#jooheon fluff

He huffed, scooting closer and placing his elbows on the edge of the couch before dropping his chin into his open palms.

“I know, but I really think we should open at least one early so we can enjoy it together.”

I stared at him. Shaking my head as he pushed his bottom lip out a bit further. He was right about his schedule being full the day of this year. In fact, we had both barely managed to get some time off this week so we could spend at least some time together. We had actually planned on going somewhere today, but the gloomy weather outside had us deciding it may be better for us to stay in. Although I almost wished it hadn’t been so muggy outside because at least we would have been spending that time together.

Being stuck in the house instead meant there was an awful lot of distractions around for us to focus on rather than each other. Especially as Jooheon, who had sworn he wouldn’t work, picked up his laptop. Which led to me picking up a book when “just a minute” turned into fifteen, thirty, an hour, and the last time I had checked the time, we were approaching three hours. The blessing in it was that he at least stayed in the room with me. His occasional humming and thump of his fingers against my calf to whatever he was listening to reminding me he was there.

And that’s how we spent the morning into early afternoon together. Until Jooheon came to a stopping point and suggested we open presents early. Maybe suggested wasn’t the right term. Begging is a better word for what he was currently doing. Snapping my book closed I relented.

“Alright. We can open one.”

He jumped to his feet, victorious grin on his face as he made his way to our tree. That didn’t have many gifts under it in the first place. At least for the two of us. Most of them were meant for friends and family. Jooheon sifted through the little we had, looking like he was searching for one in particular before picking up a rather large box. He examined it for a second, and determining it was what he had been looking for, brought it over to me and deposited it in my lap.

“Are you sure you want me to open this one?”

“One-hundred percent.”

Shrugging, I began pulling the wrapping paper off. Pausing only when I could almost visibly see Jooheon shaking with excitement. Or maybe nerves. He looked up at me when I stopped.

“What?”

“Are you alright? You’re acting like you’ve downed a gallon of caffeine or something.”

“Yes. I’m fine, will you please hurry up? I’m dying over here.”

“You just said you were fine.”

“Y/N.” He stared at me in frustration.

The look of him making me laugh as I returned to opening his gift. Under all the paper was a plain cardboard box. The top of it barely taped shut making it easy for me to pop it open the rest of the way to find… another wrapped box. Glancing at him, I pulled it out. Making quick work of the paper and tape on this one too before finding another wrapped box inside it. I dropped it into my lap to look at Jooheon in exasperation. He was laughing as if seeing me go through these boxes was the funniest thing he’s ever witnessed.

“Really? Is this entire thing just going to be wrapped box after wrapped box?”

“Just keep going. You’re almost there.”

I was not, in fact, almost there. I tore through four more boxes inside boxes. My pile of trash growing in size next to me. Becoming increasingly annoying until I resorted to balling up every piece of wrapping paper I pulled off and throwing it at him.

“Jooheon! This is such a waste of paper and cardboard!”

He dodged another ball of wrapping paper. Cackles filling the room as he weakly nudged my leg to keep me going.

“Seriously. You’re getting closer.”

“Was your goal to piss me off? Because consider me thoroughly pissed right now.” I huffed, ripping open the top to find, surprise surprise, another box. “I don’t even want to keep going.”

The boxes continued to get smaller. Package getting lighter as I disposed of subsequent boxes and paper. It wasn’t until the wrapping paper covering each box changed from the green elf peppered print to a sparkly red and gold that Jooheon stifled his laughter and turned more serious. Figuring this must have been what the real gift was I frowned at him.

“Jooheon, I swear to God if this is another box…”

I sighed angrily, opening this one and fully expecting to find another box. And it was another box… sort of. It was a small, rounded square red velvet box. One I recognized from a jewelry store that Jooheon frequented on the rare occasions he did buy me jewelry. Which wasn’t super often, but that was because anything he brought from there wasn’t cheap and I didn’t let him spend that much money on me often. Already expecting it to be extravagant, I flipped it open, turning to stone the moment I laid eyes on the ring pillowed inside. The beautifully cut diamond in the center making it painfully obvious exactly what meaning it held.

Beside me, Jooheon shifted his position.  Gently taking the box from my hands and moving onto one knee in front of me. His head dipped, attempting to catch my eye from where I still sat staring at the ring. It felt like time had physically stopped. Everything around me moving at a snail’s pace. Including the way Jooheon called my name. Finally, I broke myself out of the trance. My eyes finding his easily at the same time my emotions caught up. I reached out, taking hold of his ear and pulling as tears streaked down my cheeks.

“You jerk! I don’t know whether to kiss you or beat you with one of these couch cushions for making me open all those damn boxes!”

He whined, catching my wrist to get me to let go of him. I did so reluctantly, choosing to wipe the overflowing tears away as they trailed down my cheeks.

“I’m sorry.” His smile was soft, meltingly gentle.

“You’re too much.” I sniffed, falling into his embrace when he opened his arms.

I buried my face into his shoulder. I couldn’t look at him much longer without breaking down into pieces. At least this way I could try to put myself back together long enough to give him his answer. He held me tightly in his lap, patient as he coddled me.

“I love you so much Y/N. Nothing would make me happier than if you agreed to marry me. No matter how annoying I may be.”

I laughed through my crying. Probably sounding like an utter mess, but I loved this goofball of a man more than anything in the world. And he was choosing me.

“Of course I’ll marry you. But just know that I’m already plotting payback for all those boxes and wasted paper.”

“Looking forward to it.” He chuckled.

I pulled away, waiting for him to take the ring out of its box to its home on my finger. He did so happily. Sliding it onto my hand before looping his fingers with mine and pulling me close again.

“I love you.” He whispered, his lips touching mine lovingly.

“I love you too.”

There is no taglist for this series.

There are photos of you and Jooheon and his friends. As well as photos of your life in general. 

But then an idea hits you, you always love doing your makeup and love trying on different outfits so why not create a makeup account, where you share makeup looks that you create, as well as outfits of the day. 

 Thinking this would be a way of expressing yourself and having fun with it simultaneously.

There wouldn’t be any hassle or issues with it as you know you’ll be able to go out at your own pace, since it’s all for fun anyway. Plus it gives you something to do whilst you are bored, waiting for your boyfriend to get home from work. 

Just before you go to create a fresh account, your phone starts ringing and Jooheon’s caller comes up on your screen as soon as you try to press ‘Add Account’. 

“Hey baby,” Jooheon sings happily down the phone, making a smirk grow quickly on your face after hearing his voice.

“Hey, hows work?” you answer, twirling a piece of hair in between your fingers.

After a little pause, he sighs, “It’s okay, eveyone keeps piling their work onto my desk and I seriously don’t want to do anything than be home with my baby”.

He’s so sweet and for what? You could tell he’s bored and tired, especially when he gets all sappy like this, but you love it because you feel the same way, you just can’t wait for him to get home.

“I can’t wait for you to get home too... Oh, babe!” You excitedly exclaim down the phone, remembering what you were originally going to do before he phones.

From your excitement, he instantly gets excited too, “Yes baby?”.

Sitting upright on the bed, you fall onto your front, getting yourself comfortable with your feet waving in the air behind you, “I’m going to be making a make-up and outfit Instagram, just for fun. I just want a place to express myself and I think it’ll be awesome!”. 

Cheerfully laughing down the phone, Jooheon can’t help but make the happiest noises, “Will you let me pick a few outfits and give you make-up ideas?”.

“Of course, babe. You could even be on it if you really want to?” You smile and you wouldn’t be surprised if he could tell how big your smile was down the phone, exclaiming a huge ‘YES!’ down the other end. 

“Oh btw... Damn, I’ll call you when I finish baby, managers coming down the corridor. I love you!” He cheers down the phone, letting you reply with an ‘I love you’ before hanging up.

Going back to what you were originally doing, you set up the account then go through your photos to see what you could do as a first post. But not before you set up an aesthetic for your highlights, loving every second of it.

So excited over it, you also start to make notes on what you could do on certain days, and plan what make-up looks you can start doing. 

After making your first post, you follow Jooheon first, who in return, instantly follows you back, commenting on your first post, calling you beautiful and telling you how lucky he is to have you. It comes as no surprise that he even shares this in his story, just wants to show you off.

It’s been months since you started this new account and you are beyond enjoying it, loving every second of it.

You’ve even got yourself into a little routine, and you’re doing very well for followers even though that’s not why you started doing it in the first place. But you’ve grown to be quite fond of how amazing and supportive your followers are. Especially when they throw ideas your way. 

You’re creating another new make-up look at your vanity, applying your eyeshadow and your phone starts to vibrate viciously with notifications, at first making you smile at first seeing the notifications rack up.

‘This look is amazing! Can’t wait for more.

‘You’re so talented!’.

‘Oh, to be as pretty as you!’.

‘Whoever your partner is, they’re so lucky’.

Everything seems to be going amazing so you place your phone back down to continue adding to the art on your face, even with Jooheon behind you on the bed on his phone, but occasionally looking over at you with the sweetest grin on his face.

“You’re so pretty, baby,” Out came the compliment in such a soft voice as you momentarily pause, turning to face him, blush started to appear on his cheeks when you smile back at him.

It was the worst time to let him butter you up, throwing you off a little as you start to have a small giggle fit, “Don’t compliment me, babe. I’ll get big headed”.

That’s all that matters to you, is what he thinks of you and he thinks the world of you, making you content in your relationship and confident in yourself also. 

You couldn’t help but laugh when he starts to giggle more, hearing him shuffle behind you but not expecting the sudden back hug he gives you, almost making you brush bright blue eyeshadow down your cheek.

“Baby!” You whine, placing the brush down but your whine turns into laughter when he starts peppering kisses on your neck lightly, “I’m trying to make a masterpiece, don’t ruin it!”.

You playfully slap his arm which gently rests over your shoulder as he notices your phone going off again.

“Can I look at your comments? I’m sure they’re all amazing!” The excitement in his voice is too cute to say no, nodding to him as you try and get back to what you were doing.

Giving you some space, he sits on the chair next to you, looking through your comments when another notification comes through, another comment on your post.

In an instant, his grin turns into a frown as he reads the comment.

‘Who let her have make-up? It’s not like she can make herself look any better?’

Refusing to let that ruin your mood, and he knows you’re going to get people being horrible to you eventually but right now? he’d hate for you to see it so with a swift swipe of his finger, the notification and comment are being deleted.

Luckily you’re paying too much attention to have noticed the change in his expression, only when he forces a smile as he hands your phone back.

“Everyone is being so kind to my baby, as they should,” He kisses your shoulder, then gives it a reassuring squeeze before leaving you to it, “Would a cup of coffee be nice right now?”.

“Yes please, babe. That’ll be perfect right now!”. 

Taking one moment to look at your progress, you can’t help but feel giddy about your work, being very impressed with how you’ve managed to pull the eye makeup off. 

Now it was time to add the eyeliner, however, you couldn’t help but notice your phone is blowing up with notifications, unable to hold yourself back from looking.

Again, you find the usual compliments and your heart feels warm from them all, but then you see it. The hate comments. 

It’s part of being on social media, you’ll always get negative people trying to push their own opinions without suffering consequences. You know this, but you couldn’t help but let the comments bring a lump to your throat.

‘You’re not talented, you’re ugly. Look at your OOTD’s, I would never let my girlfriend post photos of herself if she’s fat and ugly like you.

‘Instagram isn’t the right place for you. Maybe a farm would be better suited, cow’. 

Those have to hurt, despite trying your best not to get affected by them. You notice how your followers try to defend you and call these horrible people out and as much as you appreciate them, you can’t help but look at yourself in the mirror again. 

Starting with your cheeks, you start to nit-pick at yourself, poking at pinching your cheeks, down to your chest, arms, stomach and thighs. Tears well in your eyes as you consider how they might be right. 

Trying your best, you shake it off, reminding yourself that people like them will have what’s coming to them and their opinion doesn’t matter. You weren’t going to let an hour's work on your make-up so far ruin what you’ve accomplished the last few months in building confidence and happiness.

But another comment hits your notifications.

‘Why would you be happy with yourself when you’re fat? Come on, reality check, you shouldn’t be happy’. 

One that pokes at your weight once again, and the masterpiece you started to create on your face slowly gets ruined by your tears, you smudging your look with your hands as you wipe away the strays.

Rushing to grab a make-up wipe, you slump back into your chair, pressing it to your face as you proceed to take the make-up off, sobbing into the wipe as you struggle to fight away the bad thoughts of yourself that invade your mind.

Mid-cleaning your face, Jooheon walks back in and the second he hears your little sniffle, he places the coffee down on your bedside table and rushes over to you.

“What happened? Your make-up was so pretty, why are you crying?” His voice cracks, and seeing you cry pains him as he pulls you into a tight hug, your phone screen bright in his peripherals.

In an instant, he knew, and his heart jumps to his throat. 

“They’ve started, haven’t they?” He asks softly, acting oblivious to the fact that he already knew they had. 

Nodding into his chest, you sob a little harder, arms clutching around him tightly as he gently caresses your head, playing with your hair. 

“What did they say? Can I see?”.

When you nod into his chest again, with shaking hands, he reaches for the phone, already open to the hate comments that you had looked at over and over again, feeling himself boiling with anger.

“Hey, don’t listen to them. Please don’t cry,” He whispers, kissing your head as he slowly peels himself away from you just to cup your face in both hands, wiping away the tears with his thumbs. 

“But that they said was right, I shouldn’t have started this account. I’m not talented, I’m fat, I’m ugly...”

“No. No you’re not. They’re wrong. You started this because you love make-up and you wanted to show off your amazing fashion sense. I know this has helped you with your confident and it was amazing to see you glow and bask it in. You’re beautiful, you’re amazing and so talented. Please, don’t listen to them,” Jooheon begs.

“But...”

“No buts, baby. You’re perfect. I love everything about you and you should love everything about you too. You’re everything a man could dream of, and more. I love you”. 

“I love you too,” You sniffle through the tears, forcing a smile as he softly returns one, pulling you in for another hug.

“Now, go wash up and come back, I’ll have an outfit picked out for you, let me be your photographer,” He cheers playfully, pinching your cheeks and placing a kiss on the tip of your nose. 

No matter what you could think of yourself, Jooheon would always see you as perfect in his eyes. And the way he looks at you reminds you that you’re more than just these silly little comments. 

~

During the competition, Y/N couldn’t help but chuckle at Jooheon. Sweating slightly with flour in his hair and icing around his bottom lip, he meticulously assembled his gingerbread pieces. Every so often, he softly muttered under his breath, planning his design and occasionally stealing glances at her structure.

Meanwhile, Y/N was lost in her own world, humming a Christmas tune as she delicately placed candy hearts on the walls of her gingerbread house. Gingerbread, mixed with cinnamon and the faint scent of Jooheon’s cologne, filled the room.

At the end of the three hours, two different gingerbread houses stood in the living room. Y/N’s structure was an intricately decorated mansion with neat frosting trims and candy cane pillars. Jooheon’s house, while a bit wobbly, carried the essence of traditional gingerbread houses with child-like charm, complete with Tic Tac stones and gummy bear residents.

As Jooheon looked over at Y/N’s masterpiece, his signature pout started forming on his lips as his eyes fully scanned Y/N’s gingerbread house. He let out an almost defeated sigh, shoulders sinking. His gaze drifted back to his own creation, the corners of his mouth down, turning in that distinct pout she found so endearing.

Y/N took in his downcast expression, suppressing the inclination to tease him. She walked over, giving him a gentle nudge. “Pouting again, love?” she teased softly, giving his sides a gentle poke.

“Not fair,” he grumbled, mouth still downturned. “Yours looks like something out of a magazine.” He gestured at her gingerbread mansion with a flour-coated hand.

“The beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder, Jooheon,” she reassured him, offering a soft smile. “Yours has charm and authenticity. Look at those gummy bear residents and tic tac stones. It’s filled with character.”

Her words brought a slight smile to his lips, easing the pout somewhat. “It isn’t quite a mansion, though, is it?” Y/N laughed, circling her arms around his waist from behind. “It’s not about the mansion, Jooheon. It’s about the heart you put into it. And from where I’m standing, your house has lots of heart.”

For a moment, they stood quietly, taking in the sight of their creations. Their friendly competition was more about this bond and creating a memory than winning or losing.

You're sitting beside Jooheon with your legs on his lap when he asks, “What if we stay at the tubing lodge and go sledding this weekend?” You grin, “That sounds fun.” He pulls your legs higher onto his lap, “Good, 'cause I already booked the tickets.” You cackle, “Joo!” He smiles, “I knew you'd like it.” You sigh but smile as you say, “You’re right, I’m excited.” You lean your head on his shoulder, “So, where is this lodge?” He smiles, “Just an hour away.” You nod, “Okay. We’ll have to pack.” He agrees, and when it starts growing later into the night, you both make your travel bags for the trip. 

He lets you control the aux on your way up. He turns up the volume as you play songs to gear you both up. Since you couldn’t check in until 3 pm, you both went to a breakfast place. You happily eat a late breakfast at a diner. He clinks your orange juices together. And he grins, “So, how many hills do you think we can sled today?” You smile, “As many as possible.” He grabs your hand to hold while you’re eating and rubs his thumb along the back of your hand. You smile as you eat another bite and squeeze his hand in yours. 

After a filling breakfast, you both get in the car, and he drives the short distance to the lodge. You grab your bags and head to the front desk. They successfully check you in and give you both keycards, telling you about the complimentary breakfast they serve. You thank them, and in the elevator, you both plan to go tomorrow morning. You both check the hotel room before putting your stuff away. You both hurry to get suited up in your scarves, two layers of coats, and snow pants. Topping it off with mittens, hats, and snow boots, you head back down the elevator into the lobby.

When you come back down, the person at the front desk goes, “Oh, I forgot to mention, we also give out four complimentary hot cocoas per day.” You both grin and nod at each other, making mental plans. But before you can voice them, you find the stand to rent your sleds at, and you say, “Hourly rate isn’t bad, a buck per hour?” He agrees, and you ask, “Three hours?” He checks his watch, “Yeah, that's fine, it’s already 5 pm.” You nod, and you hand him three dollars, which he pouts and shakes his head, crossing his arms and refusing to accept the money. He continues to pout until you put your cash away. He grins at you when you're next in line. He quickly pays for three hours before you can give the clerk your money. You roll your eyes, and you both pick out your sleds and mitten in mitten, you both climb up the first hill. 

At the top, when you’re in the line waiting patiently for your turn, he asks, “After sledding, do you want to have hot cocoa at the lodge?” You smile, “I'd love to.” When your turns come, you head down together, not racing each other, just experiencing the thrill. And you giggle as you hear his little ‘Woah’s and he giggles as he hears your gasps of excitement too. When you finish the first hill, you head to the second baby hill, arm in arm. “How many hills do you think we can make today?” He hums, “Maybe six?” You agree and wait for the kiddos in front of you to sled down with their parents before sliding down. 

When you get off the second hill, you high-five, and he goes, “Want to race on the next ones?” You grin, “You’re on.” You both rush over to the following mound. And you both get up there still linked together. Yet you both set out to beat the other down the slope. You make yourself as aerodynamic as possible as you both shout, “Go!” before speeding down the hill. While it wasn’t that tall, it was still thrilling to race your boyfriend down it. You giggle as you roll off the sled at the end, “I win!” He pouts, “This time.” You kiss away his pout, “Better?” He wrinkles his nose, “Maybe.” You kiss him again, “How about now?” He smirks, “It feels good to lose to you.” You laugh and shake your head before heading to the next slope. 

The third and fourth hills are just as fun, growing taller and taller the further you head up the mountain. Both of you high-fiving at the end of each. You couldn’t think of a better way to spend your day together. You take a water break, rehydrating yourselves before heading to the fifth slope. He holds your mitten tightly in his, “Are you excited?” You nod, but the closer you get to it, the more your stomach turns. And you can’t figure out why. But you do your best to shake it off as you begin the race to the bottom.

Maybe it was how you were sitting, but it all happens so fast and so quickly. One moment, your sled was underneath you. And then it was gone the next, and you’re rolling to a stop. You cry out immediately, “Honey!” He calls back, “You okay?” When you stop, you do your best to feel your cold appendages. You move all your fingers, feeling no snow burn. You confirm that you’re okay. It just shakes you up. He walks up the hill to you and holds his hand out to you, which you shakily take. He pulls you up and puts your sled against his underneath his other arm as he keeps you close with his other arm.

He gets you safely out of the way of other riders and to the path. He asks again, “You okay?” You sniffle, “Yeah, just a little embarrassed.” He nods, “It’s okay, it happens.” You sigh, and he lets you process it. You take a few deep breaths, absorbing that your sled left you behind. After another minute, he asks, “Would you like to try it again?” You nod, and he kisses your forehead. You both make it back up the hill instead of racing against each other again. You sled side by side down the slope. And you both successfully land at the bottom. You laugh with glee and jump up and high-five him. You collect your sled and follow him to the next hill.

“You did it!” He cheers, and so do you as you walk to the last hill. Which is the tallest on the side of the mountain you were both on. The line was long, but you were excitedly waiting your turn to sled down. You heard the cheers and laughter of people experiencing the thrill of sledding down the massive hill. You grin as you hear someone scream, “Woohoo!” He laughs, “That’s going to be us.” You giggle, “It will be.” You lean your head on his shoulder, waiting for the line to move. It takes forever before you’re both up next. You squeeze his hand, and he encourages you, “You got this. I can feel it.” You sigh, “Okay.” He kisses your cheek, and you kiss his. You both line up before laying on your boards, waiting for the last two people to clear off the bottom before kicking off. 

You giggle in glee all the way down as you successfully ride down and catch more and more speed. When you both reach the bottom, you loudly let out a “Woohoo” together before moving out of the way of the next sledders. You look at the time, “We got enough time for a medium hill four times or a big hill twice?” He goes, “Medium four, more sledding time, even if it’s a smaller thrill.” You agree, and you both rush to the third hill, where no one is sledding down. You end up making five more runs because no one else wants to choose to sled down your hill. So, you both happily sled until it's time to return your sleds. 

You return your sleds and head to the hot cocoa stand. You show them your keycards, and they hand you one each. You move out of line and head inside the lodge. You turn to him and stare at each other, finally catching your breath after the endless climbing and sledding. You were both beat. You smile as you look down at your warm cocoa. That is slowly warming your hands up through your gloves. You tentatively take a sip, worrying it will burn your tongue. You gasp as it doesn’t burn but soothes your cold bones. You look at him to see he’s experiencing the same thing and giggle. You drink your cocoas silently, taking in all the fun and cold you’ve experienced. You pout as you sip the last of it yours. You look over at him to see him expressing the same disappointment. You ask, “Second cup?” He agrees, and you both head out and get another cocoa together. 

“I’m gonna go down to the gym for a bit,” I announce as I step out of the bathroom. “Wanna come?”

Draping a towel over my shoulders, I face my cousin, who is lying on the bed still snuggled beneath the comforter, a Kindle blocking her face from view.

Peaking over the device, her lips turn down, “Meh, no thanks.”

I let out a chuff in amusement even as I grab my phone and room key.

“Welp, I’ll be down there for an hour or two if you change your mind.”

“Mhmm…”

I chuckle to myself, quite certain she didn’t actually hear what I said. She is already lost in whatever book she is currently reading. We’d driven down together to attend the long-awaited Monsta X concert. We had held on to our excitement until we arrived, the worry that it would be postponed, yet again, nagging at the back of our minds. All that pent-up anxiousness needed an outlet, and the gym would be the perfect place for me to get rid of some of it. 

The event was tonight, but 7:30 seemed so far away, it only being 9 am. There was no way I could wait. Taking the elevator down to the first floor, it’s not long before I’m swiping my card against the black reader and stepping into the hotel’s gym. Thankfully it’s empty, and some of the tension in my shoulders loosens up. I make my way straight for the treadmill, popping in my earbuds as I begin to play an audiobook. 

An hour later, I’m just about to step off of the treadmill and move on to work out my arms when I hear the door click shut. Dabbing at the sweat on my face, I remove the earbuds and decide to leave instead. Looking up as I pick up my phone and room key to at least offer a smile to the incomer, I freeze for the briefest of moments as my eyes make contact with the person. 

It’s freaking Jooheon!

He smiles back but frowns as I pass by him quickly, ducking my head as I make my way towards the exit. There is no way I am staying in there…alone…with him. Nope. Screw arms today!

“가지마 (Gajima-Don’t go).” He doesn’t say it loud, but it’s enough that I can still hear him. It’s almost as if he is testing me. Maybe to see if I would respond or keep going? Either way, it doesn’t matter. Just hearing his voice has me instantly stopping and turning to face him. “You understood me?” he asks, surprised. “You know Korean?”

I shake my head, my heart beating so loud he sounds a bit muffled to my ears. “No. I can’t speak it fluently, but I do know some words.” Then, tilting my chin towards him, I add, ”That one word you said is one of them.”

He smiles sweetly, his eyes turning to little slits as he waves me over.

“So you will stay? We can work out together.”

“Uhm, are you sure?” I ask even as I look around, wondering if I’m being pranked.

“Yes, come on. I’m Jooheon,” he reaches his hand out.

“I kn-” I stop myself, wanting to give him the opportunity to have a normal interaction. Instead, I slip my hand into his, and he shakes it gently.  ”I’m Y/N.”

“Nice to meet you,” he grins happily.

“Nice to meet you,” I chortle, then clear my throat. “I’m glad you asked me to stay. I kinda wanted to do arms anyway.”

“Ok!” he says, jubilantly clapping his hands loudly together. “I spot you; you spot me.”

I can’t help but giggle at his enthusiasm.

“You can spot me, but there is no way I’ll be able to help you if one of those bars comes down on your throat.”

He just laughs, “We won’t be using barbells.”

“Oh,” I say quietly as my cheeks warm. 

He hands me a set of dumbells, and we start, going through various arm exercises that he guides us through. By the third rep, he’s standing behind me, tapping my shoulders lightly.

“Don’t bring them to your ears. Just relax.”

I nod my head, “Got it.”

We continue on, working through various dumbbell arm exercises. I take every tip and suggestion he provides, and I’m grateful the workout has my face flushed because every word of encouragement and praise he throws my way has me overheating.

Forty minutes pass when the repetitions become more difficult to complete. I push through the burn, wondering if my heavy breathing is from the exertion or his proximity as I begin to struggle. I grit my teeth, my arms trembling through the last few v-raises as they become much too difficult to execute.

“You got it,” he cheers me on. “You're doing so good.”

“I can’t,” I groan, wanting to drop the equipment but hating to disappoint him.

“Yes, you can,” he urges as he sets his own weights down. “Let me help you a little bit.”

Jooheon steps behind me, his body so close I can actually feel the heat radiating from him. His arms extend, and I watch through the mirror as the palms of his hands glide across my skin before gently pressing up at my elbows. His breath blows across my ear, and I have to bite down on my lower lip to suppress a sigh and a shiver. Swallowing thickly, my eyes shut in order to block out the image of us in the mirror.

“OK,” I say more to myself as I try to clear my head.

“Don’t forget to breathe.” 

My eyes open, and he smirks at me through the mirror as if he knows the very inappropriate thoughts that are running through my mind.

“Right,” I nod, unable to think of anything else to say, and my face reddens even more as I try to look anywhere but at our reflections.

We lift together, his hands just barely touching me now as I focus on raising my arms without his help. We get through five before he takes the dumbbells from me.

“Good work,” he beams proudly as he puts the weights away. “I have to go now,” he informs me after glancing at his watch. “I have a concert tonight.”

“Yeah, I know,” I smile. “I’ll be there.”

“Really?” The smile he throws my way is so pleased; his eyes have disappeared into little slits again. “What seats do you have?” I tell him, and he tsks. “Let me get you something closer. I’ll leave a ticket for you at the box, ok?”

“You don’t have to,” I try and decline, not wanting him to think I want to take advantage of him.

“Let me, ok?” he insists with a pout. He looks around and grabs a brochure and pen that were near the door. “Put your first and last name here and phone number.”

“I’m here with my cousin….”

“There’s no problem. I’ll leave two tickets.”

I take the brochure and pen and find a spot where I can write my name and phone number. 

“Here you go.”

Taking it back, Jooheon asks, “Do you want to come up and have dinner with me after the concert?”

   Taken aback, I try to push down the panic and excitement as I battle within myself, wanting to say hell the fuck yes vs. I really really shouldn’t.

I mumble, “Mmm, I don’t know….”

“ I promise to be perfect gentleman.”

The glint in his eyes is telling me the opposite, and I smirk cocking an eyebrow at him, not hiding the fact that I don’t believe him. He shrugs and winks.

“Ok. Fine,” I find myself saying, a nervous flutter tickling my stomach.

“OK,” he repeats with a grin. “I’ll see you at the concert and then after.”

“Yes.”

He slips on a face mask. Then, placing a hat over his sweaty locks, he draws the bill down low and walks me out the doors. 

“Thanks for the workout,” he murmurs through the face mask as he stops outside the gym.

“Anytime,” I shrug with a smile

“I’m going this way. Bye-bye.”

“Bye.” I walk in the opposite direction, a dazed smile on my face. By the time I step into my room, I’m wondering if the interaction has all been just a daydream. My cousin stretches drowsily in the bed but then sits up straight as her gaze lands on me.

“What happened?”

I plop down into the desk chair and wheel around to face her, my eyes still wide.

“You are never going to believe this,” I shake my head. “I’m still not sure that I even believe it myself, to be honest.”

“What is it?” she insists, pulling back the covers to let her feet plant firmly on the carpeted floor. “You’re making me nervous.”

“Guess who I saw at the gym?”

She eyes me warily even as she offers “Monsta X” with a snicker.

I cock an eyebrow at her, and she stills.

“You saw Monsta X in the gym?!”

“Not all of them, just Jooheon.”

“Jooheon?!” she nearly screeches. “As in your ultimate bias?”

I can’t help but grin now as I nod and tell her everything that happened. Suddenly my heart falls heavily into my stomach.

“I just realized he didn’t tell me his room number! How am I going to meet up with him after the concert?”

“Don’t freak out. You said you gave him your number, so maybe he’s going to call you. On the other hand, he’s probably just trying to play it safe,” she points out. “You just met, so it’s not like he can fully trust you.”

“That’s true,” I allow. 

“Now, go take a shower and get yourself a nap. I have a feeling this is going to be a loooong night for you,” she wiggles her eyebrows suggestively at me.

“Stop,” I whine. 

“I’m just sayin’,” she shrugs. “Your boy deserves the Gluck Gluck 3000, so Imma need you to deliver.”

“Oh my God,” I groan with a huff.

I shove her playfully, my face flushing pink at the insinuations. She falls onto the bed, clutching at her belly as she cackles boisterously. Her laughter is still audible even after I close the bathroom door behind me.

“That was amazing!” my cousin sighs blissfully beside me as we make our way to the car.

I hum in agreement, my heart still racing from the experience of the hi-wave and the send-off.

“It sure was.”

“Your boy really had a hard time keeping his eyes away from you,” she bumps me playfully. I could only giggle because she was right. “That one time he crouched down next to us?” She shakes her head. “I have no idea how you are still alive right now.”

“I’m not,” I clutch at my chest. “This is my ghost you’ve been talking to since this morning, actually.”

“Well, you better get back into your body, girl,” she chuckles as we approach the vehicle. “Joohoney is going to need you alive and well.”

We both burst into laughter as we get into the car. While she drives off, I rummage through the totes we were given when we arrived at the venue. 

“That was really nice of him to leave us gifts,” I murmur as I dig through the beanie, shirt, and baseball cap until I reach what I’m searching for. I take out the photocards and look at them again. “Having the guys autograph the PC’s, too? He really didn’t have to do that.”

“Yeah. That was super sweet. I know I’m not alone in thinking we would have been just as happy with only the tickets,” she smiles, genuinely touched by the gesture.

“No, I agree, for sure.”

The ride back was quick, the hotel only being ten minutes from the venue. I take a quick shower, and it’s not long after that I’m standing in front of the full-length mirror eyeing myself, disappointed sighs slipping past my lips as I turn this way and that. I am not satisfied no matter which angle I present to the mirror.

It’s not like I had actually planned on meeting any of the members of Monsta X, so I hadn’t brought anything fancy to wear. In fact, I was dressed the complete opposite of fancy. I was extremely casual in a pair of dark blue regular fit jeans, the flesh of my thighs and knees peeking through the random rips on the material. My top was simple, an olive green v-neck t-shirt that I tried to dress up with the same jewelry I had worn to the concert: a silver necklace with a bee charm that dangles delicately just above my cleavage, the Jooheon version of the TTG bracelet on my right wrist.

“He already saw you sweaty and in workout clothes,” my cousin tsks at me. “Stop bashing yourself. You look great.”

“Ugh,” I groan in exasperation. “Did you see how some Monbebe were dressed? They were gorgeous. How can I compete with that? That’s probably why he hasn’t called. He took one good look at me at the hi-wave and was like, ‘nah’.”

My cousin tugs me to the bed, and we both fall back onto it.

“You need to get those negative thoughts out of your head,” she commands firmly. “He gave you better seats; he gave you a swag bag,” she counts off on her fingers. Then looking at me, she adds, “He asked you to eat with him…while you were both funky from working out. He’s gonna call.”

I meet her gaze and see assurance staring back at me. I try and fight back a smile but fail miserably.

“Well, when you put it like-”

An instrumental version of “Magnetic” cuts me off and we both gasp, shooting up off of the bed.

“Oh shit!” my cousin exclaims. “Pick it up! Hurry.”

“What if it’s not him?” I fret as I snatch up my phone. “It says ‘Unknown Caller’.”

“Really?” my cousin deadpans. “Who else would be calling damn near midnight?”

I chuckle sheepishly and swipe my finger across the screen to accept the call.

“Hello?” I answer as nonchalantly as possible.

“Hello. Is this Y/N Y/LN? “Yes. It is. Who am I speaking with?”

I look up to see my cousin grinning across from me as the unfamiliar voice comes through the speaker of my cellphone.

“My name is Alex with the Monsta X US security team. I’m calling on behalf of Jooheon. If you are still interested in accepting the invitation, he extended to you, then please meet me at the elevator lobby of the 8th floor.”

“Yeah,” I nod dumbly. “Yes. I’m still interested. I’m just a few floors down, so I’ll be up in a minute.”

“Ok. I’ll see you then.”

The call disconnects, and I grab my cousin’s hands and squeal in a mixture of excitement and nervousness. She laughs and pulls me in for a hug.

“Don’t forget to breathe,” she grins. “And whatever they make you sign, just know that shit don’t apply to me, right? I need every little detail from the moment you walk into his room to the moment you leave. Got that?”

I giggle as she walks me to the door, “Oh, for sure.”

“Ok, here’s your key card, and you have your phone.” Hands on my shoulders, her eyes lock onto mine as her tone becomes serious. “If you become uncomfortable, or shit goes sideways, you call me. I don’t give a fuck what time it is. I took my shit off Do Not Disturb just for you, bitch.”

I smile fondly at her, “Well, I guess you really do love me. You don’t take your phone off Do not Disturb for no one.”

“You got that right.”

“But seriously, yes. I will call you if anything goes wrong.”

Giving me another hug, she opens the door for me.

“Now go have fun,” she winks as she wiggles her fingers at me.

I can only laugh as I step out into the hall and make my way to the elevators. Inside, I swipe the card, press the eight, and watch as it lights up. I feel my heart begin to beat unnaturally fast as butterflies flutter furiously in my belly. I’m so focused on breathing to relax that I jump when the elevator pings and the doors open. So much for calming my heart rate.

Waiting a few steps away from the doors is a man dressed in all black, possibly in his later 20s or early 30s. He motions with his hand for me to approach him. I step off of the elevator and hear the doors close softly behind me.

“You’re name?” he asks, and I answer automatically as I look around. There was no one else in this area. “ID, please.” I frown but open my phone case to provide him a view of my driver’s license. He nods, and I close the case. “I’m Alex. We’re just going to move over to the hallway. I have a form I need you to fill out. Do you know what an NDA is?” I nod. “Great. I just need you to read over it. If you agree with the terms, just sign the bottom, and you are good to go.”

“Ok,” I reply meekly.

As we come out of the lobby, we make a right into the hallway, where there is a table. Another man is sitting there, and he passes Alex a clipboard with a sheet of paper and a pen. I glance passed them to see a young woman in a pink halter top that exposes her toned abdomen. The matching mini circle skirt reveals a pair of long shapely legs. The white platform shoes she wears accentuate her lovely calves. She is absolutely gorgeous, and I can’t help but feel insecure about how I look compared to her. 

I watch as the door she’s in front of opens, and the smile on her face widens as she steps in. Whoever answers speaks too softly for me to make out which member she was there to see. 

“Here you go,” Alex draws my attention back to him as he hands me the clipboard. 

I smile weakly at him, “Thanks.”

Looking down at the sheets in front of me, I swallow thickly as I skim over the words. I would not be able to post about the encounter on social media. I would not be permitted to post pictures taken during my time with Jooheon. If I violated the terms of the agreement, I would be fined. Depending on the extent of the information released, I could also be sued. I had no plans on blabbing about my time with Jooheon…except with my cousin. No one would believe me anyway. Signing at the bottom, I return the clipboard to Alex.

“Thanks,” he smiles down at me as he passes it to the other person. “Come on.” I follow quietly behind him, my palms beginning to grow clammy. “You can keep your cellphone, but keep in mind what you just signed. Anything that happens once you are with the artist cannot be shared in any form on social media. You cannot speak to journalists or the news. Got it?”

I nod, “Got it.”

“Ok, go ahead and knock,” he instructs. “Have a good night.”

“Thanks. You, too,” I reply as he begins to walk away.

Taking a deep breath, I bring my hand up to rap my knuckles against the door. I catch sight of my watch lighting up with 00:00 just as the door opens. I feel my entire body shut down as Jooheon comes into my line of vision. When I see that he is dressed in a pair of blue jeans and a black and white striped tank top, not something fancy, my body restarts, and I offer him a bashful smile.

“Come in,” he smiles back as he widens the door. “The food’s already here. Is that ok?” I look over at the coffee table in the center of the room to find it loaded with various containers of food, two shot glasses, and several bottles of soju chilling in a bucket of ice. “I was missing home, so the staff sent up Korean food.”

“I like Korean,” I nod as he draws me in closer to the food after closing and locking the door behind us. “Oh, uhm, my shoes,” I pause before going any further.

“You can leave them by the door, or you can keep them on if you want.”

I glance over my shoulder to see his shoes by the door, so I go back to leave mine right next to his. 

“So what exactly do we have?” I ask as he guides me to sit on the carpeted floor.

He hands me a pair of chopsticks and then begins to open everything, naming the different dishes as he goes. 

“This is tteokbokki, and this is mandu. Here is tonkatsu. I also have bap, uh rice, and salad.”

He smiles at me, and I glance over everything, looking for a plate of my own. Not finding one, I look back up at Jooheon.

“Uhm…is there a plate…”

He chuckles endearingly at me, a small hint of amusement twinkling in his eyes.

“No, no. We share food. We eat together from same plates.”

Right. Here’s to hoping I don’t make a mess in front of the one person I admire so much.

“OK,” I look down at everything nervously.

Jooheon grabs his phone and loads a slow R&B playlist, adjusting the volume down low before setting his phone on the table. At first, we ate quietly, letting the music fill the hushed space. I’m too focused on making sure I don’t drop anything I find I don’t feel awkward anymore. With the smooth, melodic tunes playing soothingly around us, it actually feels quite comfortable, and I let myself relax. It’s not so bad being close to him, so close our knees keep brushing against each other as we reach over for different assortments of food. No, it’s not so bad when I’m not looking directly at his face.

“It’s good, right?” Jooheon catches my attention just as I bring a thick piece of tteokbokki into my mouth.

“Mhmm,” I hum with a few nods as I try to chew through the gummy morsel enough to be able to swallow it down so I can offer a proper reply. Jooheon chuckles as I clear my throat. “Everything is so good. I skipped dinner, I’m surprised I didn’t pass out during the concert,” I admit. “But I’m glad I didn’t eat before because this is soo yummy, and I wouldn’t have had room for it.”

“Oh! Come, you have a little something….” Jooheon murmurs distractedly even as his hand reaches out towards my face. My eyes widen, and my breath catches in my throat as he palms my cheek. Just when I was starting to feel at ease, I groan internally. I feel the blood drain from my face as I wonder: Is it time? Is this his way of telling me he’s ready to…to… His eyes flick to mine, searching as he says, “You’re shaking. Are you cold?” I swallow thickly, my cheeks flushing slightly as heat creeps back up. I shake my head, and his brow wrinkles as he assures, “I’m not gonna hurt you, ya know?”

I nod, “I know.” Unable to take the intensity of his gaze any longer, I look down at my hands. Not liking that I caused him concern, I let out a shaky breath, admitting, “I just…I like you too much, so I’m just… I’m really nervous.”

Jooheon uses his index finger to lift my chin, gently forcing me to look back up at him. “But you don’t even know me.”

The slight smile he gives me deepens his dimples, but the gesture does not fool me. It doesn’t quite reach his eyes, and the ache in my heart at his tone tells of the weight the words carry. He’s right, though. I don’t know him. Not really. I see what he allows the world to see, the version of him the company portrays. But that’s just a part of him, not all.

His thumb wipes away whatever had been at the corner of my mouth, and I watch, entranced as he brings the digit to his mouth. My own lips fall slightly open when he begins to suck at his thumb, my breathing growing a smidge heavier. My thoughts stutter to a halt, and my tongue swipes slowly across my lips. Jooheon winks, removing his thumb and returning to eating as if nothing had just happened. 

Meanwhile, my heart struggles to settle down, my core is throbbing, and my underwear is beginning to grow unpleasantly damp. The rice cakes I’d just been munching on seem unnaturally thick now as my throat grows dry. I reach over for a bottle of water. Twisting off the cap, the contents are nearly gone before I realize Jooheon is watching me with a bemused smile.

“What?” I awkwardly wipe the back of my hand across my moist lips.

He chuckles, and it does nothing to help my sudden unquenchable thirst.

“Nothing,” he shakes his head, a closed smile showing just how tickled he is with me. “Ready for some soju?”

Maybe that would help relax me. 

“Yes.”

“Let’s go!”

I grab a piece of tonkatsu and watch him as he takes one of the green bottles from the ice bucket. First, he swirls the bottle around creating a little tornado inside. Next, Jooheon flips the bottle upside down and knocks the bottom with his elbow. As he brings it right-side up, he twists off the cap, and then, opening his index and middle finger, he jabs at the neck of the bottle, spilling a very small amount onto the table.

“Oh!” I exclaim, pleased by the display. “Fancy.” 

“To Y/N, for coming to see Monsta X and cheering so loudly.”

I laugh as he serves me a shot, but as he moves to pour one for himself, I stop him.

“Let me.” Jooheon’s eyebrows rise, but he doesn’t stop me. “I might not know much about your culture, but I do know you’re not supposed to pour your own shot.”

“Ok, you know what’s up.” The impressed smile on his face makes my own widen. 

I cup the bottle in both hands and pour him a shot. “To Jooheon, who worked so hard and always does his best to give us great music.”

“Aish, I’m honored, but none of that two-hands stuff, ok? We are friends, right?” 

“Uh, yes?”

He sucks his teeth at me, pretending to be upset, and I can’t help but snicker. We both pick up our shot glasses, and he lifts his up towards me. 

“Geonbae!”

“Geonbae!” I parrot.

I giggle as he clinks his glass with mine before we both throw back the shots. I suppress a shiver as the liquor slightly burns a warm path down to my stomach.

“Good?” Jooheon cocks an eyebrow at me.

“Real good,” I admit. “Another?”

“Ok!”

He pours me another shot, and I do the same for him. We swallow those up, and I can feel the liquor already easing my nerves. He says I don’t know him, but would it even be possible for me to change that? After tonight, would it even matter if I knew who he was besides Monsta X’s Joohoney? I decide that, even if it’s just for a few hours, it is worth knowing the man that’s sitting right next to me.

“So,” I speak up, using liquid courage. “How have you been?”

Jooheon looks up mid-bite, “Well, we’ve been real busy preparing for the concert. I’ve been working hard on perfecting my steps….”

“I’m sorry,” I stop him. “While it’s nice to know about your work, I’m not here to interview you. I don’t want to know about Joohoney. I want to know how Lee Jooheon is.”

His eyes squint at me, his index finger pressing pensively at his lips. Had I overstepped? Maybe he didn’t understand? I only meant for him to feel like a person, not an idol, if even for tonight. I open my mouth to clarify, but at the same moment, he straightens up, and the warm smile returns to his face.

“Ok,” he starts. “Thank you for asking about me. I appreciate that.” He pats his chest as he says this. “I actually been doing really good. Of course, I miss my family, and just like anyone, I have days when things are a bit too much in my head, but now I have ways to help me work through it, so…” he shrugs.

“That’s really good to hear. I can’t imagine living the life you do,” I shake my head. “It just all seems so overwhelming.”

“Idol life is a tough one, that’s for sure, but I get to travel, meet new people, and make music, which is what I love to do. No one ever got to live their dream without some hard work, so it all seems worth it for me.”

We go back and forth, asking each other questions for some time before we realize we’ve gone through three bottles of soju. I’d been having so much fun getting to know the “real” Jooheon that the time just blew by. I’m already feeling a little fuzzy in my brain and definitely far more relaxed than when I first came in. 

Nodding my head to his latest reply, I then ask, “Ok, so what have you watched recently that you think I should watch, too?” 

“Ya! That reminds me. I was hoping we could watch a movie,” he says as he starts to get up and clear off the bottles and containers of food. “Unless you have to go….”

“No. I can stay,” I reply, maybe a little too quickly, even after I glance at my watch to see it’s almost 1:30 in the morning. Despite the food and alcohol, I’m surprised to find I’m not sleepy at all.

“Are you sure? What about your friend?” he asks, a bit too casually.

“My cousin,” I correct. “And she’s fine.”

“Ok, ok. Well, I’ll just clean up here, and we can start it.”

I help him clean up the remaining garbage. His room was different than mine in that it had a living room area, and the bedroom was separate. I glance around for a bathroom. All that alcohol was wreaking havoc on my bladder.

“Is it ok if I use the bathroom?” 

“Yeah, sure.” He tips his chin towards the open doorway beside the couch. “It’s in there.” I make my way there but stop at the entrance. Peering in, I’m surprised to see everything so tidy. I’m not sure why I’m so amazed by the neatness of the space. I just figured an idol is too busy to clean up, clothes and snacks strewn everywhere. But this looks like no one had even slept in this room yet. “It’s ok. You can go in.”

I look over my shoulder to see Jooheon smiling reassuringly at me as he wipes his hands on his jeans. He shoos me with his hands, and I head straight into the bathroom, locking the door behind me.

The bathroom is clean as well, a light scent of men’s shower gel clinging to the air still. As I sit to relieve myself, I shoot my cousin a quick text.

ME: Everything's good. Jooheon’s super sweet, and we’re having a really good time just talking and drinking.

I set my phone down, finishing up, not expecting a reply, but as I button up, I hear the vibrations on the bathroom counter. Washing my hands, I dry them quickly and open the new message.

COUSIN: Talking and Drinking? Is that what adults are calling it these days? 😜

ME: 😅Nope. Everything is still PG. We are about to watch a movie.

COUSIN: 🤭Enjoy the “movie” I’ll be here reading for a bit more. Call me if you need me.

ME: I will 😘

COUSIN: 😘

Locking my phone, I slip it into my back pocket and look at my reflection in the mirror. My eyes are literally glittering in the bathroom light, and my cheeks hold a blush that tells of the laughter and maybe the alcohol we had been partaking in. I smile giddily at myself, whispering, “holy shit!” as I turn around and exit the bathroom, only to halt in place as I switch off the light.

Jooheon is sitting up in bed, legs crossed at the ankles and phone in hand as he loads a movie he is casting from the device. 

“Hey! Just in time,” he waves me over. “Come. Sit.”

“We’re going to watch it here?” I fidget with the hem of my shirt.

“Yes,” he shrugs as he stands. “Comfier. Sit. My turn,” he points behind me.

He squeezes my shoulder as he walks past me and into the bathroom. I approach the bed and look down at it. Jooheon slept here, I think to myself. I’m going to be sitting on the same bed as Lee Jooheon…with Lee Jooheon, I correct. 

Shaking my head, I force the thoughts out, put my phone on the nightstand, and climb onto the bed. By now, I think I’ve pretty much given up on the idea that anything will happen between us. Maybe he was not looking for someone to fuck tonight. Perhaps he was just wanting to have a casual night with someone outside of Monsta X. Someone to do ‘friendship’ things with. That would make sense why he picked me versus any of the pretty Monbebe I saw today. I try not to feel too disappointed as I make myself comfortable. Either way, I was having fun just hanging out with him. Propping up a few pillows behind me, I’m adjusting my shirt when he comes out. 

“Ready?” he asks as he turns off the light in the room.

“Yeah, what are we watching?”

“One of my favorite movies, if that’s ok? It’s called ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.’ Have you seen it?”

“Never heard of it,” I admit.

“진짜 (jinjja)?!”

Jooheon’s mouth drops open, his eyes wide as he stares at me. I cover my mouth as I try to hold back a giggle. He looks so cute when he looks at me with that shocked expression.

“Yeah, really,” I snicker.

“Yah! You have no idea what you’re missing!” He’s swift to sit next to me on the bed and press play from his phone. “Let’s get it!”

I let out a little laugh but quiet down as the audio begins. The movie draws me in as I feel myself relating to the male protagonist. The quirkiness of the female protagonist soon has me laughing at her antics. It’s not long before the sweetness of the blossoming relationship takes a dramatic turn.

“What?!” I scrunch my face. “Why is he crying? Was there a time jump I missed?”

Jooheon chuckles, “You have to watch and see.” I purse my lips at him, and this makes him laugh. “Stop,” he bumps my shoulder. “I won’t spoil it for you.” He pats my hand and then laces his fingers with mine. I look down at them, loving how natural it feels. Sobering up, he asks, “Is this ok?”

I nod, murmuring, “Yeah.”

“OK.”

We both return our attention to the movie, but my heart has started fluttering behind my ribcage. His hand is so soft, warm against mine, and I love how it feels. 

“Wait, I thought this was a rom-com,” I stiffen when things become a little strange. “Is this actually a scary movie?”

“I told you I’m not going to spoil it,” he smirks at me. “Are you scared?”

I shake my head, “I wouldn’t say scared, but maybe a little…on edge. It seems like it’s going the way of horror.”

Jooheon presses his lips together to keep his features from giving anything away. 

“I can hold you if you want. You know, if you’re scared?”

“N-” I stop myself. Am I really turning down the opportunity to be held by the one person I believe to be the most handsome man in the world? When will I have this chance again? “I mean, if that’s ok with you….”

“Yeah, come.” 

Jooheon lets go of my hand, patting the space in front of his now spread legs. I try to force any inappropriate thoughts from my head as I maneuver over his leg in order to sit where he directs me. I nestle against his torso and fight to hide a smile as he snakes an arm across my chest while his other hand settles on my hip.

Instead of feeling awkward, the position feels comfortable, and we continue to watch the movie. Occasionally the hand at my hip would squeeze, and I swear it was as if he were touching me directly in my most intimate place. Then, halfway through the movie, when he shifts his arm to stretch it, he accidentally grazes over my breast, and I audibly inhale as a jolt of electricity shoots down straight to my core. 

Jooheon stiffens for a moment. The handle I believed I had on my impure thoughts seems to disappear, and my hips shift, seeking any sort of friction to soothe the ache that had been building between my legs the whole night. Jooheon draws in a shaky breath just as his hands glide down my ribcage and to my hips. A grunt escapes my lips when he hooks his fingers into my belt loops and tugs me up high and tighter against him.

“Well damn,” I breathe.

The soft chuckle he lets out into my ear has my eyes closing. My tongue swipes slowly across my lips as his hands trail back up to cup my breasts.

“You want me to stop,” he murmurs, “just tell me.”

I nod my understanding, whispering back, “It’s ok,” as if I were afraid the spell would break.

Those beautiful hands of his that I had always admired in photographs or from my screen now squeeze at my covered tits, and I can’t even keep from arching into his palms, soft moans spilling from my lips. He reaches down for the hem of my shirt, and for a second, I feel panic. The thought of this man seeing me without clothes just seems so overwhelmingly out of this world. It’s something I never imagined would ever happen that, even as it’s currently going on, my brain just cannot wrap itself around it. He shimmies the shirt up and over my head, and I’m grateful that the only light comes from the tv. 

Jooheon picks up the necklace from my chest and asks, “Did you wear this for me?”

I can hear the smile in his words as he toys with the little bee charm.

“Yes,” I glance away from his fingers.

“That’s cute.”

“Stop,” I blush.

Jooheon chuckles then nips at the top of my ear as he drops the necklace. I let out a gasp when he returns his attention to my bra-covered globes. His thumbs brush over my nipples, the nubs instantly hardening even more. I grip onto his thighs, trying to find something to steady me. The muscle there is thick, hard beneath my palms, and my mind conjures up some very erotic images of me riding one of his thighs.

Wasting no more time, his fingers trace a path down to my jeans, where they deftly release the button. My breath catches as my attention hyper-focuses on his hand as he slides the zipper down and then slips beneath the hem of my underwear. The instant the pad of his finger glides over my clit, a shock of electric heat shoots throughout my body. The sensations feel way too good; I can no longer hold my head up and let it fall against his chest.

Jooheon delves lower and soon discovers exactly just how much I am enjoying everything so far. A mixture of a purr and groan rumbles in his throat as he swirls his finger around my juices, pulling a moan from me. Bringing his focus back to my most sensitive bundle of nerves, I feel like I’m going to lose my mind. His movements are slow at first, stoking the embers that he had already lit with his previous ministrations. I don’t even realize he’s brought a hand back up to one of my breasts until he’s pinching at my nipple. He pulls the cup down, removing the barrier, and the warmth of his hand directly on my flesh is searing hot. His thumb flicks rapidly against the pebbled nub, and the fingers at my clit also pick up the pace. 

“Oh, God!” 

I rut against his fingers, my cheeks flushing with heat not only from the pleasure that is building but also from shame. I am utterly mortified at how desperate I am for him. Yet, at the same time, I can’t stop myself. My hips roll of their own accord, faster, more desperately, and I push away all thoughts seeking more of what he is offering. I focus on how good he is making me feel. His slim fingers, slick with my arousal, slide so smoothly over my sensitive bud, making my back arch and my eyes to close tightly.

“Shit,” I pant.

I can feel his erection poking at my back, and I wish so badly he would just fuck me with it already. 

“That’s it,” he presses his plush lips to the back of my neck. “Just let go.”

He sucks at my ear, moaning softly as his fingers speed up. I bite down on my bottom lip, trying to quiet my moans.

“Let me hear you, baby.” Jooheon’s voice is low, gravelly with lust. “Say my name.”

I gasp loudly as stars burst behind my eyelids. A flood of warmth shoots through my body, and my hands push roughly down on his as my clit throbs.

“Oh, fuck, Jooheon!” I grit out as he brings me over the edge. “Jooheon!”

My hips jut forward a few more times as his fingers try to move beneath the vice-like pressure my hand has on his wanting to drag out my release. As over sensitivity soon takes over, I pull his hand away and attempt to catch my breath. Jooheon kisses my head tenderly, his hands soothingly coasting up and down my arms as he waits for me to come down from my high.

Holy shit! I think to myself. Did that just really happen?!

As the bliss of the moment slowly ebbs away and reality sets in, it’s all I can do not to freak out. I am so grateful he can’t see my face and the grin I am fighting so hard to keep from breaking out on my lips. 

“괜찮아 (Gwaenchana-Are you ok)?”

The deep timbre of his voice breaks into my rampant thoughts. Am I ok? “Mhmm,” I nod dumbly.

Hell yeah, I am!

“Let me see,” he insists.

I press my lips together as I sit up, fixing my bra before maneuvering around so that I am now kneeling between his legs. Jooheon has a very pleased grin on his face that makes it difficult to keep one of my own from finally breaking free.

“See?” I say playfully.

Jooheon lifts a hand up to my chin, his thumb swiping across my mouth. His eyes darken, the stare intense as he watches me. Instantly, my heart thrums back to life behind my ribcage. Then, like a magnet, I’m drawn down towards him. Jooheon stretches to meet me part way, and we both swallow each other's sharp inhales when our lips finally crash against each other.

And his plush lips feel even more incredible than anything I could have imagined. Jooheon wraps an arm around my lower back, pulling me tighter against him. Hands on his shoulders, I wriggle out of his hold and break the kiss. I’m going to lose my mind, with how good he looks. His cheeks are flushed, and his lips are swollen from our passionate kiss. 

“Where are you going?” he whines with a pout.

“Not far,” I tease. “Just returning the favor.”

“Returning the fav-” His voice trails off as I reach for the button of his jeans. Eyes locked on my hands, he breathes out, “Oh….”

I can’t help but giggle as he eagerly lifts his ass to help me get his jeans and boxers off. The cock that springs out in front of me is achingly pink and stiff. Knowing he got this way just from touching me greatly boosts my confidence. Tossing the pants over the edge of the bed, I look up to see Jooheon cock an eyebrow at me. 

I huff out a short laugh, “Fine.”

I hop off the bed. With my jeans already unbuttoned and unzipped, it only takes me two seconds to remove my own pants and socks. They join his pants on the ground with a hushed thump. As the movie continues to play in the background, I return to the bed to find Jooheon completely naked. In the short time it took me to take off my pants, he’d removed his tank top and socks. 

 Lying on the bed, his teeth nibbling on his bottom lip, he is complete perfection. The dim lighting the TV provides does nothing to diminish the soft glow of his tanned skin. Though he is not bulky with muscle, there are still shadows cast across his lean upper body and abdomen that beg to be traced and explored.

Crawling back between his legs, I watch the abdominal muscle beneath his skin contract in anticipation. My nipples tighten behind my bra as my own core contracts at the sight of him. I flit my eyes up to meet his heavy-lidded ones and watch his Adam’s Apple bob anxiously in his throat as I bring my mouth closer to his weeping dick. The hiss he lets out as his tip meets my tongue is music to my ears. He tries so hard to keep his eyes open, to watch as I wrap my lips around him, but his head falls back as he lets out a deep groan, hands fisting in the comforter. Flattening my tongue and relaxing my jaw, I slowly take him deeper and deeper inside my warm, wet mouth.

“Oh, shit,” he curses as he looks back down.

His pupils are completely blown out, his eyes appearing black as they watch me intently. Seeing him so wrecked because of what I’m doing emboldens me. Lifting up to lap at the tip of him, my fingers envelop his shaft. He reaches a hand out to cradle my head, urging me to take him in again. I don’t fight it, letting him guide me back down along his length. My hand and mouth work in tandem, sliding up and down his cock. Hollowing my cheeks, I swirl and curl my tongue around him, and the long-drawn-out groans that it pulls forth from him have moans and whimpers of my own vibrating up my throat. 

I can feel him growing harder against my tongue, so I’m slightly surprised when his hand shifts from my head down to my chin and tilts it up. His dick slips out of my mouth with a lewd pop, and he almost looks like he regrets stopping me.

“What?” I ask as I wipe the back of my hand across my lips.

Had I done something wrong?

“Fuck,” he breathes, closing his eyes. Looking back down at me, he pats his lap. “Come up here.”

I smile in relief and eagerly obey, straddling him. His mouth is instantly on mine, his hands sliding down to grab my ass. Wrapping my arms around his neck, it feels as if I just can’t get any closer to him. Our bodies roll against each other, and by this point, my panties are completely ruined. I feel one of his hands trail up to my bra and unclasp it. He breaks the kiss to help me remove it completely. It joins the pile on the carpeted floor. 

Delving down, his plump lips latch onto one of my nipples. My back arches, giving him easier access, and I reach behind me to grab at his cock, stroking him as he sucks on me. My hips roll, seeking friction to ease the tension that is building.

“Jooheon!” I whimper.

“Ok, baby,” he murmurs as he moves to my other breast.

Though I had cum already, seeing him like this, hearing him like this, his mouth all over me, I was ready again for another.

“Please, Jooheon,” I plead.

I was so far gone that I didn’t care; I was begging. I wanted him, needed to feel him inside me so badly; I didn’t care how needy I sounded at the moment.

He chuckles before kissing me between my breasts. Leaning back, he hooks his finger on my underwear and snaps it against my skin.

“Take these off.”

I nod, scampering off of him to remove them in record time. I throw the sodden material into the darkness beyond, drawing another chuckle from Jooheon.

“Hush,” I chastise him playfully.

He leans over to grab his wallet from the bedside table and pulls out a condom. Dropping the wallet back on the table, he makes quick work slipping the rubber on. Jooheon coaxes me back to his lap. Spreading wide, I help him guide his dick to my entrance. We both let out blissful moans as I slowly slide down his length. The stretch has my eyes closing, and I can feel his hands digging into my sides. 

Bottoming out, we both take a moment to let me adjust to the intrusion. He peppers my chest with opened mouth kisses that have another layer of slickness coating my walls and his cock. I have never been so aroused in my life. I rock my hips and feel him twitch inside me, his hands tightening at my hips. I let my hands rest on his shoulders, using them to help me lift higher only to slowly grind down on him.

“Damn, baby,” Jooheon purrs.

He matches my rhythm, and we are both panting, drawing ever so close to the release we are both seeking. At first, his hands loosen at my hips, letting me lead. The more desperate we become, his hands grip fervently to my hips, helping me move faster over him. 

“God, that feels so good!”

I’m so close that I can barely focus. My walls constrict and release around Jooheon, and his head falls back. My hands slip behind his neck, my fingers gripping the strands there. His eyes widen, flitting to mine, and I feel him pulse inside me as a deep groan rumbles up from his chest. 

Fuck, that’s so hot! He is so close; I can feel it, as am I. I roll and rock my waist, taking him in deeper. One of his hand's snakes in between us. The pleasure intensifies as his fingers find my clit; my head falls back, and my eyes shut. It’s all so much.

“Look at me, baby,” Jooheon grits out.

“Jooheon,” I whimper as I struggle to comply. 

Meeting his gaze, I let out a moan at the sight of his fucked out face. Sweaty strands of hair cling to his forehead and temples, his cherry lips look completely ravished, and his own eyes are barely opened slits, but it’s enough. It’s enough for him to see me and know he’s got me just as whipped.

“Turn around for me, baby,” Jooheon urges.

Through my haze, I manage to get off of his lap. My limbs feel heavy, but I get on my knees and forearms anyway. His palm caresses my ass and gives it a gentle smack. Fuck, I think I’m going to lose my mind! Aligning his cock with my center, I don’t even have a moment to take a breath. He’s thrusting into my soaking wet cunt with no warning.

“Oh my God!”

I can feel a jolt of pleasure instantly tremble through me. In this new position, I can feel every inch of him. Each thrust feels so deep and tight I can only babble incoherent words and curses as I push back into him. I snake my hand between my legs and delve my fingers into the slickness there. I hiss at how swollen and sensitive my clit is. Instantly, the pleasure heightens.

“That’s it, baby,” Jooheon pants. “Touch yourself.”

Glancing over my shoulder, Jooheon bites down on his lip, and my fingers speed up. The visual and sensations are just too much, and the little bit of control I had been holding onto snaps.

“Fuck, Jooheon!”

My back arches as I clamp around his dick, my walls thrumming and contracting around him. Jooheon’s thrust quicken as he chases after his own ecstasy. My face falls onto the bed, my ass lifting higher. The angle brings him deeper still inside of me, and it’s enough to push him over the edge. A long deep groan falls from his lips as his eyes squeeze shut, the grip on my hips vice-like. His hips stutter up into me, and I can’t help but moan as I feel him pulse inside of me as he cums hard. 

My body feels like jelly, and it takes the last bit of energy I have to turn my head to face Jooheon as he collapses beside me. Jooheon’s smiling face is there to greet me, and I can’t help but return the gesture.

“Hey,” he grins as he scoots closer to me.

“Hey,” I murmur drowsily.

Brushing the hair from my face, he caresses my back tenderly before kissing my shoulder.

“Gotta clean up,” he winks at me, and I can’t believe I dare to blush after all we’ve done.

Burying my face in the comforter, I nod, and he laughs. I feel the bed shift and then hear the click of the bathroom light switch. Forcing myself up, I locate my bra and underwear. After putting on the bra, I slip on the underwear, wincing to find they were still slightly damp in the crotch area. Making my way to the bathroom as well, Jooheon is just washing his hands when I walk in. He gives my ass a pat as he walks out.

“Hey,” I swat his arm in feign annoyance, and he just laughs.

I use the toilet, clean myself up, then wash my hands and face. Rinsing my mouth with the sink water, I finally feel clean enough to go back into the room. Jooheon was under the comforter staring at the TV. That’s right. The movie was still playing. It was pretty late now. Was Jooheon expecting me to leave now that everything was finished? I eye my clothes that are currently on the bedside table instead of the floor. Hmmm. Was that a hint? I approach the pile and reach out for the shirt.

“Can you stay a little longer?” he asks.

I feel a flutter in my stomach.

“Are you sure?” I ask, the initial insecurities creeping back up.

“Yes,” he replies, pulling the comforter down for me to slide into.

What did I have to lose?

“Ok.”

I get in, and he throws the comforter over me.

“Come closer,” he whines.

He meets me part way. Opening his arms towards me, I slide into his embrace. Tucked in comfortably against his chest, the drowsiness pulls at my eyelids.

“Good night, Jooheon,” I yawn and snuggle into his warmth.

“Good night, Y/N,” he parrots, kissing my head.

What is that? I wonder groggily as a loud, incessant sound accosts my ears. I peel my eyes open just when Jooheon lets me go in order to lean over to grab his phone. Turning off the alarm, he groans in displeasure. Rolling back towards me, he pats my arm gently.

“Y/N, baby, you have to wake up.”

“Mmm,” I grunt with a pout and snuggle back into his chest.

I feel the bed shake with Jooheon’s amused chuckles.

“I have to get ready. We are flying out in a few hours.”

“Mmm,” I pout some more, but then I do sit up.

Throwing back the covers, Jooheon gets off the bed and turns on the bedside lamp. I crawl out after him and zombie-walk to my clothes and put them on. I fix my hair as best as I can, and then Jooheon walks me to the door. This had all felt like a dream for me, and I truly did not want it all to end already. Reaching for the door handle, I gasp when Jooheon pushes me flush against it instead, his lips latching onto me so fast my head spins. I wrap my arms behind his neck as I lift up on my tippy toes to press myself further into him.

“I wish I didn’t have to go yet,” he laments as he kisses down my neck. His hands squeeze at my ass as he grinds into me. I can barely think. Only moans and heavy breaths leave my lips. “I really had a great time.”

“Me, too,” I sigh out.

“I want more time with you,” he murmurs into my neck, “But I’m going to be late.”

“We def can’t have that,” I chuckle.

He drops a few more kisses on my lips before he pulls away.

“I hope we can do this again,” he smiles down at me, his dimples deepening.

“Well, you got my number, so,” I shrug, and he laughs.

“I’ll call you,” he nods.

“You’ll call me,” I repeat, my eyes flicking away to stare at his chest instead.

“I will,” Jooheon insists.

He pulls me gently away from the door.

“Ok,” I nod, trying to ignore the excited flutter in my heart.

He pecks my lips one last time. “Ok. I’ll see you, Y/N. Bye.”

“Bye.”

Jooheon opens the door for me, and I step out into the quiet hall. I don’t dare look back, and after a few paces, I hear the door click shut. I see the security table ahead, and Alex is still there, keeping watch with the other guard. He stands up, and I try to avoid eye contact.

“Enjoy the rest of your day, Ms. Y/LN,” he calls as I walk past.

Oh god! I think to myself as my body flushes from head to toe.

“Thanks, Alex,” I glance up quick enough to see the knowing smile on his face. There’s no judgment, but I still feel embarrassed suddenly. “Have a great day, too.”

I ride the elevator alone, and I am thankful. Peeking at my phone, I see it’s just about 4:15 in the morning. Jesus, I am going to be the worst passenger when my cousin and I start our four-hour drive home later today.

Entering our room quietly, I grab fresh underwear and my PJs and head into the bathroom to take a shower. I could still smell the powdery fresh scent of Jooheon on my skin, and I hated washing it away, but I get under the hot stream of the showerhead and scrub my body with my body wash until I was clean again. Dried up and dressed again, I tiptoe to my bed and quietly get under the covers. After making sure my alarm for ten am is still activated, I close my eyes and fall asleep.

“You look rough, girl,” my cousin laughs as we place our bags in the trunk of the car. “I hope Jooheon feels the same.”

I glare at her with a humph as we enter the vehicle. 

Buckling up, I admit, “I’m exhausted, my head is thumpin’ a little, and I just want to sleep for a hundred years.”

“Daammn,” she drags out the word as she pulls out of the hotel parking and onto the main road. “He wore you out that much, huh?” I let out an unladylike snort, and my cousin laughs. “So, tell me what happened. What’s he like?

“Well,” I try to fight off a smile, but my cheeks burn with the force of the grin that graces my lips. “He really is the sweetest, gentlemanly guy I’ve ever met….”

I spare no detail from the moment I stepped out of the elevator up to the moment when things got a little heated. 

“That Alex guy seems pretty cool,” she comments.

“Yeah,” I agree. “He made an awkward situation seem rather normal. Which is what makes me wonder how often they do that, you know, have people sign NDA’s?”

“Who knows,” she shrugs. “I wouldn’t be surprise if it’s quite often, and I wouldn’t be mad about it either. They are grown men, after all, and have their needs.”

“Yeah, I know,” I nod, looking out the window a bit distractedly. “It’s just; I don’t know, Jooheon said he’d call me… I just… my worry is that he goes to the next stop and hooks up with someone else… which he has every right to,” I rush to add. “I don’t know; I guess I just got my hopes up, and that’s my own fault.”

“No, I get it,” my cousin nods. “He said he’d call. Only time will tell if he makes good on that promise. It’s only been a few hours. No sense in stressing about it.”

“You’re right,” I concede. 

“In the meantime, let’s car karaoke!” she shimmies in her seat as she passes me her phone. “We got a long ass drive.”

I laugh but pull up our karaoke playlist, and we begin to sing. 

About two hours into our drive, there is a ping on my cell from an unknown number. I open up the message and gasp as my heart rate picks up. My cousin lowers the music.

“I think it’s him,” I whisper.

“Yeah?” she glances over quickly at me before returning her eyes to the road. “What’s it say?” 

UNKNOWN: I know I promised to call, but i’ve been busy. I finally had a minute while heading to do another interview. Did you get home, ok?

I read out the message and then ask, “Do you think it’s really him?”

“I mean, who else could it be?”

“Alex?” I deadpan.

“Alex?!” she bursts into laughter. “Say that to him and see what he says.”

ME: Who’s this?

UNKNOWN: Aish. Really? Who else can it be? Did you forget me already?

ME: Well, I have to be sure. For all I know, this could be Alex.

UNKNOWN: Alex? Who is Alex?

My cousin and I burst out into hysterical laughter. 

UNKNOWN: Are you talkin about security alex?

UNKNOWN: Why would it be him?

“Ooop,” my cousin purses her lips. “Ya boy’s getting jealous.”

“Stop, no he’s not.”

But I smile at the possibility of it.

ME: If this is really you, tell me something from last night (this morning)...

I watch the three little dots blink, disappear and then reappear before his message comes through.

UNKNOWN: We watched ‘Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.’

“Oh, yeah. It’s him,” I say after reading the message aloud.

UNKNOWN: better said it watched us😜

“If I had any doubts, he just squashed them,” I say as I pat my heated cheeks.

“What’d he say?”

“He says the movie actually watched us.”

“Ooooh, girl!” she smacks my shoulder. “That’s actually really hot.”

“Aggh, I’m so embarrassed.”

“Don’t be,” she reassures me. “Sex is natural, and if he’s making comments like that, he enjoyed his time.”

“I guess so….”

“You guess so?” She shakes her head. “I know so. Now reply to him before he thinks you are a prude.”

“Oh, Lord,” I roll my eyes playfully.

ME: Alright, you little flirt, I see it’s you. 

UNKNOWN: 😏

UNKNOWN:  Save my number. 

Me: Ok

Honey: I have a few interviews and practice, but I’ll be free around 1030 tonight. If you want to try watching the movie again I can call you.

ME: Really? We can do that?

Honey: I’m sure we can. We’ll figure it out.

Me: Ok. yeah. I’d like that.

Honey: We just got to the radio station. I gotta go. I’ll talk to you later.

ME: Bye

Putting my phone away, I look out at the highway flying by. This all felt like the best dream ever. Never did I ever imagine this would ever happen.

“Alright now,” my cousin brings my attention back to the moment. “You better do your makeup and put on a nice outfit tonight. But first, you should get some sleep as soon as we get home.”

I chuckle even as I give her an incredulous look.

“Why are you always trying to put me to bed?!”

“What?” she tries to plant a stoic expression on her face but cracks a smile instead.  “I’m just saying. You have no idea how long you will stay up this time.”

We both burst into raucous laughter, and I’m so grateful at least one of us is thinking properly because my mind is already racing. My mind is just blown at having the chance to get to know the real Jooheon. 

I don’t know how long this will go on, but I’m going to take a page from my cousin's book. I’m going to let myself enjoy it all while it lasts and not waste time on the what-ifs.

Mood board Credits

Shirtless Jooheon @ooom_xoooo

Couple

Bed sheets

Color squares