#complete

I smiled, watching her for a moment. Last night had been a marathon—a chaotic, spicy, emotional marathon. She had pushed every button, broken every wall, and then let me hold her afterwards. It was the kind of intimacy that exhausted the soul just as much as the body.

I carefully extricated my arm, sliding it out from under her head with agonizing slowness. She murmured a protest, her hand flailing out to grab the pillow I’d vacated, but she didn't wake. I pulled the duvet up over her shoulder, pressing a gentle kiss to the top of her head. She smelled like cherry blossoms and stale fried chicken.

"Sleep well, Chaeng," I whispered.

I grabbed my robe and slipped out of the door.

The dorm was quiet. It was barely 8 AM, a rare time of stillness in the Twice household. Usually, at least one person would be up raiding the fridge or watching YouTube, but after the fansign and the Haidilao feast, everyone was clearly dead to the world.

I went to the bathroom, brushed my teeth, and splashed cold water on my face to shake off the lingering drowsiness. I debated making coffee, but decided to head to the living room first to check the schedule for the day.

When I walked into the living area, I stopped in my tracks.

Tzuyu was sitting on the couch.

She wasn’t asleep. She was sitting upright, her back perfectly straight, scrolling through her phone. She looked fully awake, which was shocking considering Tzuyu was usually the hardest member to wake up in the mornings.

But what really caught me off guard was how she looked.

She was already dressed. Not in sweatpants and an oversized t-shirt, but in a carefully put-together outfit: a charcoal grey long-sleeved hooded top with stylish silver snap-button detailing along the neckline, paired with a sleek black wrap-style mini skirt that showed off her long legs. She had light makeup on—mascara, a touch of gloss, maybe a hint of blush. She looked ready for a photoshoot, not a lazy Tuesday morning in the dorm.

She looked up as I entered, her large eyes locking onto mine. She lowered her phone, her cheeks tinting the faintest shade of pink.

"Good morning, Oppa," she said, her voice soft and melodic.

"Morning, Tzuyu," I said, tightening the sash of my robe. "You're up early. I didn't expect to see anyone vertical for at least another three hours."

She set her phone down on the coffee table and clasped her hands in her lap. "I... I woke up earlier and couldn't go back to sleep."

She looked down at her knees. "I kept thinking about today. It’s my turn. I just... I got restless waiting. So I got ready."

My heart softened. It was rare for Tzuyu to show initiative like this. She usually let the older members dictate the flow, but here she was, taking charge of her morning.

"I was going to come wake you up in a bit," she admitted, glancing at me shyly. "But I remembered that you and Chaeyoung-unnie had a... late night. So I came out here to wait."

I winced slightly. "You heard us?"

"I have ears," she teased, a small smile playing on her lips. "And the walls aren't *that* thick."

I laughed, scratching the back of my neck. "Right. Sorry about the noise."

"I didn't mind," she said quickly. Then she stood up, smoothing her skirt. "Since you're awake... would you like to go on a breakfast date? Outside?"

The offer surprised me. Usually, on days off, the members preferred to stay in and order food to avoid the public. But Tzuyu was looking at me with such hope, her fingers twisting together nervously.

"I would love to," I said sincerely. "Just let me go put on something that isn't a bathrobe. Give me twenty minutes?"

She nodded, beaming. "I'll wait."

I turned to head back to my room to grab clothes, but she called my name.

"John."

I stopped and turned back around. She had walked closer, closing the distance between us. She stopped just a foot away, looking up at me with those wide, dark eyes. Up close, I could see the meticulous effort she’d put into her eyeliner, the way her lips glistened.

"I forgot something," she whispered.

Before I could ask what, she stood on her tiptoes. Her hand came up to rest on my chest, right over my heart. She leaned in and pressed her lips to mine.

It was a light kiss, chaste and sweet. A mere brush of her lips against mine. But it sent a jolt through me anyway. It was the first time Tzuyu had initiated something like this without a prompt from the game or the group dynamic. It was purely *her*.

She pulled back, her face flushed a deeper red. "It's the tradition," she murmured, her voice barely audible. "Girlfriend of the day starts with a kiss."

I stared at her, momentarily speechless. She looked devastatingly beautiful—the morning light catching the silver details on her top, the shy confidence in her posture, the softness of her mouth.

"Right," I managed to say, my voice a little rough. "Tradition."

"I'll wait for you in the entryway," she said, giving me a small, nervous wave before turning and walking away.

I stood there for a moment, listening to the soft click of her bedroom door. Then I shook myself into motion.

* * *

Ten minutes later, I walked out dressed in dark jeans and a comfortable sweater. Tzuyu was waiting by the front door, pulling on a black face mask and adjusting a pair of oversized sunglasses.

"Ready?" I asked.

She nodded, holding out her hand. "Let's go."

We left the dorm and stepped out into the city. It was a weekday, well past the rush hour, so the streets were relatively quiet. The air was crisp, a cool autumn breeze that rustled the dried leaves on the sidewalk.

We walked side by side, keeping a respectable distance, but the energy between us felt close. Tzuyu walked with her natural grace—long, purposeful strides, her posture perfect. Every now and then, I would catch her glancing at me from behind her sunglasses, a small, content smile curving her lips.

"So," I said, shoving my hands in my pockets. "Where are we going?"

"There's a cafe near the Han River," she said. "It has a really nice view of the water. I go there sometimes when I want to think."

"Sounds perfect."

We fell into an easy rhythm. We talked about small things—the weather, the new song JYP had sent them to listen to, how funny Jihyo looked when she fell asleep in the van yesterday. It wasn't deep conversation, but it was comfortable. Tzuyu had a dry, witty sense of humor that she often hid behind her shyness, and I found myself laughing more than I expected.

The cafe was tucked away on a quiet side street, hidden from the main road. It was cozy, with warm wood interiors and the smell of roasted beans. We were lucky; there was a corner table free, tucked behind a large potted fern, offering us privacy from the other patrons.

We ordered coffee and pastries—croissants for me, a blueberry scone for her.

For the first hour, it was wonderful. The tension I’d been carrying about the schedule and the fansign seemed to melt away. Tzuyu relaxed, her shoulders dropping. She talked about how the river calmed her, how she sometimes felt overwhelmed by the noise of the city but the water made things feel simple again.

"It's hard sometimes," she admitted softly, picking at her scone. "The others are so loud. So... big. Sometimes I feel like I'm just floating behind them."

"You're not floating," I said gently. "You're the anchor. You're the steady one."

She looked up at me, her eyes searching mine behind the rim of her coffee cup. "Do you really think so?"

"I know so," I said. "I see how the members look at you. You're their baby, but you're also their strength. They rely on you more than you know."

She smiled, a genuine, dazzling smile that reached her eyes. "Thank you, Oppa."

She took a sip of her coffee, looking out the window at the view of the river. The sunlight was dancing on the water, turning the grey surface into shimmering silver.

"It’s nice having you here," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. She turned back to me, her expression open and sincere. "I feel like nothing bad can happen to us when you’re taking care of everything."

The smile froze on my face.

Her words were innocent. Sweet. A simple compliment. But they hit me like a physical blow.

*Nothing bad can happen to us.*

My mind instantly flashed back to the fansign. To the makeup artist, Minji, pulling me into the corner. *I found a significant bruise on her neck... I know the difference between a rash and a hickey... A scandal right now? It would be a catastrophe.*

The seed of worry she had planted in my brain suddenly sprouted thorns. I looked at Tzuyu—sitting there, trusting me, looking at me like I was her protector—and all I could see was the danger I represented.

I wasn't protecting them. I was the risk.

What if we got caught? What if a saeseng saw us leaving the dorm? What if someone recognized Tzuyu's profile despite the mask? One mistake, one slip-up, and I could be the reason Tzuyu's smile faded. I could be the reason Twice fell apart.

*What if I’m the one who ruins everything for them?*

"John?" Tzuyu's voice cut through my spiral.

I blinked, realizing I had been staring at her blankly. "Yeah?"

"You looked far away," she said, her brow furrowing slightly. "Is everything okay?"

"Fine," I said quickly, forcing a smile that felt tight on my face. "Just... thinking about the schedule for next week."

The light in her eyes dimmed just a fraction. She looked down at her cup. "Oh. Work."

"We should probably get going," I said, checking my watch. I suddenly felt exposed in the cafe, like the walls were closing in. "Fresh air?"

She nodded slowly. "Okay."

* * *

We walked along the Han River walkway. It was beautiful—the morning light was golden now, reflecting off the water, the breeze was gentle, and the path was nearly empty. It should have been romantic.

But I was distracted. My eyes were darting around, scanning for people with cameras, watching for anyone who might recognize us. I couldn't shut off the anxiety. I felt a low-grade buzzing in my veins, a constant hum of *danger, danger, danger*.

Tzuyu seemed to sense the shift in my energy. She grew quiet again, her earlier confidence retreating.

"It's so peaceful," she said softly, trying to bridge the gap.

"Yeah," I said, keeping my hands shoved deep in my pockets. "It is."

We walked for a few minutes in silence. The air between us felt strained now. I hated it. I hated that I couldn't just enjoy this moment with her. But the fear was a heavy weight in my stomach.

"I've always liked this spot," Tzuyu said, stopping near the railing. She leaned against it, looking out at the water. "When I first came to Korea, I was so scared. I didn't know the language. I missed my mom."

She turned to look at me, her vulnerability washing over her again. "But standing here, watching the river flow... it reminds me that everything keeps moving. It gets easier."

I looked at her. She was so beautiful, so open. She was reaching out to me, offering me a piece of her heart.

And I stood there, paralyzed by my own guilt.

She took a small step closer. Her hand came out of her pocket, moving slowly, tentatively toward mine. It was a huge gesture for her—Tzuyu, the reserved one, the one who kept her distance.

She wanted to hold my hand.

I saw her fingers coming. My brain registered it—*Tzuyu is touching me*—but my body reacted before my heart could catch up. The fear spiked—*Public place. Scandal. Ruin.*—and I flinched.

It wasn't a big movement. Just a subtle jerking back of my hand, a sharp intake of breath. A reflex.

But it was enough.

Tzuyu froze. Her hand stopped in mid-air, hovering inches from mine.

For a split second, her mask slipped. I saw the flash of hurt in her eyes, a devastation so raw it made my stomach drop. It looked like I had slapped her. She looked rejected. Unwanted.

Then, just as quickly, the mask slammed back into place. Her expression became neutral, polite. Void.

She pulled her hand back slowly, tucking it into her pocket.

"Sorry," she said, her voice toneless. "I didn't mean to startle you."

My heart hammered against my ribs. The guilt was suffocating now. "No, Tzuyu, I'm sorry. I just... I zoned out. I didn't realize..."

"It's fine," she said, offering a small, tight smile that didn't reach her eyes. "We should probably head back. The members will be waking up soon."

"Tzuyu, wait..."

"Please," she said, turning away. "I'm a little cold."

We walked back to the dorm in silence. It wasn't the comfortable silence of the morning. It was heavy, thick with unsaid words. I wanted to grab her hand, to pull her into a hug and explain that it wasn't her, it was me. But I didn't. I was too much of a coward.

When we reached the front door of the dorm, she stopped.

"Thank you, Oppa," she murmured, looking at the door handle, refusing to meet my gaze. "I had a good time today."

"Tzuyu..."

"Get some rest," she said. She opened the door and slipped inside before I could say another word.

I stood outside for a moment, running a hand through my hair. I felt like an idiot. The date had started so well, and I had ruined it. But I told myself she was just tired. She was sensitive. She’d be fine after a nap.

I walked into the dorm and headed toward my bedroom. As I passed the open door to the living room, I heard voices.

Tzuyu was already there.

"So?" Nayeon’s voice drifted out, teasing and bright. "How was the big romantic breakfast date with our Manager Oppa?"

There was a pause.

"It was... fine," Tzuyu’s voice replied. It sounded hollow. "Just breakfast."

I paused in the hallway, my heart sinking. I didn't hear the rest of the conversation because I walked faster, escaping into the safety of my room, but the sound of her voice—so flat, so empty—echoed in my ears.

I sat on the edge of my bed, putting my head in my hands. I didn't realize it yet. I didn't realize that I hadn't just ruined a walk. I had hurt her. And Nayeon, the mama bear of the group, had definitely noticed.

* * *

I had barely kicked off my shoes when my bedroom door flew open with such force it slammed against the wall, the handle leaving a dent in the drywall.

I spun around, my heart lurching into my throat. Nayeon stood in the frame, her chest heaving, her eyes blazing with a fury I had never seen directed at me before. She slammed the door shut behind her, the sound echoing like a gunshot in the quiet room.

"Nayeon? What the—"

"You tell me!" she shouted, cutting me off. She didn't step forward; she just glared at me, her hands balled into fists at her sides. "What happened on the date?"

I blinked, completely bewildered. I gestured helplessly at my clothes. "Nothing happened. We went to the cafe. We walked by the river. We came back. We had a... we had a really good time."

"A good time?" she mocked, her voice pitching up in disbelief. "Good time, huh!" She took a step forward, her presence overwhelming. "Then why is she crying her heart out in her room right now?"

The blood drained from my face. "Crying? Tzuyu?"

"Yes, Tzuyu!" Nayeon yelled. "She walked in ten minutes ago looking like a ghost, went straight to her room, and locked the door. I can hear her through the wall, John. She’s sobbing."

Panic, cold and sharp, spiked in my chest. "Is she hurt? Did something happen on the way back?"

"I don't know!" Nayeon threw her hands up. "She won't talk to me! But she was fine until she was with you."

I stood up immediately, instinct taking over. "I need to go see her."

I tried to step past her, heading for the door, but Nayeon sidestepped, blocking my path with surprising strength. She planted her feet, crossing her arms.

"Let me go see her," I said, my voice rising. "I need to fix this."

"And then what?" she demanded, her eyes boring into mine. "What would you even tell her? You're just going to walk in there and ask what's wrong? You don't even know what went wrong, do you?"

I opened my mouth to argue, but the words died in my throat. I didn't know. I thought it was a little awkward at the end, sure, but I thought that was just her being shy. I didn't know I had hurt her.

"Sit down," Nayeon commanded, pointing a finger at the bed.

"Nayeon, I really need to—"

"Sit!" she screamed.

I sat. I sat on the edge of the bed, feeling like a scolded child. Nayeon paced in front of me for a moment, trying to rein in her temper. Then she stopped and looked down at me.

"Tell me," she said, her voice dropping to a low, dangerous growl. "Tell me everything that happened since you woke up this morning. Don't leave out a single detail. And don't you dare lie to me."

So I told her.

I started with waking up next to Chaeyoung, finding Tzuyu in the living room, her outfit, her excitement. I told Nayeon about the cafe, the view, the conversation about the river. As I spoke, I was trying to convince myself as much as Nayeon that it had been a good morning.

"It was nice," I insisted. "We were talking. She said she felt safe with me."

Nayeon snorted, leaning back against the dresser, her arms still crossed. "She said she felt safe? And then what?"

"And then we walked," I continued, my voice wavering slightly. "Along the river. It was quiet. She was telling me about when she first came to Korea... how she missed her mom."

I paused, the memory surfacing with painful clarity. *It's nice having you here. I feel like nothing bad can happen to us when you’re taking care of everything.*

"And then?" Nayeon prompted, her eyes narrowing. "What happened after that?"

"That's when..." I swallowed hard. "That's when I started thinking about... other things."

"Other things like what?"

"Like Minji," I admitted, my voice barely a whisper. "The makeup artist. What she said about Dahyun's hickey. About a scandal."

I looked up at Nayeon. "I just got scared. I felt like I was putting her in danger. Like I was the risk."

"So you panicked," Nayeon said flatly.

"I didn't mean to," I said quickly. "I just... my mind was racing. I wasn't paying attention to the moment."

"Keep going," she said. "What did you do?"

"We were walking back," I said, closing my eyes as the scene played out in high definition. "She stopped. She looked at me. She reached out..."

My voice cracked.

"She tried to hold my hand," I whispered.

The silence in the room was deafening.

"And?" Nayeon asked, though she already knew.

"I flinched," I said, the words tasting like ash in my mouth. "She reached out, and I pulled away. I flinched like she was a stranger. Like she was burning me."

I opened my eyes and looked at Nayeon. The realization hit me like a sledgehammer. It wasn't just a reflex. It was a rejection.

"She's Tzuyu," I said, the guilt crashing down on me so hard I physically slumped. "She's shy. She's reserved. She probably spent ten minutes working up the courage to just touch my hand. And she offered me her trust, and I treated it like a threat."

"Oh my god," I buried my face in my hands. "I didn't just ruin the date. I broke her heart."

I could feel the tears stinging my own eyes now. I had been so wrapped up in my own martyrdom—*oh, look at me, I'm the dangerous protector, I'm sacrificing my happiness for them*—that I didn't see the actual human being standing right in front of me. I didn't see that I was the one hurting her.

"She must have felt so stupid," I choked out. "She must have thought I didn't want her."

"You didn't want her," Nayeon said, her voice cold. "In that moment, you didn't. You wanted to protect your own ass from a scandal. You chose your fear over her feelings."

"I know," I whispered. "I know."

I sat there for a moment, letting the shame wash over me. I deserved it. Every bit of it.

"I need to fix this," I said, looking up at her, my vision blurry. "I need to tell her I'm sorry. I need to explain that it wasn't about her."

"Explaining isn't going to fix it," Nayeon said, her anger finally softening into something like disappointment. "But it's a start."

She stood up straight and moved away from the door, gesturing for me to go.

"But John?" she called out as I scrambled to my feet.

I stopped at the threshold, turning back.

"If you hurt her again," she said, her voice low and serious, "you won't have to worry about a scandal. Because I will kill you myself."

I nodded. "I understand."

I walked out into the hallway, Nayeon following close behind me. The walk to Tzuyu's room felt like the longest journey of my life.

I raised my hand to knock on her door, my heart hammering against my ribs. I could hear faint sniffling from inside.

"Tzuyu?" I called out softly, my voice trembling. "It's me. Open the door, please."

The sniffling stopped. Silence.

"It's John," I said, leaning my forehead against the wood. "I know I messed up. Please... let me in."

* * *

John stood outside Tzuyu’s door, the wood panel feeling cold and unyielding under his knuckles. He knocked softly, the sound barely audible over the racing of his own heart. When there was no answer, he tried the handle. It was unlocked, the door giving way slightly to reveal a sliver of darkness inside.

He pushed it open gently, stepping into the room as if he were entering a holy shrine that he had just defiled.

Tzuyu was sitting on the edge of her bed, knees pressed together, back slumped in a way that was entirely unlike her usual perfect posture. She was still wearing the charcoal grey top and black skirt from their morning date, the clothes now wrinkled from hours of wear. Her face was buried in her hands, her shoulders shaking with the force of her silent crying. It wasn't the loud, dramatic sobbing of a tantrum; it was the quiet, devastating weeping of someone whose heart had been quietly cracked open.

The sight hit John like a physical punch to the chest. He felt the breath leave his lungs, replaced by a heavy, crushing weight of guilt.

He walked slowly across the room, mindful not to make any sudden movements that might startle her. He didn't sit on the bed—he didn't want to invade her space. Instead, he lowered himself onto the floor beside the mattress, sitting cross-legged so that he was looking up at her. He wanted to be smaller than her in this moment.

"I know you’re probably mad at me right now," he began, his voice soft and rough with unshed emotion. "And maybe you think I'm an ass."

He let out a shaky breath. "You’d be completely right. I am an ass. And I’m really, really sorry for treating you like that earlier without even realizing it."

Tzuyu didn’t move her hands from her face, but her shoulders stiffened slightly. She was listening.

"I wasn't rejecting you, Tzuyu," he continued, pleading with her to understand. "It wasn't about you. When we were at breakfast... you said something. You said, 'I feel like nothing bad can happen to us when you’re taking care of everything.'"

John lowered his head, staring at his hands clasped in his lap. "That sweet comment... it broke me. Because all I could think about was yesterday. The fansign. Minji—the makeup artist—pulling me aside to warn me about Dahyun’s hickey. She told me that one scandal, one mistake, could ruin TWICE’s career. She said I needed to be careful."

He looked back up at her. "I’ve been spiraling ever since. I’m terrified. I feel like I’m a walking disaster waiting to happen, and that I’m going to be the reason you all lose everything. When you reached for my hand, I didn't see a gesture of love. I saw a paparazzi camera. I saw a headline. I flinched because I was scared of ruining you, not because I didn't want you."

The silence stretched out, thick and suffocating.

Suddenly, a sharp voice cut through the tension from the doorway.

"If you think we’re dumb or that we don’t care about our careers, then you’re the one who’s not paying attention."

John flinched again, turning his head. Nayeon was leaning against the doorframe, arms crossed over her chest. Her expression was fierce, her eyes flashing with a protective anger that made John feel about two inches tall.

She walked into the room, standing over both of them. "Do you think we just woke up one day and decided to play a game with our lives? We knew the risks from the very beginning, John. This arrangement? It wasn't some impulsive decision made over a glass of soju."

Nayeon’s voice was controlled, but it carried the weight of years of experience. "We talked about this. We voted. We thought it through carefully because we needed love, happiness, and a real personal life despite being idols. We aren't rookies anymore. We’re in our eleventh year. We are established. Do you really think a dating scandal would end us now? The world knows we’re women. They know we have needs."

She looked down at John, her gaze softening just a fraction, though her tone remained firm. "We chose this together because it was the best solution we could find to be happy. And we chose *you* because we trusted you to be part of that happiness."

John looked up at her, his eyes swimming with doubt. He wanted to believe her, but the dark cloud in his mind wouldn't dissipate.

"Okay," he whispered, his voice hesitant. "But... for how long?"

Nayeon raised an eyebrow. "What?"

"What if the dating ban lifts?" John asked, the question he had been terrified to voice finally spilling out. "It won't be long before JYP allows you to date publicly. Then what?"

The question hung in the air, heavy with an unspoken, agonizing subtext: *What happens to me when you can have normal boyfriends? What happens to the temporary fix?*

Her temper flared, hot and bright, but this time it was born out of frustration for his pain rather than anger at his mistake.

"DO YOU THINK WE’RE JUST PLAYING SOME RANDOM SECRET DATING GAME WITH YOU?" she shouted, the volume making Tzuyu jump. "DID OUR TIME WITH YOU NOT LOOK GENUINE? DO YOU THINK DAHYUN WAS FAKING IT? DO YOU THINK MOMO WAS FAKING IT?"

She stopped mid-sentence, her chest heaving. She looked at John—really looked at him. She saw the man who had been dragged into this wild, high-stakes life, who was juggling their hearts and their schedules and his own fragile sense of self-worth all at the same time.

He felt disposable. He had lost his girlfriend, lost his old job, and been thrust into this role without warning. He was a stopgap, a convenience. Eventually, the real world would come back, and he would be left on the sidelines.

Nayeon stared at him. She saw the fear in his eyes, the way he was hugging himself. She saw that this wasn't really about the scandal. It wasn't about protecting their carrier.

It was about him protecting his heart.

The anger on her face suddenly shifted, melting into an expression of fierce determination. She exhaled sharply, running a hand through her hair.

"You idiot," she said, her voice dropping to a whisper. "You absolute idiot."

She looked at Tzuyu, who had finally lowered her hands from her face. Her eyes were red and swollen, her cheeks streaked with tears, but she was looking at John now.

"Both of you," Nayeon commanded, pointing toward the living room. "Go to the living room right now for an emergency meeting. I’m going to gather the others and fix this."

"But—" John started.

"Go!" she barked.

She turned on her heel and stormed out of the room, leaving the door wide open behind her. The echo of her shouting faded down the hallway.

* * *

After Nayeon stormed out, the room fell into a heavy, suffocating silence. I sat frozen on the floor for a long moment, the echo of her shouting still ringing in my ears, alongside the crushing weight of what she had realized. I wasn't just scared of a scandal. I was scared of being discarded.

Tzuyu was still sitting on the edge of the bed, her knees pulled to her chest. Her eyes were red and swollen, the lashes clumped together with tears. Her breathing was uneven, hitching every few seconds.

My heart twisted painfully at the sight. I had done that. My insecurity, my inability to just accept love without questioning the cost, had put that look on her face.

I slowly stood up, my own chest tight with fear. I extended a hand toward her, palm open, half-expecting her to turn away, to tell me to leave.

"Tzuyu..." I started, my voice rough with guilt. "We should follow Nayeon's order. I’m not ready to find out what happens if we don't."

A small, wet chuckle escaped her despite everything. She looked up at me, her makeup smudged, her nose pink. She looked so young, and so incredibly tired. After a brief hesitation, she reached out and took my hand.

Her fingers were warm, soft, and trembling slightly. The contact sent a jolt of electricity through me—not the scary kind, but the grounding kind.

"I... I need a minute," she whispered, her voice hoarse and raspy from crying. "My face is a mess. Can you wait for me?"

I nodded immediately, squeezing her hand gently. "Of course. Take all the time you need."

I retreated to the hallway and leaned against the wall, my head tipped back against the plaster. My own heart was hammering against my ribs. I felt like I was walking into a tribunal, but I knew I deserved whatever judgment they had for me.

A few minutes later, the door clicked open. Tzuyu stepped out.

She had washed her face completely. Every trace of the makeup she had so carefully applied that morning was gone. Her skin was bare, flushed a soft pink from the scrubbing, and her eyes were still a little puffy. Her hair was pulled back into a simple, loose ponytail.

To me, she looked more beautiful than she had all day. There was no artifice, no idol persona. Just Tzuyu. Soft, real, and vulnerable in a way that made my chest ache with the need to protect her.

I pushed off the wall and offered my hand again.

This time, she took it without hesitation. She stepped closer, her shoulder brushing against my arm. We walked to the living room hand in hand, our fingers interlaced tight.

When we walked in, the room was already full. The atmosphere was thick and gloomy, the air heavy with unsaid tension. All eight other members were there. Some looked like they had been dragged out of bed—Momo was yawning widely, her hair a bird's nest on top of her head. Others looked like they had been waiting anxiously—Jeongyeon was sitting on the edge of her seat, her knuckles white.

The moment they noticed us, the room fell silent. Nine pairs of eyes locked onto our joined hands.

Slowly, almost organically, the members shifted. They quietly made space, emptying the center of the big sectional couch. It was a silent invitation, and a command.

I sat down first, pulling Tzuyu down beside me. I didn't let go of her hand. I needed the anchor just as much as she did.

Nayeon stood in the center of the room. As the eldest, and the one who had first proposed this crazy, beautiful arrangement, she naturally took the lead. Her face was serious, stripped of her usual playful teasing.

"This idea..." she began, her voice unusually soft, "it didn't come from nowhere. It didn't come out of boredom."

She looked around the room, making eye contact with every member. "It came from all of us feeling like we were losing pieces of ourselves. We’re idols. We have crazy careers and so many limitations. We can't date. We can't go to clubs. We can't just be normal girls."

She turned her gaze to me. "We just wanted to feel like normal human beings for once. To love, to be loved, to have happiness outside of the stage lights."

The members nodded or hummed quietly in agreement. Dahyun reached out to squeeze Sana's hand.

"We were close enough to share one person without jealousy," Nayeon continued. "We worked out every detail together so no one would feel left out. Every turn was treated like a real relationship. We’re all different, with different needs and different personalities... but we were all in from the beginning."

She took a deep breath, her expression softening with regret. "I’m sorry we brought you into this headfirst without giving you time to adjust. We were so excited to have you, to fix what was broken, that we didn't stop to think about what you were going through. And I’m especially sorry we ignored how fresh your breakup was. That was unfair to you."

I felt a lump form in my throat. I hadn't realized how much I needed to hear that until she said it.

Jihyo stood up then, taking over. As the leader, she carried the history of the group in her shoulders. Her voice was steady, but I could hear the emotion lacing every word.

"Our first manager..." she started, and the room seemed to dim at the memory. "We all fell for him. Some faster than others, but after a year, we were all in love. When he passed away, it nearly broke us. We were on the verge of falling apart, but we pulled through because that’s what he would have wanted—for us to stay happy and united."

She looked directly at me, her eyes intense and piercing.

"After the disaster with the last manager, we did extensive research on you. We didn't just pick a name out of a hat. We even quietly asked the NewJeans members about you, since you worked with them before."

My eyes widened. I hadn't known that.

"We weren’t just looking for a manager to handle schedules," Jihyo said firmly. "We were looking for a boyfriend, a partner, someone who could become part of our future. Some of the members have already told me that their time with you feels like a missing piece finally sliding back into place."

She paused, her voice cracking slightly, as if forcing the next words out caused her physical pain.

"You were never a fling or something unserious to us. We were all in from the start."

She looked down at her hands, then back up at me, her eyes swimming with tears. "We would understand if you want to go slow... or if you want to walk out."

The room went dead still. The air left my lungs. The thought of leaving, of walking out that door and never coming back to this chaotic, loud, loving dorm, felt like imagining a world without color.

I opened my mouth, the words rushing out before I could even process them.

"I never thought about leaving any of you," I said, my voice steady but full of a raw, fierce emotion. "I don't want to go slow either."

I looked around at all nine faces—Nayeon's determination, Jihyo's sadness, Momo's hope, Tzuyu's quiet devotion. I looked back at Tzuyu, squeezing her hand tighter.

"I was insecure," I admitted, my voice trembling. "Because everything I thought was love and trust got shattered in a single moment when my ex left. I was scared this whole thing might turn out to be a dream that would vanish when I woke up."

"But spending time with all of you..." I shook my head, a small, disbelieving smile touching my lips. "I finally understood what real love, real support, and real care feel like. I’d be the dumbest person in history if I walked away from that."

My voice softened to a whisper. "I never doubted the feelings or emotions you’ve all shown me. I know there are going to be a lot of things we need to fix in this unusual relationship, but I’m determined to work through every single one of them together."

I took a deep breath, looking at Jihyo, then Nayeon, then Tzuyu. "I’ve finally found a home... and I’m not leaving it until you literally kick me out onto the street."

For a second, no one moved. Then, Dahyun let out a loud, wet sniffle and launched herself across the room to hug me. The spell was broken.

The atmosphere in the room shifted instantly, the gloom evaporating like mist in the sun. The members began talking again—soft voices, small laughs, gentle reassurances. They crowded around the couch, touching my shoulder, ruffling my hair, hugging Tzuyu.

We sat there for nearly an hour, just talking. We shared thoughts, fears, and hopes. We talked about boundaries, about how to handle the outside world, about how to make sure I didn't burn out. The conversation flowed naturally, the tension melting away until it felt like a family gathering rather than an intervention.

Slowly, one by one, the members started to drift away. Mina and Dahyun went to the kitchen to raid the fridge. Jeongyeon and Momo went to find a movie to watch. Nayeon and Jihyo stayed back for a bit to squeeze my shoulder one last time before retreating to their rooms.

Eventually, it was just me and Tzuyu left on the couch.

She stood up finally, stretching her arms above her head. I didn't let go of her hand. She looked down at me, surprised but soft, a small smile playing on her lips.

"I'll be right back," she murmured, squeezing my fingers. "I just need to change out of this morning's date dress. Wait for me in your room, okay?"

My heart skipped a beat. The promise in her eyes was clear. We weren't done.

"Okay," I said, my voice dropping. "I'll be waiting."

* * *

Half an hour later, a soft knock echoed through my room.

"Come in," I called out, sitting up on the edge of the bed. My heart was already beating faster, a mix of anticipation and lingering guilt making my palms sweat.

The door opened and Tzuyu stepped inside.

My breath hitched in my throat. She had changed out of the sophisticated, grey date outfit and into something else entirely—something that screamed *Tzuyu*. She wore a pink heart-patterned bralette, cute and innocent, but it was layered under a sheer, asymmetrical pink crop top that did nothing to hide the detail beneath. On her bottom half, she wore matching light pink drawstring sweatpants that sat low on her hips, exposing a strip of her smooth, flat stomach.

She looked like a dream. A soft, warm, attainable dream.

She walked over to me, stopping just between my knees. She didn't smile. She looked at me with an intensity that made my heart race.

"Oppa," she started, her voice soft but steady. "You told me that your detachment from our morning date wasn't because of me, but because you were worried about us."

I nodded, looking up at her. "It's the truth. I was scared of ruining things for you."

"But tell me honestly, Oppa," she continued, her fingers twisting together nervously. "Do you feel attracted to me like the other members? I know I'm quiet. I know I'm not as forward as Momo-unnie or as bold as Nayeon-unnie."

She took a shallow breath, her eyes searching mine for any sign of a lie. "Would you still be interested in me if I were just some random girl you passed on the street on the way home?"

Panic flared in my chest. I had hurt her so deeply today that she was doubting her own desirability. I opened my mouth, ready to launch into a fervent apology, to list every single thing I found attractive about her, to beg for her forgiveness—

"It would be better if you just show me."

Her voice dropped, turning husky and deep, stripping away the shy girl and revealing the woman underneath. She leaned down, cupping my face in her hands, and kissed me.

It wasn't the chaste, tentative kiss from this morning. It was a kiss filled with hunger, with weeks of pent-up longing. Her lips parted immediately, her tongue sweeping into my mouth to tangle with mine. She tasted like mint and desperation.

I groaned, my hands going to her waist, pulling her closer. I needed to show her. I needed to worship her until she never doubted herself again.

I stood up, lifting her easily. She wrapped her legs around my waist, her arms around my neck, never breaking the kiss. I carried her to the bed and laid her down gently, settling myself between her legs.

The mood shifted instantly. It wasn't frantic or rough; it was slow and deliberate. We were peeling back layers, both of clothing and of emotional armor.

I pulled the sheer crop top over her head, tossing it aside. The heart-patterned bralette clung to her skin. I traced the edge of it with my thumb, watching her nipples harden beneath the fabric.

"You're beautiful, Tzuyu," I whispered, bending down to press kisses along her collarbone. "You have no idea."

She arched her back, her fingers threading through my hair. "Show me," she breathed again.

I reached behind her to unhook the bralette, freeing her breasts. They were perfect—pale and soft, with rosy nipples that begged for attention. I took one into my mouth, sucking gently, swirling my tongue around the peak while my hand rolled the other between my fingers.

Tzuyu gasped, her head falling back against the pillows. "John..."

I spent a long time just learning her body. I kissed every inch of her skin, mapping the moles on her arm, the curve of her waist, the sensitive spot behind her knee. I wanted her to feel worshipped. I wanted her to feel like the only woman in the world.

When I finally tugged her sweatpants down, she lifted her hips to help me. She wasn't wearing underwear. The sight of her, bare and glistening for me, made my mouth water.

I settled between her thighs, kissing the soft skin there. She trembled, her breath hitching.

"Are you sure?" I asked, looking up at her.

She bit her lip, nodding slowly. "I've been waiting," she whispered, her cheeks flushing dark. "I want this to be real. I want to be yours."

My heart swelled so big it felt like it would crack my ribs. "I'll be gentle, Tzuyu. I promise."

I positioned myself at her entrance, my heart hammering. I wanted to savor this, to make it last. I pushed forward slowly, letting her body stretch to accommodate me.

The feeling was indescribable—hot, tight, and incredibly intense. She was so wet, so ready for me, but the emotional connection made every sensation sharper.

"Look at me, Tzuyu," I commanded gently.

She locked eyes with me, her gaze swimming with emotion and trust.

I pushed all the way in, burying myself to the hilt. We both moaned at the contact, the feeling of finally being joined after weeks of dancing around each other.

I didn't move immediately. I leaned down, kissing her deeply, pouring all the apology and love I couldn't say into the movement of my lips. When I began to move, it was slow. Long, deep strokes that dragged against her walls.

"John..." she breathed against my mouth. "You feel... so good."

I watched her face as I moved. Her eyes were half-closed, her cheeks flushed, her lips parted. She looked undone. She looked beautiful.

"You're perfect," I grunted, my pace increasing slightly. "So tight, so perfect."

The bed creaked softly under us, a rhythmic sound that mingled with our heavy breathing. The room smelled of her perfume—sweet and floral—and the scent of our arousal.

I reached down between us to find her clit, rubbing tight circles to match the rhythm of my thrusts. I wanted her to cum first. I needed her to feel nothing but pleasure.

Her breath hitched, her hips rising to meet mine. "Oh god... right there... don't stop."

"I won't," I promised. "I'm never going to stop."

The coil in my belly tightened, but I held back, focusing entirely on her. I wanted to see her fall apart.

"Cum for me, Tzuyu," I whispered, kissing her ear. "Let go."

She cried out, her body arching off the bed as her orgasm crashed over her. Her inner walls clenched around me, pulsing and rippling, dragging me right to the edge with her.

"John!" she screamed, her fingernails digging into my shoulders.

The sight of her climaxing, the sound of my name on her lips, broke me. I thrust deep, one last time, and let go.

"Tzuyu... fuck," I groaned, burying my face in her neck as I spilled inside her. Pulse after pulse of heat filled her, marking her as mine in the most primal way possible.

We collapsed together, a tangled heap of limbs and heavy breathing. I didn't pull out. I didn't want to. I rolled us onto our sides, keeping myself buried inside her, and wrapped her in my arms.

She nuzzled into my chest, her breathing slowly returning to normal. I stroked her hair, my heart feeling fuller than it had in years.

We didn't say anything else. The emotional weight of the day, the fear, the hurt—it all dissolved into the mattress. We were safe. We were one. I held her until her breathing evened out into sleep, and then I let myself drift off, surrounded by the scent of pink and warmth.

* * *

When I stirred awake, the room was dim, bathed in the soft orange glow of the setting sun.

I reached out instinctively, my hand seeking the warmth of Tzuyu's body.

My hand hit cold sheets.

My heart jumped with sudden, irrational panic. I bolted upright, my eyes scanning the room. She was gone. The bed felt empty, too big, too silent. Had she left? Had she regretted it?

Then my eyes landed on the nightstand. A small yellow Post-it note was stuck to the lamp, a cute little heart drawn in the corner with pink marker.

I snatched it up, my hands trembling slightly.

"I’m sorry for leaving you sleeping. You looked so peaceful and I didn’t want to disturb you. I had some things to do. Put on something nice and comfortable and meet me in the Fun Room whenever you wake up ♡"

I let out a long breath, the worry melting out of me, replaced by a warm, gooey feeling in my chest. I traced the heart with my thumb.

She wasn't gone. She was waiting.

* * *

I splashed some cold water on my face, staring at my reflection in the bathroom mirror. The man looking back looked different than he had a few days ago—softer around the eyes, maybe, but definitely happier. I brushed my teeth, ran a comb through my hair, and threw on a simple black t-shirt and a fresh pair of jeans. Comfortable, but nice. Just as Tzuyu had asked.

When I stepped out into the hallway, the dorm felt… wrong.

Usually, by this time of the evening, the place was vibrating with noise. You’d hear Momo and Dahyun wrestling over the remote, Jihyo on a conference call in the kitchen, or just the general chaotic hum of nine women living together.

Tonight, it was silent. Eerily so.

My footsteps echoed on the hardwood floor as I walked toward the Fun Room. The door was closed, and not a sliver of light escaped from underneath it.

I paused in front of it, checking my breath, my heart rate picking up a little. I reached for the handle, turning it slowly.

"Tzuyu?" I pushed the door open and stepped into the darkness. "Are you in here?"

Silence.

I frowned, stepping further inside. Maybe she was running late? I turned to leave and check the kitchen—

"SURPRISE!"

The room exploded with light and sound.

I nearly jumped out of my skin as colorful confetti rained down on me from above, popping loudly. I blinked rapidly, my eyes adjusting to the sudden brightness.

The Fun Room had been completely transformed. The furniture was pushed to the walls to create a massive dance floor in the center. Fairy lights were strung crisscross across the ceiling, casting a warm, magical glow. On the far wall, big, colorful cardboard letters spelled out: Congratulations on Completing Your First Rotation!

In the center of the room sat a massive cake, covered in candles that were already flickering. And standing around it, wearing sleek "night out" outfits and grinning like maniacs, were all nine members of TWICE.

I stood there, frozen, my mouth hanging open.

"Close your mouth, Oppa, you’ll catch flies!" Chaeyoung giggled.

"How…" I stammered, looking around the room in disbelief. "How did you manage to do all this in such a short time without me knowing?"

Nayeon stepped forward, wiping a tear of laughter from her eye. "It was originally supposed to be tomorrow night, after the schedule. But after the… incident this afternoon, Tzuyu convinced us to move it up."

Tzuyu stood near the back, looking shy but pleased. "I wanted to turn the bad day into a good one," she said softly.

"She also volunteered to keep you… occupied," Jihyo added with a sly wink, causing the room to erupt in catcalls.

I felt my face heat up. "Ah. Right. Well, you certainly succeeded."

The next hour was a blur of pure, unadulterated joy.

We cut the cake, smearing frosting on each other's noses and feeding each other bites. The cake was sweet, but the laughter was sweeter.

"To the third person in the world to sleep with all nine members of TWICE!" Dahyun toasted, holding up a can of soda.

"Dahyun!" Momo scolded, but she was laughing so hard she had to lean on Sana for support.

"I'm just stating facts!" Dahyun defended herself.

I buried my face in my hands, groaning as they all teased me, but I couldn't stop smiling. It felt good to be the butt of the joke, to be included in their inner circle like this.

We feasted on greasy takeout pizza and chips from the vending machine—foods that were usually strictly banned during promo periods—and washed it down with whatever drinks we could find in the fridge.

Then the karaoke machine was fired on.

The energy was electric. We were singing old K-pop hits, ballads, and even some western pop songs, shouting into the microphones, dancing without choreography. Mina, usually so reserved, was belting out a high note with surprising power. Jihyo was breakdancing in the middle of the rug.

It was perfect. It was chaotic. It was family.

Eventually, the adrenaline began to fade. The laughter quieted into a soft, comfortable hum. Someone switched the playlist from upbeat pop to soft, romantic ballads. The lights dimmed.

The mood shifted from a wild party to something more intimate, more meaningful.

I was standing near the cake table, finishing my drink, when suddenly the room went quiet.

I looked up to find all nine members looking at me. They shared a glance, a silent communication passing between them that I couldn't quite read.

Then, without a word, they moved as one.

They stepped forward, gracefully lowering themselves down to one knee. They formed a perfect circle around me.

My breath caught in my throat.

In each of their hands, they held a single, beautiful rose. Nayeon held a deep crimson red, Jeongyeon a soft pink, Momo a vibrant orange. The colors created a living bouquet around me.

Nayeon, still on one knee, looked up at me. Her eyes were shining, her face open and vulnerable, stripping away the playful unnie persona.

"John…" she began, her voice warm and serious. "We’ve talked about this a lot. We know this whole thing is crazy. We know it’s not normal."

She smiled softly. "But we also know how we feel when we’re with you. We feel safe. We feel happy. We feel like women, not just idols."

She lifted her rose a little higher. "So we wanted to do this properly."

The room was so quiet I could hear the hum of the refrigerator.

Then, in perfect unison, all nine voices filled the room—soft, sincere, and beautifully harmonized:

"Will you be our official secret boyfriend?"

The words hung in the air like a gentle spell.

I looked around the circle. I saw Jihyo’s steady, protective gaze. I saw Sana’s hopeful sparkle. I saw Mina’s quiet sincerity.

And then I looked at Tzuyu. She was looking at me with her heart in her eyes, her rose trembling just slightly in her hand. She was the one who had started this day in tears, and now she was here, giving me this gift.

My heart hammered so loudly I was sure they could all hear it.

I swallowed past the lump in my throat. I looked at each of them slowly, trying to pour every ounce of gratitude I felt into my gaze.

"…Yes," I whispered, my voice thick with emotion. "Of course I will."

The room erupted.

It wasn't the explosion of the surprise party; it was a wave of pure love. They surged to their feet, surrounding me in a massive, tight group hug. I was buried in a sea of perfume, lace, and laughter. Roses crunched gently between us, their petals falling like rain.

"We love you, Oppa!" Dahyun shouted.

"Don't ever leave us!" Momo cried.

"I won't," I said, hugging them back as best I could with nine arms wrapped around me. "I promise."

* * *

The celebration naturally wound down after that. The high energy melted into a warm, cozy contentment.

We were swaying gently to the music. Nayeon had pulled Jeongyeon into a silly spin, making her laugh. Momo was resting her head on Sana’s shoulder, eyes closed. Jihyo was quietly swaying with Mina, humming along to the song.

The room felt like a sanctuary.

I felt a soft tug on my hand.

I looked down to see Tzuyu standing next to me. She didn't say a word, just gently pulled me toward a quiet corner of the room, away from the center of the dancing.

We stopped near the window, where the moonlight was filtering in through the blinds, mixing with the fairy lights.

"Oppa…" she started, her voice soft but determined. "I have a challenge for you tonight."

I raised an eyebrow. "A challenge?"

She nodded, stepping closer and placing her hands on my chest. "I want you to slow dance with every single member. From eldest to youngest."

She looked up at me, her eyes dark and serious. "And I want you to kiss each of them. The same way you did on your individual turn with them."

I froze. "Tzuyu… the rule. 'No affection when it’s not your turn.' I don't want to make anyone uncomfortable."

She smiled, a shy, beautiful smile that melted my heart. "I’m okay with it."

She squeezed my hands. "They shouldn't miss out on love and affection just because it's not their turn yet. We’re in this together, remember? All nine of us."

I looked past her, scanning the room. I saw Nayeon watching us, a knowing smile on her lips. I saw Jihyo, resting her chin on Mina’s head, looking peaceful.

This wasn't just about romance. It was about uniting us. It was about making sure every single one of them felt valued, right here, right now.

I looked back at Tzuyu, feeling a wave of love so intense it made my knees weak.

"Okay," I whispered, leaning down to kiss her forehead. "I accept the challenge."

She beamed at me, stepping back and giving me a little push toward Nayeon.

"Go get her, Oppa," she whispered.

I took a deep breath, turning toward the eldest. The music swelled, a slow, romantic ballad filling the air. I walked toward Nayeon, my heart full, ready to dance with the women who had become my entire world.

* * *

The soft strains of a piano ballad filled the room, wrapping us in a blanket of intimacy. I took a deep breath, centering myself, and turned toward Nayeon. She was waiting, her hands clasped behind her back, a playful glint in her eyes that promised trouble—but the good kind.

I stepped up to her and extended my hand. "May I have this dance, Im Nayeon?"

She giggled, a sound that was pure music, and placed her hand in mine. I pulled her close, my arm wrapping around her waist. We fell into a slow, easy rhythm, swaying gently to the music. She felt light and warm against me, like sunshine after rain.

She rested her head on my shoulder, her breath tickling my neck. "Remember our first night, Oppa?" she whispered, her tone dropping to a sultry murmur. "I rode you like my favorite toy and called you my new favorite stress relief..."

She pulled back just enough to look me in the eye, a mischievous smile curving her lips. "I still want more of that bunny energy soon."

I chuckled, the sound rumbling in my chest. I tightened my hold on her waist. "I’ll make sure our next date has even more aegyo and mirror time. I wouldn't want to disappoint my favorite noona."

The song swelled, and I leaned down. I captured her lips in a deep, lingering kiss. She tasted like strawberry frosting and happiness. I felt her melt against me, her fingers tangling in the hair at the nape of my neck. When I pulled back, she looked dazed for a split second before glancing over my shoulder. I followed her gaze to see Tzuyu watching us, a soft, genuine smile lighting up her face. Nayeon grinned back at her, a silent exchange of approval passing between them.

I reluctantly let Nayeon go and turned to find Jeongyeon already waiting. She had a different energy—cooler, more grounded.

She stepped into my arms without hesitation, fitting against me like we’d been dancing together for years. She leaned into me, her weight comfortable and trusting.

"You remember how I pinned you first?" she asked, her voice low and teasing in my ear. "And then suddenly turned all soft and begged?"

I nodded against her hair. "I remember everything, Jeong."

She hummed, a satisfied sound. "I want more of those switch moments… and maybe a little thigh-riding again."

I smiled, pulling back to look at her. Her eyes were dark with amusement and desire. "I’ll plan a night where you can be as competitive or as sweet as you want," I promised. "I'm game for whatever Jeongyeon-ya needs."

I kissed her then, a tender press of lips that conveyed a deep, quiet affection. She responded with a slow intensity, her hand resting firmly on my chest, right over my heart. When we parted, she gave me a small, satisfied smile, her thumb brushing gently against my shirt.

Next was Momo.

She didn't wait for an invitation. She practically collided with me, wrapping her arms around my waist and clinging to me like a koala. I laughed softly, rocking her side to side.

"Oppa," she giggled, burying her face in my chest. "You spoiled me with jokbal and made me feel so cared for… I want more late-night snacks and clingy cuddles on our next date."

She looked up, her eyes wide and pleading. "Maybe even in the kitchen again?"

"Anything for you," I said, leaning down to kiss the tip of her nose. "Next time I’ll bring your favorite restaurant food and we’ll stay tangled the whole night. I promise."

I kissed her, warm and energetic, full of the bubbly joy that radiated from her. She tasted sweet, like the soda we’d been drinking. It was a kiss that felt like coming home to a warm blanket on a cold day.

Sana was next, and the air shifted instantly.

She stepped into my space, her hands immediately roaming up my chest to rest on my shoulders. She was touchy and affectionate, her eyes sparkling with a provocative light.

"Our night was so long and needy," she whispered, her voice like silk. "I still remember how full I felt. I want more all-night sessions where I can kiss you everywhere."

I swallowed hard, my body reacting instantly to the memories she was invoking. "I’ll make sure our next date goes until dawn again," I replied softly. "I won't let you sleep."

She bit her lip, a flush rising on her cheeks, and pulled me down. The kiss was deep and passionate, her lips moving against mine with a practiced, hungry rhythm. She poured everything into it—her warmth, her desire, her vibrant spirit. I held her tight, anchoring her as she explored my mouth.

When we finally broke apart, we were both breathless. Sana winked at me, biting her lip one last time before sashaying back to her spot.

I turned to Jihyo. The leader.

She approached me with quiet grace, her movements fluid and calm. As I took her in my arms, I felt the weight she carried every day—and the relief of setting it down.

She looked up at me, her eyes caring and filled with a profound exhaustion that I was honored to help alleviate. "That night you let me rest and took care of me…" she began softly. "I needed that more than you know. I want more moments where I don’t have to be the leader."

My heart ached for her. I pulled her closer, resting my cheek against her temple. "Whenever you need it, I’ll be there to take care of you," I whispered. "You just have to ask, Park Jihyo."

The kiss was slow and full of emotion. There was no rush, no urgency—just a profound connection. Her lips were soft and yielding against mine, a silent promise of trust and vulnerability. It was the kind of kiss that anchored a soul.

Mina stepped up next, elegant and shy.

I held her hands at first, giving her space, but she stepped closer, resting her head lightly on my chest. She felt fragile, like a bird that might fly away if I moved too fast.

"The surprise dinner," she murmured, her voice barely audible over the music, "and the way you let me explore my dominant side… it made me feel so safe. I want more quiet, intimate nights like that."

I kissed the top of her head, inhaling her soft scent. "We’ll have as many peaceful dates as you want, Mina-yah," I reassured her. "Whatever makes you feel safe."

I lifted her chin gently and kissed her. It was a graceful, deep kiss—slow and deliberate. She responded with a hesitant sweetness that gradually bloomed into confidence. It was like watching a flower open in the moonlight.

Then came Dahyun.

She bounced over, her energy infectious. She grabbed my hands and spun us around, making me laugh.

"Oppa!" she beamed, her bright smile lighting up the dim corner. "Our fun room night was so fun and messy… I still can’t believe how wild I got."

She giggled, hiding her face in my shoulder for a second before looking back up with a cheeky grin. "I want more movie nights and roleplay soon."

I couldn't help but chuckle at her enthusiasm. "Next time we’ll play even longer," I promised. "And we can act out whatever movie you want."

I kissed her—light-hearted but full of affection. It was a quick, pecking kiss that made her crinkle her nose and giggle against my lips. It felt like pure joy.

Then, I turned to Chaeyoung.

She stood with her hip cocked, exuding a cool confidence that contrasted sharply with Dahyun's energy. She stepped into my arms, her hands moving immediately to trace the tattoos on my arm through the fabric of my shirt.

"Oppa," she whispered, her voice artistic and bold. "Our mirror night and the bubble bath… I felt so seen. I want more creative, passionate nights together."

Her fingers danced along my skin, sending shivers down my spine. "I want to make art with you," she added simply.

I looked into her eyes, seeing the deep, creative soul there. "We’ll make as many artistic memories as you want," I answered sincerely. "I'm your canvas."

I pulled her in, kissing her with an intensity that matched her own. The kiss was passionate and deep, a clash of lips and tongues that spoke of unbridled creativity and fire. She didn't hold back, and neither did I. When we finally pulled apart, the air between us felt charged with electricity.

I looked around the circle of women, my chest tight with an overwhelming sense of love. Then I looked toward the corner, where Tzuyu was waiting. The final dance.

* * *

The soft melody of the final song seemed to fade into the background as I turned to the last woman waiting for me. Tzuyu stood there, her hands clasped demurely in front of her, but her eyes were burning with a quiet, intense fire. She had watched every dance, every kiss, and instead of jealousy, her face was glowing with a soft, profound happiness.

I stepped into her space, wrapping my arm around her waist and pulling her flush against me. We swayed gently, our foreheads almost touching, our breath mingling in the tiny gap between us.

"Thank you for doing this, Oppa," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the fading music. "I wanted everyone to feel loved tonight."

"I just did what you asked," I whispered back, brushing a stray lock of hair behind her ear. "I wanted to make it right."

A mischievous glint sparked in her eyes, contradicting her innocent demeanor. "Since you’ve passed my challenge... you get to take me to your bedroom and have your way with me tonight."

Before I could even process the words, she launched herself at me. I caught her easily, her legs wrapping around my waist as her lips crashed against mine. The kiss was searing, full of weeks of pent-up desire and the adrenaline of the night.

"We're leaving!" I managed to gasp out between kisses, stumbling toward the door.

Behind us, the room erupted in wolf whistles, cheers, and applause. "Don't break her!" Momo shouted. "Use protection!" Dahyun yelled, "Or don't! You guys would make a cute baby together." followed by Nayeon’s laughter.

I didn't look back. I carried Tzuyu out into the hallway, kicking the door shut with my heel to muffle the noise. We moved blindly, lips locked, hands roaming, stumbling down the corridor until we crashed through the door of "The Manager's Bedroom."

I kicked it shut and locked it, finally lowering her onto the bed.

The atmosphere shifted instantly. The playfulness of the party was gone, replaced by a heavy, electric tension. Tzuyu looked up at me, her chest heaving, her lips swollen and wet. She reached up, pulling her crop top off and tossing it aside, leaving her in just the sheer black lingerie.

I hovered over her, capturing her mouth again, kissing her with a slow, deliberate intensity that made her toes curl. My hands explored her body, tracing the curves of her waist, her hips, the soft skin of her stomach.

She broke the kiss suddenly, her hands resting on my chest, pushing me back just an inch. Her eyes were dark, dilated with lust, but there was a seriousness there too.

"Oppa," she breathed, her voice trembling slightly. "There's... there's one thing I haven't given anyone yet."

I stilled, looking down at her. "What is it, baby?"

She bit her lip, her cheeks flushing a deep crimson. "I want you to take my anal virginity tonight."

The words hit me like a physical blow. My cock throbbed in response, instantly hard. "Tzuyu... are you sure?"

She nodded firmly, reaching up to stroke my cheek. "I trust you. I want to give you everything. I want to be yours in every way possible."

"Okay," I whispered, my voice rough with desire. "We'll go slow. I promise."

I stood up and stripped off my clothes, then helped her out of her short and panties. When she was bare before me, I took a moment to just look at her—flushed, vulnerable, and incredibly beautiful.

I grabbed the lube from the nightstand, coating my fingers generously. I knelt between her legs, lifting one of her knees to open her up to me. I leaned down, kissing her inner thighs, tasting her skin, relaxing her.

"Relax for me, Tzuyu," I murmured, pressing a lubed finger against her tight rear entrance.

She gasped at the sensation, her body tensing for a split second before she forced herself to breathe out. "Okay... okay."

I worked slowly, stretching her gently with one finger, then two. I watched her face carefully, looking for any sign of pain, but all I saw was pleasure—a mix of surprise and intense arousal. She was moaning softly, her hips rocking slightly against my hand.

"John," she whined, her head thrown back. "Please... I want you."

I couldn't wait any longer. I slicked up my cock, positioning the head at her puckered entrance. I looked into her eyes, seeing nothing but trust.

"Push out for me, baby," I commanded softly.

I pushed forward slowly. The resistance was incredible, a tight, hot ring of muscle fighting me. I groaned at the pressure, forcing myself to go slow, inch by agonizing inch.

Tzuyu cried out, her fingernails digging into my biceps. It was a mix of pain and pleasure, a stretch she had never felt before.

"You're doing so good," I gritted out, sweat beading on my forehead. "You're taking it so well."

Finally, I was buried to the hilt. I stilled, giving her time to adjust, letting her get used to the feeling of being completely full.

"Move," she breathed after a moment, her eyes locking onto mine. "Please move."

I pulled back slowly, then thrust back in. The friction was mind-blowing. She was so tight, so hot, gripping me like a vice.

"God, Tzuyu," I groaned, my control snapping. "You feel incredible."

I established a rhythm, slow at first, but quickly speeding up as her body relaxed and opened up for me. The sounds of our skin slapping together filled the room, mixing with her breathless moans.

"Yes! Yes, harder!" she cried out, her voice rising in pitch.

I grabbed her hips, pounding into her tight ass, watching her breasts bounce with every thrust. She looked like a goddess—wild, undone, and completely mine. The sight of her taking me so eagerly, the feeling of her tightest channel milking me, was driving me insane.

I reached down, finding her clit and rubbing it furiously in time with my thrusts.

"Oh god, John, I'm gonna cum!" she screamed, her back arching off the bed. "Don't stop! Don't stop!"

"Cum with me, Tzuyu," I growled, feeling my own orgasm barreling down the tracks.

With a loud cry, she shattered. Her body convulsed, her ass clamping down around me like a vice, and that was it. I buried myself deep inside her and let go, pouring myself into her, marking her deepest place with my heat.

We collapsed together, panting, our bodies slick with sweat. I stayed inside her for a long moment, enjoying the aftershocks of her orgasm, before slowly pulling out.

She whimpered at the loss, rolling onto her side. But I wasn't done with her yet.

"Turn over, baby," I whispered.

I gently laid her on her back, my hands and lips beginning a slow worship of her body. I kissed her neck, her collarbone, her breasts, paying special attention to her sensitive nipples. I kissed my way down her stomach, worshipping the soft skin of her thighs, tasting the arousal that coated them.

I moved back up, positioning myself between her legs. My cock was already hard again, desperate for her.

"I need to be inside you properly," I said, my voice rough with need.

I entered her soaking wet pussy in one smooth thrust. She was so wet, so ready for me.

"Fuck," I groaned, burying my face in her neck.

I didn't hold back. I fucked her hot and hard, just like she needed. The bed rocked violently, the headboard slamming against the wall. She met me thrust for thrust, her legs wrapping around my waist, pulling me deeper.

"Yes, John! Just like that!" she moaned, her eyes rolling back.

I could feel her tightening around me again, her second orgasm building fast. I slammed into her, over and over, driving her toward the edge.

"Cum for me," I ordered.

She screamed, her body bucking beneath me as she came again, her walls pulsing around my cock. I rode her through it, prolonging her pleasure, until she was a trembling mess beneath me.

But I still hadn't finished. I needed more.

I pulled out and maneuvered us so we were lying on our sides, facing each other. I lifted her leg, hooking it over my body, and slid back inside her.

This time, the pace was different. Slow. Deep. Soulful.

I looked into her eyes, seeing everything she felt for me reflected back. Love, trust, devotion.

I moved inside her with agonizing slowness, savoring every inch, every clench of her muscles. We weren't just fucking anymore; we were communicating on a primal level. Our bodies were speaking the words our hearts couldn't fully express.

The coil in my belly tightened again, slower this time, more intense. I could feel her building with me, her breathing syncing with mine.

We moved together, lost in the rhythm, lost in each other. The world outside ceased to exist. There was only Tzuyu, her heat, her scent, her love.

"John..." she whispered, her eyes fluttering shut.

"Look at me," I said gently.

She opened her eyes, locking them with mine. That was it. The connection snapped.

With a low groan, I buried myself as deep as I could go and let go. Tzuyu cried out softly, her body shuddering as she came with me. We pulsed together, wave after wave of pleasure washing over us, binding us together forever.

I didn't pull out. I held her close, keeping myself buried deep inside her, wanting to stay connected as long as possible.

Exhaustion hit us both like a wave. The emotional rollercoaster of the day and the physical intensity of the night had taken their toll.

I pulled the blanket up over us, cocooning us in warmth. Tzuyu snuggled into my chest, her breathing already slowing down into the rhythm of sleep.

"Goodnight, my Tzuyu," I whispered, kissing the top of her head.

She murmured something unintelligible in her sleep, a small smile on her lips.

I closed my eyes, listening to the sound of her breathing, feeling the steady beat of her heart against mine. I knew the morning would bring new challenges, new schedules, and the crazy reality of our life.

But tonight, in this room, with the woman I loved in my arms, everything was perfect. We had found our home in each other.

And as I drifted off, I knew that no matter what the world threw at us, we would face it all together. The nine of them, and me. One big, chaotic, beautiful family.

Forever.

[THE END]

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