chill with the details," you heard him say, his tone sounding mockful at the last sentence.
"Oh, thank you! Let me work my magic!"
"Alright, I'll give your number to her secretary. He's handling these kinds of things for her."
"Sure sure! Do that! Best wishes on your marriage!"
When the call ended, you threw him an irritated glance. "We already arranged things. Jae will be very disappointed," you glumly told him. He just threw your secretary's hardwork out of the window!
"I'm just making sure," he shrugged. There are times when Taehyung is bearable but this bossy and arrogant side of him ticks you off in all places.
"Then you should have volunteered earlier so I didn't have to go through all that fuss!"
"Your secretary is doing it all for you anyway and how sure are you that he can pull this thing off?"
"He's working with a wedding planner,"
"Charles is much more experienced. He hosts my mom's parties."
He then threw you a quick glance before letting out a chuckle. "You're so cute when you're mad," he uttered before biting his lower lip.
The remark only irritated you more. You badly want to strangle him using his seatbelt. If it were not for your dear life. It was a bad call. You cannot live with this man with this kind of attitude.
Taehyung rubbed you off the wrong way that night. You were pissed off that you ended up giving him a silent treatment. After arriving in your mom's suite, he and your dad went outside for a talk. For what is that all about, you didn't care.
"Mom..." you blurted out with longing in your voice. You blinked rapidly to stop your tears from falling. She looked frail lying on the hospital bed. Your mother was always radiant and looked best. Seeing her getting thinner as time goes by breaks your heart.
"Everything's fine. I'm handling things well with the board," you ran your hand on her head, gently giving her comforting pats. At least, the machines attached to her lessened.
"But you should wake up soon, okay?"
After some time, the two gentlemen walked back into the room. You stood up to face your father. He's been so busy that you barely had time to see each other despite him living in the same house.
"We can go home together if you'd like," you offered him.
He shook his head in response, "I still have a lot of paperwork to do."
This one made you frown, "Dad, please don't neglect your health," you told him, irritation laced in your voice. He might have been overwhelmed now that your mother is not there to help him. On your end, you're doing everything you can to keep your company afloat.
"We don't have enough time before the campaign starts. I'm making sure everything is well-prepared,"
You let out a sigh, "Alright. If I can do anything for you, let me know."
He let out a tired smile as he told you, "You're doing more than enough, Y/n."
Then your dad turned to Taehyung and said, "Drive her home, please. It will make me more at ease."
Taehyung nodded gently but you protested, "Dad, I have Saeho so you don't have to worry."
"It's fine. We'll get going now, sir," Taehyung retaliated, you sent him a glare but he just ignored it. Fine, he's the one getting tired anyway.
You then turned to your mother and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead, "I love you, mom. I'll see you tomorrow," you whispered.
The whole car ride was silent. You chose to sleep on the way home instead of keeping him company. When the car turned into a halt, you woke up just in time to see that you'd arrived. The porch is dimly lit and the mansion looked sad.
Without a word, you simply unbuckled your seatbelt, grabbed your bag, then climbed out of the car. Taehyung climbed out too as your door slam shut.
"Y/n," the stern in his voice made you look back at him. He quickly sauntered to your side.
With furrowed brows he asked, "What's wrong with you?"
You purse your lips as you answered, "Nothing."
He clicked his tongue before answering, "You're acting like a bitch."
Your mouth fell agape at his statement. It painted your face red and you're now fuming mad at him. You pushed his shoulder back harshly but he stood in place. "Asshole. Get lost," you told him, irritation filled your tone.
He quickly grabbed your wrist before you could walk away, sending you stumbling into his chest.
"I won't tolerate this kind of behavior so you tell me what's wrong," his words dripped off like acid, almost scaring you.
You gulped then averted your eyes from his piercing gaze.
He tilted his head to the side, chasing your eyes but you couldn't bear to look at him.
He threw your secretary's hardwork off the window. That means he also threw your work away. Every output that Jae and the wedding planner has, it went through your approval. You would extend outside working hours choosing the catering, flowers, theme colors. You're also about to meet your designer for your wedding gown. Almost everything is settled according to your taste and Jae helped out in filtering down the list you can choose from.
But you would burrow your own hole first before Taehyung would know that you became pretty much hands-on in this affair.
You're not supposed to care, but at the end of the day, it's still your wedding.
"Y/n," he called out for the second time, his voice much more irritated than before.
You let out a resigned sigh, "I'm just tired," you told him dismissively.
You pulled your hand back out of his grip but Taehyung won't let go.
"Tae," you whined.
Your eyes grew a fraction when his eyes darkened in response. You didn't mean to call him that. You wet your lips before uttering, "It's getting late, you should go ahead."
But he didn't understand what you said. His whole attention was focused on your inviting lips, he hated to admit it but he still thought of that night he had with you, under his sheets.
Taehyung held your chin in between his forefinger and thumb, tilting your head up a bit. Before you could even react, he placed a chaste kiss on your lips.
Your eyes widened out of surprise, but you were still deep rooted to the ground.
He bit his lip as he watched for your reaction. "I'm sorry, I just missed you," he muttered. "Are we okay now?" he asked after. Taehyung then casually placed both his hands on your sides.
"I don't like that you're interfering with the preparations," you started,
"You should have taken the task before I handed it to Jae so he doesn't have to work extra for it."
Taehyung nodded in understanding.
"And he knows what I like, that's why I trusted him with that," you added.
Irritation flashed in his eyes but it was gone before you knew it. He let out a sigh, "Just have him work with Charles instead. Charles will make it better."
You purse your lips while contemplating on the compromise he offered.
"I don't want a grand wedding. Make sure he doesn't overstep, my preference will be followed according to what Jae picks. "
There was hesitance in his eyes before replying, "Your taste. Noted. But having it grand..."
"Taehyung," you called sternly. You cannot believe you're arguing with this kind of stuff with him. "Grand is not my taste," you retaliated.
He threw a smirk at your statement, "Coming from you, princess," he said looking at you from head to toe. He smiled at his own realization so he nodded, "Okay. I'll tell Charles about it."
You furrowed your brows at him, adjusting your gaze on his face as he seemed closer, "And don't call me princess. I hate it."
His smile grew which confused you. Is there something funny at what I said?
"I'm serious."
Taehyung nodded as he closed his eyes and let out a shuddered breath. You failed to notice that throughout the argument, he managed to pull you close to him. His hands were now encircling your waist.
Placing your hands on his chest, you took a step back, pushing him away.
"I'll go now," you finally said before turning your back on him and climbing up the porch.
#
After a shower, you dialed up Hoseok, your private investigator.
"Any leads?" you asked the man on the other side of the line. He made you use another phone just to make sure no one will rat you out when you're investigating everything on your own.
"The man knew the route he's taking. He managed to hide his face from the cctv cameras until he disappeared in the crowd in Myeongdong," he reported. It made you feel frustrated and cornered.
"So what now?"
"On the other hand, I found something interesting, Ms. Y/n."
"The cops are playing russian roulette with your father's potential opponents," he started.
Your brows furrowed at the stupidity of their action, "That will be a long list and how will they know?"
"I'm curious myself, here's more,"
"The Kims are doing things on their own. I just can't identify the path they're taking but from what I gathered they're looking at a different angle in this case. I have a hunch they're misleading the police with information while they figure things out."
That's impossible, you thought to yourself. With an inhale, you told Hoseok, "That's too far off, don't you think? They're the closest family friend we have, I doubt they'll do that."
"I'm not saying they're doing a bad thing, Ms. Y/n. It could be that or there's a beneficial reason for your end for them to mislead the police. I don't know if your dad knows about this. If he knows then your family is safe, if he doesn't..."
Then the worst thing happened. The situation piqued your curiosity, but you couldn't afford to talk to your father yet. There's a ceasefire, but you're not yet at ease to have a serious talk with him regarding the Kims.
"With that, I'm asking for your cooperation. You have to find it out yourself, Ms. Y/n. While I'll try to infiltrate the Kims to get my hands on this one. But that won't be easy,"
Hoseok's right. They own the most trusted security system company in Korea, how long will that take for Hoseok?
"I'm getting married soon, Hoseok, can you at least dig something out before that?"
The man laughed at the question. "I hate to admit this, but your marriage may help you infiltrate to get some info. You know how the Kims are," he replied, dropping the formalities.
You don't like the unspoken idea of Hoseok. Getting in too deep might-- you held on that thought and quickly erased it off your head. You'll just make sure everything falls into its rightful place.
#
The wedding was a grand affair. You hated it. You sent death glares to your secretary when you saw the filled banquet hall. The look in your eyes made Jae pull you aside and explain. According to him, this was the best he could do, he already made a lot of compromise with Charles. Your initially approved designs, everything, went through in exchange of making it a three-day event.
It kicked off with a laid-back welcome party on a Friday night.
"I thought it's just a family dinner," you muttered under your breath.
Jae pursed his lips. Suddenly nervous at the hysteric in your voice trying to lash out.
"Well, the country is a family to your father," he whispered in an attempt to reason his way out.
"You could have at least told me. You know I hate being surprised like this. I'm..." the sentence trailed off with a sigh from your mouth.
"I know, but I couldn't bother you with things like this. You were occupied enough with the board. Just pull yourself together for the night. Let tomorrow deal with itself,"
He's right. You thought to yourself. Looking around, Taehyung was nowhere to be seen. Although this was just a casual dinner, he could have the courtesy to at least make an effort to come with you in a family gathering.
You walked to your father with all of the composure you've gathered. Seeing him socialize nonchalantly with his colleagues, you tried gaining his attention by intently looking at him. You sent him a grim smile when he caught you walking up to their group.
"Y/n!"
A three-day wedding. Tonight is just a welcome party. Tomorrow will be the main event with all the ceremony and two receptions. Then a farewell brunch on the third to top off your misery.
"Dad," you greeted once reaching the group. As if on cue, you leaned towards him to kiss him on the cheek. Then turned to his colleagues afterwards for a curt bow.
The gentlemen said their congratulations followed by an inquiry where your fiance at. In which you smoothly replied, "He'd be here soon, I just went ahead to talk to my father. So, if you'll excuse us,"
The old man followed your steps after giving his colleagues a glance.
"What's the matter?" he asked once out of their earshot.
He didn't miss the hesitation that flashed in your eyes as you tried to come up with an excuse. You just used him to save yourself earlier. His lips pursed into a grim line.
Putting a hand on your arm, he told you, "Why don't you go up your room first and call him? His parents are somewhere in this crowd already. I was with them earlier."
You then nodded in resignation. Then silently waded your way out of the crowd, ignoring the casual glances being thrown at you.
Once out of the banquet hall, you took a right turn without much paying attention. To your surprise, you saw Taehyung talking to a woman. This made you step back and hide yourself against the wall, clutching your purse close to your chest.
Then a thought came to mind, why am I hiding?
"I'd call you. Don't show up like this," your fiance uttered in a low voice you've never heard before.
That's why. Because they looked like star-crossed lovers hiding from the villains. And you were one of them. In their story, you are. Even though it was just a blink, their closeness made you tread back.
The situation made you smirk.
The raging thoughts disabled you from hearing what his lover was saying but you caught on, "- are you kidding me?" the lady asked in a sarcastic voice.
"I have a lot of things on my plate right now, Lana. Please..."
Their exchange made you sick. It felt like you shouldn't be there right now, so you turned away.
But you didn't want to go back to the party. Heck, you don't even like the situation you're in right now.
With the fire exit to the opposite end of the hall, you harshly pushed on the door and went down the stairs. Until you found yourself in the basement parking.
