I Will Remember You(Part 2)

I will remember you(Part 2)

Extraordinary you!Au x Zombie Apocalypse!Au

Summary: The world was damned. A deadly virus going around turning everyone in zombies? Yeah, the world was definitely damned. But that was the least of his problems right now. Time was slipping by him..he had been hearing weird sounds. He decided that he was going crazy. Until a certain someone appeared and told him not to worry because apparently this all a fiction, more specifically a comic?

Words: 9k

AN: The next thing I want to put out is a Seungmin fanfic because I think people overlook him so much! I will try to organize my thoughts and put it out shortly! I hope you enjoy my work!

Part 1

Comic? Character? Me?

He shook his head, shaking the idea off him.  There was absolutely no way. Thoughts were swimming around his head, making him feel light headed and dizzy. Was it really possible for all this to be a lie? He felt silly just by thinking it. The sunlight warming his skin felt real, the delightful laughter filling the classroom felt real, he felt real. Frustrated signs left him again.

Two days already passed since Y/N revealed to him the crazy shit that she thought the world consisted of. He recalled their conversation with disdain... 

  "Wow you are even more fucking crazy than I am"he exclaimed, beliwered. He took a step back, widening the distance between them. Who knows maybe a zombie bit her and all this were side effects.

   "Maybe I am" she beamed happily, repeatedly patting the spot next to her expecting him to sit with her. He raised an eyebrow only to meet the same annoyingly cheery expression, he signed and caved. He slowly lowered himself to the ground, it was still warm from the setting sun above them he noticed. 

"So do you want to learn more?"she inquired as she was talking with me about the weather ,hands busy brushing through her thick and tangled locks.

   "Enlight me" he taunted her as he scanned the yard. He hadn't been here in months. From the level ground everything was way bigger than he remembered. Seeing it from up close was a reminder of the old times and how fucked up was his current situation.

   "They won't come" she stated simply, still running her fingers through her brown locks. Total at ease in this environment. "I lounge here often enough. Never met a functioning zombie here"

   "How come? Your writer doesn't fancy gardens? Oh!Oh! Are the zombies allergic?!" Irony was evident in his tone "That would explain soo much!"

   "Ha ha..No, in the shadow they just...exist. They are not chasing us,not trying to eat us. I can just simply past one and it won't do anything. Just trust me"she shrugged, laying down to absorb as much sun as she could.

   "I don't. Not even a little bit" he bit back and she laughed.

   If he was honest that moment right there seemed straight out of a book. She laying there laughter filling the air, the sun setting behind them showering them in golden light, the breeze blowing just enough to feel refreshed and light. The flowers, even though they were dying like everything on this planet, still smelled wonderful. It was beautiful.. too bad he cared so little for it.

   "So you're saying that this is a comic book? And what's the plot?" he snickered as he laid down as well. He normally would be so alert and ready to spring at any moment. But seeing her lazing around and being comfortable, made him more lazy as well. Her serenity calmed him oddly enough.

    She shifted to her side, one arm supporting her weight to take a better look at him. She aspect him deeply, as if she was deciding to tell him a secret or not. He didn't know what expression he was wearing, maybe contempt or boredom, but she seemed to find whatever she was looking for. "Well, the zombie apocalypse trope is pretty obvious."

     "Oh really? I hadn't noticed that!"he scoffed

     "Surprise!" She joked back, an ironic laugh leaving her "other than that.. you know the new girl? She is a spy from an opposite camp. The government is scavenging for survivors, the catch? They have limited space. So the smarter thing to do is eliminate the competition, according to them at least. Maniacs all of them if you ask me. Soo, they send her over to deal with us from the inside. Pretty stereotypical, right?"

       His mouth fell open and his eyebrows flew to his hairline. Spy? The government? Every thought he was ready to voice in an rather rude way stayed there, catch in his throat "You are joking..right?"he eventually uttered.

      "Wish I was believe me"she signed.

      He didn't say anything for a while then he just stood up wordlessly and left.

And he had avoided her ever since like she was the plague.

   He had to organize his thoughts. Provided she was telling the truth..how could he prevent the invasion of an enemy camp? How could he make the government pick them? How could he stop the girl? He tried to find a perfect solution only to come up empty.

   He spend many sleepless nights. Okay three to be exact! But he needed the sleep! He had things to do and errands to run but the thing is wherever he went, he kept seeing her. Like fate was playing some twisted game against him. He was helping out with weaponry? She was there. He was keeping watch? She was releasing him of his duties. Heck she even slept two classrooms away he discovered as he went to sleep yesterday and she called out good night to him, making him jump out of his skin and dart inside.

   He was currently in the weaponry area, also known as the janitor's closet and the benches outside of it, as it held the most tools that were of use to them. His unwounded hand served as a painful reminder of that fact. As Felix was tying the rope around two broken broomsticks to serve as a spear that he had no experience handling. The many times he had accidentally sprung it upon random people near him confirmed that so his preference for knives and close range weaponry was clear but as a good fellow he helped. As he was finishing honing the weapon, he realized that she was there too. Brown hair pilled on top of her head in a way too messy bun, white T shirt with patches of dirty stuck on it, clearly stating that she was pulling her weight around the camp and oversized denim jeans shorts that was a clearly bad choice for someone that had to run at the drop of a hat. Was she around that often before? How come he didn't noticed her?

   As he glanced at her, he suddenly met her stare. She blinked slowly at him as a smile spread on her face, a greeting. He immediately turned his head the other way, flustered to be caught looking so obviously at her.

    Instead he focused on the craft in his hands, tying the ropes with way more vigor than necessary. With a few more tugs he was done.

       "Hey-!" He started and paused, barely catching himself. What was his name again? He racked his brain trying to come up with an answer. He had been around this kid 6 months now, they slept at the same classroom and hang out frequently together after a long day's work, so it was not acceptable not to remember his name.

       "Can't remember, can ya?" A low voice whispered to his ear."I am curious though. Whose names do you remember?"

 Upon feeling the low voice on his ear the boy swirled towards her. Of course she made her way from across the closet to sit with him, just so she can spite him.

    He didn't answered her, just squinted his eyes at her. She was getting on his nerves really. All the crazy talk didn't help his situation and now she was popping up everywhere.She was an easy target to get out all his frustration and ire."What the fuck?"

    She titled her head looking at him."You know in the comics you are made out to be such a sweetheart. From up close you are more like an asshole"

    "Fuck off then."he shrugged, curiosity peeked. Sweetheart? Him? That writer ought to get his eyes checked. He maybe had more of baby face, but that meant nothing. It was the freckles, he decided.

     "Nah, assholes are more my type" he let out a huff at her flirty commend. It had been months, a year top, since he was last hit on and she was cute. Too bad she was batshit crazy. "You can't remember his name because he doesn't have one" she resumed.

     "What?"he questioned ,startled.

     "He is an extra, unlike you he doesn't have a set up. He doesn't need a name, he is just there to fill the empty space." She said picking dirty from her nails.

     "Everyone has a name" he refuted, leaning towards her to whisper in her ear. If someone heard them talking they would be deemed as lunatics and  thrown out to the zombies together.

      "Name someone besides your friend group and me"she tutted.

      "Hyunjin,Minho, Seungmin..you want me to continue?" He sassed, relaxing more on the bench he had stationed himself.

      "You don't consider them part of your group?"she asked, an odd expression on her face.

      "We're not that close" he simply answered. They seemed that way? I mean, sure they hang out but if he was made to chose someone to go to with a secret Changbin and Jisung would be it for him. They were the most understanding and kind people he knew.

      "Huh" she seemed lost in her thoughts.

      "What?" He asked again

      "Nothing"she answered "Anyway, don't you want me to show you the proof you asked for? If you come with me tonight I will show you"

      He was suspicious. Things always got messy when she appeared "Where are we going?"

      "To show you the comic,of course" she smiled mischievously.

     "But where?"

     "You'll see"

~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~

    When Felix opened his eyes darkness greeted him.

     Of course it had to be in the middle of the night,he grumbled. Even though he didn't like the events taking place right now he quietly got up, taking extra care as to not wake up Jisung or any of the others sleeping soundly on the floor. The old oil lamp provided the only source of light to help him make his way to the front door. But if he prided himself on something it was how agile he was. Minho once compared him to a cat and even though he would like something more..regal he appreciated the compliment.

     Tippy toeing to the front between the masses of bodies was a piece of cake and soon Felix was closing the door behind him and walking down the hallway. The halls were totally empty, which was an understatement. It still didn't sit right with him to see them empty, though. They usually were filled with ex-students talking and laughing, now the large windows casted an airily glow that creeped him out. He shook his head, deciding to hurry. As soon as he hit the last step he saw you laying down on top of the desk, mere meters from the patched up door that almost went down the other day.

      "Do you do anything besides laying down?" He said announcing his presence as he went to stand over her head, flicking her lightly on the forehead

      She immediately opened her eyes, hands flying to the spot he hit and craned her neck to look at him. "I lay down as often as I can. I don't know about you, but I am not athlete material and this damn world keeps me in my toes"

      He hummed softly. "Where are going?"

      She righted herself on the desk and hoped down, bouncing energetically on her feet. "Follow me, grumpy pants"

      She made a bee line to the window on the right side of the room, opening it and jumping outside. Fortunately the height was not too much for them, so they easily landed in the back area of the school, back when he first caught a glimpse of her.

      "Now we have to climb through that window"she pointed to a ground floor window, similar to the one they just exited. "Once we are in,we just take the stairs to the second floor and turn left and into the library we go!"she word-vomited, unable to stop herself it seemed. She was way too talkative for such late hour.

      "Do you always talk that much?"he wondered as be followed her. She ignored him as she drew closer to the window. She stood still for a second,before muttering something under her breath. She started to walk away from the wall, skipping down the back yard, a loud noice was heard and soon after she come back with a chair in her arms.

      "I swear every time!" She exaggerated.

      "What?"he asked, as she placed the chair under the half open window.

      She stepped on the chair, pushing the heavy window open bit by bit. "When a scene take place, everything that happened on shadow goes back to their original place, so I have to keep carrying the chair back here. It's really annoying " she glanced at him, noticing his confused appearance and explained. "For example, let's say you injury yourself in the shadow.. it won't appear in the scene because the writer didn't mean to write that but if it happens on the scene it's permanent" the window was completely open by the time she finished her sentence,giving her the chance to jump inside.

      Once she jumped into the building she stuck her head outside and shouted "Your turn!"

      So he injured himself in the shadow when he scratched himself on the nails? Was that why the wound disappeared overnight?He climbed on the rusty old chair and easily followed her steps. In mere seconds he stood beside her in the opposite side of the school.

      He was starstruck. The school was.. pristine. That was the exact word that described it. The little furniture that the hall held, such as bookcases and a couple of lockers, were in their normal positions -completely dust and damage free. From the side of his eye he could see the cafeteria were the same applied. The lunch tables and all of their chairs were stacked neatly against each other like waiting for thousand of kids to sit on them and happily eat away the awful cafeteria lunch.

      She was examinating him as he looked around "Weird,huh?" She asked him, his confusion and awe all over his face.

      "Why is the place like that? It is overrunned by zombies. It should have been total chaos in here" he asked as he turned around and around to catch all the little details.

      "Because the writer didn't have a need to write it destroyed. My guess is that he needed a model of a school and that is why that part exists. He technically doesn't need to write this part, but it would be weird not to exist and ta da!!" She exclaimed, jumping light and using flashy jazz hands.

      "Huh.." he marveled, coming back to her side.

      "Ready?" He nodded at her and they started to climb the stairs quietly.

      He had a million things he wanted to ask, still only half believing her. He looked at her back and decided to speak up "How did you figured out?That it was safe I mean?"

      She reflected on the question and answered "It was a month in the comic, after the virus spread. I started to hear noises, time flew right by and I started to get strong headaches..Much like you did."she cocked her head in his direction as she naturally took a left turn to head to the library. "Then it started coming up to me. The truth. Memories. Flashes from the past. And that was it."

      He paused, legs feeling weaker than usual. He grabbed her arm before she could open the double door that lead to the library."What do you mean flashes from the past?"

      She looked at him over her shoulder, a secretive smile on her face "You didn't think that was my first rodeo, right?" She said voice enigmatic and dark, as she pushed the door open.

      The library stayed the same. That was his first thought. The room had a high ceiling making it appear enormous,tall rows of bookcases stretched all over the place, making almost like a labyrinth. The wooden floor and cozy little spots made it more comfortable and warm despite it's intimidating size. In the middle of the room was a small circle, where students could study and lazy around. It was like a day hadn't passed.

      Y/N flew from beside him and headed over the fiction section, searching for something. He followed her as he did most of the evening. She had started talking before he even reached her.

      "The comic book appears here every time..Not the same place everything time though. I tried to take it with me but it won't stay. It just disappears. It's like a treasure hunt every time!" She said, giggling. She was passing rows and rows of books, making sure her hand is brushing every one of them.

      "You said that is not your first rodeo. What does that mean?"he asked carefully.

      Without pausing her stride she answered "I have been in other comics before, the writer likes to use characters from his past books. Lazy bastard. I have been in a college comics. In a mafia one too! Was never the lead though " she murmured the last part.

      Meanwhile Felix didn't know what to say. So this meant she had lived at least 3 lives before this one?

     "So have we met before?" He wondered.

     "Don't think so..I would have definitely remembered you"she stated, making him flush. Red splotches were sprawled all over his face and neck he was sure. It wasn't that he hadn't heard a compliment before, but the way she said she would surely remember him without much explanation hinting he was special enough to be remembered.. he was strangely touched.

      "Here it is!" She exclaimed, jumping up, steadying herself on the lowest shelf and stretching to catch a thin book.She looked at him and cocked her head to the studying area in the middle of the library.

      She reached the desk that was near them and made herself comfortable on top of the desk, instead of a chair. She placed the book beside her and waved him closer. He took a seat in the chair in front at the book and looked at it, a snort leaving him immediately.

      "Deadly love?" He questioned, reading the title.

    "I Know!!!"she yelped, throwing her hands in the air.

    It was small, barely larger than his hand and it's color was black with splatters of red. Blood, he realized. He slowly opened the first page and sketches of familiar faces greeted him. The drawing of Hyunjin and the new girl was the first thing that caught his eye. A few notable info under their sketches, along with their names. In the page next to them he saw his name, along with his friend's and acquaintance's names. He ran his fingers over his own drawing.

    Lee Felix. 18. Friend of Hyunjin, the favorite of the group, a total sweetheart.

    That was it. His whole being summed up in those meaningless words. Rage filled him but he clenched his teeth and suppressed it. Now wasn't the time for that. He turned a page and an other page and an another and an another. Words had left him, numbness had taken over.    

     He turned his head towards Y/N, waiting for some guidance or comforting words. He was not sure what look he was displaying but as soon as he turned her hand found home in his shoulder rubbing it soothingly.

    "It's gonna be okay." She muttered voice light and warm, just like that time at the roof. He signed as he brought his hands on his face, rubbing it roughly before regaining control.

    He continued to flip the pages, his fingers brushing against the scenes in which he took part in. He could recognize quite a few events, the scenes which contained the romance between hyunjin and his girl he did not care to read. But what caught his attention was the scenes with you and from the enemy camp. You weren't in many scenes and those you were in, he almost didn't recognize you. You always wore a sneer and pretty much bullying the fuck out of the poor main lead. It was a struck difference between the you, who he saw in the paper and the you, who was looking at him right now. As for enemy camp... the whole plan laid before him and he didn't know what to do with this information.

    "We have to tell someone, do something!"  he protested, glancing up to your figure that was reading along. You were unusually quiet, a far away look in your brown eyes that unsettled him greatly.

     "What would you like to do?"Y/N asked, leaning her weight on her hands that were against the desk casually.

      "We have to tell Chan! We have to kick her out of her and move our camp!"he yelled, unable to hold his temper in check.

       "Very valid points. Do it" she challenged, a airy smile on her face. She suddenly leaned closer to him,face very close to his person, from her place on the desk she looked almost menacing. She almost looked like her book self.

        "Why do I sense a but?"he groaned, exaggerated at this point.

        "They won't listen. You could tell them everything and they won't by the next scene. It is an unfortunate catch of the comic." She hopped down from the desk and she stated circling around him. "Okay, quiz time!"

        He looked at her with a look that said really, but she nodded.

        "Shadow!"

        He let out a long breath and kicked lightly his feet like a fretful child but answered her question nonetheless. "We have free will, can do whatever we want"

        She pumped her fists in the air and with a voice of a bad show presenter she shouted "Correct! What is the noise you hear?"

        "Umm.." he got nothing to show there.

        "Eeech! Incorrect! That the sound of a scene starting. Haven't you noticed you are saying things you don't mean and want when you hear the sounds?" She grabbed the book from his hands and and flipped through stopping at a familiar scene."This is  the scene where Hyunjin tells you about his feelings. You said that you are not close with him, but here you are consoling him. Why? Because the writer made you do it."

         Felix stared the scene before him. It was true that he cared little about such things and he didn't understand the need he had that moment to console him. Was it truly everything a lie? Was such a puppet to the writer?

         "Don't be sad Lixie! We have each other now!" She said throwing an arm around his shoulders, rubbing her cheek against him.

          He right away unwinded her arm from his person and pushed her lightly away. "I don't know you."

          "We can get to know each other. Something tells me that we will be great friends." she beamed at him, still not shying away from him.

          "Why are you so happy all the time? We are ,like, dying"he wondered, making himself comfortable on the chair.

          "My set up is a minor villain as you saw. I am always a bitch on the scenes I am in. Got tired of frowning all the time. You probably won't remember me in the scenes but I always bully the new girl, I am a lackey to Mina.. you know short black hair ? Frowning all the time? Loud as fuck?"

          "Yeah I somewhat remember her..but not you.."he mumbled the last part, hoping she wouldn't hear.

          "Don't sweat it, I am an extra.I am even lucky to get a name" she cackled settling down again,this time beside him."So what you wanna do now? Should I bring other comics?" She asked hopefully.

          He though about arguing with her, but he had nothing better to do."Let me come with you. I don't trust your taste"

          "Romance not your taste Lixie?" She teasingly mocked, looking him through her lashes.

          He rolled his eyes and made his way to the fiction section.

          She giggled and followed him.

~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~

      The next few weeks were way more fun than the 6 months he spend here.

      He was way calmer now that he was sure he wasn't losing it. He also was more calm with the whole zombie situation. In the past he jumped at the slightest noise, he was ready to bolt at the drop of a hat. He was scared for his life. Now he laid at the roof, gazing at the horizon. It was funny how things changed.

       Over the past weeks he had gotten a lot closer with Y/N. Unwillingly, he would always claim and she would always smile. During the lunch breaks they would always sneak to the library to lazy around and read some comics. They tried to turn on some devices, Y/N insisting that some may work. A waste of time that was. But he learned that she enjoyed some gaming back in the days, not as much as he did but it would be nice to play together. He wondered what Fortnite would be with her, probably a lot of shouting from him and uncontrollable giggles from her as she messed up. They would always brave the other side of the school as well, finding a lot of lost things in the process. He had discovered a ton of clothes laying around, knifes laying around in the kitchen of the cafeteria, which he tried to sneak over to the other side. All in vain as they were gone by the morning. Y/N had discovered an old radio in the library, probably older than both of them combined, and she had the damn thing blasting all day long. He had tried to throw that blasted thing away only for it to show up in it's place the next noon. While Y/N was happy..him? Not so much... especially cause she turned it even higher in volume, dancing around rhythmically to its beats, causing him a headache, which she quoted was totally deserved. They had discovered cards and board games as well, making the time pass easier. She had found some old pencils and markers in some drawer and had insisted that he would be her model, saying it was her dream once to become an artist. One look at the final result had Felix reaching over and tearing apart the caricature she had drawn, not minding her cries of protest."It gives me the creeps"he had said to her and he was being truthful! She wasn't cut to be an artist in the slightest, after that attempt she had for shaken drawing in favor of other skills.

         A loud noise shook him out of his thoughts. He slowly turned around to see a familiar face enter the rooftop.

       "Hey Mina..I can handle your shift for today..I know you are tired these days, why don't you take a rest?" Y/N sweetly proposed, leaning forward with earnest eyes pined on the other girl.

       "Y/N!! I kinda am, now that you mentioned it" Mina said stretching her sore muscles. "You are such a sweetheart for thinking of me. Thanks dear" she said heading towards the door,sending a flying kiss her way on the way. "Well!..Have fun!"

       "I intend to" Y/N said, wolfishly. She turned to him, already wearing a chesire smile on her face. "Oh Lixie! Look what I have here!" She extended her hand towards him. An pack of Uno cards in her grasp.

       He titled his head and paused. "You agreed to change shifts just to paly Uno with me?" He asked, incredulously.

       "What can I say? I was bored" she shrugged, having already crossed the distance and foldings the cards. "You wanna go first or should I?"

         He rolled his eyes as he settled down as well. "You go"

         "I must warn you though. I am a pro"she challenged, raising her eyebrow.

           "We shall see"he returned.

         Three games later and he still had to won. He threw his head back, a scream bubbling in his throat. "You-you are cheating!"he accused, aggressively pointing at her.

       "No I am not! Now take your six cards like a man!" She protested, eyes sparkling with victory.

            He groaned as he went to draw six more cards- 

         Blink.

         Swoosh!

 "Okay guys, here's the plan."

     A couple of students were gathered in the teacher's office. He couldn't get used to this feeling now that he knew what it is. A scene was starting. His gaze darted around taking everything in. He recognized several faces, Chan's, Minho's, Mina's, Spy girl's and finally yours. You looked so different now though. You had that look he only catch a glimpse of in the comic book. Five minutes before your eyes were glistening, you were laughing carefree as you were whooping his ass at Uno. Now your eyes were focused and aggressive, a frown marrying your pretty face, your hair pulled back and your arms crossed. You were ready for battle. Then he realized why. Of course. The supplies. Minho mentioned that they were running dangerously low.

       "We will go to the second floor today. Our goal is mainly canned food. If you can find packaged bread, it's fine too. Y/N and Mina you take the first floor, we have scanned it already but see if you can find some more medicine." Chan explained. Short and to the point as always. "You ready? All got your tools?" He received nods from all around. 

       Before he could say anything or catch your gaze-

       Swoosh!

     They stood before the market already. He wanted to turn and look at you, but his face stayed turned straight, his knuckles turning white from his fierce grip on his knife.

        Chan turned and pointed to the entrance. Words were a threat right now, not a friend. All together they started to enter the building. It once was a market place filled with everything you could imagine from painkillers to furniture, now it was all past glory. Half the lights were shut or shattered making the place plunged in darkness, the rows of shelves were half-empty or cluttered from the many hands that went through them. Many products were on the floor, some opened and thrown away in it's previous owner's hurry, making the stench so strongly that a few of them had to place a cloth over their nose. Quickly they ascended the stairs, his vision of the girls downstairs gone. He had a bad feeling, he didn't want to be there for a second more but his feet wouldn't listen to him. So even though he wanted to stop and run the other way, he continued searching rows and rows of products.

       Four minutes in, he had his bag full and was ready to go. Now he thought about it, this must be the work of the writer- a never ending of supplies abandoned super market. But the run here was too uneventful. He tapped Chan on the shoulder, jerking his head towards the staircase. The older male nodded as well and hand-gestured the rest of the team to follow. When they were in the middle of the staircase a loud noise alerted them and the inhuman grunt that followed filled them with even more dread. Running as fast and noiseless as they could, they made bee line to the exit. That's when the thought popped up in his head.

       No! Y/N is still in there! He willed his feet to stop running, to turn the other way but they failed him miserably. His breath started coming quicker than normal, his palms sweating. He had to find a way in! But the damn scene wasn't ending! From the side of his eye, he saw a lone petite figure darting towards the direction of the other girls. But that was the last thing he saw before his traitorous feet carried him outside. As soon as they were outside Chan shouted" The girls" and started to make his way inside yet again but Minho, ever the strategist, stopped him by shaking his head.

        "It's too late now Chan"he whispered, already closing the large doors sealing them inside, making them safe and sealing the girls' fate.

       No..no! This couldn't be happening, would he lose her? He couldn't lose her... Panic choked him, tears sprung to his eyes and his damned feet still wouldn't move! He closed his eyes, shoulders dropping waiting for the known sound to end the scene so he could fall apart.

       "Hurry! Come on! Come on!" A feminine voice yelled, sounds of feet stomping to them was the only other sound be heard.

       "You escaped!" Chan said, slumping with relief.

     He turned to look at them.

     All of you reached them,out of breath and clutching each other tightly as you answered like one, but the noise was too loud for them to hear. Felix couldn't believe the relief that he felt. You were there, albeit dirty,sweaty and nearly slumped over from the exhaustion but you were there-safe.

      "I saw the zombie going to them! So I threw an cup or whatever that was near me to the opposite side. The zombie got distracted by the sounds and forgot about us. We heard the door closing so we hid in the back room and we escaped from the window there." Spy Girl said.

      "Thank you..You saved us"Mina said, you nodding repeatedly from beside her, still visibly trembling.

 "I did what anyone would do" she replied, rocking on her heels with a big smile on her face.

       Swoosh!

 Felix felt like he could finally breath. He couldn't wait until they were alone. "Y/N!" He dived immediately to her,cradling her face in his hands. After a good look on her face, he run his hands across her trying to find fault. "You okay?Are you hurt?" His hands roamed all over her, not wanting to hurt her but still wanting to check. They settled on her forearms shaking her lightly. "Y-Y/N?" He asked again when he didn't get an answer. He grinded his teeth, getting impatient.

      "I am fine Lixie." She willed herself to respond. But he saw her, her skin was ashen and her eyes filled with unreleased tears. He wanted to comfort her first, but his feelings got the best of him.

         "What the fuck! You could have gotten killed! Why didn't you tried to run?!" He spatted at her, tightening his hands on her for a moment before letting her go. He stayed close, too close for comfort but not close enough for his. He run his hands through his hair, tugging it roughly. He couldn't stay still, body filled with adrenaline.

           She lowered her head, staring at her feet. Totally avoiding eye contact. "For the same reason you didn't come back to help" she whispered back. That, right there, was a stab right at his heart. He kept quiet out of frustration. He wanted to help, he sweared he did but his feet were nailed to the ground!

        She looked at him through her lashes, shoulder hitting him gently. "I am fine. Really"

She offered a smile, more shaky and uncertain than her usually cheeky a d mischievous one, but he would take what he could get.

      Wordlessly he snaked his hand over her shoulders, cuddling her to his side. He couldn't get over this feeling that washed over him, he needed her near right now. Only she could make the bad feeling go away.

         "Eeeh... shall we go back now that everyone is here?" Chan proposed. Everyone eagerly nodded their consent and rushed to get away from the store.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~

     They barely made it inside when everyone flew off, the scene no longer binding them together until they were the only ones in the hall. Felix tugged her hand, that he now realized he never had let go of, cocking his head towards the window. Y/N paused for a moment before nodding and following him.

      After helping her get out of the window, he went to find the stupid chair that kept disappearing.It was out of habit now, the drill between them known for a while. They climbed in silently and made their way up together. He didn't like the silence, he got so used to her talking a mile a minute. Now she was out of words it seemed, and that alone scared him. He let go of her hand that he had grabbed yet again without his knowledge and pushed the double doors open. The library seemed especially inviting today. Warm sunlight showering every corner of the place, wooden floors almost shinning in response to the exposure. They had left several pieces of clothing over the time but they kept disappearing so the place was too clean for his taste. He ushered her in the middle and made her take a sit in a chair in front of him. He awkwardly crouched before her wanting to look at her.

       "Hey" he whispered, reaching a hand to pull her hair away from her face. He placed his hand against her cheek turning her head lightly to him. She was still shaken up. His other hand found way to her thigh rubbing soothing circles to calm her down. "You are okay now Y/N"

          Her only response was a nod as she stared off to space. She looked at him, but not really.

        "Do you wanna talk about it?" He continued, still running soothingly circles over her leg. 

        She swallowed thickly before opening her mouth. "I thought I was done for Felix. I t-thought my time was u-up." She said, still looking off to space.

       "Look at me" Felix whispered, guiding her face to his. He placed his forehead against her and closed his eyes, hoping this would ground her as much it grounded him."You are here. With me. Nothing bad happened. You are here"he repeated, feeling her rigid body calm a bit, shoulders slumping and hearing her repeat "with you" made something snap in him.

       Maybe it was the fear he felt today at the thought that he lost her , maybe it was the thought what would he do in this place without her and her company keeping him warm or maybe it was how beautiful she looked with her flushed cheeks and red bitten lips but he felt that if he didn't feel them on his right that second he would explode.

          "Y/N..."he breathed out. Maybe it was his tone or the way his breath caught up she seemed to realize what he wanted. Because now that her watery eyes opened they met his longing stare and fleeted down to his half open lips.

        He hesitated as he cradled her face, angling her face to his own. But the bashful smile on her face and her already closed eyes spurred him to lean forward and close the distance between their lips. He gently pressed his mouth to her, just a gentle warm touch. She  tasted fresh like running water and something entire her and he was immediately sold. Their lips brushed against each other slowly, dancing to their own tempo until he felt her tongue on his lip, asking him to deepen their kiss, which he gladly accepted. They mouths classed perfectly, her hands were embracing him pulling him closer and he was in turn caressing every inch he could get hold of. Her cold hands gently touched his neck and chin causing him to shudder and her to smile. She broke away to take a much needed breath and looked at him, wearing that heart-stopping smile. She suddenly jumped into his arms, making him lose balance and fall to the hard wood floor. Any other day he would have been pissed, now he laughed wholeheartedly as he trapped her in his embrace . She signed with content and hide her face in the crook of his neck.

      "Can we stay like that for a while?"

      "As long as you would like,love"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~

    A few more weeks passed filled with laughter and secret rendezvous. Their days were mostly spend in the library chilling. They would lazy around ,reading or playing cards. Felix quickly learned that you were too good of a player. Experience- you claimed from the days were you would gamble away in the mafia world. You had also gotten your hands upon some crafts books you wanted to try drawing skills long forgotten,but the result was hundreds paper cranes floating around the library. He had tried to join you but after 3 disfigured cranes, he decided that he had had enough choosing instead to lay there as you crafted away. His favourite past time thought would be the time you spend in each other's embrace,kissing away the anxiety and loving each other. Funny, he thought, I didn't think I would be as open to affection as Y/N was. There was not a minute he wasn't touching you in some way that would be either a arm thrown over your shoulders or placed on your waist or simply his lips against yours. You were inseparable.

     You didn't even separate in sleep. Y/N would always end up in his blanket, either she was there talking with him and his friends and she would simply doze off there or she would be in the door with her own blanket waiting for someone to let her in, just like an oversized puppy. The first few times Changbin and Jisung threw some questioning looks at him but after a few days they welcomed you in just as often. They even remembered your name after using so much time in the shadow.

      Right now you were laying side by side on the library floor, the sun warming your figures, almost lulling you to sleep.At least one of you.

     "Lixiee" a whiny voice penetrates his eardrum. He ignored said voice with the hope of catching some sleep."Lixie I know you're not sleeping." She said drawing closer, half laying on top of him 

         "How?"he said not bothering to open his eyes. He was so relaxed right now that every small movement was a promise of pain.

         "You snore when you sleep" she sassed back, now poking at his ribs.

        "I do not snore"he protested lazily,finally turning his head to look at her laying in his arms all snuggly and adorable.

        "Made you look through"she said, playing with his T shirt sleeve. 

          He half laughed half signed. He laid his head back down staring blankly at the ceiling. "What you wanted?" he asked, raising an arm to caress her hair.

         "I found a book-" he groaned without hearing the rest "you didn't even let me finish!" She jokingly protested, mirth dancing in her brown eyes.

          He stopped faking his death to let her finish her sentence. "I found a book about dancing-" on que he started to groan louder.

      "Ohh come on! We didn't held any dances before this whole fiasco started"she protested, crossing her arms and adoring a pout on her face.

     Felix looked at her being all pouty for a dance. He turned on his side, jutting out his arms to support his weight. "What kind of dance?" he asked out of curiosity.

  Her eyes immediately light up. She turned the book to him showing off a page of a pair-

"Waltzing!" She cried out, grinning

      He looked at the page. He could waltz.. it was just staying in place and twirling her around. His eyes fleeted to hers, watching her practically vibrate. "Okay" he agreed.

     She let out a small cry, kissing him swiftly and darted from her seat on the floor in search of something. A beat later he heard a melody playing in the background. The radio.       A melancholic yet passionate tone was swirling in the air now, the sun was hitting just right and Y/N approaching him with graceful strides and a sweet smile on her face made Felix feel fuzzy and warm inside.

    "Can I have this dance, kind sir?" She lightly bowed, stretching her hand out to him. She looked at him through her lashes, eyes filled with stars and smile with mischief.

    He let out a happy puff of air "Well of course" he stood up and pulled her close, placing his hand on her waist. She stepped even closer,not an inch separating their bodies, placed her hand on his shoulder and whispered "To my left". And they started waltzing. Their first circle was kind of awkward as they didn't know what exactly they were doing, but as the second circle rolled in they were gliding across the wooden floor more smoothly. The sound of Waltz no. 2 that filling the air covered their delighted giggles and accompanied their longing gazes. 

    She never looked more beautiful than right now, he thought. Darks eyes locked on his, never breaking contact, her hands that were always running a few degrees colder than his,were pulling him closer,now thrown over his shoulder playing with his hair. Her own glossy dark hair were swaying around her, caressing him as they moved around. She looked adorable with her white tee and great sweatpants that she clutched like an evening gown. He was beyond happy in this moment. The world may be damned, but he felt a new kind of hope now.

    He suddenly grabbed her by the waist , hosting her up in the air and twirled her around. She was startled for a moment , before throwing her head back and let out a loud laugh. He carefully set her down and as the song drew to its peak and great ending, he dipped her gently.

    Her brown eyes were half closed, her pupils dilated and lips half open inviting him in. He dipped even further and closed the distance between them kissing her with all he got. All the emotion he felt in that moment convened in the pressing of his lips and tightening of his hands around her.

      He eventually let go of her lips to get some necessary air into his lungs. Eyes still closed as savoring the moment ,they righted their postures. They didn't let go of each other right away, just stood there gazing at each other's eyes. She tip toed to press a lingering kiss on his lips "That was fun" she said, rocking back and forth in his arms  "we should do it more often"

     "As you wish, my lady" he whispered leaned in for more sweet kisses.

~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~

Swoosh!

As soon as Felix gained consciousness he was sure of 3 things. Firstly, that awful sound in his ears is the sound of a scene starting, secondly, even if he couldn't move his head to check, he was sure you weren't beside him sleeping as he last remembered and thirdly, something very bad was happening.

     "Guys! We got to go! We are under attack! Get up, we got to go!" An alarmed Hyunjin that moments before burst into the room, shouted, shaking unconscious students awake with force.

      "Who is attacking us?!" Changbin asked in a horrified stupor. 

       Hyunjin threw a glance over his shoulder to a girl half hidden behind him."I will explain later. Now we got to hurry!" He said already taking off to wake the others.He unwillingly got up and followed suit. He ran to the closest classrooms, waking up other unsuspecting students all the while trying to catch a glimpse of you. Panic had taken over everyone,the entire school was up and running but that was nothing until they heard the sounds of engines running. He threw himself against the nearest window and watch with horror as enormous car decorated with spikes and wire netting tore it's way through the front gates, letting the enemy in as well as dozens upon dozens of zombies.

A arm grabbed his own and for a moment he thought that the scene was over and you were grabbing him trying to get him away from the horrors. But the hope fell through as Changbin shouted his name and for him to focus. He continued running not knowing where he was going. He was starting to panic as well he didn't know what would they do and more importantly he didn't know where you where. None of the students he helped were you. He knew that your classroom when you didn't sleep with him was on this floor so logically you would be safe..

     But the panic he felt before was nothing compared to the one he was feeling now as he heard the screams that accompanied the gunshots. He exchanged a petrified look with Changbin and they run."What is happening?" He screamed, feeling helpless.

    "I don't know man, just run!"he yelled, clearly as overwhelmed as he felt.

 "Felix! Changbin!" A yelp was heard from behind them. As soon as they turned they spotted Chan running to them. "An enemy camp has invaded ours. They have guns and they are killing everyone that crosses their eyes. Hyunjin told to gather you all in the roof that-that the government is going to pick us up,that they are looking for survivors!Try to avoid anyone strange looking...and don't go on the first floor.Please" he said.The next second he threw himself at us, clutching us tight. "I will see you on the roof. But... "He trailed off looking as if he couldn't keep in the tears.

     "Go. We will be right behind you" Changbin said returning the hug. Felix clutching him just as tight. He looked at them one last time and sped off.

Swoosh!

Finally!

Felix was ready to take off. He had wasted precious time already in this fucking bullshit, he cared enough for Chan to appreciate this small moment, but he needed to find you. He took a total of 3 steps before an arm wrapped around his.

    "What?" he snapped, almost seeing red.

Changbin didn't move an inch."Where the fuck you going Felix?"

      "I have to find Y/N"he said trying to break free from the boy"I-I have to find her!"he shouted

       "We have to get to the roof"Changbin said, determinated. Felix managed to shrugged him off, adrenaline coursing through his veins.

        "You go first. I..I can't leave without her Binnie" he begged him, the desperation on his face evident. The older boy took a step back, a stern expression on his face that Felix hasn't associated with him. "Don't fight a losing battle" he warned "I will wait for you upstairs. I will wait for you man" he finally said , quickly hugging him once again and turned around, disappearing in the dark.

    As soon as Changbin left his sight , he run. He jogged all around the place, hiding himself at the slightest sound. He was brave enough to do this for you, he reminded himself. The fear of a bullet through his brain was not enough to hold him back.So he continued running, his eyes missing nothing. He met a lot of students, terrified and trembling on different corners of the school so he explained as fast as he could and sent them on their way. But there was no sign of you. He checked everywhere,on the teacher's office,on the janitor's closet, on every classroom...that left him with only one opinion.

     He rocked on his heels, trussing his hair before making the decision. You were worth the risk, so as quietly he could he went down the stairs.

      As he made his way down the first thing that hit was the stench. Copper and gun fire. The second thing he noticed was that no one was there except fallen bodies. Tears sprung to his eyes. He knew this people, he talked to them hours before and now they were lifeless masses on the floor because of a massacre. He swallowed and made himself look at their faces. No sign of you but this time he was relieved. "Y/N!" He whispered-shouted, scanning the place once again. 

"Fe-Felix!" A voice called out, weak, barely managing to speak up so he can notice. But he noticed, he swung his head to the direction of their window. He run so fast he didn't notice the trail of blood he run through, until he jumped out of the window and he saw you.

    You were laying just beside the window, clearly not having any more strength to pull yourself further away, looking like a total mess. Your hair disheveled beyond saving, skin ashen almost a sickly white, your lips that were usually smiling were twisted in a grimace, but you were alive.

      "Y/N!" He couldn't stop himself he immediately threw his hands around you, holding you tight but your response was one he didn't expect. A loud pained groan left your lips ,your whole body tensing. "Y-Y/N?" He stuttered, feeling lost. Until he saw the way you held yourself, the dried blood in your chin and lips ,but most importantly the flesh blood that was pooling in your stomach region. 

      "Why are you here,love?" She asked placing a cold hand on his cheek, caressing him lovingly. "You are supposed to be on the roof from what I heard"

      "I came to get you.Come on hang on to me, I can carry you up. Come on" he said, trying to place her hand around a his shoulders, but he only felt her tense more, pain filling her. He tried to snake his hands under her legs and host her up but it ended the same.

        "Lixie-"she started but he shushed her. He tried to collect her in his arms again, but he could feel how heavy her body was, how she couldn't control her movements. 

       "No!No no no no!No!" He chanted, as he capped her face "You have to get up, we have to get out together! I will dance with you every day! I will play cards with you! I will cook for you!You won't have to do anything! Just" he sobbed, tears he could no longer hold now were freely flowing. " Just stay with me. Please Y/N"he cried, willing her to live with him.

   "Felix,look at me" she breathed. He shook his head, burrowing his head in the crook of your neck, hugging you, breathing you in. He felt your lips at his temple and your weak arms wrapping themselves around him. "I will try to remember you in our next life. I will remember you." She promised. He pulled himself back and gave her a tearful smile.

     "And I will remember you, my love. I will remember you" he promised and leaned down to connect their lips one last time.

Swoosh!

He blinked.

He was on a helicopter, looking down at the school along with some of the others. He recognized Chan and Minho, who were going from person to person trying to reassure and comfort. He spotted Jisung and Changbin close by him, Hyunjin and his girl huddled in a corner clutching each other but he turned away , not standing the sigh of them. He turned his attention to the school below him. Now a graveyard for the fallen ones. A place that will always remind us of our loved ones. 

Tears filled his vision.

Goodbye my love , he thought. I will find you again.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~

Swoosh!

Blinding lights was the first thing he saw. Music was the first thing he heard. Something heavy on his person was the first thing he felt.

He opened his eyes and he was in awe.

They first thing he did was look down only to see a heavy armor surrounding him. It was all silver metal with gold finishings. A sword was fastened in the armor, he was sure it weighted the same amount as him, if it wasn't even heavier.Then he looked up to see where he was.

A palace. He was in a real life palace. It was pristine. White walls with golden details engraved in complicated designs stretched over the walls. The ceiling was high up, so the enormous golden chandelier had more room to extend all over the people dancing. They all glided so gracefully on the marble floor as thought they didn't touch it.

 Every girl was dressed in long regal dresses which when they moved on the dance floor twirled around them making them look like fairies, every man had a three piece suit and while they were magnificent they looked like the belonged in a medieval play. All had adored masks, some were more plain but still painfully beautiful with golden or silver details, others had chosen more bold colours with feathers and glittery dust decorating them. He could spot figures with plainer clothes and simple masks carrying traits and drinks. Servants,he thought. With an other quick look around he spotted men dressed in the same silver armor he wore. 

Upon a elevated space was a seat fit for a king. On its sides sat two smaller seats,not less regal. All had crimson cushions and gold details as well. Gold must be their thing,he thought. Two tall guards stood behind the thrones wearing an even heavier armor than his.

Great. Zombie apocalypse first, now Arthur and the round table. Excellent.

He leaned against the wall he was by and gazed at the crowd. He didn't see anyone he knew as he didn't know what was he supposed to do here. 

He didn't much attention to his surrounding until he felt a presence stop before him.

"Can I have this dance, kind sir?" a melodious voice echoed.

 He pinned her with his eyes "Y/N?" Voice lashed with doubt he called her.

A black mask with silver details hide her face, but he could recognize that eyes. He would never forget those eyes. 

He looked at her. Not believing that she stood before him, alive and well.He stared with vigor trying to erase the last memory of her bleeding at the ground and burn this one to his memory.

A silver tiara sat on top of glossy brown hair that were curled to perfection, her face although hidden by the mask was alluring completed by a set of rubby red lips. Her gown was amazing black velvet and tulle were wrapped around her in a perfect balance. If the other girls looked fairies, she looked like a queen. A dark queen of vengeance. 

"The one and only" she smirked, extending her hand. In his stupor he took it and stepped in the dance floor with her. She placed her right hand on his shoulders, fingers immediately starting to play with his hair and left hand placed in his. He tightened his arms around her in a daze. 

"You are here" the stupid smile didn't leave his face. She was here, her cold hands clutching his and looking him like he hung the stars. "I am so sor-" 

 "Lixie shhh. No. None of that. We are here. Together" they circled the dance floor twice by now and whispers started to arise, following them as they started their third round. 

"Together" he agreed.

"What is going on here?" He lowered his head placing on top of hers. She hid her face on his neck, placing a sweet kiss there making him flush.

"You are my knight in shining armor" she sung. "You are in for a surprise, knight"

"What?"he leaned back to take a good look at her. She smiled and opened her mouth-

  Swoosh!

He was back by the wall in what he assumed was his post. As soon as the scene started trumpets started playing announcing the entrance of the royal family. First entered the king, the tall man with a golden crown on his head had no mask for he had no need for it. He was the king you could see it in the way he moved. Second entered the queen, a beautiful woman that age hadn't touched yet. She was the epitome of grace. And lastly entered the princess-

Y/N?!

Her figure glad in all black gazed at the crowd with boredom and disinterest. She swept the dance floor who had frozen in their spots upon the entrance, over the guests. Her gaze caught his own for a brief moment her intense gaze piercing him. She lightly squinted her eyes at him and gave him a hint of a smile, then she was gone. She climbed on the marble pondium along with her parents' and sat on the left plush throne by her father. She got comfortable on her chair, took a glass of wine and observed.

 Quite some time passed and while Felix didn't always look at your side, everytime he did he met your stare. You looked at him like a cat that was looking at their milk, if it was anyone else he would be uncomfortable but he was actually enjoying your attention. He could get used to having scenes with you.

Clink clink! 

The king stood up, clinking his goblet earning everyone's attention."My dear subjects! We have gathered here today to celebrate my daughter's birthday. This year as she is turning eighteen she will be choosing a husband to take! And he is here tonight!" His voice echoed throughout the ballroom. Husband? A shot of fear passed through him. We would have to antagonize a husband now?

"I shall go to him now,father. To my future husband and king. He shall be the only one I marry" a snarky voice was heard. And a blackened figure aroused. 

She started to make her way through the crowd, everyone parting to make way for the future queen. A black dream through and through. Her black heels echoed as she walked and walked. Her figure was nearing him, he could see her face now, smirk intact, figure straight with pride and experience he was sure. Thoughts were swirling in his head until her figure stopped before him. Now his head was empty, empty of all except her.

 "He will be my husband" she said, manicured hand pointing straight at him.

 She smiled at him as hush whispers surrounded.

While on the outer side he wore a shocked expression,he smiled back from the inside and he was sure she knew.

He could get used to this comic, he thought.

I adored every single piece of the series💕

Whispers of Nature - m.list

It’s missing a couple members because I haven’t quite figured out their general plotlines, but here’s a taste of some of the other members’ stories :) 

Titles and roles are all subject to change!

SKZ Masterlist 

Whispers of Nature Reimagined (Stray Kids Spinoff) | A Desert Story (The Boyz Spinoff) | Wherever I Go (Ateez Seonghwa Spinoff) 

~ ~ ~

Brave

“For a knight, you’re an awful coward.”

forest guardian!Chan x knight!reader

.

Golden

“I wouldn’t be doing this if I didn’t love you.”

prince!Minho x witch!reader

preview: Runaway

.

Moonstruck

“You’ve always been special to me.”

moon child!Changbin x villager!reader

.

Quietude

“I didn’t want to love you.”

water nymph!Hyunjin x dryad!reader

preview: On Love

.

Bloom

“You will be safe in the ring. Always.”

fae!Jisung x villager!reader

spinoffs: Perfect | Tiny Steps (I’ll Hold Your Hand)

.

Constellation

“When you’re lonely, find me in the sky, yeah?”

star!Felix x shrine maiden!reader

.

Verdance

“People always find their way here for a reason, Your Highness. What is yours?”

prince!Seungmin x villager!reader

.

Granted

“My wish was for you to love me back.”

messenger boy!Jeongin x nymph!reader

preview: Wish

The Deal

Summary: She was officially failing in life and most importantly in university! With her grades hanging of the edge of a thread and tutors rejecting her left and right her only option is to make a deal with the devil a.k.a Kim Seungmin.A deal should always be fair. Your grades in exchange for Kim Seungmin's dream girl. Simple?...Right?!

Word Count: 35k

Slight enemies to lovers, idiots to lovers, slow burn, angst, fluff.

No warnings, some foul language.

AN: Finally it's here! Tumblr won't let me post it in one post, so I am forced to divide into two parts. Would you be interested in SKZ x Greek Mythology theme? Hope you enjoy!!!

Part 2

@lethallyprotected

    "Your tutor requested to be released from his duties"

"Again?!" You cried out, frustrated beyond belief. You started sweating in your seat. That was my 6th one! You thought, running your hands through your hair messing up the soft curls you had tried to make 2 hours or so ago. "Mr Marlow isn't there anything that I can do? Can't I do some extra credit?" You pleaded the professor that stood across you, desperation clear on your face.

   Mr. Marlow was slumped also in defeat in his plush rolling chair. His office was always the epitome of an organized chaos. Heavy books sat on top of his mahogany desk, some opened, some closed. Papers littered the surface, some with angry red notes accompanying them and some others filled with highlighted colors as to remind him of an extra important issue. 

      You always felt grateful that you had been assigned to Mr. Marlow, he may oddly resemble the white rabbit in the Alice in wonderland film personality wise, but he had a good heart and God bless him, he was so patient with you. He was the first teacher to show you such compassion and empathy and to push you to pursue more of your studies. He was an excellent teacher. And he wasn't obligated to sit and listen to you whine about your problems, but he was sitting there and trying to work out a solution with you. With great hesitation he opened his mouth "Maybe if you approached a professional?"

    You signed. "That would be way over my budget" you muttered regretfully. That would mean double the hours only to be left with crumbs. And you couldn't possibly ask your father of this.

     You signed once again and stood up with your bag on your shoulder ready to leave, slightly bowing to the old man before you. He had way more grey hair in the midst of his hair and beard since you had first met him you noticed. You bet that you were responsible for a good chuck of it. " Thank you regardless Mr Marlow. I will try to work it out" You made your way to the door with heavy steps before heading a rushed "Wait!" 

    He stood hurriedly from his chair and walked around the desk towards you, or more specifically towards to the large bookcase that covered his whole wall behind you, and started shuffling through more papers. You watched him, waiting for an explanation to his sudden manic frenzy. When he finally found what he had been searching for, he let out a yelp and turned towards you. "I shouldn't be doing this. I mean- It's not against the rules, but they wouldn't be pleased- Anyway! Y/N-"

    "Is this the part where you tell me you are my father and try to convince me to come to the dark side, professor? Because if it has cookies, let me tell you, I am already sold" you joked.

    Mr Marlow chuckled under his breath but moved on quickly. " This list that contains the names of the top students of our university. They may be of help to you. Try and persuade someone to help you, dear"he said grabbing a pen and scribbling down a note before giving you the piece of paper. A brief look in his smiling eyes and an other to the piece of paper with messy familiar swirlings on it and you were melting.

    "Thank you, Mr Marl" you smiled gracefully at him and bowed, deeper than last time, before taking the final step outside of his office.

 Now let the games begin.

 "So let me get this straight.. you will stalk the top three geniuses of the school to convince them to save your sorry ass from failing?" Yuqi provided, rather unhelpfully, in your humble opinion as she continued to stuff her face with her banana yogurt.

  "I am not stalking! I am watching them with an interest" you corrected her sternly. You were no stalker. You were a girl with purpose.

   "Sounds like stalking to me, but whatever floats your boat" she ironically replied. "Who will be your first target?" She said glancing at the instagram page you were snooping through. "Namjoon?"

    "I mean he is a literal genius. Who would be better to teach me than him?" You wondered out loud, fingers continuously scrolling down his page. He seemed nice, a little on the dorky side and smart. Not to mention handsome. "Well wish me luck" you said as you closed your phone and stood up.

     "You are going right now?" She asked, shocked at your standing figure.

     "Well, the semester isn't going to wait for me" you cackled and made your way to the table Kim Namjoon sat.

    It was not your first choice to approach him like this, but he always seemed to be running around doing this and that, which left lunch as the only safe option that didn't made you into a creep (in comparison to approaching him in a bar setting as you had contemplated). But now that you were approaching the group you were nervous, not only you had to ask a very attractive and smart stranger to tutor your failing ass, but you had to-partly- do it in front of his equally attractive friends.

     You heard a lively laugh booming from the table, a young man with a heart shaped smile was the source. You scanned them quickly, going through shades and shades of hair colors, before settling on the ash brown color that you wanted to speak to.

     "Kim Namjoon?" You asked, tone uncertain. Even though you said one name, seven pair of eyes turned to you. Every one more attractive than the next, you though dreamily. You briefly locked gaze with a short male with honey coloured hair and equally honeyed smile before an answer from your desired target caught your attention. "That would be me" a low voice answered you.

     You turned your gaze to the tall male. Board shoulder that enhanced his already tall frame, even thought his oversized tee and lose pants made it difficult to pinpoint, you were sure he was well built. Sand coloured hair, neatly cut, complimented his olive complexion awfully well. Small face, even smaller than yours even though you wouldn't admit it, straight nose and upon inspecting his smile a pair of adorable dimples. Yep, that was Kim Namjoon.

     "Can I talk to you for a minute?" You asked, politely, arms crossed behind you, making sure you were using your customer service smile.

      He looked at you, obviously not recognizing you and then back to his friends that wore wolfish smiles and eagerly nodded at him. "Uhhh..Sure" he replied, not yet sure of your intentions.

      "Come on" you said, leading him away from his friend's prying ears. You ended up a few meters away, standing a bit awkwardly facing each other. You craned your neck to make eye contact with him and decided to bite the bullet. "I know that this" you made a notion between the two of you "is random, but I have a big favor to ask" you started and lowered your gaze, not being able to look up now, you played with your fingers out of nerves. "Umm I know you are really busy, but I need help." You said, finding courage to look him in the eyes. " Truth is... I am failing in math and physics and you are the only one that can help me. I heard you are a genius and I thought that learning from the best is the best strategy." 

      Okay.. that could have gone better,you thought. But flattery and a pretty female face seemed to make him flustered... hopefully enough to agree. He opened and closed his mouth several times, hands raising to stroke his neck in shame and in embarrassment at your rough compliments. "Ohh...Umm.. I don't really know if I am the one that can help you. I am pretty busy-" he started before you cut in.

      "So am I! And I really need this! I wouldn't have asked you otherwise! You won't have to work hard! Just- just when I don't get something maybe you could explain it to me? Please?" You clutched your hands together in front of you, almost giving him puppy eyes. You were desperate and it showed. 

      "I-I don't know if I will be a good teacher but..." He looked uncertain and confused but an easygoing smile made its way onto his face "Sure! If I can help, I guess" he chuckled as he shifted his weight from one foot to another.

      "Thank you! Thank you Namjoon!" You said, particularly jumping up and down from joy. You couldn't believe it! It was so easy! You were going to make it!

You weren't going to make it.

You were doomed.

Namjoon was a sweetheart and a genius. And how did geniuses speak and explain? Apparently in a language you didn't understand or comprehend.

The gentle giant was true to his word and after you exchanged numbers you started going over the basics. For the record it was difficult to meet up.. Apparently everyone wants a genius in their project, so poor Namjoon was constantly running all around the place trying to fit it all to his hectic schedule. So you took it in a fast pace, trying to absorb as much info as you could and while Namjoon tried to help you (he truly did!) that only ended with frustrated signs and desperate stomps from you. Every word he spoke was like...like it was in an other language! You hit the first wall at physics and that wall extended into the math area and grew into a bigger and bigger wall and ended up like the Great Wall of China, separating your weak academic ass from the man who had an IQ of 148. 

    Sorrowfully you said your last goodbye at Namjoon, who in turn hugged you like the child he now thought you were and told you to call him whatever you needed.

    You signed.. it was already September! How would you be able to lift your grades by February? You couldn't give up though! Your part scholarship depended on it! So you pulled out the now crumbled paper and traced your finger over the second name. 

Kim Hong Joong.

You knew of him and his rowdy crew. Plus a close friend of his, Wooyoung, worked with you. You were on good terms with him, fortunately. He was way too cute for a guy in college you though, easy to talk to and with a breathy laugh, similar to those witchy cartoon characters, you like it though...not only it was contagious, but unique too. You would have to talk to him when you went to the coffee shop later, you decided. For now you slumped on your desk, ready for an exciting lesson on philosophy.

 After a good 3 hours of Aristotle's teaching you made your way to the cafeteria. Yuqi texted you a little while back, saying that her lesson ended early and was with Yuna to the cafeteria. You stood up shrugging on your thrifted university jacket and making your way through the crowd. The weather was perfect this time of the year, still hot enough from the summer heat with a light breeze blowing just enough to refresh you. The whole campus was still green and full of life, causing students to hang around the lawn. While you crossed the campus you catch a glimpse of the mess that consisted of Han Jisung. The short brunette was a ball of energy, that completely exhausted you while on the clock together, but his charm was incomparable. You still couldn't believe it that he had broken a dozen of cups and the manager just left him off the hook. You paused your walking to greet the boy.

   "Y/N! Hi!" He exclaimed, pulling you for a side hug. You smiled at him, greeting politely his friends as well. The brunette boy only stared at you, a single nod your only greeting while the taller of the two, a pretty boy with foxy eyes gave you an adorable dimpled smile, which you returned.

   " Hi! I haven't seen you almost a week." You replied, his absence from work painfully obvious. Thankfully you, at least, had Wooyoung, the funny man making the hours pass easily.

    "Oh yeah! I had to take some days off cause boss didn't match with my uni schedule. The semester barely begun and my professors gave us 3 new projects! To see if we lost our talent over the summer. Who says that?" He cried dramatically, but you were no better than him.

    "I know right?! Math has been beating my ass too" you whined, hosting your bag higher up your shoulder. You exchanged a look that only students who were failing could understand.

     "I get you. Not my best subject as well" he agreed as well.

     You smiled sympathetically and shook your head. "Anyway I got to run! Yuqi and Yuna are waiting for me! See you later Sung" you saluted, threw a last polite smile to your listeners and took the path to the cafeteria. You heard muffled whispers behind you, but you didn't pay much attention as you put your headphones on.

     Soon you were entering the cafeteria through the double glass doors, that overlooked a good chunk of the campus yard. You looked at the crowd trying to find the pair and just as you spotted a bright orange hair color in a space bun up do in the crowd, your front made contact with something solid causing you both to fall down.

     "Ouff!" A yelp escaped you as soon as you made contact with the floor under you. Ouch! You rubbed your aching bum as you checked yourself. Other than your headphones,that fell off (those darned wireless buds! I love you and hate you at the same time!) you were good to go. You lifted your head to see a petit girl, in a similar position to yours, only clutching her pink clad phone in her hands and letting a relieved sign. She lifted her head and-

     "I am so sorry!"

     "I am sorry!" 

   You both blurted at the same time, looked each other and burst laughing. You standed up, extending a hand to the dark haired beauty in front of you. "Sorry! I wasn't watching were I was going. You good?" you apologized as you pulled her up, inspecting her. Her short black skirt let you know that her thin legs were injury free, but you asked nevertheless, making sure.

   She smiled at you and showed her phone. "Nah I am good, only worried about my phone. Don't worry about it! I shouldn't have stood in the middle" she said as she dusted herself off.       

     "I am Lee Soojin" she said, extending her hand. She had glossy black locks framing her doll like face, which consisted of huge onyx eyes, a tiny nose and a set of full lips.Although she was the same height as you, she was thinner, almost fragile looking. She was dressed to the nines, a black skirt, a white fluffy top and loafers with a slight heel. She looked like a dream. Especially in comparison to you who wore flared jeans with a black tee, your outfit completing a pair of double soled black converse and your loyal thrifted university jacket. 

   "L/N Y/N" you said, shaking her hand.

   "I know.Sort of" she laughed a bit awkward in response to your raised brows. She knew you? "I often come by the coffee shop you work in. You get my coffee just right"

   Ohh."Vanilla Latte with one spoonful of sugar?" You asked, her face coming back to you bit by bit.

   "Yeah!"she beamed, unnaturally happy that her barista remembered her face. 

   "Nice to finally.. knowing you? " You joked, cocking your head. "I gotta go now. I will see you at the shop I guess" You said turning to see if Yuqi was still were you last saw her. She was. "Goodbye " you waved, before making your merry way to your table.

   "See you then"She called,waving. 

   As you made your way to your friends,you accidentally locked gazes with a boy who sat on the near table. Why was he looking at you so persistently? But then you noticed his gaze was still nailed to the spot, where your exchange with Soojin have been. You looked over your shoulder seeing Soojin talking with a tall male. Oh, well that made more sense, you snickered and started walking away.

   "Girl!" Yuqi exclaimed seeing you approach. "You okay? You fell on your ass pretty hard." She laughed that throaty laugh of hers, clearly enjoying your suffering.

   "I am glad my suffering and humiliation is funny to you" you murmured as you took a sit across her.

   "Don't pay attention to her, bub. You okay?" Yuna asked. She was always a motherly figure to the group, always asking and caring about you two. 

   "Thank you Yuna. I am fine Yuna" you answered sweetly, not looking to the direction of Yuqi. In response she laughed even harder, mocking me right back. 

   "Did you figure out what to do with your tutor problem?" The orange haired hirl asked as she was playing with the remaining food on her tray.

   "My second line of defense is Kim Hong Joong. I know him, sort of. Wooyoung is friends with him. I will try to get more info from him, I guess" you answered, unsure as you are a spoonful of the food the girls brought you.

   "And the third Kim?"she asked, mirth dancing in her eyes. She found it extremely funny that the top 3 students of the school were Kims'. 

   "Kim Seungmin." You muttered,against your bitten fingernails. Anxiety was not your scene. "I didn't find him on insta. I don't really know anyone who knows him. I will have to snoop around" Yuna swatted your bitten hand away from your mouth. 

   "I can ask some people if you want" suggested Yuqi, in the mist of a bite. You nodded gratefully towards her. Yuna looked between you two, several times before signing "You know you should stop talking like you are members of a mafia gang" she contemplated, finishing the last of her desert. 

   You looked at Yuqi, cocked your head and with one voice you both answered: "No"

   Yuna laughed, raising her hands as if she was admitting defeat, Yuqi and you soon followed.

   You were on the very edge to being late.

Once again your professor thought that, their lesson was the only thing taking up your time so he thought it would do you good to deepen on the subject. 

  For an extra half hour.

 Which left you with little time to no time to eat, cause queues in the cafeteria were a bitch and hurrying to make your way to your afternoon shift.

   When the coffee shop was on your line of vision, you were finally able to catch your breath. Usually the sight of the small coffee shop that was full of  glass covered walls and potted plants brought you a sense of calm. Today you were on edge though, not only you were running all the way from across campus, but you were going to ask Wooyoung about Kim Hong Joong's number so you can make contact with your second contestant. 

   As soon as you walked through the glass door, the sound of shutters going off greeted you. Your boss's idea to make the place instagramable was the best thing that could happen to her. Cute art on the walls, well placed neon lights, that were not over the top and fit the relaxing vibe of the shop were placed on bare walls, that the costumers could be photographed against. Cute cozy sofas and chairs in pale colors were all over the shop. A grand staircase by the bar lead to the second floor, which was reformed into a studying area for the struggling students. All in all, the shop was an instagram dream, the staff was consisted mostly of cute looking guys and dashing girls (you still couldn't understand how you got the job, you were pretty but those people were on a whole other level) but you wouldn't complain.

    You made your way behind the bar, into the staff room shedding your jacket and your favourite messenger bag and donned your black apron with the log of the shop.  By the time you were out, Wooyoung was leaning against the counter, sweet talking to some girls that were giggling in response. You shook your head and started to make a cup of coffee for yourself, reading yourself for a busy shift. 

    You had barely touched the machine, when you noticed a tall boy waving at you to get your attention. You went to him and started reciting your familiar line: "Hello. What can I get you?"

    He smiled prettily at you and leaned slightly closer so he can speak more quietly "Hello.. Can I order a coffee and maybe you can deliver it to the table?" He asked, scratching the back of his neck, not sure how to get out his inner thoughts.

     "Sure" you answered easily. "What can I get you?"

      "A vanilla latte with one spoonful of sugar please. Can you deliver it to the table by the window? To the girl with the green cardigan. Tell her it's from Eric" you raised your head to the direction the boy pointed and saw Soojin sitting there with a couple of friends you vaguely recognized.

     "Well, Eric...consider me your cupid for the evening. Don't leave until after I give her the drink" You supplied with a crooked grin as you made the coffee. You exited the bar and drink in hand you made your way to the girls.

     "Good evening Soojin. Girls" you greeted, placing the cup in front of her. "This is for you from the gentleman over there" you pointed out the lean form of Eric, that stood rooted in place. He gave an adorably awkward wave and a charming smile and bolted (as confidently as he could) out of the door.

      "You are for sure popular" you joked.

    She politely raised her hands, silently arguing with your statement. "You just got here? Is.. Jisung's.. shift over?"

      "Jisung is the brunette one. The red headed one is Wooyoung. But yes, he is done for the day. And I am just getting started..Yay.." You made sure to plaster a very fake smile to show your.. excitement for the day that is to come. "Anyway, nice seeing you again. I gotta go back now" you said, already walking backwards to your post.

       "Hey Y/N! How it's going?" Wooyoung greeted you now that the coast was clear of beautiful girls, that required his attention.

      "I am good. I wanted to ask you something though... about your friend Hong Joong-"you started to say, but was rudely interrupted.

       "While you are beautiful, he is currently semi-available. He has his sight on this girl-" he started, but you quickly cut him off.

       "Thank you for the unwanted info and for the compliment, but that was not my intention. I actually wanted to know if he is interested in tutoring. I learned that, he is one of the top students. Currently math and physics are making my life a living hell and I thought maybe someone who was on a more...high intellectual level, would be able to help little old me" you finished.

       He stared for bit before answering "Well, I don't know if he have the time, but I'll tell you what. I'll give you his number so you can ask him yourself" he exclaimed, already fishing his phone out of his back pocket.

      "Thank you, Wooyoung! I owe you one!"  You grinded big and wide. Maybe luck would be on your side this time. "How it's going with Somi by the way?" You asked, as you put your phone back to its place under the bar.

       His smile immediately fell and frustration took place. "She hasn't called, texted or anything! I just don't understand! We go out, have fun, we are talking and suddenly, she disappears! Is that normal?" He cried out, hands shooting to his fiery locks, messing them further up.

      "Maybe she doesn't know what she wants yet. Or maybe she hasn't cleared up a previous relationship yet and is hesitant to get involved with you" you shrugged as you leaned back into the wooden surface of the cashier.

     "Well why can't she say so then?! What does she think that I would do?" He clicked his tongue as he cleaned the tools he used to make a coffee. At least he was putting his frustration into good use.

        "Hello!" A voice sounded from behind you and you turned to ask yet again, what the next person would like.

     You were once again on your way to the coffee shop. You swore that these days the shop saw you more than your own house. It was a sorry excuse of a house really, but it was a house. You couldn't complain, it was cheap rent and a roof over your head. You walked into the shop and immediately you were greeted by a familiar voice "Hello! What would you lik- Oh it's you" the man finished, his voice significantly lower by the end of his sentence.

      "Nice to see you too, Sung" you sassed back, walking to the bar where he usually lounged. "An Americano, please! Is he here?" You inquired as you watched him get to work. The shade he dyed his hair now suited him very well, you thought. Pure black with blue undertones. You had heard several girls gossiping or rather complimenting him on his new appearance. He had let his hair grow a bit longer, not enough to grow a mullet, but enough to ruffle through. Today he donned a white shirt and black skinny jeans with chains, that gave him an edge. He never learned his lesson though, you clicked your tongue, white clothes and making coffee didn't go together. As he turned to you, you noticed a tiny stain on his sleeve. You passed him a bill as you took your coffee.

       "Yeah, he is upstairs" he answered as he passed your bill right back to you, winking.

        "Thank you love" you said, winking back and making your way upstairs. For a Wednesday afternoon the second floor was understandable empty, especially at the beginning of the semester. That's why you immediately knew who was the party who awaited you. You crossed the floor and took the opposite seat. "Hong Joong, right?"

        "Yes. Y/N?" He asked you, hands around his cappuccino. He had a small face, his straight slim nose was a masterpiece you were jealous of and pared with a nice set of lips, he seemed adorable. What greatly contrasted his sweet face was his wild half white half black hair, that was styled into a mullet with the side chopped off. Along with his hair, his multiple piercings gave off a more bad boy vibe that you were used to.

        "Yeah thank you so much that you agreed to come. Wooyoung mentioned your.. hectic schedule." You laughed the awkwardness off. 

       "Don't mention it! I came to talk to you, but I don't know if I can help you. I am on my final year and this will get crazy pretty soon." He said, grimacing throughout every word. He threw an apologetic smile towards you, but you cutt him off before he could continue.

        "Yeah I know! I know and I don't want to pressure you! But I really need help.. I really can't afford to fail.. I can be available whenever  you are. If you tell me in advance, I can schedule it with my manager so my shifts won't be a problem." you breathed, suddenly dropping out was becoming a very real problem. You never thought that you would be so close to failing and doing so was not an option.

       "Well then..okay. I will try to help you. But just so you know things will be difficult. Mainly because my hours can be weird-"

       "I am fine with that! Just-...Thank you" you finished, a grateful smile spreading across your face.

       "How about we start now?" He suggested with an oh-so-innocent smile on his face. 

       "Now now? Well I have only my math notebook with me.."you trailed.

       "Excellent! I can see where do you get stuck then!"

       "Yes! Thank you Hong Joong!"

        "..And then she tried to call your grandma out!" He cried out onto the speaker 

        You laughed loudly at that. "Did she beat this granny up?" You questioned, knowing oh so well your grandma's fiery temper.

      "They almost dueled on the supermarket with the carts!" He giggled, recalling the scene.

      "Damn! I wish I was there to see her!" You cheered gleefully. You had missed your home.

         "Aahh you should have seen her! Now that you said this..when are you coming home?? Your grandparents are talking my ear off! They want to see you! And so do I?You know better than this!" He laughed that full belly laugh of his. 

     "I will come home for Christmas daddy. I promise!" You oathed. 

    "Can't you miss one weekend?" He asked, defeat evident on his tone. You couldn't miss your shifts, but he didn't have to know that. 

  "I will be there before you even know it, old man!" You sassed, distracting him. 

 "Yeah, right " he scoffed into the line.

You couldn't go now. Not when everything was going great!

     Everything, for once, was going in your way! You and Hoonie were on spectacular terms when it came on understanding, he explained everything so well, that it was practically impossible not to get it! Your physics professor ,after seeing your newfound effort in her class and after a particular talk with Mr. Marlow, agreed to give you an extra project, so you can get some much needed credit.

     You were running around double the time you were used to, but it was worth it. Many times Hong Joong would finish particularly late, so he would come over to teach you and you would study well into the early hours of the morning, but you were content. You were good on your house payments, even making something extra to send to your dad. He was on house installments that were kicking his ass and together with your grandparents he made it through, but with little to spare. 

     Your phone vibrated as you spoke. You checked it out seeing the familiar Instagram name of Hong Joong."Yes yes dad! I gotta go now. I love you" 

        "-ve you too " you vaguely heard him call out, before you hung up. A message from Hong Joong made you freeze. 

We should talk.

That's all it said. You quickly unlocked your phone, searching for his number and called.

         "Hey Hong Joong! I saw your message.. Is everything okay?"you inquired, plopping down your bed. You should reverse it back to the couch setting, since you expected the man that you were currently on the phone with, you mentally noted.

         "Yeah, but I have some bad news. I will tell you in person. We have a session in 2 hours right?" He asked, absentmindedly as he was shuffling through papers. He was making so much noise you could barely hear him.

        "Yeah, I will be expecting you Hoonie"you said as you nervously bounced on your bed.

       "Do a recap, okay? I will test you on the last four chapters" More shuffling was heard from the other end of the line. 

       "Okay.. I have the papers you were asking for ready, by the way. I asked my friend" you mumbled, teeth already working on your ruined nails.

       "Thank you Y/Nie! I won't be long" he chanted, his voice more distant now.

        "Ok! Byee!" you called. You shouldn't panic, maybe he wanted to tell you about a problem he had found on your worksheet, you reasoned. It didn't have to be anything bad. You decided to distract yourself, you had chores to do and a review to complete before Hong Joong arrived. Get up, you said to yourself. Don't think about it.

         You pulled yourself up and started collecting your fallen clothes, that you had scattered around in your try to get to your lecture on time this morning. You should go to the laundry mat later, you noted. The pots, that were left on the sink yesterday evening, were starting to smell so you donned your apron and quickly started cleaning the kitchen as well. An hour passed by, before you settled on your old but comfy grey couch-bed to study per request of Hong Joong. Math were starting to get easier as you went by, but they were still a pain to deal with.

    Not much time passed, or so you thought, before you heard a knock. You looked at your clock to see it was six o'clock already.

        You stretched over the sofa to reach the doorknob, turning slightly to let Jong Joong in.

      "You know you shouldn't open the door like that. What if I was a stranger trying to rob you?" He said as he passed the threshold, already hand in his backpack to get out his books. 

       "If someone came in and saw me like this, he wouldn't tried to rob me, he would pity me so much that he would even give me pocket money' you said, eyebrows lifting as you watched him spread books upon books on your coffee table and on your floor. 

      "Ha ha" he ironically said. "Are you ready?" 

      "What was that you wanted to tell me?" You wondered.

      He hesitated, but eventually he said "Let's study first ..I will tell you after." Do you studied meticulously for the next hour or so. And when you thought the torture had finished, you were in for an equal bad time.

      "What?!"you incrediously exclaimed, shocked by the news. "Noo!" you shouted in despair. 

      "I am sorry. We are only a month in and I couldn't keep up." He admitted regretfully.

      "No...this isn't your fault Hoonie. I had known that you would be burdened eventually. Your final year is beating your ass, you should do your best to concentrate" you admitted, head lowering. Despite your words of encouragement, you felt as someone was destroying your carefully build house of cards.

       "Thanks for understanding. And if it comforts you are doing much better already!" He tried to cheer you up, but a look on your face was enough to shut him up. "Do you have a backup plan?" He asked you, concerned.

        "I have one more person, that was recommended to me. But I don't know him so I have to look him up. I hope that he is accepting "you signed, checking your phone. "Hey, do you have plans right now? Yuqi and Yuna are coming for a movie night" 

        "I have plans with Yunho and Mingi, but I appreciate the offer. Good night, Y/N!"

        You smiled and waved him goodbye. You would have to study twice as hard now. It was true, that you were getting better. Physics, with a little more effort, would be doable. Math on the other hand...

         You opened your phone, entering Instagram. You tapped on the search bar and typed Kim Seungmin. But no results came.. well it came up with several names and faces, but none of them was connected to your university or had common friends with you.. How the hell you were supposed to find him? You searched on Facebook, on Viber too.. N.O.T.H.I.N.G! Was the dude a ghost or something?

       A knock on your door pulled you out of your daydream. You recognized the loud voices and the frequent giggles, so once again you opened the door without checking. 

       "Babyy~" arms wrapped around you and the smell of peaches filled your senses. Yuqi rocked you in her arms, quite strongly, for such a petite figure. "How was your lesson with Joong?" She asked as she released you and Yuna made her way into your small home, carrying a large pizza.

         "Hoonie was wonderful, but that was our last lesson" you wailed. Wiping fake tears, you continued "He got assigned to two new projects and his professor suggested him for a possible internship. I mean, I am happy for him. I am just worried." You ranted as you got up.

        You made your way to your fridge and took out a half empty bottle of rose wine, that you kept especially for movie nights. You grabbed 3 glasses and returned to the girls that were already opening the bed. You passed each of them a glass and took a sit on the head of the bed.

         "So now what?" Yuna asked as she took her first bite of her pizza.

         "I tried searching for Kim Seungmin on insta, on facebook, on everything! But I came up empty...I will try some more and if I can't find him...I will just do whatever I can on my own." Yuna's hand rubbed soothing circles on your back. You looked up only to find their concerned gazes focused on you.  "Hey don't look at me like that! Come on! Let's forget about it and eat! On which episode we paused last?"

         "The 12th! Finally! I was waiting the whole week for this!" Yuna cheered "Do you know that, they will make a second season?"

         "As they should. Alchemy of souls is a masterpiece! I would watch 10 more seasons!" 

         As the tittle song rolled in, all of you fell quiet and let the amazing drama pull you in.

    "Y/N!!!"

  A piercing scream in the form of your name echoed inside the coffee shop. Some customers were startled, some were plain staring at the hurricane,that was Yuqi. 

       You shushed her warningly and turned with a very fake smile to the customer in front of you. The guy gave you an understanding look, took his coffee and left you with the loud girl. 

     "You'll never guess! You owe me! You owe me!" She was literally rocking on her heels, her hands clasped together and looking at you adorably excited. "So about the thing with your third Kim. I asked Lucas, who asked Yuta, who knew that Ten and Minho are friends, that Minho is friends with Seungmin. But guess who Minho and Seungmin are friends with?!" She finished without a breath and left you staring at her. 

       You blinked twice. "You should have become a rapper, not a linguist" you amazed. "And also... what?"

        "Girl! Focus! Kim Seungmin! The target! We know who he is!" She exclaimed, her excitement peaking again. "Kim Seungmin. Second year like us. Science department, dental care. Tall, brunette, glasses. He doesn't really have a large friend group. He is close with Minho, who I mentioned earlier and guess who else?!"

        "Who?" you asked, looking at her rather dumply. 

        Not caring about you not catching up, she exclaimed a name you didn't expect. "Han Jisung!" 

        That startled you out of your shock. "My Jisung?" You questioned, pointing at the culprit who was cheerily cleaning up the station. The only response you received was a fierce nod from her. Luck was smiling at you again. So you took casual but calculated steps towards the boy, who had his back turned to you. 

         "Jisung! My man! How are you?" you squealed as you placed your hands around him, successfully capturing him. He turned around with a smile, not having a better sense to start running away. 

         "When we last talked..you know 7 minutes ago..I was well."he laughed as he wiped his hands on the only dry towel we kept in our station. 

           "I have heard you are friends with Lee Minho and Kim Seungmin.."you started, not really knowing how to tell him but a voice stopped you on your tracks.

           "What would you like to know about me?" A smug voice asked from the counter. You turned and saw a new presence next to an awkward Yuqi. The new arrival was a little taller than Yuqi, brown locks,almost honey colored, were framing his slim face. His eyes were up turned, feline like and they were watching your every move with intelligent and playfulness. Like a true cat. His lips were slightly up turned as well, giving you the impression that he was silently laughing at you. 

      "Who are you?" you asked as you approached the cashier where he was standing, not knowing better yourself. 

       Eyebrows raised and smug smile intact. "I am Lee Minho. I heard you talking about me." he returned as he tapped his fingers against the counter. 

        "Oh!" you said, finally understanding. "Actually I was interested in your friend-" 

        "Seungmin!"

        "Seungmin!"

   Two voices cut the air, equally shocked. You looked both at the stranger by the cashier and your coworker in wonder. Their smiles threaten to break off their faces, eyes widened with pleasant surprise. Oh! They misunderstood you. "No! No! It's not what you are thinking! I actually am searching for a tutor and I was told he was on top of the academic list. But I can't find him anywhere" 

       "Ahh.." 

       "Ahh.." 

    In union they let out an equally disappointed sign, making you let out an amused huff. 

       "It's a shame tho...I think you would suit each other.."murmured Jisung, tousling his hair gently. 

        "You could give him a run for his money. From what Jisung told me about you." Minho pleasantly hummed.

         You turned to face your friend, eyes squinted and face accusing. He immediately raised his hands and denied any guilt. The rest of your company let out laughs at the comical scene. 

          "But jokes aside. Our Seungminnie is a little... emotionally constipated. Yeah, let's say that." Minho explained as he scanned the menu now. Yuqi was silent by his side, eyeing between you and him. "Other than that, he is an lovable idiot"

        He eventually ordered to Jisung, who started making the drink right away. "What do you mean by that?"you asked. 

        "Well he is rather reserved and he is the no bullshit type of guy. He will not be likely to accept tutoring you." 

        Wonderful. That was exactly what you didn't want to hear.

        Well you hoped you could have to change that. 

    You turned to him, with a hint of a smile and asked him.

      "Can you tell me where I can find him?"

      After your short talk with Minho and Jisung, you stalked Kim Seungmin. 

      You and Yuqi were the main agents, that were running all over the place. The first time you caught a glimpse of him with Minho and Jisung at the courtyard, chilling leisurely. In contrast to what Minho told you, he seemed lovely, cute smile and animated talking from what you saw. You spotted him going to class, thankfully your hours matched, so you had an eye on him. You even saw him at the coffee shop a time or two, though he never stayed. 

     From what you gathered he was a reserved guy, just as Minho said. He didn't really talk to many people, he made a funny comment or two, but then he was out of sight. You currently were on the cafeteria, with Yuna and Ryunjin by your side, watching him from afar. He was sitting with a black haired boy you didn't know, he looked quite young though (probably younger than you two)  and was constantly glancing somewhere. You tried to follow his gaze, but you couldn't pint point where it landed every time. Something in your gut told you to pay attention though, as if this could be the solution to your problems. 

And you always trusted your gut.

       So the gazes continued. He was watching someone and you were watching him. Just as you were growing tired of this and was beginning to quit your whole detective game, his gaze shifted. The person he was watching was moving towards the exit. So you snapped your gaze at the door and there they stood, in all their glory against the sunlight that burst through the glass walls. As fair as the snow white herself. You turned your gaze towards Seungmin again, watching him ogle Lee Soojin, like an idiot in love and a smile made itself known in your face. 

      You had a plan.

    After careful examination, or detective work as Yuqi had affectionate calling it, you finally had confirmed your hatch. 

    A little more stalking was required, but along with the help you received from your girls, it was easy as a piece of cake. 

    A little comments here and there in an attempt to make Jisung spill some beans, which worked wonderfully and left him in a stupor (you made yourself a mental note not to trust him with anything personal again), and your plan was set.

    It was a little bit of a stretch, to think that he would agree to help you just so he can get a girlfriend, but you had no options left. Math was kicking your ass again and alone you were struggling, it was like you were drowning and you were trying to paddle your way through.

    You just needed a lifeline that would get you through. Just for the upcoming exams. So determinately you lifted your chin and made your way to the library.      

         You hadn't made it a habit to visit the library. You hadn't had the time either. 

You stood outside for a beat, gathering your wits. The building was tall and imposing, making you even more hesitant to go in. But you had to brave it, you had to fake it till you make it.

   You took one big breath and entered. The three floor building seemed even bigger on the inside. Old wood, that was a miracle that still held, was everywhere and the smell of old books surrounded the place. Your eyes ranked over the multiple desks, that held many students. No, not him. Him neither. No. And here he was. Your eyes found him.

    He was there, just like Minho said he would. He was taller than you expected. And more handsome. Soft brown locks that were cut into a neat haircut fell just above his eyes. Glasses stood high on his straight nose, hiding the exact color of his eyes due to the light hitting on them, but if your own eyes didn't deceive you you would swear that they were a dark brown, maybe even onyx like. He wore a serious expression, his mouth pressed into a thin line. The oversized white tee he wore, along with the black cargo pants didn't do wonders on his figure but he sure looked comfy in them. He also looked very concentrated and you felt bad to break it off, but not bad enough not to do it. 

       You criss crossed between the tables and unsuspecting students and plopped down on the opposite seat. He briefly looked up from his laptop, but upon seeing your unfamiliar face, he soon returned his gaze at the screen in front of him. 

      "Hi, you're Kim Seungmin, right?" You slowly asked, testing the waters. When the words left your mouth, he slowly looked up and met my gaze. He seemed unsure of what my deal was and not really keen on finding out. 

     "Yes, that would be me" he said, not offering any other information or asking for your own name, for that fact. His face stayed the same as when he was reading. 

     Great.. from what it seems, this was the default.

     "Since you didn't ask. Hi, my name is Y/N and I am here to propose a deal to you." You said, bringing your hands on the table and waving them together. He didn't say anything just made himself more comfortable on the chair and his figure slouching . 

      "I am on the verge of failing my math class and I need help. Your help to be exact." He crossed his arms and leaned back further. No emotion yet on his face, a subtle raise of his eyebrow was the only answer you got, something similar to a disbelieving scoff leaving him, he seemed like he was mocking you. But you didn't know if you were imagining things, just to fill that void in his facade. Maybe if you stroked his ego? "They said to come to you and that you were one of the top three students of the school" you said putting your chin on top of hands, smile still intact. Be pleasant and nice was your only option. Smile and waved boys, just smile and wave.

        He leaned forward, mimicking your posture. His hands were long and elegant you noticed, like that of a piano player. "Thank you for the.. preference. But I will have to decline" he said with a grimace that some would call a smile. You knew better.

       "But you didn't let me finish. It has come to my knowledge that you like Lee Soojin" you said, a smile making it's way on your face.             Finally, a spark of emotion! His  eyes momentarily widened and his mouth fell slightly open before he straightened his expression, he immediately turned his head right and left and he leaned closer to you, glaring intensely. You grinned even wider at the action, a crack in his armor was all you needed.

     He continued glaring at you for a moment, clearly contemplating if killing you was the safest option, but eventually he fell back against his chair, not speaking a word.

     "I can help you get together with her. I saw you watching her from a far. I happened to know her, she is a regular to the cafe I work at" you begun before he could open his mouth.

          His face didn't change much, now annoyance was a little more prominent, but the emptiness still ruled over his face.  "Unfortunately, I will not be helping you as I have my own issues and I believe the second statement is none of your business. I wish I could say that it was a pleasure meeting you but I avoid lying. Have a good day" he said, utterly dismissing you. He turned back to his laptop, leisurely fixing his glasses, not giving you an other lick of attention.

 Well that went exactly as they warned you. When Minho said emotionally constipated, you didn't think they really meant it. Even though you wanted to grab him by his shoulders and shake him, you couldn't force him to accept. You had played your cards and lost. As you would probably lose your scholarship..

            You looked at him for a moment, then collected your stuff from the chair you had pushed them into and stood "If you change your mind, you will find me at the coffee shop by the uni. You know the one Soojin goes. Have a good day "you said, almost giggling to the look he threw you, at the mention of the girl's name. You gave him a salute and turned walking away so you can cry away your day in peace.

       Despite you thinking that the promise of a girlfriend would be enough, mister Kim Seungmin proved you wrong and didn't agree to your offer. So you were left struggling alone just shy of October. To your surprise and utter delight of Mr. Marlow, you were decent enough in physics now. Your physic proff was moved by your struggle and impressed by your newfound knowledge so she agreed to give you a couple of projects, in order to make up for the lost grades. It was a real pain in the ass to balance your university life, along with work and the extra hours of studying that you put in to catch up, but at least you were afloat..for now. 

      And despite of denying your deal you saw more and more of Kim Seungmin. First it was at the cafeteria, him gazing discreetly at her and you gazing at them. Once or twice, your eyes would meet and you would raise your eyebrow at him, secretly judging. He would answer with a fiery look and squinting eyes back at you.

  You would meet him at campus were he would simply hangout with his friends. You had repeatedly greeted them, asking the usual 'how are you' and 'are you good', both Jisung and Minho had answered you (your coworker bubbly as ever and Minho albeit with less enthusiasm but not unfriendly), but Seungmin just stared you emptily. You swore he only had two emotions, emptiness and aggression. If he had more.. well you had yet to see them. 

     The third place he frequent went in was no other than your workplace. He collected the info you gave him, the sneaky bastard, and used it without you reaping the benefits. He showed up just a week after your meet up. As Minho's friend he had visited the place before and sure, he could have grabbed a casual pick-me-up, but he had never sat down on the cafe. One day though, he rolled up in a casual sky blue hoodie and a pair of jeans with his own trusted bad on his shoulders. A cute pair of glasses decorated his face and his hair, even messy, had a certain charm.

    Such a waste of good looks, you thought. His face upon seeing you behind the bar was comical to say the least. He was pretty neutral before entering, a calming aura around him but when he saw you, his lips pressed together in a grimace and a cold demeanor met you. You had smiled though and took his order, mentally scoffing. A black Americano. How unoriginal. 

     He had came up empty that day, as Soojin hadn't shown up. His next try was successful, not only he had manage to nail the time the girl came ,but also managed to secure a spot near her table. His subtle heart eyes made you want to puke. 

     His third time though was your favourite. Soojin was by her usual corner, but she was not alone this time. Eric was by her side in all his blonde glory, making the girl giggle and blush so hard. Of course Mr Kim Seungmin was shooting lazer from his eyes, face empty and eyes filled with the promise of murder. It was a delightful thing.

        Two weeks flew by and your panicked began to rise. A typical Wednesday and you were staring blankly at the entrance, wondering if a future as a barista was the only option left for you. Your train of thought was rudely interrupted by a tall figure getting all up in your face. A tall brown haired menace.

   As the days flew by your polite smiles turned into sarcasm filled giggles and a pressing desire to annoy the fuck out of his majesty, the genius. So you looked up to meet his eyes, met with the usual picture of him frowning down at you. 

       "Can I help you?" You asked monotone, already moving away to prepare his order. He never tried anything else besides his bland americano. 

        He didn't move, only looked at you decisively. He leaned over the counter as much as he could "I don't want coffee. I want to talk to you" You stared at him. Did you want to be rude and deny? He deserved it, but that would require your downfall so you swallowed your pride and nodded.

       You quickly told  Shushua you would be a minute and leaded Seungmin into a quiet corner of the shop. You sat down and the staring match began. 

     You knew this, this was a war of nerves. As a business major you knew he wanted the deal you presented, but he was stubborn enough not to begin the discussion. " You thought about my proposal?" You probed gently.

      After a brief hesitation he nodded and finally spoke. "I would be willing to help you" he stated simply. He was truly a man of few words. You hoped that didn't seep through to his teaching. 

       "Wonderful!" You cheered, clapping once in satisfaction and leaning back to your plush chair. " When can you start? I am in immediate need of attention" you joked, just to see him squirm. He didn't disappoint as he lightly shifted his weight on the comfortable couch he sat. 

        "I don't work.. so we can follow your program" he stated dismissively. "Where do you lack?" He seemed more comfortable focusing his attention on your academic problem, than his unrequited crush. Cute, you thought.

       "Math is my main problem. I fixed my physics grade enough to pass through this semester. Maybe a lesson or two in exam season, if you are kind enough." You listed, resting your head in your hand. You should sound dismissive and aloof and play your cards right this time. 

      "Okay we can work on that.." he trailed off, not knowing how to get on with the conversation.

       "You should open an Instagram page" you suddenly said. He needed the exposure you had decided. He had the looks, he was smart and if we worked on his manners.. he could get Soojin.

        He scoffed, right back at his usual self. "And why would I do that?" He asked, now that you knew him a little, his voice filled with disbelief and irony.

       "So you can show off your good looks to Soojin obviously. From my point of you this is the only thing you have going on" you stated, smirking. His relaxed, albeit a little uncomfortable, pose tensed. "It's adorable how tense you get when I mention her" you teased, lips curling a little, not able to resist. You had to ask. "What made you change your mind?"

    "I thought about it. That's it"  You looked at him. His jaw was clenched, his posture still tense and he was looking you straight in the eyes, almost as if he was daring you to say it.

   "Are you sure? Are you sure that someone didn't help in changing your mind? Like someone trying to get your girl. Someone named...Eric?" you waved your fingers together and placed your chin lightly on them. From the way his body tensed even more, his mouth was pressed into a thin line, fully concealing his full lips and the lightly squinting of his eyes, you hit bulls eye. 

      "Well.. appearance wise, I don't have a lot to fix. Personality wise though..we could do so much better." You innocently smile. "Anyway she is on social a lot, she often comes to take photos here, she even followed me. The first step we have to make is her acknowledging you. So genius boy... When are you free?" 

     His way of teaching is as insufferable as he is you soon learned.

     You had agreed to meet at the library. The tall building served as an excellent place as he wasn't keen on visiting your house. It was fine by you, you weren't thrilled about having him in your apartment as well.

       The first thing he did was a through  exploration of your knowledge. And then, the torture began. Equations, problems, types... And a good chunk of it, you failed to get.

     "You must be kidding! Even the professor doesn't give us that much homework!" You dramatically yelled, earning a few looks from the people around you and a glare from your companion.

     "If you want to improve, this is the appropriate amount. It's truly remarkable how much you don't understand" he noted as he started gathering his books, placing them neatly in a navy blue backpack. You were amazed at capability of his backpack. You could probably fit yourself in there, if you tried.

     "I am a marketing major! I don't need to know these things!" You cried out, more quietly this time, no less dramatic though, desperation coloring your voice. 

      "You are in marketing?" He asked, taken aback. You were crossing the entrance of the library and stood there for a moment. Should you be offended by his surprise?

      "Yeah, why the surprise? What you thought I would be?" You rocked on your heel, craning your neck to look at him. 

       "Something more dramatic. Performing arts, perhaps" he replied. Well... you could give him that. You could be a total drama queen when you wanted.

       "I will inform you, that I am excellent at what I do. Point proven by the fact you are here. I advertised my deal in an appealing way, you weighted your options and you took mine." You said, trying to bite back the smile you could feel surfacing. He grimaced at your wording, not being able to deny the truth.

        "Whatever." He said as he began to walk to a direction that you had not in mind. So you reached for his precious backpack and pulled him towards you. He lightly stumbled, but regained his footing quickly and turned to you, eyebrows raised and mouth pulled tight together. "What?"

        You smiled up at him. "I thought our deal should be fair. After our lessons, it will be your turn. So today we are going to the cafe!" You pulled once again, at his sleeve this time and much to your surprise he followed you without complains.

     You let him go and walked backwards so you can face him "Soojin visits the cafe regularly. But Fridays are a must for her. Her lecture is done at two, so she eats at the cafeteria and she usually comes around 3ish"

      "You know too much for someone who is simply her barista" he noted, eyes fleeting at the road behind you and refocusing on your face. You shrugged nonchalantly.

      "You would be surprised at what I know " you dismissed. You turned to walk normally and adjusted your brown messenger bag on your shoulder. You should try using a backpack as well, you adored the bag but the weight was starting to hurt your shoulder, especially with the weight of the extra books. "After going to the cafe, we are going to have a photoshoot!"    

He looked at me from the side like I had grown a second head and shook his head."No"        

         "Yep"        

         "No"      

         "Yep!"   

         "No!" He raised his voice for once matching your tone, but quickly he cleared his throat and said "I am not doing it"     You threw a smile over your shoulder and opened the door to the cafe you had reached. People littered a few tables, here and there, but a calmness ruled over, a calmness that your loud coworker disturbed with over hyper 

tunes.

 His bright red hair served just as an additional distraction from the comfy atmosphere as it caught the light from the way he moved all over the place from behind the bar. You smiled and you made your way to him. You didn't turn to check, but you felt Seungmin following silently behind you.

     "Wooyoung!" You exclaimed, successfully capturing his attention. You dramatically threw yourself over the counter top and whined for coffee. 

       "Hello to you too!"he giggled and threw a polite smile over your shoulder to the giant behind you "Hello!" He said, receiving a nod from Seungmin and turned back to you "How was your lesson?" He asked as he showed his back to you, starting to make the precious drink you desired.

      "Awful" you and Seungmin answered as one. The 2 hour session clearly weighted down both of you. "And a black americano as well, Woo" you added, reaching into your bag to pull out your wallet. 

        A hand fell on top of yours stopping you and you turned towards the boy, a question in your eyes. He shook his head and answered "You don't have to buy me coffee"

     "You are helping basically for free. A coffee isn't much" you cheered back. Giving your card to a awaiting Wooyoung, he passed it over the machine quickly before giving it back. 

     "Were are you heading now?" He asked as he prompted his head on the counter. 

      "We were thinking about taking a walk in the park near by. You know... the one with the garden" you absentmindedly returned as you scanned the place, not telling him that it was in fact Seungmin that informed you about its existence, mere minutes before. 

     And score. At the far away corner sat a certain snow white. Target required "Woo ,I will talk to you later. We are still on for Sunday right?" You threw, getting a response you didn't pay any attention to and strode towards your prey. A tug on your arm halted you, a grim Seungmin shaking his head greeted you, but you promptly ignored his whines and mouthed a 'come on'. You reached the table rather quickly and called "Soojin! What is my favorite customer doing?!" 

       The brunette turned with a smile on her face "Favorite customer huh? You say that to everyone" she teased you, good natured.

      "Pss no!.. Only on regulars" you commented, giving her a wink, which made her let out a quiet giggle, before her gaze shifted behind me.. bingo. You also threw a look to the boy that stood behind you, almost as if he was hiding behind his mom. "That's my new tutor, Kim Seungmin. He really saved me. This is Lee Soojin, she comes by often so I guess you will be seeing each other" you finished, turning your body sideways so more of Seungmin could be shown. No that you could hide him, you snorted. 

        "Nice to meet you" she showed a bright welcoming smile at him, that quite literally made him shake. You couldn't blame him through, if you had been in his shoes, you would have fell on your knees too. 

        "You too" he quietly said, looking at the table and avoiding eye contact at all means. You looked at him, trying to control your laughter.

       "Well.. we have to get going! But I will see you around "you waved, throwing a smile at the rest of her group and tugged your tutor along with you.

   You waited until you two were no longer visible throughout the windows and turned to him, hands behind your back and your foot awkwardly scratching the ground and said in a manly voice that in no way resembles the one you mocked. "Y-You t-too" you mumbled, looking at him from underneath your lashes.        His face was comical. His jaw was clenched hard and his ears were an adorable shade of red. "Shut up" he said, looking everywhere else but you. 

       "Come on! Let's get you your photos, doc"

      The Instagram business went well. The  park was a lovely place to get the photos you needed, even with your uncooperative model. His friends cheered and howled, welcoming him to the civilized world. Two days later, your first story starring him at the library (unknown to him) with the caption: 'study session with @kim_seungmin' had  earned him a follow from The Lee Soojin.               Instagram has became your main form of communication as well, it started with you sending memes that reminded you of him, mainly Squidward memes, and proceed with him spamming you with math questions. A look in your notifications was truly a nightmare now. You learned that the boy was more on the grumpy side, but had always had good intentions. Minho had let it slip that, he had an alarm on his phone especially to remind him to send you your insta-homework. You also discovered that he also shared a great love for kdramas, similar to your own. Contrary to the first meeting where he uttered only a couple of words, he spoke more comfortably now, not less savage but you could usually find him in a conversationable mood. Your quick tongue and his unbothered nature made you a interesting duo. And a duo that always had a target. Most often than not, poor Jisung had the short stick on this deal. 

         October was nearly over and you were excelling. Seungmin, on the other side, was not making so much progress with Soojin. Sure.. now he was talking a little bit with her in the coffee shop, when their tables were near.      And sure, they were exchanging likes on insta, but was that enough? On top of that, Eric was still regularly hanging around Soojin and that was making you uneasy. What if Seungmin decided to call the deal off, if they got together? What would happen to you then?

      That evening, you were meeting up with the girls so you reluctantly you picked yourself up and headed to your bathroom to get ready. Your dim lighting complimented your tired face. Or rather it didn't. It was a few weeks of that feverish schedule and you were begging to tire, but you shook yourself. 

   Put on some concealer and your best jeans, you said to yourself and soon enough you were braving the cold, in order to get some alcohol in you. 

          As soon as you entered the local bar, you took a look around you. Almost all of the booths were full, the jocks that were by the pool tables were howling loudly and the bar was half full of people trying to get their poisons. From the corner of your eye, you saw a sudden movement. Yuqi was waving at you, as Ryunjin and Yuna were giggling over who knows what number cocktails of the night. You broke out a smile and made your way over to them, avoiding busy waiters and drunk bodies. You took a seat in the enormous red couch by Yuqi and greeted the others. 

         "Won't Lisa and Rosie be joining us?" You asked, as you took a hold of the menu, already knowing you would order your usual Daquiri, but scanning it nonetheless. 

       "Nah, Lisa is doing two solos at the school festival and is freaking out. Rosie..is mental support, I guess" Ryunjin informed you as she sipped on her drink. You nodded and took a look around the bar. 

     Your waiter was nowhere on sight. But you understood, if you worked at a place like this you wouldn't be able to keep up with everyone either. But you did catch a quick glimpse of a particular sassy brunette on the dance floor. Minho did know how to have fun, that was certain by the smiles of his companions and the way they seemed to want to get closer to him. You wondered if your grumpy tutor lurked somewhere near. But a quick look at the place revealed a happy Jisung with two anonymous blondes by his side. You made a mental note to stop by and greet them later. 

        "What are we looking at?" A voice whispered, rather loudly, in your ear. You turned to Yuqi, grimacing, but answering all the same.

        "I spotted Minho on the dance floor and I was wondering if Seungmin was here" you truthfully replied. 

         She craned her neck to catch a glimpse of Minho as well. She looked at him way more than the respectable time, so you leaned in and tapped at her chin, a knowing look on your face. She chuckled but didn't deny anything. "You know for someone who you described as emotionally constipated, you get rather along with him" 

      You shrugged. "He was a little...shy in the beginning. All glares and moody. Now he is just... fun to tease" you huffed as you remembered him speaking so fast, almost rapping, when you told him that you hadn't completed a couple of exercises or him going red on the face from frustration when you couldn't understand a solution. "My biggest problem now is that he can't talk to Soojin!" Your deal was a known fact among your friends, that you have swore to secrecy. "He is cute, he is smart, once you get over the first shock he is pleasant to be around! Why he can't score a date with her?!" You wailed, dramatically flopping on the table. 

      "You should keep him to yourself, if he is that great" Yuna proposed, laughing as soon as you gave her the stink eye.

      "Why don't you tell him to come to the festival? Soojin is performing. He can come by the backstage, compliment her a little. Oh! Oh! Maybe ask her to go to a little walk around the festival!!" Ryunjin clapped, excited about her idea. 

       It wasn't so bad. Rather it was a rather good idea.

       "My sweet sweet genius!" You proclaimed, throwing your hands up in the air. "That's it!"

      As if the universe agreed and decided to reward you, your waiter appeared. So with a drink in your near future and a good plan to match, you enjoyed the rest of your evening. 

   "I am just saying, that you could be a lot more productive if instead of going out, you studied" He said, as he slid your red highlighted notebook back to you. 

     "You say that as if I am out everyday! I went out a Friday night to have a drink! Kill me!" You sassed as he signed and turned to his own workload.

     A moment passed and then two.

    You looked over at him under your lashes, biting your lips. Now it was just as good as any time you guessed. "Seungmin" you whispered. 

      Upon hearing the quiet call of his name he turned his head towards you. "You solved it?" He leaned closer only to see the math problem in front of you half solved and you looking at him. "Come on. We have done this. I am not helping you. Think again and solve it" he said almost soullessly, returning to his own homework. 

        "No no. I wanted to ask you something" you said, fumbling with your pen. "You.. haven't made so much progress with..you know who" you grimaced, remembering how many times you have uttered her name and Seungmin have immediately shut you up by placing his hand hastily over your mouth. Voldemort had she became.

      He let out a quiet sign, resting his head on the table. "Yeah..I mean we talk a little but.."

        "But not enough" you completed his sentence "Can I ..propose something?Why don't you try getting her a coffee and sit there with her?" You whispered, reaching your hand to play absentmindedly with your notebook. 

         "Yeah, I could do that" he mumbled as he straighten himself up, leaning onto his chair instead.  

         "I have an other proposal." You said, adopting his previous position and leaning onto the table. 

         "You scare me" he replied drily, with a hint of smile playing on the corner of his lips. 

         "Why? I am spectacularly amazing and I have at least 70% ratio of success" he snorted at that but didn't comment further "As you know ..SHE is a dance major. Why don't we go to see her performance? You say a few nice things to her, give her a smile, you know, tell her a 'I will see you around' Maybe offer a walk around the festival? We have to get her to notice you" 

         He looked everywhere but me, such simple conversations still managing to embarrass him. "That would be..nice" 

          "Perfect! I have already gotten you a ticket!" you cheered, collecting a few looks by the surrounding students. That's why you detested the library, quiet wasn't your forte. 

          At the sound of that he stilled and turned to look at you. "You won't come with me?" He looked like a deer caught in your car's headlights. You compared his current look with the void ironic silent that greeted you the first time.

          "I mean...I am coming. I have tickets to see Ryunjin and Yuna perform. I didn't know if you would like to stick with us" 

          "Yes, please" he replied instantly, probably imagining himself alone in the large crowd and recoiling. 

          "Sure. Wear something nice though! No hoodie! And for the love of God, no sweatpants!" You cried out, well aware of his usually fashion choices. He always looked comfy though, you like his style but he had to dress to impress for the festival.

           He stayed quiet in reaction to your request, mumbling under his breath 'what's wrong with my sweatpants' and 'wouldn't do that' but the rest of the session rolled smoothly without interruptions and talking about Voldemorts. 

        You were running as much as your heeled legs could muster. Of course you were late..but it wasn't your fault! If only those damn customers didn't come in last minute, maybe you would have time to go shower and get ready like a normal person.  

      Your phone vibrated in your hand, no wonder the others were searching for you. You answered the call not looking at the name on your screen. "I am coming!" You panted. 

      "I am waiting by the front entrance" a deep voice answered, taking you by surprise.

      "Seungmin?" You called, unsure. 

      "Yeah. Now come on" he said and hung up.

      You gathered your strength and ran the remaining distance. As you reached the entrance you looked around, you tried to locate him. You found him by the door, a lean body waiting for you. He had heard your advice. Black slacks, a simple white T-shirt underneath and a grey coat adored his frame. He looked put together and a perfect image of a boyfriend. You jogged lightly towards him. "Hey! You look nice. 100% boyfriend material" you complimented. 

       He shyly smiled at you and cocked his head inside. "Come Yuqi saved us seats. What took you so long?" He questioned as he turned to walk to the theater.

        "Some customers came last minute and I couldn't leave. I never have gotten ready that quickly" you laughed, avoiding bodies that were threatening to crush you. He took your forearm and guided you to your seats. 

        "It's okay." he comforted you. 

        You looked up amused and surprised. "I never thought that the Kim Seungmin would tell me it's okay to be late" you teased. 

        He huffed and lead you to the seats, where Yuqi and Jisung awaited you while discussing the music he had produced for one of the acts. You waved at them and settled on your seat, readying yourself for the spectacle. And you were just on time. You were amazed by the elegant lines of the dancers and the sharp moves, that were enhanced by the booming sound of the bass. The couples, that were twirling on stage, stole your breath and the solo performances were equally enchanting. 

        "Aren't they so cool?" You whispered to Seungmin, feeling bad that he was singled out. You were sitting between him and his friends so he stayed mostly quiet, except when he replied to your humorous comments. 

        "Yeah, I couldn't do that in a million years" he agreed, still captivated by the performance. All too soon the performances were over and the curtains fell. 

        You stretched, pulling yourself out of the uncomfortable seat and nodding to Seungmin "Come on! Let's go and give our congratulations to the 'chef'" you joked as you pulled him up.  "Yuqi we will catch up with you outside,ok?" She nodded her consent and dragged Jisung away, possibly to get some food. So you turned to your own companion who waited you patiently..not that he had an other choice as he didn't know the backstage as you did. "Come on lover boy, let's go to your ballerina"

        He grimaced but complied, following you into the dark backstage. You turned and turned until you catch a glimpse of Soojin. Then you promptly stopped and turned to him, fixing his clothes and fussing over him. He tried to avoid your touch but seeing you not giving up, he simply gave up. You fixed his hair as well, passing a hand threw them and perfecting each straw so they framed his face beautifully. "Okay. You got this" you said pushing him lightly to the door. 

        "Wait! You are not coming?!" he said, panic filling his eyes as a hand raised to clutch your wrist.

        "No! You go and tell her she's beautiful and if she wants to hang out after the show" 

        He opened his mouth to argue, but you pushed with more force and he stumbled into the room. The noise all around the place didn't exactly help you to listen in on their conversation, so a few minutes passed and you didn't know if that was a good sign or a bad one. But the door suddenly opened and Seungmin crossed the border throwing a careless 'I will see you around' over his shoulder. After the door closed though, he clutched his heart and let out a troubled sign. Immediately you were on his face.

        "How did it go? What did you say to her? She didn't want to come to the walk?" You buzzed, shifting your weight, almost circling around him.

         "Can you calm down for a moment?" He said, tugging at his collar "She said thank you and that she appreciates that I came. She said that she has plans but she will see me around in the coffee shop." 

         "Such a shame.I expected her to go with you." you pouted, disappointed. You had to fix him up in order to continue with this deal. You casted a glance towards him, to find him watching the space across you. You followed his gaze and located a blonde figure lounging there. Eric, who probably came to give his own congratulations. 

         "Maybe I can get her a cup of coffee when I see her again?" He quietly mumbled, gaze not straying from Eric's figure. 

         "Yeah" you agreed, eyes stuck in that direction too. But quickly you shook yourself out of your stupor. "Since you are free how about a stroll around the festival? I wanna go to the waffle station. I heard they are to die for" you whistled, already imagining the sweet chocolate melting in your mouth.

         He looked down on the floor for a beat, until you nudged him playfully. He met your stare but the discouraged look didn't leave him. 

         "You don't have to look down. You played your cards and lost. It's okay. There will be other opportunities. Now come with me" you took a hold of his jacket, gently moving him towards the exit. 

       He didn't say anything but moved along. 

       Once outside you were contemplating where to go. The food stands where a must and you voice that.

        "Okay. Plan." You said, turning to your companion who seemed equally as lost as you. "I wanna stop by the food stands. I heard this year they have a theme about foods around the world. Other than that I have no clue what is there" 

        "Umm okay. We can stop by. Not something spicy though. I can't really eat it" he said, not really here. He looked dazed at the festival. 

        You looked up at him, squinting. "Where do you wanna go?" 

        He still looked lost. Maybe he had been more hurt than you thought. Well you could distract.

        "Seungminnie!" you whined, hoping to distract him. And it worked by the distasteful scoff that took over his face. 

        "Don't call me that" he puffed and strode to whichever direction his feet took him. Hopefully for you, to the food section. 

        "Why?" Giggling, you took a look around. You were currently to the craft section. You marveled at the things that the student body managed to put together "But seriously what do you like to do? I never heard you mentioning hobbies" 

        "I like to take pictures. I took some nice shots at the park" he said, quietly.

        "Ohh that's how you knew about the park! Show me later some. That's really cool" you returned. "And? What else?" you questioned. 

        "I like baseball" he answered simply.

        "Oh! Oh! Which team?" You asked as your attention was snatched from a very nice pair of earrings to him. 

        "SK Wyverns" he replied, hesitantly. "You like baseball?" Suddenly focusing on you, you knew it was rare for women to like sports but you didn't know if you feel offended by his surprise.

        "Nahh my old man watches it so I know a couple of teams. He isn't a fan of that one though" you commented.

        "Which one he likes?"he asked, intrigued. 

        "Something heroes" you said, tapping your chin. You couldn't remember their name for the life of you!

        "Kiwoom Heroes! Over the Wyverns! Really now?!" He exclaimed, eyes wide and bewildered at your father's preferences. The scrunching of his nose betrayed his true dislike towards the team.

       "Hey don't tell it to me! Tell him that!" You joked as the sparkly earrings stole your attention again. The blue sparkling light caught your attention, the gold only enhancing their beauty. You shook your head. You weren't here to buy jewelry. You were here to eat. 

       "What do you like to do?" He asked as he took in his surroundings too. He looked more relaxed now, hands crossed at the back, head moving wherever to take in all of the stations. 

        "I don't have really the time to spare. If I do.. I guess a movie or some drinks with friends." You never really were into something particular. A simple time could be a good time too. 

         "Yeah I noticed. How come you are always working? Don't you want some time of?" He asked, examinating you more now.

         "Yeah it would be. But I need the money. And besides I stir up enough trouble when I don't have time in my hands. Could you imagine me with time to spare?" You raised your eyebrows at an alarming pace to empathize the fact. He scoffed, clearly amused.

       "God no. I wouldn't like to see that!" He laughed behind his hand. 

       "Exactl-" you started but an aroma stole your attention. A chocolatey rich aroma, that came from the stand ahead. "Seungmin, the sweets!" You exclaimed and thrusted forward, literally dragging him along. 

         "On the other hand.. with your limited attention span how bad could it be?" He sassed, but turned towards the chocolatey dough. "We will take two" he said to the boy in the cashier. 

         You reached in your bag to take out your purse, but you noticed Seungmin taking out double the amount that was required and give it to the cashier. "Hey! What are you doing? I can pay for mine!" you pouted. 

         "Too late!"he replied, having already paid and grabbed the sweets. You took your own while he took a bite from the dough. His eyes widened comically and he pointed at it with his mouth full. You laughed, but your reaction was very much the same as his when you took your first bite. 

        "I will pay for the next round" you said as you started your rounds again. This time heading towards the games. 

         "Sounds good" he said, the desert on his hands half way eaten. Men you thought, they could eat anything within seconds. 

         You wondered around for a bit. You tried the trivia game they hosted, you were tremendously bad at it while Seungmin tremendously good. You tried the maze they made up by cardboards and some other poorly made materials, but you both had a good sense of direction and got out pretty easily. One look at the karaoke stand had you both running for the hills and you ended up in front of an other food stand. But to the bad luck of Seungmin, the spices didn't sit right with him so here he was gulping water as if his life was depending on him.

       As you waited for him to calm his taste buds down, you were looking around. You spotted something in the far corner, a enormous cube, painted pink but the color was peeling away revealing the grey mass underneath. But none the less you jumped and shook Seungmin, pointing aggressively at the photo booth. "Let's go take some pictures" 

       "Now?!" he coughed, still red in the face. "I am dying!" 

       You looked at him and dead serious you replied "Well..die later" 

       He looked at you perplexed, but once again he let himself be dragged by you. So you got in first and patted the space by your side, which he dutiful filled. You chose a simple frame and a playful one, that one  he frowned upon. But you ignored him and passed an arm around him, squishing yourself into his arms in order to get into the frame. You feel him stiffen momentarily so you quickly looked up. You were a little too close for comfort, you could almost count his eyelashes. He looked.. pretty from this close. His eyes big, looking down at you slightly more wide than normal. His skin was so smooth it seemed like marble. 

       "Sorry" You said, as you shifted away, giving him more space to breathe.

       "Um..it's okay. Shall we?" he said and faced the poor quality camera again, so you leaned in (not too close) and stroke a ridiculous pose with your eyes crossed and tongue out. You turned as soon as the sound ticked of and saw Seungmin poker faced behind you. 

       "Come onn. Humor me" you teased. So he did. He brought his hand over his face in a cute v pose. You gleefully turned around in a similar pose. For your last click you just smiled at the camera, leaving Seungmin to fend on his own. You soon paid for two copies and left the booth. As you were handing Seungmin his own, you heard your familiar ringtone pierce the air. Your phone, you realized. So you opened your bag, manically searching for it, finding it at the bottom of your bag and breathlessly answered. 

       "Y/N!" A raspy voice boomed through the speaker. 

       "Yuqi" you cheered. 

       "We are at Tony's. Fancy coming?"she shouted into the line so you can hear her above the music and the noise. "Jisung is with me. And we bumped into Minho too. If you are still with Seungmin stop by!"

       "Roger that."you said and you hung up. You turned to your tutor, who was observing whoever was left at the fair.

       "Yuqi is with Jisung and Minho at Tony's. Wanna go?" You asked as you began to descend the stairs, that lead to the front entrance of the school.

       "An unlikely combination." he noted as he strolled right beside you. The descend was supposed to be easy but your heeled boots hurt your feet now and the breeze was getting stronger for your liking, lightly blowing your hair into your face. 

       "What can I say?" you said as you tried to get your locks away from your face. "You wanna come?" 

       He stayed quiet for a while. Gazing at the remaining tents that the students were scruffing to pick up, so they can party the night away. 

       "Yeah. I will come. For a little while" he replied at last, focusing on you. 

       You smiled at him, strangely happy your new friend decided to join you. So you made your way to the bar.

 With Seungmin by your side.

And your heart beating abnormally loud in your chest.

     It was a slow day in the cafe.

     Wooyoung and you were absent-mindedly cleaning, while talking about your weekend plans. The flow of people was steady, close to none at the time, so you tried to get the shop ready for the next shift. You looked over the supplies you had gathered. Cups? Check. Coffee? Check. Lids? Check. What was missing? You thought as you skimmed the shelves. Oh! The straws! 

    "Wooyoung! Do we have any straws over there?" You called, hand wandering inside the low cupboard in order to feel around for any stray sets. 

    He lowered himself to see into the other supply cupboard, with a quick look he confirmed your thoughts. "Nope!" 

     You grumbled under your breath. "Going to grab some from the back!" You called as you headed to the back room, where your supplies were stored.

    It was not a big room, storage shelves decorated every wall and it had no window nor any other form of natural lighting, except from the tiny bare bulb above your head. You switched it on and took a look around, trying to locate the troublesome straws. In the end you found them on the highest shelf of the stock room on the far right corner. 

 Whose brilliant idea was this? 

  No one in the coffee shop could boast about their height so the supplies usually where at a reasonable height for you. Except these darn straws! 

      "For fuck's sake.!" you spat out as you dragged the small ladder behind the door to help you up. You climbed it easily and took hold of the straws. But in your haste to finish your task, you knocked over a box.

        You blew a breath out and climbed back down. You let the packet of straws fall from your grasp and hosted the medium sized box in your arms. You climbed the ladder quickly, the box obscuring your vision. You placed the merchandise in the very edge of the shelf and pushed it with as much strength as you could. But as it seemed you needed to hit the gym sooner than later as your strength was proving not to be enough. You pushed even harder going on you tippy toes to get the box into a safer position and then you heard it. You heard the sound before your eyes caught up.

 The awful sound of the ladder tipping. Suddenly your vision tipped, just as the ladder did and you were falling. You thrashed your hands out in hopes of softening your fall, but it was of no use. You landed on the floor on your side, with an intense pain piercing your left ankle. 

         You sucked your teeth in response to the pain travelling up your leg. Fuck! That was exactly what you didn't need right now. You tried to get up and put some pressure on your leg only to stumble and nearly fall flat on the floor again. 

         Desperate situations required desperate solutions "Wooyoung!" You wailed loud enough for the whole store to hear. And when you didn't get an immediate response you wailed even louder. Till the sound of a pair of feet, running to you, was heard. 

 The door was thrown open and a dramatic I'm gasp cut through the air. "Y/N! What happened? Are you okay?" He fretted as he attempted to lift you up.

 Key word. 

Attempted. 

    As Wooyoung lifted you up, you put pressure on your bad leg almost falling down again. "Ouch!" you hissed out, grinding your teeth in order not to whine out loud. This time more carefully, Wooyoung lifted you and kept you close at his side so he can manage your weight. 

         "What happened?!" He asked incredulously as he moved you to the staff room.

       "I fell from the ladder. I must have twisted my ankle, it fucking hurts when I try to stand" you pouted, looking down at your feet. It didn't look swollen nor bruised. Maybe you had gotten lucky and it was just a strain.

         After a quick visit to the doctor, courtesy of your very fretty boss, he confirmed that you had indeed gotten lucky and that it was a sprain that. Rest was prescripted and you should be fine in three days time. 

    Your boss was overjoyed, that she didn't have to pay you medical leave or worse. She even happily offered you a ride back home as you couldn't quite move easily. You thanked her, truly grateful that you wouldn't have to walk all the way back to your apartment by yourself. 

   Once you were in the apartment you let yourself ungracefully plop down on your bed and sign. This incident would take you back a few days. Days you could spend working.. studying...doing everything else besides sitting on your ass. 

         You heaved a sign of exaggeration and pulled out your phone. You had a lesson with Seungmin today and you would have to cancel. You couldn't go to the library like this and he had made clear that he would not go out of his way to come to your apartment.

 You bit your lips, deciding what to write. A simple and nice message would do. 

 A skull emoji? Really? But given his aloof personality it oddly suited him. You shrugged it off and decided rest and a bowl of warm food would be the best for you. 

    Two episodes in your new series and your telephone was ringing. You felt around your covers for your phone and once your hand come in contact with it, you answered without a second thought. 

       "Hello?"  

       "Hello" A gruff voice greeted. 

    You sat up, suddenly more aware. You weren't expecting a call from him."Seungmin?"

       "Yes, it's me" he confirmed quietly.

       You bit your lips. Have you forgotten to write something on your text? Had you forgotten your homework? "Can I help you?"

       "I heard that you fell today and require rest. Is this the reason you cancelled our lesson today?" He asked, dare you say, concerned. He didn't sound like he was craving a path on his room out of worry but he cared enough to ring you up. It was oddly sweet of him.

       "Yeah.. the doctor suggested rest. Like 3 days top" you said, absentmindedly, but soon paused. "Does this change your programme?" You fretted, hands going through your hair, succeeding only in messing it up further.

        "Not much but.. We can have our lesson tomorrow.. At your house" he quietly proposed.

        He had made sure not to include your home at the possible study places. Maybe it made him uncomfortable..was it out of concern for you? The surprises didn't ceased. After a brief hesitation you asked "Are you sure?"

        "Yeah. It's not like you are bored walking to the library. You are injured. I am not that cruel to make you walk till there" he said in astonishment. 

      You suppose he was not. "I really appreciate it, Seungmin. Thank you"  you whispered.

       A humm was heard from the other line before asking "Same hour tomorrow?" 

        "Yeah. Yeah. Bye" You muttered before hanging up. 

        Huh. You fully expected him to take advantage of his free day. Instead here he was calling you to ask you if you were okay and arranging tomorrow's date.

 He was nicer than you expected. 

You felt warmer than before.

    The buzzer let you know that Seungmin had arrived.

    With a grunt you stood on your good leg and hopped over to your door to buzz him in. Leaving the door ajar so he could get in, you hopped back to your kitchen table, where you had laid your books.  

    You could hear his steps as he made his way to your apartment, the instructions you had provided guiding him. You heard him pause outside your door, unsure whether to enter or not, based on it's open state. You giggled and called him over "I left it open for you! Come on in!" 

    He stepped over the threshold and inspected your house. Well... house was a bit of a stretch. Your apartment was rather small, but had a homey and cozy feeling to it. The walls were painted a beige that didn't express you, but it was a requirement of your landlord.     

 You had tried to make it better by hanging artwork all over the apartment. Some where of land scapes you enjoyed, some of quotes that you favoured and some of your close friends and family. Your couch, that also served as your bed, was placed against the wall facing your spacious wardrobe and a bookcase that took way too much time to build.

     Your kitchen was small, some of its wooden surface were begging to submit to time, but you used it well. Plenty of fake plants were decorating it, giving it a splash of color that it needed. Once upon a time you tried to decorating with living breathing plants but... your skills proved not to be up for the challenge. 

      Your bathroom completed the wonderful set. A small white thing that consisted the only other door in the apartment, besides the threshold.

     Seungmin stood still at your threshold, unsure how to move in your space. You shook your head and guided him to leave his things by your couch and join you. He slowly did and approached as fast as a platypus. 

      You got up, careful not to apply much pressure on your bad leg and asked the awkward boy "Coffee?" 

      He looked you as if in thought. "Are you supposed to be standing?" 

      You shrugged, already hopping over to your counter. "I sprained it, I didn't break it so I should be fine. Want some cookies?" You asked, not bothering to turn to him as you were focused on the task. 

      "No, thank you" he said as he watched you make him coffee "Are you sure you're okay? Want some help?"he pressured.

      You did turn to look at him then. He was attentively looking at you from his seat, alert as he expected you to fall over.

      "What did Wooyoung said to you?" You joked as you leaned back. 

       "He said that you fell from a ladder. He didn't heard the crash, but he heard you shouting for help" he parroted back immediately, brows furrowing. 

       "Always the drama queen" you mumbled under your breath, but the boy heard you letting a chuckle at your words. "I am fine. Really. But thanks for the concern and thoughtfulness" 

       He looked at you oddly before turning you his back and reaching inside of his backpack to pull out the necessary items. "Minho had injured his leg last year. It took him a while to recover. He had it bad. But looking at you now.. you do seem fine. So finish that coffee and come here. We should begin" 

       "Yes sir. Right away sir!" You saluted. A small smile your only reply. 

     "Hey Puppy" 

     "Do NOT call me that" he stated, not even bothering to acknowledge you. You heard his sister calling him that over the phone, ever since you haven't missed the chance to call him that. He hated it, of course.

     "Say...You said you have read the SKZflix series right?"you wondered aloud and that was enough to catch his attention. He slightly turned his body towards you and stopped typing on his laptop. 

      "Yeah..why?" He asked, now giving you his full attention. He lifted his hand to pull his glasses away, rubbing his eyes tiredly. He needed more rest.

      "Well, you know that they are making a movie-"you started but was rudely interrupted.

      "Obviously" he sassed, scrunching his nose at you.

      You rolled your eyes at him. "Well it comes out next Friday. And I was wondering if you wanna..maybe.. go?"you mumbled the last part.

      He blinked in surprise. The last month and a half it was not strange for our groups to merge here and there. In fact, you have spend several evenings with your grumpy tutor and his sassy group. They now visit your workplace a lot more, even when Jisung has a day off. Yuna, Ryunjin and Minho, being all dance majors, have a lot of classes together and often end up having lunch together while the rest of you fill the table.You and Seungmin usually come together because your hours matched and your buildings are close. Jisung arrives always fashionably late and Wooyoung pops out here and there.

     Even though you spend a lot of days together, be it at school or outside of it, you have never hangout alone together. But it wasn't like you were never alone. But, never, neither you nor Seungmin have made such plans. But as soon as you saw the posters, your first thought was him. 

      Seungmin and you often talked about the movies and books you enjoyed and, to your surprise, your tastes matched. When you shared your favourite series you didn't expect the enthusiastic reaction. It seemed he was a hug fan as well. So it was only natural to think of him.

        "Sure" he said, after his initial surprise. "What time is the show?" He asked as a hand came to rub his nape. 

         "I don't know. I simply saw the posters. We can swing by after to see, if you are up to it" you said, fumbling with the paper in front of you. You couldn't keep still for some reason. 

         ".. Yeah, let's do that" he said, giving you a small smile.

   Days flew by quickly. Tomorrow was the screening for the movie and you were so excited. You contemplated dressing up as the main character, but you quickly disregarded the idea, thinking about the turned up noses and stares you would get. 

    You were on your way out when you felt your phone buzz and the familiar song filled the atmosphere. You fished it out of your pocket and checked the caller. Puppy, it read. 

    "Hel-" You squeaked as you balanced your phone in your shoulders to lock the door. 

    "She asked me out!" Seungmin shouted through the phone. His tone bright and happy, as if he had won the lotto. 

     You paused your motions, taking better hold of your phone. She asked him out? Soojin? When? What has you missed?

     "Soojin asked you out..?"you slowly repeated, trying to focus.

     "Yes! We were talking since the festival you know! She said that there is a photography exhibit at the center tomorrow so she invited me to go! She said she felt bad that she couldn't go with me when I asked her after the performance" he eagerly continued, happy with the date he scored. 

     "Tomorrow?"you asked as if you were lagging. Tomorrow was your movie. 

     "Yes! I know I told you I would go with you to the SKZflix... Do you think we can reschedule? I would own you a big one" he rushed to say, explaining himself. 

     You bit your lip hard enough to draw blood. They have known each other for nearly 2 months and they decide to go out now? Now that you had plans to watch the premiere? A sudden itch on your skin, your hands couldn't keep still. But what could you say? No?

     "..yeah. That's alright Seungmin. I mean- it's a bummer that you'll.. miss the movie. But- umm have fun at your date!"you rumbled, shifting uncomfortably. 

     "Thank you! We can still watch it together at my house some time later. Minho bought a pair of new speakers so he can practice at home. They help him to 'hear the music better' or whatever that means. They have amazing sound though, I give him that" he continued, happiness clear in his voice. On the other hand, you were distracted. You barely managed to step away from your building, answering with hums and acknowledging him when necessary. When you had crossed over half the distance to your work, you decided that you couldn't keep up anymore.

      "...my partner didn't know this, so the teacher said-" you hesitated but you cut off his grumpy voice, rather rudely. His just wanted to speak about his day, but you wanted none of that at the moment. You wanted some quiet.

      "Seungmin I am at work now. We should hang up." You stated, tone flat. You prayed that he couldn't hear the noise around you through the speakers.

       "Oh..okay.. I will talk to you later" He paused briefly. You usually let him talk longer, you tried not to interrupt him when he was ranting. Not today, you guessed 

       "Yeah. Later" you mumbled the last part and cut off the connection. You kind of stood there for a moment.

 Breathing in and then out.

 It would be a long day today. 

You could just feel it.

        You ended up seeing the premiere with Hong Joong, who was available and a big fan as well. He had recently ended his something with Dami and he was in the mood for company. That's how you ended up in a restaurant after the movie, happily drinking your night away. 

      The next day Seungmin particularly skipped over to you, all smiles and giggles. You almost didn't want to ask about last night so you didn't. You sat at your usual desk and dived into the math problems. You had ignored the efforts he made to start small talk, choosing instead to focus on the numbers in front of you. 

      You managed to stay quiet a whole hour and a half before your curiosity got the better of you. You turned towards him, a little hesitant and not looking at him, you asked "How did it go with Soojin yesterday?"

    He paused his typing and turned to you with a small smile. "Good. We went to the fair and then we grabbed something to eat. We had a great time"

     You slowly looked up to the desks in front of you. "That's great, Seungmin. I hope it goes well" you murmured. You felt a little funny today, distracted, head above the clouds. It must have shown because you felt a hand being placed on your shoulder. You turned, dazed, towards him. He had a smile, a different one this time, as if he was asking you if you were alright. He voiced his concern soon after. "Are you alright?" He asked slowly. 

     You met his stare for what it seemed like the first time this evening. His eyes were full of concern for you. You felt bad that your moody ass was making him concerned, so you plastered a small smile and answered.

"I am alright. Just a little blue"

      He looked at you for a beat. "Do you want to..maybe watch the SKZflix together? I have the place to myself. Sorry for cancelling last minute yesterday" he regretfully said, his head lowering this time. 

       You looked him over and the first thing you thought, he was feeling guilty. You don't know what he was guilty about..but you oddly appreciated the thought. So you gave him a small smile "it's a deal" you chuckled.

Days flew by in a rapid pace.

Life was normal, if not a little bit hectic. Your days was full of classes, work and Seungmin. You woke up, went to uni, you ate, you went to work, on the days you didn't work you had your lessons with Seungmin. To say the least, you were exhausted. 

And it was shown clear as day. Either by your ... irritable attitude or by your awful appearance.

     "Girl you look awful. Like I-spend-all-week-doing-all-nighters-and-have-been-drinking-only-energy-drinks" she put out while she pitifully looked down at you. 

Upon hearing her, you lifted your head and looked her dead in the eyes. "What kind life have you been living?" You returned, tiredly.

      "One that doesn't require me to live like a zombie. When was the last time you rested or went out like a normal person?"she inquired while taking a long sip of her already dried up frapuccino, making your temples throb even harder. 

       When was the last time? You picked yourself up and thought about it. "Like.. two weeks ago? I watched a movie with Seungmin" you concluded.

     Yuqi raised her eyebrow at that, but didn't comment. Instead she wondered, tone full of promises "Can you take off the next Friday and Saturday?"

      You threw a glance at her. "I can run it by boss. Why?" You asked. 

      Her eyes were almost glowing. "It's party time" 

     "Say it again"

   You winced when his voice reached your end of the line. You weren't even asking for a cancellation! "Puppyy" you let out a long whine. 

     "I thought you said you were on schedule, Y/N" 

     "I am. I am just...tired, Seungmin. I am running around since September with little to no time to rest" you mumbled as you run your hand over your face, trying to wake yourself up a little. "I am not asking you to cancel...just move it to the next day?" You asked, hopefully.

     Grumbles could be heard over the line. "Fine, yes" A brief pause and then "Are you ok?" He asked, a little above a whisper. 

       You let out a breath. "Yeah, I...I choice that. I just want to rest for 2 days." You concluded.

      "Okay. I guess I will see you on Sunday. Don't sleep in" he warned, knowing full well your post drinking behavior by now. He had woken you up many times by now.

     "I won't!" You chuckled  "As for the Sunday part. I have a proposition.." you trailed off with a smirk on your face.

 "It's freaking cold!" Yuqi whined as she stepped out of the car.

       You also got out of the Uber you had to catch because of the stinging cold. 

      You were already regretting the dress you chose to wear, even if your knee high boots were covering most of your legs, the cold was hard to beat and was freezing your exposed legs to the bone. You hurried towards the entrance of the club you had agreed to meet with the rest of the group.

    As you neared the club two loud laughs could be heard from the queue, two laughs you could recognize anywhere due to the long hours you spend together. Jisung and Wooyoung stood in the queue joking, quite loudly as Minho and Seungmin stood there, nodding and smiling at the goofy jokes that were thrown at them. You were pleasantly surprised by their presence, you were sure that when you had proposed the idea to your grumpy tutor the answer would be shift and... negative. 

    The both had donned their winter coats so you couldn't see exactly what they were wearing, but you catch sight of a collar picking from the neck of Seungmin's coat. He had pushed his hair back and now his face were all angles and sharp lines. After months of being in his presence you still couldn't believe how handsome he was. 

      "Hi!" Yuqi cheered, capturing the groups attention. Even if she hadn't greeted them, she would've captured the attention - the pink iridescent dress she wore left no other choice, but to look at it. Yuna and you followed closely behind her, huddling in the queue along them. You exchanged pleasantries with everyone and a quick hug with Woo and took your place next to Seungmin. 

       "Well we'll look who we have here!" You puffed, your breath shown clearly in front of your face - almost like white smoke. You could feel your nose running, possibly ruining your make up and the crispy wind slapping your face.

    He clicked his tongue and gestured with his chin to Minho. "He dragged me. Said something about having fun." He huffed and puffed like a child that was being dragged to a family gathering by their parents. 

       "Oh come on, you grandpa! We will have plenty of fun! You'll see!" You said, jumping in place to keep yourself warm. You saw him briefly looking down at your attire and your legs before tearing his gaze to your face. You wondered if the flush on his face was from the likes of you or the wind. But you didn't have time to dwell on it or question him as the bouncer ushered you all in.

     Stepping inside, smoke filled your lungs and colourful lights blinded you. The warehouse, that was turned into a club, was full of swaying young bodies that cheered and drunk the night away. A anxious waiter showed to your table, that were basically two stands pushed together and certainly couldn't accommodate your large group but you hadn't had it in you to complain, you simply dumped your things into the tables and catch the nearest waiter to take your orders. 

      After your third drink you found yourself on the dance floor in between Yuqi and Wooyoung. With Wooyoung's hands on your waist and your own embracing Yuqi around her shoulders, you threw your head back as you let the music that played consume you. Giggles and smoke surrounded you as you let your hazy gaze wondered and it fell straight to a pair of moody eyes that watched you. You untangled yourself from the chaos that were your friends and you lightly treaded towards Seungmin.

     He somehow managed to find a chair into the chaos, which he dragged to your table and sat there, his first glass of the night still in his hand half empty. You reached him and threw an arm over his shoulders, his sitting position making things easier. He side glanced you but didn't react otherwise, choosing to bring his glass to his lips. 

     "Seungminnie why are you brooding?" You sing songed as you shook him playfully. Everything had a pleasant haziness that you were enjoying, even the smoke that was suffocating before started to gently caressing you and the lights just made everything prettier. Especially the boy beside you.

      "I am not brooding" he scoffed as he turned slightly towards you. "I am simply not enjoying myself. This isn't my scene" 

     "Well how are you gonna enjoy yourself when you are sitting here alone?" You pouted and tagged at his black shirt, noticing he had rolled up to his elbows due to the the heat in there. A ridiculous idea popped into your head, making weirdly sense into your clouded mind then. "Come dance with me!" 

       He gave you a look and turned away again  "I don't wanna dance. Go back to Wooyoung and Yuqi" he said, not looking at you. His focus was on the dance floor and you fleetingly thought that maybe Soojin was in there, if he knew she come here often and the only reason he was here was to catch her or if he was simply watching by the sidelines again, but you shook your head dismissing the thought. Instead you stepped in front of him, effectively cutting his view of the crowd and making him look at you. 

        You tugged gently at his hands, not altering a word, you smiled and nodded to the floor and he got up willingly. Rocking on your uncomfortable heels, you looked at him for a moment and replied "But I wanna dance with you" 

        He also gazed at you for a moment, signed before giving a brief nod. You slipped your hand in his, for fear he will change his mind, and tugged him at the dance floor . You found a space by the sidelines that wasn't as crowded as the centre of the floor and started swaying away to the Rihanna song that blasted through the speaker. He stood there swaying awkwardly, even from your tipsy point of view. So you drew closer and threw your hands around his shoulders, making him match your tempo. He freezed briefly before you felt hands slowly cradling your waist and hips, which you were moving with the music and body mimicking your gestures. You looked up at him throwing a smile, hoping you were helping him relax and enjoy himself.

     He was looking down at you with a unrecognisable look. His brows was furrowed and his eyes lidded. His eyes looked more smothering and hot than normal under the red lights. So you did what your hazy mind told you and stepped even closer, hands tangling in the hair on his nape. The song, as if to prevent you, changed to something quicker and fun making you break the intense eye contact and swing wildly with him. 

       The songs were changing from pop to old rocks to rap music you both didn't know well but you didn't move from your spot, continuing dancing with each other. Tem songs have pasted until the DJ settled to a slow piece, that allowed tou to catch your breaths. You were both smiling, making grimaces and weird dance moves to entertain yourselves.            You were once again in each other's embrace, moving slowly. You tip toed to whisper in his ears "See? Aren't you having fun?"

    His breath fanned your jaw and neck as he draw even more near and whispered "Yeah" 

      You turned your head to look at him and realized you were inches apart. You could see the lights reflected in his eyes, a swirling mess of colours, much alike to what you were feeling now. His sharp features looked painfully good and mixed with the smell of his musky cologne, it made you more dizzy than the drinks you previously had. His lips, unreasonably red and inviting, parted lightly and only then you realized you were looking at his mouth. You pulled your gaze to his eyes, only to see his gaze lifting up to meet yours, painfully obvious that he followed the same path as you. You could feel the distance between your lips getting smaller and his hands holding you just a bit tighter as you both moved closer to shorten the distance-

        "Y/N!" A loud voice pulled you out of your daydream. You took a step back out of Seungmin's arms and turned to the direction of the call, only to see a pink clad figure approaching. "I looked all over for you! Come with me for a moment, please?" She wrapped herself around your form, batting her glittery eyelashes at you. You laughed and nodded, casting a glance at your partner.

      "Go ahead. I will go order a drink" Seungmin said as he passed a hand through his already disheveled hair. Before you could answer him, your friend started dragging you away. So you called over your shoulder to wait for you by the bar, by the smile he sent over his shoulder, you took it as a sign of consent.

      You waved your way through the crowd, which was getting larger as the night went by and found the toilet tucked away in a corner. The line, fortunately, wasn't unfathomably big so you leaned by the wall awaiting your turns.

       "Girl what was that on the dance floor?" Yuqi inquired as she came to stand in front of you. Not a sight of sweat on her skin, despite the way she was jumping on the dance floor. You sure you looked like a mess.

      "What?" You asked as you looked over the tacky bathroom, from the papers that littered the ground to the overflowing baskets by the sinks. 

        "Don't what me. You and Seungmin, of course. I swear you were ready to kiss, if I hadn't walked in" she gassed, leaning even more towards you. "Did I do something stupid?" 

     A brief irritation passed over you, before shaking your head to clear it from the alcohol you consumed. "It wasn't like that. We were just talking, maybe it looked weird from your angle. Besides he likes someone else." You dismissed as you moved deeper into the bathroom. 

         "Are you sure? You looked pretty comfy to me." She questioned, giving you her pooch as she reached an empty bathroom stall. 

          "I mean.. yeah. We are close" You answered, facing the mirror. Your make up wasn't totally ruined, but you could see a faint shine to your face due to the heat and all the dancing you were doing. You quickly passed your hands through your locks, ruffling them just right. Before reaching into Yuqi's bag and reapplying the lipstick on your face. You didn't mind the slightly different shade. You closed it up and waited for your companion to exit the stall. Once she did exit and after a couple of 'are you sure' questions, you braved the crowd once again, reaching your table in a agonizing slow pace. 

       When you did arrive, you saw the lone figures of Seungmin and Minho at the table, the others were missing. Even after a quick scan of the dance floor you only managed to pinpoint a dancing Jisung and a Ryunjin chilling with a couple girlfriends' of hers. Wooyoung wasn't anywhere to be found, but you had learned better than to question that. 

      "Wanna have shots?" You asked. The buzz was going away and you couldn't have that, especially that early into the night. 

         "You already had 3 drinks"  Seungmin said, leaning in his chair once again. Minho sipped on his drink of choice but didn't give a negative reply yet, seemingly watching the scene unfold. 

            "Blasphemy! I only had two. Come on three shots!" You raved as you bounced, along with Yuqi, who you didn't have to get consent. 

"Yeah! Let's have some shots!" Her booming voice, parroted. 

         "One" he said, ignoring your pouty lips and puppy eyes. 

         "Two" you challenged, already making your way to the bar, giggling along the way with Yuqi. 

         Once you reached the bar, you waved the pretty bartender over and placed your orders. 4 shots of tequila. You gave the boys their own, noticing Seungmin looked at the glass like it was poison. You cheered, clinked your glasses and off you went to the dance floor, where you ended up in the arms of your handsome tutor. As the night went the one shot became two, and then three, and then four and then you lost count. The only thing that was on your mind was the music, the laughter and the arms that supported you. 

       Suddenly the world was twirling along with you and your eyes closed. When you opened your eyes again, darkness greeted you. You felt yourself moving but not really, and your head leaning on a surface, that was uncomfortable and digging on your cheek. You made to move but a warm voice told you not to and as a warm sensation racked your back, darkness took over again. 

      Your eyes fluttered open once again,but this time, light was hitting your face. 

      You groaned as the first thing you felt was a raging headache. How much did you drink? You opened your eyes only to see that you were in bed, blanket tightly wrapped around your frame in order to keep warm. How did you get home? You sat up, rubbing the sleep from your eyes and stretching your body. You could feel your legs killing you, even though you hadn't used them yet. You stepped on the ground to get up but a sudden groan from the floor spooked you. A body laid there, in between your spare blankets. Oh god...what have you done? 

       "You finally woke up?" A deep voice grunted, still laced with sleep. Seungmin?! He rose from the floor, wrapping the blankets around him and he moved onto the bed with a pained moan. "Move" 

      You pulled your body to the side, allowing him to climb better and lay down on your bed. His shirt was replace by one of your oversized hoodies that, no surprise there, fit him well enough, since they were huge on you. His hair was messy from sleep and his eyes half closed.

      "Seungmin? Why are you here?" You asked, but he was already in dreamland.

      You looked at him for a beat, trying to gather your thoughts. You remember dancing with him last night, cracking jokes and laughing.. and then nothing. You vaguely remember waking up to a moving vehicle, leaning on someone and you looked at the boy sleeping in your bed. Did something happened between you? No. Seungmin wasn't the type of guy to take advantage of you. Also, you had your clothes on and he was sleeping on the floor, you doubted that he was that gifted. 

     You got up, treading towards your bathroom. Your hair could be more of a mess, you decided, thanking yourself for straightening it last night. Your face was clean of make up, only a light shadow under your eyes from your mascara. So that meant you washed up last night. You now realized that you were dressed in your PJs and that you had no recollection of doing so or anything for that matter. Hell, you didn't even remember bringing Seungmin here. You washed up and went to your living room again.

      Seungmin was still peacefully sleeping in your bed and you felt bad waking him up, especially when he spent the night sleeping on the floor. You decided on making some coffee and breakfast. That would be sufficient for now. 

      You had just finished making the last bit of the french toast, when a grunt left your guest. You looked over and saw him, slowly sitting up and freezing when he realized that he was sleeping on your bed and not on the cold floor. 

      "Good morning" you saluted, from your seat in the kitchen table- already nursing a cup of hot coffee. "I made breakfast. Come to eat."  

     He slowly walked up to me and took a seat opposite of you. Either your toast looked really appetizing or he was really hungry, because he fell immediately on top of the plate and started devouring it. "Coffee?" You asked,  getting a positive grunt so you got up and  poured him a mug. You looked idly at the boy, eating your breakfast and hesitantly spoke up. "Seungmin? How did you end up here?" 

    He looked up from his feast and took a sip before he spoke. "You don't remember?" 

    "..No" you responded. 

He lifted his hand on your forehead, flicking it lightly. You blinked, rubbing the sore spot on your forehead "Ouch! Why was that?!" 

     "For the trouble you got me into. After you downed your first shot, you kept drinking. I tried to stop you but you slipped away. Mind you, surprisedly, stealthily for someone so drunk and downed more shots. Eventually it took a toll on you and you blackened out. I brought you here." He used his dad look, the look when you got a problem wrong. Squinting eyes, eyebrows drawn together and his left side of his lips slightly raised. 

     You cleared your throat in order to avoid the tension. "And how exactly you ended up staying over?" You quietly mumbled, now playing with your food. You expected the worst now. 

      He quietened for a moment before reaching to scratch his nape. "You... umm.. you were in a pretty bad condition and I didn't want to leave you alone. You threw up several times-" You closed your eyes, regretting your past actions. But quickly your eyes quirked over your place, looking for accidents.

       "No! No you managed to race to the bathroom. I didn't see anything, but I.. umm.. heard you. " he rushed to get out, explaining the situation. You mentally face palmed, of course you had and done that. You hanged your head in shame, not mustering enough courage to look at Seungmin at the eye. "Are you ok?"  

       You huffed, lifting your head only a little to look at him. His attention was on you, eyes full of worry. Who could blame him though? You would worry about you, if you were in his shoes. "Yeah.. I do that kind of often... if I have too much to drink. And the clothes?" 

       "You gave them to me." He said, pitching the sky blue hoodie he wore to show it off. "I almost thought you were cold stone sober when you exited. You gave me clothes and insisted for me to sleep on the bed."he laughed, making you hang your head even lower.

     "A guest should always take the bed."you mumbled even quieter than before. 

     "Yeah that was exactly what you said!" He laughed, your embarrassment clearly entertaining him. 

      "Puppy... " You said carefully, as you put your weight on your elbows on top of the table. He looked at you, now resigned at the shameful nickname and hummed. "My head is killing me.."

      "Serves you right" was the immediate response. Meanie.

      "Yes..but I don't know if I can concentrate like that-" you got out before he cut you off.

       "You can't concentrate either way. Now get to the point" he huffed, taking a sip of his coffee. 

 "Canwepleasenothavealessonandputonamovie?" You got out as quickly as you could, secretly hoping he wouldn't hear you and just agree. A girl could hope. 

     He didn't shut you down immediately, just looked at you with a strange expression. 

     "You don't have to fill it. It would be on me. Promise" you persuaded him further. 

      He looked at you some more, before nodding "What do you wanna see?" He said as he got up to put his plate on the sink. You grabbed the chance to go and get the laptop and prob it to the coffee table, stretching yourself on the still unmade bed. 

      "I started the show you proposed. It's good. I am on episode 4. Hey! Leave them! I will do it later" you called over your shoulder, hearing water running from the kitchen. 

     "You did? I told it was good!" He exclaimed, as he finished the dishes and took his respective place on the other side of the bed. 

     "Care for a rerun?" You wingled your brows.

      "Nah, put it on" and the rest of the day was spent there with idle talk and comments about this and that...

You could get used to that...

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“Even when this world is a forgotten whisper of dust between the stars, I will always love you.”

– Sarah J. Maas, Empire of Storms

Three Heartbreaks & a Rose

Kim Seungmin (Skz) x Fem!Reader

Genre: Fluff, Angst, some crackheadery

Word Count: 7k

Warnings: mentions of a car crash, of hospitals; some crying; unnecessary jealousy caused by lack of communication

FLOWER STORE!AU where Seungmin is an annoying regular at your flower store but he sort of grows on you, eventually. 

A/N: Sorry for not uploading more often :( But this is an extra long fic by our standards so maybe it’ll make up for it. Originally, this was part of a larger series of different fic based all around this business street and you might find mentions of it in the fic, but I’m not sure I’ll ever write the other members’ parts :( Nevertheless, enjoy and maybe maybe maybe leave some feedback somewhere :)

“Hello, I’m— Oh, it’s you again.”

It took you less than two seconds to identify the clear distaste in Seungmin’s voice as he walked into the store. 

The tone of his voice made you roll your eyes, “Yes, it’s me again. Like every Saturday for the past 3 years.”

“And yet nothing ever seems to change,” he sighed, face void of any emotion. In a leisurely pace, he made his way over to the counter of your grandmother’s flower store and asked, “What do you guys have here this week? Anything pretty or are all the flowers here as tired-looking as you?”

“I’ve got some daisies fresh from the garden across the street,” you offered with a glare in your eyes, but he scrunched his nose in distaste. 

He mumbled, “Too lazy.”

“Lazy?”

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“I spent my childhood learning how to fear, and now I spend my adulthood learning how not to.”

— Gemma Troy