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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

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

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.

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