synopsis: It is the day of the long-awaited Christmas party, and everyone has a date to spend the night with. Everyone other than Jisung and his deskmate...
warnings: -
words: 2604
a/n: how we refer to the boys' dates:
Chan: significant other
Minho: partner in crime
Changbin: lover
Hyunjin: better half
Jisung: lovebug
Felix: soulmate
Seungmin: sweetheart
Jeongin: date
25th day of SKZMAS
December 25th
You are not sure what to expect from this Christmas party. You have attended a number of such parties before, of course, but this one feels different somehow. Being on the organizing committee, you are kind of expected to take credit for all the hard work that went into the decoration, catering and planning of the night… which you aren't sure you deserve.
Granted, you've been a little distracted. With the emotional rollercoaster of the past weeks, you wouldn't blame anyone for not having their head in the game, but of course, you do blame yourself. You just can't seem to get over the fact that you were one step away from happily ever after… until it disappeared with a disappointing poof.
“Yo, everything alright?” Jisung asks as he stops by your side. He looks gorgeous, even more so than usual. He is wearing a red shirt with tight, black jeans and his signature chunky boots, and a goofy, Grinch-esque clip-on tie around his neck. He looks effortlessly gorgeous and you would prefer not to look at him… it just makes it all harder.
“Peachy.” you hum, but you undeniably check him out from head to toe before looking away. “Kind of feeling bad for leaving all the work for Felix and his soulmate.” you admit as you glance over to the couple, snacking at the chocolate fountain.
“Oh, that. Yeah.” Jisung says in a mutter. He hasn’t really thought about that. “But they love these things! Look at them, I am sure they would’ve never taken the extra step if it wasn’t for the organizing shenanigans. And for my genius advice, of course.”
“Yeah, what would we do without you?” you ask with a sad sigh. “Do you wanna get some champagne?”
“Duh, let’s get fucked up!” Jisung grins at you and takes your hand in his, tugging you along to the table with the drinks. You run into Chan and his significant other, the latter sipping some wine, the former pouring some hot chocolate for himself.
“Are you the designated driver?” you ask Chan playfully as you reach them, holding Jisung’s hand tighter, not wanting him to let go.
“No, I'm pregnant.” he jokes as he clings his glass with his significant other’s. “Just kidding.” he says and he seems to be much more relaxed and laid-back. He is pretty cool, compared to the ball of stress you see him as in the office.
“You guys have been together forever, I wouldn’t be surprised if you were.” Jisung says with a sweet smile, and he also pours some drinks for the two of you. “No pressure, though. You are young and have your whole life ahead!” he adds, and you bite back a smile. Yeah, definitely an expert on love.
“I promise, you will be the first to know.” his significant other chuckles and they gently touch Chan’s arm. “Can you take this for me? I have to use the bathroom.”
“Sure thing.” he smiles oh so fondly before exchanging a quick peck on the lips and taking their drink.
“Could you guys keep a secret?” Chan asks suddenly when his significant other is out of hearing distance.
“Oh we love secrets!” you gasp, leaning in eagerly.
“I am very good at keeping them.” Jisung nods solemnly. “Wait, are you actually-”
“No, Jisung.” Chan rolls his eyes but he can't bite back his grin. “I’m going to propose to them in Paris.” he announces in a hushed tone before taking out a box from his inside pocket.
“Oh my god, it's beautiful!” you compliment as he opens the box and shows off a shiny ring. He must have been saving up… and he is proposing in Paris? So romantic!
“Oh, mate, congrats! That’s like, the most romantic thing ever.” Jisung says excitedly, and did you imagine it or did he actually glance at you just now?
“Thank you.” he chuckles, looking between the two of you. “I hope they say yes.” he wonders before slipping the ring back in his pocket. “What are your plans for the future?”
“O-our?” Jisung asks, glancing at you. “Well, we plan on getting drunk tonight, spending the holidays at home, and then probably New Year’s- oh, shit, right, I forgot to tell you, I’m throwing a party on New Year’s! Please come?” he asks you with big, puppy eyes. With everything going on, he sorta just expected that you would always be around… no party is perfect without you.
You are quite taken aback, as you always are by Jisung’s sudden outbursts. You try your best to not get hurt at the fact that he forgot to invite you up until now.
“I will think about it.” you respond instead. Maybe you should go on a dating site and forget about your feelings for Jisung, you think. Soon enough, Chan’s significant other returns from the bathroom and they start being cute and lovey-dovey in no time. You long to have what they have…
“Everyone is so in love.” Jisung also notes, looking around to spot Seungmin and his sweetheart gushing over a photo album, Jeongin and his date dancing to the cheesy Christmas song that’s playing, and Minho… well.
“You can’t eat more pudding than me. Do you even know me?” Minho scoffs, watching his partner in crime with a grimace but you can tell they are holding hands under the table.
“Oh yeah? Is that a challenge?” they question him with a cocked brow.
“Good to see that some things never change.” you chuckle at the sight of the two.
“What? You couldn't seriously think that we will be like Chan and his significant other.” the partner in crime chuckles.
“I wouldn’t dare.” Jisung says, a shiver running down his spine. Seeing Minho so whipped… that sounds terrifying.
“What are the two of you up to, now that the Christmas party is done?” Minho asks, watching the two of you intently.
Why does everyone assume there is anything going on? “Getting drunk. Enjoying the party.” you shrug. “What about you two?”
“Vengeance.” your colleague says from Minho’s side before they exchange a devilish grin.
“Oh no. One Minho was terrifying enough, now there is two?!” Changbin sighs from a few chairs away, sipping his eggnog, arm around his lover’s shoulders.
“Ew, don't compare us!” Minho’s partner in crime frowns.
“They really are the same. You were right.” Changbin’s lover chuckles, patting his cheek gently.
“I’m always right, baby.” Changbin says with a handsome grin, leaning in to press a kiss on their lips.
Jisung shakes his head sadly, pointing fingerguns at the two. “Another one.” he says and bites in his bottom lip as the textbook example of a sad fuckboy.
“Don’t do that.” you giggle, pushing him a tiny bit as the alcohol seeps in your brain. “We can at least count on Hyunjin…” you start but when you search for him, you find him looking at his roommate with fond and loving eyes, holding their hand tight and caressing their knuckles with his thumbs. “I'll take that back.” you whine.
“It looks like it's only you two who couldn't find a date for this party.” Seungmin materializes from thin air, making Jisung jump.
“Holy sh- you are so freaking creepy sometimes!” Jisung whines, and realizes only a second later that he took your hand in fear. He lets go quickly, clearing his throat. “Well, unlike you overly romantic folk, we don't need a date, right?” he asks, looking at you. “We have each other. That's better than any date.”
“Jesus.” you mutter under your breath. “You are so… unbelievable sometimes.” you huff, anger fuming through your body due to the pain of rejection. “Excuse me. I have to go to the restroom.” And with that, you are off.
“You are very dense, aren't you?” Seungmin scoffs. Jisung is frozen in his tracks, blinking after you as you disappear in the bathroom.
“What’s going on?” Hyunjin arrives, holding his better half's hand while the other is planted in his suit jacket.
“I- have no idea.” Jisung says as he looks around his friends. “Did I say something wrong?”
“You’ve only been saying the wrong things.” Seungmin explains. “You should take a hint from Jeongin. He got himself a date in a month and you have been pining for how long exactly?”
“Around two years.” Jisung says absently before he blinks up at Seungmin. “Wait- how did you-”
“Jisung, honey, everyone knows.” Minho’s partner in crime says.
“I think you should thank Felix for putting up with your dumbassery for the past month because if I were him, I probably would've locked the two of you in a storage room until you confess.” Minho says nonchalantly.
At that, Jeongin, who has just sat down with his date, turns to them with wide eyes. Jisung stares at him, shaking his head slowly.
“I don't think that would have helped, hyung.” Jeongin chuckles nervously, stuffing his mouth with a Christmas cookie.
“You little-” Jisung mutters before he meets Minho's eyes.
“Go after them, Hannie.” he says softly, and wow, is he dying or something? Why is Minho not calling him an idiot? “Don't be an idiot.”
“Ah, yeah, okay.” Jisung says, taking a deep breath and starting towards the door which leads to the bathrooms.
“Do you guys think he will be okay?” Changbin’s lover asks.
“He is a smart boy, despite everything you've just witnessed.” Changbin says with a smile, pressing a kiss on their cheek. “They've been like this forever… it's high time one of them made a move.”
Jisung runs into you as you are about to return, having forgotten your phone on the booze table. Just your luck… and now, you are staring at the face you've been trying your hardest to ignore, or at least find it in yourself to not care about.
“Oh- I was just… about to go looking for you.” Jisung says and you watch him nervously chew down on his bottom lip.
“I told you, I went to the bathroom.” you sigh tiredly. “What? You couldn't stand all the couples any longer?”
“No, that's not it…” Jisung mutters, eyes running around your face. Is it really possible that he has been ignoring all the signs so far? “Actually… I wanted to see if you are okay. Because I, well, I care about you.”
As a friend would, you remind yourself. “I’m okay, don't worry.” you sigh and bite your tongue. “We shouldn't hang out this much.” However, the words still roll off your tongue despite your best efforts.
Jisung's eyes grow wide, almost comically so, and he is at a loss for words for a second. “... what? Why?!”
“Because!” you whine, not really wanting to explain how embarrassingly in love you are with him. “If we keep hanging out, we might never have the chance to find a new love.”
“Then don't!” Jisung exclaims. In the shocked silence, he looks just as surprised that he said that as you are. “I mean! You are wonderful and truly one of the coolest people I know! And you deserve true love more than anyone I've ever known! And if it is with someone else, well, that has to be fine with me because I fucked up my own chance already.” he says and his face is gradually turning more and more miserable.
“Jisung, slow down and rewind.” you shut your eyes as you think back of what he said. “You haven't ruined your chances. It just doesn't make sense, why do I give you all these chances when you are clearly not interested in me.” you pout.
Jisung closes his eyes, trying to recompose himself. His mind is doing the thing again where he is letting his stream of consciousness flow without making any sense.
“Guys?”
You both look up to see all your friends watching the two of you, with Felix pointing at you. No, not at you, something above you.
“Oh.” is all Jisung can say as you both stare at the mistletoe sneakily hanging over your heads.
“Oh.” you mirror him, fidgeting with your fingers.
“Took you long enough to stand here.” Felix's soulmate chuckles.
“They trapped us on purpose.” Jisung says, looking at you with a little smile and he is fidgeting with his fingers. “So, uhm… it would be rude not to follow the tradition.” he says in a small, hopeful voice. “Do you think I could… kiss you maybe?”
All air is knocked out of your chest at his question as you stare at each other. Jisung's eyes are filled with hope and worry while your own heart picks up a deafening pace.
“Yes.” is all you mutter and out of the corner of your eye you can see Felix’s soulmate grabbing his hand and dragging him away to give you privacy.
And with that, Jisung plucks up all the courage he has left in him to lean in and press a kiss on your lips. The angle is a little awkward at first, but once you kiss him back, he seems to remember how to move his hands and he places one on your cheek, the other on your waist to pull you closer.
You grab onto his shirt as you pull him flat against your chest, the two of you now fully making out and you swear you can feel yourself levitating. He must feel it too because he holds onto you tighter, worried that you might slip out of his hold if he isn't careful enough.
“Oh my gosh, look away.” Jeongin's date tells him and covers his eyes with a chuckle.
It makes Jisung come back to his senses, and he reluctantly pulls away. You are glad to see you had a similar effect on him as he did on you, because his breathing is shallow and he can't wipe that cute, dumb little smile off his face.
“Holy shit.” he mutters, giggling and holding you tightly against him. “You like me back.”
“Of course I like you, dumbass!” you gasp, hitting his chest. “You could have asked, you know! I had a crush on you since my first day here.”
“You mean we could've been doing this for 2 years?!” he asks and his cheeks are bright pink now. “But- you can't just walk up to the new person on their first day like hi, you are gorgeous, wanna make out? Even though I very much wanted to, but was told I shouldn't!”
“Who told you that?” you chuckle at his honesty, drawing little circles on his chest.
Jisung instinctively glances at Minho who is trying to hide behind his glass of wine. “Doesn't matter.” he shakes his head before he cups your cheeks with both hands. “All that matters is that you don't find me weird for being in love with you.”
“God.” you blush and lean in his cold palms. “No. If you agree to not find me weird for being in love with you too.”
“Oh.” Jisung says and his grin grows unbelievably wider, eyes disappearing almost completely and you have never loved anyone more. “No, I think that's pretty convenient then.” he says before pulling you in for another kiss.
You giggle into the kiss, hugging him tight as the two of you make out.
“Your plan worked.” Felix's soulmate giggles cutely, playing with his hand.
“Yeah, let's pretend this wasn't the backup plan of the backup plan.” Felix grins and he presses a kiss on their forehead. At the end of the day, he was right. This is the best Christmas ever.
synopsis: Jeongin is kicking his 3rd year at JY Publsihing as an underpaid intern. Life could be a lot more enjoyable if he would at last recieve the position he has been dreaming of... but his usual coffee runs make it more bearable once a new barista starts working at his regural coffee shop.
warnings: -
words: 1056
24th day of SKZMAS
December 24th
You haven’t seen Jeongin for the past week. You feared the worst, that he might actually got fired because of you. Because of your reckless advise that he took to the heart and now he no longer wanted to see you. But a couple days after your impromptu peptalk, a new intern entered your coffee shop and once he asked for the order you happily scribbled Jeongin’s name on one of the paper cups.
So he made it, you sighed to yourself with a relief when it happened. However, you couldn’t really shake off that eerie feeling you felt in your chest with his lack of visits. You thought you were close enough for him to tell you… to come running to you about the promotion but maybe you have mistaken his advances. Maybe he is just generally nice to catering employees and all this was just in your head.
It’s Christmas Eve tonight and as there was nothing else for you to do, you agreed to take on the morning shift yourself. Luckily, you close at one in the afternoon, so you still have plenty of time to go home and celebrate with your family.
The cafe is quieter than usual. You take it as a good sign that in this corporal area, where mostly offices work, there are only a handful of people who spend their holidays working here. The door jingles for about the third time that day, not much earlier before closing and you spin around to greet the incoming guest with the utmost cheerfulness.
As Jeongin steps into the cafe, his attire makes you speechless on the spot. He has a long coat on with casual clothes, something that you thought you would never have the privilege of seeing him in. However, the most shocking part isn’t his outfit, but the huge box he is holding, neatly packaged in wrapping paper with a bow on it. “Merry Christmas.”
“Merry Christmas to you, too.” you respond, smiling in amazement. “You shouldn't have… what is this?”
“You should open it to see.” He chuckles cheekily before handing you the present. “Why are you working on Christmas? Are you aiming for that promotion?”
“I'd love to say I do.” you roll your eyes, taking the box and placing it on the counter. “God, it's so big.” you huff as you place the box on a table, the one you sat by with him just a week ago. “I'm afraid I'm just a loser who has no one to spend Christmas with.” you explain with a chuckle as you start to unwrap your present.
“Well, that makes the two of us.” he smiles fondly, watching your movements. “I’m sorry I wasn't coming by but the company made me work tirelessly.” he chuckles.
“Oh, love, please don't burn yourself out.” you say, glancing up at him and he is already watching you. There's so much adoration in his gaze… it makes your heart race. You finally open the present, and it's a thick coat, black and soft with padding. Also looking incredibly expensive. “Innie! Gosh, you really shouldn't have! I cannot-”
“We worked hard for that.” he grins. “I got the PR position and without you I wouldn't have gotten a raise. You deserve it.” he smiles. “Besides, you need something warm to the Christmas open-air-concert we are going to.” he adds, taking out two tickets from his coat’s pocket.
You are speechless for a second before you jump in his arms happily. Hugging his neck, you feel his arms wrap around you, and gosh, your heart is going to explode. “You did so well. I'm so proud of you.” you whisper.
“I couldn't have done it without you!” he admits, burying his face in the crook of your neck before spinning you around in his arms. “I was also thinking, if you might be free… it's kind of late to ask you though but… the office party is on the 25th and I was wondering if you’d like to join me as my date?” he finally blurbs out.
You pull back to look at his cute face, all blushed and warm and smiling at you beautifully. “That sounds like a great time. I'm in.”
“Oh, thank god it would have been embarrassing to turn up alone, after all I gushed about you to everyone.” he chuckles, booping your nose and still holding you.
“Stop being so cute!” you squeal and squeeze him in the hug. You generally don't believe in Christmas miracles… but this one, it can hardly be called anything else. “I think I might have annoyed Ryujin by always talking about you, too…”
“Is this why you are all on your own today?” he jokes with a playful glint in his eyes. “When do you finish? I can help you close up.”
“I am done for the most part, actually.” you grin and there is a moment of silence before you speak. “Do you think… would it be okay if I kissed you?”
“I think I should be kissing you.” he hums after a second of thinking, and he leans in to kiss you finally.
You giggle in the kiss, tugging him closer because you want to feel his whole being in the kiss. And oh, you do. He might look young and innocent, but Jeongin is an amazing kisser. He picks up on your rhythm in a second, and the way he kissed you makes your knees go weak.
He seems to catch on all your little movements and he grabs your waist to keep you grounded. Your tongues dance, lips melting against each other as they do. You are like water and fire, complementing each other perfectly.
“Innie…” you pull back breathlessly, because you feel like he could go on forever.
“Yeah.” he chuckles sheepishly but without any regrets. “Let’s close up and have lunch?”
“I'd like that very much.” you say, kissing his nose. “And then, you are coming over to help me pick an outfit for the party.”
“Yep, exactly what I had in mind.” he grins cheekily, his eyes resembling a fox. You slap his arm as you step back to close up the counter while Jeongin picks up a broom and gets to work as well. You wonder how on earth did you get so lucky…
24 to 25 days of SKZMAS | December 23rd - Seungmin
pairing: Kim Seungmin x Reader
genre: meeting by chance
synopsis: Seungmin works as an HR assistant for JY Publishing. He is invited to help interview the new candidates for an open position and he is susprised to see an old friend. The very same old friend that they had a crush on back in college. Could this be fate?
warnings:-
words: 1016
23rd day of SKZMAS
December 23rd
Seungmin is having his day off. He asked for his holidays way in advance so he was the first to be let go on his Christmas break. He is window shopping, looking for nothing in particular but he knows he is searching for something. You are on his mind with every turn he takes on the snowy streets of Seoul. Then he finds it. There it is, sitting in the shop window, in all its glory, a huge polar bear plush, waiting for its rightful owner.
He does not hesitate a second to go into the store and purchase it for you. He hasn’t seen you since your last lunch date but he was able to score your number. You will start at JY Publishing in January and that is way too far from now to bear your absence. Maybe that’s why he is constantly thinking about you.
When he looks at happy couples on the street, walk hand in hand, your confession comes to his mind and replays on a loop over and over again. The amount of times I imagined making out in the back of the lecture hall… It makes him blush to this very moment. He wonders if he had the guts back then… if he has the guts now… what would happen?
Before he realises he hears the dial tone beep against his ear and once it stops he is taken aback to hear your voice.
“Hello?” you ask, and you scold yourself for sounding so eager. You haven't asked for his number in return, but when you saw the unknown number on your screen, you knew it's him.
“Hey, it’s Seungmin.” he says, his hot breath is like smoke, clutching the gift bag of the plush he got for you. “I really need to see you.”
It makes your stomach drop. Gosh, he- wait. “I-is this work-related or…?”
“Um, no…” he says shamefully, looking down at the bear. “Is that a problem? Sorry, you probably don't want to be bothered right before Christmas.”
“No- I mean ye- wait.” you blurt out, chuckling like a little girl. “You're not bothering. I- I am happy you called.” you tell him softly. “How are you?”
“I’m- I am very good, yeah.” He chuckles, a stupid grin on his face. “Um, I’m in the city just shopping. What are you up to- and well, how are you?”
“I'm much better now.” you say and your cheeks hurt from smiling so hard. “And I also happen to be in the city… did some last minute meetups.” you say, and he doesn't respond right away. “Seungmin?” you ask, and he hums. “Why did you call me?”
“Would you like to- have dinner with me?” he asks, trying to fake confidence. It can take you far, or so he heard.
“Dinner?” you ask unsurely. “You mean, as old friends?” you can't help but add.
“No.” Seungmin says a little too firmly. “Unless you want to!” he adds hurriedly. “But more in a let's date way.”
“Oh.” you say, but it only settles a moment later. A date! Seungmin wants to date you!! “Since when are you… interested in me?” you ask with a giggle.
“Since first day of college,” he admits. “I just never had the guts to ask you out. You had all these people begging to date you, I thought why would I be the one you say yes to. My cowardice was the reason I lost you and I'm not going to let that happen again.”
“Seungmo…” you whisper, and suddenly, you could run to him, no matter where he is. “You have no idea how much I want to kiss you now.” you tell him with a little giggle.
“Are you by the Christmas tree on the square?” he asks, noticing a familiar looking figure a couple meters in front of him.
“Yes, how did you know?” you ask and when there's no response you look around. Your heart stops when you spot him, just a few steps from you, standing there with a huge present and an even bigger smile.
“Hey there, gorgeous.” he greets you through the phone before hanging up. You feel like you are suddenly the main character of a cheesy rom-com as the two of you jog towards each other. You collapse in his bear hug, burying your face in his chest as he holds you tight. “Merry Christmas.”
“Gosh, merry Christmas.” you whisper, and the way he holds you in his arms, the way his cologne engulfs you… you feel like this is where you're meant to be. “I missed you.” you say, not only meaning the past few days but rather, the past few years. You missed him tremendously, and you didn't even realize.
“I missed you too.” he sighs, pulling back to look at you. You didn't change one bit and it makes him smile. You are still as cute as he remembered. “This is for you. I couldn't resist.” he admits, handing you the gift.
You take a peek in the gift bag and you gasp. “No! You remembered!” you giggle, your eyes filling up with tears because this man here, after all this time, still remembers your favorite animal.
“It called my name in a very creepy way.” he admits with a chuckle. “Buy me, Seungmin!”
“Oh, I see.” you nod understandingly before giving him a cheeky smile. “So, you really couldn't get me out of your head, huh?”
“Not a chance.” he shakes his head. “Would you like to get some mulled wine with me? It's pretty cold.”
“Yeah, it sounds nice.” you nod and pretend to walk ahead before stopping. “Oh, I almost forgot.” you say as you turn back, taking his hand and pulling him close for a kiss.
He lets out a surprised gasp as your lips crash against each other but soon he is kissing back, pulling you close. It really feels like you two are the main characters in a cheesy movie and it is the final happy ending that everyone was rooting for. Finally.
synopsis: Felix breathes Christmas and as the holiday approaches he gets more and more excited each day. That is why it comes as no surprise that he becomes the leader of the Christmas party committee for his company, JY Publishing. His friend, unfortunately, doesn't have the same jolly experience and Felix is determined to fix it.
warnings: -
words: 704
22nd day of SKZMAS
December 22nd
Felix knows you've been avoiding him. He would be a fool to think otherwise; you live opposite each other, it's impossible that you haven't run into each other all week. If not on purpose, then by chance.
But no. He gets home to a quiet hallway, missing you and your occasional bear hugs when you get home earlier than him. He once waited around the corner, trying to catch you off-guard because he thought you figured out his schedule and that's how you could always tell when he got home. Then, he realized you always check when he gets home through the peephole. The past week was painfully uneventful, though.
And he misses you. Of course he does; ever since you first became best friends, about five years ago, you haven't spent more than a few days without each other. And even then, you always called the other, seeing how they were doing. This time, though, it is much worse than any family vacation that forced you apart. Because despite living literally a few meters apart, he knows you don't want anything to do with him, and it breaks his heart every time he thinks about it.
He is unlocking his door, and is about to go inside when he hears metal sliding on metal, the quiet telltale of something he recognises only a moment later. He turns around to face your door.
“I know you're there.”
Reluctantly, you open the door being caught in the act. You missed him desperately but you know it's time to distance yourself from him, otherwise your feelings might never fade.
“I’m just getting food.” you admit shamelessly with a huge pout, locking your door behind you and turning your back on him.
“I have food.” he says simply, and why does it feel so awkward? Talking to you has never felt like this.
“I’m getting my own food.” you say stubbornly.
“Can we talk, lo- uhm.” he asks, swallowing the petname. “Please, can we talk?”
“I don't know. Are you going to coo at me like the little sibling I am?” you spat back angrily.
“That's not- that was such a stupid thing to say!” Felix says, almost whines because he will never ever forgive himself for that. “I was just trying to express how precious you are to me and my brain just, just farted out those words, okay?”
“You know, I still didn't hear your apology.” you fold your arms on your chest while lifting your nose in the air.
“I- okay. I am so sorry, alright? I am an idiot and I understand if you want nothing to do with me.” Felix says, and before he could change his mind, he goes on. “But you are truly the best thing that has ever happened to me and I can't believe I have been such a coward so far but I- I have feelings for you.”
You freeze. The last thing you expected Felix to do was to impromptu confess his feelings for you. And you find it hard to believe.
“What kind of feelings?” you ask, your voice three pitches higher than usual.
“The… the love kinda feelings.” Felix says and he chuckles. “I love you. Actually, I think I'm in love with you.”
“Felix…” you whisper softly and a beat later you run to him and jump into his arms. “I love you! Like love love!” you exclaim happily, heart about to burst out of your chest.
“Oh, thank god.” he sighs and holds you close, kissing into your hair. “I was so afraid I would lose you… I don't think I could take that.”
“You will never lose me, silly.” you chuckle, snuggling into his warmth. “In fact you won't be able to get rid of me!”
“That sounds like the best time ever.” he says with a wide smile as he caresses your hair. “And just so you know, we are going to the company party. You deserve to see it in full motion. And, well, I really want to show you off.”
“Oh my god!” you gasps, your eyes lighting up. “We have to go shopping then!” you take his hand in yours.
synopsis: Jisung and his crush work desk by desk at the marketing department of JY Publishing. Jisung is completely unaware of the mutual attraction but seems like only these two are oblivious to the sparks between them. They migth need a Christmas miracle to realize their romance is not hopeless after all.
warnings: light cursing, slow burn
words: 1177
21st day of SKZMAS
December 21st
“Why the long face?” Jisung asks, nudging Felix with his elbow. The two of them are decorating the hallway on the 2nd floor, and despite Jisung's love for slacking off, he is glad to help Felix. Especially since his bestie has bailed out on them.
“I'm fine!” Felix says, giving him a big fake smile and Jisung is having none of it.
“Don't try to fool me, I am the master of fake smiles.” he says, maybe more proudly than he should.
“But really! I'm okay, I can do this.”
“Are we talking about decorating or…?”
“Ah, I… guess we aren't.” Felix says, his smile somehow sadder than before and Jisung knows he was right. Felix is bummed out.
“I'm here to listen.”
“Yeah.” Lix says and there is a moment of silence before he goes on. “I think I was being an idiot.”
“What makes you think that?” Jisung asks with a hum, in no way hinting at the contrary.
“Well, I think I should've talked to them. About my… feeling, you know?” he mumbles, measuring the garland on the side of the elevator before cutting it to size. “I don't know, it seemed stupid at the time… like, is confessing and getting it off my chest worth potentially ruining our friendship?”
Jisung thinks about his answer for a second.
“Well, I think secrets ruin a friendship more than anything.” he says eventually. “Especially if it's something you have to live with every day. You are clearly into them, and they are into you! And hey, I can see why. You're handsome, funny, and the kindest guy I've ever known.”
“Ah, stop that…” Felix says weakly, but his lips pull into a smile.
“No, I mean it! I bet they would love to be with you!” he enthuses even more. “Like, the play-flirting and all has to mean something, right? Even if you're generally not that oblivious to things, love is, like, a code language of its own! All the little touches and inside jokes and looks? That's some spy movie shit right there.” Jisung nods along wisely. “And before you know it, you are in the storage room on the 3rd floor, getting tipsy and almost making out before someone walks in on you.”
Felix blinks at Jisung, utterly confused.
“What?”
“What?” Jisung asks, with a frown.
“Making out in the-”
“Y'know, hypothetically.”
Felix is about to say something before he spots you approaching the two of them. He would signal at Jisung to stop talking, or at least keep it down, but if anyone, the two of you would need a wake-up call.
You notice the two gushing excitedly and you so badly want to eavesdrop. Jisung has been even more nervous around you ever since your almost kiss a week ago and you wonder if it actually means something for him. He still hasn’t asked you out, not even for the office party so it is safe to say that you are more doubtful about your situation than before.
Jisung quickly whips around as he catches sight of you, his pretty smile turning into a nervous giggle.
“Hi! Uhm, how is the decoration in the bathroom?” he asks, obviously trying to change the subject between the two of them.
“It’s like a pine tree threw up on it.” you announce proudly. “What's up with you two?”
“We were just talking about love.” Felix says, and Jisung gives the funniest little sound at that. Like a mixture of surprise and a burp getting stuck in his throat.
“Oh?” you tilt your head. “Is it about your friend?” You look at Felix. “Because they are so in love with you… ah, I miss talking to them.” you sigh and the two look at you as if they see an alien for the first time. “What? Was I not allowed to make friends?”
“No, that's- I mean sure! Yeah! Friends are great!” Jisung says, nodding along.
“Have they, by any chance… said anything to you?” Felix asks curiously. “About, well… me?”
“Only good thing, for sure.” You shrug. “I assumed you were a couple just the way they spoke of you so highly.”
“Oh, jeez.” Felix huffs, burying his face in his hands. “I'm such an idiot!”
“No, hey, you can still save this!!” Jisung says and exchanges a look with you. “You could, uh, try calling them-”
“I did. I do, like every other hour.”
“Um, might be drastic but go to their house and trap them in a corner? They wouldn't have a choice.” you suggest, lifting your hands.
“Well, we are actually neighbors…” Felix says unsurely.
“See? Perfect! You can just say you got confused on the way home.” Jisung says simply.
“Do you guys really think I should do that? Should I go and bother them till they want to talk to me?”
“I would for sure. I would want someone to go the extra mile for me to show they like me.” you admit, glancing over at Jisung. “And who knows, maybe basically living next to each other was the reason why you fell in love with him in the first place. I mean, uh, with them obviously.”
“Oh…” Felix says, catching the small glance and it makes him smile softly. “I see. Well, this is really good advice, isn't it, Jisung?”
“Yeah, uh, I couldn't have said it better myself.” Jisung says, and he is not sure it's still about Felix's love life.
Soon, you are done with decorating for the day, and Felix heads home right away to fix his relationship. You are left behind with Jisung, who seems to be deep in thought.
“You have been unusually quiet today.” you tell him as the two of you pack away at your table. “Is something wrong?”
“What- no! I'm fine.” Jisung says, giving you a smile. “It's just… I don't know.” he hums, because are you the right person to talk about this with? “I just see all these coworkers – my friends – have relationship problems… and it makes me think it's lucky that we're both single.” he says, pretending to busy himself with a box of garlands.
“A-are you?” you stutter, feeling your heart break into millions of pieces. “I mean, yeah, I get it.” you say quietly, worrying your lower lip between your teeth.
“Right? Because you see how Lix is, and Seungmin is also lovesick recently, Chan has problems at home and Changbin also broke up with his girlfriend.” Jisung says, as if he is trying to justify it for himself. “Relationships are hard. I'd rather have a bunch of friends than mess it up for everyone.”
“I guess.” you mumble sadly. “But I miss being loved the way a partner would love me.” you add a second later. “Sometimes, I just wish we were dating.” you say, thinking there is nothing to lose.
“Yeah… I do, too.” Jisung says, catching your gaze before he picks up the box of decoration and turns around. “C'mon, let's put these away. I can't wait to get home.”
synopsis: Hyunjin is one of the best writers at JY Publishing. As the end of the year comes, he is one article short for a raise. The chief editor gives him the task of writing date ideas till Christmas which is also coincidentally his most hated holiday. Luckily, he does have a roommate with a great Christmas spirit.
warnings: -
words: 1085
20th day of SKZMAS
December 20th
Tomorrow is Hyunjin’s deadline. For the past two weeks, you have been going on dates every single day. Most of the time he complained about it, but you’d liked to believe that he secretly enjoyed it. What you didn’t know, however, was that he was fuming, having realized that he has feelings for you.
Hyunjin wasn’t the type of guy to fell in love easily. He always told you that he would never settle, that he will stay single cause no one can treat him the way he treats himself. He acted tough, like someone who is not interested in romance, but every once in a while you caught him shedding a couple of tears on romantic movies, or reading romance novels in the bookstore only for him to wave it off and flatout deny his interest. Hyunjin was romantic, hopelessly at that but it took him years to realize it’s all because of you.
You were there for him at his lowest, supported him through thick and thin and he molded his expectations around you to the point where if it weren’t you, he wasn’t interested. You were slowly engulfing him, fogging up his mind, made him completely blind to anyone else’s advances. He absolutely hated it. It was killing him to know that he had the potential to ruin the trust and love that the of you built through the years.
His mind kept racing alongside his heart when he looked at you. You were so effortlessly beautiful and perfect in his mind, he scolded himself for not realising sooner. It was just another “date”, the two of you were sitting at home, Christmas music blasting from the TV as the two of you idly wrapped gifts. Well, mainly you were wrapping gifts as he was too busy staring at you, memorising all your little details, like how your eyelashes kissed your cheeks when you looked down, or how you pursed your lips when you were concentrating…
“Finger, please.”
“What?” Hyunjin shakes awake from his trans, watching you with shocked eyes.
“Can you lend me a finger?” you ask with a giggle, glancing down at the little box that you're currently trying to tie a bow on. “To hold down the ribbon.”
“Uh, sure.” Hyunjin snickers, placing his index finger on said ribbon. “You should be more specific, you know. Someone might take it the wrong way.”
“Good thing that someone could never be you.” you tell him with a roll of your eyes. “You daydream even more than usual these days.” you say, nodding thank you once the bow is done.
“Look who’s talking.” he scoffs. “Clearly, you rubbed off on me.”
“Oh, you flatter me.” you bat your eyelashes at him before you hand him the present. “This one is for your mom. I hope they can make it over on Christmas Day!” you say, but then you remember something. “Or, oh, wait. You have the company party that day, right?” you ask, trying to hide your disappointment. You probably won't spend the day together…
“Oh, that's right. I completely forgot about it.” Hyunjin lies through his teeth. He has been thinking about the company party more these days because he… “We could go together. If you want.” he plays it off, not so coolly. “It’s glitchy, Christmassy and very elegant. Everything you like.”
“Hmm… as tempting as it is, I'm not sure I have a place there.” you say with a little grimace. “I'd love to be your bumper for unwanted flirting, but… you wouldn't want your coworkers to- speculate about us.” you say pointedly. You can't deny how much you enjoy the times when people mistake you for a couple… but not in front of the people he works with day by day. It would make it even more complicated…
“Are you seriously rejecting me right now?” Hyunjin asks, clearly not expecting this answer from you. “After all these dates… you really don't want me?” he questions again, a little quieter, hurt by his own words.
Oh.
Oh.
“I- of course I do.” you say, trying to look him in the eye, but he turns away. You have to take his chin between two fingers to make him look at you. “Hyune… do you… want me?”
“Yes!” Hyunjin exclaims in frustration. “You are driving me mad! You are the sole reason I can't even begin to look at anyone else but you…” he whines. “And it took me so long to realize… heh, so embarrassing.” he says, tearing at the tinsel to distract himself.
“Hyune.” you call his name, and as he reluctantly glances up, you scoot closer and take his hands. He squeezes them and your heart leaps but you decide to be brave. “Are you going to kiss me finally?”
Hyunjin thinks he is hallucinating. “You want me to kiss you?” he asks and you nod. His heart sinks suddenly and his stomach turns into the size of a pea. “Oh.” he mutters, scooting closer too and taking your cheek in his palm. He carefully swipes a finger across your cheekbone before leaning in to plant a soft kiss on your lips.
Your stomach is filled with butterflies at his gentle kiss, and you reach up to hold the back of his head, fingers tangling with his soft hair. You lean in to kiss him again, a little braver this time and he seems to enjoy it a lot too because he melts into the kiss, into your hold.
Hyunjin finally relaxes upon realizing that this is not a dream. He pulls you onto his lap as you makeout, a slow Christmas song starts playing in the background and it really makes him re-evaluate Christmas.
“Will you date me?” he asks in a quiet and nervous whisper, butterflies erupting in his stomach. “For real this time.”
“I thought you'd never ask, pretty boy.” you giggle and kiss his forehead.
“How was I supposed to know?” he whines, tickling you.
“You just were! I'm crazy about you, doofus.”
“You could have said that before, you know.” he huffs.
“But where's the fun in that?” you ask with a giggle before pressing one last kiss on his cheek. “Now let's finish your article together. I am in grave need of a cuddle session with my new boyfriend.”
“It will be some time for me to adjust to that name.” he chuckles with deep red cheeks and you have to kiss him again. You simply cannot resist him.
24 to 25 days of SKZMAS | December 19th - Changbin
pairing: Seo Changbin x Reader
genre: second chance
synopsis: By an odd chance Changbin runs into his ex in a shopping mall while doing Christmas shopping. Unfortunately, he is accompanied by his current toxic girlfriend. However, no one can deny the clear sparks between them.
warnings: -
words: 838
19th day of SKZMAS
December 19th
A week after your endeavor at your favorite place, you miss Changbin more than ever. You talked all through the night, exchanging stories and life events that happened in the absence of the other and it made you realize you are definitely not over him.
In the past two years, you've gotten used to being on your own. After the breakup, you went on a date every once in a while, but frankly, you got tired. No one was going to live up to the love and respect you got from him, and you were okay with that.
You think about your breakup more often these days. You were young and stupid, thinking you wouldn't make it in a long distance relationship… that's what your parents told you anyway. And when Changbin offered to move to the States with you for your masters, you had to break it off. You weren't going to ruin his chances at JY Publishing, the company he's been dreaming of joining, ever since you've known him. It gives you some comfort to know that he's made it. He deserves nothing less.
It's another busy day at your workplace, nothing but people swarming all over the place, looking for their very last-minute presents. You've lost count of customers asking for 'something flashy but not too expensive'. You fight the urge to tell them to get a flashlight instead.
“Excuse me?” comes soft a voice from behind you.
As you turn around you are met with two golden brown eyes looking up at you and it immediately paints a smile on your face.
“Hello, Mister.” you greet Changbin very professionally as you lean against the counter. “How could I help you today?”
“I'm looking for something special.” he says with a fond smile, eyes glued to your face and there is a certain air of confidence to him. Like someone who knows what they want.
“Then you came to the right place!” You grin at him. “Let me show you our best necklaces.” you pull out a velvet box from below the counter. “This is my favourite.” you say fondly as you open a case of the silver necklace with a small pink heart shaped pendant on it.
“It's gorgeous.” Changbin says, only taking a glance at the necklace before his eyes are back on you. “It would definitely suit you.”
“Not sure about that.” You blush and look down. “But your girlfriend would probably like it.”
”I am pretty sure about that. And also, I don't have a girlfriend.” Changbin says, as if it was that simple, that obvious.
“Wait… so that girl from the other day… did you get married secretly?” you squint your eyes as you measure him suspiciously.
“No… I haven't even asked her. And we broke up last week.” he waves it off, stepping in a little so you are close enough to smell his subtle perfume. “I have sorta found what I want… and it's not her.”
“Oh thank god, cause she was awful.” you sighs before realizing that the words slipped past your lips. “I mean, you could do better.”
“I know.” Changbin chuckles and takes your hand in his palm gently. “And I think now I know what I've been looking for.” he whispers, gaze flicking down on your lips.
“Changbin…” you whisper, licking your lips subconsciously. “Can we talk during my lunch break? It would be very unprofessional of me to make out with a customer.” you joke with a playful glint in your eyes.
“That's fair.” he smiles, but then looks around and when nobody's looking, he presses a quick kiss on your lips. “I missed you. I'll be back by noon.”
“I missed you so much, love.” you sigh, yearning for his kiss. “Can’t wait to see you again.”
“Me neither.”
Changbin walks around the mall for the next hour, looking at the decoration, humming along to the music, and just generally daydreaming about the two of you. The fact that you are still interested in him after all this time… he cannot believe his luck.
Your break takes its sweet time coming, and you make sure to check your hair and clothes in the mirror before leaving the store to meet him.
You find Changbin sitting by the fountain in the middle of the mall, eyes glued on you the moment he sees you.
“Hi there. Again.” he greets with the fondest smile, already standing by the time you get there.
“Hey.” you grin widely. “So, remind me, where were we?”
“Oh.” he chuckles, pulling you in his arms and hugging your waist. “Did I leave such a fleeting impression?” he asks but before you could respond, he leans in and captures your lips in a kiss.You can't help but smile into the kiss, wrapping your arms around his wide shoulders. The only thing different about Changbin is his muscle mass. He is still the loveable, kind, proper dork that he was two years ago. Most importantly, he is yours.
synopsis: Lee Minho is a driven and loyal employee of JY Publishing. He has been working for the company for a while now and he is determined to finally recieve his well deserved promotion. Unfortunately, he is not the only one who has their eyes on the position.
warnings: light cursing
words: 1428
19th day of SKZMAS
December 18th
The evaluation day comes faster than Minho expected. He gets the notice in the morning that by the afternoon, he is required to finish all his assignments for the week and at 2pm, he has a meeting with the CEO. He briefly wonders if you will be there, too.
You managed to stay somewhat civil with each other. At this point, he is convinced you are his personal purgatory, sent by whatever higher deity there is, only to cause chaos and despair in his life.
“I've never seen anyone look at their fries with such hatred.” Jisung muses, taking a bite of his burger.
“What?”
“You haven't even touched it. It's good, though. If you don't want it, I'll be happy to help with it.” Jisung says with a shrug, but eagerly waits for Minho's response. He doesn't even mind that he kinda slipped up about stealing from his plate.
“You can have it.” Minho pushes it towards him. “I can't eat.”
“What, why?” Jisung asks, as if it was the craziest thing he's heard all day.
“The eval is in like 32 minutes.” he sighs. Not like he is keeping count of every minute passing. “And if I don't get the position, I'm done for. I might as well pack my things and clear my desk.”
“They wouldn't fire you.” Jisung says and he sneakily licks the ketchup off his fingers.
“Oh, they would.”
“Would not.”
“How are you so sure?” Minho asks in a mumble.
“Bro, you're seriously dense sometimes.” Jisung says, to which Minho only responds with a look. “Yeah, I know I'm the densest in the whole office, but you're, like, a pretty close second.”
“... what the hell are you talking about?”
“You will see.” Jisung says cryptically, wiggling his eyebrows. He believes in Christmas miracles.
Soon, Minho is standing in front of the CEO's office, squeezing one hand in the other and he tries to compose himself. He barely realizes that you've walked up to him.
“Are you also shitting yourself?” You ask with a nervous chuckle, hands shaking.
Huh. “Well, if you put it so eloquently… yeah, I am.” he responds and crosses his arms on his chest. “How are you?”
“I feel dead.” you respond with a tired sigh, circles under your eyes are a permanent accessory by now. “Or rather, I feel like I’m waiting for my execution.” you correct yourself. “How about you?”
“About the same.” Minho nods in agreement. Then, there is a moment of silence. “You did well.” he finds himself saying as he looks down at his feet.
“You did better.” you admit in defeat, looking away and folding your arms on your chest. He is annoying.
“I'd hope so.” he gives you a handsome grin, but he laughs it off. “Honesty, I have no idea. I guess we'll have to see.”
“I guess. Don't think I gave up, Lee Minho.” you scoff as you step in first to the CEO's office. “Good afternoon.”
The next fifteen minutes pass in a haze. The CEO rushes through your accomplishments, your extra work, and thanks you for your devotion. She seems completely uninterested in the topic, trying to get over it as soon as possible. You exchange a look with Minho a few times… he seems to be just as lost as you are.
And then, it's time for the CEO to announce the result of the assessment. And the winner is…
“Neither of us?” Minho asks in shock. Did he hear that right? Did she really hire someone new to fill the position?!
“But… we worked so hard for this!” you exclaim, trying hard to hide your disappointment and anger but failing.
“I am terribly sorry, but… in light of recent events, I doubt I could make a fair decision.” she says, lifting her nose. “Given your… romantic affiliation with each other.”
The two of you are completely speechless as you leave her office and you stand side by side in the hallway.
“This fucking sucks.” you mutter. “It’s all your fault!” you accuse him immediately.
“Mine?!” Minho asks, shocked by the sudden accusation. “I was just kidding, and I didn't see you complain about it!” he says, pointing a finger in your face, and he is willing to push it even more because, well, it is kinda his fault. “Is it because you're in love with me?”
“Me?!” You gasp dramatically. “You are the one who is obsessed with me and flat out lies to our supervisor that I have feelings for you!” You scream and you two are causing a scene. Good thing no one can see in this secluded corridor. “I cannot stand you! You are such a piece of shit!”
“You never said no.” Minho says, his grin suddenly widening. He takes a step towards you and you take one back instinctively. Then another one and another one, and before you know it, you are flush against the wall, Minho basically pinning you there.
“Oh, sweetheart, are you scared of me now?” he asks, voice low and a little raspy. He can't help it, you affect him just as much as he affects you.
“I ain't scared of you.” you roll your eyes but gulp visibly. You are sure this scene played in your dream before but that ended with the two of you hooking up. That would never happen in reality.
“Oh yeah?” Minho asks with a shit-eating grin. He can barely holback… but he wants you to make the first move. “Then prove it, baby.”
“I fucking hate you.” you mutter with disgust, before you grab him by his collar and pull him in a kiss.
Minho smiles in the kiss before his hands settle on your hips and he pushes closer to you, practically pushing you up against the wall. He kisses you harder, all his pent up frustration surfacing as you make out. He groans in the kiss, then pushes his tongue past your lips. Fuck, you're so good…
You grab him by his nape as you kiss away the anger, and you melt against his lips. Maybe the reason why you have been mean to each other was because you were unable to express your attraction otherwise. It also didn't help that the two of you have been competing since your first day here.
“So, you are into me, huh?” you ask between two kisses, hugging him close.
“You are into me.” Minho corrects and he holds you in his arms, pressing small kisses on your lips.
“What if we both agree to defeat.” you hum with a cocked brow. But deep down you tell yourself that he was the first to fall for you.
“Deal.”
To your absolute terror, the elevator door dings and someone steps out.
“Oh, shit!” Jisung says, quickly covering his eyes as if he could see anything indecent.
“It's just you.” Minho says with a sigh and you bury your face in his chest.
“A-am I bothering?” Jisung asks before he exclaims. “The promotion!! Did you get it? Did you both get it?!”
“No.” you chuckle, hugging Minho. You don't want to say it but having him is better than any promotion. “Neither of us got it.” you say instead. “Which is good, cause Minho wouldn't have been able to handle the stress.” you add cheekily. Bickering is your thing after all, it would be weird to stop once the two of you start dating.
“And you wouldn't have been able to handle me as a subordinate. You need me to spice up your life.” Minho says with a smirk, tickling your side.
“I would have liked to boss you around though.” you admit with a huge grin. Jisung keeps looking confused between the two of you. “Let’s go grab lunch? It's on Minho.” you say, intertwining your fingers.
“Yay!”
“You still boss me around.” Minho rolls his eyes but squeezes your hand. “Fine. Let's go, then.”
“Wait, I have to call- be right back!” Jisung rushes off, leaving the two of you in the hallway.
“So… does that mean you are coming to the party with me?” Minho asks with a half smile.
“We promised, didn't we?” you ask with a grin, swinging your hands between your bodies. “Aren’t we an item?” you ask with not well hidden hopefulness.
“A very expensive, annoyingly perfect one at that.” he nods before scrunching his nose and squeezing you against his side. He cannot wait to be everyone's envy at the Christmas party. You are definitely the best thing that happened to him.
synopsis: Bang Chan is an accountant at JY Publishing and as the end of the year approaches gets complitely drowned in work. His significant other is worried sick as he keeps coming home late at night.
warnings: -
words: 1142
17th day of SKZMAS
December 17th
Chan kept his promise that he made a week ago. He kept leaving only an hour after his shift ended, always surprising you with bouquets or boxes of chocolate. It felt like he was really trying his best. However, despite his best efforts, the company was less and less satisfied with his work. He kept going to work way too early to be able to finish his assignment of the day and passed out early when he came home, sometimes even skipping dinner. You were worried to say the least.
“They want me to work on Christmas Eve.” he said one night when he came home, exhausted and body aching from non-stop work.
His words are like a cold shower. You immediately blame yourself, for asking him to come home earlier and this is your punishment. You are furious and hurt at the same time and you are trying your best not to take it out on Chan, who is trying so hard. But the thought of you not spending the holidays together, kills you inside.
“Why is it always you?” you ask, not much edge to your words, because if anyone should be angry, that's Chan. The sweet boy he is, though, he cannot fight back against this obviously unfair situation.
“I’m the best, that's why.” He chuckles sadly. “Don’t worry, I will figure something out.” he says, pulling you in to kiss your forehead.
“Okay.” you say, and it's your turn to kiss his nose. You don't want to say anything. You are tired of fighting, and the last thing you want is to hurt him even more than he is already hurt because of this. Because he likes to play tough, but you know better. “How about a massage, hm? You look like you could use one.”
“That would be lovely.” he sighs tiredly as his phone rings. Looking at the screen it is his boss. “I’m not gonna answer that.” he whines, flipping his phone to hide the screen. It’s the weekend after all.
“Good boy.” you coo, taking his hand and pulling him towards your bedroom. “You deserve a little reward. I missed you.”
“I missed you so much too.” He smiles fondly, feeling light on his feet as he follows you. You are his personal chill pill. “We could watch a movie tonight, what do you think?”
“That sounds wonderful.” you say before cupping his cheeks and pressing a kiss on his lips. “Home Alone?”
“Sounds perfect.” he sighs, falling into the mattress and pulling you on top of him. “How about we nap instead?” he yawns, holding you close as you rest your head on his chest.
“If I can get some kisses.” you barter and Chan immediately obeys, covering your face in kisses. You giggle and tickle him to make him stop, which just encourages him to kiss you more.
That is until you hear your doorbell ring.
“Are you expecting someone?” Chan asks, watching Berry jog to the door with small barks.
“Was about to ask you the same thing.” you say with a frow, and you try to think of anyone who would visit at a time like this.
“I will see who it is.” Chan offers bravely, as the person outside seems to have fallen asleep on your doorbell. Once he opens the door though, he is faced with his boss. “Oh? Mr Park, what do I… owe the pleasure to?” he asks with a cocked brow, watching his sweating boss.
“Channie?” you ask unsurely, right behind him. This man… is he the reason your boyfriend is dead tired all the time?
“Apologies for bothering you at home.” his boss says and he steps forward, as if he is expecting to be let in the flat.
“Yeah, uh, how could I help you, sir?” he asks, stepping in front of him to block his way, pulling the door closer to him while he leans against the doorway. One thing is for sure, he is not going to let the devil incarnate in his family home.
“Oh, it's- well. An urgent matter. I need to talk to you.” he says, trying to look larger than he actually is, and when Chan doesn't budge, he goes on, clearing his throat. “Congratulations, son, you are chosen to represent the department at the end of the year conference in Daegu, starting in two days.”
“Daegu…” you whisper, stomach dripping.
“It’s an honor, sir.” he says, looking back at you. “I would like to decline the offer, though.”
“What? What do you mean you decline?” Mr Park's eyes grow wide, looking between you and Chan and you try your best to bite back your smile.
“Simple, sir. I'm spending time with my family during Christmas.” Chan responds respectfully. “I already took my holidays for the next two weeks as well.” he says, to your surprise. He wished he could have announced it differently, but he managed to pull some strings and with the amount of unpaid overtime, he doesn't have to work until January 10th.
“That is- not the professional behavior I was expecting from you, young man.” his boss says with a glare, glancing at you where you are smiling to yourself. There is not much more to discuss here, so soon, Mr Park leaves and Chan closes the door behind him with a sigh.
“Two weeks?!” you ask, cupping his cheeks.
“Surprise!” he giggles, holding you by your waist. “I wanted to give the plane tickets on Christmas.” he admits with a pout.
“Plane- where are we going, Channie?” you ask, even though deep down, you know already.
“Paris.” he responds with his cute shy chuckle you love so much. “Surprise, again!”
You don't respond to that, you just hug him around the neck and kiss him, deep and channeling all the adoration you have for him.
“I love you. So, so much, Channie. You can't imagine.” you tell him, burying your face in his neck.
“I love you too, sweetheart.” he says, planting a meaningful kiss on your lips. “We also don't have to go to the office party.” he offers. “It can be just us.”
“But I already have matching outfits ready.” you say with a pout, running your fingers through his hair. “Unless you absolutely despise the idea of going.”
“No, I want to!” he says quickly, kissing your cheek with a wet pop. “I would be the proudest to have you on my arm before I go on my long awaited vacation, and they won’t see me for two weeks! It will be an amazing last impression.” he wiggles his brows.
You spend the rest of the evening cuddling up in each other’s arms under the blankets, having a movie marathon with endless snacks and warm drinks with lots of marshmallows. Nothing can get any better than this.
synopsis: Jeongin is kicking his 3rd year at JY Publsihing as an underpaid intern. Life could be a lot more enjoyable if he would at last recieve the position he has been dreaming of... but his usual coffee runs make it more bearable once a new barista starts working at his regural coffee shop.
warnings: -
words: 1056
16th day of SKZMAS
December 16th
Jeongin is standing out in front of the cafe shop, waiting for it to open. He is feeling a little silly as he stands there, the street fogged up and he can see his breath in the cold. During the last weeks, he has been visiting the store more and more, getting to know you. You told him yesterday that you will be doing the opening shift today and he was desperate to talk to you. All his little trips to the cafe were made better by your presence and that is why he is here now, two hours before he would start his own shift to talk to you in private.
“Do interns start at 6am?” you ask as you arrive, standing behind him and you giggle a little as he jumps at the sound of your voice.
“Shoot, you scared me.” he grasps his jacket over his heart. “And for the record, it doesn’t say that I cannot come to work early.”
“Whatever you prefer, handsome.” you shake your head with a grin and walk around him to open the coffee shop. You feel his eyes on you and you try to hide your smile. He is adorable…
“When do people usually come in here?” he wonders, taking off his jacket and hanging it up.
“Well, not at… 6:14am.” you tell him after a glance at the clock over the counter. To his little pout, you giggle. “Don't worry about it, yeah?” you wave it off and start doing your usual morning cleaning round. “We open at 6:30 but people usually start coming at around 7.” you tell him, wiping the counter, even though your coworkers cleaned everything up before closing last night. It doesn't hurt to be thorough, though.
“That’s perfect, then we can have coffee together. It's on me! Well, as long as you can make it.” he grins, leaning his hips against the counter and watching you from over his shoulder.
“From what I've seen so far, I would never let you make coffee behind my counter.” you joke, poking his shoulder playfully. “But sure, I think we could.” you say and you start on those right away. “How has your fight for a promotion been going?”
“It’s been going.” he lies through his teeth but you see right through him and after the look you give him, he goes on. “Not well. I don't think I'm ready yet.”
“Not ready for what?” you ask with a frown. “You've been an intern for years. Of course you are ready.”
“Maybe there is a reason I'm still an intern.” he shrugs. “Besides, if I weren't one, I might have never met you.”
“That's- you cannot compare these two things.” you say with a little frown, turning your back towards him. “That's your career, potentially your whole life… and I am just a barista.”
“Just? You should aim to be the manager here then.” Jeongin hypes you up with a smile.
“I could… but I'm not sure that's what I want.” you say with a shrug, pouring coffee for the two of you. “I like doing this. Serving people, making them smile, the small talk and the hands-on work. It's the best place for me.”
“If you say so. I would support you though. Imagine us two, climbing the corporate ladder, hand in hand.” Jeongin sighs, and the sweet aroma of the freshly brewed coffee hits his nose, shaking him awake.
“You are such a dreamer, little boy.” you say with a chuckle. You walk around the counter to place a mug in front of him, then sit down at the table. “I really like that about you.”
“Too bad I only daydream but never act.” he sighs, sitting down opposite to you. “You are very down to earth. I like that too.”
“We are a good match, wouldn't you say?” you ask, and watch his pretty face for a second, before adding. “I think you should stand up for yourself more, though. You will get that promotion, you just have to show them you are serious and they would be stupid to let someone as loyal and smart as you go!”
“I’m not sure… I don’t think they would lose much if they fire me since they only look at me as an intern anyways.” he sighs, taking a sip of coffee. “Uh lord, this is heavenly.”
“Well, but you know how everything works at the company. You probably have great connections, since you get coffee for so many different people. You are already someone who they can trust and with your brain, they could train you for any work, I'm sure!” you say, trying your best to fire him up. “Gosh, Jeongin, try to believe in yourself just half as much as I believe in you!”
“Stop being so nice to me.” he whines but his grin is unmatchable. “Your words are really… giving me a lot of energy. Listen, let’s make a deal.”
“I'm listening.” you nod, smiling back at him. His smile is so gorgeous.
“I will try to ask for that promotion and you will aim for a higher goal than ‘just being a barista’.” he draws air quotes in the air as he repeats your words with a cheeky grin. “And we promise to support each other through it all.”
“Ah… how could I say no to that?” you ask, and his childish glee makes you laugh out loud. “I can't wait to see you slowly become CEO.” you add with a wink.
“And I can’t wait to see you own this place and many others.” he smiles to and that’s when the little bell above the entrance dings, signaling a new customer’s arrival. “That is your que to leave, I assume.” he says with a sad pout.
“Yup.” you stand up with a sigh, patting his hair. “Coming back at the usual time today?” you ask as you tie your apron behind your back.
“Yes.” Jeongin nods. “Unless I get fired.”
“Jeez, you won't! Just go, or else you'll be late.” you wave him off with a giggle, stepping behind the counter. You serve the customer, and you think you see him watching you fondly from the corner of your eye, but by the time you've taken the order, he is gone.
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