Vcutparis - Chika - Tumblr Blog

prolly the stages reader and mingi go thru their relationship [the last pic cracking me up so bad because it can be vice verse u never knowdgshgh]

beware the full moon! | drabble series

Pairing: Song Mingi x werewolf!Reader AU: non-idol | martial arts | arranged marriage Genre: fluff, humor Summary: You never though your life would be like this: stuck in a century long feud, an arranged marriage to the son of your family's sworn rival--and on top of it all, your own curse of turning into a werewolf every full moon! Word Count: 745 Warnings: none, probably just descriptions of werewolf transformation shenanigans

a/n: after watching a bunch of Halloween movies and the Ranma 1/2 reboot this drabble series was born. but seriously I need to finish chapter 6 of fmn and chapter xiii of awtw

Life wasn’t always this complicated. For years, your family’s dojo thrived peacefully, teaching martial arts to eager locals, hosting small community events, and occasionally winning a regional tournament or two. Life was simple, and business was steady. But for as long as you can remember, there’s been one constant cloud hanging over your family’s otherwise calm existence: the Song family.

No one really knows how or why the feud started. Your parents had vague stories passed down from their parents, stories that range from comical to downright absurd. Generations of pettiness and one upping each other have turned the feud into an all out soap opera. The Song’s would claim victory at one tournament, only for your family to show up at the next with twice the energy, determined to outshine them. It’s a never-ending cycle of sabotage, tournaments, and petty gestures of supremacy, each dojo determined to prove they’re the superior martial arts school.

It wasn’t always like this. According to family lore, your great-grandfather and Mingi’s great-grandfather were once close friends, back before all the rivalry nonsense began. One summer, they went on a fishing trip together, and things took a wild turn when Mingi’s great-grandfather fell out of the boat and nearly drowned when trying to reel in a giant fish. Your great-grandfather pulled him out of the water and saved his life.

In the heat of the moment, Mingi’s great-grandfather declared that he owed your family a debt he could never repay. In the kind of dramatic, over-the-top way only old men can manage, he promised that one of his descendants would marry one of your grandfather’s.

Now, here you are, stuck in the middle of this century-long saga, facing the ultimate twist: You’ve been arranged to marry Song Mingi, the clumsy, slightly awkward, and overenthusiastic heir—a misguided attempt at peace due to a pact made on a fishing trip.

"It's like Romeo and Juliet but with worse sword skills," your cousin Jongho muttered under his breath, observing Mingi in all his 6-foot-something clumsiness as he failed to gracefully spar with your brother, Hongjoong.

You rolled your eyes just in time to see Mingi trip over his own feet, narrowly dodging Hongjoong’s wooden katana as it whooshed past him. He stumbled forward, arms flailing, and miraculously caught his balance before crashing face-first into the floor. 

You groaned, pressing your fingers to your temples. "I can’t believe my parents put me up to this."

Jongho smirked, nudging you with his elbow. “Look on the bright side. He’s...tall.”

“Yeah, and that’s about all he’s got going for him,” you shot back sarcastically as Mingi attempted to land a strike but ended up accidentally whacking his own shin.

To make matters worse, there’s the whole werewolf thing—a curse you never asked for and definitely didn’t see coming. 

When you were about six, visiting your grandparents in the mountains, you spotted an adorable wolf pup wandering around. Naturally, you wanted to return it to its mother—after all, who wouldn’t? It was tiny and cute, and you couldn’t bear the thought of the baby lost in the wild.

But as it turned out, that little pup belonged to a revered pack of mountain wolves, considered deities by the locals. And after it playfully nipped you, the curse passed on. Now, every full moon, you transformed into a giant, fluffy, wolf with little to no control over your impulses. That urge to howl? It kicks in at the most inconvenient moments, like when your parents are trying to sleep. The urge to dig into the yard? There’s no need for landscapers anymore. 

Your family has mostly accepted this strange new reality. They’ve gotten into a routine of boarding up the windows and locking away anything chewable once a month. Your brother even started stockpiling raw steaks to appease you in wolf form, while your cousins Jongho and San built an agility course in the yard just to keep you occupied. It’s chaotic, sure, but manageable.

But Mingi? He has no idea. 

While you’re busy stressing about how to keep your werewolf transformation under wraps, your fiance is happily bumbling through life, completely unaware of the full moon and the curse waiting in its wings. 

away with the wind | xii

Pairing: dragonrider!Seonghwa x ex-dragonrider!Reader AU: dragon rider au | strangers -> lovers Summary: A spinal injury forces you to retire from dragon racing, and with it, the end of your engagement to Song Mingi. Park Seonghwa, a rising star in the world of dragon racing and heir to the prestigious House Park, seeks a new dragon after an unfortunate accident on the skyway. As the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Word Count: 6.1K Warnings: violence, kidnapping, mentions of trafficking, cirrus running a fade on everyone 👀

Fic Masterlist

Seonghwa’s fingers trembled as he frantically checked his phone, swiping through a barrage of notifications with growing urgency. Each swipe only intensified his anxiety as he refreshed the screen, desperately hoping for a response from you. The seconds felt like hours.

Finally, a new notification from your number flashed on the screen, its recent timestamp offering a glimmer of hope. With a swift tap, he opened the message, his heart racing as he scanned the attachments. The photos revealed containers in a warehouse each with evidence of illegally captive dragons being transported. His pulse quickened as he took in the details.

As the gravity of the findings sank in, Seonghwa’s focus momentarily shifted from the information at hand. He scanned the room noting the guests' relaxed demeanor as they listened to the guide's animated explanations. The guide, a man with a wide smile and a practiced enthusiasm, moved from exhibit to exhibit, encouraging visitors to admire and even handle the displays. 

Taking advantage of the distraction, Seonghwa subtly signaled to Hongjoong and his father. His gesture was almost imperceptible—a slight, urgent tilt of his head—conveying the gravity of the situation without drawing undue attention.

“Y/N and Yunho sent over some footage,” he said, his voice steady but charged with a sense of urgency. 

Lord Kim’s face tightened as he absorbed the information. His brows furrowed deeply, a sign of his deepening concern. “Containers?” he asked in a hushed tone, his eyes already betraying a grim understanding of the implications.

He leaned in closer, his face darkening as he absorbed the details. The camera panned methodically over the wreckage, capturing the size and shape of each cage with meticulous precision. Scorch marks varied—some indicated intense, localized heat, while others suggested prolonged exposure to flames. Broken restraints lay scattered haphazardly, some still hanging from the remnants of the cages, others strewn across the floor, rusted and mangled. The scene painted a vivid, distressing picture of the aftermath, hinting at the horrors that had unfolded within those walls.

“This is grave indeed,” Lord Kim murmured, his voice low and strained as he crossed his arms over his chest. His gaze remained fixed on the screen, absorbing the full extent of the destruction. The room around them seemed to fade as the reality of the situation became all too clear.

Hongjoong, ever vigilant, glanced over his shoulder to ensure that the guests remained engrossed in the guide’s enthusiastic explanations. The guide continued to weave his tale with animated gestures, oblivious to the urgency unfolding nearby.

“I suspect the illustrious Lady Lee had a hand in this,” he deduced, his tone carrying a hint of grim certainty. “If they’re trafficking dragons, we need to understand what they’re using these creatures for.”

Seonghwa nodded, his expression grim as he absorbed Hongjoong’s words. “No need,” he said quietly. “They’re most likely related to their hybrid dragons.”

The weight of the revelation hung heavily in the air. The footage, the suspicion of Lady Lee’s involvement, and the hint of dark experiments painted a troubling picture. Their next steps would need to be calculated and swift if they were to unravel the full scope of the operation and put a stop to it.

You and Yunho quickly retraced your steps out of the warehouse and into the nearest corridor, seamlessly slipping into your roles as oblivious tourists who had simply taken a wrong turn. Yunho whipped out his phone, launching a holographic map with a flourish that was more theatrical than necessary. He pretended to study it with exaggerated concentration, every movement designed to convince anyone who might be watching that you were just another pair of lost sightseers. You mirrored his act, glancing around with a look of bewildered confusion, as though you were desperately trying to make sense of your unfamiliar surroundings.

As you strolled past several guards stationed along the corridor, their gazes barely flickered in your direction. Your casual, nonchalant demeanor was convincing, but the tension coiled in your chest was nearly suffocating. Each step you took seemed to amplify the pounding of your heart, while the growing clamor of the busy lobby ahead offered a semblance of safety and a potential escape route.

The grand entrance of the lobby soon came into view, its opulence a stark contrast to the grim reality of the warehouse. You exhaled a small, controlled sigh of relief as you stepped into the expansive, bustling space. 

In a carefully rehearsed move, you exclaim loudly with just the right amount of faux anxiety, “Oh no, I think we’ve been separated from the group!” Your exclamation was deliberately loud enough to draw attention but still fit comfortably within the ambiance of the bustling lobby.

Yunho immediately picked up on the cue, adopting a tone that mixed concern with a casual air. 

“Let’s try asking someone for directions. Maybe they can help us find our group.” His words were directed at you, but his tone was deliberately pitched to be overheard by nearby staff, laying the groundwork for your ruse.

Nodding in agreement, you headed toward the front desk, adopting just the right amount of distress, signaling your need for the receptionist’s assistance. The act of maintaining your cover was crucial if you wanted to make it out of the lab alive. 

“Excuse me,” you began, your voice edged with concern as you approached the front desk. “We seem to have lost our group. Could you help us find our way back to them?”

The receptionist looked up from her computer, her expression shifting from mild annoyance to professional concern as she took in your urgent tone. Her eyes flicked briefly to Yunho, who was standing slightly behind you, maintaining a stance of worried agreement.

“Of course,” the receptionist said, her voice warm and accommodating. “Let me see if I can assist you. Could you please provide me with the name of your group or the tour you’re supposed to be with?”

You and Yunho exchanged a quick, almost imperceptible glance. Yunho stepped forward, his expression confident as he leaned an arm casually against the desk. With a charming smile that seemed to light up the room, he said, “We were with members of the Assembly.”

The receptionist’s eyes widened slightly, clearly impressed by Yunho’s presence. “Ah, the Assembly,” she repeated, her tone now tinged with a hint of respect. “Let me check the records for you.”

As she turned to her computer, Yunho glanced back at you, a playful glint in his eye. “Don’t worry,” he whispered, “I’ve got this.”

You shook your head, laughing at his confidence. Yunho had always had a way with people, effortlessly putting them at ease and winning them over with his charm. It made you wonder why he dedicated so much time to work instead of enjoying a social life.

“Ah, Y/N!” 

Your heart skipped a beat. “Dr. Kang?” you blinked, genuine surprise coloring your voice as you locked eyes with him. His sudden appearance is far from welcome—it’s a complication that could unravel everything. But you quickly regain your composure, forcing a polite smile.

“We were just exploring and accidentally got separated from our tour group,” you explained, adopting a tone that was light and almost apologetic. You gestured vaguely around you, trying to appear nonchalant. “It’s so easy to lose track of where you are in such a big place.”

“I’m glad I'm not the only one,” Yeosang breathed a sigh of relief. “I thought I was the only one who had taken a wrong turn.”

You nodded sympathetically, maintaining your facade of innocence. “We’re just trying to find our way back to the group.”

“Do you mind if I tag along? Perhaps we can find them together?”

You take a moment to craft your response, aiming to keep the conversation engaging while steering it away from anything incriminating. “Of course, if you don’t mind being surrounded by Assembly members and endless discussions about bureaucracy.”

“Excuse me, your group should be at the reception area,” the receptionist interrupted. Thank gods, you thought to yourself. “The location should be down that corridor and to the left.”

As you strolled down the corridor, your senses remained on high alert. Yeosang continued his small talk with Yunho, pointing out the differences in Cromer’s work against the Institute, but the tension between you was palpable. His questions were too pointed, his interest too keen. Each step, each glance exchanged, felt like a delicate dance on the edge of a precipice.

After a tense journey through the corridors, you and Yunho finally spot Seonghwa and Hongjoong milling about in one of the larger exhibition rooms that doubled as the reception space. The sight of them is a small relief, a sign that you’re successfully blending back into the crowd. 

“It seems we found your group,” Dr. Kang chuckled, his eyes still sharp and observant.

“Thank you, Dr. Kang,” you say, maintaining the pretense of gratitude. Yunho echoes your thanks, his tone equally courteous. You begin to step away, eager to merge with the group and escape the unnerving presence of Yeosang.

But just as you’re about to join the others, Yeosang’s voice cuts through the air, stopping you in your tracks. 

“Y/N, could you stay back for a moment?” Yeosang’s tone is light, almost casual, but there's an undertone that made your heart skip a beat.

Yunho hesitated, glancing at you with concern. Yeosang quickly added, “Just a quick chat about some of your findings. Nothing too serious.” His smile was friendly, but his eyes betrayed a deeper intent, making you wary.

You share a quick, silent exchange with Yunho, a look that says, I’ll be fine. He nods reluctantly and continues toward the group, though his pace is slower, his posture tense, clearly remaining on edge.

Turning back to Yeosang, you forced a smile, trying to match his casual demeanor. “Of course, what do you need to discuss?”

He motioned for you to follow him to a quieter corner of the exhibition room, away from the prying eyes and ears of the other visitors. As you walked, the weight of the situation weighed down on you. 

“Did you find anything interesting?” he asked, his voice low and casual, though his sideways glance hinted at a more probing interest. “I’d love to know what you’ve uncovered.”

You met his gaze with careful neutrality, the flicker of tension still fresh in your mind. “I didn’t get very far,” you lied, choosing your words with deliberate precision. “I tried comparing the markers from the Kuku to my Dreamwood as an example, but it’s been challenging to draw any definitive conclusions.”

“Challenging?” Yeosang’s interest seemed to intensify, his eyes narrowing slightly as he processed your response. 

“The markers are quite distinct from what we have in our records. There are some similarities, but the differences are significant enough that it complicates the comparison. I’m still working on isolating the variables and trying to make sense of the discrepancies.”

Yeosang’s expression shifted to one of thoughtful consideration, his eyes studying you with a sharp focus. “Interesting. It sounds like you’re onto something, even if it’s not immediately clear. Why don’t you stop by the lab next week? We can look at it together and see if we can make any progress.”

The offer seemed genuine on the surface, but you couldn’t shake the feeling that his interest was more than just academic. 

“Sure, I’d appreciate the help,” you replied, forcing a note of enthusiasm into your voice. 

Yeosang’s smile widened, and he gave a nod of satisfaction. “Great. I’ll look forward to it.” With that, he gestured for you to rejoin the group, the conversation having ended as quickly as it began.

Yunho stood at the edge of Seonghwa’s office, his eyes fixed on the expansive holographic display that now filled the room. The footage, captured from multiple angles, hovered in mid-air, creating a three-dimensional map of every corner and crevice.

Every detail of the warehouse was exposed, from the scuffed concrete floors to the claw marks on the containers, as if the very fabric of the space had been unraveled before him.

“Find anything?” Seonghwa’s voice broke through the silence.

Yunho let out a long sigh, his shoulders slumping slightly as he shook his head. 

“No,” he said, his tone resigned. “This was all the evidence we were able to capture before the guards showed up. The footage is thorough, but it doesn’t reveal much beyond what we already knew.”

He paused, his eyes tracing the holographic image of the shackles displayed prominently on the screen. 

“The only thing that’s clear is that these restraints are small enough to fit juveniles, not adults.”

Seonghwa nodded thoughtfully, his eyes narrowing as he considered the implications. “It’s easier to capture juveniles than adults for illegal experimentation, that’s for sure,” he remarked. The words hung in the air, a chilling reminder of the dark nature of their investigation.

There was a brief silence, filled only by the faint hum of the holographic display. Seonghwa’s gaze flicked to his desk, where his phone lay ominously silent. 

“Have you heard from Y/N?” he asked, his tone tinged with concern. “I can’t get through to her.”

Yunho’s expression tightened, his worry evident. “No word from her yet. I know she was going to stop by the lab today but haven’t heard from her since.”

“Dr. Kang, Y/N is here,” Sumin’s voice rang out clearly, breaking the soft hum of activity in the Biology lab. The secretary’s announcement echoed slightly in the pristine, white-walled corridor, his tone both professional and cordial.

The door to the lab slid open smoothly, and you stepped into the room, expecting to be greeted by the usual flurry of activity. Instead, you were met with an unusual silence. The bright, artificial lighting cast a sharp, sterile glow over the expansive space, revealing an array of scientific instruments and glassware meticulously arranged across gleaming countertops.

“Dr. Kang?” you called out, your voice carrying through the empty lab but receiving no immediate response. The sound of your voice seemed to dissipate into the vast space, adding to the surreal feeling of the room.

You glanced around, noting the various research stations, each one perfectly maintained but empty of human presence. The silence was punctuated only by the occasional hum of machinery or the soft whirr of ventilation.

As you ventured deeper into the labyrinth of workstations, you stumbled upon an array of dragon limbs, meticulously dissected and strung up on giant hooks. Each limb, massive and lifesize, dwarfed the average man, their sheer scale a testament to the dragons' formidable presence. 

The dissected pieces, preserved with clinical precision, revealed layers of sinew, muscle, and scale, stretching far beyond the dimensions of any human limb. Though lifeless, the specimens carried an eerie dignity, their vibrant, iridescent scales catching the cold, fluorescent light that loomed over everything in the room.

“Y/N, I see you’re here,” a voice broke through the sterile silence, pulling you from your thoughts.

You turned, your gaze still lingering on the lifeless limbs. "What is this?" you asked, your voice barely more than a whisper, the words catching in your throat as the chilling scene unfolded before you. The magnitude of it all made the air feel thick and heavy, like the remnants of something forbidden were pressing down on you, demanding answers that you weren't sure you wanted to hear.

“The future,” he replied smoothly, “Dragons are more than just relics of the past. Their strength, their resilience, it’s all right here, waiting to be harnessed by my hands.”

His words cut through the suffocating silence like a blade, and a shiver ran down your spine. The implications of his statement settled in—a future built on the bones of creatures that once ruled the skies, reduced to specimens and parts for human gain. 

“This is wrong,” you stammered, your voice trembling with a mixture of anger and disbelief. 

“Doing this under the Institute’s nose is illegal—you know that.” Your heart pounded as the enormity of the situation settled in. “You can’t just—”

Yeosang’s expression shifted, a flicker of annoyance crossing his features before he masked it with a calm, almost dismissive indifference. 

“Has anyone ever told you that your deduction skills are—” he paused, a thin smile curling at the edges of his lips, “admirable, but rather inconvenient? You’ve become quite the detective with all the snooping you and your ragtag gang of friends have been up to. I imagine having access to Park Seonghwa’s connections and Kim Hongjoong’s resources has been oh-so-convenient for you.”

“W-What are you talking about?” you demanded, taking a step back. 

His words struck a nerve, and you stiffened. How did he know about your deep dive into Ajax’s lineage? The realization that your investigation was no longer hidden sent a chill through you.

“Requesting a sequencing report, now that’s quite specific,” Yeosang remarked, his tone laced with a mix of condescension and grudging admiration. “Only someone looking to compare two different types of genetic material would go that route. It’s a bold move, bordering on reckless.”

He took a step closer, his eyes narrowing as if assessing you with newfound respect, or perhaps wariness. “Then you discovered the warehouse,” Yeosang continued, his tone admiring yet laced with an unsettling edge. 

“How did you–” you whispered, your voice faltering as you struggled to comprehend the gravity of his words. “You weren’t at the lab by chance.”

Yeosang tilted his head slightly, a mocking glint flickering in his eyes. “Oh, not at all, Y/N,” he replied, his voice smooth and casual. “It’s quite impressive, really, how far you’ve managed to get.”

He paused for a moment, as if weighing his next words carefully. “I must admit, Park Seonghwa isn’t as daft as I initially presumed,” Yeosang continued, his tone shifting to one of begrudging acknowledgment. “I didn’t expect him to connect the dots so quickly. But that’s the thing about talent—it occasionally shows up in the most unexpected places.”

“But even with all of his cleverness and the Kim’s vast network, you’re still playing a dangerous game, meddling in things far beyond your understanding. You’ve poked your nose into places it doesn’t belong.”

“You can’t just play god because you think you know better than everyone else,” you shot back, your voice trembling with defiance and fear.

Yeosang’s lips curled into a cold, predatory smile. “Oh, but I don’t think I’m better than everyone else,” he replied, his tone dripping with sarcasm. 

“I know I am.”

His eyes bored into yours with an intensity that made your blood run cold. “You see, the difference between us is that I understand the stakes and I’m willing to see them through. You, on the other hand, are just a pawn in a game you can’t even begin to comprehend.”

A chill ran through you as his words sank in. Something about his tone felt off, the confidence in his stance unnerving. 

“You should’ve stayed out of it,” a voice said, smooth and tainted with disappointment. The sound sent a jolt of shock through your system, your heart stuttering as you turned to face the source.

“Wooyoung?” you breathed, your eyes widening as he stepped into view. There he stood, casually leaning against a workstation, his presence out of place in the dimly lit lab. Your mind reeled, the pieces of a sinister puzzle snapping into place with a clarity that felt like a punch to the gut. 

“You’ve been feeding him information this whole time?”

Wooyoung shrugged, his expression calm and unapologetic. “I didn’t think anything of it until you started getting involved.” Wooyoung moved closer, his eyes dark and unreadable. 

“You wanted to be a hero, didn’t you?” he continued, his voice dropping to a near whisper. “To uncover the truth and save the day? You flew too close to the sun Y/N. And now you’re about to get burned.”

“Jung Wooyoung, how… how could… c-could y-you…” you slurred, your voice barely a whisper as a sharp pain bloomed at the base of your neck. The words struggled to leave your lips, each syllable a battle against the sedative coursing through your veins. Your legs gave way beneath you, and you crumpled to the ground, the world around you spinning into a blur.

Wooyoung’s expression remained impassive, his arms crossed over his chest as he watched you fall. There was no hint of emotion in his eyes, just a cold detachment that sent a shiver down your spine. The edges of your vision darkened, and you fought to keep your eyes open, to stay conscious just a little longer.

Above you, Yeosang’s face hovered, his expression cold and clinical. He withdrew the needle with a practiced ease, his gaze never wavering from yours. There was no sympathy in his eyes, only a chilling resolve.

“When you wake up, you’ll be able to fly again,” Yeosang murmured, his voice a soft, almost soothing contrast to the harsh reality of the situation. His words echoed in your mind as the darkness finally claimed you, pulling you into a deep, dreamless sleep.

Cirrus’ nose twitched, sensing something amiss. The bond linking your minds flickered with distress and confusion, and the dragon’s primal instincts surged to the surface. She felt your fear, your pain, and the sudden, terrifying drop in your consciousness.

She thrashed against the cavern walls, her eyes blazing with fierce, protective fury. A deafening bellow erupted from her, demanding to know where you were and why you were in danger. The sound echoed through the caverns, a call of desperation and anger.

“Cirrus!” your grandmother shouted, her voice nearly drowned out by the dragon’s roars. She raised her hands, trying to project a sense of calm, but Cirrus’s eyes, glowing with an intense, wild light, were locked on the horizon. She wasn’t listening. She couldn’t. The only thing that mattered was finding you.

With a final, bone-chilling roar, Cirrus made her decision. The ground shook from the force of her takeoff, and in an instant, she was soaring into the sky, leaving the chaos of the caverns behind.

Your grandmother watched in helpless dismay as Cirrus disappeared into the clouds, her heart pounding with fear and uncertainty.

BREAKING NEWS – DRAGON FLYING TOWARDS CROMER LABS, ALL CIVILIANS IN THE AREA EVACUATED

“Seonghwa,” Yunho panicked, thrusting his phone at Seonghwa, the live footage of Cirrus charging at full speed toward Cromer Labs filling the screen. “You should see this.”

Seonghwa’s heart dropped as he watched a familiar lavender dragon streak across the sky, her massive wings slicing through the air with terrifying precision. Cirrus was in a frenzy, and there was no mistaking her target. Cromer Labs loomed in the distance, its cold, clinical exterior standing stark against the dragon’s wild, primal energy.

As the facility came into view, Cirrus let out a ferocious roar that echoed through the skies like a battle cry. The sound reverberated with a force that shook the very earth, and Seonghwa knew this wasn’t just a dragon on the loose—this was a guardian seeking her bonded.

“Shit.” 

Seonghwa didn’t hesitate. Without another word, he sprinted through the estate, his mind racing. He had to reach Cirrus before she tore the lab apart—or worse, before the lab’s defenses and keepers decided she was too great a threat to let live.

He called out for Starshine, his voice cutting through the night air with urgency. The response was immediate as Seonghwa vaulted onto her back, gripping the reins tightly.

“Let’s go,” he urged, and with a powerful leap, Starshine launched into the sky. 

The wind roared in Seonghwa’s ears as they soared toward the lab, the landscape below blurring into a patchwork of dark fields and city lights. He could see the trail of destruction Cirrus had left in her wake, the telltale signs of her fury etched into the ground.

The lab’s alarms blared, a cacophony of sound that only fueled Cirrus’s rage. She landed with a ground-shaking impact, her claws carving deep gouges into the asphalt as she tore through the barriers in her path. Debris flew in every direction, and the humans in the surrounding area scrambled in panic, but Cirrus paid them no mind. Her only focus was finding you, protecting you, and destroying anything that stood in her way.

Seonghwa urged Starshine to fly faster, his heart pounding in his chest. He could see Cirrus now, a force of nature, her chest heaving with each breath as she prepared to breach the lab’s final defenses. Smoke curled from her nostrils, twisting into the air like a dark omen.

“Hold on, Cirrus,” Seonghwa muttered under his breath as they closed in. He knew they had only moments before things escalated beyond control. Starshine’s wings beat furiously as they approached, and Seonghwa’s mind raced with a single thought: he had to reach her, to calm her, before it was too late.

Yunho, close behind on Voltage, was already scanning the area, trying to piece together what could have caused such a violent reaction from the usually controlled dragon. 

Cirrus’s massive form shifted, her glowing eyes locking onto Seonghwa and Yunho. There was no recognition, no bond to anchor her; all that remained was the raw, primal instinct to protect and destroy. With a snarl that sent chills down their spines, Cirrus suddenly lunged at them, her powerful wings sending a gust of wind that nearly knocked Seonghwa off balance.

“Yunho, move!” Seonghwa shouted, pulling Starshine into a sharp ascent as Cirrus barreled toward them. The impact of her claws against the air sent a shockwave through the sky, and Seonghwa could feel the vibration in his bones. 

Yunho was already moving, as Starshine dove down to intercept Cirrus before she could close the distance on Voltage. The two dragons collided in mid-air, their roars deafening as they grappled with each other. Claws slashed through the air, and the sky lit up with bursts of energy as Starshine tried to hold Cirrus back.

“Cirrus, stop!” Seonghwa called out, but his voice was drowned out by the fury of the fight. Starshine twisted to avoid Cirrus’s snapping jaws, trying to push her back without hurting her. Resetting course, she flapped her wings, diving toward Cirrus with precision. The goal wasn’t to harm but to restrain, to bring her back to herself.

But Cirrus was relentless, her rage blinding her to everything but the perceived threat. She twisted out of Starshine’s grasp, her tail lashing out and clipping her wing. Starshine let out a sharp cry, struggling to maintain balance as they fought to stay in the air.

“Seonghwa! Yunho!”

A flash of radiant light cut through the gloom, slicing across the horizon like a blade of pure sunlight. 

“Lady Sunmi!” Seonghwa exclaimed, a relief washing over him. Your sister had arrived with her dragon, Eos. 

For a moment, the ferocity in Cirrus’ eyes wavered, her primal instincts recognizing the strength and authority that Eos carried. Without any further hesitation, she snapped out of her reverie and let out a furious roar, the sound reverberating across the sky.

Without warning, Cirrus lunged at Eos, her claws outstretched, teeth bared in a savage snarl. Eos barely had time to react, pulling up sharply to avoid the full force of the charge. She flapped her wings with powerful strokes, trying to gain altitude, but Cirrus was relentless.

Eos twisted in the air, countering with a sharp turn of her own, her claws slashing through the sky as she retaliated. The clash of their massive forms shook the ground below. Angling her wings just in time, Eos narrowly avoided the strike, and retaliated with a swift, calculated blow to Cirrus's flank.

The hit landed, and Cirrus snarled in pain, momentarily losing her momentum. Cirrus whirled around, using her powerful hind legs to launch herself at Eos once more. The two dragons became a blur of motion—claws slashing, tails whipping, wings beating furiously as they fought for dominance.

Cirrus lunged, her jaws snapping mere inches from Eos’s neck. Eos countered with a powerful wing swipe, sending Cirrus spiraling out of control. Letting out a roar of frustration, Cirrus’s breath came in ragged gasps as she struggled to regain her bearings. But Eos was ready.

With a final, commanding bellow, Eos surged forward, wrapping Cirrus in a tight, unyielding grip. It was a move that combined raw strength with the gentle pressure of authority, signaling the battle’s end.

The younger dragon thrashed wildly in the air, fighting against the hold. But Eos held firm, her wings encircling Cirrus in a protective embrace. Slowly, Cirrus’s struggles weakened, her energy spent. The wild light in her eyes dimmed as exhaustion took over, and she finally relented, collapsing against Eos in a shuddering heap.

From a distance, Seonghwa and Yunho watched with bated breath, their hearts pounding in their chests. The tension in the air was almost suffocating as Cirrus fought against your sister and her own instincts.

"Y/N’s in there," Yunho said quietly, voice tinged with horror as he pieced together the damage. The thought of you being trapped inside that cold, clinical building while Cirrus tore through it like a force of nature was almost too much to bear.

"We have to get her out of there," Seonghwa said, his voice laced with urgency. He couldn’t let you stay in that place a moment longer, not while Cirrus was in a blind rage, and not while the lab’s security systems were likely more focused on containing the dragon than ensuring the safety of those inside.

When you come to, a sharp, throbbing pain radiates from the back of your head, and you squint against the dim light of the room. The disorientation is overwhelming, but as your vision clears, the reality of your situation slams into you with the force of a freight train. You’re strapped to the seat of a console, the cold metal biting into your wrists and ankles as you instinctively try to free yourself. Panic surged through you, your breath quickening as you tugged desperately at the restraints.

Your heart raced as your bleary eyes settled on the ominous sight before you—a life-sized incubation tube dominating the center of the room, its sleek, metallic frame reflecting the sparse, sterile light that filters through the darkness. 

The dragon was still, its eyes closed in what appeared to be a deep, dreamless sleep. The liquid around it was a pale, ethereal color, giving the impression that the dragon was floating in a kind of otherworldly cocoon. The sight was both mesmerizing and disquieting, a stark contrast to the vibrant energy of the dragon you were familiar with.

You try to steady your breathing, to push back the rising tide of fear, but the sight before you only deepens the sense of dread that clung to your thoughts. What is this place? Why are you here? And, most terrifying of all, what have they done to this dragon?

“You’re awake,” Yeosang sings, his tone dripping with a cruel sort of amusement.

Your blood runs cold as you turn your head to find him standing just a few feet away, his expression a twisted mask of satisfaction. The light casts sharp shadows across his face, highlighting the dangerous glint in his eyes. He’s been watching you, waiting for this moment, and the realization makes your stomach churn.

"What is this?" you manage to choke out, your voice trembling despite your efforts to stay calm. 

“This,” Yeosang continued, his voice softening with a rare hint of reverence, “is the result of years of research and experimentation. It represents the pinnacle of my efforts to unlock the limits of dragon physiology and enhance their abilities. Everything I’ve worked for has led to this moment.”

You glanced back at the dragon, the sight of its serene slumber now tinged with a new layer of complexity. The creature was no longer just a subject in a high-tech incubator but a living embodiment of Yeosang’s ambitions and research.

He stepped closer, his gaze flicking briefly to the dragon in the tube before settling back on you. "And you are going to be a part of it."

Yeosang watched you struggle with a detached interest. His gaze drifted towards the sleek console that contained you where a complex array of wires and screens are meticulously arranged. 

"What are you doing? Let me go," you demand, your voice stronger this time, though still edged with fear. You tug against the restraints once more, ignoring the pain as the metal digs into your skin. You have to find a way out, a way to stop whatever nightmare Yeosang is orchestrating.

Yeosang ignored your pleas. "The neural link is nearly complete. When activated, it will fuse your consciousness with the dragon's. The transmitter embedded in your neck interfaces directly with the dragon’s neural pathways, creating a seamless telepathic connection."

“Let me go!” you screamed, your voice breaking with fear and desperation.

“Let you go?” he repeated, his tone devoid of sympathy. “Not when we’re on the brink of witnessing how the regenerative function operates. It’s one of the most crucial aspects of this experiment,” Yeosang continued, his voice almost reverent. 

“Don’t you want to fly again, Y/N?” He glanced at you with a hint of curiosity, as if testing the waters of your desperation. “Don’t you want to heal that broken back of yours?”

The notion of flying again, once a cherished dream, was now twisted into a horrifying spectacle of manipulation. The thought of being bound to the dragon, subjected to its primal force and the invasive technology that linked you both, was overwhelming.

“You know,” he said with faint amusement, “you’re the first candidate to fight back. Most of the others were quite compliant.”

“The kids,” you managed to choke out, your voice barely a whisper. “What have you done to them?”

“Yes, the children were part of the initial trials,” he sighed, ignoring you again. “Their young minds were more adaptable to the neural interface. But there were… complications.”

“Complications?” you echo, your stomach churning.

“Some of the connections were too strong,” Yeosang admits, his tone almost clinical. “The riders lost their sense of self, becoming too intertwined with the dragons. It was a setback, but one that provided valuable data. Physically, they’re fine, though they do face some… emotional challenges.”

The room seemed to close in around you as you processed the enormity of his words. The children had become casualties of Yeosang’s ambition, their identities obliterated in the name of progress. 

“Where are they?” you gritted. 

“They’re being monitored,” he explained, his voice devoid of any hint of empathy. “Their bodies are intact, but their minds—well, they’re still part of the ongoing research. We’re studying the effects of the integration and how to refine the process.”

As the machinery around you began to hum with increased intensity, the final preparations for the experiment were being set into motion. The neural link cables glowed brighter, casting eerie shadows that danced across the walls.

Panic surged through you as you strained against the metal restraints. “No, no, please, no,” you cried, your voice cracking with desperation.

The sudden blare of alarms pierced through the hum of machinery, their shrill wail growing louder and more urgent. Yeosang’s face darkened as the alarms were interspersed with the rhythmic pounding of what sounded like heavy impacts from outside. The building itself seemed to shudder, its walls vibrating as if responding to an unseen force.

“Hey, bastard,” a voice growled from the shadows, carrying an unmistakable authority and defiance. “You better get out of there before the authorities shut down your little operation. Her dragon’s about to tear the place down.”

The voice, emerging from the very darkness of the lab, stood in stark contrast to the mechanical whirring and the blaring alarms. Your heart raced with a mix of hope and disbelief as you turned your head and saw a familiar figure stepping into the dim light.

Mingi…?

<< xi | xiii >>

a/n: chapter xii is finally here! it might be a while before the next chapter as i'll be out for a procedure in a week. but uhhh yeah, mingi 👀

taglist: @chngbnwf, @sunnysidesins @litolmochi @syubseokie @park-simphwa @szakias @babymbbatinygirl @oddracha @maliamaiden @signingsongbird @passionandsuga @mitchii

away with the wind | xi

Pairing: dragonrider!Seonghwa x ex-dragonrider!Reader AU: dragon rider au | strangers -> lovers Summary: A spinal injury forces you to retire from dragon racing, and with it, the end of your engagement to Song Mingi. Park Seonghwa, a rising star in the world of dragon racing and heir to the prestigious House Park, seeks a new dragon after an unfortunate accident on the skyway. As the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Word Count: 5.1K Warnings: hints of dragon trafficking, domestic!Hwa

Fic Masterlist

“Dr. Kang!”

Your voice echoed down the dimly lit corridor, the sound almost swallowed by the bustle of the Institute at day's end. Researchers and assistants hurried past, eager to escape the confines of their workstations, their chatter blending into a low hum of exhaustion and anticipation. You weaved through the throng, quickening your pace as you spotted your colleague’s familiar silhouette just ahead. 

“Thank you so much for the report!” you said breathlessly, forcing a bright smile as you reached him. You tried to inject your voice with enthusiasm, but it came out slightly strained, a side effect of the long hours you’d both been pulling. “It really helped me out!”

Yeosang’s eyes met yours, and for a moment, there was a subtle shift in his demeanor—a flicker of something unreadable behind his composed exterior. He offered you a small, guarded smile, the kind that never quite reached his eyes.

“Of course,” he replied smoothly, his tone polite but distant. “After all, the biology department is crucial to supporting the research that ensures the conservation of future dragon generations.”

His acknowledgment was formal, almost mechanical, as if it were an obligation. You couldn’t help but notice the way his gaze drifted past you, as if his mind was already elsewhere. Yeosang’s smile remained polite, but it didn’t deepen.

You shifted awkwardly, feeling the weight of the unspoken tension between you. “I really appreciate it,” you added, hoping to bridge the gap. “I know it’s been a long week for everyone.”

Yeosang nodded, but his eyes remained distant. “I really should be going. I have lots to prepare for tomorrow,” he replied, already shifting his weight toward the exit.

“Of course,” you agreed quickly, stepping back to give him space, adding a polite bow. “Don’t let me keep you,” you added, your voice light.

You watched him go, a sense of unease settling in your stomach. There was something about his demeanor that felt off. You couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more to his hurried departure than just preparations for tomorrow.

As Yeosang reached the door, he paused for a moment, his hand on the handle. He glanced back at you, his expression unreadable. “Actually…” he began, his tone less formal, tinged with curiosity. You glanced up to find him hesitating at the door, one hand still on the handle, his brow furrowed in thought. “Why did you need the phenotype sequencing report?”

The question caught you slightly off guard, but you maintain your composure. Yeosang wasn’t typically one to pry, especially about projects outside his immediate focus. His sudden interest felt unexpected, but you kept your expression neutral, not letting on that you noticed the shift in his demeanor.

“It’s for a side project I’m working on,” you explained smoothly, keeping your tone casual and confident. “I’ve been looking into the genetic markers that might influence adaptation to different environments. The Kuku have been particularly interesting because of their extreme intelligence.”

Yeosang’s expression remained guarded, his eyes narrowing slightly as he processed your explanation. “The Kuku?” he repeated, his tone carefully neutral. “They’re not the easiest breed to study. Most researchers steer clear of them because of their unpredictability. What drew you to them?” There was an edge to his voice now, one that made your nerves tighten. 

You forced a smile, trying to maintain the facade of casual conversation. “But that’s what makes them so fascinating. Their intelligence might hold clues to how they adapt so well to different environments. If we can understand that, it could have broader implications for other breeds.”

Yeosang studied you for a moment, his expression unreadable. “And you think the sequencing report will provide those answers?”

“It’s a starting point,” you nodded confidently, leaning into your explanation. “The report allows me to compare their genetic markers with those of other breeds, which could reveal patterns or anomalies worth investigating further. It’s about building a foundation for more targeted research.”

“I see,” he said finally, though his tone still carried a trace of skepticism. “Just make sure you’re not venturing into areas that could raise questions. The Kuku are… sensitive, and it’s crucial to proceed with caution.”

“I’m aware of the challenges, I just think there’s potential here. But if there’s any concern, I’m more than happy to collaborate and keep everything above board.”

There was a brief pause, and then Yeosang nodded, though the suspicion in his eyes hadn’t completely faded. “Good,” he nodded, his tone clipped. “Just keep that in mind. I’d…hate to see any issues arise.”

“Understood,” you replied with a slight nod of your own. “I appreciate the heads up, Dr. Kang.”

With that, Yeosang gave a curt nod and turned away, his footsteps echoing down the corridor. You watched him go, a mixture of relief and unease settling over you. The day had been long and filled with tension, and you were more than ready to leave the confines of the Institute.

The flight home was unusually quiet, with only the distant roar of the wind breaking the silence. You sat in the saddle, lost in thought as Dr. Kang’s words echoed in your mind, their meaning elusive yet persistently nagging at the edges of your consciousness. As Cirrus descended onto the manor’s roof, you noticed Starshine lying obediently by the window, her tail swishing back and forth. Dismounting, you approached her.

“What are you doing out here, pretty girl?” you cooed, gently tapping her snout despite her imposing size. Starshine leaned into your touch, a soft purr resonating deep within her chest. Unlike the other dragons your family bred, she was always more docile, often reminding you more of a cat than a fearsome dragon.

You noticed her gaze was fixed on something inside, her large eyes narrowing slightly in curiosity. Following her glance, you peered into the kitchen through the large window and noticed Seonghwa helping your grandmother and Sohee prepare dinner. 

Seonghwa!?

You did a double take, eyes widened in shock at the sight of him cheerfully stirring the pot, a spatula in hand, and completely at ease, as if he had been part of your family for years. 

Your jaw dropped, and your knuckles rapped furiously against the glass, the sound sharp and insistent. Starshine tilted her head in curiosity, but you were too focused on the scene inside to notice. Seonghwa looked up at the sound, meeting your gaze with a wide, innocent grin. He waved the spatula in greeting, completely oblivious to your disbelief.

“That little–!” you muttered under your breath, eyes wide in disbelief. How Seonghwa managed to ingratiate himself effortlessly into your family was a mystery you might never solve.

You huffed in exasperation and stormed into the manor, your braid whipping your face in a disarrayed mess. Glasses slipping down your nose, you stomped through the halls, each step echoing with irritation as your leather messenger bag bounced against your hip.

“Auntie’s home!” Sohee cheered, her voice ringing with excitement as she hopped down from the chair she was standing on. Her small feet pattered across the floor as she rushed toward you, arms outstretched for a hug. 

Your gaze drifted over her shoulder, eyes narrowing at Seonghwa, who stood by the counter, utterly at ease in your kitchen. He met your stare with a casual smile, his expression open and friendly. There was something undeniably irritating about how he had charmed his way into your life—and now into your family—without so much as breaking a sweat.

You couldn’t pinpoint exactly when it had happened, but suddenly there he was, seamlessly fitting into the nooks and crannies of your life as if he had always been there. It was like discovering an unexpected puzzle piece that completed the picture perfectly.

“Did you have fun helping?” you asked your niece, keeping your tone light as if nothing were amiss.

Sohee nodded enthusiastically, her face lighting up with pride. “Seonghwa said I’m really good at cutting vegetables and even let me stir the sauce!” she exclaimed, her voice brimming with excitement.

“Seonghwa?” you repeated, arching an eyebrow as you looked down at her. “What happened to Mr. Seonghwa?”

“We’re friends now,” Sohee announced matter-of-factly, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world, leaving no room for debate. 

“How much did he pay you?” you whispered quietly enough for only your niece to hear. 

Sohee looked up at you with wide, innocent eyes, her brow furrowing in confusion. “Huh?”

“Never mind,” you said, straightening up with a sigh, though you couldn’t help the small smirk tugging at the corners of your mouth. “Why don’t you help Grandma finish dinner? I need to change and put my stuff away.” 

You glanced back at Seonghwa, who was still leaning against the counter with that infuriatingly relaxed posture. He was smiling, of course, and you could tell he was enjoying this far more than he should be.

“I didn’t realize we were to be graced with your benevolence, Lord Park,” you said, your tone half-teasing, half-exasperated.

Seonghwa raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. “But of course,” he replied, matching your tone with a mock bow. “I live to serve, my lady.”

You scoffed, crossing your arms as you shot him a pointed look. Just as you opened your mouth to retaliate, the vibration of your phone cut through the playful tension in the room. Without missing a beat, you unlocked the device and opened the message. The text was brief, but it sent a jolt through you:

[Intensive Care Bear]: Test results are in. Call me when you can.

Your stomach tightened. Whatever the results were, they clearly weren’t something Jongho wanted to discuss over text. You held up your phone, the screen still displaying Jongho’s message. 

“It’s Jongho. The test results are in.” Your playful demeanor vanished, replaced by a look of concern. “You should probably be here for this.”

You leaned back in your chair, mouth full of pasta, as Jongho’s hologram materialized before you in your home office. The cozy space was filled with the aroma of your dinner, the light from the desk lamp casting a soft glow on the walls lined with research notes and personal mementos. 

Seonghwa lounged comfortably on the sofa nearby, his legs stretched out and crossed at the ankles, holding his own bowl of pasta as you waited for Jongho to pick up the call. 

“Whaddaya got?” you mumbled around a mouthful of food, trying to balance your hunger with the urgency of the moment.

Jongho’s hologram remained composed, his virtual image sharp and precise as a digital dataset materialized beside him. “It’s a match,” he reported, his tone measured and clinical. “I had our folks run the comparison twice just to be sure.”

You set your dinner aside, your attention fully on the data streamed before you, each detail meticulously laid out. Your heart raced as you took in the results, the implications slowly sinking in.

“So what does this mean?” Seonghwa asked, breaking the silence that had fallen over the room.

You took a moment to gather your thoughts, the gravity of the findings weighing heavily on you. “There’s a significant genetic overlap,” you explained, gesturing to the data displayed before you. “Ajax shares key genetic markers with the Kuku. He’s definitely a hybrid, but not the combination we initially expected.”

Seonghwa’s brow furrowed, trying to piece together the implications of your words. “Does this confirm that he has advanced cognitive capabilities?”

“Yes,” you confirmed, your tone resolute as you leaned back in your chair. “It’s the only explanation for how he learned Cirrus’ spiral without ever being taught. Ajax’s ability to mimic such a complex maneuver through observation alone is a clear indicator of those advanced traits.”

“Cromer Labs could be developing dragons with attributes we haven’t even begun to fully understand,” Jongho’s hologram flickered slightly as he responded. “If they are, they’re unleashing forces the public isn’t prepared to handle.”

You rubbed your chin thoughtfully, the weight of the situation sinking in. “Now we have to figure out Jinsik’s whereabouts and the lab’s role in his disappearance. He might be a key piece in understanding that “trial” his father mentioned.”

As you spoke, Jongho’s hologram shifted, his tone changing to one of mild surprise as he glanced towards Seonghwa. “By the way, I didn’t know you were having dinner together.”

You picked up your bowl of pasta, taking a deliberate bite to emphasize the casual nature of the situation. “He was here before I got home. I assumed he was here to pick up Starshine.”

“Uh-huh,” Jongho mused, crossing his arms with a sly smile. “I must say, using your dragon as an excuse is quite the clever coincidence, your grace.”

You felt a flush of embarrassment rising to your cheeks, clearly caught off guard by Jongho’s insinuation. “Are you done?” you asked, trying to keep your tone light despite the heat of the moment. “I’d like to finish my food in peace!”

Jongho raised an eyebrow, his hologram flickering with a hint of mischief. “Alright, alright. I’ll drop it. Just remember to fill me in later on this dinner ‘date’–”

“Goodbye,” you said firmly, cutting him off mid-sentence as you turned off your phone. You set the device down, feeling the heat still lingering on your cheeks. Seonghwa chuckled softly, clearly amused by the exchange.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Cromer Labs Opens Its Doors: Exclusive Public Tours Available

[AURORA, EMPIRE OF AURORA] – Cromer Labs is pleased to announce the opening of its state-of-the-art research facility to the general public for guided tours. This initiative reflects our commitment to transparency and public engagement in the field of advanced scientific research.

As pioneers in advanced research and development, Cromer Labs stands at the vanguard of groundbreaking discoveries in genetic engineering and biotechnologies. Our mission is to mitigate the prevalence of inherited diseases in dragons.

Attendees will gain access to our cutting-edge laboratories and research environments, showcasing the advanced technologies and methodologies employed in our work including: 

A comprehensive overview of our current research projects, including developments in genetic engineering and biotechnology. Visitors will also have the opportunity to engage with interactive displays that will provide detailed information on our scientific processes and their potential impacts on future innovations.

We invite you to join us for this unique opportunity to witness the forefront of scientific research and innovation. 

The sleek, modern architecture of the lab’s facility loomed above you, its reflective surfaces gleaming in the sunlight. You could feel the weight of the moment pressing down on your shoulders, excitement and apprehension twisting in your gut. The press area was abuzz with activity, the hum of conversation blending with the click of cameras and the rustle of notepads. Some had their microphones at the ready, while others focused intently on their notepads, poised to jot down any notable details.

Are you okay?” Yunho’s voice broke through your thoughts, his tone light and teasing as he shot Hongjoong a curious glance. He walked with an easy confidence, his long strides effortlessly keeping pace with yours.

“This is the first time he’s seen the sun in a month,” you replied, your tone half-joking as you reached out to pat Hongjoong’s back.

Hongjoong, who had been staring intently at the ground, seemed to snap out of whatever daze he was in. He looked up at you, blinking against the brightness of the day, a slight frown tugging at his lips. “Correction: A week,” he muttered, though the pale tone of his skin and the dark circles under his eyes suggested otherwise.

“You’ve been holed up in the archives for so long, I was starting to think you were allergic to daylight,” Yunho chuckled. 

“Don’t let his father know, he might just drag him home,” you added, your tone light but with a hint of teasing. The image of Lord Kim, stern and unyielding, hauling his son away from his beloved work, flashed in your mind. It was almost enough to make you laugh. Before you could dwell on it, your attention was drawn to the arrival of Seonghwa, Lord Kim, and other members of the Assembly, their presence commanding respect as they made their way toward the lab’s entrance.

Seonghwa caught your eye as he walked alongside Hongjoong’s father, and for a moment, you were struck by the transformation he had undergone. Gone was the racing world’s golden boy who lived for speed and thrills, replaced by someone who now exuded the calm, composed demeanor of a dignified leader. His expression was serious, and there was a quiet confidence in the way he carried himself.

As your eyes met, Seonghwa gave you a small, almost imperceptible nod, a subtle acknowledgment of your presence amidst the formalities. It was a gesture that spoke volumes, a silent understanding passing between you that, despite everything, you were in this together.

The crowd’s murmur turned into a chorus of whispers as Lady Lee made her entrance with a flourish that matched the grandeur of the facility. Her walk was deliberate and graceful, each step measured to maintain an air of authority and elegance. Her heels clicked sharply against the ground adding a rhythmic emphasis to her entrance.

You glanced over at Yunho, who had fallen silent beside you, his earlier playful demeanor replaced with a more focused expression. He, like everyone else, was captivated by the presence of Lady Lee. Hongjoong, standing between the two of you, remained stiff, his eyes fixed on her as if trying to gauge her next move.

“Good afternoon, everyone,” Lady Lee’s voice rang out clearly and smoothly, amplified by the podium’s microphone. “Thank you all for joining us today at Cromer Labs. It is an honor to welcome so many esteemed members of the press, the Assembly, and our community. Today marks a significant milestone not just for Cromer Labs, but for the future of biotechnology and research itself.”

Lady Lee’s eyes swept across the crowd, meeting the gaze of several key figures. Her poise was impeccable, each word delivered with precision.

“At Cromer Labs, we are not content with merely following the advancements of our field—we aim to lead, to innovate, and to push the boundaries of what is possible when it comes to our beloved dragons. Today, we are proud to offer you a glimpse into our world. You will see our state-of-the-art laboratories, meet the brilliant minds behind our research, and witness firsthand the innovations that are poised to redefine the health and future of generations to come.” 

She gestured to the towering facility behind her, its sleek design gleaming in the afternoon sun.

“As you tour our facility today, I encourage you to look beyond the technology and the data. See the vision, the passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that drives every individual here. This is more than a lab—it is a beacon of hope for what the future can be.”

Lady Lee concluded her speech with a poised nod to the crowd, her presence commanding as she silently signaled the researchers to begin the tour.  As she stepped back, the researchers moved forward with practiced precision, their movements synchronized as they began to lead the attendees deeper into the facility. Cameras clicked, and hushed conversations sparked as the visitors were ushered into the heart of Cromer Labs.

You walked alongside Yunho and Hongjoong, but your thoughts were far from the polished presentations. The disappearance of Jinsik weighed heavily on your mind, the unresolved mystery gnawing at you with each step you took through the sterile, high-tech corridors. 

The guide’s voice droned on in the background, detailing the lab’s advancements in gene therapy, but you were only half-listening. Your focus was on the room itself—the layout, the security measures, the people. You noticed the subtle tension in the way some of the staff moved, the quick glances they exchanged, as if they were aware of something more than just the tour.

“This place feels too polished, too controlled. They’re showing us what they want us to see,” Yunho leaned in, his voice low. 

“I was thinking the same thing,” you replied quietly. “But there’s got to be more behind the scenes. We just need to find it.”

Seonghwa, walking just ahead of you, slowed his pace slightly, allowing the two of you to catch up. “We’ll need to split up at some point,” he murmured, his voice barely audible. “Cover more ground without drawing too much attention.”

You leaned in closer to Seonghwa, your voice barely above a whisper as you scanned the hallway ahead. “This is where we should split,” you said, your tone steady despite the tension coiling in your gut. “Yunho and I will pretend we got lost. It’ll be easier to slip away unnoticed if we act like we’re just trying to catch up.”

Seonghwa’s eyes flicked between you and Yunho, assessing the plan in a heartbeat. His expression remained composed, but you could see the calculation in his gaze—the weight of what you were asking him to do.

“You should stay with the rest of the Assembly members,” you continued, your voice low but firm. “If you stay with them, it won’t draw any suspicion. Hongjoong can help keep the focus off us.”

“Be careful,” he murmured, his voice a quiet command, barely more than a whisper. The simplicity of his words belied the depth of his concern. His voice held a softness, an undertone of worry he couldn’t fully mask. It was a plea disguised as advice, his calm facade barely concealing the raw edges of his anxiety.

Yunho shifted beside you, his usual lighthearted demeanor replaced with a seriousness that matched the gravity of the situation. “If we find anything, we’ll let you know.”

You took a deep breath, preparing for your cue. As the guide’s explanations became more detailed and technical, you deliberately slowed your pace, feigning interest in a nearby display. You made a show of looking confused and slightly frustrated, glancing around as if trying to find your way back to the group. Yunho mirrored your actions, keeping close but maintaining a slight distance to avoid drawing suspicion.

With one last look at you, Seonghwa hesitated, his gaze lingering. The concern in his eyes was unmistakable, a deep worry he couldn’t mask. The thought of you venturing into the unknown worried him—every part of him wanted to be by your side, ensuring your safety. But he knew the importance of maintaining the guise, keeping the tour running smoothly to avoid suspicion. Even as he seamlessly rejoined the group, engaging in light conversation and maintaining a composed demeanor, his thoughts never strayed far from you.

Navigating the dimly lit corridors of Cromer Labs, you and Yunho were on high alert, each step echoing softly in the hushed environment. The facility’s labyrinthine design seemed almost purpose-built for concealment, its stark white walls and cold metal surfaces giving little away. You had spent several minutes exploring, Yunho’s keen eyes and your own sharp instincts guiding your search. The halls were filled with locked doors and secured rooms, each labeled with technical jargon that meant little without the context of what you were looking for.

As you turned a corner, Yunho paused, his hand gently gripping your arm. “Look,” he whispered, pointing to a faint trail of scorch marks on the floor. They were barely noticeable, but to a trained eye, they were a clear sign of dragon fire. 

The trail led you both through a series of winding corridors until it opened up into the loading docks. The space was vast and industrial, a stark contrast to the pristine, clinical environment you had left behind. The docks were filled with transportation cages and shipping containers stacked in disarray. The hum of machinery and the occasional clang of metal created a backdrop of industrial noise.

Your gaze swept across the area, “What is this?” you asked yourself, eyes narrowing as you took in the scene.

The scorch marks continued across the floor, leading towards a cluster of large, heavily secured cages. These cages were not typical; they were reinforced and fitted with intricate locking mechanisms, their design suggesting they were meant to contain something more dangerous than standard cargo. Several cages showed signs of recent use—scratches on the metal, faint burn marks around the locks, and disturbed packing materials scattered around. 

Yunho’s eyes fell on a partially open container nearby. The door was ajar, and the interior was dark. With a cautious nod, you both approached and peered inside. The sight that greeted you was troubling—inside the container were several large, empty cages, their contents missing but still bearing traces of dragon fire. The metal was scorched and blackened, indicating a significant amount of heat had been applied.

Yunho stepped closer, his eyes scanning the interior with a mix of concern and determination. “These cages are big enough to transport juveniles,” he observed, his voice low but firm.

You glanced around the container, noting the disarray. The floor was littered with remnants of broken restraints and scattered straw, suggesting a hasty departure. The air was thick with the acrid smell of burnt metal and something else—fear, perhaps.

You ran a hand along the edge of one of the cages. The metal was still warm to the touch, a stark reminder of the recent violence. “They must have transported them elsewhere right as the tour started,” you murmured, your voice barely above a whisper. The thought of the creatures being moved under such duress sent a shiver down your spine.

Without wasting a moment, you pulled out your phone, taking photos of the scorched cages, capturing the blackened metal and the remnants of chains. You made sure to document every detail—the size of the cages, the pattern of the scorch marks, and the broken restraints. Yunho joined you, narrating the scene as he moved the camera around the container. 

“I have a bad feeling about this,” you muttered, shaking your head as you quickly typed out a brief message to Seonghwa and Hongjoong, detailing your findings and urging them to review the photos. You glanced around, hoping to find any further evidence—shipping logs, scales, anything that could provide more clues. 

The rhythmic clatter of boots caught your attention, accompanied by the occasional murmur of voices. You and Yunho exchanged a tense glance, your senses on high alert. The footsteps were heavy and deliberate, suggesting a group of staff members making their rounds. The jingle of keys and the creak of a nearby door opening added to the tension. You could hear the faint rustle of clothing and the occasional cough, indicating their proximity.

Your heart raced as you motioned for Yunho to stay quiet, your finger pressed to your lips. You both pressed yourselves against the container, trying to blend into the shadows. The footsteps grew louder, and you could see the beam of a flashlight sweeping across the room.

“Looks like the latest shipment has already been taken down to the lab for processing.”

“Yeah, I saw the transport teams moving those dragons earlier,” the second guard replied, his tone carrying a hint of unease. “It’s a lot of dragons to handle all at once.”

“Tell me about it,” the first staff member replied. “Heard they’re prepping them for some new kind of project.”

The second guard’s brow furrowed. “A new project? With the kids?”

The mention of “kids” made your heart skip a beat. You and Yunho exchanged worried glances, fully grasping the gravity of the situation. Your muscles tensed as the light crept closer to your hiding spot, casting ominous shadows where you crouched. 

As the guards’ conversation began to drift away, the sound of their boots grew fainter. The flashlight beam pulled back, casting fewer shadows in the immediate area. You and Yunho remained motionless, barely daring to breathe as the footsteps receded into the distance. The door creaked shut behind them, its sound echoing with a finality that left both of you trembling in the aftermath.

You waited a few more seconds to ensure the coast was clear before slowly easing out of your hiding spot. Your pulse was still racing, and Yunho’s expression mirrored your own, both of you silently grappling with the disturbing implications of what you had overheard. His eyes met yours, filled with urgency and determination. 

“We need to move quickly before they come back.”

Nodding, you both began to move, your footsteps as silent as you could manage, the need for speed warring with the necessity of stealth. The close call had left you both on edge, every sound and shadow now seeming like a potential threat. 

Yeosang’s gaze remained fixed on the monitors as he watched you and Yunho track the trail of scorch marks leading out to the loading docks. The tension in the room was palpable, but Yeosang remained unnervingly calm, his mind already churning with possibilities.

“We need to stop them!” Minjae’s voice broke through the tense silence, his tone laced with urgency. He moved toward the controls, but Yeosang calmly raised a hand, silencing his assistant with a single, measured gesture. Minjae hesitated, his eyes darting between the monitors and Yeosang, clearly struggling to understand why they weren’t intervening.

“No.” Yeosang’s voice was cold and calculating, a stark contrast to Minjae’s frantic energy. He turned slowly, his gaze settling on the massive incubation tube dominating the room behind him. The dragon inside was suspended in a thick, translucent liquid, its enormous form outlined in an eerie, otherworldly glow. The creature was still, its eyes closed, its breath slow and even, as if lost in a deep, dreamless sleep.

For a moment, Yeosang studied the dragon, his expression unreadable. The beast was a marvel of bioengineering, a living weapon with untapped potential. “Tell me…How was the last trial?” his voice was smooth but laced with an underlying tension.

“The candidate exhibited a high level of initial compatibility. However, as the process progressed, there were significant issues. We observed severe neural disruptions, and the subject experienced extreme mental strain.”

He eyed the neural interface, the console lying abandoned next to the incubation tube. “And the candidate?”

Minjae shifted uneasily. “The candidate was stabilized, but the mental strain left lasting effects. They experienced severe psychological trauma, and recovery is ongoing.”

Yeosang’s lips curled into a faint, inscrutable smile as his attention shifted back to the screens. Your every move with Yunho was reflected in his glasses, casting a cold, blue light across his face. “The search continues. But perhaps…”

He watched intently as you both navigated the maze of shipping containers, his eyes narrowing with interest. The determination in your movements was unmistakable as you and Yunho pieced together the dark secrets hidden within the facility. 

“The right candidate is closer than we think.” 

<< x | xii >>

taglist: @litolmochi @syubseokie @park-simphwa @szakias @babymbbatinygirl @oddracha @maliamaiden @signingsongbird

away with the wind | x

Pairing: dragonrider!Seonghwa x ex-dragonrider!Reader AU: dragon rider au | strangers -> lovers Summary: a spinal injury forces you to retire from dragon racing, and with it, the end of your engagement to Song Mingi. Park Seonghwa, a rising star in the world of dragon racing and heir to the prestigious House Park, seeks a new dragon after an unfortunate accident on the skyway. As the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Word Count: 5.2K Warnings: poor use of biology and science terms, mentions of child abduction, dragon poop (because I'm immature)

a/n: finally no more filler chapters

Fic Masterlist

The grand chambers of the capitol building echoed with the weight of authority. High lords, resplendent in their embroidered robes and suits, gathered in the chambers set for another day of debate. Yunho rushed past the oncoming crowd, his footsteps a hurried staccato against the marble floor. He weaved through the throng of lords and officials, his eyes fixed on his destination. With a quick, practiced motion, he handed Seonghwa the agenda of the day before bowing out, his duty fulfilled for the moment.

Amidst the orderly chaos, a cry pierced the air. “My son, please help me find my son!” The voice was raw, breaking with emotion. A man, disheveled and desperate, moved through the crowd, his eyes wide with panic. He approached every assembly member and lord he encountered as they passed through the rotunda, but they all brushed past him, too engrossed in their own affairs to notice his plight.

Ham Jinsu was frantic and desperate. He moved through the corridors with a sense of urgency, his hands trembling slightly as he clutched a photograph of his missing son. His voice, though breaking with emotion, carried a determined plea for help. The lines on his face deepened with each passing moment, reflecting the weight of his fear and the depth of his love for his child.

“Please sir, my son is missing!” he implored, his voice echoing off the grand pillars and high ceilings.

A lord brushed past him, bumping his shoulder without a single look. The indifference stung, but Jinsu pressed on, his desperation giving him strength.

“My son is missing, I need help. Please, anyone!” he cried out again, his voice growing hoarse.

Yet his pleas fell on deaf ears. The assembly members and lords continued their march towards the chambers, their minds occupied with the day’s agenda, oblivious to the man’s suffering. Jinsu’s heart ached with each step he took, the photograph in his hand a constant reminder of his missing child. The grand hall, with all its splendor and authority, felt cold and unyielding, a stark contrast to the warmth and love he sought to reclaim.

“I see Lady Lee is here today,” Seonghwa said quietly to Lord Kim as they observed the assembly room, his eyes discreetly following Lady Lee’s entrance.

Lord Kim glanced in her direction and raised an eyebrow. “That she is.” 

Seonghwa shifted his gaze back to Sangjoong, his curiosity evident. “By the way, I’ve been meaning to ask—what was the nature of your conversation with Lady Lee the other day? You mentioned she had personal matters to attend to.”

“Indeed. She was rather vague about the details of these ‘personal matters.’ What struck me as odd was how emphatic she was about their urgency. It seemed rather out of character for her, considering her usual commitment to events that align with her interests.”

“It does seem peculiar. I wonder if there might be more to her absence than she let on. Her sudden, unexplained absence from such an important gathering certainly raises questions,” Seonghwa observed. 

Lord Kim’s gaze drifted back to Lady Lee, who was now engaging in animated conversation with another member of the Assembly. “Perhaps. It’s worth keeping an eye on her. Sometimes, what seems like a simple excuse can be a cover for more significant matters.”

The chamber’s air was charged with the weight of the day’s agenda, a pivotal decision that could shape the future of their society. Madame President Jung, a figure of calm authority, stood at the podium, her gaze sweeping over the assembly.

“What do we have before us today, Lady Lee?”

“Madame President, esteemed colleagues,” Lady Lee began, her tone resolute and clear, “We stand at a critical juncture in our efforts to advance dragon behavior research and ensure the safety and well-being of both our dragons and their riders. The recent incident at the Inferno Cup has underscored the urgent need for innovative solutions to address behavioral issues that can arise in these magnificent creatures.”

She paused briefly, allowing her words to resonate. The Assembly’s members shifted in their seats, clearly engaged as Lady Lee continued.

“Today I propose we bring Cromer Labs on board in the proposal process,” she announced confidently, her voice carrying across the hall.

The Assembly responded with a mix of murmurs; some lords nodded in agreement, while others exchanged skeptical glances. Lord Kim locked eyes with Seonghwa who had been quietly observing from his seat. With a look of deep concern, Seonghwa suddenly rose to his feet.

“Do you have something to say, Lord Park?” Madame Jung inquired. 

“I do, Madame President. Colleagues,” Seonghwa began, his voice resonating with conviction, “we cannot, in good conscience, align ourselves with an organization so novel that it seeks to overshadow the millennia of knowledge and ethical standards upheld by the Institute.”

The room fell silent, the weight of his words sinking in. Lady Lee’s face flushed with a mix of frustration and disbelief. 

“Lord Park, while I respect your opinion, Cromer Labs has shown remarkable innovation. We need fresh perspectives to tackle the challenges we face.”

Seonghwa met her gaze, his eyes narrowing slightly. “Innovation is crucial, Lady Lee, but so is experience and ethical integrity. The Institute has a proven track record of balancing progress with the well-being of dragons. They are the better option for guiding us through this transition.”

Lady Lee took a deep breath, her initial frustration giving way to a more measured tone. “I understand your concerns, Lord Park. Yet, we must also consider the potential benefits that Cromer Labs offers. Their pioneering methods and technologies have the potential to significantly enhance safety and management practices. We cannot overlook the advancements they bring to the table.”

Seonghwa remained unfazed, his expression as cold as ever. “And what might those advancements be?” 

Lady Lee’s eyes flashed with malice. “Cromer Labs offers us a chance to break free from their outdated methods and truly advance. Their genetic research holds the potential to significantly reduce the incidence of hereditary diseases and other health issues that currently affect our dragons. This could lead to a healthier population overall, which also means healthier temperaments.”

"And what is it that Cromer Labs can do that the Institute cannot?" he asked, his tone laced with skepticism. Are you so eager to embrace Cromer's methods because the Institute's standards are too... antiquated for your tastes? Or is it simply that you have a personal, vested interest?"

As Seonghwa's words lingered, the rest of the high lords and ladies shifted uneasily. A few exchanged uneasy glances, while others murmured in hushed tones, the tension in the room palpable. Lady Lee's eyes blazed with fury, and she opened her mouth to retort, but before she could, Madame Jung brought the hammer down onto the gavel. 

"Perhaps this discussion is better suited for another time," Madame Jung interjected, her voice soothing as she gave Seonghwa a pointed look. "We have many matters to attend to today, and I'm sure we all want to ensure that our priorities remain aligned."

Seonghwa simply leaned back in his chair, the ghost of a smirk playing on his lips, satisfied that he'd achieved exactly what he intended.

With Yunho’s task completed, he took the opportunity to take a breather, his shoulders easing as the weight of responsibility momentarily lifted. The capitol building, usually a place where he felt the constant press of duty, seemed almost distant now–it was a place of wealth and power, a world where appearances mattered more than substance.

Yet, even as he observed this, something pulled his attention away from the hollowness of his settings. A distress call. Without a second thought, Yunho moved toward the man, his long strides purposeful. As he approached, he noticed the tremor in the man's hands, the way his breath hitched with every sob. This was no ordinary outcry—this was a father's grief, raw and unfiltered.

“Excuse me sir? Is your son missing?”

“Yes!” he choked out, his voice breaking. “Yes, m-my son Jinsik has gone missing!” The words tumbled out in a rush, as he gathered himself before the handler. “He was last seen at the skyway—he’s training to be a rider!”

“A rider? Did he want to pursue a career in racing?” Yunho's mind raced as he processed the urgency of the situation. Yet, in Jinsu's trembling form and tear-streaked face, Yunho recognized a father's determination and the sheer desperation of a man clinging to hope.

“He was a student at the academy and was recruited by Cromer Labs! They were covering his training expenses and even provided him with a dragon. Here’s his photo!” 

Yunho took the photo carefully, his eyes scanning the image of a young boy with a bright, hopeful smile. The boy’s face was full of promise, a future ahead of him that had been cruelly snatched away. But what truly caught Yunho’s attention was the mention of Cromer Labs.

“Come with me,” Yunho said quietly, slipping the photograph back into the man’s hands and placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. His voice was low, meant only for the man’s ears, as he guided him away. “There’s someone who might be able to help.”

The weight of the day’s endless meetings, tiresome discussions, and layers of bureaucracy clung to Seonghwa like an unwelcome shadow. His head ached from the sheer monotony of it all—the endless back-and-forth over trivial matters, the careful balancing of politics, the feigned interest in matters that bored him.

Swinging the door open, his plans for solitude were quickly dashed–he found Yunho and a disheveled man sitting there, waiting for him. 

“You’re back!” Yunho’s voice cut through the silence, relief evident in his tone as he stood up. 

“I’m back,” he confirmed, his gaze shifting from Yunho to the stranger sitting beside him. “And this is…?”

“Y-You’re Park Seonghwa,” Jinsu stammered, his voice trembling with a mix of nerves and admiration. “The Park Seonghwa. I never thought… I never imagined I’d be sitting here, in front of you!”

Seonghwa, who was used to such reactions, offered a small, almost weary smile. “Well,” he drawled, leaning back against the doorframe with a raised eyebrow, “this is certainly not what I expected to find when I returned. To what do I owe the pleasure?”

“Ah, this is Ham Jinsu,” Yunho explained, his voice taking on a more serious note. “He needs our help.”

Seonghwa’s brow furrowed slightly, his gaze shifting to Jinsu, who was now clutching a photograph. “My son, Jinsik, was training to be a rider,” he added. “He’s been following your career since you started all those years ago. He idolized you. Wanted to be just like you.”

He took a step closer, his eyes fixed on the photograph Jinsu held. “May I?” he asked gently, reaching out. Jinsu hesitated for a moment before handing over the picture, his hands shaking slightly.

“We couldn’t afford to send him to a traditional training center or hire a trainer. That’s when Cromer Labs stepped in and recruited him from the academy. They covered the training fees, and even provided him with a dragon that he kept boarded at their facility. He was last seen at the skyway just before it closed.” 

“Cromer Labs,” Seonghwa repeated, his voice carefully controlled, though there was an edge to it. Seonghwa recalled his conversation with you about Cromer Labs and how they had engaged Mingi in the same process 10 years ago.

“Did the lab expect anything in return? Was there anything unusual about his training?”

Jinsu shook his head. “No… He was so excited about the opportunity. He mentioned that if he completed his training and passed the final trial, they’d sponsor him. It seemed like everything he ever wanted, and he worked hard to prove himself.”

“And no one saw him after the skyway closed?” Seonghwa asked, his tone probing gently but firmly. His instincts told him that there was more to this situation as he and Yunho exchanged looks. 

“Nothing,” Jinsu replied, his voice breaking slightly. “It’s like he just vanished.”

“There could be more at play here,” Yunho commented, his voice steady as he turned back to Jinsu. “Are you aware of other missing children?”

Jinsu shook his head. “Not that I know of. But if I do I’ll be sure to let you know,” he sighed, tightening his grip on the photograph. “This means so much to my family, your grace. I can’t thank you enough for your support.” 

Seonghwa’s gaze softened slightly, though his mind remained focused. “We’ll do everything we can to find Jinsik. If you think of anything else, no matter how small, please let us know immediately. Every detail could be important.”

“Thank you. Thank you so much, your grace,” Jinsu nodded vigorously, his eyes reflecting a glimmer of hope after what seemed like an eternity. 

For both Seonghwa and Yunho, the gravity of the situation was clear, and both understood that the investigation into Jinsik’s disappearance would likely lead them into dangerous and uncharted territory.

“Cromer Labs,” Seonghwa muttered, his arms crossed. “Lady Lee just so happened to try and convince the rest of the Assembly to work with them in the proposal process for the behavioral study.”

Yunho’s eyes narrowed, his expression growing more serious. “Do you think there’s a link with Jinsik’s disappearance?”

Seonghwa sighed deeply, his fingers pressing into his temples as if to ward off the mounting tension. “It might explain why she wasn’t at the gala or General Choi’s birthday celebration. Her absence wasn’t just coincidental,” he muttered, more to himself than to Yunho. “But there’s still nothing connecting her with Cromer Labs or Jinsik—not yet, at least. I should probably swing by the Institute.”

Yunho tilted his head, a knowing smirk playing at the corners of his lips. “Why the sudden rush?” he asked, though his tone suggested he already knew the answer.

Seonghwa shot him a look, though there was no real heat behind it. “I need to loop Hongjoong in on this.”

“Uh-huh. You mean, “Kim Hongjoong who only goes home once a month and is going to ask you to return all the overdue scrolls you’ve borrowed”, Kim Hongjoong.”

“This is about work, Yunho. There are serious things at play.”

Yunho rolled his eyes, understanding Seonghwa’s true intentions. “Y/N is not going to be happy if you show up unannounced. She has an actual job that requires her full undivided attention. It’s not like she’s just sitting around waiting for you to show up.”

“Go away,” you said, not bothering to look up as you typed furiously. Your voice was muffled by the sea of papers on your desk.

“But it’s important!” Seonghwa pleaded, his tone a mix of frustration and playful annoyance. He leaned against the doorframe, watching you with a frown. This wasn’t the Park Seonghwa you were accustomed to, and it was probably your fault for indulging him the night of General Choi’s celebration.

You paused for a moment, your fingers hovering over the keyboard as you considered whether or not to entertain him. “What?”

“Come with me to see Hongjoong,” he pleaded, his eyes searching yours for any willingness.

“Are you serious right now?” you retorted, eyes narrowing as you considered the interruption. “I’m sifting through six months of work because someone begged me to train him. I don’t have the luxury of assisting you on your side quests.”

“But you could,” he pouted slightly, crossing his arms defensively.

“Could I now?” you shot back, sarcasm dripping from your words. “I can think of someone else who might want to hear about your ‘important’ mission.” Without warning you wheeled your swivel chair away from your desk and stuck your head out into the hallway. 

“Wooyoung! Wooyoung, Lord Park is here to see you!” Your voice echoed down the hall, and you knew it would carry straight to your boss’s office. It was times like these that you were grateful for his open door policy. 

Seonghwa’s eyes widened in panic, and he straightened up, looking genuinely alarmed. “No, please! Don’t do that!”

“Oh, I’m sure he’ll be thrilled to have you here. You know how he loves to dig into your personal life.” You smirked, enjoying his reaction.

Seonghwa’s expression softened, a sheepish grin creeping onto his face. “Alright, I get it. I’ll back off,” he said, raising his hands up in defense. “But there is something you should know.”

“And what’s that?” You asked, your playful demeanor quickly fading. 

Seonghwa glanced out the door as if making sure no one else was around to overhear. Then, he leaned in slightly, his voice low. “You’ll find out if you go down to the archives with me.”

“Fine,” you muttered, feeling the last of your resistance crumble. As you followed him out, you couldn’t help but wonder what exactly you were getting yourself into this time—and why, despite the nagging voice of caution in the back of your mind, you were looking forward to finding out.

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” Hongjoong muttered, clearly unimpressed by the unexpected visitor. His eyes narrowed as he scanned Seonghwa’s face, then shifted to you. “Last I checked, a Lord should not be shirking his duties to the people of Aurora.” 

“There’s a first time for everything. Besides, I thought you might want to hear something.” 

“And you couldn’t just send me a message like a normal person? What, did you need an audience or something?”

“It’s about Cromer Labs.”

You and Hongjoong exchanged a glance, both of you immediately sensing the gravity of the situation. You could feel a knot tightening in your stomach, a creeping sense of anxiety at what Seonghwa had to share.

His expression was grim, his usual confident demeanor overshadowed by the weight of the news he was about to deliver. “A student recruited by the lab has gone missing,” he said, his voice low and serious.

“Missing?” Hongjoong repeated, his tone laced with suspicion. “For how long?” His eyes narrowed, and you saw his jaw clench slightly as he processed the information. 

“Right before the skyway closed,” Seonghwa replied, his gaze shifting between the two of you. “His name is Ham Jinsik. He was recruited under the pretense of becoming a rider. They gave him a dragon and were training him. But one day, he just… vanished. No one’s seen or heard from him since.”

You felt a chill run down your spine, the implications of Seonghwa’s words sinking in. “A child has gone missing and no one’s done anything about it? How is that possible?”

Seonghwa shook his head, his frustration clear. “His father has been desperately trying to get anyone to listen. He showed up at the Assembly today, but he was rebuffed until Yunho ran into him. What’s even more troubling is that his father mentioned something about a trial.”

You stared at Seonghwa, your concern quickly morphing into anger. “A trial? Cromer Labs is running trials on minors now?” you demanded, your voice seething with fury. “Did the father say anything else?”

Seonghwa shook his head, his expression troubled. “No, not much. He mentioned that Jinsik would receive full sponsorship once he completed it. The details were sparse, and he looked like he was barely holding it together.”

Your anger only intensified, a seething fury bubbling just beneath the surface. The gravity of the situation hit you with full force, and you struggled to keep your voice steady. “What else?” you pressed. “There must be more to this.”

Seonghwa hesitated for a moment, clearly sensing your growing frustration. “Lady Lee was pushing hard for Cromer Labs to lead the behavioral research project,” he finally added. “She made a presentation to the full Assembly earlier today.”

The revelation struck you, and you took a moment to process the connection. “So get us an in with the lab,” you suggested. The idea had struck you suddenly, the connection between Lady Lee and the Cromer Labs was too significant to ignore. It wasn’t just a coincidence—it was a potential opening, a narrow window that could lead you closer to the truth.

But before you could even finish the thought, Hongjoong’s eyes widened, and he shot you a look that was equal parts disbelief and concern. “Are you crazy?” he blurted out, the words escaped him before he could temper his tone. “Do you even know what you’re asking? Getting close to her could be dangerous—no, it will be dangerous.”

“It’s a viable plan,” you countered, though the slight tremor in your voice betrayed the uncertainty you were trying to suppress. “And I’m not saying it’s without risk. But we can’t afford to keep chasing our tails when we have all the pieces right before us. If Lady Lee is our way into the lab, we have to take a chance,” you pressed on, feeling the weight of the decision settle on your shoulders. “Especially when missing children are involved.”

Seonghwa nodded in agreement, his expression growing more resolute. “If Cromer Labs is as involved as we suspect, every moment we delay could be critical. We need to act on this opportunity,” he finally said.

The archives fell into a tense silence as Hongjoong considered Seonghwa’s words. His expression shifted from frustration to reluctant agreement. “Do either of you have a plan?”

“Seonghwa should charm his way into Lady Lee’s good graces,” you suggested, your tone practical and decisive as you turned to face him. “Approach her with a request to open up a tour of the facility—something that seems entirely plausible and public facing.”

Seonghwa made a face, one that mixed both skepticism and mild distaste. “I’d rather not, but it would give us an opportunity to gather more information without arousing suspicion.”

“You’ll need to do more than just flatter her. We’ll have to provide compelling reasons why a tour of the facility would be beneficial for her. Play it up with the rest of the Assembly,” Hongjoong added, his expression thoughtful. 

“And then what?” Seonghwa asked. 

“The public gains access to the facility,” you explained. “We’ll blend in with the crowd and use the opportunity to gather as much information as we can. Our goal is to identify key areas of interest, such as restricted zones or locations where sensitive activities might be taking place.”

Seonghwa’s expression shifted from skepticism to determination, signaling his readiness to tackle the challenge ahead. “Well then, I guess we’ll have to play our parts convincingly then.”

“Lord Park Seonghwa is requesting a meeting with you, my lady.”

Lady Lee glanced up from her work, her eyes narrowing slightly in thought. “Lord Park, you say?” She tapped her chin thoughtfully with her pen, considering the implications of such a request. “Very well. Send him in.”

As Seonghwa entered Lady Lee's office, he offered a courteous bow before taking a seat across from her. “Lady Lee, thank you for meeting with me today,” he began, his tone carefully measured.

Lady Lee acknowledged him with a nod, her curiosity piqued. “Of course, Lord Park. What brings you here?”

Seonghwa took a deep breath, his expression a practiced blend of professionalism and feigned humility. “ I wanted to take this moment to address the recent debate we had. I realize it might have seemed more confrontational than I intended. I apologize if it caused any frustration or misunderstanding.”

“I appreciate your candor. Though I assume it is the nature of being a fledgling Lord?” Lady Lee raised an eyebrow, momentarily caught off guard by his directness. 

Seonghwa smiled, his demeanor composed. “It’s certainly true that the role can sometimes lead to passionate discussions. Nevertheless, I believe it’s important to address any concerns directly and with respect. I hope we can move past any previous tensions.”

Lady Lee nodded, her curiosity shifting back to the current discussion. “Very well. What is it you wish to discuss today?”

“I’ve taken your presentation during the Assembly today into consideration. Upon further reflection, I find your proposal quite compelling,” Seonghwa began, his tone both measured and thoughtful. He paused for a moment, allowing his words to sink in before continuing. 

“I propose that a public tour of the facility could provide valuable exposure for Cromer Labs and highlight the significant advancements being made there. This initiative could foster a stronger connection with the community, showcasing the lab’s commitment to innovation and excellence.”

He gauged Lady Lee’s reaction, noting her thoughtful expression. With a smooth transition, he continued, “Moreover, such a tour could serve as an educational opportunity, inspiring future generations of scientists and researchers. It would also allow the Assembly to address any public concerns directly, building trust and support for ongoing projects.”

Lady Lee’s reaction was thoughtful as she listened to Seonghwa’s words. She nodded slowly, her eyes focused intently on him as she weighed his proposal. Her demeanor suggested she was carefully considering the broader implications of the tour, reflecting on both its educational value and its potential to address public concerns. 

“Your proposal is indeed intriguing, Lord Park,” she began, her voice calm yet authoritative. “A public tour could certainly enhance our visibility and foster goodwill within the community. I will discuss these points further with my team and assess the proposal’s viability.” 

Seonghwa smiled appreciatively, sensing that his approach had struck the right chord. “Thank you, Lady Lee. I look forward to the possibility of working together on this initiative.”

As Seonghwa left the office with a deep bow, he felt a surge of confidence. His plan was now in motion, and everything needed to access Cromer Labs was set.

“Uh, Dr. Kang?” Minjae began nervously, his voice barely above a whisper.

Yeosang, deeply engrossed in the delicate dissection of a dragon limb, barely glanced up. “Hm?” he replied absently, focused on his work.

“We just got a request from Y/N in Conservation,” Minjae continued, trying to keep his voice steady. “She’s asking for a phenotype sequencing report for a Nettled Kuku.”

Yeosang’s hands paused mid-motion as he finally looked up, a hint of irritation crossing his face. “A Kuku?”

Minjae shifted uncomfortably, sensing the growing tension. “It came in about an hour ago. Y/N mentioned it’s urgent for their ongoing project. Should I prioritize it?”

Yeosang sighed, placing his tools down with a deliberate clink. “Alright, get it sorted.”

Minjae nodded quickly, relief visible in his expression. “Understood.”

As Minjae hurried out of the lab, Yeosang’s thoughts lingered on the oddity of the situation. He returned to his work, his mind racing with questions about your motives and the true urgency behind the request.

“Is it necessary for you to gather every little thing about Ajax?” San scrunched his nose in mild irritation as he watched you sift through the cluttered remnants of the dragon’s lair. 

Mingi had always prided himself on his independence, but at San’s father’s insistence, the Choi family provided Ajax with a dedicated lair in their caverns. Once a grand and imposing space, Ajax’s dwelling was now a chaotic mess of shattered scales and scorched bones. Dust and debris floated through the air with every movement, catching the flickering light of the torch.

“I can’t overlook anything that might have DNA evidence,” you replied, carefully examining a cracked bone that could potentially hold valuable traces. San sighed and leaned against the cavern wall, his arms crossed and a look of both curiosity and annoyance on his face. 

“How are you supposed to find anything useful in all this debris?”

You paused, meeting his gaze with a determined expression. “Ajax’s DNA is all over this place. I need to collect enough samples for Jongho to run it against the phenotype sequencing report and check for a match with the Kuku.”

San raised an eyebrow. “And why not do it through the Institute? Wouldn’t it be more efficient?”

“The report given to the Council isn’t entirely reliable. We need to ensure accuracy ourselves, without any potential bias or errors from external sources,” you replied, shaking your head. 

"I'm surprised you're going through all this trouble for Park Seonghwa," San smirked, watching you pick up one of Ajax’s discarded scales. 

You paused for a moment, meeting his eyes with a resolute expression. “It’s not about helping Park Seonghwa. It’s about uncovering the truth, particularly with a missing child involved and the threat of unstable dragons like Ajax disrupting the natural balance.”

You shook the bag of DNA evidence in front of San, the clink of the vials inside breaking the silence between you. “Let’s get this to Jongho,” you said, determination in your voice as you tucked the bag securely under your arm. 

As you and San emerged from the Choi’s caverns, he glanced over at you with a contemplative look. The two of you walked in silence for a moment, the quiet of the surroundings amplifying the tension between you.

“I couldn’t help but notice how happy you seemed the other night,” he remarked, as you left the Choi’s caverns. His tone suggested there was more to the story. “I have to ask—do you have feelings for Seonghwa?”

His question hung in the air, charged with an underlying sense of knowing. San’s gaze was steady, suggesting he sensed there was more to your relationship with Seonghwa than just friendship. 

You hesitated, caught off guard by his perceptiveness. For a moment, you tried to gather your thoughts, the impact of his words settling in.

“Oh come on,” you said with a half-hearted laugh in an attempt to downplay the situation. “It’s not as complicated as you’re making it out to be. I was his trainer.”

San raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. He continued to observe you as if waiting for a more sincere response. “I’m not buying it,” he said firmly.

You sighed and turned to face him, forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach your eyes. “Look,” you said, trying to downplay the situation, “the idea of being with Seonghwa is laughable. He’ll find a suitable match from a noble Lady—someone who'll make a fine mistress for his House. And I’m sure she won’t yell at him every time he screws up a maneuver on the skyway.”

San’s expression softened slightly, though skepticism remained in his eyes. He leaned in with a teasing tone, “There’s nothing wrong with being honest with yourself, Y/N.”

You glanced down, feeling a twinge of frustration as you fidgeted with the items in your bag. “I’m fine with how things are,” you said, your voice steady but strained. “I’d rather not complicate them.” 

You knew San’s persistent curiosity struck a nerve, one that you were desperately trying to avoid. The thought of potentially disrupting your relationship with Seonghwa loomed over you like a storm cloud–the possibility of a rift was daunting, and you weren’t ready to confront those uncertainties. The idea of opening up about your feelings seemed too risky, especially when the stakes were so high.

As you rummaged through your bag, searching for anything to distract from the uncomfortable conversation, your hand closed around a small jar filled with what looked like fossilized rocks. 

“Keep asking me about my feelings,” you warned with a smirk, “and I’ll throw dragon poop at you.”

<< daylight | xi >>

a/n: I swear more action packed chapters are coming, we've reached the turning point in the story. also thanks to xikers for existing because I needed more characters to make cameos

taglist: @litolmochi @syubseokie @park-simphwa @szakias @babymbbatinygirl @oddracha @maliamaiden @signingsongbird

away with the wind | daylight

Pairing: dragonrider!Seonghwa x ex-dragonrider!Reader AU: dragon rider au | strangers -> lovers Summary: a spinal injury forces you to retire from dragon racing, and with it, the end of your engagement to Song Mingi. Park Seonghwa, a rising star in the world of dragon racing and heir to the prestigious House Park, seeks a new dragon after an unfortunate accident on the skyway. As the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Word Count: 6.1K Warnings: not proofread, fluff-ish? alcohol consumption

a/n: version 2 of chapter ix

Fic Masterlist

The grand chamber was dimly lit, the only sources of light being the flickering holographic displays and the soft glow of the council members’ robes. The air was thick with anticipation as the council awaited the presentation.

“Ready whenever you are, Dr. Kang,” Lord Hong announced, his voice resonating through the chamber.

Yeosang, standing beside the holographic projector, bowed respectfully. He took a moment to adjust the hologram, ensuring every detail of Ajax’s anatomy was perfectly visible. The room fell silent as the intricate projection came to life, displaying the necropsy report for Subject 4201.

“Necropsy report for Subject 4201. Subject is a male, approximately 11 years old, measuring 20 feet in height with a wingspan of 40 feet. Initial examination reveals extensive claw marks along the dorsal scales, likely from recent combat.”

Yeosang zoomed in on the damage inflicted by Starshine during the Inferno Cup. Lady Lee brought her hand to her mouth in feigned horror, prompting Yeosang to roll his eyes at her theatrics. He then brought up the next holographic display.

Swiping over to the dragon’s head, Yeosang brought forward the manifestation of Ajax’s brain, enhancing the size of the organ for the Council’s scrutiny. 

“The brain shows signs of abnormal growth in the amygdala, the region associated with aggression and fear responses. This hypertrophy suggests heightened aggression and unstable behavior. Further examination of the neural pathways reveals signs of synaptic plasticity, which may indicate a history of adaptive responses to high-stress environments. This could result in unpredictable and erratic behavior patterns.”

“Is this a common trait in Longhorns, Dr. Kang?” Lord Kim interjected.

Yeosang maintained his composed demeanor, though he felt slightly irritated at Lord Kim’s prodding. Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, he ensured his tone remained respectful yet authoritative. 

“While hypertrophy in the amygdala is not uncommon in Longhorns, the extent of the growth observed here is unusual,” he explained, his voice steady. “Further studies are necessary to determine if this is an isolated case or indicative of a broader trend within the species.”

Lord Kim nodded, the soft rustle of his robes barely audible as he leaned back in his chair. Yeosang then moved on to the next hologram, which flickered to life, casting a light that manifested into Ajax above their heads.

“In summary, subject 4201 exhibits significant physiological power and complexity,” Yeosang began, his voice steady and clear. The hologram displayed intricate details of the dragon’s anatomy, each scale and muscle rendered with precision. “I’ve concluded that the observed unpredictable behavior indicates potential neurological instability. End of report.”

Chairman Jang’s eyes narrowed as he leaned forward, the light catching the sharp angles of his face. “And the report of parentage?” he asked.

Yeosang adjusted the hologram, bringing up a new set of data. “The DNA test results showed no significant anomalies, your grace. The dragon’s genetic makeup is consistent with what we have documented in our archives. There are no indications of any unusual lineage or mutations.”

Lord Kim studied him for a moment, his gaze penetrating. “Are you certain, Dr. Kang? This information is crucial to understanding where this Longhorn may have originated from.”

Yeosang nodded, maintaining his calm facade. “Yes, your grace. I am certain. The DNA results confirm that this dragon is of standard lineage.”

“Lord Kim, we have all the information we need. Continuing this investigation is a waste of our resources and time,” Lady Lee snapped, her voice sharp and echoing slightly in the grand council room.

“We need to be thorough,” Lord Kim insisted, his tone unwavering. The flickering light from the hologram cast shadows across his stern face, highlighting the furrow in his brow.

“The dragon’s physiology and neurological state are well-documented. We have other priorities that demand our attention,” she countered, her words heavy with urgency.

Lord Hong nodded in agreement, the soft rustle of his robes breaking the silence. “Lady Lee is right. We are diverting valuable time and effort. This report should be concluded.” His voice was measured, a stark contrast to the rising tension between his colleagues.

“If Dr. Kang has reported no abnormalities in his findings, then we must move on to the next agenda item,” Chairman Jang interjected with finality. “Thank you for your time, Dr. Kang.”

The room fell silent, the air thick with unresolved conflict. Yeosang remained silent, grateful that the focus had shifted away from his lie, but acutely aware of the brewing storm between the Council members.

“Would it be possible for the copies of the report to be made available, Dr. Kang?” Lord Kim interjected, his eyes boring into Yeosang, challenging him to reveal the truth.

Yeosang hesitated, his fingers trembling slightly as he adjusted his glasses. “The report is rather unremarkable, your grace,” he replied coldly, staring straight at the elder.

Lord Hong’s eyes narrowed. “Is there a problem, Dr. Kang? The Council has a right to see the report.”

Yeosang tightened his jaw, feeling the tension ripple through his muscles as the Council’s insistence caught him off guard. His irritation simmered just beneath the surface, barely contained.

“Of course, I will ensure the report is made available,” he said smoothly, his voice dripping with false sincerity, masking the venom beneath. “I just need a little more time to… finalize some details.”

“Finalize what details? Are you implying that this report today was not conclusive?” Lord Kim’s voice was cold and unyielding, each word a deliberate challenge.

Yeosang’s eyes flashed with annoyance, but he quickly masked it with a calm facade. “I assure you, Lord Kim, the report is thorough. However, there are always minor adjustments to be made for clarity.”

Kim Sangjoong’s gaze hardened, his suspicion evident. “Minor adjustments? Or are you buying time to cover up discrepancies, Dr. Kang?”

“That’s enough,” Chairman Jang’s voice concluded, the tone unmistakable, leaving no room for argument. “Dr. Kang, you have until the end of the day to produce copies of the report to the Council.”

Yeosang felt a surge of anger but forced a smile. “I understand your concern, Lord Kim. Rest assured, the report will be delivered by the end of the day, as requested.” His tone was polite, but the underlying threat was present.

The room remained tense, the air thick with unspoken conflict. Yeosang knew he had to tread carefully, but he relished the challenge.

Seonghwa strode through the hallways of the Park estate, his footsteps echoing off the marble floors as he awaited the results of Ajax’s necropsy from Kim Sangjoong. The grandeur of the estate, with its high ceilings and ornate decorations, did little to calm his racing thoughts.

“Ms. Jang,” he called out, his voice calm yet authoritative. His mother’s assistant looked up from her desk, immediately recognizing him. She adjusted her glasses and gave him a polite nod.

“Yes, your grace?” she asked, her tone respectful but familiar.

“I need a list of all the attendees from the Inferno Gala,” he requested, his eyes scanning the room. “Sponsors, stakeholders, riders—everything.”

Ms. Jang nodded and quickly began typing on her laptop. The soft clacking of keys filled the room as Seonghwa paced back and forth, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts. He glanced at the clock on the wall, each tick amplifying his impatience.

After a few moments, Ms. Jang handed him a sleek tablet. “Here it is, your grace,” she said. “The complete list.”

Seonghwa took the tablet and offered her a small smile in thanks. As he walked back to his quarters, he scanned the names, noting familiar faces and new ones, the organizations they represented, and the teams they raced for. Each name brought back memories of conversations, deals, and promises made. He needed to ensure that every attendee was accounted for and that no detail was overlooked.

“Treasure Holdings, Blue Bird Airways, Answer Tech,” Seonghwa muttered to himself, activating the hologram interface. These were big name sponsors in dragon racing and nothing seemed out of the ordinary. 

He swiped to the next category of Aurora’s political elite, scanning the list with a practiced eye. Names like Lady Baek and Lord Yoon stood out, both well-known figures in the political landscape. As he continued down the list, he reached members of the Council and their guests. Lord Hong Bum Soo and Lady Hong Sara, Chairman Jang Ki Young, Lord Kim Sangjoong and Lady Kim Miyeon–

She was never one to miss an event, especially one of this magnitude. He quickly re-scanned the rest of the list, hoping it was a mistake, but her name was nowhere to be found. Had she been deliberately excluded?

Lady Lee’s absence was not just unusual—it was a glaring anomaly. Taking out his phone, he dialed Kim Sangjoong, hoping for news of the necropsy report. The phone rang a few times before Lord Kim answered. “Seonghwa, what’s the matter?”

“I have news for you, should you have any to share with me,” Seonghwa said, his tone measured.

The elder chuckled softly, shaking his head. “I regret to inform you that the report returned without any anomalies. It was conclusive, indicating that the dragon is of standard lineage.”

“That can’t be,” Seonghwa said, his voice laced with disbelief. “Y/N showed me Ajax’s anatomy in video footage a few months ago. She noted that his angulation was much more moderate than a Longhorn’s, and his wings were longer. He also exhibited an unusual level of speed and agility.”

The elder’s eyes widened slightly. “That does sound…unnatural for the breed…” He paused, his gaze drifting out the large, arched window of his office. He noticed Lady Lee in conversation with a young lab assistant, her animated gestures contrasting with the assistant’s calm demeanor.

“Your grace?” Seonghwa’s voice brought him back to the present.

“Yes, apologies. Please continue.”

“I wanted to let you know that I pulled the guest list from the gala and noticed that Lady Lee was missing.”

The elder’s brow furrowed in concern. “That’s certainly odd. She never turns down an opportunity for an event given her rather…vainglorious nature. Her absence is highly unusual.” Lord Kim glanced at the ornate clock on the wall, noting the late hour. If he were to leave now, it would be an opportunity to learn more about Lady Lee’s next moves.

“It seems Lady Lee is just about to leave for the day,” Lord Kim informed the younger. “Thank you for the information, Seonghwa.” He quickly pocketed his phone and hurried towards the exit, his mind racing with possibilities. The corridors of the capitol building were beginning to empty as the day drew to a close, and he needed to act fast.

The soft murmur of conversations and the shuffle of footsteps filled the air, creating a symphony of end-of-day activity. The tension in the air was palpable, each step Lord Kim took echoing his urgency.

“Ah, Lady Lee! Will you be attending General Choi’s birthday celebration?” he called out, his voice cutting through the ambient noise, and scaring the lab assistant. The young man, not much older than 20, bowed before taking his leave. 

Lady Lee paled, her confident demeanor faltering for a moment. “O-Oh? Is that this weekend?” she stammered, her eyes darting around as if searching for an escape. She forced a smile, though it didn’t reach her eyes.

“I must have overlooked it. I’ve been quite busy with…personal matters,” Lady Lee said, her voice wavering slightly.

“Personal matters?” Lord Kim pressed, his curiosity piqued. “Well, I hope everything is alright.”

She hesitated, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her sleeve. “Yes, well, it’s nothing that concerns the council.”

Lord Kim nodded slowly, not entirely convinced. “I see. Well, I do hope you’ll make it to the celebration. Miyeon and I look forward to seeing you.”

“Thank you, Lord Kim. I appreciate your concern,” she replied, her voice steadying. 

As Lady Lee turned to leave, Lord Kim watched her closely. There was something off about her behavior, something that didn’t sit right with him. Her usually confident demeanor seemed strained, and her eyes darted around nervously. His mind raced with questions, each one more urgent than the last. What was she hiding? And why did it feel like time was running out?

[NEW MESSAGE]

[Lord Cash Money]: Results are in 

[Lord Cash Money]: Nothing out of standard

You let out a huff as you read Seonghwa’s message and sent back a quick ‘Thanks’. Dismounting Cirrus, you felt the cool leather of the saddle beneath your hands, but an uneasy feeling settled in your chest. You knew Ajax was definitely not half Fury, but something else entirely. The thought sent a chill down your spine at the implications of what his other half might be.

The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the manor as you helped Sohee down from the saddle. You slung her backpack over your shoulder, the weight a familiar comfort, and dialed the only person you knew you could vent to besides your grandmother and sister.

“I hate the government,” you said, balancing your phone between your shoulder and ear while you toed off your shoes and hung up your niece’s backpack. The scent of oil pastels and dragon scales lingered in the air.

“Who doesn’t?” Jongho’s voice came through the line, gruff yet playful. You could almost picture his mischievous grin. What’s going on?” he asked, his tone shifting to one of curiosity and concern.

Choi Jongho was the oldest son of the Dune Choi Family and cousin to the Auroran Choi Family. Although they were considered one of Dune’s noble houses, your families had been breeding partners for as long as your grandmother could remember.

Jongho had always been like a little brother to you, his presence a constant in your life—a mix of annoyance and comfort that only a true sibling could provide. His sharp wit and the shared history between your families created a connection that was unbreakable, no matter how much he might drive you crazy at times.

“The test results came back conclusive. There’s nothing out of the ordinary with Ajax’s lineage.”

“Bullshit,” Jongho snapped, pacing his room. “I watched the footage you sent me, read through the pedigree, and everything seemed off. Someone’s tampering with the results.”

You nodded, frustration evident. “Exactly. I’m thinking there has to be something more nefarious in his lineage. Ajax has always been promoted as a hybrid between a Fury and a Longhorn, but I don’t think a Fury fits the bill. It has to be a breed that’s aerodynamic.”

Jongho furrowed his brow. “Aerodynamic, huh? That narrows it down a bit. Maybe something with a sleeker build? A Wyrm variant? Or a Razorback?”

You snickered. “Hongjoong is going to have your head if he hears that. But even those breeds don’t seem quite right. There has to be one that’s also intelligent. Ajax was somehow able to learn Cirrus’ maneuvers, and I know for a fact Mingi couldn’t have taught him that flip.”

Jongho sighed, massaging his brow. “I’ve always told you I didn’t like him nor his ugly dragon. I plan to set up shop in my uncle’s library and we can dig deeper when I’m in town. You’re coming to his celebration, right?”

You groaned, pulling your pillow to your chest. “Do I have a choice?”

“If you don’t, I’ll tell everyone you think San is handsome.”

Rolling your eyes, you retorted, “San is handsome. That doesn’t work on me anymore.”

Jongho smirked, a mischievous glint in his eye. “Fine, then I’ll tell everyone about the time you fell into the fountain trying to impress him.”

You gasped, sitting up abruptly. “Choi Jongho, you wouldn’t dare!”

The grand hall of the Choi Estate was a sight to behold, a testament to the family’s wealth and status. The walls were adorned with intricate tapestries depicting the family’s storied history, their vibrant colors and detailed embroidery telling tales of valor and honor. The atmosphere was one of celebration and reverence, as friends and family gathered to honor the Choi patriarch on his special day.

San’s father, the elder General Choi, greeted guests up and down the hall, offering glass after glass of champagne and other spirits. His laughter boomed through the room, a testament to his larger-than-life personality. You managed to dodge him, offering your grandmother as a sacrificial lamb as you slipped away, her knowing smile indicating she was more than willing to take one for the team.

You weaved through the crowd, feeling a bit out of place in your simple but elegant strapless black gown. Its understated design contrasted with the more extravagant attire around you, yet the gown’s classic cut and the way it hugged your figure made you feel confident and poised.

“Are you here for a funeral or a celebration?” a familiar voice quipped behind you.

You whipped around to find San, clad in a perfectly tailored suit that accentuated his broad shoulders and imposing presence. The corners of his mouth twitched into a smirk as he took in your startled reaction.

“Very funny,” you replied, rolling your eyes but unable to suppress a smile. “I was just trying to avoid your father’s relentless hospitality.”

San chuckled, his laughter a deep, comforting sound. “He does have a way of overwhelming people with his enthusiasm,” he admitted, glancing over at his father, who was now engaged in a hearty conversation with a group of military officials. “Looking for someone?”

“It's no one important,” you murmured, your eyes drifting away from the young General. You scanned the crowd, your heart pounding as you searched for a certain someone. Striking, charming, refined, and utterly infuriating, with an undeniable pull—a magnetic attraction you couldn’t ignore.

“Am I not important to you?” San tilted his head, giving you a sly smile.

“You are, but you're not who I'm looking for,” you scoffed, hitting his arm playfully. 

San brought his hand to his chest, feigning a dramatic gasp. “And here I thought I was unforgettable.”

“You are, just not in the way you think.”

“Ah, so there is someone else! Now I’m intrigued.”

As Seonghwa watched you and San together, a mix of emotions flooded his mind. On one hand, he was happy to see you enjoying yourself, but on the other, he couldn't shake off the feeling of jealousy that consumed him. He knew it was irrational and unfair, but the sight of you with someone else rattled him in ways he didn't understand. 

With determination in his step, he approached you, his presence catching you off guard as his hand wrapped around your waist resting on the small of your back. The warmth of his touch sent a shiver coursing down your spine.

“General,” Seonghwa greeted San with a nod, his voice steady despite the tempest raging within. His eyes, however, flashed with a brief, intense possessiveness, a silent claim that spoke volumes.

“Lord Park,” San replied, his gaze sharp with curiosity and a hint of amusement, completely oblivious to Seonghwa’s hostility.

Seonghwa’s eyes narrowed slightly as he watched San’s lingering gaze. Leaning in closer, he brushed against your ear as he whispered, never breaking eye contact with San. “Dance with me?” His voice was soft, yet it carried an undeniable command.

San, gave you a knowing look and you rolled your eyes in response, a faint smile touching your lips as you took Seonghwa's hand.  The soft strains of the music enveloped you both, creating an intimate atmosphere. Seonghwa’s grip on your waist tightened slightly, as if to remind you—and San—of his presence while guiding you with a natural grace. Your free hand found its way to his shoulder, while his other hand held yours, fingers entwined.

“Have I ever mentioned how impulsive you are?” you teased softly, toying with the lapel of his jacket. The smooth fabric felt like a stark contrast to the tension hanging in the air.

“Maybe,” he replied, a smile playing on his lips. His eyes, however, were serious, as if he was weighing his next words carefully. “There’s something I forgot to mention the other day.” 

“Hm?” you responded, curiosity piqued, your eyes meeting his with a questioning look.

“Lady Lee was absent on the night of the gala.” Your furrowed your brows at Seonghwa’s revelation. “What do you mean?”

“I pulled the guest list of every single attendee from that night, and she was the only Council member missing from the list. I asked Lord Kim about it, and he thought it was odd as well,” Seonghwa explained, his tone serious, eyes dark with concern. The weight of his words settled heavily between you.

“You think she’s connected?” you asked, your mind racing with possibilities, the weight of the situation pressing down on you. 

“I didn’t get a chance to ask, he hung up on me while trying to flag her down,” Seonghwa pouted slightly. No one hangs up on Park Seonghwa, not even his mentor. You couldn’t help but giggle at the thought of Hongjoong’s father abruptly ending the call with Seonghwa, his slack jawed expression vivid in your mind. His flair for dramatics always added a touch of humor to your interactions, making him all the more endearing.

“I suppose you should follow up with him. Fortunately for me, I’ll be enjoying the festivities tonight,” you sighed. “San owes me a drink after I bet that Jongho wouldn’t last an hour without trying to sell someone a dragon.”

Seonghwa’s expression shifted, a hint of disapproval in his eyes. “You and Choi San?” he remarked, his voice carrying a slight bitterness. You nodded, “I’ve known him since we were kids, he’s a packaged deal with Jongho. You know, with the whole breeding House partnership thing.”

“I suppose he possesses a certain charm, but his intellect leaves much to be desired.”

“Don’t be rude! San is my friend,” you retorted, a sharp edge to your laughter. “And if not San, who, pray tell, would you have me spend my time with, Lord Park?”

Seonghwa’s lips curved into a half-smile, mischief glinting in his eyes. “Someone who can match your wit,” he proposed, his fingers drawing patterns on your spine.

“Someone like…you?” you challenged, your grin daring him to deny it. His laughter was low and velvety, a sound that seemed to wrap around you like a cool embrace. He leaned in closer, his breath ghosting over your skin as he brushed his lips against your temple. 

“Perhaps,” Seonghwa murmured, his voice a tantalizing whisper. “Guess you’ll have to find out.”

The music slowly faded, signaling the end of the dance and the appearance of Song Tae Gyu. The room fell silent as the Song patriarch entered, the grand hall, once filled with lively chatter and laughter, now buzzed with hushed whispers. Snippets of conversation about “Mingi,” “the Council,” and “unstable dragon” floated through the air like a dark cloud.

“Song Tae Gyu has some nerve showing up after what his son pulled,” Jongho sneered, his gaze fixed on Mingi’s father with a stone-cold expression as he approached you and Seonghwa on the dance floor. Ever the purist, Jongho’s disdain was palpable. You could almost feel the weight of his contempt for the way the Songs had let their son disgrace their house and the sanctity of dragon racing.

“He’s simply carrying out his duties to my father,” San reminded his cousin, his voice composed despite the discomfort evident in his body language. He glanced around the room, noting the wary eyes and cautious glances directed at Song Tae Gyu. “I know the Songs feel terrible about the incident, but as a vassal House, they have their obligations.”

San’s words were measured, but you could sense the underlying tension. The incident with Mingi had cast a momentary shadow over the evening, and the presence of Song Tae Gyu only served to deepen the unease. 

“Ah, Tae Gyu! So glad you could make it!” the elder General Choi exclaimed, clapping a hand on the man’s shoulder. “I was just telling everyone about the time you and I got lost in the ravine and had to spend the night in a cave. Remember that?”

The room erupted in laughter as Lord Choi recounted the tale with exaggerated gestures, painting a vivid picture of their misadventure. Even Song Tae Gyu managed a small, grateful smile, the worry lines on his face softening.

Jongho rolled his eyes but couldn’t suppress the small grin tugging at his lips. He took a sip from his glass, the warm liquid sliding down his throat as he mulled over his father's words. "Your father always knows how to lighten the mood," he muttered to San before turning to face you, swirling his empty glass in a playful gesture.

“So,” he drawls, “Are you still F/N L/N or Park F/N–” Both you and Seonghwa exchange flustered glances, your denials overlapping.

“There’s nothing between us!” Your voice cracked slightly, betraying your nerves.

“Absolutely nothing!” Seonghwa added, his voice a pitch higher than usual, nodding vigorously. His cheeks are flushed, and he looks like he might combust from the sheer embarrassment.

“Oh, come on,” Jongho teased, “You two are practically glowing,” He winks, knocking back the rest of his drink with a satisfied smirk. You groaned, burying your face in your hands, while Seonghwa prayed for the ground to open and swallow him whole. Jongho’s laughter echoed around the room, clearly enjoying every moment of your shared embarrassment. “I’ll be around tomorrow if you want to dig through the records. I’m sure we’ll find something on that wannabe Longhorn.”

“What did you say?”

“Nothing, just bullshitting.”

“No! About the wannabe part.”

The mention of the word "wannabe" caught your attention like a firework exploding in your mind. You could feel your heart racing as you frantically searched your knowledge for any clues about this breed.

Wannabe… Imitation… Copy… The word echoed in your mind, reverberating with increasing intensity. Your breath caught in your throat, and your heart began to race as you frantically sifted through your mental catalog of dragon breeds and their levels of intelligence.

Dreamwood Ridgeback, biddable with high emotional intellect… Cascade Wyvern, alert and confident… Star Fury, fiercely intelligent but too rare… Nettled…

A sudden realization hit you like a bolt of lightning. You turned sharply to face San, your eyes widening with urgency and determination. "Do you have a copy of a breed encyclopedia?" You could almost feel the gears turning in your head, piecing together the clues and making connections. It was all starting to make sense now.

San looked momentarily puzzled, his brow furrowing as he tried to process your sudden question. Before he could respond, Jongho stepped in with a confident grin. “Of course they do, I left one here to read during summers,” he said, patting San’s shoulder in a playful yet slightly condescending manner, acknowledging his older cousin’s limited mental acuity.

“Longhorns aren’t meant to be particularly intelligent,” you began, your voice steady but urgent. “But if Ajax was able to learn Cirrus’ maneuvers, there could only be one breed that matches the description.”

The four of you exchanged tense looks, the weight of the mystery pressing down on you. Without another word, you all turned and rushed out of the hall, each step bringing you closer to uncovering the truth.

Jongho traipsed around the library, pulling out books and peeking through every nook and cranny, his determination to locate the beloved encyclopedia was almost comical. Meanwhile, you took your time, your fingers trailing over the spines of novels that drew your interest—classic literature rich with love and loss and fantasies brimming with epic adventures of dragon riders from the past.

Seonghwa matched your stride on the opposite side of the bookshelf as you wandered through the maze of books, the soft patter of your footsteps echoing off the high, vaulted ceilings. He glanced at the spines of the books you passed, his fingers lightly brushing against the aged covers, intrigued by the types of stories that captured your attention.  

“A little help here,” Jongho grumbled from a nearby aisle, hopping up to get a better look at the upper shelves. You pouted, reluctantly placing the book you had been holding back on the shelf as you moved to assist him. Dust puffed out as you rummaged through the shelves, swatting away at the air as the particles ticked your throat. 

“When was the last time they dusted the shelves?” you coughed, moving to a particularly shadowed section of the library, where the books seemed older, their covers cracked and worn with age. “What does it look like?”

“The title is on the spine, Y/N,” Jongho replied, his voice echoing softly in the vast, silent room.“It must be here somewhere,” he muttered to himself, peering at the book spines with a frustrated expression. 

Taking off your heels and hoisting the skirt of your gown, you climbed onto a nearby ladder, the dim light making it difficult to read the titles, but you persisted. Finally, your eyes fell on a slightly worn book with the words “Encyclopedia” embossed on the spine in gold leaf, barely visible through the grime. “Here it is!” you exclaimed, carefully pulling the book from its resting place.

As you began your descent, you focused solely on your footing, ensuring each step was steady and secure. Finally, your feet touched the ground, and Seonghwa and San rushed over, Seonghwa reaching out to steady you, his hand warm and reassuring on your arm.

Seonghwa exhaled deeply, relief evident in his eyes. “I’m glad you made it down safely.”

"Would you have caught me if I fell?" You met his gaze with a mischievous grin. 

“Do you want to test that theory?”

San cleared his throat awkwardly as Jongho strolled over, visibly cringing at your banter with Seonghwa. His eyes flicked to the book clutched to your chest, its yellowed pages and intricately embossed gold cover hinting at its long history. “That’s the one,” he confirmed, reaching out momentarily to scold you for holding the book so carelessly. 

“Let’s see where you’re hiding, mimic,” you muttered to yourself as you wandered off, leafing through the contents of the heavy book without much care. The weight of the tome made your arms ache slightly, and the pages, thick and slightly brittle with age, rustled softly as you flipped through them. Jongho quickly trailed behind you, his expression turning serious. 

“Don’t turn the pages so quickly!” he warned. “You’re going to damage them!”

You sank into one of the rarely used loveseats, your fingers trembled slightly as you flipped through the pages, each one filled with intricate illustrations and detailed descriptions of various dragon breeds. A sense of awe washed over you as you read through breeds, old and new—each more fascinating than the last. As you continued, your anticipation grew, until finally, your eyes landed on the page you were searching for. 

You studied the avian-looking dragon. Its sleek, streamlined body was adorned with grotesque feathers hanging from its gangly, mismatched wings. The large, bug-like eyes bulged with an eerie intelligence, giving the dragon an almost alien appearance. They stared back at you with a knowing, unsettling awareness. Its sharp, curved beak-like snout added to its avian resemblance, but instead of elegance, it exuded menace and predatory intent, as if ready to strike at any moment.

“Found you,” you whispered, a triumphant smile spreading across your face. Your mind raced with the implications of this discovery, the pieces of the puzzle finally coming together. You shut the book with a deep, resonant thud that echoed softly in the space and leaned your head back against the cushions. Thoughts of your job at the Institute surfaced; the resources and access you had there could be invaluable for digging deeper into the investigation and revealing the truth about Ajax and even Lady Lee.

Your eyes grew heavy as the day’s events blurred together, allowing sleep to slowly overtake you. Your mind wandered to the grand hall, where you danced with Seonghwa. The memory of his warm hand in yours, the intensity of his gaze making your heart race, filled your thoughts. The closeness of his body, the heat radiating between you, and the subtle, teasing brush of his lips near your ear as he whispered something only you could hear, left you wanting more.

But then, the unsettling gaze of the Kuku intruded, shattering the fragile bubble of your reverie. The contrast between the warmth of Seonghwa’s embrace and the cold, piercing stare of the Kuku was stark, leaving you with a lingering sense of unease.

In your peaceful state, the hushed sound of footsteps and rustling fabric barely registered in your mind. An intoxicating and alluring scent filled your senses, drawing you back to consciousness as a jacket was draped over your form with care. Its gentle warmth offered relief against the icy fingers tucking a stray lock of hair behind your ear. The touch was tender, almost reverent, as if they were afraid to wake you but couldn’t resist the urge to be near.

The world seemed to hold its breath, waiting for what would come next as your eyes fluttered open, the only source of light being the silvery beams of moonlight filling the library. You blink a few times, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep, and then you realize something: your head is resting on someone’s shoulder.

Your heart skips a beat as you recognize the familiar scent. Seonghwa. You must have dozed off after reading, and now here you are, nestled against him, his jacket covering your form. The fabric is soft and comforting, and you instinctively nuzzle into it, savoring the warmth and the faint scent of him that lingers on it.

You lift your head slowly, trying not to disturb him. His face, peaceful and relaxed, comes into view. He stirs slightly, his half-lidded eyes meeting yours as he turns to face you.

“Did ya sleep well?” he murmured, voice thick with drowsiness. Gods, you wanted to do something to that beautiful face of his.

“Didn’t mean to use your shoulder as a pillow.”

“S’alright,” he stretches, offering you a lazy smile. “Best sleep I’ve gotten in a while.”

“No kidding,” you chuckled, “Still I should be careful. Don’t want to cause a scandal by falling asleep in public places.”

“Whatever do you mean, Park Seonghwa’s Mystery Woman?”

You laugh softly, recalling the headlines that painted you as a fleeting chapter in his life. “I’m not interested in becoming a tabloid sensation.”

Seonghwa nodded, feeling a little guilty of what he put you through during the early days of your coaching. A silence falls between you, the intimacy of the conversation giving way to a more reflective mood. You glance down at the encyclopedia resting on the table, your thoughts shifting.

“I’m…thinking of going back to the Institute,” you finally say. “I think I’ve figured out Ajax’s missing half but I don’t think our case against the necropsy will be very effective if I don’t have access to all the necessary resources.” 

Seonghwa’s expression softens as he listens, his eyes filled with understanding and support. He leans in slightly, his gaze reassuring. “I get it,” he says gently, his voice steady. 

“You do?” you ask, surprised, your eyebrows raising slightly.

He nods, a small, reassuring smile playing on his lips. “This whole situation has been dragging on for too long, even if what we’re doing is…illegal. I’m tired of the bureaucracy and need to go back to doing what I do best.” 

You felt a sense of relief wash over you, grateful for his understanding and support. You leaned back, feeling the tension in your shoulders ease. After a few moments, you lifted your head slightly and looked at him.

“Do you want to stay a little longer?” you asked softly, your voice barely above a whisper.

Seonghwa didn’t say a word. Instead, he shifted slightly, making more room for you to lean back against him. You settled in, your head resting on his shoulder once more, and closed your eyes, feeling the steady rise and fall of his breathing.

<< viii | twilight | x >>

taglist: @litolmochi @syubseokie @park-simphwa @szakias

jongsan and reader witnessing unsolicited 18+ hwa

away with the wind | twilight

Pairing: dragonrider!Seonghwa x ex-dragonrider!Reader AU: dragon rider au | strangers -> lovers Summary: a spinal injury forces you to retire from dragon racing, and with it, the end of your engagement to Song Mingi. Park Seonghwa, a rising star in the world of dragon racing and heir to the prestigious House Park, seeks a new dragon after an unfortunate accident on the skyway. As the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Word Count: 6.8K (sorry I got carried away) Warnings: not proofread, seonghwa doing wrongs, angst

a/n: first version of chapter ix! i was also watching derry girls while writing this so listen to 'independent love song' by scarlet if you wanna get the feel for the last scene of this chapter

Fic Masterlist

The grand chamber was dimly lit, the only sources of light being the flickering holographic displays and the soft glow of the council members’ robes. The air was thick with anticipation as the council awaited the presentation.

“Ready whenever you are, Dr. Kang,” Lord Hong announced, his voice resonating through the chamber.

Yeosang, standing beside the holographic projector, bowed respectfully. He took a moment to adjust the hologram, ensuring every detail of Ajax’s anatomy was perfectly visible. The room fell silent as the intricate projection came to life, displaying the necropsy report for Subject 4201.

“Necropsy report for Subject 4201. Subject is a male, approximately 11 years old, measuring 20 feet in height with a wingspan of 40 feet. Initial examination reveals extensive claw marks along the dorsal scales, likely from recent combat.”

Yeosang zoomed in on the damage inflicted by Starshine during the Inferno Cup. Lady Lee brought her hand to her mouth in feigned horror, prompting Yeosang to roll his eyes at her theatrics. He then brought up the next holographic display.

Swiping over to the dragon’s head, Yeosang brought forward the manifestation of Ajax’s brain, enhancing the size of the organ for the Council’s scrutiny. 

“The brain shows signs of abnormal growth in the amygdala, the region associated with aggression and fear responses. This hypertrophy suggests heightened aggression and unstable behavior. Further examination of the neural pathways reveals signs of synaptic plasticity, which may indicate a history of adaptive responses to high-stress environments. This could result in unpredictable and erratic behavior patterns.”

“Is this a common trait in Longhorns, Dr. Kang?” Lord Kim interjected.

Yeosang maintained his composed demeanor, though he felt slightly irritated at Lord Kim’s prodding. Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, he ensured his tone remained respectful yet authoritative. 

“While hypertrophy in the amygdala is not uncommon in Longhorns, the extent of the growth observed here is unusual,” he explained, his voice steady. “Further studies are necessary to determine if this is an isolated case or indicative of a broader trend within the species.”

Lord Kim nodded, the soft rustle of his robes barely audible as he leaned back in his chair. Yeosang then moved on to the next hologram, which flickered to life, casting a light that manifested into Ajax above their heads.

“In summary, subject 4201 exhibits significant physiological power and complexity,” Yeosang began, his voice steady and clear. The hologram displayed intricate details of the dragon’s anatomy, each scale and muscle rendered with precision. “I’ve concluded that the observed unpredictable behavior indicates potential neurological instability. End of report.”

Chairman Jang’s eyes narrowed as he leaned forward, the light catching the sharp angles of his face. “And the report of parentage?” he asked.

Yeosang adjusted the hologram, bringing up a new set of data. “The DNA test results showed no significant anomalies, your grace. The dragon’s genetic makeup is consistent with what we have documented in our archives. There are no indications of any unusual lineage or mutations.”

Lord Kim studied him for a moment, his gaze penetrating. “Are you certain, Dr. Kang? This information is crucial to understanding where this Longhorn may have originated from.”

Yeosang nodded, maintaining his calm facade. “Yes, your grace. I am certain. The DNA results confirm that this dragon is of standard lineage.”

“Lord Kim, we have all the information we need. Continuing this investigation is a waste of our resources and time,” Lady Lee snapped, her voice sharp and echoing slightly in the grand council room.

“We need to be thorough,” Lord Kim insisted, his tone unwavering. The flickering light from the hologram cast shadows across his stern face, highlighting the furrow in his brow.

“The dragon’s physiology and neurological state are well-documented. We have other priorities that demand our attention,” she countered, her words heavy with urgency.

Lord Hong nodded in agreement, the soft rustle of his robes breaking the silence. “Lady Lee is right. We are diverting valuable time and effort. This report should be concluded.” His voice was measured, a stark contrast to the rising tension between his colleagues.

“If Dr. Kang has reported no abnormalities in his findings, then we must move on to the next agenda item,” Chairman Jang interjected with finality. “Thank you for your time, Dr. Kang.”

The room fell silent, the air thick with unresolved conflict. Yeosang remained silent, grateful that the focus had shifted away from his lie, but acutely aware of the brewing storm between the Council members.

“Would it be possible for the copies of the report to be made available, Dr. Kang?” Lord Kim interjected, his eyes boring into Yeosang, challenging him to reveal the truth.

Yeosang hesitated, his fingers trembling slightly as he adjusted his glasses. “The report is rather unremarkable, your grace,” he replied coldly, staring straight at the elder.

Lord Hong’s eyes narrowed. “Is there a problem, Dr. Kang? The Council has a right to see the report.”

Yeosang tightened his jaw, feeling the tension ripple through his muscles as the Council’s insistence caught him off guard. His irritation simmered just beneath the surface, barely contained.

“Of course, I will ensure the report is made available,” he said smoothly, his voice dripping with false sincerity, masking the venom beneath. “I just need a little more time to… finalize some details.”

“Finalize what details? Are you implying that this report today was not conclusive?” Lord Kim’s voice was cold and unyielding, each word a deliberate challenge.

Yeosang’s eyes flashed with annoyance, but he quickly masked it with a calm facade. “I assure you, Lord Kim, the report is thorough. However, there are always minor adjustments to be made for clarity.”

Kim Sangjoong’s gaze hardened, his suspicion evident. “Minor adjustments? Or are you buying time to cover up discrepancies, Dr. Kang?”

“That’s enough,” Chairman Jang’s voice concluded, the tone unmistakable, leaving no room for argument. “Dr. Kang, you have until the end of the day to produce copies of the report to the Council.”

Yeosang felt a surge of anger but forced a smile. “I understand your concern, Lord Kim. Rest assured, the report will be delivered by the end of the day, as requested.” His tone was polite, but the underlying threat was present.

The room remained tense, the air thick with unspoken conflict. Yeosang knew he had to tread carefully, but he relished the challenge.

Seonghwa strode through the hallways of the Park estate, his footsteps echoing off the marble floors as he awaited the results of Ajax’s necropsy from Kim Sangjoong. The grandeur of the estate, with its high ceilings and ornate decorations, did little to calm his racing thoughts.

“Ms. Jang,” he called out, his voice calm yet authoritative. His mother’s assistant looked up from her desk, immediately recognizing him. She adjusted her glasses and gave him a polite nod.

“Yes, your grace?” she asked, her tone respectful but familiar.

“I need a list of all the attendees from the Inferno Gala,” he requested, his eyes scanning the room. “Sponsors, stakeholders, riders—everything.”

Ms. Jang nodded and quickly began typing on her laptop. The soft clacking of keys filled the room as Seonghwa paced back and forth, his mind a whirlwind of thoughts. He glanced at the clock on the wall, each tick amplifying his impatience.

After a few moments, Ms. Jang handed him a sleek tablet. “Here it is, your grace,” she said. “The complete list.”

Seonghwa took the tablet and offered her a small smile in thanks. As he walked back to his quarters, he scanned the names, noting familiar faces and new ones, the organizations they represented, and the teams they raced for. Each name brought back memories of conversations, deals, and promises made. He needed to ensure that every attendee was accounted for and that no detail was overlooked.

“Treasure Holdings, Blue Bird Airways, Answer Tech,” Seonghwa muttered to himself, activating the hologram interface. These were big name sponsors in dragon racing and nothing seemed out of the ordinary. 

He swiped to the next category of Aurora’s political elite, scanning the list with a practiced eye. Names like Lady Baek and Lord Yoon stood out, both well-known figures in the political landscape. As he continued down the list, he reached members of the Council and their guests. Lord Hong Bum Soo and Lady Hong Sara, Chairman Jang Ki Young, Lord Kim Sangjoong and Lady Kim Miyeon–

She was never one to miss an event, especially one of this magnitude. He quickly re-scanned the rest of the list, hoping it was a mistake, but her name was nowhere to be found. Had she been deliberately excluded?

Lady Lee’s absence was not just unusual—it was a glaring anomaly. Taking out his phone, he dialed Kim Sangjoong, hoping for news of the necropsy report. The phone rang a few times before Lord Kim answered. “Seonghwa, what’s the matter?”

“I have news for you, should you have any to share with me,” Seonghwa said, his tone measured.

The elder chuckled softly, shaking his head. “I regret to inform you that the report returned without any anomalies. It was conclusive, indicating that the dragon is of standard lineage.”

“That can’t be,” Seonghwa said, his voice laced with disbelief. “Y/N showed me Ajax’s anatomy in video footage a few months ago. She noted that his angulation was much more moderate than a Longhorn’s, and his wings were longer. He also exhibited an unusual level of speed and agility.”

The elder’s eyes widened slightly. “That does sound…unnatural for the breed…” He paused, his gaze drifting out the large, arched window of his office. He noticed Lady Lee in conversation with a young lab assistant, her animated gestures contrasting with the assistant’s calm demeanor.

“Your grace?” Seonghwa’s voice brought him back to the present.

“Yes, apologies. Please continue.”

“I wanted to let you know that I pulled the guest list from the gala and noticed that Lady Lee was missing.”

The elder’s brow furrowed in concern. “That’s certainly odd. She never turns down an opportunity for an event given her rather…vainglorious nature. Her absence is highly unusual.” Lord Kim glanced at the ornate clock on the wall, noting the late hour. If he were to leave now, it would be an opportunity to learn more about Lady Lee’s next moves.

“It seems Lady Lee is just about to leave for the day,” Lord Kim informed the younger. “Thank you for the information, Seonghwa.” He quickly pocketed his phone and hurried towards the exit, his mind racing with possibilities. The corridors of the capitol building were beginning to empty as the day drew to a close, and he needed to act fast.

The soft murmur of conversations and the shuffle of footsteps filled the air, creating a symphony of end-of-day activity. The tension in the air was palpable, each step Lord Kim took echoing his urgency.

“Ah, Lady Lee! Will you be attending General Choi’s birthday celebration?” he called out, his voice cutting through the ambient noise, and scaring the lab assistant. The young man, not much older than 20, bowed before taking his leave. 

Lady Lee paled, her confident demeanor faltering for a moment. “O-Oh? Is that this weekend?” she stammered, her eyes darting around as if searching for an escape. She forced a smile, though it didn’t reach her eyes.

“I must have overlooked it. I’ve been quite busy with…personal matters,” Lady Lee said, her voice wavering slightly.

“Personal matters?” Lord Kim pressed, his curiosity piqued. “Well, I hope everything is alright.”

She hesitated, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her sleeve. “Yes, well, it’s nothing that concerns the council.”

Lord Kim nodded slowly, not entirely convinced. “I see. Well, I do hope you’ll make it to the celebration. Miyeon and I look forward to seeing you.”

“Thank you, Lord Kim. I appreciate your concern,” she replied, her voice steadying. 

As Lady Lee turned to leave, Lord Kim watched her closely. There was something off about her behavior, something that didn’t sit right with him. Her usually confident demeanor seemed strained, and her eyes darted around nervously. His mind raced with questions, each one more urgent than the last. What was she hiding? And why did it feel like time was running out?

[NEW MESSAGE]

[Lord Cash Money]: Results are in 

[Lord Cash Money]: Nothing out of standard

You let out a huff as you read Seonghwa’s message and sent back a quick ‘Thanks’. Dismounting Cirrus, you felt the cool leather of the saddle beneath your hands, but an uneasy feeling settled in your chest. You knew Ajax was definitely not half Fury, but something else entirely. The thought sent a chill down your spine at the implications of what his other half might be.

The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the manor as you helped Sohee down from the saddle. You slung her backpack over your shoulder, the weight a familiar comfort, and dialed the only person you knew you could vent to besides your grandmother and sister.

“I hate the government,” you said, balancing your phone between your shoulder and ear while you toed off your shoes and hung up your niece’s backpack. The scent of oil pastels and dragon scales lingered in the air.

“Who doesn’t?” Jongho’s voice came through the line, gruff yet playful. You could almost picture his mischievous grin. What’s going on?” he asked, his tone shifting to one of curiosity and concern.

Choi Jongho was the oldest son of the Dune Choi Family and cousin to the Auroran Choi Family. Although they were considered one of Dune’s noble houses, your families had been breeding partners for as long as your grandmother could remember.

Jongho had always been like a little brother to you, his presence a constant in your life—a mix of annoyance and comfort that only a true sibling could provide. His sharp wit and the shared history between your families created a connection that was unbreakable, no matter how much he might drive you crazy at times.

“The test results came back conclusive. There’s nothing out of the ordinary with Ajax’s lineage.”

“Bullshit,” Jongho snapped, pacing his room. “I watched the footage you sent me, read through the pedigree, and everything seemed off. Someone’s tampering with the results.”

You nodded, frustration evident. “Exactly. I’m thinking there has to be something more nefarious in his lineage. Ajax has always been promoted as a hybrid between a Fury and a Longhorn, but I don’t think a Fury fits the bill. It has to be a breed that’s aerodynamic.”

Jongho furrowed his brow. “Aerodynamic, huh? That narrows it down a bit. Maybe something with a sleeker build? A Wyrm variant? Or a Razorback?”

You snickered. “Hongjoong is going to have your head if he hears that. But even those breeds don’t seem quite right. There has to be one that’s also intelligent. Ajax was somehow able to learn Cirrus’ maneuvers, and I know for a fact Mingi couldn’t have taught him that flip.”

Jongho sighed, massaging his brow. “I’ve always told you I didn’t like him nor his ugly dragon. I plan to set up shop in my uncle’s library and we can dig deeper when I’m in town. You’re coming to his celebration, right?”

You groaned, pulling your pillow to your chest. “Do I have a choice?”

“If you don’t, I’ll tell everyone you think San is handsome.”

Rolling your eyes, you retorted, “San is handsome. That doesn’t work on me anymore.”

Jongho smirked, a mischievous glint in his eye. “Fine, then I’ll tell everyone about the time you fell into the fountain trying to impress him.”

You gasped, sitting up abruptly. “Choi Jongho, you wouldn’t dare!”

The grand hall of the Choi Estate was a sight to behold, a testament to the family’s wealth and status. The walls were adorned with intricate tapestries depicting the family’s storied history, their vibrant colors and detailed embroidery telling tales of valor and honor. The atmosphere was one of celebration and reverence, as friends and family gathered to honor the Choi patriarch on his special day.

San’s father, the elder General Choi, greeted guests up and down the hall, offering glass after glass of champagne and other spirits. His laughter boomed through the room, a testament to his larger-than-life personality. You managed to dodge him, offering your grandmother as a sacrificial lamb as you slipped away, her knowing smile indicating she was more than willing to take one for the team.

You weaved through the crowd, feeling a bit out of place in your simple but elegant strapless black gown. Its understated design contrasted with the more extravagant attire around you, yet the gown’s classic cut and the way it hugged your figure made you feel confident and poised.

“Are you here for a funeral or a celebration?” a familiar voice quipped behind you.

You whipped around to find San, the young General Choi, clad in a perfectly tailored suit that accentuated his broad shoulders and commanding presence. The corners of his mouth twitched into a smirk as he took in your startled reaction.

“Very funny,” you replied, rolling your eyes but unable to suppress a smile. “I was just trying to avoid your father’s relentless hospitality.”

San chuckled, his laughter a deep, comforting sound. “He does have a way of overwhelming people with his enthusiasm,” he admitted, glancing over at his father, who was now engaged in a hearty conversation with a group of military officials. “Looking for someone?”

“Just a familiar face,” you murmured, your gaze drifting away from the General. You scanned the crowd, your heart pounding as you searched for a certain someone. Striking, charming, refined, and utterly infuriating, with an undeniable pull—a magnetic attraction you couldn’t ignore.

“Am I not a familiar face?” San cocked his head, giving you one of his infamous cat-like smiles.

“Yes, but you’re not the one I’m looking for,” you scoffed, hitting his arm playfully. 

San brought his hand to his chest, feigning a dramatic gasp. “And here I thought I was unforgettable.”

“You are, just not in the way you think.”

“Ah, so there is someone! Now I’m intrigued.”

Unbeknownst to you, a pair of dark eyes watched from a distance. Seonghwa’s jaw tightened at the sight of you engaging with San, his usually composed demeanor slightly ruffled. A flicker of annoyance crossed his features as he struggled to maintain his cool amidst the growing irritation.

Trying to maintain his composure, he excused himself and stepped out into the cool night air. The distant noise of the party faded behind him as he took a deep breath, struggling to make sense of his conflicting emotions. How could he be so torn over someone who didn't even know how he felt?

“Seonghwa?” a familiar voice called out, breaking his moment of solitude. He turned to see Yeri, a former fling, standing a few feet away. She offered a tentative smile, as her eyes widened in calculated interest. 

“Yeri,” he acknowledged, his voice neutral but with a hint of underlying tension. 

There was a brief, awkward silence before Yeri spoke again, her tone measured and deliberately soft. “It’s been a while, hasn’t it?”

What had started as a casual, no-strings-attached situation between Seonghwa and Yeri had quickly turned into a short-lived romance riddled with miscommunication and trust issues. Seonghwa's demanding training schedule left Yeri feeling neglected and alone, while her need to maintain control on the crumbling relationship only added to the tension.

“Yeah, it has,” he agreed, his gaze drifting to the city lights beyond the terrace in an attempt to avoid the emotional weight of the conversation. 

“How’ve you been?” she asked, her tone smooth, almost tender though her eyes remained sharp.

“Fine,” he replied, his irritation from earlier slowly ebbing away, replaced by a different kind of tension.

She studied him for a moment, her expression thoughtful and probing. “You seemed a bit tense back there. Everything okay?”

Seonghwa sighed, leaning against the stone rail as his eyes wandered towards the grand hall, your figure only a few feet away from him. “Just… a lot on my mind, I guess.”

“Want to talk about it?” Yeri’s voice broke through his reverie, carrying a nostalgic note. 

He hesitated, then shook his head. “It’s not important.”

Yeri took a step closer, her gaze growing more intense as she searched his face for cracks in his resolve. “We used to share everything, remember? What happened to that?”

Despite their history, Yeri couldn't help but reach out to Seonghwa, feeding on his vulnerability to keep him tethered to her. "I know things ended badly, but we've both changed. Maybe we could give it another shot?"

Seonghwa’s emotions were a tangled mess as he looked into her pleading eyes. “You know that things weren’t good between us.”

Yeri took a step closer, her fingers lightly tracing the outline of his jaw. Her touch was gentle, almost tender, as she searched his eyes for any sign of resistance. “Why does being together have to be the only option?" she whispered. She leaned in, her breath warm against his skin, and her lips brushed against his.

Seonghwa knew it was wrong, but he just needed an escape, allowing himself to be drawn back into her orbit. The kiss lingered on his lips like a bittersweet memory as he pulled away, his eyes clouded with regret. “We can’t do this here,” he whispered, his voice barely audible.

She nodded, understanding the need for discreteness. They walked in silence, the tension between them almost tangible as Seonghwa led them away from prying eyes. He couldn’t shake the feeling that he was losing himself in the process, compromising his values for a fleeting moment of solace.

“There you two are,” Jongho interrupted, sidling up to you and San with a glass of whiskey in hand. His eyes sparkled with mischief as he took a sip.

“Finally decided to grace us with your presence,” you teased, unable to hide the smile that spread across your face. Then, your brow furrowed in concern. “Wait, aren’t you too young to be drinking alcohol?”

In a rebellious gesture, Jongho lifted the glass again and finished off the remaining whiskey before sticking his tongue out at you playfully. “Age is just a number,” he retorted, letting out a satisfied sigh. 

“I’m using this as an opportunity to network and improve diplomatic relations between Dune and Aurora,” he added with a mischievous grin, gesturing around the opulent room filled with dignitaries engaged in animated conversations.

San rolled his eyes at his younger cousin's antics. “I wouldn’t exactly call selling dragons a networking opportunity,” he remarked dryly.

“I’m just trying to keep the family business afloat,” the younger Choi chuckled, unaffected by his cousin's skepticism. 

Before you or San could respond, the room fell silent as Song Tae Gyu entered, his face unreadable. The grand hall, once filled with lively chatter and laughter, now buzzed with hushed whispers. Snippets of conversation about “Mingi,” “the Council,” and “unstable dragon” floated through the air like a dark cloud.

“Song Tae Gyu has some nerve showing up after what his son pulled,” Jongho sneered, his gaze fixed on Mingi’s father with a stone-cold expression. Ever the purist, Jongho’s disdain was palpable. You could almost feel the weight of his contempt for the way the Songs had let their son disgrace their house and the sanctity of dragon racing.

“He’s simply carrying out his duties to my father,” San reminded his cousin, his voice composed despite the discomfort evident in his body language. He glanced around the room, noting the wary eyes and cautious glances directed at Song Tae Gyu. “I know the Songs feel terrible about the incident, but as a vassal House, they have their obligations.”

San’s words were measured, but you could sense the underlying tension. The incident with Mingi had cast a momentary shadow over the evening, and the presence of Song Tae Gyu only served to deepen the unease. 

“Ah, Tae Gyu! So glad you could make it!” the elder General Choi exclaimed, clapping a hand on the man’s shoulder. “I was just telling everyone about the time you and I got lost in the ravine and had to spend the night in a cave. Remember that?”

The room erupted in laughter as Lord Choi recounted the tale with exaggerated gestures, painting a vivid picture of their misadventure. Even Song Tae Gyu managed a small, grateful smile, the worry lines on his face softening.

Jongho rolled his eyes but couldn’t suppress the small grin tugging at his lips. He took a sip from his glass, the warm liquid sliding down his throat as he mulled over his father's words. "Your father always knows how to lighten the mood," he muttered to San before turning to face you, swirling his empty glass in a playful gesture to signal his exit from the conversation.

“I’ll be around tomorrow if you want to dig through the records. I’m sure we’ll find something on that wannabe Longhorn.”

“What did you say?”

“Nothing, just bullshitting.”

“No! About the wannabe part.”

Jongho stared at you incredulously. "He's a poor example of the breed, just like how his rider is a poor excuse--"

The mention of the word "wannabe" caught your attention like a firework exploding in your mind. You could feel your heart racing as you frantically searched your knowledge for any clues about this breed.

Wannabe… Imitation… Copy… The word echoed in your mind, reverberating with increasing intensity. Your breath caught in your throat, and your heart began to race as you frantically sifted through your mental catalog of dragon breeds and their levels of intelligence.

Dreamwood Ridgeback, biddable with high emotional intellect… Cascade Wyvern, alert and confident… Star Fury, fiercely intelligent but too rare… Nettled…

A sudden realization hit you like a bolt of lightning. You turned sharply to face San, your eyes widening with urgency and determination. "Do you have a copy of a breed encyclopedia?" You could almost feel the gears turning in your head, piecing together the clues and making connections. It was all starting to make sense now.

San looked momentarily puzzled, his brow furrowing as he tried to process your sudden question. Before he could respond, Jongho stepped in with a confident grin. “Of course they do, I left one here to read during summers,” he said, patting San’s shoulder in a playful yet slightly condescending manner, acknowledging his older cousin’s limited mental acuity.

“Longhorns aren’t meant to be particularly intelligent,” you began, your voice steady but urgent. “But if Ajax was able to learn Cirrus’ maneuvers, there could only be one breed that matches the description.”

The three of you exchanged tense looks, the weight of the mystery pressing down on you. Without another word, you all turned and rushed out of the hall, each step bringing you closer to uncovering the truth.

You were met with the scent of aged paper and polished wood as San pushed open the library doors. You couldn't help but pause to take in the vast collection, your fingers tracing lightly over the spines of leather-bound books before delving deeper into the labyrinth of shelves. Lost in your admiration, you turned a corner and suddenly froze.

There, in a secluded nook, you found Seonghwa tangled up in the arms of a woman. The intimate scene was a stark contrast to the peaceful setting of the library. Your breath caught in your throat, and your heart pounded in your chest.

“Oh shit!” you gasped, the words slipping out before you could stop them. Your hands flew to cover your mouth as Seonghwa and Yeri sprang apart, their faces flushed with embarrassment. Seonghwa’s eyes darted toward yours, panic evident in his expression. 

San, ever the protector, rushed to your side and positioned himself between you and the unexpected sight. For a moment, no one moved. The silence was deafening, broken only by Jongho’s approaching footsteps. 

“Gods, I’m so s-sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt!” you stammered, your voice attempting to sound casual despite the hurt and confusion swirling within you. Why am I feeling this way, you wondered, the question demanding an answer that you can't give. 

You had always kept your relationship with Seonghwa strictly professional, despite the occasional flutter of emotions. Yet, seeing him with someone else stirred something unexpected within you. Was it jealousy? Or something deeper that you hadn’t acknowledged before? The thought unsettled you, adding another layer to the already tangled web of emotions you felt towards him. 

“I-I can explain–,” Seonghwa fumbled as he buttoned his shirt, the movements clumsy and rushed. He haphazardly threw his jacket back on, the fabric wrinkling under his frantic efforts. Yeri, equally flustered, tried to smooth her disheveled hair, her cheeks burning with shame. 

“We were just catching up. It’s been a long time since we last saw each other.” Her voice was shaky, betraying her own discomfort. 

“Well,” San began, addressing Seonghwa and Yeri. “If I had known the library would be used like this, I would have extended some charity to our esteemed guests.” His tone was polite but edged with a steely resolve that left no room for argument. “I’m sure we have a room befitting his grace as it appears that he is in desperate need of a hiding place—like a rat scurrying back into its hole.”

Yeri's face erupts in a fiery flush of humiliation as she hangs her head in shame, unable to bear the insulting words from San. San raises an eyebrow, daring either of them to stand up to him. "I'm leaving," she mumbles, quietly excusing herself without saying another word. As she walked away, the oppressive tension lingered in the air.

“R-Right. Well, I need to borrow the breed encyclopedia, so if I could just…” You fidgeted awkwardly, your finger darting around as you tried to locate the book. Jongho, noticing your discomfort, pointed to the upper shelf behind the former lovers. 

“It’s right there,” he said, his voice cutting through the thick silence as Seonghwa stepped aside to let you through. His eyes, filled with guilt, followed your every move.

"You good?" San asked, his protective instincts kicking in.

“I’ve got it, I just have to climb up,” you replied, your tone firmer than you felt. 

You began taking off your heels, the action giving you a moment to collect yourself. The cool marble against your bare feet contrasted the heat of your emotions. Lifting the skirt of your gown, you prepared to climb the ladder to the upper shelves when you felt Seonghwa’s hand on your arm. The unexpected touch sent a shock through you, and his grip was gentle yet firm, silently pleading for attention.

"I'll do it," he insisted, speaking in a low and earnest voice. You paused, looking up at him, meeting his eyes. In that moment, the vulnerability in his gaze disarmed you, but the hurt and confusion still swirled within your mind. 

"Please.”

Reluctantly, you stepped aside, allowing him to retrieve the book. Each movement he made was careful and deliberate, as if he were trying to prove his worth through this small act. You watched him reach the upper shelf and retrieve the encyclopedia, its weight seemingly insignificant in his hands. 

San’s eyes darted between you and Seonghwa. He couldn’t make sense of why Seonghwa was so insistent on helping you, a rare display of protectiveness that went against his aloof nature. A knowing smirk tugged at the corner of his lips.

Seonghwa handed you the book, his hand lingering for a moment longer than necessary, as if he wanted to say something more. His eyes held a silent plea, a desperate hope for a chance to explain himself, but your focus remained elsewhere, avoiding the intensity of his gaze.

“Thank you,” you murmured, clutching the book to your chest, its worn cover a small comfort as you put distance between yourself and Seonghwa. "I should get going," you suggested with exasperation evident in your voice. 

The intensity of the situation was suffocating, and you needed an escape. Without waiting for a response, you turned on your heel and walked away, each step feeling like a small victory against the turmoil that threatened to consume you. 

A wave of guilt washed over Seonghwa knowing that he was partially responsible for your sudden departure. His chest tightened and he clenched his fists, feeling the sting of his own actions. He stood there, paralyzed by the weight of his guilt, until San’s voice cut through the fog of his thoughts.

“I must say, your ability to find yourself in compromising situations never fails to impress me. It truly is a talent,” he remarked with mock admiration.

Seonghwa’s eyes flashed with anger as he spat out through gritted teeth, “And you seem to take great pleasure in reveling in another’s misfortune.” His voice was thick with venom, each word a dagger aimed at San.

“Isn’t that exactly what you were doing to Y/N?" San replied, his tone casual and unbothered, as if Seonghwa’s seething rage was nothing more than a mild inconvenience. 

Seonghwa opened his mouth to retort, but his words caught in his throat as his gaze fell to the ground. There, lying abandoned on the floor, were the heels you had left behind. The sight of them hit him like a punch to the gut–a reminder of your abrupt departure. His anger gave way as he walked over to pick up the shoes.

“I didn’t know,” he muttered, more to himself than to anyone else. “I didn’t mean to hurt her.”

“Well, she’ll be hurt more if she steps on a sharp object without any shoes on,” Jongho quipped dryly, his tone mixed with pragmatic concern. His eyes silently urged Seonghwa to go after you. 

Seonghwa stood there for a moment, clutching your heels, his mind racing. He couldn’t let you leave like this, not without explaining himself. Taking a deep breath to steady himself, he set out after you, determined to make things right.

“You did not fly all the way home without your heels,” Sunmi yawned, cradling Siwoo in her arms. Your nephew let out a string of babbles, his tiny face scrunched up as if he were reprimanding you for your forgetfulness.

“Just did,” you said with a shrug, lifting the skirt of your gown and wiggling your bare toes in the air. “I mean, it’s not like I planned to leave my heels there and honestly, I didn’t even notice until I got home,” you lied. 

Sunmi’s eyebrows knitted together in concern as she studied you. “What happened?” she asked, her voice softening. She shifted Siwoo to her other arm, his tiny head resting against her shoulder. The gentle rise and fall of his breathing seemed to mirror the rhythm of your own anxious heartbeats.

You sighed deeply, feeling the weight of the evening’s events, the exhaustion and emotional turmoil finally having caught up with you. “This happened,” you said, holding up the encyclopedia for her to see. The book felt heavy in your hands, not just in weight but in the significance of what it represented.

“I think I might’ve figured out the other half of Ajax’s pedigree. I didn’t have my own copy so I borrowed Jongho’s. I’m going to do some work,” you explained, determined to solve the mystery you’ve been chasing for months now. 

You retreated to your study, sliding into your desk chair. Your fingers trembled slightly as you flipped through the pages, each one filled with intricate illustrations and detailed descriptions of various dragon breeds. A sense of awe washed over you as you read through breeds, old and new—each more fascinating than the last. As you continued, your anticipation grew, until finally, your eyes landed on the page you were searching for. 

You studied the avian-looking dragon. Its sleek, streamlined body was adorned with grotesque feathers hanging from its gangly, mismatched wings. The large, bug-like eyes bulged with an eerie intelligence, giving the dragon an almost alien appearance. They stared back at you with a knowing, unsettling awareness. Its sharp, curved beak-like snout added to its avian resemblance, but instead of elegance, it exuded menace and predatory intent, as if ready to strike at any moment.

“Found you,” you whispered, a triumphant smile spreading across your face. Your mind raced with the implications of this discovery, the pieces of the puzzle finally coming together. As you scribbled notes on your scratch pad, thoughts of your job at the Institute surfaced; the resources and access you had there could be invaluable for digging deeper into the investigation and revealing the truth about Ajax. 

A sudden knock against your doorframe startled you from your thoughts. You blinked, momentarily readjusting your glasses to make sure you weren’t imagining things.

“Seonghwa?”

Seonghwa stood in the doorway to your office, the soft light from the lamp casting a glow that accentuated his sharp features and the depth in his eyes. The usual strands of his updo were windswept, adding a touch of wildness indicating that he wasted no time trying to find you. His tie hung loosely around his neck, its knot undone splayed over his chest–and your stilettos, with their long, thin heels hung from his hands. 

“You forgot these.” He held out the heels, his expression sheepish as his eyes darted between the shoes and your face. The contrast between his usually confident demeanor and the awkwardness of the gesture made him all the more endearing.

Your fingers brushed against his in a brief, electric touch. “Thank you,” you said, touched by his thoughtfulness. “You didn’t have to come all this way.”

He stepped closer, the scent of his cologne filling your senses, creating an intoxicating blend that heightened the tension between you. His eyes, usually so guarded, now held a vulnerability you’d never seen before.

“I realized I’d never see you again if I didn’t bring them,” he said, his words tumbling out quickly as if he feared losing the courage to say them. “And… I wanted to make sure you were okay.”

Seonghwa’s gaze lingered on you for a moment, taking in every detail of your appearance. He noticed your furrowed brow and the slight tilt of your head as you spoke. His eyes traced the curve of your neck to your collarbone, where the strapless black gown rested. The way the lamplight highlighted the contours of your features made him forget how to breathe.

“You haven’t changed out of your gown?” he asked, his voice softening with genuine curiosity and admiration.

You yawned and stretched slightly. “It’s too pretty to take off.”

“It suits you.” You felt a blush creep up your cheeks, and you looked away, trying to hide your smile.

“Guess I just didn’t want the night to end.” 

He took a deep breath, his chest rising and falling as he tried to steady himself. “I’m sorry, Y/N,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

You raised an eyebrow, feeling a knot form in your stomach. “What are you apologizing for?”

“I made a mess of things, and you got caught in the crossfire,” he confessed, his voice cracking. “Seeing you hurt because of what happened in the library has been eating away at me. I never, never meant to hurt you. It made me realize that I don’t want to lose you.”

His words hung in the air, heavy with regret and desperation. You could see the anguish in his eyes, the way his hands trembled slightly as he spoke. You looked down at the heels in your hands, feeling a swell of emotions rise within you before setting them down. 

“You’re only human, Seonghwa,” you said softly, despite the storm swirling within you. “We all make mistakes. What matters is that you’re here now, trying to make things right. So, thank you.”

You let the words settle between you before taking your own breath. “While you're here, I’m…thinking of going back to the Institute,” you say. “I think I’ve figured out Ajax’s missing half but I don’t think our case against the necropsy will be very effective if I don’t have access to all the necessary resources.” 

Seonghwa’s expression shifted from relief to a playful glint as he leaned in. “I bare my soul to you and you’re already leaving me?”

You scoffed. “I wouldn’t consider that soul baring,” you smiled, trying to ignore the flutter in your chest.

"Guess I'll have to visit you every day since you'll be close to the capitol," he murmured, his voice deep and teasing as he leaned in. “I don’t plan on letting you go back to Wooyoung that easily.” Seonghwa's hand takes hold of your face, his thumb sweeping across your jawline.

You welcomed his touch, yet the weight of your true feelings was almost too much to bear. A raw ache in your chest served as a painful reminder: Seonghwa was not yours, and he never would be. You had accepted this, even if it stung more than you were willing to admit. 

<< viii | daylight | x >>

taglist: @litolmochi @syubseokie @park-simphwa @szakias

THE LAST PART?????? WHAT IS GOING AWN HOLY SHIT I SAT UP SO FAST

away with the wind | viii

Pairing: dragonrider!Seonghwa x ex-dragonrider!Reader AU: dragon rider au | strangers -> lovers Summary: a spinal injury forces you to retire from dragon racing, and with it, the end of your engagement to Song Mingi. Park Seonghwa, a rising star in the world of dragon racing and heir to the prestigious House Park, seeks a new dragon after an unfortunate accident on the skyway. As the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Word Count: 6.7K Warnings: depictions of blood, mommy issues, not proofread

a/n: ya'll asked for the heartfelt route so here's a 6.7K worded chapter

Fic Masterlist

Seonghwa sat in his office, the weight of the recent events weighing heavily on his mind. His desk was cluttered with papers strewn about in a chaotic manner that mirrored his thoughts. He glanced at the clock on the wall, the hands moving slower with each passing minute, mocking his exhaustion. 

When his identity was revealed as one of the riders involved in the incident, Haerin wasted no time increasing security around the perimeter of the estate, their presence a visible deterrent to any would-be intruders or members of the press. The headlines and political commentaries had been relentless–though Seonghwa was painted in a more favorable light, he couldn’t shake the feeling of being watched, the eyes of the world seemingly fixed on him, especially with the skyway being closed. 

*PING*

[Y/N L/N]: Day 10 of sleeping in the caverns [Attachment] 

Seonghwa couldn’t help but smile at the photo you sent him. Starshine was curled around you, her massive body forming a warm cocoon as you lay nestled in your sleeping bag. Despite the evident discomfort of your expression, the sight of you two together, safe and at peace, brought a sense of relief to his heart.

Given the current circumstances, he made the decision to board Starshine with your family, knowing that it would be too stressful for her to remain at the estate with the press camped outside the gates. Under the protection of multiple adult dragons, your family offered sanctuary for her. Seonghwa knew it was the right choice, but the separation was bittersweet.

As he prepared to start his term at the Assembly—a temporary role until he could return to racing—he missed the comforting presence of his dragon. Yet, seeing her so content and knowing she was in good hands eased his worries. He recognized that the short foray into Auroran politics was daunting, but his commitment to his House gave him the resolve to face it head on. 

[Lord Cash Money]: Tell her I miss her  [Lord Cash Money]: Was she good today? [Lord Cash Money]: Did she eat?  [Lord Cash Money]: Does she need anything? I'll come by tomorrow [Y/N L/N]: Still a little anxious, but she’s still one of the better behaved dragons around here [Y/N L/N]: She did eat, we had lamb on the menu today  [Y/N L/N]: Bring money and build a house here. Also might die from mold toxicity from sleeping in the caverns

“You look exhausted,” a voice remarked, drawing Seonghwa’s attention away from his phone.

Standing in the doorway was Kim Sangjoong, Hongjoong’s father and the formidable Lord of House Kim. The elder Kim’s presence was commanding, his sharp eyes surveying the room and the man before him with keen interest.

“Your grace,” Seonghwa greeted, bowing respectfully as he gestured for the elder Kim to take a seat. “What brings you here at this hour?”

Kim Sangjoong stepped into the office with a graceful ease, offering Seonghwa a warm, reassuring smile. “I came to see how you are doing,” he said, his voice rich with empathy. “The path of a young Lord is not an easy one to tread.”

Seonghwa felt a surge of gratitude. “Thank you, your grace,” he said, his voice strained with mental exhaustion. “I am not a Lord by trade, and I had not fully comprehended the intricate nature of our political system.”

“The path of leadership is fraught with challenges, but it is your resilience and adaptability that will see you through,” said with a deep-seated wisdom. You are always more than welcome to consult me any time, as I’ve come to seek counsel from you.”

“Thank you, your grace,” Seonghwa said, his voice steadier now, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly as he absorbed the words. “What can I help you with?”

Kim Sangjoong chuckled softly before settling into the chair, his expression thoughtful. The weight of the situation was evident in the furrow of his brow. “I’m sure you’re aware that the Council has begun their investigation of Song Mingi. We expect the necropsy report from the Institute by the end of the week.”

Seonghwa nodded, his mind already racing with the implications. “Yes, I’m well aware. The keepers informed me after the race. Y/N mentioned that Dr. Kang Yeosang would be performing the… examination.”

The thought of Dr. Kang dissecting Ajax’s decapitated head was deeply unsettling. Seonghwa couldn’t bear the idea of a dragon being treated so callously, even in death. His stomach churned at the mental image, and he had to take a deep breath to steady himself.

“Dr. Kang is quite the enigma, though undeniably brilliant. Hongjoong speaks very highly of him,” Sangjoong remarked, his eyes narrowing slightly as if trying to solve a puzzle. “I wanted to ask if you are familiar with Cromer Labs?”

Seonghwa raised a brow, curiosity piqued. “Cromer Labs? What could they possibly have to do with this?” 

Lord Kim leaned forward, his tone serious. “Is it true that they work toward reducing genetic diseases in dragons?”

Seonghwa’s eyes widened slightly. “Yes, that’s part of their public mission. They’ve been involved in genetic research for years, claiming to focus on eradicating hereditary conditions in dragons.”

“Then what business do they have recruiting children through the academy? Song Mingi mentioned that he was offered a dragon in exchange for committing to race for the organization,” Lord Kim’s expression darkened as he recounted the exchange in the grand council room.

“If they’re using the academy to find young, impressionable talent and offering dragons as incentives, there could be something more sinister at play,” Seonghwa replied, crossing his arms and leaning back slightly. “They haven’t been in the racing world for very long, if Mingi is their first S-class rider.”

The relationship between sponsors and riders is symbiotic. Riders gain the essential resources to excel, while sponsors enjoy heightened brand exposure and the excitement of being linked to the sport. For some riders, sponsorships are their lifeline, providing the financial support needed to travel, train, and compete at the highest levels.

“Have they ever approached you with an offer?”

“I don’t waste my time with mid-tier organizations,” Seonghwa sighed, waving a hand dismissively. “I can have someone pull the guest list from the gala to see if they attended.”

“Very well,” Lord Kim murmured, his voice low and contemplative. “If they are supplying dragons to young riders, I suspect they are using unscrupulous acquisition methods. Please let me know if you find anything.”

“Of course,” Seonghwa bowed, a determined look in his eyes. “Ah, Lord Kim before you go. I was wondering if it’s possible for the Council to request a breakdown of the dragon’s parentage in the necropsy report.”

Lord Kim raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the suggestion. “A report of parentage? That’s an interesting idea.”

Seonghwa nodded, his expression earnest. “Yes, it could help us trace the origins of these dragons and identify their origins.”

“I believe that is possible given how far technology has come. We have the means to analyze genetic material in great detail now. I can ask for that to be included,” Sangjoong replied, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. 

“Thank you, your grace.”

“By the way, how are you liking your Dreamwood?” the elder asked, his tone shifting to one of curiosity. “Your dragon is quite remarkable in combat. I didn’t realize Chunja was breeding them for battle.”

He noticed the way Seonghwa’s eyes sparkled,lighting up with enthusiasm as if he had just been asked to list off his favorite foods. “Starshine is incredible,” he began, his voice filled with admiration. 

“Her agility and intellect are unmatched, and she has this unique bond with me that I’ve never experienced with any other dragon. She’s a natural at picking things up quickly! Did you know that she perfected a spiral dive on her first try? She also fetches! Oh, would you like to see the custom harness I had commissioned for her–”

The elder smiled, nodding along to Seonghwa’s enthusiastic chatter, pleased to see him so animated. It brought him some relief to witness the young Lord still retaining a zest for life, despite the heavy responsibilities placed upon him after his father’s untimely death.

The late Lord Park had been a revered figure, known for being his compassion. His sudden illness had taken everyone by surprise, and despite the best efforts of medical personnel, he had succumbed to it, passing away when Seonghwa was just 19. The loss had left a profound void in Seonghwa’s life, thrusting him into responsibilities he had scarcely been prepared for.

“You both make an excellent team. Y/N has done a tremendous job coaching you.” 

“Yes, her expertise has been invaluable on the skyway. She’s incredibly capable and dedicated to the sport,” he replied, his expression softening at the thought of you. “She was the one who identified the discrepancies in Ajax’s anatomy and taught me how to combat him effectively.”

Kim Sangjoong gave a small, knowing smile, as if he could see right through the young Lord. “You seem quite fond of her. It’s good to have such reliable people by your side, especially in times like these.”

Seonghwa felt a slight flush rise to his cheeks, his composure wavering. “I-I… Yes, she has been a pillar of support,” he replied, his voice betraying his flustered state. “A friend… and, an invaluable ally.”

Lord Kim suddenly scowled, breaking the moment. “Unlike that rascal son of mine who never leaves that damned archive! He’s only come home once this month. His mother is worried sick for him. I swear, if he doesn’t come home more often, she’s going to march down there and drag him out by his ear!”

Hongjoong felt a shiver crawl up his spine, as if an unseen presence were cursing him. He shook off the eerie sensation and returned to storing away scrolls, determined to ignore whatever naysayers had to say about his passion for history.

The archives were eerily quiet, the only sound the faint rustle of pages turning somewhere in the distance. The dim light from the overhead lamps cast long, flickering shadows, adding to the unsettling atmosphere. Each shadow seemed to dance with a life of its own, making the vast room feel both alive and hauntingly empty.

“Hey!” You greeted, poking your head through the spaces of the bookshelf, your sudden appearance breaking the silence.

“Gods! Y/N, don’t scare me like that!” he shouted, his voice echoing slightly in the vast room. He placed a hand over his heart, trying to calm the rapid beating. His eyes were wide with surprise, and he took a moment to steady his breathing.

“Sorry,” you grinned. “I just wanted to thank you for the heads up about Mingi the other day. The one time you went home paid off.”

Hongjoong let out a breath, his initial shock giving way to a smile. “No problem. Just try not to give me a heart attack next time.”

Starshine had been boarded in the caverns for a little over a week, to avoid any stress from the ongoing turmoil of the fight’s aftermath. Her once vibrant and spirited demeanor had noticeably dimmed since being separated from Seonghwa. She spent most of her time trailing behind you, her steps heavy with melancholy. When not following you, she could be found lying outside the manor, her head resting on her forelegs, or near the gates, ears perked up at the slightest sound, hoping it might be Seonghwa coming by to see her. 

“Your papa said he’ll be coming by today,” you reassured, scratching her chin. “He has to do his other job since the skyway’s closed.” 

She pouted, readjusting her head comfortably in your lap and let out a soft trill, as if she were trying to tell you that “she understands” but still misses her rider dearly. Seeing her like this tore at your heart. Each day, her sadness seemed to deepen, and it pained you to witness her so despondent. You felt a surge of frustration and decided you couldn’t stand by any longer.

“Come on, pick up,” you grumbled, hoping Seonghwa would answer. The tone rang for a little while before a flustered Seonghwa’s face manifested into a hologram.

“Y/N!” he exclaimed relief and urgency in his voice. “Is everything okay?”

“Starshine needs you,” you replied, pointing the screen at the silver dragon who perked up at his voice. You could see her eyes sparkle with a glimmer of hope, and she took a few eager steps towards the screen. Her tail whipped excitedly as she let out a high-pitched whine, indicating her impatience and need to see him. 

“I’m sorry! I’ll be on my way shortly! Assembly took longer than usual.” Seonghwa said, hurrying down the steps of the grand capitol building. 

“Ah, the glamorous life of a true Lord,” you teased with a smirk.

“Who’s on duty?” he asked, mounting his motorbike. 

“Dante,” you deadpanned.

As one of the oldest dragons in your family, Dante had originally belonged to your great-great grandmother before becoming your grandmother’s steadfast companion after her passing. Despite his grumpy exterior, Dante was fiercely loyal and protective, especially when it came to his family. His strict sense of duty and quick enforcement of the rules with a stern claw made him a formidable presence. 

Yet, beneath his tough exterior, there lay a softer side reserved for the young dragons and humans he shared his home with. He watched over them from a distance, ensuring their safety with a silent, unwavering vigilance.

Seonghwa’s heart dropped into his stomach at the name of your grandmother’s crotchety dragon. “Does it have to be Dante?” he gulped, his face paling slightly. 

He vividly recalled the moment he met Dante. It was a few days after Starshine began boarding with your family, and as he was exiting his vehicle, a threatening growl echoed through the air. Seonghwa looked up to see the dragon perched on top of the stone gates leading up to the manor. His deep, green scales glinted ominously in the sunlight as his piercing eyes locked onto him. 

Seonghwa watched in horror as Dante’s gaze shifted to the car, and with a sudden, terrifying roar, he lunged forward, his claws scraping against the roof of the vehicle. Since the encounter, he’s opted for his motorbike as his preferred mode of transportation.

“He’s on rotation today,” you shrugged, feeling a bit sorry for him. “I’ll let grandma know you’re coming by, but I can’t promise that he won’t try to crush your bike.”

He sighed deeply, running a hand through his hair. “Great. I’ll be there soon. Tell Starshine to hang in there for me, okay?”

You nodded, giving Starshine a reassuring pat. “You hear that? He’s on his way. Just a little longer.” She let out another soft chirp, her eyes fixed on the screen, her tail still wagging with anticipation.

By the grace of the Gods, Seonghwa managed to make it past the gates, all thanks to your presence. You stood by as Dante grumbled slightly from his perch on the manor’s roof, his eyes never leaving Seonghwa. The dragon’s deep, rumbling growl was a constant reminder of his watchful vigilance. 

Starshine, on the other hand, was a bundle of energy, vibrating with excitement at the sight of her rider. Her tail wagged furiously, and she let out a series of joyful trills, her eyes sparkling with happiness. The sight of the young dragon’s unbridled joy made it all worthwhile. She nuzzled against him, her scales warm to the touch. 

“I don’t think I could have made it past Dante without you,” Seonghwa admitted, with a sigh of relief.

You smiled, giving him a reassuring pat. “He’s just doing his job. But I’m glad you’re here. She really missed you.” You looked up to the ornery dragon perched on the roof and called out to him. “Do you want to say hello?”

Dante huffed and turned away, his tail flicking dismissively. “I guess that’s a no,” you chuckled. “He’s always been a bit of a grump, but he means well.”

“I’ll just have to earn his trust, I suppose,” Seonghwa nodded, glancing up at him. 

“In the meantime, your main priority is making your dragon happy. I don’t think she wants to be away from you any longer.”

He grinned, his tension easing as he stroked her scales. “I’ve missed you too, girl.” 

You melted at the sight of their reunion. The bond between them was a testament to the deep connection they shared, despite only having been bonded for less than a year. Seonghwa’s face softened, his usual composed demeanor giving way to a rare display of emotion. He wrapped his arms around Starshine’s neck, whispering soothing words that only she could hear. It was a moment of pure, unfiltered happiness.

Seonghwa looked up, his eyes meeting yours with a deep sense of gratitude. “Thank you for taking care of her,” he said, his voice soft but sincere.

“Always,” you grinned, feeling a warmth spread through your chest. “She’s been waiting all day for you to pilot her. I can get her saddled up if you want?”

“I’d love that. And for you to come along. On Cirrus, of course. I have something to talk to you about,” he stumbled, earning a raised brow from you.

As you prepared Starshine for flight, you couldn’t help but notice Seonghwa watching you. There was something different in his gaze, a warmth that hadn’t been there before. His eyes followed your every movement, lingering on the way you gently adjusted Starshine’s harness and the care you took in checking the saddle. You felt your heart racing, the irregular beat betraying your emotions.

Sensing a sudden shift in your heart rate, Cirrus emerged from her den in the caverns, a curious tilt of her head as she glanced between you and Seonghwa. She paused briefly, her keen senses picking up on your irregular heartbeat. 

“Cirrus, come,” you called for her, but let out a scoff when she ignored you and bounded over toward Seonghwa, her delight evident after what seemed like an eternity apart. She poked her snout into his chest, her eyes wide and inquisitive, demanding to know where he had been and whether he would ever retrieve her sulky niece. Her nudges were insistent, her eyes full of questions and a hint of reproach.

Seonghwa chuckled, his fondness for you evident in the way he gently stroked Cirrus’s snout. He couldn’t help but think how endearing you looked, even when you were frustrated at your dragon’s disobedience. 

“Traitor,” you muttered, unable to suppress a smile as you picked up Starshine’s reins.“ You ready to go?” 

He nodded and mounted Starshine with practiced ease, the silver dragon’s wings cutting through the air with powerful strokes as they ascended into the sky. You followed closely behind on Cirrus, her sleek lavender form gliding effortlessly through the air. The wind whipped past you, carrying the scent of the elements below. You matched your speed to Starshine’s, the two dragons flying in perfect harmony.

“What did you need to talk about?” you called out, your voice barely carrying over the rush of wind.

Seonghwa glanced at you, his expression serious. “Lord Kim came by yesterday,” he replied, his voice steady but filled with concern.

You furrowed your brow as a knot formed in your stomach. “What did he say?”

“He’s skeptical about Cromer Labs' recruitment tactics. I wanted to ask if you knew anything about it since Mingi brought it up in his testimony.”

You nodded, guiding Cirrus into a gentle glide as you both descended towards a clearing. “Mingi lived for that organization. They gave him his big break and delivered on everything they promised during the recruitment process. The only catch was that he had to travel to Halazia to pick up Ajax. That much I told you about.”

He sighed, landing gracefully next to you, the soft thud of his boots barely audible on the ground. “The fact that they have 15-year-olds crossing the border is a red flag,” he said, dismounting from Starshine. “I’m surprised you weren’t arrested.”

“I get it, I was a reckless teenager doing illegal things. That doesn’t mean I haven’t learned from it,” you said, a hint of defensiveness in your voice as you rolled your eyes. You plopped down on to the grass tucking your legs into your chest, feeling a little sulky. You weren’t sure why Seonghwa’s words bothered you so much, perhaps the thought of him seeing you as irresponsible stung more than you cared to admit. 

His expression softened, and he shuffled over. “I didn’t mean to criticize you, I’m sorry it came across that way.” You only nodded, feeling dejected, the weight of his words lingered in the air, making you feel more vulnerable than you wanted to admit. 

“Do you remember anything else about Halazia or even the recruitment process?”

“He had to recite a password or a riddle at the vendor’s,” you recalled, your mind drifting back to the tense moment. “Something about his heart on fire and a race. I was too busy scanning the area for an emergency exit to pay any attention.”

His brow furrowed. “It sounds more like a cult than a genetics lab.” 

You couldn’t help but agree. “I wouldn’t put it past them, given the way Mingi kissed their asses,” you replied, a hint of disdain creeping into your tone. “I’m not sure how helpful this would be in the investigation with the Council but I hope it’s a start.” You fiddled with a blade of grass, twisting it between your fingers as you spoke.

Seonghwa watched you for a moment, sensing the subtle frustration in your movements as you plucked at the ground. For some reason, it made him want to reach out and comfort you. He cleared his throat, trying to focus on the matter at hand.

“I also requested that Ajax’s DNA be tested for a breakdown of his parentage. I’m assuming almost all the dragons across the empire and beyond are being tracked this way now,” he said, sitting down beside you, the grass rustling softly under his weight.

“Do you realize how much time we could have saved if we requested that from the start?” you snorted, leaning against Cirrus. The dragon’s warm scales provided a comforting support as you leaned against her. 

Seonghwa chuckled softly, shaking his head. “Hindsight is always twenty-twenty, isn’t it? At least we’ll be moving in the right direction.”

“Better late than never, I suppose. It’s just frustrating to think about all the time we wasted, especially since Dr. Kang works in the Biology department at the Institute. Did you know that he mapped the entire genome of Dune Razorbacks and is working on methods to improve durability in their scales? But that’s nowhere near ready for public knowledge. He also…” you rambled, listing off Dr. Kang’s accomplishments. 

Seonghwa enjoyed your rambling, finding your curiosity and passion for conservation and research, utterly fascinating. He could listen to you talk for hours about the intricate details of dragon science rather than shouting commands and orders at him. However, hearing you talk about another man stirred jealousy within him, a discomfort he couldn’t quite shake off.

Genuine connections were a rarity, and trust was something he had learned to withhold. Outside of his friendships with Hongjoong and Yunho, you offered him a safe space where he could be himself, free from judgment or expectation. To him your company was a breath of fresh air, a sanctuary from the pressures and constraints of his life as Lord Park Seonghwa. 

“How are you doing?” 

You turned to face him, taken aback by his sudden question. “Me? Fine, I guess. Thanks to the incident, we’ve been getting a large number of inquiries about our dragons but we don’t plan on selling or breeding anytime soon. How are you, though?” 

“I don’t want to know about the dragons, I want to know about you,” Seonghwa said, propping his chin in the palm of his hand, offering you a small smile. 

His words caught you off guard, and you felt a warmth spread through your chest. “Oh,” you whispered, feeling a bit exposed under his intense gaze. “I’ve been… managing. It’s strange not training and not being back at the Institute. Sometimes it feels like I’m just going through the motions.” You fell backwards onto the grass, staring at the sky, a canvas of colors transitioning from the warm hues of sunset to the cool tones of twilight.

“But I really do worry about you,” you said, your eyes meeting his. “You’ve been under so much pressure lately, and with you not racing, you’ve taken on a lot of responsibilities for your House. How are you doing?”

The grand hall of the capitol building was abuzz with activity as Lords and Assembly members gathered for the day’s session. Seonghwa stood near the entrance, exchanging polite greetings with those who approached him. Despite the formalities, he could sense the undercurrent of whispers that followed him.

“Have you heard the latest?” Lord Min murmured, glancing around to ensure they weren’t overheard. “They say there’s a power struggle within House Park.”

Lady Son raised an eyebrow. “You mean between Lord Park and his mother? I’ve heard she’s still calling the shots behind the scenes which is why he’s now making appearances at Assembly.”

“With Lady Park’s influence, it’s difficult to tell where his authority ends and hers begins.”

As the whispers continued, Seonghwa caught snippets of their conversation. He maintained his composure, his expression unreadable. 

Seonghwa took a moment before responding, his shoulders sagging slightly. “Between ensuring my House’s interests are protected, dodging the press, and learning the ins and outs of our political system… sometimes it feels like I’m trying to keep everything from falling apart,” he admitted, his voice carrying a weight of unspoken burdens.

“I want to stand on my own, to prove that I’m capable of leading without anyone’s shadow looming over me. That’s why I decided to start attending Assembly gatherings until I can return to racing. But there are those casting doubt upon my leadership thinking I’m just a puppet. I feel…useless.”

“Oh Seonghwa," you began softly, your voice filled with compassion. “I’m so sorry you’ve had to carry so much on your own. The responsibilities you’ve taken on are immense, but you’re handling them with such grace and strength.” 

Your voice grew firmer, filled with conviction as you reached out, gently placing a hand on his arm. “I wish I could do more to help you, but know that I believe in you. With all my h-heart,” you stammered. 

“Your courage and dedication are truly inspiring, and I know there are so many people out there in your corner. Please don’t let the doubts of others overshadow your achievements, or your potential. You’re doing an incredible job taking the first step in leading your House, even if it doesn’t always feel that way.”

The thoughtful expression on Seonghwa’s face was illuminated by the soft glow of the setting sun, giving his strong features an ethereal appearance. His eyes, framed by his tousled locks, reflected a quiet fervor that made your heart skip a beat. 

“Thank you, that means a lot,” he murmured, his voice sincere, running his lithe fingers across the intricate crown of horns on Starshine’s head. The weight of his burdens seemed to lift slightly with your reassurance, his eyes filling with hope. 

“You’ve also done more than enough by the way,” he said, his voice carrying a depth of emotion that made your breath catch.

“Please be kind to yourself. You know you won’t have to face things alone,” you said, your voice filled with reassurance as you gazed at the first stars twinkling in the deepening indigo sky. 

Seonghwa felt a profound sense of relief wash over him. The constant pressure and responsibilities had been overwhelming, but your unwavering support made him feel lighter, more hopeful. Noticing a blade of grass tucked between the stands of your hair, he reached out brushing through your locks as you sat up. 

“You’ve got a little something here,” he murmured, his voice low and husky. A playful glint danced in his eyes as he gently brushed small blades of grass from your hair. The simple act made your pulse quicken, leaving you momentarily breathless. Your heart raced, flustered by the intensity of the moment.

His touch was light, almost teasing, as he carefully untangled a few strands from the debris. The warmth of his hand lingered, each movement deliberate and slow, sending a delightful shiver down your spine.

“Done,” he hummed, his lips curling into a smirk as he leaned in closer, his breath warm against your cheek. The proximity was electrifying, every inch of space between you charged with unspoken tension. “Where’s my thanks?”

“I will bite you,” you shot back, your tone playful but daring. You grabbed a handful of the soft grass and playfully tossed it at him, feeling a rush of exhilaration at your boldness. The grass scattered in the air, some of it landing in his hair and on his shoulders.

Seonghwa’s gaze lingered on you, the once teasing glint in his eyes giving way to something deeper, more intense. “Feisty,” he mused. His presence was intoxicating, a heady mix of warmth and magnetism that left you feeling lightheaded as you rose to your feet.

He stood up, brushing the grass off his clothes with an exaggerated flourish. His hand reached out, fingers lightly grazing your arm before sliding down to wrap around your wrist. Your breath hitched at his touch–it was electrifying and you couldn’t help but want to lean in. You turned around, only to be met by a sudden fistful of grass in your face. 

You blinked in surprise, completely caught off guard as the soft blades clung to your hair and clothes. Your eyes widened, and your mouth fell open in shock as you processed what had just happened.

“PARK SEONGHWA!” you shrieked, as he erupted into a fit of laughter. 

“You’re home late.” 

Seonghwa closed his eyes for a moment, steeling himself before stepping into his office. His mother was sitting at his desk, holding a photograph of their family, taken when his father was still alive, a reminder of happier times. Haerin’s presence, coupled with the poignant reminder of the photo, weighed heavily on him, underscoring the responsibilities he couldn’t escape.

“I went to see Starshine,” he replied, his tone weary. He moved to the chaise and tossed his jacket onto it, the fabric making a dull thud, the seat creaking under his weight. 

“I’m surprised you have the courage to be out and about with those vultures circling the premises,” she remarked, her eyes never leaving his face.

“It’s not like I can just disappear. I also have a responsibility to her as her rider while she’s being boarded with Y/N.”

Haerin nodded. “While you were out playing house, I’ve had to once again remind the press that you were on the defense and that Song Mingi lost control of his dragon,” she said, her tone steady. 

Seonghwa sat up, his eyes flashing with anger. “Playing house? Is that what you think I’m doing? I’m fulfilling my duties as a rider and navigating political waters. This isn’t some trivial matter.”

“Dragon’s won’t face any political repercussions,” Haerin said dismissively. “Unlike Song Mingi, who will be fined by the Council and suspended for a year. All but one of his sponsors have pulled their support to distance themselves from the incident.”

“How are you so sure the Council will fine and suspend him? The necropsy hasn’t even been completed.” 

“Because the Council has already made up their minds,” Haerin replied, her expression hardening. “They need a scapegoat to maintain their image, and Mingi’s faux pas makes for the perfect opportunity.”

Seonghwa leaned back, frustration evident in his eyes. “How would that be a fair trial? The Council is not above the law. They should be impartial.”

Haerin sighed, her expression softening as she looked at her son. “The Council is under immense pressure to act swiftly and decisively. They believe punishing Mingi will placate the public and stakeholders. The truth will come out, and Song Mingi’s fate will be decided,” she reassured him. “The investigation is necessary, and we cannot afford any distractions.”

“Distractions?”

“Your trainer and frequent visits to her House,” Haerin paused, carefully selecting her words. “I cannot help but wonder if there is more to your relationship beyond professional respect.”

“The investigation has nothing to do with Y/N,” Seonghwa replied quickly, his voice tight. 

“Is it not odd that she used to be Song Mingi’s ex-fiancée? Think about how that reflects on you!” Haerin’s voice was sharp, her gaze unwavering. “Seonghwa, you cannot afford to be dragged further into this investigation through personal entanglements now that you’ve started your term with the Assembly!”

Seonghwa’s frustration boiled over, his voice rising. “Dragging Y/N into this conversation won’t change anything that happened at the Inferno Cup.”

“Her past with Mingi is a liability,” his mother retorted sharply. “Despite her family’s status as a breeding House, she remains a lowborn, and furthermore, a failed rider.”

“A failed rider?” Seonghwa could barely contain his fury. “If she was such a liability and a failure due to her injury, why did you ask her about combat maneuvers? She was reluctant to tell me more about the conversation because of the respect she held for you.”

Haerin blinked, momentarily at a loss for words. The intensity of Seonghwa’s outburst had clearly caught her off guard, and she struggled to regain her composure. Yet she remained stern as Seonghwa pressed on, his voice rising with each word.

“She came to my defense, risking her own safety without a second thought to fight Song Mingi and that monster dragon of his. She acted selflessly, and yet, it’s still not enough for you.”

Haerin opened her mouth to respond, but Seonghwa cut her off, his tone sharp. “What more does she have to do to prove herself? Y/N has shown nothing but loyalty and dedication to my team and all you see is her status and her past.”

Haerin has always prided herself on maintaining composure, even in the most challenging situations. But this confrontation with her son was different. It struck at the core of her values and the legacy she had worked so hard to protect.

After her husband’s untimely death, she had taken on the mantle of leadership until Seonghwa was named Lord on his 20th birthday. She had faced a number of challenges, stemming mostly from political intrigue, but she had always managed to steer the House through turbulent tides. 

“You are blinded by your emotions, Seonghwa. Think about perception, the reputation we’ve maintained—”

“If we’re discussing perception, Mother, how would you respond to those who doubt the leadership of their Lord?” Seonghwa retorted, his voice tinged with frustration. “I will not have others in that wretched hall questioning whether I am truly in charge or if you are still pulling the strings from behind the scenes.”

“I have only ever acted in the best interests of this House. My guidance has been essential in navigating the complexities of maintaining our power and reputation!” she shot back defensively, her voice rising. Her hurt and indignation filled her, a mother’s fierce protectiveness clashing with her son’s burgeoning independence.

“And I respect that,” Seonghwa replied, his tone firm but measured. “But your refusal to trust my decisions undermines my authority. I cannot let those vermin in the Assembly see a House divided, a leadership in conflict.” 

“You question my leadership?” Haerin gritted, her voice controlled but still filled with emotion.

“I question your inability to trust me,” Seonghwa replied, his voice steady and resolute. “I have proven my dedication to this House. Though not politically, I’ve established myself as an accomplished rider, securing alliances of my own with racing. If you cannot trust my judgment, then perhaps it is you who needs to reflect on your role.”

Haerin’s eyes widened as she rose to her feet, taking a step forward, her presence imposing. “I have always acted in the best interests of this House, Seonghwa. My decisions are not about control; they are about protection. How will you lead without my guidance? Without the connections I’ve brought to this House?”

Seonghwa stood his ground, his gaze unwavering. “I will choose the path befitting my title and my conscience,” he declared, his voice steady and resolute. “Like my father, that means with respect and compassion.”

Haerin’s jaw tightened, the muscles in her face tensing visibly. Her eyes locked onto Seonghwa but remained silent, her posture rigid and unmovable.

“If we are to move forward, we must present a united front,” Seonghwa continued, his voice steady. “That means trusting me to lead, even if you don’t agree with every decision I make. Otherwise, we risk everything we’ve built.”

Haerin’s buried her face in her hands for a moment, the weight of his words sinking in. “I only want what’s best for you, for this House,” she said, her voice softer. She looks back at the photograph on the desk, trying to recall a past life when things seemed simpler and more certain.

“As do I,” Seonghwa replied, filled with resolve. “But we must adapt and move forward together. The Great Houses no longer possess the same power they did a century ago. If we do not evolve, we will crumble from within.”

“What’s this about Kim Sangjoong demanding a parentage test!?” Lady Lee’s voice sliced through the air as she burst into Yeosang’s lab, her eyes wide with panic.

“Dr. Kang, you have a visitor,” Sumin announced, his voice reverberating through the dimly lit room, though it did little to halt the Council member’s determined stride.

Yeosang glanced up from the dragon limb he was meticulously dissecting, his gloved hands pausing mid-incision. His sharp, focused eyes flicked to Sumin briefly before locking onto the doorway where Lady Lee stood, visibly flustered and anxious.

“Thank you, Sumin.” The secretary bowed and exited as swiftly as he had appeared.

Yeosang straightened, snapping off his gloves with a sharp, decisive motion. “I would appreciate it if you refrained from visiting during my designated hours at the Institute, Lady Lee,” he said, his tone firm yet measured.

“But Kim Sangjoong—” Lady Lee began, her voice rising in pitch, a note of desperation creeping in.

“Kim Sangjoong is no threat,” Yeosang interrupted, his voice eerily calm and unyielding as he picked up a scalpel. He plunged the tool into the flesh of the limb with a sickening, deliberate squelch, blood coating his bare hands as a warning.

“Nor is Kim Sangjoong a fool! Someone must have tipped him off, and now he wants a DNA test on 809!” Lady Lee’s voice trembled.

“The use of hybrids in dragon racing is completely legal, Lady Lee,” Yeosang corrected, his irritation growing with her persistent blubbering. “Your incessant worrying is unnecessary. Everything is under control.”

“But if someone manages to obtain 809’s record and cross-references it with the test results, it could pose a significant threat to the Lab! The Lab’s credibility will be compromised, we could lose clients if they find out their pedigrees have been falsified!” she whispered the last word. 

“If I recall, I am not the one participating in illegal dragon trafficking and child exploitation,” Yeosang quipped, listing off the Lab’s insidious activities as he brandished a new set of scalpels. “I simply write the reports… and attempt to change the world,” he added, bringing the tool into the light. He examined his reflection in the polished blade before setting it down with a satisfied smirk.

“You will receive the report at the end of the week as instructed. Might I remind you to not let your emotions get the best of you, Lady Lee.”

Lady Lee’s composure cracked. “You presume much, Dr. Kang!” she hissed, her voice rising. “Remember, the world you seek to change is one I already control,” she snarled, voice dripping with venom.

Yeosang remained unfazed, his expression calm and almost bored as he met her furious gaze with a cool, detached stare. “And you, Lady Lee, should remember that one word from me, and your little empire of lies falls apart. So, let’s not pretend that your threats hold any weight.”

<< vii | twilight >>

a/n: when I catch you LA Day 2 Hwa, when I catch you 😩

taglist: @litolmochi @syubseokie @park-simphwa @szakias

away with the wind | vii

Pairing: dragonrider!Seonghwa x ex-dragonrider!Reader AU: dragon rider au | strangers -> lovers Summary: a spinal injury forces you to retire from dragon racing, and with it, the end of your engagement to Song Mingi. Park Seonghwa, a rising star in the world of dragon racing and heir to the prestigious House Park, seeks a new dragon after an unfortunate accident on the skyway. As the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Word Count: 6.8K Warnings: description of dragon anatomy, swearing, power saw and gore, mentions of attempted unaliving on someone

Fic Masterlist

Mingi, Age 14

“Hey, if I throw this egg into a volcano, do you think it’ll hatch?” you asked, poking the egg in your sling. Mingi chuckled, poking the egg alongside you. 

“You’ll never know unless you try. I heard Mount Hala is due for another explosion.”

“It has been 150 years,” you added with a sigh, resting your chin on the egg. “Have you decided on a breed yet?”

He hummed thoughtfully. “No, I’m not feeling any of the options that I’ve been presented with.”

“You can always borrow one of our dragons. I’m sure San’s family also has some out in Dune.”

“Your dragons are too…” he racked his brain, trying to find the word to describe your family’s brood of Dreamwoods. Delicate? Feminine?

“Your dragons are too… refined,” he teased. “I need something with a bit more edge, you know?”

You laughed, nudging him playfully. “Refined? That’s a polite way to put it. But seriously, you should consider it. Dreamwoods are pretty rider oriented.”

Mingi nodded, his expression turning serious. “I know. And I appreciate the offer. But I want to find a dragon that feels like it’s truly mine, one that I can bond with from the start.”

“I get it. The bond between a rider and their dragon is special. You’ll find the right one, I’m sure of it.” You smiled, understanding his sentiment. 

The courtyard was quiet, the usual hustle and bustle of the academy momentarily paused. The two of you sat on a stone bench, the egg nestled safely between you. The setting sun cast a warm glow over the grounds, creating a serene atmosphere that contrasted with the usual energy of the place.

“You’d let me know if you found the one, right?” you asked, your voice soft but earnest.

“Of course,” he replied, his eyes meeting yours with a promise of honesty and trust.

A comfortable silence settled between you, the kind that only close friends could share. After a moment, you broke it with a sigh. “Those girls in your anatomy class approached me again. They insist that we’re dating.”

Mingi raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk on his lips. “Is it really such a crime to fall asleep on my shoulder?”

“Yes, to your fangirls at least,” you teased, leaning your head on his shoulder for emphasis. “They might riot against me.”

He laughed, shaking his head. “Well, I guess I should be flattered. But honestly, they have nothing to worry about. You’re the only one who gets this privilege.”

“Lucky me,” you chuckled, lifting your head.

Mingi’s expression softened, his eyes reflecting a mix of affection and sincerity. “You are lucky. And so am I.” His words carried a deeper meaning, one that spoke of the unspoken connection you shared.

“Well, not so lucky that I’m stuck on cavern duty. Again. Sunmi has another date and promised she’d take the next shift,” you pouted, your lips forming a small frown. The thought of spending another long, lonely night in the caverns was far from appealing.

“Make sure you don’t get too bored down there,” he chuckled, earning a punch to his arm. 

Mingi was in the middle of a nap when your, specially designated ringtone, woke him up. He groggily reached for the device, blinking away the remnants of sleep as he launched the hologram.

“Y/N? What’s wrong?” he asked, concern evident in his voice as he rubbed his eyes and sat up, trying to focus on the screen.

“It’s…it’s a baby,” you said, holding up your newborn hatchling. The tiny dragon squirmed in your hands, its scales shimmering in the light. Its eyes, still adjusting to the world, blinked slowly as it nestled closer to you.

Mingi’s eyes widened with a mix of surprise and excitement. He leaned closer to the hologram, his face lighting up. “You mean it hatched? That’s incredible!”

“Yeah,” you sniffled, tears of joy welling up in your eyes. “She’s finally here.”

Mingi’s expression softened, a look of genuine happiness spreading across his face. “She’s beautiful, Y/N. Have you thought of a name yet?”

You nodded, wiping at your runny nose. “Cirrus.”

“Cirrus… that’s perfect. I’m happy for you,” he chuckled softly, the sound tinged with a hint of wistfulness.

“Come over! Please, you have to meet her!” 

Mingi wasted no time. He quickly threw on a jacket, his heart pounding with excitement. The journey to your family’s home felt longer than usual, his mind racing with thoughts of meeting the newborn hatchling. When he finally arrived, he barely had time to knock before you flung the door open, a wide smile on your face.

“Come in, come in!” you grabbed his hand, leading him inside. The warmth of your home enveloped him, and he could hear the soft cooing of the hatchling from the den. The tiny dragon was nestled comfortably in a pile of soft blankets, looking around curiously as you approached her with Mingi. 

“Here she is,” you said softly, picking up Cirrus and cradling her in your arms. “Mingi, meet Cirrus.”

“I guess since you have a dragon, you can start flying with her,” Mingi said with a grin, gently poking Cirrus’ snout as you offered her your shoulder. Cirrus blinked up at him, her tiny tongue flicking out as she sniffed his fingers before leaning into his touch, purring softly. 

“Give it a year,” you replied, stroking her delicate wings. “I’d squish her right now if I tried.”

Cirrus chirped, her bright eyes darting around as if she understood the conversation. “She’s going to be amazing,” Mingi said, his voice filled with certainty. “Just like her rider.”

“I’ll punch you,” you squeaked, your voice high-pitched with embarrassment as a blush crept onto your face. Your cheeks turned a rosy shade of pink, and you quickly looked away, trying to hide your flustered expression. 

Mingi watched you with Cirrus, a pang of envy twisting in his chest. He tried to mask it with a smile, but the feeling was hard to ignore. It wasn’t that he was picky, he wanted a dragon that could match his ambitions and soar to the heights he dreamed of. Seeing you with Cirrus, already so effortlessly bonded, made him yearn for that same connection.

Mingi, Age 15

“Come to Halazia with me.”

“Are you crazy?” Your eyes widened in disbelief. Mingi chuckled, shaking his head. 

“Not at all. The recruiter from Cromer Labs said he has a contact in Halazia who might have a dragon for me.”

“Really!? What kind?”

“A hybrid.”

You stared at him, trying to process the information. “Hybrid dragons? Like, between different breeds?”

“Exactly,” Mingi replied, his eyes sparkling with excitement. “They’re creating dragons with unique abilities. It’s the future of racing!”

Curiosity and fear churned in your stomach. While you adored Mingi and supported his desire to become an accomplished rider, your philosophies when it came to dragon breeding were the complete opposite. You valued the generations of dragons that had been carefully nurtured and respected the ancient traditions that guided their care. The notion of interfering with their natural evolution felt like a profound betrayal of your core beliefs.

Mingi, on the other hand, was captivated by the potential of hybrid dragons. He saw them as the future, a means to transcend the existing boundaries of what dragons could become. His enthusiasm was infectious, yet it also underscored the significant divide in your perspectives.

“Mingi, I don’t know,” you began, your voice tinted with uncertainty. “I mean Halazia is a two and a half hour train ride. What if something goes wrong?”

Mingi’s expression softened as he took a step closer, his hand reaching out to gently grasp yours. “I get that you’re worried, but think about the possibilities. These dragons could change racing, and bring something new to the sport. We could be part of something groundbreaking.”

“You mean you could be a part of something groundbreaking,” you said with a small smile. “I’m perfectly fine with Cirrus.” 

Mingi nodded, his expression serious. “I understand, and I respect that. But sometimes, to honor the past, we have to embrace the future. And I can’t pass up a Longhorn and Fury hybrid! So please?”

A knot of apprehension tightened in your stomach. The hybrid pairing was uncharted territory, and certainly intriguing, but it also carried uncertainties. Star Furies were an incredibly rare and protected species endemic to Mount Hala, whereas Longhorns were primarily used in war. You knew that combining the traits from both dragons could result in an unpredictable and volatile mix.

“Did the recruiter leave a card with you?”

“Yeah, he did.” Mingi dug into his pocket and pulled out a sleek, holographic card, handing it to you.

You turned the card over in your hands, the surface catching the light and reflecting a rainbow of colors. It felt cool and smooth, like dragon scales, shimmering with every move. It struck you as odd that there wasn’t a name on it, just a contact number and an address in Halazia. The mystery of it all made your heart race a little faster.

“Are you really thinking about this?” you asked, your voice a mix of excitement and worry. 

Mingi nodded, his eyes shining with determination. “I know it's risky, but this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance. The recruiter said that they’ll sponsor me after graduating if I commit to the organization. I’ll finally be able to have a dragon of my own.”

You looked into his eyes, seeing the determination and hope there. It was hard to resist his passion, his vision of what could be. “Alright,” you said slowly, “I’ll go with you to Halazia. But we take it one step at a time, and if it feels wrong, we come back.”

The train ride to Halazia was a journey filled with anticipation. You and Mingi had boarded the first train out of Aurora, eager to embark on his adventure with him. As you settled into your seats, you couldn’t help but notice the blend of old-world charm and cutting-edge technology that defined the train’s interior. Plush seats with intricate embroidery provided comfort, while large windows offered panoramic views of the passing landscapes.

Before boarding, you had made sure Cirrus was safely waiting close by the station, ready to fly to you at a moment’s notice. 

The train glided smoothly along the tracks, the scenery outside transformed from Aurora’s bustling cityscape to the serene countryside, with rolling hills, dotted with vibrant wildflowers, stretched out as far as the eye could see. The rhythmic clatter of the wheels on the tracks created a soothing backdrop, but despite the tranquility, a sense of unease lingered. Your mind kept drifting back to thoughts of danger, the anxiety gnawing at the edges of your consciousness, refusing to be completely drowned out by the peaceful surroundings.

As the train drew closer to Halazia, your fidgeting intensified, an unending feeling of dread filling you. The landscape began to change once more. Mount Hala loomed in the distance, its peak shrouded in mist, hinting at the wild, untamed beauty that awaited beyond Halazia’s neon lights and bustling markets. Mingi’s head rested on your shoulder, weary from a night spent in eager anticipation of acquiring a new dragon.

The bustling market of Halazia’s center was alive with vibrant colors and the hum of countless conversations. You and Mingi navigated through the crowd, the neon lights casting a surreal glow on the cobblestone streets. Still groggy from his sleepless night, held your hand tightly as he approached the pickup point.

You arrived at a quiet corner of the market, where a small booth selling exotic herbs stood. Behind the counter, a woman in a sleek, dark jacket and a wide-brimmed hat awaited. Her sharp, discerning eyes met yours as you approached. 

Mingi cleared his throat and squared his shoulders. “My heart is fierce, my spirit a race.” he said confidently. The vendor nodded and slipped behind the stall. You scanned your surroundings, identifying the clearest exit routes through the bustling crowd, just in case the meeting took an unexpected turn.

Moments later, the vendor reappeared, cradling a small bundle wrapped in a soft blanket. She gently unwrapped it to reveal a tiny dragon hatchling, its red scales amplified under the neon signs littering the main street. 

You watched as Mingi reached out to gently stroke the hatchling’s head. The hatchling responded with a soft, contented chirp, but you noticed a slight, almost imperceptible twitch of its tail. Its eyes, though curious, occasionally flickered with a hint of agitation, reflecting the neon lights in a way that seemed almost too intense. The vendor’s quick, almost nervous glances at the dragon and her hurried movements suggested that there might be more than she initially let on.

“He’s got a fire in his eyes,” Mingi cooed, reaching out to the hatchling. The hatchling’s grip was surprisingly strong, its tiny claws wrapping around Mingi’s finger with a determined hold. The dragon’s eyes, a vibrant shade of amber, reflected a fierce intelligence and spirit.

“The payment?” the vendor asked, her voice cutting through the moment. 

“Right.” Mingi handed the hatchling over to you as he completed the transaction. The dragon squirmed slightly in your arms, its scales warm to the touch. You could feel its tiny heart beating rapidly, a reminder of its fragile yet fierce nature. As you held him, you sensed an underlying restlessness in its movements, a subtle tension that hinted at a temperamental instability. 

Mingi, Age 19

Mingi and Ajax descended from the sky after another round of practicing flight patterns. The wind rushed past them, the exhilaration of flight still fresh in Mingi’s veins. Ajax folded his wings with a graceful sweep, the powerful muscles rippling under his crimson scales as Mingi climbed down from the saddle. 

The crimson dragon’s nose twitched, as if sensing a threat. His nostrils flared, and he let out a low, rumbling growl that reverberated through the ground beneath Mingi’s feet. The sound was deep and menacing, a clear warning. Mingi turned to see another dragon, an equally large, imposing creature with green scales, entering the training area with its rider, Hong Jisoo.

“Hey Mingi,” the elder waved. Mingi returned the nod, his eyes still focused on his dragon. 

“Easy,” he said, placing a calming hand on Ajax’s side. But his focus was entirely on the newcomer, his body coiled and ready to react. The other dragon let out defensive chuff, and Ajax responded with a growl, his wings flaring out in a display of dominance.

Mingi knew he had to act quickly to prevent a confrontation. “Ajax, focus,” he commanded, skillfully swinging himself back into the saddle. Ajax’s eyes flicked to Mingi, but the presence of the other dragon was too much. With a sudden burst of energy, he lunged forward, his claws digging into the ground as he prepared to attack. 

“Ajax, no!” Mingi shouted, pulling hard on the reins. But Ajax ignored him, his eyes locked on the green dragon. Mingi could feel the strain in his arms as he struggled to hold his dragon back, the strength overwhelming.

The dragon’s growls grew louder, his body trembling with the urge to fight. Mingi’s heart pounded in his chest, the realization hitting him hard: Ajax didn’t respect him. The bond they were supposed to share was fragile, and in moments like this, it felt almost nonexistent.

“Ajax almost got into it with Hong Jisoo’s dragon,” Mingi sighed, plopping down next to you on the bench. His shoulders slumped with exhaustion, and he ran a hand through his tousled hair. Your eyes widened in alarm, and you immediately grabbed hold of his shoulders, your grip firm and concerned.

“Is everything okay? How’s the other dragon? What are they gonna do with Ajax–” you blurted out, your words tumbling over each other in a rush of worry. Your mind raced with worst-case scenarios, and you could feel your heart pounding in your chest.

“It’s fine,” he reassured you, bringing your hands to his lips, pressing a gentle kiss to your knuckles. “Jisoo barely stepped out of the pit when Ajax went after them. He was able to turn back and close the gate before any damage could be done.”

“You do know that his father is a member of the Council.”

“Yeah, but unlike his father, Jisoo knows how unpredictable dragons can be, especially when they’re still getting used to their riders.”

But it’s been four years, you wanted to say. Fours years later and Ajax is still as defiant as ever, his unpredictability and stubbornness a constant challenge. You bit your lip, holding back the words, not wanting to add to Mingi’s stress. Instead, you squeezed his hands, offering him a comforting smile.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Statement from the Inferno Cup Organizing Committee

[AURORA, EMPIRE OF AURORA] – “The Inferno Cup Organizing Committee deeply regrets the abrupt cancellation of the Inferno Cup following an unexpected and unprecedented altercation that occurred during the event. Our primary concern remains the safety and well-being of all participants, spectators, and staff.

We are working closely with local authorities and experts to investigate the cause of the altercation and to implement measures that will prevent such occurrences in the future. The safety of our participants and spectators is our utmost priority.

The ICOC remains committed to the spirit of the competition and the community it fosters. We are exploring options for rescheduling the event and will provide updates as soon as they become available. Our goal is to ensure that the Inferno Cup can continue to be a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

We extend our gratitude to the keepers, security personnel, and staff who acted swiftly to manage the situation. We also thank our supporters and participants for their continued support and understanding.”

Yechan closed out of the article with a sigh, the screen dimming as he leaned back in his chair. The lab, normally a bustling hive filled with activity, was eerily quiet. The usual chatter of colleagues were absent, leaving an unsettling silence. He glanced at the clock on the wall, noting the time with a slight frown.

“Dr. Kang! You have a necropsy report due at the end of the week!” he called out to his boss, Dr. Kang Yeosang. Yechan, ever so practical, always kept track of schedules and ensured that the lab ran smoothly.

“Eh?” Yeosang looked genuinely surprised, his eyes widening behind his thick glasses. He was engrossed in his own world, muttering to himself as he examined a set of data on his tablet.

“The Council ordered it to be done before making a decision on Song Mingi’s investigation,” the assistant explained patiently, used to Dr. Kang’s forgetfulness. “Dragon 809.”

Yeosang’s quirky demeanor was well-known among his colleagues. Despite his airheadedness, his brilliance was undeniable. He had a habit of talking to himself, often lost in thought even in the midst of conversations.

“Oh, is it about our failed experiment? Shame,” Yeosang sighed, dragging his feet over to Ajax’s giant, severed head, playfully patting the snout. His lab coat was slightly askew, and his glasses perched precariously on the tip of his nose as he shuffled away from the examination table.

“Perhaps the Kuku’s intellect overstimulated the Longhorn,” his other assistant Minjae chimed in. “It explains his independent nature and inability to bond with his rider.”

“Yes, that’s a possibility,” Yeosang tapped his chin thoughtfully. “Although the Kuku component of 809’s DNA did show promise. He was able to mimic that Dreamwood’s movements with remarkable precision.”

He scratched his head, his hair sticking up in odd angles, a testament to the long hours he had spent in the lab. “I suppose we’ll have to move on to the next experiment. Again.” Yeosang let out a tired chuckle. “Perhaps next time we should consider neural compatibility more carefully. The synaptic responses of the Kuku might have been too advanced for the Longhorn’s neural pathways,” he mused aloud, Minjae already jotting down notes for the next iteration of their experiment.

“Ah, poor Mingi. All he wanted was a dragon,” Yeosang mused, slipping the gloves on with a snap. Donning a mask and face shield, he marveled at his creation—the culmination of years of genetic engineering. The large lab lights cast an eerie glow on Ajax’s lifeless form, highlighting the intricate details of his scales and the sheer size of his head.

The Nettled Kuku’s agility and intelligence had been merged with the Lunar Longhorn’s brute strength and resilience, resulting in a creature of unparalleled power and terror. He recalled the first successful fusion, the moment when Ajax had taken his first breath. It had been a moment of triumph, a vindication of his relentless pursuit of perfection. But the dragon was only one of many monsters born of Yeosang’s hubris.

Ajax’s eyes, now lifeless, were partially open, revealing the once vibrant amber that had held so much intelligence and fire. Yeosang approached with reverence and curiosity, his gloved hands steady as he prepared for the necropsy. The dragon’s massive jaws were slightly ajar, showcasing rows of razor-sharp teeth. His tongue, now still, lay limp against the lower jaw.

“Open wide, Ajax,” he sang, as he began to saw his way into the massive skull. The sound of the tool was jarring, but Yeosang’s steady hands and focused expression showed his expertise. The lab was filled with the scent of antiseptic and the quiet hum of machinery, a stark contrast to the vibrant life the Ajax once had.

The days following the abrupt end of the Inferno Cup were a whirlwind of media frenzy. Reporters were lined up outside of the training grounds, the House Park estate, and skyway, jostling for a position, microphones in hand, eager to capture the next big scoop.

The once vibrant grounds of the skyway now stood eerily silent. Training and events for all riders were postponed indefinitely as a safety precaution, leaving the usually bustling training grounds deserted.

Mingi found himself at the center of the storm, his every move documented by the press and scrutinized by the Council alike. He couldn’t step outside without being bombarded by questions, each one more probing than the last. The pressure was immense, but he maintained his defiant stance, refusing to show any sign of weakness, especially after the Council’s snap decision to put Ajax down. 

The keepers had neutralized Ajax, forcing him into submission as they corralled him into a containment unit. Mingi watched helplessly, his heart pounding in his chest. He could see the defiance in the dragon’s eyes, the way Ajax’s muscles tensed against the restraints, every sinew straining in a futile attempt to break free.

His eyes darted over towards you as Cirrus lowered a wing, creating a makeshift ramp for you. The scene was surreal, the contrast between the chaos of the altercation and the serene, almost gentle gesture of your dragon. He envied the bond you had with her—a bond forged through trust and mutual respect, a complete contrast from his partnership with Ajax. 

He watched as you ascended down from her wing, your movements fluid and confident, despite your life altering injury–a testament to the deep connection you shared with Cirrus. The dragon’s eyes followed you with unwavering loyalty, a silent promise of protection and companionship.

“Mingi, it’s over.” 

Your words echoed in his head. Your cheeks were flushed and breath coming in gasps as your body was reeling from the blows Cirrus had delivered to Ajax. He looked at you, pleading to reassure him that it wasn’t over. That everything he worked for was still within his grasp. 

“Mr. Song,” a keeper interjected, his tone grave and respectful.

Mingi turned, a frown creasing his brow. “What is it?”

The keeper hesitated for a moment, clearly uncomfortable with the message he had to deliver. “I regret to inform you that the Council has reached a decision regarding your dragon. They have determined that euthanasia is the only viable option.”

Mingi’s face paled, his eyes widening in shock and disbelief. The weight of the keeper’s words settled heavily in the air, a stark reminder of the harsh realities they all faced.

“Is there no other way?” he asked, his voice trembling with desperation.

The keeper shook his head solemnly. “I’m afraid not. It’s the only way to ensure the safety of everyone.”

The keeper bowed and returned to the crowd of other keepers preparing to transport Ajax to his death. Mingi watched them, his heart breaking with each step they took. While he occasionally regarded Ajax as a partner, the dragon primarily embodied his ambitions, serving as a means to achieve his goal of becoming a top dragon rider. Now, watching Ajax being led away, Mingi felt a profound sense of loss. It wasn’t just the dragon he was losing, but the dreams and aspirations that had driven him for so long.

The Council of Aurora served as the governing body entrusted with the oversight of the political and social welfare of dragon riders within the empire. Under the leadership of Chairman Jang, the Council was chiefly responsible for administering Aurora’s political matters, including the arbitration of disputes, the regulation of dragon care standards, and the promotion of the esteemed history and traditions of dragon riding. This mandate also encompassed the supervision of the rules and regulations governing dragon racing.

The fight had drawn significant attention, not only because of its ferocity but also due to the involvement of Park Seonghwa. With Seonghwa’s status, the Council was alarmed by the potential implications of such a powerful and unpredictable dragon, like Ajax, instigating the altercation and threatening Seonghwa’s life. Consequently, they initiated an investigation to ensure that all rules and regulations had been strictly adhered to.

“Thank you for coming today, Mr. Song.” Chairman Jang’s voice was calm, yet carried an undeniable authority.

Mingi stared coldly ahead, without a hint of emotion. His posture was rigid, his hands clenched into fists at his sides as he faced the Council. The room was grand, with high ceilings and walls adorned with tapestries depicting the rich history of dragon riding. 

Chairman Jang, a man of gentle demeanor but firm principles, leaned forward slightly. “I trust you are aware that your dragon caused quite a disturbance at the Inferno Cup?”

Mingi’s jaw tightened. “Yes.”

“The Council had the opportunity to review the footage and would like to ask for your account of the situation.” Jang’s tone was measured, seeking understanding rather than confrontation.

Mingi’s eyes flickered with frustration, but he took a deep breath and began. “I saw an opportunity to push Ajax to his limits, to see how he would handle the pressure. I provoked him intentionally.”

Lady Lee interjected, her voice sharp and cutting. “And you believe this justified your actions, Mr. Song? Provoking your dragon in such a public and dangerous setting?”

Mingi’s jaw tightened further, his teeth grinding together. “I didn’t plan for things to get out of hand. Lord Park’s reaction,” he stressed Seonghwa’s title with a hint of disdain, “was unexpected.”

“So you admit that your actions directly led to the confrontation?”

“I admit that my timing was off.”

“Your timing led to chaos, Mr. Song. You endangered not only yourself and your dragon but also the lives of others present at the race,” Lord Hong said, his expression stern and unyielding. The weight of his words hung heavily in the air, a reminder of the gravity of Mingi’s actions. “For the sake of experimenting with your dragon’s strength and fortitude?”

“Risks are necessary in our line of work, Lord Hong,” Mingi retorted, his eyes flashing with determination. “I assumed you of all people would know since your son is a rider himself.” His words were a calculated jab, meant to provoke a reaction.

Lord Hong’s eyes narrowed at Mingi’s audacity. He leaned back slightly in his seat, his fingers drumming on the armrest as he scowled. “Your confidence is commendable, Mr. Song, but overconfidence can be your downfall. Might I remind you that while you may be a skilled rider, you can be unseated by a single misstep. In your case, losing control of your dragon.” His voice was low and measured, each word a deliberate warning.

Chairman Jang sighed softly, his gaze steady but filled with disappointment. “Recklessness cannot be justified by the pursuit of strength.” 

Mingi’s shoulders tensed, but he remained silent, his eyes locked on the unimposing elderly man. “With all due respect, Chairman Jang, pushing boundaries is how we grow stronger as riders.”

“Your arrogance is astounding, Mr. Song!" Lady Lee shook her head, clearly exasperated. 

Lord Kim, who had been silent until now, leaned forward. “Mr. Song, what is your relation to Lord Park?”

Mingi’s expression hardened. “I consider Lord Park to be a rival.”

“And how did this rivalry come to be?”

Mingi thought for a moment before replying. “We were both competing in the Auroran Gran Prix. During the race, I saw an opening and made a bold move to gain an advantage. It was a risky maneuver, but he managed to recover.”

Lord Kim nodded thoughtfully. “So, it was a competitive encounter?”

Mingi nodded. “Yes, but it wasn’t personal. We both wanted to win, and that’s how racing goes.”

“And what of Lady L/N? She did try and intervene on Lord Park's behalf.”

Mingi froze when Lord Kim brought up your name. His feelings towards you were complicated. His eyes darkened, and his voice dropped to a whisper. “Lady L/N has nothing to do with this.”

“Answer the question, Mr. Song,” Lord Hong pressed. 

Mingi clenched his fists, struggling to maintain his composure. “My former fiancée and Park Seonghwa’s current trainer,” he finally admitted, his voice laced with bitterness. The words tasted like ash in his mouth, a painful reminder of what he had lost. 

When Mingi first learned that you had been hired by Park Seonghwa, he brushed it off, indifferent to the news. He convinced himself that it didn’t matter, that your decision was inconsequential to him. However, as time passed, the reality of your choice began to eat away at him. It wasn’t about wanting you back; it was about not wanting Seonghwa to have you. 

Lady Lee raised an eyebrow. “Are you indicating this altercation stemmed from a lover’s quarrel?”

Mingi’s eyes flashed with anger. “No. I assure you, Lady L/N had nothing to do with the fight. This matter is strictly between Lord Park and myself.”

“Personal entanglements are not relevant to the investigation, Lady Lee.” Chairman Jang cleared his throat, attempting to steer the conversation back to more pressing matters. “We need to look at the facts presented before us. How did you go about sourcing your dragon, Mr. Song?”

Mingi took a deep breath, grateful for the shift in focus. “I was approached by a recruiter from Cromer Labs. They came to the academy looking to sponsor a few riders for a scholarship. The recruiter was particularly interested in my performance during the trials and mentioned that they would provide riders with a dragon should they commit to the organization.”

“Commit, how?” Lord Hong asked, his eyebrows raised in mild curiosity.

“Commit to racing for the organization,” Mingi replied, his voice steady. “After graduating from the academy, Cromer Labs became one of my primary sponsors. With their support, I’ve been able to participate in high-profile races and competitions, as well has have access to a state of the art training facility.”

Lord Kim sat up, his interest clearly piqued. “What else can you tell us about Cromer Labs?”

“Their research is aimed at reducing the prevalence of inherited diseases in dragons,” Mingi replied, his tone measured and precise.

“Is that all?” Lord Kim pressed, his eyes narrowing slightly.

“Yes,” Mingi confirmed, maintaining eye contact.

The elder Kim nodded, signaling the end of his questioning. Despite his composed exterior, he felt uneasy, his mind racing with thoughts about the lab’s work. The implications of such research were vast, and he couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more to Cromer Labs than met the eye.

The room fell into a contemplative silence, the weight of the discussion hanging heavily in the air. Each member of the council seemed lost in their own thoughts. After a few moments, Lord Kim finally broke the silence. “I suggest ending today’s round of questioning,” he said, his voice steady but tinged with a hint of concern. “I have a number of other obligations to attend to. Shall we resume at a later date?”

The other council members nodded in agreement, their expressions serious. Chairman Jang nodded in agreement. “That sounds like a prudent course of action.”

As they began to gather their belongings, the atmosphere remained tense, heavy with the implications of what they had learned—or failed to learn—from their initial round of questioning. As Mingi exited the chambers, he felt a wave of relief wash over him, grateful that his pride remained intact.

The doors creaked open, and he stepped out of the council room, his eyes meeting yours. You stood there with your arms crossed, heart pounding as you prepared to confront him. You could see the weariness of the last few days etched on Mingi’s face.

You took a deep breath, trying to steady yourself. “A friend of a friend said you’d be here.” You glanced behind Mingi toward the grand council room.

He scoffed, a bitter smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “Park Seonghwa’s got you spying on me now?” His tone was accusatory, but there was a hint of hurt in his eyes.

“He doesn’t even know you’re here today,” you replied, your voice firm and unwavering. You took a step closer, closing the distance between you. The air between you was thick with tension. “I came because I wanted to talk.”

In the days following the fight with Ajax, uneasiness consumed you as the confrontation replayed in your mind. But you didn't have to what drove him to such extremes—you already knew. To find clarity in the chaos he created, you knew you needed closure from Mingi.

Mingi sighed deeply, rubbing his temples as if trying to ward off a headache. “I don’t think there’s anything to talk about,” he muttered.

“I want to know the truth.” Your words were sharp, cutting through the silence like a knife. You could see the conflict in his eyes, the way he struggled to maintain his composure.

He glanced around the room, before finally meeting your gaze. “Let’s go somewhere more private. Please.” His voice was softer now, almost pleading, and you could see the cracks in his exterior beginning to show.

You followed him outside. The late afternoon air was cool, a stark contrast to the stuffy corridors of the Courthouse. The courtyard was quiet, a small oasis of calm amidst the bustling city.

Mingi leaned against the stone wall, his posture tense. He studied you, his eyes searching for any sign of deceit or hidden motives. “You’ve changed,” he finally said.

He observed the way you stood, the determination in your eyes, and the strength in your stance that hadn’t been there before. It was as if the challenges you faced during your recovery had forged a new version of you, one that was both familiar and foreign to him.

“We’ve both changed,” you corrected. He looked away, his gaze drifting to the ground, as if the weight of his actions was too much to bear. “Why’d you do it?” you finally asked.

“I don’t know,” he muttered.

“You do know, Mingi,” you replied, your tone filled with disappointment. “You knew exactly what you were doing by going after Seonghwa.”

Your words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of the consequences of his actions. Mingi’s eyes hardened. “You don’t understand,” he said, his voice trembling. “I had to prove myself, to show that I could be just as good, if not better.”

“Don’t lie to me. You weren’t out there trying to prove yourself,” you said, your voice breaking.

Mingi’s defiance wavered, his shoulders slumping as the reality of his actions weighed heavily on him. He took a deep breath, his eyes meeting yours filled with desperation and vulnerability.

“I didn't want to lose you to him,” he confessed, his voice barely audible, filled with a raw honesty.

You were at a loss for words, the weight of his confession hitting you like a wave. You chuckled darkly, wanting to lash out at him for his pathetic excuse.

“You didn’t want to lose me?” you chuckled bitterly. “Stop with the excuses Mingi, you cheated on me.”

“I know I don’t have the right to feel hurt because I cheated on you but when I saw you him I just–” he began, his voice pleading.

“No. The truth is that you didn’t want to be with someone broken,” you spat bitterly, your words laced with pain and anger. You noticed the corner of his lip twitch, a signal that there was truth to what you had said.

"You, an S-class rider, at the top of your game, didn't want to be with someone who could have been disabled the rest of her life! Because it would've been horrible for your reputation."

Mingi’s eyes widened at your words, the silence between you was deafening, each second seeming more like an eternity. He thought about saying something, denying your claim, but ultimately decided it wasn’t worth the effort. 

“You are selfish and reckless, blinded by your own ambitions. You’re jealous and insecure and have no problem sabotaging others to get what you want. And that means taking out Park Seonghwa.”

“You’d choose him over me?” he glowered, his eyes narrowing. He clenched his jaw tightly, the muscles in his face twitching with barely contained fury. "The same way you took his side and attacked me as well?"

Your jaw dropped. You were flabbergasted, at a complete loss for words at Mingi’s audacity. “Choose him over you? Oh, please. Don’t flatter yourself. This isn’t about picking sides. This is about your murder attempt.”

Mingi looked away, unable to meet your gaze. His silence only fueled your frustration and confirmed your suspicions. You could see the gears turning in his head, desperately trying to find a way out, but there was none. 

“You’ve always known Ajax was a monster. You knew he’d lose control, and you let it happen, because it'd be easier to put the blame on your unstable dragon than to admit you were deliberately trying to kill Seonghwa.”

In that moment, Mingi understood that he had been caught, and there was no escaping the consequences of his actions. His whispered admission, “They put him down,” was a hollow echo of the remorse he should have felt, a final acknowledgment of the truth he could no longer deny. 

Your expression softened for a moment, pitying him. “I know,” you said, your voice laced with cold satisfaction. The words were a bitter acknowledgment of the justice that had been served. Pity the murder weapon had been tossed out, you thought. 

Mingi’s shoulders slumped further, his eyes filled with resignation. The realization that he had lost everything—his dragon and his ambitions—was a heavy burden to bear. 

“I never wanted it to get this far,” he murmured, but you were already turning away, unwilling to listen to his excuses. “I never wanted this to happen, Y/N. I admit I was wrong and wanted to prove myself, but I let my ego get the best of me–” His voice cracked, desperation seeping into his tone, hoping to grasp at any remaining sympathy you might have for him.

You shook your head. “You made choices that hurt everyone around you, Mingi.” The finality in your voice was like a door slamming shut, leaving no room for return.

Without another glance, you walked away, each step feeling lighter as you left him to grapple with the mess he had created.  The weight of unresolved tension lifted from your shoulders, replaced by a newfound sense of freedom and closure from your past.

Mingi stood frozen, his world crumbling around him. The realization that he was truly alone, left to face the consequences of his actions, was a heavy blow. 

<< vi | viii >>

taglist: @litolmochi @syubseokie @park-simphwa @szakias

away with the wind | vi

Pairing: dragonrider!Seonghwa x ex-dragonrider!Reader AU: dragon rider au | strangers -> lovers Summary: A spinal injury forces you to retire from dragon racing, and with it, the end of your engagement to Song Mingi. Park Seonghwa, a rising star in the world of dragon racing and heir to the prestigious House Park, seeks a new dragon after an unfortunate accident on the skyway. As the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Word Count: 4.8K Warnings: dragon on dragon violence, depictions of flesh and bone, not proofread

Fic Masterlist

The morning of the race had finally arrived, and your house buzzed with chaotic energy. You scrambled to gather all your belongings for the skyway, while Sohee trailed behind, voicing her frustration about not being able to join you.

“I want to go too!” she exclaimed.

You sighed, trying to balance the chaos. “I know, Sohee, but it’s a busy day for everyone, including Yunho. Maybe next time, okay?”

Sohee pouted, crossing her arms. “Everyone is always busy!”

You knelt down to her level, giving her a reassuring smile. “I promise, you can come to the next training session. But today, I need you to do a big job for me.”

Her eyes lit up a bit at the idea. “What is it?”

“I need you to cheer on Mr. Seonghwa. He has a really tough race ahead of him and we all need to make sure he wins. Can you do that for me?”

“Yes ma’am!” she confirmed, giving you a quick hug. 

“Now, can you help me make sure I have everything I need?” She nodded eagerly, her earlier frustration melting away. “Okay!”

With Sohee’s help, you managed to gather your things more quickly, feeling a bit more prepared for the day ahead.

“Wait, don’t forget this!” she called out, handing you a colorful drawing. In the picture, you stood proudly next to Cirrus, with Yunho surrounded by holographic monitors. Sohee had depicted herself riding Outlaw, with Burrow soaring beside them, and Seonghwa mounted on Starshine, surrounded by sparkles.

“Can you show this to Mr. Seonghwa? Tell him it’s a good luck charm!” she pouted, bashfully, refusing to admit her fondness for the rider. 

You chuckled, ruffling her hair. “Sure thing.”

“Wait! I need to add something!” she exclaimed, padding to the kitchen to grab a marker from the drawer. 

Seonghwa’s mood was sour. He had been distant ever since your argument a week ago, and the tension between you was still palpable. He was all smiles during the ceremony, waving to the crowd, his charm and charisma on full display as he stood beside Starshine. She preened under the adoration of the spotlight, waving her tail as if she were addressing the crowd. As you watched him interact with the fans and the other riders, you couldn’t help but feel a mix of admiration and resentment. Admiration for his ability to captivate the crowd and resentment for the distance that had grown between you. 

You had been present for all of the training sessions after the argument leading up to the day of the race, but relied heavily on Yunho as a mediator. You’d lay out all of the instructions for him to relay to Seonghwa while you observed on the monitor, refusing to speak directly to him. Seonghwa, equally stubborn, would only respond to Yunho. 

Yunho’s attempts to mediate were admirable, but the underlying tension was hard to ignore. The constant back-and-forth was draining, and there were moments when he felt overwhelmed by the responsibility. Yet, his natural inclination to help and support his friends kept him going.

You watched from the sidelines as the opening ceremony was in full swing. The grounds were packed with roaring fans, their cheers echoing through the air. Banners and flags waved in a sea of colors, representing the various riders and their loyal supporters. The smell of food from the vendors mingled with the scent of dragon scales and the faint whiff of smoke, charging the air with anticipation. As expected of Park Haerin, you thought. 

Once Seonghwa returned to the dragon pit, the facade dropped. He sat in silence, brooding as Yunho flitted around performing last minute checks on his gear. Sensing his distress, Starshine bumped her nose against his chest, her eyes full of concern. Lost in his own world he looked away, leaving her to retreat with a soft rumble, her wings drooping in disappointment. 

She noticed a sheet of paper tucked underneath Seonghwa’s bag. She approached it cautiously, her nostrils flaring as she sniffed it. The scent was faint but unmistakable, a blend of yours and Sohee’s. Her tail began to wag, a sign of recognition and excitement.

Using her snout to nudge the paper free from its hiding place, she carefully pulled it out and laid it on the ground. The drawing, slightly crumpled but still vibrant, captured Sohee’s joy in the composition, colors, and attention to detail.  

Starshine turned her head towards Seonghwa, hoping the sight of Sohee’s gift might lift his spirits. The dragon’s gentle rumble filled the pit, a soft call to her rider, urging him to notice the artwork she had found.

Seonghwa, still lost in his thoughts, finally glanced in Starshine’s direction. His eyes fell upon the drawing, and for a moment, his brooding expression softened. He reached out, picking up the paper and gently tracing the lines of the drawing.

“GOOD LUCK MR. SEONGHWA. FROM: SOHEE”

Her handwriting was scrawled out in large, enthusiastic letters. A small, bittersweet smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he admired Sohee’s handiwork. Starshine watched intently, her tail swishing with anticipation. She could sense a shift in Seonghwa’s mood, a glimmer of light breaking through the clouds of his mind.

“Hey,” Yunho poked his head through the door. “It’s almost time.” 

“Yeah,” Seonghwa said quietly.

Yunho walked over and looked at the artwork, a soft chuckle escaping his lips. “Sohee’s really got a knack for this, doesn’t she?”

“She does.” With a final glance at Sohee’s drawing, Seonghwa tucked it safely into his gear. He stood up, his posture more resolute, and gave Starshine a gentle pat. “Let’s go, girl.” 

Yunho smiled, stepping aside to let Seonghwa and Starshine pass. He was hopeful that your olive branch would be the first step towards reconciliation with his friend. “You’ve got this,” he said, his voice filled with unwavering confidence. 

You, on the other hand, remained outside on the sidelines with numerous monitors floating in front of you, each displaying vital statistics and real-time data. Your fingers hovered anxiously over the transparent buttons, ensuring everything was in order.

As Seonghwa and Starshine emerged from the pit, you could see the tension in his shoulders ease slightly. Her powerful muscles rippled under her shimmering scales as she prepared for take off. The crowd’s roar grew louder fueling the energy of the skyway. Each second felt like an eternity, the anticipation almost unbearable. As Seonghwa passed by, he hesitated, his eyes searching for yours. There was a flicker of something unspoken in his gaze, a longing that mirrored your own.

As the countdown timer ticked closer to zero, you took a deep breath, steadying yourself. The riders were in position, the energy in the air electric with anticipation. You glanced one last time at Seonghwa, silently wishing him luck. You turned back to your holograms, your heart pounding in sync with the countdown timer as riders took their place. 

With a final, lingering look, Seonghwa turned his attention to the sky, his determination evident. The countdown reached its final moments, and the riders were off with a thunderous roar. With a powerful leap, Starshine took to the air, her wings beating rhythmically as they soared into the sky. The crowd erupted in cheers, the roar echoing through the arena.

The sky was a chaotic blend of colors and sounds as the dragons jostled for first position. Seonghwa leaned forward, urging Starshine on, his eyes fixed on the path ahead. Her wings cut through the air with precision and grace, twisting and turning with her sharpened tail to reduce the drag and build momentum. The wind whipped past them, carrying the roars and cheers of the crowd below. Seonghwa could feel the heat of the other dragons’ flames behind him, but remained undeterred. 

As the riders approached the first checkpoint, the tension in the air was undeniable. The checkpoint was marked by a series of floating, combustible rings. Each rider had to navigate their dragon through these rings to continue the race, but the rings were unpredictable, shifting positions and occasionally bursting into flames, adding an extra layer of danger.

As Seonghwa and Starshine approached the first ring, it suddenly shifted to the left, forcing them to make a sharp turn. Starshine’s wings flapped powerfully, and they narrowly avoided the burst of flames that erupted from the ring’s center. The crowd watching from the sidelines gasped in awe and fear, their sounds mingling with the roar of the dragons.

Yunho watched as Seonghwa pushed Starshine harder than usual, demanding more speed and agility without considering the strain it placed on her this early in the race. The crowd, sensing the tension, watched with bated breath. Seonghwa’s usual confidence was replaced by a visible strain, and it was clear that his mood was affecting not just his performance, but also Starshine’s.

“Seonghwa, you need to relax more,” Yunho’s voice crackled through the comms, filled with concern. “Starshine’s vitals are showing some strain.”

“She’s fine,” he reassured, though his voice lacked its usual confidence. Yunho, watching next to you, threw his hands into the air in frustration.

“Seonghwa, listen to me,” you insisted, your tone urgent. “If you keep pushing her like this, she might not make it through the canyons. You need to ease up and find your rhythm again.”

Seonghwa clenched his jaw, feeling a surge of irritation. He knew you were right, but his pride wouldn’t let him admit it easily. Torn between his determination to win and his concern for Starshine, he took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing thoughts.

“Seonghwa,” Yunho warned, his voice weary from playing mediator.

“Alright, I’ll try,” he finally conceded, his grip on the reins loosening slightly. He could feel Starshine respond to his change in demeanor, her movements becoming a bit more fluid despite her exhaustion. Seonghwa’s irritation lingered, but he knew he had to put it aside for Starshine’s sake.

One by one, the riders navigated the course, each encounter more harrowing than the last, some riders less fortunate than others. Flames singed wings and tails, and the unpredictable shifts of the rings caused several near-misses. Upon clearing the second ring, they could see the third and final ring ahead. This one was the largest and most erratic, its flames dancing wildly in all directions.

“Focus, just focus,” he told himself. With a powerful surge, Starshine propelled them forward, her wings beating with incredible strength. Just as it seemed they would be engulfed by the flames, Seonghwa guided her into a barrel roll spiraling through the ring. The crowd erupted in cheers, their excitement palpable.

“YES!” You and Yunho cheered from your position on the ground, your voices blending with the roar of the crowd. Relief washed over you as Seonghwa made it out of the first checkpoint, now heading towards the second leg of the race. 

As they emerged from the pass, the race intensified. The next section of the course was a series of sharp turns and steep dives, designed to test the riders’ control and the dragons’ maneuverability. Seonghwa leaned forward, urging Starshine to pick up speed. The wind whipped past them, and the ground below became a blur. 

The first sharp turn approached rapidly, a narrow gap between two jagged rock formations. Seonghwa tightened his grip, his body moving in perfect harmony with Starshine’s. With a swift, graceful motion, they banked hard to the left, narrowly avoiding the rocky outcrop. 

Watching from the sidelines, your heart pounded with anxiety. This section of the course was where you had your wings taken from you when you broke your back. You clenched your fists, forcing yourself to focus on the present. 

Seonghwa and Starshine were doing everything right, their movements controlled. But the sight of the sharp turns and steep dives brought back a flood of emotions. You could almost feel the wind rushing past you, the ground coming up too fast, the sickening crunch as you hit the rocks, the ringing in your ears. 

“Y/N, are you okay?” Yunho asked, his voice filled with concern. “Do you need a break?”

You shook yourself out of your reverie, forcing a smile. “No, I’m fine.”

He placed a reassuring hand on your shoulder. “I know this part of the course is tough for you. But look at them,” he said, nodding towards Seonghwa and Starshine on the screen. “They’re handling it perfectly. You trained them well.”

You took a deep breath, trying to steady your nerves. “I know. It’s just hard to watch sometimes.”

Yunho squeezed your shoulder gently. “Trust in what you’ve taught them.”

You nodded, turning your attention back to the monitors. Seonghwa and Starshine were approaching the end of the second checkpoint, their movements precise and controlled. 

Starshine’s powerful wings folded in close to her body, streamlining their descent. The canyon walls seemed to close in around them, the path ahead filled with sharp turns and narrow passages. Seonghwa’s heart pounded in his chest, the thrill of the dive coursing through his veins. At the last possible moment, she unfurled her wings, pulling them out of the dive with a breathtaking swoop.

You followed the dot on the screen, quickly closing in on Seonghwa and Starshine. You zoom in on the hologram and see Ajax in hot pursuit. 

“On your six!” you called through the comms.

Seonghwa could see Mingi and Ajax out of the corner of his eye, matching their pace stride for stride. Seonghwa urged Starshine to push harder, her muscles straining as they surged forward. The next series of turns came fast and furious, each one testing their reflexes and coordination. Seonghwa and Starshine moved as one, their bond evident in every fluid motion.

The erratic flight path was causing Ajax to drift dangerously close to Starshine. Seonghwa, noticing the impending collision, tried to maneuver Starshine away, but Ajax’s unpredictable movements made it difficult. The dragon’s tail whipped around, narrowly missing Starshine’s flank, and his wings beat with a desperate, uncontrolled rhythm.

You noticed that something was off about Ajax’s movements. They were intentional. The dragon’s powerful wings continued to beat erratically, each stroke a testament to his raw, untamed power. It was clear that something more sinister was at play.

“Something’s wrong with Ajax,” you said through the comms, your voice steady to not worry the other competitors and race organizers. 

Yunho tapped the hologram, producing another screen with a close-up of Ajax, a crazed look in his eyes. Mingi’s expression mirrored his dragon’s, a sinister grin spreading across his face as he directed Ajax with ruthless precision.

“They’re not just trying to win,” Yunho said, his voice tight with anger. “He’s out for blood.”

Ajax’s movements were aggressive and calculated. He lunged at Starshine with his claws extended, aiming for her wings to cripple her flight. Each swipe was intended to inflict maximum damage, not just to win the race but to ensure Starshine couldn’t continue.

Mingi’s commands were sharp and relentless and Ajax obeyed, his eyes glowing with a malevolent intensity. He unleashed a torrent of flames, this time aiming directly at Seonghwa. The heat was unbearable, forcing Starshine to shield her rider as Seonghwa struggled to steer them both into a dive.

Starshine twisted in mid-air, narrowly avoiding the flames, but Ajax was relentless. He followed them into the dive, snapping at Starshine’s tail with his powerful jaws. The crowd below gasped in horror as they realized the true danger of the situation.

“Mingi’s lost it,” Yunho muttered, his eyes never leaving the screen. “He’s not going to stop until Seonghwa and Starshine are down.”

Ajax’s next attack was even more vicious. He aimed for Starshine’s underbelly, a vulnerable spot that could cause serious injury. Starshine managed to roll out of the way just in time, but the close call left her and Seonghwa shaken.

“Seonghwa, you have to pull out of there, Mingi is purposely trying to drive you into a corner,” your voice crackled. 

Without looking back, Seonghwa urged Starshine further into the open sky stretching out before him. Ajax lunged forward, his jaws snapping dangerously close to Starshine’s neck. Seonghwa pulled hard on the reins, trying to steer Starshine away, but Ajax was relentless. The two dragons twisted and turned in a deadly aerial combat, circling in the sky. 

The crowd below watched in stunned silence, their eyes glued to the fierce battle unfolding above the ground. The other competitors kept their distance, aware of the danger posed by Ajax’s unpredictable aggression. Mingi’s face was set in a grimace of concentration, his knuckles white, driving Ajax to continue his assault. 

Seonghwa’s evasive maneuver brought them dangerously close to the crowd below. The spectators gasped and scattered, their cheers turning to cries of alarm. He could feel the heat of Ajax’s flames licking at Starshine’s tail, the acrid smell of burning filling the air.

“What is going on here!?” Haerin shouted, joining you and Yunho on the sidelines. 

“It’s a full on assault,” you said, without taking your eyes off the monitor. 

“We have to evacuate the premises,” Yunho said, turning to Haerin. “The keepers are on their way to neutralize the situation but Ajax is too dangerous."

Haerin nodded, her face pale but determined. “I’ll coordinate the evacuation. You two keep an eye on Seonghwa and Starshine. Make sure they stay safe.”

As Haerin rushed off to execute the evacuation plan, you and Yunho turned your attention back to the monitor. The screen showed Starshine and Ajax engaged in a deadly dance, their movements a blur of wings and claws.

The two dragons collided, their wings tangling for a brief, heart-stopping moment. The impact sent both dragons spiraling. Spectators screamed and began to flee, the once festive atmosphere turning chaotic. Your heart pounded as you watched Seonghwa struggle to regain control of Starshine, who was now locked in a deadly battle with Ajax.

Starshine retaliated with a powerful swipe, her claws grazing Ajax’s side. He snarled in pain but didn’t back down. Instead, he seemed to grow even more enraged, his eyes glowing with a fury. He unleashed another barrage of flames, forcing Starshine to dive and roll to avoid the searing heat. 

“He needs backup,” you muttered, your voice barely audible over the roar of the flames and the beating of wings.

“It’s too dangerous!” Yunho exclaimed, his eyes wide with fear as he watched the battle unfold from the sidelines. 

“Seonghwa won’t be able to fight Ajax on his own,” you insisted, your voice firm despite the chaos. “I have to buy him time until the keepers get there.”

Without waiting for another word, you whistled for Cirrus. She responded instantly, her sleek form emerging from the shadows as you bounded on to her back. Cirrus’s wings beat against the air, propelling you upwards with incredible speed. The wind whipped past your face, as the ground below quickly became a blur as you ascended, the panic of the crowd fading into the distance.

Ahead, you could see the battle raging between Seonghwa and Ajax. Starshine was dodging Ajax’s relentless attacks, but it was clear she was tiring. Seonghwa’s face was set in grim determination, his focus unwavering despite the danger.

Mingi, with a fierce determination in his eyes, commanded Ajax to unleash another devastating flurry of flames. The inferno roared to life, its searing heat and blinding light creating a formidable barrier. Seonghwa and Starshine, caught off guard, found themselves with no opportunity to counterattack or escape.

Using the flames as cover, you surged through the inferno with Cirrus’ claws outstretched, aiming directly at Ajax. Emerging from the fire, she struck with precision, her claws swiping Ajax across the face and catching him completely off guard. His screech echoed through the sky, a sound of pure fury. Quickly regaining his composure, Ajax’s eyes burned with renewed rage, the intensity of his glare promising a fierce retaliation.

Mingi, sensing the shift in momentum, barked out another command. “Ajax, focus!” he ordered, his voice cutting through the chaos. Mingi’s grip tightened on the reins, his knuckles white with tension. But the dragon didn’t relent, ignoring his rider’s orders. 

This wasn’t the first time Ajax had defied him. The bond between dragon and rider had always been tenuous, a fragile alliance forged out of necessity rather than trust. Ajax’s unstable nature was the root of his inability to fully accept Mingi as his rider. Ever since he was a hatchling, Ajax's natural instincts to dominate clashed with the idea of submitting to a human. His fierce independence made him resistant to any form of control, despite Mingi’s best efforts. 

Cirrus, undeterred by Ajax’s roar, circled back for another strike. Ajax illuminated the sky with a series of fiery blasts, each one aimed at you with deadly precision. You and Cirrus dodged and weaved through the onslaught, the intense heat singeing her wings

Ajax, momentarily distracted by Cirrus, left an opening for Starshine. Seonghwa seized the opportunity, diving towards the dragon’s vulnerable underbelly. Starshine’s claws raked across his scales, eliciting a pained bellow from the mighty beast. 

Mingi gritted through clenched teeth as Cirrus clamped down onto Ajax’s wing, a sickening crunch following the impact of jaws against flesh and bone. Ajax let out a blood curdling roar, swinging his body wildly in an attempt to shake her off. 

“The keepers are almost here!” you shouted to Seonghwa, struggling to control Cirrus as Ajax thrashed violently in her jaws. Mingi’s eyes blazed with a mix of fury and desperation, each of Ajax’s agonized shrieks tearing at his heart. His mind raced, torn between his ambition and the reality of the situation. 

“Starshine, now!” 

Without missing a beat, Starshine soared high into the sky, her wings beating furiously as she gained altitude. With a fierce cry, she tucked her wings and dove straight down, aiming directly at Ajax. Starshine’s dive hit with devastating force, her claws digging into the flesh on his back, sending him reeling. The impact was enough to knock the wind out of him, and he staggered, struggling to stay upright, with Mingi holding tightly onto the saddle. 

“Lord Park!” a keeper called out. A group of keepers with neutralizing spears surrounded Ajax, pointing them at him. They moved in cautiously but decisively, their eyes locked on the crimson dragon as one of the keepers aimed a lance at one of Ajax’s hind legs. 

Ajax snarled, but his movements were sluggish, his strength waning as the keepers applied specialized restraints to his limbs, preventing him from using his claws, tail, or jaws to attack. The restraints clicked into place, with the assistance of the spears, holding firm against any attempt to break free.

“Mingi, it’s over,” you said, your breath ragged. He looked at you with pleading eyes, searching for reassurance but you couldn’t offer him any. What you meant was that it was over. His career, the end of Ajax’s terror on the skyway, everything. 

In a twisted way, engaging in combat with Ajax was your way of finally letting Mingi go. The man you once knew was gone, replaced by someone driven by ambition and recklessness. 

You slid off Cirrus, the rush of adrenaline masking the excruciating pain coursing through your body. She nudged you gently with her snout, her eyes filled with concern as she sensed your discomfort. A soft rumble emanated from her throat, and you could feel the warmth of her breath against your skin as you leaned on her for support. The ground beneath your feet felt unsteady, and every step sent a jolt of agony through your limbs.

Seonghwa stood nearby as Yunho was debriefing with the keepers, who were busy corralling Ajax into a secure containment unit. The air was thick with tension, the keepers’ voices low and urgent as they worked to subdue the agitated dragon. 

Seonghwa stepped forward, his eyes filled with concern. “Are you alright?” he asked softly. You meet his gaze for what seemed like the first time in weeks. 

You nodded, “I will be,” you replied. The words felt inadequate, but they were all you could manage, straightening out your back. The silence that followed was thick with unspoken words and lingering tension. For a moment, neither of you spoke, the silence enveloping you both awkwardly. You could see the worry etched into his features,

“I–” you both began simultaneously, then stopped, a small, awkward laugh escaping your lips.

“No, you first,” you offered sheepishly. 

“I wanted to thank you for coming to the rescue,” Seonghwa said, his voice soft and a bit hesitant. “I don’t think we could’ve held off Ajax on our own.”

“Your combat training really paid off,” you commented, your eyes lighting up with genuine admiration. “Didn’t I tell you that a Dreamwood would beat Song Mingi?” 

Seonghwa smiled, looking a bit bashful. “I’m not sure I actually beat him, considering the race was called off,” he admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. “But I didn’t realize how vicious Cirrus could be. She did try to rip off his wing with her jaws. It was like watching a force of nature in action.”

He glanced over at Cirrus, who was now resting peacefully, her fierce demeanor replaced by a calm, protective presence. “By the way,” he said, fishing out the folded drawing from his pocket. Your eyes widened in surprise as he carefully unfolded it. “Thank Sohee for me.”

He held up the drawing your niece had given you that morning, the colors still vibrant despite everything that had happened. It was a small miracle that it had survived the chaos unscathed.

“She was adamant that I give it to you,” you said with a small smile, feeling a rush of affection for the little artist. “I’m surprised it stayed intact after all that chaos.”

Seonghwa’s gaze softened as he looked at the drawing, then back at you. “I’ll consider it a good luck charm.”

“That’s exactly what she said this morning,” you chuckled, recalling your conversation with her. Seonghwa nodded, his smile growing.

“She knows how to pick her charms.”

There was a brief, comfortable silence before you spoke again. “I wanted to apologize,” you said suddenly. “I didn’t mean to call you a coward. I was out of line and–”

“No, I’m sorry,” he interrupted. “You were right. I was unfair for lashing out at you. I’ve let my own insecurities and frustrations cloud my judgment, and hurt you in the process. I’m truly sorry, Y/N.”

His words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of his remorse. You could see the sincerity in his eyes, the raw emotion that he rarely let show. You nodded, accepting his apology with a small smile. 

“I can only assume this is a step toward reconciliation, your grace.”

“I told you to call me Seonghwa,” he reminded you, his voice soft. The formality of your words stung, a reminder of the distance that he had put between you.

You took a deep breath, trying to bridge the gap that had formed. “Speaking of reconciliation,” you began, shifting the topic, “what did the keepers say about Ajax?”

Seonghwa sighed, the weight of the situation evident in his expression. “They’re going to put him down and perform a necropsy to see if he had any underlying issues contributing to his unpredictability. He’s too much of a threat.”

“I wonder if Dr. Kang will be performing the necropsy. He’s experienced in dealing with creatures like Ajax,” you mused. “He might be able to find out if there was something more going on with him. Maybe we’ll finally discover his true parentage.”

Seonghwa chuckled at the idea, a warm, nostalgic sound. “That’s how we got close in the first place, remember? Poring over records and trying to piece together the puzzle.”

You smiled, the memory bringing a bittersweet warmth to your heart. “Yeah, those were good times. It’s strange to think how much has changed since then.”

Seonghwa’s expression grew more serious. “Will you be returning to the Institute?”

“I suppose since the six-month training period is over, I should return to my post,” you hummed thoughtfully. Seonghwa didn’t want that. He wanted you to stay, to be close again, but the words caught in his throat.

He took a deep breath, trying to steady his voice. “I admit I’ve grown used to your training style,” he admitted, his eyes searching yours for any sign that you felt the same.

You looked at him, the longing in his eyes mirroring your own. “I’ll miss being here,” you said softly. “It’s been… nice, despite everything.”

Seonghwa’s heart ached at the thought of you leaving. “Maybe you don’t have to go right away,” he suggested, hopeful. “I…We could use your expertise here a bit longer.”

You raised an eyebrow, a teasing smile playing on your lips. “Is that your way of saying you’d miss me?” you crossed your arms. 

“Maybe,” he admitted, a playful glint in his eyes. “But don’t let it go to your head.”

You laughed, the sound light and genuine. “I’ll think about it. It’s not like I’m in a rush to take a pay cut.” 

“Good,” Seonghwa said, his smile widening. “Because I’m not ready to say goodbye just yet.”

<< v | vii >>

a/n: this and the next chapter pretty much wraps up the Mingi arc before we move into the Dr. Kang arc

taglist: @litolmochi @syubseokie

away with the wind | v

Pairing: dragonrider!Seonghwa x ex-dragonrider!Reader AU: dragon rider au | strangers -> lovers Summary: A spinal injury forces you to retire from dragon racing, and with it, the end of your engagement to Song Mingi. Park Seonghwa, a rising star in the world of dragon racing and heir to the prestigious House Park, seeks a new dragon after an unfortunate accident on the skyway. As the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Word Count: 5.5K Warnings: angst, hurt/no comfort, swearing, child labor

a/n: 2 chapters in one day, my brain is fried

Fic Masterlist

The countdown to the Inferno Cup had begun, and with just 3 weeks left, the atmosphere was electric. The training grounds were alive with the sound of dragon wings cutting through the air and the occasional command. 

“Let’s run through that track again,” you said through the ear piece, your eyes fixed on the hologram. Seonghwa’s eyes were focused and determined, a steely resolve etched into his features. He pulled on Starshine’s reins, moving with precision to ensure that their every move was perfectly in sync. 

“Don’t pull on her reins when you come on that turn, let her do her thing,” you advised, your tone gentle but firm. Seonghwa nodded, adjusting his grip and relaxing his posture. Starshine responded immediately, her movements becoming more fluid and graceful as she navigated the turns with ease.

Seonghwa had always believed dragons were tools, meant to attend to his every beck and call. After every training session or race, he would return to the estate, his dragons to the caverns to be tended to by the keepers. But with Starshine, things were different. He found himself letting her roam his estate freely, venturing out together to explore the skies, and occasionally dropping by your home. 

This change in behavior surprised even him. He quickly realized that Starshine was not just a tool, but a companion. Her presence brought a sense of calm and that he had never felt before, a being who shared his dreams and ambitions. She was a confidante, a partner in every sense of the word.

“Nice turn on that bend,” you said, watching Seonghwa and Starshine descend gracefully from above. The dragon’s wings folded neatly as they landed, a testament to their seamless coordination. He patted her neck affectionately, a silent acknowledgment of their shared success.

Yunho approached the pair with a broad smile, waiting to take the reins from Seonghwa to unsaddle Starshine. Right on his heels was a bouncing Voltage, galloping towards Starshine with an exuberance that was infectious, his tail swishing playfully like a puppy. 

His golden eyes were sparkling with excitement, pleading with Seonghwa to let him play with Starshine now that training was over. Though he was now bonded to Yunho, Voltage still considered Seonghwa a friend, and nudged his hand with his snout, seeking more attention and pats.

His playful antics brought a smile to Seonghwa’s face as he reached out to stroke Voltage’s head. “Thanks,” he said, his voice warm with gratitude. “We’ve been working hard on those turns outside of practice.”

“It shows,” you said, feeling a sense of pride in his progress. “You two will be unstoppable.”

Seonghwa’s eyes met yours, lingering for a brief moment before handing the reins to Yunho. Over the past few months, your friendship had developed in ways neither of you had anticipated, especially after the incident in the garden with Mingi. When Mingi had accosted you, Seonghwa stepped in without hesitation, marking a turning point in your relationship. 

In the days that followed the events of that night, you found yourself questioning the nature of your relationship with Seonghwa. Were you now friends? The lines between professionalism and something more had blurred, leaving you in a state of uncertainty. 

“Lady Y/N?” a voice interrupted your thoughts, and you turned to see Ms. Jang, Park Haerin’s personal assistant. Her presence was always marked by an air of efficiency and quiet authority.

“Why are you here, Ms. Jang?” Seonghwa asked, his tone sharper than usual as he approached the older woman. 

“Lady Park requests Lady Y/N’s presence for tea,” Ms. Jang announced, her tone polite but firm, hands folded in front of her.

You exchanged a quick glance with Seonghwa. Park Haerin’s constant vigilance and involvement in Seonghwa’s life were driven by a fierce desire to see him succeed, and it was no secret that she wasn’t afraid to voice her concerns, often making Seonghwa feel suffocated under her watchful eye.

“Is this urgent?” he bit back, his voice edged with frustration.

Ms. Jang maintained her composed demeanor, but you sensed the uneasiness in her eyes as she responded to her Lord. “Lady Park simply wishes to discuss your progress with Lady Y/N,” she said, her words carefully chosen.

“Why does my mother want to meet with Y/N now? What’s this really about?” Seonghwa demanded, his frustration evident.

Ms. Jang hesitated, her gaze flickering between you and Seonghwa. “I’m not privy to all the details, my Lord,” she admitted, her voice softening. “But Lady Park was quite insistent that this meeting take place.”

Seonghwa let out a sigh, running a hand through his hair. “Fine,” he muttered, his tone resigned.

You sighed, feeling the weight of yet another task added to your list. The thought of facing Lady Park’s probing and veiled criticisms was daunting, but you knew it was unavoidable. 

Seonghwa turned back to you, his expression still skeptical. “Let me know if she tries to pull anything.”

You gave him a reassuring smile. “Guess I'll find out,” you said, trying to muster some enthusiasm.

Ms. Jang’s expression softened slightly, as if she understood the burden you carried. “Lady Park will be in the east garden of the estate when you arrive,” she informed you, before turning to leave.

Bathed in sunlight, the House Park estate’s elegant architecture and meticulously maintained gardens were a testament to the wealth and status of one of Aurora’s Great Houses. The sprawling lawns were dotted with vibrant flower beds, their colors vivid and striking against the lush green backdrop with marble statues and ornate fountains added a touch of grandeur.

As you approached the entrance, the grand facade of the mansion loomed before you, its intricate stonework exuding an air of timeless elegance. More House Park staff greeted you with a deep bow. 

“Lady Y/N,” they said, their voice respectful and composed. You returned the bow and were ushered into the mansion, its interior just as impressive as its exterior. The soft glow of sunlight filtered through large windows, casting a warm, golden hue over everything–a stark contrast to the silver moonlight that enveloped the very same hall with its shadows a mere few weeks ago. 

The servant guided you to a private garden where she awaited. She sat at the immaculately set table, the high neckline and long fitted sleeves of her dress adding to her air of sophistication. Not a single strand of her hair was out of place, each wave perfectly styled. Haerin looked up as you entered, her expression composed and unreadable.

“Thank you for coming, Lady Y/N,” she said, her voice smooth and measured. “Please, have a seat.”

You took a deep breath and sat down across from her, trying to steady your nerves. “Thank you for having me, your grace.”

She nodded to the waitstaff, who promptly poured tea into your cup, the fragrant steam rising between you. “I’ve invited you to tea today to discuss Seonghwa’s progress,” she began, her eyes never leaving yours. “I’m sure you’re aware that The Inferno Cup is not just a tournament; it is a matter of honor and legacy for our House. Winning would uphold our standing among the empire and solidify Seonghwa’s position as a capable and respected rider.”

“I can assure you, your grace, that Lord Park has been making great progress. With Starshine, he’s mastered a number of incredibly difficult techniques within a few short months,” you said, your voice filled with conviction. 

“Their synchronization has improved remarkably, and they’ve developed a strong understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses. He’s been training tirelessly, often pushing himself beyond his limits to ensure that he and Starshine are prepared for the challenges ahead.”

Haerin’s gaze remained steady. “That is reassuring to hear. Riders participating in the Inferno Cup not only require skill but also resilience and adaptability. It is crucial that Seonghwa is able to respond to unexpected situations with precision and confidence.”

In the few short months Seonghwa had Starshine, their relationship had grown into a powerful alliance, one that Seonghwa had never experienced with his other dragons. The pair had developed an unspoken language, a seamless system of communication that allowed them to anticipate each other’s moves. Two halves of a whole, each perfectly attuned to the other’s thoughts and intentions.

“Of course, your grace,” you bowed slightly, reaching for your cup. The delicate porcelain felt cool against your fingers as you lifted it to your lips, savoring the rich aroma of the tea. “The bond between a dragon and their rider is not just a partnership; it’s the cornerstone of their combined strength and effectiveness. Dreamwoods possess an extraordinary sensitivity to the emotional states of their riders. Call it emotional resonance if you will.”

You knew that without a strong bond the consequences on the skyway could be dire. A dragon that does not trust its rider can become a liability, its fear and confusion leading to disastrous outcomes. You’ve witnessed dragons spiraling out of control, their riders clinging desperately to the reins, their cries for help swallowed by the roaring winds or by the ferocious nature of their own companion. 

A pregnant pause filled the air, the silence hanging uncomfortably. You could feel the weight of her scrutiny, the seconds ticking by slowly.

“Tell me, what do you think of Seonghwa?” The question was pointed, laden with curiosity and thinly veiled suspicion.

“You grace?” you sputtered, slightly taken aback by the sudden and pointed inquiry. You set the cup down gently, your mind racing to gather your thoughts about Seonghwa. Haerin’s gaze remained fixed on you, her expression hard and unyielding, as if daring you to speak anything but the truth.

“There’s something more than mere admiration in your eyes, isn’t there?” She leaned forward slightly. “What are your intentions with him?”

Your heart raced as you struggled to find the right words, aware that any misstep could have serious consequences. The intensity of her gaze made it clear that she was observing your every reaction.

You took a deep breath, steadying yourself. “My relationship with his Lordship is purely professional,” you began, your voice measured. “Lord Park’s tenacity and commitment to the sport is unparalleled and admirable. My priority is to ensure complete victory for House Park and I only wish to serve to the best of my abilities. There is nothing more to it.” 

Haerin’s eyes flickered with a contemplation but she wasn’t satisfied. “Purely professional?” she echoed, her tone dripping with suspicion. “Do you mind explaining your whereabouts the night of the Inferno Gala? Are you sure there’s nothing personal between you?”

“With all due respect, your grace, Lord Park had come to my defense in a confrontation with another rider.”

Her eyes narrowed, and she leaned forward, her voice cold. “A confrontation, you say? I find it hard to believe that was purely coincidental.”

You felt a surge of frustration but kept your composure. “I assure you, your grace, it was nothing more than a professional courtesy.”

Haerin’s expression hardened. “Very well,” she said, her tone still guarded. “I will take you at your word, but know that I will be watching closely. Seonghwa’s reputation is paramount, and I will not allow anyone to tarnish it.”

“Yes, your grace.” The tension was palpable, a heavy weight in the air that made you eager to excuse yourself. You could feel the scrutiny in her gaze, the unspoken warning that any misstep would not go unnoticed.

You observed Haerin fiddling with the handle of her delicate cup, her fingers tracing the intricate patterns as if seeking comfort in the familiar texture. Her eyes darted around the garden, avoiding direct contact, as if she were unsure of what to say next. As you stood up to excuse yourself with one last bow, she suddenly spoke, her voice halting your movement.

“Wait,” she said, her tone softer but insistent. You paused, looking at her. She set the cup down with a deliberate motion, her fingers lingering on the porcelain as if reluctant to let go.

Finally, she took a deep breath and looked up. “Are you well versed in combat techniques?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper, yet carrying a weight of curiosity and concern.

“Y-Your grace?” you stammered, caught off guard by the sudden shift in the conversation.

“I worry about Seonghwa’s safety,” she blurted, a deep-seated anxiety filling her voice. Her eyes, usually so composed, now reflected her concern. “He is so dedicated, so driven, but I fear he may not be fully prepared for the dangers he might face.”

You hesitated, the weight of the decision pressing weighing on your shoulders. While you had received some combat training from your grandmother and sister, the thought of teaching Seonghwa when you yourself were inexperienced, filled you with doubt. 

“If I may, your grace, are you worried about what happened in the last race?” you asked cautiously, recalling the harrowing incident that had set all of these events into motion. 

She nodded slowly. “Yes,” she admitted. “That race was a stark reminder of how unprepared he can be. The chase in the canyon, the chaos that ensued… It was a miracle no one was seriously injured, though that race should have been a given against that Longhorn.” You could see the fear in her eyes. For once, she seemed human, vulnerable. 

“I understand the importance of thorough preparation and the need for vigilance, however… If a dragon is truly bonded with their rider, their instincts will drive them to do whatever they can to protect them,” you reassured, attempting to mask your own hesitations. “I am more than happy to consult my grandmother on techniques that would prepare his grace should he ever find himself in the face of danger.”

Haerin took a deep breath, the tension in her face and shoulders easing. “Thank you, Lady Y/N,” she said, her voice steadier now. The gratitude in her eyes was unmistakable, despite her standoffish demeanor towards you. 

“I’m afraid I must return to the skyway, your grace” you bowed, the formal gesture a sign of respect and duty. As you straightened, you noticed the way Haerin’s gaze softened, if only for a moment.

“Very well,” she replied flatly, her tone betraying none of the emotions that flickered in her eyes. She turned away, her posture rigid once more.

You thought of Seonghwa as you left the garden, sympathizing with the constant pressure he faced. The weight of his responsibilities, the relentless demands on his time and energy, and the expectations placed upon him were immense. Your empathy for him deepened your resolve to support him in every way possible.

“The race is only a few weeks away. I’m not sure if Starshine and Seonghwa will be prepared to master combat techniques in time,” you said, your voice filled with worry. The weight of the upcoming tournament weighed heavily on your shoulders, and you couldn’t help but glance out the window in the direction of the Park estate.

You were in the kitchen with your grandmother, preparing dinner and recounting your conversation with Park Haerin. While you stewed in your own thoughts, she continued to peel the potatoes, her hands moving rhythmically. 

“We’re in a time of peace, not war. Even if those techniques are taught out of an abundance of precaution, what matters is the trust and connection between them.”

“Are you saying you’re unwilling to teach Starshine how to do a barrel roll?” Your grandmother glared at you, earning a hearty laugh. 

“Sunmi’s preoccupied with the baby, you’re…old, and my body isn’t the same as it used to be. I can’t think of anyone willing to teach him those move sets.” You added your own handful of sliced potatoes to the pot, taking in the comforting aroma of the simmering herbs. 

“Old, am I?” she retorted, raising an eyebrow. “I’ll have you know I could still outfly you on my worst day.”

You chuckled, shaking your head. “I don’t doubt it, but we need someone who can keep up with Starshine’s energy.” A comfortable silence settled in the kitchen, the sound of the stove bubbling softly in the background. You stirred the pot absently, lost in thought.

“You know, Sohee’s been practicing divebombs with Outlaw,” your grandmother remarked casually, breaking the silence. 

Your jaw dropped. “You can’t be serious.”

“Age is just a number, my dear,” she shrugged, mischief twinkling in her eyes. “She’s shown more promise than many seasoned riders three times her age. Sometimes, the young surprise us with their capabilities.”

“Sunmi’s going to kill me.”

“She’s been quite encouraging, actually,” she replied with a sly grin. “When you’re six and "bored" all the time, training dragons is a great pastime.”

You sighed, still grappling with the idea. “I know she’s talented, but this is different. Training Seonghwa is a huge responsibility, especially with his mother watching my every move.”

“Give her a chance,” your grandmother urged gently. “You might be amazed at what she can do. Besides, if something happens to her, we can sue House Park for every shilling in that vault of theirs.”

You arrived at the skyway, leaving Cirrus at home and bringing Outlaw instead. Sohee was in tow, with Burrow perched precariously on her head like a living hat. The tiny dragon’s wings flapped occasionally, trying to maintain balance as your niece strutted confidently ahead. Yunho watched with amusement, a grin spreading across his face, while Seonghwa stood nearby, his expression a combination of dread and apprehension.

“Is today ‘bring your kid to work day’?” Seonghwa asked, raising an eyebrow.

“No,” Yunho chuckled, “Sohee’s here to help.”

“Help!?” Seonghwa echoed with disbelief.

“Sohee, are you sure Burrow is comfortable up there?” you asked, trying to hide your amusement as you both approached the rider and handler. 

“Of course she is!” Sohee replied with a dramatic eye roll. “She loves it. Right, Burrow?” The little dragon chirped in agreement. 

Sohee’s bright eyes sparkled with mischief as her gaze met Seonghwa’s. She wore a miniature version of the riding gear, looking every bit the part of a young dragon rider with her hair braided into twin tails. 

“Come on, Outlaw! We’ve got rich people to train and moves to master!” she called back to you, her small frame was almost comically serious as she stood with her hands on her hips. You fumbled behind wrangling an overly eager Outlaw. 

She turned to Seonghwa. “Don’t worry, I’ve got this,” she said with a confident grin. “I’m practically a pro already.”

Seonghwa’s eyes widened, and he glanced at Yunho, who was barely containing his laughter. “A pro, huh?” he muttered. Starshine nuzzled Sohee, earning a giggle from the young girl. 

Yunho bent down to Sohee’s level, a smile on his face. “Here are your comms, boss!” he said, handing her a pair of earbuds with a playful salute. “These will help you communicate with Seonghwa, your aunt, and me from far away.”

“Copy that!” she exclaimed, returning the gesture just as you reached the trio with Outlaw pawing the ground behind you as if he were saying he was “ready for action”. 

Sohee turned to you with a serious expression that was almost comical on her young face. “Okay, let’s start! We have to make Mr. Seonghwa the best dragon rider ever!” 

With a sassy flick of her braid, she approached Outlaw with the confidence of a seasoned rider. She gave a quick, practiced whistle, and Outlaw obediently lowered one of his massive wings to the ground. With a graceful leap, Sohee used the wing as a springboard, her small frame soaring through the air. She landed lightly on Outlaw’s back, her movements fluid and precise, as if she had done this a thousand times before.

Burrow, flittered over to find purchase on your shoulder, letting out a supportive trill. Seonghwa sighed, resigned to his fate, while Yunho clapped him on the back, still grinning.

“This should be interesting,” Yunho said, his eyes crinkling with excitement. 

With Sohee confidently perched on Outlaw, the training session began in earnest. Seonghwa, still looking a bit apprehensive, mounted Starshine, and awaited instructions.

“So, what’s first on the agenda?” Yunho's voice came through the comms, his tone playful.

Sohee straightened up, adopting a serious expression. “Okay, first we’re gonna do barrel rolls! They’re super important for dodging bad guys and making them dizzy!”

Seonghwa nodded. “Alright, let’s do this.”

“Watch me,” Sohee instructed. She gave Outlaw a gentle nudge with her heels, and the dragon took off into the sky. With a swift command, Outlaw executed a perfect barrel roll, twisting with great force through the air. Sohee’s laughter echoed as they completed the maneuver.

“Now you try!” she called through the comms to Seonghwa.

Seonghwa took a deep breath and urged Starshine into the air. Following Sohee’s example, he guided Starshine into a barrel roll, hesitating for a moment before twisting through the air, completing the maneuver with a bit of a wobble.

“That’s okay!” Sohee shouted, clapping her hands. “Do it again until Starshine isn’t wobbly!” 

Seonghwa nodded, determination setting in. He guided Starshine back into the air and repeated the barrel roll, each time improving on the maneuver. With each attempt, Starshine’s movements became smoother and more controlled. 

“Yay, Mr. Seonghwa!” she cheered after his final attempt. “Starshine looks better now. You’re getting the hang of it! Let’s do some dive bombs!”

Seonghwa’s eyes widened slightly, but he nodded. “You’re the boss.”

“Dive bombing is all about speed and precision,” you explained through the comms, watching as Sohee’s small hands gestured animatedly through the hologram. “It’s the maneuver that Ajax used to injure Edge. I showed you how to perform it, remember?”

“Hey, are you listening!?” Sohee asked, pouting from her saddle. Seonghwa nodded as she took off with Outlaw, soaring high into the sky. With a sharp command from Sohee, they plummeted towards the ground. At the last possible moment, Outlaw pulled up, skimming just above the ground before soaring back into the air.

“Your turn!” Sohee called out, waving her arms in the air. 

Seonghwa urged Starshine to gain altitude. Once they were high enough, he took a deep breath and initiated the dive. The wind roared past them as they hurtled towards the ground. At the last moment, Seonghwa pulled up, and Starshine leveled out, albeit a bit shakily.

“Great job!” Sohee cheered. “Again!”

“Again!?” Seonghwa groaned, this time with playful exasperation. He glanced back at Sohee, who was grinning from ear to ear. “You’re enjoying this way too much.”

“Of course I am! You’re getting better every time. Come on, one more dive!” 

Seonghwa sighed dramatically but couldn’t hide his grin. “Alright, alright. One more dive.”

As Seonghwa and Starshine prepared for another dive, Sohee’s voice rang out with a new idea. “Let’s do some wing slashes!”

“Sohee, shouldn’t you teach Seonghwa how to block?” you asked through the comms, your voice crackling slightly but clear enough to convey the suggestion.

Sohee paused, her excitement momentarily halted. “Oops. Yeah, let’s do that!” she agreed, her tone shifting to one of determination. “Let’s do some blocking!” 

“Alright, show me how it’s done.”

“First, you need to keep Starshine’s wings close,” Sohee instructed, her voice filled with authority. Outlaw brought his wings around like a formidable shield, enveloping both himself and Sohee in a protective embrace.

“Like this?” Seonghwa asked, carefully mimicking the motion with Starshine.

“Yeah! Now, let’s practice with some attacks. I’ll go easy on you.”

With a determined look, Sohee commanded Outlaw to unleash a series of blasts. The fiery projectiles were strong enough to push Seonghwa and Starshine back, but not enough to cause any real harm. Starshine quickly adapted, using her wings to deflect the fireballs, shielding Seonghwa from the fiery onslaught.

Seonghwa’s confidence grew with each successful block. “This isn’t so bad,” he said, a hint of pride in his voice.

“Okay, now faster!” Sohee shouted.

“Faster!?” Seonghwa echoed, his eyes widening in surprise.

Outlaw began swooping and diving, changing angles and speeds as he launched a rapid succession of flames, making the attacks unpredictable. Starshine’s wings moved with incredible speed, each deflection creating a burst of sparks in the air. She mirrored these movements, twisting and turning in mid-air to keep up with the barrage. Seonghwa held tight, his body moving in sync with Starshine’s powerful maneuvers.

Sensing Seonghwa’s frustration and inability to go on the offensive, Starshine returned fire to Outlaw who was caught off guard by the sudden counterattack. Her eyes blazed with determination, and a fierce roar erupted from her throat, echoing through the sky.

“Sohee, that’s enough for now. Starshine is getting stressed,” you said through the comms, concerned for your niece's safety while you noticed the strain in the dragon’s movements.

“No,” Seonghwa interjected firmly. “She’s fine. Sohee, keep firing at me.”

Starshine’s movements were not defensive but filled with a fiery spirit, each block a testament to her protective instincts. Seonghwa’s heart pounded in his chest, but he felt a surge of exhilaration with each successful defense, feeding off his dragon’s fierce energy.

Outlaw’s fireballs came faster and more unpredictably, but Starshine met each one with unwavering precision. Her wings moved like a well-oiled machine, deflecting the attacks with a grace that belied the intensity of the situation. Seonghwa could feel the bond between them strengthening, a silent understanding passing between rider and dragon.

“You’re getting really good, Mr. Seonghwa! But I’m hungry and it's too smoky,” Sohee called out with a cough, her small voice barely cutting through the haze.

Yunho, who had been observing from a distance, approached with a smile. “Great job, everyone. The training session went really well today,” he said, giving Seonghwa a pat on the back. 

Sohee slid off Outlaw with a relieved sigh. Her cheeks were flushed and braids tousled as she bounded over toward  you. “Auntie, I’m hungry!” she complained, patting her tummy and looking up with wide, pleading eyes. Burrow trilled, reuniting with her rider, echoing her sentiment for food. 

“Alright, what should we eat?”

“Pasta! Can Mr. Seonghwa and Yunho come too?”

“Why am I, Mr. Seonghwa?” Seonghwa raised a brow at the title.

“Because Yunho is nice and my friend, and Mom said I have to be polite because you’re rich.” Sohee replied matter-of-factly, her innocent honesty making everyone chuckle.

Seonghwa feigned a look of hurt, placing a hand over his heart. “I can be nice too!”

Yunho laughed, ruffling Sohee’s hair affectionately. “Don’t worry, Mr. Seonghwa. You’re nice in your own way.”

“Of course,” you replied with a giggle, enjoying the lighthearted banter. “Let’s head back and get you washed up. You smell like smoke.”

As you all began to walk back, Seonghwa and Yunho fell into step beside you, the three of you discussing the day’s training, analyzing what went well and what could be improved.

“How’re you feeling?” you asked, approaching Seonghwa. You had dropped Sohee off at home and returned to the skyway with Cirrus. With the race quickly approaching, training days extended late into the night, leaving little room for rest.

Seonghwa looked up, wiping a bead of sweat from his forehead. “A bit exhausted, but it was a good session,” he replied with a tired smile. 

You nodded, glancing over at Starshine who was resting nearby on her side. “Starshine did amazing today. You both did.”

“When your sister said Sohee would run me into the ground, she wasn’t kidding,” he chuckled. Seonghwa took a deep breath, looking out over the skyway.

With twilight on the horizon, the stars were beginning to twinkle, and the cool night air was a welcome relief after the day’s heat. For a moment, the two of you stood in comfortable silence, but you noticed Seonghwa's expression shift, a shadow crossing his face.

“What did you discuss with my mother when you met with her the other day?” he asked, his tone curious but edged with suspicion.

You glanced down at him, taking in his features. His sharp jawline was set with determination, and the way his hair fell slightly over his forehead gave him a thoughtful, almost brooding look.

“Just…your progress,” you finally said.

Seonghwa’s eyes narrowed with a grimace. “My progress? Is that all?” he pressed. “I find it hard to believe that was the only topic of conversation.”

You omitted the part of the conversation where his mother questioned your intentions with him. You’ve both made it clear that this partnership was solely professional, however, over time you found yourself drawn to Seonghwa’s strength, his resilience, and the way he carried himself despite the pressures he faced. You admired his dedication and the quiet moments of vulnerability, something you hadn’t anticipated.

You were taken aback at his sudden defensiveness, and try to maintain your own composure. “Seonghwa, your mother only wanted to know if you’re prepared ahead of the cup.”

“So she asked you to teach me combat techniques?” he snapped, his tone accusatory, eyes narrowing as he crossed his arms defensively. 

You felt your own frustration rising, a knot forming in your chest. “She did. Because she’s worried about you. We all want to make sure you’re ready for whatever comes your way,” you replied, trying to keep your voice steady.

“I don’t need her meddling in my training,” he retorted. “I’m perfectly capable of handling myself, and her constant interference is undermining my ability to stand on my own. Especially when she starts getting others involved,” he emphasized, eyes locked on you. 

"You asked me to train you!" you frowned.  

“I did.” he bellowed, taking a step towards you. “Let me remind you that you work for me.” I wanted to learn from you is what he left unsaid.

The constant interference left him feeling isolated and misunderstood. He yearned for the freedom to make his own choices, to build relationships based on his own desires and values. But every attempt to assert his independence was met with resistance, leaving him feeling more trapped and alone. He always felt suffocated by the weight of expectations that were never his own. Every choice, every decision seemed to be made for him, leaving him with nothing that truly belonged to him. 

And then he chose you. He begged you to train him, willing to pay any price in hopes you would accept the job. You were supposed to be his chance to finally take control of something in his life. But now, even that seemed tainted by the ever-present shadow of his mother’s influence.

“Do not drag me into this!” you snapped back, your voice echoing his intensity. “Your issues with her are yours alone. Address them with her, not me.”

His response was swift and biting. “You brought yourself into this when you approached me at the Institute,” he shot back, his words felt like a slap, unexpected and stinging.

You could only stare at Seonghwa incredulously, blinking back tears. The weight of his words hung heavily in the air, leaving you both in a tense standoff.

You knew where he was going with this. It was easier to blame those around him than take accountability for his actions. You knew it when Hongjoong alluded to it with his comments during the gala. You knew it even before you met him, from the whispers and warnings uttered by those close enough to be scorned by him.

I don't want you to get hurt. Why do Mingi's words weigh so heavily on your heart right now.

“So why didn’t you stop me?” you demanded, your voice breaking under the strain of your emotions. "I admit that I approach you with the goal of beating Mingi. But I didn't expect you to turn on me so quickly. So why didn't you stop me?"

The admission hung in the air, a testament to his own helplessness. “I don’t know,” he finally muttered, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Of course you don’t,” you grit, your voice rising with anger. “Because you’ve never taken accountability for your own actions! You’re too much of a coward to confront your own mother and instead, take it out on everyone else around you,” you accused, the pain and frustration spilling over.

Unable to contain your emotions any longer, you turned on your heel and stormed off, your footsteps crunching against the ground as you wiped the hot tears from your face. 

Bottom of Mito Ravine, Border between the Empire of Aurora and Halazia

“Careful with that one.” A voice instructed, pointing to a particularly large and mangled carcass with iridescent copper scales. “Dr. Kang needs the heart and the brain intact for the hybridization process.”

Two assistants carefully approached the dragon, working quickly but meticulously to extract the required organs and placing them in specially designed containment units. The team moved the containers to a portable lab set up at the edge of the ravine. Inside, various dragon parts were being analyzed and cataloged, each one holding the potential for groundbreaking discoveries. 

The lab buzzed with activity as samples were processed and data was collected. Scientists moved between workstations, their focus intense as they examined the dragon remains, each discovery bringing them one step closer to their goal: to create a new generation of dragons with enhanced traits to create the ultimate combatants and competitors.

For the scientists, the ethical implications of their work were a constant undercurrent, but the promise of power and prestige drove them forward.

<< iv | vi >>

a/n: I lied there are now 2 chapters before I see the boys lol, wrote this part while at the airport

taglist: @litolmochi @syubseokie

what i wanna do to mingi :

away with the wind || iv

Pairing: dragonrider!Seonghwa x ex-dragonrider!Reader AU: dragon rider au | strangers -> lovers Summary: A spinal injury forces you to retire from dragon racing, and with it, the end of your engagement to Song Mingi. Park Seonghwa, a rising star in the world of dragon racing and heir to the prestigious House Park, seeks a new dragon after an unfortunate accident on the skyway. As the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Word Count: 5.1K

a/n: I've always imagined this world to be similar to Final Fantasy, so don't be surprised that I introduced technology lol

Fic Masterlist

The announcement that you were officially joining Seonghwa’s team as his trainer sent shockwaves through the dragon racing community and beyond with media outlets buzzing with excitement, speculation, and a flurry of opinions.

INSIDE SCOOP: EX-ROOKIE RIDER HIRED BY PARK SEONGHWA’S TEAM?

Some critics questioned your qualifications and experience, pointing to your past as a rookie rider, doubting whether you could handle the pressure of training a top-tier rider like Seonghwa, especially with your early retirement. Some debated the decision, arguing that it was a risky move that could backfire on him. 

Park Haerin was skeptical about the decision. She had always been deeply involved in Seonghwa’s career, and the idea of bringing in an outsider, especially one with a controversial past, was unsettling. Seonghwa assured her of the potential benefits, indicating that you were the only viable Dreamwood trainer who knew all of Ajax’s weaknesses. 

BREAKING NEWS: PARK SEONGHWA’S MYSTERY WOMAN?

Some articles speculated about the nature of your relationship with Seonghwa, with some suggesting a romantic angle, pointing to the close bond you seemed to share. Upon hearing this, you and Seonghwa both wanted to gag. The idea was laughable. You definitely weren’t his type, and the thought of a romantic involvement was as far-fetched as it could get. 

This partnership was purely strategic. You were using him as a means to an end, a way to get back at Ming and aligning yourself with Seonghwa’s team was the perfect opportunity to prove your worth as a trainer and rider. 

EXCLUSIVE: PARK SEONGHWA’S NEW TRAINER, SONG MINGI’S EX-FIANCE?

Within the racing community, the reaction was mixed. Others were more reserved, adopting a wait-and-see approach while some dug into your past and your connection to Song Mingi. 

Amidst the whirlwind of reactions, you remained focused on your new role, allowing Yunho to handle any media inquiries on your behalf.

“We remain confident in our decision to bring Y/N on board. Y/N has demonstrated an exceptional understanding of the sport and a commitment to bringing our team to new heights.” His words were measured and reassuring, aimed at quelling the doubts and reinforcing the team’s unity.

The air was thick with anticipation as reporters crowded outside the training grounds. Their cameras, notepads, and microphones were thrust forward, all aimed at capturing a glimpse of the enigmatic woman who had been seen with Seonghwa. Whispers and speculations filled the air, each more sensational than the last.

“Trainings are closed to the media,” Yunho called out, his voice strained as he tried to manage the growing crowd for what seemed like the nth day in a row. The reporters, undeterred, continued to press forward, eager for any scrap of information.

Inside the training ground, the atmosphere was much different. Seonghwa, focused and determined, paying no mind to the chaos outside. You were equally composed, guiding him through a series of exercises from the ground as he piloted Starshine. 

You focused your attention on his form, noticing how stiff he seemed. His shoulders were tense, and his movements lacked the fluidity required for optimal control. “Relax your shoulders!” you instructed, your tone firm but encouraging.

“Piloting a Dreamwood isn’t the same as any other dragon! You don’t need to rely on strength!”

“Lean forward a little more!” you added, your voice steady and clear. Seonghwa adjusted his posture, responding to your instructions as you monitored his movements on the hologram screen in front of you. The advanced display projected real time footage of Seonghwa and Starshine, allowing you to observe every detail of his technique.

Seonghwa took a deep breath, consciously loosening his muscles. You watched as his posture began to soften, his movements becoming more natural and harmonious with Starshine’s rhythm. “That’s better!” you called with a thumbs up. “Let her movements guide you.”

With your feedback, Seonghwa’s body moved in sync with Starshine, the two of them gliding through the air with newfound grace. 

“How’s he doing?” Yunho asked, returning from the front gates after attempts to fend off the press. He glanced at the hologram, his brow furrowing slightly as he assessed Seonghwa’s progress.

“He’s getting there,” you replied. “He’ll need some fine-tuning to maintain the right balance between control and flexibility. He could benefit from more stretching to improve flexibility and core strength training.” 

Yunho let out a chuckle, shaking his head in amusement. “I’ll see what I can do.”

“How’re the vultures?” you asked, turning to face him. The noise from outside the training grounds was still audible.

“What do you expect? They’re looking for a scandal,” he sighed, folding his arms behind his head. “They’ve been camped out there all day, hoping for a big break. I’m surprised you haven’t been affected by the media circus.”

You shrugged, your expression thoughtful. “People will move on to the next story soon enough. Our main objective is to ensure that he's prepared to take on anything Mingi and Ajax throw at him.”

As you both turned back to the screen, the noise from outside seemed to fade, replaced by the steady rhythm of Starshine’s wings swooping through the air. 

When you told Wooyoung that Seonghwa had hired you to train him for the Inferno Cup, he fell to the floor, dramatically clutching his chest, as if the news had physically wounded him. 

“You wound me, Y/N. This is the ultimate betrayal! How much is he paying you? I’ll write to the Council and ask for a boost in funding and double your salary!” he declared, feigning a dramatic sob.

“10,000 shillings an hour. I was able to negotiate an 8,000 inconvenience fee for disrupting my already mundane life,” you replied with a smirk, dusting off your shoulder.  

Wooyoung’s eyes widened. “18,000 shillings? I knew he wanted to beat Song Mingi, but this is next level!” he rubbed his chin wondering what kind of magic your family had managed to pull to get Park Seonghwa to settle for a Dreamwood. 

When Seonghwa and Yunho waved goodbye to your family from atop their dragons, your grandmother wasted no time stashing the funds away for her next trip to the bank. Suffice to say, your family may have added an extra ‘0’ to Starshine’s price tag. And while many would call it exploiting the rich, Chunja considered it a well-deserved bonus for dealing with the eccentricities of Lord Park Seonghwa. 

“I have six months to get him and Starshine trained up. It’s not going to be easy, which is why I need this leave of absence.” 

Your boss nodded. “By the way, did Seonghwa pull the records on Ajax?”

“He did. We found some discrepancies in the registry but still doesn’t answer any of our questions about his Fury heritage. I theorized that the recruiter could’ve fabricated the story of Ajax’s origins to take advantage of Mingi.”

Wooyoung furrowed his brows, deep in thought. “Have you had an opportunity to analyze any footage of him?” he asked, curiously. 

“Footage?” you echoed, puzzled.

“Footage of him in action,” Wooyoung clarified. “You have a great eye for anatomy. I’m sure if you analyzed it, you might uncover something you missed,” he suggested.

“I’ve seen him in action plenty of times, but like most Longhorns, he lacks brains and relies on raw power to get things done,” you replied, shaking your head.

Wooyoung leaned back in his chair, a contemplative look on his face. “Seonghwa mentioned that his speed is unusual for a Longhorn,” he mused, tapping his fingers thoughtfully on the armrest.

“I’ll see if there’s any current footage of Ajax I can pull,” you said, considering all of the possibilities.

“If his speed is truly that exceptional, you need to understand how he’s achieving it. There might be more to his physiology than meets the eye.”

“If I can figure out what makes him different, we might be able to at least prepare for it.”

Seonghwa stood at the edge of the training grounds, his eyes fixed on the horizon where the sun was beginning to set. Starshine was splayed out on her belly next to him, exhausted from a rigorous day of training. She let out a soft chirp, rolling onto her side and stretching her wings lazily. Her eyes were half-closed in contentment as she urged her rider to pet her.

With a gentle smile, he reached out, running his hand along her side. Her scales were warm to the touch, and she responded with a rumble, her tail swaying in contentment. The bond between them was undeniable, all thanks to your grandmother’s intuition and years of breeding. You watched the scene unfold, a sense of fondness swelling within you. The connection between them was a sight to behold, something you’d never imagine given Seonghwa’s history. 

You approached the pair, ready to brief him about tomorrow’s training. Starshine’s gaze shifted to you, wagging her tail excitedly. Seonghwa looked up, dread filling him with whatever exercise you had in store for him. 

“I can only do so many weaves,” he groaned, falling onto his back with a thud. The grass cushioned his fall, and he stared up at the sky, pleading for the Gods to intervene. 

You chuckled, shaking your head. “Oh, come on, it’s not that bad. Besides, you’re getting better at them.”

He turned his head to look at you, one eyebrow raised skeptically. “Fine, fine,” you waved off his complaint with a grin. 

“I want to show you something,” you said, plopping down next to him and pulling out the tablet. 

The screen flickered to life, casting a soft glow as a holographic display materialized. The footage showed Mingi and Ajax navigating a practice course. Both of you watched intently, your eyes tracking the wild dragon’s every move. 

You studied the dragon, pulling up another screen to compare the physiology of a true Longhorn against Ajax. You captured a still shot of him and overlaid the hologram with the anatomical illustration of the Longhorn.

“His wings are longer for sure,” you murmured, pulling the two holograms apart. “Look at his angulation,” you said, bringing the images together. 

“Ajax’s hind quarters are much more moderate whereas this Longhorn’s is less pronounced. It’s probably the reason why he was able to produce such an explosive burst of speed on such short notice.

Both you and Seonghwa continued watching the footage. At first, he started off slow, his massive form taking off above the terrain. Then, with a sudden flick of his tail, a whip-like movement propelled him forward with astonishing speed, a move that shocked you.

“Right there!” you exclaimed, pausing the screen. You zoomed in on his tail, replaying the footage in slow motion. The tail moved with a fluid grace, each segment working in perfect harmony to create a powerful thrust.

“What about his tail?” Seonghwa asked, leaning closer to the screen.

“That’s only a technique Cirrus knows,” you replied, your mind racing.

“Are you sure Mingi didn’t teach him that?” Seonghwa questioned, his brow furrowing in confusion.

“No. It’s physically impossible. Ajax’s tail is rigid and covered in spikes, designed for force rather than finesse. Dreamwood tails are flexible and have a lanced tip,” you explained, pointing out the differences. You get up to your feet, calling out to Cirrus. 

Bringing your fingers to your lips, you whistled for her with urgency. The sleek, lavender dragon appeared almost instantly, her body vibrating as if she were saying, “Finally! It’s my time!”

“Get on Starshine, I need to show you how it’s done,” you instructed Seonghwa. He quickly mounted Starshine, and followed you out to an open air space. 

You guided Cirrus to mimic the movement you had seen in the footage, her tail flicking with precision and power as she weaved through the air. “Watch closely,” you said, demonstrating the technique. 

“It’s all about the timing and the angle of the tail. If Ajax can do this, there’s something unique about his physiology that we need to understand. Maybe he isn’t a dumb as I thought.” 

You turned to face Seonghwa. “Do you remember what he did before he caught up to you?” 

“It happened so quickly. Mingi launched him above me, he was fast like an arrow. He did this move where he twisted or backflipped and slashed into Edge using his hind legs on the come down.”

“My back is going to hate me for this,” you grumbled, feeling the tension already building in your muscles. “So he did this, right?”

You pull down on Cirrus’ reins, urging her to fly straight upwards. Her iridescent scales reflected the sunset, casting a kaleidoscope of colors as she torpedoed into the atmosphere. As if reading your mind, she twisted into a backflip, her powerful wings slicing through the air before slamming down onto the ground with her hind legs. 

The impact sent a shockwave through your body, and you winced at the pain that shot up your spine, momentarily forgetting about the exhilaration of the flight. 

“How did you know what to do?”

“Because these are maneuvers only I taught with Cirrus. Either Ajax has grown a brain and let Mingi teach him or, he’s been playing dumb this whole time observing our every move.”

Sensing your discomfort, Cirrus carefully shifted her weight, allowing you to slide off her back. You gritted your teeth as you moved, each motion sending jolts of pain through your muscles. Cirrus extended one of her wings, creating a makeshift ramp to help you dismount more easily. You leaned heavily on her, grateful for her support.

“Starting tomorrow, you’re going to learn those movesets,” you declared, hands on your hips. 

“Eh?” Seonghwa cried out, slack jawed.  

Starshine let out an enthusiastic chuff, her eyes twinkling with excitement. She nudged Seonghwa playfully, as if to say, “We’ve got this.”

“Remember what I told you? You have to be prepared for anything,” you replied, a hint of smugness in your voice. You really enjoyed tormenting the rich. “So make sure you rest up!”

“Prepared for anything? Like your crazy stunts?” Seonghwa shot back, rolling his eyes. “I swear, you’re just trying to kill me at this point.”

“Wouldn’t that be a tragic end to House Park’s legacy,” you snort sarcastically. “Just think of it as character building. Besides, you’ve got Starshine, she’s a natural.”

Cirrus joined in with a playful flick of her tail, the tip brushing against Starshine’s side. The younger dragon responded with a light-hearted swat of her own tail, both aunt and niece engaging in a brief, friendly exchange that brought a smile to your face. 

“See? Even Cirrus is cheering you on.”

As the last rays of sunlight dipped below the horizon, Seonghwa knew that tomorrow would bring new challenges and opportunities. But for now, he allowed himself to savor this quiet moment of camaraderie. 

“That reminds me…”

The grand hall of House Park’s estate was a sight to behold, transformed into a dazzling venue for their Inferno Gala. The Inferno Gala was more than just another display of wealth by the Great House; it was a strategic move to not only elevate the profile of the Inferno Cup but to attract influential sponsors and supporters in favor of her son. 

Park Haerin spared no expense in ensuring the event was a memorable one. The walls were adorned with rich tapestries and floral arrangements, their vibrant colors adding to the festive atmosphere. A string quartet played softly in the background, their melodies weaving through the air and adding a touch of elegance to the evening as guests moved gracefully through the room, their laughter and conversation blending harmoniously with the music.

The tension in the air was palpable, and you could feel the eyes of the crowd on you as you stepped into the grand hall. Your attempts to make yourself small to avoid curious eyes were proving futile as the room buzzed with whispers and glances in your direction. 

“That reminds me…” Seonghwa opened his mouth but quickly closed it again, racking his brain for the right words. You blink, waiting for his response. 

“Is everything okay?” 

“Yes, well. It’s just that my mother will be hosting our annual Inferno Gala in a few weeks and as an official member of the team you’re expected to attend.” 

“I don’t have a choice, do I?” you sighed, patting Cirrus, who nuzzled against your hand. The thought of attending a grand event filled with strangers made your stomach churn, especially given the heightened interest in your role on Seonghwa’s team. 

“As your employer, no you don’t,” he replied with a smirk, his tone lightening the mood slightly. 

“I don’t think this was part of the deal,” you rolled your eyes playfully, trying to mask your apprehension with humor.

“You can add it to my tab” he sighed, running a hand through his hair. You couldn’t help but chuckle at his resigned tone. You pumped your fist in triumph, feeling a small victory in the midst of your reluctance.

“You look nice,” Yunho said, his voice breaking through your thoughts.

“Why thank you!” you giggled, feeling a blush creep up your cheeks. Ack! You quickly brought yourself back to reality, reminded of the snug fit of your dress.

It was two sizes too small, and you could feel every seam pressing against your skin despite Sunmi insisting that it was the perfect fit. The colors were representative of your House, a deep, rich hue. The strapless design showcased your collarbones and figure, accompanied by a billowing shawl draped around your arms, concealing the surgery scars on your back that you were still self-conscious about.

This was your first public appearance as a member of Seonghwa’s team along with Yunho and…Hongjoong? 

“Since when did you leave the archives?” you asked, grabbing a glass of champagne, turning to your colleague. 

“Since Park Seonghwa doesn’t know when to reel in his ego. Or keep his mouth shut. Or his trysts private,” Hongjoong replied, counting off Seonghwa’s mishaps on his fingers with exaggerated patience. “A degree in Draconian History also doesn’t pay the bills,” he added, adjusting his glasses with a sigh that hinted at exasperation. “This is just a part-time gig.”

“You live at home in your family’s historic estate. You don’t have any bills to pay,” you muttered, taking a sip of the liquid, earning a light chuckle from Yunho.

“Someone has to keep the family ghosts and dragons entertained,” he shrugged. “Speaking of entertainment, where is that boss of yours? He’d better not be getting himself into trouble.”

“It’s after hours, I’m off the clock,” Yunho shook his head defensively, his tone light but firm.  You hummed in agreement, taking another swig of the golden ambrosia to calm your nerves.   

Clad in an array of colorful and ornate attire, dragon riders from all over the empire convened in House Park's grand hall. Each rider carried an air of pride, their shared bond with their dragons evident in their confident strides and the way they spoke of their adventures.

From the corner of your eye, you catch a familiar blonde figure entering the room. His presence commanded immediate attention, drawing the eyes of nearly everyone around. He was dressed impeccably, as always, his suit tailored to perfection and his hair styled just so.

“Shit,” you muttered under your breath, dread washing over you like a cold wave. You handed your glass over to Hongjoong, who groaned in response.

“Why do I always end up as the designated glass holder?” he complained, though he took the glass without further protest when he noticed your expression falter. His eyes softened with concern, but he didn’t press you for details.

“I’ll be back,” you whispered, your voice barely audible over the din of the room. You whipped your head in every direction, desperately searching for the closest exit. The walls seemed to close in around you, and the air felt suddenly stifling.

He shouldn’t have this effect on you. It’s been two years, and he made it very clear that he was leaving you and you’ve made it clear to yourself that you’ve moved on. Yet, the sight of him still had the power to unravel you completely. Your heart pounded in your chest, and you could feel the familiar ache of old wounds reopening.

Seeing Mingi again was like ripping open a barely healed wound–you always thought about the scars on your back as that wound. Your breath hitched, and you struggled to maintain your composure as you hurried out of the grand hall and out towards the garden. 

The cool night air hit your face as you stepped outside, offering a brief respite from the suffocating atmosphere inside. You took a deep breath, trying to steady your racing heart. But before you could gather your thoughts, you heard footsteps behind you.

“Leaving so soon?” 

You turned around slowly, your eyes meeting Mingi’s. His figure stood imposing against the dim light filtering into the garden from the grand hall, illuminating his broad shoulders and tall, muscular frame. 

“What do you want?” you asked, your voice laced with venom as you pulled the shawl of your dress tighter around you, seeking some semblance of protection.

“I just wanted to see you. How’ve you been?” Mingi asked, his voice softer than you remembered.

“We're strangers, you don't get to ask me that,” you bit back, the bitterness in your voice unmistakable.

There was a long silence as you both stood there. The night air seemed to grow colder, mirroring the unspoken words you wanted to say at him. You turn away from him, focusing on the stars ahead.

He took a deep breath, his voice breaking the silence that hung in the air. “Why are you training him?” 

You frowned, the question catching you off guard. Capturing Mingi's attention by joining Seonghwa's team had always been in your plans but you weren’t prepared to face him this quickly. 

“That doesn’t concern you,” you replied steadily, with an air of coolness. The audacity of this man. 

Mingi’s expression hardened, tinged with hurt and…concern? “People are talking, and they’re assuming things. They’re talking about you!” frustration evident in his voice. 

“If you can’t handle the rumors, that’s on you,” you replied with a shrug. The same way you couldn’t handle my situation, you thought, but left unsaid.

“Y/N,” he pleaded, his voice barely audible but heavy with longing. The desperation made your skin crawl. 

Your jaw dropped with a scoff. Crossing your arms, you try to maintain your composure despite the turmoil inside. “Are you scared of losing to Park Seonghwa?”

His face darkened. Was Seonghwa really a threat, or was it all in his head? Inside, his thoughts churned with jealousy. He couldn’t stand the thought of you investing so much time and energy into teaching and guiding him. The fact that Seonghwa also owned one of your dragons didn’t help either. 

“I don’t want you to get hurt,” Mingi said, his voice strained with emotion. His dark eyes bore into yours, searching for any sign of the person he once knew, but all he found was a wall of resolve and pain.

“Hurt? You want to talk about being hurt?” you finally snapped, tears stinging your eyes. The raw emotion in your voice was searing, revealing the depth of your own pain and anguish. 

“I broke my fucking back, Mingi. You betrayed me and left when I was at my lowest point. You don’t get to tell me what it’s like to be hurt!” Your hands trembled, your chest heaving with the effort to keep your emotions in check.

Hurt. That’s what it boiled down to. You wanted to hurt him as much as he hurt you. And you were going to use his biggest insecurities against him. 

You knew that he worked tirelessly, pushing himself to the brink, yet it never seemed enough. He could’ve easily taken up Lord Choi’s offer to train him alongside San, but Mingi didn’t believe in handouts. 

Every time Seonghwa was mentioned, Mingi felt overshadowed. His insecurities bubbled to the surface whenever he was compared to everyone’s favorite golden boy. It made him feel like he was constantly fighting a losing battle while trying to prove his worth in the racing world.

“I–” the words dying in his throat as he struggled to find a response.

“Y/N! There you are!” Seonghwa interjected frantically, striding towards the both of you. He stood tall in a black suit, the red and gold accents intricately forming delicate patterns along the lapels and cuffs, giving the outfit an almost royal appearance. 

You blinked back the unshed tears, grateful for the interruption. “Your grace,” you breathed out a sigh of relief as you bowed deeply, the tension in your body easing slightly. Seonghwa’s arrival was a welcome distraction from the emotional turbulence you were experiencing. 

“Quickly!” He suddenly grabbed you by the shoulders and spun you towards the estate. “General Choi is losing a debate to Lord Kim about the Great Wyrm War! The General has specifically requested your assistance to save the day!” His urgency was almost comical.

“R-Right,” you nodded. You could feel Mingi’s eyes on you, but you didn’t dare to look back as you hurried off. Seonghwa watched your figure retreat into the grand hall, a small smile playing on his lips.

He turned towards Mingi, raising a brow. His gaze was steady and expectant, clearly waiting for him to acknowledge his presence. After a tense moment, Mingi forced himself to speak. “Lord Park,” he greeted stiffly.

Seonghwa stepped closer towards the rival dragon rider, his demeanor threatening. “Questions about my hiring practices should be directed towards me. My team is off limits,” he said, his tone deceptively light but carrying an unmistakable edge.

The air between them crackled with unresolved tension, each man standing his ground. Mingi’s anger simmered beneath the surface, but he held his tongue, knowing that now wasn’t the time for further confrontation. Without another word, he spun on his heel, stalking away, his irritation evident in every step. 

Seonghwa watched him go, a smile never leaving his face despite the silent warning in his darkened eyes.

You wandered the halls of the expansive estate, kicking yourself for not asking Seonghwa about Hongjoong and San’s whereabouts. The grand corridors, lined with portraits of stern ancestors and ornate tapestries, seemed to stretch endlessly. Each step you took echoed through the vast space, the sound swallowed by the high ceilings and distant corners.

You slumped down against the wall, bringing your knees to your chest, your head and feet aching from the night’s sudden turn of events. The coldness from the marble flooring and distant sound of a clock were the only things keeping you grounded amidst your chaotic interaction with Mingi. 

“Found you.” 

Startled, you looked up to find Seonghwa standing next to you. The soft, silvery glow of the moon emphasized the elaborate gold detailing of his suit jacket, making the intricate embroidery shimmer in the light. The structured shoulders and red trim cast sharp shadows, adding to his commanding presence. You noticed the strands of his updo framing his face, their delicate curves softened by the moonlight.

“How’d you find me so quickly?”

“I’m Lord of this House, I have eyes and ears everywhere,” he replied with a smile, his tone both reassuring and slightly teasing as he settled next to you. 

"Are you allowed to concern yourself with such...lowborn matters?" you chuckled patting the empty space next to you. You gather the skirt of your dress and scoot over to make room for him. The attempt at humor was a weak one, but it was all you could muster in your moment of vulnerability. 

“Perhaps not,” he settled beside you, the warmth of his body a welcome contrast to the chill of the marble floor. “Though you are no ordinary lowborn.”

“Didn’t you threaten to ruin my life the first time we met?” you snickered, stealing a glance at his strong profile, the sharp angles softened by the concern etched on his brow.

“Touche, but...you did accuse me of being desperate,” he admitted with a sigh. His eyes met yours, and for a moment, the world outside ceased to exist. A comfortable silence settled between you, the kind that spoke volumes without uttering a single word. The glow of the moonlight casting an intimate cocoon around you both.

Seonghwa watched you closely. He had always been struck by your boldness, the way you marched up to him the first time you met, the way you persisted in supporting his training despite your body’s reluctance to get back into the saddle. To him, your strength was not just in your quick wit, but in your unwavering spirit.

“You didn’t have to give me an exit,” you finally said, breaking the silence. 

“I wasn’t going to allow his disrespect to go unchecked,” he replied, his tone firm yet gentle. “Song Mingi’s actions were inexcusable, and I won’t tolerate such behavior on my grounds.”

“Chivalry isn’t dead, after all,” you murmured, a small smile tugging at the corners of your lips. 

“I’m also sorry about your back,” he added, a bit awkwardly, his concern evident despite his attempt to sound casual. 

You touched the back of your nape, trying to downplay the severity of the accident. “Ah well, it shouldn’t have happened. It was my fault after all.” The pain of the memory was a dull throb that you tried to ignore, a constant reminder of that fateful day.

“Accidents happen. It's not fair to carry that burden alone." He shifts slightly, his shoulder brushing against yours. "What matters is how we move forward."

Seonghwa’s unexpected kindness stirred something in your heart, leaving you feeling both intrigued and comforted. It was disarming, to say the least, as if a veil had been lifted, allowing you to see the true Seonghwa—a man who, despite his power and status, was not above showing vulnerability and concern. 

“Thank you, your grace,” you said quietly, conveying the gratitude and sincerity you felt. 

“Seonghwa.” he corrected.

“That is your name.”

“Just call me Seonghwa,” he insisted, “Besides, ‘your grace’ makes me sound like an old man.”

You softened at his words, and nodded slightly, acknowledging the change in your relationship. Your eyes met briefly and for a moment, the weight of the night’s events seemed to lift.

As it turns out, Hongjoong and General Choi San were in the midst of a heated debate, though it certainly was not about the Great Wyrm War.

“Look at these dog-eared pages!” Hongjoong exclaimed, his hands waving in exasperation. “It’s like you’re trying to destroy it on purpose.”

“It's just a book. It’s meant to be used, not kept in that dust pile like some museum artifact.”

“Just a book? This is a rare first edition!”

San stuck out his tongue. “Well, at least I’m actually reading it, unlike someone who just likes to collect them and never opens them.”

“You take that back!” the elder shot back, his face turning red with indignation. “I read all my books, thank you very much! And I treat them with the respect they deserve.”

<< iii | v >>

a/n: this might be the last chapter for a while as i'll be traveling and seeing the boys in Tacoma next weekend! i'm so excited

taglist: @litolmochi @syubseokie

vivrant thing (jwy) | four.

—SPOTIFY PLAYLIST / SERIES MASTERLIST

—SUMMARY: after getting into a little accident, wooyoung decides to do his sister a favor by pretending to be your date at the company summer party. as soon as the night ends, wooyoung would go back to his usual routine of hanging out with his boys, keeping his distance from committed relationships and being a typical brother to jiwoo. except, the favor comes with more than what wooyoung expects and he finds you occupying his mind more than usual. 

—PAIRING: jung wooyoung x f. reader

—GENRE: (18+ - minors dni) bestfriend’s brother au | fluff, angst, smut

—WORD COUNT: 6.2k

—CHAPTER CONTENT / WARNINGS: cussing, mature language/sexually implied content, angst angst angst, accusations are being thrown, jiwoo is mean, wooyoung is angry, hongjoong tryna play peacemaker, oc is sad, crying, its kinda a mess??, some insecurities coming to surface, mentions of past relationships and wooyoung's fuckboy history

One thing you also don't expect at Jiwoo's family lunch is how incredibly tense and awkward you and Wooyoung are. Maybe you need to wake up a little more and sit with your reality, but you surely hate the feeling it brings. It's almost obvious how you both freeze at the sight of each other, the both of you trying your hardest to keep it together but avoid eye contact.

Wooyoung's first mistake was keeping you [somewhat] at a distance after the party. Truthfully, he was scared as he sorted through his thoughts— not really sure how to make sense of any of it. Even though, he knew deep down that he did have newfound feelings for you and it wasn't something he could ignore. It wasn't like anything he's felt before, and he knew it'd only grow despite him trying to push it aside to buy him more time.

Wooyoung's second mistake was leaving you that morning without saying much afterwards. Leaving you and him in limbo. Though, this was the one core moment when he could honestly and truthfully say his feelings grew for you. He was locked in, and there was no going back. He should've told you right then and there instead of making you feel like one of them.

One of his hookups, his tap-n-dash's, his toot-it-n-boot-it's. 

You were not that. He meant every word he said to you that night, and he should've fucking told you. Now, he's stuck with not knowing how to do it after some time has passed.

—FLASHBACK

Wooyoung's eyes flutter open to the sun beaming into your studio, causing him to squint and shift a bit in his position. He tries not move too much when he realizes your back is pressed against him, and he's got an arm around you. Luckily, the movements don't wake you and Wooyoung can't help but smile to himself at how tired you seem to be. He snuggles against you for a few more minutes, giving you tiny kisses on your shoulder, the back of your head. His hand gives your side a soft squeeze, and he finds that this is how he'd like to wake up every morning.

With you, in particular.

But as equally as the thought is exciting, it is also frightening. Because every moment seems to make this more and more real and he's not sure how to act. So, he freezes. Those 'few more minutes' are suddenly over, and he's slipping himself out of your bed gently. He needs time to figure out what to say and how to say it without sounding like an idiot. He slips into his clothes and finds a stack of post-its nearby, scribbling a quick note to leave on your nighstand to at least let you know he's thinking about you. He is, he truly is. He doesn't wanna rip himself off you, but he has to cause he needs time—

morning cute stuff! text me when you wake up. had to run off cause im shy and don't want you to see my morning face lol jk need to meet up with san for a workout. talk to you later! hope you slept well :)

Which, isn't entirely a lie. He does need to meet San for a workout, it's just hours later.

He darts out anyway, giving your door one last look before he heads to his car and begins his journey home. When you wake about 15 minutes after he leaves, your heart drops when you realize Wooyoung isn't behind you anymore. You were giving him the benefit of the doubt, thinking he might be locked away in the bathroom.

But, nothing.

His clothes are gone.

Wooyoung is gone.

And although the note leaves a small smile on your face, you can't ignore the way your chest tightens knowing he left in somewhat of a hurry; at least, before you could wake up. Was it because this was always how Wooyoung was? Did he really mean everything he said last night?

Or were you just like them?

The thoughts don't make it any easier on you, and you've swallowed the lump in your throat in an attempt to push the tears back. You can't help but feel hurt despite knowing how Wooyoung was. You weren't any different, and you shouldn't have relied on that. You shouldn't have gotten so comfortable, you shouldn't have opened up to him the way you did.

You were a favor to Wooyoung, nothing more, nothing less.

jiwoo: goodmorning to my baby!!!

jiwoo: sorry i didnt text you last night after dinner, we can catch up later!

jiwoo: come with me to my family lunch tomorrow? we can have a girls day after since i feel like its been so long

jiwoo: we can get our nails done and go shopping then just cry over our favorite movies!!

Then, the reality hits you even more. You're gonna have to tell Jiwoo what happened because even if you try to hide it, you're terrible at lying and Jiwoo will catch on eventually. She'll know something has changed, she'll know something has hurt you.

And you're not ready to tell her it's her own brother.

you: okay 😌 i'm down for lunch and a girls day tomorrow. i need it.

jiwoo: okay, yay! 💕 me too!! i'll pick you up around 11:30 tomorrow.

you: sounds good.

—END

"The most important people have arrived! Sorry to worry you guys. It was kinda traffic." Jiwoo says, greeting her family and San.

"No one asked." Wooyoung glares at her before making a face while she hugs him tightly. "Get off." He whines when she doesn't pry her arms around her brother right away, making her giggle mischievously. When she finally lets go and moves onto San, Wooyoung shifts his attention to you.

"Hey Y/N." He says with a pursed smile, bringing you in for a one-armed hug that feels forced and too stiff.

"Hi." You softly respond, avoiding all eye contact. It sucks, it sucks, it sucks. You didn't end up texting him that morning. As much as you wanted to, you didn't wanna look sad and desperate even though you longed for Wooyoung's company. You spent time with your grandpa to get your mind off of it, but it was difficult. He didn't take the chance to text you either, so that told you more than you needed to know.

Sometimes silence can be the most deafening.

You scurry along to say hello to San before greeting their parents, back to hiding behind Jiwoo as you all wait to be seated.

"Where's Hongjoong?"

"Not here because it's a girls day after this." Jiwoo links her arm with yours as she follows her parents into the restaurant when they're called, Wooyoung and San following behind.

"Girls day? What are you ladies doing afterwards?" Their father asks as all of you settle at a round table. You fall in between Wooyoung and Jiwoo, of course, and you almost wanna tell his sister to switch just for your own sake.

But, you don't. You suck it up. 

You sit. He sits.

It's quiet.

Wooyoung grabs chopsticks from the center container and passes them out to his parents, San, then you and Jiwoo. He doesn't really say anything else, he can't really look at you just like you can't with him.

And all of this is so awkward for no reason.

Well, there are reasons, but it doesn't have to be this way and Wooyoung is constantly calling himself dumb for creating this divide, this distance. For making you feel this way. All he wants to do is hug you, kiss you a few times, hold your hand. Be all cute with you.

He's an idiot.

"Gonna get our nails done and go shop."

"I'm surprised Yeosang didn't come." Wooyoung pauses as he's skimming through the dim sum menu, hoping you don't catch the way his jaw slightly clenches. How he almost rolls his eyes at the sound of his name. He doesn't have a reason to dislike Yeosang at all, but he finds himself getting irked knowing that Yeosang has feelings for you. He shouldn't, though. He can't claim you like that, especially if he's being dumb and not knowing how to be upfront about his feelings properly.

"Oh, no. That probably won't happen for awhile." Jiwoo says.

"Aw, why not? Is he just busy nowadays?"

"Busy sulking." Jiwoo mutters playfully. "Didn't snag the girl of his dreams." She teases you and you roll your eyes.

"Stop that."

"He'll live." Wooyoung adds nonchalantly while him and San check off items on the list, and Jiwoo doesn't even bat an eye at the comment.

"What happened?" San whispers to Wooyoung and he furrows his brows at him. "Did Yeosang ask Y/N out or something?" But before Wooyoung can respond, his mom cuts in with the same question—

"Aw, no! Did he ask you out?" At this point, the waitress brings water and a kettle full of hot barley tea.

"Yeah, but we just decided to stay friends." You look at her so innocently Wooyoung can't fucking take it. Jesus Christ. Kinda reminds him of the other night.

"We, more like you." Jiwoo teases and you glare at her.

"Well, she was honest and I'm sure he appreciated it." Their father chimes in. "You don't ever wanna force anything, that's the number one rule." 

"If he truly values you and respects you as one of his good friends, he'll understand and won't treat you differently from before." Their mom adds. 

"That'll be awkward for them." San says lowly to Wooyoung just as he hands the checklist off to the waitress in passing.

"He's a grown ass man, he'll get over it. You win some, you lose some." San furrows his brows at Wooyoung's reaction. He truly can't help but notice that his bestfriend has been on edge ever since you and Jiwoo came. He's not sure he's ever seen Wooyoung so awkward and.. weird. And he knows you're pretty shy, but you're also acting very weird and.. avoidant?

"I guess so." Is all San says.

"Is there someone else?" Wooyoung almost chokes on his water. The heat instantly rises to your cheeks and you feel somewhat suffocated from the question alone. "Jesus, Wooyoung. I told you to drink slowly." Their mom adds. 

"Mother chismosa. All up in her business." Jiwoo laughs at Wooyoung's response.

"I'm just wondering! She's like my baby, too." She furrows her brows at her son before returning to you with a smile on her face. 

"Oh, um. No. There's no one else." You pause, missing the way Wooyoung is looking at you through his peripherals. "Just thought we're better off that way."

"I see. Well, you know Y/N, the right person will come in time. Don't rush it."

"Sometimes, I wish Wooyoung could find a nice girl like you." His dad chimes in. "He is a pain in the ass, though."

"I'm sorry, I'm confused. Did we gather around over some dim sum just to get on my ass? Did I miss the agenda?" Jiwoo and San snicker.

"Stop it, you're making him embarrassed." Their mom shifts her attention back to you. "Y/N, anyway. How's Papa been?" Jiwoo pours you more tea to drink.

"He's been okay. I spent the day with him yesterday. He hasn't been feeling the greatest, though."

"Oh? Is he sick?" You shrug.

"He seemed to be fine yesterday. He just says he's more tired lately, been feeling this on-and-off dull pain in his lower back. I told him we should go to the hospital, but he doesn't think it's a big deal. He thinks he just needs to keep exercising and stretching properly."

"I see. Otherwise he's been okay?"

"Mhm." You give their parents a small, toothless smile, tugging your turtleneck sweater up when you feel everyone's eyes on you for a second. "He's the same." Underneath the material are the little marks Wooyoung left, and they've barely started to fade away.

"That's good to hear. Please bring him by soon, we'd love to see him again." You nod.

"Girl, aren't you hot wearing that turtleneck?" Jiwoo tugs on the material and you kinda shimmy away from her grip.

"No, I'm okay."

"Is it just me then? Am I getting hot flashes already?" Her mom clicks her teeth and tells her to stop being so dramatic. At this point, the food is rolled in and placed on the table like a game of tetris. Everyone automatically digs in, passing food along until everyone's satisfied with their first serving. Usually by now, Wooyoung has at least teased you one way or another, cracked a joke or poked fun at you. That's how he typically is with you. Today, you're seeing a very different side of him, and you're not sure what you did wrong.

When you finish your food, you try to reach over for another piece of dimsum but it's a little further out than expected. Suddenly, Wooyoung grabs a few pieces and places it on your plate— still not making any eye contact with you.

He's so confusing.

You're not sure if you want it to be like this.

You quickly decide that you don't. You don't want to be this way with someone, you don't want someone to ever be unsure of you. You don't want someone to make you feel the slightest bit of doubt. Which, is crazy to think about. Because Yeosang could've been that person, but you were too busy wanting Wooyoung. You were too busy having feelings for Wooyoung, and even though you still feel guilty about the whole thing with Yeo, there was no way you could've forced yourself to feel a certain way.

Wishful thinking, perhaps?

At least, now you know, and you'll never allow yourself to do that shit ever again.

You continue to eat and engage in small conversation with Jiwoo and her parents, Wooyoung and San mostly in their own world together off to the side. He was seemed to be fine with San, and you don't know if you made it worse for you. You tried to push it to the back of your head, trying to tell yourself that you shouldn't feel this way. That you didn't need to be so hung up over Wooyoung. That you didn't do anything wrong.

Still hurts, though. You wonder if he'll ever talk to you again or bring it up.

When lunch is over, their parents pay for the bill and leave a hefty tip, passing out the little candies that were brought over with the receipt. Jiwoo quickly shuffles you away, thanking her parents for lunch before taking you down the street to a popular nail shop for your appointments. 

The nail shop is as busy as it gets on a Sunday, but you don't wait long before you and Jiwoo are seated at the spa chairs for the pedicures. Jiwoo starts to tell you about how her and Hongjoong are going on a last minute trip to Japan and that you were welcome to come along if you wanted. You've gone on little trips with Jiwoo and Hongjoong before, and they've never made you feel like a third wheel. But, you wonder when you'd get to go on trips with your own special someone, your person.

Would this change things in the future? When Jiwoo and her family invite you on their trips?

Would this change everything?

It makes you feel like you really should've thought about your decisions before letting things escalate that night. Everything feels like a hard ass lesson, and you hate it. Everything is reminding you of your recklessness, of how you relied so much on the way Wooyoung treated you at the party. You can't say you regret it though, but it's starting to feel like a mistake.

When you politely decline and tell her to have fun with her boyfriend, another tech comes to work on your hands, beginning your gel manicure while the other tech continues with your pedicure.

"Has Yeosang texted you?" You shake your head.

"No." You sigh. "We probably won't be the same for a bit. He did say he needed time."

"I'm sorry." Jiwoo looks at you with a small pout. "He'll be okay, though. I know he cares about you regardless."

"And I care about him, too. I just want us to be okay."

"Are you sure you don't wanna come with us? Leave this place for a few days. Work won't care if we're both off last minute, we have enough team members to cover." You chuckle.

"I'm good. Promise."

"What do you wanna do after? Should we shop, then pick up some takeout so we can watch our movies?"

"Sure. I do need to buy some new clothes. I haven't spoiled myself in a bit." She gasps dramatically.

"Same."

"You went shopping when we bought our dresses."

"And that was awhile ago." She shrugs. "I'm on the lookout for this thick zip-up jacket. My brother has one and I keep taking it from him. He keeps getting mad." You don't respond. "I hate to say it, but Wooyoung has taste. Sometimes."

"Hm." You hum.

"Did you notice Wooyoung being all quiet today? It's not like him."

"I guess so."

"Well, he was quieter than usual. It's so unlike him."

"Why don't you ask?"

"Because my brother won't say a thing. I could tell him all my problems, but he won't tell me most of his. You know this. I dunno if it's some kinda façade or front to maintain this strong, older brother image. I know things bother him, but I also know a lot of things don't. It's difficult to read him." Ain't that so, you think. He is terribly hard to read.

"Do you think it's over a girl?" You awkwardly ask, looking to see what her reaction is.

"Wooyoung sulking over a girl? I doubt it. I haven't seen him do that since him and his exes broke up, and that was years ago. I'm convinced stuff like this isn't worth it to Wooyoung anymore. I haven't seen him be different around anyone."

"Oh." 

"Yeah, well. Whatever. I'm sure he'll get over it."

"Yeah, I think so." You respond softly, which Jiwoo kinda catches on. She sees how quiet you've gotten and how you've managed to hide back in your shell— you probably tried not to make it so obvious, but as your bestfriend, it's easy to pick up on your switches, too.

It is a little odd, but she won't bother. She just wants to have a good girls day with you.

After the nail appointment, the both of you make your way down to the biggest mall in town to shop, especially for her trip. You find a few new outfits, one you can't wait to wear out and flaunt. Wooyoung briefly comes to mind, but you shake it off and correct yourself— because no, you're excited to wear and flaunt the new outfits for yourself. 

No one else.

You were genuinely happy for the first time today. You felt good about yourself.

Until tonight comes, and all of that goes out the window rather quickly.

When you get back to Jiwoo's apartment, the both of you are pretty exhausted from the long day being out and about. It's a little past 6pm when you drag yourselves in. You take a quick shower and wind down for the evening, changing into comfier clothes that you've packed in case you wanted to spend the night at Jiwoo's. You lay out the food on the living room coffee table while Jiwoo takes her shower. You've already decided on a lineup of movies tonight: Brown Sugar, The Wood, Love and Basketball. As you wait for Jiwoo to be finished, you scroll through your phone to see if there's been any new updates, new texts.

Nothing.

Though, you've noticed Wooyoung has posted on his Instagram story. You're not usually one to peep, but you are curious; you can't help yourself. For the most part, they're just random photos of the city, San. There are two photos that do catch your eye and you're not sure if Wooyoung meant to post this for a particular reason or just cause. The first photo that catches your eye is an old vintage poster of Spirited Away. It's alongside other vintage Studio Ghibli posters, but he posted this one in particular. The second photo is of the view. You remember that Wooyoung goes there to clear his mind. You wonder if San tagged along.

"What a day!" Jiwoo comes out of the bathroom, hair still damp. She rushes over and plops next to you on the floor in front of the coffee table and TV, sending Hongjoong a quick text. "Ready, babe?"

"Mhm." You nod, the both of you popping your lids to your bowls open as the movie begins. "Thank you for today."

"Of course, are you kidding?! I love a good girls day with my bestfriend." She smiles at you, digging into her food. You swallow the lump in your throat when the truth settles in the pit of your stomach, almost making you lose your appetite completely. She gives your arm a good squeeze. She's so happy— you can't believe you're gonna be the reason why all of that changes. You needed to be honest with her, if not yourself. 

Because what happened, happened. There was no going back to change it.

You give it a good hour or so, making sure the both of you have finished your food and are satisfied while you sit in your thoughts and determine it's probably a good time to talk to Jiwoo about everything. The night has settled, the climax of the movie has passed. You don't wanna wait too long, and you feel like you shouldn't; somehow hoping it'll lessen the damage, lessen the blow.

"Jiwoo." You poke her arm softly.

"Yeah?"

"Can we talk?"

"Sure, of course." She looks at you with concern, pausing the movie. "What's up, babe?"

"You know the other night, when I had dinner with Yeosang?"

"Mhm."

"There were other things I didn't get around to telling you."

"Did something else happen with him?" You look at her and you already feel the impending breakdown ready to take over in about 0.5 seconds.

"N-no. Not Yeosang." You physically shrink as you try to gain the courage to continue on.

"Huh?" Silence. "What is it, Y/N? What're you hiding from me?"

"I-I—" You feel tears welling up in your eyes. "Your brother. I meant to text you while I was drinking at the convenience store, but I accidentally texted your brother. He ended up swinging by and he walked me back home. A-and—" You pause, tears now slowly streaming down your cheeks and they seem to keep coming even with you constantly wiping them away.

"And, what?" Quite frankly, she knows where this is going. Jiwoo just doesn't wanna believe it. But, she has no choice when you hit her with the:

"We hung out for awhile, and things went further."

"Further as in?" You start to cry a little more. "Further as in.. what, Y/N?"

"Things just escalated so quickly, I'm—"

"Escalated? Did you sleep with my brother?" She's in utter disbelief and her tone says it all. She doesn't even need to hear a verbal response from you because your face completely gives it away.

"Jiwoo, I'm sorry. Things just happened and—"

"My brother? Out of all people? Was that why you were so quiet today?" More silence. "Y/N, what were you thinking?! He's no good for you! All he's gonna do is hurt you like he does with every girl that gets tangled up with him. He doesn't care, he's—" She stands as she keeps going, but you aren't hanging onto one word she's saying. You just wanna get this over with, you just wanna get away. You don't wanna hear what you already know. It's your fault; she told you so. You should've known.

"Jiwoo." You plead with your eyes, hoping she stops. It doesn't make anything better, and you feel like a child getting scolded.

"What did he say to you?" She pauses. "What did he say to you? Did he say some sweet shit to get into your pants or what? Were you really that naive?"

"Jiwoo, enough. Please." You cry. "He didn't have to say anything to me, things just happened and it wasn't just Wooyoung. I played a part in this, too." You're not really sure why you're explaining it the way that you are, but you feel as if you have no choice at this point.

"Yeah." She says, almost mockingly. "So, what now? Has he even talked to you after that?" You shake your head pathetically and your tears fall even more. "Exactly, I thought so. Because that's who he is, Y/N. I thought you knew that! He's not gonna change. Now you're here crying over him like the rest of them usually do!" You cry harder, feeling like you're about to be shoved in a corner for timeout. "You can't tell me you actually have feelings for him." She scoffs.

"I'm sorry." Is all you say. What you're sorry for, you're not sure. For yourself? For how things quickly unfolded? For having feelings for her brother?

All of the above?

"Did he even tell you he had feelings for you? Did he tell you anything before he ran off and got what he wanted from you?" You shake your head. "Unbelievable." She grabs her keys and her purse. "You should go."

"I'm sorry. I thought—"

"Please, Y/N. I need some time to process this."

"Where are you going?"

"To my brother's. Quite frankly, I can't look at the both of you right now, but I need to talk to him." You shake your head.

"It's not gonna change anything."

"It's not, but he also deserves to hear it since you're here crying in my living room about it." She furrows her brows in deep disappointment before giving you one last look. "Thought you knew better than that." She turns on her heel and leaves you in her living room. You cry, and you cry. You cry that you don't even know what you're crying over, what you're feeling hurt over.

You cry because one bestfriend is mad at you, and the other bestfriend needs his time away from you.

You cry because you have feelings for Wooyoung.

You cry because you feel so naive and stupid for admitting it, for going along with everything.

Were you wrong for feeling the way you do over him?

You quietly clean up and gather your things, sadly throwing the duffle bag over your shoulder as you lock her door from the inside and walk out. Your head hangs low when you start to walk to the nearest bus stop, taking the long way back home so that you can clear your mind and stop by Papa's apartment on the way over. Honestly, you don't blame Jiwoo for acting the way she did. You knew she was very protective of you, and you knew she was coming from a good place. You kinda just wish everything went down a little differently.

So, you continue quietly. Tears streaming down. Phone tucked away and on silent. Shutting down and ignoring the rest of the world like you always do when things go awry.

"Baby, don't you think you should just simmer down first before talking to your brother?" Hongjoong says over the bluetooth in her car.

"Simmer down for what? I can't believe he'd do that to her."

"Well, you don't really know if he actually had bad intentions. It does take two to tango. You ever think maybe, he's always had it for her and just never realized until he had to be her date? He probably needed the time. I don't think Wooyoung would mess around with Y/N like that."

"Kim Hongjoong. Aren't you supposed to be on my team right now?"

"I am, that's why I'm trying to tell you this is probably not a good idea."

"He was wrong, okay! She's naive, he knows that." She groans, causing Hongjoong to sigh.

"There were better ways to go about it, sure. I just don't think he's intentionally trying to hurt her like you think he is."

"I'll hang up in 5 seconds, Hongjoong." He clicks his teeth.

"Where is Y/N anyway? Thought you two were having a girls day."

"We were until she dropped all of this on me. She's probably on her way home."

"Why did you just leave her?"

"Because I'm angry and I can't deal right now."

"Then, go back home. You can yell at your brother any day, but you shouldn't leave her."

"I'll call you later. I'm at Wooyoung's."

"Jiwoo—" But before Hongjoong can say anything else, Jiwoo is ending the call and shutting off the car. She slams the driver's door and heads into the lobby, furiously pressing the elevator button to bring her up to the 6th floor. When she gets off and heads to his door, she repeatedly knocks until she hears shuffling on the other end.

"What the fuck is wrong with you!" Jiwoo storms into Wooyoung's apartment as soon as he swings the door open. He knew this would happen at some point— he just didn't think it'd be tonight, exactly.

"You really don't have to yell—"

"My bestfriend!? Why would you sleep with her! She's not one of your fucking girls to toy around with, Wooyoung!" He's actually appalled at the way Jiwoo is coming at him right now. Most of the time, he can handle her. Today is just one of those days where he can't, and he feels himself losing it a lot quicker due to the sensitivity of the subject. He hates how Jiwoo looks at him this way, and he hates how she's so quick to badmouth him, especially when it comes to you.

What if he truly, truly cared about you?

"No one said she was!" Wooyoung matches her tone and San is awkwardly sitting off to the side, unsure of what to do. He didn't think he'd ever hear it this way, let alone didn't think Wooyoung would ever sleep with his sister's bestfriend. It wasn't a secret that Wooyoung thought you were cute, attractive. He just never crossed those lines because he didn't think he should, especially with the way he had tendencies to be a dick.

San is so unsure of how to take all of this.

Did Wooyoung just cave after the party? Did he plan for this to happen? How did he even get you to do all that with him?

"What else can I call it? Why would you take advantage of her—"

"Slow your fucking roll, Jiwoo. I never said I was just using Y/N for anything, nor do you have the right to assume that." Wooyoung says seriously. It's true, and he finds himself hurt at the wild accusations Jiwoo is spewing out. He wasn't always good, but he wasn't entirely bad. He's made some terrible decisions and acted poorly in certain situations, but he never failed to  learn from his mistakes and be the bigger person about it. He'd be honest, and in the end, he would never let his pride win just to get away with it.

"What am I supposed to think with your amazing track record?"

"I don't care if I made some mistakes or fucked around in the past, you don't get to say all that just because you're angry."

"All of a sudden you're good and pure when it comes to Y/N." She groans. "I swear to god, Wooyoung. The favor was supposed to be just a favor, not a window for you to add her to your roster—"

"Aye, stop while you're ahead." Wooyoung cuts her off. "You don't get to come into my space and yell at me for shit you know nothing about. Stop painting me like that, Jiwoo. I'm not this shitty person you like to think I am. For real. I don't appreciate it. You're spitting out all these crazy accusations when you have nothing but my past to refer to. I was never planning to 'put her on my roster' or treat her that way, I never meant to hurt her in any way. It's fucking wild you'd assume that."

"Then, why haven't you talked to her if you wanna claim this is different, Wooyoung?"

"Because I just need time to sort through my shit, okay! As much as I wanna talk to her, I don't know how and I'm trying to figure it out, that's all. Sorry. I'm not tryna mess this up more than I might've already done."

"You're unbelievable." Jiwoo glares at him. "Do you have feelings for her or not? It's a simple yes or no. Stop dragging it out so unnecessarily—"

"No. We're not doing this right now."

"Wooyoung!"

"I don't care! That's not for you to decide, so don't push it." He says sternly. "I'm not answering your question cause we're not talking about this right now, not when we're both angry. We're gonna go in circles like we always do and we're not gonna get anywhere. So no, I'm not saying anything to you, especially until you stop yelling and accusing me of things." He glares at her. "I sure as hell hope you didn't come at Y/N this way because she didn't do anything wrong. You don't get to talk to her like that either." He pauses. "Where is she?"

"I told her to go home."

"Oh, so you left her alone just to do this? The hell is wrong with you?"

"Can't I say the same shit about you? Leaving her that morning without saying a word." She scoffs while he bites his tongue, hoping she'd leave after getting this out of her system. "I thought so. You better fix this properly." Is all Jiwoo says before she turns on her heel and slams his door shut.

"And you should fix your attitude while you're at it!" Wooyoung yells. He groans loudly and plops onto the couch with a loud sigh. "Sorry." Is all he says to San, who is still dumbfounded over the argument that just went down.

"It's all good." Wooyoung is running a hand down his face before tossing his phone onto the table and resting his head back against the couch. As much as he loves to push his sister's buttons, he doesn't enjoy it when they fight. He doesn't like it when they're heated and angry at each other. He knows she can't help but protect you [rightfully so], but he hates the way she treats him like he has zero common sense. He wouldn't do that to you, especially out of all people. 

You would never be just another girl to him.

"So, what happened exactly?" Wooyoung lets out a breath.

"It was the other night, after she had dinner with Yeosang. She meant to text Jiwoo while she was drinking at the convenience store, but she accidentally texted me. I swung by to make sure she was okay, and things just escalated that night."

"That's why you two were weird around each other today."

"Yeah, but that's mainly my fault. I ran off when I shouldn't have. I didn't talk to her the way I wanted to because I froze. I haven't really felt like this in a long time and it scared me. It's a dumb excuse."

"Woo, are you sure this isn't just a phase or something?"

"A phase?" San shrugs. "You're not serious, right?"

"I don't know. I just have to ask. I feel like you've had moments when you thought you liked someone, but it wasn't like that."

"San." Wooyoung almost looks hurt when he turns to him. His expression says all.

"Hm?" Wooyoung shakes his head.

"It's not like that at all. I-I genuinely have feelings for Y/N. I really, really like her."

"Oh." San looks at him, a mixture of confusion and concern plastered on his face. "Oh, okay. So it is like that."

"Fuck." Wooyoung groans. "I fucked up. I should've just told her. Fuck!" He repeats, now pacing around his living room. San doesn't even respond because he's not sure how to. He watches as his bestfriend runs his hand through his hair, quickly texting away before making a call.

Wooyoung's third mistake is letting this linger. Now, everyone, including you and his sister, are continuing to paint him as this bad guy; a bad guy that he has a tendency to be, had a past history of being. But, with you, he's different. He needs you to know that. He should've done this differently.

He just needs to be honest, and he knows he can't put this off any longer. It's time.

Wooyoung feels the inner panic when he tries to call you a few times, but you don't answer. He sends a few texts asking where you're at. If you're safe. If he can come see you so he can talk to you because he really needs to.

wooyoung: y/n. i know you probably don't wanna talk to me right now, but i really wanna explain.

wooyoung: i'm so sorry y/n, i fucked up. can i come see you so we can talk about this properly?

wooyoung: at least let me know if you're okay and safe if you don't wanna talk tonight.

And you see the missed calls and texts from Wooyoung. But, they're overshadowed by the missed call notifications from Papa. You barely get a chance to let it marinate, especially when you approach his apartment and all you're welcomed with is chaos.

Bright lights. 

"Papa?" You walk closer to his apartment, seeing the paramedics coming out with your grandfather on a stretcher. "Papa!" You cry, pushing your way through them to get a good look at your grandpa. He's conscious, barely clinging onto it, though. He gives you a small smile as you hold his hand and climb into the truck, sitting right by his side. He called because he needed you, and you weren't there. You weren't there because you were too busy justifying your actions to Jiwoo, you weren't there because you were too busy trying to find out how to tell her you had feelings for her brother.

You weren't there, and he's here.

Wooyoung is the last thing on your mind right now.

—TAGLIST: @asjkdk @interweab @woojirang @svintsandghosts @cheolliehugs @persphonesorchid @mxnsxngie @jycas @cowboydk @heyitsmetonid @ldysmfrst @intaksfav @wooyoungsbrat @hyukssunflower @yunhoswrldddd @gotthicbish @thespiffynerd @jaytheatiny @yoonrixx @aurorajoye @i-love-ateez

vivrant thing (jwy) | three.

—SPOTIFY PLAYLIST / SERIES MASTERLIST

—SUMMARY: after getting into a little accident, wooyoung decides to do his sister a favor by pretending to be your date at the company summer party. as soon as the night ends, wooyoung would go back to his usual routine of hanging out with his boys, keeping his distance from committed relationships and being a typical brother to jiwoo. except, the favor comes with more than what wooyoung expects and he finds you occupying his mind more than usual. 

—PAIRING: jung wooyoung x f. reader

—GENRE: (18+ - minors dni) bestfriend’s brother au | fluff, angst, smut

—WORD COUNT: 6.6k

—CHAPTER CONTENT / WARNINGS: cussing, implied sexual content/mature language, dinner w/ yeosang!, feelings are laid out oof, alcohol consumption & slight intoxication, a bit more of jiwoo vs. wooyoung, use of pet names (princess, love, baby girl, baby), lots and lots of kissing, making out, mentions of marking, some dry humping, unprotected sex, slow sweet sex??, wooyoung pulls out 🫢

So, you agree to the dinner with Yeosang but you don't expect how terrible it ends up playing out.

At first, it starts off well.

It felt like dinner wouldn't be so bad, and you enjoyed seeing Yeosang being his usual self from the car ride up to the restaurant. When he pulls into a spot in the parking lot and helps you out of the car, there is a bit of a difference in Yeosang's attitude. He slides his hand into yours as he leads the way into the restaurant and as much as you adore your bestfriend, it feels incredibly unnatural. 

It surely doesn't feel like Wooyoung's, but you shouldn't be thinking about that right now.

He continues to loosely hold your hand until the host brings you to a table near the back end of the restaurant. You didn't think tonight's dinner would be so fancy, but you were in your business casual attire straight out of work; it ended up working out well in the end. You scoot into the booth, with Yeosang on the other side. He immediately orders a bottle of white wine, which isn't really to your liking as you've learned, but you'll make do with what you have— especially to get through this dinner.

You order appetizers along with your main courses, indulging in good conversation with Yeosang as he tells you work updates and how he's being dragged to this really important meeting over the weekend with the board of directors by his team lead. 

It's all good. It's all fun and casual, until it isn't.

Meanwhile, Jiwoo stops by her brother's apartment to drop off some sushi from his favorite Japanese restaurant. It's her way of saying 'thank you' without actually having to say it out loud.

"What now?" Wooyoung swings his door open to see his sister standing there with a bag of food.

"Hi to you, too." She drops it on his kitchen counter. "Bought you food from Sushi Kashiwa." 

"Aw, just say it." He pretends to pout while she gives him a disgusted look and unties the bag.

"No. Besides, I bought myself some food and am gonna enjoy it right here." She lays out the containers and grabs her own. "My friends decided to leave me out of a very important dinner tonight."

"What are you talking about?" He pops open the lid to his sushi container and wastes no time digging in.

"Y/N went to dinner with Yeosang. I guess to talk about stuff going on between them, I don't know." Wooyoung pauses mid-chew, the statement hitting him right in his gut. He's not sure why he's sad— maybe he's right after all. Maybe this just ended up being a temporary one night thing that would eventually wash away.

Sucks it doesn't necessarily feel that way for Wooyoung.

He can't assume, though. Hopefully, you're talking to Yeosang and giving him the honest 'i think we should just stay friends' talk instead of the 'let's just see where this goes' talk. He'd appreciate the universe if it could give him this one thing; he'll stop running his parents' last nerve and will never look at a booty ever again.

Maybe.

"Oh." Is all Wooyoung says before stuffing another piece into his mouth. "Why would you even be there, Jiwoo? That doesn't concern you."

"Anything with my friends concerns me."

"Let them talk it out without your loud, nosey ass interrupting." She rolls her eyes, scrolling through her phone as she also continues to eat.

"I haven't gotten any new texts from her. I wonder if it's going well. Maybe they're gonna explore this after all."

"Who says?" Wooyoung responds a little too quickly, a little too sharply, for his liking. His sister doesn't seem to catch on, though. That's great.

"I dunno, beats me. I'm just taking all angles into consideration."

"Stop projecting. She seemed to be pretty set on her decision at the party."

"You never know." She says in a sing-song tone that irks Wooyoung a little more than usual this evening. "You're right, though. She is set on her decision. I just hope he takes it well." She sets her phone aside. "Anyway. How'd you like the party?"

"Gotta admit, it was fun."

"You really looked like Y/N's date. I had a few people ask me if you two were dating."

"Uh, I mean I was her date? And why would they ask when I already told them yes?" He jokes, just to push his sister's buttons.

"No way." Jiwoo continues to eat away at her food, texting Hongjoong in the midst of it. "Y/N is too good for you."

"No one is too good for anyone. Don't speak on shit you don't know."

"I know her!"

"And I know her, too!"

"I know her the best." Wooyoung rolls his eyes.

"Still doesn't mean you know everything about her."

"Ew, why are you getting so defensive tonight?" He shakes his head, feeling the irritation within him grow the more Jiwoo presses it. He knows he isn't the best man to walk this Earth, but he also knows he'd be good to you. Good for you. He's been thinking about it a lot and he hates that he is— none of this makes sense to him, but he knows he'd be good.

"Don't you have to go see Hongjoong?"

"Once he's off, yeah." Jiwoo sips on her water. "What're you doing tonight? Getting into more shit with Choi San?"

"No, he's actually visiting his parents."

"Hm." She hums. "No booty call coming over?"

"No. Even if there was, you would not be getting that information." She scoffs.

"Grow up, Wooyoung."

"Grow up, Wooyoung." He mocks her. "Says the one who made the wild claim based off of nothing."

"You're so annoying." She tosses her sushi container into his trash before washing her cup of water. Despite their usual bickering, Jiwoo stays for a bit longer until Hongjoong texts her and lets her know he's finally off of work after putting in some overtime. Jiwoo helps tidy up Wooyoung's space before she's waving goodbye [aka flipping him off] and slamming his door shut. Wooyoung plops back onto his couch with the remainder of his food resting on the coffee table, scrolling through his phone. He goes through your texts, wondering if he should say anything or keep silent. He smiles to himself when he sees the pictures you've passed along from the photographer. He sees you've posted the picture with him on your Instagram and it tugs at his heart because not only do you rarely use Instagram, but you took that opportunity to post your pictures from the party— including the one where you've got your hand resting on his chest while he has an arm around you. He was happy to see you happy and comfortable. Having fun. 

You glowed. 

He'll never forget it.

—OLD TEXTS

you: hi! they uploaded the pics from the party!

you: *sends a group of pics at once*

wooyoung: yo goddamn!? we look good!

wooyoung: you look so pretty. 😍

you: 😀 stop !!

wooyoung: i'm so serious, good LORD. 😮‍💨

you: i'm blocking you.....

wooyoung: woah now, hey i'm kiddddding....

wooyoung: not really! but don't block me! i just can't help it!

you: you're too much 😂

wooyoung: can i post these?

you: go for it!

wooyoung: thank you ☺️

He sighs as he reaches the end of the thread.

He won't say anything. He'll let this unfold as it should, but it doesn't mean he can't be sad about it. Cause he sure as hell is and he's a bit anxious. Hopefully, you'll tell Yeosang the truth. Hopefully, you won't force yourself into anything you don't want or feel uncomfortable with.

As for you, the dinner really takes its turn for the worse after you and Yeosang eat away at your main meals, a pregnant silence falling between you two after a good hour of just talking and yapping away about life. You already knew it was coming at this point, you were just hoping you'd buy a little more time [as if you could put it off even more]. 

"So." He says awkwardly to cut the silence.

"Mhm?"

"Did you really enjoy the party?"

"I did. Did you?"

"Yeah. I just—" He looks at you with his head cocked to the side. "I was just surprised seeing you with Wooyoung." You pause before poking at your pasta and taking a small bite. 

"Oh yeah, it was relatively last minute."

"Jiwoo's plan?"

"Why do you say that? Do you genuinely think Wooyoung wouldn't go with me?" You ask, a little offended at the way he sounds cause even though it was clearly planned and arranged, the insinuation from Yeosang doesn't hurt any less. 

"No, not like that— I'm sorry, it came out of nowhere and caught me off guard. That's all." You cock a brow up. 

"It just happened that way. Wooyoung wanted to go and I wanted to go in the end." Is all you respond with, chugging your second glass of wine before pouring yourself more. You really don't like the taste of this white wine either, but you'll take it cause it's better than sitting here without an ounce of alcohol to push you through. Give you more courage to finish the evening on a decent note, to be honest. "I had a really fun time, regardless."

"I saw." He pauses. "I wish you would've at least told me instead of showing up like that." 

"I'm sorry."

"I think it's time for me to be honest and stop watching from the sidelines because I.. really like you, Y/N." His shoulders droop just as he sets his fork and knife down neatly onto the plate. You take the last bite of your meal before sipping on more wine to wash it down.

"I should have told you, but I didn't want to hurt you. Even if I did tell you, it wouldn't have changed anything."

"It wouldn't? Why wouldn't it have changed anything? I thought we might've had a chance." He's confused. He looks like he was expecting a completely different outcome, and that might've been your fault for not telling him right away. But, the moment is here now and you know you can't push it off any longer.

"No. I just.. I just can't, Yeo. I'm sorry." You barely get yourself to respond out of fear. You knew Yeosang wasn't the type to react— if anything, he'd be the most understanding. Though, it doesn't change the fact that you were still scared. You felt bad. You didn't want to hurt him, and you wanted to avoid this confrontation as much as possible even though you knew you needed to face it sooner than later. "I truthfully think we're good with where we're at, and I don't think we should mess that up. I love the way we are as good friends, bestfriends, and that's how I've always seen us." You can see the disappointment growing on his face every second, but he's trying hard to keep it under wraps while he briefly waves the waitress down for the check.

"C-can I ask? You can be honest." You silently nod. "Is it Wooyoung?" You shake your head.

"It was never about Wooyoung. Just us. Well, me. You're amazing, and you deserve the best. You deserve someone who is sure about you and who will reciprocate those feelings to no end. I'm sorry that I can't be that person, but at the same time, I know I can be your friend just like I always have been. That's what I can give you, and I hope you understand." You tell him softly. "I'm sorry." You repeat, feeling the tears brimming your bottom lids. "I should've opened up earlier. I really hope this doesn't change things between us."

"It won't, but I hope you understand it'll take me some time to move past it. I'm sorry for assuming or for— yeah." He shakes his thoughts away.

"Take all the time you need." He gives you a tiny, toothless smile.

"Anyway." Yeosang signs off on the receipt before tucking his card back into his wallet and standing. "Let's get you home."

"Okay." You shimmy out of the booth to head out of the restaurant. This time, Yeosang doesn't hold your hand. In fact, he trails behind you, keeping at a safe distance. You can immediately see the change— how stiff and awkward he's become. You don't blame him for it; he's hurting and you know he needs his space more than anything. 

You can't wait to get home.

The ride is fucking awful. It's the most quiet you've seen Yeosang. The most closed-off and serious he's ever been towards you. His hand is clutching the wheel tightly, but the music is comforting enough to fill the void. You continue to look out of the passenger's window, keeping to yourself until Yeosang asks about your plans for the rest of the weekend. There isn't much going on for you, so that conversation dies quickly. Luckily for you, Yeosang is about to pull up to your street. He stops the car by your building, shifting the gear to park before helping you out of the car. You give him a small, sympathetic smile before pulling him into a hug— giving his back a gentle rub.

"Sleep well, alright? I'll see you next week."

"You too." With that, he walks off, waiting until you at least unlock and crack your door open. When you get a whiff of your candle that you lit up earlier in the morning, you realize you don't really wanna stay home right now; to sulk, to drown in your thoughts alone, to have to listen to the loudness in a quiet space. So, you shut the door again, head back down the steps and walk to the convenience store nearby. You grab a bottle of yogurt soju, along with your favorite chips and strawberry cheesecake ice cream bar— plopping yourself down onto one of the tables right outside the store. You're quick to crack open the bottle and drink away, also eating away at the chips since you didn't feel incredibly satisfied with the dinner earlier. It might've just been all the emotions and tension in the air, but anywho, the chips and the soju taste better than ever. Sooner or later, you find yourself tipsier, cheeks lit on fire, hands clammy; barely hitting the halfway point with the soju bottle. You lazily scroll through your phone as you begin to eat away at the ice cream bar, revisiting those party pictures.

You wonder what Wooyoung is doing, but you shouldn't be thinking about that right now.

"Ugh." You whine and pout to yourself, pulling up your texts to see if Jiwoo can come to your rescue. You opted for listing Jiwoo and Wooyoung as Jung 1 and Jung 2 to keep it easy and simple; except, it obviously doesn't work well in this case when you accidentally pull up the text with Jung 2 instead of Jung 1 while you wipe away at the tears that suddenly begin to stream down your cheeks.

you: oof .... that dinner was kinda awful i feel terrible

you: kinda?! not even kinda it WAS awfullll

you: i'm sitting outside of our fav convenience store by my olace

you: eating strawberry cheesecake ice cfream!!

you: jiwooooooo

you: jung 1!!!!

Wooyoung furrows his brows at the constant dinging of his phone, unsure of who the hell could be blowing up his phone right now. He even sits for a minute, wondering if there's anybody he's pissed off in the last few days [besides his sister].

"Hm." He hums when he comes up with nothing, nobody. He picks up the phone and scrolls through the previews, chuckling to himself when he sees your name pop up on the screen. Clearly by accident.

you: jiwoo jung 1 pls help come to my rescue it was not good! idk if yeo n i will be friens still ☹️☹️☹️

wooyoung: sorry to break it to you sweetheart, but this is jung 2. 😙

wooyoung: also i won't hold it against you that i've been slotted as number 2 when i should be number 1 esp after the party. 🫤 but it's cool or whatever......

You squint at the brightness of your phone, slowly eating away at your strawberry cheesecake ice cream bar. You almost drop the damn thing when you realize you've actually been blowing up the wrong phone, horrified it had to be Wooyoung, too.

He must think you're a gem, truly.

He does, though. In a very good, non-sarcastic way.

you: omggg i'm so sorry wooyoung jung 2 ☹️

you: i mean jung 1 technically

wooyoung: lol no worries, don't be sorry. you okay?

you: yes but no?

wooyoung: stay put.

You cock a brow up in confusion, wondering if Wooyoung was telling you to stay put because he was on his way or because he just needed you to get yourself together. You listen anyway, sitting on the little chair outside of the convenience store, silently eating away at your ice cream with your phone lit on your lap. You completely forget about texting Jiwoo amidst all of this, assuming she's busy anyway. The wind is slowly picking up, cooling the tip of your nose and surface of your cheeks— settling the heat from the soju.  You shiver and run a hand down your arm, hoping the wind slows in between its waves. You continue to mindlessly scroll through your phone, even picking up your game of Wordle for the day. Just as you get lost in thought, a car parks in a spot in between your building and the convenience store. You look up as you bite into the last of your ice cream bar, hearing the muffled bass from the music in the car. Wooyoung steps out in a grey hoodie and matching sweats, a black beanie on his head. He approaches you with a small smile with his hands dug deep into his pockets, crouching to your level as he continues to look at you.

"W-Wooyoung." You hiccup as you sit on the bench, setting your trash down next to you. Wooyoung gives you a small smile, thumb wiping away at your tears.

"Wanna tell me why you've been out here eating ice cream alone?" He eyes your snacks of choice. "And.. a half bottle of soju and chips? I thought you had dinner with Yeosang."

"I did, and it was terrible and sad." You sniff. "Well, not the food. I just couldn't enjoy it as much. I even tried to drink that bitter white wine he ordered just to get me through."

"And you're drinking soju now? Really must have been that bad."

"Bad bad." You pout and he laughs.

"I'm sorry." He gives your thigh a gentle squeeze before patting it. "Come on, let's get you home." He stands, holding out his hand. You gladly take it in yours, his thumb swiping over your knuckles in an attempt to try and warm it up. He grabs the soju and the chips in his other, leading the way to your building. He quietly heads up the steps, stepping aside and letting go of your hand to let you open your door. When you step back into the warmth of your studio, you instantly kick off your shoes and slip into your slippers—lighting up your candle to bring more heat into the room.

"I'm gonna set your chips and soju aside." Wooyoung says, tightly tying your chips close so it doesn't get stale before setting your bottle of soju aside in the fridge.

"Thank you." You set your bag down and let out a sigh.

"Glad I was able to get you home safely." He chuckles a bit, jingling his keys in his hand. You don't want Wooyoung to leave, especially after he made the effort to get dressed and come to your rescue.

"Wooyoung?" He cocks a brow up when you turn to face him. "Can you stay?" He takes a moment before he nods, unsure how he could turn you down with you looking up at him that way. 

So innocently. So delicately. Eyes yearning for company you can be comforted with, need to be comforted with.

"Yeah, of course. As long as you're okay with me poking around and making some food." You giggle and nod.

"Go for it." You grab your pajamas. "I'm gonna take a quick shower. Feel free to get comfortable and flip through the channels." You turn on the TV for him before shutting yourself within the bathroom walls to shower and get comfy for the evening. 

As you shower and get ready for bed that evening, you hear Wooyoung humming and singing a Blackstreet song to himself in your kitchen. After brushing your teeth, you finish up the last of your skincare routine before heading back outside.

"Finally." Wooyoung turns over his shoulder and quickly scans you from head to toe. "I was getting lonely."

"I didn't even take that long."

"It was long. You and Jiwoo take the longest showers known to man." He frowns a bit, making you giggle to yourself. You plop on your couch, now in your oversized crewneck and pajama pants. You're no longer tipsy, probably a little too sober for your liking especially knowing Wooyoung is in your studio. You do find his company comforting, though. You feel bad he had to come and rescue you, but you'd rather be here than anywhere else after that dinner with Yeosang. You tuck your legs to your chest, flipping through the tv channels only to land on Kiki's Delivery Service. It's already 20 minutes in, but it doesn't bother you knowing the movie so well. Wooyoung is still going through your stash of food, pulling out a bowl of jajangmyeon. While he waits for the hot water to properly cook the noodles, he dices up some pickled radish and some cucumbers, and quickly boils two eggs to perfection. When the noodles are done, he sets everything into the bowl neatly before grabbing a cold water bottle and plopping onto the couch next to you.

"What'd you do today?" You look at him just as he starts digging into the bowl.

"Work. Then Jiwoo came earlier in the night with some food from my favorite Japanese spot."

"Sushi Kashiwa?"

"Aw, you know?" Wooyoung smirks.

"Because Jiwoo has mentioned it one too many times." You chuckle. "That's cute, though."

"She only did it cause she was waiting for Hongjoong to get out of work. And to kiss my ass about the party."

"And because she loves you." He fake shivers.

"Ew. Please don't say that again." He looks at you and you snort. "Want a bite? I made it for us to share in case you were still hungry." He edges his chopsticks your way, watching as you shake your head in response.

"I'm good. Thank you though, Woo."

"Suit yourself, princess. I whipped up a good one." You laugh, settling into the couch as you continue to watch the movie. Wooyoung catches you slipping your sleeves over your palms in his peripherals and although he's pretty warm and cozy in your studio, you must still feel cold. He hurriedly slurps up the remaining of the noodles before gulping the entirety of his water bottle down. He lets out a noise that makes you laugh, kicking his head back in satisfaction. "Damn, that was good."

"Glad you enjoyed." You poke his arm and he smiles. "Is this movie okay with you?"

"Yeah, of course. Can never go wrong with Studio Ghibli movies. Unless, you're down to watch something scary?"

"Never." 

"Why not? I'm here."

"But, whatever scary movie we'll watch, it'll live in my head for the next few days and you won't be here."

"I could be, you just have to call me and I'll come. Like tonight."

"Wooyoung." You pout. "Today's was an accident."

"So, you didn't want me to come? That's funny, cause I didn't see another text from you after I told you to stay put, baby girl." He smirks and you shake your head shyly.

"I'm sorry." You continue to fiddle with your sleeves.

"Don't be. I'm just teasing, I wanted to come."

"Thank you. I needed it." You finally manage to let out as you look at him and scooch a little closer. He gives you a tiny smile before shifting his attention back to the TV, the both of you engaging in small talk about the characters here and there.

At some point, Wooyoung subtly inches in and closes off any gaps, quietly slipping his arm behind you. You silently chuckle to yourself when you see him playing it off, acting as if he hadn't done anything to get closer to you. But, the whole thing feels.. nice. It feels safe. It feels warm. Wooyoung really isn't expecting anything out of this— he is testing the waters to see how comfortable you'd be with him, but that's truly it. That's the intention. Just to make you feel comfortable and better after tonight's dinner. He definitely wasn't expecting you to lean your head against him, snuggling up to him as closely as possible. 

"You okay? Comfortable?" He asks softly. You look up at him and nod, settling back into your position on him.

"Mhm. You're warm." He laughs a bit when he hears that, keeping you close. As the movie continues with the both of you watching silently, you find yourself shifting in your position; arm fully coming around Wooyoung's torso. He doesn't mind one bit. As a matter of fact, he loves that you've gotten comfortable enough to do so.

He drops his arm down from the edge of the couch, holding you from behind as the movie continues to play. He gently rubs at your side before his hand falls to your hips. You feel Wooyoung's hand gently squeeze at it before sneaking right underneath your sweater. You freeze, but more so because you're surprised by his touch— not because you don't want him to be right where he is.

"Are you feeling better?"

"I don't know. I just feel bad." You say, eyes still on the TV ahead while you slowly began to relax in his hold.

"You were honest with him, right?" Wooyoung asks as a simple way to poke for more information and get you to open up about dinner. "Wanna tell me how the dinner went?" He traces faint, soft circles on your bare side.

"I was, and I guess that's why I feel bad. It started off fine. We went to the restaurant and we were talking as we always do. Random topics, jokes, going on about life updates. It went downhill when we got our food. It was quiet for a little bit and I knew he was thinking about what to say or how to say it." You pause. "He asked if I enjoyed the party. I said yes, then he asked if it was Jiwoo's plan." Wooyoung cocks a brow.

"What'd you say?"

"I got kinda defensive." You sigh, leaving out the whole moment of you asking Yeo if he thought Wooyoung wouldn't genuinely go to a party with you. "But anyway, I said you wanted to go.. and so did I. And I had a fun time with you."

"Atta girl." He laughs a bit. "And then?"

"He apologized and said he just wished I told him instead of surprisingly showing up. Then.. he laid it out. Said he had feelings for me and couldn't watch on the sidelines anymore. He felt like there could've been a chance, which was probably my fault for keeping that door open for too long." You sit up and face him, Wooyoung's arm still lazily holding you from behind. "I told him that even if I told him about the party beforehand, it wouldn't have changed anything because I couldn't. I liked us the way we were and that we were good as bestfriends. He deserved someone who was sure of him and who could reciprocate his feelings wholeheartedly."

"Then, you didn't do anything wrong, Y/N." You shrug before subconsciously grabbing a piece of lint on Wooyoung's hoodie and flicking it off. 

"He asked something else."

"Which was?"

"He asked if this was about you, a-and I said no." You avoid eye contact and lick your lips out of nervousness. 

"I see." Wooyoung smiles a bit before shifting up in his seat to get closer to you. He leans his cheek onto the palm of his hand, his arm that was behind you is now on the back of the couch— elbow resting on the edge. "Why can't you look at me?" He smirks teasingly.

"I am." You look at him for a minute before shifting your eyes elsewhere in the living room. 

"Was it really not about me, hm?" He hums, brushing the hair away from your face and tucking it behind your ear. "You can tell me, love." He tries to pull you closer by the hand, and you let him.

"Can I?" His eyes quickly shift to the way you play around with his fingers.

"Course."

"Maybe it was."

"Just maybe?" He looks at your lips. "You think that's why you feel bad?" Brief pause. "That you might actually have feelings for me and you couldn't tell him that part?"

"Maybe." You repeat, his lips only inches away from yours. "Isn't that kinda silly?"

"No? I still don't think you did anything wrong, Y/N."

"Really, Woo?" There you go asking him so sweetly again. It's at this point when Wooyoung feels like he can no longer contain himself because you're giving him the answer he had been looking for; straight on a silver platter. 

"Mhm. As far as I know, you were honest when it came to him. What's between us is our business and not his." He says, his tone just barely above a whisper. You don't really know what comes over you, maybe you did have a little bit of liquid courage still running through your veins especially cause what happens next catches you slightly off-guard. You're so sure about your feelings for him, but unsure about Wooyoung's and how he even feels. This could all be a game that he plays, something he does with other women even if he says it isn't.

Guess it doesn't matter much right now. Can't, anyways.

Within the next second, you find yourself initiating the first kiss with Wooyoung; a kiss that feels long overdue. You lean forward and press your lips against his own soft, plump lips, quickly pulling back to get ready and apologize—

But, he doesn't let you. 

He chases after you.

He cups your cheeks and brings you back, thumb gently caressing the surface of your cheek. You haven't kissed someone like this in awhile, but with Wooyoung, it feels.. right. 

Everything about Wooyoung feels right and natural.

He tries to take it slow with you, even when you crawl onto his lap and wrap your arms around him. The kiss becomes more heated, lips bruising from the rising intensity, hunger. Wooyoung slowly slips his tongue in, and hearing a small whimper from you in response only has him gripping your hips harder.

He quickly learns he likes kissing you.

"Been waiting to do this." He says against your lips.

"Have you?" You ask, your tone filled with lust as you continue to peck him with small, repeated kisses.

"Just didn't wanna scare you away."

"You wouldn't have."

"Have to be extra careful with you, baby. You aren't just anybody." The pet name rolls off his tongue so easily that it makes your head tilt back as the desire builds. He continues to hold you close as you slowly roll your hips against him, Wooyoung now kissing your jaw before gently sucking and licking on the surface of your neck;

The column, your throat.

You feel him come to the base and suck a little harder, and you're hoping it doesn't leave much of a mark. If it does, it doesn't fucking matter to you right now— nothing does. Because all you want is for Wooyoung to devour you. To give you everything, to ruin you so good.

"Is this okay? I don't wanna do anything you're not comfortable with—"

"Keep going, Wooyoung. Please." You cut him off. It takes a second for Wooyoung to register your pleading, that 'please' being the one thing that flips his switch. It's not only a want, but a heavy craving. He's got some sort of eagerness to show you just what you've been missing.

"Hold onto me." He says, lifting you with ease as he carries you over to your bed and plops you onto the mattress. He slowly crawls over you, his warm, large hands now cascading up your sweatshirt. Your breathing hitches when he reaches just above your rib cage, and Wooyoung stops when he feels your body tense in his grip. "You sure you're okay?" He presses a kiss to your forehead, down to your nose, your lips. He looks you in the eye with slight concern, afraid of scaring you. The last thing he wants you to think is that he's purely using you for other reasons— when it's definitely more than that.

Wooyoung wants to show you, in case he's bad at voicing his feelings. Cause he can be, clearly. But, he could at least show you and take care of you properly.

"I am."

"You trust me, yeah?" You swallow the lump in your throat as you nod, continuing to keep contact with Wooyoung. "I'll take care of you as long as you let me."

"I want you to." This time, Wooyoung dips forward to lock you into another deep, fervent kiss. His hands are finally roaming further up; Wooyoung letting out a low groan when he finds out you're braless. His thumb swipes over your hardened nipple, tongues fighting for dominance while your hands are tangled in the ends of his hair. You toss his beanie off just as he starts to tug your crewneck over your head and you follow suit with his hoodie. He nibbles on your jaw just before sucking harshly on the skin of your neck. His hand travels down and slips into your pajama pants, fingers delicately rubbing at your clothed pussy that sends a million jolts down your spine. You twitch in response, and Wooyoung can't help but chuckle against your neck.

"So reactive." He teases.

"It's been awhile, Woo."

"And? That's fine, baby. Told you I'd take good care of you." He raises himself slightly to watch your reaction in real-time. "Does that feel good?" He asks, close to a whisper. 

"Yes." You bite your bottom lip and shut your eyes, sighing in satisfaction.

"God. Can feel how wet you are already." Wooyoung feels himself getting painfully hard against your thigh, imagining how tight you are. He doesn't wanna waste another moment, and he thinks he'll lose it if he isn't inside of you within the next few seconds. "Let's take this off, hm?" He hums, hands already tugging your panties and pajama pants down. "Do you have a condom?"

"Don't need it. I'm on the pill." 

"You're sure? I'm clean, but I'll do whatever you're okay with. Just say the word." He asks again to be extra sure.

"I am, I'm sure." You nod eagerly. The pill was mainly to help regulate your heavy, irregular periods, but you'd say you do appreciate it a little more now for this particular reason.

"You're so hot, jesus fucking christ." Wooyoung doesn't say anything else before he's keenly kissing you again, hastily getting out of his sweats. 

Sooner or later, the rest of Wooyoung's clothes are joining yours on the floor; Wooyoung not wasting any seconds reattaching his lips to yours after slipping them off. 

Wooyoung pauses when he sees you fixed on his length— eyes hazy and full of desire. It's giving Wooyoung the biggest fucking ego boost, but that's not important. He strokes himself a few times before lining up with your entrance. He slowly eases himself in, the both of you letting out lewd moans as you both adjust to the feeling. You're tightly wrapped around him and Wooyoung has to keep his composure as he buries himself deep to the hilt. Wooyoung keeps his pace slow and steady; forehead pressed against yours as he thrusts into you. It's nothing rushed, everything about it is slow— so tender, so careful. 

So safe.

"Wooyoung." You moan his name and his brain short-circuits every time you say it the way you do. On top of that, your little whimpers are doing a number on him, but he's trying to keep it together for awhile longer. 

"Doing so well for me, love." He gently bites your chin just as he slightly picks up his pace. He hovers a bit, lips coming back up to meet you in a sweet kiss. He holds it for a minute longer, tongue swiping over your lips as he rolls his hips into you. 

It's intimate. 

It's deep. 

It's raw. 

It's nothing he'd do to his booty calls, no. Everything about those moments are forced and rushed, the end goal having to nut as quickly as possible and get them the hell out of his space.

With you, he's loving every second. He wants to relish in the way your walls feel around him, wants to relish in the way your fingers thread through his hair, wants to relish in the way you kiss him so slowly, so passionately. Like every kiss holds the answers to the universe and you're afraid you'll miss a single detail.

He rests his nose, lips, against your cheek just as he releases a shaky breath, still taking his time as he works his way with you. He comes down to your neck and leaves feathery pecks against the surface while his body is pressed flushed against yours. He turns his head and you've fully wrapped your arms around him. The pace is perfect, with Wooyoung working his hips in circular motions just to hit you in all the right places. He praises you as you continue to moan for him, pretty little mewls slipping from your lips while he tells you how captivating, how angelic, you are for him.

How perfect you are for him.

You find your hips have a mind of their own, working to match Wooyoung's movements. You feel the pleasure building quick at your core, and you know it won't take long from there.

"Wooyoung— just like that, please—oh my god." You sob. While he continues to expertly thrust into you and keep you close, the friction against him causes the coil within you to snap harshly, nails digging deep into Wooyoung's shoulders while he thrusts harder, a bit rougher, to meet his high. 

"F-fuck, baby. I'm about to—" He moans a little louder when he feels you clench a few times around him from the aftershock, quickly pulling out and releasing onto your pussy and abdomen. "Shit—fuck." He pants, finally coming back down from euphoria to see how mesmerizing you look splayed out beneath him; white ribbons of cum painted on your skin. He's completely enamored by you. "Mm'sorry babygirl, let's get you cleaned up." You giggle and shake your head.

"Please, it's fine. Stop looking, you're making me shy again."

"Don't be. You look beautiful." He laughs, slipping on his boxers. "Let me clean you up." He runs to your bathroom to grab some wipes, doing a light jog to clean you up well. You grab your panties and your crewneck after he's done— throwing them on and snuggling under your covers. You fully expect Wooyoung to get dressed and leave [which would suck], but he doesn't. You quietly watch as he shuts off your TV and the lights, going to the bathroom for a quick wash up. Afterwards, he immediately slips underneath your covers right next to you, pulling you onto his chest.

"You're staying?"

"Why wouldn't I?" He chuckles. "C'mere." He pulls you closer. "Sleepy?"

"Incredibly." He smiles.

"I put in some work, huh?"

"Wooyoung." You pout, lightly smacking his chest.

"I'm just joking." He subtly bites his lip. "Can I have one more kiss before we sleep?" You lean up and peck him on the lips a few times, with Wooyoung holding the last kiss before pulling away. "Goodnight, pretty girl."

"Goodnight." You mumble, falling asleep within seconds as you cuddle snuggly against him. Because with Wooyoung, it feels.. right.

Everything about Wooyoung feels right and natural.

—TAGLIST: @asjkdk @interweab @woojirang @svintsandghosts @cheolliehugs @persphonesorchid @mxnsxngie @jycas @cowboydk @heyitsmetonid @ldysmfrst @intaksfav @wooyoungsbrat @hyukssunflower @yunhoswrldddd

vivrant thing (jwy) | two.

—SPOTIFY PLAYLIST / SERIES MASTERLIST

—SUMMARY: after getting into a little accident, wooyoung decides to do his sister a favor by pretending to be your date at the company summer party. as soon as the night ends, wooyoung would go back to his usual routine of hanging out with his boys, keeping his distance from committed relationships and being a typical brother to jiwoo. except, the favor comes with more than what wooyoung expects and he finds you occupying his mind more than usual. 

—PAIRING: jung wooyoung x f. reader

—GENRE: (18+ - minors dni) bestfriend’s brother au | fluff, angst, eventual smut

—WORD COUNT: 8.8k

—CHAPTER WARNINGS: cussing/mature language, ponytail wooyoung !!!, alcohol consumption / intoxication, party at the winery!, dancing, sweet affectionate moments, songs mentioned are in the playlist, wooyoung is very sweet and will take care of his date 10/10 recommend 🥰

"Wait, wait, wait." San shakes his head in disbelief. "You're going to your sister's company summer party? With Y/N?"

"Mhm." Wooyoung responds nonchalantly.

"I thought her car was already getting fixed at the shop though, what does that have to do with you?"

"You think my sister is gonna leave it at that?" Wooyoung cocks a brow before putting down the navy button-up shirt back on the rack. "I'm just doing her the favor so she can let me be. I know she'll continue to hang it over my head if I don't."

"Wow, you're strong."

"I only agreed cause it's one night. And cause of the whole thing with my sis. Believe it or not, I don't always want her finding reasons to nag at me."

"Wouldn't that be weird, though?"

"What?"

"Being Y/N's date."

"Sure, but it's whatever."

"What're you even gonna talk about all night?"

"I don't know? Am I supposed to have a list ready and check it off as I go?" He gives San a weird look. "I'll figure it out. Who knows, it might not even be that bad."

"I'm not gonna lie, she did look pretty cute at your parents' bbq."

"She's always been cute. She's just shy as hell."

"Mm, yeah." San starts to eye the sweaters on the rack, pulling out a few and hanging it against his chest to see how they'd look on him. "So, what are you guys wearing?"

"I'm not sure." San's forehead crinkles when he turns to look at Wooyoung.

"Aren't you supposed to be sure? You're going together. You have to match."

"Well, we don't really have to. We're not dating, we're just going to a party together as friends."

"Acquaintances."

"Yeah, okay Merriam-Webster." Wooyoung scoffs and pulls out a black button-up shirt that he probably already has in his closet— but it wouldn't hit the same as buying a new one for a summer party. "Stop trying to make it seem like it's super complicated when it's not."

"I'm not. I'm just having a hard time imagining it."

"Then, don't. She's really not that bad."

"Wish she wasn't so shy." Wooyoung turns to San.

"Or.. what?"

"Maybe I would've tried getting to know her more."

"Fuck outta here, Choi San. You're only saying that shit because I'm taking her out to a party." Wooyoung points towards the front of the shop. "Wait. You see that right there?"

"What?" San leans over to try and get a good look at what Wooyoung is pointing at.

"Look closely." He ushers him to get closer. "If you look straight ahead, you'll see the front door. You can take your exit there."

"Fuck you."

"Shut up then. Don't start saying that stuff about Y/N." Wooyoung rolls his eyes as he continues to flip through the racks, trying to spot more clothes to buy and fill his closet with. He's not really sure why he feels the sudden need to be protective of you, especially with San. Hearing him say things like that rubs Wooyoung the wrong way and he's not sure if it's because he's known you for years, or because of something else that he doesn't really wanna think about right now. In the end, Wooyoung doesn't deal with feelings. They're too complicated, and they tie him down. 

"Oh my god! Those dresses are so cute, you'll definitely find one here!" Wooyoung overhears from nearby.

"Whoever that is, sounds exactly like my sister." Woo does a slight head tilt and pretends to shiver. "Can't escape—"

"Because it is your little sister, dummy." San nods his head towards your direction, the both of them watching as you, Jiwoo and Hongjoong walk into the same store. It's almost like the sibling radar goes off for Jiwoo because it doesn't take long before her eyes meet his.

"Why are you here?" She asks, slowly approaching them.

"Waiting for security to take your ass out." Wooyoung looks at the security guard and pretends to call him over. "Excuse me. The nuisance is right here, sir. Please escort her out." Jiwoo rolls her eyes and walks closer to him, giving Hongjoong the opportunity to greet him and San. "Whattup!"

"Taking these girls shopping for the party." Hongjoong responds.

"Me too!" Wooyoung points at San, causing him to click his teeth in response. "Hey Y/N." He smiles down at you and pulls you into a hug before San does the same. 

"Are you wearing black to the party?" Jiwoo holds out the shirt Wooyoung has in his hand.

"And if I am?"

"It's a summer party."

"Black goes with everything?" Jiwoo gives him a look that he reciprocates. "You know, now that you're here Y/N, maybe we can shop for our outfits together."

"Sure, okay—" You respond softly, about to step closer to him when Jiwoo holds your hand and tugs you back.

"I'm shopping with her."

"I have better taste than you."

"I think not." She looks down at the shirt again before looking back up at her brother. "Anyway, we'll be off to find our dresses." She links her arm with yours as you quietly continue to shift your attention between Jiwoo and her brother. "Byeeeee!" She swings you around and drags you towards the dresses in the back corner of the store. Hongjoong lingers around the boys for a little longer, shopping for new shirts himself. The boys talk about their upcoming plans before the summer party, also throwing in some guesses about how the summer party is going to turn out.

Meanwhile, when you and Jiwoo head to the dresses, your eyes automatically land on a strapless corset midi dress— it has a simple black and gold abstract print on it, the fabric mainly mesh. It'll be a little tighter than you'd like, the side slit a little higher than you'd like, but you thought it'd go with the vibe best. There are a few other dresses that caught your eye, and Jiwoo encouraged you to try them on in order to decide which one worked best. 

You could like the way one looks, but it could be completely different when you put it on.

But, your decision remains the same; the abstract dress fits you well, and you can't lie, you feel the sexiest in it. The corset bodice, along with the bodycon fit, provides enough support and shape to hug you in all the right places. Jiwoo squeals when she sees you in the dress, completely agreeing with your decision [she would've any other way]. She jokes that her brother better keep his hands to himself with how good you look and all you can do is shyly shake your head with a tiny giggle before heading back into the room to slip it off.

"Did you find your dresses?" Hongjoong comes, eyeing the dress Jiwoo has in her hands.

"Mhm! Is my pain in the ass brother still here?" Hongjoong shakes his head.

"Him and San just left."

"Good. The dress Y/N has is to be kept a secret until the party. She's gonna look so good, I might have to tell Wooyoung to keep his hands to himself." You come out of the dressing room with the dress tucked closely to your chest, hanging the rest on the go-back rack.

"Hongjoong, please tell her she doesn't have to do all of that." You look at him and he chuckles. "Remember? You're the one who put your brother up to all of this just so I could go to the party. I'm quite positive it's just a favor and nothing else." You all walk towards the register to pay for your items. 

"Still, okay? You're gonna look amazing. I gotta give him a little warning and make sure he doesn't get super handsy with you." She shivers, making you playfully roll your eyes in response.

"Jiwoo, are you gonna help me with hair and makeup? Cause I literally won't know what to do that'll go well with this dress."

"Of course, bae! We'll make it pop, but keep it simple. Trust me on this." She squeezes your wrist just before handing her card over to the cashier. Once her and Hongjoong finish paying, you follow them down to the food court, ordering some friend chicken to munch on before sharing a huge bowl of bingsu with the two. You catch San and Wooyoung passing through the food court, now accompanied by two other girls. They don't look familiar, at least you don't think. In any case, it doesn't make you feel any better knowing Wooyoung simply agreed to go to the party with you as a favor to his sister.

The harsh reality settles that this meant nothing more, nothing less.

You were just a favor.

The day of the party comes quicker than expected. Work had been so busy that the days had flown by, bringing you to your present:

Which is, Jiwoo helping you pop in some hazel colored contacts before doing your makeup and hair.

"Keep your eye open!"

"Ugh, I hate contacts. Jiwoo, you know I hate the feeling!" 

"I know, but I promise it'll be over quick! Just keep it open and don't blink. The more you resist, the longer it'll bother you!" You groan again, gaining the last bit of courage to keep your eye open for Jiwoo as she aligns the contact and gently places it in. "Close and blink for me?" She watches and claps. "Perfect, now do the same for the other eye."

"Jiwoo." You whine.

"I know you can't do it yourself!"

"I can go without them!"

"But, the colored contacts give you a pop and it's cute!"

"I'm literally crying." You point at the tear strolling down your cheek.

"Beauty is pain, my dear! Just for one night! Now, keep still—" She pauses, the both of you holding your breaths while she pops in the last contact into your left eye. You flinch the moment it settles, dabbing at the tears that stream down your cheeks.

"Never again. Wooyoung is literally not gonna care."

"Who said this is about Wooyoung? It's your first summer party, forget my brother. You're gonna be the hottest thing to walk that winery." You shake your head, letting Jiwoo dab some powder onto your cheeks. "You look good, girly! Look at you!" She shoves the mirror in your face. Jiwoo did some loose curls on your hair, and a very natural look for your makeup. Fake lashes, a shade of blush that pops on your cheeks, clear gloss, natural eyeshadow— just enough razzle dazzle, but nothing too extra, as Jiwoo says.

You don't really recognize yourself, though. But, in a good way. You like the change. You normally don't wear makeup, you don't do your hair. You like to think you're simple, maybe too simple, but you don't mind it one bit. That was you, and you've come to embrace it. The change, though? It was nice to see on you once in awhile.

"Thank you." You smile at her and she squeals before checking her phone.

"Okay, my brother should be here in a bit. We're gonna take off and meet you there?"

"Why are you going so early?! You're not gonna leave at the same time as me and Wooyoung?!"

"Nope. We gotta get parking and get first dibs on the wine." She snorts before flashing her phone, screen signaling a call from Hongjoong. "You'll be fine, okay? Granted, as long as Wooyoung doesn't fucking text and drive again but I'm sure he won't with you in the car." 

"Jiwoo!"

"I'll see you in a bit! I love you, mwah!" She says, grabbing her things and rushing out of your studio; heels click-clacking away on the pavement before she squeals even louder seeing her boyfriend. You shake your head, dabbing a bit more highlighter across your collarbone just like Jiwoo taught you.

Within the next 25 minutes or so, you munch on some apple slices you already had in the fridge, somewhat satisfying both your hunger and sweet tooth. Just as you're re-applying lip gloss, Wooyoung's call comes through on your phone, startling you and causing you to drop the wand onto the floor.

"Oh shoot." You grab the wand and blow it off, submerging it back into the tube. "Hello?"

"Yo— everything okay?" He laughs a bit hearing the rustling in the back. "I'm downstairs."

"Sorry, just dropped my lip gloss." You whine a bit away from the phone. "I'll be down in a second."

"Ah, hate when that happens. See you in a bit!" You hang up the call and spray on another spritz of perfume before grabbing your purse, shutting off your lights and closing up your studio. You slowly climb down the steps, Wooyoung probably questioning why you're taking each step 2 miles per hour and sideways. 

You make it down in one piece. Slowly, carefully.

You shyly slip into the passenger's seat, and you almost pause mid-way when you glance at Wooyoung in the driver's seat. As promised, he's in a simple black-on-black fit— a crisp black button up with the sleeves rolled up ever so slightly, black dress pants and black boots. His hair is tucked back in a ponytail with a few strands framing his face. The car smells like his cologne, and he's chewing away at some gum while waiting. You've seen Wooyoung formally dressed before for special occasions, but there hasn't been one time you found yourself ogling at him the way you are right now.

You've never seen him like this, or maybe you just never paid attention? You didn't really have a reason to until tonight. Well, you didn't really have a reason because he was your bestfriend's brother.

"Hi." He says, setting his phone down in the middle console. Thank god he didn't catch you staring at him the way you were. But now, he's doing the same and you're not sure why he's staring. Do you look weird? Is something on your face?

"Hi." He softly smiles, eyes still exploring your body from head to toe and you feel the heat rising to your cheeks.  "What? Is it cause my eyes are kinda red?" You pout, immediately looking through the passenger mirror. "I swear I'm not like, high or anything. Jiwoo helped me put the contacts in earlier—"

"She, what?" He chuckles before shaking his head. "No, nothing. I just— you look beautiful, Y/N. Was taking it in, that's all." 

"O-oh." You tuck a strand behind your ear before settling back into your seat. "Thank you, Wooyoung."

"Of course. You ready?" He glances at your seatbelt and you give him a nod to drive off. "Alright, lehgo." He says, shifting the gear and turning up his music a bit. The familiar voices of Blaque comes through on the speakers, Wooyoung softly singing along to JC Chasez's part in Bring It All To Me. You knew Wooyoung could sing, but it still blows your mind every time you hear his voice. He has one hand gripping tightly onto the wheel, the other resting on the gear. "Do you know if my sister and Hongjoong left already?"

"Yeah, they did about 30 minutes ago."

"She's deadass gonna be the first person there." 

"She said she wanted dibs on parking and the wine."

"Gonna be the first person there and drunk. Free entertainment." You chuckle. "Your dress." He points at your dress before shifting his attention back to the road. "It's pretty. It looks good on you." You smile.

"I picked it."

"I figured. You've always had better taste than Jiwoo."

"Stop." You chuckle. "She did my hair and makeup."

"Really?"

"Yes, really." He nods in approval, bottom lip poking out. He really does think you look incredibly pretty— he's always thought you were cute, beautiful. But tonight, he can't take his eyes off of you and that'll be bad news for him as the evening continues. First and foremost though, his goal is to keep you comfortable and happy tonight. His goal is to make sure you have fun, and that's what he'll do with your pretty little self.

"Okay, I'll give her that. But, that stays between us." You snort. 

"Sure, Woo." He chuckles.

"Warm enough? Music too loud?"

"No, it's all fine. I'm good. Promise."

"Okay, cause we still have about another 30 minutes to go before we get to the winery."

"I'm fine." You reassure him with the prettiest smile before returning your attention outside the window.

"So, does Yeosang know you're going?"

"No."

"Mm, okay. Definitely not prepared for him to beat my ass tonight. I did wear my good socks though, so.. he can try it if he wants." He shrugs.

"He's not like that." You respond softly with a giggle. "Besides, it's my fault. I withheld it from him intentionally."

"Well, what's the deal? If you don't mind me asking." You sigh. "My sister said it'd be weird for you two to go to the party together so I'm suspecting it's a one-sided thing."

"I just.. don't see him that way."

"Why don't you just tell him?"

"I don't know. I'm not really good at these things. I don't know how to say it and I don't wanna hurt his feelings."

"You'll hurt him more by letting it slide like this, you know?" Wooyoung shrugs. "It's okay if you don't feel the same. No one can ever force you to feel a certain way and he'll understand that. But, it'll make it easier on everyone if you're just honest from the get."

"Mmyeah."

"I promise. It'll be tough to get it out, but he'll appreciate it."

"I know, I know."

"In the meantime, are we avoiding him tonight? Lemme know the plan." You shrug.

"If he comes up to me, I'll just explain. Then.. go from there. Wherever that is." You pout a bit.

"Hm." Wooyoung hums when he sees the worried look on your face. "Don't worry about it too much, okay? We'll have fun tonight."

"I feel bad that you're here."

"Ouch, why? Don't want me here?"

"It's not that. You were basically forced to be here so Jiwoo wouldn't get on you for her car."

"Eh, well. Her car is fixed. She can't always force me into things. Besides, it's free entrance to a winery with unlimited wine. Why would I say no to that?" You chuckle.

"You say that now."

"We'll enjoy it together, yeah?" He looks at you and you meet his eyes, nodding quietly in agreement. You hope you'll be able to enjoy with Wooyoung, but as of right now, you're a bit anxious and scared for what the night will bring.

When Wooyoung pulls up into the main lot of the winery, the parking attendant signals for him to follow the rest of the cars into the extended lot. He jokes under his breath that maybe, he should've followed his sister's lead with this one and left earlier. But, it doesn't last long when he's able to snag a spot right by the back entrance near the winery's lawn area— aka, where the party would mostly take place.

"Alright. If we ever need to dine and dash, just say the word. We'll leave." He says, hopping out of the car while you laugh to yourself. He swings your door open and holds out his hand for you to take, shutting it close after he's gotten you out of the car. He looks at you up and down once again, causing the heat to rise to your cheeks— this time, at a new intensity. "Yeeeesh, I gotta say, you look fine, 'lil mama." He smirks. Cause yes, that dress falls along your curves, your body, so beautifully. That dress pushes up your tits so nicely. 

And that dress hugs the curves of your ass so, so perfectly.

"Wooyoung." You whine a bit before playfully [and very softly] punching his bicep.

"Ah—" He laughs, holding out his arm for you to take. "I'm just being honest as your date." 

"You're making me shy."

"Am I?" He looks down at you with another shit-eating smirk. "What else can I do in the next few hours?" You squeeze his bicep as you enter through the back door, greeting familiar faces. To your surprise [or not], Wooyoung immediately introduces himself as your date and Jiwoo's brother, causing your colleagues and everyone around you to hype you both up as a good-looking couple. You don't even know how to respond besides a 'thank you,' letting Wooyoung take on most of the work with his 'yeah, i know we do's' or 'i know, she's just a little shy about it though's.'

"Shoulda left 30 minutes earlier." Jiwoo says, pulling you into a hug before Hongjoong follows suit. "The baddie herself has finally arrived!"

"Shoulda left on time 30 minutes later." Wooyoung retorts, still properly hugging his sister and greeting Hongjoong. 

"Time to catch up!" Jiwoo raises her glass and taps it. "The wine is pretty good, can't complain."

"Coming from the person who likes Svedka Vodka." 

"Hey! It's cheap and does the job quick!"

"That's why my bar closed a long time ago for you." Wooyoung winces before turning to you. "Wanna go find the right wine for you to sip on?"

"Charcuterie board was just replenished, too!" Jiwoo yells, just as she watches her brother hold your hand and lead you into the winery. "It's so weird to see him doing all that with her."

"Well, he is her date." Hongjoong says with a laugh, sipping on his wine while he holds her by the waist. "He's taking good care of her. Let 'em enjoy it tonight, hm? Just like we will." He hums as she giggles, placing a kiss on her temple before whisking her away to the other finger foods that were just set out. 

As you approach the table with endless different wine bottles set on the surface, you keep yourself close to Wooyoung especially with how packed the room has gotten. Wooyoung sets himself in between a red wine, a white wine and a bottle filled with some sort of pink-ish liquid, his hands grabbing two wine glasses and setting them down on the edge of the table.

"There's so much wine."

"Yup. It's nice that you don't have to pay for a dime. These things get costly."

"Which one is good?"

"Hm, let me check. I've heard of this winery but I've never tasted their wine before." He says as you continue to keep close behind him, looking over his shoulder. He picks up the bottle of red wine and takes it to his nose. "This smells hella bitter." Wooyoung says, smelling the red wine. "You probably won't like this one." He sets it back down and picks up the bottle of white wine. "Chardonnay might not be too bad." He pours a bit in his glass and hands it to you. "Taste it." You take the white wine into your mouth and make a face. "No?"

"Kinda bitter still."

"That's okay." He laughs and points to the pink bottle. "That might be good! Can never go wrong with Rosé. Wanna try it?"

"Can you taste it first?" Wooyoung nods, pouring himself some rosé— enough for a little sip. He nods in approval, shifting his attention back to you.

"It's good! You'll like it. I'll pour you a bit again and you can let me know if you want more or not." You nod. He hands you the glass, watching intently as you take a sip and nod in approval.

"Oh, this is good!"

"Yeah? Glad you like it." He pours some more in your glass, a little more heavy-handed than you like but you'll go along with it for tonight.

"What're you gonna drink?"

"I'm just gonna take some of this Cabernet and babysit it for the night." He reaches over to grab another bottle of red wine a couple of buckets away. He pours himself about half a glass before he's sipping it and humming in approval himself. "Yeah, that's pretty good." He sets his glass out, giving you the opportunity to taste his wine of choice. You take a little sip, shaking your head after giving him his glass back.

"Yeah, no." He laughs.

"It's okay. Red wine is tough to work with. At least we found you some good rosé, though. You gotta take those drinks for the both of us."

"Just one glass will do."

"Mm, a couple sounds better, though." He teases, lacing his hand back with yours as you both walk towards Jiwoo and Hongjoong, sharing a table with your other coworker and.. Yeosang.

"Y/N?" Yeosang looks up at you in confusion, and it almost breaks your heart the way he looks at you. You catch his eyes dart from you to your hand that's currently intertwined with Wooyoung's. "Wooyoung."

"What's up." Is all Wooyoung says as he looks at him over the edge of his glass, taking another sip.

"It's nice to see you—" Yeosang pauses and looks at you; you can't help but give him a pursed smile in return. "Together?"

"Mmyeah—"

"I see you went with the rosé! Nice choice!" Jiwoo cuts in, giving you a look to go along with it. "It's good, isn't it?"

"Yeah, it is. We tried the others, wasn't a fan of them."

"They can get kinda strong." She says, downing the rest of the Chardonnay in her glass. "Welp, it's a good thing we have refills right at the table! Seems like we're gonna need it." She pours herself more Chardonnay before pouring you a bit more rosé.

"Jiwoo! I haven't even finished the first glass yet!"

"It was getting warm, you needed the refill." She smirks. You squint your eyes at her before briefly scanning the table, Yeosang now occupied with your coworker. He doesn't seem to want to make eye contact with you any time soon, and that particular unsettling feeling hits you in the gut. You're scared you've already ruined your friendship for pulling this stunt, for not being honest in the first place. You're scared you might've lost your other bestfriend because you were too busy hiding.

"Good?" Wooyoung leans forward to look at you, his soft eyes trailing over your features. He can already sense the shift in your mood and he doesn't want you to start overthinking and getting in your head, especially tonight.

"I think so." 

"You sure? Got my good socks on." He points down to his boots. You smile at his reminder and it instantly eases him. 

"I'm sure." He nods, slipping his arm behind you to rest on the back of your chair. Luckily, the CEO kicks off the dinner portion of the evening. He starts off his speech that lasts about a good minute, thanking everyone for their hardwork and dedication this point in the year. Once finished, he calls on a table to begin lining up for dinner. You, Wooyoung, Jiwoo, Hongjoong, Yeosang and your other coworker patiently fall in line for the buffet-style catering. Wooyoung makes sure to slip in behind you, creating a barrier between you and Yeosang even if there's no obvious hostility. It does help knowing he's creating some distance and you appreciate him for it. You fill your plate with a good scoop of food before settling back down in your seat.

The table enjoys dinner; thankfully, everyone is in good spirits and is cracking jokes despite the awkward moment that fell between you and Yeosang earlier. Even if he was upset, he'd never show you [or anyone] how he was truly feeling, and that could very well become an issue, too.

When it's time for the dance portion, Jiwoo fills your glass along with hers. Even though you had eaten a good amount of food, the alcohol was quick to seep back into your system and loosen you up. But, even with the liquid courage, you couldn't help but still feel shy around her brother.

He just looked so good tonight, you were afraid of looking like a damn fool in front of him. 

In your favor, all Wooyoung cares about is making sure you have a good time. He can see how much you're trying to hold back, even when Jiwoo drunkly throws her arm around you and starts vibing to the music. At some point, the crowd splits you and Wooyoung from Hongjoong and Jiwoo, leaving you to your date to enjoy you all to himself. The DJ starts spinning familiar songs from the 90s, bringing a huge smile on Wooyoung's face.

"Come here." He says, pulling you closer to him as you dance around with him. "It's just me. Don't worry about anything or anyone else." He gives you a reassuring look, his hands loosely laced with yours. You start to feel more comfortable with his reassurance, singing and dancing along with Wooyoung. You find yourself laughing and playfully teasing Wooyoung when he shows off his dance moves and pulls you along into his shenanigans. Your worries seem to be a distant thought at this point, no longer being concerned about every little thing, every little detail.

You're having tons of fun with Wooyoung. You're no longer trying to control what can't be controlled, letting the night take care of the rest on its own.

In between, Jiwoo ends up finding you in the crowd, shoving more rosé your way to get you at a good drunk. And sure as hell, the trick works. Wooyoung finds himself smiling in pure adoration over you, letting you lazily wrap your arms around his neck while singing along to the songs and keeping you close—

Until there's a shift in the air and you feel the liquid courage finally kicking in the way it should.

Wooyoung takes your hand and turns you around, a hand resting on your hip as you dance against him. You don't even care that you've backed yourself up against him and are dancing on him the way you are, thoroughly enjoying how he grips your hips and pulls you flush against him.

It's a little much for someone like you, but you find that it gets you going. Almost has your brain going on overdrive, fixating on the fact that Wooyoung has you like this— wants you like this.

You continue to dance against him, loving the way he holds you and keeps up with your rhythm perfectly. It goes on for a few more songs, Wooyoung shifting to the side to get a good look and hype you up. He's had his fair share of dancing with women at clubs, but he can say hands down, he has never had as much fun as he did tonight. You didn't dance like you were out to prove yourself or something to anyone, to forcefully catch his attention or be someone you're not for all the wrong reasons— you just danced to have fun with him, trusted him to take care of you and help you loosen up. It was all genuine fun and good vibes; he's at the point of wishing the night would never end just so he could stay right here with you.

There is literally no care in the world; just you and Wooyoung, enjoying each other's company at this summer party you didn't even wanna go to. In the end, you're glad you ended up here with Wooyoung because it truly was one of the best nights you've had in such a long time.

"Woo." You turn, tired from all the dancing you've been doing with your handsome date. 

"Yeah, babygirl?"

"I gotta pee." He snorts.

"You should definitely break the seal if you wanna start sobering up."

"I should, huh?" He laughs and nods. 

"I'll wait out here for you, okay?"

"Mmkay." You part from him and it almost aches you to leave him for a second to relieve yourself. The need to pee becomes urgent, your feet rushing you along to the bathroom for a release. Good thing there isn't a line, and that the bathrooms are practically empty— you can sigh away in peace before washing your hands and freshening up a bit. You're excited to get back to Wooyoung, and it shows with the way you giddily pace out of the bathroom and down the hall—

Only to be stopped in the process by none other than your other bestfriend, Kang Yeosang.

You turn and find him there, a small smile plastered on his lips. Your heart immediately drops seeing him, and the guilt comes rushing back. You can't help but frown a bit, pursing your lips together before responding properly.

"Yeo, hi." You look at him with doe-eyes and he isn't sure if he should be more upset over the situation or sad. Maybe sad, because it's clear where you stand with him. And it sucks, but what is he to do? If you're happier elsewhere, who is he to prevent you from having that happiness?

"Hey you." He says softly. "I've barely seen you all night."

"Yeah, just been on the dance floor. My feet kinda hurt now that I think about it." He chuckles a bit.

"Sounds like you're having a good time."

"Um, yeah. Yeah." You repeat. "It's been good. Hope you're having a good night?"

"Can't complain, I guess?" There's a pause before you break the silence.

"Yeo, I'm sorry. It all happened last minute, I really wasn't trying to go but Jiwoo asked her brother and—"

"It's okay, seriously. It's fine. You don't have to explain." He says waving it off, probably trying to make it seem like it's not a big deal when yeah, maybe it isn't. But, you know he's still hurt. You know he still feels a hint of betrayal by the way this all went down— for saying no, for turning down the party, for not telling him you were all of a sudden gonna be here with Jiwoo's brother. For brushing his feelings under the rug.

"Is it?" You ask, still pretty drunk. If this were any other circumstance, you'd probably run away and hide. 

"Uh, yeah, it will be." Yeosang shrugs, unsure of what to say because he is sad about it, now that he truly thinks about it and lets the situation settle in his head.

"I'm sorry." Is all you say as a small frown builds on your lips. Just as you're about to turn to get back to Wooyoung, Yeosang catches your wrist and gently tugs you back. You look up at him, eyes full of curiosity as to why he's holding you back. You're scared for what's to come next, but you give him the opportunity to tell you whatever it is anyway.

"Maybe we can talk about this over dinner? Just me and you?" And as much as you should stand your ground and say no, you can't help but feel like you owe it to him. Maybe this would be it— the doorway to being honest, to telling him the truth. Maybe you two could have a good, friendly dinner and get past this without ruining what's already there; as friends. 

As for Wooyoung, he sees the whole thing with Yeosang. He can't help but watch, either. His eyes were scanning the crowd tough, a little too eager to have you back in his arms on the dance floor. When he finally caught your figure, your dress, standing in the main hall talking to Yeosang, he felt his heart drop. He's not sure what's going on, can't really make sense of what's being exchanged between the two of you. Yeosang still hasn't let go of your wrist, but Wooyoung catches you nodding before he does. Whatever it was, he's hoping you aren't hurt or anything along those lines.

"Hi." You smile toothlessly at him and he has the sudden urge to cup your cheeks, to pull you into his arms and hold onto you. At least you're smiling at him, that's all he could ask for.

"Hey." He smiles back. "I almost thought the toilet swallowed you." You laugh and shake your head.

"What if it did?"

"Then I'd have to go in there and save you, right? Who would I be if I didn't?" He holds out his hand as the next song plays, a little bit of that Jon B. with his They Don't Know. "Mm, I really like this song. Can we head back to the dance floor? I mean, if you don't wanna it's fine but please don't make me slow dance by myself." You giggle, taking his hand and letting him lead you back to the dance floor. He gently wraps his arms around you while you wrap your arms around his neck, his hands firmly keeping you pressed close to him. 

"Wooyoung."

"Mhm?" He maintains eye contact with you as you sway to the song, following along to the beat. 

"Thank you. For tonight. I've had a lot of fun."

"I'm glad. That's all I wanted." He smirks. "Assuming I'll get a free ride to next year's party, too?" You laugh.

"We'll see."

"No seriously though, I'm glad you had fun."

"I did. I really did." You tilt your head ever so slightly and the lighting from the string lights, the moon, hits you perfectly in this angle that Wooyoung feels his heart skip. The highlighter on your collarbone provides an extra layer of glow to everything about you and he honestly doesn't know how to act right now. You feel his hand gently rub at your lower back, his eyes moving from your nose, down to your lips. You catch his Adam's apple bob in an attempt to swallow this sudden nervousness down.

And you could be wrong, you don't really know what's going on in his head and vice versa. But, the moment his face starts edging towards yours, you can't help but follow his motions. In a sudden turn of events, you find yourself wanting, even needing to kiss him; you really hope to—

"If I didn't know any better, it actually looks like you two like each other a lot annnnd iono about all that." Jiwoo says, carrying the rosé bottle in her hand while Hongjoong tries to tug her away. Wooyoung rolls his eyes and tries to move you two away in tiny steps, fighting the annoyance within him when his sister [of course] butted in at a very pivotal moment. Cause yeah, he would've kissed you, and he would've genuinely enjoyed it. He wanted this, too. "Babe, I got the bottle. Open up—"

"Baby." Hongjoong says. "Stop, put it down. Let's go! Leave them alone!"

"Jiwoo, the hell. Are you trying to poison her?! She's good." Wooyoung says lowly with his brows furrowed, subtly brushing his sister off.

"Ew, fun police!" She looks at both Wooyoung and Hongjoong.

"Can you like, get yourself together? What's fun about drowning my date in rosé?"

"All of a sudden he cares." She snorts.

"Baby—sorry, sorry." Hongjoong has a sympathetic expression on his face while looking at you two. "I got this." Hongjoong whisks her away and grabs the bottle, successfully placing it down on another table before bringing her to get water.

"Jiwoo." You laugh, resting your head against Wooyoung's cheek, his grip on you only tightening as you softly sway back and forth to the music.

"Literally couldn't have been the worst time." 

"It's okay. Hongjoong's got her now."

"Sorry." He says, placing a gentle, feathery kiss to your cheek. "Just know that was not how I wanted that to play out." He rubs at your sides as you giggle, continuing to slow dance with Wooyoung under the starlit sky.

When the event officially concludes, the CEO and leadership team come back to the stage to thank everyone for the successful event, wishing everyone safe travels back home. Jiwoo runs to you and hugs you, asking if you had fun tonight. You tell her that you did and that you owe it to her and her brother for all of it. She laughs, happy everything turned out well and that her brother took good care of you.

"Take care of her." Jiwoo glares at Wooyoung while Hongjoong chuckles to the side and shakes his head.

"Okay, go."

"I mean it."

"I do, too!"

"Babe, text me when this big head brings you home. I might not answer though cause I'll be at Joong's but still—" You nod, completely ignoring what she's insinuating.

"Ew, no one fucking asked Jiwoo. Just go." Wooyoung mumbles under his breath, giving her a look. Your eyes widen when you feel Wooyoung slip his hand into yours and grip it tightly, leading you through the crowd of people building around the back of the winery saying their goodbye's. You both head into the car with ease, giving Wooyoung the opportunity to catch a minute before driving off.

"Hm, how do you feel right now?" Wooyoung spreads in his seat, scrolling through his phone.

"I'm fine."

"Not too tired?"

"Not really."

"Still kinda tipsy?"

"Still kinda tipsy." You reaffirm and he chuckles.

"Wanna get some food and hang out somewhere? No pressure. Can take you home if that's what you prefer."

"Um, yeah sure! Let's go."

"Yeah?" He smiles and buckles up, shifting the gear to drive. "Sick. I know just the place to get you some good snacks."

Said place ends up being a convenience store nearby that has the best egg sandwiches, spicy tuna onigiri, and Wooyoung's favorite grab n' go corndogs.

You enjoy the experience nonetheless. Wooyoung parks his car right at the front of the store, helping you hop out of the car before slipping his hand in yours. It almost feels way too natural for two people who were merely attending a party together as acquaintances, [per Choi San] but Wooyoung likes the way your hand feels in his. The way it fits perfectly, and how you seem to put all your trust in him this way. He shuffles towards the back and tosses a few things into the basket you're holding with your other arm, giggling when he debates between a regular corndog or a flaming hot cheeto corndog.

"I don't want my ass to be on fire though, so." He says out loud in the very empty convenience store.

"Wooyoung!" You whisper, more embarrassed on his behalf than himself. 

"I'm just saying Y/N, sometimes that shit is outta my control. I don't want it to be one of those nights." You laugh as he looks into the basket. "Is that all you want? A corndog?"

"Mhm. I'm still pretty full."

"Okay then." He takes the items to the register and quickly pays for it, giving you zero chance to slide in some cash. He smirks when he grabs the bag and heads back to the car, letting you know that he'd never let you pay anyway.

The drive to Wooyoung's endpoint is about 20 minutes away from the store, and up a dark hill. If it had been any other situation, it would've looked incredibly scary and suspicious. But since it's Wooyoung, you trust him wholeheartedly to bring you somewhere you'd enjoy.

"It gets better, okay. I know what you're thinking."

"What am I thinking?" You squeak.

"You're probably wondering why my punkass is taking you up a dark hill. I promise the view up there is worth it. You trust me, yeah?"

"I do. Don't disappoint me, Jung Wooyoung."

"Nah, never that." He takes you further up the curvy road, finally pulling into a small lot off to the side. There aren't any other cars parked besides Wooyoung's, so it makes it easy for him to back into the spot. He leaves enough space to pop open the trunk freely, allowing you two to sit and enjoy the sideview of the city. "Careful." He says, bringing you to the trunk and making sure you're seated comfortably before grabbing the snacks. He plops into the space next to you and hands you your corndog, the both of you indulging in your snacks in pure silence.

"There's a path down there. You get a better view of the city." He covers his mouth while chewing on his corndog.

"Hm." You hum, looking up at the sky. "The stars are so bright tonight."

"I know, I don't remember the last time I've seen so many stars." Wooyoung points to the right. "Look! There's the big dipper." You chomp on your corndog as you look up to where he's pointing at.

"No, it's not?"

"Y/N. Please. That's the big dipper."

"I'm looking! I don't see it." He scoots closer and points again. At this point, Wooyoung is only inches away from your face. If you were to turn at the wrong time, you'd land a kiss on his lips unintentionally. 

"There!" He says. Lo and behold, Wooyoung's right. You finally see the shape of the big dipper up ahead, even if you're slightly distracted with Wooyoung's face being in such close proximity again. 

"Okay, you're right. I see it, I'll give that to you." You respond with a tiny smile.

"Haven't seen one in a long time." He smiles proudly before digging into his other snacks and powering through them. Wooyoung doesn't even move away from you after showing you the big dipper, but you aren't complaining. You've come to learn that you enjoy having him near, close. "You're done eating?" You nod, tossing your trash into the bag.

"Mhm." You hum contently. "Wooyoung." He looks at you with a brow cocked up, shoving the last bit of the onigiri in his mouth. He shouldn't like the way you say his name so softly, so delicately, but he does. Especially after tonight, he really, really does.

"Yeah?"

"I wanna walk down the path and look at the view." You stand and start walking towards the path, where it'll take you to a beautiful view of the city.

"Wait, hold up!" He says, grabbing his jacket and locking up his car. "Why does she walk so fast? Miss Quicksilver." He mumbles to himself. When he catches up to you, you feel him drape his jacket over your shoulders before coming to your side. "It's getting kinda chilly out." You look up at him with a small smile on your face, hugging the jacket closely around your frame.

"Thank you."

"Course." He holds out his hand. "It's dark, let me lead the way? You've got your pretty heels on and everything. You sure you wanna do this?"

"Yeah, please?" Wooyoung almost buckles at the knees when he hears you plead the way you do, instantly locking hands while he walks in front to lead the way. You stay close to him, especially when the path has lower visibility than you expected. He tightens the grip on your hand, carefully navigating around the bushes along the way. When he finally reaches the end and brings you to the view, you take a few steps forward toward the edge of the overlook. There's a small board off to the side that outlines the history of the city ahead and when the overlook was created. You let go of Wooyoung's hand completely to rest on the edge, taking in the city lights. The crisp night air. The sound of the stream nearby. You rest your elbows on the stone, chin resting on the palms of your hands. Wooyoung smiles to himself as he admires you from behind, coming right by your side to enjoy the view. "It's so pretty."

"Yeah, it is."

"The crickets are loud. Kinda soothing to listen to, though."

"Louder than Jiwoo, that's for sure." You laugh, continuing to look at the view. 

"How'd you know about this spot, Woo? Do you take girls here on dates?"

"God, no. I just come here to chill when I need to get my mind together. I don't really share this spot with anyone." He rests his chin on your head and you don't budge, appreciating the extra body heat from behind.

"You shared it with me."

"That's cause I genuinely wanted to take you here. I know you'd appreciate it."

"Can I start coming here, too?" You look up at him with a smile.

"Only if you let me tag along." Wooyoung teases. "I am heavily equipped with the exact location details and everything."

"Mmkay, fair enough." You let out a content sigh. "I wonder what everyone's doing in the city. What their stories are like and what's happening in their lives right now. Do you ever think about stuff like that?"

"I do."

"It's crazy to think about, isn't it? Being in one place at the same time with all these people, filled with millions of different stories."

"It is." You look at the view with a small pout and Wooyoung feels his knees getting weaker over that damn pout. "Anyway." You turn to look at Wooyoung, who is very much still staring down at you in adoration. "What? Why do you keep looking at me like that?" 

"What, can I not? You're just really cute, shit, sue me." You roll your eyes playfully before a yawn comes out, and Wooyoung frowns a bit.

"Yikes." You say just as you shake off the yawn.

"Tired?"

"Mm, it's hitting me now."

"The post-drunk crash." He sighs, cupping your cheeks and looking into your eyes. "Come on, let's get you home." 

"What if—" You cover another yawn again. "I don't wanna?" He drops his hands back down before grabbing your hand, slowly trailing back to the car.

"Then babygirl, I dunno. I definitely do not recommend sleeping out here, though." He jokes. He could technically take you back home and do all the things he would normally do if this were any other circumstance, any other person. He could have you right where he wants you and have you stay the night.

But, he won't. 

He won't do that to you because that's not what you are to him. You aren't just a body, and you aren't a temporary thing. On top of that, he probably should sort through his feelings, his emotions because he's not sure what the fuck he's been feeling all night; he just knows it's kinda different and kinda alarming for someone like him. 

Feels serious, too vulnerable.

"Yeah, I agree." You say sleepily, clinging onto Wooyoung's arm as you walk back to the car.

The ride home is quiet, and exhaustion almost completely consumes your body that you barely realize Wooyoung's thumb gently caressing the surface of your hand. You shouldn't get used to the feeling so much, knowing this is might all be for show especially over a summer party. It hurts to think about, but it's not like Wooyoung willingly wanted to be here. Maybe a small part of him did, but at the end of the day, this was purely a favor for his sister. You didn't think he'd catch feelings over one night, no. It wasn't in his nature to. You didn't expect that whatsoever, either. But, you also couldn't help but feel things after the way he treated you tonight. After the way he took care of you so, so well. 

Was it wrong to feel infatuated? Was it wrong to feel happy, giddy, after the time you shared? Being in close proximity all evening, sharing little subtle affectionate moments together?

The voice in your head tells you yes, and that you should know better than to think it'd last past this night. 

You are you, and Wooyoung is Wooyoung. 

"Y/N?" Wooyoung softly taps your thigh. You turn to face him, recognizing the awfully familiar neighborhood behind him. You had been deep in your thoughts, along with the mix of exhaustion, that you didn't know you've already made it home. "Thought you fell asleep. We're here."

"Already?" You give him a tiny, soft smile that he reciprocates before running to your side and helping you out of the car.

"You don't have to walk me."

"Y/N, please. Don't start spitting out nonsense." He says, unbuckling his seatbelt and running over to your door. He tucks a hand into his pocket while waiting for you to step out, shutting it gently behind you. He walks you up the steps to your studio, silently trailing behind even as you fiddle with your keys to open your door. Once you get it open, you turn to him with that angelic smile he's mesmerized by, causing him to smile in return.

"Hope you had a good time tonight."

"I did. I really, really did. Thank you for.. you know? Accompanying me and what not. Everything, really."

"It was fun." He pulls you into a hug, squeezing you gently. When he pulls away, he keeps an arm wrapped around your neck, planting a kiss on your temple. It lights a fire within you, the heat rising to your cheeks when he pulls back and looks down at you. "Get some sleep, okay?"

"You too. Drive safely." You feel the need to reciprocate the kiss somehow, and it doesn't help that Wooyoung lingers around for a second— mainly to make sure you make it inside your studio. With all your thoughts, you still find yourself reasoning with the giddiness you're feeling. You find the courage to tippy-toe and place a chaste kiss on his cheek, rushing into your studio with a soft: "Goodnight!" before shutting the door. Wooyoung silently laughs to himself as he digs his hands into his pocket, nibbling on his bottom lip to prevent himself from smiling too big at the action.

But, his heart is damn near beating out of his chest, another thing that feels pretty unfamiliar but familiar at the same time. The only thing he knows for certain is that it probably can't be good for him—

To feel this way. Forcing himself to walk away from your studio after spending a good evening together. To want to call you even though he's just in his car downstairs. To keep you company until the next morning.

After all, you were starting to feel more than just a favor to him.

Those feelings can't be good for him.

—TAGLIST: @asjkdk @interweab @woojirang @svintsandghosts @cheolliehugs @persphonesorchid @mxnsxngie @jycas @cowboydk @heyitsmetonid @ldysmfrst @intaksfav

away with the wind | iii

Pairing: dragonrider!Seonghwa x ex-dragonrider!Reader AU: dragon rider au | strangers -> lovers Summary: A spinal injury forces you to retire from dragon racing, and with it, the end of your engagement to Song Mingi. Park Seonghwa, a rising star in the world of dragon racing and heir to the prestigious House Park, seeks a new dragon after an unfortunate accident on the skyway. As the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Word Count: 4.2K Warnings: not proofread, wrote most of this while my dog was at the emergency vet--also I'm going to start a taglist for this fic!

Fic Masterlist

The day Cirrus hatched was one you would never forget.

It was your turn to clean out the caverns. Sunmi was going out on another date and promised she'd take the next shift. That was three promises ago, you huff. You had the egg strapped to your back in a makeshift sling, humming a tune while scooping dragon dung into a wheelbarrow. The smell was less than pleasant, but you had grown used to it over time.

As you worked, you couldn’t help but grumble about your sister’s endless string of dates. 

“She better bring me back something nice,” you muttered, tossing another scoop of dung into the wheelbarrow. The egg on your back shifted slightly, and you paused, glancing over your shoulder. 

“What's up buttercup?”

Just as you were about to return to your task, a faint crackling sound reached your ears. You froze, heart pounding, and carefully set down the shovel. You could feel the egg trembling against your back, getting stronger with each second that passed.

“Oh no, not now,” you panicked. “Not now, baby!” 

You unstrapped the sling and scrambled to find a place for it, as the cracks began to spread. In your state of duress, you didn’t notice the small, clawed foot that broke through the shell.

“Come on, not the dung pile,” you muttered, frantically searching for a clean spot. You finally found a patch of straw and gently placed the egg down just as another crack appeared. With one determined push, a curious snout followed. You held your breath, watching in awe as your hatchling blinked open her deep, violet eyes for the first time, meeting your gaze with an intensity that took your breath away.

Cirrus responded with a gentle purr, her tiny wings fluttering as she stretched them for the first time. You could feel the warmth of her body, the steady rhythm of her heartbeat, and knew that this was the beginning of an extraordinary partnership. 

“I’ve been waiting for you,” you whispered, your voice filled with love and wonder. 

Seonghwa’s eyes widened in awe as he laid eyes on Cirrus for the first time. Her body was slender and elegant, covered in scales that shimmer with a crystalline violet hue, giving her an almost ethereal appearance. He noticed her tiny horns adorning her head like a crown, and her long and flexible tail ending in a sharp, lance-like tip–a trait that had been honed through generations of selective breeding, reducing drag and improving precision. 

You chuckled at Seonghwa’s reaction, as you dismounted her. From the rook, she tilted her head slightly, studying the newcomers with curiosity. 

“That’s Cirrus,” Sohee said matter-of-factly, bringing Seonghwa out of his daze.

“I know,” he shot back, rolling his eyes. “I’m not blind.”

“You could be. You're old.” 

“I’m not old!” he stammered, crossing his arms defensively. 

“Why are you arguing with a six-year-old?” you asked, approaching the trio. Sohee skipped over, wrapping her arms around you in a tight embrace, her fledgling chittering happily as it landed on top of your head. You brightened at the sight of Seonghwa’s handler, whose sunny disposition contrasted his employer’s surliness.

“You must be the person who researches all of Seonghwa’s dragons,” you extended a hand. “I’m Y/N L/N. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” 

“I’m Jeong Yunho, handler for House Park.” 

“I hope he’s paying you well. You know my sister is a lawyer and can help you unionize if you want,” you giggled, earning a glare from Seonghwa. You turn to face him.

“I take it you’re ready to meet some dragons.” 

“Well hello to you too,” Seonghwa snorted, feeling less irritated now that he’s been acknowledged. And for your information, he does pay Yunho well. 

“Before that,” he begins, holding up the scroll from the archive. The atmosphere shifted slightly as you glanced at the piece of parchment, curiosity piqued. “What is it?”

“Ajax’s pedigree. “There are some gaps and inconsistencies that I can’t make sense of. I also have something I need to ask of you.”

You nodded, ruffling Sohee’s hair gently. “Go along now, I’ll play with you later.” Sohee pouted but could feel the weight of the heavy atmosphere. She scampered off, leaving the three of you to focus on the matter at hand.

“How can I help?”

“Where did Mingi purchase Ajax?”

Your eyes widened as you swallowed a lump in your throat. You remembered telling Seonghwa that you were with Mingi when he purchased Ajax, but you had left out that significant detail. He noticed your hesitance and exchanged looks with Yunho.

“It’s probably better to talk about this inside,” you glanced around nervously. You sighed, the weight of the memory pressing down on you as you gestured for them to follow you into the manor.

You led them through the brightly lit corridors, the sound of your footsteps echoing off the high ceilings. Portraits of ancestors and dragon memorabilia lined the walls, their presence seeming to follow you as you passed. The manor was a testament to your family’s long history, each artifact and painting telling a story of its own.

Finally, you reached the library, a vast room filled with towering bookshelves that stretched up to the ceiling. You considered it to be your own personal sanctuary, a place where you could lose yourself without the scrutiny of the outside world. 

“I didn’t think it would matter. We were just kids, and I thought it was all behind us, you said as you sat down at the long wooden table. “I was sworn to secrecy but that ended a long time ago.”

You took a deep breath, recalling the events of that fateful trip. “He wanted to be a rider, more than anything. Of course the Choi’s offered to support him–it was only natural because of his House’s vassal status but he didn’t want that. He wanted to forge his own path and prove himself without relying on his family’s influence.”

“Mingi met a recruiter during our time at the academy who said he could secure a dragon for him. The only catch is that he'd have to go to Halazia.”

Halazia was a place of wonder, a city that never slept with its streets alive with neon lights and the constant hum of activity. Extravagant gambling dens lined the streets, each one more luxurious than the last. The scent of fried foods and smoke wafted through the air, mingling with the sounds of laughter and music that spilled out from the bustling entertainment venues.

But beneath its glittering surface, the city is rumored to harbor a shadowy underworld. Locals claimed this network dealt in forbidden knowledge, rare trades, and illicit dragon trafficking. It was a dangerous place, where secrets were currency and trust was a rare commodity.

Seonghwa listened intently, his eyes never leaving yours. “So, you went along with it?”

You nodded. “I couldn’t let him go alone. We snuck out in the early morning and took the first train out. I told my grandmother that I was going to train with him and took Cirrus to lay low near the station. The recruiter had arranged to meet the contact at a market. The exchange was uneventful, just a pickup point at some stall. I’m pretty sure the woman who had Ajax was posing as a vendor.”

“He was so cute, bundled in a thick cloth.” You smiled wistfully, the memory bittersweet. Seonghwa’s expression softened slightly. “And then what?”

“We caught the afternoon train back without any issue. At the time I believed the Gods had given us their favor and were watching over us on this larger-than-life quest, but now that I think about it–it was suicide,” You eyed the piece of parchment in Seonghwa’s hand. 

You eyed the piece of parchment in his hand, a sense of urgency creeping into your voice. “Let me see the registration.”

Seonghwa unrolled the scroll, your eyes scanned the intricate details of Ajax’s lineage, tracing the elaborate family tree that spanned generations. Names and dates intertwined in a complex web of history and heritage. Right away, you noticed a discrepancy. 

“Look,” you pointed to a section of the scroll. “You can see the same registration number being used for two different dragons. Each dragon that’s bred and sold has a unique identifier that’s specific to their breed. Wait here.”

You disappeared behind one of the dozens of bookshelves, filling the air with the scent of mold and leather as you rifled around for a specific scroll. After a few moments, you re-emerged with the parchment in hand.

“Here’s a copy of one of our registries–the first two letters of each identifier include the breed of the dragon, followed by the location where they were bred. All of our dragons start with ‘D’ and ‘R’ and then ‘AA’ for ‘Aurora’. And since we partner with House Choi in Dune, the breed initials remain the same but the location changes to ‘DN’, indicating an outcross.”

“Here’s Ajax,” you pointed to his registration number, “It starts out correctly with ‘LL’ for ‘Lunar Longhorn. But we’re missing the location of where he was bred. If it were Halazia, I’d assume it’d be ‘HZ’. Instead, it goes straight into the numbers.”

Yunho, who had been quietly observing, spoke up. “It’s like someone tried to piece together a believable history but didn’t have all the facts.”

Seonghwa leaned in closer, his brow furrowing as he examined the scroll. “So how does the Fury breeding come into play?”

You shook your head, a sense of frustration building. “I wouldn’t put it past the recruiter for lying to Mingi. I mean, when you have an aspiring dragon rider who’s willing to do whatever he can to become the best, it’s easy to take advantage of his ambition.”

You paused, recalling the fervor in Mingi’s eyes when he spoke about becoming a rider. “Mingi was so determined, so eager to prove himself. The recruiter must have seen that and fed him the story about the Fury breeding to make the offer more enticing.”

Seonghwa’s eyes widened as he continued to scrutinize the scroll. “But why go through all this trouble? Why fabricate such an elaborate lineage?”

You sighed, the weight of the deception settling in. “Because a dragon with Fury blood would be incredibly valuable. The strength of the Longhorn combined with the agility of the Fury–it would make Ajax a prized possession. Imagine the prestige that would come with owning such a dragon. But if the Fury bloodline is a lie, then everything we’ve been told is suspect.”

Seonghwa recalled his conversation with Hongjoong in the archives. They had discussed the possibility of discrepancies in the records, and the idea of a larger conspiracy had seemed far-fetched at the time. Now, it was becoming a stark reality. The thought of uncovering a web of deceit that spanned generations was daunting, but he couldn’t distract himself from his main priority–the Inferno Cup. 

“This can be dealt with later,” Seonghwa said firmly, his eyes narrowing with determination. “I’m not letting this derail my preparations for the Inferno Cup.”

Stars filled your eyes at his declaration. “So you’re going to buy one of our dragons?” you asked, excitement bubbling in your voice. The prospect of a sale was thrilling, and you could almost see the dollar signs. A very giddy Yunho joined you, his enthusiasm palpable as he eagerly anticipated going through the possible prospects you had picked out for Seonghwa.

You left the library first, a pep in your step as you set off in search of your grandmother to plot with her about selecting the best possible prospects for Seonghwa. The halls of the manor were filled with the scent of fresh flowers and polished wood, a reflection of the earthen wilds that surrounded the estate.

As Seonghwa and Yunho lingered behind, taking in the vast collection of portraits and photographs that adorned the walls, a particular piece caught Yunho’s eye. A small smile graced his lips as he tapped Seonghwa’s shoulder, bringing his attention to the photo.

It was a younger version of you, dressed in your riding attire, hanging off the stirrup of Cirrus’ saddle with your arm outstretched, your smile one of pure joy and pride. The sunlight streaming through the window illuminated the photo, making it almost come alive, capturing a moment of unadulterated happiness.

“She was such a talented rider,” a warm and welcoming voice came from behind, carrying a hint of pride and nostalgia she spoke of you.

A very pregnant woman approached the men, a gentle smile on her lips. She looked lost in memory, her eyes lingering on the photo on the wall. Her presence was calming, her steps slow and deliberate as she moved closer.

“It is our pleasure to welcome you into our home, Lord Park. I’m Sunmi, Y/N’s older sister,” she introduced herself with a deep bow, her movements graceful despite her condition.

Yunho and Seonghwa exchanged glances before the young lord stepped forward, returning the bow with equal respect. “Thank you for having us, Lady Sunmi. The pleasure is ours,” he replied, his voice sincere and warm. “This is my handler, Jeong Yunho.” Yunho bowed.

Sunmi’s smile widened, and she placed a hand on her belly, a protective gesture that spoke volumes about her current state. “I hope that the dragons my grandmother and sister present today are up to your standards, your grace,” she said, her tone both hopeful and confident.

Yunho let out a chuckle, acknowledging the rumors of Seonghwa’s fickleness about dragons. “I’ve heard many tales of Lord Park’s discerning taste,” he said, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “But I’m sure your family’s dragons will impress even him.”

Seonghwa’s lips curved into a small smile, his gaze softening as he looked at Sunmi. “I have no doubt they will,” he said, his voice gentle. “Your family’s reputation precedes you, Lady Sunmi.”

“You flatter me, your grace. I should let you know that Dreamwoods have not been used on the skyway in quite some time.” She glanced over at your photo on the wall, her eyes softening. “They come with a bit of a learning curve due to their agile nature and need for greater control. It’s much different than piloting an Azure Skycrawler like your Edge.”

The whole of Aurora must know about Edge by now, Seonghwa thought, much thanks to his mother and her overbearing nature. 

Sunmi’s words hung in the air, a gentle reminder of the challenges ahead. “I would be more than happy to show you how to pilot one, but I’m due with this little one any day now,” she added with a smile, looking down at the life growing inside her.

Yunho, ever the playful one, couldn’t resist a tease. “Could Sohee train Seonghwa?” he asked, a mischievous glint in his eye.

Your sister let out a hearty laugh, the sound filling the room. “Sohee would run you into the ground,” she replied, her eyes sparkling with amusement. “You could ask Y/N to give you pointers. She knows everything there is to know about piloting this specific breed.”

The gears started turning in Seonghwa’s head. As hellbent as he was on exposing Song Mingi for his potential dealings with Halazia’s underworld and Ajax’s falsified pedigree, the thought of standing victorious was a powerful motivator. Especially after learning about Mingi’s ambition to be a top dragon rider. 

“Shall we look at some dragons?” he suggested, folding his hands behind his back, his posture exuding a calm confidence. His eyes, however, betrayed a flicker of excitement and anticipation.

Sunmi nodded, her smile never wavering. “Of course, follow me,” she said, leading the way across the estate to the caverns. 

The trek to the dragon caverns was an adventure in itself, filled with breathtaking scenery and a sense of anticipation. The terrain gradually became more rugged, the path narrowed and twisted, leading through rocky outcrops until the path opened up to reveal a stunning vista surrounded by mountains and greenery. 

“Your grace,” your grandmother bowed deeply upon seeing Seonghwa approach. Her presence was regal and commanding, the years of wisdom and pride etched within the lines of her face. “Welcome to our caverns. We are pleased to be at your service.”

Seonghwa reciprocated the greeting with a respectful bow. “Likewise, Lady Chunja. I’ve heard a great deal about your Dreamwoods and your House,” he said, his voice filled with genuine anticipation and respect. 

“You are too much, your grace!” she laughed, earning a look of disgust from you. 

As they conversed, Seonghwa’s attention was drawn to you, skillfully maneuvering a young dragon. He watched in awe as you guided the dragon with the slightest changes in the rein, your movements fluid and precise. The dragon responded with grace and agility, a perfect blend of power and elegance.

“Y/N has always had a special touch with dragons,” Lady Chunja remarked, her voice filled with pride. “She understands them in a way few others do. It’s a shame her accident’s forced her to retire from racing.”

This was the second time Seonghwa had heard of your accident. The first time had been a brief allusion from your sister, a passing comment that had piqued his curiosity but left many questions unanswered. His mind wandered back to the photograph he had seen earlier, the one of you hanging off the stirrup with a smile of pure joy. 

“I’m sorry, that must have been difficult for her to navigate,” Seonghwa said softly, his voice filled with genuine concern.

Chunja nodded, her expression tinged with a mix of sadness and pride. “Y/N was in a slump for a while, but it didn’t diminish her dedication to dragons,” she replied. “She poured herself into studying their physiology and history, as well as their training. Even when she couldn’t ride herself, it was her way of staying connected to what she loved.”

Just then, your voice broke through their conversation. “Are you two going to keep talking about me behind my back or can I bring down Outlaw? He won’t stop trying to chase his tail and it’s making me dizzy!”

Seonghwa turned to signal for Yunho, who, much to his lord’s dismay, was occupied with the young fledglings. The little dragons were using him as a climbing post, their tiny claws gripping his clothes as they scrambled over him, chirping excitedly. Yunho’s attempts to gently dislodge them were met with playful resistance, and he looked up with a sheepish grin.

Outlaw, a spirited young dragon, was indeed trying to chase his tail, his eyes bright with mischief. You handled him with ease, your movements confident and assured despite his antics. You descended on to the greenery and slid off, handing Seonghwa the reins. 

“You want me to pilot him?” Seonghwa asked, surprised.

“Don’t tell me you’ve never done a test run when scoping out racing prospects? Is this another one of Yunho’s jobs?” you smirked.

“N-No! I’ll do it!” Seonghwa stammered, preventing his pride from taking another hit. He snatched the reins out of your hand and mounted the young dragon, his movements a bit awkward at first but quickly becoming more confident.

Outlaw seemed to sense the change in rider, his playful antics subsiding as he adjusted to Seonghwa’s presence. The young dragon’s muscles tensed, ready for action, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. Seonghwa took a deep breath, feeling the powerful creature beneath him.

“Take him out for a loop to get a feel for what it’s like to pilot a Dreamwood!” you called out from your position on the ground. “Be good, Outlaw”! 

The young dragon chittered excitedly, his wings beating rhythmically as he lifted off the ground. Seonghwa guided him through a series of basic maneuvers, feeling the dragon’s muscles respond to his every command. 

However, Seonghwa quickly recalled Sunmi’s warning about the Dreamwood’s need for greater control. Outlaw’s naturally agile nature took over, and he moved with a speed and precision that caught Seonghwa off guard. The dragon darted through the air, weaving effortlessly between invisible obstacles, his movements almost too quick to follow. Seonghwa tightened his grip on the reins, focusing intently on maintaining control.

“He’s a little too excitable,” Yunho commented, watching in amusement. Your grandmother, standing nearby, hummed thoughtfully. As an experienced handle, Yunho was concerned with Outlaw’s energetic display, focusing too much on playing rather than working.

“Let out Starshine,” she said without taking her eyes off the pair. “Don’t saddle her up.” You nodded and went to fetch the next dragon, your steps quickening with anticipation, trusting your grandmother’s gut. 

“How was your flight?” you asked, returning to meet the rider and dragon.

Seonghwa rolled off Outlaw, as if his soul had left his body at the speed the dragon was going. His legs wobbled as he tried to steady himself, the adrenaline still coursing through his veins. Outlaw wagged his tail and bumped Seonghwa with his snout, encouraging the rider to play more with him. 

“Why are they so fast,” Seonghwa groaned, rubbing his temples as he tried to regain his composure. 

“You said you wanted to beat Mingi,” you shrugged. “Well done, fluffy!” you cooed, ignoring Seonghwa’s complaints while tossing a piece of meat at Outlaw. The dragon caught it effortlessly mid-air, his jaws snapping shut with a satisfying crunch. You shepherd him away from the grounds, patting his side affectionately. 

While catching his breath, Seonghwa couldn’t help but feel a presence approach him. Starshine, now free from her enclosure, floated overhead in a graceful stride, her silver scales and wings spread wide, catching the light and casting a glow across the grounds. Her eyes, large and expressive, locked onto Seonghwa with a gentle, knowing gaze. 

Something in him stirred; a feeling he didn’t have with his other dragons. It was as if Starshine’s calm presence reached out to him, wrapping him in a comforting embrace. The connection he felt went beyond the usual bond between rider and dragon. It was deeper, more profound, as if they were two halves of a whole, perfectly in sync with each other.

Seonghwa reached out a hand, and Starshine responded by lowering her head, allowing him to stroke her snout. In that moment, he knew that she was not just another dragon; she was a true partner, one who would stand by him through any challenge.

“I see you’ve met Starshine,” you grinned, approaching the young dragon. “Hi sweet girl,” you snuggled your face into her side, feeling the cool, smooth texture of her scales against your skin. Starshine let out a soft, contented rumble, her eyes half-closing in pleasure.

“Train me,” Seonghwa said suddenly, his voice firm and determined. He stood tall, his eyes locked onto yours with an intensity that took you by surprise. There was a fire in his gaze, a resolve that was hard to ignore.

“Absolutely not,” you deadpanned, your eyes meeting his with a steely resolve. Clearly not amused by his sudden request, you crossed your arms over your chest, unyielding.

“You said the best way to beat Ajax was with a Dreamwood,” Seonghwa continued, undeterred by your refusal. “Look, exposing his dragon’s lineage probably won’t hurt him as much as his ex-fiancée training his rival.”

“He has lots of rivals,” you retorted, unwavering. “You’re not exactly special in that department.”

Starshine shifted beside you, nudging you gently, pleading on Seonghwa’s behalf. “You’re serious?” you groaned. Starshine let out a soft chirp, as if to say, “Yes, very serious.”

“Are you sure?” you repeated, your voice softer this time. She chirped again, nuzzling against you once more, asking you to reconsider your decision to train her rider. Her sweet demeanor and the trust she placed in you were hard to ignore.

Seonghwa’s eyes were filled with determination. “I’ll do whatever it takes. Include the training fee in Starshine’s price. Name your price.”

You sighed, begrudgingly. “It’s not just about training, your grace. Piloting a Dreamwood requires a deep connection and understanding. It’s not something you can master in a few months.”

“I know. But you have. I know you used to be a rider.”

“Used to. It’s in the past,” you turned away, taking in a deep breath to steady yourself. Memories of your days as a rider flooded back, the thrill of the wind in your hair, the sense of freedom as you soared through the skies. But those days were long gone, replaced by the weight of your mistake.

“Y/N, please,” he implored, his voice softening. Starshine, sensing the tension, placed her head against your feet, her violet eyes pleading alongside Seonghwa. The dragon’s gentle presence reminded you of the bond you shared with Cirrus.

Training Seonghwa was more than just a chance to pass on your knowledge and promote the breed on the skyway; it was also an opportunity to strike back at Mingi. The thought of seeing Mingi’s face when he realized his ex-fiancée had trained his rival brought you grim satisfaction.

You studied Seonghwa for a moment, weighing his words. Finally, you nodded. “Alright. We start the day after tomorrow. I also want an hourly rate of 10,000 shillings.”

<< ii | iv >>

vivrant thing (jwy) | one.

—SPOTIFY PLAYLIST / SERIES MASTERLIST

—SUMMARY: after getting into a little accident, wooyoung decides to do his sister a favor by pretending to be your date at the company summer party. as soon as the night ends, wooyoung would go back to his usual routine of hanging out with his boys, keeping his distance from committed relationships and being a typical brother to jiwoo. except, the favor comes with more than what wooyoung expects and he finds you occupying his mind more than usual. 

—PAIRING: jung wooyoung x f. reader

—GENRE: (18+ - minors dni) bestfriend’s brother au | fluff, angst, eventual smut

—WORD COUNT: 6.7k

—CHAPTER WARNINGS: cussing, mature language/sexually implied content, mentions of a small car accident due to texting & driving (pls do not ever do this), lots of sibling bickering (i promise they love each other ok), alcohol consumption and intoxication, mentions of toxic relationships (not oc), mentions of sickness and death in immediate family

"Are you actually fucking kidding me?!" Jiwoo yells as she heads outside to meet her brother. "Wooyoung, you had one job!"

"And I got the job done, didn't I?" Wooyoung holds the grocery bag up. "Just got into a little accident, that's all." He points to the dent on the front of her car. 

"A little?! It's a huge dent! What did you do?! Mom!" Jiwoo yells as she heads back into the house. "I told you I didn't want Wooyoung driving my car!"

"Your car was already out in the driveway." Wooyoung adds, rolling his eyes as he leaves the grocery bag on the counter.

"Yeah, so ask me to move next time!"

"Stop yelling, your voice is giving me a headache. It's annoying."

"Mom! Dad!"

"Jiwoo, stop yelling." Their mom comes from out of the room, followed by their father. "You don't need to yell—"

"I do, because Wooyoung took my car and dented it!"

"What happened?" Their father asks, his hands on his hips.

"It was an accident—"

"You haven't even said sorry!"

"And I won't if you keep cutting me off and yelling." Wooyoung glares at her. "Yeah, fucking keep it up—"

"Hey!" Their father chimes in, cutting Wooyoung off. "The both of you, be quiet! I'm not going to ask again. What happened to your sister's car?"

"It was an accident." Jiwoo crosses her arms as Wooyoung repeats. "I just didn't brake in time so I gave the car in front of me a 'lil love tap."

"You were texting and driving, weren't you?"

"For the record, I responded to one text."

"Ugh." Jiwoo groans loudly. "I literally just got the car, Wooyoung!"

"Say sorry to your sister."

"Now, is that necessary? Cause I'll—"

"Jung Wooyoung." Their mother sternly calls for him, making Wooyoung let out a deep sigh.

"I'm sorry." He looks at Jiwoo.

"You make sure that car gets fixed, Wooyoung. And take care of the costs. Your sister needs her car."

"What am I supposed to drive in the meantime?! Wooyoung's car?" Jiwoo smirks at him.

"Hell no!" Wooyoung spits. "You'll probably try and crash it into a tree the first chance you get."

"You can drive our SUV until it gets fixed."

"No!" Jiwoo looks at Wooyoung. "Wooyoung can just drive me around."

"I have shit to do that isn't on your time. Take the SUV." Jiwoo groans and rolls her eyes, brushing past her brother to get ready for the party.

"You're unbelievable. Seriously, what kind of brother are you?"

"Enough! Can we finally get ready for the bbq, please? People are going to be over soon. Can't get one moment of peace in this house when you two are home." Their mom checks the time, walking off to the kitchen with a loud sigh. "I hope you got everything from the list, Wooyoung." She yells just as she's about to dig into the bag.

"Wooyoung."

"What?"

"Be a little nicer to your sister."

"She's the one always jumping to conclusions and getting all mad. I didn't purposely try to get her car wrecked. At least I'm fine and not hurt, right?" Wooyoung rolls his eyes.

"I know, and yes, thank god. But, still. All you two do is butt heads, jeez. Can't you both try and get along sometimes?" 

"Whatever." Wooyoung heads up to his room, already annoyed by the fact that he has to be here with his family all up on his case about the accident. He can admit, maybe he should've paid better attention on the road. But, it's the way none of them even asked if he was okay— Jiwoo constantly whining and yelling at him, his parents getting on his ass and backing her up. His little sister was definitely the favorite, being the top student and all. Golden child. Was in band and the church choir, never really rebelled. While Wooyoung skipped a class [or the whole day], talked back to his parents, stayed out late and just.. enjoyed having fun. He had his good days, but he also had his bad days. He wasn't necessarily cold, but he wasn't going to sugarcoat shit either.

He's a stark contrast to his little sister.

So, he shouldn't be surprised that his parents are taking her side. He shouldn't be surprised they'd come to her rescue first. He shouldn't be surprised at all. He can't wait to get the fuck up outta here when the bbq is over. He'll be out as soon as the morning hits, before any of them can wake up and pester him about anything else.

You gather your hair back and secure it with a claw clip, running your cherry-flavored chapstick across your lips before pressing them together to spread it out. You check yourself in the mirror once more, not entirely crazy about your outfit for Jiwoo's family bbq today.

But, it'll do.

You had known Jiwoo since elementary school, meeting her in the 2nd grade when you sat for lunch alone and the boisterous girl joined you. She was the new girl, but she surely didn't act like it and you admired that about her. Since then, she never left your side despite your shy nature— not engaging in much in the conversation, only humming a few words or sounds in response when she ran through list of never-ending questions. 

Even though her and Wooyoung were 2 years apart and very different, you felt like they were alike in many ways [which they'd deny until the very end].

That's how Jiwoo became your bestfriend. Because throughout all of life's changes, through your losses, she was your constant. She stayed, never wavered. Was your biggest support system alongside of your grandpa. Without her, you're not sure where you'd be. You owe alot of the push you've done in life to her.

yeosang: i'm downstairs!

you: cooooool, be down in a sec

*yeosang liked your message*

You check your outfit in the mirror once more, smoothing down the fabric before spraying a bit of perfume on your wrists. You press them together and rub it down your neck, down your clothes— a simple yellow floral tube top, white distressed jeans and your tore up chucks. It seemed fitting for a summer bbq; not one to wear dresses, shorts or mini skirts like that.

"Yo." Yeosang quickly scans your outfit just as you plop into the passenger seat and greet him. "You look nice."

"Thank you." You smile. "And thanks for picking me up." He reciprocates the smile, waiting for you to buckle up before driving off to Jiwoo's parents' house. From your tiny studio, it's about 25 minutes of a drive. Yeosang doesn't have to take the highway or anything, but he does have to navigate through the busy streets of the city before reaching their neighborhood. Jiwoo's parents celebrate their birthdays a day apart from each other, but it fell during the work week this year. So, they decided to throw a bbq with family and close friends on the weekend in order to be with everyone.

"What'd you do today?"

"I just went to get some groceries and bought a little gift for Jiwoo's parents. What about you?"

"Uh yeah, I just got their gift right before I picked you up." Yeosang chuckles. "Otherwise, I slept in a bit too much and by the time I knew it, half of my day was gone." You laugh.

"Yeo." You laugh. "You should really try waking up early. It's nice to get the most out of your day."

"It is, but you know what's also nice? Being under my covers." You laugh and shake your head, eyes fixed on the view through your window. The rest of the ride is comfortably silent with Yeosang's music playing in the background, especially since it isn't much of a drive. He does chime in here and there when he's reminded of random things he has to do or thinks about. Besides that, Yeosang is good at leaving you to your peace. When he pulls up to the street, he's having to park across from the house— Jiwoo's family and their close family friends already filling the spaces nearby.

"Oh! Y/N, Yeosang!" Jiwoo's mom sees you first, pulling you both into a hug before gesturing towards the kitchen. "Jiwoo is in here!" You both greet her happy birthday before following her into the chaotic scene that is the kitchen, Wooyoung quickly brushing past with a huge bowl of marinated beef in his hands and almost bumping into Jiwoo as she holds a huge pitcher filled with juice in her own.

"Wooyoung, move!" Jiwoo nudges him away and he glares at her.

"Stop! You'll make me drop this."

"What about me, butterfingers?"

"What about me, butterfingers?" He mocks her with a look before rolling his eyes and heading out to the backyard to meet his dad by the grill.

"I swear to God." She groans, before finally shifting her attention to you and Yeosang.

"Hi." You smile at her and you expect her mood to be lifted, but she continues to pout.

"Y/N, Yeo. Finally. Get me out of here. Please, let's just slip through the front door, no one will notice."

"Where's Joong? He has to come on our escape plan, too." You playfully go along with it.

"He's not here yet." She sighs.

"What's wrong?" Yeosang asks with a small chuckle. You look at Jiwoo with a slight head tilt, reading into the frustration in her eyes.

"Today is just so messy." She whines a bit, setting the pitcher down onto the main dining table. "Wooyoung's dumbass used my car and got into a little accident earlier."

"Oh, is he okay?"

"Yeah, look at him! He's the fucking same. But, you know what isn't? My car! The bumper is all dented and everything. You didn't see it walking into the house?" She lets out another frustrated groan and shakes her head. "Whatever, anyway, he's gonna make sure it gets fixed. He better."

"Was it his fault?"

"Yes." She sighs. "Texting and driving. Like an idiot."

"It'll be fine, Jiwoo. It's unfortunate, but I'm glad he's okay. I'm sure your brother will make sure it gets fixed in time." You add.

"He's so frustrating sometimes. Can't trust him with anything." You both follow her out to the backyard that is already filled with familiar faces. 

"It's okay, it'll get fixed." You give her a small smile and squeeze her arm. "Let's just enjoy today, okay?" She gives you a small smile and throws her arm around you, bringing you over to one of the free couches near the back corner of the yard. Some of her family members are playing badminton on the other side of the backyard, while another cousin is playing music and has Wooyoung and his friends hovering around, conveniently close to the grill.

"Oh, Y/N. I wish I could be like you, sometimes. So much patience and grace. Things I need to be successfully related to Wooyoung."

"You have it. Just.. needs more practice." Yeosang responds, making you chuckle. You finally find her dad and greet him happy birthday before greeting the rest of her family members. You, Jiwoo and Yeosang hang around the backyard for a bit, talking about work and the upcoming summer party. You don't chime in much, nor do you want to being that it'll be your third year not attending. Luckily, at this point, Jiwoo's boyfriend, Hongjoong, walks into the backyard and starts greeting everyone before he plops himself right next to Jiwoo.

"Yo! Sorry I'm a little late." He looks at you and Yeosang. "Friends! I missed you, guys. It's nice to see your faces." You laugh.

"Hi Joong."

"Where were you? I was texting and calling you!" She pouts. "We had an escape plan ready."

"Escape plan?" Joong cocks a brow up.

"Yes, so I can get away from this mess named Wooyoung and cry to myself in peace." 

"Baby, I'm sorry. I was caught up with my dad, he needed help with a few errands. The car will get fixed, okay? Glad no one was badly hurt." You smile to yourself as he kisses her on the temple. Hongjoong is a really good guy. He's perfect for Jiwoo and has a lot of patience for her. He cares for her a lot, and it's so clear you wouldn't ever second guess his feelings for her. He's selfless and would do anything for his lady without question.

You wonder what it'd be like to experience genuine true love like that. You've been in a relationship before but you couldn't exactly say it was love. Not a genuine, raw form of love, not a deep connection. Just a relationship where you learned about your partner and they learned about you, but that was far as it went. You don't remember feeling like the relationship was special, or like it was meant for you. It was more so another experience, another lesson in your book.

How does it feel to be completely, utterly, disgustingly in love and smitten with someone?

"I'll be back, I'm gonna get a drink." You mutter mid-conversation, getting up from the seat to head back into the kitchen. To your surprise, Wooyoung is there, sorting through some of the drinks set out.

"Oh, hey." Wooyoung gives you a small smile while you silently wait for him to move away from the counter where all the drinks are sitting— soda, juice and hard alcohol bottles spread across the surface. "Want me to make you something to drink?"

"Um." You softly respond. "It's alright, I was just gonna grab some juice." You point at the pitcher.

"You sure? You aren't driving anyway, right?" He points to Yeosang who is now talking to one of their cousins near the wading pool. 

"Mmyeah, I came here with Yeo."

"Alright then." He smirks. "I'll make it pretty light, hm?"

"Okay." You smile sweetly at him. You've always had the sweetest smile and Wooyoung does enjoy seeing it, he won't lie. "Thank you, Wooyoung."

"Course." You twiddle with your fingers as you watch Wooyoung make a pretty concoction in a cocktail shaker, pouring in peach schnapps and cranberry juice with a dash of vodka. He transfers the drink into a fresh cup, handing it over with a smile on his face. "Wanna taste it before you go?" You sip on the drink, eyes lighting up at how good it tasted. You weren't exactly a fan of cocktails [or alcohol in general], though you wouldn't turn down a drink or two on some occasions.

"Mm, it's good!" He chuckles.

"Yeah? Kinda pulled the measurements out of my ass but I didn't put too much vodka."

"What're you doing?" Jiwoo walks into the kitchen.

"Listening to Y/N tell me how good my drink is." She looks at you with a brow cocked up.

"You don't have to lie to him." You giggle.

"It's actually good." You hand her your cup to taste the drink. She takes a good sip and nods in approval, shifting her attention to her brother.

"She wouldn't lie to me." Wooyoung winks at you.

"Can you make me one?"

"Nah. Bar's closed now. See what all that doubting does?" Wooyoung puts the lid back onto the vodka bottle before turning on his heel to walk away.

"You're a dick."

"Love you too." He says as he walks outside and returns to his bestfriend, San.

"You okay?" You ask her as she pours some juice into her cup.

"Yeah, I just came in here wondering why it was taking you so long to get juice." You laugh as you follow her back out into the backyard and to Yeosang and Hongjoong.

"Caught your bartending brother before he closed."

"Bartending brother?" Yeosang and Hongjoong both ask.

"Mm, Wooyoung made Y/N a drink and didn't even make me one." They laugh.

"Of course."

"Anyway, do you guys wanna sit at the wading pool? Dip our feet in and watch my family act a fool?"

"Sure. That sounds fun." Yeosang shrugs.

Throughout the rest of the bbq, you, Jiwoo, Hongjoong and Yeosang engage in a few other activities with her cousins besides hanging around the wading pool with her baby cousins— karaoke, some rounds of badminton, watching Jiwoo go head to head with her brother and older cousins in beer pong. From time to time, you catch Wooyoung looking over at you, giving off tiny smiles to be friendly. It isn't entirely uncommon, Wooyoung was always nice to you despite the distance. You don't talk much, but he doesn't necessarily treat you like a stranger especially after all these years.

It's a nice thing about him, their family— they're there for you.

They're there for you so much that Jiwoo comes up with the most incredible [in her terms] idea while she catches you cheering for Wooyoung during the very last round of beer pong against their cousins. It gets rowdier and rowdier, Wooyoung and his cousins yelling back and forth; their voices echoing into the sky. You try to sink behind Yeosang, jumping at the sudden cheers and random banging.

"You okay?"

"Yeah, it's just a little loud." You scrunch your nose, Yeosang throwing his arm around you to provide some kind of comfort during the round. When evening officially hits, the partying doesn't stop. If anything, it gets a little more rowdy with alcohol running through everyone's system. 

"Oh, fuck!" Wooyoung says, the beer tipping out of his cup when his cousin rams into him and spilling onto your jeans. 

"Jung Wooyoung!" You hear his mom yell while his dad laughs alongside of her, nudging her to let it go.

"Oh shit, Y/N. I'm so sorry." He looks at you before glaring at his cousin. "You dipshit, look at what you did!"

"Wooyoung!" Jiwoo yells, dabbing a napkin to the wet spot on your jeans.

"It's okay, Jiwoo—" You try to chime in, but your response gets drowned within the ruckus.

"It's Sebeom's fault, not mine! Why is everyone calling my name!"

"You both are idiots!" She groans, taking another napkin to your leg.

"The hell is the napkin gonna do, Jiwoo?" Wooyoung sets his cup down before gently grabbing your wrist. "Let's go dab some water on that." You silently follow behind, letting Wooyoung politely drag you into the kitchen. He's clearly drunk, fighting with the paper towel roll before he successfully peels off a few sheets and runs it under the water.

"Wooyoung, it's okay. I can always throw it in the wash."

"Still, it'll get sticky and smell like beer in the meantime." He says, crouching down and dabbing the wet towel to the spilled beer on your jeans. "I'm sorry, Y/N. You know how my family gets."

"It's alright." You watch as he pinches the edge of your jeans and tugs it outwards, widening the surface area as he continues to wipe away. 

"It might look worse at first, but the water will help." He clicks his teeth. "Did it get anywhere else on you?" 

"Just my left arm but it's fine—" He stands, albeit a bit wobbly at first, taking another end of the napkin to dab away at the small wet spots on your arm.

"Okay." He says, tossing the tissue away. "Better." He gives you a toothless smile. "Won't do it again."

"Thank you, Wooyoung. It's fine, it's not a big deal. Really."

"As long as I did a better job than Jiwoo." He says, leading you back out to the backyard.

"You made it worse!" Jiwoo yells.

"It gets worse before it gets better! Plus, the beer smell won't be lingering." Wooyoung scoffs. "At least Y/N is grateful for it." As soon as you've settled next to your friends, everyone begins to sing happy birthday to Wooyoung and Jiwoo's parents before digging in for more food and sharing the ginormous cake Jiwoo ordered from a mutual friend. Wooyoung brushes Jiwoo off to the side, determining that he has the best cake-cutting skills between the both of them.

"Here, Y/N. For you." Wooyoung hands you a hefty slice of cake, eyes still glazed over from the alcohol he had been drinking. You watch as he licks the icing from his thumb, shaking his head in ironic approval. "The cake is so good. Thank god Jiwoo got it right for once—"

"Wooyoung, shut up!" 

"Don't start again!" Their mom yells from the other end of the table, yet the two continue to bicker. You, Hongjoong and Yeosang stay out of it and eat away at the cake, continuing to mingle with their family members for the rest of the night until Yeosang feels his social battery dying.

"You ready? We could stay if you want, though." You shake your head.

"I'm good. Let's go say bye to Jiwoo and her parents." He nods. You find Jiwoo first, talking to one of her aunts off to the side. You squeeze her wrist as a signal that you and Yeo are getting ready to leave, her eyes widening. Bottom lip poking out. Whines ready to leave her lips.

"Nooo, you're leaving me? Please take me with you." You laugh and rub her back as you pull away from the hug.

"You'll see me tomorrow. I'll be expecting you to come over."

"First thing in the morning. Leave some room in your bed." Yeosang shakes his head and turns to Hongjoong to bid him farewell.

"Make sure you bring her girlfriend home safely." Hongjoong says seriously, patting Yeosang on the back. 

"Will do." He nods. You follow Yeosang out towards the front door, clinging onto his sleeve as you navigate the busy house. You almost slip out successfully until Wooyoung pauses in his steps, doing a double-take when he catches you on his way back to the backyard.

"You're leaving?" You nod, chuckling to yourself when you see him drunk-whining just like his sister. "It's early!" He whines a bit. "Were you not gonna say bye to me? I thought we were cool, Y/N."

"Bye Wooyoung." You wrap your arms around his waist as he pulls you into a rough, but tight bear hug. "Bye San." You wave at San, in which he responds with a tiny smile and wave.

"Drive safely!" He calls out before leaving. You finally get out of the house, Yeosang waiting for you by the front door. You're not even gonna lie, you are pretty exhausted already, and you're excited to get washed up to lay in bed and pick up your current read. Jiwoo's family was always fun, so lively and full of energy. They fit so well together, like they were all perfectly molded and crafted as one. They've become like your second family, and you wished you had your own you could be the same with. But, that also goes to say, their parties always leave you exhausted.

When Yeosang gets you home, you thank him for the ride and give him a hug once he's dropped you off at the door. You slowly waddle into the studio, a smile on your face when you see your bed, your nightlight— the smell of incense still lingering in the room. You quickly hop in the shower and get ready for bed, looking at the big, bright 10:27pm in white on your nightstand clock. You slip into bed, getting cozy under your sheets before grabbing your book. Jiwoo is texting you and Yeosang pictures from today, including ones of her cousins getting crazy during beer pong.

Today was fun. It's over, and it was fun.

Today is not over for Jiwoo, though.

A few of their family members linger around while Jiwoo and her mom continue to clean around the house. She orders her lazy ass brother to haul out the bags of trash to the garbage can and to clean up the remaining mess from the beer pong game out in the backyard. Once all of the cleaning as finished, Jiwoo rushes to the bathroom to beat her brother for a shower. She feels like she can finally relax, finally settle down, finally set her plan in motion—

"I need you to do me a favor." Jiwoo leans against the doorframe of Wooyoung's old room as he folds his clothes neatly into his duffle bag, grabbing a new pair of clothes to change into once he's showered.

"Depends." He mutters, not taking his eyes off of his bag.

"No, you at least owe me this." He scoffs.

"Nevermind, I need to shower. Come back to me in 3-5 business days—"

"You didn't even make me a drink earlier!

"Not my fault you doubted my bartending skills." He furrows his brows. "Plus, I already told you I was getting your car fixed."

"Great, then you can do one more favor for me." Wooyoung sighs as he turns to look at her.

"What, Jiwoo?"

"Can you be Y/N's date to our company's summer party?"

"What?" Wooyoung furrows his brows and lets out a pathetic chuckle. "You're kidding, right?"

"What's that supposed to mean? She's my bestfriend."

"Yeah, clearly. Why can't she find someone else to go with her? Like that guy you two are close with, Yeosang?"

"Um, that's weird." She furrows her brows. "That won't do. If she wanted to go with him, she would've done it a long time ago. You know her. She hasn't gone the past two years, I'm not gonna let her pass up on this one."

"So then go ask your man if he has a friend he can spare?"

"She's not gonna wanna go with any of his friends!"

"Too damn bad."

"You cleaned up her jeans like a saint earlier!" 

"Because it was the right thing to do! What does that even have to do with this?!"

"Wooyoung." She whines, almost stomping her foot. Wooyoung pauses to look back up at her.

"Even if I agreed, you do know how awkward this might be, right? Not only for me, but for her, too." Wooyoung shrugs. "I know she's been your bestfriend for years but we aren't exactly close like that. We're two very different people. We can't exactly spend a whole evening together. Alone."

"I'll be there with Hongjoong."

"That's what I said. We'd be alone." Jiwoo groans.

"She'd definitely be more comfortable with you than someone else!"

"Doubt that. She's quiet and shy. Very much the opposite of me?"

"Yeah, big ass mouth."

"That can be useful." He smirks, making Jiwoo wince in disgust.

"You're so disgusting, Wooyoung. Maybe I should take this back."

"You really think she'd play along with this?"

"Yes!" Wooyoung squints his eyes.

"You didn't even tell her about this plan, did you?"

"She'll go along with it. Please. I just want her to go and have fun for once."

"Hm." He hums, deep in thought. "Nah."

"Just one night!" Wooyoung sighs.

"No."

"Wooyoung!" She pouts.

"Jiwoo, seriously. Quit."

"You owe me! I've had your back so many times, and I've never asked you for anything else out of the ordinary." He looks at Jiwoo and he actually feels a bit bad about the car situation. And it's true, even though they don't always get along, Jiwoo has always had his back and covered for him when she didn't entirely need to. She's always had his back even when he didn't really deserve it. He subtly nibbles on the inside of his cheek, letting out a deep sigh before shaking his head.

"Whatever. Tell me the details." She squeals and he quickly turns. "And by the way, this is your idea. Not mine. I'm only doing you a favor so you can stop hounding me about the car. It's one night and that's it. If she gets mad, that's all on you."

"Fine. Consider your debt paid." She gives him a small smile. "Thank you."

"What are you talking about, Jiwoo?"

"I want you to go to the party and have fun." She pouts a bit, brushing your hair away from your face. You furrow your brows at her, pushing your glasses up the bridge of your nose.

"But, parties aren't really my thing." You shrug. "And besides, I don't really have anyone to go with. I hate to say it, but I don't wanna show up alone. Everyone has dates they can bring. You have Hongjoong." You look over Jiwoo's shoulder and catch Yeosang talking to his team members at the far end of the room. He catches you looking over, flashing you a small smile before returning his attention to his coworker.

Yeosang was great, no lie. He was a good guy, everyone could see that from miles away. He was smart, diligent, kind, and the biggest team player. He started at the same time as your cohort of new hires, Jiwoo starting a couple of months beforehand. When you saw him in person, you did find him attractive. He was at a good height and well-built, black flowy hair framing his chiseled face. At first, you thought Yeosang was just being nice to you. But, slowly, he'd accompany you to the break room for coffee breaks. Bring you coffee and pastries from another shop on random mornings. Occasional outings to lunch. Until finally, he'd accompany you to casual dinners where it felt a little too serious to be considered casual— you just didn't wanna dwell on it. Too shy to say anything or bring it up because your brain goes on overdrive and makes you think you're reading into this more than you should.

He was just your friend, being your friend. So you'd like to think.

You weren't really sure what you wanted out of this, but at this moment in time, you felt like Yeosang was good enough as that. If people found out you weren't entirely into him, they'd probably think you're crazy. And you probably are, but as much as you appreciate Yeosang's company and his kindness, you fear you'd be forcing yourself into something with him.

That's not what you think Yeosang deserves.

If anything were to develop, you'd like it to develop naturally. It hasn't yet, so maybe this was a sign that you two were actually better off as friends? You're not good at this whole dating thing, reading into signs and signals.

"I know you don't really wanna go with him either."

"It's not that. I just feel like it'd be awkward and I'd ruin our friendship. It'd feel way too forced for me."

"Y/N, you're gonna have to tell him sooner or later." You shake your head. "Then?"

"Then, I don't know. I just don't know about him. That's why I'm perfectly fine staying home and being away from all of that."

"What if my brother goes with you?" Your eyes widen.

"W-Wooyoung?" She nods. "No, Jiwoo. Is this what this is all about?"

"Look, don't get mad, okay? Just hear me out." You cross your arms as she lets out a breath. "I asked my brother to accompany you to the party and he agreed to go."

"What?!" You say a bit louder than expected. "Is it because he feels bad for me?"

"No! Shh!" Jiwoo furrows her brows at you. "I mean, he also owes me, but—" 

"Jiwoo, I'm not a charity case!" You harshly whisper.

"I know, I know! You aren't. I just really want you to go." Truthfully, if this were any other person or circumstance, you'd probably feel a little hurt [even with good intentions]. You'd certainly feel like a charity case, and you'd feel sorry for yourself; especially for having to be set up in this way.

But, you're surprisingly not all that hurt by it.

Again, you know Jiwoo has good intentions and she would never do anything to intentionally hurt you. She does have a point— you haven't really gone to any of the big summer parties. You didn't mind it, but now that you think about it, you feel like you can't hide forever. The feeling of missing out settles in the pit of your stomach, and it's awful.

You're probably the only person who ducks out on these things. You're the one to blame for choosing not to be involved and for shielding yourself away from people, any inconvenience, etc. Shielding yourself away from fun, happiness. Life doing its thing.

"Mm yeah." You look at her. "I'm not close to your bother like that, though." It's true despite how he can be in person. Although you and Jiwoo were glued to the hip growing up, Wooyoung had his own group of friends and didn't pay much attention to you and his little sister. You both knew the basics about each other, have gone on trips together, tagged along with Wooyoung when he was the only means of transportation for you and Jiwoo. Why would he be worried about you, anyway? You two were busy fangirling over B2K, young Heath Ledger in 10 Things I Hate About You and Sean Patrick Thomas in Save the Last Dance, screaming at the top of your lungs whenever your favorite songs came on and shopping for hours at the same mall almost every weekend.

Not exactly Wooyoung's cup of tea.

Wooyoung was always rough-housing with his friends or going on casual 'dates' with different girls, blasting his 90s music in his room [like Vivrant Thing by Q-Tip, it's his fave] that'd shake Jiwoo's walls and drive her crazy. He had a few relationships that always ended up crazy toxic and you've seen the girls crying over him on their doorstep or throwing shit at his window to grab his attention after days of no communication. Despite that, he's not entirely a bad brother. He did his best to support Jiwoo throughout all her milestones in life, never missing an important event or being there for her when she needed her brother more than anyone else. They bicker and fight. A lot. But, they'd be there for each other in a heartbeat if needed. No question.

"You are, enough! You know he's full of himself and gross." You give her a look.

"Okay, really? That's supposed to make this better?"

"Sorry, kidding. Just my defense mechanism as his sister." She crosses her arms and sighs. "But, Wooyoung isn't exactly a stranger. And knowing my brother, he'd lead the entire time. Just let him accompany you to the party and call it a night! At least you'll be there with me and we can have fun together."

"You're gonna be busy with Hongjoong." You slowly walk back to your desk.

"I'm not. At least not entirely." 

"Jiwoo." You look at her.

"I won't be too busy with him! I promise." Jiwoo looks at the date on your computer. "It's up to you, Wooyoung already agreed. But, today's the last day to RSVP."

"I feel bad, I told Yeosang I wasn't going."

"This isn't entirely how I'd go about things but hey, he'll see you with my brother. Maybe that'll initiate a talk, and you can tell him you don't want to ruin your friendship."

"Mm." You hum and pull up the email with the RSVP button, not really trying to think about the whole thing too deeply. "I don't have anything to wear."

"It's fine, we'll go shopping soon! We have some time before the party." She softly squeals as she watches you type away and send off your RSVP.

"Jiwoo, I don't know how to get ready for these things. I can't even do my hair and makeup properly."

"Babe. I will help you get this sorted out. Don't even worry. We're gonna have fun! It'll be good. I'm just happy you're finally coming." You give her a small smile.

"I hope it'll be good." Your bottom lip slightly pokes out. "Am I supposed to text your brother and thank him?"

"No. Don't worry about him."

"He's accompanying me to the party, of course—"

"Seriously, don't. It'll be fine. I promise."

"Papa?" You gently open the door and walk in, setting your shoes aside.

"Is that my girl?" Your grandfather comes from around the kitchen, holding two small bowls of rice in his hand. "You made it in time for dinner!"

"I can never miss dinner with you." You giggle, stepping out of your shoes and placing your things down before taking your place at the table. "How was your day today, papa?"

"Good." He sits in front of you with a smile.

"Did you exercise like you promised?"

"Yes." He gives you a look, making you chuckle. Your grandfather was 77 years old and still active, still healthy as can be. When you moved out, you made him promise he'd continue his exercise regimen and that he'd continue to keep himself healthy with wholesome foods. Reading. Going out and exploring the town. After all these years, he's the only one who has taken care of you well— having lost your mom and dad at an early age due to illnesses, same thing with your grandma. Despite the adversity, your grandpa made sure to put you first even if he was hurting, if he was tired, if he was stressed. He never took that out on you. He never made you feel like you were a burden, or like there was love lacking under his roof.

It was time for you to do the same.

"Good." 

"How was the bbq?"

"Good! It was fun. Loud. Chaotic. Per usual at the Jung household." He laughs.

"Sounds like you had a good time." You nod. "How about work?"

"It was okay. It was pretty busy at first, but eventually settled." You avoid contact, digging into your rice when you grab a piece of samgyeopsal sitting in front of you. He watches you closely, seeing how you've gotten quieter in the last few minutes, signaling you were hiding something.

"Did else happen today that's making you watch the rice in your bowl?" You give off a tiny laugh and shake your head.

"Mm, well. Jiwoo convinced me to go to the summer party."

"You're going?" He smiles from ear to ear, happy to hear that you're finally going to enjoy yourself at the summer party you always avoided. He never forced you to do things outside of your comfort zone, but he did wish you'd go and enjoy yourself from time to time. Be happy. Have fun. "Good, I'm happy you're going! Is Jiwoo going with Hongjoong?"

"Mhm!"

"Then.." Papa looks at you with a small smirk. "Are you going with Yeosang?" You shake your head.

"N-no."

"No?" He looks at you, surprised. You've definitely talked to your grandfather about Yeosang and how you were feeling about everything. Even then, he was still surprised you weren't going together as friends.

"I'm going with Wooyoung."

"Jiwoo's brother?" You nod.

"Papa, it's kinda stupid. The way everything happened and how I ended up going."

"Nothing is stupid. Try me. How did you end up with Wooyoung as your date?"

"Well, now I'm gonna sound like a charity case."

"You are not." You give your grandpa a look before stuffing your face with more rice and pork.

"Wooyoung got into a little accident while using Jiwoo's car."

"Is he alright?" You nod.

"Yes, he's okay. Jiwoo is having him cover the car.. but also slipped in another favor." You shyly look up as you continue to nibble on your food, and your grandpa laughs.

"Ah, and that favor is the party, I'm assuming."

"Yeah. It's silly."

"It's not. She's coming from a good place and just wants you there. The whole car thing is unfortunate but for her, seems to be the right stroke of luck to get her bestfriend at the summer party." You giggle.

"I guess you could say that." You sigh. "I'm just worried about Yeosang. I told him I wasn't going and I'm not sure I will."

"You'll just show up with Wooyoung?" You shrug.

"I don't know how to do these things, Papa. I don't wanna hurt him, but I really can't see myself being his date or taking this further. I don't know what to say or how to say it yet."

"Eventually, you're gonna have to, you know that, right? For the sake of your friendship. He seems like a great guy, and I'm sure he'll understand whatever the case is, Y/N."

"I know." You shake your head. "I will. But, not now." Papa nods quietly before eating another spoonful.

"It'll turn out fine, okay? Don't worry about it too much."

"Thank you." You softly smile.

"Anyways, back to Wooyoung—" He pauses to eat some more. "It's not the most common way to find a date. But, weirdly, I'm glad it happened this way. I want you to go and have fun." You silently look at him. "Life doesn't slow down, you don't get any younger. Take the opportunities no matter how silly it may sound at first. Make more memories."

"I know. I'm just.. I feel awful that Wooyoung even has to go with me. He's probably going to have the worst time."

"Don't say that. He's going with you and the both of you will have fun. Let yourself have fun. Plus, it's Wooyoung. You know him. I'm sure he'll do what he can to make sure you are comfortable."

"I guess so."

"Enjoy, and have fun. Don't worry about anything, promise me that?"

"I'll try."

"That's all I can ask for." Because all he wanted was to see you happy. Genuinely happy in your own skin. Enjoying yourself. Having fun. 

All he wanted was to see you smile over life again.

—PERMANENT TAGLIST: @asjkdk @interweab @woojirang @svintsandghosts @cheolliehugs @persphonesorchid @mxnsxngie @jycas @cowboydk @heyitsmetonid

away with the wind | ii

Pairing: dragonrider!Seonghwa x ex-dragonrider!Reader AU: dragon rider au | strangers -> lovers Summary: A spinal injury forces you to retire from dragon racing, and with it, the end of your engagement to Song Mingi. Park Seonghwa, a rising star in the world of dragon racing and heir to the prestigious House Park, seeks a new dragon after an unfortunate accident on the skyway. As the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” Word Count: 4.8K

Fic Masterlist

In the opulent halls of House Park, seated on the cliffs of the Auroran coast, where tapestries whispered tales of riders and their conquests, Park Seonghwa was born.

From the moment Seonghwa could walk, his mother, Lady Haerin Park, groomed him with a singular purpose in mind: to become the finest dragon racer in Aurora. The Park family’s honor rested on the wings of these creatures, often chosen from great breeders and their Houses. 

The young lord’s childhood was a blur of rigorous training, iron-fisted instructors, and the acrid scent of smoke and ash. He possessed a natural talent for piloting, and as his skills grew, so did his arrogance. Seonghwa moved through life as if the world existed solely to serve him.

He viewed dragons as tools, not sentient beings. Their loyalty was expected, their obedience demanded as they ripped through the sky, competing with one another to prove centuries of form and function. He mounted them onto the skyway, their roars echoing glory. 

To him, they were extensions of his will.

Seonghwa’s first dragon, Rami, was a gift from House Kim, long-time breeders of the Auroran Wyrm and allies to House Park. While bred for their versatility and sporting ability, the dragon lacked finesse. Her landings were jarring, and at times, her temperament flared unpredictably—a reflection of his friend, the young Lord Kim Hongjoong himself, Seonghwa thought.

His second dragon, Byul, was aloof, distant, and much too independent. Byul’s shimmering pink scales and piercing eyes gave her an air of mystery, but her reluctance to follow commands made her a challenging steed. Though Seonghwa thought of dragons as a means to an end, developing a bond was important as a rider, and Byul could not fulfill that duty. Her haughty nature often left Seonghwa feeling isolated and frustrated.

Then came Runner, Gale, Voltage, and finally, Edge. Runner was swift and nimble, but his skittish nature made him unreliable. Gale was as wild as the storms she conjured with her wings. Voltage, though a strong mover, was more like an overexcited puppy, quickly becoming a source of irritation. Thankfully, Seonghwa’s handler, Jeong Yunho, was more than happy to take on the young dragon as his companion.

And then Edge. With his sleek, dark scales and piercing gaze, Edge obeyed Seonghwa’s every command. Yet, he lacked agility. He lumbered on the skyway, hindering maneuvers. His massive wings, though powerful, seemed to drag against the wind, making sharp turns and quick dives nearly impossible. Seonghwa’s patience waned; he yearned for perfection, especially after the last race.

Seonghwa was in the lead, weaving through the narrow canyons to throw off his opponent as Ajax’s flames scorched the air behind him. Mingi’s laughter echoed off the rock walls, adrenaline surging through his veins as his Longhorn darted ahead, leaving Seonghwa bewildered. Longhorns were an unusual choice for racing and were traditionally bred for war, which only added to his confusion. Edge pulled forward, his wings sparking as they brushed against the jagged stone.

Mingi leaned forward, urging his crimson steed to close in on his rival, pushing Ajax to go in for the kill. Edge faltered, his tail singed by the flames, causing Seonghwa’s heart to skip a beat.

It’s just fire; dragons don’t burn, Seonghwa reminded himself, though his knuckles whitened as he tightened his grip on the reins. 

Ajax surged upwards, twisting back around with a primal roar and breakneck speed, something Seonghwa had never witnessed before in a war dragon. Longhorns, known for their brute strength, were typically used as tanks on the battlefield, their massive bodies serving as formidable defense mechanisms to stave off enemy lines. 

They weren’t known for speed, making Ajax’s agility all the more astonishing. With swift, predatory grace, Ajax’s talons slashed against Edge’s wing, severing its connection from the deltoid with a sickening tear. He let out a pained, guttural cry that echoed off the rock walls, his body slamming against the unforgiving canyon’s jagged edge as Seonghwa desperately tried to regain control.

Despite the dangers of the situation, Seonghwa’s focus never wavered from his dragon. As Edge’s wing was shredded and they began to plummet, his mind could only think of one thing–to stabilize them. With every ounce of strength and skill he possessed, Seonghwa pulled on the reins, trying to steady Edge’s descent. He shouted commands, his voice filled with a mixture of urgency and encouragement, hoping to reach Edge through the pain and confusion.

Though he had gone through his fair share of dragons, Seonghwa respected the partnership forged through countless hours of training and bonding with his dragon. He couldn’t bear the thought of losing Edge, not just because of the race, but because of the deep appreciation he had for him.

As they neared the canyon floor, Seonghwa leaned forward, whispering reassurances to Edge, urging him to fight through the pain. With a final, desperate effort, Seonghwa managed to guide Edge into a controlled glide, avoiding a catastrophic crash.

The moment they touched down, Seonghwa was off the saddle, rushing to Edge’s side. His hands trembled as he inspected the damage.

“Edge, come on, you’re going to be okay.” He stroked Edge’s dark scales, feeling their cool, smooth texture under his fingertips. He could feel the tremors running through the dragon’s body, blood gushing from the disconnecting wing. Edge lowered his head, whimpers vibrating through Seonghwa’s chest, chipping away at what he thought was the impenetrable fortress around his heart.

His heart sank as he watched medics guide Edge back to their base. The dragon’s labored breathing and injured wing was a constant reminder of their defeat. The moment they arrived, Seonghwa’s mother, Lady Haerin, rushed towards them.

“How could this happen?” Haerin’s voice trembled with disbelief.

His shoulders slumped in defeat. “Mother, I—”

“This race should have been a given. You should have easily outmaneuvered Song Mingi. I knew it. War dragons have no place on the skyway…” she droned on about how the Council needs to review their rules and abolish the use of certain breeds. But Seonghwa could only glance at Edge, who lay on the ground, whimpering softly as medics attended to his damaged wing. 

“It’s just one loss,” he said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper. “I couldn’t have known…” He clenched his fists, his frustration and guilt boiling over. The weight of his mother’s expectations and his own disappointment laid heavy on his shoulders.

“Know what?” Haerin was puzzled, her stern expression softening slightly as she noticed the turmoil in her son’s eyes.

Seonghwa recalled Ajax’s movements during the race. The way he had maneuvered through the air with such precision and speed was unlike any Longhorn he had seen. It was clear that he wasn’t pure Longhorn. His streamlined snout and elongated wings hinted at a hybrid lineage, possibly mixed with a breed known for speed and agility. This combination of brute strength and speed was rare and highly unusual.

“That he was a hybrid,” Seonghwa finally admitted, his voice tinged with a mix of awe and frustration. “Ajax isn’t just a Longhorn. He’s something more. That’s why I couldn’t predict his moves.”

Haerin’s eyes widened in realization, her anger dissipating as she processed the implications. “A hybrid… The Council must be informed! This changes the entire dynamic of the races.”

“Hybrids are allowed in racing, but there could be repercussions for other riders if The Council gets wind of this. Let me look into it. I’ll visit The Institute and talk to Wooyoung about obtaining Ajax’s records.” 

Haerin’s expression softened slightly, but her tone remained stern. “See that you do. Your reputation depends on it.” She glances over at the makeshift medical facility where Edge had been taken to for operation. “You’re going to have to replace Edge first. And don’t forget the Inferno Cup.”

For Seonghwa, the Inferno Cup held deep significance. House Park’s estate, with its grand halls and expansive grounds, had been the birthplace of this legendary competition. The inaugural event had been a grand spectacle, drawing dragon riders from all four corners of the realm to compete in a show of skill, bravery, and honor.

This tournament was a source of immense pride and inspiration for the House. Each generation of House Park was expected to uphold the honor and tradition of their ancestors by competing. Seonghwa was acutely aware of the expectations placed upon him, not just by his family, but by the entire racing community.

It wasn’t just about winning; it was about proving that he was the best dragon rider of his time. 

“Yes Mother.”

The Institute of Dragonology is a renowned establishment dedicated to the study and preservation of dragons. Founded centuries ago by scholars and dragon enthusiasts alike, the Institute has become the foremost authority on all things related to these magnificent creatures. 

Determined to exploit his newfound rival’s weakness, Seonghwa made his way to the Department of Conservation and Preservation, headed by the eccentric Director Jung Wooyoung. The department was renowned for its unparalleled expertise in dragon breeding and genetics. The scholars and researchers there were often regarded as the foremost authorities on dragon physiology and capabilities. Seonghwa knew that if anyone could help him find the ultimate dragon—a steed built for speed, agility, and endurance—it would be them.

“Your Grace! Welcome to the Department of Conservation and Preservation! I’m pleased to make your acquaintance!” Department Head Jung bowed deeply, a playful glint in his eye as he mocked his friend.

“I don’t have time for your eccentricities, Wooyoung,” Seonghwa sighed, his icy gaze sweeping the room, observing the colorful tapestries and bookshelves.

“You’re as forward as ever,” Wooyoung teased, propping his legs onto his cluttered desk. “I know why you’re here, but I’m afraid I can’t help you.”

Seonghwa clenched his jaw. “And why not?”

“You’ve run through every single breed in the entirety of the empire. But if you’re so inclined, our department would appreciate a generous donation to continue funding our research and development of new breeds at your behest!” Wooyoung’s tone was light, but his eyes were sharp, assessing his friend’s reaction.

“I see my mother has made some calls,” Seonghwa muttered, rolling his eyes. Lady Haerin, and Wooyoung’s mother, Lady Eunji, shared a friendship that spanned decades, laying the foundation for their sons to develop their own friendship. Though Seonghwa thinks of Wooyoung as a menacing figure in his life at times. 

Despite being in his mid-twenties, his mother couldn’t help but meddle in his affairs. Her influence was pervasive, and while it often worked to his advantage, it also came with its own set of frustrations. 

“While it’s true I need a new dragon, I also need the records of Song Mingi’s dragon. There’s something about him that doesn’t sit right with me.”

Wooyoung shrugged, leaning back in his chair. “You’ve never had an issue with him before, and now you make it seem as if he’s taken out your entire family. What could he possibly have done to,” he gestured towards Seonghwa, “make you so bitter?”

“Edge was injured because of him,” Seonghwa replied, his voice tinged with frustration. The memory of his dragon’s injury was still fresh. Ajax’s surprise attack, free falling to the canyon’s bottom, and the sight of Edge’s damaged wing were a constant reminder of his failure.

The director raised a brow, his expression skeptical. “Dragons get injured all the time,” he leaned forward, pointing an accusatory finger towards his friend. “I also didn’t think you cared about your dragons like that.”

“I can’t fly with a dragon missing half of its wing,” Seonghwa said, ignoring Wooyoung’s statement. His tone was cold, but beneath it lay a deep-seated worry for Edge’s well-being. 

Wooyoung studied Seonghwa for a moment, his playful demeanor giving way to a more serious expression. “Alright, I get it. You’re worried about your dragon and you want to make sure this doesn’t happen again. But what exactly are you looking for in those records?”

“There’s something off about Ajax,” Seonghwa admitted, his eyes narrowing as he recalled the race. “His movements, his speed—it’s unnatural for his breed. Unpredictable even. I need to know if there’s something in his lineage contributing to these traits.”

Wooyoung nodded slowly, understanding the gravity of Seonghwa’s concerns. “The archives have a record of every single dragon’s pedigree in Aurora. But Seonghwa,” he added, his tone softening, “make sure you’re doing this for the right reasons.”

Seonghwa stood in the dimly lit archives of the Institute, the scent of aged parchment and ink filling the air. Shelves lined with scrolls and records stretched endlessly, each containing the meticulously recorded pedigrees of dragons and their history in Aurora.

The Scribes had always been diligent, ensuring that everything from Auroran History to each dragon’s lineage was accurately documented, a testament to the Institute’s commitment to preserving the integrity of dragon breeding.

“Why are you here?” A voice demanded, echoing through the quiet archives.

Seonghwa remained unperturbed and responded to Hongjoong without looking up. “To take down Song Mingi. Why are you here?”

Hongjoong blinked, taken aback by the bluntness of Seonghwa’s response. “I work here?”

“A far cry from the great halls of House Kim,” Seonghwa retorted, a smirk playing on his lips.

“Why you little–” Hongjoong’s face flushed with anger, raising fists at his friend. “Unlike someone who spends his days gallivanting, I take great pride in bringing honor to my House as a scholar of Draconian History!”

Seonghwa straightened, holding the scrolls tightly in his hands. “I need everything you have on Furies."

Hongjoong raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued despite his irritation. “And why’s that?”

“A little bird told me that Mingi’s dragon is the product of a Longhorn and a Fury,” he replied, his tone serious. He recalled his encounter with you in the hallway, your eyes burning with a fierce determination.

The Historian snorted, shaking his head. “Fury, my ass. Everyone knows they’re protected by law and wouldn’t leave Mount Hala unless there was a climate catastrophe. If anything, it’s probably a Noxtail. No House would be caught dead breeding a Fury unless they wanted to go to prison."

Seonghwa rolled his eyes. “You always think you know everything, don’t you?”

“All I’m saying is that the chances of a Longhorn and a Fury producing offspring can only be the result of a black market breeding,” Hongjoong replied, his voice dripping with skepticism. “And if that’s the case, we’re dealing with something much bigger than just a falsified pedigree.”

Seonghwa’s expression hardened. “You're saying Song Mingi purchased his dragon off the black market?”

Hongjoong sighed, rubbing his temples. “Well no–first of all, where did you get all of this information?

"I never reveal my sources."

"It's Y/N, isn't it?"

“Oh. So that’s her name?” Seonghwa mused, a hint of a smile on his lips. “She mentioned something about being with Mingi when he purchased his hatchling. Didn’t say where though.”

“You didn’t bother to ask?” Hongjoong’s frustration was palpable.

“She kept trying to sell a Dreamwood to me,” Seonghwa explained, shrugging. 

“They do have beautiful dragons,” Hongjoong admitted under his breath, a touch of admiration in his voice. “You should probably pay a visit to their House. Ask about Ajax’s origins, and take Yunho with you. He has a good eye for potential racing prospects."

"That’s what you said about Voltage and he ended up becoming Yunho’s dragon. If he comes along he'll only want to play with them," Seonghwa pouts.

Hongjoong leaned back, crossing his arms with a smug grin. “Well, someone has to keep track of all your misgivings.”

Seonghwa chuckled, shaking his head. “Just get me the records, will you? I need to know if there’s any truth to this.”

Hongjoong sighed, but there was a hint of a smile on his lips. “Fine, fine. I’ll see what I can find. But you owe me for this.” He handed Seonghwa a tattered tome, its leather cover worn and edges frayed from years of use. 

“You’ll want to start with their physiology; it’s the best way to cross-reference some of Ajax’s physical characteristics.” He snatched it back as his friend reached out for the book. “It’s delicate, so be careful,” he warned, stroking the cover of the book.

Often referred to as snow dragons, Star Furies are elusive creatures that dwell in the icy peaks of Mount Hala. These dragons are known for their immense size and graceful movements, gliding effortlessly through blizzards and snowstorms.

Their streamlined bodies and elongated wings allow them to soar through the air with remarkable swiftness, even in the harshest of winter storms. They can reach astonishing speeds, making them nearly impossible to catch or outrun. Their sharp reflexes and keen senses enable them to detect and evade threats long before they come close.

His mind raced with possibilities. If Mingi had indeed acquired his dragon through illicit means, it could unravel a web of deceit that stretched far beyond a single falsified pedigree. The implications were staggering, and the stakes had never been higher.

“Did you find anything?” Hongjoong yawned, after what seemed like a lifetime. 

“Maybe,” Seonghwa replied, his eyes scanning the ancient texts spread out before him. “If Ajax is half Fury like Y/N said, he was probably bred somewhere near Mount Hala. 

Hongjoong’s eyes widened, the fatigue momentarily forgotten. “With all of their gambling dens and nightlife, Halazia would be the perfect place for illegal activities to go unnoticed. If Ajax was bred there, it means we’re dealing with a network far more dangerous than we initially thought.”

The Historian rubbed his temples, trying to process the gravity of the situation. “What are you going to do now? You still need to see his pedigree to confirm your hunch. Otherwise you’re going to be chasing a dead lead.”

Seonghwa closed the book with a decisive thud. “I’m going to visit Y/N to confirm the location. I could care less about uncovering a much larger conspiracy as long as I know how to beat Mingi. The Inferno Cup is just around the corner, and I need every advantage I can get.”

Hongjoong sighed, shaking his head. “You and your competitive streak. Since you’re set on going, consider buying a Dreamwood. All of the other Houses are threatening to blacklist you because of your… standards. They’re not too happy with you returning dragons left and right.”

“I just know what I want,” Seonghwa smirked. Hongjoong tossed a scroll at him, the parchment unfurling in mid-air before landing in Seonghwa’s hands. 

“Here’s Ajax’s pedigree. Y/N might be able to corroborate the dates, names, and Houses. Otherwise, I’m sure Lady Chunja or Sunmi will be around to help. They have extensive knowledge of dragon lineages and might spot something we’ve missed.”

Seonghwa unrolled the scroll, his eyes scanning the intricate details of Ajax’s lineage. The names of dragons and their breeders were meticulously recorded, but there were gaps and inconsistencies that raised more questions than answers.

“This is a start,” he muttered, more to himself than to Hongjoong.

Though not a Great House, House L/N has held their own over the last five centuries as a breeding House for Dreamwood Ridegbacks. Nestled against the backdrop of rolling hills, the estate was surrounded by lush, verdant gardens that seemed to stretch endlessly, filled with vibrant flowers that clash against Aurora's wilds. The scent of smoke and jasmine filled the air, creating an intoxicating blend that welcomed visitors as they approached.

The house itself was a masterpiece of architecture, with its white stone walls covered in climbing ivy and blooming vines. The windows were large and arched, allowing sunlight to flood the interior with a warm, golden glow.

At the highest point of the roof, a specially constructed dragon perch stood out. This perch was a large, platform made of reinforced stone, capable of withstanding the weight and power of even the largest dragons. 

As Seonghwa and Yunho approached the iron gates of House L/N’s estate, the sound of rustling leaves caught their attention. A small figure darted out from behind them, her hair a tangled mess, chubby cheeks and clothing smeared with dirt. Perched upon her shoulders was a lavender fledgling dragon, its large inquisitive eyes glowing with curiosity. She let out a small, protective huff as it surveyed the newcomers.

“Who goes there?” a girl no older than the age of six demanded, raising her wooden spear at the intruders. Her fledgling echoed her sentiment with tiny puffs of smoke escaping its nostrils.

Yunho put his hands up in defense. “We come in peace. I’m Jeong Yunho and this is Park Seonghwa of House Park.”

“State your purpose!” she commanded, her eyes narrowing. The fledgling shifted on her shoulders, its wings fluttering slightly as if ready to take flight at any moment.

“We request an audience with Lady Y/N of House L/N,” Yunho said, trying to keep a straight face.

“There is no one here by that name. I am the lady of this House! You will answer to me!” the girl declared, puffing out her chest. The fledgling mimicked her posture, its tiny chest swelling with pride.

“Why are you negotiating with a child?” Seonghwa whispered, leaning closer to Yunho.

“Because she’s armed and looks like she means business,” Yunho whispered back, trying not to laugh.

The fledgling dragon let out a small roar, more adorable than intimidating, but it was clear that it was ready to defend its young mistress. Its lavender scales glinted in the light, and its tail swished back and forth with anticipation.

“Oi, Sohee! Leave the riff raff alone,” you called out from above. Seonghwa snapped his head up, mouth agape in awe as you swept over the estate on Cirrus. Her scales reflected the sunlight in a dazzling display, each movement fluid and graceful. She beat her wings powerfully, creating gusts of wind that blew leaves and sediment as she descended onto the rook of the house, her landing light as a feather.

Cirrus’s eyes, a deep violet, scanned the area with a keen awareness, ensuring everything was in order before you dismounted. Her wings folded neatly against her sides, and she let out a soft, rumbling purr.

“I see you’ve taken me up on my offer,” you grinned, sliding off Cirrus’s back with ease. “Welcome to House L/N.” You smiled, patting her neck affectionately.

<< i | iii >>

OKAY OKAY OKAY GAH DAMN DO I LOVE ME SOME STRONG REVENGE PLOT POINT???

spinal injury whew and it was mingi who lost his spine. (shakes head). what an asshole you must be to romance the person who is taking care of the PERSON YOU ALMOST STITCHED UP THE MARRIED DREAMS WITH? i say bring 100 ajax on him.

seonghwa's character OKAY OKAY pfw!hwa too ingrained in my head i cant see the meanie in him.

PROMISING LORE AND BUILDUP I LIKE ITTT

away with the wind | i

Pairing: dragonrider!Seonghwa x ex-dragonrider!Reader AU: dragon rider au | strangers -> lovers Summary: A spinal injury forces you to retire from dragon racing, and with it, the end of your engagement to Song Mingi. Park Seonghwa, a rising star in the world of dragon racing and heir to the prestigious House Park, seeks a new dragon after an unfortunate accident on the skyway. As the saying goes, “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.” word count: 4.2K

Fic Masterlist

It was a freak accident.

You vividly recall rounding the bend with Cirrus, attempting to cut off Lee Jihoon, who was in close pursuit on the skyway. But your calculations went awry—Cirrus’ wings clipped a rocky outcrop. The dragon spiraled out of control, flailing, and your grip slipped as your foot caught on the stirrup. You barely had time to process what would happen next when your body collided with the cliff edge.

It wasn’t her fault. You were the pilot; you should have known better.

Pain exploded through your body, gasping for air, unable to move. Bone-crushing agony tore through you. Cirrus circled back, eyes wide with panic, but you couldn’t reach out to reassure her.

Other racers thundered past, oblivious to your plight.

Blood filled your mouth, your cheek pressed against the jagged outcrop. Tears welled up—not from the pain, but from the realization that your racing days were over.

Over. The end. Your dreams of flight grounded forever.

You tried to call out for help, but your breath hitched, caught in your throat like a thorn. The racetrack blurred, and you could hear Cirrus’ cries. She was desperate for anyone to find you. 

You wanted to succumb to the darkness. At this point, you welcome Death to guide you to eternal sleep, far away from the fact that your wings had been taken from you.

Two Years Later

The Auroran Institute for Dragonology buzzed with activity. Researchers hurried past your office, their hushed voices blending into a symphony of curiosity and urgency.

“He’s looking for a new dragon. It has to be from an exceptional lineage,” you overheard someone whisper, waiting for your kettle to go off.

You sat in your office, the door wide open to comply with the department head’s “open door policy”—a policy set by the eccentric, cheery, and exhaustingly loud Jung Wooyoung.

You knew a thing or two about exceptional lineages. Your family had bred Dreamwood Ridgebacks since time immemorial, with Cirrus being the very first dragon you bred on your own.

Who was looking for a new dragon?

After the accident, retirement came swiftly, along with the end of your engagement.

The council honored you with an award of merit—mostly out of pity, you thought. But perhaps it was also because you hailed from House L/N, a respected breeding House for producing one of the oldest lines of dragons known to humanity. No one wanted to draw the ire of your grandmother, the matriarch of House L/N.

And of your engagement?

The hospital had become a second home for you after your injury. The long hours of rehabilitation and therapy were grueling, but you were determined to regain as much independence as possible.

The impact on your ability to ride was immediate and devastating and meant you could no longer mount Cirrus with the same ease or control. The pain reduced mobility and made it nearly impossible to maintain the balance and coordination needed for riding. 

And while you felt like your world was spinning out of control, one thing remained constant--Mingi.

He stopped by everyday, offering support and encouragement, bringing you food, flowers, and news of the outside world. Despite his commitment to the racing grounds, he always made time for you.

At least for the first few months.

"The nurse says your recovery hasn't been progressing as quickly as doctors would like."

"What the fuck does the nurse know?"

"We've been talking about your treatment. It's just that your body is taking a lot longer to heal compared to others."

"I broke my fucking spine, Mingi. Of course it's going to take time to heal! It controls my entire nervous system! My body won’t ever be the same.”

"I know. I'm concerned about your progress, that’s all. I want you to get better. I really do," he says quietly, reaching out for your hand. You entwine your fingers in his, giving him a slight squeeze.

It’s a constant reminder of the possibility that he might slip away. The fear gnaws at you, making your heart ache. You can’t help but wonder if his concern for you is genuine or if it’s out of obligation. The uncertainty is unbearable, but you hold on tighter, hoping that your grip can somehow keep him close.

The physical pain was intense, but the emotional toll was even greater. Conversations that once flowed effortlessly now felt stilted.

You had always trusted Mingi implicitly, but lately, something felt off. It started with the small things—his visits were more frequent but rushed. The faint scent of an unfamiliar perfume lingered on his clothes, mixing in with the smoke and musk of the training grounds.

He seemed distracted, often lost in thought. As if he were waiting for something. Someone. The tension between the both of you grew, and your once strong bond began to fray. It was as if he was physically present but emotionally distant, a ghost of the person you once knew.

“How’s physical therapy going?” he asked, his voice lacking its usual warmth.

“I’m taking it one day at a time. At least I’ve graduated to crutches,” you shrug, trying to inject some lightness into the conversation.

“You were supposed to be on crutches a month ago,” he replied, a hint of frustration creeping into his tone.

You roll your eyes. “Who says?”

“Jia,” he answered, almost too quickly.

“I didn’t know you were on a first name basis with the nurse,” you retorted with a pout. 

"We just want to help–” he began, but you cut him off. Your face drops. “We?"

“As your fiancé and caregiver. That’s all,” he said, trying to sound reassuring. He kissed your forehead and got ready to leave for the day, his movements hurried and tense.

You thought you were losing it. You questioned everything—your relationship with Mingi, your judgment, and even your own worth. These thoughts gnawed at you, eroding your self-esteem. The uncertainty was suffocating, and you felt trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and fear.

You decide some fresh air would do you good.

You hobble along, crutches clicking rhythmically against the ground. The sun was setting, casting a warm, golden glow over the hospital's courtyard.  Rounding the corner, you spotted two familiar figures sitting on a bench.

Their heads were close together, laughing softly. You hadn’t expected to see them here, especially not Mingi since he was supposed to be training for an upcoming race. The sight of them sharing such an intimate moment made you feel like an intruder.

You replayed every interaction, every moment of doubt you had brushed aside, and it fueled your rage. Yet, beneath the anger, there was a deep sadness.

Mingi looked up and his eyes widened in surprise when he saw you. He quickly stood up, a guilty expression crossing his face. Jia followed his gaze and her smile faltered.

Your breath started to come in short, rapid gasps, and you felt a tightness in your chest that made it hard to breathe. The world seemed to blur, the edges of your vision darkening as you struggled to focus. You didn't welcome this feeling like you did Death.

"Y/N!"

Tears streamed down your face, but you barely noticed them. In the midst of your panic, you heard Mingi, calling out for you. But you couldn’t respond. Trembling and gasping for air, you hoped that the storm inside would eventually pass.

"Cirrus. Cirrus, help me," you sob, clutching your chest as you called for your dragon.

The emotional connection between dragon and rider was unbreakable, forged through years of trust and companionship. Even from the caverns of your family’s estate, Cirrus could sense your anguish. The telepathic bond between you and your dragon was strong, allowing her to feel your fear and pain as if it were her own. She whimpered, her massive form shifting restlessly as she desperately tried to find a way to get to you. 

Mingi stood in the doorway of your hospital room, his silhouette framed by the dim light from the hallway. Guilt etched across his face as he met your gaze.

“What is it?” Your rasped, your voice held a mixture of hurt and anger. You had been sedated after your episode outside in the courtyard, the scent of sterile hospital air still clinging to your skin.

“I-I didn’t want you to find out this way,” Mingi stammered, twisting his fingers.

“Find out? So you were going to keep this affair a secret?” Your tone was sharp, cutting through the tension. 

“Things haven’t been the same since…the accident,” he whispered.

“Of course it hasn’t!” Tears welled up in your eyes. “I never asked for this! I admit it was my fault, I got myself into this mess. But you're the last person I ever imagined hurting me!"

"I'm sorry, Y/N."

“You’re sorry?” you scoffed, bitterness coating your tongue. “You’re sorry you got caught. I thought things were getting better when you came by more frequently. I was looking forward to seeing you because you’ve been the best part of my day for the last four months.”

You shake your head. "But it was only to see her. And then you pretend to care about my wellbeing. You're pathetic."

Mingi hesitated, then took a deep breath. “I do care for you. And I…I’ve been thinking a lot about us, about our future. These past few months have been difficult,” he pauses, holding out for your reaction. Your silence is more than enough for him to continue. "We’ve been growing apart and I don’t want us to end up resenting each other.”

"Why didn’t you tell me sooner? Why let me believe everything was fine?”

“I thought I could work through it,” he admitted, his voice breaking. His eyes flashed with sorrow. “Because everything's changed. We’ve changed.”

“Changed?” you scoffed, your voice rising. “You mean you can’t handle the reality of my situation.”

Mingi grew up in the modest yet proud surroundings of House Song, a vassal house to House Choi, far removed from the grandeur and opulence of the Great Houses. His family, though not of noble origin, held a respected position within Aurora, serving loyally under one of the Great Houses.

Despite the lack of grandeur, his childhood was rich with lessons in humility and resilience, eventually befriending you during your time at the academy. He shared his secrets, dreams, and fears, spending countless nights talking about his future and imagining all the adventures you would have together as riders.

Mingi stood witness to all your antics. Like the time you smuggled Cirrus’ egg under your sweater, like a pregnant woman, avoiding detection from the instructors. Or the day you threatened to toss the egg into a volcano if Cirrus didn’t hatch soon. Mingi was there, a constant presence—a fixture in your life.

Love tiptoed in like a quiet revelation. Perhaps it was during an Astrology assignment, tracing imaginary lines in the sky. And the way your eyes crinkled with laughter when you got your grades back on the assignment and beat Mingi by a single point, despite doing the work together.

Or maybe it was when your sister bet Eos could beat Cirrus in a wrestling match and you lost, which meant that you were forced to clean out the caverns. And the way Mingi quietly got down on one knee and asked if he could help you clean dung forever.

Forever seemed like a thing of the past.

Mingi steels himself for the words that would change everything. “You know that's not fair. And I don't want to leave you but..."

“But what? You’ve already strayed,” you interject, your voice laced with pain.

“Staying together out of guilt or obligation isn’t fair to either of us,” Mingi's shoulders slump, tearing his gaze away from you. "I think it’s best if we end things.”

The weight of his words hung in the air, the hospital room suddenly feeling smaller, suffocating. You looked away, heart heavy filled with the weight of unspoken fears and shattered dreams.

Sighing, you took the kettle off its stand and poured water into your teacup. “Riders don’t choose their dragons; the dragon chooses you,” you muttered under your breath as steam rose to fog your glasses. It was a mantra all dragon riders lived by, a truth that resonated deeply within you.

You forced yourself to spend hours reading ancient texts in your hospital bed, learning about different dragon lineages, brushing up on dragon anatomy, biology—anything to distract from your recovery and the breakup. The pages of the books surrounding your hospital bed became a step away from the pain and towards a new purpose.

Now, two years later, you were a researcher at the Department of Conservation and Preservation at the Auroran Institute of Dragonology. Your mission: protect endangered dragon species and maintain the delicate balance between humans and dragons. 

“Your Grace!”

Your head snapped up at the title. A member of high society gracing the hallways of your department was unheard of. You joined your colleagues, who had also emerged from their offices, all eager to witness this unexpected visitor. 

His presence was magnetic, drawing the attention of everyone in the vicinity. His attire was immaculate, a testament to his noble status, and his confident stride exuded an air of authority. 

“I need a new dragon,” he declared, turning to the gaggle of advisors behind him.

You raised an eyebrow. So he’s the one making demands.

“Yes, Your Grace, but what happened to Edge?”

The dragon rider scoffed, waving his gloved hand dismissively. “Edge is old news. He’s lost… his edge. I need a faster, sleeker beast—one worthy of my skills.”

You clenched the handle of your cup. You’d seen this type before—the racers who believed they were invincible, riding on the wings of their own ego. Dragons aren’t machines. You believed them to be sentient beings, rich with history and wisdom.

“I have six months to get into the saddle and train a dragon that can match my ambition. I can’t lose to Song Mingi over the Inferno Cup,” he said, placing a hand on his hip. “The one my House has hosted since dragons were put on this earth,” he reminded the advisor.

Oh. The gears started turning in your head as you put all the pieces together. The Inferno Cup. A member of high society. The ridiculously good looks.

Park Seonghwa. Racing prodigy and heir to House Park.

“With all due respect, Your Grace, six months is not enough time for a young dragon to learn the ways of the sky!” one of the advisors said quietly.

Seonghwa’s eyes narrowed. “Your insubordination is intolerable. How hard can it be to find a new dragon? It doesn’t need to be a fledgling—any dragon that can outpace Song Mingi’s will suffice!” He spun on his heel, his coat billowing behind him as he stormed away.

A rivalry with Song Mingi? You drummed your fingers against the side of your cup, weighing the reckless decision you were about to make. You watched Seonghwa leave, your expression shifting to one of cold calculation. You weren’t sure how successful you could be in manipulating him into ensuring that Mingi would be dealt with, but you were willing to try.

So you made a run for it.

The doors to Director Jung Wooyoung’s office burst open, Seonghwa’s advisors trailing behind after being unceremoniously left out of their young lord's plans. He strode down the corridor with an air of authority, drawing the eyes of curious onlookers and researchers.

“Your Grace!” one of his advisors called out, bowing deeply as he caught up on Seonghwa’s left. “What did you learn from Director Jung?”

“Nothing of consequence. I must visit the archives.”

“W-what do you mean? Are you saying they don’t have a dragon?”

“No,” Seonghwa quipped, ignoring his advisor. Another advisor flanked his right side, quickening his pace in an attempt to keep up. Seonghwa couldn’t fathom why his mother insisted these old fools accompany him.

“Your Grace, wait!”

“I need a new dragon," he declared, turning to the gaggle of advisors behind him. Perhaps a slight loss of composure would deter these hacks from trailing him incessantly.

“Yes, Your Grace, but whatever happened to Edge?”

The dragon rider scoffed, waving his gloved hand dismissively. “Edge is old news. He’s lost…his edge. I need a faster, sleeker beast—one that’s worthy of my skills.”

“I have six months to get into the saddle and train a dragon that can match my ambition. I can’t lose to Song Mingi over the Inferno Cup,” he said, putting a hand on his hip. “The one my House has hosted since dragons were put on this earth,” he reminded the advisor.

“With all due respect, Your Grace, six months is not enough time for a young dragon to learn the ways of the sky!" one of the advisors said quietly.

Seonghwa’s eyes narrowed. “Your insubordination is intolerable. How hard can it be to find a new dragon? It doesn’t need to be a fledgling—any dragon that can outpace Song Mingi’s will suffice!” He spun on his heel, his coat billowing behind him as he stormed away.

“I can help you beat Song Mingi!”

A voice called out to him, halting him in his tracks, the tail of his long coat sweeping behind them. There you stood, a plain researcher with glasses perched high on the bridge of your nose, framed by messy, unkempt bangs. It was clear that Jung Wooyoung was overworking his staff. What could a researcher possibly know about dragon racing?

“What do you know about beating Song Mingi?”

“I know he beat you with that brute dragon of his,” you shot back with a smirk.

Seonghwa frowned, unimpressed with your sarcasm. His jaw tightened, as he crossed his arms over his chest, waiting for a more serious answer.

“It’s pretty obvious that Longhorns are brutes; they’re built for strength but lack the stamina of most other dragons. Ajax is only faster than your average Longhorn because his mother was crossbred to a Fury,” you rolled your eyes at the mention of the incredibly rare breed.

“How do you know that Mingi’s dragon has Fury blood?” His eyes narrowed, suspicion and curiosity mingling in his gaze. The revelation was unexpected, and he was clearly intrigued by the potential advantage this information could provide.

You hesitated for a moment, your jaw tightening at the memory of how your relationship with Mingi had ended. The pain was still there, just beneath the surface. “Oh, uh… he’s my ex-fiancé,” you admitted.

“Ex-fiancé, huh?” he said, his tone laced with a mix of skepticism and interest. “Well, that certainly adds a twist to things.”

He took a moment to process the information, his mind clearly racing with the implications. The fact that you had such a personal connection to his rival was unexpected, and it opened up a world of possibilities. Seonghwa’s frown deepened, not out of displeasure, but as he considered how this new piece of information could be leveraged.

You stood in stark contrast to Song Mingi. You were… unremarkable, at least by Seonghwa’s standards. A fierce competitor like Mingi couldn’t possibly have been engaged to a measly researcher like you, or so it seemed. Yet, beneath the surface, there was a complexity and resilience that shined, despite your bookish demeanor. 

“If you’re looking to beat Ajax, you’re going to need a dragon bred for agility and stamina. I suggest a Dreamwood.” 

He took a step closer, zeroing on you like a predator sizing up its prey. “And where might I find a Dreamwood, hm?” he asked, his tone mocking.

“What kind of racer are you? Don’t you do any research on breeds before you plan on piloting them?” 

“I have someone for that,” he replied nonchalantly.

“Gods,” you muttered under your breath, rubbing your temples in exasperation. The audacity of this smug bastard. But this is what you get for attempting to goad the heir to House Park and dragon rider extraordinaire, Park Seonghwa, into exacting revenge on your former fiancé and his rival.

“If it pleases Your Grace, my House would be most honored to provide you with a dragon. I can assure you that our lineage traces back to the very founding of the Great Houses, and we’ve taken great care to preserve the form and function of Dreamwoods through the centuries. We’ve also significantly improved their temperament to ensure–”

“Drop the act. Why haven’t there been any Dreamwoods on the skyway as of late?” Seonghwa’s question caught you off guard, his piercing gaze demanding an answer.

You swallowed hard. “Males are hard to come by these days. The ones we’ve bred are still too young to be considered viable prospects. We could import an outcross from Dune, but House Choi has no immediate plans for breeding.”

You knew that wasn’t the whole truth. Since your accident, you had abandoned the idea of continuing Cirrus’ bloodline and breeding altogether. The trauma of your accident had left you unwilling to revisit that part of your life. Besides, there were plenty of young dragons bred by your grandmother and sister, ready and waiting. Cirrus herself was content, living a peaceful life as your companion. 

“Look, if you’re desperate–”

“I’m not desperate,” he growled, his eyes narrowing dangerously.

“That’s not what it sounds like. What was it again? Ah! ‘I have six months to get into the saddle and train a dragon that can match my ambition–’”

Seonghwa stepped closer, his voice dropping to a menacing whisper. “I could ruin your life right here and now, lowborn. You have no idea who you’re talking to.”

You met his gaze, unflinching. “And you have no idea what you're up against. Your hurt ego and losing to Mingi is one thing but Ajax is another. You've seen him and know he’s a monster."

The room fell silent, the weight of your words hanging in the air. Hybrids were common in racing, their mixed traits often giving them an edge on the skyway. But your philosophy for purebred dragons was rooted in a deep respect for history and tradition, with their unique abilities honed over generations.

Ajax wasn’t just a dragon; he was a force of nature, a creature of unparalleled power and ferocity. Dubbed the “Bloody King”, his scales shimmering a deep, blood-red while his massive wings stretched wide, casting a shadow that seemed to swallow the light whenever he was giving chase to an opponent. He was a marvel of selective engineering, an instrument of war that somehow found its way on the skyway. 

“I've known Mingi since we were children. I was there when he bought Ajax,” you confess, your voice barely above a whisper. Memories flooded back, each one more vivid than the last. The day Mingi brought Ajax home was etched in your mind, a mix of excitement and trepidation.

Seonghwa’s eyes softened as he listened, sensing the depth of your connection to his rival.

“Ajax was just a hatchling, but even then, he had this fierce spark in his eyes. Mingi saw potential in him, something extraordinary, most likely due to his hybrid nature. But as he grew, so did the challenges. He was unpredictable.”

Seonghwa nodded, absorbing your words. “And Mingi? How did he handle it?”

A sad smile crossed your lips. “Mingi was determined, almost to a fault. He believed in Ajax, believed that he could harness that raw power. But it wasn’t easy. There were times when Ajax’s feral nature got the better of him, and it took everything to keep him under control. You’d think the bond with your dragon would be enough but you can’t beat instinct.”

“Why are you telling me this?”

“Because you need to understand what you’re up against,” you replied, your voice steady despite the emotions swirling within you. “And if you’re going to face him again, you need to be prepared for anything.”

Seonghwa took a deep breath, the enormity of the task ahead sinking in. “I’ll think about your offer,” he said, his voice steadier this time.

“You will!?” You perked up at his words, eyes widening with a mix of surprise and excitement. The sudden shift in your demeanor was a stark contrast to the tension that had filled the space moments before. 

“But you should probably brush up on your pitch. It was lacking.”

“Lacking!?” you scoffed, indignant. “I’ll have you know that I take pride in my family’s longstanding practice of preservation breeding–”

“You said Song Mingi’s dragon was produced by a Longhorn and a Fury. How did he find the breeder?”

“Mingi bought him when we were 15. I know he came with registration papers but you’re going to have to visit the archives for that information,” you jerked your thumb in the opposite direction, earning a bewildered expression from Seonghwa.

Your eyes widened. “Don’t tell me that you have a shit sense of direction?”

His eyes narrowed. “I assure you, I don’t.”

“And yet,” you smirked, “you claim to be a dragon rider?”

“I’ll find what I need in the archives.”

“Like your sense of direction?” you teased, taking a step back. “Think about the offer. If you’re determined to beat Song Mingi, pay my grandma a visit. She’s quite fond of pretty boys.”

Your reasoning was petty and juvenile. Your heart was a storm of emotions after discovering that Mingi had betrayed you. The pain of his infidelity cut deep, but beneath the hurt, a fierce determination burned. You would not let this betrayal go unanswered, and Park Seonghwa was the key to that.

<< prologue | ii >>

“There won’t be any rush. I think I might reconsider the importance and urgency of my plans for a little while now that I’ve refocused on what really matters.” San looked up at the cloudy sky; the stars were never visible from here.

i did a headstand to feel normal about this. my favorite part.

as a theatre musical kid who was always was attached to the screen since childhood, i think im keeping this mc close to my heart. i have never seen a character wanting to be a musical actor like my heart blossomed. althought reader became an actor ITS THE DREAM THAT COUNTS I FELT RECOGNISED AAAAA ☹️❤️‍🩹

i absolutely and wholly loved the character development. the little moments when his generosity and gentleness actually was a whiplash to the reader. san is just so lovable and so so so homely i almost shed a tear AAAA they're too adorable i was literally like this

& action! (oneshot) mature!

✧ afab!reader x choi san ✧ reader is an unknown actress & san is a popular actor ✧genre: non-idol, show business, strangers, from dislike to interest ✧ word count: 8k ✧ warnings: san’s an asshole in the beginning, rude comments, insecurities, deep kiss with tongue and teeth but it's short, she/her for mc, nickname "pretty girl", mdni!

after countless boring little acting roles, you are finally cast as the female lead for an upcoming streaming series. everything would be perfect, if not for learning that the male lead is none other than choi san, highly praised for his skills but known to harshly criticize and even look down on his female co-stars.

a/n: this oneshot taught me i am not good at writing mean san. i wrote this 2 weeks ago but i didn't like it. now ended up editing the parts i was iffy about. it's a cliche plot of the mean guy going soft for you. i hope it still might be a fun read 🫶 this was inspired by a ranking of "top worst k-drama actors behind the scenes". there are no suggestive scenes but since there's rude talking, i will consider it mature, so mdni

As a child, you dreamed of becoming a musical artist, standing on stage and singing beautiful songs that made others cry. But reality was always by your side. Your family made just enough to give you a decent, average life, something you were thankful for, and you never blamed them for being unable to afford vocal lessons. Instead, you joined your school’s theatre group, went to college, and started affordable acting lessons in between several part-time jobs to pay for a dream that kept changing. Maybe you couldn’t perform the way you wanted, but there could still be a way to be out there. It was a fool’s dream, but some of you thought maybe if you just became a successful actress, you could chase your original wish when money was less of a problem and names opened doors.

Of course, you knew it was just as foolish, with hundreds of thousands of desperate souls trying to become the next big name in the acting industry. Your family wasn’t fond of it, but after receiving the long-desired college major for marketing, they gave their blessing, and you were lucky. A small agency was looking for what they called ‘fresh faces, raw and with unique talents.’ You had low expectations when you auditioned because your special skill was singing, but it seemed your dream was still there. The casting manager was in tears when you finished one of your favorite musical songs. A magical moment.

One that was over by the time you signed your contract and faced reality. You were a nobody, and the tiny roles you got weren’t enough to pay the bills. You started working part-time in a higher-class clothing store with brand names every child knew and you likely would never be able to afford if your streak of poor roles continued.

Two years of playing background store visitor, neighbor’s girl, the average student thirsting over the main lead for three seconds never to be seen again, and your biggest hit so far: the quick flirt of a vet who was weak for you before shaking his head remembering the female lead.

There was no doubt, you slowly questioned your own intelligence because why were you doing this? Years after graduation and in an office, as boring as it would be, you already could lead a decent life with a larger apartment that wasn’t smaller than your college dorm and wearing your hair however you wanted.

So what changed? The popular actor who played the vet invited you and five other actors to join a TikTok dance challenge and for some reason, it went viral because people asked who this girl was who pouted so cutely. And when they started to research you, seeing that you were hard-working rather than a foolish girl thinking beauty alone carried it, you were supported rather than a meme.

It all could be so perfect if not…

“You know, I have never seen anyone as dejected about being cast as the main female lead in one of the biggest productions of popular streaming platforms as you. You went from being ignored for too long to getting one of the best big debuts. I mean it, the plot of this is decent, you won’t just play some poor and confused girl who meets the rich lead.”

Yeosang was both a curse and a blessing. He was one of your agency’s managers and in charge of you for years, often complaining how the agency did not give you the role castings they should in favor of their bigger names when he saw the potential in you. Maybe it seemed odd to some, but the former child model had a good understanding of the industry, and you always appreciated his insights and advice. He had come to prefer being behind the stage rather than in the spot light.

On the other hand, Yeosang was awfully honest, sometimes a little too much when you just wanted to sulk while being driven to the table read in the fanciest car they had given you so far.

“It’s because of the male lead,” you muttered, and Yeosang frowned.

There had been a very short-notice casting change of the main lead, and you went from absolute excitement about a well-respected and liked name in the industry to pure horror. Choi San likely had one of the most dedicated fan bases out there, but among actors, it was no secret that he wasn’t shy to speak his opinion. No, there even was an incident where he managed to convince the production company to switch the female lead in the middle, and they had to start over. The writers wanted somebody more classy on the cast, and thus, you only learned about it yesterday.

“You have heard all those stories. He calls you out if you do not live up to his expectations, he will call you out and make the entire filming process a nightmare. It will be the worst three months of my life.”

If you messed this up, that would be it — no second chances for female leads who did not win over the viewers.

It was worse because there was also a rather intimidating scene where they would get close after some incident, and he would make her feel a certain way, lots of kissing and partly undressing. They promisedit was very professionally but … How were you meant to film something like that with a man who would look down at you?

Yeosang snapped his fingers in front of your face, and you blushed.

“Y/N, breathe! Let’s wait and see how it goes. I am sure the casting director considered that or else, as harsh as it is, they also would have replaced you. Being a new name for the larger audience, it would not have been a big deal for them.”

Maybe his honesty was good after all.

“You are right, sorry. Ignore it, I guess I am just nervous.”

Yeosang squeezed your hand. “And that is fine, this is your big chance, and I know you will give it your all.”

You didn’t expect just how many people would be there for the first official reading. While you had already received the script, considering filming was about to start in less than a week, it surprised you how not only the main cast was there but also the makeup team, stylists, and a few people you didn’t know but assumed were in charge of the infamous indirect sponsoring of brands who likely decided if they were interested in wasting money on you.

The story was mostly told from your character’s perspective and suddenly, you understood why they spent an hour on your makeup: fresh but natural, your hair braided over your shoulder, and a casual outfit of jeans, a tank top, and a denim jacket, giving you a confident but youthful look. If they looked at you today and decided you did not live up to their brand’s expectations, that was it for them.

A particular male lead, on the other hand, did not have to try; he looked like a god even without any makeup. Jeans and an oversized white shirt, slightly open to reveal some of his chest, with glasses that made him look elegant, and hair styled back.

The moment Yeosang and you entered, all attention was on you. You smiled politely, as you always did, advised not to act any different from the much more casual and small readings the ‘npc of the acting industry’ usually received.

“Miss Y/N, I am very excited to see you,” said Mister Nam, the leading producer, whom you had already met during the casting process.

You accepted his hand and bowed: “It is nice to meet you again, Sir. I am very much looking forward to working with you.” And like that, you went through a row of people to greet, bow, and thank, even though you had no idea who they were. It was the manners; you were a nobody among somebodies.

The faces you paid extra attention to were Seonghwa, the leading makeup artist for not only the production but also the promotions that would follow, and Hongjoong, the lead stylist. They seemed kind, curious, and outgoing.

Then finally, the one you did not want to see but were meant to pretend to wildly fall in love with for the following three months.

“Mister Choi,” you bowed politely. He was a senior of yours and likely expected the usual treatment. As you looked up, you caught him staring, quite openly, as if making a judgment about whether you suited his aesthetic.

Officially, all those shows were from the female lead’s perspective, but they really just served as self-inserts for the mainly female viewer base who fell hard for the handsome man. There was a small grin on his lips, but he did not even waste a breath to greet you, like he decided in that moment to test your limits.

You managed to keep it together and sat down next to him. The reading was long and unnecessary, mainly the producer talking, with several inside jokes in favor of your co-actor and details already known to those involved. It was almost at the end when everyone was supposed to go and take photos for the press announcement, and they looked at you.

“We do have a small unexpected moment planned, one that actually isn’t in the official script yet but when I found out I could not resist. Miss Y/N is a very talented singer.”

Oh no.

“So we added a scene. We currently have a well-known songwriter producing a few lines for us, and the song will bring some tears.”

“Aren’t we all looking forward to that?” San added lightheartedly, likely noticing how you grabbed your jacket under the table a little tighter. They all laughed.

With that, everyone left the room except you and your male lead, as it was tradition to give the two of you a few minutes to get to know each other. While you were trying to find anything kind to say, this asshole did not even bother. Instead, he leaned closer.

“Listen, pretty girl. I have worked with your kind before. You were lucky and somehow caught the interest of a producer without any real passion, skill, or will to go through this properly. This show will be my last one before I go abroad; I cannot let it flop because you think your face does the job.”

He tilted his way to show you how unimpressed he seemed of you up to this point.

“You better not waste my time. I give you one day. If your acting is shit, you are out. Do you get it? While he is charmed by you, I have worked with Nam before and his moods change like the weather. A good friend of mine would suit this role perfectly, and she and I share great chemistry. She’s just one call away.”

You wished he would just intimidate you to the point where you were scared, but somehow, something in your mind decided to be insane instead.

You spat in his expensive-looking clothes, leading him to yelp and withdraw.

“What the fuck’s wrong with you?!” he cursed.

In your mind, this was it. You just ended your very fragile career, but you were too terrified to act shy now. You had walked into the fire; now you couldn’t hope somebody would save you, so all you could do was… act.

“Talk to me like that again, and I will sue the hell out of you,” you replied, with no lack of hesitation in your voice, perfectly hiding how you wanted to scream or slap yourself.

It was unfair how he could be like that just because he had major successful roles in the past few years.

With that, you grabbed your phone and walked out of the room. Yeosang seemed surprised that you were so quick to return. He expected the two of you would have a proper conversation, as the chemistry was important, but you told yourself you’d just see if you really were cut out for this by faking chemistry that certainly was not there.

“Do I want to know?” he asked, brows furrowed when you shook your head eagerly, leaving.

“I can’t believe she just spat at me,” San replied, sighing at his friend who was slowly fixing his makeup.

“To be honest, I’d probably have done about the same, you know? Why do you always have to be such an asshole? Once upon a time, you were a nobody. I remember your first role, the son of the teacher. You were so adorable, struggling to catch any role until you decided to bulk up a few years ago. Now, you steal the dreams of women and men alike.”

The taller one only leaned back once he was satisfied with the natural makeup again, just gaining a stare from the actor.

“Yes, exactly. People pointed fingers at me, so I proved them wrong by working hard, changing myself, and then actively going for roles. I got cast for my looks AND my skills. Those female leads they give me, they chose them because they are pretty, or ended up going viral for some nonsense not because they enjoy the craft.”

Seonghwa sighed as he slowly stood up: “Sannie, you are far too hard. You know, just because somebody took longer than you and received fewer roles does not mean they did not try.”

Of course, he knew as much, but there just was no way around it. If this drama would be a success, he’d finally be able to leave this market and branch out. San wanted to be remembered as an actor, not the face of some k-dramas of the early 2020s.

“At least, give her a chance. That would be fair, yeah? If she really is such a poor actress as you seem to want to believe so desperately, then I will not be in your way. But should she show to have actual passion and talent, I’ll be in your way, handsome.”

San just watched as the makeup artist walked out, and he looked in the mirror again. He looked great; that was what they all told him. But sometimes, he felt like the look and the roles he often was given — the cold and rich asshole who only warmed up in the last part of the series —somehow it seemed to start swallowing up the one who was once Choi San, the one who dreamed of walking on international carpets.

Such a silly dream.

“Tsk, she will be thankful. I will be a much kinder way out of this before she wastes all her youth only to learn that she is just one of those many stupid people thinking they wanted to be on a screen.”

You looked in the mirror. This was not how you imagined the first day of recording to go. It was natural not to start with the first episode, but the idea to film a major scene as the very first seemed insane.

At least, for two actors who had never worked together before.

Maybe this was the point? Did damn Choi ask that they do this so they could kick you out because there was no way you could play the dreaded separation of the lead characters as your first time with this man?

The makeup was fantastic. You looked like you had cried for days, but your natural beauty was still there, your hair far too pretty for someone who had run through a rainstorm to speak to the one she loved, begging him not to just leave.

“You are beautiful and stubborn. This is more fire than I have seen in any rookie in a while,” Seonghwa hummed, giving you an encouraging pat on the shoulders. Somehow, you started to wonder if he knew what happened the other day.

“Your makeup is stunning. I will give my best,” you promised and watched him give you a playful wink. Your outfit took another half an hour, and you prayed quietly not to get sick because, unlike San who looked like he just walked out of a magazine, your character was supposed to be soaked in rain water. At least that scene would be shot on another day and location.

As you were positioned, you had to wait for a few minutes before San finally appeared. As it was a tradition in dramas, later on, when the male character softened up, it was shown in his hair being less bothered by products, and you could not deny, if not for knowing how he was, you’d think of him as cute.

“Everyone ready? Good, we are starting in five!” The entire set was moving in one big crowd, and you took a deep breath in, exhaling as you looked up.

It was like you were looking at another man.

San’s eyes were so soft, it almost broke your heart, and you had to remind yourself you were shooting a scene. Fuck, he really was worth that damn money, wasn’t he?

“Summer,” his warm hands cupped your cheeks, and maybe it was good how this surprised you, how different this version of that rude guy was was because it was exactly the way the scene was meant to be.

“You are so foolish. Look at you,” he whispered, his big hand brushed over your cheek, and he looked up and down, taking in your appearance. “To run all the way through the rain, what if you get sick? Silly girl, you always get cold so quickly,” his voice was so soft, you could feel the emotion, the worry he put into every word.

“I am scared,” you whispered when you felt his thumb brush over your chin, and you tried to make sure not to fuck up the pace of the scene.

“You were just going to leave by telling your sister to let me know I’d not have to worry anymore. How am I not to worry? You are gone, it’s worse than what happens if we push on… with this. I need to do this with you. Please…”

You thought about how badly you needed this acting role to work. This was your last chance before you likely really had to give up because you were almost in your mid-20s now, and soon roles would get even tougher without a name and fame.

So you begged, and for a moment, there was something hinted behind his eyes like he was actually touched.

You likely just really were going crazy because of how impressed you were about it. Seeing it in person and working with this was different.

“I’m just trying to keep you safe,” he whispered. The camera was zooming in. You started to cry, just as scripted, grabbing his shirt.

“This isn’t yours alone to decide,” you tried to push more energy in because in theory, you were meant to do just that, give him a desperate shove but San’s weight was shifting forward, making it impossible. You were slender compared to him.

“I am sorry.” he breathed.

And then Choi San acted entirely out of script. You were meant to rest your foreheads together, embraced in a deep hug before the scene would zoom out. Instead, he kissed you. The surprise in your face was anything but fake, how your body just sank against his because the arm around your waist tightened, and the way the set fell utterly silent except for the fake rain.

Oh no, he wouldn’t get you with this!

Your arm finally reached out, curling around his neck, and you kissed him back like your life depended on it.

Because it did.

Maybe all of those feelings did lead to helping with this because you needed him to be accepting of you as much as you hated it.

When the director cheered and everyone clapped because the scene was so much better with this unplanned kiss, you could only hear him whisper.

“Come, see me later. I will leave the address in your dressing room,” he removed himself, smiling and walking off with his stylist. This was the only shared scene for the day. All you could do was stare and wonder.

You cursed when you found yourself touching your lip, the sensation of kissing him still on your lips.

San found himself looking at his own reflection in the mirror. You seemed to be quite weak for his natural hair, which was amusing. Every time he went anywhere, whether for a personal event or a public appearance, people always asked him to style it back. Maybe it was because it gave him that particular mature and handsome vibe they all liked, sparking their imaginations. Yet here he was, keeping it down.

He paid great attention to detail. The suit pants went perfectly with matching shoes, but the tight, long black sleeve shirt accentuated every muscle underneath the fabric, giving plenty to look at.

San made a decision. He was simply going to mold you the way he needed you for this to be a success. After the little shot earlier today, he started to have an idea of how this arrangement might work. He’d still rather have worked with someone he knew, but there were worse options, and he had to admit, there was no denying you were pretty to look at.

The address he invited you to was one of his label’s many seminar apartments, a place for their top actors to work with whatever coach they desired. With you still being no big name in the industry, nobody would pay you any mind for showing up here, and he trusted you enough to be somewhat discreet.

He poured two glasses of an alcohol-free drink and looked at the clock. A small frown appeared; San didn’t like the possibility that you might not show up. Why would you reject a private invitation from him? He looked at his watch again, twenty minutes over the time.

“Don’t tell me she’s still trying to make a point? She really doesn’t understand when it’s just a little better to swallow her foolish pride.”

If he was honest, turned tables, he'd probably have done the same...

As he hissed, there was a small peeping sound coming from the door, he had given you the code to enter. San turned around, his head tilting slowly as he watched you enter the loft.

Your hair was down, flowing over your shoulders, likely to deal with all the water styling for your shoot today. This was the first time he saw you wearing a dress, and it suited you well, especially as the neutral makeup highlighted your natural beauty, complemented with the soft green color of the dress.

He couldn’t deny that the little angry frown on your features was endearing.

“What’s this all about? It’s highly unprofessional for the two lead actors of a drama to meet like this. Yes, I still came because …” you paused, seemingly trying to come up with a good defense, but was there one?

“I … don’t care. I just wanted to tell you that. I do not care if you deem me unfit to be an actress. We get told that all the time. This is harder for us than for you. We aren’t allowed to make mistakes; your type, on the other hand, gets away with most.”

San hummed as he listened to you, picking up the two glasses and offering one to you. “Alcohol-free. Now, why don’t we sit down and chat? I agree with you, it’s unprofessional and risky, but I do it for the success of the show if you want.”

There was confusion on your face when you still accepted the glass and watched San sit down.

“After today, I am willing to admit, I see potential in you, maybe even a hint of talent if polished properly,” he hummed, taking a sip from his drink, and pointing to the couch opposite for you to sit down.

He enjoyed all of your reactions, wondering if you were aware just how expressive you were with them.

“I don’t understand…”

Finally, you started to listen and joined him.

“Your character, Summer, she’s all about being relatable and raw. You can capture this perfectly, and your way of showing emotions — not many actors have that these days. However, you need to learn to control them, for them to come out when you need it, not when they want to.”

It seemed you took a sip from the drink just to deal with your confusion. You swallowed while San placed his glass on the table.

“How do you mean that?”

Now, he had no intention of suddenly being all kind and polite. Truths were there to cut so you learned not to do it again.

“You are like a puppy that learned to roll over and play dead, but you’re still wiggling your tail out of control so everyone knows. You need to learn to use your skill of expressing emotions so openly to your advantage, when you want it, and not because you are reacting to your co-actor. You were almost melting when we kissed.”

Your cheeks took on a dark red shade not even the makeup could hide, and San just grinned almost sweetly at you.

“Do you ever say anything nice?”

“I just did. I told you that you have potential and I invited you here. You asked me to give you a chance, your way, and I am willing. I believe if you learn how to guide your talent a little, we can benefit. The viewers have a much easier time connecting with an actress who seems to feel like that, and I need the good views. I will help you be a bit more in control. In two days, we will shoot the scene that likely will go viral if we do it right and decide if the viewers ship us, our chemistry.”

It was meant to be THE kissing scene, the one they would use for the preview and trailers, to convince everyone of their great chemistry, and their characters were meant to be lovers, not seeming lost and confused unlike in the scene today.

“The kiss was promising today, but in that scene, we will actually have to make sure we capture the chemistry on point. No emotional moment occurred to explain why it would be different I will show you how to do it, so that when we shoot it, all will be quick and easy.”

San finally settled down by your side, and he could see how you just stared at him.

“I ask kindly for your permission so that you do not spit at me again,” he chuckled but leaned in close, ensuring you could feel his breath tickling your skin.

“Y/N, would you let me teach you how to play that scene perfectly, so that people may adore us when the episode airs?”

“Fine.”

He was still rude, but the truth was you had come here hoping that maybe the two of you could find a middle ground. San did not need to madly fall in love with you; all you were asking for was a chance. Yes, you knew what you were doing was a little below the belt, but show business had never been easy.

Besides, he was not forcing you. Here he was, asking, and maybe, in a way, you both depended on it.

San still seemed too pleased, but he was relaxing back, giving you another look: “I take it you have studied the scene already. The benefit of us speaking ahead of the record is we can see to adjust it our way. Take it as advice for the future; you are the actor, and you can act in a way that makes those scenes a little more endurable.”

He reached out and played with a few strands of your hair. Maybe this would be a good idea; if you got comfortable with him, acting in those love scenes you were soon going to film could be easier, and you would no longer have to overthink if he was going to trick you.

“Episode five, after Baek and Summer go to the auction to save his mother’s necklace from being sold off, they return to her place. It’s before he intends to run away, so the atmosphere is playful and sensual. Baek admires her beauty from afar before slowly moving over. He places the necklace around her neck, his finger playing with it, and then he loosens her hair, and they kiss, tongue and biting."

Any time San was surprised, you felt a level of satisfaction that you managed to do just that, but quickly, it turned into a pleased smile.

“That’s exactly it. I see you memorized it. The scene is early on, and if we manage to carry over the chemistry there, the heartbreak later will be efficient. Good for us; your outfit is perfect. You just have to tie up your hair, and we can move over to the door and begin right at the start. It will help us if we play through the entire scene. We go through it, but any time you feel uncomfortable, voice it. We can practice and cheat with the perspective, so the kiss is not too awkward but satisfying to the producers.”

You slowly rose, fixed your dress, and cleared your throat as you tied up your hair loosely while walking over to the door. San was right there, relaxing against the door, grinning at you: “Are you ready, pretty girl?”

Really? You hissed a little: “What’s up with the name? Can people not come up with better insults?”

San hummed, shrugging a little: “Not an insult. You are that, a pretty girl. What’s wrong with it? I mean it, but if you want to strictly keep it professional, think of it as a way to warm up. The characters return from the auction, they managed to reach their goal, and now, in a mood of celebration, a couple all comfortable and confident. We have to get in the mood.”

That was fair, so you grinned: “All right then, hottie. Shall we get going?” He wasn’t annoyed at all, more pleased that you got the point, or so you guessed.

You walked to the door, taking his hand as San seemed to inhale before just falling into the role. It was like there was a switch, leaving his personality behind and becoming his character entirely.

“I can’t believe we really did it, seeing their faces when you just jumped up and then did the final bid the second it was about to end,” San sighed in relief as he turned around and looked at you.

It was silly, you looked at him, and your heart was beating a little; this was the most passion you had worked with yet. Not that the other actors had been poor at their jobs, but it felt more routine, like they just got it done because it was written in the script.

You smirked: “Of course, I told you. Never underestimate my talent! I knew they would not see that one coming, but now it’s done. I am glad we were able to get the necklace back. I know how much it means to you.”

Your arms curled around his neck, and you went on your toes to get closer to his face. San’s eyes wandered all over your face like you were the most beautiful person he had ever encountered.

“That is because you truly are the most amazing person I have ever met, Summer,” he whispered and allowed one of his hands to wander up, placing it very gently underneath your chin. Your gazes locked for some time.

“Stay the night?” you whispered, your tone more playful now. Slowly, you let go of him, turning around playfully, giving him an inviting look as you settled down on the couch. Right, Summer was about to take out her earrings. You did not wear any, but you wore some hair clips, so you gently removed them, placing them on the table.

San was watching you, leaning against a door. The two of you did everything extra slow since shooting a scene meant you did it more than once quite often if the camera needed a different perspective and did not always capture it right away on the first try.

As he moved slowly to you, your gaze lowered a little, and he sat down next to you.

“You are starring, Sir,” you teased. This actually wasn’t part of your dialogue, but somehow, it felt natural. Your character was supposed to be a little all over the place but not shy, at least not in this scene. If San was permitted to add as he wished, why not you?

“What can I do? It’s hard not to look at you,” he smiled softly and reached out, brushing over your chin before his gaze lowered, resting on your neck.

San seemed to think for a moment before he slowly leaned back. The moment when Baek would take out the box with the necklace, your co-star replaced it by unclipping the one he had been wearing underneath his tight long sleeve.

“And maybe that is because seeing you in this really is a dream come true,” he whispered, and as he leaned in, you felt his breath tickling your skin, the scent of a perfume you had never smelled before. He gently placed it around your neck. In the show, this would be some kind of elegant piece, but San had given you something long with a metal tag on the end.

Curiosity was fought back to look at it. Your fingers only touched the cool metal chain around your neck.

“But… this is your mother’s. You should keep it…” you tried to insist, but San moved closer.

“My mom wanted it to be on the neck of my future wife, and while we are both too young to think about it just yet, it is right where it belongs, Y/N,” he was so close now that you naturally leaned slightly closer.

The fact he called you by your name was surprising, and there it was again, the moment he did it on purpose. Was it to teach you the lesson of trying to control your emotions rather than being controlled by them or something else?

“I love you, Y/N,” San said so passionately that you needed to swallow hard. It was good that from this point on, the scene was only meant to be carried by acting and no further words.

His big hand moved and pulled the hairband out, allowing your hair to fall over your shoulder.

“You truly are beautiful, you know?” he breathed, and he was close to kissing you now. The camera was meant to capture the teeth and tongue, just to give the viewers some imagination without breaking what was acceptable for an evening show.

“Is it comfortable like that, or should I move a little?” he asked, and his voice was warm and sincere. What was wrong with the guy? Couldn’t he always be so kind and supportive?

“It’s okay like that, thank you,” you whispered, a little shy. San just smiled and nodded as he leaned in.

Your arm carefully moved to rest on his back, and then you kissed him harder than intended. It started slow and soft, but somehow you felt encouraged to show him that you could do this because you wanted to, and the force you used was a bit stronger than intended. You wanted to play with the camera too, capture the tease without too much. Your teeth bit his lower lip, and you gave him a challenging look, your tongues met in a playful dance.

You had his attention entirely. San was grinning and about to depen the kiss a little further than intended based on script but then the door opened.

The two of you instantly froze, and it was hard to say if it was relief or shame, but it was Seonghwa who stepped inside, looking beyond alarmed.

“What are the two of you doing here?!”

Now that you thought about it… you could imagine what this would look like.

“San?!” Seonghwa was strict, and the way he spoke like that with him made you wince.

You were about to sit up, trying to say something when San stood protectively in front of you.

“This was my idea. I thought it would help her relax since we are shooting this scene in two days. It’s tough, being expected to film this kind of kiss with a person that’s an asshole.”

Seonghwa and you both stared at him, and you wondered why that was. Did San never do this before, or was there something else to it?

The makeup artist sighed, shaking his head: “If anyone would have… never mind. We just got a call, and we have to shoot one of the night scenes tonight, so you have to come with me.”

You cleared your throat, fixing your dress again.

“Yes, you should go. Thank you for guiding me through the scene.”

San was looking at Seonghwa before looking back at you, and somehow, he seemed oddly displeased.

As you started to take the necklace off your neck, he shook his head: “Keep it. Think of it as a poor apology gift for insulting you during the table read. I'm sorry for that. I’ll see you on set tomorrow.”

San stepped out without even giving you a chance to say anything. Seonghwa only offered a small smile before he followed out.

As you were alone, you sighed: “Yeosang will murder me if he finds out about this.”

You played with the necklace and finally remembered the tag. As you turned it around, it was a name that said nothing to you until something came to mind. You pulled out your phone and browsed through San’s filmography.

Right, his first role was playing the son of a very popular actress at that time. He only had two scenes, enlisting into the military to be written off in episode three. The name on this tag was of that character. San just gifted you something from his very first set, likely very special if he bothered to wear and keep it after all those years.

“This guy, can he please decide what his personality is like?”

“Hey, Joong, do you think San has the celebrity sickness?” you asked while standing still, watching what the stylist was trying to decide for you to wear for the preview photos.

It had been a strange month. You had barely filmed with San, or at least it felt that way. Most of your scenes had been with the other cast members first, and only now were they starting to focus more on the actual ones with the romantic interest.

However, ever since that day, San seemed different. He was polite, greeted you, and a few days ago, you could have sworn he even smiled at you when you accidentally spilled cappuccino over the expensive jacket that was a product placement.

The man laughed: “I didn’t take you for somebody who uses such words.” He was obviously amused while holding a few blouses against you, trying to see which one he liked best with your hair color.

“I mean, I did read how some actors have it when they find success and then later look back, realizing they have been little rich monsters.”

Hongjoong had once said he enjoyed that you were still quite uncaring with your words around the staff who were not the ones making big choices, and it likely reflected in this moment as well.

“Little monster, you say? Well, I admit that San has changed over the years. I worked on some previous projects with him, but I wouldn’t say it was fame. You see, San had to work really hard and change quite a bit to get where he is now. He’s not the height producers want, and he used to be a very soft personality. When he was rejected for a really important role after first being announced as the pick, he sat down, bulked up, and changed to the way he is now. I do not think he has celebrity sickness, but show business does change people, not always for the better, especially if you do not have somebody to keep you grounded. You see, his best friend moved abroad after college. He was the one who always balanced him, but these days, San spends a lot of time alone. How do you like this one?”

You had gotten used to going with Hongjoong’s outfit recommendations and Seonghwa’s makeup guidelines. You were about to be a lead actress for the public, and even your social media had to match it.

“I think I like the mint one,” you said, more lost in thought and aware of Hongjoong’s little grin.

“It’s your color. Now, how about we say this set is the most relaxed I have seen him in a while, yes? Anyway, it is getting late, and I know the actors are meant to go out and have barbecue together today. Half of the filming is done now. You work hard and should relax a little. Get some rest tomorrow. In two days, we will take the most beautiful photos.”

The stylist winked and sent you off. All you could do was sigh as you pulled on your thin jacket again. You wore jeans and a blouse gifted by a brand, your hair up in a modern bun, and delicate earrings finishing the look. Underneath, the gifted necklace was hidden. Everyone else was likely already there, and you realized how you were the only one without a car or a driver. Now that filming was going well, there was no reason for Yeosang to be by your side the entire day.

“Need a ride?”

San’s voice made you look up, and for a moment, you thought you might be imagining it. His hair was undone, glasses sat on his nose, and he had a very lazy smile on his lips. The jeans and oversized hoodie with a jacket on top were quite different from the always very styled actor you knew.

“I… would like that, thank you,” you cleared your throat. He nodded and led you to his car, which was parked not too far away. To your surprise, it was also quite on the average side, but then it made sense. If you were famous, you would likely try to keep some privacy.

San waited for you to get in and get comfortable before he started to drive. You were silent until the first red traffic light forced the two of you to stop.

“Do you have celebrity sickness?” you blurted out and did not dare look at him, sinking into your seat when he laughed softly.

“Do you think so?” he asked, and you were relieved to see he was taking this incredibly dumb question with a humor you hadn’t expected. He was tapping against the wheel, and eventually, you dared to peek over. To your surprise, he actually seemed to be thinking about it.

“You were an ass when we first met. Sure, I am not really the super-experienced actress, but it was a bit too strong,” you mumbled.

“Maybe I did. Wooyoung always kept me grounded, but when he moved abroad, I guess I just got so used to showbiz, I forgot what it meant to be me or to show any compassion toward people who likely started acting for the same reason I did: dreaming to play a specific kind of role, a stage, or maybe go somewhere. Then, it takes somebody bold to call it out so you wake up and realize it.”

Your gazes met briefly before his focus returned to the road ahead.

“I did mean it. I am sorry I was like that, but I am thankful you dared to point it out. It won’t make up for it, but I will try to do better now. I actually contacted some of those I worked with to apologize. I don’t really think they will answer me back, but who knows?”

If he really did that, San must have gotten over a lot of pride. Even if you felt sorry, doing something like that was surely not easy.

You drove into the parking lot, and he just leaned back. “I guess you were my cure, Y/N,” he replied with a gentle smile, and the two of you stared. For a moment, it was almost as if he wanted to say or maybe do something, but you just got too nervous, opening the door of the car.

“We should go.” Before he could say anything else, you were out of the car and rushing off.

Everyone seemed surprised to see San so relaxed and wearing such a casual outfit, but there wasn’t much time to think about it. You were seated between some other cast members, and all you could do was glance over at him now and then, noting how he smiled and seemed more at ease.

Hours flew by, and before you noticed, everyone slowly excused themselves. Tomorrow would be your first free day in over a month, and you couldn’t wait to sleep in.

San and you were among the last to leave, and as you stepped outside, the night was much colder than expected. Before you could even joke about it, the weight of a leather jacket rested on your shoulders.

“You shouldn’t get sick,” he mumbled, then suddenly took your hand, walking you back to the car. It was hard to say why you let him; maybe you had gotten used to his spontaneous actions after filming several scenes together that felt quite similar.

The walk to the car suddenly felt long, and he was swinging your arms like some middle schoolers in love. He turned his head to look at you.

“Is this okay with you?” he asked, as if remembering to check in with you. It was sweet and innocent, and he almost looked troubled, fearing you might pull your hand away. You tapped a finger against your cheek, pretending to think about it before laughing.

“I guess. You still have a few weeks before I get so famous you’ll have to hide me,” you joked. Somehow, his expression told you he had thoughts about it, but those likely did not matter. Maybe he would tell you next time.

“I shall make the most out of it then, and for all else, people do love the story of two actors who played love interests admitting they fell in love on set… in theory. So, what if, once filming is wrapped up, you’d go out with me?”

“Somebody is getting bold,” you replied without thinking, cursing yourself for letting your emotions get the better of you. But then, you thought about it. There was no denying that you had grown fond of him, enjoyed working with him, and treasured his little gift. The way he looked at you made you feel certain ways, but you couldn’t say exactly what it was just yet. Not to forget, the rough start.

Then, maybe you needed to be the one now guiding San, to find himself back again.

“I guess I wouldn’t mind seeing where things might go between us.”

That was all he needed to hear. You saw it in the way he looked at you and nodded.

“There won’t be any rush. I think I might reconsider the importance and urgency of my plans for a little while now that I’ve refocused on what really matters.”

San looked up at the cloudy sky; the stars were never visible from here.

You let him be, and the two of you just enjoyed the small walk before you got back in the car. Your apartment was quite close, and soon, he was standing in front of your building.

“Thank you for driving me and, you know, being nice,” you chuckled.

“Thanks for healing me,” he winked, but there was no obvious tease in his voice.

You exhaled as you got out of the car, leaving the door open as you turned around to look at San.

“ will see you the day after tomorrow for the photoshoot. Sleep well.” You flashed him a final smile before stepping back.

“You too, pretty girl,” he answered, his eyes not leaving you even as you closed the door and headed toward your tiny apartment.

But then … You turned around on your heels, walking back to the car, and as if reading your mind, San was opening the window.

You looked at each other playfully as you grinned: “Maybe you would like to come upstairs and have a cup of water, handsome?”

San laughed, turning off the engine. “I like the sound of that.”

Dear Supporter,

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all positive energies for you. I cant donate but if anyone else can please do.

TROT SINGER HOSHI ★★ GOING SEVENTEEN EP. 54

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