Work Text:
Saturday Night 1:00 am
The elevator dings, and the doors open to the second floor of the freshmen residence building. Without glancing up from my phone, I grab the handle of my laundry tote walking out, dragging it behind me.
Saturday night meant Classified updates on Wattpad and laundry time. The routine had somehow formed a month into the semester when I realized it would be much more efficient doing laundry while I read the newest chapter to my favourite ongoing novel, instead of just lying on my bed. It was an added bonus that the second floor that held the laundry room was empty on Saturday nights. People were either at some party around campus, or couped up in their room.
Pushing down the handle with my elbow, I enter the laundry room. Settling my phone down on one of the empty washing machines that lined the wall. Opening the door, I empty out my laundry into the machine. I throw in a detergent pod. Slamming the door shut, I punch in the settings.
Hot water. Medium Load.
I swipe my laundry card, and press start. Satisfied at the rumbling sound of the machine indicating it had started, I turn around swinging myself up to sit on top of the machine. Unlocking my phone I return to the story.
The peaceful atmosphere lasts about five minutes. The door slams open and I jump from the sudden noise. Not only was I not expecting someone else to be doing laundry at this time, but I certainly wasn't expecting an angry guy barging in like he was trying to pick a fight. Correction: angry hot guy.
Hell the word hot probably didn't do it justice, but he was really good-looking. His messy brown hair is parted to reveal his forehead, and had to be styled because I refuse to believe someone could roll out of bed with hair like that. He had a strong jawline, and a well defined body from what I could make out under the Varsity Football hoodie. Not that I was trying to make out anything. Its's hardly important that he obviously worked out and had an amazing body, too. It doesn't mean anything... I try and fail to reassure myself.
My heartbeat quickens, nervously. Not only was I going to have to endure the presence of this insanely attractive guy (hopefully he'll throw in his load and leave, so it wouldn't last too long), but he looked pissed and I didn't feel like being on the receiving end of his displaced fury.
He stops in his footsteps as his eyes meet mine. I force my eyes to return to my phone.
"Sorry," he mumbles. I look up surprised. I wasn't expecting him to apologize for scaring me. I nod in acknowledgment, going back to my phone. The characters were just about to engage in a pretty risky operation from the sounds of it, and I needed to know what happened next.
"I-"
I look up at him, honestly not expecting him to talk to me longer than necessary.
"It's just I didn't expect anyone to be here. 'Cuz like who does laundry at this time on a Saturday," He continues.
I frown at his words, nodding. What the hell am I suppose to say to that? Not knowing how to respond, I just stare at me phone. I couldn't focus on the words though...
Now, I'm pretty good at holding my ground. I don't let the need for approval or validation influence my decisions. I try to stick to what I feel is right, what I want to do. However, when a hot guy comes out of nowhere and start's judging you, it makes it difficult not to feel anything. I did feel offended, but more so, I couldn't help but feel small in his presence, and perhaps just a little bit hurt.
"Shit-that came out wrong I mean, obviously I came down here too, so like um... It doesn't matter or anything..." He trails off when I didn't look up.
Although I was staring at my phone, my mind was anywhere but the words on the screen. I heard him open a machine and throw his clothes in.
Then there was silence. No beeps indicating he was starting the machine.
"Um, do you know how this thing works?" He asks. I look at him dumbfounded. He scratches his neck nervously and I try not to stare at the way his biceps bulge with the action.
"You... don't know how to use the laundry machine?" I ask, trying very hard not to smirk.
"No, I've never used it before." I raise my brow. Oh boy. I had to bite my lower lip not to laugh.
"NOT THAT I'VE NEVER DONE LAUNDRY BEFORE. I MEAN I'M NOT A DIRTY PERSON. I WEAR CLEAN CLOTHES."
I hold my hands up in truce.
"It's just that my friend usually does my laundry when he does his. So, I don't do my own laundry."
"So, then what's so special that you decided to do it today?"
He stares at me as if contemplating whether to answer or not.
"Never mind, it doesn't really matter," I offer him the out.
"I walked in on my girlfriend sleeping with my roommate." He blurts. His eyes widen, mirroring my own, as if he too, couldn't believe he had just said that to a complete stranger.
I cough to clear the tension. "Wow."
"Yeah," he chuckles humourlessly, "I had to leave the room. I figured, doing my laundry would be better than staying in that room and possibly beating the little shit into a pulp."
"Um, yeah that sucks..." He looks pained as he nods his agreement.
"So, you wanna learn how to do laundry?" He gives me a small smile, nodding his head gratefully. I get off of the machine walking over to his.
"I used hot water the first time, and it hasn't ruined my clothes yet, so I usually just keep the setting at that." I point to the button. He nods his head vigorously, paying such careful attention that people would think I was explaining the theory of quantum mechanics.
"And um I think that's about a medium size load so you press this to change it from small to medium." Again more nodding.
"And then you just swipe your laundry card, and press start. Simple. Oh wait, did you put in detergent already?"
He stares as if I was speaking an alien language. "Detergent?" He squeaks.
God, why do you have to be so damn cute.
I sigh. Heading back to my stuff, I pull out the extra laundry pod that I always brought.
"I'm the epitome of laziness, so I use these pods. They have like a pre-measured amount of detergent and all that. So you just throw it in with your clothes." I drop it into his outstretched hands. He opens the door, and throws it in.
"So like I was saying, just swipe your card, and press start." He takes out his wallet. I walk back to my seat on top of my machine.
"Hey! It won't work," he whines.
I felt like crying. I'm never going to finish this chapter.
"You're using the wrong card," I exclaim seeing the card in his hand. He frowns staring at his student ID card.
"You need a laundry card," I hold up mine to demonstrate my point.
"Okay. Where do I get one?"
I pout, knowing I would now have to accompany him to show him how to get one.
"Let's go," I say reluctantly.
--------------------------
"WHY WON'T THIS WORK?" He yells in frustration after the third time the machine declined his credit card. The poor guy looked like he was about to cry. Or worse kick the poor machine.
"First my girlfriend cheats on me, with my roommate, in MY room. Then my card won't work. What, is the building going to catch on fire next?"
"Don't jinx it. And please don't hit the poor machine."
"I wasn't going to hit it, I'm not a violent person," he whines.
I laugh, "Says the guy who was planning on beating his roommate 'to a pulp'"
"Well, he deserves it."
"I'm glad that you didn't."
He cocks his head. "Why?"
"Well, it makes you the better person. Seriously, in this case, beating him up wouldn't have done you any good other than provide some temporary satisfaction. Think about it. If you seriously like this girl, punching your roommate, who you're going to have to live with for the rest of the year may I add, will not satisfy you in the coming days. It'll probably still hurt, regardless of how you reacted tonight. At least this way your hand doesn't hurt from punching someone's face in, you won't have to face any disciplinary action for hurting someone, and you learned how to do laundry."
He laughs at the last part, and I allow a small smile to slip through since I was pleased to have somehow subdued his frustration.
"I guess you're right. But-"
"For goodness sake, just use my card for today," I say, exasperated, knowing where he was going.
Doing laundry had never felt so complicated.
"Really?" He asks, his doe-eyes going all big and sparkly.
I make an affirmative noise, already turning around and walking back so he couldn't see my smile.
—————————
"Oh my god. It's working!"
I snort. He looks so amazed it was ridiculous.
He grins. He has a set of bunny teeth, I find out, that make him look even cuter. His face looks so different when he smiles. It looks innocent, angelic almost. Unlike the fierce, pissed off guy who had stormed in earlier. "Thanks!" He passes my laundry card back to me.
I pocket it, nodding.
There was noise as he lifts himself to sit on top of the adjacent machine, next to me, but leaving enough distance for it not to feel uncomfortable.
Unlike what I expected, he doesn't say anything.
Oh? Maybe I'll be able to finish this chapter after all-
"So..."
Goddammit.
"Which faculty are you in?"
I turn off my phone, already giving up on the idea of completing the chapter with the present company. I scoot back so my back is against the wall. The boy mirrors my actions leaning against the wall too, but tilting his body to face me.
"General sciences. You?"
"Music."
"Oh really? What are you planning to major in?" What was this, I was actually making conversation? I guess it's to be expected when the guy you're talking to someone so aesthetically pleasing.
"Musical Composition."
"Huh... what do you know? My brother, Yoongi, majors in composition too."
"Wait Yoongi? As in Min Yoongi? He is a god. A composition god! He's your brother?"
I nod, with a proud smile.
"Has he always been this good?"
"He loves music. He has loved it since forever so I think that helps. He certainly has a talent for it too, but it would be a lie to say things came easily for him. He has had his own struggles that he faced and continues to face even now, but like I said he loves what he does. So, naturally he wouldn't have it any other way. It's hard, but he puts in the effort for what he loves."
He nods in understanding. His eyes twinkling with excitement.
We fall into a comfortable silence, but I don't bother pulling my phone out.
"Will you be okay?" I ask.
He seems to consider the question honestly.
"I-think so. I mean I'm still furious. I like her. Or I did. I don't even know anymore. It doesn't feel good, but at the end of the day it's her loss for losing out on all this good stuff," he proceeds to gesture down his body with both hands.
I burst out laughing and he joins in.
"That's a good attitude to have. I'm sure you're a pretty okay guy," I say calming down from my laughing fit.
"Pretty okay?" He looked insulted.
I laugh again, "Well sorry for not offering a better compliment. I've just met you. I don't know the first thing about you."
"Okay, I'll let you off the hook. But, yeah, I like to believe I'm pretty okay dude."
"Don't we all?" I murmur.
"You seem to be pretty okay yourself, little Ms. Laundry Expert."
I snort. "Thanks."
"That came out sarcastic, but I'm serious."
"Thanks?" It didn't mean anything, but I smile nonetheless.
"Let me tell you more about me, so you can compliment me properly."
"Oh my god," I said laughing at his ridiculousness.
He's something special, isn't he?
"What? My girlfriend just broke up with me. I think it qualifies for a healthy dose of compliments. My ego's wounded."
I roll my eyes, but my smile gave me away. He takes it as a sign to continue.
"Well. We should begin with the obvious," he smirks, "I know how to do laundry." I shake my head at his audacity, a wide smile on my face.
Damn, it's hard not to laugh when he's being so funny...
I knew tonight was a rarity. This was a special case that allowed our worlds to collide. He just needed a distraction, and I was available.
"Wow, I bet girls just fall all over you. I mean you can do laundry. What else could one want?"
"Exactly!" He has a goofy grin playing on his face. I roll my eyes.
"What about you? Any talents or hobbies?"
"Well I don't know if it's as exciting as being able to do laundry, but I'm a second degree black belt in Taekwondo."
His eyes widen. And could that be? Could he actually be impressed?
"Damn, I got mine when I was 14, but I haven't trained for awhile. When did you start?"
"It's been six years, I think."
"You any good?" He teases, a smirk plastered to his face. It's probably his default state.
"I'm fucking fabulous," I deadpan. I'm usually not like this, but something about him was bringing out my sass. He raises a brow, cocking his head as he looks me up and down.
"I'm sure you are."
I flip him off. He laughs, surprised.
"Awww, what? I was being serious." My eyes will probably fall out because of how much I was rolling them.
He just continues to laugh.
I realize my machine has stopped rumbling. I hop off to transfer my stuff into the dryers that line the opposite wall.
"Pay attention, pupil. I'm not going to explain this again," I glance over my shoulder to see if he was paying attention.
"You see this, this is the filter, sometimes it's filled with lint or whatever, take a paper towel or something and clean it out. If it's full your stuff won't dry with the added bonus danger of unintentionally starting a fire. Use the Hot setting, and Normal. Swipe the card and press start. Okay?"
"Okay," he gives me a thumbs up.
——————-
My fold the last of my laundry items and place it back into my tote.
I pat down my pocket ensuring I have my phone.
"Are you leaving?"
I nod to the guy. Tonight... well it hadn't been bad.
"Will you go back to your room?" I ask.
"No. I don't think I can without getting pissed again. I'll crash with one of my buds."
I nod.
"Well, goodnight then."
"Wait!"
I turn around to meet his gaze again.
"Thanks. For the laundry thing, and for like keeping me company," his voice was a quite murmur. Was he…was he shy right now?
"No problem," I give him a genuine smile.
"Goodnight!" He calls as the glass door closed behind me. I wave my goodbye, without turning around.
———————————
Riding the elevator up to my floor, I realize I didn't even get his name.
Figures... He's just a stranger after all.
———————————
Why am I taking an 8 am class? I ask myself for the millionth time as I drag myself into a seat in the second row of my Philosophy 102 lecture. I proceed to pull out my notebook and pen.
"Well, hello stranger," a cheerful voice makes me jump. I usually never talk to anyone before lecture in this class because the handful of friends I have were in my science courses, so I wasn't expecting anyone to address me.
I turn to find the attractive guy from last night taking the empty seat beside me. I frown. What is he doing here? Has he always been in this class? Huh, I can't believe I didn't notice.
But I also sit near the front and rarely looked behind me.
I give him a blank "Good morning" void of any emotion.
He laughs, "Not a morning person?"
"Is anyone?"
"I am." He states making me frown.
"Good for you."
He laughs again. "I didn't know you were taking Philosophy."
"I didn't know you were taking Philosophy." I retort.
"Fair enough."
We stop talking as the lecturer starts the lecture.
Philosophy was a pretty interactive course. Discussions and questions were always encouraged.
Despite my shy nature, I always participated. I was genuinely interested in the subject and always found the discussions that broke out engaging.
What I find stranger than my ability to be so vocal in a class, was the fact that the attractive stranger next to me was just as vocal.
Now sitting here, listening to him state his thoughts about which choice makes sense in the Newcoumb Problem, I realize his voice was familiar. He's one of the many people that speak regularly in the lectures.
As I continue to listen to his explanation about the Newcomb's problem, it dawns on me that he's right.
Well damn...
Needless to say, I'm amazed. When he puts it like that, the answer is pretty obvious, and it wasn't what I was thinking.
The professor nods once he finishes.
"Perfectly put, Jungkook was it?" He nods. Jungkook. I mull the name over. I shouldn't be so excited to discover his name, but here I am feeling elated by the small victory. He is still a stranger... I remind myself.
"Exactly, like Jungkook explained, according to the dominant principle it makes sense that you choose both boxes, but for those of you still not convinced, think about it this way..."
I listened attentively, although still a little shell shocked. I was pretty convinced what the right answer was when the premises of the problem were first explained, so to be told and explained why I (along with half the class) was wrong left my mind reeling.
The lecture was over before I knew it. Philosophy always went be fast.
Jungkook stretched his arms, yawning.
"What tired already? So much for being a morning person."
He smirked. Ignoring my jest, he asked, "What do you have next?"
"Chemistry." I began walking out of the lecture hall and he fell instep with me.
"In the Chemistry building?"
"No in the Music department. What kind of question was that?"
"Yeah, okay, I'll let you have that one, I was just making sure."
"How can you be so smart in lecture, but ask questions like that afterwards?"
He pouts, "Hey don't be mean-wait. Did you just call me smart?"
I snort, "Wow, you're a sucker for compliments aren't you? Did that help your wounded ego? Don't get to caught up in it though, I'm just stating facts. And in case it wasn't clear, I called you an idiot right after."
"You wound me, kitten. But it's fine, I know you don't mean that."
"Yeah whatever," ignoring how my heart was reacting at the nickname.
"What about after Chemistry?"
"Huh?"
"What do you have after Chem?"
"Free block."
"Great if I come pick you up at the Chemistry building in an hour, want to go for coffee?"
The sudden question catches me off guard. What was this? Not only did he decide to sit next to me lecture, but now he was asking me to grab coffee with him. What was he trying to do?
"What? No. Why?"
"I owe you, for last night. You let me borrow your laundry card, and taught me how to do laundry, and you stopped reading to keep me company." He smiled.
Damn him and his beautiful bunny smile. Why is he so cute?
I did raise my brow though, so he had noticed that I was reading and the bastard had still interrupted me.
However, if I was being completely honest I didn't really mind.
"Fine, but I'm not really a coffee person. Can we get bubble tea?"
He chuckles, "Your wish is my command."
I scoff at his cheesiness.
"I can't believe you still interrupted me when you knew I was reading."
"I was bored."
"Well, I wasn't."
"Aw, why are you so mean to me, kitten?"
"Why are you such a brat? And stop calling me kitten. It makes you sound like a pervert."
The banter continues until I reached the Chemistry building, I hadn't realized it, but he had walked me all the way there.
"You don't have class right now?" I ask.
He stops, his eyes going wide.
"Shit." He turns around, running away.
"I'll see you later!" He calls over his shoulder, failing to see me bending over laughing.
"Idiot," I murmur with a bright smile plastered to my face.
—————————
I walk out of Chemistry filled with anxiety.
Where was I supposed to wait for him? We hadn't decided on a location. I slow my steps, loitering at the front of the Chemistry building where he had walked me to.
By the time I saw Jungkook walking towards me, I had managed to convince myself there was nothing to be anxious about, we were just going to walk down to the bubble tea shop, buy some bubble tea, drink some bubble tea, and then part ways to get on with the rest of the day.
"Hi, kitten," he smiles mischievously.
"I told you not to call me that."
"I know."
"Are you serious right now. If you know then stop calling me kitten."
"But it's so fun seeing you annoyed," his cheerfulness evident on his face. I scoff.
"Let's go, the less time I have to be around you the better."
Jungkook clutches his chest dramatically, "You hurt me, kitten."
The loud groan that leaves my mouth startles the couple walking by us. They stare.
I speed up to escape from the humiliation. A chuckling Jungkook on my heels.
——————————
"Where are you going? Isn't Pearl Fever back there?" I ask as Jungkook continues to walk forward.
"We're not going to Pearl Fever."
"Why?"
"'Cuz this place is better," he says simply.
"Awwwww. How far is it? I didn't sign up for exercise," I whine, "I'm just here for the tapioca pearls."
"It'll be worth it..." his lips twitch and I knew what was coming, "...kitten."
I decide not to respond. I won't give him the satisfaction of seeing me flustered. Even though in reality, my heart lurches every time.
"There you see, we're here. And both your legs survived," he jests referring to the complaints about my legs falling off from all this walking.
"Hmph."
"Wow, you're a second degree black belt, and you can't handle a fifteen minute walk?"
"Oh please, it's because of your freakishly long legs. You should be more considerate. I was practically running to keep up with you," I huff.
"Sucks to suck."
I jab him in the side. He doubles over in surprise, clutching his side, looking betrayed.
"What the hell, kitten?"
"Sucks to suck," I mock, making my voice deeper to mimic his, and just because I'm petty as hell I add, "You have terrible reflexes for a football player."
"Oh please, I didn't know you were capable of such violence. I let my guard down," he defends.
"Uh huh. Sure."
"I did."
"I'm sure you did," I smile playfully.
"Be nice, or no bubble tea for you. I will turn around and walk right back to campus."
My eyes narrow, "You wouldn't dare. After making me walk this far. You wouldn't dare leave without getting me bubble tea."
He smirks, "Watch me."
"You're the strongest, most macho man I've seen in my life. You're the manliest amongst men, Prince Kookie," I say monotonously.
He laughs, "Kookie?"
I shrug.
"You'll do anything for bubble tea, huh? Good to know. Come on, you deserve some bubble tea."
I squeal. He looks a little surprised, but doesn't say anything with my sudden display of happiness.
He opens the door, letting me pass through before following behind me. It was a cozy shop. Chairs and tables litter the center of the floor. There were two couches facing each other on one side. There was also window seat beside the front entrance looking out the large window. Sweet melodic songs were playing in the background accompanied by a beautiful voice. Even the soft chatter from all the different conversations going on added to the cozy feel of the place.
A large chalkboard menu displayed a wide variety of not only coffee, and tea, but a great selection of bubble tea as well.
"Wow, I never new a place that served so many different types of drinks..." I marvel, eyes skimming over all the different drinks.
"Yeah, Jin hyung is a little ambitious, but somehow he's able to manage everything without fail, so I'm not complaining."
"Oh? You know the owner?"
A fond smile appears on his face, "Yeah, we go way back... So, what do you want?"
I stare up at the menu a little overwhelmed.
"Take your time, no rush," he murmurs softly.
I nod gratefully. I shift uncomfortably. I could feel his gaze on me.
"Aren't you going to pick something?"
"I already know what I want. I have the menu memorized at this point."
"Oh, okay. Hmm I think I'll get the Cookies and Cream with pearls, please."
"That's not even bubble tea."
"I know, I'm just hear for the pearls."
He shakes his head.
"Wanna grab a seat? I'll order."
I nod, walking over to an empty table for two or three towards the back where there were less people.
I stare at Jungkook's back as he stands in line to order. Then my eyes wander to the other people in the shop. The place was pretty packed, but yet it didn't feel crowded.
I have a growing suspicion the popularity of the joint has something to do with the two tall, attractive baristas behind the counter. A broad shouldered man, with pale skin, black hair, pink pouty lips was making the drinks. A smaller framed guy who looked about our age, with slightly sun-kissed skin, and sparkly eyes was taking the orders with a bright smile.
"Kookie!" The younger barista grinned, "I haven't seen you since Sunday!"
"Taetae, I've missed you so much. I just couldn't stay away any longer. How's the most handsome barista on campus doing?"
"I'm doing awesome! Thanks for asking Kookie!" The broad shoulder barista yells over his shoulder with a pleased grin.
Jungkook's laughter carries over all the conversations. A few interested heads turn to watch the exchange.
"Excuse you Jin hyung, he was clearly talking to me."
"Do you want to get fired, Taehyung?" Jin asks with a sweet smile that didn't reach his eyes.
"You wouldn't fire me, would you? We're practically brothers."
"Try me."
"Uh-What I meant to say was, you're the most handsome barista in the world, hyung." Jin smiles genuinely.
"That's what I thought. And I completely agree. I am worldwide handsome." He blows Taehyung a hand kiss. Some of the customers visibly melt.
Taehyung turns around rolling his eyes, "So what can I get you?"
Jungkook relays the orders.
"Hmm, Yoona usually gets the green tea, no?"
Even from where I was sitting, I could see Jungkook stiffen.
"It's not for Yoona. I'll explain later okay?"
Taehyung frowns, but nods putting in the order.
The order is out soon enough, and Jungkook walks back with the two drinks and a plate with a croissant sandwich.
Taking the seat across me, he pushes the drink, a straw, and the plate over to me.
"You don't want the sandwich?" I ask stabbing the plastic lid with the straw.
"Nah, I'm on a diet. Because of my weekly bubble tea runs alone I have to do an additional half an hour of cardio."
"Aw that sucks..."
"Sacrifices have to be made if I want to look this effortlessly good." He gestures down his body again. I'm reminded of Saturday night.
"Thanks for the food and drink."
"You're welcome, kitten."
———————————
"Okay you were right," I say as we're waking back to campus.
"I usually am, but what specifically are you referring to? Wait! You mean I do look effortlessly good, don't you? I knew you would fall for me eventually!"
I stare at him, trying to maintain the disgust expression.
"Were you dropped on your head as a child?" I ask.
He snorts.
"I meant you were right. It was totally worth it. The drink was amazing, but that sandwich..." I moaned in pleasure, remembering the taste.
"Told you so." I feel too content to even bother making a remark at his smugness.
Jungkook stops abruptly and I run into his back. That's a strong back...
What's wrong with me? Why's that my first response?
"Why'd you stop?"
"My roommate and my ex." He murmurs pointing to a bench across the street. A guy and a girl sitting on it. The guy had his head lowered. His hands gripping his hair. The girl had a hand on his back, rubbing soothing circles on his lower back. I turn to face Jungkook. He's staring hard across the street. His eyes glazed over. His face was set in a frown. There was something in his eyes. Anger?
I tug his arm to get his attention. He looks down to meet my eyes. His eyes still unfocused.
"Okay. Remember when I said it was a good thing you didn't beat him into a little pulp. Well that statement still holds true. I know that look. Don't fight him, please."
"I wasn't planning on fighting him." His voice sounds hallow. As if he wasn't aware of the words that were coming out of his mouth. He blinks. Something changes behind his eyes. As if a decision has been made. He looks at me. His gaze intense. My eyes widen. From the corner of my eyes I could see the girl turning to look our way.
Before I even know what's going on, there is a hand on my lower back pulling me forward, and another behind my neck. A pair of lips are crashing down onto mine with brutal force. I freeze. Hot lips burn against mine, moving in a hungry kiss.
My mind is still blank, leaving me pliant under his touch. His lips move against mine, deepening the kiss. Yet, still, I don't respond.
It feels like forever, but Jungkook pulls back his face, releasing the kiss. He stares at me. His arms still around me. His eyes widen. I see the regret fill his eyes as the realization of what he did, hits him.
My arms finally move. Coming up to rest against his chest, I push him. Hard.
He lets go, backing up. His face a mask of regret.
I turn around, walking away as fast as I possibly can without actually breaking out into a run. I hear loud footsteps. He's right on my heel. Saying things I couldn't understand.
My mind is racing. Lingering on the sensation of his lips against mine. My first kiss...
The memory of his lips is replaced by his regret filled face.
My heart hurts. It feels like something is poking at it with a sharp rod. I couldn't stop the tears from filling my eyes. Nor could I stop them from falling.
My legs carry my back to the back alley that leads to the dorm building. My mind still replaying the kiss and the face filled with regret on loop.
A hand wraps around my arm, pulling me to a stop. I come to face Jungkook, but I can't look at his face.
"Please-Wait. Listen to me." His voice cracks.
I don't look up.
"I'm so, so sorry."
A fresh wave of tears fall down my face. At this point I didn't even know why I was crying. Is it because of the insanely attractive guy that had kissed me to make his ex jealous or is it because of the instant regret for kissing me that came after?
"Please, kitten," his voice is soft, but I can hear a panic in his voice.
I pull my arm out of his grip, stepping back, "Don't call me that."
I surprise myself with how cold my voice sounds.
"I-"
"Better yet. Leave me alone."
"Wait, no. I-You-Please." He looks so frustrated that I let out a bitter laugh.
"I'm sorry." He hangs his head. He can't look at me either.
"You used me." My voice cracks at the word used.
He looks up. Expression pained.
"I-"
"All to what show off to your ex that you don't give a shit about her?"
He's shocked at the words. He shakes his head, stepping closer. I step back. I begin walking towards the residence building.
"No. No. No. I'm so sorry about what happened-"
I scoff. I swing open the door to the stairwell.. It opens slamming against the wall.
"NO. No. No. That's not what I mean. I'm sorry, not because I kissed you, but because how it happened. I do. Not. Regret kissing you."
I'm stay silent taking his words in. Mulling them over in my head.
"You don't know me well enough to know, I can't get close to people easily, but with you it was like it came naturally. I- I don't even know how to explain it. I'm a shy person. I don't talk to people outside of my circle of friends. I don't laugh easily or crack jokes. It takes me forever to warm up to someone, but not with you. You-you're so real. You say what's on your mind. I don't have to worry about you secretly judging me in your head or something. You... you're beautiful. You're funny. And I could never ever regret kissing you."
"Stop. Jungkook, just stop."
He looks hurt at seeing his words go in vain. Except that they didn't. His words shook me to the core. I look around to avoid looking at his hurt expression. We had ended up on my floor, in front of my door.
There wasn't anything I wanted more than to believe his words, but my mind kept replaying his anger at seeing his roommate and ex.
He had kissed me out of spite.
"I know we've only met, but I care for you. I-I want us to get closer. I don't want to stay away from you."
"Please, stop Jungkook."
"Kitten.."
A hysterical laugh escapes me, "You see. You haven't even asked me for my name, Jungkook. You expect me to believe, you care when you don't even care enough to know my name?"
I shove the keycard into the reader, punching in the code, to open the door to my room. I twist the handle opening the door.
I'm halfway into my room when I hear his soft voice murmur my name. I freeze. I don't turn around.
"Min Y/N," he says again, "I saw you write your name down in the corner of your notes in philosophy. I call you, kitten, because I thought it was cute. Please, Y/N. I made a mistake today, but please don't let it ruin us."
"There is no 'us', Jungkook."
I shut the door behind me.
———————————————
"Y/N?" Yoongi's low voice disrupts my thoughts. I'm lying on the black leather couch in his studio. He's turned around on his swivley chair to look at me.
I grunt in response.
"You know you can talk to me right? About anything..." I blink sluggishly. I was aware that Yoongi was really a soft marshmallow under his cold guy demeanour, but still these moments of blatant sentimentality were rare.
"I know," my voice is small.
"...even boys. If you need to, we can talk about boys."
I sit up, frowning. "What do you know?"
He raises a brow, leaning back. He smirks, "Well I didn't know it was boy trouble before, but now I do. Spill."
We lock eyes, glaring.
I sigh, finally backing down. No one, and I mean no one, beats Min Yoongi in a stare-down.
I give him the briefest possible rundown of what happened.
"He KISSED you?"
I nod timidly, not making eye contact.
"Just to make his ex jealous?"
I nod again. I look up startled when Yoongi jumps out of the chair, fists clenched.
"Name."
"Huh?"
"Give me the name of the bastard that hurt you." I shudder at the intensity with which he spoke the words.
"Yoongi? You're not serious?"
"Y/N, he can't use you, then throw you away like an object. That bastard is going to get it."
"Yoongi! Oh my god, calm down. I'm serious. Sit down, and breath."
"Y/N..."
"Please," I plead.
Reluctantly he obeys.
"And he didn't throw me away... he actually tried very hard to apologize. He tried again, everyday in Philosophy this week."
"So then why are you moping?"
"I'm not moping."
"You're moping."
I groan. "I..." I trail off not wanting to say the words as if saying them out loud will somehow will make them true.
Yoongi waits patiently.
"I think I like him," my voice barely a whisper, but Yoongi hears it loud and clear.
"You like that asshole?"
"He's not an asshole. I don't think he is. He made a mistake, and I really believe that he's sorry. He... he's just impulsive..."
"If you like him so much that you're defending him, then why don't you give it a try with him?"
I stare at my hands folded in my lap.
"I'm scared, Yoongi."
"Y/N, I don't know about this bastard, but their are good guys out there. And relationships are messy, but you can't let fear stop you from trying. If you stop trying... well that would be the real shame. If your heart is telling you to trust this guy, then maybe you should risk listening to it."
We sit there in silence.
"I should get going, it's pretty late, plus I still have to do laundry."
Yoongi nods, "Want me to walk you back?"
"No, work on your project. I don't want to interrupt your creative juices."
He rolls his eyes.
"Be safe. Don't let assholes kiss you without permission."
"Low blow, Yoongi."
He chuckles, turning back to his computer. I grab my coat.
I pause at the door.
"Yoongi..."
"Hmm?"
"Thanks."
He gives me a side glance. A small smile playing on his lips, "Anytime."
——————————-
The elevator dings, and the doors open to the second floor. Without glancing up from my phone, I grab the handle of my laundry tote walking out, dragging it behind me.
I sigh contently carrying out my laundry routine.
I lift myself onto the washing machine, turning on my phone.
Less then a minute passes, and the door bangs open.
I jump, almost dropping my phone. I close my eyes hugging it to my chest, thanking god that it didn't fall.
I look up to see a familiar pair of large-brown doe-eyes staring at me.
"Jungkook?" I stare at his panting form. He held a white bag in each of his hands.
"Y/N?" His eyes were worried. I could see his anticipation at whether I would reject his apology again.
"Y/N, please believe me, I'm sorry. I know I hurt you, and I wish I didn't care. But I do. I can't sleep properly. I can't focus. I can't breathe properly knowing you still hate me."
"I don't hate you," I say quietly.
"I know, but please forgive me this once. I won't hurt you ever again. I-wait. What? What did you say?"
I chuckle, looking down at my dangling feet.
"I don't hate you, Jungkook."
"You don't?" His voice is a whisper of disbelief.
"I'm sorry, I'm stubborn. I was scared to let you know how easily I forgave you. I-I like you."
He makes a noise like he's choking.
"Say that again," he says, his lips twitching at the beginnings of a smile despite his shocked expression.
"I'm stubborn."
"What?! No! Tell me, you like me, again."
I grin, "You like me."
He drops his bags. In two steps he's right in-front of me, standing between my dangling legs. Sitting on top of the machine, I was slightly taller than him.
"You make me crazy, kitten." His voice is low. My heart is racing upon hearing the nickname again.
He brings his hands to lay on the machine on either side of me.
His eyes are intense as they bare into mine. He gulps. I watch his Adam's Apple bob. His eyes lower to my lips.
I see him inch closer. He freezes. His eyes meet mine again. His brows furrow. I lean my head down a little closer, and that's all the confirmation he needs.
Jungkook's hands raise to rest on my waist pulling me closer. I bring my face down to meet his.
Our lips touch softly. A stark contrast to the first one. I bring my hands to cross behind the back of his neck, unconsciously bringing him closer. I could feel him smile against the kiss.
Although the kiss was not nearly as aggressive as the last, it left me breathless, and my heart pounding loudly in my chest.
He pulled apart, resting his forehead against mine.
"You're not a rebound, Y/N," he murmurs. I open my eyes, but his eyes are closed as if afraid to see how I'll react.
"I know you might doubt my feelings, we've just met and I'm already confessing, but I'm prepared to stay by you and tell you everyday until you believe me."
I feel my eyes moisten. I close the distance between our lips, pecking him on his lips.
"I'd like that." He opens his eyes finally, and seeing him so happy makes my smile broaden.
"I have something for you," He whispers.
"Oh?" I raise a brow. He grins, giving me a quick peck that leaves me as flustered as the kiss. He walks back to the two bags he dropped. He hands me one. I look inside to see two bubble teas, straws and a box with a clear opening that showed two croissant sandwiches.
"Ohmygod thank you!"
He smiles sweetly. I point to the other bag, "What's that."
His cheeks become pinker and I suddenly become wary.
He hands me the bag. I look inside and burst out laughing.
"You got me Tide Pods?" I say cracking up.
"What? I thought it was cute. It's to symbolize the first night we met!"
I grab his arm pulling him closer. I gave him a small peck. He pulls me back for a kiss. This time I'm the one smiling against the kiss.
"And to think we wouldn't be here, if you knew how to do laundry."
He laughs.
"Oh! Speaking of laundry," he smirks, "Was that your bra laying on the floor in front of the elevators?"
The smile slips off my face as I stare at him in horror.
"What?!??"
I push him away, jumping down and running into the hall. Sure enough, my black bra was laying there innocently on the floor in the middle of the floor.
I walk back, my head hanging in shame. Jungkook is bending over from laughter.
"Aww, kitten, you okay?"
"We don't speak of this. Ever."
He laughs. His arms wrap around me pulling me against him. I rest my head on his chest. I feel him place his chin on my head.
"Y/N?"
"Mmm?"
"Do you want to go out with me?"
I chuckle from the backwardness of all this.
"I'll think about it."
There's a pause then, "Do you always do laundry on Saturday nights?"
"Yeah..."
"Let's do it together from now on, Okay?"
"You already forgot how to do it, didn't you?"
He makes an embarrassed affirmative noise.
I laugh. Smiling, I murmur a "sure", knowing my Saturday nights were going to be a lot more entertaining from now on.