Kitty (part 6)

Kitty (part 6)

Parts 1-5 are available via my masterlist.

Pairings: Rei x (fem) reader Fluffy fluff, some medical jargon but nothing too descriptive! --

“Oh, back already?” Kazuki calls as you step through the front door. You can hear the sounds of daytime television drifting through. He likes to watch it when he folds the laundry.

“Yeah. Why?” Rei asks, slipping his shoes off. You haven’t spoken about the hand-holding. What is there to say, really? You mutually dropped hands as the elevator door opened, like you were afraid of getting caught. You’re trying to balance taking your own trainers off when he grabs your hand – anchoring you once more.

You smile a thanks and, again, let go as you go to greet Kazuki.

“Nothing, just curious. How was Kyu?” Rei withdraws one of the envelopes and hands it over to the blonde, who nods in appreciation.

“Fine. Nosey.”

“Nosey?”

“Asking Kitty questions.” Rei drops down on the armchair with a yawn – the late night catching up on him – and removes his phone from his pocket. “Sounded suspicious.”

“Dude, that’s his whole job.”

Kazuki turns to you as you sit down next to him, realizing he’s not going to get far with Rei who’s back to his game from earlier.

“Did you like the café?”

“Uh-huh,” you nod. “I re-remem-remembered I like c-coffee!” It’s strange rediscovering these little things about yourself. It feels momentous, like at any moment that will be the floodgate that triggers all your memories, but, really, it’s a small piece of the jigsaw puzzle. There was coffee at the house, of course there was, you served it to him every morning but you’d never taken a sip for yourself. There was enough danger in sneaking food. Water you could take from the bathrooms, greedily guzzling from the taps.

“Did you have one of Kyu’s? They’re good, right?” You nod. “I can never get Rei to try. I don’t think he has the palate.”

“Too bitter,” he grumbles.

“Well, we can enjoy the grown-up drinks and Rei can share with Miri.” The blonde teases back. Rei slouches back further in the armchair, ignoring him.

The TV blares out an upcoming promo – something about a doctor giving advice about how to live a longer, happier life. “That reminds me. Kitty, I think you should see a doctor.”

“A d-doctor?”

“Yeah. I mean, you were in that place a while and not treated well – we probably should get you checked over. There’s a clinic we use when we can’t handle something on our own – it’s no questions asked, cash in hand, under the table type stuff, but they’re legitimate doctors. I think they’d be good to give you a once over. Only if you feel okay with that, though.”

“N-no, makes s-s-sense.”

“Great! The only thing is, it’s an after-hours sort of deal so it’ll need to be an evening trip. Rei, you’ll be okay to stay here with Miri after dinner, right?”

“I can go with her.” Rei’s bolt upright now.

“You hate the doctor. Remember when you went with me so I could get a tetanus shot?”

“You screamed. I thought you were under attack.” He replies, deadpan.

“It was a big needle! I’m not sure they’ll even allow you back in after the damage you caused.” Kazuki turns to you “Plus, you’re okay to go with me, right?”

You nod - hoping you’re not hurting Rei’s feelings. It might be better to have Kazuki there too, you reason, trying to put the pieces together of their last visit.

In the afternoon, Kazuki goes to pick up Miri and Rei’s coerced you into another go of Morio Kart. You’d say you were getting better but that’d be a lie - Miri can and will beat you in a race more often than not, so you’re not sure it’s much of a challenge for Rei. The speed boosts and the drifting is the worst, you can never time it right and end up lagging behind, sometimes by over a lap. On the left-hand side of the screen you can see Rei’s character is already over the finish line and driving automatically around the course now, whilst you’re been flying off the same bit of the track for an embarrassingly long time on lap two.

“May-maybe you sh-should j-just skip. I’m h-ho-hopeless.”

“No, you’re not.” You can see him smiling to the side of you. “Here.” He scoots closer to you, looping an arm around your waist and placing his hands around yours and guiding your fingers. “Just need practice.”

You watch what he’s doing, but the angle of which his arm is seems almost unnatural. “I-is that co-com-comfortable?"

"Mm. Not really." He pauses the game a moment. “Can you scoot forward a bit?”

You shuffle forward, nearly on the edge of the sofa and he clambers behind you within a blink of an eye. His thighs are either side of your legs, his chest pressed up firm against your back. His head is above yours but he leans slightly to the side and his breath tickles your ear.

“Is this okay?”

“Y-yeah.” You’re glad he can’t see your face – you’re sure it’s now as red as Kazuki’s beloved sweatshirt.

He unpauses the game and he talks you through what he’s doing but you’re not retaining one word, his fingers are still on top of yours and operating the games controller. You can feel the bass of his voice vibrate comfortingly through your back and you let out a breath, relaxing into him.

“Kitty, are you even listening?” He asks in a teasing lilt.

“N-no.” You laugh as you say it. Saying no was still a new addition to your vocabulary, but being so close to Rei in that moment made you feel so… buoyant. He finally gets your character over the finish line.

He chuckles, lightly. “That’s okay, we’ll go again.”

He sets up a race for a solo player, and takes you through another race. You try your best to listen to him this time, to take it in, but it’s hard to concentrate when he’s so close to you…

“I think I’ve lost you again in your thoughts, hmm?” He rests his head on your shoulder as he speaks.

“S-sorry.” You speak before you can think. “No, I’m n-not sorry.”

You can feel him smile into you. “It feels nice.” He mumbles.

“It does…”

The front door opens with a bang and you jump, sliding off the sofa entirely and slipping through Rei’s arms.

“Papa Rei, Kitty, I’m home!” Miri yells.

--

“Good luck,” Rei wishes the two of you as you leave, then frowns. Is that the right thing to say before a doctor’s visit? But you give him a bright smile and a thanks, which seems to reassure him. You can tell he still feels a little excluded, but someone has to stay with Miri and he has reluctantly conceded that Kazuki is less likely to be refused entry and is probably the best to handle any medical instructions given.

The drive is quiet, which is odd for Kazuki. It’s only when you get near that he speaks up.

“It’s nice to see you and Rei hang out, you know?” He keeps his eyes on the road. “I mean, Miri’s changed him a lot, but since you've been around… He seems a bit lighter.”

“I’m g-glad.”

The clinic is on the outskirts of town and the car park’s empty when you pull up. The lights are all off, but Kazuki seems confident as he leads you to a service door around the back. He knocks on it three times and it’s answered by a burly man, who appears to recognize him. He holds his hand out and Kazuki stuffs some bills into it, before he nods and opens the door wide enough for the two of you to enter. You stick close to Kazuki and come out in what appeared to be a make-shift waiting room. There’s no-one in there at the moment, but there’s dried blood smeared across the floor under one of the chairs.

Kazuki chuckles at it, directing you to a chair facing away. “Yeah, you might see some of that…”

It isn’t long before a door opens and a tall brunette woman in a white doctor’s coat stands there, looking around. She meets Kazuki’s gaze and nods, beckoning him forward. He gets to his feet and you follow the two through down the hallway into a consultation room. She gestures for the both of you to take a seat, before shutting the door behind her. She’s no name tag on, but you think that must be deliberate. “Kazuki, it’s been a while.”

“And is that not a good thing, doctor?” He winks.

“Bad for my pockets. Who’s this?” She nods her head over to you, as she takes a seat.

“Ah, well…” He begins to relay the story for you, thankfully, as the doctor nods thoughtfully. Kazuki runs through the basics.

“And you don’t remember anything?”

“L-little bits a-a-are coming b-back.” You keep your eyes focused on your lap, hoping if you don’t meet her gaze your stutter won’t increase exponentially. “N-nothing h-h-helpful.”

“Hmm. Do you often get headaches?”

“N-no.”

“Memory loss can be a symptom of post-concussion syndrome. Any recollection of black-outs after, er, injury?”

You nod. Kazuki shifts in his seat.

“It’s hard to tell what the recovery period for that can be, unfortunately. These things might just never come back.” She twirls her pen between her fingers. “But your short-term memory’s okay?”

“Y-y-yeah. I re-member m-most th-things a-about the h-house.”

“And this stutter, have you always had that?”

“No.”

“Does it hurt to talk – your jaw, or anything?”

You shake your head. “S-sometimes, I-I feel s-sick.”

“And you,” she turns to Kazuki. “have you noticed any improvements in her speech?”

“Oh, for sure. I think you’re still nervous around new people, eh, Kitty?” You nod. “But when it’s just us, it’s getting better all the time.”

“Psychological, then. To be expected.” You like her, she’s straight to the point. You don’t want sympathy - it brings too much attention. “Any chance you could be, er, pregnant?”

You shake your head firmly.

She checks your blood pressure next – noting it’s a little low – before she checks your oxygen levels and seems happy enough.

“Can I listen to your chest?” She’s already digging a stethoscope out of a drawer and directing you. “I’ll listen via your back. Just unclip your dress and lift your top up for me.” You turn to face the wall and as you do, you see Kazuki avert his eyes to the ceiling respectfully. You unclip the dungaree straps behind you, and pull up the top. The stethoscope is cold – a cliché – as she orders you to inhale and exhale out a number of times.

“All sounds okay there. You can get dressed.”

As soon as you’re resituated, she sits down and faces you both. “So, I think we should do some bloodwork. You look on the malnourished side, so I’m sure we’re going to see some pretty severe vitamin deficiencies. I can have the tests completed in under an hour if you’re okay to wait.” Kazuki nods. “I can give you something for anxiety too, it might just take the edge off any panic you feel, help you to relax a bit. It might help the speech, might not.” She taps the pen against the desk, before she leans back in her chair. “It’s up to you whether you take them, but if you do, fair warning they’ll make you feel more anxious at first but then it’ll settle.”

You nod. You’re really hoping not to have another attack like last night. She stares at you for another minute, seeming to think something over.

“I could run x-rays to check for old injuries but, to be honest, you walked in fine and, if we found anything, there’s nothing we can do here. As you’ll know,” she looks at Kazuki, “this is usually just emergency trauma, but I understand the need for discretion in this case.” She wheels over a cart, and snaps a new pair of medical gloves on. “You good with needles?”

“I… I t-think so.”

“Mm. Look at him, not at me. I’ve no time for fainters.” She states, and you follow her instructions.

An hour later you leave the clinic, a bag of vitamins and prescription drugs in your hands and instructions for Kazuki to get more meat on your bones. The car is warm on the drive home and Kazuki’s voice is comforting – he’s running through all the meals he’s gonna make, all the nutritional benefits, but it’s getting harder to keep your eyes open and the long day is catching up on you. It’ll be fine if you just close your eyes for a second…

At some unconscious level you’re aware you’re being carried but you’re somewhere in the middle between awake and asleep and you’re so, so tired. Your eyelids feel weighed down and, try as you might, you just can’t open them and all you seem to do is snuggle further into whoever’s arms to a light chuckle. You hear a door open and there’s a voice you recognize, laced with panic.

“What happened?!” Rei.

“Easy, she’s fine. Fell dead asleep on the ride home and she looked too peaceful to wake up.” Kazuki’s voice rumbles through your cheek. “Can you take her whilst I get my shoes off?”

“Mm.” You’re passed from one warm chest to another. You should really open your eyes, stop being a burden. You do try, but it’s so hard… “What did they say?”

“She’s vitamin deficient in practically all of them and needs to put some weight on, but that’s probably to be expected. Talked about the memory loss – could be something called post-concussion syndrome? Might be temporary, might be permanent. Doctor seemed to think she’s come out relatively lucky.” Kazuki yawns. “You okay with taking her up to her bed?”

“I’ve got her.” He shifts you gently, getting a better hold. You sigh, burying your head deeper into his chest. He smells nice, comforting.

“You like her, don’t you?”

“Of course I do.” Rei bristles.

“No, Rei. I mean, you like her.”

A pause. “Yes. Is… is that wrong?”

“Of course not, you idiot. It’s sweet.”

“I care for Miri but this feels… different.”

“Not a lot of dating growing up, huh?” Kazuki chuckles.

“None.” Rei grunts. “Not my style of hit.”

“I don’t mean for a mission, I mean for… for feelings.”

“Oh.” Another pause. “None.”

“Well, you’re in luck because I have a great history with the ladies.” Kazuki winks. “I think she likes you too, though, for what it’s worth.” He yawns again. “Go on, get her to bed. You can’t stand there holding her the entire night – that’s my first bit of advice.”

The next thing you know, you’re being laid upon the soft sheets of the bed and you nuzzle your head into the pillow, missing the warmth. A blanket is tucked in over you and you exhale contentedly, somewhere between the world of awake and dreaming. There’s hot breath for a second at your forehead and chapped lips press against it far too briefly.

“Goodnight, Kitty.”

In Pursuit of Wedded Bliss (Masterlist)

A Seventeen Regency!AU Series

It is the season- and London is full of eligible bachelors and bachelorettes, waiting to be swept up in a whirlwind of romance, passion and matrimony as they each fight their own battles for happiness in London's elite society.

POLL AT THE BOTTOM!

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Patience: Choi Seungcheol (complete!)

An elaborate charade- that is what your life has been for these past few years, and it has taken the help of more than one person to balance your delicate lies and secrets. Now entering your final season as an eligible young lady seeking wedded bliss, will you be able to keep up the act in order to achieve your dreams?

Part 1 Part 2

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2. Candle: Yoon Jeonghan (complete!)

You have always received the best of everything life has to offer: be it education, family, fortune or happiness. Mr. Yoon Jeonghan- one of the ton's renowned villains- cannot possibly bring you happiness of any kind, never mind wedded bliss. But can you evade Jeonghan's charms? Or will you find yourself falling victim to this clever rogue?

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

------------------------------------------------------------------------

3. Wings: Kim Mingyu (coming soon!)

Your debut in society was as spectacular as one could be, but nobody had prepared you for what came afterward. When you find yourself overwhelmed during your very first season and unable to keep up with the rat race to secure yourself an eligible husband, a curious mentor appears- in the form of notorious flirt and self-proclaimed rake, Mr. Kim Mingyu.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

4. Manners: Joshua Hong (coming soon!)

Viscount Joshua Hong is by far the most eligible bachelor in London. Rich, handsome, and renowned for his excellent manners and refined tastes. Young woman would kill for the chance to be the Viscount's chosen bride. But it seems tat nobody can quite determine which of the young ladies he prefers, and you are beginning to have your doubts. Is the Viscount really as gentlemanly as the ton seems to think?

------------------------------------------------------------------------

5. Scandal: Jeon Wonwoo (coming soon)

The Viscount's sister with an enormous dowry, beauty and unmistakable talent- you began the London season as the most desired women in any room. You had been taught to avoid rakes and fortune hunters, but Jeon Wonwoo (a man who would rather hide in the library than dance at a ball) was beyond your comprehension. How- and why- was he immune to your charms? You would not rest until you found out.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

6. Closed Doors: Kwon Soonyoung (coming soon!)

Kwon Soonyoung had made peace with his station in life. A younger son of a little-known family, he was not set to inherit a fortune and had nothing to recommend him but his bright personality. Nobody expected Soonyoung to make the match of the season. But when you- a woman with ties to the royal family and riches beyond his imagination, a Duchess in your own right- seek Soonyoung's hand in marriage, his life begins to spiral entirely out of his control.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

A/N: Since this series is getting way more love than I ever imagined, I figured I would let you guys have a say in which member I write next!

Shadows of Desire

Summary: You always thought the only romance you would experiment with in your life was the one between pages under the flames at midnight. That was until you found him, because the feel of his fangs digging into your neck was more than addictive.

Genre: Vampire.

Part 1.

Part 2.

Part 3.

Part 4.

Part 5.

Part 6.

(Please keep in mind that the number of chapters or parts might be modified later on as the story continues).

Sip of Love masterlist

Summary: Despite the fact that your family business was running a magic teahouse with tea that was able to make your deepest and most impossible wish come true, you never thought you would find love on a random Wednesday.

Genre: Fluff, magical world (kind of, since it's the normal world but you and your family have some sort of magic)

Pairing: Choi Seungcheol/Reader.

Part 1.

Part 2.

Part 3.

Part 4.

Part 5.

Epilogue.

Please keep in mind that the number of parts might change as the story continues.

𝘑𝘰𝘴𝘩𝘶𝘢 𝐹𝑖𝑐 𝑅𝑒𝑐𝑠

♡ Fluff || ୨୧ Angst || ★ Smut || ꗃ SMAU || ⌗ Series || ✿ Drabble || ♤ Mature (No smut) || ✹ Humor

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Virgin killer ♡★ -> @wonusite Part 2

Synopsis: You can’t stand the clear line the cute nerd in your calculus class always draws between you two. However, you’re determined to show him that there’s a fine line between love and hate. And if you happen to get him to cross that line, even better.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Anonymously Yours ♡୨୧✹ -> @joonsytip

Synopsis: After an accidental text message turns into a digital friendship, you and Joshua start crushing on each other without realizing you both see each other frequently in real life. Notable Mention: You both hate each other's guts....

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Pretty when you cry ★ -> @cheolhub

summary. joshua just loves how pretty you look when you’re in tears.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Say it back ♡ -> @diamondyjh

Synopsis: A tipsy Joshua is a clingy Joshua.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Vanilla ★♡ -> @milfgyuu

Summary: Joshua has a secret but perhaps it’s not really a secret at all. Maybe you’ve just refused to see it in an effort to keep your feelings at bay.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Wildest dreams ♡✹ -> @viastro

synopsis: it’s your last year of school forever, and you’re about to meet the most horrifying chapter of life: the real world. now worrying about your life’s lack of spontaneity, you decide to get married to your best friend in vegas for 24 hours.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Beautiful day Sunday morning ★♡ -> @sluttywoozi

Summary: Joshua’s tried everything, but he just can’t stop being in love with his best friend

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Steamy ★ -> @duhnova

next door neighbor!joshua - unfortunately in the middle of your shower your hot water breaks so you have to go next door and ask your unnaturally hot neighbor if you can use his

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Domino ♡✹★ -> @universecorp

Summary: After a one night stand on your birthday, you never expected to meet the stranger again. You also never expected him to enter your life permanently.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Under the rose ♡★ -> @just-come-baek

Summary: You’ve known Joshua your entire life, and it has always irked you when he got praised for the same things you were scolded for. You hate these societal double standards thrown upon you almost as much as people who judge you for it. Thankfully, you have Joshua, who just gets you.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Late to the party ★ -> @sluttywoozi Part 2 , Sundress Szn

Summary: You try to convince Joshua to go to Cheol's birthday party. Joshua tries to convince you to have a party for two | husband!joshua, husband joshua is horny and in love with you

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Your gentleman ★ -> @wonwussy

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Leaning on the everlasting arms ♡୨୧★ -> @onlyhuis

synopsis | as kids growing up in the same church, you and joshua were inseperable, until you got to an age where it was considered immoral for girls and boys to be friends. when you find him again just before graduation, he's different than you remember; but so are you.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Best friend's brother ♡୨୧★ -> @chocosvt

synopsis: joshua happens to be your best friend's older brother. he's pretty, and he's got a lot of cool details about him that you pay a concerning amount of attention to, but he’s just a friend (if you could even call it that). still, what does he think of you, anyway? that is—if he thinks of you.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ To you ♡୨୧★ -> @onlymingyus

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Fine line ♡୨୧★ -> @heartkyeom

synopsis: as a joshua fangirl, getting the chance to interview him as a teenager was an absolute dream. 10 years later with a flourishing career as a writer and a strained relationship with him, he wants to do a 10 year reunion interview about his path to the upcoming Olympics. there’s only one problem: you’re staying at his house and trying not to address your old feelings for him.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Untitled ♡୨୧ -> @gyu-effect

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Paint by numbers ♡୨୧ -> @chocosvt

synopsis: somebody new just moved into the upstairs apartment. they’re loud, irritatingly sweet, and unfortunately, very pretty. but you’re not looking for a new relationship, even if it comes in the form of joshua hong. 

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Golden Hour ♡ -> @dkfile

summer ends in less than a month, leaving you with a limited amount of time to build up the courage to profess your undying love for your best friend before he leaves again for college. alternatively the summer of pining, featuring a group of annoyed bystanders.

❙❘❙❙❘❙❚❙❘ ⌕ Cranberry concoctions ♡୨୧★ -> @onlyhuis

synopsis | you came to the infamous diamond glass looking for a good cocktail. instead, you found love in a hot bartender who also makes the best cosmos you’ve ever had.

[ More joshua recs will be updated ]

Want more Seventeen fic recs? -> Click here

The Selfish Dilemma || Jeonghan - Part 2

Pairings: Jeonghan x Fem!Reader

Synopsis: It was love at first sight ever since you laid eyes on Jeonghan. To him, you are the annoying co-worker who keeps asking him out. No one is new to your courting agenda which only pisses off Jeonghan but what happens when you stop, all at once....

Word Count: 8k

Warnings (specific to this part): this part is SFW, pinning, lots of office jargons, profanity, tears, everyone is sad, redemption, Jeonghan turns into a love sick puppy, poor Seokmin again, wholesome co-workers Wonwoo, Soonyoung, Jihoon and Joshua, wholesome bestfriend Myeongho, wholesome Seungcheol makes an entry (lmk if I missed any)

Banner credits to my baby @hoeforhao <3

A/N: Thanks to all for showing immense love to the first part of the story. Though initially it was planned to be a twoshot but there's gonna be an Epilogue to this.

[SVT Masterlist] [SVT Flick - Fic Masterlist]

Please heart, comment and reblog, it would really help to keep me going <3

Teaser | Part 1

It's been a week since you started working from home.

Walking out of Jeonghan's cabin had lead you to knocking on your manager's. Mr. Choi, the old man was so worried on seeing your bloodshot eyes and deemed demeanor that as soon as you requested for a week's work from home, he approved it immediately, no questions asked.

It's boring, you'd admit but it's also helpful when you don't have to see Jeonghan's face everyday and sliding over the reject button doesn't really need any effort whenever he calls. His messages are stacking up in your inbox, unread.

Your heart is still hurting, mind is still clouded with the thoughts of that one man whom you love. However, staying at home, away from that ambience, gave you a lot of time to think.

And for the sake of your own peace, you're justifying him. Truth said, you were never lead on Jeonghan. Just brief eye contacts only when talking work. The guy known for having manner hands obviously had no touchy business with anyone except for the times when your clumsy legs slipped, he was somehow there to hold you, everytime. That's it.

Your mind is slowly taking over with rationality and the progress is good enough for you to pretend that you're unbothered when you go back to office next Monday.

Key word: Pretend. And maybe because you're a master in it, thanks to that, you aren't miserable.

Jeonghan is miserable. Because the moment he realises he's with love with you is the moment you're walking out.

He doesn't see you at office for a whole week. You always reject his calls, never respond back to the enormous amount of text he has been sending.

He looks so grief-stricken and he is. Aloofness is something in his nature that he can't do anything about. Always being used to scare people away with one sharp look, he was flabbergasted at your boldness and determination to win him over, which honestly had pissed him at first.

But as the days passed, the itchiness on hearing your voice faded, the furrow in his brows stopped appearing and his heart vacuumed out in his chest whenever he sensed your presence.

He ignored it, all of it because he was sure office romances, well any of sort romantics wasn't for him, proof his last relationship, which had undoubtedly left him scarred and cautious. He has moved on long back and getting adjusted to loneliness shouldn't be a big deal when it always returns to him.

He has been afraid because as you said no one would take his shit, people would leave him one day and he'd just be a spectator at the sidelines holding himself, only having him as his own to pick up the scattered pieces.

When you had joined first, in official terms you were Yoora's replacement. When you started courting him, Jeonghan's mind squared back, afraid of history repeating itself. But he soon realised he was wrong, you weren't Yoora's replacement, you were you and so much more that. You were filling in the cracks formed on his heart with patience, persistency and love. So to save himself from dipping deeper, to save another heartbreak he rooted to his indifference agenda towards you. He chose to ignore his own feelings, chose not to seek answers until it to came down to this.

Turns out by turning you down he wasn't avoiding the inevitable, his heart did break afterall. He wonders how did you handle so many rejections when his gut is withering just from lack of your attention.

Mondays are always blue, but for you it's bluer. Because you know Jeonghan's gonna not let you have it your way.

Till now it's all good, you haven't seen Jeonghan yet. He has already been cooped up in his cabin when you arrived at your desk, he hasn't yet come out of that room once and it's lunchtime.

Chaein doesn't allow anyone else to sit beside you, that's her seat as she claims, "Gosh, I've missed you so much Y/N. It's so difficult to deal with these dumbos without you."

Joshua and Soonyoung gasp in unison.

Seokmin just smiles, he's happy to have you back. But that smile doesn't reach his eyes and you notice that he's unusually quiet. Taking a mental note you corner him later you resume eating. Amidst the chatting and teasing, your eyes stray away searching for that one person.

"He doesn't come here for lunch since last week.", Seokmin says dryly, eyes on the plate, hand which is holding the fork stabbing that poor broccoli. There's no hiding away, you know that Seokmin can read you like an open book.

It's evening and you're mentally preparing yourself because you've to get your design document of a product to be reviewed by Jeonghan. Taking a deep breath you knock on the cabin door. A faint 'come in' reaches your ears and you're suddenly panicking. However, another deep breathe calms you a bit.

Upon entering, the first thing you notice is obviously Jeonghan but what concerns you is his unkempt apperance. The man who falls under the dapper category looked so lost, so deemed. You wonder how could a week do so many changes to a man. Large bags under his eyes, hairs dishevelled, potential weight loss and the list continues.

Jeonghan had been walking on eggshells, even when not around you. He arrived early to office on purpose, avoided crossing the threshold of his cabin and had his curtain blinds rolled over just to not cause you any inconveniences.

He does this because he's scared. What if you see his face and decide to extend your work from home or press on the transfer application. What if he gets to see you lesser and lesser until to the point he doesn't see you at all.

Yes, he's a overthinker.

But he's often taking a peak at you from the gaps of those blinds. You, sitting at your desk, pivoting your full concentration at whatever is there on the screen has Jeonghan admitting that this is the most gratifying sight for him, recently.

"H-How are you?", he avoids eye contact and asks so quietly that you that almost miss it.

The concern for him within you never receded so before you could comprehend the question slips out from your mouth, "Did you have lunch yet?"

Jeonghan's gaze whips at you in shock. Shocked because inspite of everything you're still looking out for him, he's also relieved because of same.

"I'll grab something later--"

"It's almost evening Jeonghan, you shouldn't be needing anyone to fill you about your health and eating habits.", you say sternly, "Anyways it's upto you. I just came to get the document reviewed."

You take the seat opposite to him and just as you were about to speak, he beats you.

"Will you go out with me?"

You are choking on air, eyes round as saucers, almost jabbing your ears in case you're hearing everything wrong.

Jeonghan thinks his heart could burst in chest any moment, it wasn't the plan to ask you so abruptly, then again when has Jeonghan did the right thing at the right time.

"Yes.", you say nonchalantly, out of anger, out of spite and out of hurt. You're in disbelief of his audacity to mock your feelings again, that he's the same selfish prick you've known.

Jeonghan thinks this time he's hearing you wrong, so he gapes at you.

"I can go out of this cabin with or without you.", you continue, lips curled up in mockery, "For all other places, it's a no."

Jeonghan slumps back a little, what did he expect.

He nods and you resume to brief him on the design model. Once done, you're walking out. As your hands hover over the handle of the door, he calls your name.

"Do you hate me?", you hear him ask.

You don't turn back when you say, "Yes.", and walk out.

Jeonghan wonders if the first one hurts like hell, how will he handles the others and he hasn't even started.

The whole office is murmuring. But what all can be prominently heard are gasps and breath hitches.

The reason, Yoon Jeonghan. The man who's always wearing staple colours and long coats is donning a scarlet satin shirt paired with a high waist tailored pant today.

A chic office attire to suffice it subtly. And people are finding it impossible to take eyes off him.

"Woah, what's the occasion?", Jihoon asks Soonyoung, the two standing by the entrance on hearing the mild commotion.

Soonyoung scoffs, "Isn't it pretty obvious? Y/N's the occasion.", he is utterly pissed because all he could think about is his dear friend Seokmin and the zero progress made on his end.

You have just settled on your chair, almost exhausted even before the day started because of the scorching heat draining your the energy.

Taking your phone out, you are putting your work playlist on when you sense something vibrant from the periphery of your vision.

Head up, your eyes go wide, mouth agape on seeing Jeonghan walking through the door. Your favourite colour on him makes no sense at all when you could think that it has been all wrong, no one had ever did the minimum justice to that colour.

Jeonghan's gaze perks up at you, lips curled up in a triumphant smile. He watches as you legit choke on air, eyes locked on him. He saunters to your desk and says, "I've never worn something like this to office before, does it look okay?"

Your mind squares to zero as it produces absolutely nothing. Blinking owlishly at him, you somehow manage to give him a nod. When Jeonghan enters his cabin you slump on the chair, pinching the bridge of your nose because you're sure that you're gonna get a nosebleed today.

And then the torment starts. You are getting called by Jeonghan frequently and everytime he demands your attention you're finding it difficult to maintain an eye contact with him.

"So which model are we going to approach, Y/N?", Jeonghan knowingly puts you to test.

"We are going with A.", you say uncertainly as you look up at him.

Jeonghan bites back the smile, "I thought we decided to go with B?"

Your eyes widen and you're mumbling an apology, "Sorry, yes. I'll setup a meet with my team and come up with possible queries pertaining to it."

Jeonghan nods and you take it as a que to leave.

"Will you go out with me?", your hear him ask.

"No.", you're amazed how it naturally slips out of your mouth and wonder if someday you'd actually mean it for real, not out of hurt or spite.

"Do you hate me?"

You sigh and look away before muttering a 'yes'.

You are aware very well that Jeonghan's attire for the day is of your likes. While you wonder how he knows about your favourite colour, Jeonghan reminiscence why whenever he sees anything in the shades of red, you cross his mind.

"Oh my god! Taylor is re-recording my favourite album of hers.", you squeal out scrolling through your tumblr feeds and look at Jeonghan, "Red will always be superior because those tracks build me in a way and it's my favourite colour as well."

You fill in Jeonghan at the lunch knowing he won't lend an ear to your words. But you've developed this habit and you like to do it anyways.

Jeonghan misses your monologues so he avoids going to canteen for lunch because it hits him how lonely he'll always be and the image of the empty seat in front confirms it. He never responded, never heard but he always listened.

Also, that wasn't the only evidence, the colour of your car, to the frame of the family photo on your desk to your earpods, to the souvenirs you've bought or showed him, to the nail paints you'd put on, they're all something in the shades of red.

It did leave Jeonghan amused as well when he realized he remembers all of this. Like his heart, his brain too by hearts anything and everything related to you and he doesn't need to be genius anymore to know the reason.

He watches you leave but a small smile sets on his lips because today he realised he still has that effect on you so he wishes he can make the thwarting from your end to cease soon.

You wanna make him wear his heart on sleeves and he's willing do it just for you.

Seokmin is done for the day and he plans to drop by the grocery store since he's running out of stock. Just as he enters the parking lot, he finds you leant against his car door.

You wave hands at him and he gives you a small smile.

"I thought you left.", he comments casually, hands searching inside the bag for the car keys.

"I was waiting for you, we need to talk.", you sound so serious that Seokmin halts his actions and looks at you alarmingly.

And his eyes urges you to speak further.

"Not here definitely.", your eyes scan around as you speak, "Do you have other plans tonight?"

Seokmin nods, "I have a friend to meet.", he lies and then proceeds to tell his actual plan, "also have to do some grocery shopping."

You nod dejected, "Okay, then. Let me know when you're ready to talk, I feel there's a shift in our dynamics and I'm afraid that I might have done something wrong unintentionally."

You don't wait for this response as you walk out of the lane leaving Seokmin frozen. He didn't think you'd have time from thinking over Jeonghan to focus on something that's related to him. He never thought you'd notice.

Now, he feels sorry when he sees your slouched demeanor, how did he end up adding more to your plate when you're already brimming.

So he decides to do both of you a favour.

Next day at lunch, you are eating quietly with Chaein gushing in about the hot and also smart guy she went on a date with when someone unpleasant suddenly crosses your mind.

"Where's Seonji? I haven't seen her since I started working from office again."

Joshua's bambi eyes widened more when he realises he had missed to spill this tea to you, "About that...", he takes the weightage when your undivided attention pivots on him, "Remember that day at the cafeteria when she intended to claim that she would be dating Jeonghan? So after you left, Jeonghan warned her about reporting to HR and when she failed some submissions by EOD, he immediately reported to her manager and had her removed from the team."

"Not gonna lie, he's damn scary. Remember how he berated me that day, what a meanie, I could still cry thinking about it.", Chaein claims and shrugs as she throws you a knowing look, "I've heard that he has had over three women reported to the HR department because they over stepped the boundaries they should never as a colleague."

"Since he's behaving out of character for the past days, I realised that apart from the indifference, I've never seen him being a scrooge to you actually.", Joshua almost talks over Chaein, "Rather he always seems to casual, if I might add, comfortable whenever around you. I don't know how it was at the beginning, this is what it has been since I've joined."

"That's what. Jeonghan is scary to everyone. And since he started pulling whatever shit nowadays, he is only doing it for Y/N and he has done it for no one else ever.", Chaein claims.

You gape at the two faces mutely before asking, "Is Jeonghan paying you both for saying this?"

Chaein rolls her eyes. Joshua snorts.

You turned to your last resort, the man whose sole focus is whatever on his plate, calmly eating which makes you doubt if he is even aware of any the conversation that's taking place around him.

"Jihoon", you try to gain his attention and when the said man looks at you with the most neutral expression, you know it's useless but still you tell him anyways, "These two", you point at Joshua and Chaein, "are potentially fraternising with my enemy. But I can trust you right?"

"We're not Y/N.", Chaein chimes in, "and after witnessing everything, we'd never support Jeonghan. It's just... we spoke out our minds."

Jihoon stares at Chaein, at Joshua and then at you, mutely, making the three of you anxious.

"Honestly I'm not at all amused at Jeonghan.", he says and before anyone of you could intercept he continues, "Because you were the one I was amused at, it was beyond my comprehension how persistent you were when he didn't even bat an eyelash at you. If you could show persistence, I believe Jeonghan could also show.... what I'm guessing is redemption. We all have different mechanism. We all work differently."

You gulp nervously at his words but an assuring pat from Jihoon washes the weariness away.

"But at the end of the day, it's you and your validations. If you think he's gimmicking slap him accross. If you think he's sincere, give him a chance at explaining. If you think he had made you suffer enough, either don't waste another ink of thought on him or return all those sufferings to him before allowing him to do anything else.", he wiping the corners of his lips with the tissue and getting up, "That's what. At the end, it should be you. How you treat Jeonghan should come from within you, not me, not anyone else, no third party opinion should matter unless you want to adhere onto some."

And when Jihoon walks out leaving you speechless, Chaein squeals, "And what if I develop a crush on Jihoon because of the damn clear headed man he is?"

"Then you'll have me as your competition.", Joshua quips back instantly and though you don't react, you relate to both of them. His words ring in your head and suddenly you're feeling dizzy.

When you return to your desk, as always a red rose awaits you in the vase and as always you never have the heart to throw it away, so it stays because you know Jeonghan's gonna replace it the next day.

He is always waiting for you at the entrance nowadays and even all you do is wryly greet him out of courtesy he follows you like a puppy.

"Good morning Y/N. Did you sleep well yesterday? There's going to be fest, do you wanna go, I can try to get the tickets even though there's a huge demand...."

While the security gives you both a meaningful look, now that the roles have reversed. He glares at them and proceeds with his attempts of small talks even without getting a response as if he's talking to himself until you halt at your desk and he halts on his words followed by a 'have a nice day' before entering his cabin.

It's intriguing how a man could self sabotage his dear vehicle often because most of the days he says his car is given for servicing or the tyres are punctured, flat out so he could ride home with you, albeit to spend some extra time with you in solace.

"Why is there no traffic today?", Jeonghan says dejected and doesn't realise he has let out his thoughts a little too loud.

"What?", you turn to side, just to glare at him when you see the man sitting beside you practically freeze.

"I-I mean, there's a lot of traffic generally but it's a lot less today... It's a g-good thing..."

"Do you want me as your designated driver now because at this rate I'm driving you home almost everyday.", the words come out of your mouth harsher than intended, "You don't have anyone else to put you through right?"

Jeonghan has his eyes wide in horror and he blurts out a no, "Please that's not my intention. I-I'm sorry for making you feel this way. I-I'll stop. You can pull over. I'll get off and take a taxi from here."

You don't do so and also feel bad when he goes mute throughout the rest of the ride.

You find it funny how Jeonghan is never subtle about his business with you. People who see you two would believe that he's courting you and if you didn't know him better you'd think that he's in love with you.

But that's what, you do know him so you know his motive could be anything but love.

Jeonghan's mind is filled with all the things he had been trying to get your attention and how he failed in all of them.

He is frustrated throughout as the days pass by and that seeps into him deeper today so much that he's sobbing when he punches the passcode of his house.

He's worried about the sincerity which either he's not able to express or you're not being able to see, rightfully. He has thought of confessing his feelings several times but he knows by doing that now, he'd gonna loose you faster, you're never gonna believe him because you don't trust him anymore.

He walks in, sets his bag and gets the scare of his life when the lights turn on and he hears someone.

"I thought I'd never get to see you. Do you always work this late? I got bored waiting, so made myself something barely edible because you're fridge needs restock--"

When their gaze meet, Jeonghan's teary eyes cuts off the one speaking.

"Cheol...", Jeonghan sounds so defeated as he stays rooted to the place, gaze dropped, calling out his best friend's name. Seungcheol nearly freezes, but next he's running to Jeonghan, pulling him into a hug.

"Hey, it's okay.", Seungcheol gently caresses his back, keeping his own shock at bay because it's rare to see his friend crying. In the span of seventeen years of their friendship, he has seen Jeonghan cry only once and now it's the second time he's witnessing it.

After he calms down, Seungcheol asks, "Do you wanna talk about it?". Jeonghan just nods but doesn't say anything so Seungcheol waits.

"I'm in love, Cheol...", and this is how Jeonghan starts and vents out anything and everything he thinks he need to let his best friend know.

All Seungcheol does is give him a smile and that sets Jeonghan really off.

"Seriously? You're smiling?"

Phone calls or facetimings aren't the things that work with Jeonghan, particularly. So it's always Seungcheol who's calling him to get updates from him, very well knowing that he is only termed 'close' friend Jeonghan has and even though he never admits but Jeonghan always looks forward to get his calls.

"Thought you were dead. Didn't take you the kind to control your urge of disturbing my peace for a whole month."

Seungcheol could hear the gruffness from the other side and he answers with a laugh, "It wouldn't actually kill you to admit that you were so worried that you dropped me a text and you actually missed me."

"Whatever floats your boat."

Seungcheol knows about you, ofcourse through Jeonghan's words as an annoying colleague who kept asking him out. And so does Seungcheol know that you maybe not be actually annoying, that you must be someone special to Jeonghan for him to mention you in almost every call he had with his keeper, his best friend.

"Are you sure, you hate this Y/N? Because you never fail to mention her... It's just you don't bring up anyone this often."

"Uh puh-lease, I'm allowed to rant about something that irks me and you've no choice but to listen."

Often termed as tsundere and ignored by people partly because of the aloof aura he emitted, it was the same factor for which Seungcheol found Jeonghan intriguing and as adament he was on being friends with him, he actually achieved it.

So whenever he heard about you, he always got reminded of himself.

"You should have called me, Han--"

"But you were out of country for the conference, I didn't wanna bother you--"

"Nonsense.", Seungcheol scoffs, "So it took her to walk out on you, for you to realise that you're in love with her. That's so typical of you."

Jeonghan sighs and his lips sets out in a pout as he rants further, "I'm such an idiot. That day she was having a headache so I made her a cup of black coffee but...", his eyes are set on his fingers those are drawing random pattern on the fabric of the pants he's wearing, "I could see that she was looking forward to having it. And after she took the first sip, her face literally fell."

Jeonghan gets teary again on reminiscing the memory again,"I had put two spoons of sugar because I thought it turned a lot bitter but that's how she'd would have liked it.", then he looks at Seungcheol, "I know how dampening a wrong coffee could get you but she didn't scold me whereas if it would have been me, I'd given shit to anyone who would have gotten my coffee wrong. She always knew my preferences and likes but me...", he exhales sharply, "I know nothing compared to that. I can't even get her coffee right. I really don't deserve her."

Seungcheol's heart pains seeing his best friend in this plight. He hopes you're just going through a phase because he knows apart from him, you're the only one who actually didn't cower away from Jeonghan because of his cold exterior.

"Did you confess to her?", Seungcheol asks.

Jeonghan shakes his head, "I want to but... She won't believe me and I-I think she hates me enough, I don't wanna add to it."

"Are you serious right now?", Seungcheol chuckles in disbelief, "Imagine yourself being in her shoes once. You confess to someone everyday, only to get rejected every single time and suddenly when you decide to stop pursuing him, he's doing questionable things for you which is all new to you and what would it feel like--", he walks up to where Jeonghan is seated and crouches, "It would be confusing, it would hurt you because all you could think about is why he would be doing all this, what can his motive be."

Jeonghan's eyes widen as the realisation gnaws on him. He stiffens for some moments. His gaze drops as he speaks, "And she'd never think that it all might be out of longing and love because all I've given her is 'I hate yous' but never a single 'I love you'."

"So she needs to know that, Han. You need to confess, and we both know believing is hard on her part. So that's on you, to pursue her, to make her believe that your feelings are sincere because for the past years she has been doing it everyday, without a fail.", Seungcheol pats on his arms, "Bare yourself out infront of her, keep trying but stop when you think it's time."

Jeonghan's eyes are twinkling with new found hope now, all thanks to his best friend.

"How long are you planning to stay here?", Jeonghan asks, "You're out by tomorrow right?"

Seungcheol tsks, "This is what I get for being the best friend. How disappointing."

"I'm hungry, make me something.", Jeonghan is back to his unbothered self as if a switch is flipped, "And also, don't you dare to sneak into my bed later, I'll kick you out."

Seungcheol feigns hurt and gives him the biggest puppy eyes, "You know I need to hug someone when I sleep--"

"I have given you extra pillows for some reason--"

"But they're not as cuddly as you, Han.--"

"Get yourself a partner, gosh. And spare me."

"About that, I went on a date the day before yesterday and--"

"I'm not interested Cheol. I'm hungry. Give me food."

"It's your birthday next week and you won't be getting any gift from me for being shitty."

The banter ends at midnight with Seungcheol sneaking into the bed when Jeonghan is awake but good news, he doesn't gets kicked out of the bed.

Seokmin is finally ready to have a heart to heart time with you.

When he proactively texted you this instance, you immediately invited him to your house to talk over dinner in hopes to mend any mistakes you made, in hopes to reunite with your same old dearest Seokmin.

But you notice him being oddly quiet today as he has been for the past few days. The Seokmin who always talks animatedly is not uttering a word unless it's a reply to a question coming from you.

You hand him the ice cream bowl while he's seated on your couch and you take the seat on the opposite end.

"So are we going to address the elephant in the room?", your gaze is fixed on your bowl when you speak.

Seokmin's head whips in your direction and he thinks it's now or never. He had headed out to your place with only one motive, that is to get the weight off his chest, that is to confess.

"Did I do something to hurt you?", you ask in a small voice, "I know I can be really thick headed and I'm really sorry if I have hurt you, just know whatever it was, it was unintentional."

Seokmin's heart constricts looking at your sincere eyes, hearing you spill apologies without being at fault, knowing that you truly treasure him.

He closes his eyes and takes a deep breathe before opening them only to meet your uncertain gaze.

"I have something to say to you", when he says this, he could feel his heart now thumping vigorously within his chest, beads of sweat forming on his forehead even in the air conditioned room.

You get up and shift to sit beside him. Seokmin thinks the whisk of your scent is overwhelming and the proximity is making his stomach churn.

"Seokmin--"

"I love you, Y/N. I've loved you for long now."

You freeze. Seokmin halts. The hands of the clock moves but time doesn't pass by.

"I'm sorry...", that's the first thing you blurt out and Seokmin smiles.

"It's not you fault Y/N. You've been so in love with Jeonghan that everyone around you faded into the background because all you could focus on was him.", Seokmin bites his tongues to stop those tears pooling in his eyes from falling, "Maybe because you love so openly and I'm exactly the opposite, you could never relate to me."

"That's not it, Seokmin.", your hands itch to hold his but you don't know if you could do that anymore because you think you've hurt him enough, "You're a good guy Min, too good to be true. But how could I have known that whenever you comforted me, you also needed to be comforted. You didn't have to be so cruel on yourself, when I couldn't pick myself up, you shouldn't have been the one to always pick me up, you should have let others do that."

Seokmin lets out a sob and he's choking out the words, "Y-You know it's impossible when you're in love. You should be knowing this when you're... you're going through this as well. And I'm sorry for bringing this up at a time like this but trust me--"

His words halt again when you embrace him tight and place his head on your shoulders, one hand stroking his hair, another caressing his back, "You brought this up because it was constricting your breathes. You brought this up when you were at the edge, when you couldn't hold it in anymore. Thanks for putting yourself before me, this one time. You shouldn't be apologizing when you did nothing wrong."

Your voice cracks when you say, "I can't reciprocate your feelings Min because I'm trying to get over someone I love. I don't want to give you false hope. You don't deserve to be someone's replacement or rebound. All you deserve is the best."

Seokmin's sobs doesn't tend to cease and he is fisting the fabric of your shirt, "Why did you have to be so understanding? Why didn't you just shout at me or kick me out of your house? How do I move on Y/N? How do I get rid of this habit of loving you?"

This time you're choking a sob, "If I knew the answers to the question, trust me my life would have been a lot easier. I'm a sufferer too, Min."

You pull away and wipe his tears with gentle hands and he does the same to you. Now that he is looking at you, you wonder how you missed the love he's radiating for you all this time. You wonder what if it was Seokmin instead of Jeonghan whom you loved.

But all those what's and if's wouldn't mean anything now. Your heart is breaking because out of all things, you never thought you would be the one to massively hurt Seokmin.

Seokmin knew that this would be the outcome. But what pierces his heart into pieces is the way you're blaming yourself, even though it's no one's fault.

Feelings can't be controlled. The heart wants what it wants.

A tap on his arm pivots his attention back to the present. His eyes dart on you as he waits for you.

"Listen to me carefully, this is for you. What do you want me to do for you now?"

Seokmin shots you a confusing look.

"I mean, I'd understand if you don't want to see me for the time being, I'll try not to show up in front of you during the the office hours. If you wanna cut contact, do it, go ahead and block me. Do whatever you feel like doing but promise me you'd come back, I'm sorry if I'm being selfish here, I treasure you too much to loose you."

Seokmin looks dead in your eyes that actually scares you for a moment.

"Don't be ridiculous.", He scolds you, "And don't even thinking of pulling any of those stunts you just mentioned. I'll be okay. We'll be okay."

You heave in relief and Seokmin smiles.

Though you are reluctant to let Seokmin drive back home given the condition, he persists he'll be fine. So you feed him some more ice cream, engage him in small talks and hug him one more time before he's out of the threshold of your house.

When Seokmin walks to where his car is parked he's shocked to see Wonwoo and Soonyoung waiting for him.

"What are you both doing here?", he asks.

"Y/N had texted us.", Wonwoo says as he fished out his car keys, "I'll drive you home."

"And I'll drive your car to your home.", Soonyoung holds his hand flat asking for the car keys, "Then Wonwoo will drop me off, in case you're still curious."

Seokmin is stunned but nonetheless hands him the keys. He now gets why were you so stubborn on feeding him icecream and even engaging in small random talks, it was all to buy some time.

"We can stay if you want us to.", Wonwoo offers and Soonyoung nods. And Seokmin feels his heart is swelling too tight within his chest.

He looks at both of them, thinks of you and smiles in gratitude.

Jeonghan knocks on your desk as soon as he passes by meaning he wants you in and enters his cabin.

You are already emotionally and mentally drained for not getting proper sleep since Seokmin's confession episode happened. Today is particularly exhausting for some reason and you even considered taking the day off but that important client meeting had your feet dragged to the office premise.

"Y/N, I need to tell you something.", Jeonghan says when you enter and gestures you to take a seat.

"Look, I'm really exhausted. If it's something related to work then go ahead otherwise let's keep it shelved for now.", you say sharply.

Jeonghan doesn't let your words sting much and continues, "Are you okay? If you want some rest, you can use my restroom."

You chuckle, "It's really tempting when I have this killing headache but no, I don't want people to get the wrong idea. They're already having ridiculous speculations. Thanks for offering though."

"What speculations?", Jeonghan asks genuinely confused.

"You're really gonna make me say it?", you roll eyes and when you're met by his curious gaze you sigh.

"They think you're courting me. Some are even saying that you're in love with me.", you laugh dryly.

"And what if it's true?", Jeonghan says pacing away and locking the door. He comes back and places both his hands on the armrests, hovering over you.

Your eyes blow wide at the proximity and mind almost short circuits at his question.

"C-Can you shift back a bit?", you are literally stumbling upon your words, "I-It's suffocating."

However, Jeonghan has no intention of doing so, rather he inches closer and says, "You didn't answer me, what if those speculations are true?"

This time you scoff, "You can fool all those people out there but you can't fool me. Because I know how much you hate me so... coming to that, I was meaning to ask you, about your motive. Why are you pulling all those acts?"

Jeonghan knows that he'd face this question so he answers honestly, "There's only one motive Y/N. I know you'd find it hard to believe but listen carefully to what I'm gonna say now."

A moment passes by and you wait but with no eagerness. He knows that office is not a right place to confess when you both are clogged into the working hours. He knows you deserve a lot more than this but he's afraid that he doesn't start now, it'll be late.

So he does it anyways, "I love you, Y/N. And that's the only motive. It's love."

He continues, "I'd admit that I found you annoying when you started asking me out but that annoyance gradually faded. I got used to your affection and caring. I liked the essence of you. Office wasn't boring, I wasn't lonely anymore because I had you. I had realised long before that it wasn't hate as what I used to say, you are that flower that blossomed through the cracks of heart by nurturing it with love and care. And before I could actually realize my true feelings, I started reciprocating yours. I am in love with you."

You are absolutely frozen and next, Jeonghan is panicking when he sees the tears pooling at the corner of your eyes.

"You!", you are fuming in rage as you hit his chest, "Such a jerk!", another hit, "Still making fun of my feelings", another one, "using it against me", and he is encasing your hands within his when you say, "Why are you so cruel? Why don't you admit that you don't actually love me but you love the feeling of having someone pinning on you."

"W-What?", Jeonghan feels insulted, his hands are leaving yours and he's pulling back, now standing strout in front of you, "No. No Y/N, you can't just deduct conclusions for yourself, you can't make assumptions for me. You can't validate how I feel! That's so wrong!"

His eyes peer down at you, "How long have you known me Y/N? How well do you know me?"

His question catches you off guard.

Your tear soaked lashes blink at him owlishly. Just as you open your mouth, he interrupts you, "Think about all the time you've spent with me.  Since the day we met to till date. If you know me well you'll get the answer yourself."

Jeonghan suddenly crouches infront of you. Next, he's wiping your tears with his thumbs and stroking your hair with hesitancy at first and when you don't retort he continues doing so while looking at you with those soft almond eyes.

"Please don't cry, don't waste your tears on me cause I'm not worth of those.", he pleads eyes turning grim, "Seeing you cry, breaks my heart."

And that's what you've known about him. Though he could always pull a poker face effortlessly, his eyes give away the emotions.

Like now, those orbs are radiating warmness and endearment.

"If you're feeling unwell, please take the day off. I'll handle the client meeting.", he requests but you're already spilling out protests.

"No. I know how strenuous and lengthy these meetings can be and like last time I can't let you take that--."

"I love you."

Your eyes go wide again and Jeonghan lets out a chuckle.

"Get used to it because like you..", he drawls the words, "I can be very persistent.", and smiles while stroking your hair, "I'll keep trying until you see how sincere my feelings are for you."

And you don't like how loud your heart is thumping at his words.

Currently you're at home, earlier than the time estimated because luckily, the client meeting got cancelled.

It's also a relief that your headache has subsided because you need time. Time to think, time to comprehend everything and time to collect your thoughts.

Jeonghan is a man of few words, it's his actions those are always loud. He knows that a line should never be crossed. He knows when and where to draw a boundary.

And you know what he's doing is completely his personal business because he doesn't care what others think, doesn't entertain his space being invaded by others. You know because that's how Jeonghan is, added to it some of the instances that you had witnessed.

Your mind reels back to when Chaein decided to be a little bold. It was during lunch oneday when Jeonghan decided to visit the canteen which he rarely did nowadays. Not wanting to interrupt your lunch and relax session with your group, even though a seat beside you was empty, he occupied the table adjacent to yours and kept eating quietly, throwing glances at you every now and then.

"That's enough, we should know what's his deal is.", Chaein suddenly claims with newfound confidence, "I'm gonna ask him what he's actually trying to pull."

You and Soonyoung gape at her shocked.

"That's Jeonghan, Chae. Do you not have any fear for your dear life?", Joshua quips dramatically but with concern.

Chaein doesn't bother to lend ear to anyone's comments or your protests.

"Hey Jeonghan", she calls him out and when the said man looks at her she continues, "What are you trying to do these days? Do you have feelings for Y/N or what?"

The condescending look that Jeonghan gave her, spiked shivers within everyone who saw it, including you.

"Seo Chaein", you could see him seething, "I don't understand how this concerns you. Are you Y/N's newly appointed spokesperson, if so then are you getting paid well?", his lips curl in a smirk, "Or is this a habit of yours, being unnecessarily nosy in others business."

He doesn't wait for any retorts, he just leaves. And the rest of you are left consoling the teary Chaein.

You are shrugging off the not so pleasant memory when you receive a text from Jeonghan.

Not a new occurance, he is very punctual in sending you texts, absolute random texts.

And today, he has sent you snap. Your eyes go wide like saucers when you download the image, it's a screenshot of Taylor's speak now re-recording announcement of her recent Instagram post.

Before you could actually comprehend, your fingers are texting back a 'what!! are you serious rn?'

And then you're banging your head on the pillow.

Jeonghan thinks he's hallucinating when his phone dinges a notification of your name. He types back a quick 'yes' and an 'i love you' in a response and now he's giggling like a teenager in love, rolling on the bed, kicking blankets and throwing fists in air.

Seungcheol who had stopped by his door to ask him something, eyes him in horror, thinking at first that his dear friend is possessed but a moment later he guesses the reason correctly. Also he's quick to record the moment for personal reference.

"Did Y/N finally respond back?", Seungcheol ask and lets out a laugh when Jeonghan practically freezes.

He's poised and all stoic in a no time as he sits up in his bed and gives a nod before asking, "What do you want?"

Seungcheol doesn't bother to ask anything, he just sends the video to Jeonghan and sprints back to the guest room.

The colours of his face drain when he watches the video and next, he is banging on the door yelling, "Choi Seungcheol, you're dead if you don't delete that video right now!", he bangs harder, "Yah! Seungcheol open this goddamn door!"

Inside the room, Seungcheol is snickering while putting on the headphones, that video obviously stays.

"That haircut suits you.", Chaein says as she takes the seat beside him.

Seokmin smiles, "Oh, thank you. I wasn't sure how it would turn out."

"Come on, you're damn gorgeous. Anything would suit you.", she speaks out nonchalantly as a matter of fact causing the man being spoke out turn into a brighter shade of red.

"How have you been?", she asks and Seokmin understands the insinuation.

"Well, it's not as bad as I thought it would be. To be honest I feel empty because I've been holding it in me so long and now that I've let it all out, it's not as painful, just the emptiness settling it. I'd gradually move on. Y/N is helping me a lot, sounds funny right but she is. And so is Soonyoung and Wonwoo."

Chaein pats on his back, giving a proud smile, "You're doing great and remember you have me as well, Min. Please reach out to me anytime you feel like."

"Thanks Chae, much appreciated."

"I was planning to ask everyone for dinner after work.", she says, "You were always the one to initiate those but nowadays we don't go out much as a group and I really miss our eat-outs."

Seokmin feels bad and realizes that things need to get back to normal because that's how he and everyone stays happy.

"We're going out to our usual restaurant tonight.", he announces and is quickly texting the same words in the group chat, "I'll pull in everyone including, Wonwoo. Who doesn't come without a valid reason, gets kicked out of the group."

Chaein lets out a hearty laugh.

Myeongho glares at the man seated in front of him, in his house. The man in front almost cowers away because of the apparent daggers your best friend is shooting at him with his eyes.

"We can't accept this.", Myeongho says eyeing hamper that Jeonghan has bought with him, "Why are you here?", he interrogates, tone too loud which prompts his wife Miso to put a 'tone it down' hand on his shoulder.

Jeonghan thinks whatever he's doing today is absolutely abrupt because first, shows up at Myeongho's house unannounced. Second, if you haven't told him yet then he's gonna reveal his feelings for you to him. Third, well he'll get to that.

When Myeongho says he already had a call with you and he knows, Jeonghan thinks it's time to come clean about his intentions.

So he does, he explains everything, every thought process he went through over the course of time he has known you. How his feelings changed over time, how his perception graded as the time went by. And finally, how he went from hating to sickeningly loving you.

He is so detailed even when verbally exhibiting the timelines of all the realisations those had hit him, that it leaves Myeongho and Miso are stunned.

"Jeonghan", Miso manages to speak, "Why?", she pauses before continuing, "What are you here? What's the meaning of you explaining all this to us?"

Jeonghan smiles, the one that could sooth a heart, "Myeongho has been her best friend since childhood. And you, Miso, I remember her telling once that she doesn't have to worry about Myeongho anymore because he has you. She trust you both with each other and more than that she considers you as her family. She's so excited for the little one, she's used to mention it almost everyday. I wonder who's she sharing her day to day chimes with."

The tears those pricks at the corners of her eyes, Miso blames them on the pregnancy hormones.

"And her family deserves to know that the guy who's courting her inhibits no malicious intentions towards her. I really love her.", Jeonghan sounds sullen when he speaks further, "I know I don't deserve her after all the things I've put her through, but I wish to make up to her no matter how long it takes only if she's willing to give me a chance."

Jeonghan doesn't like how vulnerable love has made him because nowadays, he can't speak of you without getting teary, like now.

Myeongho heaves a sigh. He observes Jeonghan carefully and is even shocked when he notices him trying to wipe his tears discreetly.

"When she used to say that you are a good man, that only your exterior is tough, I used to disregard her saying she's saying this just to defend you, just because she's in love with you.", Myeongho gives a small smile, "But now I could see that she really saw you for who you are. It's upto her, whether she'll accept you or not, but better make up for all the hurt you caused her."

"We're rooting for you.", Miso adds lightly.

Jeonghan's chest swells at their words and just as he's about to leave, Myeongho stops and hugs him. That's when he thinks he has got all the support he needs.

"What's going on here?"

Everyone freezes when they hear your voice.

"What are you doing here Jeonghan?", you walk upto where they're stood.

"He just came to say hi.", Myeongho blurts out hurriedly.

You take a glance at the three faces swiftly, "Okay. Have fun, sorry to interrupt."

Then you're walking out. Myeongho and Miso gives Jeonghan a pleading look and Jeonghan nods before chasing you.

A hand wraps around your wrist and suddenly you're pulled back to his chest. Jeonghan takes the chance to snake his arms around you.

"What are you doing? Unhand me now.", you say, trying to wriggle out of his embrace, which only makes him engulf you in tighter.

"I don't want to.", he says, "Not until you listen to  what I've to say."

Your gaze sweep across and you hiss, "People are watching Jeonghan."

"You know that I never cared about what others think right?", he dips down low so that you could feel his breathes fanning over.

"If you're trying to kiss me then don't.", you whisper.

"I'm not.", he grins mischievously, "It's not that I get to admire you so closely often."

"Who knew you could be this cheeky?", you roll eyes at him, "So won't you tell me what you were doing at my best friends house?"

"I'll tell you that later. And please don't get mad at them, they didn't even know that I was gonna drop by today."

You finally manage to get out of his grip, "Okay fine."

Jeonghan pouts but being good at reflex he gets hold of your hands and says "Since tomorrow is my birthday, can I request something?"

Ofcourse you remember, it's his birthday tomorrow. For the past years you prepared his gifts over a considerable span of time because they had to be special and you curated them with love.

You were the first one to wish him, making sure to call him when the clock stroke 12 at night. Though you never made him cut cakes incase he'd feel uncomfortable, you made him cakes every year and along with other gifts you had them delivered at his address. In return, you'd always recieve a thank you text and that was enough for you.

"Y/N?"

Jeonghan's voice breaks your reverie.

You eye in him with uncertainty and Jeonghan assures you catching on it, "Don't worry, I won't be asking you to do something arduous."

"I'll hear out your request only if you fulfill mine."

Jeonghan is not sure why he's heart is twisting uncomfortably in his chest when he hasn't even heard you out yet. He says, "As long as it's within my vicinity, I try to fulfill it."

"Oh trust me it is.", you say calmly.

"What is it, Y/N?"

You give him a cold smile when you say, "Don't interfere with my transfer request. Let Mr. Choi process it."

→ Do not copy, re-post, translate, or share any of my works on other platforms! All stories are copyrighted, joonsytip. ©️