#hyungwon fluff

"you," you say simply.

he hums in approval, his grip on you tightening just a fraction. "good answer."

you roll your eyes but can't help the way your heart stumbles when he shifts, his other hand coming up to tuck a loose strand of hair behind your ear. his fingertips barely graze your skin, but the touch sends warmth straight to your chest.

"you're so warm," you murmur, nuzzling into the fabric of his hoodie.

hyungwon chuckles, the sound low and soothing. "that's because you're cold," he says, pressing a soft kiss to the top of your head. "you always are."

you scoff lightly. "are you saying i use you for warmth?"

"i'm saying i let you," he corrects, a teasing glint in his eyes.

you huff, but the truth is, he's right. his body is like a personal heater, and right now, with the rain whispering outside and the lights dimmed, there's nowhere else you'd rather be.

his fingers continue their slow, feather-light tracing over your skin, traveling from your hand to your wrist, up the length of your arm. it's a simple touch, but it makes you hyperaware of how close he is, how easy it would be for him to feel the way your heart is racing against his.

"you know," he murmurs after a moment, "i could stay like this forever."

your heart skips.

there's something about the way he says it—so quiet, so certain, like he's not just speaking in passing but actually meaning it.

you pull back just enough to look at him, only to find out he's already watching you. his gaze is unreadable, but there's something soft about it, something so tender that makes your breath catch.

"you always say things like that," you whisper, feeling shy all of a sudden.

hyungwon smiles, brushing his nose lightly against yours. "because i always mean them."

your chest tightens, warmth spreading all the way to the tips of your fingers. you don't know how he does this–how he makes the most simple moments feel like something out of a dream.

you swallow, trying to steady yourself. "then don't just say it. show me."

his smile falters for a split second, like he wasn't expecting that. but then his expression shifts, something unreadable flickering behind his eyes before he exhales softly.

and then—without hesitation—he tightens his hold on you, pulling you impossibly close until there's barely any space left between you. his arms secure you against him, his chin resting against the top of your head, his heart beating steady and strong beneath your ear.

"this enough proof for you?" he whispers.

you barely manage to nod, too flustered by the sudden closeness and his grip on you.

but hyungwon isn't done.

he shifts slightly, his fingers tracing slow, delicate lines down your spine. his lips press against the top of your head, lingering there before trailing lower—his forehead brushing against your temple, the tip of his nose grazing your cheek. his movements are slow, deliberate, like he's savouring every inch of contact.

and then—so soft you almost miss it—he whispers, "i love you."

your entire body stills.

hyungwon has said sweet things before. he's teased you, made you blush, made your heart race a thousand times over. but this—this is different. this isn't a passing flirtation or an attempt to fluster you. this is real.

your fingers tighten around the fabric of his hoodie as you pull back just enough to look at him. he watches you carefully, his expression unreadable, like he's waiting for you to run.

but you don't.

instead, you reach up, gently cupping his face in your hands. your thumb brushes over his cheek, and for once, he's the one who looks flustered. his breath hitches slightly, his lips parting as if he wants to say something more—but you don't give him the chance.

instead, you close the distance, pressing a soft, lingering kiss to his lips.

it's slow—unhurried, warm, like sinking into something familiar yet electrifying all at once. his hands move to cradle the back of your head, holding you close as he deepens the kiss just slightly, just enough to make your stomach flip.

when you finally pull away, your foreheads remain pressed together, the air between you thick with something unspoken but understood.

"i love you too," you whisper, just loud enough for him to hear.

hyungwon exhales sharply, a soft, breathless laugh escaping him before he pulls you right back into his arms.

"took you long enough," he murmurs, voice filled with nothing but warmth.

You roll your eyes but let yourself sink into him, smiling against his hoodie as his fingers trace soft shapes against your back.

the rain outside continues to fall, the city stretching beyond, but none of it matters.

because right now, wrapped in hyungwon’s arms, you realize that this—this quiet, sleepy, love-filled moment—is home.

As you laze around on your couch, you get a text from your boyfriend that says, “Wanna come over?” And you smile as you text back, “I’ll be there in ten.” You throw on your shoes and walk over to his dorm. You knock, and he opens the door and kisses the top of your head. You smile and kick off your shoes as he leads you to the living room. And you both collapsed onto the couch. 

You lay your head across his lap as he turns on the television. “You know I was doing the same thing at my apartment?” He shrugs and looks down at you, “Yeah, but isn’t it more fun together?” You laugh and nod, “Always.” He asks, “What movie tonight?” “Something we’ve seen before?” He hums and flips it onto the notebook, “Why do we always watch this sad movie?” He shrugs, “You said something we’ve seen before.” You sigh, “I did say that.” He laughs, and you both watch on. He grabs a pop can from the coffee table, hands it to you, and grabs his own. “Thanks.” He smiles, and you crack it open before leaning up to drink a few sips before putting it back onto the coffee table and collapsing back onto his lap. He groans, “Jeez,” and sets his can down, you laugh, “Sorry.” He smiles down at you and kisses your forehead, and you both return to watching the movie. 

It’s halfway through the movie when you catch him looking down at you instead of the screen. You raise your eyebrow at him, and he whispers, “You need to stop looking so kissable.” You blush, “What?” He smirks before cradling your head and lifting your head to kiss you. You gasp, “Fuck, Hyungwon, you can’t just do that out of nowhere.” He smirks and shrugs, still holding you close, “And you can’t just look so kissable all the time.” You roll your eyes and lean up to kiss him again. “I don’t think this movie is that interesting anymore.” He smirks, “Really?” You shake your head, and you both readjust so you have your arms around his neck and sit on his lap to kiss him some more. 

He holds you close, fingers tangling into your head, “I can’t believe I get to have you all to myself.” You pull back to laugh before capturing his lips into another kiss, “I love you.” He groans, pulling away from the kiss, “Fuck, I love you too, babe.” You smile and tangle your hands into his hair, trying to bring him closer, “I can’t get enough of you.” He grins as he whispers against your lips, “I can’t get enough of you either.” Before capturing your lips in his again, you grind your hips into his, and you both stutter out a groan. He tightens his hold in your hair as he licks your bottom lip. You gasp, and he slips his tongue into your mouth. You give up and let him as you grind down harder on him. He pulls back from your lips, leaving a trail of saliva connecting you both, and you two can’t help but laugh before you bring him into another kiss. 

He moves his hands from your hair to your hips and starts controlling your movements against his hips. Against your lips, he whispers, “That’s it, baby.” You gasp as his lips move from yours to your neck. He starts sucking a hickey onto your collarbone, and you groan, and he continues nibbling on the skin until he finds the spot that has your hips stuttering against his. “Won, please…” “Hmm?” He murmurs against your neck, leaving you shivering, “Fuck, please... y’know?” He shakes his head, “Hmm, I’m not quite sure I do.” You groan out in frustration, pull back from his lips, move your hands down from his soft hair to his shirt, and tug on it. “Is that what you want?” He asks, all cocky with his eyebrows raised. You sigh and shake your head as you tug on it, “No, y'know what I want…” He smirks, “I'm still not sure I do…” He relinquishes his hold and allows you to pull the shirt over his head. You run your hands over his chest, and he shivers. 

He moves one hand back into your hair as he grinds his hips into yours. “What if we finish just like this?” You pout as he brings his lips to yours, “Huh? What do you say?” You whine, “No, Won, please…” He nods, and without a second word, he pulls your shirt up and over your head. “You look so beautiful, my dear.” You blush and kiss his nose, and he shakes his head, “If you want me to fuck you, you better kiss me right.” You nod and immediately kiss his lips. As you make out with him, you feel his hips stutter underneath you. And he asks, “Are you close, baby?” You nod, not able to form a comprehensible answer. 

He reaches into the side table beside him and pulls out a little packet, and you make a note in your blurry mind to ask him about that later. He has you sit up from him, and he quickly shoves his pants and briefs down enough for his cock to spring out. He quickly rolls the condom onto himself as you step off of him and slip out of the rest of your clothes. He brings you back into his embrace and carefully slips himself inside of you, “You still close, baby?” You nod, “Good.” You sigh as he slides completely into you, “Shi-shit, Hyungwon, I’m not- I’m not gonna last…” He groans and pulls you into another kiss. Against your lips, he mumbles, “Me neither.” As he thrusts up faster into you, you do your best to meet his pace before he pulls you down and slams your hips together in tandem. “I-I- Won- please… I’m…” He groans and starts thrusting inside of you faster, “C’mon, baby… You got this, cum with me.” You pull back from his lips, “Won, I’m going to-” “Fuck, me too.” You plant your lips against his as you cum together. 

He pulls away breathlessly, placing his forehead against yours as he grows soft. “Shit, that was so hot…” You agree as you try to catch your breath, “I know, you know, but you're a great kisser.” He smiles and kisses the side of your lips, “You’re not so bad yourself~” You roll your eyes and slip off of him, “If you want to kiss me, you better kiss me properly.” You settle back onto his covered thighs as he laughs. And he pulls you into another heated kiss. When you both pull away again, you ask, “You want to continue upstairs?” He nods, “This time you’ll do a majority of the work?” You shrug and give him a lazy smile, “Only if you carry me up.” He laughs, “I can live with that.” 

—Bonus—

Minhyuk:

Rather than being greeted with a kiss and a “Welcome home, love”, Y/N was greeted with the strong smell of fresh paint and the humming of her lover, Minhyuk. 

Her brows raised in slight confusion the more she inched into their new home. The once beautiful spruce wooden floor was now covered in a clear tarp that seemed to fall victim to the wet paint. 

Y/N knew the song Minhyuk was humming. A catchy American oldy by Elvis. Even though their wedding was fresh, Y/N noticed how Minhyuk held onto every little detail from the wedding as long as possible. The song, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” was the song they chose to have their first dance together to, and if Minhyuk didn’t cry when he first saw her walking down the aisle, he certainly did when they had their first dance. 

“I thought you were going to wait for me.” She felt bad for laughing the moment Minhyuk jumped in fear. Wild eyes met her own, his frown was soon replaced with a joyous smile.

“You can still join.” Minhyuk’s eyes held a spark of hope as he spoke, “I didn’t get much done, anyways.”

Moving deeper into the apartment, Minhyuk’s free hand was immediately held out for her own, desperately wanting her touch. Her fingers met his and he pulled her close, his lips meeting her cheek without a second thought.

“You know, I don’t think I would’ve done this with anyone else.” Minhyuk’s sentence caused her to raise a brow, her attention now fully on him.

“I sure fucking hope not, Lee Minhyuk.”

Kihyun:

It was the smell of earthy warmth - nutty, rich, with a hint of sour components and the same heaviness - that woke Y/N up from her deep sleep. Sitting up, she blinked against the harsh morning light, trying to think of what was being made.

Coffee. 

Sitting up, her eyes glanced around the room, then drifted down to her lap. She noticed almost right away the lack of clothing. A soft blush formed on her face as the memories of last night came crashing down. The night was still fresh on her mind. A new home to make many memories in.

She stood up, quickly noticing how the cool air ate away at her skin. Looking around the room, her eyes landed on a stray white button-up shirt throwing it on as she ventured outside for the first time that morning.

The smell of coffee had her hooked as she made her way out of the room and down the hall. The new apartment felt almost foreign to her. Each inch of the apartment waiting to be a part of a new story.

“There you are.” Her voice was soft as she padded her way closer to him. “And he cooks? I think I married well.” 

His chuckle was light as he heard her joking tone. Turning to glance at her, he shot her his own sleepy morning smile. Placing a quick peck on his cheek, she turned her attention to her awaiting coffee cup, the steam telling her it was just made.

“Good morning to you, as well. Breakfast will be done soon.” Kihyun hummed as she glanced at him. His smile was never fading even for this time of morning. “Your mom swung by earlier.”

This caused her to turn to him with a raised brow. It hadn’t been long since they returned from Jeju island and her mother was already coming around?

“What did she want?”

“She made us the cookies we like so much.” 

This caused Y/N to slightly roll her eyes. She knew her mother a bit too well, and whether Kihyun was turning a blind eye to her mother's actions or not, she wouldn’t know.

“The cookies you like, Kihyun. You have my mother wrapped around your finger. I swear I don’t know how you exactly do it.”

“Does it matter as long as I do it for you?”

“I guess you make a good point.”

Hyungwon:

The bright smile Y/N held was undeniably adorable. Like a kid on Christmas morning, the smile lit up her eyes and he watched her look over the almost crowded hotel room. Her mouth was parted slightly in a mix of shock and happiness.

It had taken him almost four hours to make something as simple as a blanket fort. 

Four hours of hoping she would be distracted long enough that he could fulfill this unspoken promise to her, so she could relive such a massive childhood event. He watched as she turned to him in excitement, her mouth opening and closing as she wasn’t sure of what to say.

“Hyungwon…” She finally spoke, tears brimming her eyes as she took another look at the pillow fort. “Did you do this?”

Hyungwon’s proud smile was massive as he nodded. He wasn’t going to deny he put so much effort into this for her.

“Go look inside.”

Listening to his words, she moved towards the parted blanket, glancing inside. Hyungwon watched as she looked around, her smile never leaving, even as her eyes fell on the pile of snacks right next to his dimmed laptop. 

He was thrown off guard the second she threw her body at him, the both of them falling on the carpeted ground.

“I don’t deserve you.” She whispered, holding him close. 

“Anything for my beautiful wife. We’ll ditch our dinner reservations for some pizza and soda. How’s that?”

“God, you read my mind.”

Jooheon:

“I understand that, but can’t we move the meeting until next Wednesday? I just got home from my honeymoon and I feel like jumping into meetings is just too much.”

The bubbling frustration mixed with her words well. It wasn’t even a day of being home before she was hounded with news of upcoming meetings and proposals. Her eyes found her lover's, who sat on the couch watching her where she stood. 

The words of her assistant pulled her back to reality. Turning her attention away from her curious husband, her focus was now on the call. Just for a moment, she just wished someone could understand her situation. 

It was just too soon.

Before the frustration became too much, a pair of arms that wrapped around her body were her saving grace. Glancing over at her other half, she watched as he placed his head on her shoulder.

“Is everything ok?” He whispered softly as his fingers softly massaged her skin. 

“Work.” She whispered, trying to pay attention to her assistant. 

At her answer, Jooheon’s face scrunched up in disappointment. His eyes snapped towards her phone and before she knew it her phone was in his hands.

“I think you should listen to her. We just got back from our honeymoon and she’s exhausted. Tomorrow is too soon for her to be worried about meetings. That’s all.”

Her eyes were wide as she watched him hang up with a triumphant smile. Turning to her with his dimpled smile forced a smile of her own.

“You didn’t need to do that, Joo…”

“I did,” He spoke, his arms reaching out to pull her close. “We just got back from the first seven days of the rest of our lives. Work can wait for another two.”

Changkyun:

It was roughly nine in the morning when the birds outside woke Changkyun up with their morning song. Turning on his side, Changkyun’s breath was caught in his throat at the sight of his wife. The morning sun allowed enough light to peek through the semi-parted curtains and onto her sleeping form.

The distance between their bodies was next to nothing, but he didn’t care. A smile slowly grew on his face as he reached out to brush the stray strands of hair from her face. Almost unbothered by such actions, he watched as his wife slowly smiled in her sleep.

Just two weeks ago, she gave him her love for the rest of their lives. Just one week ago, he was mesmerized by her smile while they walked around her dream vacation. Just this morning, he was taken aback by her beauty. 

His fingers stilled at her slight movement, his breath once again caught in his throat, fearing that he had woken her up.

“Good morning, Mr. Im.” Her voice was soft as her e/c eyes finally opened to meet his own. She was greeted with his soft, love-filled smile. 

“Good morning, Mrs. Im. I… I hope I didn’t wake you.”

Her answer was a tired head shake. He watched as she snuggled deeper into the white fluffy pillow, her tired smile never fading, “You didn’t wake me, baby. Your soft touch would’ve kept me in my sleep if I wasn’t so excited to spend another day with you.”

Wonho:

Hoseok remembered the first time he met Y/N. It was cliché. A simple accidental bump in and her apologizing profusely for such an accident. What surprised him the most was how she didn’t recognize him. To her he was a simple man amongst the sea of others. 

He remembered how fast his heart raced as she gave him a smile. How he couldn’t allow her to leave in fear he’d never see her again. So, with a huff of courage, he asked for her number. He remembered how surprised she was, but regardless she gave it to him. 

He remembered the courage he had built up for their first date. How well their first date went. He could remember each detail perfectly. How beautiful she looked under the moonlight and how her attention was simply on his.

Five beautiful years and he finally had the courage to ask her to be his wife. 

He remembers each detail about their wedding night. How he didn’t care how stupid he looked if he cried as she walked down the isle. How her beauty was incomparable to anyone he has ever met. How she was his.

“I’m so happy with you, Mrs. Lee.” Hoseok whispered the moment he was able to wrap his arms around his wife.

Her giggles were like music to his ears. His favorite song in all of the world.

 You always texted him around lunch but today you were so busy you had forgotten. “I didn’t text him today. I have no clue where he is Min.” You rush out in a panic. 

 “Hey, hey, it’s going to be okay. We are going to find him y/n. I promise.” Minhyuks words begin to calm you down a little and you let out a deep breath. Minhyuks shoulders relax at the sound of it. “Do you want me to come over? I know how you must be feeling and I don't want you to be alone.” He asks softly. 

 “Yes please, Can you bring Changkyun too?” You ask and then you hear muffled talking. You wipe a tear away as Minhyuk comes back to the phone. 

 “We’ll  both be at yours in 20 okay?” Just try to breathe for me and drink some water while you wait for us.” 

 “Thank you Min, for everything you’re doing right now.” Before he could answer, Changkyun beat him to it. “Im helping too y/nnie!” He teases, making a hint of a smile appear in your face. 

 “Thank you Kyun.” You tease back. 

 The two men have smiles on their faces at your teasing and begin to feel a little better about having you wait for them alone. You hang up after that and go into the kitchen to get a glass of water. You gulp it down in seconds and then wait an agonizing 20 minutes until they guys get here. 

 Immediately when they walk through the door you pull them in for a much needed group hug. 

 “We’ll find him.” was the first thing Minhyuk said to you face to face. You had a feeling he wasn’t only saying it to you though. Someone’s phone starts ringing and you all quickly pull apart, frantically looking for who’s phone it was. 

 Minhyuk holds up his phone showing Shownus contact. He answers and puts it on speaker immediately hoping it’s only good news. 

 “You’re on speaker.” “Perfect, I know where he is. He called me from Zoe’s.” Shownu tells all of you and you could feel like breathing properly again. Zoe’s is an old ma and pa shop just outside of Daegu that Hyungwon would take you to all the time. Why is he all the way out there? 

 “We are going to go get him right?” You ask with a hint of worry in your voice. 

 “Well actually the main reason I called was because he only wants to see y/n.” Shownu states. Minhyuk and Changkyun look at each other and then you with a knowing stare. You stepped back surprised.

 “Why would he only want to see me?” 

 “You can’t be serious right?” Minhyuk says in a dead tone. You look at him with furrowed brows. “C’mon you can't not know.” 

 Changkyun then smacks Minhyuk's bicep. “Ow!” 

 “We drove my car so you can take it. I know yours is in the shop.” Changkyun hands over the keys and squeezes your hands. You stare at him still confused but the only thing you could really think of was getting to Hyungwon. Shownu shouts out to drive carefully and to let him know when you get there then hangs up. 

 To say you were scared would be an understatement. You couldn’t stop wiping your hands on your thighs, having erratic breathing and tears nearly falling. 

  You nearly stop breathing as you Hyungwon through the window, sipping on an iced coffee. He has dark circles under his eyes, he looks exhausted and you feel your heart crack. You take a deep breath and walk into the store. Hyungwon doesn’t look up, probably thinking it was just another customer. When you get a few feet behind him your eyes begin to burn. 

 “Hyungwon?” Your voice quivers. He turns around in his chair at lighting speed and nearly falls over. “y/n I-“ You cut him off by launching yourself into him. 

 “Don’t ever scare us like that again or I'll murder you in your sleep.” you mumble against him and you feel him let out a big sigh. He squeezes you tightly to him. “I'm so sorry y/n. I’ve been having a hard time with something and just needed some time to think. I didn’t mean to scare anyone.” He pulls you back a little to look at you properly. You see him scan your face and then motions for you to follow him. 

 “Can we walk for a bit?” He asks with his hand out for you. You slide your hand in his with no hesitation and the two of you exit the shop and begin walking. 

 Hyungwons thumb glides back and forth on the back of your hand and you squeeze lightly. There was a looming silence as you hadn’t thought of what you were going to say and you suddenly felt stuck. 10 minutes of walking and nothing had been said, you were beginning to get restless. 

 You waited to see if he would speak up but after another 5 minutes you decided to stop walking completely. Since your hands were still joined he had to catch himself from falling backwards. 

 “What’s wrong?” He asks with a confused face. 

 You swallow and blink a few times. Hyungwon steps in front of you, placing his hands gently on your shoulders. “What is it?” He says more serious. “Was it something we did? I did?” Your voice cracks and tears begin to well up in your eye line. 

  “I mean I know that with yours and Shownus album coming out soon things can be overwhelming for you and you want to be alone.” You pause to breathe. “You’ve never ghosted us like that. It scared me so much having Minhyuk tell me they couldn’t find you. I love you too much to have you leave like that and not know what causes it.” Your head is hanging down and your shoulders are shaking. 

 Hyungwon freezes. 

 You’ve told him you’ve loved him before, hell you tell all the guys you love them. For some reason though, this time felt different. Almost like you were indicating a different kind of love. That feeling is the same reason he needed to disappear today. 

 He had realized that somewhere in your 3 years of friendship he had fallen in love with you. The others obviously know bc Hyungwon genuinely can lie to them and when they asked he just blurted it out that yes, he is in love with you. He shakes his head, snapping out of his thoughts. 

 “I love you.” Hyungwon says with sudden confidence. Your head shoots up and you look at him confused. “What?” You respond. He cups your face in his hands, lightly caressing your cheeks. 

 “I. Love. You.” He tells you again. You open and close your mouth, not knowing how to respond. 

 “I remember exactly the moment I realized I love you. We were out with Kihyun and your friend Yuri. Those two went off somewhere and you grabbed my hand, pulling me into some random jewelry store. You practically dared yourself to get a piercing and you were holding my hand the whole time. Not because you were nervous or scared but because I was scared for you. You asked me if holding your hand would make me feel better and you didn’t hesitate to take it, even before I answered. I don’t know why, but you making sure I was okay, even though you were the one getting a needle through your nose, started to make me see you in a more romantic light.”  

 You laugh and out of sheer muscle memory, you reach up to touch your nose ring. Hyungwon glances down as it shimmers in the moonlight. He lightly traces over it and then his fingers dance their way down your jawline, catching your eyes staring at his lips. 

 “I’ve been having a hard time trying to figure out if I should tell you or not and I guess I was so in my head that I didn’t think to tell anyone I'd be gone. I love you. I have for a while now and I don’t know if you feel the same but, I can’t keep this inside anymore.” Hyungwon finishes with a big breath and looks at you with eyes filled with love and hope. 

 The tears from before have come back and you place your hands on his chest. “Hyungwon…I-“ You pause, not fully able to compute your emotions after hearing all of this. You feel him begin to pull away. “I'm sorry. I shouldn’t have just sprung this on you like this. I should’ve-“ 

 “No! God no, Hyungwon it's not like that. I’ve been feeling the same for nearly a year but I just kept pushing it away because I never would have thought you’d love me back.” You were so close to just grabbing his face and kissing him. You couldn’t believe you had been so oblivious to everything the both of you have been doing this past year. 

 His head snaps up to look at you, a small smirk on the corner of his mouth. “So if I asked you out on a date, what would you say?” He asks. 

  “I would say, I couldn’t think of anything better.” You smile at him. The next thing you know, he’s pulling you into a bone crushing hug and both of you start laughing. All the emotions crashing down began making you giddy. 

 “Can we go home now?” You ask while resting your chin on his chest, looking up at him. “Of course. I'm sorry again, for everything today.” 

 “Don’t worry about that anymore. We’ve cleared everything up Wonnie.” You tell him and reach up to peck his jaw. His cheeks become dusted with pink and he turns his head so you couldn’t see him getting flustered. 

 “Awww, don’t hide! I think it’s cute when you blush.” You poke his cheek and see him turn a deeper shade of pink. He rolls his eyes and playfully pushes you away.

  “Come on, let’s go home baby.” Now it’s your turn to blush. 

.

"Don't look at me like that," you muttered, looking up at Insu moodily.

"It looked like he was trying to inhale your face," your bodyguard muttered, eyes wide. "That must have been terrifying."

"I can't tell if you're trying to be an asshole or not," you sighed. Shoulders dropping, you leaned against the wall that Jackson had you pushed up against. "Had it ever occurred to you that I was enjoying it?"

"Not really," he chuckled, leaning against the wall beside you and crossing his arms. "Did you?"

"I thought so," you nodded. "He's very handsome. And very sweet."

"I wasn't asking why," Insu scoffed.

"I didn't say you were," you said, narrowing your eyes at him. "Why are we even talking right now? I'm still irritated with you."

"Oh right," he grinned. "Because I was the one to tell a complete stranger that you had severe hemorrhoids."

"He wasn't your date," you shrugged.

"Is now a bad time to talk?" he asked, suddenly turning serious. You remained silent, the question hanging in the air.

You knew he wasn't referring to your recent statement, but "talking" as a whole to fix whatever had broken between the two of you yesterday.

"Insu," you started slowly, trying to get your thoughts together. "You don't know me."

"I have never claimed to," he sighed. Adjusting his stance against the wall, he moved to face you. "But I know enough about what type of men you're dealing with to give some sort of warning."

"You don't know them either," you said quietly. "I understand that you're inherently protective, but protecting my heart is not part of your job."

Turning to lean his back against the wall again, Insu looked up to the ceiling, silent.

"I admit," you continued, not at all wanting to admit anything. "That there is...a level of comfortability between us."

"How sweet," he muttered.

"But that's not something I can afford to explore at the present time," you breathed. "As there are seven other men who are currently vying for my affections."

"Only seven?" he hummed. "What's another one thrown in there?"

"This isn't a joke," you groaned. "We need to be more professional."

"We?" he asked, lifting his brows. "I've never once, in the entire time of being contracted with My Idol, neglected your safety based off of my feelings. I am always alert and aware of any threats, including, but not limited to those men "vying for your affections.""

"You're getting more invested than you should," you said wearily, feeling suspiciously close to tearing up. "My life is beyond complicated."

"As you've mentioned."

"Disregarding the whole dating thing," you sighed. "I'm homeless right now."

"I don't think you realize..." he began. "That I am working for a production that you are also technically working for, making us coworkers. Are coworkers not allowed to have friendly relationships?"

"We are," you nodded. "But tell me you weren't jealous of me and Jackson's interactions."

"I was not jealous," he said simply.

Crossing your arms, you turned slightly away from him. He had to know that was bullshit.

"I was selfish."

You could only turn and blink up at him. "What?"

"I want to get to know you," he continued quietly, avoiding eye contact. "So badly. When I took on My Idol, this was just another job. Then I met you at a time when you were so broken. I wanted to protect you and make sure no one would hurt you again. I'm generally protective of my clients, but my feelings for you have been beyond confusing."

You swallowed. You had been in a proverbial dry spell for years. Suddenly though, your dating life had gone from raining to pouring.

"Why do they deserve a chance while I don't?" he continued, his face contorting into sadness, then anger. "Because they're celebrities? Because they're what the audience wants to see?

If it's the right time, right place for them...then I'm also here. What makes me so wrong? Why can't I learn about you and see where it goes?"

"This isn't real life," you murmured. "I am contractually obligated to see these men. If something happens during that contracted period, then great. Dating has been hard ever since I stepped foot in Korea. It's not that I don't want to acknowledge you as a potential suitor, but-"

"I just don't fit into that part of the story," he breathed.

"Insu," you whispered, the tears now dangerously close to falling. "You're not being fair to either of us."

"I know," he muttered, turning away from you completely. "I know. I'm being selfish. I'm putting my wants before what you, well, legally have to do."

"It's not wrong to be selfish sometimes," you cooed, tugging on the back of his suit jacket. "But right now, I'm asking you not to be."

"That's a tough ask," he said quietly.

Sick of speaking to his back, you walked around his body to stand in front of him.

"We can be friendly," you said sternly. He had to understand. "We can be coworkers, but you have to stop with these pre-conceived notions you have of the contestants. They all seem genuinely kind and happy to be able to date without ridicule. They're just people searching for a connection."

Insu remained quiet, biting his lip, and looking anywhere but at you.

"I know it's hard not to be angry...when you don't get a chance at something...at someone," you corrected. "But please, if you really care like you say you do, just go easy on me."

Exhaling through his nose, he finally glanced down toward you. "I will. Only because it's for you."

Slowly nodding, you looked up at him with a sad smile. He really was lovely, and in another life, you may have bumped into him, and fallen hard. It was best to nip this in the bud before the two of you grew past flirting and casual jealousy. Whatever issue he had regarding celebrities was likely unrelated to you and more so to his career. You were certain there was much more to his story than wanting a chance to date. He didn't seem like the type to go after things so trivially.

"Can I go to sleep now?" you asked, the question quieter and more fragile than you had anticipated.

"Of course," he breathed. Pivoting and walking toward your door, he already had your room key in hand. "I shouldn't have forced you into a conversation. I'm sure you're exhausted."

"No," you sighed. "It was good we talked."

"I'm not sure if "good" would be the word I would use," he grumbled.

This caused you to smirk. "It can be a good conversation without actually feeling good about it."

Insu furrowed his brow. "Do you feel good about it?"

"Absolutely not," you laughed. "But I don't really have a say over my own life right now, do I?"

..

During a time where you should be worried about the four incredible men who had each whisked you off your feet, your thoughts were plagued with the conversation you had with Insu. Playing it backwards and forwards in your head, you tried to find a way to make everyone happy. No matter how much mental gymnastics you did, there was no conclusion. The situation was impossible.

You knew from the moment you had met your bodyguard that you had the fattest crush on him. In fact, it was easy to admit at this point. He was good looking, certainly had a tragic backstory, and in general, seemed morally grey. It was all of your favorite tropes about the male leads in every single book you had read. He was a protector and he made you feel so safe in a time that was so uncertain. Maybe it was a touch of Stockholm syndrome, but who could blame you?

But it was all over now. You had to put your adult pants on and squash the small kindling that had been ignited. It was what was best for everyone.

Spinning the ring that Hongseok had made for you around your finger, you paced the length of your hotel room. After a few days break, you were finally slated for another date. With an estranged Insu and a generally stuffy Hyuk, your days had been long. You had met a handful of times with producers, as well as your old apartment complex. The police were still trying to sort out what exactly had happened during your break in. Suspects were hard to find when the entire country's eyes were focused on you.

Thinking back to the dates you had already been on, a thought struck you. You were over halfway complete with the first round. Four men had graced your life, while only three men were left waiting in the wings. It was an odd thought that you had met so many different personalities in the past two weeks. At times, this whole experience felt like a fever dream.

Your evening with Jungkook had been so simple in the best way. When meeting someone with the level of star power he had, you were expecting a big personality. It was refreshing to find him to be so down to earth. He was so expressive and understanding with his words and actions. Talking to him was like talking to a childhood friend. You had been at ease instantly and he still acted as a calming balm to your soul. Running into him in the hallway had only confirmed that.

The day you spent with Hongseok, however, felt like a true first date. It wasn't that you were totally awkward with each other, but you definitely had to warm up. After a strained first interaction, it was easy to see that he was tooth achingly sweet. With an endless supply of jokes and stories, the butterflies in your stomach knew no peace with him. If there was any consolation to your apartment being broken into, it was that he was the one to help you through it.

Rebounding from the shock of losing most of your worldly possessions, San was a perfect date to follow. The man was quite literally a walking green flag. His innocence and naturally cute mannerisms made you feel like you had been dropped inside of a rom com. He was a soft boy. Even after he had been injured, he worried about how you were doing. Plus, you had to begrudgingly admit, you kind of liked the nickname he had given you.

Your last date had still left you reeling. Being with Jackson was like constantly holding your breath. He was incredibly kind, but also incredibly hot. He oozed sex appeal, and it was easy to get lost in the idea of a first kiss with him. His date had been a little more involved than the others, but you felt like it had represented him well. He had so many different sides to him that it was hard to peg down. He was an enigma, and you were hopeful that you would get to explore your relationship more.

You closed your eyes as you heard a knock on the door. "Y/N," Insu called softly. "It's time."

Taking a deep breath, you nodded to yourself. Another evening date meant another appearance of Insu the chaperone. You knew he was likely to behave better this time, but you still hated that he essentially had to watch you date other people. It was unfair.

Unlocking your door, he pushed gently against it, causing it to swing in toward you. Turning to face him, you were surprised to find a smile on his face.

"Well, aren't you cute."

"Insu..." you warned.

"He said in a totally platonic way," he smirked, motioning for you to come into the hall.

Rolling your eyes, you walked past him, instantly feeling lighter. He had been a bit quiet since your big conversation, so it was nice to see him getting back to himself.

"How are you feeling?" he asked as he took his place behind you.

"Nervous," you breathed. "But the good kind I think."

"Good," he hummed. "I know it's been hard to think of anything but the chaos going on around you, but you deserve to have a good time. Really enjoy what's happening."

Shooting a suspicious look over your shoulder, you quirked a brow. "Thanks."

Your expression caused him to laugh. "What?"

"I just..." you murmured, trying to pick your words carefully. "Wasn't expecting for you to be supportive after our conversation the other day."

"I've done my pouting," he sighed. "I just want you to be happy."

Stepping into the elevator at the end of the hall, your heart skipped a beat. He was too good for you anyway.

"Thank you," you said after a moment of silence. "Really."

"There's nothing to thank me for," he offered.

Unable to come up with a reply before the elevator doors slid open, you reached over and gave his bicep a quick squeeze. Shuffling into the lobby, you looked around, surprised to see the driver and camera men the only ones waiting for you.

"What-" you started but were immediately interrupted by Wu.

"Your date wanted to take a different mode of transportation," he sighed. "We're meeting him at the venue."

"Different mode of transportation," Insu clucked. "I wonder what that means."

...

Standing on the sidewalk in front of a record store, you watched the sun begin to set on the horizon. The colors were beautiful, but the lack of direct sunlight already caused the temperature to begin to plummet. Shivering slightly, you tried not to get annoyed. Where was your date?

After another five minutes of waiting, you were jostled from your thoughts by the revving of a loud engine. Looking up, you were surprised to see a large motorcycle easing smoothly up to the curb. Surely that couldn't be...

The driver began to fiddle with his bike, turning it off before reaching for the helmet he had been wearing. Freeing his head, he shook out his hair and ran his fingers through it. Honestly, it felt like you were watching a movie as he slid from the cycle and looked your way.

As soon as your eyes met, it felt like your breath had been stolen from your chest. Who was allowed to be that good looking? Even after popping off a helmet, he looked like a dream.

Shaggy black hair, pouty lips, and doe eyes, the man strode toward you, obviously in no hurry. Dressed in a black jean jacket with a grey hoodie underneath, black jeans, and converse, it looked like he had walked out of a magazine.

Remaining silent until he finally made his way before you, he offered a shy smile. "Hi."

"Hi," you choked out, suddenly overly aware of the lack of saliva in your mouth.

Tilting his head as he watched you curiously, he instantly noticed your arms wrapped around your torso. Without saying a word, he tugged off his jean jacket and held it in your direction.

"No, I'm fine-" you started, a natural reaction to not wanting to cause anyone trouble.

Lifting his brows, he shook it a bit. As you continued to stare, he heaved a sigh before walking around you and placing the coat across your shoulders. Stepping back in front of you, he grinned. "I'm Hyungwon, from Monsta X."

"I'm Y/N," you croaked. "From My Idol."

Hyungwon's smile grew in size as heat began to instantly creep up your neck. How did someone's simple existence make you so flustered?

"Nice to meet you, Y/N from My Idol," he chuckled. "Why don't we get you out of the cold and head inside?"

"Yes, inside," you said dumbly, already heated by your sheer embarrassment.

Hyungwon smiled again as he took a place beside you, putting his hand across your lower back to guide you into the building.

His fingers felt like they were searing a hole into the denim. You mentally chided yourself as you stumbled forward. Get it together, Y/N, or risk this being the most mortifying night of your life.

.