#jaehyunfluff

“You’re not eating your meal.”

Yuta pulls you back to earth, noticing how you’ve been playing with your omelet instead of shoving it to your mouth.

“You’ve been dozing out recently, it started to get into my nerves.”

Yuta is always direct, he never sugarcoats his words. Clearly your action annoys him.

“It’s Jaehyun, isn’t it?”

You dropped your fork, telling Yuta that he shot a bullseye.

“Alright,” He rose from his seat, taking his plate and yours. “Eating is definitely not on your mind, sit on the couch, let’s talk.”

He quickly cleared the table, leaving you with no option but to obey him.

You make your way to the TV area. You spent so much time at Nakamoto's residence, you could practically walk there with your eyes closed. But it would be wasteful to do so, as the view from his window is always mesmerizing. Today is no exception, with how blue the sky is.

Usually, the view from his window is always complimented with your waves of laughters, because Yuta always managed to make you smile. But not today, or the last few weeks prior to the party. The unsettling feelings after the commotion last month still lingers.

“Here,” Yuta passes you a glass of water, which you immediately drank without hesitation.

“So,” He sat next to you, turning his body so he could face you. “When are you going to tell me that you’re still in love with him?”

You choked because he definitely took you by a surprise. You continuously tried to clear your throat. Feeling slightly guilty, Yuta helped you by tapping your back.

“What? No– I mean, Jaehyun and I, we’re a thing in the past and now I have you…”

“[Y/N],” He caressed your back, still worried about how he caused you to choke, occasionally pressing his thumb to give you gentle massages. “Any sane person would know that the feelings between you and Jaehyun are anything but over.”

You stayed quiet, completely did not expect out of all people it would be Yuta who calls you out.

“Listen, [Y/N],” He holds your arm, “We’ve been together for what, four months? And yet that night at the launch party, or the arresting party,”

You giggled at his remark, causing him to let out his signature radiant smile.

The comforting smile.

“I never saw you looking at someone with so much love. And that lucky person is no other than your ex.”

“But Yuta, I-”

“I’m not saying what we had wasn’t real.” He interjects, “It’s partly my fault anyway. I kinda force you into this relationship. So I do expect to be your rebound of some sort.”

“You’re not a rebound!” You quickly disagree with him, “It’s just…”

“I know, I know.” He finished your sentence. “We kissed, we even slept together –and don’t tell me I’m not good at it because you’d be lying.”

You smacked him real good at his arm, for continuing his jokes when the conversation is clearly not meant for any jokes –though you still give him the credit by laughing at it. “And, you are a wonderful person, [Y/N]. You didn’t let me do it after I spent nearly two months with you, and that’s a long time for a Nakamoto.”

“Because I know you care about my feelings too, and you really did try to like me. We spent many dates together, giving each other gifts and we shared lovely memories together. But I know whatever you shared with Jaehyun is something that I could never have.”

Your smile turns sour, at how true his statement is.

“Yuta, I’m sorry.” You finally couldn’t hold back the tears. “I tried, I really did. You are the most amazing person, you’ve patiently waited for me and I promise you I really, really cherish the moment we’ve spent together, but…”

Yuta hugs you, causing you to weep louder, wetting his shoulder. “I just… can’t seem to forget about Jaehyun. I don’t know, we’ve spent an equal amount of time like what I did with him, and yet–”

“You don’t choose who you fall for, [Y/N].” He caresses your hair, shushing your sobs. “As cliche as it might sound, sure, you would initially choose the person. But our feelings are something that transcends our logic. You could never force love.”

Yuta releases you from his embrace, now looking directly at you to meet your now red eyes.

“It’s always been Jaehyun, isn’t it?”

You’re unable to hold the pain of having to tell the truth, lips quivering. But Yuta does not deserve any lies, so you nod involuntarily.

“I’m sorry, Yuta…”

“Don’t be. Why should you apologize for falling in love?”

It makes you feel like you’re the worst. Why can’t you just fall in love with Yuta? He’s the kindest man, and he clearly cares about you a lot. He is very mature, and he – at least, doesn't have a complicated background.

But your heart just doesn’t beat as fast as it is with him when you’re with Jaehyun.

“Now wash your face,” He said, tugging your hair to the back of your ear. “Your eyes are swollen. I’ll reheat your meal. My mom always told me to finish my meal so you’re not leaving until you eat everything.”

You laugh, “I never knew someone would care about their ex this much.”

“Ex?” He snickers, “We were never official, to begin with.”

You pushed him playfully before you ran along to the bathroom.

You’re glad it was Yuta. How he’s always mature with his decisions. How he’s able to turn the awkward atmosphere into something that is anything but it.

The distance between where the bathroom is and where Yuta was was not far, but enough for you not to hear him whisper.

“And I will never apologize for falling for you, too.”

-

“He did what?”

Doyoung expresses what you experienced last week perfectly.

“No wonder you invited me out tonight. Thought it was quite odd for you not to be with Yuta.”

“What do you expect? Hanging out with two broken-hearted people?”

“As far as your story goes, I thought Yuta is the only one with a broken heart, ouch!” He squirmed as you pinch his arm.

“It’s equally as painful for me, too, Doy. I tried to fall for Yuta, you know.”

“It just doesn’t work out?” He asks.

You shook your head, “It’s weird, even when I think about it. Yuta cares a lot about me. He’s funny, he’s kind, and he’s honest. Why can’t I just fall for him, Doyoung? He wasted his time on me, while here I am still stuck with a person who I didn’t even contact for months.”

“How am I supposed to know? Guess you’re just dumb.” He flinches when you were about to slap him, pleading for your forgiveness. “It is as Yuta said, you can never force love. Yuta can be the ten times better version of Jaehyun but that wouldn’t matter if you already set your heart to Jaehyun.”

You replied with a sigh. He’s right. If you couldn’t understand your own heart, how could he?

Just as you were about to lit your cigarette, you saw a familiar figure entering the bar, pausing you.

“Johnny!” You stand up, greeting the familiar figure. He squinted his eyes to see who called him, and smiled instantly when he discovered you.

“[Y/N]! It’s been a while!” He crosses his hand over your waist, giving a friendly peck on your cheek as his greeting. “Oh, he’s not the guy at the party. Is this a new guy?”

Your palm landed on his upper arm. You might start with a professional relationship with Johnny, but he quickly became your friend. Although you didn’t talk as much after the project ended, you often had your cigarette breaks with him back then and talked about non-work-related stuff, so it’s not a surprise that you guys are chummy to each other.

“I don’t move on that quickly, Johnny. This is my best friend, Kim Doyoung. Doyoung, this is Johnny. He’s my client back in NCT Corp..”

“Ah, yes I’ve heard.” Doyoung greets him, “Hi, I’m Kim Doyoung. Nice to meet you.”

“Johnny Seo. A pleasure to meet you, Doyoung.”

“You’re alone, Johnny?”

“Nah, I’m meeting Taeil and Sicheng. But they’re still on their way, so actually, mind if I stayed for a bit?” He says, which you and Doyoung replied with a unanimous nod. He then scanned your expression. “Looking for a specific person?”

You rolled your eyes, “Stop teasing me, Johnny. I’m not.”

He chuckles, “Sorry, sorry.” He pulls his cigarette pack out of his pocket, “How’s Yuta?”

You were trying to flick your lighter, but you stopped at the sudden mention of the name. 

“He’s at home, I think.”

“You think?” Johnny furrows his brows at the statement, but decides not to pry further. “Can I borrow your lighter?”

“Sure,” You move closer as you lit up your lighter, which he quickly accepted to fire up the end of his cigarette.

“Thank you,” He draws out the grey smoke, “Anyway, is the perfume you’re using right now on trend?”

“My perfume?” You’re smelling yourself, becoming insecure with your scent.

“I swear I’ve smelt it before. I couldn’t remember, so I thought it’s on-trend. Maybe a few of my coworkers wore it before.”

“That’s so random, Johnny.” You finally light up your cigs, “You could’ve picked a better pick-up line. Also, it’s been a hot minute since I sprayed my perfume, so the scent shouldn’t linger anymore.”

He burst in laughter, amused. “Aside from the fact that I’m actually into perfumes, I wouldn’t dare to pick you up, [Y/N].”

You know what he meant but decided to change the topic. The three of you talk, with the conversation mostly filled with Johnny and Doyoung exchanging business cards.

“Oh!” Johnny suddenly shouted, catching both you and Doyoung off guard.

“The hell, John!” You protested.

“Sorry, sorry,” He chuckled. “I just remember where I smell your scent, [Y/N].”

“Okay, creeps. What are you, a dog?” Your remark causes the whole table to burst in laughter. “But go on.”

He rolled his eyes, “Sometimes I could smell that scent on Jaehyun.”

You stared at him, confused. Not only you are surprised that he actually remembers the scent, but even more so at the mention of your previous lover name, “Jaehyun?”

“Yup,” He lights up another cig, “It is a very distinct feminine scent, and usually Jaehyun would smell a lot like–”

“A jazz club?”

“There you go.” Smokes escaped from his mouth, “Though not always, he would sometimes smell very sweet. Which is odd, I thought Jaehyun is not a fan of such floral scent –hey, don’t give me that look.”

“No, now I really wonder whether I’m talking to a human or a german shepherd.” Doyoung is in awe of how specific Johnny’s descriptions are.

“Told you I’m a perfumer.” He self-proclaimed, “Yeah, but in particular it’s only during the weekends. Funny, isn’t it? The only time I didn’t meet Jae, I got to meet you and you guys shared the same scent! No wonder it feels very familiar.”

Then your eyes widen,

“Sure, I’ve been meaning to use your brand new body gel. The only time I can share the same scent with you is during weekends anyway.”

“Why? Scared of smelling like a female?”

“No, I don’t want others to know what you smell like. It’s exclusively mine.”

You suddenly stand up, scaring both of the men.

“I have to go.”

“Go?!” Doyoung felt betrayed. “Go where, you crazy woman? You didn’t even took a sip of your G&T!”

“Give it to Johnny. I’ll transfer the money.”

“It’s not about paying me back, but why the sudden rush?”

“I usually won’t order G&T but I’ll take the offer. Though, you’re not answering his question – where are you going?”

“I’ll text you the details. I have to go now!”

Doyoung rolled your eyes, “Ugh, fine. Promise me you wouldn’t do anything reckless.”

You linked your pinky to Doy’s, before grabbing your purse and leave the two men behind.

“I wonder why I could tolerate this secretive behavior. How is she and Jaehyun any different?”

Johnny nods in agreement, raising his glass for a toast, “Can’t argue with that, buddy.”

-

You’re standing on the familiar pavement. It was as cold as the first time you were here.

You looked up and dialed a number. It didn’t take more than three seconds before the person from the other side of the line picked it up.

“Hello?”

“[Y/N]? Why did you–”

You can hear that he is panting, then it struck to you that coming here unnoticed was probably a bad idea. 

“Did I bother you? I’m sorry I should’ve not called.”

“No, no, it’s fine.” He says, trying to catch his breath. “I just… Didn’t expect to receive a call from you.”

Then you immediately regretted that you left Doyoung to come here.

It’s not like you customized your shower gel.

What if it was someone’s else?

What if Jaehyun has already found someone new?

“Ah, I’m sorry I shouldn’t have called you this late. Please just forget–”

You were dozing off at the sidewalk, and a car nearby snaps you out of your daydream, honking at you. Of course, Jaehyun could listen both sound simultaneously – from the outside and from your call. 

“Wait, are you here?” He said, half doubtful.

“Oh, uhm, I thought I could make a visit because I have something to say. But you probably are busy and I came unnoticed. I’m sorry to have disturbed you, I shouldn’t–”

You can hear him on the other side rushing, and you didn’t have to wait long to see his figure standing on the balcony.

“[Y/N]?!” You can hear him loud and clear, even without pressing your ear to your phone. “What are you doing here late at night?! You could’ve just knock–”

“Now that I think about it, I should’ve told you in the first place that I was coming. Sorry, I’m not thinking it through. You’re probably not alone and I already disturbed your rest, I’ll get going.”

“I’m alone,” He stops you from going, “It’s damn cold outside, [Y/N]. I’ll pick you up,”

“Wait!” You stopped him from coming down, “Just... hear me out for a second.”

He returned to the previous position. Then you look at him, mustering all of your courage, “Jaehyun, I’m sorry.”

“Sorry? For wh-”

“Just let me talk first,” You took a deep breath, “I’m sorry for leaving you back then. I should’ve stayed when you’re at your lowest. But my body just moves on its own. I think… fear took the best of me.”

“All of a sudden, you revealed everything in one night. It’s unfair, you know? Imagine how I would feel at the night of revelation. There’s not enough time for me to process, Jae. And what if you did cover everything perfectly? I wouldn’t know anything about you.”

You can hear him sighing, “[Y/N], I told you I never meant to do that. Would you believe me if I told you it was for your safety?”

“I know you are. But it still a part of you, Jaehyun. Not just any part, it’s practically a large piece of you. And for me to not know anything about you... is just devastating.” You continue, “Then, Yuta came into the picture. He was kind, mature, and he cares a lot about me.”

“Don’t tell me you’re engaged?” You can hear him panicking, “Because if you do, this is a very cruel way to tell your ex, you know?”

You softly chuckled at his remarks, “But he could never be you, Jaehyun.” You then felt a stream fall from your eyes, “I could list down Yuta’s – no, even the next guy’s great traits but they could never replace you.”

“I know this might came off as selfish after I pushed you away, but after me and Yuta were over, I’ve been thinking about why I can’t seem to forget you. What makes you different, Jaehyun?”

You can hear him startled, holding his breath.

“And meeting Johnny just now makes me realize,”

You wiped your tears, looking down as you muster every inch of your strength to continue, “That even though you hid things for me, or even when your father is a psycho, it doesn’t change the fact that nobody treats me like you did. The way your touches make me feel safe. The way you look at me that always makes me feel special. Also, the fact that you remember the details, though sometimes it’s borderline creepy.”

Both of you softly laugh, “But... I think the reason why I fell in love with you, not because of your gorgeous smile that is always accompanied with by dimple, or your wealth, but simply because you never give up on me. Even when I did.”

You thought you could continue without hassle, but your tears tell you otherwise. You are practically sobbing on Jaehyun’s ear.

“When I first left, you never stop texting me even though I put it on read. You even asked Johnny to spare you some time during our meeting that day just to talk to me. You even changed your Saturdays just to visit Interlude, just for you to see me. It… teaches me how you really value a person. How to treasure someone that deeply.”

“I was ready to live my life in ordinary. But you know, what is life without a bit of risk? You’re the one that I’ve been looking for, Jaehyun. The only person that sparks so many joy in my life, the one that is always full of surprises. That is you, and only you, Jaehyun. The one that I inexplicably was drawn to. It doesn’t make sense, I know, but neither does love.”

“Wait,” He finally replies. “Stay there.”

You were startled, you called his name but only receive elevator bell sound before the call was abruptly ended.

Soon after, you saw his figure, rustling to wear his jacket to see you.

“Hi,” You put your phone back in your pocket, now awkward because you didn’t expect him to come down.

“What was that about?” He demanded an answer.

“Well…” You’re unsure how to answer, “I just thought I would tell you everything right now.”

You slowly look at him in the eyes, and you saw how he furrows his brows together.

“I’m sorry. It’s been months and you are probably seeing someone. Please don’t think too much about it, I just want to let it out of my chest.”

You were about to leave before Jaehyun held your hand.

“You’re no longer Yuta’s?”

You shook your head, “I never said I dated Yuta. We… were seeing each other, but we never officially date. Just last week I told him I can’t continue because–”

Jaehyun rushes to hug you, and you can feel that he’s trembling.

“Is this real?” He chokes up.

You finally let your tears break free, “I’m sorry Jaehyun, it took me long enough for me to realize my own feelings. Ever since the beginning, it will always be you. I love you, and–”

“You love me?”

You nod, then snuggle to him, “I love you more than I ever thought I would be.”

His reaction was a tad too quiet. You looked at up only to see his eyes glistening, welled up from his own tears.

“Jaehyun, please don’t cry.”

He releases you only to wipe his tears with the end of his sleeve, “Sorry, I promise you I’m not a crybaby.” He sniffed, “This just... came completely unexpected. You’re the only one who could make me weep like this. This feels like a dream come true.”

“This is real, love,” You return to his hug once more, “This time, I promise I’ll stay.”

Both of you took your time to feel each other’s warmth, longing for each other.

“I know, I failed big time after I left you. It pains me if I remember the face that you’ve made that day. It will always haunt me, the ups and the down during our times together.”

You then took a glance at him, smiling at him.

“But you know, what’s the first year if I’m going to spend seventy more years with you?”

He sigh in relief, hugging you even tighter. When you locked your gaze to each other, both of  couldn’t help but to laugh at your swollen faces.

He then caressed your cheeks, yearning to touch you all over. 

“Your hands are cold.” You said as you snuggle yourself to Jaehyun’s touch.

“Let’s go up,” He offers, holding out his hand to you.

“Can I?”

The signature dimple that you miss so much finally made its appearance, “I need to refill my share of cuddles, anyway.”

–

“[Y/N]...”

His kisses feel warm. It feels like it’s been so long, yet feels so familiar whenever he planted soft kisses on the back of your ear.

“Ah, Jaehyun!”

You whimper at the way he kisses you, treating you like you are a delicate porcelain doll. 

“I miss you,” He whispers close to your ears, causing you to flinch.

“Ah!”

He moves his tongue to your ears, nibbling every inch of you. He didn’t stop there, as he continues to tease you, flicking both of your nipples.

“Jaehyun, stop teasing me!”

“Not a chance, love.” He trails his lips to your jawline, “I’m gonna kiss every part of you. Do you know how much I endured after you left?”

Jaehyun’s lips finally meet yours, and you can feel how he forces his tongue, slithering inside and dancing with yours.

He moves one of his hands to your clit, rubbing them while his right hand still pinches your nipple. Jaehyun always makes you feel good, and this time is no expectation. He took his time, but accurately know your sweet spot it almost driving you insane.

“Look at you, baby love,” He breaks the kiss, now looking at you with his sharp eyes, “You told me to stop, but can you hear how wet you are?” As he continuously slides his fingers up and down at your clit, resounding your wetness.

He moves down, spreading your legs.

“Jaehyun, not– ah!”

You quickly grab his hair, surprised with the sudden gush of pleasure. Jaehyun is not joking when he says he’s going to kiss every part of you, as he slowly takes his time licking your folds. You can feel his tongue exploring your part, making you drown in ecstasy.

“Baby if you lick it that much, I’m gonna–!”

That is when he broke free, “Not yet, sweetheart.” He licks his upper lips, tasting you, “We haven’t reached the best part yet, so be good and wait for a bit, yeah?”

He then proceeds to rip open the condom, expertly pushing it down to his thick shaft. It was rock hard, and the tip was deep pink in color, coated with his precum.

He wants you, and he wants you bad.

“Now come here,” He lifted you, making you sit on his lap.

He continued to kiss you, and each time your lips met, the kisses became messier. You guys were panting, at the increasing rate of your libidos. You thought he was going to spread you open, but much to your disappointment he only teases you further with his cock, grinding them to meet your clit. You want him, and you know he wants you too, so why did he hasn’t fill you up?

“Jaehyun...!” You purred to his ears, moaning even louder.

“What’s the problem, [Y/N]?” He slides his hand to hold your hips, a smirk appears on his face “You love this thing,”

He then sloppily rubs his growing member, only to make yourself even wetter.

“Just fuck me, Jae!” You pleaded, “I want you, I want you inside me.”

You opened your eyes to met his gaze that is saturated with lust.

That is when you know Jaehyun is in his dominant mode.

“Why don’t you try and stick it in yourself, angel?”

Jaehyun knows you don’t usually ride on him, or take the full charge because it’s still embarrassing for you to top him. But today he wanted to be in full control, that includes commanding you. The way he did it with you during your first time.

“You such a jerk,” You complained, but at the same time, you use your hand to carefully position his cock to enter you.

“Now,” Jaehyun gave you a victorious smile, “I know you can’t wait for it, so you better hurry up, princess.”

You’re never fond of those nicknames, but the way Jaehyun said it to you just gushes the hormones in you. You slowly slid down your pussy to meet his cock, and the moment his tip enters you, you swore you almost cum instantly.

You stopped because you were drowning in pleasure, embracing Jaehyun tighter. You didn’t realize that you unintentionally placed Jaehyun’s head in between your breast, only taunting the beast in him further.

“Huh?”

“I don’t know whether you’re playing innocent, or you purposely do this,” You can feel Jaehyun squeezing your ass, “But don’t go riling me up like that!”

Suddenly all of him enters you at once. You twitched at the sudden connection, moaning hard.

“Oh God, Jaehyun!” You rest your head to his right shoulder, arms crossing over his back for support, “If you stick it in all the way like that–!”

You cummed at the way he fills you up completely, without notice too. There’s no way to hide it because it’s positive that Jaehyun could feel how your walls twitch around him.

But you’re dealing with a very horny Jaehyun here. And your orgasm only provokes him even further.

“Cumming already, love?” He lets out a soft rumble, “We’re just started, yeah? I’m not playing nice today, so brace yourself.”

“W-wait, Jaehyun, I’m still very sensiti– ah!”

Obviously not in the mood to listen, it is as if he lost his control. He continuously thrust deep into you. Every time his cock slides in, you can feel his tip touches the deepest part of you.

“Jaehyun!” You stutter, “S-stop! I can’t–”

“Stop?” He continued to pound you, you can hear the sound of your skin slapping to each other, “But baby, fuck, you’re squeezing me,”

The moans become louder as Jaehyun picks up his pace. 

“You love my cock, do you? You practically suck them in.”

“Baby it feels so good!” Finally giving in to the pleasure, you begged Jaehyun. “Oh, God! Jaehyun you’re so hard, ah–!”

You dig your nail to his back, telling him that you are as turned on as him. Making him want to mess you up, hard.

“Jaehyun! W-wait!” You grab his hair, asking for mercy. “D-don’t!”

He kisses your breast, blooming a purple flower at one of them. You’re a wreck, not sure where to concentrate –the way he bites your nipple or the way he continuously pushes in and out. The way he slams into you while at the same time teasing your nipple causing you to feel that the knot inside is about to unravel.

“Jaehyun!” You shouted his name, “I’m cumming again!”

Jaehyun looked at you, satisfied, “Good, I’m almost there, too.”

Groans escaped from Jaehyun’s mouth, “Just so you know, I won’t be settled with just one round. I’m gonna fuck you till the sun comes out.”

He couldn’t care about his rhythm anymore. He thrusts faster, and when he swears and repeatedly call your name, you know he’s about to cum. He bit your shoulder and pushes inside of you a few more times before releasing what both of you have been building up. You couldn’t stop shuddering, while you can feel him stalling, taking his time to cum inside. Both of you took a short, frantic breath, desperate to fill your lungs with oxygen.

“That was so good,” You complimented him, still clinging to him.

“Hey, we just cummed, never thought you were this impatient, [Y/N].”

You look at him before both of you pinch his cheeks, filling the room with warm giggles.

“Why don’t you give up?”

He hummed, asking you to further elaborate your question.

“I mean, it’s been a while since the party... and yet you just easily let me enter your life again.”

He replied with a smile, “I’ve told you before and I’m going to tell you over and over again, you are my safe haven, love. I’ve spent my whole life trying to pretend to be someone that I’m not. But with you, I can just be myself. Also, we always had amazing sex, pretty good reason to not give up on you, right?”

You pinch his cheeks, to which he protested with multiple ouches. You look at each other again, before naturally pulling to each other hugs, not satisfied with only a short amount.

You can feel his heartbeat and his soft breaths right next to you as he tucks his face at the nook of your shoulder. You swore, you never felt this blissful.

You miss him, you miss him a lot. Your lips met his subconsciously, which he accepted gladly.

“Go clean up,” He separates his kiss, “Don’t frown, I’ll make love to you again. But right now all I want is to cuddle with you. I miss our cuddles.”

Though you pouted, you eventually agreed, marching yourself to the bathroom.

Just before the first droplet touches your skin, you took a glimpse at the stationary and instantly surprised. You ran back to the bedroom, only covering yourself with a towel inattentively. 

“You still have my shower gel?”

You’re not even surprised by the sight of him all naked as he was about to go to the kitchen to fetch some water. He wasn’t embarrassed, though (well it’s not like he have any reason to feel so when he maintains his shape very well), as he replies to your remark with his chuckles, pleasing your ears.

“I used them sparingly.”

“You like them that much? You even filled them with water, Jaehyun. You can just buy them at stores, you know?”

He shook his head, “But that one was yours. I only use them at the weekend anyway, like how I would use them if we were still together. I don’t know, it just feel like you’re still around when I can smell your scent.”

If it were other guys you would squirm at his cheesy remark. But it was from Jaehyun, a man that is so dear to you. Who always do this tiny things that managed to touch your heart, making you ran to him and give him a hug.

“No wonder you smell familiar,” You inhaled his scent, “You smell like me.”

He laughed, fixing your disheveled hair, “To be honest, I made this rule to myself that I would only move on from you once I emptied the whole bottle. I guess I cheated a bit, but fortunately you came just in time,” He kisses your forehead gently, “I guess the goddess of luck is on my side, huh?”

You couldn’t help but to slap his chest, annoyed on how effortlessly cute his action was.

“You have to bear with me smelling like you though tonight, I’d rather use a proper shower gel.”

“I don’t mind, it’s still you.”

He rolled his eyes up, thinking.

“Unless… Do you want to go to the store tomorrow? Let’s stock up your toiletries. Oh, your toothbrush is still here so you don’t need to buy those. Maybe we can go to your apartment afterward, so you can bring a few of your clothes back.”

You glared at him, “Did you just ask me to move in again?”

Jaehyun smiles, “Maybe? As long as you don’t give up like now.”

“I won’t,” You embraced him tighter, your laughter was filled with joy, “Why do you always ask me to move in with you after we fuck?”

“Because both of us are horny all the time?”

You gave him another slap, this time making him laugh harder that he even scrunches his nose.

-

“Stop staring!”

You are finally agitated at the way Jaehyun’s eyes are locked in your direction. At first it was bearable, but you’re sweating from organizing your wardrobe and you don’t exactly look at your finest.

“But I just can’t believe you’re back, love.” He walks to you and hugs you from behind.

“Jaehyun!” You protested, “I’m sweating! Please, I probably smell!”

“Doesn’t matter,” He drops his head at the crook of your neck, kissing you softly, “As long as you’re here. I can’t believe we’re finally going to live together for real this time. Don’t bother finding your suitcase, I hid it where you can’t find it.”

You slapped him playfully at the way he acted spoiled. Five months after your confession, the day where you move to his place is finally here. Jaehyun has been pushing you to start packing, claiming he sleeps better when you’re next to him. He even proposed to hire multiple movers so that you can move a week after that night. A new side of Jaehyun that you discover –you never know he was this clingy. 

“I miss you.” He said on the other end of the phone.

“Jaehyun, I stayed over last night. You're even going to pick me up tomorrow morning to accompany me to the bank.”

“But I want to sleep while hugging you.” He whines like a puppy, “Can’t you just stay here? Take some days off, I’ll cover the moving cost. Just stay with me?”

“I know you’re loaded, Jaehyun.” You laugh at how impatient he is, “But let’s just take this slowly, OK? I want to make it right this time, and if we can settle this with the most efficient –cost-wise, why bother rushing? I lived in this place for years, you know? It would be quite sentimental for me to suddenly leave it behind.”

You heard him sigh, “Why do I have to date a smart woman like you.”

“I thought that’s the reason why you fell for me?”

“Can’t argue with that.”

After you guys are back together, Jaehyun is showering you with so much love. Telling you corny things that borderline cringed you, calling you nicknames that you can only hear from dramas.

But you know it is because he can finally relax. There’s no need to hide things. There’s no more burden from his father. Jaehyun is finally free, able to show his true self for the first time. And you are grateful that you can witness it, and stand next to him this time.

For the past few weeks, your weekends’ agenda has always been you dealing with the move. Today was the day you return your key to the landlord, and from this day onwards you’re going to stay with a man that is dear to you.

“I won’t leave, Jaehyun.” You said, caressing the top of his head. “At least now I know you’re not dangerous anymore.”

You pushed him to meet his gaze, “Aren’t you?”

He scoffed, “Of course, love.”

You squint your eyes, and there’s a hint of doubt in the way you look at him, “Your father is one thing, but what about the secret agent stuff?”

“I wasn't a part of it to begin with.” He tucks your hair, “My deal with them is to let me be a part of my father’s mission, and that mission only. In exchange, their members can work at my company while being undercover.”

You knit your brows together, “Isn’t that nepotism?”

“Well, no, actually,” He laugh, dragging you to the kitchen so he could get some water, “Even though I will eventually accept them as my employees, they are required to have the skills needed for the position. It’s practically the same thing with personal connection. I guess you can say I’m like the shadow member? I’m not active on the field, but that’s the best deal that we could come up with.”

You hummed, taking the glass of water that he offered, “But I don’t want you to be involved in any danger, OK? Mark is finally able to visit you –or us, without him having to shit out of his pants. He really misses his brother, you know? So don’t be reckless. I don’t want to lose you anymore.”

“Yes ma’am.”

“Don’t call me ma’am, I’m not that old, Jae.”

“Then what? Princess? Baby love?” 

“You only call me that when you’re on top of me or when I’m on top of you.”

“Sounds like a good idea. Don’t you sweat already? It would be a waste of water if you’re going to shower twice, should we shower together to conserve water?” He raised one of his brows, attempting on seducing you.

“Fucking sex addict!” You swatted his arm, causing him to laugh at your reaction.

“Oh come on babe, can’t we?”

“Jaehyun I swear ever since we’re back together all we did was fucking each other.”

“Your fault for tempting me. Told you I can’t have enough of you.”

“Not now, babe. Keep your libido intact, we still need to clear out these boxes, it gives me anxiety.”

You tied your hair to a top bun, ready to clear up the empty boxes that surround the kitchen island. Jaehyun rested his elbow to the countertop, eyes are glued to you.

And only to you.

“Marry me, [Y/N].”

Your first reaction was to drop the boxes, dropping your jaw. Jaehyun rushed to you and offers a helping hand.

“What the heck, Jaehyun?!”

He chuckles at your reaction.

“It’s not funny, Jae. Don’t joke around like that.”

“But I’m not, love.” He looks at your direction, giving you a deep meaningful stare.

“At least let me make myself proper. I’m wearing a God’s-know-how-old band t-shirt, no makeup, all sweaty, and I was just about to clean up. You even asked me to fuck you just now. Ever Google how to propose to your girlfriend, Jae?”

Soft giggles escape his mouth, “Believe me, I’ve planned a much more spectacular proposal.” He fixed his posture, reaching for your hand.

“But the moment I think how I’m going to spend my days with you at this house, doing even the most mediocre thing, I just can’t help to feel that I’m seriously in love with this woman. The woman unlike the rest of the people I’ve met before. Maybe it’s the way you laugh, and the way you look at me telling me that you’re in love. You’re so beautiful, sometimes I feel like I’m squeezing my luck just to be able to be with you.”

“You are the only one where I can be the truest version of me. And you accepted it. You are the only one that I could ever dream to live the rest of my life with. This person in front of me, who I care so much about, is the only one I could imagine to be the mother of my children.”

You are clearly unprepared for this. You can feel your face burning, eyes welled up.

“I-” He chokes up, trying to hold his own tears, “I thought after you left me, I would never be capable of loving someone again. It was painful, and I swear it felt like a truck just hit you without them hitting their break.”

“And yet, it’s always you. If there’s any word that could explain a greater feeling than ‘I love you’, I would use it. As if time stopped after I met you, I just couldn’t stop thinking about you.”

He then asks you to stand up, only for him to get down on his knees.

“It’s you, my love, because no one else makes sense. All of my better days were the one I spent with you.”

He then took a small red box out of his pants pocket, opening it to reveal a delicate platinum ring. The band is covered with diamonds and the brilliant-cut diamond center stone was the scene stealer.

“Because even in another life, no matter how difficult it is, I probably would just love you as recklessly. My heart never beat faster the way it beats when I’m with you.”

You tried to fight the tears that kept coming, but they refused to stop, making you busy wiping your eyes instead of looking him in the eyes.

“Stay with me, because I promise there would be no harm for you as long as I’m breathing. Be my wife, [Y/N].”

At that moment you know you don’t want to waste the rest of your life trying to find the answer. No man could love you the way Jaehyun did, because he is the one who will love you all the way.

At that moment, you found life. At that moment, you found him.

“Only if you’re sure to have me.” Your voice was crackling, trying to keep down your tears that’s been messing you up.

“I might be unsure about other things but never you, [Y/N].”

You gently nod as you accept his ring, and Jaehyun never felt any joy greater than this. He hugs you tightly, swinging you inside his embrace.

“Thank you, [Y/N], I promise I’ll treasure you.”

You can feel him trembling, and feel the wetness that does not belong to you on your shoulder. You look up only to find your now-fiancé eyes are red. This sight is no longer a stranger to you. Ever since you date him again, Jaehyun has been showing so many emotions with you.

You gave him a soft kiss on his lips. He reciprocated the kiss, biting you softly. It was the type of kiss that does not rush. It was the type of kiss that was gentle. The type of kiss that was filled with love.

“I love you so much, Jaehyun.”

“As I do too, love. I cannot wait to spend another seventy years, no, even longer with you.”

Of course, you know where he got his reference from, so you couldn’t help but giggle.

“Only if you promise you don’t hide anything from me anymore.”

Jaehyun joined you by adding his part of laughter.

“I promise.” He said, giving you another deep, long kiss.

“Fuck you, Kevin,” You shout, shoving him aggressively to the side. 

Kevin throws his head back, laughing, “I didn’t know someone could suck so bad at Uno until I met you. Why would you reverse it knowing I only had one card left, after I just played a reverse?”

“I didn’t know you had a reverse! Who keeps a reverse as their last two cards,” You pout, throwing your cards down to cross your arms over your chest. 

Kevin begins to mindlessly shuffle, knowing there were only two minutes left of your last period of the day which did not give the two of you enough time for another round that you would undoubtedly lose. 

“I’m still coming over to study after school, right?” Kevin asks, thumbing through the cards. As if it was a consequence to his question, the bell rings signifying the end of the school day. 

You begin to pack your things which were mostly ready and you couldn’t help but be grateful that your last period was statistics, the biggest blow-off class you could’ve taken. “I think we’re the only weebs who would study for AP biology on a Friday night,” You scoff. 

“Yet somehow I know that we’ll study for thirty minutes before we give up, order take-out, and end up watching My Hero Academia until it’s too late for me to go back to my house.”

Your lips purse in response, knowing Kevin was right. Though you pretended like there was something more entertaining out there for you to do on a Friday night, nothing sounded more right than spending it with your best friend.

You and Kevin exit the school, making your way to your house. It was only a seven minute walk from the school, thus why study sessions and hang outs were frequently at your house. That and your mom was a doctor who often worked night shifts that started before you got home and after you and Kevin fell asleep. 

When you near your house, you reach into your pocket attempting to find the key before you hear a familiar voice. 

“Lemonade! Fresh lemonade!” 

You don’t believe it at first and although you had to squint to make out what was happening, Kevin quickly affirms what seemed to be in front of your eyes.

“Is Hyunjae selling lemonade? Also who’s that little girl next to him? I thought he didn’t have younger siblings?” Kevin turns to face you but you just shrug, not understanding the situation either. 

Everyone knew the basketball players usually scheduled early release, allowing them to leave school early so they had time to do homework before basketball games or- not- in most of their cases, however, you didn’t expect Hyunjae to be with an unknown little girl selling lemonade. 

“Let’s go buy some!” Kevin exclaims, grabbing onto your wrist and dragging you to arrive at the lemonade stand faster. 

You immediately begin to panic, this being the first real interaction you had with Hyunjae since you were a child. “Can’t, I’m allergic,” You quickly say, pulling back so your shoes scraped against the concrete. 

“No you’re not, you love lemonade! Now, grow some balls because I’m thirsty,” Kevin replies, standing behind the woman who was currently conversing with Hyunjae. 

“You know, you shouldn’t say grow some balls, what do balls do? Nothing. You should say grow a pussy, now those things can take a pounding,” You ramble on, your nerves speaking for you. Kevin simply brushes your comments off, however, knowing rambling was another habit you picked up whenever you got nervous. 

When the woman moves out of the way, Kevin immediately jumps into conversation with the little girl standing beside Hyunjae and you watch as the two interact. 

“Hyunjae oppa is helping me raise money to buy a dog! Right, oppa?” She turns to Hyunjae, pulling at his shirt so he would focus his attention on her. For the first time in years, you make eye contact with Hyunjae and even as the little girl tugs on his blue shirt, his gaze lingers on you until he’s quite literally torn away by the girl tugging harder. 

“Yah! Byeol, gentle!” He scolds, taking her hand in his and smoothing away the creases on his shirt with his other hand. 

“So the pretty little girl’s name is Byeol!” Kevin says, ignoring whatever was occurring and turning his attention back to the girl running the lemonade stand. 

‘If only Kevin wasn’t such a sucker for kids,’ You think. However, he was set on his future career since he was 12, a kindergarten teacher, meaning he was in love with practically every kid he came across. 

Byeol blushes in response, moving to hide herself behind Hyunjae. 

“I think she has a crush,” Hyunjae chuckles, patting her hair as she stands behind him in embarrassment. 

“Don’t tell him that! Boys are gross.” Byeol gags from behind Hyunjae and you can’t help but let out a laugh at the disgusted noises that she makes. 

“So she’s capable of more than just silence,” Hyunjae says, smiling at you. Having absolutely no control over your bodily functions, you begin to blush furiously at the mere attention of Hyunjae. 

Kevin seems to notice how uncomfortable you were, quickly changing the topic to understand just how Hyunjae was related to the lemonade stand. 

“Oh,” Hyunjae exclaims, beginning to answer Kevin’s question. Before he speaks, he moves Byeol next to him and covers her ears with his hands, making sure she couldn’t hear anything. “My mom knows her mom and she just volunteered me. I don’t mind though, Byeol is a sweetheart, isn’t that right Byeol?”

Hyunjae removes his hands from Byeol’s ears and ruffles her hair with his now free hands, causing Byeol to giggle. “You’re an angel, right?”

“I wouldn’t doubt it,” Kevin says, smiling. 

As Kevin and Hyunjae talk, speaking mainly of school, you take your time to take in Hyunjae. You hadn’t looked at him for more than a few seconds since he had entered high school, and it would be a lie to say he didn’t age like fine wine. 

He had broad shoulders, a gorgeous smile, and the nicest nose you had seen on any guy to date. He was currently sporting a light blue shirt with tan slacks, something you thought no one would be able to pull off but because it was Hyunjae, it looked good. On game days, the team always had to dress up, and you were never able to take in one of his dressed-up looks, at least not until today and you were definitely sure you were missing out. 

You hear footsteps coming from the sidewalk and you turn your head to the side, looking to see if someone else wanted lemonade, but it was just a lower classman who ignored the stand completely as he made his way to his house. 

“So, we have two flavors: sour and sweet. What are we feeling today?” Hyunjae asks, focusing back on the main reason the two of you were at the stand to begin with. 

Kevin hums as he ponders, gazing at the table. Along with lemonade, the table also had various candies for sale. 

“I think I’ll take one sweet lemonade because of the very sweet Byeol and one Skittles packet,” Kevin says, handing Hyunjae a dollar. You can clearly see Byeol’s cheeks redden as she pours Kevin a lemonade but neither of you say anything. 

“Wait, I just have a dollar,” Kevin pouts, turning to you. “Did you want something?”

You begin to decline until Hyunjae pulls his wallet out of his pocket and places a dollar in the jar. “One sweet and one sour please, Byeol.”

Hyunjae turns to you, a soft smile on his face. 

“Oh, you don’t have to-” You begin to resist, but Hyunjae quickly cuts you off. 

“Nonsense,” He shakes his head before taking the lemonade from Byeol’s hand and handing you one. “It’s only fifty cents.”

“Yeah, it’s really good too,” Kevin says, taking another sip out of his cup. 

Your hand lightly grazes his as he hands you the cup and you would be a fool to not notice the butterflies that erupted in your stomach at the contact. 

“Is this one sweet or sour?” You ask, curious as to which one Hyunjae assumed you would like. 

Hyunjae doesn’t respond and takes the other lemonade from Byeol before downing it. As soon as he sets the cup down, his nose scrunches up at the sharp taste that touches his taste buds. You quickly realize that the sweet lemonade remained in your hands. 

“Life’s been pretty sour without you, want to make it sweet?” Hyunjae says, laughing. He nods his head down to your cup and you can’t help but laugh as well, the cheesy dialogue not being something you expected from Hyunjae. 

“I think they like each other,” You hear Byeol loudly whisper to Kevin who was nowhere near close enough for her to whisper to. 

“I think so too,” Kevin replies.

The three of them watch as you make a decision on rekindling the friendship you once had with Hyunjae, realizing that maybe even after all these years, he was still the same Hyunjae who would intentionally step on a lego if you had stepped on one so you wouldn’t be alone. 

The laughter and the applause in the room are quickly replaced by whispers between each other. They are clearly baffled with the turn of the event, trying to solve the puzzle.

“What is the meaning of this?!” While he still talks in a somewhat calm manner, the way his eyes stutter tell Jaehyun that he is anything but calm.

The officers in uniform reached to where they are standing, each proceeds to hold the arms of Mr. Jeong’s and Kyungmi’s. As expected, at least one of them goes berserk.

“Don’t touch me!” Kyungmi swatted the officer’s hand, refused to be taken away, “Jaehyun, tell them who I am! They don’t have the right to do this!”

“Oh, but they do.” Jaehyun talks calmly. A side of him that you know –when he locked on his prey and he knows the percentage of his success is almost absolute.

“Jeong Jaehyun, you don’t want to do this.” His father warned him, and for the first time that night, he whispered instead of speaking proudly, possibly so that the mic wouldn’t catch his words. “Don’t mess around.”

He took a glance at his father and his so-called fiancée that he never acknowledges. He gave a nod to the officers, cueing them to proceed with the arrest.

Before any of them could make a scene, Jaehyun took the mic again, “Ladies and gentlemen, I’m terribly sorry for the commotion.” He didn’t even bother about the ruckus behind him, “I understand that today was supposed to be a celebration of our new launch, but I’d like to use this opportunity to address a few things, and why it is important to announce it right here, right now.”

His eyes are now directed to your table, where he mainly locks his gaze to yours, “Also, I’d like to apologize to the involved team, especially to Mr. Seo and also Ms. [Y/L/N] as the person in charge of this project. Really, I do regret that I need to steal the star of the show.”

The way he calls you flinches you. Not only does it causes the whole hall to look at your direction, but also it feels extremely strange for Jaehyun to address you that way. It’s foreign, so foreign.

“Objections!” Frustrated that his own flesh and blood did not obey him, you can tell that he starts to lose his composure, “Jaehyun, what are you doing?! You’re clearly not thinking straight. You exposing me means you exposing yourself.”

Jaehyun just stands there, giving his father a disdainful look.

Obviously you can hear a bit of their words from the microphone, but not enough for you to grasp the full picture as the stage was quite far. Everyone seems perplexed and share the same sentiment with you, except for Johnny.

“Johnny,” Noticing that it is very strange for him to be this calm, you called him in hope you could get an answer, “What is going on? Do you know anything?”

Smirk appears at one corner of his lips, “Just wait and see.”

“Mr. Jeong,” Jaehyun said, purposefully talking in front of the mic so that the whole hall could hear him loud and clear. There’s a hint of contempt in the way Jaehyun called his father. 

He no longer addresses him as his own.

“Before you could object to anything, I’d think it would only be fair for our valuable guests to know where I’m coming from.”

“Don’t you dare…!” He tried to threaten Jaehyun, but at the same time he was being careful not to taunt him too much. He didn’t want to lose his pride, even so, there was a trail of fear in his tone.

“Oh, I do, sir,” Jaehyun said, ice cold. “Taeil, would you please.”

“Guards!” His father tried to intercept, calling his own men.

However they never arrived. The imperious man finally lost his presence of mind, looking around, puzzled. On the other hand, the strikingly handsome person who is stationed at the FOH immediately granted Jaehyun’s command.

“So, your father, how is he?”

The screen at the stage displayed an audio-only footage. And even without the picture, it is no brainer to figure out who is the owner of the voice.

“You know, it’s the same old, Jaehyun.” The other counterpart owns a fairly high-pitched voice, and it was no other than Kyungmi’s. “Thank God your dad is well connected to Chief Jang! If not it will be over for us.”

“Chief Jang?” 

“Yes, him! Daddy was telling me he was involved in poker scam when all he did was to invite that stupid rich guy from Sri Lanka!”

“Ms. Hyun, if I were you I wouldn’t say such information in a public place like this.” That is when you realized the audio was mixed with rustles, including a few sounds of people’s laughter in the background.

“Oh, Jaehyun, you’re so square!” Kyungmi squealed, borderline annoying, “We’re going to be husband and wife soon anyway. Also, I know your father would take care of it if things go bad, so it’s toots fine!”

“So yeah, I was saying,” She totally dismissed Jaehyun’s warning, “Daddy’s worst habit is he never checks on his client’s background. Who would’ve thought he was a criminal, a mafia or some sort!”

“Well that’s a surprise,” The clinking sound of cutleries being put down –presumably fork and knife– leaks in the audio, “I mean, knowing our backgrounds, Ms. Hyun, I thought your father would take extra precautions.”

“I know right! But I think daddy felt safe because we’re about to get married. Nobody messes around with your father, Jaehyun, we all know that. In any case, the seven hundred million that daddy gets from him will also be split to your father’s bank account too.”

The whole audience gasps.

“Nonsense!” His father tries to escape the officer’s grip. “Jaehyun, I command you to stop! This is ridiculous!”

“Jaehyun! You recorded our conversation?!” Kyungmi also protests.

“What are you doing, son?!” His father used all of his strength to move closer to where Jaehyun is, suit all wrinkled from trying to escape the officers’ grip. “Don’t you realize the consequences we’ll have to deal with once all of these leaks out?!”

“Everyone!” She pleaded, “This is all fabricated! My father and I are people of honor! We, The Hyuns, would never do such things!”

“Fabricated?” Jaehyun stared at the two people who looked awry in front of him. 

That is when they know they just landed on the minefield.

Jaehyun scoffed, mockingly, “Initially don’t want to show this because the footage is not very pleasing. Believe me, if only the two of them would admit the truth, I wouldn’t.” He speaks to the audience, dismissing the protests behind.

“For the record,” He continues, “I would like to warn everyone that what I’m about to show you is containing graphic content and might be upsetting to watch. So if you are sensitive to the subject, I advise you to not look, but this is needed to unfold the truth.”

Jaehyun gives Taeil a nod, permitting him to play the infamous clip.

Suddenly the screen plays a motion image of a corridor. By the setup, you’re guessing the location was in the corridor of a luxury hotel. A penthouse, probably.

“Ready, Chicago?”

“Whenever you are, Winnie.”

The unfamiliar voice called for the unfamiliar name, but after spending so much time meeting with him, you know that the voice belongs the man who’s sitting next to you. You seem to be the only one who realized this, as you are the only one who shift your gaze to him who casually watching the footage while crossing his legs.

At the cue, they forcefully enter the room, at the sight of middle-aged men in the middle of intercourse, where a lone woman is unconscious. There are no subtitles available, but it is evidently clear that she was drugged. One of the men who was in the middle of recording the lovemaking panicked. He tried to escape but unfortunately for him the person who wore the camera got him. Johnny, on the other hand swiftly took care of the man who was raping the lady.

“Do we got them all?” Johnny checks.

“We do,” Another man appears on the frame. He was wearing a uniform so you couldn’t tell who it was.

“Good.” The cameraman applauds them for their swift and clean job. “Teddy, help Winnie tying them up. I got business to ask this guy.”

“Roger that, Casper,” The person with code name Teddy exclaims, before the camera pans to a disgusting figure of the rotten old man. Not only you were horrified with the fact that the footage wasn’t censored, but you were also shocked by the fact that you know there could be only one who possessed the low velvety voice like the cameraman’s – no other than Jeong Jaehyun himself.

“Chief Jang,” He approached the man in question, filming the man’s then-horny face. “Look what we got, a prestigious man gang-banged an immobilized woman. What would the society say?”

“Don’t!” The man asked for mercy. “Please, I’ll do anything! Don’t let people know!”

He whimpers, but Jaehyun shows no sign of backing off, “Anything?”

“Yes, yes! Anything! What do you want? Money? Gold? Oh, I can give you women, too!”

Johnny clearly was not satisfied with his answer. He almost lost his temper at the way this man looked down on women, he reactively choked the man out of anger.

“Easy,” Jaehyun commands, “Now listen you piece of shit,” Jaehyun squatted so he can be on the same eye-level as the man. He pulls his hair so he could get a clearer shot of his face, which in return gains a shrieking yelp from the man.

“Tell me, where did you get all of these accesses?”

The man writhed in pain but refused to speak a single word.

“Chicago,”

Johnny slammed the man’s head to the end of the bed, causing him to scream in pain, and blood started to ooze from his head. The audience screamed at the sudden violence. Some even took a napkin and rushed to the nearby toilet, feeling nauseated.

“Talk,” He pulls the man’s head once more, revealing his ugly sobs that are mixed with blood. “You don’t want to mess around with our friend here,” He gestured to Johnny, “He’s a man of brute strength.”

“I’ll talk! I’ll talk!” It’s almost disgusting how he easily gives in. “It’s Wonshik Hyun! He told me if I could let him out of his gambling cases, he would exchange it with these!”

“Wonshik Hyun?”

“The founder of Hyun Ventures!” He choked, almost out of breath due to the pain. However when he looked at Jaehyun’s glare, he was instantly intimidated, “He is addicted to gambling, and it is thanks to his partner, the founder of NCT Corporation he’s able to walk away!”

“You’re from fucking law enforcement, Chief Jang.” Jaehyun scowled, sickened by the way he acted, “At the highest ranking for fuck’s sake, yet here you are.”

“I’m sorry!” He cries, “I was about to investigate it but I just can’t stop.”

Jaehyun clicked his tongue in disbelief.

“Please let me go! Don’t tell anyone about this! I have a family back home.” He sobs, asking for their pity.

“My son, yes, my son!” His pathetic face quickly turned bright, as if he just found a way out. “He’s about to enter college! My child, he aims to enter law school this year, surely you don’t want to ruin his future?!”

A fist landed on his cheek, snapping his nose into a grotesquerie. He didn’t stop with just a punch, not until Johnny held him back.

“Enough, Casper. He won’t be able to speak.”

“Fucking bastard.” Barely holding his anger, you never know Jaehyun is capable of releasing such wrath. “We are the one who’s gonna ruin his future? Look at yourself you filthy fuck–”

The video stops, and the crowd quickly starts to murmur. They closed their mouths at the sudden revelation, and it’s obvious that they’re giving displeased looks to Jaehyun’s father.

“How…”

Cat got his tongue. He can’t say anything when the evidence is crystal clear.

“Sir,” Jaehyun answers confidently, “You, introducing me to Ms. Hyun is exactly the key that I needed to unfold the truth. That part I have to thank you.”

“Jaehyun, you used me?! How could you, I’m your fiancée!”

The crowds let out a loud gasp before Jaehyun calmly handles the situation, “Fiancée? Did I ever say yes to the engagement? You’re the one who’s acting on your own. Our meetings are always arranged by my father, telling me I should get close to you. But I’m glad I can turn our dinners to gain the information I needed, Ms. Hyun”

His statements made Kyungmi lost all the strength on his legs. She couldn’t accept if this is her fate so she continues to freak out, “How dare you, Jaehyun! I loved you, and I thought what we share was real!”

If a gaze could cut, Kyungmi would be in pieces right now. Jaehyun’s stare was sharp, and cold, causing her to flinch. “How could I love you when I don’t even have your number, Ms. Hyun? I know nothing of you, except the fact that you own a loose mouth.”

You can start to listen to the people behind you talking to each other.

“She’s his fiancée?”

“What kind of fiancée that doesn’t have each other’s number? What a crazy woman!”

“She’s just delusional, Jeong Jaehyun probably just talked to her once and she thinks he’s her!”

“Ms. Hyun,” Jaehyun continues to speak, this time looking directly at her, still standing near the mic. “I’d like to thank you for giving me the most crucial information regarding…” He hesitates but decides to proceed. “This father of mine. But I’d like to tell you and,” He looks forward to the guests. “To everyone who attends.”

“There’s only one woman in my life that was able to change my heartless soul. She’s the one that I will always treasure. I never know my heart is capable of beating the way it beats when she’s around me. Her views, her visions. She’s different from any other woman I knew. She’s a fighter, a firecracker, in fact. And that is why I love her. She’s the one who introduces me that there is always hope.”

“Because of this,” He looked back at the two people, scornfully, “I was unable to keep her. But like a ray of sunshine after rain, I hope tomorrow, or the day after, or even after it passes seventy years.” He took a quick glance at you, before directing it back upfront. “I hope it could bring her.”

You bring both of your hands in front of your hand, not expecting his sudden confession. You swore you’re not a crybaby, but the last few minutes are probably the most information you have to take in a short period of time and it’s understandable that you’re unable to keep your emotion in check.

Your heart is about to jump out of your chest, heart racing from his words. Tears welled up, but you’re not a fighter –like what Jaehyun mentioned, if you didn’t try to fight your own tears.

“Fool!” Finally snaps, his father uses every bit of his strength to escape from the hands that are holding him. “You just expose our family, Jaehyun! Do you think you can escape this?! Or your filthy ungrateful brother?!” He said, grabbing his son’s suit. Jaehyun, who’s clearly on the upper hand in term of strength, easily broke free from his grip.

“Don’t act like we’re your own,” Jaehyun grunts, “I’ve not used a single penny you gave to me. You can check my bank account where you always transfer my money. The amount is exactly whatever you gave to me in years.”

His face slowly lost its vibrance, “And don’t act as you care about Mark,” Jaehyun looks at Mark’s direction, nodding at him to make him feel secured. “I did this for our family, when you failed to do so. I bet all of my net worth that you don’t even know that Mark has been working part-time for his own spendings. Also, from this day onwards all of his necessities will go through me as I will be his guardian.”

Mark’s jaw drops, he could not believe the turn of the events –of his rotten father finally meeting his doom.

You thought by now his father would turn himself, but you were wrong. Instead, he started to laugh hysterically.

“Heh, do you think it will be easy, boy?” His father snickers, as if he lost his sanity. “Wait until I talk to my lawyer. Do you think my men would stop? You just took one person, son. That is barely enough to take me down.”

“Oh?” Jaehyun raised one brow upwards, “Three months ago when you first introduced Ms. Hyun at Seo’s office, we’re already more than halfway in on our operation.”

“Not only I was involved, but I am connected to your people too. I hope you haven’t turned insane to not remember that you do planned on making me the next heir.” He said, unfazed.

“Most of your powerful men are now waiting for their trials. You’ll be the next in line. You’ll have the right to consult with a lawyer prior to any further questioning at your own expense. Though, your personal lawyer, Mr. Yang would not be able to attend due to the fact he receives money from illegal transactions.”

“You son of a bitch!” Jaehyun’s father finally lost it, about to throw his fist to Jaehyun. Him, being well-trained in combat, is able to tackle it easily, twisting his father’s arm.

“Bitch? Who are you referring to, my deceased mother?” He looked low at his father, who’s writhing in pain. “Let’s finish this in the court. Though, I’m positive you’ll end behind the bars for the rest of your life. Then, go and think twice before you call my mother that way.”

He pushed his father away and the officers quickly grab him. With Jaehyun’s commands, they finally take both Mr. Jeong and Kyungmi away.

“Sorry for the scene,” He runs his hand through his hair, fixing it before he greets the audience, “There will be another separate session for the press release regarding this. So for tonight, do enjoy the food and the champagnes. I was told the canapés are marvelous.”

He then goes down the stage, to where Mark is. Mark practically runs to his older brother, asking for a further explanation about the whole situation. Same goes with the rest of the people. As expected, the crowds start to swarm around both of them.

“I guess nobody is interested in the canapés, huh?” Johnny said, finally turning his body to where the rest of you are.

“Duh. But before that,” You lean forward so you’re closer to Johnny, “You are a fucking secret agent? What the heck is going on! How could I not know?!”

“Language, [Y/N]. And if you do know then I’m doing a lame job as a secret agent, no?” He chuckles, rightfully earned your tiny punches.

“I thought you invited me for your project launching party, [Y/N].” Yuta finally spoke, after every single one of you on your table was silenced due to the drama that happened on the stage. “You never told me that… we’re going to watch a soap opera.”

“Believe me, Yuta,” You rolled your eyes, “How could I know?”

You guys were busy discussing what just happened, and then suddenly you sensed that flocks of people were coming to your direction.

You turned your head to find the fine man in white suit was the one who brought the crowd to you.

“[Y/N],” He says softly.

“Jaehyun,” You reactively rose from your seat, but quickly hesitated. Jaehyun did declare his love to you. Sure, he never mentioned your name but that doesn’t change the fact that the first woman he approached was you –and you know how much people quickly jump into the conclusion. The last thing you want is to gain people’s attention by being together with him.

“Johnny,” As if he could read your mind, he quickly glanced at Johnny’s direction, which Johnny replied with a single nod.

“Alright, everyone,” Johnny stands up, fixing his suit. “Donghyuck, let’s guide them to the VIP room.”

Without any further explanation, Donghyuck escorts both you and Yuta to the designated room. The journey there was tedious, you couldn’t imagine how Jaehyun could even walk to you with the crowd constantly barging him with questions. 

“Mr. Jeong! What makes you do this?”

“Is it out of revenge, Jaehyun?”

“Our transaction with NCT Corporation is legal, right?”

The crowd was more persistent than what Jaehyun thought. They keep pushing, demanding for an answer while Jaehyun kept his mouth shut. As the result, they squeezed you. Of course, Jaehyun would stay by your side in a heartbeat if he could, but there’s a line that he couldn’t cross –Yuta trying his best to protect you next by your side. But there’s so much that Yuta can do, fighting the rest of the hall by himself.

“Sicheng,”

Jaehyun uses his eyes to point in your direction, and a person named Sicheng who was stationed nearby quickly guards you. It becomes more bearable, since he granted you with enough space to walk, especially when you’re wearing an evening gown.

When they almost reach the end of the hall, more bodyguards are stationed, letting you and the rest of the group in while they hold the crowd who are still curious.

“Alright,” Johnny closes the door, now that everybody is inside the room. “So, how should we start, Jae?”

Now all eyes are on Jaehyun, including yours. But Jaehyun only fixes his gaze to yours.

He was drained. He might win this, but that was after he pulls every of his ace cards. All he wanted was to hold you, and for you to pat him on his head and thank him for his effort. 

But he can’t, not when Yuta is crossing his arms in front of his chest, waiting for an explanation. Yuta might not be directly involved, but now that he knows, he won’t accept a cliffhanger.

“Uhm, so where should I start…”

In contrast to his excellent stage presence, he is now stuttering, clearly awkward after engaging in eye contact with you. You are equally as nervous, fidgeting on your own fingers.

Yuta seems to notice the tension, breaking the awkward atmosphere, “I think you guys should talk.”

Everyone is in shock with his statement. Clearly giving him a ‘you just let your lover talk with her ex, though?’ kind of look. Yuta, on the other hand, finds his action to be very logical.

“I think you owe [Y/N] plenty of explanation, man. Probably something that’s only between you guys.”

You give him a look, asking him once more whether he’s sure with his decision. He gives you a gentle nod. “Just make sure you’re back for me.”

As much as Jaehyun is thankful to Yuta for giving his permission to talk to you, it doesn’t change the fact that his last sentence stings. The fact that Jaehyun is no longer the owner of your heart makes his heart feels heavy. 

Eventually you and Jaehyun agree to his suggestion, making your way to the room next door.

“I, uhm,” He scratched his head.

“Since when, Jae?” You asked first, giving him the hint where he should start.

“Well, let’s sit down first.”

He then proceeds by telling you that it started after he met Johnny again. They were teammates back in high school but turned out the friendship actually didn’t start there. Johnny entered NCT Corp. due to the fact he was the agent that was stationed there, for a mission that was obvious; arresting the head of Jeong.

He approaches Jaehyun, but Jaehyun outsmarts him to figure out his identity. Johnny thought he failed his mission, with his target’s son finding out who he was, but what a twist of an event it was for Jaehyun to actually offer his hand to help.

“So you were living this life even when we were together?”

“[Y/N]...” He gently speaks, as if he was afraid to break a heart that is so dear to him, “It was never my intention to put you in danger. It was a miscalculation on my side to fall for you that night.”

“Miscalculation?” You emphasized his choice of word, ready to snap at him.

“The best mistake I’ve ever made.”

Your cheeks start to turn pink at his remark, makes you forcefully break the eye contact.

“Uhm,” You awkwardly converse back to him, “No wonder you always came home late. You were rarely at home before midnight.”

“Aren’t you pushing yourself?”

You were about to tug one of his wild strands of hair, before you back off and remembered that he’s no longer yours.

He lets out a disappointed smile.

“I met you and I was already in the middle of my mission.”

“Yet you’re still asking me out?”

“I wish I could blame it on the alcohol that night, but I know they just unleashed my deepest desire. I couldn’t forget you ever since that night where we met at the bar. Ever since we made the first eye contact.”

“But you’re keeping secrets from me, Jaehyun. And not just any secret, you being a COO is already a big step that I have to take. Then suddenly you are the next heir of an underground business, and the next thing I know you’re also a secret agent! I was living a pretty normal life, Jaehyun, then you suddenly came into the picture. How do you expect a person like me, dating a powerful man like you?”

“It’s just the consequences that I have to take eventually.”

“You could’ve just told me properly, you know, as a warning.”

His voice was saturated with regret, “I know it’s wrong, but I swear I would never purposely put you in danger. The reason why I didn’t tell you all of these was because the egoistic part of me didn’t want you to leave me out of fear. I was overly confident that I could overtake my father in no time. I thought I could keep it hidden and live my life peacefully with you, but I didn’t expect him to... meet you.”

Part of you felt guilty at the way he mentioned how you would leave when you discover the truth. On how accurate his predictions were.

“It’s just…”  He sighs, “I was this close, [Y/N]. Of course, Hyun Kyungmi was an opening I never knew would come, but even so I was confident I could arrest him on my own. And I have to do this. For Mark, and for my future, our future.”

The sentence ended with a pregnant pause, both of you unsure how the conversation should continue.

Was it always this awkward with Jaehyun?

“So…” He finally breaks the silence, “Yuta, I think he’s a great guy.”

Your eyes quiver at the way Jaehyun speaks Yuta’s name. 

“He is, Jaehyun.” You carefully replied, “Though his jokes are borderline rude, it’s just his way to show his affection.”

Jaehyun dryly laughs, “He’s different from me, doesn’t he?”

His words stop you from going, prolonging the pause.

“But I’m glad he’s able to make you laugh like that.”

You saw how his gaze turns soft. It’s been forever since Jaehyun got a chance to look at you, and only you. It’s been a while he could have all of you for himself, for you guys talk in private like this.

He was intoxicated, in you. And he let you slipped away. He finally reached his goal, but he didn’t receive his prize.

“I miss you, [Y/N].”

You pressed your lips together. Air of melancholy filled the way you look at him.

“Jaehyun, I-”

“I know, I know. Just… let me get this out of my chest.”

He took a deep breath in, “Please let me this one go,”

He hugs you, and it feels like years since the last time you’ve felt Jaehyun’s warmth. 

There was a momentary pause before you could react.

Is this okay?

Is this fair, for you, Jaehyun, most importantly, for Yuta?

But how could something that feels so right be so wrong?

So you hug his broad shoulder back, pulling him closer to you. Indulging his embrace that’s been missing from you.

“You know, I always thought by hiding it from you means I can have my own haven. Living a triple life is can be quite chaotic.”

You laughed, “I could imagine.”

He scoffed warmly, “I have to wear three different masks in each settings, and there are times where I feel like I could break into pieces.”

“But then I met you,” He carefully caressed your hair, making sure he didn’t ruin your hairstyle for the night. “Every time I woke up next to you, I just knew what I’ve been missing in my life. How our mind connected, the sound of your laughter, and the way you teach me how to love, and the way you loved me back.”

Jaehyun always feels perfect, but he is a human too. You can feel he’s trembling, fighting the waves of emotion, “For once, I could be just myself when I’m with you. Not COO Jaehyun, or the next heir for some underground business, nor a secret agent. I can just be just Jaehyun, and it was liberating.”

His words hit you hard. You never knew how much weight he has on his shoulder, and how he hold everything on his own. You never knew that Jaehyun leaned on you that much.

It’s not fair for him to tell him all of this now. Not when you thought you can live your life without him.

“The next morning after you left, I thought I just had a nightmare.” He continues, “That night was probably the longest night I ever experienced. I fell asleep, drunk. When I woke up and I couldn’t find you next to me, I thought you were in the kitchen. You always said you wanted to make me breakfast.

Jaehyun took another breath in, “Yet the only sight I saw was the mess from the night before and everything finally became a reality for me.”

He lets you go, to see that you’re about to cry. He forcefully smiles, trying his best not to show the already apparent sadness.

“Don’t cry. You’re kind, that’s why you pitied me.”

No, that’s not it, Jaehyun.

You wonder why it is so hard for you to tell him so, but words just won’t come out.

“I realized that I meet someone and we sometimes drift apart. Sometimes it seems to be too much and too vague, so I get anxious over it. Even so, the world moves on, and so are you.”

Are you?

“I’m happy that Yuta’s able to make you smile. Something that I took away from you that night. I’m sorry for hiding things from you, but please know everything that we shared, our relationship, is real. Probably the most genuine feelings that I ever felt.”

You took one of your fingers to wipe the corners of your eyes, preventing the tears to ruin your makeup.

“Jaehyun, please don’t be so hard on yourself. Now that I know every reason behind it, it would be stupid of me not to forgive you.”

He nods, and there goes another silence.

Are you OK leaving things this way? How could you figure out your heart when your mind is filled with numerous tangled threads?

Suddenly the room next to you became so loud, surprising both you and Jaehyun. 

“Looks like he’s here,” Jaehyun stares at the wall, seeming to know the reason behind the fuss.

“Let’s go?” He offers his hand, shocked with his own action.

“Sorry,” He quickly shoved his hand to his pants pocket. “Old habits die hard.”

Oh, Jaehyun.

That, you too know very well.

Both of you walked to the first room to see Taeyong who’s busy crying while Mark continuously patted him, telling him to stop.

“There’s no way I could not cry, dumbass!” Taeyong pouts, receiving tissue from Johnny, “You’re finally free, Mark.”

A/N: Can you believe next week we’re going to have our last chapter? :o

You say that I'm selfish,

Get it all off your chest

If we're being honest,

Without you I'm a mess, oh

Cause when I'm at my lowest, oh I run too

Don't matter the problem it's always you

Give me no reason to question you

Give me no reason to question you

“Who’s that?”

He broke the song on the stereo, no longer able to contain his curiosity. 

“Someone, Yuta.” You brushed him off, not in the mood for feeding his interest.

“I bet he’s not just someone.” He said, sarcastically.

You rolled your eyes, “When is your birthday?”

“Hm?” He only took a quick glance at you, since he was focusing on the steering wheel. “October 26th. What about it?”

“Ah, a scorpio.”

“Is there anything wrong with me being a scorpio?”

“No, but you’re fearlessly curious. Sounds very scorpio to me.”

Yuta lets out a chuckle, “OK, you seem to know a lot about scorpios. Your boyfriend is a scorpio?”

“Aquarius.”

“So he is your boyfriend?”

You couldn’t believe how you just automatically answered him.

“He’s not. I mean, he was, but not anymore.”

He reached the traffic light, finally looking at your direction, “I’m sorry. Didn’t mean to touch the sensitive subject.”

“Well you keep asking about him, no wonder I let it slip, jerk.”

He laughs again, so free and pure. His smile is brilliant, completely washed away the cold demeanor that he has. 

“You’re funny, [Y/N].”

His compliment makes you scoffed dryly.

“Want to go out with me?”

Whether his words are true or not, it definitely succeeded in shocking you.

“Excuse me?” You asked him to repeat his question, making sure you didn’t hear him wrongly.

“Go out with me, [Y/N].” He said as he changed the gear, being so casual about it.

“Other than the fact I know that you’re Doyoung’s partner –not sure whether you guys are considered friends or not, and the fact that you are a Japanese, we literally only met once over a brunch and this is our first time going out together.”

“We can find out about each other later. If you want me to re-introduce myself, hi, I’m Nakamoto Yuta. You just found out that I’m a scorpio and you better remember my birthday. Osaka’s pride. Takoyaki’s my favorite food, what else…”

You laugh at how absurd he lets the conversation flow, “You don’t need to shove that much information at once, you know.”

Yuta beaming at the sound of your laughter, “Laughing suits you better. So, can I take it as you agree on slowly knowing each other better?”

At the rebound of the topic, you entwined your fingers together, “Why are you so eager about this? I bet you don’t even like me.”

“Says who? You’re pretty attractive to me.”

Your cheeks rose red at his directness. Fortunately Yuta’s eyes were fixed on the road, else he would tease you about it.

“Yuta, I’m flattered you think of me that highly, but I just broke up with him like a week ago. I don’t think I’m ready for another relationship.”

You were hoping you didn’t make the atmosphere awkward. It didn’t, as Yuta’s smile is still apparent on his face.

“We don’t have to officially date, you know? I’d like to get to know you personally, you seem like a great girl. You have a charming personality.”

You stayed quiet. It’s not like you don’t like Yuta. As the reality of the matter, you share the same feelings towards him. His directness is like a fresh air, filling your lungs and clearing your mind. However it’s quick to judge whether you’re ready to jump to another relationship.

“Just be with me,” He continues, holding your hand now, and thankfully Doyoung’s car is a matic car, if not you’d be screaming at the way he recklessly drives, sort of. “We’ll figure out the details later.”

Before you know it, you’ve reached Doyoung’s apartment parking lot. He parked the car, yet Yuta leaves the engine going because he’s still waiting for your answer.

“Yuta, really, I’m delighted that you see me… that way. But I don’t think I’m ready.”

The answer is already set way before Yuta gave you any time to think. In all honesty, after his sudden confession, all you can think about is the face of your previous lover. You could imagine Jaehyun’s face if he figured this out. How his heart would shatter when he knows you moved on so quickly from him. How awful it would be for him after he declared his profound love towards you.

Yuta sighs in disappointment, conscious of the catastrophe which you have brought upon him. He thought he would have a glimmer of chance. After all, he might not be Jeong Jaehyun, but Yuta is not losing in terms of look. His features are so easy on the eyes, more so when his radiant smile decorates his expressions.

“But,” You resume, seeing him frowning. “Let’s be friends. I know this is me stereotyping you and please don’t be offended, but I'm a fan of Ghibli and maybe we can start there?”

In a blink of an eye, you can hear the sound of his laughter, “No offense taken.”

–

The cloudy sky greets you once you open your eyes.

Yesterday was probably the busiest you've ever been. After three months since the unfortunate event, your project with NCT Corp. almost comes to an end. All it has left is the launching event that will only happen on the following week. You returned home very late last night and only up when the clock almost hit noon.

Even though you’ve been going back and forth to their office, you consistently avoiding Jaehyun with all your might. He sends you texts, only for you to leave them on read. His display picture would appear first whenever you upload something on your socials, and you tried your best not to do the same.

You’ve lost in touch with Jaehyun.

The situation is in contrast with Yuta. You’ve been talking to Yuta a lot, to discover that he does read manga, but wasn’t a fan like you. He turned out to be as sweet as what you expected, because he would actually watch anime with you. What makes it even more charming of him is that he even bothers to tell you the Japanese trivias along the way.

It’s funny. Yuta has been very gentle to you, yet you still need time to recover from your old flame.

Despite his strong appearance, you thought he would lose his patience but he doesn’t. Yuta never forced you to like him back, or asked you the ‘hey-are-you-ready-to-date’ question again. And you’re grateful for that.

Maybe time is all you need to heal. Maybe you’re like one of the arrow in a clock, and you’re slowly ticking your way to meet Yuta’s.

It was not your usual Saturday afternoon. By now, Yuta would relaxedly lounging at your couch, crossing his arm over your shoulder while you lean your head to his shoulder. He would probably browse any available movie to watch, before it bugs you and you would end up deciding the final verdict.

Other Saturdays Doyoung would come and pay his visit. He checks on you regularly after what happened. He may seem indifferent, but that is just Doyoung’s way to show his affection. After you moved back to your place, he would come to pick you up, just to make sure you’re in one piece.

On this irregular Saturday, both of them are in Osaka. They were a business partner before they became friends (partially because Yuta’s glued to you, inevitably making their interaction go beyond partnership). Today is the day where they have to make a business trip to Japan, leaving you all alone this weekend.

You stared blankly at the window, still nuzzling yourself to the cozy duvet. It’s been awhile since you’re completely by yourself, and it’s probably the therapy you need.

It would probably be best if you don’t waste anymore time, so you force your step to the bathroom for a quick shower. Prep yourself afterwards before marching outside.

As odd as it might seem, you actually savor the cloudy weather. You take it as a constant reminder that life is not all sunshine and everything nice. You love the trickling sound of the raindrops. And the best part is when the rain finally over, you get to see rays of sunshine peeks through, as if the weather tells you that even at the darkest hours, there would always be light. That there would always be hope.

Whenever it almost rains, you would often make your way to the small coffee shop near your place. You reach the front door, where the word Interlude is written on the store’s sign. Though small, they feel like home. The store is unlike other popular cafes, in fact their customers are probably only the loyal ones. However it only means that you could spend your time looking at the window while admiring the rain passes without having people talking in the background.

It’s been awhile since you last visited. You don’t even share this place to your best friends. It’s a silly rule you apply to yourself, keeping this place as your personal oasis. It’s thrilling, and you feel secured to have a safe place where you can run to which nobody knows its whereabouts. 

So it’s shocking to see Jaehyun sitting down at your usual spot, turning his head to your direction after hearing the bells at the door rang at your presence. Making eye contact with you.

“[Y/N]...”

Desperation filled his voice. His cheekbones look more apparent now, and you’re guessing due to him neglecting his diet. But you’re glad at least his eyes weren’t as hollow as the last time you’ve met him.

“Jaehyun… What are you doing here?”

“I’ve been coming here every week.” He said while scratching his head.

You furrow your brows, “Every week?”

“I… remember when you said you have this one coffee shop that you always visit whenever it's about to rain.”

You tilted your head, thoughts wandering through your memory.

“It was when I stayed over at your place. It was raining cats and dogs, so we cancelled our plan to try the new bubble tea place. We spent our days at your bed, with your laptop and you were playing The Notebook.”

And that was a long time ago.

“You told me that the view from the furthest window at this place is the prettiest when it rains. You said the rain would gently hit the rocks, making the most soothing sound. I could remember your eyes were practically shining when you told me that it is very satisfying to see the shadows that the sun made, saying that it looks like a painting.”

How you wished your feelings are numb, because all you can feel right now is the heartache that creeps and consumes your heart whole.

“I asked you to bring me here, but you told me since it was already raining, I wouldn’t get to enjoy the whole experience. You promised that you would bring me here next time.”

He grazed his gaze to you, “I guess… You kinda did now?”

You bit your lower lip, feeling extremely guilty, “So you’re telling me... you’ve been coming here every single week?”

He nods at your repeated question.

“But… it’s been a while since I last visited…”

“I know. This is my new Saturday ritual, I guess. Whether it’s sunny or rainy outside, I would still come, in hope that you’d appear from that door.”

He lets out a soft sigh, “To be honest, I’m not fond of this weather. It gets dark silently as it seems about to rain. Still, you like this deafening weather. After coming here for weeks, I encounter days where it actually rains. That is when I grew to like rainy days. It looks beautiful from here, like what you said.”

You could only taste the bitter sorrow at the tip of your tongue. The sadness travelled through the stifling air. Memories start to flood in your head. The days you’ve spent with him. His gentle touch. His smile that is always followed by his pair of dimples. But it was probably his voice that you miss the most. The richness of his low rumble that always wraps you warmly. The gentle voice that feels like a melody to you.

The thoughts make you want to return to his arms. How you wish you could brush the disheveled bangs that covers his eyes, so you can have a clearer view of it. How you long to caress his face, intoxicated from his signature musky scent that is mixed with nicotine that is now that he’s only a few inches apart from you.

Yuta.

The thought of the Japanese man refrains you from doing so.

“How are you?” He asks, breaking the silence.

“I-I” You stutter, don’t know how to react, head hung low. “I’m doing fine, I guess.”

You return your gaze to him, “What about you, Jaehyun?”

He lets out a smile that is dyed with woe, “I’m coping, [Y/N].”

Jaehyun can’t seem to divert his gaze other than to your eyes.

“God, how I longed for you to call my name again,” He said, squeezing his own palm that he tugs inside his jacket’s pocket.

“So,” He sidetracked, as if he didn't want to make the situation even more awkward than what it already was. “I heard you are almost done with the project. Johnny said we wouldn’t be able to pull through if it wasn’t for your directions.”

You beamed at the sudden praise, “He’s just being polite, Jae. Johnny is more than capable of doing it himself, to be honest. He’s a man with many talents.”

“I agree,” Jaehyun muffled, “Still, do give yourself credit. I know how you always work hard and how dedicated you are.”

The quietness speaks louder than both of you.

“Can I hug you?”

He spread his arms, not widely but enough for you to be in his embrace.

Of course, you were not expecting it.

If only I have the rights to permit you, Jaehyun.

“You know we can’t Jaehyun.”

“Is it that guy?”

You give him a look that asks him to further elaborate his statement.

“The one that picks you up that day?”

“Are you talking about Yuta?”

He flinched at the mention of another man’s name. The gleam in his eyes starts to fade.

“That was him?”

“Yeah, if you could recall, he is Doyoung’s partner from Osaka.”

“You’re seeing him now?”

Hurry can be heard from his tone, as he demands for an answer.

“We’ve been talking a lot.”

“Has he been treating you well?” Jaehyun felt your answer was ambiguous, not confirming anything.

You took a pause before you replied, mustering all of your strength to do so. Hoping that he could swallow your answer, “He’s wonderful, Jaehyun.”

Jaehyun looks down, fussing on his shoes.

He never felt this dejected.

“Strange, isn’t it?” Jaehyun looks at you, “To wake up and your eyes just naturally search for someone that’s not there.”

“Jaehyun…” You pleaded for him not to continue, as you have the hunch that his next sentences will tear you apart.

“I wake up, only to do the necessities for the sake of survival. Better eating, nice sleeping, don’t know what it is.” He shrugs his shoulders, “Instead, I wish I could live on my dreams.”

“My dream is still you. You left traces of you, entangled me. But all I want is to stay.”

A part of you wished you didn’t reject his invitation to hug him. It destroys you when Jaehyun was being so vocal about his heartbreak, and all you did was to run away from him.

“Forget it,” Knowing you’re struggling to get a word out, he did the call. “I guess I’ll go now.”

“You’re leaving?”

“Yeah, it’s about to rain and I finally get to meet you. I don’t want to interrupt your quality time with the rain.” He peeks at the window, confirming that it’s about to drizzle anytime soon. “Don’t look at me like that [Y/N]. It makes it even harder for me to leave.”

“Jaehyun, I-”

“No, I understand [Y/N].” He stopped you from continuing your sentence. “I’ll leave now. I’ll see you at the launching event.”

You saw him disappear through the front door.

He left, yet he still lingers.

–

“You sure it’s OK?” Yuta asked in the front corridor, fixing his suit in front of the mirror.

“What do you mean?” You shouted from your room, making final touches with your lipgloss.

“Well, this is a company event and not just some random party. And he would be there too, ri…”

Your sudden appearance hushed him. Your dress for the night was a maroon halter maxi dress. It was a simple silk dress, but the backless design and the fitted waist feature definitely add more flare to it.

“You look beautiful.” Yuta fixed his gaze on you, not looking away even for a second. “They say the dress made the woman. I say the woman makes the dress.”

His admiration flushed your cheeks, now noticeably pink. “And you look dashing, Yuta.”

He finally looks away, reacting awkwardly over your compliment.

“To answer your question,” You tug the wild strand of hair that decided to rebel itself from the rest of Yuta’s hair. “Yes, even I would love for your company. Johnny already confirmed to me that it’s OK for me to bring a plus one.”

He leans forward, kissing your lips softly, “Who would’ve thought that I would eventually be your plus one.”

You smacked him playfully, “Now, I never know you’d like my lipgloss that much you’d steal it. Should I tell you which brand it is?” 

–

“Ms. [Y/L/N]! Glad you made it in time!” Donghyuck greets you, joyful that he finally has a company.

“Donghyuck! You’re here.”

You held Yuta’s hand while walking towards Donghyuck, who’s busy talking to the waiter nearby. He noticed that your eyes travelled somewhere else, so he is guessing that you might be looking for another person’s stature.

“Mr. Jeong has not arrived yet.”

Your eyes bulged from the false allegation, especially when you’re holding another man’s hand. “I was about to ask about Johnny, though.”

“Ah, sorry!” Donghyuck immediately regrets his choice of words, late at realizing that your hands are firmly intertwined with Yuta’s.

“Mr. Seo said he’s going to be a tad late. He mentioned he would probably come with Mr. Jeong, I guess that is why I mixed them up.” Donghyuck made a poor effort of an excuse, “They got something else to take care of, it seems.”

Soon after, all heads turn towards the entryway. While everybody was mesmerized, you’re the only one who turned pale.

“What’s wrong?” Yuta lowered his face, meeting yours who is busy looking at the ground. He took a gracious glance at the center of the attention, quick to make his deduction. “That’s him, right?”

You gave him a small nod, refusing to tilt up your head.

Fear consumes you.

“Mr. Jeong! Sir!” Says the few people who crowded next to him. “I heard our young Jeong Jaehyun was involved in this project. As expected from your son!”

“Ah yes, this is nothing. This should be the standard coming from my son.” He replies, uninterested to keep them entertained while Mark on his side tries not to show his sour emotion.

“It would be an honor if I could speak a few words to him, sir. Is he not coming with you?”

Before Jeong senior could answer their pathetic efforts to gain his favor, two men entered the hall, almost too dramatic. It was easy to find the reason why people’s attention averted so quickly, they are practically a show stopper.

Today’s event was free from any dress codes, nonetheless both of them are instantly stealing people favoritisms by wearing white suits. Johnny opted for a more toned-down version. Only when you carefully zoomed in the details, you will realize that the lapel was finely embroidered in tiny black sequins. Jaehyun, on the other hand, looks stunning in his choice of suit that is printed with big black and white floral patterns. It’s nearly impossible not to look at them.

“Father,” Jaehyun greets out of courtesy. “I’d like you to stand by near the stage.”

His father gave him a confused look.

“Also,” He continues, “Please bring Ms. Hyun along. I’d like to make a few announcements.”

Even the distance you can tell that whatever Jaehyun is telling his father brings so much delight to him. You never see that cold man look so happy before.

You were in daze before Yuta pulls back your attention, squeezing your hand tighter.

“It’s going to be fine.”

You nod and smile, feeling a bit more relaxed after his words of assurance.

Then you feel like someone is looking, so you look back. 

You regret doing so.

If looking back means you have to see Jaehyun’s broken-hearted face, you would keep your eyes fixed on Yuta's instead. As if his soul was crushed, he never knew seeing you in another man’s arm would hurt so much.

He thought that it should be him, holding your delicate hand. He should be the one who makes you laugh.

Yet he’s only able to stand from afar. 

Yet the only touch that he could give you is the same air that you breathe. 

His tears are dry, but he’s drowning in remorse.

Unable to bear the pain any longer, he walks away. Your eyes are still motioned at his direction, saw how he whispers to Johnny before separating their way. You pretend you didn’t anticipate Johnny’s arrival, when in fact you saw he’s coming to where the three of you are.

“[Y/N]! You’re here.” Johnny warmly hugs you, followed by a friendly peck on your cheek.

“Johnny, look at you, how marvelous!”

“Ditto, [Y/N]. You should’ve checked the mirror!” He returned the compliment, before looking at the man who stands right beside you. “And this is…”

“Oh, how rude of me.” You let go of Yuta’s hand. “Johnny, Donghyuck, this is Yuta.”

“Ah! Nakamoto Yuta, right? [Y/N] briefly told me about you.” Johnny reconfirms, and Yuta replies with a polite smile. “Hi, I’m Johnny Seo.”

“Nice to meet you, Seo. Nakamoto Yuta.” Yuta firmly shakes Johnny’s arm. “[Y/N] on the other hand told me plenty of you. She told me you’re a powerhouse, so I’ve been wanting to meet you.”

Johnny shifts his gaze to you, “Powerhouse? [Y/N], what have you been telling your boyfriend?”

“Nothing, Johnny.” You chuckled. 

Suddenly Yuta’s phone rang, regretfully breaking the friendly atmosphere. He quickly excused himself before ruining the mood further.

“And,” You quickly continue, making Johnny tilt his head closer to yours. “He’s not my boyfriend, Johnny.”

His eyes grow bigger, showing that your statement took him by a surprise, “I’m not Jaehyun, you know? You don’t have to be polite, I saw how you guys cross your fingers together.”

“From the beginning, in fact.” Donghyuck adds.

“Hyuck!” You protested. “I mean, we’ve been seeing each other. But technically we’re not dating yet.”

“Should I emphasize the word yet?” Johnny said, receiving your slap in return. “I mean, if you never clarify, I wouldn’t be able to tell. You are gleaming next to him. Jaehyun saw it too, and…”

“Attention, ladies and gentleman.”

The MC of the night cuts Johnny abruptly, marking that the event is about to start. All of you quickly find your seat, including Yuta who just returned following her cue. After she gathered everyone’s attention, she proceeds on her MC-ing. 

“My name is Mina and I will be your host for the night. First of all, we’d like to thank all of you for coming to our launching event. It’s a great honor to be able to stand in front of our esteemed guests.”

Claps followed her after she reached the full stop. “Of course, tonight’s celebration can’t begin without a grand start. Without further ado, I’d like to welcome our very own COO, Mr. Jeong Jaehyun.”

She left the mic stand, and was quickly replaced by Jaehyun’s figure. Your table is located on the left side of the stage, securing the prime view of the stage. Enabling you to see Jaehyun oh so very clearly, with all of his glory.

“Good evening, everyone.” His low voice echoes, “I’d like to welcome each and every one of you tonight, and thank you for sparing your time to join us.”

He backs off, clearing his throat, “Tonight is the night where we celebrate the launch of our latest and our proudest project yet, Neo Zone. After months of R&Ds, working in between departments, countless sleepless nights from the staff, including myself,” The audience gave him soft giggles in response, “I’m very proud to say that tonight is the origin of a new era for NCT Corporation.”

“Before we take a deeper dive, I’d like to invite important people to the stage because I have an important announcement to make.”

It’s almost peculiar how you saw the MC’s reaction. She wasn't aware of Jaehyun’s sudden declaration judging by the way she looked. As if she didn’t receive the brief beforehand.

“Father, Ms. Hyun Kyungmi, would you take the honor to come to the stage?”

Your heart sank. The addition of Kyungmi, grinning as she couldn’t contain her happiness, makes things worse for you. The sight of his father, escorting her while she can’t stop being so giddy causes you to feel like your stomach to turn inside out.

They’re going to announce their engagement.

Yuta, who even supposedly clueless about the situation, even grasps the whole meaning of Jaehyun’s action. He saw the tense your facial muscles are. He was about to hold your hand so you can relieve the stress, but Johnny outdid him.

“It’s gonna be OK, [Y/N].”

You looked at his rich hickory eyes. While you, and even Yuta are baffled at the sudden detour of the event’s agenda, Johnny shows an opposite reaction. He is very calm and collected despite all the fuss. Confident, even.

Kyungmi didn’t show any signs of hesitation once she reached the stage, trying to act like a smitten fiance and rushed to hug Jaehyun. Jaehyun managed to dodge the worthless affection as he quickly reached out for the mic again.

“As most of you should know, the man standing beside me is the founder of NCT Corporation. Today he is not standing alone as he is accompanied by Ms. Hyun Kyungmi, the daughter of the founder of Hyun Ventures.” Jaehyun quickly introduced them. While his father is keeping his stance, standing tall and pride, Kyungmi is already acting like she’s on a pageant, showing her overly white veneers.

“Without a doubt, I wouldn’t be standing here confidently if it wasn’t for their attendance at tonight's event.”

Jaehyun's speech gains two different reactions. One, Kyungmi that is all over the moon and his father is now busting his chest out, ready to share the happy news. You, on the contrary, wished you were not a VIP for this event, ready to flee. What are they doing, celebrating your sorrow?

Jaehyun cleared his throat, ready to continue his speech in a single breath. Smirk appears on his face, almost too smugly.

“Hereby I’d like to use this opportunity to declare my father denouncement, as he is proven to be guilty in the act of illegal transactions; including drugs, gamblings, prostitutions, and sexual assault. Officers, please guard both Mr. Jeong Sr. and Ms. Hyun.”

The room’s atmosphere took a grand fall. You move your palm against your mouth, at a loss for words as suddenly four people in uniforms enter the stage, married with the audible gasps that echoes in the hall.

A/N: I’m not sure about you guys, but I felt so many emotions writing this chapter. I wish I could have this version of Jaehyun in my life minus the mafia background please. Also! Grab your popcorn people, I think the next chapter should be quite exciting to read :) 

“What are you doing here?” Jaehyun said to the younger boy, who is visibly nervous.

“Father asked me to accompany him, hyu…”

“Elder brother,” Mark corrected himself, anxiously peeking at his father.

“Father told me I should start coming to these events.”

He then saw you, who’s still linking your arm with Jaehyun, “Taeyong told me he met you last week. He also told me about,” Mark took a glance at you, trying his best to find a word he deemed polite. “Her.”

“Ah yes,” Their father joined in the conversation. “Fancy to see you bringing someone, Jaehyun. I was wondering who this young lady might be.”

You were taken aback by the sudden attention, especially by the people who shared the same blood with Jaehyun. You were about to introduce yourself, thinking it’s probably rude to just stay quiet before Jaehyun cuts you.

“She’s one of our vendors. I assume you’d know since you still overlook our projects, Father. She’s from The Paper Plane.”

Almost instantly, you turned your head to Jaehyun. Sure, there are no lies in his words but you know for sure he is the one who asked you to be his girlfriend and not the other way around. So for him to hide your relationship status is obviously disheartening.

“Oh?” His father is now looking at you, scanning you from top to bottom with his cold eyes. “I thought the person in charge of the project was Seo?” He then took a glance at Johnny’s direction. “Why is she coming with you?”

How you wish you could jump into the conversation. Staying quiet is definitely not your cup of tea. However, the fact that Jaehyun is hiding his relationship and how intimidating Jaehyun’s father tone is, you couldn’t help but to back off and let Jaehyun take the steering wheel.

“Johnny introduced us over one dinner.” Jaehyun answers, trying to keep his calm. “The project has been running for six months and sometimes I joined them on their after-meeting dinners. That is when I found out she lived in the same direction as I am, and both me and Johnny agreed we should invite her to our annual dinner party. After all, she plays an important role for this project.”

The head of The Jeong sneaks a look at Johnny, in which he hurriedly answers with a polite nod.

“I suppose,” He seemed satisfied with their answer. “It is remarkable for you to maintain your relationship like this. Keep it up, I expect nothing less, Jaehyun.”

“Now, we don’t want to take more of their time, do we Mark?” He pulls down his suit, fixing it. “I was hoping you could come with us, Jaehyun. After all, this is Mark’s social debut, but I suppose you’d prefer to stay with your group.”

“I’ll come, Father.” Jaehyun replied instantly, removing your grip. “Johnny, can you keep [Y/N] a company?”

After making sure you’re all good with Johnny, Jaehyun follows behind his father and his brother, quickly gathers people around them. Everything is too much, and too fast for you to process.

Johnny noticed the confusion on your face, “Hey, [Y/N]?”

He snaps you back to reality, and you finally look in his direction after slowly watching Jaehyun disappear in the distance. “How much did Jaehyun tell you?”

You’re still zoned out, and you replied with small shakes of your head, in which Johnny returned with a long sigh.

“I’m sorry,” Johnny used his hand to brush back his bangs. “I really, really hope Jaehyun could tell you sooner. I’m sure you’re confused, but it really isn’t my place to tell you about it. It’s… complicated.”

No shit, sherlock.

You have tons of questions left unsolved, just within a few minutes of their interactions. Why did Jaehyun never tell you anything about the family? Why did he seem very uncomfortable with his father? Why did he have to lie about your relationship? Why did he brush his younger brother off when he tried to talk to Jaehyun after he followed them?

But most importantly, you noticed the way his eyes darken after he saw them. The same shade he had when he saw Taeyong.

The puzzle is there, it's just that you don’t know how to connect them into one piece. 

“Sit down first, [Y/N],” Johnny guides you to your seat, which you followed without replying a single word to him.

He then holds your hand, not in a romantic way but to assure you that he’s here to help you with your anxiety. You’ve been continuously biting your lips and tapping your fingers to the table unconsciously. 

Realized you’re probably rude for not saying anything, you finally speak up, “How complicated, Johnny? He just lied to his freaking father about our relationship.”

“I’m not forcing him to tell me anything, believe me I don’t. But he’s the one who asked me to be his girlfriend, heck, he asked me to move in with him. Don’t you think I deserve some kind of explanation?”

No longer can hide your disappointment and anger, you lashed out to Johnny. The person you’re ranting to, though, doesn’t seem to mind. He knows that you have all the rights to feel the way you are right now.

“What I can tell you about this, that it’s been a long, long time since Jaehyun lived alone. His relationship with his father is complicated,”

You rested your face to your hand, sighing, not satisfied with his answer.

He gulped, being extra careful with his words and making sure there are no extra pairs of ears that could hear you guys. “And… Mark is his half-brother.”

The sudden bomb of information is enough to alert you, making you sit up straight.

“And that’s how far I can tell you, [Y/N]. I know it’s not enough to answer the questions that you have, I’m sorry.”

Seeing how regretful Johnny is by the look on his face, and you couldn’t help but to feel the guilt that starts creeping into you. You finally forced yourself to smile.

“Please, don’t be sorry. It’s not your fault and it’s not your responsibility to tell me anything. Though, I’m grateful that you did. Thank you, Johnny.”

He scratched his head, tightening his lips to form a timid smile.

“Anyway,” You relaxed your shoulder, “It would be wasteful to spend the party feeling all gloomy like this, don’t you think? Do I have to be unladylike and call the waiter to bring us the champagne? Jae told me you guys are providing drinks.”

Johnny snorted adorably, loosening up eventually, “Ah yes, let me call the waiter.” He said while moderately raising his hand.

“You know, I kinda started to feel like you’re wasted on Jaehyun.” He was impressed by the way you handled this, still trying to not make the situation worse by exhausting him with sulking.

You rolled your eyes, “For the love of God, tell him that. I’d probably have to cancel my moving plan.”

Both of you laugh till your ribs hurt, just in time for the waiter to start pouring your share of champagnes.

–

The silence suffocates you.

Jaehyun doesn’t feel like putting his playlist on, and neither did you. He turned on the radio, only to be annoyed with the song selections. In the end he got frustrated and decided to turn off the stereo completely. You spent the whole journey back home only with the sound of the car’s engine.

He lets you enter first, so you could proceed to remove your heels. He came inside, removing his suit and stubbornly keeping his silence.

“You don’t expect me not to ask anything again, do you?” You finally broke the quietness.

You thought this party was supposed to be another leap in your relationship with Jaehyun. You thought this could strengthen the bond you shared with him, with him introducing you as his, knowing how territorial he is. Sure, it was always pleasurable to spend the night with Johnny, but you couldn’t lie that you were expecting to be introduced not just as a vendor for their company.

He opens up the button on his sleeve, still refusing to see you, “[Y/N], please, can we talk tomorrow? We had a long night and I think like we should rest first.”

“And what, for you to postpone this even more?”

“Jaehyun, I don’t know anything about your family, and I never want to touch on the subject if it crosses the line. 

“But you have to start putting your trust in me, Jae. It’s not like I’m going to tell the town about you. Why would I?”

“Babe, please, another time.”

“Of course, you were not lying when you told your father about you being my client. I think I deserve to know something. It’s weird that I have to know it through Johnny.”

He paused.

“How much did you hear?”

The tone he used was cold, piercing through the air. 

“Well…” You halted, not sure if you want to tattle on Johnny. “He told me that your situation is complicated, and that young boy… Mark, was it? Is your half-brother.”

The last sentence flinched him for a bit, before he let out a quick sigh. He didn’t bother to look at you and continue to march inside, ticking you off.

“Jeong Jaehyun,” You finally try to catch up on him. “It’s going to be very difficult if you just shut me down like that. We’re about to live together, for God’s sake, but you don’t want to tell me why you hide our relationship to your own father?”

“[Y/N]! I have my reasons, OK?!”

He accidentally raised his voice on you. It was the first time he ever shouted on you, so you were equally as shocked as him. Your vision starts to blur as tears gather in the corners of your eyes, gathered at a constant speed that it almost spills in no time.

“Fine,” You took a breath in, trying your best not to shed a tear in front of your boyfriend.

“If you don’t want to tell me so be it. But don’t expect me to share the bed with you tonight, or until you finally decide to say something to me about it, in fact.”

You rushed yourself to the bathroom, locking it before Jaehyun could chase you. He didn’t, and the walls you’ve made finally crumbles. You made an effort to subdue the sobbing noises, but you really didn’t care. 

All you want right now is to at least cry in peace.

–

The familiar touch on your forehead woke you up. Although it was a pleasant touch, being woken up abruptly causes you to be on full defense.

“What the fuck Jaehyun?”

You sit straight up, looking at him who’s currently sitting down on the floor, fixing his position. You need to have some space between you and Jaehyun after what happened, therefore you decided to sleep in the guest bedroom instead. Though your vision is blurry, you noticed that he is still using the same shirt and the same trousers, and he smells like nicotine. 

“You haven’t showered?”

“No, I couldn’t sleep,” He reached for your hand, and when he almost touched you, you unconsciously flinched.

He looks at you, eyes are misty as guilt starts to crawl.

“I’m sorry.” Jaehyun chokes back as he tries to spill out his words. “I didn’t mean to yell at you. If I could give you any excuse, I’m just not in the right state of mind but that doesn’t mean I could, or should shout at you.”

“That doesn’t answer anything, Jae.”

He nods while biting his upper lips, visibly thinking on what he should do next.

“I know, eventually I have to tell you and believe me I’ve been meaning to. I just haven’t found the right time.”

Looking up, Jaehyun gave you that puppy stare and managed to melt you. He reached your arm again, and this time you held his hand back, letting him play with your fingers.

“Mark and I,” Jaehyun finally ready to start his story. His eyes traveled inside his memories. “As Johnny mentioned, we’re half-brother. As you might… realize, my father, he came from a wealthy family.”

“So it’s only natural for him –back then to be wed with someone who my grandfather carefully selected. It was my mom.”

You gulped as you listened. You weren’t sure how this story goes, so you held his hand tightly, making sure Jaehyun knew that you’re here as his mental support.

“Father, he…” You can see the glints in Jaehyun eyes, and this is another side of Jaehyun that you don’t know. You never saw him this vulnerable.

“Jaehyun,” You move your hand to his cheek, gently caressing at where his dimples would pop when he smiles. “I’ll always have your back, OK? But if I’m opening an old wound that I’m not supposed to, then please I don’t want you to force yourself. It might be contradicting to what I said before, about you not telling me anything. But at least you did try to tell me something now, and that’s enough, love.”

His eyes widens, before it softens after feeling your touch. He rubs himself to your hand like a cat, missing the comfort you gave to him.

“No, it’s OK. I think it’s just fair for you to know. The cat’s out of the bag anyway, what’s the point of me trying to hide it anymore?”

“My father, he was a busy man. He was rarely at home, and whenever he was, he would just go straight to sleep for –top, 4 hours before leaving for work. But Mom, she did try her best to be the ideal wife. She made sure whenever Father came home, food was always ready and she never bugged him, or asked for more money than what Father already gave to her.”

“In the end, Father fell for her, for real. He was so attracted to Mom’s gentle personality.”

“However…”

A small sigh of anxiety leaps out of his mouth, and you try to dampen the situation by crossing your fingers to his, in an attempt to calm him down.

“Father… wasn’t the most gentle person. He was violent to Mom. It starts whenever Father was not well rested, but ultimately it builds up and sometimes he would just shout at her for no reason.”

You can feel your pulse start to pound, eyes involuntarily flickering as Jaehyun continues his story. 

“I guess everybody has their limit? Mom would ask me to go to my room whenever Father came back, because she didn’t want me to be affected. I was used to being alone at home.”

“Until one day, Father went rampage. It was usually just shouting, so as a little boy I would hide my face under the pillow, trying my best to cancel out the noise. But on that day I heard multiple shattering sounds. Mom usually never fought Father back, but she was screaming that day.”

There was a momentarily silent, “Mom, she… had an affair. She never loves Father to begin with, she thought she would be OK without the affection, but I guess eventually she longed for it. She’s only human, after all. Father failed to give it to her, with the addition of his violent act.”

Your body reacts like there’s a warzone inside, feeling uneasy about how could the man you love so much experienced such a painful past. Every chapter that he unfolds is like a blade slashing your heart. Each word that left his mouth was too much for you to bear, your eyes starting to well up.

“Long story short, Mom was pregnant, and if you could guess it, she was having Mark.”

“Father was a prideful man, apparently he found out about her pregnancy when it was almost impossible for mom to go for an abortion. So instead, he never told anyone that Mark wasn’t his, and pretends that Mark is his own… in public.”

“In public? What do you mean?” You finally speak up, knitting your brows together.

“Father felt betrayed, so he never treats Mark… very well.” He tried to find less-offensive words, making it PG for you to digest. “It was getting worse, Father became overly protective of Mom, making sure she won’t have another affair.”

“She told me once that she could take it, though she wouldn't be able to do so if it was her kids – me and Mark.”

“You?”

“Yeah. Father hated Mark. He never physically hurt him when he was younger, but he would often belittle him. Since he refuses to accept Mark as his son, more often than not he would tell Mark that his blood is filthy.”

You were shocked with the last sentence, finally your tears rolled down your face  “Jaehyun, I…”

“Yeah, in a sense I naturally felt bad for Mark and tried to protect him. Father might hate him, but I don’t. I don’t have any reason to. I was a child, but I guess my sense of justice was there? So I’m always there for Mark, we fairly shared a good relationship back then.”

“Then one day, Father came home, completely drunk. He yelled, asking for Mom’s presence. As usual, she asked us to stay in our room, but curiosity got the best of us, so we took a peek and saw Father physically abused her.”

“Mark was braver than me, probably because he also had enough scolding so he ran to Mom, trying to shield her. Father ended up rampaging at Mark too, like all the hatred that he’s been bottling exploded.”

“I had to jump in, and my father didn’t hurt me –physically, but for the first time he shouted at me, asking me why did I protect them, the sinners, and even asked whether I’m his own son.”

Before you’re able to find the proper word, Jaehyun continues as he felt he wanted to finish this, “Each day I spent at home, I grew to hate my father even more. How could a person have such a cold heart? Hate is such a strong word, but I can’t find any other that could describe my feelings toward him that perfectly. It leads me to leave that house after I enter college.”

“But… you’re still working with him?” You choked up, trying to fight the tears that kept coming out.

Worry is painted on his face at the sight of your crying face. “I return because of Mark. Someone has to take the family business and I realized that after leaving home. I don’t want Mark to have such burden in his life, not after how Father treats him.”

He hesitated, “Uhm, I still have a bit more, but do you want me to continue? Please don’t cry.”

Jaehyun uses his thumb to rub away the trail your tears left on your cheeks, eyes blood-shot red. And you couldn’t fight it anymore, you rushed to hug Jaehyun.

“Jaehyun I’m sorry… I…”

You couldn’t find the proper word. It’s only natural to feel dejected when your loved one tells you his dark, sorrowful past. You couldn’t imagine the sweet, caring man you are fond of has such deep scars.

“Ssh, please don’t cry,” He tries to calm you down, brushing your hair. The role is reversed when you’re supposed to be the one who calms him down. “It was all in the past. It will always be a part of me. But I’m trying to overcome it. This battle with my past, and my relationship with my family is like a cruel game, and I cannot lose. I’m on my pace to start anew, and I’m on the right direction. Like, meeting you has been one of the steps that I take to move forward.”

He cupped his hands on both of your cheeks while you’re still sobbing, eventually trying to suppress your sadness because you don’t want Jaehyun to see you in such ugly state.

You made an effort to shake your head while still on Jaehyun’s hold, “If you want to continue, then it’s fine. But I know enough now and I don’t want to open your wound any bigger.”

Curls appear at both ends of Jaehyun’s lips, dimples finally make their appearance. He wipes up the remaining tears that you have, removing the droplets from your lashes. 

“You eyes are swollen,” He said, feeling guilty because he just made you cry again, even after you cried yourself to sleep. “I should be the one who’s sorry.”

Jaehyun planted a soft, warm kiss to your lips. There was no lust, just pure affection from him.

“It’s salty,” He chuckled softly, covering his lips with his hand.

“Well sorry for that.” You crossed your hands in front of your chest, sulking.

He stands up, as he tries to unknot your hand. “Don’t be mad, love, we just made up.”

The way Jaehyun pleaded instantly moved you, and you grinned at him. “Did we just have our first fight?”

He laughed, that you could describe as a warm and hearty one, “It’s your fault for pushing my button.”

“My fault? It’s your fault for hiding shits from me, jerk. And for leaving me alone at the party. You didn’t move your attention away from Mark, you know.”

“Oh? I smell some jealousy?”

“That’s it, I’m not sleeping with you, I’m staying here. Go sleep on your own”

“Oh come on, love. I thought we would have make up sex?”

“I didn’t know I dated a satyriasis.”

“Again, your fault for pushing my buttons. You know I can’t have enough of you.”

You rolled your eyes, “Fine, I’ll move back to our room. No love making tho, my eyes are all sore, today is cuddling only.”

Jaehyun pumped his fist, feeling victorious.

“Also,” You turned back to him, after getting out of bed. “You better shower, mister. Tobacco scent suits you well but I would like to keep my bed sheets smelling like fresh laundry, thank you.”

He chortled with delight, “Sure, I’ve been meaning to use your brand new body gel. The only time I can share the same scent with you is during weekends anyway.”

“Why? Scared of smelling like a female?”

“No, I don’t want others to know what you smell like. It’s exclusively mine.”

You pushed Jaehyun away, embarrassed with his sudden sweet-borderline-possessive remark. You guys walk to your bedroom, and while you plop your body to the bed, Jaehyun proceeds to the master bathroom.

You were staring blankly at the ceiling, as the sound of the shower trickled down. Suddenly your ringtone rang, surprising you. It was already quite late, who would call you at this ungodly hour?

It was an unknown number. Additionally, it was a private number too. Since you don’t feel like answering a phone call whilst having a croaky voice, you ignored it. However, the second call came immediately after the first one ended.

You don’t want to worry Jaehyun, as he might ask who would call you this late. Sure, if it’s only once then you can tell him the person is probably calling a wrong number but two consecutively probably means something.

“Hello? Who is this?” You cleared your throat before answering, making sure you sound as professional as you can be, although a part of you is annoyed.

“Ah, you finally picking up, Ms. [Y/L/N].”

It was the cold baritone voice.

A/N: Whew! Things are starting to unfold! Also, we’ve made it to the second half of the story (who would’ve thought!). To be honest, I’m still not confident on how you guys would react to the story, but personally I think things are about to get quite... intense hahaha.