I’ve Always Been A Sucker For Angst And This Is Just Beautiful. Words Can’t Describe How Much I Love
I’ve always been a sucker for angst and this is just beautiful. Words can’t describe how much I love this. The desperate search to bring back your loved one knowing it’s impossible and being told from them to let them out hurts.
Absolutely, once again never ceases to amaze me by how beautiful and amazing your writing is <3
💫Did I even deserve you?💫
✨Pairing: Vampire!Seonghwa x dead!gn!reader ✨Prompt: Vampire Seonghwa is still miserable many decades after losing his soulmate. ✨Word Count: 3.4k ✨Genre: angst, vampire au, soulmate au 🌙Warnings: talks of death, reader is mentioned but not alive in this story, no use of y/n, mentions of Seonghwa not feeding for a long period of time, lost of a loved one, mentions of how he wishes he wasn't on this earth anymore, grief, ghosts, let me know if I missed any warnings! ☀️️Authors note: Got this idea into my head and wanted to explore writing angst in this setting. It is very different from what I usually write and I have worked hard on this one and I am quite pleased with the outcome.
The moon was high up in the sky, illuminating the forest in a light wash of grey. Highlighting the fog that is developing the forest and the castle making it look eerie and abandoned. Cobwebs dancing around windows and moss climbing up the bricks together with the roses that are climbing parts of the castle.
Both beautiful and dangerous.
It was said that sometimes you could see ghosts walking past the windows. Some even claimed to have seen a ghost in the rose garden. Walking around and calling out for their beloved but no response.
Young children were warned not to go there. It was dangerous and better to stay away from a place that would most likely fall in a few decades. The road to the castle was brittled with rocks, thick trees and bushes.
It was not a pleasant road.
Despite that there was a lone figure hiking their way up to the castle, dressed in a black robe. The figure was walking very slowly as if every step towards the castle was painful, making him hurt deeply. Despite that, he continued on with heavy footsteps to the one place he called home.
The owl up in the tree hooted familiarly once he was spotted and the howls of wolves could be heard throughout the forest. None of this bothered the man, for he knew that no one would dare to try and hurt him. A man of the night, a bloodthirsty bloodsucker as the humans once had called people like him.
Now he and his family were nothing more than a mere legend.
A myth.
Something humans wrote stories about without believing they actually existed. Sometimes the man wishes he no longer existed in this world.
It would be easier than walking around the world knowing your fated one was no longer walking this earth.
Unfortunately he was doomed to walk this cruel earth until the end of time as it was now.
The closer he got to his home the more dread and sorrow filled his entire being. He used to be filled with such happiness coming back here but now that was all gone.
The grand doors to the castle opened welcoming, sensing one of its masters returning home. The candles lighting up as he entered the hallway and walked down towards the place where he knew his brothers were residing.
They were expecting him after all. Like they do every year around this time when he gets back from his three month search around the world for anyone who could help him bring back his fated one to life.
And like every year he came back unsuccessful.
It was as if the world was taunting him. Taunting him for not being careful enough. For not appreciating what he had and for being arrogant thinking he could best fate and death because of who he was.
Seonghwa
Your voice.
He stopped what he was doing. Only the wind was blowing in from an opened window. The figure looked around carefully, not making much movements, for us mortals it would have looked like he was completely still.
He shook his head gently. It must have been the wind. It cannot have been your voice he heard.
You are no longer here he told himself as he continued his walk towards the room his brothers were in. He could not have heard your voice whisper his name in the wind. You were dead, no longer walking this earth and it felt like his heart was breaking into thousands of pieces every single day when he remembers that.
He remembers your smile, your laughter, your kindness. Everything that he once took for granted he now misses with such intensity that he does not know what to do with himself. It is like the joy he once had is now gone, sucked out of his body leaving behind a cold empty shell.
He starts walking again. He knows his brothers have heard him arrive and he knows that they are waiting for him. The closer he gets the more he can hear them. Shuffling around in the living room, living their normal lives.
Not stricken by grief.
The doors open once again welcoming, just like the front doors to one of its masters returning home and the noise dies down as he steps inside looking around at his family. They are all there. The first ones he notices are the two brunettes sitting together on the sofa. Yunho, Yeosang. Then he sees the them, San, Wooyoung. The latter holding a large book, open on some random page that they seemed to have been discussing before he arrived. He searched for the youngest of his brothers who he found standing next to the tall blond man near the table. Jongho. Mingi. He counted them in his head, he looked around, searching for the leader of his coven. He found him, standing near the big window gazing out into the garden. Hongjoong.
A part of him felt a little better after doing the count. For some reason he had worried they would not all be here when he came back despite the fact that they were always there. No doubt. They would always be here to welcome him home after his long journey.
The blond at the window turned around and when their eyes met he gave him a smile.
"Welcome home Seonghwa. We have missed you." He said taking a few short steps forward to greet him. Taking him into an embrace which he returned.
"I am glad to be back." Seonghwa replied even if it was only half the truth. He was glad to be back seeing his brothers but in reality he was not overly pleased being back without a solution to his suffering.
"How was your journey around the world? Did you find what you were searching for?" Hongjoong questioned even though Seonghwa suspected he already knew the answer to that just like the rest in the room listening in on their conversation.
"Unfortunately I have yet to find someone or something that could help me bring back my loved one." He told him, his shoulders slumping forward. He tried to put on a neutral face but Hongjoong was smart, he could see through his facade quicker than anyone else in their coven. His eyes had shown a glimt of understanding as he nodded carefully.
"You look awful, have you been feeding at all when you have journeyed???" Wooyoungs voice pierced through the air, clearly targeted at him and he could only shrug his shoulders opting not to look at the younger vampire.
"I do not feel hungry anymore Wooyoung." Was the only thing he could give as a response and if he had not already been dead the look Wooyoung sent him would have put him 5 feet under the ground as they spoke.
"You have to feed Seonghwa. It is not healthily to avoid feeding for as long as you have! Lat time I saw you feed was three months ago before you left!" Wooyoung stalked towards him "Are you telling me you have not feed in three months??"
They stared at each other for a long while. He knew all of them already knew the answer. It was the same every year and like every year before this year Wooyoung always grew furious when he figured that he had been neglecting his own health.
Again.
He could feel the energy around him tense up. The others were clearly not happy at all with this and yet despite that Seonghwa could not get himself to care about it. Had it been the other way around he would have been furious, furious at his brothers for ignoring their health and not eating but since it was him and not them he found himself often not caring. He would rather wallow in his grief, allowing the ugly feelings tormenting him to come to the surface in various ways.
"How is my beloved? Are they still safe in their casket?" He asked, voice cracking at the word beloved.
The very thought of you not being there or the possibility of something happening to you whilst he was gone was terrifying to him and he had to fight hard to stop the tears wanting to well up in his eyes.
Wooyoungs furious eyes soften instantly when he had asked the question and the other looked at him with sympathy. Yunho nodded confirming that you were still safe, still protected in the garden he had grown just for you.
"They are safe Seonghwa. We have made sure nothing could harm them whilst you were away." San said, giving him that kind smile only San could give someone when they needed it the most. Seonghwa felt like he could see the stars in his brothers eyes at that moment and it never failed to amaze him how much love and adoration could be seen in Sans eyes and how it was always something very real. It never faded or changed no matter how many decades had passed and right now he was thankful for it.
For the love and compassion his brothers were showing him.
"Why do you not sit down? Tell us about your journey? What has changed in the world since last time you went outside?" Hongjoong questioned whilst leading him over to the big chair, gently guiding him to eventually sit down in it. A blanket was placed over him, Mingi moving with utmost care to wrap it around him to keep him warm. He almost let words of protests out until he saw the worry in his eyes.
"Your beloved would not want you neglecting yourself like this." Was all he said with a low rumble before standing up and walking over to Jongho.
That stung.
His heart ached at the comment Mingi had said. Everyone had heard it. It was impossible for them not to hear him. They just pretended like nothing had been said but he knew they were silently agreeing with him. Agreeing with the statement that you, his beloved, who no longer walked this earth, would not want him to neglect himself and his health.
He wants to respond. To deny what Mingi has said. He has rationalized in his head that you would be okay with what he is doing so he can bring you back and the two of you can live together again like you did before.
The rest of his coven sits down all looking at him with curious eyes. Waiting for him to start telling them about his journey.
"It is all the same. Nothing has really changed in the outside world. We are still myths and legends. The only thing that has changed amongst humans is their greed. I would say they have become even greedier and distrusting than before."
"Humans have always been greedy and distrusting Seonghwa." Hongjoong cut him off before sending an apologetic look when he glared at his coven leader.
"I would say they are even more so now than before. I searched through every country on this bloody earth and I found no one. No one who could help me bring my beloved back. The sights I saw when wandering should have taken my breath away but all it did was make me angry. Furious that they were not next to me witnessing it all. At one point on a cliff looking out at the ocean I screamed. I cursed everything living and dead that day. I was so angry and I still am." Seonghwa spoke, his hands fiddling with the blanket as his eyes darken in anger.
His brothers look at each other in worry. They had hoped after many decade that Seonghwas fury and anger would dwindle down but it only seemed to grow with each year. Wooyoung looked at his older brother and friend in sorrow, he had been close to you, Seonghwas beloved, when you were still living and breathing. He understood the pain and anger Seonghwa was feeling but he also knew that you would not wish this upon anyone. Once having confided in him that you would want them to move forward to be happy, not to forget but to eventually come to cherish what had been rather than constantly living in the past thinking of what you could have done together if only things had gone differently.
"And I-" Seonghwa started but stopped once he heard it again.
Seonghwa.
He looked around. He swore he had heard your voice again. This time it could not have been the wind for no window was open.
"Hwa? What is wrong?" Yunhos voice brought him back from his thoughts as he turned to look at him.
"Y-you did not hear that?"
"Hear what?"
"Nothing." He shakes his head "It was nothing."
"Perhaps you should go and rest?" Yeosang chimed in and the others agreed, nodding their heads.
Seonghwa looked at them before glancing around again, he was sure he heard you but now since none other than him seems to have heard you he wonders if some rest would actually help him.
So he nods and he can see the other's shoulders drop down in relaxation as if they had been expecting him to put up a fight and argue with them about resting.
"Perhaps I should... but I would like to go see them first." He feels stupid, like a child asking for permission to do something when he is the oldest in the coven. He could do whatever he wanted and if that was to go out into the rose garden and visit you then he could without permission.
He stands up before anyone can answer what he has said, he lays the blanket back on the chair before he strides towards another sets of doors which will lead him back to a corridor and down a few flight of stairs before he can enter the garden.
The doors open immediately for him and he makes a point of quietly thanking the castle for opening its doors for him. He remembers the first time he had gone out on his three month journey. When he had come back inconsolable wanting to leave that room to go see you the castle had refused. Refused to open its doors and windows for its master to go wherever he pleased.
Not until he had calmed down and only the silent tears were staining his cheeks had he been allowed out. It was after his brothers had held him close, allowing him to grieve in safety and then being given a cup of blood to drink by Wooyoung to help stabilize himself.
After that the castle had always listened to him. And now he was walking with a sense of purpose, he had to see you again. It always pains him to be away from you for three months when he spends almost every single day around you. Tending to the roses or cleaning the glass casket you lay inside whilst talking quietly to you about his days or how much he misses you.
As he walks out of the door and into the garden he stops in his tracks when he sees something or other someone walking ahead of him.
You.
He cannot stop himself before he rushes forward and just as he is to grab your hand you vanish.
"No... No no no no no!" He mumbles to himself, now sprinting towards the rose garden, you cannot be gone.
You cannot.
Seonghwa almost trips over the steps leading up to where you lay and he stops at the casket breathing heavily gripping it tightly as he takes you in.
You are still there. Untouched. Just like the way you had been when he had left three months ago.
"My beloved." He whispers and just like that the tears are welling up again in his eyes.
Seonghwa. My love.
Seonghwa gasps as he hears your voice again turning around since he can hear your voice from behind him. He had not expected to actually see you. You are pale, standing there and he notes as he falls down on his knees in shock that you are slightly transparent.
"My beloved. My love." He says while the first tear fall down his pale cheek. His voice is growing thick with emotion and when you look at him with those sad eyes he cannot help himself from crawling up to you trying to take ahold of your hand in his only to realize he is unable to.
"No. Please no. Please." He whimpers looking up at you as the waterworks starts afresh.
You have to let me go.
"No! No no no no please I cannot do that. Please I am sorry I cannot live in a world without you. Please do not leave me." He pleads over and over again trying to take ahold of you but he keeps going through you. His eyes looks almost wild as he tries everything to be able to hold you.
You can see how his heart breaks over and over at not being able to hold you and you know you cannot be visible for much longer.
I love you.
When Seonghwa notices that you are disappearing from his view is when he goes into hysterics. He wails for you to come back to him, he screams in fear, anger and grief and it echos loudly throughout the entire forest. He roars in anger, smashing a statue before breaking down again near the casket. Sobbing over and over again that he is sorry, that he wishes you would come back to him. He asks for death to take him once and for all so he can reunite with you.
He grips his head as he cries, wails and screams in fury and sadness. It is like an explosion he cannot control. Seonghwa is unsure of how much time has passed but he finds that he does not care. All he cares about is that he saw you and he could not hold you one last time like he wished he could. He contemplates for a moment to destroy your casket just so he could hold you in his arms again but he physically cannot make that move.
He cannot destroy your last sleeping place. That would be like spitting on your entire existence if he did, so he finds himself hurting himself and the statues and rose bushes around himself in a fit of anger.
Up in the castle seven figures are looking out of the window from the room they still were in. Hearing Seonghwas wails of agony and grief pained them. It was as if someone was driving a spear into their non-beating heart over and over again.
"I wish I could take away all is pain and suffering. All this grief." Jongho mumbles before leaning close to Hongjoong, hiding his face in the crook of his leaders neck as said man brings an arm around him to bring comfort.
"I never want to find my soulmate... It will only bring even more anguish to him. He will constantly be reminded of his own soulmate who he no longer has. I do not want to make him go through that." San says, tears building up in his eyes.
"You cannot stop it from happening San. Do not deprive yourself of the happiness of finding your soulmate because Seonghwa lost his. That is not something he would want. He would want you to be happy. You know that San." Yunho said whilst giving the younger a sad smile, tears also in his eyes as Seonghwa continues to scream and wail out apologies, curse words and asking for you to come back to him.
"Grief... What is not grief if not love persevering. It is proof of how much he has loved and cherished his beloved. He was just too blind in the moment that he thought he could best death and now all these years later after death won he cannot handle it. Because he has yet to fully accept that they are gone. He has yet to accept that they are gone. It might take years until he gets over the stages of anger, denial, depression and guilt. We will be there to help him through it all. I was thinking of going with him next year so he will not be alone on his journey." Hongjoong says eyes sharply focused on the figure down below.
Eyes slightly widening when he sees something or someone behind his brother before it disappears. He could have sworn it looked like you but he must have been wrong. It was probably the tears in his eyes clouding his vision.
It could not have been you.
You were dead.
Gone.
Forever.
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Popular, Boy
☆03: The first betrayal.
Pairing: Nerd!Hongjoong x Popular!Reader
Genre: +18, slow burn, angst, smut, drama, dark academic, love triangle.
wc: 8,6k
Summary: Tensions simmer as alliances fracture , and lines are crossed; forcing one unexpected figure to take a stand. But every choice has a price, and betrayal lurks where it's least expected.
Leaving friendship and loyalties hanging by a thread.
Warnings: Cursing, verbal abuse, public humiliation, emotional manipulation, power dynamics, fluff, SMUT (MDN!!) Sub!Hongjoong, Virgin!Hongjoong, oral (m receiving) cum eating, use of pet names (good boy) suggestive.
Series masterlist
☆02 ☆04: The first surrender.
The next few days passed in a whirlwind of your world enveloping Hongjoong entirely.
On monday, you made a show of having Hongjoong walk you to class, your hand looped through his arm as if he were some prized accessory. Your laugh rang out in the hallway, over-exaggerated yet charming enough to keep everyone’s attention firmly on you.
Hongjoong smiled sheepishly, still unsure how to navigate this new role. Despite your guidance, he couldn’t shake the feeling of being out of place, like a puzzle piece forced into the wrong picture.
By Tuesday afternoon, your curiosity got the better of you.
"You’re always talking about books and nerdy stuff." You teased, leaning against the library’s entrance "Show me what’s so interesting about it."
He blinked in surprise, adjusting the strap of his backpack. He wasn’t sure if you were serious or just looking for another way to flaunt your dominance. Still, the chance to share a piece of himself was oddly appealing.
"Uh, okay." He said, leading you to a quiet corner of the library.
You trailed behind, your heels clicking softly against the tiled floor. When you reached the shelves, Hongjoong’s demeanor shifted. His posture relaxed as he ran his fingers along the spines of the books, his face lighting up in a way you hadn’t seen before.
"This one’s incredible," He said, pulling a worn paperback from the shelf. The cover featured a pirate ship hurtling through the clouds. "It’s about a crew exploring the universe, trying to find a new home after their planet’s destroyed. The writing is just… amazing."
You arched a brow, your manicured nails tapping lightly against the edge of a nearby table. "Sounds... intense."
"It is," Hongjoong replied eagerly, flipping through the pages "But it’s also about relationships and survival. You’d like it, I think."
You leaned closer, taking the book from him, inspecting it like a rare artifact "You think I’d like it? Bold assumption."
Hongjoong chuckled nervously "Well, maybe not the battles. But the characters… they’re complicated, just like you."
Your lips curved into a smirk, and you handed the book back "Careful, Hongjoong. You’re starting to sound charming."
You spent the next hour browsing, with Hongjoong pointing out his favorite authors and you occasionally picking up a book just to make a witty comment about its cover. It was strange, almost surreal.
YN Clarke, the queen bee, immersed in his world.
At one point, you plopped down on a cushioned chair and crossed your legs elegantly.
"Okay, impress me." You said, holding out a slim notebook you had pulled from your bag. He hesitated, then sat across from you, scribbling a quick sketch of the pirate ship he’d described earlier. He showed it to you shyly, half-expecting a sarcastic remark. Instead, you studied it thoughtfully. "Not bad," You admitted, handing it back "Maybe you’re not as boring as I thought."
Your words were teasing, but the tone was softer, almost approving.
For the first time, Hongjoong felt like you were seeing him, not as a project or a pawn, but as something more. But just as quickly as the moment came, it passed.
You stood, brushing imaginary dust off your skirt "Alright, nerd. Let’s go. I’m starving."
"Where to?" He asked, slipping the notebook back into his bag.
"Back to my place," You said with a wink "You can show me more of your… fascinating hobbies while we snack."
As you left the library, Hongjoong couldn’t help but feel a strange mix of pride and unease. Your approval was addictive, but at what cost?
That afternoon was spent at your house, watching movies or listening to music in your plush room. You sprawled out on your bed, phone in hand, while Hongjoong sat awkwardly on the edge.
"You can relax, you know," You teased, patting the space beside you.
He hesitated before joining you, feeling your warmth radiate beside him. You tilted your head to look at him, your lips curving into a soft, knowing smile.
"See? This isn’t so bad."
By Wednesday, you had fully integrated Hongjoong into your routine. You sit with him at lunch, laughing at his jokes, and an odd sincerity in your gaze when you look at him.
For a moment, the lingering tension, the unspoken dynamics, and the ever-watchful shadow of Dann keeps Hongjoong’s heart uneasy, even as he tries to enjoy the fleeting comfort of your charm.
Little did you know, the world you were teetering on the edge of, was about to shift once again.
✮ ⋆
That same day, the tension between Seonghwa and you had reached a boiling point. It wasn’t just about your weird relationship anymore, it was about the power shift that Hwa couldn’t ignore.
You had been spending all your time with the nerd, and he couldn’t stand being sidelined.
At lunch, Seonghwa makes his move.
You are at your usual table, Hongjoong at your side, your heads bent close as you laugh over some private joke. His jaw tightens at the sight.
Without waiting for an invitation, he walks over, towering above you “YN,” He says curtly, his voice cutting through your laughter “We need to talk.”
You barely glance up, your gaze cool. “About what?”
“Alone.” He insists, his tone sharp.
Your lips curl into a faint smirk “If it’s so important, you can say it here.”
Seonghwa’s eyes flicks to Hongjoong, who stiffs slightly under his gaze “Fine,” He says tightly, crossing his arms “What’s with you? Ever since the party, it’s been all about him.” He jerks his chin toward Hongjoong “You’ve barely said two words to me.”
“So?”
Seonghwa let out a bitter laugh “You’re unbelievable. I get it now. He’s your new toy, right? Your latest project… What’s the plan, YN? To make him worship you till you get bored?”
Your eyes narrow as you rise slowly from your seat, meeting Seonghwa head-on “You’ve got some nerve, Park. Is this jealousy? Or are you just mad that you’re no longer the center of my world?”
He steps closer, his voice lowering but his words sharper “You think I’m mad because you’re ignoring me? No, Clarke. I’m mad because I know you, and I know how this ends. You ignore me and then come back to me like nothing happened, it's tiring.”
“Stop complaining, I can handle myself.”
“Can you?” Hwa shoots back, leaning in slightly, his voice dropping to a dangerous whisper. “What would your brother think if he knew about your little extracurricular activities? The drinking? The parties? The weed?”
Hongjoong frowns at his words. Brother? Do you have a brother?
Your composure cracks further. The mention of your older brother makes your stomach twist. You could almost feel the sting of his hand across your face, the disappointed look in his eyes as he coldly tells your parents everything.
“Careful, Hwa. You don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“Oh, I know plenty. Imagine if your brother finds out. What’s his name again? Oh, right—Mr. Perfect. He still thinks you’re his sweet, innocent little sister, doesn’t he?” Seonghwa grinds, he isn’t done “How do you think he would react if he found out about all the bad things you've done since he left? Or better yet, how do you manipulate people and toss them aside like trash? Bet he wouldn’t be too proud of his baby sister then.”
“You wouldn’t dare.” You say between your teeth, almost a murmur.
“Oh, I would,” His grin gets bigger “He’s abroad, isn’t he? Perfect son, perfect man... but if he found out about all this?” He gestures vaguely around “How long before he tells your parents? Or better yet, how long before he comes back and shows you what happens when you ruin his perfect family image?”
For a moment, all your confidence falters. Your heart racing at the memory of your brother… your parents’ golden child, the one person you couldn’t afford to disappoint. But you recover quickly, your smirk returning like armor.
“Nice try, Seonghwa. But let’s not forget that you have secrets too. Drinking? Drugs? You think your parents wouldn’t care? You’re a Park. Your last name is everything. What would your father say if he knew his precious son was sneaking around doing God-knows-what? How long do you think that reputation of yours would last?” Hwa’s smirk froze, his confidence visibly shaken for the first time “That’s what I thought,” You continue with an icy voice “So don’t come at me with fucking threats unless you’re prepared to deal with the fallout.”
He scoffs, his frustration evident as he turns and walks away “You’ll regret this.” He mutters under his breath before disappearing into the crowd.
As Seonghwa walks away, your mask slips for just a second, jaw clenching and your eyes flashing with anger and fear.
Hongjoong frowns confused “What was that about? Is he threatening you?”
You exhale sharply, brushing off his concern “Don’t worry about it. Seonghwa’s all talk.”
But your voice lacks its usual conviction, and Hongjoong isn't entirely convinced.
As you return to your conversation, your mind churns, plotting your next move. Whatever it takes, you’d make sure your secrets stay buried.
✮ ⋆
After lunch, your mood seemed lighter to anyone who didn’t know you well, but Hongjoong could see the subtle tension in your shoulders, the slight edge to your voice.
You barely touched your food, and your eyes kept darting around the cafeteria, likely searching for Seonghwa.
As the bell rings and students begin to shuffle to their next classes, you grab Hogjoong’s arm, pulling him close
“We’re skipping.” You announce, leaving no room for argument.
“What? YN, I can’t—”
“You can, and you will.” You interrupt him, locking your gaze with his “I need to relax, and you’re going to help me. Now come on.”
Without waiting for a response, you drag him through the hallway, your grip firm as you lead him to a quiet, empty classroom on the far side of the building.
“YN, what’s going on?” He asks as you close the door behind you, the soft click of the lock making his heart race.
You turn to face him, your expression unreadable for a moment before a sly smirk creeps into your lips.
“You’re going to make me forget about Seonghwa and his stupid threats.”
Hongjoong blinks, caught off guard by your sudden shift in tone “What does that mean?”
“It means,” You step closer to him, your fingers toying with the collar of his shirt “That I need a distraction. And you’re it.”
His breath hitch as your hands slid to his chest “YN, I don’t think—”
“Stop thinking, Kim.” You whisper, lips brushing against his ear “Just do what I say.”
Before he can respond, you press yourself against him, your lips finding his in a heated kiss. His resolve crumbles almost instantly, his hands finding your hips as you deepen the kiss.
You push him back against the desk, movements confident and calculated. As you straddle him, your fingers trail teasingly along the waistband of his pants, your touch light but deliberate, as you glance up at him with a sly smirk.
He holds his breath for a sec, his hands gripping your hips tightly. He looks down at you, wide-eyed and unsure, but there is no mistaking the nervous excitement that flickers in his gaze.
“You’re so tense, Joongie.” You purr with a soft but teasing tone “Relax. I’ll take care of everything.”
Your fingers toy with the fabric for a moment longer before tugging gently, letting his pants slide down his hips, and letting free his length already hard as a fuck.
Is he hard with just a few kisses? Cute
Taking a deliberate step closer, your hands gliding up his thighs as you position yourself between his legs, arching your back as you go down on your knees, your smirk growing as you notice the way his whole body tenses.
Hongjoong’s feels his face burning, his breath coming in short, shallow bursts as he struggles to meet your gaze. He swallows hard, trying to focus on breathing, but his chest feels tight, like all the air has been sucked out of the room.
He's never been in situations like this before, he doesn't know what to do. He doesn't know where to look, at your hands, at your face, at the classroom door, but his eyes keep drifting back to you, to you in a way he can't control.
He doesn't want to give you any more signs of his embarrassing virginity, but he can't help but feel tense.
“You look like you’re about to pass out.” A soft chuckle leaves your lips, the panic in his eyes seems tender to you “Relax, babe. Just enjoy it.”
His voice cracks as he tries to respond, but all that comes out is a strangled sound. You raise an eyebrow, clearly enjoying his reaction. You let your hands glide up his sides, nails grazing his skin ever so lightly.
“Do you want me to suck you off?” You inquire, looking up, connecting your gaze with his. You wait patiently for an answer by stroking his skin with your fingertips.
Shit, Hongjoong doesn't want to accept it, but you look fucking cute that way.
Kneeling in front of him.
Hongjoong’s jaw drops slightly, and he nods so quickly it's almost comical “Y-Yeah… please.” He stammers, his words barely audible.
“Good boy.” You murmur with a satisfied grin, your fingers brushing over his trembling hands as you guide one up to your head “Hold on if you want. I don’t mind.”
His touch is hesitant, his fingers barely tangling in your soft hair as if he is afraid to push too far. You roll your eyes with a playful smirk, your hands holding his thighs steady as you lean in.
His thick cock is firmly against his stomach, it has a deep shade of pink, and some pre-cum at the tip, its the prettiest dick you've ever seen.
Everything about Kim Hongjoong is pretty.
You hold the base, your fingers barely touching the skin, you start slow with kitty licks on the tip as you test his reactions. Hongjoong’s breaths come in uneven gasps, his chest rising and falling as he tries to process everything happening.
Your hands hold his thighs firmly, keeping him grounded, but his body seems to move on its own, shifting slightly as he instinctively searches for more.
He squeezes his eyes shut, biting his lip to keep from making a sound when suddenly you put all his length in your mouth, the warm feeling of your lips around his dick make his head spin in pleasure.
Soft whimpers escape him as he tilts his head back slightly, relaxing under your touch, enjoying the moment.
Fuck, he never understood why his male classmates always talked about blowjobs as if it were the best thing in the world, and now that he is in this situation, he understands them.
The warm feeling of your mouth around him, the wet sound that comes every time you bob your head, your hand stroking where your mouth can't reach, and the pleasure sounds you let out while savoring every little inch of his cock.
Goddammit! This is the best experience a virgin boy could have.
You glance up at him, relishing the way his head tilts back, his lips part, and his entire being is consumed by the sensation.
Every gasp, and every shaky exhale from his mouth feeds your ego.
“You’re so easy to please.” You tease, pulling back just enough to flash him a knowing smile.
His voice is barely a whisper as he mutters.
“YN, I…”
“Shh.”
As you continue sucking him off, you caress his thighs, and try to enjoy every part of his length. Savoring every inch of his dick, the softness of his tip stroking the back of your throat, the taste of the pre-cum on your tongue…
Fuck, you’re getting more than horny for this nerd.
Hongjoong feels himself nearing the edge, his breaths coming faster, his grip on your hair tightening just slightly causing you to whine. His whole body trembles, his hips moving involuntarily as he tries to hold on, but it's too much.
He is literally fucking your mouth, you couldn't be anything but happy, and your satisfied moan made it clear.
“Fuck… I-I’m close.” He whines with shaky breath, his hips moving a little faster.
You almost let out another whine when you hear him curse for the first time, you didn't think hearing it would make your skin crawl with excitement.
Motivated by the sweet sounds coming out of his lips, you move your head faster, applying more force with your tongue.
Hongjoong gets louder, forgetting where he is for a moment. His gasps turn into soft, needy whimpers, his free hand clutching at the desk behind him as if it was the only thing keeping him on the ground, and with one final moan, he finally reaches his limit, his whole body tenses, his breath catching in his throat as a broken moan escapes him.
“Shit…”
His vision is hazy, but he can appreciate the way you swallow all his load, licking every drop like it's your last meal.
He closes his eyes cursing internally, that is the hottest thing he's ever seen and experienced in his fucking life.
The best of all? It was with you.
When you pull back, just a little to watch his pretty face. You smirk to yourself, knowing that you have him completely undone. A satisfied grin spreads across your face as he slumps back against the desk, utterly tired.
When he finally regulates his breathing, Hongjoong can't bring himself to meet your eyes, his face burning with embarrassment and something else…. something like awe.
“See? Told you I’d take care of it.” You say smugly, standing and cleaning the edge of your mouth, removing any traces of lipstick.
Hogjoong looks up at you, his face red, his chest still heaving “I… I don’t even know what to say.”
You giggle “Don’t say anything.” His tender demeanor makes you laugh a little “Just remember who made you feel this good.”
You approach him to give him one last kiss, Hogjoong groans, he can taste himself in your mouth.
When you break the kiss he looks at you with something new in his eyes, you're not sure what it is, but as long as he's by your side doing everything you ask without question, you won't complain.
From that day on, Hongjoong could only think about you and the amazing first blowjob he received that day.
Maybe he should thank Seonghwa for making you angry.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
That week had been amazing for you and Hongjoong, every interaction and every moment made you feel genuinely closer, and not only because of the small deal you made that day in the school's garden.
There was something more between the two of you but you didn't want to accept it.
However; that whole week was a martyrdom for Dann, you keeped asking her to do uncountable tasks that she can barely have time to do on her own.
In the mornings before going to school, you asked her to bring you breakfast in bed, to organize some things in your backpack, and to carry the books or folders with the work she did for you.
During school hours, you asked her to bring your things to your classroom and a matcha latte before the first class started. At lunch she would go get your and your friends' food.
She looked like a small waitress going from one end to the other with trays in hand.
And when she thought she could rest at home, you called her to do your homework and projects, in addition to cleaning your room, which by the way there was nothing to clean anymore... you just wanted her to waste her time.
One of the things that bothered Dann the most was the fact that not only did you order her what to do, but your friends also asked her to do small errands when they visited your home.
'I'm not their servant,' she used to repeat when Mindy or someone else asked her for something, but your strong gaze and your perfect raised eyebrow forced her not to reproach and to do what they asked.
She was tired, tired of your orders and mistreatment. The worst of all is that no one could help her. Your parents, especially your dad, were okay with you treating her like your personal doll, so she couldn't complain to them.
On the other hand, her mother could only look at her with pity every time your voice calling for her was heard. Dann complained every day to his mother about the things you made her do and she just hugged her, patted her on the back and said it would all be over soon....
But when will it be that, a week has passed and she feels desperate for this martyrdom to end.
Another thing that bothered Dann was the fact that Hongjoong was by your side all the time and watched the daily humiliations without doing anything, without defending her.
They're not supposed to be friends? Why doesn't he defend her as she did several times?
“I want to go shopping.”
Your voice slices through the fog of Dann’s thoughts, yanking her back to reality. She blinks at you with a blank expression, already bracing herself for whatever new errand or degrading task you have in mind.
“Have fun.” Hongjoong says casually, flashing one of his rare, easygoing smiles.
Your perfectly manicured fingers gently swat his arm, your playful grin in stark contrast to the command that follows “You’re coming with me, silly.”
He blinks, taken aback “Wait, me?” He asks, the confusion on his face almost comical.
“Of course. You don't want to come with me?” You tilt your head, feigning innocence, but the glint in your eyes reveals your true intention. You weren't asking him, you were telling him.
Hongjoong hesitates for a moment, his gaze flicking toward Dann, who shrinks back into herself, pretending not to listen.
“I... uh—”
You cut him off, stepping closer and lowering your voice “Don’t tell me you’re saying no, Kim Hongjoong.”
He responds immediately to your harsh tone when saying his name “Shopping it is.”
You clap your hands together in mock excitement “Perfect! You can meet me outside in ten minutes. Oh,” You turn to Dann, a sickly sweet smile spreading across your face, “And you’re coming too. I’ll need someone to carry my bags.”
Dann’s stomach knots as she swallows back a retort. She wants to argue, to tell you she has better things to do, but the cold, expectant look you throw her way dares her to say otherwise.
“I’ll... grab my things.” Dann mutters, her voice barely above a whisper.
You watch her retreating figure with a satisfied smirk, then you turn back to Hongjoong, your tone softening “We’re going to have a lot of fun!”
✮ ⋆
The luxury mall gleams under the bright lights, filled with the chatter of shoppers and the faint sound of background music. You move through the aisles of an upscale clothing store with an air of authority, Hongjoong walks beside you gladly holding your hand while Dann follows at a distance, burdened with shopping bags that seem to multiply by the minute.
You pause your walk in front of a mannequin dressed in a sharp blazer and slim-fit pants.
“This is perfect for you.” You turn to Hongjoong, your eyes scanning him with a mix of scrutiny and mischief “Put it on. Let me see.”
He hesitates, glancing at the price tag “It's so expensive.”
You step closer, your fingers brushing lightly against his as you take the tag out of his hand.
“Don’t look at the price. Your only job is to look good for me.” Hongjoong’s cheeks flush, but he nods and takes the blazer to the fitting room. You turn to Dann, your smirk widening “Careful, Dann. Those bags are worth more than your tuition. Don’t drop them.”
Dann glares at you, but she says nothing, her grip tightening on the handles.
Moments later, Hongjoong reemerges, the blazer fitting him like it was tailored just for him.
Your eyes light up as you clap your hands “I knew it! You look incredible, Joongie!”
You step closer, tugging at the lapels to adjust them. Your hands linger, smoothing the fabric over his chest before trailing down to his forearm. Hongjoong stands frozen, his breath catching as your touch sends a spark through him.
It's only been two days since that incredible blowjob, an act too intimate in his opinion, but he still can't help but feel shy about your touch and presence in general.
You lean teasingly close enough that he can feel your breath “I might just keep you dressed like this all the time. You look hot.”
Hongjoong chuckles nervously, his face bright red. Your lips curve into a sly smile, and before he can react, you lean in, brushing your lips softly against his mouth. Giving him a little peak.
“Consider it a reward for being such a good boy.”
He feels his ears burn, and his pulse racing at the sudden show of affection. Also; that pet name makes him feel something he shouldn't.
Dann, standing a few feet away, shifts uncomfortably, her expression a mix of bitterness and hurt.
✮ ⋆
You are sitting in a plush chair, slipping on a pair of sleek red stilettos. You stretch your leg out, admiring the way the shoes accentuate your figure. Hongjoong sits nearby, fidgeting with the hem of his shirt, while Dann sits on a bench surrounded by luxury brand bags with all your purchases.
You glance up at Hongjoong with a mischievous smile “What do you think? Pretty?”
You tilt your foot, the curve of the stiletto catching the light.
Hongjoong stammers, his eyes darting nervously “Uh… They’re… pretty.”
“Is that all you’ve got?”
You stand, crossing the short distance to him. Placing your hands on the arms of his chair, leaning closer, your face inches from his.
“Say it like you mean it, Joong.”
He swallows hard, his voice barely above a whisper “You’re stunning.”
You smirk, clearly pleased. You straighten up, brushing a hand lightly across his shoulder as you walk back to your seat.
“That 's better. I like it when you’re honest.”
Dann shifts awkwardly, her eyes darting between you two. You notice and smirk again,
“We’ll take these. And those boots too.” You say to the salesperson with a sweet smile.
“YN, you really don’t need to buy me things.”
“Hongjoong…” You cut him off as you step closer again “I want to do it.”
Your thumb brushes lightly over his shirt, and he nods, his breath hitching.
Dann looks away, her face tight as she pretends not to notice.
✮ ⋆
All of you step out into the cool evening air, the weight of the shopping bags palpable, well… at least for Dann.
You walk confidently ahead, your hand joined with Hongjoong's was becoming a habit, casual intimacy.
“See? That wasn’t so bad, was it? Shopping is fun.” You tease with a grin.
Hongjoong chuckles nervously, his gaze darting to the bags Dann carries.
“I feel bad, though. About, you know… her.”
Your smile falters slightly, but you recover quickly, tightening your grip on his hand.
“She needs this. It’s character building.” You stop abruptly, turning to face him. Your free hand reaches up to toy with the collar of his denim jacket “And you need this too. You’re not the same guy you were last week, Hongjoong.” You lean in, your lips capturing his, lingering just enough to make his knees weak “You’re mine now. Don’t forget that.”
Hongjoong nods, his heart pounding as you lead him to your car.
Behind you, Dann struggles to keep up, her expression a mixture of bitterness and heartbreak.
YN and Hongjoong holding hands.
YN brushing her lips against his in fleeting, possessive kisses.
YN laughing, her voice light and carefree, while Hongjoong smiled at her like she hung the stars.
Each glance they shared felt like a dagger. It wasn’t just the weight of the bags that left Dann breathless; it was the sight of Hongjoong, her Joong, so completely absorbed into your orbit.
Dann swallows the lump in her throat as a sharp ache settles in her chest. She had known this day would come…. the day Hongjoong is fully absorbed into your world, but it didn’t make it any easier.
For every bag she carried, there was another piece of herself being stripped away, replaced by bitter envy and an unbearable sense of invisibility.
By the time they reached your sprawling mansion, the sun was dipping below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The estate was as imposing as ever, with its perfectly manicured lawns and grand double doors.
You toss your keys to the porter, your demeanor as effortless and commanding as always.
“Let’s head up to my room,” You say, turning to Hongjoong with a smile that could light up the night “Snacks and a movie sound good?”
Hongjoong hesitates, glancing at Dann, who stands at the base of the grand staircase, clutching the bags like they were her lifeline.
It's not the first time he's spent the afternoon at your house, but having Dann right there watching your interactions makes guilt consume him.
“Uh… yeah, sure.” He mumbles, torn between your intoxicating pull and the pang of remorse that lingers whenever he sees Dann.
“Dann.” You call sharply, breaking Hongjoong’s thoughts “Take these up to my closet. Organize everything by type and color. Oh! And tell your mom to bring up snacks for us in ten minutes.”
Dann’s stomach churn, but she nods, her jaw tightening as she obeys.
Inside your room, the atmosphere is a world away from the cold detachment of the mansion downstairs. The expansive space is bathed in soft pastel tones, luxurious fabrics, and delicate lighting from the ornate chandeliers.
Despite its size and splendor, the room always feels surprisingly intimate.
You plop into the oversized bed, tossing your designer heels to the floor without care as you pat the spot beside you, looking at Hongjoong with an expectant smirk.
“Come on, don’t be weird about it. Sit.”
Hongjoong sits down, his posture stiff despite the number of times he's been there now. You roll your eyes, leaning into him with playful ease. “Relax, Joongie. I don’t bite… unless you want to.” You tease, running a hand lightly over his arm.
He gives you a little shy smile, but says nothing.
The movie began playing on the massive screen, though neither of you seemed particularly interested in it. You lean back against his shoulder, your head resting there comfortably.
You grab a handful of popcorn from the tray one of the maids had just delivered, holding a piece up to his lips, fingers brushing against his mouth as you feed him, and you smirk when you notice him blush.
As Hongjoong grows more comfortable, his gaze wanders around your room. His eyes caught on a silver-framed photo on your nightstand. It shows you smiling—truly smiling—beside a tall, impeccably dressed man with striking features.
“Is he your brother? The one that Seonghwa mentioned that day?” He asks cautiously, nodding toward the photo.
Your teasing smirk falters for a moment, and your body stiff slightly against him. You sit up and grab the frame, holding it in your hands as your eyes trace over the image.
“Yeah… That’s Mike.”
Hongjoong sense a shift in your tone, the lightness replace by something far heavier “I didn't know you had a brother.”
“Almost no one knows, only a few. He’s... perfect. The perfect son, the perfect student, the perfect everything.” Your fingers grip the frame a little tighter “He’s the reason I’ll never be good enough for my parents, no matter what I do.”
He frowns, leaning in slightly “YN...”
You force a small laugh, though it sounds hollow “He’s studying abroad now, getting his business master’s degree. Every time he comes back, it’s just to remind me how much better he is at everything. And if he ever found out about... stuff, he’d make sure my parents knew. It’d be game over for me.”
Your words falter as if Seonghwa’s voice still echoes in your mind from that day in the cafeteria.
'How do you think he would react if he found out about all the bad things you've done since he left?'
Hongjoong shifts closer, his hand resting gently on yours as you hold the photo “YN, nobody’s perfect—not even him. And you’re not... you’re not as bad as you think you are.”
You look at him, lips pressing into a tight line “You don’t know him, Hongjoong. He would... he’d destroy me if he knew half the things I’ve done.” Your voice cracks slightly, and you quickly look away.
Hongjoong hesitates before squeezing your hand gently “Maybe he’s not as invincible as you think. Maybe he’s got his own flaws, like everyone else.”
You let out a bitter laugh, wiping at your eye quickly as if you would never show vulnerability for too long.
“That’s generous of you.”
“No, it’s honest. You’re more than whatever shadow he’s cast over you. I mean it.”
For a moment, you just stare at him. Your usual sharpness seems to melt away, replaced by something softer, something raw. Then you set the photo back on the nightstand, your hand lingering on it briefly.
“Thanks…” You murmur, so softly it's almost inaudible.
He leans back with you again, letting you rest your head on his shoulder once more. Neither of you say anything, but the silence isn’t uncomfortable.
It’s a rare moment of understanding, one they both seem to need.
As Dann carries the bags upstairs, she hears the faint sounds of your laughter and Hongjoong’s responses through the closed bedroom door.
Her heart twists, the weight of the shopping bags nothing compared to the invisible burden she carries.
Dann unpacks the bags in your enormous closet, her hands moving automatically as her mind replays every painful moment of the day. When she finishes, she sits on the edge of your chaise lounge, staring at the floor.
From the hallway, she hears soft laughter and murmurs from your room, each sound a reminder of how far you and Hongjoong have drifted apart.
Her mother passes by with a tray of tea, her face tight with worry as she glances at her daughter. Dann gives her a weak smile, but as the door to your room closes behind her mother, the bitterness and heartbreak she’d been holding back finally spills over.
She sits in silence, the faint echoes of your laughter stabbing at her like tiny needles.
In that grand mansion filled with people, Dann had never felt so utterly alone.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
Once again, Dann sighs tired while she organizes your and your friends' drinks on the table.
“Careful, Dann. If you spill anything, that’s just more work for you.”
She wants to roll her eyes at your words but she doesn't want to make a scene.
“Honestly, she should be thanking you, YN. Who else would give her such a generous chance to repay her debt?”
Dann places the drinks carefully on the table, her hands trembling slightly from exhaustion and frustration. She doesn’t reply to those sharp comments, knowing that any response could worsen her situation.
Mindy laughs, taking a sip of her coffee “She’s like your little pet now, Babe. So obedient.”
Dann grits her teeth but keeps her head down, focusing on arranging the drinks neatly “I’m not a pet.”
You raise an eyebrow, your sharp ears catching the quiet defiance “What was that, Dann?”
Dann stiffens, her hands clenching into fists by her sides. She looks up, meeting your cold gaze with as much courage as she can muster.
“I said I’m not a pet.”
The table goes silent for a moment, the air thick with tension. You lean back in the chair, crossing your legs elegantly. Your lips curve into a dangerous smile.
“Not a pet? Funny, because you’re doing a pretty good impression of one. Running around, fetching drinks, doing homework. Should I get you a designer leash next?”
Mindy and the others burst into laughter, and Dann feels her face burn with humiliation.
“YN, maybe that’s a bit much…” Hongjoong quietly, almost hesitantly says.
“Oh, now you have something to say? Where was this energy all last week when she was crying about carrying my books?”
Hongjoong looks down, not daring to meet your eyes. Dann glances at him, hoping for some semblance of solidarity, but he avoids her gaze entirely.
You sigh dramatically and turn your attention back to Dann “Now, Dann, let’s be clear. You ruined an expensive dress, so until I say otherwise, you’re working for me. Unless you’d rather I take the cost straight from your mom’s paycheck?”
Dann’s breath catches, and she clenches her fists tighter “No... I’ll keep working.”
“Good girl. Now, you’ve wasted enough time here. Go grab some snacks.”
Dann hesitates, her pride fighting against the inevitable, but ultimately she turns and walks toward the counter.
“Anyways, tomorrow I won't come, my father has a billion-dollar meeting and important executives will have dinner at my house, so don't miss me too much.” You drink your smoothie gracefully and your friends laugh.
“That's right, queen, I hope your dad gets those billions and can go on that summer trip that we have planned.”
“Of course it will be, my daddy is the best at his job.”
When Dann returns to the table, you look up at her with a saccharine smile “Took you long enough. Now clean this up, and make it quick. We’re leaving soon.”
Dann nods silently, her head low, as she leaves the snacks on the table and starts cleaning it. Her chest feels heavy, but she pushes the feelings down, knowing there’s no use fighting back.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
It’s a rare day at school without you on her all the time. Dann feels a strange mix of relief and unease knowing you are back at your mansion, preparing for your father’s dinner.
With no errands to run for you, Dann finally has a moment to herself.
She sits quietly in the library with Jongho, Yeosang and Yunho, all of them engrossed in a shared book, when Hongjoong unexpectedly joins them.
“Hey, guys.” He greets them happily.
“Aren't you going to play at being popular today?” Jongho makes fun of him and he rolls his eyes while taking a seat next to Yunho.
“She is not here today Jongho….” Dann murmurs without taking her eyes out of the book, but then she frowns, looking at Hongjoong “Wait, why aren’t you with her friends? Did they give you the day off, too?”
“As you said, YN is not here. Why should I stay with her annoying friends? I prefer to hang out with you guys.” Hongjoong shrugs, smiling to see his friends here.
“Why?” Yeosang narrows his eyes at him.
This looked suspicious, for two weeks he ignored them as if they hadn't been friends since high school, and now he's coming back as if nothing happened.
“What do you mean, why? Can’t I just hang out with my friends?”
Yunho raises an eyebrow “We haven’t exactly been friends since... well, since you started following YN like a dog.”
Hongjoong lowers his gaze in sorrow “That’s not fair. Things are complicated with her.”
Jongho snorts “Complicated? That’s a nice way of putting it. You mean stupidity.”
Hongjoong shifts uncomfortably but doesn’t respond right away. Instead, he glances at the book in their hands.
“You’re still into these epic fantasy novels, huh? Guess some things never change.”
Yunho smiles softly “And you’re still into coding, I bet. Or did YN ban you from being a nerd?”
Everyone laughs at the tallest funny remark, even Hongjoong does.
“I sneak in some nerd time when she’s not looking.”
They fall into a familiar rhythm, talking about things they used to enjoy together. Books, games, and small, silly inside jokes.
For the first time in what feels like forever, they see a glimpse of the Hongjoong they used to know.
They had missed him a lot, but just as they’re laughing about an old shared memory, Mindy, one of your closest friends, spots them from across the library and strides over, her heels clicking against the floor.
“Well, isn’t this cozy? The nerd squad back in action.” She mocks.
“What do you want, Mindy?” Jongho is the first one to confront her.
“Oh, nothing. Just making mental notes for YN. You know how she gets when people step out of line, right Dann?”
“Why don’t you mind your own business for once?” She closes her book suddenly feeling angry at Mindy’s presence.
Mindy ignores her words, patting Hongjoong’s shoulder “Just giving you a friendly warning, Joong. YN’s not going to be thrilled when she hears about this little reunion. Better get your story straight before she does.”
Mindy saunters off, leaving behind an uneasy silence. Hongjoong looks conflicted, running a hand through his hair.
“She’s not here, Joong. You don’t have to let her control you every second of the day.” Yeosang says softly, feeling pity for his friend.
“It’s not that simple, you don’t get it.”
“Maybe we don’t. But you used to.”
They don't push further, but the words hang in the air. For a brief moment, Hongjoong feels a pang of guilt, a memory of simpler times when things weren’t so messy.
✮ ⋆
Meanwhile, back at the mansion, you are busy overseeing preparations for your father’s dinner when Mindy calls to report what she saw.
“Babygirl, you’re not going to like this, but guess who Hongjoong was spending his day with?”
You frown “What are you talking about?”
“Your little maid, Dann and the other freaks. They were all chummy in the library. It was kind of gross, honestly. Looked like they were best friends again.”
Your grip tightens around the phone. The thought of Hongjoong spending his time with his old friends you care little about, but with Dann… laughing with her, reminiscing. Sparks a flicker of jealousy and anger.
“Thanks for letting me know, babe.”
Cutting the call, you tell yourself it’s nothing. But the idea of Hongjoong slipping back to his old life, even for a moment, makes your blood boil.
The sound of the preparations for the business dinner echoes faintly through the mansion, but your focus is entirely on the phone.
Maybe you should remind Hongjoong which class he belongs to now.
Hongjoong’s phone buzzes just as he’s settling into class after his little encounter with his friends. His stomach drops when he sees your name pop up.
YN♡: I heard you were with Dann at school today. Care to explain why you thought that was a good idea?
Joong: We were just talking.
YN♡: Talking? Mindy says you were hanging out like old friends. Do you even realize how that makes me look?
Hongjoong hesitates, his mind racing. He knows your temper and doesn’t want to risk your wrath.
Joong: It’s not like that. I was just bored, and she’s… easy to be around when there’s nothing better to do.
The words feel wrong even as he types them, but he presses send anyway.
YN♡: Keep it in mind, Joongie. She’s not your friend anymore. You belong to me, remember that.
Joong: I know, YN. I won’t talk to her again. Promise.
✮ ⋆
It’s late in the evening. The business dinner is in full swing downstairs, but you have excused yourself to your room.
When you hear Dann come back from helping the staff, you call her up.
Dann knocks hesitantly on your door. She’s exhausted from helping clean up after the dinner preparations, but your icy summons gives her no choice.
“Close the door and sit.” With your head you point to the seat next to your large bed. Dann obeys, her hands clenching nervously in her lap “So, I heard you had a good time with Hongjoong today.”
Dann opens her mouth to start babbling “I… I didn’t mean anything by it. He just—”
“Oh, spare me. I already know everything.” You interrupt her.
You toss your phone onto the bed so Dann can see the screen. It’s open to Hongjoong’s messages.
Dann reads it, and her eyes moisten with sadness ‘easy to be around when there’s nothing better to do…’ Her heart sinks. The words sting more than she expected, and she feels a lump form in her throat.
“See? Even he knows where you stand. You’re nothing, Dann. A convenient distraction when he’s bored. That’s all you will ever be.” You lean back, watching the emotions flicker across Dann’s face; confusion, sadness, and humiliation.
“Why are you showing me this?” She whispers.
A mischievous smile lands on your lips “To remind you of your place. Don’t get too comfortable with Hongjoong. I don’t share what's mine.” Dann nods silently, unable to meet your gaze “Good. Now get out. I have to go back to an important dinner.”
You sit back down on your bed, satisfied but strangely restless while Dann stumbles out of the room, holding back tears.
As she retreats to the staff quarters her emotions swirl, the door clicks shut behind her, her legs give out, and she slides to the floor, the weight of your words pressing down on her chest.
She pulls her knees to her chest, resting her forehead against them as the messages replay in her mind.
‘Easy to be around when there’s nothing better to do.’
The words sting like a fresh wound, sharp and unrelenting. Hongjoong’s voice echoes in her head; not the Hongjoong she knew from before, the one who stayed up late helping her study for exams, who always made her laugh even when things were tough.
This Hongjoong felt like a stranger, someone who would say anything to stay in your good graces.
Her heart aches.
Why does she keep hoping he’ll be the person he used to be?
Dann clenches her fists, anger flickering alongside the sadness. Your smirk and your cruel words swirl in her thoughts, too. Dann knows your power, the way you can bend people like Hongjoong to your will.
But that doesn’t excuse him. He chose to say those things about her.
A single tear slips down her cheek, and she brushes it away furiously. She’s tired of feeling weak, tired of being the easy target.
"You’ll regret this, YN. One day, you’ll push too far, and everything you’ve built will crumble.” Dann exhales slowly, her tears finally dry “I can’t let her win. I won’t let her win."
✮ ⋆
Early the next morning, Dann wakes before dawn, the Clarke’s mansion still cloaked in silence.
She moves through her routine with mechanical precision, but her mind is elsewhere. Formulating, planning.
She thinks she owns me. That her words and her smirks can crush me into submission. And maybe, for a while, they did. But every cutting remark, every degrading task, only sharpens my focus.
'One day YN Clarke, you’ll realize I’m not as small as you think I am.'
She pulls on her simple clothes, smoothing the creases in the mirror. For a brief moment, her reflection stares back, eyes tired but filled with a quiet fire.
"I won't let her humiliate me anymore.”
Later that day at school in the cafeteria during lunch. You and your entourage sit at your usual table, the center of attention, laughing and chatting.
Dann approaches, carrying your latte on a tray. Her face is calm, but her heart races. She’s had enough of your endless demands and sharp tongue.
Dann’s fingers tighten around the tray. She can feel the weight of their stares, the way Mindy smirks at her like she’s a walking joke.
Her stomach churns, but she keeps her head high. She’s done everything you asked, swallowed every cruel word, and yet you still treat her like dirt.
‘One little accident wouldn’t hurt.’ She tells herself.
As she reaches the table, her hand shifts slightly, and the latte tilts; pouring straight into the table and your purse.
“What the hell?! Are you crazy?” You gasp with sharp voice
Dann feigns panic, though her lips twitch with suppressed satisfaction “I’m so sorry! It slipped!”
You stand abruptly, staring at your stained designer purse. Through gritted teeth “It slipped? You’ve got to be kidding me.” You scoff.
“Wow, Dann. Maybe YN’s been too nice to you.”
You narrow your eyes “You’re right, Mindy. I think Dann needs a reminder of her place.”
Dann’s satisfaction fades as Mindy steps behind her, pushing her forcefully down to her knees. The cafeteria goes silent, all eyes on the scene unfolding.
“What—what are you doing? I said I’m sorry!” Dann starts to panic, her confidence leaving immediately.
“Sorry isn’t enough.” You step closer, towering over Dann. Your voice drops, sharp and cruel “You think you’re clever, don’t you? Dropping my drink on purpose like a little brat. Let me make one thing clear. Your mother might work for my family, but that doesn’t mean you’re worth anything. You’re just a servant’s kid playing in a world you don’t belong to.”
Tears sting Dann’s eyes, but she bites her lip, refusing to cry. You smirk and Mindy crouches at Dann's height to whisper against her ear.
“Now, beg. Right here, in front of everyone. Beg for her forgiveness.”
“No... I won’t—” She shakes her head. You cut her off, stepping forward and pressing your Louboutin heel onto Dann’s hand “Stop! That hurts!” She yelps with tears rolling down her cheeks now.
You let out a slight laugh at her cries “That’s the point. Maybe next time, you’ll think twice before trying to humiliate me.”
The cafeteria is deathly quiet, the other students frozen, unsure whether to intervene.
Hongjoong stands a few feet away, frozen in shock. His stomach churns as you dig your heel into Dann’s hand, and your words like knives.
Hongjoong steps forward, raising his voice.
“YN, stop!”
You turn your head sharply, her eyes narrowing “Oh, What’s the matter, Joongie? Feeling guilty for siding with me?”
“This isn’t right. Let her go.”
You've never seen him so serious, for the first time his look made you feel intimidated. You blink several times before faking a smile.
“Fine. I’m in a good mood today.” You step back, your heel lifting off Dann’s hand.
She pulls her hand back, cradling it as she glances up at Hongjoong, his expression torn between anger and guilt. She wants to scream at him, to tell him it’s too late for him to play the good guy.
But instead, she swallows her pride, standing shakily and clutching her bruised hand. She doesn’t say another word. Instead, she stands up and walks out of the cafeteria, leaving the whispers and stares behind.
You watch her go, your lips curling into a satisfied smirk. Hongjoong’s angry glare doesn’t faze you; if anything, it’s amusing.
“You’re welcome to join her if you want. Maybe you two can cry about it together.”
He doesn’t respond, but the look he gives you says more than words ever could. He lets out a sigh and begins to walk in the direction Dann left.
You snort without being able to believe what you see “Fucking losers.”
Taking your phone, you open the chat you have with him.
YN♡: I hope you enjoy your return to the losers’ club, ungrateful pet.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
Taglist: @alliecoady98 @maidens-world @justconniez @luvvvash @silenttrxxs @latisthegenderfluidwannabealone @xh01bri @beabatiny @yothangie @posseup @0407files @cheolright @innocygnet @a-tiny-thing @sannieily @maplelilly05 @m0onchild-98
Join the Taglist: Here
☆○☆○☆
All rights reserved ♡bunny-hwa. Do not copy or translate my work.
🐟 k - kids by current joys
🐟 o - odd reasons by donovan melero
🐟 i - it’s you by ateez
I can’t recommend much music, but hey it’s something
MOOT / TAG GAME !
mission— spell your real name / name you use on tumblr with songs you like >< ready, set, go !
m — my love, mine all mine (mitski)
i — i love you, i’m sorry (gracie abrams)
c — coraline (lyn lapid)
k — killshot (magdalena bay)
i — i know you (faye webster)
e — either way (ive)
tagging— @puma-riki @flwrstqr @liwinly @woniefication @lilificationn @stvrriki @okwonyo + anyone else who wants to join !
I’m trying to guess if this is when be:first comes in or they come in for an entirely different reason.
| 𝒮𝑒𝓁𝒻𝒾𝓈𝒽 𝐿𝑜𝓋𝑒 | Chapter Three
Ot8!Mafia!Ateez x Female!Reader
Summary: After losing everything through gambling, your father's debts to the Ateez Mafia have resulted in you becoming their property. With no other family left, you are now at the mercy of these dangerous criminals due to your father's reckless actions.
Warnings: None (If I forgot any, don’t be afraid to tell me!)
Amazing Tags: @n0v4t33z @potatomountain for the inspiration
WC: 2k
Nets: @othersideoutlawsnetwork
Tags: @xomakara @jedi-dreea @beabatiny @ateezaddict24 @spenceatiny18 @18fernanda @prodsh00ky @evercodeee @yizhou-time @smally97 @eshia-16 @daniela-f-uwu u @peachyy-joonie @butterfliesinthenightsky @dassmyname @unlikelysublimekryptonite @dollinno @stay-tiny-things @joongscheese @misskarynie @monstacheol @yeosangcutie0615 @mariaa @pinuspot @amphiroxx @kitten4sannie (MOTIVATION THANK YOU) tags to be continued.
Series masterlist
NO LONGER DOING TAGS AFTER THIS CHAPTER, follow if you want to be notified.
Days had passed since Y/N was captured. Each day felt like a year being passed, it was agonizing. She wasn’t allowed to leave her room since she tried to escape her first day. She had visitors, mainly Hongjoong. Who she’s come to slowly trust but was still afraid of him.
Hongjoong was a nice man, genuinely. His exterior was soft and he behaved tough with his members but he took care of Y/N so well. He’d brush her hair, calm her down if she had a breakdown.
Just as he was doing now.
“Sh, sh, beautiful. Don’t waste those tears on that beautiful face of yours.” Hongjoong’s fingers were quick to wipe away her tears, “I know you don’t want to be here but it has to be this way. We don’t play about our money. Or being backstabbed.”
Y/N looked at him with tear stained eyes, “I know..I’m just, I’m just scared, Mr Hongjoong. Your people scare me.”
He let out a small chortle, “Oh, beautiful.” A small tut left his mouth, “My men are ruthless, I trained them to be that way but I did however, tell them to treat you gently. Cannot allow our only leverage to be damaged.” No one would believe the amount of times their leverage was killed and they never got their revenge. Or money.
That was Wooyoung's fault last time. He was of course punished accordingly in more ways than one (he liked his punishment so it was useless in the end.)
The tired girl nodded as she let Hongjoong pull her close, his embrace was warm and inviting.
“Come now, let’s get you some food.”
Y/N allowed him to gently walk her down the hallway and down a lavish staircase. It led into what she assumed was the grand entrance, but it was heavily guarded and maids were fluttering around, cleaning every corner.
“Kitchen is this way. However I’d advise you not to touch anything until I tell you so. Wooyoung is particular about his kitchen.” Hongjoong pressed his hand against her lower back as he ushered her into the said room.
“Hongjoong is that you?” A voice called out followed by clattering dishes.
“Yeah it’s me, come here, Woo. Want you to meet someone.” With those words, Wooyoung set down his dish and turned around.
A beautiful man was revealed. Was everyone in this house so strikingly handsome? Wooyoung grinned at the newcomer, thoughts already plaguing his mind, “Mm, is this the pretty girl I’ve heard so much about?”
Y/N looked away, all flustered, not used to such compliments or this many at all.
“Wooyoung. Don’t. But yes, this is the shitheads daughter. She’s our leverage till he comes out of hiding.” Hongjoong’s voice only had a moment of authority, shortly returning to a softer tone.
“Oh, okay, well. Can we keep her?” Wooyoung grinned and stepped closer, quickly pushing his leader's buttons.
Y/N stepped behind Hongjoong to avoid the gaze of the man. She wasn’t afraid but his grin was quite compelling, as if to lead her into seduction. It was definitely working. His long hair was stunning and his nose, so damn majestic.
Hongjoong could hear her every thought and he couldn’t help but shake his head, “I swear, between the two of you- you know what, never mind. Anyway, Wooyoung. I have a job for you.”
Wooyoung immediately turned serious, “Yes, sir?”
“I need you to find out more about her father. We need to pinpoint secret hiding locations. Places he’d think we’d never check. If you can, take Y/N to the city and have her show you places. But don’t let her out of your eyesight,” Hongjoong then stepped forward and grabbed Wooyoung’s shoulder, “and don’t do anything stupid. Don’t even try to flirt your way into her pants.”
“Fine, captain.”
“Good, now get ready to go. I have an arms dealer to meet with.” Hongjoong quickly left Y/N to Wooyoung’s devices.
Oh boy, this was gonna be a train wreck.
—
“Ah, ah, slow down little Princess. I was told to keep an eye on you.” Wooyoung scoffed as he tried to chase after the girl. She wasn’t trying to escape, no, she was trying to find her father so she didn’t have to go back.
As she swung the corner to a deli, eagerly looking inside for her father. He was nowhere to be seen. Of course he wasn’t.
He always did this. He ran from his problems and even now, he abandoned his own daughter. Y/N felt lost, betrayed, heartbroken even.
Wooyoung finally caught up to her, “What are you- oh. He’s not here is he?” Wooyoung could feel her disappointment and sheer sadness. He almost felt bad but then again, you don’t fuck with ateez, “Hey, listen. This just means you get to hang out some more with me.” He tried to lighten up her mood but it only made it worse and she broke down.
Fuck fuck fuck fuck.
Wooyoung panicked and lifted her off the ground, “Shit, I’m so sorry, please do not cry.”
Y/N shoved him away but that only angered him. He was trying to be nice and help her.
“Fine, be that way but you’re still going back to the manor.” Wooyoung let her arm go and called Hongjoong, “She’s done being outside for the day, we are coming back, sir.”
Y/N protested as she was flipped onto the man’s shoulder, “Let me go!” Bystanders watched but did nothing.
They knew better not to interfere.
Y/N sobbed in defeat as she pounded onto his back, trying her damndest to get away.
Wooyoung did feel only just tad bad about treating her this way but they need her to find her father. Sure, they could just let it go but then it would set an example for others that they could get away with betraying the group. Wooyoung knew Hongjoong’s ego wouldn’t let that fly. Ever.
“Y/N, please stop flailing around. I don’t want to hurt you.” His voice was soft spoken, showing he meant his words. Wooyoung truly didn’t want to hurt her.
Wait.
He had an idea. Maybe ice cream would cheer her up.
What an idiot, he really thought that was gonna solve these issues? He truly forgot what humans were like.
“If you stop smacking my back, I will take you somewhere for a bit and we won’t have to go back to the manor right away.” That seemed to calm Y/N down, only for her to question him.
“What..do you mean?” Her arms came at a rest on his back as she turned to look at the back of his head. Only for him to set the girl down.
“Ateez owns a few regular businesses, so I’m gonna take you to one, maybe get you some ice cream. How does that sound?” Wooyoung tried to console her, reaching to wipe away stray tears. His polished nails caught her eye. Another beautiful trait of his.
“Okay.. that actually sounds good.” Y/N did truly miss her everyday things, maybe ice cream could numb the pain for a moment.
She hoped so.
—
The parlor was near empty, not many patrons but the ones that were there kind of spooked her.
The parlor was bright in color on the inside, just a few tables and one employee around. That person even scared her. They were covered in tattoos from the neck down as far as she could tell. Why would anyone get ice cream here? Why would a mafia own an ice cream shop to begin with?
“Hello, Mr. Jung, it’s good to see you.” The employee behind the counter smiled, immediately greeting Wooyoung, “Are you getting your usual today?” They were quick to start scooping a green ice cream, presumably either mint or pistachio.
“No, actually I’m here to get something for Miss Y/N, think you can whip up some fresh ice cream?” Wooyoung walked the girl to the counter, her head hung low however.
“Yes sir, I can do that. What would you like, Miss?”
Y/N looked up, all shy like, “Um, can I have neopolitan?” She wasn’t sure what flavor she wanted so she went for something basic.
Once the ice cream was handed to her, Wooyoung brought her over to a corner to relax, “So, Y/N, why don’t you tell me about yourself. I can answer some questions if you’d like as well.”
Y/N picked at the melting cream, “Uh, yeah sure. What did you want to know?”
“Well, can you tell me how your father got you into this mess? Why he ran from us?” Wooyoung became serious, yet was still calm.
“I mean, my mom died a few years ago and we received her life insurance money after that. It was about two hundred thousand dollars I think.” Y/N picked at her ice cream some more before pushing it away, “I never got to see it. My dad I guess, in his grief began gambling. A weird way to cope in my opinion. But, he eventually gambled away their shared savings and her life insurance money. He’s evaded loan sharks and debt collectors for a while. I don’t know how he still has the house, it’s in poor condition anyway.”
Wooyoung continued to listen intently, taking notes.
“He eventually started stealing my savings and such, my rent money also. I have my own place and my own car but he’s still taken things from me.” She hated her father and every ounce of his being, yet she still cared, “That day you guys kidnapped me, was the day he took the last of my money I had. Then he disappeared I guess.”
“I see..” Wooyoung hummed in response, “Well, I’m sorry to say, you’re stuck with us until we find him. But don’t worry, you won’t be stuck in a cell. Well, unless you piss off Hongjoong.” Even though he tried to make her laugh, it didn’t work anyway.
“So what do you want to know about me?”
Y/N shrugged, “I’m not sure I really want to know anything. I don’t want to know things I shouldn’t and potentially be killed.”
Wooyoung laughed before he spoke, “Y/N. I’m not going to kill you. But if you have no questions then. That’s fine. Are you done with your ice cream?”
“Yeah, I am.” Even though she had barely touched it, it had already melted.
“I suppose we can head back then.”
—
“Head up to your room. I need to speak with Hongjoong.” Wooyoung ushered her away and made his way to his leader's office.
Three knocks to the wood and he walked in, “Hello captain. I’m sorry to say that we couldn’t find him in the places that we looked. However I got some more information on him.”
“Go on, Wooyoung. I don’t have all day.”
“Sorry sir. I have learned that Y/N’s father has evaded many loan sharks. Just like he has evaded us. It has me wondering if he has someone helping him. And we may need to look into it honestly.” Wooyoung didn’t like the look that appeared on Hongjoong’s face. It reminded him of something that happened in the past. Something he wasn’t ready to remember.
“He what?” A fire burned in his eyes that went deep. His fists clenched as he went to pinch the bridge of his nose, “Fine. He wants to be a coward and run from us. Little does he know he just fucked with a God.”
Wooyoung began to grin as he realized his old captain was coming back, “What are you planning for us, sir?”
“You know damn well what I have planned. Grab Yunho, I’m gonna need him to prepare a few things, notify Seonghwa as well. I’m gonna need him too. It’s time this fucker pays for abandoning a beauty and fucking with me.”
Y/N’s father had no idea just who he screwed over.
ATEEZ WRITERS IF YOU CAN HEAR ME, PLEASE WRITE A SERIES OR A ONE-SHOT ABOUT ANY OF THESE PHOTOS AND IF YOU DO PLEASE TAG ME!
some of these deleted scenes were funny and creative
✗ blood in the clouds ✗ | DELETED SCENES | original fic
HOUR 5.5 OF 7 - YOUTUBE VLOGGING
your fingers crumpled the edges of the ‘script’ that hongjoong gave you, the gun ahead of you acting as an unwelcome reminder that you could die at any moment.
you squinted at the paper, your voice cracking slightly as you read aloud.
“‘dad, you are to provide the $150 million you owe to K.H.J., through your next meeting with mr kim. refusal means that your daughter will be cut up and scattered across the s-’”
your eyes widened. “are you serious?”
he lowered the camera he had been aiming at you. “..you want to find out, pretty?”
HOUR 15 OF 7 - DRESS TO IMPRESS
“are you always this picky?” wooyoung sneered as he leaned against the wall.
you glared at him. “yes.”
the room you were brought to was slightly cleaner and brighter than what you’ve seen so far. on the bed, there were dresses stacked on top of each other, some ridiculous and some stunning.
“why do you even have these dresses?” you asked as you held one up.
“we don’t,” wooyoung rolled his eyes. “boss made me steal them for you.”
you dropped the dress and shot him a look. “are you serious?”
“why would we have these lying around?” he scoffed.
you sighed, picking up a dress. something that was simple and elegant. “i’ll wear this one.”
when you realised that wooyoung ignored you, you spoke up again. “get out.”
he rolled his eyes and left the room with a dramatic huff. once he left, you put the dress on. it wasn’t the most flattering dress you’ve worn, but at least it wasn’t that horrid uniform you’ve been wearing.
when you were done, you opened the door to see wooyoung waiting - holding a bag of what looked like makeup supplies. you sat on the bed as he loomed through them, picking out something.
“what the hell is this?” he muttered as he held what looked like a pencil.
you blinked. “…it’s eyeliner.”
“shit,” he grumbled as his hand wobbled and drew a squiggly line across your cheek.
you flinched. “what the hell are you doing? i can do it myself-“
“-i’ve done this before!” wooyoung argued as he continued to draw crooked lines near your eyes.
“is she done yet?” a new voice cut in. you turned to see a man at the doorway. “why is she not ready?”
“seonghwa, take over,” wooyoung snapped as he shoved the pencil into seonghwa’s hands. “i’m getting pissed off.”
seonghwa sighed and stepped forward to where you were sitting. his movements were calm and precise as he wiped off the makeup and reapplied it.
once he was done, he stepped back with a nod. “you look good.”
you blinked, unsure of whether to thank him. “uh- do you guys have mirrors here?”
both men exchanged a glance before seonghwa shrugged. “no, but just take our word for it.”
before anyone else could say anything, the door swung open.
it was hongjoong.
his eyes swept over you slowly and his lips curled into a smirk that made your stomach twist. “let’s go pig hunting.”
HOUR 16 OF 7 - FAST AND FURIOUS
the car swerved violently, tires screeching as hongjoong gripped the steering wheel. the tunnel around you was noisy with gunshots and bullets bouncing off the walls.
you were in the passenger seat, wearing a black dress as you held the car door for dear life.
“i thought we were going to an event!” you yelled over the gunshots as the car jerked to the side.
“i thought so too,” hongjoong sighed as he tilted the rearview mirror.
before you could say anything, he reached into his blazer and pulled out a sleek black pistol.
“what are you doing?” your jaw dropped.
he rolled his eyes. “don’t act surprised.”
“what is wrong with you?!” you spat out, watching him check the bullets. “i’m not letting you kill anyone-“
“god- you’re such a brat,” he clicked his tongue, cocking the gun. “take the wheel.”
you’re eyes widened. “what?!”
“take. the. wheel,” he ordered, already unbuckling his seatbelt.
hongjoong rolled down the window, letting go of the steering wheel entirely and ramming the gas pedal as he stood up. panicked, you lunged for the wheel, struggling to grip it as the car swerved dangerously to the side. “are you crazy?!”
“drive!” he yelled, raising the gun and firing several shots at the black SUV trailing close behind.
“shit,” he muttered, ducking back inside to reload his gun. he leaned back out again. “turn right-”
you quickly listened to him as he aimed carefully, firing several more rounds. a loud bang echoed as the SUV’s tires blew out, the vehicle swerving violently before crashing into the tunnel’s wall.
hongjoong slid back into the seat, taking the steering wheel from you as he rolled up the window. “you’re welcome.”
MONTH 3 - LET’S GO GAMBLING! (initial draft)
“get ready!” san yelled, his voice cutting through the noise.
weapons were drawn and the room erupted into chaos.
you rushed forward, gripping the knife wooyoung lent you earlier. your pulse pounded in your ears as you scanned the room, overwhelmed.
“stay back, brat. you’re not ready.”
hongjoong’s voice was sharp, his hand grabbing your arm as he pushed you to the side. his eyes bore into yours, leaving no room for argument.
you hesitated. the rest of the group either fought piglets near slot machines, roulette tables or bars, their moves deadly.
you tried to follow hongjoong’s order, really. but when you saw one of the piglets break away from the main fight and headed for yeosang, who was hiding under a pool table, you couldn’t resist.
your grip on the knife tightened as you ran forward.
the piglet turned to you, snarling. “you think you can take me, girl?”
without thinking, you lunged.
the clash of steel pierced your ears as your knives collided. you were definitely not a good fighter - your strikes were clumsy and your footing was off, but you were high on adrenaline.
his blows were relentless, forcing you to backpedal. his knife caught yours at an odd angle, causing the blade to deform.
panic surged through you as he moved to strike again, but before he could reach you-
-the piglet dropped to the ground.
you looked behind to see hongjoong standing not too far away, his pistol still aimed at where the piglet was.
his eyes inspected you, narrowing as he assessed your state. blood dripped from a small gash on your lip, and your sleeves were torn - revealing small cuts on your arms.
he sighed. “go hide with yeosang,” he ordered before quickly turning to rejoin the fight.
you staggered toward the pool tables, slumping next to yeosang.
“you’re not fighting?” you panted, wiping your lip.
he shook his head. “too tired.”
you nodded, leaning back against the table’s leg as you impatiently waited for the fight to end, which didn’t take too long.
the gunfire finally ceased, the room falling quiet.
one by one, the group gathered in the corner, collapsing onto the floor in a circle as you and yeosang joined them. bottles of water were passed around as everyone caught their breaths.
for a while, no one spoke, the only sounds being an occasional groan.
“hey,” wooyoung hiccuped, breaking the silence as he turned to you. “give me my knife back.”
you looked at him awkwardly before handing him his completely deformed blade.
“what the hell!” he exclaimed. “that was one of my favourites!”
you shrugged. “you shouldn’t have given it to me then.”
“how was i supposed to know you’d get into an actual fight?” wooyoung complained. “now i don’t feel bad for your busted lip anymore.”
“you’re such a dick,” you rolled your eyes.
wooyoung grinned, leaning closer - his voice mocking sweet. “aw, don’t be mad, sweetheart. i’ll get you a better knife- one that won’t break in your delicate fucking hands.”
“ohmygod- shut up,” you groaned, shoving him lightly as the others chuckled.
hongjoong leaned against the wall, his arm crossed over his chest. his eyes shifted from wooyoung to you.
he told himself it was relief - that he was glad you were bonding with the crew, that you were starting to feel like one of them. that’s what he wanted, wasn’t it? to see you mesh with his team, to become a member?
but why did his stomach twist every time one of them smiled at you?
he didn’t realise how hard his fingers were digging into his arms until his knuckles turned sore and white.
“enough,” hongjoong cut through the conversation.
the laughter died down instantly as everyone turned to him.
“we don’t have time for this,” he continued, standing up. “grab any cash you find and meet by the van. now.”
the group complained but obeyed, sluggishly rising to their feet.
you went to pick up a discarded water bottle, hongjoong’s eyes lingering a fraction too long on the bloodied edge of your sleeve and the small cut on your lip.
he should be angry at you for disobeying him, for throwing yourself into danger when you weren’t ready. but all he could feel was the sickening churn of jealousy at how easily you laughed with the others.
as you passed by him on your way out, he caught your wrist briefly.
“next time, stay where i tell you,” he said. “now you’re hurt.”
you nodded, hesitating before you spoke, your voice soft. “...i’m sorry.”
hongjoong blinked, taken aback.
“i-” your brows furrowed. “i didn’t mean to get hurt. i just wanted to help..”
fuck- why, no- how were you so genuine?
he expected you to talk back or shrug him off, not this - sincerity shining in your eyes. now, he just looked like a shithead, guilt clawing at his chest.
hongjoong exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair. “whatever- it wasn’t your fault-”
you tilted your head, confused. “but you-”
“just find the cash we need,” he cut you off, walking away.
hongjoong felt his stomach twist once more. he told himself it was just concern or worry. but deep down, he knew it was something more complicated.
and he hated it.
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Dude…let’s kill Mike
I’M SICK OF THIS MAN I SWEAR!
CHAPTER STARTED OFF SO CUTE WITH READER AND HONGJOONG GOING ON A DATE AND NOW I CAN FEEL IT SENSE THAT JOONG GONNA SHOW UP AT A DIFFERENT VENUE AND READER GONNA BE UPSET AHHHHHHHH
We need to kill Mike we gotta stop him i’m so serious i need reader or someone to hit him if future chapters preferably i want reader to hit him
moving on, I’m excited for the next part even thought it’s literally titled "the first breakdown" and i just know i’m gonna feel sad for reader more than I already do especially after this chapter
keep up the amazing work! <3
Popular, Boy
☆06: The first move.
Pairing: Nerd!Hongjoong x Popular!Reader
Genre: +18, slow burn, angst, smut, drama, dark academic, love triangle.
wc: 10,8k
Summary: You and Hongjoong grow closer, but in your world, trust is a dangerous thing. Mike's cruelty lingers, and in the shadows, a plan unfolds... One designed to break you.
Break your heart, and make you question everything... especially Hongjoong.
Warnings: Verbal abuse, past trauma (?), power dynamics, fluff, suggestive.
Series masterlist
☆05 ☆07: The first breakdown.
The low rumble of the engine fills the quiet evening air as you glance out the window. The car is nothing like the sleek, expensive vehicles sitting in your family’s garage. It’s modest, a little old, and the faint smell of worn leather lingers in the air.
“You borrowed this from your dad?” You ask, raising an eyebrow as you turn to Hongjoong.
He shrugs, his hands gripping the steering wheel with a mix of focus and nervousness. “Yeah. Figured it’s better than taking the bus.”
The bus? Hell no, you have never been in one and you hope it never happens.
You glance at him, a small, amused smirk playing on your lips. The whole thing is… endearing in a way you don’t expect.
“So, are you going to tell me where we’re going?” You cross your legs and adjust your pink leather jacket.
“Nope.” His lips quirk into a smile, but he keeps his eyes on the road “Just sit back and enjoy the ride, pretty.”
You roll your eyes but don’t press further. There’s something about his excitement that keeps your curiosity piqued.
When the car finally comes to a stop, you step out and immediately catch the sound of distant laughter and the faint scent of fried food in the air. Turning toward the neon-lit entrance ahead, your brows knit together.
“An amusement park?” Your voice is tinged with surprise.
Hongjoong steps around to your side, his hands in his pockets and a slightly nervous look on his face.
“You said you’d never been to one, so…” He gestures toward the brightly lit rides.
You glance down at your outfit—high heel boots, a sleek skirt, and your leather jacket—then back at him.
“And you didn’t think to mention that I might want to dress for this?”
He grins, his nervousness fading into a playful confidence “You’ll be fine. You look beautiful and you could rock a runway in a park if you wanted to.”
You shake your head, unable to suppress a smile “Fine. Lead the way.”
The ticket booth is up ahead, and you instinctively reach for your purse, already accustomed to paying for yourself—and for others. But before you can even unzip it, Hongjoong steps forward, pulling out his wallet.
“Two adults, please.” He says, handing over the cash.
You blink, momentarily stunned. People don’t usually pay for you. They just assume you’ll foot the bill, given your family’s wealth. But here Hongjoong is, without hesitation, handling everything.
“Thanks.” You say, your voice softer than usual.
He shoots you a small, reassuring smile “It’s a date, isn’t it?”
The park is alive with energy—bright lights, music, and the unmistakable hum of excitement in the air. You’re not sure what to expect, but as the night unfolds, you find yourself swept up in the moment.
Hongjoong pulls you from ride to ride, his enthusiasm contagious. You scream on the roller coasters, laugh uncontrollably on the spinning teacups, and you surprise yourself by enjoying the bumper cars, laughing uncontrollably as Hongjoong tried—and failed—to outmaneuver you.
Hongjoong made a great effort to win a small stuffed bunny at one of the carnival games, he handed it to you with a triumphant grin.
“For you,” He says, holding it out.
“Seriously?” You ask, but there is no hiding the smile that tug at your lips “It’s so tacky.”
“Tacky but adorable, just like you.” He counters with a pretty smile.
And you find yourself clutching the fluffy bunny tightly as you continue through the park.
At the snack stand, you try to insist on paying, but Hongjoong beats you to it again, handing over the cash before you can protest.
“You’re really committed to this, huh?” You tease.
He shrugs, offering you a bag of popcorn “I like treating you. You’re worth it.”
The words catch you off guard, leaving a strange warmth in their wake. You look at him, the boyish grin on his face, and wonder how he can be so… genuine.
As the day turns into evening, the park’s lights flicker on, casting a magical glow over everything. You stand in line for the carousel, the soft music adding a nostalgic charm.
You climb into one of the ornate horses, your laughter echoing as Hongjoong chooses the one beside you.
“You’re having fun, admit it.” He says, his voice filled with mock accusations.
You tilt your head, a playful smirk on your lips “Maybe a little.”
The carousel begins to move, and for a moment, you let yourself get lost in the moment. The weight of your pride, your fears, and the persona you had carefully crafted seems to fade.
It’s just you and Hongjoong, spinning in a world that feels oddly perfect.
As the evening wears on, you realize something else—you’re having fun. Real, uncomplicated fun. It’s a feeling you’re not used to, and it’s equal parts exhilarating and terrifying.
When you finally board the Ferris wheel, the city sprawls out below you, glittering in the night. The car sways gently, and Hongjoong’s arm rests casually on the back of your seat.
“You’ve been quiet,” He glances at you “What’s on your mind?”
You hesitate, your fingers toying with the hem of your jacket “I guess… I’m not used to this.”
“To what?”
“To someone doing all of this just for me.” You admit, your voice barely above a whisper.
He looks at you, his expression softening “You deserve it, pretty. All of it.”
You bite the inside of your cheek, unsure of how to respond. The gnawing doubt in the back of your mind refuses to let go.
What if this isn’t real? What if he’s just playing along, trying to climb some invisible ladder to the top?
The Ferris wheel car rocks gently as it halts at the top, giving you a perfect view of the glowing amusement park below. The world feels smaller up here, the laughter and music from the park blending into a soft hum. But your focus isn’t on the view.
Hongjoong’s hand brushes against yours, hesitant yet deliberate “YN,” He begins, his voice soft but firm, breaking the fragile silence. You turn to him, caught off guard by the serious tone in his voice “There’s something I’ve been meaning to tell you,” His eyes locking onto yours “Something I should’ve said a long time ago.”
You blink, unsure of where he’s going with this “What is it?”
He exhales deeply, running a hand through his hair “Do you remember the first time we met? On the first day of college?”
You frown slightly, trying to recall “I remember you asking me for a pen and I told you not to speak to me again and get lost.” Both of you chuckle at the memory “You were… different back then.”
He smiles faintly, though there’s a sadness to it “I was, and I remember everything about that moment. How you walked into the lecture hall like you owned the place, and every single person in the room noticed you. Including me.”
You tilt your head, curious now.
“I knew I didn’t stand a chance,” He continues, his voice quiet “You were… YN. Popular, beautiful, confident—everything I wasn’t. But I couldn’t stop thinking about you. And I guess, in some way, I thought if I could change myself, maybe you’d notice me.”
“Change yourself?” You echo, your brow furrowing.
He nods, a faint, self-deprecating chuckle escaping his lips “The clothes, the hair, trying to fit in with your world—it was all for you. Even when I begged you to make me popular, it wasn’t really about the popularity. I just wanted to be enough for you. To have a chance with you.”
His words hit you like a wave, and for a moment, you don’t know what to say.
“You hated me back then.” You murmur, though your voice lacks conviction.
“I didn’t hate you,” He says firmly, his gaze unwavering “I hated how you treated me sometimes, yeah. But I didn’t hate you. How could I, when I was in love with you?”
Your breath catches “In love with me?”
“Since that first day,” Hongjoong admits, his voice barely above a whisper “It didn’t matter that you barely knew I existed. It didn’t matter how hard it was to watch you humiliate me or use me as a punchline. I just wanted you to notice me, YN. Even if it hurts.”
A lump forms in your throat as you stare at him. His words are raw, honest, and so unlike the Kim Hongjoong you’ve grown accustomed to.
“Hongjoong…” You trail off, your voice faltering.
He shakes his head, his hand tightening around yours.
“I know how it sounds. And I get it if you don’t feel the same way. But I had to tell you. Because all of this? It’s real for me. You’re real for me.”
You feel your chest tighten, the weight of his confession pressing down on you. Part of you wants to believe him, to let yourself fall into the warmth of his feelings, but the doubts linger.
“What if…” You begin, your voice trembling “What if you’re wrong? What if this isn’t real?”
“I’m not wrong,” He says with quiet determination “And I’ll prove it to you, pretty. Every day, if I have to.”
His words stir something deep inside you, but the echoes of your brother’s voice resurface: ‘Once the thrill of the game wears off, they’ll both be exactly where they belong—crumbling.’
You bite your lip, trying to suppress the turmoil within you.
“I don’t know if I can trust this.”
Hongjoong leans closer, his eyes searching yours “You don’t have to trust it all at once. Just… let me show you. Let me prove to you that I’m not going anywhere.”
For a moment, you hesitate, your heart warring with your mind. But then, as if on instinct, you lean in and press your lips to his.
The kiss is soft at first, tentative, but then it deepens, his hands cupping your face as yours find their way to his shoulders. For a moment, the world around you disappears, leaving only the warmth of his touch and the steady rhythm of his heartbeat.
When you finally pull away, breathless and flushed, Hongjoong’s eyes are wide, his expression filled with awe.
“Does this mean that we are…?”
“It means,” You interrupt, your voice trembling but steady “That I’m giving you a chance to prove it, then we discuss what will happen. Don’t make me regret it.”
He smiles, the kind of smile that reaches his eyes and lights up his entire face.
“I won’t. I promise.”
The Ferris wheel begins to move again, but this time, as it descends, you feel lighter, the weight of your doubts momentarily lifted.
Maybe this is reckless. Maybe it’ll all fall apart. But as Hongjoong’s hand finds yours again, lacing your fingers together, you decide—for now—you’ll take the risk.
✮ ⋆
The hum of the car engine fades as Hongjoong pulls up to your family’s grand estate, its sprawling driveway illuminated by soft outdoor lighting. He steps out of the old car and quickly moves to your side, opening the door for you with a charming smile.
“Such a gentleman.”
You tease, stepping out in your heels, clutching the medium-sized plush bunny he’d won for you at the amusement park. Its soft, floppy ears brush against your arm, and for reasons you can’t quite explain, holding it makes you feel… warm.
“Well, tonight was special. You deserve the whole VIP treatment.” He quips, offering his hand to steady you.
As the two of you walk toward the front steps, the soft chill of the evening air wraps around you, but you barely notice it. The warmth of the evening lingers, and you’re not quite ready to let it go.
“I had fun tonight.” You admit, your voice softer than usual.
“Yeah?” He asks, his eyes lighting up “You’re not just saying that because I let you beat me at the ring toss, are you?”
You roll your eyes, a laugh escaping as you hug the bunny tighter.
“You didn’t let me win. I’m just naturally talented.”
Hongjoong grins, leaning slightly closer “Naturally talented, huh? I’ll remember that next time I’m getting crushed at bumper cars.”
A comfortable silence falls between you for a moment as you both reach the front door.
“Thank you, Hongjoong,” You say, turning to face him fully “For everything. I mean it.”
He scratches the back of his neck, his cheeks tinged pink under the porch light. “You don’t have to thank me. I just… I wanted you to have a good time.”
“Well, mission accomplished.” You reply, your smile lingering.
The moment feels charged, like the quiet pause before a firework explodes. Slowly, he steps closer, his gaze flickering from your eyes to your lips.
“Goodnight, pretty.” He says softly, his voice barely above a whisper.
“Goodnight, Joongie.” You reply, leaning in.
Your lips meet in a tender kiss, warm and unhurried, the kind that feels like a promise. The bunny slips slightly in your grip, but Hongjoong steadies it with a hand, his touch lingering just long enough to make your heart flutter.
When you pull back, there’s a flicker of hesitation in his eyes, as though he’s reluctant to leave.
“I’ll see you tomorrow at school.” He murmurs, his hand brushing yours one last time before he turns and walks back to his car.
You watch him drive away, the sound of the engine fading into the night. For a brief moment, you stand there, feeling lighter than you have in weeks.
The plush bunny in your arms feels oddly comforting, and you catch yourself smiling at the memory of him insisting on winning it for you. He’d been so focused, so determined, as though nothing else in the world mattered.
But the warmth is short-lived.
As you step inside, the soft click of your heels echoes in the dimly lit foyer. The house feels quiet, almost too quiet, and a sense of unease prickles at the back of your neck.
“Late night, huh?” You freeze. Mike’s voice cuts through the silence like a knife, cold and taunting.
He steps out from the shadows of the living room, his arms crossed, and an infuriatingly smug look on his face.
“So, did Prince Nerd sweep you off your feet?”
You roll your eyes, trying to keep your composure “Go to bed, Mike. You’re not my keeper.”
He chuckles, the sound low and mocking “Oh, but it’s so entertaining watching you play house with your little project.”
You glare at him, your defenses rising “He’s not a project. And you don’t know anything about him.”
Mike raises an eyebrow, stepping closer “Don’t I? Let’s see… Hongjoong, the reformed nerd. The guy who suddenly started hanging out with the queen bee… How curious, don't you think?” Your jaw tightens, but he doesn’t stop “You think that’s love, YN? Or is it desperation?"
"Face it, dear sister. He’s obsessed with you because you’re a trophy. The queen bee who gave him the time of day. Do you really think that’ll last? Once he realizes he can’t keep up, he’ll snap back to reality. And where does that leave you?”
“Stop it,” You snap, your voice shaking slightly.
But Mike only smirks “You’re scared, aren’t you? Scared that I’m right. Scared that once the shine wears off, he’ll remember who he really is—and leave you behind.”
His words sink in like claws, dragging at the fragile hope you’d started to build tonight. You open your mouth to fire back, but the lump in your throat stops you.
Mike leans in, his voice dropping to a whisper “Enjoy the fairytale while it lasts, little sister. Because when it ends, it’s going to hurt.”
Without another word, he turns and disappears into the shadows, leaving you standing there, clutching the bunny tightly to your chest.
The warmth of Hongjoong’s kiss feels like a distant memory now, overshadowed by the weight of Mike’s cruel words.
As you climb the stairs to your room, the doubts creep in, unbidden and relentless.
You set the bunny down on your bed, its soft, innocent face staring back at you as though mocking your turmoil.
Tonight was perfect. But now, you’re not so sure how long perfect can last.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
March, 2008⋆｡
You were five years old, standing in the middle of the schoolyard with a bouquet of cheap plastic flowers and a small silver medal hanging around your neck. The other kids were swarmed by their parents, showered in hugs, kisses, and congratulations.
You stood apart, your smile faltering as you scanned the crowd again and again, hoping to find a familiar face.
But your parents never came.
By the time the babysitter arrived to take you home, the festival had already ended, and the school grounds were nearly empty. You sat quietly in the car, clutching the medal tightly in your small hands, determined not to cry.
You had worked so hard for the performance, staying late after school for weeks, practicing the routine over and over. You had wanted your parents to see you, to be proud of you.
When you finally got home, the house was dark. Your parents weren’t there, of course. They had told you that morning that they might be "a little late," but you hadn’t realized it meant missing the entire festival.
The babysitter gave you a sympathetic smile before heading upstairs. You sat at the dining table, the silver medal still around your neck, as you stared at the empty chairs where your parents should’ve been.
It wasn’t until late at night that you heard the front door open. You rushed downstairs, your little heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and apprehension.
Your parents entered, followed by your eight-year-old brother, Mike, who was holding a shiny trophy in his hands.
“Look at this, first place!” Mike boasted, raising the trophy high.
“We’re so proud of you, Mike.” Your mother said, ruffling his hair.
“Mommy, Daddy,” You began hesitantly, clutching her medal “You missed my dance festival.”
Your parents glanced at you briefly, their smiles faltering for just a moment.
“Oh, honey, we’re so sorry,” Your father said, though his tone was distracted “But Mike had his soccer game today, and his team won! It was such an important match.”
“I won too. I won second place, look.” You said quietly, holding up your medal with a smile.
You looked between your parents, hoping for a flicker of pride, of recognition.
Mike snorted “Second place? That’s just the first loser, YN.”
Your cheeks burned, and your grip on the medal tightened “It’s still good,” You muttered.
The oldest exchanged a quick look before your mother knelt down in front of you.
“That's incredible, sweetie. We’re sorry we couldn’t make it. We’ll make it up to you, okay? Tomorrow, we’ll take you to the store, and you can pick out whatever you want. How does that sound?”
You nodded slowly, but the hollow ache in your chest didn’t go away. You watched as your parents returned their attention to Mike, showering him with questions about his game, reliving every goal and every cheer.
You stood there, forgotten, the silver medal in your hand feeling heavier by the second.
That night, as you lay in bed, you stared at the medal on the nightstand. You thought about the promise your parents had made, the reward they’d offered to soothe their absence.
A reward.
That’s what you were worth to them. Not their time, not their presence, but a material gift to ease their guilt.
And so, even at five years old, you learned a valuable lesson: if you couldn’t earn love, you could at least be compensated for its absence.
✮ ⋆
October, 2017⋆｡
The house was alive with music, laughter, and the clinking of glasses. Streamers in shades of purple and gold adorned the grand living room, and a three-tier cake stood proudly at the center of the dining table, surrounded by an array of delicately prepared treats.
It was your fifteenth birthday—or at least, it was supposed to be.
You stood near the large bay window, your dress a vision of elegance and sparkle, the kind your mother had insisted on getting for the occasion. But your smile was thin and forced, your eyes constantly darting to the growing crowd around Mike.
Your older brother was the center of attention, as he always seemed to be.
Earlier that evening, just as the guests began to arrive, Mike had announced to their parents that he had been accepted into the most prestigious university in the country. The news was met with exuberant cheers and immediate celebration.
Your parents’ pride radiated like the sun, casting a shadow over everything else—including you.
At first, you tried to hold onto the joy of your own milestone, but as the night wore on, the decorations, the cake, and even the guests seemed to shift their focus.
“To Mike!” Your father’s voice boomed as he raised a glass of champagne “For making us the proudest parents alive!”
A collective cheer followed, and you felt your chest tighten. You glanced at your mother, hoping for a gesture of acknowledgment, but she was too busy beaming at Mike.
The words you had rehearsed to thank everyone for coming stayed locked in your throat.
“It’s okay…” You told yourself, gripping the edges of the dress to steady your trembling hands.
As the hours passed, your birthday transformed into an impromptu celebration for Mike’s achievement. Relatives and family friends crowded around him, offering their congratulations. The gifts that were meant for you sat unopened on a side table, forgotten.
Later that night, after most of the guests had left, you found yourself alone in the kitchen, picking at the remains of the untouched birthday cake. Your parents walked in, their faces still glowing with pride.
“Darling,” Your father said, noticing your somber expression “Why are you here by yourself? It was such a wonderful evening.”
You looked up at him, eyes glistening with unshed tears.
“It was supposed to be my birthday party.”
Your mother’s smile faltered “Oh, sweetheart, we’re so sorry,” She said, reaching out to place a hand on your shoulder “But you understand how important this is for Mike, don’t you? This is such a big accomplishment for him.”
“I guess.” You mumbled, though the ache in your chest remained.
Mike walked in then, a triumphant grin on his face “What’s this? Pouting because you had to share the spotlight?” He teased, ruffling your hair in that condescending way that always made your blood boil.
“It’s not a big deal. Come on, you should be happy for me. Not everyone gets into a school like this.”
You clenched your fists, fighting the urge to lash out “Happy birthday to me.” You muttered under her breath.
Her parents, sensing the tension, exchanged a quick glance.
“YN, we’ll make it up to you. Tomorrow, we’ll take you shopping and get you whatever you want. Anything at all.”
You forced a smile, nodding mechanically.
“Sure. Thanks.”
But as you lay in bed that night, staring at the ceiling, you couldn’t shake the feeling of being invisible. No matter how hard you tried, it seemed you would always come second to Mike—the golden child, the perfect son, the one who could do no wrong.
And so, the seeds of bitterness were planted, watered by years of neglect and overshadowed by a brother who always shone brighter.
You promised yourself then that you would never let anyone make you feel small again.
If you had to be cruel to survive, so be it. Because in a world where everyone else seemed to have the upper hand, kindness felt like a luxury you couldn’t afford.
✮ ⋆
July, 2020⋆｡
The dining room was filled with laughter and the soft clinking of glasses. The long table was adorned with an elegant spread, shimmering under the chandelier’s warm glow.
It was Mike’s farewell dinner, a grand event in honor of his departure to Germany to pursue his master’s degree in business management.
The room buzzed with pride and excitement for the family’s golden boy.
You, now seventeen, sat near the end of the table, quiet and composed, your gaze fixed on your untouched plate. You had learned to blend into the background during these family gatherings, where you knew your presence would be an afterthought.
“To Mike!” Uncle William raised his glass for the third toast of the evening “A true inspiration to us all. You’ve always been the pride of the family!”
“Here’s to making us proud in Germany,” Chimed in Aunt Silvia, dabbing her eyes with a napkin “Our boy is destined for greatness.”
Everyone joined in the toast, glasses clinking, voices filled with admiration. Your grip tightened around the fork, your knuckles white as you forced a polite smile.
“And what about you, YN?” Cousin Andrew’s voice cut through the noise like a blade, drawing attention to her “Any plans to follow in your brother’s footsteps? Or is it still fashion magazines and parties for you?”
The table erupted in laughter, the kind that stung more than it amused. Your jaw clenched, but you kept a neutral expression, unwilling to give them the satisfaction of a reaction.
Your mother’s voice cut through the mockery, firm but not forceful.
“That’s enough, Andrew. YN has her own path, and she’s doing well in school.”
“Well, of course she is,” Mike interjected, his tone smooth but laced with condescension “YN has always been… creative.”
More laughter followed, and you felt the familiar sting of their dismissive comments. Years of enduring this treatment had toughened you, but tonight, it felt heavier, like a weight pressing on your chest.
As dessert was served, Grandpa leaned toward you.
“You should be proud of your brother, Little YN. He’s setting the standard for the family. Maybe one day you’ll find your own way to contribute.”
“I am proud.” You said softly, voice steady despite the lump in your throat.
Your father, noticing the tension, tried to lighten the mood.
“Come now, let’s not overshadow YN entirely. She’s done well this year, too.”
“Sure,” Mike quipped, a smirk tugging at his lips “But tonight isn’t about her.”
You pushed your chair back, movements graceful despite the storm brewing inside you.
“If you’ll excuse me, I think I’ll get some air.”
The murmurs at the table quieted as you left the room, heels clicking against the polished floor.
Once outside, You inhaled deeply, the cool night air filling her lungs. Your chest heaved as you fought back the tears threatening to spill.
You wouldn’t let them see your break.
Not now. Not ever.
When your parents found you later, sitting on the garden bench, your father held out a small, velvet box.
“We’re sorry, darling,” He said, his voice soft with guilt “We didn’t mean to make you feel left out.”
You opened the box to reveal a delicate diamond bracelet, the stones catching the moonlight.
“It’s beautiful.” You said, slipping it onto your wrist.
But inside, the gesture felt hollow. No gift could fill the void left by years of neglect and overshadowing.
That night, the bracelet glittering on the nightstand, you made a vow: If the world wanted to underestimate you, you would let it. And then, you would show them all just how wrong they were.
✮ ⋆
Present year (Mike’s return)⋆｡
Hours later, you returned home after dinner at Hongjoong’s house, your mood lifted by the warmth and genuine affection of his parents. But the moment you stepped inside your own home, the oppressive atmosphere returned.
Mike confronted you as always, but you didn’t mind, didn’t talk back. But your chest burned with frustration and hurt.
As you reached the top of the stairs, you passed by your parents’ room. Their voices carried through the cracked door.
“Do you think we should talk to her?” Your mother asked, her tone uncertain.
Her father sighed “She’ll be fine. She always is.”
“I don’t know,” She said softly “Maybe we should get her something. You know how sensitive she can be about these things.”
“A trip, perhaps?” Your father suggested “Or maybe one of those designer handbags she likes. It’s not like she doesn’t enjoy it.”
You froze in the hallway, stomach twisting. Of course. This was how it always went. Gifts instead of apologies. Material things to soothe over their lack of understanding or support.
You leaned against the wall, fists clenching.
As a child, you had cried over these moments, hoping for more, longing for genuine care. Now, you knew better.
You have learned to accept it, even take advantage of it.
If they thought they could buy your affection, you would let them.
Your lips curved into a bitter smile. If they wanted to give you a car, a trip, a bag, or whatever else they thought would ease their guilt, so be it. You’d make sure it was worth their while.
But as you slipped into your room and closed the door, the bitterness remained, gnawing at the edges of your heart.
You should be used to this by now.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
The bustling energy of the school hallway feels distant as you walk to your locker. Usually, your heels click with purpose, your presence commanding attention.
But today, something is off. You aren't radiating your usual aura of authority and sharpness. Instead, you move through the crowd quietly, your thoughts heavy.
Your mind has been restless since the night before, replaying old memories you rarely allowed yourself to dwell on. The echoes of the past—your parents’ hollow apologies, Mike’s dismissive words—lingered, intertwining with the warmth you had felt during the date with Hongjoong.
Why now? Why did those memories resurface now, after a day that had been nothing short of… perfect?
As you approach your locker, you feel a presence behind you. Turning, you see Hongjoong standing there, his brows furrows in concern.
“You’ve been quiet.” He says softly.
You tilt your head, brushing a strand of hair behind your ear.
“And that’s unusual?”
“For you? Yeah.” He says, a small smile tugging at his lips.
You smirk faintly but don't respond. Instead, you play with the lock on your locker, your movements uncharacteristically hesitant.
Hongjoong leans against the locker next to yours, studying you.
“Something’s on your mind.”
You hesitate, pride warring with the strange weight pressing on your chest. Finally, you shrug, closing the locker door.
“Don’t flatter yourself. Not everything revolves around you, Joongie.”
Hongjoong chuckles, but his concern doesn't waver “Okay, but if you need someone to talk to, you know where to find me.”
You nod, taking a deep breath, trying to shake off the unease.
“Today I planned a little meeting at my house, bring a swimsuit.”
✮ ⋆
The sun cast golden reflections over the pool as music pulses through the speakers. Laughter and chatter fill the air as you and your friends lounge around, drinks in hand. Mindy, Samantha, Wooyoung, Seonghwa, San, Mingi, and Hongjoong are all there, the atmosphere lighthearted and carefree.
Dann, ever the obedient little pet, carries a tray of drinks, moving carefully to avoid spilling anything. She approaches the group, her expression unreadable as she sets the drinks down on the small poolside table.
"Finally." Seonghwa smirks, picking up his glass.
"Took you long enough, nerd." Mindy snaps.
"What, did you have to mix them by hand?" Wooyoung adds with a chuckle.
Dann clenches her jaw but says nothing. She had learned that silence is often the best defense. But today, something in her burns hotter than usual.
Maybe it is the sight of you and Hoongjoong sitting so close, his hand around your waist, your chemistry undeniable.
Maybe it’s the way you barely acknowledge her, as if she is nothing more than an accessory in your world.
"You should be more grateful," Dann mutters under her breath "Not everyone is willing to put up with your bullshit."
Silence. Then laughter. You arch an eyebrow, standing up and tilting your head as if you hadn't heard correctly.
"Excuse me?"
Dann swallows, but her resolve doesn't waver "I said—"
But before she can finish, you let out a scoff, exchanging a look with Wooyoung. Without warning, you place a hand on Dann’s shoulder and give her a hard shove. Wooyoung, catching on to the moment, joins in, and together you push Dann straight into the pool.
A loud splash echoes through the air.
Laughter erupts from the group as Dann surfaces, coughing and sputtering, her soaked hair plaster to her face. Wooyoung doubled over, wiping tears from his eyes. Even Hongjoong chuckles along with the others.
Dann wipes water from her eyes, her face burning—not just from humiliation but from something deeper. Something sharper.
As the group continues to laugh, none of them notices the figure watching from the mansion’s balcony. Mike stands at a distance, his expression unreadable, his grip tightening around his glass as he observes everything in silence.
The laughter has barely settled when Dann storms away, her soaked clothes clinging to her like a second skin, her face burning with humiliation.
She can still hear their amusement echoing behind her, but she doesn’t turn back. She wouldn’t give them the satisfaction.
Just as the group is about to move on from the incident, a familiar voice interrupts.
“Sweetie,” Your mother’s elegant tone cut through the chatter, drawing everyone’s attention.
“Yes, mommy?”
Your mother looks over the group with an approving nod “I see you’re all having fun,” She says pleasantly “I wanted to extend an invitation to all of you. This Saturday, we’re hosting a celebration for Mike’s accomplishments. It’ll be a grand affair.”
The mention of Mike makes your stomach twist, but you keep your expression unreadable.
Your mother’s gaze then lands directly on Hongjoong “And you, young man, I would love for you to attend.”
Hongjoong blinks, clearly caught off guard. He isn’t sure if that is true or just a polite formality, but he nods nonetheless.
“Uh, thank you, Mrs. Clarke. I’d be honored to come.”
“Wonderful.” She said smoothly, and with that, she excused herself, leaving the group with murmurs of intrigue about the upcoming event.
✮ ⋆
As the night stretches on, one by one, your friends depart, leaving only you and Hongjoong by the pool. The energy has shifted. The teasing, the careless fun—it all faded into something quieter, something heavier in the air between you.
The water is cool against Hongjoong’s skin, a welcome contrast to the heat radiating between you. His arms wrap around your waist, pulling you closer, feeling the warmth of your sun-kissed body against his own. You straddle his lap, your fingers threading through his hair as you talk.
“And your friends… what are they like?” You ask, your voice softer now, genuinely curious.
Hongjoong chuckles “A bunch of nerds, really,” He admits “Yunho is always energetic, making jokes and annoying. Yeosang is quiet but he is also a weirdo.” You both laugh, you can see in his eyes how much he appreciates his friends “On the other hand, Jongho is reserved and always listening, sometimes scary, but in general we spend way too much time debating books lore and analyzing sci-fi movies like it’s a science.”
You smirk, tilting your head toward him “That’s kinda cute.”
He raises an eyebrow “Cute? You wouldn’t last five minutes in one of our discussions.”
“Try me, I know much more than just fashion and pop culture gossip.”
And for a while, you simply talk. About things that don't matter, about things that do. And for the first time in a long time, you aren't thinking about your reputation, about expectations, or about proving yourself.
You are just there, with him.
At some point, you drift closer, and Hongjoong notices. The way your eyes soften under the dim lights, the way the water reflects off your skin. The way you look at him—not like he is some nerd trying to reach too high, but like he is just Hongjoong.
Without overthinking, he leans in, brushing a damp strand of hair behind your ear.
“You’re different when it’s just us.” He murmurs.
“And you don’t mind?”
He shakes his head “Not even a little.”
Your lips meet, tentative at first, then deeper. The warmth of the water, the way your bodies press against each other—it’s intoxicating. Your fingers curl around the nape of his neck, pulling him closer.
His hands trace slow, lazy circles on your bare waist, and for that moment, nothing else exists.
"You always talk about your nerdy friends," You murmur as you pull back a little, your breath catching against his lips "But you never really tell me about you."
Hongjoong lets out a soft chuckle, shaking his head "And here I thought you didn’t care."
You roll your eyes, but there’s something different now. The barest hint of a smirk touches your lips.
"Maybe I do."
His breath hitches at the sound of your voice, and you feel the faint tremor in his hands as they hover on your waist. There’s hesitation, a slight uncertainty, as if he’s not sure how far to go or whether he’s doing it right. You like it. It’s endearing.
You know exactly what’s on his mind, that quiet nervousness, and it only makes you want him more.
You reach out, tracing your fingertips slowly down his arm beneath the water, deliberate and teasing. He shivers slightly under your touch, his pulse hammering.
When your hand drifts to his chest, you linger there, pressing your palm flat against his skin, feeling the steady rhythm of his heart beneath your fingers.
“Let's go shopping tomorrow after school. You need a suit, and you have to impress my mother.”
“Only your mother?” He teases, making you scoff.
“Think what you want, but you need something that screams ‘I belong to YN Clarke’.”
Hongjoong laughs but nods “All right then, pretty.”
"You’re warm," You note absently, your breath shaky as you let your touch wander.
Hongjoong exhales sharply, his hand lifting, skimming over the curve of your waist. His fingertips brush over your bare skin, and you can feel his uncertainty, the way he pulls back just a fraction when you press closer.
His breath is uneven, like he’s trying to keep up with the rhythm of your touch, trying to suppress the nerves coiling in his gut. He swallows hard.
"YN—"
You cut him off before he can say more, leaning in to kiss him again, your lips meeting his with an urgency that both surprises and excites him.
The kiss is slow at first, teasing, but as Hongjoong slides his hand to the small of your back and pulls you closer, something inside both of you snaps.
The moment his grip tightens, pulling you flush against him, you gasp softly, feeling the heat between you intensify. Hongjoong's kiss becomes deeper, rougher, his hands gripping you like he’s been starving for you, his touch becoming bolder, more eager.
His muscles tense beneath your hands, the slight tremor in his touch betraying his inexperience, but you don’t mind. If anything, you find it charming, knowing you’re the one who can pull this reaction from him.
The water around you suddenly feels too cool compared to the heat of his body against yours. Your arms wrap around his neck, fingers threading through his damp hair as he presses you against the edge of the pool.
He kisses along your jaw, over the damp skin of your throat, sucking lightly before flicking his tongue over the spot to soothe the sting. You shudder at the sensation, your legs instinctively wrapping around his waist beneath the water.
"Joong—" You breathe, your voice barely above a whisper, lost in the warmth of the moment.
But he swallows the rest of your words with another kiss, drowning you both in the heat of it, in the desperation, the raw hunger that feels so real and unrestrained.
His hands roam lower now, gripping your thighs beneath the water, and you arch into him. You can feel his self-control hanging by a thread, the way he stifles every urge to push harder, faster, the way he almost overthinks each move. It’s a mix of hesitance and hunger.
He wants you so badly, but he’s not sure if he’s doing it right. But the more you respond, the more he realizes that’s not what matters. It’s the way you want him that matters.
You guide him without saying a word—your body melting against him, soft sighs escaping your lips as he becomes more confident with each touch. His kisses deepen, and the passion between you escalates.
There’s nothing awkward about this anymore. The hesitation fades, and what’s left is raw, real, and completely right.
"God, you drive me crazy," He murmurs against your lips, voice hoarse with the effort of holding back.
You smirk, brushing your fingers along his jaw "I know, nerd."
Hongjoong groans, his grip tightening as he nips at your lower lip in retaliation. You laugh, but it quickly fades into a soft sigh when he dips his head, kissing along the curve of your shoulder, his lips gentle but insistent.
For a moment, you can feel him stiffen slightly, unsure whether he’s moving too fast, and then you pull him closer, urging him to follow your lead. His hands move with more certainty now, exploring with a quiet passion, and the way his body reacts to yours is nothing short of electrifying.
The beauty of it is not just in the physicality—the way his hands and lips touch you—but in the way he’s learning.
Hongjoong is not perfect, and he’s not experienced, but he’s here.
He’s with you, and the more he responds to you, the more he learns what you need, the more you find yourself consumed by him.
It’s the way he forgets his nervousness, the way he becomes sure of himself because of you.
And you know, deep down, that this isn’t just about the touch, the heat, the kissing. It’s about the way he’s learning to be confident in himself. Because of you.
And that, in the end, makes all the difference.
For once, you let yourself get lost in it. In the way Hongjoong touches you, the way he wants you, the way he holds you like you’re something precious.
It 's intoxicating.
And yet, hidden in the shadows, Dann stands frozen, her chest tightening, her fingers clenched into fists as she watches the scene unfold.
Dann hadn’t meant to stay. She hadn’t meant to see.
But there she is, standing by the edge of the terrace, her heart sinking lower and lower.
It wasn’t just a kiss. It wasn’t just some game you were playing.
This is real.
She has told herself she doesn't care. That it doesn’t matter. But the painful sting in her heart tells her otherwise.
And it hurt.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
The next day, you and Hongjoong find yourselves strolling through an upscale shopping mall. The polished marble floors gleam under the soft glow of designer store lights.
As usual, your style is impeccable—heels clicking in rhythm, and your hair flowing with the air. Beside you, Hongjoong is a stark contrast, casual yet charming in his plain sweater and jeans.
You lead him into one of the most exclusive stores, where racks of tailored suits and elegant ensembles line the walls.
The sales assistants greet you with knowing smiles, instantly recognizing your status.
“Do you even know my size?” He teases, watching you confidently pull out a dark navy suit with subtle pinstripes.
You smirk, holding the suit up to him “I don’t need to know your size. I have an eye for perfection.”
He shakes his head, chuckling as he takes the suit from your hands “You know I don’t need something this expensive, right? I can just wear the stuff I have at home.”
“Not if you’re going to a party as my date.” You say firmly, your tone leaving no room for argument.
Hongjoong smiles softly but doesn’t press further. He disappears into the fitting room, and while he’s gone, you wander the store, your gaze drifting over the luxurious displays.
The weight in your chest hasn’t eased since yesterday. If anything, it feels heavier under the bright lights and polished surfaces.
It’s not about the suit. It’s not about the party. Shopping, spending, indulging—it’s the only thing that ever distracted you from the hollow ache inside. It always has been.
“YN?” Hongjoong’s voice pulls you from your thoughts.
You turn, and for a moment, your breath catches. The suit fits him perfectly, accentuating his broad shoulders and lean frame.
He looks… confident. Polished.
Yours.
“What do you think?” He asks, doing a half spin for effect.
You step closer, your fingers brushing over the lapel of the jacket “You look…” You pause, searching for the right word, then smirk “Like someone who belongs to me.”
He laughs, shaking his head, but there’s a hint of pink in his cheeks “I should’ve known you’d say that.”
After the purchase is made—your card, of course—you both leave the store. You’re holding onto a medium-sized bag containing some clothes as Hongjoong holds a bag with his new suit that costs more than some people make in a month.
As you walk through the mall, Hongjoong’s phone buzzes in his pocket. He glances at the screen, and a small smile spreads across his face.
“What is it?” You ask, curious.
“It’s Jongho, Yeosang, and Yunho,” He says, showing you the message “They’re asking if I want to hit the arcade with them tonight. It’s been ages since we’ve hung out.”
You notice the way his eyes light up at the mention of his friends, and for a moment, your heart clenches.
You nod, keeping your expression neutral.
“You should go.”
He hesitates, slipping his phone back into his pocket “I don’t want to leave you alone.”
“I’ll be fine,” You say with a small smile “Go have fun with them. You deserve it.”
“Are you sure?” He asks, studying your face.
“Yeah,” You reply, tilting your head slightly “I’ll just go home and relax. Maybe binge some show or something.”
Hongjoong doesn’t look convinced, but he doesn’t push.
“Okay, but only if you promise me something.”
“What?”
“That you’ll call me if you need anything.”
You roll your eyes, your lips curving into a smirk “Relax, Joong. I’m not helpless.”
“I know you’re not,” He says softly “But I care about you, pretty. A lot.”
The sincerity in his voice makes your chest tighten. You can’t help but wonder if it’s only a matter of time before those words—his care, his affection—turn into something else.
Something colder.
He leans down and kisses your forehead, his hand briefly brushing yours.
“I’ll text you later, okay?”
“Okay,” You whisper, watching him walk away.
You clutch the bag in your hand, the weight of the expensive items nothing compared to the familiar emptiness settling in your chest.
✮ ⋆
The arcade was alive with the sound of laughter, the ping of game machines, and the occasional cheer of someone winning.
Hongjoong walked in, spotting the boys huddled near the air hockey table.
“Hongjoong!” Yunho calls, waving him over.
“About time you showed up,” Yeosang teases “We thought YN had you on a leash or something.”
Hongjoong rolls his eyes, grinning “Very funny.”
Jongho smirks “For a moment we thought you'd say no, since you've only spent time with her.”
“I also have a life apart from being with her and she also needs her space, so she let me come.”
“She let you come? I didn't know you had to ask permission to go out with your friends.” Yunho snorts mockingly.
“We’re kind of a thing now.” Hongjoong murmurs shyly.
The boys look confused at each other before looking at him.
“What do you mean with that, Joong?”
He hesitates before shrugging, a small smile tugging at his lips “We had a date.”
Yunho drops the joystick he was holding “A date?!
“Wait, wait,” Yeosang says, laughing “YN Clarke? Like, the queen bee had a date with you?”
“The same one.” Hongjoong replies, scratching the back of his neck.
Yeosang and Yunho exchange a look before breaking into wide grins.
Jongho let out a low whistle “I thought you were joking about liking her. She actually went out with you?”
“Yeah,” Hongjoong says, his smile growing “It was amazing. I took her to the amusement park. She even let me win her a prize—a stuffed bunny.”
Yunho grinns “Aww, how romantic. Joongie the Casanova.”
“More like Hongjoong the miracle nerd,” Jongho adds “Seriously, dude. YN Clarke? That’s insane.”
Yunho’s grin widens “Dude, you’re living the dream. A date with the queen bee of the school? You’re officially a legend.”
Hongjoong chuckles, his face reddening slightly. Before he could respond, a familiar voice interrupted.
“Joong?”
He turns to see Dann standing a few feet away, clutching a soda.
“Dann?” He says, confused “What are you doing here?”
“Yunho texted me,” Dann says, glancing at the boys “Thought it’d be nice to hang out.”
Hongjoong stiffs slightly “Oh... Uh, cool.”
Dann steps closer, her gaze lingering on him “It’s been a while. You’ve been… busy.”
He scratches the back of his neck, glancing at his friends for support “Yeah, I guess I have.”
Dann smiles, though it doesn't quite reach her eyes “With YN, right?”
“Yeah,” He answers, his tone cautious.
Yeosang, sensing the tension, jumps in “Hey, let’s hit the games. Air hockey, anyone?”
“Sure,” Dann says quickly, stepping closer to Hongjoong “We can team up.”
Hongjoong hesitates. He knows you don’t like Dann being around him—and he can't blame you. Dann’s feelings for him are obvious, you told him from the beginning and he can already confirm it.
He doesn’t want to hurt Dann, but he also doesn’t want to disrespect you.
“Actually,” He starts, his tone gentle but firm “Why don’t you play with Jongho? He’s unbeatable.”
Dann’s smile falters “Oh. Right. Sure.”
Yunho raises an eyebrow at Hongjoong, but doesn’t comment. They are all aware of the feelings of both, Dann in love with Hongjoong and Hongjoong with you, they just hope that things don't get awkward in the future.
As they move toward the air hockey table, Dann hangs back, watching Hongjoong laugh and joke with the others.
Her chest tightness. Hongjoong was pushing her away—kindly, yes, but it was still rejection. And she knows why.
It 's not fair. She had been there for him when no one else was. She had defended him when people mocked him for being a nerd. And now, he was choosing you. Again.
Her phone buzzes, breaking her thoughts. She pulls it out to see a message from Mike:
Mike C: Stay focused. Remember our deal.
Dann clenches her jaw, her fingers tightening around the phone.
If Hongjoong wants to choose you, fine. But you don’t deserve him. And Dann is going to make sure he sees that—no matter what it takes.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
The cafeteria is alive with its usual energy, but the corner table claimed by you and your entourage buzzes with a more refined excitement. The topic of the day? Saturday’s celebration for Mike at the Ritz.
“So,” Mindy begins, twirling a strand of her perfectly styled hair “Who’s already stressing about their outfit? Because I may or may not have gone a little overboard at Valentino yesterday.”
“Only yesterday?” Wooyoung teases, smirking “Some of us have been planning for days. I’m bringing the tux my dad wore to that gala in Monaco. He swears it’s vintage gold now.”
You scoff, taking a delicate sip of your iced coffee “Monaco tux or not, just don’t embarrass me, Woo.”
“Moi? Embarrass you? Never, babydoll.” He grins, leaning back in his chair.
Mindy sighs dramatically, resting her chin in her palm “I still think about the last party. The lighting, the flowers, the champagne towers. Do you think they’ll top it this time?”
“They’d better,” You reply nonchalantly, though your gaze flickered briefly “My parents love to ‘impress.’ It’s practically their brand.”
“And what time should we grace them with our presence?” Another of your friends, Samantha, asks, pulling out her phone.
“Seven-thirty, at the Ritz. And be punctual. This isn’t one of those parties you can show up fashionably late to.”
“Noted,” Wooyoung says, tapping the time into his calendar “And little Hongjoong? Are you ready to make your grand debut into the Clarke world of extravagance?”
Hongjoong, who has been quietly observing the banter, chuckles softly “I think I’ll survive. YN’s already dragged me through the whole shopping process.”
“Oh, please,” You cut in, smirking “Dragged? You should be thanking me, Joong.”
He raises his hands in surrender, laughing “All right, all right. I owe you one.”
“Just one?” Wooyoung teases again, winking.
Mindy’s eyes lit up as she leaned forward “Wait, what did you go with? Armani? Tom Ford?”
“Tom Ford, It suits him. And trust me, he’ll be turning heads Saturday night.”
“Can’t wait to see it.” Woo says, smirking at him.
“So, how many bottles of champagne do you think your parents are bringing out this time? Ten? Twenty?”
You snort, leaning back in the chair with an air of practiced nonchalance “If it’s less than twenty, I’ll personally tell the caterers to triple the order.”
Wooyoung laughs “Forget the champagne. I’m more interested in how many pastries they’ll have. Last party, I swear I had a religious experience with those chocolate eclairs.”
“Oh, the eclairs,” Sam sighs dreamily “I’ve been thinking about them since then. And don’t even get me started on the tiramisu.”
Hongjoong chuckles, glancing at you “So, is this a party or a dessert buffet?”
“It’s both. A Clarke family event is always an experience. You’ll see.”
“Damn right,” Woo said, raising his water bottle like it was a champagne glass “To YN Clarke and her family's amazing parties!”
The group laughs, the easy camaraderie filling the space. Hongjoong looks at you, a soft smile playing on his lips. You caughting his gaze and, for a brief moment, your confident exterior softened.
The party was just days away, and for now, everything seemed perfect.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
The air in the Clarke mansion was a flurry of activity, with staff bustling through the grand halls, preparing for the evening’s event. The clinking of silverware and the faint aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the dining room, where the family had gathered for breakfast.
You sit at the table, scrolling through your phone, your polished nails tapping lightly against the screen. Across from you, Mike is casually flipping through the day’s paper, looking as composed as ever. Your father is already grumbling about last-minute details while your mother sips her tea, the picture of elegance amidst the chaos.
“Dann, can you help me with this?” Dann’s mother’s voice echoes softly from the kitchen.
Dann, trying to stay invisible, hesitates before hurrying to her mother’s side. Together, they carefully carry trays of food into the dining room.
Your father raises an eyebrow, glancing at Dann as she places a platter of fruit on the table.
“Quite the multi-tasker, aren’t you?” He remarks, his tone hovering between sarcasm and indifference.
Dann stiffens slightly, her cheeks coloring “Just helping my mom, sir.” She says quietly.
Before anyone can say more, your mother sets her cup down with a delicate clink.
“You know, I’ve been watching how hard you work around here, Dann,” She says warmly “Always helping your mother, always polite. I think it’s only fair that we extend an invitation to you for tonight’s party.”
The room falls silent. your head snaps up, eyes narrowing slightly, while Mike’s smirk barely conceals his amusement.
“Mom,” You begin, voice sharp “I don’t think—”
“Nonsense, sweetie,” She interrupts smoothly “It’s about time we show a little appreciation. Don’t you think so?”
Dann blinks, surprise evident on her face “Oh, Mrs. Clarke, that’s… I mean, thank you, but—”
“Of course,” Your father interjects, his tone dry “Just make sure you’re aware of the dress code. It’s black tie, not… casual.” His eyes flick briefly over Dann’s simple attire, and the implication hangs heavy in the air.
Your mother’s jaw tightens, and shoots her husband a pointed look “Which is why, sweetheart, you’ll be lending her something appropriate to wear. I’m sure you have plenty of dresses that would look lovely on her.”
Your lips curve into a slow, calculated smile “Of course, Mommy.”
After breakfast, you guide Dann into your walk-in closet with a sweeping gesture, the dazzling array of dresses catching her wide-eyed attention.
She's already entered the closet next to your room, but this one is much bigger. Her fingers trail hesitantly over the delicate fabrics, her expression a mix of awe and discomfort.
She’s never been surrounded by such luxury, let alone been invited to wear it. The second-hand clothes she normally wears couldn’t be further from this.
“You’ve got so many.” She murmurs, her voice tinged with wonder.
You smile, tilting your head “I know, it’s almost a problem, right? Too many choices. But don’t worry—I’ll help you find something that’s just right for tonight.”
Dann nods quickly, her unease flickering across her face. She’s not used to this kind of kindness from you, and it’s unsettling.
But as much as she doesn’t trust it, she can’t exactly refuse either.
You reach into one of the last racks, where the clothes you no longer wear are stored, you pull out a shimmering emerald gown with a slit up the side.
“Here’s a favorite of mine. It’s gorgeous on, trust me. And it’ll definitely help you stand out.”
Dann takes the dress with both hands, handling it as though it might dissolve in her grip “It’s beautiful,” She says, her tone genuine “I’ve never worn anything like this before.”
You smile, masking your amusement “Well, there’s a first time for everything.”
Moving through the racks, you select another gown, this one a deep crimson with delicate lace detailing.
“Or maybe this one? It’s a classic. Wore it to a charity auction, and let me tell you—it turned heads.”
Dann stares at the dress, wide-eyed “Wow. It 's amazing.”
She’s completely oblivious to the fact that these dresses, as stunning as they are, are from last year’s collections—now outdated by anyone with even a passing knowledge of fashion.
To Dann, they’re the height of elegance.
You pull a lavender gown from the back of the rack, its soft beading catching the light.
“This one’s a little more subtle,” You say, handing it over “It’s sweet and sophisticated. I think it’s perfect for you. You can keep it, take it as a gift.”
Dann nods enthusiastically, her unease momentarily forgotten as she clutches the gown to her chest.
“Thank you, YN. This is… this is so kind of you.”
You wave off her gratitude with a bright smile “Of course. It’s my pleasure. Go try it on, let’s see how it looks.”
She disappears into the dressing room, and you lean against the doorway with a smug tilt to your lips.
The plan is unfolding perfectly. These dresses, while stunning in their time, are no longer the kind that command admiration—they invite quiet judgment.
But Dann doesn’t know that, and that’s exactly the point.
When she steps out in the lavender gown, her face lights up “It fits perfectly,” She says, her voice tinged with shy excitement.
You study her for a long moment, your smile never faltering.
“It looks wonderful on you, just wait until you see everyone’s reaction tonight.”
Dann beams, completely unaware of the double meaning behind your words.
“I can’t thank you enough, YN.”
You wave her off again “No need to thank me. I’m just glad you’ll have something to wear.”
Inside, you’re already picturing the whispers and raised eyebrows at the party. Tonight will be a night she’ll never forget—for all the wrong reasons.
As Dann leaves the room clutching the dress, you lean against the doorway, arms crossed. Your mother’s unexpected invitation throws you off, but if Dann is going to attend, you will make sure it’s on your terms.
✮ ⋆
Dann holds the lavender dress against herself, staring at the delicate fabric in awe. She hurries to the kitchen, where her mother is wiping down the counters.
“Mom, look at this,” Dann says, holding the gown up for her mother to see “It’s beautiful, but I don’t have the right shoes or makeup to match it.”
Her mother glances at the dress, her expression softening with a mix of pride and concern.
“It’s lovely, sweetheart, but you’re right. You need to look your best if you’re going to that party.”
Dann frowns “But… I don’t have anything like that.”
Her mother thinks for a moment, before leaving the kitchen she smiles at her “Why don’t you go shopping? Find a nice pair of shoes and maybe some makeup. You deserve to feel special tonight.”
As Dann mulls over the idea, Mike enters the room, his usual air of confidence trailing behind him. Overhearing their conversation, he leans casually against the doorframe.
“Shopping for the party, Dann?” He asks, his tone dripping with feigned interest.
Dann straightens, clutching the dress tighter “I don’t have shoes or makeup, so I thought—”
“Perfect.” Mike pulls out his wallet, flipping through the neatly arranged bills and credit cards. He holds out a black credit card “Here. Get yourself something nice. Consider it a little thank-you for… being cooperative.”
Dann hesitates but eventually takes the card, murmuring a quiet “Thanks.”
Mike’s smirk widens “While you’re at it, I’ve been thinking. Wouldn’t it be amusing if Hongjoong accidentally ended up at the wrong address tonight?”
Dann’s brows furrow “What do you mean?”
“Oh, you know.” His tone is casual, but his eyes gleam with mischief “If YN’s little nerd showed up at the wrong place, it’d be quite the embarrassment. Don’t you think?”
Dann bites her lip “How would we even do that?”
Mike’s smirk sharpens “Simple. We just need YN’s phone. Once you’re back, we’ll figure out the details.”
Dann nods slowly, the plan settling uneasily in her mind. She doesn’t like deceiving Hongjoong, but the thought of disrupting YN’s perfect evening is too tempting to resist.
Later, at the shopping mall, Dann wanders through the perfume section, marveling at the elegant bottles and their enticing scents. She is about to make her selection when a familiar voice catches her attention.
Turning, she sees Hongjoong standing a few feet away, examining a cologne bottle. His brows furrowed in concentration as he sprayed a tester onto a card.
“Joong?” Dann calls, her voice carrying a hint of surprise.
He looks up, a smile breaking across his face “Dann? What are you doing here?”
“Just… shopping,” She says, holding up a small bag “You?”
“Same,” He says with a laugh “YN told me I needed to step up my game for tonight, so here I am.”
Dann’s mind races. This is her chance to plant the seed of doubt. She steps closer, lowering her voice conspiratorially.
“By the way, did YN tell you about the venue change?”
Hongjoong blinks “Venue change? What are you talking about?”
“Oh,” Dann says, feigning surprise “I thought she’d have mentioned it. YN’s mother invited me to the celebration because I’ve been working for YN, so she told me earlier that Mike decided to move the party to that new place downtown, I'll send you the address, but she said something about Mike wanting a more modern vibe.”
Hongjoong frowns, confusion flickering across his face “Why didn’t YN tell me?”
Dann shrugs “She’s probably just busy with everything. You know how these rich people's events are—chaotic.”
He nods slowly, though uncertainty lingers in his expression “Yeah… maybe.”
Dann smiles sweetly, placing a hand on his arm “Don’t worry. Just show up at. You’ll be fine.”
As Dann walks away, a pang of guilt surfaces. But it’s quickly overshadowed by the thrill of watching the plan unfold.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
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𓇼 𝘫𝘶𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘰𝘰𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘨 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 I'm Not Getting It. - @darlingsaybonvoyage best friend!wooyoung x reader (texts) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Miles Across - @callmeagardengnome idol!wooyoung x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Only Mine, My Darling - @tinyidle non-idol!wooyoung x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Secrets And Stars - @maltesejjong fiancé!non-idol!wooyoung x reader (series) 𓈒𓏸 𓈒𓏸 Stay Back, I Bite - @solaris-amethyst non-idol!wooyoung x gn!reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓇼 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘪 𝘫𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘩𝘰 𓇼 𓈒𓏸 Random Bf!Ateez Texts - @hwamphwamp bf!jongho x reader (texts) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Untitled - @bombuni bf!jongho x reader (drabble) 𓆞 𓆞 Very Demure - @pyramid-of-starrs bf!jongho x reader (one-shot) 𓆞 𓈒𓏸 Warm - @beenbaanbuun bf!jongho x reader (one-shot) 𓈒𓏸 𓆞 Zemblanity - @in-san-ity mafia!jongho x reader (one-shot) 𓆞
so much happened this chapter and so much is going to happen next chapter oh reader you are so much better than me cause I would’ve leaped across that table like a frog and punch mike
I HATE THAT MAN!
It was cute seeing reader and hongjoong talk and now everything gonna go downhill probably due to miscommunication or reader getting in their own head.
AHHHHH I CAN’T
i’m excited for the next part keep up the great work! <3
Popular, Boy
☆05: The first fracture.
Pairing: Nerd!Hongjoong x Popular!Reader
Genre: +18, slow burn, angst, smut, drama, dark academic, love triangle.
wc: 10,5k
(sorry, lot of important things)
Summary: Mike's return brings back old wounds, family cruelty, and impossible expectations. Amidst it all, you find solance on Hongjoong.
But alliances form, and the game shifts... you have no idea what's coming.
Warnings: Verbal abuse, family being mean, manipulation, power dynamics, fluff, suggestive.
Series masterlist
☆04 ☆06: The first move.
The living room of the Clarke residence gleams with quiet opulence. Everything is meticulously arranged—vases of freshly cut lilies, trays of delicate hors d'oeuvres, and glasses of sparkling champagne.
Your mother flutters around, checking every last detail, while your father adjusts his tie for the third time.
You sit stiffly on the cream leather sofa, arms crossed. Your outfit—an expertly styled designer ensemble of a short skirt, matching crop top, cropped jacket, and high boots—screams confidence, but your body language betrays your discomfort.
Dann lingers near the edge of the room, notebook in hand, trying to blend in with the staff. She glances between you and your parents, who seem almost giddy with anticipation.
“He’ll be here any moment.” The elegant woman says, smoothing out imaginary wrinkles on her skirt.
The sound of a car pulling into the driveway cuts through the room. The staff lined up near the entrance, their postures straight and practiced. But you, you don't move.
The front door opens, and Mike strides in, flanked by a crisp breeze. He’s tall and impeccably dressed, his tailored suit hugging his broad shoulders perfectly. His dark hair is slicked back, and his smile is radiant.
“Mike!” Your mother exclaims, rushing to embrace him.
“Mom,” Mike says warmly, wrapping her in a hug “It’s good to be home.”
Your father steps forward, shaking Mike’s hand firmly “Welcome back, son. You’ve been missed.”
Mike turns his charm on the staff next, shaking hands and thanking them for keeping the house in order. He’s polite, almost disarmingly so, his every word and gesture oozing charisma.
Dann watches in awe. She’s heard about Mike because of Seonghwa—YN’s perfect older brother—but seeing him in person is something else entirely. He’s like a prince stepping out of a storybook, all confidence and charm.
“YN,” He says, his tone casual but pointed “You’re quiet.”
Your jaw tightens, but you force a smile “Welcome back.”
There’s no embrace, no handshake. Just those two words, cold and clipped. The air between you hums with unspoken tension, and Dann notices the flicker of amusement in Mike’s eyes.
“Thank you, little sister,” Mike says, his tone condescending despite the warm words “It’s good to see you.” His gaze flicks over your outfit, and his smile tilts “You’ve certainly… embraced your personal style. Very bold, YN.”
“Speaking of outfits,” Your mother interjects, her tone brisk, “Sweetie, I expect you to wear the dress I picked out for you tonight. This isn’t just any dinner, it’s a celebration for Mike’s return, and you need to look the part.”
You scoff, crossing your legs “I think I’m dressed just fine.”
Mike’s gaze lingers on your short skirt and boots, his smirk widening “Oh, you’re definitely making a statement. Not sure it’s the one family would approve of, though.”
You shoot him a glare “Thanks for the unsolicited advice, brother.”
The tension between you two is palpable, and Dann feels caught in the crossfire. To her, Mike seems perfect—charming, kind, and everything you aren't. But the sharpness in your voice and the smugness in Mike’s eyes tell a different story.
“Let’s not bicker,” Your father says quickly, trying to diffuse the moment “Tonight is a family celebration. Son, go get some rest before dinner. Darling, you’ll change, won’t you?”
You don't answer, your lips pressing into a thin line.
“Of course she will,” The tallest says, his tone dripping with condescension “YN always knows how to make an impression.”
As your parents and staff begin leaving the room, Mike lags behind for a moment, catching your eye.
“Still bratty, I see,” He murmurs, just loud enough for you to hear.
“Still idiot, I see.” You snap back under your breath.
Dann catches the exchange, her stomach twisting. There’s more to this ‘perfect brother’ than meets the eye, she realizes, but for now, she pushes the thought aside and trails after the staff, notebook in hand.
Something feels… off.
✮ ⋆
The grand dining room sparkles under the soft glow of crystal chandeliers. Every corner of Clarke’s mansion is dressed to perfection, as though the house itself is eager to impress Mike upon his long-awaited return.
The scent of roasted lamb and decadent desserts fills the air, mingling with the low hum of polite conversation.
You sit at the far end of the polished mahogany table, fingers tapping against your wine glass. You're dressed immaculately in a tailored navy dress that your mother picked out for the occasion. Everyone around you gushes over Mike’s accomplishments—the glowing pride of the family.
“Three years, and you’ve outdone yourself, Mike,” Your grandfather says, beaming “A master’s degree from Germany, and already planning your next move. We couldn’t be prouder.”
Mike, seated comfortably at the head of the table like a king, offers a modest shrug, though the grin on his face betrays his satisfaction.
“It’s been a long journey, but worth it. I just want to make sure I uphold the family name.” He gives you a look before he smiles.
Your jaw tightens. You know what’s coming next.
“YN.” Your aunt, Silvia, chimes in, turning to you with a saccharine smile “You’re still in school, right? How’s the business program treating you?”
Fucking business program, you hate it.
You force a smile, your heart racing “It’s… going well. Challenging, but rewarding.”
Mike chuckles, drawing all eyes back to him “Challenging? Business? Come on, YN. You’ve been in undergrad for what, three years now? I could teach you the basics in a week.”
The table erupts into polite laughter, but your cheeks burn. You know the jab isn’t just playful—it’s calculated, meant to belittle you.
“Everyone can go at their own pace and that's okay.” You say, voice sharp enough to make your mother glance at you warningly.
Mike leans back in his chair, swirling his wine “It’s not about pace, YN. It’s about discipline. Focus. Something you’ve always struggled with.”
“That's true, Mikey!” One of the younger cousins laughs “I'm just in my first year of college and it's all too easy, it's not ‘challenging’ as YN says.”
“Maybe the career is only made for men, we are the ones who dominate business in companies.” Your father's brother, William, comments by drinking his wine elegantly.
Everyone laughs at his sexist comment.
"Don't say that, honey!" His wife slaps his arm with a giggle "Your daughter studies the same thing."
"But my daughter is smart and focused." He blurts out with mockery as he gives you a look, and you save yourself the urge to roll your eyes.
"YN is also focused, she has good grades." Your mother says sweetly, defending you.
"But 'good' is not enough, you always have to strive for perfection and not settle for mediocre grades." Mike adds with a shrug.
And the whole table laughs like it's the funniest joke they've ever heard. Your mother shakes her head disapprovingly but says nothing.
Your father clears his throat, trying to shift the conversation, but the damage is done. Mike’s words hang in the air.
Your hands curl into fists under the table. You’ve had enough.
“You always know how to make someone feel bad.” You mutter, just loud enough for Mike to hear.
“What did you say?” He asks, his tone faux-innocent, leaning forward slightly.
“Enough, kids.” Your mother says with an awkward smile.
But Mike isn’t done. He leans closer, his voice low and cutting “You’re a disappointment, YN. You always have been. Pretending to study business when you’re off chasing some frivolous dream.”
You hold your breath when you hear that, that fucking idiot "You don't know anything."
“Fashion design, really? What are you going to do with that, sew costumes for kids’ plays?”
Your parents look at Mike in terror. The topic of your study preferences was always private, so that the rest of the family wouldn't gossip and intrude.
Yes, your parents knew and know about your passion for fashion, since you were a child your dream was to be a designer and create your own brand, but due to the family business they forced you to study business management, and you had to accept without being able to reproach.
Mike knew it too, and still decided to talk.
The table falls silent, and your chest tightens when everyone looks at you with surprise and mockery.
Without noticing, your eyes burn with unshed tears.
“I—excuse me.” You stammer, pushing your chair back abruptly.
Your mother calls after you, but you are already halfway to the door. Heels click against the marble floor as you grab your car keys and storm out of the house.
You don't know where you’re going until you’re halfway across town, your phone clutched in your trembling hand. The only person who crosses your mind is Hongjoong, you need Hongjoong right now.
You don't text or call him, you don't need to. You know he’ll be home.
When you reach his house, you knock on the door, heart pounding as you wait.
Hongjoong answers, his hair disheveled and his face scrunched in confusion.
“YN?”
“Can I come in?” You ask, your voice breaking.
Hongjoong watches as you step inside, the soft click of your heels on the polished floor breaking the quiet of the hallway.
Your dress gleams faintly under the light, the kind of fabric and craftsmanship that scream exclusivity. The subtle sheen of your makeup and the designer heels complete the look, making you seem almost out of place in the cozy, modest home.
His heart clenches. He doesn’t ask questions, not yet. Instead, he offers a small, reassuring smile.
“Come in, pretty.” From the dining room, the clinking of cutlery and quiet conversation filters through. Hongjoong glances toward it, hesitating “Uh… we’re having dinner. My parents are home.”
You straighten, brushing your hair away as if steeling yourself “Okay”
He nods and leads you to the dining room. His parents, mid-conversation, look up as you enter.
“Oh.. who’s this beautiful lady?”
You smile shyly at her, and Hongjoong puts his hand on your bare shoulder.
“Mom, Dad,” He says, clearing his throat “This is YN.”
His parents exchange a look, surprise flashing in their eyes. Hongjoong’s mother, a petite woman with a kind face, recovers first.
“YN, it’s nice to meet you. Would you like to join us for dinner?”
You smile politely, your usual sharpness softened “If it’s not too much trouble, thank you.”
“No trouble at all.” His father says, though his gaze lingers briefly on your dress, shoes, even your watch—items that likely cost more than their monthly mortgage.
You glide into the chair with practiced elegance, every movement drawing attention. The table is set simply—a far cry from the elaborate spreads you’re used to—but something about the simplicity feels oddly grounding.
Hongjoong pulls out the chair next to yours, sitting close but not too close. His parents exchange another glance before his mother breaks the silence.
“So, YN, how do you and Hongjoong know each other?”
Your posture stiffens slightly, and Hongjoong tenses, too. If only they knew how you met and the things that Hongjoong has done under your orders and all those humiliations, they would surely kick you out.
You both share a fleeting glance, silently agreeing to tread carefully.
“We’re in the same business program.” Hongjoong says, his voice steady.
You nod, your hands resting lightly on the table “Yes, we’ve worked on a few projects together. Joong’s very… dedicated.”
Hongjoong’s parents smile, though his father’s expression is tinged with curiosity at the way you call his son.
“That’s wonderful,” He says “It’s good to see you making connections, Hongjoong. Your school’s not an easy one to get into.”
You smile faintly, but there’s an underlying tension “It’s very competitive.” You add.
The pretty woman serves the meal—roast chicken, mashed potatoes, and a crisp salad. The aroma is inviting, but you hesitate for a moment, the simple fare so unlike the complex, perfectly plated dishes you’re accustomed to.
As you eat, Hongjoong’s father can’t help but notice the way you hold the fork, the delicate way you cut the food.
Very elegant and sophisticated.
“So, YN,” He says, his tone conversational but probing “You must be quite driven to be studying at such a prestigious school.”
You pause, your fork halting mid-air “I suppose so. It’s… a good school.”
Again, Hongjoong’s parents share a glance, clearly trying to reconcile the poised, elegant girl in front of them with their down-to-earth son.
“Did you always want to study business?” The female asks gently.
Your hand tightens on the fork, but your smile remains “It's the common choice in my family.”
You say vaguely, your voice betraying none of the resentment you feel. Hongjoong, noticing the slight tension in your posture, jumps in.
“YN’s really good at presentations.” He tries to shift the conversation “She knows how to keep everyone attentive.”
The praise makes you glance at him, your expression softening “And he’s increrible in everythig.” You add a rare note of warmth in your voice.
As the meal winds down, you find yourself surprisingly at ease. The food, while simple, is filling and comforting. The warmth of the room, the unpretentious conversation—it feels like a stark contrast to the cold, high-stakes environment you’re used to.
“You’re welcome here anytime.” Hongjoong’s mother says as they finish, her smile is genuine.
You look at her, and for the first time in a long while, you feel the ache in your chest ease just a little.
“Thank you… that means a lot.”
As Hongjoonng leads you to the living room, you sink into the sofa, the tension in your shoulders finally dissipating.
“Thank you.”
Hongjoong sits beside you, close but respectful “Anytime, pretty.”
After a quiet moment, Hongjoong decides to speak again.
“YN, you don’t have to tell me everything, but… something’s bothering you. Was it your brother? The dinner?”
Your head tilts back, staring at the ceiling as if trying to collect yourself before responding. Your thoughts race, but you don't know how to express them.
You've always been the type of person who keeps your concerns and problems to yourself, not wanting to be a nuisance to others with your stuff. But Hongjoong gives you enough peace of mind to want to tell him a thousand things.
Finally, you sigh, the weight of everything pressing down on your shoulders.
“It was just… the same thing.” You sigh again “My family acting like Mike is perfect. It’s like nothing I do is ever good enough for them. It’s always ‘Mike this, Mike that,’ and I…” You trail off, your throat tightening “I hate it.”
Hongjoong’s heart twinges with sympathy, and he shifts closer, his hand resting gently on your shoulder.
“You don’t have to prove anything to them, YN. You’re incredible the way you are. You don’t need to be him. You’re your own person.”
You smile faintly but it doesn’t reach your eyes “I don’t even know who I am sometimes,” You admit softly “I pretend to be what they want me to be, but I hate it. I hate pretending.”
He leans in slightly, his hand moving from your shoulder to gently cup your face, lifting it so you meet his gaze. His voice is tender, but firm.
“Pretty, you don’t have to pretend. You’re not alone in this, okay? You don’t have to carry this burden by yourself. I’m here for you. I promised you I'd do anything for you, remember?”
You laugh a little knowing what he means, but you know that he didn't promise to do anything just because it's you. He did it because he wanted to come out of the shadows, to be popular.
Your eyes shimmer with unspoken emotion as you watch him, lips parting slightly as if to speak but then closing again. The vulnerability in your gaze makes his heart ache, and without thinking, he leans forward, pressing a soft kiss to your lips.
The moment is warm, comforting, and safe. It’s like nothing else in the world matters right now.
Just then, in the kitchen, Hongjoong’s mother steps back into the shadows, her heart aching for you. She had heard everything—the quiet, broken words, the tenderness between the two. And in that moment, she sees beyond the image you project.
Beneath the designer clothes, the perfect façade, you’re just a girl, trying to navigate the weight of your family’s expectations.
Her heart aches with a kind of pity for you who has everything and yet, nothing at all. She quietly wipes a stray tear from her cheek, then retreats further into the kitchen, giving you the space you need.
Your voice is almost lost in the soft quiet of the room as you look at him once more, a gentle smile beginning to form.
“Thank you, Joongie.” You whisper, eyes reflecting the depth of your unspoken gratitude.
Hongjoong smiles back, his heart full “Always, pretty. Always.”
And for the first time in a long while, you feel like maybe, just maybe, you’re not as alone as you thought.
✮ ⋆
The quiet of the house wraps around you as you step inside, the weight of the night still lingering in your bones. It’s late—almost twelve PM—and the house is eerily silent. No one is waiting for you in the hallway.
The fancy dinner is long over, and you haven't bothered to text them to let them know where you were, knowing they wouldn’t care.
You take off your heels, the cool hardwood of the floor brushing against your feet, and walk slowly into the living room.
There, sitting on the couch with his back straight and arms crossed, is Mike.
“Look who finally decided to come back,” He says, his tone as sharp as a knife “Having a little fun, were we? How nice of you to finally come home.”
Your chest tightens as you stop in the doorway. You haven't seen him like this in a while—his arrogance and superiority seem to grow with every moment he’s home. His sharp gaze cuts through you like a blade, but you stand tall, trying to control the fluttering in your stomach.
“Don’t look at me like that,” He sneers, his eyes narrowing as he stands “You think you can just walk in late after disappearing for hours? You’re pathetic.”
Your heart sinks, but you keep a neutral expression “I didn’t mean to make you wait.”
“Wait?” Mike scoffs, pacing in front of you “You think I care about waiting? I care about you making a fool of yourself in front of the family. You’ve always been a brat, and you still haven’t learned. You’re not a child anymore, YN. You need to grow up.”
Every word he spits feels like venom, but you know better than to show weakness. You know what he’s doing—tearing you down, making you feel small.
This isn’t new. This is just who he is.
“I’m just trying to live my life, Mike.”
Mike pauses, his smirk widening as he leans closer “Live your life? You’ve been living in a fantasy, little one. You think you can just pretend everything’s fine? Everyone thinks you’re studying business because you'll be part of Dad's company, but you never really think about doing it. You’ve been a joke this whole time. You’re nothing like me. You’ll never be good enough.”
You take the words in, letting them sink in as you have done for so many years. It’s painful, but you know how to endure it. You know how to ignore the voice inside telling you you’re not worthless, that you’re more than what he says.
But tonight, it feels heavier.
“I don’t know why Mom and Dad think you’re this perfect little angel.” You say with mockery, looking him up and down.
He laughs bitterly “Because I am perfect. I’ve done everything right. I’m successful. I’m smart. And unlike you, I know how to get what I want. They should be proud of me. But you, YN? You’re just a spoiled child who’s going to get everything handed to her. And still, you fail. You’ll never be me.”
Your fists clench at your sides, but you don't respond. Instead, you bite your lip, trying to keep your composure. The words are harsh, but you’ve heard them all before. He’s always been the same—deceptively charming and cruel when it matters most.
“Well, I’m sorry I’m not perfect like you,” You say quietly, Hongjoong's sweet words resonate in your mind “It's just… I don't want to be like you.”
Mike looks down at you with disdain, his expression unreadable for a moment before he sighs.
“Not even in your dreams could you be like me, pathetic thing.”
You can’t help the flare of anger that rises in your chest at his words, but you suppress it quickly.
Without saying another word, you turn and walk toward the stairs.
From the shadows of the hallway, Dann, who had been listening from the hallway leading to the staff rooms, feels a tightness in her chest. She’s overheard everything, and the way Mike speaks to you… it makes her happy.
Finally someone is taming you.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
The next few days feel like a strange game of charades to you, your home transformed by the presence of your brother. It’s almost like he’s a perfect guest who’s come to stay indefinitely—charming, polite, and always acting like he’s the model son.
He plays the part well, and even the staff, including Dann, are entranced by his manners and wealth. You watch it all from the sidelines, a bitter knot tightening in your chest every time her brother flashes that smile, every time your parents look at him with eyes full of admiration.
And then there’s Dann. She continues her errands around the house, doing what you ask, but now there's an air of something different. She’s captivated by Mike’s presence, stealing glances at him whenever he’s nearby.
She doesn’t know much about him, but the way he carries himself—with that effortless confidence and charm—makes her heart skip.
One afternoon, Dann is walking through the hallway, balancing a tray of snacks for you. As she turns a corner, she almost runs straight into Mike.
“Oh, I’m so sorry!” Dann stammers, gripping the tray tightly to steady it.
Mike catches the edge of the tray, steadying it with ease “No harm done,” He says with a kind smile. His eyes flick to the contents “For me?”
Dann blinks, flustered “Uh… no, for—uh—someone else.”
“Pity,” Mike teases lightly “But still, it’s impressive. Not everyone takes the time to look after others like this. What’s your name?”
“Dann,” She manages, her cheeks heating.
“Dann,” He repeats, his tone smooth, as if committing it to memory “A beautiful name for a beautiful soul.”
Her breath catches “I-I should go. This is for—”
He raises a hand, cutting her off gently “No need to rush. Take a moment to breathe. You deserve it.”
His smile deepens, and for a moment, Dann feels like she’s the only person in the room. She mutters a shy thank-you and hurries past him, her heart pounding.
Mike watches her go, his expression unreadable. Then, as he turns back toward the study, he chuckles to himself, amused by how easily people fall for a kind word and a smile.
Later, when Dann brings you the tray, Dann’s unusually quiet, and you notice her flushed cheeks and the faint smile she tries to hide.
“What’s with you?” You ask sharply, taking the tray.
“Nothing,” Dann says quickly, shaking her head.
You narrow your eyes “Let me guess—my brother said something to you?” Dann’s face goes red, betraying her “Unbelievable,” You mutter under your breath, setting the tray down “He’s not what you think, Dann.”
Dann hesitates, confused “He’s… he’s nice.”
You let out a bitter laugh “Sure, he’s nice. Keep believing that.”
Dann doesn’t respond, her mind too wrapped up in replaying Mike’s words. To her, he was kind and genuine, a stark contrast to your sharp edges.
You, watching her, feel your frustration boil over. You know your brother’s game too well, and know exactly what he’s doing. But you also know trying to warn someone like Dann would be pointless.
For now, you let it go, biting your tongue as the tension simmers beneath the surface.
✮ ⋆
The next few days, Mike couldn’t help but notice Dann more often. She moved through the house quietly, always carrying something or running an errand.
At first, he assumed she was just part of the household staff, but something about her demeanor didn’t quite fit. She seemed too young, too out of place among the polished, uniformed employees.
One afternoon, as he lounged in the garden sipping coffee, he spotted Dann hurrying across the lawn with a pile of books. He called out to her.
“Hey, Dann!”
She froze mid-step, the books wobbling precariously in her arms. Turning slowly, she offers a hesitant smile.
“Yes, sir?”
Mike winces at the formality. “No need for that. Just Mike is fine.” He gestures to a nearby chair “Come, sit for a moment. Those books won’t run away.”
Dann hesitates, glancing back toward the house “I… I really should get these to—”
“Sit,” Mike insists gently, flashing the same disarming smile he used with everyone “I’m curious about you.”
She reluctantly obeys, setting the books down on a nearby table before perching nervously on the edge of the chair.
“So, Dann,” He begins, leaning forward slightly “I’ve noticed you’re always running around doing things. Are you part of the staff here?”
Dann’s eyes widen “No! I mean—” She fidgeted with her hands “I’m not a staff. I’m… I’m the maid’s daughter.”
“The maid’s daughter?” He echoes, raising a brow. He studies her closely, sensing there is more to the story “Then why are you always doing errands?”
Dann hesitates, clearly uncomfortable. Finally, she sighs, her shoulders slumping. She doesn't think anything will happen if she tells him, he is very kind and understanding.
“It’s because of miss YN.”
“Miss YN?” He repeats with mock.
“She… she ordered me to work for her,” Dann admits, her voice dropping to a whisper. “At a party I accidentally spilled my drink on her dress...”
Mike tilts his head, his smile fading slightly “She ordered you to work for her? What dress?”
“It's a pretty expensive one… I heard her mention something like Chanel.” She explains quickly “She told me to choose between paying for the cost of the dress with money or with small tasks. I don't have the money to pay for the dress, so I’ve been helping her out with errands.”
Mike leans back in his chair, processing this information. A slow smile spread across his face, though there was a flicker of something darker in his eyes.
“So, let me get this straight. YN, my little sister, is making you work off the cost of a dress?” Dann nods, glancing down at her hands. Mike lets out a soft laugh, shaking his head “How long have you worked for her?”
“Maybe, a month ago.”
“Well, Dann, you’ve given me a lot to think about.” Before she can respond, he stands, brushing invisible lint from his pants “Better get back to your books. Wouldn’t want YN to get upset.”
Dann nods quickly, standing to retrieve the books. As she hurries away, Mike watches her go, his expression unreadable.
“Interesting,” He murmurs to himself, a sly grin tugging at the corner of his mouth.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
The grand dining room gleamed with elegance, the long table lined with intricate floral arrangements and flickering candlelight. You sit at one end, your mother to your left, and Mike across from you. Your father presides at the head of the table, quietly savoring his wine.
In the shadows of the kitchen doorway, part of the chef’s staff, is there observing the scene as the family begin their meal.
“Sweetie, When will Hongjoong come? It's been more than a week since I saw him.” She smiles kindly while sipping from her cup “Such a lovely boy.”
You smile at the mention of the guy who has been occupying your thoughts lately.
"Tomorrow we have to do an essay for business management class, so he is coming."
Your mom claps her hands with enthusiasm "Amazing! I would love to say hello."
You laugh a little at her sigh, it seems that she likes it more than you would like to admit.
Mike raises an eyebrow in confusion, who the fuck are they talking about?
“Who’s Hongjoong?”
“YN’s close friend. He’s been here many times.” Your mom responds right away “He’s polite, respectful, and always so helpful. And he’s clever, too. I remember when they were working on that literature project. He explained everything to me when I asked.”
Mike smiles mockingly, doing a project together? You, working with someone... It's silly, to Mike this sounds like you taking advantage of a nerd. But his mother is a ray of light, she has no idea.
“I'm sure it's your personal nerd, doing your homework and that, right?”
And he's all right, but that was before everything you went through together during this time.
“Of course not.”
Mike leans back, grinning “No? So why does he always do work with you? Don't you have more friends who want to do projects with you?”
Your mother gets a little upset hearing that “That’s enough, Mike. Hongjoong is a good influence on YN. You could stand to meet him before passing judgment.”
“Oh, I’m sure he’s delightful. Just the kind of guy to fit right in at the nerd club.”
“Son, that’s enough. You haven’t even met the boy. Give him a chance before making assumptions.” This time your father says.
“Whatever. But I’m curious… What is his last name? Is his family part of a company or why are you defending him so much?" He asks with mockery.
You glare at him, your jaw clenches “That doesn't matter Mike, don't meddle in my business.”
“Mike, that's enough. I'm not going to allow you to talk like that about a boy as cute as Hongjoong." For the first time your mother speaks seriously to him.
“Sure…”
“Let's change the subject. Mike, you have to prepare your speech when you take your position at the company. The party will take place next week.” Then he looks at you, "You can invite Hongjoong and your other friends, my dear."
You nod while your mother applauds happily again, but Mike only rolls his eyes.
“Instead of focusing on your ‘friends’, you should catch up with college.”
“Mike.” Your father warns him.
“Also, what about that girl running up and down like her personal servant?” He asks with false curiosity.
Your father clears his throat, his gaze landing on Mike “Dann working for YN was agreed upon by us. She’s working for her to settle her debt. There’s nothing more to discuss.”
“Agreed upon by you, maybe,” Your mother interjects, her voice softer but laced with unease. She doesn’t look up, carefully slicing her steak as if her plate demands all her attention “I still think it’s a bit... unorthodox, forcing a young girl into such an arrangement. Just an apology and letting it go would’ve been more appropriate.”
Your father frowns “And what about the consequences of such acts, my love? This way, everyone benefits. Dann gets experience, YN gets help, and the debt is paid.”
Mike’s smirk widens as he watches the exchange, clearly enjoying the tension.
“Experience, huh? Interesting choice of words for running errands and taking verbal beatings.”
“Mike, don’t say that!” Your mother snaps, finally looking up “The staff could misunderstand it.” She murmurs with panic.
“What?” He holds up his hands, feigning innocence “I’m just saying, let’s not sugarcoat it. We all know YN isn’t exactly... sweet.”
You grip your fork tightly, the metal digging into your palm “Just shut your mouth and eat, Mike. Nobody asked for your opinion.”
“YN,” Your father warns, his tone sharp.
Mike chuckles, ignoring him “See, little Dann must be so scared of her.”
Your mother sighs heavily, setting down her knife and fork “Enough of this. We’re not discussing Dann or her situation any further. It’s settled.”
But the older son isn’t done. He leans forward, resting his elbows on the table, his gaze locking with yours.
“You should be careful, YN. People like Dann have limits. Push her too far, and she might push back. Harder than you expect.”
The words hang in the air, and for a moment, the table falls silent. Your father glares at Mike, but he doesn’t say anything. Your mother busies herself with her glass of wine, avoiding your gaze.
You stand abruptly, your chair scraping against the floor “If we’re done with this delightful family bonding session, I’ll be going now.”
As you leave the dining room, your mother’s voice follows you, tired and resigned “Sweetie, wait—”
But you don’t stop. Mike’s words echo in your mind, and for the first time, you wonder if there’s truth in them.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
“Hongjoong!”
Your mother’s enthusiastic voice fills the grand hallway as the front door swings open to reveal Homgjoong, standing there with his usual boyish grin.
“Good afternoon, Mrs. Clarke!” He says, matching her energy. His warm tone makes her giggle in delight.
“She’s upstairs,” Your mother replies, stepping aside to let him in “She mentioned something about working on an essay. You two have been quite busy with school, haven’t you?”
He nods, the picture of politeness “Yes, ma’am. Lots of group projects lately.”
From the top of the grand staircase, Mike’s deep voice cuts through the air like a blade.
“Is this him?” His gaze analyze Hongjoong up and down. His outfit was very different from what Mike expected from a nerd.
Of course the glasses scream ‘nerd’ in all the letters, but the denim jacket over a gray turtleneck shirt with an abstract print, black cargo pants, a gray beanie on his head, and a black crossbody bag complete the look…
Mike didn't know that nerds had evolved during these three years, that now they can mix with others and you wouldn't know they’re a freak..
Hongjoong’s gaze snaps upward, and your brother appears, descending the staircase with a calm but predatory aura. His tailored suit and sharp features radiate authority, the kind that seems designed to make people feel small.
“Yes, this is Hongjoong,” Your mother chimes in, her cheerful tone unwavering.
Hongjoong extends a hand, smiling “Nice to meet you.”
Mike eyes the hand for a moment before taking it. His grip is firm—calculated, even.
“So, you’re the charity case,” He says smoothly, his words laced with a thinly veiled insult.
Hongjoong’s smile falters slightly, but he quickly recovers “I guess you could say I’m lucky to have YN as a friend.”
Mike raises an eyebrow, his lips curving into a smirk “Friend?”
The tension is palpable, but before it can escalate, your mother interjects “Mike, be nice. Hongjoong is here to help your sister with schoolwork. Don’t scare him off.”
“Wouldn’t dream of it,” Mike replies, though the gleam in his eyes suggests otherwise.
Just then, you appear at the top of the staircase, dressed casually but impeccably as always.
“Joong,” You call, your voice warm, though your eyes flick to Mike in a silent warning.
Hongjoong visibly relaxes at the sight of you “Hey, YN.”
You make your way down, shooting a quick glare at your brother before slipping your arm through Hongjoong’s.
“We’ll be in the study room.” You say pointedly, guiding him away.
Mike watches the two of you go, a bemused expression on his face.
✮ ⋆
The study is bathed in the soft afternoon light streaming through the large windows. Papers and books are spread across the table, though most of it remains untouched.
Hongjoong sits comfortably in the large red sofa, pen twirling absentmindedly between his fingers as he watches you pace the room, clearly distracted.
“Are we actually going to work on this essay,” He teases lightly, “Or are you going to wear a hole in the floor?”
You pause mid-step, shooting him a mock glare “Excuse me for needing to think while I walk.”
Hongjoong chuckles, setting his pen down “Thinking about the essay, or something else?”
You sigh and drop into the seat opposite him “Both, maybe.”
For a moment, there’s silence as you both glance at the notes in front of you. Hongjoong flips through the pages absentmindedly before he leans back and studies you.
“You know,” He starts “This is kind of funny.”
“Uh?”
He smirks “The fact that we’re doing an essay on entrepreneurship, and I remember you telling my parents you’re studying business just because it’s a common choice in your family.”
You blink, caught off guard “You remember that?”
“Of course I do,” He says, his tone softening “It was hard to miss how uncomfortable you looked when they asked about it.”
“I wasn’t uncomfortable.” You lie, crossing your arms.
Hongjoong tilts his head, giving you a knowing look “Pretty…”
You sigh, dropping the act “Fine. I was uncomfortable. Happy?”
He leans forward, resting his elbows on the table “Not really. I mean, it’s not every day you see Miss pretty YN Clarke—queen bee of the school—looking out of her element. What was that about, anyway?”
You hesitate, your gaze dropping to the notebook in front of you. After a long pause, you speak, your voice quieter than usual.
“I didn’t choose to study business. My parents chose for me.”
He blinks, taken aback “Seriously? But I thought you—”
“Thought I was passionate about business?” You interrupt with a bitter laugh “No. I wanted to study fashion design.”
“Fashion design?” Hongjoong’s eyebrows shot up, his curiosity piqued “You? The future CEO of Clarke Enterprises wanted to design clothes?”
And he can see your potential. You have impeccable taste in fashion, not just in the way you always dress, but also in how you can identify others' styles just by looking at them. And he’s a witness to it—whenever he went shopping with you, you always picked things that matched the style he chose after his research on the subject. Your sense of fashion was enviable.
“Laugh it up,” You mutter, though there’s no heat in your tone.
“I’m not laughing,” Hongjoong assures you. “I’m just surprised. You’ve never mentioned this before.”
“Why would I?” You snap, but your irritation isn’t directed at him “It’s not like it matters. My parents made it clear that ‘passion projects’ don’t pay the bills. Clarke family members study business. That’s just how it is.”
Hongjoong frowns, the playful glint in his eyes replaced by concern. “That doesn’t sound fair.”
You shrug, forcing a nonchalant tone. “Life isn’t fair, Joong. Besides, it’s not like I had a choice. My father practically enrolled me himself. My mother didn’t say much, but she didn’t exactly fight for me, either.”
He watches you carefully, his brows furrowed “Do you... regret it?”
“Every day,” You admit quietly “But regret doesn’t change anything. My life’s been mapped out for me since the day I was born. I just… deal with it.”
The silence that follows feels heavy, and for a moment, neither of you knows what to say. Finally, Hongjoong breaks it.
“YN… you don’t have to be what they want you to be.”
You scoff, though his sincerity tugs at something deep inside you “You don’t get it, my family isn’t like yours. I can’t just decide to go against them and do what I want. It’s not that simple.”
Hongjoong leans forward, his voice steady and kind “Maybe it’s not simple. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.”
You look at him, surprised by the determination in his eyes “Why do you care so much, anyway?”
“Because I hate seeing you like this,” He admits “You’re always so confident, so in control. But when you talk about this, it’s like… you’re not yourself.”
You swallow hard, his words hitting closer to home than you’d like to admit.
“I’m just saying,” He continues, his tone gentler now “if you ever want to talk about it, or, you know, vent or anything, I’m here.”
A small, genuine smile tugs at the corner of your lips.
“Thanks, Joongie.”
“Anytime,” He says with a grin. Then, with a playful tone, he adds “Now, can we actually write this essay? Because I’m not about to fail this class just because my partner has a secret dream of designing couture.”
You roll your eyes, but for the first time that day, you feel a little lighter “Fine. Let’s get to work.”
As the two of you finally turn your attention to the assignment, you can’t help but glance at Hongjoong. For all his flaws, he has a way of making you feel like, just maybe, you don’t have to be alone in this.
And that makes you feel happy and secure.
A couple of minutes later—ten minutes to be exact— starting the draft of your essays, you and Hongjoong are supposedly working, but your proximity makes it clear that focus is not the priority. Papers and pens are scattered across the desk, completely forgotten.
You start talking about other stuff until you settle yourself on his lap, and his hands resting on your thighs as he gazes up at you, clearly captivated.
“You really shouldn’t let him get to you.” Hongjoong says softly, his voice tinged with concern.
Once again the topic of your annoying brother.
You smirk, trailing a finger along his jawline “Mike gets to everyone. It’s his specialty.”
Hongjoong’s hand tightens slightly on your leg “Well, not to me.”
You lean closer, your faces mere inches apart “Good.” You whisper before kissing him.
The moment is charged, but neither of you notices the shadow just outside the door.
Dann stands there, hidden in the hallway, her heart sinking as she watches the scene unfold. Your laughter, Hongjoong’s rapt attention—every detail feels like a dagger to her chest.
Her grip on the doorframe tightens as she fights back tears, her mind racing with anger and jealousy.
As you pull back slightly, your fingers lingering on Hongjoong’s jawline, he gazes up at you with a rare softness. The silence stretches between you, not awkward but charged with unspoken words.
“Pretty,” He begins, his voice a little hoarse as if gathering courage.
You tilt your head, teasingly brushing a strand of his hair back “What is it, nerd?”
Hongjoong chuckles softly, but the sound is nervous. He looks away for a moment, his thumb absently tracing small circles on your thigh.
“I was thinking... Maybe we could go out this weekend. Like, just us. A real date.”
Your breath hitches, though you manage to keep your expression neutral. A date. The word sets off a flutter in your chest that you quickly smother. You can’t let yourself feel this way—not for him.
He’s sweet, in a way that disarms you. And yes, there’s something undeniably magnetic about the way he looks at you, like you’re the only thing in the world that matters.
But there’s also a voice in the back of your mind, sharp and cynical, whispering warnings.
What if he’s just like everyone else? What if he’s only here because being with you makes him feel important?
You’ve seen it before—the fake smiles, the shallow affections of people who only want something from you. It’s always been easier to keep your guard up, to let the world think you’re untouchable.
Still, as you look at him now, with his nervous grin and earnest eyes, a part of you wonders if Hongjoong is different.
“A date, huh?” You echo, a playful smirk tugging at your lips “Are you asking me out, Joongie?”
His grip on your leg tightens ever so slightly as he nods “Yeah, I guess I am.”
You tilt your head, studying him, trying to find some crack in his sincerity. But there’s none. He’s genuine—almost painfully so.
“Alright, you’ve got yourself a date.” Your tone is flippant, casual, as if it doesn’t matter. But the faint blush creeping up your cheeks betrays you.
Outside the door, Dann halts mid-step. She had intended to leave, to distance herself from the painful scene, but Hongjoong’s words froze her in place.
A date.
Her breathing stops, and her mind reels, repeating every look, every silly smile he used to give you every time you passed by his friends' table, even before he sat down with your ridiculous social group, and she can't deny how much Hongjoong likes you, even now.
Dann had told herself that he didn’t really mean it, that he was just infatuated, that you didn’t deserve him. But hearing him now, so sincere, so devoted—it feels like a knife twisting deeper into her chest.
She takes a shaky step back, her vision blurring with tears. Her mind is a storm of anger, heartbreak, and self-loathing.
Why her? Why not me?
Dann quietly slips away, her steps quick and silent. But her expression hardens with every step she takes. If there was any doubt before, it’s gone now—she won’t let you keep humiliating her.
Dann rushes down the hallway, her chest tight and her mind swirling with emotion. She doesn’t even notice Mike leaning against the wall near the corner, arms crossed, a knowing smirk playing on his lips.
“Well, well,” He drawls, his smooth voice stopping her in her tracks “What’s got you running off in tears, Cinderella?”
Dann stiffens, quickly wiping at her eyes and turning to face him “Nothing. It’s nothing.”
Mike raises an eyebrow, his sharp gaze flicking to the study door she just fled from. His curiosity piqued, he steps past her without another word.
Dann doesn’t try to stop him, her head hanging as shame and frustration bubble within her.
Quietly, Mike approaches the slightly ajar study door. His keen eyes take in the scene inside:
YN, sitting on the nerd's lap, whose hands rest possessively on her thighs as they kiss.
Your closeness, the intimate way your fingers trail along Hongjoong’s hair, makes Mike’s smirk widen.
He glances back at Dann, who’s standing frozen in the hallway, her shoulders tense. His mind pieces the puzzle together.
Dann’s crushed expression, your little display with the nerd in his designer clothes, that obviously, Mike knows that you bought for him, and the underlying tension he’s noticed between the two girls.
A cruel but amused thought settles in his mind. Of course, you're using that poor guy to hurt Dann. Classic YN. It’s vicious, but… beautifully done.
Pushing the door slightly closed so you and Hongjoong remain unaware, Mike strides back to Dann. He tilts his head, studying her, his tone feigning concern.
“Looks like my sister is having quite the fun time in there, doesn’t it?” He says casually.
Dann’s head snaps up, her wide eyes filled with panic. “You—you saw?”
Mike shrugs, his smirk softening into something almost comforting.
“It’s hard to miss, really. She does know how to put on a show.” He pauses, letting his words sink in before stepping closer “You like him, don’t you?”
Dann’s face burns, and she quickly shakes her head “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“Come on, Dann. Don’t insult me by lying,” He says smoothly, his voice low and persuasive. “You like that nerd, it’s written all over your face. You’re smitten, and YN? Well, she knows it. And judging by what I just saw, she’s enjoying rubbing it in.”
Dann’s lips tremble, but she says nothing. The truth in his words stings too much to deny.
Mike’s expression shifts, his voice softening. “It’s cruel, isn’t it? After everything you’ve done for her, she still treats you like this. Like a pawn in her little games.”
Dann bites her lip, her anger and hurt bubbling to the surface “Why are you telling me this? What do you want?”
He chuckles, shaking his head. “What I want is irrelevant. What you want, though… That’s what matters, doesn’t it?” He steps even closer, his tone conspiratorial “You want to stop her, don’t you? Make her see what it’s like to be humiliated, to lose everything she holds dear.”
Dann looks at him, her eyes narrowing “Why would you care? She’s your sister.”
Mike smirks again, his gaze hard. “Oh, I care, Dann. But not in the way you think. YN’s gotten away with far too much for far too long. It’s time she learns that actions have consequences. And I think you and I? We can make that happen.”
Dann hesitates, her emotions warring within her. Mike leans in slightly, his voice dropping to a near whisper.
“Think about it, Dann. Do you really want to keep being her servant, watching her parade around with him, knowing she’s using you? Or do you want to take back some control?” He pulls back, straightening his tie as if the conversation is no more than business.
“The choice is yours. But if you’re tired of being her shadow… You know where to find me.”
With that, he turns and walks away, leaving Dann standing there, her heart pounding and her thoughts racing.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
Dann sits at the back of the school library, nervously twisting the strap of her bag. The place is nearly deserted, the only sounds are the faint hum of the air conditioning and the occasional rustle of a page turning.
She checks her phone for the third time, anxiously glancing at the clock.
Finally, Seonghwa strides in, his usual air of confidence intact. Spotting her, he saunters over, dropping into the chair across from her.
“You’re lucky I don’t hate this place,” He mutters, propping his chin on his hand “Now, what’s so urgent?”
Dann hesitates, her gaze darting around to ensure no one’s within earshot “It’s about Mike.”
Seonghwa’s brow furrows slightly, but he maintains his calm demeanor.
“What about him?”
Dann leans closer, lowering her voice. “He… approached me yesterday. After YN and Hongjoong—” Her voice falters, and she shakes her head, willing herself to stay focused “He saw me upset and, um, he offered me a deal.”
Hwa’s eyes narrow, and for a moment, there’s an unreadable flicker in his expression.
“A deal?”
Dann nods quickly “He said he knows YN’s been using Hongjoong to hurt me, and he wants to help me… to bring her down.”
A smirk slowly spreads across Hwa’s face, but there’s a calculating glint in his eyes.
“Well, isn’t that interesting?”
“I don’t know what to do,” Dann admits, her voice shaking slightly. “I mean, I hate YN for everything she’s done, and he’s kind. I trust him, but I don’t know…”
“Well, you shouldn’t trust him,” Seonghwa says bluntly “Mike’s not the kind of guy who does anything out of the goodness of his heart. He’ll want something in return, probably something you’re not ready to give.”
Dann bites her lip, her uncertainty clear. His words sound similar to what you told her days ago.
'He's not what you think, Dann.'
“Then what do I do? If I say no, he’ll probably find another way to mess with her. But if I say yes…”
Hwa leans back in his chair, his smirk growing. “You'll say yes.”
“What?” Dann looks at him in shock.
“Think about it,” Hwa says smoothly. “This is an opportunity. Mike’s already got a grudge against YN, and he’s offering you a chance to take her down. Why waste that?”
“But…” Dann hesitates. “He’ll know I’m working with him. He might use me, too.”
Hwa leans forward, his voice low and firm. “That’s where I come in. You agree to his deal, play along with whatever he asks, but you don’t let him know about me. I’ll guide you from the sidelines, help you navigate whatever mess he pulls you into.”
Dann looks at him uncertainty “Why do you want to stay hidden? You and Mike… You know each other, don’t you?”
Hwa’s smirk fades slightly, replaced by a more serious expression.
“Our families are close. Too close. If he knows I’m involved, it’ll complicate things. And trust me, you don’t want him digging into your allies.”
Dann frowns, still unsure “So, I’m supposed to be his pawn, but secretly working for you?”
Seonghwa nods “Exactly. Let him think he’s in control, but we’ll be the ones pulling the strings.” He leans back again, his smirk returning. “And when the time comes, we’ll let the golden boy deal with his sister, then make sure he doesn’t come out unscathed, either.”
Dann hesitates for a moment longer before finally nodding.
“Okay… I’ll do it.”
“Good girl,” Hwa says with a grin “Just remember, no matter what Mike says or does, you keep me out of it. Understood?”
“Understood,” Dann says quietly, her resolve hardening.
As Seonghwa gets up to leave, he gives her a final glance.
“Don’t let him intimidate you, Dann. You’re stronger than you think. And with me in your corner, YN won’t stand a chance.”
Dann watches him walk away, her heart pounding. She feels a flicker of hope, but it’s laced with fear.
She’s stepping into dangerous territory, and she knows there’s no turning back now.
✮ ⋆
The evening air feels heavier as Dann makes her way to the agreed meeting spot. Seonghwa’s proposition lingers in her mind, but now, standing face-to-face with Mike, your seemingly perfect older brother, she feels a renewed sense of purpose.
“You’re late.” He remarks, his tone sharp and businesslike.
His piercing gaze studies her, assessing her worth as an ally. Dann crosses her arms defensively.
“I’m here, aren’t I?”
Mike smirks faintly, leaning back against the wall “Fair enough. So, you’ve decided to take me up on my offer. Good. Let’s not waste time—tell me everything you know about YN and this… Hongjoong guy.”
Dann hesitates, a flicker of doubt crossing her face. Is she really doing this? Betraying her values?
But then she recalls the laughter, the dismissive looks, and the countless times you made her feel small.
Her jaw tightens “Hongjoong used to be normal,” She begins, her voice steady but bitter “He had his own friends. He was part of that freak crowd. Good grades, nothing special. Just a regular guy trying to get by.”
Mike arches an eyebrow, intrigued “And now?”
“Now?” Dann scoffs, bitterness seeping into her tone “Now, he’s your sister’s lapdog. But before that, he was part of the ‘slaves’—as your sister and her friends called them. The kids who did their homework, their projects, whatever they didn’t feel like doing themselves.”
A flicker of surprise crosses Mike’s face, though he quickly masks it.
“Go on.”
“YN and her crew, they humiliated him. Constantly. He was a joke to them. They used him, mocked him, and then, one day, out of nowhere, YN decides he’s worthy of her attention. He just… sat with her at lunch one day, like it was the most normal thing in the world. After that, he started hanging out with them, ditching his old friends. Forgot about them completely.”
Mike’s expression hardens as he listens. He processes the information quickly, the gears in his mind already turning.
“So, you’re saying she picked him up like a… project?”
Dann nods “That’s exactly what it looks like. But the weird part is… he doesn’t seem to mind. If anything, he’s completely loyal to her. It’s like she has him wrapped around her finger.”
The older man chuckles darkly, his smile cold “That sounds like my little sister, all right. Always taking what she wants without a second thought.”
Dann swallows hard, her hands clenching into fists “She doesn’t deserve him. And he doesn’t deserve to just… get away with forgetting where he came from.”
Mike leans forward, his voice low and commanding “You’re absolutely right. That’s why we’re going to remind him—and her—that actions have consequences. But I need more. Details, patterns, vulnerabilities. I want to know everything she’s hiding.”
Dann hesitates, her mind flicking briefly to Seonghwa’s warning not to involve him. She decides to steer clear of mentioning her.
“The others, Mindy, Mingi, San, and Wooyoung, they’re all in her circle, part of the same game. They cover for her, laugh at her jokes, make sure no one crosses her. They’re as bad as she is, if not worse.”
Mike nods slowly. He knows all of your friends, but where is little Park Seonghwa? You used to be inseparable.
His expression is one of calculated determination “Good. That’s a start. Keep watching, keep listening. I want updates on every little thing. The more I know, the easier it’ll be to tear her down.”
Dann feels a chill run through her as she realizes just how serious Mike is. But she doesn’t back down. Dann bites her lip, glancing at him.
“There’s something else—something about Hongjoong.” His eyebrows lift slightly, urging her to continue “He… he always feels like he has to stay on YN’s good side,” She says slowly, her voice tinged with both resentment and a hint of sadness “Even when she’s wrong, even when she’s downright cruel.”
Mike narrows his eyes “What do you mean?”
Dann looks away, the memory of that day in the cafeteria flooding back “There was this one time. It wasn’t long after he started sitting with her, maybe a couple of weeks. YN was in one of her moods, and she was picking on me—making me carry her bag, fetch her coffee, stupid stuff like that.” Her voice trembles slightly, but she forces herself to keep going. “Hongjoong... He didn’t say a word.”
“Typical YN. But Hongjoong? That doesn’t sound like the hero type you’re making him out to be.”
“That’s the thing,” Dann says bitterly. “He’s not. Not really. He just… stood there, watching, like he didn’t want to risk making her angry.” She pauses, swallowing the lump in her throat. “But one day in the cafeteria, something happened. YN took it too far.”
“What did she do?” He asks, his tone colder now.
“I dropped her drink over her purse, Mindy made me get on my knees and beg YN's forgiveness...” Dann says quietly, her cheeks flushing with humiliation even at the memory. “And when I refused, YN stepped on my hand mercilessly. Everyone was laughing, pointing, but Hongjoong defended me… he told her to stop, and after he went after me.”
Mike tilts his head, intrigued “He stood up to her?”
“For a moment,” Dann says with a dry laugh “But you know what happened after that? She ignored him. For days. Didn’t talk to him, didn’t look at him. And Hongjoong? He couldn’t handle it. After a few days…. He apologized to her. For defending me that day in the cafeteria.” Dann says softly, bitterness slipping into her tone.
He arches an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued “And how do you know that?”
Her cheeks flush, and she looks away, remembering the explicit scene she saw that night, debating whether to answer.
“Because… I saw them.” She mutters.
“Saw them?” He presses, leaning forward slightly.
“At Wooyoung’s party,” Dann explains, her voice shaking, “They went upstairs together. I—I didn’t see everything, but when they came back, YN looked… satisfied. And Hongjoong looked…”
Her voice trails off, the implications hanging in the air. Mike’s lips twitch into a smirk, the pieces clicking together in his mind.
“Ah,” He drawls, a hint of amusement in his tone “So that’s how he managed to crawl his way into her good graces again.”
Dann bites her lip but says nothing, her face burning with a mix of shame and jealousy.
Mike chuckles, crossing his arms “Poor little Hongjoong. He’s so desperate to stay on YN’s good side, he’ll do whatever it takes, won’t he?” His smirk grows wider, more cruel “I’m almost impressed. Almost.” Dann looks down at her hands, refusing to meet his gaze “Sounds like he’s more afraid of being cast out than he is of losing his integrity. That’s good to know.”
Dann looks at him, frowning slightly “What do you mean?”
“I mean, that we can use that. If Hongjoong’s loyalty to YN is built on fear of losing her approval, it’s only a matter of time before he breaks.” He steps closer, his voice dropping to a near-whisper “People like that are easy to manipulate. You just have to know where to push.”
Dann hesitates, her gaze darting to the floor before meeting Mike’s calculating eyes.
“There’s one more thing,” She says cautiously.
“Go on.”
“Hongjoong… he asked YN out on a date,” Dann reveals, bitterness lacing her tone “I don’t know when or where, but he did.”
Mike’s expression darkens, a smirk curling at his lips.
“Now he’s inviting her on dates, playing the doting ‘boyfriend’ while she pulls the strings. It’s almost… poetic.” He leans forward again, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper “You know this fairytale won’t last, right? Once the thrill of the game wears off, they’ll both be exactly where they belong—crumbling.”
Unknown to Dann or Mike, you have just rounded the corner, your footsteps halting as you overhears your brother’s mocking voice. You step back into the shadows, your breath catching in your throat.
How does he know about the date?
Your stomach churns. You are drawn to Hongjoong—his warmth, his loyalty, the way he looks at you like you’re the center of the universe—but you can’t bring yourself to admit it.
Pride keeps your walls up, but fear builds them higher.
Fear that Hongjoong’s interest is just another way to climb to the top, that he’s using you like everyone else in your life seems to.
You clench your fists, forcing yourself to keep listening as Mike chuckles darkly.
“Well,” He continues, leaning back against the wall “Let them have their little fairytale moment. Let them hold hands, kiss under the stars, and pretend it’s all perfect.” He pauses, his smirk turning cruel “Because once it ends—and it will end—it’s going to crash down so hard they won’t know what hit them.”
You feel your chest tighten, your brother’s words hitting a nerve you didn’t even realize was raw. You press your back against the wall, your breathing shallow as you fight the urge to burst in and confront them.
Instead, you slip away quietly, mind a whirlwind of thoughts. Hongjoong asked you out…
But what if Mike’s right? What if it’s all just a game to him?
The idea sends a pang of vulnerability through your chest, one of you quickly smothering with anger.
No one uses you, you think fiercely, even as your heart betrays you with the smallest flicker of hope.
As you leave, Dann and Mike have done their chant. As Dann turns to leave, Mike’s voice stops her.
“Oh, and Dann,” He says, his tone almost casual but laced with menace “If you try to cross me or withhold anything… you’ll regret it.”
Dann doesn’t respond. She just walks away, her heart pounding in her chest.
She’s in too deep now, and there’s no turning back.
✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩
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