Synopsis: Namjoon invited you to go to a banquet with him. You wanted to be mischievous and start teasing him to get under his skin. He doesn't know how long he can take all your teasing anymore.
Warings: degradation, praise, edging, slight exhibitionism/voyeurism, teasing, fingering, overstimulation, missionary, oral sex (receiving), thigh fucking, breast play, etc
Word Count: 2.4k words
Namjoon and all the other BTS members were invited to a yearly banquet for different K-pop groups. Since he is the leader of the group, all eyes will be on him tonight. He asked for you to come with him and of course, you couldn’t say no.
However, today you felt like being a little mischievous.
For the banquet, you decided to wear a long, slim tight red dress that showed off all your curves. The dress has a slit on your upper thigh which exposed a little bit of your leg. You knew he always had a thing for your thighs and legs. Your chest was exposed a little and it didn’t help that it was one of his favorite dresses you owned. He was the one that bought it for you since he thought red was your color and it looks good on you.
As you came downstairs, he waited by the door. As you were walking down, you saw his eyes do a full body scan from head to toe. You saw how his eyes lingered on your thighs. You knew the slit on your thigh always drove him crazy.
“Wow. You look so good baby. As always of course. You're really tempting me to bring you back upstairs and take that dress off you.”
You knew wearing this dress alone would drive him insane. That was your goal anyways. To see how far you can push him until he breaks.
“Aww, come on you know you can’t do that! You've been invited to this banquet and it's a really big deal. Let’s leave now so we won't be late.”
He nodded his head reluctantly and you both left the house.
You both arrived at the banquet and saw all the other BTS members there. You were assigned to the same table, naturally. You sat right next to Namjoon and got settled in. You guys all ate dinner, mingled, and overall had a good time. Later on, you both walked around to greet all the other idols that attended the event.
As you and Namjoon went back to your table, you decided to initiate your plans by teasing him. You were walking in a crowd of people and you wanted to be ahead of him. As you walk back, you slide in front of him and you shift your ass against him. You slowly grind against his crotch and he let out a groan in frustration.
“Fuck…”
The look on his face was almost cute to you because he was trying his best to hold back from making any noises.
“Stop it right now. Not in front of all these people.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about, I'm just trying to get back to our seats.” You let out a cheeky grin and he knew at this point you did that on purpose. He doesn’t know how long he could contain himself, and you wearing his favorite dress isn’t making it any better.
You guys eventually got back to your designated seats. It was just you and him at the table alone. He started to become hard for you - but certainly wasn’t going to tell you that. As the night went on, you kept doing little things to rile him up.
Like whenever you talked to him, you would give him a certain look that would cause him to have shivers down his spine.
This alone started to make him more flustered and he started stuttering on his words a little bit. You can tell he was starting to become more nervous and fidgety because of you.
You slowly start to put your hand on his thigh, rubbing it slowly. He gave you a death glare. His patience was running thin, and he doesn’t know how much longer he can take it.
“You better not do what I think you’re going to do. We're in public right now. Let’s save this for when we go home, alright love?”
“Aww, but I was just about to get to the fun part…” You say, with a fake frown plastered on your face.
Ignoring the conversation you just had, you start to slowly unzip his pants and put your hand on top of his crotch area, rubbing slowly. You look at his face and saw the expression he made. He threw his head back and let out a silent “fuck” under his breath.
You were enjoying every second of this.
You started to put your hand lower and stroked him up and down under the table. He was attempting to keep his composure and have a poker face.
J-hope walked up to the table because he had a question for Namjoon. The whole time they were talking, you continued pumping your hand up and down his cock. He didn’t move a muscle, and talked to J-hope as if you weren’t rubbing one out for him right now.
J-hope eventually left, leaving the two of you alone again.
Namjoon had enough of your constant teasing and wanted to put an end to it. He removed your hand from his dick and proceeded to zip up his pants. He leaned over to your ear and says
“Oh baby, after all the shit you pulled tonight… I hope you know I'm going to fuck you stupid tonight.”
You were shocked by this because you’re not used to his aggressive behavior. Usually, he is fairly sweet towards you. However, it seems you really pushed him to the edge tonight.
As the banquet came to an end, you went back to the car. He was silent the whole time. You were starting to become nervous. You almost believed that he was seriously mad at you.
“Hey, look I hope you know I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to take it that far-”
Suddenly, he placed his hand on your thigh; the other still on the wheel.
“Darling, you know you didn’t have to say that, right? I already told you what’s about to happen to you tonight. You forced my hand, and I have to show you what happens when you want me to act out. I find it funny that you think you can make me do whatever your little heart desires so easily.”
His hand slowly goes in between your legs, pulling your panties to the side.
“When in reality, you’re the one who always does exactly what I want, baby.”
He started rubbing his fingers against your clit.
You let out a small moan, which made him plaster a stupid grin on his face. The way he was driving and touching you at the time was making you feel extremely aroused for him.
“Aww baby girl, you’re already making such a mess for me just from the fingers alone. Let me just-”
He started to slap his hand on your pussy. You start whining from the mixed pain and pleasure you were feeling. For a second, he looked at you and gave you a look that sent shivers down your spine.
“Already whining? You’re so pretty love - and just for me.”
He then shoved 2 of his fingers inside your pussy, and started to pound them into you. You were trying not to moan out loud because you know that was what he wanted, and you didn’t want to give in.
All of this was payback for him - he was enjoying every second of it.
“Come on honey, I know you want to moan for me. You're practically dripping all over the seat.”
You looked down and saw that a wet spot was forming in between your legs.
This flustered you and made you squirm in your seat, simultaneously clenching on his fingers.
“You’re so cute when you get flustered for me baby. Keep squirming - I know you love this.”
All of this was starting to drive you crazy. You don’t know how long you can handle him.
“I'm so close. Please let me-”
He quickly took his hand off your clit, shamelessly edging you. You became agitated and let out a grunt in frustration.
He laughed and said, “Aww, that’s so cute. You thought I would let you finish just like that. Anyways, we’re home now.”
You looked over and saw that you indeed had arrived home. You were lost in your own world to realize it.
He parked the car in the driveway and got out. He went around the hood to your side so he could open the door for you. You supported yourself on his arm slightly, still weak in your knees from all the teasing. He helped you inside and guided you to your shared bedroom.
However, he started to give you the silent treatment and act like nothing happened. He began to change into his sleepwear and it seemed like he was planning on going straight to sleep.
You were mad that he just left you hanging like that. You were so close and he just had to steal your orgasm away from you.
He was laid down on the bed and began to read a book, as it was his nightly routine.
Since he didn’t seem to be paying you much mind, you decided to go into his side of the closet and dig out the white dress shirt he had under his suit earlier in the night so you could slip it on. You slipped your panties off in the process.
He started to look at you up and down, mentally questioning what you were doing wearing his clothes. You ignore his facial expressions and jump straight into bed, slowly starting to spread your legs. Since you didn’t feel satisfied from earlier, you started to rub circles on your clit, giving Namjoon a nice presentation. The look on his face was absolutely priceless, and something you knew you’d tease him about for a long time. He bit his lip and tried his best not to entertain your antics.
This was, however, his last straw.
He put down his book on his bedside table and took off his glasses. He leaned over the bed to get to you and started to slowly kiss you. He replaced your hand on your clit with his, using his other hand to pin yours above your head.
He started to kiss down your body, on your neck, tits, your hips. Interestingly enough, he decided to leave his shirt on you. He kissed down to your thighs and looked down at your pussy. He saw how wet you were for him and decided he had teased you enough tonight.
He spread your thighs open and started eating you out.
You didn’t care how loud you were being. You were practically screaming from how good he was making you feel.
He was still rubbing your clit almost aggressively and was eating you out like it was his last meal.
You were starting to see stars and just wanted to cum.
But Namjoon wasn’t even close to being done with you.
He pulled off of your pussy and started to pull down his sweatpants. He took out his dick and started rubbing it against your entrance. He rubbed it against your clit as well, knowing how sensitive you probably were.
He closed your thighs together around his cock and started slowly fuck your thighs. He was edging himself before fucking you. He began to moan for you from how good you were making him feel, which felt silly to you as he was just using your body.
All you wanted though was for him to put himself inside of you. You started moving your hips up he caught on and said
“Oh baby, you’re so fucking needy for me. I’ve never seen you like this before. I guess my teasing from earlier really got to you huh?”
Before you could even answer, he spread your legs open and shoved his dick inside of you.
You gasped out loud because you weren't expecting him to put it in so fast. But you weren’t complaining at all.
He used one of his hands to grip the headboard and start fucking himself into you. You both were melting into each other’s touch. He had been pent up since the banquet, and been wanting to fuck you since he saw you in that pretty fucking dress of yours.
Usually, he would usually go gentle and slow with you but tonight was a different story.
His strokes were hard but sensual at the same time.
Your arms were wrapped around his neck, and you were squirming around from how aggressive he was fucking you.
He put his hand down the shirt you were wearing and grabbed onto your boobs. He started to twist one of your nipples, putting the other into his mouth.
All this stimulation you were feeling was starting to make you feel dizzy.
He moved onto the other boob and sucked on it, all the while pounding into you. You were both reaching your breaking point.
He stopped sucking your tits and grabbed your legs and puts them over his shoulders.
He went down to your ear and whispered, “Baby I’m so close, so I need you to be good and cum with me okay?” You were too out of it to form words, so you nodded your head in agreement instead.
He started fucking you harder than before, without showing any signs of slowing down. He got so carried away that he didn’t realize how rough he was being with you.
You both finish at the same time, you let out genuine moans that only Namjoon could string out of you. You were practically on the verge of tears from how good he had just made you feel.
“Oh my god, honey are you ok? I’m sorry for being extra rough on you tonight. It’s just I’ve been wanting to do this since you came out in that dress. You know what it does to me.”
You appreciated how he always checks in after you both you’re done. He makes sure you’re not hurt, cleans you up, and prompts you to drink water.
“I'm okay, and I’m sorry for being annoying at the banquet. I just wanted to tease you a little bit, you know?”
He let out a little chuckle.
“Well, look what happens when you try to tease me.”
You look down to see the mess you made all over the bed. Your body fluids mingled together on the sheets.
You became embarrassed and tried to get up to clean up but he stopped you.
“It’s okay baby, I got it. Just lay down and go to sleep. I’ll clean up everything, okay?”
You nodded and smiled at the fact that you had the best boyfriend in the world.
summary: you didn’t want to go back to your hometown, not when your frustrating parents were there. you left that life behind. but who knew that rebuilding your old elementary school would also bring a new romance?
warnings: f reader, curse words, angst, frustrating/toxic parents, car accident (nothing graphic)
word count: ~ 6.7k (longest fic written so far!! 🥳)
a/n: I’m super excited to start this series :) 💗 (song lyrics won’t start until later into the fic bc I had to add background details. most of the lyrics will be used)
song: out of the woods
album: 1989 (taylor’s version)
trope: small hometown romance
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………
The year was 1989…
“Mom, dad, I have something to tell you,” I say, trying not to pace anxiously.
“Sweetie, is something wrong?” Mom asks, her eyebrows furrowed in worry.
Dad also looks nervous, as I never usually act in this manner. They’re both sitting on our worn cream couch, slightly sagging from overuse.
“Well…you know how I wanted to go pursue my architecture degree in Seoul?” I ask, remembering their horrified reactions to me having a desire to move out of our small hometown of Tonjung.
“Yes, I remember. And I also remember us not wanting you to leave,” Dad says, his face solemn and sure.
That’s funny. They both think I’m staying.
“I know, but I got into the University of Seoul School of Architecture,” I say, hoping that they’ll be at least a little proud. But knowing deep in my heart that they won’t care.
“Good for you honey, but I thought you were going to stay here and run the family business. You’re the only child we have, y/n. You have to carry on the legacy,” Mom says firmly.
“That’s what you want,” I sigh, already weary of the conversation, “But I want to go and live my dream.” Every time that I bring architecture up they always dismiss it. I don’t know whether or not it’s because they don’t believe in me or because they want me to follow their perfect vision.
“You and your dreams! Don’t you care about your family at all? Our dream is to be grandparents! Why don’t you settle down here and find a nice boy and-“
“Mom, dad, enough!” I hiss, my anger finally boiling over, “I don’t want to fucking live in your dream, I have a dream of my own. And I’ll be damned if I let this opportunity go to waste. I already paid for everything and set it up, so I just wanted to see if you were going to support me. But I guess not.”
My parents are now in shock, eyes wide and mouths slightly agape. But I don’t care.
“Goodbye.”
And with that, I leave, grabbing my suitcases that I had hidden and waiting by the door. The tears prickle at the edge of my eyes.
“Honey!”
“Wait!”
They shout, but I ignore them. Opening the door, I run straight into a man. Oh, is this another poor soul that they’re trying to set me up with? Too bad for him.
I shove my shit into the car and start it. Turning out of the driveway, I’m off to my new life.
~
Thirteen years later
~
“Ms. Choi! We need you to sign this, approving the floor plan for the new hospital. We added all the details you requested and-“
(I don’t know anything about architecture, so I’m trying to not add details. I’m sorry if I’m inaccurate with anything!)
I sign it quickly and then walk to the meeting room. My assistant has a ‘new project’ that I’ll ‘definitely want to be a part of!’ That means one of two things: either it’s a horrible project and they’re trying to hype it up so I’ll do it, or it’s actually a good investment and I’ll be pleasantly surprised.
I tend to have a ‘pessimistic’ point of view, but that’s only because I have high standards. After graduating top of my class, I started a job at one of the top architect corporations, Park Designs. Slowly climbing the ranks, I am now one of the top architects at Park. And it only took me five years. Some of my classmates are still low class designers at middle-class businesses. Not to sound cocky of course, but I had to work my ass off in college and during my internships. While my classmates were out partying and drinking, I was working on my designs and making sure they was the best.
Stepping into the meeting room, I’m not surprised to see my assistant, Jungwoon, but I am surprised to see my boss Seonming. Seonming usually doesn’t come to these meetings, as she’s usually busy helping the CEO, Park Ji-young.
“Hello y/n, it’s good to see you,” Seonming says shaking my hand. I’ve always admired Seonming, partly because she’s an amazing architect and partly because she’s a high ranking woman in a usually male dominated field.
“Good morning Seonming, it’s good to see you too,” I say, meaning every word.
I take a seat in the plush chairs, glad to get the nice meeting room.
“You’re probably wondering why I’m in here. As you know, I don’t usually comes when there’s a new project for you,” Seonming starts, “But this project is especially personal, and I wanted to pitch it to you.”
Personal? What does she mean by that?
Jungwoon hands me the files before bowing and leaving the room.
“Before you look at it, please know that I specifically selected you for this project because I know that you like designing for the greater good. You have a good heart, y/n, and that’s why I chose you for this. Not for any other reason,” Seonming says, making me wonder what’s so special about this project.
I take a deep breath and open the files. Instantly, I see the location. Tonjung, South Korea. Oh no, oh no no no.
“Now, before you get all mad, please understand-“
“Seonming. You know why I can’t do this. I left that life behind for a reason,” I say, irritation rising in me. Seonming of all people knows why I can’t go back! I haven’t seen my parents in years, only talking to them at the holidays or our respective birthdays. Our relationship is formal at best.
“I know y/n, but please consider it. You haven’t even looked at the project yet,” Seonming says implored.
I know she’s right, as she always is, so I scan the summary. Building a new school? Did something happen to my elementary school?
“What happened to Tonjung Elementary?” I ask, thinking about the cozy and warm school I went to.
“There was an earthquake,” Seonming explains, “And it all but destroyed the current school. They need an architect who can rebuild the school, and I recommended you. Not because you used to live there, but because I knew you’d be able to do it justice.”
Damn. Seonming is really good at making someone feel guilty. She knows I’m a sucker for humanitarian projects, whether it be building a new hospital or, in this case, a new school.
Why didn’t I know that the earthquake happened? Why didn’t my parents tell me? I’m assuming it’s because they think I don’t care, but just because I left doesn’t mean I don’t have an attachment to the town I grew up in.
I sigh, already knowing my answer.
“Okay…I guess for Tonjung Elementary…” I grumble, trying to ignore the happy look on Seonming’s face.
“Great! You’ll have to stay there for a while, of course, but the project doesn’t start for another two weeks. That should give you enough time!” Seonming is being surprisingly brief with details. Usually she gives me a full run down and explains every last aspect.
“Okay…how long will this last?” I ask, suspicious.
“Oh, yeah, it’s supposed to last two to three years. Anyways, I’ll send the rest of the information soon! Have a good day y/n!” Seonming leaves in a rush, clearly trying to avoid me so I can’t back out.
Two to three years? In my hometown? With my parents? Oh boy. What did I just agree to?
~
Two weeks fly by and before I know it I’m leaving with a lot of my stuff. Even though I may come back to the city once in a while, it won’t be often because the drive from Seoul to Tonjung is a good seven hours.
“Goodbye y/n! Have safe travels and try to have a little fun,” Jungwoon says. He’s handling my office while I’m gone. I trust him, and I know he’ll do a good job.
“Thanks, Jungwoon. And don’t forget to text me if there are any problems!” I call, waving as I drive off.
I put on music and try to enjoy the long drive. It is beautiful by the coast, and if I ignore the awkwardness with my parents, then going back home isn’t too bad.
I’m just glad that I’m staying at an Air BnB because otherwise I’d have to endure my parents’ constant nagging about how I left them, how I need to settle down, and all that bullshit. Besides, I’m only thirty-two. I have plenty of time to find a partner. I want to keep working towards my goal, becoming a CEO (like Park Ji-young) of my own architectural business.
The drive passes by quickly, and soon the tall skyscrapers of Seoul turn into quaint houses with chipping paint.
I pull into the Air BnB and get out of my car. Breathing in the salty air, I feel the crisp breeze on my skin. It’s June and the weather is a bit hot at times so the breeze is a nice reprieve. I start yo unload my stuff and place it in the bedroom. This is a nice Air BnB because it has all the essentials (washer, dryer, dishwasher, etc.) for one person.
I go to the bathroom and freshen up. After changing my clothes, I decide to rip the bandaid off and go to my parents since it’s only about 3 in the afternoon.
Tonjung is small enough to walk place to place, and my parents’ house is only a couple blocks over from the Air BnB.
I steady myself before knocking on the door. The aqua paint that used to be cheerful and welcoming now feels cheap and tacky.
The door opens, and my dad’s face appears. He opens the door slightly wider for me to come in, but I can tell he’s not that happy to see me.
“Hi honey, come on in. Your mom’s in the living room.” He shuts the door behind me and I feel as though I’m heading straight to my doom.
I cautiously step into the room and see my mom.
“Hi mom…it’s good to see you again,” I say, tentative of how this visit will go.
She turns her head.
“Hi sweetie. How are you?” It’s turning into another one of our phone calls. Only this time I can’t make an excuse and hang up.
“I’m fine. It’s good to be back.” I hesitate on what to say next, trying to break the awkwardness that’s lingering in the air like stale perfume.
“Good to have you back. Maybe this time you’ll stay,” mom says, and I stiffen.
“You know I had to go. And look at me now, I’ve achieved so much.” I always try my hardest to make my parents proud, even if they don’t know it.
“Yes honey, you have. So why don’t you come back here for good? You can do your building business or whatever it is you do from here.”
Mom never understands. It’s not just a ‘building business,’ it’s my life. I have big goals, and they’re only going to happen if I keep pursuing them.
“Mom, you know I can’t move back here. I have to continue in Seoul because that’s where there are better opportunities for me,” I try to explain. Before anyone can say anything else, I hear a knock on the door.
“Oh, that must be Namjoon,” my dad says, going to open the door.
Namjoon? Kim Namjoon?
“Hey Namjoon! Yes yes, come on in. She’s right here.” Dad leads the handsome man over to me.
“Hey, y/n! Long time no see.”
Kim Namjoon sure has grown into those long legs and dimples. His eyes have always been beautifully sculpted, but they’re even more gorgeous now. I notice that he’s got some serious muscles in him now too. Seems he’s discovered working out.
“Hey Namjoon. Haven’t seen you in a while,” I say, trying (and failing) not to seem awkward.
“Namjoon here has grown up, hasn’t he y/n? And he even stayed in town,” Mom says pointedly.
I roll my eyes. So small town Namjoon stayed in the small town. Mom and dad probably wish he was their child.
“Okay, mom. I get it. Now, not to break up whatever this-“ I gesture to mom and I- “is, why did you call Namjoon here?”
“Oh! It’s because I’m the principal of Tonjung Elementary. We’ll be working together on the rebuilding a lot,” Namjoon explains.
“Oh that’s fun…” I trail off, not sure what else to say. Yay? Spending two to three years working with someone I haven’t seen in ages?
“Yes it is! Now, why don’t you two mosey on down to the beach and get to know each other after such a long time. I’m sure there’s much to catch up on. And your father and I have to go to the store.” Mom practically forces us out, and before I know it Namjoon and I are standing outside the front door. So much for subtleness. Mom just wants me to find a boyfriend.
“That was quick,” I mumble, “Even for them.” Usually our visits on the phone last at least fifteen minutes, but this one breaks the record with being about five.
Namjoon chuckles. I blush, not knowing that he heard me.
“Well, it seems that we are supposed to go to the beach. Shall we?” Polite as ever, Namjoon is.
“Sure. We shall.”
Traipsing down we make our way to the beach and I immediately take off of my shoes to feel the sand. I find a good spot and sit down and stare at the ocean. The crashing waves do little to smooth my mind.
“So…” Namjoon starts, sitting down next to me. “You escaped. And you’re very successful now. I’ve seen you in magazines and such.”
Magazines? My name is almost never mentioned but I suppose there were a couple pieces written about my various projects.
“Heh, yeah. I’m lucky to be where I am today,” I affirm as I start drawing hearts in the sand.
“Yeah…the last time I saw you you weren’t doing the best so I’m glad you made it.” Namjoon has a look in his eyes I don’t recognize. Pity? Sympathy?
“Wait when was the last time I saw you?” I don’t remember seeing him since high school graduation.
“When you were leaving. For college. After,” Namjoon winces, “The fight with your parents.”
Wait how did he see me then? Unless-
“YOU were the man outside the door! I thought it was another random man my parents were trying to set me up with!” I exclaim.
Namjoon smiles sheepishly.
“Well…that was me. And I wasn’t just there for fun…”
“Ohhh so you were another poor suitor sent by my parents,” I side eye him for a second before we both burst into laughter.
“Ah yes, that’s me. A ‘suitor’ for you! Perhaps you should like to date me madam?” Namjoon says in an accent.
As I laugh, I think, Was he always this funny? I guess he’s more goofy now than in high school.
“Nah, I’m not ready to date anyone. I have to start my own architectural corporation first,” I say wistfully. Someday.
“Oh yeah, I bet you’ll be able to do that. You always were so driven, even in high school,” Namjoon says, reminiscing.
“Ugh, don’t remind me! I remember when I missed senior homecoming because I had to study.”
I wanted to go, but I had a huge AP chem test the next day that I ‘couldn’t afford to fail.’ So, while my other classmates were dancing to ‘Party Rock’ I was at home poring over my textbooks. It paid off, I suppose, because I aced the test, but it wasn’t worth missing homecoming.
“Those dances weren’t that fun anyways,” Namjoon says, breaking my train of thought.
“Oh! Yes I guess they weren’t. I wonder how everyone’s doing nowadays. I haven’t spoken to any of them in ages,” I mused. I’m only friends with some of them on social media, and even then I don’t check it frequently enough to know what’s happening in their lives.
“Remember Cho Eun Jung? Well, now she’s a famous fashion designer. Heard her designs were featured in Paris Fashion Week or something. And little Kim Ha-Joon? He has a family of his own now. They moved to America a while ago,” Namjoon notes, nose crinkling as he thinks.
“Wow. Seems as if everyone’s out there living their life and I’m stuck in Seoul, single and still pursuing my dream career,” I say, melancholy sinking in. The truth is, what have I done with my life? Sure, I’m a successful architect but I’m not famous and I don’t have a family. I’m not even close with the family that I do have.
“Hey, don’t think of yourself that way. You’re still successful, I mean only five years and now you’re a top architect at one of the top corporations. I’d say that’s impressive,” Namjoon says, making me laugh.
“Thanks, Namjoon. And look at you, principal on Tonjung Elementary. That’s impressive. If you don’t mind me asking, what happened to Mr. Han?” Mr. Han was our principal when Namjoon and I went to Tonjung.
“I don’t mind at all, and he retired. I think he’s living around here somewhere with his wife,” replies Namjoon. I’m glad that Mr. Han retired, he deserves it. That man was an excellent principal.
“Oh, that’s good. I’m happy for him. I’m also happy for you, and I’m happy that we can catch up. I mean, we are going to be working together for a couple years,” I say sheepishly.
“That’s true. I’m glad that it’s you who I’m working with,” Namjoon says, flashing me a smile, his dimples prominent.
I smile back.
“Me too.”
~
(I won’t be adding many details about the new school design because I am not an architect and don’t want to mess up anything about the process :))
The months pass by in a whirlwind with planning and sketching the new school. Namjoon and I try to make it similar to the old one, but there are a few modern adjustments that we add.
Currently, all of the students are having to go to school in a neighboring town. Namjoon and I work as quickly as we can so that they can come back and attend school here.
~
September arrives and with it cooler weather. The leaves are starting to turn their gorgeous shades and I start wearing my knit sweaters.
One day I’m heading over to Namjoon’s house because I forgot my laptop charger. I knock on his cerulean door and he answers, smiling that cute grin of his.
“Hey y/n! Come on in. I’m assuming you’re here for your laptop charger?”
I step inside, replying “Yes! I can’t believe I left it here. I’m so forgetful sometimes.”
I grab it off of the coffee table, and am about to leave when Namjoon clears his throat.
“Would…you like to stay for a bit? I remember you wanting to watch that new k-drama and it just came out. You don’t have to though if you don’t want to! Sorry, I just thought maybe-“
“Namjoon,” I interrupt, smiling internally at his shyness, “It’s fine. I’d love to stay for a while. I’m glad that you remember when the k-drama was coming out because I sure didn’t!”
After popping popcorn (our second bag as Namjoon burnt the first batch) and grabbing sodas we settle down to watch ‘Business Proposal’ (I know it didn’t come out this early but I love this k-drama okay? 😭).
We binged the whole season that afternoon. After the last episode my stomach hurt from all the popcorn and soda but my heart was full.
“The last scene was so pretty! Those cherry blossoms…” I sigh as I lean back into the couch, “I can only dream to have such a perfect proposal someday.”
“I know the right person will come along y/n. Just wait and see,” Namjoon says with such certainty that I look at him. How does he know that I’ll find someone?
“Yeah, I guess so,” I reply, letting my head drop to the couch. If I close my eyes, I can just imagine that this little moment was perfect. Namjoon and I in a perfect bubble. No outsiders or prying parents to belittle me.
♪ looking at it now
it all seems so simple ♪
I hear the sound of a flash and open my eyes to see Namjoon holding a Polaroid camera.
“Hey! Did you just take a picture of me?” I gasp at him as he grins sheepishly.
“Maybe?”
“Why?” I ask him, trying to grab the camera out of his hand.
“Because! Look,” Namjoon says, showing me the picture.
I look so pensive, eyes closed to the world. The sun beams down through the window and hits my face perfectly like I’m in a movie. My hair is spread on the couch in a surprisingly beautiful way.
♪ we were lying on your couch
I remember ♪
“Wow, I didn’t know you had such a touch for photography Namjoon!” I praise, seeing the man blush.
“Oh, it’s not that hard when I have a great subject to photograph.” Namjoon waves off the compliment.
“Can I keep the picture?” I ask, grinning excitedly when he drops it into my hands, “Thanks!”
Namjoon holds the camera out in front of both of us. “Let’s take a selfie together, y/n.”
“Okay!” I say, getting close and throwing up a peace sign. Flash!
♪ you took a Polaroid of us
then discovered ♪
The picture comes out beautifully, the sun hitting the two of us just right and our beaming faces genuine.
“Aww, we look so cute Namjoon. Why don’t you keep this picture because you let me keep the first one. A memory when we watched Business Proposal!” I cheer, feeling happy for the first time in a while.
When was the last time I let myself just be with someone? No work, no worrying about parents or expectations. Just me and them.
♪ the rest of the world was black and white
but we were in screaming color ♪
I blink, surprised with my sudden desire to cry. Was my life so monotone that simple moments like these made me happy? Did…Namjoon make me happy? No, it was just the fun of hanging out with someone. That’s why, I’m riding the high of having a true friendship. No other reason.
♪ and I remember thinking
are we out of the woods yet?
are we in the clear yet? ♪
~
It’s December and the air is cooler as winter sneaks in. I’m over at his house about a week until Christmas, complaining about my parents (yet again).
“They want me to go to their annual Christmas party! Which is fine, because, like, my family will be there, but that means a night of suffering as they compare me to my cousins. Half of my cousins are married, some have children, and the others at least live close by. I don’t check any of those boxes so they’ll just use the night to make me feel guilty!” I rant while sitting on Namjoon’s couch.
♪ looking at it now
last this december ♪
Namjoon winces.
“I’m sorry…do your parents even know how they make you feel?”
“But it’s not just my family! You know my parents, they invite the whole damn town!” I plow on, then stop after realizing Namjoon said something, “Sorry, what did you say?”
“I said that I’m sorry and asked if your parents know how bad they make you feel. It’s obvious they don’t, but have you tried talking to them about it?” Namjoon repeats.
“Oh, don’t apologize. It’s not your fault they’re this way. And yeah, I have tried to talk to them. Since high school, actually, when I told them I wanted to pursue being an architect. But they turned it down immediately! They didn’t even listen to me!” I put my head into my hands.
Namjoon puts his arm around me in a half hug.
“I wish there was a way for me to help you, y/n. If it makes you feel any better, I can come to the party with you. Your parents did invite me.”
Of course they did. They want me to find someone so desperately that they probably invited all of the eligible bachelors in Tonjung.
I lean into Namjoon’s hug, trying to absorb some of his calming aura.
♪ we were built to fall apart
then fall back together ♪
The day of the dreaded party arrives and I shove myself into a sparkly red dress that’s itchy and uncomfortable. I feel like a present.
At precisely 5:20pm my doorbell rings. Grabbing my purse I open the door to see Namjoon. In a suit. Wow, he cleans up nice.
“Joon! You look great. That suit looks great on you,” I babble. Since when have I been nervous around him?
“Same to you! Well, not about the suit but that dress. Looks really good on you,” Namjoon stumbles out. Looks like I’m not the only awkward one.
I smile.
“Thank you Namjoon. Shall we?”
“Oh! Before we leave, I wanted to give you your Christmas gift.” He brings out a small velvet box from behind his back.
I gasp, then say, “Joon! You didn’t have to get me anything. I didn’t get you anything!”
“It’s okay,” Namjoon says, stepping inside, “I don’t need anything. I’m just glad that we’re friends.”
He hands me the box and I open it. Inside is a simple chain necklace with a gold North Star charm at the end. I look closer at it and realize-
“Namjoon! This is your necklace! I can’t accept this. It’s yours!” I try to give him the box back but he refuses.
“Please accept it. It will look perfect on you,” Namjoon pleads, and after trying again to give it back but failing, I accept it.
“Okay, Joon, thank you. It’s beautiful. Could you help me put it on?”
“Of course.”
He takes it out gently and brings it in front of my neck. Fastening it carefully I look down at it.
It fits perfectly.
♪ ooh, your necklace hanging from my neck
the night we couldn’t quite forget ♪
The party is dull. My parents compare me to my cousins, introduce me to tasteless men, and force me to talk to their judgmental friends. Luckily, Joon is there to help ease some of the pain. We last about an hour before leaving, saying we have ‘work to do on the design.’ To which my parents ignore. Oh well. Who cares? Not me.
Namjoon and I go to his house after (we always go to his house instead of my Air BnB because I said it feels more cozy). We collapse on the couch and laugh, thinking about our escapades at the party. Counting how many mini quiches my cousin ate, seeing how many chocolates we could sneak into Namjoon’s pocket.
“Hey! Why don’t we do karaoke? That’ll be fun way to ring in Christmas!” Namjoon says excitedly. And he’s right. It is Christmas Eve after all.
“Okay,” I agree. And we move the coffee table and chairs and then plug in the machine. After a couple rounds we tire out and decide to just listen to the Christmas radio. Jingle Bell Rock comes on and I find myself pulling Namjoon up off the couch.
“C’mon Joon, dance with me!” He’s reluctant at first but eventually we find a rhythm, happy and free.
♪ when we decided, we decided
to move the furniture so we could dance ♪
White Christmas comes on and Namjoon grabs my hand and we start to slowly ‘waltz’ around the room (it’s mostly swaying). I feel my heart start to beat faster, my face flush.
♪ baby, like we stood a chance ♪
I can feel Namjoon’s body heat and force myself to look into his eyes. Those, caring, sweet, beautiful eyes. He looks back at me. Our faces are mere inches apart, and I slowly press my lips to his. He doesn’t pull away.
♪ two paper airplanes flying, flying, flying ♪
~
I spend the night, wearing his clothes and sleeping next to him. We cuddle up and wake up together on Christmas morning.
“Good morning beautiful,” Namjoon says in his deep morning voice.
I blush.
“Good morning Joon,” I reply, trying to hide my face.
“Merry Christmas,” he says, pressing a gentle kiss to my forehead.
“Merry Christmas. I’m sorry I didn’t get you a gift,” I say, still thinking of what I could give him.
“Don’t apologize, sweetheart. You are the best gift.”
♪ and I remember thinking
are we out of the woods yet?
are we in the clear yet? ♪
~
December turns to April, four months of dating Namjoon. My parents are overjoyed, but I manage to ignore their suggestive comments and instead focus on the man himself.
Valentine’s Day is a whole affair, Namjoon giving me the biggest bouquet of wildflowers, handpicked by him. And if that wasn’t enough, he also gifts me a whole bouquet of chocolate-covered strawberries (which he found out are my most favorite food ever). I get him a moon necklace that matches my North Star one, teasing, “Now we can be one of those cheesy couples who have matching necklaces.”
On a muddy spring day in March we make a spontaneous trip to a neighboring town’s traveling carnival. After buying sugary cotton candy and popcorn, Namjoon and I try our hands at the games. We each win a stuffed animal for each other, me winning him a koala and him winning me a giant panda. Their names are Koya and James respectively. The carousel is fun, us holding hands like lovesick teenagers the entire time and (probably) annoying all the kids riding. At the end of the day Namjoon and I go on the Ferris wheel, kissing sweetly at the top beneath the velvet starry sky.
Namjoon makes me feel the happiest I’ve ever felt. My self esteem has definitely improved and my heart is constantly full. He treats me like a queen and I hope that I treat him like the king that he is.
We go on cute dates around town. Coffee shop dates on rainy days, reading for hours on end at the library, feeding each other chocolate-covered strawberries at the park. Although, I think the best ones are either a simple afternoon at the beach or cuddling on the couch.
We often dance together in his living room, two souls in their own world. Just like the day of the Polaroid picture (which he has up on his wall), I feel as though I’m in my own bubble of joy.
♪ are we out of the woods yet?
are we in the clear yet? ♪
But not all good things last forever.
Talk of the future rarely come up, but when it does Namjoon is surprisingly avoidant of answering anything. I know that I have my job in the city, and I also know that he loves the beach and being away from crowds of people. How could this work?
A particularly bad argument leads to me storming out, irritated that Namjoon doesn’t want to discuss our relationship after the school is finished. And with how far it’s progressing, it looks to be done in about a year.
“Sweetheart, please. I’m not ready to talk about this yet because I don’t want to think about it,” Namjoon implores as I start to gather my things.
“You’re never ready. We have to talk about it someday, and I need to know about the future of us.” I’m so frustrated about this reoccurring disagreement, and this is a sign that it’s time for me to leave. “I’m leaving, I’ll talk to you tomorrow.” His hand on my arm only further annoys me.
“Sweets, please don’t leave. I just…have commitment issues. Forgive me, but thinking that far ahead makes me feel tied down. I just want to live in the moment,” he pleads.
I look into those dark eyes and see something vulnerable and raw in there. There’s a nagging voice in the back of my head that says to stay but I turn and go out the door.
“Y/n!”
♪ remember when you hit the brakes too soon?
twenty stitches in a hospital room ♪
I get into my car and start driving in the downpour. I don’t know where I’m going, but I do know that I need to get out of this town.
The rocky cliffs are jagged in the lightning and I angrily pump the gas once more. I see a shape dart out and try to hit the brakes. But I’m too slow. All I see is black as the world fades away.
♪ when you started crying, baby, I did too
but when the sun came up, I was looking at you ♪
I groggily open my eyes and the first thing I see is a body sitting in a chair. As I come to, I also notice curtains and an IV. I’m in a hospital.
“Y/n! Oh my god, I’m so sorry. I feel like it’s my fault. I shouldn’t have let you leave I should’ve made you stay and you could’ve died…”
Namjoon.
He’s here.
I turn to look at him and smile weakly.
“Joon, it’s okay. I’m okay.”
Those words seem to break him and he comes and holds me close while sobbing.
♪ I was looking at you ♪
After he’s calmed down he tells me what happened. I hit a deer last night and had a concussion. After finding me and rushing me to the hospital I had to have twenty stitches (this probably isn’t accurate and I apologize).
Namjoon tells me that my parents have come to visit but I wasn’t awake when they came. It’s now two pm.
“I’m so sorry. So so sorry. It was my fault and I shouldn’t have let you leave-“
“Namjoon.” I cut off his rambling, “You sound like a broken record. It’s okay. I’m okay. Can we talk about what happened before the accident?” I know it’s quick, but I need to know before another horrible happens.
I feel his hand tense before he says, “Sure.”
“Please, Namjoon, tell me why you have commitment issues. I want to know everything about you. Please tell me. I want to be with you, I want to stay with you, but we need to be able to trust each other. Trust me, Namjoon,” I beg, trying to understand.
♪ remember when we couldn’t take the heat?
I walked out, I said “I’m setting you free” ♪
Namjoon casts his eyes down.
“I’m sorry y/n…you deserve to know. I-I’ll do my best to explain it.” He takes a deep breath before continuing. “The future used to be something I would obsess over, planned to the very last detail. I had a girlfriend that I dated all through college, and I truly thought that she was the one.” It doesn’t bother me that Namjoon had another girlfriend, but I’m surprised he didn’t tell me about her sooner.
“She was a part of my future, but I suddenly found out that she’s been cheating. That changed everything. My whole future was thrown askew. It was then that I decided to live freely and not worry about the future because I didn’t know what was in store. To not be tied down and to be spontaneous,” Namjoon finishes.
♪ but the monsters turned out to be just trees ♪
It makes so much sense, why he wants to live this free life. I understand that his past girlfriend scarred him in many ways, and I don’t blame him for being nervous. But I still wish he would’ve told me all this.
“I understand Namjoon, and I’m sorry that happened to you. Why didn’t you tell me this before? I know we’ve only been dating for a couple months, but I feel that this is something important to share.”
“I know, and I’m sorry. I should’ve told you all this. Do you think you could forgive me? I promise that I will try to be more open and think a little bit more about my future with you,” Namjoon vows.
“I will forgive you. Eventually. But we need to work on communication if we want this to work.” I raise my eyebrows at him.
“Deal.”
He leans over to kiss my cheek.
♪ when the sun came up you were looking at me ♪
And I let him.
♪ you were looking at me ♪
~
Two years later
~
The beach is hardly crowded today, only a few people set up with their umbrellas. Which is surprising, since it’s the start of summer. I guess the tourist waves hasn’t hit yet.
Joon carries a picnic basket in one hand and holds mine in his other. He says that he has a surprise date planned, but I don’t see much of a surprise because of the picnic basket.
We decided that it was best to take things slow, build up trust within one another. While the school was being finished, we took time to relax and get to know each other a bit better. Joon opened up more and I listened and now I better understand him. After the school was done, we had a big talk about our future.
I decided to quit my job and start my own architecture business in Tonjung, letting me live that CEO life while also being in Namjoon’s life. It’s a pretty successful corporation, as my main goal was to focus on smaller towns and help them.
I also had a big talking to with my parents. I explained how I felt and tried to get them to listen and understand me. They still want grandchildren, but they’re a little more understanding now of how that may or may not happen.
Joon and I aren’t even married yet, let alone thinking about children. Right now, all I want to do is enjoy this picnic ‘surprise’ date that he’s set up.
“Here’s the perfect spot for the picnic,” Joon says, leading me to a place away from other people while also being shaded. So much for a surprise.
We spread the blanket out then open the basket. I instantly see the chocolate-covered strawberries that I adore so much and grab one to munch on.
“You and your strawberries,” Joon says fondly, shaking his head at me.
“Hey, what can I say, I love them,” I mumble with my mouth full.
Joon laughs and I see those dimples of his pop out. That grin still never fails to make me have butterflies.
“And I love you.” He kisses the top of my head.
We enjoy the picnic and as we’re packing up Joon stops me.
“Wait, y/n, I have the surprise.”
I look at him questioningly as he pulls out a tiny box.
Then he gets down on one knee.
I start to go teary-eyed.
“Choi y/n, I know this isn’t a cherry blossom proposal from Business Proposal-“
I laugh at that, thinking about that evening.
“-but I hope this is just as special. You are the most talented, smart, amazing, and gorgeous woman I’ve ever met. Even in high school you were already surpassing everyone else. I’m so lucky to call you my girlfriend. Thank you for putting up with me and for loving me as I am. You never fail to make me laugh and always make me feel better when I’m having a rough day. I trust you more than anyone and I love you more than you will ever know.”
I let the tears fall as Joon finishes.
“And with that, I ask you, Choi y/n, will you marry me?”
