#yourandromeda

December 24th

You haven’t seen Jeongin for the past week. You feared the worst, that he might actually got fired because of you. Because of your reckless advise that he took to the heart and now he no longer wanted to see you. But a couple days after your impromptu peptalk, a new intern entered your coffee shop and once he asked for the order you happily scribbled Jeongin’s name on one of the paper cups.

So he made it, you sighed to yourself with a relief when it happened. However, you couldn’t really shake off that eerie feeling you felt in your chest with his lack of visits. You thought you were close enough for him to tell you… to come running to you about the promotion but maybe you have mistaken his advances. Maybe he is just generally nice to catering employees and all this was just in your head.

It’s Christmas Eve tonight and as there was nothing else for you to do, you agreed to take on the morning shift yourself. Luckily, you close at one in the afternoon, so you still have plenty of time to go home and celebrate with your family.

The cafe is quieter than usual. You take it as a good sign that in this corporal area, where mostly offices work, there are only a handful of people who spend their holidays working here. The door jingles for about the third time that day, not much earlier before closing and you spin around to greet the incoming guest with the utmost cheerfulness. 

As Jeongin steps into the cafe, his attire makes you speechless on the spot. He has a long coat on with casual clothes, something that you thought you would never have the privilege of seeing him in. However, the most shocking part isn’t his outfit, but the huge box he is holding, neatly packaged in wrapping paper with a bow on it. “Merry Christmas.” 

“Merry Christmas to you, too.” you respond, smiling in amazement. “You shouldn't have… what is this?”

“You should open it to see.” He chuckles cheekily before handing you the present. “Why are you working on Christmas? Are you aiming for that promotion?”

“I'd love to say I do.” you roll your eyes, taking the box and placing it on the counter. “God, it's so big.” you huff as you place the box on a table, the one you sat by with him just a week ago. “I'm afraid I'm just a loser who has no one to spend Christmas with.” you explain with a chuckle as you start to unwrap your present.

“Well, that makes the two of us.” he smiles fondly, watching your movements. “I’m sorry I wasn't coming by but the company made me work tirelessly.” he chuckles. 

“Oh, love, please don't burn yourself out.” you say, glancing up at him and he is already watching you. There's so much adoration in his gaze… it makes your heart race. You finally open the present, and it's a thick coat, black and soft with padding. Also looking incredibly expensive. “Innie! Gosh, you really shouldn't have! I cannot-”

“We worked hard for that.” he grins. “I got the PR position and without you I wouldn't have gotten a raise. You deserve it.” he smiles. “Besides, you need something warm to the Christmas open-air-concert we are going to.” he adds, taking out two tickets from his coat’s pocket.

You are speechless for a second before you jump in his arms happily. Hugging his neck, you feel his arms wrap around you, and gosh, your heart is going to explode. “You did so well. I'm so proud of you.” you whisper.

“I couldn't have done it without you!” he admits, burying his face in the crook of your neck before spinning you around in his arms. “I was also thinking, if you might be free… it's kind of late to ask you though but… the office party is on the 25th and I was wondering if you’d like to join me as my date?” he finally blurbs out.

You pull back to look at his cute face, all blushed and warm and smiling at you beautifully. “That sounds like a great time. I'm in.”

“Oh, thank god it would have been embarrassing to turn up alone, after all I gushed about you to everyone.” he chuckles, booping your nose and still holding you.

“Stop being so cute!” you squeal and squeeze him in the hug. You generally don't believe in Christmas miracles… but this one, it can hardly be called anything else. “I think I might have annoyed Ryujin by always talking about you, too…”

“Is this why you are all on your own today?” he jokes with a playful glint in his eyes. “When do you finish? I can help you close up.”

“I am done for the most part, actually.” you grin and there is a moment of silence before you speak. “Do you think… would it be okay if I kissed you?”

“I think I should be kissing you.” he hums after a second of thinking, and he leans in to kiss you finally.

You giggle in the kiss, tugging him closer because you want to feel his whole being in the kiss. And oh, you do. He might look young and innocent, but Jeongin is an amazing kisser. He picks up on your rhythm in a second, and the way he kissed you makes your knees go weak.

He seems to catch on all your little movements and he grabs your waist to keep you grounded. Your tongues dance, lips melting against each other as they do. You are like water and fire, complementing each other perfectly.

“Innie…” you pull back breathlessly, because you feel like he could go on forever.

“Yeah.” he chuckles sheepishly but without any regrets. “Let’s close up and have lunch?”

“I'd like that very much.” you say, kissing his nose. “And then, you are coming over to help me pick an outfit for the party.”

“Yep, exactly what I had in mind.” he grins cheekily, his eyes resembling a fox. You slap his arm as you step back to close up the counter while Jeongin picks up a broom and gets to work as well. You wonder how on earth did you get so lucky…

December 25th

You are not sure what to expect from this Christmas party. You have attended a number of such parties before, of course, but this one feels different somehow. Being on the organizing committee, you are kind of expected to take credit for all the hard work that went into the decoration, catering and planning of the night… which you aren't sure you deserve.

Granted, you've been a little distracted. With the emotional rollercoaster of the past weeks, you wouldn't blame anyone for not having their head in the game, but of course, you do blame yourself. You just can't seem to get over the fact that you were one step away from happily ever after… until it disappeared with a disappointing poof.

“Yo, everything alright?” Jisung asks as he stops by your side. He looks gorgeous, even more so than usual. He is wearing a red shirt with tight, black jeans and his signature chunky boots, and a goofy, Grinch-esque clip-on tie around his neck. He looks effortlessly gorgeous and you would prefer not to look at him… it just makes it all harder.

“Peachy.” you hum, but you undeniably check him out from head to toe before looking away. “Kind of feeling bad for leaving all the work for Felix and his soulmate.” you admit as you glance over to the couple, snacking at the chocolate fountain.

“Oh, that. Yeah.” Jisung says in a mutter. He hasn’t really thought about that. “But they love these things! Look at them, I am sure they would’ve never taken the extra step if it wasn’t for the organizing shenanigans. And for my genius advice, of course.”

“Yeah, what would we do without you?” you ask with a sad sigh. “Do you wanna get some champagne?”

“Duh, let’s get fucked up!” Jisung grins at you and takes your hand in his, tugging you along to the table with the drinks. You run into Chan and his significant other, the latter sipping some wine, the former pouring some hot chocolate for himself.

“Are you the designated driver?” you ask Chan playfully as you reach them, holding Jisung’s hand tighter, not wanting him to let go.

“No, I'm pregnant.” he jokes as he clings his glass with his significant other’s. “Just kidding.” he says and he seems to be much more relaxed and laid-back. He is pretty cool, compared to the ball of stress you see him as in the office.

“You guys have been together forever, I wouldn’t be surprised if you were.” Jisung says with a sweet smile, and he also pours some drinks for the two of you. “No pressure, though. You are young and have your whole life ahead!” he adds, and you bite back a smile. Yeah, definitely an expert on love.

“I promise, you will be the first to know.” his significant other chuckles and they gently touch Chan’s arm. “Can you take this for me? I have to use the bathroom.”

“Sure thing.” he smiles oh so fondly before exchanging a quick peck on the lips and taking their drink.

“Could you guys keep a secret?” Chan asks suddenly when his significant other is out of hearing distance.

“Oh we love secrets!” you gasp, leaning in eagerly.

“I am very good at keeping them.” Jisung nods solemnly. “Wait, are you actually-”

“No, Jisung.” Chan rolls his eyes but he can't bite back his grin. “I’m going to propose to them in Paris.” he announces in a hushed tone before taking out a box from his inside pocket.

“Oh my god, it's beautiful!” you compliment as he opens the box and shows off a shiny ring. He must have been saving up… and he is proposing in Paris? So romantic!

“Oh, mate, congrats! That’s like, the most romantic thing ever.” Jisung says excitedly, and did you imagine it or did he actually glance at you just now?

“Thank you.” he chuckles, looking between the two of you. “I hope they say yes.” he wonders before slipping the ring back in his pocket. “What are your plans for the future?”

“O-our?” Jisung asks, glancing at you. “Well, we plan on getting drunk tonight, spending the holidays at home, and then probably New Year’s- oh, shit, right, I forgot to tell you, I’m throwing a party on New Year’s! Please come?” he asks you with big, puppy eyes. With everything going on, he sorta just expected that you would always be around… no party is perfect without you.

You are quite taken aback, as you always are by Jisung’s sudden outbursts. You try your best to not get hurt at the fact that he forgot to invite you up until now.

“I will think about it.” you respond instead. Maybe you should go on a dating site and forget about your feelings for Jisung, you think. Soon enough, Chan’s significant other returns from the bathroom and they start being cute and lovey-dovey in no time. You long to have what they have…

“Everyone is so in love.” Jisung also notes, looking around to spot Seungmin and his sweetheart gushing over a photo album, Jeongin and his date dancing to the cheesy Christmas song that’s playing, and Minho… well.

“You can’t eat more pudding than me. Do you even know me?” Minho scoffs, watching his partner in crime with a grimace but you can tell they are holding hands under the table.

“Oh yeah? Is that a challenge?” they question him with a cocked brow.

“Good to see that some things never change.” you chuckle at the sight of the two.

“What? You couldn't seriously think that we will be like Chan and his significant other.” the partner in crime chuckles.

“I wouldn’t dare.” Jisung says, a shiver running down his spine. Seeing Minho so whipped… that sounds terrifying.

“What are the two of you up to, now that the Christmas party is done?” Minho asks, watching the two of you intently.

Why does everyone assume there is anything going on? “Getting drunk. Enjoying the party.” you shrug. “What about you two?”

“Vengeance.” your colleague says from Minho’s side before they exchange a devilish grin.

“Oh no. One Minho was terrifying enough, now there is two?!” Changbin sighs from a few chairs away, sipping his eggnog, arm around his lover’s shoulders.

“Ew, don't compare us!” Minho’s partner in crime frowns.

“They really are the same. You were right.” Changbin’s lover chuckles, patting his cheek gently.

“I’m always right, baby.” Changbin says with a handsome grin, leaning in to press a kiss on their lips.

Jisung shakes his head sadly, pointing fingerguns at the two. “Another one.” he says and bites in his bottom lip as the textbook example of a sad fuckboy.

“Don’t do that.” you giggle, pushing him a tiny bit as the alcohol seeps in your brain. “We can at least count on Hyunjin…” you start but when you search for him, you find him looking at his roommate with fond and loving eyes, holding their hand tight and caressing their knuckles with his thumbs. “I'll take that back.” you whine.

“It looks like it's only you two who couldn't find a date for this party.” Seungmin materializes from thin air, making Jisung jump.

“Holy sh- you are so freaking creepy sometimes!” Jisung whines, and realizes only a second later that he took your hand in fear. He lets go quickly, clearing his throat. “Well, unlike you overly romantic folk, we don't need a date, right?” he asks, looking at you. “We have each other. That's better than any date.”

“Jesus.” you mutter under your breath. “You are so… unbelievable sometimes.” you huff, anger fuming through your body due to the pain of rejection. “Excuse me. I have to go to the restroom.” And with that, you are off.

“You are very dense, aren't you?” Seungmin scoffs. Jisung is frozen in his tracks, blinking after you as you disappear in the bathroom.

“What’s going on?” Hyunjin arrives, holding his better half's hand while the other is planted in his suit jacket.

“I- have no idea.” Jisung says as he looks around his friends. “Did I say something wrong?”

“You’ve only been saying the wrong things.” Seungmin explains. “You should take a hint from Jeongin. He got himself a date in a month and you have been pining for how long exactly?”

“Around two years.” Jisung says absently before he blinks up at Seungmin. “Wait- how did you-”

“Jisung, honey, everyone knows.” Minho’s partner in crime says.

“I think you should thank Felix for putting up with your dumbassery for the past month because if I were him, I probably would've locked the two of you in a storage room until you confess.” Minho says nonchalantly.

At that, Jeongin, who has just sat down with his date, turns to them with wide eyes. Jisung stares at him, shaking his head slowly.

“I don't think that would have helped, hyung.” Jeongin chuckles nervously, stuffing his mouth with a Christmas cookie.

“You little-” Jisung mutters before he meets Minho's eyes.

“Go after them, Hannie.” he says softly, and wow, is he dying or something? Why is Minho not calling him an idiot? “Don't be an idiot.”

“Ah, yeah, okay.” Jisung says, taking a deep breath and starting towards the door which leads to the bathrooms.

“Do you guys think he will be okay?” Changbin’s lover asks.

“He is a smart boy, despite everything you've just witnessed.” Changbin says with a smile, pressing a kiss on their cheek. “They've been like this forever… it's high time one of them made a move.”

Jisung runs into you as you are about to return, having forgotten your phone on the booze table. Just your luck… and now, you are staring at the face you've been trying your hardest to ignore, or at least find it in yourself to not care about.

“Oh- I was just… about to go looking for you.” Jisung says and you watch him nervously chew down on his bottom lip.

“I told you, I went to the bathroom.” you sigh tiredly. “What? You couldn't stand all the couples any longer?”

“No, that's not it…” Jisung mutters, eyes running around your face. Is it really possible that he has been ignoring all the signs so far? “Actually… I wanted to see if you are okay. Because I, well, I care about you.”

As a friend would, you remind yourself. “I’m okay, don't worry.” you sigh and bite your tongue. “We shouldn't hang out this much.” However, the words still roll off your tongue despite your best efforts.

Jisung's eyes grow wide, almost comically so, and he is at a loss for words for a second. “... what? Why?!”

“Because!” you whine, not really wanting to explain how embarrassingly in love you are with him. “If we keep hanging out, we might never have the chance to find a new love.”

“Then don't!” Jisung exclaims. In the shocked silence, he looks just as surprised that he said that as you are. “I mean! You are wonderful and truly one of the coolest people I know! And you deserve true love more than anyone I've ever known! And if it is with someone else, well, that has to be fine with me because I fucked up my own chance already.” he says and his face is gradually turning more and more miserable.

“Jisung, slow down and rewind.” you shut your eyes as you think back of what he said. “You haven't ruined your chances. It just doesn't make sense, why do I give you all these chances when you are clearly not interested in me.” you pout.

Jisung closes his eyes, trying to recompose himself. His mind is doing the thing again where he is letting his stream of consciousness flow without making any sense.

“Guys?”

You both look up to see all your friends watching the two of you, with Felix pointing at you. No, not at you, something above you.

“Oh.” is all Jisung can say as you both stare at the mistletoe sneakily hanging over your heads.

“Oh.” you mirror him, fidgeting with your fingers.

“Took you long enough to stand here.” Felix's soulmate chuckles.

“They trapped us on purpose.” Jisung says, looking at you with a little smile and he is fidgeting with his fingers. “So, uhm… it would be rude not to follow the tradition.” he says in a small, hopeful voice. “Do you think I could… kiss you maybe?”

All air is knocked out of your chest at his question as you stare at each other. Jisung's eyes are filled with hope and worry while your own heart picks up a deafening pace.

“Yes.” is all you mutter and out of the corner of your eye you can see Felix’s soulmate grabbing his hand and dragging him away to give you privacy.

And with that, Jisung plucks up all the courage he has left in him to lean in and press a kiss on your lips. The angle is a little awkward at first, but once you kiss him back, he seems to remember how to move his hands and he places one on your cheek, the other on your waist to pull you closer.

You grab onto his shirt as you pull him flat against your chest, the two of you now fully making out and you swear you can feel yourself levitating. He must feel it too because he holds onto you tighter, worried that you might slip out of his hold if he isn't careful enough.

“Oh my gosh, look away.” Jeongin's date tells him and covers his eyes with a chuckle.

It makes Jisung come back to his senses, and he reluctantly pulls away. You are glad to see you had a similar effect on him as he did on you, because his breathing is shallow and he can't wipe that cute, dumb little smile off his face.

“Holy shit.” he mutters, giggling and holding you tightly against him. “You like me back.”

“Of course I like you, dumbass!” you gasp, hitting his chest. “You could have asked, you know! I had a crush on you since my first day here.”

“You mean we could've been doing this for 2 years?!” he asks and his cheeks are bright pink now. “But- you can't just walk up to the new person on their first day like hi, you are gorgeous, wanna make out? Even though I very much wanted to, but was told I shouldn't!”

“Who told you that?” you chuckle at his honesty, drawing little circles on his chest.

Jisung instinctively glances at Minho who is trying to hide behind his glass of wine. “Doesn't matter.” he shakes his head before he cups your cheeks with both hands. “All that matters is that you don't find me weird for being in love with you.”

“God.” you blush and lean in his cold palms. “No. If you agree to not find me weird for being in love with you too.”

“Oh.” Jisung says and his grin grows unbelievably wider, eyes disappearing almost completely and you have never loved anyone more. “No, I think that's pretty convenient then.” he says before pulling you in for another kiss.

You giggle into the kiss, hugging him tight as the two of you make out.

“Your plan worked.” Felix's soulmate giggles cutely, playing with his hand.

“Yeah, let's pretend this wasn't the backup plan of the backup plan.” Felix grins and he presses a kiss on their forehead. At the end of the day, he was right. This is the best Christmas ever.

December 11th

Changbin hates to do this. He really, really does but he cannot shake the weird feeling in his stomach. He is almost sure he is wrong, though… time to find out.

“Babe?” he asks where he is packing out the takeaway boxes from their bag. He is not a fan of pad thai, but she always convinces him to get dinner from the weirdest (and most expensive) places.

“Yeah, baby?” she asks back, lighting a candle on the table. 

“I have been doing a little calculating…” he says slowly, taking a glance at her. She isn't looking at him, and he takes it as a good sign. “And I've realized we have a little less left for the holidays than I originally thought.”

“Oh, how come?” she turns around, tilting her head. 

“I don't know… I was completely sure we had some on my spare card, the prepaid one?” he says, and she looks clueless as ever. “I think I should cancel that card. Someone must have stolen the details and now they’re using it.”

“Now, don’t make rushed decisions like that, boo.” she chuckles nervously, stepping to him and placing her hands around his arm. “I’m sure that no one stole the card. You must have used it and forgot it in the haze of the holidays.” she waves him off. “Besides, you would be able to ask for money from your parents, wouldn’t you?”

“Well, I would, but I don't need it.” he says with a frown. “We are not completely broke, we will just have to watch how much we spend now. Good thing we have ordered the food for the holidays in advance.” he smiles at her as he carries the food to the table. His girlfriend still has a sour expression on her face, so he goes on.

“Hey, don't worry, okay? We don't need money to be happy together, do we?”

“Well, I guess not.” she huffs. “But how will I have an outfit for Christmas and the New Years this way? I need at least 3 for the holidays and if we visit your parents then 4.” she explains with an exasperated sigh. “I need accessories for it, too.” 

“Thought we already got all of it last week.” Changbin says, caressing her arm. “When we spent a smaller fortune in that designer shop… remember that blue dress? It looked amazing on you.” 

“Yes, that was one dress.” she counters. “I was planning to surprise you with some more.” she pouts, poking his cheek. 

“You don't need to.” Changbin says, pulling her in to kiss her cheek. “I like it most when you don't wear anything anyway.” he whispers to her with a chuckle. “How about I get the card blocked and then we take this to the bedroom?”

“No!” she breaks down, pushing him away. “That is my card!” she screams at him hysterically.

“It's- what?” Changbin asks and his eyes grow in shock. What did just happen…?

“I was using that card.” she sighs dramatically. “I figured since it’s prepaid, you wouldn’t mind and it was my spending card… clearly you wanted me to have it, otherwise why would you keep it?”

“Jesus, and you didn't think of telling me? I've been trying to figure out who is taking all the money for a week now!” Changbin exclaims. “Why didn't you tell me? And what did you buy anyway? I thought we got everything together this month? From my actual credit card?”

“I needed some shoes and gifts so that they will look better under the tree.” she exclaims. “It was a necessity and an emergency!” 

“You should’ve asked me!” Changbin tells her and then, it hits him. “You- I think you should give my card back.”

“What? Why?” she gasps, clutching her purse defensively. “I have to pay for your gift tomorrow…” she lies and Changbin knows she didn't have anything planned for him. She always said she isn't good with gifts.

“Okay, then I will go with you and pay for it.” Changbin says, not backing down. He is losing his patience now and that’s really not like him.

“But, baby…” she smiles, touching his arm to distract him with her looks.

“No.” Changbin says, taking a step back. “I need to go.” he turns on his heels and grabs his coat from the hanger.

“Where are you going, honey?” she rushes after him, batting her lashes. “Come back! I will put on my cutest lingerie for you.” 

“Don't wait up for me.” he says, and closes the door right before she could follow him.

In a few minutes, he is sitting in his car, driving on the streets of the city without an destination in mind. He has always found comfort in driving around, it clears his head better than any walk he could take.

He doesn't want to think about all the red flags; all the times his friends told him to beware of gold diggers, all the returned birthday presents that just “weren't the right color”, all the vacations overseas… he should've known better. Not because he has dealt with countless people who wanted to use him for money, but because of the ones who didn't.

He thinks about you. You, who were happy to receive a hand-drawn card for you birthday from him. You, who cooked for him when the fridge in the dorms was empty. You, sweet, selfless you whom his mother always adored.

Before he knows it, he is parked in a small, dark parking lot, and he doesn't take a second to realize where he is. He knows the place so well he could find his way here without trying.

It was your place, the two of you. You showed him this hidden little underground bar in the outskirts of the city, looking cold and untrustworthy on the outside but once you enter, it is warm and cozy. The exact opposite of his current relationship, he thinks bitterly as he walks in.

There is some quiet music in the background of friendly chatter and hearty laughs from the few desks in there, and it comforts Changbin instantly. He walks up to the counter to order some juice – he still needs to drive home – and he is ready to find a seat when-

There you are. Sitting at your usual table, holding something that looks like a mug of sweet mulled wine, watching him.

“Fancy seeing you here.” You call out with a sweet, comforting smile that makes his heart flutter. You pat the seat next to you and he walks over with the brightest smile that you adore so much.

December 20th

Tomorrow is Hyunjin’s deadline. For the past two weeks, you have been going on dates every single day. Most of the time he complained about it, but you’d liked to believe that he secretly enjoyed it. What you didn’t know, however, was that he was fuming, having realized that he has feelings for you. 

Hyunjin wasn’t the type of guy to fell in love easily. He always told you that he would never settle, that he will stay single cause no one can treat him the way he treats himself. He acted tough, like someone who is not interested in romance, but every once in a while you caught him shedding a couple of tears on romantic movies, or reading romance novels in the bookstore only for him to wave it off and flatout deny his interest. Hyunjin was romantic, hopelessly at that but it took him years to realize it’s all because of you.

You were there for him at his lowest, supported him through thick and thin and he molded his expectations around you to the point where if it weren’t you, he wasn’t interested. You were slowly engulfing him, fogging up his mind, made him completely blind to anyone else’s advances. He absolutely hated it. It was killing him to know that he had the potential to ruin the trust and love that the of you built through the years.

His mind kept racing alongside his heart when he looked at you. You were so effortlessly beautiful and perfect in his mind, he scolded himself for not realising sooner. It was just another “date”, the two of you were sitting at home, Christmas music blasting from the TV as the two of you idly wrapped gifts. Well, mainly you were wrapping gifts as he was too busy staring at you, memorising all your little details, like how your eyelashes kissed your cheeks when you looked down, or how you pursed your lips when you were concentrating…

“Finger, please.”

“What?” Hyunjin shakes awake from his trans, watching you with shocked eyes. 

“Can you lend me a finger?” you ask with a giggle, glancing down at the little box that you're currently trying to tie a bow on. “To hold down the ribbon.”

“Uh, sure.” Hyunjin snickers, placing his index finger on said ribbon. “You should be more specific, you know. Someone might take it the wrong way.” 

“Good thing that someone could never be you.” you tell him with a roll of your eyes. “You daydream even more than usual these days.” you say, nodding thank you once the bow is done.

“Look who’s talking.” he scoffs. “Clearly, you rubbed off on me.”

“Oh, you flatter me.” you bat your eyelashes at him before you hand him the present. “This one is for your mom. I hope they can make it over on Christmas Day!” you say, but then you remember something. “Or, oh, wait. You have the company party that day, right?” you ask, trying to hide your disappointment. You probably won't spend the day together…

“Oh, that's right. I completely forgot about it.” Hyunjin lies through his teeth. He has been thinking about the company party more these days because he… “We could go together. If you want.” he plays it off, not so coolly. “It’s glitchy, Christmassy and very elegant. Everything you like.”

“Hmm… as tempting as it is, I'm not sure I have a place there.” you say with a little grimace. “I'd love to be your bumper for unwanted flirting, but… you wouldn't want your coworkers to- speculate about us.” you say pointedly. You can't deny how much you enjoy the times when people mistake you for a couple… but not in front of the people he works with day by day. It would make it even more complicated…

“Are you seriously rejecting me right now?” Hyunjin asks, clearly not expecting this answer from you. “After all these dates… you really don't want me?” he questions again, a little quieter, hurt by his own words.

Oh.

Oh.

“I- of course I do.” you say, trying to look him in the eye, but he turns away. You have to take his chin between two fingers to make him look at you. “Hyune… do you… want me?”

“Yes!” Hyunjin exclaims in frustration. “You are driving me mad! You are the sole reason I can't even begin to look at anyone else but you…” he whines. “And it took me so long to realize… heh, so embarrassing.” he says, tearing at the tinsel to distract himself.

“Hyune.” you call his name, and as he reluctantly glances up, you scoot closer and take his hands. He squeezes them and your heart leaps but you decide to be brave. “Are you going to kiss me finally?”

Hyunjin thinks he is hallucinating. “You want me to kiss you?” he asks and you nod. His heart sinks suddenly and his stomach turns into the size of a pea. “Oh.” he mutters, scooting closer too and taking your cheek in his palm. He carefully swipes a finger across your cheekbone before leaning in to plant a soft kiss on your lips.

Your stomach is filled with butterflies at his gentle kiss, and you reach up to hold the back of his head, fingers tangling with his soft hair. You lean in to kiss him again, a little braver this time and he seems to enjoy it a lot too because he melts into the kiss, into your hold.

Hyunjin finally relaxes upon realizing that this is not a dream. He pulls you onto his lap as you makeout, a slow Christmas song starts playing in the background and it really makes him re-evaluate Christmas.

“Will you date me?” he asks in a quiet and nervous whisper, butterflies erupting in his stomach. “For real this time.”

“I thought you'd never ask, pretty boy.” you giggle and kiss his forehead.

“How was I supposed to know?” he whines, tickling you. 

“You just were! I'm crazy about you, doofus.”

“You could have said that before, you know.” he huffs.

“But where's the fun in that?” you ask with a giggle before pressing one last kiss on his cheek. “Now let's finish your article together. I am in grave need of a cuddle session with my new boyfriend.”

“It will be some time for me to adjust to that name.” he chuckles with deep red cheeks and you have to kiss him again. You simply cannot resist him.

December 14th

Distracting you has been fairly easy so far. Felix has done everything that came to his mind; texting you with evening plans in the morning, organizing dinner dates whenever he could, then asking you to pick him up after work. The less time you spend on your own, the better.

As the technicalities of the Christmas party were coming in, you were most welcome to stay at the office, though. Felix made sure you knew that, and keeps reminding you that you are an irreplaceable part of the team – and he really means it.

The fact that he introduced you to his coworkers as his best friend made him a little uncomfortable, though. Because you are, you really are his soulmate, there is no question about that… but seeing random people in the office look at you as if you were up for grabs makes him restless.

“Hey, could you help me in the kitchen?” he asks you with a fake smile after you get flirted with by someone from the PR department.

“Of course, love.” You smile at him as you follow close by. The inevitable quarter life crisis seems so far – despite it happening a week ago – and it's all thanks to Felix. Not only are you preparing for your shared and most favorite holiday together, but you are spending every single minute together too.

You get to the empty kitchen together, and it being around half past 4, it's not that surprising. Most of the office is empty now, only the decorating committee and some workaholics are left. Felix spots Chan caught up in some reports and he really hopes he is okay… but he is not as concerned as he is about you.

“Are you okay?” he asks worriedly as they put down the boxes of decoration they have carried to use here.

“Yep.” You nod excitedly. “Your work place has such a nice atmosphere, I see why you like it so much.” you smile at him sweetly. “How about you?”

He feels his heart warm up as he looks at you. Dammit, he loves you so much. “I'm- okay. Yeah. I just don't want you to feel uncomfortable because of… some people.”

“I’m comfortable as long as I have you.” you explain to him, booping his nose. He is so lovely, it makes him so kissable. But you hold back, like many times before. “What is your vision here, master?”

“Jeez, don't you call me that.” he chuckles, cheeks warming up a little. “Well, I was thinking you could do the garlands on the counters and the holly between the windows. Just don't climb too high, leave that to me, yeah?”

“Do you not trust me?” you ask with a cocked brow. “Oh you wound me, Lee Yongbok.” you gasp dramatically.

“Nooooo, that's not it.” he smiles at you with the most beautiful, sunshine-like smile you've seen from anyone. “I just don't want anything to happen to you. You are so cute, what do I do if you fall off a chair?”

“Put a plaster on me. Or call an ambulance. It really depends on the fall.” you say with forced seriousness. “Nothing would happen to me, Lixie.”

“Yes, and I'll make extra sure by putting up stuff myself.” he says, gently trying to take some of the holly from you.

“You are no fun, grandpa.” you stick your tongue out at him. “But fine.” you give in cause who could resist those sweet puppy eyes?

“Good.” Felix says with a huffed chuckle. “I'm sorry, I just can't not be protective of you.” he explains as he gets on a chair to put the mistletoe up. “That's why I needed to get you away from that colleague. It's like watching someone flirt with my little sibling.” Felix says and he instantly scolds himself. Why the hell would he say that???? You are anything but a sibling to him.

“Your little sibling?” You ask coldly, completely baffled and feeling your heart shatter to millions of pieces. “So what? I'm an adult and I can flirt with whoever I want. Don't be so jealous because someone is finally interested in me.” you huff, words cold and mean with intent to hurt him back. That is if he cares at all.

“No, that's not what I meant!” Felix says quickly, fear spilling in his guts because what has he done?! “I'm so sorry, of course you can flirt with anyone but-” he cuts off, watching you with pleading eyes.

“But?” you raise your voice. “You always do this. You baby me to the point where I feel useless and incompetent!” you erupt. There is a split second of eerie silence settling between the two of you and you are fuming. All these years of pent up frustration, the realization that Felix will never see you more than just a friend all mixed in your rage.

“I’m going home.” you announce, not wanting him to stop you as you pick up your bag and leave.

Felix stands there, shocked and hurt and feeling like the ground might swallow him. He is actually hoping for the latter because the silence that surrounds him now makes him hate himself. Fuck, what has he done?

The next moment, though, someone is shuffling towards the kitchen and soon, Chan appears in your blurry vision.

“Hey,” he greets before freezing in his tracks. “Are you okay?”

“Ask Felix.” you sob and hurry your steps to the elevator.

Felix is already off the chair by the time Chan comes into the kitchen.

“Are they gone?” Felix asks in a whisper, staring at the ground in front of himself, ashamed.

“They were just heading for the elevator.” Chan says. “Why are you still here? You should go after them.” 

“What?” Felix asks, expression broken and he is about to cry. “I'm sure I am the last person they want to see right now.”

“Don’t say that. They love you, Felix, and you love them.” he shakes his head. “What happened even?” 

“I- I was just being an idiot…” Felix mutters, but he cannot shake the words Chan said. “What do you mean- they love me?”

“Dude…” Chan sighs tiredly. “It’s so obvious that the two of you are in love… what are you waiting for, seriously?” 

“They-” Felix starts but the words ignite something in him and he nods. “You are right. Thank you, hyung.” he says and he rushes past him, with one goal in mind. To catch up to you, to hug you and tell you he loves you more than anything in the world. He has to stop to get his coat on the way out, and he rushes to the bus stop.

He gets there just as the bus is leaving, with you on board.

December 23rd

Seungmin is having his day off. He asked for his holidays way in advance so he was the first to be let go on his Christmas break. He is window shopping, looking for nothing in particular but he knows he is searching for something. You are on his mind with every turn he takes on the snowy streets of Seoul. Then he finds it. There it is, sitting in the shop window, in all its glory, a huge polar bear plush, waiting for its rightful owner.

He does not hesitate a second to go into the store and purchase it for you. He hasn’t seen you since your last lunch date but he was able to score your number. You will start at JY Publishing in January and that is way too far from now to bear your absence. Maybe that’s why he is constantly thinking about you.

When he looks at happy couples on the street, walk hand in hand, your confession comes to his mind and replays on a loop over and over again. The amount of times I imagined making out in the back of the lecture hall… It makes him blush to this very moment. He wonders if he had the guts back then… if he has the guts now… what would happen? 

Before he realises he hears the dial tone beep against his ear and once it stops he is taken aback to hear your voice. 

“Hello?” you ask, and you scold yourself for sounding so eager. You haven't asked for his number in return, but when you saw the unknown number on your screen, you knew it's him.

“Hey, it’s Seungmin.” he says, his hot breath is like smoke, clutching the gift bag of the plush he got for you. “I really need to see you.” 

It makes your stomach drop. Gosh, he- wait. “I-is this work-related or…?”

“Um, no…” he says shamefully, looking down at the bear. “Is that a problem? Sorry, you probably don't want to be bothered right before Christmas.”

“No- I mean ye- wait.” you blurt out, chuckling like a little girl. “You're not bothering. I- I am happy you called.” you tell him softly. “How are you?”

“I’m- I am very good, yeah.” He chuckles, a stupid grin on his face. “Um, I’m in the city just shopping. What are you up to- and well, how are you?”

“I'm much better now.” you say and your cheeks hurt from smiling so hard. “And I also happen to be in the city… did some last minute meetups.” you say, and he doesn't respond right away. “Seungmin?” you ask, and he hums. “Why did you call me?”

“Would you like to- have dinner with me?” he asks, trying to fake confidence. It can take you far, or so he heard.

“Dinner?” you ask unsurely. “You mean, as old friends?” you can't help but add.

“No.” Seungmin says a little too firmly. “Unless you want to!” he adds hurriedly. “But more in a let's date way.”

“Oh.” you say, but it only settles a moment later. A date! Seungmin wants to date you!! “Since when are you… interested in me?” you ask with a giggle.

“Since first day of college,” he admits. “I just never had the guts to ask you out. You had all these people begging to date you, I thought why would I be the one you say yes to. My cowardice was the reason I lost you and I'm not going to let that happen again.”

“Seungmo…” you whisper, and suddenly, you could run to him, no matter where he is. “You have no idea how much I want to kiss you now.” you tell him with a little giggle.

“Are you by the Christmas tree on the square?” he asks, noticing a familiar looking figure a couple meters in front of him.

“Yes, how did you know?” you ask and when there's no response you look around. Your heart stops when you spot him, just a few steps from you, standing there with a huge present and an even bigger smile.

“Hey there, gorgeous.” he greets you through the phone before hanging up. You feel like you are suddenly the main character of a cheesy rom-com as the two of you jog towards each other. You collapse in his bear hug, burying your face in his chest as he holds you tight. “Merry Christmas.”

“Gosh, merry Christmas.” you whisper, and the way he holds you in his arms, the way his cologne engulfs you… you feel like this is where you're meant to be. “I missed you.” you say, not only meaning the past few days but rather, the past few years. You missed him tremendously, and you didn't even realize.

“I missed you too.” he sighs, pulling back to look at you. You didn't change one bit and it makes him smile. You are still as cute as he remembered. “This is for you. I couldn't resist.” he admits, handing you the gift. 

You take a peek in the gift bag and you gasp. “No! You remembered!” you giggle, your eyes filling up with tears because this man here, after all this time, still remembers your favorite animal.

“It called my name in a very creepy way.” he admits with a chuckle. “Buy me, Seungmin!”

“Oh, I see.” you nod understandingly before giving him a cheeky smile. “So, you really couldn't get me out of your head, huh?”

“Not a chance.” he shakes his head. “Would you like to get some mulled wine with me? It's pretty cold.”

“Yeah, it sounds nice.” you nod and pretend to walk ahead before stopping. “Oh, I almost forgot.” you say as you turn back, taking his hand and pulling him close for a kiss.

He lets out a surprised gasp as your lips crash against each other but soon he is kissing back, pulling you close. It really feels like you two are the main characters in a cheesy movie and it is the final happy ending that everyone was rooting for. Finally.

December 6th

Felix is buzzing with anticipation. Even though he thinks it is a little late to start organizing the Christmas party, nothing can bring his spirits down.

He has always loved Christmas, more than any other holiday around the year. He just cannot get enough of the lights, the decorations, the music, the baked goods… he himself has taken part in the preparations ever since he remembers. The holidays are a great excuse for him to shower everyone with love and his signature brownies that he never seems to be baking enough of.

After catching Jisung and his workplace sweetheart talking about joining the organizing party, he acted fast as lightning. He swears he can still feel the adrenaline pumping through his veins, even after his coffee with Seungmin in the afternoon, as he is heading home.

He can't wait to tell his best friend about this. Lately, everything seems to be just… going right for him. He got a promotion recently, his colleagues are lovely, and now, he will organize the best Christmas party known to men.

As he gets to his apartment complex, he takes the stairs by two, racing up to the third floor. Instead of taking a turn to the right, to his own front door, he turns left, knocking on the one opposite his flat. He doesn't even wait for a response before strutting in, kicking his shoes off.

“Hey, bestie! I'm home.” he greets with a giggle. “Where are you?”

“In the kitchen!” comes your answer and sure enough Felix finds you there, buttering a slice of bread next to a handful of ingredients for a sandwich. 

“Hi~” he chimes, plopping down on one barstool. He can barely contain his excitement. “You will never believe this! I am the chief organizer of the Christmas party!! And today I recruited the last two people for our committee, it's just the best day ever!”

“Oh, that’s great, Lixie. I’m happy for you.” you hum, going back to assemble your sandwich. “Do you want a sandwich?” 

“Yes please, I'm starving!” Felix says but when he doesn't get a response, he takes a better look at you. You are avoiding his eyes for sure, turning your back on him. You look small and self-conscious, and your eyes look kinda swollen too… Something is off. “Did I… say something wrong?” he asks carefully.

“No.” you say quickly with a sniffle. “No, you didn’t. Sorry. I just… well, I got fired today.” you say it simply, taking a huge sigh as you throw a slice of tomato on the bread angrily. 

Felix gasps, standing up right away to walk round the counter and pull you in a hug. “Darling… I'm so sorry.” he says, holding you in his arms and giving the warmest hug he possibly can.

“It’s okay.” you sniffle, hugging him back. “I don’t wanna bring you down! This is supposed to be the most joyous time of the year! And look at me! I’m homeless for Christmas!” you exclaim dramatically. 

“Noooo, don't say that!” Felix retorts, holding you tighter. “I will never let that happen! If it ever gets to that, you will move in with me! I live right here!” he says, looking you in the eye to make sure you understand. “And we will look for a job for you! I honestly pity your old place for losing someone as hard-working and talented as you!”

“I know! Just because someone bad-mouthed me and they didn't even listen to me!” you whine sadly. “And I already planned the Christmas party for them! They don't even deserve it.”

“Oh, that's especially cruel… they never deserved you.” Felix tells you, wiping away the few tears that rolled down your cheek. You really deserve the world… Lix wishes he could give you just that… “But hey, Christmas is about happiness, right? And we could just decorate here together!” he says and motions around in the flat. And then, he gets a better idea. “And to keep you busy, how about you help me with the company party? We could always use someone who is practiced in it! I trust your creative vision more than anyone else's!”

“Could I really?” you gasp excitedly and it looks like you’ve never known sadness. “Oh my god, Lixie, you are my own personal Christmas miracle!” you squeal, hopping into his arms and hugging him tight. “I love you so much!”

“I love you more.” Felix responds in a little whisper, his heart leaping at that but he doesn't show it. He just holds you, and he vows to himself to make this one the best Christmas ever.

December 18th

The evaluation day comes faster than Minho expected. He gets the notice in the morning that by the afternoon, he is required to finish all his assignments for the week and at 2pm, he has a meeting with the CEO. He briefly wonders if you will be there, too.

You managed to stay somewhat civil with each other. At this point, he is convinced you are his personal purgatory, sent by whatever higher deity there is, only to cause chaos and despair in his life.

“I've never seen anyone look at their fries with such hatred.” Jisung muses, taking a bite of his burger.

“What?”

“You haven't even touched it. It's good, though. If you don't want it, I'll be happy to help with it.” Jisung says with a shrug, but eagerly waits for Minho's response. He doesn't even mind that he kinda slipped up about stealing from his plate.

“You can have it.” Minho pushes it towards him. “I can't eat.”

“What, why?” Jisung asks, as if it was the craziest thing he's heard all day.

“The eval is in like 32 minutes.” he sighs. Not like he is keeping count of every minute passing. “And if I don't get the position, I'm done for. I might as well pack my things and clear my desk.”

“They wouldn't fire you.” Jisung says and he sneakily licks the ketchup off his fingers.

“Oh, they would.”

“Would not.”

“How are you so sure?” Minho asks in a mumble.

“Bro, you're seriously dense sometimes.” Jisung says, to which Minho only responds with a look. “Yeah, I know I'm the densest in the whole office, but you're, like, a pretty close second.”

“... what the hell are you talking about?”

“You will see.” Jisung says cryptically, wiggling his eyebrows. He believes in Christmas miracles.

Soon, Minho is standing in front of the CEO's office, squeezing one hand in the other and he tries to compose himself. He barely realizes that you've walked up to him.

“Are you also shitting yourself?” You ask with a nervous chuckle, hands shaking. 

Huh. “Well, if you put it so eloquently… yeah, I am.” he responds and crosses his arms on his chest. “How are you?”

“I feel dead.” you respond with a tired sigh, circles under your eyes are a permanent accessory by now. “Or rather, I feel like I’m waiting for my execution.” you correct yourself. “How about you?” 

“About the same.” Minho nods in agreement. Then, there is a moment of silence. “You did well.” he finds himself saying as he looks down at his feet.

“You did better.” you admit in defeat, looking away and folding your arms on your chest. He is annoying.

“I'd hope so.” he gives you a handsome grin, but he laughs it off. “Honesty, I have no idea. I guess we'll have to see.”

“I guess. Don't think I gave up, Lee Minho.” you scoff as you step in first to the CEO's office. “Good afternoon.”

The next fifteen minutes pass in a haze. The CEO rushes through your accomplishments, your extra work, and thanks you for your devotion. She seems completely uninterested in the topic, trying to get over it as soon as possible. You exchange a look with Minho a few times… he seems to be just as lost as you are.

And then, it's time for the CEO to announce the result of the assessment. And the winner is…

“Neither of us?” Minho asks in shock. Did he hear that right? Did she really hire someone new to fill the position?!

“But… we worked so hard for this!” you exclaim, trying hard to hide your disappointment and anger but failing. 

“I am terribly sorry, but… in light of recent events, I doubt I could make a fair decision.” she says, lifting her nose. “Given your… romantic affiliation with each other.”

The two of you are completely speechless as you leave her office and you stand side by side in the hallway.

“This fucking sucks.” you mutter. “It’s all your fault!” you accuse him immediately.

“Mine?!” Minho asks, shocked by the sudden accusation. “I was just kidding, and I didn't see you complain about it!” he says, pointing a finger in your face, and he is willing to push it even more because, well, it is kinda his fault. “Is it because you're in love with me?”

“Me?!” You gasp dramatically. “You are the one who is obsessed with me and flat out lies to our supervisor that I have feelings for you!” You scream and you two are causing a scene. Good thing no one can see in this secluded corridor. “I cannot stand you! You are such a piece of shit!”

“You never said no.” Minho says, his grin suddenly widening. He takes a step towards you and you take one back instinctively. Then another one and another one, and before you know it, you are flush against the wall, Minho basically pinning you there.

“Oh, sweetheart, are you scared of me now?” he asks, voice low and a little raspy. He can't help it, you affect him just as much as he affects you.

“I ain't scared of you.” you roll your eyes but gulp visibly. You are sure this scene played in your dream before but that ended with the two of you hooking up. That would never happen in reality.

“Oh yeah?” Minho asks with a shit-eating grin. He can barely holback… but he wants you to make the first move. “Then prove it, baby.”

“I fucking hate you.” you mutter with disgust, before you grab him by his collar and pull him in a kiss.

Minho smiles in the kiss before his hands settle on your hips and he pushes closer to you, practically pushing you up against the wall. He kisses you harder, all his pent up frustration surfacing as you make out. He groans in the kiss, then pushes his tongue past your lips. Fuck, you're so good…

You grab him by his nape as you kiss away the anger, and you melt against his lips. Maybe the reason why you have been mean to each other was because you were unable to express your attraction otherwise. It also didn't help that the two of you have been competing since your first day here. 

“So, you are into me, huh?” you ask between two kisses, hugging him close.

“You are into me.” Minho corrects and he holds you in his arms, pressing small kisses on your lips.

“What if we both agree to defeat.” you hum with a cocked brow. But deep down you tell yourself that he was the first to fall for you.

“Deal.”

To your absolute terror, the elevator door dings and someone steps out.

“Oh, shit!” Jisung says, quickly covering his eyes as if he could see anything indecent.

“It's just you.” Minho says with a sigh and you bury your face in his chest.

“A-am I bothering?” Jisung asks before he exclaims. “The promotion!! Did you get it? Did you both get it?!”

“No.” you chuckle, hugging Minho. You don't want to say it but having him is better than any promotion. “Neither of us got it.” you say instead. “Which is good, cause Minho wouldn't have been able to handle the stress.” you add cheekily. Bickering is your thing after all, it would be weird to stop once the two of you start dating.

“And you wouldn't have been able to handle me as a subordinate. You need me to spice up your life.” Minho says with a smirk, tickling your side.

“I would have liked to boss you around though.” you admit with a huge grin. Jisung keeps looking confused between the two of you. “Let’s go grab lunch? It's on Minho.” you say, intertwining your fingers.

“Yay!”

“You still boss me around.” Minho rolls his eyes but squeezes your hand. “Fine. Let's go, then.”

“Wait, I have to call- be right back!” Jisung rushes off, leaving the two of you in the hallway.

“So… does that mean you are coming to the party with me?” Minho asks with a half smile.

“We promised, didn't we?” you ask with a grin, swinging your hands between your bodies. “Aren’t we an item?” you ask with not well hidden hopefulness.

“A very expensive, annoyingly perfect one at that.” he nods before scrunching his nose and squeezing you against his side. He cannot wait to be everyone's envy at the Christmas party. You are definitely the best thing that happened to him.