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Love, Maybe

Pairing: Bff's younger brother!Yechan x f!reader

Genre: unapologetic crush, fluff, crack, smut MDNI

Synopsis: The summer vacation reaveals what your one sided crush on your best friends younger brother will truly lead to.

Word Count: 19.5k

Warnings: kinda a sext (like it's not really but like yeah), jealousy, denial is a river in Egypt, so much tension

A/N: I've been contemplating posting this for a few months. Then I remembered, this is my blog. Okay enjoy 😉 Feedback is very much welcome 🫶🏽 Smut tags under the cut

SMUT Tags: soft dom!yechan; switch!reader, heated make outS, nipple play, touching over the clothes, fingering, protected sexual intercourse, multiple orgasms, alluded oral, almost kitchen stuff. Petnames; 'baby'

The sun blazed down as you finally stepped into the beach house, a slight excitement bubbling in your chest as you set your suitcase down. It was summer, and with that came the chance to spend more time with Keeho, but he—Yechan—was the real problem. Your crush on him was practically an open secret, especially to Keeho, who always made sure to tease you about it.

You knew it was a little ridiculous to have such a huge crush on your best friend’s younger brother, but you couldn’t help it. Yechan’s sharp jawline, tousled hair, and that slightly indifferent attitude drove you wild. You might act coy and shy in front of Keeho, but when it was just you and Yechan, you were more... forward.

Keeho was lounging on the couch, scrolling through his phone as you entered, already waiting for the usual teasing. “Glad you could finally join us. It’s gonna be a long week with Yechan here,” he said with a smirk, not even looking up from his phone. “She’s totally obsessed with you, by the way.”

You turned to face him, throwing an exaggerated glare. “Shut up. I’m not obsessed.”

Keeho let out a low chuckle. “Sure, sure. But seriously, Yechan’s gonna be stuck with you all week. Good luck with that, man.”

You couldn’t stop yourself from rolling your eyes as you glanced toward Yechan, who had entered the room quietly, his gaze briefly meeting yours. His expression was unreadable, but there was that flicker again, that subtle awareness of the way you looked at him.

“Hey, finally made it,” Yechan said casually, and you couldn’t help the way your heart skipped at the sound of his voice. He was effortlessly cool, as always, giving nothing away.

You stepped closer, doing your best to seem casual, even though your mind was racing. “Yeah, Keeho wasn’t kidding about the traffic,” you said, your tone a little more teasing than usual. You glanced up at him, not bothering to hide the way you let your gaze linger on his lips before meeting his eyes. “Hope you’re ready to spend the week with me.”

Yechan blinked, a small, almost imperceptible smile curving his lips. He gave you a slight nod, clearly playing it cool but not completely indifferent. “I think I’ll manage,” he replied with a tone that felt more like a challenge than reassurance.

You leaned against the doorway, your eyes trailing over him as you decided to take a risk. “You sure? I’m very good at making things... interesting.”

Yechan’s eyes shifted for just a second, and his lips twitched again—was that a smile? He cleared his throat, a little awkward now, but still trying to keep his cool. “I guess we’ll see, won’t we?”

Keeho, who had been watching the exchange, raised an eyebrow. “You two are gonna be a problem,” he muttered under his breath, but it didn’t seem like he was really worried.

As you turned away, Yechan’s gaze stayed on you for just a fraction longer than normal. You were almost certain you saw something in his eyes—something more than just the usual disinterest.

You weren’t delusional. You knew he noticed you, and whether he admitted it or not, the tension between you both was real. The real question was: how long could you keep it from becoming something more?

The first few days at the beach house passed in a blur of lazy afternoons and playful teasing. Keeho made sure to poke fun at you every chance he got, especially when it came to your unabashed crush on his younger brother. But when it was just you and Yechan, things took on a different energy. The playful exchanges got a little bolder, a little more intimate, and that made the whole summer feel like it was about to tip into something more.

On the fourth day, Keeho had disappeared with a group of friends, leaving you and Yechan alone at the house. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, you both found yourselves out on the deck, the ocean stretching out endlessly before you. The evening air was cool, and the sound of the waves crashing was the perfect background to the charged silence between you and Yechan.

You glanced over at him as he leaned against the railing, arms crossed casually. He had a way of making everything look effortless, like even standing still was somehow cool. You were both quiet for a moment, but you couldn’t help the words that slipped out of your mouth.

“So, how does it feel to know your brother has a crazy, obsessed best friend who can’t stop thinking about you?” you teased, leaning back in your chair and keeping your tone light, even though your heart was racing.

Yechan didn’t flinch or seem surprised. Instead, he turned to you with that same cool expression, but his gaze was soft, more attentive than before. “You really can’t stop talking about it, can you?”

You shrugged nonchalantly, even though you knew the answer was obvious. “What can I say? You’re hard to ignore.” You bit your lip playfully, your eyes meeting his.

He stayed silent for a beat, and you thought you saw a flicker of something in his expression—maybe it was amusement, maybe it was something else—but it quickly vanished as he turned his attention back to the ocean. “Keeho won’t let you live it down,” he said, his voice low, though there was a trace of something that almost sounded like... teasing? Or maybe he was just trying to act like he didn’t care.

“Oh, he’s definitely going to remind me every single day,” you said, laughing softly. “But I’ve already come to terms with the fact that I’ll never hear the end of it.”

Yechan smirked, though his eyes stayed focused on the waves, as if trying to avoid your gaze. “I guess I’ll just keep pretending I don’t know, then.”

You weren’t about to let him off that easily. You pushed yourself up from the chair and walked over to where he stood by the railing, stopping just a few inches away. “You don’t have to pretend,” you said, your voice much quieter now, the air between you two charged with a new kind of intensity. “I can tell you’re aware of it... you’re not as indifferent as you think.”

Yechan’s gaze shifted to you, and for the first time, you saw a flicker of something—maybe surprise, maybe something deeper—before he blinked and turned his head away. “I’m just... trying not to make things weird, okay?”

Your heart skipped in your chest. This was the closest he’d come to acknowledging it out loud. “Things are already weird, Yechan,” you said, stepping a little closer until the space between you was almost non-existent. “But I don’t mind.”

Yechan’s eyes flicked to yours again, and there it was—the hesitation, the brief battle between wanting to acknowledge this thing between you and keeping things simple, not wanting to complicate anything. He cleared his throat and took a half-step back, distancing himself as usual. “I don’t want to make you uncomfortable,” he muttered.

You couldn’t help the laugh that escaped your lips. “You’re the one making things weird by pretending you don’t notice.”

Yechan looked at you then, and for a second, the world felt like it slowed down. He didn’t say anything, but his eyes were full of understanding. There was something in the air, something that made your stomach twist.

Just as the moment hung between you, Keeho’s voice echoed from inside the house, interrupting whatever tension had been building. “You two are acting like you’ve never seen the ocean before.”

You pulled back immediately, both of you falling into the comfort of casual banter once more, but you couldn’t shake the feeling that something had changed. For better or worse, the tension was there now, and it wasn’t going away.

It was another golden summer day, and Keeho had decided it was perfect for a trip to the beach. You had no complaints; it was impossible to say no to the idea of cool water and warm sand. Plus, it was a chance to flaunt the new bikini you’d bought—a pastel, flattering piece that made you feel like a total knockout.

As you slipped on a light cover-up over your swimsuit, Keeho knocked on your door, already carrying a beach bag. “You ready yet?” he called out. When you opened the door, he looked you over and raised an eyebrow. “Cute, but you’re dressing up like this just in case Yechan magically appears at the beach, aren’t you?”

You rolled your eyes at him, pulling your hair up into a loose ponytail. “Don’t flatter your brother. The world doesn’t revolve around him.”

Keeho snorted as he leaned against the doorframe. “Sure, sure. You don’t think about him all the time. Totally believable.” He smirked, but before you could retort, he added, “By the way, he’s not even here. He’s at Seokjun’s, playing video games like the introvert he is.”

A wicked idea sparked in your mind, and you casually shrugged. “Good. Less competition for my time.” Keeho just laughed and walked off, leaving you alone in the hallway. You glanced toward Yechan’s door, the wheels in your head spinning.

You pushed open Yechan’s door with a quiet creak, glancing around his room. It was neat, a little too neat for someone like him—like it was straight out of a home décor magazine. The navy bedding looked soft and inviting, and you couldn’t resist the urge to lean down and sprawl out on it.

Fishing your phone out of your bag, you adjusted your bikini straps, propped yourself up on one elbow, and snapped a picture. The soft sunlight pouring through his window made the photo pop, accentuating your curves and the cheeky smile on your lips. Perfect.

You captioned it:

Could be yours, but you playing.

With a quick smirk, you hit send and lay back on his bed, already imagining the look on his face.

At Seokjun’s house, Yechan was in the middle of an intense round of Mario Kart. He had just overtaken Sungil and was gunning for the finish line when his phone buzzed on the cushion beside him. He almost ignored it, but a glimpse of your name on the notification made his stomach flip.

He swiped it open, and the image nearly made him drop his phone. His pulse spiked, and he stared at the screen for a few seconds, trying to process what he was looking at.

“Yo, you good?” Sungbin asked, noticing his sudden silence.

Yechan quickly locked the phone and stuffed it into his pocket. “Yeah,” he muttered, his voice strained. “Just... someone being annoying.”

But as his friends focused back on the game, Yechan couldn’t help but replay the image in his mind, your confident grin burned into his memory. He leaned back, his mind now completely elsewhere.

By the time you and Keeho reached the beach, the sun was high in the sky. The two of you set up a spot near the shoreline, stretching out on towels and soaking in the heat. Keeho pulled out a Bluetooth speaker, queuing up some music as you adjusted your sunglasses.

“This is the life,” Keeho sighed, lying back with his hands behind his head.

“It’s missing something,” you teased. “Like maybe an iced coffee? You could go get us one.”

“Pfft, I’m not your butler,” he scoffed, but the glint in his eyes showed he was joking.

A little later, you both spotted Intak and Lara walking toward you, their playful energy impossible to miss. Lara waved enthusiastically, her flowy cover-up billowing in the wind. “Finally! We’ve been looking for you two!”

“Looking for Keeho,” Intak corrected with a grin, tossing a volleyball between his hands.

You rolled your eyes. “And I’m just here for decoration?”

Lara linked her arm through yours. “You’re the star of the show, don’t even play.”

As the four of you spent the afternoon lounging and laughing, you couldn’t help but feel a sense of triumph. Somewhere, Yechan was probably still thinking about the picture you sent, and if you were lucky, it would leave him more flustered than he cared to admit.

The next morning, you woke up to the sound of Keeho’s obnoxious singing echoing through the house. He had clearly decided it was his personal mission to act like a human alarm clock. You groaned and buried your face in your pillow, the events of the previous day flashing through your mind.

You smirked to yourself. That picture you sent Yechan? Genius. You could only imagine the way he must’ve reacted, his cool, indifferent façade cracking just a little. But you hadn’t heard a single word from him since.

Dragging yourself out of bed, you threw on a comfy outfit and headed downstairs. Keeho was in the kitchen, flipping pancakes with an air of unnecessary confidence. “Morning, star shine,” he greeted with a grin. “Sleep well after flirting with the entire beach yesterday?”

You rolled your eyes, grabbing a glass of orange juice. “Jealous because I was the centre of attention and not you?”

“Please,” Keeho snorted, piling pancakes onto a plate. “I’m the life of the party no matter where I go. But hey, maybe next time Yechan will actually show up. If you’re lucky.”

You froze for a split second, but Keeho didn’t notice, too busy adding an obscene amount of syrup to his stack. You played it cool, shrugging as you leaned against the counter. “Why would I care if he shows up or not?”

Keeho didn’t even look up. “Uh-huh. Sure. You’re totally indifferent.”

Meanwhile, Yechan was sitting on the edge of Seokjun’s bed, his phone clutched in his hand. He hadn’t been able to stop thinking about that picture since you sent it. The confident smirk, the way you looked so effortless—it was driving him crazy.

His friends had called him out for zoning out during the game yesterday, but he couldn’t exactly tell them why. And now, he was stuck debating what to do next. He’d always thought you were gorgeous—anyone with eyes could see that—but your boldness had completely thrown him off balance.

Finally, he unlocked his phone and opened your message. His thumbs hovered over the screen before he finally typed back:

You really know how to get my attention, don’t you?

He stared at the text for a moment, debating whether to send it. Screw it. He hit send and tossed the phone onto the bed like it was a hot coal.

You were lounging on the deck with Keeho a little later, scrolling through your phone when the notification popped up. Seeing Yechan’s name made your heart skip a beat, and you bit your lip as you read his message.

You really know how to get my attention, don’t you?

Your lips curved into a sly smile, and you typed back without hesitation:

Took you long enough to notice.

Yechan’s reply came almost immediately this time.

What makes you think I didn’t notice before?

You raised an eyebrow at the screen, your mind racing. Was he actually flirting back? Keeho glanced over at you, curious. “Who’s got you smiling like that?”

“No one,” you lied, locking your phone and slipping it into your bag. Keeho gave you a suspicious look but didn’t push it.

Later that afternoon, Yechan finally returned to the house, his usual calm demeanour firmly in place. Keeho greeted him with his typical brotherly teasing, but Yechan barely acknowledged him, his eyes flickering to you instead.

You caught his gaze, and for a split second, the rest of the room seemed to fade away. His expression was unreadable, but there was a new energy in the air—charged, expectant.

Keeho, oblivious as always, clapped Yechan on the back. “Good, you’re back. I’m gonna need you to join me in kicking her butt at volleyball tomorrow.”

Yechan smirked slightly, his gaze never leaving yours. “We’ll see.”

You tilted your head, a playful challenge glinting in your eyes. “Don’t count on it. I’m full of surprises.”

Yechan’s smirk deepened, and for once, he didn’t try to hide it.

The next day, the beach buzzed with life. The sun blazed high in the sky, and the sound of waves crashing set the perfect backdrop for a lazy, summer afternoon. Keeho had roped you and Yechan into playing volleyball with Intak and Lara, claiming it was a “brotherly bonding experience” (even though you weren’t a brother)

You adjusted your sunglasses as Keeho set up the net. “Prepare to lose,” he said, smirking at Yechan.

Yechan barely responded, his focus drifting to you. You were adjusting your ponytail, the sun making your skin glow, and it took him a second to realize you were watching him, too. You raised an eyebrow as if to say, caught you staring.

“Are you even good at this?” you teased, stepping closer to him.

Yechan shrugged, rolling his shoulders like it was no big deal. “Guess we’ll find out.”

The game started light-hearted enough, with Intak and Keeho on one team and you and Yechan on the other. You weren’t exactly athletic, but Yechan carried the team effortlessly, his height and reflexes making up for any weaknesses.

“Looks like you’ve been practicing,” you said after he spiked the ball, earning you both a point.

Yechan smirked down at you. “Guess I don’t like losing.”

Keeho groaned from the other side of the net. “Can you two stop flirting for like, five seconds? Some of us are actually trying to win.”

You smirked back at Keeho. “If you tried harder, maybe you’d keep up.”

Keeho dramatically clutched his chest like you’d physically hurt him. “Wow. Betrayal. From my best friend.”

“You’ll get over it,” you said, tossing the ball to Intak for the next serve.

As the game went on, you found yourself hyper-aware of Yechan. The way his shirt clung to him as he moved, the sharp focus in his eyes whenever he went for the ball—it was like you were seeing him in a whole new light.

At one point, you missed a pass and sighed in frustration. Yechan stepped closer, his voice low enough that only you could hear. “Relax. I’ve got you.”

The way he said it sent a shiver down your spine, and you nodded, trying not to let your face give away how flustered you felt.

After the game, you all sprawled out on the sand, catching your breath. Intak and Keeho were arguing over who the real MVP was, while Lara scrolled through her phone, shaking her head at their antics.

You took a sip of water, glancing over at Yechan. He was lying back with his arms behind his head, the relaxed posture only adding to his quiet confidence.

“You’re quiet today,” you said, nudging his foot lightly with yours.

He glanced at you, his expression unreadable. “Just thinking.”

“About?”

Yechan hesitated, his eyes searching yours for a moment. “Nothing important.”

You raised an eyebrow, but before you could press further, Keeho interrupted. “Alright, who’s up for ice cream? My treat, because I clearly carried that game.”

The group groaned collectively, but everyone got up to follow him toward the boardwalk. You hung back for a moment, waiting for Yechan.

As you walked side by side, you leaned in just enough for your shoulder to brush his. “If you ever decide what you’re thinking about, let me know,” you said, your voice soft but teasing.

Yechan glanced down at you, and for once, there was no indifference in his gaze—just a flicker of something raw and honest. “Maybe I will.”

That evening, back at the house, the energy was lighter. Keeho had fallen asleep in the living room, his snores echoing down the hallway, while you were out on the deck, watching the stars.

You felt your phone buzz and looked down to see a message from Yechan.

Thanks for today. You’re not as bad at volleyball as I thought.

You smiled, your fingers hovering over the keyboard before typing back:

You’re welcome. And next time, try to keep up with me.

His reply came quickly.

You make it hard to focus.

Your heart skipped a beat, and you stared at the message, wondering if you were imagining the shift between you two.

Good

You replied, the boldness in your words masking the fluttering in your chest.

From across the hall, you could hear the faint sound of footsteps. A part of you wondered if Yechan was pacing, thinking about what to say next.

Or maybe, just maybe, he was thinking about you.

The evening air was warm but carried a slight chill that made the deck your favourite spot to wind down. The stars were impossibly bright, scattered across the sky like tiny diamonds. You sighed, leaning against the railing, letting the calmness of the moment wrap around you.

The faint creak of the deck boards broke your solitude, and you turned to see Yechan stepping out. He had changed into a plain hoodie and shorts, his hair slightly damp from a shower. He hesitated when he noticed you but then walked over, his hands tucked into his pockets.

“Couldn’t sleep?” you asked, your voice soft.

He shrugged. “Something like that. What about you?”

You gestured toward the sky. “I like the quiet. Helps me think.”

Yechan leaned against the railing beside you, his shoulder just inches from yours. “You? Thinking? That’s new,” he teased lightly, his tone carrying more warmth than usual.

You rolled your eyes, but a smile tugged at your lips. “You’re hilarious.”

The silence that followed wasn’t awkward. If anything, it was comforting, a rare moment where neither of you felt the need to fill the space with words.

Yechan finally broke the quiet. “About that text I sent earlier...”

Your heart skipped a beat. You played it cool, keeping your gaze on the ocean. “Which part? The compliment or the part where you admitted I distract you?”

A soft laugh escaped him, and he shook his head. “You don’t make this easy, do you?”

“Where’s the fun in that?” you shot back, turning to look at him. His profile was illuminated by the moonlight, and for a moment, you wondered if he had always looked this good, or if summer had somehow made him glow.

Yechan exhaled deeply, his hands gripping the railing. “You’re... different,” he said, his voice low.

“Different how?” you asked, tilting your head.

He glanced at you, his dark eyes searching yours. “I don’t know. It’s like you don’t care what anyone thinks. You just... do what you want. Say what you feel.”

You blinked, caught off guard by his honesty. “Is that a bad thing?”

“No,” he said quickly, shaking his head. “It’s not bad at all.”

The vulnerability in his tone made your chest tighten. You smiled softly, nudging his arm. “You know, Yechan, for someone who acts like they’ve got it all figured out, you’re pretty confusing.”

He chuckled, the sound soft and genuine. “Yeah? Well, you’re not exactly easy to read either.”

You raised an eyebrow. “Me? I’ve been throwing hints your way all summer.”

Yechan straightened, turning to face you fully. “I noticed,” he admitted, his voice dropping slightly. “I just... didn’t know what to do about it.”

Your heart was pounding now, but you refused to let him see how much his words affected you. “And now?” you asked, your voice barely above a whisper.

For a moment, he didn’t answer. Instead, he reached up, brushing a stray curl away from your face, his touch feather light. “Now, I’m figuring it out,” he said, his gaze locked onto yours.

The spell between you was broken by the sound of Keeho’s loud snore echoing from inside the house. You both laughed softly, the tension easing but not completely disappearing.

“You should get some sleep,” Yechan said, his voice gentler now.

“Maybe,” you replied, stepping back toward the door. Before you went inside, you turned back to him, your grin playful. “Don’t overthink it, Yechan. I’m not as complicated as you think.”

He watched you go, his lips curving into the faintest smile. Maybe you weren’t complicated. Maybe the only thing making this difficult was his own hesitation.

But one thing was certain: you were nothing like he expected, and he couldn’t stop himself from wanting to know more.

The beach was packed with energy. The usual crew—Keeho, Intak, Lara, and now Yechan—was joined by a few of his friends. One in particular, Gabby, caught your eye. She was petite and pretty, with big doe eyes and a shy demeanour that instantly made her likable to everyone.

Except, maybe, you.

It wasn’t Gabby’s fault. Really, it wasn’t. But watching Yechan fuss over her, making sure she was hydrated, holding her arm as they walked on the uneven sand, and even helping her adjust her beach chair? It was a lot.

You exhaled slowly, determined not to let it get to you. It wasn’t like you and Yechan were a thing. He was free to dote on whoever he wanted.

That didn’t stop the irritation from bubbling in your chest every time he smiled down at Gabby like she was made of glass.

Keeho noticed almost immediately. He nudged you as you stood by the cooler, grabbing a drink. “You okay? You’re being awfully quiet for someone who usually has a lot to say about Yechan.”

“I’m fine,” you replied curtly, popping the tab on your soda.

Keeho gave you a knowing look. “Sure, you are. Totally not seething with jealousy right now.”

You shot him a glare. “I’m not jealous. It’s just... weird, okay?”

“What’s weird?” Lara asked, joining you with her sunglasses perched on her head.

“Gabby,” Keeho answered before you could stop him. “Our girl here is having a hard time watching Yechan play knight in shining armour.”

“I’m not,” you insisted, though your clenched jaw betrayed you.

Lara raised an eyebrow. “I mean, I get it. She’s sweet, but she’s kind of like... the designated little sister of Yechan’s friend group. They all do it. I wouldn’t read too much into it.”

You shrugged, trying to brush it off. “I don’t care what he does.”

Keeho smirked. “Sure, you don’t.”

Determined to prove that you didn’t care, you decided to focus on having fun. You waded into the water, laughing with Intak as he tried to splash you but missed every time. Later, when you felt the sun starting to sting, you grabbed the sunscreen and handed it to Intak without a second thought.

“Help me out?” you asked, turning your back to him.

“Sure thing,” Intak said, rubbing the lotion into your shoulders with the kind of casual ease that only came from years of friendship.

You didn’t miss the way Yechan’s gaze flicked over to you, his jaw tightening slightly before he turned back to Gabby, who was trying to adjust her umbrella.

Keeho, ever the instigator, snickered to himself. “Oh, this is going to be fun,” he muttered to Lara, who rolled her eyes but smiled.

As the afternoon wore on, you decided to make things even more interesting. You and Lara started chatting up the lifeguard stationed nearby, a tall, muscular guy with a charming smile who was more than happy to flirt back.

Yechan, from his spot under the umbrella, watched the interaction with thinly veiled irritation. He didn’t say anything, but his usual calm demeanour seemed a little off.

By the time you returned to the group, laughing at something the lifeguard had said, Keeho was practically vibrating with glee.

“Having fun?” he asked, his tone dripping with mischief.

“Loads,” you replied, throwing him a wink.

Yechan glanced up at you, his expression unreadable. “Done making friends?”

You shrugged, grabbing your towel. “For now.”

He didn’t respond, but the tension between you was palpable, leaving Keeho and Lara exchanging knowing looks behind your back.

Later, as the sun began to set and everyone started packing up, you found yourself alone near the shoreline, the waves lapping at your feet. Yechan approached quietly, his hands stuffed in his pockets.

“Busy day,” he said, his voice neutral.

You glanced at him, a smirk tugging at your lips. “You sound annoyed. Something on your mind?”

He looked at you for a long moment, his jaw tight. “Nothing important.”

You raised an eyebrow, refusing to let him off the hook. “If you’ve got something to say, Yechan, just say it.”

He hesitated, the words on the tip of his tongue, but then he shook his head. “Never mind.”

Frustration bubbled up, but you bit it back. Instead, you turned to the ocean, letting the cool breeze calm your nerves. “Suit yourself.”

Yechan stood there for a moment longer before walking away, leaving you alone with your thoughts and the sound of the waves.

The days after the beach outing carried a tension that no one dared to fully acknowledge. Yechan was distant, though not in a way anyone else seemed to notice. To his friends, he was the same calm and thoughtful guy. To you, though, there was a noticeable shift.

He didn’t tease you as much, didn’t make those passing comments that always left you blushing or flustered. If anything, he seemed to be avoiding you—just enough to make you notice but not enough to draw attention from anyone else.

Which was fine. Totally fine, you told yourself.

Keeho, of course, wasn’t buying it.

“You’re really going to let him ignore you?” he asked one afternoon as you sat on the deck, pretending not to watch Yechan and Gabby playing volleyball with the rest of the group.

“I don’t care,” you said, sipping your drink and refusing to look away from your phone.

Keeho snorted. “Sure, you don’t. That’s why you’ve been glaring at Gabby like she stole your favourite hoodie.”

You rolled your eyes. “I’m not glaring.”

“Uh-huh,” Keeho said, leaning back in his chair. “You know, you could always—”

“I’m not doing anything,” you interrupted, your tone sharp. “If Yechan wants to act like I don’t exist, that’s his problem, not mine.”

Keeho held up his hands in mock surrender. “Alright, alright. Just saying.”

Despite your best efforts to brush it off, Yechan’s indifference gnawed at you. It wasn’t that you expected anything from him, but after the tension you’d shared at the beach—and the way he had looked at you that night on the deck—it was hard not to feel... disappointed.

So, you threw yourself into enjoying the rest of the summer.

You joined Intak and Lara for early-morning swims, helped Keeho grill during cookouts, and even started practicing volleyball with the lifeguard, who had taken an interest in teaching you the basics.

And if Yechan happened to glance your way when you laughed a little too loudly or stood a little too close to someone else? That was his problem.

The sun was setting, casting an orange glow over the living room as Yechan and his friends lounged around after a day at the beach. Pizza boxes were scattered on the coffee table, and Sungbin had just paused their video game to grab another slice.

Gabby, sitting cross-legged on the armchair, tilted her head curiously toward Yechan. “So, what’s the deal with her? Keeho’s best friend?”

Yechan glanced up from his phone, trying to feign nonchalance. “What about her?”

“Oh, come on,” Seokjun chimed in, grinning. “Don’t play dumb. Gabby’s been dying to ask if there’s something going on between you two.”

Dogyun, the youngest, gasped dramatically. “Wait, are you hiding secret feelings, hyung?!”

Yechan leaned back, rubbing the back of his neck as if the question were too much effort. “She’s Keeho’s crazy best friend. That’s it.”

Sungil raised an eyebrow, setting his drink down. “Yeah, but she’s always around, and I saw the way she looked at you at the beach the other day.”

“She’s gorgeous,” Sungmo added with a shrug. “I’d be interested if I were you.”

Gabby rolled her eyes. “Y’all are hopeless. It’s obvious she’s into him. Don’t tell me you haven’t noticed.”

Yechan hesitated, a small smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. “Noticed what?”

Gabby leaned forward, her voice teasing. “Don’t act like you don’t know you’re hot. She’s been crushing on you for ages.”

Sungbin laughed, tossing a pillow at Yechan. “Yeah, she probably writes your name in her notebook like a high schooler.”

“She’s not like that,” Yechan replied, his tone more serious now. “She’s… bold but sweet. And I guess I don’t mind it.”

The group erupted into teasing noises, and Gabby threw her hands up in victory. “Ha! Knew it. You do like her!”

Yechan shrugged, picking at a slice of pizza. “I didn’t say that. I just said I don’t mind her.”

Sungil chuckled, pointing at him. “You’re so whipped, bro. Just admit it before she moves on to someone else.”

“Like Ethan?” Dogyun added, grinning mischievously.

That got Yechan’s attention. He sat up straighter, his jaw tightening ever so slightly. “Ethan? He’s not her type.”

Gabby and the others exchanged knowing looks but decided not to press further. As the conversation shifted to another topic, Yechan’s thoughts lingered on you—on the way you laughed, the way you spoke, and the way you weren’t afraid to challenge him.

One evening, after another long day at the beach, you found yourself alone in the kitchen, drying dishes. The house was quiet, everyone else scattered between the living room and the deck.

Yechan walked in, his hoodie slung over one shoulder. He paused when he saw you but continued to the fridge, grabbing a bottle of water.

“Hey,” he said, his tone neutral.

“Hey,” you replied without looking at him.

He lingered by the counter, taking a long sip of water. The silence stretched between you, heavy and unspoken.

Finally, he broke it. “You’ve been busy.”

You raised an eyebrow, glancing at him. “Is that your way of saying you’ve been watching me?”

Yechan’s lips twitched, the hint of a smile playing at the corners. “Maybe.”

You set down the dish towel, crossing your arms. “And?”

He shrugged, his gaze steady. “And nothing. Just... noticed.”

The way he said it, so casual yet loaded with meaning, made your pulse quicken. But you refused to let him have the upper hand.

“Well, I’m glad I’ve been keeping you entertained,” you said, turning back to the sink.

Yechan didn’t respond right away, but you could feel his eyes on you. Finally, he said, “You’re good at that.”

Before you could figure out how to respond, he was gone, leaving you with the echo of his words and a heart that wouldn’t stop racing.

The lifeguard’s invitation caught you off guard, though you couldn’t deny the rush of satisfaction that followed. His name was Ethan, and he had the confidence of someone who knew exactly how good he looked. He’d been hovering around your group for weeks, always friendly, but today he decided to push the boundaries.

“So,” Ethan said with a grin as you stood by the beach bar, sipping on a cold lemonade, “how about I take you out sometime? Dinner, maybe?”

You blinked, momentarily stunned. You weren’t used to being asked out so directly. But then you remembered Yechan’s lingering glances and the way he’d been brushing you off lately. A small smile crept onto your face.

“Sure,” you said, your voice light. “Why not?”

When you got back to the house, the mood was lively. Everyone was sprawled out in the living room, flipping through a movie selection for the night. Keeho and Lara exchanged a quick glance when they saw you, no doubt curious about the extra spring in your step.

“Where’ve you been?” Keeho asked casually as you dropped onto the couch.

“Just talking to Ethan,” you said, your tone nonchalant.

Keeho’s eyebrow shot up. “Oh, Ethan now, huh?”

“Ethan the lifeguard?” Intak chimed in, leaning forward with a grin. “What’s going on there?”

You smirked, glancing at Yechan, who was lounging against the armrest, his eyes fixed on the TV screen as though he wasn’t listening. “He asked me out,” you said, your voice a little louder than necessary.

The room collectively erupted with a mix of reactions—Lara’s teasing “Ooooh,” Keeho’s mock gasp, and Intak’s exaggerated cheer. But Yechan? He didn’t say a word.

Later that night, as you headed to the kitchen for a glass of water, you found Yechan leaning against the counter, scrolling on his phone. He looked up when you entered, his expression unreadable.

“You and Ethan, huh?” he said, his tone light but laced with something else.

You shrugged, opening the fridge. “What about it?”

He hesitated, his eyes narrowing slightly. “Nothing. Just didn’t think he was your type.”

“And what’s my type, Yechan?” you asked, turning to face him.

He leaned back, crossing his arms. “Not him.”

You raised an eyebrow, stepping closer. “Should I cancel, then?”

His jaw tightened, but he forced a smirk. “Why would you do that? You seemed pretty excited to say yes.”

You shrugged, your smile playful. “I don’t know. Maybe I just like keeping you guessing.”

The challenge in your voice hung in the air, but Yechan didn’t take the bait. Instead, he pushed off the counter, brushing past you with a casual, “Have fun.”

The door swung shut behind him, and you let out a breath you hadn’t realized you were holding.

The date with Ethan had started promisingly enough. He’d picked a quaint seafood place not far from the beach, the ambiance warm and romantic. But it became painfully clear halfway through the appetizer that he was more interested in talking about himself than getting to know you.

By the time dessert arrived, you’d smiled and nodded so much your cheeks hurt. Ethan was nice enough, but nice wasn’t enough to distract you from the nagging ache that had been building since Yechan’s comment in the kitchen.

Still, you weren’t about to let anyone, especially Yechan, know how disastrous the night had been.

When you got back to the house, the lights were dim, and the only sound was the faint crash of waves through the open windows. You kicked off your sandals and padded into the kitchen, where Yechan sat at the island, scrolling through his phone. He glanced up, his expression neutral but curious.

“You’re back early,” he said, setting his phone down.

“It’s late enough,” you replied, opening the fridge and pulling out a bottle of water.

Yechan watched you as you leaned against the counter, taking a long sip. “So,” he started, his tone casual, “how was it?”

You shrugged, letting a mischievous smile creep onto your face. “It was great. Ethan’s really sweet. And funny. And, wow, so attentive.”

Yechan’s jaw tightened almost imperceptibly, but he kept his expression calm. “That right?”

“Mm-hmm,” you said, walking over to stand opposite him. “He even held my hand when we walked on the pier. Like a proper gentleman.”

He snorted, leaning back in his chair. “Sounds like a dream.”

“Oh, he was,” you said, your voice dripping with mock sweetness. “I think we might even go out again. You know, see where things go.”

For a moment, he didn’t respond. The air between you grew heavy, the tension you’d been dancing around all summer threatening to snap. Finally, Yechan stood, closing the space between you in a few deliberate steps.

“You’re really going to sit there and act like he’s what you want?” he said, his voice low, challenging.

Your breath hitched, but you refused to back down. “And what if he is?”

He smirked, the corner of his mouth lifting in a way that sent shivers down your spine. “Then you’ve got terrible taste.”

“Excuse me?” you shot back, narrowing your eyes.

“You heard me,” he said, his voice steady but tinged with frustration. “You think Ethan would’ve known how to make tonight worth your time? How to make you feel special?”

“And you would’ve?” you challenged, your voice rising slightly.

He stepped closer, the intensity in his gaze making your pulse race. “Yeah. I would’ve.”

The silence that followed was deafening. Your heart pounded as you stared at him, the weight of his words sinking in. Finally, you found your voice, though it came out softer than you intended.

“Then why didn’t you?”

Yechan’s eyes flickered with something you couldn’t quite place—regret, maybe, or resolve. He opened his mouth to respond, but whatever he was about to say was interrupted by the sound of Keeho’s voice calling from upstairs.

You both froze, the spell between you momentarily broken.

Yechan stepped back, running a hand through his hair. “Goodnight,” he said shortly, turning and walking out of the kitchen.

You stood there, your emotions swirling, wondering if you’d ever get the answer to your question.

Your Pov

The kitchen felt emptier after Yechan left, but the charged air he left behind clung to you. You stood frozen, replaying his words in your mind.

“Yeah. I would’ve.”

The way he’d said it, like it was the most obvious thing in the world, had sent a thrill through you that you weren’t ready to admit. But it was the look in his eyes, the mix of challenge and vulnerability, that lingered the most.

You exhaled, gripping the counter for support. Why now? Why had he decided to say something now, when you’d spent weeks playing this game of cat and mouse? Did he mean it, or was he just trying to win whatever unspoken competition he thought you were having?

The question ate at you as you made your way upstairs, your heart pounding with each step.

Yechan’s Pov

Yechan shut the door to his room, leaning against it as he let out a frustrated sigh. He rubbed a hand over his face, replaying the kitchen conversation in his head.

He hadn’t meant to snap. Watching you waltz in and talk about Ethan like he was some Prince Charming had been harder than he expected. Yechan knew he shouldn’t care—it wasn’t like you were his. But hearing you gush, even if it was clearly exaggerated, had struck a nerve.

Because deep down, he knew you were doing it on purpose. And the worst part? It worked.

Yechan paced the room, his emotions warring. He didn’t want to admit it, but the idea of you with someone else—especially someone like Ethan—was unbearable.

He paused by the window, looking out at the dark ocean. Why hadn’t he just said something sooner? Why did he always act so indifferent when it came to you?

The answer was simple: you terrified him. Not in a bad way, but in a way that made him question everything he thought he knew about himself. You weren’t just Keeho’s crazy best friend. You were vibrant, bold, and breath-taking in ways he wasn’t sure he could handle.

But after tonight, Yechan knew one thing for certain—he was done pretending he didn’t care.

The tension after that night in the kitchen didn’t disappear—it lingered like a storm cloud, heavy and oppressive, following you and Yechan everywhere.

He’d been quieter than usual during group hangouts, his snarky comments replaced with clipped responses. But his eyes told a different story. Every time you laughed a little too loudly with Ethan, leaned too close to Keeho, or smiled at Intak, Yechan was watching. He didn’t try to hide it.

You weren’t faring much better. Every sideways glance he threw your way made your stomach flip, and you hated that you were starting to anticipate his reactions.

One evening, Keeho decided to organize a bonfire on the beach. Everyone was there—Lara, Intak, Seokjun, Sungbin, Gabby, and even Ethan, who’d brought his guitar. The crackling fire, combined with the sound of the waves, should’ve been relaxing, but it wasn’t.

You could feel Yechan’s presence even when you weren’t looking at him. He sat a few feet away, his long legs stretched out in the sand, his gaze fixed on the fire but flickering toward you every few minutes.

You tried to ignore him, focusing instead on Ethan, who was strumming some upbeat tune and encouraging everyone to sing along. But when Ethan shifted closer to you, his arm brushing against yours, you couldn’t help but glance at Yechan.

The look he gave you was unreadable, his jaw tight as he turned his attention to the flames.

The tension finally broke when the group started packing up for the night. Ethan offered to walk you back to the house, and you agreed, partly to avoid the awkward silence that had been brewing between you and Yechan.

But as you reached the edge of the porch, Yechan was there, leaning against the railing with his hands in his pockets.

“Didn’t realize you needed a chaperone,” he said, his tone casual but his eyes sharp as they flicked to Ethan.

Ethan laughed awkwardly. “Just being polite, man.”

Yechan didn’t respond, his gaze shifting to you.

“Thanks for the walk, Ethan,” you said quickly, stepping onto the porch.

Ethan hesitated but eventually nodded. “See you tomorrow?”

“Maybe,” you replied, your tone deliberately vague.

When Ethan disappeared down the path, you turned to find Yechan still watching you.

“Was that necessary?” you asked, crossing your arms.

Yechan shrugged, his expression unreadable. “Just looking out for you.”

“I don’t need you to ‘look out for me,’ Yechan,” you snapped, the frustration that had been building for days finally bubbling over.

His eyes narrowed slightly, and for a moment, neither of you spoke. Then, without warning, he stepped closer, his voice dropping.

“Do you really not get it?” he asked, his tone laced with frustration.

“Get what?” you shot back, though your heart was pounding.

Yechan exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair. “Forget it,” he muttered, turning toward the door.

But you weren’t about to let him walk away again.

“Yechan,” you said, your voice steady despite the storm raging inside you. “If you have something to say, just say it.”

He froze, his hand on the doorknob, before turning back to face you. His eyes met yours, and for the first time all summer, you saw everything he’d been holding back.

“Maybe I just don’t like seeing you with someone who doesn’t deserve you,” he said finally, his voice soft but firm.

Yechan’s words hung in the air, heavy and unyielding. Your heart pounded in your chest, his confession sending a surge of emotions through you—relief, frustration, and a flicker of hope.

“Doesn’t deserve me?” you repeated, your voice low, trembling with restrained emotion. “And who does, Yechan? You?”

His eyes flashed, his jaw tightening as he stepped closer. “Maybe I do,” he said, his voice laced with heat and vulnerability. “Maybe I’ve been trying to figure out how to tell you all summer while you’ve been busy parading Ethan around like some prize.”

You blinked, stunned by his boldness. “You’ve been brushing me off for the longest,” you shot back, your voice rising. “Acting like I’m just Keeho’s crazy best friend, like I don’t mean anything to you!”

“Because I didn’t want to screw this up!” he exploded, his frustration spilling over. “Do you know how hard it’s been? Watching you, wanting you, and not knowing if you actually see me or if I’m just some crush you’re going to get over when you find someone better?”

You stared at him, your anger simmering as his words sank in. “You don’t get to play the victim, Yechan,” you said, stepping closer. “I’ve been here, waiting for you to give me a single sign that you care, and all you’ve done is push me away.”

“I was scared,” he admitted, his voice dropping. “Scared that I wasn’t enough for you. That I’d mess things up and lose you completely.”

“Then stop running,” you said, your voice soft but steady.

His gaze locked on yours, and in that moment, the last of his restraint crumbled.

He closed the distance between you in two quick steps, his hands cupping your face as he kissed you with all the urgency and emotion he’d been holding back. It wasn’t gentle or careful—it was raw, heated, and filled with everything neither of you had been able to say.

You melted into him, your hands gripping his shirt as you kissed him back, matching his intensity. The world around you seemed to fade, the only thing that mattered was him—his touch, his warmth, his unmistakable presence.

When you finally pulled back, both of you were breathing hard, your foreheads pressed together.

“You drive me insane, you know that?” he murmured, his voice rough but filled with a hint of a smile.

You let out a breathless laugh. “Good. Now you know how I feel.”

He chuckled softly, his thumb brushing over your cheek. “This doesn’t mean I’m going to make it easy for you.”

“I’d be disappointed if you did,” you teased, your lips curling into a grin.

For the first time all summer, the tension between you wasn’t a barrier—it was a promise.

The kiss was a spark that lit the fuse. Neither of you hesitated as Yechan took your hand, his fingers threading through yours as he pulled you toward the stairs. Your heart raced, not just from the kiss but from the intensity in his eyes—like he’d been holding himself back for so long and finally decided not to anymore.

The sky seemed to tilt as he lifted you, carrying you with ease to his bedroom. You didn’t protest, your arms looping around his neck as you pressed kisses to his jawline, the faint stubble tickling your lips.

In his room, the walls bore witness to the unravelling of restraint. He set you down, his fingers skimming the straps of your sundress as if asking for permission.

“You’re thinking,” he said, his voice low and rough.

You tilted your head, a teasing smile tugging at your lips. “And you’re not?”

“Not anymore,” he murmured, stepping closer.

He kissed you again, softer this time, his hands finding your waist and pulling you against him. It was different—slower but no less charged, like he was trying to make up for all the moments he’d held himself back.

Your hands found their way to his chest, his shoulders, anywhere you could touch, as you deepened the kiss. The tension that had been building all summer spilled over, each touch, each kiss, carrying the weight of everything you’d both left unsaid.

As he guided you to his bed and laid you down, his lips never leaving yours, the memory of the picture you’d sent flashed in your mind. You pulled back slightly, your breathing uneven as you met his gaze.

“That picture,” you said softly, your voice teasing.

His lips curved into a smirk, his hands sliding up your sides. “Yeah?”

“Did you like it?”

Yechan chuckled, his voice low and dangerous. “Liked it enough to almost lose a game over it.”

You laughed, your fingers tangling in his hair. “Good. That’s what I was going for.”

He leaned down, his forehead resting against yours. “You’re trouble, you know that?”

“Only for you,” you whispered, pulling him back down to you.

The moon had kissed the horizon, leaving a faint silver glow over the room. As you pulled Yechan closer to you, the energy between you was palpable—a mix of unspoken words and longing too intense to ignore.

“Do you even know what you do to me?” Yechan murmured, his voice low, gravelly, as his hand slipped from your waist to intertwine with your fingers.

His words hung in the air like the tide at its peak, lingering, refusing to recede. You shifted closer, your heart pounding, and placed your free hand on his chest. Beneath your touch, his heart beat just as fiercely, a rhythm that echoed your own.

“I could say the same about you,” you replied, your voice a whisper, as if anything louder would break the spell.

Yechan’s gaze softened, his possessiveness melting into something more tender, more reverent. He reached up, tracing the curve of your jaw with his thumb, his touch so delicate it made your breath catch.

“From the moment you sent that picture,” he said, his lips curving into a faint smirk, “I haven’t been able to think straight. You’ve been in my head—every moment, every thought.”

Heat warmed your cheeks, but you met his eyes, unyielding. “So, what are you going to do about it?

His answer was a kiss, slow and purposeful, like the first drop of rain after a long drought. It deepened with every passing second, his hands sliding to your waist, pulling you flush against him. His lips spoke the words his heart hadn’t yet dared to say: You’re mine. I’ll prove it.

“You’re beautiful,” he breathed, his voice breaking slightly, heavy with emotion.

You reached for him, your hands tracing his collarbone, his shoulders, as if committing every inch of him to memory. “So are you,” you replied, meaning it.

What followed was a symphony of stolen breath and whispered confessions. He worshiped every part of you with a reverence that made your chest ache, made you feel seen in a way no one ever had before.

“I would’ve been better,” he whispered at one point, his voice raw, his lips pressed to your shoulder. “No one could ever be better for you than me.”

“Then prove it,” you challenged, your voice teasing but your eyes daring him.

Tugging him back to you by the back of his neck, you reciprocate the need in this kiss, screaming all the things you’ve been holding back over the past weeks. Yechan straightens, heat coursing through him as hands reaching for the hem of your sundress to get access to you. You shiver lightly at the chill of his fingertips against your warm skin.

His lips caught yours once more, swallowing your sigh of content when his hands found your sensitive mounds. They moulded to the shape of his cool palms with every grope and squeeze. His thumbs ran over your pebbling nipples, then his kisses left your lips in favour of trailing them down your jaw, neck and chest. Making sure to kiss lovingly over each beauty mark on his way down to your needy nipples.

“Fuck, Yechan.” You sighed out, arching into his touch, feeling his tongue flick over your left nipple then the right. Softly caressing them and sending subtle waves of pleasure down to your core. Your bikini bottoms were soaking for sure, but not from the earlier swim. Peeking down at Yechan, you swore he looked so pretty toying and licking at your breasts.

At the realisation that he’s still fully clothed, he sheds his own t-shirt, grabbing the back of his collar and pulling it up over his head. Your eyes trail over his honeyed torso that melts into fine lines between defined abs. Yeah, you were crazy about him.

Reaching out to trace your fingers along his warm skin, taut muscles contracting at the coldness of your fingertips. Your fingers move at their own accord, tugging his drawstrings loose and hooking them beneath his waistband. Looking up at him through your lashes, he bites his lip as he pulls down his sweats, throwing them to the side.

Both left in only your underwear, he captures your lips once more and you hold each other close. So close you can feel each other’s warmth between your bodies. He’s hard against your clothed core and you know you’re about to completely ruin your bottoms when you reach a hand down to palm him over his briefs.

“Shit, baby. That feels good.” Yechan grunts, kissing you messily and gripping your waist firmly. He pants against your lips as he ruts into your touch, your mind goes wild at the size of him hidden away.

Yechan groans and pulls the flimsy material of your bottoms down and tosses them off to the side. Tugging him back in for a searing kiss, Yechan swallows your whimpers of pleasure that his skilled fingers earn him. Collecting the arousal on two of his digits before easing them past your tight entrance. Your gummy walls encasing them in warmth that causes his length to twitch within the confinement of his briefs.

With precision, he takes in all your reactions with concentration, curling and twisting his fingers to bring you absolute pleasure. Breaking from your kiss to mouth at your neck, your mewling sending blood straight to his aching cock. “You sound so pretty.” He noses up the side of your neck to whisper deeply, “Does that feel good, baby?” Kissing right on your pulse.

Your walls clench tightly around his digits, earning yourself a pleased chuckle. His thumb meets your clit and electricity shoots through you. The band of pleasure tightening with each drag and brush against that spot that makes you see stars. This shouldn’t feel so right, so good and so perfect. But it does and you’re coming undone.

Not letting you ride it out completely before he kisses you over and over, as he reaches over to his bedside drawer for a condom. Ridding himself of the last item of clothing, he sits on his knees to put it on, he gives himself a few pumps before leaning back over you. He lines his tip up with your entrance, making sure to hold your eye contact in case you changed your mind. But you didn’t, you simply spread your legs wider, with an assuring nod and he slid in slowly.

A whimper reached his ears and he kissed the side of your face repeatedly, “It’s okay, I know, baby. I know.” His soft kisses distracted you from the slight sting and before you knew it, your bodies were pressed flush against each other.

Your needy voice was the only thing he needed as he began to pull back till just the tip and slid back into you so smoothly thanks to your previous orgasm. He held himself up to thrust into you slowly, deeply. All while watching your reactions, you were very responsive. Especially when you could quite literally feel all of him dragging deliciously against your slippery walls. The eye contact made it that much sexier cause damn, he looked gorgeous.

You wrapped your legs around his waist and the new angle allowing his tip to dig into that same spongy spot that had you seeing stars.

“Oh fuck, Yechan. Right there.” You didn’t need to tell him twice. Yechan was now ramming into that spot repeatedly. Pushing you closer and closer towards the edge of your second climax, but you fight it off and he notices.

“It’s okay, baby. You can cum.” You shake your head in resistance and he chuckles amused. “Be a good girl and cum.”

Whatever was in his tone made your body listen, submitting to the pleasure and succumbing to the climax. Though Yechan, didn’t think it through because his own climax ran through him at the tightening of your walls. Cursing through gritted teeth, his grip on your waist is bruising as he slams into you one last time, shallowly stroking to make it last for both of you. Hips stilling, chests heaving, you run your hands up and down his slippery back. Needing to be touching every inch of him.

The stillness after was soft, like the lull of waves against the shore. Yechan lay beside you, his hand brushing over your curls as he whispered praises into the quiet.

“You’re unreal,” he murmured, his lips pressing against your temple. “Everything about you. You’re mine, yeah?”

“Yours,” you replied, your voice heavy with sleep and satisfaction.

The room was quiet except for the sound of your soft breathing and the distant crash of the waves outside. Yechan lay beside you, his arm draped over your waist, his fingers idly tracing patterns on your skin. The fire that had consumed both of you earlier had burned down to a warm, steady glow, leaving you cocooned in the aftereffects of your shared vulnerability.

“You okay?” he murmured, his voice hushed and tender.

You turned your head to meet his eyes, a soft smile tugging at your lips. “Yeah. Are you?”

His expression softened, and he nodded, brushing a strand of hair from your face. “Better than okay.”

The honesty in his words made your chest tighten. You reached up to touch his cheek, your thumb grazing over his skin. “You’re kind of perfect when you’re like this,” you whispered, your voice barely audible.

He chuckled, pressing a kiss to your forehead. “Don’t get used to it. I’ve got a reputation to protect.”

You laughed, the sound light and free, as you curled closer to him. He held you there, his hand smoothing over your back, grounding you in the warmth of his presence.

Eventually, he helped you sit up, brushing a kiss to your shoulder before grabbing one of his oversized hoodies for you to wear.

“Here,” he said, slipping it over your head with a teasing smile. “Not that I’m complaining, but I don’t want you catching a cold.”

“Look at you being all responsible,” you teased, though the gesture made your heart swell.

Yechan raised an eyebrow, smirking as he leaned down. “Don’t push it.”

In the soft glow of the moonlight filtering through the blinds, the two of you cleaned up together. There was a surprising sweetness to it, like this was something you’d done a hundred times before. When everything was settled, you ended up back in his bed, tangled together under the covers.

“You drive me insane,” he said again, his voice muffled as he pressed his face into your neck.

“Good,” you whispered, brushing your fingers through his hair. “I plan to keep doing it.”

His quiet laugh rumbled against your skin, and for the first time in weeks, the tension between you dissolved into something warm and certain.

You woke to sunlight streaming through the window and the smell of coffee drifting up from downstairs. Yechan was still asleep, his arm slung across your waist, his face peaceful in the morning light.

The moment of quiet bliss didn’t last long.

A loud knock on the door made you both jolt awake.

“Yechan, get your lazy ass up,” Keeho’s voice called from the hallway. “Breakfast is ready, and Mom’s on the phone asking where you are.”

Your eyes widened as panic set in. “Oh my gosh,” you whispered, scrambling to sit up.

Yechan groaned, running a hand over his face. “Relax. He’s not coming in.”

As if on cue, the door handle jiggled.

“Bro, is your door locked? What are you hiding?” Keeho’s teasing tone was unmistakable.

You glared at Yechan, who looked entirely too amused by the situation. “This is your fault,” you hissed.

He smirked, pulling you back down beside him. “Let him figure it out.”

You froze, your heart racing as Keeho continued to rattle the door handle.

“Seriously, Yechan?” Keeho’s voice was louder now, laced with playful suspicion. “Are you hiding something in there? Is it Gabby? Oh my gosh… is it Jun?”

Yechan snorted, his arm tightening around your waist as he leaned closer, his breath warm against your ear. “He’s such a drama queen.”

“This isn’t funny,” you hissed, elbowing him.

“Yechan!” Keeho banged on the door again. “Come on, I’m not leaving until you open up.”

Yechan sighed, clearly enjoying your panicked expression a little too much. He kissed your temple before finally sitting up. “Relax. I’ve got this.”

You watched, equal parts horrified and curious, as Yechan padded to the door, unlocking it just enough to peek his head out.

“Dude, chill,” he said, his tone as nonchalant as ever. “What do you want?”

Keeho squinted at him suspiciously. “Why’s your door locked? And why do you look so...” He gestured vaguely. “...dishevelled?”

Yechan shrugged, leaning casually against the doorframe. “Maybe because you woke me up at the ass-crack of dawn?”

Keeho crossed his arms, clearly not buying it. “It’s almost noon, Yechan.” His eyes narrowed. “You’re hiding something. Is Gabby in there?”

“Why are you so obsessed with Gabby?” Yechan shot back, rolling his eyes. “She’s not here, Keeho. Now can I get dressed, or are you planning to stand here all day?”

Keeho looked like he wanted to argue, but eventually, he relented. “Fine. But hurry up, dude.”

Yechan shut the door with a quiet click and turned to you, a victorious smirk on his face.

“See? Told you I had it under control.”

You glared at him, throwing a pillow in his direction. “I hate you.”

“No, you don’t.” He crossed the room, leaning over you with a smug grin. “You’re just mad because I look this good after waking up.”

You rolled your eyes, but the warmth in his gaze made it impossible to stay annoyed.

“Come on,” he said softly, tilting your chin up. “Let’s get downstairs before Keeho comes back.”

As much as you wanted to stay in the comfort of his room, the thought of Keeho barging in again was enough to spur you into action.

The tension from earlier still clung to you like the salty air as you followed Yechan downstairs, but you both kept it light, the playful energy returning. The scent of pancakes and eggs wafted through the house as you made your way to the kitchen. Keeho was already sitting at the counter, scrolling through his phone, his posture relaxed, but his eyes immediately snapped up when you entered.

“About time,” Keeho said, a teasing smile curling on his lips as his gaze flickered between you and Yechan. “I thought I was gonna have to come up there and drag you both down.”

Yechan shrugged, clearly unfazed. “I’m just giving her time to wake up. She’s not as strong as me in the mornings.”

You rolled your eyes, grabbing a plate. “Oh please. If anyone’s a morning person, it’s me.”

“You sure about that?” Yechan raised an eyebrow, his smirk never leaving his face. He was clearly enjoying the playful back-and-forth.

“I’m sure. You’ve never seen me before my coffee.” You turned to Keeho. “I’m also sure I could probably take you in a race to the kitchen.”

Keeho laughed, clearly entertained. “Sure, you could, but I think I’m still the fastest here.”

“You wanna test it?” Yechan cut in, his voice light but with a glint of challenge in his eyes.

Keeho didn’t miss the opportunity, standing up. “You’re on. But no cheating, little brother.”

You watched with amusement as they squared off, already planning out some impromptu race down the beach later. The absurdity of it all made your chest tighten in a way that was almost... nice.

“Fine, but if I win, you’re making breakfast tomorrow,” Keeho said, throwing down the challenge.

Yechan pretended to consider it before nodding. “Deal. But if I win, you’re doing my laundry for a week.”

The two of them laughed at the thought, and you couldn’t help but shake your head. The light-hearted moment was a stark contrast to the complicated emotions still buzzing inside you, but for now, it felt like a little pocket of relief.

You all sat down together, continuing the banter as you ate, the conversation flowing easily between you, Yechan, and Keeho. Despite everything that had happened, there was a comfortable sense of normalcy—at least for now.

“So,” Keeho said between bites, glancing at you with a mischievous grin. “How was the date last night? I heard it went so well.”

You swallowed, the memory of Ethan and the awkwardness of the date still fresh in your mind. “Yeah, it was... fine,” you said, forcing a smile. “Nothing compared to hanging out here, though.”

Yechan’s gaze flickered over to you, a subtle change in his expression, but he said nothing, opting instead to reach over and steal a pancake off your plate.

Keeho raised an eyebrow at the interaction but didn’t push further. “Good, good. Just don’t forget you’ve got the rest of the summer to enjoy, okay? No more distractions.”

You shot Yechan a look, half teasing and half challenging. “No more distractions, huh? Guess we’ll see about that.”

Yechan, ever the smooth talker, winked at you. “No promises, but I’ll try to keep it interesting.”

As the conversation continued, you couldn’t shake the sense that something had shifted, not just between you and Yechan, but in the space between all of you. And for now, you were okay with that.

The rest of the morning passed in a haze of laughter and light teasing, with Keeho leaving the kitchen to go hang out with Intak. You and Yechan had a brief, stolen moment alone while the others were getting ready for the day.

You were at the kitchen counter, mindlessly scrolling through your phone when Yechan suddenly appeared behind you, leaning over your shoulder. His presence was warm, familiar-and now, it felt different, charged with the unspoken promise that had settled between you the night before.

“You’ve got a smudge right here,” he said, his fingers gently brushing the side of your lip.

You froze, suddenly acutely aware of his closeness. His touch lingered longer than necessary, and when you looked up at him, your breath caught. His lips were close-too close. The air between you crackled.

“Yechan.” You whispered, your voice trailing off as your eyes met his.

He didn’t respond right away, his gaze lowering to your lips before meeting your eyes again. There was something almost playful in the way he looked at you, but the tension was undeniable.

“You’re too easy to tease” he murmured with a smirk before brushing his thumb over your bottom lip. “But I like it.”

A teasing smile tugged at your lips. “ls that so?”

Before you could say anything else, he closed the gap, his lips capturing yours in a kiss that was soft at first, tentative as if he was testing the waters. But when you kissed him back, something shifted—his arms wrapped around you, pulling you closer as the kiss deepened, slow and deliberate, until the world around you seemed to disappear.

The sound of footsteps approaching made you both pull away, reluctantly. “You’re incorrigible,” you muttered, trying to hide the heat creeping up your neck.

Yechan smirked, his voice low and teasing. “Just getting started.”

Later that day, as the group hung out by the beach, you couldn’t help but find moments to steal away with Yechan.

There was something intoxicating about the way he would catch your eye, that knowing look that spoke volumes without needing to say a word.

As you sat on the sand, watching Keeho and Lara argue about something ridiculous (probably related to some new viral video trend), Yechan leaned over and whispered in your ear. “I'll race you to the water,” he challenged, his voice low, but the challenge was clear.

“Only if you promise to hold my hand the entire way,” you shot back, grinning at the playful spark in his eyes.

Yechan’s lips curved into a smile, and he grabbed your hand. “I promise.”

And just like that, you were both running toward the waves, laughing, carefree, the promise of more stolen moments between you hanging in the air.

That night, as the stars shimmered overhead and the warmth of the day slowly faded into the cool night, you sat next to Yechan on the porch, the two of you in comfortable silence.

“You know,” he started, his voice quieter than usual, “I’m glad you’re here this summer.”

You turned to face him, the playful smile from earlier replaced with something more sincere. “Me too.”

“Promise me we’ll make the most of it,” he said softly, his hand brushing against yours.

“l promise,” you whispered, your heart racing at the sincerity in his eyes.

And just like that, in the soft glow of the fading day, everything felt right. You were no longer just his brother’s best friend. You were someone special to him. And this summer-this stolen time -was just the beginning.

The days bled into nights, and with each passing hour, the line between stolen glances and stolen moments blurred until it felt like second nature. No one seemed to notice—at least, no one said anything. Keeho was oblivious, his usual antics enough to keep suspicion at bay, but you and Yechan had mastered the art of subtlety.

After a long movie night in the living room, Keeho and the others had retreated to their rooms, leaving the house quiet. The credits had barely rolled before Yechan gave you that look—the one that made your stomach flip and your pulse race.

“You staying here?” he asked, voice low as he leaned closer.

“Not a chance,” you whispered back, your lips curling into a sly smile.

It was a practiced routine by now. You’d wait a few minutes after everyone went to bed, then quietly slip out of your room and into his. The risk of getting caught only made it more exciting.

When you made it to his room that night, Yechan was waiting, the faint glow of his phone the only light in the room. He looked up as you closed the door behind you, his face breaking into a soft smile.

“Took you long enough,” he teased, his voice hushed.

You rolled your eyes, climbing onto the bed beside him. “I didn’t want Keeho to hear me.”

He chuckled, setting his phone down and pulling you into his arms. “You’re too careful. He’s clueless, trust me.”

“Still.” You rested your head on his chest, his steady heartbeat soothing the lingering tension from the day.

Yechan’s fingers traced lazy patterns on your back as he pressed a kiss to your temple. “I missed you,” he murmured, his voice barely audible.

You smiled, tilting your head to look at him. “You saw me all day.”

“Not like this,” he countered, brushing a curl away from your face. “Not when it’s just us.”

The pet names started naturally, slipping into your conversations like they’d always been there.

“Baby,” he said one night, the word rolling off his tongue so effortlessly it made you pause.

You raised an eyebrow, smirking. “Baby?”

He shrugged, grinning. “What? It suits you.” He then adds in a sultry tone, “You didn’t mind it that night.”

“You’re ridiculous,” you said, though the warmth in your chest betrayed your words.

“Admit it,” he teased, his fingers tilting your chin up. “You like it.”

You didn’t answer, but the smile you gave him was all the confirmation he needed.

The nights were filled with whispered conversations, soft kisses, and quiet promises. Yechan would hold you close, his hand always finding yours, his words laced with a vulnerability that made your heart ache in the best way.

“You know,” he said one night, his voice a soft rumble against your ear, “I don’t think I’ve ever felt like this before.”

You looked up at him, your fingers brushing over his cheek. “Like what?”

“Like I’d do anything to keep this—to keep you,” he admitted, his gaze unwavering.

Your breath hitched, the weight of his words settling over you. “You already have me,” you whispered, leaning in to press a kiss to his lips.

The nights spent sneaking into Yechan’s room were both thrilling and dangerous. Every soft laugh, every whispered name, every shared kiss felt like balancing on a knife’s edge, the thrill of almost getting caught only adding to the intoxicating pull between you. But the universe—or maybe just Keeho—was bound to catch on eventually.

It started innocently enough. The group had gathered around the living room, sprawled across couches and bean bags for another movie night. Keeho, ever the host, had gone all out with popcorn, snacks, and a carefully curated list of summer blockbusters.

You sat on the floor near Keeho, trying not to look too obvious when your gaze flickered to Yechan on the other side of the room. His smirk was subtle, but the way he stretched, his shirt lifting just slightly to reveal a sliver of skin, was not subtle.

“Eyes up here,” Keeho teased, snapping his fingers in front of your face. “You’re zoning out again. Thinking about the lifeguard?”

You rolled your eyes, snatching the bowl of popcorn from him. “Please. That ship sailed weeks ago.”

Keeho raised an eyebrow, his expression curious. “Interesting. So, who’s got your attention now?”

Before you could answer, Lara nudged Keeho. “Maybe it’s not a who. Maybe she’s just vibing, Keeho. Let her live.”

You flashed her a grateful smile, but Keeho’s gaze lingered on you a second too long, his eyes narrowing slightly as if trying to piece something together.

Later that night, as the house fell into its familiar quiet rhythm, you slipped out of your room, your steps careful on the hardwood floors. Yechan’s door was already cracked open, his shadow moving just behind it.

“You’re late,” he teased as you slid inside, closing the door behind you.

“Blame Keeho,” you muttered, flopping onto his bed. “He’s getting nosy.”

Yechan joined you, leaning back on the pillows with a soft chuckle. “He’s always nosy. Don’t let it get to you, baby.”

“He’s not stupid, Yechan,” you said, your voice quieter now. “What if he figures it out?”

Yechan reached for your hand, threading his fingers through yours. “Then he’ll figure it out. What can he do about it?” You bit your lip, unsure how to respond. But Yechan leaned closer, pressing a kiss to your temple. “Stop worrying. We’re careful.”

“Are we?” you asked, arching an eyebrow.

Yechan laughed softly, the sound warm and reassuring. “Okay, mostly careful. But, baby, I like having you here.” His voice sincere even as his kisses trail down your body.

His words melted your tension, and you found yourself smiling as your breath hitches. “I like being here.”

“So then stop worrying,” he starts, hands tugging your bottoms down, “and let me kiss you.”

The next morning, Keeho’s suspicion reached a tipping point. You and Yechan were in the kitchen, laughing over something stupid, when Keeho walked in. He stopped mid-step, his eyes darting between the two of you.

“What’s so funny?” he asked, his tone casual, but his gaze sharp.

Yechan, ever the smooth talker, shrugged. “Inside joke.”

Keeho crossed his arms, leaning against the counter. “Inside joke, huh? You two seem awfully close these days.”

You froze, but Yechan didn’t miss a beat. “We’ve lived in the same house all summer, Keeho. It’s called bonding.”

Keeho raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. “Uh-huh. Bonding.”

As the tension hung in the air, you scrambled for a distraction. “Keeho, didn’t Lara ask you to help with the shower head?”

Keeho stared at you for a moment longer before sighing. “Fine. But don’t think I’m not watching you two.”

As he walked away, Yechan let out a low whistle. “That was close.”

“Too close,” you muttered, your heart still racing.

Yechan grinned, leaning closer to press a quick kiss to your cheek. “Maybe. But worth it.”

The days following Keeho’s suspicious glance were carefully balanced. You and Yechan tried to keep your distance in public, but behind closed doors, your connection only deepened.

That night, after another group dinner, you found yourself in Yechan’s room once more. The moonlight filtering through the curtains cast soft shadows across the room as you lay tangled together on his bed.

“You know,” Yechan began, his voice barely above a whisper, “I don’t think I can keep pretending you’re just Keeho’s best friend anymore.”

You looked up at him, your fingers tracing idle patterns along his jawline. “You’re the one who wanted to keep this a secret.”

He sighed, his hand brushing over your curls. “I know. But it’s getting harder to act like I don’t care when you’re around. Especially when Keeho keeps making those dumb jokes about you and some random guy.”

A small smile tugged at your lips. “Jealous, are we?”

Yechan rolled his eyes but didn’t deny it. Instead, he pulled you closer, his lips brushing against yours in a kiss that was both soft and demanding. When he pulled away, his voice was serious.

“I just don’t want to hide this anymore,” he admitted. “Not from Keeho, not from anyone.”

The next morning, Keeho’s suspicions finally got the better of him. You’d gone to grab a drink from the kitchen, still half-asleep, when you ran into him.

“You’ve been sneaking around,” he said, his tone light but his expression calculated.

“What are you talking about?” you asked, playing dumb as you reached for the orange juice.

Keeho crossed his arms, leaning against the counter. “You and Yechan. Don’t play dumb with me.”

Your heart skipped a beat, but you kept your face neutral. “We’ve just been hanging out more. What’s the big deal?”

Keeho snorted. “Hanging out? You really expect me to believe that?”

Before you could respond, Yechan appeared in the doorway, his expression calm but his eyes sharp.

“What’s going on?” Yechan asked, his voice steady as he stepped into the kitchen.

Keeho turned to him, his gaze narrowing. “You tell me. You and my best friend seem awfully close these days.”

Yechan didn’t hesitate. “We are. And before you say anything, this isn’t some fling. I like her, Keeho. A lot.”

Keeho blinked, clearly taken aback by Yechan’s bluntness. “You’re serious?”

“Dead serious,” Yechan replied, his tone unwavering.

Keeho looked between the two of you, his expression unreadable. Finally, he let out a heavy sigh. “I can’t believe this. You couldn’t have told me sooner?”

“We wanted to,” you said quickly, stepping forward. “But we didn’t know how you’d react.”

Keeho shook his head, a small smile breaking through his stern expression. “I guess if it had to be anyone, I’m glad it’s Yechan. But you two better not make this weird for me.”

Relief flooded through you as Yechan reached for your hand, squeezing it gently.

“We’ll try our best,” Yechan said, his smirk returning.

Keeho was trying—really, he was. After the big reveal, he promised to be cool about it, but that didn’t stop him from teasing you both at every opportunity.

At breakfast one morning, he glanced up from his plate, smirking. “So, how’s my baby brother treating you? Still sneaking around, or should I expect to see PDA in my kitchen now?”

You rolled your eyes, biting into your toast. “We’re not sneaking, and no, you won’t see anything in the kitchen. Relax.”

Yechan, sitting beside you, grinned as he reached for your hand under the table. “I mean, if she wants to kiss me right now—”

“Don’t even think about it,” Keeho interrupted, his tone mock-serious.

The teasing didn’t stop there. Whenever Yechan left the room, Keeho leaned in conspiratorially. “You better not hurt him, you know.”

“I think it’s him you should be warning,” you shot back, smirking.

Keeho shook his head, laughing. “Gosh, you’re both impossible.”

With Keeho begrudgingly on board, you and Yechan had more freedom to be yourselves. The first time you held hands in front of everyone, Lara and Intak exchanged knowing smiles, but no one said anything.

On quieter nights, Yechan took you on walks along the beach. The moonlight reflected off the waves as you strolled, your fingers intertwined.

“You’re gorgeous,” he said softly one night, stopping to look at you.

“You’ve said that before,” you replied, though the warmth in your chest betrayed your nonchalance.

“Yeah, but I’ll keep saying it until you believe it.” His voice was earnest, his gaze unwavering.

Moments like these reminded you just how serious Yechan was about you. He wasn’t just playful or flirty—he was thoughtful, always paying attention to the little things that mattered most to you.

It didn’t take long for Keeho to move from begrudging acceptance to begrudging support. One afternoon, he caught Yechan helping you carry a stack of beach chairs.

“You two are disgustingly cute,” Keeho said, shaking his head.

“You’re welcome to help,” you shot back, smirking.

Keeho pretended to think about it before shrugging. “Nah, I think I’ll let Yechan handle it. Good practice for taking care of you.”

Yechan laughed, unfazed. “Better me than you.”

Keeho’s expression softened, and though he didn’t say it outright, you knew he was happy for both of you.

The smell of fresh coffee drifted through the air, mixing with the saltiness of the ocean breeze that slipped through the open windows. You were sprawled out on the living room couch, legs tucked beneath you, scrolling idly on your phone while the morning sun warmed the hardwood floors.

Yechan emerged from the hallway, hair mussed from sleep and hoodie hanging off one shoulder. He yawned dramatically, ruffling his hair as he spotted you.

“You’re up early,” he said, padding toward the kitchen.

“It’s almost noon,” you replied without looking up, a smile tugging at your lips.

“Details,” he mumbled, pouring himself a cup of coffee. He leaned against the counter, mug in hand, watching you. “What’s the plan for today?”

You shrugged. “Keeho’s still asleep, and Intak went for a run. No one’s made any grand declarations about fun yet.”

He chuckled, setting his mug down and wandering over to you. Without a word, he flopped onto the couch beside you, making the cushions sink dramatically.

“Do you mind?” you teased, nudging him with your elbow.

“Not at all,” he replied, draping an arm over the back of the couch, dangerously close to your shoulders. “This is my house, after all.”

You rolled your eyes but didn’t move away. There was something calming about mornings like this—no rush, no plans, just the easy rhythm of summer days.

Yechan picked up the remote and started flipping through channels, settling on a random cooking show. You raised an eyebrow.

“Seriously? A cooking show?”

“It’s relaxing,” he said simply, settling deeper into the cushions.

A comfortable silence stretched between you, broken only by the soft hum of the TV and the occasional clink of his mug as he sipped his coffee.

It wasn’t an extraordinary moment by any means, but something about it felt significant—like these quiet, unremarkable mornings were what you’d miss the most when summer came to an end.

“You’re staring,” Yechan said suddenly, turning his head to smirk at you.

“Am not,” you lied, your cheeks heating.

“Sure, baby,” he teased, leaning closer. “Whatever you say.”

And just like that, the lazy morning dissolved into playful banter, laughter echoing through the house as the waves crashed softly in the distance.

Yechan was in the middle of flipping through the channels again when Lara appeared at the foot of the stairs, a towel wrapped around her head and an unmistakable gleam of mischief in her eyes.

“Good morning, lovebirds,” she said, smirking as she plopped down on the arm of the couch.

“Morning,” you replied, ignoring the nickname.

Yechan just raised an eyebrow. “What’s with the look?”

“I have a brilliant idea,” she declared, clapping her hands together. “Girls’ spa day. No boys allowed.”

You perked up immediately. “Ooh, I’m in!”

“Wait, what?” Yechan interjected, sitting up straighter. “What do you mean, no boys allowed?”

“Exactly what I said,” Lara replied smoothly. “You and Keeho can go entertain yourselves. Maybe bond over some manly beach volleyball or something.”

“Manly volleyball?” he repeated with mock offense.

Lara ignored him, turning back to you. “We’ll do face masks, manicures, pedicures—the whole thing. I brought my favourite scrubs and serums. It’s going to be amazing.”

“I love this idea already,” you said, grinning.

Yechan groaned dramatically, flopping back against the couch. “This is discrimination.”

“You’ll live,” Lara shot back, pulling you up from the couch. “Come on, let’s set up. We can use the upstairs bathroom—it has the best lighting.”

You shot Yechan a smug look as you followed Lara toward the stairs.

“You’re abandoning me for some cucumbers and lotion?” he called after you, feigning betrayal.

“Cucumbers and lotion are way more relaxing than you,” you retorted, sticking your tongue out at him.

He opened his mouth to respond, but Lara cut him off with a firm, “Bye, Yechan!”

As the two of you disappeared upstairs, you heard him mutter under his breath, “Keeho better be awake, or I’m stealing Intak’s snacks.”

The upstairs bathroom had been transformed into a makeshift spa—candles lined the sink, their soft glow adding a calming ambiance to the room. The faint smell of lavender filled the air, mixing with the sound of bubbly laughter and running water as Lara set up a foot soak near the tub.

“You know,” Lara said, carefully pouring essential oils into the basin, “we should really thank Keeho for being so oblivious. If he’d paid closer attention to you and Yechan before this summer, he might’ve ruined everything.”

You laughed, sitting cross-legged on a towel by the sink while applying a face mask. “Honestly? He was way too focused on clowning me for my crush to notice the real shift.”

Lara smirked, placing a cucumber slice over each eye and leaning back against the tub. “It’s wild how things can change so fast, though. One minute you’re pining over Yechan like a lovesick puppy, and now you’re actually with him.”

You paused for a moment, her words sinking in. It had happened quickly—those stolen moments, playful confessions, and now this full-fledged relationship. It felt surreal. “Yeah, but I’m still kind of getting used to it,” you admitted, fiddling with the edge of your towel. “I mean, it’s Yechan. I never thought he’d see me like… this.”

Lara opened one eye and peeked at you. “Are you kidding? You’re gorgeous. The rest of us have known this for years. He’d have to be blind not to notice.”

You smiled at her encouragement, but your thoughts wandered. “It’s just weird, you know? Like, I’ve spent so much time liking him, and now I have to shift into being with him. What if I mess it up?”

Lara sat up, pulling off the cucumber slices and placing a hand on your shoulder. “Girl, stop. You’re not going to mess it up. Yechan adores you—anyone can see that. And if you start overthinking, that’s what I’m here for.”

You chuckled softly. “Thanks, Lara. You’re the best.”

“Of course, I am,” she said dramatically, leaning back again. “Now, let’s talk about the important stuff. Like… how the hell did Keeho take it when you guys told him?”

You burst out laughing, the memory of Keeho’s reaction replaying in your mind. “Oh, he acted like the world was ending. Said he didn’t need the mental image of his best friend and his brother being all ‘disgustingly cute.’”

“Classic Keeho,” Lara said, rolling her eyes.

As the spa day continued, the conversation flowed between light-hearted teasing and deeper check-ins about your feelings, your relationship, and the bittersweet end of summer looming over you. By the time you finished, your face was glowing, your nails freshly painted, and your heart a little lighter.

And as you sat there, basking in the warmth of your friendship, you realized that moments like these—filled with love and laughter—were the glue holding your world together.

Lara leaned back against the tub, her face mask now slightly cracked as it dried. She peeked at you with a smirk. “What do you think the boys are doing right now?”

You shrugged, swirling your fingers in the warm water of your foot soak. “Probably talking about sports or something equally boring.”

Lara snorted. “Knowing Keeho, he’s probably ranting about something dumb Yechan did. Those two are chaos when they’re together.”

You laughed, imagining the scene downstairs. “I wouldn’t be surprised if Keeho’s trying to lecture Yechan about me. He’s been feigning disgust since the moment he found out.”

Lara raised an eyebrow, grinning. “Oh, 100%. If we’re quiet, we might even hear it.”

Downstairs, Keeho was leaning back on the couch, arms crossed over his chest as he gave Yechan a pointed look. Intak sat beside him, amused but staying out of the conversation—for now.

“You’re disgusting,” Keeho declared dramatically, his face scrunched up like he’d just smelled something foul.

Yechan, sitting cross-legged on the floor with a bowl of chips in his lap, didn’t even flinch. He simply popped another chip into his mouth and grinned. “Why? Because your best friend prefers me to you?”

“That’s not even—” Keeho threw his hands up in frustration. “Gosh, Yechan, I don’t need to know what you two are up to in your room or anywhere else in this house!”

Intak burst out laughing, leaning forward. “Wait, what?”

Yechan leaned back casually, shooting a cocky look at Keeho. “Just letting her know how much I’m into her. Nothing major.”

Keeho groaned, burying his face in his hands. “Why do you say things like that? You’re ruining my life.”

“She started it,” Yechan said defensively, his grin never wavering. “Besides, aren’t you supposed to be happy for us? She’s your best friend, after all.”

Keeho peeked through his fingers, glaring at his younger brother. “I was happy. But now I’m haunted. Haunted, Yechan.”

Intak shook his head, laughing. “Keeho, you’re so dramatic. You’re lucky they’re even tolerating you in their lives.”

Keeho gestured wildly toward Yechan. “Tolerating him is the issue!”

Yechan shrugged, popping another chip into his mouth. “Sounds like a you problem.”

Keeho opened his mouth to retort, but Intak cut him off, grinning. “Alright, alright, let’s take bets. How long do we think it’ll take before Keeho accidentally walks in on you guys?”

Keeho froze, his face going pale. “Nope. Nope. That’s not happening. Not in my house.”

Yechan smirked, standing up and brushing chip crumbs off his hands. “We’ll see.”

With your faces glowing from masks and your nails painted a soft pastel, you and Lara leaned back against the bathroom wall, the spa supplies scattered around you. The lavender-scented candles flickered low as the afternoon sun streamed through the window.

“That was exactly what I needed,” Lara said, stretching her legs out. “Ten out of ten, would recommend.”

You nodded, admiring your freshly painted toes. “We should make this a weekly thing. Self-care is a necessity.”

Lara smirked and nudged you with her foot. “Speaking of self-care, how’s the girlfriend role? New territory, huh?”

You smiled shyly, fiddling with a loose thread on the towel draped over your lap. “It’s good. Really good, actually. I feel... safe with him, you know? Like, all the pining wasn’t for nothing.”

Lara hummed thoughtfully. “That’s sweet. But seriously, he better treat you like the queen you are. Otherwise, he’ll have me and Keeho to answer to.”

You laughed at the thought of Keeho trying to play the overprotective brother role. “Keeho’s more likely to send me back into Yechan’s arms just to avoid hearing me talk about it.”

Lara grinned, standing up and stretching. “True. Let’s go see what the guys are up to. If Keeho’s not ranting about something, I’ll be shocked.”

Keeho was pacing the living room, gesticulating wildly as Intak reclined on the couch, completely unbothered. Yechan sat cross-legged on the floor, snacking on a bag of pretzels with a smug look on his face.

“I just—ugh! Why can’t you guys be normal?” Keeho exclaimed, throwing his hands in the air.

“Define normal,” Yechan said, tilting his head innocently.

“Not whatever this is!” Keeho shot back, glaring at his younger brother. “She’s my best friend and you’re my brother. There are rules against this kind of thing!”

Intak chuckled, tossing a pillow at Keeho to calm him down. “Relax, dude. They’re adults. Besides, it’s kind of cute, don’t you think?”

Keeho froze, staring at Intak like he’d just sprouted a second head. “Cute? CUTE? That’s my house you’re talking about!”

Yechan smirked, standing up and brushing crumbs off his shirt. “Don’t worry, hyung. We’ll make sure to keep it PG for your delicate sensibilities.”

Before Keeho could launch into another tirade, the sound of footsteps descending the stairs caught everyone’s attention.

You and Lara walked into the living room, immediately noticing the energy shift. Yechan’s gaze found yours instantly, his smirk softening into a fond smile. Without a word, he crossed the room and pulled you into a loose hug, tucking you against his side.

“Hey, baby,” he murmured, his voice low and warm.

“Hey,” you replied, tilting your head up to meet his eyes.

Lara and Intak exchanged a knowing look, both of them grinning like proud parents.

“Would you look at them?” Lara said, nudging Intak. “It’s like a rom-com in real life.”

“So cute,” Intak agreed, clasping his hands together in mock adoration.

Keeho groaned loudly, flopping onto the couch in defeat. “You’re all insufferable. Every single one of you.”

Yechan glanced over his shoulder, shooting Keeho a cheeky grin. “Love you too, bro.”

You laughed, pressing a quick kiss to Yechan’s cheek. “Thanks for tolerating us, Kee.”

Keeho covered his face with a pillow. “I regret introducing you two. I really do.”

The room filled with laughter, the kind of easy, warm sound that only came from people who genuinely cared for each other. Despite Keeho’s protests, it was clear he was happy for you both—even if he’d never admit it.

The late afternoon sun cast a golden glow over the beach as you sat near the water, chatting with Ethan. He was laid-back, as usual, leaning on his elbows in the sand and cracking jokes that had you laughing.

“You know,” Ethan said, grinning, “Yechan’s a lucky guy. If I didn’t know better, I’d say he should keep an eye on me.”

You chuckled, shaking your head. “He doesn’t have to worry. You’re not exactly my type, Ethan.”

“Ouch,” Ethan replied, clutching his chest in mock offense. “But fair. Still, can’t blame a guy for trying to make you laugh.”

Unbeknownst to you, Yechan had just arrived with his friends, his gaze locking onto you and Ethan immediately. The casual smile on his face faltered as he watched Ethan lean in closer, gesturing animatedly.

“Who’s that?” Sungil asked, nudging him.

“Ethan,” Yechan said curtly, already making his way across the sand.

You noticed Yechan before Ethan did, the stormy look in his eyes making your heart skip. He didn’t look angry—more annoyed, territorial even.

“Hey,” Yechan greeted, his voice calm but firm as he stopped next to you.

Ethan looked up, completely unfazed by Yechan’s presence. “Yo, Yechan. We were just talking about you. She’s been singing your praises, man.”

You gave Ethan a look that screamed not helping, but he just smirked, unbothered.

Yechan crossed his arms, his tone casual but laced with an edge. “Good to know. But I think we’re good here, Ethan”

Ethan raised his hands in surrender, getting to his feet. “Alright, alright. I’ll let you two have your moment. See you around.”

As Ethan walked off, you stood, brushing the sand off your legs. “What was that about?”

Yechan tilted his head, his gaze lingering on you. “I didn’t like the way he was looking at you.”

“He wasn’t doing anything,” you said, biting back a smile. “Besides, I told him I’m with you.”

“That doesn’t mean I have to like it,” Yechan replied, stepping closer. His voice softened, but there was still a possessive edge. “You’re mine.”

His words sent a shiver down your spine, and before you could think twice, you grabbed his hand. “Come with me.”

The house was empty when you pulled Yechan inside, the distant sounds of the ocean fading as the door closed behind you. You led him to the living room, turning to face him with a raised eyebrow.

“Possessive much?” you teased, though your tone was playful.

Yechan didn’t answer immediately. Instead, he cupped your face, his touch gentle but insistent. “You drive me crazy, you know that?”

“Good,” you whispered, your heart racing.

The tension between you snapped like a taut string, and he kissed you, his lips capturing yours in a way that was both tender and desperate. You melted into him, his arms wrapping around you as if to prove his earlier point: you were his, and he wasn’t letting anyone forget it.

Yechan’s eyes darkened, his lips quirking into a smug smirk. “I think you need a reminder of who you belong to.”

Your breath caught, and though your heart raced, you raised an eyebrow, feigning nonchalance. “Maybe just a little one.”

That was all the encouragement he needed. His hands gripped your waist, pulling you flush against him as his lips claimed yours again. There was no hesitation, no shyness—only raw, simmering energy that built with every touch.

The kitchen was quiet save for the sound of your rapid breathing and the soft rustle of clothing. The counters became a makeshift barricade, your hands clutching the edge as Yechan’s kisses trailed along your jawline, your neck, and back to your lips.

“Yechan,” you murmured, your voice breathless.

“Shh,” he whispered against your skin. “Let me take care of you.”

Keeho and Intak walked in first, carrying bags of takeout, with Lara trailing behind. Keeho’s eyes narrowed immediately as he glanced between you and Yechan.

Yechan had you caged against the counter, his lips and hands leaving a trail of heat that made your knees weak. The moment was stolen, dangerous, and utterly addicting—until the sound of the front door swinging open shattered it.

“Hey, we’re—” Keeho’s voice cut off mid-sentence.

You and Yechan froze like guilty teenagers, hastily pulling apart as Keeho stepped into the kitchen with a bag of takeout in hand. His expression quickly shifted to one of pure disgust as his eyes darted between the two of you.

“Gross!” he exclaimed, setting the bag down with exaggerated care. “We eat in here, you animals!”

Yechan, completely unbothered, turned to Keeho with the faintest smirk. “Hm, what a coincidence…That’s exactly what I was trying to do.”

Your jaw dropped, and a gasp of mortified laughter escaped you as you swatted at his arm. “Yechan!”

Keeho groaned dramatically, covering his face. “I can’t believe I have to deal with this in my own house. You two are the worst.”

“We’re in love, Keeho,” Yechan teased, slinging an arm around your shoulders as you tried to shrink into the floor.

“Well, take your love somewhere that isn’t near the utensils!” Keeho snapped, grabbing the bag of takeout and stomping toward the dining room.

As soon as he was out of earshot, Yechan leaned down, whispering in your ear. “Totally worth it.”

You glared at him, but the traitorous smile tugging at your lips ruined the effect. “You’re insufferable.”

“And you love it,” he shot back, stealing a quick kiss before pulling you toward the dining room.

The dining room was alight with laughter and chatter, though Keeho couldn’t let go of what he’d walked in on earlier.

“You know,” he began, pointing a fork at Yechan, “there are so many rooms in this house. Why, oh why, did you think the kitchen was the place to—ugh, I can’t even finish the sentence.”

Yechan leaned back in his chair, utterly unbothered, as he popped a fry into his mouth. “It’s convenient. Close to snacks.”

Keeho nearly choked. “I hate you.”

You buried your face in your hands, trying not to laugh. “Can we please change the subject?”

“Oh, no,” Keeho said, shaking his head. “You don’t get to escape this. You’re just as guilty.”

“Guilty of being irresistible,” Yechan added cheekily, leaning over to nudge you.

You groaned, kicking him lightly under the table. “You’re not helping.”

“Not trying to,” Yechan replied with a wink.

Lara, seated across from you, was barely holding it together, her shoulders shaking with laughter. “This is the best dinner conversation I’ve had all week,” she managed to say.

“Glad you’re entertained,” you muttered, though you couldn’t hide the smile tugging at your lips.

Keeho dropped his fork dramatically, leaning back in his chair with a sigh. “I can’t believe my best friend and my brother are like this. It’s like watching a rom-com I never signed up for.”

Intak, who had been quietly enjoying his food, finally chimed in. “You’re just mad you’re not the star of the show, Keeho.”

“Exactly,” Yechan agreed, smirking. “Let us have our moment.”

Keeho glared at him, but there was no real heat behind it. “Fine. But I’m putting a lock on the kitchen door.”

Yechan was sprawled out on his bed, the glow of the evening sun painting the room in soft orange hues. The beach house was unusually quiet; Keeho and the others were outside finishing up a game of volleyball, and you had slipped away to shower after a long swim.

He glanced at his phone, debating whether to text you. It wasn’t like you weren’t already his, but there was something about the casual freedom of summer that made him crave you more—your laugh, your playful teasing, the way you’d sneak into his space like you belonged there.

The door creaked open slightly, and before he even looked, he knew it was you. You were freshly showered, towel on your head, wearing one of his hoodies that practically swallowed you whole.

“Baby,” he murmured, his voice low and slightly raspy. He reached for you, fingers curling in the air like a silent plea.

You raised an eyebrow at the tone but stepped closer anyway, a teasing smile playing on your lips. “Aww. Feeling needy, Yechan?”

“Always,” he admitted shamelessly, grabbing your hand and tugging you down onto the bed with him. “Come here.”

You landed with a soft thud, half-laughing, half-protesting. “You’re ridiculous.”

“And you love it,” he said, wrapping his arms around you and burying his face in your neck

You sighed, the tension melting out of your body as you sank into his embrace. “I do,” you admitted, running your fingers through his hair. “But you’re lucky Keeho’s not around. He’d never let us live this down.”

Yechan smirked against your skin. “Let him try. You’re mine, baby.”

For a moment, the world outside ceased to exist, leaving just the two of you tangled up in the warmth of each other, a secret summer love that felt infinite.

The late afternoon sun filtered through the linen curtains, casting golden streaks across Yechan’s room. You were tucked under his arm, his hoodie draped loosely over you, and the sound of distant waves carried in through the open window.

Yechan hadn’t said much since you came in. His usual playful quips and teasing remarks were absent, replaced by quiet sighs and the steady rise and fall of his chest. You tilted your head to look up at him, noticing the way his gaze lingered on the ceiling, distant and contemplative.

“What’s on your mind?” you asked softly, breaking the silence.

He glanced down at you, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “You.”

“Smooth.” You nudged him lightly, but your teasing didn’t carry the usual bite.

“I mean it,” he murmured, his voice a little heavier than usual. “It’s just… This summer feels like it’s slipping through my fingers. And the thought of going back to my regular life without you there—it’s messing with me.”

You swallowed hard, his words hitting closer to home than you expected. You’d been trying not to think about the end of summer, about the inevitable distance that would separate you.

“I’m not going anywhere,” you said, lacing your fingers with his.

“I know,” he said quietly, his thumb brushing over your knuckles. “But it won’t be the same. I like this. Us, here. No Keeho hovering, no schedules, just… you and me.”

For a moment, neither of you spoke, the weight of his words settling in. The beach house had become a bubble, shielding your relationship from the real world, and you both knew it couldn’t last forever.

“Yechan,” you whispered, drawing his attention back to you. “This? It doesn’t end when summer does. We’ll figure it out.”

He exhaled deeply, as though your words offered him the reassurance he needed. “Promise?”

“Promise,” you said, sealing it with a soft kiss.

And as he pulled you closer, the two of you tangled together in the golden light, you knew that while the summer might be finite, what you shared was anything but.

The house felt quieter as the summer drew to a close, the days growing shorter and the looming reality of returning to college creeping in. Yechan was in his room packing when Gabby dropped by with a farewell gift for everyone—a framed group photo they’d taken on the beach.

“Knock, knock,” she called, stepping inside. Yechan glanced up and smiled faintly.

“Hey, Gabby.”

She handed him the frame, her expression soft. “For you. Something to remember us by until next time.”

“Thanks.” He set the frame carefully on his desk, letting his gaze linger on it. His friends were mid-laugh in the photo, and there you were—standing close to him, your smile as bright as the sun behind you.

Gabby plopped onto the edge of his bed, watching him carefully. “You’ve been quiet lately. Everything okay?”

Yechan sighed, sitting down next to her. “Yeah. Just… a lot on my mind.”

Gabby smirked knowingly. “Let me guess. It’s her, isn’t it?”

He didn’t respond right away, staring at the photo instead. “She’s going back with Keeho to their college. And I’ll be hours away.”

Gabby’s voice softened. “You’ll figure it out. If anyone can make it work, it’s you two. The way you look at her, Yechan… it’s like the rest of the world disappears.”

Yechan laughed lightly, shaking his head. “I didn’t think it’d hit me this hard. I guess I’m just not ready to say goodbye.”

“Then don’t,” Gabby said simply, nudging him. “It’s not goodbye—it’s just ‘see you later.’”

He gave her a small smile, his heart feeling slightly lighter. As Gabby left, he turned back to the frame and made a silent promise to himself. No matter how far apart you’d be, he wouldn’t let the distance come between you.

The evening was painted in hues of soft orange and lavender as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the water. You and Yechan had escaped the rest of the group after dinner, retreating to your favourite spot on the porch swing overlooking the beach. The air was warm, the sound of waves lapping at the shore providing the perfect soundtrack to your shared silence.

Yechan sat close, his arm draped casually over your shoulders, but there was a tension beneath his calm demeanour. He’d been quiet all day, his usual cheeky remarks replaced with thoughtful glances and soft smiles.

“I can’t believe summer’s over,” you said, breaking the silence.

“Yeah,” he replied, his voice barely above a whisper.

You turned to look at him, your heart clenching at the way his gaze lingered on you—like he was memorizing every detail. “Yechan,” you said softly, “what’s wrong?”

He hesitated, then reached for your hand, lacing his fingers with yours. “I just… I don’t want this to end. Us.”

Your chest tightened at his confession, the vulnerability in his voice cutting through you. “It doesn’t have to,” you said, squeezing his hand. “We’ll figure it out.”

He leaned closer, resting his forehead against yours. “You make it sound so easy.”

“Because it is,” you whispered, your fingers brushing against his cheek. “I’m not letting you go, Yechan.”

His lips found yours in a kiss that was both tender and desperate, as if he was pouring every unsaid word and unspoken fear into it. The world seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of you beneath the starlit sky.

When you finally pulled away, his hands cradling your face, he smiled—a real, unguarded smile that lit up his entire face. “I love you,” he murmured, the words tumbling out like a promise.

“I love you too,” you replied, your voice steady despite the emotions swirling inside you.

As the night stretched on, you stayed wrapped in each other’s arms, sharing whispered promises of late-night calls, spontaneous visits, and a love strong enough to withstand the distance. It wasn’t goodbye—it was just the start of a new chapter.

The final morning at the beach house came far too quickly. The air was filled with a bittersweet mix of nostalgia and anticipation for what lay ahead. Bags were packed, the house cleaned, and the group moved sluggishly, reluctant to say goodbye to the summer haven that had brought so many memories.

Keeho, Intak, and Lara were busy loading the car, chatting and laughing about the upcoming semester, while you lingered on the porch with Yechan.

“You’re really leaving, huh?” Yechan said softly, his gaze fixed on the horizon.

You, leaning against the railing beside him, turned your head to look at him. “You say that like I’m never coming back,” you teased, but there was a flicker of sadness in your eyes.

“It feels like it,” he murmured, finally meeting your gaze. “Opposite schools, opposite schedules… It’s not going to be easy.”

“Nothing worth it ever is,” you replied, taking his hand in yours. His thumb traced gentle circles on your skin, grounding you in the moment.

He let out a shaky laugh. “Why do you always have to say the perfect thing?”

“Because I mean it, Yechan” you said, stepping closer. “I know this summer wasn’t perfect, but I wouldn’t trade a second of it. And I’m not going to let a few miles stop me from being with you. I love you.”

The weight of your words stole his breath, and tears pricked at the corners of his eyes. “I love you too, baby.” He pulled you into a tight embrace, burying his face in your curls.

“We’ll make it work. I’ll call, text, visit every chance I get. You’re stuck with me, okay?” You promised.

“Okay,” he whispered, clinging to you.

A sharp whistle interrupted the moment, and you turned to see Keeho leaning out of the car window. “Hurry up, lovebirds! Some of us actually want to get back to school on time!”

Yechan rolled his eyes but didn’t let go of you. “He’s so dramatic,” he muttered.

“I think it runs in the family,” you teased, earning a chuckle.

With a final kiss, Yechan reluctantly pulled away. “Go. I’ll see you soon, right?”

“Right,” you said, your voice steadier now.

As you climbed into the car with the others, you glanced back to see Yechan standing on the porch, his hands shoved into his pockets, watching you leave. The car pulled away, and though the distance between you grew, the bond you’d built over the summer felt unbreakable.

A week later, as you settled back into college life, your phone buzzed with a message.

Yechan: Miss you so much already. Let’s plan a weekend soon. I’ve got some ideas. You smiled, your heart fluttering as you typed back. You: Miss you too. Just tell me when.

Long distance might not be easy, but for the first time in a long time, you felt certain it would be worth it.

The summer had been transformative, filled with memories that would carry you through the challenges of the months ahead. As the days turned into weeks, you and Yechan settled into a rhythm that kept the spark of your relationship alive.

Texts became your lifeline, filled with inside jokes, sweet nothings, and playful reminders of your time at the beach house. Video calls were reserved for late nights when the world felt quieter, and his voice became a soothing balm for the distance.

Your first weekend visit was everything you hoped for: stolen kisses, shared meals, and whispered plans for the future. It wasn’t the same as being together every day, but it was enough.

The beach house, once the setting of your secret summer romance, became a symbol of something bigger—a relationship built on trust, laughter, and a connection that refused to fade.

Keeho, though still occasionally annoyed by your PDA, eventually gave in to the inevitable. “As long as you two keep it out of the kitchen,” he’d grumble, but the fondness in his eyes betrayed him.

And as you walked across campus one crisp autumn day, your phone buzzed with a picture: Yechan standing on the beach, holding up a handwritten sign.

“Counting the days until we’re back here together.”

Smiling, you typed back a quick reply.

“Me too, Yechan. Me too.”

Because no matter where life took you, you knew that summer was only the beginning of your story.

The End.

#82major fluff

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#82major fluff