A/N: I wanted to write something in the spirit of back-to-school season since I will be heading back next week. :( If you've already started or if you're starting soon, best of luck with your semester!
TW: Reader is gossiped about
Pairing: Dami x Reader (platonic to implied romantic)
Summary: Your life in college has been nothing but empty rumors and failed promises. The introduction of a new seat mate changes how you view the people around you, and how they view you in return.
Sugarcoat, I cast off
Whatever you say about me
Being reserved made you mysterious, and mystery caused rumors to cloud around your everyday movement and activities. Your dating life tended to be the worst of them all as classmates and co-workers alike would often pin you to be a player or completely uninterested in everything. You simply wished to sit next to someone and not see them lean over to talk to someone else.
So, you kept in your shell and kept to yourself. People didn’t need to know anything more about you then you would tell-
“Can I sit here?”
A warm, deep voice snaps you out of your thoughts.
“Sure.”
You gently observe the brown-haired woman who sits next to you. Intro to Philosophy, a social studies credit for your major, would prove to be more interesting than you thought. You notice that she pulls out a laptop that is well-endowed with stickers on the back.
“I like the stickers on your laptop.” You quietly say as your professor enters the classroom.
“Thanks. They’re just from different shows and musicians that I like.” She pauses for a moment as you continue to observe the different logos and characters on them. “Would you be interested in a tour?”
A light smile appears on your face - a rarity in class, especially by another person.
“I’d like that.”
Just move, as I want
Dancing for myself
“You take dance classes?” You ask you spot her daily schedule as the background on the computer. “Sorry, that was invasive and weird-“
“It’s just once a week with a close group of friends.” Dami explains before opening a browser to prepare materials for today’s class. “What about you? Any remarkable interests?”
“Nothing that you haven’t heard from others before, I’m sure-“
“I’d much rather make my observations in-person rather than by rumors.”
“I-“ You pause as a slight bout of embarrassment crosses your features. “I think that’s the first time someone’s spoken to me instead of about me.”
“It’s a shame, really,” Dami glances at you before the professor starts class, “they’re missing out on a great person.”
Another first happens within two weeks - someone manages to make your heartbeat quicken.
Don’t sugarcoat me, baby
Complex is over-rated
You like to simplify the world around you - it makes your life so much simpler. The grass is green, the sky is blue, and you most definitely have feelings for the mysterious yet kind girl who goes out of her way to always sit next to you or save you a seat whenever you have class.
You think that she’s caught on to your feelings as her hand lingers on yours when she’s looking at your computer or how her eyes catch yours when the professor goes off-topic every class period.
“You’re strange,” You comment as your professor talks about their dog again, “but I don’t mind.”
“Me?” Dami chuckles softly. “I think that’s the first time someone’s said that to my face.”
A light smile plays on your features as you notice your classmates aren’t paying you any mind - it’s so relaxing to know that you’re not under the microscope of your peers.
“I like that you’re strange, you’re like me,” You pause to still your beating heart, “but I was wondering if you’d like to get lunch sometime?”
“With you?” A warm, inviting smile stays on her face. “Absolutely.”
Lee Yubin (Dami) - Dreamcatcher (requested to be anonymous)
~~~
"Yah, who said you could dress up like this?" You squeaked out, staring at your girlfriend in fascination and surprise.
She looked over at you and tilted her head in fake confusion. "I thought you wanted me to wear this...?" She responded in a fake low voice.
You blinked once.
Twice.
A third time.
"Please don't don't that again."
She pouted and fluffed out her hair in annoyance. And when she looked away from you, you jumped in front of her quickly. "Hey."
At your call she glanced up for a second, wondering what you wanted. In turn you cupped her cheeks and kissed her softly on the lips, feeling her relaxing against your body. She then rested her hands on your waist and bunched the fabric of your shirt up a bit, pulling you closer. You took a moment to pull away from her, and smiled softly at her surprised expression.
You then kissed her on her nose, trailing tint pecks tocher cheek, and going up to leave a long and lingering kiss to her forehead. "I can't get enough of you looking like this. Talking like that is just gonna set me over the edge." You explained softly, kissing her lightly on the lips one last time.
She giggled at you and kissed you once more, releasing you to step towards the door. "Good to know. I'll use that to my advantage today. Love you!" She called out while stepping through the front door.
A/N: Hi guys, girls, and non-binary pearls! I hope you’re having a good start to this new year! I hope for love and happiness to guide all of us through 2022, no matter what this year may bring. 💕 Besides, is there a better way to start the year than with a Dami fic? I think not.
TW: Anxieties about the new year, fluffy fluff
You thought that this year was supposed to be your year, but apparently you were very wrong.
After the start of the new year, you were overloaded with multiple projects that were due within a short period of time. Two of your closest friends were fighting with each other, and to top it off, your parents wanted you to help renovate your childhood home. The stress from all of those things was enough to make you cry, and that’s exactly what you did when you got home.
As soon as the door shuts behind you, the tears fall rapidly out of your eyes. Sniffling, you set your belongings down in the kitchen and shuffle into your living room. All you wanted to do was run into your bedroom and hide under your blankets until the sun came up; instead, a familiar face sits in your living room.
Dami carefully watches the television in front of her while idly playing with her hands.
I forgot that I invited her over today. Maybe I can sneak into my bedroom and…
“Hey, you’re home early. I was going to order food from somewhere, but I wasn't sure what you wanted.” Your girlfriend’s calming voice reaches your ears, but you don’t comprehend her words.
“Whatever sounds good to you, Dami. I’m not picky.” You mumble while looking at the ground.
“Are you alright, love?” Dami’s voice sounds closer, but she still feels miles away from you.
“I’m fine.” You mumble as Dami lightly places her hand on your cheek.
You allow her to tilt your chin up to where your eyes meet. Another tear runs down your face, and Dami carefully brushes it away with her thumb.
Her spare arm wraps around your waist, and you lean into her comforting presence.
“What’s wrong?” Dami asks softly after a moment of silence.
“I’m just so… overwhelmed by everything that has to be done.” You admit.
“Can I help?”
“You could try.” A light smile appears on your face, and a matching one graces Dami’s face.
You lean into her more, and you allow for her warmth to surround you as her other arm leaves your face and settles around your waist. Suddenly, everything seems to matter just a little bit less now.
“Can we do that later, though? I just want to relax and spend some time with my amazing girlfriend.” You gently pull back from her.
“Sounds good to me.” Dami’s hand slips into yours, and she guides you to the living room.
After you sit down on the couch, she grabs a nearby blanket for the two of you.
You cuddle closer to her under the blanket as the TV plays one of your favorite movies. The familiarity of everything calms you, and soon your beating heart is put to rest as you drift into a peaceful and quiet sleep with the one you love the most.
A/N: Hello guys, girls, and non-binary pearls! Long time no see. Well, I felt like this was the right time to publish this work. I couldn’t just leave something like this to sit in a doc for months. Enjoy the sweet reward of my labor!
TW: Violence, alcohol, guns, food, some suggestive (?) themes, slowburn, attempted use of Southern slang, This is a LONG fic and I was too lazy to edit all of it 😂
The first time you met the mysterious gunslinger, it was just like a scene out of one of those children’s books that Ms. Betty used to read to you when you were little.
You were working your usual shift at the saloon where you and the only other girl in town your age, Gahyeon, worked as bartenders. It was a slow day, with nothing more than the usuals having a drink or two so they could get out of the scorching afternoon sun. You and Gahyeon had taken up the occupation of gossiping to make the shift go faster; however, furiously fanning yourself and talking up a storm made no difference as the sun remained high in the sky.
“Awful weather, isn’t it?” Gahyeon pants before grabbing the pitcher of water.
“Do you expect anything else from August? I heard that the next town over is ten degrees warmer.” You accept the cold glass of water from Gahyeon and quickly chug it down.
“At least we’re not them, but this is not much better.” Gahyeon presses her face against the pitcher of cold water as you grab a washcloth and begin to wash the bar counter off.
“God, you’re trying to do work in this weather?” Gahyeon stares at you in disbelief.
“It has to be done sooner or later.” You shrug before setting the warm washcloth into the water.
“I’m pouring myself a beer after we’re done today. You in?” Gahyeon removes her face from the pitcher.
“I don’t feel like drinking tonight, but I’ll stay after with you anyways. Ms. Betty wants me to work on meeting more people.” You fiddle with part of your outfit as you talk.
“Pssh, lightweight.” Gahyeon teases as she nudges you.
“You’re one to be talking. I bet you won’t get three drinks in before you start swayin’.” You scoff softly.
“You wanna bet? Fine. I’ll do the dishes for a week if you win, but you have to give me half of your lunch for a week if I win.” Gahyeon gives you a toothy grin as she sticks her hand.
“You know that Ms. Betty would give you anything if you asked her for it.” You raise an eyebrow at her.
“Yeah, but I like what she makes you better. Anyways, are you in, or are you a chicken?” Gahyeon imitates the call of a chicken before you shake her hand.
“Deal.” You grin back at her as you furiously shake hands.
Gahyeon lets go first as she collapses back into one of the barstools. She sighs while meddling with the braid in her pink-colored hair.
“You know what I heard? There’s this new vigilante around that’s tryin’ to make a name for herself.” Gahyeon says with disinterest.
“Herself? I thought all the vigilantes around here were men with egos bigger than their appetite.”
Gahyeon laughs at your remark.
“It might not be true, but my dad says that a strange woman in all black except for an orange stripe on her hat came into the forge a week or two ago. He says that she was extremely polite as she asked him to make her a new gun.” Gahyeon continues to absentmindedly play with her braid.
“What kind of gun?” You ask with the knowledge that Gahyeon was going to go off on a tangent.
“A Colt Peacemaker. It’s a six-barrel gun that’s more effective at short range than at long range. She also carried a rifle along with some sort of hunting gun. Dad said that she looked ready to start a fight with her bare hands,” Gahyeon chuckles at her own words, “and you know what the strangest part is? He said that she had two braids runnin’ out of her hat like flowing water. I didn’t get why he kept sayin’ that until he mentioned that she had blue hair!”
“Blue hair? That’s certainly something.” You ponder the idea of a strange blue-haired woman saving townspeople and capturing bandits.
“I know, right? Dad said that her hair reminded him of blueberries, and he actually asked her if she dyed her hair with blueberries!” You both burst out laughing.
“And what’d she say?”
“She laughed and waved him off. Said something about it running in her family since the days of her ancestors,” Gahyeon smiles at the thought. “Wouldn’t it be great if our families let us do what we wanted like hers did?”
You both go silent as a soft, unbreakable sadness stretches over the two of you.
“Your dad still doesn’t let you into the forge?” You reach across and squeeze Gahyeon’s hand.
She sighs as she wipes a tear from her face.
“Says it’s not my place as a ‘proper lady’. Wonder what he would think if he knew what happened here?” Gahyeon sniffles and chuckles at the same time.
“I feel you. Ms. Betty’s been buggin’ me over and over to get married. I do my best to avoid her nowadays since that’s all she talks about. It’s like she sees me as nothing more than a thing to be given away.” You mumble as you take a seat next to Gahyeon.
She places a hand on your shoulder and rubs it softly.
“Well, we’ve got each other, right? That’s all we need.” Gahyeon gives you a sweet smile.
“Right.” You nod at her.
Ding!
The familiar sound of someone stepping through the front door sends you and Gahyeon scrambling behind the bar counter. The owners didn’t mind you relaxing when the regulars were around, but they wanted you to be ready when new guests arrived. All of the regulars had arrived for the afternoon, but this new customer was not one of them.
I wonder who that could be?
“No way…” Gahyeon mumbles in amazement.
A woman dressed in a slightly torn black dress approaches one of the spare tables in the back. Her blue braids shine bright against the hat on her head, which has definitely seen better days. As she sits, you notice the knee-high black boots that adorn her feet. She gently sets a gun of some sort on the table.
“That’s the Colt Peacemaker! I can tell my dad’s handy work from here.” Gahyeon squeals before grabbing a spare notebook.
“Why do you think she’s here? There’s nothing bad goin’ on, right?” You ask.
“Honestly, I don’t care. I’m just glad that one of my dad’s tall tales is finally true!” Gahyeon quickly grabs a pen and notebook before walking over to her table.
You choose to hang back and observe the strange woman. Her calm mannerism combined with the gentle expression on her face leaves a lasting impression on you. You noticed how her attention immediately snapped from observing her surroundings to Gahyeon when she arrived at the table. The pair chat for a moment, and then Gahyeon returns to the counter with you. You pay her no mind as you continue to gawk at the woman in front of you.
That is, until her graceful, patient gaze wanders over to you. You look at her directly as she looks you up and down before continuing to stare at the wall.
“Ooh~ I think she’s interested in you.” Gahyeon’s words pull you out of your own world.
“Hmm? Oh, I doubt it.” You sigh while grabbing another drink for a regular.
“You shouldn’t. She was askin’ about you just a moment after I took her order.” Gahyeon grabs the large glass of water that she just poured.
“Really?” Your eyes shine with excitement.
Gahyeon only winks as she carries the glass to the woman. You shake your head before doing the same to your customer.
You smile politely as you return to the bar counter. Gahyeon returns a few minutes later with a big grin on her face.
“What’re you smiling about? Got some beans to spill?” You look at Gahyeon.
“Oh, it’s nothing.” She waves you off before attending to another customer.
The afternoon quickly transitions into evening as the regulars filter in and out of the saloon. You and Gahyeon were prepared for tonight since the late night crowd could get a bit rowdy at times. The only constant besides the heat was the woman in the back.
After Gahyeon had brought her the drink, the woman grabbed a book from her pockets and began to read. She sat and read as the the day passed by the saloon.
“That’s not a thick book. She ought to be done by now.” Gahyeon says as you watch the sun behind her set into the horizon.
“There’s time to gossip about her later. We’ve got to go back inside before we get chewed out.” You stare at the missing sun for a moment before heading in after Gahyeon.
You take a moment to breathe and prepare yourself as you walk into the now-crowded saloon. People are packed in from wall to wall, and they aren’t exactly the patient type.
You and Gahyeon make a great team, as you manage to serve the majority of the customers in a decent amount of time. Besides a bit of grumbling, everyone seemed to be happy with what they got. You give Gahyeon a quick hug before the both of you turn to face the customer at the counter.
“You didn’t get my order right… I wanted whiskey, not this gin!” The drunk woman in front of you wobbles slightly before pointing an accusing finger at you.
“We’re sorry, ma’am, but we made what we heard you say. If you want another drink, we can get you another one.” Gahyeon takes a step forward.
“Nooooo… I want this one replaced!” The woman slurs before presenting her half-empty glass.
“I’m sorry, but…” Gahyeon pauses as the woman loudly shushes her.
“God, you don’t know how to please somebody like me. Maybe this’ll teach you a lesson!” The woman takes her glass and throws the remaining liquid onto Gahyeon.
Gahyeon gasps as the smell and color of gin stains her white dress with black accessories. Everyone in the saloon now has their eyes planted on you, including the woman in black from earlier.
“Ha! That improves your looks.” The drunk giggles to herself
“Oh, you little… You wanna go? C’mon! Let me show you what I’m made of!” Gahyeon rushes around the corner and grabs the woman before throwing the first punch.
The fight sprawls into hair-pulling and punches being thrown every which way. A crowd gathers around the pair as you watch in horror.
“Gahyeon!” You cry out as you hear her make a sound of intense pain.
You push your way through the crowd, only to find Gahyeon knocked out on the floor with a few injuries to her face and arms.
The woman stands up triumphantly while wiping a bit of blood off of her face.
“Do you want some next, you little rat? I know all about you and your-” The woman is interrupted by a slap on the face that came from your own hand.
She’s knocked to the ground by the impact, and everyone around you gasps before taking a step back. Gahyeon was known to get into a fight or two. You, on the other hand, wouldn’t dare harm another person with your hand unless you felt the need to.
“Get out, now.” You mumble angrily.
“But-” The familiar click of a gun interrupts the woman again.
The stranger from earlier approaches with her gun locked and loaded. It’s aimed right at the drunk woman’s head as the other woman fiddles with the trigger.
“You heard them.” She makes her way inside of the circle of people.
“I-” The drunk woman gulps as the barrel of the gun touches the back of her head.
“Move.”
The drunk woman speeds out of the saloon, and everyone else begins to clear out as well. The strange woman clicks the safety on as she holsters her gun.
You crouch down next to Gahyeon as you check her for injuries.
She doesn’t look as bad as I thought she did.
“Is there anything I can do to help?” The woman crouches next to you.
“Yeah. She lives in the apartment above here. I just need to get her up there so I can take care of her.”
“Does this happen a lot?” The woman asks as she inspects Gahyeon’s wounds.
“Too often for my own comfort.”
After managing to pull Gahyeon upstairs with some assistance by the stranger, you’re able to place Gahyeon in her before tending her wounds.
You gently scrub away any dried blood on Gahyeon’s arm before beginning to apply bandages.
“What made you interfere with the bar fight?” You turn to the woman as she looks at you.
“Figured you could use some help, but you’re a lot tougher than most of the pretty folks that I know.” She replies as she sits at the spare chair in Gahyeon’s room.
You blush softly before shaking your head.
“Ah, pretty and tough is more of Gahyeon’s thing.” You place the final bandage on her bruised arm as you begin to work on her face.
“So what’s your thing, then?” The stranger’s question causes you to pause.
“My thing? I…” You trail off while trying to think of a response, “I guess I don’t really have ‘a thing’. I’m used to stayin’ in the background and out of trouble.”
“That seems like a boring way to live.” The woman curiously inspects the vase on the table next to her.
“Well, it works just fine for me,” You respond with a bit of anger in your voice. “Not every person wants their name in flashin’ lights.”
“I didn’t mean it like that,” She shakes her head at the misunderstanding, “I just wonder if you ever thought about doing something different with your life, that’s all.”
“I have.” You mumble under your breath as you continue to fix Gahyeon up.
The woman slowly rises from her chair and walks over to the window on the other side of the room. You focus on untying the braid in Gahyeon’s hair.
“Do you look at the stars often?” The woman admires the star-filled sky in front of her.
“Yeah. Ms. Betty used to tell me stories under the night sky when I was younger. It’d help me sleep, and thinkin’ back on those memories helps me sleep now.”
“Ms. Betty?” The woman looks slightly confused, and you blush in embarrassment.
“I’m sorry, I forget that not everyone is from here. Ms. Betty is the town baker, and I’ve lived with her and her granddaughter, Handong, since my parents…” You let the words fade out of your mouth in order to avoid recalling a painful memory.
“Ah, I see.” She hums as you let out a breath of relief.
Somebody in this world knows how to not press topics that make people uncomfortable. Thank goodness…
You quietly grab a clean washcloth to set on Gahyeon’s forehead.
“Can I ask for your name? You’ve been awfully kind for a stranger that I’ve just met.” You glance at the woman at the window.
“Dami. You?”
“Y/N.” You brush a spare piece of hair out of Gahyeon’s face.
“Pretty name.” Dami strolls to the opposite side of Gahyeon’s bed.
“Thanks.” Your heart quickens and you can feel your stomach clench with nerves.
Gahyeon groans as she begins to slowly writhe around the bed. You immediately lean over her.
“Don’t move, alright? You’ll feel better if you don’t move until the morning.” You softly instruct Gahyeon.
“Mmh, sounds good.” She mumbles back before falling asleep.
You carefully clean up the rags and bandages around you. You quickly tuck Gahyeon in, and you wish her a goodnight, even though she can’t hear you. You let Dami out of the room before shutting the door. You yawn softly before running your fingers through your hair.
“Do you want me to walk you home?” Dami extended her hand to you.
“I’d like that.” You say sleepily before taking her hand in yours.
After a long stroll with such little time to talk together, you and Dami arrive at the front of the bakery.
Home…
“Thank you. I appreciate that you took the time to walk me home.” You say while unlocking the front door.
“It was all my pleasure. Goodnight, Y/N, and sweet dreams.” Dami tips her hat towards you as you begin to enter the house.
You pause for a moment as an idea pops into your head. You grab the spare loaf of bread that you forgot to eat from your satchel.
“Wait, I forgot to give you something.” You turn around and walk to Dami.
She’s patiently waiting before you hand her the bread.
“And one more thing…” You mutter breathlessly before taking action.
You gently cup her face as you press a soft kiss to her cheek. You quickly walk back to the bakery as you don’t dare to turn around. As you reach the open doorway, you turn around to face her.
Dami’s eyes carefully observe you. She lets her eyes wander up and down your body, just as she did when she first met you.
You stare at each other for a long moment before you shut the door behind you.
I might as well. It’s not like I’ll see her ever again…
~
The second time you met Dami was just as memorable as the first.
It was quite a few weeks later, yet you couldn’t push the girl out of your mind. The tension between the two of you was obvious every word spoken. Your final goodbye kiss was enough material to keep you sleepless for a few days.
Gahyeon had quickly recovered from her injuries, so she was back to working in the saloon within a few days. You told her everything that happened between you and Dami, which led to much more teasing on Gahyeon’s part.
A hot and humid August turned to a breezy and much cooler September. For the first time in a long while, you had an afternoon off from the saloon. The local county fair was in full swing, and the owners had closed down the saloon so that the locals could enjoy the festivities that were brought into town.
Normally you would be able to sneak over to the fair with Gahyeon for a night or two, but not this year.
Ms. Betty was at least a month behind on larger bakery orders, so she needed all hands on deck. You didn’t volunteer, but you didn’t have much of a choice in the matter.
“If you don’t help me, Y/N, I’ll shove you out on the streets where I found you in the first place! Now, get to work!” Ms. Betty throws the towel straight at your head.
She huffs before leaving your room and slamming the door shut. You sigh before grabbing the towel and heading downstairs.
You join Handong as the two of you begin thoroughly cleaning the dining section of the bakery.
“Hey, you two better have that place spick and span by the time we open!” Ms. Betty shouts from the back kitchen.
“Yes, Grandma!” Handong shouts back.
“Handong, dear, please make sure Y/N is doin’ enough work. She has to earn her rent, you know.”
“Yes, Grandma, don’t worry about it.” Handong shakes her head before clearing off another table.
“I’m sorry that I can’t be around more often to help you out.” You look at her sympathetically.
“I don’t blame you for not being around much, especially with the way she treats you.” Handong admits as she admires one of the floral decorations at the entrance of the shop.
“It’s alright. I do what I need to do so I can get by.” You shrug as you finish cleaning the last table.
“You must have enough money to leave, Y/N.”
“I’m gettin’ there.” You softly say.
“I know you’re lyin’, Y/N. You always talk softer when you lie. Why do you stay if you have enough money to leave?” Handong turns towards you.
“I don’t have anywhere to go, Dongie. The only two people who care about me, not counting those who abandoned me, live in this town. Where am I supposed to go?” You ask angrily.
“Y/N, I’m sorry about your parents…” Handong mumbles.
“It’s fine, and you’re not at fault in any way. It sucks that nearly everyone in this town has people or a place to escape to. I don’t have that at all.” You explain as your anger starts to dissipate.
“Maybe it’s time to stop livin’ in your head. Don’t watch on the sideline anymore. Live a little bit for once.” Handong places a gentle hand on your shoulder.
You can’t help but smile at her reassuring gaze.
“Maybe it is time to try that…” You look at Handong with hope in your eyes.
“That’s the spirit!” Handong cheers.
After Handong opens the door, she slips into the back to talk to her grandma. Ms. Betty returns to the front, and you slip into the back room.
You work your tail off as you start to catch up on a good majority of the backlog of orders. You also manage to keep up with the baked goods upfront, which aren’t selling as well due to the fair.
For a few hours, you mix, mold, and bake over and over again until you completely cross off every order on that list. Knowing that Ms. Betty still wouldn’t be happy, you decided to clean the kitchen until it was spotless.
After finishing your work for the day, you wander over to the only window and light source in the kitchen. You watch as the sun approaches the horizon as the sunset is about to occur.
You’re content with watching the sun complete its daily mission until you hear the chime of the front door bell.
A customer at this hour? Who would want a baked good when it’s nearly dinner time?
Going against your better judgement, you go to eavesdrop by gently leaning against the door leading to the front dining area. On the way there, you spot your messy reflection on one of the clean countertops.
With messy hair and a flour-covered apron, you’ve definitely seen better days with better clothes and hair.
You reach the door just in time as the customer begins to talk.
“Is this the town bakery?” The feminine voice asks, and you immediately recognize its owner.
Dami!
“Yeah. What brings you in? Are you looking for a special treat for a special someone?” Handong asks with a teasing edge in her voice, and you can imagine her small eyebrow wiggle as well.
“Now be nice to her!” A light smack from Ms. Betty can be heard as Handong howls out in pain.
“Actually, I was more looking for that ‘special someone’. Does another person live here?” Dami asks, and you feel your heart flutter at her words.
Does she really consider me to be that important to her already? I’m honored.
“Yeah, Y/N does. Do you need them? They’re working in the back.” Handong explains.
“I’d like to see them, if that’s alright with y-”
“Y/N! GET IN HERE!” Ms. Betty’s voice interrupts Dami, and you quickly throw your apron off to the side before attempting to fix your look.
You take a deep breath before exiting the door.
“Hi.” You bashfully wave at Dami, and she offers you a heart-warming smile in return.
She’s wearing the same outfit that she did when you first met, except with the addition of a loose black jacket that hangs over her shoulders.
“How have you been?” She asks as you approach the counter from the back door.
“I’m fine, but I probably look like I’ve seen better days.” You joke.
“I disagree.” Dami looks directly into your eyes.
You notice how gentle and loving her eyes seem to be.
“Anyways,” Dami shakes her head after looking away from you. “I wanted to ask you if you wanted to go to the fair with me?”
“Of course! Just let me clean up a bit, and then I’ll be right out.” You smile at the idea of being with her for a few hours.
“I can’t wait.” Dami responds as you turn to exit the room.
You try to hide your excitement until you reach your bedroom; there, you let out a small squeal before picking out a cute outfit. You wash up a little bit and comb your hair before heading downstairs again.
Handong and Ms. Betty are there, staring amazed at your baking creations.
“You really did all of this in one day? I’m impressed. Have fun on your date.” Me. Betty gives you a rare smile before heading into her own room.
“So….” Handong trails off. “You’ve got some serious explaining to do.”
You scratch your neck nervously.
“Do you remember that bar fight that Gahyeon got involved with?” You ask.
“Yeah, and it was about a month ago.” Handong confirms.
“Well, she was there, and she offered to help me take care of Gahyeon; then, she walked me home and I kissed her goodnight.”
“On the lips?!?” Handong says loudly before you slap a hand over her mouth.
“On the cheek.” You blush heavily after removing your hand.
“I guess you’ve already been enjoying life more than I thought. Y/N, you deserve to relax and enjoy tonight. Spend every moment soaking up the experience.” Handong advises.
“I will.” You give her a quick hug before heading out of the kitchen door.
Dami sits at one of the tables closest to the door. She flips another page in her book as you approach.
“Ready?” You ask.
“As long as you are.” Dami looks up from her book.
She closes the book as she stands up. You silently take her hand as she leads you out of the bakery and onto the main dirt road that runs through your town.
“What makes you so interested in our little county fair? I’m sure that you’ve seen more impressive displays on your travels than I’ve ever seen in my life.” You say.
“You’d be surprised, Y/N. I’ve seen a lot of different places and people, but something about this place is so magnetic. Maybe it’s just some person that made me come back…” Dami’s eyes drift to you.
“Me? I doubt that you’d just come ‘round to see me.” You brush a piece of hair out of your face.
“I had to, especially after that goodbye that you left me with.” Dami admits, and you blush as you recall the memory.
“I had to make your visit here memorable, in one way or another.” You look up at the barely visible starry sky above you.
“Well, it most certainly was.” Dami chuckles, and you laugh along with her.
A brief silence takes over the two of you as you approach the spectacle of lights and colors that define the county fair.
“How’s Gahyeon?” Dami inquires with a slight bit of concern.
“She’s fully recovered and as rambunctious as ever. Gahyeon hasn’t stopped talking about how cool you were for stepping in and saving her.” You fondly recall every time that Gahyeon has gone on a tangent about her “blue-haired savior dressed in all black”.
“Ah,” A light blush coats Dami’s face, “I…”
“A bit tongue-tied, are you? It’s alright. Gahyeon can have that effect on people.” A bit of sadness slips into your voice as you let go of her hand.
“Well, her father has a booth in here, and I told Gahyeon that I’d come visit her.” You slip your hands into your pocket as you feel a slight chill run over your bare skin.
“Lead the way.” You walk in front of Dami as you weave through the crowd of people.
Soon enough, the small forge set-up appears in front of your eyes. You wave at her father, who nods in your direction.
You turn around for a moment to check that Dami is behind you before continuing to your destination.
“Ah, Y/N, It’s great to see you!” Gahyeon’s dad gives you a warm smile as you arrive at the forge.
“Likewise.” You smile right back at him.
“Good evening.” Dami arrives at your side and then tips her hat at him.
“Ah, Ms. Dami, it’s great to see you again. Are you lookin’ for a new weapon? I’m sure that Y/N…”
“Actually, Y/N is with me tonight, and we came to see Gahyeon.” Dami corrects as a bigger smile spreads on his face.
“That’s good to hear. They could use another friend or two because I’m not sure that Gahyeon is the best influence on them.” Gahyeon’s dad whispers to you softly.
“I HEARD THAT!” Gahyeon yells from the back.
“How’s your wife?” You politely ask.
“As pretty and well as ever.” He says dreamily.
“Good.” You nod before looking in the back anxiously.
Gahyeon storms out from the back, only to make eye contact with you.
“Y/N, she finally let you out of the dungeon! It’s great to see you.” Gahyeon rushes around the booth to give you a hug.
“Ah, and you brought company too~” Gahyeon pokes your side as her eyes align with Dami’s.
Gahyeon finally lets you go, and you find yourself missing her warmth as the night chill enters your body again. You shiver again as you rub your arms in order to keep warm.
“Here.” Dami takes off her black jacket, and she hands it to you.
“Thanks.” You mumble softly as you put the jacket on.
The smell of gunpowder, a blend of fruits, and sugar enters your nose. You wouldn’t exactly describe the scent as pleasing, but it was oddly comforting to you.
“So, what have you two been up to?” Gahyeon asks playfully.
“We just got here. Y/N and I wanted to see you before we walked around.” Dami answers.
“I appreciate the gesture! Not many people come to see me…” Gahyeon pouts.
“Because you’re supposed to be working.” Her dad chides.
“Ah, whatever! I’ve been working hard all day, and I’m taking a break. I’ll be back to help tear down.” Gahyeon briefly hugs her dad before exiting the booth.
“You better be. Have a good night, you three!” He waves at you all as you begin walking away from the forge.
Your hand finds its way into Dami’s, and she gently squeezes your hand. You return the gesture as a smile slips onto her face.
Gahyeon excitedly links arms with you on your other side.
“So, do you have any interesting stories to tell, ah…” Gahyeon blushes in embarrassment, “What’s your name again?”
“Dami.” She gently answers before staring at the numerous booths that are out for display.
“Dami! Lovely to meet you properly.” Gahyeon smiles at Dami.
“I agree. My last impression of you left me worried.”
“Sorry, I’m usually not like that…” Gahyeon lies and you shake your head in disbelief .
“That’s not what Y/N said.” Dami says.
“Y/N! Why would you tell her that?” Gahyeon yells.
“I wasn’t going to lie.” You shrug your shoulders.
“Whatever. Anyways, I want to hear some of those cool vigilante stories.” Gahyeon eagerly looks at Dami.
~
“Wait, you really took on thirty men with nothing but a six-shooter? That’s amazing!” Gahyeon says between bites.
The three of you stopped to get food as you all swapped stories with each other. Gahyeon talked about her first time forging and then shooting a gun, and now Dami was telling the story that led her to fame within your area.
“Didn’t come out without a scratch, however.” Dami takes her hat off and tosses it at Gahyeon.
Gahyeon successfully catches the hat as she gasps in awe.
“No way! Are these real bullet holes?” Gahyeon carefully runs her fingers along the broken parts of the hat.
“Yep. That hat was a gift from my family for my travels. I refuse to get it fixed. It’s a healthy reminder that I still need to be careful after all of these years.” Dami gently admires the hat in Gahyeon’s hands.
You, on the other hand, are enjoying the view that comes from the lack of Dami’s hat. The sharp features on her face are more defined, and the soft red tint of her lips is very pronounced. Her curly eyelashes and well-defined eyebrows highlight the intensity of her gaze.
Your eyes linger at her lips, and you’re wondering what it would be like to kiss them.
Gahyeon tosses the hat back to Dami, which causes you to stop daydreaming.
Dami gently places the hat back onto her head. She readjusts the placement of her braids.
“What about you?” Dami asks as she turns her attention to you.
“I don’t really have many interesting stories about myself.” You shyly admit.
“That’s so not true! Don’t let Y/N fool you; they’re a lot more interestin’ than they appear or admit to be.” Gahyeon gives you a disapproving look.
“I’ve figured that out. If you don’t have any interesting stories to tell, then it’s probably time to make some.” Dami gently sets her hand back into yours.
“I’d like that.” You smile at her.
“Hey, if it isn’t trouble herself!” Gahyeon rushes behind you to greet somebody.
You quickly turn around to see a familiar face.
“Yoohyeon?” You ask in disbelief.
You observe her for a moment. Her brown hair is braided into a single braid that falls down her back. A small blonde streak in her hair draws your attention, along with her floral-pattern dress.
“Y/N, Gahyeon! It’s great to see the both of you.” Yoohyeon’s bright smile makes her words cheerful.
“Let’s see… blue hair, dark clothes… You’re that vigilante girl, right?” Yoohyeon raises an eyebrow at Dami.
Dami simply hums in response.
“The quiet type, huh? Don’t get me wrong, it’s just not my style.” Yoohyeon rambles.
“Yoohyeon’s family arranges all of the fairs around this area,” You explain to Dami, “so we only get to see her a few days out of the year.”
“But we’ve made so many good memories in that time! What about that time that we hijacked a wagon?” Gahyeon excitedly recalls the memory.
“Which time?” Yoohyeon and you ask at the same time.
“Which time?” Dami repeats in disbelief.
“We were some real troublemakers at that time. There’s too many stories of us basically breaking the law and getting away with it.” Yoohyeon explains.
“Oh yeah! Like that time Y/N switched every mailing address on the mail for a week straight!” Gahyeon laughs.
“I…” You blush while trying to think of a comeback. “At least I didn’t vomit when I tried alcohol for the first time!”
“I was very drunk!” Gahyeon squeaks out.
“Yeah, I don’t even remember what happened the day after. That hangover was awful.” Yoohyeon cringes at her past self.
“What about you? Do you have any childhood stories?” Gahyeon innocently asks Dami.
“I didn’t really do much. I walked the straight and narrow path for most of my childhood. Did as my parents said, and didn’t talk back. Then, I developed my own view on life, and well… here I am.” Dami shrugs.
“Yeah, the great adventurer and vigilante didn’t chase down criminals as a toddler? I find that hard to believe.” Gahyeon chuckles at her own words, and Yoohyeon joins in.
“You believe me, right?” Dami looks at you.
“I’d believe anything you said. You’re someone I trust, and I don’t trust a lot of people.” You admit while keeping your gaze on the ground.
Dami cups your cheek and gently lifts your face to meet hers.
“I’m glad that you feel that way about me because I trust you too.” Dami light brushes your cheek with her thumb.
Her other hand is still interlocked with yours. You dreamily stare at her until you hear gagging.
“Ew, get a room!” Gahyeon sticks her tongue out at you.
“Whatever.” You step out of the dreamworld that you were once in as both of Dami’s hands return to her side.
“I didn’t come over here for no reason, you know,” Yoohyeon interrupts. “I came to tell you all that I plan on movin’ into town around wintertime.”
“Really?” Gahyeon’s eyes shine bright as she tackles Yoohyeon into a hug.
“Really.” Yoohyeon smiles at you.
“I couldn’t be happier.” You give Yoohyeon a nod.
Gahyeon eventually lets go of Yoohyeon.
“We should let you get back to what you’re doing.” You insist while leading Gahyeon and Dami away.
“I’ll be awaitin’ you at the saloon!” Gahyeon falls out as Yoohyeon heads back into the midst of the fair.
“She’s something, huh?” You gaze at Dami.
“I’d say that the three of you are.” Dami jokes.
“Rude.” You roll your eyes in fake annoyance.
“What? I’m not right? Are you not the person who helped hijack a wagon on multiple occasions?” Dami recalls the earlier conversation.
“It was actually five times.” Gahyeon pipes in.
“Five times?” Dami chuckles after staring at you for a moment. “You continue to surprise me, Y/N.”
“It wasn’t- I don’t- Hmph!” You pout and fold your arms angrily as a prominent blush rises on your face.
“Aww, you’re blushing. Are you embarrassed or are you being shy?” Gahyeon pokes your side.
“GAHYEON!” You yell before burying your face in your hands.
Dami and Gahyeon laugh together. You can hear the crunching of leaves as someone closes in on you.
“Y/N.” Dami places a hand on your head.
She begins to gently brush your hair. Refusing to give into her advances, you shake your head.
“C’mon, sweetheart, let me see those beautiful eyes and that sweet smile of yours.” Dami words cause a flurry of butterflies to settle in your stomach.
You pull your hands out of your face as you slowly meet her eyes.
“Do you really mean all of that?” You ask shyly.
“Every word of it.” Dami nods to confirm her words.
You stare at each other in a comfortable silence for the longest moment of your life. She’s close enough that you can feel her soft breath on your lips, and you wish over and over that she'd pull you in close.
“We… should catch up to Gahyeon. She said that she wanted to show us someplace.” Dami slowly begins to walk as you fade out of your daydream.
Another time, perhaps.
You catch up with her and link arms.
“Lead the way.”
Gahyeon eventually comes into view after you and Dami weave through the thick crowd of people.
“Took you long enough to catch up with me!” Gahyeon gives you a cheeky smile and a wink.
“What were you going to show us?” You ask.
“That!” Gahyeon points towards a small stage where a band is currently playing.
A small group of people sway along to the music that you can barely hear.
“C’mon, let’s get there before they start to play the next song.” Gahyeon rushes ahead, and the two of you quickly fall behind her.
Just as the three of you arrive, the band stops playing and the small group of people cheer. The lead singer of the band walks towards the front of the stage.
“Alright! Thank you all for comin’ tonight! For our last song, we want you to grab your darlin’ and have some fun while dancin’!” They yell, and the crowd cheers back.
The band slowly begins to play, and the crowd splits off as people around you begin to dance in pairs.
“Well, I guess I’ve got to go find someone to dance with… Have fun, you too.” Gahyeon runs off before you realize what she’s done.
That little mischievous matchmaker…
A light tap on your shoulder causes you to turn around. You face Dami, and she lets go of your arm. She takes your hand in hers, and she pulls your hand up to her face at a painstakingly slow pace. Dami presses a sweet kiss to your hand while looking you dead in the eye.
You bite your lip as a warm blush overtakes your face.
She removes your hand from her lips, but she continues to watch your eyes.
“May I have this dance?” Dami gently asks.
“Of course.”
Dami pulls you close as she interlocks her fingers with yours. She takes her other hand and places it on your waist, and you follow by placing your free hand on her shoulder.
“So… what did you think of the fair?” You inquire.
“It’s one of the best that I’ve seen. The people around here made it so much better, though.” Dami admits with a soft blush on her face.
“I know. Yoohyeon and Gahyeon are always-”
“I was talkin’ about you, Y/N.” Dami interrupts you.
“Really?” Your eyes light up and your smile grows wider.
“Of course. Why don’t you believe that you’re someone that people want to be around? I’ve heard nothing but good things about you, and I’ve spoken to quite a few people in this town.” Dami’s voice softens with each and every word.
“Maybe it’s because I never had somebody tell me those good things…” You mumble as tears threaten to fall.
“What about your parents?”
“They abandoned me in order to live a better life. They told everyone that I was nothing but a burden to them. I was old enough to remember everything they said and did.” You bluntly state.
“Y/N, I-”
“Please don’t apologize.” Your voice breaks with every word.
You let go of her hand and shoulder as the song ends.
Everyone around you cheers as you begin to shed tears. You lean into Dami as she wraps both of her arms around you.
“I wish you wouldn’t have gone through any of that, but I know that you wouldn’t be the person I adore without those experiences behind you.” Dami’s words are comforting to you as you let the tears fall rapidly.
She rubs your back with one hand as the other stays on your waist.
The tears in your eyes slowly dry up, and you pull yourself out of Dami’s arms.
She brushes the hair out of your face as you start to feel conscious about your appearance.
“Do I look alright?” You ask her.
“As beautiful as ever.” Dami mumbles, and you smile.
“We should get going. The fair’s going to shut down for the night.” You and Dami both look up at the night sky before looking at each other.
“Thank you for comin’ with me.” Dami slips her hand into yours.
“I wouldn’t have gone with anyone else.” You begin walking with her as the moon rises high into the sky.
The night time walk home is a lot longer than you thought it was, and you couldn’t be more thankful. You and Dami now had the time to talk about the stars, your favorite books, some interesting tales, and so much more. A familiar feeling of disappointment rises in your stomach as you approach the bakery.
“Well, I suppose this is goodbye. Good night, Y/N.” Dami pulls you in for a warm hug.
You gladly accept, and you stay in her arms for a bit longer than you should’ve. You let go with a soft sigh.
“Don’t be a stranger, alright? You’re welcome ‘round here anytime, and you know where to find me.” You tell her.
“I’ll do my best.” Dami nods.
Feeling a bit more daring, you go to kiss her like last time, but Dami is faster. She presses another kiss to your hand before letting go.
“I had to return the favor.” Dami says.
“Well, goodnight.” You wave at her before heading inside of the bakery.
“Sweet dreams, my dear.” Dami’s words never fail to make your heart beat like crazy.
As you walk further into the bakery, you realize that you’re still wearing Dami’s coat. You run back to the door to find her, but you see nothing but an empty road and the night sky.
You make a mental note to return the coat to her as soon as possible before you get ready for bed.
~
September fades into October as the fresh green leaves from spring and summer turn to shades of brown, red, yellow, and orange. Your shoes cause every leaf under your foot to crunch as you make your way to the post office. You’re in charge of getting mail for the bakery and saloon, and it’s a good way to get out of the house and to enjoy the fall weather.
As a breeze tickles your cheek, you pull the deep black coat tighter against your skin. You’re sure that Dami must miss her jacket, but you admit that she’d enjoy seeing you in it even more.
The postmaster greets you as you walk through the front door.
“Here’s the mail for the saloon and bakery,” They hand you two separate stacks that you file away in your bag, “and I have a note addressed to you.”
“To me?” You curiously raise an eyebrow as they hand you a thin envelope.
“It’s weird because there wasn’t a return label on it, but one of the mail carriers said that the lady who sent it was pretty insistent on getting it to you. I think that whoever picked up that letter was a bit tipsy because they were sayin’ that the lady had blue hair!” The postmaster explains as you try to resist the urge to rip open the envelope right at that moment.
You quickly thank the postmaster as you exit the building. As soon as you’re out of the door, you flip the envelope over.
A neat cursive handwriting greets you, along with your name and address. You carefully open the envelope before sticking it in the pocket of your bag.
You fold the note open and begin to read every word that Dami has sent you. Your heart beats faster at every syllable that she wrote, and you can feel every emotion within that page. You grow connected to her as you long to see her once more.
~
Like a sweet melody, those small memories of us replay in my head over and over again…
You’ve grown so dear and near to my heart so quickly; I fear for my safety, but the fleeting promise of you is enough to make me take the plunge.
You’re enough for me, Y/N, and I wish you could see how much I care and long for you.
Wait for me. I’ll return soon. ~ Dami
~
“Y/N, I can’t just send a letter to a random woman that I’ve never seen before.” The postmaster explains after you return the next day.
You set the biggest loaf of the bakery’s famous pumpkin bread on the counter.
“Perhaps arrangements can be made…” They grab the loaf along with your letter.
You nod at them before leaving the post office.
I spent last night writing that letter. I hope it gets to her.
~
Your words leave me just as breathless as you do. Are you always this charming? Perhaps there’s a new part of you I have yet to see…
I spend most nights thinking of you, waiting for you to return. You’ll come soon, right? I don’t know how much longer I can last without seeing your face.
I’ll always be here, and you know where to find me. - Y/N
~
The stack of letters on your desk slowly begins to rise as November closes in on your town. It’s nearly impossible to do anything due to the cold temperatures, so you try to stay inside. Working in the saloon is a great comfort, as the warm atmosphere keeps your body and heart warm throughout the chilly nights.
“Can it get any colder outside?” Gahyeon asks one night as a customer walks through the door.
“I wouldn’t ask that question since I don’t want to be jinxed because of your words.” You tease Gahyeon.
“I suppose you’re right.” She mumbles while pulling a winter coat closer to herself.
“I don’t know… I’m quite comfortable.” You shrug in the jacket that you’ve been wearing since the county fair.
“Of course you are. You’re wearing the clothes of someone that’s courting you. That’s why you feel so warm all of the time~” Gahyeon teases you right back.
“We are not-” You try to defend yourself.
“You aren't there yet. You guys write love letters to each other at least once a week. If that’s not courting, then call me stupid.” Gahyeon retorts.
“You know about the letters?”
“Handong told me. You can’t just tell Handong everything and not expect me to find out.” Gahyeon smugly says.
“Ah, that snitch!” You pout.
“Don’t worry about it; it’s not like Dami is going to walk through that door at any moment.” Gahyeon vaguely gestures at the door before a figure walks in.
“No way…” You and Gahyeon stare in disbelief as Dami hangs her coat on one of the coat hangers at the front of the saloon.
Gahyeon waves at the door again before saying, “I’d like someone who’s exactly my type to walk through that door!”
She sighs before beginning to work again.
You excitedly wave at Dami as you catch her attention. She gives her signature hat tip as she approaches the bar counter.
“Need a drink?” Gahyeon asks as she cleans a spare glass.
“No, but I was wondering if I could borrow Y/N for a bit? It’ll just be for a few moments.” Dami gazes at you for a moment before looking at Gahyeon.
“Sure, but don’t have too much fun.” Gahyeon nudges your side as you pass her.
You send her a deadly glare before meeting Dami in front of the bar.
“Do I need anything?” You ask.
“Not at all.”
Dami leads you outside after you place your coat on the same hanger as hers. The afternoon sun brightly shines on you, but you can barely feel its effects on your skin.
Dami takes you around the back of the saloon, where a few beer bottles are set up on crates. They’re at least ten feet in front of you.
“What did you take me out here for?” You cock your head.
“This.” Dami straightens her hat before effortlessly pulling her gun out of its holster.
She lines up the barrel of the gun with her target, and she clicks the safety off. Dami squints one of her eyes before firing the gun.
You yelp and jump back at the sound of gunfire. You watch as the bullet connects with its target, and the bottle instantly bursts upon impact.
“You’re… going to teach me how to fire a gun?” You breathlessly say.
“Exactly.” Dami smirks confidently.
Dami clicks the safety on before tossing the gun in the air. She catches it by the barrel before offering it to you by the hand.
You nervously approach Dami as you take the gun from her hand.
How am I supposed to do this?
“Here, let me help.” Dami notices your nervous stance, and she offers to help you.
“Don’t be nervous. You’re not hurtin’ anyone, and you know that I sure as hell wouldn’t let you hurt yourself.” She softly reassures you as her hands rub your shoulders.
“Relax, and stand naturally. Let the gun fit into your hands.” She moves her hands on top of yours as she leans against you.
You naturally blush as you feel yourself lean into Dami.
“Aim at the largest part of the bottle. If you’re off, you’ll still hit it.” Dami whispers as her hands travel from your hands to your waist.
“Whenever you’re ready, fire.” Dami mumbles softly against you as you mentally prepare yourself.
You aim just like she says, and you click the safety off without her instruction. Something, however, keeps you from firing the gun.
“It’s alright, darlin’, I’m right here.” Dami’s words are the last bit of motivation you need as you pull the trigger.
Your body jerks from the firing of the gun, but Dami steadies you. You end up hitting the top of the bottle, but it still shatters from the impact.
“That was a good shot.” Dami wraps her arms around you.
You click the safety on before tossing the gun off to the side. You enjoy the warm feeling of Dami’s arms around you, along with the army of butterflies in your stomach.
“Thanks.” You mutter gently as you try to recover from the shock of firing the gun.
The two of you stand together for a moment before Dami lets go of you to grab the gun. She gently dusts it off as you regain your senses.
“If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were trying to flirt with me.” You tease her.
“That was just a bonus.” Dami’s gaze flickers up to give you a wink.
“What was your plan, then?” You fold your arm as Dami pulls another gun from her holster.
It’s an identical model to hers in every way. She carefully hands you the gun.
“Flip it over.” She instructs, and you follow her every word.
You gasp as you trace the intricate design of the handle. Although the handle is plain on one side, the other is coated in your favorite color. You notice that a flower is painted on to the background.
The head of a rose blooms from the top of the handle, and a stem along with a few petals snake down to the end.
“How did you…” You trail off as you’re completely mesmerized by the handle’s design.
You watch as Dami flips her gun over as well. A deep blue is the background of her handles, and a stem flows from the top of the gun to the bottom, where a few smaller flowers are inscribed into a small pile of grass.
You immediately align her handle with yours, and you watch as the perfect shape of a fully-bloomed rose in the middle of spring appears.
“Did you make this for me?” You look up at her with pure admiration.
“Yeah, and that’s why it took me so long to get here. The painter wasn’t able to get them done until a few days ago.” Dami explains.
“I…” You let your hand run against the barrel of the gun, “Thank you so much.”
“You’re welcome.” She smiles at you.
“You should probably get inside. Gahyeon might be worried, and I’ll clean up the mess.” Dami says.
“Are you sure?”
“I insist.”
You send her a warm smile before heading inside.
“She made you a GUN?!?” Gahyeon says excitedly as you hand the gun to her.
“She gifted me a gun.” You correct her.
“Ah, whatever! Same difference.” She mumbles in annoyance as her hands gently run over the handle of the gun.
Gahyeon aims at a window before pretending to shoot the gun.
“Gahyeon, don’t do that!” You scold her before grabbing the gun.
“What, I can’t mess around with your girlfriend’s stuff?” Gahyeon playfully whispers.
“For the last time-”
“Don’t think I didn’t see you two getting handsy. Windows exists, Y/N.”
“Gahyeon!” You squeal in a high-pitched tone.
“Here she comes now.” Gahyeon mutters as you grab a glass and pretend to look busy while catching a glance from Dami.
“Hey, why don't you come sit up here with us? We could use the company.” Gahyeon elbows you in the side after calling Dami over.
Dami nods before sitting at the counter with you and Gahyeon.
“How’d the lesson go?” Gahyeon asks.
“I don’t know, ask Y/N.” Dami says.
Dami and Gahyeon look eagerly at you as they await your answer.
“It was fun.” You blush as you place the glass back onto the counter.
“I’m glad. I thought I scared you off.” Dami admits as Gahyeon sets a glass of water near you.
“Pardon?” You slide the glass over to Dami.
“You looked terrified before and after you shot the bottle. I didn’t know what to think when you ran inside.” Dami takes a sip of water after speaking.
“I was scared, but I thought that I made a fool of myself in front of you.” You lean on the counter as the world around you starts to disappear.
“You could never do that.” Dami takes your hand in hers.
“So… what made you choose to be a vigilante? That’s not a common occupation for a woman.” You ask the question that’s been burning in the back of your mind for a while.
“That’s an… interesting question.” Dami’s eyes shift to the side, and you can sense her nerves.
“It’s alright if you don’t want to answer the question.” You immediately back off, but Dami squeezes your hand.
“It’s okay. You deserve the truth.” Dami takes a deep breath before continuing to talk.
“I lied back when I told you about how I got my hat. It wasn’t a final gift from my family; in fact, I barely remember them. I left home at a young age, eager for adventure. My family never supported me, and I doubt that they ever would. I was hungry for fame, for attention, for…. anything that I could get my hands on.”
Dami quickly brings the glass to her lips before continuing to talk.
“I ran into the wrong crowd when I was young. A group of bandits took me in as a teen. They taught me how to shoot, what to shoot, and where to shoot. I was so young that I didn’t have a clue what I was doin’ until one of my bullets hit a man’s chest.”
You gasp in response as Dami smiles softly.
“I quit on the spot. Didn’t want nothin’ to do that life anymore. I refused to fire my gun for years, until they found my hidin’ spot. That was the last time I ever hurt another person. I knew that there were people out there bein’ harassed by people like them, and I couldn’t let that go on. It’s much easier to catch bandits when you were one. So I did, and eventually, I grew a reputation that I was proud of.” Dami finishes her story, and she looks up to you for a response.
“I… don’t know what to think.” You softly admit.
“That’s alright. It’s a lot, I know.” A certain soft sadness enters the eyes that you adored staring into.
“I didn’t mean it like that. I, well… I want to learn more about you, both good and bad. I’m glad that you opened up to me.” You give her a bright smile.
“I’m glad too.” She mutters while clicking her long nails on the counter.
“Can I ask another question?”
“Shoot.”
“Do you regret anything?” You ask quietly.
Dami ponders your question before speaking.
“No, I don’t. I wouldn’t be sittin’ here if I was still at home with my family. I don’t think I could imagine myself as much of a housewife.” Dami laughs heartily.
“So you’re not one for settlin’ down and gettin’ married?” You mutter.
“Ah, we’re skipping the courting?” Dami raises an eyebrow at you.
“I- We- You know that’s not what I meant!” You’re a blushing mess at her words.
“I wouldn’t mind bein’ your wife, if that’s what you’re askin’. I don’t think you’d completely tie me down. I’d still be free to do as I wish, but I’d have someone to come home to...” Dami dreamily looks into your eyes, “you know what? I wouldn’t mind that one bit.”
“I’d be the one doin’ all the cookin’ and cleanin’ , then. I see how it is.” You fake pout at that possibility.
“Y/N, I didn’t mean that. You’d be free to explore the world with me, if you wished. I just didn’t think you were that type.”
“Well, maybe I am that type. You’ll just have to find out~” You tease.
“How do I do that?” Dami leans toward you.
“A date.” You answer as her face is inches away from yours.
“Sounds like a plan. Meet me at the stables when I come ‘round.” Dami pulls back from you, and you sigh in disappointment.
You’re surprised as she walks away from the bar. You stay quiet until she grabs her coat from the rack.
“How am I supposed to know when you’ll be here next?” You call out across the bar.
“Trust your heart, my dear. ...And Y/N?” Dami looks at you, and you swear that you’re ready to fall over at the pure love in her eyes.
“Yes?”
“You look divine in my jacket.”
You hold the counter while trying to prevent yourself from collapsing on the ground.
My god, I’m in love.
~
You shine so bright, I just can’t stare at anything but you. The brightest sun on a warm day couldn’t dream of comparing to you.
You’re sweeter than the finest honey, and lovelier than a bunch of roses. Perhaps a gift like that would be perfect for you…
I miss you, my dear.
Wait for me? ~ Dami
~
I swear, your charms in person are enough to rival your beautiful words. I’d be much more likely to make a decision on which is better if you would visit me more often…
Gahyeon and Handong ask about you nonstop. My admiration for you has not gone unnoticed, along with my longing to be by your side.
I missed you from the moment you left, and I miss you so much more now.
I’d wait for you until the end of time. - Y/N
~
The freezing December air keeps you inside the saloon and bakery for most of the day. It’s nearly unbearable to walk outside, even with a jacket on. You’d like to stay inside, but Yoohyeon’s arrival in your small town makes that impossible.
After moving another piece of furniture into her humble abode, you enjoy a warm cup of hot chocolate along with Gahyeon and Yoohyeon.
“I didn’t know you had so much stuff!” Gahyeon huffs as she cuddles further into her blanket.
“Neither did I.” Yoohyeon mumbles before drinking her hot cocoa.
“This place is nice, Yooh. I’ll have to give it to you there.” You admire the small house, and you wonder if something like this could be in the future.
“Ah, thinking about the future with your girlfriend, are we?” Gahyeon giggles.
“Gahyeon-”
“What girlfriend?” Yoohyeon looks confused as she looks between you and Gahyeon for answers.
“Oh, do you remember that girl that Y/N and I were with? Blue hair, all black clothes, and a bit on the quieter side.” Gahyeon describes her.
“Yes! Ah, what was her name…” Yoohyeon trails off.
“Dami!” You say a bit too eagerly as Yoohyeon looks at you, “Her name is Dami.”
“I told you, Yoohyeon, they’re totally going steady.” Gahyeon attempts to get Yoohyeon on her side.
“I can see it.” Yoohyeon agrees.
You shake your head before burying your red face into the soft blanket in your lap.
“Hey, it’s okay! We all fall in love at one point or another! Yours just happens to be… a bit more on the eccentric side.” Gahyeon reaches over and rubs your back reassuringly.
“Thanks, Gahyeon.” You say flatly before pulling your face out of the blanket.
“You’re so welcome!”
A knock on the door interrupts the three of you. Yoohyeon offers to get the door, and she spends some time talking to the person before shutting the door.
Yoohyeon slowly walks back into the room, and you and Gahyeon stare in awe at the massive package in her hands.
“Can the two of you stop starin’ and start helpin’ me set this thing down?” Yoohyeon takes a breath between every word.
The two of you rush forward to help Yoohyeon set the package down.
“Postman said it’s for you.” Yoohyeon nods at you.
“Me?” You raise an eyebrow as you inspect the package in front of you.
You grab the small note that is precariously attached to the top of the package.
You hastily open the letter as Gahyeon and Yoohyeon crowd around you.
To my beloved, Y/N
Consider this all to be a token of my affection and gratitude. Everything that you’ve given me is priceless, but hopefully I can start to pay my debt back to you with this.
Wait for me.
~ Dami
Gahyeon grabs the letter from your hands.
“Gosh, you make her letters sound so much more exciting than they actually are!” Gahyeon reads the letter agin to herself.
“I thought that the letter was sweet and well-written.” Yoohyeon argues.
“No way!”
“Yeah-huh!”
As the pair begin to argue, you carefully unbox the package.
Does she really have to outdo herself?
A large display of items greets your eyes, with each calling for you to grab them.
You start from the top, where a jar of honey greets you.
After digging for what seems like forever, you finally reach the bottom of the box, and a small doll waits for you to grab them.
As you admire them in your hands, you notice a small piece of paper sticking out of its top. You carefully fish the paper out before setting the doll next to the rest of your goods.
After unfolding the paper, you read another note from Dami.
Y/N,
I told you that you’d find the answer in your heart. It’s a bit cheesy, but I figured that it would work. Besides, this method keeps the note a secret from any… onlookers.
When the stars appear in the sky tonight, meet me by the stables. I’ll be waiting for you.
~ Dami
You quickly tuck the note into your pocket before any of the girls could see.
As the girls stop arguing, they look at you with their mouths agape.
“My god, she’s got it bad for you.” Yoohyeon says after a moment of silence.
“I’m starting to think so too.” You mumble.
“You think?” Gahyeon starts to dig through the pile of stuff next to you.
“Y/N, she got you tea from three different countries, a hand-woven blanket, a set of gloves and a hat, two things of perfume, a holster for the gun she got you, a stuffed panda, and this cute little doll that looks like you. After all of that, you have the audacity to tell me that she just likes you as a friend?” Gahyeon stares at you like you’ve got a hole in your head.
“God, you’re right.” You blush heavily as the realization hits you.
She’s always been so forward about it. Why haven’t I noticed this before?
“Thank goodness. Now I don’t have to watch you guys stare longing at each other like lost puppies.” Gahyeon jokes.
“Is it really that bad?” Yoohyeon asks.
“Oh, absolutely.” Gahyeon nods.
You peer out the window as you watch the sunset.
“I’m sorry, girls, but I have to go,” You quickly stand up and brush the blanket off of you, “Can I keep this stuff at your house until tomorrow, Yooh?”
“I mean, sure, but where are you off to?” Yoohyeon asks as you set your mug in the sink and grab your coat.
“She’s off to meet her lover, I bet.” Gahyeon teases as you quickly adjust your hair in the mirror next to the door.
“You’re exactly right.” You smile and wave at the girls before leaving.
“Good luck, Y/N!” Yoohyeon cheers.
“Don’t mess this up.” Gahyeon calls.
“Hey, be nice to them!” You hear Yoohyeon call out before you close the door while chuckling.
They really are something.
~
You find the cold winter air to be nice and refreshing to your blood red cheeks. You’ve been thinking about ways to confess to Dami, but none of them seem quite right to you.
I guess I’ll have to wing it, then.
You continue to walk away from the main hub of town until you reach the stables. They’ve been abandoned for a while, except for one horse that lies in there now.
You smile as you approach the friendly beast. A bucket of freshly picked apples lies right outside of the fence, so you grab one to feed to the horse. It gladly takes the apple from you, and it lets out a sound of enjoyment.
“Lucky’s taken a likin’ to you.” Dami’s voice settles next to you as her figure leans against the railing.
“Lucky?” You tilt your head at her.
“Yeah, her name’s Lucky. I’ve had her for about three years. She’s a good horse that’s saved me from a lot of trouble.” Dami observes you as you gently pet the horse’s mane.
Lucky reacts positively to your touch, and you beam at her and Dami.
“You’re sweet, just like your owner.” You coo at the horse.
“She reacts well to kind people.” Dami grins at you.
You give the horse another apple before walking towards Dami.
“I missed you.” You mumble as you wrap your arms around her.
“I missed you too. Did you get everything?” Dami asks with concern in her voice as she places her hands on your waist.
You hum as you slip her the note from your pocket.
“I knew you’d figure it out,” She smiles at you once again before offering you her hand, “shall we?”
You take her hand and let her lead you around the stables. A large blanket is placed on the ground, and a warm campfire burns right next to where you’ll be sitting.
Dami takes the note in her hand and tosses it into the fire.
She stares at the fire for a moment before sitting down. You follow her lead and sit down next to her.
With your hands still interlocked, Dami shifts closer to you. You barely notice as your eyes are glued to the sky above.
The starry sky above you glows so bright that you just cannot ignore it. Its shimmering display in all of its glory lies above you and Dami. The stars feel perfectly aligned, as if you were supposed to meet her at this moment.
“Y/N?” Dami’s voice breaks you out of your fixation with the sky.
“Yeah?”
“Do you think about the future a lot?” Dami’s question throws you off.
“I do, but probably a bit more than the average person does.” You honestly answer.
“What do you picture your future as?” She asks you another poignant question.
“I’d like a small house, somewhere that could provide me a bit of privacy. I’d like to spend my days doin’ what I love with the person that I love. From there, I would let life take me on it’s wild journey.” You smile at the thought of a domestic life with a bit of adventure.
“Is that all?” Dami anxiously looks at you, and you realize what answer she’s waiting for.
“Well… I’d like that person that I love to be you.” You confess while trying to not pour your heart out everywhere.
A moment of silence overtakes the two of you as Dami contemplates your answer.
“I want you to be in my future, Y/N, no matter what paths we may take. It doesn’t matter to me anymore because all I want is you.” Dami finally answers as the building anxiousness in your chest disappears.
“I want you like that too.” You look directly at Dami.
Dami takes her free hand and carefully places it on your cheek. She gently guides your face closer to hers until you’re mere inches away from her lips.
“May I?” Her eyes flicker down to your lips for a moment before meeting yours again.
“Please do.” You breathe out as Dami’s lips connect with yours.
The shining stars in the night sky glow bright as two souls connect with each other and eventually become one.
A/N: Hi guys, girls, and non-binary pearls! I decided to put up an extra little drabble since that little MTL thing only took me 5 minutes to make. I hope you enjoy this work that was ironically written at 11 p.m.
TW: None, but can you all tell how hard I simp for this woman.
You shiver as the morning breeze hits your bare arms.
I didn’t think it was going to be this cold today.
You feel a warm arm wrap around your waist, and you let Dami pull you close as you stare into the sunrise.
“You haven’t been out here for too long, right?” Dami mumbles softly into your ear so only you can hear her.
“It’s only been a few minutes.” You answer back as your eyes focus on the pretty swirls of color in front of you.
It’s amazing how the sky can be so beautiful and enchanting at the same time.
“That’s good. I don’t want you getting sick.” You look back after Dami speaks, only to see that her eyes are focused on you instead of the view.
“I’ll be fine, and if I’m not, then I always have you to take care of me.” You press a soft kiss onto her lips as Dami wraps both of her arms around you. Your lips disconnect with hers after a while, and a smile spreads across your face.
“We should still head inside, just to be sure.” Her face is still inches from yours, and your heart is still racing, but you’re not ready to back down yet.
“I think you’re just making excuses so we can cuddle together.” You jokingly accuse her, and a guilty smile appears on Dami’s face.
“And what’s so wrong with wanting to cuddle with the most beautiful person on Earth?” You blush at her warm compliment.
“Absolutely nothing at all.” You take one last look at the rising sun before letting Dami drag you inside.
I wish I could spend every day like this, with you, and then my life would be complete.
A/N: Hi guys, girls, and non-binary pearls! I know that Take Me Away is a day earlier, but I have a good explanation for that. Due to my great planning schedule, I’ve finished the whole series way ahead of the deadline I set for myself! This means that I have no reason hold back these chapters from you if they’re done. This means that Take Me Away will go up to two chapters a week!! I hope you like this change, and I hope you love this chapter!! ❤️
Are you a bit behind of the series? Is this the first chapter that you’ve seen? Catch up by reading the Series Masterlist!
TW: Overworking + abuse of a household servant (please be nice to people and remember that this is a work of fiction!), mentions of not eating/sleeping, glass breaks, bugs, medicine
“Thank you. It’s very kind of you to do all of this for me. Not many people are so gracious to someone they don’t know.” You softly admit.
“It is no issue at all. As soon as you’re feeling better, come downstairs. I’ll help you find someplace to stay.” The woman turns and places her hand on the door handle.
“Wait!” You call out to her. “Can I at least get your name?”
The woman gives you a warm smile.
“Ah, my bad. You probably would want to know my name. I’m Dami, and this is the apartment above my shop.”
“Dami, it’s, ah… nice to meet you. I’m Y/N.” You reciprocate her smile.
“Y/N…” She repeats the name softly. “Take as much time as you need. I am in no rush at all.”
With those words, Dami exits the room, and you’re left alone with the warmth of the fireplace.
What was that?
An introduction. What else was that supposed to be?
I mean, it was nice, but I fainted outside in the cold. That’s not the most flattering first impression.
I pulled a lot of strings to get you here, Y/N. Don’t be mouthy to me.
What do you mean by ‘I pulled a lot of strings’ ? Are you really just a disembodied voice?
You’ll find out soon, Y/N.
God, could you be a little less cryptic and a little more helpful?
Fine. Go downstairs after you’re done with your drink, and meet Dami there. She’s arranged for you to stay in a home with another family… but it’s not going to end well.
Not going to end well? Do you mean for me or for the family?
I wish I meant the family, Y/N. I truly do.
…How bad is it?
A strong reminder of your home at best.
Oh, god, it’s that bad…
I can only do so much, Y/N. You’ve gone through so much, and I don’t wish to see you suffer anymore. Life, to a certain extent, is about overcoming the pain that you experience. I want to do more, but I can’t.
Thanks for the effort.
Anytime, Y/N, anytime.
You gently sip the drink until it is gone, and then you head downstairs to meet Dami.
~
You place the mug in a nearby sink before walking into the shop area of Dami’s place.
Wow, this place is really cozy and relaxing.
Incense burns in a small glass dish as the shelves of herbs and bitter medicines meet your eyes. A shelf of books is tucked away into a back corner, along with a chair and a small table that has a candle on it. The counter of the shop runs along the opposite side of you, and its stone composition is mostly covered by a nice purple tablecloth. A small oak door divides the shop from the outdoors, and Dami is standing close to the door along with an older couple.
They don’t look much older than 40 or 50.
Considering the fact that the life expectancy of this time period is much shorter than yours, I’d say that they are pretty old.
I don’t want to think about death anymore than I have to.
Suit yourself.
You nervously walk towards the party of three until you catch Dami’s attention.
“Ah, here is the person I was telling you about. Y/N, meet Mr. and Mrs. Kim. They’ll be taking you in until you can get on your own feet.” Dami explains as she gestures towards the couple.
A bit of anxiety develops in your body as you greet the couple in front of you.
“We’ve really needed an extra hand around the house. We’re so glad to meet you, Y/N.” Mr. Kim talks as Mrs. Kim nods her head.
“I feel the same.” You mumble as the cogs in your head start turning.
I’m going to be doing all of their housework, and they’re going to treat me like crap because they think I’m less than them.
Bingo.
The three of them chat for a while until you hear a carriage approach.
“Well, it’s been great seeing you, but we have to be on our way. C’mon, Y/N.” Mrs. Kim waves you forward as Mr. Kim holds the door for both of you.
You climb into the carriage, and you watch Dami wave at you all through the tiny window as the carriage pulls away from her small abode.
~
A bead of sweat rolls down your face as you tirelessly scrub the dish in the sink.
God, why does it have to be so warm? The weather back home is so much more comfortable than here.
You sigh in relief as you place that final dish out to dry.
I’ve finally finished washing their clothes, scrubbing the floors, dusting, and washing the dishes. Maybe I can have some free time…
“Y/N, I need you to run out and gather a few things from the market.” Mrs. Kim calls from another room.
Damn it.
“Yes, ma’am.” You tiredly say as you walk into the room.
I’ve been working to the bone for two weeks with no sign of Dami anywhere. Is this suppose to be a romance, or absolute torture?
Have patience, Y/N. Good things come to those who wait.
I don’t need the proverbs, but thanks for the help.
You bow before grabbing the paper list from the matriarch of the house.
“I need you back in two hours. You still need to tend to the garden while I take the girls to meet their suitors.” She waves you off as you bite your tongue.
Those girls are just as much of a nightmare as their parents, and I’m glad that I don’t have to deal with them.
You quietly slip out of the back door of the house. You had been given a small shack in the back of their house to live in. With no money or furniture, you had to do the best with what you could.
I haven’t had a proper meal or slept well in two weeks. I miss my bed and actually edible food.
You enter your shack for a brief moment, just so you could change out of your working clothes.
You exit the shack, and you enter the house unnoticed.
Good. I’m not trying to draw attention to myself.
You carefully walk through the house until you reach the front door.
This place would be so beautiful if I didn’t dislike the people who lived in it.
You quietly open the front door so as to not disturb the family.
~
Eggs, milk, bread, and silk. I’m just missing cinnamon and nutmeg.
You recount everything in your small yet overflowing basket as you walk through the market.
I haven’t seen a spice seller here, and I don’t have much time left.
As you round another corner, you see a cart full of spices.
Thank goodness!
You happily approach the cart with the small amount of money that Mrs. Kim had given you along with the note.
I might even have some left over to buy something for myself.
It doesn’t take you long to grab the cinnamon and nutmeg, and you quickly walk over to the seller.
“Ah, I’m so sorry, but those have been spoken over. In fact, most of the cart has been bought already.” The owner gently takes the spices from your hand.
You’ve got to be kidding me.
“You don’t have any extras?” You ask softly, and the owner shakes his head.
“I’m so sorry, but you’re more than welcome to speak with the person who bought them.” The owner gestures behind you.
You turn around, only to see Dami looking back at you.
“Y/N? You look so… different from when we first met. Have you been doing alright?” Dami gently asks as she approaches your side.
I suppose that it’s not the best idea to tell her what’s really been going on?
Now you’re starting to get it!
“I just haven’t been sleeping well, that’s all.” You wave off her concerns.
“You look like you haven’t eaten in days. Are you sure that you’re okay?” The concern in her voice strikes you as her eyebrows furrow in worry.
Why does she care so much for someone that she met once, and then handed off to some stupidly rich people?
“I’ve just been… struggling to adapt to everything. It’s all so new and overwhelming.” You ashamedly look away.
“I see.” Dami backs off for a moment. “Why are you here, then?”
“Mrs. Kim sent me to grab some things from the market,” You gesture to the basket in your hands, “and I haven’t been able to locate any cinnamon and nutmeg.”
“Here, take these.” Dami slips past you and grabs the spices. “I was just grabbing extras for my shop, but you should take them.”
She places the spices into your basket. You attempt to hand her the coins that you have, but Dami closes your hand around the money. Your stomach clenches as a slight blush rises on your face at her touch.
“Keep it for yourself.” She insists as she looks at the spice display.
“Thank you.” You instinctually bow before scurrying off to the Kim Manor.
This is so embarrassing. I wish that we didn’t have to meet under these circumstances.
~
Another day passes in the Kim household, and you’re back to doing your long daily list of chores. A knock on the door interrupts your afternoon window washing.
“I’ll get it!” One of the Kim girls cries out before knocking you over to get to the door.
I’m so looking forward to never stepping another foot in the household again.
You hear the girl converse with the stranger at the door as you pick yourself up and finish washing the last window.
The youngest Kim peeks into the room. “Hurry off, Y/N. We have company, and we don’t need them seeing you like that.”
The venom in her voice causes you to move at a faster pace.
The last thing I need is her tattling to her parents.
“I’m sorry, Ms. Kim. I’ll get out of your way immediately.” You collect your cleaning supplies before quickly abandoning the room.
You place the supplies into a cabinet before heading into the kitchen to work on putting the dishes away from yesterday. You hear two sets of footsteps enter the living room from the front room.
“We have company!” The youngest cries out before running off.
Another set of gentler footsteps enter that room.
I know it’s bad to eavesdrop, but they’re literally in the room next to me. I can’t help it…
“Ah, Ms. Dami. What a pleasant surprise!” Mr. Kim’s firm voice rings out from the other room.
Why is Dami here in this house?
“I could say the same. Do you have a place where we could chat?” Dami gently asks.
“Here is fine. What do you wish to discuss?”
“I have some concerns about Y/N. I ran into them at the market, and they look like they have not been doing well. Do you have any idea why this might be?”
A heavy blush covers your face.
She cares that much for me? I thought Dami was just being nice yesterday. She wouldn’t just show up at the manor house if she did not care for me.
“No, I had no idea. I’ll make sure to address it immediately.” The tone of Mr. Kim’s voice causes goosebumps to run over your skin.
That doesn’t sound good.
“You wouldn’t know of anyone who would be preventing Y/N from sleeping or eating, right?” An unmistakable sliver of anger enters Dami’s voice.
“If I didn’t know you better, I would say that you’re accusing me or someone in my family of abusing a poor immigrant. You know that we’re not those sorts of people, Dami, so why enter our home and accuse us of such a thing?”
God, he’s such a liar.
You hear someone clear their throat, and you look over to see Mrs. Kim glaring at you.
“How dare you eavesdrop into private conversations!” She accuses before marching over to you.
You can no longer hear Dami or Mr. Kim over the sound of your rapidly beating heart. You can only watch in horror as Mrs. Kim raises her hand and connects it with your face.
You only whimper as the impact sends you to the floor. The dish that you were washing collides with the floor, and it makes a loud sound on impact.
Trying to hold back tears, you sniffle as you look up at Mrs. Kim.
“Now look at the mess you’ve made. This better be cleaned up before dinner.” She hisses before quickly exiting the room.
With shaky hands, you’re able to collect the glass without cutting yourself. You dispose of it in the garbage before grabbing a broom. You gently sweep up the small shards of glass as tears gently fall down your face.
“Hey, is everything alright here? I heard something break.” Mr. Kim walks into the room before speaking.
“I just dropped a plate, sir.” You mumble as you look him in the eyes.
“And you’re crying because…?”
“The sound startled me.” You lie as you sweep the glass over to the garbage can.
“Oh.” He shrugs before moving aside. “Our visitor was concerned about you. See, they’re fine.”
Mr. Kim gestures to Dami as she enters the room. You refuse to look at her as you carefully put the glass into the trash.
A gentle hand on your back startles you.
“Let me help.” Dami says as you move over.
She grabs the washcloth from the sink before gently picking up the glass with the wet washcloth. You watch her every move as she cleanly and efficiently moves the glass into the trash can.
“It’s a trick that I learned. When you work with a lot of glassware, you’re bound to break something once in a while.” Dami explains as you look at her in admiration.
“Ah, how useful. I’m glad you showed Y/N that.” Mr. Kim states before leaving the room.
You set the broom aside as you brush more tears out of your eyes. Dami gently observes you as you return to washing the dishes.
“Did the noise scare you?” She gently asks.
More tears flow out of your eyes as you slowly nod your head.
“I’m sorry.” She mumbles before gently wrapping her arms around you in a gentle yet welcoming embrace.
You don’t hesitate to hug her back.
This is the nicest anyone has ever been to me since I got here.
With that realization, you start sobbing as you let out the stress of the last two weeks.
Dami simply runs her hands through your hair as you start to calm down.
She starts to talk as your tears turn into sniffles.
“I promise that you can stay at my shop when I get a little more room, okay? You’re obviously not happy here.”
“Really?” You look at her with more optimism than you’ve had in days.
“Absolutely. Anything for a friend.” She smiles as you slightly squeeze her.
I’d like to have a friend, especially right now.
~
Dami kept good on her promise, and within a few days, you were moved from the Kim Manor to Dami’s small home. She had set up an extra bed for you to sleep on in one of the back rooms of the shop. She apologized multiple times for the size of your bed, but you were so thrilled to have a bed that you didn’t care.
You often fell asleep looking at mixtures of herbs, and sometimes, you couldn’t help comparing your relationship to Dami with those mixtures that sat on wooden shelves.
Our relationship is a confusing mixture of emotions. She gives so many mixed messages, and I don’t know where we stop being friends and start being more.
Dami brought you breakfast every day, and she always sat by your side so you would have someone to be with. Most of the time, she would simply read a book while you ate. Your eyes wandered to her or the only window in the back room.
I wonder if she looks at me the same way I look at her…
Dami liked to gently run her hands through your hair during slower days at the shop. She taught you how to run the shop alongside her, so it was hard to escape her intoxicating presence.
She liked to intertwine your hands while you idly sat and waited for someone to walk through the doors. Dami wouldn’t talk often during those times, but you valued her sweet voice when she talked.
Especially whenever she compliments me!
She didn’t often compliment you, but they were so genuine and sweet that you often found yourself craving her praise whenever you did something well.
“You’re doing great, Y/N. You’re such a bright student, and you wouldn’t have an issue learning anything.”
“I wish that I was as good with people as you are. You always know what to say to people. I suppose that’s why we make a great team.”
“Did I ever tell you how much your smile makes my day? Your whole presence makes me happier every single day without fail.”
Words like those never fail to make a sea of butterflies appear in your stomach. You always blushed whenever she said or did something that you interpreted as romantic, but she always ignored your reaction to her perceived flirting.
I guess I was wrong, then… but she’s giving me so many signs.
“Hey, Y/N, do you want to gather some ingredients with me? I could use an extra hand.” Dami’s voice pulls you out of your daydream.
“Of course.” You smile as Dami takes your hand.
“Come, then. We have no time to waste.”
~
You’re confused as Dami approaches a field of flowers a bit before the sun sets.
“I just need a few of the flowers over there.” Dami points to a small group of flowers at the top of a hill.
She hands you a glass jar as you eagerly run up to the hill.
These flowers are so beautiful! Wait, did she say what kinds of flowers she needed?
You’re confused, and you try to look back at Dami for help. She’s gently plucking a few flowers from the bottom of the hill, so you decide not to bug her.
You look at the flowers again, only to see a small firefly floating in the air. The soft glow from its back lights up the small area of flowers for a moment before fading away.
I never was able to catch fireflies as a kid… I’m sure that I could catch a few now!
You don’t hesitate to chase after the small lightning bug as his body glows once again. You quickly catch the bug before gently placing him in the jar. You screw on the lid, and you watch as the bug glows once again.
You watch as the field of flowers begins to glow as more fireflies appear around you. You can’t help but try to catch them as you begin to laugh merrily.
This is the most fun I’ve had in years! I feel like a child again.
As you catch your fifth firefly, you stuff him into the jar before screwing the lid on for the last time. You watch as the five of them create a wondrous display of tiny lights for your eyes.
“Dami!” You call out. “Dami, look!”
When you get no response, you rapidly look around, only to see Dami staring at you from the bottom of the hill. She’s sitting down with her head in one of her hands while giving you a look of pure admiration.
The soft realization hits you as you blush heavily.
Dami set this up, and she’s been watching me the whole time.
You gently make your way down the hill as you try to think of what to say.
How do I say anything to her? I’m even sure what to think myself.
“Were you watching me the whole time?” You softly ask as you reach the bottom of the hill.
“You caught me, I guess.” A slight blush rises on her face as she stands up to meet you.
You clutch the jar of fireflies closer to your chest.
“Did you even need anything in the first place?” You jokingly accuse her.
“Not really. I heard that the fireflies come out during this time of day, and I wanted to take you out to see them.” She says.
“Then why not ask me directly?”
“...Because that would imply my strong interest in you.” Her blush grows slightly stronger as you decipher her words.
So instead of directly asking me on a date… she tricked me into going on a date with her so that I wouldn’t think it was a date. What kind of logic is that?
The logic of a lovesick woman, Y/N.
Oh god, you’re right.
“What makes you think that I’m not interested in you? I mean, I’m here and we’re having this conversation. That obviously has to mean something.” You reason with yourself as the words come out of your mouth.
“Do you want it to mean something?” Dami asks.
“Of course I do! I’ve been silently admiring you for weeks and I really want to be here with you. Why wouldn’t you think that I-”
You’re shushed by the warm sensation of Dami’s lips on yours. The jar of fireflies slips out of your hand as you enjoy the sweet feeling that surrounds your body. You immediately wrap your arms around her as her hands meet your waist.
She pulls you close as soon as your lips disconnect from hers.
“I’m sorry for not saying anything earlier.” She mumbles into your ear.
“I’m glad you said something now.” You whisper back.
You both stand in silence while wrapped in each other. The fireflies surround you in a swarm of beautiful lights. You can’t help but admire the serene scenery around you.
Could I ask for anything better than this? I think not.
~
The soft feeling of lips on your forehead causes you to stir from your sleep.
It’s so early. Who’s waking me up?
You roll over to see Dami standing over your bed.
“Good morning, dear. I brought you breakfast. How did you sleep?” She asks as you sit up in bed.
You yawn for a moment before answering.
“Good. I’m just a bit sleepy.”
“That’s good.” She smiles before placing the tray on your lap. “I’ve got to take care of a few things in the shop before I open. Just meet me there when you’re ready.”
Dami presses a soft kiss to your cheek before exiting the room. You find yourself missing her warmth as you stare at the food in your lap.
This reminds me of the food cooked at home. It’s been so long since I’ve been home… Has it been weeks? Months? I just cannot remember anymore, but I’m so happy that I couldn't care less.
Don’t you miss home just a bit?
I do, but I’m happy here. Shouldn’t that count for something?
It does, Y/N. I’m just reminding you that you still have four more lovers to meet.
Am I going to die again? Please, I can’t do that anymore.
No, you’re going to be fine, Y/N. Just breathe and relax. You’ll be back home once the day’s over.
Thanks for the warning. Now I can properly say goodbye to this whole world, along with Dami.
You’re welcome. Enjoy the day and I’ll see you in another night.
…Bye, I guess?
You carefully eat the warm food as you try to think about what to do to make this last day count.
~
Dami wraps her arms around you in a tight back hug as you watch the sunset together.
It might have been a less than eventful day, but I don’t regret anything. I feel at peace now.
“Thank you, for everything.” You mumble softly as the sun sets past the horizon.
“You know I’d do anything for you, Y/N. You don’t have to thank me.” Dami kisses the back of your head.
You giggle as you pull her arms around you more.
“I just want to let you know how much I love you.” You smile as you fight to stifle a yawn.
“I love you too.” She mumbles, and you break out of her embrace to give her a soft kiss on the lips.
Afterwards, a yawn escapes your lips.
“Let’s get you to bed. You need the rest.” She insists as you walk to the bedroom.
You carefully climb into bed as you pull the covers over you. Dami takes your hand and gives your hand a kiss. You, in return, press a kiss to her cheek.
You both chuckle at the affection before you yawn again.
“Goodnight, Y/N. I’ll see you in the morning.” Dami leaves your room as your tired mind does not fully register her words.
“I’ll see you then, too.” You mumble sleepily before slipping into a long and peaceful sleep.
A/N: Hi guys, girls, and non-binary pearls! I hope you had a good Christmas! I wasn’t exactly sure when I should publish this, so I decided to do it now. Although, it was supposed to be after yesterday’s announcement, and I wonder if you all will be able to gues why...
TW: Break-ups, reminiscing about past romances, Dami’s kind of a cruddy girlfriend, a healthy mix of fluff and angst; unlike Campbell’s Chicken Noodle Soup, writing this piece was not good for my soul and I shall now go back to my realm of writing Dami fluff
Prompt: “I’m pretty sure if Taylor swift and I were in a competition of who could write the most breakup songs in one night, I’d win by a landslide because I still set two plates out for dinner even though I eat alone and it’s almost pathetic because we’ve been broken up for ages, but I’m still not over you.”
This was a bad idea. I knew this was a bad idea, but I continued on anyway.
You try to shake off the feeling of dread that’s surrounded you.
It’s just a bunch of notebooks and college textbooks. They can’t harm you, Y/N. At least they won’t harm you as much as she has.
You bite your lip as you push the bin of papers and college mementos back into your closet.
I shouldn’t have tried to do this today. It’s been a year since we broke up, but that wound is still fresh. I knew that I had her college stuff in here, so why did I try to organize my closet today? Am I really that desperate for the past, or was this just an innocent mistake?
You close your closet door as you squeeze your eyes shut.
She’s not worth your time; hell, she told you that herself. It’s time to do something else now. I can’t sit around and mope all day.
The familiar grumble of your stomach gives you an excellent idea.
Dinner! Food and cooking always distracts me from my bad thoughts. I should start working on it now so I can eat at a decent time.
~
“I missed you, darling.” Dami whispers as she wraps her arms around your waist.
You giggle as you pull yourself away from the stove.
“Did you have a good day at work? You’re usually not like this.”
“I was just looking forward to coming home to you.”
Dami’s words ring in your ear as you blush and smile.
“Do you really mean that?”
Dami softly scoffs. “You know me better than that, dear. I would never lie about loving you.”
You focus on taking a deep breath as the memory fades from your mind.
It’s just a thought; a glimpse into the past that you cannot undo. Relax and focus; you’ll burn the soup at this rate.
You sigh sadly as you continue to stir the soup in front of you. You feel your mind begin to slip back to her, but you’re too emotionally tired to fight your heart.
“Baby!” You yell as Dami walks through the door.
“Hmm?” Dami looks up, only to see you excitedly hug her.
“You were gone too long. I missed you.” You mumble into her as her chest vibrates from laughter.
“I had a few errands to run after work, sweetheart. I will never forget about my promise to have dinner with you.” Dami affectionately runs her hand up and down your back.
“Never? Even when you get busy at the hospital?” You anxiously look at her after pulling away from her chest.
“Never. I’ll always keep my word to you.” Dami presses a soft kiss to your cheek. “Now, what shall we make for dinner tonight?”
Your eyes glance over to the clock as you absentmindedly take the soup off of the stove.
It’s 6:30, which is around the time that Dami would come home. No wonder why I’m thinking about her so much…
You place a hot pad on the counter before setting the soup pot down.
I wonder if Dami would still like my cooking… who knows? I certainly don’t, and I’m not sure if I would want to know.
You grab yourself a bowl, silverware, and a glass as another memory floats to the front of your mind.
“Dami? Is that you?” You yawn after speaking as you flip a light switch on.
“Yeah, it’s me.” She rubs her eyes tiredly as she slowly walks into the living room.
“Another late shift?”
“Yep. I’m sorry that I wasn’t home earlier, my love. I’m sure that whatever you made was great.” She yawns as she tosses her coat and bag on the counter.
“You haven’t been home for a week straight.” The tears start to fall out of your eyes as you acknowledge the pain that you’re in.
“There’s nothing I can do about it. I wish that I could be with you more, but it’s just not possible at the moment.” Dami looks at you sympathetically as you meet her eyes.
“So you’re choosing your job over our relationship?”
“Y/N, that’s not what I-”
The slamming of your shared bedroom door tells Dami that you’re not in the mood to talk, so she goes about getting ready for bed without you by her side.
As you ladle yourself out some soup, you’ve realized your dire mistake.
I set out two bowls instead of one. I must’ve been so busy thinking about her that I thought she was actually here.
You shake your head as you go to sit and eat.
Man, I really need a life.
You turn on a TV to watch, but you’re too deep in your thoughts to pay attention to what’s going on.
Tears prick your eyes as you adjust your outfit again.
It’s 10:30 p.m., you think. Why isn’t she here yet? Dami said that she would get off at eight.
The nice dinner that you prepared has cooled down to room temperature, and your heart and mind are in conflict with one another.
Your heart tells you to stay. Dami always said that she loved you, and she always kept her promise. She wouldn’t have asked you to marry her if she didn’t love you with all of her heart.
Your mind, on the other hand, tells you to leave. She’s hurt you so many times with her absence. Can you really stay with someone who makes you so unhappy?
You fiddle with the engagement ring on your finger as your mind makes the decision for you.
You stand up and fix your outfit once again as Dami walks through the front door.
“Y/N, love, I’m so sorry that I was-”
You look up at her with tears streaming down your face.
“I thought you loved me.” You mutter.
“I do, Y/N, I really do. We can still have dinner and everything if we-”
Dami’s stunned into silence as you slip the engagement ring off of your finger.
“Go give your excuses to somebody else. I can’t do this anymore, Dami.”
You gently toss the ring on the table as you move towards the front door.
Dami blocks your way, and she gently grabs your wrist.
“Y/N, please.” The complete and utter desperation in her eyes forces you to stop.
“You had your time to fix your mistakes. We’re over, Dami, whether you like it or not.”
You pull your wrist back as you briskly walk out of the front door.
You gaze at the empty bowl of soup in front of you.
I guess I was really hungry. I can grab seconds too since I have that whole pot to myself now. That’s a new benefit of being single, I guess. You don’t have to share everything.
You head into your kitchen, and you’re about to ladle yourself more soup before knocking on the door stops you.
I wonder who would be visiting at this time.
You peek through the peephole on your apartment door, but you can’t make out the person from there.
I have to open the door, I guess.
You set the bowl aside before opening the door.
My goodness… is that who I think it is?
Dami, in the flesh and blood, stands right outside of your door. She anxiously taps her foot as she looks up at the ceiling.
What is she wearing?
A black suit accompanies her short hair as a blowing red cape falls around her back. A large amulet of sorts hangs around her neck.
There’s no wind in here, so why is her cape blowing? More importantly, why is Dami at my front door?
“Hey, Y/N.” Dami greets you with a smile. “Can we talk? I don’t know anyone else that would be willing to talk to me.”
It takes every bit of mental strength to keep yourself from shutting the door in her face.
Listen to what she has to say, and then make a judgment.
“I know that things didn’t end well between us, and it’s probably a horrible idea for me to be standing out here. I mean, I expected you to shut the door in my face by now, but I-”
You hold out a hand to stop Dami from babbling on.
She’s changed a lot within a year. I wonder if she thinks the same about me…
You sigh heavily as you shake your head.
“Come on in.” You wave her in before closing the door behind Dami.
“I’m sorry. Was I interrupting something?” Dami gestures to the two bowls sitting next to each other.
“No, no… I just got distracted and I accidentally got out two bowls. Feel free to grab some soup if you haven’t eaten already.” You offer as your mind begins to stir.
That’s a lie and a half, but there’s no way that I’m telling Dami to her face that I miss everything about her.
Dami nods before graciously accepting your offer. The two of you sit at your dining table as you watch her eat.
I miss living with someone.
“So, do you want to explain to me why you’re here?” You cross your arms as Dami glances up at you.
“Ah… it’s a bit of a long story. Do you have time?”