Lila!

"We should have a toast first." San spoke up.

Seonghwa, eager as ever, stood and held his glass up. "Thank you to everyone who worked hard on this comeback. It wouldn't have been possible without you. To my members, let's enjoy some time to ourselves and celebrate our win. Fighting!"

"Fighting!" The group chorused.

Everyone collectively raised their glasses and downed their shots, Hongjoong's lips pressing together at the bitter aftertaste. You cleared your throat, dropping the glass back down onto the table.

"One more. One more." Wooyoung eagerly chanted, grabbing for an open bottle.

"Are you trying to get us drunk before we even eat?" Hongjoong chastised teasingly.

"Hey, loosen up." Wooyoung laughed. "We're celebrating."

Another round was poured and everyone threw back their shots. Jongho, the most immune, started filling his glass again for a third round.

Mingi laughed, pointing at the youngest. "Look at this guy."

While the others cut up with one another and goofed off, Hongjoong turned to you, his gaze lingering long enough for you to notice.

"After such a busy schedule, seeing you is like a breath of fresh air." His hand found yours under the table, his thumb caressing your knuckle.

A chorus of "ooh's" rang out, bringing your attention to the many platters of food being brought to the table, their savory aroma dancing in the air.

An array of side dishes were spread along the table to pair with the grilled beef and pork. Everyone had the same wide-eyed expression, reaching for their chopsticks eagerly.

"I'm gonna show you how to properly eat grilled pork belly." Hongjoong grabbed a piece of meat, taking a little of the side dishes, steering clear of the vegetables, and creating one perfect bite.

Instead of eating it himself, he held it out to you. You let him feed you, barely managing to get it all in one bite.

"Mmm!" You hummed in approval, giving him a thumbs up.

"I told you." He grinned proudly.

Food disappeared and glasses continued to be refilled. All the while, you were witnessing firsthand the rapid effects the soju was having on your boyfriend. He didn't have a noticeable pink flush, but his behavior gave it away. Hongjoong giggled more, finding everyone entertaining. He laughed that loud belly laugh of his that you loved so much. The alcohol had definitely loosened him up, allowing a glimpse of a goofier Hongjoong you didn't get to see often.

He wasn't the type for a lot of PDA, but with all those shots coursing through his veins, he became more touchy. He would give your hand a little pat, lean over to bump shoulders, and even rested his hand on your thigh.

After Yunho made some ridiculous pun, your boyfriend leaned over on you as he cackled, which he'd been doing often, losing his balance despite being seated.

"You alright?" You chuckled.

"Yeah." He drawled with a grin, draping his arm over your shoulder. "Never better."

A discussion at the opposite end of the table seemed to have sparked an impromptu karaoke session. Mingi stood up to belt out lyrics, dragging poor Yeosang to stand beside him. Hongjoong got up and swayed with the others, bumping into you while singing along. Even San, who had been sitting quietly, was now on his feet singing loudly. You were grateful to be in a separate dining room, away from any patrons looking for a peaceful meal.

Watching the guys was so entertaining, you almost missed your boyfriend going to do a handstand, his legs hoisting into the air beside you.

"Hongjoong!"

He took a couple wobbly steps before dropping his feet back to the floor. He stood upright, laughing heartily. The other members seemed unfazed by his behavior, like it was just another day.

"Ohh captain's drunk!" Laughed Seonghwa, who was already teetering on the edge of intoxicated.

"He does this all the time." Yunho assured you, grinning at Hongjoong's drunken enthusiasm.

"Careful." You warned in a lighthearted tone.

He waved a dismissive hand. "Ah. I'm fine."

Once the group sing along ceased, Hongjoong sat back down, taking a bite of grilled beef, his free hand coming to rest on your thigh. Your eyes darted down at the contact, his touch warm, even through the fabric of your pants.

He chatted with the boys, discussing some of the highlights of the comeback, recalling a few funny mishaps during the promotional period.

"No, no. Tell the story about how you slung your mic across the stage at M Countdown." Hongjoong said to Mingi through a laugh, his touch leaving your thigh to absentmindedly reach for your hand.

The rapper began his tale of woe, leaving the entire table laughing, including you.

The topic switched and your attention drifted from the conversation when you felt Hongjoong's forehead hit your shoulder.

"I'm so glad you're here." He drawled drunkenly.

"I am too."

"You're so nice." He murmured. "And you're all mine."

"That's right." You had to conceal the amusement creeping into your tone.

On a regular day, Hongjoong was possessive—in a sweet and endearing kind of way, but tonight the alcohol had brought out a more vocal side of him.

"You won't look at other idols, right? Only me?" He asked in a murmur, lips in a soft pout.

"Only you." A chuckle slipped out. "I promise."

"Mmm." He nuzzled against you. "Good. You can't look at other idols. Just look at me."

"I will." You snickered. "You tired?"

He nodded.

The other members were equally as wasted, some worse than others. The group's manager gathered them all, guiding them towards the communal SUV that took them out. Hongjoong shuffled behind you, dropping into his seat, his head falling limply onto your shoulder as you wrestled with his seatbelt, clicking it into place.

He was out like a light within minutes, the street lamps briefly illuminating his face as they passed. Getting him inside and into bed would prove to be a challenge, but it was one you were willing to tackle. And you'd definitely be teasing him for his behavior tomorrow when he was sober.

𝐒𝐄𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐇𝐖𝐀 | 성화 | w.c 1,460

Mingi's arms gesticulated wildly as he told some elaborate story over dinner, Wooyoung cutting in every so often to correct him when he misquoted something.

"It's been so long since we've gone out as a group." Seonghwa said to you, his eyes glimmering with unspoken, but visible, appreciation. The undertone of excitement in his voice didn't go unnoticed either.

The entire table was buzzing with conversation as everyone pored over the menu, discussing what they were craving.

"Wahh. They have boiled pork belly and seafood pancakes." He gaped. "I don't know what it is, but greasy food always pairs well with soju."

You considered Seonghwa to be a connoisseur of sorts when it came to food and what combinations were the best, so you trusted his opinion.

"They have the brand of beer I like too." He pointed on the menu. "I might have one."

Seonghwa was a lightweight when it came to alcohol. He knew that, you knew that, the whole group knew that. However, Seonghwa knew his limits.

"Should we order some spicy rice cakes?" Yeosang asked, glancing down the table.

"Two." Yunho added enthusiastically, holding up two fingers.

"That sounds good." Seonghwa gasped.

The entire group loved food and would chime in when someone suggested something particularly delicious. Once the order was placed, multiple bottles of beer and soju were brought to the table. Jongho grabbed one and started doing tricks with it, creating a cyclone with the alcohol. Seonghwa took one and opened it in a showy manner, rotating and twisting it open. You chuckled at his theatrics, watching as he poured you a shot of soju. Mingi did the honors of pouring Seonghwa's, filling it to the brim

"Woah. Woah. What's that?" You laughed loudly, pointing to the overflowing shot.

"Hey, Mingi's no good at this." Wooyoung shook his head.

"You can't pour it out." Jongho cut in.

Seonghwa took the glass, examining it before grinning clinking his glass softly against yours with a small, "Cheers."

He tilted it back, taking it like a champ. You followed, drinking your own glass. The burn was subtle, lingering in your chest after you took the shot.

Seonghwa released a long "Ahh." and sat back in his chair.

"Let's have another round." Wooyoung suggested, already working to pour more shots for those around him.

Seonghwa refilled your glass and let you do the same to his. You made sure not to overdo it like Mingi did, giving him a normal level of alcohol.

The warmth from the soju mixed perfectly with the cozy and welcoming atmosphere of the restaurant. Conversations buzzed between the group, Yunho telling a particularly interesting story about Yeosang walking into his room naked while he was doing a livestream.

"I was laid on the bed holding my phone and I see Yeosang in my peripheral."

Yeosang was laughing, but you could see his ears were pink, and it wasn't from the alcohol.

You had your hand over your mouth, nearly doubled over in your seat from laughing so hard.

"No one saw him, right?" Hongjoong asked Yunho.

"No, no. But I told Atiny about it as it was happening and everyone wanted me to turn the camera around."

The entire table burst into laughter.

"That's our Atiny." Mingi chuckled.

During the conversation, Seonghwa decided to crack open one of the beers while it was still cold, taking a sip of it.

He let out a noise of approval, his brows pulled together in an expression that let you know he enjoyed it. He looked towards you with a little smile, leaning over to say quietly, "You look really pretty tonight."

The heat of a blush spread across your cheeks and all you could manage was a shy thank you.

Amidst the discussions and silent exchanges, glasses were refilled and ready for another round.

After Seonghwa's third shot, you could tell he was starting to loosen up. He was laughing louder and being extra cheeky, his ears sporting a deep shade of pink.

"Let's play a drinking game." He piped up.

Yunho's expression brightened at that and Jongho nodded in agreement.

"Okay. Pick one." Hongjoong nodded towards Seonghwa.

Immediately, a game chant was started, prompting your boyfriend to give his answer at the end of it.

"What about 369 game?"

A chorus of excited noises echoed down the table as everyone got ready.

It started on the opposite side of the table, Yeosang began the game by calling out one. It went to Wooyoung, who called out two, then San clapped. The game continued, going around the table until the second round of numbers when they started to get higher. Seonghwa, poor guy, missed his cue to call a number, prompting the group to start chanting, "Idiot shot! Idiot shot!"

Seonghwa's giggles filled the air and Yunho did the honors of pouring the shot—to the brim. Seonghwa examined the glass with wide eyes.

"You don't have to drink it all." Hongjoong assured him.

"No. I can do it." He insisted, cheeks flushed.

His nimble fingers took the glass, raising it to his lips and tilting it back.

It took two servers to bring out everything that was ordered. Bowls of steaming rice cakes, glistening cuts of pork belly, perfectly browned seafood pancakes, and other dishes were laid out on the table for the group.

Your foodie boyfriend's eyes were wide with wonder as the food was brought to the table, darting from platter to platter. Some of the members laughed at his awed expression, a few teasing remarks made here and there.

"Cure." San giggled.

"What do you want on your plate?" Seonghwa asked you, brown irises shimmering under the dim restaurant lighting.

Your heart softened at his attentiveness. Even tipsy, he made sure that you were taken care of.

Everyone fell silent, quietly enjoying the spread of dishes brought to the table. You glanced over to check on Seonghwa periodically, watching lovingly as he took massive bites of his food.

You stifled a chuckle, to which he gave you a blissfully blank stare.

"What?"

You shook your head. "You're just cute when you eat."

His face melted into the most adorable little smile, his eyes going soft. In a split second, he closed the distance between your faces, pressing a kiss to your cheek. You blinked at the public display of affection and before you could fully react to it, Seonghwa went back to stuffing his face.

As the night progressed, his eyes became rounder and more glossy, his cheeks and neck tinged a deep pink—a clear sign he was drunk.

"Hwa, love." You murmured.

He turned to you with a ditzy expression, blinking expectantly. "Yes?"

"Are you feeling alright?"

"I'm fine!" His words were accompanied by a slight slur. "Let's play another drinking game!"

A few suggestions were thrown out there before everyone settled on one. You participated in the game, watching Seonghwa giggle throughout the whole thing.

"You messed up!" Wooyoung pointed to San, who was barely hanging on. "Penalty shot."

Seonghwa laughed loudly. "Haha! Idiot."

He was being particularly adorable, unintentionally cranking up the cuteness.

He wobbled in his seat, leaning sideways into you when he laughed, needing support, lest he go toppling to the floor.

When the evening came to a close and everyone was taken back home. You were left to deal with a drunken Seonghwa who staggered while trying to get his shoes off in the doorway. His roommates, San and Mingi disappeared to their own rooms. San was about to fall asleep standing up while Mingi couldn't stop laughing at him.

You barely managed to get Seonghwa to his room without stumbling. As soon as you released him, he dropped down onto the side of his bed.

You sighed softly and cupped his cheeks, gently forcing him to look at you. His face was the reddest it's ever been and his brown eyes were glistening in the dim lamps in his room.

"You're so pretty." He murmured, gazing up like you'd hung the moon.

"You're very drunk right now." You giggled quietly.

"But I still think you're pretty."

"Thank you, Hwa. You're pretty too."

His puffy eyes widened. "I am?"

"Yes." You stifled a soft laugh. "Now, I think pretty boys like you need some beauty sleep, yeah?"

He nodded with a cute little noise.

He didn't bother with pajamas, merely stripping down to his boxers and collapsing in his bed. You stole one of his shirts and a pair of sweats, turning off his lamp and crawling into bed. He was glued to your side in an instant, curled up against you.

"Soft."

You reached up to caress his hair, earning a faint noise in response. "Goodnight, Hwa."

"G'night." He slurred, already dozing off.

𝐘𝐔𝐍𝐇𝐎 | 윤호 | w.c 1,030

It was a cozy Friday night with Yunho. The coffee table was littered with partially-eaten containers of food and bottles of soju that had long been opened. An exhausting week of work was behind you and your weekend was being kicked off by having a game night with your boyfriend who'd just gotten a new game for his PlayStation. The Spider-Man-themed controller was clutched between your hands, your fingers moving swiftly over the buttons and joysticks.

"Good job, good job, good job." He repeated, eyes glued to the TV screen.

Yunho was leaned forward, completely engrossed in the gameplay, barely even blinking, lest he miss something.

His body jerked and he yelped. "Dodge! Hurry, hurry."

Your thumbs toggled the controls and you moved your avatar out of the line of fire, your heart pounding from the adrenaline.

One by one, the both of you worked to take out enemies from the other team until the very end. There was only one player left from the opposing side. You located their hideout and ambushed them with Yunho, taking them down and winning the game.

Yunho threw his hands up in victory, leaning over to pepper your face in kisses.

"That's my girl!" He praised, stirring up butterflies in your stomach. "Let's celebrate with a shot."

His neck and ears were already red and the same rosy hue was starting to spread to his cheeks from previous shots, but you agreed anyway.

You set aside the game controller and let Yunho pour up a glass, taking the bottle from him to serve him in return.

"To a good game." He toasted, clinking his shot glass with yours before tilting his head back.

You mirrored his movements, feeling the subtle burn that followed. You returned to your partially-eaten food that still held a little warmth, chewing quietly as the background music for Yunho's game filled the room.

"Should we watch something?" He asked.

"Yeah. I think I'm ready to relax for a bit."

Yunho immediately opened up one of his streaming services and scrolled the options.

"How about this one? We've been putting it off." He offered.

The thumbnail for an anime that recently released was displayed on the screen along with a description.

"It's got that one character in it." He added, proceeding to dramatically mimic said character from popular clips that had circulated social media.

His goofy behavior never failed to make you laugh. Giggles bubbled up out of you and Yunho's already glossy eyes seemed to shimmer.

"Let's do it." You agreed.

The first episode started to play and Yunho situated himself against you, his thigh pressed against yours, an arm draped behind you. You leaned into his side, eyes focused on the screen. Throughout the next few episodes, Yunho alternated between eating and taking a few sips of soju, opting to drink straight from the bottle.

At first, you paid no mind to it. Yunho had a decent alcohol tolerance, so you knew he wouldn't get plastered. He would gradually shift his position, sometimes pulling you right into his chest, keeping you very close. This behavior was a little clingier than normal. It wasn't anything to be alarmed about though, so you let him do as he wished and lay however he wanted.

It wasn't until he started grabbing your hand to play with it and peppering your arm with kisses that you realized something was up. You could no longer concentrate on the anime, as Yunho's clinginess was taking most of your attention.

"You okay?" You finally asked, your voice tinged with amusement as you watched the way he nuzzled against the back of your hand.

"Mhm." He hummed blissfully, releasing your hand to wrap his arm around you, pulling your body against his.

You shivered when he pressed his face into the crook of your neck, releasing a warm breath right against your skin.

"You're so soft." He murmured, words slurred.

His lips pressed firmly to the junction between your neck and shoulder, making your eyelids flutter involuntarily. He pulled back to nuzzle into your jaw, lips brushing along it.

"I love you." He uttered drunkenly. "M'so lucky."

The ticklish sensations caused you to shiver. "I love you too, Yun."

He leaned over, putting more of his weight on you until you were laid on the couch, partially trapped beneath his body.

"Yunho." You chuckled.

He laughed in response, settling fully on top of you.

"You're really comfy."

"And you're drunk."

"Only a liiitle." He drawled, snuggling into you.

Yunho's weight was comforting, his body warm and cozy. He shifted, pressing a clumsy kiss to the corner of your mouth, his hand slipping underneath the hem of your shirt to caress your bare waist.

"This is nice." He murmured, pressing his lips to your jaw.

His kisses were messy and uncoordinated, but stirred butterflies in your gut nonetheless.

"We're missing the show." You whispered, fingers carding gently through his hair.

"S'okay."

You had no doubt that if Yunho was with a group of friends right now, he would be laughing and bouncing everywhere, but due to the lazy atmosphere, the alcohol was making him feel heavy.

He pulled back just enough to look at you, his glazed brown eyes glimmering in the light of the TV. He gazed at you like you were the most beautiful thing he'd ever laid eyes on.

"What?" You decided to ask.

"You're the prettiest girl I've ever seen."

"Okay. That's definitely not true."

"It is." He insisted, dragging the words out with a faint whine.

Instead of arguing, you indulged him. "Well, thank you."

"You're welcome." He hummed, dropping his head onto your chest with a little huff of self-satisfaction. "I know what I'm talking about, y'know."

"Hm?"

"I'm a little tipsy, but I know what I'm saying."

You believed him. After all, his tolerance for alcohol was impressive.

"Then I want you to tell me again tomorrow."

"I will. I'll scream it from the rooftops."

"That's not necessary." You giggled, brushing his hair. "Just rest for now."

At your words, Yunho's body relaxed and he fell silent, save for his soft breathing.

"Goodnight." You whispered.

𝐘𝐄𝐎𝐒𝐀𝐍𝐆 | 여상 | w.c 1,430

Green bottles of soju were scattered along the tabletop, one of them already empty. You and your boyfriend were usually homebodies, preferring to stay in rather than go out. However, tonight, you found yourselves in an outdoor eating area beside a food truck. An array of classic Korean meals and side dishes were spread along the tabletop, some partially eaten. The tent covering the dining area made for a comfortable experience and it helped that there were only two people in there besides yourselves.

Yeosang took a rice cake between his chopsticks and popped it into his mouth, humming appreciatively.

"This is nice." You sighed, grabbing a generous bite of ramen, slurping the noodles quietly.

"Mhm." Your boyfriend nodded, chewing with a little pout on his lips—an adorable habit of his.

You reached for your phone, opening the camera and snapping a couple pictures as discreetly as possible, wanting desperately to capture this moment. Unfortunately for you, Yeosang was much more aware than you hoped in that moment, his eyes catching the top of your phone peeking from over the edge of the table.

"Hey."

You jerked your phone out of sight and started laughing out of embarrassment at being caught.

"Sorry. You looked cute."

"I'm not cute." He denied.

"Right, right." You chuckled, recalling how Yeosang didn't like being called that. "Then what do I do? What am I supposed to call you?"

"Call me handsome. Sexy, maybe?" He grinned, wiggling his brows.

"When you're eating with a pout on your face? That's impossible." You huffed dramatically, slumping forward.

"Okay." He relented. "I'll give you a pass this once. Only once, because you're my girlfriend."

You gave a small laugh, knowing that was a lie. He let you call him cute all the time.

"How generous."

Yeosang set his chopsticks aside and reached for another bottle of soju.

"Wanna see something I learned from Jongho?"

"A bottle trick?"

He nodded, taking the bottle and holding it sideways before jerking it upright, the force of the movement causing a small tornado inside the glass.

"Ooh." You clapped. "Impressive."

He had that signature tiny shy smile on his face at your praise.

"Here. Try it." He pressed the bottle into your palm, his fingers brushing yours.

You mimicked his movements, jerking the bottle, watching as a partial cyclone spun inside the glass.

"I did it! Sort of." You chuckled, passing it back to Yeosang who cracked the seal and poured you both another round. You clinked your glasses and downed the shot in one smooth motion.

"Should we play a game?" He asked, licking his lips.

"Which one did you have in mind? A lot of them require a group."

"Let's just do rock, paper, scissors. Leave it up to chance."

A slow grin spread across your lips. "I'm down."

Yeosang rested his elbow on the table, fingers curled into a fist. You mirrored him, your eyes meeting his.

"Rock, paper, scissors. Shoot!" He chanted, sticking two fingers out in the form of scissors.

You had kept your same starting stance, your hand still clutched into a fist.

"Ha!" You laughed. "Take a shot, Sangie. I win."

He smirked, taking his loss in stride as you poured him a glass, watching him throw back the shot.

"Okay. Round two." You grinned, holding your fist out again. "Rock, paper, scissors. Shoot!"

You chose paper this time, Yesoang stuck with scissors.

"Ah." You dropped your head as your boyfriend's devious giggles reached your ears.

When you lifted your gaze, he was already pushing your penalty shot across the table.

You shook your head, grabbing the glass and drinking down the soju inside.

You played a few more rounds, your heart racing every time you made your move. Much to your relief, Yeosang ended up drinking the most. Though you had your fair share of losses.

"I think I have to tap out." You giggled, feeling a little buzz coming on.

"Not me." Yeosang shook his head, pouring another shot just for fun.

"Are you sure about that?" There was a hint of amusement in your question.

"Of course I'm sure. I'm good at drinking." He insisted, downing the shot.

"Suit yourself." You huffed out a laugh, taking another bite of food. "Unlike you, I wanna be able to remember this tomorrow."

"Don't worry about me." He waved his hand dismissively.

You huffed out a laugh and shook your head.

While you eased up on the drinking, Yeosang kept pouring shots, alternating between drinking and eating. His ears were red and the color was slowly creeping onto his cheeks. His behavior was changing too. Normally, he was calmer and more laid back. Now, he was acting cuter, pouting and speaking in a higher tone.

"Whew." Yeosang huffed, shrugging off his jacket. "It's hot in here."

Your eyes were instantly drawn to what he wore underneath the jacket. A tight black tank top, his favorite one.

Yeosang's gentle, angelic laughter filled the air and your attention snapped up.

"What are you looking at?" He asked, his tone carrying a cutesy lilt.

"Nothing." You lied.

"Come on." He drawled with a teasing grin, his glassy eyes glinting with amusement. "Tell me."

"I'm look at you, silly." You responded, trying to play it off as nothing.

More giggles spilled from his pretty pink lips as he swayed in his chair.

"You're wasted."

"No. I'm Yeosang."

You pressed your lips together to suppress a laugh.

"Hey." Yeosang drawled, his big eyes glimmering. "Let's take a walk."

"I think that's a good idea." You said, getting to your feet and offering him your hand.

His fingers curled around your palm and he stood, swaying on his feet.

"Woah there." You stumbled forward to help stabilize him.

He leaned on you, giggling.

"Alright, bud." You grabbed his jacket draped across the back of his chair and started making your way out of tent. "Let's go."

The night air hit your skin, the temperature outside cooler than inside the sheltered tent.

Yeosang shivered, walking closer and pressing his face into your hair.

"Cold." He whined.

"Let's get your jacket back on." You pulled away, holding it out for him. "Maybe cover up those distractions too."

"Distractions?"

You eyed his chest and arms, causing him to smile shyly. "Oh."

He tugged on his jacket, returning quickly to your side, draping an arm around your shoulders. You supported some of his weight, keeping him steady as you strolled down the sidewalk.

Yeosang yawned. "Mmh. I change my mind." The pout in his voice was evident. "I wanna go back home."

"Getting sleepy?"

He nodded against you. "Wanna cuddle with my girlfriend."

You huffed out a laugh. "Yeah?"

"Yeah."

His eyes were barely open and his pretty lips were pushed into an unintentional pout.

"You're so adorable when you're drunk." You murmured with a soft laugh, unable to keep the thought to yourself.

"Nooo." He dragged out. "I'm not cute. I'm sexy."

"You don't realize this, but your cuteness level goes up when you're drunk."

"It does not." He whined, leaning further against you.

"Alright." You relented. "Whatever you say."

He swayed and bumped into you with a small grunt.

"Easy." You warned.

He giggled, clinging tighter to you and nuzzling into your hair. "Sorry." He murmured, letting out a dreamy hum at being so close.

As you returned to your apartment, Yeosang put more of his weight on you, his feet dragging across the concrete, indicating just how tired he was.

You managed to get him inside and lead him into the bedroom where he detached from you, barely having time to shrug off his jacket before he dropped onto the bed. His arms instantly reached out to you, beckoning you to lie down with him.

"Not yet." You chuckled, tugging off his shoes.

He groaned in protest, but let you undress him so he wouldn't be uncomfortable.

"Tonight was fun." He murmured into the pillow as you changed into some pajamas.

"It was?" You clicked off the bedside lamp, bathing the room in darkness.

"Yeah. I liked drinking with you." He felt around for your forearm, his fingers curling loosely around it and tugging you towards him.

The moment you landed on his chest, his arms wrapped around your waist. His body was warm from all the alcohol he consumed, the heat seeping through your clothes as he held you in his embrace. A gentle, sleepy noise fell from his lips, followed by steady breathing.

He was out.

You suppressed a chuckle, leaving a delicate kiss on his cheekbone. "Goodnight, Yeosang."

𝐒𝐀𝐍 | 산 | w.c 1,280

Ateez were all seated in the private dining room of a restaurant that had been making its rounds on everyone's social feeds. There was a break in the group's schedule and Jongho managed to get everyone together for a shared dinner.

"I read about this place online." Your boyfriend marveled, staring up at the ceiling in wonder.

"Their sashimi is supposed to be really good. It's all anyone talks about on Instagram." Seonghwa mentioned.

"Ooh. They have marinated crab." Yunho gaped.

"We should get a couple orders of that." San added.

After some menu browsing and discussions, everyone placed their orders, including an impressive amount of alcohol. Some ordering beer, others choosing the classic soju.

"We need to go all out." Jongho had said.

It was easy for him to say. He had one of the highest alcohol tolerances in the group.

Beverages were brought out first, your boyfriend reaching for one of the bottles, pouring you a generous shot.

Once everyone had their glasses filled, Mingi took the initiative to get the ball rolling.

"Cheers." He called out enthusiastically, clinking glasses with everyone.

The group took their shots at once, the now empty glasses hitting the table with a small thump. San's face scrunched a little at the taste and you chuckled in quiet amusement.

"What's so funny?" He asked with a dimpled smirk, draping his arm across the back of your chair.

"Your reaction." You responded simply.

"Do I amuse you or something?" There was a teasing glint in his eyes as they flickered up and down your seated form.

"Very much so." You giggled, giving his nose a little tap.

Seonghwa reached over to fill your glasses again caught your attention.

"Another round already?" You questioned with a small laugh.

"Yeah. We're going all in tonight." Seonghwa grinned.

San wasn't one to initiate the drinking. He more so just went along with everyone else, following when another round of shots were poured up. If one was given to him, he would drink it.

"Alright. Let's go, let's go." Wooyoung chanted, tilting back his glass, prompting everyone else to do the same.

The food was brought out minutes later and there was a brief intermission in the drinking to indulge in the mouthwatering dishes that had been ordered.

Your poor boyfriend was awful at holding his liquor. It didn't take many shots for his face to start sporting that telltale pink flush. You didn't think much of it at first, not realizing just how poor his tolerance was. Everyone had placed their orders and started playing games to pass the time. San was roughly three shots in and you only noticed his tipsy behavior when Seonghwa, who was also pink, pointed it out, laughing at him.

San blinked cluelessly at the teasing until it finally processed in his mind.

"No." He denied, rubbing his cheek. "I'm okay."

"You sure?" You asked, your eyes drifting over his red face.

"Mhm." He nodded.

You didn't want to push, choosing to drop it for the time being and took a bite of food.

San observed the other members almost dazedly, leaned forward slightly, bracing himself in his chair.

"Another round!" Yunho encouraged, pouring shots for everyone.

San silently watched everyone grab their glasses and downed the alcohol with them. He was clearly feeling it, but went along with whatever the group was doing.

"What about a game?" Yeosang suggested.

"Let's play the one where we yell at each other back and forth." Mingi suggested.

"No." Yeosang cut in and immediately shook his head rapidly. "I'm not getting screamed at again. That was scary."

The rest of the group laughed, seemingly recalling a previous drinking session together.

A more tame game was suggested after that and everyone agreed on it. One by one, you would take your turn, keeping up with the steady pace of the game. It didn't take long for Hongjoong to mess up, resulting in a penalty shot.

"You alright?" You asked San after a few rounds of drinking games, taking in his reddened face.

His eyes were puffy and barely open, giving away just how affected he was.

"Yeah." He answered, sounding completely coherent despite his appearance. "Just a little hot."

You laughed softly, endeared by his current state. He looked sleepy, blinking sluggishly.

"If you say so."

"I do." He insisted with a little pout.

As the drinking games proceeded, he kept up the best that he could. It was painfully endearing seeing him this way. When he lost a round and had to take a penalty shot, he took it in stride, but leaned over on your shoulder pouting about it when no one was looking.

When it wasn't his turn, he fell silent. He didn't speak, spaced out and staring at nothing. You pressed your lips together to suppress a laugh, but he noticed.

"What?" He inquired, the clueless expression on his face making you have cuteness aggression.

"You seem a little drunk."

"M'not drunk." He denied, his words punctuated by a small whine.

What started out as a group dinner turned into a karaoke session at a 24 hour karaoke bar. The nine of you were packed inside of a room with colorful lights dancing along the walls and floor.

Jongho was standing before the TV on the wall, singing along to the words displayed on the screen. San must have gotten a sudden burst of energy, his singer instincts kicking in the second he heard music. Though he wasn't the one with the microphone, he was belting out the lyrics with his eyes closed as he swayed in his seat, getting lost in the emotional ballad. Other members had joined in, but your boyfriend was the loudest.

You burst into laughter at the enthusiasm that San was exuding, watching him amusedly. His face was still sporting that deep red flush from all the drinking, making this moment all the more entertaining.

San slung an arm over your shoulders, making you sway with him. You held onto his waist, joyful chuckles spilling out of you.

His singing ceased when the song came to an end and Seonghwa stepped up to grab the mic next.

Music started up again and the whole group straightened at the opening instrumental of a popular upbeat K-pop song.

San jumped to his feet and pulled you with him, shouting out the words with Seonghwa and the others. Singing wasn't one of your talents, but you still had a buzz from the alcohol earlier and joined in, dancing around the room with San.

He tugged you against him, stumbling slightly.

"Woah there." You chuckled.

His head rested against yours, a hum vibrating in his chest. "Love you so much. You're so beautiful." His words were murmured and dragged out like he was sleepy.

"I love you too, San."

"You should stay the night when we go home."

"If your roommates are okay with it, I will." You chuckled.

"They don't care." He moved to nuzzle against your cheek, letting out soft hums that sounded akin to a purring cat.

"You tired?" You asked, brushing your fingers through his dark hair.

"Mhm." He nodded.

"I think San's ready to go home." Hongjoong pointed out, having noticed the way he was clinging to you.

"No!" He raised his head immediately, lips pushed into a pout. "Let's keep singing."

Scattered laughter filled the room at his reaction.

"You sure?" Yeosang asked.

"Yeah. We just got here." His sentences were exaggerated with a whine at the end that made your chest squeeze with adoration.

"Alright. We'll sing a few more songs then we'll head home. Deal?" You asked him.

"Mmh." He nodded. "Deal."

𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐈 | 민기 | w.c 1,310

The first indication that your boyfriend was drunk were his texts, or more so the selfies he sent. Blurry pictures of Mingi smiling brightly at a table filled with food was what greeted you when you opened his messages. His grin alone was proof enough that he'd been drinking.

He used to indulge in alcohol often and had since cut back, but Jongho and Wooyoung invited him out and those two were big drinkers.

Your fingers hovered over the keyboard pensively before you decided not to text. He may not even be able to respond.

"At least he's having fun."

You sighed and leaned back against the couch, staring at the ceiling, twiddling your thumbs.

Your phone buzzed a few minutes later and you jumped to check it. More selfies flooded in from Mingi. Blurry group photos, then a picture of Wooyoung kissing a visibly uncomfortable Jongho on the cheek, followed by a series of images showing the youngest grappling Wooyoung into a chokehold. You snorted amusedly, knowing how affectionate he was sober.

The evening wore on and your boyfriend made sure to spam endless selfies and snapshots, some of them obviously accidental.

As you swiped through the pictures, Mingi's contact photo popped up on the screen and his custom ringtone played aloud. He was FaceTiming you.

Your thumb swiped to accept the call, raising your phone level with your face. You jerked back when Mingi's eye filled the screen, startled by the unexpected sight.

He pulled back, blinking owlishly.

"Y/n!" He shouted over the sound of Wooyoung's loud cackles.

"Mingi, what are you doing?" You asked with a laugh.

"I sent you pictures! Look." He turned the camera to show the table filled with nearly empty plates and many bottles of soju, crumpled napkins and discarded chopsticks littering the space.

You caught a glimpse of Wooyoung and Jongho in the background, both of them attempting tricks with the bottles.

"I got your pictures. It looks like you're having fun."

"I am!" He clumsily faced the camera back to himself, smiling drunkenly.

"Why'd you call?"

"I missed you." He spoke loudly.

Your expression softened. "I miss you too, but I'm glad you're having a good time."

"Hey, you should come join us!"

"Oh. No, I don't want to intrude."

Before you could continue, Wooyoung chimed in.

"Y/n, get down here! Mingi has been whining about you all evening."

Your boyfriend's already pink cheeks deepened. "Heyyy." He frowned.

Wooyoung snickered in response.

"Okay. I guess I'll head that way.." You gave in.

"See you soon." Mingi waved, his phone wobbling in his hand before he ended the call.

You sighed, shaking your head. "That boy."

Half an hour later you stepped into the bar, having shed your comfortable clothes for proper outside attire. Your eyes scanned the small space that had a surprisingly decent crowd clustered on the floor.

"Y/n!"

Your attention was drawn towards the call of your name and a large hand waving excitedly over the clusters of patrons. You recognized the flashy rings instantly, a knowing grin spreading across your lips.

Mingi emerged, staggering towards you with a dopey smile on his face.

"Y/n." He uttered, throwing his arms around you.

"Hey, baby." You greeted, rubbing his back.

He buried his face into your shoulder, releasing a mix between a groan and a sigh.

"Wooyoung and Jongho... they're sooo fun."

"I know they are."

"I'm so happy you're here."

"Me too. Now I can keep an eye on you." It was partially a joke. "You said you weren't gonna drink a lot. How did this even happen?" You asked him.

"We played games and I kept losing." He whined, pulling back with a pout. "They made me take penalty shots."

"Oh you poor thing." You cooed, running your fingers through his lengthy hair, tidying the unruly strands.

If there was one thing you knew about Mingi, it's that he liked to be babied. Contrary to his height and sometimes intimidating appearance, he enjoyed when you doted on him. He melted into your touch, sighing out a slurred, "I love you."

"I love you too." You laughed, giving him a little pat on the cheek. "Let's go sit."

He took your hand, guiding you through the crowd, back to his table where Wooyoung and Jongho erupted in excited exclamations at your arrival.

"Heeeey!" Wooyoung greeted.

You joined the two of them and Mingi dropped back into his chair, sitting beside you.

"We just ordered more food. You hungry?" Jongho offered.

"Oh yes." You grabbed a pair of chopsticks and took a bite.

"Alright. How about another round of shots?" Wooyoung beamed, already opening a bottle of soju.

"No." Mingi shook his head. "I can't. No more."

"I'll have one. Only one. I'll probably be driving this guy home later." You gave your boyfriend a pat on the back.

"Alright." Wooyoung pushed a glass towards you. "One shot."

You took the glass and turned it back just as Wooyoung and Jongho did.

"Ahh." Jongho sighed dramatically.

You grabbed your chopsticks again and went back for more food after downing your shot.

"This is insanely good." You praised.

"It pairs so well with the drinks, doesn't it?" Wooyoung chimed in, grabbing himself a bite.

You glanced over at Mingi, checking on his current state. His eyes were glossy and he looked like the pouting emoji personified.

"Mingi?"

"I think I'm ready to leave." He frowned. "It's stuffy in here."

"But she just got here." Wooyoung whined.

"No, no. It's fine." You placed your chopsticks down. "I can take him home."

"Yeah, he's kinda out of it." Jongho reasoned.

"Alright." Wooyoung sighed.

You said your goodbyes and took Mingi to your car, watching him fumble with the seatbelt.

"Here." You reached over to click the buckle into place.

"You're so nice to me." He murmured, his words slurred.

"Because I care for you, bub."

He let out an incoherent murmur as you started the engine and headed towards home.

Somehow, you managed to lead Mingi inside and get him to your shared bedroom without him collapsing. He stepped past the doorway and held your waist to steady himself.

"You good?"

"Mhm." He flashed a dopey grin, cheeks flushed from the alcohol.

There was no time to react as he leaned in to capture your lips in a clumsy, uncoordinated kiss.

Your hands flew to his cheeks, pulling back just enough to talk.

"You really missed me, huh?"

"Yeah." He breathed, diving in again.

"Mmph!" You giggled against his lips. "You were only gone for a couple hours."

"I still missed you." He whined softly, kissing you once more, awkwardly guiding you towards the bed.

The back of your knees hit the edge of the mattress and Mingi went tumbling forward on top of you with a small grunt.

"Oops." He laughed, pressing his face into the crook of your neck, leaving a trail of sloppy kisses along your skin.

You squirmed, the sensations both pleasant and ticklish all at once. He raised his head, shimmying to reach your lips only to bump his forehead against yours by accident.

"Ah." You flinched.

"Ow." He whined. "Maybe I need to take it slow."

"Good idea." You caressed his hair, pushing it back away from his face. "How about I get you some water?"

He gave a sleepy nod and you managed to slide out from underneath him, slipping off to the kitchen.

By the time you returned, Mingi was asleep. His shoes had been kicked off, but he was still fully clothed, splayed across the bed.

A sigh of endearment exhaled through your nostrils as you placed a bottle of water on the nightstand, gazing down at your boyfriend's sleeping form.

"Goodnight, sweet boy." You whispered, placing a delicate kiss to the top of his head, leaving him to rest.

𝐖𝐎𝐎𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐆 | 우영 | w.c 1,070

Taking care of your drunk boyfriend was not on your agenda tonight, but Wooyoung liked to let loose and have a good time.

It started off just fine. You, Wooyoung, San, and Seonghwa all went out for a fun little karaoke night, renting a private room for the evening. There were snacks, sweets, and alcohol of course.

Wooyoung dragged you up from the bench along the back wall of the room and to the TV, choosing a fun duet to sing. It was a popular song from a film that was sweeping the charts, one that you could shout at the top of your lungs to.

You both belted out the lyrics without a care in the world, paying no mind to how you sounded, jumping around and getting lost in the music. Wooyoung took your hand with his free one, spinning you around while singing passionately. The lyrics were interrupted only by laughter from the both of you.

Your little performance earned you a standing ovation and a round of applause from San and Seonghwa. The both of you did a bow and returned to your spot on the bench lining the wall at the back of the room.

San got up and grabbed one of the microphones, choosing a song to sing, striding around the room trying to get everyone hyped up. You clapped to the beat, cheers and shouts of encouragement filled the room. San began singing roughly, straining to put his heart and soul into his performance.

Wooyoung took one of the soju bottles and started pouring shots for everyone while his bandmate carried on with his enthusiastic rendition. You clinked your glasses, swallowing down the liquid inside that left a subtle burning in your chest. Your boyfriend grabbed the last full shot glass, trying to get San to drink it despite being in the middle of an enthralling vocal performance. His singing ceased long enough for Wooyoung to press the glass to his lips. San laughed, but his face was twisted in distaste at the unpleasant bitterness of the soju.

There was a brief intermission between songs so everyone could enjoy some of the food and refuel. Spicy chicken stir fry, veggie dumplings, and Korean corn dogs. These karaoke places specialized in bar food or anything greasy to help you get less drunk. Plus, it paired well with the alcohol.

A string of mozzarella stretched from the corn dog in Wooyoung's hand right to his plush lips. He ate his way along the gooey trail of cheese, humming pleasantly.

"So good." He spoke through a mouthful of food.

"Soooo good." You agreed, pinching a fried dumpling between your chopsticks.

As the night progressed, the empty bottles piled up, so did the empty plates. Things took a turn when the four of you finished off the third bottle of soju. Wooyoung was eager with the shots, even insisting on playing some drinking games.

"You're wanting to play with the two weakest drinkers in your group?" You questioned with an amused grin.

"Yes." He answered without missing a beat.

So, you played a few rounds of games and continued on with karaoke.

The first indication that Wooyoung was getting drunk was the fact that he couldn't keep his hands off you. His warm palms found their way to your waist or even your thigh, squeezing and caressing subtly wherever they landed. He kept stealing kisses too, leaning over to randomly smack his lips against your cheek and jaw. Wooyoung was affectionate anyway, but with all the alcohol he consumed, it became much worse.

While a pink-faced San was eating, you were having a conversation with Seonghwa, talking to him about a clothing store you visited recently when Wooyoung randomly grabbed your face and kissed your cheek firmly, pulling away with a loud smooch sound.

"Wooyoung!" Your cheeks flooded with heat, but San and Seonghwa only laughed, desensitized to this kind of behavior.

"They're not bothered with seeing a little public display of affection. Besides, they're both tipsy." Wooyoung waved it off dismissively.

"Yeah, so are you." You countered, lightly poking his cheek.

He snapped his teeth teasingly at your finger and you yanked it away, you shot him a warning look, not being serious. He responded with a mischievously smug smirk.

At that point, Seonghwa and San had gone back to eating, your previous conversation about shopping had fallen to the wayside.

"Behave." You nudged him.

"No promises." He sang with a playful lilt.

He did not behave.

For a while, he kept an arm draped over your shoulder and had you pulled against his side. He wouldn't allow you to even stand up when it was your turn to sing.

You didn't know how long you spent inside the karaoke room, but when San looked like he was about to fall asleep, Seonghwa suggested calling it a night.

Wooyoung lumbered in through the front door with a drunken grin plastered on his face. You sighed and closed the door, flicking the lock. The moment you did so, Wooyoung's hands found your waist, pulling you back against him. The tip of his nose traced your neck and you suppressed a shiver.

"Mmm. Tonight was fun." He hummed. "You looked so good dancing without a care in the world."

Your muscles tensed when he placed a warm, open-mouthed kiss to your neck.

"Wooyoung."

"What?" He grumbled against your skin, his deft hands sliding under the hem of your shirt to brush against your waist. "You're so warm."

"You're a little drunk right now." You reminded him despite how nice his touch felt.

"So what? I just wanna kiss my girlfriend. Is that so wrong?"

"You can barely stand upright."

"Then let's go lie down."

You managed to get to the bedroom, prying Wooyoung off long enough to change into pajamas. He didn't bother with any, merely stripping down to his boxers.

He hooked an arm around your waist and pulled you towards the bed and on top of him, his hands sliding along your sides. His nose nuzzled against your cheek before he turned his head to kiss your lips. His aim was off and he ended up kissing the corner of your mouth instead.

You laughed softly. "You should probably sleep."

"Lemme kiss you for a little while longer." He murmured, his droopy eyes gazing into yours. "Please?"

"Okay." You caved. "Just a little longer."

𝐉𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐇𝐎 | 종호 | w.c 1,130

It was a cozy Saturday evening with Jongho. Laid before you was the classic Korean combination of fried chicken and beer, along with a few bottles of soju for variety.

"This is where it's at." Jongho rubbed his hands together, taking in the spread.

The fried batter on the chicken looked so mouthwatering you could practically feel the crunch already, and the glaze on the sauced chicken glistened under the warm lamplight, making you swallow instinctively.

Your boyfriend passed a pair of disposable gloves to you for eating (complementary with the meal) and presented you with your drink of choice.

"Ladies first." Jongho gestured.

You didn't need to be told twice, reaching out to grab a chicken leg covered in sauce.

The first bite had you slumping against the back of the couch dramatically, earning a string of heart-fluttering giggles from Jongho. He slipped on a pair of gloves and grabbed a classic fried drumstick, taking a large bite. His brows scrunched together as he chewed, humming in approval.

No words were exchanged, just the soft crunch of the fry batter as the two of you ate in silence.

Jongho reached over and opened up a bottle of beer, taking a swig of it, his eyes closing at how the flavors mixed.

"An unbeatable combo." He said, shaking his head. "So good."

He finished eating and pulled off his gloves, grabbing the soju next, twisting the cap and pouring a couple shots for the both of you.

A grin played at your lips seeing Jongho slide one over. "Alright. Getting the party started pretty quickly, huh?"

"You know it."

You gave a little shrug and took the small glass, lightly clinking it with Jongho's before tilting it back. You pressed your lips together at the taste, setting the glass back on the table.

"Don't expect me to keep up with you tonight." You told him.

"I don't. Tap out whenever you want." He said, pouring himself a second shot.

You pushed your glass towards his, indicating you weren't backing down yet.

Jongho tended to be a little heavy-handed with alcohol, pouring shots that nearly filled the glass.

"Jeez." You laughed, raising your glass to examine it. "Are you trying to get me plastered?"

"Not on purpose." He giggled.

You huffed amusedly, drinking the full shot.

Jongho had just finished his, pulling away with an exaggerated exhale.

"I like drinking on occasion." He said, swirling his beer inside its bottle. "Especially if I'm going out to eat. I can't have a delicious steak without a good glass of wine. Or chicken without beer."

"Of course." You nodded, knowing how Jongho enjoyed a good food and drink pairing.

"Mingi says you're the only reason he drinks anymore." You mentioned.

"Did he?"

"Yeah. He stopped, but when he goes into eat with you, he ends up drinking."

"Hah!" Jongho threw his head back, letting out a loud laugh. "He's weak-willed."

You scolded him, by delivering a light smack to his shoulder. "Hey. Be nice."

"It's the truth."

You huffed, shaking your head.

The conversation progressed from there and Jongho started telling you funny stories about the members and things that have happened when the cameras were off. During this, he poured more shots and you two enjoyed some more chicken, nearly finishing off both boxes. His story-telling abilities already made you laugh, especially with the way he mimicked people, but with the alcohol, things were even funnier to you. Your loud cackles filled the living room, tears brimming at the edges of your eyes while you clutched your stomach.

Jongho was leaned over, his eyes scrunched into tiny crescents as his adorable laughter reached your ears. The sight alone was enough to make your heart melt. From the crinkles by his eyes to his endearing gummy grin.

"He did not say that." You spoke through belly laughter.

"He did! I swear."

Time slipped by and the table was littered with empty bottles, boxes from the chicken, and wadded disposable gloves and napkins. Jongho drank two beers and both of you emptied four sojus. Jongho stretched, blinking blearily. His neck and ears had been pink for quite some time, but now the color started creeping to his soft cheeks. You watched him leave the room and return with a fresh bottle of beer.

Even in your slightly hazy state, a small tinge of worry flared in your chest.

"Not to be a buzzkill, but don't you think you should slow it down?"

"Slow it down?" Jongho echoed perking up at your words, almost immediately going into his group's choreography for their song Bouncy, singing the lyrics under his breath.

"Jongho." You laughed. "I don't want you getting hungover tomorrow."

He huffed, slumping in his seat. "I just want one more."

"I'm not gonna stop you from doing what you want, but you've had a lot."

"Oh, come on." He wiggled his shoulders, laying the cuteness on extra thick. "One more bottle of beer."

You tried to resist, but it was impossible. Jongho was just too cute, especially when he acted this way. Plus, the alcohol had given you a little buzz that was clouding your judgement.

"Alright. One more, but I don't want you getting sick."

"I won't." He waved you off. "I'm a champ when it comes to drinking. My tolerance is soooo good."

His pink cheeks and slurred words said otherwise. Jongho had reached his limit of tolerance.

"Right, right." You nodded, giving him a pat on the back.

"Why do you sound like you don't believe me?"

"Because I don't." You giggled.

"Hey!" He leaned over and grabbed your sides, making you yelp.

Your laughter spilled out when he laid partially on top of you, trapping you against the couch cushions.

"You don't trust me?" He asked, raising a brow.

"Nooo." You teased, a big smile plastered on your face.

"Oh yeah?" Jongho grinned, his face inching closer. "If I'm so drunk, then why am I aware of the fact that I have you trapped right now?"

You could feel heat creep onto your cheeks at his words, not missing the glint in his eye. You were at a loss, not having a comeback.

"Speechless?" He asked, his half-lidded eyes drifting to your lips.

By the time it registered in your sluggish mind, his mouth was on yours, warm and soft. Your arms draped around his shoulders in acceptance, eyes falling shut as you kissed him back. It was a little messy and uncoordinated, but it made your stomach do flips.

Jongho hummed, dragging his lips slowly over yours, letting you feel the shape of them.

"What about your beer?" You asked when he pulled back a fraction.

"I don't want it anymore. I want you."

★ ────────────────── ★

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The villainess had a rough upbringing, raised in a strict household where showing emotion was seen as weakness, so she bottled it all up. She was quiet, keeping to herself in the story, but you could see the way she lingered when the Emperor Hongjoong was nearby, how she looked at him. When Miyoung returned to town, she noticed the way the high lady watched Hongjoong with quiet longing and used her sweet charm to manipulate everyone around her, turning them against the woman. These lies resulted in her death, killed by the hands of the emperor, as she was deemed unstable and crazy. The comic ended with Emperor Hongjoong marrying Miyoung.

You were on the high lady's side. She wasn't the villain of the story, she was misunderstood. If it were you in her place, you would've done things differently. Unlike her, you would've fought back against the accusations, but at the end of the day it was just a story, one you continued to come back to despite its dissatisfactory ending. You couldn't rewrite it either, only reimagine your own version of it.

It was Friday, the end of a long week had finally come to a close and you could rest. Days like today you wished you had a car. Walking home only added to your exhaustion, but you couldn't afford to be throwing away money by taking the bus. You came to a stop at a crosswalk, letting out a heavy sigh waiting for the light to turn. Once the icon changed, you made your way across. You couldn't wait to get home.

After that, everything was a blur. The screech of tires could be heard, followed by a force that rammed into your side, leaving a dull ache behind. Glass shattered and something warm trickled down your face. It all happened so fast there was no way you could've reacted.

The muffled sounds of clamoring pedestrians reached your ears as the corners of your vision became hazy. The world felt disconnected and was growing more distant by the second as the darkness crept in, overtaking you completely.

You awoke with a start, inhaling sharply as you shot upright in bed. You frantically looked at your surroundings. The bed wasn't yours. Its silken sheets and luxurious bed frame didn't belong to you. The thick drapes over the windows and marble floors were a far cry from your ramshackle apartment.

You froze. You recognized this room. These were the chambers of the high lady in the manhwa you loved so much. Scrambling off the bed, you stumbled to the vanity, gripping the edges of it when you met your reflection. You weren't yourself. With trembling fingers, you reached up to touch your face, watching the woman in the mirror follow.

"No way." You exhaled.

Your voice was your own, but everything else was different. Your hair, your eyes, your clothes.

"How is this possible?" You uttered in disbelief.

A knock on the bedroom door startled you, causing you to flinch.

"My lady?"

A flash of panic shot through you and for a split second you considered hiding. Then you were struck with a realization. This was your chance. You could rewrite the story, change the ending.

"My lady?" Came the muffled call from the other side of the door.

You straightened your posture and twisted the handle, pulling the door ajar to peer through the crack. The high lady's assistant, well, your assistant, Seonghwa, stood outside.

"Yes?"

"Is everything alright? You took a while to answer."

"Of course." You shrugged it off with a huff.

"Right." He smoothed out his crisp uniform. "Today is the luncheon at the Emperor's palace."

The luncheon. Today marked one week until the innocent-faced Miyoung would arrive and start smearing the lady's name. You had a week to change things.

"Thank you." You told Seonghwa.

He gave a small bow and walked away.

You pushed the door shut with a soft click, resting your head against it.

"One week." You murmured under your breath.

Later that afternoon, you arrived at the emperor's castle, receiving a few sidelong glances from the guards as you entered the gates. Your black robes, covered in intricate silver embroidery, swayed at your feet with every step.

The garden was bustling with groups of other royals and wealthy individuals conversing amongst themselves.

There were eyes on you when you passed by, their stares off putting, but you didn't let it deter you. One of the butlers passed by and offered a tray of drinks to you, the flutes filled with sparking champagne. You thanked him and plucked one from the silver tray, taking a slow sip to steady yourself, scoping the place from over the rim of the glass. You caught sight of Emperor Hongjoong making his way around to greet everyone. When he got closer, you straightened your posture, ignoring your racing heart.

His eyes met yours and a flicker of surprise passed over his features. "Lady Y/n."

You gave a small cordial bow of your head. "Emperor Hongjoong."

He moved on to more attendees, leaving you to ponder your next move.

In the story, the lady didn't go out of her way to interact with Hongjoong. She buried herself in her duties and settled for admiring him from afar at events like this one—but you weren't her.

Once the luncheon kicked off, you began weaving your way through the crowd towards the table lined with food from meats to salad. Everything looked delicious. You prepared yourself a plate and went to take a seat at one of the small circular dining tables scattered about the garden.

No one came to join you.

This wasn't surprising since the wealthy woman you were now parading around as was distant and closed off. You ate in silence. When your plate was empty, one of the many staff around the garden came by to collect it. You thanked them and searched for Hongjoong.

His blue and gold robes stood out from the other wealthy individuals here. He stood by one of the cherry blossom trees by a small stream, observing the crowd. You slowly stood from your seat and made your way over to him.

"Beautiful day." You began.

Hongjoong turned his gaze to you, his response delayed. "It is."

His brown eyes swept the area before pulling back to you. "You're not often seen mingling at these things."

"I know." You let a faint chuckle slip out. "Must be jarring."

"Jarring might be too crass of a word." He murmured. "Unusual is more suitable."

"Unusual, yes." You nodded.

A gentle breeze blew by, rustling the robes that draped from yours and Hongjoong's bodies.

You were unsure of what to say. Being too open too soon would raise suspicion, or more than it already has. Even the emperor, despite inviting you go sit, was quiet.

"Did you have something to discuss with me?"

His question came out of nowhere.

"No. Why?"

"You always attend these events, but you never approach me." He stated.

"Just being polite." You responded coolly, pretending to smooth out a wrinkle in your robes.

Hongjoong studied you, but didn't say a word.

"Your highness." Someone called, shattering the silence between you.

Hongjoong's assistant, Yunho, came striding over, his eyes darting warily to you. He cleared his throat and leaned closer to Hongjoong.

"The grand duke would like a word."

"Grand Duke San?" The emperor inquired. "I'll be right there."

He paused to turn to you. "Lady Y/n." He dismissed, promptly following Yunho through the crowd.

You sighed, shoulders slumping. Maybe it was for the best that you didn't make a lot of progress. You still had six more days.

Lucky for you, the Emperor had a plethora of events until the arrival of Miyoung. And you would be at every single one, just like the high lady in the manhwa, except this time, you would make it a point to put yourself out there.

There was a dinner two days after the luncheon. It was in the dining hall of Hongjoong's palace. Another chance to mingle and talk business with the richest of the rich.

You sat at the long polished dining table that stretched across the vast room. The scent of roasted meats and savory soups filled the air. Those sitting on either side of you eyed you warily, so you offered them polite nods, dissolving some of the tenseness.

"Everyone." Hongjoong stood at the head of the table, calling for the guests' attention. "I would like to thank my head chef, Wooyoung for preparing this meal tonight."

Said man was beside Hongjoong in his cooking attire, the top half of his dark hair tied into a ponytail. He gave a deep bow of appreciation before leaving.

"Tonight I want you all to enjoy yourselves and have fun." Hongjoong said with a dazzling smile before sitting back down.

"Lady Y/n." The nobleman beside you spoke.

His name was Mingi, another duke, one from the Southern region. He was intense with a reputation for being blunt. "You don't usually attend these gatherings."

His comment was dismissed with a hum from you, showing that you acknowledged his words but had nothing to say.

He let out a little huff and began cutting into his honey-glazed duck. "These events are mostly for conversation and you hardly ever converse."

"I'm aware."

In the manhwa, the lady attended more formal events and used it to discuss business matters with other nobles. She buried herself in work and disregarded social events such as this one, which is why you were now in attendance. Social gatherings like this one were perfect for getting closer with certain emperors.

Duke Mingi ceased with his prying questions and settled on enjoying his meal in silence, which you were grateful for.

It seemed that the nobleman and women paid closer attention to you than you assumed, especially if a single instance at a garden luncheon raised suspicion.

Occasionally, Emperor Hongjoong's eyes would flicker in your direction, stealing brief glances when he thought you weren't paying attention. Why he kept starting? You hadn't the slightest clue. Perhaps he too was wondering why you were there.

Everyone's plates emptied, guests rose from their seats and gathered in corners of the grand dining room, more eager to socialize than to be seated at a table. The clatter of dishes being cleared by butlers accompanied the murmur of chatter from the guests.

Hongjoong was still seated, speaking with Grand Duke San to the left of him. His assistant, Yunho, stood behind the emperor, scanning the room. Duke Mingi had since abandoned his seat in favor of chatting with some snobby stockholder.

Hongjoong watched as you stood from your seat, moving awkwardly through the cluster of people, observing you silently while sipping his wine. You didn't approach anyone or join the groups conversing, just drifting.

You were planning, rehearsing. You wanted to play it cool, but the days were dwindling and you needed to make a move. During your silent scheming, you dared to steal a glance at Emperor Hongjoong, pausing when you met his gaze. He was already looking at you. A small nod in greeting was given to him in hopes to seem casual.

Hongjoong lifted two fingers and gestured for you to come over. Despite the initial shock, you made your way to him, the path feeling longer than it should as conversations died down a decibel and you began to feel like attention had shifted to you.

"Lady Y/n." Came his greeting.

"Emperor Hongjoong." You bowed.

His eyes darted to the empty chair at his right, accompanied by a jerk of his head, a silent invitation to join. This surprised you and without a word, you sat.

Duke San cleared his throat, seemingly bothered by your presence, and proceeded with his conversation while Yunho watched silently. You didn't exactly feel welcome at the table, but the emperor himself had offered you a seat, so you had to oblige.

While San discussed something about one of his trade deals, Hongjoong poured a glass of wine and without a word, slid it towards you. You blinked a couple times, processing the gesture. A few nearby murmurs caught your attention. Other nobles and wealthy individuals witnessed the significant act. The emperor personally poured you a drink. The Duke noticed this, his eyes narrowing slightly.

"You're interrupting important discussions." He addressed you suddenly.

"I'm sorry?"

Before San could repeat himself or say something worse, Hongjoong shot him a hard glare.

"She's not distracting me."

Your trembling fingers reached out to take the glass, drinking nearly half of it to calm your rising anger. You were experiencing firsthand the ridicule Lady Y/n faced.

San's jaw ticked in irritation and he went to speak again when Hongjoong raised his hand to silence the duke with one single gesture.

"I've invited Lady Y/n to join us and you will show respect." Hongjoong spoke, his words carrying authority.

San's agitation was clear, but he didn't argue.

"Lady Y/n." The emperor turned to address you. "Are you enjoying the dinner party?"

"It's very nice." You nodded. "The food was impeccable. You'll have to let your chef know."

He gave a soft smile at your words. "I'll let him know."

The rest of the night was a little less tense after Hongjoong broke the ice a bit. San ended up leaving the table at some point, put off by your friendlier behavior. You offered to leave as well so others could converse with Hongjoong, but to your surprise, he declined.

You paced around your chambers restlessly. Tomorrow was the dreaded day and you weren't sure how much progress you'd made with Emperor Hongjoong. Was it enough to protect your image before everyone could turn against you?

"My lady?"

You jumped at the voice, spinning around to find Seonghwa standing in your doorway.

"Apologies. I didn't mean to startle you."

"It's fine." You shook your head.

"Are you feeling alright? You've been different recently." He observed, his brows knitting together in concern.

"I'm perfectly fine." You straightened your posture, attempting to feign nonchalance.

"Very well." He dismissed, starting back to the door. "If you need anything, let me know."

"Thank you, Seonghwa."

A gala was held the day Miyoung arrived. You showed up in the nicest gown you could find in your wardrobe, smoothing out the flowy skirts as you entered.

The ballroom in the palace was huge and filled with the wealthiest individuals, people whispered as you passed. They'd picked up on the subtle shift in your behavior in recent days. You simply ignored them, holding your head high and striding through the crowds.

Since the dinner at Hongjoong's palace, you've felt more comfortable approaching him at gatherings and hope it granted you some grace with him in terms of your impending death.

A butler walked by and you swiftly took a flute of champagne from the silver tray. You took a long sip, steeling your nerves as you began to approach the emperor. Emerging from a cluster of partygoers, you spotted the man you were looking for and he was hugging someone. Your body stiffened when you caught sight of the silken black hair twisted into a tight bun and the pink fabrics on her body. Miyoung. You knew you'd see her there, but it was still rattling to lay eyes on her, even if it was just her backside.

Clearing your throat, you approached Hongjoong.

"I hope I'm not disturbing." You put on your most even tone to appear more casual.

"Oh, Lady Y/n, of course not." Hongjoong pulled away.

"Good. I won't take up your time. I just wanted to come over and greet you properly."

You caught Miyoung looking your way, her eyes slightly narrowed in distain as you spoke to the emperor.

"Well, it's good to see you." Hongjoong was smooth with his response, raising his glass in greeting.

You mirrored his actions. "Oh, and welcome back, Miyoung." You gave a tight smile towards her.

Her entire face changed, that annoyance disappearing in the blink of an eye, masked by a bright smile that could fool everyone—a smile that did fool everyone.

You took your leave swiftly and retreated to a table against the wall lined with finger foods. A couple individuals stood there conversing, Prince Yeosang from a kingdom across the river and his personal knight, Sir Jongho. The two of them noticed your presence immediately, watching you. They shared a glance, unsure whether to speak or not. You lifted your gaze from the spread of food and gave the two of them a faint, but not too obvious, smile.

"Good evening." You bowed your head in greeting.

They both blinked in surprise.

"Yes. Good evening." Yeosang managed to speak. Jongho merely nodded in silent acknowledgement.

You made your rounds through the massive ballroom, circling like a shark and plotting your next move. You caught sight of Miyoung, not clinging to Hongjoong's side like a leech for once, overhearing a conversation she was having with Duke Mingi.

"What's wrong with Lady Y/n?" She inquired, feigning concern.

"I don't know." Mingi responded. "She's been odd lately."

"You don't think she's losing it, do you?"

"Why?"

"This sudden change in personality is strange. It could be something mental."

There was a pause in Mingi's response. "I don't know."

"Well, from what I remember, she's always been so closed off, even before I went overseas. Poor thing. She hardly speaks and only shows up to formal events for business." The way the manipulative words spilled from her like a flowing river was jarring. Her sweet tone could fool anyone into thinking she was just concerned.

"Actually, she's been more social lately." Mingi mentioned. "She even showed up to a social gathering."

"A social gathering?" Miyoung echoed.

"Just the other day."

Your heart raced in your chest. It seemed like your attempts to put yourself out there were working. Instead of blindly believing what Miyoung was saying, Mingi was deciding things for himself based on what he experienced.

Your heart nearly stopped when you heard Duke San's voice join the conversation.

"Are you talking about Lady Y/n?"

"Yes. I'm so concerned about her." Miyoung said, her sickly sweet tone making you feel nauseous.

"You know, the emperor invited her to sit with us the other night at his dinner party?"

"He did." Mingi agreed.

"He what?" Miyoung asked.

"Yeah. And when I tried to say something, he silenced me."

You glanced over your shoulder, looking between the cluster of bodies to see the three chatting.

"Do you think she wants something?" Miyoung asked, placing a hand on her chest in mock concern.

"Her behavior has caught Emperor Hongjoong's attention, that's for sure." San said. "So it's possible."

You chewed on your bottom lip, your heart pounding so loudly you could hardly hear the murmur of conversation around you. Knowing how the story ended, you couldn't stand by and let Miyoung smear your name and manipulate everyone with her faux kindness.

Without realizing, you were headed towards the group, squeezing your way through the crowd.

"Excuse me." You put on a thin smile. "I couldn't help but overhear this discussion you're all having and I must say I don't appreciate you spreading lies and making assumptions about me and questioning my character." You shot Miyoung a glare. "Or my mental state."

Mingi had frozen up and even San was surprised at the way you took up for yourself.

"It's not very ladylike to gossip." You stated.

Miyoung, for once, didn't mask the agitation on her face.

With that, you left with your parting words. "Enjoy the party."

The crowd nearby dispersed as you walked past, some of them having overheard the confrontation. The anger you felt was indescribable, but the satisfaction of sticking up for yourself felt so refreshing.

Hongjoong saw the top of your head storming swiftly through the crowd, his conversation with Yunho coming to a halt.

"Where is Lady Y/n going?"

Yunho turned, catching sight of you just as you slipped out of the ballroom. "I'm not sure."

Hongjoong set his glass down and immediately went after you. Yunho made no effort to stop him.

Air. You needed fresh air, just for a moment. You found a set of glass doors and pushed them open, stepping outside on a stone patio. The heat emanating from your face due to the confrontation was soothed by the nighttime breeze.

Seconds later, the click of the doors sounded from behind you. Then you saw the signature deep blue robes of Emperor Hongjoong in your peripheral.

"Are you okay?" He asked.

You stared out at the moonlit garden, taking in the way the blueish hue tinted everything from the rose bushes to the cherry blossom trees.

"I'm not who everyone thinks I am." You said, not looking at Hongjoong.

The double meaning to your words was lost on the emperor, but it felt good to say them regardless.

"Why do you say that?" He took a step closer.

"Because I hear the whispers." A pause. "I know what people think of me."

"And what do they think of you?"

"That I'm cold and unfeeling. That I'm too closed off. Even Miyoung is in there trying to smear my name, questioning my mental state and putting outrageous ideas in people's heads. She fooling everyone with that innocent smile."

"Not me."

Your head snapped to Hongjoong, your eyes wide. He was standing just a foot away now.

"People fear what they don't understand."

Your chest ached at his words and you felt like crying as memories resurfaced—her memories. Your eyes began to well with tears, a deep sadness aching in your chest. You had the lady's memories. Her pain. And it all felt so real.

You turned away, feeling same, not yours but hers.

Hongjoong took half a step forward, his fingers twitching to reach out.

"I'm sorry. I must look pathetic right now." You uttered faintly.

The emperor then did something no one would expect. He pulled you into his arms.

Your breath caught in your throat. No one had held you like this. In the real world, yes, but Lady Y/n never got this and it hurt you. It hurt the real you too because this was something you needed. Working ungodly hours for measly pay at the office, doing everything you could to get by, resorting to fixing things yourself. You were alone in the real world, always too tired and too broke to go out. In this moment, the emotions you were feeling weren't just yours, but Lady Y/n's too. In that moment, you didn't have to be strong.

Your hands were trembling like leaves as they rested against Hongjoong's back, your head turning into his shoulder.

"My upbringing was unpleasant." You spoke, voice muffled against his robes. "My parents were strict. Showing emotion was seen as weakness, so I had to conceal my feelings. I barely socialized and due to that, I developed severe insecurity. I found it hard to approach people and thought it was easier to keep to myself."

"Thank you for sharing that with me." Hongjoong said. "But you've no need to hide anymore."

You held him tighter, fingers curling into the fabric of his clothes.

"I will not allow myself to be swayed. Not after seeing a change in you with my own eyes."

Hongjoong pulled away, bringing his hand up to gently brush away a tear.

"It's alright." He soothed, his eyes roaming your face for a moment. "I like the real you."

Your breath caught in your throat when his lips pressed to your cheek. He didn't pull away, leaving barely any space between your faces as he met your wide-eyed stare. There was a single pause before he closed the gap and kissed your lips.

It was soft and hesitant, like Hongjoong was giving you time to pull away. So when you responded by kissing him back, he doubled down. Feeling his lips on yours was a breath of fresh air and a testament to the efforts you put into changing Lady Y/n's fate—your fate. Your hands cupped his cheeks and you deepened the kiss. He exhaled through his nose and responded with a slow drag of his lips, pouring every emotion into it.

The kiss only ended when you both needed a breath, parting ways to take in some air.

"Would you like to go back inside?" Hongjoong asked.

"What about Miyoung?"

"I'll keep an eye on her. You just stick with me."

"Okay. I'll give it another go."

"Good." He took your hand and led you to the glass doors. "I'd like to see you again after tonight."

"You would?"

"Yes." He smiled. "Only if you're okay with it."

"I am." You nodded, returning the grin.

"Then it's settled. Let's head back."

You returned home later that night feeling so much lighter. Hongjoong stayed true to his word and kept an eye on Miyoung. He even defended you when she started saying odd things about you. You had done it. You changed Lady Y/n's fate.

"I take it you had a good evening?" Seonghwa greeted you with a grin the second you walked in.

This time you smiled brightly. Your own smile.

"Yes. I did. Things are looking up, Hwa."

"That's wonderful."

You went to your room and changed into your pajamas, undoing your hair and removing all the makeup from the gala. There was a soft knock on your door and Seonghwa poked his head inside.

"May I have a moment to speak with you?"

"Of course."

He entered the room and took a seat in a nearby chair. "I have something to confess."

"Yes?"

"I know you aren't Lady Y/n."

Your heart sank. "What?"

"It's alright." His voice was calm as ever. "I'm the one who made this all happen."

"What?" Your brain was a mess trying to process it all. Seonghwa knew this entire time?

"I know my lady isn't a cold woman." He explained. "So I brought you here in hopes that you would change things. No matter what I said, she wouldn't open up. She just allowed everyone to speak ill of her. I needed you to change the future— and now you have. So I'm giving you a choice. Would you like to go back?"

Go back. Those two words made your chest feel heavily. Go back to your old life, back to the apartment in shambles, to the job that worked you to the bone?

"No." You responded decidedly.

"You wish to stay?"

"I don't know what waits for me if I go back." You played with the fabric of your nightclothes. "Besides, my life was a nightmare anyway. This story—sorry, this universe, was my only escape from it all."

Seonghwa's gaze softened. "Very well."

You knew you'd be alright, especially with Seonghwa knowing your secret.

Due to your actions in changing Lady Y/n's fate, the people in the kingdom started to see the real you. Miyoung was kept at a distance and eventually went back overseas after she finally had enough and lashed out, making a scene in front of everyone. She had to be escorted out of an event after Hongjoong proposed to you. It quite funny.

Presently, you were having breakfast with your new fiancé, laughing over warm buttered croissants, eggs, and fresh juice, his hand clasping yours.

This, you supposed, was what happily ever after truly felt like.

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The villainess had a rough upbringing, raised in a strict household where showing emotion was seen as weakness, so she bottled it all up. She was quiet, keeping to herself in the story, but you could see the way she lingered when the Emperor Hongjoong was nearby, how she looked at him. When Miyoung returned to town, she noticed the way the high lady watched Hongjoong with quiet longing and used her sweet charm to manipulate everyone around her, turning them against the woman. These lies resulted in her death, killed by the hands of the emperor, as she was deemed unstable and crazy. The comic ended with Emperor Hongjoong marrying Miyoung.

You were on the high lady's side. She wasn't the villain of the story, she was misunderstood. If it were you in her place, you would've done things differently. Unlike her, you would've fought back against the accusations, but at the end of the day it was just a story, one you continued to come back to despite its dissatisfactory ending. You couldn't rewrite it either, only reimagine your own version of it.

It was Friday, the end of a long week had finally come to a close and you could rest. Days like today you wished you had a car. Walking home only added to your exhaustion, but you couldn't afford to be throwing away money by taking the bus. You came to a stop at a crosswalk, letting out a heavy sigh waiting for the light to turn. Once the icon changed, you made your way across. You couldn't wait to get home.

After that, everything was a blur. The screech of tires could be heard, followed by a force that rammed into your side, leaving a dull ache behind. Glass shattered and something warm trickled down your face. It all happened so fast there was no way you could've reacted.

The muffled sounds of clamoring pedestrians reached your ears as the corners of your vision became hazy. The world felt disconnected and was growing more distant by the second as the darkness crept in, overtaking you completely.

You awoke with a start, inhaling sharply as you shot upright in bed. You frantically looked at your surroundings. The bed wasn't yours. Its silken sheets and luxurious bed frame didn't belong to you. The thick drapes over the windows and marble floors were a far cry from your ramshackle apartment.

You froze. You recognized this room. These were the chambers of the high lady in the manhwa you loved so much. Scrambling off the bed, you stumbled to the vanity, gripping the edges of it when you met your reflection. You weren't yourself. With trembling fingers, you reached up to touch your face, watching the woman in the mirror follow.

"No way." You exhaled.

Your voice was your own, but everything else was different. Your hair, your eyes, your clothes.

"How is this possible?" You uttered in disbelief.

A knock on the bedroom door startled you, causing you to flinch.

"My lady?"

A flash of panic shot through you and for a split second you considered hiding. Then you were struck with a realization. This was your chance. You could rewrite the story, change the ending.

"My lady?" Came the muffled call from the other side of the door.

You straightened your posture and twisted the handle, pulling the door ajar to peer through the crack. The high lady's assistant, well, your assistant, Seonghwa, stood outside.

"Yes?"

"Is everything alright? You took a while to answer."

"Of course." You shrugged it off with a huff.

"Right." He smoothed out his crisp uniform. "Today is the luncheon at the Emperor's palace."

The luncheon. Today marked one week until the innocent-faced Miyoung would arrive and start smearing the lady's name. You had a week to change things.

"Thank you." You told Seonghwa.

He gave a small bow and walked away.

You pushed the door shut with a soft click, resting your head against it.

"One week." You murmured under your breath.

Later that afternoon, you arrived at the emperor's castle, receiving a few sidelong glances from the guards as you entered the gates. Your black robes, covered in intricate silver embroidery, swayed at your feet with every step.

The garden was bustling with groups of other royals and wealthy individuals conversing amongst themselves.

There were eyes on you when you passed by, their stares off putting, but you didn't let it deter you. One of the butlers passed by and offered a tray of drinks to you, the flutes filled with sparking champagne. You thanked him and plucked one from the silver tray, taking a slow sip to steady yourself, scoping the place from over the rim of the glass. You caught sight of Emperor Hongjoong making his way around to greet everyone. When he got closer, you straightened your posture, ignoring your racing heart.

His eyes met yours and a flicker of surprise passed over his features. "Lady Y/n."

You gave a small cordial bow of your head. "Emperor Hongjoong."

He moved on to more attendees, leaving you to ponder your next move.

In the story, the lady didn't go out of her way to interact with Hongjoong. She buried herself in her duties and settled for admiring him from afar at events like this one—but you weren't her.

Once the luncheon kicked off, you began weaving your way through the crowd towards the table lined with food from meats to salad. Everything looked delicious. You prepared yourself a plate and went to take a seat at one of the small circular dining tables scattered about the garden.

No one came to join you.

This wasn't surprising since the wealthy woman you were now parading around as was distant and closed off. You ate in silence. When your plate was empty, one of the many staff around the garden came by to collect it. You thanked them and searched for Hongjoong.

His blue and gold robes stood out from the other wealthy individuals here. He stood by one of the cherry blossom trees by a small stream, observing the crowd. You slowly stood from your seat and made your way over to him.

"Beautiful day." You began.

Hongjoong turned his gaze to you, his response delayed. "It is."

His brown eyes swept the area before pulling back to you. "You're not often seen mingling at these things."

"I know." You let a faint chuckle slip out. "Must be jarring."

"Jarring might be too crass of a word." He murmured. "Unusual is more suitable."

"Unusual, yes." You nodded.

A gentle breeze blew by, rustling the robes that draped from yours and Hongjoong's bodies.

You were unsure of what to say. Being too open too soon would raise suspicion, or more than it already has. Even the emperor, despite inviting you go sit, was quiet.

"Did you have something to discuss with me?"

His question came out of nowhere.

"No. Why?"

"You always attend these events, but you never approach me." He stated.

"Just being polite." You responded coolly, pretending to smooth out a wrinkle in your robes.

Hongjoong studied you, but didn't say a word.

"Your highness." Someone called, shattering the silence between you.

Hongjoong's assistant, Yunho, came striding over, his eyes darting warily to you. He cleared his throat and leaned closer to Hongjoong.

"The grand duke would like a word."

"Grand Duke San?" The emperor inquired. "I'll be right there."

He paused to turn to you. "Lady Y/n." He dismissed, promptly following Yunho through the crowd.

You sighed, shoulders slumping. Maybe it was for the best that you didn't make a lot of progress. You still had six more days.

Lucky for you, the Emperor had a plethora of events until the arrival of Miyoung. And you would be at every single one, just like the high lady in the manhwa, except this time, you would make it a point to put yourself out there.

There was a dinner two days after the luncheon. It was in the dining hall of Hongjoong's palace. Another chance to mingle and talk business with the richest of the rich.

You sat at the long polished dining table that stretched across the vast room. The scent of roasted meats and savory soups filled the air. Those sitting on either side of you eyed you warily, so you offered them polite nods, dissolving some of the tenseness.

"Everyone." Hongjoong stood at the head of the table, calling for the guests' attention. "I would like to thank my head chef, Wooyoung for preparing this meal tonight."

Said man was beside Hongjoong in his cooking attire, the top half of his dark hair tied into a ponytail. He gave a deep bow of appreciation before leaving.

"Tonight I want you all to enjoy yourselves and have fun." Hongjoong said with a dazzling smile before sitting back down.

"Lady Y/n." The nobleman beside you spoke.

His name was Mingi, another duke, one from the Southern region. He was intense with a reputation for being blunt. "You don't usually attend these gatherings."

His comment was dismissed with a hum from you, showing that you acknowledged his words but had nothing to say.

He let out a little huff and began cutting into his honey-glazed duck. "These events are mostly for conversation and you hardly ever converse."

"I'm aware."

In the manhwa, the lady attended more formal events and used it to discuss business matters with other nobles. She buried herself in work and disregarded social events such as this one, which is why you were now in attendance. Social gatherings like this one were perfect for getting closer with certain emperors.

Duke Mingi ceased with his prying questions and settled on enjoying his meal in silence, which you were grateful for.

It seemed that the nobleman and women paid closer attention to you than you assumed, especially if a single instance at a garden luncheon raised suspicion.

Occasionally, Emperor Hongjoong's eyes would flicker in your direction, stealing brief glances when he thought you weren't paying attention. Why he kept starting? You hadn't the slightest clue. Perhaps he too was wondering why you were there.

Everyone's plates emptied, guests rose from their seats and gathered in corners of the grand dining room, more eager to socialize than to be seated at a table. The clatter of dishes being cleared by butlers accompanied the murmur of chatter from the guests.

Hongjoong was still seated, speaking with Grand Duke San to the left of him. His assistant, Yunho, stood behind the emperor, scanning the room. Duke Mingi had since abandoned his seat in favor of chatting with some snobby stockholder.

Hongjoong watched as you stood from your seat, moving awkwardly through the cluster of people, observing you silently while sipping his wine. You didn't approach anyone or join the groups conversing, just drifting.

You were planning, rehearsing. You wanted to play it cool, but the days were dwindling and you needed to make a move. During your silent scheming, you dared to steal a glance at Emperor Hongjoong, pausing when you met his gaze. He was already looking at you. A small nod in greeting was given to him in hopes to seem casual.

Hongjoong lifted two fingers and gestured for you to come over. Despite the initial shock, you made your way to him, the path feeling longer than it should as conversations died down a decibel and you began to feel like attention had shifted to you.

"Lady Y/n." Came his greeting.

"Emperor Hongjoong." You bowed.

His eyes darted to the empty chair at his right, accompanied by a jerk of his head, a silent invitation to join. This surprised you and without a word, you sat.

Duke San cleared his throat, seemingly bothered by your presence, and proceeded with his conversation while Yunho watched silently. You didn't exactly feel welcome at the table, but the emperor himself had offered you a seat, so you had to oblige.

While San discussed something about one of his trade deals, Hongjoong poured a glass of wine and without a word, slid it towards you. You blinked a couple times, processing the gesture. A few nearby murmurs caught your attention. Other nobles and wealthy individuals witnessed the significant act. The emperor personally poured you a drink. The Duke noticed this, his eyes narrowing slightly.

"You're interrupting important discussions." He addressed you suddenly.

"I'm sorry?"

Before San could repeat himself or say something worse, Hongjoong shot him a hard glare.

"She's not distracting me."

Your trembling fingers reached out to take the glass, drinking nearly half of it to calm your rising anger. You were experiencing firsthand the ridicule Lady Y/n faced.

San's jaw ticked in irritation and he went to speak again when Hongjoong raised his hand to silence the duke with one single gesture.

"I've invited Lady Y/n to join us and you will show respect." Hongjoong spoke, his words carrying authority.

San's agitation was clear, but he didn't argue.

"Lady Y/n." The emperor turned to address you. "Are you enjoying the dinner party?"

"It's very nice." You nodded. "The food was impeccable. You'll have to let your chef know."

He gave a soft smile at your words. "I'll let him know."

The rest of the night was a little less tense after Hongjoong broke the ice a bit. San ended up leaving the table at some point, put off by your friendlier behavior. You offered to leave as well so others could converse with Hongjoong, but to your surprise, he declined.

You paced around your chambers restlessly. Tomorrow was the dreaded day and you weren't sure how much progress you'd made with Emperor Hongjoong. Was it enough to protect your image before everyone could turn against you?

"My lady?"

You jumped at the voice, spinning around to find Seonghwa standing in your doorway.

"Apologies. I didn't mean to startle you."

"It's fine." You shook your head.

"Are you feeling alright? You've been different recently." He observed, his brows knitting together in concern.

"I'm perfectly fine." You straightened your posture, attempting to feign nonchalance.

"Very well." He dismissed, starting back to the door. "If you need anything, let me know."

"Thank you, Seonghwa."

A gala was held the day Miyoung arrived. You showed up in the nicest gown you could find in your wardrobe, smoothing out the flowy skirts as you entered.

The ballroom in the palace was huge and filled with the wealthiest individuals, people whispered as you passed. They'd picked up on the subtle shift in your behavior in recent days. You simply ignored them, holding your head high and striding through the crowds.

Since the dinner at Hongjoong's palace, you've felt more comfortable approaching him at gatherings and hope it granted you some grace with him in terms of your impending death.

A butler walked by and you swiftly took a flute of champagne from the silver tray. You took a long sip, steeling your nerves as you began to approach the emperor. Emerging from a cluster of partygoers, you spotted the man you were looking for and he was hugging someone. Your body stiffened when you caught sight of the silken black hair twisted into a tight bun and the pink fabrics on her body. Miyoung. You knew you'd see her there, but it was still rattling to lay eyes on her, even if it was just her backside.

Clearing your throat, you approached Hongjoong.

"I hope I'm not disturbing." You put on your most even tone to appear more casual.

"Oh, Lady Y/n, of course not." Hongjoong pulled away.

"Good. I won't take up your time. I just wanted to come over and greet you properly."

You caught Miyoung looking your way, her eyes slightly narrowed in distain as you spoke to the emperor.

"Well, it's good to see you." Hongjoong was smooth with his response, raising his glass in greeting.

You mirrored his actions. "Oh, and welcome back, Miyoung." You gave a tight smile towards her.

Her entire face changed, that annoyance disappearing in the blink of an eye, masked by a bright smile that could fool everyone—a smile that did fool everyone.

You took your leave swiftly and retreated to a table against the wall lined with finger foods. A couple individuals stood there conversing, Prince Yeosang from a kingdom across the river and his personal knight, Sir Jongho. The two of them noticed your presence immediately, watching you. They shared a glance, unsure whether to speak or not. You lifted your gaze from the spread of food and gave the two of them a faint, but not too obvious, smile.

"Good evening." You bowed your head in greeting.

They both blinked in surprise.

"Yes. Good evening." Yeosang managed to speak. Jongho merely nodded in silent acknowledgement.

You made your rounds through the massive ballroom, circling like a shark and plotting your next move. You caught sight of Miyoung, not clinging to Hongjoong's side like a leech for once, overhearing a conversation she was having with Duke Mingi.

"What's wrong with Lady Y/n?" She inquired, feigning concern.

"I don't know." Mingi responded. "She's been odd lately."

"You don't think she's losing it, do you?"

"Why?"

"This sudden change in personality is strange. It could be something mental."

There was a pause in Mingi's response. "I don't know."

"Well, from what I remember, she's always been so closed off, even before I went overseas. Poor thing. She hardly speaks and only shows up to formal events for business." The way the manipulative words spilled from her like a flowing river was jarring. Her sweet tone could fool anyone into thinking she was just concerned.

"Actually, she's been more social lately." Mingi mentioned. "She even showed up to a social gathering."

"A social gathering?" Miyoung echoed.

"Just the other day."

Your heart raced in your chest. It seemed like your attempts to put yourself out there were working. Instead of blindly believing what Miyoung was saying, Mingi was deciding things for himself based on what he experienced.

Your heart nearly stopped when you heard Duke San's voice join the conversation.

"Are you talking about Lady Y/n?"

"Yes. I'm so concerned about her." Miyoung said, her sickly sweet tone making you feel nauseous.

"You know, the emperor invited her to sit with us the other night at his dinner party?"

"He did." Mingi agreed.

"He what?" Miyoung asked.

"Yeah. And when I tried to say something, he silenced me."

You glanced over your shoulder, looking between the cluster of bodies to see the three chatting.

"Do you think she wants something?" Miyoung asked, placing a hand on her chest in mock concern.

"Her behavior has caught Emperor Hongjoong's attention, that's for sure." San said. "So it's possible."

You chewed on your bottom lip, your heart pounding so loudly you could hardly hear the murmur of conversation around you. Knowing how the story ended, you couldn't stand by and let Miyoung smear your name and manipulate everyone with her faux kindness.

Without realizing, you were headed towards the group, squeezing your way through the crowd.

"Excuse me." You put on a thin smile. "I couldn't help but overhear this discussion you're all having and I must say I don't appreciate you spreading lies and making assumptions about me and questioning my character." You shot Miyoung a glare. "Or my mental state."

Mingi had frozen up and even San was surprised at the way you took up for yourself.

"It's not very ladylike to gossip." You stated.

Miyoung, for once, didn't mask the agitation on her face.

With that, you left with your parting words. "Enjoy the party."

The crowd nearby dispersed as you walked past, some of them having overheard the confrontation. The anger you felt was indescribable, but the satisfaction of sticking up for yourself felt so refreshing.

Hongjoong saw the top of your head storming swiftly through the crowd, his conversation with Yunho coming to a halt.

"Where is Lady Y/n going?"

Yunho turned, catching sight of you just as you slipped out of the ballroom. "I'm not sure."

Hongjoong set his glass down and immediately went after you. Yunho made no effort to stop him.

Air. You needed fresh air, just for a moment. You found a set of glass doors and pushed them open, stepping outside on a stone patio. The heat emanating from your face due to the confrontation was soothed by the nighttime breeze.

Seconds later, the click of the doors sounded from behind you. Then you saw the signature deep blue robes of Emperor Hongjoong in your peripheral.

"Are you okay?" He asked.

You stared out at the moonlit garden, taking in the way the blueish hue tinted everything from the rose bushes to the cherry blossom trees.

"I'm not who everyone thinks I am." You said, not looking at Hongjoong.

The double meaning to your words was lost on the emperor, but it felt good to say them regardless.

"Why do you say that?" He took a step closer.

"Because I hear the whispers." A pause. "I know what people think of me."

"And what do they think of you?"

"That I'm cold and unfeeling. That I'm too closed off. Even Miyoung is in there trying to smear my name, questioning my mental state and putting outrageous ideas in people's heads. She fooling everyone with that innocent smile."

"Not me."

Your head snapped to Hongjoong, your eyes wide. He was standing just a foot away now.

"People fear what they don't understand."

Your chest ached at his words and you felt like crying as memories resurfaced—her memories. Your eyes began to well with tears, a deep sadness aching in your chest. You had the lady's memories. Her pain. And it all felt so real.

You turned away, feeling same, not yours but hers.

Hongjoong took half a step forward, his fingers twitching to reach out.

"I'm sorry. I must look pathetic right now." You uttered faintly.

The emperor then did something no one would expect. He pulled you into his arms.

Your breath caught in your throat. No one had held you like this. In the real world, yes, but Lady Y/n never got this and it hurt you. It hurt the real you too because this was something you needed. Working ungodly hours for measly pay at the office, doing everything you could to get by, resorting to fixing things yourself. You were alone in the real world, always too tired and too broke to go out. In this moment, the emotions you were feeling weren't just yours, but Lady Y/n's too. In that moment, you didn't have to be strong.

Your hands were trembling like leaves as they rested against Hongjoong's back, your head turning into his shoulder.

"My upbringing was unpleasant." You spoke, voice muffled against his robes. "My parents were strict. Showing emotion was seen as weakness, so I had to conceal my feelings. I barely socialized and due to that, I developed severe insecurity. I found it hard to approach people and thought it was easier to keep to myself."

"Thank you for sharing that with me." Hongjoong said. "But you've no need to hide anymore."

You held him tighter, fingers curling into the fabric of his clothes.

"I will not allow myself to be swayed. Not after seeing a change in you with my own eyes."

Hongjoong pulled away, bringing his hand up to gently brush away a tear.

"It's alright." He soothed, his eyes roaming your face for a moment. "I like the real you."

Your breath caught in your throat when his lips pressed to your cheek. He didn't pull away, leaving barely any space between your faces as he met your wide-eyed stare. There was a single pause before he closed the gap and kissed your lips.

It was soft and hesitant, like Hongjoong was giving you time to pull away. So when you responded by kissing him back, he doubled down. Feeling his lips on yours was a breath of fresh air and a testament to the efforts you put into changing Lady Y/n's fate—your fate. Your hands cupped his cheeks and you deepened the kiss. He exhaled through his nose and responded with a slow drag of his lips, pouring every emotion into it.

The kiss only ended when you both needed a breath, parting ways to take in some air.

"Would you like to go back inside?" Hongjoong asked.

"What about Miyoung?"

"I'll keep an eye on her. You just stick with me."

"Okay. I'll give it another go."

"Good." He took your hand and led you to the glass doors. "I'd like to see you again after tonight."

"You would?"

"Yes." He smiled. "Only if you're okay with it."

"I am." You nodded, returning the grin.

"Then it's settled. Let's head back."

You returned home later that night feeling so much lighter. Hongjoong stayed true to his word and kept an eye on Miyoung. He even defended you when she started saying odd things about you. You had done it. You changed Lady Y/n's fate.

"I take it you had a good evening?" Seonghwa greeted you with a grin the second you walked in.

This time you smiled brightly. Your own smile.

"Yes. I did. Things are looking up, Hwa."

"That's wonderful."

You went to your room and changed into your pajamas, undoing your hair and removing all the makeup from the gala. There was a soft knock on your door and Seonghwa poked his head inside.

"May I have a moment to speak with you?"

"Of course."

He entered the room and took a seat in a nearby chair. "I have something to confess."

"Yes?"

"I know you aren't Lady Y/n."

Your heart sank. "What?"

"It's alright." His voice was calm as ever. "I'm the one who made this all happen."

"What?" Your brain was a mess trying to process it all. Seonghwa knew this entire time?

"I know my lady isn't a cold woman." He explained. "So I brought you here in hopes that you would change things. No matter what I said, she wouldn't open up. She just allowed everyone to speak ill of her. I needed you to change the future— and now you have. So I'm giving you a choice. Would you like to go back?"

Go back. Those two words made your chest feel heavily. Go back to your old life, back to the apartment in shambles, to the job that worked you to the bone?

"No." You responded decidedly.

"You wish to stay?"

"I don't know what waits for me if I go back." You played with the fabric of your nightclothes. "Besides, my life was a nightmare anyway. This story—sorry, this universe, was my only escape from it all."

Seonghwa's gaze softened. "Very well."

You knew you'd be alright, especially with Seonghwa knowing your secret.

Due to your actions in changing Lady Y/n's fate, the people in the kingdom started to see the real you. Miyoung was kept at a distance and eventually went back overseas after she finally had enough and lashed out, making a scene in front of everyone. She had to be escorted out of an event after Hongjoong proposed to you. It quite funny.

Presently, you were having breakfast with your new fiancé, laughing over warm buttered croissants, eggs, and fresh juice, his hand clasping yours.

This, you supposed, was what happily ever after truly felt like.

Masterlist ᝰ — enjoyed this imagine? reblogs & comments are very much appreciated!

DO NOT steal, plagiarize, copy, repost, alter, or translate my works in any way

The silence in the submarine was deafening, the ringing in your ears was the only thing you could hear and it only got louder as the quiet stretched on. One might go crazy inside this vessel if they were in it long enough.

The quiet was shattered when one of the little lights flashed and ticked, indicating a nearby object. Hongjoong's fingers curled around the handle to the left, twisting it to steer the rattle trap around whatever was causing the sensors to go off. The little triangle on the circular screen turned with Hongjoong's maneuvers as the submarine shifted. The flashing subsided instantly and you proceeded with your journey.

Hongjoong was your captain and you were his second in command. He led the rebellion against the COI and Eden, making his own community of survivors. Utopia. Now you were both stuck in a rickety submarine dubbed The Iron Lung, sent into the depths of an ocean of blood and tasked with exploring it in exchange for your freedom. Information on this illusive ocean was scarce and the soldiers that tasked you and Hongjoong with this mission were vague. They wouldn't tell you what you were looking for, just that you had to photograph it. Since you couldn't take pictures through blood, the submarine was equipped with a special camera that could capture images via X-rays.

You sighed and kneeled on the grated floors, digging through the satchel you were given before being welded inside the submarine, pulling out a notebook. Flicking through the pages, you saw information and images of the submarine printed on them, some of the words blocked out with marker, a paragraph marked with a big X on it and the word NO in bold. It was odd, but you brushed it aside and skimmed the information inside. How to operate the control panel, the parts of the submarine, etc.

"This says excessive use of the camera could expose us to radiation." You said aloud.

Hongjoong paused, glancing over his shoulder.

"Great." He scoffed. "They put us in a death trap."

"No kidding." You grumbled.

"Let's just not use the camera too much."

You hummed in agreement and flicked through more pages, taking on the duty of familiarizing yourself with everything.

"Okay." Hongjoong murmured to himself, repeating the coordinates under his breath. "We're here."

You snapped the notebook shut and slipped it back into the messenger bag, getting to your feet.

On the back wall was a glowing green button, to the left was a giant screen for displaying images captured with the X-ray camera.

Hongjoong stood and joined you in the back.

"Alright. Go for it."

You hit the button and a bright flash of white temporarily blinded you both. When it faded, a fuzzy image showed what appeared to be teeth sticking up from the ocean floor. The objects were elongated with uneven ends.

"What is that?" Hongjoong murmured.

"Dunno, but they wanted us to take pictures of it." You shrugged. "I'd say we're done."

Hongjoong mirrored your shrug and used the charcoal stick he was given to add a check mark on the map.

He dropped back into the little chair in front of the control panel and steered the vessel towards the next location. He hummed quietly, finger tracing the grid on the map to find the correct coordinates. You walked over and stood by, observing Hongjoong while he did his work. He was someone you admired and would follow to the ends of the earth. His views on the future and what it could be inspired you. He wanted to forge his own path, separate from the cultish beliefs of Eden and the harsh perspectives of the COI. "They both have flaws." He had told you once.

He just wanted a community where people could simply exist.

You arrived at the second destination, finding a cluster of jagged sticks, like scraggly tree limbs of some sort.

"Stick things." Hongjoong murmured to himself, checking off the coordinates on the map.

"This all seems pointless." You said as the submarine rattled forward, the metal creaking again.

"I agree, but we have to do it."

You stepped over to the control panel.

"Why don't I steer for a bit? I don't want you doing all the work."

"I'm fine." He glanced back towards you. "I can handle it."

You wished he wouldn't take on so much by himself. Maybe it was his sense of leadership. Maybe he felt responsible to get you two out of this situation. Or maybe he cared for you more than you thought.

"Well," You began. "if you change your mind, let me know."

He hummed in acknowledgment, turning the knob on the control panel to steer the submarine in the right path, listening to the beeps of the proximity indicator.

Your attention drifted to the shabby interior of the rattle trap. The pipes lining the walls were rusty and glistening with condensation. This vessel wasn't safe, anyone could see it. Of course, you don't expect the COI to give convicts a stable sub to use for this exploration. No. "Criminals" got scraps.

"We're here." Hongjoong announced when the vessel came to a creaking halt.

You shuffled to the back and hit the green button to capture an X-ray photo. There were strange striped tubes coming from the ocean floor in arches. Your expression twitched at the abnormal sight.

Hongjoong, who had joined you to catch a glimpse of the "anomaly" was unfazed. He returned to his seat in silence, checked off the location, and proceeded with the journey.

The submarine lurched as Hongjoong adjusted course, referencing the map.

Hongjoong sighed, like what you were both doing was an inconvenience.

"I just don't understand why they'd send us down here." He muttered, turning the steering lever.

"Yeah. Taking pictures of 'anomalies' doesn't seem like rehabilitation to me."

"No. It doesn't." He uttered quietly. "I can't put my finger on it, but something doesn't feel right."

You nodded silently in agreement.

This was a strange punishment, if it even was one. Though it didn't seem like a way to absolve you and Hongjoong of your so-called "crimes" either.

The occasional beeps of the proximity indicator  punctuated the silence lingering inside the sealed sub. Your gaze was trained on the back of Hongjoong's head, his dark hair partially tied into a ponytail. Your fingers fidgeted with the sleeves of your shirt, observing your captain. You weren't sure when your admiration turned into attraction, but somewhere along the way, things changed. Feelings morphed from platonic to something stronger. There was never a time to confess your feelings, and now you were stuck in this situation, your circumstances less than ideal.

It was too quiet and you had the urge to say something. The words were right there, an urge present in your chest. The silence was begging to be filled and your lips parted.

"Oxygen." The robotic voice cut through the silence in the submarine like a knife, your eyes darting to the lights at the right of the sealed porthole. Three remained.

Hongjoong was looking at it too.

"We'd better hurry." You said.

"We're almost done."

The submarine creaked and groaned when it slowed to a stop at the next zone. Hongjoong pushed himself out of the chair and shuffled to the back with you. You pressed the glowing button, triggering a flash of light. The bright white faded to reveal the image you captured. Your breath hitched at the sight that flashed on the screen, startled by its sudden appearance. With these X-ray images you never know what's going to pop up.

"Bones." Hongjoong murmured.

"There were living things here." You added, examining the picture. The closest thing it could be compared to was a dinosaur, its ribs sticking up from the ocean floor.

Everything went silent again, the weight of your shared discovery weighing down on the both of you. You turned to Hongjoong, searching his face.

"What are you thinking right now?"

"I'm thinking if there's bones down here, things lived in this ocean once." An eerie pause. "Maybe they still do."

You shook your head. "No. The head soldier at the COI said nothing down here was alive."

"Do you really believe her?" His voice had an edge to it.

No. You didn't. You were simply in denial.

"Let's get moving." He said, going back to his chair.

You followed behind, standing at his side as he grabbed the steering handles and navigated the vessel away from the zone, proceeding to the next one.

"Just in case there are things down here, we should hurry." He cautioned. "We've only got one more stop."

That brought some relief. One more anomaly to capture and you'd find your way out and back to the COI base. They'd let you go and you'd be able to return to life as normal—or as normal as it could be.

Since the Quiet Rapture, things haven't been normal. It's been people fighting for places to inhabit, struggling to survive. Wars have nearly broken out between Eden and the COI. Utopia was peaceful, but since the destruction of Filament Station, thanks to Eden, the COI have gone after any and all groups that aren't theirs. That's how you ended up here. They ambushed you. They attacked.

The muscles in your jaw tightened at the unfairness of it all. Utopia has done nothing but exist in peace.

"It's not fair." You grit out under your breath.

Hongjoong noticed the subtle bite in your tone.

"We didn't do anything to them. They just assumed we were a threat." You continued. "It's unjust."

"I know." He murmured. "We were just existing."

His attention drifted to you for a moment, silently assessing your body language, tense and rigid.

"We're gonna push through." He assured you.

The sharp edges of your anger softened at his words. He was always so optimistic. You both envied and admired that about him.

You glanced at the coordinates on the ragged map where the final stop was, then at the numbers on the control panel. You were almost there.

You weren't sure how you were going to get back, and you weren't going to concern yourself with it right now. Not until the last image was captured.

As you neared the final stop, the air felt heavier somehow. You couldn't put a name to it or explain why, but your stomach churned with unease.

"Alright. We're here." Hongjoong announced, getting up from his chair.

You joined him at the back and captured a picture, your final one.

More bones. A spine, it seemed.

The long curve of a vertebrae, pale and jagged against the dark backdrop arched from the ocean floor. It was massive, just like the skeleton you discovered at the previous zone.

"We're done." Hongjoong exhaled.

He started to walk away while you stayed looking at the image, observing it. In the back, beyond the skeletal spine, was something else.

"Wait." You grabbed the back of Hongjoong's shirt made from scrappy fabric.

"What?"

"Look." You pointed.

He stepped closer, squinting, straining to discern whatever lurked in the void. Grayish splotches that were barely noticeable made the vague shape of something unidentifiable.

"I'm sure it's nothing to worry about. It could be a rock wall."

"Yeah. Maybe you're right. It's not our business anyway." You dismissed, the image fading from the screen.

You had completed your convict rehabilitation tasks. It was time to go back.

Hongjoong returned to the controls, double-checking the vessel's current position.

"It looks like we're near a tunnel system." He observed, pointing to where a narrow passage was depicted on the map.

You couldn't help but wonder what other strange things were in that tunnel.

"They didn't have us explore that." You voiced your thoughts aloud.

"The cables attached to the sub probably wouldn't do well going through a tunnel. The base needs a way to pull us out."

"Right."

"Anyway." Hongjoong cracked his knuckles. "Let's head back."

His fingers curled around the steering handles and he began the journey back.

Despite the lingering unease, you felt a spark of hope. That flicker fueled your courage and the words you were prepared to speak earlier were ready to come out.

"Hey, Joong?" You only ever called him that when you were having personal discussions.

"Yes?"

"My timing isn't the best, but I guess I'm feeling brave since we completed the mission."

This wasn't how you planned on confessing, welded inside of a rickety iron submarine surrounded by blood and bones, but you weren't sure what would happen after this. The COI were untrustworthy and for all you knew, they could separate you once you returned or claim you hadn't completed your tasks and keep you prisoner.

"I like you." The words were simple and straightforward. Not romantic or heartfelt, just the truth.

Hongjoong paused and turned in the chair, the dim lights casting shadows over his sharp features. You were trying to read his expression, panic and regret stirring in your gut the longer the silence stretched.

You opened your mouth to dismiss the whole confession when a noise from outside the vessel stopped you. There was a low resonance beyond the rusted walls that struck a small rush of panic in your chest. Your head jerked towards the disturbance.

"Did you hear that?"

"Hear what?"

That same sound, a deep rumble of something moving vibrated the submarine.

"That." You pointed to the wall of the vessel.

Hongjoong's expression shifted and his jaw tightened.

"We have to get out of here." You urged, trying to suppress the panic in your voice.

Every light on the proximity indicator ticked at once and a resounding thud abruptly knocked against the hull of the submarine, sending you stumbling back, colliding against the metal pipes with a grunt.

"What was that?" Hongjoong asked.

"I don't know." You pushed yourself off the wall, staggering a little. "Everything in this ocean is dead."

"Or supposed to be." Hongjoong added grimly, walking over to the green button.

"Wait." You scrambled to your feet, heart racing.

"We shouldn't overuse the button. The radiation."

"We have to see what's out there."

You stared at Hongjoong for what felt like ages before your hand rested on the button. "We do it together."

He gave a single nod and you pushed.

A bright white flash temporarily blinded you both before it faded into a grainy image. Your heart dropped to your feet, the blood draining from your face.

A massive, horrifically mutated creature was pictured on screen. It had two small eyes, slits for nostrils, and a set of terrifying long teeth that tapered into points.

Fear gripped you so fiercely that your throat tightened and moisture stung your eyes as the image faded from the screen.

"What is that?" You uttered shakily.

"That might be what you were seeing earlier. Behind the bones."

"I knew it." You trembled. "I knew something wasn't right."

Hongjoong hit the button once more with his fist clenched tightly.

The creature was closer now and a small, weak noise left you, your trembling hands gripping the front of your shirt for comfort. It looked even more frightening now that you could see it clearer.

"What do we do?" You uttered.

You were trapped. This submarine wouldn't stand a chance against whatever that was. It wasn't equipped with weapons and it certainly wouldn't hold up if it were hit.

Hongjoong swallowed thickly and you could've sworn you saw a flash of fear in his brown eyes. He didn't respond, taking another picture. This time, the creature had backed off.

When that image faded, he took another, using the strong X-ray camera as a way to fend off the monstrous being.

When the threat had retreated, you took a staggering step back, your breaths short and panicked. You could hear your heart thudding like a drum in your ears.

"Hey."

Hongjoong's voice cut through the pounding and your wide eyes met his, which were eerily calm for someone in a potentially life-threatening situation.

"We're gonna get through this." He told you, his hand finding yours.

Your breath hitched, fingers twitching as he laced his with yours.

"I'm scared." You croaked.

"I know, but stay strong. Okay?"

Hongjoong's gaze pierced into yours, as if trying to convey a silent message, and it helped. It always did. Whenever you were upset about anything, he always had a way of calming your nerves and easing your anxieties. You took in a deep breath and exhaled slowly.

"There you go." He released your hand and went to his seat. "Let's get out of here."

You moved to stand behind him, your hands holding onto the back of the rickety leather seat for stability.

"We need to make contact with the COI."

As much as you didn't trust them, they might be your only hope.

Hongjoong started backtracking, navigating his way back from where you both came, moving as fast as the sub would allow.

"Oxygen."

As if things weren't already bad, you were down to half your oxygen supply, the O2 level showing only two lights.

"Don't worry about that right now." Hongjoong advised.

Tearing your eyes away from the meter, you shifted your focus to the latitude and longitude numbers on the control panel, watching them flicker. The blood ocean rushed past the sealed vessel, every noise keeping you on high alert. The proximity indicator ticked and flashed whenever you were near an object and Hongjoong skillfully maneuvered around each one.

A drop of blood landed on the panel and you stepped back, glancing up at the ceiling where the red liquid had gathered in one small spot.

Hongjoong followed your gaze, noting the buildup.

"This thing can't handle the depths."

Hearing that made your stomach drop. You both knew this thing wasn't equipped to handle the pressure of a blood ocean. The solider from the COI told you that as you made your descent.

"They said this thing was welded as tight as they could get it." You told Hongjoong. "And we still have leaks."

He pressed his lips together. "I know."

The depth meter started rising slowly, as did your hopes. The glowing bar climbed its way past the red zone on the meter. You looked towards the speaker on the upper wall of the interior, hoping to make contact with the COI base.

"Hello?" You called, testing out the connection. "Can anyone hear me?"

Silence followed.

"Hello?"

Static fizzled through the clunky box and broken, unintelligible sentence fragments cut in.

"Hey." Your words had a frantic edge to them. "Can anyone hear me?"

"Convict 2?" The voice of the head soldier of the COI spoke, her radio feed choppy, but clear enough to understand.

"Yes!" You exclaimed in relief. "You have to get us out of here."

"Did you get the pictures?"

"Yes, we got the pictures, but we found something else."

A pause. "What do you mean something else?"

Hongjoong hesitated in his steering and glanced over his shoulder at you, his expression grim.

"W-we don't know. It was..." You had to swallow down the panic in your voice as the image of that thing flashed in your mind unprompted. "some giant monster with hundreds of sharp teeth."

"What else have you seen?" She asked you.

"Just weird objects and some bones."

"Bones?"

"Yes."

"That ocean is empty." The woman said.

"No, it's not." Hongjoong's voice cut in sharply. "Are you listening to her? We saw something alive. It attacked us, knocked right into the submarine. It could've been the thing that left those bones for all we know."

"Did you get pictures of it?"

"Yes. It's all I could do to fend it off." He bit. "You guys didn't exactly equip this thing with weapons."

She sighed over the intercom. "Are you sure it was alive?"

"Yes!" You and Hongjoong both exploded, reaching your limit with her lack of urgency.

"It moved." He stated pointedly.

"The terrain is made of congealed blood. The ocean floor tends to shift."

Your heart sank. "Why do you sound like you don't believe us?"

There was a long pause that spoke volumes.

"Are we even getting out of here?" Hongjoong asked after an agonizingly long stretch of silence.

"I can't answer that." She finally responded.

Your heart sank as everything shifted into place, realization dawning on you. This mission was suspicious from the start. No comms. No way out until completion. Now you'd captured all the pictures you needed and they wouldn't let you go.

"Why not?" Hongjoong stood from his chair and went over to the speaker. "The deal was for us to take pictures of anomalies and we'd be free." His tone had a sharp edge to it. "This is life or death! There's something down here and it doesn't want us snooping around. Pull us up."

"Watch your tone, Convict 1." She snapped. "You're in no position to make demands."

Your jaw clenched so hard you thought it might snap, your fists balled tightly at your sides.

"You're a liar!" You snapped, lashing out. "You lied to us!"

Hongjoong watched you with concern, his hand reaching out for one of your trembling fists. Some of your rage fizzled at his touch, but there was still a flicker of resentment in your chest.

"Were we even supposed to make it out?" You uttered faintly, voice wavering.

"Yes."

"She's lying." Hongjoong immediately spoke up.

You closed your eyes, fighting back tears.

A groan reverberated through the rusted metal of the ship and low rumble sounded outside.

"It's here." You whispered shakily.

"It found us." Hongjoong said to the speaker. "Get us out!"

"Just hang on!" She snarled.

"We don't have time!" Hongjoong shouted.

Every light on the proximity indicator ticked and flashed at once, your wide eyes darting to look at it.

"What's—" You yelped when a sudden force knocked the side of the vessel, sending both you and Hongjoong tumbling across the floor.

"Convicts?" The soldier's voice called out. "What's going on?"

You winced, a sharp pain shooting up your back upon impact. Your captain was on his side, crumpled in a heap on the metal flooring.

"Hongjoong?"

He didn't move.

"Hongjoong?" You scrambled towards him, rolling him onto his back.

A strained sound of discomfort grumbled in his chest and you breathed a sigh of relief.

"Are you okay?"

He didn't have a chance to answer as you were both launched across the small space again. Hongjoong groaned, his body colliding with yours. Everything happened so fast, you didn't notice he had wrapped his arms around you to shield you from the impact.

"Convicts! Talk to me!" The woman demanded.

"It's attacking!" Hongjoong responded sharply, annoyed at her insistent demands when you two were getting knocked around like ragdolls.

You let out moan of discomfort as aches throbbed along your backside. You could hear the woman stepping away from the intercom, talking to her crew.

"You okay?" Hongjoong asked.

"I think so." You blinked, noticing the way he was wrapped around your body. "What about you? You took most of the impact."

He smiled faintly at you. "That's what a captain does.”

"Alright." The woman sighed roughly. "We're pulling you up."

All you could do was hold Hongjoong tighter as the entire sub rattled, an overwhelming rush of relief flooding your veins.

"Y/n?"

"Yes?"

"About earlier, what you said."

Your heart jumped into your throat and regret started to churn in your gut. "What about it?"

"I like you too."

"What?"

He gave a soft smile. "I like you too."

A bright smile broke out across your features, and optimism bloomed in your chest.

The moment was shattered when the ticking on the console returned and the submarine was jostled again, both you and Hongjoong screaming in unison. The creature hadn't retreated. It was still lingering, pushing on the vessel.

"What's going on? There's resistance." The soldier asked.

"That thing is still here!" Hongjoong shouted, his arms tightening around you.

"It's pulling us down with you." She said.

"Then pull harder!" He demanded.

"We can't. We have to cut the line."

"N-no!" You cried out. "Don't! Please!"

"You can't leave us!" Anger and desperation laced Hongjoong's tone.

"I'm sorry." Came her final words before the two of you were sent tumbling around the cabin as your only way back home was cut.

When the vessel landed on the ocean floor, the lights inside flickered and your bodies collided with the metal grating.

"Ah." Hongjoong whimpered, attempting to push himself up looking dazed, maybe even concussed.

Your body hurt, your breaths were coming out fast and shallow as your reality shifted into place. The COI cut the cables that connected the submarine to their ship. They left you.

They weren't coming back.

"Hongjoong?" Your trembling voice gave away just how terrified you were.

He blinked hard a couple of times to clear the fogginess in his head before responding. "Yeah?"

"Are you hurt?"

"I don't think so." He grunted, bringing a hand up to rub his head. He had a small cut on his brow. "Are you?"

"N-no." You examined yourself. "Just scraped up."

All the while you were holding back tears, your throat tightening as you tried to ignore the groaning of The Iron Lung settling.

It was quiet—deathly quiet. Your vision blurred with watery tears and one finally slipped free, trailing down your cheek. Hongjoong's body stiffened when he noticed your current emotional state and brought a hand up to your cheek, swiping the tear away with his thumb.

"They wanted us to die from the beginning." You sobbed. "I don't think we were ever meant to make it out."

"Hey." Hongjoong's brows were knitted together in concern and he scooted closer to where your bodies were flush against one another. "It's gonna be okay."

You could see barely-concealed fear in his eyes, but he continued to put on a tough exterior, no doubt trying to keep it together for your sake.

"I don't think it is." You uttered weakly.

"No." He spoke firmly. "We're getting out of here. I'll make sure of it."

He stood, staggering to the green light and slammed his palm on it, a fuzzy image of a tunnel flashing on the screen.

Your brows furrowed and you wiped your tears. "Are these the tunnels we were outside of earlier?"

"Maybe." He surmised, moving to the chair, spinning it to face the console before sitting down.

You watched from your spot on the floor as your captain pulled out the map again, his finger dragging across its textured surface.

You nearly got choked up by just watching him and his endless determination. Hongjoong's eyes flickered to the numbers of your location, his fingertip tracing along the grid printed on the map. Pushing yourself to your feet, you ignored the aches and teetered over to him.

"We were here." He pointed to your last location, then his hand moved to a different area. "Now we're here."

"How?"

"I think that thing pushed us further away."

Your eyes drifted to the closed porthole, knowing that beyond the glass was an endless tunnel system.

"Do you think these are its tunnels?"

"Possibly."

You looked around the area, finding the satchel of notebooks had toppled over and its contents scattered. Picking up the notebook with the submersible info inside, you used it as a makeshift table, snatching the map and charcoal pencil.

"You steer and I'll map our path." You told Hongjoong.

Something akin to motivation sparked in his brown irises and the hint of a smirk tugged at his mouth.

"Let's do it." His fingers curled around the lever and he pushed it forward, the submarine shuddering as it moved ahead.

Any time the proximity indicators would go off, Hongjoong would change the direction of the vessel and have you mark its position on the map. You took occasional photos to get a general understanding of the area, keeping an eye on the depth meter as well.

As you were marking a location, a drop of blood fell onto the parchment. You gasped softly and quickly wiped it away with your sleeve.

"More leaks." Hongjoong murmured. "We have to keep moving."

The vessel groaned in protest and rattled ahead.

"What are we going to do if we make it out? I doubt the COI are waiting for us. Who's gonna undo the welding on this thing?" You asked.

Hongjoong pressed his lips together and released a long sigh. "I don't know, but I'm sure if we manage to get to the surface they'll spot us."

"I hope so." You whispered, gaze drifting to the interior of the sub where blood was now slowly oozing through the cracks of the metal sheets and down the piping along the walls.

"Oxygen."

Both your's and Hongjoong's eyes snapped to the O2 meter where only one light remained.

"Oh no." You whispered

"It's okay. Don't worry about that right now." He advised. "Stay focused."

You blinked a few times and nodded, trying to ground yourself.

Then, a whooshing sound outside the submarine. Your breath caught and you looked to your captain. He paused in navigating and rushed to the camera to take a photo.

A mangled mess of arms and legs flashed on the camera and you let out an involuntary noise of panic. The image faded and Hongjoong took another one. This time you could see what those appendages were a part of. It was that thing. That eel with all the teeth.

"It's made out of human bodies." You squeaked, eyes brimming with tears as the notebook nearly slipped from your gasp.

Human bodies all mutated into one giant monster.

Hongjoong took a step back from the screen, his mind a whirlwind.

He immediately headed back to his chair only to be thrown back when the vessel was jostled. He went flying to the far wall, his body hitting the camera button on impact, a flash following. You were thrown into the pipes, everything in your arms clattering to the floor as you were forced into the harsh, rusted metal.

You whimpered, bringing a shaky hand up to your brow, pulling back to find blood on your fingertips.

You had to blink a few times to clear your vision and saw your captain lying in a heap on the floor.

"Hongjoong!" You cried, staggering over towards him, knocking into things in the process.

You didn't make it over as you collapsed. Your head was throbbing and you couldn't focus.

"Joong."

Your eyelids fell shut and everything went black.

"Y/n!"

A distant voice reached your ears, rousing you into consciousness

"Y/n!" The voice was louder now, coming from above as you finally peeled your eyes open.

Hongjoong's battered face shifted into view and you parted your lips to speak.

"What happened?" You croaked.

"You passed out."

"Huh?" You started to sit up, wincing at the pain.

"I don't know how long you were out, but that thing is still outside. We have to fight it."

"How?"

Hongjoong helped you up, making sure you had your bearings.

"I have an idea." He said.

You managed to follow him to the chair, forgetting about the things you dropped on the floor. This wasn't about finding a way out anymore, this was about defeating the one thing standing in your way.

"What's your idea?" You asked.

"I'm gonna ram it."

"The sub won't make it."

He turned to you with a somber expression and your heart sank.

"We don't have a choice."

You swallowed thickly, your hands gripping the back of the rickety seat. "Do it."

Hongjoong shoved the lever forward with force and The Iron Lung groaned and rattled with the movement.

"Check the camera." Hongjoong instructed.

You went to the back of the sub and pressed the button, the mutated face of the eel taking up majority of the screen.

"It's right in front of you. Staring right at us." You said.

"Good." He grit out. "Hold onto something."

You went to where he sat and wrapped your arms around him from behind, squeezing your eyes shut and bracing for impact.

The submarine jerked and a screech rang out around you.

"Hull breach. Hull breach. Hull breach." A robotic voice repeated through the speaker.

When you opened your eyes, you found that the porthole cover had somehow deactivated and a crack marred the glass.

"That's not good." You uttered.

Blood sprayed in through the fissure in the porthole window, leaving a red streak across your faces.

You winced, wiping the fluid from your cheek. Hongjoong made a noise of disgust and cleaned the spray from across his nose.

"Did we kill it?" Came the fateful question.

"I don't know."

The silence stretched on and neither of you heard any disturbances. Hongjoong sighed and turned to assess you. His brows furrowed.

"That gash on your brow looks infected." He brought a finger up to it, brushing over the area that had now become more than just a cut.

"The scrapes on your face look worse too." You noted.

He pulled back to feel his own wounds, hissing at the sensitivity of them.

"Let's just go." He dismissed, reaching for the lever again.

The control panel was smudged with blood and the interior of the cabin had become more severe. Puddles of blood were accumulating inside and it had your anxiety rising.

"Hongjoong. The blood."

He turned, scanning the damage. "We'll just keep going. We've still got some oxygen."

"Yeah, but how much?"

"I don't know." He stated grimly.

You proceeded through the tunnels, continuing your journey back. The map had gotten smeared with blood, but you used it anyway, mapping out your trail. Neither of you were going to quit. If there was even a shred of hope, you would cling to it. You both would.

Hongjoong had you take pictures periodically to see where you were, assessing the terrain.

All the while, you kept an eye on the leaks. They were slow, but blood was accumulating in the cabin and eventually it would fill the entire vessel. You hoped it wouldn't come to that.

You pushed on the camera button for what felt like the hundredth time, a white spot glowing in the distance.

"What is it?" Hongjoong asked.

"I don't know." You murmured.

The submarine rumbled forward and you took another picture. The orb was a little bigger now, but you still weren't sure exactly what it was. 

"It's a light."

Hongjoong pushed himself up and joined you at the back, assessing the image. "That could be our ticket out."

He returned to the console and pushed on.

Everything around you slowly got hazy and distorted, the vessel vibrating and rumbling due to some unseen force.

"Ugh. What on earth?" Hongjoong grunted, holding his head.

You blinked hard a few times, teetering your way to the camera. The photograph captured was indescribable. A bright light shone brilliantly before you, its magnitude felt even through the screen and the iron walls of the submarine.

"What is that?" Hongjoong's disoriented voice came from beside you.

"I don't know." You whispered, trying to stay upright. "It's... intense."

Despite both your discomfort, you couldn't tear your eyes away from it. The light was otherworldly. You could feel it in your soul. This was something else. It felt alive.

Your trances were broken by a screech, followed by the groaning of the metal. You tumbled into Hongjoong as the vessel was jerked. Some of the disorienting effects faded, leading you to believe something pulled you back.

"That eel isn't dead." You grit out.

Not even a second later, multiple sharp teeth punctured through the hull and a scream ripped from your throat. The interior began flooding.

"No. No. No. No." Hongjoong snarled defiantly, grabbing the control handles and pushing forward.

The eel screeched and retracted its teeth, but that only made the deluge of blood seep in faster.

"Leave us alone!" You shouted, knowing the creature couldn't hear you.

"No." A distorted female voice echoed.

Both you and Hongjoong froze, looking at each other, then at the speaker. You were too deep to make a connection with the COI base.

"You've seen the light. We cannot let you leave." She growled.

The eel. She was speaking to both of you. How?

Hongjoong's expression hardened. "We're getting out of here."

He thrust the submarine forward again and the eel screeched.

"You fools!" She cried.

"Again." You demanded, joining Hongjoong at the front, your hand wrapping around his where it gripped the throttle.

He met your gaze and you could've sworn you saw a flicker of red in his eyes. You pushed forward with him, ramming into the eel, ignoring her words.

She let out a rough noise and the entire ship lurched, the force prying you and Hongjoong away from the controls and into the pool of blood gathered on the floor.

Noises of discomfort and pain were all you could make as you braced yourself. The crimson lapped at your body and all you could do was stare in horror.

Your forearms burned from where they'd been scraped earlier and you went to assess the injuries. Rolling your sleeve back, you startled at the sight of discolored welts.

"Something's happening." You trembled, tugging your sleeves back further to see the rash spreading.

When you looked at Hongjoong, you could see welts on his face, your heart sinking. They weren't there just a second ago.

"Your face."

He reached up to feel around, paling instantly.

"It's the blood." You stated. "It has to be."

"What do you mean?"

"It's... it's not normal. It's changing us."

That revelation made you both nauseous.

"You will surrender!" The eel's distorted voice rang through your heads. "You belong to the ocean now."

Determined, you both got up, blood sloshing around your bodies as you returned to the control panel, working in tandem to ram the eel, casting aside your concerns in favor of killing the monster.

She was relentless and defiant, but so were the both of you. She rammed the submarine, but you remained undeterred, ignoring the increasingly rapid mutations taking over your bodies.

If you and Hongjoong were to die, you'd die fighting.

The control panel was nearly covered with blood and it was becoming difficult to operate. The eel's defiant words no longer echoed in your minds and that's when you released the throttle.

Hongjoong looked at you, his skin splotchy, parts of it grotesquely lumpy. His irises were red like the blood ocean. Sharp teeth akin to those of the eel had started to sprout from his skin along his cheek. You imagined you looked the same, becoming one with the ocean as she had said, but you didn't care. These were your final moments.

Without hesitation, Hongjoong grabbed your face, pulling you in for a kiss. It was unconventional and yet filled with longing. Tears stung your eyes, your lips molding with his, feeling every ounce of emotion being poured into the intimate action. You kissed him deeply, trying to memorize the shape of his lips and the feeling of them slotted with yours.

When you pulled away, you were crying. Even Hongjoong's eyes were wet. Outside, the eel lurked, the heavy sounds of her moving around like a knell that signaled the end.

She couldn't be defeated with a rickety submarine. Deep down, you both knew that, but you tried anyway. Fighting until the bitter end.

You clung to Hongjoong tightly, not caring about the blood or the unsettling mutations altering your bodies. You only cared about him.

"I love you."

"I love you too." He whispered as the final blow to the submarine was delivered.

A bright white light flashed, brilliant and blinding. A warm feeling seeped through your chest, flooding every part of your body. Peace. This was true peace. The intensity of it was overwhelming and indescribable. Contrary to what you believed, death was a warm embrace.

The gentle heat ebbed away just as quickly as it arrived and the heaviness of reality started to settle. You gasped sharply, eyes snapping open.

Stars. Flickering in the open space above.

"Y/n?"

You jolted upright, finding Hongjoong beside you, his body smudged with blood. The mutations were gone. You hastily examined yourself, feeling nothing but smooth skin and slick blood.

Before you was the crimson ocean, pieces of your submarine bobbing at its surface.

"We... we survived?" You breathed.

"Yeah."

"How?"

"I don't know." Hongjoong shook his head.

You searched your foggy memories, one otherworldly detail standing out from the rest.

"The light."

"What?"

"I think the light saved us. That bright beacon in the ocean. Whatever it was, it saved us."

Hongjoong blinked. "I don't understand."

"Neither do I, but we're alive and that's all that matters."

A low whirring thrummed in the distance and you lifted your gaze to find a spaceship approaching. As it neared, you made out the engravings COI on it.

"Do we let them take us again?" You asked Hongjoong. "What if they lock us up?"

"We served our penance." He said. "Besides, our submarine is busted to smithereens and we're still in one piece. We experienced something I’m sure no other convicts have. We have the upper hand.”

Hongjoong’s hand reached to grasp yours, squeezing softly.

“We’re going home.”

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