Running a few meters to catch up to him. Aaron didn’t stop along with you, but you quickly realize it wasn’t on purpose. As your hand grabs his elbow, he turns to watch you with innocent curiosity. He doesn’t mention the moment. And though you want to scold him - leaving your s/o behind is a no joking matter - the expression on his face makes you drop the topic. Aaron continues chattering about his day, so you listen, holding onto his arm just in case he doesn’t notice your departure next time.

Awkward glances. Aaron knows it’s not right, or at least how it should be, but he’s too confused to put thoughts into words. You, on the other hand, know he wants the best, which should be enough. The key word being should. When you’re brave enough, you return one of the stares. His first instinct is to retract, but just a look away has him thinking that perhaps it’s not the best course of action. Without a second glance, he reaches forward, to open the space by his side, just in case you decide you need it.

The lack of him in general. Neither your phone, nor your senses are graced by his presence. It’s as if he has never existed, and you’re close to believing that yes, indeed, he’s just a product of your vivid imagination. That he’s someone you’ve once dreamed about, or just a silhouette from family pictures, whose face is known, but ghostly. Days pass with you suffering from a heartache and that’s all he is - a ghost.

JR

Irritating pain in your eyes. The hour is late. The day’s effect is catching up to you. It’s too difficult to keep your eyes open. Jonghyun says something, but your clouded mind doesn’t catch a word. When you ask him to repeat, he just releases a good-natured laugh, as if your tragic state was a laughing matter. It’s his fault, after all. He’s the person responsible for keeping you awake past midnight. And even his adorable reaction to your sleepiness won’t correct his wrongdoings.

Holding his baseball cap, stunned that it’s the only thing of his you have that still smells of him. It’s weird to take comfort in something so... uncommon, but you’re too desperate at this point. The painful knowledge of him being away has you resorting to the strangest. Before the cap, you clung to his favorite yogurt. Before it, there was the shampoo he always uses. And though nothing has lasting effect, the moment of breathing in a familiar smell clears your head. Just a few seconds, but painless seconds.

Fingertips on your closed eyelids. Pressure on the lashes. Breath on your cheek. Coldness by your legs. Skin skimming against skin, only to disappear in a second. The hour must be late. A little concerned, you finally open your eyes. Jonghyun sighs in surprise. Like a deer caught in headlights, he’s frozen in his spot. Guilt strikes his features. He’s sure his carelessness woke you up. But who would be mad at the sweetest guy alive? If he can’t sleep, then so can’t you. That’s the verdict.

Small words of appreciation, you didn’t realize you needed. They always take you by surprise. One would think them an ambush, meant to bring Jonghyun a gift in the form of your embarrassed smile. But just a mention of his possible hidden intentions makes his face harden. How can you assume such vile things about his motives? All the compliments are genuine! Your embarrassment is just a bonus!

Being avoided. Though you lean forward to embrace him, Jonghyun turns away. His face is unreadable, empty. Your hands manage to lock around his waist in time, but they’re obviously unwelcome there. As if you were a virus, you’re rejected. Jonghyun stands stiff in your weak hold, wordless and emotionless. It hurts. It really hurts. You’re left with no other option, but to let him go. What he wants at the moment is not you. The only right course of action is to accept it.

BAEKHO

The plush of his lips on the back of your neck. It’s in a way restless - Dongho shows no sign of wanting to stop. His legs are settled around your hips, locking you in the embrace. There are things you should be doing instead of letting him lull you into sweet comfort, but he’s never once backed from an ambush. You may be trying to work, yet you do want him to take your mind off of the stress as well.

His silence. Mouth occupied by pancakes, Dongho doesn’t speak. Every then and now he just graces you with small noises of content. Their appearance is a spark of electricity, opening your mouth in a smile. Though your work doesn’t end at making him comfort food, the progress in lifting his spirits is still a success that should be celebrated. And so, you gift yourself with the continuation of staring at Dongho’s passionate eating habits. He’s too taken by the pancakes to notice it.

Fingernails scratching stitches on your jeans. He’s nervous, this much is obvious. The empty look on his face tells you that the thoughts have taken Dongho miles away, and none of your words will be registered by his mind. The scratching turns weaker for a moment as he glances at the clock. Its ticking seems to irritate him only more. Finally, you cover his hand with your own and Dongho smiles a little. You presence alone won’t save him, but it does give him a little bit of warmth and assurance, that at the end of the day, he’s not alone.

A little yelp of excitement, so inaccurate for a man built like Dongho. Though he’s more of a big bad wolf appearance-wise, his smiling face reminds you of a baby. He dances around the room, eyes bright and happy. None of the questioning looks you shoot his way are enough to grant you an answer. Dongho ignores your stares, until he finally grabs your hands to pull you along. For a long time he doesn’t explain what the hell is going on, but when he’s acting like that, you cannot just stop him. The questions have to wait.

How his fists tighten when he’s mad. Dongho doesn’t think about hiding them, he’s too taken by the all-consuming anger. It’s a normal thing to get frustrated, but somehow, seeing him mad is... different? You’re not used to the paling insides of his fingers, an effect of limited blood flow. You know he won’t do anything, it’s just his way of offloading, and yet, somewhere deep in your mind, you’re scared. Terrified, but of the possibility it will stay this way between you and him.

MINHYUN

Reaching for his hand when the moment feels vile. Minhyun, though not a fan of publicly displayed affection, doesn’t take his fingers away. They interlock with yours, grip quick to tighten in a comforting manner. The world instantly seems a little bit more bearable. As soon as you turn to look at him, Minhyun’s gaze meets yours. There’s a question whether you’re fine. Not wanting to have him worried any longer, you nod yes. With him, you’ll be fine.

The coldness of an ice pack. Your momentary lack of focus costed you pain and tears. Now Minhyun, taking the role of a house nurse, stands behind you, holding a bundle of ice cubes and using the moment to scold you. Because how dare you hurt yourself when he’s just a few steps away? How dare you not give him a chance to save you from the dangers of living? How dare you roll your eyes when he’s teaching you an important lesson of self-preservation? And don’t even think about whining at the coldness, it’s meant to freeze!

A laptop you have completely forgotten. Though Minhyun’s attention is all on you and he’s reaching lower your back, the sound of crashing electronics forces you apart. You take a look at his swollen lips before turning to search for the source of all commotion. Minhyun’s hands fall on your thighs, still not ready to let go completely. He doesn’t seem concerned about the noise. If anything, it’s the growing distance between the two of you that he’s wary of. When you sheepishly tell him that it’s his laptop that fell, he just grunts and then pulls you back.

Washing your hands when he encircles you from behind. Minhyun’s head rests on your shoulder, meanwhile his fingers cover yours under the stream of running water. He doesn’t speak. There’s no need, you know he expects you to wash his hands as well. It’s a little thing you have a habit of spoiling him with. As you silently comply, Minhyun laughs, chest trembling against your back. Though you can’t see, you can feel his gaze on your profile.

A heavy gaze. One that pushes you down, until you’re flat against the ground, trembling in fear, because you’re its object. Minhyun won’t say a word, but he watches, as if he was feeding on your terror. But how can someone be vicious enough to put a boot on your lungs and remain silent, indifferent to the tortures they’re putting you through? Of course, he’s awaiting a grand apology, but even tired, breathless from the anger olympics, you don’t want to relent. Not when he’s not free of his own wrongdoings.

REN

The stark shape of his nose, digging itself into your cheek. Minki is trying to get a reaction out of you, but while doing so, he only causes you a meltdown inside. Instead of a grimace, he’s rewarded with a sweet smile. Minki wants to push your buttons more, the soul of a troublemaker is chewing his ear off, and yet he gives up. It doesn’t go past your attention - his defeated, but genuine smile is a sight to behold.

Delicate skin you are allowed to touch. Minki’s facing away from you, either moaning or whining, depending on what nerve you’re currently crunching. Few times he tries to swat your hands away, but you’re not that easily scared by his threats. They can’t be serious. When he makes a sarcastic comment about your great massage techniques, you act dumb and dig where it hurts him. Minki scowls, but gives up, promising he won’t open his mouth again. A few minutes is how long he can go without uttering a word.

The moment he forgets himself in the feeling of being close. Minki’s hot breath is blowing at your lips, and though you anticipate a kiss, it’s never placed. It’s as if some greater being has stopped the time for him, imprisoning Minki in the pose. Having him so close is heavenly, but just as happy as you are, the need to laugh overpowers. His eyes open at the sound, surprised. Once again, he returns to the body of a born teaser.

A pair of gloves, thrown at you seemingly out of annoyance. At least that’s what’s written on Minki’s face. Annoyance, because you’re forgetful enough to hurt yourself in the cold season. Stiff fingers have trouble putting the material on. You hesitate. Is it really okay for you take the gloves? Minki gave you them himself, but sometimes we hurt ourselves for others. It’s a reminder that he cares a lot, no matter how much of trouble he’s brought you. Or how deep is the frown on his features.

The face of disinterest. You hate it with burning passion. It’s his way of telling you that things aren’t alright between the two of you. That he feels distaste, as if he was staring at a plate of mold. Minki’s words are cold, pulled straight out of freezing temperatures. They make your back stiffen, eyes glaze over, hands tighten their grip. You want to disappear, melt away and seep through the ground to mix with the depths. Maybe then you wouldn’t have to suffer at the hands of his indifferent facial expression.

➛ pollenat’s list of headcanons

➛ pollenat’s list of shorts

➛ pollenat’s list of scenarios

ARON

“Good night-” *the sound of lips smacking* “Hm? Oh- You’re home late.” “Yes.” *pause* “Sorry. I woke up you up in the process, didn’t I?” “Just come here already and let me sleep!” “Coming, coming.” “You said coming, but you’re leaving.” “I’ve got to wash.” “Wash in the morning then. It’s too cold to be alone in the bed.” “I’m-” “No excuses. Come on.”

“Aaron?” *sigh* “No, I’m not sleeping.” “I didn’t ask whether you were sleeping.” “Will you get to the point then?” *silence* “Do you think I’m funny?” *shuffling* “Wha- Why are you asking whether you’re funny?” “I don’t know, just want to know what you think.” “Huh, well. You are funny.” “Very convincing.” “Wait, (y/n)! Don’t be mad! You just took me by surprise!” “Well, you should be ready even for surprises!”

“Are you falling asleep?” “No, no. I’m not-” “Yes, you were! Mister, this movie is a cultural reset and you’re falling asleep on it!” “Oh, let it go, won’t you? I’ve seen it. Like ten times or something. Need I remind you the many times you’ve played it already?” “I’m doing you a favor. This is the highest form of education.” “I’ve already finished school.” “Not the school of life, no.” “Life? This is The School of Rock, not Schindler’s List!”

“Had a nightmare, huh? Don’t look so scared, it wasn’t for real. Just go back to sleep.”

“Can you stop?” “I’m not doing anything.” “Yes, you are. I can see. Stop being passive aggressive.” “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” *sigh* “Just stop, (y/n). Talk to me instead. It’s not healthy to hold back emotions.” “I didn’t ask for a session with psychologist.” “But you’re dating me, so you kind of signed up for it.” *silence* “Hm? Come on. Tell me. I’m listening ”

JR

“There’s a 5.” “Ah, I see.” *pause* “Oh, a 4! Can you see it?” “-You’re right.” “There’s only one missing in this square. It’s nine, obviously.” “Will- Are you going to solve my Sudoku for me?” “I wanted to play with you-” “Babe, Sudoku is a single player game. Get your own phone!” “No, thank you. I don’t want to play anymore since you’re being such a meanie.” “Jonghyun!”

“Aren’t you going to sleep?” *yawning* “Hm?” “You’re awake.” “Ah, yes. I suppose I can’t really fall asleep.” “Why?” “I don’t know. I just can’t.” “Hm.” *a long pause* “Do you want to do something? We can play on the console.” “Thanks, but don’t worry about me. Go to sleep.” “I can’t sleep when you can’t sleep.” *shuffling* “Come on, let’s play a round or two.” *pause* “... or three?” “Or three."

“Are you still eating that?” * pause* “Yes, why? Jonghyun, I’m not giving you the rest of my noodles! You had yours.” “Yeah, I just wanted to make sure...” *longer pause* “Are you really that hungry?” *sigh* “Okay, now I’m full. Take this. And stop making the eyes at me! I could’ve just made you more.” “But I’m not that hungry. And I shouldn’t be eating so late at night...” “You-” *sigh* “You’re a baby, is what you are.”

“You’re such a cuddlebug.” *pause* “Good for me, I guess.”

“You’re so distant lately. What’s wrong?” “Sorry.” “You don’t have to apologize. I’m not mad at you.” *shuffling* “I just want to help. Maybe there’s a way-” “I don’t think so.” *silence* “Oh.” *more silence* “Well, that’s alright. You can still tell me? You can’t?” *sigh* “I suppose it’s not my place to be pushy about your problems. Just know that I’m here. I want to be here for you, okay?”

BAEKHO

“(y/n). (y/n)?” “Mhm?” “Are you awake?” “Yes... I think? What’s up?” “I can’t sleep.” “And therefore I’m not allowed to either?” *pause* “Ugh. You know what? Forget I ever said anything.” *pause* “Okay, I’m sorry. Don’t be mad at me! Dongho!” *pause* “Dongho!” *shuffling* *a snicker* “I knew it. You always come back.”

“Ugh! Let me go Dongho!” “What? Why?” “You’re too hot!” “Well, thank you? I am aware of that. I just don’t know what my appearance has to do with us spooning.” “I wasn’t talking about your- your everything. I meant hot as in temperature-wise.” “I’m sharing my body warmth with you and this is how you repay me? By scolding? I worked hard for this!” “I’m going to suffocate!” “Stop being a grump. Just push the duvet off. Some of us have to sleep.”

“What do you think?” “Sounds super cool. I only don’t understand why flames?” “Why not?” “They’re pretty overused, don’t you think?” “Why would I care for that? They’re supposed to show my internal fire.” “Eww. You’re so sleazy.” “Don’t I have an internal fire?” “How am I supposed to know?” *pause* “Don’t raise your eyebrows at me!” “How are you supposed to know? For real, (y/n)?” “This conversation is officially over.”

“Your face is so weird when you’re sleeping. Good thing I love you.”

“Are you really going to spend the night on the couch?” *silence* “Dongho, don’t be ridiculous. Just because we fought earlier doesn’t mean you have to avoid me so much.” *still silence* *sigh* “If you’re going to ignore me then at least come to bed for yourself. In the morning you’ll be sore. The couch sin’t comfortable enough.” *pause* “Dongho, I’m serious.” “Goodnight.” *deep sigh* *feet padding against the floor*

MINHYUN

“I like the sound of rain.” “Me too.” *a long pause* “Tell me about your day.” *shuffling* “Wouldn’t you rather continue listening to the rain?” “I like your voice more than the sound of rain.” “Oh- Okay. That’s very smooth of you. Got me feeling a little bit flustered, not gonna lie.” “I know. Just don’t melt on me.” “I already started melting.” “First tell me about your day, like I asked you to.” *sigh* “Alright.”

“You need to leave me alone, mister.” “Hm? Why?” “That’s too evil.” “What’s so evil?” “You’re too cute and my poor small heart can’t take this anymore.” *snicker* “Too funny. You’re too funny.” “No, I’m being just dead honest.” “Go to sleep, (y/n). I can’t handle you right now.” “Good, because I can’t handle you either.” *snickering*

*sniffing* “Minhyun?” “Yes?” *more sniffing* “Are you- smelling me?” “Yes.” *again, sniffing* “Minhyun. Why are you smelling me?” “Your smell- It’s different.” “Oh, you’ve noticed?” “I mean- Yeah?” “Do you like it?” “I suppose? It’s- It’s different. I don’t think I’ve made up my mind yet.” “Ah, you’re a master at making hearts flutter.” “So I’ve been told?”

“Sorry I’m back so late. We’ll spend more time together soon. I promise.”

“I just wanted you to apologize. Is that so much?” “Are we getting back into it? I’m tired.” *a long pause* “You’ve never- explained, what I did wrong.” “I did. So many times. And you just didn’t listen.” “That- If you did then how come I’m still unaware of what I did wrong?” “As I said - that’s because you don’t listen!” “(y/n), I don’t want to get back into the argument, so stop being pushy about it.” *pause* “You know what - whatever.”

REN

“Hey.” “Yes?” “Why are you hanging out so much with Minhyun lately?” “Are you jealous? He’s just a friend, Minki. You’ve got nothing to worry about.” “Yes, I do. He’s my friend and you’re stealing him!” “He’s my friend too!” “I know him much better!” “Yeah? Well, I don’t annoy him as much as you do!” “I do not annoy him!” “Yes, you do! He told me.” “He wouldn’t!”

“What’s with you today?” “What do you mean?” “You’re never this cuddly! Do you want something? Is that it?” “I’m just cuddling you, (y/n)! I’m not offering you a suspicious package to smuggle.” “Yeah, but coming from you it is suspicious.” “Stop accusing and just love me!”

“Do you have any questions?” “Yes, one.” *humming* “What’s in it for me?” “What’s in it for- Are you kidding me? I’m asking you to do me a favor! Me, your boyfriend, or have you forgotten?” “Yes, but you want me to go out and buy you snacks, because you’re too lazy.” “-because I want you to do me a favor. In other words, I want to help you be a better person.” “Whatever you say, Minki.” “What is that supposed to mean?” “That I reject your offer.” “(y/nnn)-” “I can go with you, but not instead of you, you big baby! And don’t try to charm me! I know your ways.” “I’ve created a monster...”

“Can’t believe you’ve fallen asleep without telling me goodnight! Cute ungrateful brat.”

“Minki?” *silence* “Are you still mad at me? Really?” “Wh- Did you just hit me with a pillow?” “Yes. And? You were ignoring me.” “Because I’m mad at you!” “Then stop. I’ve suffered enough.” “And what about my suffering?” “Your suffering doesn’t matter as of now.” “Wow. You really-” “Stop frowning and come for cuddles!” *a deep sigh* “You- You- Ah, whatever.”

➛ pollenat’s list of headcanons

➛ pollenat’s list of shorts

➛ pollenat’s list of scenarios