Untitled

The soft golden light of sunrise filtered through the sheer curtains of your bedroom, casting a warm glow over the chaos you'd created.

Clothes were scattered across the floor, skincare products lined up on your desk, and your open suitcase sat like a gaping mouth waiting to be fed.

It was barely 6:15 AM, and the house was already alive with the sounds of your mom calling out instructions from downstairs.

You stood in the middle of the mess, tossing another pair of denim shorts into the suitcase while Riki lounged on the edge of your bed like he had zero worries in the world.

He looked unfairly good for this early hour. ash blonde hair with sandy blonde undertones tousled just right, that signature silver streak catching the light. he wore an oversized Chrome Hearts hoodie, the cross necklace you loved dangling against his chest, baggy black cargos, and a couple of silver rings on his long fingers.

To everyone else, Nishimura Riki was the definition of a bad boy— nonchalant, cocky, always pushing boundaries. but here, in your house, he played the role of the perfect, polite boyfriend flawlessly.

Riki tilted his head, watching you with an amused smirk.

"Babe… you're actually packing right now?" he asked, voice low and teasing. "we're leaving in like two hours, dwarf. i packed everything a week ago."

You shot him a glare over your shoulder, grabbing a stack of bikinis. "and? not everyone is obsessed with being early like you, Riki. chill."

He let out a quiet laugh, leaning back on his elbows. "nah, i'm just responsible. you've been hyping this beach cabin trip for two months straight and you're still throwing random shit in a suitcase at the last minute. classic dwarf behavior."

"Call me dwarf one more time and i'm throwing this straight at your head" you warned, holding up a hairbrush.

Riki grinned, completely unfazed. "dwarf."

You threw the hairbrush. he dodged it effortlessly, laughing under his breath as it landed on the bed beside him.

"See? violent. this is why you need me around— to keep you in check" he said, picking up the brush and tossing it back to you lightly. "hurry up though, for real. your mom's gonna lose her mind if we're late."

Before you could reply, the door opened and Seonghyun —your 13-year-old brother— shuffled inside, still in his pajamas, hair a complete disaster, eyes barely open.

"Mom's already screaming downstairs" he groaned, immediately collapsing face-first onto your bed like it was his personal territory. "she said if you're not done in ten minutes she's dragging you out by your hair."

Riki reached over and ruffled Seonghyun's messy hair with a smirk. "told you, dwarf. even the kid knows you're slacking."

Seonghyun lifted his head, grinning as he looked between you two. 'Yeah. Riki-hyung finished packing forever ago. he showed me his suitcase yesterday. everything was folded and organized. yours looks like a bomb went off."

You crossed your arms, staring at the two boys now teaming up against you. "oh, so this is how it's gonna be? you two ganging up on me at six in the morning?"

Riki shrugged innocently, that cocky smirk still firmly in place. "we're just stating facts. you've had two months to prepare and you're doing this now? crazy work."

Seonghyun nodded enthusiastically, still sprawled across your bed. "mom's gonna yell at you so bad. she already told me to bring my suitcase down ten minutes ago. Riki-hyung helped me zip it."

You threw another shirt— this time at your brother. "traitor. go help Mom instead of lying on my bed like you pay rent here."

"But it's comfy" Seonghyun whined dramatically, hugging your pillow. "and Riki-hyung is right. you always do this. last time we went to grandma's you forgot your phone charger and cried the whole way there."

Riki laughed quietly, clearly enjoying himself way too much. "see? even your little brother remembers. you're such a silly girl sometimes, dwarf."

You pointed at him. "you're supposed to be on my side, idiot."

"Nah" he replied in a lazy tone "i'm on the side of truth. and the truth is you suck at packing."

Seonghyun snickered into the pillow. "burn."

You rolled your eyes so hard it hurt. "both of you can leave my room if you're just gonna bully me. especially you, Riki. Mr. 'i don't care about anything' but somehow super excited to be stuck in a beach cabin with my entire family for two weeks."

Riki raised an eyebrow, the teasing glint in his eyes sharpening. "what? can't a guy be excited to spend time with his girlfriend's family? your parents like me. i'm charming."

"Yeah, because you fake it so well" you muttered, stuffing more clothes into the suitcase. "out in the streets you're all bad boy this, tattoos that… but the second my dad walks in you turn into 'yes sir, no sir, would you like help with the bags sir?'"

Seonghyun sat up suddenly. "wait, is that true? Riki-hyung, are you fake?"

Riki shrugged, completely unbothered. "gotta make a good impression, kid. your sister's the real menace here."

"Menace?" you scoffed, zipping your suitcase with more force than necessary. "you literally got three new tattoos after your mom told you not to. you're the definition of shameless."

"And you love it" he shot back with a wink, voice low enough that Seonghyun didn’t catch the full tone.

Your brother groaned loudly. "ew, stop flirting. i'm literally right here."

The sound of your mom's voice echoed up the stairs again. "Seonghyun! come down and help with the coolers! and tell your sister if she's not ready in five minutes we're leaving without her!"

Seonghyun jumped up dramatically. "told you! good luck, sis. Riki-hyung, save me a seat in the car."

"Bet" Riki replied, doing a small fist bump with the younger boy as he left.

Once the door clicked shut, Riki stood up and walked over to you. he placed his hands on your waist from behind, chin resting on your shoulder for a moment as you tried to close the overfilled suitcase.

"You're really testing me already, dwarf" he murmured, amusement clear in his voice. "two weeks with your family around… and you're gonna keep being a brat the whole time, huh?"

You leaned back into him just slightly, smirking. "maybe. what are you gonna do about it?"

He pressed a quick, soft kiss to the side of your neck before pulling away, ever careful not to get too handsy with your family awake and moving around. "you'll see. now finish packing before your mom actually comes up here and drags both of us downstairs."

You finally managed to zip the suitcase. Riki, ever the gentleman when it mattered, lifted it effortlessly for you.

"Ready?" he asked, that signature nonchalant expression back on his face.

You nodded, grabbing your backpack. "let's go before i change my mind and stay home just to annoy you."

He chuckled, opening the door for you. "after you, dwarf."

As you both headed downstairs, the chaos of your family preparing for the trip filled the air— your dad loading the car, your mom organizing snacks, Seonghyun complaining about having to sit in the back seat again. Riki slipped seamlessly into his well-behaved boyfriend role, greeting your parents politely and offering to help carry more bags.

But every time he passed by you, that mischievous glint in his eyes promised that the real Riki— the teasing, relentless one —was waiting for the right moment.

The entire family was already loaded up and waiting in the driveway when you finally dragged your last bag outside. your dad was behind the wheel, checking the time on the dashboard for the third time.

Your mom was in the passenger seat organizing snacks and drinks. Seonghyun had already claimed the right back seat, and Riki was sitting behind your mom, long legs stretched out as much as possible.

You took your sweet time putting the final bag in the trunk.

"Babe, come on" Riki called out the open window, sounding amused. "we're all waiting on you, dwarf."

"I'm coming, i'm coming!" you replied, rolling your eyes as you finally climbed into the car, squeezing between Seonghyun and Riki in the back seat.

The second you closed the door, your dad sighed loudly and started reversing out of the driveway.

"Finally" he muttered, half-joking but clearly a little annoyed. "we were supposed to leave at 6:30. it's almost 7:15. one day you're going to make us miss a flight or something."

Seonghyun immediately jumped in. "yeah, dad's right. you always do this."

Riki leaned forward slightly, resting his elbows on his knees, that signature lazy smirk on his face. "for real. i told her upstairs she was gonna be late. she still took forever, sir."

Your jaw dropped as you looked between the three of them. "are you serious right now? all of you are seriously attacking me? i had to make sure i didn't forget anything!"

Your dad chuckled, eyes on the road. "sweetheart, you've had two months to pack. we all packed days ago."

"Exactly" Riki added smoothly, glancing at you with teasing eyes. "even i packed early, and i'm not even part of the family yet."

Seonghyun snickered. "Riki-hyung packed a week ago. he's more prepared than you."

You turned and smacked Riki's thigh lightly with the back of your hand. "you're supposed to be on my side, idiot! why are you agreeing with them?"

Riki laughed quietly, rubbing the spot you hit even though it didn't hurt. "i'm just being honest, dwarf. you can't get mad at me for telling the truth."

Another smack to his leg. "you're the worst boyfriend ever. i hate you.”

"No you don't" he replied cockily, dodging your next playful hit. "you love me. stop hitting me, baby."

Seonghyun was full-on laughing now, leaning forward to look at you. "she's so mad. look at her face! Riki-hyung, she's gonna explode."

"Mom, help me out here" you complained, smacking Riki's arm this time. "you're literally my boyfriend. act like it."

Riki grinned, completely unfazed. "nah, i'm switzerland. neutral. except you're clearly wrong in this situation, dwarf."

"Two against one!" Seonghyun cheered. "actually three against one if you count Dad."

Your dad laughed from the front seat. "i'm staying out of this. but yes, you were late, kiddo."

You groaned dramatically and crossed your arms, sinking deeper into the seat. "i can't believe this. my own family and my boyfriend turning on me. this vacation is cursed already."

The car fell into a comfortable rhythm as your dad merged onto the highway.

The beach was around 100 km away — roughly an hour and twenty minutes if traffic was decent. golden morning light streamed through the windows, and the distant sound of music played low from the radio.

After a few minutes of peaceful silence, Riki nudged your knee with his.

"You still mad, dwarf?" he asked, voice low and teasing.

"Yes" you huffed, turning your head away from him to look out the window.

He leaned closer, shoulder brushing yours. "c'mon, don't be like that. you know i'm just messing with you."

You ignored him.

Seonghyun, sensing an opportunity, joined in again. "she's giving you the silent treatment already, hyung. that's a new record."

Riki chuckled. "she'll crack in like five minutes. watch."

You whipped your head around. "i can hear you two, you know."

Both boys started laughing. Seonghyun reached over and poked your arm. "she's so easy to annoy."

"Stop it" you whined, swatting his hand away before turning to smack Riki's leg again. "and you— you're supposed to defend me! not team up with my little brother!"

Riki caught your wrist gently before you could hit him a third time, his long fingers wrapping around it. "quit hitting me, dwarf. i'm driving-safe here."

"You're not even driving!" you shot back.

"Still. respect your elders" he said with a straight face.

"You're only five months older than me, dumbass."

Seonghyun burst out laughing again. "she called you dumbass. Mom, did you hear that?"

Your mom turned slightly in her seat. "you three better behave back there. we still have over an hour left. i don't want to hear constant fighting the whole way."

Riki instantly switched modes. his posture straightened, voice turning polite and smooth. "sorry, Ms. mom, we're just playing around. we'll quiet down."

Your mom smiled, satisfied. "thank you, Riki. at least one of you has manners."

The second your mom turned back around, Riki looked at you with the most devilish little smirk, mouthing "told you" before leaning back casually.

You narrowed your eyes at him. "fake" you whispered.

He just winked.

For the next twenty minutes the car was relatively calm. your dad talked with your mom about directions and where to stop for coffee.

Seonghyun put his earbuds in and started playing games on his phone. you scrolled through your own phone until Riki's hand found its way to your thigh, resting there innocently under the cover of the blanket your mom had tossed back earlier.

He squeezed once — not enough for anyone to notice, but enough to make you glance at him.

"Still mad at me, babe?" he whispered, barely moving his lips.

"You're annoying" you whispered back.

"Yeah, but you like it."

You tried to hide your smile and failed. Riki noticed immediately and smirked, giving your thigh another light squeeze before pulling his hand back like the perfect gentleman.

The drive had taken a little over an hour and twenty minutes, but the moment your dad turned onto the quiet coastal road, the view opened up.

The beach cabin sat right near the shore, elevated slightly on wooden stilts with a wide deck overlooking the ocean. The smell of salt and sea air hit you instantly as soon as the car doors opened — thick, refreshing, and impossible to ignore.

"Wow…" you breathed out, stepping onto the wooden path leading to the front door.

"Not bad" Riki said casually, but you could see the spark in his eyes. He was excited, even if he tried to play it cool.

Your dad unlocked the front door and everyone started unloading the suitcases, leaving most of them piled near the entrance for now. the inside of the cabin was beautiful — light wooden walls, big windows letting in natural light, and that constant sound of waves in the background.

"Alright, let's check out the rooms first" your mom suggested, already taking charge.

There was one large master bedroom with its own bathroom — obviously for your parents — and two smaller but still cozy bedrooms down the hall.

Seonghyun immediately sprinted toward one of the smaller rooms and threw himself onto the bed with a loud bounce.

"This one's mine!" he yelled, spreading his arms and legs like a starfish. "it's so cool! look at the little window, i can see the ocean from here!"

Riki walked into the room after him, nodding slowly like some kind of interior design expert. he crossed his arms, tilting his head as he inspected the space.

"Yeah, this layout is nice" he said thoughtfully. "good natural light. smart use of space." he glanced at your dad, who was doing the exact same thing in the hallway. Riki copied the motion perfectly, mirroring your dad's posture and serious expression. "very well designed, sir. i like the wooden details.”

Your dad smiled, clearly pleased. "right? the pictures online didn't do it justice."

You had to bite your lip to stop yourself from laughing at how obviously Riki was trying to impress him.

Your mom, however, was already in full organization mode.

"Enough sightseeing for now" she called out. "let's get all the suitcases inside first. food goes in the kitchen, clothes in the rooms. Seonghyun, stop jumping on the bed and help carry things!"

"But Mommm" Seonghyun whined dramatically from his new bed. "can't we go to the beach first? we've been in the car forever!"

"No. unpack first, beach later" your mom said firmly. "now move."

Riki immediately switched back into perfect-boyfriend mode. "i'll start bringing the heavier bags in, Ms. Mom"

You both grabbed a couple of suitcases and headed toward the second smaller room — the one that would be yours and Riki's for the trip. the moment you stepped inside and closed the door halfway, Riki's entire demeanor changed.

He quickly glanced toward the hallway, checking if your parents were in sight. when he confirmed they weren't, he pushed you against the wall with a smooth motion, one hand on your waist, the other cupping the back of your neck as he kissed you hard.

His tongue slipped into your mouth instantly, deep and hungry, like he'd been waiting hours for this. both of his hands slid down to grab your ass roughly, squeezing hard as he pressed his body against yours.

You gasped into the kiss, pushing at his chest. "Riki— stop" you whispered frantically against his lips. "my parents are literally right outside."

He smirked against your mouth, squeezing your ass again, pulling you tighter against him.

"So?" he murmured, voice low and cocky. "they're busy. i've been stuck in a car with you for over an hour acting like a saint. i deserve this, babe."

You turned your head when he tried to kiss you again. "you're so stupid. what if my mom walks in?"

Riki chuckled quietly, clearly enjoying how panicked you were getting. he leaned in and bit your bottom lip teasingly before finally pulling back, hands still resting on your hips.

"Relax. you're acting like we're committing a crime." he stepped away casually, grabbing one of the suitcases like nothing had happened. but the smirk on his face was pure trouble.

You tried to fix your hair, heart still racing. "you're actually insane."

He glanced out the large window that faced the ocean, the waves sparkling under the morning sun. a dangerous little smile spread across his lips.

"Damn… what a nice view" he said, loud enough for you to hear but not too loud. then he turned to you with that signature teasing glint. "you'd look real pretty like that, you know? on all fours, ass up, looking out at the sea while i fuck you from behind. bet the view would be even better with you moaning my name."

Your eyes widened in horror. "Riki!" you hissed, rushing over to smack his arm. "shut the fuck up! what if someone hears you?"

He laughed, that low, shameless sound, clearly loving how worked up you were getting. "relax, dwarf. you're so easy to scare. your face right now is priceless."

"You're such an asshole" you whispered angrily, cheeks burning. "i'm actually going to kill you on this trip."

"Yeah?" He stepped closer again, towering over you "keep talking like that and i'll give you a reason to scream my name for real. see how quiet you can stay then."

You shoved his chest, trying to ignore the way your stomach flipped. "my brother is literally in the next room and my parents are unpacking. behave."

Riki raised his hands in mock surrender, but the smirk never left his face. "fine, fine. i'll behave… for now." he picked up another bag, heading toward the closet. "but two weeks is a long time, good luck keeping me in check."

From the hallway, your mom's voice called out again. "kids? how are you doing with the bags?"

Riki instantly straightened up, putting on his polite mask. "almost done, Ms. Mom, we're organizing everything."

You stared at him in disbelief. "fake ass" you muttered under your breath.

He winked at you over his shoulder. "only for them. for you? i'm keeping it real."

Seonghyun's voice echoed from his room. "Mom! can we go to the beach now? i'm dying here!"

The chaos of the family vacation had officially begun, and Riki was already testing every limit he could find — especially yours.

A little while later, after all the suitcases had been dragged into the rooms and the kitchen supplies were mostly put away, you and Riki were finally organizing the last of your clothes in the closet of your shared bedroom.

You folded a stack of shorts while Riki hung up his hoodies, moving with that effortless coolness he always had. from the kitchen, you could hear your mom's voice rising slightly.

"I told you to close the bread bag properly, honey. now it's going to get stale by tomorrow!" your mom complained.

Your dad sigh "it's just bread. we'll finish it before then."

"It's the principle! if you don't close it, the air gets in—"

Riki glanced toward the half-open door and let out a quiet laugh, shaking his head. he stepped closer to you, voice low so only you could hear.

"Wow… she really sounds exactly like you when you're nagging me about shit" he teased, that signature smirk on his lips. "same tone and everything. you're literally mini-Mom, dwarf."

You whipped around and smacked his arm playfully. "shut up, Riki. i do not sound like that."

He rubbed his arm dramatically even though you barely hit him. "you kinda do though. 'Riki, you left your shoes in the middle of the room again!'" he said, imitating your voice. "sound familiar?"

You hit his arm again, harder this time. "i said shut up! you're so annoying."

Riki laughed under his breath, catching your wrist before you could smack him a third time. "you love hitting me. violent ass."

Before you could reply, Seonghyun appeared in the doorway, already changed into swim trunks and a tank top, bouncing with energy.

"Mom and Dad are fighting over bread" he announced, rolling his eyes. "this is so boring. can we please go to the beach now? i've been waiting forever!"

Riki immediately nodded, ruffling the younger boy's hair like the cool older brother he pretended to be. "i'm down, bro. beach sounds good. we've been stuck inside long enough."

Seonghyun's face lit up. he turned to you impatiently. "hurry up then! just grab anything and let's go! i wanna build sandcastles and go in the water."

You looked down at your clothes. "i still need to change—"

Riki cut you off with a lazy grin. "don't worry about it, shortie. i'll help her get dressed real quick."

Seonghyun made a disgusted face instantly. "eww! gross. i don't need to know that. i'm leaving!" he turned and practically ran down the hallway, yelling over his shoulder "hurry up or i'm going without you!"

The second Seonghyun disappeared, Riki closed the bedroom door halfway and turned to you with a completely different look in his eyes.

"Get changed, dwarf" he said, leaning against the wall, arms crossed as he watched you openly.

You rolled your eyes but went to your suitcase anyway.

You pulled out the bikini you had packed specifically to mess with him — a tiny black string bikini with delicate gold accents. the top was barely more than two small triangles that tied around your neck and back, while the bottoms were low-rise with thin strings on the sides that showed a lot of skin.

It was cheeky, borderline scandalous, and you knew it would drive him crazy.

You changed quickly behind the half-closed closet door, then stepped out.

Riki went completely still when he saw you. His eyes dragged slowly down your body, lingering on your chest, your waist, and the way the bottoms sat high on your hips, exposing the curve of your ass.

"Fuck…" he muttered under his breath, pushing off the wall. "you really wore that on purpose, didn't you?"

You gave him an innocent smile, doing a little spin. "what? it's just a bikini. we're at the beach."

He stepped closer, voice dropping. "that's not a bikini, that's a fucking weapon. your ass is barely covered, babe. i'm gonna have to fight myself the whole time we're out there."

"Good" you said sweetly, poking his chest. "maybe you'll finally lose that fake calm attitude."

Riki's jaw clenched, but he smirked. he reached out and tugged lightly on one of the strings at your hip. "you're such a brat. keep playing games and i'll drag you back in here and fuck the attitude out of you while your family's right outside."

You pushed his hand away, trying to hide how his words affected you. "you wish. now stop staring and let's go before Seonghyun comes back complaining."

He groaned quietly but grabbed two towels anyway. before you left the room, he leaned down close to your ear.

"Just know that if i act weird out there… it's your fault for wearing that tiny ass thing."

You smirked and walked out first, swaying your hips a little more than necessary.

The three of you headed down to the beach together. Seonghyun ran ahead excitedly, already kicking off his sandals the second his feet hit the sand.

The ocean was beautiful — clear turquoise water, gentle waves, and soft golden sand stretching out in both directions. not too many people around since it was still early in the day.

Seonghyun turned back to you both. "come on! let's go in the water!"

Riki adjusted his sunglasses, trying (and failing) to keep his eyes off you in that bikini. every time the breeze moved, the strings shifted slightly, and you could practically feel the tension radiating from him.

"You good, Riki?" you asked innocently, tilting your head.

He gave you a tight smile. "Yeah. i'm great."

Seonghyun looked between you two suspiciously. "you guys are being weird again."

Riki quickly recovered, throwing an arm around the younger boy's shoulders. "nah, we're good. race you to the water?"

Seonghyun's competitive side won immediately. "you're on!"

As the two boys sprinted toward the waves, you couldn't help but smile. Riki was playing the perfect role— cool, fun, responsible older boyfriend —but you knew the second he got you alone, that patience he was barely holding onto was going to snap.

And you were going to enjoy pushing him until it did.

The sun was high in the sky by the time you and Riki wandered further into the ocean. Seonghyun had found a group of kids his age and was already fully occupied — screaming, splashing, and building a massive sand fortress with them.

For the first time since arriving, you and Riki had a small moment of semi-privacy.

The water reached just above your waists, the gentle waves rocking your bodies softly. Riki moved behind you and wrapped his long arms around your waist, pulling your back flush against his chest. his skin was warm from the sun, wet and smooth against yours.

He pressed soft, slow kisses along your bare shoulder, then up the side of your neck, savoring the taste of salt on your skin.

"Fuck, baby…" he murmured lowly against your ear, voice husky. "you look insane in this bikini. literally got me rock hard under these shorts right now."

You let out a soft laugh, leaning your head back against his shoulder. "you're so dramatic."

"i'm serious" he whispered, kissing right below your ear. "been trying to hide it since you walked out wearing basically nothing. i miss you already… even though you're right here. you're too fucking pretty, baby. makes me wanna do bad things to you."

His hands stroked your waist under the water, thumbs brushing the strings of your bikini bottoms. he kept kissing your neck lazily, occasionally nipping at the skin just enough to make you shiver.

"You really wore this tiny thing just to mess with me, didn't you?" he continued, voice low and teasing. "such a little brat. you know exactly what you do to me."

You turned your head slightly, smiling. "maybe. is it working?"

"Too well" he groaned quietly, pressing his hips forward so you could feel how hard he was against your ass. "if your brother wasn't twenty meters away i'd already be inside you."

You turned around in his arms to face him, the water lapping between your bodies. Riki's eyes were dark despite the bright sunlight.

You cupped his face and kissed him slowly, deeply. it wasn't rushed or desperate — just hungry. your tongues moved together lazily, savoring each other while the waves pushed you closer.

His hands stayed on your waist, occasionally sliding down to squeeze your ass under the water.

After a long minute you pulled back, breathing a little heavier. "i'm starting to get hungry…"

Riki hummed, still brushing his nose against yours. "yeah, me too. your mom's probably got something ready by now. it's like… noon already."

You both reluctantly separated and waved Seonghyun over. he came running, dripping wet and grinning ear to ear.

"We're gonna go eat something" Riki told him. "stay close to the other kids and don't go too deep, okay? come back to the cabin in a bit when you're hungry."

"Yeah, yeah" Seonghyun said, already turning back to his new friends. "i'll come later!"

When you got back to the cabin, the sensation of dry sand sticking to your wet skin immediately made you grimace.

"Ugh, i hate this feeling" you complained, brushing sand off your arms. "i'm gonna shower real quick."

Riki raised an eyebrow. "already? we're probably getting back in the water after lunch. doesn't make sense to shower now."

You crossed your arms. "i don't care. i hate feeling sticky. i'm showering."

Your dad, who had just returned from checking on Seonghyun, simply shook his head with a small smile and headed back outside, choosing not to get involved.

Your mom, however, overheard from the kitchen and sighed. "you two, stop bickering so much. it's only the first day."

Riki instantly put on his polite mask, smiling sweetly at your mom. "we're not fighting, Ms. mom, it's just a small exchange of ideas. healthy communication, right?"

You rolled your eyes so hard it was almost painful. "fake" you muttered under your breath as you walked toward the bathroom.

Your mom chuckled. "Riki, you're not allowed to go in the bathroom with her. i'm watching you" she teased lightly.

Riki laughed innocently. "i just wanna make sure she's okay. i'll be quick."

The second you both entered the bathroom, the energy shifted completely.

You started pulling out a fresh towel and your shower products while Riki leaned against the sink, eyes locked on you.

"Do you need anything before i get in?" you asked, turning on the water to let it warm up.

"Nah" he said, voice dropping. he stepped closer, closing the door carefully so it barely made a sound. "but my dick hurts from watching you walk around in that bikini all morning, babe. for real."

Before you could respond, Riki had you pressed against the bathroom counter, kissing you deeply. his hands roamed down your body, tugging at the strings of your bikini bottoms.

"Riki… my parents are right outside" you whispered, even as you kissed him back.

"I know" he murmured against your lips, smirking. "that's why we're being quiet."

He pulled your bikini bottoms down just enough to expose you, he lowered his beach shorts, then pressed his hard cock right against your bare pussy.

He started grinding slowly, the fabric creating delicious friction as he pressed you against the counter.

"Fuck… you're already wet" he groaned softly, one hand covering your mouth gently.

You whimpered against his palm as he rolled his hips harder, the thick outline of his cock sliding between your folds, rubbing perfectly against your clit with every movement.

Riki leaned down, biting your neck softly while he kept grinding. "look at you… letting me fuck you like this..."

You moaned quietly into his hand, thighs trembling.

"Shhh" he whispered, eyes dark with lust. "gotta stay still, baby. can't have your mom hearing how well you take my cock into your little cunt..."

Riki watched your face intently, that cocky little smirk never leaving his lips even as his breathing grew heavier.

"Turn around" he ordered quietly, voice rough with need. "i wanna see that ass while i grind on you."

You hesitated for half a second, heart racing at the risk. your mom was literally cooking in the kitchen just down the hall, and your dad could come back inside any moment.

But the heat in Riki's eyes made you obey. you turned around, placing your hands on the bathroom counter and arching your back slightly, pushing your ass toward him.

"Fuck… that's it" he groaned under his breath.

He stepped right behind you, pressing his still-hard cock between your ass cheeks.

He started grinding again, slow and deliberate, the thick ridge of his cock sliding back and forth against your bare pussy. the fabric of his shorts was rough and warm from the sun, creating that filthy friction you both craved.

Riki's hands moved up your body, sliding under the tiny triangles of your bikini top. he cupped your breasts fully, squeezing them roughly as he continued rolling his hips against your ass.

"These tits look so good in this bikini" he murmured, voice low right next to your ear. "been wanting to play with them all morning, baby."

He kneaded your breasts greedily, thumbs brushing over your hardened nipples before pinching them lightly.

Every time he rolled his hips forward, his cock pressed harder between your thighs, the head nudging against your clit with each thrust. the wet sounds of fabric rubbing against your soaked pussy filled the small bathroom, dangerously loud in your ears.

You bit your lip hard, trying to stay quiet. "Riki… we can't be too loud" you whispered, voice shaky.

He chuckled darkly, giving your breasts another firm squeeze before tugging your nipples again. "then stop moaning like a slut, baby. you're the one who wore this tiny bikini all morning knowing it would make me like this."

He kept grinding harder, faster now, one hand staying on your chest while the other gripped your hip tightly, pulling you back against him with every roll of his hips.

The mirror in front of you showed everything — your flushed face, his tall frame behind you, the way his hand disappeared under your bikini top to play with your tits.

"Look at yourself" he whispered, biting your shoulder lightly. "look how fucking pretty you are letting me use you like this. ass out, letting me hump you right before lunch while your mom's cooking."

You whimpered, pushing back against him, desperate for more friction. Riki groaned quietly and pinched your nipple harder, rolling it between his fingers as he kept thrusting his cock between your thighs.

"God, you're so wet" he breathed, voice strained. "such a messy little brat. you love this, don't you? getting touched and humped while your family's right outside?"

He suddenly grabbed both of your breasts with both hands, squeezing them together as he grinded harder, almost desperately.

His hips snapped forward with more force, the wet rubbing sound becoming faster and filthier.

"Riki—" you gasped, trying to keep your voice down.

"Shhh" he warned, one hand quickly moving up to cover your mouth. "quiet, babe. you're gonna get us caught."

Even with his hand over your mouth, he didn't stop.

He kept humping you relentlessly, cock sliding between your soaked folds, the head catching perfectly against your clit every single time. his other hand stayed on your chest, playing with your tits, squeezing and tugging until your eyes fluttered.

"You're so fucking soft… so perfect" he muttered against your neck, leaving wet kisses along your skin. "i could cum just like this. rubbing my cock on this pretty pussy without even putting it in."

Your legs were trembling. the combination of his dirty words, the constant pressure on your clit, and his hands playing with your breasts was pushing you dangerously close to the edge.

Riki felt it. he smiled against your shoulder, grinding harder.

"You close already?" he teased, voice cocky even while breathing heavily. "gonna cum on my cock like this, baby? with all your clothes still on and your family waiting for lunch?"

Riki's hips kept snapping forward, grinding his hard cock against your soaked pussy.

"You're so close, aren't you?" he whispered hotly against your ear. "i can feel you dripping all over me, babe. cum for me. be a good little slut and cum just like this."

The filthy words combined with the constant pressure on your clit finally pushed you over the edge.

Your orgasm hit hard.

Your thighs shook violently as you came, moaning desperately into his palm. your eyes rolled back and your walls clenched around nothing while Riki kept grinding through it, prolonging every second of your pleasure.

He didn't stop moving until your body went limp against the counter, breathing heavily.

Only then did he slowly remove his hand from your mouth.

You stayed silent for a few seconds, catching your breath… until the brat in you woke up again.

You turned around and pushed his chest, glaring at him. "Get out."

Riki blinked, still clearly hard and breathing heavily. "What?"

"I said get out" you repeated, fixing your bikini top. "i told you i wanted to shower. you always do this — you push and push until you get what you want and now i'm all messy. leave."

He let out a low, amused laugh. "you're actually kicking me out after you just came all over my dick? wow. Cold."

"Yes. Out. Now" you said, pointing at the door, trying to hide your smirk.

Riki shook his head, that cocky little smile still on his face. "such a fucking brat. fine. enjoy your shower, dwarf."

He adjusted his shorts as best as he could and slipped out of the bathroom quietly, closing the door behind him.

Ten minutes later, after a proper shower and washing all the sand and salt off your body, you changed into something comfortable: loose gray pijama shorts and a simple black cropped tank top. your hair was still slightly damp as you walked into the kitchen.

The sight that greeted you made you pause.

Riki was shirtless, his toned torso and tattoos on full display, leaning casually against the kitchen counter while talking to your mom. he looked completely relaxed, like the perfect son-in-law.

"…and yeah, i've been practicing a lot more lately" Riki said, smiling politely. "the choreography is really challenging but i enjoy it. your daughter actually helps me a lot with memorizing the counts."

Your mom laughed warmly as she stirred something on the stove. "really? she's usually so impatient with people."

"Nah, she's actually really patient with me" Riki replied smoothly, the lie rolling off his tongue effortlessly. "she's a good teacher. i'm really lucky, Ms. Mom, you raised an amazing girl."

Your mom looked absolutely delighted. "oh, Riki… you're such a sweet boy. i keep telling her how lucky she is to have you."

You walked over and stood right next to him, crossing your arms.

"If you keep walking around without a shirt and with those wet shorts, i'm going to throw something at you" you said, half-joking but also slightly annoyed.

Your mom turned around immediately. "leave him alone, honey. it's hot outside and he just came back from the beach. let the boy be comfortable."

Riki grinned, looking at you with fake innocence. "exactly. let me be free, dwarf."

You rolled your eyes so hard it hurt. "you're impossible."

Your stomach growled loudly, reminding you how hungry you actually were.

"Mom, i'm starving" you complained, leaning against the counter. "what are you making? it smells really good."

As you spoke to your mom, Riki took advantage of the moment.

While your mom had her back turned to stir the food, he slowly dragged his hand up the back of your bare thigh, squeezing the soft flesh teasingly. his eyes stayed on your mom, pretending to listen, but the corner of his mouth twitched when he felt you tense up.

You shot him a warning glare.

He just bit his bottom lip for a second, eyes darkening as he gave your thigh one last possessive squeeze before pulling his hand away right before your mom turned around again.

"Pasta salad and some grilled fish" your mom answered cheerfully. "it'll be ready in ten minutes. go call your brother and father if they're back."

Riki nodded politely. "i can go get them if you want, Ms. Mom"

Your mom smiled brightly. "would you? you're such a helpful young man."

As soon as your mom turned back to the stove, Riki leaned down close to your ear, whispering so quietly only you could hear:

"Still wet from earlier, baby? or was that shower enough for you?"

You elbowed him hard in the ribs.

He just chuckled softly and walked out of the kitchen like the perfect gentleman, calling out for your dad and Seonghyun as if nothing had happened.

You stared at his back, equal parts annoyed and turned on.

This vacation was only just beginning, and Riki was clearly planning to make it very, very difficult for you to stay sane.

Riki headed out to the beach to fetch your dad and Seonghyun while you helped your mom set the table. the moment the boys were out of earshot, your mom turned to you with a knowing little smile.

"You know… Riki is such a good boy" she said, stirring the pasta salad one last time. "polite, helpful, handsome. i really like him for you. i hope you two last a long time."

You felt your cheeks heat up. "Mom…"

"I'm serious" she continued, lowering her voice a bit. "he looks at you like you hung the stars. and the way he talks to your father? perfect. just… be careful, okay? i'm not asking for grandchildren anytime soon, so if you two are already doing things, please be responsible."

"Mom!" you hissed, mortified. you covered your face with your hands. "can we not talk about this right now?"

Your mom laughed softly. "i'm just saying. you're both young and hormonal. just be smart."

You gave her short nods and mumbled responses. "yeah… okay… i know… can we please stop?"

Thankfully, the sound of the front door opening saved you. Seonghyun burst in first, absolutely covered head to toe in sand. it was in his hair, stuck to his arms, and trailing behind him on the wooden floor.

Your mom gasped. "Seonghyun! look at the floor! we just cleaned!"

You groaned. "seriously? you're leaving a sand trail everywhere!"

Seonghyun just grinned sheepishly. "sorry… but the sandcastles were awesome!"

Riki and your dad walked in behind him. for a brief second, both of them looked at each other with the exact same tired but fond expression — the universal look of men dealing with their loud, dramatic women.

It was weirdly wholesome from an outside perspective.

Seonghyun kicked off his sandals. "i'm gonna rinse off real quick and then i'm starving. also—" he turned to Riki with a proud grin, "—i talked to a really pretty girl at the beach. she said my sandcastle was cool."

Riki grinned and gave him a fist bump. "that's my boy. did you get her name?"

"Yeah! her name's Mina."

You reached over and smacked Riki's arm. "don't encourage him! he's thirteen."

Riki just made a silly face at you, completely used to your hits at this point. "relax, dwarf. let the kid live."

Seonghyun laughed and ran off to the bathroom.

Riki disappeared into your room for a few minutes and came back wearing dry black sweatpants and a loose white t-shirt.

His hair was messy and stiff from the sea salt, making him look even more effortlessly handsome in that messy, bad-boy way.

Soon, everyone was seated at the big wooden dining table. your dad had insisted on sitting next to you ("i barely see my daughter these days"), so you were on his right. Seonghyun sat next to Riki, and your mom took the head of the table.

After everyone bowed their heads and your dad said a short prayer, you all started eating.

Riki didn’t waste any time turning on the charm.

"Ms. Mom, this is actually insane" he said after the first bite, eyes wide with genuine appreciation. "the seasoning is perfect. i don't know how you do it every time."

Your mom beamed. "oh stop it, you flatterer."

"I'm serious" Riki continued, sounding like a 40-year-old man. "the balance of flavors… incredible. and this cabin? the natural light in here is really well thought out. great ventilation too. you chose the perfect spot, sir" he added, nodding respectfully at your dad.

Your dad chuckled. "glad you like it, son. the humidity can get bad near the coast, but this place handles it nicely."

"Exactly" Riki agreed, launching into a surprisingly detailed conversation about coastal architecture and weather patterns with your dad.

You watched him across the table — hair messy, talking politely with your parents, teasing Seonghyun every now and then with that easy smile — and felt a rush of heat.

He looked stupidly good. Domestic. like he belonged here with your family.

Under the table, you slowly lifted your bare foot and pressed it directly against the front of his sweatpants, right over his crotch.

Riki's words faltered mid-sentence.

"—and the… uh, the airflow is—" he cleared his throat, quickly recovering. "the airflow is probably excellent during the summer months."

He shot you a sharp look across the table, but you just smiled innocently and took another bite of pasta, pressing your foot harder against him. you could feel him starting to harden under your sole.

Riki kept talking like nothing was happening, though his ears turned slightly red.

He even managed to crack a joke with Seonghyun about building a bigger sandcastle tomorrow, all while your foot continued teasing him under the table.

Riki subtly reached under the table once, grabbing your ankle in warning for a second… but he didn't push your foot away. instead, his thumb stroked your skin once before letting go, like he was both annoyed and turned on.

You pressed down again, rubbing slowly.

He bit the inside of his cheek, jaw tightening, but kept that perfect polite smile on his face while talking to your mom about her cooking.

While Riki kept up his perfect-boyfriend act — chatting with your dad about the weather, complimenting your mom's cooking, and joking lightly with Seonghyun — your bare foot never stopped teasing him under the table.

You rubbed slowly, pressed down firmly, even curled your toes over the growing bulge in his sweatpants. every time he tried to shift away, you followed.

At one point, the stimulation became too much.

A tiny, breathy whimper escaped Riki's throat before he could stop it. he quickly tried to cover it with a cough, but it was too late.

Your mom turned immediately, concerned. "Riki, honey, are you okay? did you choke?"

Riki cleared his throat, ears bright red as he gave her a sheepish smile. "ah, sorry Ms. Mom, i'm fine. i was just really hungry and eating too fast. my bad."

Your mom chuckled. "slow down, sweetheart. there's plenty more."

You looked straight at him across the table with the most smug, victorious little smile. your eyes practically screamed: if you want to play risky games, i'll play with something much worse.

Riki narrowed his eyes at you, jaw clenched, but the corner of his mouth twitched like he was both furious and impressed.

When everyone finally finished eating, you slowly withdrew your foot and slipped it back into your slipper like nothing had happened.

Riki let out a long, controlled breath. his chest was rising and falling a little faster than normal, and you could see the clear frustration in his eyes.

"i'll clear the table" he offered smoothly, already standing up.

"i'll help" you said sweetly, standing right after him.

Your parents started talking about adult things— bills, work, and some neighbor drama back home —while Seonghyun jumped up excitedly.

"I'm gonna get my Nintendo! Mina said she has Tomodachi Life too. i'll be back later!" he sprinted to his room, sand still somehow falling from his hair.

Now it was just you and Riki in the kitchen.

He started washing the dishes while you dried them and put them away. for a few minutes you worked in silence, shoulders brushing every now and then. then Riki spoke, voice extremely low so only you could hear.

"You're actually insane" he muttered, scrubbing a plate harder than necessary. "you had your foot on my dick the entire lunch while i was talking to your dad. i almost came in my pants like a fucking loser."

You smiled innocently, stacking clean plates. "you started it in the bathroom earlier. i was just finishing what you began."

Riki glanced toward the living room to make sure your parents weren't listening, then leaned slightly closer.

"When that door closes tonight…" he whispered, voice dark and full of promise, "i'm not gonna be nice, love. i'm gonna bend you over that bed and fuck the attitude right out of you. gonna make you cry on my cock while you try so hard to stay quiet."

You felt heat rush through your body, but you refused to show it.

He continued, voice even lower, almost a growl. "gonna stuff that pretty mouth with my fingers when you get too loud. spank that ass red for teasing me all day. and when i finally cum… i'm filling you up until it's dripping down your thighs. you're not sleeping until i'm done ruining you."

Your hands trembled slightly as you dried a glass.

Riki smirked, noticing. "what's wrong, baby? you were so bold under the table. cat got your tongue now?"

You bumped his hip with yours. "you talk so much shit for someone who whimpered like a puppy ten minutes ago."

He let out a quiet laugh, shaking his head. "keep running that mouth. we'll see how loud you are tonight when i'm actually inside you.”

You handed him another plate, smiling sweetly. "we'll see if you can even last that long, big guy."

Riki turned his head to look at you, eyes burning with lust and challenge.

"Oh, i'm lasting" he murmured. "the only question is whether you can handle what i'm saving up for you."

The tension between you two was thick enough to cut with a knife. the sun was still bright outside, but night suddenly felt dangerously close.

And Riki looked like he was counting down every single hour until he could finally get you alone.

The afternoon sun bathed the beach in warm golden light as the day slowly drifted toward evening. after spending time in the water earlier, you and Riki decided to stay on the sand this time.

You set up a large striped umbrella and laid out a thick beach towel beneath it. your parents and Seonghyun were further down, enjoying the waves and laughing loudly.

Riki reclined against the towel, propped up on his elbows, wearing dark sunglasses that hid his sharp eyes. you sat between his legs, back resting comfortably against his chest, sipping on a cold energy drink while mindlessly scrolling through tiktok.

The sound of waves crashing, distant laughter, and seagulls filled the air. it was peaceful.

For approximately three minutes.

Riki's patience ran out quickly. he leaned forward, resting his chin on your shoulder, his breath warm against your skin.

"What are you watching?" he asked, voice low and curious.

You didn't answer, too focused on a video.

He waited five seconds before reaching around you and snatching the phone straight from your hands.

"Riki!" you yelped, immediately trying to grab it back. "give it to me, you idiot!"

He held the phone high above his head, a lazy smirk spreading across his lips. "nah. you've been ignoring me for like ten minutes straight. what's so interesting on there?"

You stretched your arm desperately, but he was much taller.

Every time you reached higher, your face got closer to his. the tension was palpable — if either of you moved just a few centimeters more, your lips would meet.

"Riki, i swear to God, give me my phone back. i was watching tiktoks!" you whined, half-annoyed, half-laughing.

He tilted his head, clearly enjoying your struggle. "then pay the fee, dwarf. one kiss and i'll return it."

You glared at him. "you're so annoying."

"And you're so dramatic" he shot back, smirking. "c'mon. one little kiss. i've been good all day."

Instead of kissing him, you reached down and pinched the skin on his thigh hard.

"Ow— fuck!" Riki hissed, instinctively lowering his arm from the pain.

You snatched your phone back triumphantly and hugged it to your chest. "that's what you get."

Riki rubbed his thigh, pretending to be hurt. "you're actually violent. i'm telling your mom you abuse me daily. this is domestic terrorism."

You laughed and finally leaned in, giving him a soft, lingering kiss on the lips. he tried to deepen it, but you pulled away quickly, smiling smugly.

"Happy now?" you asked.

Riki licked his lips, eyes hidden behind his sunglasses. "barely. but i'll take what i can get… for now."

By 5 PM, the sun had softened into a beautiful amber glow. you and Riki told your family you were going to buy ice cream and some cold drinks. your parents nodded distractedly while Seonghyun was busy showing off his sandcastle to other kids.

The walk toward the small tourist market was calm and breezy.

The streets were lively — full of people enjoying their vacations. as you walked hand-in-hand with Riki, it was impossible not to notice how many girls turned their heads to stare at him.

Tall, handsome, tattoos peeking from under his shirt, effortless swagger… he was hard to miss.

You, on the other hand, were still in your loose pajama shorts and silly cartoon plastic slippers.

"I'm so embarrassed" you muttered, looking down at your feet. "everyone is staring and i look like i just rolled out of bed."

Riki glanced down at you and chuckled, squeezing your hand. "you look cute. stop overthinking it."

"Cute? i look homeless" you groaned.

He stopped walking for a second, turning to face you properly. "for real, you look hot. only a real baddie can walk around in cartoon slippers and pajama shorts like it's a fashion statement. you're serving looks, dwarf. own it."

You rolled your eyes but couldn't hide your smile. "you're such a smooth talker when you want something."

Inside the busy market, Riki kept your hand in his the entire time as you browsed the freezer section, picking out different flavors of ice cream and cold beverages.

The store was packed with tourists, and the air conditioning felt amazing against your sun-warmed skin.

While you waited in line at the checkout, you shifted uncomfortably.

"My legs hurt" you complained softly.

Riki raised an eyebrow, amused. "we literally walked just fifteen minutes, baby."

"And? they hurt now."

He teased you for a bit longer, calling you spoiled and dramatic, but when you stepped outside with the bags, he crouched down in front of you without another complaint.

"Hop on."

You climbed onto his back happily, wrapping your arms around his broad shoulders. Riki hooked his hands under your thighs, lifting you with ease as he began the walk back to the cabin. the bags of snacks hung from his fingers.

"You're actually really heavy" he teased, though his voice showed no strain.

"Liar. you love carrying me."

"Yeah… maybe i do" he admitted quietly, adjusting his grip on your thighs. "even if you're a pain in the ass."

The sunset painted the sky in soft pinks and oranges as Riki carried you along the beach path.

You rested your cheek against his shoulder, breathing in his now familiar scent mixed with sea salt and sunscreen.

For a few peaceful minutes, everything felt perfect.

By the time you and Riki reached the cabin, the sky had turned a soft orange-pink. it was already 6:05 PM. the moment Riki stepped onto the wooden porch with you still on his back, the delicious smell of dinner cooking floated out through the open windows.

Your mom was in the kitchen, wearing an apron, humming while stirring something on the stove. your dad's voice could be heard singing off-key from the shower.

in the living room, Seonghyun was sitting on the floor with two other kids from the beach and a shy-looking girl— Mina —playing cards and laughing loudly.

Your mom turned when she heard the door and immediately smiled at the sight of Riki carrying you.

"Oh my goodness" she laughed. "look at this. did you buy ice cream or did you buy a whole wife?"

Riki grinned, adjusting his grip on your thighs. "she said her legs were tired, Ms. mom, i'm just being a responsible boyfriend."

He carefully lowered you to the floor, but not before pressing a soft, sweet kiss to your forehead right in front of your mom. then he replied with the same playful energy:

"What can i say? she's spoiled. But i don't mind carrying her everywhere."

You elbowed him lightly before turning to your mom. "it smells really good in here. what are you making?"

"Grilled chiken, some fried rice, and vegetables. nothing too heavy since we had a big lunch" she answered proudly. "it should be ready in about forty minutes."

Before you could say anything else, Seonghyun came running over the second he spotted Riki. he grabbed his arm and pulled him down to whisper something in his ear, looking extremely proud of himself.

"Riki-hyung… Mina kissed me on the cheek while we were playing truth or dare" he whispered excitedly.

Riki's eyes widened before he broke into a big smile. he gave Seonghyun a fist bump and ruffled his hair.

"That's my boy, see? i told you you're cool. did you blush or play it cool?"

"I played it cool… i think" Seonghyun said, though his cheeks were clearly pink just talking about it.

You couldn't help yourself. you crossed your arms and said loud enough for both of them to hear:

"If only she knew that you bathe once a week, Seonghyun."

Seonghyun gasped dramatically, looking genuinely offended. "hey! that's not true!"

Riki placed a hand on his chest, pretending to be deeply hurt. "wow. you're attacking both of us now? he's just a kid, dwarf. let him live. do you hate us? are we really that disgusting to you?"

Seonghyun nodded vigorously beside him. "yeah! we're clean!"

You rolled your eyes and smacked Riki's arm again.

Without warning, Riki bent down, grabbed you around the waist, and effortlessly threw you over his shoulder in an "air prison" your upper body hanging down his back.

"Riki!" you squealed, laughing and kicking your legs. "put me down, you idiot!"

"Nope. this is what you get for being violent all day" he said, chuckling as he walked around the living room with you over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. "you hit me too much, dwarf. i'm starting to think you enjoy it."

You reached up and tugged his hair hard, pulling his head back.

"Ow— okay, okay!" he laughed.

To get revenge, Riki turned his head and bit the side of your waist— not too hard, but enough to leave a clear teeth mark on your skin, hidden under your shirt.

You yelped. "Ouch, Riki!"

He finally put you down, smirking like the devil he was. you glared at him and immediately turned toward the kitchen.

"Mom! your future son-in-law is biting me!"

Your mom looked over from the stove and just laughed warmly, a nostalgic sparkle in her eyes as she watched the two of you.

"Ah… young love" she said softly, shaking her head with a fond smile.

"You two remind me so much of your father and me when we were your age. always fighting, always playing… but couldn't stay away from each other for five minutes."

Riki wrapped an arm around your shoulders, pulling you against his side while smiling innocently at your mom.

"Don't worry, Ms. Mom, i can handle her. she's just a little violent sometimes."

You stepped on his foot.

He didn’t even flinch — just looked down at you with a dangerous little smirk only you could see.

Your mom turned back to the stove, still smiling to herself, completely unaware of the tension simmering between you two.

The sun was setting fast.

The table was full and lively by 7 PM. Seonghyun had begged to invite Mina for dinner, and your parents happily agreed.

The young girl sat shyly beside him, while everyone else took their seats. for the first time that day, Riki was finally sitting right next to you. his thigh pressed lightly against yours under the table.

Your dad cleared his throat. "Alright, let's pray."

Everyone bowed their heads as your dad said a short but heartfelt prayer, thanking God for the vacation, the food, and the family time. Seonghyun even added a quick "and thank you for Mina too" at the end, making the girl blush.

The moment everyone said "amen" the clinking of utensils began.

Riki didn't even let you take two bites before he reached over with his chopsticks and stole a big piece of grilled chicken from your plate.

"Hey!" you hissed, immediately reaching up and tugging his ear. "calm down, you thief!"

Riki winced but smiled, turning his head toward your mom with the most dramatic, innocent eyes.

"Ms. Mom, look what your daughter does to me" he complained playfully. "she's so abusive."

Your dad jumped in immediately. "sweetheart, don't pull his ear like that. poor Riki is a guest."

Both you and your mom turned to look at your dad at the same time, wearing the exact same sharp, unimpressed expression.

The similarity in your temperaments was almost comical.

Your dad blinked, suddenly aware of the double glare. "...what? i'm just saying."

Your mom raised an eyebrow. "he stole her food."

You nodded. "exactly."

Your dad tried to salvage the moment with a classic dad joke. "well… at least he's not stealing her heart. that already happened years ago!"

Dead silence.

No one laughed.

Riki, ever the perfect boyfriend, immediately burst into laughter like it was the funniest thing he'd ever heard. "that's a good one, sir!"

Seonghyun followed his hyung's lead and started laughing too. Mina, seeing everyone else laugh, let out a shy giggle as well.

You raised your eyebrows, staring at your dad. "is there an inside joke in that joke that i didn't understand? because that was terrible."

Riki was still chuckling as he leaned over and kissed your cheek sweetly. "let your dad have his moment, dwarf."

You immediately smacked his thigh under the table. Riki just smiled wider, clearly happy and unfazed, like he lived for your little acts of violence.

The rest of dinner went smoothly.

Riki continued being the ideal guest — complimenting the food again, asking your dad about fishing spots nearby, and occasionally teasing Seonghyun and Mina in a harmless big-brother way.

He fit into your family so naturally it was almost scary.

After everyone finished eating, your mom and dad stood up first to clear the table.

You and Riki moved to the living room sofa. you immediately laid down, resting your head comfortably on Riki's lap. his fingers found your hair right away, gently playing with the strands.

Your mom called from the kitchen while washing dishes. "when i finish here, we should go buy some beach toys for tomorrow morning! shovels, buckets, maybe a ball…"

Seonghyun groaned from the floor where he was playing with his Nintendo. "but Mom… i want to keep playing with my friends. Mina already went back to her cabin."

Your dad's voice came from the hallway. "don't argue with your mother, Seonghyun. we're going."

Seonghyun sighed dramatically but nodded. "fine…"

Your mom peeked out from the kitchen, smiling. "what about you two? do you want to come with us to buy the toys?"

You opened your mouth to answer, but Riki beat you to it.

"No need to worry, Ms. Mom" he said smoothly, a playful grin on his face. "we'll stay and guard the cabin from nocturnal intruders… also known as crabs."

You immediately sat up a little. "crabs? really? that's the best excuse you could come up with?"

Your mom laughed warmly. "well, someone has to protect us from the dangerous crabs."

Your dad walked by, drying his hands. "just behave, you two. we won't be long."

Riki nodded respectfully. "we'll be good, sir."

As soon as your parents turned away, Riki's hand returned to your hair, stroking it slowly. his fingers were gentle, but the look in his eyes when they met yours was anything but.

There was heat behind them — dark, patient, and full of promise.

He leaned down slightly, brushing his lips against your forehead while continuing to caress your hair.

The front door closed behind your family a few minutes later, leaving the cabin quiet except for the distant sound of waves.

His fingers tightened just slightly in your hair, a silent warning of everything he had been holding back all day.

The cabin changed completely.

You felt Riki's intense gaze on you and knew exactly what was coming. before he could even say anything, you jumped up from the sofa with a mischievous grin.

"Catch me if you can, slowpoke" you taunted, sticking your tongue out at him before bolting toward your shared bedroom.

Riki let out a long, frustrated sigh, but the smirk on his face showed he was more than amused.

"Really? you're gonna run now?" he called after you, already standing up. "after teasing me all damn day?"

You laughed as you ran into the bedroom, kicking off your slippers and jumping onto the bed. you grabbed two pillows and hurled them at him the moment he appeared in the doorway.

Riki caught both effortlessly and tossed them back onto the bed. "cute. real mature, dwarf."

He stepped inside and closed the door behind him.

Then he slowly approached the bed like a predator. you tried to scramble away, but he grabbed your ankle and yanked you back, making you fall onto your back with a surprised squeak.

Riki climbed onto the bed carefully, hovering over you without fully trapping you, giving you one last chance to escape if you really wanted to.

You didn't.

Instead, you turned your head to look at him over your shoulder, wearing that signature bratty, wicked little smile.

Riki exhaled through his nose, eyes dark. he leaned down and kissed your cheek tenderly, then moved to your jaw, your neck, your collarbone.

"You make everything so fucking difficult for me" he murmured against your skin, slowly pushing your shirt up with both hands. "all day long… acting like a little angel in front of your family while driving me crazy."

His large hands slid under your shirt and cupped your bare breasts, massaging them firmly as he kissed and sucked on your neck.

You let out a soft breathy sound. "Riki… they could come back any minute. this is still risky—"

"I know" he whispered, pinching your nipples lightly. "that's why it's gonna be a quickie. just a fast one, baby. i need you so bad right now.”

You couldn't help but tease him even as he played with your chest. "look at you… so needy. all because i had my foot on your dick during lunch?"

Riki growled and bit down on the side of your neck, hard enough to make you gasp.

"That's your fault" he said against your skin, voice rough. "you kept rubbing me under the table like a little slut while i was talking to your dad. i've been hard for hours because of you."

With one smooth motion, he flipped you onto all fours, keeping you in position so you were facing the large window that overlooked the dark ocean. the moon reflected beautifully on the waves.

You let out a surprised moan at the sudden movement.

"Riki— hurry up" you whined, pushing your ass back against him.

He chuckled darkly, running his hands over your ass before slowly pulling your shorts and panties down just enough to expose you. he left them around your thighs, keeping you partially restricted.

"Fuck… look at you" he groaned, biting his lower lip as he stared. his fingers traced over your soaked pussy.

He freed his hard cock, already leaking, and pressed the thick head against your wet pussy, rubbing it back and forth slowly, teasing you.

You moaned louder, pushing back.

"Shhh" he warned, one hand covering your mouth gently. "quiet, baby. or i'll stop."

He continued rubbing his cock against your wet cunt, the head catching on your clit with every stroke. the friction was driving you insane.

"Please…" you whimpered.

Riki leaned over your back, lips brushing your ear.

"You want it?" he asked, voice low and cocky. "want me to fuck you like this while your family could catch us?"

"Yes— just do it already."

He finally pushed in deep in one smooth motion, burying himself completely inside you.

You moaned loudly into his hand. Riki groaned, gripping your hip tightly with his free hand as he started fucking you hard from behind.

"Fuck— so tight" he breathed, snapping his hips against your ass. "this is what you get for teasing me all day, baby. take it."

He kept one hand over your mouth to muffle your sounds while the other gripped your hip, pulling you back onto his cock with every rough thrust. the sound of skin slapping skin mixed with the distant waves outside the window.

Riki leaned down again, biting your shoulder as he pounded into you.

"You feel so fucking good… i've been thinking about this all day" he growled. "gonna fuck you fast and deep, okay? just how my needy little brat likes it."

He kept you firmly in position, hips snapping relentlessly, the angle making him hit deep every single time. His breathing was ragged, but he never stopped talking.

"Tell me how much you wanted this too" he demanded softly, moving his hand from your mouth to let you speak.

"I wanted it…" you moaned, pushing back against him. "harder, Riki—"

He smirked and obeyed, fucking you even rougher, the bed creaking under you both.

"Good girl."

Riki's hips snapped against your ass with a steady, rough rhythm, the wet sound of skin slapping skin echoing softly in the bedroom.

He kept you firmly on all fours, one hand gripping your hip while the other occasionally delivered sharp, stinging spanks to your ass.

"Fuck— Riki…" you moaned, pushing back against him. "right there… please—"

"Yeah? you want it right there, baby?" he growled, spanking you again. "little brat. teasing me all day and now you're begging for my cock like this."

He thrust deeper, hitting that perfect spot inside you with every stroke. your eyes fluttered as you gripped the sheets tightly.

"I hate you…" you whimpered between moans, "but don't stop— ah— fuck, right there—"

Riki chuckled darkly and leaned over your back, biting your shoulder. "you don't hate me. you love getting fucked like a little whore while your family's out."

He kept pounding into you for what felt like forever but was only around five intense minutes — rough, deep, and desperate. the angle made everything feel overwhelming. you were getting louder, too lost in the pleasure.

Suddenly, you heard the front door of the cabin open.

"Shit— Riki, stop!" you gasped, grabbing his hand. "they're back—"

Riki only smiled, that dangerous, teasing smirk spreading across his face.

Instead of stopping, he pressed his large hand over your mouth again and pushed your upper body down into the mattress, forcing you into a prone bone position.

"Shhh" he whispered against your ear, still buried deep inside you. "not yet, baby."

He continued fucking you, but slower and deeper now, grinding against your ass to minimize the sound of skin slapping.

The new angle made his cock press even harder against your most sensitive spots with every roll of his hips. the friction was devastating.

Your eyes rolled back as you moaned desperately into his palm.

"Mmm—!" you cried, muffled.

"Quiet, babe" he breathed, still moving inside you. "you hear that? your mom's asking where we are."

From the hallway, your mom's voice carried clearly:

"Honey? Riki? where are you two?"

Your dad answered from somewhere near the living room. "they're probably in their room. Seonghyun, don't run off too far— stay close to the bonfire!"

Seonghyun's excited voice faded as he ran outside to play with the other kids.

Riki kept grinding into you slowly but intensely, his cock dragging against every sensitive inch inside you.

You were shaking, tears of overstimulation and frustration pricking your eyes as you tried so hard to stay silent.

He leaned down, lips brushing your ear. "you're clenching so hard around me… you like this, don't you? getting fucked while your parents are right outside?"

You nodded frantically, moaning into his hand.

Riki gave one last deep, slow thrust before letting out a frustrated groan. he reluctantly pulled out of you, breathing hard.

Neither of you had finished.

"Fuck…" he muttered, clearly annoyed.

He quickly pulled up his boxers and sweatpants, then helped you.

He gently slid your panties and shorts back up your legs, fixing them carefully even though his hands were still shaking with need.

"Come here" he said softly, sitting on the edge of the bed.

You crawled to him immediately, face flushed red and breathing uneven. you hid your face in his chest, one hand tracing lazy lines down his abdomen.

Riki wrapped his arms around you, holding you close as he tried to calm his breathing.

He reached under the pillow, pulled out his phone, and pretended to scroll through it.

A few seconds later, there was a soft knock on the door.

"Come in" Riki called, voice surprisingly steady.

Your mom opened the door with a smile, holding a couple of beach bags. she saw you cuddled up against Riki's chest and her expression softened.

"We got everything for tomorrow" she said cheerfully. "there's a water park with games and slides nearby. we thought it would be fun. are you two tired already?"

Riki smiled politely, one hand still gently stroking your back. "a little bit. but that sounds fun, Ms. Mom"

You kept your face buried in Riki's chest, cheeks burning bright red. you were sure your expression would give everything away if she saw you properly.

Your mom chuckled softly. "alright, rest up then. we'll leave around 9 tomorrow morning. goodnight, you two."

"Goodnight" Riki replied smoothly.

The moment the door closed, you let out a long, frustrated breath against his chest.

Riki sighed too, tilting his head back.

“No, I’m serious!” You gesture wildly, nearly sloshing your drink. “Like, is it really that fucking hard to find the clit? Is basic anatomy that complicated?”

“Here we go,” Jay groans again from the floor, leaning back against Sunghoon’s legs. They’re playing some racing game on mute while everyone else talks over them. Reina cackles. “Who are we talking about?”

“That guy from Delta Sig I went home with last weekend.” You take a long drink. “Forty-five minutes of the most mediocre dick of my life and he had the audacity to ask if I came.”

“Did you fake it?” Liv asks, already knowing the answer.

“Fuck no. I told him the truth and he got all butthurt about it.” You roll your eyes. “Like sorry bro, maybe develop some skills.”

“Brutal,” Sunoo says, grinning as he passes the joint to Niki.

“Honest,” you correct. “I don’t have time to protect egos. If you can’t make me cum, I’m not gonna lie about it.”

Across the room, Jungwon is watching you with this amused smirk, one eyebrow raised. He’s been quiet most of the night, nursing the same beer, legs spread wide in that infuriatingly confident way guys sit when they know they look good. And he does look good—black t-shirt, gray sweatpants, hair falling into his eyes just right. “What?” you challenge, catching his stare.

“Nothing.” But his smirk deepens. “Just sounds like you’ve been picking the wrong guys.”

“Oh please.” You lean forward. “Like you’d be any different.”

Something shifts in his expression. His eyes darken, and he tilts his head slightly, studying you. “Want me to prove it?”

The room doesn’t exactly go quiet, but you feel like it does. Your stomach does this weird flip. “Prove what?” You keep your voice steady even though your heart is suddenly racing.

“That you’ve been fucking the wrong guys.” He says it so casually, like he’s commenting on the weather. But there’s nothing casual about the way he’s looking at you.

Reina makes a choking sound beside you. Someone—maybe Heeseung—mutters “oh shit” under their breath. You should laugh it off. Make a joke. Change the subject. But you’re drunk enough to be bold and curious enough to wonder if he’s all talk. “You’re that confident?” You raise an eyebrow.

“Yeah.” No hesitation. “I am.”

The challenge hangs in the air between you. You’re aware of everyone watching, waiting to see what you’ll do. Maya’s eyes are wide. Jay looks like he’s trying to figure out if he should intervene. “Okay.” You stand up, and Jungwon’s smirk falters for just a second—like he didn’t expect you to actually take him up on it. “Prove it.”

You start walking toward the hallway that leads to Jake’s bedroom, and after a beat, you hear Jungwon follow.

“Are they really—” someone starts.

“Yup,” Reina says, and she sounds absolutely delighted.

Jake’s bedroom is dark and quiet, muffled music and laughter filtering through the door. You flip on the lamp, suddenly aware that you’re alone with Jungwon and you just agreed to let him— “You don’t have to,” he says, and when you turn, he’s standing close but not crowding you. “If you were just calling my bluff.”

“Were you bluffing?”

“No.”

The word sends heat straight through you. You step closer, tilting your chin up to meet his eyes. “Then stop talking and do it.”

For a second he just looks at you, and then his hand comes up to cup your jaw, thumb brushing your cheekbone. “You sure?”

“Jungwon.” You grab his shirt. “I swear to god, if you’re going to do it, then—” He kisses you. Not rough, not tentative—just sure. Like he knows exactly what he’s doing, and honestly? The confidence is already working for you. His lips are soft and he tastes like beer and something minty, and when his tongue slides against yours, you make a sound you’ll probably be embarrassed about later.

But he groans in response, walking you backward until your legs hit the bed. You fall onto it and he follows, hovering over you, one hand planted by your head while the other slides under your shirt. “This okay?” he murmurs against your mouth.

“Yes, fuck—yes.”

His hand skims up your ribs, thumb brushing the underside of your breast through your bralette, and you arch into the touch. He’s taking his time, kissing along your jaw, down your neck, finding that spot behind your ear that makes you gasp. “Sensitive here?” he asks, sounding pleased.

“Shut up.”

He laughs, low and warm against your skin. “You’re mouthy.”

“You have no idea.”

“Guess I’ll find out.” He sits back and pulls his shirt off in one smooth motion, and—okay. Okay. You knew he was lean but you didn’t know he looked like that without clothes. He catches you staring and smirks. “See something you like?”

“Don’t get cocky.”

“Too late.” But his hands are gentle as he reaches for the hem of your shirt, waiting for you to nod before pulling it off. Your bralette follows, and then his mouth is on your breast and coherent thought gets significantly harder.

He’s good at this. The guy knows what he’s doing with his tongue, circling your nipple before sucking it into his mouth, teeth grazing just enough to make you squirm. His hand works your other breast, thumb and forefinger rolling and pinching until you’re panting. “Jungwon—”

“Hmm?” He switches sides, giving your other breast the same attention, and you thread your fingers through his hair and tug.

“Stop teasing.”

“I’m not teasing.” He looks up at you through his lashes, and the sight of him between your breasts does something to you. “I’m being thorough.” His hand trails down your stomach, fingers playing with the button of your jeans. “Can I?”

“Yes, god, yes.”

He unbuttons them slowly—too slowly—and slides them down your legs along with your underwear. You’re completely naked and he’s still half-dressed, and something about that makes you feel exposed in a way that’s not entirely uncomfortable. Jungwon sits back on his heels, just looking at you, and you fight the urge to cover yourself. “Stop staring.”

“Can’t help it.” His hands slide up your thighs, pushing them apart. “You’re so fucking pretty.” The praise makes your face heat. You’re not used to guys taking their time like this, looking at you like you’re something worth savoring.

“Let me know if anything doesn’t feel good,” he says, and then his mouth is on your inner thigh, kissing and biting a path upward until his breath is ghosting over where you need him most.

The first touch of his tongue is light—experimental. He licks a broad stripe up your center and you gasp, hips jerking. His hands grip your thighs, holding you steady as he does it again, more pressure this time. “Fuck,” you breathe.

He hums against you, and the vibration makes your toes curl. Then he finds your clit with the tip of his tongue, circling it slowly, and—oh. Oh.

You’ve had guys go down on you before. Most of them acted like it was a chore, something to rush through to get to the “main event.” But Jungwon is eating you out like he has all the time in the world, like he’s enjoying it as much as you are.

He alternates between broad strokes and focused attention on your clit, reading your body’s reactions—when you moan, when your hips buck, when your thighs start to tremble. And when he slides one finger inside you, crooking it just right while his tongue works your clit, you actually see stars. “Holy shit,” you gasp, one hand fisted in his hair, the other gripping the sheets.

He adds a second finger, stretching you, and the combination of his mouth and his fingers pumping into you is almost too much. You’re making sounds you’ve never made before, completely uninhibited, and he’s groaning against you like getting you off is getting him off. “Jungwon, I’m—fuck, I’m close—”

He doesn’t change what he’s doing. Doesn’t speed up or switch techniques like so many guys do right when you’re on the edge. He just keeps that same perfect rhythm, fingers curling inside you, tongue circling your clit, and you come harder than you ever have with another person. Your whole body goes taut, thighs clamping around his head as waves of pleasure crash over you. He works you through it, only lightening his touch when you start to squirm from sensitivity.

When you can finally breathe again, you look down to find him watching you with the most self-satisfied expression you’ve ever seen. “You were saying?” he asks, and you want to be annoyed but you’re too blissed out to care.

“Okay,” you admit. “Point proven.”

He crawls up your body, kissing you deep, and you can taste yourself on his tongue. His erection presses against your thigh through his sweatpants, and you reach down to palm him through the fabric. He groans into your mouth. “You don’t have to—”

“I want to.” You push at his shoulders until he rolls onto his back, and then you’re straddling him, grinding down against his clothed cock. “Unless you’re done proving yourself?”

His hands grip your hips, helping you rock against him. “Fuck no.” You lean down to kiss him while your hand slips into his sweatpants, wrapping around him. He’s hard and thick, and when you stroke him, his hips jerk up into your hand.

“Condom?” you murmur against his lips.

“Wallet. Back pocket.” You climb off long enough for him to shove his sweatpants and boxers down, and—yeah, okay, the confidence makes sense. You grab his wallet from his discarded pants, finding the condom and tearing it open while he strokes himself lazily, watching you with heavy-lidded eyes.

“Let me,” he says, taking it from you and rolling it on. Then his hands are on your waist, lifting you, positioning you over him. “Go slow. Take what you need.”

You sink down onto him inch by inch, and the stretch is perfect. He fills you completely, and when you’re fully seated, you both groan. “Fuck, you feel good,” he breathes, hands flexing on your hips.

You start to move, rolling your hips, finding a rhythm. His hands guide you but he lets you control the pace, watching where you’re joined with an expression that’s almost reverent. “Touch yourself,” he says, voice rough. “Want to feel you come on my cock.”

The words send a fresh wave of arousal through you. You brace one hand on his chest and bring the other between your legs, fingers finding your clit. You’re still sensitive from before, and it doesn’t take much—just a few circles while he thrusts up into you, hitting that perfect spot inside. “That’s it,” he encourages, sitting up to mouth at your neck, one hand gripping your ass to help you move. “You’re so fucking hot like this. Taking what you need.”

You’re close again, impossibly, and when he bites down on your shoulder at the same moment his cock hits deep, you shatter. Your orgasm rips through you and you feel him follow seconds later, groaning your name against your skin as he pulses inside you. You collapse against his chest, both of you breathing hard. His hand comes up to stroke your back, gentle and grounding.

“So,” he says after a minute, and you can hear the smirk in his voice. “Still think I’m no different?”

You lift your head to glare at him, but there’s no heat in it. “Okay, fine. You were right.”

“Say it louder, I don’t think they heard you outside.”

You smack his chest and he laughs, catching your wrist and pressing a kiss to your palm. The gesture is surprisingly tender for what just happened. “Holy shit,” you say, the reality of the situation finally catching up. “We just fucked in Jake’s bed.”

“Yeah, we should probably…” He gestures vaguely. You climb off him carefully, and he deals with the condom while you hunt for your clothes in the dim light. There’s something surreal about getting dressed in comfortable silence after what just happened. Like you’ve done this before, even though you haven’t.

When you’re both decent, you catch sight of yourself in Jake’s mirror. Your hair is a mess, lips swollen, and there’s a hickey blooming on your collarbone. “Shit.” You touch it gingerly.

Jungwon comes up behind you, meeting your eyes in the mirror. “Sorry. Got carried away.”

“It’s fine.” You try to fluff your hair into something less “I just got thoroughly fucked.” “Everyone’s gonna know, though.”

“They already know.” He grins. “We weren’t exactly quiet.”

Your face heats. He’s right—you definitely weren’t quiet. “Oh god.”

“Hey.” He turns you around, hands on your shoulders. “You good? This isn’t… weird?”

You consider it. By all accounts, it should be weird. You just fucked one of your friends on a drunken bet. But looking at him now, his hair messy from your hands, expression open and a little concerned, it doesn’t feel weird. “I’m good,” you say honestly. “You?”

“I’m great.” His smile is genuine. “That was—”

“Really good,” you finish.

“Yeah.” You stand there for a beat too long, and then you clear your throat. “We should probably get back before they send a search party.”

“Right. Yeah.” He opens the door and you walk out first, down the hallway back to the living room where the entire group is absolutely not pretending they weren’t waiting for you. The silence when you walk in is deafening.

“So,” Reina says, grinning like the Cheshire cat. “Scale of one to ten?”

“Reina!” Maya looks mortified.

You just laugh and drop back onto the couch. “Solid eleven.” The room erupts. Jay throws a pillow at you. Sunghoon looks like he wishes he could disappear. Heeseung and Jake are cackling. Liv just gives you a knowing look and passes you a fresh drink. Jungwon sits down across from you, and when your eyes meet, he smirks. You roll your eyes but can’t help smiling back.

Yeah, you think, taking a long drink. This is either the best or worst decision you’ve ever made.

It’s after three AM when the party finally winds down. People are crashed on various surfaces—Niki and Sunoo sharing the big armchair, Heeseung sprawled on the floor, Jay and Sunghoon having claimed the other couch. Maya and Jake disappeared into his room about an hour ago. You’re pretty sober now, sitting on the balcony with Liv and Reina, sharing a cigarette and watching the campus lights below.

“So,” Liv says, passing you the cigarette. “You gonna talk about it?”

“What’s there to talk about?”

“You fucked Jungwon.” Reina isn’t one for subtlety. You nod.

“And?”

You take a drag, letting the smoke fill your lungs before exhaling slowly. “And it was really good.”

“We gathered that from the sounds,” Reina says, grinning when you flip her off. “But like… are you gonna do it again?”

“I don’t know. Probably not?” Even as you say it, you’re not sure you believe it. “It was just a drunk thing.”

“A drunk thing where you came so hard we heard you through the door,” Liv points out. Your face heats. “Oh my god.”

“I’m just saying.” She shrugs. “That kind of chemistry doesn’t come around often. And you’re both single. Why not?”

“Because he’s part of the group,” you say, voicing the concern that’s been nagging at you since you got dressed. “If things got messy…”

“Things don’t have to get messy,” Reina says. “People have casual sex all the time.”

“Not with their friends.”

“Sure they do.” Liv stubs out the cigarette. “Look, I’m not saying marry the guy. But if you both enjoyed it and you’re both adults… I don’t see the problem.”

You don’t have a good argument for that, mainly because you’re still thinking about his hands on your body, his mouth between your legs, the way he looked at you like you were the only person in the world. “I’ll think about it,” you say finally.

Your phone buzzes at 4:17 AM. You’re in your own bed now, having gotten an Uber home with Liv and Reina. You should be asleep but you keep replaying the night in your head.

jungwon: you up? i can’t sleep

You stare at the message for a long moment before typing back. you: same

jungwon: kept thinking about earlier

Your heart rate picks up. you: yeah?

jungwon: that okay?

you: yeah. me too

There’s a long pause where you watch the three dots appear and disappear several times.

jungwon: look, if tonight was just a one time thing, that’s cool. but if you ever wanted to do it again with no strings. you said it yourself. good sex is hard to find

You bite your lip, thumb hovering over the keyboard. This is probably a bad idea. You should say thanks but no thanks, keep things simple.

you: no strings?

jungwon: none. just two friends helping each other out

you: friends who fuck

jungwon: exactly

you: you’re sure this won’t make things weird with the group?

jungwon: only if we let it

You think about what Liv said. About chemistry and being adults and not overthinking things. you: okay

jungwon: yeah?

you: yeah. but we need rules

jungwon: rules work

you: we can talk about it tomorrow. when we’re sober

jungwon: sounds good. for the record though

you: ?

jungwon: you taste amazing

Your face goes hot and you let out an embarrassing sound even though you’re alone in your room. you: go to SLEEP jungwon

jungwon: sweet dreams 😏

You toss your phone aside and press your face into your pillow, smiling like an idiot. This is definitely a bad idea. But god, you kind of can’t wait to make it worse.

You meet Jungwon at a coffee shop off campus, neutral territory where you’re less likely to run into anyone from the group. It’s Tuesday afternoon, and you both have a gap between classes. He’s already there when you arrive, sitting in a corner booth with two iced americanos, and when he sees you, he slides one across the table. “Wasn’t sure how you take it,” he says.

“Black’s fine.” You sit down across from him, suddenly feeling weirdly nervous. Which is stupid—you’ve literally had his dick inside you. A coffee meetup shouldn’t be the awkward part. But he seems to sense it because he grins. “This is weird, right?”

“So weird,” you admit, and you both laugh, and just like that the tension breaks.

“Okay.” He leans back, fingers drumming on his cup. “Rules.”

“Rules,” you agree. “First one: no one can know.”

“Agreed. Jay and Sunghoon would lose their minds.”

“Jay would literally try to fight you.” You take a sip of coffee. “And Maya would never let me hear the end of it.”

“So we’re careful. No disappearing together at group things unless we have a good excuse.”

“And we stagger leaving,” you add. “Like, if you leave a party, I wait at least twenty minutes before I go.”

“Smart.” He nods. “What about texting?”

“Keep it normal in the group chat. If we’re gonna hook up, we text privately.”

“Works for me.” He studies you for a moment. “What about other people?”

You raise an eyebrow. “Other people?”

“Like, are we exclusive? Or can we still hook up with other people?”

It’s a fair question, even if something in your chest tightens at the thought of him with someone else. Which is stupid. This is purely physical. “We can do whatever we want,” you say carefully. “But if either of us starts hooking up with someone else regularly, we should probably end this. Easier that way.”

“Makes sense.” He seems to hesitate. “And if one of us catches feelings?”

“Then we stop immediately.” You meet his eyes. “That’s the most important rule. This only works if we’re both on the same page.”

“Agreed.” He holds out his hand across the table. “So we have a deal?”

You shake his hand, trying to ignore how warm his palm is against yours. “Deal.”

“Cool.” He doesn’t let go right away. “So… your place or mine?”

Heat pools in your stomach. “Eager?”

“You’re the one who wore that skirt.”

You glance down at your denim mini skirt, then back up at him with a smirk. “I have class in two hours.”

“That’s plenty of time.”

His apartment is closer, a small one-bedroom he shares with Heeseung who’s conveniently at class until five. The second the door closes behind you, his mouth is on yours, backing you against the wall. “Been thinking about this since Saturday,” he murmurs against your lips, hands sliding under your skirt to grip your ass.

“It’s only been three days.”

“Three days too long.” He picks you up and you wrap your legs around his waist as he carries you to his room. It’s surprisingly clean—bed made, clothes put away, posters of various bands on the walls.

He lays you on the bed and steps back, pulling his shirt over his head. You prop yourself up on your elbows to watch, admiring the view. “Like what you see?” he asks, echoing your words from the other night.

“You already know I do.”

He grins and climbs over you, settling between your legs. “Want to try something?”

“Like what?”

“You’ll see.” His hands slide up your thighs, pushing your skirt up around your waist. “Trust me?”

“Yeah,” you breathe, and you mean it.

He hooks his fingers in your underwear and drags them down slowly, and you’re already wet just from the anticipation. He spreads your legs wider, thumb brushing over your clit almost teasingly before he slides two fingers inside you. “Fuck,” you gasp, hips rolling against his hand.

“Still sensitive from last time?” He pumps his fingers slowly, curling them just right.

“A little.”

He leans down to kiss you, swallowing your moan as he works you open. When he adds a third finger, the stretch makes your toes curl. He finger-fucks you until you’re panting, right on the edge, and then he stops. You make a sound of protest and he laughs. “Patience.” He reaches into his nightstand and pulls out a small vibrator.

Your eyes widen. “You just have that?”

“Ex left it here.” He turns it on, and the low buzz fills the room. “Never thought I’d use it, but…”

He presses it against your clit and you nearly jackknife off the bed. The sensation is intense, overwhelming, especially when he slides his fingers back inside you at the same time. “Oh fuck—Jungwon—”

“That good?” He sounds smug, but you can’t even be annoyed because he’s right. It’s so good you can barely breathe.

He works you with the vibrator and his fingers, watching your face intently, adjusting based on your reactions. When you’re close, thighs shaking, he leans down and sucks one of your nipples into his mouth through your shirt.

You come with a cry, back arching, and he doesn’t stop until you’re pushing his hand away from oversensitivity. “Holy shit,” you pant.

He turns off the vibrator and sets it aside, looking incredibly pleased with himself. “Good?”

“You know it was.”

“Want to keep going?” Instead of answering, you sit up and push him onto his back, straddling him. You can feel how hard he is through his jeans, and you grind down against him, making him groan.

“Your turn,” you say, working his belt open. You take your time getting him naked, kissing down his chest and stomach, enjoying the way his muscles jump under your lips. When you finally get his jeans and boxers off, his cock springs free, already leaking. You wrap your hand around him, stroking slowly, and he hisses through his teeth.

“You don’t have to—”

“I want to,” you cut him off, and then you take him in your mouth.

“Fuck,” he groans, hand flying to your hair. Not pushing, just holding on as you work him with your tongue. You take him as deep as you can, hollowing your cheeks, and the sounds he makes are incredibly satisfying.

You pull off with a wet pop. “You gonna tell me what you like?”

“That,” he says breathlessly. “I like that.”

“Be specific.” You lick up the underside of his cock. “I want to make you feel good.”

“Fuck—okay, um, tighter grip, and—yeah, just like that.” His hips buck when you comply. “And twist your hand a little when you—oh god—“

You find a rhythm that has him falling apart, alternating between your mouth and your hand, and when you cup his balls gently, he swears. “I’m close,” he warns, tugging your hair. “If you don’t want to—”

You double down, taking him deeper, and he comes with a groan, spilling down your throat. You swallow and work him through it until he’s shaking. When you pull off and wipe your mouth, he’s staring at you like you’re some kind of miracle. “You’re really good at that,” he says, voice wrecked.

“Right back at you.” You climb up to lie beside him. “This is gonna be fun.”

“Yeah,” he agrees, pulling you closer. “It really is.”

The first group hangout after your arrangement starts is at someone’s house party on Thursday. One of the senior volleyball guys is throwing it, and the place is packed by the time you arrive with Liv and Reina.

You spot the guys in the backyard—Jay and Sunghoon playing beer pong against Jake and Heeseung, Sunoo and Niki smoking by the fence. And Jungwon leaning against the porch railing, red cup in hand, talking to some girl you vaguely recognize from Psychology. Something ugly twists in your chest before you can stop it.

“Don’t,” Liv says quietly.

“Don’t what?”

“You know what.” She steers you toward the drinks table. “Remember the rules.” Right. The rules. You can both do whatever you want. It doesn’t matter that the girl is touching his arm, laughing at something he said. It doesn’t matter at all. You pour yourself a strong drink and down half of it.

“There you are!” Maya appears, already tipsy, Jake trailing behind her. “We’ve been here for like an hour, where were you?”

“Reina took forever getting ready,” Liv says, throwing her under the bus.

“Excuse me, this face is a work of art.” Reina gestures at her makeup. “It takes time.”

You tune them out, eyes drifting back to Jungwon. The girl is still there, but now he’s looking at you. When your eyes meet, he says something to her and starts walking over. “Hey,” he says when he reaches your group, giving everyone a casual nod before his eyes land on you. “You just get here?”

“Yeah.”

“Cool.” His cup is empty. “I’m gonna grab another drink. Want to come?”

It’s a normal question. The kind of thing he might have asked before. But Maya and Reina exchange a look, and you want to die. “Sure.”

You follow him to the drinks table, hyperaware of the space between you. “That girl,” you say as he pours vodka into his cup. “From Psychology?”

“Mina. Yeah.” He adds red bull, not looking at you. “She was asking about the midterm.”

“Right.”

“You jealous?” He’s smirking now, voice low enough that only you can hear.

“No.”

“Liar.” He leans in slightly. “You look really good, by the way.”

You’re wearing low-waisted jeans and a cropped black tank top, simple but effective. “Thanks.”

“Having fun yet?”

“I just got here.”

“Want to have more fun later?” The suggestion in his voice is clear.

“Maybe.” You take a sip of your drink. “If you play your cards right.”

“Challenge accepted.”

Two hours later, you’re drunk and high and dancing in the crowded living room with Reina and some people from your Communications class. The music is too loud, bodies pressed too close, and you’re sweaty and happy and not thinking about anything.

Until hands settle on your waist from behind. You know it’s Jungwon before you even turn around—you’re getting familiar with his touch. He’s behind you, moving with you, and it takes everything in you not to lean back against him. “Thought you were playing beer pong,” you say over your shoulder.

“Got boring.” His breath is warm against your ear. “This is better.”

You shouldn’t be doing this. People will notice. But the room is dark and crowded, and everyone’s drunk, and his body feels so good against yours. You let yourself grind back against him, just a little, and his grip on your waist tightens.

“You’re trouble,” he murmurs.

“You started it.”

One of his hands slides lower, fingers playing with the belt loop of your jeans, not quite dipping under but close enough to make you ache. “Your place or mine?” he asks.

“Mine. Liv’s staying at her girlfriend’s.”

“Meet you there in twenty?”

“Make it fifteen.”

He shows up in twelve minutes. The second you open your apartment door, he’s on you, walking you backward until you hit the wall. His mouth is hot and demanding, tasting like weed and whatever he was drinking, and you can’t get enough. “Fuck, I’ve been wanting to do this all night,” he groans, hands everywhere at once.

“You were talking to that girl for like twenty minutes.”

He pulls back to look at you, grinning. “You were jealous.”

“Shut up.”

“You were.” He kisses down your neck. “That’s cute.”

“I wasn’t—” You lose your train of thought when he bites down on your pulse point.

“Whatever you say.” His hands slide under your shirt, pushing it up. “Can I take this off?”

“Yes.”

Your shirt and bra hit the floor, and then his mouth is on your breast and you stop caring about anything else. He takes his time, sucking marks into your skin that you’ll have to cover tomorrow, and when he drops to his knees in front of you, your brain short-circuits. “These too?” He’s already unbuttoning your jeans.

“Please.” He gets you naked efficiently, and then he’s lifting one of your legs over his shoulder, face level with your pussy.

“Hold on to something,” he advises, and then his tongue is on you. You grip his hair with one hand, the other braced against the wall, as he devours you. He’s not gentle about it—licking and sucking and fucking you with his tongue until your leg is shaking and you’re barely staying upright.

“Jungwon—fuck—I’m gonna fall—”

He stands up, and before you can process it, he’s lifting you. You wrap your legs around his waist and he carries you to your bedroom, laying you out on the bed.

“Better?” he asks.

“Much.”

He strips quickly and you admire the view—he’s fully hard, cock jutting up against his stomach. When he settles between your legs again, you expect him to reach for a condom, but instead he slides down your body. “Want to try something else,” he says, kissing your inner thigh.

“Yeah?”

“Can I go down on you while you suck me?”

Heat floods through you. “Like 69?”

“Yeah.” He looks almost nervous. “If you want.”

“Okay.” He repositions so he’s on his back, and you straddle his face, leaning forward to take his cock in your hand. The angle is different like this, and when his tongue finds your clit, you gasp.

“Fuck—sorry—” You’re distracted, and you force yourself to focus, wrapping your lips around him.

It’s intense, trying to concentrate on getting him off while he’s making you feel so good. Every time you take him deeper, he groans against your pussy, and the vibration makes you moan around him.

You’re dripping on his face, riding his tongue, and his hands grip your ass, pulling you down harder. The obscene wet sounds fill the room, and you’re so turned on you can barely see straight.

When he slides two fingers inside you while sucking your clit, you come with his cock still in your mouth, and he follows seconds later, groaning your name. You collapse beside him, both of you breathing hard. “Holy shit,” you say eventually.

“Good?”

“So good.” You turn your head to look at him. “You’re full of ideas.”

“I like making you come.” He says it so casually, like it’s a fact. “Want to see how many times I can do it.”

“Is that a challenge?”

“If you want it to be.”

You glance at the clock—it’s barely midnight. “How many orgasms are we talking?”

“How many can you handle?”

“More than you’d think.”

His smile is wicked. “Let’s find out.”

Forty minutes and two more orgasms later (one from his fingers, one from actually fucking), you’re a boneless mess in your sheets and Jungwon looks unreasonably smug. “I think I won,” he says.

“You didn’t—I made you come too—”

“Twice. You came four times.”

“It’s not a competition.”

“Everything’s a competition.” But he’s smiling, tracing lazy patterns on your hip. “You okay? Not too much?”

“I’m great.” And you are—exhausted and satisfied and floating. “You’re really good at this.”

“So are you.” He kisses your shoulder. “We work well together.”

“Yeah,” you agree. “We do.” Your phone buzzes on the nightstand. You reach for it and find a string of messages in the group chat. maya: where did everyone gooooo

reina: i saw y/n leave and jungwon left like right after 👀

jay: oh god not this again

sunghoon: can we NOT

heeseung: let them live lmao

reina: i’m just SAYING

liv: leave them alone

You show Jungwon the messages and he laughs. “We’re not subtle,” he says.

“Not even a little bit.”

“Does it bother you?”

You think about it. The teasing is annoying, but it’s not like you’re ashamed. “No. Does it bother you?”

“Nah.” He stretches, all long limbs and satisfied energy. “Let them speculate. As long as we don’t confirm anything, we’re good.”

“Agreed.” You type out a response. you: i left because i was tired. stop being weird

reina: SURE

you: i hate you

reina: love you too babe 😘

You toss your phone aside and curl into Jungwon’s side. He wraps an arm around you automatically, and it feels dangerously comfortable. “Should you go?” you ask. “It’s late.”

“Do you want me to?”

You should say yes. Letting him stay feels too intimate, too couple-y. But you’re tired and warm and he’s already half-asleep. “You can stay if you want.”

“Okay.” He’s already drifting off.

You lie awake a little longer, listening to his breathing even out, trying not to think about how right this feels. It’s just sex, you remind yourself. Really good sex with someone you trust. That’s all. You almost believe it.

Friday afternoon you have Intro to Film Studies, and you’re running late because you definitely overslept after Jungwon didn’t leave until 6 AM. You slide into your usual seat next to this guy Marcus from your dorm building just as the professor starts. “Rough night?” Marcus whispers, grinning.

“Something like that.” You’re trying to focus on the lecture about French New Wave cinema when your phone buzzes.

jungwon: you left your underwear in my car

You freeze. you: WHAT

jungwon: black lace ones. very nice btw

you: how did they end up in your car???

jungwon: you really don’t remember?

And then you do remember. Wednesday night, he picked you up after your late class, you made out in his car in the parking garage, things escalated, and apparently you forgot to put all your clothes back on.

you: oh my god

jungwon: don’t worry, heeseung didn’t see them

jungwon: i hid them before he got in

you: this is a nightmare

jungwon: or it’s funny

you: WHERE ARE THEY NOW

jungwon: my pocket

you: JUNGWON

jungwon: what? they’re safe

you: you’re insane

jungwon: you like it

You bite your lip to keep from smiling, hyperaware that you’re in the middle of class. you: i’m in class

jungwon: so am i. keeps things interesting

you: i hate you

jungwon: you definitely don’t. not after the sounds you were making wednesday night

Your face goes hot. you: STOP

jungwon: come over after class?

you: can’t. studying with maya

jungwon: tomorrow?

you: there’s that party at the phi delt house

jungwon: sunday then

you: sunday works

jungwon: it’s a date

you: it’s not a date

jungwon: right. forgot. just two friends fucking

you: exactly

jungwon: can’t wait 😉

You shove your phone in your bag and try to concentrate on the lecture, but it’s useless. You’re too busy thinking about Sunday, about his hands and his mouth and the way he says your name when he comes. This is getting dangerous. But you can’t seem to stop.

The party Saturday night is massive—Phi Delt always goes hard. You show up with your girls, already tipsy from pregaming, and immediately lose track of everyone in the crowd. You’re in the kitchen mixing a drink when someone bumps into you, sloshing vodka on your hand. “Shit, sorry—oh hey!”

You turn to find Mina, the girl from Jungwon’s Psych class. Up close she’s even prettier—long dark hair, perfect skin, bright smile. “No worries,” you say, wiping your hand on your jeans.

“You’re friends with Jungwon, right?” she asks. “I’ve seen you guys together.”

Something in your chest tightens. “Yeah, we’re friends.”

“He’s so sweet.” She’s making herself a drink, completely oblivious to your internal crisis. “We’ve been studying together for Psych. He’s really smart.”

“Yeah, he is.”

“Are you guys like… together? I don’t want to step on any toes.”

The question catches you off guard. “Oh—no, we’re just friends.”

“Cool!” She seems genuinely relieved. “I was thinking about asking him out. Do you think he’d be into that?”

You should say yes. Or say you don’t know. You should definitely not feel like you want to throw your drink in her face, because you have no claim on Jungwon. That’s the whole point. “You should ask him,” you say, forcing a smile.

“I think I will!” She bounces off, and you’re left standing there feeling weird and hollow.

You down your drink and make another one, stronger this time. “Easy there,” a voice says, and you turn to find Jay watching you with concern. “You okay?”

“Fine.”

“You’re drinking like you’re not fine.”

“I’m just trying to have fun, Jay. Is that allowed?”

He holds up his hands. “Okay, okay. Just checking.”

You feel bad immediately. “Sorry. I’m just… it’s been a week.”

“Want to talk about it?” You shake your head no. “Does this have anything to do with Jungwon?”

Your head snaps up. “Why would it?”

“Come on.” Jay gives you a look. “I’m not stupid. Neither is Sunghoon. We know something’s going on.”

“Nothing’s going on.”

“Right. And you guys just happened to leave that party within five minutes of each other for completely unrelated reasons.”You don’t say anything. “Look,” Jay says, his voice gentler. “I don’t care what you guys do. You’re both adults. I just don’t want to see you get hurt.”

“I’m not going to get hurt. It’s just casual.”

“Is it?”

Before you can answer, Jungwon appears in the doorway, Mina trailing behind him. When he sees you, something flickers across his face. “Hey,” he says.

“Hey.”

Mina touches his arm. “I’m gonna go find my friends, but text me about that study session?”

“Sure,” he says, and she leaves.

You feel Jay watching both of you. “I’m gonna go find Sunghoon,” he says pointedly. “You two… talk. Or whatever.”

When he’s gone, Jungwon moves closer. “You okay?”

“Fine. Why wouldn’t I be?”

“You seem tense.”

“I’m not tense.”

“Okay.” He doesn’t look convinced. “You want to get out of here?”

“I just got here.”

“So?”

“So people will notice.”

“Let them notice.” His hand brushes yours, brief but deliberate. “Come on. Please?”

You shouldn’t. You should stay at the party, hang out with your friends, stop making everything about him. “Fine,” you say. “But you leave first.”

You end up at his place again. Heeseung is gone for the weekend, so you have the apartment to yourselves. The second the door closes, he’s kissing you, and it feels different somehow. More desperate. Like he’s trying to prove something. “What was that about?” you ask when you break for air.

“What was what about?”

“With Mina.”

“Nothing. She wants to study together.”

“She wants to do more than study.”

He pulls back slightly, looking at you. “Are you jealous?”

“No.”

“You are.” He sounds pleased.

“I’m not—we have rules, Jungwon. You can do whatever you want.”

“So can you.” His jaw tightens. “Didn’t stop me from wanting to punch Marcus when I saw him sitting next to you in the library yesterday.”

“You saw that?”

“Yeah.”

“We’re just study partners.”

“I know.” He kisses you again, softer this time. “This is stupid, right? We shouldn’t be jealous.”

“Right.”

“Because it’s just casual.”

“Exactly.” You’re both quiet for a moment.

“For the record,” he says finally, “I’m not interested in Mina. Or anyone else.”

“You’re not?”

“No.” He tucks a strand of hair behind your ear. “This—what we have—it works. I don’t want to fuck it up by bringing other people into it.”

Relief washes over you. “Yeah. Same.”

“So… exclusive, then? Just while this is happening?”

“Just while this is happening,” you agree.

“Good.” He kisses you again, and this time when you end up in his bed, it feels different. Slower. More intentional.

He takes his time undressing you, kissing every inch of skin he exposes. When he finally settles between your legs, he looks up at you. “Tell me what you want,” he says.

“You.”

“Be specific.”

“I want—” You’re breathless already and he hasn’t even touched you yet. “I want your mouth.”

“Where?”

“You know where.”

“Say it.” His breath ghosts over your inner thigh.

“My pussy,” you say, face heating. “I want your mouth on my pussy.”

“Good girl.” The praise makes you clench around nothing, and then his tongue is on you and you forget how to think. He’s devastatingly thorough, alternating between broad strokes and focused attention on your clit, sliding his fingers inside you when you start to squirm. You’re panting, desperate, right on the edge when he stops.

“Jungwon—”

“Want you to come on my cock,” he says, reaching for a condom. He rolls it on and slides into you in one smooth thrust, and you both groan. The angle is perfect, hitting deep, and when he starts to move, you wrap your legs around his waist to pull him closer. “Fuck, you feel so good,” he breathes against your neck. “So wet for me.”

“Don’t stop—”

“Not stopping.” His hand slides between your bodies to rub your clit. “Want to feel you come.”

It doesn’t take long. The combination of his cock and his fingers pushes you over the edge, and you come with a cry, clenching around him. He follows right after, burying his face in your neck as he pulses inside you. You stay like that for a while, catching your breath, his weight comfortable on top of you.

“You’re staying tonight, right?” he asks eventually.

“Yeah,” you say, and you don’t even pretend to think about it. “I’m staying.”

He rolls off you to deal with the condom, and when he comes back, he pulls you against his chest. You let yourself relax into him, listening to his heartbeat slow. This is definitely more than just casual. But neither of you says it out loud.

Three months in, and you’ve gotten good at this. Really good. You and Jungwon have the routine down to an art form. You don’t leave parties together anymore—one of you leaves, the other waits at least half an hour. You vary whose place you go to. You keep your hands to yourselves during group hangouts, no lingering touches or loaded looks. In the group chat, you bicker and joke like you always have.

To everyone else, the initial excitement has worn off. Whatever was happening between you two seems to have fizzled out. Even Reina has stopped making comments. Which is perfect, because it means no one notices that you’re fucking almost every other day.

It’s a Wednesday afternoon in mid-October, and you’re sprawled across various surfaces in Jay and Sunghoon’s apartment. Maya and Jake are tangled together on the loveseat, Liv is rolling a joint at the coffee table, Reina is painting her nails on the floor. The guys are scattered around—Jay and Sunghoon playing FIFA, Heeseung scrolling his phone, Sunoo showing Niki something on his laptop. And Jungwon is sitting across from you in the armchair, looking completely relaxed, like he wasn’t buried inside you this morning before your 9 AM class.

“I’m so fucking hungry,” Reina announces. “Can we order food?”

“It’s three in the afternoon,” Sunghoon says, not looking away from the TV.

“Your point?”

Everyone starts debating what to order, and you catch Jungwon’s eye across the room. He raises an eyebrow slightly, and you know exactly what he’s thinking about. This morning, you pinned against his shower wall, water streaming over both of you, his hand over your mouth to keep you quiet even though Heeseung wasn’t home. You bite your lip and look away before you start smiling like an idiot.

“Earth to Y/N,” Niki says, waving a hand in front of your face. “You alive in there?”

“What? Yeah, sorry.”

“I was asking about that guy you were telling me about.” He grins. “The one from a few weeks ago?”

Your brain stalls. “What guy?”

“You know, when we went to get coffee last week. You were telling me about hooking up with someone and how he was like, insanely good?”

Oh shit. You do vaguely remember that conversation—you and Niki had gotten coffee between classes, and he’d been asking about your dating life, and you’d maybe been too honest about how good the sex had been lately. You’d kept it vague, hadn’t mentioned names, but still. The room has gotten quiet, everyone paying attention now. “Oh,” you say, very aware of Jungwon’s eyes on you. “That was… nothing. Just some guy.”

“Some guy who’s apparently the best fuck you’ve ever had,” Niki says, looking way too entertained. “Those were your exact words.”

“Niki—”

“What? I’m just saying, that’s high praise coming from you.”

Reina sits up straighter. “Wait, hold on. You’ve been holding out on us? Who is this mystery man?”

“It’s not a big deal—”

“Best fuck of your life sounds like a big deal,” Liv points out, though she’s trying not to smile. She’s the only one who knows the truth, and she’s clearly enjoying watching you squirm.

“Are you still seeing him?” Maya asks.

“It’s casual.”

“Is it that guy from your Econ class?” Reina guesses. “The tall one with the man bun?”

“No.”

“The bartender from that club we went to?”

“No.”

“Give us something,” Sunoo pleads dramatically. “We need details.”

You absolutely cannot look at Jungwon. “There are no details. It’s just… casual hookups. Nothing serious.”

“But the sex is good?” Reina presses.

“Yeah,” you admit, because denying it now would be weird. “The sex is really good.”

“How good are we talking?” Heeseung asks. “Like, good good, or like, mind-blowing life-changing good?”

Your face is burning. “Can we please talk about literally anything else?”

“Oh my god, it’s mind-blowing life-changing good,” Reina says gleefully. “Look at her face!”

“I hate all of you.”

“What makes it so good?” Maya asks, genuinely curious. “Like, what’s he doing that’s so different?”

“Maya!”

“What? I’m trying to learn here!”

You risk a glance at Jungwon. He’s very still, expression carefully neutral, but there’s something in his eyes. You can’t tell if he’s annoyed or amused or something else entirely. “He just—” You struggle for words that won’t give anything away. “He pays attention, I guess? Like, he actually cares about getting me off. And he’s… confident. Knows what he’s doing.”

“Size?” Reina asks bluntly.

“Oh my god, Reina!”

“What? It’s a relevant question!”

“I’m not answering that.”

“So it’s good,” she concludes. “Noted.”

“Can we please order food now?” you beg.

Jay takes pity on you. “Yeah, let’s vote. Pizza or Thai?”

The conversation mercifully moves on, and you finally let yourself breathe. But when you glance at Jungwon again, he’s looking at his phone, jaw tight. Shit.

The group ends up ordering pizza, and by the time it arrives, you’ve almost forgotten about the awkward conversation. Almost. You’re halfway through your second slice when your phone buzzes: jungwon: can you come help me with something in the car?

You frown at the message. You all walked here, no one drove. you: what?

jungwon: just come outside for a sec

You make an excuse about needing air and head downstairs. Jungwon is waiting by the building entrance, hands in his pockets. “What’s wrong?” you ask.

“Really?” He looks at you. “Best fuck of your life?”

Oh. “You’re mad about that?”

“I’m not mad.”

“You sound mad.”

“I’m not—” He runs a hand through his hair. “I just don’t love the idea of you telling Niki about us.”

“I didn’t tell him about us. I kept it vague. He doesn’t know it’s you.”

“But you were talking about me. About our sex life.”

“Is that not allowed?” You cross your arms. “We’re not together, Jungwon. I can talk to my friends.”

“I know that.” His jaw ticks. “I just—forget it.”

“No, what? Say what you’re thinking.”

He’s quiet for a long moment. “Did you mean it? What you said up there?”

“About what?”

“About it being the best you’ve had.”

Your stomach flips. “I… yeah. I meant it.”

His expression softens slightly. “Yeah?”

“Yeah.” You step closer. “Why, did you doubt it?”

“No, I just…” He trails off, looking almost embarrassed. “I liked hearing it, I guess. Even if I wasn’t supposed to be the one hearing it.”

“You’re so weird.”

“You like it,” he says, echoing your texts from months ago.

“Maybe.” You glance back at the building. “We should go back up before someone notices.”

“Wait.” He catches your wrist. “Come over tonight?”

“Jungwon, we just saw each other this morning.”

“So?”

“So we’re supposed to be keeping this low-key.”

“I am keeping it low-key. No one suspects anything anymore.” He tugs you closer. “Please? I want to try something.”

“You always want to try something.”

“And you always like it.” He’s smirking now. “Come on. I promise I’ll make it worth your while.”

You shouldn’t. You’re supposed to be at the library studying for your midterm tomorrow. But the way he’s looking at you makes your resolve crumble. “Fine. But I can’t stay over. I really do need to study.”

“I’ll take what I can get.”

You show up at his apartment at eleven, after spending three hours actually studying with Maya. Heeseung is home this time, playing video games in the living room. “Hey,” he says when you walk in. “Jungwon’s in his room.”

“Cool, thanks.” You’ve been here enough times now that it’s not weird anymore. Heeseung barely looks up when you head down the hall and knock on Jungwon’s door.

“Come in.” He’s at his desk, laptop open, but he closes it when he sees you. “Hey.”

“Hey.” You drop your bag by the door. “What did you want to try?”

“Impatient.”

“I have a midterm at 8 AM. Get to the point.”

He stands and crosses to you, and there’s something different about his energy tonight. More intense. “I want you to tell me exactly what you want.”

“I always tell you what you want.”

“No,” he says. “You tell me when I ask. I want you to take control. Tell me exactly what to do.”

Heat pools in your stomach. “You want me to… boss you around?”

“Yeah.” His hands settle on your hips. “Think you can do that?”

“I—” You’re flustered now. You’re used to him being in charge, confident and directing everything. The idea of flipping that dynamic is…

“You don’t have to,” he says quickly. “If you’re not into it—”

“I’m into it,” you cut him off. “Just… give me a second.” He waits, patient, and you take a breath. You can do this. You’ve been sleeping together for three months. You know what he likes, what makes him fall apart.

“Okay,” you say, and your voice comes out steadier than you feel. “Take off your shirt.” He complies immediately, pulling it over his head and tossing it aside.

“Jeans too.” He unbuttons them, pushes them down with his boxers, and kicks them away. He’s already half-hard, and the sight makes your mouth water.

“Lie down on the bed.” He does, and you take a moment to just look at him. He’s gorgeous like this—all lean muscle and smooth skin, cock thickening against his stomach, watching you with dark eyes.

“Touch yourself,” you say. His hand wraps around his cock, stroking slowly, and you watch, mesmerized.

“What are you thinking about?” you ask.

“You.” His voice is rough. “Always you.”

“What about me?”

“The way you taste. The sounds you make when you come. How good you feel wrapped around my cock.”

You’re definitely wet now. You start stripping, taking your time, and his eyes track every movement. “You’re so fucking hot,” he breathes.

When you’re naked, you climb onto the bed and straddle his thighs, just out of reach. “Stop touching yourself.” He does, hand falling to his side, and you lean down to kiss him. It’s slow and deep, and when you pull back, his pupils are blown. “I want your mouth,” you say.

“Where?”

“You know where.”

“Say it.” His breath ghosts over your inner thigh.

“My pussy,” you say, face heating. “I want your mouth on my pussy.”

“Good girl.” The praise makes you clench around nothing, and then his tongue is on you and you forget how to think.

You’re straddling his face, thighs bracketing his head. The position makes you feel powerful and vulnerable at the same time. “Eat me out,” you order. “Don’t stop until I come.”

He doesn’t need to be told twice. His tongue finds your clit immediately, and you gasp, gripping his hair for balance. He’s good at this—you’ve known that since the very first time—but something about being in control makes it even better. “Just like that,” you pant, rolling your hips against his face. “Fuck, your tongue feels so good.”

He groans against you, hands gripping your ass, pulling you down harder. You ride his face shamelessly, chasing your pleasure, and when he slides two fingers inside you, crooking them just right while his tongue works your clit, you actually see stars. “Holy shit,” you gasp, one hand fisted in his hair, the other gripping the sheets.

He adds a second finger, stretching you, and the combination of his mouth and his fingers pumping into you is almost too much. You’re making sounds you’ve never made before, completely uninhibited, and he’s groaning against you like getting you off is getting him off. “Jungwon, I’m—fuck, I’m close—”

He doesn’t change what he’s doing. Doesn’t speed up or switch techniques like so many guys do right when you’re on the edge. He just keeps that same perfect rhythm, fingers curling inside you, tongue circling your clit, and you come harder than you ever have with another person. Your whole body goes taut, thighs clamping around his head as waves of pleasure crash over you. He works you through it, only lightening his touch when you start to squirm from sensitivity.

You’re still trembling when you climb off him, and his face is wet, lips swollen. He looks incredibly pleased with himself. “Good?” he asks.

“So good.” You kiss him, tasting yourself. “But I’m not done with you yet.”

“No?”

“No.” You wrap your hand around his cock, and he hisses. “I want to ride you. But you don’t get to touch me.”

“What?”

“Hands behind your head.” He complies, lacing his fingers behind his head, biceps flexing. You grab a condom from his nightstand and roll it on, and then you’re sinking down onto him, both of you groaning at the sensation.

“Fuck,” he breathes. “You feel amazing.”

“No touching,” you remind him when his hands twitch.

“This is torture.”

“This is fun.” You start to move, rolling your hips, finding the angle that makes you both moan. “Watch me.”

He does, eyes glued to where you’re joined, then traveling up to your bouncing breasts, your face. “You’re so fucking beautiful.”

“Tell me what you want,” you say.

“Want to touch you. Want to flip you over and fuck you into the mattress.”

“Not yet.” You lean back, bracing your hands on his thighs, changing the angle. “Oh fuck—right there—”

“Yeah?” His voice is strained. “That feel good?”

“So good—” You’re close again, which should be impossible but apparently Jungwon has ruined you for anyone else. “I’m gonna come again—”

“Let me see.” His hands are fisted in his hair, knuckles white from the effort of not touching you. “Want to see you fall apart on my cock.” The words push you over the edge. You come with a cry, clenching around him, and he groans.

“Can I touch you now?” he begs. “Please—”

“Yes—”

His hands are on you immediately, gripping your hips, and he thrusts up into you hard. You’re oversensitive and it’s almost too much, but then he’s sitting up, wrapping his arms around you, and kissing you desperately. “You’re incredible,” he pants against your mouth. “Fucking incredible—”

He comes with his face buried in your neck, and you hold him through it, both of you slick with sweat. When you both catch your breath, he flops back onto the bed, bringing you with him. “That was—” he starts.

“Yeah.”

“We should do that again.”

“Definitely.” You glance at the clock and groan. “Shit, I really need to go study.”

“Stay,” he says. “Just for a little bit.”

“Jungwon—”

“Please? We can study together. I have a midterm tomorrow too.”

You should say no. Should go back to your apartment and study alone like you planned. But his arms are around you and you’re comfortable and warm, and maybe staying for an hour won’t hurt. “Fine,” you say. “One hour.” You stay for three.

A week later, you’re at another party—this one at someone’s house off campus. It’s someone’s birthday, you’re not sure whose, but the music is good and the drinks are strong and you’re having fun. You’re in the kitchen with Liv and some people from your Communications class when you see Jungwon walk in with Heeseung and Jake. He spots you immediately, and you quickly look away. You’ve been good about not staring at each other at parties. Good about acting normal.

But then some girl approaches him—blonde, pretty, wearing a crop top that shows off her abs—and you watch as she touches his arm, leans in close to say something in his ear. Your stomach twists.

“You okay?” Liv asks quietly.

“Fine.”

“You’re glaring.”

“I’m not glaring.”

“You’re definitely glaring.” She follows your gaze. “It’s just some random girl. It doesn’t mean anything.”

“I know that.”

But when the girl laughs at something Jungwon says, her hand still on his arm, you feel something ugly rise in your chest. This is stupid. You have no claim on him. You’re not together. He can talk to whoever he wants. You turn away and pour yourself another drink.

“Want to go dance?” Liv suggests.

“Yeah. Let’s go.” You spend the next hour on the makeshift dance floor, deliberately not looking for Jungwon, deliberately not caring where he is or who he’s talking to.

It’s fine. Everything’s fine.

You’re getting another drink when you feel someone behind you. “Having fun?” Jungwon’s voice in your ear makes you shiver.

“Yeah. You?”

“It’s alright.” He’s close enough that you can feel his body heat. “Want to get out of here?”

“Busy tonight.”

“Busy with what?”

“Just… busy.”

“Are you mad at me?”

“Why would I be mad?”

“You tell me.”

You turn to face him. “That girl you were talking to. She was pretty.”

Understanding dawns in his eyes. “Are you jealous?”

“No.”

“Liar.” He steps closer. “For the record, she asked for directions. That’s it.”

“I don’t care.”

“You clearly do.” His hand brushes yours. “Come over. Let me prove I only want you.”

You should say no. Should make him work for it. But the look in his eyes makes your resolve crumble. “Fine,” you say. “But you’re leaving first this time.”

By the time you get to his apartment, you’re both frantic. You barely make it inside before you’re tearing at each other’s clothes, kissing desperately. “You drive me crazy,” he mutters against your lips, walking you backward toward his room. “Watching you dance with those guys—”

“I wasn’t dancing with anyone specifically—”

“Didn’t matter. Wanted to punch all of them anyway.” He gets you naked and on his bed, and then he’s between your legs, and this time there’s an edge to it. Like he’s claiming you, proving something. He eats you out until you’re crying, overstimulated and desperate, and then he flips you over.

“On your knees,” he orders, and you comply, ass in the air. He slides into you from behind and you both groan. The angle is deep, almost too much, and when he starts to move, you can barely breathe.

“You feel so good,” he pants, hands gripping your hips hard enough to bruise. “So fucking perfect.”

“Harder—”

He complies, fucking into you relentlessly, and you fist the sheets, moaning into the pillow. “No one else gets to have you like this,” he growls, and the possessiveness in his voice shouldn’t turn you on as much as it does. “Just me. Right?”

“Yes—fuck—yes—just you—”

One of his hands slides around to rub your clit and you come with a scream, clenching around him. He follows right after, collapsing on top of you.

When you can both move again, he pulls out carefully and you both clean up in silence. There’s something heavy in the air, something unsaid. “Stay,” he says when you start to get dressed.

“I can’t keep staying over, Jungwon. People will notice—”

“I don’t care anymore.” He catches your wrist. “Stay.”

You look at him—really look at him. His hair is a mess, lips swollen from kissing, and he’s looking at you like you’re something precious. This is getting too real. Too intense. You’re supposed to be keeping things casual, but nothing about the way you feel when you’re with him is casual anymore. “Okay,” you say quietly. “I’ll stay.”

He pulls you back into bed, and you curl into his side, listening to his heartbeat slow. “Y/N?” he says after a while.

“Yeah?”

“This thing with us…” He trails off.

Your heart pounds. “What about it?”

“Nothing. Never mind.”

But you’re both thinking the same thing. This stopped being casual a long time ago. Neither of you is ready to admit it yet.

November hits campus like a cold slap. The trees are bare, everyone’s walking around in puffer jackets and beanies, and the semester is hitting that point where everyone’s exhausted and stressed and living on coffee and spite.

You’re in Advanced Marketing on a Thursday morning, half-asleep and trying to absorb information about consumer behavior models, when Professor Chen makes an announcement. “Before we start, I want to introduce a new student joining us. This is Daniel Choi—he’s transferring from NYU. Daniel, why don’t you tell us a bit about yourself?”

You glance up and—oh. Daniel is tall, with broad shoulders, dark hair styled back, and an easy smile. He’s wearing a navy sweater that probably costs more than your textbooks, and when he speaks, his voice is warm and confident. “Hey everyone. I’m a junior, majoring in Marketing and Communications. Just moved here from New York, so still figuring out the campus. Looking forward to getting to know you all.”

“Wonderful,” Professor Chen says. “Why don’t you take that seat next to Y/N? Y/N, raise your hand?”

You do, reluctantly, and Daniel makes his way over, sliding into the seat beside you. “Hey,” he says, smile widening. “Thanks for letting me sit here.”

“It’s not really my seat to give, but sure.”

He laughs. “Fair point. I’m Daniel.”

“Y/N.”

“Nice to meet you, Y/N.” Then Professor Chen launches into the lecture, and you try to focus, but you’re aware of Daniel beside you—the way he takes notes on his laptop, occasionally glancing over at your notebook like he’s comparing, the expensive cologne that’s subtle but noticeable.

When class ends, he turns to you. “Hey, I know this is random, but do you think you could help me out? I’m completely lost on where anything is on this campus.”

“There are maps—”

“I know, but they’re confusing as hell.” He gives you a slightly sheepish look. “And Professor Chen mentioned you’re a great student. I could use someone to show me around, maybe fill me in on what I’ve missed in class so far?”

You should say no. You’re busy. You have your own classes and your friends and your… whatever Jungwon is. But Daniel seems nice, and it’s just showing someone around campus. “Sure,” you find yourself saying. “I have a break after this. I can give you a quick tour.”

“You’re a lifesaver.” His smile is genuinely grateful. “Can I at least buy you coffee?”

You spend the next hour showing Daniel around campus—the library, the student center, the various academic buildings, the good food spots versus the ones to avoid. He’s easy to talk to, asking questions about classes and professors, and he’s funny in a dry, clever way that makes you laugh.

“So NYU to here,” you say as you walk past the quad. “That’s a big change.”

“Yeah.” He shoves his hands in his pockets. “My dad got relocated for work, and the family moved. Figured I’d come with them rather than stay in New York alone. Plus, cheaper tuition as an in-state student.”

“That’s fair. How are you liking it so far?”

“Campus is nice. People seem cool.” He glances at you. “Present company especially.” It’s flirty but not obnoxiously so, and you feel your face warm slightly.

“Wait until you experience your first real winter here,” you say, deflecting. “Then we’ll see if you still think it’s nice.”

“I’m from New York. I can handle cold.”

“This is different. This is Midwest cold. The kind that hurts your face.”

He laughs. “I’ll take your word for it.”

You show him a few more buildings, and by the time you’re done, your break is almost over. “This was really helpful,” Daniel says. “Seriously, thank you.”

“No problem.”

“Can I get your number? In case I have questions about class or campus stuff?” It’s innocent enough. Just a new student wanting help navigating. You give him your number. “Thanks.” He saves it in his phone. “I’ll see you next class?”

“Yeah, see you.” You watch him walk away, and you’re surprised to find yourself smiling a little.

You don’t think much about Daniel over the next few days. You’re busy with midterms and work and your friends. And Jungwon. Especially Jungwon.

You’ve been spending even more time together lately—studying at his place, grabbing food between classes, and obviously still hooking up regularly. It’s gotten to the point where you have a toothbrush at his apartment and he has spare clothes at yours. It should worry you how domestic it’s becoming. It doesn’t.

You’re at his place on Saturday night, both of you on his bed with your laptops, supposedly working on separate assignments but really just procrastinating together. “I’m so sick of this essay,” you groan, flopping backward.

“How much do you have left?”

“Like, three pages.”

“That’s not bad.”

“It’s three pages I don’t want to write.” You roll over to look at him. “Entertain me.”

“I’m busy.”

“No you’re not. You’ve been on the same paragraph for twenty minutes.”

He closes his laptop with a sigh. “Fine. What do you want to do?”

“I don’t know. Something that isn’t homework.”

He shifts closer, hand sliding up your thigh. “I can think of something.”

“We literally had sex an hour ago.”

“So?”

You laugh and push his hand away. “You’re insatiable.”

“Only with you.” He’s smiling but there’s something in his eyes that makes your chest tight.

Your phone buzzes on the nightstand. You reach for it and see a text from an unknown number.

unknown: hey! it’s daniel from marketing class. hope this isn’t weird but i had a question about the assignment due next week?

You smile and save his contact. you: not weird at all! what’s your question?

“Who’s that?” Jungwon asks, and there’s an edge to his voice.

“New guy in my marketing class. He transferred from NYU.”

“And he’s texting you?”

“He had a question about the assignment.” You glance at Jungwon. “Why?”

“No reason.” But his jaw is tight, and you recognize that look. He’s jealous.

Your phone buzzes again. daniel: professor chen mentioned something about a group project? do you know if groups are assigned or if we pick our own?

you: we pick our own! usually groups of 3-4. i can add you to mine if you want? we still need one more person

daniel: that would be amazing. thank you! also totally unrelated but are you free tomorrow? wanted to check out that coffee place you mentioned and could use the company

You hesitate. It’s just coffee. Daniel is nice, and he’s new and doesn’t know anyone. It would be rude to say no. you: sure! i’m free around 2?

daniel: perfect. i’ll meet you there

You set your phone down and find Jungwon staring at you. “What?”

“You’re getting coffee with him?”

“He’s new. He doesn’t know anyone. I’m being nice.”

“Right. Nice.” He doesn’t sound convinced.

“Jungwon, it’s just coffee.”

“Does he know that?”

“Know what?”

“That it’s ‘just coffee.’ Or does he think it’s a date?”

You sit up. “It’s not a date. We’re literally just getting coffee. Why do you care?”

“I don’t.”

“You clearly do.”

“I just—” He runs a hand through his hair, frustrated. “Never mind. Do whatever you want.”

“I am doing whatever I want. That’s kind of the point of this arrangement, remember?”

The words come out harsher than you intended, and something flashes across his face—hurt, maybe, or anger, you can’t tell. “Right,” he says quietly. “The arrangement.”

The air between you feels heavy, wrong. You want to take it back, to explain that you don’t actually want to get coffee with Daniel, that you’d rather spend tomorrow with Jungwon like you spend most days. But you don’t say any of that. “I should go,” you say instead, closing your laptop. “It’s late.”

“You don’t have to—”

“I have an early class tomorrow anyway.” You gather your stuff quickly, and Jungwon doesn’t try to stop you. When you leave, he doesn’t ask you to stay like he usually does. You tell yourself it’s fine. Everything’s fine.

Coffee with Daniel is actually really nice. He’s waiting outside the café when you arrive, and he lights up when he sees you. “Hey! Thanks for coming.”

“Of course.”

Inside, the place is cozy and warm, smelling like espresso and cinnamon. You order your usual and Daniel gets some complicated drink with like five different modifiers. “High maintenance,” you tease as you find a table by the window.

“I know what I like,” he says, grinning. “Can’t fault me for that.”

You spend the next hour just talking. He tells you about growing up in New York, his family, his friends back home. He asks about your life, your major, your friends. He’s a good listener, asking follow-up questions, seeming genuinely interested. It’s easy. Comfortable. And he’s cute—you can’t deny that. The way he smiles, the way his eyes crinkle at the corners when he laughs. The way he leans forward when you’re talking, giving you his full attention.

“So,” he says eventually, stirring his drink. “Do you have a boyfriend? Or girlfriend, or… partner? I don’t want to assume.”

Your stomach drops. “I—no. Not exactly.”

“Not exactly?” He raises an eyebrow, curious, not pushy.

“It’s complicated.”

“Complicated how?”

You shouldn’t tell him. It’s none of his business. But something about the way he’s looking at you, open and interested, makes you want to talk about it. “There’s this guy,” you say slowly. “We’ve been… hooking up. For a few months now. It’s supposed to be casual but lately it feels like…”

“Like it’s not casual anymore?” Daniel finishes.

“Yeah.”

“Does he know you feel that way?”

“I don’t know. We don’t really talk about it.” You take a sip of your coffee. “It’s stupid. We had rules. No feelings, no complications. And I’m the one who’s complicating it.”

“Feelings aren’t stupid,” Daniel says gently. “And if he’s worth anything, he feels the same way.”

“What if he doesn’t?”

“Then he’s an idiot.” He smiles. “For what it’s worth, any guy who has you and doesn’t want more is definitely an idiot.”

It’s sweet. Maybe a little too sweet, a little too flirty, but you find yourself smiling back. “Thanks, Daniel.”

“Anytime.” He checks his phone. “Shit, I have to go. Meeting my parents for dinner. But this was really fun. We should do it again?”

“Yeah, that’d be nice.”

“Cool.” He stands, shrugging on his jacket. “See you in class Tuesday?”

“See you then.” You watch him leave, and you’re not sure how to feel. Daniel is nice. He’s attractive and smart and funny, and he’s clearly interested in you. But he’s not Jungwon. Your phone buzzes.

jungwon: you busy tonight?

You stare at the message for a long moment before typing back. you: studying with maya. why?

It’s a lie. You don’t have plans. But you need space to think, to figure out what you’re doing.

jungwon: nothing. just wanted to see you. have fun studying

The guilt sits heavy in your chest.

You avoid Jungwon for the next few days. It’s not hard—you claim you’re busy with midterms and assignments, which is partially true. But really, you just need time to sort through your feelings.

Because the truth is, you’re falling for him. Have been falling for him for months now. And the idea of telling him and having him not feel the same way, of losing what you have, terrifies you. So you throw yourself into other things. Classes. Assignments. Your friends. And Daniel.

He texts you throughout the week—memes, questions about class, random observations about campus life. It’s friendly and light and uncomplicated. You tell yourself that’s why you respond, why you agree to study together in the library, why you sit next to him in Marketing and laugh at his whispered jokes during lectures. But you know that’s not entirely true. You know you’re using Daniel as a distraction. And it’s not fair to him.

On Thursday, you’re leaving your Marketing class with Daniel when you run into the group. Literally—you turn a corner and almost collide with Maya and Jake.

“Oh! Hey!” Maya says, then notices Daniel. “Who’s this?”

“This is Daniel. He’s new. Daniel, this is Maya and Jake.”

“Nice to meet you,” Daniel says, friendly and charming.

“You too,” Maya says, but she’s giving you a look. “We’re all getting lunch. You want to come?”

“Oh, um—”

“You should definitely come,” Jake says. “Whole group’s gonna be there.” Your stomach sinks. Whole group means Jungwon.

“I don’t want to intrude,” Daniel starts.

“You’re not intruding,” Maya insists. “The more the merrier. Right, Y/N?”

“Right,” you say weakly.

Lunch is at the student center food court, and by the time you arrive with Daniel, everyone else is already there—Maya and Jake, Liv and Reina, Jay and Sunghoon, Heeseung and Sunoo and Niki. And Jungwon. He’s sitting at the end of the table, and when he sees you walk in with Daniel, something shutters in his expression.

“Everyone, this is Daniel,” you announce. “He just transferred here.”

Everyone introduces themselves, welcoming and friendly, and Daniel fits in easily. He’s charming and funny, and within minutes, he’s got Reina laughing at some story about his first week on campus. You sit across from Jungwon, and the tension is suffocating.

“So Daniel,” Sunghoon says. “Where’d you transfer from?”

“NYU.”

“Damn, that’s a downgrade,” Heeseung jokes, and everyone laughs.

“I don’t know,” Daniel says, and his hand brushes yours on the table. “I’m liking it here so far.” The touch is casual, probably meaningless. But Jungwon’s eyes lock onto it, and his jaw clenches.

“How do you and Y/N know each other?” Niki asks.

“We have Marketing together,” you say quickly. “I’ve been helping him get caught up.”

“Y/N’s been a lifesaver,” Daniel adds. “Don’t know what I’d do without her.” It’s innocent. Friendly. But the way he’s looking at you is… not. And Jungwon sees it.

“That’s nice,” Jungwon says, voice flat. “Y/N’s good at helping people.” There’s an undercurrent there that makes you flinch.

The conversation moves on, everyone eating and talking, but you’re hyperaware of Jungwon across from you. He’s barely touched his food, just pushing it around his plate, and every time Daniel says something that makes you smile, Jungwon’s expression gets darker.

“So Y/N,” Reina says. “You still seeing that mystery guy? The one who’s so good in bed?”

You want to die. “Reina—”

“What? I’m just asking!”

“What mystery guy?” Daniel asks, curious.

“There’s no mystery guy,” you say firmly. “Reina’s making stuff up.”

“I’m literally not. You told Niki about him.”

“That was months ago.”

“So you’re not seeing anyone?” Daniel asks, and there’s hope in his voice.

Before you can answer, Jungwon stands abruptly. “I gotta go. Got class.”

“But we just sat down,” Heeseung protests.

“I forgot I have to talk to my professor about something.” He grabs his bag and leaves without looking at you. The table goes quiet for a beat.

“What’s up with him?” Jake asks.

“No idea,” Sunoo says, but he’s looking at you thoughtfully.

“Maybe he’s not feeling well,” Maya suggests.

You know that’s not it. You know exactly what’s wrong. “I should—” You start to stand. “I should check on him.”

“Why?” Reina asks.

“Because we’re friends. And he seemed upset.”

“I’ll come with you,” Daniel offers.

“No,” you say, too quickly. “I mean—you should stay. Finish eating. I’ll be right back.”

You don’t wait for a response before hurrying after Jungwon. You catch him outside the building, heading toward the parking lot. “Jungwon, wait!” He stops but doesn’t turn around. “What was that?” you ask when you reach him.

“What was what?”

“You know what. Walking out like that.”

He finally turns to face you, and the look in his eyes makes your chest hurt. “I don’t know what you want me to say, Y/N.”

“I want you to tell me what’s wrong.”

“You really don’t know?” He laughs, but there’s no humor in it. “You show up with that guy, he’s all over you, looking at you like—” He breaks off, running a hand through his hair. “And you’re just letting it happen.”

“He’s not all over me. We’re friends.”

“Does he know that? Because from where I’m sitting, it looks like he thinks you’re something more.”

“Even if he did, why do you care? We’re not together, remember? That’s the whole point.”

“Right,” he says bitterly. “The arrangement. How could I forget?”

“Jungwon—”

“Are you into him?”

The question catches you off guard. “What?”

“Daniel. Are you into him?”

“I—no. Not like that.”

“But you could be.” It’s not a question. “If things were different. If we weren’t…” He gestures between you, unable to finish the sentence.

“I don’t know,” you say honestly. “Maybe. He’s nice. And he’s—”

“Uncomplicated,” Jungwon finishes. “He’s not sneaking around. He could actually take you on dates, be seen with you, give you what you want.”

“What I want?”

“More.” He steps closer. “You want more than this, Y/N. I can see it. And I can’t—”

He stops, and your heart is pounding. “You can’t what?”

“I can’t give you that.” His voice is rough. “This—us—it’s supposed to be casual. No strings. That’s what we agreed.”

“And what if I don’t want casual anymore?” The words tumble out before you can stop them. “What if I want more?”

He stares at you, and for a moment you think he’s going to say it—that he wants more too, that this has been killing him the same way it’s been killing you. But then he looks away. “I can’t,” he says quietly. “I’m sorry.”

It feels like the ground has been pulled out from under you. “Right,” you manage. “Okay.”

“It’s fine.” You’re backing away, fighting tears. “You’re right. This was always supposed to be casual. My mistake for thinking it could be anything else.”

“That’s not—”

“I should get back. Everyone’s waiting.” You turn and walk away before he can say anything else, before you completely fall apart in front of him.

When you get back to the table, Daniel takes one look at your face and frowns. “You okay?”

“Yeah,” you lie. “Just… tired. Long week.”

“Want me to walk you home?”

You should say no. Should put some distance between you and Daniel before this gets messy. But you’re hurt and angry and you don’t want to be alone. “Yeah,” you say. “That’d be nice.”

As you leave with Daniel, you don’t see Jungwon watching from across the quad, hands shoved in his pockets, looking like his world just fell apart.

You don’t talk to Jungwon for the rest of the week. He texts a few times— casual messages asking how you are, if you want to study, if you’re okay. You respond with short, noncommittal answers.

The group notices. How could they not? You and Jungwon have been attached at the hip for months, and suddenly you can barely be in the same room. “What happened between you two?” Liv asks when you’re alone in your apartment.

“Nothing.”

“Bullshit. You’ve been miserable all week.”

“I’m fine.”

“You’re not fine. You’re avoiding him. And he’s been moping around like someone kicked his puppy.” You don’t answer, just stare at your laptop screen without actually seeing it. “Did something happen with Daniel?” she presses gently.

“No. Daniel’s just a friend.”

“Does Jungwon know that?”

“It doesn’t matter what Jungwon thinks.”

Liv is quiet for a moment. “You should talk to him. Actually talk. Because this? This is worse than whatever you’re avoiding.”

You know she’s right. But you’re scared. Scared that if you talk to Jungwon, you’ll have to end things for real. That you’ll have to accept that he doesn’t want what you want, that these past few months have meant something completely different to him than they have to you.

So you do what you’ve been doing—you avoid him. And you spend more time with Daniel.

It’s Friday night, and there’s a party at some senior’s house. You show up with Liv and Reina, already a few drinks in from pregaming, and the place is packed. You lose your friends almost immediately in the crowd. You’re making your way to the kitchen when you spot Daniel. “Hey!” He brightens when he sees you. “I was hoping you’d be here.”

“Yeah, wouldn’t miss it.” You’re definitely drunker than you thought. “Having fun?”

“More fun now.” He hands you a drink. “Here. It’s strong, fair warning.” You take it and down half of it in one go. “Rough week?” he asks.

“Something like that.”

The music is loud, bass thumping through your chest, and Daniel leans in closer to be heard. “Want to go somewhere quieter? Maybe talk?”

You should say no. You know where this is going, and it’s not fair to Daniel or to yourself or to— “Sure,” you say.

He leads you upstairs, finding an empty bedroom, and closes the door behind you. It muffles the music, making it easier to hear. “Better?” he asks.

“Yeah.”

He sits on the bed and you sit next to him, suddenly very aware that you’re alone together in a bedroom. “Can I ask you something?” Daniel says.

“Sure.”

“That guy you mentioned. The complicated one. Is it… are you still involved with him?”

You take another sip of your drink. “I don’t know. Maybe. It’s complicated.”

“Does he know how you feel?”

“I told him. He made it pretty clear he doesn’t feel the same way.”

“Then he’s an idiot.” Daniel shifts closer. “Because you’re incredible, Y/N. Smart and funny and beautiful. Any guy would be lucky to be with you.”

“Daniel—”

“I like you,” he says. “I know we just met, and maybe the timing is shit, but I really like you. And if this other guy can’t see what he has, then…”

He trails off, and then he’s leaning in, and you realize he’s going to kiss you. You should stop him. You should explain that you’re not over Jungwon, that you’re not in a place to start something new.

But you’re drunk and hurt and you want to feel wanted by someone who isn’t afraid to show it. So you let him kiss you. It’s nice. He’s a good kisser— soft lips, careful hands, nothing like—

The door opens. “Y/N, Liv’s looking for—” Jungwon stops dead in the doorway.

You jerk back from Daniel, but it’s too late. Jungwon saw. And the look on his face— betrayal and hurt and anger all mixed together—makes your stomach drop. “Jungwon—”

“Sorry,” he says, voice tight. “Didn’t mean to interrupt.”

He’s gone before you can say anything else, door slamming behind him. “Shit,” you breathe.

“Who was that?” Daniel asks.

“I—” You stand up, suddenly feeling very sober. “I have to go. I’m sorry.”

“Y/N, wait—” But you’re already out the door, pushing through the crowded hallway, trying to find Jungwon. You catch him on the front porch, about to leave.

“Jungwon, wait!” He stops, shoulders tense, but doesn’t turn around. “It’s not— that wasn’t—”

“You don’t owe me an explanation,” he says, finally facing you. “You can kiss whoever you want.”

“It didn’t mean anything—”

“Didn’t it?” His eyes are hard. “Looked like it meant something.”

“I was just—I was upset and drunk and he was there—”

“And I wasn’t,” Jungwon finishes. “Because you’ve been avoiding me all week.”

“You told me you couldn’t give me more! What did you expect me to do?”

“I don’t know!” He’s yelling now, and a few people on the porch are staring. “I don’t know, Y/N. But I didn’t expect you to move on in a fucking week.”

“I’m not moving on! And even if I was, why do you care? You made it clear you don’t want—”

“I never said I didn’t want—” He breaks off, jaw clenched. “Fuck.”

“What? You never said you didn’t want what?”

“You!” The word explodes out of him. “I never said I didn’t want you. I said I couldn’t give you more, and that’s different.”

You stare at him. “What are you talking about?”

“I’m talking about the fact that I’m terrified, okay?” His voice cracks. “I’m terrified because this stopped being casual for me months ago, and I don’t know how to do this. I don’t know how to be what you need.”

Your heart is pounding so hard you think it might burst out of your chest. “Jungwon—”

“I see the way Daniel looks at you. Like you’re everything. And I want to be that guy— the one who can take you on dates and hold your hand in public and tell everyone you’re mine. But I’m scared I’ll fuck it up. That I’ll lose you completely.”

“So instead you’re losing me anyway,” you say quietly. He flinches like you hit him. “I’m falling for you,” you continue, and the words feel like jumping off a cliff. “I’ve been falling for you for months. And it’s been killing me because I thought you didn’t feel the same way.”

“I do,” he says desperately. “I do feel the same way. I just—”

“You just what?”

“I don’t want to ruin what we have.”

“Jungwon, we’ve already ruined it. Pretending we can keep things casual when we both feel more—that’s what’s ruining it.”

He’s quiet for a long moment, and you can see him struggling with something. “If we do this,” he says finally, “if we make this real— what if it doesn’t work? What if we end up hating each other?”

“What if we don’t?” you counter. “What if it’s amazing?”

“What about the group? If things go bad—”

“We’ll figure it out. But Jungwon, I’d rather try and fail than spend the rest of my life wondering what if.”

He looks at you like he’s trying to memorize your face, and then— “Fuck it,” he mutters, and then he’s kissing you.

It’s different from every other kiss you’ve shared. More desperate, more meaningful. Like he’s pouring everything he couldn’t say into it.

When you break apart, you’re both breathless. “So,” you manage. “Does this mean—”

“It means I want to be with you. For real. No more hiding, no more pretending.” He cups your face in his hands. “I want everyone to know you’re mine.”

“Even the group?”

“Especially the group.” He smiles, and it’s tentative but real. “They probably already know anyway.”

You laugh, and it feels like relief. “Probably.”

“What about Daniel?”

“I’ll talk to him. Explain. But Jungwon, there’s nothing there. It’s always been you.”

“Yeah?” His smile widens.

“Yeah.” He kisses you again, softer this time, and you hear whooping from inside the house. You break apart to find half your friend group watching from the window—Reina and Liv and Maya and the guys all grinning like idiots.

“FINALLY!” Reina screams, and everyone laughs. Jungwon pulls you closer, wrapping his arms around you, and for the first time in weeks, everything feels right.

“So,” he murmurs against your hair. “Want to get out of here? I think we have some things to talk about.”

“And by talk you mean—”

“Actually talk,” he says, pulling back to look at you. “We should probably figure out how to actually do this relationship thing.”

“We should,” you agree. “But maybe we can do the talking back at your place? I’m still kind of drunk and these heels are killing me.” He laughs and takes your hand— openly, for everyone to see— and leads you toward his car.

As you leave, you glance back at the house and catch Daniel watching from the doorway. He looks sad but understanding, and he raises his cup in a small salute. You mouth “sorry,” and he nods. You’ll explain everything to him later. Right now, you just want to be with Jungwon.

You wake up to sunlight streaming through Jungwon’s window and his arm draped across your waist. For a moment, you just lie there, listening to his steady breathing, trying to process that this is real now. You’re actually dating Jungwon. Your phone buzzes— multiple times. You reach for it and find the group chat exploding.

reina: SO ARE WE GONNA TALK ABOUT LAST NIGHT OR

maya: I KNEW IT

liv: you all owe me $20 btw

jay: jungwon if you hurt her i’m fighting you

you: good morning to you too

reina: GOOD MORNING??? THAT’S ALL YOU HAVE TO SAY???

you: yes we’re official

reina: EXTREMELY

you: and we’ve been hooking up since that party in august

heeseung: AUGUST?????

reina: I FUCKING KNEW IT

Jungwon stirs beside you, eyes fluttering open. When he sees you, he smiles— soft and sleepy and genuine. “Morning,” he says, voice rough.

“Morning.” You show him your phone. “We’re famous.”

He scrolls through, laughing. “They’re ridiculous.”

jungwon: i’m not going to hurt her

jay: good

reina: now that that’s settled TELL US EVERYTHING

The “mandatory celebration” ends up being at Jay and Sunghoon’s that evening. By the time you and Jungwon arrive— together, holding hands— everyone else is already there. “THERE THEY ARE!” Reina shouts. “The happy couple!”

Maya rushes over to hug you. “I’m so happy for you!”

Jake hands you both drinks. “So, real talk. How long have you actually had feelings for each other?”

“I’ve liked her since before we started hooking up,” Jungwon says. “Remember that party in July? When you wore that black dress?”

Your face is burning. “You never said anything.”

He shrugs. “I didn’t think you were interested. And then the bet happened and… well, you know the rest.”

“What about you?” Liv asks.

“Probably that first morning after,” you admit. “When we were texting about the arrangement and he was being all careful. That’s when I started thinking he might be different.”

Several drinks later, everyone’s sprawled around the living room. You’re tucked into Jungwon’s side on the couch, and it feels so natural. “Real talk,” Jay says, tone serious. “I’m happy for you guys. But—” He looks at Jungwon. “—you hurt her, and we have a problem.”

“I know. And I’m not going to hurt her. I’m—” He looks at you. “—I’m in love with her.”

The room goes silent. Your heart stops. “What?” you whisper.

“I’m in love with you. I have been for a while. I was just too scared to say it.”

“I love you too, you idiot.” You’re shaking your head. “I’ve been in love with you for months.” His smile is brilliant. He kisses you, and this time it’s softer, more tender.

“Okay, we’re leaving,” Reina announces. “Before this gets too cute.”

After everyone leaves, you and Jungwon stay on the couch. “I meant what I said,” he murmurs. “About loving you.”

“I meant it too.” You shift to straddle his lap. “I love you, Jungwon.”

He cuts you off with a kiss. “Want to go home?”

You end up at his place. The second you’re inside, he’s on you, kissing you with urgency. “Bedroom,” you gasp.

“Too far.” He lifts you, carries you to the couch. You land in a tangle of limbs, laughing, then his mouth is on your neck. “I love you,” he murmurs.

“Show me,” you challenge.

He does. He takes his time undressing you, kissing every inch of skin. When you’re both finally naked, he hovers over you. “This is different now. Better,” he says. “I get to keep you.”

“You always had me.”

“I know. But now I don’t have to pretend I don’t want forever.”

“Forever?”

“Too soon?”

“No.” You pull him down. “Not too soon.”

He makes love to you slowly, thoroughly. More intimate. More real. Every touch feels like a confession. He enters you with a groan, and you wrap your legs around him. The rhythm is unhurried, sensual. He angles his hips just right, and his hand slides between your bodies to rub your clit. “God, you feel so perfect,” he breathes. “So tight and wet for me.”

“Jungwon— fuck— don’t stop—” He doesn’t. He keeps that perfect pace until you’re trembling. When you come, clenching around him, he follows right after with a moan of your name.

When you’re both spent on his couch, you feel something settle in your chest. “We should move to the bed,” he says eventually.

“Heeseung’s going to be home soon.” You gather clothes and make it to his room. “Stay,” he says.

“Obviously.” You curl into his side. “I love you.”

“I love you too.”

The next morning, you wake to Jungwon’s alarm. Your head is pounding. “Turn it off,” you groan.

“We have brunch in an hour.”

Forty-five minutes later— after a shower where Jungwon pressed you against the tile and made you come on his fingers— you’re dressed and heading to the diner. You walk in holding hands. The sight of your friend group crammed into booths makes you smile.

“There they are!” Maya calls. You slide in next to Liv, Jungwon beside you, arm over your shoulders.

“So,” Sunoo says. “Now that you guys are official, does this mean we have to watch you be gross?”

“We’re not going to be gross,” you protest.

Jungwon immediately kisses your cheek. “Can’t promise that.”

“How long did you actually know?” you ask.

“I knew from the start,” Liv says. “You’re my roommate. You think I didn’t notice when you’d come home at 3 AM with hickeys?”

The conversation shifts to other topics, and it’s easy. Normal. Like nothing’s changed except now you don’t have to hide.

Later that day, you’re back at Jungwon’s, on the couch watching a movie. “Can I ask you something?” he says.

“Always.”

“Why did you kiss Daniel?”

“Honestly? I was drunk and hurt and he was there. It was stupid.”

“Did you… were you interested in him?”

“No.” You shift to look at him. “He’s nice, but I was so hung up on you.”

“Good.” He kisses you. “Because I was losing my mind.”

“Every time I was with him, I kept thinking about you.”

“You have me now.” His arms tighten. “For as long as you want me.”

“Forever, remember?”

“Forever,” he agrees.

“Want to order food and spend the rest of the day in bed?”

“Is that code for something?”

“Food, bed, probably some making out, definitely a nap.”

“Sounds perfect.”

Later that night, after Chinese food and another round of sex— with you riding him while he gripped your hips and watched you with dark eyes— you’re lying in his bed. “Thank you,” he says quietly.

“For what?”

“For being brave enough to tell me how you felt. I would have lost you if you hadn’t.”

“You wouldn’t have lost me. I was too far gone.”

“Speaking of which,” he says. “You could just keep some more stuff here. Make it official.”

“Jungwon, we’ve been officially dating for less than 24 hours.”

“So? We’ve been unofficially together for months.”

He has a point. “Fine. I’ll bring some stuff over tomorrow.” And he’s grinning from ear to ear

Three weeks later, you’re at another party— pre-Thanksgiving. This time, everything’s different. You and Jungwon arrive together, hands intertwined. When he pulls you onto the dance floor, you don’t worry about who’s watching. “Having fun?” he asks.

“So much fun.” You loop your arms around his neck. “This is better than hiding.”

“Way better.” He kisses you.

Later, in the kitchen, Daniel approaches. You haven’t really talked since that night. “Hey,” he says. “Can we talk?”

“Sure.” Jungwon gives your hand a squeeze and steps away.

“I just wanted to say I’m sorry,” Daniel starts. “For that night. I shouldn’t have kissed you.”

“No, I’m sorry. I should have been clearer. It wasn’t fair to you.”

“It’s okay. I get it now.” He glances at Jungwon. “That’s him, right?”

“Yeah. Not so complicated anymore.”

“Good. You seem happy.”

“I am. Really happy.” You hesitate. “Are we okay?”

“We’re okay. Friends?”

“Friends,” you agree.

He leaves, and Jungwon returns to your side. “That looked like it went well.”

“It did.” You lean into him. “Everything’s good.”

“Yeah,” he agrees. “Everything’s really good.”

You stay like that, watching your friends scattered around— your family. And Jungwon, solid and warm behind you. “I love you,” you say.

“I love you too.” He kisses your neck. “Want to get out of here?”

“And do what?”

“Go back to my place. Watch a movie. Make out. Order food. Fall asleep together. All the boring couple stuff.”

“That sounds perfect.” You say goodbye to your friends and head out.

“Your place or mine?” Jungwon asks.

“Yours. I already have a toothbrush there.”

He grins. “Look at us, being all domestic.”

“It’s disgusting.”

“You love it.”

“I really do.”

As he drives through the quiet streets, his hand finds yours, and you think about how different things were just months ago. When you were both pretending, both scared, both holding back. And now you’re here. Together. For real. “What are you thinking about?” Jungwon asks.

“Just… how happy I am. How glad I am that we figured this out.”

“Me too.” He brings your joined hands up to kiss your knuckles. “Best decision I ever made.”

“Proving you could make me come?”

He laughs. “No. Although that was a good decision too. I meant taking a chance on this. On us.”

“We both took a chance.”

“And it paid off.”

“Yeah,” you agree softly. “It really did.”

Back at his apartment, you fall into your routine— changing into his drawer of your clothes, brushing teeth side by side, collapsing onto his bed. “Movie?” he asks.

“Sure. Nothing too intense though.” He puts on a comedy, and you curl into his side. This is your favorite part. Not the sex— though that’s amazing— but this. The quiet moments. The casual intimacy.

“Hey Y/N?” Jungwon says softly.

“Hmm?”

“I’m really glad you’re mine.”

You lift your head. “I’m glad I’m yours too. And that you’re mine.”

“Always,” he promises, and kisses you.