Sometimes You Gotta Do What You Gotta Do

You specifically checked before coming to this party—Jaehyun was supposed to be visiting his parents.

“What the hell is he doing here?” you hiss at Johnny, grabbing his arm.

“Ow—” Johnny follows your line of sight. “Oh, right. His parents canceled, so he skipped the trip. My bad, maybe I forgot to mention?”

“Forgot? Seriously, Johnny?” You pinch him hard.

“Anyway,” he says, brushing it off, “aren’t you seeing Lucas right now?”

You stammer. “Uh, yeah. I mean, no. He’s heading back to Hong Kong—long-distance? Not my thing.”

The last time you and Jaehyun broke it off, it felt… final. Like, no casual makeups this time, no easy resets. It was all or nothing—building a future together or walking away for good. And guess what? Option two won. But even though you knew you’d run into him again, some kind of heads-up would’ve been nice, y’know? A little mental prep.

You hug the wall, sliding toward the kitchen. Grabbing your glass, you spin around—and there he is, catching your eye from the hallway. How long has he been watching you? His gaze, those piercing eyes—it’s like they burn straight into your chest. You quickly look away, pretending you didn’t notice, but your heart’s racing. Seeing Jaehyun again stirs something deep, something warm, something dangerously familiar.

You spend the rest of the evening holed up in the kitchen, clinging to the safety of Ten, Yangyang, and Kun’s hilarious banter. For a while, it works—the knot in your stomach loosens, and you almost forget Jaehyun’s here.

But then you see him. Leaning against the doorway, arms crossed, watching you. His lips curve into a knowing smile—because of course you’re making him laugh. You always do.

God, that smile. You missed it. For a second, you can’t help but mirror it, a tiny grin sneaking onto your face. You shrug like, What can I say? I’m naturally hilarious.

He hesitates, then starts toward you as the spot next to you opens up. Every step seems calculated, deliberate.

“You’re still the same clown, huh?”

“What can I say?” You flash a smirk. “Old habits die hard.”

You both start with small talk—classic avoidance of the giant emotional elephant in the room. You laugh at everything he says, a laugh that’s just a little too nervous. He doesn’t take his eyes off you, studying your face like it’s a map he’s trying to remember. Every curve, every line—he’s looking for signs of change since the last time he saw you.

You think to yourself: He hasn’t changed. Same calm, detached vibe, like he’s carrying the world on his shoulders but pretending it’s no big deal. But his eyes? Oh, they’re a whole other story. They give away what his words never will.

Meanwhile, he’s thinking about how different you seem. A little colder, maybe. But that spark in your eyes? It’s still there, and it could still destroy him if he’s not careful.

The silence that falls between you is loaded. Your eyes meet, and honestly? Words are unnecessary. Your history is in the room with you—your love, your heartbreak, all the messy, raw intensity of it. It floods the space, making it hard to breathe.

You remember the nights you spent talking until the sun came up, building this fragile, glowing little world for just the two of you. And the crushing disappointment when you hit that same wall over and over again—Jaehyun’s habit of running the second things got too real.

He remembers the fights where words were weapons, and the way he couldn’t stop himself from ruining everything good. He remembers you walking out for the last time, leaving him alone in an apartment that suddenly felt way too big.

He tilts his head, breaking the silence. “Wanna get out of here?”

You nod, and he leads the way, weaving through the crowded living room. He grabs your hand to guide you, and the feeling of his fingers laced with yours sends a shiver down your spine. Like your whole body remembers him in a way your mind’s trying to forget.

At the door, he picks up his jacket and drapes it over your shoulders. His Ford Mustang II King Cobra is parked outside—brown, classic, and way too familiar.

Sliding into the passenger seat, you feel a wave of déjà vu so strong it nearly knocks the breath out of you. The music hums softly in the background as the car starts, and you stare out the window at the passing lights, wondering if following him was a mistake. You can’t bring yourself to look at him. A black lock falls over his eyes, his long lashes fluttering to shake it off. His face is flawless, he’s the kind of guy that’s hard to look at without wanting to taste him.

“So… you seeing anyone?” Jaehyun’s voice cuts through the silence.

You smirk, not buying his casual tone. “Is that a question, or are you fishing for confirmation?”

He clicks his tongue, letting out a low laugh. Leaning one arm against the open window, he runs his fingers through his hair in mock exasperation. The thought of you with someone else? It’s enough to make him sick. He can’t focus on the road; he’s too busy stealing glances at you. The wind gently ruffles his hair, a few more strands falling over his eyes, you can see the muscles in his neck tense up. Jeong, why the hell are you so hot? You dream of diving into the back of his neck and devouring him with kisses. But he's not yours anymore.

“Word on the street says you’re seeing other girls too,” you fire back, throwing in a little jab.

His laugh is sharp and sarcastic. “Oh, so you’re confirming then? - A couple of lame setups from Doyoung. Nothing worth mentioning.”

His hands tighten on the steering wheel. That godamn hands that have sent you to heaven so many times. “Can’t stop thinking ‘bout you and I.” His voice drops to a murmur, the words barely audible.

You pretend not to hear him, staring out the window, trying to avoid your desire. He knows the way to your place by heart.

When you arrive, he steps out of the car at the same time as you. You raise an eyebrow.

“Smoke?”

You nod. “Sure.”

Leaning against the hood of the car, Jaehyun lights your cigarette, his eyes never leaving yours. It’s like you can hear his thoughts, feel his emotions radiating off him. He looks away, gazing into the distance.

He’s tried to forget you, to fill the emptiness with other faces. But none of them shine like you. You’re etched into him, a scar that refuses to fade.

And you? You tried to move on, but the silence he left behind was louder than his presence ever was.

“I thought you quit,” you say, your tone teasing.

He chuckles, the cigarette dangling from his lips. “I did.”

You snort, gesturing to the smoke curling in the air. “Sure looks like it.” 

“Guess old habits die hard.”

You smirk. “Tragic loss for the Olympics. Michael Phelps can rest easy.”

“Hmm, truly devastating for the world of sports.”

He exhales, the smoke curling lazily in the air. “This was our thing, y’know? Sneaking off to smoke at every party, everytime we were together. It’s a bad habit, but it’s ours. Guess I’m scared to change that.”

You glance at him, your voice quieter. “Some things just stick with you, no matter how much you try to shake them.”

He leans in, his face close enough that you can feel his breath. “I like the things we share. Even the bad ones.”

Your heart skips a beat, and for a second, you forget. Forget that he’s not yours anymore. That you can’t just close the distance and kiss him like you used to.

You snap out of it, standing abruptly. “Thanks for the cigarette, Jeong. See you around.”

Shrugging off his jacket, you hold it out to him. He doesn’t take it right away, his gaze lingering on your hand before he finally brushes his fingers against yours, just enough to send sparks up your arm.

He smirks as he takes the jacket, and you return it with a soft smile before walking away.

Back in your apartment, your skin still tingles where he touched you. Jaehyun.

When you wake up the next morning, there’s a message waiting for you on your phone. Simple, almost cold: “Can we talk?”

You hesitate, your fingers trembling slightly over the screen. You know that replying means reopening a door you worked so hard to close. But you also know you can’t say no to him—you never could.

The two of you meet at your usual coffee shop. It’s been a while since you’ve been here. Everything looks the same, yet everything feels different.

Jaehyun is sitting there, dressed in a plain white t-shirt and blue Levi’s, paired with boots. The look is effortless, but on him, it’s like no one else could wear it better. The black of his hair contrasts so perfectly that he looks like he stepped out of an old James Dean movie. And all you can think about is how badly you want to slide your hands under that shirt.

He sees you and smiles, his eyes lighting up like he’s been waiting for this moment all night.

You know you look good—you’re wearing the black mini skirt you two bought together ages ago, and your signature crimson lipstick that drives him crazy. As you walk closer, his gaze rakes over you, devouring every detail. The flicker of excitement in your chest feels like a tiny victory.

You sit down, and the conversation starts politely, almost mechanically. Like you’re dancing an old, familiar routine. But the air between you is thick with everything unsaid—last night, the months before that—it’s too much. Too heavy for small talk.

Jaehyun finally breaks the silence, his voice quiet and unsteady, like it’s coming from somewhere deep and vulnerable.

“I always thought I’d eventually get over thinking about you. But here you are, and I’m still the same idiot who wants you more than anything. When you left, I really thought my world stopped turning. I built my life around you. It’s like you took a piece of me when you walked away, and I’ve been chasing it ever since, trying to find it in all the wrong places.”

You didn’t expect him to say this. To be this open about the pain he felt when you left—the pain he never knew how to put into words before.

You listen in silence, but the way your hands tighten around your coffee cup betrays your nerves.

Barely above a whisper, you respond, “And I thought you’d be the one I could remember without pain. But I can’t even breathe normally when you’re around. I can’t sit across from you for ten minutes without falling apart.”

The truth between you is undeniable now: you’ve always loved each other, but your love has always been poisoned by your fears and insecurities.

“I was scared,” Jaehyun admits. “Scared you’d leave for someone better. I’ve never felt like I was enough for you, like I could give you what you needed. You always seemed so sure of yourself, so put-together. And me? I was just… me. So I let you go. Cowardly, I know, but it felt easier than telling you how I felt. You told me that you love me but you never want to see me again..”

“I know,” you say softly. “And I know I’m not innocent in all this. I made you feel that way. I never trusted you, not fully. I was so sure you’d leave eventually, that you’d get scared of commitment. But in the end, I was the one who walked away. Because I felt so empty, Jae. Being with you, it started to hurt.”

Jaehyun’s voice drops lower, but there’s a determination in it now. “So what? We just let our insecurities keep running the show? Let them ruin us for good? Or do we forget all that and rebuild? I don’t want to pretend anyone else could ever be you. No one’s you.”

You look away, staring at the traffic outside the window.

It hits you—this is the exact spot where you broke up for the first time. Back in high school, when you were still kids fumbling through love and heartbreak. It feels like some kind of cruel deja vu, like the universe loves throwing you into the same cycle over and over.

And yet, a few months ago, you promised yourself something. That you’d protect yourself first, no matter what. Even if it meant walking away from love.

“Look, I know, trust me I understand, I deserve less, If I was you I wouldn't take me back. But Y/n…I don't wanna see you- I can’t see you with anyone but me. How am I supposed to accept it, I love me so much more when you’re around and I know that you do too. Us, together, is something else.”

“It just goes round and round every time. I’m done with this.” You stand to leave, the chair scraping against the floor with finality.

Before you can take another step, his hand catches your wrist.

“If you walk away again, I won’t stop you this time,” he murmurs, his voice low and trembling. “But if you stay... I promise, this time, I won’t let anything come between us. I’ll be the man you need. Someone you can trust, someone who’s by your side. Always.”

His words sound raw, almost desperate, and for a moment, you freeze.

You want to leave, but his eyes—those eyes—you’re powerless against them. The way he looks at you wraps you up, as if you’re already in his arms, as if he’s touching every part of you without even making contact.

And he’s different now. You can feel it in the way he speaks, in the way his vulnerability lays bare between you. Jaehyun looks like he’s finally grown, like he’s learned to open up in ways he couldn’t before. He’s not just asking for another chance—he’s begging to be the person you’ve always needed him to be.

So, just this once? Why not give him that chance? After everything you’ve shared, doesn’t he at least deserve that?

“Take me home,” you whisper.

His smile is immediate, radiant, and you can see the relief in his shining eyes. It feels so bittersweet—how deeply you love him, even after everything. Even after running, even after months apart, even after you tried to leave him behind. Your heart has never learned to be quiet about him, and it frustrates you to no end. He has this undeniable power over you, and you hate it almost as much as you love it.

As you step out of the coffee shop, Jaehyun pulls you to the wall outside, one arm wrapping tightly around your waist. He holds you there for a moment, looking into your eyes like he’s trying to say something his words can’t reach: This is it. This is the last time. This time, it’s forever.

And then he kisses you.

It’s deep, consuming, his velvet lips brushing against yours with an urgency that makes your knees weak. His mouth moves over yours like he’s trying to make up for all the lost time, for every second he’s gone without you. When his tongue meets yours, you let out a soft moan, your body melting into his as his hand presses against the small of your back.

No one else could ever be him. No one else could kiss you like this.

Because with Jaehyun, it’s not just a kiss—it’s everything. 

The air between you grows heavier, filled with passion and the raw intensity of everything you’ve been holding back.

“Let’s go home babe. Or I'll behave badly in public.” 

“You miss me this much ?”

“You really ask the question.” He narrows his eyes, studying you. Oh, he knows that look. You’re playing with him, and he’s more than ready to join the game.

“Why the mini skirt, then?” he asks, his voice low, teasing, as his lips curve into a smirk. “Just to torture me, huh?” He slides his hands down your hips and takes a firm grip on your butt. 

You let out a small gasp of surprise, your eyes widening for just a moment. Jaehyun’s smile grows—it’s that sound, the one he’s always loved. It tells him everything he needs to know. You haven’t gotten over him. He still has the same effect on you.

“Maybe..”

“Tell me, did you have sex with him?” You pretend not to know who he’s talking about, tilting your head slightly as you widen your eyes in mock innocence.

“Who, exactly?” you ask, your voice light and teasing, the perfect picture of feigned cluelessness.

“This Honk-Kong guy, don’t mess up with me right now.” he presses his hips against yours, you feel the bone in his jeans. 

“He never took what was yours, if that's what you're asking for”

He exhales in relief, his shoulders relaxing as his eyes light up with renewed energy. “And what’s mine?” he asks, his voice soft but laced with a quiet intensity. He needs to hear you say it, to let the words come from your lips.

You bite your lower lip, feeling your heart tighten. This guy loves you so much, you can feel it in every fiber of your being. It’s overwhelming, undeniable.

“Me.”

“So let's see, show me how much you belong to me.” He grabs your hand and pulls you along, urgency in his steps as he leads you to the car. Before you know it, you’re climbing into the backseat with him, your heart pounding in sync with his.

In one swift motion, he pulls you onto his lap, straddling him. His hands grip your waist as his lips crash against yours, this time with a wild, unrestrained intensity. The kiss is deeper, hungrier, as if he’s been holding back for far too long and can’t anymore.

“I can’t wait.” he undoes his belt and unzips his jeans.

“Someone could catch us.” You say this as you lift your skirt and take off your jacket. You burn too much for him, you can't reason with yourself.

He lifts you slightly to free his cock from his jeans. Moving your thong to the side, he aligns himself with your entrance and penetrates you in one smooth movement. You cry out as you feel the tip of it touch the bottom of your pussy. You grab his shoulders, Jaehyun is going to take the lead this time, that's for sure. His fingers dig into the flesh of your thighs. His movements are quick and dry at first, he moans at length, it's such a relief for him. “Finally home.”

Your fingers weave into his hair, wrapping a strand around them as you tighten your grip, pulling him even closer. In his arms, you feel weightless, like a doll being held with a mix of tenderness and raw intensity.

His warm breath brushes against your neck, sending shivers down your spine. And in that moment, as his touch grounds you and his presence surrounds you, it hits you—this is what home feels like. He’s your home.

You pull back slightly, just enough to look into his eyes. They’re dark, filled with lust and raw pleasure, a haze of emotion that makes your breath hitch. He looks almost dazed, like someone taking a long-awaited hit after years of restraint.

Unable to resist, you lean in and kiss him passionately, pouring everything into it. The intensity of your connection shifts something in him. His movements slow, becoming more deliberate, more intimate. It’s not just hunger anymore—it’s something deeper, something that lingers in the space between desire and devotion. You were fucking and suddenly you're making love. He intertwine his fingers with yours and caress your hips with his other hand. He can't take his eyes off you. 

“You have no idea how much I missed you,” he murmurs, his voice steady and deep, carrying the weight of all the time you’ve spent apart.

“I’m here now,” you whisper, wrapping your arms around his neck, pulling him close until your forehead rests against his.

“Don’t ever leave again,” he mumbles, his voice breaking slightly. “No matter what we go through. Never again.”

You cup his face gently, your voice soft but resolute. “I’m not going anywhere without you, Jaehyun.”

His movements are regular, and you feel his cock rubbing your walls in the same rhythm. He lightly pinches your ass and you moan. He knows you love it. He gently caress your other hole to stimulate you. You can feel your orgasm rising. He doesn't let go of your neck, which he's working hard on. You'll probably have a bruise by tonight, or several. 

You pull on his hair to signal that your climax is coming. He lifts his head to see you moaning.

“Say my name.” he murmurs.

“Jaehyun, Jaehyun, oh my god Jae yes, yes…” you shout his name until the end of your climax. He closes his eyes and enjoys the moment, his name sounding so good in your mouth.

“Yeah baby, ‘m right here.” He picks up the pace again, his movements becoming urgent and demanding, as if he’s making up for all the lost time.

“Tell me I’m the man of your life, say it,” he commands, his eyes dark and intense. He needs to know where he stands in your heart, in your life, what place he occupies in your eyes.

“You’re the man of my life, there’s only you,” you whisper, gently running your fingers through his hair, wanting him to feel every ounce of love you have for him. You know Jaehyun needs reassurance, to feel cherished and cared for. You’ll say everything he wants to hear.

“We’ll never be apart again,” he murmurs, his eyes now filled with sadness and a quiet desperation.

“No, never again—ah, Jae…” you moan softly, your breath hitching as his touch overwhelms you.

You feel his dick tense up inside you, you know he's close to orgasm. 

“I'm yours, I love you so much.” Jaehyun likes to feel loved and reassured it helps him reach his climax. “You're the man in my life Jae. No one can be you, no one can love me like you and no one can fuck me like you.”

He moans loudly, finally relaxing into you, he's always done it, so why change your habits. He remains in ecstasy for a moment. His forehead is moist. His breathing calms and so does yours, your head resting against his chest. 

"I meant it, you know," you murmur against him, your hand still intertwined with his.

"I know... and so do I. You're the woman of my life. I want everything with you. I want us to get married, I want kids, I want a dog, and the beautiful country house that comes with it."

You look at him, Jaehyun is so much more mature and confident now.

"Why don't we pick up where we left off a few months ago, let's move in together."

"Leave your place tonight, and come stay at mine."

"Are you serious?"

"Completely. I don’t want to wake up a single morning without you. Last night I was going crazy coming home without you. You can bring your stuff gradually, but I’m warning you, you’re not sleeping there unless I’m with you."

You smile and kiss him. "Okay, Mr. Possessive."

"You’re mine, remember? You’re the one who said it."

When you walked into the living room where everyone had already gathered, you made an entrance.

Especially to him.

Jaehyun couldn’t stop staring.

God, she’s beautiful. His eyes practically screamed it.

Still, surrounded by family and friends, he forced himself to pull it together, swallowing down every inappropriate thought and greeting you like nothing was wrong.

“Long time no see, right?”

“How have you been?” you asked softly, wrapping your arms around him.

The hug lasted barely two seconds, but your scent hit him so hard it made his head spin.

After that, he couldn’t focus on a single conversation. Your laugh, your voice, the way you moved — everything kept pulling his attention back to you.

So he did what he always did.

He ran.

Joined another group. Kept busy. Kept distance.

All night long, you only crossed paths in passing. A glance here. A brush of shoulders there. Almosts. Always almosts.

You admired his self-control, but it was starting to irritate you.

Years of this…

Late-night talks that lasted too long. Sitting too close on the couch. Lying side by side on your bed, sharing secrets in the dark. Every moment thick with tension - and every single time, he found a way out.

Because at the end of the day, you were still just his friend’s little sister. At least that’s what he kept telling himself.

Before he could leave your family home, you stopped him one last time at the door.

“Don’t you think it’s a little early to leave?”

He smiled. “Unfortunately. I don’t have many days off. My schedule’s packed.”

“You’ve changed. Nothing used to stop you from staying the whole night here… with us.” With me.

“The army changes a man.”

You tilted your head, stepping closer. “Back then, all it took was one little tantrum and you’d give in.”

He stared at you for a long second, something dark flickering in his eyes.

Damn. When did she get this dangerous?

“Hm. Tantrums don’t suit you anymore,” he muttered. “When are you gonna grow out of those habits?”

You clasped your hands behind your back and looked up at him, bold and unshaken. “I thought you liked me like that.”

Your steady, piercing gaze threw him off for a second.

No. He wasn’t doing this tonight.

“Good night, Y/n.” I couldn’t love you any more than I already do.

He turned away without looking back and left the house under your longing stare.

Fine.

If he wouldn’t cross the line… maybe you’d just drag him over it.

-

Last night, he’d gone home hard as a rock, despite how calm he’d acted in front of you. And tonight, you were calling him.

“Y/N? Are you okay?”

Your voice comes out soft, breathy. “I’m not really sure… my chest hurts, since last night. Or maybe it’s a fever…” Your voice is soft, velvety.

Concern settles in his chest. “Is someone with you?”

“Hmm… no. Maybe you should come over. Cancel your plans and come as fast as you can…”

He hesitates. “I’m not sure I—”

A quiet sound cuts him off. A moan.

He freezes.

“Y/N?”

“I don’t wanna feel like this forever… you’re the only one who can help me…”

Your breathing is uneven now. Not pained. Something else.

He’s completely confused.

Then he hears you again. Another sound.

But… you don’t sound like you’re in pain. If anything, it’s the opposite.

He sinks into the chair, heart racing as realization slowly hits him.

“Some days I don’t even respond to my own name anymore… I love it too much when it comes from your mouth… oh—”

Another soft moan.

“You could end this suffering for me… if you finally loved me the way you’re supposed to…”

Your breathing grows shorter, your quiet little sounds melting into his ears like music.

He closes his eyes, picturing you right now - alone, thinking about him, saying things he never even dared to fantasize about.

His head falls back.

He should resist… shouldn’t he?

Every soft whimper, every shaky breath slipping through the phone goes straight to his head.

“Why now…?” he murmurs.

“Because you’re back,” you whisper. “And you could take care of me… at least for tonight.”

Your voice slides into him like a siren’s song, wrapping around every cell in his body.

He bites his lip, already losing. “You need me, huh?” His tone has changed — deeper, firmer, certain.

“Yes,” you moan louder than you meant to.

He groans. “Wait for me, baby. I’m coming to take care of you.”

“Please, Jae… drive as fast as you can.” You drop your phone and smile to yourself, already knowing you’ve won.

When he arrives, he heads straight to your bedroom — a place he knows far too well.

And he doesn’t hesitate.

He doesn’t even turn on the lights.

His feet already know the way to your bedroom, like muscle memory, like instinct — a place he’s stepped into a hundred times before, back when everything between you was still innocent.

Tonight, nothing is.

You’re waiting for him on the bed.

Like you’ve been waiting forever.

Dressed in nothing but your underwear, skin bare and glowing under the soft light, a thin red ribbon tangled in your hair and the same one wrapped delicately around your neck like a present tied just for him.

For a second, he forgets how to breathe.

“God… you’re beautiful.”

It comes out hoarse. Reverent. Like a confession. Like he’d waited his whole life to see you like this. Open. Available. His.

He steps closer, hands reaching for your face, thumb brushing your cheek gently.

“Do you like your gift?” you ask softly, your voice sweet and innocent.

“It’s incomparable.”

He leans down and kisses you — slow, deep, devastating. The kind of kiss that steals the air from your lungs and replaces it with him.

Months of distance, years of tension, every unsaid thing melting between your mouths. His hand tightens at your waist like he’s scared you might disappear if he doesn’t hold on hard enough.

When he pulls away, it’s only to let his lips wander — your jaw, your skin, the sensitive spot beneath your ear.

“I thought you felt sick,” he murmurs against you. “I was worried.”

You take his hand and place it over your chest. “I told you… your presence would cure my heartache.”

He swallows. Your warmth seeps into him, straight under his skin, making him ache in places he can’t control.

“Then I guess I should stay a while.”

“At least for the night.”

Slowly, he unties the ribbon around your neck. The fabric slides against your skin, and he brings it to his nose, breathing you in like it’s something addictive. Like he needs your scent in his lungs.

He slips it into his jacket pocket.

“I’m keeping this,” he says quietly. “As a souvenir.”

“You can take anything you want, Jaehyun.”

You mean it.

He looks at you, eyes dark.

“When did you become this woman?”

“When you pushed me to become her… just to seduce you.”

That answer hits him straight in the chest. And he knows it’s already too late.

Before the night is over, he’ll be completely gone for you - there’s no going back from this.

He gently lifts you into his arms and lays you back on the bed, pressing his body over yours, his hips settling between your thighs. His tongue tangles with yours endlessly, hungry, desperate.

His hands roam your body the way you’ve dreamed about for years — reverent, curious, greedy all at once — tracing every curve like he’s learning you by touch alone.

His fingers hook under one strap of your bra, sliding it down your shoulder. Then the other. Unhurried. Like he wants to savor every second.

Finally, he lifts you slightly with one arm, unclasping it completely, letting the fabric fall away.

And when his eyes settle on your bare chest, the look on his face makes your stomach flip.

Like he’s starving. Like you’re the only thing that could ever satisfy him.

You rise from his lap and slowly slide the lace of your panties down your legs. You’ve waited too long for this. You’re done wasting time.

Standing in front of him, your eyes never leave his. Jaehyun lifts one of your thighs, guiding you closer, giving himself full access to your already needy heat. His other hand steadies your hip, firm, possessive, like he’s afraid you might slip away.

And when his tongue finally touches you, the sound that rips out of you is so loud, so shameless, you’re sure the whole neighborhood must hear it.

Your fingers tangle in his hair on instinct, gripping tight for balance.

For sanity. For something to hold onto.

The confidence in the way you stand there - open, trusting, offering yourself to him - makes something feral spark behind his eyes.

He doesn’t taste you gently. Gosh no.

Jaehyun devours you like you’re the sweetest, juiciest fruit he’s ever tasted, like he’s been starving for years and you’re the only thing that could ever satisfy him.

Your small, breathless sounds make his heart pound harder, pushing him further, rougher, needier.

But you don’t just want his mouth. You want him. All of him.

His mouth on yours, his body filling you completely.

You try to pull him back, breath shaking.

“Jae… please… I want you inside me… enough foreplay…”

He pulls away slowly, lips swollen, eyes dark, voice low and husky enough to melt straight through you.

“I thought this was my gift.”

A soft laugh slips out of you, dizzy and fond.

“You can have it as many times as you want… but you made me wait too long to keep torturing me.”

You sink down onto your knees in front of him, hands sliding up his thighs, looking up at him like he’s something sacred.

“You’ll have all the time you want with me.”

It sounds like a confession. A love declaration. He knows it.

His hand comes up to caress your cheek, something tender in his eyes, like he’s rediscovering you after all these years.

“You’re the most adorable thing I’ve ever had in my life.”

Before he even finishes the sentence, your hand wraps around him, warm and slow, pumping gently, learning the weight of him, the way he shudders under your touch.

You guide him to you, lining him up, your heart racing so hard it almost hurts.

And still - still - you never break eye contact.

Then you lower yourself. Slowly. Taking him inch by inch until he’s fully inside you.

The stretch makes you both gasp.

Jaehyun exhales against your mouth, a deep, broken groan spilling out as his eyes fall shut from the sheer intensity of it.

“I told you…” you whisper, breath mingling with his, “you should love me.”

He presses his forehead to yours.

“But I’ve always loved you, Y/N.”

Your chest tightens.

“Then never stop.”

“If you’re asking… it’s a promise.”

You moan as he starts moving. Slow at first. Deep.

Each thrust deliberate, like he wants you to feel every second of him, like he’s trying to memorize the way your body fits around his.

One arm wraps tightly around your waist while the other cradles the back of your head, fingers threading through your hair, holding you like something precious.

Held like that, you feel completely exposed, completely safe. You melt into him. Into the steady rhythm of his breathing against your skin.

You’ve never felt this good. Never felt this protected.

The boy you grew up loving, the fantasy you carried through your teenage years, is finally here — holding you, loving you, like he’s been waiting just as long.

You brush your lips against his ear, teeth grazing his lobe softly.

“I wanna get on all fours for you…” Just saying it makes you clench around him.

He groans, low and wrecked. “Baby… you’re gonna make me lose it.”

Your heart flutters instantly.

“I’m your baby?”

“You’re whatever you want to be to me,” he murmurs. “Now that I gave in… I can’t go back. I want all of you. All the time.”

“Then let me give myself to you the way I really want.”

He pauses only to catch his breath.

“You okay?” you whisper.

He smiles, with those beautiful dimples, like he’s never been happier. “I couldn’t be better.”

You slip away gently and turn your back to him, glancing over your shoulder. “I still need you.”

The sound he makes is almost a growl. His hands grab your hips, pulling you back, guiding you, and with one firm, sharp thrust, he’s inside you again.

And nothing compares. Jaehyun has slept with women before. Several. But nothing - nothing - compares to this. It feels like discovering pleasure for the first time.

And he knows why.

Because it’s you.

You’ve always been there, orbiting around him since childhood. What used to make him laugh when he was a kid, what made him soft when he was a teenager, slowly turned into something deeper before he even realized it.

One day he just… couldn’t stop thinking about you. Looking for you the second he arrived somewhere. Walking you home. Watching you without meaning to. Even getting jealous of the boys you brought around. He tried to bury it. His feelings. His desire.

And yet here you are now, bent over in front of him, completely devoted, ready to fulfill every one of those suppressed wants.

He leans down and presses his body against your back, pushing you gently into the mattress. His lips find your neck, leaving slow kisses along your skin.

“Baby… don’t be mad… but I’m gonna come…”

The words send heat straight through you.

His hand slides up, holding your throat gently, pulling you into a deep kiss while his pace loses control, faster, rougher, desperate.

Then he breaks with a groan, spilling warmth across your back, breath shaking against your lips.

But he doesn’t stop touching you.

Doesn’t stop caring.

His fingers slip between your thighs, rubbing slow, patient circles on your clit that make your knees weak.

“You’re the most perfect gift anyone could dream of, Y/n…”

His touch grows more insistent.

“I’ll always want more. Every day. You woke up something starving inside me...starving for you.”

His fingers alternate between your folds and your clit until your whole body starts trembling.

“My perfect little thing…” His words, mixed with the friction, send you straight over the edge. You come hard, like the two of you are the only people left on earth.

Afterward, he lies down beside you and intertwines your fingers with his, like it’s the most natural thing in the world.

“Did I love you the way you wanted?”

You smile softly.

“Exactly how I wanted… but I want more, Jae.”

He kisses your shoulder.

“The night’s only just started. And I made you a promise.”

“You’ll keep it?”

He kisses your eyelids, your cheeks, your nose, the corners of your mouth, then your lips - slow and lingering.

“I’ve been waiting for that, so hard.”

You already feel him hardening against you again.

Eyes fluttering closed, you breathe his name like a prayer. “Oh… Jaehyun.”

Your reply is instant, desperate in the way you don’t even try to hide. The thought of seeing him makes something in your chest untangle, makes your ribs feel a little less tight. You sit up, glancing around your room, half-heartedly straightening things up. You should shower before he gets here, at least try to make yourself presentable—

The doorbell rings. Not even ten minutes later.

“Shit.”

You roll your eyes at yourself, but honestly? You’re not mad. You’re already moving, already reaching for the door, already smiling before you even open it.

And there he is.

Messy brown hair. Ridiculously pretty eyes. That smile—the one that always makes your stomach feel like it’s folding in on itself. He steps inside without a word, without hesitation, arms slipping around your waist, body fitting against yours like it was made to. A kiss on your forehead, soft, lingering.

“Hey, pretty girl.”

You exhale against his chest, sinking into him.

“Hi,” you mumble against his chest, breathing him in. Suddenly, today doesn’t feel so bad anymore.

“You got here so fast.” You pull back just enough to look at him. “Were you nearby?”

“Mhm. And I was kind of excited to see you, so I didn’t waste time.” His fingers slide through yours, effortlessly, like second nature. Leading you toward your room, toward the quiet comfort of your space. “Should I have given you more time?”

“No, it’s just—” You hesitate. “I thought I’d have time to shower before you got here. I feel gross. I wanted to look cute for you.”

His head tilts. Something amused, something fond in the way he looks at you.

“That’s an easy fix.”

Before you can ask what he means, he’s steering you toward the bathroom.

You blink. “Wait—”

“If you need a shower, let’s shower.” His voice is soft, but firm, like he’s stating the most obvious thing in the world. “I love being clean. And I love seeing you naked. This is a win for me.”

“You’re impossible—”

You don’t finish, because his lips are on yours, and your brain goes quiet.

It’s slow, unhurried, his hands moving with the kind of gentleness that makes your heart ache. He pulls your shirt over your head, unbuttons your jeans, sliding them off inch by inch. Every movement deliberate. Worshipful. And then his own clothes hit the floor, and the warmth of his skin against yours makes your breath hitch.

The water turns on.

He watches you with something close to amusement as you shiver at the warmth seeping in, presses a dozen tiny kisses across your face, like he’s mapping you out.

“So,” he murmurs, “how was your day?”

You huff, tilting your head up to look at him. “Not great. Until now.”

“On a scale of 1 to 10?”

You pretend to think about it. “Before you texted me? A 3. After your text? A 7. Once you got here? 8. In the shower? 9.”

He hums, pleased. “Excellent. That means I’m doing my job right.” Then, lower, softer—“Turn around.”

You do, closing your eyes, waiting.

For a second, his hands disappear. Your brows knit together. But then—

The scent of your body wash.

The warmth of his palms returning, slow and deliberate, moving over your skin in soft circles.

And just like that, the weight of the day dissolves.

“Mark…”

“Shhh,” he murmurs, pressing his lips to your shoulder. “Let me take care of you. It’ll feel nice.”

And it does. God, it does. You let yourself sink into it. Let yourself exist here, in this moment, where everything is warm and quiet and safe. He rinses you just as carefully, and by the time the water shuts off, you feel boneless.

Then—softness. Warmth. He’s wrapping you in a towel, his hands impossibly gentle. You grip his shoulders, barely thinking, just following. He leads you back to your room, and you let him.

You sit on the bed, half in a daze, watching as he kneels in front of you, rummages through your drawer like it’s his own. He pulls out a pair of underwear, slides it up your legs, his touch featherlight.

“I can do that myself, you know.”

“I know.” He presses a kiss to your knee. “But you need someone to take care of you tonight. Let me.”

He smooths the fabric into place, then smirks. “Though, I usually prefer taking these off of you.” A wink.

You laugh, breathless, fingers sliding into his hair.

“And now?” His voice is quieter, lower. Eyes locked onto yours.

“10/10.”

The smile he gives you is something secret, something warm, something that makes your chest ache.

He smiles, pulling you down into bed with him, tucking you against his chest. His arms wrap around you, warm and steady, and you think—this. This is the safest place in the world. You could stay like this forever, feeling his breath against your neck, letting the rest of the world fade away.

And in this moment, you know. You’ll cherish this. This little pocket of happiness, this unexpected ending to an otherwise forgettable day.

“And now?” he whispers against your ear.

You smile, eyes fluttering shut.

“20/10.”

He kisses your temple.

And just like that, you fall asleep. Wrapped in warmth, in safety, in love.

Mark will always be your safe place. And nights like this always remind you why.

“Goodnight, babe.”

Your last thought before sleep takes you is simple.

You are loved. You are cherished. You are home.

When you walked into the living room where everyone had already gathered, you made an entrance.

Especially to him.

Jaehyun couldn’t stop staring.

God, she’s beautiful. His eyes practically screamed it.

Still, surrounded by family and friends, he forced himself to pull it together, swallowing down every inappropriate thought and greeting you like nothing was wrong.

“Long time no see, right?”

“How have you been?” you asked softly, wrapping your arms around him.

The hug lasted barely two seconds, but your scent hit him so hard it made his head spin.

After that, he couldn’t focus on a single conversation. Your laugh, your voice, the way you moved — everything kept pulling his attention back to you.

So he did what he always did.

He ran.

Joined another group. Kept busy. Kept distance.

All night long, you only crossed paths in passing. A glance here. A brush of shoulders there. Almosts. Always almosts.

You admired his self-control, but it was starting to irritate you.

Years of this…

Late-night talks that lasted too long. Sitting too close on the couch. Lying side by side on your bed, sharing secrets in the dark. Every moment thick with tension - and every single time, he found a way out.

Because at the end of the day, you were still just his friend’s little sister. At least that’s what he kept telling himself.

Before he could leave your family home, you stopped him one last time at the door.

“Don’t you think it’s a little early to leave?”

He smiled. “Unfortunately. I don’t have many days off. My schedule’s packed.”

“You’ve changed. Nothing used to stop you from staying the whole night here… with us.” With me.

“The army changes a man.”

You tilted your head, stepping closer. “Back then, all it took was one little tantrum and you’d give in.”

He stared at you for a long second, something dark flickering in his eyes.

Damn. When did she get this dangerous?

“Hm. Tantrums don’t suit you anymore,” he muttered. “When are you gonna grow out of those habits?”

You clasped your hands behind your back and looked up at him, bold and unshaken. “I thought you liked me like that.”

Your steady, piercing gaze threw him off for a second.

No. He wasn’t doing this tonight.

“Good night, Y/n.” I couldn’t love you any more than I already do.

He turned away without looking back and left the house under your longing stare.

Fine.

If he wouldn’t cross the line… maybe you’d just drag him over it.

-

Last night, he’d gone home hard as a rock, despite how calm he’d acted in front of you. And tonight, you were calling him.

“Y/N? Are you okay?”

Your voice comes out soft, breathy. “I’m not really sure… my chest hurts, since last night. Or maybe it’s a fever…” Your voice is soft, velvety.

Concern settles in his chest. “Is someone with you?”

“Hmm… no. Maybe you should come over. Cancel your plans and come as fast as you can…”

He hesitates. “I’m not sure I—”

A quiet sound cuts him off. A moan.

He freezes.

“Y/N?”

“I don’t wanna feel like this forever… you’re the only one who can help me…”

Your breathing is uneven now. Not pained. Something else.

He’s completely confused.

Then he hears you again. Another sound.

But… you don’t sound like you’re in pain. If anything, it’s the opposite.

He sinks into the chair, heart racing as realization slowly hits him.

“Some days I don’t even respond to my own name anymore… I love it too much when it comes from your mouth… oh—”

Another soft moan.

“You could end this suffering for me… if you finally loved me the way you’re supposed to…”

Your breathing grows shorter, your quiet little sounds melting into his ears like music.

He closes his eyes, picturing you right now - alone, thinking about him, saying things he never even dared to fantasize about.

His head falls back.

He should resist… shouldn’t he?

Every soft whimper, every shaky breath slipping through the phone goes straight to his head.

“Why now…?” he murmurs.

“Because you’re back,” you whisper. “And you could take care of me… at least for tonight.”

Your voice slides into him like a siren’s song, wrapping around every cell in his body.

He bites his lip, already losing. “You need me, huh?” His tone has changed — deeper, firmer, certain.

“Yes,” you moan louder than you meant to.

He groans. “Wait for me, baby. I’m coming to take care of you.”

“Please, Jae… drive as fast as you can.” You drop your phone and smile to yourself, already knowing you’ve won.

When he arrives, he heads straight to your bedroom — a place he knows far too well.

And he doesn’t hesitate.

He doesn’t even turn on the lights.

His feet already know the way to your bedroom, like muscle memory, like instinct — a place he’s stepped into a hundred times before, back when everything between you was still innocent.

Tonight, nothing is.

You’re waiting for him on the bed.

Like you’ve been waiting forever.

Dressed in nothing but your underwear, skin bare and glowing under the soft light, a thin red ribbon tangled in your hair and the same one wrapped delicately around your neck like a present tied just for him.

For a second, he forgets how to breathe.

“God… you’re beautiful.”

It comes out hoarse. Reverent. Like a confession. Like he’d waited his whole life to see you like this. Open. Available. His.

He steps closer, hands reaching for your face, thumb brushing your cheek gently.

“Do you like your gift?” you ask softly, your voice sweet and innocent.

“It’s incomparable.”

He leans down and kisses you — slow, deep, devastating. The kind of kiss that steals the air from your lungs and replaces it with him.

Months of distance, years of tension, every unsaid thing melting between your mouths. His hand tightens at your waist like he’s scared you might disappear if he doesn’t hold on hard enough.

When he pulls away, it’s only to let his lips wander — your jaw, your skin, the sensitive spot beneath your ear.

“I thought you felt sick,” he murmurs against you. “I was worried.”

You take his hand and place it over your chest. “I told you… your presence would cure my heartache.”

He swallows. Your warmth seeps into him, straight under his skin, making him ache in places he can’t control.

“Then I guess I should stay a while.”

“At least for the night.”

Slowly, he unties the ribbon around your neck. The fabric slides against your skin, and he brings it to his nose, breathing you in like it’s something addictive. Like he needs your scent in his lungs.

He slips it into his jacket pocket.

“I’m keeping this,” he says quietly. “As a souvenir.”

“You can take anything you want, Jaehyun.”

You mean it.

He looks at you, eyes dark.

“When did you become this woman?”

“When you pushed me to become her… just to seduce you.”

That answer hits him straight in the chest. And he knows it’s already too late.

Before the night is over, he’ll be completely gone for you - there’s no going back from this.

He gently lifts you into his arms and lays you back on the bed, pressing his body over yours, his hips settling between your thighs. His tongue tangles with yours endlessly, hungry, desperate.

His hands roam your body the way you’ve dreamed about for years — reverent, curious, greedy all at once — tracing every curve like he’s learning you by touch alone.

His fingers hook under one strap of your bra, sliding it down your shoulder. Then the other. Unhurried. Like he wants to savor every second.

Finally, he lifts you slightly with one arm, unclasping it completely, letting the fabric fall away.

And when his eyes settle on your bare chest, the look on his face makes your stomach flip.

Like he’s starving. Like you’re the only thing that could ever satisfy him.

You rise from his lap and slowly slide the lace of your panties down your legs. You’ve waited too long for this. You’re done wasting time.

Standing in front of him, your eyes never leave his. Jaehyun lifts one of your thighs, guiding you closer, giving himself full access to your already needy heat. His other hand steadies your hip, firm, possessive, like he’s afraid you might slip away.

And when his tongue finally touches you, the sound that rips out of you is so loud, so shameless, you’re sure the whole neighborhood must hear it.

Your fingers tangle in his hair on instinct, gripping tight for balance.

For sanity. For something to hold onto.

The confidence in the way you stand there - open, trusting, offering yourself to him - makes something feral spark behind his eyes.

He doesn’t taste you gently. Gosh no.

Jaehyun devours you like you’re the sweetest, juiciest fruit he’s ever tasted, like he’s been starving for years and you’re the only thing that could ever satisfy him.

Your small, breathless sounds make his heart pound harder, pushing him further, rougher, needier.

But you don’t just want his mouth. You want him. All of him.

His mouth on yours, his body filling you completely.

You try to pull him back, breath shaking.

“Jae… please… I want you inside me… enough foreplay…”

He pulls away slowly, lips swollen, eyes dark, voice low and husky enough to melt straight through you.

“I thought this was my gift.”

A soft laugh slips out of you, dizzy and fond.

“You can have it as many times as you want… but you made me wait too long to keep torturing me.”

You sink down onto your knees in front of him, hands sliding up his thighs, looking up at him like he’s something sacred.

“You’ll have all the time you want with me.”

It sounds like a confession. A love declaration. He knows it.

His hand comes up to caress your cheek, something tender in his eyes, like he’s rediscovering you after all these years.

“You’re the most adorable thing I’ve ever had in my life.”

Before he even finishes the sentence, your hand wraps around him, warm and slow, pumping gently, learning the weight of him, the way he shudders under your touch.

You guide him to you, lining him up, your heart racing so hard it almost hurts.

And still - still - you never break eye contact.

Then you lower yourself. Slowly. Taking him inch by inch until he’s fully inside you.

The stretch makes you both gasp.

Jaehyun exhales against your mouth, a deep, broken groan spilling out as his eyes fall shut from the sheer intensity of it.

“I told you…” you whisper, breath mingling with his, “you should love me.”

He presses his forehead to yours.

“But I’ve always loved you, Y/N.”

Your chest tightens.

“Then never stop.”

“If you’re asking… it’s a promise.”

You moan as he starts moving. Slow at first. Deep.

Each thrust deliberate, like he wants you to feel every second of him, like he’s trying to memorize the way your body fits around his.

One arm wraps tightly around your waist while the other cradles the back of your head, fingers threading through your hair, holding you like something precious.

Held like that, you feel completely exposed, completely safe. You melt into him. Into the steady rhythm of his breathing against your skin.

You’ve never felt this good. Never felt this protected.

The boy you grew up loving, the fantasy you carried through your teenage years, is finally here — holding you, loving you, like he’s been waiting just as long.

You brush your lips against his ear, teeth grazing his lobe softly.

“I wanna get on all fours for you…” Just saying it makes you clench around him.

He groans, low and wrecked. “Baby… you’re gonna make me lose it.”

Your heart flutters instantly.

“I’m your baby?”

“You’re whatever you want to be to me,” he murmurs. “Now that I gave in… I can’t go back. I want all of you. All the time.”

“Then let me give myself to you the way I really want.”

He pauses only to catch his breath.

“You okay?” you whisper.

He smiles, with those beautiful dimples, like he’s never been happier. “I couldn’t be better.”

You slip away gently and turn your back to him, glancing over your shoulder. “I still need you.”

The sound he makes is almost a growl. His hands grab your hips, pulling you back, guiding you, and with one firm, sharp thrust, he’s inside you again.

And nothing compares. Jaehyun has slept with women before. Several. But nothing - nothing - compares to this. It feels like discovering pleasure for the first time.

And he knows why.

Because it’s you.

You’ve always been there, orbiting around him since childhood. What used to make him laugh when he was a kid, what made him soft when he was a teenager, slowly turned into something deeper before he even realized it.

One day he just… couldn’t stop thinking about you. Looking for you the second he arrived somewhere. Walking you home. Watching you without meaning to. Even getting jealous of the boys you brought around. He tried to bury it. His feelings. His desire.

And yet here you are now, bent over in front of him, completely devoted, ready to fulfill every one of those suppressed wants.

He leans down and presses his body against your back, pushing you gently into the mattress. His lips find your neck, leaving slow kisses along your skin.

“Baby… don’t be mad… but I’m gonna come…”

The words send heat straight through you.

His hand slides up, holding your throat gently, pulling you into a deep kiss while his pace loses control, faster, rougher, desperate.

Then he breaks with a groan, spilling warmth across your back, breath shaking against your lips.

But he doesn’t stop touching you.

Doesn’t stop caring.

His fingers slip between your thighs, rubbing slow, patient circles on your clit that make your knees weak.

“You’re the most perfect gift anyone could dream of, Y/n…”

His touch grows more insistent.

“I’ll always want more. Every day. You woke up something starving inside me...starving for you.”

His fingers alternate between your folds and your clit until your whole body starts trembling.

“My perfect little thing…” His words, mixed with the friction, send you straight over the edge. You come hard, like the two of you are the only people left on earth.

Afterward, he lies down beside you and intertwines your fingers with his, like it’s the most natural thing in the world.

“Did I love you the way you wanted?”

You smile softly.

“Exactly how I wanted… but I want more, Jae.”

He kisses your shoulder.

“The night’s only just started. And I made you a promise.”

“You’ll keep it?”

He kisses your eyelids, your cheeks, your nose, the corners of your mouth, then your lips - slow and lingering.

“I’ve been waiting for that, so hard.”

You already feel him hardening against you again.

Eyes fluttering closed, you breathe his name like a prayer. “Oh… Jaehyun.”

You specifically checked before coming to this party—Jaehyun was supposed to be visiting his parents.

“What the hell is he doing here?” you hiss at Johnny, grabbing his arm.

“Ow—” Johnny follows your line of sight. “Oh, right. His parents canceled, so he skipped the trip. My bad, maybe I forgot to mention?”

“Forgot? Seriously, Johnny?” You pinch him hard.

“Anyway,” he says, brushing it off, “aren’t you seeing Lucas right now?”

You stammer. “Uh, yeah. I mean, no. He’s heading back to Hong Kong—long-distance? Not my thing.”

The last time you and Jaehyun broke it off, it felt… final. Like, no casual makeups this time, no easy resets. It was all or nothing—building a future together or walking away for good. And guess what? Option two won. But even though you knew you’d run into him again, some kind of heads-up would’ve been nice, y’know? A little mental prep.

You hug the wall, sliding toward the kitchen. Grabbing your glass, you spin around—and there he is, catching your eye from the hallway. How long has he been watching you? His gaze, those piercing eyes—it’s like they burn straight into your chest. You quickly look away, pretending you didn’t notice, but your heart’s racing. Seeing Jaehyun again stirs something deep, something warm, something dangerously familiar.

You spend the rest of the evening holed up in the kitchen, clinging to the safety of Ten, Yangyang, and Kun’s hilarious banter. For a while, it works—the knot in your stomach loosens, and you almost forget Jaehyun’s here.

But then you see him. Leaning against the doorway, arms crossed, watching you. His lips curve into a knowing smile—because of course you’re making him laugh. You always do.

God, that smile. You missed it. For a second, you can’t help but mirror it, a tiny grin sneaking onto your face. You shrug like, What can I say? I’m naturally hilarious.

He hesitates, then starts toward you as the spot next to you opens up. Every step seems calculated, deliberate.

“You’re still the same clown, huh?”

“What can I say?” You flash a smirk. “Old habits die hard.”

You both start with small talk—classic avoidance of the giant emotional elephant in the room. You laugh at everything he says, a laugh that’s just a little too nervous. He doesn’t take his eyes off you, studying your face like it’s a map he’s trying to remember. Every curve, every line—he’s looking for signs of change since the last time he saw you.

You think to yourself: He hasn’t changed. Same calm, detached vibe, like he’s carrying the world on his shoulders but pretending it’s no big deal. But his eyes? Oh, they’re a whole other story. They give away what his words never will.

Meanwhile, he’s thinking about how different you seem. A little colder, maybe. But that spark in your eyes? It’s still there, and it could still destroy him if he’s not careful.

The silence that falls between you is loaded. Your eyes meet, and honestly? Words are unnecessary. Your history is in the room with you—your love, your heartbreak, all the messy, raw intensity of it. It floods the space, making it hard to breathe.

You remember the nights you spent talking until the sun came up, building this fragile, glowing little world for just the two of you. And the crushing disappointment when you hit that same wall over and over again—Jaehyun’s habit of running the second things got too real.

He remembers the fights where words were weapons, and the way he couldn’t stop himself from ruining everything good. He remembers you walking out for the last time, leaving him alone in an apartment that suddenly felt way too big.

He tilts his head, breaking the silence. “Wanna get out of here?”

You nod, and he leads the way, weaving through the crowded living room. He grabs your hand to guide you, and the feeling of his fingers laced with yours sends a shiver down your spine. Like your whole body remembers him in a way your mind’s trying to forget.

At the door, he picks up his jacket and drapes it over your shoulders. His Ford Mustang II King Cobra is parked outside—brown, classic, and way too familiar.

Sliding into the passenger seat, you feel a wave of déjà vu so strong it nearly knocks the breath out of you. The music hums softly in the background as the car starts, and you stare out the window at the passing lights, wondering if following him was a mistake. You can’t bring yourself to look at him. A black lock falls over his eyes, his long lashes fluttering to shake it off. His face is flawless, he’s the kind of guy that’s hard to look at without wanting to taste him.

“So… you seeing anyone?” Jaehyun’s voice cuts through the silence.

You smirk, not buying his casual tone. “Is that a question, or are you fishing for confirmation?”

He clicks his tongue, letting out a low laugh. Leaning one arm against the open window, he runs his fingers through his hair in mock exasperation. The thought of you with someone else? It’s enough to make him sick. He can’t focus on the road; he’s too busy stealing glances at you. The wind gently ruffles his hair, a few more strands falling over his eyes, you can see the muscles in his neck tense up. Jeong, why the hell are you so hot? You dream of diving into the back of his neck and devouring him with kisses. But he's not yours anymore.

“Word on the street says you’re seeing other girls too,” you fire back, throwing in a little jab.

His laugh is sharp and sarcastic. “Oh, so you’re confirming then? - A couple of lame setups from Doyoung. Nothing worth mentioning.”

His hands tighten on the steering wheel. That godamn hands that have sent you to heaven so many times. “Can’t stop thinking ‘bout you and I.” His voice drops to a murmur, the words barely audible.

You pretend not to hear him, staring out the window, trying to avoid your desire. He knows the way to your place by heart.

When you arrive, he steps out of the car at the same time as you. You raise an eyebrow.

“Smoke?”

You nod. “Sure.”

Leaning against the hood of the car, Jaehyun lights your cigarette, his eyes never leaving yours. It’s like you can hear his thoughts, feel his emotions radiating off him. He looks away, gazing into the distance.

He’s tried to forget you, to fill the emptiness with other faces. But none of them shine like you. You’re etched into him, a scar that refuses to fade.

And you? You tried to move on, but the silence he left behind was louder than his presence ever was.

“I thought you quit,” you say, your tone teasing.

He chuckles, the cigarette dangling from his lips. “I did.”

You snort, gesturing to the smoke curling in the air. “Sure looks like it.” 

“Guess old habits die hard.”

You smirk. “Tragic loss for the Olympics. Michael Phelps can rest easy.”

“Hmm, truly devastating for the world of sports.”

He exhales, the smoke curling lazily in the air. “This was our thing, y’know? Sneaking off to smoke at every party, everytime we were together. It’s a bad habit, but it’s ours. Guess I’m scared to change that.”

You glance at him, your voice quieter. “Some things just stick with you, no matter how much you try to shake them.”

He leans in, his face close enough that you can feel his breath. “I like the things we share. Even the bad ones.”

Your heart skips a beat, and for a second, you forget. Forget that he’s not yours anymore. That you can’t just close the distance and kiss him like you used to.

You snap out of it, standing abruptly. “Thanks for the cigarette, Jeong. See you around.”

Shrugging off his jacket, you hold it out to him. He doesn’t take it right away, his gaze lingering on your hand before he finally brushes his fingers against yours, just enough to send sparks up your arm.

He smirks as he takes the jacket, and you return it with a soft smile before walking away.

Back in your apartment, your skin still tingles where he touched you. Jaehyun.

When you wake up the next morning, there’s a message waiting for you on your phone. Simple, almost cold: “Can we talk?”

You hesitate, your fingers trembling slightly over the screen. You know that replying means reopening a door you worked so hard to close. But you also know you can’t say no to him—you never could.

The two of you meet at your usual coffee shop. It’s been a while since you’ve been here. Everything looks the same, yet everything feels different.

Jaehyun is sitting there, dressed in a plain white t-shirt and blue Levi’s, paired with boots. The look is effortless, but on him, it’s like no one else could wear it better. The black of his hair contrasts so perfectly that he looks like he stepped out of an old James Dean movie. And all you can think about is how badly you want to slide your hands under that shirt.

He sees you and smiles, his eyes lighting up like he’s been waiting for this moment all night.

You know you look good—you’re wearing the black mini skirt you two bought together ages ago, and your signature crimson lipstick that drives him crazy. As you walk closer, his gaze rakes over you, devouring every detail. The flicker of excitement in your chest feels like a tiny victory.

You sit down, and the conversation starts politely, almost mechanically. Like you’re dancing an old, familiar routine. But the air between you is thick with everything unsaid—last night, the months before that—it’s too much. Too heavy for small talk.

Jaehyun finally breaks the silence, his voice quiet and unsteady, like it’s coming from somewhere deep and vulnerable.

“I always thought I’d eventually get over thinking about you. But here you are, and I’m still the same idiot who wants you more than anything. When you left, I really thought my world stopped turning. I built my life around you. It’s like you took a piece of me when you walked away, and I’ve been chasing it ever since, trying to find it in all the wrong places.”

You didn’t expect him to say this. To be this open about the pain he felt when you left—the pain he never knew how to put into words before.

You listen in silence, but the way your hands tighten around your coffee cup betrays your nerves.

Barely above a whisper, you respond, “And I thought you’d be the one I could remember without pain. But I can’t even breathe normally when you’re around. I can’t sit across from you for ten minutes without falling apart.”

The truth between you is undeniable now: you’ve always loved each other, but your love has always been poisoned by your fears and insecurities.

“I was scared,” Jaehyun admits. “Scared you’d leave for someone better. I’ve never felt like I was enough for you, like I could give you what you needed. You always seemed so sure of yourself, so put-together. And me? I was just… me. So I let you go. Cowardly, I know, but it felt easier than telling you how I felt. You told me that you love me but you never want to see me again..”

“I know,” you say softly. “And I know I’m not innocent in all this. I made you feel that way. I never trusted you, not fully. I was so sure you’d leave eventually, that you’d get scared of commitment. But in the end, I was the one who walked away. Because I felt so empty, Jae. Being with you, it started to hurt.”

Jaehyun’s voice drops lower, but there’s a determination in it now. “So what? We just let our insecurities keep running the show? Let them ruin us for good? Or do we forget all that and rebuild? I don’t want to pretend anyone else could ever be you. No one’s you.”

You look away, staring at the traffic outside the window.

It hits you—this is the exact spot where you broke up for the first time. Back in high school, when you were still kids fumbling through love and heartbreak. It feels like some kind of cruel deja vu, like the universe loves throwing you into the same cycle over and over.

And yet, a few months ago, you promised yourself something. That you’d protect yourself first, no matter what. Even if it meant walking away from love.

“Look, I know, trust me I understand, I deserve less, If I was you I wouldn't take me back. But Y/n…I don't wanna see you- I can’t see you with anyone but me. How am I supposed to accept it, I love me so much more when you’re around and I know that you do too. Us, together, is something else.”

“It just goes round and round every time. I’m done with this.” You stand to leave, the chair scraping against the floor with finality.

Before you can take another step, his hand catches your wrist.

“If you walk away again, I won’t stop you this time,” he murmurs, his voice low and trembling. “But if you stay... I promise, this time, I won’t let anything come between us. I’ll be the man you need. Someone you can trust, someone who’s by your side. Always.”

His words sound raw, almost desperate, and for a moment, you freeze.

You want to leave, but his eyes—those eyes—you’re powerless against them. The way he looks at you wraps you up, as if you’re already in his arms, as if he’s touching every part of you without even making contact.

And he’s different now. You can feel it in the way he speaks, in the way his vulnerability lays bare between you. Jaehyun looks like he’s finally grown, like he’s learned to open up in ways he couldn’t before. He’s not just asking for another chance—he’s begging to be the person you’ve always needed him to be.

So, just this once? Why not give him that chance? After everything you’ve shared, doesn’t he at least deserve that?

“Take me home,” you whisper.

His smile is immediate, radiant, and you can see the relief in his shining eyes. It feels so bittersweet—how deeply you love him, even after everything. Even after running, even after months apart, even after you tried to leave him behind. Your heart has never learned to be quiet about him, and it frustrates you to no end. He has this undeniable power over you, and you hate it almost as much as you love it.

As you step out of the coffee shop, Jaehyun pulls you to the wall outside, one arm wrapping tightly around your waist. He holds you there for a moment, looking into your eyes like he’s trying to say something his words can’t reach: This is it. This is the last time. This time, it’s forever.

And then he kisses you.

It’s deep, consuming, his velvet lips brushing against yours with an urgency that makes your knees weak. His mouth moves over yours like he’s trying to make up for all the lost time, for every second he’s gone without you. When his tongue meets yours, you let out a soft moan, your body melting into his as his hand presses against the small of your back.

No one else could ever be him. No one else could kiss you like this.

Because with Jaehyun, it’s not just a kiss—it’s everything. 

The air between you grows heavier, filled with passion and the raw intensity of everything you’ve been holding back.

“Let’s go home babe. Or I'll behave badly in public.” 

“You miss me this much ?”

“You really ask the question.” He narrows his eyes, studying you. Oh, he knows that look. You’re playing with him, and he’s more than ready to join the game.

“Why the mini skirt, then?” he asks, his voice low, teasing, as his lips curve into a smirk. “Just to torture me, huh?” He slides his hands down your hips and takes a firm grip on your butt. 

You let out a small gasp of surprise, your eyes widening for just a moment. Jaehyun’s smile grows—it’s that sound, the one he’s always loved. It tells him everything he needs to know. You haven’t gotten over him. He still has the same effect on you.

“Maybe..”

“Tell me, did you have sex with him?” You pretend not to know who he’s talking about, tilting your head slightly as you widen your eyes in mock innocence.

“Who, exactly?” you ask, your voice light and teasing, the perfect picture of feigned cluelessness.

“This Honk-Kong guy, don’t mess up with me right now.” he presses his hips against yours, you feel the bone in his jeans. 

“He never took what was yours, if that's what you're asking for”

He exhales in relief, his shoulders relaxing as his eyes light up with renewed energy. “And what’s mine?” he asks, his voice soft but laced with a quiet intensity. He needs to hear you say it, to let the words come from your lips.

You bite your lower lip, feeling your heart tighten. This guy loves you so much, you can feel it in every fiber of your being. It’s overwhelming, undeniable.

“Me.”

“So let's see, show me how much you belong to me.” He grabs your hand and pulls you along, urgency in his steps as he leads you to the car. Before you know it, you’re climbing into the backseat with him, your heart pounding in sync with his.

In one swift motion, he pulls you onto his lap, straddling him. His hands grip your waist as his lips crash against yours, this time with a wild, unrestrained intensity. The kiss is deeper, hungrier, as if he’s been holding back for far too long and can’t anymore.

“I can’t wait.” he undoes his belt and unzips his jeans.

“Someone could catch us.” You say this as you lift your skirt and take off your jacket. You burn too much for him, you can't reason with yourself.

He lifts you slightly to free his cock from his jeans. Moving your thong to the side, he aligns himself with your entrance and penetrates you in one smooth movement. You cry out as you feel the tip of it touch the bottom of your pussy. You grab his shoulders, Jaehyun is going to take the lead this time, that's for sure. His fingers dig into the flesh of your thighs. His movements are quick and dry at first, he moans at length, it's such a relief for him. “Finally home.”

Your fingers weave into his hair, wrapping a strand around them as you tighten your grip, pulling him even closer. In his arms, you feel weightless, like a doll being held with a mix of tenderness and raw intensity.

His warm breath brushes against your neck, sending shivers down your spine. And in that moment, as his touch grounds you and his presence surrounds you, it hits you—this is what home feels like. He’s your home.

You pull back slightly, just enough to look into his eyes. They’re dark, filled with lust and raw pleasure, a haze of emotion that makes your breath hitch. He looks almost dazed, like someone taking a long-awaited hit after years of restraint.

Unable to resist, you lean in and kiss him passionately, pouring everything into it. The intensity of your connection shifts something in him. His movements slow, becoming more deliberate, more intimate. It’s not just hunger anymore—it’s something deeper, something that lingers in the space between desire and devotion. You were fucking and suddenly you're making love. He intertwine his fingers with yours and caress your hips with his other hand. He can't take his eyes off you. 

“You have no idea how much I missed you,” he murmurs, his voice steady and deep, carrying the weight of all the time you’ve spent apart.

“I’m here now,” you whisper, wrapping your arms around his neck, pulling him close until your forehead rests against his.

“Don’t ever leave again,” he mumbles, his voice breaking slightly. “No matter what we go through. Never again.”

You cup his face gently, your voice soft but resolute. “I’m not going anywhere without you, Jaehyun.”

His movements are regular, and you feel his cock rubbing your walls in the same rhythm. He lightly pinches your ass and you moan. He knows you love it. He gently caress your other hole to stimulate you. You can feel your orgasm rising. He doesn't let go of your neck, which he's working hard on. You'll probably have a bruise by tonight, or several. 

You pull on his hair to signal that your climax is coming. He lifts his head to see you moaning.

“Say my name.” he murmurs.

“Jaehyun, Jaehyun, oh my god Jae yes, yes…” you shout his name until the end of your climax. He closes his eyes and enjoys the moment, his name sounding so good in your mouth.

“Yeah baby, ‘m right here.” He picks up the pace again, his movements becoming urgent and demanding, as if he’s making up for all the lost time.

“Tell me I’m the man of your life, say it,” he commands, his eyes dark and intense. He needs to know where he stands in your heart, in your life, what place he occupies in your eyes.

“You’re the man of my life, there’s only you,” you whisper, gently running your fingers through his hair, wanting him to feel every ounce of love you have for him. You know Jaehyun needs reassurance, to feel cherished and cared for. You’ll say everything he wants to hear.

“We’ll never be apart again,” he murmurs, his eyes now filled with sadness and a quiet desperation.

“No, never again—ah, Jae…” you moan softly, your breath hitching as his touch overwhelms you.

You feel his dick tense up inside you, you know he's close to orgasm. 

“I'm yours, I love you so much.” Jaehyun likes to feel loved and reassured it helps him reach his climax. “You're the man in my life Jae. No one can be you, no one can love me like you and no one can fuck me like you.”

He moans loudly, finally relaxing into you, he's always done it, so why change your habits. He remains in ecstasy for a moment. His forehead is moist. His breathing calms and so does yours, your head resting against his chest. 

"I meant it, you know," you murmur against him, your hand still intertwined with his.

"I know... and so do I. You're the woman of my life. I want everything with you. I want us to get married, I want kids, I want a dog, and the beautiful country house that comes with it."

You look at him, Jaehyun is so much more mature and confident now.

"Why don't we pick up where we left off a few months ago, let's move in together."

"Leave your place tonight, and come stay at mine."

"Are you serious?"

"Completely. I don’t want to wake up a single morning without you. Last night I was going crazy coming home without you. You can bring your stuff gradually, but I’m warning you, you’re not sleeping there unless I’m with you."

You smile and kiss him. "Okay, Mr. Possessive."

"You’re mine, remember? You’re the one who said it."

There was something almost magical in your conversations and glances, something private and intimate that no one could even touch it. You’d end up following him everywhere, whether in Korea or abroad, even when your presence wasn’t necessary. You’d spend hours in practice rooms, working on your laptop, just to be by his side at his request. You never left the building without him; if he was training, you’d wait with a book or finish a few last tasks. If you still had work, he’d crash next to you on your office couch, watching SpongeBob on his phone. Taeyong would bring your favorite sweets from abroad—those you missed from home but couldn’t find here. They’d show up at your office every month. And between breaks, he’d leave you iced jasmine tea, your favorite, just to make sure you stayed hydrated.

Every week, you’d leave a blind box and a drink in his locker, so he’d find them before a tough day. You couldn’t have a meal without him; he knew all your eating habits like you knew his. Better yet, recently, Taeyong had you make a copy of his keys. He wanted you to come and go in his apartment whenever you wanted, “just in case.”

But here’s the thing: it was slowly driving you insane. Your feelings for him became everything, and before you knew it, you were putting him at the center of your world. You realized it when, every time he left, you felt like you couldn’t breathe. You could still feel him everywhere—even when he wasn’t there. Then, recently, you spent the night at his place. You were on the couch, both of you half asleep, and Taeyong pulled you into him, arms around you. Slowly, his touches turned soft, his head resting on the curve of your neck. He was like a kitten, begging for affection.

You found yourself dangerously close to his face, his lips. You hesitated for a second—one move, and your lips would meet his. You don’t know where you found the self-control, but somehow, you managed to pull yourself up and leave his place, pretending you had an important early meeting that forced you to go back and get some sleep.

Taeyong knew you were lying. He knew your schedule better than you knew it yourself. He’d synced it with his, tracking your every move. And he knew.

He tried to get you to stay. “You can sleep here,” he said.

His voice calm, but there was something heavy behind it. You’d slept in the same bed on tour before, dozing off mid-conversation. But this? This wasn’t normal. It wasn’t friendly. And deep down, you knew it wouldn’t end well.

“No, I’m going home.” He sat up on the couch and grabbed your hand before you could even make it to the door. You turned to face him. His eyes were sleepy, focused on your fingers as they intertwined with his.

“Why.” You could hear the disappointment in his voice. And you didn’t know if you could resist it.

“Taeyong, I...” you struggled to find the words. He shot up, standing in front of you now, his gaze pleading. “Just for tonight, and tomorrow we can act like nothing happened.”

You were so close to giving in, but this was just sex he was offering, and you knew that if you crossed that line, your feelings would take on a whole new dimension. “I have to go, sorry.”

You had to set a boundary with your feelings. You hadn’t been hired to fall for him.

Your friendship? That was already a bonus. Above all, you’d fought hard to get to where you were in your career. You couldn’t throw all of that away just for a crush. Even though, deep down, you knew you were already way past the crush stage.

That’s why, a few days, maybe weeks ago, you decided to stop responding to his private messages and calls. You knew his schedule by heart, had access to his calendar online—you knew where and when to be to avoid running into him. You needed space. You needed distance, for both of you. And you felt guilty for Taeyong, wondering what he was thinking on his side. His messages? They hit you hard, made you feel his pain, his confusion.

-Do you need anything? I’m at the grocery store near your place. I can drop something off if you want. - *Photo* Miss u - I left a iced tea on your desk. Hope you have a good day - The practice sessions are so empty without you - Haven’t heard from you much except for your work emails… - I miss you, please answer me

So many messages, so many small gestures that just made your heart ache even more, convincing you that keeping your distance was the right thing to do. You hated doing this to him, but it was slowly discouraging him from texting you. At least, that’s what you hoped.

And tonight? He’s texting you again. You turn around, grabbing your phone, you need to know what he’s saying—it’s visceral, stronger than you. At first, Taeyong respected your space, but after seeing you walk in this morning with Johnny, both of you holding coffees from the same place, he felt like someone had shoved a knife into his chest. This time, his messages were more direct.

- Are you trying to make me pay for that night or do you just not know how to get rid of me, so you’re ghosting me instead?

- I’m sorry, that’s not it. I just need to focus right now, I don’t have time for distractions.

- Miracle, you re answering. Distractions?

- Please don’t take this the wrong way

Tyong’s calling

You don’t answer.

-You’re just gonna ignore me again?

-Taeyong, this... whatever this is between us, it’s not normal. We need some distance.

- What?

- I think some space would be good for us. We need a break.

- Is that what you want?

- It’s what we need.

- Okay.

You know Taeyong doesn’t get it. You also know that if something happens between you two and someone finds out, you’ll lose your job. The worst-case scenario? It leaks outside of the company, and no one would trust you with anything ever again.

The days that followed felt long and gray. You had no interaction with Taeyong anymore and were actively avoiding any direct contact with the 127 members.

But then, one evening, you find your monthly package from Taeyong sitting on your desk. When you meet Irene, someone you’ve become close with since arriving, you feel uneasy. Finding that gesture from him kind of threw you off. Up until now, you hadn’t planned on talking about any of this, but Irene’s an idol, she knows Taeyong well, and if there’s anyone who might understand and listen, it’s her.

“Oh wow, didn’t see that coming.”

“I know, it wasn’t planned at all and—”

“No, I’m not talking about your feelings for Taeyong, I’m talking about your decision.”

“Wait, what? Why?”

“Because I know Taeyong, and if you two cross that line, sure, it could be dangerous for his career, but only if you’re not serious or if you’re not discreet. And that’s not him. He’d do anything to protect you and protect your relationship from outside eyes.”

“How can you be sure about that?” You’re a little shaken by what she’s just said.

“Because, again, I know him. And I think you should give him a chance, trust him to handle this situation. If there’s one person who can pull it off, it’s him. And I really think he’d want to take that risk with you.”

“How can you say that? You had no idea about this situation before tonight.”

“Of course I did. Everyone close to 127 knows about the... unusual chemistry you two have developed.”

“Oh—”

Irene’s words keep replaying in your head. The part where she says Taeyong could manage and protect you both doesmake you want to believe in it. You know there’s a version of this story where he could truly enter a relationship with you, where you’d fall in love.

But the part where she says others have already noticed the chemistry between you two makes you uneasy. That’s proof enough that you’re putting yourselves in danger by staying so close. It’s all too much to process, and you almost want to text him to talk about it, but you drop the idea.

You don’t have the strength to deal with it tonight. Tomorrow’s a big event for the company, and there will be tons of people there. You’ve planned to focus and avoid any NCT members as much as possible.

When you arrive at the event, a lot of people are already there. That was the goal: arrive as late as possible to make sure the place is packed and you won’t run into a single 127 member who’d stop to make small talk, eventually bringing the others, including Taeyong, into the mix. Of course, you can count on Mark and Haechan, who spot you at the entrance and immediately drag you to their table.

“Why haven’t you been around lately?”

“Are you avoiding us?” Haechan chimes in. “Or worse, do you not like us anymore?”

“That’s exactly it. I’ve always thought your music was awful, and now I’m realizing you’re terrible people too,”

“No, seriously, why don’t you come see us in practice anymore?” Deep down, they all know it’s about Taeyong. When it’s you, it’s always about him.

“I’ve just been swamped with work, I’m sorry. I don’t have as much time as before.”

Taeyong’s been watching you from across the table since you sat down, his gaze sharp. You’re lying, and even though he knows you can’t tell the truth, it still annoys him. You choose to ignore his reactions. It’s for the best.

The night goes on, and you decide to call it a night when you see that most people are starting to leave, and the alcohol’s kicked in. Over everything else, you can feel Taeyong’s eyes on you all night. You can’t take it anymore. Every time you turn your head, you inevitably lock eyes with him. His gaze is filled with desire and sadness. He’s unavoidable.

You’re sitting in a corner chatting with Ten and Irene when the song No Manners starts. Taeyong’s in the middle of a conversation with some other artists, but his eyes never leave you.

God, he wishes he were in Ten’s place.

He’d give anything to be close to you. It kills him that you’ve barely had any interaction tonight. Some time ago, you wouldn’t have left each other’s side the entire evening, and he would’ve taken you home, just the two of you, talking for hours in your little cocoon.

You look up at him when Ten sings, looking straight at him. And you don’t know if it’s the alcohol or the fact that you’re holding his gaze, but you feel an unbearable pull toward him. Your heart races, and you’re breathing heavier, like you’re too warm.

He makes you feel hot. His eyes, filled with longing and emotions, set your body on fire. Now that he’s finally got your attention, he gives you a small nod, as if to say, come join me. He wants to talk to you, just the two of you.

It would be so much easier to resist him if he weren’t looking so damn good tonight—in that silk, low-cut black blouse, the jewelry that makes him shine, and those jeans that highlight his long, lean frame.

You want to go to him, but you don’t feel sober enough to face him like this.

You’re not free from him yet, not enough to withstand this kind of moment.

“Honestly, no one’s ever going to forget that iconic performance from Taeyong,” Ten says, like a dagger to your chest.

It’s only the beginning of the song, and you decide to leave before hearing his voice. You wave goodbye to your friends and quickly make your exit. You completely ignore Taeyong as you pass by him. He feels it like a shockwave. It’s too much for him. How long are you going to play this game? He knows you want him too. He always felt it. At least, he hopes he’s not wrong.

He takes your place between Ten and Irene, rests his head in his hands, and sighs desperately. She taps his shoulder.

"What are you waiting for? Go catch her."

"She doesn't want us to have any contact anymore, you can see she's ignoring me."

"Because she can't resist you, that's obvious." He glares at her. "Seriously Taeyong, do I really need to tell you that this girl is crazy about you? She's just trying to avoid trouble with the hierarchy."

"Wait, is that why?"

"Trust me Taeyong, she's crazy about you. She's just afraid you two won't be able to handle it, so go after her and prove to her that you can be the man she needs and protect her. Take the lead."

Taeyong stares at her for a second and then gets up faster than ever to chase after you. Ten looks at Irene. "Well, here we go."

He finds you in the hallway, the music still thumping in the background.

“Y/n!” He calls out, with some urgence.

“Not now, Taeyong.”

He doesn’t leave room for hesitation. Irene told him to take the lead, and he’s determined to prove he can carry you through this.

You don’t even have time to breathe before his hand clamps around your waist, spinning you and pinning you to the wall like it’s the easiest thing in the world.

“Taeyong—”

“Shut up.” His voice is a low growl, so close you can feel his breath against you, and it’s driving you wild. He holds your gaze, searching for any sign of resistance.

But your eyes tell him everything he needs to know—you want him to stay, you want him to finish what he started.

Taeyong doesn’t hesitate. The music is loud, but the timing feels almost too perfect—his part begins. He inches closer, his lips dangerously close to yours, the air heavy with tension.

“Dancing on my backseat, You look so yeah senchi.”

His forehead presses to yours, his words soft yet filled with meaning as he murmurs, “Got me comma, commas I’m addicted to you, toxic.”

You don’t really get what’s happening, but you know you love it, and damn, it feels so good—way too good. You have no desire, no strength left to resist him. He slides his hands over your waist and grasps them firmly with his fingers to arch you over and press you fully against him.

This leads you to feel his boner against you. And oh god, there’s no denying it—this moment hits Taeyong just as hard as it hits you.

You let out a soft moan.

“Naege dallyeo naneun dalliji Put the pedal to the metal maedalliji neoye maeryeok You the answer, never question urin eopji got no manners ppittakhage neoneun naenshi nan shideu.”

One of his hands slides up to your neck, his long fingers wrapping around it effortlessly. Then, his palm cradles your jaw as his thumb brushes your cheek, finally resting on your lower lip. His narrowed eyes lock onto yours.

“Urin beautiful neomu beautiful, Don’t say thank you or nothing, Criminal so cynical.”

He leans into your neck, his lips trailing along your skin as he keeps murmuring against you, each word feeling like a kiss. You sigh with pleasure.

“But we need to learn some manners, bichi na bichi na.” His mouth hovers over yours. “I’m addicted to you, toxic, I’m addicted to you, toxic.” he murmurs those last words.

His eyes glazed with desire, he pulls his thumb away from your lip and presses his mouth to yours.

Your body reacts instantly to his. But the sound of heels echoing nearby pulls you out of your daze. You break the kiss—well, almost.

“Taeyong, wait, stop, just a second.”

He keeps kissing along your cheeks. “What now?”

“This isn’t a good-ahh—”

He cuts you off by sucking on your neck, pressing you harder against the wall as he hikes your leg up against him. He murmurs against your lips,

“Remind me why we’re taking a break from each other. Hmm? It’s obviously insane. I think we both know what we want.” He pulls back to look into your eyes. “It’s obvious to everyone but you that we’re falling in love, so just let go and fall with me.”

You’re speechless. To hell with your job—there’s only one Lee Taeyong.

You slide your hand up his neck and crash your lips against his. You feel like you’ve waited a lifetime for this. His hands are everywhere on you, and you never want him to let go.

The kiss grows more urgent, the two of you like starving people finally given a taste of chocolate. Your arms wrap around his neck, clinging to him like your life depends on it.

He slows the pace. “I know I started this, but we should go somewhere more private.”

You steal one more kiss, unable to fully break away. “Yeah, you’re right.”

You keep kissing, lost in it, until he breaks away with a breathless little laugh.

“Y/n, we really need to get out of here.”

“Yeah, sorry.”

He grabs your hand, as you runaway like two child. Once you arrive at his place, you barely make it through the door before you wrap your arms around him from behind, resting your head against his back. He grips your arms, holding you close.

“I can’t believe you wanted to deprive us of this,” he murmurs. He turns around to face you, cupping your face with his hands. “I won’t let anything come between us, you have to trust me. Not at work, not in our private lives. I’ll protect you and I’ll protect us from the rest of the world, from prying eyes. Since you walked into my life, you’ve been my priority. How could you not see that?”

You feel so bad for pushing him away for so long.

“I’m sorry. You’re my priority too. And I want you more than anything.”

“Don’t push me away again, unless you’re sure you don’t want me anymore.” He finally kisses you, his lips somehow even sweeter than before. His touch is confident and firm, as if he’s trying to imprint you onto his skin.

Your jacket falls to the floor as Taeyong’s fingers trace along the straps of your dress. He slides them off your shoulders, and your dress drops to the ground.

You find yourself standing there in your underwear in front of him, and he takes a moment to just admire you.

His tongue slips into your mouth, and between kisses, he asks, “Tell me, what do you want right now? I want to show you how well I can take care of you.”

You look at him, captivated by how far Taeyong seems willing to go for you, for your pleasure. You blush, hesitating to answer. He smile softly

. “You’ve got something on your mind, but you’re too shy to ask.”

You shake your head, too embarrassed to admit it. He plants soft kisses along your neck and wraps his arms around you with such passion.

“Tell me. You know you can ask me for anything.”

“It’s about earlier…”

He looks at you, intrigued, and a spark flashes in his eyes. He smirk, shaking his head—he knows.

“Your desire is my command. ”

He picks you up like you weigh nothing, laying you down on the carpet with a kind of quiet urgency. His lips trail lower and lower, from the heat of your neck to the soft skin of your belly.

You moan; it feels so good.

Then he sits up to take off his shirt. He pulls away just enough to get into position, his eyes never leaving yours.

And under your mesmerized gaze, he starts his No Manners choreography.

When his hands graze around you, a shiver runs down your spine, watching him do this so close to you.

And then the moment you’ve been craving finally comes—he grinds against you in that wave-like move that’s haunted your thoughts so many times. He finishes with a deep, passionate kiss.

“This is what you wanted, isn’t it?”

“Yes,” you moan.

“See? I know you better than anyone. I can take care of you, love.”

“Pleease, Taeyong, take care of me.”

“Of course.”

You turn, face down and arch your back to present him your ass. You want him to take you now. He presses himself against you, growling softly in your ear as he kisses your shoulder, all while sliding his pants and your panties down. He aligns his dick with your entrance and slowly penetrates you. You feel every inch of him slowly pushing inside you, and the movement feels just as sensual as it does romantic.

Taeyong brushes your hair out of your face, his fingers gentle as he plants soft kisses along your cheek. “You’re so beautiful.”

He sighs in pleasure as he starts to move, finding a rhythm that has you melting beneath him. His little moans send you to another dimension.

You’d always wondered what Taeyong would be like in bed, and a part of you was convinced he was a switch—which secretly drove you wild. You also had a feeling he’d be sensitive.

And you were right. You could feel it in every touch, firm yet achingly tender. His movements become smoother and more fluid, and you feel his cock surge inside you, he's going to cum, already, you feel it.

He pulls out and lets out a shaky breath.

You whine as you turn to face him. “Nooo, what are you doing?”

Running a hand through his hair, he gives you an embarrassed smile. “I’m gonna come if I keep going, Y/n. It’s been too long—I need to pace myself if you want this to last.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll find a way to get you going again.” You crawl toward him on all fours, and his eyes widen, completely captivated by your every move.

You lean against his thighs, gently wrap your fingers around his sex and start pumping him up and down.

His head falls back, overwhelmed by the intense pleasure coursing through him.

You watch his face contort with bliss, and the sight alone satisfies you—but you crave more.

Leaning in closer, you start by kissing his tip, then wrap your mouth around his all dick. Taeyong moans in pleasure, his high-pitched whimpers are like music to your ears.

He looks down at you, completely lost in his bliss.

His hand rests on your head—not to push, just to feel connected to you. Your pace steadies, and you tighten your mouth around him. You catch it the moment you feel his whole body tense up. His breath is all ragged.

“Y/n, I m gonna cum, you need to pull away." He places a gentle hand on your cheek.

You look at him and tighten your lips, not letting go.

It's an invitation to come in your mouth. You can see tears in his eyes and god it turns you even more.

“Oh my- aahh Y/n…I can’t hold back, sorry."

He comes within a second. And you don’t take your eyes off him, to catch this moment. You swallow everything he gives you.

Then you release his cock in a lil pop.

He opens his eyes again, all groggy and satisfied, then leans in to kiss you.

"Thank you... that was incredible."

You smile against his lips. "This is just the beginning."

You're back to pumping his dick. Taeyong flinches and lets out a whimper, “It’s sensitive.”

“I know baby, but you told me you’ll take care of me right?”

“Of course I will..oh”

His body’s shaking—you’re overstimulating him.

“Let me eat you, please.” he's pleading you.

“No, I want you inside of me.” You can't wait anymore

He rests his forehead against yours, his hand wrapping around the back of your neck. “Oh my- I’ll never get enough of you.”

He slides two fingers over your folds and penetrates you with one thrust. You flinch and cry out as you feel his fingers thrust into you.

“Here, you wanted to feel me inside of you.”

His hands are quick and firm, his fingering you in a way you could never touch yourself.

You feel the tension building inside you. Gripping his shoulders, straddling him, you try to hold yourself steady. But your body’s shaking—what Taeyong’s doing to you is too intense, too much for you to handle.

"Yong, I can’t stand…” 

“It’s ok, I got you”

He plants a soft kiss at the corner of your lips. Your grip on his shoulders loosens—your arms can’t hold on anymore. As you start to fall back, he catches you, pulling you close. You melt into his embrace, and just like that, you feel more than safe; you feel like you truly belong, right there with him. Your orgasm transcends you; you've never had one so strong that it had such an effect on you.

When you open your eyes, you see Taeyong completely mesmerized by what he's looking at down below, he's already starting to jerk off again. You just squirted. You didn't knex you could do that.

You blush, feeling horribly embarrassed for ruining his carpet.

“Oh my god Tae, I’m confused.”

He bites his lip. “Will you do it again ?”

“Well…it’s up to you.” 

You blush a little when Taeyong catches your gaze, surprised, and you smile at him. “I’ve never done this before, not alone, and definitely not with any other guy.”

He kisses you, deep and slow, proud of what you just said. “Told you, no one can take care of you like I can.”

“I want more Taeyong.” you whisper.

He pulls you into his arms, lifting you effortlessly, taking you to the bedroom. Lying on the bed, you watch him, wondering how you ever thought you could live without him.

He lays on top of you, movements soft and tender. He traps your face between his arms, showering you with gentle kisses all over. Your hands wander down his back, nails scratching lightly.

He shivers. And just like in the living room before, he slowly penetrates you so that you feel every inch of it enter you. You dig your nails into his skin, and he lets out a soft moan. He finds a steady rhythm, gently placing a hand on your cheek, almost tenderly. He kisses you, slow and deep, before pulling away to look at you. His backstrokes are strong and sure, you're in nirvana. 

He lifts you, sitting you on top of him. Now you're straddling him, sitting on his lap, wrapping your arms around him as you face him. He put his hand against your pussy and the friction of your clitoris against his fingers build a new orgasm that hit you so hard. 

Taeyong buries his face in the crook of your neck, letting out the softest moan. You find those sounds as sexy as they are adorable. You know you’ll never be able to get enough of them. His body turns warm, his breath shallow. He starts mumbling softly against your neck.

"I'm going to cum, Y/n, I'm sorry."

“Don’t be, just enjoy, my love, that’s all I want.”

He moans, tightening his grip around your waist as he hears your words. You feel all his muscles tense, and Taeyong lifts you slightly to pull away. He jerk, still hidden in your neck, pressed against you. And finishes with a soft groan, he murmured your name, while painting your belly with his hot cum. 

You still hold him in your arms, cuddling him.

His orgasm was strong, you can feel it. For Taeyong, it's months of frustration finally being satisfied.

He lays you down and settles against you. His misty eyes study you intently.

“I thought you’d never come back to me.”

“I know, me too...”

He runs a hand through your hair and props himself up on his elbow. “I hated it. It killed me, you became the greatest part of my life.” He kisses you deeply. “I missed you. I missed you so damn much.”

“I missed you too, I’m sorry.”

“Then it’s okay, you trust me now?”

You nod, silently agreeing.

“Either way, you don’t have a choice. I won’t let you go this time. And I know exactly how to convince you to give in. No manners, right?" he smirk, making fun of you. "Didn’t know that performance would have this effect on you.”

You blush slightly. “Oh shut up.”

“I’ll do this every night if that’s what you want, my love.” He kisses you again.

“You’ll take care of me, right?” you smile.

“I will, as long as you let me.”

-

In the week that follows, you and Taeyong fall back into your routine. And, of course, in private, it’s much more.

One evening in the practice room, you joke around with Haechan while Taeyong watches you, completely in awe.

"So, everything’s good between you two now?"

Taeyong smiles like a little kid. "Yeah, she just needed me to reassure her. And that’s exactly what I did. I said what needed to be said." He pauses when you look at him, his heart racing for you. He joins you, wrapping his arms around you from behind while you laugh with the others.

You push him away, but not really trying.

"Taeyong, we talk about discretion. Not in front of everyone..."

He pouts, then playfully smacks your cheek.

"I know but..between us, no manners” he whimpers in your ears.

There was something almost magical in your conversations and glances, something private and intimate that no one could even touch it. You’d end up following him everywhere, whether in Korea or abroad, even when your presence wasn’t necessary. You’d spend hours in practice rooms, working on your laptop, just to be by his side at his request. You never left the building without him; if he was training, you’d wait with a book or finish a few last tasks. If you still had work, he’d crash next to you on your office couch, watching SpongeBob on his phone. Taeyong would bring your favorite sweets from abroad—those you missed from home but couldn’t find here. They’d show up at your office every month. And between breaks, he’d leave you iced jasmine tea, your favorite, just to make sure you stayed hydrated.

Every week, you’d leave a blind box and a drink in his locker, so he’d find them before a tough day. You couldn’t have a meal without him; he knew all your eating habits like you knew his. Better yet, recently, Taeyong had you make a copy of his keys. He wanted you to come and go in his apartment whenever you wanted, “just in case.”

But here’s the thing: it was slowly driving you insane. Your feelings for him became everything, and before you knew it, you were putting him at the center of your world. You realized it when, every time he left, you felt like you couldn’t breathe. You could still feel him everywhere—even when he wasn’t there. Then, recently, you spent the night at his place. You were on the couch, both of you half asleep, and Taeyong pulled you into him, arms around you. Slowly, his touches turned soft, his head resting on the curve of your neck. He was like a kitten, begging for affection.

You found yourself dangerously close to his face, his lips. You hesitated for a second—one move, and your lips would meet his. You don’t know where you found the self-control, but somehow, you managed to pull yourself up and leave his place, pretending you had an important early meeting that forced you to go back and get some sleep.

Taeyong knew you were lying. He knew your schedule better than you knew it yourself. He’d synced it with his, tracking your every move. And he knew. He tried to get you to stay. “You can sleep here,” he said. His voice calm, but there was something heavy behind it. You’d slept in the same bed on tour before, dozing off mid-conversation. But this? This wasn’t normal. It wasn’t friendly. And deep down, you knew it wouldn’t end well.

“No, I’m going home.” He sat up on the couch and grabbed your hand before you could even make it to the door. You turned to face him. His eyes were sleepy, focused on your fingers as they intertwined with his. “Why.” You could hear the disappointment in his voice. And you didn’t know if you could resist it. “Taeyong, I...” you struggled to find the words. He shot up, standing in front of you now, his gaze pleading. “Just for tonight, and tomorrow we can act like nothing happened.” You were so close to giving in, but this was just sex he was offering, and you knew that if you crossed that line, your feelings would take on a whole new dimension. “I have to go, sorry.”

You had to set a boundary with your feelings. You hadn’t been hired to fall for him. Your friendship? That was already a bonus. Above all, you’d fought hard to get to where you were in your career. You couldn’t throw all of that away just for a crush. Even though, deep down, you knew you were already way past the crush stage. That’s why, a few days, maybe weeks ago, you decided to stop responding to his private messages and calls. You knew his schedule by heart, had access to his calendar online—you knew where and when to be to avoid running into him. You needed space. You needed distance, for both of you. And you felt guilty for Taeyong, wondering what he was thinking on his side. His messages? They hit you hard, made you feel his pain, his confusion.

-Do you need anything? I’m at the grocery store near your place. I can drop something off if you want. - *Photo* Miss u - I left a iced tea on your desk. Hope you have a good day - The practice sessions are so empty without you - Haven’t heard from you much except for your work emails… - I miss you, please answer me

So many messages, so many small gestures that just made your heart ache even more, convincing you that keeping your distance was the right thing to do. You hated doing this to him, but it was slowly discouraging him from texting you. At least, that’s what you hoped.

And tonight? He’s texting you again. You turn around, grabbing your phone, you need to know what he’s saying—it’s visceral, stronger than you. At first, Taeyong respected your space, but after seeing you walk in this morning with Johnny, both of you holding coffees from the same place, he felt like someone had shoved a knife into his chest. This time, his messages were more direct.

- Are you trying to make me pay for that night or do you just not know how to get rid of me, so you’re ghosting me instead?

- I’m sorry, that’s not it. I just need to focus right now, I don’t have time for distractions.

- Miracle, you respond. Distractions?

- Please don’t take this the wrong way

Tyong’s calling

You don’t answer.

-You’re just gonna ignore me again?

-Taeyong, this... whatever this is between us, it’s not normal. We need some distance.

- What?

- I think some space would be good for us. We need a break.

- Is that what you want?

- It’s what we need.

- Okay.

You know Taeyong doesn’t get it. You also know that if something happens between you two and someone finds out, you’ll lose your job. The worst-case scenario? It leaks outside of the company, and no one would trust you with anything ever again.

The days that followed felt long and gray. You had no interaction with Taeyong anymore and were actively avoiding any direct contact with the 127 members. But then, one evening, you find your monthly package from Taeyong sitting on your desk. When you meet Irene, someone you’ve become close with since arriving, you feel uneasy. Finding that gesture from him kind of threw you off. Up until now, you hadn’t planned on talking about any of this, but Irene’s an idol, she knows Taeyong well, and if there’s anyone who might understand and listen, it’s her.

“Oh wow, didn’t see that coming.” “I know, it wasn’t planned at all and—” “No, I’m not talking about your feelings for Taeyong, I’m talking about your decision.” “Wait, what? Why?” “Because I know Taeyong, and if you two cross that line, sure, it could be dangerous for his career, but only if you’re not serious or if you’re not discreet. And that’s not him. He’d do anything to protect you and protect your relationship from outside eyes.” “How can you be sure about that?” You’re a little shaken by what she’s just said. “Because, again, I know him. And I think you should give him a chance, trust him to handle this situation. If there’s one person who can pull it off, it’s him. And I really think he’d want to take that risk with you.” “How can you say that? You had no idea about this situation before tonight.” “Of course I did. Everyone close to 127 knows about the... unusual chemistry you two have developed.” “Oh—”

Irene’s words keep replaying in your head. The part where she says Taeyong could manage and protect you both doesmake you want to believe in it. You know there’s a version of this story where he could truly enter a relationship with you, where you’d fall in love. But the part where she says others have already noticed the chemistry between you two makes you uneasy. That’s proof enough that you’re putting yourselves in danger by staying so close. It’s all too much to process, and you almost want to text him to talk about it, but you drop the idea. You don’t have the strength to deal with it tonight. Tomorrow’s a big event for the company, and there will be tons of people there. You’ve planned to focus and avoid any NCT members as much as possible.

When you arrive at the event, a lot of people are already there. That was the goal: arrive as late as possible to make sure the place is packed and you won’t run into a single 127 member who’d stop to make small talk, eventually bringing the others, including Taeyong, into the mix. Of course, you can count on Mark and Haechan, who spot you at the entrance and immediately drag you to their table. “Why haven’t you been around lately?” “Are you avoiding us?” Haechan chimes in. “Or worse, do you not like us anymore?” “That’s exactly it. I’ve always thought your music was awful, and now I’m realizing you’re terrible people too,” you joke. “No, seriously, why don’t you come see us in practice anymore?” Deep down, they all know it’s about Taeyong. When it’s you, it’s always about him. “I’ve just been swamped with work, I’m sorry. I don’t have as much time as before.” Taeyong’s been watching you from across the table since you sat down, his gaze sharp. You’re lying, and even though he knows you can’t tell the truth, it still annoys him. You choose to ignore his reactions. It’s for the best. The night goes on, and you decide to call it a night when you see that most people are starting to leave, and the alcohol’s kicked in. Over everything else, you can feel Taeyong’s eyes on you all night. You can’t take it anymore. Every time you turn your head, you inevitably lock eyes with him. His gaze is filled with desire and sadness. He’s unavoidable. You’re sitting in a corner chatting with Ten and Irene when the song No Manners starts. Taeyong’s in the middle of talking to some other artists, but his eyes never leave you. God, he wishes he were in Ten’s place. He’d give anything to be close to you. It kills him that you’ve barely had any interaction tonight. Before, you wouldn’t have left each other’s side the entire evening, and he would’ve taken you home, just the two of you, talking for hours in your little cocoon. You look up at him when Ten sings, looking straight at him. And you don’t know if it’s the alcohol or the fact that you’re holding his gaze, but you feel an unbearable pull toward him. Your heart races, and you’re breathing heavier, like you’re too warm. He makes you feel hot. His eyes, filled with longing and emotions, set your body on fire. Now that he’s finally got your attention, he gives you a small nod, as if to say, come join me. He wants to talk to you, just the two of you. It would be so much easier to resist him if he weren’t looking so damn good tonight—in that silk, low-cut black blouse, the jewelry that makes him shine, and those jeans that highlight his long, lean frame. You want to go to him, but you don’t feel sober enough to face him like this. You’re not free from him yet, not enough to withstand this kind of moment. “Honestly, no one’s ever going to forget that iconic performance from Taeyong,” Ten says, like a dagger to your chest. It’s only the beginning of the song, and you decide to leave before hearing his voice. You wave goodbye to your friends and quickly make your exit. You completely ignore Taeyong as you pass by him. He feels it like a shockwave. It’s too much for him. How long are you going to play this game? He knows you want him too. He’s always felt it. At least, he hopes he’s not wrong.

He takes your place between Ten and Irene, rests his head in his hands, and sighs desperately. She taps his shoulder. "What are you waiting for? Go catch her." "She doesn't want us to have any contact anymore, you can see she's ignoring me." "Because she can't resist you, that's obvious." He glares at her. "Seriously Taeyong, do I really need to tell you that this girl is crazy about you? She's just trying to avoid trouble with the hierarchy." "Wait, is that why?" "Trust me Taeyong, she's crazy about you. She's just afraid you two won't be able to handle it, so go after her and prove to her that you can be the man she needs and protect her. Take the lead."

Taeyong stares at her for a second and then gets up faster than ever to chase after you. Ten looks at Irene. "Well, here we go."

He finds you in the hallway, the music still thumping in the background.

“Y/n!” He calls out, voice urgent.

“Not now, Taeyong.”

But he doesn’t give you a choice. Irene just told him to take the lead, and he’s determined to prove he can handle this.

Before you can even process, he grabs you by the waist and spins you around, slamming you against the wall.

“Taeyong—”

“Shut up.” His voice is a low growl, so close you can feel his breath against you, and it’s driving you wild. He holds your gaze, searching for any sign of resistance. But your eyes tell him everything he needs to know—you want him to stay, you want him to finish what he started.

Taeyong doesn’t hesitate. The music is loud, but the timing feels almost too perfect—his part begins. He inches closer, his lips dangerously close to yours, the air heavy with tension.

“Dancing on my backseat, You look so yeah senchi.”

His forehead presses to yours, his words soft yet filled with meaning as he murmurs, “Got me comma, commas I’m addicted to you, toxic.”

You don’t really get what’s happening, but you know you love it, and damn, it feels so good—way too good. You have no desire, no strength left to resist him. He slides his hands over your waist and grasps them firmly with his fingers to arch you over and press you fully against him. This leads you to feel his boner against you. And oh god, there’s no denying it—this moment hits Taeyong just as hard as it hits you.

You let out a soft moan.

“Naege dallyeo naneun dalliji Put the pedal to the metal maedalliji neoye maeryeok You the answer, never question urin eopji got no manners ppittakhage neoneun naenshi nan shideu.”

One of his hands slides up to your neck, his long fingers wrapping around it effortlessly. Then, his palm cradles your jaw as his thumb brushes your cheek, finally resting on your lower lip. His narrowed eyes lock onto yours.

“Urin beautiful neomu beautiful, Don’t say thank you or nothing, Criminal so cynical.”

He leans into your neck, his lips trailing along your skin as he keeps murmuring against you, each word feeling like a kiss. You sigh with pleasure.

“But we need to learn some manners, bichi na bichi na.” His mouth hovers over yours. “I’m addicted to you, toxic, I’m addicted to you, toxic.” he murmurs those last words.

His eyes glazed with desire, he pulls his thumb away from your lip and presses his mouth to yours. Your body reacts instantly to his. But the sound of heels echoing nearby pulls you out of your daze. You break the kiss—well, almost.

“Taeyong, wait, stop, just a second.”

He keeps kissing along your cheeks. “What now?”

“This isn’t a good-ahh—”

He cuts you off by sucking on your neck, pressing you harder against the wall as he hikes your leg up against him. He murmurs against your lips, “Remind me why we’re taking a break from each other. Hmm? It’s oviously insane. I think we both know what we want.” He pulls back to look into your eyes. “It’s obvious to everyone but you that we’re falling in love, so just let go and fall with me.”

You’re speechless. To hell with your job—there’s only one Lee Taeyong. You slide your hand up his neck and crash your lips against his. You feel like you’ve waited a lifetime for this. His hands are everywhere on you, and you never want him to let go. The kiss grows more urgent, the two of you like starving people finally given a taste of chocolate. Your arms wrap around his neck, clinging to him like your life depends on it.

He slows the pace. “I know I started this, but we should go somewhere more private.”

You steal one more kiss, unable to fully break away. “Yeah, you’re right.”

You keep kissing for another moment before he laughs. “Y/n, we really need to get out of here.”

“Yeah, sorry.”

He grabs your hand, as you runaway like two child. Once you arrive at his place, you barely make it through the door before you wrap your arms around him from behind, resting your head against his back. He grips your arms, holding you close.

“I can’t believe you wanted to deprive us of this,” he murmurs. He turns around to face you, cupping your face with his hands. “I won’t let anything come between us, you have to trust me. Not at work, not in our private lives. I’ll protect you and I’ll protect us from the rest of the world, from prying eyes. Since you walked into my life, you’ve been my priority. How could you not see that?”

“I’m sorry. You’re my priority too. And I want you more than anything.”

“Don’t push me away again, unless you’re sure you don’t want me anymore.” He finally kisses you, his lips somehow even sweeter than before. His touch is confident and firm, as if he’s trying to imprint you onto his skin.

Your jacket falls to the floor as Taeyong’s fingers trace along the straps of your dress. He slides them off your shoulders, and your dress drops to the ground.

You find yourself standing there in your underwear in front of him, and he takes a moment to just admire you. His tongue slips into your mouth, and between kisses, he asks, “Tell me, what do you want right now? I want to show you how well I can take care of you.”

You look at him, captivated by how far Taeyong seems willing to go for you, for your pleasure. You blush, hesitating to answer. He smile softly. “You’ve got something on your mind, but you’re too shy to ask.”

You shake your head, too embarrassed to admit it. He plants soft kisses along your neck and wraps his arms around you with such passion. “Tell me. You know you can ask me for anything.”

“It’s about earlier…” He looks at you, intrigued, and a spark flashes in his eyes. He smirk, shaking his head—he knows. “Your desire is my command.”

He lifts you effortlessly and carries you to the living room, laying you down on the carpet. His kisses trail down your body, from your neck to your belly button.

You moan; it feels so good. Then he sits up to take off his shirt. He pulls away just enough to get into position, his eyes never leaving yours. And under your mesmerized gaze, he starts his No Manners choreography.

When his hands graze around you, a shiver runs down your spine, watching him do this so close to you. And then the moment you’ve been craving finally comes—he grinds against you in that wave-like move that’s haunted your thoughts so many times. He finishes with a deep, passionate kiss.

“This is what you wanted, isn’t it?”

“Yes,” you moan.

“See? I know you better than anyone. I can take care of you, love.”

“Pleease, Taeyong, take care of me.”

“Of course.”

You turn, face down and arch your back to present him your ass. You want him to take you now. He presses himself against you, growling softly in your ear as he kisses your shoulder, all while sliding his pants and your panties down. He aligns his dick with your entrance and slowly penetrates you. You feel every inch of him slowly pushing inside you, and the movement feels just as sensual as it does romantic.

Taeyong brushes your hair out of your face, his fingers gentle as he plants soft kisses along your cheek. “You’re so beautiful.”

He sighs in pleasure as he starts to move, finding a rhythm that has you melting beneath him. His little moans send you to another dimension.

You’d always wondered what Taeyong would be like in bed, and a part of you was convinced he was a switch—which secretly drove you wild. You also had a feeling he’d be sensitive. And you were right. You could feel it in every touch, firm yet achingly tender. His movements become smoother and more fluid, and you feel his cock surge inside you, he's going to cum, already, you feel it.

He pulls out and lets out a shaky breath. You whine as you turn to face him. “Nooo, what are you doing?”

Running a hand through his hair, he gives you an embarrassed smile. “I’m gonna come if I keep going, Y/n. It’s been too long—I need to pace myself if you want this to last.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll find a way to get you going again.” You crawl toward him on all fours, and his eyes widen, completely captivated by your every move.

You lean against his thighs, gently wrap your fingers around his sex and start pumping him up and down.

His head falls back, overwhelmed by the intense pleasure coursing through him. You watch his face contort with bliss, and the sight alone satisfies you—but you crave more. Leaning in closer, you start by kissing his tip, then wrap your mouth around his all dick. Taeyong moans in pleasure, his high-pitched whimpers are like music to your ears.

He looks down at you, completely lost in his bliss. His hand rests on your head—not to push, just to feel connected to you. Your pace steadies, and you tighten your mouth around him. You catch it the moment you feel his whole body tense up. His breath is all ragged.

“Y/n, I gonna cum, you need to pull away." He places a gentle hand on your cheek.

You look at him and tighten your lips, not letting go. It's an invitation to come in your mouth. You can see tears in his eyes and god it turns you even more.

“Oh my- aahh Y/n…I can’t hold back, sorry."

He comes within a second. And you don’t take your eyes off him, to catch this moment. You swallow everything he gives you. You release his cock in a lil pop.

He opens his eyes again, all groggy and satisfied, then leans in to kiss you.

"Thank you... that was incredible."

You smile against his lips. "This is just the beginning."

You're back to pumping his dick. Taeyong flinches and lets out a whimper, “It’s sensitive.”

“I know baby, but you told me you’ll take care of me right?”

“Of course I will..oh”

His body’s shaking—you’re overstimulating him.

“Let me eat you, please.” he's pleading you.

“No, I want you inside of me.” You can't wait anymore

He rests his forehead against yours, his hand wrapping around the back of your neck. “Oh my- I’ll never get enough of you.”

He slides two fingers over your folds and penetrates you with one thrust. You flinch and cry out as you feel his fingers thrust into you.

“Here, you wanted to feel me inside of you.”

His hands are quick and firm, his fingering you in a way you could never touch yourself.

You feel the tension building inside you. Gripping his shoulders, straddling him, you try to hold yourself steady. But your body’s shaking—what Taeyong’s doing to you is too intense, too much for you to handle.

"Yong, I can’t stand…” 

“It’s ok, I got you”

He plants a soft kiss at the corner of your lips. Your grip on his shoulders loosens—your arms can’t hold on anymore. As you start to fall back, he catches you, pulling you close. You melt into his embrace, and just like that, you feel more than safe; you feel like you truly belong, right there with him. Your orgasm transcends you; you've never had one so strong that it had such an effect on you.

When you open your eyes, you see Taeyong completely mesmerized by what he's looking at down below, he's already starting to jerk off again. You just squirted. You didn't knex you could do that.

You blush, feeling horribly embarrassed for ruining his carpet.

“Oh my god Tae, I’m confused.”

He bites his lip. “Will you do it again ?”

“Well…it’s up to you.” 

You blush a little when Taeyong catches your gaze, surprised, and you smile at him. “I’ve never done this before, not alone, and definitely not with any other guy.”

He kisses you, deep and slow, proud of what you just said. “Told you, no one can take care of you like I can.”

“I want more Taeyong.” you whisper.

He pulls you into his arms, lifting you effortlessly, taking you to the bedroom. Lying on the bed, you watch him, wondering how you ever thought you could live without him.

He lays on top of you, movements soft and tender. He traps your face between his arms, showering you with gentle kisses all over. Your hands wander down his back, nails scratching lightly. He shivers. And just like in the living room before, he slowly penetrates you so that you feel every inch of it enter you. You dig your nails into his skin, and he lets out a soft moan. He finds a steady rhythm, gently placing a hand on your cheek, almost tenderly. He kisses you, slow and deep, before pulling away to look at you. His backstrokes are strong and sure, you're in nirvana. 

He lifts you, sitting you on top of him. Now you're straddling him, sitting on his lap, wrapping your arms around him as you face him. He put his hand against your pussy and the friction of your clitoris against his fingers provokes a new orgasm that hit you so hard. 

Taeyong buries his face in the crook of your neck, letting out the softest moan. You find those sounds as sexy as they are adorable. You know you’ll never be able to get enough of them. His body turns warm, his breath shallow. He starts mumbling softly against your neck.

"I'm going to cum, Y/n, I'm sorry."

“Don’t be, just enjoy, my love, that’s all I want.”

He moans, tightening his grip around your waist as he hears your words. You feel all his muscles tense, and Taeyong lifts you slightly to pull away. He jerk, still hidden in your neck, pressed against you. And finishes with a soft groan, he murmured your name, while painting your belly with his hot cum. 

You still hold him in your arms, cuddling him.

His orgasm was strong, you can feel it. For Taeyong, it's months of frustration finally being satisfied.

He lays you down and settles against you. His misty eyes study you intently.

“I thought you’d never come back to me.”

“I know, me too...”

He runs a hand through your hair and props himself up on his elbow. “I hated it. It killed me, you became the greatest part of my life.” He kisses you deeply. “I missed you. I missed you so damn much.”

“I missed you too, I’m sorry.”

“Then it’s okay, you trust me now?”

You nod, silently agreeing.

“Either way, you don’t have a choice. I won’t let you go this time. And I know exactly how to convince you to give in. No manners, right?" he smirk, making fun of you. "Didn’t know that performance would have this effect on you.”

You blush slightly. “Oh shut up.”

“I’ll do this every night if that’s what you want, my love.” He kisses you again.

“You’ll take care of me, right?” you smile.

“I will, as long as you let me.”

-

In the week that follows, you and Taeyong fall back into your routine. And, of course, in private, it’s much more.

One evening in the practice room, you joke around with Haechan while Taeyong watches you, completely in awe.

"So, everything’s good between you two now?"

Taeyong smiles like a little kid. "Yeah, she just needed me to reassure her. And that’s exactly what I did. I said what needed to be said." He pauses when you look at him, his heart racing for you. He joins you, wrapping his arms around you from behind while you laugh with the others.

You push him away, but not really trying.

"Taeyong, we talk about discretion. Not in front of everyone..."

He pouts, then playfully smacks your cheek.

"I know but..between us, no manners” he whimpers in your ears.

Jungwoo leaned against your counter, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “I got some tea for you.”

“You always have tea for me.” You didn’t even look up from what you were doing.

“This one’s different. Big.”

“Oh, in that case, I’m dying to know.” The sarcasm dripped.

He bumped you with his hip. “You won’t be so cocky when you hear this.”

“Alright, spill before I actually die of suspense.”

“Jessica Rey slept with a vampire last night. Here. In our town.”

You blinked. “What? No way. No vampire would willingly step foot in this hellhole.”

“She met him at a bar in Duskford and, apparently, wasted zero time bringing him home. Never cared much for her, but honestly? Respect. That’s a power move.”

You smirked. “Would you do it?”

“Babe, please. Hell yes. Though I’d rather he be my snack than the other way around.”

“Just don’t get yourself killed over some random hookup.”

“Not just any hookup. The best hookup of my life.”

“Control yourself if you wanna keep hanging out with me.”

“Sorry, love. Once you start, you can’t stop. You’ll understand when it happens.”

You rolled your eyes, laughing. Truthfully, you had no idea what sex with someone else could even do to you—no one in this town had ever caught your attention. No one deserved it.

“So... does this mean vampires are just around now?”

“No clue. But honestly? I wouldn’t mind. That said, I’m walking you home tonight. Just in case.”

“Jungwoo, please. You’re cuter than me, you should be worried.”

“Yeah, but baby, I have a weapon on me. No debate.”

“Fine. If you insist.”

You were wiping down the counter when the bell rang. You looked up, expecting your last customer of the night. Then you saw him.

Your heart skipped. Hard.

Tall, dark hair falling in soft waves, nails painted black, fingers adorned with gorgeous rings. A gleaming earring caught the light. His lips were obscenely perfect—heart-shaped, his nose sharp and elegant, high cheekbones casting shadows like he walked straight out of a Renaissance painting. And his eyes—lined in black, deep as an entire galaxy.

You literally forgot how to breathe.

“Good evening.”

His voice was deep, smooth, with that kind of lazy confidence that made your skin prickle. And that smile, oh my—devastating.

You snapped out of it, clearing your throat. “Good evening. Can I get you—uh, serve you something?”

His lips twitched, like he was amused. His gaze lingered. Like he was studying you. “If it’s not too late, an iced Americano. To go.”

You might have sounded a little disappointed at the “to go,” but whatever. It was closing time.

“Of course. Have a seat, I’ll bring it right over.”

Jungwoo was too caught up on his phone to notice him. Probably for the best. Because the whole time you made his drink, you felt it. Even from across the room, his eyes were on you. You swore you could feel his gaze on your skin, burning, searching. You risked another glance. Yep. Still staring. And smirking, like he knew something you didn’t. For a split second, you swore his eyes flashed silver. Oh, you're so screwed.

Like he was looking at you the way someone looks at a meal.

Swallowing hard, you walked over and set his drink down. He slid a bill onto the table. “Keep the change,” he murmured, fingers brushing yours as he reached for the cup. 

It’s just a fleeting touch, nothing really— But it feels like someone just ran an electric current straight down your spine. Your heart skips a beat, and a deep, static hum rings in your ears. Something pulls at you, but you don’t know what. The room tilts, takes on a strange reddish hue, like the air itself is thickening around you. It’s suffocating. Like a storm just erupted inside your skull. Your legs give out. You reach for the back of a chair, desperate for balance— And then, an arm catches you. The moment his skin meets yours again, the sensation slams into you like a tidal wave— Hot. Intense. Overwhelming. Your breath hitches. Fear flashes in your eyes as you look at him, but no words come out. And for a split second—you’re not the only one affected. At your touch, he stumbles too, almost collapsing with you. His brows furrow, like he’s just been hit with something sharp and unpleasant. You’re practically on the floor now, and he’s bent over you, staring. Accusing. Like he’s demanding an answer for whatever the hell just happened. Like you did this to him. You don’t know what he’s expecting you to say. You don’t even know if you’ll ever be able to speak again. Then—his breath catches. His eyes flutter shut. He inhales. His face dips closer to your hair, his grip on you tightening. He breathes you in like you’re the most intoxicating thing he’s ever smelled. A low groan of pleasure rumbled from his throat. His arm tightened, pulling you closer.

You barely registered how close his face was to yours until you felt his breath on your lips.

His mouth parts. "Who are you?" His voice is low. Soft. Laced with something dangerously close to desire.

"I—I…" But nothing comes out.

He tried to move, but his body seemed frozen in place. His fingers slid into your hair, his touch feather-light yet possessive. He was looking at you like he wanted to devour you whole.

And, god, a part of you wanted him to.

A shaky breath left your lips as his fingers brushed your neck, and you instinctively gripped his arm. Your body wasn’t your own anymore—too warm, too lightheaded, too pulled toward him—do something.

His forehead pressed against yours as he whispered “I don’t know if it’s you doing this... but if you want me to help you up, you need to stop.”

His voice was like a spell, dragging you deeper under. And it wrecks you. Your head falls back, a helpless sound escaping your throat. You want it to stop. You need it to stop. And yet— A part of you wants him to stay like this forever. It’s too good. It feels like he’s unraveling you from the inside out.

The second he feels you relax, he knows.

He knows it’s time.

With effortless strength, he lifts you like you weigh nothing and sets you down onto the table behind him. Your mind is spinning. Too fast. Too much. He cups your chin, tilting your face up to his. Your eyes are hazy. Dazed. Strands of your hair have fallen across your face. And he just stares. Like he’s never seen anything like you before. Like you’re otherworldly.

"Who are you?" he murmured again.

"My name is… Y/N." You mumble, barely audible.

“Y/n,” he repeated, like he was testing how your name felt on his tongue. "But...what are you?" His fingers ghost over your cheek. "Why do you make me feel like this?"

His fingers ghosted over your cheek—

Before you could answer, Jungwoo’s voice shattered the trance.

“Oh my god, Y/n, are you okay?”

Jungwoo rushes over, placing a hand on your back. Yuta’s gaze flicks to him, assessing. Who is this guy to you ? But he senses no threat. So he answers, calm and composed. "She just had a little episode. You should get her some water."

Jungwoo hesitates, eyes flicking between you two. But he nods. "Yeah, okay—I'll be right back."

The moment he’s gone, Yuta’s hands frame your face, holding you there. Just looking. Like he’s memorizing you.

"Well." A smirk tugs at his lips. "It was an absolute pleasure meeting you, Y/N, I’m Yuta." His voice drops, softer. "I have to go. Urgent business calls. But don’t worry…" His fingers trace your wrist as he takes your hand. "I’ll be back for you."

You barely manage to shake your head. You don’t want him to go. You need him to stay. You don’t know why.

He caught your wrist, lifting it to his lips. The ghost of a kiss burned into your skin—another shockwave—and then— He was gone.

-

Later, lying on Jungwoo’s couch, you could still feel it. His touch. His eyes on you. The way the whole world had tilted. Jungwoo flopped down beside you.

“Sooo. You gonna tell me who the hell that was?”

“…I don’t know.”

“Are you gonna look for him?”

You shook your head. “I don’t think I need to.” You smile, replaying his words in your head.

Jungwoo raised an eyebrow.

“He said he’d come back for me.”

And somehow, you knew he would.

-

You specifically checked before coming to this party—Jaehyun was supposed to be visiting his parents.

“What the hell is he doing here?” you hiss at Johnny, grabbing his arm.

“Ow—” Johnny follows your line of sight. “Oh, right. His parents canceled, so he skipped the trip. My bad, maybe I forgot to mention?”

“Forgot? Seriously, Johnny?” You pinch him hard.

“Anyway,” he says, brushing it off, “aren’t you seeing Lucas right now?”

You stammer. “Uh, yeah. I mean, no. He’s heading back to Hong Kong—long-distance? Not my thing.”

The last time you and Jaehyun broke it off, it felt… final. Like, no casual makeups this time, no easy resets. It was all or nothing—building a future together or walking away for good. And guess what? Option two won. But even though you knew you’d run into him again, some kind of heads-up would’ve been nice, y’know? A little mental prep.

You hug the wall, sliding toward the kitchen. Grabbing your glass, you spin around—and there he is, catching your eye from the hallway. How long has he been watching you? His gaze, those piercing eyes—it’s like they burn straight into your chest. You quickly look away, pretending you didn’t notice, but your heart’s racing. Seeing Jaehyun again stirs something deep, something warm, something dangerously familiar.

You spend the rest of the evening holed up in the kitchen, clinging to the safety of Ten, Yangyang, and Kun’s hilarious banter. For a while, it works—the knot in your stomach loosens, and you almost forget Jaehyun’s here.

But then you see him. Leaning against the doorway, arms crossed, watching you. His lips curve into a knowing smile—because of course you’re making him laugh. You always do.

God, that smile. You missed it. For a second, you can’t help but mirror it, a tiny grin sneaking onto your face. You shrug like, What can I say? I’m naturally hilarious.

He hesitates, then starts toward you as the spot next to you opens up. Every step seems calculated, deliberate.

“You’re still the same clown, huh?”

“What can I say?” You flash a smirk. “Old habits die hard.”

You both start with small talk—classic avoidance of the giant emotional elephant in the room. You laugh at everything he says, a laugh that’s just a little too nervous. He doesn’t take his eyes off you, studying your face like it’s a map he’s trying to remember. Every curve, every line—he’s looking for signs of change since the last time he saw you.

You think to yourself: He hasn’t changed. Same calm, detached vibe, like he’s carrying the world on his shoulders but pretending it’s no big deal. But his eyes? Oh, they’re a whole other story. They give away what his words never will.

Meanwhile, he’s thinking about how different you seem. A little colder, maybe. But that spark in your eyes? It’s still there, and it could still destroy him if he’s not careful.

The silence that falls between you is loaded. Your eyes meet, and honestly? Words are unnecessary. Your history is in the room with you—your love, your heartbreak, all the messy, raw intensity of it. It floods the space, making it hard to breathe.

You remember the nights you spent talking until the sun came up, building this fragile, glowing little world for just the two of you. And the crushing disappointment when you hit that same wall over and over again—Jaehyun’s habit of running the second things got too real.

He remembers the fights where words were weapons, and the way he couldn’t stop himself from ruining everything good. He remembers you walking out for the last time, leaving him alone in an apartment that suddenly felt way too big.

He tilts his head, breaking the silence. “Wanna get out of here?”

You nod, and he leads the way, weaving through the crowded living room. He grabs your hand to guide you, and the feeling of his fingers laced with yours sends a shiver down your spine. Like your whole body remembers him in a way your mind’s trying to forget.

At the door, he picks up his jacket and drapes it over your shoulders. His Ford Mustang II King Cobra is parked outside—brown, classic, and way too familiar.

Sliding into the passenger seat, you feel a wave of déjà vu so strong it nearly knocks the breath out of you. The music hums softly in the background as the car starts, and you stare out the window at the passing lights, wondering if following him was a mistake. You can’t bring yourself to look at him. A black lock falls over his eyes, his long lashes fluttering to shake it off. His face is flawless, he’s the kind of guy that’s hard to look at without wanting to taste him.

“So… you seeing anyone?” Jaehyun’s voice cuts through the silence.

You smirk, not buying his casual tone. “Is that a question, or are you fishing for confirmation?”

He clicks his tongue, letting out a low laugh. Leaning one arm against the open window, he runs his fingers through his hair in mock exasperation. The thought of you with someone else? It’s enough to make him sick. He can’t focus on the road; he’s too busy stealing glances at you. The wind gently ruffles his hair, a few more strands falling over his eyes, you can see the muscles in his neck tense up. Jeong, why the hell are you so hot? You dream of diving into the back of his neck and devouring him with kisses. But he's not yours anymore.

“Word on the street says you’re seeing other girls too,” you fire back, throwing in a little jab.

His laugh is sharp and sarcastic. “Oh, so you’re confirming then? - A couple of lame setups from Doyoung. Nothing worth mentioning.”

His hands tighten on the steering wheel. That godamn hands that have sent you to heaven so many times. “Can’t stop thinking ‘bout you and I.” His voice drops to a murmur, the words barely audible.

You pretend not to hear him, staring out the window, trying to avoid your desire. He knows the way to your place by heart.

When you arrive, he steps out of the car at the same time as you. You raise an eyebrow.

“Smoke?”

You nod. “Sure.”

Leaning against the hood of the car, Jaehyun lights your cigarette, his eyes never leaving yours. It’s like you can hear his thoughts, feel his emotions radiating off him. He looks away, gazing into the distance.

He’s tried to forget you, to fill the emptiness with other faces. But none of them shine like you. You’re etched into him, a scar that refuses to fade.

And you? You tried to move on, but the silence he left behind was louder than his presence ever was.

“I thought you quit,” you say, your tone teasing.

He chuckles, the cigarette dangling from his lips. “I did.”

You snort, gesturing to the smoke curling in the air. “Sure looks like it.” 

“Guess old habits die hard.”

You smirk. “Tragic loss for the Olympics. Michael Phelps can rest easy.”

“Hmm, truly devastating for the world of sports.”

He exhales, the smoke curling lazily in the air. “This was our thing, y’know? Sneaking off to smoke at every party, everytime we were together. It’s a bad habit, but it’s ours. Guess I’m scared to change that.”

You glance at him, your voice quieter. “Some things just stick with you, no matter how much you try to shake them.”

He leans in, his face close enough that you can feel his breath. “I like the things we share. Even the bad ones.”

Your heart skips a beat, and for a second, you forget. Forget that he’s not yours anymore. That you can’t just close the distance and kiss him like you used to.

You snap out of it, standing abruptly. “Thanks for the cigarette, Jeong. See you around.”

Shrugging off his jacket, you hold it out to him. He doesn’t take it right away, his gaze lingering on your hand before he finally brushes his fingers against yours, just enough to send sparks up your arm.

He smirks as he takes the jacket, and you return it with a soft smile before walking away.

Back in your apartment, your skin still tingles where he touched you. Jaehyun.

When you wake up the next morning, there’s a message waiting for you on your phone. Simple, almost cold: “Can we talk?”

You hesitate, your fingers trembling slightly over the screen. You know that replying means reopening a door you worked so hard to close. But you also know you can’t say no to him—you never could.

The two of you meet at your usual coffee shop. It’s been a while since you’ve been here. Everything looks the same, yet everything feels different.

Jaehyun is sitting there, dressed in a plain white t-shirt and blue Levi’s, paired with boots. The look is effortless, but on him, it’s like no one else could wear it better. The black of his hair contrasts so perfectly that he looks like he stepped out of an old James Dean movie. And all you can think about is how badly you want to slide your hands under that shirt.

He sees you and smiles, his eyes lighting up like he’s been waiting for this moment all night.

You know you look good—you’re wearing the black mini skirt you two bought together ages ago, and your signature crimson lipstick that drives him crazy. As you walk closer, his gaze rakes over you, devouring every detail. The flicker of excitement in your chest feels like a tiny victory.

You sit down, and the conversation starts politely, almost mechanically. Like you’re dancing an old, familiar routine. But the air between you is thick with everything unsaid—last night, the months before that—it’s too much. Too heavy for small talk.

Jaehyun finally breaks the silence, his voice quiet and unsteady, like it’s coming from somewhere deep and vulnerable.

“I always thought I’d eventually get over thinking about you. But here you are, and I’m still the same idiot who wants you more than anything. When you left, I really thought my world stopped turning. I built my life around you. It’s like you took a piece of me when you walked away, and I’ve been chasing it ever since, trying to find it in all the wrong places.”

You didn’t expect him to say this. To be this open about the pain he felt when you left—the pain he never knew how to put into words before.

You listen in silence, but the way your hands tighten around your coffee cup betrays your nerves.

Barely above a whisper, you respond, “And I thought you’d be the one I could remember without pain. But I can’t even breathe normally when you’re around. I can’t sit across from you for ten minutes without falling apart.”

The truth between you is undeniable now: you’ve always loved each other, but your love has always been poisoned by your fears and insecurities.

“I was scared,” Jaehyun admits. “Scared you’d leave for someone better. I’ve never felt like I was enough for you, like I could give you what you needed. You always seemed so sure of yourself, so put-together. And me? I was just… me. So I let you go. Cowardly, I know, but it felt easier than telling you how I felt. You told me that you love me but you never want to see me again..”

“I know,” you say softly. “And I know I’m not innocent in all this. I made you feel that way. I never trusted you, not fully. I was so sure you’d leave eventually, that you’d get scared of commitment. But in the end, I was the one who walked away. Because I felt so empty, Jae. Being with you, it started to hurt.”

Jaehyun’s voice drops lower, but there’s a determination in it now. “So what? We just let our insecurities keep running the show? Let them ruin us for good? Or do we forget all that and rebuild? I don’t want to pretend anyone else could ever be you. No one’s you.”

You look away, staring at the traffic outside the window.

It hits you—this is the exact spot where you broke up for the first time. Back in high school, when you were still kids fumbling through love and heartbreak. It feels like some kind of cruel deja vu, like the universe loves throwing you into the same cycle over and over.

And yet, a few months ago, you promised yourself something. That you’d protect yourself first, no matter what. Even if it meant walking away from love.

“Look, I know, trust me I understand, I deserve less, If I was you I wouldn't take me back. But Y/n…I don't wanna see you- I can’t see you with anyone but me. How am I supposed to accept it, I love me so much more when you’re around and I know that you do too. Us, together, is something else.”

“It just goes round and round every time. I’m done with this.” You stand to leave, the chair scraping against the floor with finality.

Before you can take another step, his hand catches your wrist.

“If you walk away again, I won’t stop you this time,” he murmurs, his voice low and trembling. “But if you stay... I promise, this time, I won’t let anything come between us. I’ll be the man you need. Someone you can trust, someone who’s by your side. Always.”

His words sound raw, almost desperate, and for a moment, you freeze.

You want to leave, but his eyes—those eyes—you’re powerless against them. The way he looks at you wraps you up, as if you’re already in his arms, as if he’s touching every part of you without even making contact.

And he’s different now. You can feel it in the way he speaks, in the way his vulnerability lays bare between you. Jaehyun looks like he’s finally grown, like he’s learned to open up in ways he couldn’t before. He’s not just asking for another chance—he’s begging to be the person you’ve always needed him to be.

So, just this once? Why not give him that chance? After everything you’ve shared, doesn’t he at least deserve that?

“Take me home,” you whisper.

His smile is immediate, radiant, and you can see the relief in his shining eyes. It feels so bittersweet—how deeply you love him, even after everything. Even after running, even after months apart, even after you tried to leave him behind. Your heart has never learned to be quiet about him, and it frustrates you to no end. He has this undeniable power over you, and you hate it almost as much as you love it.

As you step out of the coffee shop, Jaehyun pulls you to the wall outside, one arm wrapping tightly around your waist. He holds you there for a moment, looking into your eyes like he’s trying to say something his words can’t reach: This is it. This is the last time. This time, it’s forever.

And then he kisses you.

It’s deep, consuming, his velvet lips brushing against yours with an urgency that makes your knees weak. His mouth moves over yours like he’s trying to make up for all the lost time, for every second he’s gone without you. When his tongue meets yours, you let out a soft moan, your body melting into his as his hand presses against the small of your back.

No one else could ever be him. No one else could kiss you like this.

Because with Jaehyun, it’s not just a kiss—it’s everything. 

The air between you grows heavier, filled with passion and the raw intensity of everything you’ve been holding back.

“Let’s go home babe. Or I'll behave badly in public.” 

“You miss me this much ?”

“You really ask the question.” He narrows his eyes, studying you. Oh, he knows that look. You’re playing with him, and he’s more than ready to join the game.

“Why the mini skirt, then?” he asks, his voice low, teasing, as his lips curve into a smirk. “Just to torture me, huh?” He slides his hands down your hips and takes a firm grip on your butt. 

You let out a small gasp of surprise, your eyes widening for just a moment. Jaehyun’s smile grows—it’s that sound, the one he’s always loved. It tells him everything he needs to know. You haven’t gotten over him. He still has the same effect on you.

“Maybe..”

“Tell me, did you have sex with him?” You pretend not to know who he’s talking about, tilting your head slightly as you widen your eyes in mock innocence.

“Who, exactly?” you ask, your voice light and teasing, the perfect picture of feigned cluelessness.

“This Honk-Kong guy, don’t mess up with me right now.” he presses his hips against yours, you feel the bone in his jeans. 

“He never took what was yours, if that's what you're asking for”

He exhales in relief, his shoulders relaxing as his eyes light up with renewed energy. “And what’s mine?” he asks, his voice soft but laced with a quiet intensity. He needs to hear you say it, to let the words come from your lips.

You bite your lower lip, feeling your heart tighten. This guy loves you so much, you can feel it in every fiber of your being. It’s overwhelming, undeniable.

“Me.”

“So let's see, show me how much you belong to me.” He grabs your hand and pulls you along, urgency in his steps as he leads you to the car. Before you know it, you’re climbing into the backseat with him, your heart pounding in sync with his.

In one swift motion, he pulls you onto his lap, straddling him. His hands grip your waist as his lips crash against yours, this time with a wild, unrestrained intensity. The kiss is deeper, hungrier, as if he’s been holding back for far too long and can’t anymore.

“I can’t wait.” he undoes his belt and unzips his jeans.

“Someone could catch us.” You say this as you lift your skirt and take off your jacket. You burn too much for him, you can't reason with yourself.

He lifts you slightly to free his cock from his jeans. Moving your thong to the side, he aligns himself with your entrance and penetrates you in one smooth movement. You cry out as you feel the tip of it touch the bottom of your pussy. You grab his shoulders, Jaehyun is going to take the lead this time, that's for sure. His fingers dig into the flesh of your thighs. His movements are quick and dry at first, he moans at length, it's such a relief for him. “Finally home.”

Your fingers weave into his hair, wrapping a strand around them as you tighten your grip, pulling him even closer. In his arms, you feel weightless, like a doll being held with a mix of tenderness and raw intensity.

His warm breath brushes against your neck, sending shivers down your spine. And in that moment, as his touch grounds you and his presence surrounds you, it hits you—this is what home feels like. He’s your home.

You pull back slightly, just enough to look into his eyes. They’re dark, filled with lust and raw pleasure, a haze of emotion that makes your breath hitch. He looks almost dazed, like someone taking a long-awaited hit after years of restraint.

Unable to resist, you lean in and kiss him passionately, pouring everything into it. The intensity of your connection shifts something in him. His movements slow, becoming more deliberate, more intimate. It’s not just hunger anymore—it’s something deeper, something that lingers in the space between desire and devotion. You were fucking and suddenly you're making love. He intertwine his fingers with yours and caress your hips with his other hand. He can't take his eyes off you. 

“You have no idea how much I missed you,” he murmurs, his voice steady and deep, carrying the weight of all the time you’ve spent apart.

“I’m here now,” you whisper, wrapping your arms around his neck, pulling him close until your forehead rests against his.

“Don’t ever leave again,” he mumbles, his voice breaking slightly. “No matter what we go through. Never again.”

You cup his face gently, your voice soft but resolute. “I’m not going anywhere without you, Jaehyun.”

His movements are regular, and you feel his cock rubbing your walls in the same rhythm. He lightly pinches your ass and you moan. He knows you love it. He gently caress your other hole to stimulate you. You can feel your orgasm rising. He doesn't let go of your neck, which he's working hard on. You'll probably have a bruise by tonight, or several. 

You pull on his hair to signal that your climax is coming. He lifts his head to see you moaning.

“Say my name.” he murmurs.

“Jaehyun, Jaehyun, oh my god Jae yes, yes…” you shout his name until the end of your climax. He closes his eyes and enjoys the moment, his name sounding so good in your mouth.

“Yeah baby, ‘m right here.” He picks up the pace again, his movements becoming urgent and demanding, as if he’s making up for all the lost time.

“Tell me I’m the man of your life, say it,” he commands, his eyes dark and intense. He needs to know where he stands in your heart, in your life, what place he occupies in your eyes.

“You’re the man of my life, there’s only you,” you whisper, gently running your fingers through his hair, wanting him to feel every ounce of love you have for him. You know Jaehyun needs reassurance, to feel cherished and cared for. You’ll say everything he wants to hear.

“We’ll never be apart again,” he murmurs, his eyes now filled with sadness and a quiet desperation.

“No, never again—ah, Jae…” you moan softly, your breath hitching as his touch overwhelms you.

You feel his dick tense up inside you, you know he's close to orgasm. 

“I'm yours, I love you so much.” Jaehyun likes to feel loved and reassured it helps him reach his climax. “You're the man in my life Jae. No one can be you, no one can love me like you and no one can fuck me like you.”

He moans loudly, finally relaxing into you, he's always done it, so why change your habits. He remains in ecstasy for a moment. His forehead is moist. His breathing calms and so does yours, your head resting against his chest. 

"I meant it, you know," you murmur against him, your hand still intertwined with his.

"I know... and so do I. You're the woman of my life. I want everything with you. I want us to get married, I want kids, I want a dog, and the beautiful country house that comes with it."

You look at him, Jaehyun is so much more mature and confident now.

"Why don't we pick up where we left off a few months ago, let's move in together."

"Leave your place tonight, and come stay at mine."

"Are you serious?"

"Completely. I don’t want to wake up a single morning without you. Last night I was going crazy coming home without you. You can bring your stuff gradually, but I’m warning you, you’re not sleeping there unless I’m with you."

You smile and kiss him. "Okay, Mr. Possessive."

"You’re mine, remember? You’re the one who said it."

Your reply is instant, desperate in the way you don’t even try to hide. The thought of seeing him makes something in your chest untangle, makes your ribs feel a little less tight. You sit up, glancing around your room, half-heartedly straightening things up. You should shower before he gets here, at least try to make yourself presentable—

The doorbell rings. Not even ten minutes later.

“Shit.”

You roll your eyes at yourself, but honestly? You’re not mad. You’re already moving, already reaching for the door, already smiling before you even open it.

And there he is.

Messy brown hair. Ridiculously pretty eyes. That smile—the one that always makes your stomach feel like it’s folding in on itself. He steps inside without a word, without hesitation, arms slipping around your waist, body fitting against yours like it was made to. A kiss on your forehead, soft, lingering.

“Hey, pretty girl.”

You exhale against his chest, sinking into him.

“Hi,” you mumble against his chest, breathing him in. Suddenly, today doesn’t feel so bad anymore.

“You got here so fast.” You pull back just enough to look at him. “Were you nearby?”

“Mhm. And I was kind of excited to see you, so I didn’t waste time.” His fingers slide through yours, effortlessly, like second nature. Leading you toward your room, toward the quiet comfort of your space. “Should I have given you more time?”

“No, it’s just—” You hesitate. “I thought I’d have time to shower before you got here. I feel gross. I wanted to look cute for you.”

His head tilts. Something amused, something fond in the way he looks at you.

“That’s an easy fix.”

Before you can ask what he means, he’s steering you toward the bathroom.

You blink. “Wait—”

“If you need a shower, let’s shower.” His voice is soft, but firm, like he’s stating the most obvious thing in the world. “I love being clean. And I love seeing you naked. This is a win for me.”

“You’re impossible—”

You don’t finish, because his lips are on yours, and your brain goes quiet.

It’s slow, unhurried, his hands moving with the kind of gentleness that makes your heart ache. He pulls your shirt over your head, unbuttons your jeans, sliding them off inch by inch. Every movement deliberate. Worshipful. And then his own clothes hit the floor, and the warmth of his skin against yours makes your breath hitch.

The water turns on.

He watches you with something close to amusement as you shiver at the warmth seeping in, presses a dozen tiny kisses across your face, like he’s mapping you out.

“So,” he murmurs, “how was your day?”

You huff, tilting your head up to look at him. “Not great. Until now.”

“On a scale of 1 to 10?”

You pretend to think about it. “Before you texted me? A 3. After your text? A 7. Once you got here? 8. In the shower? 9.”

He hums, pleased. “Excellent. That means I’m doing my job right.” Then, lower, softer—“Turn around.”

You do, closing your eyes, waiting.

For a second, his hands disappear. Your brows knit together. But then—

The scent of your body wash.

The warmth of his palms returning, slow and deliberate, moving over your skin in soft circles.

And just like that, the weight of the day dissolves.

“Mark…”

“Shhh,” he murmurs, pressing his lips to your shoulder. “Let me take care of you. It’ll feel nice.”

And it does. God, it does. You let yourself sink into it. Let yourself exist here, in this moment, where everything is warm and quiet and safe. He rinses you just as carefully, and by the time the water shuts off, you feel boneless.

Then—softness. Warmth. He’s wrapping you in a towel, his hands impossibly gentle. You grip his shoulders, barely thinking, just following. He leads you back to your room, and you let him.

You sit on the bed, half in a daze, watching as he kneels in front of you, rummages through your drawer like it’s his own. He pulls out a pair of underwear, slides it up your legs, his touch featherlight.

“I can do that myself, you know.”

“I know.” He presses a kiss to your knee. “But you need someone to take care of you tonight. Let me.”

He smooths the fabric into place, then smirks. “Though, I usually prefer taking these off of you.” A wink.

You laugh, breathless, fingers sliding into his hair.

“And now?” His voice is quieter, lower. Eyes locked onto yours.

“10/10.”

The smile he gives you is something secret, something warm, something that makes your chest ache.

He smiles, pulling you down into bed with him, tucking you against his chest. His arms wrap around you, warm and steady, and you think—this. This is the safest place in the world. You could stay like this forever, feeling his breath against your neck, letting the rest of the world fade away.

And in this moment, you know. You’ll cherish this. This little pocket of happiness, this unexpected ending to an otherwise forgettable day.

“And now?” he whispers against your ear.

You smile, eyes fluttering shut.

“20/10.”

He kisses your temple.

And just like that, you fall asleep. Wrapped in warmth, in safety, in love.

Mark will always be your safe place. And nights like this always remind you why.

“Goodnight, babe.”

Your last thought before sleep takes you is simple.

You are loved. You are cherished. You are home.