synopsis࣪ › ara attends day1 of the hxw concert to support her bandmates— but her boyfriend's bold performance sparks something sharper than pride, and far more personal.
ᯓ★ 𝗪𝗔𝗥𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗦/𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗧𝗔𝗜𝗡 estabilished relationship, public teasing, jealousy, possessivenes (barely disguised), suggestive content (making out), physical touch, flirty, emotionally constipated but whipped behavior, ara being 3 steps ahead always | ๋⸝⸝⸝⸝ 𝗪𝗖 6.7k | ๋⸝⸝⸝⸝ 𝗔𝗡 the whole concert was INSANE, bc wdym woozi played ruby with the eletric guitar IM SO JELOUS OF WHO GOT TO SEE THAT LIVE 😩 so yeah i had no choice but to write about it ofc 🤭 i have no idea of what the banner joy is holding in the photo means so don't mind do it lol, and sorry for the awful quality of the hoshi's photo 🙏🏻 i'm considering if i should do fan's reaction for this one lmk. kinda nervous to post this lol, feels like the dino one did well and I’m not sure this one’s gonna live up to it 😔 that's why it took longer that i thought, i just kept writing and delelting things because i wasn't satisfied, i'm really sorry 😭 anyw i need help beacuse i don't know what to write next, i had in mind hybe cateres i'm not really sure tho, if you have smt in mind you can suggest me ! proofread
AND thank you for the 208 followers, not alot but still 💕
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the café was small, tucked between two flowers shop, quiet enough that the sound of the ice cubes in her iced americano clinking against the glass felt loud. just as she liked— hidden, quiet, almost forgotten by the world. in places like this, the chances of getting recognized or disturbed were lower. never zero, but low enough to make her feel safer, more comfortable.
the late afternoon light spilled through the windows blinds, painting soft lines on the wooden table in front of her. her fingers traced one absentmindedly out of habit, while she sipped the cold drink in her hand ever so often. the chair across from her was still empty— it wasn't wonwoo's fault, he wasn't late. she had just arrived too early on prupose, just to let her thoughts run a little.
outside the city moved at its usual, frenetic, rhythm— cars passing, few dogs occasionally barking. a buzz of life that felt far away from the stillness from the cafè, where everything was wrapped in low music and the faint hum of the air conditioner above her head.
until the bell above the door rang, the noise of the city seeped through for a moment— footsteps, motorcycle engines, chatter. she glanced up instinctively, and there he was.
wonwoo stepped inside, just as casual she remembered— hat lower over his eyes, his usual round glasses, one hand in jeans pocket while the other pushed the door shut behind him. he scanned the cafè quickly, like muscle memory, and then immediately spotted ara.
he waved at her, quickly making his way toward her. "you're early" he said, sliding into the chair across from her. "i like pretending i have patience" she replied, taking another sip of her drink. he huffed a soft laugh, glancing at her glass, slightly frowing his eyebrows. "is that your second?" he pointed at it.
"no" ara said, but when wonwoo looked at her with a knowing gaze, she added "maybe". he chuckled, leaning back and taking off his cap for a moment to run a hand through his shorter hair. it really suited him— simple and clean. he looked healtier than she expected, like he was well-rested.
"military didn't ruin you" she said casually, after glacing at him for a moment. "not yet" he said, "give it time" the corner of her lips lifted, and a comfortable silence settled between them for a second. "i ordered nothing for you" she added, still sipping her americano.
"i totally expected that" he chuckled low, reaching for the menu card that had been sitting forgotten in the center of the table. the way he held it with one hand, lazily flipping throught the pages without really reading anything, made it obvious he wasn't planning on ordering much. she watched him with a faint smile, chin resting in her palm, and then spoke.
"you still pretend to care about the menu everytime" she said, barely holding a smile. "it's a ritual, i skim it and then order a coffee".
"you're very predictable" she said, sipping once more after. "i'm very consistent" he corrected, glancing up at her long enough to raise one brow.
ara leaned back to her seat, the wooden chair creaking slightly as her arm dropped to her lap. her eyes followed the movements of the people outside the tall window for a moment. "you know the concert's going to be insane, right?" she asked eventually, turning back to him.
he closed the menu without picking anything, fingers drumming against the table before setting it down. "they know you're coming, right?" he asked, almost offhandedly. ara raised an eyebrow, "would it matter if they didn't?" wonwoo let out a short breath of a laugh.
"they'd probably spot you mid set and call you out anyway" she smiled, leaning back, "that's what i'm afraid of, it'd be embarassing in front of the audience"
"it's part of the deal" he said, tilting his head slightly, "you show up, you get harassed in front of thousands of people" he shrugged, like it wasn't a big deal. "sounds very professional" ara muttered, but there was no real complaint in her voice. just quiet amusement.
she picked up her drink again, letting the cold glass rest against her cheek for a second. "hoshi's probably already planning something". wonwoo smiled before answering "he's been weirdly excited" he confirmed. "i think he wants you to see his new solo live".
"i've seen him hundred times" she scoffed, slightly frowing, feeling something off, like he might already know. "yeah" he said, "but this one is different" ara narrowed her eyes, catching the tone immediately. "what do you mean by different?"
wonwoo leaned foward just slightly, elbows resting on the table. "hoshi doing his best to be memorable" lips curling into the faintest smile— that kind that told her absolutely nothing and everything at the same time. she tried to read his expression, but he was calm as ever— too calm. that kind of calm that meant he was enjoying this way too much.
"you're not telling me something" ara tilted her head, squeezing her eyes, but still got nothing from him. "i'm letting you discover it on your own" he said, already standing up. "way more entertaining that way".
"wait, youre ordering nothing?" she asked, eyes narrowing. "wonwoo? we're already going?" ara asked once more as he didn't reply. he was already halfway out of his chair, adjusting the strap of his cap with one hand. "you finished your drink" he stated.
"that doesn't mean i'm emotionally ready to leave" she mumbled, holding her iced cup like it might save her. he leaned slightly toward her, resting a hand on the table in front of them. "it's not like you're walking on stage"
she stared at him for a beat, "am i not, though. emotionally?". wonwoo let out a soft laugh, stepping back. "come on, if you survive you can enjoy him"
"big if" ara muttered, grabbing her bag reclutanly as she stood up, following him out.
the car ride was quiet, one of those conforting silences that didn't need to be filled. the city drifted by outside the windows, sun pointing everything in a soft gold glow, the late afternoon heat still clinging to the pavement. ara had rolled her windows halfway down, letting the breeze play with the strands of hair near her face. it didn't help much with the heat, but at least it gave her something to focus on.
she glanced over at wonwoo, who was driving with one hand on the wheel, the other resting near the radio controls— like he had considered music, but hadn't quiet decided yet.
"so" she started, voice casual, "you're really not going to tell me what happens in his solo stage?" wonwoo didn't look away from the road, "nope". she blinked, "not even a hint?" she tried again.
"i already gave you a hint" he said, barely suppressing a smirk. "you gave me a threat" she replied flatly, turning to fully face him now. "there's a difference" he chuckled softly, shifting in his seat like he was enjoying her mild frustration. his gaze stayed ahead, but the smug energy was unmistakable.
ara sighed, letting her head fall back against her seat. "i should've brought glasses" she said, her gaze now back to the view outside the window. "for the lights?" wonwoo asked curiously.
"for the judging looks i'm going to give him from the crowd" that made him laugh— a short, low sound that filled the space between them. "you don't have to worry so much" he said, more gently this time. "i'm sure he's excited you'll be there"
her fingers stilled against the edge of the open window. the wind caught a piece of her hair and tossed it across her cheek, but she didn't brush it away. just kept looking out, watching the skyline give way to a wider stretched of road.
"i know" she said softly, the smallest smile tugging at her lips. "that's what makes it worse"
the car slowed as it approached the venue, the cityscape giving way to crowds that pulsed like a living organism. the sun was dripping low, casting low shadows and bathing everything in a warm, amber light. ara's fingers tapped lightly against the dashboard, her gaze flickering between the window and wonwoo's focused profile behind the wheel.
the car slowed down as they reached the venue, where the streets were already a bit chaotic— fans with banners, prople filming everything, few staff membrs jogging across the entrance.
ara leaned foward slightly trying to catch a glimpse through the wind sheild, "it's already a chaos" she stated, voice a little amused like she wasn't used to big crowds. wonwoo laughed softly, his hand casually drumming against the steering wheel "yeah, it's crazy out there".
she smiled, eyes flicking back to the window, "it feels so different be on the other side" the car slowed down as they approached a side entrance, pulling smoothly into the staff parking area. "the energy is different" wonwoo agreed, glancing at her briefly before focusing back to the road.
a quiet moment settled between them, filled only by the soft hum of distant voices and the occasional cheer from the crowd behind the gates. wonwoo cut the engine and opened his door— ara quietly followed, stepping out into the warm evening air, already wrapped in the buzz of the venue.
she quickly adjusted the edge of her white dress, smoothing out the fabric as a gentle breeze swept through the parking area. the soft rustle of the material was almost drowned out by the distant chatter. she glanced at wonwoo, who was already scanning the surroundings with calm, steady gaze. as their eyes caught into each others, he gave her a small, reassuring nod.
togheter, they started walking toward the entrance, their footsteps light against the concrete, air filled with anticipation that buzzed quietly beneath every sound and shadow.
the door slid open with a low hiss, revealing the bustling backstage area bathed in dim lights. crew members moved swiftly, carrying equipment and exchanging quick words, with muffled beats from the stage vibrate through the walls.
as soon as they turned the corner, ara spotted hoshi frist— pacing back and forth in front of a mirror, humming something under his breath and occasionally checking himself out. woozi was few steps away, hunched over his phone with one earbud in and the usual unreadable expression on his face.
hoshi noticed them frist, his posture easing the moment his eyes landed on them. "you made it" he said, the corner of his mouth lifting into something small and familiar. "of curse we did" she nodded, stepping foward just enough for her voice to carry.
up close, he looked mostly composed. sharp styling, in-ear mic clipped neatly, a little shimmer still dusted across his cheekbone. ara let her eyes linger a second longer "you good?" she asked— voice low, arms crossed under her chest as her eyes scanned him quickly with a faint smile.
hoshi nooded, a crooked grin already forming, "of curse, do i look too cool?" ara scoffed under her breath, her gaze dropping briefly to the mic he was casually spinning between his fingers. "you just look like someone who spent too long in front of the mirror" she smiled widly, locking her eyes with his.
"that's because i did" he replied without hesitation, flashing her a toothy smile. the reply caught ara off guard, and she let out a sudden laugh that made her eyes crinkle. instinctively, her hands reached up, fingers gently squeezed his cheeks in a playful way.
"ya~" hoshi mumbled through puffed-up cheeks, his words barely intelligible but his grin never wavered. "you're so annoying" she said trought a giggle, but the affection in her voice was impossibile to miss. their faces were so close she could feel his breath tickling against her face.
he didn't pull away though— if anything, he leaned into her touch, blinking slowly at her with a mock-offended look that only made her laugh more. her hands lingered a second too long, until the pads of her fingers slowly slipped away— slighty tracing the line of his jaw in the process without even realizing it.
hoshi blinked once, then tilted his head slightly, watching her. "you always do that when i'm trying to look cool" he complained, lips jutting out into a exaggerated pout— his usual brand of mock drama. that was enough to make her eyes roll back.
"exactly" ara shot back, clearly proud of herself. her smile hadn't faded, though it was smaller now— eyes scanning every corner of his face, like she was committing each detail to memory. the shimmer completed the sharp cut of his eyes, the faint crase between his eyebrow, and the way his lips curved without even trying— it made her chest tighten and made her heart fill up like it had too much to hold.
she wanted to kiss those rosey lips so bad, her gaze lingering there for a second to long— but she held back, she had to. the staff still moved in and out of the hallway, reminding her where they are and how visibile they already were just by standing this close.
hoshi tilted his head, eyes narrowing ever so slightly like he caught something— though he didn't push. instead, his voice came out light and casual, "what you're watching?".
ara blinked once, caught off guard. then she scoffed, a slow half-smile creeping onto her lips as she met his eyes "you". hoshi raised a brow, clearly entertained "should i be flattered or concerned?".
ara laughed under her breath, crinkling her nose slightly. her hand lifted, fingers brushing over the fabric near his neck like she needed to focus on something else. "you're fixing things that don't need to be fixed" hoshi pointed out, a teasing lilt in his voice.
"i know" eyes not leaving her hands, a shy grin on her face, "it's something to do with my hands". he watched her for a second longer, head tilted slightly, before leaning in just a little. "you sure it's not just an excuse to touch me?"
ara let out a soft scoff, but didn't pull away. "if i wanted to touch you, i wouldn't need and excuse" that made him grin, wide and toothy, eyes crinckling at the corners. he didn't had time to reply, that she quickly dismissed him. "we'll go, then" fingers finally dropping from his collar.
"make sure to open you eyes wider when it comes to my solo" ara blinked, eyebrows lifting as curiosity crept over her features. "why?" she asked, lips quircking at the edge. but she got nothing from him, just a shrug leaving her more confused than she already was.
the hallway buzzed around them as stagehands hurried past with headsets and clipboards, voices low but urgent. ara adjusted the strap of her bag over her shoulders, glancing briefly in the direction her and wonwoo had left. beside her, the boy sipped from a water bottle he'd picked up along the way.
a staff member gestured them foward, pulling back a curtain to let them into the edge of the arena. the sudden shift— from the dim backstage corridors to the open venue— made ara pause for a beat. the light weren't fully down yet, but the buzz in the air was unmistakable. the kind of excitement that sat just below the surface, about to crack open.
they slipped into their seats, low profile but with a clear view of everything. ara crossed one leg over the other, settling comfortably as she glanced to wonwoo. some faces turned as toward them, buzzing with happiness and waving as they recognized them— smile spread quickly throught the crowd.
despite the calm before the show, the warmth of familiarity made the moment feel cozy, like they were part of a secret only a few got to share. until the lights dimmed further and the chatting faded into cheers. a soft spotlight settled on the stage as the frist notes began to play— and not long after, hoshi and woozi appeared.
ara's eyes followed every movement throught every song, leaning back in her chair and gently nodding to the rhythm of the music. the corner of her mouth lifted into a proud smile, sometimes breaking into a quiet laugh at hoshi's casual, and usual, brusts of energy that made the performance so uniquely his.
"he's having too much fun" ara whispered leaning slightly toward wonwoo and nudging his arm with her elbow. "so are you" wonwoo replied, glancing away from the stage just long enough to flash her a shy grin.
"if i wasn't trying to stay lowkey, i'd be screaming my lungs out like them" she added, nodding toward the cheering crowd. the music cut abruptly, a sharp contrast that made the energy in the venue even louder. ara caught, from the corner of her eye, both of them standing at the center of the stage— breathless but still soaking the moment.
hoshi was saying something into the mic, his voice echoing faintly through the venue, but she missed the words. his gaze was now glacing their way, eyes squinting slightly under the light like he was looking for something. then that little tilt of his head and the way his lips curled at the corner— like he'd just spotted a familiar face in the crowd.
"he's going to call us out for sure" wonwoo said, his eyes never leaving the boy in the center of the stage. he squinted slightly leaning foward a bit to take a better look, like he was preparing for whatever thing hoshi was about to say. ara let out a quiet groan, already bracing herself.
and right on cue, the mic picked up hoshi's voice again, mischievous enough to make them both sit up straight. "today we have other special guests" the crowd responded immediatly, loud and curious, already starting to look around.
as the big screen lit up with wonwoo's masked face and ara's shy grin, already expecting the moment, she couldn't help but brust into laughter, quickly covering her face with her hand. the crowd's cheers grew louder, and she felt the quiet wonwoo's chuckle beside her.
they both waved and bowed their head, slightly taken aback the dozens of phones pointed their way, capturing every moment. the sudden spotlight was a bit overwhelming, but their smile stayed genuine.
beside herself, she glanced toward the stage again, where hoshi's mischievous smile was unmistakable, like he was enjoying every second of the little chaos he stirred up.
"wonwoo can you sing to 99.9%?" woozi asked with a teasing smile, quickly followed by hoshi adding fuel "ara, can you dance to yours? show us" he laughed, knowing he said something he should've not say.
ara's eyes widened in mock horror as she quickly shook her head, her hands fluttering in the air. "anyia anyia" she repeated, even if it was impossibile to be heard. wonwoo laughed softly beside her, eyes sparkling with amusement at her exaggerated reaction.
"they're both from '96, loyal people" hoshi added with a smirk, before smoothly moving on the next part of the show. ara turned to wonwoo with a sigh, shaking her head in disbelief. "he just revealed my solo has a choreography" wonwoo chuckled, barely able to hold back his grin "when were you planning to say that?" he asked, nudging her lightly with his elbow.
"never, it was supposted to be a surprise" she gave him a look, somewhere between amused and exasperated. "well, not anymore" he said chuckling, clearly enjoying himself.
ara sighed, dramatic but not annoyed, and turned back toward the stage— just as the frist notes of damage hit. her posture shifted instinctively, eyes narrowing with anticipation as the light deepened and the bass kicked in. she could feel wonwoo eyes briefly lingering on her, a soft smile of anticipation lingering on his lips, but she fully ignored him— she wanted to see what he had prepared.
hoshi moved with sharp precision, all confidence and control, his body craving every count like it belonged to him. ara had seen him performing thousand times— on screen, in rehearsal, even just messing around in the pratice room— but every time he was magnetic, like some kind of magnets were on him and attracted her eyes.
she watched as dancers' moved across his face— fingers brushing his cheek, trailing along his jaw, just like she had moments ago backstage. her eyes narrowed a little, lips pressing togheter.
she couldn't quiet say anything, she didn't even had the time to full gather her breath, because hoshi clearly had other plans— his face got dangerously close to the back up dancer, her fingers brushing againist his jaw as the crowd gasped in excitement.
ara's brows raised— amusement and disbelief warring on her face. she let out a quick, nervous laugh, clapping her hands once before turning to wonwoo wide eyes. "he's a funny guy, really" her voice was a little too high, too fast. wonwoo tilted his head, lips twiching into a knowing smile, "is that what we're calling it?"
her eyes darted back to the stage, waving him off like it was nothing "performance value" she added, shrugging her shoulders. "you know, he's committed" wonwoo hummed, not convinced.
ara crossed her arms, sinking a little deeper into her seat as the lights flared and the choreography moved on, shifting away from the flirtatious moment—but not quite fast enough to erase the flush still lingering on her cheeks.
she tried to play it cool, nodding along to the beat again like nothing had happened. like her heart hadn’t jumped, like she hadn’t just watched someone who she'd die for lean in that close to someone else on stage.
beside her, wonwoo sipped his water with a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips, eyes still fixed ahead. "you sure you're not going to scream now?" he asked, voice low, teasing.
ara didn't even look at him—just nudged his leg with her knee. "i am screaming," she muttered under her breath, "just internally". wonwoo chuckled. "well, at least you're not throwing things".
"no promises" she replied dryly, then turned her full attention back to the stage, just in time for hoshi's smirk to flash across the big screen. he definitely knew what he was doing.
the thing was she knew it was performance. she knew it was just part of the stage— the choreography, the energy, the theatrical tease. but still, her chest tightened anyway. a twist of pride and something sharper— jealousy, rose inside her. she felt the urge to stake her claim, to make clear whose he belonged to.
her hands tensed in her lap. she suppressed a sharp inhale, refusing to let it slip out, she still was among fans. the lights around them shifted, signaling the end of the solo, but she barely noticed. all she could feel was the echo of proximity— the almost-kiss on stage, the crowd's roar, his eyes locked to the dancers even if just for a moment.
wonwoo watched her, his expression soft, perceptive. he leaned closer, voice low and gentle. "you okay?"
her eyes flicked to him, then swept back to the stage, where hoshi stood catching his breath, alive under the spotlight. she swallowed hard and nodded, a determined set to her lips. "yeah, more than okay".
the next thing she knew, the concert hadn’t even finished yet— still echoing through the venue, but her and wonwoo had already slipped out just before the final encore. their ways parted not long after.
ara had insisted on waiting backstage, brushing off his offer to drive her back. "i'll go with soonyoung" she had said casually, as if it hadn’t been the plan all along.
ara bowed slightly as she stepped into the makeup room, where the post-stage touch-ups and clean-ups were done. a few staff members looked up, smiling briefly before returning to their tasks.
"don't mind me," she said, her voice light as she moved toward the small couch tucked in the corner, "i'm just waiting for woozi and hoshi". ara sat down, smoothing the hem of her dress before pulling out her phone— not that she really intended to use it, just something to keep her hands busy while the sound of the concert slowly faded behind the thick backstage walls.
the room buzzed faintly with chatter, the occasional shuffle of someone entering or exiting, but ara remained quiet, her eyes glancing toward the door every few minutes without really meaning to.
she unlocked her phone out of habit, not really intending to read the dozen unread messages waiting for her. instead, her thumb drifted toward the old blue bird app, opening it before she could second-guess herself.
the scroll began mindlessly— fans had already posted high-quality photos of woozi's solo stage, clips from the crowd cheering, and a wide shot of her and wonwoo's faces lit up on the big screen. their smiles looked easy, genuine, which made her lips twitch.
but then came hoshi's solo. a dozen angles, a hundred close-ups. her fingers froze mid-scroll— it wasn't jealousy, not exactly. but something clenched, just a little, in her chest. that was her cue to close the app. her screen dimmed a second later, falling back into her lap as she exhaled slowly through her nose.
her screen dimmed, and she let it, her phone resting idly against her thigh. the low hum of voices outside the room reminded her she wasn't alone, but in that moment, it felt quiet. the makeup lights buzzed softly above her, casting a gentle glow on the little vanity mirrors lined up against the wall.
ara leaned back slightly, head tilted up, arms folded loosely over her chest. she wasn't upset, just full— the kind of full that came after a long day, after too many feelings packed into too small of a space.
she blinked slowly, then let out a quiet laugh at herself. what she was even sulking about, she tought. ara sighed dramatically— more at herself than anything else, and flopped back down onto the couch. the chill was starting to wear off, replaced by a familiar flutter in her chest she couldn't quite name.
she rubbed at her temples and let her head tip back, staring up at the ceiling for a beat. then, without really meaning to, she buried her face in her hands. just to breathe, just to shake it off.
get it together, she thought. and right then, the door creaked open again. ara peeked through her fingers—slowly, cautiously—and there they were. woozi stepped in first, talking to someone just behind him— a towel was draped around his neck, and he still looked flushed from the lights. but ara's eyes didn’t stay on him for long.
behind him, stepping in with hair tousled and sweat still glinting on his skin under the harsh dressing room light, was hoshi. still in full stagewear, his mic pack clipped to the back of his pants, his eyes darted around the room once before landing on her.
her hands dropped instantly from her face. "don't mind me," she said, sitting up straighter and forcing the most innocent smile she could. "just waiting for my ride". hoshi cocked a brow, "uh huh".
but then ara turned toward woozi instead, "anyway, you were insane out there. i think you've finally made me a fan" she smiled, watching as they sat to remove their makeup.
"finally?" woozi repeated, laughing a little as he grabbed a bottle of water. "about time", she nodded, eyes twinkling. "it was when you hit that high note and i saw stars".
behind woozi, hoshi dropped his mic pack onto the counter a bit harder than necessary. "no comment on my performance?" he asked, half-laughing, half-waiting.
ara turned just enough to look at him, "oh, you performed tonight too?" she teased. the look he gave her was half betrayed, half amused.
"i see," he said flatly. "i give you choreo, lighting, sweat, drama— and this is the reaction". she gave him a dazzling smile, "you looked very… passionate".
"passionate?" he echoed, stepping closer, "that's all?". ara crossed one leg over the other, leaning back like she wasn't slowly losing her mind watching him walk toward her in full post-performance glow.
"mmh," she hummed, "you also looked like someone who really wanted to be talked about". he stopped right in front of her, hair still damp and sticking to his forehead. his smirk tilted lazy as he sat beside her, not bothering to leave much space in between. the scent of stage— faint cologne, sweat, and whatever fog machine residue still clung to his shirt— wrapped around her like a second skin.
"is that a problem?" he asked, elbow nudging her arm lightly. ara glanced at him from the corner of her eye, her lips twitching like she was trying not to smile. "only if you plan to ignore the consequences".
hoshi let out a low chuckle, the sound vibrating lightly in his chest. "consequences?" he echoed, turning slightly to face her more fully. "what kind of consequences are we talking about?" ara didn't answer right away— just let her gaze fall deliberately to his still-damp collar, then up to his cheek where a bit of highlighter still caught the light. she tilted her head, like she was assessing something, then leaned back slowly.
"are you planning to get yourself unready or...?" she avoided his question. hoshi raised an eyebrow, clearly amused, "oh?" he said, lips curling up as he dragged a hand through his damp hair. "you don't like the look?" ara shrugged, the movement nonchalant, though her eyes didn't leave him. "it's distracting"
"that sounds like a you problem," he teased, leaning just a little closer, enough that she could smell the faint traces of cologne still clinging to his skin beneath the sweat. "unless you want to help".
ara clicked her tongue, pretending to think. "tempting, but i'm not on staff". he grinned again, crooked and boyish, but didn't back away. "i'd make it worth your time", she laughed— short and disbelieving, more because he was ridiculous than anything else.
"you are such a menace", their eyes met for a second longer than necessary. her breath caught just slightly, fingers flexing on the cushion between them. then—she scoffed, breaking the tension with a well-aimed poke to his side.
"get changed, superstar" she said, standing up. "before i do help, and you end up in your next stage outfit backwards". his laughter followed her as she moved away— but his eyes? they stayed on her. warm, fixed and unmoving.
ara's steps were casual, but the corners of her mouth twitched— she could feel his eyes still on her. behind her, hoshi called out, "i'll only be five minutes. don't run off"
she threw a hand up lazily without turning around, "no promises". she wasn't going anywhere anyway, she didn't even had a ride. the makeup room quieted again once she stepped out into the hallway, the muffled buzz of crew and post-show chatter filling the space. she let her shoulders relax, leaning back against the wall across from the door, phone in hand but not really checking anything. the hum of adrenaline had faded now, replaced by something softer, more fluttering.
just a few minutes passed before the door creaked open again. this time, hoshi stepped out fully changed— in black jeans, a plain t-shirt and damp hair now swept back, looking more like soonyoung than hoshi. he spotted her immediately.
"missed me?" he asked, approaching with a boyish grin. ara gave him a once-over, "barely recognized you without the glitter and smirk".
"oh, the smirk's still here" he replied, demonstrating with a confident tilt of his head. she laughed under her breath, turning to walk beside him as he fell into step, "where's woozi?"
"still inside," he said with a chuckle, "taking his sweet time". they walked in comfortable silence for a few seconds before he nudged her lightly with his elbow. "you didn't say what you thought of the performance" he said, pretending like he wasn't waiting for the answer.
ara looked ahead, lips quirking. "i thought it was loud, flashy and ridiculous", hoshi blinked, mock-offended. "is this supposed to be a compliment?", then she turned to him, gaze softening. "i also thought it was you, and it was kind of amazing".
he paused, almost tripping over his own steps— not because of what she said, but the way she said it, "kind of?". ara shrugged, that teasing glint back in her eye, "you want more praise? you're going to have to work for it". hoshi let out a quiet laugh, not pushing further—just smiling, content.
they stepped out into the cool night air, the door clicking shut softly behind them. the loading area was quiet— just the hum of distant city life and the faint echo of loud chatter on the other side of the venue.
ara walked ahead a few steps, arms still crossed tightly over her chest. her expression wasn't exactly angry, but it wasn't all soft either. a teasing pout lingered on her lips, like she was still punishing him just a little— for the performance, for the smirk, for knowing exactly what he was doing.
hoshi followed behind, slower, his eyes scanning around the dimly lit alley. no one, no staff, no cameras— just them.
in one smooth motion, he closed the distance between them, slipping an arm around her waist from behind and pulling her gently to him. his touch was warm, easy— too easy. she stiffened, shoulders lifting, but didn't pull away. "stop" she said, not very convinced herself.
he didn't. instead, he leaned in, brushing a soft kiss against her cheek, then another— just below her ear this time. ara squirmed a little, half turning in his hold, her voice sharp with mock protest. "yah, what are you doing— here? are you crazy?"
"no one's here" he murmured, his lips grazing her skin again, "i checked". she tried to twist out of his hold, but he only chuckled, hand tightening slightly on her waist. "you're annoying" she muttered, though her voice wavered at the edges, betraying her.
"mm" he hummed, placing one more kiss on her jaw, "you said that already". ara turned around fully this time, still caught in his arm, glaring up at him— but it wasn't a real glare. her eyes were wide, her lips parted like she wanted to say something but changed her mind halfway through. the tension was right there— hot and charged, like a spark waiting for the match.
she lifted a hand to his chest, meaning to push him away, but didn't. "you're enjoying this way too much" she said, barely above a whisper. hoshi tilted his head, a small, smug grin playing at the corner of his mouth, "i earned it".
"oh?" she raised a brow, "because you dry-humped a dancer on stage?" his laugh escaped before he could stop it— low and breathy, and he leaned in again like he might kiss her, but stopped just short. "don't act like you don't like the attention"
ara blinked slowly, then smirked— her arms unfolding just enough to hook around his neck, pulling him an inch closer. "maybe i just didn't like sharing it", this time, it was hoshi who blinked.
and in that tiny flicker of surprise— just as he leaned in like he was about to kiss her again, ara slipped easily from his hold. he barely had time to register the loss of contact before she stepped to the side, like a predator who'd just flipped the game. her fingers brushed lightly along his shoulder, trailing toward his jaw.
then, just like the dancer on stage, she raised a single finger and dragged it down the line of his jaw—slow, deliberate, and maddeningly soft.
"didn't she do that too?" she asked, voice deceptively light— almost amused. her fingers had just traced the edge of his jaw. her gaze burned, even as her tone stayed playful, and hoshi swallowed visibly. his back straightened just slightly, his smirk faltering into something unreadable.
then— without a warning, she leaned in closer, so close he could feel her breath on his lips, the faintest ghost of a touch. so close that for a second, just a second, he thought she was going to kiss him— but she didn't.
instead, her mouth curved, mischievous, and she abruptly pulled back— laughing under her breath as if nothing had happened. "you're easy" hoshi blinked, lips slightly parted, still frozen in place. he wasn't sure if he wanted to laugh, chase after her, or drag her back and end the teasing once and for all— maybe all three.
ara had stepped back— not far, just enough to make him feel the space she left behind. arms crossed, head tilted slightly, eyes burning into him with a glint that made his chest tight. "you're staring" she said, voice light, teasing, but the edge in her gaze was sharp. hoshi's jaw tightened, "you're doing it on purpose".
"that's obvious?" she smiled, uncrossing her arms as she stepped back in, slow and deliberate. hoshi's breath hitched, the space between them shrank, her presence magnetic, disarming— his eyes flicking down to her lips just once before quickly darting back up, as if caught.
ara tilted her head slightly, the corner of her mouth twitching. "you're really bad at hiding things, you know that?" he chuckled, low and nervous, and tried to recover with a smirk. "only around you".
that earned him a raised brow, but she didn't comment. instead, she reached up— fingers brushing lightly at the collar of his shirt, fixing nothing, just touching. her eyes never left his and hoshi's breath caught again— just barely, but enough for her to notice.
her touch was featherlight, almost absent, but deliberate. not quite playful this time, not quite teasing. just there, and somehow, that felt more dangerous than anything else. his hands hovered for a moment, unsure where to go— like he was waiting for a cue.
ara's eyes scanned his face— slow, certain— her thumb grazing the edge of his collarbone now, dipping just beneath the fabric like she might want to pull him closer. "you look nervous" she said softly, though there was no mockery in her voice this time. hoshi blinked, "i'm not".
"hmm," she tilted her head, fingers now resting at the base of his throat. "you sure?" he didn't answer, couldn't, maybe, because in that second, everything else faded— the background chatter, the hum of stagehands moving equipment, the muffled bass still thumping somewhere far beyond the wall. it was just the two of them now, close enough to breathe each other in.
ara leaned in just a fraction more, lips a whisper away from his jaw, and her voice dropped. "i think you are", her words hung between them, warm and certain— teasing, but not quite a joke.
his hand finally found her waist, gentle but grounding, as if to remind himself that this was real. ara's breath brushed against his skin as she stayed there, lingering— not to torture, not to stall, but to feel it. the quiet pull, the pulse between them.
and just when he thought she might leave him hanging again— she closed the gap.
her lips met his in a kiss that was soft at first, almost tentative, like they were testing something they already knew the answer to. then fuller—deeper, like they'd been waiting.
hoshi reacted before he could think, tilting into it, chasing her mouth with the kind of urgency he'd spent the whole night pretending not to have. his fingers pressed a little firmer against her side, pulling her just enough that her body molded into his without resistance.
lips pressed firmly against hers, warm and supple, moving with a slow, deliberate rhythm that sent a shiver down her spine. she could feel the slight roughness of his stubble grazing her skin as his jaw tilted to deepen the kiss.
his hand slid from her side to the small of her back, pulling her closer until there was no space left between their bodies. her fingers tangled in the soft strands at the nape of his neck, tracing the heat pulsing through his skin. every inhale they shared was shallow and urgent, breaths mingling as his tongue gently brushed against her lower lip, asking for entrance.
the kiss was electric— each press and pull a silent conversation, a dance of touch and taste, leaving her heart pounding and her body alight with a sweet ache they didn't want to end.
then she pulled back just enough to look up at him, her eyes sparkling with mischief and something softer underneath. a slow smile curled on her lips as she whispered, "i've told you about the consequences". her fingers still lingered lightly on his chest, the warmth between them undeniable, while the playful challenge in her voice made his heart skip a beat.
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