☆AM 01:27☾

But Na Jaemin definitely takes the cake for the King of Perfection. He’s got it all. From his looks, to his grades, to his personality. You’d be lying if you said you didn’t have a crush on him. Who wouldn’t? You and Jaemin have only known each other since the beginning of the school year, but you’ve both taken a liking to one another. You keep your feelings for Jaemin to yourself because he’s a great kid and you wouldn’t want to ruin the friendship you both are building together.

Speaking of Jaemin, he shows up with an English textbook. “I’m so tired from studying. I feel like my brain’s fried.” He says sadly as he takes a seat next to you, putting his head on your shoulder.

“I’ll take your mind off of it.” You assure him. Jaemin lifts his head off your shoulder and smiles at you before putting his arm around your shoulder. You feel the butterflies go crazy, but you ignore them.

As Jaemin puts his arm around you, you don’t feel Donghyuck’s gaze on you. He’s very annoyed with this kid who transferred from God knows where and is already making more progress with you than him.

“Dude, just talk to her already.” Mark says, resulting in Donghyuck shaking his head, taking his eyes off of you.

“I don’t like her, why would I talk to her?” That’s a lie, and Donghyuck knows it. But how could the Lee Donghyuck, proclaimed Bad Boy like a nobody girl like you?

“Yeah, like any of us believe that. We know you like her.” Jeno chuckles, earning a punch on the arm from Donghyuck. He brushes it off. “You better confess before someone else does.”

“Oh yeah, aren’t her and that transfer kid dating?” Mark asks, pointing towards Jaemin.

Donghyuck rolls his eyes before standing up to throw his lunch tray away. “They’re not dating. She doesn’t like him.”

“He definitely likes her. I don’t get why he doesn’t just tell her. Who would turn Donghyuck down?” Jeno shrugs at Mark’s statement and question.

Meanwhile, Donghyuck’s brain is somewhere else. There’s only one thing on his mind: Is Y/N dating that stupid transfer student, Jaemin? He keeps telling himself that he shouldn’t be worried about you, but he is. That kid has no right to come in and steal you away from him.

“She will be my girlfriend.” Donghyuck whispers to himself.

“Dude, that’s seriously creepy.” Mark says to his friend as the bell signaling the end of lunch rings. Donghyuck ignore’s him and the trio gets up, along with their followers, and begins to exit the cafeteria.

Donghyuck’s eyes travel over to where you and Jaemin are walking. He’s officially in a bad mood because you and Jaemin as a ‘thing’ is taking over his brain. “I hate him.”

“Who? Jaemin?” Jeno jokes, making both him and Mark laugh.

Mark slings his arm around Donghyuck’s shoulder. “There’s no reason to hate him. You’re the Lee Donghyuck. You can get any girl you want.” He reassures him.

Donghyuck nods. Mark’s right, he thinks to himself. I am the Lee Donghyuck. I’m the school’s most notorious bad boy. All girls have had a crush on him at one point, so why is he so worried about you not liking him back?

“Hyuck, homecoming’s coming up soon. Why don’t you ask her with like a sign, and shit. She’ll definitely say yes.” Jeno suggests as the three walk down the hall towards their seventh period classes.

Mark suddenly claps and cheers loudly at Jeno’s idea, causing you and Jaemin to look back. For a slight second, you and Donghyuck make eye contact. It doesn’t last long because Jaemin quickly says something, taking away your attention from Donghyuck.

Whatever Jaemin said is making Y/N laugh way too much. For a minute, Donghyuck swears he hears his name, and then the sound of yours and Jaemin’s laughter.

This will not do. Donghyuck sends daggers to the back of Jaemin’s head. He’s going to take what’s his—you—and he will destroy Na Jaemin along the way.

Jeno taps Donghyuck’s shoulder, bringing him back to reality. “Why are you staring at the wall like that? Come on, we’re already here, might as well actually go to class.” Instead of following Jeno into the classroom, Donghyuck makes his way towards the bathroom. Homecoming is two weeks away, so if he wants to make this plan happen, he has to move quick.

As he gets to the bathroom, he hears humming coming from inside. He walks in to see Na Jaemin washing his hands.

“Na Jaemin.” Donghyuck says loudly, catching Jaemin off guard.

Jaemin turns around to dry his hands with a smile. “That’s me. What can I do for you?”

Donghyuck rolls his eyes. This guy. “I need you to stay away from Y/N. You have no business with her.”

“Y/N? She’s one of my close friends. We’re always together, I can’t stay away.” Jaemin smiles sweetly at him.

Donghyuck puts his hand on his head, trying to calm himself down. Is this kid really that stupid? “Are you dumb? Just don’t question it! Stay away from Y/N.” He shouts.

As he finishes his sentence, the two boys hear a gasp come from the door. They turn to see Y/N’s number one, all time, ultimate best friend: Zhong Chenle.

“What about my Y/N? Why does Jaemin need to stay away from her? Why is Lee Donghyuck worried about her?” Chenle steps closer to Donghyuck with every question. If anyone knows Chenle, they know he’s pretty much scared of nothing (except haunted houses and spiders).

“H-hey, don’t come closer or you’ll regret it.” Donghyuck says, his voice unsure. He’s not scared of this kid hurting him—he’s afraid of him telling Y/N he likes her.

Chenle snickers, crossing his arms and giving Donghyuck a mean glare. He takes a brave step towards the older boy. “Excuse me? Did I just overhear you talking about my best friend?” He raises his hand in a fist, preparing to hit Donghyuck if he has to. “Now tell me what you were talking about before I beat it out of you.”

Donghyuck involuntarily flinches violently away from Chenle as Jaemin watches on in amused fascination.

“F-fine.” Donghyuck shouts. He stands up and straightens his jacket up as he looks at Y/N’s best friend. He clears his throat. “I-i—he...J-Jaemin’s threatening my chances with Y/N.” He says defensively.

Chenle sighs, clicking his tongue in disapproval. “Silly Donghyuck. Jaemin has nothing to do with that. It’s all you.”

“What?”

Chenle walks up next to Donghyuck and slings his arm casually around the older male’s shoulders. “I need to make sure you actually like her and see if you’re just trying to play with her emotions or not.” Chenle explains. He turns to look right at Donghyuck. “And if you’re just trying to mess with her, you will feel my wrath.”

Donghyuck gulps at the malicious smile on the younger boys face. For such an innocent looking kid, he sure can be scary.

“Chenle, lay off of the poor guy. You’re scaring him.” Jaemin gently pulls Chenle off of Donghyuck. He’d be lying if he said he didn’t find this amusing though.

“H-he is not scaring me.” Donghyuck scoffs defensively.

“Sure...” Jaemin chuckles.

“I’m Lee Donghyuck. I’m not scared of anything, okay?”

Ignoring that, Chenle speaks up. “So tell me. Do you really like her or are you just trying to make her another one of your conquests?”

“I-I think I like her.” Donghyuck admits. “She makes me feel weird, nervous and tingly.” Chenle looks at him for a moment before sighing.

“You’re such a pervert. I’ll answer your questions about her. Don’t think I’m gonna help you though. You’re on your own for that part, buddy.”

“What? Really?” Donghyuck asks, pleasantly surprised. Chenle nods, looking at his nails. “What’s her favorite color?” He asks.

Chenle stares at Donghyuck for a moment. He can’t be serious, right? “What the—I literally said I would answer any questions you have about her and this is what you ask? What her favorite color is?” Chenle yells exasperatedly, beginning to walk out of the restroom. “I give up. You’re on your own.”

“No! Wait!” Donghyuck whines, pulling Chenle’s arm desperately. “D-does she like him?” He gestures towards Jaemin, who waves as he exits the bathroom.

Chenle sighs before patting Donghyuck’s shoulder. “She’s definitely waiting in line for the love rollercoaster. He just might like her too, so if you’re going to do something, act quickly.” He explains before beginning to walk out. “I got out of class to get a drink from the water fountain and I’ve been missing for like seven minutes. If I get in trouble, I’m blaming you, Donghyuck.”

“Y-you better not tell anyone about this.” Donghyuck stutters out. 

As Chenle leaves, Donghyuck runs into the last stall and sits on the floor. He pulls out his phone and immediately starts writing his plan.

This has to work or else Donghyuck will be devastated.

☯︎

It’s been two days since Donghyuck’s bathroom encounter with Jaemin and Chenle. Donghyuck has had lots of time to think about how he should ask Y/N to homecoming. He’s prepared everything and as soon as the bell signaling lunch rings, it’s go time.

“Dude, stop being nervous. It’ll be fine.” Mark chuckles, hitting Donghyuck upside his head. 

Donghyuck smacks Mark’s hand away and tries to fix his hair. “I am not nervous, I’m Donghyuck. Now leave me alone.” 

“Just remember, confidence is the key to success.” Mark declares firmly, with his fist in the air.

Suddenly, the three of them hear a scoff coming from the left of them and then Chenle passing them. “The key to success? Who are you? DJ Khaled?” He rolls his eyes. “Let me see your sign.” He demands, pointing to the rolled up poster board in Donghyuck’s hands. 

Donghyuck slowly unrolls it before holding it up for Chenle to see. Chenle’s eyes scan the paper before he throws his head back in laughter. 

Donghyuck looks at the sign and furrows his brows. Now, he’s worried.”What? What’s wrong with it?”

“What do you mean what’s wrong with it?” Donghyuck looks at his poster. I guess it is a little plain. His poster read ‘Y/N, Come to HOCO w/ Me!’ He signs before throwing the paper on the ground. “She’s never gonna like me back!” 

Chenle rolls his eyes and reaches into his bookbag. “I made a backup, because for some reason, I new you were going to mess up!” He flashes an annoyed, but pleased with himself smile at the older boy. 

“Hey, who are you? He’s the Lee Donghyuck! Don’t talk to him like--” Mark stands up and steps towards Chenle. Chenle stares at Mark with an unamused expression. 

Donghyuck pushes Mark away from Chenle, quicker than you can stay absolutelyfullycapable. “Dude, stop! He’s like, scary.” He whispers. Jeno and Mark look at each other, both highly confused, but they just shrug.

Chenle glares at Mark and Jeno before handing Donghyuck the poster. “Here.” As he passes the posterboard over, the trio sees visible trails of glitter falling from it. The poster unrolls, and Lee Donghyuck is more than amazed. The poster reads:

‘I’m Lee Donghyuck and I really like you, if you come to hoco with me, I’ll stop being a douche!’

“This is,” Donghyuck breathes out. “The best thing I’ve ever laid my eyes on--I mean, besides Y/N--but this is great! How long did it take you to come up with this?” 

“Like two minutes.” Chenle says, casually going through his phone as they approach the cafeteria. The bell rings, and the students begin pouring out of the classrooms, ready to chill with their friends.

Usually, Donghyuck is not nervous in front of crowds. But today is different. He’s actually afraid of being rejected by you. 

Meanwhile, you’re clueless as to what’s about to happen--and so is Jaemin. So when you hear the cafeteria errupt into cheers and screams, you’re confused. But when you feel a tap on your shoulder, you turn to see a very nervous looking Lee Donghyuck holding a poster. Confused you ask if it’s for you, to which he nods, shyly. 

This is bad. You think to yourself. He looks way too serious to be playing a prank on you.

Donghyuck takes a deep breath before walking closer to you. “Y/N! I like you and I want to go to homecoming with you! Would you please go with me?” Even though you don’t necessarily like Donghyuck, you’re not heartless. He took time out of his life to do all of this and ask you to homecoming. You’re not going to harshly decline his request in front of a good chunk of the student body.

Beside you, Jaemin turns to Donghyuck as well. “I already asked her. We’re going together. Sorry, man.” He sends an apologetic smile to Donghyuck.

The look on Donghyuck’s face is enough to bring the cafeteria to silence. “I-I’m sorry, Donghyuck.” You apologize, embarrassed at all the attention on you. From how you perceive him, you expect him to get angry and start a fight with Jaemin. Normally, he might, but since you’re here and you already hate his guts, Donghyuck decides against it.

“I-I, Y/N-it’s,” He stutters out, ears red as ever. “It’s okay.” Flustered out of his mind, Donghyuck sets the sign by Chenle, who’s sat next to you, and hastily walks out of the cafeteria.

Why do I feel this way? Did I just get rejected? His mind is all over the place. As he exits the cafeteria, he can feel his heart racing—it’s loud and beating quite fast. Donghyuck stops right as he enters the bathroom. He places his hands on his knees and tries to catch his breath and slow down his heart rate. Donghyuck is starting to feel even weirder—if that’s even possible. His palms are becoming even more clamy than before, his heart is still beating faster than the average rate, and he feels a lump forming in his throat.

Lee Donghyuck doesn’t cry! He tells himself. Why would he cry over you when he could get any other girl?

Because he really does like you—more than he originally thought.

Donghyuck clears his throat and stands up with his back facing the mirror. There’s no way he could look at himself in this state.

“You’re so stupid, Donghyuck!” He yells at himself, punching the wall. First off—mistake. His tears threaten to fall, but Lee Donghyuck has been trained over the years to not show when he’s feeling emotionally overwhelmed because ‘men aren’t supposed to display how they feel’. He’s been through worse and he’s kept it together. Why is it so hard for him to stay put together now?

Donghyuck is forced to pull it together when he hears someone enter the bathroom behind him. He turns away and wipes his eyes, so even if he had tears, they weren’t noticeable.

“Are you okay?” It was Chenle. He feels bad, because he feels like it’s partially his fault for te situation. If he had known that Jaemin asked Y/N, he would have never let Donghyuck embarrass himself like that. But not even Chenle knew Jaemin asked her.

Donghyuck coughs loudly to clear his throat. “Of course I’m okay, I’m Lee Donghyuck. I don’t get my feelings hurt by pretty boys who are smart, nice, have great personalities, and steal the one thing I actually want, away from me.” He shakes his head, keeping his face out of Chenle’s view. “Why did you let me go out there and embarrass myself?” Donghyuck questions in a hushed voice.

Chenle feels really bad right now, but at the same time, he thinks that maybe Donghyuck has learned a lesson. “To be fair, I had no idea that Jaemin asked her.” He puts his hand on Donghyuck’s shoulder. “But I think you needed a taste of your own medicine for once. This is how you make so many girls feel all the time. At least Y/N wasn’t rude to you like you are to the people who confess to you.”

Donghyuck hates it, but Chenle’s right. He knows he’s a jerk, but he never really stopped and thought about how others felt from his actions. “I don’t want to feel like this again.”

“If you’re still serious about Y/N, I have an idea. The least I can do is help you guys become friends.” Chenle says to him. Donghyuck spins to face the younger boy, nodding, signaling him to continue.

Chenle explains his plan, and halfway through their last period, they’ve finished planning. “I don’t know how to thank you.” Donghyuck sends a genuine smile to Chenle, who chuckles softly.

“Just be good to Y/N. Seeing her happy is enough for me.”

Soon enough, the end of the school day approaches, the weekend is officially here, and Operation Take-What’s-Mine begins.

☯︎

“So when were you going to tell me that Jaemin asked you to homecoming?” Chenle questions, slamming him lemon water on the table. Every Friday after school, you and Chenle go to the same cafe and get food, since the cafeteria food isn’t that good. You knew something was wrong with Chenle when he ordered the lemon water instead of his usual chocolate milk. He only orders a water when he’s feeling mature, but a water with lemon? You knew something was on his mind.

You sigh. “Chenle, I didn’t even know we were going together until he said that to Donghyuck.” You explain to your best friend. 

“What do you mean you didn’t know?” 

“He never asked me. When I said something to him after the whole lunch situation, he just said that he knew I didn’t like Donghyuck and he didn’t want me to go with him out of guilt.” You tell him. Chenle is shocked, but quickly grins widely.

“This is great news!” He cheers. “Excuse me, can I get a chocolate milk?” He shouts to a waiter passing by. 

You squint at him. Why is this good news? “Why are you so happy? He’s not even going with me because he likes me.” 

Chenle laughs at your sad expression. You’re seriously getting annoyed with him laughing in your face about a boy not liking you. “Y/N, I’m about to say something to you I never thought I’d say in a million years,” He begins. “I think you should get to know Donghyuck as well. See who’s better for you, Jaemin or Donghyuck.”

You scoff at him. “Chenle!”

“Y/N!” Chenle shouts back. “Don’t tell him I told you, but this kid has a serious crush on you! I went to talk to him after he walked out of the cafeteria today. I think he almost cried.” You’re honestly speechless. “He’s changed recently. He’s a lot nicer now than he was before.”

You sigh. “It’s not like I’ll be mean to him. Of course I’ll be decent to him.”

“Okay, great. Let’s go to that party tonight then.” Chenle smiles, clapping happily like a seal.

“Party? You?” You ask, shocked. “You at a party? Chenle, you don’t even know what the word party means.”

“Actually, I threw the littest party in the history of the 6th grade so... check your facts, honey.” Chenle sasses back. “We’re going tonight and there’s nothing you can do to change that.”

You sigh again. Once Chenle gets like this, there’s no changing his mind. “Fine. I’ll go to the stupid party will you, but you owe me.”

Chenle claps, happily. The waiter brings his chocolate milk and the two of you continue talking, but about other topics.

Meanwhile, Donghyuck is flipping out. Chenle texted him saying that you agreed to go to Jeno’s party and now Donghyuck is rummaging through his closet trying to find some presentable clothes.

“If I’m being honest--” Mark begins, but Donghyuck cuts him off.

“If you’re being honest, you think she won’t care about what I’m wearing. Yeah, yeah. Well I care about it. I have to look good.” 

He states. Mark raises his hands in defense. “I was just trying to help. Chill.”

Donghyuck sighs. “I-I know.” he runs his hand through his hair. “This is an actual chance to impress her, and I don’t want to screw it up.”

“I know, man. I think she’ll really like the real you.” He tells his younger friend. Donghyuck and Mark bro hug before he pulls out a random shirt from Donghyuck’s dresser. “This looks nice.” And that’s what Donghyuck goes with. A lavender button up, to show Y/N his classy yet casual side. 

Donghyuck is ready to prove to Y/N just how much he actually likes her. His and Chenle’s plan should work out perfectly. 

- 

Jeno’s family isn’t necessarily ‘loaded’, but they do have a nice sized house. You’re stunned as you and Chenle pull up to the house. “There’s already so many people here.” You say as you and Chenle step out of the uber you guys took to the party. Chenle gives the driver money and gets out as well.

“Yeah, it’s Lee Jeno’s party we’re talking about. Of course there’s a lot of people.” Chenle links his arm with yours. “No doing illegal things under any circumstances!” He demands.

“That’s not what’s on my mind anyways.” You mumble as you guys walk through the back.

“Hey, Y/N--OH MY GOD! Is that Zhong Chenle at a party?” Xuxi yells across the yard. He’s standing at the back door to the house, and waves you guys over. But before you can follow Chenle over to Xuxi, you feel a tug on your arm. 

As Chenle leaves your side, you turn to see the one and only Donghyuck standing in front of you. 

“H-hey.” He stutters out with a small, nervous smile on his face. 

“Hey, Donghyuck.” You respond. It feels kind of awkward at first, but that’s expected. 

“Do you wanna go inside? It’s kind of chilly out here.” He suggests, gesturing for you to go in front. You nod and walk towards the door. “You look really pretty, by the way.” He compliments you, quietly.

You feel your cheeks become heated. “Thanks. You too.” You say, before realizing your mistake. “I mean, you look handsome!” 

Donghyuck chuckles as he pushes the door open for you. “It’s okay, I know what you meant.” As you two enter the house, you immediately see Chenle on the table with a red solo cup in his hand. 

“That better be non-alcoholic!” You point at him. 

He looks at you incredulously. “Y/N, I’m a junior in high school! Let me live and mind your own business!” 

You roll your eyes before you see Xuxi waving his arms, trying to grab your attention. He mouths the words ‘it’s water’ and you laugh at your dumb best friend. You smile a little to yourself before Donghyuck grabs your attention again.

“Hey, uh, wanna go down to the basement?” He asks you a little awkwardly, pointing his thumb over his shoulder.

You eye him incredulously. “The basement? What the hell? No.”

Donghyuck panics a little. “N-no, I didn’t mean for it to sound weird like that. The basement is quieter and we’d probably be able to talk down there.” He explains in a rush. You nod.

“Alright, I guess we can.” You shrug, beginning to follow him towards the stairs.

“You know, it’s good that we’re going down here.” Donghyuck starts telling you over his shoulder. “Nobody will disturb us. We kind of have this little pact where if we’re seen taking a girl into the basement, nobody will come down and bother us.” He smiles as a feeling of dread begins washing over you.

The two of you reach the door leading to the basement stairs only to see a very sketchy, dark stairway. “Um, Donghyuck? I don’t know if I want to come down here anymore...”

“Don’t be silly, Y/N, it’ll be fine.” He grabs your wrist, forcing you down the stairs along with him. You prepare to run and scream when you notice that the basement isn’t, in fact, creepy. It’s actually really nice. “Oh, awesome. Mario Kart’s up! Do you like Mario Kart?”

You look at Donghyuck with a strange expression on your face. “U-uh, yeah. I like Mario Kart.” You nod slowly.

“Awesome. Wanna play? I call Baby Mario.” Donghyuck races to the plush-looking couch and quickly grabs one of the two controllers laying on it. You carefully walk over and sit next to him, grabbing the last controller and watching as he sets up a 2-player game for the both of you.

You each select your characters--him going with Baby Mario and you going with Baby Peach--and the game begins. “Y/N, I like you and I want you to have an actual good impression of me but...” Donghyuck turns to face you, giving you a sympathetic look. “But you're about to get destroyed right now.”

You scoff, tightening your grip on your controller. “Fine. Let’s battle, DongYUCK.” You glare at him.

Donghyuck frowns at that. “Am I really that disgusting?”

You roll your eyes. “Let’s just play.” And you do. The two of you race through all three laps of the chosen level and, to your dismay, you’re left in twelfth place spinning out of control across the finish line due to one of Donghyuck’s sneaky bananas.

“Aren’t you supposed to, I don’t know, let your date win in these types of games?” You ask him, a little irked that he hadn’t let you win.

“Yeah.” Donghyuck nods. “You let me win.” He grins happily at you. You roll your eyes, wanting to be mad, but it’s hard to pretend to be angry when he’s giving you such a sweet look.

“Whatever.” You snicker.

Donghyuck sets his controller down and moves closer to you on the couch, a slight blush appearing on his face. “Wait, you said this was a date.” 

“I mean, isn’t that what it is?” You ask, placing your controller next to his. 

“If you want it to be.” Donghyuck looks anywhere but you.

“You’re acting like this is a date.” You chuckle. 

Donghyuck clears his throat. “Uh, yeah. This is a date, Y/N.” He readjusts his jacket and turns to face you. “You want to get some food? Jeno ordered like, thirty pizzas.” You nod, with a small smile. The two of you get up and begin to walk up the basement stairs. He pushes the door open and the both of you exit. 

“I don’t wanna lose you in the crowd, stay close.” Donghyuck tells you. You decide to grab his hand so you don’t get lost. When you feel Donghyuck’s hand tense up and see him look back at you with wide eyes, you avert your gaze. This is just so you don’t get lost. It’s not like you want to hold his hand or anything.

The two of you make it to the kitchen where Donghyuck goes to fetch you guys some water while you get both of you some pizza. You stand there, staring at the make-your-own-pizza setup, which you think is weird because who sets up something like this at a house party? You dismiss that thought and begin putting ingredients on the pizzas when Donghyuck sneaks up to your side.

“What are you doing?” He asks you, making you jump a little.

“What does it look like? I’m making your food.” You roll your eyes a little, but Donghyuck takes the plate form your hands and throws it in the trash. “What the hell?”

“Never take ingredients from the bowls.” Donghyuck shakes his head.

“Then where am I supposed to get the ingredients from, huh?”

“You have to look under the table for the fresh stuff.” He says, lifting the table cloth to reveal better looking food.

“How would I have possibly known that? It’s not like I’ve ever been here before.” You say as you reach for another plate. You put the (safe) ingredients on both yours and Donghyuck’s pizzas and follow him to what looks to be the dining room, but it has a couch?

“Jeno pulls the couch in here because he doesn’t like people sitting at his dining room table.” Donghyuck explains as he leads you over to it. It doesn’t make a lot of sense, because who’s going to follow that rule at a house party? 

The couch is pretty crowded, but he is the Lee Donghyuck, so it doesn’t take that long for people to leave when they seem him approaching. You two take a seat and begin to eat your pizzas. 

 “Wow, you put together some decent tasting pizzas.” Donghyuck says, astonished. “I’m shocked, to say the least.”

You roll your eyes. That’s not even a compliment. You watch as Donghyuck takes another bite. “Wow, you’re a messy eater.” 

“What?” You can just barely understand what he’s saying as he speaks with a mouth full of food. 

“I said,” You grab a napkin from underneath your plate. “You’re eating so carelessly. There’s food all around your mouth.” Before you can even think, you’re reaching over to wipe the pizza sauce off of Donghyuck’s face.

Donghyuck is obviously taken by surprise as you clean him up. And he’s not the only one.

“Y-Y/N? What are you doing?” Both you and Donghyuck turn to see Na Jaemin staring at you with wide eyes. “Why’re you with him?” He takes a step closer to you guys.

“Jaemin?” You quickly move your hand away from Donghyuck’s face. “What are you doing here?” You question.

“No, Y/N, answer my question. What are you doing here with Donghyuck?” The look in Jaemin’s eyes are sharp and menacing as he glares at Donghyuck before looking back to you.

You scoff a little. “Why are you being so rude? I’m not obligated to tell you anything.” 

Jaemin takes a deep breath. “I-I just wanna know why you’re here with him. I thought we had something.” 

“What?” You stand up. “Jaemin, two people can’t be together if it’s not discussed.” 

By now, an audience was starting to form. “I thought it was obvious, Y/N! I thought you understood the signs I was giving you!” Jaemin raises his voice, frustrated. “And the homecoming thing? Wasn’t that enough for you?” 

“That’s not how any of that works. You can’t just assume, Jaemin.” You respond, quietly. You feel guilty, but upset at the same time, and that’s evident to Jaemin, Donghyuck and everyone else watching. “I think I wanna leave.” You say to Donghyuck. You begin to walk out of the house, Donghyuck following close behind. 

“Y/N, wait.” Jaemin calls after you. He attempts to grab onto your wrist, but he’s forcibly pushed away by Donghyuck.

“Dude, hands off.” Donghyuck warns. Jaemin glares at him before looking to you again.

“Y/N... are we at least still going to homecoming together?” The sadness in Jaemin’s voice makes you turn around to face him, only to see Donghyuck attempting to manhandle him.

“She doesn’t want to talk to you. Just go away.”

“Donghyuck, it’s fine.” You sigh, turning to Jaemin. “At this point... I don’t think it would be a good idea for us to go together.”

With that, you walk away, Donghyuck by your side as you walk down the street and away from Jeno’s party. It’s silent until Donghyuck elbows you not-so-gently. “I know I should have said something earlier, but my car’s in the opposite direction.” He chuckles awkwardly.

You sigh, shaking your head. “You’re an idiot.” The two of you turn around and walk to his car. 

You and Donghyuck reach his car. He opens the passenger side door for you before jogging to the drivers seat and starting the car. “Where do you want to go?” 

-

“What are we doing here?” You ask in confusion as Donghyuck parks on the side of the street. What the hell are you guys doing in this rich ass neighborhood? Homeboy ignores you. He walks up to a very nice looking house. Nicer than Jeno’s. “Donghyuck! Are you trying to break in?” You question panickedly. You seriously do not want to catch a case, especially before you finish high school.

“We have to sneak to the back and climb up the lattice.” Donghyuck says calmy, ignoring you once again. He leads you towards a bush, covering part of the fence. He squats and holds back part of the bush, revealing a hole leading to the backyard. “Ladies first.” He smiles.

“What the hell, Donghyuck! I’m not helping you break into a house!” You shout.

Donghyuck stands up hastily and shushes you. “I’m not breaking into any houses!” He whisper yells. “We have to sneak in because if my brother wakes up, I’m dead.” He explains.

You freeze. “Wait... you live here?” You ask in disbelief. Donghyuck nods, slightly embarrassed. “Wow, that makes no sense.”

Donghyuck gestures for you to crawl through the hole--which you do--and quickly comes in behind you. He then pushes past you and begins climbing up the back of the house, only to open a window and scurry back down. “You go in first. Just in case you fall, I’ll be here to catch you.”

You scoff. “What makes you think I’d fall? I actually won the Rock Climbing Relays in fourth grade.” You inform him, a matter-of-factly.

“Uh, whatever. Just climb.” He rolls his eyes. You start your journey up the lattice, and to be honest, it’s kind of scary. “Don’t worry, I’m right behind you.”

“Wow, that makes me feel so much better.” You say, sarcasm dripping from your voice. 

After what seems like forever, you reach the window and pull yourself through. You glance outside to see Donghyuck almost to the top. You reach your arms out and he gladly takes a hold of them. You help him through, and once you’re both finally in, you take a look around. It’s a long, dark corridor with pictures lining the walls. In the majority of the pictures, you see Donghyuck, an older boy, who you assume is his brother, and a lady, who you can definitely tell is his mother. 

“Follow me, my room’s this way.” Donghyuck takes your hand and gently pulls you down the hall. His room is at the end of the hall, and when you enter, you’re shocked, to say the least. “So, this is the crib.” He chuckles, awkwardly. 

Donghyuck has polaroids all over his room and fairy lights. It’s definitely not what you though Lee Donghyuck’s bedroom would look like. “Can I look at these?” You ask as you pick up a photo album. 

“Oh, uh, I guess. It’s from, like a long time ago. It’s embarrassing.” Donghyuck’s face becomes red. You open the photos and you can kind of understand why he would be embarrassed--because half the pictures aren’t old, and look to be from the past school year. 

“You were so cute!” You gasp as you point to a baby picture of him. 

“I still am.” Donghyuck jokes. You laugh, but silently agree with him. The kid is pretty cute and the both of you know it.

After looking through the pictures, conversation flows naturally between the two of you. You talk about everything, answer questions about yourselves, but there’s one thing on your mind that you want to ask him about. “Donghyuck?” You say his name.

“Y/N?” He smiles at you. 

“I like this side of you,” You begin. “Why don’t you show this side at school? Why do you act like such a jerk?” 

Donghyuck knew this was coming. And to be honest, he doesn’t really have an excuse for his disrespectful behavior. “I... I don’t know.” He admits. You tilt your head in confusion, but allow him to continue. “I guess I like the attention I get.”

“From the girls?”

“I guess.” Donghyuck blushes, but begins to ask you another question, but this time he’s completely serious. “What do you see in Na Jaemin?”

“W-what?” You’re taken off guard. Is it really that obvious that you take some interest in Jaemin?

Donghyuck chuckles, but it doesn’t reach his eyes. “I’m serious, Y/N. What does he have that I don’t?” He gazes up at you. “What’s so good about him?” 

You ponder on his questions for a few seconds. “Jaemin is just... You’re a little...” You shift at the tension. “You guys are too different to compare.” 

“Just say what you want Y/N. I won’t get offended, if that’s what you’re thinking.” 

You sigh. “Well, to be honest,” You clear your throat. “Jaemin is like every little girl’s dream boy. He’s smart, athletic, tall, and--boy--is he handsome.” 

Donghyuck rolls his eyes, but lets you continue.

“But you, Donghyuck--you’re an interesting character. At first, I thought you were just a douche bag, but you seem to be so much more than that!” You laugh at the thought. It’s only been one night, but you feel like you could definitely get used to the real Donghyuck.

“I hope that’s a good thing,” Donghyuck chuckles, leaning against his headboard. “Because I really like you, Y/N.” You blush, once again and stay quiet, unsure of what to say.

You feel the bed move and you soon see Donghyuck’s smiling face. “It’s getting pretty late. Let’s get you home.” With that, he gets up and walks out of his bedroom, leaving you flustered. You quickly follow him out and exit his house the same way you came in. Your night with Donghyuck definitely went better than expected.

☯︎

The day of homecoming actually came very quickly. But, surprisingly, the only people you have spoken with were Chenle, Jisung, and Donghyuck. After the party at Jeno’s, you and Donghyuck formed a good friendship. Your relationship with Jaemin on the other hand, is still in shambles. 

“I’m sure he’s sorry. I mean, it’s just not like him to have no remorse.” Chenle says to you as the two of you walk to the drugstore. You needed to get a few last minute things to prepare for homecoming, and Chenle decided to tag along.

You sigh. “I know, I just--I don’t want this to ruin our friendship for good.” You enter the store and head straight to the makeup section, because you were definitely not forgetting fake eyelashes for the second year in a row. 

“Y/N, this is Na Jaemin we’re talking about. Trust me when when I say that everything will turn out okay.” Chenle pats your shoulder, reassuringly. “Now, why did you need these things again?” He points to the eyelashes.

“Because I want them. Now please, can you help me pick the best ones?” You ask your best friend. Chenle chuckles and nods. 

As you and Chenle get the last minute things you need from the drugstore, you hear a very familiar voice come from the aisle over.

“I think a mask with charcoal would be the best to use before homecoming. Don’t you agree?” 

You glance at Chenle, but you see him already walking around the corner. “Jaemin! What’s up? I haven’t seen you in a while.” Jaemin? You internally panic. Chenle won’t bring you into the conversation, right?

As Chenle disappears from your view, you try to quietly tiptoe in the opposite direction. Honestly, you could have been successful if it wasn’t for your best friend’s big mouth.

“Actually, I came here with Y/N. She’s right over here.” You cringe as you hear Chenle’s words. What a friend.

You slowly turn back around to see the person you’ve been avoiding: Na Jaemin.

“H-hey, Jaemin. What’s crackalackin’?” You chuckle awkwardly.

Jaemin sends a soft smile your way. “Long time no see, Y/N. How’ve you been?” 

“I’m good, and you?” You keep up the basic, yet awkward conversation, hoping it will end soon.

“I’m great.” Jaemin’s smile never leaves his face. “How’s Donghyuck? Are you guys dating?”

Your eyes dart around at anything but Jaemin’s face. Luckily for you though, Chenle chimes in. “Her and Donghyuck definitely are not dating.” He says sassily. “They’re just talk--” You hurriedly slap a hand over Chenle’s mouth, laughing nervously.

“We’re just friends.” You tell Jaemin, feeling a bit bashful as he looks at you with an expression that tells you he doesn’t believe you.

“So, um... are you still mad at me?” Jaemin asks, changing the subject.

“Of course I’m not.” You feel the tension in your shoulders disappear. “I’m just as much in the wrong as you are.”

“Still, I feel like I caused all this.” Jaemin frowns slightly. “I’m really sorry, Y/N. I just want to go back to normal.”

You smile at that. “Then let’s go back to how things were before. It sucks not being able to hang out with you like we used to.” Jaemin’s expression lights up. “Friends?”

“Friends.” Jaemin takes your extended hand and shakes it.

“I’m so happy that I have someone to hang out with besides Chenle now.” You chuckle. Jaemin shares your sudden happiness.

“Jaems? Jaems, where are you?” A very familiar voice calls out.

“Jaems?”  Chenle scoffs. “Don’t tell me whoever that is is looking for you.” He crosses his arms as Jaemin’s face suddenly reddens. Suddenly, Lee Jeno’s head pops out from around the corner.

“Jeno?” You ask, confused. Jeno’s expression looks just about as shocked as your voice. 

“Oh, Y/N, hey.” Jeno greets, awkwardly. “Jaems--I mean, Jaemin, I’m ready to leave when you are.” He coughs out in a quiet voice. 

You glance over at Chenle who is already looking at you in disbelief. Na Jaemin and Lee Jeno? Together? Strange.

“When did you two become friends?” Chenle raises an eyebrow at the pair in front of you two.

“Funny story actually,” Jaemin chuckles, slinging an arm around an uncomfortable Jeno. “After mine and Y/N’s fight, I got really upset and kind of made a scene, but Jeno calmed me down and helped me get home safely.” He explains.

You nod, still surprised at the match. Although the duo is quite strange, your mind continues to wander back to your argument with Jaemin. He looks at you with an apologetic expression. “Y/N, I really want to say sorry for what happened at the party,” He says. “I just didn’t want Donghyuck to hurt you. But I see that he’s been pretty good to you and if you’re happy, I’m happy.”

You hug Jaemin. “Jae, I’m sorry too. Can we just forget everything that happened and be best friends again?” You ask.

Chenle coughs. “Close friends. I’m the best friend, don’t forget.”

Jaemin ignores him as he hugs you back. “Of course, Y/N. I missed you.”

You feel so much better. You honestly thought you would spend your homecoming night upset about your broken friendship, but luckily you made up with Jaemin.

“Thank god you guys fixed that, I was getting stressed.” Chenle flips his hair. You chuckle before exchanging goodbyes. 

“See you guys tonight.” You waves to Jeno and Jaemin. 

so let’s start with how you and Tae came to be

you met Taeyong at a concert two years ago

One of your friends bought you a ticket to a summer festival for your birthday

since you always spoke about how much you wanted to experience one

at first, you were worried about going to a crowded concert alone

because

let’s be honest

you were scared to go to the movies by yourself

how could you go to a whole day long festival alone?

but for some reason as soon as you got there

you felt comfortable

you stood in the crazy long line

and watched the people around you

laugh and talk with their friends

you kind of wished you had someone to talk to as well

well this is where ur boi Taeyong comes in

its like he read your mind

because as you stood there thinking about how lonely you must look,

he was wondering how he should approach you

he was in line directly behind you and tbh he thought you were pretty cute

but you were by yourself and for some reason that made him sad

but happy at the same time bc he was alone too

so after thinking about it for wayyyy too long

he just taps your shoulder on impulse

“hey i’m taeyong. are you here alone? i’m here alone too.”

and that’s where it started for you guys

you spent that whole day together and even ended up swapping phone numbers

you thought Taeyong was so sweet and nice

and he was

but from the beginning

he definitely had a softer side for you and you only

so you guys began hanging out when ever you both were free

and it got to the point where you guys would adjust your schedules just so you could find time to be together

and of course, you both started developing feelings for each other

Taeyong was the first to confess his feelings

it was kind of unexpected 

you guys had planned a day at the board walk

there were boats you could rent so you and Taeyong decided to try them out

so here you guys were

in the middle of this lake

just chillin in a boat

when out of nowhere, Taeyong just says it

“y/n, i like you.”

you were shocked, to say the least bc

you never thought someone like Taeyong would actually like you back

but after he further explained his feelings, you were beyond ecstatic

Taeyong asked you to be his 

and bam

you guys were together

throughout your relationship with Taeyong, you’ve noticed the little things that irritate him, make him smile, make him upset

all his little quirks 

and you have come to be quite good at reading his emotions

even when he looks like he’s happy, he could be angry

when he looks upset, he could actually be relieved of something

basically, you have just come to know him like the back of your hand

sooo now that we’ve explained all of that, let’s get to present time

you and Taeyong have been together for a little over a year now at this point

before you guys started even dating, he met your friends

so it was normal for both you and Taeyong to show up to your friend’s parties

you two are currently on your way to one of your best friends bday parties

your best friend Johnny literally rented out a whole ass bdubs just to throw his birthday party

this kid is extra

but you and Taeyong decide to walk from your place, since it’s not that far from the restaurant

it’s a little chilly outside, even with Taeyong’s coat around your shoulders

“are you still cold?” Taeyong asks you 

you nod

Taeyong puts his arm around you, trying to warm you up more

you’re pretty happy in your relationship right now

Taeyong is even more of a gentleman than before

he’s perfect in your eyes

and you’re perfect in his

all you’ve been is good to him 

and best believe that he shows you his appreciation

whenever Taeyong is going through a rough time, whether it’s with his family or he’s just having a bad day

you are always there for him

and he honestly feels like he is the luckiest man on the planet because he has you

Taeyong glances down at you as you guys reach the restaurant

he thinks you look great tonight

as he pulls open the door for you, he smiles to himself

he walks in behind you and brings you closer to him

“let’s go find Johnny.” you tell him as you grab his hand

Johnny’s party was packed 

it’s no surprise tho, because he’s a social butterfly who just love, love, loves meeting new peeps

you and Tae squeeze through people, trying to look for Johnny 

even though it’s making you lowkey claustrophobic you see so many friends you haven’t seen in a while 

so it’s nice

after some more maneuvering you guys spot Johnny 

but before you can get to him you and Taeyong hear your name 

”Y/N!” 

you turn to see the one and only Wong Yukhei

your first love 

”Yukhei!” you yell back as you spin to hug him 

Taeyong follows close behind you, eyeing Yukhei 

Tae knows exactly who Yukhei is 

before you and Tae began dating, he had seen the pictures of you two on your instagram

he didn’t like him for the simple fact that he once had you 

 “How are you? It’s been so long! You look amazing!” Yukhei compliments 

as you two chat, it feels as if Taeyong isn’t there

he watches you and Yukhei talk 

he can just feel the anger rise within him 

Taeyong pushes himself next to you, making his presence obvious to Yukhei (as if it wasn’t before but ok yongie)

”oh, Yukhei! this is Taeyong.” you introduce him 

”y/n’s boyfriend.” Taeyong adds, glaring at Yukhei 

”oh, hello. i’m Yukhei.” he says awkwardly 

Yukhei holds his hand out for Taeyong to shake

but what does Tae do? 

he stares at his hand, not even flinching 

you nudge him, beginning to feel embarrassed by his behavior 

Yukhei awkwardly retracts his hand 

“well, i guess i’ll see you around, y/n.”

you nod before waving bye to him 

as you watch Yukhei walk away, you feel Yong grab your arm 

you shake him off bc ur seriously annoyed and embarrassed that he acted like that to Yukhei, who has always been nothing but nice 

before you can walk away Taeyong grabs you again

“where are you going y/n?” Taeyong is hot on your heels as you continue trying to walk away from him towards Johnny

Johnny sees you two and smiles

but of course as soon as he sees the expression on your face, his smile fades

“what’s wrong guys?”

instead of you telling him the real reasons you look annoyed,

ur bf decides to tell him what he saw

“that Yukhei kid, her ex? yeah he was getting too close to her.”

yeah, he really said that

“are you serious?” you say to Taeyong

Taeyong doesn’t see why you’re so mad

but the fact that you’re angry is making him angry

he was only trying to protect your relationship

he just couldn’t lose you to someone else--especially your ex and first love

because you know what they say

you never really forget your first love

but Taeyong wants to make you forget him

he wishes you two could have met earlier so he could have been your first love

it’s not fair

but since he has you now, he’ll love you more and better than Yukhei ever could have

you roll your eyes and begin to move towards Johnny 

“he’s acting rude and jealous for no reason. we’ve almost been together for two years!” you spill to him

as you stand by your best friend, Taeyong honestly feels irritated bc

you should be thankful that he cares that much

right?

“we’ve been together for a while, but you were basically flirting with your ex!”

Taeyong yells, causing a bunch of people to look over

“i was not flirting! if you think asking how someone’s been is flirting, then you need some serious help.” you’re done with him

Taeyong has never acted like this for as long as you’ve known him

why is he starting to now?

out of everyone who heard your voices, Yukhei happened to be one

“is there a problem?” he asks, stepping in front of you and johnny

(Johnny is honestly shook)

Taeyong is #$***//FUMING\\***$#

“our conversations are none of your business” he steps towards Yukhei

“you’re shouting for everyone else to hear” Yukhei fires back

you squeeze between the two--who have not broken eye contact

“guys, stop” you say, glancing at the both of them 

“no, this guy is gonna get what’s coming to him” Taeyong tries stepping closer to Yukhei

“Tae! stop!” you yell as you try to push him away from Yukhei, who’s being held back by Johnny

“why are you defending him, y/n? i’m your boyfriend, not him!” 

by now, everyone has stopped what they were doing, and they’re paying attention to the current situation

Jaehyun has joined you in trying to keep Taeyong back

but of course you can’t really hold two grown men lmao back

Jaehyun cannot hold Taeyong back 

he’s moving forward

he is so ready to fight

and so is Yukhei

you try to get in the middle

but unfortunately

when some people get to their breaking points, they black out and don’t realize what they’re doing

Taeyong seems to be one of those people

without thinking, he pushes you away

but it wasn’t just a soft push

Taeyong seemed to use all his strength which resulted in you falling to the floor, quite hard

but as soon as he’s done it

everyone becomes quiet

he realizes his mistake almost immediately after

“y-y/n, i’m--i didn’t”

you’re shocked

never in a million years did you think Taeyong would do something of the sort

“dude i think you should leave” Johnny tells Taeyong as both him and Jaehyun help you up

“wait y/n--”

“Tae, leave.” Jaehyun demands as they take you away from the situation

you can feel the tears beginning to form in your eyes

“y/n, baby i’m--”

this time you stop yong

“we’re done” you say as you turn around to leave with Jaehyun

tears are streaming down your face and you’re embarrassed that any of that just happened

Jaehyun quickly gets you to his car while Johnny trails behind

you turn to Johnny as hug him like your life depended on it

“i’m so sorry for ruining your birthday” you sob

Johnny pats your back “you didn’t ruin my birthday. plus, you know i love when the three of us spend time together.” he tries making you feel better

but you feel absolutely horrible

Jaehyun speeds up the process of you getting into the car when you three see Taeyong come out of the venue

“i’ll take care of this. go on, i’ll be there soon.” Johnny closes your door before Jaehyun reverses the car