After doing the math I think we have enough people willing to participate to make Jumin Week 2024 a reality
About the prompts, I thought we could go with the second most voted theme from last year: that's it The Language of Flowers.
Now, as maybe you know, there's a TON of flowers with meaning because the Victorians were super repressed! So, to make things simpler I thought to use the wedding bouquets from The RFA last year which are exactly 7 flowers. Fortunately someone on Instagram made a post about it, so I'm posting it now so you can start working on the prompts until we have the schedule ready and pretty 🙂:
Also, because I suppose those who voted for flowers already had an idea what they wanted to write/draw/etc, I'm open to suggestions about what flower they want to be included as a prompt, so feel free to send an ask if you want to request a specific flower, but only if you are going to participate as a writer/an artist/etc.. (btw Jumin's bouquet is the Serbian Bellflower, that would be our prompt for his birthday 👀)
Also I'm going to make a poll whether we are having a parallel theme or not, with the tarot cards Major Arcana (but on the weekend, super tired right now OTL)
Let me know what you think? Do you like this theme? Any suggestions? Doubts? Feel free to drop an ask or comments in the tags/reblogs! Remember this may be the last Jumin Week so don't keep to yourself anything!
(if you are new and have any doubt you can also check this blog for past submissions)
For The Han!!! 👑✨💜💜💜
Edit: I forgot to mention Jumin Week starts on the 5/10 with Jumin's Birthday for time reasons.
“You are adorable, Jumin,” she said, watching his jaw muscles tighten and his eyes flicker to hers. She was savoring the way he began to blush when he pulled her into another hug, leaning down to embrace her completely.
“That title is reserved for you,” he mumbled, almost in a pout, making her heart flip at the uncharacteristic way he’d spoken.
“We can share,” she responded, hearing him laugh through his nose quietly.
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She hummed lightly to herself, ambling slowly past the shops as she made her way toward Jumin’s apartment building. She was early; he wouldn’t be home from work for another 20 minutes, so she decided to take her time on her way to see her fiancé.
As she approached the small flower shop on the corner, she wondered why the cozy storefront always made her stop and admire all of the different arrangements. Bending down to smell a gorgeous bouquet of lilies, she smiled and wondered if Jumin would enjoy receiving a bouquet of flowers.
Since the beginning of their engagement, she’d been hesitant about giving Jumin gifts. It wasn’t as if he didn’t already have everything, and all of his clients and business partners often provided unsentimental gifts whenever they held meetings or finalized deals. It felt like a losing game for her to try and one-up any previous gift he’d gotten, but that didn’t mean she didn’t want to try.
She glanced around until she found a small, simple bouquet that made her smile. It had a mixture of red and pink roses, daisies, and some gentle, green foliage that made it just intricate enough that she thought it would do.
After purchasing the arrangement and speaking with the shopkeeper about how inviting their storefront was, she continued along the path toward the apartment building. She was thinking it would be a nice change of pace for her to meet Jumin up in the penthouse when he arrived home instead of in the lobby.
She smiled to herself as she rode the elevator up, exchanging a friendly greeting with the chief of Jumin’s security once she’d arrived at the top floor.
“Is there anything you need from us, Miss MC?” he wondered, keeping pace with her as they walked toward the entrance to Jumin’s penthouse.
“Will you make sure he knows I’m already up here when he arrives? I don’t want him to wait for me downstairs,” she smiled, bowing gratefully as he agreed and opened the door for her.
“Thank you,” she grinned, feeling the familiar smell and noise of his apartment settle around her. Elizabeth the 3rd called out to her from Jumin’s room, meeting her at the door excitedly only moments later.
“Hello, lovely!” MC smiled, reaching down to pet her as she slipped her shoes off. She made her way through to the kitchen as the cat followed where she grabbed a simple vase from the cupboard. She prepped the flowers, arranging them nicely and leaving the display visible on his kitchen island.
“Do you think he’ll like it?” she whispered to Elizabeth, receiving a soft meow in reply and chuckling to herself.
“I hope so,” she replied, removing the informational card that came with the flowers from its packaging and leaving a simple ‘I love you’ on the backside.
After only a few more moments, she heard the distant ding of the elevator arriving at the top floor. She headed toward the entryway, turning the corner just as he opened the door and met her eyes in anticipation.
Seeing Jumin soften as soon as he laid his eyes on her was always one of her favorite parts of the day. The slope of his shoulders became less intense, his hands relaxed, and the set of his brow eased up so much that she wondered if it hadn’t been hurting all day.
“Welcome home,” she smiled, rushing over to meet him with a swift kiss and a lingering hug. He pulled her close by the small of her back, exhaling slowly against her and humming a mumbled hello into her ear.
“My last meeting didn’t run over. Was there another strange man in the lobby today?” he wondered, pulling away from her to look her once over. She chuckled, reaching up to loosen his tie slightly and fix a few stray hairs.
“Oh, I can’t meet you up here?” she teased, stepping only a pace away so he could put his briefcase to the side and shrug off his suit jacket. He first replied with a low laugh, lifting an eyebrow at her.
“I’ll admit that I prefer you waiting here in a safe place, but I’m just curious as to why,” he explained, leaning forward to place a soft kiss on her forehead as he awaited her answer.
“I brought a gift home and didn’t want it to be spoiled for you right away,” she smiled, watching his eyes widen ever so slightly and flit around the room.
“A gift? What’s the occasion?” he asked, letting her take his hand and begin to lead him towards the kitchen.
“No occasion,” she shrugged, rubbing a thumb over the backs of his cold fingers. Once they had rounded the corner, she noticed how insignificant the bouquet looked in contrast to his exquisite kitchen and living space. Biting her tongue, she looked up at him, wondering if he would even notice that she’d placed it there.
Instead of looking right past it, she watched as his gaze moved quickly back and forth from her to the gift on the counter.
“You brought me flowers?” he asked, just above a whisper, the question making her stomach tighten even more.
“They made me think of you,” she replied weakly. He reached down to wrap her in a tight hug, making her blink in surprise and hesitate for almost too long in reciprocating his embrace.
“This was an absolutely lovely surprise to come home to,” he murmured into her hair, nearly lifting her off the ground as he pulled her tightly into his chest. She bit back a larger smile, lightly scolding herself for being so insecure.
“Thank you, darling,” he continued, pulling away only enough to kiss her cheek before hugging her tightly again.
“You’re welcome, Jumin. It can only convey a fraction of the love I have for you,” she replied in a whisper, feeling his hands twitch slightly as they splayed out across her back. He didn’t respond, pressing his lips down onto her shoulder for a long moment before finally pulling away.
She was surprised to see the highest point of his cheekbones had slightly reddened, his eyes having a gentle sparkle in them that might have just been from the setting sun across the horizon. He was focused only on her, placing a hand on her cheek and tilting her head up gently.
“I love you,” he said softly, making her heart stutter even though she heard him say it every day, multiple times a day. Placing her hand over his, she leaned into his touch, nodding in complete content.
“I love you, Jumin.”
—
It was only a few weeks later that she decided to get him another gift. They had started having lunch together at his office on a biweekly basis, and it had become such a highlight of her day that she wanted to express that to him somehow.
While exploring the antique shop in the basement of his apartment building one day after work, she came across a picture frame that stuck out to her. While admiring it, she thought of the perfect picture to frame inside it, quickly purchasing it and heading home so she could prepare the gift before their lunch meeting the next day.
“Good afternoon, Jaehee!” MC smiled, walking towards the assistant’s desk the following day and setting down the coffee that she had grabbed on the way. Jaehee smiled, her shoulders loosening as she laughed a little.
“I appreciate you,” she grinned, taking a small sip of the coffee as MC chuckled.
“And I appreciate you, ma’am,” she replied teasingly, knowing that Jaehee felt strange every time MC called her that.
“Enjoy your lunch,” Jaehee chuckled, turning her attention back to her computer screen. MC laughed to herself, walking past her desk and down the hall towards Jumin’s office.
He had begun to leave his door propped open when he knew she was coming, something he would have never done if not for her. She peeked past the door frame, seeing him nearly frowning as he concentrated on his monitor.
“Mr. Han?” she called, altering her voice ever so slightly. His eyebrows twitched downward, his fingers not faltering as he continued to type.
“Not at this moment. I’m waiting for my fiancée,” he replied, almost foregoing a glance in her direction. When he looked up, he immediately sighed in mock annoyance, raising an eyebrow at her.
“Should I have Assistant Kang alert me as soon as you arrive? You are something else, my love,” he teased, immediately standing and smoothing out his slacks as he started towards her.
“Have your phone update you when I arrive at this location if you’d like. It won’t stop me from messing with you,” she replied snarkily, laughing when he narrowed his eyes at her and playfully lunged forward to pull her into his chest. He started to tickle her, pressing multiple kisses to her cheeks as she squirmed. When his hands bumped hers behind her back as she hid her gift from him, he settled, pressing a soft kiss to her lips in greeting and looking at her curiously.
“Did Assistant Kang ask you to bring in a report?” he wondered, leaning forward to look over her shoulder. She pressed the picture frame tightly against her back, holding back a grin.
“No. I brought you something for your desk,” she replied, seeing his expression continue to grow in curiosity.
“My desk?” he repeated softly, stepping back from her so she could present it to him. She pulled it out from behind her back, revealing the picture frame that she had found. It was certainly old, being primarily made of black wood. The frame was outlined in worn, gold trim that had Victorian accents to it, making the whole thing remind her of Jumin. The picture she’d decided to place inside was the photo they’d taken when Jumin had finally convinced her to dress up in a couple’s Halloween costume together last Autumn. It always managed to make him laugh, even just a little.
She watched as his eyes widened and scanned the frame multiple times before he finally looked up at her, grinning briefly before dropping his smile to try and speak.
“It’s–” he started, laughing breathily and shaking his head. “I love this.” She watched him as her heart grew in her chest, her fingertips tingling at the amount of love for him flowing through her veins.
“I’m glad,” she replied softly, letting him take it from her hands and examine it more closely.
“I’ll keep it in my office here,” he nodded, taking her hand in his and leading her over to watch him place it on his desk. “Yes, I think this will be efficient in motivating me when I begin to tire.” He squeezed her hand in his as he continued to admire it, exhaling happily. She looked up at him, seeing how effortlessly he was able to smile and wondering if he had always been like this when he received gifts.
“You are adorable, Jumin,” she said, watching his jaw muscles tighten and his eyes flicker to hers. She was savoring the way he began to blush when he pulled her into another hug, leaning down to embrace her completely.
“That title is reserved for you,” he mumbled, almost in a pout, making her heart flip at the uncharacteristic way he’d spoken.
“We can share,” she responded, hearing him laugh through his nose quietly.
“Thank you for this thoughtful gift. Thank you,” he said softly as she closed her eyes, feeling her emotions bubble up into her throat. She wished she could always make him feel like this. There was so much love for him inside her, and helping to show him even a little bit of it felt like an accomplishment that she could be proud of.
Once she’d realized how meaningful gifts were to him, she put a little more thought into them, waiting for the perfect moment to surprise him with one in particular.
—
After another week of tight schedules, long meetings, and calls that seemed to drag, Jumin was finally finished. He’d been working tirelessly to lock in the biggest deal in years, and all of his efforts had paid off. He’d let everyone in the office go home early, and as he stumbled through the door that night, he felt blessed that his fianceé was already waiting there for him.
“Jumin, congrats!” she exclaimed, having tied up a few silver balloons around the apartment. He smiled tiredly, chuckling as she rushed over to meet him.
“Thank you, my love,” he replied, pressing a swift kiss to her cheek as she stood on her toes to hug him. He reciprocated her embrace, feeling the fuzzy edges of sleep threatening to close in already.
“I’m sure you’re exhausted,” she said, pulling back and taking his jacket for him. He shook his head minutely, smiling at the warmth that constantly emanated from her.
“With you here, I could run a marathon,” he replied, knowing that neither of them believed that. Jumin was more than ready to take time to rest, and he knew that he hadn’t succeeded in hiding how much of a toll the project had been taking on him the last few weeks.
“Okay, strong guy,” she snickered, hanging his jacket up and holding her hand out for him. “I have some wine ready, and I have a little present that I’ve been saving for this occasion.” He blinked down at her, following without complaint.
“You’re much too thoughtful. You didn’t have to go to the trouble,” he said softly, seeing her flash him a feigned look of offense.
“Trouble,” she scoffed, leading him over to the couch to sit down next to her. She handed him a glass of wine, pulling out a large box wrapped in purple and silver foil. Jumin hesitated to continue with the sip of wine he’d been taking, not wanting to stain anything as he moved forward in surprise.
“What kind of present is this?” he wondered aloud, setting the wine down on the coffee table as she giggled quietly next to him. He received the box into his lap, delicately breaking open the wrapping and taking the lid off the box.
Taking out the large, white item, it took his strained eyes just a moment to realize what he was looking at.
“Elizabeth, I think your father needs glasses,” MC muttered under her breath to the cat, glancing back at him as he held the object further away from himself.
“I’m…” Jumin started, trailing off as he struggled to contain the emotions that threatened to spill out.
She had gotten him a pillow of Elizabeth the 3rd’s face. There was no blur; it was a perfect replication of her beauty, and it was unlike any other gift he’d ever even heard of.
“I know it’s cheesy,” she chuckled lightly, looking over to see his eyes sparkling with tears. She blanched, panicking and scooting closer to him.
“I’m sorry, Jumin. Do you hate it?” she wondered, watching as he placed it in his lap and felt at the whiskers that had been placed in the cushion as if they were real.
“Why would you think that? This is the most amazing gift I’ve ever received,” he replied, looking at her in disbelief and awe. She held back a bigger smile, sighing quietly in relief and placing a hand on his shoulder.
“You think so? I wondered if you would like to put it on the couch in your office or in the study here at home,” she offered, watching him nod and blink his tears away.
“What an excellent idea. Every time I see this, I will think of my two favorite ladies in this world,” he agreed, moving the pillow back into the box for safekeeping and turning to face her. She grinned, slightly surprised when he pulled her into a hug where they sat.
“I’m sure you’ve had a long day, my love. Would you like me to run you a bath? Is there anything special you’d like to eat? We could even go out if you’d like,” he began, smoothing his hand over her hair as he spoke. She laughed lightly, shaking her head at the outpouring of affection her gift had spurred from him.
“No, I’m alright, Jumin. I’m just here to spend time with you,” she replied with a laugh still in her voice. He hummed, the sound buzzing through her collarbone as he pulled away to meet her eyes. They were filled with such intensity that she didn’t speak before he had a chance to.
“Do you know how much I love you?” he wondered, tracing a gentle finger over her cheek. She felt her heart flutter at his unexpected words, blinking up at him in surprise.
“You tell me every day,” she replied in a whisper, gripping the fabric of his shirt on his forearm that gently held her waist.
“That I do,” he nodded, holding her gaze as their breathing began to slow. “And I know that you love me too. It’s obvious,” he continued, moving forward to kiss the corner of her mouth. She felt her core begin to twist and butterflies begin to swirl, so she cracked a small smile.
“I didn’t realize you liked gifts so much, Jumin,” she said, barely able to speak above a whisper. He pressed another kiss to her cheek, his breath warming her face as he gently laughed.
“Gifts from you,” he clarified, his nose brushing hers as he locked eyes with her once more. She pressed her lips together in anticipation, feeling the heat of his hand against her waist begin to burn.
“You’re my gift.” His eyes looked between both of hers, his eyebrows drawing down ever so slightly before he dove down to bury his face in her neck and pull her into a tight hug once more. He’d lost the ability to form words, feeling like his heart would burst at any moment.
Neither of them let go for a long while, wondering if the other could feel how strongly their hearts were beating with love for each other.
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thank you all for reading! thank you as well for the overwhelming support you gave me on the first entry for this event! seeing reblogs and likes in my notifications is a lovely thing <3
Jumin held the phone between his shoulder and cheek, trying not to let it slip.
“Just…I don’t…ahh…” the phone fell to the carpeted floor. He picked it up in frustration, letting go of the fake spiderweb he had been trying to stretch across the bookcase. “This is ridiculous, why did I even think I could do this?”
“Settle down Jumin, you can. Also, what was that muffled sound? What are you doing exactly?” Saeyoung asked through the phone speaker.
“Trying to pull apart this stupid web while still listening to you. I only have two hands you know.” He said.
“Uh, you know you can put the phone on speaker right?” Saeyoung joked.
“Oh, right.” He felt like an idiot. Hitting the speaker button on the phone he set it down on a side table. “OK well, what do I do after I finish with the web?” he asked.
“Change out the bulbs in some of the lamps, you got the purple bulbs right?”
“Yes, I bought everything on the list you sent me.”
“Really? Wow, you really are going all out aren’t you?”
“It’s Lillie’s favorite holiday, so I want to make it special, and I don’t want her to lift a finger this year, I just want her to enjoy it for the entire month.”
“You could have just paid someone to do it, you’re filthy rich after all.” Saeyoung laughed.
“That wouldn’t be the same. I want to do the work and see the look on her face.” He was aware that it likely would look much better if he hired someone to decorate, but, he knew Lillie well enough to know that she would love it all the more because of his effort. Though he hadn’t thought he would be fighting with fake spiderwebs.
“I think I can handle placing the items in an aesthetically pleasing arrangement, however, I might need help again in setting up the fog machine for the cauldron.”
“Sure, I’m here all day! Sounds like you have things well in hand.”
“Indeed, if I require more hands, I’ll simply ask my security team. Thank you again Saeyoung for the support and suggestions.”
“Any time! Make sure you take pic…uh, that Lillie takes pictures!” he laughed.
Jumin grunted as he hit end call on the phone. He’d gotten better at taking pictures, it wasn’t his fault that the stabilization on his phone was finicky.
He was meticulous in his arrangement of the décor, not a single surface was without a Halloween item. With Saeyoung’s help, he’d even been able to create an actual bubbling cauldron that wouldn’t create and environmental hazard in the apartment.
Hours, he had been working for hours and the setting sun outside reminded him that Lillie was due to arrive home soon. He checked his watch and saw that he had only minutes. He turned off any lights whose bulbs hadn’t been changed, turned on the cauldron, and lit the candles. Fairy lights were strung throughout the decorations giving the areas a ethereal quality. The scent of pumpkin spice and apple cider wafted through the room as well. Satisfied, all that was left to do was wait.
It didn’t take long before he heard the rattle of the front door, hiding behind it as it opened inwards he held his breath for his love’s reaction.
He heard Lillie inhale as the scenery caught her attention. She took a few steps inside, her head scanning the entirety of his labor. Quickly he slammed the door closed and jumped at her with a loud “BOO!”
Lillie screamed and turned, her hand already balled into a fist before noticing that it was her beloved.
“Jumin! You scared me!” heart racing she doubled over in relieved laughter.
“I’m sorry my love, I couldn’t help myself.” He enveloped her into his arms and held her close as her heart regained equilibrium. “Do you like it?” he asked as he released her.
“Like it? I love it! How much did it cost to do this? You know I would have decorated myself.” She said, but her smile never left her face.
“Oh, well, the cost was only in supplies, I decorated.” Jumin said, running a hand through his thick black hair, a grin on his face. “Took several hours, but it was well worth it to see your reaction.”
“You…you did this? All by yourself?” she asked, turning to her husband, golden brown eyes wide.
“Saeyoung helped with some of the more intricate items, but I set it all up on my own. I just wanted to surprise you. I know how much you love this holiday and how hard you worked last year. I wanted you to just be able to enjoy the season this year and concentrate only on your costume for the party.”
“Party?”
“Absolutely, I think having a Halloween party here would be quite entertaining, don’t you?”
“Oh yes! That sounds wonderful!” Lillie threw herself on her husband and held him close, tears of joy filled her eyes and a wide smile plastered her face. “I can’t imagine being any happier than I am right now! Just…I…the thought and effort you put into all of this has me in tears. I love you so much Jumin.”
“I love you too. And I would do anything to see that radiant smile on your face for the rest of our lives.”
I was inspired by the 2 year anniversary picture for this one! Thought it was a good starting point for this prompt so I decided to use it! Also sorry but this one is a long one! (Nearly 2k words!!)
(Swimming pool vs beach)
@juminweek2019
Jumin sits under an umbrella at the side of the pool, observing the action happening in front of him. Splashing, playing, and fooling around wasn't on his agenda for the day. Instead, he planned to take this day as an opportunity to relax and take his mind off of all the stress work had given him.
The rest of the RFA, on the other hand, took this as a chance to have some much-needed fun together. Seven took this as an opportunity to mess around with everyone as much as possible, wearing a shark fin floatie on his back as he swims under the water to scare someone. I lost count of how many times he's knocked poor Yoosung out of his bright yellow duck ring. I can't help but feel sorry for that kid. Sort of. I must admit it's very entertaining to watch!
Zen and Jaehee attempted to play with an inflatable ball that resembles a watermelon with Yoosung but got distracted numerous times. I guess Zen thought it was funny to splash Jaehee at times where she'd least expect it. It might be to get her to relax. She's worked awfully hard too.
I sit at the edge of the pool, my legs submerged up to my calves in the cool water. I'm not quite on Jumin's level where I'd want to stay as far away from the pool as possible to avoid any mischief, but I'm not quite ready for any energetic interactions within the water yet. Sitting and swinging my legs in the water, creating small, therapeutic ripples across the water's surface is quite enough for me at this moment. It's relaxing to see everyone together and having fun! Even if V couldn't make it...
"MC!" I hear a voice call. I look up to see Yoosung waving his arm vigorously as he struggles to keep balance in his inflatable ring. The others all gather around him and look in my direction. "Come join us!"
"I will in a little bit!" I shout back, adjusting the pair of sunglasses sitting on my head.
"Okay!" His voice drift slightly as he starts to swim away.
"Don't be too long, yeah?" Zen adds, following on in Yoosung’s direction. Jaehee and Seven tag along behind.
A relaxed laugh emerges from my lips as I watch them slowly shrink in the distance the further away they get. A warm summer's breeze blows gently against by back, pushing my hair to expose my skin not covered by my swimsuit. The sun shines brightly, creating a shimmer across the water that bounces from the splashing that my friends create. It's like I'm lost in a trance. I feel so calm and happy.
"If you're not going to join them, why don't you join me?" A baritone voice suggests from above. I turn to see Jumin, his hair falling down in front of him as he tilts he's chiselled chin down to me. His sunglasses held to sit at the tip of his nose by his toned hand, staring at me with his grey eyes that I love so much.
"I thought you said you didn't want to get near the pool? Yet here you are!" I snicker jokingly. His lips pull up into a wholehearted smile, letting out a deep, playful sigh.
"May I?" He gestures to sit next to me. I lift my hand up out of the way and nod. The proximity closes quickly once he's sat by my side, his gaze not leaving my face. His hand sits where my own once laid, asking for mine to be placed on top. Our arms barely touching as we both have our legs dangling into the pool water.
It's nice to finally get him to join me. I didn't want him to sit so far away from everyone the whole day. I want to be able to spend some time together in the pool and have some fun! Even if he's not keen on that idea.
"Have I told you how beautiful you look right now?" My husband's voice barely a whisper. My cheeks heat up, turning red as if I've caught the sun.
"You have. If I recall correctly, that would have been the seventh time today!"
"And I'll happily keep telling you." His laugh melts my heart! I tangle my fingers on top of his and bring my body in closer. I feel his head lay on top of mine as I rest my face against his shoulder. The fabric of his buttoned shirt is like silk against my rosy cheeks. Just his presence alone makes this moment feel perfect and I somehow am able to relax even more.
We sit here together for a moment. Nothing ever beats being with him, even if there's other people around me who I care about. I wouldn't be able to be this still and calm with anyone else. I feel my eyes slowly close and a smile form on my face. This is really the best feeling. The sun on my face, the laughter of my friends and the presence of my husband. I couldn't as for anything more!
Suddenly the calmness is broken as I'm pulled to the ground. Jumins arms wrapped tightly around my body as if to protect me. His grasp as tight as a knot. I couldn't see what happened as my eyes were closed but when I open them again, I see Jumin's body on top of mine. I hear a burst of laughter from afar. I feel cold and wet on my legs as if I've been splashed. Is that what happened?
I look up over Jumin's shoulder to see Seven not far away. He's in hysterics over the action he just pulled. I can't believe he just splashed us!
The dark haired man lifts his body up from mine, looking rather uncomfortable at how drenched his back has now become. I cannot help but to start laughing. I cover my face to try and conceal my laughter but it only gets worse when I see him turn to face Seven.
"Luciel!" There's annoyance in his tone. Seven's joker smirk fades instantly and is replaced by wide eyes filled with fear. He retreats to the others as fast as he could swim to avoid any conflict from Jumin. My own laughter continues to grow.
Jumin's attention shifts instantaneously to me who is now trying to suppress as much laughter as possible. It's a near impossible task!
"Are you laughing at me?" A devilish smirk grows on his face, a glint of playfulness in his eyes. This doesn't help the giggles that are still seeping out of my mouth behind my hands. I shake my head, tears from the laughter threatening to now fall. My stomach now hurting too.
"You are laughing at me!" He snickers. His body leaning in closer to me. I lean back to avoid him, trying my hardest not to let him see how much the laughter is making me hurt.
His hand reaches into the pool and flicks forward, splashing me wet with the cold water. I squeal and flinch in response which only makes my laughter grow even more. I didn't think it was possible! Has Seven created a catalyst of events which are changing Jumin as we speak? Is Jumin… Fooling around?
"Now we're both soaked! Is that better?" My husband stands and cups my face in his hands. He places a loving kiss on my forehead before retiring back to his seat under the umbrella. My cheeks grow redder by the second.
"Oh, come on, Mr. Trust-fund! Seven was trying to do you a favour! Do you really plan on staying over there the whole day?" Zen yells, teasing Jumin into joining everyone in the pool. Jumin stops in his tracks and turns to look out at the pool. That playful glint still in his eyes.
"Luciel has already made me alter my plans..." He shoots back, shocking not only Zen but everyone else too. Even me! What exactly does he plan on doing? Jumin Discreetly removes his shirt, revealing his back before turning around. My heart begins to flutter but the others faces become even more shocked.
He adjusts his trunks and slicks his hair back when out of the blue he starts to run. His destination: the pool! What has gotten into him? This isn't like him! His feet leave the surface of the edge as he morphs his body to create the perfect dive. His body barely makes a splash when he enters the water. He's like a dolphin as he swims under the surface before emerging for air.
He flicks his soaked, ashy hair as his head exits the water and runs over it with is hands. I've become mesmerised by how stunning he looks! With the sun reflecting off of his dewy skin, it's hard to believe he's even real!
Everyone claps and cheers, amazed by what just happened. However, Jumin doesn't acknowledge the round of applause from the others. He only focuses on me.
He swims forward, meeting me at the edge of the pool, only a couple of feet away from where I sit.
"Will you join me, sweetheart?" he pleads with his arms wide open. "I'll catch you!"
My smile widens. I move to stand at the edge of the pool and prepare to jump in myself. Jumin readies himself, moving a little closer in the water. I jump. His arms stretch out and grab me around my waist as I enter the water.
He lifts me up, chuckling with joy. Seeing him act like this is in many ways alien but to me, it's a common sight. He treats me so preciously and shows his best self, his happier self, when he's with me. This is an example of that!
The others swim over to join us as Jumin lowers me back down into the water.
"I cannot believe you jumped in like that!" Yoosung exclaims excitedly. "That was awesome!"
"It was rather unexpected, I might admit." Jaehee humbly adds.
"Well, as we're all here now, are we going to go and have some fun?" Zen announces. Seven yells in response before diving back under the water with everyone following him.
This is honestly what I was hoping to get out of this trip. Everyone having fun! And I'm pretty sure we'll all have some fun now!
Old and grey, you and Jumin spend the day together and wonder what could possibly come next in your lives.
Word Count: 2,556
Hello! I’m sorry I haven’t posted for every day, this week (Not Jumin week but just this general week) has been maybe the most stressful of my life? Probably not, but I’ve barely had any good days these past couple months so maybe it’s just wearing down on me. But regardless, I truly hope you enjoy this prompt and you yourself have a terrific day! Thank you, dearies <3
Jumin woke in the morning with a yawn, the old familiar aches creeping in like the aged engravings of wood.
The spot in the bed beside him was sunken but empty, the bedsheets spilling over onto his side with the familiar, albeit faded smell of your perfume. It brought a smile to his face, his crow’s feet growing worse every day because of you and your innate talent of brightening his days.
He rose from the bed and his bones rattled in that curious way his father once warned him of.
But funnily enough, Jumin hadn’t felt the years go by.
He remembered all the birthdays, the celebrations, and even the downs alongside the ups.
Yet like a flowing breeze, it never weighed down upon him -- the loss of his youth never frightened Jumin. If anything a part of him had always looked forward to it.
After all, it meant Jumin grew old with you.
You both watched your hair fade to grey and wrinkles settle along your face in the nights full of quiet laughter where you’d draw along the outlines like one would with their palms.
Jumin found you outside on the balcony you’d transformed into a garden years ago. The sky overhead was almost cloudy but patches of sunlight still broke through, a stream of such light spilling onto you in a splash of warmth.
Jumin knelt down next to you, pressing a tender kiss to the side of your head.
“Good morning love.” He hummed, his voice low and crackling, far less smooth than it once was but far softer and kinder in turn.
You smiled and leaned into him, wisps of your grey hair winding ever so delicately with his fingers as he wrapped an arm around you, easing you close. Even now, years, decades, since you met, you remained tethered at the hip.
“Good morning!” You beamed, your cheeks rosy and bright. “Did you get the tea I left you in the kitchen? I just made it. It’s your favorite, lavender!”
“No, I must have missed it,” Jumin remarked. “I’d be more than happy to go get it if you’d join me.”
“And what of the flowers?”
“Surely they can withstand an hour on their own. I can have someone come up and care for them if you’d like.”
You paused and an amused tinge washed over your smile. “I suppose they could...” Your shoulders dropped with a sigh. “I don’t even know why I started this garden somedays.”
Jumin chuckled and rose to his feet, helping you up in return -- neither of you nearly as nimble as you once were.
“Well, if it’s any consolation, I quite like your garden.” He glanced back at their blooming petals, a myriad of shapes, sizes, and colors. “I especially like your forget-me-nots.”
“I would never not plant them!” As you both stepped inside you took a seat by the dining table and fiddled with your ring, the engravings weathered still just as true as the day you put it on your finger. “They were our wedding flowers.”
“Exactly.” He took the still steaming cup of tea in his hands, his palms warming at the very touch. He took a sip and it warmed his entire body in an instant. “Do you want anything, dear?”
“Oh no, I had honey and lemon earlier!” You sat back. “I watched the sunrise.”
“Why didn’t you wake me? You know I would’ve loved to join you.”
“You looked so peaceful!” You laughed and any symphony paled in comparison. “You used to so rarely get a full night’s rest -- I think you really needed retirement -- time for yourself... everyone needs it.”
“I didn’t have anything to retire for, once.” He stood beside you, setting a hand on your shoulder and squeezing it tenderly.
“You and Elizabeth 3rd could’ve gone on a wonderful vacation together.” You chimed. “I think she would’ve liked that.”
That sweet, darling cat with fur as white as snow and eyes like a crystalline sky had passed away years ago but lingered ever so present as though she never entirely left. Jumin still kept her collar hidden away in his coat pocket -- like she may appear missing the little chime of her bell.
She was family, as much as anyone else, but at least she left in her sleep, peacefully cuddled between the two of you, purring so loud and so sweet. That was all you could’ve asked for. However, you weren’t afraid to admit that tears still brimmed at the edge of your eyes thinking of it.
“It was a shame she never liked the leash.” Jumin simpered. “But without you, I don’t think our family would’ve ever been entirely complete.”
“Well don’t you worry,” You patted his hand and tipped your head up to give a grin as youthful as the day you met. “I’m not going anywhere.”
Jumin softened -- but weakened all the same.
How much longer could you truly keep that promise?
When you were younger that statement was so easy to say -- there was no sort of inevitability weighing down on your hearts. You married, you had a family, and you were utterly and absolutely blissful. None of that had changed.
But each and every day, Jumin woke up a tad bit more afraid that you wouldn’t be there beside him -- you’d be no more -- and all over again Jumin would be alone.
The world became dark and cramped at the very idea -- it was a world that he didn’t belong in -- a world foreign to-
“Jumin,” You squeezed his palm, snapping him back to reality. “I’m still here. I’m okay, and so are you.”
Jumin remembered to let out the breath caught in his throat and a weight lifted from his body he hadn’t even recognized -- like cinderblocks tethered to his ankles being unbound. He was here and now.
“R-Right... of course -- I’m sorry,” He folded his lips sheepishly, trying to undo the knot in his brow. “What would you like to do today?”
You stood up and wrapped a gentle hand around his cheek, your husband melting into the touch as if it were easier than blinking.
“I think a walk would be good.”
You always said that when Jumin needed to clear his mind.
The streets had become quieter as the years passed by. Perhaps all the honking horns and antsy tires dulled in his ears, but it no longer popped and crackled along the streets like it once did.
Jumin didn’t mind it -- if anything, it gave him more of a chance to notice other things. The people, their conversations, the sky, the shops, and you.
You chattered about all sorts of things and Jumin adored every minute of it. The second he chimed in you’d watch with wide eyes larger than dinner plates and Jumin couldn’t even finish without a smile stretching from ear to ear.
“You should’ve been a comedian you know,” You said as they dawdled, the clouds now having parted to reveal a sunny and warm afternoon. “I would’ve gone to every show.”
“Why do you say that?”
“I love your jokes. I loved it when you’d call me just to tell me one you’d think of in a meeting.” You bit back a snort. “There was one -- it was my favorite -- about cats... shopping...?”
Jumin was a tad bit embarassed that the joke came to him almost immediately. “Why don’t cats like shopping online...?”
“They prefer... prefer a... a cat-alouge!” Like a firework, you lit up. Jumin’s heart swelled at the sound of your laughter, overwhelming anything else around you in a sea of warmth and wonder. Nothing else mattered. “Ah -- that’s it!”
Jumin tipped his head to the side, smirking. “I don’t think my father would’ve approved of the career choice.”
“He would’ve come with me to every show,” You mused. “I’d drag him if I had to!”
“I sure you would’ve. I could always come out of retirement if you’d like.”
“I only want you to do what you want.” You ruffled his hair, curly strands falling over his face. “But I would help you write your routines.”
“Mmhm,” You shared a fond kiss and the faintest taste of tea still hung on your lips, sweet and warming. “As tempting as that sounds, I think I’ll stay right here.”
“I think that works just fine.”
With your arrival home came a rush of refreshing, cold air. The day was spent settled on the sofa with a book settled between the two of you. Jumin found himself enthralled with stories since he’d gained the time to actually read them outside the late hours of the night. Though, since you joined him, the two of you typically spent until those late hours of the night talking about the stories.
It was nice to finally have someone to talk to.
You brought that thought to his head often.
Yet as the evening trickled in with its colors of orange, yellow, and red, you rose from your spot beside him and stretched your weary limbs.
“I need to go check on the flowers. Will you be alright?”
Jumin chuckled. “Yes, of course, love.”
He watched you leave and listened to the sound of the door opening and closing with a faint tug of his heart. He knew it was silly, but he already missed you.
Goodness, how ridiculous he felt. How much worse would this be when you couldn’t come back? Not because you wouldn’t but because you couldn’t.
What would Jumin do when there was no longer you to wake up to?
Who would he look for in the mornings? Who would he spill all his thoughts and questions to? Whose smile and laughter could possibly even begin to light up his days like yours?
Who could Jumin ever possibly love in the unfathomably unmeasurable way he loved you?
Who could he spend his days with... if not with you?
What would even be the point of those days anymore? Without you, the world felt cold and unnerving -- like those craggy old spaces in Jumin’s mind full of tangles and twists that sent chills up his spine and lumps in his throat. He’d already lost so much -- the one thing he couldn’t stand -- couldn’t make it through -- was losing you.
Jumin’s vision blurred and a tear dropped fell to the page of the story still clasped in his hands.
He blinked slowly, suddenly a single instinct blazing through him as he scrambled for his phone, calling you.
Jumin could remember the restless nights he called you when you’d first joined the RFA. The way he spilled open his heart like the cracking walls of a dam, and how you listened -- ever so patient, and ever so kind.
He just wanted to hear your voice -- that was all. Just for a moment and he’d be fine. Wouldn’t he?
You answered.
“Jumin? Honey, why are you calling me? I’m just on the balcony, silly!”
“Love...” Jumin sat down, his leg thumping against the floor, restless. His voice threatened to break and grew softer by the second. “Could you promise me something?”
“What is it?”
“When... when one of us has to pass -- let it be me.” Jumin pinched the bridge of his nose with a shaky sigh. “I-I’m not ready to be without you. I don’t think I could do it.”
You didn’t speak, and Jumin thought he might shatter.
“Come outside.” You murmured. “Could you?”
“Ah... of course.”
The evening air was cool with the faintest tinge of stars creeping over the grand roofs of the skyscrapers. Perhaps were it any other situation Jumin would’ve stargazed with you until you were dozing off with yawns and heavy lids, but now all inside of him was a deep, black pit of fears breaking through in full force.
You gestured to him to a pair of seats overlooking the balcony, ornate and aged -- just like the two of you. He sat down across from you, your hand settling on his knee before he could begin tapping.
“Jumin, what’s going on...?”
“Are you telling me you haven’t thought of it?” He furrowed his brow. “Not even once?”
“Of course I have. We’re not young anymore -- and no one can avoid death,” You answered gently. “But I don’t think it does us any good to be afraid of passing on.”
You spoke gingerly, leaning close. “We don’t know what happens after all this. Who’s to say we won’t start all over again? Just a different life and a different place? Or maybe there’s an afterlife. Maybe there’s nothing at all.”
“I don’t understand.”
“Whatever it is -- wherever we end up -- we’ll find each other again.”
“Darling, you know I don’t believe in fate-”
“And who said it was going to be because of fate?” You scoffed, smirking. “I will do whatever I can to find you no matter where we are!”
Jumin raised his head, eyes widening in surprise.
You puffed out your cheeks indignantly, stubborn as always, but your words still wavering with overwhelming emotion. “I swore to you when we married that I would be with you forevermore. That doesn’t stop because of something as silly as dying!”
You took in a sharp breath, and a few tears broken from your eyes, pouring down your cheeks, Jumin immediately reaching out to wipe them away.
“As long as you love me, I will stay -- I’ll find a way to you,” You took his hand as it lingered on your cheek and held it close, clinging. “I’m just as scared but-”
“As long as there’s a chance, we’ll do everything we can to find each other again,” Jumin shifted to lean over you, pressing a kiss into your hair.
“And I’ll never stop loving you, so I suppose we’re stuck together.” He tipped his forehead against your own, your eyes puffy and gleaming with affection.
“I don’t want anyone else.”
Jumin embraced you and his arms wound around you like vines vying for sunlight -- so fervent and so desperate like it were all he ever wanted. Neither of you were ever quite sure when you’d let go -- and neither of you cared.
You weren’t young and youthful as you once were -- your skin was wrought with wrinkles and your hair was greyer than dust but your love hadn’t changed, not a bit. That adoration was still just as enduring and unending as ever -- and it would be, whether in this life or the next it would prevail.
You just had to find each other.
And neither you or Jumin would ever stop searching.
Man, I’m a day late for Day 5 of @juminweek but here’s my take of the prompt.
Of course, at first, I thought of his emotions held by his inner threads, just like he was before. However, a bigger part of me wanted to portray him being able to freely share his emotions, his love, without any fear or doubt. I want him to be able to love another person without the doubt that constantly clung to him throughout his life.
