jia

Mingyu: Baby. Much like soonyoung, he calls you baby because you are his baby. Mingyu’s romantic and charming. Everything he does has that hint of ‘ideal boyfriend type’, and let’s just say that you lost it when he calls you baby. Gyu’s way of saying ‘baby’ is so smooth and flawless. He’ll unexpectedly put it in a sentence, a text, so casually but it still somehow has such an effect on you. But on the other hand, the not-so-casual ‘baby’ is said during the late hours. When the AC is just a little bit too cold, and your blanket feels a little too cozy. He’d nuzzle his nose on your shoulder, and with a half-asleep mumble say, “good night, baby.”

Seokmin: Sunshine. Because he is a ball of one. He’d find it cute how you offered the name to be your term of endearment. It sounds childish and naive, yet beaming with joy as if the word itself shines as bright as it says. “What’s my sunshine cooking today?” he’d say, arm circling your waist and his head taking comfort on your shoulder. You can’t help but giggle. You know how seokmin is. He talks in smiles. In fonts covered by flowers and rainbows. You can practically smell a meadow of sunflowers whenever he’s near. You leaned your body back to his, head tilting to rest on his, “Your sunshine’s making that pasta recipe you’ve been wanting to try.” and he’d kiss your cheek in utter love. But despite that, I can see how often the two of you use it to the point that it gets cheesy. Not that it stops you from saying, but seokmin would rather save the nickname for cold mornings with you, afternoons with homemade smoothies, and midnights of laughters.

Seungkwan: It starts off as a cute nickname. “My boo <3” is what you named him in your contacts. You thought it was pretty clever, his family name being ‘boo’ and ‘boo’ also being an adorable term of endearment. But when he saw that name he decided that then and there being your term of endearment. Now, he’s become acclimatized to you singing Mr.chu but changed it into Mr.Boo. He founds it adorable when you call him your boo, and he would get in the fun sometimes calling you ‘boo’ too. Jokingly saying that “Someday your name’s going to change to boo anyways, so…”

Vernon: I feel like Vernon definitely has a term of endearment for you, he just uses it every so often. At times it’s out of spontaneity like he doesn’t realize that the word ‘babe’ came out of his mouth and would try his best to hide his blush. But he would also use it casually. He loves it when you call him ‘babe’ too. It’s cliche, it’s oftentimes cringe (if overused lmao), but it’s charming in a short quick way. Most of the time, it’s so casual how he says it, it’s in the same tier list as ‘bro’ and ‘dude.’ And sure, it can seem less romantic but that level of comfort is what the two of you love. It’s as if jokingly calling your best friend ‘babe’, but in this friendship, you two are madly in love.

Seungkwan encourages you every day to tell DK about your feelings for him, but you don't think you can, every time you try, your heart feels like it's going to leap out of your chest, thinking about how this would impact your friendship or worse, the fact you could be rejected.

You don't get many more attempts to try to confess to him, because one night, while the two of you are watching your favorite anime, he says softly, "I.. I really like you. More than I probably should."

Your whole world stops, and you can feel your heart leaping excitedly, and the blinding smile you have on your face takes him by surprise. He was honestly not expecting this reaction.

"I like you too! So much! I have for a while now!" You can't help but blurt out, probably a little too loud for the soft moment you're both sharing.

Neither of you seem to care though, as you both gaze at each other with all the stars in your eyes, confessing your feelings softly in faint whispers, fond smiles, and now, conjoined hands.

For the rest of the night, you both lay next to each other, talking about when you both realized you were in love with the other, and how much it affected your relationship.

For now, you're so grateful that it worked out in the end and that he's yours.

You better believe if you thought he was the most amazing friend, he's definitely the most amazing boyfriend.

Spoils your ROTTEN. Like seriously, does not let you lift a finger, or want for a thing.

Kisses your cheeks, your nose, your forehead whenever you're telling him about his day because he can't himself.

Matching lock screens because he's whipped, and also because he loves the photos you take together.

Remembers all your anniversaries and important dates because he knows how special those are to you.

Just in general, is the sweetest boyfriend you could've asked for, while at the same time, still being your absolute best friend. You can't believe your luck.

Wonwoo’s younger brother, Seokmin and a few of his guardsmen emerged from the steps not to far away. Seokmin’s expression was unreadable and foreign to you. Though a bold and free-spirited warrior, the young man always dorned nothing but friendly smile in the presence of others, especially when it comes to you. His brows knitted together in anger, his jaw grown slack, and his hand tightened around the hit of his sword, attempting to control his ever-growing temper as he neared, realizing it was you in Wonwoo’s hold.

Seokmin halted a few feet away from Wonwoo before repeating himself, “What is going on?” 

“Brother,” Wonwoo greeted him calmly. “I see you’ve returned from your latest quest.” 

Seokmin’s eyes fluttered to you quickly. His hardened expression stuttered for a second, worry flashing across his eyes before he turned back to Wonwoo. 

“Unhand her,” he growled.

Wonwoo cocked a curious eyebrow at him. “I am the crowned prince; I do as I please in this palace - her included.”

Before you could blink, Seokmin grabbed for the collar of Wonwoo’s robe, pulling the two of them flush chest to chest. A gasp escaped Eunuch Kim’s lips; Seokmin’s guardsmen stuttered in their footing, their hands flying to the hilt of their swards. You grunted as you too were pulled forward with Wonwoo. 

“You punk - you can’t do as you please,” Seokmin barked. “Don’t you know how fast word spreads in this kingdom? What are people going to think when they hear the crowned prince forced himself onto the royal doctor’s beloved daughter? Do you really think people are going to sit still?”

Wonwoo silently contemplated his younger brother’s words. The public did indeed love you. Despite your father’s warnings to stay within the palace walls, you set up a clinic in town, treating anyone and everyone who came to you with medical worries. Those who couldn’t afford your service, you treated without charge. You were benevolent and giving. It’s why Seokmin had grown to love you; it’s why Wonwoo wanted you. 

“Let. Her. Go,” Seokmin stated sternly when Wonwoo didn’t reply. 

“And if I don’t?” Wonwoo tested. 

“I don’t think you or I want to find out,” Seokmin replied. 

Wonwoo squeezed your wrist once more before he let go and pushed you forward. You stumbled forward, landing on your hands and knees. Instinctively, you moaned in pain, blood drawing from your hands as they met the rough gravel. 

Behind you Seokmin shoved Wonwoo away. His gaze flickered towards you, your pained expression only making him angrier. 

“We’re not done here, love,” Wonwoo called out to you, a smirk lacing his face. You turned your head slightly, not facing him, but enough to show that you were listening. You tried to stay still and hide your fear, but the trembling was not unnoticed.

“You’re lucky my brother has taken a liking to you,” Wonwoo continued. 

“You son of a -” Seokmin started. 

Swiftly, Seokmin ran towards Wonwoo with his fist raised. Wonwoo remained unwavered. 

“Prince Seokmin!” Eunuch Kim called out. Seokmin did not hear. 

Wonwoo let out an amused laugh. 

“You’re really going to hurt me over a girl, brother?” Wonwoo taunted. “You really think the father and the royal court are going to let you get away with that?” After watching Seokmin fall for you within the past year, Wonwoo knew about his younger brother’s feelings towards you. He knew where to hit where it hurt; he knew how to use his power over him. 

Seokmin gritted his teeth and clenched his fist tighter in hesitation. Despite not hearing Eunuch Kim in all his anger, Seokmin was able to make out your gentle voice calling his name. 

“Seokmin,” you tried once more. He turned his slightly to look at you. You only shook your head, silently pleading him to stop. 

The young man took a shaky breath, stepping back at your request. He gave his older brother a glare. Wonwoo cleared his throat and collected himself, adjusting his silk robe.

“Don’t touch her ever again,” Seokmin warned. 

Wonwoo only smirked. He gave you one last look before stalking off, Eunuch Kim shuffling after him in concern. 

“No one will speak of this outside the palace,” Seokmin announced to the surrounding servants. He looked up, rage only lacing his expression. Servants nodded and quickly turned back to their work in fear, not quite used to seeing the younger prince this angry. 

“You are dismissed,” Seokmin called out to his men.

They gave Seokmin a quick bow and headed to another part of the palace. When their footsteps faded into the distance, Seokmin finally walked towards you. He crouched down to meet your eyes, though you did not look at him. His eyes now softened at the sight of you. 

“Are you okay?” Seokmin asked. His eyes scanning your form up and down, searching for wounds. Fortunately, it only seems like your skirt had been slightly tattered and dusted with dirt. 

You only nodded. 

“Let’s go,” Seokmin said. He held out his hand to you gently. 

Hesitantly, you reached up to take his hand, carefully folding your fingers against his. You heard Seokmin gasp when he saw the purple and red marks on your wrist. 

“That bastard-”

“Please don’t,” you whispered.

You didn’t dare look at him. Seokmin only let out a heavy sigh and pulled you silently. His hand in yours, he hastily stalked off through the maze of palace. 

When you finally halted, you looked up to find yourself in back in the privacy and familiarity of your infirmary. Seokmin let go of your hand and began rifling through the drawers against the wall containing herbs and other medicines, angrily slamming them open and closed. 

“What do you need?” he demanded.

“Huh?” you hummed.

“Which medicine is it?” he repeated.

“Seokmin,” you tried.

“Which one is it?” he asked angrily.

You finally wrapped your arms around his waist, shutting your eyes tightly, hoping he would calm down. Seokmin noticeably stiffened at your touch.

"I-I need to treat y-your wrist," he stuttered.

“Please stop,” you whispered to him. “I’m okay.”

“No you’re not,” Seokmin protested softly. 

"You're here," you muttered, tightening your grip.

"Y/N . . . please let me help you," his voice wavered.

"You've done more than enough," you replied softly.

At this, Seokmin sighed and turned around in your hold. You looked up at him with glossy eyes, trying to hold back your tears from the shock of everything that just happened. Seokmin raised his hand to caress your delicate face. Seokmin gently thumbed the apples of your cheeks, his eyes studying your saddened expression.

"I'm sorry," Seokmin finally whispered. He pulled you into a tight embrace, his arms encircling your shoulders. His chin rested on the crown of your head, while he rocked you back and forth. You adjusted yourself to bury your face in the crook of his neck, his familiar scent filling your nostrils.

"Thank you," you whispered in return.

weekdays were typically very very slow at the local bookstore seokmin works at, especially in the wintertime

since the store was so small, there were only a few employees working on staff (minus the weekends since those were the busiest days)

seokmin’s shift partner seungkwan left early since he won a spontaneous game of rock paper scissors between the two of them

needless to say, seokmin was not happy about doing all the daily closing tasks on his own

despite what people thought, there was a lot of work to keep an indie bookstore up and running- and it was far easier with someone by his side

but alas he was alone tonight, so he started on those tasks a bit earlier to avoid staying too late after closing

he was busy putting away some new shipments in the back room when he heard the front doorbell chime

he glanced at the digital clock in the back— 10 minutes till closing— and sighed to himself

he got the occasional last minute customer but he was hoping tonight wouldn’t bring anyone in

he set his things down and hurried out to the front to help

he greeted the customer before he could see them, a costly mistake

his eyes nearly bulged out of his head when he saw you, your bleeding leg uncovered

he scrambled to help you take your coat off and roll up your pant leg more

you insisted you could do it yourself but he refused every time, batting your hand away

he grabbed a chair for you to sit and you watched him scramble around the store, clearly in a little bit over his head

he stopped in his tracks, mumbling that he’s gonna find the first aid kit before he scurried off to the back

you heard lots of things falling which made you stifle a laugh, this poor guy was so worried about you that the store was practically falling apart

he came back soon enough and sat at your feet, assessing your left leg closely

his eyes were still so wide with concern, it was kinda cute

you told him it was ok to touch you, his eyes were still cautious but he went ahead and started to clean your cut

the longer you sat down, you felt better but this stranger was clearly very invested

he said “sorry it might sting” in a singsong voice, but the dull ache of the hydrogen peroxide didn’t hurt much when he was so sweet about it

his touches were quite delicate, you didn’t expect this from someone who could’ve easily refused to help

after a few more minutes of silence, he asked what happened and you both naturally fell into conversation

you were just trying to make it home from work, but the ice had other plans

you fell so hard that you were convinced something went wrong, and once you saw the blood seeping through your pants it was obvious you needed help

you just kept stumbling until you found a bookstore nearby and now he was caught up with everything

you learned his name was seokmin, you introduced yourself too and you swore his smile got a little brighter once you said your name

he was quite pretty, you really tried to put it in the back of your mind but how could you ignore it?

despite cleaning your cut intently, he still clung onto every word you said- inserting the right reactions at the right time, laughing at your jokes, it added to how beautiful he already was

seokmin placed a bandage on your shin and he almost forgot he had to close the store

so he asked you to wait a few more minutes as he closed the shop

he was very apologetic but you insisted it was alright, you could wait for someone who took his time to help you

he made sure you were comfortable once again, helping you put your coat on and making sure that you could walk properly before you both left

he opened the door for you, smiling at you with a quick nod of his head

he locked the door and faced you once again, asking if there was anything else he could do for you

you asked if you could bring him a thank you gift as an apology for making him stay late after closing

It was the type of sadness you couldn’t name, the kind that had built up for weeks under your nose. So when your eyes met Seokmin’s across the room, a silent plea for rescue in a secret language that the two of you had become fluent in, he grabbed his keys and coat and said goodbye as he took your hand and led you into the cold air.

“What happened?” He asked as the two of you made your way to his car. The question was quiet, almost buried under the whistle of the chilly winter wind. You were thankful that you had taken him up on his offer to drive, as being alone with your thoughts was the last thing you wanted to do. 

“I wish I could say,” you replied. “I was fine, then all of a sudden… I just wasn’t.” You pulled your scarf a little higher, trying to protect your cheeks from the biting cold. Seokmin glanced over your way, and you stared straight into the night pretending not to notice the way his eyebrows furrowed together or the way he stepped just a little bit closer to you. 

Seokmin didn’t say anything else until the two of you were safely buckled into the car, waiting for the heater to warm you both up. “Do you… want to talk about it?” He asked tentatively. If he was honest, he wasn’t sure what to say, but all he could do was act on the tug in his heart to make you feel better somehow. 

You gave him a tired smile and wondered if he could even see it in the darkness of the night. “I do,” you began. “But I don’t even know what ‘it’ is. I’m just sad, and my heart feels tired.” It wasn’t a lot, but it was the best you could give him… or yourself for that matter. If you could talk it through, you would, because it was always easy to talk to Seokmin. But right now, you favored the silence.

Seokmin set the gear shift on drive, pulling out into the empty 2 a.m. roads. “You know, sometimes I like to drive around with nowhere to go,” he said softly. “It helps me think.” You looked towards him, but stayed quiet as he continued. “Especially when the stars are out like this, it’s a bit easier to put things into perspective. The universe is so big… It makes my problems feel a little smaller.

“Lately... things have been really difficult” he continued, pausing to take a breath. “There wasn’t really anyone I felt I could talk to. Not even the boys. But being out here, it felt like I could just take a minute to breathe. Like the world is on pause, for even just an hour.” 

Under the warm yellow lights of the city, you could see Seokmin's fingers tightening around the wheel ever so slightly. Though he tried to keep his voice even, you could see the slight tremble in his lips, and you wanted so badly to touch him, to remind him that you were here now. Seokmin was not the type to talk about the heavier things that were weighing on him, and you were afraid that speaking might suddenly snap him out of it.

So instead you turned your attention forward once again to the empty streets, lined with restaurants that had closed hours ago and apartment balconies with Christmas lights still left hanging on the railings. Seokmin was right, it felt like the world was on pause. No one was walking around the street, no speedy drivers swerving through traffic. It was like you were the only people in the city… in the world.

Seokmin was quiet after his confession, letting whatever was playing on the radio fill the silence. It seemed to last for an eternity, until he finally put the car in park at the top of a parking garage. He reached up, pulling back the screen that covered the moon roof of his car.

“It’s a little too cold to sit outside, but this should be fine.” For the first time since you had entered the car, Seokmin looked at you and you could clearly see the beginnings of the tears that he had swatted away, lining the dark bags under his eyes. Has he always looked this tired? You wondered how lonely he must have been, hiding behind the walls he had built up and you were grateful to share even a fraction of the weight he’s been carrying alone all this time.

“Fine for what?” You asked.

“Like I said, looking at the stars helps to put it all into perspective,” he repeated, pointing out at an arbitrary speck of light in the night sky. “Just imagine you’re standing on one of them, looking down at Earth. It’s barely a speck in the distance. There’s nothing that can reach you from there. Nothing can touch you.” The energy in his explanation ended in a tired, resigned sigh that escaped his lips. “Nothing can reach you,” he added, barely a whisper.

Suddenly, your problems did begin to feel small, but not because of the stars. Looking at Seokmin now, the only thing on your mind was him. For all you’ve known him, he would listen to everyone else’s problems and fix them with a laugh, the way only he could, but who was there for him? Before you could think too hard about what you were doing, you reached across the console to find his hand. He didn’t look up, but when you laced your fingers in his, you felt a gentle squeeze.

“Seokmin,” you called his name. “I’m here.”

“I mean yeah, obviously you’re here–”

“No, Seokmin, I’m here,” you cut him off. “And I’m not going anywhere.” When he looked up finally and allowed himself to meet your eyes, you suddenly wondered if you were as fluent in your secret language as you had thought. In all the shared smiles, the times you scanned the room to find him whenever you laughed, the knowing glances, you had never seen his eyes this tired. The walls he built up were beginning to crumble, and all you could do was reach out to him.

“I am so tired,” he confessed. “And I didn’t even realize how tired I’ve become.” He took your other hand in his, bringing it up to his cheek, relaxing the slightest bit in your touch.

Before you met Seokmin, you would have described your life as being stuck under a rainy cloud. But one day, the skies parted and there he was. And for as long as you’ve known him, Seokmin has always been the sun. Giving off warmth to everyone around him, radiating nothing but joy and laughter, but also somewhat distant. Keeping himself away because if he got too close he might burn someone. But even the sun doesn’t stay out forever. 

“It’s okay,” you assured him, pulling him closer to you. “Let yourself rest.” In that moment, all you could do was make a silent promise to God, the universe, the stars, whoever was listening, that you would always be there with Seokmin to let him rest, to let the quietness of night take over until he was ready to be the sun again.

The strained breaths coming from Seokmin made your heart ache, and you brought his forehead to yours. “If I’m not strong enough to carry these things alone,” he choked out. Before he could even finish his thought, you cut him off.

“No one said you have to carry it alone,” you said sternly, bringing your hand under his chin to force his eyes to meet yours. “Let us – let me, carry it with you.”

You stayed that way for a little while longer, or maybe it was forever, foreheads resting against each other over the console until you heard his ragged breathing finally steady itself. Seokmin let out a quiet but tired chuckle and you pulled away to look at him, unable to read the small smile that had made its way onto his features.

“What’s so funny, Seokmin?” you asked.

“It’s just,” he chuckled again. “I thought we were driving around to make you feel better, but as only you can do, you made me feel better instead.” It was his turn to reach up and touch your cheek, softly, as if he applied any more pressure he might break you. “And I didn’t even know I was sad,” he laughed, louder this time.

You laughed with him, as you always did, and looked down at your lap where your hands were fidgeting. Seokmin called your name quietly, his voice still raspy from crying and you looked back up. There it was again, the unreadable look in his eyes. “You…” he began. “You’re like the sun.”

You immediately abandon what you were doing, sirens going off in your head because Beep beep! Cute boy needs your help! “Of course! Is there anything in particular you’re looking for?”

He scratches the back of his neck awkwardly, eyes briefly scanning the colourful display behind you. “No, not really. I was invited to a holiday party and we’re doing a gift exchange,” he explains, “I’ve heard stuff from here are great as presents, but I’ve never been in one of your stores until now and… I’m a bit overwhelmed by all the choices.”

“I totally get it,” you reassure him with an encouraging smile, “I was completely lost when I first started working here too, but I hope after today you’ll be able to find something that you like! Would you like to start with our holiday items?”

His beam rivals the sun as he nods, much like an excited puppy as you lead him to the section for seasonal items.

“This gift set is one of our most popular ones, it’s called Little Snow Fairy and you get a bath bomb and a shower gel, they’re cotton candy and bubblegum-scented.” You grab a tester for the shower gel from the shelf and pop open the lid, letting the boy get a whiff of the shimmering, sweet-smelling product.

His eyes widen dramatically as he turns to you with his mouth agape. “Woah, this smells really good!”

“Right?” you agree excitedly, happy whenever a customer shares your enthusiasm, “it’s a bestseller for a reason! We also have this set called The Night Before Christmas—”

“Aw, I love that this one’s shaped like a polar bear,” the boy coos as he leans in to get a closer look at the bath bomb, “is that lavender?”

“Yeah! Both of them are lavender-scented, so it’s a bit more universal in case the person you’re giving it to doesn’t like sweet smells. It’s really relaxing to use in the bath too.”

“That sounds nice, and I think you’re right—it’s probably the safer option to gift when I don’t know who’s gonna receive it,” he says, carefully taking a set off the shelf and placing it in his basket before turning back to you, gaze expectant. “Is there anything else you recommend from here?”

“As gifts or for personal use?”

He grins, pearly-white teeth peeking from behind his rosy lips. You wonder what lip balm he uses. Maybe you should see if he wants one from here. “Surprise me.”

The two of you make small talk as you essentially give him a tour of the entire store, explaining and showing to him all the different products you think he’d like. You don’t mind one bit, though, because he’s one of the sweetest customers you’ve ever met and it makes you genuinely happy to see him enjoying himself. And not only do you learn that his name is Seokmin, you also find out that he’s incredibly hilarious.

“This smells and looks yummy,” he comments when you demonstrate a bar soap on his hand at one of the sinks. “What’s it called?”

“Honey, I Washed The Kids.”

“I hope they didn’t make too much of a mess.”

“Very funny,” you say with a teasing roll of your eyes, his giggles reaching your ears soon after, “I’m serious, that’s literally what it’s called.” Despite having met him just half an hour ago, talking to Seokmin feels like catching up with an old friend, surprising yourself with how comfortable you are around a stranger’s presence.

His warm eyes fall on your face as you wash away the foamy lather on his hand, a smile stretching across his lips at the adorable way your nose scrunches when you’re focused.

“Thanks, now my hand smells like dessert.” He brings his hand up to his face, softly sniffing at the caramel scent that lingers on his skin. “And the fact that it looks like a dessert too, has anyone actually taken a bite out of these things?”

“If I had a dollar for every time someone asked me if they could do that, I wouldn’t have to work anymore,” you joke. “None of our products should ever be consumed, but it never stops people from trying anyways.”

Hearty laughter, reminiscent of a roaring fire on a freezing winter night, bubbles up out of Seokmin. “Just because it’s natural doesn’t mean it’s always edible, huh?”

“Exactly.”

“Like poop.”

“You’d make a fantastic LUSH salesperson.”

He wriggles his eyebrows at you with a cheeky smile. “Does this mean you wanna be coworkers with me?”

You can’t help but smile back as he grabs a bar of Honey, I Washed The Kids. “I mean, if bath bombs and bar soaps with… interesting names are your calling, then feel free to send in an application.”

He looks down at his overflowing basket. “Does LUSH offer employee discounts?”

Seokmin looks on rather embarrassedly as you ring him up ten minutes later. “Y’know, I never expected myself to get so much stuff for my first time here… most of these aren’t even gifts! They’re for me!”

You briefly look up from wrapping his gift exchange present to shoot him a knowing smile. “Don’t worry, happens all the time. But in all seriousness, I’m really glad you had fun and found what you needed! I’m sure whoever gets your present will love it, and I’m not just saying that because I’m biased.”

“Not even a little?” he teases.

“Well… maybe just a little,” you admit with a shy grin as you carefully arrange his purchases in a large bag. Along with his receipt, you also throw in some samples like you’d normally would (okay, maybe you slipped in a few more than usual) before gently nudging the bag towards him.

“It was nice meeting you, Seokmin,” you tell him, feeling your cheeks warm at your words, “I hope you enjoy your holidays.”

His eyes crinkle up into adorable crescents as he beams brightly. “It was nice meeting you too, Y/N! Thank you so much for helping me out today, and I’m sorry if I took up too much of your time.”

“No, no, don’t apologise! I had lots of fun talking to you! Feel free to stop by more often.”

“I definitely will. I’m pretty sure today’s the beginning of my LUSH obsession.”

You giggle, more thankful than ever that the store is unusually empty so you can keep talking to him without worrying about holding up the line. “Then… I guess I’ll see you around?”

Seokmin nods enthusiastically, fluffy hair bouncing along with the movement. “Of course! And—uh… how should I say this…”

Fondness blooms in your chest as he stumbles over his words, your curiosity growing simultaneously as you wonder what else he has to say.

“I’m not too sure if bar soaps and bath bombs are my calling yet… but I’d love to hang out with you outside your job because you seem really cool!” he blurts out, the tips of his ears now a bright red as your eyes widen at his sudden admission, “I can give you my number, o-only if you want, of course! No pressure, r-really! I—uh—”

“Seokmin, I’d love to hang out,” you interrupt gently, and he returns your smile as you reach into his bag for his receipt with burning cheeks, quickly scribbling your number on it using the marker you snagged from the pen holder in the corner. “Don’t lose it,” you joke to ease his nerves, snugly tucking the receipt in between his purchases.

“I’ll guard it with my life,” he responds in an equally lighthearted manner, eyes twinkling with happiness, “after all, we have kids to wash, honey.”

Your cheeks hurt from smiling so much as you watch his retreating figure, and while you knew you’d have to endure your coworkers’ relentless teasing for the rest of your shift after they witnessed your entire exchange, you can’t bring yourself to mind all that much when you’re looking forward to a text from a certain bespectacled boy.

from: unknown number

[18:32] hi y/n, it’s seok!!