You disliked a lot of things, but there are only three things you hate.

1. Losing

2. Kim Sunwoo

3. Losing to Kim Sunwoo

But to be honest if you could make all three Sunwoo you would.

You stared at the email cursing your screen. There’s no fucking way in hell, you were going to allow this.

“Congratulations! You, Y/n L/N have been selected as Student Government Association Vice President.”

“Absolutely not.”

People around you could probably feel the anger seeping throughout your body, evident by their polite nods and smiles as they passed you in the campus cafe. So why couldn’t he take the freaking hint?

“Talking to yourself again?”

You look up only to spot him.

Kim Sunwoo

The reason you’re prematurely graying.

Your glasses slipped slightly down your nose as he bent down to your eye level, casually pushing them back up with one finger.

He tilts his head slightly.

“Are these things prescription” he asked “or are they just to complete the whole college princess look?”

You let out a sigh that still couldn’t fully encapsulate your disgust with him. “Fuck off.”

Sunwoo gasps sarcastically, “Why that’s no way to speak to your president.”

“You’re not my president.” You say through gritted teeth.

“Thats not what this says.” He holds up a sheet of paper, with his acceptance email inked on it.

“You printed that out?”

He chuckles, “Yeah. I think I might frame it.”

“You’re a pathetic loser.” you say beginning to pack up your computer and books.

“Loser? That’s funny coming from a runner up.”

You stared at him.

For a second, you seriously considered throwing away your scholarship, your future, and every ounce of self-control you had

Just to wipe that stupid smile off his face.

𓆝𓆟𓆞𓆝𓆟

“Wow” is all that Felix was able to think when he saw you. You’re hair styled in a low pony to the back, accessorized with a pink headband. Your plump glossy lips were pushed in a small pout, as your sparkling eyes scanned the array of pastries and desserts. Your arms positioned behind your back, you gracefully bent as you slowly walked alongside the display. You were dressed in a baby pink athletic jacket and leggings set. The pink complemented your skin beautifully, the afternoon sun shining through the bakery window made it appear as if you were glowing and to Felix you were.

“What’s your favorite?” You asked looking up at him through your lashes. A look that made Felix’s heart skip a beat. He smiled “Uh I don’t really have a favorite, to be honest I like everything here.”

You stood up straight and quirked an eyebrow. “Is that so?” His smile grew as he softly chuckled, mumbling a small “yeah”. “I’ll take one chocolate croissant, a brownie, and one blueberry muffin.” you said bringing your manicured hand near the glass to tap on it, towards each item mentioned with your pink pointer nail. Felix noticed your apparent habit of accessorizing due to the gold jewelry that adorned your neck, ears, and hands, in the form of necklaces, bangles, rings, charm bracelets, and several earrings. He found it endearing how despite having engaged is some sort of athletic activity you still wore jewelry.

“Did you get that?” Your titled your head slightly to the side. “Yeah, one chocolate croissant, a brownie and a blueberry muffin. Can I get you anything else?” He said his Australian accent getting caught on a few words, as he tried and failed to maintain eye contact, eventually looking down at his ordering screen. “I’ll take a large strawberry green tea lemonade as well, add matcha. That’s all.”

“Alrighty your total is 16.43. What’s the name on your order?” “Y/n.” You responded taking out your card from your pink wallet, from your pink purse. “Y/n that’s a pretty name.” Felix spoke smiling and handing you a receipt, a soft gasp escaped him though as you leaned slightly over the counter. Your eyes focused on his chest or more so his name tag. “Yeah? So is um…Felix. Yea very pretty name.” Felix let out a breathless chuckle. An embarrassing heat rising up his neck. “Thank you.”

The bakery was empty as it usually was at this time, pre after school/work rush. Felix couldn’t help but occasionally glance at you standing at the counter, a little further down this time. You had this familiar feeling about you, he just couldn’t pull his attention away. “I should say something.” He thought as he made your drink. You softly chewed on your bottom lip, tapping away on your phone that was adorned in a pink phone case, a hello kitty wrist loop dangling from the corner. You were obviously displeased by whatever you were doing, this was apparent from your all but subtle eye roll and the newly found aggression in your taps.

“I’m going to say something. I’m going to compliment her. Yeah that’s what I’ll do.” He thought whisking the matcha feverishly. “I guess your favorite color is pink huh?” It took everything in him not to sink to his knees in embarrassment. *i guEsS yoUr FavOrItE cOLor iS pINk* Felix mocked himself in his head. Of course your favorite color is pink LOOK AT YOU. Everything you own is pink.

“Why would you think a thing like that?” Looking up from your phone, a small smirk plays at your lips. “Is it because I’m a girl?” Felix eyes widened with panic. (and a little disbelief?) “No of…of course not! I was just looking at you and…your things…everything is pink..I..I just..kinda assumed!” An absolute mess is what he what he said. A mess of words all spouted out in attempt to explain away this very odd misunderstanding.

“Huh. Everything is pink. I haven’t noticed. Anywho it’s purple.”

“Oh.” An awkward chuckle escapes his lips as he snaps a top on your drink.

“Here you are.” He says, handing you your pastries in a brown paper bag with the bakery logo printed on the front, a clear matching cup following it. His freckled cheeks raised in a kind smile. Felix swears every awkward feeling he was experiencing was quickly washed away the moment he heard you laugh, as you took the things from his hands. A laugh or a giggle? He has no idea all he knows is that it was music to his ears, and awfully contagious. His own deep warm laugh fluttered out. “What are you laughing about?” He said trying to hold back another laugh.

“I was just thinking, you smile a lot and you’re very friendly.” you say an amused tone poking at your voice. Felix eyes light up, his smile growing. “Thank y….”

“How incredibly exhausting your companionship must be.” Felix smile drops, his eyebrows furrow. “What?”

“See you later, Sunshine.” The bell on the bakery door rings, signifying your exit. Felix is stunned. Fifteen seconds later and he’s still standing there, mouth slightly agape, eyes wide with confusion.

“The fuck…”

𓆝𓆟𓆞𓆝𓆟

“…….does that mean?”

“I don’t know I said the same thing.” Felix was currently sat at his kitchen island with his best friend/ roommate Chris. That interaction was on his mind the rest of his shift. He was so confused, his companionship was exhausting? What does that even mean. He’d come home and told Chan everything in hopes the he could make sense of it.

“She just laughed and then said that. No explanation.” Felix explains, propping his elbows on the island, pushing his hands up his face and through his hair, finally resting them tangled in his hair. His eyes bore holes in the marble surface, this was eating him alive. Did she think his smile was ingenious? Why would she think that?

“Well, did you say something to offend her?”

“No. When have I’ve ever offended someone?”

“Never, but I don’t know. I’m at a loss here mate.” Chris shook his head sighing. “Do you think it was the pink thing?” Chris asked. “I don’t think so, I thought she was just joking.” Felix throws his head back groaning. “She was beautiful bro.” Chris chuckles, taking a sip of water and swallowing. “What?” Felix asks snapping his head upright, a questioning look written on his face. “Nothing just…hmm..is it bothering you that someone may not like you? Or is the fact that someone that you were kinda fawning over may not like you?”

Felix pauses, he was faced with a decision. A subconscious decision yes but a decision nonetheless. He could either be honest with Chris and himself or… not do that. He chose the latter. “I don’t know what you’re talking about but I just really don’t like leaving bad impressions on anyone. I don’t want her to think I’m disingenuous or anything. What if she doesn’t come back to the bakery because of me?”

“Felix relax. An annoying cashier isn’t going to stop her from coming again.” Chan reasons.

“Annoying? Who said anyth…..” “Next time she comes, just treat her like any other customer. Yeah?” Chan says patting Felix on his shoulder. Felix sighs “You’re right. I’ll treat her like any other customer.” Felix responds smiling waving his hands around in a (I’m dismissing this issue) manner. Chan smiles and chuckles his dimples peeking out. “Yeah, you got it mate!”

“Besides it’s not like she goes to our college or anything.”

𓆝𓆟𓆞𓆝𓆟

The funny thing about college classes is that apparently you could attend that class three days a week for over half a semester and have absolutely no idea who some of your classmates are until the worst time possible. How do I know that? Well I don’t but Felix definitely does because the moment he enters his nutritional science class he nearly bumps into a table. Front row, right side, seventh seat, his eyes are attacked with pink. Pink notebook, pink textbook covers, pink binders, pink sticky notes, pink water bottle, pink pen case. All neatly arranged in front of you, in all of your painfully beautiful and pink glory.

How could he have missed you? Not only were you the most gorgeous woman he’s ever seen, but you’re literally a walking fucking color swatch. He knows this class doesn’t have set seating but boy oh boy was he shocked at himself. Is this class really that interesting? No it’s too hard, so hard that he apparently has to lock in on every single thing the professor is saying, that’s the only possible way he could’ve missed you, Felix thinks.

He admits he was staring. He truly didn’t know it though until you looked at him, your eyes locking into his. Then you waved and smiled, and so did he. He let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding. Relived he thought “maybe at the bakery that was just a poorly made joke”. He took a step forward and you shook your head no. Felix’s heart dropped to his ass. You waved your hand to the side as if to dismiss him, before pointing at someone behind him and waving them over. A tall girl, with dyed pink hair (a reoccurring color with you) styled in a curly kinky puff. She was dressed in athletic wear as well, a brown fitted jacket with matching sweats. Felix wondered if you guys were in some club. He’d come to learn that this woman’s name was Armani, due to having to sit directly behind you. Turns out that whole debacle allowed for all of the best seats (seats away from you) to be taken.

Boy are you two quite the chatty pair, evidently this class wasn’t as difficult to you guys as it was for him. Don’t get him wrong you guys weren’t loud, or at least not loud enough for the professor to hear or to bother anyone else, but somehow loud enough to break his focus. Did you guys somehow find a way to speak at exactly the right pitch so as to only bother him, or was Felix just not able to pay attention to anything but you? Truly a great question but alas a question he was not willing to ask himself. Either way his lack of focus caused his mind to drift to earlier more than he would’ve liked. This sixty minute classed turned into Felix going through the following cycle-

1. Gain a bit of focus

2. Take notes

3. Hears murmurs or giggles from You and Armani

4. Focus breaks

5. Mind spirals from embarrassment because why would he ever think you were waving at him

6. Wishes that’d he’d never even showed up for class today.

Rinse and repeat. During the last say eight minutes of the class Felix was at stage five. Unfortunately for him these last minutes were used by the professor to announce group presentations. A group of three students were to present a study on misleading nutrition labels in modern day leading diet brands. Y/n and Armani were obviously going to partner with each other but oh no that’s just two people. Where on earth would they find a third?

Oh come on you’ve read a fanfic before you know where this is going.

“Alright I see the lot of you have already grouped up, please raise your hand if you need help grouping.” Professor Henson says his eyes wondering around the room before landing on a hand that was raised and for whatever reason waving vigorously. “No need to wave Ms. L/N I see your hand.” He says chuckling softly. “Oh sorry, I just enjoy the way my bracelets sound.” A small smile formed on your lips watching his puzzled reaction.

“Oh”

“Anywho, we just need one more person for our group sir.” Mr. Henson’s eyes scan the room looking at the already formed groups who are sat together chatting. His gaze falls upon Felix, whose head is resting in his hand, which is unusual he’s usually pretty attentive, the professor thinks, I wonder if he’s ok. “Mr.Lee?” No response. “Mr.Lee?” Still no response. “Mr. Felix Lee?!” Felix’s head shoots up “So sorry Mr. Henson, I apologize I zoned out.” Your’s and Armani’s heads were both turned to look at him. Great he’s embarrassed himself for a second time in front of you today. “I see. Have you found a group for the upcoming presentation?”

“Presentation? Um, no I haven’t.”

“Great you can work with Ms. L/N and Ms. Vivian.” Mr. Henson responds gesturing to you and Armani. Felix isn’t being dramatic or maybe he is but he swears his ears start to ring. Felix has never been nervous about working in new groups. But when it came to you, he wasn’t just nervous but he was downright scared. Not only because he’s positive you two have gotten off on the wrong foot but also because of the very apparent look of disappointment on your face. He smiled trying to lighten things “Uh I guess we should exchange numbers then?” He says smiling nervously scratching the back of his neck. You look at him and smile a smile, which considering your next sentence could only be described as condescending and mocking. “Get it from the teacher.” You say before grabbing your things and leaving.

Oh so at the bakery….

You really weren’t joking.

Armani clears her throat while awkwardly tapping her legs. She lets out an (I’m trying not to make this anymore weird than it already is) laugh before extending her hand to Felix. “My name’s Armani *awkward exhale* I’ll give you our numbers.”

Lee Felix has never been hated by anyone.

Lee Felix has never hated anyone.

But he’s gotta admit he’s not incredibly fond of you.

𓆝𓆟𓆞𓆝𓆟

“I don’t like her.”

“Wow I’ve never heard you say that ever. Like about anything.” Chris said popping a fry into his mouth. The two were currently sat in the campus cafeteria dining on an exquisite meal of burgers and fries, costing an entire whopping one swipe of their dining pass. “Yeah that’s because I’ve never felt like this before, I just don’t get it. She’s so mean to me and I haven’t don’t anything but take her order.” Felix said cracking open a bottle of fruit punch. “Oh you forgot smiling and being nice.”

“Oh yeah that too.” Felix tsked. “You said her friend was nice right?” Felix nodded his head. “So best case scenario you spend a few days working on a project with at least one likable person, and since her friend is there too. It’s only slightly awkward and you get a good grade. Worst case scenario it’s extremely awkward and her friend being there does nothing to stop her from hurting your feelings again but you still get a good grade. Either way it’s a win win.”

“That only works if you assume we’ll get a good grade. Which wouldn’t be easy, while working in a tense study environment.” Felix says before taking a bite of his burger. “Yeah I didn’t quite think about that one mate. Um…how about you just try your best yeah?” Felix glares at him “I need friends who are better at giving advice.”

“Well too bad. I’m the best you’ve got. And I say just ride it out. I mean I understand this whole not being liked and not liking someone thing is new to you but for most people it’s something you have to deal with quite often. In fact I absolutely despise my music theory seat mate and I’m pretty sure the feelings are mutual, but I deal with it because when a grade is on the line you learn how to get along. So trust me everything will be fine, promise.”

“And if you’re wrong?”

“Then I’ll buy you a nice juicy steak.”

𓆝𓆟𓆞𓆝𓆟

Friday night.

Nine fifty one pm, Felix was sat hunched over at his desk. Nearly an hour into studying and his back and neck were already aching. “Ughh” Felix raised his arms over his head, stretching his back and shoulders. As he twisted his neck to the side in order to crack it, he received a message. Grabbing his phone he hopped into his bed upon seeing the contact, he totally wasn’t using this as an excuse to stop studying.

-Hey Felix, this is Armani. I was wondering when you’d be free to begin planning our presentation?

When will he be free?

-Hi! 👋 I’ll be free Tuesday afternoon. Is that good for you?😊

“What is wrong with me?” Felix whispered to himself. What’s with all of emoji’s? Overcompensating at its finest. What have you told her about him, honestly he was trying to appear as genuine as possible but the emojis may have been overkill.

-Yup, lol that’s perfect. Meet at study hall at around 1:30?

lol? What does she mean by that? What’s funny? Is she laughing at him or did he accidentally make a joke?

-Great.😊👍 See you guys then!🤗

It’s like his hands have a mind of their own. He physically couldn’t resist it. Those stupid yellow little faces had him in a chokehold apparently. Felix sat up at the edge of his bed, staring at his phone. He’s so thrown off. This isn’t like him. He’s never had to try to be liked or nice. It’s always come naturally, but now here he is. Sending a thousand and one emojis to someone who has shown no form of dislike towards him. Yet he can’t but fear leaving a bad impression.

One moment.

One girl.

One statement.

Left a lasting effect on him.

“Am I dramatic? Yeah that’s what is.”

𓆝𓆟𓆞𓆝𓆟

“You’re definitely being dramatic.”

Chris said looking at the messages. The two were sat on the couch in their apartments living area. An hour after the messages the pair had decided to order take out. “Don’t get me wrong, there are for sure too many emojis here but at least you didn’t accidentally send a winking one.” Chris comforted, definitely not speaking from experience. “It’s not about the emojis mate, the issue is me and overthinking.”

Chris leans back sighing. “So you were scared to say the wrong thing to Armani, so you panicked and overniced. And this is all because one person apparently doesn’t like you.”

“Mmm hmm” Felix hummed in embarrassed agreement. “I gotta tell you mate, this is starting to sound like an episode of spongebob.” Felix turns to Chris and lightly chuckles.

“Unfortunately you’re right, either that or a poorly written fanfic.”

“Whichever one you’ll have a good ending.”

“If I should be so lucky.”

𓆝𓆟𓆞𓆝𓆟

“You look like the type of guy to text using an excessive amount of emojis.”

The fuck does that mean?

“Excuse me?”

You’re propped up on your elbow that’s resting on the table. The fluorescent lighting of the study hall, the lighting that makes even the best looking people, appear as sickly Victorian children. Somehow, to Felix’s annoyance, you looked as if you were an angel cascading from heaven. Your hair styled up, adorned with an oceanic blue hibiscus flower hair clip. Your lips perfectly glossed, your eyelashes lovingly complimented your shimmering eyes. Your skin dewy and glowing. Body glitter or do you just naturally sparkle. Your legs under the table crossed, a flowing blue sun dress poured across them. You rolled the ankle of your leg that was crossed, a beach themed anklet wrapped around it, your strapless brown wedged sandals hung loosely from your feet, held on by skill.

Was he underdressed? A simple hoodie and jeans is what his outfit today consisted of. Meanwhile you were dressed as if you were an actor in a perfume commercial that has absolutely no relation to the product at hand. No, what is he thinking? He’s dressed to study, but you. You’re dressed to distract, or is this just you. Naturally distracting.

Torture is what this is, waiting on Armani. Ten minutes away she said. Longest ten minutes of his life. You’re not making it any better, a simple look and hello. That’s all you gave him. You left him in pure silence. Sure he could get on his phone but that didn’t work well. He was overwhelmingly compelled to study you and every detail about you, and he gave in. Short sneaky glances every few moments. It wasn’t intentional, he couldn’t help it. His thoughts were interrupted suddenly, by your comment.

“Excuse me?” Felix nervously chuckled.

“Does this sound genuine? How do I come off? I hope she knows I’m nice.” “That’s what you were thinking huh? When you sent those messages. How obnoxious.” You looked at him, your eyebrows raised in an expression of judgment that hurt his insides. Your plump lips placed in a mocking smirk.

“I..I don’t know what you…” Felix trailed off his soft features twisted with confusion.

“I know people like you. Interesting truly. Your type, the sunshine type. A rarity in today’s world, that’s why everyone loves you. Heart warming kindness and infectious joy. How many times has someone said this about you? A lot I assume. That’s why being liked means so much to you. It’s sickening.”

What in the Joker monologue was that? Did she rehearse that? So many thoughts ran through Felix’s mind. His type? Sickening? For the first time since his childhood, Felix frowned. Really frowned, not a joke with his friends, not a I just ate something disgusting frown, but a real frown. Who are you to say that to him. He’s come to understand that maybe you took his kindness as fake, and that’s why you don’t like him, that’s fine. But this, this is just cruel. Who says that to a stranger?

“You don’t know me.” Simple but that’s all he could think to say, his accent thick, voice deep as usual but laced with a thread of hurt. Your hand dropped from your chin your bracelets jingle, as you leaned back in your chair its metal frame creaking quietly. You looked at him, your eyes shimmering with… what is that? Is that satisfaction? Your lips framed in a smile.

“Oh really?”

“Careful.”

“I may not think you’re nice.”

“Hey guys, sorry I’m late.” Both of you look up to the familiar voice. Armani. Felix’s savior. She took her seat setting down her bag. “Wow it’s hot, this jacket was a BAD idea.” She said with a giggle, tugging off the sleeves of her jacket. “Woah you guys are like dead silent.” Looking between the two of you, she reaches into her bag, and pulls out a decently sized white container with a green label. “Well lighten up bitches, I have good news. So Mr.Henson assigned each group a product. Well I stopped by the store, and picked up said product and oh my gosh this is going to be the easiest project EVER! ‘Blossom Energy’ the scammiest scam to ever scam.” Armani spouted out quickly, slamming the container down on the table. Earning glares from sleep deprived studying students. She mouthed a sorry. Felix chuckled softly. “I don’t think scammiest is a word.” He said smiling. “Well it’s going to be one today.” Armani responded jokingly, her contagious laugh follows.

Armani was his savior. In fact he thinks he’s made a new friend. He’s never laughed so much during a group project before. You barely spoke a word, simple smiles and nods were all you contributed. To be honest Armani spoke enough for the both of you. Fortunately for Felix. Armani took the role as the group lead and assigned everyone a role, Felix would collect articles and summarize them providing sources, Armani would write the actual script, and you would edit the script and design the slides. He was having a great time. In fact when it was over he couldn’t wait for the next meeting.

“See you later Felix.” Armani said smiling and waving, her gestures as large and vibrant as her personality. Felix smiled back “See you guys later.” “I’ll text you.” She responded. As you and Armani walked away, Felix couldn’t help but wonder…

How the hell did you two become friends?

𓆝𓆟𓆞𓆝𓆟

.☘︎ ݁˚₊‧ʚ ‪‪❤︎‬ ɞ‧₊˚ ݁☘︎ .

“You look really pathetic.”

“What?”

Armani’s eyes are full of tears, her lips trembling, knees pulled up to her chest, her head tilted back, her eyes looking up at the impeccably dressed seven year old girl whom now stood over her, casting a shadow on her already gloomy appearance. She couldn’t help the crack that pierced her words, combined with her crying and the brutal statement that just bestowed her ears.

The girl that stood above her, looked shockingly put together, something out of place in the recesses ground filled with tiny humans, who wore simple clothing adorned with grass and mud stains. Her on the other hand wore a pristinely white “Peter Pan” collared button up short sleeved shirt, a pastel yellow sweater vest with her name Y/N embroidered in the corner, a white pleated skirt, white lace trimmed ruffled socks, and lastly on her feet were white Mary Jane’s. Her hair was styled neatly to the back, a singular yellow ribbon bow as an accessory.

“What is wrong with her?” Armani thought. “That much white during recess. Is she crazy?”

As if the girl heard her thoughts, she smiled and said, “White shows confidence, superiority, and strength. Recess or not, you should also dress to command respect.” She glances at Armani’s state, “You should take notes. Clearly.” Armani had never met any one her age who spoke like that, in fact most adults she knew didn’t speak like that, not to her at least.

“What does that mean?”

The girl or Y/N rather, carefully lowers herself to Armani’s level, careful as to not to crease her shoes or dirty her clothes. “If you stay like this, people pleasing, you’ll only get hurt, now or later. Good news for you, it happened now. Letting people’s opinions of you dictate your actions, decisions, and mood, is an exhausting way to live and even worse to witness from a third person perspective. Look at you now, crying because you heard a bunch of snotty nosed losers calling you an abhorrent excuse for an insult like goody two shoes.” The girl ended with a tsk and roll of her eyes.

Y/n’s eyes bore into Armani’s, a look that made her subconsciously straighten up, suddenly feeling embarrassed.

“You know what kid? I actually like you, I see value in your personality, you just need a bit of polishing. I suppose I’ll help you.” Y/n stated as if she was a cowboy in some old western film, she stood up and outreached her hand for Armani to take. She did.

Standing up Armani dusted her clothes off and said, still sniffling, “Help me with what?”

“Not get hurt again and be like me.”

.☘︎ ݁˚₊‧ʚ ‪‪❤︎‬ ɞ‧₊˚ ݁☘︎ .

“And we’ve been friends ever since.”

“Two questions.”

“Go ahead.”

“One so she’s always been like this and two, why were you referring to yourself in third person Armani?”

Currently Felix and Armani sat in study hall, waiting for you. After an hour into working, you’d suddenly left, saying you needed a break. The two had fallen into casual conversation and somehow landed on the topic on how you had met Armani.

“For storytelling purposes, obviously.”

“Of course.” He responded laughing softly.

“To answer your first question though, yes she’s always been……opinionated, a jerk really. Her parents are like uber rich and subsequently pretty absent. She was always left with nannies, and her preferred avenue of entertainment were books……on books on books on books on books. She ran out of age appropriate books to read and began reading odd books.”

“Odd?” Felix asked.

“Yes odd, like the ‘How to have the mentality of a billionaire.’ type books.” Armani explained exaggerating her facial expressions and deepening her voice mockingly.

“Which I guess led to her forming opinions that aren’t necessarily wrong but maybe misguided. You can hear it by the way she speaks in monologues. I think it’s admirable, her dedication, but the times were she gets comfortable and speaks like a normal human being I think she’s even more amazing. I’ve tried telling her this but, she’s so stubborn that her mind can’t be changed. Although truth be told, she did help me a lot back then.”

Felix sighs, his shoulders slightly deflating, “That explains a lot but I still don’t understand, why doesn’t she like me.” Armani shrugs, putting a finger up to her lip, pouting, she looks up in thought. “I have absolutely no idea, I’ve never known her to not like anyone,not immediately at least, she’s usually just blunt. If i had to guess though she may be trying to help you.”

“Help me?”

“Yup.” Armani said popping the p.

“As you’ve heard she has a mini savior complex. Unfortunately though she’s usually correct about it, ie me.” She finished pointing a thumb at herself.

Suddenly two frappes were placed on the table in front of them, “What are you guys talking about?”

“Oh just about how you need therapy.” Armani said smiling at you a comically large smile,squinting her eyes animatedly.

“No thank you, that’d cause for self reflection, and GASP! working on myself. Oh no!.” You responded smirking, sliding a frappe towards Armani. “Of course, you’d just rather fix everyone else.” She returns. “Precisely. My grandiose sense of self actually doesn’t bother me.” Felix wonders if that’s really just sarcasm. You pop a straw into your frosty drink, before taking a sip. Armani nearly does the same before noticing Felix’s lack of beverage, she whips her head towards you, her face one made of an almost motherly disapproval. “Y/n?”

“Yes?”

“Why didn’t you get Felix anything?”

Felix chuckles awkwardly “It’s fine really, I’ve had too much caffeine today anyway.” He interjects.

“Sure, but you could’ve at least offered Y/n!”

“Seriously it’s fine.” Felix is in recovery mode. “Let’s just get back to w….”

“No Felix it isn’t fine.” You cut him off.

“I purposely excluded you for no other reason but to be mean, if I was you I’d stop defaulting to niceties.

Your gaze tightens on him, eyes dissecting him. He begins to feel naked despite being completely clothed.

“Though I suppose you’ve gotten too comfortable with that now.”

Felix brows furrow, his mouth opens before closing again “I don’t know how to respond to that.” He hates how speechless you always leave him, good or bad. Armani looks between the two of you, utter confusion written across her face. “Have you guys met before, like did Felix push your childhood puppy into a pit of acid or something?” Felix starts to wonder if he did that himself, there’s no other reason for you to behave like this, to treat him like this. His eyes meet yours and a smile appears across your face.

“You really don’t remember huh?”

“Remember what?” Felix eyebrows furrowed, his mouth slightly agape.

“I kind of figured you didn’t but truthfully, seeing it now, so blatant, has only solidified my opinion of you.”

“So you guys have met before.” Armani semi yelled as if she’s just had an “Ah Hah” moment. Others from surrounding tables glanced at her, theirs eyes tired and disapproving.

“When? Where? How? Y/n why didn’t you say anything, I’m sure this is all some big misunderstanding, we can talk about, and make up. Then we all can be one big happy presentation family!” She squealed, smiling.

Felix was completely misaligned. He’s just as out of the loop as Armani. Surely he’d remember someone like you, you’d had to be mistaken no way had met before. “If I’ve done something to you please just let me know so I can fix it. I would never intentionally do anything to hurt or offend you, so if I did please let me know. I want to make this right.

Your eyes are fixed on his, while he did anything to avoid eye contact. “You know I would be a bit more susceptible to talking it out with you if you’d looked me in my eyes. Regardless I have no interest whatsoever in mending things with you, to be quite frank with you, after this project I never want to speak with you again.”

Armani clapped her hands together, awkwardly smiling. “Welp, I don’t know about you but I’m feeling pretty tired, so how and we all just call it day and pick back up tomorrow. Very unfortunate we didn’t get anything done though.” She packed her bag before standing up. She grabbed your hand and pulled you to her side.

“See you later Felix.” She bided before ushering you out of the door.

Felix sat there longer than necessary, racking his brain, trying to remember you. To ant on lookers he must’ve appeared crazy. Sitting there unmoving, eyes shut, and brows furrowed. Try as he might he just couldn’t think of a single memory of you.

Someone is losing their mind and he couldn’t figure out whether it was you or him.

𓆝𓆟𓆞𓆝𓆟

“Good evening, Ms. Y/n.”

The young woman said smiling, with a light nod of her head. Her black and white uniform pristine, not a wrinkle or speck of lint in sight.

“I’ve told you already need for the Ms, Sydney. I’m pretty sure we’re nearly the same age any way.” You frown at her, shaking your head with playful disappointment.

“I know, it’s habit. I’m sorry.” She ends with a chuckle. Sydney is one of your parents maids. As much as it disgusts you to say that, unfortunately that is essentially what she is.

“Are my parents home yet?” You say slipping off your shoes, neatly placing them on the rack.

“No not yet, but they’ll be here soon.”

“Of course” you think to yourself. “Is the table set yet?”

You ask you make your way to the dining area, greeting the rest of the staff as you do.

“No, I apologize! This I was told 7:30. If I had known you were coming sooner I’d have done it quicker. I truly apol…..”

“I’ll help you.” You interject.

“What?” She looks at you with such confusion it concerns you.

“I’m perfectly capable of helping, so why would I let you do everything and just sit around doing nothing?”

“Thank you. Really.” She starts grabbing plates from the china cabinet and delicately places them on the table top.

“I haven’t done anything….” You sigh trailing off. “Not a single thing.” You and Sydney fall into a rhythm, placing china and cutlery.

“So is there a special occasion?” She asks, placing a pitcher of water on the table. You’re sat now, Sydney declined sitting with you stating she had responsibilities yet to be completed.

“My birthday.”

“Oh. Dinner with parents before the party huh?” She giggles, looking at you with a playful look in her eyes. Your mind wanders back to Armani asking if you’d wanted to do something for your birthday. You’d turn her down, citing that you had a dinner with your parents. The look in her eye when you had said that, a face undoubtedly saying “are you sure?” you weren’t. In fact you wanted nothing more than to have a fun night with just you and her, saying to hell with your parents. Unfortunately though you’re not that interesting, if your parents say dinner at 7:30 you’ll be there.

So when Sydney asks you….

“Oh. Dinner with parents before the party huh?”

You just smile.

—

You feel like a little girl again sitting there waiting for your parents to come home. You don’t know why but you always waited, you knew they’d never come by dinner but yet you always waited. Here you are waiting again, glancing at your phone’s clock that read 9:37. The pitcher of water moist with condensation, the ice homed in it, melted long ago.

You’re not upset anymore with them, that feeling left an hour ago, along with the staff. Around 8:20 Sydney came to you with a smile laced with pity, informing you of her leaving. She’d left the food on warmers in the kitchen, those of which you had turned off at around 9:13, not wanting anything to dry out.

Minnie taught you that. “People think that a warmer doesn’t cook the food, just leave it on there long enough and see what happens.” She’d said to you one day after you’d asked her why’d she’d always turn them off after a while of waiting on your parents. Minnie your childhood nanny would always wait with you. She knew just as good as you did that they weren’t coming, yet she’d wait anyway.

You sat and stared at the wall, thinking back to happy memories with her. All of these joyful moments flashed through your mind.

—

“Hello.” Your dad says, sitting down across from you. Your mom says nothing just smiles quickly. “It’s nearly ten o’clock.”

Your father chuckles as he looks at his watch. “So I see.”

You sit there for a moment in silence. “We’re waiting darling.” Your mom says suddenly. You look at her confused. “On you to bring out dinner, silly.” She laughs.

“It’s my birthday.”

“Y/n we’ve been working all day long, are you really going to make your tired parents get up?” Your dad scolds you as if you’re a child. You abruptly stand up and walk to the kitchen. You place the dishes on the table. Grilled fish, a side of salad, and asparagus. Your mom makes your dad and hers plate, then they begin eating.

“Aren’t you going to eat honey?” Whichever of them asks, you have no idea because your hearing has gone stuffy, your vision blurred, as your eyes filled with tears. You shut your eyes fighting back the tears.

“I’m allergic to fish.” You whisper. Your dad puts down his fork and raises his eyebrows, “Really? Since when.”

“Since I was three.”

Your parents looked at each other before eventually your dad shrugged returning to his meal.

“Oh,I had no idea.”

𓆝𓆟𓆞𓆝𓆟

Felix taps his ringed pointer finger against his lips. The computer screen cast a pale blue glow against his freckled face.

One Hundred Percent

The grade given to him by his professor did little to amend the feeling you left behind in him. After the incident you’d met as a group again, a few times actually. Somehow though, actually remarkably so, you had managed to not say a word to him. You didn’t need to, your eyes did it for you. A real talent you had he thought. To be able to make someone feel so cold, vulnerable, and uncomfortable with just one glance.

It seemed as if he wasn’t even worth the effort of a full look. He thinks he’d be fine if someone didn’t like him. Sure it’d never happened but he can respect everyone’s opinion regardless of what it was. You thought, oh god how it affected him in ways he’s ashamed to admit. Maybe it’s the lack of build up or explanation that does it, maybe it’s because he wasn’t even able to know you long enough for you to hate him so viciously.

“Hate is a strong word.” Chris tells him, but Chris has never been under the dismantling pressure that are your eyes. Such beautiful things they are, incredible how you were able to turn them into such a lethal weapon. On par with Gino’s domain expansion, or at least that’s what Felix thinks. It might as well be due to the way he feels frozen just from a simple side eye. Weeks of this just for a simple A.

That isn’t enough.

𓆝𓆟𓆞𓆝𓆟

“We got an A, we got an a!” Armani dances through your shared living space. “Please stop, we cannot afford another noise complaint. You’re behaving as if you’ve never gotten one.”

“Well considering how much of an asshole you were being during each session, I’m treating this as an award.” She stops her dancing to stand in front of you sassily, her facing positioned in a matching expression.

“Asshole is crude, I prefer bitch.” You smile at her. She plops down on the couch beside you. “Hey I don’t get why you don’t like him, even still I’m sure you have a real reason but sometimes you just have to let things go. Or at the very least get both sides to be at peace with it. I’m not saying forgive him for whatever it is he did but….” She sighs “I don’t know, you get what I’m saying, right? You don’t deserve to let it continue to anger you.”

“I’m not angry with him.”

“Then why else did you treat him like that?”

You lean your head against the back of the couch, sighing…..

“I just wanted to see if I was special.”

𓆝𓆟𓆞𓆝𓆟

“Alrighty guys, it’s time for rest hour, please everyone let’s be on our best behavior.” Camp counselor Luke announced loudly. Today was your first day at camp, any other year you’d be excited, not this summer though.

For whatever reason your parents had decided that right before they hugged you goodbye, would be the perfect time to tell you that they had fired your nanny who’d basically had raised you your entire life. Obviously this kinda ruined the whole summer camp experience.

They didn’t even bother to give you a reason, simply saying that she wasn’t the best fit for them anymore. Eleven years you had known this woman, and you were only twelve, and this is how they told you. So yeah it’s kinda surprising you were able to make it this long in the day without crying. Although you did have a reputation to uphold, so of course you could hide in a stall somewhere and cry, no you had to make sure there was no possible way someone could find you. You found a nice cozy spot free of poisonous plants behind a few bushes, entirely secluded from the rest of camp, no buildings or activities nearby, how could anyone find you here?

“Are you okay?”

You jump up, from your crisscrossed apple sauce position, completely startled. You turn facing the person who’d suddenly intruded on your personal time.

A messy brown haired, freckled boy is looking right at you, his eyes are filled with concern, his hands are tightly gripping a seemingly heavy basket.

“What are you doing here?” You say quickly wiping your face of tears, straightening your back, trying to appear as if you weren’t just doubled over in tears.

You smooth down your incredibly formal sun dress, that of which you had argued with the counselor over. They’d wanted you to change into a camp shirt and shorts, that did not fly with you, so after around ten minutes of bickering with the counselor, she gave in and allowed you to wear quote “the darn dress!”.

“I’m collecting rocks,” he holds up the basket, shaking slightly under the weight. “and I saw that you were crying and I wanted to see if you were ok.”

“I’m fine, and why are you collecting rocks here,” you wave your arms around, motioning to the space around you. “There are so many other places you could go.”

“You don’t look fine.”

You’re staring at him, pouting your lips, your arms are crossed, your weight is shifted on one leg causing your hip to pop out and your other knee to bend. The boy begins to softly smile.

“What’s funny?” You ask.

“Nothing,” he quickly says “it’s just the way you’re standing, it’s cute, I guess.”

You straighten up, because you aren’t supposed to look cute, you’re supposed to look mature and powerful.

“What’s your name kid? Who’s your family?” You try to make your voice sound as commanding as a twelve year old girl could.

“Um my name is Felix and I don’t really know how to answer the other question.” He responds nervously.

You reach out your hand for him to shake “Y/n L/n, my family are the L/ns. It’s your pleasure to meet me.” He chuckles and places his basket on the ground before shaking your hand.

“Seriously though if you want to talk about it we can.”

“About what?”

“About why you were crying.”

“I was….” You pause, taking a breath. “it’s none of your concern.”

He visibly frowns. “Yea but we’re camp buddies and camp buddies never lie to each other, and we always help each other.”

He smiles as if that means anything.

“Do you actually believe that? That’s just something counselor Luke says that if one of us breaks a rule, we’ll feel comfortable snitching on each other.” You weren’t wrong per se more so misguided. We won’t get into it but an incident happened last year at camp that caused you to have a certain distain towards “snitches”.

“Yeah I guess your right, but I want to be a councilor soon, so I’ve been trying to do things a councilor would , and one of those things is to make sure everyone is having fun at camp, and I don’t think you’re having fun.”

You sigh before plopping back down on the towel you had laid on the ground. “My parents fired my nannie.”

He sits down next to you, he actually looks interested in what you’re about to say. You turn to face him and his eyes look so comforting, you can’t help the tears that begin to form at your water line. “She was basically my mom, I see her more than my actual parents.” Your voice is shaky. “I thought she was like family so how could they fire her?” Tears finally begin falling from your eyes, as your lips quiver.

Felix gives a quick comforting smile before leaning in and hugging you. Your whole body stiffens for a split second before softening into the hug. You stay like this for a minute. Before Felix pulls away slightly and breaks the silence. You look at him teary eyed.

“Minnie, but I called her Mama Minnie.”

He smiles at that, “She has a kind name.” You nod your head vigorously “She is kind! She’s the kindest person in the world, she makes the best desserts, she always finds a way to entertain me, and she never speaks to me like I’m stupid!”

“Oh? She sounds amazing, you should introduce me to her one day.” Your shoulders deflate. “I don’t think my parents are going to let me see her again.” That realization nearly brought you to tears again, you hold it in though, you’ll be darned if you allowed him to see you cry for a third time.

“Aw. Wel-“ the camps intercom interrupts him. “Five minutes till dinner wash up.” He looks up at the intercom be turning his attention back to you. “We should be getting back.” He stands up and grabs his basket of rocks, nearly tipping over from the weight.

“Yeah.” You quietly respond, as you stand up, dusting your dress off. You both begin walking back to the main area, on the way you and Felix talk about a lot of things. He picks up a few “pretty rocks” on the way, stating that it was for the rock painting activity tomorrow. You just couldn’t see how a rock could be pretty and better believe you let him know.

“Do you want help?” You ask after seeing him struggle to carry the nearly full basket. He smiles. “Sure!” So you grab the other end and continue your walk back. Along with the soreness that began rising up your arm and new sense of hopefulness for the rest of camp arose in your chest.

𓆝𓆟𓆞𓆝𓆟

The rest of camp was amazing, Felix and you had become pretty good friends. Although you couldn’t spend as much time together as you would’ve liked, every moment you did manage to sneak was always special to you.

The last day had arrived and it was time for everyone to bid their goodbyes. Just as your driver had arrived at the parent’s dock, Felix ran up to you hurriedly.

“Y/n!” He shouted slightly out of breath before he finally reached you. “I have this for you.” He reached out his hand and in his palm was a smooth flat stone. Painted with pastels, decorated with glitter, and written slightly messily the words “See rocks can be pretty.” adorned the middle.

Your cheeks warm, and your lips curve into an unfortunately toothy smile. “Thanks, and I guess they can be.” He smiles back and says “Let’s keep in touch.”

“Definitely.”

Yeah right.

𓆝𓆟𓆞𓆝𓆟

The funny thing about college classes is that apparently you can attend a class three days a week for over half a semester and have absolutely no idea who some of your classmates are until the worst time possible. How do I know that? Well I don’t but Felix definitely does because the moment he enters his nutritional science class he nearly bumps into a table. Front row, right side, seventh seat, his eyes are attacked with pink. Pink notebook, pink textbook covers, pink binders, pink sticky notes, pink water bottle, pink pen case. All neatly arranged in front of you, in all of your painfully beautiful and pink glory.

How could he have missed you? Not only were you the most gorgeous woman he’s ever seen, but you’re literally a walking fucking color swatch. He knows this class doesn’t have set seating but boy oh boy was he shocked at himself. Is this class really that interesting? No it’s too hard, so hard that he apparently has to lock in on every single thing the professor is saying, that’s the only possible way he could’ve missed you, Felix thinks.

He admits he was staring. He truly didn’t know it though until you looked at him, your eyes locking into his. Then you waved and smiled, and so did he. He let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding. Relived he thought “maybe at the bakery that was just a poorly made joke”. He took a step forward and you shook your head no. Felix’s heart dropped to his ass.

You waved your hand to the side as if to dismiss him, before pointing at someone behind him and waving them over. A tall girl, with dyed pink hair (a reoccurring color with you) styled in a curly kinky puff. She was dressed in athletic wear as well, a brown fitted jacket with matching sweats. Felix wondered if you guys were in some club. He’d come to learn that this woman’s name was Armani, due to having to sit directly behind you. Turns out that whole debacle allowed for all of the best seats (seats away from you) to be taken.

Boy are you two quite the chatty pair, evidently this class wasn’t as difficult to you guys as it was for him. Don’t get him wrong you guys weren’t loud, or at least not loud enough for the professor to hear or to bother anyone else, but somehow loud enough to break his focus. Did you guys somehow find a way to speak at exactly the right pitch so as to only bother him, or was Felix just not able to pay attention to anything but you? Truly a great question but alas a question he was not willing to ask himself. Either way his lack of focus caused his mind to drift to earlier more than he would’ve liked. This sixty minute classed turned into Felix going through the following cycle-

1. Gain a bit of focus

2. Take notes

3. Hears murmurs or giggles from You and Armani

4. Focus breaks

5. Mind spirals from embarrassment because why would he ever think you were waving at him

6. Wishes that’d he’d never even showed up for class today.

Rinse and repeat. During the last say eight minutes of the class Felix was at stage five. Unfortunately for him these last minutes were used by the professor to announce group presentations. A group of three students were to present a study on misleading nutrition labels in modern day leading diet brands. Y/n and Armani were obviously going to partner with each other but oh no that’s just two people. Where on earth would they find a third?

Oh come on you’ve read a fanfic before, you know where this is going.

“Alright I see the lot of you have already grouped up, please raise your hand if you need help grouping.” Professor Henson says his eyes wondering around the room before landing on a hand that was raised and for whatever reason waving vigorously. “No need to wave Ms. L/N I see your hand.” He says chuckling softly. “Oh sorry, I just enjoy the way my bracelets sound.” A small smile formed on your lips watching his puzzled reaction.

“Oh”

“Anywho, we just need one more person for our group sir.” Mr. Henson’s eyes scan the room looking at the already formed groups who are sat together chatting. His gaze falls upon Felix, whose head is resting in his hand, which is unusual he’s usually pretty attentive, the professor thinks, I wonder if he’s ok. “Mr.Lee?” No response. “Mr.Lee?” Still no response. “Mr. Felix Lee?!” Felix’s head shoots up “So sorry, Mr. Henson, I apologize, I zoned out.” Your’s and Armani’s heads were both turned to look at him. Great he’s embarrassed himself for a second time in front of you today. “I see. Have you found a group for the upcoming presentation?”

“Presentation? Um, no I haven’t.”

“Great you can work with Ms. L/N and Ms. Vivian.” Mr. Henson responds gesturing to you and Armani. Felix isn’t being dramatic or maybe he is but he swears his ears start to ring. Felix has never been nervous about working in new groups. But when it came to you, he wasn’t just nervous but he was downright scared. Not only because he’s positive you two have gotten off on the wrong foot but also because of the very apparent look of disappointment on your face. He smiled trying to lighten things “Uh I guess we should exchange numbers then?” He says smiling nervously scratching the back of his neck. You look at him and smile a smile, which considering your next sentence could only be described as condescending and mocking. “Get it from the teacher.” You say before grabbing your things and leaving.

Oh so at the bakery….

You really weren’t joking.

Armani clears her throat while awkwardly tapping her legs. She lets out an (I’m trying not to make this anymore weird than it already is) laugh before extending her hand to Felix. “My name’s Armani *awkward exhale* I’ll give you our numbers.”

Lee Felix has never been hated by anyone.

Lee Felix has never hated anyone.

But he’s gotta admit he’s not incredibly fond of you.

You’ve always fit between them like you belonged there.

Minho on your left, calm and sharp eyed, arm slung over your shoulder. Jisung on your right, loud and warm, leaning too close, laughing too hard at everything you say. The three of you had been inseparable for years, long before stages, lights, and screaming fans.

That’s why it felt wrong when you laughed a little too long at Hyunjin’s joke, your hand softly hitting his shoulder.

Why Minho’s jaw tightened when Changbin leaned closer to hear you better.

Why Jisung stopped smiling altogether when Felix rested his chin on your shoulder.

The simple game night subtly turned into a competition. The prize? Your attention. Who could get closer to you, who could make you laugh more, who did you touch more? Whether or not the other guys were playing, who knows. But it for sure meant a lot to them.

Later that night, the dorm was quiet.

You were halfway down the hall when Minho’s voice stopped you.

“Come here.” You turned to see him standing there in the door frame of his room, grey sweats hanging low on waist, white tee fitting infuriatingly well against his body. His left hand relaxing in his pocket as his right was lifted, two fingers motioning you to come over.

The words weren’t a request, but a bid. A bid to see if you’d follow his command, and you did.

Jisung appeared behind you in the room, shutting the door. His eyes unreadable but bright with something dangerous. Not anger something closer to decision.

“You didn’t notice,” Jisung said lightly, his voice and presence giving you goosebumps. “But you’ve been testing our patience.”

Minho stepped closer, close enough that you could feel his warmth. “We’ve let a lot slide,” he murmured. “Because you’re you.”

Your heart pounded. “What are you saying?”

They exchanged a glance a silent conversation only they understood, a slight smirk playing at both their lips.

Jisung spoke, softer now. “We don’t like sharing.”

Minho tilted his head, eyes never leaving yours. “And tonight, we’ve decided we’re done pretending that being just friends is enough.”

ᓚᘏᗢ

"You're wasting so much flour!" you exclaimed, half-laughing and half-crying as Sunwoo flung another handful of it in your direction.

He was already doubling over in laughter, his hoodie dusted white. "Wasting? It's called creative baking."

"Oh really? And what part of dumping flour everywhere counts as creative?"

"It adds texture!" he shot back with a wink before lunging at you again, this time smearing frosting along your jawline.

You gasped, grabbing his wrist to stop him, but the grin on his face was impossible to resist. "Sunwoo, I swear, if you keep this up-"

"What?" he interrupted, cocking a brow and stepping closer. "What are you gonna do about it?"

Your breath caught as the teasing glint in his eyes darkened into something else entirely. He had you pinned now, his chest barely an inch from yours as your back pressed against the counter.

"I'm warning you," you said, though your voice came out weaker than intended.

"Go on, warn me," he murmured, his free hand sliding up to brush a streak of flour from your cheek. His touch lingered, his thumb grazing your skin in a way that made your heart stutter.

"Sunwoo.." you started, but your words dissolved into silence as he leaned in. His lips hovered over yours, so close you could feel his breath.

"You've got something here," he whispered, his thumb tracing the corner of your mouth before brushing over your bottom lip.

The playful tension snapped, replaced by something far hotter as his lips finally captured yours. The kiss was nothing like the teasing you were used to-it was heated, his hand slipping to your waist to pull you flush against him. His lips were soft yet insistent, his body pressing you into the counter as your fingers curled into the front of his hoodie.

The sugary mess around you only heightened the moment, the sweetness of frosting on his tongue as the kiss deepened. His hand slid up your side, his fingers brushing just beneath the hem of your shirt, sending a shiver through you.

"Sunwoo," you gasped as he pulled back, his lips swollen and his eyes filled with mischief.

"You're the one who started this war," he said, his voice lower now, his thumb brushing the edge of your jaw. "What? Can't handle the heat?"

"Is this about baking or... something else?" you asked, breathless.

He smirked, leaning down to press a trail of kisses along your jawline. "Why not both?"

You couldn't help but laugh, even as your cheeks burned and your knees threatened to give out. "We're never gonna finish these cookies at this rate."

The rink buzzed with activity, couples gliding gracefully over the ice while children clung to the walls, giggling with every wobble. You adjusted your scarf and tightened your skates, glancing over at Soobin, who stood at the edge of the rink with a sheepish smile.

“You ready?” you asked, grinning as you skated back toward him.

He nodded, though the uncertainty in his eyes was impossible to miss. “I think so… but don’t laugh if I fall, okay?”

“No promises,” you teased, grabbing his hand and tugging him gently onto the ice.

The first step was shaky—he gripped your hand so tightly you almost lost your balance, a yelp escaping him as his skates wobbled beneath him. You bit your lip to suppress a laugh, but he caught the amusement in your eyes and pouted.

“You said you wouldn’t laugh!”

“I said no promises,” you replied, chuckling. “Come on, it’s not that hard. Just take it slow.”

Soobin mumbled something under his breath but followed your lead, his other arm flailing slightly as he tried to steady himself. You skated backward, guiding him step by step, his fingers clinging to yours like a lifeline.

“See? You’re doing great!” you encouraged.

“Barely,” he muttered, but a shy smile tugged at his lips.

The rink’s twinkling string lights cast a warm glow over the ice, reflecting off the frosted surface like tiny stars. As the night went on, Soobin grew steadier, though his movements were still far from graceful. A sudden burst of confidence had him attempting to skate on his own, only for him to stumble and land on his knees with a loud “Oof!”

You gasped before bursting into laughter, quickly skating to his side. “Are you okay?”

He looked up at you with wide eyes, his cheeks flushed—whether from embarrassment or the cold, you couldn’t tell. “I think my pride’s more bruised than anything else,” he admitted, letting you help him up.

“You’re such a dork,” you teased, your tone light as you brushed some ice off his coat.

“But I’m your dork, right?” he said, grinning as he reached for your hand again.

Your heart skipped at his words, the playful sincerity in his voice catching you off guard. “Yeah, you are,” you replied softly, your fingers tightening around his.

From that moment, the nerves and clumsiness seemed to fade. You skated together, your hands never parting as laughter echoed around the rink. Every time Soobin stumbled, he pulled you closer, steadying himself by leaning into you. The world beyond the rink faded, leaving just the two of you under the sparkling lights.

As the session wound down, you found yourselves standing near the edge of the rink, leaning against the railing. Your breath formed little clouds in the air, and Soobin’s gaze softened as he looked at you.

“This was fun,” he said, his voice quieter now. “Thanks for being patient with me.”

“You’re worth the patience,” you replied, feeling your cheeks warm despite the chill.

Before you could say anything more, he leaned in, his lips brushing yours in a tentative, feather-light kiss. The cold melted away as your eyes fluttered shut, your hand coming up to rest against his chest. When he pulled back, his smile was brighter than the lights overhead.

“You’re the best skating partner,” he said, his dimples on full display.

“And you’re the clumsiest,” you teased, but the warmth in your tone made it clear you wouldn’t have it any other way.

The rhythmic hum of the ski lift filled the silence as you and Jaemin sat side by side, the snow-covered mountains stretching endlessly around you. The air was crisp, each breath you took forming tiny puffs of mist that quickly dissipated. Below, the world looked like a winter postcard, but up here, the only thing that mattered was the boy sitting next to you.

The lift had stopped a few minutes ago, and though you were bundled up in layers, the cold was starting to seep in. Jaemin shifted beside you, his knee brushing against yours through the thick fabric of your snow pants.

“You okay?” he asked, his voice soft but carrying over the stillness of the mountains.

“Yeah,” you replied, glancing at him. His cheeks were flushed, probably from the biting air, but it made him look even more striking, his features framed by the hood of his jacket.

“Guess we’re stuck for a bit,” he said with a small laugh, rubbing his gloved hands together. “Not the worst place to be stranded, though.”

You smiled, watching the way his eyes crinkled at the corners when he grinned. “Could be worse. At least the view is nice.”

He turned to you, his gaze lingering longer than usual. “Yeah… the view is definitely nice.”

Your stomach flipped at his tone, and you quickly looked away, pretending to focus on the pine trees below. The silence stretched again, but this time, it felt charged, like something unsaid was hanging in the air between you.

“Y/N,” he said suddenly, breaking the quiet.

“Yeah?”

He hesitated, his breath hitching slightly before he continued. “I’ve been meaning to tell you something. For a while now, actually.”

Your heart started to race, the cold forgotten as warmth spread through your chest. You turned to face him, your brows furrowed slightly in curiosity. “What is it?”

He let out a nervous laugh, running a hand through his hair even though it was already covered by his hood. “This is probably the worst time to say this, but I can’t wait any longer. Being here with you, just the two of us… it feels like the right moment.”

You blinked, your breath catching as he leaned slightly closer. His eyes searched yours, his usual playful demeanor replaced with something softer, more vulnerable.

“I like you,” he said simply, his words carried away slightly by the wind but still hitting you with full force. “I’ve liked you for so long, and I didn’t know how to say it. But now that we’re here, I just… I needed you to know.”

The world seemed to pause, the cold air suddenly feeling warmer as his words sank in. You stared at him, your lips parting slightly in surprise.

“Jaemin…” you started, but he interrupted you, his hand reaching out to lightly graze yours.

“It’s okay if you don’t feel the same,” he said quickly, though his voice wavered. “I just needed you to know. You mean so much to me, and I didn’t want to keep this to myself anymore.”

Your chest tightened at the sincerity in his eyes, the way he looked at you like you were the only thing that mattered. Without thinking, you leaned forward, closing the small distance between you.

Your lips met his, soft and hesitant at first, but quickly melting into something deeper. The cold air disappeared entirely as warmth spread through you, the kiss grounding you in the moment. When you finally pulled away, his eyes were wide, his cheeks even redder than before.

“I like you too,” you whispered, a shy smile tugging at your lips.

His expression shifted into one of pure joy, his grin so bright it made your heart skip a beat. “You have no idea how happy that makes me,” he said, his voice almost breathless.

The ski lift jolted slightly, signaling that it was about to move again, but neither of you seemed to care. The mountains, the snow, the world below—it all faded into the background as you sat there, hearts racing and smiles matching.

The kitchen was a whirlwind of holiday chaos. Bowls of icing in every color, candies of all shapes and sizes, and gingerbread pieces covered every surface. Taeyong stood across from you, his brow furrowed in concentration as he carefully piped white frosting along the roof of his gingerbread house.

“You’re taking this way too seriously,” you teased, struggling to get your own frosting to cooperate.

He glanced up with a playful smirk. “And you’re not taking it seriously enough. You’re supposed to build a house, not a leaning tower of gingerbread.”

You gasped, feigning offense. “Excuse me! It’s abstract. Ever heard of modern architecture?”

He laughed, setting down his piping bag. “Right. Let’s see how modern it looks when it collapses.”

You stuck your tongue out at him, grabbing a handful of gumdrops to add to the roof. But as you reached across the table, your arm accidentally knocked over a bowl of powdered sugar, sending a cloud of white dust everywhere.

“Y/N!” Taeyong exclaimed, his wide-eyed expression quickly dissolving into laughter. “You’re a disaster!”

“It was an accident!” you protested, though you couldn’t help but laugh too.

Before you could defend yourself further, you felt a cold blob of frosting land on your cheek. You turned to see Taeyong holding his piping bag, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.

“Oh, it’s on,” you said, grabbing your own piping bag and aiming right back at him.

What started as a friendly competition turned into a full-blown frosting fight. You chased each other around the kitchen, smearing icing on noses, cheeks, and foreheads until you were both breathless with laughter and covered in sugar.

“Truce!” Taeyong finally said, holding up his hands as he leaned against the counter. “I surrender.”

You approached him cautiously, still holding your piping bag like a weapon. “You sure about that?”

He nodded, his smile softening. “Yeah. I think I’ve had enough frosting for one day.”

As you lowered your guard, Taeyong suddenly reached out, swiping a bit of icing from your cheek with his thumb. He held it up between you, his gaze locking with yours.

“You’ve got a little…” he trailed off, his voice quieter now.

“Yeah, I wonder why,” you said, your breath hitching as his thumb brushed your skin again.

The playfulness in his eyes shifted into something warmer, something that made your heart race. Slowly, he leaned in, the sugary chaos around you fading into the background. When his lips met yours, it was soft and sweet, like the frosting still lingering between you.

The kiss lasted longer than you expected, the warmth of his touch spreading through you like a cozy holiday glow. When he pulled back, his cheeks were dusted with pink, but his smile was bright.

“I think I won,” he said, his voice teasing but gentle.

You laughed, shaking your head. “Pretty sure this was a team effort.”

Taeyong grinned, grabbing a towel to wipe some frosting off his face. “Fine. But next time, I’m building the gingerbread house and kissing you first.”