Serendipity | Masterlist

Serendipity | Masterlist

Masterlist | Choi San x Reader | College!AU

#serendipty au | ignore time stamps

ser·en·dip·i·ty

noun

the occurrence and development of events by chance in a happy or beneficial way.

"a fortunate stroke of serendipity"

When the theater department is down on it’s luck and has to bring in record breaking sales at the end of the school year in order to garner sponsors or else they’ll be defunded, the lead invites a few dance majors to practice one Saturday morning. One volunteers his class to fill in for the ensemble just to see a smile. It all leads to two semesters of chaos in putting together a student written and composed musical, drama amongst friend groups, and a dance major falling in love with a set designer.

y/n protection squad | mountain man’s clan

extras

01 | a sign from the gods

02 | fellow students

03 | I swear I fell in love

04 | are you disappointed in me?

05 | k dude

06 | commitment issues

07 | honestly…

08 | I’m done

09 | @jwooyounh, who are you?

10 | father eden

11 | unbiased opinion

12 | too far

13 | real gentlemen + written

14 | punish me daddy

15 | love you ❤️

16 | not my baby girl

17 |

18 |

19 |

20 |

Tag List: @naiify @baguette-atiny @xciiiomwliah @atinybitobsessed @elk-1998 @noonaishere @layzfeelit @kodzukein @rge-nini @atinytinaa @atinysthings

Send an ask to be added…

I don’t respond to comments because this is only a side blog… So I’ll respond with screenshots and posts if I do.

| in love and lore | sparring headcanons |

okay, so no one asked for this, but....

i always planned on the boys eventually teaching mc to fight, and after this ask, these thoughts have been living rent free in my head. i may or may not have also worked on these instead editing the next chapter, but wanted to share these with you too. maybe, it’ll serve as something short and sweet until the next chapter?? which should still come out here in a few days. anyways, i hope you enjoy! :)

(individuals below cut)

also, if any of you are new, these are some headcanons based on my fic i'm currently writing. if you wanna check out, the link to the masterlist will be just below.

| in love and lore |

~

let’s be honest, they were all surprised when you came to them asking to learn how to fight.

you’re not a violent person and has always been against violence in the past, so you saying you wanted to learn how to fight was surprising.

you may insist it’s purely for self-defense (you can’t always rely on them to save you, despite their insistence they can and will) but it still sparks some interest in them.

okay, maybe a more than just some interest.

they still want you to lean on them for protection, but man the thought of you in battle really does something to them.

jongho

jongho is the best fighter out of all of them, and the one you’re the most comfortable with in the beginning, so he’s tasked with starting your training.

he really is a good teacher, but can be a bit hesitant at times.

he just really doesn’t want to hurt you!

freaks out the first time he accidentally injures you bad enough to leave a mark.

you wave his concern away, healing it in a matter of seconds, but it still worries him and he’ll start pulling back again much to your frustration.

despite the annoyance of treating you like glass sometimes, he’s still one of your go to sparring buddies.

though sometimes he does prefer watching and teaching you from the side.

go ahead and spar with someone else and he'll give you pointers.

as long as it's one of the others though, he wouldn't dare let anyone else spar and potentially hurt you.

if the others don't mind giving you a few scrapes and bruises, he'll let them.

and he'll always be waiting on the side with some water and praise, telling you just how good you're doing.

yeosang

yeosang is also a little hesitant when it comes to you.

prefers doing archery with you than sparring since that’s what he excels at.

100% will take advantage of teaching you to shoot as a means to get close to you.

mentally and physically.

will definitely pull the move of putting his arms around you to guide your movements.

may or may not use his ability every once in a while to make you think you’re doing bad as an excuse to get in close once more to help see what you’re doing wrong.

what you don’t know won’t kill you after all

though he knows you’ll kill him if you ever find out, so better make sure you never find out

will ask to make a competition out of it.

you’ll take it up on him occasionally, but refuse to take him up on his attempt to give the winner a favor/reward

nope, you're not falling for that.

he’ll try to let you win occasionally to bode you into accepting his offer, but you’re not an idiot.

you know exactly what he's doing.

that's okay, though. he'll get you to accept one of these days. he's just got to be patient

hongjoong

you were really intimidated the first time hongjoong wanted to spar with you.

it was bad enough when he would watch you with the others, but sparring with him was something else altogether.

doesn’t use his full potential, but not as hesitant as some of the others.

and once you grow more comfortable around him, fights get a little more interesting.

definitely the most heated out of all on them.

the first time you land a blow on him, you get so excited, knowing you actually did that and it wasn’t him just going easy on you.

may or may not rub it in his face and proceed to get a flurry of hits coming back at you in your distraction in retaliation.

of course, he feels bad when he injures you, but the way you pout is so enticing.

and not to mention he’s always there to offer to massage your sore muscles for you afterwards.

you refuse, but the flustered state it leaves you in has him repeating the offer.

but he really is proud of you and loves seeing how proud you are of yourself.

that and now he has an excuse to drink your blood, something he would never turn down.

now he’s just waiting for the day you’re comfortable enough to take him up on his offer.

wooyoung

smug bastard.

uses it as an excuse to just tease you.

doesn’t even try to hide his intentions and will do and say anything to rile you up.

his haladies mean he’s used to fighting up close and personal, and he’s more than happy to get in close with you.

genuinely just wants to spar with you to get you flustered.

you know this, but you’re also determined to wipe that smug look off his face by beating him.

whether or not you’ll ever achieve that though, who knows.

may or may not use his weapons against your clothing.

never in any intimate places, of course, he respects you too much for that.

but there’s no harm in showing a little skin, is there??

it’s a good thing you’re clueless or he knows you would kill him.

will never let you win a fight, but will let you injure him.

anything to have a taste of your sweet, sweet blood.

that and he loves the faces you make when you think you're going to win only for him to swiftly turn the tables back on you.

you know full well what his intentions are, but the longest you lasted was one day before you gave in.

if only to shut him up from all the complaining he was doing.

san

san is always down to spar with you.

in fact, he’s down there in the fields even when you’re not sparring with him.

he can’t help it though, he loves seeing you with a weapon in hand.

doesn’t tease you as much as wooyoung does, but succeeds in getting you riled up in other ways.

is it hot outside today, or is it just san??

oh well, he better take his shirt off and make sure he doesn’t overheat.

most likely to pull this move when your sparring with someone else.

you do your best to ignore him, but he can see the way your cheeks tint.

and the way you falter in your next move.

as much as he enjoys watching you though, he loves it if you watch him.

can and will get the majority of the others in on his antics, and absolutely relishes if you were to sit and watch him spar with one of them.

and if san is out there shirtless, you can guarantee he won’t be the only one for long.

may or may not get so caught up in trying to impress you that he and the others won’t have noticed you weren't even there anymore.

but that’s okay.

the way you’re struggling to hide the emotions running through you from the bond tells him and the others everything they need to know.

yunho

yunho is also hesitant when it comes to sparring.

honestly, the best teacher out of all of them, especially when he realizes it’s a great excuse to get in close to you.

oh, your posture isn’t right??

yunho’s there with a gentle hand at your back to fix it for you.

is your grip on your weapon wrong??

yunho is also there to fix it for you, guiding your body through the motions a few times before continuing the fight.

if you’re frustrated and need something to work your emotions out, he’s also you guy.

will let you beat your frustrations out on him before offering you emotional support in the end.

fights usually end with the two of you laying on the ground, exhausted, both mentally and physically.

loves how bashful you get afterwards, apologizing for dumping your life on him.

but yunho wouldn’t have it any other way, absolutely loving that you would open up to him in such a way.

mingi

mingi is one of your favorites to spar with.

though his expertise is in throwing weapons, it didn't take long to begin sticking with weaponry that stays in your hands.

you both had come to that agreement after the first few times he had tried to reach you to use his chakrams.

even without his ability, mingi’s aim was near perfect.

yours on the other hand, not so much.

he freaked out the first time you accidentally cut yourself on them.

he wanted to stop there, but you simply waved him away as you healed it.

the time you hit mingi though was a different story.

this time you were the one freaking out, mingi, on the other hand, relished the reaction it pulled from you.

if the way you looked at him wasn’t enough, it was you quickly offering up your blood to heal him.

and who was he to turn you down on such a sweet offer.

he's also a bit like san in the way he loves having you watch him.

the way you obsess over the chakrams after realizing how hard they really are is just too sweet.

the compliments, the praise.

it makes him melt.

seonghwa

not as playful or teasing as wooyoung and san can be, but pretty damn close.

it just depends on his mood

you can always count on him to use his ability to his advantage.

so much so, that you won’t spar with him anymore unless he doesn’t use his ability.

at times he really will try and help you hone your skills, pausing every now and then to help you fix your posture or point out the best way to counter.

but other times, he’s just there to get you all riled up.

will use his ability to pop up right behind you, whisper some teasing comment in your ear before teleporting away before you have time to retaliate.

but even when you don't allow him to use his ability, he's just as bad.

it gives him an excuse to stay up close, which is almost just as bad.

doesn’t have an issue with injuring you like most of the others.

would never do anything to seriously wound you, but just a few cuts here and there with his daggers.

after all, he knows you can just heal them up anyways.

and he can get a taste of your blood that stains his daggers

i hope you all enjoyed! i know i had fun writing them. if you liked this sort of post and want anything more like it, feel free to send an ask my way!

---

Obsessive || kang yeosang || pt 4

Parts ➞ [one] [two] [three] [four]

Part 4

Summary ➞ You tried to pay no mind to your brother’s friends and their flirty antics, but it always confused you when only one of them seemed disinterested in you. Even though you’d never admit it, he intrigued you—to the point where when you kissed drunkenly at party, you wanted more. And you were going to get it.

Genre ➞ enemies to lovers au, friends with benefits, party au, college au, smut, fluff, slight angst

Warnings/tags ➞ 18+, sex, drug use (weed), oral sex (female receiving), unprotected sex, friends with benefits cycle, daddy issues, toxic friends, heavy drinking, lots of intimacy, yeosang is a meanie at first, San is a flirt, party, hookups, etc

Word Count ➞ 6.3k

Obsessive masterlist

Taglist ➞ @atinywhore @ch0isa99ie @theaufanartist @wubbster @knucklesdeepmingi @yeosangsbiceps @hongshines @whatudowhennooneseesyou @fightinganimal @bunnybini @admiringyeosang

You found yourself sitting at a mini-mart at midnight before finals. Yeosang was quiet, but you were somewhat sure his mind wasn't. 

He sat across from you on the outside bench, a soju in his hand and a banana ice-pop in the other. He sure had a thing for sweets. 

"What finals do you have tomorrow?" He asked, taking a gulp of the soju as he took a side glance at you. He looked beautiful under the artificial light that shined down on him, the blue and orange hues reflecting onto his soft-toned hair. You weren't even paying attention to his question at this point. It was the least of your worries. What worried you was that you wanted to know why it was so hard to not think about what he was thinking about. It was a bit redundant, and maybe you were overthinking about overthinking. "Um, y/n?"

"Huh? What?" you mumbled, turning your gaze to him. He looked captivating under the moonlight, and the artificial rusty-orange light reflected beautifully off his white t-shirt. It was a sweet night to enjoy with a lover, and you still weren't sure what to call him. You make love to him, but you aren't in love. You kiss, but it isn't because you love. You spend time with each other, but only for what? You were confused, and you knew what you were feeling after the look he gave you.

"Are you okay?" he asked you, and you weren't sure whether to answer him honestly or not. Did he really want to know? Was he interested in your well-being just like you were with him? Did he also want to kiss you because he wanted to and not just because of sexual attraction? Did he…want to know your favorite color? Your favorite song? Your favorite things to do?

After thinking critically about your answer to his simple question, you offered him a nod. "Yeah, I'm fine," you hummed, taking a sip of the banana milk you held. You caught yourself wondering if he wanted to know that it was your favorite drink?

He furrowed his eyebrows at you, leaning in a bit too close for comfort. You've been everywhere on his body. You've been involved with him from midterms to finals, and nothing has changed. He's done everything to you that no one else has. So why were you just suddenly aware of how beautiful he honestly was? "You don't look okay…" he trailed off, and he reached out to grab your chin in his hands. You still craved his heart and body, and even though it was your own idea to just have a sexual relationship with him, you wanted to take back your words.

"No, I'm okay, Yeo." You offered him a smile, but he knew you better than that. You let him hold you in public as if you were a couple. You let him ask you questions; you let him learn new things about you. Yet, you had no knowledge about him other than he found you hot and that he loves sweets. It shouldn't bother you to the extent that it does, and maybe it's just proof for you to get over this and break yourself out of it.

He took a second to process your answer. He peered into your worrisome eyes with an apprehensive gaze and a hesitating hand. "Why? What's the matter?" He softly spoke, and he seemed to care about you. Much more than just physical, but your disruptive thoughts never let you realize it.

"I…" you trailed off, unsure how you wanted to go about your feelings. After all this time, you have never spoken to him deeply. You weren't sure how to go about it, and crossing that line seemed more like a jump than a step. Feeling like saying something would ruin all you had, you should be grateful for what you had, even if it was only a piece of the puzzle.

As you hesitated, you watched his worried look turn into a smile. His hand grazed yours, interlocking your fingers together. You weren't sure how to process this, but you took it as it came, and you felt his pulse within his palm. "Let's go." he hummed, taking the last bite of his ice pop with a wince. He stood up now, you by his side while he gripped your hand and his soju bottle in the other. You didn't question where he would take you, and you just let it happen.

Is this how you fall in love? Is this tightness in your chest supposed to hurt? Were you supposed to feel dizzy when he touched you? Was it supposed to hurt this bad?

You let him take you to the bus stop with a skip in his step. It was nice to see him happy, and maybe you should allow yourself to smile even if you weren't okay. You valued his feelings over your own.

You both couldn't drive, so the bus was the last resort. How romantic would it have been if he could drive you to the middle of nowhere in the middle of the night? How would it feel to be kissed with only the intent of expressing love and not lust? What makes it so different?

You sat quietly at the stop, your hand still laced in his. Maybe he was a bit drunk off of the soju, and perhaps you were too drunk off love, but it didn't even strike you that it was much too late for a bus to run. After a bit of time just sitting in each other's company, he stood up abruptly. "Fuck, I forgot it was midnight." He scoffed playfully and looked down at you as if it were a dream. His eyes were sparkling, and you could've sworn it was only for you. "We can walk."

Once again, he let out his hand for you to grab. You stared at it for a moment too long, but eventually, you held onto it, and he pulled you into his chest, a drunken giggle escaping his lips. "Oops." he smiled gloriously, and you couldn't help but gulp anxiously. His other hand held you by your waist, and it took everything in you to back away from him. 

After a moment, you were walking down the street hand in hand. He swayed it a bit, and you furrowed your eyebrows as you thought about if he felt this feeling too. Why were you so afraid of saying something, even if it was wrong? 

You grabbed the soju bottle out of his other hand and gulped it as you walked down the abandoned sidewalk. You had no idea where you were, especially since you weren't from Seoul. His eyes widened as you drank the liquor, but his smile was still evident. "Damn, baby."

Goddammit. Your heart pounded at the pet name, and your fingers tightened around his in reaction. You took another big sip, hoping to just feel a bit tipsy. You laughed it off as you took the last drop, and you turned a corner to walk up a long, steep hill.

"Stressed about finals, hm?" He wondered aloud, and you didn't have the courage to tell him you were stressing about him. It was hard to breathe as you tried to figure him out.

You nodded, but you were barely listening to him. You started to feel your body warm up from the toxin alcohol, and your legs lightened as you made your way up the hill. The warm spring air hit you in a slight gust of wind, and the sweet smell of flowers delighted your senses. Your nose twitched, and your eyes were trained on your sneakers as your feet moved without thought.

He didn't say anything after that. He kept his pace even with yours, even if you were walking slow. Once you reached the top of the hill, there was a blooming tree with a bench underneath, almost like a scene from a movie. You weren't sure how this would end, but shouldn't you enjoy it rather than worry? You believed it was the alcohol kicking in when you finally dared to look into his dark eyes.

"How cute." you smiled at the tree and then looked back to Yeosang, and you saw a bit of clarity. You made your way to the bench. It was covered in soft pink petals, and it was a bit worn in, but it made it better. You sat down, the tingle in your chest replaced with warmth. It was time for a distraction from the negatives. So what if you didn't end up with him? At least you have him now.

"Isn't it?" He sat down next to you with a smile. You were obsessed with how he could simply sneak into your heart, and doing things like this made you a mess of emotions. You looked out toward the city, high enough to see the lights along the Han river. His hand rested on top of your thigh, and you let out a sigh as you watched a plane fly over the lit-up city. It reminded you of a shooting star, and maybe you just wished it was so you could make your wish come true.

A bit of time passed, but you didn't even process it. Just being next to him made your heart happy, and you rested your head on his shoulder. He stiffened up at your contact but let loose a bit after a few seconds. You wondered if he felt it too once again, and the only way you would ever find out is if you bring it up.

"What's your favorite color?" you asked him softly, the taste of grape soju still prominent on your tongue. It seemed trivial, but you knew the deeper meaning of that question.

He laughed a bit, and you shook along with his shoulders. "Black," he spoke simply, and you looked up at him slightly. You noticed his beautiful birthmark on the side of his face, and you wanted to lean up and kiss it. You didn't, and you brought your gaze back to the horizon. He was still prettier than it.

You offered no response in hopes of him asking you about yours. You looked down at his hand that held your thigh when he didn't. 

"Do you like sunsets or sunrises?"

He hesitated but answered smoothly. "Sunrises."

You smirked a bit, hiding your emotions. "I pegged you as a sunset guy."

He shook his head but then rested it on top of yours. "I think sunrises are more romantic than sunsets," he nearly whispered, low and deep. "I just think about waking up to someone…and maybe eating breakfast and watching the sunrise together. Maybe a cat or two." He chuckled, but you frowned. This was a new side of him for sure, and this is what you wanted. But you also wanted him to ask you about what you thought.

"A cat or two?" you sighed, but you wondered if he thought about you in his future like that. "So you're a romantic?"

He laughed at that too, maybe nervously. You couldn't tell. "Well, yeah. But I don't know what I want, really."

"You just said you wanted to watch the sunrise with someone while eating breakfast with a cat or two." you stuttered a bit, not moving your head off his shoulder. You kept your eyes on the horizon and your hand on top of his. "It seems like that's what you want your future to be," you spoke out, your grip on his hand loosened slightly.

He stayed silent for a moment, yet he didn't ask you how you felt.

You sighed. "What's your favorite season?"

"What's with all the questions?" He asked you a bit abruptly. Your heart began to crumble at his tone. Still, maybe you were a bit too concerned about other things than to notice his vulnerability. 

"I just…" you trailed off, picking your head off his shoulder. You sat close as his birthmark stood out from his tanned skin. You wanted to kiss him again, but you held back from your desires. "I want to get to know you."

He stared at you blankly, and you didn't notice the slight hesitation in his eyes. He didn't act on his desires either, and he kept his gaze in your eyes without a break. 

"Why?" He scoffed a bit, a frown on his face. "There's nothing special about me."

You wanted to laugh at that. You kept your emotions in check, but you couldn't hold back your words. "Well, I wouldn't know since I have no idea who you are. You also know nothing about me."

"What do you mean? I know who you are—"

"Yeosang." you tilted your body towards him now. You were a bit tipsy from the gulps of soju, so you had just enough courage to ruin the moment. "What's my favorite color?"

He didn't have an answer. The look on his face seemed like he was hurt, but you kept going.

"What do I like better? Sunsets? Sunrises? The moonlight? Do I like to read? What is my favorite food?"

He was silent. Too quiet. It looked like he wanted to cry, but he clenched his jaw as you bled into his soul. 

You stood up then and walked over to the railing as you barely held yourself together. You weren't sure why you cared so much; it didn't make any sense. You were the one who wanted this, so stick with it. 

You didn't pry about anything after that. You felt his stare at the back of your head, but you didn't turn around to meet it. "Just ignore that rant." you groaned, tossing your head back in irritation.

"I can't tell what you're thinking," He murmured quietly, and you heard him sigh as he stood up. Now, he came up to you, wrapping his arms around your waist to turn you towards him. His hands slipped up the side of your shirt, but you weren't sure if that was intended or an accident. His touch was cold, but his gaze was sweet. Maybe just as sweet as the banana pops he loved so much. "But if something is bothering you, just tell me."

He looked into your eyes. There it was again—that sparkle. Your image is reflected back to you through his eyes as if it were a mirror showing how he sees you. You didn't answer him. In fact, you didn't have an answer anyway. You just nodded, your heart feeling heavy as if whatever you had was ending.

After a few moments, his gaze dropped from your eyes to your lips. His hands now slid down to your clothed hip, and he tightly grabbed onto them as if he was afraid to let you go. His eyes bounced from your lips, nose, and eyes again. He wanted you. He needed you. He was obsessed with you. But in what way? You knew the answer, but just like how obsession worked, you wanted more.

You pressed your lips to his. He stood still, and his mouth moved slowly across yours, and he breathlessly kissed you back with slight desperation. His touch felt warm now, and the grip he had on your hips disappeared as his hands now found their way to cradle your face gently. He tasted sweet—it was pretty fitting for him. You always wondered what he tasted like. What he would kiss like. However, this kiss was the first time you felt as if he loved you.

He pulled back for a moment, the soft pink petals falling through the air around him like raindrops. Maybe they were.

You felt the cold sprinkle of rain then, and the flower petals now mixed with the rain as if it were one. You rested your forehead against Yeosang's, his hands still holding onto your face like you were the most precious thing to him. He smiled as the rain fell through the tight space between you both, and you couldn't help but smile too.

He pulled you in again, his one hand now resting on the back of your soaking-wet hair. It was magical. You wondered if he was thinking about how you tasted and if he could feel your heartbeat against his own chest. Were your hearts beating at the same rhythm? Did his beat for you?

Something changed in the air. Maybe it was your last kiss. Maybe it was a goodbye. You weren't quite sure, but you also had no idea what you were to each other. 

Maybe there was a reason for it.

That same night was the last night you shared the same sheets.

—

It ended like nothing happened. You distanced yourself from him for the sake of your own heart and because you wanted to be the one eating breakfast with him and watching the sunrise. You were scared, though, and you worried that you weren't the one he was imagining. If you were, then he should have said that then. He should have asked about your favorite color. There were many things you both should have done, and maybe it was the immaturity you both harbored with your lack of experience with love.

Nothing was set in stone though, and you were sure that Yeosang just thought you were caught up with your finals. From all he knows, you guys were still together, in whatever way that was anyway.

"What's wrong with you?" Your brother grumbled as he sat next to you in the library. You had your head down into your textbook, trying to cram the last bit of information for your last final. The problem was that your mind was filled with other things.

“Nothing, just you sitting here.” you joked with him, but he was able to see through you easily.

“Y/n, I’m not dumb.” you brought your gaze to him now, worried that he may have figured out your fling with Yeosang. With a knowing smirk, he leaned up on his elbows. “You’re seeing San, aren't you?” he chuckled childishly, and you couldn't help but scoff.

You shut your textbook aggressively. “What made you think that?”

He shrugged, sitting back up straight as you packed your things in your bag. “Come on, I know you've been sneaking into the apartment and the only one ever home is San. Yeosang is always out fucking some girl or something.” He had it all wrong, but you wondered what Mingi would think if he knew you were the one Yeosang was with.

“Actually…” you stopped before you said anything rash. “What if I said I was with Yeosang instead of San?” you acted like you were joking, and mingi took the bait with a chuckle.

“Stop lying, that's a funny joke.” He hit you playfully. You weren't sure how to take that, but you kept your face serious although there was no way he would believe you. You didn't deny anything, but he changed the subject pretty quickly.

Would there be a problem if it was Yeosang? Why did he think you were joking?

“Did you finish your finals?” You asked him as you took a bite of your snack, you weren't even sure what it was, but it was the only thing left in the library’s vending machine and at least it was edible. The day was almost over, and you haven't seen Yeosang alone in days.

It was the last day of finals though. You had already begun to pack up the pile of clothes you had in your apartment, and you were a bit glad you didn't have much baggage. Physically, at least.

“Yeah, I’m all done. Just waiting for you so we can go home together.”

Oh. Home. You haven't really thought about going back to your home, which wasn't all that far from seoul. It was the fact that you had to get up and leave whatever type of relationship you had with Yeosang.

“I'll be done tomorrow morning.” You felt your phone buzz, and you knew who it was. “Can you do me a favor and get my bags from my apartment? I don't really want to spend my last night here in that shithole.”

Mingi tilted his head as if he was trying to figure you out. You were twins, he had some feeling with how you were acting, but didn't pry. “Okay, will your shitty roommate be there?”

You shrugged as you stood up from your seat. “Who knows. She might have gone home already.”

He nodded, and he followed you out of the library and into the warm sunny air. It was beginning to get scorching outside as the April rain turned to May's sunshine. You smiled up to the clear sky in hopes of clearing your mind. You waved him goodbye as he went on his way to your apartment, and you made your way to the dining hall for something to eat for lunch before your last final.

Just as you turned around a corner, You almost ran into a boy and nearly dropped your phone onto the ground. Lucky for you, but his phone wasn't so lucky. 

You reached down to grab the phone. “Jeez, I’m so sorry—”

“Y/N?” His voice was soft and deep, but you didn't recognize who it was until you came eye to eye. “You told me to wait for you and I ended up going home alone. You're a heartbreaker, aren't you?”

Seonghwa. His hair was as dark as ever and his smile was just as bright as his eyes. He looked at you with a playful glance and a tilt of his head. 

“Seonghwa.” You breathed out, awkwardly rubbing your elbow as he took his phone from your hands. “I’m sorry about that, I was a bit drunk and—”

“Hey Hey,” He chuckled, taking a step closer to you with a smile. His hand reached out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind your ear. “Don't apologize, it's all in the past.”

You let out a sigh of relief and allowed yourself to stare into his eyes. He was insanely close to you, and you weren't sure if you wanted to tell him you had a boyfriend or not. You honestly didn't, so what excuse do you have? You couldn't lie though, he was extremely attractive, but you couldn't help but think about Yeosang’s eyes as you peered through Seonghwa’s.

“There's a party tonight at mine,” His hand caressed your cheek now, and you were too captivated by him to notice someone coming up from behind you. “It’s a going away thing, so bring whoever you want.”

“Seonghwa.” A deep voice rumbled behind you, and you felt the familiar embrace of your “lover.” Yeosang wrapped his arms around your stomach tightly and leaned his head onto your shoulder as he spoke to the older boy. “What are you doing with my girlfriend?”

Girlfriend?!

Seonghwa took a step back with a smirk, and nodded his head as he tried to process it all. “Oh? I wasn't aware you two were dating?” He smiled at you, noticing your confused expression. He remained respectful though, and offered you some space. “My bad, I was just inviting her to my party tonight.”

Yeosang’s eyebrows furrowed. “Party?”

“You're welcome to come.” He smiled kindly, but gave you a flirtatious gaze. “Go out with a bang, right?”

You watched Seonghwa walk away after that, and once he was out of view, you wiggled out of Yeosang’s embrace sharply.

“What are you doing? Girlfriend?” You laughed painfully, stuffing your phone into your back pocket of your jean shorts while he stared at you with a frown. “I don't remember ever being your girlfriend.”

He took a second to respond. He looked beautiful though, you couldn't deny it. His hair was fluffy from the humidity and his birthmark highlighted his gorgeous brown irises. God, you couldn't get enough of him. You didn't want anyone other than him. “I didn't know how else to say it.” He spoke softly, and it killed you to be upset.

“Dammit Yeo,” You groaned, taking a step closer to him. The sun was beating down on you while your anger boiled your mind.”What does that even mean? Does that mean you want me to be your girlfriend?”

He was silent. You took that as a no.

“That’s it. I’m leaving. Take care of yourself, okay?” You sighed, not feeling the argument over something so trivial.

As you took a few steps away from the man you wanted to call yours, you heard the words you never would have imagined.

“I’m not good enough for you, Y/N.” He whispered, looking down at his feet. You felt the vulnerability seep through those words, and it was enough to make you stop in your tracks. “I should've just ended it before it started—”

“Before what? The sex?” You turned around to face him, but he was unable to meet your gaze. “Yeah, maybe that would've been a good idea—”

“No.” He shook his head with a grimace and approached you slowly. “No, I mean before that. I should've stopped it once I met you.”

You were confused. What did he mean, once he met you? “Wait what—”

“I mean that I fell for you the minute I saw you goddammit.” He groaned. “And no, I don't want what we have to just sex. I want you to be the one sitting at the table in the morning with me. I want to wake up next to you every day and fall asleep next to you every night.”

You froze. You wondered why he couldn't tell you all of this before, and the past few days have killed your self esteem. You had to acknowledge that it wasn't just his fault though, and you had a major role in the miscommunication,

His face was flushed as he brought his gaze up to your eyes. You saw enough. You saw the tremor in his hand and the sparkle in his eye. You knew it, and you knew what your heart wanted. Whatever this feeling is, you were going to let it blossom until it bloomed. “Yeo…”

You didn't care where you were. You might've been in the middle of campus under the shade of a few large trees, but the sun was strong enough to break through the tension. It hit him in the face, cascading him in golden rays while he stared into your soul. You didn't care where this moment would lead you, but you crossed the distance between you two and grabbed onto his face.

“So are you trying to tell me you like me?” You whispered. “Why didn't you care to ask the questions though?”

He frowned as he thought about what you meant, but the minute he realized it, he smiled at you—a smile that sent butterflies flying around your stomach. “Because I want it to happen on its own. I want everything to fall into place, y/n.”

“So you weren't being dismissive?”

“Well, I was. But it was because I wasn't sure that you wanted me the way I wanted you.” He blushed a bit under your embrace, and you looked into his eyes deeply.

You took a second for yourself before you acted on your heart. “So what you're saying is—”

“For fuck’s sake Y/N just kiss me already.” He growled, gripping the back of your head and pulling your lips to his. You felt your heart nearly beat out of your chest, feeling the ache throughout your whole body. You fell into him as he deepened the kiss, his tongue pushing through your teeth to explore your mouth. You wanted to deepen it even more, but you remembered you were out in public.

“Let’s go.” You moaned into his mouth, and pulled away to grab his hand. He followed you obediently like some kind of dog until you made your way into the apartment building. The door was locked, and you prayed that no one was home. You had a bit of a window of time until Mingi came back with your things, and you stumbled into the dark apartment without a care to flip on the lights. You were surprised when Yeosang slammed your back into the door to shut it, and he gripped your ass to lift you up to his body.

You gasped as his lips met the crook of your neck, and he walked you into his bedroom.

He tossed you onto the bed, but it was gentle. His hands slowly let go of you and he straddled you with a look of love on his sharp features. His ears were bright red and his mouth was parted, and you couldn't get enough of him. He slowly slid off your top from above you, and your breaths intertwined as he came face to face with your bare skin. His breathing sped up while he leaned down to take your nipple into his mouth, and his left hand came up to cradle the other. You moaned as he claimed you with his lips, and you wanted to tell him all the things you wanted him to do to you.

After you tossed each other’s clothes off, he took a second to admire you. You wanted sex, of course, but what you wanted the most was to feel his love, his touch, his mind. You wanted to take care of him when he was sick, and wanted to make sure he was okay after a nightmare. This is how you fall in love, right?

He made love to you then. Real love. His heart pounded against your chest as he pushed himself in and out of you. You gripped onto his shoulder blades as he fucked you, your fingernails leaving crescent-shaped moons into his skin. His touch was like a flame, and you wanted to be burned. 

He moaned as he came into you, falling onto your chest with a sigh and unable to breathe. The room was stuffy and it smelled hot like sex, but for some reason it wasn't enough. It was never enough.

After a few moments of enjoying each other’s company, you ran a hand through his smooth brown hair. He smiled and you couldn't help but blush at his expression. He was facing you on his side, your legs tangled together in bliss. 

“Want to get a shower with me?” He whispered so softly that it was almost hard to hear him. His cheeks were still flushed from it all, but his sweet smile was hard to ignore. 

You didn't need to say anything. You softly kissed him though, and he smiled widely into it. It was as if he wanted to cry, he wrapped his arms tightly around you as you shared the space. You broke all the barriers that kept you apart. Well , there were two more walls yet to burst down, and you were sure you'd be fine after the aftermath. 

You followed him out of the room and towards the shower, totally naked and vulnerable. It was quiet, and you thanked the lord that no one was home. You entered the bathroom with a shy smile as he turned the water on. He didn't bother turning on the lights though, as the thin window above the tub let in an ambient amount of light.

“Come here.” He hummed, beckoning you to come closer with a flick of his finger. Your core pulsed at the gesture, and you almost wanted to hide your face in embarrassment.

The steam of the hot shower filled up the room, making it harder to breathe than it already was. You kind of liked how it felt though, and the minute Yeosang pulled you under the water was the minute you knew you were a goner.

His hot breath met your neck, and he kissed you there and began to trail down your body. You gasped as he kissed down your stomach and down your thighs until he was kneeling before you like a sinner at church. You gripped his wet hair tightly as his mouth met your heat, and you let out a moan as his tongue entered you forcibly. He slowly moved his tongue around you, making sure to hit every spot he needed to. He knew exactly what he was doing, and you couldn't get enough of it. You were obsessed with his body and his soul, and finally, you knew he was obsessed with you.

He stood up slowly, his hands sliding up your body as he reached his full height. There was something about how dangerous he looked in the moment, and what was even more interesting was the way he looked innocent at the same time. His eyes were focused on yours without any distraction, and he pushed you up against the wall with your back to his. He whispered something in your ear, but you were too far gone to hear what he was saying. He slammed into you without warning though, and you let out a groan of pain and pleasure and he rhythmically moved into you as the water hit you like flower petals of a tree. 

The sound of the water eased your mind, as well as the sounds of his grunts. He rested his head on your shoulder as he pumped into you, giving the base of your neck kisses. You wanted to fall to your knees for this man, but he has already shown you that he would do anything for you. He gripped your hair sharply and caused you to gasp as his other hand gripped onto your waist.

No words were spoken. He admired your body with his gaze and his touch while you let him ravish every part of you. You were too busy being lost in his trance to hear him whisper sweet nothings into your ear, and you let yourself reach your high as he reached his.

He moaned as he came, and emptied himself into you with breathlessness. You pushed your head against the cold shower wall as he pulled himself out of you, and then you turned around to pull him into an embrace. There was so much that you wanted to say, but he just smiled at you so sweetly as if it said a thousand words. 

And your kiss was everything that you didn't say.

—

You managed to escape the bathroom before Mingi came home, but the minute you got back into Yeosang’s room, Mingi entered the apartment with a sigh as he lugged in your luggage. “Hello? Anyone home?” He yelled out, and you hurriedly rushed to put on your clothes while Yeosang looked like a deer in headlights.

“The door was open…”Mingi furrowed his eyebrows in confusion, and you paced the room not knowing what to do. You tried to stay as quiet as you could, but you knew you were fucked. At this point you would rather Mingi find out straight from you rather than someone else.

As you made your way to the door, Yeosang grabbed your arm sharply. “What are you doing?” He hissed out quietly, resembling a cat. 

You smiled at him with a shrug. “Leaving everything behind.”

You opened the door then, and caught your brother’s attention immediately. He was too focused on setting your luggage nicely on the floor to know it was you. “Is that you hyung? I hope you don't mind but my sister is going to say here–”

“I wouldn't mind at all.” Yeo chuckled as he emerged from the room from behind you, making Mingi look up with confusion until he came face to face with you. Yeosang was only covered with a towel around his waist and you were drowning in his oversized shirt and a pair of his underwear. You looked like quite the pair, that is until Mingi opened his mouth.

“So uhh….are you two a thing?” He looked back and forth between you two, and your drenched hair and Yeosang’s state gave it all away.

“Duh. I even told you earlier but you didn't believe me.” You scoffed and Yeo’s eyes widened, but mingi looked surprisingly entertained.

He smirked at you both, and stood up straight and crossed his arms over his chest. “Well I'll be damned. I could've sworn it was San because of how much he’s all over you—”

“He’s all over you?” Yeosang growled a bit, taking a step closer to you. Mingi couldn't hide his happiness at Yeo’s jealousy and neither could you. “Still?”

“No, he hasn't tried anything with me for a while.” you turned around to face your lover. “Plus, he’s just a flirt. He means well.”

“Yeah, right.” Yeosang scoffed and tightened the towel around his thin waist while Mingi stood with a knowing smile.

“Anyway,” you looked back over to your brother. “I thought you’d be mad at me for dating your friend.” You pestered, to which mingi scoffed at that.

“Are you kidding? At least I know he’s going to treat you well. I’d be more scared if you were dating Wooyoung to be honest. At least Yeosang can keep his dick in his pants.”

You let out a chuckle at that, and everything felt stable for once. Everything except the fact that you forgot about your last final. At this point, you weren't even mad. Your obsession with Yeosang ran deep. Deep enough for you to forget about your future and only care about having him in your present. Oh well, you were going to enjoy every last moment with your “boyfriend”, even if all he was supposed to be was a fling. Still though, you were a bit mad that you missed your final.

“Dammit... Kang Yeosang, I'm going to kill you.”

---

Love From Italy | Part Two

Pairing: Seonghwa X Reader

Word Count: 3507

Genere: Fluff, love at first sight, Strangers to lovers.

Warnings: mentions of drinking, indications that reader is female (if anything is missing please tell me)

a/n: Hello everyone! i hope you're doing amazing. Please like and reblog. feed back is highly appreciated, thank you for reading :)

Love from Italy | Part One

"OH Y/N!" Your friend shouted in a sing-song voice, pulling you out of your world. You stepped away from Seonghwa, a blush coating your cheeks at being caught. Seonghwa ran a hand through his blonde locks, not being able to look at you, red coating his cheeks.

Your Friend rushed towards you with a small smirk on her face. "Y/F/N! Slow down!" Her fiance called out, trying to keep up with her quick pace, worried look on his face, ready to intervene if she said something out of line.

"Well, well, well," she taunted, “you must be the mysterious guy who brought my friend home last night" she raised her perfectly shaped eyebrow.

You rolled your eyes, knowing exactly what she was doing.

"I'm Y/F/N" she smiled at the man, putting her hand out for him to shake and with a chuckle Seonghwa grabbed onto her hand, letting out a small groan of hurt at her grip.

"S-seonghwa" He grunted out, pulling his now red hand away to his body, shaking the pain away.

She narrowed her hazel shaped eyes at the man before her and scanned him from head to toe, till a look of recognition crossed her face. "Do I know you from somewhere?"she asked.

You snapped your confused eyes to your friend's fiance, asking silently with your expression what she is  talking about. Seonghwa tensed at her question, his breath hitching, his actions  didn't go unnoticed by you, making you raise your right eyebrow at your best friend.

"it's just you look....very familiar, what's your last name?" She questioned, taking a step towards Seonghwa.

F/N is small but when she's determined to find something out, she can be quite scary.

The boy took a step back, wide eyes staring back as he gulped, looking down at your friend who inched closer to him.

"Because you look exactly like par-ssdgjhdskjghdks,” Her fiance covered her mouth and pulled her away from the scared boy.

"I'm so sorry about her, she's just very protective of our dear Y/N here" He nervously laughed.

You groaned and hit yourself on the forehead apologizing to Seonghwa for your friend's craziness, he just laughed and shook it off.

"I get it, I would also be wary of a stranger talking to my best friend out of nowhere" He showed you his pearly whites, while staring into your eyes, brushing his hand against your own, igniting butterflies in your stomach.

"My name is Kim Seonghwa" He said, turning towards your friend's fiance and shaking his hands.

"I hope i wasn't interrupting, i just saw Y/N and i had to see her again and the fact that we found each other again just blows my mind" He smoothly replied, making you feel giddy inside. You brushed a strand of her behind your ear and squealed internally.

You cleared your throat, hesitating before you spoke up, tugging on Seonghwas white shirt. "We were just about to go get lunch, would you like come?" You tilted your head towards Seonghwa and gave him big puppy dog eyes, inching your way closer to him and grabbing his must admit bulging bicep.

You heard your friend gasp quietly in shock at your actions, knowing that you would never give someone those eyes and touch them so boldly, but her seeing you act this way made everything more clear to her, you like the stranger and a lot.

Seonghwa, enticed by the way you were staring at him, nodded like an idiot, making you give him a little smirk.

Seonghwa ran a hand through his hair and cleared his throat.

"I know a place we can go".

"How did you get us in here!?" Your friend's fiance screeched over the live music playing in the equally loud restaurant.

The fresh smell of Pizza wafted around the over crowded restaurant making you smile as you observed the rest of the people. Some loudly laughed, others shared dessert and you lastly saw a elderly couple clink glasses together before you turned your head to the menu.

Seonghwa watched you, finding it endearing how you didn't need much to be happy.

He turned towards FF/N, who was giving him a weird look. "A friend who works here owes my a favor"

That answer for FF/N was enough for him to go back to looking at the menu.

"We can't Afford this, it's to expensive"

You hear your friend say, moving your gaze towards the prices, your eyes widened once you saw how much a glass of wine cost.

Your friend stared at Seonghwa with an unamused look in her eyes, a scowl forming on her lips.

You kicked her shin under the table, making her eyes snap towards you. "Be nice" you mouthed, she rolled her eyes in response.

Seonghwa chuckled at what was going on in front of him, finding your interaction cute.

"Don't worry about it," Seonghwa leaned back in his chair a smirk forming on his lips "It's a early wedding present from me"

The three of you stared at each other with wide eyes, not wanting to  lose your chance at eating at one of the most expensive restaurants in the city you all mentally agreed.

"Well if you insist!" Your friend's fiance enthusiastically replied, pulling in her chair closer to his as they giggled together, scanning the menu.

You smile to yourself watching the interaction, when the feeling of a body being very close to you made your hairs stand to a point.

"Order whatever you want Carina" Seonghwa whispered gently

An non audible groan left your throat as you watched from the corner of your eye as he went back to conversing with your friends as if nothing had happened.

Yep Seonghwa will definitely be the death of you.

After rounds of wine and spectacular foods your friends seemed to have loosened up around Seonghwa.

"WHAT I WAS 15!" You screeched as the group of three broke out into laughter, holding onto their stomachs as their faces turned red.

"Hey i farted on my first date" Seonghwa Casually said, making you burst into laughter.

You grabbed the glass of red wine in front of you and drank the last of its content, swallowing the burning liquid, you placed the wine glass down on the wooden table, a small tap ringing.

"It has floral stamps like wisteria and violet," you said, smacking your lips together.  "you can also taste small red fruits and medicinal herbs, embellished with suggestions of austere spices, tobacco, goudron and bloody nuances".

You turned towards Seonghwa, a small smile forming at his shocked face.

" On the palate it is rich and enveloping, with compact and powerful tannins"

The boy's mouth dropped open, making you chuckle and with delicate fingers, you gently pushed his chin up, closing his mouth.

"You - you - you speak wine?" He sputtered out.

"She doesn't just speak wine ," Your friend replied taking a sip of her beverage, locking eyes with Seonghwa "she eats, breathes and sleeps wine"

"I interned as a tour guide at one of the most well known vineyards in our country, so naturally during my time there i learnt a lot"

The blond showed an expression of recognition at your words, and your answer to his next question would turn his whole world upside down.

"What Vineyard did you-" but before he could finish his question, your very drunk friend stumbled out of her seat and ran in a zig zag form towards the bathroom and without another word you shot out of your seat and ran behind her, ready to hold her hair back.

You pulled  the door open to the expensively decorated bathroom and let it close quietly. The sound of coughing echoed against the ceramic walls, letting you know what stall your friend was in.

"You okay?" You kneeled down beside her, pushing her matted hair away from her sweaty forehead, placing your cold hand on her pale cheek, letting her head rest against it.

After a few second passed till she took a deep breath and nodded back, opening her eyes and hauling herself out of the cubicle and to the sink, you sighed, flushing the toilet and straightening to your highest form, you leaned against the cubicle and stared at your friend with a worried look on your face, as she splashed her face with water.

"Is something wrong?" You asked, as you observed her turn off the tap and grab a paper towel to dry her now lively face.

"I feel like there's something off about Seonghwa"

Your eyebrows furrowed at what she said, making your heart beat out of dread. She saw your expression change and calmed you down with her next words.

"It's not that he's a bad person...

"I just feel like he's not telling the whole truth"

She met your eyes with a concerned look in, as she caressed your arms. You took a deep breath.

"You seem to be falling in love with a stranger way too fast"

Your last boyfriend left you broken in so many ways that your friend couldn't recognize the girl you once were, she was there to pick you up, hold you as she heard you cry you heart out every night when you couldn't sleep and you know damn well she wouldn't let another person make you feel that way every again.

"I promise to be careful" you whispered, holding her gaze. The girl pulled you into a hug, holding onto you tightly as if she were afraid to lose you.

"I don't ever want to see you that way again, it killed not just me but the rest of your friends and family to see you so lifeless"

She sniffled, a few tears falling onto your shoulder, you pulled away whipping her tears, a small grin made its way onto your face.

"I didn't make you out as a crying drunk"

"and you ruined the moment"

The laughter of the duo chorused around the restaurant as they made their way out of the bathroom and towards their table at the now deserted establishment.

"Hey whats wrong babe?" your friend questioned her fiance watching as his eyes had unspilled tears.

The only thing he could do was wave his left hand in front of his face as if saying he was okay.

"I'm," he hiccuped " I'm j-j-ust drunk," He locked eyes with you and he started bursting into tears.

You turned your head towards Seonghwa as he warmly smiled at your friend, turning towards you he sent you a knowing look as if he knew something you didn't.

"Okay guys let's go home" You sighed out, ready to haul your drunk friends home.

The stars twinkled down on you as you left the restaurant, quietly talking to the tall boy next you as you observed the drunk in love idiots in front you dance around sloppily.

"Thank you so much for paying and i'm really sorry for the way the night ended"

a boisterous laugh left the boy as he stopped in his tracks, staring at your friend's play with the waters of the trevi fountain.

"This is the most fun i've had in a while" He smiled as the duo now pushed each other into the water.

You stared at your friends as they shared a drunk kiss under one of the waterfalls, making you bite your lip at the thought of how you will get them home.

Suddenly the soft touch of Seonghwas hand landing on your cheek and guiding your gaze towards him made your heart stop.

His deep brown eyes scanned your lips, thumb brushing over the crease

"Don't do that," He whispered, inching closer to you.

"What?" You whispered back, going onto your toes to get closer to him, the smell of his musky perfume invaded your senses, making your knees go weak.

"Bite your lip" he chuckled out, looking to the side for a second before turning his attention back on to you, his already dark eyes now an onyx black.

"It makes me want to kiss you"

Before you could respond you were brought out of your world by the sound of your friends chanting your name, for them to join you in the fountain.

You walked a few steps to the edge of the fountain and paused in front of them, hands on your hips, an amused expression on your face.

"You’re going to get sick"

They whined back at your response, replying with boos and you are a party pooper, as they made their way out of the fountain, water splashing everywhere and dripping onto the concrete floor.

Seonghwas POV

"Are you okay to walk home alone?" The boy questioned as the group stood infront of his home, looking behind the girl only to see her best friends running around like little children.

"Yes I promise i'll be okay," she grinned up at him, eyes twinkling in the dark, her eyes looking like the stars that hung above them.

"I'll text you"

Seonghwa chuckled "How?".

The girl in front of him blushed from embarrassment, she hadn't even asked for his number, she shyly took her phone out of her purse and opened the phone app to a new contact and took a photo of the handsome man.

"Hey that's unfair i wasn't ready" He whined, receiving her phone and typing in his number, putting himself in her contacts as Toothless with a black heart next to it.

She chuckled once she got her phone back not realizing the boy had taken his own phone out, camera at the ready, the sound of the camera going off.

"Nooo" she whined out covering her face, Seonghwa stared down at the photo he took of the girl.

"예쁘다" he whispered to himself

She took his phone and thought for a second at how she should put herself in his Contacts, giggling to herself, she typed away, making the blonde boy raise his eyebrow.

"Here you go" she smiled, handing him his phone back.

Light fury with a white heart

"Okay i think it's time i take these two home"

Seonghwa felt a wave of sadness wash over him at your words, "Yeah you should, if you need anything just text me" He replied.

She nodded at him, sadness pooling into her eyes "Goodnight Seonghwa" She rounded up her friends and held on there hands as she dragged them away to the place they were staying at.

"I dwont lwike youu Kim Seonghwa" Your friend slurred out, "butt you maake my fwiend happy"

"Oh my god, bye seonghwa, thank you for the food," you groaned. You walked away scolding your friend for her words, as her boyfriend waved bye to the blonde boy.

When you were out of sight tHe boy groaned and slammed his head into the door of the building, stupid why didn't you ask her out, he thought, He stayed there, looking down at his black gucci shoes,listening to the crickets chirp, the fast paced sound of foot steps reached his ears.

He looks up and sees Y/N running towards him at full speed, he opens his arms ready to catch her, she wraps her legs around his small waist and buries her hands into his hair as she hugs him tightly , no kiss just a hug, both breathing heavily as he slowly lets her down, her hands still in his hair. It was now or never 

"Will you go on a date with me?" he breathed out trying to regain his breath.

She stared into his eyes, "I thought you'd never ask," she replied, kissing him on the cheek, and just like the first night they met she walked back facing him, playfulness radiating off of her body as she bit her lip.

"Pick you up at 12"  he breathed out.

She nodded at him "Good night handsome"

And with that she turned and jogged towards her friends who were passed out on a bench not far away.

Seonghwa opened the door to the building and hurriedly made his way to the third floor where his apartment was situated and with shaking hands, he opened the door and closed it loudly, leaning against it as he spilled the next few words to his friends.

"I have a date"

The once noisy room filled with the boys screaming at his flat screen tv came to a standstill as they all stopped in there place, the chip that Mingi was putting into his mouth fell onto the floor, leaving a loud crunch in its wake, San and wooyoung threw the controllers to the game that they were playing on the ground as they rushed towards Seonghwa.

"CODE RED GUYS! I REPEAT CODE RED!" Wooyoung screeched.

"GET THE SKIN CARE YUNHO!" San screamed, grabbing Seonghwas hand, dragging him towards his room.

"FORGET THE SKIN CARE! WHAT IS HE GOING TO WEAR?!" Hongjoong replied, running to the boy's wardrobe.

"I'll bring the snacks," Mingi called out from the kitchen.

Seonghwa couldn't help but smile as he plopped down onto the edge of his bed, watching as his friends ran a muck around his room but he couldn't care about the mess that would be left.

He was just happy to finally spend some alone time with you.

"Ouch! Stop pulling my hair" you whined, as your friend bushed through your messy bed hair, she looked at you through the vanity mirror and rolled her eyes.

"if it were Seonghwa pulling your hair you'd be saying something else". She taunted, making you scoff in reply.

You pulled your knees to your chest, making yourself comfortable on the vanity bench, when your phone dinged with a new message.

Text From Toothless 🖤

Good morning beautiful ❤️ I'll be there in 30 mins. I can't wait to see you.

"And it's only 11:30 AM, he's on time" your friend said, peering over your shoulder as she curled your hair.

You smiled to yourselg and hugged the phone to your chest. "I haven't felt this way in a while," you whispered quietly.

A small smile made its way to your friend's face. You deserve to be happy even if it's for a little while, but the fact that you would be leaving in a week made her frown.

 she let out a sigh and whispered "you look beautiful," letting the last strand of curls fall into place, she watched you get up to stare at yourself in the floor mirror, the frilly white dress accentuating your body in the most perfect way.

"y/n?" she questioned, making you turn in your spot.

"Yeah?"

"I kno-"

But before she could finish her sentence the sound of a car honking outside,made your breath hitch.

"A gentleman and he's on time" She muttered to herself.

"How can i dislike him".

You ran into your room, across from hers, grabbing your purse and your matching white heels, you both met each other in the hallway, when the all familiar scream of happiness from your friends fiance made you both bolt down the stairs to seeSeonghwa dressed to the nines leaning against a red ferrari.

"And he's rich," your friend whispered, leaning against the doorway, as she watched her fiance caress the red car.

"Carina" Seonghwa breathed out, in awe at you.

"You look" He grabbed your hand, twirling you around, "Divine"

The way Seonghwa was staring at you, would make any man fall to their knees, his eyes shined with want, and if he weren't holding your hand, you would've probably been the one on your knees.

"What about you?" You replied, scanning him up and down, "you look amazing".

Amazing wasn't the word you'd use to describe Seonghwa in this moment, he looked God-like.

Seonghwa chuckled looking at the ground and silently turned around, opening the door to the front passenger seat.

"The best seat in the house" He said, holding your hand as you got in, once you were situated, he closed the door and made his way to the driver's seat.

Your friend Whistled at the blonde boy, "I'm watching you pretty boy, you hurt one hair on her, i will handle you myself, understood?" She taunted.

"Yes ma’am" He saluted.

Once the car door was closed, Seonghwa revved the engine to life. You waved to your friends and turned to stare at Seonghwas side profile, only to find out that you liked the sharpness of his jaw and how hot he looked concentrated staring at the road, a little crease between his eyebrows.

"so," you started.

"Where are we going?"

Seonghwa looked at you, behind his expensive black ray bans, hiding his mischief eyes. He grabbed your hand, placing it on gearshift, only to place his warm hand on top of yours.

"On an adventure".

And with a big smirk on his face, Seonghwa sped up, a squeal leaving your lips.

You were about to have the ride of your life.

a/n: As promised part two. i hope you enjoyed reading this part, if anyone wants to be part of the taglist for love from italy please send an ask or comment. Remember that Tumblr works off of reblogs, it means a lot to us writers.

Taglist: @mingkifvrr @variety-is-the-joy-of-life @avantalem @meginthebuilding27 @jaehunnyy

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Where Do I Go

bodyguard!jongho x reader (royal?au)

genre and warnings: angst, fluff, suggestive, violence warning

word count: 23k

synopsis: you're the owner of hotel crescent in mist island, where secrets are traded. you're infamously known as the gossip-dealer and known for manipulating people, which means you're not safe. however, the last thing you expect is your power-hungry father to send jongho to be your bodyguard, but you suspect it's not because he fears for your safety but because he wants to keep tabs on you as he joins prince woobin's side while you join prince hongjoong's side. as your father comes from eden to mist island to become the minister of foreign affairs, the political situation between the two nations worsen and you fear for war, but you risk your life for your homeland, and find jongho joining hands with you as you both uncover secrets and betrayals from your father.

You clicked the necklace into place as you stood in front of the mirror, admiring how the ruby provided a starking contrast with your midnight blue gown, the square neckline making a display of your collarbones, the sleeves full and fitted just like the bodice after which it fell in an elegant flair down to your ankles. You clicked your fingers and the maid arrived behind you, fixing the tied curls in your hair upon your indication. Everything about you screamed mystery and power, and you both loved and hated that. 

“I’ll be back soon after midnight- have a warm bath prepared for me.”

“Yes, ma’am,” the maid bowed before leaving and you stepped into your matching flats. For the past half an hour your maid had basically polished you- styling your hair into an elegant but messy bun, doing your routine makeup, dressing you up. It was time to get to the counter and deal with your ‘customers’. You took a deep breath, glancing at the sword that was hanging as a decoration in the living room. Smiling, you left the room and walked downstairs, greeting the maids and waitresses that bowed to you before settling behind the counter, your usual spot where you managed the guests- of course, that was also a pretence among the other things about your personality.

“Good morning, Sakura. I hope everything is in order today.”

“Madame Lee,” the receptionist bowed, motioning you to take her seat- she would now be moving to the other desk until you leave. “Everything is well. I hope you’re doing well.”

“Absolutely,” you smiled, waiting until she was out of sight before you sat and pulled out the register, sitting on your seat and glancing at the few customers you had- some of them were residing temporarily here, while the others dropped by for breakfast- either to meet a resident or to mingle. You sighed, feeling a little bored- you always did, in the mornings it always got interesting around evening, when the people present would exchange gossip and secrets, make decisions that could change the course of this little island that was home to many- Mist Island. 

Of course, no matter whether you were busy or not, time flew. You had quite a few interesting guests in your hotel today, and right now, almost 10 in the night, you were dealing with a… difficult client who was testing your patience with every passing minute.

“Look, Madame,” he began, his eyes travelling all over you as he smirked. “All I’m saying is it’s dangerous business to get involved in places you aren’t meant to be.”

“I hope you haven’t forgotten, Officer,” you sipped tea, glad there was a table between you two- you wanted nothing more than to kick him in the shins. “Money buys everything. You, of all people, should know.”

He raised his brow, wondering just what you were implying. It didn’t help that you wore your statement smile that revealed nothing but at the same time, made men shiver with worry. “Yes… money buys everything.”

You tilted your head, pleased to see he was confused. “If you can afford a secret, we’ll have a deal. You know I only give out freebies if I feel generous, or… if it could provide for some entertainment in this boring town. And frankly… I’m not feeling very generous right now, I’m afraid.”

The Officer made a face, nodding his head slowly in denial more than agreement, his black uniform almost blending with the leather chair in the dim lights. “And what pleases you, Madame? I’ve heard it’s not always money that you demand.”

“A secret in exchange for an even better secret, or… something valuable to you would do,” you grinned and the Officer thought you looked like a magpie at that moment, ready to snatch whatever caught your eye. “So?”

The Officer bit his lips nervously, leaning forward once again. “I’m desperate, Madame. I need to know what the Prince’s Right Hand and the envoy from Eden talked about. Don’t you care about the future of Mist Island? I think that should be enough to tell me the secret- I report to the Prince and I think the Prince’s Right Hand is betraying him-”

“You’re wrong about that, I’ll give you that, at least,” you relaxed back. “The Prince’s Right Hand is very loyal to the Prince- all of Mist Island knows that. You have nothing to worry about- you don’t need to know what they talked about now, do you?”

He almost pulled out his hair and you smiled- he was definitely reporting to someone else other than the Prince. You leaned forward, pretending that you were about to share some scandalous thoughts- and perhaps, you were. “Officer.. If you tell me who you really report to, I’ll give you the secret for free. I promise. And your secret will, of course, stay safe with me.”

The Officer paused, thinking about it. He had clearly not expected the owner of the hotel to be so clever and curious like a cat- it could be your besetting sin, he thought. “Hotel Crescent is an interesting place, I must admit.”

“And you’re welcome here anytime. I don’t forget a face,” you smirked. 

“Well…” the Officer threw his hands in the air before surrendering. “I report to the Minister of Defence. He’s keeping tabs on everyone around the Prince in case someone betrays him- you know how the situation is between Mist Island and Eden these days. He’s preparing us for the worst, he says.”

You only nodded, giving him no reaction. “We should always be prepared for the worst, in any situation. Well, thank you for the information. One of my maids happened to overhear the Prince’s Right Hand and the envoy talk about changing the Minister of Foreign Affairs- perhaps, someone well known in both Eden and Mist. They would prefer someone from Eden, which would be quite… strange, if I have to admit.”

“Ah,” the officer shook his head in disbelief. “That’s a shame. Someone from Eden as the Minister of Foreign Affairs? Way to make it obvious that Eden wants to take over our land.”

“Well, a secret for a secret. Our deal is sealed,” you winked before getting up. “Enjoy the rest of your tea, Officer.”

You smiled to yourself- you had played this one well. Of course, the Prince’s Right Hand was loyal to the Prince. No lies there- but it really was the Prince himself that this ‘concerned’ officer should be worried about. It still looked like most of the court was unaware of the schemes cooking in the palace. And then there was the matter of the head post of the department of Foreign Affairs-

Oh, how you had resisted the urge to tell the officer that it was your own father who wanted that post. You couldn’t help but think about ways to mess up your father and his little mission to become the Minister of Foreign Affairs here- the audacity-

The bell at the door indicated the arrival of a person and you shook your head, ridding it off the schemes, looking ahead at the man who had a rather big suitcase with him. You smiled at him as you opened the register. “It looks like you’ll be staying here for a long time, Mr…”

“Choi. Choi Jongho,” his voice was low and he looked around. 

“Choi Jongho,” you repeated, writing his name. “Room no. 1117 is free. May I ask the duration of your stay?”

“Might be a day, might be… longer,” he smiled politely and you nodded, almost narrowing your eyes- you had definitely seen this face before. “Can I have dinner before I settle in my room?”

“Of course, I’ll get you a table in the corner, if you prefer,” you sighed at the loud group of people that were occupying the centre of the hall to your right. “You must be tired after all the travelling.”

He only nodded in response and you called for a maid, muttering your orders and asking one of the porters to transport Mr. Choi’s bags to his room. The maid accompanied the man to the corner and you finished writing his entry, pausing when you realised just where you had seen him-

In Eden. With your father.

Had he sent this man on business? If he had, he would never have stayed here- you and your father were worse than enemies when it came to business. Perhaps he had sent him to spy on you.

A devilish smile creeped up your cheeks as you shut the register and took a peek at Choi Jongho, who was ordering his food. As soon as he was done, he met eyes with you and you were surprised that he didn’t immediately look away like any other man would have. 

You didn’t exactly know who he was- you had only seen him once, perhaps twice, in your father’s office in Eden. Perhaps he didn’t know you as well and this was a huge coincidence on his part, but you couldn’t sleep tonight without knowing the truth. So you waited until he was done with his dinner and before he could get up without tea, you took the liberty of sitting down across from him with a cryptic smile. 

“Tea is on the house- unless you’d prefer another drink.”

“That’s very kind of you,” he raised a brow, shaking his dark bangs away from his face. “Madame… Lee, is it?”

“The one and only,” you scoffed. “How’s Mr. Lee doing? I hope Eden has worn him down more than he’d like.” 

The way Mr. Choi paused and shook his head, told you that your suspicions were right. You scoffed in disappointment. “What are you, his spy? He must be growing anxious back there since my business is booming.”

“Not a spy,” he told you and waited as the waitress arrived with tea. Once she was gone and you had taken a sip and he was done scanning you, he began. “How did you know it was me?”

“I don’t forget a face, Mr. Choi,” you said and he whistled. “Especially one I’ve seen near my father.”

“He has some… other plans.” When you only raised your brows as an indication that you were waiting, he sighed. “I understand that you had an… accident recently in one of your dealings? I don’t know exactly what you do, but your father thinks it’s best that you hire yourself a bodyguard- nothing too fancy, just a shadow.”

“Interesting that he would suggest so, since he’s the one who cares the least for me,” you narrowed your eyes at him. “Mr. Choi Jongho, I’ll deal with any ‘accidents’ I have myself. You can return and inform my father of that- I don’t require a bodyguard.”

“Maybe we should talk privately,” Jongho noticed the maids at the other corner. “You have a lot of eyes on you.”

You took a deep breath, willing the anger roiling in your stomach to calm down and nodded. “You can come to my room at the strike of midnight. When you go to your room, make sure you don’t unpack- I have a feeling you’ll be taking the next train back home.”

Before hearing what Jongho had to say, you were back to your desk and Jongho scoffed to himself- you were a handful, just like your father had described. Haughty, spoiled, and more- you were proving your father correct. He noticed the permanent smile you wore even as you worked and he wondered if you never got tired- but then again, people like you lived off the gossip that travelled around here.

A gossip dealer, Mr. Lee had explained to Jongho, not going into the details. Gossip, he explained, was a two-edged sword. It could cut the wielder if dealt with unprofessionally. But as Jongho looked around at the hotel that even your father admitted was a pretty successful venture, Jongho had to admit perhaps you did have the brains after all. This place couldn’t run without a good head.

Jongho never went to his room, opting to wait right where he had been sitting, reading the paper and catching up to the news. At the strike of the clock, he found you staring at him and with a tug of your head, he was up and following you to the room on the first floor, at the very end- a suite. He watched you turn the keys and open the room, allowing him to enter first before you shut it behind you and turned the lights on. 

“Please, take a seat,” you said and Jongho understood what you meant- stop stalking around. Jongho passed a nearly devilish smirk before he settled down, noticing the sword. “How long have you practised?”

You were surprised that he didn’t dismiss the sword as a mere decoration- or perhaps, your father had told him. What you didn’t realise was that he noticed the blade looked like it had been sharpened and the hilt wasn’t in top condition. “I’ve practised long enough. Now… shall we get back to business?”

“Look, Madame,” Jongho turned his full attention to you. “Things between Eden and Mist Island are going to get rough- this is me speaking, not your father. You need a bodyguard, especially with the job you do-”

“And what, exactly, is my job?” You crossed your legs, smirking. “I’m interested in hearing what Mr. Lee told you about my job.”

Jongho licked his lips, finding it difficult not to groan at your displeasing behaviour. “Gossip-dealer?”

You couldn’t help but scoff at that. “I understand why I should hire a bodyguard- I’ve had this thought for a while now. But tell me why it has to be you, who’ll most definitely be reporting my every move to my father.”

“Obviously your father knew that you’d be against the idea, but I’m patient and he must have thought I’d do a good job,” he relaxed back and you frowned in confusion. “He trusts me, and you can use it to your advantage if you wish. I have to find a few answers on this island as well. Maybe we can make a deal, think how it’s going to work for the both of us.”

You stared at him- he could pass as a local here. He didn’t look strange- plain dark hair, no unusual fashion sense. Everything about him screamed ‘normal’ which was going to be beneficial to you- this was probably a disguise and you could use someone who could pass away almost unnoticed in the crowd. Yet… there was this unmistakable air of mystery to him. Just what answers was he searching for that he was risking his life to become your bodyguard? He had to know just how many people targeted your head on a daily basis, didn’t he? You asked him that and he let you know that he was fully aware of the risk.

“Let’s hear what you have to offer then,” you studied him. “If I don’t agree, we can part ways right here.”

Jongho smiled as he nodded. “I’ll let you choose what exactly I report to your father- you have to give me something so he doesn’t get suspicious. He has other spies here anyway so we should act cautiously.”

“Other spies, huh?” You scoffed- you knew you weren’t paranoid when you felt like someone was watching you at the most random times. “What makes you think he won’t find out about our little deal? He’ll make you regret ever betraying him because you sound like someone he trusts enough, yet here you are, relaxed as you plan to betray him.”

“I think you’re a good actor,” he smirked and you snorted. “And so am I. I don’t see the problem if we’re agreeing on these conditions. I won’t betray you if you don’t interfere in whatever I’ve come here to do- nothing political unlike your field of work, I promise.”

“I think we can work with that. You’re right- he’s going to find out sooner or later anyway. He’s more sensitive now that he’s planning to return here on an official post, isn’t he?”

“You’re quick,” he clapped. “In return… I might need your help a little- not now, maybe later, but there is some digging I have to do and I’d like to keep it a secret- especially from Mr. Lee.”

“I hope it’s something that brings him down- then I can help you with that,” you smiled innocently and he chuckled at that. 

“You two really don’t get along, do you?” He shook his head. “So? Do we have a deal?”

“I have a few… conditions. You’ll refer to me as Madame and you will stay a respectable distance from me- especially when I’m ‘dealing’ with someone,” you began and he nodded. “The minute I learn that you’re betraying me in any way, you’re done for. I may not have a bodyguard but I have enough protection to save me from attempts like these.”

“Understood,” he shrugged- it wasn’t much you were asking for. 

“Then we have a deal. And make no mistake- I do not trust you. I still think you’re going to be reporting my every move to Mr. Lee. However, I won’t interfere in whatever you’ve come here to do… for now.” 

Jongho gaped at you as you got up and went for your room, dismissing him with a rather casual wave of hand. He sighed- just when he thought he had you. “You’re going to be so difficult to deal with.”

“I aim to please,” you said before shutting the door to your room and taking off your accessories, letting your hair loose before walking to the bath.

The bath had long gone cold.

—----------------------

Having Jongho as a bodyguard was proving to be… difficult, to put it simply. 

He wasn’t being a bother, not at all. He wanted eyes on you at all times when you were not in your room, and since you were mostly behind the counter or with the customers, all you needed to do was let Jongho go unnoticed as he seated himself in the corner on a chair with newspaper and an endless refill of coffee or tea- whatever he’d feel like. 

However, you did not like being watched even though it was necessary. It was just him making you aware of his presence time and time again that irked you. Stealing ‘casual’ glances whenever someone official he recognised entered, smirking when he’d catch you making a deal… a mere bodyguard should remain invisible to you. That’s what you told him in your evening break.

“Well, I’m not a ‘mere’ bodyguard, it seems,” Jongho shifted. “What exactly did I do?”

“You couldn’t have made it less obvious that you’re keeping an eye on me,” your face was emotionless so that anyone else watching wouldn’t catch on. “I get that it’s new for you but can you wipe that permanent smirk off your face whenever I’m dealing?”

Jongho laughed heartily at that. “Is that how it seemed? I’m pretty sure I had no such expressions on my face.”

“You don’t even realise it, do you?” You tsk-ed at him, fixing your midnight-blue sleeves before pointing at the left corner of your lip. “This gets lifted up like this, ever so slightly. It’s annoying.”

It lifted up again as a smirk creeped up his face. “Does it now? I’ll hide my face behind the newspaper then-”

“That’s worse,” you shook your head. “If you don’t improve by tonight I’m sending you back home, with a message to my dear old father that he can do better than this.”

“Go ahead,” Jongho, unfazed, went back to reading his newspaper that you were sure he had memorised by now. “I’m his best.”

“So arrogant,” you muttered, scanning him as you pondered your decision. “Just try to make it less obvious. We’ll deal with this later.”

Jongho, however, didn’t improve even slightly. You were just glad your customers weren’t noticing, and by the end of the night, you thought that perhaps, he did blend in. Since your staff was aware of him now and he could go inside and outside as he pleased, you supposed no outsider noticed him… for now.

And tonight, you needed to see just how good he was as a ‘bodyguard’. You were meeting with someone whose identity was better left hidden, though you were sure at least your father was aware of your dealings with the younger prince’s little gang of misfits. Even if he wasn’t, it was a little test for your bodyguard- if after this meeting, your father finds out whose side you are actually on, he would take swift action. 

Before every meeting, it was your strategy to think of every possible outcome and plan according to it. Tonight, you were meeting Park Seonghwa- Prince Hongjoong’s Right Hand, had he been allowed to have one officially. It was sad how the king and the elder prince had pushed the wiser one of their family out of the picture. What made you giddy with satisfaction, though, was that the younger prince was no fool at all. He was one of the smartest individuals you had ever had the chance to encounter, and you were sure he would one day take his position at the very throne he deserved to rule. Not his elder brother Prince Woobin, but him.

People suspected that you were in cohorts with the younger prince, but only to the extent that you provided him with the ‘gossip’. Thankfully, the reputation you had built for yourself preceded you. As it was a public fact that the younger prince had negligible power in the matter of the courts, no one cared. The only person who would care was your father, who had learned the hard way that everything you did had a purpose. 

“How am I supposed to protect you if I don’t even know who we’re meeting?” Jongho muttered, casually walking by your side even when you had instructed him to act like a bodyguard and stay a few steps behind you. 

“Who I meet is none of your concern, and you won’t be reporting this to Mr. Lee,” you gave him half a smile, observing your surroundings as the two of you walked through the very empty night streets. “We’re almost there- stay hidden while I talk. This man is not the threat tonight, so keep your eyes and ears open.”

With that, you stood at the corner of the street and tapped in a rhythmic beat thrice- a signal to him that you were not alone but safe. Out of the shadows, the tall figure of Seonghwa appeared, face masked and hidden further with the hat tilted all the way down. 

“One would think you’d walk right into a trap if all you can see in front of you is your goddamned hat,” you said and he let out a low chuckle as he slid his mask down and tilted his hat up. 

“My apologies, though I must ask who exactly that man is,” he pointed at Jongho who waved at him with a rather innocent smile.

“My ‘guard’, if you can believe that. Long story, perhaps for another time. How does the captain fare?”

The captain- what you called Prince Hongjoong in public. Seonghwa nodded, and that was enough of an answer. You continued, “My earlier suspicions were right. The Prince’s Right Hand is very loyal to the Prince, but now there’s another group we ought to worry about. The Minister of Defence is keeping tabs on everyone, and possibly you as well. Also, it is in discussion whether the new Minister of Foreign Affairs should be someone from Eden. I’m pretty sure Mr. Lee is on board for that position.”

Seonghwa raised his brow at that last piece of information. He knew Mr. Lee was your father, and the fact that you were telling him this… “And would Mr. Lee make a good minister?”

“If you wish to make Mist Island and Eden one again through bloody means, then yes. He would make a very good minister.”

“And how should we stop this from happening?”

“Find out who is actually behind this, and what Mr. Lee holds that grants him immunity as he tramples all over Mist Island.”

“On it.” Seonghwa tipped his hat and disappeared back into the shadows, and you clicked your fingers and resumed walking as if you had never stopped in the first place. 

“That was quick. Where are we going now?”

“To the place that I once called home,” you scoffed and Jongho raised his brows. 

Taking a few turns, you finally reached the house that you had grown up in. As you unlocked the main door and entered what was an average house, much like the other on the street, the damp smell and dust greeted you, making you take a step back. You would never get used to the house smelling like a memory long forgotten. Perhaps, you too were scared of opening the treasure box of memories and letting out the warmth of your mother’s arms. The house was not home after your mother left and never came back, presumed dead.

The truth was that you wished your mother was still out there somewhere, far away even, but safe. Alive. Living the life she wished she had, the one she always sketched in the bedtime stories she told you. 

“Looks like you haven’t been here in a long time,” Jongho’s voice brought you back from your reminiscing and you turned to look at him swat at a spiderweb. “Is this Mr. Lee’s residence?”

“He doesn’t use it much, but I assume he’ll be needing it soon- until and unless he arranges for something better. And me being the docile daughter, I thought I’d surprise him by letting him know that I was aware he would be arriving here,” you smirked, putting your hands on your hips as you surveyed the area. “Better get this place cleaned out tomorrow, don’t you think?”

Jongho looked confused- often, the lines of sarcasm and blunt truth were mixed with you. “Why don’t the two of you don’t get along, if I dare ask?”

“A number of reasons, each worse than the other,” you went for your father’s study, unlocking the room with the set of keys you had one of your men steal and make a copy of without his knowledge. “None that should entertain you much. Would you like to make a survey of your boss’ study? I’m sure you’ll find something of interest there.”

You didn’t miss how Jongho’s eyes flashed- so you were right. Jongho must be trying to look into Mr. Lee’s private life, which meant he must be trying to find out something about his close circle or whatever people he had been dealing with in the past. Jongho narrowed his eyes. “And what should I be looking for?”

“Whatever answers you were wishing you would find on this island. Perhaps you will find something if you’re lucky. I’ll be in the room upstairs when you’re done.”

With that, you left him in your father’s study- an act of faith in him so he could feel that you trusted him to some extent. You wanted him to loosen his guard so you could find out just what ‘answers’ he was desperate enough to look for- desperate enough to be a bodyguard for someone like you. You knew one thing about your father and it was that he wouldn’t force anyone to protect you, which meant Jongho had to have accepted rather willingly. Maybe to your father, that was an act of loyalty, but you suspected otherwise- and you had to, to remain safe.

You entered what had once been your room, now barely a fragment of who you used to be as a child. You did what you had to first- check the floor for that one odd sound and lifted that plank, taking out a box and unlocking it with the key only you and your mother possessed- no one else knew this box existed. It was a little secret communication device between you two while she was alive, and you hoped one day she would communicate with you through this as well. It has been almost a decade now since she went missing, but you used to come monthly here until you started coming less as you started losing hope (or hoping she wasn’t going to use this to communicate with you but another means). 

The letter you found was the same one you had left around six months ago. You replaced it with a new letter and shut the box back, making sure nothing seemed out of place before going to the window and looking out at the half moon. 

With every passing day, your suspicions that your own father had something to do with your mother not coming back without a word grew. Your hatred for your father grew along, especially when he morphed into an ambitious, selfish and wealth-greedy man. You just wished you’d get news if your mother was dead- even that would be a relief than not being aware what state she was in. at least you could mourn her then. 

Jongho hadn’t intended to sneak up the stairs but somehow, despite your good ears, you didn’t sense him with his hand raised to knock at the door- he paused, realising this was the first time in the past three days he saw you with your guard down. Candid. Your shoulders weren’t straight anymore, instead looked burdened. Your head was down with some worry that loomed over you, your mouth breathing sighs. Before you could turn, Jongho knocked on the door, startling you a bit.

“We can go now if you’re done,” he scanned you, feeling a little awkward.

“And? Did you find what you were looking for?” You asked as you followed him downstairs.

“Not exactly,” he sighed. “It’s going to be hard to find what would be a well-hidden secret if it exists in the first place, wouldn’t it?”

You paused- you hadn’t expected that. Jongho raised a brow and you smiled. “It looks like we’re in the same boat, even though our quests must be different.” He made a funny face at that and you locked the main door behind you as you exited. “Did you at least find something of interest?”

“Maybe I did.”The glint in his eyes confirmed that and you smiled in satisfaction. It looked like tonight wasn’t a waste afterall. 

—---------------------

Whether you would like to admit it or not, you were gradually getting used to the idea of having Jongho as your shadow. Especially when he was proving to be useful in several ways. As a bodyguard, he was doing an exceptional job. Since the relations between Mist Island and Eden were getting rockier with each passing day, making the citizens feel on edge, many of your customers who came to trade secrets with you tried to get aggressive. Earlier, you would handle the situation by either breaking a plate over their head or splashing whatever was in front of you on their face- whether it be hot tea or cool water. But now? As soon as someone so much as raised their voice over you, Jongho, who was preferring to seat himself as close to you as possible whenever you did your job, would casually start cleaning his gun or cracking his knuckles with a glare in their direction.

At first, you were pissed. You thought he was interfering, but when one of them ignored Jongho’s not-so-subtle warning and tried to twist your wrist when you annoyed him, Jongho ended up twisting the offender’s wrist so hard you were positive you heard the snap of bones. After that, word must have gotten out. Everyone who met with you was more careful.

Apart from his bodyguard duties, Jongho was also quite an entertainer, you were finding. He was good at making you smile, and your staff was the first to notice, since they could differentiate between your trademark smile and real smile. Jongho probably did not, and you were glad that was the case. You didn’t want him to think his dad jokes were funny- it could get in his head. Not that he would care- you found out it was his lifelong habit. But since Jongho was good at talking and also good at annoying people, you decided to teach him a trick or two about your job.

“We don’t know how long we are doing this,” you told him, fixing the collar of your periwinkle gown before you looked at him, peeking behind him to see that the customer/target was already seated in the hall. “So maybe you should join me. Maybe you could do some work in my stead when I ask you too.”

“I don’t know if I’ll be good at this though,” Jongho sighed, running a hand through his dark hair. “You’re an expert. I’ll make a fool of myself.”

“You won’t,” you insisted, almost glaring at him. “You already know too much, don’t you? When you have too much information, you need to let it out through different channels.”

“And what’s that channel today?” Jongho looked towards the hall where all sorts of people were present- nobles, soldiers, foreigners, gangsters. 

“It’s a test. You have to figure out who he is,” you winked at him and he groaned. You only fixed the collar of his black shirt, ignoring how he tensed under your touch, before beckoning him to follow you, seating yourselves in front of the middle aged man who wore such plain clothes that it was impossible to tell if he was a noble or a peasant. But peasants didn’t come here, and he didn’t look from a noble family, Jongho thought.

“I hope you’ve been well,” you said as you poured tea for him, sliding the tray of cookies as well and he thanked you awkwardly. “How’s your family?”

“The same, but the youngest almost caught a cold,” he replied and you raised your brows.

“I hope he’s okay now?”

“He’s still at the… hospital. Not here, though.”

“Is someone with him?” You continued pouring tea for Jongho who had a sympathetic look on his face as he listened to the man’s story.

“He’s all alone, we couldn’t join him. But we wish to, when the time is right, when the matters are solved,” the man sipped his tea, rubbing a hand over his hairy face as he sighed. “It’s hard to travel these days, and we don’t have enough money to pay the doctor.”

“And you came here for my help?” You asked and he nodded. You took a moment to think.

“Maybe I ought to look at my connections or acquaintances for a reference?” You asked.

“I was thinking about the Minister of Defence. He seems to be an acquaintance of the doctors there.”

“Ah,” you nodded, glancing at Jongho to see how he was following the cryptic conversation. “I’ll ask someone to give my message to him then. Maybe he could put in a good word with your doctor after all.”

“Thank you, Madame Lee,” the man got up and bowed and you followed. “Even if he doesn’t help… thank you.”

You only nodded, watching the man leave with another bow in your direction after which you slumped down, munching on a chocolate cookie as you went over your conversation again. You noticed Jongho staring at you and you cleared your throat. “Well? Who do you suppose he was?”

“I would say an acquaintance, but I have never seen him around Mr. Lee or you, for that matter,” he began. “He doesn’t look like he’s from a noble family, and he doesn’t look very rich either, and frankly, your hotel is expensive. What was he really doing here, huh?”

“What was he really doing here?” You repeated, stifling your smirk. 

“I’m just guessing you talked in code words. There’s no patient, no doctor,” he took another cookie as he waited for your response.

“You’re both wrong and right. There is, in fact, a patient, and a doctor, though not quite in the literal sense. He’s a spy, one of his men has been caught by the enemy, and he wants me to do something about it- like either make a deal or force the Minister of Defence to release him.”

“Ah…” Jongho nodded enthusiastically. “It makes sense. But… who’s the enemy here?”

“Who’s the enemy?” You asked him. “I thought by now, you would have realised there’s no such thing as a single enemy. There are several sides. Whichever you choose to stick with, the rest you call your enemy.”

“And which side is yours, Madame Lee?” He asked in a playful tone.

“Not the one Mr. Lee chooses,” you said with a grin and found him grinning back. “You know, something tells me you don’t like Mr. Lee much either.”

“Don’t get me wrong, that man practically raised me,” Jongho brushed his clothes, having finished snacking. “It’s just… he’s a bit difficult, and he keeps a lot of secrets. He’s cryptic. Even as one of his closest personnel, he’s kept me at quite a distance.”

“When do you think he’s arriving?” You remembered discussing with Jongho a few days ago about the possibility of your father arriving on the island quite soon. “It’s going to get noisy here.”

“Should I casually ask? Or would he know it’s not really me who’s asking?” He scoffed at the thought.

“I have my sources, and they say he’s begun packing,” you teased.

“Well then,” Jongho straightened. “If you’re on the side against your father, and you’re both getting involved politically… do you think he would ever hurt you?”

“Do you think he’s never hurt me?” You asked, failing to keep the edge from your tone. Jongho noticed that. With a sigh, you said, “He’ll do anything to get what he wants. He’ll trample on anyone. It doesn’t matter who that is. But Jongho… once he arrives, you’re either my bodyguard or his man. Would you be able to protect me if it’s my father who decides to hurt me?”

Jongho’s mouth fell open as he considered this possibility and you left for the reception counter, leaving him wondering just why he had agreed to become your bodyguard when you were your father’s worst enemy.

—--------------------

Your father came earlier than you expected, but that was both good and bad, although the bad seemed to be outweighing the good for now. 

The island had been in a frenzy for the past three days, ever since your father proudly marched to the island, making a clear and loud statement- that Eden was not fooling around. Arriving on ships that included battalions, the man marched with an army to his hometown, and to everyone’s surprise, he and his soldiers were welcomed by the palace.

However, that day, you had an appointment with Prince Hongjoong himself, and he had specifically instructed you to make a public entrance to the palace. You had dressed in your finest gown of deep ruby, your hair tied back in an elegant bun, a black hat that complemented your dress well on top of your head. The ruby necklace was the only jewellery you wore apart from its matching ring for such occasions. You had instructed Jongho to dress his finest as well, and you weren’t surprised when he arrived at your door in a three piece suit, his hair swept back, though your heart sank suspiciously.

However, he had to pause and take a good look at you, drinking in everything he could see. He couldn’t figure out just what it was about you that made you awfully attractive to him- perhaps the way you carried yourself, strong and unwavering. Or perhaps the playful smile you always had on your face, the teasing eyes-

Or maybe because he thought you were simply beautiful.

“Good,” you nodded, taking a deep breath. “You look good.”

“You look good,” he simply said. “Shall we?”

You took his arm that he offered and together, you rode in the carriage sent by Seonghwa. On the way, you briefed Jongho about the actual plan.

“We’re making a statement, dear old guard,” you took off your hat before you rested your head. “We go through the main gate, encounter my father- a total ‘coincidence’, exchange greetings- you exchange greetings, I’ll piss him off. And then, we walk to Prince Hongjoong’s chambers while they watch.”

“Wow, okay, could have let me know earlier,” Jongho mumbled. “Wait- I’m meeting Prince Hongjoong too?” 

When your smirk was the only response he got, he groaned loudly, shaking his head in what appeared to be mild annoyance and amusement. “What will I be doing there? I’m sure you don’t need a bodyguard in the Prince’s chambers unless you think he’s a threat.”

“Maybe I just wanted you to tag along,” you challenged and he raised his brow, making your heart lurch again. What was wrong with you? “You’re right, I don’t need a bodyguard today. If you don’t wish to tag along… you are free to go back. I won’t mind.”

Jongho thought for a moment before he shook his head. “I’d like to tag along, actually.”

The two of you shared a smile before you looked out of the window. Something about him today was different. Or maybe you were just feeling strange as you got to know the different sides of him. But you didn’t mind his presence at all now, and coming from you in such a short period of time, in mere weeks? That was new and a little insane, especially considering he might still be reporting other things to your father. 

It was a little suspicious that he actually wasn’t. Not so far anyway, since everything was calm. Or maybe this was the calm before the storm- maybe he was waiting to gain your trust fully before he would pull such a stunt. But you were also cautious- you only showed him what wouldn’t hurt you if it got out. And perhaps he knew that, perhaps he didn’t, but you couldn’t be more careful. As you thought about all of this, playing with your necklace, Jongho cleared his throat and you glanced at him.

“Should I… I don’t know, act surprised when I see Mr. Lee in the palace?”

You considered him for a moment. “You know… you don’t have to keep putting an act in front of him anymore.”

Jongho bit his lip- you were very quick and perhaps this was your instinct now. “I think I need to. For now.”

You made an impressed face. “If it would help you for now, go ahead. It’s up to you, really.”

“I don’t think he would like it very much if he learns we’re a team now,” Jongho was grinning guiltily.

You shifted, appearing interested. “Are we then? A team?”

“Aren’t we?” He challenged with a raise of his brow. 

“I don’t know,” you shrugged, a teasing glint in your eyes. “All you’ve done is help me so far. I haven’t really helped you back, have I?”

Maybe Jongho wasn’t expecting that, which was why he gaped at you. You waved a hand in dismissal. “If you need some help, I can give it to you for free, in return for all you’ve done.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” he promised and you reached the palace. Setting your hat back on your head, you exited the carriage, looking around at the vast expanse that led to the residence of the King, the cherry blossoms in full bloom bordering the path. You noticed Seonghwa, dressed in formal palace clothing, marching towards you and you passed him a subtle nod. Jongho narrowed his eyes.

“Is that…?”

“Shh,” you playfully put a finger on your lips. “What gave?”

“His arrogant walk?” Jongho suggested and you almost snorted as you turned back to Seonghwa, who bowed once. 

“Madame Lee. It’s been a while,” he said, looking at Jongho then, passing an acknowledging nod.

“Mr. Park,” you said. “I hope you’ve met with Mr. Lee?”

“He’ll be leaving Prince Woobin’s chambers in a moment. We might encounter him on our way to Prince Hongjoong’s chambers.”

“We better,” you whispered with a wink and Seonghwa nudged at you to follow him. You made Jongho walk beside you and as you took the turn to the direction of the princes chambers, you noticed a few men bowing as the exit the chamber, and noticed the man in the front-

Your father. You weren’t expecting the shudder that passed through you at the sight of that man who seemed to look the same ever since you were a teen- the same wrinkles on his face, the same arrogance around his mouth and eyes, the same stiffness in his shoulders. You continued walking, pausing only when your father met your eyes and almost dismissed you as a stranger until he saw another familiar face beside you and looked back at you.

And when he roared with laughter at the ‘coincidence’, you didn’t hide your wince at the annoying sound. “The person I last expected to see!” He shook his head, looking at his fellows. “You’d call it a coincidence, but I would call it fate.”

You smiled at that as you bowed to him, Jongho following suit as he greeted your father as well. “Have you been well?”

“In front of you, alive and healthy,” he boasted. “I hope you’re not giving my Jongho a hard time.”

“Should I not?” You glanced towards Jongho who wore no expression on his face. 

“Didn’t he tell you who he was?” Mr. Lee looked confused. 

“He just told me he was your ‘best’,” you rolled your eyes and he chuckled at that and Jongho finally gave in, groaning.

“He wasn’t wrong,” Mr. Lee nodded at Jongho. “I guess you don’t remember the Choi family. After all, you were too young when they passed away, unfortunately.”

You glanced at Jongho again and noticed that he was clearly not comfortable with your father mentioning the incident. “I’m not sure I remember, yes. Anyways, I must leave now- I have an appointment with the Prince here. Don’t expect me to catch up with you later, and I’d prefer if you stay away from my business, unless you have news worthy of my attention.”

Without hearing his answer, you nudged Seonghwa to lead the way again, and the sound of your father laughing sarcastically gradually faded. You entered the chambers and then the office, where the Prince sat behind his desk in a fancy hanbok.

With a deep bow and greetings exchanged, the four of you sat casually and the Prince served tea as he inquired of your health and business. 

“And who is this acquaintance of yours?”

“Choi Jongho,” Jongho answered, “I work for Madame Lee.”

“Do you?” the Prince asked and you and Seonghwa looked at each other in amusement. “I heard he worked for Mr. Lee. And anyone who works for Mr. Lee… I don’t think I’d like to interact with them very much.”

Jongho looked at you, confused before the Prince laughed, shaking his head, his dark hair messy. “I only jest, relax. I didn’t lie though.”

Jongho did relax then. “It’s true, I worked for Mr. Lee before I came here to work for Madame Lee. I’m not sure where I stand right now.”

“And do you trust him?” Prince Hongjoong looked at you.

“Respectfully, I trust nobody- not even you, Your Highness,” you gave him a subtle bow of apology and Seonghwa and the Prince both shared a grin at that. “You can’t ask me if I trust him.”

“Fair enough. Shall we get to business?”

You nodded and Seonghwa cleared his throat. “Mr. Lee just met with Prince Woobin- since he’s making clear whose side he is on, I think we don’t need to hide anymore. It’s going to get bloody here pretty soon anyway. And now Mr. Lee must know whose side you are on, Madame Lee.”

“It’s necessary that he knows,” you nodded and the Prince agreed. “And when he stays on his toes, that’s when it’s the easiest to catch him in my trap. You see… My father has a habit of being a bit too careful. I intend to exploit that weakness of his.”

“Would you like to give him a heads-up that you’re catching on?” The Prince rested his head on his hand, elbow propped lazily on the table. “I don’t think he’s the type of person to stop after becoming the Minister of Foreign Affairs, which he surely will- he just secured his position with Prince Woobin.”

“You’re right about that,” you nodded. “He’s after something- I’m not sure what yet, but something that will give him a reason to annex Mist Island- Eden’s prince is funding this operation, I’m sure.”

“Something that will be big enough to provide a reason…” Seonghwa pondered. “Whatever it is, who could possess such a thing? Prince Woobin would never keep it in his residence.”

“Anyone the Prince trusts?”

“Maybe you should look out of the picture too,” Jongho said and everyone turned to look at him. He shrugged. “Isn’t the Minister of Defence very suspicious too? He’s keeping tabs on you all, he must have a reason to do so other than simply being too interested in your lives.”

You nodded, feeling a little proud for a moment. “He’s right. I think we should start there- he’s been out catching your spies too, Seonghwa.”

“I took care of that,” he assured and Jongho sighed in realisation. “What do you think we’re looking for here? Physical evidence of some illegal movement occuring in the court?”

“That’s our best bet,” you nodded. 

“Thanks for making time today. We’ll let you know how to proceed forward- keep your eyes and ears open… both of you,” the Prince looked at Jongho and he nodded.

As Seonghwa accompanied you both to the palace gates, you paused before you could exit. “Have you heard any news about my mother?”

“Not yet,” Seonghwa shook his head in disappointment. “I can’t seem to find a lead, and that’s more suspicious.”

You nodded, thanking him. The carriage ride back to the hotel was rather quiet as the two of you sorted your thoughts out. However, that night, after you clocked out, a knock sounded on your door and you found none other than Jongho at your doorstep. You let him in and resumed cleaning your swords. “What’s keeping you up tonight?”

“Many things,” Jongho admitted. “But first of all, why are you obsessed with your swords?”

“Maybe I just like the idea of a neat and clean blade slicing through someone’s throat?” You suggested.

“I still can’t wrap my head around the fact that you actually know how to use them,” Jongho snorted. “I thought you were a spoiled brat who only cared about her business and how she looked.”

“You weren’t wrong, but has your presumption about me changed yet?” You scoffed.

“I now think that you are a spoiled brat who only cares about her business and how she looks- and her swords.”

You couldn’t help but laugh at that, and Jongho felt pleased- that was the first time he heard you genuinely laugh. “You can’t blame me for being obsessed with these beauties.”

“Anyways… What should I tell your father about today’s meeting if he asks? Because I’m sure I’ll get cornered by one of his men pretty soon.”

“What would you say?” You asked, waiting for his response and he nervously fidgeted.

“That you’re obviously on Prince Hongjoong’s side, and are planning to find out why he wants to become the Minister of Foreign Affairs, but you have no idea what to look for?”

“You’re getting good at this,” you smirked. “My influence is clearly rubbing off on you, I see.”

“Bound to happen when I’m with you basically all hours of the day,” Jongho rolled his eyes.

You finished cleaning the last sword and started packing them in their cases. “Do you think I’m doing the right thing, Jongho?”

“I… actually don’t really know what exactly you are doing,” Jongho sighed. “You seem to be doing the right thing but there’s a lot of mystery still surrounding you, and honestly I cannot make a judgement right now.”

You nodded, finally meeting eyes with him. “Why did my father raise you?”

Jongho pursed his lips. “My father was apparently close to your father.”

“When did they pass away?” You asked.

“I don’t recall many moments of them… I think I was four,” Jongho answered. 

“But why would my father raise you?” You tilted your head. “He couldn’t even raise me right. He’s no philanthropist.”

“I don’t know,” Jongho was being honest, and you heard what he didn’t say out loud- I intend to find out. “Where is your mother?”

“I don’t know,” you replied, and Jongho could hear the honesty in that statement too. “I don’t even know if she’s alive or dead. Last I saw of her was when she left for Eden almost a decade ago.”

“Was that before or after your father had his shoulder surgery?” Jongho asked and you frowned. “Because she was there before that, in the house. I was there too. I heard that she left for Mist Island- I remember because your father said he wished his wife was there to take care of him when he was ill.”

You felt blood rush to your head- why did your father conceal this fact for you? All the decades spent sending people to find your mother in Eden, when she was supposed to be right here? Jongho noticed your clenched jaw and paling face. “Did you… think she was in Eden?”

“Are you sure?” Your voice was steel and gaze fiery. When Jongho nodded, you took a deep breath. 

What other secrets about your mother was your father keeping from you? How would you confront him about this- or rather, would you ever?

“Thank you for telling me that, Jongho,” your voice was still the same- unwavering. “You can leave now- it’s late.”

Jongho nodded, getting up and about to go to the food but then he paused. “If you want… I could help you look for your mother-”

“You will do no such thing,” you almost spat it out and Jongho frowned. “Did my father order you to tell me that?”

Jongho scanned you in confusion for a moment and then scoffed loudly. “I can’t believe this. I just thought I could help and you think it’s not me but your father speaking? I’m disappointed in you… y/n.”

You bit the inside of your cheek as the two of you glared at each other. “How can I trust you when I don’t even know who you are?”

“I don’t know who you are either,” Jongho challenged. “Yet here I am, betraying my boss for you. I should have thought twice,” he said and left the room, leaving your cheeks burning with shame at what you had actually done.

You supposed Jongho was right- he was actively betraying the man who had raised him for you. Maybe more because of whatever he had come here to find but perhaps because one day, he could use your help too. And what had you given him in return? Disappointment. 

You decided to reconsider whether you really needed Jongho as a bodyguard… or as a person you could keep close and confide in. A partner. 

It didn’t sound so bad. 

—---------------------

You found out Jongho could be pretty sulky too when he got angry with someone- or maybe with you, he was being dramatic. 

As you went to sit at the counter with Sakura, you noticed Jongho was already having tea in his usual spot while he read the newspaper. He only glanced at you once and didn’t meet eyes with you for the rest of the day. You were a bit amused, if you had to admit. Of course, you were going to apologise- you had been in the wrong- but you wanted to see the lengths to which Jongho could go consumed with his anger.

And the fact that he was usually somewhat rational, or maybe unaffected, by whatever you did? Or whatever stunt anyone else pulled, for that matter? You didn’t know whether to be worried or be amused, so you were feeling both. And the fact that you were worried was something you didn’t want to think about right now. 

You weren’t expecting any special guests at your hotel today- usually, whoever wanted to trade secrets sent a message in advance unless it was urgent. But the last thing you were expecting were a bunch of soldiers from Eden advancing into your hotel like they owned the damned place. They looked around as if expecting to see someone suspicious but upon finding no one and having alarmed everyone present, they settled at the bar corner. You sighed- you feared they might get drunk and create a mess. Soldiers from Eden generally had no morals- especially when it came to Mist Island.

Jongho also noticed how arrogant those men were but they recognised Jongho and the man who seemed to be their leader- a rather young soldier with an eyebrow slit- greeted Jongho with a bow and perhaps, asked what he was doing here. You couldn’t hear them but you saw Jongho dismiss him with a polite smile- he probably told him to mind his own business.

“Make sure they don’t create a scene,” you told Sakura and she nodded, pushing her glasses up her nose bridge before she went to whisper the orders to the rest of the staff. You had to take a little break to freshen up.

But while you were gone and the men had a few drinks, it got louder. By the time you returned, you noticed how most of the customers were annoyed and were trying to leave without attracting attention. You groaned, making a mental note to ask your father to keep his minions under control, but then you heard one of the men bark some orders to none other than Sakura who was passing by.

“Hey, you with the glasses! Where are my drinks? Why is your service so damned slow?”

“I apologise,” Sakura bowed. “I’ll check what’s taking so long.”

With a desperate glance at you, she went towards the kitchen and you met eyes with Jongho, noticing even he was annoyed. Still at the counter, you watched one of the maids set the tray on their table while they snickered and whispered things- probably commenting on her and trying to rile her up. Thankfully, she was a patient one, and after doing her job, she was about to leave when the supposed leader asked her where the woman with glasses was.

You watched Sakura frown as she made her way to the men and he started complaining about how she should have done better. You’d had enough- you started making your way towards the group but a loud shatter of glass breaking made everyone, including you, gasp.

“Why are you being like this?” The man was smirking devilishly as he grabbed Sakura’s wrist- the glass having fallen from the table as a result of her struggle. Before Jongho could get up, you raised a hand, indicating to him that you would handle it. Without waiting for his answer, you walked to the group and locked eyes with the leader.

“Is there a problem here?”

The man scanned you rather slowly with a smirk plastered on his face. “And who might you be?”

“The owner of this hotel. If you have a problem, you better discuss with me.”

“You? The owner?” The man scoffed and looked at his gang and everyone started roaring with laughter as if you had made a joke. “I guess you’re better than this one here. I was just looking for someone to… entertain us.”

One of the men on your left tried to grab your wrist. With your right hand, you snatched a plate from the table and smacked it across his head, shattering it in the process, and with your left hand, you produced a dagger from your pocket and swiped it across the leader’s hand that had been holding Sakura’s wrist. They roared with pain while you pointed the dagger at the leader’s neck, Sakura hiding behind you. Still, the leader managed to slice your arm with a table knife but you didn’t let the burning pain take over you, instead, you almost tried snatching the knife from his hand when Jongho interrupted and pointed the gun at the man’s head.

“Are you all fools, parading into the hotel of Mr. Lee’s daughter, creating a scene and hurting her?” Jongho roared with anger at the soldiers and saw the colour drain from their face when they made the connection- Jongho worked for Mr. Lee after all. The leader scoffed in disbelief, earning a smack from Jongho across his face. “Wait till Mr. Lee hears about this- I’ll make sure none of you can ever step foot on this island.”

“We didn’t know!” One of the men yelled at him. You glared at him.

“You’re a guest on this land, sir. You should have acted like one.”

“Get lost before I lose it,” Jongho told them and they all grabbed their things before skittering away, glaring at Jongho this time instead of you. You rolled your eyes, turning to Sakura.

“Are you alright?”

“I’m sorry, Madame,” she bowed her head in shame. “I should have done better. I should have cooperated-”

“I didn’t train you to be weak. I trained you to stand up to whoever dares to oppress you. You should have done what I did- that’s my only disappointment from you,” you smiled at her, touching her face. “You did well.”

Sakura smiled warmly. “Let me clean this mess up, at least.”

You chuckled at that. “You do that.”

Jongho heard that conversation and sighed internally- he hadn’t expected you to be so stupidly brave. “You know… the situation could have been handled in many other ways.”

“Ah, yes,” you turned to him. “I could have slit his throat. I didn’t. Kind of regretting it right now.”

Jongho shook his head. “You should have let me handle it. I’m your bodyguard, and yet… you took the lead. And now you’re hurt,” he pointed at the bleeding arm, the blood trickling down your hand.

“I’ll take care of it- it’s no big deal-”

“Let me,” he said with a tone of finality and didn’t wait for your response as he made his way upstairs, pausing to make sure you were following. The two of you entered your room and he asked you where your first aid kit was.

“I can take care of it,” you said as he brought the kit to the table, making you sit at a chair and he dragged his chair in front of you. You tried rolling your sleeve, flinching- your favourite plum gown was beyond repair as blood had spread all over.

“Just shut up and let me do something,” he fiddled with the kit and you gaped at him.

“Dropping all formalities, are we?” You scoffed. You didn’t get an answer in return- he dipped cotton into alcohol and glanced at you once before rolling your sleeve upwards gently, examining the cut. You pouted- it wouldn’t need stitches but it was deeper than you thought.

Jongho cleaned your wound patiently, rubbed an ointment with a swab and even covered it in gauze and bandaged your arm neatly. After he was done, he was still holding your hand in his and he sighed. “I wish you hadn’t done anything and let me handle it.”

His voice was low and barely a whisper. You frowned, trying to figure out how to respond. “I… handled it alright, didn’t I?”

“You could have been more hurt,” he insisted, finally looking at you. “How many times have you encountered people like these? Do you realise what you do is so dangerous as well? How could you not have someone to protect you before I came?”

“I can protect myself,” you insisted. “I really can. I have, all my life. Now is no different.”

“Do you have to be so stubborn?” Jongho sighed. “Let’s forget about the past, but today… You should have let me handle it.”

You shrugged, aware of how he was still holding your hand- so unlike him. “I know- I just… old habits, I guess. And you weren’t in the best mood either, so…”

“You really think I would have let you get hurt just because we had an argument?” Jongho gaped at you.

“Well… that would have made you a lousy bodyguard then.”

Jongho smiled at that and you wondered why it relaxed you so much- that the tension in his shoulders was gone. “Does it hurt too much?”

“Uh,” you took your hand from him, bending it at different angles. “I’ll take something for the pain.”

Jongho relaxed back, watching you. You stared back, mustering your courage before you took a deep breath. “I’msorryforlastnightIwasrude.”

“What was that?” Jongho scoffed loud enough to annoy you.

“I said,” you enunciated each word perfectly this time. “I’m sorry for last night. I said some things and made some assumptions I shouldn’t have. I know it was wrong of me to do so.”

“That’s okay,” he replied. “I should have… I shouldn’t have suggested helping you. I’m only your bodyguard.”

“No,” you shook your head at that. “You’re much more than that. I took you for granted, it’s just… you have to understand how it is with my father. He’ll do anything to ruin me, which has made it so hard for me to trust anyone. To trust you. I’m trying to, but honestly, you haven’t given me anything.”

“I realise that,” Jongho nodded. “I also understand where you’re coming from. I trusted Mr. Lee for my whole life until I heard something I shouldn’t have and when the opportunity to come here arose, I had to take it. And I might need your help too.”

“Well,” you smiled at that. “I guess we can both help each other.”

“I guess,” he smiled back before sighing. “I don’t remember my parents much. I think you don’t either- our families were close, though. I have a picture- perhaps you recognise them,” he said and fished in his pocket for his wallet, where he had a picture of his parents with Mr. Lee. You nodded.

“I’ve heard my father talk about them when he reminisces about the old times.”

Jongho nodded. “This isn’t public information, but my parents were spies for the King. He used them to obtain information on Eden and other nations. I don’t know what the nature of their job was exactly, but from what Mr. Lee had told me they passed away during a mission- my father was caught by soldiers from Eden and my mother escaped with me. She handed me to your mother before going back for my father- the two never returned, and they were found dead a few days later.”

“That’s… unfortunate,” you frowned. “How old were you?”

“Four,” he said, leaning forward. “Which is why I don’t remember much. But a few years ago, I accidentally heard him talk to one of his closest men- a spy as well. I heard him asking whether he really had taken care of all the people who had witnessed my parents' death. That’s… suspicious, isn’t it?”

“It is,” you admitted. “Do you think he’s hiding something from you regarding the incident?”

“It’s just the way he talked… it felt like he, too, had witnessed it. And if he really has… that means he lied to me. What would he lie for? Were my parents traitors to their homeland, Mist Island? Did they really die because they got caught during a mission? It doesn’t make sense anymore, and I came here, hoping I’d find some answers without Mr. Lee’s knowledge.”

“I think your best bet is asking Mr. Lee himself or the person he talked to,” you pointed out. “My father doesn’t really keep physical evidence of things he’d like to hide.”

“That’s true,” he nodded slowly. “The man he talked to- he’s Mr. Ahn. You know him, right?”

“Mr. Ahn?” You frowned. “He’s his secretary, but… do you know what his real job is?”

“I don’t?” Jongho frowned in confusion as well.

“He’s an assassin. The best of the best. There’s a reason my father is still alive after all he dares to do,” you told him and Jongho groaned in disbelief. “Also… what happened after you were given to my mother? I don’t remember seeing you- I do have faint memories of playing with a kid that could have been you.”

“When your mother came the last time I saw her in Eden, she told me something. She said she wished she could have raised me. She also told me not to trust Mr. Lee and that everything that I thought was the truth was not. She told me I was being used- and then Mr. Lee interrupted and I never got to ask her what exactly she meant. I thought that wasn’t something new- all of us know we’re being used by Mr. Lee one way or another. We know not to trust him with our life. But the way she phrased it… I could never get it out of my head, though it started making sense later when I heard Mr. Lee’s conversation with Mr. Ahn.”

You let that sink in. “Did my father take you with him when he left for Eden? When you were… around six?”

“Yeah,” Jongho nodded. “I was raised in his house.”

“I’m still wondering why he would bother with you- he’s not the type to raise his friend’s kid out of love. If not out of love, perhaps out of guilt? But that man rarely ever feels guilt, so… I don’t know. Maybe he wanted to make a loyal servant out of you.”

Jongho laughed at that. “I was, in fact, that, until a few years ago when I overheard that conversation. I thought I misinterpreted that but then your mother said some things, and I was lost.”

“Well, I hope you can find your answers,” you said. “I’ll look back at the house again- there must be something rather than nothing there, if you found that picture as well.”

“Thank you,” Jongho looked at you. “Why do you think your mother disappeared out of the blue? Do you really think she did?”

“She started to hate my father with an intensity that was unimaginable. She never told me why. But… I don’t think she would have left me alone if she ran away from my father. He says she might have died in Eden since Eden wasn’t in the best shape at that time- a lot of women met unfortunate fates. But you say she left for Mist Island, which changes everything as well. The fact that he keeps insisting that she’s dead…”

“Well, I guess we can establish that Mr. Lee is a liar and we can’t believe a word that comes out from his mouth,” Jongho said.

“True,” you nodded. “I still have my sources looking for her in Eden, and now here too. Keeping an eye and ear out for any news, any sighting of her. I’ve found nothing all these years. I just want to know if she’s alive.”

“What should we do?”

“We plan,” you smirked. “He will become a minister soon- we can’t stop that. But once we find something that shows evidence of his corruption, it’ll be more satisfying when he has to step down. We become aggressive with that approach so he focuses only on that while we look into the past in hopes that we find our answers. Are you in?”

“I am,” he nodded- the plan made sense. “So we really are a team now, huh? Am I still your bodyguard?”

“If you love protecting me so much,” you said and he laughed at that, making you smile as well. You liked the way his eyes curved and his lips stretched into a wide smile. “I’d prefer the term partners, but that’s only for our ears.”

“I like that,” he was looking at you with a gaze that made you uneasy. “I’d also like it if we don’t hide from each other as we find those answers.”

“You’re very cryptic,” you commented. He only smiled at that, taking your hurt hand again and caressing it once before looking at you and almost smirking before he pulled you closer, making your eyes go wide in surprise.

“I’m not protecting you because of Mr. Lee anymore. I hope you realise that,” his voice was barely a whisper and your heart swooped at that. Before you could say or do anything, he hesitated before he brought his other hand to your face and touched it once, ever so lightly, before drawing back and leaving the room.

Leaving you in a flurry of unrecognisable emotions as you sat in the remnants of his touch.

—-------------------

As soon as your father was appointed the Minister of Foreign Affairs, it seemed like all hell broke loose. The uproar in the palace as the subjects of the king expressed their disappointment in the decision could be heard for miles. The citizens started protesting especially when the soldiers from Eden started terrorising the locals, which led to innocent spilling of blood and unfair punishments- it was obvious even to a fool that the locals were at a disadvantage and were being treated unfairly.

However, your father continued to parade shamelessly through town, head arrogantly high and that permanent smug across his face. You had just been gazing out of the window, admiring the clear sky after a spell of cloudy days, when you spotted the person you least wanted to see and groaned audibly, making Jongho, who was sitting across you reading a book, look up at you, laughing to himself when he saw your incredibly annoyed face.

“I’m guessing Mr. Lee is making his way here,” he went back to reading his book.

You folded your arms as you glared at him. “I didn’t think you were actually serious when you said he would come visit any day now.”

“It was about time anyway,” Jongho flipped a page. “He’s really the kind to boast about his achievements, and you being on the side that’s against him… he’s going to rub it in your face. I suppose I’ll enjoy the sight-”

He blocked the spoon you threw at him with his book, chuckling. Before you could pick something else to attack him with, the ominous bell of the hotel door rang and you heard a good amount of people entering. With a glare at Jongho’s direction, you made your way to the reception.

“I don’t believe you have a reservation,” you said coolly, not bothering with greetings. “We’re quite full today, so-”

“Hotel Crescent,” your father looked around, pausing when he spotted Jongho who was pretending he was too busy to notice what the ruckus was about. “Business must be booming these days.”

“More foreigners than locals is not a good sign,” you raised your brow at him. He looked back at his gang of five- all from Eden- and laughed. 

“Good thing I’m a local then!”

“Are you?” You scoffed. “You haven’t called Mist Island your home in more than two decades.”

“Well,” Mr. Lee ignored that. “Can we have some coffee then? I’m here to discuss business with you, Madame. Let’s keep it professional, shall we?”

You motioned at Sakura to lead the guests to the empty table, but your father made his way to Jongho who finally looked up and pretended to be pleasantly surprised as he got up and bowed. As they seated, you watched your father have what looked like a serious conversation with Jongho. He was probably interrogating him and hearing what Jongho had to report. You made your way to that table after a few minutes, seating yourself before folding your arms and glaring pointedly at your father.

“I take it you’re getting along with Jongho here,” he smirked.

“Quite well, actually,” you narrowed your eyes at him. “Let’s talk business.”

Your father took a deep breath before shifting a bit in his seat to turn towards you. “I’ve heard you trade a secret for a secret. Any kind.”

“That’s true, but I measure the worth of your secret before I give something back,” you said.

“Well, I have something for you-”

“And with people like you,” you continued, “I don’t really believe a word that comes out of your mouth, so don’t expect me to give you something back.”

He chuckled loudly at that, shaking his head and looking at Jongho as if they could share that sentiment. Jongho, to your relief, didn’t respond. Mr. Lee shook his head. “How about this? You give me a secret about your dear Prince Hongjoong, and I’ll give you something you can’t resist.”

“First of all, I don’t have a very personal relationship with Prince Hongjoong,” you began. “I could have been working for Prince Woobin had he not resorted to ugly means instead of asking first like any respectable man should. Secondly… no thanks.”

“Ah, I’ll let Prince Woobin know that,” your father said as if he was quite friendly with the prince. “He thinks we lost what could have been a wonderful ally in this… game we’re playing.”

You narrowed your eyes at him. “I don’t think he thinks that. He has people everywhere. He doesn’t need me.”

“And yet…” he locked eyes with you. “He fears Prince Hongjoong is growing stronger with each passing day, and he only has his own little group of spies and… you.”

You didn’t hide your smirk. “What do you have to offer?”

“I could tell you about your mother,” your father said and your heart sank. “I hear you’re looking for her in Mist Island too now. I could help you look for her.”

“What makes you think I need your help now, after all this time?” You replied, not letting him detect the agitation in your tone. “I’ll manage on my own, thank you very much.”

“I could tell you whether she is alive or dead, whether she’s here or in Eden or in another country as well. Are you sure you don’t want this?”

Unconsciously, you glanced at Jongho who was already looking at you. Somehow, his gaze alone made you gather your nerves of steel back and you looked back at your father. “If you don’t have anything better to offer me, then we’re done.”

You saw your father’s jaw clench and you smiled in satisfaction. If he had offered you the same thing a few years ago, you would have given him anything he wanted. You were not that person anymore. With a sigh, he got up and his men followed. He looked pointedly at you. “You’ll regret this.”

“Will I, now?” You scoffed, getting up and standing in front of him. “You’ll regret stepping foot back at Mist Island soon, Mr. Lee. Brace yourself.”

Your father left with disdain in his eyes and you waited until he was gone before you practically rushed upstairs to your room, shutting the door behind you as you began to process everything.

Your father knows where your mother is. He even knows if she’s alive or dead. He just didn’t bother letting you know, all these years. Why? Was there a reason behind it or was he just a sadistic bastard who loved seeing you suffer?

A knock sounded on your door and you heard Jongho call your name. “Can you let me in?”

“Now’s not a good time,” you hesitated before you replied, hoping your voice wouldn’t crack.

“All the more reason to let me in,” he said. You contemplated for a moment before wiping your eyes and opening the door for him, not looking at him as you went to stand near the window. 

“Are you… okay? I know it’s a stupid question but… talk to me instead of keeping it in. I can see that it’s killing you.”

For a moment, you wanted to ask Jongho who he thought he was to make assumptions like these (even if he was right). You wanted to fire him for crossing the formal boundary between you two- even though you two had established that he was not working under anybody now. You wanted to tell him to go back to being Mr. Lee’s loyal servant. But as you glanced at Jongho… you realised he was pretty much in the same position as you- it looked like your father knew what really happened to his parents as well, and he couldn’t ask him. And he wasn’t just your bodyguard anymore- you two were way past that. From eating your meals together, plotting schemes, trading secrets- you were partners now. 

“It’s funny, Jongho,” you sighed. “If he had made this offer a while ago, I would have accepted. It’s making me wonder where I stand now. I never pledged my loyalty to Mist Island and to Prince Hongjoong. I’m still searching for my mother. Yet here I am, protecting him and his land, throwing away the chance to end this quest once and for all.”

“You made the right decision,” he insisted. “At least about not letting your father hold that power over you. And I can see why you like Prince Hongjoong- he’s helping you look for your mother even in the midst of all this, even when you never asked.”

Your heart swelled- Jongho understood. “Does it make me a bad daughter, Jongho?”

“It doesn’t,” he moved from the fireplace and walked towards you, standing by your side as you both gazed at the sun setting over the busy streets of the town. “You’ve never stopped looking for her- you’re doing everything in your power. How could you think it makes you a bad daughter?”

“I’m just… tired of looking,” you sighed, putting a hand over your quivering lips. “It’s been years and it’s like she never existed. She disappeared without a trace. Did she abandon me on purpose? I keep thinking that, and then I remember how she promised me that she would never, and then I think I’m a bad person for thinking that-”

“Hey,” Jongho watched you hide your face away from him as your shoulders shook. Hesitantly, he put a hand on your shoulder, caressing it. “It’s okay to have these thoughts. But you know what? You won today. You don’t need that man to help you. You have so many people with you- Prince Hongjoong and Seonghwa have been helping you all this time because they care, because you help them in return. I am helping you- because I care about you too.”

“I just don’t know what to do anymore, why I’m doing this anymore,” you stopped crying, wiping your eyes. “Why am I running this business, putting myself in danger, when I could have lived a quiet life? Why am I doing all this?”

Jongho turned you towards him and he put his hands on your arms, rubbing them as he locked eyes with you and smiled. “You know… I thought you were some spoiled person with too much money and power but you’ve surprised me everyday. You’re nothing like your father. You trade secrets, manipulate, but I’ve never seen it bring harm to the place you live in. Whether unconsciously or consciously, you’ve been helping Mist Island itself- not the king, not the princes, but the land, your home. My home,” he tucked some stray hair behind your ear and your breath caught as he wiped a tear from your eye as well, proceeding to cup your face. “You’re so brave for doing that. Braver than any soldier. And you never gave up on your mother- that makes you the strongest person I know. And I know you’re looking into my parents, even when I never asked for it. You’re loyal to those who you choose, and I’m glad you chose me. I’m right about the last part, aren’t I? Or am I delusional?”

You laughed at that, nodding. “I think I am, unless I learn you’re still working for my father in which case, I’ll kill you in your sleep-”

Jongho shook his head as he put a finger on your lips to shut you up and your heart lurched- the air felt so thick right now, especially with his gaze on your lips. “I do think I should do something about this mouth of yours.”

He looked in your eyes and it was as if he finally realised the position you two were in- mere inches away, his hand on your face and the other on your lips. He cleared his throat as he put his hands back to your arms and you couldn’t believe that you felt anything but relief at that. You wanted his hands back-

“You can lean on me, y/n,” his voice was low. “Let’s not lean on anybody else but each other, shall we?”

You didn’t need to contemplate that anymore. As your answer, you stepped forward and put your head against his chest, almost at the crook of his neck. You felt Jongho tense and for a moment, you feared he never meant for any of this to happen, but then he wrapped his arms around you and you felt… strange, almost like you were safe. You had never felt safe in anyone’s arms before. You could feel the warmth and strength in his arms as he hugged you and you let your hands hold his jacket as you stayed like this for a few moments before you muttered a thank you.

“You don’t need to thank me,” he broke the hug and patted your cheek once. “I’ll be downstairs- you shouldn’t keep your business waiting for too long.”

You smiled at that and watched him leave, putting your hands on your cheeks in disbelief and finding them warm. What was happening?

—-------------------

A few days later, you found yourself back at the palace- but this time, in the middle of the night. You spotted Jongho trying to fight his yawn as the two of you waited for the prince to arrive and you scoffed.

“Just yawn, big and large, and get it over with,” you told him and he sighed, grinning. You didn’t realise you were grinning back until he paused and looked at you.

“What?” He asked.

“You have a… cute smile.”

You immediately realised a few things- Jongho never expected to hear something like this from you, you never expected to say something like this to anyone for that matter, and the fact that you actually thought about this-

“It’s the lack of sleep talking, isn’t it?” He laughed this time, all gummy smiles and curved eyes and you resisted the urge to pinch the cheek of the man who was sitting in front of you. In the royal chambers. You ought to get a grip-

“Yes, but it’s also the truth,” you tilted your head as you watched him in a teasing manner. “Has nobody ever told you that?”

“Okay, stop flirting with me,” Jongho clapped as he straightened. “The prince will be arriving any second now.”

“But he’s not here right now,” you teased and Jongho scoffed at you and shook his head in disbelief.

“I’ll let the Prince know he ought to think twice before disturbing your sleeping schedule because clearly it’s messing with your brain- it’s like you’re a whole new person when you’re sleepy-”

“Or maybe I’m just too wide awake for my own good-”

“What’s happening? I wanna join- it looks like something interesting is going on,” Hongjoong arrived with Seonghwa right behind and the two of you got up, stifling your giggles- giggles- as you bowed. 

You really should have taken a nap today.

“Nothing, Prince Hongjoong,” you smiled sweetly at him and he pouted.

“You’re no fun,” the prince shook his head and Seonghwa scoffed.

“You’re one to say,” he muttered as he sat and Prince Hongjoong looked pointedly at him.

“This lad is practically asking for an execution order now,” he pointed at Seonghwa who dramatically bowed in apology. “Anyways, I have information that I need to share urgently. I know what exactly it is that Woobin has been trying so hard to hide. It’s a ledger which proves that the King and Prince Woobin have been illegally depositing funds to… make a guess where exactly.”

“Eden?” You shrugged, “But then… I think there’s a third nation involved?”

“Utopia is funding Eden’s mission to annex Mist Island- it’s nothing new if we think about it. Eden’s government has always been somewhat controlled by Utopia. Eden’s prince is one fool if he thinks Utopia will just sit and watch as Mist Island and Eden become one- they’ll take over Eden right after. I don’t know what they’re blinded by, but clearly a large amount of black money makes do.”

“So the physical copy is here?” You asked and they nodded. “And it gives proof of your brother and father’s involvement?”

“Sadly, yes,” Prince Hongjoong confirmed and you scoffed in disbelief. “As well as your father’s involvement.”

“Of course,” you nodded. “How do you want to proceed?”

“We were thinking,” Seonghwa began, “We obtain the ledgers and either resort to blackmailing or make it public.”

“Wouldn’t blackmailing put your life at more risk?” Jongho pointed out. “They won’t just sit back and let you control them even if you could make the ledgers public.”

“To hold the King and Prince accountable and stop this madness, I need more power- not just the empty title of Prince by my name,” Hongjoong said. “And there’s one way the King would have to renounce the throne- if the senior scholars in the palace, all eight of them agree that the King is not fit to rule anymore. Prince Woobin’s involvement will automatically make him unfit as well, which would leave me.”

“How do you plan to convince the scholars?” You asked. “They’d believe you right away but that doesn’t mean they would agree to stand against the King himself.”

“Have you ever kept… something from all of your years in this business, all of our years working together? Something we could use now? It’s okay if you don’t want to lend us if you have something,” Seonghwa glanced at Prince Hongjoong who nodded. “But I think it’ll be helpful if we have a detailed list or something like that.”

You looked at the Prince and his loyal friend- you wouldn’t call Seonghwa anything but a friend to Prince Hongjoong. A smile creeped up your face and the Prince mirrored it.

“You have. I knew you would have.”

“I have,” you confirmed and Jongho clapped at that. “And I’ll gladly lend it to you.”

“Let us know what you want in return,” the Prince was smiling warmly, but you shook your head.

“I want nothing from you, Prince Hongjoong. I’ve never wanted anything from you. In fact… I don't know why I chose to help you, but you haven’t betrayed me like anyone else would have. You didn’t simply use me. That’s enough.”

“I told you she’s our friend,” Seonghwa grinned at the Prince and you gaped at them while Jongho stifled his laugh. 

“I guess you could call it that, though I never imagined I would have such a friend circle,” you laughed as you looked around at the three men.

“I’d like it if you could talk to me informally, Madame Lee,” Prince Hongjoong grinned. “Just call me Hongjoong. Both of you.”

“Only if you stop calling me Madame Lee as well,” you said and everyone laughed at that. “So… I do have a record of all the events that took place because of my business. Would that be enough?”

“We’d like it if you could come with us when we talk to the scholars,” Seonghwa pushed his dark hair out of his eyes. “It would make a better impression- that the Minister’s daughter doesn’t approve of whatever’s happening.”

“I suppose it would be a slap on my father’s face as well,” you pondered. “I’m not sure they would like me much, though. I don’t exactly have the best reputation.”

“That doesn’t matter,” Hongjoong assured you. “So? Will you?”

“I will,” you promised.

“If I may,” Jongho began and everyone nodded. “Has anyone heard of the Twilight Society?”

“The Twilight Society?” You frowned, glancing at Seonghwa and Hongjoong who were looking at each other suspiciously. “It looks like someone has.”

“Where did you hear that?” Hongjoong’s voice was grim. Jongho straightened a bit, glancing at you.

“I imagine it exists then?”

“It existed,” Seonghwa corrected. “Long ago. No one has called its name out loud in two decades.”

“Who were they?” Jongho asked and Seonghwa shook his head.

“Where did you hear it?”

“I once heard Mr. Lee talk to his right hand man about some Twilight Society- it sounded like a name of a place or a group. I forgot all about it, but some recent digging into the past made me wonder if I shouldn’t have forgotten about it after all.”

You were confused- what was he getting at? Seonghwa was looking at Hongjoong, waiting for his sign to either proceed with the chat or shut everyone up. But then Hongjoong took a deep breath.

“Who is involved? Why are you digging into the past? The Twilight Society was dissolved two decades ago”

“My parents were spies for the King- your father,” Jongho began. “I’m imagining that the Twilight Society was some special mission group which my parents were a part of- they passed away during that mission.”

Hongjoong nodded slowly. “I’m not aware of the members of that society, but I’ll look into it. How does this help us, though?”

“I don’t think my parents passed away because of the enemy- I think something happened. I’m sure Mr. Lee wasn’t a member, but he knows all about what happened to the Twilight Society. If it really was a top secret mission, why does he know about it? Especially when he wasn’t an important figure back then? I’m sure none of the members would have told any outsider of what their mission was, or who they were, for that matter.”

“That’s awfully suspicious,” Seonghwa glanced at you and realised you weren’t aware of this either. “I think I should look into who the members were, and see if your parents really were members of that group. I should look into what exactly their mission was, and why no one dares speak of it.”

“Thank you,” Jongho nodded. “I’m sure the scholars wouldn’t be pleased to hear that someone like Mr. Lee knows of the King’s private matters since so long ago.”

After concluding the discussion, you and Jongho decided to walk back to the Hotel unescorted- there was this unexplainable rush of adrenaline you were feeling after finding out everything. You glanced at Jongho. “I really think we should look at my father’s old house again- there must be something back there.”

“I think so too- at first, I thought I was overthinking, but since they confirmed it…” 

You nodded. “How about we make a little detour?”

Jongho narrowed his eyes at you. “Isn’t it way past your bedtime?”

“I’m not some old cranky woman who cares too much about her ‘bedtime’,” you pouted. “Plus, I’m wide awake after that conversation back in the palace. The house is near as well- only a two minutes walk from here.”

“Well, I suppose we could-”

Jongho’s eyes caught a flash in the dark and you almost screamed when he grabbed your arms and turned around, hiding you two behind a tree as an arrow whooshed past you and hit right where you would have been. Jongho scanned you once to make sure you were okay. “Do you have any weapons on you?”

You nodded and he dared to take a peek, resulting in another arrow mere inches away from the tree you were hiding behind. You took a deep breath. “You have your gun?”

Jongho nodded. You told him your plan and he agreed. Jongho slid to his left, shooting at the direction from where the two arrows had come from and running to the other tree for cover right as you went to your right, separating from him, hoping there was only one or two persons attacking you instead of a whole group. You were right next to another street and you took advantage of the shadows and your black cloak to disappear into the street while Jongho, being a bait, made your attackers follow him away from you. But what you hadn’t told Jongho of your plan was that you were going to take a detour yourself.

You could hear the attacks- the gun wasn’t too loud thanks to the silencer but you could hear the scuffle. You went for the street across where Jongho was, spotting the men. They were two, to your relief. You produced a dagger from your boot and aimed for the closest person, hitting him square in the back.

If there was one thing you were proud of, it was your aim. 

The other man noticed his partner and aimed his arrow for you. You rolled to the side and waited for the arrow to miss you before throwing a dagger, practically blind, and missing him as well. You knew now that he was going to come for you, and you hid and waited until he did. You knocked the arrow out of his grip and almost hit him with the dagger but he gripped your wrist and twisted it painfully. You took off your hairpin, unravelling your hair from the bun, and hit his shoulder. He screamed in pain but unfortunately, his grip on your wrist didn't loosen and he twisted you until your back was flush against him, with the very dagger you had planted in his shoulder now painfully digging in your neck.

"I've waited so long to kill you," his raspy voice made you shiver. You rolled your eyes, about to hit his side with your elbow in an attempt to get free but then the man tensed.

"You move one inch and I shoot you right here." 

It was Jongho, right behind the man, and though you couldn't see him, you figured he had creeped up behind you and was pointing the gun at the man's head. The man scoffed, purposely dragging the dagger along your neck just enough to cut you before raising his hands in the air, dropping the dagger. Now free, you immediately turned and went behind Jongho.

"Who sent you?"

"You can kill me. I won't answer."

"You don't need to," you said, voice steel. "Do whatever you please with him, Jongho."

Jongho shot at the man's thigh, his scream ringing through the air before he stifled it. "Come prepared next time… if you can even manage to walk."

Jongho grabbed your hand and you both made a run for the house- someone was bound to come and check what the screaming was about, especially since this was a residential area. Once inside your old house, you shut the door and Jongho immediately grabbed your shoulder, examining the wound on your neck.

"Are you hurt anywhere else?" He asked and you shook your head. Jongho sighed. "Do you have any idea how dangerous this was?"

"This isn't the first time," you simply said. 

"Why did you come back? I had it under control-”

“I couldn’t just leave you there-”

“You could have been hurt!” Jongho sounded exasperated but then he shook his head, touching the skin right behind the cut, wiping the trickling blood in process. “You could have been killed, and I-”

“You could have been killed as well,” you locked eyes with him. “You think I would have liked that? I came back for you. That’s it- I don’t care if it was dangerous.”

Jongho almost glared at you but soon he was smiling, brushing your hair away from your shoulders as he tucked your hair behind. The mere action was so intimate, nothing like you had ever experienced before, that you suddenly felt conscious of the distance between you two, the sound of his breath, and his gaze- he played with your hair. “I like you better with your hair down.”

You rolled your eyes at that, trying to push him away but he grabbed your wrists, making you look up at him. “Don’t you ever scare me like that again, okay?”

You pursed your lips, feeling overwhelmed- he actually cared. You nodded, and he left your wrists only to wrap his arms securely around you, and this time, you hugged him back properly, wrapping your arms around his waist and sighing in relief because you had been wanting to do that for a long time now. With a kiss to your temple, he broke the hug, making you raise your brows at him. 

“You make me so confused, y/n,” he almost whispered, cupping your face and caressing your cheeks as he looked at you. “I don’t know how I went from strongly disliking you to… this.”

“This?” You asked. “Are you saying you actually like me now?”

“See?” He laughed. “You’re such a tease. I didn’t like that at first, but I’m not going to complain now.”

“I’m as confused as you right now,” you put your hands on his that were still holding your face. “What do you intend to do with me, Choi Jongho?”

He almost smirked at that, leaning forward and planting a lingering kiss on your forehead first, surprising you. His hands went further down your neck, tilting your face as he kissed your cheek, almost trailing his lips down to yours-

Before you could grab him and do the deed, the sound of something crashing in the living room made you both jump and Jongho once again put himself in front of you as you both went for the living room. The window was open, however, the cardboard boxes that had been right under it were almost smashed, as if someone had stepped over them. Whoever had intruded had probably knocked something over and was either hiding or ran away. You went for the window, spotting movement at the end of the street before it disappeared entirely. 

“I don’t think we’re safe yet,” you announced. “Let’s get this over with quickly. You search the office, I’ll search the rooms.”

“Okay,” Jongho’s gaze was indecipherable and he went to the office while you went to your room first, checking the box under the floor to see if whoever intruded had something to do with this. However, your previous letter was still there. Sighing, you went to your parents’ room, searching for something you didn’t know the nature of. But anything suspicious, anything that resembled a journal or an entry book, you grabbed that and met Jongho in the hallway, who had done the same.

“Should we wait before we go back? Someone might be outside.”

“That someone could very well come inside too, so let’s just go back- I feel safer in my own room,” you referred to your hotel and he nodded, putting everything in a bag that he wore before and grabbing more weapons before you left. Your walk was swift and silent, and you relaxed once you reached the hotel. 

“Someone must have known we were going out tonight- I told no one, though. Did you?” You asked Jongho as you went inside your room and he dumped the bag on the table.

“I didn’t,” Jongho shook his head. “Did anyone see you?”

“I don’t think so, but I think there might be a rat here, in my staff,” you felt bitter at the thought alone. “I’ll think about it tomorrow, I have the worst headache right now.”

“Just sleep,” Jongho nodded. “Let’s talk tomorrow?”

You nodded, and walked Jongho to the door. You called his name and when he turned, you tiptoed to kiss him on his cheek, catching him by surprise. 

“Thank you for… everything.”

Jongho made a funny face as if he couldn’t believe it but then he smiled, waving as he left, and when you shut the door, you sank to the floor grinning like an idiot.

—-------------------

“I don’t think we’re finding anything at this rate. It’s all so cryptic anyway- what are you doing?”

You were glaring at one of your father’s journals, the entries very cryptic, just like Jongho had said. You found out that your father usually noted when exactly he met someone and at what place, and you wondered if noting it down helped him with his memory- he didn’t have a bad memory at all. That must be the reason. 

“You know, glaring holes into these isn’t going to make something pop up,” Jongho tossed a candy near you and you glared at him once before unwrapping it and putting it into your mouth, going back to what you were doing. “You’ll have better luck looking at these albums- let’s switch.”

You sighed, smacking the diary shut and slumping back. “I think we’re only wasting our time. He’s not one to leave behind any trace.” You exchanged your diaries with the albums and started flipping through them. “And even if we find something, we can’t really link anything to what’s currently happening. It’s a long shot.”

“No harm looking,” Jongho said, flipping through the pages. “Besides, isn’t it fun just sitting here and doing basically nothing? A day off from your duties?”

“I don’t remember the last time I took a day off,” you smiled, but then it faltered. “However, this is the last thing I would want to do on my day off.”

Jongho looked at you then, suddenly curious. “What would you rather do instead?”

“I don’t know,” you stretched your arms, thinking. “Visit the beach? It’s been a while, but now there are soldiers everywhere. I could go to the beach in the south though. That area has been secluded for a while and I have acquaintances who live there. It would be nice to visit them.”

“Well,” Jongho threw the diary back into the bag. “Get up then. We’re going to the beach. I’ll be back in a few minutes, and you better be ready by then.”

“Wait, you’re serious?” You scoffed. “I can’t just leave like this-”

“You can,” Jongho grinned. “You’re the boss here. This place can run itself. Come on, get up.”

“Jongho,” you groaned, looking up at the roof as if that would help. Jongho only crawled behind you and flicked your forehead, making you mutter a curse at which he snickered before pushing you up. 

“Don’t be such a brat. Dress casually for once- and don’t tie your hair.”

“Why are you so obsessed with my hair-” you faltered when you recalled how you two had almost kissed last night. You glanced at him and were surprised to see a light flush across his cheeks.

“It just makes you look good. I like it, okay?” He fidgeted awkwardly and then shoo-ed you again, making you laugh as he practically pushed you inside your room. “Fifteen minutes!”

Jongho liked you, you were sure. You liked him too, there was no denying it, but you two were still figuring it out, it seemed. And you planned to get to know him today- not the Jongho who worked under Mr. Lee, but Choi Jongho, the person that he was. You shuffled through your clothes and wore a beige casual gown with ruffled sleeves, leaving your hair half tied with a straw hat, and finally pulling over your black cloak. As you stood in front of the mirror with a racing heart, you realised you were excited. You hadn’t felt like this in years.

Jongho was changing you and your life, and though you hated sudden change, you liked this. And you were realising that he was breaking your walls down. You would never let anyone get as close to you as Jongho had gotten in such a short period of time. You never trusted someone, never asked someone to trust you, yet…

You heard a knock on the door and took a deep breath before taking your bag and opening the door, both of you surprised as you scanned each other- Jongho because you really had let your hair down, and you because he was dressed in a white button up shirt under a brown coat and he looked really, really good.

“Who are you?” You asked, making him grin. “Remember to take your weapons- it’s not safe anywhere these days.”

“I’d remind you too, but I’m afraid to ask just how many daggers you keep on you.”

“Don’t ask,” you nodded, “Shall we?”

The two of you decided to take public transport until you reached the town that bordered the beach in the south. You pointed out a few spots to Jongho and he tried to recall what he remembered of Mist Island. You told him you should have shown him around earlier, but he insisted that now was okay. He also asked why you preferred the beach in the south as opposed to the one closer, when you both took horses for the rest of the path.

“It’s the one spot my mother took me whenever she felt overwhelmed,” you told him. “As you know, my father was absent for the most part of my life. Maybe she missed him. Maybe she just needed someone by her side- someone who was not a child.”

“And the people who live here, the ones you mentioned?” Jongho asked. “Who are they?”

“That’s where they live,” you pointed at a hut at the top of the hill, not very far from where you were now. “They were her friends- I don’t exactly know how. It’s been a decade since I last came here so I guess I will have to reintroduce myself. Maybe they’ll remember me.”

You tied your horses to the trees near the hut and decided to go around the beach first before visiting the hut. The beach was empty, only the sound of the waves crashing and the seagulls in the air. You took off your sandals and Jongho followed, grinning at the feeling of the wet sand in your feet. 

“This beach is a lot cleaner, I’ll give you that,” Jongho laughed.

“And there’s no one,” you smiled. “We’ve got this place all to ourselves- that’s my favourite part.”

Jongho watched you- something in you had shifted the moment you took off your shoes and started walking along the shore, occasionally bending to pick a seashell. He followed closely behind, loving the way the wind was blowing your hair away. You turned and caught him staring at you and you raised a brow. He only came beside you to walk with you.

“If we prevent this war and peace comes one day, what do you want to do? After everything is over?”

Jongho thought about it before answering. “I want to move back here. I feel like I’m home.”

“It is your home,” you nodded. “I’m glad you’re finally ditching Eden.”

“I never liked it much if I’m being honest,” Jongho laughed, looking at you. “What would you like to do?”

You took a deep breath, pausing and gazing at the setting sun, the pastels in the sky and the sea. “I want to sell my hotel and find lodging somewhere away from the city- preferably here. I could train the girls here in a variety of things- business, self defence, or even knitting. I just… want to live a quiet life…” you looked at him. “Would you like to join me? You could teach them whatever tricks you’ve learned from my father.”

Jongho threw his head back as he laughed, making you laugh as well. “Yeah? I could teach them how to deal with spoiled brats like you too.”

“Definitely,” you grinned. “What do you say? You and me in this town, away from all the drama. Living in a nice little cottage, growing our own vegetables-”

“Together?” Jongho asked, and something told you that he was talking about a lot of ‘togethers’. You looked at him, watching the wind blowing away his dark hair, his eyes glinting with a hint of amusement, a faint smile on his lips. Would you like to spend the rest of your life with him? Would he like to stay your friend at the very least?

“Together,” you nodded, promising. “If you’d like-”

You didn’t expect him to cup your face and bring you in for a kiss but after recovering from the initial shock, you immediately melted into it, kissing him back, your hands fisting his shirt. The moment couldn’t have been more perfect, and when Jongho broke apart, he joined his forehead with yours. 

“I’m only staying in Mist Island if it’s with you,” he admitted, looking in your eyes for an answer and you gave him a nod, kissing him again. The waves washed your feet as you kissed, making you shiver into it, and you both broke apart, giggling slightly. You put an arm at his back, leaning into him as you both watched the sun set, overwhelmed by the emotions so opting to let the moment talk for itself.

As soon as it got dark, you both headed for the hut and you spotted a woman. “Aunt Nari?”

The woman turned and you gasped at how much she had aged- her hair had lost its colour and there were wrinkles on her face, but somehow, she was still graceful, especially in the way she walked to you and touched your face as if she couldn’t believe her eyes.

“Y/n?” She asked and you nodded which resulted in her immediately enveloping you in a hug as she expressed how surprised she was to see you here and how much she had missed you. “Where’s your mother?”

You glanced at Jongho and then back at the woman. Thankfully, her attention diverted as well and she asked who the ‘young handsome man’ was. 

“My friend, Jongho,” you introduced and Jongho raised a brow at you before greeting the woman. She made you two sit on one of the benches, lighting the rest of the lamps before going inside for refreshments and to call her husband. Jongho tapped your shoulder.

“Just your friend?”

“What else do you suppose you are?” You teased.

“Well, I don’t know,” Jongho leaned forward, making you lean back as well but he leaned to whisper in your ear, “Do friends kiss like that?”

He was so pleased to see you blush like that, and felt victorious when you had no retort. You were relieved to be interrupted by Aunt Nari’s husband coming to greet you both.

“You’ve grown up so much!” He laughed as the couple sat down in front of you. The man looked at Jongho. “Last I saw her, she was still this much-”

“I was not that small!” You scoffed and the rest of them laughed. 

“How’s your mother? I thought she would be with you- did she forget us? She hasn’t visited us in forever.”

“Actually, I’m sorry I didn’t come earlier,” you told them, sipping on the tea before continuing. “My mother kind of went missing a few years ago. I’ve been searching for her but to no avail.”

“Oh, goodness,” Aunt Nari set her cup down. “When did that happen? Where could she be?”

“I don’t know how or why it happened,” you sighed. “Last I know is she went to Eden to visit my father- about eight years ago- and then she never came back. I tried contacting you back then but you weren’t here.”

“That must have been when we thought we’d settle in Utopia,” Uncle Jung said. “We only came back to Mist Island three years ago.”

“Ah,” you nodded. “Well, Aunt Nari, you knew my mother better than me. Do you think she ever wanted to run away? Simply leave everything behind and escape? You know she didn’t have the best relationship with my father.”

“One thing I know for sure is that even if she wanted to, she could never leave you,” she said and you almost slumped in relief. Jongho put a hand on yours. “Did you not find a clue or something?”

“I searched all these years in Eden, but Jongho told me she had left- presumably for Mist Island. I suspect my father had a hand in this- he clearly knows whether she’s alive or dead but sometimes he feigns innocence. Sometimes he slips and says something which makes me think if he’s behind this. I don’t know what to believe anymore.”

“Oh dear, that’s unfortunate,” Aunt Nari looked at her husband and you noticed their cryptic gaze. 

“If there's anything you can tell me that might help… please tell me.”

“I suppose you’re grown enough to know this,” Aunt Nari looked guilty. “Your father isn’t the best man, I suppose you know that already.” You nodded at that and she continued, “Your father always wanted to involve himself in dangerous politics. Your mother opposed that strongly at first but then she gave in. The last time she met me, which must have been right before she went to visit him in Eden, she told me she was so close to discovering something about your father- something she could use to finally separate from him. He was always lying to her, that man. She knew he was a liar, a murderer, but he always denied it. She didn’t want to be with a man who she didn’t feel safe with.”

You nodded at that. You could understand that about her. “Did she tell you what she was about to find?”

“Something about this secret mission from the King- I suppose there are a lot of those, but this one somehow involved your father. She didn’t exactly tell me how or why, but she was convinced that your father had a hand in the mission going horribly wrong, which also caused the death of someone she was close with.”

You felt Jongho’s grip on your hand tighten a bit. “Is that it?” You asked and she nodded. “Thank you so much, Aunt. I’ll visit you again. I’m searching for answers myself, so this was very helpful.”

“Just stay safe, kid,” she patted your cheek as you got up. “Stay safe.”

You hugged them both, promising again to visit them when you’ll finally find the answers, and when you were about to ride back, you looked at Jongho. “This has to be connected to the Twilight Society, right? My father messed up something with that mission, it seems.”

“Let’s wait until Seonghwa confirms this,” he patted your shoulder before you two got up on your horses. “And let’s pray it’s not worse than we think.”

—----------------

Now that you had taken a step further into your relationship with Jongho, you were finding just how much everything had changed but strangely enough, nothing had changed at all. 

It was kind of funny- you both still teased each other to the point the other would be annoyed, you both still spent most of your time together. He hovered over you a lot while you were working, and when you had free time you two would talk. Yet… the way you looked at each other now was different. Every glance and every touch was more meaningful. You two didn’t have much experience in that field so you two were navigating your way together, at a calm pace. 

However, sometimes all you wanted was for him to hold you. Sometimes, at night after wrapping up, if you both were up for one last cup of tea or coffee, you two would sit by the fire in each other’s arms. He would massage your shoulders or you would play with his hair. Such simple gestures filled your heart with an overwhelmingly good feeling. And sometimes, when he would tuck your hair back before he kissed you, you would want to live in that moment forever. 

You both were still trying to figure out just what Mr. Lee’s role was in the disappearance of your mother, in the Twilight Society’s mission that had failed. With each passing day, there was this undeniable tension growing around you two. Mr. Lee was your father, and he was the man who raised Jongho. Though you two badmouthed the man all you wanted with each other, things were different now as the suspicions grew. 

As you closed the register and instructed Sakura to take the files to the storage, you glanced at Jongho who was sitting in a corner, going through some of his own work. He wanted to buy some land here since he had a lot of money from his time in Eden, and he was also trying to acquire the land that had once been his- his father’s home. You put your face in your hands as you watched him dreamily, your attention diverting when the bell rang and the customers entered-

Prince Hongjoong. Seonghwa. And a few guards. For a moment, your heart sank and an eerie silence fell in the hotel, prompting Jongho to look up as well. But when the Prince smiled after spotting you, you relaxed. 

“I’m just here to grab coffee with you, can you tell everyone to relax?” Hongjoong laughed as you greeted him.

“They can’t help it,” you grinned. 

“I’ll ask the guards to stay outside,” Seonghwa said and you led Hongjoong to the sitting area, who decided to sit with Jongho when he spotted him. Seonghwa joined and you had a maid take their order.

“Are you free right now?” Hongjoong asked. 

“I am,” you confirmed. “What prompted you to get coffee this late at night? Shouldn’t you be getting your royal sleep or something?”

Hongjoong chuckled. “I thought I’d visit here and boom your business. It’s been a while since I last came here.”

You nodded- it had been years. The only time he had visited was when he wanted to personally scout you. Hongjoong grinned. “I’ll visit more now, now that we’re… friends.”

“After all of this is over, this place might be no more,” you surprised him with that. “So visit more often, preferably months apart instead of years.”

“Alright,” Hongjoong nodded, glancing at Seonghwa and Jongho who were engaged in some discussion. “We’ve found out everything, y/n. About the Twilight Society. We have gathered proof, and I would like it if you could visit the day after tomorrow so we can talk to the scholars.”

Your heart sank. “Of course. Are you going to tell me what you learned?”

“After coffee,” Hongjoong sighed. “And alone. More because Jongho would need to be alone when he hears it.”

You glanced at him, your heart breaking. “How bad is it?”

“Worse than we thought,” Hongjoong sipped on his coffee. “I’m guessing you have a vague idea of what might have occurred as well.”

“I’ll let you tell me- I really don’t want to assume,” you took a big sip of your coffee, a million thoughts in your head, nothing making sense. Hongjoong talked a bit about the scholars and how they would like to hear whatever information you all would bring forward, but you could only pay him half the attention.

“I’ll brief him,” Seonghwa was the first to get up along with Jongho, who looked like he had no clue what he was going to hear. Seonghwa passed a subtle nod to Hongjoong and he got up as well. That was when Jongho got confused, when all of you made your way up the stairs. Jongho brushed his hand with yours, asking if everything was alright. You only squeezed it with a sad smile. “I’ll see you after we get briefed.”

Jongho nodded, confused when you parted ways in the hallway, Hongjoong following you to your room. He hadn’t missed the exchange between you two. “Is there something going on between you and Jongho?”

When you looked at him, your sad eyes were all the confirmation he needed. “Oh goodness. I didn’t realise how close you two were. Should I ask Seonghwa to stop-”

“That’s okay,” you urged him to take a seat. “Let’s hear it and get it over with.”

Hongjoong told you then. The only survivor of Twilight Society was the man who was now your father’s right hand man, who had actually faked his death on the documents to escape to Eden under the protection of your father. “Jongho’s parents were initially spies for the King before they met and fell in love. After their marriage, when Jongho was about two years old, the King gave them a mission which came to be their last.

“My father cherished his team, but this mission was risky. His spies were loyal to him so they wanted to take on this mission- they had to infiltrate Eden’s palace to retrieve some stolen documents. The mission was a success, actually. They came back unharmed, but Mr. Ahn- your father’s right hand man- he teamed up with your father to take all the glory for themselves. They stole the documents, and your father… he killed all the spies except him. After having a look at the documents, he made a copy and gave that to the King, but kept the original for himself, which is why he holds so much power.”

“Oh, goodness,” your hands were trembling when you brought them to your face. “My father killed his friends? Jongho’s parents?”

“We captured Mr. Ahn a few days ago, and he finally gave us some information but it was ugly,” he grimaced and you understood. “I’m sorry about this. I don’t know how Jongho will take it.”

“He raised him, Hongjoong,” you took a deep breath, willing your anger to subside but to no avail. “That man, that filth- he killed his parents and then raised him himself. What sort of a person does that? Jongho would have been loyal to him still had he not accidentally heard his conversation with Mr. Ahn and my mother’s warning-”

You paused. Your mother had gone to Eden. She had warned Jongho about a truth that she had discovered. Your father had heard her, and then she never came back. 

“What’s wrong?” Hongjoong frowned when he watched your face go pale. 

“I think he might have killed my mother too- she found out about the Twilight Society, Hongjoong,” you looked at him, fists clenching. “He would not have let her live, would he?”

Hongjoong sighed. “I think Seonghwa has something he would want to tell you about that matter.”

You waited, furious at everything and everyone, Hongjoong patting your back and then Seonghwa knocked and entered. One look at you and he felt like you had already connected the dots. He walked to you and sat beside you. “I’m sorry, y/n. Mr. Ahn told me your father… killed your mother. I don’t know if it’s true though- I can’t be sure if he’s lying or not.”

“I know he did,” you wiped your eyes. “He’s always hinted at that. And I’m going to kill him for that-”

“You will do no such thing,” Hongjoong’s voice was serious. “I get that you would want revenge. Jongho would too. But let us, let me handle it. People like Mr. Lee, their crimes should be made public. They need to fall from all that glory, and they need to feel the shame. I’m sorry, but he doesn’t deserve the swift death that you or Jongho would give him.”

You took a deep breath- somehow, Hongjoong was right. And somehow… you felt like you had known all this for a while. What kind of a man your father was. You nodded. “We can go to the scholars tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow then,” Hongjoong said. “I promise we’ll wrap up your father’s case quickly. This bloody mess shouldn’t turn into a war. Enough lives have been lost. Prince Woobin will be held accountable for possessing this knowledge and keeping it to himself as well.”

You were surprised to hear that- but then again, the relation between Prince Woobin and Prince Hongjoong was much like that of the one between your father and you. You thanked him for coming to tell you both in person, and when you shut the door, you thought of Jongho. 

Mustering your courage, you walked to Jongho’s suite, finding the door unlocked and you went inside, where you could hear Jongho’s soft sobs inside his room, the door shut. You wondered if you should back off and let him have some time to himself. He probably hated you and didn’t want to see you. After all, you were the daughter of the man who had killed his parents. With a wet face, you took a few steps until you were right in front of the door and then slid down, your back to the door. You could hear him- he was probably in the same position as you, with his back to the door too.

“Jongho,” you called and he fell silent, having heard you. “I’m so, so sorry Jongho. I- I don’t know what to say. I just want you to know that I’m sorry-”

He heard you break into sobs and he wiped his face. He heard you continue, “You can hate me. You’re allowed to hate me. Just let me see you once, please.”

Jongho couldn’t hate you- how could he ever? That man who was your father had also killed your mother. He had stolen as much from you as he had from him. You both were victims. Yes, you were your father’s daughter, but…

You were nothing like him, he thought. Your kindness, your dedication, your loyalty… you had basically freed him from the man who had held his clutches all those long, miserable years. You hadn’t caged him like your father had caged him. You were your mother’s daughter, the woman who had raised Jongho with enough love to last him a lifetime, the woman who had warned him and in the process, lost her life. Jongho couldn’t hate you. He felt sorry towards you- your mother had died because of him.

For a few minutes, the two of you sat like that until you heard Jongho get up and you moved away from the door, opting to rest your back against the wall. A few more minutes passed before Jongho finally opened the door and saw you with a black but wet face, knees drawn to your chest. He sat down beside you and some silent moments passed before he spoke.

“I hate Mr. Lee. Probably as much as you hate him, probably more.”

“I know,” you sniffed. 

“But y/n, what makes you think I would hate you?” he asked softly and you glanced at him. “I want to apologise too. Your father must have killed your mother after he heard her talk to me. She risked herself for me, and ended up dying. I’m sorry, y/n.”

“No, no,” you shook your head, turning to face him. “That’s not your fault at all.”

“Then you can stop crying, because being your father’s daughter is not your fault as well,” he simply said, facing you and taking your hands in his lap, caressing them as he continued. “We both lost so much because of that man. I think we should stop blaming ourselves now. I know that my parents have been dead for years now, but you only just found out about your mother. I’m so sorry for that.”

You nodded, looking down at your joined hands. “I’d understand if you don’t want to be together anymore, though-”

“And why would I leave you?” He tugged at your hands, making you look at him and your heart softened at the way he was looking at you. “You’re just y/n to me. The daughter who looked for her mother all those years. The woman who was strong enough to stand on her own feet when she was alone. The person who saved her home, Mist Island, by choosing the right side. The person who risks her life for the people she loves, for the people she chooses. The person I fell in love with- it’s not Mr. Lee’s daughter. It’s simply you.”

You smiled at that, tears rolling down your face again. “That was cheesy.”

“Yeah?” Jongho laughed, cupping your face as he wiped your tears, his gaze suddenly dark. “Tell me you love me too, y/n.”

You took his hands away from your face only to let him hold your waist as you crawled near him, sitting in his lap, running a hand through his hair, cupping his surprised face and kissing his lips once. “You made me realise there’s more to life than just chasing after something I can’t see. You’ve made me feel safe, and you made me feel loved. I wouldn’t trade it for anything else- I love you, and you only.”

Jongho sighed at that, resting his head on your shoulder as you held him, as if he was trying to let this sink in. His hands caressed your waist softly, and you played with the hair on the nape of his neck. When he finally shifted, he brought one hand to cup your neck as he kissed it, right at your weak point and you stifled a sigh. He felt that, and you could feel his smirk through his lips as he continued to kiss you along your neck, attacking your sweet spot way too many times until you moaned. You slapped the back of his neck. “Jongho!”

“I love the sounds that you make,” he muttered, cupping your face and swallowing any response you had as he kissed you with a feverish desperation- showing you that he loved you, that he didn’t want to lose you, that he didn’t care who your father was because you were the one that he wanted. You tried matching his pace but you let him have his way as he kissed all his worries and anxieties away, leaning into you with a force that had your back arching until you held onto him as he laid you down on the floor.

“You’re so beautiful,” he said as the two of you tried to catch your breaths, as he caressed your hair. “You’re… so beautiful.”

You couldn’t hide the flush that creeped up your cheeks- you wouldn’t have believed it had he not been looking at you with such an intense gaze. You let your hands travel down his chest, stopping at his waist, earning a sharp intake of breath from him, and he waited no further to start peppering kisses down your face, down your neck, and then you were making out again without any signs of stopping.

“Shall we take this to bed?” You suggested when you two broke apart to catch your breath. He smiled as he lazily kissed your lips again and again. 

“If you’d like, Madame,” he whispered into your ear, tugging at your earlobe with his teeth and you laughed, smacking his chest. 

“You’re naughtier than I thought.”

“Oh, you haven’t seen the best of me yet,” he said, picking you up effortlessly, earning a little scream from you, and you knew Jongho was strong but the way he had picked you up? Without flinching? It was hot, and it sent heat rushing through your body, especially when he put you down on the bed ever so gently.

“It’s a challenge,” you grinned, and he didn’t disappoint you for the rest of the night.

—----------------------

Mist Island had changed a lot in the past few weeks, ever since Prince Hongjoong was officially appointed as the person in charge of the palace, Prince Woobin having been exiled for his crimes, and the King having stepped down from the throne. Hongjoong wasn’t king yet, but already the people were absolutely pleased with him- all the traitors to the safety of this land were behind bars.

That included your father- with the heaviest sentence. His involvement was not made public simply because it would have caused the people to lose faith in their government and their officials, even though all of you would have loved to see his walk of shame. He had committed every crime that he possibly could, and the world was better off knowing such a monster never existed in the first place. 

You also found out just who the rat in your staff had been, who had been reporting to your father and the reason you were almost killed that night when you visited the palace. It was none other than Sakura- the person you worked closely with, the manager when you were absent. However, surprisingly enough, she had come clean to you herself, claiming to not know the extent your father was willing to go (after all, what father would do that to his own child?) and claiming that she was threatened with her own life too. 

You let her off the hook, only because you were closing down Hotel Crescent. A friend of yours from Eden was visiting and offered to buy the place, and you were glad for the timing. It couldn’t have been more perfect. You wrapped up everything in a matter of days before handing him the keys and taking what little you owned to your house.

You were going to keep the house, but you weren’t going to live there. You still wanted to move to the south, and you had even bought land near the beach, where currently your house was being constructed. Your and Jongho’s house, with wide gardens so you two could train people as well, just as planned. 

You looked at Jongho, laughing over something with Seonghwa and Hongjoong, who were currently in your house. You smiled to yourself, picking up the tray and setting the tea and snacks in front of them before sitting beside Jongho. “What’s so funny?”

“I have a job offer for you,” Hongjoong was grinning and you raised a brow in amusement. “I will be crowned king soon. Seonghwa would of course be my Right Hand, but I could use both of you too. I’d like you as my advisor, and Jongho as the head of security. If you’d like.”

You poured tea for him and laughed a bit as you looked at Seonghwa and Hongjoong’s faces, anxiously waiting for your answer. “I… would love that-”

“See, I told you she’d agree!” Hongjoong began-

“But,” you interrupted, “Not now. I don’t think I’d make a good advisor right now. I would like to live peacefully for a while, without a threat on my head as it has always been. You, of all people, would understand that.”

Hongjoong smiled warmly. “Of course. What do you plan to do?”

“Live with Jongho at the beach in the south,” you picked his hand and showed off your engagement rings to the two of them who clapped enthusiastically. “Just take a breather. Maybe train the women there in various skills. Jongho would like to do something similar as well.”

“You two could train our future spies while you’re there,” Seonghwa looked at Hongjoong who nodded and then at Jongho. “Would you like that?”

“Training your spies for you, but they would be answering to me,” you sipped on your tea and everyone laughed. You shook your head. “I would… like that, actually. And maybe once I’ve had enough of the seaside and once we’re sick of the beach, we’d come back. What do you say?”

Jongho squeezed your hand. “Sounds like a plan.”

“Well then, do come visit often. Don’t just forget us,” Hongjoong said.

“Don’t pretend not to recognise us when we come to visit,” Jongho said and everyone laughed at that. 

“You’ll make a very good king, Prince Hongjoong,” you told him and his eyes gleamed at that. “Don’t disappoint us. Remember- we can always kill you in your sleep.”

“Maybe I shouldn’t have made friends with you,” Hongjoong looked at Seonghwa who was grinning. 

The four of you talked and joked and teased each other for a good while until it was time for the Prince to leave. You told them you were leaving for the south tomorrow as well. They shook hands with you and thanked you for your service. Hongjoong said, “I owe a lot of my success to you. I hope you know that, and I hope you appreciate that my doors are open for you, whenever you’d like.”

“And I owe the fact that I’m taking a breather to you too,” you nodded. “Come visit me for a vacation sometime.”

The two left and Jongho put an arm around your shoulder. “I’ll kind of miss them, even though I haven’t known them for long.”

“I know,” you smiled. “They really grew up on me.”

“You looked pleased when you showed off our rings,” Jongho teased and you laughed. “Are you that happy?”

“Of course I am,” you turned to him, straightening his shirt before putting your hands on his shoulders. “I’ll show it off to everyone I meet. I’m proud of us.”

Jongho smiled at that, and as you hugged each other, you knew that you’ll be at home with him wherever you go- whether it be the palace or this house or the south, or even another place, faraway.

He was your home.

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let him eat cake // kim hongjoong

pairing: kim hongjoong x reader genre: light smut an: this is the first fic i think i've written in years so we're in this together wc: 3k warnings: spanking, voyeurism, punishment, pain, dom!hongjoong,

You don't think you've laughed so hard in ages. It was one thing that you were even able to get Wooyoung's attention.

It was another entirely that he listened to you.

Everyone knew that Woo tended to be the most ill-behaved of them all, so it shouldn't have surprised you that he actually wanted to go along with the idea. You had thought since this was in front of thousands of Atiny, Woo might think twice about embarrassing his captain in such a public setting.

Then again, everyone also knew that Woo was a glutton for punishment.

Initially, you stood shocked when the cake smeared its black frosting across Hongjoong's face, blinking rapidly as if the scene in front of you wasn't really happening. It took all of a few seconds for the sound of the stadium's erupted laughter to register with you and you were then joining in, sides aching from how hard you laughed in utter disbelief. He took it with all the composure of the team's captain as the crowd began to settle down.

That should have been the end of it, but Hongjoong had then looked at you. Really looked at you. You'd seen that look countless times when the members acted up. It was a look that told them to come to his room later, that everyone joked was where Hongjoong would punish them by spanking them.

You honestly brushed it off at first, and would've forgotten about it had his gaze not found you when he returned to stage a few minutes later, face unfortunately still frosted.

Your stomach sank and you felt a tightness in your chest as his eyes lingered on yours. The remainder of the show was spent with your heart racing, from the adrenaline of the concert to the seriousness of his gaze each time it found you throughout the rest of the night.

You felt as if you had run a mile at the end of the show, the floor clearing out little by little until there were only a handful of groups lingering here or there. You had started on your way out of the venue when a masked staff member stopped you and asked you to follow them. That was when your heart really started to hammer away, heat rising to your cheeks. Were you going to be in trouble? Did Wooyoung somehow blame it on you, and now you were going to take the fall?

All sorts of possibilities ran through your mind as you followed them through hallway after hallway until you reached an empty green room. The staff member didn't say much as they gestured for you to sit on the loveseat, where a form and pen sat waiting for you on the coffee table.

There's no fucking way…

You looked bewildered and didn't even have the chance to hide your surprise as you stared open mouthed between the Non-Disclosure Agreement and the staff member who waited patiently with a raised brow. "One of the members would like to meet you, and in order to do that we'll need you to sign this. This is just an agreement that--"

"I-I know what it is, thank you. I'll sign it."

You hadn't meant to come off so short, but you were freaking out internally. There was a slight tremble to your hand as it reached for the pen while your eyes scanned the document. Jokes were made about this exact situation all the time and you hadn't expected to ever find yourself in it. The worst part was that you had no idea what would follow once you signed. Even so, you had.

The staff member collected the document wordlessly and slipped it into a folder behind them before they had gestured for you to follow. You stood on wobbly legs but followed out regardless, your heart pounding as heat flooded your neck and face. The possibilities of what was to come had your stomach doing flips and you silently chewed the inside of your cheek. You hadn't gone far before they stopped and you had to stop yourself from running into their back while they rapped their knuckles on the door.

"Come in," came a familiar voice that sent a chill down your spine.

The staff member pushed the door open and inward, staying in the hallway while they gestured you inside. And what greeted you when you stepped inside made your heart stop in your chest and all of the breath leave your lungs.

Kim Hongjoong.

His dark gaze flicked behind you, the silent command enough as the door shut behind you, the sound making you startle, effectively bringing you back to earth. "It was Wooyoung's i--!" had quickly rushed out of your mouth, the sentence abruptly ended by a deadly smile and finger to the lips by Hongjoong, the idol you had always dreamed of meeting.

Though you could have never pictured something like this.

The look in his eyes made your heart skip several beats, making your head swim. He knew it too, could see it in the way your eyes had widened at him like saucers with worry knitted in your brow, your lips parted in shock. Most of the frosting had been cleaned from his face, but there were still dark smudges visible--evidence of your involvement.

"Don't you remember? Wooyoung said it was your idea. He wouldn't do it if a certain Atiny did not encourage him," he said, head tilted to the side with a predatory glint in his eye. That look made your stomach coil, your legs squeeze together. You knew you were probably beet red right now, and that realization only made it worse. Hongjoong chuckled.

"I-I'm so sorry, I didn't think he'd actually…I didn't even think he'd see me--! Oh my god…" You had begun, panicking once more as you ran a hand through your hair with worry etched deep in your features. Hongjoong only chuckled and stood, holding up his hands and shaking his head. "Relax, ….?" he cooed, brow raised prompting you for your name.

"Oh-- Y/N. My name is Y/N."

"Y/N…very pretty name," he said with a smile, sitting back down before he pat the cushion beside him. "Y/N, I asked before, but are you sure you are Atiny? Because my Atiny knows what happens when someone gets into trouble." You stared at him wide-eyed and quickly nodded your head. "Of course I'm Atiny! And...of course I know…" you had started out strong, determined to prove yourself as an Atiny. But your voice had faltered, quieting as you remembered what happened to those who got into trouble with the captain.

The few seconds it took you to cross the space and sit next to him--a healthy gap between the two of you--felt like an eternity as the edges of your vision darkened what was in front of you into a tunnel. You were conscious of how loud your heart hammered in your chest while the watch on your wrist vibrated to alert you of your increased heartrate. Hongjoong lifted a brow, that ever-present smirk taunting you and he nodded. "You do know? So you did it anyway, mm? It's almost like you wanted this to happen." It felt impossible for you to blush any harder but your body had become uncomfortably hot and you avoided meeting his gaze. There was no use in denying it, he knew that. He knew what his older Atiny thought of him and the rest of his members. You did want this. While you were lost in your thoughts, refusing to believe the reality before you, the very real and breathing captain watched you intently. The feeling of cool fingers on your chin made your hazy thoughts disappear in a blink and you sucked in a gasp. Hongjoong had captured your chin between his thumb and forefinger and forced you to look at him.

The second you did, all of your willpower had crumbled and the quietest whimper sounded in your throat. That made him smile, the sound of his chuckle making you press your thighs together. His head did not move as his eyes watched the subtle movement, brows raising as his smirk grew. You'd seen that look before in so many fancams, but seeing it in real life was devastating. "Y/N, I can hear how loud your heart is beating for me," he teased you as you sat awestruck, frozen under his gaze. At some point he had maneuvered himself closer to you, thigh brushing against yours and you wondered when he had had the time to do that without your notice. His face leaned into yours, his cheek brushing yours and your hand instinctively moved to cover your mouth as you sucked in a gasp. The hand that had held your chin moved to cup the back of your neck, thumb positioned on your cheek opposite his face. His breath caressed your ear as he spoke which sent a full body shiver down your spine while his other hand had moved to the dip where your hip met your thigh and squeezed once. "Y/N, I have to punish you, you know this?" When you didn't answer, the hand at your hip squeezed harder. "That was a question, Y/N." "Y-Yes..." "Yes, what?" "Yes, C..Captain." He chuckled against your ear. "Good girl. Come here," he commanded as he pulled away, patting his lap. The hand at your neck moved down your arm to your wrist to guide you closer until you were laid across his lap. You couldn't hear anything over the sound of your blood roaring in your ears while your heart pounded against your ribs. You were both embarrassed and enthralled, panicked and excited as his hands settled on your body. One moved to brush the hair that hung in front of your face behind your ear while the other rested on the small of your back. "Hmmm," Hongjoong mused, the hand on your back rubbing small circles, each circle widening until his hand rested on your ass. "I wonder how many would be enough? It is my birthday, so maybe I should do one for each year, hm? I think that is only fair. What do you say, Y/N?" You swallowed the thick lump that had formed in your throat and nodded once. "Y-Yes, Captain." "You learn quickly, I like that." CRACK. There was no warning when the first smack came and you cried out, the sting sharp even through the fabric of your pants. Hongjoong knew what he was doing as the blow landed not at the crest of where you ass was roundest, but right beneath. Right where all your weight would be whenever you sat. "Count." It was not a question and you swallowed a breath before you spoke, voice trembling. "O..One..." His hand rubbed the sting into your flesh, letting it fade before raising it and letting the second blow come without a moment's hesitation. CRACK. One of your hands covered your mouth to stifle your cry of pain, shaking as it moved away for you to count. "T-Two..." Even if it was a punishment, the soothing strokes of his palm after each slap was comforting. Hongjoong knew how to be careful, and it was clear all the rumors were true. "If it's too much, tell me to stop," he said as he massaged your already burning flesh. But he was surprised when you shook your head, glancing at him from over your shoulder. "I-I can handle it," you replied confidently despite how your voice wavered. The smile that spread across Hongjoong's face was dark, and you could see why he was part of the demon line. "Good girl." CRACK. "Three--!" CRACK. "F-Four.."

It didn't escape Hongjoong's notice how your thighs squeezed together with each blow, judging by how his hand would brush the apex of your thighs while he soothed your flesh. At some point your cries of pain had become moaning whimpers that you muffled behind your hand and you looked forward to the next and the next, your heart pounding now for other reasons. Hongjoong was enjoying it too, you could tell. If what had slowly begun to press into your abdomen while lying across his lap was any indication, he was thrilled by your responses. CRACK. "T-hirteen..." Your ass was burning, and you knew that sitting would be pain for the next few days. But God was it worth it. Hongjoong was impressed with how well you took the punishment, never asking him to stop for even a moment. The hand that wasn't spanking you would take turns caressing your back or running fingers through your hair, even moving to your mouth for you to bite down on should you grow too loud. CRACK. You wailed against his hand, a tremble in your thighs beginning to grow. Your ass was aching, heat radiating from the throbbing pain and Hongjoong waited patiently for you to gather yourself. "N.." You let out a trembling breath. "Nineteen." You tensed for the next blow only for it not to come. When you glanced over your shoulder, Hongjoong was staring intently at the door, brows narrowed. His eyes dropped to the crack beneath the door where a shadow moved. His hand rested possessively against your throbbing flesh and he spoke. "I know you are there, Wooyoung." Your head whipped toward the door as heat flooded your face. The silence felt like an eternity, and a few moments later the door slowly opened to a sheepish Wooyoung, eyes wide as his gaze fell on you across the captain's lap. Hongjoong commanded him wordlessly with a look and the door was then closed, Wooyoung crossing the room to sit in a chair opposite the couch you two were on. "How long have you been eavesdropping, Wooyoung?" He couldn't take his eyes off of the two of you, staring directly at you as he answered the captain's question. "Four.." came his simple answer before his gaze peeled from yours and moved up to Hongjoong's. "Four? And you were going to let Y/N take your punishment and listen from the outside? Naughty boy." Hongjoong scolded him, rubbing soothing circles into your ass. You were surprisingly grateful for the respite, but there were only five more to go. Wooyoung said nothing as his gaze dropped to the floor, eyes glancing at yours every now and then. "Apologize to her, Wooyoung. Make it convincing." Wooyoung looked at you for a moment before mumbling an apology. Hongjoong tensed beneath you and you felt your blush heat your face. "That wasn't very convincing. Do it properly."

Wooyoung's head snapped up to look at Hongjoong with a pleading gaze that was silenced by his hard stare. Woo stood from his chair and bowed at the waist, apologizing to you formally. He was still bowed when Hongjoong's hand suddenly cracked across your ass and you yelped, startling Wooyoung who abruptly straightened with wide eyes, his mouth agape. You began to speak, counting the spank when Hongjoong shushed you, his gaze never leaving Wooyoung's. "Count for her, you know where we left off since you've been outside the entire time." "Twenty.." came Wooyoung's quiet voice. CRACK. "Louder." CRACK. "Twenty-one--!" With each remaining blow, Wooyoung couldn't keep his eyes off of you, gaze snapping to your ass each time Hongjoong's hand met the suppled flesh. He squirmed where he stood, his own face flooded with heat. Watching the captain punish you coupled with the sounds you made had his hands folded in front of his lap, quickly getting a rise out of him. Feeling Hongjoong's arousal pressing tightly into your abdomen while watching Wooyoung's excitement grow was wreaking havoc on your mind and body. The dampness between your legs had grown so obviously that Hongjoong chuckled when his hand dipped between your thighs after each slap. "You like having Wooyoung watch don't you, Y/N?" When you didn't answer, he laughed again and glanced up at Wooyoung as he continued speaking to you. "Don't worry, I think he likes watching you, too." His free hand dipped to your cheek, caressing it softly with the pad of his thumb as he leaned in closer to your face. "You've been good, Y/N. Last one, okay?" You nodded, a whimper sounding in your throat as your hands tightly gripped his thigh beneath you. He rubbed gentle circles against your ass before lifting his hand, letting it crack harder than it had before which caused you to cry out in pain, body jerking underneath him which elicited a small groan from the man. "Mmn..twenty-four," Hongjoong said, gently soothing the sting with his own aching hand, fingers dancing between your thighs each time his hand circled low. Wooyoung was momentarily ignored as Hongjoong began to praise you. "What a good girl you were for me, Y/N. But you won't be getting in trouble again, will you? You've learned your lesson?" You were breathless, panting in his lap as you nodded weakly in response. "Y-Yes, Captain. I won't do it again.." you mumbled, letting your full weight rest in his lap. His hand had stopped rubbing circles across your ass and had now begun to settle between your thighs which made your breath catch in your throat. It was then that Hongjoong acknowledged Wooyoung again. "Since our brave Y/N took the punishment for the both of you, it's only fair you help me reward her for being so good, don't you think Wooyoung? After all, you didn't think I'd let you watch and listen without doing anything, did you? You need to make it up to her." Wooyoung blinked between the two of you before he settled on Hongjoong, nodding quickly. "O-Of course. I owe her that much," he replied as he crossed the space between you. Hongjoong jerked his chin towards Wooyoung with a grin. "On your knees, then." Woo did as he was told and Hongjoong helped you sit up off of his lap gently, guiding you to lie back against the couch before he grabbed your hips and slid your ass towards the edge of the couch. Hongjoong grinned, guiding Wooyoung between your parted thighs before straightening up behind him, arms crossed over his chest. "Mm, happy birthday to me."

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