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We were?

Mingyu x Reader

Characters; Y/n, Mingyu, Seungkwan, Seokmin and Vernon. Seungcheol, Wonwoo, Minghao, Dino, Hoshi. (brief)

Genre; Fluff (slight confusion)

Warnings; None. (possibly, Mingyu's arms)

Summary; Seungkwan asking you if you've been to 1st base with Mingyu makes you question his behaviour over the past few weeks, while trying to keep your own feelings at bay.

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"Have you guys kissed yet?" Seungkwan asks from beside you as soon as Mingyu leaves for the restroom.

"What... " You ask, slightly wide eyed, thinking the giggly man in front of you is joking.

"He means... you guys have been on like 3 dates, tell us the deets!" Pipes an excited Seokmin from behind you, leaning on the backrest of the sofa.

"Excuse me, what?" Your tone alerts the two boys pestering you, along with Vernon who was perched on a beanbag unbothered until now.

"Didn't Mingyu ask you out?" Vernon questions trying to recall a memory from the past few weeks.

"Wait, dates??" You ask quite confused but also a tiny bit hopeful.

The guys immediately recoil, did they say too much? Was what they heard from their hyungs wrong? Did they ruin Mingyu's chance?

"Forget we said anything." Seungkwan says hastily, the others agreeing, going back to their places.

"No-come back here! Seungkwan!" You hiss, completely dazed and now sort of irritated the guys would drop something like this on you and not even explain.

"Seokmin.." Deep breath in "...if you value your life, you will speak, right at this moment." You glare at the man, speaking in a low tone refraining from raising your voice.

"He hasn't told us anything but we did hear Coups hyung and Mingyu talking about 'a date with y/n' from when Seungkwan was eavesdroppi-"

"I WAS NOT DOING THAT" Seungkwan scoffs, Seokmin immediately disagreeing, completely forgetting that they dumped life altering information.

"Not what? Knowing you, you probably were." Mingyu snickers walking in, sitting down beside you throwing a trophy smile your way before getting comfortable, his arm draped on the sofa behind you.

The atmosphere now rather awkward with Seungkwan glancing at you from time to time, Seokmin being nervous, Vernon was... the same and you sit there trying to recall these dates.

Have you guys really been put on a date??

When did he ask you out??

He's never said the word date in however long you can recall.

• When you and Mingyu went out shopping to spice up your living room and he took you out to lunch after.

• When you went to watch that football match and it was just the two of you, buying both of you ice cream as he walked you home.

• When the other day he suggested dinner at a new restaurant that opened down the street, after which a long drive followed.

In conclusion you'd been dumb and oblivious. Also considering the fact that you never let yourself think about him like that, you tried to be a good friend who does not catch feelings, which always felt fvcking impossible.

However he never held your hand, no hugs. Why didn't he initiate the kissing?

Soon Seungkwan being unable take it anymore and announces he's gonna leave due to early morning practice, coercing Vernon and Seokmin to leave with him. They follow tentatively, saying they're goodbyes and Seokmin mouthing a 'sorry' at you.

You and Mingyu settle back on the sofa, he laughs at the movie playing in front of him, you're too in your head to notice but he sees you thinking.

"Y/n, what do you wanna have for-"

"Are we dating?" You cut him off, he's taken aback, furrowing his eyebrows.

"Yes...?" He asks a bit scared.

"When did you ask me out?"

"When we went furniture shopping and I asked you if would consider having lunch with me?" All his answers sound like questions, your face scrunched in confusion.

"Did you not know we were?" He asks sceptical, you shake your head lightly, looking at him with a frown.

"Why don't you hold my hand then? You never hug me, and see!" You point to him, still frowning. "You sit so far away!" Your frustation takes over as you look up into his eyes.

Mingyu's concern dissipating a little as he registers your words.

"I didn't wanna be really touchy and make you uncomfortable. I know you don't love skinship and you know how I am, what if I scared you away?" He says smiling at you softly, placing his hand on top of yours perched on the sofa between the two of you.

"You never kissed me..." You mutter lowly, doubt clear in your voice.

"Oh baby," Whispers out Mingyu, moving closer to you, one hand placed between the back of the sofa and and your thigh, other gently coming up to caress your jaw.

"Would you like that?" He quips, gazing into your eyes, movie completely forgotten, only serving as background noise now.

A shallow breath releases from you before you speak out a definite 'yes' leaning in a little closer.

His free hand moves to your nape pulling you in gently, one of your hands instinctively sliding up his chest to rest on his shoulder, the other holding his bicep to ground yourself.

His lips meet yours, eager but gentle, hesitantly moving, encasing your lower lip. Confidence growing within his chest as he hears a small sigh leave you, your own doubt clearing and being replaced with pure bliss.

His hand from your nape moves back to cup your jaw softly, pulling away leisurely, eyes closed, exhaling a heavy breath, your chest equally heavy, grip loosening off his shoulder and bicep.

"So?" Mingyu almost seeks out an answer, something, hopefully positive as you come to your senses opening your eyes and gazing into his dreamy ones. A small smile growing on your face causing him to exhale heavily in relief, a grin cascading over his golden boyish features.

A little giggle leaving your lips before engulfing him a hug "I've utterly enjoyed every single date we've been on. Sorry for being stupid." You say, face buried in his neck.

His own chest rumbles with a light laugh, "It's okay, at least we got over that misunderstanding." He says stroking your back in a soothing manner.

"Should we turn this movie night into a date?"

"Yes please, I'm gonna grab blankets so we can cuddle." You say disappearing into your room with a wide grin, leaving behind an ecstatic and content Mingyu.

He may or may not have punched the air in victory, shhh!

///

Texting- (gc... y/n, dk, hoshi, vernon, kwan)

Y/n: Thanks for spilling the beans Seokminnie~

Seokmin: Oh! That was my plan all along!!

Hoshi: About fvcking time-

Vernon: Have fun ;)

Seungkwan: AND GIVE US THE DEETS LATER!!

///

Texting- (gc... gyu, scoups, wonwoo, the8, dino)

Mingyu: Y/n just realized we've been dating??!!

Seungcheol: I told you to properly ask her out!!

Wonwoo: Damn.

Minghao: Use protection

Chan: Have fun hyung ;)

Mingyu: Oh fvck off!

Chan: What did I do-

.

ot13 seventeen : when you have trouble sleeping

seungcheol : probably buys you a lot of products and gadgets like white noise machine and air purifiers and blankets to help you sleep better. will indulge you and cuddle you till you get comfortable and sleep

jeonghan : will run his fingers through your scalp and massage your head lightly to induce sleep. surprisingly it worked

joshua : will end up staying up with you. you two have some real deep talk about yourselves and your relationships and just everything around you.

junhui : will take you to the balcony with a lot of blankets and cuddle you on the relaxing chair. he believes stargazing and the fresh cool air will help you sleep better. both of you end up falling asleep in the single chair, you on top of him.

hoshi : will tell you a silly bed time story and keeps extending it with his imagination till he hears your soft snores, and then wraps his arms around you, murmuring a good night in your hair before sleeping too.

wonwoo : would joke about fucking you so you get tired and fall asleep and gets actually surprised when you ask him to try out. he would fuck you, but more gently and passionately to bring you to a satisfying, sleep-bringing orgasm

woozi : magic in his arms. somehow he will hug you tight and you'll just fall asleep soon, full of his scent as you nuzzle your face in the crook of his neck. will pepper you with kisses, making you feel full and loved.

minghao : will make you some hot chamomile or hibiscus tea for you. will sit down with you and ask if there is anything on your mind that is keeping you up and talk with you about it if there is.

mingyu : he is very cuddly while sleeping and with those big arms, he is usually very warm and comfy to cuddle with. however if you can't sleep with that, he'll hold you loose, letting you get some air and get comfortable in your space before pulling you close into a comfier position

seokmin : he'll hum or sing for you. he has a very sweet voice and it be such a waste if he didn't. you find his voice very soothing and have told him before so he knows the best way to help you sleep is by softly singing by your ear.

seungkwan : he is used to staying awake till you sleep first so when you are not able to sleep for a long time he knows something is wrong and asks you about it. whether it you are not finding a comfortable position to sleep or are bothered by something in your mind, he'll help you with it.

vernon : wouldn't be as quick to notice your discomfort but when he does, he is really concerned. would take you for a long walk if it helps your mind come at ease. he won't pry you to tell him whats keeping you up, but if you tell him, he'll listen to you diligently.

chan : will stay up with you if you need to talk about something or just watch tiktok with you while spooning you or cuddle you in whatever position you feel most comfortable in or all of the above, depending on how you are feeling.

hiiii!!!! i adore your works and love reading them!! 🫶🏻 while scrolling through your profile i saw that your requests for ot13 were open! :) so i thought maybe i could request ot13 reaction to a s/o with tattoos? (doesn't have to be a full sleeve for example, just tattoos in general)

or if you're not really feeling it, maybe ot13 reaction to a s/o with physical touch as their love language? 🫣

i hope you're having a nice day / night and keep up the good work!! 💘

ot13 seventeen : when your love language is physical touch

ceecee's note : sorry for late post lol and also I'm doing the second prompt not cuz I'm uncomfy with tattoos in fact I have two myself but I just find the second one really fluffy tho if you want me to do another one with the first prompt too, you can ask again and I would love writing about it too <33

seungcheol : he's really clingy himself, so he loves that you show your love to him by constantly hugging him and cuddling with him. when not in front of camera, the two of your really look like those teddy bears who hug each other and have been stitchd at their hands so they can literally not be separated from each other. like two koalas.

jeonghan : doesn't respond to you clinging on him very actively like seungcheol but everytime you hug him, he'll automatically hug back and when you are just touch starved, he'll come and plop his head on your lap so you can touch him and hug him and cuddle him all you want.

joshua : my gentleman. not the one to usually start physical contactbut really loves when you do and responds with almost the same energy. loves having you in his arms and keeping you warm all the time.

junhui : secretly very cuddly. doesn't show it a lot at the start of your relationship. now he'll pout every second you are not physically in contact with him and is just as much of a cuddle bear as you are.

soonyoung : he also naturally has physical-touch as his love language. he is more often clinging on you that you on him and literally loves when you two are hugging so close there is not even space for vacuum between you two, cheeks squishing against each other.

wonwoo : physical affection isnt his love language but he loves being the recipient of it. there are very less people he is as comfortable to be so close and touchy with and you are one of them. he really loves having you cling onto him like you are a koala and he is your tree branch

woozi : he rarely responds to you cuddling to him always, but that doesn't mean he doesn't love it. he really loves it. he actually feels so loved and appreciated the way you are always holding on him. on rare occasions like when he is tired or just full of love for you, he'll initiate physical touch by hugging you close and clinging to you instead.

minghao : doesn't show on surface to others how much he loves having you constantly bother him with hugs and cuddles and touches but you do know that he really enjoys that just by how he looks at you and smiles at you and always has a loose yet firm hand resting on your hips or back everytime you are by his side.

mingyu : this big baby literally feels so happy every time you cling to him. though physical touch isn't his primary love lang, its definitely one of them. literally greets you with bone-crushing hugs everytime and is peppering you with kisses whenever you cuddle beside him.

seokmin : he loves whenever you are constantly touching him. loves seeing you smile when you hug him and breath full of his scent. hugs you every chance he gets because he knows how much you like it. would never push you off him or even tell you so whenever you are hugging or cuddling him, even if he gets slightly uncomfortable or his arm dies under the weight of your head.

seungkwan : all he really needs after the long day of work is being hugged full by you. it just so helps that you love doing so. literally relaxes under your touch every time, just increasing you urge to keep him close all the time. if you let go of him even momentarily, he'll get so sulky.

vernon : he isn't one to start physical touch by himself either, but is always really comfortable when you do so. doesn't even realsie when he wraps his arms around you and rests his head on top of yours while cuddling. just loves you being in his space when he loves you.

chan : he's the kind who keeps changing his love language to match his partner's. your love language is physical touch? well now so is his! literally matches your energy in cuddliness and touchiness all the time. will hold you close and tight all the time and kiss you all the time because he knows how much you love it.

House husband! Kim mingyu x reader drabble (comf + fluff + smut)

Imagine coming home after a long day at work. You had worked an extra shift after your boss has embarrassingly and sexistly reprimanded you in front of your important clients during your meeting. You are tired as hell, your eyes are aching from sitting on your laptop for hours, your feet hurt from wearing your business heels and youre just frustrated.

When you open the door, you are instantly greeted by mingyu who peeks at you from the kitchen, puts away whatever he was cooking and runs to you like a little kid, the sweetest and brightest smile on his face as he greets you and takes your laptop bag from you.

"hey, beautiful," he says, pecking your lips sweetly, "I saw your location near home so I just drew you a warm bath. Go and get fresh and I'll set the table by then." You smile sappily, feeling all your tension lift off your shoulders by the thought of a nice warm bath.

You strip out of your clothes once you reach bathroom and sink into the warm water in the bath tub, sighing in relief. The water helps the soreness in your muscles and you feel like you could sleep then and there if not for your stomach making protest noises from hunger. You lazily lather up some soap on your hands and legs and wash up before getting out of the tub and drying yourself up with the warm towel which you could bet was freshly out of the drier. You sigh dreamily, whatever good deeds did you commit to get a perfect husband like mingyu.

You pull over one of Mingyu's oversized tee's and slip on a pair of pajama shorts, heading towards the dining when the aroma of the food mingyu prepared. You settled on the dining table where mingyu was just serving you a plate of something new he made. He'd been trying to learn to make new cuisines from recipes he'd see online and have you taste them and they are always amazing.

"it's something greek! I saw a recipe and i know you like eggplants so i wanted to make it for you!" He told you and you chuckled. You took a bite of the creamy casserole-like dish, a satisfied moan immediately leaving your lips when the rich flavours reached your tastebuds. "Do you like it? Do you like it?"

You giggled at your man's excitement, "oh, I love it! So good, it feels like home!" Mingyu giggled and pecked your forehead before sitting beside you with his own plate. You two engage in mundane talks about your day and you tell mingyu about the horrible day you had at work and how he's already made you feel so much better about it.

"I never liked James anyways, your previous boss was better. Sad that she had to retire," mingyu comments. He then grins naughtily, nudgi g your feet with his own, "also, in case you are not too tired, I can make you happier~."

"really? I'd love me some fun dessert," you say winking.

Once you two were done eating and cleaning the table and loading the dishwasher, he picked you up in his arms, bridal style, and took you to your bed, throwing you on the soft sheets before kissing you like no tomorrow. You laugh into the kiss out of pure joy of how excited your husband gets when you are like this.

He pulls over his tshirt, revealing his hot abs and gorgeous body and pulls down his sweatpants, leaving him in his black CK boxers which did nothing to hide the big size of his hardened cock. You reached out to grab it, but mingyu held your wrist. "Uh-uh, beautiful, tonight is 'bout you."

He pushed your shoulders till you are laying flat against the bed and push your tshirt up to reveal your boobs. He kisses down the sensitive soft skin of your chest, nibbling and marking the flesh near your areolas and sucking on your nipples when you tangled your fingers in his shirt black hair. He moved south, kissing your bloated tummy (thanks to the amazing food your husband makes for you) and down your navel.

He takes the waist band of your shorts in his teeth and effortlessly pulls them off your legs, not having to deal with your underwear since you didn't wear any after your shower. Mingyu would tease you about it any other day but right now he's just too hungry to tast you to care about it.

He kissed down your thighs, bruising the delicate skin with his teeth. As desperate he was for your pussy, he never compromises on foreplay. When he was satisfied with his artwork on your thighs, he finally moved his mouth to your cunt, licking a stripe, his tongue dipping under your outer labia, moaning at the taste. Nothing he would ever cook could compare to the heaven that hid between your legs.

He used his hands to spread your legs wider and hooking then over his shoulders for support. He lapped at your juices like a starved dog, continuously praising you for getting so wet and how great you tasted. He entered his middle and ring finger, palm up in your cunt, thrusting in and out and curling them at the spongy part which made your thighs shakez while he got down on sucking on your clitoris, determined to make you cum before he could fuck you.

You cum surprisingly cum quicker than usual, your thighs shaking and hips stuttering over mingyu's face. You whined when mingyu put his tongue over your sensitive clit again. "Baby, p-please, fuck me already. I need you dick."

"I'll give you what you need baby, but I want to make you cum once more before that."

"ah! I'd love that, but I'll actually fall asleep after another orgasm, and I need that one to be from your dick." You whine. As much as you enjoy letting mingyu pull orgasm after orgasm from you before he even got his cock in you, you were too tired today. And as much mingyu loves seeing you cum over and over on his tongue and fingers, he doesn't want to tire you out too much. It's still Wednesday, and you need to go to work tomorrow, and he'd hate to have you get insufficient rest.

So he reluctantly pulls away from your beautiful pussy and takes off his boxers, his dick springing up against his hard abs. As often as you have seen your husband's penis, it never gets tiring to such over that beautiful length and thick girth. You reach your hand to stroke him a little, spreading his already leaking precum throughout the length.

He grabs your hips, slotting his cock head against your entrance and slowly thrusting in. You moan as the pleasurable sting of the stretch from his dick clouds up your mind. Mingyu stays inside for a second, leaning down over your body to kiss you. He starts fucking you, a little slow at first till you catch up with him, before putting into your hips like an animal in heat.

His loud groans matches your moans, your manicured nails sure to leave back scratches all over your back as you grip him tightly for support. Mingyu's hands venture back to grab your ass because he just can't help it and grips it tightly enough to bruise them with his finger prints.

You both reach your orgasm almost simultaneously, him helping you by rubbing your little clit. You cum first, breathing heavily as the dopamine release feel fluid in your veins. Mingyu cums soon after, your walls spasming around him post-orgasm stimulating him just the right amount to paint your insides white. The creamy seme leaks as he exits you gently.

He kisses your face gently, leaving to get a wash cloth. He cleans between your legs up with the warm and wet towel before getting another softer towel to dry it. You are already asleep by the time he comes back. He pulls down your tshirt to cover a decent amount of you and slides into the bed beside you, pulling the covers over you as he pulls you close for cuddles. You wake up momentarily to adjust yourself closer to him, wishing him a good night before you both fall asleep, happy and comfortable in each other's arms.

Now stop imagining cuz ain't no mingyu becoming our cute little house-husband

Wooohoooo!! @Sluttywoozi This was a great ( and super hot! )finale to this little miniseries. To everyone else, this is a definite must read especially if you love a simpy mingyu like I do 💕

Adore You | Chapter 3 | KMG x F!Reader

I'd walk through fire for you, Just let me adore you

Rating: M (18+) | WC: ~4.1k | Genre: rom com, fluff, smut, office au

Warnings: fingering, oral (f. rec.), praise kink, switch!mingyu, discussion of prophylactics, condomless piv sex, creampie

Reader Notes: wears a skirt, boss bitch, touch starved, gets nails done, wap, referred to as a woman

Mingyu organizes the papers on his desk one last time, filing a few and setting one aside to copy for the morning, before turning pushing back and standing to stretch. You worked late tonight, and it’s just about time for you to be leaving. He doubts there’s anyone but security left in the building, but he’s quiet as he knocks on your door anyway.

“Come in,” you call out, rising from your seat behind your desk as he steps into your office. You smooth down your skirt, brushing away nonexistent crumbs, and bring your eyes up to meet his. There’s something in them he’s never seen before, something that looks like apprehension and… desire?

“Mingyu… When you say ‘under the desk,’ what exactly do you mean?” 

He bites back a grin, tamps down the triumph rising in his chest, and responds, “I mean I can take care of you, and no one would have to know. Whether it’s here, at your place, at mine. I can be what you need, and we can keep it just between us.”

You look away, your lip caught between your teeth, and he senses you wavering in your resolve, in your professionalism. He wants to see you act as a woman, not an executive, so he takes a step closer and undoes the first few buttons of his shirt, letting the heat in his gaze shine through for once. 

“I don’t know, it’s a big risk, we could both get fired for this,” you waffle, your eyes darting back and forth between his and the bit of skin he’s revealed. 

“We could,” he agrees. “But, you know what else could happen? I could make you cum however many times you want, clean you up, and send you on your way, and nobody would ever find out. You can be quiet, can’t you?” 

“I mean, I- yes, I can be quiet, but that’s beside the-” you stutter weakly, your voice low and trembling. 

“Let me ask you one thing, and if the answer is no, I’ll leave you alone and we can pretend this never happened.”

You nod reluctantly, shifting to stand behind your chair when he takes one step closer to you. 

“Do you want me?”

Your eyelashes flutter and your fingers tighten on the leather of your chair as you look away from him and breathe, “It’s not that simple.”

“Yes, it is. Because if you want me, I’ll give myself to you. Whatever you want, whatever you need, I’ll give it to you. It can be that easy,” he begs assures you. “Just let me take care of you, that’s all I want to do.”

Silence fills your office, the air between you and Mingyu electric, and it takes everything in him to stay where he is, to stay still, to let you deliberate. Hours pass, or maybe seconds, he doesn’t know, before you turn back to face him, resolution clear in your gaze. 

“Okay. Take care of me, Mingyu.” 

Heat scorches through his limbs as he slowly closes the distance between you, approaching you carefully and reaching a hand out. When you take it, he pulls your chair back and guides you into it, following you down to land on his knees. You gasp at the sight, holding the arm rests of your chair with a tight knuckled grip as he starts to push at the hem of your skirt. 

“I’ll get you on a bed next time, promise,” he sighs, leaning in to nose along your inner thigh and sighing at the smell of your skin. You don’t respond and he looks up to find your eyes closed and your mouth open, making him wonder just how long it’s been since someone loved on you. 

He won’t ask, doesn’t think he’d like the answer, instead vows to himself that he’ll fill the gap with hours of sheer adoration, that he’ll remind you you’re someone to be treasured, to be worshiped. 

And he’ll start by sucking gentle kisses into the sensitive skin of your inner thighs, resting his hands on your knees, and slowly pushing them apart to give him more room to work. You slide down in the chair and widen your legs for him, gasping the second he comes into contact with your panties. 

They’re black, silky, lacy, and they look so fucking pretty against your skin he almost doesn’t want to take them off. But they need to go if he wants to do his best for you, so he hooks his fingers into the sides and starts pulling them down, thanking you quietly when you lift your hips to ease the way. 

He can’t hold the air in his lungs when he sets eyes on you for the first time, all of his breath exiting in a whoosh he’s sure you can feel as he gazes at you in awe. You’re shining for him, swollen and open and plump and perfect, and now, you’re all his.

“Prettiest pussy I’ve ever seen, baby. Can I call you that? Baby?” He mumbles against you, pressing his lips to your folds and letting you feel them move as he speaks. You take in a shuddering gasp, digging your manicured nails into the armrests and nodding as if you don’t trust yourself to speak. 

He’ll take it, won’t push his luck this first time, brings his fingers up to your cunt and spreads you apart so he can lap at your swollen little clit. The way the bud throbs under his tongue makes him moan, makes him nuzzle in closer, makes him wrap his lips around it and suck. You jerk against him, one of your hands delving into his hair and bringing him flush to you, and suddenly, he’s in heaven. 

Your taste is coating his tongue, your scent is surrounding him, and if he tilts his chin into you, you can grind into it and he can keep his eyes on your face, which makes him more proud of his bone structure than he’s ever been in his life. 

He loves the sensation of your hand in his hair, loves feeling you guide him where you want him, loves the way pleasure and pain seem to be at war within you as he sucks and sucks and sucks. He doesn’t stop, just follows you as you buck your hips and ride his face, breathing through his nose and swallowing down every bit of arousal that slips past his lips. 

He’s obsessed with this, obsessed with your pussy, never wants to stop or leave, just wants to make you feel good, just wants to make you cum. Soon enough, that’s all he can think about, please cum please cum please cum repeating in his head as he holds you open and drinks you down. 

It’s like you can hear him, sense his wordless begging, because you suck in a shuddering breath and break against him, your thighs snapping shut around his ears as you gush onto his face. He can feel it dripping down his jaw, groans deeply and opens his mouth wider to catch what he can before locking his lips around you again and taking another deep pull. 

You choke on nothing, your nails scratching against his scalp as you yank him closer and whisper, “Fingers, Mingyu.”

He whines into you, brings two fingers to your entrance and lets them sink in to the first knuckle, sucking noisily at your clit as he pushes them deeper inside. 

You’re searing hot and soaking wet, your walls hugging his fingers perfectly, and Mingyu just knows he’ll never feel a pussy better than yours. He’ll just have to do his absolute best to keep you, whether he stays your executive assistant or manages to get promoted to boyfriend. 

If he gets to keep doing this, he’ll be happy either way. He thinks you will be too, because you just keep getting wetter and tighter the longer he licks your throbbing clit and curls his long, thick fingers. He starts crooking them at different depths, searching for the spot that will make you flood him. 

When you jump and let out a high pitched squeak, he knows he’s found it, and he takes advantage immediately. Grinding, rubbing, tapping into it over and over and over until you’re shaking above him and clutching his hair so tight, it hurts. 

It’s a good kind of pain, especially because it’s caused by you, and Mingyu feels his cock twitch and leak and harden in response. He can tell you’re nearing the edge again, your walls fluttering around his fingers and your clit pulsing under his tongue, and he doesn’t know what you need to fall over but he’ll give anything to feel you cum again. 

He would tell you, beg you, but he’s too busy sucking your clit to get any words out, knows the worst thing he could do right now is stop. Soon enough, he’s rewarded for his efforts. You shatter into his mouth, your inner muscles undulating around his fingers as you drench his face. High, sharp gasps leave you but you make no other sounds, and as well as Mingyu knows it’s best to be quiet, he still wishes he could hear what you sound like when he makes you cum. 

That’ll have to be for next time, he promises himself as he carries you through your orgasm, crooking his fingers into your g-spot and licking at your clit until your fingers loosen in his hair and you push him away. 

There’s a pop when he pulls his mouth off you and a slick squelch when he withdraws his fingers, and he lets his gaze refocus on your face as he licks them clean. You’re glowing with pleasure, your expression soft and your eyes heavy lidded, and the gentle smile you send him makes his heart feel fit to burst. 

He loves seeing you like this, loves knowing that he’s the reason you look so content, so satisfied, and he’s almost infatuated enough to forget about his aching, dripping cock. 

“Can I just jerk off really quick? It won’t go down on its own, not after that.” 

“You can. Or you could fuck me.” 

That would bring him to his knees if he wasn’t already there. 

He didn’t expect to get to feel you tonight, or ever; he would be content to just give everything to you and take nothing for himself, if that was what you wanted. It seems you’re after more than that, and Mingyu can’t say he’s not grateful. 

Because he is, he’s grateful that you’re letting him see you, feel you, know you in this way. That you’re allowing him to touch you and taste you and take you apart. And now, you’re going to let him put himself inside of you. 

He’s the luckiest man alive. 

“Thank you,” he breathes, hoping you don’t notice that he’s suppressing tears as he unbuckles his belt with shaking hands. He’s pushing his boxers and slacks down when he realizes with a horrified gasp, “I don’t have a condom.”

Your lips pinch to the side and your eyebrows furrow before you ask, “Have you been tested recently?”

He nods, “At my last physical. Everything was clear.”

“Me too, and I have an IUD.”

“So, are you saying…” he trails off, wanting to hear it from you.

“I’m saying you can fuck me raw. And cum inside me.”

Shit, he has to grip tight at the base of his cock so he doesn’t succumb to you right here and now, and even with that it’s still dangerously close. Everything comes into sharp focus, the sounds of the city beyond the triple-pane window, the light of the moon shining on your skin, the scent of your perfume and your arousal, and above all, the expression on your face. 

You look… undone, unwound, unspooled. He’s never seen you like this before, not after all nighters, not even after the company fun run, and as fond as he is of your usual polished look, he has to admit that you’re more beautiful now than ever. 

“Mingyu?”

“Sorry! Sorry, I got distracted.”

He rises to his feet, lets his pants fall to the ground, and starts unbuttoning his shirt. He’s got a tank top underneath and he doesn’t want to completely strip here in your office, but he does want to show off a little so he pulls the stretchy fabric up to rest under his pecs, leaving his abs exposed. 

Your eyes aren’t on his stomach though, they’re on his cock. He looks down, realizes he’s harder than he’s ever been, and gives himself a quick tug just to see what you’ll do. Your face crumples and you slide even lower in the chair, exhaling a breath that sounds more like a whine. He feels his lips stretch in a smirk and tries to bite it back, but he’s just too proud of how you respond to him to stop. 

“How do you want me?” He asks quietly, leaning forward and bracing his hands on the armrests to box you in. He doesn’t expect you to say, “How do you want me? You’ve obviously been thinking about this more than I have.” 

He can’t even deny it. Can’t deny that he’s pictured bending you over your desk, and taking you against the window, and hoisting you up on that little file cabinet you still keep even though almost everything is digital and he keeps reminding you to switch over and-

And ignoring all of that, there’s one way he’s always wanted to have you but never even dared to dream of. He wants to sit in your chair, the boss’s chair, and he wants you to bounce in his lap until you cum all over him. It goes against nearly everything he stands for, making you do the work, but fuck, he wants it so bad.

“Will you ride me? In your chair?” Mingyu wishes he didn’t sound so small asking you for this, but supposes it’s not so terrible when your face softens into a smile and you bend forward, just barely pressing your lips to his in a peck before you push him away with a hand on his chest. 

He lets you move him, if only because he’s so taken aback. This is the first kiss you’ve ever shared, and you did it like it was natural to you. Like you’re used to just pecking him whenever you feel fond. Like you’ve been doing it for years and it’s simply reflex by now. 

It makes him feel so… He doesn’t know how he feels. Content and safe are almost right but not quite. It’s more like a sense of belonging, like he’s just discovered he maybe belongs… with you? 

You stand and he doesn’t step away, instead he stays in your space and cautiously cups your cheek with a trembling hand. “Can I kiss you?”

His eyelids flutter shut as you nod, his mouth slightly parted and getting closer and closer to yours. He can feel your body radiating heat, the magnet that used to be his heart pulling him into you, and when your lips touch his, all of his wayward pieces fall into place. All of those nights spent alone weren’t for nothing, they weren’t a waste of time, because he spent them waiting for you. 

He makes the most forlorn noise when you pull away, but you’re insistent and he won’t keep you if you don’t want to be kept. He’s not sure that’s the case, though. Heat simmers in your eyes as you look at him, the last wall keeping him from you crumbling away in the wake of your desire. 

You reach for his shoulders and pull him down, switching places with him and guiding him into your chair. He sits heavily, spreading his legs and taking hold of your hips to steady you as you carefully straddle him. 

He wishes he could see more of you but he understands why he can’t, just promises himself he’ll lay you out and worship your whole body as soon as you give him the chance while he takes in a shuddering breath and lines himself up. 

The head of his cock comes into contact with your warm, wet pussy, and already he knows he won’t be the same after this. 

You’re just too perfect, too soft and soaked and searing hot, for him to be any type of normal as he pushes inside of you. You open up for him beautifully, your walls stretching to take his dick like it was made for you. When he finally peels his eyes away from the sight of your cunt swallowing his cock, he’s greeted with an expression on your face he’s never seen before. 

You look… relieved, your eyes closed and your mouth agape in bliss, like he's giving you something you’ve been needing, missing, desiring. 

Fuck, did your ex have a small dick? So not only could he not make you cum, he couldn’t satisfy you in that way either? Well, Mingyu can, and he will. He’ll give you everything you could ever need or want, and he won’t ever disappoint you like your ex constantly did. 

Starting with filling you up right, giving you something you can really squeeze down on, something that will hit all the best spots. And trying his absolute best not to cum while doing so. 

It’ll be difficult with how fucking good he feels, your hot cunt like a vise around him, molding so perfectly to his length that even the veins webbing his dick are supported. But, as always, you’re his priority and the most imperative thing right now is making sure you feel good. 

“How is it?” He breathes raggedly, staring up at you and waiting for you to find your words.

“Fucking perfect, Mingyu. You’re so big inside me,” you sigh, letting your head tilt back on your neck and slowly rising on your knees before falling back down. 

He twitches within your walls at your words, and at the languid pace you set, your lush pussy engulfing him over and over as he shifts to clutch at the armrests of the chair, his fingers digging into the fabric so they don’t dig into you. 

You don’t allow that for long, taking hold of his hands and bringing them back to your hips insistently, your face stern as you say, “Keep them on me.”

He shivers beneath you, nodding and gazing into your eyes, knowing that all of his feelings are laid bare in them. His desire, his need, his affection, his admiration, his… love. 

Your expression softens and you squeeze his hands, leaning down for a deep, languorous kiss before shuffling a bit closer and speeding up, your arms wrapping around his neck as your hips smack into his. 

The feeling of being buried in your flawless cunt over and over is enough to spark up the slowburn of his climax, heat coiling at the base of his spine as you start to bounce on him, just like he wanted. 

His hands smooth along your soft skin, his arms wrapping around you to help you move and to hold you close, your heart beating hard against his. He’s trying to be quiet and he can tell you are too, but he wants to talk to you, wants to tell you everything on his mind and in his heart. He supposes he’ll save it for next time, when he has you on a bed and in complete privacy. 

For now, he’ll bite his lip to muffle his sounds, half wanting to bite them into your neck and fully knowing he’s not allowed to. Besides, he wants to keep his eyes on you, on your face, so he can watch you take his dick, watch you get closer and closer, your eyelashes fluttering like your cunt is as you start to climb the hill. 

He’s right there with you, his cock twitching and leaking inside of your undulating pussy as he unravels one arm and brings his fingers down between your legs. He rubs at your clit with two fingers in the way he’s learned you like, staring desperately into your eyes as you sink down on him one last time and come apart. 

If the feeling of your cunt rippling around him isn’t enough to push him over the edge, the look on your face is. He fights to keep his eyes open so he can watch you, so he can carry you through your orgasm even as he’s ravaged by his own, his cum spilling so deep inside you, he hopes it’ll never leave. 

He holds you in the warm circle of his arms as you try to regain your breath, your heart thudding against his even through your blouse. He smooths his hands up and down your back, untucking your shirt so he can feel you palm to skin and bringing you closer so you can rest your head on his chest. 

Aftercare is just as, if not more, important than preparation in Mingyu’s mind, and his brand of aftercare entails cuddling for as long as possible. 

Cuddling, of course, turns to sleep. He wakes to his cock half hard inside of you and the sun rising in the picture windows of your office. He would be worried, but it’s not uncommon for the two of you to work early into the morning, and thankfully, it’s now a Saturday so the building should be next to empty. 

You stir when you feel him twitch within your walls, taking in a deep breath and exhaling it on a content sigh as you pick your head up and blink at him with bleary eyes. Your mascara is a little smudged, but he knows you keep makeup wipes for emergencies, so that will be easy to take care of. 

As will his hard on, apparently, because you start grinding on him, clenching around him until he’s fully hard inside of you and then clenching some more, your pussy so tight and wet on him, it’s like he’s wrapped in molten velvet. 

It doesn’t take much for him from there, just your whispered words of what you’ll let him do to you if only he’ll cum for you first and he’s pumping you full of spend again, groaning weakly into your neck as his balls empty inside of you. 

You let him rest for a few minutes before starting to pull away, smiling softly at his responding whine and pecking him on the nose when he releases you from his arms. You pluck a few tissues from the box on your desk and reach down between your legs, rising up just enough for his cock to slip out before catching all the cum with the tissues. Mingyu brings his hand up, replacing yours and gazing up at you with stars in his eyes as you start to fix your hair. 

It’s not too messy, and once he’s cleaned away the cum, your clothes are easy to right. When he’s done fussing over you, it almost looks like this never even happened. Mingyu can’t help the hollow feeling in his heart, wishing that he was going home with you instead of to his own empty apartment. 

He tidies his own clothes as you log out of your computer, organizing your desk one last time before turning to look at him with a relaxed smile. You take his hands in yours, swing them gently, and say, “Thank you, Mingyu. You don’t know what you’ve done for me, I haven’t felt this worry free in months.”

He grins in response, his feelings forgotten for a moment as you sweep him up in your current, as he realizes he’s accomplished exactly what he set out to do. 

He holds your hand all the way to the door of your office, reluctantly untangling his fingers from yours as you reach for the handle. Before you pull, you turn to him with a hesitant look on your face. 

“Are you, I mean, do you think you’d like to- Would you come to mine tonight? You could… stay over too. I’ll cancel my date.”

Mingyu hopes his smile isn’t too big, hopes his cheeks and ears aren’t too red, hopes his joy isn’t too obvious as he nods far more eagerly than he should. 

“I would love that,” he adds on for good measure, taking your hand for one last squeeze as you open the door. 

He can’t hold your hand in the elevator or in the lobby, but he feels like he’s floating as he follows you outside into the brisk morning air, the wave goodbye you send him before you turn and walk away feeling much more like a wave hello.

AN: woohoo! this little miniseries is done!! thank you to @bbychocolat for supporting me and @bahng-chrizz for encouraging me to post early just bc i wanted to and @petrichor-mingi for beta reading!

i hope this ending was worth the wait! pls let me know your feelings 💖

first snowfall | minwon

pairing: wonwoo x reader x mingyu

genre: fluff

warnings: not even a little bit edited

word count: 937

summary: in which you and your roommates spend the first snowfall of the winter season together

a/n: because it’s sunny in LA and my east coast heart misses snowy winters 

Your alarm buzzed away at 6am, set to wake you a few minutes before Seoul’s first snowfall of the season. At 6:05, you stumbled out of your room excitedly in your winter coat and pajamas before making your way to the living room. 

“Hot chocolate or coffee?” 

You jumped at the voice, quickly turning your head towards the kitchen entrance where it had come from. There stood your two roommates, mugs in their hands. You let out a deep sigh, walking over to them. 

“I didn’t know you guys were capable of being awake this early… also, coffee, please. I have an exam later.”

Mingyu got to work on your coffee while you and Wonwoo stood off to the side. 

“We knew you were getting up to watch the snow, so we wanted to join,” Wonwoo explained. 

“Roommate bonding time,” Mingyu added, handing you your coffee. “Should we go? It’s supposed to start at 6:15,” he suggested, ushering you and Wonwoo to the balcony of your apartment. The three of you stood shoulder to shoulder, mugs held tightly in your hands. Mingyu took his phone out, putting on some classical playlist at a low volume before sighing. 

“Way to set the mood, Gyu,” Wonwoo chuckled before taking a sip of his hot chocolate. A few peaceful moments of silence passed, the three of you basking in the music and the crisp wind. You eyes fell upon the city, waiting for it to be coated with a layer of snow.

And then, as if the world heard your thoughts, the first snowflake fell. Then the second, the third, until soon all of Seoul was covered by a sheet of snow. You reached out a hand, gathering the white flurries in your palm before folding your fingers on top. The feeling of the snow melting in your hand brought a grin to your face. 

Mingyu gathered some snow on his hand as well, the stuff melting immediately in his warm palm. He pouted, trying again to catch the snow without it melting. 

Wonwoo remained still, feeling the snow fall on his face. It tickled his nose, but he made no move to brush it off. Despite hating the cold, he appreciated the feeling off the snow on his warm face. 

“Do you guys know that old saying: About how if you’re in the snow during the first snowfall with someone you like, true love will blossom between you,” you randomly blabbered, unsure what type of reaction you wanted from your words. Another silence fell again, this time thick with unspoken tensions. Mingyu let out a harsh laugh, seemingly involuntary, since he was quick to grow quiet afterwards. For a while, no one made noise again. Your words rang in each of your heads, coating your thoughts in the way the snow covered Seoul. Eventually, an hour passed. Your mugs were empty. Wonwoo’s hands were shaking, and Mingyu’s phone buzzed twice. 

“It’s Dokyeom. He wanted to try this new cafe near campus before our class starts… Did you guys want to go?” Mingyu asked, his eyes slightly hopeful as he looked between you and Wonwoo. 

“I have an exam in two hours, and I promised Vernon I’d help him review before it,” you replied. 

“Yeah, I was going to go back to sleep. I don’t have class until 3pm,” Wonwoo added. Mingyu nodded, though an evident pout formed on his lips. You smiled at his expression, reaching your free hand up to caress his face. 

“We can get dinner tonight, okay? The three of us. You can pick where we go.”

Mingyu nuzzled against your hand, his head nodding slightly. “Sounds good.”

“Hey, I didn’t consent to this spontaneous dinner. What if I had plans?” Wonwoo questioned, his face attempting to look serious but his smile unable to fade. You turned towards Wonwoo, your hand moving from Mingyu’s face to grasp Wonwoo’s shaky hand.

“You don’t have plans because you love us.”

Wonwoo paused, his smile embarrassingly widening at your touch. He squeezed your hand. 

“Yeah, I do.”

As you and Wonwoo smiled at each other, Mingyu audibly cringed, mumbling something about needing to bang his head against the wall. You and Wonwoo laughed, Mingyu still muttering to himself as he grabbed yours and Wonwoo’s mugs and headed inside. After a few moments passed, you turned back towards Wonwoo.

“Sleep well, Won. I’ll see you later.” I love you and I want you to rest well.

“Good luck on your exam. I know you’ll do well.” I love you and I believe in you. 

“Hey, do you need a ride to campus? Dokeyom can wait.” I love you, let me take care of you.

The three of you went about your separate ways, Wonwoo going back to his room and you and Mingyu getting ready before leaving to go to school. Later that night, Mingyu took the three of you to a new restaurant in town, one with a menu full of your favorite dishes and an atmosphere Wonwoo loved. The night ended in the living room, the three of you cuddled on the couch under one blanket, watching a new Netflix show and sharing a bowl of popcorn. Occasional touches and glances would elicit smiles from each of you, a new tension filling the small apartment. 

And yeah, that old saying was probably bogus, but later that night you would all go to Wonwoo’s room to sleep since he had the largest bed, and as the night turned to morning, you all realized that a life without the three of you, was not a life at all. 

Exhausted

Each step from your office to your apartment feels like a dagger in your heart, but it all goes away when you see your boyfriend in a pink apron his broad back, his biceps bulging, his back facing you he's so mesmerized in cooking he doesn't even realize you are here. "Babe?" you whisper yell. It's loud enough to scare the hell out of him. It's funny to see a 6-foot-2 giant get scared so easily. "When'd you come?" he asks. "Just now. What you doin'?" you ask. "Making dinner," he says while pulling you in an embrace. His hugs have always made all your worries within a second as if it was all magic. He lets go, but you pull him closer "Just 2 mins," you say. He chuckles. Just staying like that makes you feel recharged, that's when you realize you are home, he's your home.

🌌°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･𝓜𝓪𝓼𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓵𝓲𝓼𝓽 °❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･

⋆ ★ʙꜰ!ꜱᴇᴜɴɢᴄʜᴇᴏʟ ʜᴇᴀᴅᴄᴀɴɴᴏɴꜱ

⋆ ★ᴇxʜᴀᴜꜱᴛᴇᴅ

⋆ ★ᴍᴏʀɴɪɴɢꜱ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴡᴏɴᴡᴏᴏ

⋆ ★ ʙʀᴏᴋᴇɴ

⋆ ★ ɢᴀᴍᴇʀʙꜰ!ᴡᴏɴᴡᴏᴏ ʜᴇᴀᴅᴄᴀɴɴᴏɴꜱ

⋆ ★ᴄʟɪɴɢʏʙꜰ!ʜᴇᴀᴅᴄᴀɴɴᴏɴꜱ

⋆ ★ꜱᴏꜰᴛɪᴇ ᴠᴇʀɴᴏɴ

⋆ ★ꜱᴇx ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴡᴏɴᴡᴏᴏ

⋆ ★ʜɪᴅᴅᴇɴ ʜᴀʀᴍᴏɴɪᴇꜱ

⋆ ★ᴛᴏxɪᴄʙꜰ!ᴡᴏɴᴡᴏᴏ

Exhausted

Each step from your office to your apartment feels like a dagger in your heart, but it all goes away when you see your boyfriend in a pink apron his broad back, his biceps bulging, his back facing you he's so mesmerized in cooking he doesn't even realize you are here. "Babe?" you whisper yell. It's loud enough to scare the hell out of him. It's funny to see a 6-foot-2 giant get scared so easily. "When'd you come?" he asks. "Just now. What you doin'?" you ask. "Making dinner," he says while pulling you in an embrace. His hugs have always made all your worries within a second as if it was all magic. He lets go, but you pull him closer "Just 2 mins," you say. He chuckles. Just staying like that makes you feel recharged, that's when you realize you are home, he's your home.

Clingybf!mingyu headcannons

Clingybf!mingyu who loves to cuddle with you

Clingybf!mingyu who loves to cling onto your arm while you guys are walking

Clingybf!mingyu who always keeps a hand on the back of your waist while you guys are in the grocery line

Clingybf!mingyu who gets sulky if you kiss him at LEAST 100 times a day (he counts)

Clingybf!mingyu who always talks about you to his members til they get sick

Clingybf!mingyu who daydreams about you in practice

Clingybf!mingyu who never forgets to refill your favourite snacks

Clingybf!mingyu who is always the small spoon in your relationship

Clingybf!mingyu who looks at you with those puppy eyes which you cannot resist when he wants to cuddle

Clingybf!mingyu who loves to see you in his hoodie in his pov you just look so cute and fluffy and hugable

Clingybf!mingyu who NEEDS to have your and on his while you are outside

Clingybf!mingyu who NEEDS you to call him 'babe' 'baby' and all those sweet pet names or he thinks you are mad

Clingybf!mingyu who is the chef in your house

Clingybf!mingyu who is like your mind-reader he just KNOWS what you need

Clingybf!mingyu whose love language is physical touch, sending gifts, words of affirmation

Clingybf!mingyu who gets so red and shy everytime you compliment him

Clingybf!mingyu who just loves to sleep on your girls, like he doesn't even need a pillow

Clingybf!mingyu who trusts you with all his life

healing comes in small doses: fireworks

pairing: husband! dad! kim mingyu x afab! reader

one, two, three

synopsis: your husband takes you and your little family on an evening out. they're everything you could ask for, but there's a gap in your chest you've yet to feel.

w.c: 4,3k

tags: npr, non idol!au, domestic fluff, established relationship, married life, dad!mingyu, you have a daughter, terms of endearment (baby, honey, eomma, appa), soft mingyu, fluff,

warnings: references of distant parents and tough upbringing (not the main pairing), references of tough parental discipline/physical abuse (i’m not diving deep into it, but i also wouldn’t call it abuse based on the context and the culture i was raised in. However, i will still put that tag out there for others who were raised in a different culture or principles. Please do not argue with me on this because spanking/slapping can be viewed differently for each culture. Even so and even then, i don’t encourage it.)

a/n: this is super self indulgent, domestic, and lots of family discussions. better get used to it when its me jhgkdfh. this was actually therapeutic for me to write and whether you came here for the fluff or not, i hope there's something meaningful you can pick up on. Also, let me know your thoughts or if i should start up a world for this couple like to build a home wonwoo. If you liked it, please reblog with tags so it reaches others, too. Enjoy :)

Your fingers drum restlessly against your bag while you crane your neck towards the window, peering as far as you can see. The traffic seems to move slowly but steadily. Checking the digital display of the next bus stop, you quietly sigh when you realize it’ll be two more stops before you could reach home. Pulling out your phone, you shoot a quick text to Mingyu, knowing he’s waiting with your daughter for your arrival. Tonight would be the Seoul Fireworks Festival and you had both wanted to bring your toddler to see it. 

y/n💖: hey babe, running a little late. Stuck in traffic.

y/n💖: at this rate ill probably be there in fifteen minutes

It takes about a few minutes before your husband responds.

gyu 💗: no worries, baby. It was traffic on the way back from daycare too

gyu 💗: told ya i should have picked u up on the way 

y/n💖:  but its fine! im literally in the opposite direction.

y/n💖: was seo ah okay tho?

gyu 💗: she was perfect, took a nap the entire time kkk

With the traffic in consideration, you calculate the time you would make it to Hangang river together. You’d need to do a quick change from your work outfit and get dinner on the way instead. Just as you were about to ask your husband to make sure Seo Ah was fed and changed when you get home, Mingyu sends you a photo that makes your heart flutter.

gyu 💗: look we’re matchy matchyyyy~

[attached image] 

It’s a photo of your two most favorite people in the world. Mingyu’s wavy locks are tucked into a springy ponytail on top of his head, his grin is wide, showing his canines and wrinkling his eyes. Your daughter, a spitting image of her father, has her chubby little hands clinging onto his dark sweatshirt. She’s looking at the camera, the top of her thick hair tied into a smaller springy ponytail, the ends curling like a heart. How he managed to touch her hair? You’ll never know but you’ll congratulate him later for doing the impossible task of taming your daughter’s hair without her yanking it free a minute later. 

Her pink pouty lips parted, eyes wide in wonder and you notice there’s a bib tucked beneath her chin. Seo Ah’s wearing her fluffy white turtleneck, a different set of clothes from what you had dressed her that morning before daycare.

Seemed like your husband already thought ahead of you.

You smile fondly, reacting to the photo with heart eyes and spamming the text with multiple heart-related emojis. Because that's all you felt looking at that photo, all the love you could possibly give. 

You save their selfie, putting it as a favorite in your gallery amongst all the other candid pictures you have of your little family. Among your favorites are of Mingyu shaving, his jaw thick with foam while Seo Ah sits on the bathroom counter, watching curiously and only because she was particularly clingy that morning. One where you’re taking a nap together on the couch that’s too small for your husband’s frame but he makes it fit with you on your side, tucked beneath his jaw and your daughter resting on top of his chest. The next frame however is when you wake up first, your eye is crinkled in amusement while over your shoulder, Mingyu is resting peacefully, jaw slack but your daughter’s chubby foot somehow made its way to his cheek. There’s one during Seo Ah’s first day in day care, her eyes are shining with tears, lips trembling, and her cheeks ruddy but when she sees the camera she does her absolute best to keep composed. You giggle at that, knowing how Mingyu’s knack for photography has gotten her used to her photos being taken. Finally, there’s one of you and your daughter, taken by your husband himself. You’re laying on the carpeted floor of her nursery, daughter crawled up to your chest, cupping your face with both her hands as she’s in mid squeal. You’re laughing too, and you can’t remember if you were laughing or grinning so widely. Mingyu made it his wallpaper and you complain that you could see your double chin from your position in that photo. He only raised a brow at you, asking you with utmost sincerity what that meant because he absolutely adored the looks of pure happiness in both your eyes. 

Something in your heart begins to hurt and mend itself.

You smile, tucking your phone into your pocket as you look out the window to watch how the traffic slowly picks up its speed.

You’re antsy, not out of exasperation but this time–the excitement to get home. 

________

When you arrive home, you rush to chuck your shoes off and make a beeline past the kitchen where you can hear Mingyu’s voice cooing and your daughter’s unintelligible babbles about vegetables. She’s only two but she’s starting to repeat and recognize common words. Her first word being “Ma” much to your husband’s dismay as he dramatically fainted the first time she said it. 

You try to be discreet as you pass by, knowing that once your daughter sees you, its game over for you and you’ll never be able to change as quickly as you must. Even at a quick glance towards your figure brushing  through the hall, Mingyu sees you and his eyes immediately light up. You hold up a finger to your lips and point to your bedroom, mouthing that you need to get changed first. He nods, quickly understanding how fussy and clingy your little girl gets. 

Once you’ve finished getting dressed and freshening up in a record of ten minutes, you head back to the kitchen where you find Mingyu cleaning up while Seo Ah sits in her baby chair. At the sound of your footsteps, both of them look towards you in an adorably timed way. You smile at your daughter as she immediately squeals and reaches towards you. 

“Hello, my baby,” you coo warmly, picking her up and nuzzling your kisses into her plump cheeks, “I missed you today!”

Seo Ah starts babbling and giggling when you blow raspberries into her cheeks and arms. The sounds fill you with warmth and happiness, all the stress of the day melting away. 

“Look at you all ready to go!” you wiggle your finger across her sweater, vest, and bonnet. “Are you ready to see the fireworks then, Seo Ah-yah?” 

She nods with a toothy grin, her eyes twinkling, so much like her father. Speaking of, Mingyu clears his throat and you look over at him. He’s pouting at you, bottom lip jutted out and brows furrowed. You tilt your head in confusion, checking your surroundings–clean, your clothes–warm, your feet–thick socks. You look back at him in question when all things have checked out. 

Dramatic as ever, his broad shoulders slump, and he rolls his eyes, turning back at the sink to dry his daughter’s plastic bowl. He continues to sulkily wipe the sink clean, and dry his hands when you approach him. 

You lean up against him with a teasing smile before tiptoeing, pressing a kiss that only reaches his jaw. 

“And hello to Seo Ah’s appa~” 

Mingyu huffs out an annoyed sigh that you know isn’t really there due to his flushed cheeks. Still, he can’t help his giddy smile when he tilts his head to look at you and his daughter. You’re both looking up at him with shiny eyes as he leans down to peck your lips.

“Hi there, Seo Ah’s eomma,” he giggles sweetly when he pulls away. He leans back down to kiss you longer, lips easily molding with yours until you’re grinning. He pulls back with a lovestruck gaze, “And I missed you.”

You respond with a smile, unable to resist kissing his cheek before you pull away, “C’mon, or we’ll miss the fireworks.”

________ 

You’re sitting in the passenger seat with your daughter because she still can’t get used to sitting in the babyseat you both got her a week ago. She yanks off her beanie, causing Mingyu to click his tongue and attempt to reach for it with one hand on the wheel. The little thing twists in your lap, avoiding her father’s arm and you snort at the offended look he gives her.

“Yah, why are you so mean to me when your eomma’s around, huh?”

She ignores him, fascinated with the attached cat ears and stitched eyes and mouth. You smile fondly, reaching for Mingyu’s arm when he slows to the traffic light. His hand immediately seeks yours, twinning his fingers around them then bringing it up to his lips for a kiss.

“Did you get to eat on your way back?” 

You shake your head, the question somehow reminding you of your empty stomach. The countdown to the greenlight reaches 15 seconds and he reaches back for the baby bag. He hands it to you and asks you to dig around for the tupperware. Curious, you do as you're told, digging past your daughter’s crackers, extra clothes and wipes, till you find a roll of kimbap already cut into bite size pieces. The sight already has you drooling but just as your husband starts to drive, he tells you to eat up and that he packed it in case you or Seo Ah get hungry.

You don’t know what's gotten into you today but that’s the second time you feel something painful in your chest before it’s quickly soothed. For a moment you think you can hear something you can’t quite remember, but it’s there. It’s strange, it leaves you melancholic but just as fast as it comes, it goes. 

________

Thankfully, the traffic wasn’t as bad as it was half an hour ago. So when Mingyu parks the car, you have fifteen minutes before the fireworks start. He gets out of the car and jogs over to the passenger seat, casting you a playful warning glare when he sees you start to unlock the door. You laugh and even if you insist that opening the car door yourself isn’t a big deal, he tells you he wants to do it for you. Over the years together, you’ve learned you can never argue with that reasoning of his.

He picks up your daughter with one hand before helping you out with the other. This time you stand your ground and hold onto the baby bag when he reaches for it. He’d be pouting for a few minutes but it was an expression you never minded. 

The autumn air is cold when you step out, the evening skies clear of clouds which will make for a wonderful canvas for the fireworks. You secure Seo Ah’s beanie, quietly telling her not to remove it because of the cold. Miraculously she listens with an incoherent, “Okay, eomma.”

Mingyu smirks, kissing her cheek before mumbling, “That’s another thing you got from me, hm? You’re a sucker for your eomma?” 

You shake your head in amusement and reach up to properly tuck his beanie over his ears. “Wonder what else she can take after you, she’s literally your carbon copy.”

He shoots you a toothy grin, cheeks flushed from the cold before he engulfs your hand in his free one, “You tell me.”

You hum, glancing between your daughter and husband as you begin your leisurely pace towards the riverside. “It’s very obvious what she takes after you, love. But I can tell you what she doesn’t have.”

“Shoot.”

“For one, your clumsiness, which says a lot by the way considering she’s just a toddler. Thank goodness.”

“Hey! I’m-”

“Your hyperactivity.”

“Well.”

“It’s too early to tell but I do think she’s going to be introverted.”

Mingyu nods in agreement.

“Finally, she’s not as sulky as you.”

As if to further prove your point, he tosses your hand away and stomps his feet. His brows are furrowed and lips jutted out much like he did back at the kitchen. You laugh at the sight of a six foot man in his puffer jacket, throwing a tantrum that the child in his arm would most likely be doing. “Are you telling me what she doesn’t get from me or are you bullying me?”

Your laughter rings louder as you step closer and wrap your hands around his arm, “Yes.”

“Yes to what?”

You don’t answer, grinning happily as you drag him to your destination. He huffs, a cloud of his breath drifting through the cold air that has Seo Ah gasping in awe and observing her father’s lips to wait for more.

“I’ll tell you what she does take from you,” he grumbles, “Your bullying.”

“Mm, she gets that from her twelve uncles, too.” 

“Ah, I’ve taken a hard L in life.”

“Wha-...? Kim Mingyu, stop, ew, that’s just cringey.”

This time, he chuckles along with you and you hear the distant murmurs of the crowd waiting for the fireworks. Seo Ah’s stubby fingers reach for another puff of air that leaves Mingyu’s lips and you coo at her curiosity. Mingyu grins once he realizes what his daughter is doing, purposefully breathing bigger puffs of air for her to chase. She’s squealing before grasping her father’s cheeks, “Appa, ‘gain. Ah-gain!”

Ever spoiled, Mingyu easily gives in as her hands wiggle in the air and eagerly goes back to her dad’s cheeks.

“I’ll tell you something else she takes from you,” you eye her stubby fingers and Mingyu groans knowing what you will say.

“Don’t say po-”

“Potato fingers.”

He pokes his tongue through his cheek, rolling his eyes then bumping your hip with his. You continue your walk while he grumbles to your child, “Your eomma is so mean, she’s so lucky I love her.”

Seo Ah squeals when he nuzzles her cheek with the tip of his cold nose. They have strikingly matching grins and you can’t wait for the day when your daughter’s older and you wonder whether she will bear the same fangs like her father.

The odd sensation in your chest returns, but you don’t dwell on it. Instead you breathe deeply, and lean against Mingyu’s shoulder when you’ve both found the perfect spot to watch the fireworks. Seo Ah peers at you curiously, her fingers patting your hair as she does.

You smile and close your eyes as the first firework whistles through the night skies of Seoul.

“I am lucky, indeed.”

________

You’ve been home about two hours ago now. Seo Ah’s fast asleep in her crib adjacent to your bed with your husband. She’s tuckered out from the day and the thrill of seeing pretty fireworks for the first time. Mingyu’s in the kitchen while you’re curled up on your side of the bed, hair still damp from your shower. You’re staring fondly at your baby girl’s dozing figure while you deal with the foreign sensation in your chest that had returned when Mingyu told you he’d be back. He just needed to check the locks and defrosted the meat for tomorrow’s breakfast. 

It doesn’t necessarily feel sad, but it does. Yet while you try to figure out what’s making you sad while you go through the scenes of your day, you also feel happy. Nothing had upset you. Nothing out of the ordinary had happened. You just felt hyper aware today for some reason.

You replay your day for the fifth time in your head as you figure it out. 

Today was the fireworks festival, Mingyu had suggested going together with Seo Ah despite it being a weekday night. You normally discourage outings in the evenings of weekdays but he told you it would be a fun family time. 

“Besides, Seo Ah loves pretty colors,” he had reasoned. “And you love walks in the park! It’s a win win.”

“And you?” 

He tilts his head in confusion but he answers with utmost sincerity, “Me? Well, I’m just happy to see you both happy.”

You wonder if maybe the odd feeling stemmed from something at work but nothing stressful had happened today. You wonder if it was how you had to wait longer for your bus. You wonder if its the cold. You wonder if it's because Mingyu forgot to put spam in your kimbap. Yet nothing comes up to justify the sadness you feel, even then those reasons were too small for you to be carrying all the way to your sleep.

So instead of thinking of what makes you feel so melancholic, you think about what made you happy. Instantly, you find yourself smiling. This morning, almost every morning, Mingyu beats you to your alarm clock. He got up and made you breakfast and made a mini pancake for your daughter with banana slices for the eyes and raisins for the smile. It worked up Seo Ah’s appetite and it had done wonders to your mood to giggle at the smiley face, telling him it reminded you of the movie Coraline. When he drops you off at work and Seo Ah to daycare before heading to his own job, he gives you an exaggerated “mwah!” to his goodbye kiss. Throughout the day, you exchange curt updates and he never misses the chance to send you an ‘unflattering’ selfie of himself taken from below his desk with a kissy face. He’s still so handsome, no matter the angle. The traffic and exasperation you felt did not amount to the giddiness you felt when Mingyu sent you that selfie of himself and your daughter. Even more so when you arrive home and everything you had been worried about had been taken care of. Seo Ah’s dressed, fed, and your husband even packed something for you to eat on the way. 

It’s nothing out of the ordinary. The way Mingyu is so attentive to you and your little family is something he’s consistent with. Anytime you appreciate him for it, he always seems taken a back and confused before he grins and kisses you.

“What for? I love you and Seo Ah. Besides, that’s what you do for your family right?” 

His words from back then and the realization that today was the fireworks festival begin to strike something deep within you. 

You understand your feelings all at once and a little too quickly that you don’t realize you’re closing your eyes to keep yourself from crying.

You had been raised harshly, and your father had been distant for most of your life. As you grew older, you understood why they raised you the way they did. You understand the sternness of their upbringing and the authoritarian way they grew up that passed on to how they raised you. 

You had never asked for much, as young as you were, you were sensitive and receptive towards your family’s situation. Being a housewife and seamstress while raising two kids was not easy for your mother back then. The overwhelming need to make ends meet and make sure her children were raised right with the absence of their father gave her no sense of time to just pause and be warm. Your mother was stern, quick, straight to the point, and would slap your palms with a ruler when you answered your math questions incorrectly. Fear of her made you distance yourself from her. Your father had been away for work most days and nights. Your mother tells you it's because he’s working hard for your future. At a point you had cried and sobbed that you only wanted your father not money, that earned you a hard slap and a scolding of your ungratefulness. You never bring it up again. 

When your father had a week off, you heard excited chatter amongst your friends about the fireworks festival. Almost every girl tells them how high and mighty they felt sitting atop their father’s shoulders as the fireworks bloomed across the sky. You wanted that too. So excitedly, you suggested it over dinner.

Your father only looks at you, “Why? It’s a school night. You need to be up early. You can watch it on TV anyway.”

He completely missed your point, but you don’t explain any further. You know he was only thinking in a practical sense, but to you it only mattered to have that experience with him. You shut your windows close, draw the curtains and tuck your head into your pillow so you don’t hear the booms of the fireworks outside.

You never blamed them. You knew why, you understood how hard it had been for them. They raised you, fed you, made  sure you were warm and sacrificed their own comforts for yours. There was nothing to grieve over nor was it ever enough to call “mommy issues” or “daddy issues.” They were your parents, and to this day, without any warmth in their voice and touch, they loved you in the only ways they knew how. Sending you banchan, offering to take Seo Ah during some weekends, scolding you before teaching you how to tend to your houseplants, and even gifting Mingyu an apron hand stitched by your mom because they knew you weren’t as gifted as he was in the kitchen.

Still, you think, you can grieve over the experiences you wanted but not granted simply because of your situation then.

Mingyu must think you’re asleep when he comes into the room because he pulls the comforter over you and pads over to Seo Ah’s crib, checking if she’s tucked in warmly and that the heater was not in an uncomfortable position in the room. You lay still, culminating your thoughts as he crawls under the covers and draws your back to his chest. He leans over to kiss your temple, mumbling an “I love you,” before lying back down.

You then twist in his arms and snuggle into his chest, breathing him in deeply, the scent of the fabric conditioner and his shower gel enough to calm you. Still, the feelings in your chest are going to burst at the seams, you feel sad, content, warm, and calm all at once.

“Mingyu,” you mumble, raspier than expected.

“Hm? You’re still awake?”

You nod against his skin, trying your hardest to make sure your voice isn’t too thick with emotion. You feel his big hands run up and down your spine and you close your eyes, not willing to have to sit up for this conversation.

“What’s on your mind, honey?” he whispers, knowing you better than you can ever comprehend.

“I…” you start, “I honestly don’t know what to start.”

This makes him tense up just a little as he attempts to pull away to look at you but you refuse, wrapping yourself tightly against his body. Understanding your need to be as close to him as possible he relents, tucking you further into his chest. 

“Let’s start with, how are you feeling?”

“Sad…but not exactly sad either. I’m happy, I’m content, and I am so glad we got to do this with Seo Ah.”

You know you sound confusing, you can tell by the hum in your husband’s voice. He keeps quiet and lets you continue, running his fingers through your hair.

“Thank you, ‘Gyu,” you mutter, voice betraying you just a little, “I am glad you brought us to see the fireworks.” 

You feel the press of his lips against your forehead, it's slow, long, and gentle that you can feel the slight chapped state of them.

“Of course, baby, I was happy we went too.”

You allow Mingyu to finally pull away just slightly so he could duck his head to kiss you fully. It’s gentle, nothing more than a simple peck but he stays there, like he’s trying to commit it to memory. When you both part, you immediately miss his lips on yours but he rests his forehead against yours, gazing at you tenderly through heavy lids.

“But that doesn’t tell me why you’re sad.”

You contemplate for a little bit, before lifting your hand to cup his cheek. Your thumb traces over the faint freckles across his cheek bone, brushing against one on the tip of his nose and jaw, feeling the stubbled skin there. Mingyu waits for you patiently, until you look up at him, your eyes shiny with unshed tears that it startles him. But then you smile, reassuring him that maybe you weren’t sad at all. You gaze into his eyes with utmost adoration because his eyes were the kind that  twinkles, the kind that never lies, the kind that sparkles at any kind of emotion he feels. That’s one of the many things you’re happy you’re daughter takes after—his eyes.

Because Mingyu had the kindest eyes you’ve ever seen.

“It’s just,” you start breathlessly, “Seeing you and Seo Ah, heals some part of me I didn’t know was hurt.”

That’s it. Mingyu, your husband, was also the man you chose to be the father of your daughter. 

You didn’t think of it so consciously that time–that choosing a partner also meant choosing the father of your child. But boy, are you glad it was still Mingyu. Seeing him being a father was healing your inner child too. And for Seo Ah, for yourself—Mingyu was just it.

Your husband smiles so tenderly and he kisses you again.

“As much as you bully me, you give me too much credit, baby. I love you and I love our little angel. I’d give you everything I have and everything I didn’t.”

You tuck yourself under his chin so you don’t cry. Still, it doesn’t stop Mingyu from loving you and telling you with every pass of his palm on your skin, every beat of his heart against your chest, and every morning where he wakes up and does it all over again.

a/n: i hope everyone finds a partner that heals their inner child in some way. and if there's anything i want you to take away, and take this subjectively, its that we do not have to villainize anyone who had not given us our needs in the past. Theres so many layers behind each person, need, and situation. Again, subjectively. If i mistagged anything, or any concern let me know!

photo sources: pinterest

healing comes in small doses (iv): better half

pairing: husband! dad! kim mingyu x afab! mom! reader

healing comes in small doses masterlist

synopsis: while you know how mingyu heals parts of you, you didn't know was hurt--he learns that healing goes both ways.

w.c: 8.1k

tags: npr, non idol!au, domestic fluff, established relationship, married life, flashbacks to pre-dating, dad!mingyu, mentions of food, gendered terms, terms of endearment (baby, honey,  eomma, appa), soft mingyu, fluff, flirting from co workers but mingyu avoids it smoothly like chachacha

warnings: a lil suggestive (i mean they're married), and none that i know of but do let me know!

a/n: the story structure is pretty cliche with the present day to flashbacks. i'm personally not satisfied because ive been working on this for months and its not capturing the way i envisioned it to be. i've had 3 drafts and rewrites of this but still, i hope the message i wanted to get across is there! mingyu gets the babygirl treatment this time.

as always, i thrive on tags, reblogs, and comments!<3

“Hyung, how’d you know noona was the ‘one’?”

It was an innocent, curious, and drunken question his younger friend Chan had asked him one barbecue night out with the boys. But the question sticks with Mingyu, and worms its way into his subconscious till the end of the week.

He mulls over it once again one regular Wednesday night with Seo Ah sound asleep in your room and with you sat by the kitchen island, chin propped up on your folded arms. It was not that he didn't know the answer to that question. It was that there were too many answers and memories that bulldoze through his forefront that it was difficult to give just one solid answer.

You're watching Mingyu put away the last of the dishes. You had just finished picking up the toys and mess in the living room and kept your husband company before heading to bed.

His tank top stretches deliciously over his shoulder blades and trapezius as he works that you wonder if it’s too soon to give Seo Ah a little sibling.

Mingyu had just cut his hair, way shorter than he intended it to be. He had seemed a little shy and unsure when he had arrived home earlier, offering you a tightlipped smile than his easy grin. You were stunned, paused at the hallway as you eye your husband's new look. Then you had skipped over to him when he tucks in a little deeper into his collar. You pepper his face with kisses, cooing about how handsome he looked. The shorter strands of hair taper into a clean fade and it accentuates his features beautifully. He finally giggles before releasing a breath of relief then squeezing you into a grateful embrace.

Seo Ah, however, had not taken well into her appa's new hair, refusing to let go of you when you had tried passing her to him. It resulted to him sulking the whole evening and you had to assure and comfort him multiple times that toddlers simply have difficulty adapting to change.

Your husband glances over his shoulder, noticing your dazed stare. He sends you a fanged smile and wink before he reaches for the refrigerator.

"Since Seo Ah's sound asleep this early, why don't we treat ourselves to some ice cream?"

You can't help the fond smile pulling at your lips when Mingyu pulls out a familiar tub of your favorite flavor. You notice the giddy sparkle in his eyes when he begins digging for two spoons.

And when he offers you the first bite then pecks your forehead affectionately, you wonder out loud with a blissful sigh,

"What did I ever do to deserve you?"

The question was intended to be rhetorical, all out of sheer love and contentment with these simple moments you share with your husband.

But he remembers Chan’s question once again. There were some moments during your relationship how you’d express specific things he’s done for you that made you feel so loved. When you do, it makes him flustered, sometimes confused why you were always so so grateful for the little things he does for you. Why wouldn’t he? He loves you! But he figures it was your way of letting him know you see him, and it brings him so much warmth and reassurance to know that you pay close attention to him as he does you.

He realizes that was one other area you were better at than he was. You were quicker to process and you had a way with expressing your thoughts through words. Mingyu on the other hand settles for his careful and attentive nature to your every need, and services you. It was his way to show his love. But then…he figured he can show you in more ways than one—right?

So, he ponders on it as he sleeps, with you tucked into his shoulder. He skims through his fondest memories of you and moments where he had fallen even harder for you.

-

"Oh, Mingyu-ssi, did you get a haircut?" one of his co-workers, Mr. Lee, notes when the said man enters the coffee room where he finds three of his workmates taking a break.

"Hm?" Mingyu runs a big hand over his head, feeling the freshly trimmed ends, "Uh, yeah. It's long overdue."

"Looks great!"

"Thanks," Mingyu smiles, pulling out a paper cup to pour his coffee into.

"Yeah, but I really liked your long hair though," one of his female co-workers pouts, her eyes lingering on the back of his head.

Without turning around, Mingyu just lets out a soft 'oh?'

She leans against the same counter she's in, "Yeah, looked really rugged and sexy."

Before she could reach a manicured hand towards his head, Mingyu smoothly intercepts by moving towards the coffee machine.

"I just never really had the time," he shrugs nonchalantly, "Besides, my wife loves it like this."

He unconsciously smiles at the memory of your surprised gasp, red cheeks, and irresistible pecks when he first arrived home with a fresh cut yesterday.

"She shouldn't be complaining though," his second female co-worker sighs, "I bet you'd look handsome with any cut."

Feeling already uncomfortable at their subtle advances, Mingyu only laughs but still feels the need to defend your honor some way.

"I never said she never complained, just said she loved it," he quips, "The only one who complained was my daughter though. She couldn't recognize me at all and took a while to get used to it."

Mr. Lee laughs, "Ah, she's just like my Eun Chan when he was a toddler and I shaved off my mustache. He cried each time he saw me! They’re too young to accept changes just as quickly."

"You're right," Mingyu smiles with a nod, "Now, if you excuse me."

He nods at them curtly before making a quick exit.

Before he leaves, he catches the beginnings of their conversation.

"Aish, you girls are so shameful. The guy's already married--with a kid!"

"He's not stopping us though..."

"What do you mean? He does! In the nicest way possible."

Mingyu shakes his head, taking a sip of his coffee before making his way to one of the empty seats of the cafeteria to take his break instead.

It’s nothing new to him. Kim Mingyu is a nice man, well mannered, and caring. It was something often taken advantage of. In fact, during the early stages of your relationship others wondered whether you had manipulated him or taken advantage of his kindness given your strong personality. Later on, others shifted from that perspective into absolute awe of how well and how loudly he doted and cared for you that they wonder what could you have possibly done to top that. Kim Mingyu was made to love, his heart big enough to cater to people special to him a designated spot in there. His love is loud, blatant, and encompassing in contrast to your quiet, calm, and nurturing nature that is oh-so-special to him.

It never really bothered you the way the rest perceive your relationship but he definitely was. Because while others saw your husband as a man that fit perfectly in every gap and space in your life that had yet to be seen, you had filled the emptiness in his life no one bothered wondering about.

He runs his hand over his head once more, the early conversation led him to reminiscing back in your high school days. Way back when you barely recognized his growing crush on you, and back when you only saw him as one of your annoying seniors. You didn't know it then, but you had planted yourself into his life earlier than you intended to.

-

"What the hell is that?"

"Did your barber fit a bowl over your head then cut under it?"

The guffaws echoed loudly from the classroom to the hallway.

Mingyu was just 17 when he first tried getting a haircut on his own without his father present. It had been an exciting feat for him to be independent in his own silly way. However, it had quickly gone downhill the moment he knew the barber wasn't cutting his hair the way he asked him to. But in true Mingyu fashion, he felt too shy and scared he'd come off rude the moment he asks him to stop or adjust the cut.

Mingyu just laughs, unconsciously tucking himself into the collar of his uniform. Jeonghan, his senior rubs his head teasingly, "It looks like a helmet."

He already hated looking at himself in the mirror this morning, and somehow the teasing from first period to the sixth had not abated. It progressively makes him feel worse and self-conscious that he had pulled up his hoodie from under his school blazer over his head. But it was against school dress code, and his History teacher promptly asked him to pull down his hoodie followed by detention.

"Whoaa," Soonyoung, another senior does a double take when he arrives, "Did you do this with the kitchen scissors?"

The boys burst into a chorus of laughter, nudging Mingyu's shoulders as the tips of his ears grow increasingly red. He ignores the bite of irritation in his skull, opting to just chuckle along so he doesn't destroy the mood with a snap.

As long as his friends were happy, at the expense of his humiliation, he'll be okay. He'll get over it eventually.

"Cut it out," a calm voice suddenly reaches them from one of the few desks over. They all turn their heads towards you, a junior, brave enough to scold her seniors. Your chin is propped on your palm as your gaze shifts from his senior friends. You tilt your head over to Mingyu, eyes scrutinizing his new bowl-cut. It makes the boy even more self-conscious and worried that whatever his crush might say will forever scar his-

"I like it, it makes you look...youthful," you say nonchalantly but the small smile you send him was sincere as the look in your eyes. You then raise a brow towards his friends, "I’d like to see you rock it. “

The boys stare at you in shock. Normally, they wouldn't let up without a fight especially with someone younger than them, much less a girl. You hold your ground, nervous as hell but you can't help but speak up. Not when the tall lanky boy seems to shrink each time you pass him through the hallway. The boys let your words sink in and Seungcheol finally gets up, "Yeah, guess so. Let's cut him some slack."

His seniors proceed to carry on a different topic. Yet even as you looked away, focused on the view outside and the airplane flying overhead, Mingyu's eyes remain trained on the back of your head. His cheeks are warm, not with embarrassment but with an emotion he can't name. Seventeen-year-old Mingyu had yet to learn standing up for himself when he was uncomfortable. Still, you definitely showed him even the feelings he hadn't expressed were worth standing up for--he was worth standing up for.

-

Mingyu was kindhearted and gentle to a fault. Ironically, he couldn't give himself the same kindness for the sake of putting other's happiness before his own.

You didn't know it then, but it had been one of the most significant things you've ever done for him--being the boundary, the "no" to his hesitance of standing up for himself. In instances where he felt small or made to feel small, you never berated him for it. Instead, you’d be that bigger person ready to fend for him or help him regain the power and confidence he needs. You are his better half, filling in the gap when he couldn’t.

Funny enough, standing up for this six footer was not limited to only standing up against anyone who dared take advantage of his gentle soul.

You stood up and showed up for him for the most ridiculous reasons too.

-

You hadn’t seen each other since high school, and the train station from his hometown when he headed for Seoul was the last he saw of you. Your short texts and catch ups dwindling to nothing when life got too busy and newer people occupied his social circle. He thought of you from time to time, especially in your favorite drinks at a 7/11, when someone in your height, build, and hair walks past him in campus, or sometimes even unprompted. He thinks of messaging you one of these days. But he doesn’t, opting to simply watch your occasional Instagram stories and liking them in hopes that you notice his ‘online presence’. Mingyu was rarely shy but you bring out the side of him that he settles for making himself visible online.

You were both fresh out of university when you had both reunited once again after four years. Never had Mingyu guessed your reunion would be in the quaint little flat he lived in.

Mingyu’s crush on you had only rekindled (too quickly---to his embarrassment) when he discovers that you both lived in the same building. After a quick morning run, he noticed the moving truck and a girl struggling with carrying a box up the stairs when he offers his help. It’s nearly comical how you both gape at each other and stare. You looked like you were about to brush it off, pretend you’re seeing things because you didn’t want to embarrass yourself and assume this handsome man with a well-defined torso was once your cute, long limbed, clumsy schoolmate. But Mingyu recognizes you, he follows your Instagram after all and your rare self-portraits did not give justice to just how stunning you were in person. You had both grown into features that were distinctly yourselves and even more refined.

His face lights up, bright grin spreading across his pink cheeks as he says your name and reconnects with you.

It must be fate, he thought, it can’t be just a coincidence he’s reunited with his high school crush after so long.

He’s even more sure you were destined to be near him again when it took him a full thirty-minute pep talk to get over his embarrassment and text you to come over.

See, if he had texted you with the intent to hang out, he wouldn’t need that long before caving in.

No… he asked if you could come over to get rid of the insect that had settled into his washed shoes drying out in his balcony. He was desperate, he needed those specific pair, because they were his lucky shoes and he had a big interview in an hour and a half.

And when his doorbell rings, he starts spiraling into panic, regret, and shame. What if he disturbed you? What if you found his fear for these four-legged crawlies childish? Even if you didn’t what if you thought his notion for his lucky pair of shoes was foolish?

He’s ready to greet your unimpressed scowl once he twists the doorknob to let you in.

Instead, you offer him a soft greeting, and he notices you were still in your sleeping shorts and pajama shirt. It gives him a whiplash, seeing your drowsy eyes and crooked smile, seemingly comfortable enough to let him see you in this state. Then realizing that you had probably just woken up when he had texted you.

He feels even worse, ashamed he’s letting that little green monster sitting on the crevice of his shoe inconvenience you as well.

“Hey,” you say softly.

Mingyu sputters a bit, before ushering you inside. You slip off your slides and leave them on the doorway while Mingyu offers you a pair of house slippers. He apologizes when they’re way too big for you, considering that he’s mostly had the boys over. Still, you just huff out a laugh and shuffle into his living space.

“Nice place,” you comment, noting how well kept it was and tastefully decorated with family photos and polaroids of his dog.

“Thanks,” he rubs the back of his neck with a sheepish grin, “Hey…sorry, I probably disturbed you. It looks like I might have woken you up.”

You wave your hand, self-consciously tugging on your shirt.

The tall man notices and immediately corrects himself, “No, no—you look fine! You’re beautiful—uh fine, I mean it’s not like you have to— It’s just considering the time and your pajamas…”

He’s rambling, he realizes when you tilt your head in amusement. He clears his throat while you’re making your way towards his balcony, “It’s fine, I didn’t have anything planned till the afternoon so.”

Mingyu suddenly starts to wonder what your daily life looks like? Did you develop new hobbies? Did you like to stay indoors or did you often go out? He watches how the sunlight hits your hair as you peer through the glass of his balcony. It made him feel warm, watching you in the early morning light, pajamas, comfortable, and soft with sleep.

“So, where’s your little intruder, hm?”

He shakes his head off the sudden thoughts before looking over your head and pointing to the pair of black chucks sitting on his stool outside. Lo and behold, there peaked a pair of green antennae and prickly legs. Considering that he lived on the 13th floor, he could only guess that ‘thing’ came with his newly bought boston fern plant to add to his growing collection.

“Converse? To an interview?” you ask as you start unlatching his door.

“…yeah?”

You raise a brow before opening your palm towards him, “Give me a cup and a newspaper or any paper you have please.”

Mingyu’s shoulder bumps into his doorway and his hips collide into his kitchen counter by the time he hands you your request. You smile at him endearingly, noting how he had not outgrown his clumsiness.

He jumps when you casually pick up the shoe with the critter inside while relieved that he had washed his shoes so you wouldn’t be bothered by his dirty shoe. It’s comically large in your hand.

“It’s a mantis,” you say before tapping the sole of the shoe so the insect falls into the cup. It slips inside, struggling to get on its feet with the limited space before you cover the top with a newspaper.

“Do you want me to put it back in the plants or-“

“No!” Mingyu quickly backs up as you make your way inside with the mantis. Chuckling, you walk inside to place it on the coffee table while you deliberate what to do with it.

“Thanks for doing this,” he scratches the back of his head, “It must be silly to have you come here for this.”

“Don’t worry about it,” you say with a wave of your hand, “You’ve hated bugs since we were high school and you said those were your lucky pair. What kind of friend would I be if I didn’t help you?”

He flashes you a toothy grin and you return his smile, gesturing to the paper and cup behind you.

“Now you know what to do if this happens again. Nothing a cup and some newspaper can’t fix!”

Honestly, if it meant seeing you all comfortable and soft like this in the mornings, Mingyu doesn’t think he’d want to take care of it himself.

Then came a pause. What now? Mingyu didn’t want to just keep the thing there forever nor did he want to send you away after all that—that was the last thing on his mind and if it weren’t for the interview he’d have later, he would have offered to take you out.

“I-“ he clears his throat when comes out higher than expected, “I mean, did…did you have breakfast yet? There’s fresh rice and I’m just about to heat up last night’s leftovers.”

You suddenly seemed shy, fiddling with a loose thread of your shorts. Judging by the look on your face, he was sure you were thinking of a polite way to decline. He’d be lying if he didn’t feel disappointed but he wouldn’t push. It’s been years since you last saw each other after all, and you were alone in his unit. You only had a handful of quick conversations since you moved in three weeks ago.

Suddenly, your stomach grumbles---loud. Then, whatever thin veil of friends to strangers to friends, tears open with your embarrassed giggles and his surprised chuckles. He ushers you to his kitchen and he can’t help the blooming feeling of wanting you there often.

Often comes to soon when the mantis had been quickly forgotten then missing when he returned home that afternoon.

-

“Ah, ah, ah! Aish…”

“Aigoo, Mingyu-yah, again?” Jeonghan scolds when he peers over his cubicle to see what caused his co-worker to hiss so loudly.

There’s a coffee quickly staining his powder blue shirt and slacks from the paper cup he’s just knocked over. Thankfully the beverage had gone lukewarm after half an hour but Mingyu’s pouting when he realizes that he’s run out of tissues too. Jeonghan clicks his tongue, disappearing briefly before reappearing into the sulking younger man’s cubicle with a box of tissues.

“Thanks,” Mingyu mutters before hurriedly pressing the tissues into the growing stains.

“Ah, this is the third time this week,” his co-worker points out with amusement, helping him out by righting the paper cup and wiping the desk. “I pity (Y/N) for the laundry you leave.”

“Yah, I do the laundry too,” Mingyu whines. Well, sometimes, especially when your insistence on sorting fabric types confuses him but Jeonghan doesn’t need to know that.

He laughs, “Right, right.”

Mingyu lets his words sit for a while, because it was true. His clumsiness that results to his stained clothes were far worse than what you had to deal with your toddler. He belatedly remembers the joke you made of Seo Ah not inheriting her appa’s clumsiness to your relief. And honestly, he was relieved too. She wouldn’t have to live through the embarrassment that follows after a clumsy spill.

He couldn’t help it that his limbs were just longer and he was much larger than what the average space would accommodate. Most days, his clumsiness not only aggravated him but others too. He doesn’t blame them though, a lot of the times a spill, a broken plate, dropped lunch boxes, or scattered books were more frustrating than funny.

Still, you loved and taught him to love the things that he hates about himself.

-

Early on in your dating, he had discovered an endearing habit you’ve come to develop because of him. It both made him feel giggly like a schoolgirl but embarrassed as well.

At his every turn around a table, shelf, or cabinet, your hand quickly finds the edge of a sharp corner. Or how your hands instinctively reach out in front of you at his sudden jerks as if he might fall or drop something. He later discovers you keep a mini first aid kit in a pouch that fits in any bag you have while you go on dates. And that you left him aloe vera gel with an ice pack his refrigerator just in case he accidentally burns himself while cooking or bumps his head on the lower cabinets.

It's sweet, it’s very considerate of you and he finds himself giggling and blushing when you do those things for him. Mingyu often models the same hand on the edge precaution when you round a corner. Fortunately, you never have to worry about bumping into things You were always cautious and careful. Yet sometimes he wishes he could have some very cool and manly scenario in which he protects you, like a knight in shining armor and his damsel in distress.

Except you were no damsel in distress.

But he did cause you some stress with his clumsy nature.

However, at the moment, when you rush into your living room at the sound of a loud crash, he can’t read the expression on your face to tell if this was your normal stress. You remain uncharacteristically silent as you stared at the shattered mug at the edge of your carpet. He’s wordless too, mouth dry, opening and closing like a fish out of water.

He just wanted to do something for you today, after the kind of week you’ve had. The kind that had pushed you to call him during your lunch break to release a frustrated rant. He thought he’d prepare you your favorite drink, in your favorite mug while you both cuddle up to some movie or board games. He was even ready to propose plans to go on a trip with you.

The liquid seeps into your pristine carpet and Mingyu just wishes the mug had just landed on the carpet itself so the fall would have been cushioned.

A stained carpet, he can fix with just a quick dial of the best carpet cleaner in town. But a mug, handmade from your grandmother, was something way beyond his control. An apology won’t cut it either.

A ghost of irritation crosses your features. The man doesn’t know what to say, heartbeat pounding loud against his eardrums when he notices how your eyes turn glassy. You all but kneel by your broken mug without a word, quickly blinking back tears. Mingyu swiftly crouches, protectively holding your wrists away from the sharp shards, his eyes wide in desperation.

“(Y/N), don’t. You could cut yourself,” he feels a soft tug of resistance from your hands. He swallows tentatively, loosening his hold but you don’t pull away. “I’m sorry. So terribly sorry. I just wanted to-“

“Stop. Not now, Gyu. I’m—” your voice rasps, and you swallow the pathetic whimper that was bound to tear from your throat. “Sorry…just—"

“Don’t be…You have every right to be upset…” Mingyu whispers, tentatively drawing a tender circle on your skin.

“Let me clean it up?” he offers, but you don’t respond, seemingly regulating your breathing with your gaze cast downwards.

“Do you need space, baby?” he releases a breathy exhale, “Do you want me to leave?”

It sounded smaller than he’d like and that’s exactly what he wishes he’d be like. Smaller, softer, careful not like some long limbed, clumsy, giant.

You take a deep inhale as he waits. He wonders if you were going to scold him, tell him to get lost. It would hurt him but he knew there was only so much you can take after the week you’ve gone through and the fact that you would come home to your soiled carpet and a fractured mug with great sentimental value would have him crying too.

You look up at him, eyes red-rimmed and tired. The man feels his own face crumple at the sight of you, exhausted and sad. You gaze at him a little longer before your shoulders sag and you sigh. Your eyes gloss over again and your lips tremble as you ask him quietly,

“Will you hold me?”

Suddenly, it’s not about the ruined mug anymore. Mingyu all but eagerly lifts you up into his arms, the weight of you spent and sagging against his hold. It saddens him but comforts him to feel you so close again. He drags you into his lap, tucking you into his chest and wrapping his arms tightly around you. The mug lays forgotten on the floor, the growing stain the last of both your worries.

“I’m still upset,” you mutter into his collarbone, “But space from you is the last thing I need.”

Your voice warbles, and it makes him draw you even closer. It’s the first time he’s seen you this emotional and he slowly realizes that it breaks him too. Even then, he’s content to know you found safety in him.

“I’m so sorry, darling, I know that isn’t enough to make up for this,” he whispers, pressing a kiss on top of your head and dragging his palm across your spine. “I just wanted to make this week a little better for you. I promise, I’ll figure out how to piece your grandmother’s mug back for you.”

“I know, Gyu,” you sniffle, uncharacteristically loose with your sentiments when you say, “But I’d be happy with just a hug from you.”

“Really?”

You lift a hand to tug his arm closer to you, and in spite of the situation, it makes him smile a little when you do.

“Really, Gyu, I love how safe you make me feel.”

As the words leave your mouth, Mingyu decides that maybe he doesn’t hate being the long-limbed, clumsy giant. Not when he gets to hold you like this, arms and chest encompassing your form as you curl deeper into his chest. You take deep breaths, quieted by the beat of his heart and soothed by the warmth of his body. After a few minutes of just holding you and rocking back and forth, Mingyu feels the lazy press of your lips against his collarbone before promptly falling asleep.

His legs are numb but he was relieved you’ve finally had the chance to rest. Carefully he lifts you up, attempting to settle you into the couch. However, you groggily pull him closer, easily convincing him to leave the mess for when you both wake up.

A few hours later, Mingyu does figure out a way to restore your broken mug when he finds there’s a kintsugi artist just out of town. It was your first trip together as a couple followed after many more.

-

It started raining half an hour before Mingyu clocks out, the clouds from the glass windows of their floor are dark and heavy with rain and thunder. He immediately picks up his phone to call you, knowing you’d get off in a few and let you know he’d pick you up after Seo Ah. He’d hate to have you wait out in the cold and he doesn’t think you’d pack an umbrella today.

You had both agreed that taking the train or bus was way more practical for you since your workplace is in the opposite direction of the daycare and Mingyu’s work. As much as Mingyu insisted he didn’t mind waking up earlier to accommodate dropping you off work, your sense of practicality was stronger than the cutest pout he could muster. Still, you wouldn’t resist him on most days he was up and ready to drop you and your child off.

It only takes three rings before you pick up.

“Hey, honey,” you chirp into the phone and he recognizes a familiar tune in the background and faint babbling.

“Hi baby,” he smiles at the sound of your voice, “Are you at daycare?”

“Mhm, got off work early was about to call you actually.”

“That’s great, I was about to tell you that I’d pick you up on the way from daycare but I guess I’ll only make one stop. Do you think you could wait until I get off---actually, let me see if I could leave early.”

He hears you laugh, “It’s okay, babe, I don’t mind waiting. Seo Ah seems to want to show me what they’ve been up to today…Seo Ah-yah, wanna say hi to your appa?”

The babbling goes silent followed by your coos of encouragement. Mingyu’s bottom lip juts out.

“Is she still bitter over my hair cut?”

“Guess so~”

“She’s just three, she’s holding grudges way too early!” he whines.

You laugh and try again, “Baby, Appa’s starting to get sad. C’mon, say hi, appa! Just like that.”

After a beat of muffled silence, there’s a small hesitant, “…hi, Appa.”

It’s enough for her father to giggle as he imagines her pouting face, “Hello, Seo Ah-yah. I’ll see you and Eomma soon. I love you~”

The toddler doesn’t respond and you chirp into the phone, “Give her time, honey. You look dashing as ever.”

He lets out a dramatic sigh, “Alright then, I’ll see you soon, honey. I love you!”

“You too~”

“Hey, say it ba-“

The line cuts and Mingyu shakes his head in amusement, running his tongue across his teeth.

While you did stand up for him against people who crossed his boundaries, you did enjoy teasing him. It was in harmless fun and he would be lying if he said he didn’t like that playful edge to you.

-

Mingyu clicks his tongue in annoyance when he finds the lack of an umbrella in the car. So, he’s thankful for the old security guard holding a huge umbrella over you and his daughter while you walk to the car. Your husband unconsciously smiles when he sees you tucking Seo Ah closer to your chest to avoid the rain, your heels gracefully clicking against the wet pavement. Your child’s pudgy fingers poking through her baby blue wool sweater are clinging to your shirt, content with how she’s tucked beneath your chin. You greet him with smiling eyes as you approach the car and he grins right back.

The security opens the back door for you to settle Seo Ah into her car seat. Mingyu twists from his seat to reach over to squeeze his daughter’s hand, “Hi, baby! Did you have fun today?”

His daughter stares at him hesitantly, her big doe eyes blinking in scrutiny. You laugh as you lock her seatbelt and hand her one of the felt animals your mother made for her before closing the door and moving to the passenger seat. Mingyu frowns, “Seo Ah-ya, you’re breaking my heart. It’s me, your handsome appa.”

She says nothing, nor does her hand curl her father’s fingers. Instead, she busies herself with the felt-animals she scattered in the backseat earlier that day. Your husband sighs, squeezing her hand once before retreating.

You slide into the front seat, thanking the old guard before shutting the door. Instinctively, Mingyu leans over to lock your seatbelt over your body then catching you off guard with a sweet kiss to your lips. You smile against him, and he can smell the faint scent of your perfume and the rain.

“Hello, Gyu,” you sneak a quick peck to his nose as he pulls away. Then you raise a brow when you notice the stains on his shirt, “Aish, Kim Mingyu. Coffee this time? I just hope it wasn’t hot.”

He pouts, “Thankfully it wasn’t.”

You allow him a few minutes to shift the gears before he drives off the pick-up station.

“How was your day?”

“It was okay, nothing too crazy. Jeonghan-hyung was asking about you and Seo Ah, though. I think he misses her.”

“Aw, should we let him babysit one of these days? Invite him to dinner?”

“As long as Seungcheol-hyung is with him, yes.”

“Of course, or maybe even Junhui,” you hum, clasping his hand on your thigh, “You know, our options for babysitters are many.”

“You’re welcome.”

You grin broadly and squeeze Mingyu’s hand, knowing that your husband’s caring and friendly nature has earned him many friends for life. And in turn, they become yours too. You weren’t as outgoing as he was, so being adopted into his circle had you experiencing the fun and chaotic moments you didn’t get to have in university.

Your husband asks you about your day, and while you don’t have much to share he listens attentively, asking for smaller details like was the coffee machine ever fixed, or what animal was Mrs. Park’s flamboyant brooch today.

“The daycare is hosting an event soon and the children are going to be performing,” you inform him, “I got to take a peep at their dress rehearsals. They’re all so cute! They were all wearing banana costumes. Seo Ah noticed me over the window of the door that she just stops dancing and did her ‘shy tantrum.’ Miss Koh later said Seo Ah was being difficult with her costume which could be why she became shy.”

Mingyu chuckles at that, knowing exactly what the ‘shy tantrum’ looked like. Its one of the terms you both came up with watching Seo Ah’s non-verbal cues. She had the shy tantrum, sleepy tantrum, hungry tantrum, and the bored tantrum. They weren’t exactly tantrums considering the kind of quiet energy she had but you still called it that.The shy tantrum usually came out when her appa would insist on taking her photos while she’s busy playing or when she refuses to wear something she wasn’t fond of. She’d simply sit on the floor, eyes on the ground, and pout, refusing to acknowledge anything around her. Around you, however, she’d whine (something she definitely takes after her appa). The bored tantrum was the most entertaining, where she’d randomly just curl on the floor like one fluffy ball or even faceplant.

You giggle, glancing back at your daughter who’s gone suspiciously silent. Sure enough, the ear of her felt tiger hangs between her pink lips and her eyes are slowly blinking shut at the sound of the rain and the slow traffic. Mingyu smiles at her tuckered out form, “She’s really one sleepy baby during car rides, huh?”

You hum in agreement, “She must have been tired from all that dancing too.”

Traffic begins to slow even more as the heavy rain and higher demands for taxis rose. The drive continues on in silence while you occasionally glanced back to check on your daughter. When the car stops at a stoplight, you take this as a chance to reach over the back to cushion your daughter’s head properly. The toy falls off her mouth and she jerks once before smacking her lips and leaning into your touch. Mingyu watches through the rearview mirror fondly.

You’re just so beautiful to him in moments like these. He’s always found you pretty and you grow even more beautiful to him each year. When he tells you so, you snort and remind him how you looked in high school with your choppy bangs and certain phases but you’re glad you grew out of it. You told him once that you peaked right after university, having figured out your style and which haircuts were flattering to you. Now as a mom, your style had definitely adjusted.

Still, even with the changes to your body that came from having your daughter, it just makes him adore you more. The way you would literally give your body for him and your little family, dedicating yourself to loving and nurturing them.

As his wife, you’ve received praise and compliments from family, friends, and even strangers about how glowing you look. With flushed cheeks, you’d often respond with thanks and that it’s all because your husband takes good care of you. Mingyu knows that it’s all you, but he takes pride knowing that he has some part of it. After all, he loved taking care of you.

You were not the only one on the receiving end of these kinds of comments. Mingyu had always been outgoing but there’s a different joy about him when there was you. He leans into his vulnerability more openly, he’s somehow braver, and calmer as well. As someone raised to be a giver, you have given him so much that others easily overlooked.

“Man, the rain is crazy. The weather forecast just told us it would light rain today,” you sigh, leaning into the cold window and watch pedestrians dash through the sidewalks with their blazers or bags over their heads. “Those poor students,” you mumble when you notice some highschoolers in their drenched uniforms, hailing taxis.

Mingyu looks over to where you’re looking and hums in sympathy. But he then sees a couple huddled under a suit jacket, hobbling over to the bus stop. You see it too because you let out a soft, ‘awwww.’ Your husband smiles, recalling another fond memory as he lifts your hand to press a kiss on the back of your hand before placing one lingering kiss of adoration on your wedding ring.

-

Mingyu didn’t have much as he did now when you both got married. Still starting his 9-5 job, he still commuted and packed budget lunches for both of you. He didn’t have a car, and you moved into his one-bedroom unit, not the house you rented in now. While you both could afford something even wider and luxurious, you decided to be frugal about it. You were both saving up for a car and a bigger place once the prospect of having a family in the future were introduced into your conversations so it only made sense to live by your means. It was comfortable, cozy even with your presence leaving your own touch to the place—your home with him.

The disadvantages of not having a car, however, meant that Mingyu had to deal with the unpredictable weather during fall. And quite frankly, his lack of awareness of weather updates. So, when he’s off work and dark clouds hovered and the smell of incoming rain evades his senses, he’s thankful for the bus stop being right across his work building. However, he’s dreading the ten-minute walk he has to take from the bus stop to the flat.

Once he’s in the first bus, the rain does not begin with a drizzle. It comes in a strong downpour that Mingyu feels the cold even inside the safety of the bus. The man sighs, leaning against the railing he holds onto. He quickly shoots you a text, letting you know he got off work awhile back. He’s only happy his wife got home early today, otherwise he was sure that the umbrella you’ve most likely packed would not have protected you from the downpour. He imagines you cozied up by the window, or starting on dinner which he’ll no doubt insist on taking over once he arrives. Whatever you were doing now, he’s glad you’re warm and not in the same dilemma as he was.

You don’t respond to him as quickly as he’s used to. And he jogs away from the rain into the shade to wait for his last bus stop home. The droplets have already begun seeping through the shoulder pads of his jacket and he just resigns to the fact that he’d come home dripping, he hopes you wouldn’t be too upset with the water tracks on the floor.

The rain abates during his last stretch home, still pouring but not as heavy as it was fifteen minutes earlier. You still haven’t replied to him and he figures that you might have fallen asleep at the sound of the rain. Mingyu smiles at the thought, excited to come home and cozy up to you. He starts seeing familiar landmarks that tell him his final stop is just a minute away. He shrugs of his jacket, and secures his messenger bag across his chest with the intention to run with his jacket overhead.

But just as he presses the button to ring his stop, he notices a familiar figure jogging up to the bus stop with a large umbrella. He recognizes the fluffy pyjama pants and his university’s hoodie under the umbrella. Mingyu’s eyes are wide as he steps out of the bus and hobbles over to the shade. Sure enough, its you, out of breath, the edges of your pants damp and hanging over your Hello Kitty slides.

“Baby!” you breathe out, flushed and grinning.

“Honey,” Mingyu quickly pulls you to his side, absent mindedly kissing your head as he processes his surprise, “What are you doing here?”

“I saw your umbrella by the door, so I knew you didn’t-“ you wheeze and he rubs your back as you catch your breath, “You could get sick.”

‘But, baby, you didn’t have to do this for me,’ was what he wanted to say. ‘You didn’t have to go out the rain. It was my fault anyway.’

“Did you get wet?” you begin checking his clothes, relieved they were mostly some damp spots.

Mingyu remains uncharacteristically quiet, thinking of the many times he would just endure things because he was expected to and because people knew he could take care of himself. He worried that you would be upset when he’d come home tracking water all over the floor, or that he’d forgotten his umbrella. He had thought of quickly rushing to the shower, throw his laundry in the wash, and mop up whatever he’s left behind.

But here you were, taking care of him. It was a simple gesture, but it had erased all his initial worries about you getting upset for his health, the mess, and the fact that he didn’t pay attention to the weather forecast. You didn’t think of the fact that he could survive a quick five minute run underneath the rain. You thought of him, and you came for him.

“Babe? You okay?” you ask, resting your warm palm against his cold cheek.

Mingyu snaps out of his reverie, swallowing a lump in his throat. He doesn’t understand why his eyes are glassy, or why he felt so much from your gesture. He was sure more than he ever was that he was right to have chosen to spend his life with you. He’s just so in love with you and you cared for him in ways he didn’t know he needed.

“I’m okay now,” he croaks, kissing your palm and holding the umbrella over both your heads before you could press him. He squeezes you to his side, tucking you safely into his shoulder then kissing your forehead. “Let’s go home.”

-

An hour and one warm shower later, Mingyu’s in the kitchen cooking you both up a simple dinner.

He hears you leave your bedroom with Seo Ah, having finished giving her a bath and a change. You enter the kitchen with your toddler shuffling behind you. He lowers the heat, letting his kimchi jjigae simmer while he turns his attention towards the both of you. Seo Ah’s hair has yet to be combed, and he figures that his daughter wants to comb it herself when he notices her clasping her yellow hair brush. He shoots her a smile, resigning to the fact that he has to let her warm up to him. You walk up to your husband, tiptoeing to rest your chin over his shoulder.

“Smells good,” you praise him, kissing his jaw before pulling away. The warmth of your lips tickles him and he flushes so easily.

The adoration he has for you from all his reflections today overwhelms him in one crashing wave. He doesn’t let you get far. Turning around, he pulls you into his chest, and you let him but not without looking up at him in question. Your palms are pressed against his chest as you stare back into his soft gaze.

“Hm?”

Mingyu just smiles, slowly leaning in to kiss you. You reach up to rest your hand on his shoulder as he moves his mouth against yours. He sighs into you and breathes you in, taking his time just loving you beyond what his words can say. You don’t protest, used to his constant neediness and affection. You welcome it, pulling him closer and humming when he bites your lip. Giggling, you tap his chest, reminding him that your toddler was still in the room.

The man pulls back with a dopey grin, pressing a kiss to your lips, nose, forehead, eyelids---anywhere he can reach.

There was a curious question at the tip of your tongue when you both feel weight launch itself on Mingyu’s leg. He glances down to find his daughter tugging the hem of his cotton shorts. She’s looking up at him with a shy gaze, fiddling with the tiny hair brush in her hand.

“Appa,” she mumbles, looking down before tapping the brush against his leg, “Hair.”

A broad victorious grin stretches across his flushed face followed by your laughter as you make space for Seo Ah. Mingyu bends down to pick her up before setting her on her highchair then taking the brush in his hand. It’s comically tiny in his large hands as he tenderly combs through your toddler’s hair. He doesn’t realize how giggly he gets, happy he’s finally won her back.

You lean against the counter, watching your family for a while before you ask, “What was up with that?”

Mingyu looks up at you, still with that dopey lovesick expression on his face. He shakes his head, eyes twinkling.

“I’m just thinking about meeting Chan again tomorrow for coffee.”

You raise an amused brow, “What does Chan have to do with my question?”

Mingyu shrugs, knowing he’s too high on his love to realize how he’s not making sense. Still, he grins, fangs digging into his bottom lip as he promises, “Tell you what. I’ll tell you after.”

-

“Hyung, how’d you know noona was the ‘one’?”

(Y/N) is simply my better half.

a/n: i mainly wanted to talk about how the needs of men are often overlooked due to well toxic masculinity and expectations. I hope that point was gotten across otherwise, i still hope you enjoyed the fluff <3 Thank you for reading! Also, if you'd like to be added to the taglist, please comment on the masterlist <3

𝖳𝗁𝖾 𝖶𝖺𝗒 𝗈𝖿 𝖳𝗁𝖾 𝖧𝗈𝗎𝗌𝖾 𝖧𝗎𝗌𝖻𝖺𝗇𝖽

𖥔 pairing: kim mingyu x f.reader 𖥔 wordcount: 19.0k 𖥔 genre: fake marriage au!, fluff, angst, smut (18+ mdni)

𖥔 reblogs, likes and comments are always appreciated ♡! tumblr is based on reblogs not likes, and they help writers like me to get better reach. thank you!

𖥔 summary: you and mingyu (a former mafia member and also your ex-fiancè's former best friend) are forced into witness protection. All you’ve been told is that you’re meant to act like a happily married couple. Pushed into a cookie cutter house, and a suburban neighbourhood far from the city, where people bring you baked goods on your first day and partake in small talk, it’s all foreign and new. There’s so many things you don’t know about him, but for a man who’s only known violence and all things illegal, he’s somehow the perfect house husband.

𖥔 tags: nonidol!au, ex-mafia!mingyu, househusband!mingyu, afab!reader, catmom!reader, neighbour!verkwan, marshall officer!junhui and jihoon, ex-fiancè! seungcheol, fake marriage, mingyu loves to garden, mingyu has a large dragon tattoo on his back that is barely mentioned, mentions of the show Bluey and the movie Twilight, lots of domesticity and house work talk.

𖥔 note: i got this fic done earlier than expected but i have LOTS of people to thank because they are a huge part of why i was even able to get it done. firstly to my beta-readers, thank you, you were all so helpful and i really wouldn't have it done without you all @gyuswhore , @highvern , and @onlyhuis ♡. thank you to @wooahaeproductions , @hannieween , and june (again) for allowing me to put a cameo of you all in the fic! a big thank you to all the people who sent asks that helped me write some of the scenes in the story. thank you to a lot of the @svthub members who helped sm with this fic, esp @ourdawnishotterthanourday, @bitchlessdino, @seokgyuu, @onlymingyus, and @the-boy-meets-evil !! i couldn't have done it without you all and i'm so grateful ♡. i worked really hard on this fic and i've been talking about it for so long, so thank you to all of you who interacted with my posts and waited so patiently. i appreciate every single one of you and i hope you enjoy this story because i really love it too :). see you soonest - anna ♡.

𖥔 some songs i listened to while writing: lagi - bini, i wish - seventeen, sunny day - beabadoobee, chocolate - seventeen vocal unit. 𖥔 masterlist

-> smut tags/ warnings under the cut (18+ mdni!)

𖥔 smut tags: dom!gyu, sub!reader, unprotected penetrative p in v sex (don't do it!), breeding kink, multiple rounds, multiple positons, creampie, spanking, choking (barely), oral (f.receiving), spitting, pet names (reader: baby, wife) (mingyu: baby). 𖥔 warnings: mentions of weapon and drug trafficking, violence, reader is paranoid and anxious from time to time, a lot of inaccurate talk about legal stuff and witness protection, everything listed is talked about with as very little detail as possible.

The tension in the air is thick, not one word was uttered the whole car ride.

Everything still felt surreal, especially because the person you’re forced to live with for the next year is someone you aren’t particularly fond of. 

When you were told that you’d be put into witness protection due to your ex-fiance’s mafia bust, you didn’t expect that it would be spent with his right-hand man. The same man who you watched execute heinous acts under the volition of your ex. It wasn’t his fault that he had to carry out orders, but witnessing him unleash his wrath onto others was enough for you to steer clear of him. 

You aren’t one to judge, especially because you were to be wed to the mafia boss himself. You knew he was partaking in shady business, but you didn’t know that innocent people’s lives were included in his scheme to make more money. 

“I think we’re here,” Mingyu breaks the silence for the first time since you entered the car. 

Your attention is brought to the large sign that is displayed in front of the gated community. The words “Bridgewater Heights” are plastered to the high cement wall that surrounds the area. A part of you is glad that it at least looks like a secure place to live and bougie too; the gated entrance requiring a passcode with guards sitting at the doors screamed wealth. 

Never in your life did you think you were going to be living in such an expensive-looking place. Even when you were still dating Seungcheol, who had money raining down on him constantly, you never desired this lifestyle. Maybe it was because you never understood the want to live in the suburbs, the city suited you better anyway.

 Those initial thoughts are offset as you stare out the car window. children happily playing in the streets, the sun shining down on them, their laughter seeping through the cracks of the car door as they skip around. Everything here seems so cheerful. you wonder if you could begin to find that type of joy if you stay here long enough too. 

As you approach the house you are forced to stay in, you realize that it looks like every other one in the neighbourhood. Large, modern, and painfully identical to your neighbours. A white picket fence lining the yard, with a front-facing garage that perfectly fits two cars. Large windows and a wrap-around porch tie it all together. You couldn’t help but be amazed at how grand everything looks, the difference is drastic from your cozy apartment back in the city. 

An audible gulp goes down your throat. It didn’t start feeling real till now, especially because you spent the hour-long car ride daydreaming about your old home. Reading a book on the couch while stroking your cat, Norbert’s fur. His purring in the back seat calms you down, but not enough that you can accept your fate of living with Mingyu for the next year. 

Your now “husband” parks in the driveway before popping the trunk open to unload the suitcases that carried half of your life. All your clothes, books, and trinkets are all sized down to sixty kilograms. It upset you to take only your most important things, but if it meant you’d be safe from your ex, you knew you had no choice but to agree. 

As you opened the door to your new home, your heart began to pound in your chest. 

You watched as Mingyu continued to haul everything from the car into the house; his large biceps bulging through his white tee as he carried the box that caged your now whining cat. Norbert’s meowing becomes more agitated with every passing second he spends in his carrier case, the guilty feeling pools in your stomach as his meows turn into cries. You hated keeping him in one place for long, especially for long car rides. 

Norbert has always been an active cat, running around, and exploring your old neighbourhood, and at the end of the day, he always came back. At night you two spent hours cuddling while you read your books; sometimes reading the words aloud as if your cat could understand what you were saying. 

Mingyu finishes up with the last of the boxes, taking a step back to look at the new house in all its glory. His hands on his hips as he sighs, admiring the work that had gone into building the house. You didn’t understand why he found the craftsmanship so interesting, but you decided not to think too hard about it. 

He turns to you with an apprehensive smile, his eyes glinting in the sun, “Home sweet home, I guess.” 

two. 

The first few days at the new house were uneventful and awkward, to say the least. Mingyu spent the majority of his time doing random housework, he thought that if he had to live here for a year, then he should at least try and make it as “homey" as possible. 

Many of the women in the neighbourhood had deemed Mingyu as their new eye candy, even though he wore his pink Shibu inu apron while tending to the garden at the front of the house. They would especially make sure to take multiple laps around the block during their group walks, drooling over his toned muscles as he began to plant an array of flowers on the lawn. 

Mingyu isn’t very observant when it comes to people finding him attractive, believe it or not. He automatically assumes that the wives of Bridgewater just wanted to get to know the new couple that just moved in. 

“What a beautiful garden you have!” one of the wives called out from the sidewalk, her eyes glinting with appeal. 

“Thank you, It’s not done just yet, but I think we’re finally getting somewhere,” Mingyu smiles bashfully. 

“Of course dear. You know if you’re ever free you should come and take a look at my garden,” another lady giggles, her innuendo flying right over Mingyu’s head.

The group of forty-plus-year-old women all giggle like school girls as they watch his face turn red with flattery. Mingyu scratched the back of his head awkwardly as they bid him goodbye, curious as to what the group of women thought was so funny about him taking a look at their gardens. It’s all just a bunch of flowers, isn’t it? 

The sound of your car’s engine brings Mingyu out of his thoughts, his gardening tools forgotten by the piles of dirt. You lug Nortbert’s carrier as you walk into the house, acknowledging his presence with a small nod. His pink aprons raise a few questions in your head, but you decide not to comment on it. 

“Oh hey you’re back, is he ok?” Mingyu asks, motioning to the carrier you hold in your hand. 

Halting your steps, your eyes widen as you realize that he’s talking to you. There wasn’t much conversation between the two of you since you moved in. so you found it a little surprising that he’s asking about Norbert, the cat who tends to show lots of aggression towards him. 

“Morning. He’s ok, I just took him for his check-up at the vet,” you shrug before entering the house. 

You leave the conversation there. There wasn’t much else to say anyway, and you had a lot of work to get to before the end of the day. If Mingyu feels a little bit ignored by your actions, he doesn’t make it noticeable, going back to working on his garden. 

From across the yard, neither you nor Mingyu notices Seungkwan’s looming figure as he and Vernon enjoy the Friday morning sun. He watches the two of you from his porch with a quirked eyebrow. They’re awkward for newlyweds, he thinks to himself. 

“Nonie, don’t you think they’re a little weird?” Seungkwan nudges his boyfriend, who’s mumbling to himself while Vernon reads his book. 

Vernon quirks up, moving his headphones a little to hear what his boyfriend has to say, “Huh? Sorry I was reading, what’d you say?” 

“Nothing, go back to your book love,” Seungkwan mumbles, his eyes still darting back and forth from your descending figure and Mingyu, his suspicions spiking once more. 

three.

“So, how’s the house? Do you guys have everything you need?” Jihoon asks over the phone. 

Being the marshall officer assigned to your case, he would take time out of his hectic workday to check up on you and Mingyu. You still remember the first time he had contacted you, informing you about your ex escaping a planned police raid. The rhythmic beating of your heart stopped the moment those words left Jihoon’s lips, and the fear of Seungcheol showing up at your home unannounced at any moment doubled within a second. 

You didn’t want to leave everything behind, especially because of how hard it was for you to build a life for yourself in your old city. But the other half of you was scared at the possibility of Seungcheol finding out about your new apartment and your new job; it was all too risky. 

Now that you’re here, a part of you wonders what you would have said if Jihoon told you that Mingyu was the man they were going to put into witness protection alongside yourself. Maybe if you knew from the beginning you would’ve refused, or at least asked to be placed somewhere that allowed you to be alone. 

“It’s fine Jihoon, we’ve unpacked everything, but our neighbours are quite noisy if I’m being honest,” you sigh, petting Norbert in your lap as you answer all of his questions. 

The first day you and Mingyu moved in, your neighbour Seungkwan took it upon himself to introduce you to Bridgwater. Not only did he give you the rundown of every family that lived on your block, but he also became very curious about you and Mingyu. Seungkwan’s questions hit you back to back as if you were being interviewed, and you don’t even remember how you answered any of them. 

“Who’s the handsome one carrying all your things?”

“Oh, that’s your husband? How long have you been married? How did you two meet?” 

“Do you two have any kids? No? Oh what a shame, this neighbourhood is filled with them. Does your husband have a twin brother? Don’t tell Vernon I said that — just joking!”

“Oh, who’s Vernon? He’s my boyfriend, he’s in the house somewhere, anyways why did you two decide to move to Bridgwater?” 

The questions went on for what felt like forever and before you knew it Mingyu had finished unpacking the first floor of the house. The place came fully furnished so you didn’t have much to do. But Seungkwan made you nervous to say the least, especially because you didn’t prepare to be quizzed on your first day in the neighbourhood. The only good thing to come out of that interaction was the brownies he baked, which tasted amazing, surprisingly enough. 

“Why? Should I look into it?” Jihoon suggests, bringing you out of your thoughts. 

You shake your head as if he can see you through the phone call. 

“No, it’s okay, one of them just likes to gossip I think,” you laugh. “Other than that we’re fine.” 

You hear Jihoon sigh out of relief, his day is already long enough. If he had to spend time looking into your neighbours to see if they had a criminal record, he would miss his dinner date. 

“Okay, good to know. I’ll call you again next week,” Jihoon says with a monotonous tone. 

A giggle leaves your lips, the exhaustion clear in his voice. You felt a little bad knowing he had to spend a lot of time on you and Mingyu’s case, but you were also thankful for the fact that you had someone to talk to from time to time. 

It's only been about a week since you arrived in your little suburbia ‘haven’, and you still haven’t made any friends in the neighbourhood. You don’t count Seungkwan… he was more like a pain in the ass than a friend if anything. Although his boyfriend Vernon wasn’t as bad; quiet and a little expressionless, at least he kept to himself. 

You hear the front door unlock with a beep, you already know who it is. 

Whipping your head to see Mingyu stepping through the front door, hands filled with grocery bags. His appearance is laughable, his tall stature and large muscles contrasting the pink Shiba Inu apron that he wears over his clothes. You weren’t sure where he had got it from or why he chose to wear it in public, but you don’t feel like it’s your place to question him. 

In the few days that you two have been living together, you begin to realize how different he is compared to his former mafia brothers. Mingyu had a knack for knowing his way around the kitchen, the whole house. He spent a lot of his free time cleaning, gardening, or making meals for the two of you. 

The two of you didn’t talk much, and there was still some awkwardness lingering in the air. Meals were eaten with minimal conversation, and during the nights you would read your books in the living room, Mingyu would sit on the opposite side attempting to get Norbert to warm up to him. 

“Norbert, please! Anytime but now, I have a shit ton of groceries that need to be put away!” You can hear Mingyu exasperate at the front of the house. 

Norbert’s meowing rings throughout the house and you already know that his claws are probably scratching away at Mingyu’s pants. From what you have gathered, Norbert isn’t very fond of Mingyu. You assume that he’s just not used to having another person around the house, but at the same time, you thought your cat would have started to get used to his presence by now. 

“Norbert, baby! Come and sit with me, I’ve got a new book for us to read,” you call out for him, saving Mingyu from your cat’s wrath. 

The pitter-patter of his claws grows louder as he makes his way towards you, Mingyu’s large sigh of relief following shortly after. You laugh to yourself at how much he likes to torment Mingyu, even though Norbert only weighs about twenty pounds and is a cat.  

The night goes on without another hitch. Mingyu prepares dinner for the two of you while you and Norbert dive into the first installment of Twilight. Reading aloud so your baby (cat) can follow along with the story about teenage vampires and werewolves. 

four. 

Mingyu was a man who thought he would never be able to escape his mafia, let alone be able to restart in a place that didn’t tie him to any of his illicit work. He never wanted to work for Seungcheol, nor did he want to live every day wondering if it was going to be his last. 

He sees himself as a simple man, and all his daydreams are centered around living a simple life. A home that’s fit for a family, a golden retriever to throw frisbees with, and neighbourhood barbecues. He thought it was all some far-fetched fantasy. 

It wasn’t until Jihoon got in contact with him, that’s when he realized that he finally had a chance at living the life he always dreamed of. What he didn’t know was that you would be the one he was going to be living with. But the moment Jihoon mentioned you, he knew that his wishes were more out of reach than he hoped. 

He didn’t have anything against you, but he still remembers the day you left Seungcheol. It's heavily ingrained in his memory, not only because your escape created an uproar, but it was also the day he realized he too needed to get out of there as soon as possible.

… 

“Boss? Wonwoo told me you wanted to talk,” Mingyu enters Seungcheol’s office, face painted with worry. 

The office faces the west side of the city, skyscrapers and clouds surrounding the large floor-to-ceiling windows. There sat Seungcheol, his hair tousled every which way due to his habit of constantly running his fingers through it. The most obvious indicator of Seungcheol’s stress is if his hair is a complete mess, and that is how Mingyu knew that there must be something wrong. 

“Y/n left,” Seungcheol’s voice breaks, head in his hands. 

His eyes are bloodshot, shoulders shaking as he cries to himself quietly. Seungcheol wasn’t prepared for you to leave, let alone disappear without a single goodbye.  He knew it was his fault too, and he knew why you left. The world flipped upside from that day onwards. Seungcheol hasn’t been the same since.

The air becomes thick, and Mingyu finds it hard to swallow. He knew how much Seungcheol adored you, and he knew that he would do anything for you. 

“What? Why? Did she say anything to you?” Mingyu panics, unsure what to say or how to comfort his leader. 

“No note, nothing,” Cheol sighs, picking at the chipped piece of wood on his desk. “All she left was her ring on the dresser.” 

“I’m sorry Cheol, I didn’t know.” Mingyu becomes meek, his voice softer than feathers falling onto the pavement. 

His stomach plummets to the ground. He had a feeling you found out what truly lies under Seungcheol’s business, but he didn’t know you would leave so hastily. He felt the guilt swirl throughout his body, but a part of him was relieved. Mingyu knew you weren’t meant for this lifestyle, and if you stayed any longer there would be no chance for you to escape. 

Wonwoo informed him that he told you about what Seungcheol does to bring money in. He told Mingyu that it wouldn’t be right to continue to let you live so carelessly without knowing what type of person your fiance is. 

It wasn’t long after that conversation that Mingyu found his way out of Seungcheol’s grasp too. He knows he should’ve felt bad, and that he should’ve at least found an excuse to leave Seungcheol. But he just couldn’t go through with it, he knew if he even spent a moment explaining himself, he would’ve never been able to leave. 

Mingyu was Seungcheol’s right-hand man, his confidant, and most importantly his best friend. Mingyu has seen Cheol grow into the person he is today, and it only makes him feel even more remorse. He knows he should’ve stopped him from becoming blinded by wealth, by power. But he didn’t and it caused him not only to lose his fiancée, but also his brother. 

Since that day, Mingyu has constantly pondered what could’ve been if Seungcheol hadn’t turned to mafia life. Would they have been happy? Would they have lived long lives with families of their own? There are so many unanswered what-ifs. He knows he can’t change his past anymore, but he knows that wants a better future. Even if it meant spending a year faking a marriage with his former best friend’s ex-fiancée. 

five. 

“Oh Y/n-ie! It’s good to see you, I swear I haven’t seen you leave the house since you’ve moved in,” Seungkwan snips, giving you a tooth-achingly sweet smile. 

You try to suppress your eye-roll as much as possible as he walks over to your side of the comically green grassed yard. Seungkwan’s hand is on his hip as he watches you make your way to your car. 

“Good afternoon to you too, Seungkwan. Just needed to pick up a few things for dinner. Mingyu spent the afternoon at the country club,” you return his fake smile, trying to keep up the facade of a doting wife. 

“Oh! Is that so? I swear I thought your husband did the housework in your home. He’s always wearing that pink apron around the neighbourhood.” Seungkwan pretends to act invested in your “married life”, but he’s trying to get whatever gossip he can out of you. His real goal is purely to entertain the neighbourhood aunties with any information on the newlyweds. 

Stopping in your tracks, his words catch you by surprise. You should’ve known that Seungkwan is an observant person, especially because he somehow knows everything about everyone in Bridgewater.

“Oh we split the chores evenly,” you let out a forced laugh, he offers to do the housework, and you think to yourself before continuing, “And he likes the apron, so who am I to deny his happiness?” 

Not wanting to be grilled by Seungkwan any longer, you hastily slip into your car before he can get another word in. 

…

“Norbert, please calm down honey, I’m trying to cook! And if I don’t end up eating neither will you,” you warn your cat to stop pawing at your leg. 

Norbert was extra clingy today, and knowing you weren’t the best cook in the world, you couldn’t afford to ruin the recipe for a second time. Yes, a second time. 

The first attempt at making alfredo for both you and Mingyu ended miserably, and thankfully you were smart enough to buy double the ingredients just in case any mistakes were to occur when you were cooking. The recipe online looked simple, and you even watched a few TikTok videos in an attempt to expand your knowledge. 

You thought that making a cream sauce and boiling some noodles would be pretty straightforward, but somehow, you burnt the boiling noodles. Seeing all the noodles stick to the bottom of the pan you decided to just leave the searing pot in the sink and worry about it later, which turned out to be another grave mistake. 

Mistake number two started when you thought the pot was cool enough to touch, earning you a sizzling burn on your soft skin. This explains Norbert’s clingy behaviour, witnessing all your fuck ups through his kitten eyes. You try not to swear in front of the baby but you couldn’t help but let out a few curses while you attempted to bandage up your burn.

 To say the least, you shouldn’t be let into the kitchen from now on. But you felt bad that Mingyu made food for the both of you instead of letting you fend for yourself, so you thought you could at least return the gesture. 

Norbert’s meows come to an abrupt stop as he hears the front door beep, making his way to greet Mingyu at the door. Except Norbert never greets Mingyu in a friendly way. Not more than ten seconds pass before you begin to hear Norbert’s hissing and clawing into the man's thighs. 

“Norbert! Please! Where’s your mom? Can’t you just sit with her so I can at least take my shoes off?” Mingyu begs, causing you to snort. 

Norbert doesn't listen to anyone but you, and even that is a rare occurrence for your sassy cat. 

“Honey, come to the kitchen!” you yell at your cat to return to his rightful side beside you. 

Mingyu comes speeding down the hallway, Norbert following him, his curious eyes peeking at your frame. He watches as you concentrate on making the alfredo sauce, tongue stuck out and a layer of sweat lining your forehead. 

The sun is setting behind you, the golden rays hitting your face, highlighting your features beautifully. Mingyu is entranced, his prior feelings of hunger are nothing but a memory of the past. 

You can feel his eyes on you, his stare boring holes into the side of your face and it causes your shoulders to stiffen slightly. Turning to face him, you quirk an inquisitive brow, not sure as to why he’s so trained on you. The gears begin to turn, and finally, the imaginary lightbulb begins to ding. 

“I was calling for Norbert,” you clarified. 

“Oh.” 

“Yeah, but it’s fine if you’re here too. I tried to make us dinner, I know you’re the cook but I felt bad that you’re always the one preparing food for us,” you shrug, trying not to focus on how handsome Mingyu looks in his golfing attire. 

His large biceps stretch the material of his shirt beyond belief, while the pants define his slim waist. The strands of hair are somehow perfectly placed, and his eyes are so kind, it would be stupid to deny his beauty. You can admit that Mingyu is extremely attractive, and you know you don’t owe Seungcheol anything, but the thought of being involved with Mingyu more than you already are could fuck things up for your future, especially knowing this arrangement isn’t permanent.

“I don’t mind though.” 

“I know you don’t but I do,” you sigh, finishing up the dish by adding the sauce to the pasta. 

Turning towards the island, you begin to plate the rest of the sides for dinner, trying your best to make sure that this batch is more edible than the first attempt. Mingyu continues to watch you, his arms crossed as he leans against the fridge. 

This is everything Mingyu wished for himself, the view of you plating the food you’re about to eat together, even if you’re his ‘best friend’s’ ex. Playing golf at the country club, even if it’s with Jihoon, who wanted to be able to meet without being inconspicuous. Coming home to a fluffy fur baby, even though Norbert hates his guts. It may not be perfect, or how Mingyu imagined it exactly, but it’s better than before. Better than when he was living every day like it was his last, working a job that brought him no happiness. 

“Did you burn yourself earlier?” he asks you, noticing the bandage you wrapped around your left hand. 

“Yeah, I’m not the best cook so, if the food doesn't taste right, sorry,” you apologize in advance, not wanting Mingyu to get his hopes up. 

He laughs at how apologetic you look, and you turn to give him a glare, his canines poking out of his smile like fangs. This is probably one of the first times you two held a full conversation. The only other time was when you were deciding on how the house was going to be run, and picking out your separate bedrooms. 

Mingyu was kind enough to let you stay in the master bedroom while he slept in the room across the hall from yours. If you took away the history you had with Mignyu and Seungcheol, you could imagine that the two of you are just like roommates. Living together, acquainted, but not exactly friendly or close. 

It isn’t as bad as you thought it was going to be, and you may have misjudged Mingyu at first. He’s a lot different than he was all those years ago, or maybe you find him to be different now because you didn't know him all that well when you were still with Seungcheol. 

You find Mingyu to be kind, soft-hearted, and a man who somehow knows a lot about taking care of the house. Even knowledgeable on how to clean Norbert’s litter box, and give him the occasional bath.

“What did you and Jihoon talk about at the country club?” you ask him, wanting to know if there’s any important news that should be brought to your attention. 

“Well he said that the FBI is still on the hunt for Seungcheol, but the rest of the guys have already been put into custody,” he sighs. 

“And Wonwoo?” 

“He’s fine, they pardoned him for giving up information,” Mingyu mutters, walking up to the space beside you. 

He takes the bowl of lettuce from your hands, adding in all the ingredients you prepped for the salad to have alongside your pasta. The brush of your hands makes you blush like some teenage girl, but you allow him to help you nonetheless. You didn’t realize how tiring cooking was because you’ve never had to cook for more than one person before. 

“That’s good to hear. If it weren’t for Wonwoo, I wouldn’t have been able to leave that damn place,” you laugh bitterly, folding the sauce into your noodles, making sure they were fully coated. 

“I was there, that day,” Mingyu mentions, his eyes trained on preparing the food in front of him, “Seungcheol was a wreck.” 

“I know, and I know it hurt him, but I couldn’t stand being there anymore. Especially after Wonwoo told me the truth.” 

“It’s okay, he’s not the same guy I knew from when we were kids either.” 

“I hope he’s moved on at least.” 

“I wouldn’t know,” Mingyu shrugs, his eyes glassy, “I left a few days after you did.” 

“Really?” 

“Yeah, for the same reasons you did, and also for myself,” he sighs, moving away to grab plates from the cupboards. 

Standing there, you’re stunned. Mingyu was someone Seungcheol saw as his brother, and you thought they would live their mafia life together till the end. As cheesy as it sounds, there were times you felt that your ex cared more for Mingyu than any other person who worked for him. 

Mingyu begins to set the table, Norbert following closely as he peers at the counter to see all the food that you’ve made. If you didn’t know any better you would’ve thought that even your cat was aware of the stiff atmosphere that blankets you and Mingyu. 

You don’t know if you should pry, so you just nod and help him with putting dinner on the table. And for the rest of the night, it was quiet. Eating in silence while Norbert watches Bluey in the living room, something that you’ve always put on for him just to keep him occupied while you and Mingyu eat dinner. 

After dinner was finished, Mingyu offered to wash the dishes, allowing you to relax and enjoy some episodes of Bluey with Norbert purring peacefully by your side. 

“Mind if I join?” Mingyu enters the living room, wearing sweats and a white tank top. 

You give him a shy smile gesturing for him to sit on your right side while Norbert lays on the cushion to your left. His taunt muscles distract you for a second, but you do your best to shake the attraction from your coursing veins.  The couch dips and Mingyu lets out a relieved sigh. Probably because he was tired from the day he spent trying to pretend he was out golfing with Jihoon. 

“So what’s the show about?” Mingyu asks you, his eyes trained on your side profile. 

“A show about a dog family,” you chuckle, “Originally it was meant for Norbert to watch when I’m working or when we’re eating, but it’s pretty good.” 

“Really? Isn’t it for kids?” Mingyu snorts but continues to sit next to you, watching the said kids' show. 

“Yeah it is, but Norbert is a kid to me,” you laugh, giving Norbert extra pats. 

“He’s a little menace that one,” Mingyu shakes his head, “I don’t think he likes me very much.” 

“Norbert just needs to get used to you,” you shrug, “I’ve had him since I left Seungcheol, so he’s seen me at my worst, he might just be overprotective of me.” 

Mingyu nods, taking in everything you’re telling him. He understands how leaving your ex-fiance is traumatic and heartbreaking. He knows it wasn’t easy for you, but at least you had Norbert to help you heal. 

“It wasn’t an easy decision, and Norbert helped me stay strong. It was lonely without Seungcheol for a long time, and a part of me will always love who he used to be.” 

Heat overwhelms Mingyu’s body, and his heart breaks for you. He can’t imagine what it's like to love someone and find out they’re not the person you thought they were. He knew you tried to tolerate his work, but at some point, you were led to your breaking point. 

“I hope you know you did the right thing. Seungcheol was going down a dark path and you were able to get out,” Mingyu smiles at you, his eyes filled with sincerity. 

“Thank you Mingyu, I appreciate that,” you return his smile. 

The two of you spend the rest of the night watching episodes of Bluey with Norbert, talking a little in between about the characters. Laughing at the scenes with Bluey and her younger sister, falling into a comfortable silence with each passing second. 

…

You feel warm, no, hot even. The sunlight hitting your face makes your eyes scrunch in discomfort. There's an ache in your shoulders as you begin to wake up from a very uncomfortable sleep. An arm pinning you down to the couch, a leg over yours. It takes you a while to begin to comprehend where you are and who is lying next to you. 

Mingyu’s snores fill your ears, heavy breaths tickling the back of your neck. You almost fall onto the carpet as you realize who exactly is holding you. Last night ended so peacefully, so much so that you don’t even remember falling asleep to begin with. 

Yet here you are, enveloped in his grasp, panicking and wondering how you’re going to escape without waking him up. And if matters couldn’t get any worse, you feel a hard bump brush against your lower back. The blush on your cheeks intensifies, he can’t be, you think to yourself. But you know what exactly is poking you as if this situation could get any more awkward. 

It's normal, right? Men get morning wood all the time, you thought to yourself. 

“Shit…” you whisper to yourself, slowly prying Mingyu’s arm from off your waist. 

He stirs in his sleep as you move off the couch but not enough to wake him up. As you stand up to walk away, you take one last peek at him, wondering how you two ended up falling asleep while watching Bluey of all shows. 

The usually sharp features are softened by his slumber, giving him a youthful look. It’s the first time you’ve seen him look so peaceful, and it suits him. This neighbourhood suits him as if he’s been living here all his life. It makes you feel a little envious knowing how easy it is for him to assimilate. He remembers all the neighbours' names and says hello to everyone who passes him while he's working in the yard, he just made it all look so easy to forget his life in the bustling city. Although you can’t blame him, you can tell he loves it here because of how much care he puts into the house. You can’t help but wonder why he’s trying so hard knowing both of you will part ways by next year. 

six. 

While you spent the majority of the day holed up in your office trying to finish off the rest of your projects, Mingyu decided that it was a lovely day to try and bond more with Norbert. He wasn’t sure how to make the stubborn kitten fall for him, but he thought that a nice walk around the neighbourhood couldn’t hurt. 

The day had barely started and Norbert was already making a fuss. Mingyu isn’t well-versed when it comes to cats; he’s more of a dog person himself. So to his surprise, Norbert was very adamant about staying indoors today. 

“Don’t you wanna explore the neighbourhood, Norbert?” Mingyu tries to persuade the cat, which makes him feel like a fool. 

Norbert gives him a blank stare obviously, and Mingyu wonders why he’s even trying knowing that the cat probably can’t understand him anyway. Trying his best to compromise with the ever-so-stubborn Norbert, a light bulb goes off in his head. 

It surely wasn’t easy, and there were a few scratches here and there, but Mingyu finally was able to put Norbert into the basket of his bicycle. The cat meowed like crazy until he was hit with the fresh air and warm sunlight. His meows died down and he sat in the basket peacefully, watching the kids play on the street and the cars pass by. 

“See? Not so bad now is it?” Mingyu chuckles, noticing the shift in Norbert’s mood. He meows back while nuzzling into the safety of his blanket. 

“It’ll be a boys’ day today, your mom’s busy working,” Mingyu continues, even though the animal can’t understand what he’s saying.

Feeling the wind brush through his hair, Mingyu takes a deep breath of fresh air. A content smile made its way onto his face, he could get used to this. The neighbours of Bridgewater waved to him as he biked along the streets. It's so peaceful, everyone is happy, and Mingyu is happy. He loved to explore even if it was just by himself, even if it meant he was alone with his thoughts. 

“Mingyu darling, what are you doing out and about today?” one of the older women he sees daily calls out for him. 

“Good afternoon! Me and Norbert just wanted to explore today,” he smiles with a toothy grin. 

The woman blushes at his handsome visuals, trying not to get caught up in his charms. She looks behind his large frame, spotting the cat sleeping peacefully in the basket attached to his bike. Letting out a giggle, finding it quite funny that Norbert is a cat and not a dog, usually, you don’t take cats out for these types of things. 

“Where’s that wife of yours? I’ve only seen her a few times, but oh my, isn’t she so pretty? You got lucky you know,” she chuckles, patting Mingyu’s arm playfully. 

Mingyu’s eyes shine at the mention of you, he agrees that you’re pretty but it feels a little weird that you're referred to as his wife, knowing that it’s all a facade. 

“Thank you miss, I’ll have to let her know that you said that,” he replies kindly while Norbert stirs a little in his spot before returning to his sleep. 

“Please don’t call me Miss, it's so formal! Just call me Auntie, okay?” she returns his kind smile. “You know what, I’ve got some leftover kimchi, why don’t you take it home, for you and your wife.” 

Mingyu’s eyes widened, his heart warmed by her act of kindness. “Is that ok? You don’t have to feel obligated to do that.” 

“Oh please, you young people, always so polite. I want to! So please share it with your wife, make some kimchi stew for dinner,” she reassures him, leaving him at her front yard to fetch a container of said kimchi. 

She comes back with a huge tub, enough to feed them for a whole month maybe. Handing him over the large container, she reminds him to come back when they run out. Bidding her goodbye, Mingyu returns home from his bike ride successfully with a sleepy cat and a comically large tub of fermented cabbage in tow. 

…

The smell of kimchi stew wafts from the kitchen into your office causing your stomach to growl with hunger. Focused on your pending tasks, you didn’t realize how fast the time flew by while you were working. Glancing over at the clock you’re surprised that it's already a quarter to five.

Stepping out to see what Mingyu’s doing in the kitchen, you find his back turned to you, nursing a large pot of stew on the burner. His large frame is accentuated by a white tank top, the pink string of his apron strewn along his waist. At this point, you weren’t sure if you were drooling over the smell of the food or the sight of your muscular fake husband. 

“What are you cooking?” you call out, leaning against the door frame that leads to your workspace. 

Mingyu jumps at the sound of your voice, surprised that you’ve come out so early. He knows you tend to work for long periods, only coming out when you’ve fully completed your assigned projects. 

“Kimchi stew, the lady down the street gave us a huge tub,” he replies, still stirring the pot without looking back at you. “I took Norbert out for a bike ride and she offered so.” 

“You took Norbert for a bike ride?” you ask with a raised eyebrow. 

Norbert is the type of cat who doesn’t like getting picked up and knowing that information makes it hard to believe Mingyu was able to successfully put him into the basket attached to his bike. Imagining him fighting to get your very grumpy cat into the bike made you giggle, especially because you know how much Norbert doesn’t like Mingyu.   

“Yeah, after a few scratches, he got in and I think he liked it. He fell asleep for most of it though,” Mingyu snorted, recalling how much that furball of fury put up a fight till his body hit the basket. 

“It’s nice that you’re trying to bond with him, it just takes him a while to warm up to you.” 

“Yeah, I figured we just needed a boy's day while you were working.” 

“Hmm, anyways the kimchi stew, is it ready?” you inquire while your stomach’s impatience continues to grow with each passing second. 

“It should be good, do you mind setting the table for me?” he requests while taking the pot off the burner. 

You don’t say anything else, moving to the living room to turn on more episodes for Norbert before grabbing plates from the cabinets to place them on the small dinner table. 

The serving dish needed for the stew sat at the very top shelf of the cupboard and your arms were simply too short to grab it. Your movements come to an abrupt halt the moment you feel Mingyu stand close behind you, one hand on your waist while the other hovers over you to grab the bowl. 

“Let me get it for you,” he grunts, taking the dish in his hand to ladle in the stew. 

Heart pounding in your chest, his breath tickles the back of your neck, a shiver running down your spine. Mingyu’s body encases yours as his arm comes back down to place the dish on the counter. 

Cursing yourself, you're thankful your back is turned to him or else he would be able to see the blush that’s starting to bloom on your cheeks. You mumble a small thanks before going to the table to resume setting the plates down for dinner. 

As you two eat in silence you think about all the moments you’ve had with Mingyu today. The time you slept on the couch until just now when he held you close. It didn’t even mean anything, it shouldn’t mean anything, yet it replays in your mind like clockwork. 

seven. 

The ringing of the doorbell brings you out of your thoughts, placing your book down, you head over to answer the door. It’s none other than your gossip of a neighbour Seungkwan. 

“Lovely evening Y/n-ie!” He smiles brightly, inviting himself into the foyer of your house before you could even protest. 

You resist the urge to roll your eyes yet again, stepping aside to allow Seungkwan to go on with whatever it is that brought him barging into your home. 

“Good evening,” you respond curtly, suspicious as to what he could need at this hour. 

“Vernon and I have some friends over for a little nightcap and dessert, do you and Mingyu want to join?” he asks, eyes never leaving yours. 

To a normal and maybe less paranoid person, one would assume that Seungkwan is just being a kind neighbour, but you’re not so easily fooled. The glint in his eyes makes you realize there’s probably an ulterior motive to his ‘act of kindness’. 

“Oh no it’s okay, it would be rude to impose,” you try to play it off politely, but the fucker wouldn’t budge. 

“Nonsense! I’m inviting you and Mingyu because I want you two there,” he explains, waving his hand at you.

Before you can refuse him even more, you hear Mingyu coming out of his room to check up on why you’re taking so long at the front door. 

“Y/n, is everything alright?” he calls out for you as he walks towards the foyer. 

“Everything’s all fine and dandy Mingyu, I just came over to invite you and Y/n over for some drinks and dessert!” Seungkwan informs him before you can get another word out. 

“That sounds like fun actually, why don’t we go baby?” Mingyu turns over to you, his eyebrows raised, his smile tight as he tries to silently tell you that he’s putting an act up for Seungkwan.

Still flustered by the pet name, you cough out a yes. Turning over to Seungkwan to give him a fake smile. He returns your smile, eyes squinted, you can see how hard the gears are working in that brain of his. You know that he probably finds you two odd because of how awkward you and Mingyu are with each other, but you attempt to play it off as normal as possible. 

“It’s settled then! Let's go, can’t keep everyone else waiting,” he exclaims as he opens the door, gesturing for the two of you to walk out first before closing the door. 

Crossing over to Seungkwan’s side of the yard, he opens the door for the two of you like the perfect host that you figured he would be. You cannot deny that his extroverted persona allows him to be so persuasive, but you can’t get over the fact that he’s a little too curious. 

“The newlyweds are here!” he calls out and five heads whip over to stare at you and Mingyu standing awkwardly in the foyer of their home. 

Mingyu grasps your hand in his, his palms rough, probably from all the work he does in the yard. Making your way over to the couch, a man with long hair gets up to pour you two drinks. This is the most that you two have come into contact with each other consciously if you don’t count the time on the couch. 

A part of you wonders if Mingyu realizes what happened this morning, but you’re too embarrassed to bring it up. So you’ll leave it and hope he doesn’t remember you two squeezed so intimately on the living room sofa. 

“Everyone, this is Y/n and Mingyu, they moved into the house beside ours a couple of weeks ago,” he introduces the two of you. 

As the two of you say your hello’s Mingyu pulls over to sit beside him on the couch, his arm wrapped around your waist. The blush on your cheeks stays permanently as you’re practically sitting on his lap. You try not to blow your cover but it’s hard with so many people's eyes on you. 

“You both already know Vernon-ie, the one grabbing your drinks is Jeonghan and that’s his wife, Valerie,” Seungkwan gets you two acquainted with the couple before moving on. “That’s Joshua and Maren, his wife.” 

“Nice to meet you! I’m Valerie but you can just call me Val,” the woman with brownish black hair smiles at you, and you can only nod, still overwhelmed with the amount of people you just met, “So why did you guys choose to live in Bridgewater?” 

“We thought it would be a nice place to live, I work from home and Mingyu is currently taking a break. The first time we saw the listing, we knew it was going to be our forever home,” you lie straight through your teeth. 

There's a twinge of guilt that stirs at the pit of your stomach, you feel bad for lying to these people because of how kind they all looked. You even felt bad for lying to Seungkwan, albeit he can be a nosy little shit but at least he’s nice enough to introduce you to his friends.

“If you don’t mind me asking where did you and Mingyu meet?” Maren, the woman sitting beside Joshua asks with a curious sparkle in her eyes. 

You almost choke on your drink, eyes wide because you were not prepared for all these questions thrown at you. Thankfully Mingyu took the lead this time, his thumb rubbing soothing circles where he had his hand placed on your waist. 

“We met through a mutual friend, we were in university at the time,” he smiles warmly and Maren listens intently, hanging onto Mingyu’s every word. “The moment I saw her I knew I was going to marry her.” 

Mingyu turns to you, placing a kiss on the top of your head, and your cheeks heat up for what feels like the millionth time today. Even though his acting this way with you is all a facade your heart can’t help but skip a beat. 

“What! That’s so cute,” Maren gushes before glaring at her husband before hitting his arm jokingly. “Why can’t you say cheesy stuff like that?” 

Joshua’s eyes go wide and he can’t help but stutter. “Bro you’re making the rest of us look really bad right now.” 

Mingyu barks out a laugh and just shrugs nonchalantly knowing that no one is immune to his charms. Even if all of this is a lie, he can’t help but play into the sappy newly-wed trope with you, and it doesn't help that he finds you so caring and beautiful too. There’s something about the way you lean into him on the couch and the soft smile you give him while talking about your “forever home”, you make it easy for him to imagine fake scenarios of how you two met. 

“What university did you two go to?” Jeonghan pipes up from his seat, his arm wrapping around Val as he sips on his glass of bourbon. 

“I went to Yonsei, I majored in statistics. Mingyu and I met at a club with our mutual friends,” you try not to sound too nervous while you piggyback off of Mingyu’s lie. 

The back of your neck feels hot from having everyone inquire about your history with Mingyu, and it doesn’t help that your ‘husband’’s sitting so close to you, his body heat transferring over to you. At least it wasn’t a complete lie, you did go to Yonsei and you majored in stats; just way before you met both Seungcheol and Mingyu. 

“What about you Mingyu?” Jeonghan moves on to him, and he perks up in his seat, mouth full of the cheesecake that Seungkwan made. The food fills his cheeks slightly and you giggle at how much he resembles a chipmunk. 

“I went to SNU, and majored in business,” he states after swallowing his dessert and clearing his throat. 

“Okay, enough with the interrogation. Can we talk about something else?” Vernon interrupts, obviously feeling bad for the fact that the rest of them have been asking you two questions for the majority of the night. 

The rest of the group laughs, probably because they know that Vernon doesn’t talk unless he’s prompted to. Although you don’t know him very well you could tell that he was more of a listening type. It makes sense that he and Seungkwan are together, he does enough talking for the both of them. 

You were more surprised by Mingyu’s answer though, you didn’t know that he went to SNU, if that was even the truth. Although he does look like the business type. There was something about him that exudes the energy of a CEO or a man who’s just good at making connections. He’s able to catch people's attention, his words carry the weight of someone who isn’t afraid to speak out loud. 

With the way he talked to Seungkwan’s friends tonight, you realized how well-articulated he is, and the fact that he’s able to get people to listen to what he has to say. Although he’s a little goofy, if you didn’t know him you would’ve assumed he’s someone important just by how he carries himself outside of the house. There’s a swell of pride within you when you watch him talk about your ‘past’, and for some reason, you don’t mind it. If anything, you’re looking forward to more moments like this. 

…

The rest of the evening went along smoothly after that, and by the time everyone was ready to leave it was nearing one in the morning. You helped Seungkwan clean up in the kitchen, putting away the dirty dishes in the dishwasher. The two of you were quiet for a bit, only talking when you asked him about what goes where. 

A part of you felt bad for being so curt with Seungkwan in the beginning. Maybe you were wrong about him and he just likes to be a nosy nieghbour, maybe it’s his way of making friends. You can’t help but be guarded due to your past and you misjudged him too quickly. 

Maybe it was the glasses of wine you had or the fact that you saw a different version of him. But there’s a lovable side to him, and also a side that doesn’t mind embarrassing himself a little to get a laugh out of his friends. 

“I want to thank you for inviting me and Mingyu tonight, all of our friends are in the city so we don’t get to see them often,” you confessed. “It’s nice to have someone else to talk to other than Mingyu or Norbert.” 

He turns to you with a genuine smile, and you notice that maybe that glint in his eyes is permanent, a glint that shows his happy demeanor and not the type that’s meant to show his mischievousness. 

“I’m glad you had fun because you’ll be invited to things like these from now on,” he expresses, his smile reaching his eyes now. 

“I appreciate it, Mingyu needs more friends in the neighbourhood, ones that are his age and don’t constantly drool over him,” you roll your eyes, recalling all the aunties who stroll past your front yard daily. 

“I can be his friend but I can’t promise I won’t drool over him,” he giggles, causing you to slap his arm playfully. 

“Hey! Leave my husband alone, you have your own. Don't get greedy now,” you feign anger at him, glaring at him before bursting out laughing. 

Mingyu walks into the kitchen, handing over the rest of the dishes that were left in the living room. His eyes dart back and forth between you as he realizes how much closer you two have gotten tonight. 

“Thank you, Gyu, if you ever get tired of being bossed around by Y/n you can always live with me and Nonie,” Seungkwan giggles as he calls him by his nickname, giving his large bicep a squeeze. 

You gasp at how forward Seungkwan is, your hand placed over your chest as you pretend to be offended by his words. He only glances back at you to stick his tongue out. 

“You’re so childish, he’s my husband,” you attested, pulling Mingyu by his arm so he could stand closer to you. “And I’m not bossy, Mingyu just enjoys doing housework!” 

Mingyu is even more confused now, but he cracks a smile when he sees how playful you’ve become. He concludes that maybe you just had a little more to drink than normal and goes along with you and Seungkwan’s teasing. 

“Woah that’s enough you two, there’s enough Mingyu for everyone,” he laughs and you give him a sour look. He was obviously feeling himself too much in that moment, but you can’t help but chuckle at how cocky he sounds. 

“Let’s go home Gyu, before Seungkwan decides to hold you hostage.” you huff emphasizing his nickname before you drag him over to the front door. “Bye Seungkwan, I already know I’ll see you tomorrow!” 

Waving goodbye to Kwan, you pass Vernon on your way as he sits on the couch scrolling on his phone while the two other couples mingle amongst themselves. 

“Bye everyone, it was nice meeting you, but it’s way past her bedtime,” Mingyu muses, motioning over to you. Your eyes feel droopy and you were practically hanging off of Mingyu’s body as he held you by the waist. 

They all say their goodbyes to the two of you with promises to meet soon again. Mingyu guides you through the front door and across the green grassed lawn back to your place. 

The time you spent with everyone tonight allowed you to recognize that maybe it isn’t so bad living here. Especially if you’ll be able to talk to them more often. No one but Mingyu knows about your past, and that reassures you to start new friendships, even though they’re temporary.

eight.

The next morning you woke up to your phone ringing incessantly, to the point you almost threw it across your room. It wasn’t until you read the name “Jihoon” flashing across the screen, causing you to fully wake up from what feels like a hundred years' worth of sleep. You silently promised yourself to remind Mingyu to not let you drink so much wine at Seungkwan’s house again. 

“Jihoon? Is everything alright? You usually check up on us in the evening,” you stammered, sleep still evident in your voice. 

“Y/n, hey sorry to call so early but…they’ve located Seungcheol,” he sighs, the news of his whereabouts hanging in the air. 

Gulping nervously, your palms sweat. The way Jihoon sounded a little apprehensive made you feel uncertainty brewing in the pit of your stomach. 

“Go on.” 

“He used a burner to call a friend of his I’m guessing, but we were able to ping it and he’s in the town next to yours.”

“What?!” Now you’re fully freaking out, pushing your comforter to go and find Mingyu. 

“I’m really sorry Y/n,” Jihoon sounds just as stressed as you are. 

Searching around the house you see him sitting on the sofa with Norbert beside him, they’re watching more episodes of Bluey, but he pauses the show after noticing the panicked look on your face. You go to sit beside him putting your phone on speaker so the both of you can hear what Jihoon has to say. 

“You’re on speaker, Mingyu’s right beside me,” you mention before allowing him to continue. 

His sigh is audible through the speakers of your phone, and your blood pressure rises. If Jihoon is this worried then you should probably just be as worried. 

“They found his location to be at a motel in the next town over, we don’t know how he found out but he might be looking for you two,” he explains carefully. “I’m sending over another Marshall officer to watch over you two while we continue to track Seungcheol. You two should be safe with him but try not to leave the neighbourhood for now, it could get dangerous if he ends up seeing either of you.” 

“Okay got it, thank you Jihoon,” Mingyu replies, his hand subconsciously placed over yours as you two bear the news of your very dangerous ex potentially on the hunt for you two. 

Jihoon gives you two his regards before he hangs up, probably too busy to linger on the phone for any longer. 

Giving Mingyu a nervous look, he can tell how hard this information is for you to handle. After a month of being here in what felt like a sanctuary from the dangers of the outside world, you’re pulled back into reality. You’re reminded of why you’re really here, more scared than ever. 

The tears start to fall before you even realize and Mingyu doesn’t say anything else, instead, he pulls you into your arms and tries to comfort you as much as possible. Even though he’s just as scared as you are, he’s determined to protect you, to protect his home, even Norbert. 

“I’m sorry, Y/n,” he whispers into your ear as you cry into his chest, your tears wetting his shirt. 

“You did nothing wrong, Mingyu,” you blabber as his hand rubs your back, trying to console your sobs. “I’m just so scared, what if he hurts us? What if you get hurt? I wouldn’t be able to handle it.” 

“Hey hey, it’s okay, I got you, I won’t let anyone hurt you. Don’t forget where I came from before all this,” he reassures you, pulling you back to look you in your eyes with a solemn stare. “He’s not going to touch even a single hair on you, or Nobert.” 

You giggle a little at the fact that he’s always so inclusive to the cat who’s a bitch to him but you’re happy to know that he’s willing to protect all of you. He laughs with you, wiping away the tears that have fallen from your eyes, his touch as gentle as a mouse despite how large his hands are. 

“You’re the best fake husband, I hope you know that,” you mumble as you go back into his embrace. “I know I haven’t said it yet, but I appreciate everything you’ve done for us.” 

“Thank you Y/n, you’re the best fake wife too,” he whispers back, kissing the top of your head just like he did last night. 

Except this time there’s no one to fool, there’s no one to lie to. It’s just the two of you, and the subtle meaning behind his affection makes you wish that it was Mingyu you fell for all those years ago instead. 

…

Jihoon: I have an officer who’ll be patrolling the area, his name is Jun Wen. Here’s his badge number: ###### and picture. Just in case someone tries to come and impersonate him, also don’t mind if he’s a little weird, that's just how he is; and yes, he knows what he’s doing so don’t worry. You’re in safe hands. 

An eyebrow quirks up as you read the last part of his text wondering what he meant about “weird”. As if on cue, the sound of the doorbell reverberates throughout your house.  That must be him, you thought to yourself. 

Mingyu leaves his spot on the couch and goes to get the door. He's become extra protective of you since the call you had with Jihoon this morning. It allows you to relax a little knowing he’ll be the one to answer the door from now on. 

“Uh, Y/n? Why’s there some guy meowing at Norbert on our front porch?” Mingyu asks you with a puzzled expression on his face. 

“Huh?” you’re just as confused as he is, but you walk over to Mingyu with your phone in hand regardless. 

Looking down at the picture Jihoon sent and back at the man squatted beside Norbet, you realize this is what Jihoon meant about him being weird. From the picture that was sent, he looks like a perfectly normal guy, maybe he just really likes cats? You wondered to yourself.

“Oh that’s Jun, the guy Jihoon sent over,” you mumble, showing Mingyu the picture on your phone. 

“Huh,” Mingyu says, dumbfounded. 

Opening the door you don’t say anything, just watching the man named Jun make noises at your cat, who looks disgruntled and very annoyed at the random human disturbing his sleep. He’s dressed in normal clothing instead of a uniform, probably so that the neighbours don’t ask any questions. 

“Mah-ow, mahhh-owww,” Jun keeps on making weird noises, blissfully unaware of the two of you staring at him from the now-opened front door. 

“Uh excuse me, sir, what are you doing?” you call out to him, the confusion still very clear on your face. 

Norbert hears your voice, ears perking up before he slips past Mingyu’s legs to go back into the house. His little claws clack against the hardwood as he makes his way onto the couch to continue with his afternoon nap. 

“Aw man, you guys scared the cat away,” he sighs animatedly before standing up to greet the two of you with his hand out to shake. “Hi, my name’s Jun, I’ll make sure bad guys won’t come and attack.” 

You and Mingyu exchange looks before looking back at Jun, then back at each other again. This is definitely not the type of guy you were expecting, but Jihoon trusts him, and you trust Jihoon’s judgment. 

“We didn’t-uh, never mind, anyways I’m Y/n, this is Mingyu,” you start to explain that you're not the one to scare Norbet away, but you quickly change your mind. Instead, you return his handshake with a curt smile. 

“Well, I'll just be patrolling around the neighbourhood, you’ll see me parked a few houses down once in a while. If you need anything, here’s my number.” He hands you his card which is filled with doodles of cats. 

He really does like cats, you confirm. 

He walks away with a wave before going back into his car and driving off. Mingyu bursts out laughing, hands clutching his stomach before he sighs, wiping off fake tears from his eyes. 

“That’s the guy that’s going to be helping us? Really?” he chuckles, looking at you like you’d know the answer to Jun’s odd behaviour. 

“Hey, don’t ask me, ask Jihoon,” you slap his arm playfully before laughing with him. 

“Well, hopefully, nothing bad happens from now on, I honestly think we could manage without a bodyguard of sorts, or whatever he is,” Mingyu snorts, off put by Jun’s personality. 

“Jihoon appointed him, so I’m sure he’s well trained. He wouldn’t have sent him over otherwise,” you rationalize, not wanting to doubt the person who’s meant to be protecting you from Seungcheol. 

“Okay, you’re right. Let’s just go inside, I’ll make us kimchi pancakes,” Mingyu beckons, and you close the door behind you before following him to the kitchen. 

Jun being there just gives you an extra layer of reassurance, and you know Mingyu is just as capable, but it doesn’t hurt to have backup. Seungcheol is a smart man, and you’re not sure what tricks he has up his sleeve, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

…

“Okay so now we just have to mix the pajeon mix with the kimchi,” Mingyu instructs, once again wearing his pink ruffled apron, but this time you’re wearing a matching one. 

With your hair tied up, and hands messy with kimchi pancake mix, you follow every instruction that Mingyu gives you. It was his idea to teach you to cook, especially because he knows you’re not well-versed in the kitchen. 

“Now what?” you ask, looking up at him for guidance, but before you can instruct him you spot the flour splattered on his nose. “Hey, you’ve got a little bit of… lemme just—” 

Not realizing your hands were covered in the wet batter you end up getting the mixture all over his face too. Gasping at what you’ve just done, Mingyu looks at you with wide eyes before taking some of the batter in the bowl and smearing it on your face. 

“Hey! I didn’t mean to, why’d you do that?” you let out a boisterous laugh, running away from him before he could catch you again. 

“I know you did that on purpose!” he yells out, chasing you around the kitchen island in circles. 

“No, I didn’t! Stop chasing me!” you squeal as he starts to close the distance between you two. 

“Liar, I’m getting my revenge!” he laughs along with you, hot on your trail. 

The two of you run in circles for a while till you have to catch your breath, causing you to slow down. Mingyu takes this opportunity to finally be able to get a hold of you, wrapping his hands around your waist with little effort before placing you on the counter. 

“Say your final words now,” he fakes a serious tone, his crinkled as he tries to hold back his laughter. 

Before you can get another word in he tickles your sides causing you to squirm against him as your back hits the counter. The bowl filled with kimchi pancake mix is long forgotten, half empty because of how much of it got onto both your clothes. 

“Ok stop! I-I’m sorry I didn’t mean to, I promise,” your words getting cut off by your laughter, Mingyu not relinquishing his hold on you. 

He stops for a moment, his finger pointed at you, “You promise?” 

You nod innocently, his upper body flushed against yours, legs intertwined at his waist as he pins you down to the counter with his other hand. 

“Not!” you bite the finger pointed at you, but Mingyu’s reflexes are too fast, his large hands pinning your wrists to the counter once more. 

The two of you have calmed down considerably since then, both tired from running around the kitchen. Your laboured breaths are the only thing that can be heard within the confines of your home. Mingyu’s face is dangerously close to yours, and if you leaned forward your lips would touch. 

The pounding in your chest doesn’t subside and Mingyu’s eyes don’t leave yours. His strong arms are perfectly within your line of sight, and at this moment you feel like you and Mingyu are the only people in the whole world. There are no fears or doubts, no scary ex hunting you down. Just you and Mingyu. 

Without even thinking, you both lean forward and capture each other’s lips in a soft kiss. You can tell he’s unsure at first, his hands loosening around your wrists, being as careful with you as he was this morning when he wiped away your tears. But you want more. 

Pressing your lips against his with more vigour, your legs wrap around his waist to pull his pelvis closer to yours. A grunt leaves Mingyu’s lips, he takes this action as a signal to kiss you more passionately. His tongue laps against yours, his hands lifting you so you’re both upright. 

“Mingyu,” you whimper, feeling the wet open-mouthed kisses he begins to press against your neck. 

Before you can get any further, a cat meows beneath the two of you, his head turned in confusion. You pull away from him first, staring at your menacing cat, Fucking Norbert, you curse him out in your head before hopping off the counter and dusting yourself off. 

“I’m gonna go shower, then we can go back to making the pancakes,” you smile awkwardly up at Mingyu. 

“Oh okay, me too, yeah.” He scratches the back of his head. 

Before you head to the washroom in your room you turn around once more and give Mingyu a quick peck on the lips. His arms wrap around your waist, trying to deepen the kiss once more. But you stop him before he can go any further, laughing at how needy he has gotten. 

“Let’s do that more often,” you giggle before running off to the washroom. 

Mingyu sighs with content, his cheeks rosy from your flirting. With you gone, he sticks his tongue at Norbert in frustration. What a cockblock, he says to himself in his head. Norbert meows in response before walking back to his spot on the couch. 

No one’s ever made Mingyu feel the way you just did. At that moment he realized how fucked he is, you’re only here with him for the next eleven months, then what? Do you two go on with your lives separately? And you two are supposed to just forget everything? The more he thinks about it, the more determined he is to stay. The more determined he becomes to make you his and to give you the life you deserve. 

The love you deserve. 

nine. 

“Afternoon, Jun!” you wave from the porch as you see his car approaching your driveway, his windows down, hair flowing through the wind. 

He looks so carefree despite how important his job is, and it makes you a little envious of his lighthearted personality. He must have a happy life out of work because you swear no one is this lax with a job like his. 

“Good afternoon to you too, Y/n,” he gives you a big smile, his little satchel wrapped around him as he makes his way over to you. 

It’s been about a week since Jun has been patrolling the nieghbourhood, and Seungkwan’s asked a few questions about the cute but odd guy frequenting your house. The quickest lie that you could come up with was that he’s your best friend visiting from the city. You told him that he works at the home office and that he comes over from time to time to work on another project with you. 

After that day, Seungkwan stopped asking so many questions, leaving you alone to sit and read with Vernon on their porch.

“Do you want to have lunch with me and Mingyu?” you ask him. “He made enough that I know we would have leftovers otherwise.” 

“My wife packs my lunch actually and she doesn’t like it when I come home with a full container.” He shrugs, taking out the cutely wrapped rilakkuma bento box from his satchel. 

“What! That’s so cute, I bet you love her lunch boxes,” you giggle, marveling at how much care his wife had gone into packing him food for the day. 

He rubs the back of his neck as he lets out a bashful laugh, his cheeks turning red at the mention of his wife. 

“Well she’s the only one whose food tastes exactly like my mom’s, maybe I’ll bring her around so you can meet her!” Jun’s eyes shine as he talks about his wife, obviously, head over heels for her. 

You find it endearing how much his demeanor changes from silly Jun to an in-love Jun. The tight feeling in your chest doesn’t subside as you watch how he goes on about her, and their cats Open, Close, and Lock. It makes you wonder if anyone would talk about you that way, even when you’re not there, or when it’s not some lie to tell to your neighbours and their friends.  

“That’s so sweet Jun, what’s her name?” you ask, wondering if you could make a new friend out of her too. 

“June!” he replies, his smile as bright as the afternoon sun. 

“Her name is also June?” you try to get more clarification on her name. 

As if Jun himself couldn’t get any weirder, he has three cats named Open, Close, and Lock, as well as a wife with the same name as him. You try to process all this information but you feel like it’s too early in the day to be thinking so hard. 

“Yeah! I’m Jun without an E and she’s June with an E,” he answers proudly. 

You leave the Jun lore for another time, instead asking him about other things going on in his life. He’s not as bad as you thought he would be, and you find that he’s actually very fun to talk to. Jun’s actions are always so animated, using his hands a lot while he’s talking. It seems like you’ve made another friend yet again. 

As you two make your way to the kitchen, Mingyu can hear your laughter ring through his ears. Two sets of footsteps make their way over to him, he knows Jun is just here because it’s his job but can’t help but feel a twinge of jealousy. 

“Hey Jun,” Mingyu greets him flatly, not really into the fact that he’s the reason his wife is laughing so hard right now. 

He has no right to feel jealous but he can’t help it, especially after the kiss you two shared the other day. The two of you haven’t gotten that intimate since that kiss in the kitchen and even though he wants it to happen again, it has to be on your terms. Even though he craves you with each waking hour, he wants to make sure he isn’t overstepping any boundaries. 

“Jun is going to eat with us for lunch, is that okay?” You go up to him, placing a hand on his bicep before giving it a squeeze.

Mingyu’s cheeks flush at your small gesture of affection, his eyes moving from where your hand is placed to your eyes. Looking up at him with doe eyes, you smile at him. Even though he doesn’t like the idea of you and Jun laughing together, he could never say no to you. 

“Yeah, of course,” he returns your smile and you whisper a small thank you before placing a kiss on his cheek, walking away to watch T.V. with Jun on the couch. 

He stands at the stove, a pan of grilled chicken to pair with your salads. A hand comes up to touch the cheek that you kissed, he smiles to himself as he continues to cook lunch for you two. 

It seems as though every day he spends with you, the harder he’s falling. He can’t help it, especially when you’re much more affectionate with him now. 

He fantasizes about the day you decide to no longer sleep in separate rooms across the hall from each other, and getting to wake up to you and your beautiful face every morning.  He watches you laugh with Jun in the living room and silently wishes that you’ll fall as hard as he has.

ten.

With every passing day, the more you worry about Seungcheol’s whereabouts. You’re safe here, and people are looking over you but you can’t help but be paranoid. You wonder if you’re going to have to live every day in fear. But thankfully, with Mingyu beside you, it becomes a little more bearable. 

It wasn’t until today that you realized that you could finally breathe right. You awoke to another call from Jihoon, who seems to only call about important matters early in the morning. He suggests that you get Mingyu, wanting both of you to be on the call. 

Your mind is spiraling. The last time Jihoon called he had given you bad news. 

“What’s wrong Jihoon?” you ask him apprehensively, not sure if you’re mentally prepared to hear what he has to say. 

Both you and Mingyu sat on the couch with bated breaths, waiting for him to say something. Anything. Mingyu has an arm around you, your legs on top of his as he holds you close. He didn’t even have to say anything, his silence was enough to indicate how nervous he was. 

“Guys, don’t be so nervous, now I’m getting nervous!” he sighs. 

“I can’t take this, just say it already, you’re killing me over here Ji,” Mingyu whines, squeezing you a little tighter to soothe his nerves. 

“Well, we found him. Jun was able to put him in custody and he’s been at the station for a couple of hours now,” he finally reveals, hearing the two of you squeal like a bunch of school girls over the speakers. “I know you don’t want to see him Y/n, but if you want you can come down and talk to him. Closure and shit.” 

Mingyu looks over at you the moment Jihoon mentions you visiting your ex, and he can practically see the gears turning in your head. To be honest, you’re not sure if you’re ready to face him, but a part of you is curious about what he’s like now. 

“Okay, I’ll visit him, but only if Mingyu comes with me,” you mutter, playing with the hem of Mingyu’s shirt absentmindedly. 

You think of all the scenarios that could play out the moment you meet with Seungcheol again, but you know that if you want to shed the rest of your old self. You need to finally face him and gain the closure you deserve. 

And the closure that Seungcheol deserves too. 

…

For the rest of the day, you and Mingyu have a little self-care night before your confrontation with Seungcheol. Your nerves are at an all-time high, even Norbert could tell you were anxious; constantly staying by your side, even when you were showering, working, or eating. 

You weren’t sure what you were going to say to Seungcheol when you see him, or how you’re going to even feel. It’s been years since you’ve faced him, you just know that if Mingyu is there everything will be alright. 

For some reason, Mingyu’s presence always calms you down. His comforting words and strong demeanor help you stay afloat in your deep sea of worries. Just like Norbert, you don’t think he realizes these past few months with him have helped you overcome a lot of your paranoia. The more you got to know him, the more you recognized how soft and loving he really is, despite his past. 

“You have to stay still, okay?” you mumble as you continue to slather the face mask all over Mingyu’s skin. 

Sat on top of the bathroom counter, Mingyu stood between your legs as you concentrated on the task at hand. His own hands placed on the tops of your thighs as he waited patiently for you to finish. 

When he proposed a self-care night, you didn’t think he’d agree to go as far as doing skin care with you. Obviously, you were very wrong, and it kind of warms your heart that he’s willing to do even something as silly as this and then watch Bluey with you on the couch. 

“Y/n, it tickles,” he whines, hands gripping harder on your thighs as he fights the urge to laugh. 

“Do not laugh! You’ll ruin it,” you try not to giggle, your own face mask starting to crack. 

“Okay, sorry but you look so silly right now,” he chuckles, his eyes trained on you. 

Even with your hair tied up and a fluffy bunny-ear face wash headband, he still finds you beautiful. It doesn't matter to him what you look like, just the fact that you’re here, with him, it’s all he needs to be happy. 

“Done!” you flash a proud smile before hopping off the counter. 

Before you can leave the bathroom, Mingyu grabs your wrist and turns you around till you're flush with his chest. You raise an eyebrow at him, unsure of what he’s plotting right now. Instead of saying anything more he just places a peck on your lips before whispering a small “thank you”, letting you two carry on with your night. 

You just laugh and shake your head at him before heading over to the couch to watch more episodes of Bluey. Norbert claims his rightful spot beside you while Mingyu sits on your other side. 

Tomorrow may be scary and you have a lot of thoughts running through your head, but spending the night peacefully with Mingyu and Norbert silences your worries enough to relax in the meantime. What you don’t expect is the constant thought of wondering if this is what your life would be like every day if you decide to stay in Bridgewater after the year is over. 

eleven.

The car ride to the police station is quiet. Mingyu’s hand is in yours as he tries to console your overthinking. There isn’t much he can say to help you at this moment, but the least he can do is show you that he’s here. He doesn’t want to say anything that could potentially overwhelm you, he just wants to show you how much he cares. 

By the time the car reaches the station, your palms are drenched in sweat, but you want to stay strong. You want Seungcheol to know how happy you are now, without him. You want him to see how different you are now after all these years, how you’re better off without his tainted love. 

“Y/n, Mingyu,” Jihoon greets you at the door, nodding to you. 

The ever so stoic Jihoon. He’s a man of very few words but you could tell that he was rooting for you. 

The walk over to where Seungcheol was being interrogated felt longer than normal, but in reality, it only took a few seconds to reach the door. Jihoon gives you a look before opening the door, one that’s silently asking you if you’re sure. You only nod with a determined gleam in your eyes, allowing him to unlock the door and letting you see your ex after so many years. 

His black hair looks the same it did all that time ago, except it was longer now and a little messy from him running his fingers through it. You could tell he was exhausted, and it broke your heart a little. 

There are feelings of anger resurfacing the moment your eyes lock with his, but also feelings of sorrow and pity. You’re reminded of all the memories you made with him, the happiness, the sadness, and the solace in between. But you grieved the loss of your love with him a long time ago, and even though there are fragments of those feelings now, it doesn’t hurt as much as it used to. 

“Y/n,” Seungcheol’s voice cracks upon seeing you. 

Your chest burns and it feels like all the air in your lungs has dissipated. There’s a dullness to his gaze, almost like he’s a mere shell of the person he used to be. You should’ve known that Seungcheol lost his soul all those years ago when he decided to sell it for never-ending wealth. But here he is, in front of you: defeated, tired, heartbroken. There’s a small part of you that will always care for him, yet you know that you’ll never love him the way you used to. 

“Cheol,” you whisper, your back against the door, your body not wanting to get any closer to him than you have to.

“Y/n, please I never wanted us to end up this way, please. Please,” he tries to beg, to stand up, but his hands are handcuffed to the table. His wrists have turned red from trying to escape from his chains. It’s no use, he won’t ever be able to get as close as he is now. 

A single tear falls from your eyes watching his desperate attempts to reach you. But the room feels far too big now like the two of you are miles apart. So you stay put and tell him what you’ve been wanting to say after so many years.

“You dug your own grave, Seungcheol. I tried, I did. But how could you keep all that information from me? Selling illegal weapons may be one thing, but involving all those innocent people? Did you lose your damn mind? I couldn’t live with myself knowing how many people you hurt. Then you turned to drug trafficking? Did you really think I could marry someone like that?” you raise your voice at the end. 

Your chest is heaving from not taking a single breath to stop, to think, just saying whatever your heart is telling you to say. 

“Y/n, please! Hear me out, I want to make it work-” he begs and begs, but you cut him off.  

“There’s nothing to work out.”  

“I just wanted to have a secure future with you, I was going to quit after our wedding, please you have to believe me,” he keeps going, but you don’t want to hear it anymore. 

You scoff at his attempt to justify his actions, but you know better. The man in front of you will say anything to get you back into his life, but you don’t buy his bullshit. The more money he earned, the greedier he got, and the higher his ambitions got, he wasn't the man he was when you first met him. The constant reminder of him leading a dark path keeps you grounded. 

“You lost me the moment you decided to hurt people who don’t deserve it.” Your voice is stern, you don’t want to continue to drag this out knowing all he’s going to do is plead for you to come back to him. 

“Y/n please, I can’t live without you, even after all these years, I can’t sleep, nothing. I need you.” The tears begin to leave his eyes, but you do your best to stay strong. 

All you can do is shake your head at him, his words going through one ear and out the other. His sobs and pleading shake you to your core, but it doesn’t hurt to hear after knowing all the evil things he’s done. 

“But I don’t need you, I’m happy, I’m in love again. I have friends that care about me,” you countered.

 You're breathing heavily, trying to stay as calm as possible. You had no more tears left to shed for him. 

“It’s Mingyu isn’t it?” he asks, but you don’t give him any indication that his prediction is correct. 

Your heartbeat picks up at the mention of Mingyu’s name, and you’re not sure how Seungcheol found out about the two of you. At this point you don’t even care, because the happiness you deserve is waiting for you outside the very door you stand against. No one will get in the way of the reason why you’re able to breathe right again, especially not Seungcheol.

“That doesn't matter,” you defended, not wanting to speak to him for any longer. 

“But it does. Just tell me it’s not Mingyu, anyone but him please,” he continues to cry, the rattling of his handcuffs burning your eardrums. 

You’ve gotten your closure, the figurative shackles that Seungcheol had you in are finally broken. There’s a sense of relief to being able to face him without completely breaking down. Your heart no longer belongs to him, and neither do your fearful thoughts. 

“I don’t owe you anything anymore Seungcheol. Goodbye.” You end the conversation, turning around to close the door without looking back. 

His pleading can be heard through the metal, but you don’t dare turn back, you don’t dare to let him have his hold on you anymore. Closing the door of the interrogation room felt like closing the door to a chapter of life. And finally, after everything that has happened, you feel free. 

“You’re in love with me?” Mingyu’s voice is heard through all the commotion. 

He stands there with a hopeful look in his eyes, a small smile dancing along his lips. You roll your eyes at him as if it wasn’t already obvious how much you care for your fake husband. 

Walking up to him, you engulf him in a tight hug, your head buried in his chest as tears of relief leave your eyes. 

“Of course I’m in love with you, you big idiot,” you laugh, holding him tighter, so tight that you’re sure that he’ll never leave your side, even if he wanted to. 

twelve. 

The drive back to the house felt like a breath of fresh air. Wind blowing through your hair with the windows rolled down, Mingyu’s hand on your thigh, music blasting through the speakers. It felt like freedom. 

“Can I hear you say it again?” Mingyu turns to you while he’s stopped at a red light, his puppy-dog eyes are too cute to resist. 

“I love you,” you smile at him, placing your hand on top of his. 

The glistening in his eyes looked like it came straight out of a movie, they glittered in the sunlight, a reflection of his very being. 

“I love you too, did you know that?” he blushes, giving you a sweet kiss before returning his attention to the road. 

The two of you stay quiet for the rest of that way back, savouring the sweet moment. You still can’t wrap your head around everything that has happened during your stay at Bridgewater, especially because you’ve somehow found love again. A love that’s sweet, one that doesn’t feel as worrisome. 

“Home sweet home!” Mingyu announces the moment the car rolls into the driveway. 

You’re brought out of your thoughts and Mingyu gets out to open the door for you. The second the door closes he cages you between him and the side of the car. His lips softly hit yours and you moan out of surprise. The kiss is slow and sweet, and butterflies erupt in your stomach immediately. 

You haven’t kissed him properly since that day in the kitchen but you don’t mind the wait. If anything it causes you to feel hungry for more. Mingyu’s hands on your waist are pulling you tighter with each passing second, but making out in the middle of your driveway, where everyone in the neighbourhood can see, pulls you out of your lustful thoughts. 

“Let’s go inside?” You detach your lips from his, grabbing his hand and practically dragging him towards the front door. 

Once you two are inside, without any potential prying eyes you pull him back into a kiss. It’s sloppy and filled with more passion than the previous times you two were this close. You don’t want to stop feeling him against you. The firm grip he has on your waist travels under your shirt, his hands against your bare skin leaving a burning sensation in the best way. 

There’s a silent agreement between the two of you. You both know where this is heading but no one stops to take a break, to tell the other that it is time to let go. You continue to deepen the kiss, letting your tongue glide against his, your fingers running through his hair. It's addicting, Mingyu’s lips are intoxicating and all you want is to get lost in the arousal. 

“I wanna make you feel good, so good till all you can remember is me, no one else,” Mingyu mumbles against your neck, his lips trailing lower as you whimper in approval. “Tell me, is that what you want?” 

“Yes,” you whimper, eyes closed as you feel him lick and suck the skin on your collarbone.  

Backing away, you can see how the love and adoration in his eyes are tainted with hunger. The sight of him makes your stomach flip, there’s a darkness to his gaze and you gulp silently. Waiting for him to show you how badly he wants to fuck you, how badly he needs to see you whimper and moan for him. 

Without another word you bring him to your room, closing the door behind you so Norbert can’t interrupt like he did last time. 

The door is against your back once again and Mingyu towers over you, caging you with his body. His scent fills your senses, your knees going weak as he continues to stare at you with those hooded lids, his attention on you and you only. 

His hand trails against your jaw till he stops at your chin, tilting your face up so that your eyes are leveled with his. He licks his lips as he watches you, wanting nothing but to take you then and there. But he has so much planned, he can’t get too hasty, especially because the thought of you cumming for him over and over continues to plague his mind. 

“I want you to sit on the bed, and to be a good girl and take what I give you,” Mingyu mutters, his hand moving closer to your lips till his thumb pulls your bottom lip down. 

You don’t argue, moving away once again to do what he says. This is the Mingyu you used to know. The one who spent half his life in the mafia, the one who could command a whole room with a single word. 

Following behind you, he waits till you get comfortable on the bed before sitting down between your already spread legs. He captures you into a kiss once more, letting himself savour the taste of you. Your hands move across the expanse of his back, slowly lifting his shirt along the way and feeling his large muscles tense under your gentle fingers. 

“Fuck me, please,” you beg him, and your voice is strained, the words leaving your mouth in whimpers. 

Mingyu chuckles at your desperation as he removes the rest of his clothing, but your mind is buzzing like crazy. It’s been so long since you’ve been intimate with someone that you forgot how good it feels to be held, to be kissed. 

“Be patient baby, we’ll get to that eventually,” he grunts, lifting your shirt and removing the remainder of your clothes till you're bare. 

Marveling at your naked figure, Mingyu forces himself to stop drooling over how sexy you look in front of him. You’re so small compared to him, his large hands opening up your thighs to reveal your awaiting arousal. 

“You’re already fucking soaking,” he mutters as he prods with your folds. His fingers move gingerly as he teases you. 

His arms push your thighs till they’re flush with your stomach, giving him clear access to where you need him most. Trailing kisses along your inner thighs, your head hits the pillow as you moan out for him. You’re over-sensitive from not being touched by another person in so long, his lips leaving burning sensations on your skin. 

Your pussy is dripping on the sheets the moment he presses a kiss to your clit. Clenching around nothing, you continue to moan out his name, and it makes him smile against you. Hearing you call out for him is like music to his ears, your voice sweet like honey. 

“Keep doing that, please Mingyu,” you whine, your hands coiling around the strands of his hair, nails raking his scalp. 

Groaning against your mound, he continues to play with your clit. Licking and sucking it while his fingers enter your weeping hole. The sounds of his long digits moving in and out of you fill the room, and you can feel yourself getting closer to an orgasm. 

“Fuck, it’s so good,” you praise him, and it strokes his ego, his movements picking up in pace. 

The squelching noises only increase in volume, his fingers hitting that soft spot inside you that makes your legs shake and your vision goes white. Practically screaming his name, the coil in your stomach snaps and you cum against his mouth. His tongue moved against your slit to drink up your juices, wanting to feel you fill his mouth with your sweet nectar. 

His eyes remain trained on yours while he’s lying between your legs, you run your hands through his hair as you come down from your high. The words can’t seem to leave your lips and your mind is filled with euphoria. If he can do all that with just his mouth and fingers you wonder what will happen when he’s finally inside you. 

“God, you’re so needy. Probably haven’t been fucked properly in so long, huh baby?” he coos as he moves up your body, lips against your ear as he continues to mutter dirty words. 

“Need someone to take care of you? Is that what you need? Need your husband to fuck a baby into you,” he keeps going and your eyes roll back and he fondles your tits. 

“Yeah, you like that?” he chuckles, twisting at your hardened nipples as your pussy clenches at the thought of being filled with his cum. 

“You like it when I talk about fucking you till that tight little cunt of yours is stuffed full of my cum?” Mingyu’s mouth continues to spew words of breeding you, and his growing erection is harder to ignore. 

“I want it so bad, want you to fuck a baby in me, Gyu,” you sigh, your salacious moans bouncing off the walls as he flips you around. 

Ass in the air, he gives the supple skin a sharp slap and you shriek. But it feels so good, the sting of his large palm hitting you hard. He can see how much you’re enjoying it, kneading your full mounds as his head fills with thoughts of fucking you in this position. 

“Please just fuck me already, I wanna feel you inside me.” You’re weeping now, face smushed into the pillow. 

“You sure you’re ready?” he asks you, pulling you by your hips till your back is arched. 

The neediness inside you is at its highest point, and you can’t seem to form any words as you feel his fingers glide against your soaked hole. Moans can’t stop leaving your lips and you’re already sensitive from your first orgasm. 

Placing a pillow under your stomach, he continues to manhandle you into the position he wants you in. Face down, ass up, your legs are spread, and your wet entrance is all ready for him.  Mingyu grabs his hard cock, stroking it a few times before spitting on your cunt, and you jolt at the hot liquid hitting your folds. 

“Fuck, you’re tight, I should’ve prepped you more,” Mingyu groans, his length slowly forcing its way past your entrance. 

The air is knocked out of your lungs as you feel him starting to fill you. The stretch is agonizing but the burn sends tingles of pleasure up your spine. It felt so fucking good having him inside you like this, your mind full of nothing but the shape of his cock. 

“I want it hard, fuck me hard,” you tell him, your voice shaking as he continues to enter you. 

“Okay baby, but just know I won’t be gentle anymore,” he warns you and maybe you shouldn’t have been so eager, but that primal part in you just wanted him so bad. 

Once he has himself fully sheathed in your heat, he pulls back until only the tip is left. You gasp at the sudden empty feeling, but you're quickly silenced when he dives back in. His hips slapping against your ass, his balls hitting your clit. Mingyu’s stamina is insanely high as he continues to thrust in and out of you. 

“Fuck, you’re so big, I-I can’t!” you cry out, your screams picking up in pitch till you're moaning like a porn star. 

“So fucking tight, baby you’re driving me crazy,” Mingyu continues to grunt, his movements not slowing down for even a second. 

His hands move to grip your hips tightly, he stops for a split second to stop his thrusts. You thought you were going to be able to catch your breath. But he just keeps surprising you. The hands that he placed on your hips tighten and he moves you up and down on his cock while he stays still. Using you like his personal sex doll, but fuck, it felt amazing. You love that he’s using you, placing your body in whatever position he wants to chase his own pleasure. 

“You’re so perfect, I could fuck this pussy till I’m empty,” he mutters, watching his dick disappear inside you. 

There's a white ring of arousal around the base of his length, and his mind goes blank. All he can do is continue to bounce you up and down his member till he can feel himself start to twitch inside you. 

“I’m gonna cum, baby you feel so good inside me,” you scream for him, loving the way the ridges of your walls continue to suck him up, your orgasm hitting you once again,

There's something so nasty about him using your body, and you’re enjoying all of it. You love how he’s just taking what he wants, yet he still knows how to make you cum. Your pussy is swollen from the beating it’s taking, but you want more. You want him to keep going till he has nothing left to give you. 

The feeling of Mingyu twitching inside your walls indicates that he’s close, and you continue to clench around him. Wanting to milk him of his seed, wanting to feel his cum hit your cervix and breed you. 

“Gonna cum inside you, okay baby?” he warns you before stilling his movements. 

His cock twitches again till you feel his hot white cum spurt inside your walls, flooding your cunt with his seed. Mingyu groans, watching the liquid fill you and breach past your tight hole till it gushes out. The sight is so unholy, so sinful but he can’t just stop there. No, he won’t stop till you’re stuffed properly. 

“M-mingyu, baby,” you whine, your body flopping onto the mattress as he lets you go. 

Your legs turn to jelly as you shake from how hard you came, your breathing labored. He turns you around so you're splayed out for him, prying your legs open to watch his cum fall out of your pussy in thick globs. It’s so mesmerizing, hypnotizing, he wants to see more of it. To fill you with more of his seed. 

“We’re not done,” he smiles as you cheekily and you laugh. 

“You want more after all of that?” you question him, your breathing still harsh from the previous round. 

“Baby, after all of that, I don’t think I can stop,” he mutters against your lips, and you nod, agreeing with his statement. 

He switches your positions, his back against the headboard while you sit on his lap. The refractory period doesn't seem to exist with Mingyu because his erection is standing proudly in front of you. 

“You wanna go again?” he asks you, one hand on your hip as the other rubs his cock as it glistens with a mixture of both of your arousals. 

“I want you to use me till you can’t anymore,” you lean over, whispering in his ear. 

“Careful, you might regret that later,” he mutters, a hand around your neck as he halts your movements.

Pulling him into a heated kiss, you position his length against your entrance, lifting your body till you can fully sink down on him. Even after the first round, your pussy still can’t get used to the stretch that his cock gives you. It's a delicious feeling, his length is so long and thick you can feel it in your stomach. 

“Ah!” you cry out, your head thrown back as you stabilize yourself by holding onto his shoulders. 

Mingyu moans back, mesmerized by the view of your tits bouncing up and down in front of his face. His cock disappeared inside you once more, the sight making him feral, hungry to see you filled to the brim with his semen. 

Your orgasm comes around faster this time and your walls convulse around him once more. The heat, the wetness, the silky feeling of your cunt makes Mingyu go delirious, thoughts only filled with you and you only. Stilling your hips, his own high follows yours shortly after, his cum hitting your insides till it covers his softening member all over again. 

You let out a puff of breath, leaning into his chest as your face rested in the crook of his neck. Mingyu rubs your back soothingly, his dick going soft and falling out of your entrance. Whimpering at the loss of him being inside you, you hold him tighter. The feelings of exhaustion are finally catching up to you, but you know you’ll have to clean up soon enough. 

“You know I love you, right?” he reminds you as he lifts you up and off the bed to head to the shower. You can only nod, your mind and body too tired to respond. 

Setting you on the counter, his back turns away from you while he prepares your bath, getting the water warm for you. You notice the large dragon tattoo that coils along his skin. It surprises you that you haven’t noticed it before, but the black ink on him is undeniably sexy. 

Once the water is warm enough, he carries you to the shower before cleaning you up properly. You love that he’s back to his soft and kind self, and it makes you fall for him even harder. The hard sex was so good but what’s important to you is the fact that he’s so keen on taking care of you after. 

Mingyu’s hand snakes around your waist as your head lays against his shoulder, pressing lazy kisses while you whisper words of gratitude. 

“Thank you, I love you too,” you mumble, adorning him with pecks along his warm tan skin. 

epilogue. 

“This whole fucking time,” Seungkwan stares at you with wide eyes, “I fucking KNEW it.” 

You scoff at him, he just had to be right about everything and it annoys you, but here you are again, in his home for drinks and dessert. 

“Sure you did, Kwannie,” you sigh, patting his shoulder. 

“I swear I did! Right, babe? They were suspicious from the start,” he continues to argue, roping in Vernon who gives him a shrug of his shoulders before returning his attention to his phone. 

It was time for you and Mingyu to break the news about your fake relationship with everyone. You felt bad for deceiving people, and now that you two were actually in love, it just felt right to put the fake marriage thing in the past. 

“Please, we weren’t that obvious,” you defend, not wanting to give Seungkwan the bragging rights to actually be right this whole time. 

Seungkwan just rolls his eyes at you before taking a sip of his wine. He didn’t feel like arguing with you anymore, he’s just happy that his suspicions have been correct this whole time. 

“Does this mean you’re going to leave soon?” He looks at you with desperate eyes, taking your hands in his. 

“Well, we’ve talked about it, and Mingyu and I have decided to stay,” you smile at him from where he sits across the room, talking about something unimportant with Jeonghan and Val. “So don’t worry, I’ll still be your neighbour. Bridgewater actually seems like the perfect place for us right now.” 

“Oh thank god! I don’t think I could live happily ever again if you moved away, Y/nie.” He pulls you into a hug, and you can’t help but laugh at his dramatics. 

Seungkwan may have started as a pestering neighbour, but you can’t help but feel grateful towards him. If it weren’t for his annoying attitude, you and Mingyu probably wouldn’t have tried so hard to pretend to be in love. You could say that Seungkwan was one the biggest reasons why you and Mingyu fell so hard for each other in the first place. 

…

A few days after solidifying your relationship with Mingyu, you two decided that it wouldn’t be too bad to stay here after all. Seungcheol was sentenced guilty during trial and Jihoon informed you that there's no more reason for you to be put into witness protection. Everything just seemed like it was all falling into place, and you’re happier than you have been in so long. 

Even Norbert has finally warmed up to Mingyu. Sometimes when your work day is over, you’ll spot them cuddling on the couch and watching Bluey together. He always talks to Norbert, asking him questions even though the cat can’t answer. It warms your heart knowing that the two beings that healed you from a world’s worth of hurt can get along. They both came into your life when you needed it most, and every day you're thankful that you’re surrounded by so much love. 

“Watching Bluey without me?” you ask out loud, your arms crossed as you pretend to be mad. 

“Baby! You’re done!” Mingyu practically flies off the couch to capture you in a bone-crushing hug. 

“You know you can come into my office when I’m working,” you laugh as you rub his back, savouring the feeling of his large and muscular arms holding you. 

“I know but I don’t want to distract you, even Norbert doesn't go in,” he mumbles, inhaling your scent as if he didn’t wake up beside you that very morning. 

“You’re silly, Mingyu,” you laugh, kissing his cheek. 

He blushes like a schoolgirl before giving you the biggest grin known to man. His eyes sparkling against the living room lighting, you can tell he’s head over heels for you. Mingyu isn’t afraid to show affection or to be vulnerable, he just wants to be with you, no matter how good or bad things get. 

“Can’t I just be happy my wife is off work?” He sighs lovingly, brushing your hair through his fingers, refusing to let you go. 

You roll your eyes at how cheesy he is, but he knows that you secretly love it. Especially since you act the same way with him whenever he goes out to run errands or when he tends to the garden. 

“Your wife is hungry and tired, can we make more kimchi pancakes please?” you ask with puppy dog eyes. 

Mingyu laughs at you before kissing your forehead, “Anything for the love of my life.” 

Blushing at his words, you follow him into the kitchen to make the kimchi pancakes you had asked for. Putting on his pink ruffle apron, he gets down to business, always wanting to cook the best food for you. 

Mingyu is satisfied knowing that he’s able to give you the life that you deserve. To love you on sunny days and even on rainy days. He’s never felt a love that was this secure, and he’s grateful that you feel the same way. 

As you watch Mingyu cook, you think back to the first day you moved to Bridgewater. You misjudged him that first day and you’re so glad that he proved you wrong. He has been nothing but amazing since then. He’s patient, and kind, and he loves you even when you’re irritated or in a bad mood. For someone who used to be a part of the mafia, you would expect him to be rough around the edges, and intimidating, but he’s the complete opposite. He’s the perfect house husband. 

end. 

𖥔 a/n: you've reached the end of my hubbygyu fic! thank you for reading and please leave an ask or comment if you've enjoyed this story :)! but wait... there's more! this story will become a series that takes inspiration from the anime ( the way of the house husband) so please look forward to seeing more of wifey y/n and hubby gyu! thank you again ♡.

You Can't Get Rid Of Me

Pairing : Kim Mingyu x Reader

Genre : Angst, Slightly Suggestive

Warnings : Mentions of murder and running away

Having your marriage arranged by your parents, your boyfriend thinks that it's best to part ways but you're not ready to give up on what you both have.

"Y/n, it's best if we break up. Trust me, I don't want this either but you know your parents. They will kill us for sure," Mingyu's voice was barely a whisper but his words pierced through your ears. You chest tightens for a second.

"So? You're asking me to marry the old man?" you ask.

"If I can, I'll marry you right now, Y/n. It's just........ impossible," his reply makes you fume.

In a flash, you had him pinned down against the couch, with your hands placed on the soft material beside his head. Your legs trapped his own ones. Mingyu's face was flushed red and he looked away from you.

Tears brimmed in your eyes as you speak, "I can run away the night before the wedding or I can poison the old man the next time he comes to visit. My parents won't bother looking for me because afterwards I'll be a disgrace to the family. Even if you don't do anything, at least have some faith in our relationship like I do," droplets of angry tears fall on his face.

Mingyu flinches, the guilt of hurting you heavy in his chest.

"I'm sorry, Y/n. I promise I won't make you cry ever again. I'll- I'll marry you. We'll get away from this horrible place where we aren't allowed to love"

A small smile forms on your lips. You lean in and press your lips against his. Instantly, all you worries were washed away.

Mingyu doesn't take too long to kiss you back. He cups your face with his large hands and presses back harder, gently biting your lower lip in the process. You grip his hair and it makes him groan.

You pull away and stare at him, "Don't think you can get rid of me easily, Kim Mingyu. Whether you like it or not, I'm your future wife"

Mingyu grins cheekily, despite his flushed face.

"Seems like I'm stuck with you"

↶*ೃ✧˚. ❃ ↷ ˊ- ↶*ೃ✧˚. ❃ ↷ ˊ-

my lil universe

“mingyu one shot”

Pairing: Kim Mingyu x female reader

Genre: Fluff, slice of life

Warnings: mention of pregnancy 

Word count: 1.6 K

A/N: this idea suddenly popped in my mind, i wonder how happy would be mingyu and he will be a great dad, I just known it. Hope you all enjoy reading this~

Happy reading <3

I kissed her forehead, “you know I am so happy” and tugged her hair strands falling on her face, she was facing me. “I love you so much” she smiled and held my hand which was resting on her cheeks, “I love you too, that’s why don’t worry too much, your mum will be here from today and you can go and live in dorms for few days. I know it will be a bit hard but, you know I am strong and I will never come in between your work life mingyu, never” I kissed her again.

“You need to call me, if anything happens, I will come running to you,” she nodded in my embrace. she took my hand, which was on her cheeks to her stomach, the bump, I could feel it “baby’s happy mingyu, so don’t worry too much”

“your due date is this week, and I’ve concert for two days this week, I won’t be able to take care of you” I was feeling sorry towards her, because of the concert, I have to go back to dorm, because of the tight schedule and since last two weeks I could barely be with her, thanks to my sister, who was here and my mum will be coming here tomorrow. During these weeks I couldn’t be with her, I can’t do anything because of the tight schedule and she understands it. I want to give her all the love, and happiness and of course to our precious baby.

“thank you so much for everything Emmi” I kissed her,

“Mingyu, you are with me, I can never ask for anything more, I know you’re busy but you are taking care of me, all these days, you took care of my weird cravings, my rants, my neverending mood swings and everything, how can I thank you enough.” She looked at me with her lovely eyes, “love, that’s my job, to take care of you. There’s a part of me inside you, and you’re my responsibility” I pecked her. She smiled at me again, “now get some sleep, I will have to go early morning tomorrow” she nodded and we cuddled all night.

[Present]

“What are you thinking Mingyu?” I looked at Dokyeom, “about Emmi” I sighed, I haven’t seen her since Sunday, it was Sunday morning when I left home and the last text I sent was the day before yesterday, I am so worried about her. “Emmi? Don’t worry, idiot she will be okay and both your sister and mother are with her. Call her today after concert ends, it’s our last day.”

“Yes!”

“Don’t be worried and enjoy our last day” he smiled at me, he’s right, I missed CARATs so much, so we will do our best today.

[After Ending-ment]

I went to backstage, everyone was so exhausted, so was I.

“MINGYU!! MINGYU!!” I heard Myungho’s voice as soon I sat down on the couch, I didn’t even had the energy to reply him back.

“MINGYUUU!” I heard him again, I know he will come to me anyway. There was a water bottle in front of me, I took it. “YAH KIM MINGYU REPLY HIM” I looked at Seungcheol, he gave him a look, “KIM MINGYU” I heard Dokyeom this time, what’s wrong with these two. They never shout like this. I drank water and got up, “what happened myungho” I was about to walk out of the room, and felt a tight hug. I was surprised for a second, what happened to him.

“Where is your phone?” he released me and asked me, “I don’t know, what’s wrong??” I panicked, I had no idea what’s going on, everyone in the room got tensed and Myungho was not saying a single thing to me. I started searching for my phone, “call me anyone,” “I am trying, and I think it’s on silent or DND mingyu” Woozi hyung said, I was about to throw my hands, everyone started searching for my phone. “Mingyu calm down” I heard Shua hyung, “I AM TRYING”

“Mingyu hyung your phone was in the bag” Dino, handed me the phone, I unlocked it quickly. I saw 10 missed calls from my sister, 5 from my mum and 15 missed calls from Emmi. I was getting tense, I have no idea, I walked towards Myungho, “why were you searching for me?” and showed him my phone

“CONGRATULATIONS MINGYU, YOU’RE A DAD” I froze, the moment I heard his voice, I couldn’t heard anything else, I felt like I was dreaming. “your sister called me from Emmi’s phone, since you weren’t picking up the call, she called me just before we did our ending-ment and I was trying to tell you since then but being the big boy you’re, god”

“OF COURSE, WHY WOULD I LIE IDIOT” he laughed and I hugged him tight, everyone in my room, congratulated me. “Mingyu go, and check on them, we will go and meet you two, wait not two anymore, your family consists of three members right now, so we will go and meet you three soon, send the name of the hospital in the group” Seungcheol said, I nodded and called my sister’s number. She picked up after two rings

I held Myungho’s shoulders, and started shaking him, “are you telling me the truth??”

“Go on” they waved at me

“YAH!!”

“Send me the name of the hospital I’m coming” I cut her off, and looked at the members “I am going guys” I took my bag

“Mingyu” Dokyeom called me, I looked back at him, he threw a t-shirt at me, “change into this in the car and meet them, they definitely don’t want to smell your sweat” everyone started laughing, I took the shirt and I started running out of the room

“sent, you check and come fast, your wife is missing you way too much ” I nodded and hung up. I told my manager, and he told me, he will drop me.

I got into the car, and showed the address to my manager, I quickly changed my tee to the one Dokyeom gave. I can’t stay still; I feel so happy. I looked at my lockscreen, it was our picture, Emi and me, I can’t believe a new member will be joining us, from today. I want to see the little baby, I wonder how would I feel to hold the baby in my arms.

After a good twenty minutes, our manager stopped the car, “Mingyu we are here”

“Thankyou so much, and please don’t wait for me. I need to go now thankyou hyung” I got out of the car, and went inside the hospital running. I wore the mask and ran towards the reception. “Mrs Kim Emmi”

“just a second sir” she paused for a second, “ward no 505, fourth floor” and then she looked at me, probably she recognized me, “congratulations sir” and smiled at me. “thankyou”

I went to the elevator and I couldn’t wait to reach fourth floor. The elevator door opened and ran out of it, I was checking the numbers one after one. Then I saw 503, I slowed down my pace and walked ahead, 504, and then I saw the name below the 505 ‘kim emmi’

I opened the door and removed the mask from my face. I saw Emmi, holding a baby, mum, sister and doctor. I walked towards the doctor, “Congratulations Mingyu, you’ve a baby daughter now and both of them are safe.” He patted my shoulder, I didn’t realize my tears were falling. “Now please excuse me” and the doctor walked away, “we will be outside, so take your time” I heard my sister and then they left.

“Mingyu….” I heard the soft lovely voice calling out my name, I walked to her, there see was on the bed, sitting and holding the our baby daughter. I wiped my tears, “Mingyu… you are a dad now” I kissed her forehead and closed my eyes. I sat on the stool, near her. “She’s so pretty” I looked at her, “I am so proud of you Emmi, thankyou Emmi, for everything, I love you” I saw her getting teary, and my tears were threating to fall. I told myself I won’t cry but, how could not I? my whole universe is infront of my eyes, right now.

“What should we name her, she have your eyes, and smile, mingyu”

“Scarlet, we can call her Scarlet, looking at her, she gives me joy and reminds of passion and courage. I want to call her Scarlet” I told her, Emmi kissed her, “okay Scarlet, daddy named you” Scarlet giggled at her, I couldn’t be happier.

“Mingyu, try and hold her. She missed you” Emmi started crying, “Shhh, love don’t cry” I wiped her tears. I tired taking Scarlet from her embrace, carefully. “aww come to daddy, love” and held her in my embrace. she looked so pretty and soft, “she’s so pretty Emmi, just like you” I looked at her.

I looked at Scarlet, my tears fell, I was holding back, but they finally fell. I couldn’t be happier than this, this is my happiness.

I turned to look at Emmi, “I love you so much Emmi”, she smiled “I love you more Mingyu”.

we are not strangers anymore

“Mingyu one shot”

a drabble for @tasteslikenostalgiaa  from your secret Santa, Merry Christmas ❄️

Secret Santa event by @caratwritersclub

Pairing: Kim Mingyu x female reader, (feat Minghao)

Genre: fluff, strangers to friends

Warnings: it’s a fluff so no warnings

Word count: 1.3K

Author’s Note: When I started writing I was so confused how to write and what to write, then I ended up choosing this trope. This trope is very new to me, I tried making it a bit sweet, hope that worked and I really hope you will like this Tan, and wishing you Merry Christmas 🎄❄️ and I would be posting this on a time (your b’day date as time), I thought this would a be sweet gesture for you.  

Hopefully you’ll like this Tan~  happy reading <3

And this was my first time taking part in secret santa event by carat writers club, and I enjoyed it a lot, thankyou for giving me such an amazing friend, and I love this event!

I was looking at the painting in the museum, solo museum dates were something always comforting to me. It felt like art always connects me to a different world, like my escape. Art is always something I feel they speak the way no one could and they comfort me. I feel like it’s home. Home isn’t always a place, it can be something or someone that makes you feel safe. 

I was walking and looking at all the art pieces with a deep thought, I heard a click sound and was caught off guard. ‘did someone recognize me?’ ‘but I tried my best to cover myself’ these thoughts came flooding to my mind, and I turned around and bowed.

The moment I turned my head, I saw two guys and soon recognized them as Mingyu and Minghao. They were around the same age but they were my seniors in the company. Like how can you not recognize THE Kim Mingyu and THE Xu Minghao.

“Oh?” I got startled because of Minghao’s voice and I saw Mingyu lowering the camera.

Did he recognize me? I doubt that because, if we ever interacted with eachother, it was mostly because of company and some projects or like collabs for dance challenges, I guess.

“Hello” Mingyu smiled at me.

“Hello” I smiled at him, he could probably see my smiling because of my eyes, because I’m wearing a mask.

“Sorry if I startled you” he looked apologetic, I shook my head, “No no, it’s fine”

“You like art?” I turned to look at Minghao, I nodded.

One thing I was sure now, they recognized me. “Do you want to join us? Or are you on a solo date?” Mingyu was surely an extrovert. I was about to say something then he spoke, “don’t think we will get uncomfortable, because we will rather get one more company who enjoys art” his smile, there’s something I couldn’t resist anymore, he is always so humble and kind with everyone.

“Okay then” I smiled. “Let’s go and check out the remaining two” only two art works were left, I was walking with them to check them out. It felt like I got a new company for few minutes. Solo dates are fine but when someone joins you unexpectedly, it just makes everything a bit better.

“Do you come and visit museums usually?” I looked at Minghao, I nodded, “Yes, because I feel home” I smiled, hoping he would understand how I feel.

“That’s amazing” and we both smiled. He looked so genuine, when he was talking about art. He is someone who loves art, I feel more connected to him at times. Being my senior at the company, I always looked up to him. He amazes me a lot and I admire him a lot.

“Have you eaten something?” I looked at Mingyu when we were walking out from the museum, I shook my head. “I had breakfast and didn’t had lunch yet” I told him the truth, “Well you can join us, if you’re okay with it” I thought for a second, Mingyu looked humble while inviting me for lunch, but I was almost a stranger for him and Minghao, we never interacted exclusively but he is inviting me over a lunch, it melted my heart, and when someone asks me ‘have you eaten?’ it always touched me; maybe because at times I forget to eat because I get busy? it’s one of the sweetest gesture anyone could make for me.

“Are you okay?” I looked at Mingyu, I was taken aback with his question because how worried he looked, then I realized I was starting to tear up because I felt overwhelmed then I nodded and smiled.

“I’m okay, I was just a bit surprised and overwhelmed” there was no reason to hide I guess “we never interacted with each other, like this and I was surprised when both of you recognized me even when I am wearing a mask right now. And then giving me company and inviting me over lunch, I felt a bit overwhelmed.” I avoided his gaze for a second.

Minghao smiled and I looked at him, “we are idols, even you recognized us, although we are wearing masks right now” he smiled again. I was about to argue and tell them that how am I not supposed recognize them? And Mingyu cut me off with his words.

“And we are not strangers Y/N, it’s just we never got a chance to interact exclusively till now and we would be glad if you could join us because we would be getting a friend. Three of us are of same age after all” I smiled at him, “How did you know- I blurted out

“We work in the same company” I looked at Minghao, feeling embarrassed, “right”

“So, do you want to join us?” I nodded smiling big, it felt nice. It felt like I found new friends to hang out who have same interests as mine.

We took a cab and went to a restaurant Mingyu choose. During the whole ride I didn’t feel alone or felt like I was with strangers, rather felt it was a dayout with my own friends. It felt like we were having just normal conversations with friends. We were talking about art, photography and hobbies, while talking about photography, Mingyu looked really interested, “Mingyu, I really wanted to tell you, I love your photography skills. And Minghao, I really wanted to tell you I love your sky pics, specially sunset ones” they looked surprised, “you check our posts?”

I almost forgot our group account follows them , and we don’t have personal Instagram account yet but I just check in twitter randomly when they appear on my timeline or check their accounts randomly, “Sometimes”

“That’s something I didn’t know” Mingyu laughed, “Well… our group account follows your group account and I sometimes happen to see your sunset pictures or sky pictures, they really heal me at times” thankfully my mask had me covered or else they could see my cheeks red because I’m embarrassed.

After telling them, how photography is precious to me, because I want to capture the beauties on lens, although they don’t do justice for what we see infront of us. I always wanted to capture the beauties which hold so many memories for me.

After having lunch and talking about random things, we were about to part ways, because of our schedules “so, Y/N let’s stay in contact and let’s have another day out like this, we really enjoyed your company. And do me know if you come across art exhibitions or something which you want to come, then I’ll give you company” I nodded and smiled at Mingyu; then he gave his phone to me, I looked at him, “number and kakaotalk id”

“Ah” I gave him my number and added both in my kakaotalk, “let’s stay in touch then!”

“You’re way too cute” I looked at Mingyu, taken aback. Minghao was looking at him, with a face I couldn’t understand, I was thinking how to respond, “everyone says that!” he looked so defensive, “thank you~”

“Well, we have practice in an hour and we don’t want to be late” I nodded, understanding our busy schedule  “Yes, I understand, I too have practice in few hours. Guess, that’s it then”

“See you around Y/N” I smiled at Minghao and he gave me a shoulder pat, he was really a warm person. “See you soon Y/N” Mingyu smiled at me, and my heart skipped a beat. I didn’t know why would that happen but maybe because he was standing really close to me. “Yes, see you guys soon” I gave him a full smile.

Their cab came, and they waved at me, before they could leave I heard Mingyu’s voice faintly, ‘Finally I’ve her number and we are not stranger anymore’ I saw Minghao smiling and nudging Mingyu’s shoulder which looked like he was teasing him, I turned around feeling my cheeks heated up.

“but I’m glad we are not strangers anymore” I said this to myself and saw my cab already came.  

love and warmth | kim mingyu

ミ★ synopsis: in which you blackmail your employee, mingyu, to marry you in order not to get deported back to canada due to your expired visa. [based on the proposal]

ミ★ genre: fake relationship!au, editor-in-chief!reader, assistant!mingyu, humor, fluff, some angst

ミ★ warnings: suggestive at times

ミ★ word count: 14,868

ミ★ pairings: mingyu x female reader

ミ★ notes: hi guys ! this is my longest oneshot to date oh god i wanna projectile vomit. it’s literally 4:44 am i’m gonna HURL this took me like a week to write i’m fucking crying it shouldn’t have ended up this long aaaAAAAA but i hope you guys still enjoy !! make sure to give mingyu lots of love !! and to remember that this is not realistically accurate, but i tried my best and did a lot of research on immigrant visas badabing badaboom. 

UPDATE: i just edited/deleted some parts of this oneshot because they were taken directly from the movie and i didn’t wanna make it seem like i was taking credit for them !

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mingyu would literally be the typical golden retriever boyfriend I swear😭

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he would try all possible ways to make you smile and laugh when you are having a bad day or any other days, just to see your smile. and one important thing, HE LOVES FEEDING YOU!

feeding you has become his major goal whenever you're alone or with friends and family. once the food arrives and before you could grab a spoon, mingyu would be quick to take a spoon of the dish and direct it towards your mouth. he starts whining with his lips pouted and looks at you with his puppy like eyes if you reject this action out of embarrassment and whatever mingyu wants mingyu gets so in the end you surrender and let him feed you throughout the meal, getting teasing looks from your family and friends.

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☆ my first time so please excuse if there are any mistakes here and there

☆please like, comment,and share......

Between The Lines

Pairing: Kim Mingyu x fem!reader

Genre: office au, office romance, angst, strangers(?) to lovers, Co-workers to Lovers, fluff towards the end

Summary: Y/n faces unexpected turmoil as she discovers that her new collaboration partner in the office is none other than Kim Mingyu, a figure from her college past associated with painful rumors. As they navigate their professional collaboration, Mingyu's persistent attempts to break through Y/n's guarded demeanor unravel a history of misunderstandings and hurtful rumors.

Warnings: slow burn-ish, reader is bullied in college, puckering of lips against each other, let me know if I missed anything

Word Count: ~3k

My main masterlist

A/N: Happy Carat's Day! This is my first ever fic and I am not sure how this will go. This story is just an idea that has been in my drafts for ages. I hope you like it! Cross-posting it here cause my other account is pretty new and this is not showing up in search results

The harsh hum of the photocopier and the distant murmur of office life formed the backdrop as I stared at my screen, which had just received a notification of an email. The subject line sent a ripple of anticipation through me: "Collaboration Partner Assignment."

Opening the email, my eyes quickly scanned the details. I braced myself for the revelation, but nothing could have prepared me for the name that leaped off the screen – Kim Mingyu. My stomach churned, though I couldn't pinpoint why. Maybe it was the mounting pressure of the project or the unfamiliarity of working with someone from another company. A wave of discomfort washed over me as memories of college days resurfaced, memories I had long buried because of the same name! But it couldn’t be him, right?

I had hoped to leave the shadows of the past behind, but fate had different plans. Mingyu, a name that had once been sY/nonymous with popularity and my own insecurities, was now set to become an integral part of my professional life.

Navigating the familiar hallways towards the designated meeting room, my steps carried the weight of unspoken history. The door creaked open, revealing Mingyu already seated, his eyes lifting from a set of project documents to meet mine. A knowing smile played on his lips, oblivious to the turmoil brewing within me. It was him, Kim Mingyu!

"Y/n, right?" he said, extending a hand in greeting. "I'm Mingyu. Looks like we're going to be partners on this project."

I hesitated for a moment before accepting the handshake. "Yes, Y/n. Nice to meet you."

The sterile hum of the office's fluorescent lights set the stage for a reunion neither of us had anticipated. Mingyu, a name echoing through the corridors of my past, now sat across from me in a conference room. His smile seemed to mock my silent discomfort, reminiscent of college days where he effortlessly commanded popularity, and I existed on the fringes.

"Ready to dive into this project together?" Mingyu's voice snapped me back to the present, his expression oblivious to the tumult of memories that threatened to overwhelm me.

"Sure," I replied, my voice masking the unease within. The corporate battleground was familiar, but the arrival of Mingyu resurrected a dormant storm.

As we settled into the collaborative routine, Mingyu's attempts to get to know me became increasingly apparent. In team meetings, he'd throw casual questions my way, trying to unearth the person behind the professional facade.

"So, Y/n, any exciting plans for the weekend?" he'd ask, a playful twinkle in his eye.

"Same as always," I'd reply, nonchalant. I wasn't one to divulge personal details easily.

But Mingyu was persistent, undeterred by my guarded responses. "Come on, Y/n, there must be something you enjoy doing outside of work. Hobbies? Interests?"

His inquiry probed deeper than the surface, seeking to unravel the layers I had meticulously wrapped around myself. "Not really," I'd brush off, maintaining a stoic demeanour.

In the break room, he'd invite me to join him for a coffee, hoping to chip away at the walls I'd built. "Coffee break, Y/n? It's on me," he'd offer, a friendly smile playing on his lips.

"Thanks, but I prefer working through breaks," I'd decline, my gaze fixed on the computer screen.

Mingyu, always the optimist, remained undeterred by my cool demeanour. "Alright, next time then," he'd say, masking any disappointment that might have lingered beneath the surface.

Our interactions, or lack thereof, became a dance of casual questions met with guarded replies. It wasn't that I didn't notice Mingyu's efforts – I did. The truth was, I had carefully crafted my isolation, and I wasn't eager to let anyone in.

One day, as we reviewed project details, Mingyu tried a different approach. "Y/n, we make a good team, you know? But it would be even better if we understood each other a bit more. What do you say?"

His words held a sincerity that caught me off guard. Maybe it was the vulnerability in his eyes or the genuine desire to bridge the gap. I sighed, relenting just a bit. "Look, Mingyu, it's nothing personal. I'm just here to get the job done."

He nodded, understanding but undeterred. "Fair enough, Y/n. I respect that. Just know, I'm here if you ever want to talk."

The unspoken hurt lingered beneath the surface, but Mingyu never let it show. His attempts to befriend me continued, even if they were met with my persistent nonchalance.

In another attempt to connect, he invited me to a team dinner. "Y/n, we've been working together for a while now. Let's celebrate our progress. What do you say?"

I hesitated, then finally relented, "Fine, but just for a little while."

As the evening unfolded, I found myself in an unexpected situation – Mingyu's infectious charm gradually wearing down my defences. We laughed, shared stories, and for a brief moment, the professional barriers faded.

In the midst of the camaraderie, Mingyu leaned in and said, "See, Y/n? We're not that different after all."

I couldn't help but smile, the walls I had so carefully constructed showing signs of cracking. Mingyu's efforts were slowly paying off, breaking through the layers that shielded me from the world.

As we left the restaurant that night, I couldn't deny the shift in dynamics. Mingyu, once an unwelcome intruder from the past, had become a persistent presence in my present – a presence I was starting to appreciate, even if I wasn't quite ready to admit it.

The echoes of our team dinner lingered in the air as Mingyu and I left the restaurant. Laughter and camaraderie had briefly bridged the gap, but as we stepped back into the office building, I retreated into my familiar shell. The nonchalant exterior was my armour, and I wore it with practised ease.

Days passed, and Mingyu's efforts to break through my walls persisted, but my responses remained unchanged – short, guarded, and distant. The unspoken hurt beneath his eyes grew more evident with each interaction, until one day, frustration etched across his face.

As I sat at my desk, engrossed in my work, Mingyu approached, a determined expression on his face. "Y/n, we need to talk. Meet me in the meeting room in fifteen minutes," he said, his voice carrying a firmness I hadn't heard before.

I raised an eyebrow, caught off guard by the sudden shift in his demeanour. "Sure, whatever," I replied, my tone as indifferent as ever.

The meeting room, a neutral ground for professional discussions, now became the stage for an unexpected confrontation. As I entered, Mingyu was already there, his arms crossed, and a look of frustration etched across his features.

"What's your deal, Y/n?" he began, his voice tinged with a mix of anger and hurt. "I've been trying to get to know you, to be a good teammate, but every attempt is met with this... this wall you've built. What are you so afraid of?"

I sighed, my nonchalant facade momentarily faltering. "Mingyu, I'm not afraid of anything. I'm just here to work, not make friends."

His frustration bubbled to the surface. "You don't have to make it so difficult, Y/n. We're part of the same team, working towards the same goal. Why can't we at least get along?"

I leaned back in my chair, the familiar defences back in place. "Getting along is not a requirement for getting the job done."

Mingyu's eyes flashed with a mix of anger and disappointment. "It's not just about the job, Y/n. We spend a significant portion of our lives working together. Why make it miserable for both of us?"

His words struck a chord, a brief pang of guilt flickering within me. But I couldn't let him see it. "Mingyu, I have my reasons for keeping things professional. Let's just focus on the project and leave it at that."

He leaned in, his frustration giving way to a determination that mirrored the spark in his eyes. "Fine, Y/n. If that's how you want it, we'll keep it strictly professional. But know that it doesn't have to be this way."

Mingyu's proposal hung in the air, and for a moment, I considered the possibility of a truce – a ceasefire in the silent war that had defined our collaboration. The weight of his words pressed upon me, and I decided to break the stoic facade, if only for a moment.

"Fine," I responded, my tone betraying a hint of resignation. "Let's keep it professional."

As the days passed, our interactions adhered to the newfound agreement. Work discussions unfolded without the previous tension, and the strained atmosphere began to ease. However, beneath the surface, the unspoken distance lingered, a reminder of the unresolved history that bound us.

Late one evening, as the office lights flickered in the waning hours, Mingyu and I found ourselves alone in the workspace. The hum of computers and distant traffic outside seemed to amplify the silence between us. Mingyu broke the quiet, his voice softer than before.

"Y/n, there's something I need to know. The tension between us... is it just about work, or is there something more?" His gaze bore into mine, a silent plea for honesty.

I hesitated, contemplating whether to unravel the layers that guarded my past. In that moment, I decided to breach the unspoken barrier. "It's not just about work, Mingyu. There's history – a rumour that tainted my college years, and I believed you were behind it."

His eyes widened, a mix of surprise and realisation flickering across his features. "Rumour? What rumour are you talking about?"

College, a realm of possibilities, unfolded before me. Amid vibrant campus life, I preferred solitude, finding solace in the quiet corners of the library. My routine, a sanctuary, was disrupted when a rumor about me and Mingyu, the campus heartthrob, began to circulate.

Whispers painted a false picture – a rejected proposal, a scornful comment. The rumor, like wildfire, labeled me as the girl who dared to confess, only to face ridicule. My once-unnoticed existence transformed into isolation as judgmental gazes and hurtful labels became my companions.

The most painful aspect was the misunderstanding – the lie that branded me a loner, rejected and ridiculed. The library, my refuge, now felt like a glass house, the rumor exposing me to the harsh scrutiny of others.

Mingyu, oblivious to the storm, continued his life, while I bore the weight of fabricated rejection. The rumor, a dark shadow, cast a long-lasting mark on my college experience. The isolation, self-imposed or not, became my reality.

"The one where it was said I proposed to you in college, and you rejected me, saying you'd never date a loner like me," I confessed, my voice holding the weight of years of perceived betrayal.

Mingyu's expression shifted from surprise to understanding, a furrow forming on his brow. "Y/n, I never spread that rumor. In fact, I had no idea it existed until now. In fact, I wanted to be friends with you back then and expressed it to some of my friends!"

My defenses faltered as the revelation sank in. The narrative I had carried for years, the resentment that fueled our strained collaboration, crumbled like a fragile facade. "But... why would someone spread such a thing?"

Mingyu's eyes softened with sincerity. "I don't know, Y/n. But I promise you, it wasn't me. I regret that you went through that, and I wish I could've been there to clarify things."

The weight of the misunderstanding hung heavy in the room. Mingyu's admission brought forth a vulnerability I hadn't expected, and the unspoken tension that defined our collaboration began to unravel. As we navigate the murky waters of our shared history, the silence transformed into a hesitant dialogue.

"Maybe," he began, choosing his words carefully, "we can move past this together. Start anew, without the burden of misunderstandings."

In the quiet office, Mingyu and I shared a moment where words seemed unnecessary. His hand found mine, a gentle intertwining of fingers that spoke volumes. Leaning in, he kissed me with a tenderness that felt like an unspoken apology.

The kiss was slow, each movement deliberate, as if time itself had slowed down. Mingyu's lips met mine in a dance of connection, a soft exploration that conveyed a shared understanding. It wasn't just a kiss; it was a promise – a promise to let go of the past and embrace the possibility of something new.

As our lips lingered in the gentle exchange, the weight of misunderstandings lifted. Mingyu's touch, comforting and sincere, became a bridge that spanned the distance between us.

The air shifted after the shared kiss, the unspoken tension replaced by a newfound understanding. Mingyu, eyes reflecting a mixture of vulnerability and sincerity, gently pulled away, creating a space for words to bridge the lingering gap.

"Y/n," he began, his voice carrying the weight of unspoken sentiments, "there's something I'd like to propose."

I met his gaze, a silent invitation to continue.

"How about we take a step into the present? Leave the office behind for a while, just you and me. What do you say to a dinner? A date, maybe?" Mingyu's words hung in the air, a simple yet profound invitation.

The corners of my lips twitched into a hesitant smile, the remnants of the emotional whirlwind we had just weathered. "A date?" I echoed, the word carrying a hint of both surprise and curiosity.

Mingyu nodded, his eyes holding a hopeful gleam. "Yes, a date. No work, no misunderstandings – just two people sharing a meal and getting to know each other beyond the confines of the office."

The idea, once foreign, now seemed like a welcome proposition. A chance to rewrite the script, explore the uncharted territories of this evolving connection. "I suppose a dinner sounds nice," I conceded, the tension replaced by a sense of openness.

His face broke into a radiant smile, the lines of relief and excitement mingling. "Great! How about tomorrow night? I know a place not far from here. Casual, nothing too fancy. What do you think?"

Tomorrow night – a prospect that carried the promise of a fresh beginning. I found myself nodding, the corners of my own lips forming a genuine smile. "Tomorrow night sounds good."

Mingyu's joy was palpable, and as he pulled out his phone to exchange details, the office surroundings seemed to fade into the background. In the quiet aftermath of a shared kiss, the invitation extended marked a turning point – a step away from the weight of the past and into the possibilities of the present.

As we finalised the plans, Mingyu's gaze held a promise – a promise of a date that transcended the ordinary, a date that hinted at the potential for something more. The unspoken tension that had defined our collaboration was replaced by the anticipation of a shared meal, laughter, and the uncharted journey that lay ahead.

the other woman; wonwoo x fem!reader // mingyu x fem!reader

request: Hey do you write seventeen angst? Idk if you are still doing requests but I was hoping you can write a dramatic angst using either Joshua, Hoshi, Wonwoo, Mingyu, or Minghao, Vernon but two of them as leads. Idk why I’m a sucker for cliche stuff like cheating or betraying kind of stuff and a touch of sadness.

synopsis: you're married to wonwoo, but his parents desperately wants him to have a child - which you cannot have. he gives into his parents wishes and meets the other woman, whom he eventually agrees to marry as well. you're left heartbroken for a few years, seeing the man you love build a family that you had always wanted, but happiness is on the horizon as you meet someone new.

a/n: obviously, this is fictional - but i just want to make it clear that i don't think that his dad is an asshole.. and please do tell me if you want a part two!!

cw: swearing, implied smut (no smut actually written)

genre: angst, fluff, found family

word count: 9.5k

the characters are aged up for plot reasons :)

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the blinds were closed, but morning light still found it's way to peek through. the sun rays managed to hit your face, peeling your eyes open. as your eyelids fluttered open, you found yourself looking at your gorgeous husband laying in front of you. the covers were secured under his arms, but his bare skin still showed. you reached your hands out to him, wanting to get as close as possible. after a quick peck to his forehead, you looked at him again. his hair wasn't as messy as it used to be when he woke up. you assumed it was because he had time to let his hair dry after his shower before getting into bed last night. there were deep circles under his eyes. he had been working late frequently this past week, but today you had him all to yourself. "good morning, love.", he muttered and pulled you closer to his chest. you said it back with a content smile. he smelled of laundry detergent, and the body wash you told him you liked once - ever since then he's been using it religiously. wonwoo kissed the top of your head and gently squeezed your body with his arms. "would you mind getting me my glasses?", he asked kindly. wonwoo let go of you, letting you reach for the bedside table and getting the round frames for him. he put them on as soon as you gave them to him, and looked at you. "now i can properly see you...", he chuckled, "thank you, beautiful." you leaned down and gave him a kiss before getting out of bed. he had gotten home late last night, as usual, and hadn't seen the night gown you had put on. it was the short silk slip he had bought you a few weeks ago. you could feel his eyes on you. "wait no, come back!", he laughed and grabbed your arm. he pulled you back into bed, his arms embracing your torso from behind. his strong arms had yours locked in place, and he took the chance to plant as many tickling kisses along your neck as he could. "you didn't tell me you were wearing this...", he smiled against your skin. "i never got the chance.", you answered with a grin, "do you like it?" "of course i do...", he kissed your cheek again before letting you go. you sat down beside him, looking at him lovingly. he stole another kiss from you before getting up. "do you want coffee?", he asked. "always.", you nodded and followed him out to the kitchen.

you sat on the kitchen island, watching your husband work on making you the perfect cup of coffee. he was wearing the pajama pants that you loved so much, and a shirt you had gotten him for his birthday a few years ago. "you don't have to go to work today either, right?", he asked. "i called them last night to tell them i wouldn't be.", you nodded. "i bet the kids will be disappointed.", he looked over at you with a small smile. you were a kindergarten teacher, and happened to be many kids' favorite teacher. there was no need for you to work if you so wished, as wonwoo made enough for the both of you. however, you had been working there since before you met him and quite enjoyed it. maybe one day you would quit, but not any time soon. "i'm sure they can go one day without seeing me.", you said. wonwoo walked up to you and gave you a cup of coffee, just how you liked it. you took a sip and instant relief flooded your body. "is it any good?", he asked. "it's perfect.. thank you, baby.", you muttered and gave him a quick kiss. he smiled against your lips, and went back to make himself a cup.

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the day went on quicker than it should have. when you were preparing to go to dinner with wonwoo's father, you found yourself trying to find every excuse to make it take a bit longer to get ready. just as wonwoo was doing the same. "we don't have to have dinner with him, you know?", he said as he buttoned up his white shirt. "but we should.", you said and brought him his tie, "you don't meet your parents very often." "you don't think there's a reason for that?", he chuckled. you shook your head at his comment and helped him tie his tie. you hadn't even gotten in your dress yet, you were still in one of wonwoo's t-shirts. wonwoo grabbed your wrists and got you to stop helping him tie it. "thank you, sweetheart, but i think you should get going with putting your dress on.", he said with a knowing smile. you nodded, pressing a kiss to his cheek before moving on. wonwoo looked himself in the mirror, realizing that you had left a red lipstick mark on his cheek. you giggled as you ran over the the closet. "... where do you keep your make up wipes?", he sighed. "bathroom.", you said as you reached for your dress.

after he came back from the bathroom, you had finished putting your grey dress on. it wasn't what you were used to. "could you help me zip it up?", you sighed and turned your back to wonwoo. he gently helped you with the zipper in the back of the dress, trapping you in the uncomfortable piece of clothing. your slight frown didn't go unnoticed by your husband. "i know you don't like it.", he said calmly, "but it's just for a night." his dad wasn't very fond of you, and so you resorted to dressing as he would want you to dress whenever you saw him. your usual colorful closet turned into monotone fabrics. "it's fine.", you lied, "at least he won't comment on my clothes tonight... thanks for helping me find this." "anything for you.", he smiled at you in the mirror, "although i do like your colorful dresses more." you turned around to face him with a mischievous grin. "i'm wearing the light blue lingerie set.", you said with a giggle. "you're telling me that before we even go out?", he groaned, "you'll be the death of me, y/n."

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"i'm just suggesting an alternative.", wonwoo's dad said calmly. you had been zoning out ever since he decided to talk about you with wonwoo right in front of your face. sadly, his mom couldn't make it to the dinner - she was a nice woman, who most of the time took your side. however, she was a busy woman, so she couldn't attend and help you tonight. it was no secret to the jeon family that you couldn't have children. many attempts had been made, and you had gone to an immense amount of doctor's appointments. in the end, it led to nothing. that is the reason why wonwoo's dad disliked you. it wasn't because of your colorful wardrobe, he didn't mind that before knowing that you couldn't make them an heir. the jeon family's business had been passed down through generations. if wonwoo didn't get an heir, the family company stops at him. "an alternative? like adoption?", wonwoo asked. "no, not adoption - then it's not our genes.", his father said. usually you would interject at these sort of statements. working at the day care had made you witness many different family situations, including ones were the child was adopted. therefore, you couldn't stand it when people spoke in that manner. however, this was different - because he would certainly not listen to you. "i mean... you get a mistress who can birth the child for you.", the dad shrugged as he continued eating. your heart sank. "a surrogate, right?", wonwoo asked and took your hand under the table. "well...", his dad started, "... i was thinking thinking... maybe this relationship wasn't meant to be if y/n-" you stood up, the chair falling down behind you. this was enough. "i'm sorry mr. jeon, but if you are going to speak of me, could you at least acknowledge my presence in the room?", you spoke with a cold tone. "oh, i didn't mean to offend-" "but you did. i'll take my leave.", you said, "i hope you have a great rest of your evening." there was nothing more you could say, especially not when you felt tears welling up in your eyes. you grabbed your bag and stormed out of the restaurant.

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"y/n, please could we just talk about what happened.", wonwoo tried to reason with you as you went into the apartment. "he wants you to officially cheat on me, wonwoo.", you sighed as you took off your heels, "and then had the guts to say that to my fucking face! there's nothing more to say!" "my father just wants me to have a child-" "oh my god, are you siding with him right now!?", you stopped dead in your tracks and stared at him, "i'm so fucking sorry that my body can't produce a fucking son for you." "that's not what i'm saying, y/n...", he sighed and pinched his nose, "maybe we should talk this over later." "wonwoo.", you were almost crying out of frustration, "i have been trying to get pregnant for almost two years now. it is hard for me, and him saying that hurts. i want to make a family with you, more than anything - but i can't, okay? his 'suggestion' is not on the table if you're going to stay married to me. we've tried to convince him that we could get a surrogate, but he didn't want that. it is so fucking obvious that he just wants me to leave you, so if you even try to reason with him... i don't know you anymore." you started walking to the bedroom and gathered a few of your things. "where are you going?" "i'm staying at my mom's place for a few days. i need to be alone.", you sniffled. "but we should talk this out-", he tried to reach for you. "don't touch me!", you shrieked, "... i don't want you to touch me right now... i just have to be alone."

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you were lucky enough that your mom lived within a train ride from your apartment. after texting her on the way there, she welcomed you in with open arms. she made you a cup of tea and asked you to sit down on the couch and tell her everything. once you did, she was practically fuming. "that is the most heartless thing i have ever heard!", she exclaimed. "it's alright mom...", you said, "i'm going to talk it through with wonwoo later, and then we could speak to his father about it." "he's being a jerk too, you know.", your mom sighed. "wonwoo?", you scoffed, "what? no... he hasn't done anything." "that's the problem, honey.", your mom said, "he should've stood up for you when his dad said those things." "... i'm sorry, i kind of just want to go to bed now.", you excused yourself from the situation and went to sleep.

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after a few days of being at your mom's place, still going to work and acting as if everything was fine, you decided to go back home. you called wonwoo before leaving. "y/n?", he spoke quietly. "i'll be home when you get off work.", you answered coldly, "we should talk." "yes, of course... we should.", he sighed, "i'll see you at home." "bye, hon-" he hung up before you could say another word. there was no doting, no nicknames, no sweet talk. you felt a dark pit grow in your stomach... this couldn't be good.

it wasn't good. when you met wonwoo again he spoke to you in his professional voice, the one that was only used for clients and his employees. he put out his suggestions of what to do next: take a break, hear his father out, and maybe even get a divorce. when you started crying his character begun to break. "i'm really sorry y/n.", he said sadly, "... this isn't what i want either." "then why are you doing this?", you sobbed. "i'm doing it for my mother.", he admitted, "my acting out will only affect her image, considering she's seen as the one who raised me." "what about us?", you asked, "was this all for nothing?" "no, y/n.", he put his hands on top of yours, "i'll get an heir - a legitimate heir - and then i'll divorce their mom... so that i can come back to you." you took your hands away from him and rested your head in your palms. "you're absolutely insane if you think that'll work.", you sniffled. "i'm only insane about you.", he said and took away your hands from your face.

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the plan started out smoothly. you signed divorce papers and got the whole ordeal settled. wonwoo let you keep the apartment, promising to come back there as soon as it was possible. was this plan morally correct? hell no, but it was the only option you seemed to have.

wonwoo met up with the woman that his father had arranged for him. her name was gyeong-hui, she was a nice woman at the age of twenty-seven and looked great. you obviously got nervous at these details, but wonwoo tried to assure you that it wouldn't change a thing. but of course it did. your hour long phone calls every night got shorter and less frequent. after their wedding, a few months after your divorce, they almost never happened at all... and when they announced her pregnancy, another few months after the wedding, you got your last call. "i'm sorry, but i think it's for the best... i wouldn't want the baby to grow up in such a complicated situation and... and i don't want to hurt gyeong-hui.", wonwoo had told you. he let you keep the apartment, as they moved into a house in the suburbs. wonwoo had always told you how he hated the suburbs, and how he'd much rather live with you in a city apartment than have to raise a big family in a big house in a boring neighborhood. was all of it lies? was all of it just a circumstance? you would never know, he stopped calling.

you wanted to be happy for him. he had always wanted to have a child... a small, but happy, family. although you thought that dream was only possible with you. maybe this was your fault, that you let him go. you couldn't get over it, your heart couldn't take it. you were taking more sick leaves, spending more time at your mother's house. eventually you sold the apartment. you couldn't stand to look at it anymore. as wonwoo had given it to you, you got all of the money for yourself - and it was a lot, since it was an expensive building. it didn't matter in the end, since you never got around to spending it. after that you quit your job, and moved back in with your mom. you never thought that would ever happen again.

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"here.", your mom handed you her phone. you were at the kitchen table, eating breakfast in the form of cereal. after a quick glance at her phone you looked back at her. "a cottage?", you asked with a slight chuckle. "it's your aunt's cottage.", she sat down in front of you, "it's in a beautiful forest, with a running, clear, lake... i think you should go there." "you're kicking me out to go see nature?", you kept digging in your bowl of cereal. "... y/n, you know i love to have you home - but not under these conditions.", she sighed, "you're falling apart, i want you to try to enjoy yourself." "and a cabin in the woods will help me do that?" "it's not the only cottage there, you'll definitely meet other people.", your mom explained, "and if you don't want to see anyone, you have the cottage to yourself - your aunt isn't using it at the moment." "i don't know.", you walked over to the sink to do the dishes. "think about it, honey?", she asked. "i will, mom."

that's how you ended up in the middle of a forest. you thought you were done with sulking, and that nature would bring you peace. you thought wrong. nature only brings you bugs. however, you didn't want to go home because you sensed that the reason your mom sent you here is partially because she needed to be alone. so you had to live here for two weeks. at least the cottage looked nice. it was made with yellow brick and had a dark roof. you assumed the roof was originally black, but time had taken it's toll. ivy had made it's way up the yellow walls, and it fit in nicely with the well-grown garden. the windows were big, and some of them were with painted glass. you would definitely get use of your dreamy fairytale-dresses by simply walking around the premise of the home. the lake your mom spoke of also seemed amazing. the water was clear as day, and you could even see the bottom. the two-story cottage would maybe suffice for two weeks.

your presence in the cottage didn't go unnoticed by your neighbors. the forest apparently had a large population of old people, who lived out their retired dreams here. the first day, while you made yourself at home, three elderly people came knocking at your door. you greeted them nicely and promised you wouldn't disturb, as well as telling them that you would only be staying for around two weeks. the next day you got two new visitors - and you started growing tired of the chit-chat. so when a third person came to your door on the second day, you opened it with a tired expression. "hi, i'm mingyu.", it was the most gorgeous man you had ever seen. he was tall, golden-tan skin, black, thick, hair, and he had the sweetest smile. "y/n.", you shook his hand with a smile, "you... uh... you live here?" "oh, no- i'm helping my parents fix up their cottage." he explained, "i didn't recognize the car, so i thought i would stop by." "right, right... you probably know my aunt, this is her place, and i'm just staying here for two weeks.", you explained, "i guess you could call it vacation." "you guess?", he questioned with a confused smile. "well... i don't feel like getting into it, i'll probably bore you to death.", you chuckled, "just know i won't bother you, i'll probably just stay in here for the two weeks. "oh, i don't think you could bother me.", he said with his charming smile, "actually... if you're feeling a bit claustrophobic in here later, my next-door neighbor is holding a small barbecue." "they don't know me, so maybe not... i would feel like i was intruding.", you tried to get out of going to this dinner, even though he was very handsome you still didn't want to mingle. "not at all! you know what? come with me, and then i'll just say that you're my plus one.", mingyu seemed to insist on you going. damn you for being so handsome... "... alright.", you nodded, "when is it?"

so there you were, getting ready in the mirror. you hadn't made yourself feel pretty in a while. whenever you used to dress up it would be for an event with wonwoo... now it didn't feel the same. however, you didn't want to give your aunt a bad rep for having a lazy niece, so you decided to put in a little effort. you wore a long, light blue, linen dress with small flowers on it. it was simple, but it was all you could muster.

when mingyu knocked at your door you were quick to open it. he was wearing a light blue linen button-up and light-brown pants. "... we match.", he commented. "we do.", you agreed with a chuckle, "you look great." "so do you.", he smiled, "shall we?" "yeah, let me just grab something...", you walked into the kitchen and grabbed a bottle of rosé that you had been planning on giving the neighbors, "do people still give gifts to the host?" "i think it's sweet.", mingyu looked closer at the bottle, "and this isn't bad stuff either." "well, you can thank...", you started, but stopped when you realized that it was wonwoo that gave you your current taste in wine. "who do i thank?", mingyu gave you a curious look. "... the girl in the store.", you said, "sorry, i zoned out. let's go!"

you and mingyu approached a red brick house, with a neatly taken care of garden. there was a wonderful smell of somebody making something on a grill, that you hadn't smelled in forever. you wondered if wonwoo's new family held barbecues like these... "you okay?", mingyu asked. "oh... yeah.", you nodded. mingyu opened the white gate for you, and you stepped inside. in the garden sat a few elderly couples, as well as some younger along with their small children. you felt like you were about to puke... this was a bad idea. "you know what? maybe i should go.", you told mingyu, who was still holding the gate open. "but you've only just gotten here.", he raised his eyebrows. "i'm so sorry... i think i ate something bad earlier, please give them this bottle for me.", you gave him a painful smile and hurried back to your cottage.

in the tiny cottage, you made some instant noodles and sat down in front of your computer to watch a movie. the dress was laying on your, awkwardly big, bed and you had instead changed into pajamas. the room was a weird green color, and the wooden floor creaked as you walked across it. you were uncomfortable, and this was a horrible idea. it didn't matter that your neighbor was the hottest guy you had ever seen, you wanted to go home... which is why you decided to pack after you finished your mediocre dinner.

your car's trunk stood open as you put in your baggage into it. it was early morning, that was when you thought nobody could watch you leave... you were, of course, wrong. "hey there, neighbor.", mingyu jogged by. "you jog?", you asked in disbelief. "i try to do it every morning here, it's really beautiful this early in the day.", he flashed you a smile, "are you leaving already?" "i am.", you sighed. "you didn't even get to take a dip in the lake. is it something urgent?", he asked. "you ask a lot of questions." "you make me want to ask more.", he said flirtatiously, "why are you leaving?" "because i can't stand to see happy people.", you said as you put in another bag into your car. mingyu raised a quizzical brow, and an amused smile played on his lips. you gave up on trying to be mysterious and keep quiet about your life. he looked more than happy to hear you out, so why not? "... you know what, i haven't gotten to talk about this with anyone but my mom...", you turned to him with a sudden confidence, "if you want to keep asking questions you could come have some tea, i'll tell you whatever you want." "sure."

you spilled your guts to a stranger. you told him of your relationship, wonwoo's dad, the plan, the divorce, and the fact that his new wife was so nice that you couldn't even hate her. "that's a lot.", his eyebrows were furrowed. "and when i saw those happy couples i guess i couldn't take it.", you said and finished your tea, "so that's all you need to know." "i see.", mingyu nodded, "and now you're leaving?" "yup.", you took your mug and put it beside the sink, "my mom thought this would be therapeutic, it was just a nuisance." "... but therapy is a bit uncomfortable in the beginning, isn't it?", mingyu said, "and therapy doesn't help unless you actually want to try it." he was right, and you hated it. "well, i don't want to be uncomfortable.", you sighed. "but you want to get better." "of course." "let me help.", he offered, "you're supposed to be here for two weeks, right?" "how would you help me?" "i guess... just make sure you have a nice time.", he gave you an innocent smile. "... fine.", you nodded, "... would you mind helping me bring my bags back inside?"

that day, mingyu offered to take you swimming in the lake. he said it was the most therapeutic thing he had ever done. you questioned if he really knew how therapy worked, but didn't say anything to him. you met with him by the beautiful lake later in the day. it was a bit further away from all the houses, and shielded by many big trees. you wore a swimsuit you hadn't gotten the chance to wear in a while, but you felt a bit exposed and opted to put a t-shirt over it. "you swim in clothes?", mingyu asked as he walked up next to you. of course he's ripped... he was only wearing swimming trunks, showing off his very muscular torso - that was just as golden brown as his face was the first time you had seen him. there was no way you could keep your eyes off him. "eyes up here, lady.", he chuckled. he definitely knows what he's doing. "i just didn't walk over here half naked.", you explain yourself and look away from him, with much effort. without another word, mingyu started walking into the lake and looked back at you expectantly. with a sigh you took off the shirt and got in yourself. the water was cool, but not freezing. you took a deep breath and felt every muscle in your body relax. "it's nice, right?", he asked with a grin. "so nice.", you kept your eyes closed, "i feel like i'm breathing for the first time in a while." it was quiet for a while. you heard bird song, the wind rustling the leaves, the low noice of some people talking far away, and the water ripple. like the softest silk, the lake gently caressed your bare legs. you took another deep breath. "i'll show you a nice spot, c'mon.", mingyu broke you out of your thoughts.

the two of you swam towards some rocks, where a waterfall had formed. hanging in a tree, was a wooden swing, right above the waterfall. "i made that when i was a teenager.", he pointed at it, "if we're lucky, it's not completely ruined with age." "wait, how old are you?", you asked. "i'm twenty-eight.", he said. "really? you look much younger.", you said, "i'm twenty-eight, too." "we already have so much in common, y/n.", he joked.

mingyu helped you up on the rocks, and you dipped your toes in the small waterfall and watched the water curve around your foot. "do you want to try the swing?", he asked. "only if you try it first.", you chuckled. you watched as mingyu carefully got on the swing, tensing up your muscles for the anticipation that he'd fall off. he didn't. "it's fine!", he looked back on you. his toned back moved entrancingly as he jumped off the swing, into the deep water of the lake below. you gasped, terrified that he had accidentally hit the rocks on the way down. when his head appeared on the surface again, he slicked back his hair and gave you a bright smile. "are you okay?", you asked. "i'm great!", he replied with a goofy grin as he started to climb back up to you, "your turn." "oh no, i'm not doing that.", you chuckled. "but you have to, it's a part of my therapy for you.", he said in a matter-of-fact manner. "how is jumping to my death therapy?", you asked. "well, it's either that or i surprise you by randomly throwing you in the lake at some point during the day.", he shrugged, "the fun part is that you won't know that it's happening." "you're ruthless.", you groaned, "i'll get on the fucking swing."

mingyu helped you onto the swing, carefully holding you by your waist. it felt nice, especially after a little more than a year of no intimacy. "alright, you have to get out a bit before you jump.", he said. you hummed in response. mingyu gently pushed on your lower back, setting the swing in motion. you looked down and found a place where you could jump. after a bit of swinging, feeling the wind in your hair, you jumped - aiming for the safe spot. lucky for you, you managed to hit the water and not a rock. "i did it!", you shouted as you came up to the surface again. "you did it!", mingyu happily shouted back.

after a long day of swimming you sat down by the shore where you had gotten in. you had found your shirt hanging on the branch you left it on, and you quickly put it on as soon as it got a bit cold. the two of you watched the lake go from blue to pink to deep purple. "i had a nice time.", you admitted. "you don't regret not going home?", he asked. "definitely not.", you chuckled, "i think i would just make my mom more disappointed... i'm twenty-eight, living at home." a groan escaped your lips and you laid down in the fluffy grass. mingyu looked over at you with a sad smile. "well, i think your situation is a bit special.", he said. "'a bit special' is code for fucking weird.", you responded. "well, yeah. it is fucking weird.", he nodded, "but so are most things." you looked at him, and he gave you a quick wink before standing up. "i'm going back home, i have some work to get done on the house.", he stretched up his arms, "i'm thinking about having a barbecue in a few days, you should come give it another shot." "i'll think about it.", you said, "thanks for today."

the next day it rained. it was unexpected, but not unappreciated. mingyu was apparently a very hardworking person, who didn't waver when facing rain during a run. you watched him run past while looking through one of the big windows on the cottage, standing in just a night slip. he looked over at you, his eyebrows slightly raised, and waved at you. you waved back, and walked over to the kitchen. maybe you had a bit of a crush on your temporary neighbor.

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a week passed, and there was another week left of your stay. you kept bumping into mingyu no matter what you ended up doing. for that first week he had shown you the lake, taken you on a forest hike, introduced you to all of your other neighbors, and come over to your place to make you dinner. that's where you were at the moment. you were sitting on one of the bar stools in the kitchen, watching mingyu make you dinner. "you're good at everything, aren't you?", you sighed as you watched him perfectly cut up vegetables. L'appuntamento by Ornella Vanoni was playing in the background, and you found yourself wishing that this could happen more often. "well, i can cook", he nodded, "but i wouldn't say i know how to do everything." "what can't you do, then?", you asked. "i can't paint.", he answered, "which is an issue... i need to paint the walls in the house tomorrow, and i think i might just fuck it up." "it's just the walls, i'm sure it'll be fine.", you leaned your elbows against the counter. "i don't think so.", he shook his head with a smile. "let me help you then", you said, "as thanks for this dinner." "go ahead, i won't complain.", mingyu said.

after dinner and a movie, you found yourself in the kitchen again - this time doing the dishes. mingyu was standing right beside you, helping you out. "i hate that this place doesn't have a dishwasher.", you groaned. "doing the dishes can be nice.", mingyu shrugged. his arm was touching yours, but you didn't move. you liked standing so close to him, and you were currently fighting the urge to lean your head against his shoulder. "i think it's tiring.", you said. "not in good company.", he retorted, "like this, this is nice." "i'm glad that i can be good company.", you found yourself smiling at his comment. "you've been good company all week. even if you've distracted me from the thing i was actually supposed to be doing.", he chuckled. "i think it's only fair that i take up a bit of your time", you said, "since your the one who asked me to stay here." you were teasing him, but mingyu didn't react to it like you thought he would. "i guess you're right.", he said, "i'm glad i did." you looked over at him, he was looking at you. there was something in his eyes that seemed different. you put away the last of the dirty dishes and leaned against the counter. it was so quiet, you could hear the owls deep in the forest. mingyu's eyes darted to your lips, and then back to your eyes. you were still so very close, but he leaned in closer. you put your hand on his shoulder to keep yourself stable. one of mingyu's hands was gently placed on your waist, as the other one cupped your face. his eyes kept looking deep into yours as your forehead leaned against his. your noses softly bumped together, before mingyu tilted his head and kissed you. he brought you in closer to him by your waist, and you let out a delighted hum and smiled against his lips. your hands moved from his shoulders to the nape of his neck as the kiss deepened... but just as it got good he pulled away with a big grin on his face. "what was that for?", you muttered as you tried to catch your breath. "i just had to see your face.", he said smoothly and gently caressed his thumb over your cheek. you pushed away a few hairs that were hanging over his forehead, and your hands went back to his shoulders. before he could say another word, you had leaned in and kissed him again. in the middle of your kiss, he brought his hands down to the back of your thighs and lifted you up on the counter. your hands cradled his face as he stood between your legs, with his hands gently placed on your thighs - stroking his palms up and down in slow motions. you pulled away, letting your lips stay a few inches from his face. "i'm not dreaming, am i?", you asked. "i hope not.", he answered, and went back to kissing you. his lips moved against yours slowly, taking his time. you hadn't felt this in so long, and it felt so nice to be intimate with someone again... but in the back of your mind you couldn't help but to think about wonwoo. you pulled away again and looked at mingyu. "i'm sorry...", you whispered. "are you okay? do you want me to stop?", he asked with a worried tone. "no... well, maybe for now...", you put your hands back on his shoulders, "it's just been a while since i did this, i'm sorry." "you have nothing to apologies for, y/n.", he said, "i don't mind, we can stop." "are you sure?" "i don't want to kiss someone who's not up for it.", he chuckled, "we can get back to this another time, hm?" "yeah... yeah.", you nodded.

mingyu helped you off the counter and gave you yet another reassuring smile. as the two of you walked to the front door, you started feeling worse about stopping him. maybe this was all you needed to feel better and you just ruined it for yourself? "oh, and don't feel bad about this.", mingyu said as he was putting on his shoes, "i really liked it while it lasted... and this just means that i have a reason to do it again." you let out a small laugh at his comment, but you weren't even able to look him in the eye. this was embarrassing. "are you still up for helping me paint tomorrow?" "oh, right.", you nodded, "uh... yeah, i'll come by your place some time after lunch." as soon as he closed the door behind him, you crumbled to the floor. there was a part of you that really believed that you had ruined this now. a black hole was growing in your chest. you really liked him, but you still couldn't get the image of wonwoo out of your brain. maybe this was your life now, finding new people but being cock-blocked by someone who wasn't even in the room... someone who didn't care about you anymore. if he had been able to move on, why couldn't you? it had been a year since you took off your wedding ring and signed the divorce papers. it had been half a year since wonwoo last called. you had deleted his contact from your phone, afraid that you would give in and call him on a whim. you couldn't sink so low. there was nothing more to do than accept that you had been the other woman. if alternate dimensions existed, you wished that at least one of them let you stay with wonwoo - or that the plan could've gone through. you wished that you never got to know that gyeong-hui was a kind and gentle woman. you wished that she would've been a bitch... but she wasn't, you had no reason to hate her - she didn't drag your husband away from you, she was just a pawn in a game. you got up from the floor and made your way to your bedroom.

the next day you dressed up in clothes that you didn't mind if they got paint splatters on them. you had decided to just forget about the night before and get this paint job over with. when you got to mingyu's cottage he had already started painting, which was evident by the white paint all over him. "you know you're supposed to paint the wall and not yourself, right?", you laughed as you walked inside. "very funny...", he sighed and closed the door behind you, "i got paint on my face when opening the can, the rest is just brush accidents." "give me a paint roller, picasso.", you chuckled.

together, you got the job done quicker than expected. it was hard work, and in the small and warm room you were sweating buckets. if you could jump into an ice bath right now, you would. "do you think we're done?", you asked. you looked over at mingyu, who was also sweating profusely. he was lifting up his paint roller for one last missed spot on the wall. you watched as his toned arms flexed. the tank top that he was wearing didn't help your thoughts from going absolutely wild. "i think so.", he nodded, "... now we just have to clean up." he was looking at the many newspapers on the floor, protecting it from white paint, but you were still only staring at him. any sentimental thought you had the day before had flown through the window. you were too hot, too tired, and too turned on to think about anything else other than mingyu. "y/n, are you okay?", he dragged you out of your daydreams of him taking you on the couch in the corner of the room. "i'm just tired.", you stuttered out. "do you want some water or something? you look flushed.", he approached you, and you did your best to not back up against the wet wall. mingyu held the back of his hand against your forehead. it was much colder than your skin, and you felt like you could melt against it. you closed your eyes, and a pleased sigh escaped your lips. "are you sure you're okay there, darling?", he asked with a small smile. "you know what... i was going to act like nothing happened yesterday, but i need us to resume whatever we were doing back then right now.", you looked him dead in the eye. "but i don't want to push you-" "you're not pushing me...", you took a deep breath, "please?" you didn't have to say another word before his lips were on yours again.

mingyu was laying beside you in his bed, you had your head on his chest - his heart beat was finally calming down. "so...", he trailed off. "yeah.", you breathed out. the two of you laid there in silence. despite having shared a very intimate moment together, there wasn't anything to say. "do you need anything?", he muttered. "... maybe i should go to the bathroom.", you nodded and sat up, "you... it was... nice." you stared at each other for a while, before breaking out into awkward laughter. you pulled the sheets up to cover you chest. suddenly you felt so vulnerable. "do you want me to get you a shirt or something?", he asked. you hummed in response. mingyu got up and handed you a shirt from his closet, which you quickly pulled over your head. "thanks.", you got up and went to his bathroom. "y/n.", he said before you could go inside, "do you want to stay over for dinner?" "... sure.", you nodded.

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you kept seeing mingyu intimately for the rest of your last week. it was nice to be able to have that relationship with someone again, and you had definitely hit the jackpot in terms of rebounds. it wasn't just that he was insanely attractive, but there was something sweet about everything that he did. through all of his actions, you could tell that he cared for you.

it was the last day of your stay at your aunts cottage. your things were neatly packed up, except for one dress - which you were going to wear at the barbecue mingyu was hosting tonight. it was the same dress you had put on last time, and mingyu had promised to wear the same thing he wore then too - to make it seem like the first time never actually happened. when you approached his gate that evening, you could already hear people laughing and talking in the backyard. you swallowed whatever nerves were keeping you from going inside, and opened the gate. "y/n, hi!", mingyu said happily and gave you a hug. "do i look okay?", you whispered in his ear. "trust me, if it weren't for the amount of people here i would-" you slapped his shoulder before he could finish his sentence. he grinned at you, and you went on to greet the other guests.

at the end of the night, you were the last guest there. you were helping mingyu clean up. much like a few days ago, you were standing beside each other while doing the dishes. "this was nice.", you admitted, "thanks." "it was my pleasure.", he put down the last of the dishes, "it's your last day here, isn't it?" "it is.", you nodded, "are you staying longer?" "just a few more days, i still have some things to finish patching up.", he sighed, "i'll be lonely without you, darling." you looked at him with flirtatious smile before going back to focusing on the dishes. mingyu gently pushed your hair to let it fall over one of your shoulders. he took his place behind you and wrapped his arms around your waist. at first he was only leaning his chin against your shoulder, but then he began placing loving kisses up your neck to your jaw. "what are you doing?", you giggled. "i thought i should give you one last present before you leave.", you could feel him smile against your skin. you dried your hands on a towel nearby and turned around in his embrace. his eyes almost made him look like a lovesick puppy as he looked down on you. your fingertips graced his jaw, and you cupped his face gently before bringing him in for a kiss. "be my guest.", you muttered against his lips.

you woke up to see his bare back facing you. without realizing it, your fingers gently caressed his skin right where his neck met his shoulders. mingyu stirred in his sleep, and you quickly pulled your hand back. you could stare at his back like this all day. the truth is, you were falling for him. every time you kissed him it just felt right, but you still felt the need to try it over and over again - just to see if it was real. he made you nervous, in the best of ways. he made you laugh until you cried. more importantly, he made you feel loved. it felt too much like it did with wonwoo. it broke your heart, but you had to leave. your things were already packed in the back of your car, you had never given him your phone number, and there was no way he could ever meet you again. you recognized this path all too well, and you couldn't be the other woman for a second time. as you kissed mingyu's shoulder, you said goodbye - and you left without a trace.

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you got home to an empty house in the early afternoon. there was no going back now, you had to build yourself up again. the traveling bags stayed in your car, and you started looking for apartments right away. thanks to the amount of money left over from selling your old apartment, you were able to find a nice rental apartment in a good neighborhood. it was smaller than your last, but had beautiful, big, windows - much like your aunt's cottage. there was one bedroom, a kitchen attached to a smaller living room, and a gorgeous bathroom. it was all you ever wanted. of course, the money wouldn't last forever - you had to get a job. you weren't ready to give up your old life completely, and looked for a job at a prestigious primary school that was situated near your apartment. it wouldn't be like the kindergarten, you would have to work a bit harder, but it would be enough. lucky for you, one of their teachers had just quit - and you got the job.

everything was going your way; you had your own apartment, you had a pretty good job, and you had made it all on your own. maybe it was destiny. what if the whole thing with your ex-husband was meant to be? so that you could be independent, so that you could be happy. however, there was no way you could deny the fact that you missed mingyu. you felt bad for what you did, but for some reason you found it necessary.

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after a year of living your new life, you had developed a routine. every morning you woke up around six am. you got up, made yourself a quick breakfast, got in the shower for a few minutes before getting dressed, and then finally leaving for work. there was only one station between you and the school, you could walk there if you wanted to. today it was raining, so you opted for the metro. while standing in the crowded train that morning you heard a familiar voice calling your name. "y/n?", wonwoo whispered out. you looked up at him with wide eyes. he looked tired, new-parent-tired. as you realized that he really was in front of you and that it wasn't your imagination, you quickly bowed your head in a greeting before turning around.

the two of you got off at the same station, and wonwoo stopped you before you could escape up the escalator. "y/n, how have you been?", he asked with a small smile. "i'm good...", you answered, "i got a new job at the primary school around here." "oh, really? i heard it's quite a distinguished school.", he said. "it is, the kids are great.", you nodded, "... how have you been? how is gyeong-hui?" "oh... uhm.. she's great... we're actually expecting again. we've been trying our best to handle her pregnancy while take care of our little girl.", he pulled out his phone, "it's tough, but it's worth it." he showed you his lockscreen. it was a picture of gyeong-hui holding a baby. she looked happy, and the baby was the cutest you had ever seen. "she's beautiful.", you said and looked back up at him, "she has your eyes." "a lot of people have said that.", he nodded with a small smile, "... i wanted to apologize, y/n." "apologize?", you raised an eyebrow. "for how everything turned out.", he looked down at his shoes, "i'm really sorry.." "it's alright-", you suddenly felt embarrassed and the words came pouring out of your mouth without a second thought, "i've actually been seeing someone new." "really?", wonwoo's eyebrows raised as he looked back at you, "good for you. who's the lucky guy?" "his name is... mingyu.", you smiled, "... we met about a year ago." "i hope it works out for you.", he said, "and i hope i get to meet the guy some time." "for sure!", you said, "listen, i really have to get to my students... it was nice meeting you again!" you said good-bye and swiftly left the station with a flushed face. you had no idea why you had decided to lie. there was a very big chance that you would never meet him again, which would mean that you wouldn't have to show him your "new boyfriend". the lie had made you think of mingyu again, and how it would've been if you had waited for him to wake up that morning. maybe he would've turned around and hugged you close, making some comment about how he forgot to close the blinds the night before. then you would've had breakfast together, and before you left to go home he would've asked for your number. then you would maybe be living with him in an apartment now, just the two of you in a cozy condo.

the rest of the day went as it normally did. you taught second and third graders today, helping them with spelling and reading. at the end of the day, you were waiting for their parents to pick them up. the school had a system where a teacher had to make sure that the people who picked up their kids had their name on a list. usually, you would chat with the caretakers of each kid while they got ready to leave. for some reason, it had become your favorite part of the day - except when the parents were rude, of course. there were only two kids left in the class you were watching over now, a pair of twin girls named ji-u and ari - last name kim. they were sweet girls, and were doing very well with their studies. their grandparents were usually the ones to pick them up, but they were always on time so the twins being the last in the classroom worried you. "hey girls..", you sat down in front of them while they were painting together, "did your grandpa or grandma tell you that they were going to be late today?" "our dad is picking us up today.", ari said, as she was the more outgoing of the two. "is he always a bit late?", you questioned with a kind smile. "yeah.", ari nodded, "he works a lot." ji-u was very focused on her painting of a red house, and didn't answer. you asked her about it, and she muttered out that it was of her grandparents house in the woods. you wanted to ask her more about it, but somebody came through the open classroom door. "sorry i'm late, girls." you looked over and your entire body froze in fear. it was mingyu, dressed to the nines in an expensive looking suit. he was looking at his watch, but as soon as he looked up his eyes locked with yours. "daddy!", ji-u shouted happily and ran up to him and hugged his leg. mingyu looked away from you to hug his daughters in a greeting. you watched as they spoke about how their day was and how much you had taught them this afternoon. you approached the small family with your list. you looked through it, and beside ji-u and ari's names stood "kim mingyu". "they've behaved well, i hope.", he said, not looking up at you. "oh, they've been wonderful - they always are.", you managed to get out. "i'm glad.", he looked up at you with an awkward smile, "do you have something else to do right now?" "um... no." "would you mind following me out to the car? i would like to talk to you." you could only nod, and take a deep breath before following them out the door.

"you left without a trace to become a primary school teacher?", mingyu asked as soon as the doors to his car were closed. you were in the parking lot of the school. it was dead silent and you could hear your heart beat a mile a minute. "i left because i couldn't commit...", you said, "and apparently i was right to do so! you have kids? were you married this entire time?" "i'm widowed.", he sighed. you felt like you could faint out of embarrassment. how did this day only get worse? "i'm sorry-" "it's fine.", he interrupted you, "i should've told you about ji-u and ari... i was going to eventually." there was a pause. you could cut the tension in the air with a knife. mingyu reached for your hand, but you quickly stepped away. "your kids are in the car.", you said discreetly, "this isn't the place to be discussing these things." he handed you his phone after he had opened a new contact. "i want to talk to you again.", he said. you accepted the phone, quickly typing in your number before handing it back to him. he looked at you, and you had never wanted to kiss someone so badly in your life. "you should go.", you whispered. "i'll call you, okay?", he said as he got into his car.

when you got home that evening, you didn't know whether you should cry or shout out of happiness. all of these random occurrences really made you believe in destiny. to celebrate, you took a hot shower and made yourself a gourmet dinner, in the form of your favorite instant ramen, only to sit down on the couch to watch some bad show on netflix. you were in the middle of a bite when you got a call. the caller-ID was unknown, but you already knew who it was. you quickly turned off the volume on the TV and put the bowl of noodles on the coffee table. "hello?", you answered. "hi, it's mingyu.. is this y/n?", he asked. "it is", you chuckled nervously, "hi." "i just put the girls to bed and... i just wanted to make sure you didn't give me a fake number.", he let out a small laugh. "mingyu, i'm really sorry about walking out on you.", you sighed. "no, i get it - you had your reasons.", he said, "it's not like i was being very nice by not letting you in on the fact that i have kids." "well, we didn't really spend much time talking...", you muttered, and succeeded in making mingyu laugh. "no, you're right. we should meet up again sometime." "we definitely should.", you bit your lower lip to contain your happiness, "maybe for a coffee or something? so that we could actually get to know each other." "that'd be fun.", he said, "i'll have to look in my schedule, i've been pretty busy lately." "oh, is that why your parents are picking up ji-u and ari?", you asked before thinking. "yeah..", he sighed, "i'd love to do it myself, but i almost never have the time. being a single dad is difficult." "i could imagine.", you hummed, "but if it helps, your daughters think the world of you." "thanks, y/n.", you could hear that he was smiling, "i'll try to pick them up more often... are you always there for pick up?" "don't try to change your schedule to come and see me while i'm at work.", you chuckled. "you caught me..", he said. "... i'm in charge of ji-u and ari's class on all days except mondays.", you said, "and i'll be there for their school play next week too." "shit, i forgot about the school play.", he groaned, "you know what? i'll make time for it - i just have to make a few calls..." "i'm sure they'll be very pleased if you show up.", you said with a smile, "those girls have worked extra hard, from what i've heard." you heard a young girl's voice in the background, crying. "sorry, y/n, ari's had a nightmare.", he sighed, "i'll see you soon." "don't forget about the play.", you said. "i won't."

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END OF PART ONE