stories in my mind's eye

nayeon: annoying morning (f) - taste (fs)

lunch (fs)

tzuyu: doorstep flowers (f) - sleepyhead (f) - birthday girl (f) - together (s) - juna (fs)

sana: sharing is caring (s) - sorbet (s)

full circle (s) - field trip (f) - sunshine (f)

momo: show & learn (s)

mina: polite (s) - later (fs) - a later time (s) - nyc baby (f)

jeongyeon: waves of emotions (fs)

Your first meeting with Momo, the delivery person, was something. You opened the door, eyes still crusty from sleep, and there she was: rolled-up sleeves, a half-up hairdo, and cute glasses framing her face.

“Oh, hey! Didn’t expect—uh, someone like y-”

She flashed a smile that could rival the sun. “Hi! I’m Momo! Hope the surprise is a good one!” she said, raising the bag higher to your face, her muscles working and showing.

You caught a glimpse in the bag: a pack of gummies poking out the top. “This is exactly what I needed. Thank you so much!”

Momo chuckled and shrugged. “Glad you like it! I’ll be sure to keep them coming. Have a nice day!”

With that, she left, but you couldn’t stop smiling. From that Monday on, your exchanges became something you looked forward to. Momo started adding a different treat each time, a little touch of sweet mixed into your groceries.

Mondays slowly turned into mini-breaks from life’s usual grind, and Momo would show up each week with her easygoing charm. You’d chat about the weather, exchange stories from your week, and laugh over the oddities that ended up in the produce bag. Once, Momo brought you an alien-looking fruit neither of you could identify, sparking a lively debate over how one might even begin to eat it.

One Monday, Momo didn’t show up. Instead, her replacement named Jihyo knocked on your door. And of course you asked,

“Momo doing okay?”

“She’s fine, just a bit under the weather,” Jihyo replied with a smile. “But she wanted to make sure I didn’t skip your sweet.” She handed over your bag, complete with a box of chocolates and a handwritten note: “Caught a cold. I’m fine—don’t worry. And here’s the weekly treat ;)”

In that moment, you realized it wasn’t just about the fruits and sweets anymore—it was more. The connection Momo had brought to each delivery, her attention, her care...

Her, her, her.

Each Monday after that was a little brighter. One week, Momo handed you a box of caramels, a playful gleam in her eye. “Going for extra sugar today. Hope you’re up for it.”

You giggled, “I trust your judgment. You're somehow always right.”

Momo grinned. “Hey, maybe I have a hidden talent for matching snacks to people’s moods. Or just giving the right treat to the prettiest person I know.”

Your small talk gradually gave way to deeper conversations. She’d share stories from the market—the quirky customers, the hectic mornings, the occasional disasters with fresh produce. You found yourself opening up too, laughing about the oddest things in your week, discussing favorite candies and ridiculous fruit facts.

One rainy Monday, she handed over the bag with a selection of comfort sweets: chocolates, marshmallows, the works. “Rainy days call for the good stuff,” she said simply, and you couldn’t help but feel seen.

Loved, maybe?

Another Monday, Momo told you about a local festival coming up. “They’ve got some amazing desserts there. Maybe you’d want to check it out?”

It sounded like a nice change of pace. So of course you agreed.

And of course you'd say yes to the cutest girl you've ever met.

When the day of the festival came, you ended up meeting Momo there, navigating the crowded stalls and sampling all the treats. At one point, she turned to you. “You know, it feels like I’ve known you forever, and it’s only been, what, a few months?”

You nodded. “Honestly, Mondays have started feeling like a whole separate world. All because of you Momo, thank you.” you whispered, linking your pinky with hers.

You didn't miss the way she blushed.

In the weeks that followed, you found yourself waiting eagerly for those Monday and the possibility of other shared moments beyond the doorstep. Then, one sunny Monday, Momo brought you a small potted plant.

“I thought your place could use a touch of green. Plus, plants are like natural mood boosters, right?”

Touched, you accepted the gift, realizing it was more than just a plant—it symbolized something more.

One day, as you sat together on your cozy couch, Momo turned to you with a soft smile. “You know, you’ve made my Mondays something to look forward to. It’s not just about the deliveries—it’s about you.”

You felt a flutter in your chest and met Momo's gaze. She looked so sickeningly cute, her glasses slightly crooked, her cheeks flushed red and puffed up.

The words hung in the air with hearts beating faster and butterflies flying harder.

Before you could respond, Momo’s hand gently cupped your cheek, her warm fingers brushing against your skin, sending a shiver down your spine. She leaned in slowly, her lips meeting yours—soft, warm, tentative at first, then pressing with a little more certainty. The gentle pressure of her mouth against yours deepened as you both leaned closer, letting the moment linger.

When she pulled back, Momo gave you a small, shy smile, her nose scrunching up in that familiar way. “I really like you, Y/N.”

Her other hand slipped to the back of your neck, her fingertips tracing lightly along your skin, pulling you closer as her lips found yours again. This kiss was warm, unhurried.

“I like you so much.”

Another kiss.

How could she let you go? A quiet voice insists that you’re different, that you’re special. That you know exactly how to make her feel wanted, and she can’t shake the memory of you both undressed.

She remembers your gaze, the way you look at her like she’s the only one.

She knows she’s in deep.

“Hey, beautiful,” you say over the phone, your voice smooth and familiar.

Momo presses her lips together, steadying herself. There’s something in your tone that warms her, that pulls her in without effort.

“Hey, are you com—” She catches herself, unwilling to sound too eager. You always seem to leave her brokenhearted anyway. Maybe if she holds back, just a little, it’ll change something. “I mean, what’s up?”

You chuckle softly, the sound easy, affectionate.

It unsettles her.

“Wondering if I’m coming over? I’ll be there soon, baby.”

Her pulse quickens.

Fuck.

She hates it.

A soft moan escapes her as your lips trace the curve of her jaw, teeth grazing her earlobe, your breath warm against her skin as you murmur how much you’ve missed her.

With you above her, every inch of your body pressing down, her breath grows heavy. Your hands explore her skin slowly, tenderly. She arches up toward you, letting out a whimper as your lips trail down her chest, igniting something deep within her.

Then suddenly, the buzz of your phone cuts through the quiet, snapping her back to reality. She watches your gaze shift to the screen as the notifications light up—again, then again—each one a reminder of the others who wait, who think they have a piece of you.

Her stomach twists, a pang of jealousy sparking as she realizes what it means. She knows exactly who’s messaging you right now, knows it’s all those others who think they’re just as close to you as she is. Her heart races, and she almost pulls away, ready to push you off, but then she notices you hesitate, just for a second, before dismissing the phone entirely, letting it clatter to the floor.

You turn back to her, hands sliding firmly along her waist, pulling her closer. “I’m all yours,” you murmur, your lips finding the sensitive spot just below her ear. She gasps, hands gripping your shoulders as a soft, involuntary whine escapes her.

She bites her lip, trying to regain control, but the thrill of being chosen, of knowing she’s the one you’re with right now, fills her with a wicked satisfaction.

She’s the highest bidder in your auction.

She pulls back slightly, looking into your eyes, a smirk playing on her lips as she whispers, “All mine, huh?” Her hand reaches up to the back of your neck, her fingers slipping into your hair as she pulls you closer. “Good,” she purrs, leaning up to catch your bottom lip between her teeth, biting it gently, a possessive edge in the way she holds you there before finally releasing.

She feels the shift in your energy as your hands tighten on her. You lean in, kissing her lips hard. All the doubts, all the others, fade away as she lets herself revel in the fact that, at least for now, she’s the one who has you all to herself.

~~~

Momo lies there in the quiet after you leave, staring up at the ceiling, trying to chase away the ache that’s started to settle in her chest. The warmth of your touch lingers on her skin, like a ghost she can’t shake, a reminder of what just happened—and what always seems to happen. She picks up her phone, scrolling through the empty screen, already hoping for a message that she knows probably won’t come.

Hours pass, then days, and the silence from you stretches on, but she keeps checking, keeps waiting, convincing herself that this time you’ll reach out first, that maybe something’s changed. Yet, the pattern repeats itself, and the truth becomes impossible to ignore. Momo knows she’s just another option, one of many. She’s painfully aware of the game you play, but she can’t bring herself to step away from it.

Finally, one night, her phone lights up with a notification. She grabs it without hesitation, her heart skipping a beat at the sight of your name. It’s just a simple, “Hey,” but it’s enough to pull her right back in, to erase the days of silence like they never happened. She tells herself she should ignore it, let you see what it feels like to be left waiting. But, just like always, she can’t resist. She replies, her heart already racing, her mind filling with the possibility that maybe this time will be different.

You don’t waste any time. Within minutes, you’re calling her, your voice smooth and familiar, wrapping around her like a warmth she’s craved. “Miss me?” you ask, the question laced with that same teasing charm you know will hook her.

She wants to tell you how much it hurt when you disappeared, how tired she is of the push and pull, but the words won’t come out. Instead, she just breathes a small laugh, masking the vulnerability she hates showing. “You wish,” she replies, forcing herself to sound casual, as if she hasn’t spent days waiting just to hear from you.

You laugh softly, your voice so easy, so unaffected, and it stings, but she lets herself fall into it. She tries to convince herself that she’s in control, that she can play the game too, but deep down, she knows the truth. The moment you ask to come over, she’ll say yes, and she’ll be right back where she started, hoping for a different ending to a story that’s always the same.

And sure enough, when you say, “I’ll be there in a few,” she can’t stop herself. “Alright,” she whispers, trying to hide the tremor in her voice, the relief that’s impossible to disguise.

Hanging up, she catches her own reflection in the mirror across the room and sees the longing in her eyes, the same expression she wore the last time you left, and the time before that. She knows this isn’t what love should look like, that it shouldn’t feel like this constant ache, this endless waiting.

But when you finally show up at her door, giving her that familiar smile, all her defenses fall away. The questions, the doubts—they’re pushed aside as she pulls you inside, letting herself forget, if only for a little while, the reality she’s too scared to face.

When you cry over a sad movie, her heart aches for you. She hates seeing your eyes fill with tears, watching the way your face crumples as you clutch a tissue, trying to hold it together. It breaks her, seeing you like this, but even then, you are beautiful to her.

Walking outside, she’s entranced by your giggle as you watch children play. You laugh as they run past, joy flashing across your face like a secret only you know. That laugh—it fills her with warmth, makes her want to reach out and feel the light that radiates from you. But she stays silent, a quiet observer, as your laughter blends with the sounds of the world around you.

On the train, Jihyo’s eyes linger on you as you fight off the exhaustion from the day. You close your eyes for just a moment, your head leaning back as a quiet yawn escapes your lips. Your headphones slip slightly as your body surrenders to a brief moment of rest. Even in your fatigue, you look peaceful, the smallest gestures—like the way you adjust your jacket—utterly captivating.

Later, as you emerge from the shower, fresh and warm, Jihyo feels her heart swell again. You wrap yourself in a towel, your skin still damp and flushed from the heat, and the sight of you in this quiet, cozy moment takes her breath away. The scent of soap lingers in the air as you slip into your pajamas, your movements gentle, unhurried. When you finally settle into bed, pulling the covers around you, she watches you with a mix of affection and longing.

You're just so pretty.

Jihyo adores how you take care of yourself, even in your most vulnerable moments. She watches as you settle into bed, legs casually spread under the sheets, your bitten lip hinting to some teasing. The sight makes her heart race and her cheeks flush; it’s incredibly flustering to see you like this, so effortlessly captivating.

Needy.

God, how you manage to look so beautiful when you let your guard down—when you fall apart just a little with your hand working yourself. Every little detail, from the way your chest rises and falls to the gentle curve of your body beneath the soft fabric...

Jihyo wonders if you think she’s pretty too.

She’s curious if you notice the little things as you go about your day, completely unaware of her lingering presence. Did you feel that sudden gust of wind brush against your skin? Did you see those leaves turn upside down, dancing in the air as if they knew her secret?

She chuckles at how ridiculous this all sounds, but did you just feel a puff of warmth on your neck, a gentle caress that only she could provide?

In her heart, she really wonders if you think she’s pretty too.

She thinks you do.

Did you see the candle flame flicker just as her hand hovered over your shoulder, a silent acknowledgment of her affection? Or do you ever catch a faint whiff of that dewy, musky perfume when you’re all alone and feeling broken?

Jihyo lingers, waiting for another sign, wondering if you’ve noticed any of the tiny ripples she leaves in your world. Did you hear the soft creak of the floorboards when there was no one else around? Did you feel the room grow just a little colder as you walked through it? She smiles, knowing how ridiculous it seems, but in her heart, she hopes. She hopes you’ve felt the brush of her fingers when the lights flickered, or that your breath hitched when the air turned just a little heavier, as if someone were standing right behind you.

She knows you won’t realize it, not fully. But one day, maybe you’ll catch something more, some trace of her love that lingers long after she’s gone. Until then, she’ll haunt you gently, watching you from afar, loving you silently from the shadows.

Jihyo knows she’ll never stop—she’ll haunt you forever, her presence like the wind in the trees or the flicker of candlelight. She’ll stay with you until the day someone else comes along, someone who steals your heart away from her. And when that day comes, when she sees you happy and in love with someone who can hold you the way she never could, only then will she finally let you go.

Sana’s eyes catch yours across the floor, and there’s no mistaking it this time. She’s been waiting for you too. She weaves her way through the crowd, her gaze never leaving yours.

“You’re always here,” she says when she’s close enough, her voice smooth, teasing. “Same time, same place. Waiting for me?”

Her body presses lightly against yours, her lips curving into a smile that sends a shiver down your spine. Her fingers trail along your arm, familiar but always electrifying.

“You like this game we play, don’t you?” she whispers, her breath hot against your skin, her lips brushing the shell of your ear. “Pretending we’re just dancing…”

There’s a heat between you now, built up from weeks of stolen glances. Her fingers tighten on your waist as her body molds against yours.

“I’ve been waiting for you,” she says softly, her tone shifting from playful to serious. Her eyes flicker with something deeper, something that’s been simmering just beneath the surface. “All those nights, watching you, wanting you...”

Her hands slide up your sides, possessive, pulling you closer until there’s no space left between you. Her lips hover over your neck, teasing but not quite touching.

“You have no idea what you do to me,” she continues, a whine dying at the back of her throat. “I think about you all the time. Even when we’re not here, even when I’m not supposed to.”

You swallow hard, the intensity of her words hitting you like a wave. She knows that you’ve always wanted her too. It was always her.

Always Sana.

She pulls you into a kiss, slow at first, testing, but then harder, more urgent, like she’s finally giving in to the weeks of pent-up desire. Her hands slide to your face, holding you close, like she’s afraid you’ll disappear.

“I’m done waiting,” she says against your lips. “I want you.”

She grabs your hand, her fingers threading through yours with a firm grip. She doesn’t say a word—just smiles, tugs you toward the door, and you follow. It’s always like this with her. She leads, you follow. It's inevitable.

She glances back at you, her eyes glimmering under the streetlights, her lips still curved in that knowing smile. Her hair swings with every step, catching the light as it moves. Her cheeks are flushed from the heat of the club, from the way she kissed you like she’d been waiting weeks to do it.

Her hips sway deliberately as she walks, each step drawing your eyes. She knows exactly what she’s doing, and it’s driving you crazy.

“Still with me, beautiful?” she teases, her voice light but with an edge that sends a spark straight through you. She looks over her shoulder, her eyes flicking to yours, daring you to look away. You don’t.

You can’t.

Her laughter floats in the air between you as she leads you down the street, her pace slow, giving you time to catch up to her. She stops suddenly, spinning to face you beneath the glow of a streetlight. It makes her look almost ethereal.

“Come here,” she whispers. She pulls you into her, her body pressing close, her hand sliding up your arm to your neck, pulling you down to her level.

You barely have time to breathe before her lips are on yours again. This kiss is quick, but it’s enough to take your breath away. She pulls back just a bit, enough to see the dazed look in your eyes.

“I like seeing you like this,” she murmurs, her breath brushing your lips. “Completely undone.”

She giggles, the sound light and carefree, the complete opposite of the heat in her gaze. She gives you a final tug, pulling you even closer, her lips brushing your jaw.

“Don’t worry,” she breathes, “I’m not done with you yet.”

The walk to Sana’s place fades into a blur. You barely register the city around you—the lights, the people, the sounds. It’s all background noise to the feeling of her hand pulling you along.

By the time you reach her apartment, your breath is uneven. Sana steps inside, letting the door click shut behind her. She doesn’t say anything at first, just stands there, leaning against the door, eyes locked on you.

The way the city lights filter through the window makes the room flicker with shadows, like the club lights have followed you here, but now everything is quieter, more carnal.

Sana stays leaning against the door, her eyes never leaving yours as she smirks. “You’re so pretty,” she says, the words almost taunting. “Standing there like that… it’s almost too much.”

She doesn’t move at first, just lets her gaze travel over you, her lower lip stuck between her teeth. Then, slowly, she pushes off the door and steps toward you, her eyes dark.

When she’s close enough, her fingers graze your cheek, barely touching, but enough to make your skin burn. “I can’t decide if I want to kiss you,” she murmurs. A lick of lips. “or just take a bite.”

Your breath catches, the weight of her words lingering as Sana’s fingers slip from your cheek to your wrist, guiding you with an effortless pull. She doesn’t rush, just looks back at you with that same teasing smile, her eyes darker now, her pace slow as she leads you down the hallway.

She brings you into her bedroom, the soft glow of the city filtering through the windows. She stops by the bed, turning to face you, her breath is already uneven.

“Undress,” she says, ever so gently, her gaze roaming your body like she’s already imagining what’s underneath.

You take your time, peeling off each layer, knowing her eyes are on you. The moment your shirt comes off, you hear it—a soft hitch in her breath. Her eyes flicker, darkening with something more primal. She bites her lip, trying to play it cool, but it’s clear she’s affected.

As your pants hit the floor, her chest rises and falls more quickly. “God,” she mutters, voice husky, her eyes tracing the lines of your body. “You’re—” She swallows, momentarily speechless. “You’re so perfect.”

You hold her gaze as you finish undressing, fully aware of how intently she’s watching, the way her breath keeps catching. It sends a rush through you, knowing the effect you have on her.

Her hand trembles slightly as she reaches for the hem of her own shirt. She pulls it off, tossing it aside, but she’s slower this time—deliberate, like she wants you to see every inch of her. Her breath hitches again as she unbuttons her pants, and you can see how much it’s costing her to keep steady.

“You have no idea what you’re doing to me,” she whispers, stepping out of the last of her clothes, her eyes never leaving yours. “I can’t… I can’t believe how badly I want you.”

Finally, she steps forward, her fingers grazing your skin, her breath warm and shaky. “Come here,” she murmurs, her voice softer now, laced with hunger. “I need to feel you.”

Sana closes the distance between you in a heartbeat, her breath shaky as her lips crash into yours. The kiss is deep, almost desperate, her hands sliding up your arms before finding your waist, pulling you closer like she can’t get enough. Her body presses against yours, warm and electric.

She pulls back for a moment, her breath heavy against your lips. “I’ve wanted this all night,” she murmurs. Her fingers trace the curve of your hip before gently guiding you toward the bed.

She steps back just enough to let you sit down, your knees brushing the edge of the mattress. Her eyes are locked on yours, the room around you fading away, leaving only the two of you in the dim glow. You sit at the edge of the bed, heart pounding in your chest, as she stands in front of you, looking so pretty and out of breath already.

She lowers herself slowly, her knees pressing into the floor between your legs, her hands gliding up your thighs. “You’re killing me, you know that?” she whispers, her lips curving into a playful smile before she leans in, kissing you again, this time slower, savoring the taste of you.

Sana pulls back slightly, a mischievous glint in her eyes as she locks onto your gaze. She bites her lip, leaning in until her nose brushes against yours, her breath warm and inviting.

“Use your hands,” she whispers, letting the words linger between you. “Show me what you want. Enjoy me.”

She leans back slightly, a teasing smirk playing on her lips. “Or should I do what I want?” she adds, squeezing your thighs firmly, her fingers pressing in just enough to elicit a whimper from you.

You’re over it—the teasing, the lingering touches that never go far enough. With a sharp breath, your hand moves swiftly, fingers slipping into her hair and giving it a firm tug.

Sana’s moan is immediate, loud and shameless, filling the space between you. Her head tilts back under your grip, exposing the vulnerable curve of her throat as her cheeks flush deep pink. She blinks, eyes fluttering open with a dazed look, her lips parted and breath shaky.

“You like that?” she giggles breathlessly, not missing the way you whined at her reaction.

“Enough,” you huff, tightening your grip. “Just take what you want.”

Sana’s eyes widen at your words, the intensity of your command pulling her out of her playful teasing. She breathes in deeply, her chest rising and falling as she swallows hard. Then her lips curve into a grin, her hands gripping your thighs more firmly as she presses closer, finally giving in.

Her tongue just grazes your folds, and you’re already falling apart. Your core muscles give out as you collapse onto her soft sheets.

Sana releases a high-pitched whine as she watches you unravel from just her touch. Her hands glide up to squeeze your breasts before trailing back down, slipping under your thighs. Her nails dig into your skin as she pulls your legs over her shoulders.

She’s gentle with her tongue, delicately exploring every inch of your sex. She briefly dips into your hole before wrapping her tongue around your clit, suckling softly.

She’s riled you up so much, it’s almost impossible to not already reach your peak. Her moans and soft cries with every stroke of her tongue against your core aren’t making it any easier either. You can’t even tell if it’s from your taste, your sounds, or—

“God, you’re so hot,” she whimpers, catching her breath. “Fuck.” Without missing a beat, she leans in for a swift lick. “You taste so good.”

Or both.

With your last ounce of strength, you sit up and grasp her curls, your body folding and hovering over her. She groans, devouring you hungrily. Everything feels more intense now; her fingers dig into your skin, and her lips move with fervor. The sounds—gosh, the sounds… She’s slurping and grunting against you and it’s filthy. Completely lost in pleasure, you start to grind against her face, and a deep moan escapes her.

“That’s what I want! Yes! Use me, baby,” she cries out, her voice breaking with desperation.

You obey, releasing yourself all over her. Her tongue plunges in, and her nose lightly brushes against your clit. It feels so blissful that you know you’re gonna fall apart.

A harsh suck and your toes curl. Sana presses deeper into you, her moans urging you to ride out your high.

You gasp, trying to push her head away, but she doesn’t let up, her fingers digging in so hard into your skin that you can’t distance yourself.

"Sana!"

Your head falls back, and you notice the room is no longer dark. An orange glow fills the space as the sun rises, and you realize how much time has slipped away. And oh, fuck—fuck, fuck, fuck!

"Sana! Again, I’m gonna-"

You hum softly, half-lost in thought, as Sana’s lips brush against the back of your neck. Her hands glide up, fingers tracing your sides, slow and teasing. “What’s got you thinking so hard?” she whispers, her lips close to your ear, voice low and playful. You try to focus, but her touch is persistent, her fingers pressing into your waist just enough to make your breath hitch.

“I’m just… trying to figure out the right books for the kids,” you manage, though your voice wavers when Sana’s hands slip to your hips, pulling you back gently against her.

“Mmm, always working. My baby’s so good and perfect,” she purrs, letting her lips trail down your neck. “Need me? There’s a few ways I can help.” Her hands wander, and the warmth of her body presses into you as she sways you both, ever so slightly.

You bite your lip, trying to keep your thoughts straight, but she’s relentless, her touch making it hard to think about anything except her. “Sana,” you say, though it’s more of a breath than a warning.

“Hmm?” she replies, her voice full of mischief as her hands drift higher. “Let me help.”

You sigh, fighting to stay focused. “I’m serious, Sana,” you manage to say, though your voice is unsteady with the way her lips linger on your neck, her touch making it hard to concentrate.

“I’m serious too,” she whispers, her fingers slipping beneath the hem of your shirt, grazing your skin and sending a shiver through you. Her lips press a soft kiss just behind your ear, and your breath catches. “The kids love a bit of adventure, some magic…” she murmurs, her voice like silk, while her fingers trace slow, teasing patterns on your waist.

Your heart skips a beat as she nuzzles closer, lips brushing behind your ear again. “We could always read them a horror story,” she says, her tone playful. “Better than scaring them with teenage high school doom. They’ll get enough of that next fall.”

Sana’s hands glide up your sides before she gently turns you around to face her, her eyes soft and warm. She smiles, so sweetly, so full of love that your chest tightens. “I know you’ll find the best books,” she whispers, her voice full of affection. “You’re always so great at that.”

The tenderness in her words makes you lean in, closing the distance between you. Your lips meet hers, and you feel the soft, surprised moan escape from her as your kiss deepens. She melts against you, a giggle bubbling up as she pulls back slightly, eyes gleaming.

“Didn’t expect that, huh?” you murmur, brushing your thumb across her cheek as she beams up at you.

Sana’s grin turns sly as her fingers trace slow circles on your hips. “Nope, but I’m definitely not complaining,” she murmurs, leaning in, her lips inches from yours. “Kiss me again?”

Her hands slide down past your hips, and you can feel the way her chest presses into yours during each breath. “Sana…” you begin, but she just giggles, her lips brushing yours.

“Sunshine…” she whispers, as she tilts her head to give you puppy eyes. Her hands roam higher, her breath warm against your lips. “Please?”

You laugh softly. “You’re impossible.”

“And you love it,” she teases, before you lean in to give her another kiss.

I do love you.

~~~

The bus buzzes with excitement as everyone settles in for the trip. Jeongyeon stands at the front, clipboard in hand, doing a final headcount. “Is everyone here?”

Up by the driver, Jihyo is confirming last-minute details, her phone in one hand as she gestures to the route on her screen. She catches your eye, giving you a quick nod before returning to her conversation.

A few rows back, Sana and Dahyun are busy sorting snacks. “Granola bars or apples?” Dahyun asks, while Sana grins, already handing out gummy bears to the nearby kids.

You unfold the itinerary Jihyo gave you earlier, scanning the plans for the next three days—hiking, a museum visit, and a campfire night. The schedule is packed, but it looks fun. The bus engine rumbles and you glance out the window, watching the school fade away.

“Miss Sunshine, are you excited?” Nayeon’s voice breaks your focus. She pops her head over the seat in front of you, her bunny smile wide and playful.

You grin back at her, her bangs now gone, showing off more of her face. “Yeah, I’m excited! It’s going to be great!”

Nayeon rests her chin on the seatback, her eyes twinkling. “Yay! Just checking if these plans are fun enough,” she teases, nodding toward the itinerary in your lap.

Before you can answer, Mina shyly peeks over the seat beside her, her chubby cheeks almost gone but her smile still soft and sweet. “Are you excited too?” she asks quietly.

You nod, returning her gentle smile. “Yeah, definitely. What about you, sweetheart?”

“A little nervous,” Mina admits with a shy laugh, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “But I think it’ll be fun.”

Nayeon playfully pokes Mina’s nose. “Don’t worry, we’ll make sure you have a blast!”

Just as you’re about to respond, a loud groan comes from the back of the bus. You turn around to see Chaeyoung glaring at Momo, who’s casually chewing something.

“What’s going on back there?” you ask.

“Stupid Momo ate my gummies!” Chaeyoung exclaims, slapping Momo’s arm.

Momo shrugs, still chewing, her eyes fixed on the window. “You can’t even eat them with those ugly braces of yours,” she says, totally unfazed.

You gasp, ready to step in, but Sana’s already on it. She steps forward, arms crossed, her tone firm. “Apologize. Both of you. Now.”

Chaeyoung and Momo mumble half-hearted apologies. Before Jeongyeon can jump in to scold them, Dahyun calls out urgently, “Tzuyu’s getting car sick!”

The bus is quickly descending into chaos, and you sigh, glancing back at the itinerary. It’s only the beginning of the trip, and things are already getting ugh!

~~~

The museum is cool and quiet, the soft echo of footsteps and hushed voices filling the space as you stand in front of a large exhibit on historical archives. The kids gather around you, their curious eyes wide as they listen.

Tzuyu raises her hand and you can’t help but notice how much she’s grown. She’s nearly your height now, standing out from the group of students, and you smile at the memory of her being one of the shortest in the group not too long ago.

“But how do people even know what’s important to keep?” She asks, her wide eyes full of genuine wonder. “Like… how do you choose what goes into an archive?”

You smile, glad to see her so engaged. “That’s a great question, Tzuyu. Archivists look at what’s relevant to people’s lives, cultures, and history. We collect things that tell stories about how people lived, what they valued, what they struggled with. Sometimes, it’s big events or, it’s something small—like letters, or old photos. It’s about piecing together the whole story.”

Tzuyu nods thoughtfully, clearly thinking it over, and beside her, Momo speaks up next. “So, like… even regular people’s stuff gets kept? Not just famous people?”

“Exactly,” you say, nodding. “Everyone’s story matters, not just the famous ones. That’s why personal archives are so important.”

You glance at Sana for a brief moment. She’s leaning against the wall in the back, her eyes never leaving you. There’s a glow in her expression, like she’s seeing you in a new light, utterly in awe of how effortlessly you share your passion with the kids. Her gaze makes you feel warm inside, and you can’t help but stand a little taller.

Before you can continue, Nayeon adds, “Wait, so do you think in a hundred years, people are going to be looking at our old texts and selfies in an archive?”

The group breaks into giggles, but you nod. “It’s possible! Digital archives are a huge part of the future. What we share online, what we document today, might be what future generations use to understand our world. So yeah, even your selfies could be a part of history.”

The kids laugh again as Sana catches your eye again from the back, mouthing the words, “you’re amazing. I love you.” You can feel the pride swelling in her chest. It’s as if she’s soaking up every bit of who you are in this moment, her eyes filled with deep affection. You smile softly at her before turning back to the kids.

"Should we go for lunch, class?"

"Yes!"

~~~

The food court is busy as you settle into your seat with the staff, Sana comfortably by your side. You take a bite of your sandwich, feeling her hand resting gently on your thigh under the table, her thumb tracing soft circles that bring a smile to your lips.

As your gaze drifts to the students’ table, you spot Momo happily sharing her food with Chaeyoung, who clutches her “prehistoric” bone—something she bought at the souvenir shop. "You wouldn’t get it Miss, it’s Tim Burton aesthetic," she explained, eyes sparkling. A little odd, but you can’t help but chuckle at the sight.

Jeongyeon leans in with a playful grin. “They grow up so fast, don’t they?”

You nod, the bittersweet reality sinking in. “Yeah... bummer this is my last year with them.”

Before you can dwell on it, Jihyo chimes in from across the table, a mischievous glint in her eye as she winks at Sana. “Well, not for everyone. Some of us will still be following them.”

The comment catches you off guard, leaving you momentarily confused, but before you can respond, Dahyun cuts in with a flourish. “I’m sending all my energy to the high school nurse. They’re going to need it when this bunch shows up!”

Laughter fills the air, and the lighthearted teasing continues. Sana’s hand remains on your thigh, her fingers shifting to rub gentle circles on your lower back.

She leans a little closer, “I can’t wait for summer break,” she says, glancing at you with a soft smile. “Finally, we’ll have time to rest, recharge, and—” she pauses, her tone dripping with affection, “I’ll finally get to spend time with my girl.”

The second she finishes, a chorus of groans erupts from around the table.

“Oh, here we go again,” Jihyo sighs, rolling her eyes dramatically.

“Seriously?” Jeongyeon adds, shaking her head with an amused smirk. “Can’t we get through one meal without you two being all lovey-dovey?”

Even Dahyun joins in, mock-fanning herself. “So sweet it’s giving me cavities.”

Sana simply scrunches her nose and nudges you lightly, her eyes sparkling with love.

My sunshine that I love so much.

~~~

The campfire crackles as you get ready to set up for story time. Just as you arrange the last few details, the kids come bustling into the cabin, their faces alight with mischief.

Mina steps forward, holding something carefully in her hands. She gives you a shy smile before presenting a handmade card, decorated with bits of books, photos, and “Thank You” written in neat, colorful letters. Your heart swells at the sight of it.

You chuckle, shaking your head, when Nayeon speaks up next. “We’re gonna miss you so much! Our favourite librarian!” she says, leaning in, her bunny smile on full display. “We’ll make sure to ask Miss. Minatozaki for updates on you.”

You pause, confused. “Oh?”

Before Nayeon can answer, Momo chimes in, smirking. “Sana told us she’s coming with us to high school. She’ll be our teacher there!”

The room stills for a moment as you process the words. Sana, in high school? She never mentioned that.

“Yeah!” Tzuyu bounces excitedly. “She said she’ll follow us!”

A weight settles in your chest, but you push it aside for now. Smiling, you pull the kids in for a hug. “Thank you for the beautiful gift,” you say softly, holding them close.

The door opens, and Sana walks in, her eyes lighting up as soon as she sees you with the kids. “My sunshine and my favorite students,” she says warmly, her smile bright. The kids giggle, but you remain quiet, your mind stuck on what they just said.

“High school, huh?” you ask, your tone a little sharper than you intended.

Sana’s smile falters, sensing the shift. She quickly turns to the kids. “Why don’t you go help with the marshmallows outside?”

The kids rush out, arguing playfully about who will get to roast the first one, and you’re left standing with Sana.

Sensing the weight of your silence, she steps closer, reaching out to take your hand gently. You hesitate for a moment, but eventually let her hold it, feeling the familiar comfort in her touch. She gives your hand a soft squeeze, searching your face, and for a brief second, you squeeze back.

“Sana...” you start, trying to find the right words.

Before you can continue, she says quietly, “I wasn’t trying to keep it from you. I thought—”

You take a breath, whispering as you finally respond, “Look, I’m happy for you. It’s a big step in your career, a new chapter. Go for it.”

Sana’s eyes drop to your hand in hers, and though she’s still holding on, you can feel the tension growing. You offer a small smile, trying to reassure her.

“I just... need to go finish setting up for story time,” you say softly, pulling your hand from hers and stepping toward the door.

“y/n, wait!”

~~~

Story time had been a complete success. The kids were captivated (and petrified, thanks to Jeongyeon) by every word, huddled around the campfire as the horror story unfolded. Now, the cabin is quiet, save for the soft sounds of their peaceful breaths. You step inside to check on them one last time. Tzuyu is curled up in Nayeon’s arms, Mina’s head rests on Chaeyoung’s legs, and Momo is sprawled out in her usual starfish position, taking up an unnecessary amount of space on the bed.

You smile tenderly, a yawn creeping up on you as exhaustion from the long day finally settles in. Jeongyeon and Dahyun bid their goodnights, leaving for their own cabins while you stay behind to help Jihyo with the cleanup.

“Thanks for sticking around to help,” Jihyo whispers with a tired smile, stacking the last of the blankets.

“No problem. Just a bit more to go,” you reply, picking up a bucket of water to extinguish the dying fire outside.

As you step out into the cool night air, the stars twinkling above, you feel a gentle tug on your arm. Turning, you find Sana standing there, her eyes filled uncertainty.

“Can we talk?” she asks quietly, her voice barely louder than the soft rustling of the trees.

You set the bucket down, your heart heavy with everything left unsaid between you. Nodding, you let her pull you to the campfire.

Sana leads you to the glow of the campfire, where the night feels even quieter. She stops, turning to face you, her fingers still gently wrapped around your wrist.

She sighs, eyes searching yours. “I didn’t mean to keep you in the dark about... high school,” she says softly. Her voice wavers slightly, but she holds your gaze, her brow furrowed with concern.

You look at her, feeling the weight of her words settle in. “I just wish you would’ve told me,” you admit. “I mean, I’m happy for you, really. It’s a huge step. But... that’s something I needed to hear from you.”

Sana winces slightly at your words, her thumb absentmindedly tracing circles on your wrist. “I didn’t want to upset you. I just... I thought this was something we could figure out together later.”

You raise an eyebrow. “Later? Sana, they all knew before I did.”

Her lips part to respond, but she stops herself, dropping her gaze to the ground. She takes a breath before speaking again. “I didn’t realize how much it would hurt you. I just... I thought you’d be proud, and we’d find a way to make it work.”

Your heart softens at her words, but there’s still a dull ache in your chest. “It’s not that I’m not proud of you. You’re amazing. But we’ve always worked through things together. This feels like... you’re moving on without me.”

Sana’s eyes widen, and she quickly steps closer, her hands now cupping your face. “No, no, I’m not moving on without you. I could never do that. I was going to tell you, I promise, but everything happened so fast with the kids, and I thought... I thought I had time.”

You let out a quiet breath, leaning into her touch as she speaks. The sincerity in her voice is enough to make your frustration melt away just a little.

“I don’t want to lose us,” she whispers, her eyes searching yours again, filled with worry. “I want us to be okay.”

You nod, your hand coming up to rest on hers, squeezing gently. “We will be. We just... need to communicate better. No more surprises like this.”

Sana bites her lip, then nods quickly. “No more surprises.” She pulls you closer, resting her forehead against yours for a long moment.

“I love you,” she murmurs. “And I’ll figure out how to make this work for both of us.”

You close your eyes, taking in the moment, feeling the tension between you ease slightly. “I love you too,” you whisper back.

Sana’s hands slide from your cheeks to your nape. She leans in, her lips pressing against yours in a soft, lingering kiss. When she pulls back, her gaze is filled with nothing but love and sincerity.

"I love you," she whispers, her voice barely audible as she kisses you again. Another kiss follows, each one a little more insistent, like she’s trying to convey everything she feels through the tender brush of her lips.

"I love you," she repeats, her voice growing softer with every kiss. She peppers your face with them—your lips, your cheeks, the corner of your mouth—each one carrying the same words. "I love you... I love you."

You can’t help but smile between her kisses, your heart swelling as her warmth surrounds you. The tension from before dissolves completely, replaced by the reassurance of her love and the depth of her affection.

Sana finally pulls back just a fraction, her nose pressing against your cheek as she breathes out, “I love you,” one last time, her voice barely a whisper.

You close your eyes, soaking in the moment, feeling the world fade around you, leaving just the two of you standing there in the cool night air.

After a few heartbeats, you pull away slightly, your smile mirroring hers. “We’re going to be okay,” you say softly.

Sana nods, her hands still cradling your face as she smiles, eyes glistening. “Together,” she whispers.

~~~

Sana’s hands roam your back as she pulls you closer, her lips warm and insistent against yours. The soft hum of your office fades as you melt into the kiss, her familiar, teasing energy filling the space between you. Sana breaks away for a second, her breath tickling your skin as she whispers, "You know, we could just stay here... a little longer."

Her lips find your neck, and you let out a soft laugh, half-heartedly trying to push her away. "Sana, you’re terrible."

"Terribly in love," she murmurs, her hands slipping beneath the hem of your shirt as her lips brush against your collarbone. You tilt your head back, losing yourself in the moment until—

The phone rings.

With a groan, you reach for the receiver, catching Sana’s pout out of the corner of your eye. You press it to your ear, trying to steady your breath.

"Hello?"

"Y/N, stop kissing Sana in your office and get back to your library," Jihyo’s voice comes through, sharp but teasing.

You freeze, your face heating up. "W-What? I’m not—"

"You are," Jihyo cuts you off, a hint of amusement in her tone. "The entire high school is waiting for you to unlock the doors. Get moving!"

You glance at Sana, who’s biting her lip to keep from laughing. She leans in, mouthing, busted.

You roll your eyes, a grin tugging at your lips. "Right, right. I’ll be there in a minute," you say, before hanging up the phone.

Sana giggles, slipping her arms around your waist again. "Looks like we’ve been caught."

"Yeah, thanks to you," you laugh, giving her a playful shove. "Come on, we’ve got a school waiting."

Sana sighs dramatically, pressing a quick kiss to your lips before stepping back. "Fine, fine. But tonight," she says, winking as she heads for the door, "I’m not letting you escape."

You shake your head with a smile, grabbing your keys and following her out.

~~~

Extra

The group sits sprawled across their usual corner in the cafeteria, as if they own the place. Nayeon, perched in the center, knows she’s the it girl and doesn’t even try to hide it. She leans back in her chair, twirling a strand of hair around her finger as she flips through her phone. Her lips curve in a satisfied smile whenever someone from another table glances their way.

"Honestly," Nayeon says, voice dripping with dramatic flair, "I can’t help it if people want to be me."

Chaeyoung, who’s been doodling something vaguely surreal and definitely weird on a napkin, looks up with a snort. "Yeah, well, try being original for once." She holds up her drawing—a mishmash of creatures and odd geometric shapes. "Now this is what people should be looking at."

Nayeon squints at it and tilts her head. "Is that… a lizard playing guitar with a tree trunk?"

Chaeyoung beams proudly. "Close. It’s a frog shredding on an electric cactus."

Momo, sitting beside them, can barely keep her eyes open. Her head is resting in her arms on the table, and she groans sleepily. "Why are we talking so loud… Can’t we just take a nap? Lunch break is for resting, not arguing over frogs."

Tzuyu, towering over everyone, stifles a laugh as she listens to the banter. Even though she’s practically taller than half the faculty, to the others, she’s still the baby of the group. She reaches over to pat Momo’s head, as if soothing a child. "You’re always sleepy. Maybe if you didn’t stay up binge-watching food documentaries, you’d be awake enough to hear Chaeyoung’s masterpiece."

Momo grumbles, not lifting her head. "They’re calming. And educational. Unlike your jokes, Tzuyu."

Tzuyu, with her trademark deadpan expression, shrugs. "I make excellent jokes. You’re just too tired to appreciate them."

Chaeyoung leans back, grinning. "I’ll give you that. Tzuyu’s funnier than people give her credit for."

"But she’s still our baby," Nayeon teases, reaching over to pinch Tzuyu’s cheek. "Our little giant baby."

Tzuyu sighs dramatically, gently swatting Nayeon’s hand away. "I’m literally the tallest one here. And I’m not a baby."

"Aw, don’t worry," Momo mumbles sleepily, barely raising her head. "You’ll always be the group’s baby, no matter how tall you get."

Tzuyu rolls her eyes but doesn’t argue, knowing she’ll never win this battle. Instead, she reaches over to take a sip of her drink, pretending not to care.

Mina, who’s been quietly fiddling with her handheld gaming console throughout the entire conversation, finally chimes in. "I think we should all just get into gaming and forget about all this."

Chaeyoung leans over to peek at Mina’s screen. "What are you playing now? Is it that alien spaceship game again?"

Mina nods enthusiastically. "It’s the latest version. Way more levels, better graphics… It’s amazing."

Nayeon rolls her eyes affectionately. "You’re such a nerd, Mina. If you spent half as much time on your social life as you do on video games…"

Mina looks up, flashing a rare but dazzling smile. "But where’s the fun in that?"

Chaeyoung cackles, clearly on Mina’s side. "You tell her, Mina."

Momo, eyes still half-closed, raises a finger in the air. "I support Mina."

Tzuyu gives an approving nod. "I can get behind that too."

Nayeon sighs in mock defeat, flipping her hair over her shoulder. "Fine. I guess gaming is kind of cool. But you all better still bow down to your queen." She flashes her infamous bunny smile, knowing full well they never would—but it doesn’t matter. She’s the Nayeon, after all.

She scoffs, rolling her eyes playfully. “Funny coming from you. Don’t you remember last night?”

“You mean a couple of hours ago?” you reply, grinning. “I don’t think I was the needy one—you’ve left a number on me,” you say, pointing to the faint red marks on your neck.

Mina’s cheeks flush pink as she fumbles for a defense. "Well, it’s your fault," she mutters. "You sent me that picture while I was at the event."

You laugh softly. "It was literally just a good night selfie."

She groans, burying her face in the pillow. "You were in your robe, looking all cozy and good! What did you expect?"

You grin, leaning closer. "So, you admit it—you were the needy one after all."

Mina peeks out from the pillow, her cheeks flushed as she grins mischievously. “Fine, maybe I was,” she admits, her voice low and teasing. “It’s hard to control myself when my girl always looks this good.”

Her words send a rush through you, and before you can think, your lips are on hers. The kiss starts soft, but her fingers are already tangled in your hair, pulling you closer. The warmth of her mouth deepens the kiss, and soon, everything else fades away as you melt into her.

She shifts beneath you, tugging you on top of her as the kiss becomes more intense, her hands roaming over your back, making it hard to focus on anything but her touch.

When you finally pull away, breathless, your foreheads rest together, a grin spreading across your face. “I guess the bagels can wait.”

Mina laughs softly, her fingers brushing your cheek. “Definitely worth waiting for.”

~~~

After breakfast, the two of you wandered over to Bryant Park, sipping coffee beneath the trees, watching the city hum with life.

You spent the next hour window shopping along Fifth Avenue, admiring the elegant displays without any pressure to buy. There was only so much you could bring back home, but Mina’s eyes sparkled at every storefront, and you found yourself more captivated by her excitement than anything in the windows.

Now, you’re strolling through Central Park, hand in hand, the noise of the city fading away as you walk the winding paths. The soft rustle of leaves and distant laughter blend into the air as Mina leans into you, her arm wrapped around yours.

“So, you still want to head to DUMBO for the bridge view, right?” you ask, glancing at Mina over your sunglasses.

Her face lights up instantly. “Yes! Let’s call a taxi,” she says, already reaching for her phone.

“No way! Let’s do this right—let’s take the subway. The real New York experience.”

Mina hesitates, her excitement shifting to uncertainty as she raises an eyebrow. “The subway?” she repeats, a little unsure.

You give her hand a reassuring squeeze, so excited for the trip. “Yes! Trust me, it’ll be fun.”

She lets out a soft sigh, still unconvinced, but seeing the sparkle in your eyes, she can’t help but smile. “Fine,” she agrees, stepping closer. Her arm wraps around your waist, fingers lingering on your hip. “But only because you seem so into it,” she murmurs, pressing herself against your side, her warmth seeping into you.

You chuckle, your hand sliding to her lower back, pulling her in even tighter. “I promise, you won’t regret it.” You lean in, brushing a light kiss against her cheek.

~~~

The subway car sways gently as it rumbles along, packed with commuters and tourists. You and Mina are squeezed together in a corner, her warmth pressed against your side. Around you, the chaos of the subway unfolds: someone is doing chin-ups on the railing, drawing a few amused glances, while others are asleep in their seats or lost in music blaring from their speakers.

Mina leans in closer, her voice a whisper. “They’re staring at us.”

You glance up and muffle a laugh. “That’s because you’re staring at them, baby. Your sunglasses are see-through.”

Her cheeks flush with a hint of embarrassment as she quickly looks away, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “Shit! I didn’t mean to,” she hushes.

You give another glance at the two people across from you and something catches your eye. You squint and notice keychains with photocards. And that’s… Nayeon’s face?

"Onces…" you whisper to yourself, holding on to Mina’s hand tighter.

Just before you can tell Mina that they’re fans, she gasps and points at the window of the doors. You smile, enchanted by her reaction. She’s so cute as she admires the view of the city through the subway doors, as you pass over the Brooklyn Bridge. The contrast from the underground darkness to the stunning sunset hovering over the skyline is breathtaking.

"Baby, look! It’s beautiful!" She exclaims, hand over her mouth as she shakes you a little.

You sigh and nod, pushing your worries away. "It’s very pretty."

~~~

Later, you find yourselves sitting on a bench at Brooklyn Bridge Park, the quiet hum of the city settling around you like a soft blanket. The lights from the skyscrapers flicker in the distance, casting reflections on the calm waters.

Mina sits close, but you can sense something’s off. She’s fidgeting with her hands, her fingers twisting together in a nervous rhythm. You glance at her, about to ask what’s on her mind, but before you can speak, she breaks the silence.

“Do you think we’d be happier in another life? A normal one?”

You frown, confused. “What?”

She hesitates for a second, looking down at her hands before continuing. “I just… I wonder what it’d be like to live a normal life. Not an idol. No eyes on us all the time.” Her voice softens, tinged with a sadness you rarely hear. “I knew those people in the subway recognized me. I could see it in their faces. And I saw how you tensed up, too.”

You shift uncomfortably, realizing she had noticed your own worry.

She sighs, her gaze drifting out over the city. “I just wonder if things would be easier, better, without the spotlight. Without everyone always watching.”

You stay quiet for a moment, letting her words sink in as the city hums in the background. The weight of what she’s feeling lingers between you, heavy and familiar. You reach over and gently take her fidgeting hands in yours, giving them a soft squeeze.

“Mina,” you say quietly, your voice steady, “I know it’s hard. Sometimes it feels like the whole world is watching. But I don’t think another life would make us happier.”

She turns her head slightly, her eyes searching yours, but you continue before she can say anything.

“You’ve worked so hard to get where you are, and yeah, it comes with all this pressure, but it also brought so much joy. To you, to your fans, and to me.” You offer her a small smile. “You’re not just an idol. You’re you. And even though people recognize you, that doesn’t mean you can’t find peace or moments like this.”

Her expression softens, though the hint of doubt still lingers in her eyes.

“I know it’s not easy,” you continue, brushing a thumb across her hand, “but I wouldn’t trade this life with you for anything.”

Mina blinks, her eyes glassy as she bites her lip. She leans in, resting her head on your shoulder, her breath steadying. “I don’t know what I’d do without you,” she whispers.

“You’ll never have to find out,” you reply, pressing a soft kiss to the top of her head. “We’ve got each other. And no matter what, we’ll find our own kind of normal.”

I love you so much.

Mina squeezes your hand back, her fidgeting finally stopping as the tension melts away.

After a few more moments of peace, you nudge her gently. “Pizza?”

She lifts her head, blinking up at you before a small laugh escapes her lips. “Yeah,” she says softly, a smile finally breaking through. “Pizza sounds perfect.”

“And we’re definitely trying pineapple on it this time,” you add with a grin.

She scrunches her nose, groaning playfully. “Ugh, yuck… Fine, baby. But only because it’s you.”